Hong Kong: James Lau boosts HK-UK ties Secretary for Financial Services & the Treasury James Lau continued his visit to London by attending the UK-Hong Kong Financial Dialogue 2019. He co-chaired the "UK-Hong Kong Financial Services Government Dialogue", a session of the financial dialogue, with UK Economic Secretary to the Treasury John Glen. Mr Lau said the bilateral government dialogue is an important step towards enhancing financial co-operation at the government and regulatory level between Hong Kong and the UK. He hoped both sides could build on their strong foundation for deeper partnership to pave the way for future discussions on specific technical and regulatory co-operation covering different areas in financial services. At the end of the Government Dialogue, the two sides issued an outcome statement, committing to significantly enhancing bilateral co-operation and agreeing to continue to discuss specific steps and measures to increase the breadth and depth of the partnership. The statement also recognised ongoing reforms and initiatives in relation to areas including offshore renminbi business, capital markets and banking, asset and wealth management, insurance, green finance, financial technology and the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, and welcomed continued growth and enhancements for further developments of the financial services industry on both sides. Mr Lau also met Chancellor of the Exchequer Philip Hammond, to exchange views on further financial collaboration between Hong Kong and the UK. Noting that London is a pioneer in green finance and environmental, social and governance and has a more mature green investment community, Mr Lau said he in particular looked forward to future collaboration with the UK to jointly promote green finance. He also invited the UK to send a delegation to the Climate Business Forum to be held in Hong Kong in early 2020, co-hosted by Hong Kong with the World Bank Group's International Finance Corporation. Before concluding his visit, Mr Lau visited a Fintech consultancy agency, 11:FS and welcomed the agency to expand its business to Hong Kong to tap into the vast markets of Hong Kong, Mainland China and Asia. This story has been published on: 2019-05-09. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. Kim & John Shepperd(SAN ANTONIO) -- In a unique occurrence, a brother and sister who were born with the same rare condition have both received kidneys on the same day and from the exact same donor. John Ben Shepperd, 18, and Ava Shepperd, 14, underwent surgery at University Hospital in San Antonio, Texas, on May 3. The siblings were born with cystinosis a recessive genetic disorder that impacts many parts of the body, including the eyes, muscles, brain, heart, white blood cells, thyroid and pancreas. It can also cause serious problems with the kidneys, according to the National Kidney Foundation. Parents Kim Azar Shepperd and John Shepperd called the event a miracle. "They're doing great," John Shepperd told Good Morning America Wednesday. "John Ben was released yesterday and Ava was released about an hour ago. Now they have a chance to fly because they are not tethered to the dialysis life anymore." When John Ben was born in 2000, the Shepperds were shocked to learn a year later that he had cystinosis. "Only 400 people in the country have it -- about 2,000 worldwide," Kim Azar Shepperd told GMA. "We had a perfectly healthy baby boy and the [disease] onset was about a year." "They told us that he would live for 10 years, maybe," she added. The Shepperds' daughter Ava was born in 2005. She had a 1-in-4 chance of being born with cystinosis. Over the years, John Ben's and Avas health began to decline. Their kidneys began failing and each teen underwent dialysis. Both John Ben and Ava were added to the donor wait list, though John Ben's wait was almost two years. When Kim and John Shepperd got the call that their kids would receive kidneys from the same donor and undergo surgery on the same day, the family was relieved yet surprised by the exceptional circumstances. "Obviously if a person gives both kidneys they're deceased," John Shepperd said. "The mom and dad, maybe both, had to make that decision together that their child was not going to make it but they were going to donate his or her organs. I would show [the donor's family] John Ben and Ava and say look, 'There is great good that came out of this.'" "Their child lives on," Kim Azar Shepperd said. Dr. Greg Abrahamian is surgical director of the pediatric kidney transplant program at University Transplant Center in San Antonio. He performed Ava's surgery while Dr. Danielle Fritze performed the procedure on John Ben. "Both kidneys started working immediately and by the time both were discharged both had normal kidney function," Abrahamian told GMA. "This was, I would guess, an adolescent donor," Abrahamian said, adding that the donor's liver was split and given to two other patients. "As far as I'm aware, this donor gave two kidneys, a liver and a heart." John Ben said it was "amazing" that both he and his sister received kidneys at the same time. "The biggest thing I want to come out of us telling our story is getting the word out there that organ donation is important," John Ben told GMA. Ava chimed in, "I'm really happy. I feel bad for the family, but I'm really grateful that they made the decision to save [another] life." Copyright 2019, ABC Radio. All rights reserved. Houthis conducted intense shelling at bases of government forces in Al Humegan, south-west of Al-Bayda. Among the four Yemeni soldiers killed there was a military commander. The Yemeni Defence Ministry's announcement said that the government forces backed by local tribesmen targeted the Houthi-controlled sites in Al-Bayda, killing five Houthis. * Three Yemen-based Al-Qaeda suspects were killed in a US drone raid conducted in the eastern province of Marib. The Al-Qaeda branch of the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP) has conducted several attacks against Yemeni Government forces in the eastern and southern regions. * The United Nations strives to push Houthi rebels to deploy a peace agreement reached by the internationally-recognised government in Yemen, to end the long-running civil war. Currently, Houthis control the port city of Hodeidah, while Yemeni government forces backed by Saudi Arabia have gradually regained control of the south-eastern suburbs. Meanwhile, the government forces have mobilised large reinforcements to the southern region to cope with new fighting with rebels. * The International Organisation for Migration (IOM) called for the release of over 3,000 migrants, mostly Ethiopians, who were detained under poor conditions in centres in southern Yemen. The conflict in Yemen threatens the lives of thousands of migrants, mainly from the Horn of Africa, who are now scattered throughout Yemen. [May 09, 2019] First-of-its-Kind Study Ranks Spam Detection Providers' Ability to Accurately Detect Unwanted Robocalls Global Wireless Solutions, Inc. (GWS) and Hiya today shared findings from a study that assessed how well wireless carrier spam detection solution providers (Hiya, First Orion (News - Alert) and TNS) detect unwanted robocalls. This study introduces a first-of-its-kind methodology designed by Hiya to set a new industry standard, focusing specifically on spam "identification rate" and spam "error rate," and assigning an overall "detection score" based on the combination of these two metrics. The results of this study revealed the following: Identification Rate (portion of all confirmed spam phone numbers in the dataset tested that the provider correctly classified as spam): For this study, Hiya's identification rate was 87%, First Orion's was 55% and TNS' (News - Alert) was 34%. (portion of all confirmed spam phone numbers in the dataset tested that the provider correctly classified as spam): Error Rate (portion of all calls that a provider classified as spam, that were not actually spam, i.e. false positives): For this study, Hiya's error rate was 0.25%, First Orion's was 1.26% and TNS' was 1.48%. (portion of all calls that a provider classified as spam, that were not actually spam, i.e. false positives): Detection Score (a calculation that takes the Identification Rate and the Error Rate and applies a penalty for incorrectly classifying a number as spam): The overall Detection Score for Hiya was 85 versus First Orion's at 48 and TNS' at 26. (a calculation that takes the Identification Rate and the Error Rate and applies a penalty for incorrectly classifying a number as spam): New Industry Standard for Evaluating Spam Detection Capabilities In order to provide the most scientific way of testing each spam detection provider's ability to accurately detect spam calls, Hiya developed a unique ad first-of-its-kind approach to the testing methodology. Instead of testing static "lists" of known spam numbers, they examined actual phone traffic over the course of 24 hours and leveraged the resulting set of numbers to test and determine how the providers classified each number. GWS worked with Hiya by manually verifying the number classifications that did not correlate across all three of the solution providers. A detailed explanation of the methodology and why Hiya is suggesting it as the new industry standard for testing can be found here. The Rise in Robocalls and the Importance of Accurately Detecting Spam The rise in robocalls continues to be a major issue affecting American consumers and regulators. FCC (News - Alert) Chairman Ajit Pai recently threatened regulation if US carriers don't work faster to adopt a robust call authentication system (STIR/SHAKEN) to combat illegal caller ID spoofing. A bipartisan group of senators also recently re-introduced the TRACED Act, a bill that would dramatically increase the fines faced by robocallers. The issue of accuracy and correctly identifying a call - whether wanted or unwanted - is important both to protect consumers from annoying spam and potentially harmful scams, but also so they don't miss important calls from numbers they might not otherwise recognize (schools, doctor's office, emergency services, etc.). Methodology Overview: The study was conducted in December 2018 by GWS and Hiya to compare the spam filtering capabilities of Hiya, First Orion and TNS. This study was based on an extensive list of phone numbers gathered by Hiya from a sampling of neutral network traffic instead of using a static list of known spam numbers. The preliminary tests performed by Hiya evaluated over 5,000 phone numbers to determine the caller ID classification assigned by each spam detection provider, ultimately categorizing the numbers as some form of spam or not. This "call down" process involved synchronized dialing through an automated system to multiple mobile phones with spam detection software installed and documenting the caller ID label. From the initial numbers tested, a subset of 751 numbers was identified where the three providers' caller ID label disagreed on whether the call was spam or not. Those numbers were provided to GWS to apply manual verification via online research and verification calls if needed to determine the correct classification (spam or not spam). About Global Wireless Solutions (News - Alert), Inc.: Founded in 1996 and headquartered in Dulles, Virginia, Global Wireless Solutions has set the industry standard for network benchmarking, analysis and testing. Its proprietary OneScore network ranking combines high-level network testing data with real-world network usage scenarios to make the results of testing relatable and easy to understand. Working with some of the world's largest wireless network providers, GWS offers high-quality network data and engineering analysis through a suite of benchmarking products, services and OneMeasure diagnostic apps that include drive, venue and in-building testing. At last count, GWS has driven 12 million data collection miles for its customers. For more information, visit gwsolutions.com and follow us on Twitter (News - Alert) at @gwsolutionsinc. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190509005215/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 09, 2019] CRTC seeks the participation of Canadians to test home broadband Internet speeds OTTAWA and GATINEAU, QC, May 9, 2019 /CNW/ - The CRTC and participating Internet service providers (ISPs) are seeking participants for the Measuring Broadband Canada project, which tests the speeds of home wireline broadband Internet services. Participants will receive a device, called a "Whitebox," that they will connect directly to their modem or router. The Whitebox will periodically measure broadband performance, testing a number of parameters, including download and upload speeds. The measurement tests will run when users are not actively using their Internet connection. The results will give Canadians, the CRTC and ISPs a better understanding of whether consumers of broadband services from participating ISPs are getting the advertised speeds they expect. Moreover, it will provide additional insight into network performance, including actual connection speeds. Using these results as a baseline, the CRTC will publish a comprehensive report highlighting the findings. Canadians who wish to participate can apply by completing an online form. Quote "The data collected through this project will help consumers see whether they are getting the Internet speeds that were advertised by Internet Service Providers and will also help the CRTC to better understand the performance of connection speeds in Canada. We encourage those who are interested to fill out the online form today." - Scott Hutton, CRTC Chief, Consumer, Research and Communications Quick facts The CRTC launched the Measuring Broadband Canada project in 2015 and released reports in March 2016 and September 2016 . and . The CRTC is collaborating with Internet service providers and SamKnows, a company specializing in monitoring broadband services, to carry out this project. The privacy of Canadians will be assured. No information concerning online activities will be collected. Previous reports indicated that most participating Internet service providers met or exceeded advertised speeds, with some exceptions. The CRTC works to ensure Canadians have access to reliable, affordable and high-quality communications services in both urban and rural areas across Canada. Participants from the first phase will be contacted to indicate their interest in being considered for participation in this new phase. At this stage, the participating Internet service providers's include Bell Canada , Bell Aliant, Bell MTS, Cogeco, Northwestel, Rogers, Shaw, TELUS, and Videotron. , Bell Aliant, Bell MTS, Cogeco, Northwestel, Rogers, Shaw, TELUS, and Videotron. While some providers do offer advertised speeds of 1Gbps or faster, services above 940Mbps cannot be measured with a conventional speed test. As such, speed tiers of 1Gbps or faster are excluded from the 2019 Measuring Broadband Canada project. Consumers should visit each of the participating Internet service providers's websites for details about the availability of higher or lower speed tiers. Broadband Measurement Project Learn about Internet Speed and Performance Measuring Broadband Canada CRTC initiates review of basic telecommunications services for all Canadians Communications Monitoring Report 2018 Follow us on Twitter: @CRTCeng Follow us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/crtceng Ask a question or make a complaint SOURCE Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission [May 09, 2019] SmartDV Appoints HyperSilicon Exclusive Sales Representative in China SAN JOSE, Calif., May 09, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- SmartDV Technologies , the Proven and Trusted choice for Verification intellectual property (IP), today named HyperSilicon Co. Ltd. its exclusive sales representative in China. HyperSilicon is a technical sales and support organization based in Beijing, China, with a 30-member team of IP, system-on-chip (SoC), application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) and field-programmable (FPGA) design experts. Working with SmartDV, HyperSilicon will provide sales and technical support for SmartDVs extensive portfolio of Design and Verification IP throughout China. Additionally, SmartDV and HyperSilicon will work together to integrate the SEMU desktop emulator and VeriTiger product line, a family of field programmable gate array (FPGA) prototyping solutions, with SmartDVs SimXL portfolio of Synthesizable Transactors. SimXL, a configurable, reusable plug-and-play verification solution for interfaces based on industry-standard hardware verification languages (HVLs), is used with hardware emulation or rapid prototyping tools to accelerate system-level, SoC testing. It is fully compliant with popular standards specifications, including automotive, serial us, memory, MIPI, networking, SoC interconnect fabrics, storage and video protocols. An interface based on UVM, OVM, SystemVerilog, SystemC controls SimXL. HyperSilicon is well respected and has the added advantage of desktop emulation and FPGA-based rapid prototype boards that complement our SimXL synthesizable transactors, remarks Barry Lazow, vice president of sales for SmartDV. We welcome the opportunity to work cooperatively with HyperSilicon to improve chip design validation and verification. Adds Daniel Bai, vice president of HyperSilicon: SmartDV is known for having the largest portfolio and highest quality design and verification IP solutions, along with exceptional customer support. It is destined to become a valuable resource to our design and verification community. About SmartDV SmartDV Technologies is the Proven and Trusted choice for Verification and Design IP with the best customer service from more than 250 experienced ASIC and SoC design and verification engineers. Its high-quality standard or custom protocol Verification and Design IP is compatible with all verification languages, platforms and methodologies supporting all simulation, emulation and formal verification tools used in a coverage-driven chip design verification flow. The result is Proven and Trusted Verification and Design IP used in hundreds of networking, storage, automotive, bus, MIPI and display chip projects throughout the global electronics industry. SmartDV is headquartered in Bangalore, India, with U.S. headquarters in San Jose, Calif. Visit www.Smart-DV.com to learn more. Connect with SmartDV at: Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/smartdv-technologies/about/ Twitter: @SmartDV For more information, contact: Nanette Collins Public Relations for SmartDV (617) 437-1822 [email protected] [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 09, 2019] ClioSoft Achieves TUV SUD Certification in Support of Automotive ISO 26262 Standard ClioSoft, Inc., a leader in system-on-chip (SoC) design data and intellectual property (IP) management solutions for the semiconductor design industry, today announced that it has achieved Tool Confidence Level 1 (TCL1) certification from TUV SUD, enabling automotive semiconductor manufacturers, OEMs and component suppliers to meet stringent ISO 26262 automotive functional safety requirements. To achieve certification, ClioSoft provided its designHUB IP reuse ecosystem for enterprises platform, SOS7TM design-management platform along with its Visual Design software to TUV SUD for evaluation. TUV SUD confirmed all the above-mentioned products from ClioSoft are certified for use with ASIL A through ASIL D automotive design projects. "We collaborated with TUV SUD to determine, establish and obtain a certification so that our customers could use the ClioSoft platforms for ASIL (automotive safety integrity level) A through ASIL D projects," said Srinath Ananthraman, CEO and founder of ClioSoft Inc. "Automotive semiconductor companies are under constant pressure to meet aggressive design schedules, while complying with the ISO 26262 standard. This certification will enable us to ensure design teams can collaborate efficiently across multiple sites, leverage ISO certified IPs and adopt the flows needed to deliver their tape-outs successfully in the scheduled timeframe." ClioSoft automotive customers, such as Elmos Semiconductor AG, already have been using the company's technology to manage complex SoC projects that must be ISO 26262-compliant. "Since 2014 we have been using ClioSoft's SOS7 design management platform to collaborate between designers located at multiple sites and improve the productivity of our design teams," said Dr.-Ing Thilo Schmidt, Head of Design Support Technology ad Innovation at Elmos Semiconductor. "Robustness of the data management platform is essential for us and SOS7 fulfills our expectations here. We are excited to hear about ClioSoft's work with TUV SUD to obtain TCL1 certification for SOS7, which we are using in our current and upcoming automotive designs." "Every design has unique requirements," continued Ananthraman. "Designers look for enterprise-class solutions that are configurable for their needs, easy to use, have a rich set of features, can scale to meet future needs and can be easily adopted. Our IP design management solutions addresses these needs and continues to be positively received by design team's year after year." Valens, an Israeli-based fabless company, is at the fore of revolutionizing in-vehicle connectivity. Its HDBaseT automotive solution enables long-distance, multi-Gigabit transmission and convergence of different interfaces, such as audio and video, Ethernet, USB, PCIe, controls and power over a single wire (such as unshielded twisted pair, UTP). "To develop best-in-class solutions for the automotive industry, an ISO 26262-certified design management platform is a must," said Evgeniy Makarov, CAD Manager at Valens. "Last year, we adopted ClioSoft's SOS7 design management platform, and found it to be a scalable and configurable solution that meets our requirements of minimizing network disk space usage and managing our complex design handoffs. The patented universal adapter in SOS7 also helps us to reduce the number of managed objects in our backend flow. We are very satisfied with the SOS7 design management platform and the support we have received in deploying it across all our digital, analog and mixed-signal designs." About designHUB: The designHUB platform provides a collaborative IP reuse ecosystem for enterprises. With built-in analytics and collaborative tools, designHUB not only improves IP reuse by providing an easy-to-use workflow for designers to leverage their internal resources but it also enables design teams to collaborate efficiently to develop SoCs faster. Enabling designers to be more productive, designHUB tracks and collates all activities for design projects and displays the notifications and tasks assigned in an easy review dashboard. About SOS7: ClioSoft's SOS7 design-management platform empowers single or multi-site design teams to collaborate efficiently on complex analog, digital, RF and mixed-signal designs from concept to GDSII within a secure design environment. Tight integration with EDA tools, and an emphasis on performance for data transfer, security and disk space optimization provides a cohesive environment that enables design teams to streamline the development of SoCs. SOS7 facilitates easy design handoffs between teams and mitigates the possibility of design re-spins. About ClioSoft: ClioSoft is the pioneer and leading developer of enterprise system-on-chip (SoC) design configuration and enterprise IP management solutions for the semiconductor industry. The company provides two unique platforms that enable SoC design management and IP reuse. The SOS7 platform is the only design management solution for multi-site design collaboration for all types of designs - analog, digital, RF and mixed-signal and the designHUB platform provides a collaborative IP reuse ecosystem for enterprises. ClioSoft's customers include the top 20 semiconductor companies worldwide. The company is headquartered in Fremont, CA (News - Alert) with sales offices and distributors in the United States, United Kingdom, Europe, Israel, India, China, Taiwan, Korea and Japan. All trademarks or registered trademarks mentioned in this release are the intellectual property of their respective owners. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190509005168/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 09, 2019] The Mogharebi Group Receives CoStar 2018 Power Broker Award CoStar, the largest research organization serving the commercial real estate industry, has awarded The Mogharebi Group with the 2018 CoStar Power Broker Award for the Fresno Metropolitan Area. The award recognizes professionals and firms who closed the highest transaction volume in commercial real estate deals and leads in their respective markets. The CoStar Power Broker Award program has honored the industry's elite for 19 years. This year's award goes to The Mogharebi Group, a multifamily investment banking group with offices located throughout Clifornia. "This is truly an honor and our success comes from our deep level of commitment to make sure our clients come first before any other considerations," says founder and President, Alex Mogharebi. "Hard work, honesty, and loyalty drives our firm and relationships. Combined with specialized local knowledge and our proprietary exchange platform, we provide a value proposition that is unrivaled throughout the Central Valley and California." "We are only as good as the value we deliver and the trust that emerges from our relationships. That is a core principal we live by every day. We could not have achieved this success without the partnership of our loyal and dedicated clientele," says Senior Vice President, Robin Kane. "With such an active year in commercial real estate, CoStar is proud to honor the firms and brokers who perform at the industry's highest level," said CoStar Group founder and CEO Andrew C. Florance. "These industry leaders deserve to be recognized for their hard work, expertise and superior deal-making abilities. We extend our congratulations to this year's winners on their hard-earned achievement." About The Mogharebi Group With unrivaled local knowledge throughout California, an extensive global network of top real estate investors, state of the art technology, and direct access to capital, The Mogharebi Group is the best choice to meet the needs of private investors and investment funds. For more information on The Mogharebi Group, please visit - www.Mogharebi.com View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190509005786/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] $7.5 Million Value-Add Community in Downtown Santa Ana Sold by TMG The Mogharebi Group ("TMG") has completed the sale of 5th Street Apartments, a 38-unit community that is located on East 5th Street in Santa Ana. After multiple offers, the property sold at $7,525,000. The buyer was a private investor out of Newport Beach, Calif. "Due to the Downtown Santa Ana near to the Regional Transportation Center, desirable unit mix for neighborhood integration, and proven value-add program, there was significant interest in this deal," says Mike Marcu, Senior Vice President of TMG. Mike Marcu concluded, "We aggressively marketed 5th Street Apartments in Santa Ana to our list of high net worth private as well as exchange buyers. The asset provided a solid value-add opportunity which generated substantial interest, resulting in multiple offers and closed above list price. As usual, the platform worked!" Mike Marcu and Otto Ozen of TMG represented the seller, a private investment group located in Orange (News - Alert) County and the Newport Beach based buyer. Built in 1955 and 1961, 5th Street Apartments is a two-story, 38-unit apartment community that is located on East 5th Street in Santa Ana, California. The property comprises two residential buildings measuring approximately 17,179 rentable square feet. The complex is situated on a 0.72-acre site that is composed of two separate parcels. The community features a desirable mix of spacious efficiency, studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom floor plans. The property boasts a courtyard, laundry room, leasing office, garage parking, and controlled access. ABOUT THE MOGHAREBI GROUP THE MOGHAREBI GROUP (TMG), headquartered in Costa Mesa, California, is the premier multi-family real estate services and investment firm. The company serves real estate investors and offers a broad range of integrated services including transaction and project management, investment management, 1031 Exchanges, valuation; strategic consulting, property sales. Please visit our website at www.Mogharebi.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190509005787/en/ [May 09, 2019] Leading Institutions Assemble to Shape Innovation in Healthcare Privacy BALTIMORE, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Protenus, a healthcare compliance analytics platform that uses artificial intelligence to find anomalous behavior in our nation's leading health systems, gathered representatives from top healthcare organizations, as part of the Privacy and Analytics (PANDAs) community, to discuss privacy best practices and how data analytics enables better protection of patient data and effective HIPAA compliance. The two-day event is a forum for healthcare privacy professionals to learn from peer organizations' experiences, exchange best practices and use their collective expertise to advance standards for protecting patient privacy. The first keynote, "Alexa, why do we need APIs in healthcare," was presented by Lucia Savage, chief privacy officer of Omada Health. The presentation focused on how health systems can balance advancing digital health and patient engagement while ensuring the privacy and security of patient data. Savage's presentation also highlighted best practices healthcare organizations can start using to reduce organizational risk and better protect patient privacy. Day two's keynote, "Artificial Intelligence in healthcare compliance," was presented by Erem Kazancioglu, senior data scientist of Protenus. This session was an "under the hood" look at the Protenus approach to analytics and how this approach has evolved over time to ensure healthcare privacy teams have everything they need to effectively protect their patient's most sensitive informaion. "The PANDAs community has been a great resource to our team. Having candid discussions around best practices and tackling tough challenges in privacy has been very rewarding," said David Behinfar, chief privacy officer for the University of North Carolina. "We look forward to continuing our involvement with PANDAs as the community continues to innovate the industry." "The PANDAs community will no doubt move our industry forward as it continues to encourage innovation to better protect patient privacy," stated Nick Culbertson, CEO and co-founder of Protenus. "The insight and collective wisdom represented in this community will shape the way healthcare thinks about using data analytics and artificial intelligence to support privacy teams." PANDAs took place from May 8-9, 2019, in Baltimore, Maryland. For information on the conference, use the provided link: https://www.pandasconf.com. About Protenus The Protenus healthcare compliance analytics platform uses artificial intelligence to audit every access to patient records for the nation's leading health systems. These analytics provide healthcare leaders full insight into how health data is being used and alerting privacy, security and compliance teams to inappropriate activity. Protenus helps our partner hospitals make decisions about how to better protect their data, their patients and their institutions. This year, Protenus was named the 2019 KLAS Category Leader in Patient Privacy Monitoring. In 2018, the company was named one of The Best Places to Work in Healthcare by Modern Healthcare and one of the Best Places to Work in Baltimore by the Baltimore Business Journal. Learn more at Protenus.com and follow us on Twitter @Protenus. Media Contact: Kira Caban Director, Strategic Communications [email protected] View original content:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/leading-institutions-assemble-to-shape-innovation-in-healthcare-privacy-300847421.html SOURCE Protenus [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 09, 2019] Dan Fuss Wins Outstanding Portfolio Manager at the 2019 U.S. Morningstar Awards for Investing Excellence Loomis, Sayles & Company, an affiliate of Natixis Investment Managers, is pleased to announce that Dan Fuss has been named Outstanding Portfolio Manager at the 2019 U.S. Morningstar Awards for Investing Excellence. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190509005197/en/ Dan Fuss Wins Outstanding Portfolio Manager at the ?2019 U.S. Morningstar Awards for Investing Excellence (Photo: Business Wire) Morningstar has granted annual awards to accomplished portfolio managers since 1988. The awards recognize portfolio managers, asset management firms, and up-and-coming managers who demonstrate excellent investment skill, the courage to differ from the consensus to benefit investors, and an alignment of interests with the strategies' investors. The Morningstar Awards for Investing Excellence winners are chosen based on research and in-depth qualitative evaluation by Morningstar's manager research group. Methodology for the awards is available here. "Dan Fuss pioneered the benchmark-agnostic, multisector approach to fixed-income that has defined the firm's flagship Loomis Sayles Bond (LSBDX) since 1991. During his tenure at Loomis Sayles, he's demonstrated a value-driven, often contrarian, and aggressive strategy that's contributed to an impressive long-term record for the fund and its siblings," said Alfonzo Bruno, Manager Research Analyst at Morningstar. "Fuss also deserves credit for working with firm CIO Jae Park to codify the firm's fixed-income investment process and to develop the next generation of bond investors at Loomis Sayles." "We are honored that Morningstar has selected Dan as this year's Outstanding Portfolio Manager. He's a true investment icon, but an even better individual," said Kevin Charleston, chief executive officer of Loomis Sayles. "Since joining Loomis Sayles over 40 years ago, Dan's intellectual curiosity, investment excellence, humility and unparalleled commitment to clients have shaped the ethos of our organization. As the maverick of multisector investing, he has built an impressive team with a suite of products all managed with a consistent investment philosophy and a flexible, long-term, benchmark-agnostic, value-driven approach." Dan Fuss has 61 years of experience in the investment industry and has been with Loomis, Sayles & Company since 176. He is vice chairman of the firm's Board of Directors and co-manages the firm's flagship Loomis Sayles Bond Fund-which won the 2009 Morningstar Fund Manager of the Year award in the fixed-income category-in addition to the Loomis Sayles Investment Grade Fixed Income, Strategic Income, Fixed Income, Institutional High Income and Global Allocation funds. In 2012, Dan received both the Institutional Investor Money Management Lifetime Achievement Award, and the Lipper Excellence in Investing Award. In 2013, Dan received the CFA Society of Milwaukee Lifetime Achievement Award. In 2000, he was named to the Fixed Income Analysts Society's Hall of Fame in recognition of his contributions and lifetime achievements toward the advancement of the analysis of fixed income securities and portfolios. He has twice been president of CFA Society Boston. Dan earned a BS and an MBA from Marquette University. He served in the US Navy from 1955 to 1958 and held the rank of Lieutenant. ABOUT LOOMIS SAYLES Since 1926, Loomis, Sayles & Company has helped fulfill the investment needs of institutional and mutual fund clients worldwide. The firm's performance-driven investors integrate deep proprietary research and integrated risk analysis to make informed, judicious decisions. Teams of portfolio managers, strategists, research analysts and traders collaborate to assess market sectors and identify investment opportunities wherever they may lie, within traditional asset classes or among a range of alternative investments. Loomis Sayles has the resources, foresight and the flexibility to look far and wide for value in broad and narrow markets in its commitment to deliver attractive sustainable returns for clients. This rich tradition has earned Loomis Sayles the trust and respect of clients worldwide, for whom it manages $263.5 billion** in assets (as of March 31, 2019). *Total strategy assets include all assets managed by the respective team. **Includes the assets of Loomis, Sayles & Co., LP, and Loomis Sayles Trust Company, LLC. Loomis Sayles Trust Company is a wholly owned subsidiary of Loomis, Sayles & Company, LP. ABOUT NATIXIS INVESTMENT MANAGERS Natixis Investment Managers serves financial professionals with more insightful ways to construct portfolios. Powered by the expertise of more than 20 specialized investment managers globally, we apply Active Thinking to deliver proactive solutions that help clients pursue better outcomes in all markets. Natixis ranks among the world's largest asset management firms1 ($917.1 billion/802.1 billion AUM2). Natixis Investment Managers includes all of the investment management and distribution entities affiliated with Natixis Distribution, L.P. and Natixis Investment Managers S.A. Not all offerings available in all jurisdictions. 1Cerulli Quantitative Update: Global Markets 2018 ranked Natixis Investment Managers as the 16th largest asset manager in the world based on assets under management as of December 31, 2017. 2 Net asset value as of December 31, 2018. Assets under management ("AUM"), as reported, may include notional assets, assets serviced, gross assets and other types of non-regulatory AUM. AUM does not include Vega Investment Managers, which was transferred to Natixis Wealth Management in December 2018. Before investing, consider the fund's investment objectives, risks, charges, and expenses. Please visit loomissayles.com or call (800) 225-5478 for a prospectus and a summary prospectus, if available, containing this and other information. Read it carefully. Natixis Distribution, L.P. (fund distributor, member FINRA | SIPC) and Loomis, Sayles & Company L.P. are affiliated. ABOUT THE OUTSTANDING PORTFOLIO MANAGER AWARD Each year, Morningstar recognizes an Outstanding Portfolio Manager, an individual who has produced exceptional returns over the long term. Morningstar's manager research analysts conduct in-depth qualitative analyses in order to select nominees and, subsequently, vote to determine the award winner. To qualify for the award, the manager's strategy must currently earn a Morningstar Analyst Rating of: Gold, which is a best-of-breed managed portfolio that distinguishes itself across the pillars-such as people, process, parent, performance, and price-and has garnered the analysts' highest level of conviction; or Silver, which is an offering with advantages that outweigh the disadvantages across the pillars and with sufficient level of analyst conviction to warrant a positive rating. To be eligible for the Outstanding Portfolio Manager award, managers must run investment strategies that are under Morningstar manager research analyst coverage, which includes approximately 1,800 open-end mutual funds, exchange-traded funds, separately managed accounts, or collective investment trusts, and have received a Morningstar Analyst Rating of Gold or Silver over the past 12 months. Nominees for this award have delivered strong returns for investors over their careers. Morningstar's Manager Research Group consists of various wholly owned subsidiaries of Morningstar, Inc. including, but not limited to, Morningstar Research Services LLC. Analyst Ratings are subjective in nature and should not be used as the sole basis for investment decisions. Analyst Ratings are based on Morningstar's Manager Research Group's current expectations about future events and therefore involve unknown risks and uncertainties that may cause such expectations not to occur or to differ significantly from what was expected. Analyst Ratings are not guarantees nor should they be viewed as an assessment of a fund's or a fund's or separately managed account's underlying securities' creditworthiness. This press release is for informational purposes only; references to securities or a separately managed account investment strategy in this press release should not be considered an offer or solicitation by Morningstar to buy or sell those funds. 2519149.1.1 MALR023507 View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190509005197/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 09, 2019] CIRI Alberta Announces 2019 Annual General Meeting Voting Results The Canadian Investor Relations Institute ("CIRI") Alberta Chapter is pleased to report that, at its Annual Meeting of Shareholders held on May 8, 2019, 11 nominees were elected as Chapter Executives, with Ryder McRitchie, Vice President, Capital Markets & Public Relations, Jupiter Resources Ltd., appointed as the new Chair. "On behalf of the Executive, we're excited to build on the strong platform that has been established and continue to offer programs, events and networking opportunities that enhance the professional development of our members," stated McRitchie. "I'd like to encourage all of our membership to reach out, to any of our Executive, to share your programming ideas and participate in as many of our events as you can. I believe you'll find the adage regarding a 10-fold return on what you contribute to be true." The following individuals were elected to serve as Executives of CIRI Alberta at the Annual General Meeting: Nick Kuzyk, Chief Strategy Officer & SVP, Capital Markets, High Tide Ventures Inc. Stephanie MacVicar, CPIR, Vice President, Business Development, Laurel Hill Advisory Group Dae Mann, Wakefield Communications Shauna Mason, Manager, Corporate Affairs, Bellatrix Exploration Ltd. Ryder McRitchie, Vice President, Capital Markets & Public Relations, Jupiter Resources Ltd. Ashley Nuell, Senior Analyst, Investor Relations, AltaGas Ltd. Anne Plasterer, Manager, Investor Relations, Tervita Corporation Patti Posadowski, Senior Investor Relations Advisor, Encana Corporation Odette Ries Bustin, Strategic Account Director, Cision Valerie Roberts, Senior Investor Relations Analyst, Suncor Energy Inc. Krista Severson Norlin, Senior Advisor, Investor Relations, Enerplus Corporation About CIRI CIRI is a professional, not-for-profit association of executives responsible for communication between public corporations, investors and the financial community. CIRI contributes to the transparency and integrity of the Canadian capital markets by advancing the practice of investor relations, the professional competency of its members and the stature of the profession. With close to 500 members and four Chapters across the country, CIRI is the voice of IR in Canada. For further information, please visit CIRI.org. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190509005901/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 09, 2019] TechAhead Joins One of California's Leading Chambers of Commerce in Honoring "40 Under Forty" Award Winners AGOURA HILLS, Calif., May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- From their work in everything from politics to high-tech industries, millennials (ages 23-38) are making their mark on American business and culture. The latest example of their impact was highlighted by the 5-Star Accredited Greater Conejo Valley Chamber of Commerce, headquartered in the heart of Southern California's tech corridor Westlake Village. On May 2, the Chamber hosted a gala recognition dinner and awards ceremony for "40 Under Forty." The event honors 40 young professionals who are paving the way as pioneers, connectors and most importantly advocates for the Greater Conejo Valley. The importance of advocacy in the community is not only a major goal of the Chamber, it's also built into the corporate culture of TechAhead, an industry-leading, top-rated mobile app development company. That's why TechAhead was proud to be a Silver Sponsor of the 2019 "40 Under Forty" Awards. "This year's award winners were truly impressive," said Vikas Kaushik, TechAhead's CEO. "They included a variety of people representing people from almost every aspect of business and profession. We honored some up-and-coming young doctors, like Amber Coleman, M.D., a local anesthesiologist, and Nimira Alibhoy, who specializes in an innovative form of upper cervical chiropractic techniques. We recognized some passionate people from the non-profit community, such as Lauren Shaffer for her work with Conejo Community Outreach, a group that strives to make sure everyone in the community is appropriately clothed and fed. We also put the spotlight on some of our local law enforcement and fire department professionals, well represented by Mackenzie Spears from the Ventura County Sheriff's Office and Weston Valdillez from the Ventura County Fire Department. We even honored some people who really got our attention, like Manny Bujold, a 13-time Sport Karate World Champion." The Master of Ceremonies at the gala was quite fittingly a former "40 Under Forty" honoree himself California State Senator Henry Stern, who represents Senate District 27. He called each honoree to the stage at the spacious Canyon Club in Agoura Hills, while over 300 attendees applauded heartily for the young men and women the millennials who are setting out to make the world a better place. TechAhead wishes them well in their endeavors! About TechAhead TechAhead is an industry leading, top-rated mobile app development company that helps businesses thrive in the digital world. TechAhead's industry and technology experts have decades of combined experience in mobile consulting, design and app development, as well as ongoing upgrades and maintenance, allowing them to specialize in creating digital form factors and mobile app experiences that are secure, scalable and intuitive enough to make life better. TechAhead, established in 2009, has been recognized as one of the top 100 Asian startups by Red Herring, and for the second year in a row as one of the top 10 Global Mobile Development Companies by Clutch, an independent US based research company. With offices in southern California and New Delhi, India, TechAhead boasts a strong, smart and dedicated team of over 150 mobile mavericks. 28720 Roadside Drive, STE 254 Agoura Hills, CA 91301 (818) 318-0727 www.techaheadcorp.com View original content to download multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/techahead-joins-one-of-californias-leading-chambers-of-commerce-in-honoring-40-under-forty-award-winners-300847724.html SOURCE TechAhead [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 09, 2019] Schulte Roth & Zabel Presents Its 7th Annual Private Equity Fund Conference Schulte Roth & Zabel (SRZ) is hosting its 7th Annual Private Equity Fund Conference today in New York. With a market-leading funds group, SRZ advises many of the most prominent firms in the private equity space. The conference will cover the "State of the Industry," "GP/LP Perspectives" and "Dealing with Conflicts." The event is by invitation only. Headlining the event are SRZ lawyers Stephanie Breslow, Marc Elovitz, David Miller, David Nissenbaum, Omoz Osayimwese, David Passey, Phyllis Schwartz and Joseph Smith. They will discuss the following specific topics: key issues on terms; considerations when negotiating fund agreements; tax updates; conflicts of interest involving a fund's operations; and regulatory and compliance risks, among others. "Conflicts of interest and evolution of market terms for private equity funds are just a few of the many issues we will address at today's conference," commented Ms. Breslow, co-head of SRZ's Investment Management Group. "Private equity funds are also seeing new opportunities. The types of strategies pursued by private equity sponsors are expanding, including increased activity in the credit fund space," added Mr. Smith. "We are pleased to present our 7th Annual Private Equity Fund Conference, featuring some of the most experienced private equity lawyers in the idustry," commented Alan Waldenberg, chair of SRZ's Executive Committee. SRZ is recognized as the preeminent law firm for private investment funds. The lawyers advise private equity firms on every aspect of running their businesses, spanning a wide variety of investment strategies. The firm counsels on the structuring of funds and formation of management entities, the representation in negotiations with investors and representation in connection with their transactions. SRZ's dedicated regulatory and compliance practice is highly regarded for its great depth and is one of the largest teams in the industry. Renowned for their thought leadership in this area, SRZ partners authored the key industry treatise Private Equity Funds: Formation (News - Alert) and Operation (Practising Law Institute). About Schulte Roth & Zabel Schulte Roth & Zabel LLP (www.srz.com) is a full-service law firm with offices in New York, Washington, DC and London. As one of the leading law firms serving the financial services industry, the firm regularly advises clients on corporate and transactional matters and provides counsel on regulatory, compliance, enforcement and investigative issues. The firm's practices include: bank regulatory; bankruptcy & creditors' rights litigation; blockchain technology & digital assets; broker-dealer regulatory & enforcement; business reorganization; complex commercial litigation; cybersecurity; distressed debt & claims trading; distressed investing; education law; employment & employee benefits; energy; environmental; finance; financial institutions; hedge funds; individual client services; insurance; intellectual property, sourcing & technology; investment management; litigation; litigation finance; mergers & acquisitions; PIPEs; private equity; real estate; real estate capital markets & REITs; real estate litigation; regulated funds; regulatory & compliance; securities & capital markets; securities enforcement; securities litigation; securitization; shareholder activism; structured finance & derivatives; tax; and white collar defense & government investigations. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190509006020/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 09, 2019] Herbalmax invests in education with Healthy Science Blog IRVINE, Calif., May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Herbalmax Inc. is delighted to launch its latest health education initiative, the Healthy Science Blog. After a recent successful company rebrand, Herbalmax has set its sights on becoming the information hub for consumers wanting to learn more about plant-based nutraceuticals, and with the release of their newly designed, user-friendly website launching soon, Herbalmax is positioned as a trusted, science-centered front-runner in a crowded and often confusing nutraceutical market. "We approach health and human wellness with vigorous curiosity that is slightly obsessive. Our scientists are meticulous in the research, design and manufacture of safe, proprietary products of unsurpassed quality, while keeping the customer firmly at the center of their focus," vaunts Lynda Bateman, Herbalmax Director of Media. One of the goals of the Herbalmax blog is to build a key-word search engine for quick reference within a go-to information center for the consumer with well-written, easily accessible articles on health and well-being, industry news, and the latest scientific breakthroughs. "Our articles are fact-based, content-heavy, yet easy to read, which makes them perfect for prominent media like the San Francisco Chronicle, ouston Chronicle, the Connecticut Post and the Seattle Post-Intelligencer. Additionally, we have appeared on NBC affiliates, the New Jersey Star Ledger, The OC Register and the respected and trending online magazine, The Ageist," notes Bateman. The Company has redefined what it means to be clear and informational in an often purposefully dense supplement marketplace and believes an "industry library" for the purposes of educating the public about nutraceuticals puts real science directly in front of the consumer looking for answers to health questions. Bateman adds, "We are thinking ahead to even more user-available mediums including a monthly Healthy Science Newsletter, a comprehensive free info-series on nutraceuticals, and a downloadable, Healthy Science Podcast." As an established and trusted firm in the health industry for 20 years, Herbalmax is confident that an information-based narrative will empower the consumer and reflect the core values of the company. Dr. Mohamed Shaharuzzaman, Ph. D., a Senior Scientist at Herbalmax Inc. is one of the driving forces behind the new approach. "As a scientist, it is my job to base everything I do on facts to produce the best product. That ethos resonates very well as a company core value and continues to be our central message going forward." For more information about this press release: Lynda Bateman Media Relations Herbalmax Inc. Email: [email protected] website: https://www.herbalmax.com https://blog.herbalmax.com/ Related Links: Like us on Facebook Follow us on Twitter Follow us on LinkedIn View original content to download multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/herbalmax-invests-in-education-with-healthy-science-blog-300847792.html SOURCE Herbalmax [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] Google this week announced the Pixel 3a, a $399 phone with most (but not all) of the features of last year's flagship Google smartphone, the $799 Pixel 3. While this move definitely puts some pressure on Samsung and Apple, who continue to reap most of the profits in the smartphone market, it's not likely to end the era of the premium smartphone. The case for the Pixel 3a... There's a lot to applaud about the Pixel 3a. Many consumers have resisted the new super-premium class of smartphones of the last few years as Samsung and Apple pushed prices into four figures. That happened just as U.S, carriers phased out the subsidies that once cut the sticker price by rolling much of the cost of a phones into your monthly bill. Let's also admit that the pace of smartphone innovation has slowed quite a bit in the past few years. Yes, there are still incremental improvements every year, but it's not like the early days of the iPhone, when buying on a two-year contract meant you would miss out on enormous strides forward while you waited for the clock to run out. While the U.S. smartphone market has never really embraced the mid-priced phone it generally is divided between value seekers and those willing to pay for a premium experience if anyone can push consumers into that space, it's Google. The Pixel 3a and Pixel 3a XL Google's phone hardware is consistently good, and using stock Android is a superior experience to wading through the add-ons that burden devices from other phone makers. Google is also a strong, recognizable and positively viewed brand, and the fact that it's the platform owner of record adds some extra credibility. ... And the case against That said, I cant get past how the Pixel 3a is a "tweener" neither a bargain nor a premium device in a category that has been repeatedly rejected in the United States. People want to get a cheap phone or they want a high-end Samsung or Apple device. Google's previous Pixels have been premium phones, flagships that show off the best of Android, while this is a half-masted flagship flying the flag of savings. It's a little awkward. People want to get a cheap phone or they want a high-end Samsung or Apple device. Also, the lengthening of the smartphone buying cycle thanks to that slowing pace of innovation and the increase in premium phone prices actually works against Google. If you're keeping your phone for three or more years, do you want to buy a mid-priced version of last year's hotness? Or do you want to spend more on the cutting edge with the confidence that what you buy will still be a good phone in a few years? There's also a problem with the premise that Google is taking on the $749 iPhone XR with this $399 phone. The 6.1-inch iPhone XR is a larger phone more analogous to the $479 Pixel 3a XL, with its 6-inch screen. If you want a larger model, the price gap between the entry-level phones of Google and Apple has already narrowed. Also, Apple will try very hard to avoid selling you an iPhone XR for full price: The company offers aggressive iPhone XR deals via trade-ins of existing phones, closing the gap between mid-range and premium even further. iPhone XR Then there's Google's track record as a seller of smartphones. Put bluntly, these are phones that are appreciated by tech journalists and smartphone nerds, but not many others, for the reasons I've already mentioned here. They're good phones that almost nobody buys. Google's share of the smartphone market is in the low single digits. Is that going to change now? Never say never, but this has proven to be a tough nut for Google to crack, and Apple and Samsung have shown plenty of ability to stay on top of the pack. The power of the premium phone Much of the discussion about the Pixel 3a is (understandably) to juxtapose it with Apple's ratcheting-up of iPhone prices over the past few years, but it's going to be hard for Google to convince an iPhone user to jump ship to an entirely new platform. Samsung is probably a bigger target, but it has spent years investing in its own micro-ecosystem inside of Android for this very reason. Even leaving Samsung for a competitor requires a leap of faith that many consumers aren't willing to make, or even interested in making. Brand loyalty is real. Apple wants customers who are willing to pay. That's its whole strategy. Finally, for anyone hoping that Google's entry into the mid-range means that Apple will respond with a mid-priced iPhone, like a remix of its old iPhone SE don't hold your breath. As an iPhone SE fan, I'd love to see it, but Apple has gotten where it is today by cranking up revenue and prices and taking an enormous share of the overall profits of the smartphone market. That said, Apple's shift to boosting services revenue offers some hope to people hoping for lower-priced iPhones. As the value of keeping customers in the Apple ecosystem grows, Apple's reliance on device revenue can be tempered with the knowledge that each customer will provide Apple an ongoing revenue stream. Still, a case can be made that someone who will only pay $399 for a smartphone is also going to generate less services revenue than someone who pays $999. In the end, Apple wants customers who are willing to pay. That's its whole strategy. The only way that will change is if, somehow, the Pixel 3a can transform the smartphone market by draining sales away from Samsung and Apple, forcing those companies to react. As cool a product as the Pixel 3a is, Google's track record suggests that development is highly unlikely. Credits: Tom's Guide (Image credit: Shutterstock) Before U.S. President Donald Trump announced new 25% tariffs on virtually all goods imported from China on Sunday, the Chinese government was planning to backtrack on all of its previously made commitments to the U.S. government, according to a Reuters report today. China First to Backtrack On Previous Trade Commitments According to U.S. government and private sector sources, China was already planning on backtracking on some important commitments it had previously made to the U.S. government before arriving for the new trade negotiations with the U.S. government. The diplomatic cable from China arrived in the U.S. on Friday with many edits to the 150-page draft trade agreement that would have eliminated all the trade progress the two countries made since last year. China had previously committed to ending U.S. IP theft, as well as ending the practice of forcing technology transfers on U.S. companies that want to do business in China via mandatory 50-50 joint ventures or through other means. China Would Continue IP Theft, Forced Tech Transfers According to Reuters sources, China has made reversals to its previous commitments in each of the seven chapters of the trade agreement, and it seems it's no longer willing to resolve the complaints over which the U.S. government started the trade war in the first place. These complaints include: preventing intellectual property and trade secrets theft, ending of forced technology transfer for U.S. companies that want to do business in China, improvements to competition policy, access to financial services and an ending to currency manipulation. President Trump tweeted on Sunday that he would raise the tariffs on $200 billion worth of goods (including electronics) to 25% from the current 10% and may add the 25% tariffs to an additional $325 billion worth of goods. All of this, plus the already existing 25% tariff on another $50 billion worth of goods means that almost all of the $540 billion worth of goods being imported from China will have a 25% tariff imposed on them, as soon as this Friday, when the new tariffs will go into effect. Celebrate Kansas City Union Station Instagram Trap Coming Soon Poetry in motion in front of Union Station KANSAS CITY, MO (KCTV) -- Streamers made of holographic film are designed to shed wind instead of catching it. Soon, thousands of the streamers attached to a thin net will sway in Kansas City. As the finishing touches are added to Reflecting Motion, it's clear the 12,000 square foot art installation is intricately designed to capture what nature creates. Kansas City Old School Veggie Freebies Low income seniors could be eligible for free food at the Farmers Market Kansas City, MO - Cultivate KC is assisting the Missouri Department of Agriculture with the launch of the Missouri Senior Farmers' Market Nutrition Program. Program Manager, Kathleen Foster says those who qualify will receive $60 in vouchers to use on fresh produce at the farmers market. Funny Man Good Deeds Popular KC comedian celebrates birthday buying lunch for others A popular Kansas City comedian celebrated his birthday Wednesday by buying lunch for others.Elliott Threatt bought lunch for 57 people on his 57th birthday.Instead of hosting a party, Threatt said he wanted to show gratitude to Kansas City for what he calls a blessed life and successful career."I'm Kansas City born and raised. KCK Lesson In Winning Flooding The Engines Slow recovery from March flooding delays Lakeside Speedway's season Hide Transcript Show Transcript SPEEDWAY IN KANSAS CITY, KANSAS, CAN'T SEEM TO CATCH A BREAK. >> THE REVVING OF ENGINES IS REPLACED BY THE REVVING OF WATER PUMPS. >> TODAY WE'RE CONTINUING TO PUMP AND IT'S AN EVERYDAY PROCESS. >> PETE HOWIE HAS GONE FROM MANAGING A RACETRACK TO MANAGING EXTENSIVE FLOOD DAMAGE. Local Vet Well Remembered Decades long journey to identify KC veteran's remains PRAIRIE VILLAGE, KS (KCTV) -- Ted Hall's nieces never met him but have heard his story passed down from their parents. "It is something that was always in our family," Barb Wells, who is Hall's niece, said. "It was very hard on all the family," Trudy Hall, who is also Hall's niece, said. Doggie-style Journalism ADOPT HER: Help Rey find her forever home This week, we had the chance to meet "Rey" - a sweet 2-year-old pup who lives at Wayside Waifs right now. Rey is house trained and can sit and shake on dem... Pop Old School Backstory 20 Years After "No Scrubs," We Look Back at the Song's Best (and Worst) Covers Photo by Jeff Kravitz/FilmMagic, Inc via Getty Images Two decades after "No Scrubs" first topped the charts, reaching No. 1 on April 10, 1999 and staying there for four consecutive weeks, you'd be hard-pressed to find anyone of a certain generation (hint: rhymes with "schmillennial") who doesn't feel compelled to sing along when they hear TLC's era-defining kiss-off to scrubs and busters. Kansas City Invented Worst Day Of The Year For Embattled Restaurant Servers IN FOCUS: Hallmark has a special connection with Mother's Day There are just four more days until Mother's Day, and one of the holiday's biggest traditions can be traced back to a company right here in Kansas City. To start thiswe celebrate the an old school at classic cars on surprisinglyAnd right now, here are the news items we're checking:is the #TBT song of the day and this is thefor right now . . . KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- More than a dozen frustrated Kansas Citians told a joint city council committee Wednesday to do something to improve the city's trash collection. They support a proposal for the city to take over all trash pickup. Council members have been debating how best to improve the quality of the city's trash service. Overland Park City officials will be considering a multi-mural art project for downtown The proposed artworks has sparked a community discussion about whether the images best represent the community. Remember that suburbanites were. Now this golden ghetto enclave plans to expand their expression of civic pride. Checkit: When Toyota released the new fifth-generation A90 Supra at the 2019 Detroit Auto Show, I wasnt terribly impressed by its styling, saying that it looked like a dumbed-down, bastardized version of the FT-1 concept upon which it was based. And I still think thats true - the FT-1 is an amazing piece of design, and the production A90 Supra cant live up to the standard it sets. However, after spending some one-on-one time with the A90 in Virginia (courtesy of Toyota), Im starting to come around. After spending several hours with it, Im finding it more and more attractive First Impressions When I first saw the production-ready 2020 Toyota Supra, one thing in particular stood out to me - the nose. I didnt like it. It looked strange to me. I didnt like the V-shaped upper portion, or the twin lower air blades below. I think it looked pinched and faux-functional. Granted, it was an upgrade over Toyotas traditional gaping maw, but it still didnt sit well with me all the same. For the most part, I didnt mind the rest of it, though. I thought the profiles cab-back proportions were spot on, with the large fenders rolling across the side of the car made some big performance promises. The double-bubble roof and window line played a solid counterpoint. However, I thought some of the vents seemed a bit tacky and unnecessary, as did some of the lower character lines. At the same time, I thought the rear end looked pretty good thanks to its cool duck bill spoiler providing a fitting endpoint for the sculpted roof. The downward sloping vents coming off the taillights looked a bit weird, but the large diffuser made up for it. So then, when it was first released, I wasnt the biggest fan of the 2020 Supras styling, especially up front. However, I think a lot of that has to do with how the design looks in pictures, as opposed to how it looks in person. 2020 Toyota Supra exterior dimensions Wheelbase: 97.2 inches Overall Length: 172.5 inches Overall Width: 73 inches Overall Height: 50.9 inches Pictures Dont Do It Justice One thing is very clear - the 2020 Toyota Supra employs a variety of big, bold styling elements. There cuts are deep cuts, the character lines are dramatic, the fenders are enormous. Standing still, it seems to shout at you. However, in person, it starts to make sense. Walking around it, the new Supras design will flow together, with the eye going from one bit to the next, rather than getting hung up on any particular section like it can with a picture. Once the Supra gets moving, things get even better. Suddenly, all those vents and creases make sense. The huge wheels fill the arches well, adding even more motion to the thing. Suddenly, the sculpted by the air motif starts to click. 2020 Toyota Supra interior dimensions Seating Capacity: 2 Headroom: 38.3 inches Legroom: 42.2 inches Shoulder Room: 54.4 inches Passenger Volume: 50.9 cu-ft What Do I Think Now? After spending a whole day driving it, looking at it, taking pictures of it, and filming it, I think the 2020 Toyota Supras design is starting to grow on me. That front end is still a little, well, nosey, but its not nearly as big and obtrusive in person. And I like the rest of it even more. The profile in particular really grabs my eyeballs. That shouldnt be surprising, though. Ive long been a proponent of controversial styling over the plain-Jane and mundane. And that fits well with Toyotas latest habits, too. In 2017, President Akio Toyoda declared that Toyota would produce no more boring cars, and that extends to its design work. One look at the latest Toyota Avalon, or Toyota Corolla hatchback, or even the Toyota Prius will confirm that. Say what you will about the horsepower or driving experience these vehicles provide - theyre certainly not boring to look at. Its funny, because something something similar happened when I drove the Toyota 86. Back in 2017, I wrote: After spending an afternoon with the car, the look has grown on me. Theres more character than can be found on the outgoing model, and I can appreciate the changes as adding a little extra spice to an otherwise unassuming design. Theres one more part to it - the size. The 2020 Toyota Supra is surprisingly small in person, and while the curvaceous exterior might seem a bit garish in pictures, it starts to make sense when you see it play out with your own two eyes. What do you think, dear reader? Do you like the Supras styling, or do you think it needs a do-over? Let us know in the comments section, and make sure to stay tuned, as well be covering the 2020 Toyota Supra all week, culminating in a full driven review on Sunday! 2020 Toyota Supra drivetrain specifications Engine 3.0-liter twin-scroll turbo six Horsepower 335 HP Torque 365 LB-FT Transmission 8-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters 0 to 60 mph 4.1 seconds Top Speed 155 mph Further Reading The 2020 Toyota Supra Is Surprisingly Small In Person Read our review of the 2020 Toyota Supra How Much BMW DNA Can Be Found In The 2020 Toyota Supra? 14 Little-Know Facts About The 2020 Toyota Supra A90 Convertible Top Can be Stowed in 10 Seconds Read our full review on the 2019 BMW Z4. As part of its Toll Collection System Modernization Strategy, the Ohio Turnpike and Infrastructure Commission (OTIC) has selected TransCore to design and implement its next generation Customer Service Center (CSC) system. With over 25 years of experience designing back office software for tolling systems, TransCore has installed 39 back office systems worldwide and securely processes more than one billion back office transactions each year. The Tennessee-based company began its long-standing relationship with the Ohio Turnpike in 1975, providing critical maintenance, communication, and toll information systems. Today, in addition to developing the new Customer Service Center system, TransCore will continue to provide OTIC with its statewide toll collection system and customer service maintenance services. As part of the agencys modernization and upgrade program, the new CSC system will enhance the customer experience by offering multi-faceted communications and trusted data security along the 241 miles (388km) long Ohio Turnpike, while also providing the flexibility to support future technology advances. 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The Integrity platforms advanced technology significantly improves all phases of customer management from transponder purchase and maintenance of accounts to transparent financial management and payment processing. The Integrity platforms design reduces operational costs and enhances the end users experience through an efficiently designed graphical user interface for account management, toll-by-plate image review, and financial accounting functionality. The Integrity back-office system features: Fully Integrated Accounting, with a feature-rich, comprehensive accounting module that is a proven tool to accurately record and present a toll systems financial picture at any point in time; Dynamic Business Rules, with a configuration module that allows agencies to readily modify anything from toll rate structures to account types without programming or code changes. The integrated Rule Manager enables complex business rule modifications to be made in less than a week, rather than months; Business Intelligence through a robust, responsive, and accurate reporting system, that offers up-to-date operational information, which is readily available for monitoring and analysis, to optimize efficiencies, and ensure customer service is continually refined. For over 40 years, we have had the distinct honor of partnering with the Ohio Turnpike and Infrastructure Commission in deploying best-in-class tolling services, said TransCore vice president and northeast region managing director, Sean Persaud. We are excited to embark on this new, customer-focused initiative that will provide innovative, adaptable, and sustainable support and services to the people and businesses of Ohio. Engaging Civil Society in Regional Integration for Africas Economic Prosperity Deeper engagement with civil society on development projects has resulted in acceptance of projects by communities and greater regional integration, but the pace must move faster, participants gathered for the opening of the African Development Bankss Civil Society Forum heard Monday. In her welcome remarks, Jennifer Blanke, Vice President Agriculture, Human and Social Development Complex said the Bank was working with governments and the African Union to build the critical infrastructure for a faster realization of integration goals, beginning 2025. Blanke who chairs the African Development Bank-Civil society committee, said Africa will benefit from its power and strong workforce only through increased trade among itself, adding that this would ensure transformation and job creation. The 10th anniversary of the Banks Civil Society Forum took place at the Banks Abidjan headquarters and was attended by representatives of civil society from across the continent. The three-day forum covered topics such as engaging youth civil society to accelerate regional integration, innovative approaches for accelerating integration and leveraging the strength of civil society. Blanke said the Banks engagement with civil society formed a crucial part of its policy making process and outcomes of the forum will be integrated in an action plan to boost intra African trade from the current low level of 15 percent. But while there have been some milestones under the plan, challenges remain, mostly due to political interest of member states, the forum heard. We must transcend big politics and begin to build in Africans a sense of belonging... The African civil society is ready to play its role. More than ever before, it is capable of tackling most of the many challenges facing this continent. Over the last decades, the African Civil Society landscape has undergone tremendous transformation and is rich in experience and expertise. Use us. Use us well beyond consultative roles, remarked Augustine Njamnshi, Vice-Chair of the African Development Banks Civil Society Committee. The Banks director for Regional integration Moono Muputola said civil society engagement has facilitated safer trade across borders for women. In March 2018, the Bank approved the pdf Regional Integration Strategic Framework (2.10 MB) with three key pillars: Infrastructure Connectivity, Trade and Investment and Financial Integration. It has granted $4.8 million to the African Union to help establish the secretariat and supporting programs. The 54-state continent with a population of 1 billion people and a combined GDP of over $3.4 trillion, has outlined plans for regional integration and trade to provide huge opportunities for its entrepreneurs and producers. In renewed efforts to boost trade relations, the African Union in March 2018 launched an African Continental Free Trade Agreement estimated at $3 trillion. Some 44 countries signed up to the deal, while others, including the most populous nation Nigeria, have yet to subscribe to it. Regional integration is one of the Banks High 5 strategic objectives, linked closely to other priorities to foster the required economic transformation on the continent through the free movement of goods, services, people, capital, energy, and knowledge across borders. Nigers former Minister for Privatization Alma Oumarou who spoke during a panel session after the opening ceremony said a united continent would be stronger at negotiations with external trade partners such as the European Union. The recent UN biodiversity report states that overfishing is a bigger threat to the world's ocean than plastic or acidification. Few images have filled me with as much dread as the one in George Monbiot's most recent column. It depicts a grim reaper below the sea, the blade of its scythe a ship floating on the surface. "Stop eating fish. Its the only way to save the life in our seas," reads the title. Monbiot proceeds to describe the horrific situation that's playing out underwater. There, according to the latest UN report on biodiversity, life is collapsing faster than on land, and the cause is "not pollution, not climate breakdown, not even the acidification of the ocean. It is fishing." The way in which the oceans are fished is destroying them completely. This is due in part to technology that allows fishers to remove far more than can ever be replenished and that ruins whole ecosystems in the process, though processes like dredging; it's also caused by lax regulations and non-existent or toothless oversight. Our "bucolic fantasy" of what fishing is must be revised. Monbiot writes that 29 percent of the UK's fishing quota is owned by five families, and a single Dutch company with a vast fleet owns another 24 percent. Small boats "comprise 79 percent of the fleet, but are entitled to catch just 2 percent of the fish." He goes on: "The same applies worldwide: huge ships from rich nations mop up the fish surrounding poor nations, depriving hundreds of millions of their major source of protein, while wiping out sharks, tuna, turtles, albatrosses, dolphins and much of the rest of the life of the seas. Coastal fish farming has even greater impacts, as fish and prawns are often fed on entire marine ecosystems: indiscriminate trawlers dredge up everything and mash it into fishmeal." Lloyd Alter Seafood at a market in Portugal Claims that the waters are safeguarded are bogus. Monbiot calls marine protected areas "a total farce: their only purpose is to con the public into believing that something is being done." While fishers are legally obligated to comply with quotas, avoid no-take zones, and not overfish, there is no legal requirement for monitoring equipment to be installed on board something that could be done across the entire UK fleet for a mere 5 million (not much, considering what it would do). Marine oceanographer Sylvia Earle put seafood consumption into perspective in a TED article in 2014. She argues that it's time to think of fish as more than an edible commodity. They play a crucial role in the ecosystem that outweighs their value as food. "Theyre part of the systems that make the planet function in our favor, and we should be protecting them because of their importance to the ocean. They are carbon-based units, conduits for nutrients, and critical elements in ocean food webs. If people really understood the methods being used to capture wild fish, they might think about choosing whether to eat them at all, because the methods are so destructive and wasteful." Earle points out the absurdity of eating apex predators like tuna and sea bass that can live up to 32 and 80 years, respectively. Bluefin tuna takes 10-14 years to mature, which is radically different from land-based mammals that are slaughtered after a few months (like chickens) or a couple years (cows). By comparison, "think of how many fish have been consumed in a 10-year period to make even a pound of one of those wild ocean carnivores." Lloyd Alter Dried seafood for sale in China Except for people living in coastal communities that have limited choices about what to consume, eating wildlife should be viewed as a luxury, not a right. Especially in North America, there's almost always another choice. In Earle's words, "[Eating seafood] is never, as far as I can tell, a true necessity, given our access to other food sources." Nor is there any truly ethical seafood. Monbiot points to recent reports of the Marine Stewardship Council's failure to protect scallop beds and endangered sharks. Fish that we've told are safe to consume, like cod and mackerel, have seen their numbers plummet yet again. Aquaculture is contaminating ocean waters with its disease-ridden open pens. The message is clear; the times have changed. "It isnt like 10,000 years ago or 5,000 years ago or even 50 years ago. These days, our capacity to kill greatly exceeds the capacity of the natural systems to replenish." If you care at all about the oceans, worry less about the plastic bags and more about the fish and keeping them off your plate. editorial@tribune.com Neeraj Bagga Tribune News Service Amritsar, May 8 With the electioneering at peak as the Lok Sabha polls in Punjab are barely two weeks away, people want the BJP to explain its stand on the ignored Central Government-announced projects. Several project, such as Amritsar-Ferozepur railway line, Post Graduate National Institute of Horticulture Research and Education, construction of a separate building and appointment of a regular head of the IIM-Amritsar, a software technology park, havent seen the light of day. Kulwant Singh Ankhi, retired government school principal, says, Even several years after the allocation of railway budget for laying the rail tracks between Patti (Tarn Taran) and Makhu (Ferozepur), the project remains only on paper. The proposed 25.47-km stretch will cost Rs 1,500 crore to Rs 2,000 crore. As per norms, the total cost of the project is to be shared by the Railway Ministry and the state government. The rail link is likely to reduce the distance from Punjab and Jammu and Kashmir to Mumbai by about 250 km. It will also shorten the distance between Amritsar and Ferozepur from 118 km to 86 km. Another citizen, Prof Mohan Singh, says the IIM-Amritsar became functional a few years ago from the campus of Punjab Institute of Technology, but having its own campus appears to be distant dream. Even its director has not been appointed in these years. A progressive farmer, Kuljit Singh, said an inordinate delay in setting up the ambitious Post Graduate National Institute of Horticulture Research and Education here has hurt the interests of farmers. The institute will be established by Indian Council for Agriculture Research (ICAR) in collaboration with the Punjab government. Local farmers are trapped in the vicious cycle of wheat and paddy. The government is encouraging farmers to opt for crop diversification, but it has failed to achieve desired results so far. Establishment of a horticulture institute will enhance farmers income, he said. He added that the state, presently, over 50,000 acres of land under horticulture, a figure which the government intends to increase to two lakh hectares. However, it is possible only when the horticulturists are provided with export avenues and processing facilities. A farmer leader, Rattan Singh Randhawa, said the government made grand claims regarding improved basic amenities for more productivity by providing quality germ plasm and planting material as well as developing water use efficiency through micro-irrigation, but the same remains only on paper. Without R&D support in this stream of agriculture, individual farmers can not do much. The then Union minister for electronics and information technology, Ravi Shankar Parsad, had laid the foundation stone of the Software Technology Park of India (STPI) Centre here on November 7, 2016. After about a half and two years, the construction of its building is still under way. An industrialist, Rajan Bedi, said, The holy city, if made an IT hub, can be a major game changer for the region as the city is well connected by road, rail and air with various key national and international destinations. It is the gateway to the Central Asian countries, like Afghanistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Kazakhstan and Kyrgystan. Notably, these countries are dependent on foreign countries for most of their IT needs. Amritsar can be the best IT destination for them as it has international airport and international bus terminal, he said. Rajya Sabha MP Shwait Malik, Punjab president of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), said the Union Government kept giving Central projects to the holy city, but the non-cooperative attitude of the Congress government delayed the implementation. District Congress Committee chief Jatinder Sonia denies the charge. The BJP-led National Democratic Alliance Government at the Centre has never been sincere in allocation of projects, Sonia adds. vermaajay1968@gmail.com Vijay C Roy Tribune News Service Chandigarh, May 8 Its a problem of plenty for Himachal Pradesh corrugated box manufacturers catering to pharmaceutical sector. With many of the pharma units having shifted their operations to Sikkim in the past couple of years to avail incentives, the box manufacturers have cut production by 20-25%. The special industrial package given to Himachal Pradesh in 2003 led to growth of corrugated box manufacturing in Parwanoo, Baddi, Kala Amb, Nalagarh, Solan, Paonta Sahib, Una and Kullu in Himachal. There are over 350 corrugated box manufacturing units in the state with an average craft paper procurement of 40,000 tonnes per month. The industry is catering to clients such as pharma, FMCG, auto and electrical appliances industry. Since the excise duty exemption (now subsumed in GST) given to industry in Himachal is set to expire in 2020, several companies, especially pharmaceutical units who have migrated to Sikkim and expanded their operations there before 2017 will get same tax benefits for the next 10 years. As the corrugated box manufacturers are dependent on the pharma sector to a great extent, the migration of pharma units to Sikkim has affected their (box manufacturers) operations. The industry is passing through turbulent times, as many of the pharmaceutical units have cut the production in Baddi and shifted their based to Sikkim, affecting the packaging industry. So, the industry is left with no option but to cut production. A majority of the packaging units are not utilising their optimum capacity and it is affecting their bottom lines, resulting in cost escalation, said Mukesh Jain, former president, Himachal Pradesh Corrugated Box Manufacturers Association. The Baddi, Barotiwala and Nalagarh belt in Himachal Pradesh had attracted several pharmaceutical units after the tax incentive scheme was announced in 2003. To avail the incentives, many of the pharma units operating from other states moved to Himachal Pradesh. According to estimates, there are around 750 pharma companies operating in the state. The turnover of the pharma industry in Baddi-Barotiwala-Nalagarh belt alone is around Rs 40,000 crore and it has a significant share in the Rs 1.10 lakh-crore domestic pharma market. To sustain and cater to their clients, a handful of packaging units also shifted to Sikkim. According to the industry, the average production cut by the industry is over 20%. The average production cut by the packaging industry in Baddi alone is between 20-25%. Fearing losses, we also expanded our base in Sikkim in 2017 to cater to our pharmaceutical clients, said Arun Shukla, managing director, ASSR Printpack. Like Arun, Pradeep Didwania also expanded his operations and set up a new unit in Assam to serve its packaging clients. It doesnt make any sense to serve the clients based in Sikkim from Baddi as transportation cost makes the product unviable. Considering this fact, we have set up the unit in Assam nearer to our clients, said Didwania, a manufacturer. Corrugated box business in HP vermaajay1968@gmail.com New Delhi: Loan exposure worth Rs 12,000 crore of almost 55 green companies of crisis-hit IL&FS Group is likely to be settled by July-end, a senior government official said as he asserted that the resolution process is on track. Besides, many of the green companies have positive equity which means that after settling debt obligations, shareholders would get something in return for their equity stake, Corporate Affairs Secretary Injeti Srinivas said. PTI rchopra@tribunemail.com Mumbai, May 9 The rupee depreciated by 18 paise to 69.89 against the US dollar in early trade on Thursday amid heavy sell-off in domestic equity market and foreign fund outflows. Forex traders said the US-China trade concerns also weighed on the domestic currency. The rupee opened weak at 69.70 at the interbank forex market and then fell further to 69.89, down 18 paise over its last close. The rupee had settled at 69.71 against the US dollar on Wednesday. China has threatened to take retaliatory measures if US President Donald Trump raises tariffs on USD 200 billion worth of goods ahead of the crucial 11th round of talks aimed at ending the trade war between the worlds two largest economies. The talks are due to be held on May 9-10 in Washington between trade delegations headed by Chinese Vice Premier Liu He and US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer and US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin. On the domestic front, foreign institutional investors (FIIs) pulled out Rs 645.08 crore on a net basis on Wednesday, provisional data showed. Domestic bourses opened on a negative note on Thursday with benchmark indices Sensex trading 191.71 points down at 37,606.72 and Nifty down 54.60 points at 11,304.85. Forex dealers said easing crude oil prices, however, supported the local unit and restricted the downfall. Brent crude futures, the global oil benchmark, fell 0.78 per cent to USD 69.82 per barrel. PTI editorial@tribune.com Sai R Vaidyanathan People in high rank may think that their weapons and speech gives them power over others, but they forget that the strength that Gods devotion bestows is the potent of all. Human verdicts fail Kabir was once declared a heretic and taken before King Sikandar Lodi. The King declared that he be chained and drowned in a river. But sometime later, Kabir rose unharmed from the water. Then, it was alleged that he is a sorcerer and was condemned to be locked up in a hut and burnt alive. But the fire did no harm to him. Finally, he was sentenced to be trampled under an elephant. But the jumbo ran away as it saw a group of ferocious lions in place of Kabir. On seeing this, Lodi set Kabir free. Huge popularity The nagar kirtans by 16th century saint Chaitanya Mahaprabhu began attracting crowds. Alarmed, the administrator of Nabadwip, Kazi Barbahak, issued a proclamation prohibiting all religious processions and public singing. Chaitanya defied the order and many followers joined him in a procession to the Kazis palace. The Kazi got scared and locked himself up in his palace. Only when Chaitanya assured the Kazi that no harm would come to him did the two meet. On Chaitanyas request, the Kazis proclamation was withdrawn. Up against an army In the 13th century, Madhvacharya was on a tour to North India with his disciples. On the southern bank of the Ganga, they saw boats lying idle. On enquiry, the boatman replied that a Sultan and his army were camping on the other side and there were orders that they should not be disturbed. Not willing to give up, Madhva told his disciples to follow him across the river. On the other side, the Sultans soldiers started threatening them. Madhva calmly replied that he would talk only to the Sultan. On hearing the argument, the Sultan emerged from his tent. In chaste Turkish, the saint explained his mission to the Sultan. Impressed, the Sultan allowed Madhvacharya and his team to travel freely in his territory. Massacre of babies Three wise men from the east guided by a brilliant star were on their way towards Jerusalem. As they had come to worship Jesus, the King of the Jews who had just been born, they decided to ask the ruler there, King Herod, for directions. When the royal priest told them that the new King of Israel had been born in Bethlehem, Herod told the trio to go there and then report back to him. Herod, in fact, intended to kill his competitor even if he was just a newborn. Meanwhile, an angel appeared to the wise men and told them not to go back to Herod and return home by another route. On hearing that the trio had left the country, Herod ordered the massacre of all newborn boys. But the angel told Joseph and Mary, parents of Jesus Christ, to flee with him to Egypt. Later that year, Herod died and soon after, Joseph, Mary and little Jesus returned to Nazareth. The author can be contacted at author.sai@gmail.com Rasheed Kidwai Rasheed kidwai Senior Journalist & Author Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi should have considered accepting Prime Minister Narendra Modis challenge to contest the coming Lok Sabha poll in Punjab, Delhi and Bhopal in the context of Rajiv Gandhis legacy, but the last date for filing nomination, April 29, is over. Though, even if they had, the rationale of a mandate settling any wrong is a flawed argument in a civilised and democratic society. Punjab, Delhi and Bhopal have witnessed many Assembly and parliamentary polls since 1984. Punjab has seen Congress rule from 1992-97, 2002-07 and 2017 till date. Delhi has had 15 long years under Sheila Dikshit when the Congress political leadership was in the hands of Rajivs widow, Sonia Gandhi. Modis jibe against Rajiv Gandhi, holding him responsible for the release of Union Carbide Corporation chairman Warren Anderson who had come to Bhopal on December 7, 1984, four days after the lethal gas leak from the Union Carbide factory that killed thousands of people, is somewhat misplaced. Anderson died in September 2014 at the age of 93 in the US, never having had to appear before any Indian court in any case relating to the Bhopal gas tragedy. In June 2010, a Bhopal court had convicted seven persons in connection with the case, but it did not name Anderson in its verdict, describing him as an absconder. In his autobiography, A Grain of Sand in the Hourglass of Time, Arjun Singh, who was Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh when the Union Carbide chief was arrested at the Bhopal airport and let off within hours, pointed a finger at PV Narasimha Rao, who was then Union Home Minister. Arjun Singh wrote: I would like to make it clear that at no point of time did Rajiv talk to me about this matter (Andersons release) or intercede on Andersons behalf. I came to know later that Union Home Secretary RD Pradhan, upon the instructions of Union Home Minister PV Narasimha Rao, had telephoned Brahma Swaroop (MPs chief secretary then) to ensure Andersons release. Rahul seems cagey about the 1984 anti-Sikh riots because it is a highly emotive and sensitive issue. While interacting with UK-based parliamentarians and local leaders on August 24, 2018, he had remarked, I have no confusion in my mind about that. It was a tragedy, it was a painful experience. You say that the Congress party was involved in that, I don't agree with that. Certainly there was violence, certainly there was tragedy. Rahul had admitted to Arnab Goswami in a televised interview that some Congressmen were involved in the anti-Sikh riots of 1984. Here is a recap of that question-answer session: Arnab: Were Congressmen involved? Rahul: Did innocent people die? Absolutely. Arnab: Were Congressmen involved? Rahul: Some Congressmen were probably involved. Arnab: Has justice been delivered to them? Rahul: There is a legal process through which they have gone through. Arnab: You admit some Congressmen were probably involved. Rahul: Some Congressmen have been punished for it. Perhaps, due to political and electoral compulsions, Rahul fell short of saying certain things that Dr Manmohan Singh had articulated during his 1999 South Delhi Lok Sabha poll campaign. Singh had lost to BJPs Vijay Kumar Malhotra. During the campaign, Manmohan had sought to implicate the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). Speaking at the Press Club of India on September 2, 1999, Manmohan had termed the 1984 riots as a black spot and the saddest event. He had, however, clarified that the Congress as an organisation had no role in it. Manmohan then went on to say that the FIRs lodged at different police stations in Delhi proved that several RSS men were involved in the riots. Manmohan subsequently clarified that he had not held the RSS solely responsible for the 1984 riots. On December 13, 1999, Manmohan said, My statement was twisted for electoral gains. I had said that if there were individuals associated with the Congress and other organisations, including the RSS, who had taken part in the riots, they should be punished. As Prime Minister, when Manmohan rose in the Rajya Sabha on August 11, 2005, to tender an unqualified apology over the 1984 Sikh killings, the RSS reference was missing. Instead, he said that he was not standing on any false prestige and bowed his head in shame. A somewhat emotional Manmohan also recalled how he had accompanied Congress president Sonia Gandhi to Harmandar Sahib in 1999 and remarked, We together prayed to give us strength and show us the way that such things never again take place in our country, and added, as human beings, we have the willpower and we have the ability to write a better future for all of us. Rahul Gandhi is battling a defamation case filed by the RSS relating to his claim that the organisation was behind the killing of Mahatma Gandhi. Privately, a section of influential Congressmen feels that Rahul seems influenced by liberals and Left intellectuals on such sensitive matters as the 1984 anti-Sikh riots, else he could have showcased Manish Tewari and Ajay Maken as victims of the Punjab insurgency. Tewaris father, Dr VN Tewari, a professor and author of over 40 books, was gunned down by militants in Chandigarh in 1984, while Makens brother Lalit, parliamentarian and son-in-law of former President Shankar Dayal Sharma, was murdered in Delhi on July 31, 1985. While there is a huge difference between State-sponsored violence and individual acts of terrorism, the wanton killings of Professor Tewari, Lalit Maken and several others had left a deep impact. There is also a narrative of over 30,000 killings of innocent lives during the long years of insurgency in Punjab which does not form part of any political narrative. Modis party colleague in the 1980s, Madan Lal Khurana, had developed a habit of sorts of plastering Delhi walls with posters and slogans, Hum lashen ginte ginte thak gaye (we are tired of counting corpses) each time there was a massacre in Punjab or parts of Haryana. In my book Ballot Ten Episodes that have shaped Indias Democracy, it is mentioned that the RSS was supporting the then Prime Minister Indira Gandhis efforts to tame separatism in Punjab during the early 1980s. An article authored by veteran RSS ideologue Nanaji Deshmukh, Moments of soul searching published in Hindi magazine Pratipaksh on November 25, 1984, had ended with a call to bless and cooperate with Rajiv Gandhi when the General Election was less than a month away (on page 31, Deshmukh described Indira as, Indira Gandhi ultimately did secure a permanent place at the doorstep of history as a great martyr. With her dynamism born out of her fearlessness and dexterity, she was able to take the country forward like a colossus for over a decadeshe alone had the ability to run the decadent political system of our corrupt and divided society) Is Prime Minister Narendra Modi ready to contest these facts? Shelley Walia Shelley Walia Emeritus Professor, Dept of English and Cultural Studies, Panjab University Huge demonstrations outside the Ecuadorian embassy in London on April 5, a few days before Julian Assange was expelled from asylum and arrested by the British police evidently indicate that his detention by the British Government is unlawful, inflammatory and offensive to the world of journalism. Rafael Correa, previous President of Ecuador, had granted asylum to Assange to rescue him from extradition to the US where he could have faced death sentence. But Lenin Moreno, the current head of state, took it away on the charge of repeated violations to international conventions and daily-life protocols. The moot point here is whether Assange is guilty of publishing classified documents on American conduct in Syria, Venezuela and Chagos Island, its war crimes in Iraq and Afghanistan, including the eye-opening video capturing the cold-blooded massacre of 12 civilians by American soldiers in Baghdad. And, whether his detention in the Belmarsh maximum-security prison, reserved for extremely dangerous criminals, is well deserved in a country that stridently proclaims its unimpeachable liberal and democratic traditions. Though Sweden dropped investigations against Assange in 2012 and President Obama refused to ask for his extradition on the ground that it might set the wrong precedent of undemocratic control of investigative journalism, Trump has relentlessly gone hammer and tongs after Assange. It is a common practice that information about specific culpable acts of the State is often used by the press, thereby making the traditional news media like the Guardian, New York Times or Washington Post as guilty of circulating incriminatory news, such as WikiLeaks. It would be unwarranted to distinguish one from the other. The hostility which is read into the WikiLeaks case is apparently not applied uniformly to the conventional media. Reporting on leaked materials, including reporting on classified information, is an essential role of American journalism, as argued by the Electronic Frontier Foundation. This is done customarily by journalists, keeping in view public interest and, therefore, a standard practice of journalism. Any punishment to Assange by Britain or the US consequently will discourage whistleblowers from divulging serious lapses of the State. The defence of critical thinking and freedom of the press would thereby stand watered down. Which brings me to the point of divergence in the views on the extradition of Assange to the US on the basis of a non-crime that is investigative in nature and for which he is being charged with conspiracy to access a computer without authorisation to obtain classified information that in all likelihood could be used against the interests of the nation. As per information provided by Chelsea Manning, WikiLeaks provided 90,000 war-related significant activity reports about Afghanistan, 4,00,000 about Iraq, 800 Guantanamo detainee assessment briefs and 2,50,000 US State Department cables, all of which were published in 2010 and 2011. The indictment of Assange in the US contends that he facilitated Manning to crack a password to make it harder to discover Manning as the source of the confidential information. Interestingly, no further charges under the Espionage Act have been be brought by the US as that would carry a death penalty which would, in turn, prevent Assanges extradition from Britain, owing to the envisaged severity of the punishment. The ball now is in the British court which is in a position to impede the extradition on the grounds of torture or other degrading inhuman treatment or, alternatively, let Assange fall into the US entrapment. Evidently, there are serious possibilities of violation of human rights under the Republican dispensation, going by the handling of Manning who was kept in solitary confinement along with the unbecoming everyday body inspection in a state of undress. Political motives behind the request for extradition make the whole case null and void, making Britains role in handing over Assange to the US outrageous and in contravention of human rights. The extraterritorial reach of the US must be prevented from undermining the autonomy of the individual or a government that comes in the way of global American interests. Such actions, states Chomsky in a recent interview, are clearly intended to silence a journalist who was relying on information that people in power would hate the multitudes to get a whiff of, underscoring how Assanges prosecution is similar to the incarceration of Lulu in Brazil or Antonio Gramsci in Italy under Mussolinis regime with the aim of restraining dissidence of any nature. Gramscis prosecutor emphatically declared, We have to silence this voice for 20 years. Can't let it speak. Libertarian ideal of radical transparency that explicitly underscores the ethical code of sincere journalism, is therefore, swept under the carpet. Human rights and the savage rule of law clash and in a stroke the very sanctity of legal asylum sanctioned by the United Nations covenant signed by the democracies of the West, reveals the unacceptable elements of the state machinery. The picture of Assange being dragged out of the Ecuadorian embassy by burly British cops shamed and angered the fair and the just. And all, owing to a crime in journalism when many state officials guilty of military transgressions against human rights, of butchery or of torturing the innocent and the untried go scot-free. Exposure of lies or genocide is no reason for bestowing state honour when it goes against the state policy. The truth that Assange revealed to the world should never have been concealed. Declares Assange, People have a right to know and a right to question and challenge power. Thats true democracy. How then is his Wikileaks an unlawful publication when the drive is to scrutinise the state mechanism? Journalists like Assange need to be acknowledged as empowering agencies jolting the public out of its compliant stupor, as icons of impetus to not back down or be silenced, but to speak truth to power if only to prevent an irreparable damage to the inviolability of honest reporting. Maj Gen Ashok Mehta (Retd) Maj Gen Ashok Mehta (Retd) Defence commentator PM Modis decision to launch punitive airstrikes following the JeM-organised suicide strike at Pulwama against a CRPF convoy was replete with the risk of vertical and horizontal escalation leading to more than limited war. Retribution for 40 Pulwama martyrs is one thing, but retaliation using air power, not in disputed PoK but in Pakistan, is a two step up the escalation ladder response. Under normal circumstances, Modi may have let this option pass and settle for surgical strikes 2.0, which Pakistan expected. But pre-election days are not normal times. With the BJP image having been dented in the Assembly elections in the three Hindi heartland states, Pulwama was a godsend to make up and show Modi as a strong leader who had made a muscular policy shift towards Pakistan. This is illusory. Such imaginative thinking is fine, except that it has ignored the colossal intelligence failure that led to Pulwama in the first place. But when Modi revealed in one of his campaign rallies that he was ready to fire 12 missiles even if pure fantasy to obtain the release of Wing Commander Abhinandan, and even resort to nuclear brinkmanship by pointing that Indias nuclear arsenal was not just for Diwali, these avowals of muscularity are alarming and a good reason to regulate brazen actions of prime ministers in less than a war situation. Amazing that the Election Commission failed to promulgate its model code to deter campaigners from using military operations to garner votes. The US has a law called the War Powers Resolution (WPR) that was enacted in 1973 during the Vietnam War to circumscribe the President and Congress role in declaring war and handling less than war situations. The President must get Congress authority within 60 days of committing troops abroad. If the Congress denies approval, troops have to be withdrawn in 30 days. Interestingly, there are clauses in WPR that require the President to consult the Congress before armed engagement. In the US the authority of the President is frequently challenged by the Congress, with the President having the overriding veto. The US constitution gives the President and Congress limited powers over declaring hostilities, but only the Congress can declare war. When it comes to launching missile strikes, armed drones and other punitive military actions, there are fully institutionalised procedures and a vetting chain under the Chairman of Joint Chiefs of Staff, a four-star General whom the President has to consult before any military action is cleared by him and authorised by the President. In India there are no constitutional and parliamentary entities that monitor, control and keep oversight over war, especially in less than war situations. That is how in 1962 Nehru authorised a deputy secretary in the MoD to order the Army to throw Chinese troops out of Thagla ridge. The Army occupying in 1987 the Wandung heights overlooking Chinese intrusion in Sumodrong Chu was local preemptive action. All major military actions are authorised by the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) but without any oversight by Parliament. At best, an all-party meeting is briefed by the foreign or defence ministers. After the 2001 Parliament attack, a complete deployment of the armed forces was ordered by the CCS as integral ingredient of coercive diplomacy. The decision to declare war was widely debated in the CCS before it was rejected. Withdrawal of deployed forces after 11 months was strangely recommended by the National Security Advisory Board. In regard to offensive punitive action astride the LoC, one has seen it develop and escalate since 1957. Initially even exchange of small arms fire was rare. Only before the 1965 War did cross-LoC firing start and tit-for-tat raids commence. After the 1971 War, it was once again peace till the 1990 proxy war was unleashed by Pakistan. This picked up and surgical strikes were not uncommon. The cross-LoC military actions were regulated by the Northern Army Commander in Udhampur with the Army Chief in the loop. In the absence of a Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), the non-statutory National Security Adviser has assumed the pivotal position in the military chain of command. In the past five years of the Modi government, the country has witnessed two cross-border military operations, surgical strikes and Balakot. For each of these primary credit has been appropriated by Modi who tends to act and behave like an executive president. The highest political leadership has only perfunctory understanding of deterrence, escalatory nature of air power, escalation control and nuclear signalling. If a dozen ballistic missiles (most severely escalatory as they are liable to be mistaken as nuclear armed) were planned to be fired and the nuclear word even conceived, it would represent nuclear brinkmanship that mature nations like India should eschew. Otherwise, it makes India look like Pakistan. Modi by equating terrorism with national security and using it as his election winning slogan has seriously compromised both. Giving any single service chief a free hand in planning and executing major military actions is inadvisable. A CDS must be appointed and mandated to vet trans-border operations. This will ensure that a prime minister takes a careful look at his options and is given prudent advice by the seniormost military professional, the CDS, and not guided by his confidant, the NSA, who in this instance is a police officer. This will also ensure that electoral compulsions do not shape the countrys response as war is not an option for a rising India. Phew! Balakot was good but a close one. rchopra@tribunemail.com Dubai, May 9 An Indian Christian businessman, who built a mosque for Muslim workers in the UAE, is serving iftar meals to nearly 800 workers during the ongoing month of Ramzan. Saji Cheriyan, 49, who hails from Keralas Kayamkulam, built the mosque last year for Muslim workers living in a worker accommodation that he rented out to 53 companies in Fujairah. He built the Mariam Umm Eisa mosque after he saw workers spending their earnings on taking taxis to go to the nearest mosque to offer prayers during the holy month. Ramzan this year began on May 7. Cheriyan, who landed in the UAE in 2003 with just a few hundred dirhams, hosts iftar for about 800 people, including workers and other senior employees of various companies, at an air-conditioned convention centre in the same complex, the Gulf News reported. The mosque opened on the 17th night of Ramadan last year. So I could offer iftar to the worshippers only for the remaining days. From this year, I would be doing it every day, he was quoted as saying by the newspaper. The iftar meal includes dates, fresh fruits, snacks, juice, water and biryani. I have made arrangements to offer different types of biryani so that they dont get bored eating the same dish every iftar, he said. Abdul Qayum, a 63-year-old Pakistani bus driver, who had iftar on Wednesday, appreciated Cheriyans efforts. The world needs people like him. If there are no people like him, the world will end. We are praying for him. Allah will bless him. Vajas Abdul Wahid, an Indian employed as assistant manager with a company, said there are employees of more than 50 companies living in the area. Senior employees and labourers are staying in separate accommodations. But, when we come here, we are all equal. We pray and have iftar together, he added. The mosque in the East Ville Real Estate complex in Al Hayl Industrial Area can accommodate 250 worshippers at a time. Facilities for 700 more to pray in the interlocked courtyard of the mosque, which will be shaded by the time it opens, have also been arranged. PTI shalender@tribune.com Notwithstanding a clean chit given to Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi by an in-house inquiry committee, the controversy surrounding the unprecedented allegations of sexual harassment levelled against him by a dismissed employee of the Supreme Court refuses to die down. The manner in which the three-judge in-house committee headed by Justice SA Bobde went ahead with the inquiry despite the complainant opting out of the proceedings has raised more questions than it answered. First, the panel chose to ignore the womans demand to be accompanied by a lawyer and video recording of the closed-door hearings. And then, it refused to make its findings public. The complainant has demanded a copy of the findings of the committee. She does have a right to know why and on what grounds the panel concluded that there was no substance in her allegations. Even if one were to presume that the panels findings are based on facts and compatible with legal principles, its decision not to share the findings with anyone has only made it vulnerable to attacks from the complainant and activists by providing legitimate grounds. Justice Bobde panels inquiry was set up on the administrative side. On the judicial side, a three-judge Bench headed by Justice Arun Mishra has also ordered a probe by Justice (retd) AK Patnaik into allegations levelled by advocate Utsav Bains that there is a larger conspiracy to frame the CJI in a false sexual harassment case. What procedure Justice Patnaik panel would adopt remains to be seen. Already women activists have started protests against the clean chit given to the CJI. Bar leaders appear to be divided on the contentious issue. There have been reports that some judges had questioned the procedure adopted by the panel and had suggested that a retired SC woman judge should be included in the panel and the complainant should be allowed to be accompanied by a lawyer. But its too late to consider these suggestions. These are trying times for the SC as an institution. Merely following the laid-down procedure is not going to help in a case where the CJIs rectitude has been questioned. What is needed is a collective decision by judges of the SC that can assure the people and restore the institutions credibility in the eyes of the common man. Not only must justice be done; it must also be seen to be done. Who knows this legal maxim better than the my lords? amansharma@tribunemail.com The great grandson of former deputy Prime Minister Devi Lal, Dushyant Chautala is seeking re-election from Hisar parliamentary constituency. Though he has an impressive tenure in the Lok Sabha and voters also admit his activism and contribution for various development projects, he is facing many hurdles in his second attempt at the hustings. Besides taking on the rival BJP and Congress candidates, split in the Chautala family is hurting him. After he was expelled from the INLD, he formed a new outfit Jannayak Janta Party (JJP) and has tied up with the Aam Aadmi Party. Excerpts from an interview with The Tribune reporter Deepender Deswal: You are seeking re-election from a new party this time. How is the response of people? I am going to the people on the basis of my performance and works done by me in five years. I raised in the Lok Sabha the issues concerning people and farmers. Also, I allocated funds for development works. A major chunk of the MPLAD funds went towards electrification of dhanis. The first passport centre was opened at any district headquarters in Hisar. Who are your main rivals in Hisar? I am fighting against two ideologies. One, the BJPs ideology which believe in division of the society on caste and communal lines. Two, the Congress culture of loot and corruption. Both these parties have ruined the country and society. JJP in alliance with the AAP has been contesting on all 10 Lok Sabha seats in Haryana. What are your hopes? JJP came into being about five months back. We are getting overwhelming response across the state. Our alliance will continue in the Assembly polls as well. Do you think that the split in the family can affect your electoral prospects in this election? We have moved over after that episode. We now have a new party which is our platform to struggle for the welfare of people. BJP is banking on Modi factor in Haryana. Do you think it is a factor in the state? Is caste a factor in Haryana? The elections will throw surprising results. There is no Modi factor on the ground. The electorate have left behind the negative issues like casteism. The Congress and INLD allege that you are acting as B team of BJP and you supported the NDA in Lok Sabha. Your take? I fail to understand what is the basis of their charge. In fact, it shows the bankruptcy of the idea with them to target their opponent. Even PM Modi has attacked me in the Fatehabad rally on May 8 taking recourse to a baseless allegation against me. Your younger brother Digvijay is contesting against former CM in Sonepat. He is targeted by rivals for resorting to revenge politics. Your response? How can anybody question a political party if it fields its candidate at any constituency? Even my great grandfather Devi Lal contested from three Lok Sabha seats in 1989 and defeated Balram Jakhar after challenging him. We have the right to strengthen our party at different segments. laxmi@tribune.com Sushil Manav Tribune News Service Fatehabad, May 8 Prime Minister Narendra Modi today launched his poll campaign in Haryana, the land of agriculturists and soldiers, with an affirmation that the BJP government was committed to ensuring respect for farmers and the men in uniform. Addressing his first Lok Sabha election rally in the state, Modi said, Our brave sons now enter the base of terrorists in Pakistan to kill them. The terrorists, who used to scare us, now sit in fear. This, he claimed, was the difference between the Congress government and the one led by your chowkidar. When Pakistan killed our soldiers, the government of that time did not go beyond issuing a few statements. But we gave our soldiers a free hand and the change is there to see, he said. In a bid to woo the large concentration of Sikh voters in the Sirsa Lok Sabha constituency, Modi said, Your chowkidar had promised the Sikh community that the 1984 riots culprits will be punished. I am satisfied that the process of them being sentenced to death or life imprisonment has started. Akali Dal president Sukhbir Singh Badal was also present on the dais. Referring to the appointment of Kamal Nath as CM in Madhya Pradesh, Modi alleged that the shameless Congress is awarding those who were part of the crime. Lashing out at the Congress, Modi said the party humiliated soldiers and could not accept their genuine demand of one rank one pension (OROP) for 34 years and when the BJP backed the cause, a provision of Rs 500 crore was made and the Congress falsely claimed that OROP had been implemented. When the BJP actually implemented the OROP, a sum of Rs 33,000 crore was required for it, he said. Modi also spoke about his governments schemes for farmers like PM Kisan, increasing MSP with 50 per cent profit on input costs and also reiterated his governments promise to double their income by 2022. In an obvious attack on UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhis son-in-law Robert Vadra and former CM Bhupinder Singh Hooda, Modi alleged that the previous Congress government cheated farmers by forcing them to sell their land at cheaper rates. Now your chowkidar has made them take rounds of courts and the Enforcement Directorate for bail. I have brought them closer to jails. You give me another chance and you will see they are at their right place, he added. Hitting out on the Opposition, Modi said the Congress and their mahamilavati allies had given up now. Why Fatehabad... editorial@tribune.com Nitish Sharma Tribune News Service Kurukshetra, May 8 Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday accused the Congress of hurling abuses at him and said that the countrymen would never forgive the party for insulting the culture of the country. Addressing a Vijay Sankalp rally in Kurukshetra in support of BJP candidates Rattan Lal Kataria (Ambala), Nayab Saini (Kurukshetra) and Sanjay Bhatia (Karnal), Modi said: The BJP has made efforts to make life of the common man easier. Haryana is like home to me and I am here to take your blessings again. When we talk of Indias culture, the Congress goes silent due to its vote bank. The Congress supports people who abuse the sacred texts of the Mahabharata and the Ramayana. It believes in sending someone who takes the name of Lord Rama to jail. It supports those who talk about chopping me into pieces, it has given tickets to them. I stopped their corruption and challenged their dynasty because of which they wear masks of love and abuse me, the Prime Minister claimed, adding that the Congress compared him to Hitler, Dawood Ibrahim, Mussolini, etc. Kurukshetra is a land of truth so from here I want to tell my countrymen what is their love dictionary and the words they use for me, Modi said. His remarks come after Congress president Rahul Gandhi said on Monday that despite Modi insulting his father Rajiv Gandhi, he only had love for the Prime Minister. A leader of the Congress called me gandi naali ka keeda (an insect), one leader called me a mad dog, another one called me Bhasmasura. One more Congress leader, who was external affairs minister, called me a monkey while another minister compared me with Dawood Ibrahim, Modi alleged. They even abused my mother and asked who my father is and remember all this was said after I became Prime Minister, he said. The Prime Minister said nobody had ever questioned this behaviour of Congress leaders. I know speaking such kind of words from a public platform is not right. Children studying in schools and colleges too are listening to my speech, but they should neither learn nor speak such kind of language (used by Congress leaders against him), he said. I have shared my story for the first time as today I am home. The one-sided oppression forced me to bring this in front of the country. I want your help to spread this story across the nation, the Prime Minister added. Targeting the Congress over the river waters, Modi said: The Congress has been concerned about one family only and has showed no concern about protecting the rights of the country. Many rivers go to Pakistan from India, but the Congress did nothing to check that. Your chowkidar has pledged to protect the countrys share of the water and use it for farmers of Haryana and other states. (Inputs from PTI) What Modi said editorial@tribune.com Gulha Cheeka, May 8 Are you organising a political rally? Do you want a crowd for it? Which kit or package do you want? A cacophony of such questions is likely to greet a person visiting the only taxi stand in Gulha Cheeka village, located on the Punjab-Haryana border. For the cab operators at this taxi stand in Kurukshetra Lok Sabha constituency, elections are a time to make some quick money. They stop cab operations and instead provide vehicles and crowds for political rallies. Based on their requirements, customers can choose from different kits and packages. A kit refers to a five or seven-seater car with or without as many occupants. A package includes 50 kits. High-end packages also offer characterisation of crowds. If it is a rally in Punjab, they want more Sikhs. And if its a rally in Haryana, they want more Jats. So we provide all kinds of crowds. We have our own cars as well and since a large number of vehicles are needed for rallies, we outsource them for a commission, Binny Singhla, a local taxi operator, said. According to Singhla, there is usually a demand for 150-500 kits whenever there are rallies in Punjab and Haryana. We have sent packages to two rallies in Rajasthan as well. But our business is not active in other states yet because then there are stay requirements for those travelling, he said. While a five-seater car alone is available for Rs 2,500, one with occupants costs Rs 4,500. In case of requirement of modification in the look of the crowd, a kit can cost up to Rs 6,000. Explaining the business, 47-year-old Rakesh Kapoor, another taxi operator, said: We give Rs 300 each to the people going to the rallies. The party which has bought the package is responsible for arranging food and alcohol for them if the rally is scheduled for the evening. If they cannot make the arrangements, we do it on their behalf but we charge extra for that. He said the political parties never approach them directly and instead their ground workers reach out to them. Both Singhla and Kapoor said the vehicles reaching rallies are strictly checked by workers of political parties to ensure that they are getting what they paid for. At least 10 km before a rally venue, there will be party workers who will check each car and record videos so the vehicles registration plates are seen and so are the people sitting inside, Singhla said. One cant promise them 100 cars and send less. They maintain a list of the number of cars that come, he said. PTI editorial@tribune.com Tribune News Service Shimla, May 8 Forget about Prime Minister, the leaders of opposition parties, including AICC president Rahul Gandhi, are struggling to become even the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha after the fifth phase of election, said Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur. In a press release issued here today, he said the people of the country have made up their mind to elect Narendra Modi as Prime Minister for the second term and the Opposition leaders have admitted that their Mahagathbandhan will not get the number to form even a coalition government. He said in the previous Lok Sabha elections, the BSP could not open its account, Samajwadi Party had five MPs, the TMC 34 MPs and the Congress won only 44 seats. Coming to power is just a dream for the opposition party which will never be realised. The Opposition is visionless while the Modi government has taken several initiatives for welfare of all sections of the society in the past five years. Jai Ram Thakur said that the victory of the BJP in all the four parliamentary seats in Himachal Pradesh would contribute towards formation of a strong government in the national interest. Himachal would stand to benefit as it would get liberal financial assistance from the Centre. editorial@tribune.com Dinesh Manhotra Tribune News Service Jammu, May 8 Notwithstanding tall claims of the party leadership, the BJPs top brass on Wednesday convened a meeting of all district presidents to seek feedback about chances of repeating the 2014 performance. Sources said grass-roots level workers were not confident of retaining three Lok Sabha seats which the party had won in the 2014 parliamentary elections. Todays meeting was convened to get a feedback from district presidents to forward a report to the high command, a senior BJP leader, wishing anonymity, told The Tribune, adding, Before the beginning of the election process, the state unit had promised to win at least three of the six Lok Sabha seats of the state. The sources said the BJP high command had sought reports from all state units where polling had been completed so as to prepare details about the total seats the party has chances to win in the five phases of the elections held so far. The sources said during the meeting, the district presidents informed the leadership that the party was on a comfortable position on the Jammu-Poonch Lok Sabha seat while there was a fight on the Udhampur-Doda and Ladakh parliamentary seats. The leadership is not so optimistic about retaining the Ladakh seat which the party had won with a narrow margin of 36 votes, a source said, adding the party had realised that the voting pattern on the Ladakh seat had added worries for the leadership. State president Ravinder Raina informed the meeting that the party was going to create history in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections. He claimed that the party was hopeful of opening its account in Kashmir also. Sitting Lok Sabha MP from the Jammu-Poonch seat, Jugal Kishore Sharma, said this time, besides the stupendous performance of the party in the two seats of the Jammu region, the BJP had performed well on the Ladakh seat also and in all three seats of Kashmir. Hopeful of opening account in Valley: Raina State president Ravinder Raina informed the meeting that the party was going to create history in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections. He claimed that the party was hopeful of opening its account in Kashmir also. Sitting Lok Sabha MP from the Jammu-Poonch seat, Jugal Kishore Sharma, said this time, besides the stupendous performance of the party in the two seats of the Jammu region, the BJP had performed well on the Ladakh seat also and in all three seats of Kashmir editorial@tribune.com Tribune News Service Jammu, May 8 The All Jammu and Kashmir Panchayat Conference (AJKPC) a frontline organisation of the elected panchayat members on Wednesday staged a protest against the killing of sarpanch Gul Mohammad Mir in South Kashmir on May 4. Mir was associated with the BJP and was gunned down by militants in the Verinag area of Anantnag district. The panchayats body demanded an FIR against the official who had ordered the withdrawal of his security cover. It also sought a high-level probe by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) into the killings of panchayat members under an alleged conspiracy since 2011. A number of panchayat members from various parts of the region gathered here and raised anti-government slogans. The protesters teared into the administration for its alleged failure to protect sarpanches and panches. We condemn the brutal killing of an elected panchayat member. The government should identify the official who had ordered the withdrawal of his security and register an FIR against him, said Anil Sharma, state president of the AJKPC. From 2011 to 2016, at least 18 panchayat members have been killed. The fresh incident has created fear among panchayat members. The NIA should be asked to conduct a detailed inquiry into the killings, he said. He questioned the Centre and the state government for their arbitrary rehabilitation policy for militants. Anil Sharma said, The government has kept the provision of financial assistance to militants in case they surrender before the government, But there is no policy for panchayat members who risk their lives to strengthen democracy in the state. He demanded a compensation of Rs 25 lakh each for next of kin of the slain panchayat members. editorial@tribune.com Tribune News Service Jammu, May 8 The Leh police on Wednesday registered an FIR against BJP leaders who allegedly tried to bribe journalists to influence the outcome of the Lok Sabha polls in Ladakh. The FIR was registered on the directions of the Chief Judicial Magistrate (CJM), Leh, after the court took cognisance of the case and the complaint filed by journalists of Leh and leaders of the Congress, who were seeking strict action against the BJP leaders. Since it is a non-cognisable offence, we received directions (for the registration of an FIR against the accused) from the court on Wednesday. Subsequent action will be taken, Avny Lavasa, District Magistrate, Leh, told The Tribune. Sources said the journalists, after filing a complaint with the police, submitted the CCTV footage as evidence to the District Magistrate requesting her to forward it to the court. Under a non-cognisance offence, the FIR is filed on the directions of the court only. It is a serious issue and we will not let them go scot-free. The BJP should expel both leaders on moral grounds. We will hold a protest against the BJP leaders on Thursday for bribing journalists, Congress candidate for Ladakh seat Rigzin Spalbar said. In the purported CCTV footage, BJP MLC Vikram Randhawa was allegedly seen handing out envelopes to journalists in the presence of the partys state unit chief Ravinder Raina on May 2. Opposition corners BJP The opposition has stepped up attack on the saffron party for indulging in immoral activities to influence the voters as party leaders were caught on camera. In light of the CCTV footage purported to show BJP leaders attempting to bribe journalists in Leh, Im retweeting my original tweet with the letter of complaint by the Press Club Leh. Action must follow, Omar Abdullah, National Conference vice-president, wrote on Twitter. Omar was reacting to the CCTV footage that has gone viral on the social media and also in the mainstream media, in which some BJP leaders, including the partys state president, Ravinder Raina, can be seen distributing envelopes among journalists at a hotel in Leh. Former MLC and Congress candidate for the Udhampur-Doda Lok Sabha seat Vikramaditya Singh urged the Election Commission of India and the J&K Police to initiate a swift investigation into the matter and take appropriate action against those guilty of the offence and violation of law and the model code of conduct. Vikramaditya said it was a matter of shame for the BJP that senior leaders could be involved in such corrupt practices while BJP central leaders continue to make claims of zero corruption and clean governance during the Modi government. The Congress leader extended full support to Leh journalists for exposing the BJPs misdeeds. President of the Press Club, Leh, Morup Stanzin has accused the BJP of bribing reporters during a press conference in Leh on May 2 to influence the election outcome and shift the narrative in the partys favour. Saffron party terms allegations baseless editorial@tribune.com Bollywood star Akshay Kumar has thanked Union Minister Kiren Rijiju for coming out in his support following a controversy over his citizenship. The actor, who recently made headlines for his candid and completely non-political chat with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, was the subject of intense speculation about his citizenship after he did not vote in Mumbai on April 29 in the fourth round of the seven-phase Lok Sabha polls. On May 3, in a statement on his official Twitter handle, the 51-year-old actor said he had never hidden or denied that he holds a Canadian passport. The same day, Rijiju offered his support to the Bollywood superstar, saying his patriotism towards the country is beyond any doubt. The Union Minister of State for Home Affairs also lauded Akshays efforts in raising funds for the Bharat Ke Veer campaign, a home ministry fund, which aids families of paramilitary personnel who died fighting extremists. Dear @akshaykumar ji, no one can question your patriotism. Your motivation to our Armed Forces personnel and the way you generated funds for our martyrs through #BharatKeVeer programme will remain an example for every patriotic Indian, Rijiju posted on the micro-blogging site. Being thankful In his response on Tuesday, Akshay thanked the minister, saying he will continue to support the Indian armed forces. Thank you so much @KirenRijiju Sir and I apologise for the delayed response. I am grateful for your kind words. Please be assured, my commitment to #BharatKeVeer and to the Indian armed forces would remain steady, no matter what, the actor wrote. Akshays last release was Kesari based on the Battle of Saragarhi. PTI editorial@tribune.com Manpriya Singh One-odd request from the crowd during a gig and they are gonna judge your town for it. Never mind if it happens to be their very own hometown! Request for a Punjabi or Bollywood number is what they have to deal with almost every night that they are performing. In conversation with artistes that you either ran in the other day or might just bump into at the next musical gig in town! Charting his course Its been more than a decade since Dhruv Angrish has been actively contributing to the live music scenario in Chandigarh; having been performing at Peddlers, S Cafe, Backroom; some old, some new but almost all the places, you name it. Personally, it all started with an audition at 10 Downing Street. They were auditioning for a gig and I got selected, shares the 29-year-old with a traditional degree in electrical engineering. I worked for three years, but then this was it for me. Making his own music since 2008, he is currently the lead vocalist and the front man in the four-member band Dhruv Angrish Collective. We shuttle genres like Punk rock, alternate, are also doing Hindi, Retro, Sufi and Bollywood. Ask about what it is like playing to the audience in Chandigarh and he says, The commercial chartbusters are the most requested. Ultimately the discography is, Half of my choice and half of theirs. He adds, But I always ask the audience before playing my original stuff and mostly they are receptive. Able crew Mention audience requests and Navdeep, from the rap crew comprising him along with his brother Lucky, KRU 172 has an interesting experience to share. We performed about two tracks and someone from the audience said, Yaar Kuch Punjabi Laga Do Na. The funny things, he points out, Is that this despite the fact that we were rapping only in Punjabi. One of their best gigs happened to be at Social, in the city last winter. The crowd was singing along. Since hip hop is slightly different from other genres, performances almost invariably comprise the artistes original compositions and its been so right from the time when he had his first gig at the opening of a club Black Magic in DT Mall. Part of the job There is a reason why Sikander Kahlon has lately been preferring gigs outside the city. Currently taking a break from gigs, courtesy his own impending album, he has a similar funny incident to share from Ludhiana. We played a set, repeated it and somebody said, if we could play Sidhu Moosewala, he cant stop laughing as he recalls pleasing the audience is just as much a part of the job and the one that goes with the turf. Adds the music producer as well as vocalist, So we did play some Punjabi numbers that we could do justice to. Its been precisely a decade of juggling music production and performances. I write my own lyrics; social, sad, romantic, says the Punjabi rapper, who has two more crewmates as a part of the crew KKG. A mainstream platform for offbeat artistes is just what the music industry needs to break away from the monopolistic record labels. Not to forget that tapping into local artistes is actually introducing the audience to diversity rather than the other way round. But fortunately the current generation has listened to artistes like Drake and they understand hip hop and several other genres. manpriya@tribunemail.com Aditya Mukherjee Aditya Mukherjee Back in the eighties, when I was a student of humanities, anybody getting around 60-65% in aggregate in the boards was a big cause for celebration. I secured second division. In fact, the very mention of first division meant that the student was really diligent. Sweets would be distributed by exultant parents in the neighbourhood. Humanities was generally considered low scoring and many would quip that to score good marks in this discipline was akin to boiling the ocean! Even a second division was considered no mean feat. It was widely assumed that the student had put his nose to the grindstone to secure good marks. But now we are living in the age of percentage. With each passing year, the 90% and above brigade is just going up, especially in wonder of wonders humanities. The amount of media limelight these toppers steal is mind-boggling. They become overnight celebrities on social media as well. The flip side, however, is not difficult to fathom. The unimaginably liberal marking system, even in disciplines like humanities, which is mostly analytical in nature, defies explanation. Full marks in maths and science are par for the course. But now, we are inured to the spectacle of seeing students scoring full marks in subjects like political science, history, economics and even psychology. No wonder, these days, students from humanities mostly emerge toppers at the all-India level, pipping science students. But in this lemming-like madness, students scoring less percentage are falling by the wayside. Is todays education system encouraging a healthy competitive streak among students or making success the be all and end all of school life? The jury seems to be out on this. If a student secures 60-65% in humanities in the boards, which is in the category of first division, it is not considered commendable by any means. He/she also cannot even dream of getting admission to a good college in a regular course. They are marked out as incompetent and mediocre. Many students even slip into depression. It has not been proved yet that students securing fewer marks than so-called toppers are not the sharpest knife in the drawer or devoid of grey cells. There are also numerous instances of late bloomers who were otherwise mediocre students in school. Perhaps, this Darwinian battle for supremacy in percentage has been triggered by the urge to get into a good college. While there is no denying the amount of hard work and sincerity involved in scoring 90% and above in the final board examination, the question is, how many of these toppers are really that successful in the choppy waters of practical life, which is a different kettle of fish altogether? laxmi@tribune.com Aditi Tandon Tribune News Service Gwalior, May 8 A confident Rahul Gandhi today said the Congress-led UPA alliance would form the next government at the Centre and that all like-minded anti-BJP parties were in touch with each other for post-election strategising. In a freewheeling exclusive interview to The Tribune en route to Gwalior where he had to address election rallies, the Congress president said Prime Minister Narendra Modi stood demolished and was no longer the political force he was made out to be, and that the Congress has closed all doors for Modi and he has no escape route. We have outmanoeuvred him. He is scared. He is seeing all doors closing on him. Hes worried, Gandhi said, projecting eight to 10 seats for the BJP in the key state of Uttar Pradesh where it had won 71 in 2014. Asked what gave him the confidence to proclaim victory for the Congress and allies, Gandhi said, Theres an undercurrent of anger against Prime Minister Modi. The people I am meeting are saying this. Even people in the BJP are saying inko to hataana hai (Modi has to be removed). The Gandhi scion, however, left the question of prime ministership open, refusing to comment on whether he would be the Prime Minister since he was predicting a Congress-led dispensation. He was non-committal even when asked if he would follow in his mother and former Congress chief Sonia Gandhis footsteps by declining the PMs job, or whether he was ready for that. The decision of who is going to become the Prime Minister is in the hands of the people of India. They will decide on May 23, what ideology they choose and whom they choose. I am no one to second guess that, Gandhi said. Insisting on Opposition unity in Uttar Pradesh, where anti-BJP parties fought against each other, Gandhi said the like-minded parties were united in UP. He said all anti-BJP parties were in conversation about post-poll scenarios. Gandhi described Prime Minister Modis nationalism pitch as mere excuses, adding that the Congress had closed all doors on him (PM Modi) and he now had no escape or excuses. Asked about PM Modis attacks on his late father and former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi over anti-Sikh riots, he said justice should be done 100 per cent and all the guilty should be punished. Asked if it would have been good for him to join the UPA-II government led by PM Manmohan Singh, Gandhi said he did not regret his decisions. He also said there was never any decision to field his sister Priyanka Gandhi Vadra in elections. On failing to forge an alliance in Delhi, the Congress president said it was only after the Arvind Kejriwal-led Aam Aadmi Party changed alliance goal posts that the Congress decided not to ally. They had agreed to four Delhi seats for them, three for us. When I came back to AAP, Kejriwal said we want Haryana and Punjab too. After which, we decided not to tie up, Gandhi said, refuting the Opposition charge that the Congress was arrogant. Fighting as an alliance The UPA is fighting as an alliance. We have an internal, ongoing conversation with our partners, we also have like-minded parties... we have worked with them throughout the election. So that process is ongoing shalender@tribune.com Tribune News Service Lucknow, May 8 BSP president Mayawati today accused the BJP of disregarding civil and gracious values by casting aspersions on her relationship with her mahagathbandhan partner, Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav. Addressing a joint rally at Rani ki Sarai, Azamgarh, in Akhileshs support, Mayawati said their relationship was of the marginalised for social change. Turning the tables on PM Modis recent attempts to drive a wedge between her and her alliance partners, Mayawati said the mahagathbandhan would not break until it ousted Modi and UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. Urging the people of Azamgarh to ensure a historic victory for Akhilesh, Mayawati emotionally appealed to the crowds that they should consider that their Behenji is the Azamgarh candidate. She also hit out at the BJPs divide-and-rule policy of fielding another Yadav, Bhojpuri star Nirahua, against Akhilesh. Describing PM Modi as a fake OBC, she said the people of Purvanchal, inhabited by the most marginalised, should not fall into his trap by such claims and ensure that his acche din lad gaye hain (his good days are over). Mayawati also slammed the Congress and said both national parties were two sides of the same coin and were against reservation for the Dalits and the OBC as enshrined in the Constitution. Akhilesh Yadav claimed that the mahagathbandhan had received tremendous support in the five phases. Besides asking the voters to take away the chowki of the chowkidar, he appealed to people to rid the country of the Baba CM describing him as thokedar who openly asks the police to thoko (knock down) people. Rashtriya Lok Dal chief Ajit Singh said the crestfallen face and abusive language of the PM was an indication enough that he fears that his good days are over. Azamgarh, where the mahagathbandhan is in a direct contest with the BJP, is going to polls on May 12. rajivbhatia82@gmail.com New Delhi, May 9 Leaders of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) on Thursday attacked the Congress and its leader Sam Pitroda for the latter's remarks on the 1984 anti-Sikh riots. Earlier on Thursday, Indian Oversees Congress chief Pitroda brushed off the 1984 anti-Sikh riots, saying, "84 mein hua to hua" (It happened in 1984, so what?) Reacting to the comment, SAD leader Manjinder Singh Sirsa said that Congress' anti-Sikh mentality was clearly visible in Pitroda's remark. BJP leader Prakash Javadekar demanded that Congress President Rahul Gandhi and UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi should apologise for Pitroda's remarks. Javdekar said: "Today Pitroda said a shocking thing which nobody could expect. It is absolutely unacceptable and we, as a country, can not accept it. Sonia and Rahul should apologise for his remarks." Sirsa, on the other hand, said that Congress' mentality has not changed even after 35 years. "The Congress has yet again proved that its mentality against the Sikhs has not changed. Today Pitroda said '1984 has happened, so what?' He must have not lost anyone from his family." Sirsa further said, "He (Rahul Gandhi) keeps on saying that his father (Rajiv Gandhi) and grandmother (Indira Gandhi) were assassinated. And Pitroda is saying so what if the riots happened. Six thousand people were killed in the anti-Sikh riots. Our daughters and sisters were raped. And now, instead of giving us justice, you have kept the culprits with you. Pitroda has proved today that Gandhi family's heart is full of hatred against the Sikhs." --IANS gspannu7@gmail.com Jaipur, May 9 The fifth accused in the Alwar gang rape case has been arrested from Mathura, police said on Thursday, even as opposition parties held protests against the Rajasthan Government for allegedly covering up the matter due to the ongoing Lok Sabha polls. A judicial magistrate recorded the victims statement on Thursday under CrPC Section 164, DSP (Alwar Rural) Jagmohan Sharma said. The accused, Hansraj Gurjar, was arrested on Wednesday night, while search for the prime accused, Chhote Lal Gurjar, is still on, the DSP said. Four other accusedIndra Raj Gurjar, Ashok Gurjar, Mahesh Gurjar and Mukesh Gurjarhave been arrested so far, the police officer said. The gang rape evoked sharp criticism from all sections of the society, with political parties holding protests in various parts of the state, including Ajmer, Alwar, Swai Madhopur and Churu. They cornered the Rajasthan Government for allegedly covering up the matter due to Lok Sabha elections in the state. BJP leaders went to the Collectorate Circle on Thursday to present a memorandum to the district collector, but he was not available. We had taken prior permission and time in written from district collector to present the memorandum but he was not available. It is a serious issue. People want to know who had given the order to cover up the matter during elections, BJP MP Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore said. BJP state president Madan Lal Saini termed it a gruesome crime and a blot on the state. Why was timely action not taken in the matter? The case was covered up considering the loss in the Lok Sabha election. Those Congress leaders who gave the order to cover up the case are equal criminals, he claimed. On April 26, the woman was going to a place from her village on a motorcycle with her husband when the accused, who were on two bikes, stopped them on Thanagazi-Alwar bypass and took them to an isolated place off the road. They beat the husband and raped her in front of him, threatening them of dire consequences. Mukesh Gurjar filmed the incident in his mobile phone. The victims went to the police when the accused demanded money for not circulating the video on social media, but the FIR was lodged on May 2. PTI shalender@tribune.com Debra (WB), May 8 West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee today accused Prime Minster Narendra Modi of running a fascist government in the country, and drew a parallel between her campaign against the BJP and the Quit India Movement of 1942. Addressing a rally, the Trinamool Congress (TMC) supremo said the PM and his party would be shown the door after the Lok Sabha elections. Someone has to bell the cat. In 1942, the Quit India movement was launched against the British, now we are fighting to oust a fascist Modi from power, she said. Banerjee said Modi, if he retained power, would destroy the constitutional fabric and no elections would be held in future. There will be no freedom or democracy in the country if Modi is voted to power again. It is time we show the door to Modi and the BJP. Its time this government is buried during this democratic exercise (elections), she said. She claimed people were scared of expressing their opinion in public. There is an emergency-like situation in the country. Nobody can speak out in public as they are scared of him... Stop this fascism and terror, she said. The TMC boss also insisted that Modi never visited Bengal during crises. You will get a big rosogolla (zero seats) in Bengal, she said. She alleged that Modi had lied when he said he was once a chaiwala (tea seller). From chaiwala, he has become a chowkidar (watchman). We do not want a chowkidar who tells lies. Modi had promised achhe din (good times) after coming to power. What happened in reality is that the prices of petrol and diesel have gone up and minorities and adivasis no longer feel safe in the face of incessant attacks, the TMC leader said. India is in danger under the Modi-led government, she alleged. We want leaders like Mahatma Gandhi, Netaji Subhas Bose, Ambedkar, Rajendra Prasad and Swami Vivekananda. They (the BJP), however, talk about Nathruam Godse and not of Gandhiji, she added. In Jungalmahal, she said the forested tribal area of the state, were afraid of both CPM and the naxals during the Left Front rule. But the scenario has changed in the area, which comrpise Jhargram, West Midnapore, Bankura and Purulia districts, Banerjee said at an election rally at Kotshila in Purulia district. Banerjee, who had spearheaded the anti-land acquisition movements at Singur and Nandigram, said that her government would protect the rights of adivasis including their claim over land. PTI shalender@tribune.com Jitendra K Shrivastava Tribune News Service Ranchi, May 8 BJP president Amit Shah today promised that infiltrators would be thrown out of the country if the saffron party was re-voted to power as the countrys defence was its top priority. Addressing a rally in Dhanbad in Jharkhand, Shah said: The infiltrators would be picked up right from Jammu and Kashmir to Kanyakumari and from Kolkata to Katchh, and will be thrown out of the country if BJP is voted back to power at the Centre. In Manmohan-Sonia government that ruled for 10 years, Aalia-Malia-Jamalia intruded and beheaded our jawans but the then PM remained silent. But for the Modi government, national security is the top priority. Attacking Congress chief Rahul Gandhi, Shah said: Modiji brought NRC in Assam and earmarked 40 lakh infiltrators who are like termites. But when it reached Rajya Sabha, Rahul baba and company kicked off crying out for the sake of human rights. Where was this concern when these infiltrators killed our jawans and their wives suffered? Shah reiterated that the BJP wanted to remove Article 370 from Jammu and Kashmir but the Congress wanted to remove sedition laws. I want to ask Rahul that if people are caught conspiring against India, they will be sent to jail under which law? he said. On one hand, you have Modi, who did not take a single leave in 20 years. On the other, you have Rahul, who goes on long vacation to places, leaving his mother worried about his whereabouts, he said. He claimed what the Modi government did for the welfare of the poor in five years, the Congress could not achieve in 55 years. He claimed that the UPA government had given Rs 55,253 crore for the development of Jharkhand, whereas the Modi government had allocated Rs 3,07,523 crore in just past five years. Along with this, several other central-sponsored schemes were also launched for the states development, he said. The BJP has fielded Pashupati Nath Singh against mahagathbandhans Kirti Azad who recently joined the Congress. amansharma@tribunemail.com Ajay Banerjee Tribune News Service New Delhi, May 9 A former Commanding officer, of INS Viraat, the Indian Navy aircraft carrier, on Thursday said Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi had visited the Viraat on an official visit in 1987 and not on a holiday, no foreign nationals were on board the warship that day. This contradicts the claim of Prime Minister Narendra Modi made at an election rally in New Delhi last evening where he said INS Viraat was used as a private taxi by Rajiv Gandhi for himself and his in-laws (Italian citizens). Vice Admiral Vinod Pasricha (retd), who was commanding the INS Viraat when Rajiv Gandhi visited the aircraft carrier, spoke to the Tribune over phone from Pune saying, It was an official visit. The PM (Rajiv), Sonia Gandhi and Rahul (then in his early teens) were picked up on a helicopter from Trivandrum and they sailed to Lakshadweep Islands for a meeting of the Islands development authority (IDA). The islands did not have a landing strip and going by ship was only option, he added. It was an overnight journey and the Prime Minister often spends a day on warships, including aircraft carriers. Meanwhile, Admiral L Ramdass (a former Navy Chief) and the Southern Navy Commander has issued a statement saying he was on board INS Viraat that day and there were no foreigners. The PM and his spouse are allowed to use service aircraft and helicopters on official duties, he added. Meanwhile, Modi himself visited the latest aircraft carrier INS Vikramaditya in June 2014 and again in December 2015 and both times he was flown in a helicopter from Goa to land on the ship deck. A press statement issued by the press information bureau on June 14, 2014 details Modis visit. On arrival at the Naval Air Station INS Hansa (Goa), the Prime Minister was received by Admiral RK Dhowan and accorded a ceremonial Guard of Honour. Thereafter, Shri Modi embarked the aircraft carrier at sea by helicopter, the statement said. rchopra@tribunemail.com New Delhi, May 9 The Congress on Thursday hit back at Prime Minister Narendra Modi for alleging that the late Rajiv Gandhi used INS Viraat as a personal taxi on a family vacation, saying he is a serial liar who did not have the courage to fight elections on issues such as unemployment and demonetisation. Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera said retired Indian Navy Vice Admiral Vinod Pasricha had clarified that the then PM Rajiv Gandhi was on an official visit on INS Viraat and not on a vacation. But facts dont matter to Modi. He doesnt have anything to talk about his own achievements. Rahul Gandhi has been challenging him for the past six months now to debate on the Rafale deal, demonetisation and unemployment, but Modi does not have the courage to speak, he said at a press conference. Taking a swipe at Modi for making allegations against Rajiv Gandhi who is no more, Khera said had any one read about former prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru saying his next election would be against Mughal emperor Humayun, or Indira Gandhi making her entire campaign against Queen Victoria. We are now hearing that Modi ji tells us that 30 years ago Rajiv Gandhi went for a holiday in INS Viraat. The Prime Minister is a serial liar. A senior official has exposed his lies today. Vice Admiral Vinod Pasricha (retd) appeared on channels some time back and said that this is a lie and the then PM was on an official visit and not on a holiday, he said. Khera said Modi is the first PM who asked for votes on his failures and Pulwama was an example of this. It was a big intelligence failure. We lost our soldiers due to this monumental failure in internal security, Khera alleged. The Congress leader also dared Modi to name the people he took on foreign trips. We have seen the campaign, there has been no mention of demonetisation. But you tremble when it is mentioned and hide behind Rajiv Gandhi, he said. Khera also slammed the Prime Minister for raising the Bofors issue saying it was a BJP-led government at the Centre when the Delhi High Court gave the clean chit to Rajiv Gandhi. It was Atal Bihari Vajpayees government that decided against appealing the order, he said. We will debate on Bofors provided you are ready to debate on Rafale, Khera said. Those who are no more cannot come and respond to you. Have the courage to respond to those who are there to fight you and are challenging you to a debate on the Rafale, unemployment, demonetisation and rural distress on faulty implementation of the GST, he said. Earlier, senior Congress leader Ahmed Patel said abusing a martyred Prime Minister is the sign of ultimate cowardice. Rajiv ji lost his life due to their hatred and is no longer here amongst us to answer the baseless allegations and abuses which are being unleashed on him. Abusing a martyred PM is the sign of ultimate cowardice, Patel tweeted. But who is responsible for his assassination? The BJP-backed VP Singh government refused to provide him additional security and left him with one PSO despite credible intelligence inputs and repeated requests, he alleged. Modi, at a rally on Wednesday accused the Gandhi family of using warship INS Viraat as its personal taxi for a holiday when Rajiv Gandhi was at the helm, launching a fresh attack on the late Congress leader days after throwing the bhrashtachari no 1 barb at him. Ever imagined that a premier warship of the Indian armed forces could be used as a taxi for a personal holiday? One dynasty did it, Modi had said. The Navy was made to host the Gandhi family and Rajiv Gandhis in-laws, and a helicopter was also deployed in their service, Modi had claimed, adding that when a family became supreme, the countrys security was at stake. INS Viraat was insulted by using it as a personal taxi. This happened when Rajiv Gandhi and his family was out for a 10-day vacation. INS Viraat was deployed for securing our maritime boundary. But it was diverted to take the Gandhi family which was out for a vacation, Modi had said. Congress leaders, including president Rahul Gandhi and general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, have hit out at Modi for his barb at their father, who was the prime minister from 1984-89. PTI rchopra@tribunemail.com New Delhi, May 9 The Supreme Court on Thursday dismissed pleas of families of those killed along with former prime minister Rajiv Gandhi in 1991, objecting to the Tamil Nadu governments 2014 decision to release seven convicts in the case. A bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi said, All aspects were covered in the earlier constitution bench verdict in the case and, therefore, nothing survives in the case. In 2014, the then J Jayalalithaa-led government had decided to release the seven convicts. Gandhi was assassinated by a suicide bomber in Sriperumbudur in Tamil Nadu on May 21, 1991. PTI rchopra@tribunemail.com Lucknow, May 9 A sum of Rs 24 lakh, allegedly belonging to Raj Kishore Singh, the Congress candidate from Basti in Uttar Pradesh, was seized from a vehicle in Basti on Thursday. The SUV carried a pass issued in the name of Raj Kishore Singh and officials said the money was apparently being taken for distribution among voters. Basti Superintendent of Police MP Chaturvedi, who headed the flying squad, said two men who were in the vehicle had been arrested and were being interrogated. Basti goes to the polls on May 12. IANS amansharma@tribunemail.com New Delhi, May 9 The Supreme Court is scheduled to hear on Friday the issues relating to decades-old, politically sensitive, Ayodhyas Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid land dispute case which was referred to mediation for exploring the possibility of an amicable settlement. A notice was put up on the apex court website which said the matter will be heard by a five-judge Constitution bench comprising Chief justice Ranjan Gogoi and Justices S A Bobde, D Y Chandrachud, Ashok Bhushan and S Abdul Nazeer. The matter will come up for the first time on Friday since March 8 order of the top court which had referred the case for mediation to a panel headed by former apex court judge F M I Kalifulla. Spiritual guru and founder of Art of Living foundation Sri Sri Ravishankar and senior advocate Sriram Panchu, a renowned mediator, are the other two members of the panel of mediators. The apex court had said the mediation process would commence within a week and the panel would submit the progress report within four weeks. The panel was asked by the apex court to hold in-camera proceedings and complete them within eight weeks. The Constitution bench had said it does not find any legal impediment to make a reference to mediation for a possible settlement of the dispute. The bench was told earlier by Hindu bodies, except for Nirmohi Akhara, and Uttar Pradesh government that they oppose the courts suggestion for mediation. The Muslim bodies supported the proposal. While opposing the suggestion of mediation, Hindu bodies had argued that earlier attempts of reaching a compromise have failed and provisions of Civil Procedure Code (CPC) require public notice to be issued before the start of process. The top court had directed that the mediation proceedings should be conducted with utmost confidentiality for ensuring its success and the views expressed by any of the parties including the mediators should be kept confidential and not be revealed to any other person. However, it had refrained from passing any specific restrain order at this stage and instead empowered the mediators to pass necessary orders in writing, if so required, to restrain publication of the details of the mediation proceedings. The top court had fixed the seat for mediation process in Faizabad of Uttar Pradesh, 7 km from Ayodhya, and said the adequate arrangements, including the venue of the mediation, place of stay of the mediators, their security and travel, should be forthwith arranged by the state government so that proceedings could commence immediately. It had also directed that the mediation proceedings be held in-camera as per the norms applicable to conduct the mediation proceedings. Fourteen appeals have been filed in the apex court against the 2010 Allahabad High Court judgment, delivered in four civil suits, that the 2.77-acre land in Ayodhya be partitioned equally among the three partiesthe Sunni Waqf Board, the Nirmohi Akhara and Ram Lalla. On December 6, 1992, the Babri Masjid, constructed at the disputed site in the 16th century by Shia Muslim Mir Baqi, was demolished. PTI monicakchauhan@gmail.com Thane, May 9 A 23-year-old woman working in the film industry has alleged that a man raped her on the pretext of marriage and forcibly chopped off her hair after they had a fight during a visit to Goa, a police official said. Based on the woman's complaint, the Thane police in Maharashtra on Wednesday booked the man, identified as Amit Shelar, a resident of Wangani area here, he said. The woman, who is associated with casting in films, in her complaint said she met the accused about two-and-half years back. The two became friends and soon started living together at a house in Wangani, the official at Kulgaon police station said. However, she later got to know about some of his other affairs and when she asked him about it, he fought with her, the official said. She alleged that during their stay together, the accused raped her several times on the pretext of marriage, but later went back on his promise, he said. On May 3, the duo went to stay at a hotel in Goa where they again had a quarrel following which the accused allegedly abused the woman, forcibly chopped off her hair and left her there, the official said. On returning from Goa, the woman lodged a complaint, based on which the accused was booked under IPC Sections 376 (rape), 323 (voluntarily causing hurt), 504 (intentional insult with an intent to provoke breach of peace) and 506 (criminal intimidation), he said, adding that no arrest was made so far. PTI shalender@tribune.com Aditi Tandon in Gwalior Congress president Rahul Gandhi spoke exclusively to The Tribune on Wednesday on a range of issues en route to Gwalior where he had three election rallies. Excerpts: The Lok Sabha elections are winding up. Who is forming the next government? The Congress-led UPA will form the next government. I think there is an undercurrent of anger against Narendra Modi and his policies. Youngsters are unable to understand where they will get jobs from. Farmers are struggling with their future. Then there is the devastation that notebandi and the Gabbar Singh Tax have caused to the economy. Corruption is also a big issue. Modi cannot answer even a single question on the Rafale deal. THE TRIBUNE INERVIEW: In touch with like-minded parties, sure of Congress-led UPA victory You seem very confident that the Congress is coming to power with its alliance. Thats the feeling Im getting from the people Im meeting across India and from the energy and enthusiasm of the crowds coming to our rallies and roadshows. Frankly, even people who are in the BJP are saying Modi ko toh hatana hai. In that case, will you be the PM next month? Look, the decision of who is going to become the PM is in the hands of the people of India. They will decide on May 23, what ideology they choose and whom they choose. I am no one to second guess that. I do my work, and Im very clear in my mind what my work is. I want to help India recover from the wholesale hate that Modi has spread in the last five years. Parties have already begun holding post-poll strategy meets. K Chandrasekhar Rao met Left leaders on Tuesday. What are your plans? The UPA is fighting as an alliance. We have an internal, ongoing conversation with our partners. We also have like-minded parties that are not in our alliance but agree with our ideology and we are in touch with them. The BJP has been very aggressive and considering what they did in Goa and Arunachal Pradesh, are you prepared for the post-poll scenario? The BJP is not going to form the government. Its not going to happen. Just in case the numbers dont stack up in the way youre expecting, would you be open to supporting a non-Congress government? Im not going to make any comments on the numbers before I see the numbers. The BJP has made nationalism and national pride their principal poll planks. Is that working? Is having the highest unemployment rate in 45 years a matter of national pride? Modi is responsible for that. Is there any national pride in farmer suicides, an absurd decision like notebandi, a five-tiered GST, constant harassment of shopkeepers, stealing Rs 30,000 crore from the public in Rafale? How can you (BJP) talk about national pride? We understand that national security is a very important issue and the Congress has an impeccable record on that front. It wasnt the Congress that sent Masood Azhar back to Pakistan. We didnt put our minister on the aircraft to Kandahar. We didnt pay Jaish-e-Mohammad money and release their leader. Modi should explain to India why his party released Masood Azhar and sent him back to Pakistan. Why he was unable to stop deaths of our CRPF men. Look, I understand that Pakistan will try and do whatever mischief it can, but its the responsibility of the PM to counter that mischief. And the PM says there have been no terrorist attacks in the last five years, I dont know what hes talking about. Which country is he talking about? What planet is he living on? Pulwama happened during his time. Uri happened during his time. Pathankot happened during his time. Maoists have been killing people during his time. So you think he uses nationalism as a prop? Mr Modi makes excuses. According to him, he has never done anything wrong in his life. He has never failed either! He is all-knowing, according to himself. To maintain that image, he will come up with all sorts of excuses. But he is not going to be able to escape with excuses this time. And that is why he is abusing my family in panic. He is actually a sentiment. Hes the sentiment of anger and fear within people. Thats what he actually represents. So when you get angry, and when you have anger in you, that is Mr Modi. That is the sentiment. My job is to remove that anger. I respond to that anger with love and affection. So when Mr Modi gets angry with me and insults my family, and anger rises in me, or in a sense when the Modi in me rises, I recognise it for what it is worth and I erase it immediately. Thats what Im doing; its an internal process as well. Its about curbing my irritation and anger and turning it into love and affection. Thats the nature of this country. Your recent campaign videos show shots of cremation of late PMs Indira Gandhi and Rajiv Gandhi. Do you think the Congress did not do enough to establish the martyrdom of these leaders? Were not in the business of selling the martyrdom of our martyred. There is nothing secret about their lives. We are not thekedaars of the past. We must stay focussed on the present. Today, India is facing a massive challenge. Yes, Indiraji and Rajivji sacrificed their lives for this country. But their sacrifices are not going to solve our problems today. So I dont want to get sucked into a conversation about the past. Thats a distraction. Your poll slogans, suit, boot ki sarkar and chowkidar chor hai are catchy. How far do you get involved in coining these? Suit boot sarkar is a retort I came up with in Parliament. But chowkidar chor hai actually came from the public. In a speech in Chattisgarh I said chowkidar ne rozgaar nahi diya, chowkidar ne kisan ko kuch nahi diya and there were five-seven youngsters who yelled Chowkidar chor hai! There is a sentiment inside the people that the chowkidar is actually a thief. Do you think your apology in the Supreme Court today takes some sheen off the slogan? No it certainly does not! The apology is to the Supreme Court and the reason I apologised to the SC, is because it was wrong of me to pre-judge a process of the SC. But I am not apologising to Mr Modi or to anyone else. The slogan is just as strong. Do you think the PMs recent comments on your late father Rajiv Gandhi are in response to your chowkidar chor hai campaign? No, hes scared! Hes basically been outmanoeuvred. Frankly, hes not the political force he was made out to be. Weve demolished him. Now , hes abusing me. And Im absorbing that abuse. He has taught me how to react to hatred. So he has done me a big service. The last five years Ive realised you cant cut hatred with hatred. You have to cut hatred with love and thats the gift Mr Modi has given me. And thats why I have love for him. I thank him for giving me this gift. It has changed my life. You dont get angry? You never get angry? Very rarely. Sometimes I do get irritated and angry, but I wash it off really soon. The Delhi and Punjab elections are due and the PM is raising the anti-Sikh riot issue. How do you respond to this? I love the people of Punjab, who supported us in the hardest times. Whatever pains the people of Punjab, pains me. My job is to deepen the love between the people of Punjab and the Congress, its leaders and myself. In many ways, Punjab is the heart of India. It gives direction to this country, it shows this country how to live together, how to work hard. Recently, the state gave us a huge mandate. I want to say that Im extremely fond of and have great respect for the Sikhs. I love their way of being, their industrious spirit, their great saints and leaders. I have learnt a tremendous amount from their gurus. Do you have a message for the victims of the anti-Sikh riots as justice hasnt been done? Justice must be given 100%. Anybody who has done anything must be punished. Its your first Lok Sabha poll after you took over as Congress chief. Does it make you nervous? Do I look nervous? No, Im not. Because Im of the view that one has to work. And one works and whatever result comes, one is happy with that. So I dont get nervous. I see myself as somebody who is working in the interest of the people of India. Whats the composition of your core team? I take advice from many people. I have senior people who I listen to a lot, I have junior people, there are workers in the party whose advice I value. You repeatedly said throughout the last year that your goal is to primarily defeat Modi but... My goal is to actually remove the anger and hatred that has been spread in India over the last 5 years. And Mr Narendra Modi is the symbol of that. So I want to help bring the nation together. There was an expectation that Priyanka Gandhi Vadra would contest from UP There was no expectation. I was clear. Should you win both Amethi and Wayanad. Will Priyanka Gandhi Vadra contest Amethi? Let the election be over. Once it is over, that decision will be made. Can you comment on the Backops controversy and your dual citizenship? Ive said that the PM is the PM, he can investigate whatever he wants. Its an open book. If Ive done anything wrong please punish me. But also, do me a favour, investigate Rafale! Please tell us about the Rafale kickback. Also, Ive challenged him repeatedly to a debate. But he hasnt responded. In Punjab, top guns have been fielded by the BJP and the Akali Dal, could Manpreet Badal and Navjot Singh Sidhu not have been in the fray? We have left the candidate selection to the local party unit and weve put up a very strong set of candidates who will do extremely well. I think were going to sweep Punjab. Leaders like Mayawati, Kejriwal and Akhilesh Yadav have attributed the failure of an anti-BJP pre-poll alliance to Congress arrogance. How can you say they will still work with you post-poll? The Congress is not arrogant. In fact in both UP and Delhi, we were ready to form an alliance. We wanted to do UP, but the SP and the BSP felt that they wanted to fight alone. So we said okay fine, fight alone. In Delhi, we had a discussion with AAP. They had agreed to a 4-3 seat sharing, but Kejriwal said we want Haryana and Punjab too. After which, we decided not to tie up. Smriti Irani calls you an absentee MP in Amethi. Your response? The people of Amethi know that I am with them, that I have worked for them, that I am grateful for their love and support, and it is only their opinion and their voice that truly matters to me. In hindsight would it have been better for you to join UPA-II led by PM Manmohan Singh in some capacity? I dont regret any of my past actions or decisions. On next PM of the country It is not my place to second guess the people of India (on their choice of next PM). They are the masters, whatever they decide I will abide by it. They are very wise, whatever order they give, I will abide by it. On overcoming challenges If we have differences, lets work on them together we have challenges in front of one another that we need to overcome. Jobs, farmers distress are not easy challenges and we are only going to overcome them if we work together. On BJP share in UP poll pie Secular parties are going to win the largest number of seats there (in UP). We are basically going to demolish the BJP in UP. Projections that Im reading these days say the BJP is winning not more than 8-10 seats in UP. editorial@tribune.com Tribune News Service Faridkot/Muktsar, May 8 Various Panthic organisations, led by parallel jathedars Dhian Singh Mand and Baljit Singh Daduwal today started a protest march from Bargari in Faridkot to Badal village in Muktsar. Daduwal said, We will make people aware as to how the Badal family misused religion for their narrow political interests. We will give a call to the people not to vote for any SAD candidate, particularly in Bathinda and Ferozepur. As the march reached Badal village, unruly scenes were witnessed as supporters of Daduwal and Sukhjit Singh Khosa, chief, Guru Granth Sahib Satkar Committee. The activists clashed and took out kirpans that too outside former CM Parkash Singh Badals residence in the village. Badal was present at his house at that time. The clash erupted over the issue of addressing the dharna. While Daduwal said all Panthic leaders would address the gathering, but Khosa said only a few should speak due to shortage of time. The situation was controlled after the intervention of some other Sikh activists. A large number of cops were present at the spot, but they did not intervene. The protesters raised slogans against Badals, accusing them of perpetrating sacrilege incidents in 2015. After lodging the protest for almost an hour, the protesters dispersed after announcing that they would lodge a protest in Ferozepur on May 14. Manjit Singh Dhesi, SSP, Muktsar, said, We have registered a case against some by name and some unidentified under Section 307 (attempt to murder) IPC, besides other sections for clashing with cops. However, nobody has lodged a complaint regarding the scuffle between the protesters themselves. editorial@tribune.com Hoshiarpur: District Electoral Officer Isha Kalia has announced a series of measures to ensure hassle-free participation of voters with visual disabilities in polling process. She said visually impaired voters would be provided with Braille enabled voter slips and pick and drop facility would be given to the physically challenged persons. The ballot paper pasted on the voting machine with name and symbol of candidates would also be in Braille. The system would be used for the first time. OC Bir Devinder for defence varsity at Nangal Ropar: Former Punjab Deputy Speaker and SAD (Taksali) candidate from Anandpur Sahib Bir Devinder Singh said if he became an MP it would be his priority to set up a Sri Guru Gobind Singh Defence University in the constituency to impart strategic training in the various streams of defence studies. He said he would take all necessary steps to ensure the early establishment of such a university. As there was ample land available in Nangal, it could be an ideal location for setting up the university as it would require at least 100 acres, he said. tns SAD women wing leader joins Congress Fatehgarh Sahib: Istri Akali Dal district chief Manpreet Kaur Hundal on Wednesday joined the Congress. Cabinet minister Balbir Singh Sidhu welcomed her. Manpreet said she was impressed by the works done by Bassi Pathana MLA Gurpreet Singh GP and wanted to work for society under his leadership. She said she was banking on CM Capt Amarinder Singh to do justice with the Guru by punishing those who committed sacrilege acts. OC Will support SAD in LS polls: Longowal Patiala: Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) chief Gobind Singh Longowal on Wednesday said he would campaign for the SAD in the Lok Sabha polls wherever needed. He was in the city to address the media about the SGPCs plans of celebrating the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak in November. I am a member of the SAD and also of its core committee. I have won from the partys ticket and thus have become the president of SGPC. We will support the party wherever needed. TNS editorial@tribune.com Tribune News service Amritsar, May 8 Warning Pakistan to stop harbouring terrorists, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari today said if the hostile nation failed to act, the Indian government would stop river water flow to Pakistan. He today held a meeting with traders as part of canvassing in support of BJP candidate Hardeep Singh Puri. Talking to mediapersons, he said India planned to build projects to utilise its own share of water on three rivers flowing into Pakistan. We can choke our share of water which flows into Pakistan in order to punish it for continuously encouraging terror activities against India, he said. As per the Indus Water Treaty, of the six rivers flowing between Pakistan and India, both nations got three rivers each. The water which is ours is also flowing into Pakistan. We are making six dams to stop that, he said. He also told that SYL water row between Punjab and Haryana was under consideration and would be resolved amicably. shriaya.dutt@tribuneindia.com TORONTO Just over one-third of the world's 246 longest rivers remain free-flowing, according to a study which found that dams and reservoirs are drastically reducing the diverse benefits offered by healthy rivers. A team of international researchers, including those from McGill University in Canada and World Wildlife Fund (WWF), assessed the connectivity status of 12 million kilometers of rivers worldwide. The study, published in the journal Nature, provides the first-ever global assessment of the location and extent of the planet's remaining free-flowing rivers. Researchers determined that only 21 of the world's 91 rivers longer than 1,000 kilometres that originally flowed to the ocean still retain a direct connection from source to sea. The planet's remaining free-flowing rivers are largely restricted to remote regions of the Arctic, the Amazon Basin, and the Congo Basin. "The world's rivers form an intricate network with vital links to land, groundwater, and the atmosphere," said lead author Gunther Grill of McGill's Department of Geography. "Free-flowing rivers are important for humans and the environment alike, yet economic development around the world is making them increasingly rare. "Using satellite imagery and other data, our study examines the extent of these rivers in more detail than ever before," Grill said. Dams and reservoirs are the leading contributors to connectivity loss in global rivers. The study estimates there are around 60,000 large dams worldwide, and more than 3,700 hydropower dams are currently planned or under construction. They are often planned and built at the individual project level, making it difficult to assess their real impacts across an entire basin or region. "Rivers are the lifeblood of our planet," said Michele Thieme, lead freshwater scientist at WWF. "They provide diverse benefits that are often overlooked and undervalued. "This first-ever map of the world's remaining free-flowing rivers will help decision makers prioritise and protect the full value rivers give to people and nature," Thieme said. Healthy rivers support freshwater fish stocks that improve food security for hundreds of millions of people, deliver sediment that keeps deltas above rising seas, researchers said. They also mitigate the impact of extreme floods and droughts, prevent loss of infrastructure and fields to erosion, and support a wealth of biodiversity. Disrupting rivers' connectivity often diminishes or even eliminates these critical ecosystem services. Protecting remaining free-flowing rivers is also crucial to saving biodiversity in freshwater systems. Recent analysis of 16,704 populations of wildlife globally showed that populations of freshwater species experienced the most pronounced decline of all vertebrates over the past half-century, falling on average 83 per cent since 1970, researchers said. The study also notes that climate change will further threaten the health of rivers worldwide. Rising temperatures are already impacting flow patterns, water quality, and biodiversity. As countries around the world shift to low-carbon economies, hydropower planning and development is accelerating, adding urgency to the need to develop energy systems that minimise overall environmental and social impact, researchers said. PTI shalender@tribune.com NEW DELHI, May 8 (PTI)The Prime Minister, Mrs. Indira Gandhi, today warned that any reluctance on the part of the States to raise resources would impair the tempo of development, but reassured them that the Centre might provide them a little more after the Finance Commission made its recommendations. Initiating discussion on the draft Fourth Plan, Mrs. Gandhi said mobilisation of resources had to be shared by the Centre and the States. Each sector had to play its part. In an inconclusive debate that sustained interest throughout, members from both sides of the House, including Mr. Shambu Nath Shukla, Mr. Chandrajeet Yadava, Mr. P.C. Verma (all Congress) and Mr. Sri Chand Goval (J.S.) were critical of growing disparities in individual incomes and regional imbalances. Mr. T. Vishwanatham (Ind) held previous Plans responsible for concentration of wealth. Mrs. Gandhi said the draft Plan broke new ground in the Centre-State relations. The Plan she said, assures reasonable freedom to the States in formulating programmes in relation to their special programmes and needs. vinaymishra188@gmail.com Lahore, May 8 A teenage Taliban suicide bomber blew himself up outside one of Pakistan's oldest and most revered Sufi shrines in Lahore on Wednesday, killing at least 10 persons, including five police commandos, and injuring 25 others as the country marks Ramzan. The powerful blast took place around 8.45 am outside Gate number 2 of the 11th-century Data Darbar shrine, the largest Sufi shrine in South Asia, where the elite police personnel were deployed for security, police said. A CCTV footage showed that a teenage boy wearing black salwar kameez and a suicide vest came closer to the vehicle of elite force and blew himself up. "The suicide bomber is about 15 years old and made no suspected movement before blowing himself up," Lahore police spokesperson Syed Mubashir said. He said over 20 injured are being treated at the Mayo Hospital Lahore, of them the condition of six is said to be critical. He said two suspects have been taken into custody. The Jamaat-ul-Ahrar (JeA), a breakaway faction of the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), claimed the responsibility for the attack. We also heard that Jamaatul Ahrar had claimed the responsibility of the Lahore blast on social media but we cant confirm it before investigation, Mubashir said. Punjab Inspector General Police Arif Nawaz said it was a suicide attack and the target was the vehicle of the elite force that was stationed outside the shrine. He said the suicide bomber came closer to the police vehicle and blew himself up, killing five of them and injuring four others critically. PTI vinaymishra188@gmail.com Islamabad, May 8 Aasia Bibi, a Pakistani Christian woman who was freed from death row by the Pakistan Supreme Court in a blasphemy case last year, has left the country and reached Canada to reunite with her family, according to her lawyer. The 47-year-old mother of four was convicted in 2010 after being accused of insulting Islam in a row with her neighbours. She always maintained her innocence, but has spent most of the past eight years in solitary confinement. Aasia Bibi has left the country. She is a free person and travelled on her independent will, a source in the foreign office was quoted as saying by the Dawn newspaper. Bibis counsel Saiful Malook confirmed that she has reached Canada, the Guardian reported. He said that Bibis safe arrival in Canada was the result of hard work by activists, foreign diplomats and others, who stood by Bibi in hard times and worked for her freedom. The Supreme Court had on October 31 last year acquitted her of blasphemy charges. The judgment triggered protests across Pakistan, with protesters led by Islamic political party Tehreek-i-Labaik Pakistan and other groups blocking major highways and roads in different parts of the country. The British Pakistani Christian Association too said hat they had received confirmation from a British diplomat that Aasia Bibi had safely exited Pakistan. PTI vinaymishra188@gmail.com Tehran, May 8 Iran today said it had stopped respecting limits on its nuclear activities agreed under a 2015 deal with major powers until they find a way to bypass renewed US sanctions. The well-trailed announcement came as Washington stepped up its rhetoric against Tehran, accusing it of planning imminent attacks and deploying an aircraft carrier strike group with several nuclear-capable B-52 bombers to the region. Iran said it was responding to the sweeping unilateral sanctions that Washington has reimposed since it quit the agreement one year ago, which have dealt a severe blow to the Iranian economy. It said it would stop implementing some of the restrictions it had agreed with immediate effect. Tehran said it would abandon more if the remaining parties to the agreement Britain, China, France, Germany and Russia failed to start delivering on their commitments to sanctions relief within 60 days. President Hassan Rouhani underlined that the ultimatum was intended to rescue the nuclear deal from his US counterpart Donald Trump who has repeatedly called for it to be scrapped since he pulled out on May 8, 2018. "We felt the (deal) needed surgery and that the year-long sedatives have not delivered any result. This surgery is meant to save the (deal), not destroy it," Rouhani said at a cabinet meeting broadcast live on state television. Robert Kelley, a former UN nuclear inspector now with the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, said the commitments Iran was dropping had no bearing on its ability to develop an atomic bomb. He said Iran was simply seeking to save face after "striking a deal which was not respected by the other side. Under the landmark deal agreed by Trump's predecessor Barack Obama, the parties to the agreement were supposed to lift nuclear-related sanctions on Iran in return for it reining in its activities to ease fears it was seeking the capability to produce an atomic bomb. But the promised sanctions relief has failed to materialise as European and Asian banks and oil companies have moved swiftly to abide by the renewed US sanctions for fear of financial or commercial repercussions. Rouhani slammed European countries for seeing the US as the world's "sheriff" and said this keeps them from making "firm decisions for their own national interests. AFP US: Tehran moved missiles by boat The decision to send an aircraft carrier and a group of Air Force bombers to the Middle East was based in part on intelligence indications that Iran had moved short-range ballistic missiles by boat in waters off its shores, an American official said The movement was among a range of recent indications that Iran might be considering or preparing to attack US forces in the region, he said The official said it was not clear whether the boats with missiles represented a new military capability that could be used against the US forces or were only being moved to shore locations Russia, Iran blame Washington rchopra@tribunemail.com London, May 9 US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has cancelled a visit to Greenland to return to Washington amid an escalation of tensions with Iran. Pompeo had been due to wrap up a trip to Europe on Thursday with a stop in Greenland aimed at promoting the Trump administrations Arctic policies. Those policies were criticised earlier this week for not containing the words climate change when Pompeo attended an Arctic Council meeting in Finland. The State Department says Pompeo will still order a restoration of a permanent US diplomatic presence in Greenland. The Greenland stop was the second Pompeo cancelled on what was supposed to be a four-nation tour of Europe. On Tuesday, he abruptly dropped a trip to Germany to fly to Baghdad for meetings with Iraqi leaders. AP vinaymishra188@gmail.com New York: Former self-help guru Keith Raniere was a predator who preyed on young women and turned them into sex slaves as part of a cult-like organisation, a prosecutor told a jury. He took advantage of them. He sold himself as the smartest, most ethical personcompared himself to Einstein and Gandhi, the assistant attorney said. The defence lawyer said all women joined his group Nxivm voluntarily and Raniere was merely a tough taskmaster. Raniere, 58, has pleaded not guilty to charges of sex trafficking, child pornography and other crimes. reuters Pamela Anderson visits Assange in prison London: Actress Pamela Anderson met Julian Assange at Belmarsh high-security prison on Tuesday, in his first social visit since he was hauled out of London's Ecuadorian embassy and arrested in April. He does not deserve to be in a super max prison. He has never committed a violent act, he's an innocent person, Anderson said. She claimed the WikiLeaks founder has been 'cut off from everybody', including his children, and does not have access to any information. IANS gspannu7@gmail.com Washington, May 9 The US will not back down until China stops cheating American workers and stealing its jobs, President Donald Trump has said, as a top Chinese official started talks with his American counterparts on a trade deal. Asserting that the era of economic surrender is over, Trump on Wednesday night said that he has announced to increase tariff on about USD 200 billion worth of Chinese products from 10 per cent to 25 per cent. We wont back down until China stops cheating our workers and stealing their jobs and that is whats going to happen. Otherwise, we dont have to do business with them. We dont have to do business. We can make the product right here if we have to like we used to. Remember like we used to, Trump said amidst applause from his supporters in Florida. Trump had agreed to pause his proposed increase in import tariff from China after he and his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping last December agreed to conclude a trade deal in 100 days. The deadline could not be met, but Trump deferred his decision on imposing new tariffs of Chinese products. But after China allegedly went back on its commitment which he had agreed during the negotiations and was incorporated in the trade deal, Trump announced that he is going ahead with new tariffs on import on Chinese products beginning May 10. The era of economic surrender is over, Trump said. The US has a trade imbalance of more than USD 500 billion with China. The last administration signed a disastrous trade deal with South Korea that cost our country nearly 100,000 jobs but it was really 250,000 jobs. And if you remember our secretary of state at the time and our president at the time said this will give 250,000 jobs and he and she were right except it was for South Korea, not for us, he said. Its a loser and we totally renegotiated the Korea trade deal to restore these jobs and rescue the American auto industry because that was going to be a tremendous...And that deal is done, Trump said. Right before I came into office our nation was being signed up for a one-sided single sell out like youve never seen of the American worker and I said its not going to happen; the Trans-Pacific Partnership was going to destroy our automobile industry like youve never seen before and our automobile industry is pouring back into our country, he said. The previous administrations, he alleged, allowed China to freely loot US economy, plunder intellectual property and target industries for destruction. That is what was happening. And look President Xi is a friend of mine, a great guy but hes for China. Im for the USA. Im for the USA, he said. Trump said he is not worried about the fate of the US-China trade negotiations. So we are going to see. They come in tomorrow and whatever happens dont worry about it. It will all work out. You know why? It always does. Dont worry about it. There is no pressure because you know we are the piggy bank that everybody wants to rob, you understand that, he said. So, we have the thing that everybody wants, we are now the biggest market in the world by far. I will tell you China was catching us, Trump said. PTI REFERENCING Charles Dickens A Tale of Two Cities in his Christmas message to the nation yesterday, Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley called for peoplevaccinated and unvaccinatedto acknowledge not only their personal rights but also a duty to care for others. He noted the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic and its impact on the world as he called for a renewal of humanitarian values. FORMER trade unionist, political activist David Abdulah, said in a recent media statement that we ought to treat the mounting Covid-19 dead in a much better way. He suggested their names be elevated from the floor of mere statistics, and that each one of their stories should include their faces and mention of the families from which they came, and the members of those families left behind. Cairns Marine uses the wide-bodied Cathay Pacific planes to send live marine life to public aquariums around the world. Director Lyle Squire told Tropic Now the cargo service is so in demand, its difficult to secure spots. We have animals flying out on every single Cathay flight out of Cairns, he said. Those flights are going out full, with mangoes, food fish, live small fish to sharks, rays and corals and one of the restrictions to our business has been getting product onto those flights and thats why to us, the decision is perplexing. We pride ourselves on providing animals to public aquaria around the world that act as great ambassadors for the Great Barrier Reef and promote awareness of our marine environments and this will be significantly hampered by Cathays departure. However, Mr Squire said he is hopeful a viable alternative can be found. Were very hopeful at the moment that Singapore Airlines may come to town, he said. Im sure there will be additional discussions with Singapore Airlines to try to seek an alternative. I know the sheer volume of product that goes out of this town so theres got to be scope for another carrier to come in and take their place and if there isnt the impacts to the local economy will be vast. The impact to Cairns Marine, which employs more than 70 staff, would include having to send product via Sydney or Melbourne. The problem is accessing wide bodied aircraft and getting into Sydney or Melbourne requires the use of a freight plane which is very rough by comparison to commercial aircraft, which isnt good for the fish, Mr Squire said. It will also increase the transit duration and the longer the flight, the more water and more oxygen is required for each fish, therefore shipping becomes less economical and that impacts on our ability to be competitive on the global stage. Tropic Now also contacted Cairns MP Michael Healy for comment. The birds, for example--where had they gone? Many people spoke of them, puzzled and disturbed. The feeding stations in the backyards were deserted. The few birds seen anywhere were moribund; they trembled violently and could not fly. It was a spring without voices. On the mornings that had once throbbed with the dawn chorus of robins, catbirds, doves, jays, wrens, and scores of other bird voices there was now no sound; only silence lay over the fields and woods and marsh. --Silent Spring Rachel Carson This is the horrifying scene depicted in the first chapter of Rachel Carson's world-renowned book Silent Spring, where the whole community was shrouded by the cloak of death in which creatures were dying, leaving a world without the beautiful chirping and chattering of birds. Rachel Carson, once a marine biologist who achieved great success in marine protection and writing, put pen to paper to fight against the U.S. chemical industry in the 1960s after receiving heart-breaking news from one of her friends that birds were dying out in Massachusetts due to the use of the oxidant pesticide DDT. Carson was first published in the New Yorker in 1962, and her series came out as a book in 1964, igniting great controversy in America. Some prestigious chemical conglomerates, senior scientists and politicians stood opposite her, calling her a romantic "spinster" who was simply overwrought about genetics, a woman "out of control". However, she didn't back down. Along with some close partners and friends from scientific and government fields, she fought back and awakened in the American people the strong desire to know the truth, rousing a nationwide grassroots movement in environmental protection. Under her influence, the U.S. government banned the use of DDT in 1972, and the first human environment meeting was convened in the Swedish capital Stockholm, with 113 nations and 1,300 delegates taking part. All this was owed to the "little woman" who detonated the environmental protection bomb a decade before, igniting an unprecedented flame in the heart of the people to protect the planet in a concerted way for the first time. Though the WHO resumed the use of DDT in 2002 in some areas to deal with some specific diseases, the possible correlation between the use of DDT and cancer, and the awareness raised to respect our nature are the precious legacy left by Rachel Carson. Carson once wrote that we were intoxicated with a sense of our own power and mankind seemed to be going farther and farther towards the destruction of himself and his world. The book she left more than five decades ago still rings true today, reminding us to keep a low-profile in our biological system and be modest to our mother nature. In the year 1972, when the environmental meeting convened in Stockholm, the Chinese mainland was still in the midst of a political storm which had turned the whole country upside down, and the regular production of the country had been greatly affected. Few people knew or cared about the concept of environmental protection and the nation held on to the idea that we were sure to conquer nature. However, due to some serious pollution incidents which had happened during that period and the support of the then-premier Zhou Enlai, the central government started to take the issue seriously and sent a delegation to attend the meeting. In August 1973, China held its first environmental meeting with more than 300 people from different fields. Then in 1983 and 1989, the second and third meeting were held consecutively, with environmental protection established as a basic national policy and specific management systems brought up. From that point, there were many other milestone moments in the history of China's environmental protection, such as the passing of the Law of Environmental Protection in 1979, the revision of the Law in 1989, and a series of specific laws and standards in pollution prevention and management, constituting a relatively full framework of law and regulations. In 1992, the UN held the Conference of Environment and Development in Rio de Janeiro, and after the conference, China issued a document and put forward its first sustainable development strategy concept. Then, in 1995, while formulating the Ninth Five-Year Plan, a sustainable development plan was made a national strategy; meanwhile, an action plan and measures were put in place for China's sustainability. For a decade from 2002 to 2012, the 16th and 17th CPC National Congress put forward the thought to build a moderately prosperous society in an all-round way and made it a main thought to continuously strengthen sustainable development and first raised the strategic task of constructing ecological civilization. From 2012 until today, the 18th CPC National Congress report put ecological civilization construction in a prominent position and raised the idea that green mountains and clear waters are as beneficial as mountains of gold and silver. China started to pursue high-quality over quantity, achieving remarkable results in the construction of an ecological civilization. China has seen great achievement in environmental protection in the last few years. According to a paper published by Boston University researchers in 2019, after studying remote sensing data collected by NASA satellites from the year 2000 to 2017, the world is a greener place than it was 20 years ago, with green coverage rising by 5 percent, of which China contributed about a quarter, dominating the greening of the planet alongside India. China, along with other countries, is trying to make up for the time we have lost and correct mistakes we have made in previous decades. However, are we as optimistic as we should be about our future? In the 2019 Chinese blockbuster Wandering Earth, we see our earth buried in snow and ice, and most lives have been wiped out due to the arrival of the Ice Age as a result of global warming caused by humans. In the movie, it's believed that environmental protection is too complicated an issue and we have to abandon the earth to explore new options. However, are we as brave today as Rachel Carson was then, to speak up and save the whole world from disaster? Are we making enough effort? Although we have signed a series of treaties and pacts and set up several international organizations to save our planet, we still seem to be frustrated by the problems we have created. How should we deal with the 6.3 billion metric tons of plastic garbage we have created in the past five decades? How should we balance the need for economic growth and environmental protection? How should we stop the melting of the Greenland Ice Sheet? We panic in the face of these problems. However, we - individuals and governments both - have to come up with ways more creative, daring and pioneering, some of which we may have never tried before, to make sure spring remains unsilent, just as Robert Frost, the famous American poet, wrote: Two roads diverged in a wood, and I-- I took the one less traveled by, And that has made all the difference. --The Road Not Taken 1916 The rumor has turned into reality. Yes, Google Pixel 3A and 3A XL are out, as affordable alternatives to Pixel 3 duo. These phones provide excellent functionality like the Pixel 3 duo. It comes with a 12.2 mega pixel camera, which has a night sight mode and a similar security feature courtesy of Google's Titan M chip. These gadgets are a worthy cause for a saving plan. And if you were thinking of upgrading to a better phone, then Google Pixel 3A and 3A XL, will delver high-quality grade gadget at a bargain. Honestly, you cannot afford to miss out. Image: Instagram.com, @googlepixel3axl Source: UGC Any wise buyer learns about his product beforehand. We know you love us, and this is when you need us the most. To reciprocate the love, we have put together an informative piece about Google Pixel 3A and 3A XL specs, price and every other detail that will help you understand this affordable but high quality gadget. Remember to leave us a comment in the comment section below, with your thoughts about the phones. Price and date of release The official launch of Google Pixel 3A and 3A XL was on May 7, 2019, and released to stores on May 8, 2019. Will Pixel 2 price drop when Pixel 3 comes out? This is what people asked when Pixel 3 came out. The same is happening with the current release. The only difference is that these recent releases are cheaper substitutes of the flagship Pixel 3 duo. These gadgets offer high functionality, almost like their older sibling, Pixel 3, at a fraction of the latter's cost. In Kenya, these phones' prices are yet to be posted on various shopping sites by retailers. However, according to smartgeekmedia, they should be between $500 and $600 for Pixel 3A and Pixel 3A XL respectively. READ ALSO: Safaricom Bonga Points Phones 2017 Google Pixel 3A and 3A XL specifications These phones have a 12.2 mega pixel single-lens camera that delivers top quality video and photos. Even though they miss the support of Pixel Google's Visual Core, they have an under hood tinkering that assures high quality photos. The phone comes with everything the flagship has in terms of both performance and software add-ons. Google's night sight, refined photobooth mode and portrait are enough reason for you to hold your breath. The Pixel 3A phones run on Snapdragon 670 SoCs, with a 4GB RAM, and one of the two, 64GB or 128GB internal storage. The battery life is said to be 30 hours, and comes with a fast-charging support which is included as standard. Google Pixel 3A and 3A XL design Image: instagram.com, @googlepixel3axl Source: UGC A lot of questions arose during the launch of Pixel 3. Questions such as will Pixel 3 have a notch? Will pixel 3 have dual sim? And what can the Google Pixel 3 do? frequented every techie's mouth. The same is happening with pixel 3A and pixel 3A XL. Pixel 3A and 3A XL has a 5.6 inches and 6 inches 1080 by 2610 screens, respectively. It has a thick top bezel which houses the phone's 8MP front-facing camera. The developer mounted a rear fingerprint scanner sits perfectly well within the reach of your index finger. READ ALSO: List of affordable Tecno phones available in Kenya Google Pixel 3A and 3A XL reviews Image: instagram.com, @googlepixel3axl Source: UGC Judging from the specs and design, these phones are a good bargain. They come with high performance and affordable price, therefore allowing you to enjoy quality phone experience. The phones rear camera, 12 MP, and its selfie 8MP camera with Night Sight feature will guarantee you good images and videos. Google Pixel 3A and 3A XL are a good bargain that you cannot afford to miss. They come with all the right features of a high-end phone including clear night pictures. Also, they have an excellent battery life and fast charging. The deal cannot be any better. READ ALSO: Top 10 Under Kshs 10,000 Smartphones in Kenya Infinix Zero 4 specs, review & price in Kenya Infinix Note 3 specs and price in Kenya Tecno Camon C9 - review, specs and prices in kenya Source: TUKO.co.ke Kenyan-born actress Lupita Nyongo has finally met her lookalike who happens to be a big shot runway model. South Sudanese model Adut Aketch who bears a splitting resemblance with Lupita also showed up at the 2019 annual Met Gala. READ ALSO: Sossion kuzima shughuli za masomo baada ya TSC kutishia kuwafuta kazi waalimu 160 READ ALSO: Gay icon Bobrisky blasts men for calling him 'bro', says he's a woman In a cute and sweet Instagram photo, Lupita posed like a true pro next to the model and expressed her joy in finally meeting her beautiful lookalike. The two beauties who coincidentally have short hair looked like a pair of classy twins who had been together since birth. READ ALSO: Light moments as William Ruto hosts Kenyan comedians at his Karen office An excited Lupita gushed over Adut as she said she is honoured to be compared to the gorgeous star. "They say we look alike. I would have to agree. And I am flattered that this beauty gets confused for me," the actress said. According to the 12 Years a Slave actress, Adut is the embodiment of class, and determination and her work ethic is simply admirable. Call it queens uplifting other queens. Lupita was busy adjusting Adut's shiny crown. "I feel a swell of pride and a rush of giddiness every time I see her strut down a runway or cover another powerful brand campaign or magazine. Adut, you are unstoppable and I am cheering on the sidelines for you," the star added. The Kenyan born thespian said she had seen Adut a couple of times while she was strutting on runways but it seems she never really saw the resemblance. Do you have an inspirational story you would like us to publish? Please reach us through news@tuko.co.ke or WhatsApp: 0732482690 and Telegram: Tuko news. VOX POP: Is your girlfriend/ boyfriend allowed to touch your phone? Source: TUKO.co.ke - The government has abandoned plans to renovate Metre Gauge Railway (MGR) from Naivasha to Kisumu - Transport CS James Macharia said the government had opted to revamp the Naivasha-Malaba line instead at a cost of KSh 15 billion - Macharia said the Kisumu Railway would be costly to renovate as it was badly damaged with vandalised bridges - He said the SGR will eventually be extended to Kisumu and therefore no need to spend extra money on renovating the railway - The old Naivasha- Malaba railway will be renovated and will be connected to the SGR through construction of a new road and rail link from Maai Mahiu to Naivasha The government will not renovate the old Metre Gauge Railway (MGR) from Nakuru to Kisumu to serve the region as earlier stated following changes in plans. Transport and Infrastructure Cabinet Secretary James Macharia said the government had opted to revamp the Naivasha-Malaba line instead as the Kisumu line was badly damaged. READ ALSO: Kenyans unconvinced with IEBC's breakdown of KSh 691 million food budget during 2017 polls Transport and Infrastructure Cabinet Secretary James Macharia said the government had opted to revamp the Naivasha-Malaba line instead as the Kisumu line was badly damaged. Photo: The Standard. Source: UGC READ ALSO: KNUT threatens countrywide strike over suspension of 160 teachers Macharia made the announcement on Wednesday, May 8, saying the railway line which will pass through Eldoret will cost KSh 15 billion. According to the CS, the line has several bridges that had been vandalised and which may be costly to repair, especially considering the government still has plans to complete the SGR line to Kisumu. The reality is that the Nakuru-Kisumu line is not in good shape; it has 17 bridges, which have been vandalised, so it may require doing a new line altogether. We will have to weigh that against the fact that in future, we still have to do the SGR to Kisumu. The line is in very bad shape, so we may not possibly consider that option," he said. READ ALSO: Homa Bay couple arrested for burying dolls pretending they are dead twin Macharia said the project will be financed by private contractors while noting the public-private-partnership contract will help the government to avoid borrowing more loans . Private sector would be much faster because you know it is the financing agreements that take longer but if you have ready funding from the private sector then we just engage them within our existing Public Private Partnership arrangements, said Macharia. READ ALSO: 33-year-old dancer proposes to her boyfriend, 24, with KSh 429k custom-made ring The CS said the governments priority now is to upgrade the old metre gauge railway and connect it to the SGR through construction of a new road and rail link from Maai Mahiu to the Naivasha. Source: Facebook He clarified only KSh 21 billion will be needed to revive both the old railway to Malaba and build a new 43km link from the Nakuru station where the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) ends. The CS said the governments priority at the moment is to upgrade the old metre gauge railway and connect it to the SGR through construction of a new road and rail link from Maai Mahiu to the Naivasha. This will require transporters to use the railway from Mombasa to Duka Moja, Nakuru, where the SGR ends and use trucks to transport their cargo to the old railway station in Naivasha. READ ALSO: Newly signed CBA pushes minimum monthly wage for security guards to over KSh 30k The announcement was made after Macharia hosted a delegation from Uganda who are in the country to follow up on the visit by President Yoweri Museveni. Macharias remarks followed revelations that the government had not secured a much touted multi-billion loan from China for the extension of the SGR from Naivasha to Kisumu. China, who financed construction of the first and second phases of the SGR, instead provided some KSh 40 billion for the MGR. 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 girl with a hole in her heart Source: TUKO.co.ke During the construction phase, the companys capital investment will support an additional $35.5 million in income earned by construction and supply vendors, the chamber estimates. This is what it looks like when we work as a region to compete to bring the best companies in the world to the Tulsa region, Tulsa Mayor G.T. Bynum said. Milos started in 1946 as a hamburger joint in Birmingham, Alabama, headed by Wallworks grandparents, Milo and Beatrice Carlton, who would serve customers tea to wash down their meals. The family cashed in on the popularity of their tea by placing the refrigerated beverages in grocery stores in 1989, selling what had become a chain of restaurants in 2002 and concentrating on Milos Tea exclusively. Now sold in 45 states, the company went nationwide in 2014, including to Oklahoma, where sales have tripled since then. We represent better-for-you beverages that are made with real ingredients that all of you have in your kitchens, Wallwork said. We never add preservatives. That is who we are. Milos spent about three years researching sites before deciding on the Tulsa area. Several trends guiding the energy industry seem to be setting a path toward modernizing infrastructure and increasing the use of renewable resources to provide power. These trends include a reduction in costs for certain technologies, the onset of data analytics, the threat of physical and cyber attacks on infrastructure, and the increasing demand for and supply of renewable energy sources. The energy industry is in the midst of a transformation, and we are prepared at PSO to meet that challenge, said Peggy Simmons, president and chief operating officer of Public Service Company of Oklahoma. Simmons shared where she believes the industry is heading at a Friends of Finance luncheon Wednesday at the University of Tulsa. One of the biggest changes on the horizon is the energy mix that is used to provide power to customers. The reliance on coal has started to wane as more power is generated from natural gas and renewable sources. Currently, about 22% of the power provided by PSO comes from natural gas, 22% from renewables and 17% from coal. The rest is purchased from the marketplace, and a growing percentage of marketplace energy is made up of renewables. The Collinsville Chamber of Commerce is bringing back its popular Outdoor Summer Movies event for a sixth year this summer. The movies will take place Thursday evenings in June at the Collinsville City Plaza, located at 12th and Main Street. The shows will begin at dusk. This is one of our favorite events of the year because we get to give back to the Collinsville community, said Collinsville Chamber Manager Megan Edwards. We see many of the same families year after year and get to build stronger connections with the people we serve. Light up toys and concession items will be available to purchase. Guests will need to bring their own chairs or blankets, as seating will not be provided. All children must be accompanied by an adult. No smoking or alcoholic beverages are allowed at the event. The Chamber thanks the event sponsors for making these movies possible: Treasured Pediatric Care, Darling Ingredients, American Bank of Oklahoma and Collinsville Energy. Their donations allow the Chamber to keep the movies a free community event. For more information, contact the Collinsville Chamber at 918-371-4703 or megan@collinsvillechamber.org. Reference the Chambers Facebook page for more details on each movie night as well as weather updates. Jim Spoon, who was first elected as the at-large city councilman in 2015, was elected to serve a one-year term as mayor at the meeting. We have a lot of quality people and they wanted to step up, Burdge said. My schedules pretty busy. Spoon helped establish Spoon Drug in 1979. He and his wife, Teresa, moved to Sand Springs in 1977 and have a son, Andy, and two grandchildren. He received his B.S. in Pharmacy from Southwestern Oklahoma State University and his doctorate in Pharmacy from the University of Oklahoma. I think we have some really great things happening in Sand SpringsI think we have one of the best park systems in OklahomaWere really proud of that, Spoon said. Im excited to work with the councilI think itll be a good transition. He said hes particularly excited about the upcoming opening of the new Billie A. Hall Public Safety Center. He said he felt it was a good time to take on more of a leadership role on the council because hes planning some downsizing in his business and because of the amount of time hes spent on the council now. In other news: The president of the United States on Wednesday imposed sanctions on Irans iron, steel, aluminum and copper sectors amid escalating tensions between Washington and Tehran. The White House said those industries account for 10 percent of Iranian exports. Today, I am signing an executive order to impose sanctions with respect to Irans iron, steel, aluminum and copper sectors, the regimes largest non-petroleum-related sources of export revenue, Donald Trump said in a statement. Todays action targets Irans revenue from the export of industrial metals - 10 percent of its export economy - and puts other nations on notice that allowing Iranian steel and other metals into your ports will no longer be tolerated, he added. Trump, who indicated a willingness to meet with Iranian authorities, said in the executive order that Tehran could use proceeds from the sale of metals to provide funding and support for the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, terrorist groups and networks, campaigns of regional aggression and military expansion. He also recalled that the US is determined to deny Iran all paths to both a nuclear weapon and intercontinental ballistic missiles. The new sanctions come hours after the Iranian government announced that it is suspending some of its commitments under the landmark 2015 nuclear deal. Iran, Russia, China, France, the United Kingdom and Germany remain parties to the pact, which the US abandoned in May 2018. In his statement, Trump defended the decision he made one year ago. Under the Iran nuclear deal, Iran was free to engage in and sponsor terrorist networks, develop its missile force (and) foment regional conflicts ... all while maintaining a robust nuclear infrastructure. A year later, the Iranian regime is struggling to fund its campaign of violent terror, as its economy heads into an unprecedented depression, Trump said. The US is successfully imposing the most powerful maximum pressure campaign ever witnessed, which todays action will further strengthen. Trump also warned that Iran can expect further actions unless it fundamentally alters its conduct, recalling that the US has put forward 12 conditions that offer the basis of a comprehensive agreement with the Islamic Republic. I look forward to someday meeting with the leaders of Iran in order to work out an agreement and, very importantly, taking steps to give Iran the future it deserves, the statement said. Tensions between the US and Iran have grown since April, when Washington opted to further squeeze Tehran by ending sanctions waivers granted to eight countries that import Iranian oil. On Sunday, the White House said it was deploying an aircraft carrier and bomber task force to the Middle East in response to what the Pentagon described the following day as indications of heightened Iranian readiness to conduct offensive operations against US forces and our interests. Attendees were asked to provide a contact person, fill out a commitment card and the person whod be supervising students in internships would be required to complete a background check. We want this thing to be competitivewe want our kids to apply for an internship, we want you to conduct interviews and hire who you think best fits your needs, Bivin said. He said it would be up to the businesses to determine if the internship is paid or unpaid. I cant stress how important it is for us to unify together, Durkee said. Our community does that so well in so many different ways. Mohawk Materials Co. President Scott Waller attended the forum and said he graduated from Charles Page High School as well. I didnt realize how many (students) werent going (straight) to college from Sand Springs and that they need to have skill sets to get out into the workplace, Waller said. He said hes in need of skilled workers. Grady Whitaker of Whitaker Architects also attended the forum and said he learned about how education has changed. Whitaker said theyre interested in the possibility of having interns and serving in an advisory role. Rachel Snyder 918-581-8315 rachel.snyder@sandspringsleader.com Information has been received from the Oklahoma Corps of Engineers that all gates at the Fort Gibson Dam have been closed this evening. Wagoner County Emergency Management Director Heath Underwood said lake levels are expected to rise to 21 feet above normal by Thursday morning. As of Wednesday night, the level is 17 feet. "If you live in flood prone areas, please start taking precautions," Underwood said. Underwood said in planning ahead, he is requesting a sand bag machine to have available in the event it is needed. WCEM Assistant Director Brandon Wren said as of Wednesday night, the only road closed for flooding from substantial rains in Wagoner County is 305th E. Ave. between 48th Street and the first driveway south of 51st Street. He said both sides of the bridge are underwater as a creek is out of its banks. Barricades are in place and motorists should not drive around them. Wren said the flooding did not start in that area until late this afternoon. In the event roadways in low lying areas or around creek beds become covered with water, officials remind motorists to turn around, and not drown. It does not take but a few inches of water crossing a roadway to wash a vehicle off into a dangerous situation. Be the first to know Get local news delivered to your inbox! Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. This is the story of how lifes journeys, from personal courage to finding love to last a lifetime, became a story of magic and mountains and wizards and dragons. This is Tolkien, the personal story of the author behind The Lord of the Rings, and it shows us how life is a quest in so many ways when it comes to love (magic) and overcoming obstacles (like mountains and dragons). The number of pieces written about J.R.R. Tolkien are legion, and most are more intelligent than this film. But the one thing this biopic does beautifully is establish the importance of friends and forming a tight bond. A fellowship, if you will. That would be a nod to the authors literary adventure epics the movie is full of foreshadowing and to Peter Jacksons more recent blockbuster movies. Finnish director Dome Karukoski plots his tale by initially showing Tolkien (pronounced toll-keen in the movie) during his service in World War I at Somme, deep in the desperation of the trenches in France. This is interwoven for most of two hours with scenes of the rest of his life in England, from his orphaned beginnings to his education and growing imagination. Prosecutors have charged a Tulsa man with first-degree murder after an Oklahoma Attorney Generals Office investigation reportedly found he supplied the drugs used in a fatal November overdose. Brandon Fryhover, 31, reportedly gave Taylor Kinyon, 26, a lethal dose of methamphetamine that led to Kinyons death, according to a news release from the Attorney Generals Office. Kinyon was found unconscious in his bedroom and died days later from methamphetamine toxicity. Officer Jeanne Pierce with the Tulsa Police Department said Fryhover was interviewed by officers after a March 3 arrest on unrelated warrants. Fryhover told police he had bought narcotics from a homeless man in downtown Tulsa on Nov. 16, 2018. He said the man indicated the substance was heroin, but Fryhover told police later that it didnt look like heroin and didnt produce a high consistent with heroin. He reportedly called Kinyon, who picked Fryhover up and took him back to Kinyons residence, where Fryhover loaded two syringes with the narcotics. He told police he injected himself before going to take a shower, after which he allegedly found Kinyon unconscious next to the empty syringe. Stitt was asked about tough questions his nominee for budget secretary, Mike Mazzei, received during a Senate Appropriations Committee confirmation hearing that adjourned Wednesday without taking a vote on the former Republican state senator from Tulsa. Unfortunately, this time of year there are sometimes disagreements or egos that might get involved and unfortunately yesterday there are some personality issues I think that got the better of some folks, Stitt said. Unfortunately, it came out publicly in a confirmation hearing. Some lawmakers accused Stitts administration of attempting to withhold information from them after they gave him more power over some state agencies. Stitt said that assessment is incorrect, but said his budget people need to be in the room when lawmakers are talking to Cabinet secretaries about the budget. I want to have unfettered access to the agencies, said Senate Appropriations Chairman Roger Thompson, R-Okemah. And while it is being said that we have that, we do not have that. I want to make sure we have no stumbling blocks to our members or our staff talking to any agency at any time about any subject. Thompson cited an email from the Oklahoma Health Care Authority to a senator in response to a request for information. The agency staffer indicated that the Oklahoma Health Care Authority was under the leadership of Stitt and the agency was told to keep the Governors Office informed of all questions from the Legislature, Thompson said. In addition, the staffer indicated they were unable to answer the questions posed by the senator, Thompson said. That concerns me a great deal, Thompson said. Thompson also cited another email from Stitts Chief Operating Officer John Budd telling Cabinet secretaries that if they are contacted by legislative appropriations committee chairmen that is it is critically important to bring either Mazzei or Rogers to any meeting to ensure the communications are aligned with the governors. Mazzei said it was important during the final budget negotiations that Stitts team be on the same page and that the governors positions be reflected properly. Thompson said the Senate has the right to check with agencies to ensure numbers are correct. Two Venezuelan opposition lawmakers facing arrest for sedition in connection with last weeks failed uprising against President Nicolas Maduro s leftist government have taken refuge at foreign embassies in Caracas. Mariela Magallanes was admitted Wednesday to the residence of the Italian ambassador, media outlets reported. While Richard Blanco sought refuge Thursday at the Argentine Embassy, his son said in an Instagram post. The deputy speaker of the opposition-controlled National Assembly, Edgar Zambrano, was taken into custody Wednesday night after the National Constituent Assembly (ANC) - a rival legislative body dominated by Maduro supporters - revoked his parliamentary immunity. The ANC likewise retired the immunity of six other legislators, including Magallanes and Blanco, acting on a recommendation from Venezuelas Supreme Court, and is expected to take the same action with regard to three more National Assembly members. Prosecutors have charged the 10 lawmakers with offenses including conspiracy, rebellion and instigation to insurrection, for their part in the attempt by National Assembly speaker Juan Guaido to rally the armed forces behind a bid to oust Maduro. Guaido, who proclaimed himself acting president on Jan. 23, denouncing Maduros May 2018 re-election as illegitimate, went last Tuesday to an airbase in Caracas to issue a call for the military to abandon the current government. He was accompanied by some two-dozen defectors from the National Guard and by Leopoldo Lopez, the leader of the rightist Popular Will party. Lopez, who had been under house arrest after a conviction for instigating violent anti-government protests in 2014, was freed earlier that day with the connivance of the since-dismissed head of the Sebin intelligence service. Following the collapse of the uprising, Lopez went to the Chilean Embassy in Caracas and ultimately found refuge in the residence of the Spanish ambassador. The 25 National Guard troops who flocked to Guaidos banner went to the Brazilian Embassy and were granted asylum. The United States is one of the more than 50 nations who have recognized Guaido as Venezuelas interim head of state. More than 120 other countries - including Russia, China, India and Japan - continue to acknowledge Maduro as president. Guaido suspended a public event planned for Thursday given the gravity of the legal offensive against the lawmakers, which one of his aides characterized as an attempt on the part of the usurping regime to put an end to the National Assembly. At a subsequent press conference, Guaido denounced the criminal charges against the 10 legislators as a blow against parliament and announced plans for nationwide protests over the weekend. We are going to gather on Saturday at 10.00 in the morning across the country, he said. We wont get off the streets. EFE hp-ba/dr OKLAHOMA CITY Former U.S. Army 1st Lt. Michael Behenna said Wednesday that he received a pardon from President Donald Trump because his 2009 trial for killing an Iraqi prisoner was unfair. There have been reports out there that I was pardoned because I killed an Iraqi or killed an Arab or killed a Muslim, Behenna said at a news conference in Oklahoma City. This isnt the reason that I received a pardon. What I was told by President Trump was and what came out in his press release was I received a pardon because of the prosecutorial misconduct that happened during my trial. Behenna, who was convicted in 2009 of unpremeditated murder in a combat zone, received a pardon from Trump on Monday. OKLAHOMA CITY University of Oklahoma regents will not meet with former OU President David Boren this week, but they could consider doing so in the future. Boren, 78, asked in writing Tuesday to meet with the regents about the sexual misconduct investigation of him. His attorney, Clark Brewster, was told Wednesday that the request will be submitted to the regents for their consideration and response. The regents will meet Thursday and Friday in Norman. Their next regular meeting after that is set for June 25-27 in Oklahoma City. Borens attorney told The Oklahoman on Tuesday that the retired OU president would like to directly and fully address the reckless course of conduct being pursued to shamelessly and falsely dishonor Oklahoma University and Mr. Borens period of service and history of accomplishment to OU. For the past 10 years, state policy has been driven by a conservative ideology sold as a way to make Oklahoma more business friendly. In the name of attracting businesses, Republicans have created one of the most flawed and regressive tax structures in the country by lowering income taxes on top earners, lowering corporate tax burdens and by being creative with the types of tax credits they have given to corporations and industry. This unfair structure might have been worth it if it produced the desired result, but have they actually creating better-paying jobs and a better life for average Oklahomans? Earlier in my career, I served as the director of business retention and expansion for a local chamber of commerce. During that time, I interacted with hundreds of businesses either currently doing business in Oklahoma or considering relocating to our state. As we began to roll out the incentives Oklahoma had to offer it became apparent that these companies were not interested solely in tax credits. Every state has those. They were not even concerned with the corporate tax rate, because most states are striving to be competitive. They wanted to know about our commitment to education because they cared about a long-term workforce. They wanted to know about our communitys infrastructure and quality of life because that is what mattered most to their bottom line. The American burying beetle is an ugly little bug. It creeps about the Oklahoma woodlands at night, fighting its own kind and eating dead stuff. Its a hard beast to champion; but for the past 30 years, the full weight of the federal government has been restricting development in a big chunk of eastern Oklahoma because it was counted as endangered. The nature of ecologic prudence is that we have to love all of Gods creatures, great and carrion-consuming. If the burying beetle were to fall off the cliff into extinction, we might not miss its ugly little face in particular, but it would be an indicator that our environment is headed in the wrong direction. Something we hold dearer might be the next to go. As the poet once said, if a clod be washed away by the sea, we are the less as well as if a promontory were. So, it is good news ecologically, economically and ethically to hear the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service says the burying beetle has made a bit of a comeback. The agency has proposed changing the bugs status from endangered to threatened. The species isnt in immediate danger of extinction, and if the status change goes through as proposed bureaucratic limitations on development could be lifted. As an Oklahoma wine and spirits wholesaler not currently selling one of the top 25 brands of wine and spirits, we stand to benefit from the changes being proposed in Senate Bill 608. However, we vehemently oppose this legislation. November 2016 saw an historic election in which Oklahomas liquor laws were changed in the most significant ways since the repeal of Prohibition in 1959. Dozens of companies, including ours, spent the two-year period between passage and implementation right-sizing their businesses based upon the newly-passed law. The fact that certain companies decided not to adapt is not the fault of those who did, nor is it the job of the Legislature to correct. Furthermore, the industry has only been working within this new system for a few months, and to change the laws again so soon would be short-sighted and destructive. Going back to a bygone system would be both detrimental to our new business and a rejection of the will of the people. It should be noted the current law still allows any manufacturer to sell to all Oklahoma wholesalers if they choose. 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. It might surprise you to know that many retirement savers religiously contribute to their tax-deferred savings plans but have no idea what investments they own. Many plan representatives simply suggest that if you don't know, just invest in a target date retirement fund. Is this a good idea? Most 401(k)s and 403(B)s plans, for example, have between 20 and 30 investment options you can choose from. This menu of choices normally includes bond and stock funds as well as international funds. There are also balanced or blended funds, which invest in a mixture of stocks and bonds. Many plans also have some kind of annuity-like investment as well as target date funds. Supposedly, target date funds take the thinking out of investing. Let's say you plan to retire in 2040, so you select a target date fund that approximates that year. The rule of thumb states that the closer you get toward retirement, the more conservative one should be. That means you should have more bonds than stocks (according to Modern Portfolio Theory) in your investment portfolio as you age. Each year you draw closer to retirement, the computer model that actually manages these funds simply put more bonds in your portfolio and less stocks. As a diligent saver who wants to make as much as one can before retirement, let's look at the track record of bonds versus stocks over the last ten years. In this case we have used Vanguard's intermediate term bond fund versus Vanguard's S& P 500 Index fund. But wait, you may say, the last ten years stocks have been up, up and away. So, let's make it 15 years, which includes the worst stock market plunge since the Great Depression. Bonds would have delivered a measly 4.88 percent versus 8.76 percent for stocks. That's almost a double. Over 10 years, stocks gained almost 15 percent. Let there be no mistake, stocks do hold more risk than bonds. Case in point, in 2008, stocks lost over 35 percent, while bonds delivered investors nearly 5 percent. Fear and greed are motivational issues that govern everything we do in the financial markets. But, let's take a look at bond vs stock returns over the past 10 years. Nihar Rama is studying the pathogenesis of lung cancer and its possible treatment. The second-year medical sciences major at the University of Cincinnati (UC) says physicians have long known that smoking is a major risk factor for lung cancer but remain bedeviled in finding a way to halt the cancers progression once a patient is affected. Its a major reason Rama, 20, of Mason, Ohio, hopes to pursue a medical degree and a PhD to further our understanding of the disease. Rama, a Cincinnatus Scholar, who carries a perfect 4.0 GPA, is part of a scientific team at Cincinnati Childrens led by researcher Tanya Kalin, MD, PhD, UC associate professor of pediatrics. The Kalin lab studies pulmonary molecular pathways with a long term goal to develop new therapies to treat chronic lung diseases. Managing disease-related pain at a surface level provides short-term relief, but true improvement calls for long-term sustainable investment in scientific discovery and application, says Rama. While I remain troubled by the current inability to provide an explanation of why someone is hurting, I find comfort in committing myself to a lifetime of work in hopes of changing the status quo. I believe the best way to make a difference is to stay committed to research. Ramas commitment to his research along with his academic prowess has been recognized by the Barry Goldwater Scholarship and Excellence Foundation, which provides scholarships to college sophomores and juniors who intend to pursue research careers in the natural sciences, mathematics and engineering. He was recently named a 2019 Goldwater Scholar, a prestigious honor that includes a scholarship of $7,500 used for tuition, fees, books or room and board. Chinmay Bakshi, a second-year UC student studying chemistry and neuroscience, also received the honor. The award went to 496 college students nationwide. The winners were chosen from a highly competitive pool of more than 5,000 sophomores and juniors. The UC students accomplishments reinforce the importance of pursuing academic excellence, one of the primary goals of Next Lives Here, UCs strategic direction. Nihar is a model undergraduate, says Kalin. He comes to the lab every day, asks meaningful questions, actively participates in our meetings and produces outstanding experimental results. Nihar has taken on a leadership role to help train other students and has contributed to numerous projects in the laboratory. He has a bright future in the medical research field and I look forward to following his career. Jenny Hyest, PhD, director of the Office of Nationally Competitive Awards at UC, says the value of the Goldwater award extends far beyond its dollar amount. This scholarship carries great distinction. Winning the Goldwater speaks highly of a recipients abilities and training, explains Hyest. It recognizes those who receive it as being among the most promising undergraduate STEM researchers in the nation and puts them in a strong position for applying to PhD or MD/PhD programs. Rama says a career in medicine has long been on his radar. Both my mom and I suffered a lot from migraines when I was younger, and I still do today, says Rama. I think the combination of caring for her while also understanding what was going on and truly being able to empathize with her is what really drove me. I noticed I would go to the doctor, and particularly with migraines they would say, This is what we can try to treat you with but we have absolutely no idea whether or not it is going to work. That really frustrated me. I would read all the time about medical advances and how great being a doctor was, but then I realized that while being a physician could in the short term help someone feel better, research provided long-term solvency, says Rama. Thats why I started to get drawn to research and joining a PhD program in addition to pursuing medical training. Rama says the College of Medicines Medical Sciences Program came heavily recommended: his friends, who were upperclassmen, offered a convincing plug. I had some conversations with friends I knew in the program, and they were optimistic about what it could do for me, says Rama. The novelty of the program and the fact I could take classes in the medical school with faculty that were teaching medical students, in proximity to one of the best research hospitals in the nation, was very appealing. Anil Menon, PhD, associate dean of baccalaureate education and director of the Medical Sciences Program in UC College of Medicine, described Rama as an exceptional student whose research interest began the summer after high school graduation in the fields of bioinformatics and neurology under the guidance of researcher Jeffrey Tenney, MD, PhD, at Cincinnati Childrens. Rama wrote, optimized and used code to extract and process data obtained from patient magnetoencephalograms (MEGs) and electroencephalograms (EEGs). Nihar developed strong core skills as well as a passion for research, says Menon. He built on those skills by working in laboratories at Cincinnati Childrens throughout his freshman and sophomore years. Nihar is an exceptionally bright, humble and thoughtful individual in addition to doing extremely well in all his classes. He is always willing to help other students regardless of when they ask for his assistance. Photo by Colleen Kelley/UC Creative Services By Jeff Murphy, May 8, 2019 WARRENSBURG, MO Madisen Sherman, a speech-language pathology graduate student at the University of Central Missouri, is the 2018-2019 recipient of the Missouri Speech-Language-Hearing Association (MSHA) Outstanding Speech-Language Pathology Graduate Student Award. Each school year, MSHA sponsors this award competition. It honors a full-time graduate student in speech-language pathology who has shown superior and outstanding academic achievement, and who exhibits excellent professional promise. The nominee must be pursuing a professional entry-level degree, such as a Master of Arts or Master of Science at an accredited college or university in the state of Missouri. Shermans nomination was in competition with students at eight other Communication Disorders (and Sciences) graduate programs within the state. The award criteria included: academic achievement, scholarship, clinical skills, and service. Sherman received the award at MSHAs President's Luncheon April 6. The faculty, staff, and students within the program in Communication Disorders are extremely proud of Madisen upon her receipt of this prestigious award, said Gregory Turner, graduate program coordinator in Communication Disorders, UCM School of Human Services in the Harmon College of Business and Professional Studies. Sherman came to UCM from Laurie, Missouri, having attended Morgan County R-II High School in Versailles, and is the fourth UCM student to win the MSHA award. Throughout the six years she has spent at UCM, she has gained valuable experience working with individuals served by the Welch-Schmidt Center for Communication Disorders on campus. Her involvement in professional-related service and leadership activities includes serving as the vice president of the National Student Speech, Language and Hearing Association last year. She is planning to work for Western Missouri Medical Center after she completes her degree requirements at UCM this summer. | By Laura Lee Speaking over the steady chirp of a hand-held carbon dioxide monitor, Dan Fucich, a PhD candidate in the Marine Estuarine Environmental Sciences program at the Institute of Marine and Environmental Technology (IMET), encouraged attendees of Grid Pitch 19 to take a deep breath. Grid Pitch '19 teams presented their business ideas to an audience of peers and industry leaders. As they exhaled, Fucich shared the results of the monitor 1,500 parts per million. The air you just put into your lungs contains carbon dioxide levels that are three times what is occurring outside, he warned. At levels above 1,000 parts per million, you start to feel drowsy. You might not be able to think clearly, he said, ticking off a list of the negative effects of high CO2 levels, including headaches and respiratory problems. Fucich and his partner, Kelsey Abernathy, also a PhD candidate at IMET, are co-founders of AlgenAir, an e-commerce company that has developed a natural air purifier called the Aerium, which uses algae to combat indoor air pollution. The entrepreneurial students pitched their idea and displayed a working prototype at Grid Pitch 19 held at the Grid, an innovation space at the University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB) where students, entrepreneurs, faculty, and staff connect to bring innovative health and social impact ideas to life. (Watch a Grid Pitch 19 video below.) AlgenAir was joined by five other groups of fellow business-minded students for the Grid Pitch, which is described as a celebration of ideas and student entrepreneurs, rather than a Shark Tank-like competition. This is not a contest, its a showcase, said Jim Kucher, DPA, faculty program manager of the Grid. We want to give each team feedback because this is a learning experience. To that end, attendees were encouraged to talk to teams during the event and to scan a QR code on the program linked to an online survey of each presentation. After applying and being accepted to Grid Pitch, each team received several weeks of mentoring from experienced industry professionals and seasoned entrepreneurs. The mentors included David Wise, MALD, director of the Maryland Momentum Fund; Darryl Carter, MD, co-founder and former vice president of Nora Therapeutics and advisor for University of Maryland Ventures; Newt Fowler, partner, business transactions, Womble, Bond, and Dickinson; and Neil Davis, director of entrepreneurial development, TEDCO. Davis said serving as a Grid Pitch mentor was an energizing role that served a dual purpose as a scouting mission. TEDCO is always looking out for the next wave of really good entrepreneurs, so it makes sense for us to be here to find out who they are and what theyre doing, so we can help them get ready, he said. Unlike at last years event, Grid Pitch 19 teams were separated into three categories depending on the concepts stage of development. As the most advanced entry, AlgenAir earned the title MVP, short for Minimum Viable Product, an industry term that refers to a product that will appeal to early adopters and can provide market analysis before a full rollout. Other categories were Vision, which encompassed teams just beginning to think about their ideas, and Venture for those that have moved further along in the process but are still in the early development phase. The Aerium air purifier, which is reminiscent of a lava lamp stylishly revamped for the new millenium, contains water tinted green by live algae and has the air-scrubbing power of 25 houseplants, according to creators Fucich and Abernathy. The team made its debut at last years Grid Pitch with an idea to produce algae nutraceuticals using rooftop bioreactors. After consulting with mentors at the Grid, they realized an air purifier was a more viable option and made the switch in August 2018. One of the most important things you can learn as an entrepreneur is that no is a very good thing, noted Kucher. Finding out a project wont work is extremely valuable. The AlgenAir team learned that lesson, as well as three teams in the Vision category, which Kucher described as beginning-stage ideas that are still being fleshed out. We started out with six Vision projects, he said. Tonight, youre going to see three. That means three didnt make it. Thats not fun. Not fun for the entrepreneur, not fun for the mentor, not fun for anybody. But its a valuable lesson to learn. The three Vision teams that presented at Grid Pitch 19 are: Sri Lankan American Knowledge Exchange (SLAKE): Nimasha Fernando, MPH candidate, University of Maryland School of Medicine (UMSOM); Rishvi Jayathliake, PhD candidate, University of Maryland, College Park. SLAKE is an organization that aims to remedy brain drain in Sri Lanka while creating global learning opportunities in the United States. SLAKE will do this by serving as a connecting hub that harnesses the potential of teams of students and young professionals in the U.S. who have an interest in Sri Lanka and connecting them with research teams and community organizations in the country. Healthcare Collective (HCC): Sierra Fisher, University of Maryland School of Nursing (UMSON). Healthcare Collective will bring the power of preventive medicine to underserved populations and act as a resource for individuals with health concerns. The goal of HCC is to address the whole individual socially, environmentally, and with physical and mental health. HomED: Serban Negoita, Yi An, UMSOM. HomED is a web application that will utilize user-generated input to provide patient-specific and clinician-validated information regarding whether to pursue care at an emergency department, urgent care center, or primary care practice. Patients who are unwilling to pursue care at a medical facility will be offered home-based emergency medical services through the HomED platform. Negoita, a first-year student at UMSOM, has worked full time in an emergency department and volunteered in an ambulance and hopes his idea will improve health care outcomes. One of the things that drives us towards medicine is that we want to make a change thats positive for patients, he said, explaining the origin of HomED. At times that means on an individual level taking care of patients, but it also means thinking about how we make systems work better. I came out to share my vision and to get ideas about how to make it work. The middle category called Venture included two teams CAP Strategies, composed of three University of Maryland School of Pharmacy students who want to encourage medication adherence by using pill cap monitoring technology, and Danielle Miller, an FNP candidate at UMSON who wants to improve patient follow-up care in emergency departments. The CAP strategies team pharmacy students Jeff Banasazak (first year), Griffin Savageau (second year), and Jay Shah (third year) said its goal is to encourage patients to take their prescription medications by collecting usage data using pill cap monitoring technology. America is paying for non-adherence to the tune of 125,000 lives lost each year, according to the CAP Strategies team. By assessing medication adherence and providing the information to patients, doctors, and insurance companies, the team says its medication therapy management system will decrease hospitalizations, mortality, and overall health care costs. Set to graduate this month, Miller is using her experience as a Shock Trauma nurse to fill a gap she sees in patient care transition. The problem we have here in Baltimore, she explained, is patients utilizing emergency care for primary care and the lack of coordination after the patients leave the ER, which leads to lingering problems and increased readmission rates. Her solution is to offer primary care within emergency departments to ensure easy referral and triage so the patient can be followed by a primary care team. Her nonprofit organization would be affiliated with the R Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center and the University of Maryland Medical Center emergency department, and it would make use of multidisciplinary care from the schools of medicine, nursing, pharmacy, and social work. Her vision is to to change how we deliver health care and do it in an interprofessional manner as a teaching approach here at UMB, she says. Each team walked away from Grid Pitch a winner with a monetary prize provided by UM Ventures intended to further their projects. The MVP team received $2,500; Venture teams each received $1,000; and the Vision teams each received $500. Miller said she is grateful for the Grid Pitch experience and that the prize is a bonus. Its been really amazing to bounce ideas and get the support of experienced professionals who have been through the business development adventure themselves, she said. New York Government representatives, development practitioners and humanitarian actors from around the world will meet in Geneva next week at the Sixth Session of the Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction (May 13-17) to take stock of the progress towards achieving the targets outlined by the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction, with inclusion as one of the central themes. Embedded within the week-long event, the Fourth World Reconstruction Conference (May 13-14) co-organised by UNDP and the World Bank, with support from the European Union will focus on inclusive recovery that is accessible to all groups of society a key prerequisite for successful recovery processes that are sustainable and build long-term resilience. Eddie Ndopu, UN Secretary-General's SDG Advocate and one of the world's pre-eminent disability justice activists will speak at the opening session of the World Reconstruction Conference and share his insights on the challenges and possible solutions for making DRR and recovery accessible for all. UNDP has been supporting national and local governments for over 20 years to assist recovery and develop and strengthen their disaster risk reduction strategies and plans. Since the adoption of the Sendai Framework, we have worked with nearly 40 countries to meet their existing and emerging risk management needs, including helping them to Build Back Better stated Asako Okai, Assistant Secretary General and Director of UNDPs Crisis Bureau. By achieving the goals of the Sendai Framework, we can also build resilience to climate change impacts, and ensure we stay on track with realising the 2030 Agenda. With the impacts of climate change becoming increasingly prevalent and effecting the worlds most vulnerable most acutely, UNDP is focusing more than ever on addressing inequalities and building resilience of the most at-risk communities and countries. The week-long event in Geneva is an opportunity for the international community to reinforce the understanding that natural hazards are widening inequalities, and if our DRR and recovery approaches are not inclusive, we run the danger of further exacerbating existing inequalities. For media queries: In Geneva: Sarah Bel, UNDP Communications Specialist, sarah.bel@undp.org, Tel: +41 22 917 85 44 In New York: Sangita Khadka, UNDP Communications Specialist, sangita.khadka@undp.org; Tel: +1 212 906 5043 UNHCR UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, is today urging Greeces candidates for the next European Parliament to adopt seven key calls to strengthen refugee protection within and beyond the borders of the European Union. Members of the next European Parliament have a unique and important opportunity to better protect refugees in the EU and globally. An unprecedented 68.5 million people around the world have now been forced to flee conflict, violence and persecution and thousands continue to flee every day. Among them are nearly 25.4 million refugees, over half of whom are under the age of 18. The vast majority of refugees are hosted in developing countries and not in the European Union where refugee arrivals have fallen to pre-2015 levels. Urgent responses are needed to the unending displacement around the world, at a time when toxicity in language about refugees and migrants is on the rise in Europe and elsewhere, said UNHCR Representative in Greece Philippe Leclerc. The next European Parliament must mobilize the EU around a strong and fair response for forcibly displaced people globally and in the region. This includes demonstrating solidarity across the EU for refugees and countries hosting them, such as Greece, he added. The European Union more than ever needs a bold, imaginative and workable approach to overcome fragmentation and manage refugee movements effectively in a secure, humane and orderly way that works for both refugees and states. By supporting countries outside of Europe and by increasing safe and legal pathways, the EU can reduce dangerous journeys and help find long-term opportunities for refugees to thrive and not just survive. If pursued and implemented, UNHCRs seven key calls to European Parliament candidates will substantially strengthen this common EU response. UNHCR remains ready to continue providing support to the European Parliament, the EU and its Member States, to ensure a functioning, fair and accessible European asylum system, and leadership at the global level. UNHCRs seven key calls to European Parliament candidates are available at a designated webpage: English Greek Download the leaflet in English & Greek Share on Facebook Share on Twitter In the heat of the afternoon an old woman leans forward in the darkened room. People think of me as a foreigner here. Its not good at all, but what can you do? Aminata Sidibe calculates her age by the year of her marriage and Cote dIvoires independence. Both took place in 1960. She thinks she was 15 then, which would make her 74 now. She might be older. She may not know her exact age but she does know that, as she puts it, I was born here, I was married here, I had my children here, and I have grand-children and even great grand-children here. People think of me as a foreigner here. Its not good at all, but what can you do? Aminata Sidibe and her family are Fulas, an ethnic group of herders spread over a dozen countries in Africa. Although she is the matriarch of an extended family of 45 with roots in Cote dIvoire reaching back generations, in the eyes of the country she lives in, she, and all her family, are foreigners. Her familys problem is that Cote dIvoire only confers citizenship by bloodline at least one parent has to be Ivorian. It is not enough to have been born here. Officially, Aminata, and the rest of her family, are Burkinabe, descendants of people from neighbouring Burkina Faso, a distinction that places them at risk of statelessness. This results from the fact that, after many generations away, Burkina Faso may not recognize them as citizens. We have no position here, says Animatas son, Seydou Tall, 56, who was born in Cote dIvoire and has a birth certificate. He owns a large herd of cattle. I dont want a consular card saying Im from Burkina Faso. Im not. I want to have the nationality of my country. Animata Sidibe's son Seydou Tall (standing at centre in white), poses with family members outside their home in Kong, Cote d'Ivoire. UNHCR/Mark Henley Seydou Tall, and fellow family members photographed with some of their family's cattle, Kong, Cote d'Ivoire. UNHCR/Mark Henley Four-year-old Rachel Tall with some of the family cattle, Kong, Cote d'Ivoire. UNHCR/Mark Henley Abdul, Boukary Aisha, and Adiba (left to right) pose for a picture in Kong, Cote d'Ivoire. They are the first generation of the extended Tall family to go to school. UNHCR/Mark Henley Worldwide, there are millions of people without nationality. They face a lifetime of inequities and impediments blocking access to basic rights such as education, healthcare, employment and free movement. In Cote dIvoire, the numbers of people like the Fula without documents and at risk of statelessness are worrying. Cote dIvoire assessed their stateless population at nearly 700,000 at the end of 2017. But a thorough mapping effort currently underway is expected to yield a more accurate and much higher number of people who are either stateless, or at risk of statelessness. Seydou says that, with Ivorian nationality, family members could find good jobs. Without nationality certificates, they cannot apply for formal jobs, open bank accounts or get a driving license. See also: Brazil makes dream of belonging come true for stateless activist They are pastoralists and raise cattle, without the right to buy property. The family's right to their land depends on a private agreement with the old owner which gives them no legal rights. For the family, the path to citizenship is a long one. Monique Saraka, general secretary of the Ivorian Association of Women Jurists, visited the small town to give advice to the family on their status. Many of the Fula people have no formal education, and they fear approaching the authorities, she says. Most dont even have birth certificates. With the help of a local interpreter, Monique Saraka, general secretary of the Ivorian Association of Women Jurists, talks with members of the Tall family, Kong, Cote d'Ivoire UNHCR/Mark Henley Saraka says that, unfortunately, their path to nationality is narrow; they would have to apply for naturalization. Its a long, slow process, she says. People who apply can wait 10 years, or even longer. On top of that, there is the cost. So people, particularly in rural areas, look at all that and get discouraged. They dont bother. Her association, with backing from UNHCR, has been campaigning since 2015 for changes to the system. The first goal is to make getting basic documents, like birth certificates, easier. The government is about to bring into force a law making the process free for one year. Easing the obstacles to obtaining Ivorian nationality will take a much longer campaign. A temporary Ivorian law making naturalization easier expired in 2016. Were hoping to have this law re-introduced and added to the nationality law. These people have been here for four generations, Saraka says. Its hard to imagine them having another nationality than Ivorian. "These people have been here for four generations ... Its hard to imagine them having another nationality than Ivorian. The good news is that, with the exception of Aminata who lost her papers after her husband died, all the generations of her family have birth certificates. While their quest for citizenship remains ongoing, the younger children are at least able to attend school, and imagine a future with the benefits nationality would bring. I like history, I like learning about the past, says 15-year-old Boukary, who has been going to school for five years. I would like to be a policeman. I want to talk to people and separate the good ones from the bad.: Adiba and Aisha are 13 and 12 respectively, and both say they want to be teachers. However, without nationality papers, they cannot continue beyond secondary school. In her room, Aminata, the matriarch, seems resigned to her current status but hopeful. I leave the decisions about papers to my sons, she says. People can say what they want, Ive never been threatened. Even if they say Im a foreigner, I pardon them. Its Gods will. Mr. Saakashvili expressed his intention to return to Georgia where he served as president until 2013, saying that he has "big plans" in the country. Former Georgian president Mikheil Saakashvili has announced plans to return to Ukraine with the aim of helping president-elect Volodymyr Zelensky as an adviser. Mr. Saakashvili also expressed his intention to return to Georgia where he served as president until 2013, saying that he has "big plans" in the country, according to Emerging Europe. Read alsoSaakashvili calls on Poroshenko to return him Ukrainian citizenship "Ukraine is my home, but saving Georgia is the priority issue for me. That does not mean that I will not arrive in Kyiv. I will definitely arrive in Ukraine and then, in Tbilisi," the former president told Poland-based Belarusian broadcaster Belsat. "I am now consolidating all Georgian emigrants around the world. We have a big Munich congress ahead and we will start the process of saving Georgia, and put it on a development track," he said. Mr. Saakashvili, who also served as the governor of Ukraine's Odesa territory between 2015 and 2016, was expelled by outgoing Ukrainian president Petro Poroshenko after he provided inaccurate information about his past when applying for Ukrainian citizenship. Earlier this year, when running for president of Ukraine, Zelensky said that he considered Mr. Saakashvili a great diplomat who is capable of taking an important position in Ukraine's government, adding that his citizenship should be restored. The participants of the ceremony honored the memory of the victims with a moment of silence. Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko, Prime Minister Volodymyr Groysman, ministers and heads of churches on May 9 took part in a ceremony honoring the memory of victims on the occasion of the 74th anniversary of the victory over Nazism in World War II of 1939-1945. Read alsoUkraine marks Day of Victory over Nazism in World War II The ceremony took place in Kyiv's Park of Eternal Glory. The participants of the ceremony laid flowers at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, after which they honored the memory of the victims with a moment of silence. The military orchestra performed the National Anthem of Ukraine, soldiers of the Honor Guard saluted in volleys and marched in front of the monument. Now, May 9 is celebrated as the Day of Victory over Nazism in World War II, instead of the established Soviet-era Day of Victory in the Great Patriotic War of 1941-1945. On May 9, Ukraine marks the Day of the Victory over Nazism in World War II of 1939-1945. The memorable date was established by the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine on April 9, 2015, with the law on perpetuation of the victory over Nazism in the World War II of 1939-1945 voted for within the package of decommunization laws. Now, May 9 is celebrated as the Day of Victory over Nazism in World War II, instead of the established Soviet-era Day of Victory in the Great Patriotic War of 1941-1945. As is known, the term "Great Patriotic War" was used in the former USSR to emphasize that in the war of 1941-1945, the people defended the Soviet Union as common homeland. Read alsoZelensky calls for unity on Remembrance and Reconciliation Day Earlier, there were solemn military parades in Ukraine on May 9, which was necessarily accompanied by a display of military equipment. However, after Russia unleashed aggression against Ukraine in April 2014, this tradition became the past. In recent years, one can watch marches of military bands in Kyiv on May 9. The use of Soviet symbols, like St. George ribbons, is now restricted in ceremonies honoring the memory of those who perished in World War II. Instead, the official symbol of the celebration of the victory over Nazism in World War II, just as on the Day of Remembrance and Reconciliation, is a red poppy common around the world on remembrance days of WWII. Ukraine used its own styling, developed by Kharkiv designer Serhiy Mishakin. The slogan of both days is "1939-1945. We Honor. We Prevail." On May 9 and May 8, which is the Day of Remembrances and Reconciliation, Ukrainians lay flowers to the Monument to Eternal Glory and commemorate heroes of the Second World War. The younger generation communicates with war veterans. The School Committee touched on a handful of topics Wednesday evening. DOJ Bringing 'SPIRIT' Program to Area Schools PITTSFIELD, Mass. The U.S. Department of Justice is bringing training to the county to help prevent racial violence in the schools. Superintendent Jason McCandless said Central Berkshire Regional School District had headed an effort to bring in the department's Student Problem Identification and Resolution of Issues Together (SPIRIT) program and invited other districts to send representatives to the first meeting. McCandless said eventually the goal is to open to a wider region. "The lead school in the whole county on it is Central Berkshire Regional School District. Dr. [Laurie] Casna, their superintendent, has been working with Multicultural Bridge really for most of the year. The first training is taking place there and the rest of us will be joining in as we are able and as the department is able," McCandless said. The program helps schools improve the way they teach students in middle and high schools to resolve conflicts early. "They come into communities in an effort to help communities avoid issues, to respond to issues before they become real civil rights issues and then to get better at learning how to avoid issues," McCandless said. "Ideally we are teaching kids in middle and high schools problem-solving skills, something they can continue to build on." The program is free of charge for the district and the superintendent said districts in the future will likely take a regional approach to bringing the training back year after year. "We will probably to try to approach it as a region," he said. McCandless briefed the School Committee on the new program on Wednesday saying it will tie in with a number of programs the district is already running. It ties in nicely with a program headed by the Jewish Federation of the Berkshires, the Anti-Defamation League, and the Berkshire County Superintendents Roundtable that was launched among seven school districts. That program empowered students in middle and high schools about standing up and speaking out against bullying, prejudice, and discrimination. A celebration honoring those students who participated is scheduled for June 5. "We are celebrating all of these middle school students across the county," McCandless said. Cultural competency has been a "foundational brick" in the Pittsfield school system for seven or so years, McCandless said, and these additional programs help bring those skills to the children in the district. "We really want to take the next step which is to empower kids," McCandless said. In other business, School Committee member Daniel Elias started what is expected to be a more in-depth discussion about foreign studies trips. The School Committee approved school trips to Spain and Italy on Wednesday but the students participating do have to pay a fairly significant cost to do so. Elias said he wants to develop some type of program for students from families that can't afford the cost to be able to earn what they need to participate. "My concern is for that child who wants to go but the families don't have the means, there should be some way for them to earn their ability to go," he said. Elias said the trips provided "great educational value" but schools haven't been doing fundraisers to help drive down the cost for parents. He said there are overarching fundraising efforts in some districts for an array of opportunities that students could tap into for assistance but in Pittsfield, fundraisers seem to be focused on certain activities. He wondered if that could be an option. McCandless responded that at one point there was a push for booster clubs for not just one sport but for all sports. And on one occasion the parents of one sport raised a significant amount of money and was able to light up the field for that sport. Aspects like that complicate how a shared fund-raised pool of money would operate because those parents would want their work to go to their children. He added that there are student activities fund accounts but those aren't enough to fund overseas trips and are already used to drive down the cost of prom, yearbooks, and other field trips. At the same time, McCandless doesn't want to put the responsibility on the teachers to fund raise for the trip. He said those teachers are volunteering their time to take these trips and have the responsibility for the students while they are there. "Some districts take the approach of presenting it in freshman year, 'we are going to have this trip going when you are a junior so be thinking about it,'" he said, adding that with enough of emphasis and knowledge about it, families would have a longer time to save. The School Committee didn't come to a resolution nor dive too deeply on the subject, but Elias has begun the conversation about what else can be done to ensure students who want to go and have earned the right to go can go. "I don't think the answer is stopping travel because some kids can't afford it. I'm also not sure the answer is to require a teacher to step into fundraising roles either," McCandless said. The School Committee also finalized its letter to state Department of Elementary and Secondary Education Commissioner Jeffrey Riley voicing outrage over racially insensitive question on the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System exam. The committee had previously discussed the issue and took a position condemning the question for being on the exam. One occupier was killed and another five were wounded on Wednesday, intelligence reports say. Russia's hybrid military forces in the past 24 hours mounted 11 attacks on Ukrainian army positions in Donbas, with one Ukrainian soldier reported as killed in action, and another four as wounded in action. Read alsoUkraine's Defense Minister Poltorak signs order to increase Joint Forces' allowances "One Ukrainian soldier was killed in action and another four were wounded in the past day. Each enemy provocation had an adequate response. According to intelligence reports, one occupier was killed and another five were wounded," the press center of Ukraine's Joint Forces Operation said in an update posted on Facebook as of 07:00 Kyiv time on May 9, 2019. Russian occupation forces opened fire from 82mm mortars, grenade launchers of various types, heavy machine guns, and small arms. Under attack were Ukrainian positions near the town of Maryinka, as well as near the villages of Pavlopil, Bohdanivka, Starohnativka, Lebedynske, Opytne, Novotoshkivske, and Zalizne. "Since Thursday midnight, Russian-led forces haven't attacked Ukrainian positions yet," the report said. The situation in the area of the Joint Forces Operation remains under control of Ukrainian troops. Russia's hybrid military forces mounted four attacks on Ukrainian army positions in Donbas on May 9. Read alsoOne Ukrainian soldier killed, four wounded in Donbas amid 11 enemy attacks in past day "No Ukrainian soldiers were killed or wounded from 00:00 to 18:00 Kyiv time. Each enemy provocation had an adequate response. Information on the enemy's losses is being clarified," the press center of Ukraine's Joint Forces Operation (JFO) said in an update on Facebook. The enemy opened fire from weapons installed on infantry fighting vehicles, grenade launchers of various types, and small arms at the Ukrainian positions near the town of Avdiyivka, and the villages of Bohdanivka, Chermalyk, and Novozvanivka. The situation in the area of the Joint Forces Operation remains under control of Ukrainian troops. Montenegro's High Court found that the group had plotted to occupy the country's parliament during the 2016 parliamentary elections, assassinate then-Prime Minister Milo Djukanovic, and install a pro-Russian leadership. Montenegro's High Court has convicted a group of 14 Russians, Serbs, and Montenegrins on terrorism charges and creating a criminal organization as part of an October 2016 attempted coup aimed at derailing the country's NATO membership bid. Two alleged Russian military intelligence officers (GRU) who were accused of organizing the violent overthrow of Montenegro's government coup were convicted and sentenced in absentia. They are Eduard Shishmakov., who was sentenced in absentia to 15 years in prison, and Vladimir Popov, who was sentenced in absentia to 12 years, RFE/RL wrote. Read alsoSecond GRU officer indicted in Montenegro coup unmasked - Bellingcat Two pro-Russian leaders of Montenegro's opposition Democratic Front Andrija Mandic and Milan Knezevic were sentenced to five years while their Montenegrin driver, Mihajlo Cadenovic, was given an 18-month prison sentence. For the nine citizens of Serbia convicted in the coup plot, the harshest sentence was against Branislav Dikic a former Serbian police general who received eight years in prison. Predrag Bogicevic and Nemanja Ristic, both members of Serbian ultranationalist groups, each were sentenced in absentia to seven years. Branka Milic, who fled to Serbia's embassy in Podgorica in late 2018, received a three-year sentence; Dragan Maksi was sentenced to 21 months; Srboljub Dordevic was sentenced to 18 months; and Kristina Hristic received a suspended sentence. Montenegro's High Court found that the group had plotted to occupy the country's parliament during the 2016 parliamentary elections, assassinate then-Prime Minister Milo Djukanovic, and install a pro-Russian leadership. The presiding trial judge, Suzan Mugosa, ruled on May 9 that all of the defendants had tasks aimed at violently overthrowing the Montenegrin government and declaring an electoral victory for the Democratic Front in order to prevent Montenegro from joining NATO. The court ruled that Mandic and Knezevic were tasked with recruiting people and preparing a protest in front of the parliament with the aim of storming the legislature. Mugosa said the evidence proved Knezevic also had been tasked with conveying messages among members of a criminal organization abroad. Mugosa said the trial evidence also proved that Knezevic accepted the task of hiring other people to take part in the attempted coup. The Kremlin has denied that "Russian state bodies" were involved. Montenegro in June 2017 became the 29th member of NATO, a step that was bitterly criticized by Russia and opposed by some Montenegrins who advocate closer ties with Moscow. The new Taconic High School's gym is not big enough for the graduation ceremony. Taconic High's Graduation to Be Held at Boys & Girls Club PITTSFIELD, Mass. The first class to graduate from the newly constructed Taconic High School will do so at the Boys and Girls Club. The graduation had typically been held in the high school's gymnasium. However, the new school's gym is smaller than the previous one and last year's graduation was the last one before the former home of the Braves was torn down. McCandless said the size of the new gymnasium would have limited families to have about four tickets inside and that other family members would have to watch it on a screen in the auditorium. "We have lots of young people with big families, with complicated families, with step parents and step grandparents, uncles and aunts. We have kids who are first in their family high school graduates and to those families, if they want to have 20 people there we want them to have 20 people there," McCandless said. "We have 180 graduates and outside of Tanglewood, we thought that is probably the second biggest venue really in the neighborhood without going to a Williams College or an MCLA." Tanglewood in Lenox is where Pittsfield High School's graduations have been held but the summer home of the Boston Symphony wasn't available for earlier that Sunday, June 9, afternoon. Lenox Memorial High's held that time and date for years. McCandless said he met with a group of about 20 students to look at various options. He said Tanglewood did have an opening for the Saturday before but at that point, families had already set their plans around the Sunday graduation. He said many have planned parties, rented tents, or had family members with tickets to fly in for it already. "We can't jam families up financially and logistically like that so we had to stick with Sunday," McCandless said. The superintendent said holding it outside was considered but there wasn't an accommodation readily available if there was poor weather. He said Berkshire Community College was looked at but none of its spaces had the capacity needed. The Boys and Girls Club has a similar, if not larger, space as the old Taconic gym and McCandless said it allows for families to have nearly triple the amount of tickets than they would have in the newly built gym. "We think that has a capacity of 2,000 people in the bleachers and seats on the floor, we think we can get in the neighborhood of 10 to 12 tickets for each student," McCandless said. He added that St. Joseph's Church agreed to allow the school to use its parking lot after Mass to accommodate the vehicular travel. The location has had some mixed reviews with some students feeling disappointed with it while others are excited, having spent a lot of time there growing up. McCandless said even though it isn't in the school gym, the ceremony will still be honoring of the graduating class. "We felt the Boys and Girls Club honors the kids, honors the families, and we are fortunate to have great partners in them. We will see how it goes and reassess for next year," McCandless said. 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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 LEBANON Dartmouth-Hitchcock is hosting an evening reception and viewing of the 99 Faces Project: Portraits Without Labels exhibit just for veterans and their families on May 13 from 5 to 7 p.m. The exhibit, designed by Boston-based visual artist Lynda Michaud Cutrell, features unlabeled portraits of individuals with mental illnesses and those who love them. Its on a six-month installation at D-H, and the special reception for veterans, co-hosted by the Department of Veterans Affairs medical centers in New Hampshire and Vermont, is the first of a planned series of events aimed at breaking down the stigma surrounding mental illness. Brig. Gen. Donald Bolduc (U.S. Army, retired) and his wife, Sharon, will give the keynote address, sharing their experiences with the transition to civilian life and with mental health challenges. A panel discussion will follow with experts from D-H and the V.A. Medical Centers in New Hampshire and Vermont. Dr. Brett Rusch, director of the White River Junction (Vt.) V.A., said the featured exhibit and discussion is another step in his facility's ongoing collaboration with D-H. By putting a face to a life with mental illness, we are telling veterans that may be suffering in silence, We see you, and we are here to help when you are ready, he said. John Broderick, senior director of public affairs at D-H, said, "We want to help veterans change the conversation around mental health, and help them break the shame and stigma that might be keeping them suffering alone and afraid to seek help." Broderick, the former chief justice of the New Hampshire Supreme Court, has become one of the state's leading advocates for mental health awareness. The May 13 event is free and open to the public, but registration is requested by calling the Manchester VAMC at 624-4366, ext. 6779, or at: surveymonkey.com/r/99Faces. Israel Celebrates Independence Day as Fragile Ceasefire Holds Stand for Israel | May 9, 2019 After a weekend of intense fighting and rocket barrages that left four Israelis dead, Israel celebrated her 71st Independence Day, Yom HaAtzamaut, beginning Wednesday night. A fragile ceasefire remains in place between Israel and enemy terrorist groups, but Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has keep troops near the Gaza border, saying the fight is not over. The Fellowship responded to last weekends rocket barrage from Gaza by providing eight mobile bomb shelters with plans for 53 more, and designating $100,000 for local emergency needs. One year after the United States withdrew from the Iran nuclear deal, Iranian leaders have threatened future compliance. U. S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said that the American goal is to keep Irans actions in check in accordance with global policies. Israeli President Reuven Rivlin addressed the nation of Israel on her Independence Day with thankfulness and pride, and a call for the future prosperity of the Jewish state This weeks Israel in the News Perspective features the Fellowships Ami Farkas on Yom Hazikaron, Israel Memorial Day, which immediately precedes Israel Independence Day. May 9 2019 Allford Hall Monaghan Morris has published their design proposals for a temporary debating chamber for the House of Commons ahead of a decant of government from the Palace of Westminster to accommodate vital renovations. The designs sit at the heart of a consultation launched to inform the public of parliaments plan to relocate functions to the northern estate, a disparate collection of office buildings further along Whitehall which are themselves in need of modernisation to accommodate relocated staff. To that end, BDP has prepared a masterplan for the district, centrepiece of which will be a 650-seat temporary House of Commons Chamber, including an associated viewing gallery and offices. Situated within the listed Richmond House the project will retain the current Whitehall frontage while rebuilding the interior to meet the needs of MPs, staff and visitors. At once respecting the heritage of the original chamber while opening up access the pared-down replacement will retain the adversarial style of opposing benches, each upholstered in familiar green leather. The temporary chamber is expected to operate from the mid-2020s and will remain in use as the seat of government until the full completion of the 4bn restoration and renewal programme - which isnt expected until the early 2030s. Comments are invited on the plans via a dedicated consultation hub prior to 28 June, to inform subsequent detailed planning applications for individual buildings. (@ChaudhryMAli88) BEIRUT (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 09th May, 2019) Hungary will send 54 members of its armed forces to serve in the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) peacekeeping mission in south Lebanon, Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto said on Wednesday. "Hungary will send 54 members of the military to serve in the UNIFIL forces operating in south Lebanon. We want to contribute to the stabilization of [Lebanon] and we intend to sign an agreement [with Lebanon] in the field of security to provide support," Szijjarto said as quoted by Lebanon foreign ministry. Szijjarto also said that Hungary would be happy to host 40 Lebanese students to come study in Hungarian universities this year. (@ChaudhryMAli88) Permanent representatives of Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan expressed concerns over growing manifestation of nationalism and neo-Nazism in OSCE countries in a joint statement on Thursday MOSCOW (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 09th May, 2019) Permanent representatives of Armenia Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan expressed concerns over growing manifestation of nationalism and neo-Nazism in OSCE countries in a joint statement on Thursday. "We are concerned about the growing manifestation of neo-Nazism, radical nationalism, racism, glorification of ethnic crimes and religious hatred in OSCE space. History must serve as a reminder of the danger brought about by racial, ethnic and religious discrimination," the text reads. The statement, urging to prevent falsifications and revision of World War II history, is timed to the 74th anniversary of the Soviet Union's victory over Nazi Germany in the Great Patriotic War of 1941-1945 on May 9. The diplomats emphasize that remembrance of millions of World War II victims must leave no room for being tolerant toward attempts to render the Nuremberg trials obsolete and whitewash the Nazi crimes. In this regard, they welcome the resolution adopted by the UN General Assembly on December 17, 2018 on "Combating glorification of Nazism, neo-Nazism and other practices that contribute to fuelling contemporary forms of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance," saying it is of particular relevance today. A day earlier, on May 8, a monument in memory of Soviet soldiers was vandalized on Schwarzenbergplatz in Vienna, not the first act of a kind. The Russian embassy in Austria filed a strong protest note to authorities. At present, the damage has been restored. (@ChaudhryMAli88) The Russian Civic Chamber's media committee chair Alexander Malkevich told Sputnik on Wednesday that he was stopped by Moldovan border patrol from entering the country upon flying into its capital earlier in the day CHISINAU (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 08th May, 2019) The Russian Civic Chamber 's media committee chair Alexander Malkevich told Sputnik on Wednesday that he was stopped by Moldovan border patrol from entering the country upon flying into its capital earlier in the day. "Upon arriving at the [Chisinau] airport, I was detained and questioned for a long time [about an hour] and was told that my presence in Moldova was not welcome and that I would be escorted out of the country on the next flight," Malkevich said. Malkevich said he had flown to Moldova on vacation. The Moldovan border police confirmed that Malkevich had been denied entry to the republic, saying that the reason for the refusal was his inability to state the purpose of his visit. "We confirm the fact that a Russian citizen was refused entry to Moldova today. The reason is that the person did not fulfill the conditions for permission to cross the state border. At border control, he could not state the purpose of the visit to the republic," the border police told Sputnik. It added that Malkevich had been sent back via the Chisinau-Moscow flight. Moldova has previously denied entry to Russian journalists. In February, Moldova's border police denied entry to Russian NTV and Rossiya-1 broadcasters' crews, saying that the purpose of their visit and duration of stay in the country were not provided. The journalists were sent back to Moscow. (@FahadShabbir) The human rights and counterterrorism will visit Kazakhstan on May 10 to 17 to assess the impact of human rights and counterterrorism laws in the country, the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights said in a press release on Thursday WASHINGTON (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 09th May, 2019) The human rights and counterterrorism will visit Kazakhstan on May 10 to 17 to assess the impact of human rights and counterterrorism laws in the country, the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights said in a press release on Thursday. "The United Nations Special Rapporteur on human rights and counter-terrorism, Fionnuala Ni Aolain, will visit Kazakhstan for the first time from 10 to 17 May to assess the impact on human rights of counter-terrorism practices and laws," the release said. The Special Rapporteur will meet with high-level officials, including lawmakers and law enforcement officials, as she reviews legislative acts to ensure that Kazakhstan government's measures are in compliance with international human rights, the release said. In addition to visiting Kazakhstan's capital Nur-Sultan, the Special Rapporteur will visit other cities in the country such as Almaty, the release said. The Special Rapporteur will visit detention facilities to interview people suspected or convicted of terrorist or extremist crimes, the release said. Dr. Wendell Nedderman, who was president of The University of Texas at Arlington for 20 years, died on Wednesday, May 8. He was 97. Wendell Nedderman served as president of UTA for two decades. As the leader of UTA from 1972-92, Nedderman was a tireless advocate for the University and its students who frequently spoke of UTA as a positive-slope institution. It reflected his belief that everything about the Universityincluding its enrollment, funding, graduation rates, degree programs and overall growth and staturewas on a permanent upward trajectory. Someday, were going to be so darn big and so darn good, we cant be ignored, he said. Nedderman was the founding dean of the College of Engineering, arriving on campus in 1959 convinced that what was then Arlington State College was destined to grow, given its location between Dallas and Fort Worth. After a decade under his leadership, the engineering college became one of the largest and best in the Southwest. In the late 1960s, he served in a number of key positions, sometimes simultaneously. He was dean of engineering (1959-69), vice president for research and graduate affairs (1967-68), graduate school administrator (1967-69) and vice president for academic affairs (1968-72). In 1972 he became acting president, and in 1974, president. During his two-decade tenure as president of UTA, enrollment increased from approximately 14,000 students to more than 25,000, including a four-fold increase in graduate students. As president, Nedderman oversaw the construction of or major additions to more than 20 buildings, while adding approximately 60 bachelors, masters and doctoral degree programs. Wendell Nedderman and his granddaughter, Laura, who graduated from the UTA College of Engineering in 2017. Under his leadership, UTA added the School of Nursing and the School of Architecture and Environmental Design, now known as the College of Nursing and Health Innovation and the College of Architecture, Planning and Public Affairs. In 1987, he helped establish what today is known as the University of Texas at Arlington Research Institute on 18 acres along the Trinity River in east Fort Worth. He also oversaw the project to lower Cooper Street, adding pedestrian bridges over the busy roadway to better connect the east and west sides of campus and improve safety for students. I have had a unique experienceto participate and observe in the evolution of UTA, he said in 2016. UTA President Vistasp Karbhari said that Nedderman set the foundation and trajectory for the transition from a small college to one of the largest and best-reputed universities in Texas. President Nedderman was an inspirational leader, far ahead of his times in his vision for the University of Texas at Arlington, and his passion and dedication to excellence and student success set the standard and bar high for all those who follow him, Karbhari said. Our University is where it is todaya national powerhouse and a leader in teaching, research and outreachbecause of the path that he set and the battles he fought for UTA. His legacy will be felt for years to come and he will always be remembered as a Giant among University leaders. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and all those who held him in their hearts. Lisa and I were honored and privileged to have known him and will always remember his graciousness, his kindness, constant support and encouragement. Rest in peace, President Neddermanyour work and legacy lives on in the hearts of the thousands whose lives you touched, the success you enabled in others and in the University you built. State Sen. Royce West of Dallas said Nedderman was a crucial figure in UTAs history. President Nedderman was a transformative leader for UTA and a mentor, advisor and friend to many of its students, said West, a UTA alumnus. I count myself fortunate to have had our paths cross. Nedderman often referred to himself as an old country boy from rural Iowa whose father raised Hereford cattle, hogs and sheep. His own experiences as an Iowa farm boy turned doctoral student transformed him into a lifelong champion for improving access to a college education for tens of thousands of students, especially for transfer and first-generation college students. He famously toured the campus in a wheelchair to experience first-hand the accessibility challenges faced by students with mobility issues. It was more than a publicity stunt. It led to significant modifications across UTA and an award from Texas Gov. Dolph Briscoe Jr. in recognition of UTAs efforts to improve campus accessibility for people with disabilities. I think there was always an atmosphere of acceptability or friendship or support on the campus of The University of Texas at Arlington, Nedderman said in a 2014 interview. I always took pride in that. Nedderman was known for his gentle touch. For his first 17 years as president, he didnt have a reserved parking space, eventually acquiescing to an advisor who insisted the president have a designated spot. He once told incoming UTA students that their time in college should be spent learning, expanding their intellectual horizons, maintaining physical fitness, developing social skills, building friendships and, lastly, having fun. And please notice the order of my suggestions, he said. Throughout his career, Nedderman championed the city of Arlington, and UTAs role as both an asset and resource for the North Texas region. One of our greatest attributes is our strategic location in the heart of a booming Metroplex, he said in 1980. We are accessible to people. We regard the great community around us as our laboratorysomething to be interacted with, something to add relevance to our academic efforts; something to serve and something to draw strength from. Nedderman received numerous awards throughout his career, including Engineer of the Year from the Fort Worth chapter of the Texas Society of Professional Engineers; Citation for Service from the Arlington Chamber of Commerce; Service to People Award, Texas section, from the American Society of Civil Engineers; and Distinguished Honorary Alumnus from the UTA Alumni Association. He served on many boards, including the Arlington Independent School District, Arlington Memorial Hospital, Arlington Chamber of Commerce and the Texas Council on Economic Education. He also served as president of the Metropolitan Tarrant County United Way, the Arlington Kiwanis Club and the North Texas Higher Education Authority. Nedderman was born Oct. 31, 1921, near Lovilia, Iowa. The man who would help build one of the largest universities in Texas began his education as a boy in a one-room schoolhouse. He eventually graduated first in his high school class and enrolled in Iowa State Universitys civil engineering program. Nedderman attended college on what he says was a shoestring budget, but he was determined to finish and, he said, willing to do anything that it took to get away from the farm and graduate from Iowa State (University). He did so in 1943 in the middle of World War II and then promptly joined the Navy Reserve. As a commissioned officer aboard the destroyer USS Patterson, he earned eight battle stars and three campaign ribbons. Before he was 23, Nedderman had fought in the Marianas, the Philippines and at Iwo Jima and Okinawa. After the war, he moved to College Station, Texas, where he became an instructor in civil engineering. He also met Betty (Vezey) Nedderman and married her in 1947, a union that lasted 67 years until her death in 2015. He earned a masters of civil engineering from Texas A&M in 1949. The couple briefly moved back to Iowa, where Nedderman earned his PhD in civil engineering from Iowa State in 1951. Back at Texas A&M, he rose to the rank of professor before being recruited to become the founding dean of engineering at Arlington State College in 1959. Its first day as a four-year college coincided with his arrival as dean of engineering, he recounted in a 2013 interview. For the next decade, Nedderman helped grow the engineering school into one of the Southwests best, before becoming president. In 1992, he was named president emeritus and received the Mirabeau B. Lamar Award for leadership in learning by the Association of Texas Colleges and Universities. He also continued teaching in the College of Engineering. In a 2007 interview, Nedderman said the hallmark of his presidency was a philosophy of pride and optimism. You have this diverse group of alumni, legislators, regents, faculty, staff, students, all sometimes tugging in different directions, he said. You have to pull them all together with a feeling of great pride in your university. And I think there is no substitute for taking pride in your university and exhibiting great enthusiasm. Nedderman retired to Frisco, Texas, where he lived with his son Eric and his family. His wife, Betty, preceded him in death. The couple had four children and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. In honor of its 20th anniversary, The Venetian Resort kicks off a Year of Celebrations, an invitation to mark any occasion with friends and family at the iconic Las Vegas resort. From a milestone birthday or anniversary, to an over-the-top bachelorette party, The Venetian is providing new options and resources to make planning easier. To navigate the seemingly endless number of options in Las Vegas, the resort has introduced a dedicated Celebrations Team, specially trained experts who can create the most memorable experiences from start to finish. In addition, online tools and trip guides are available for guests to discover new small-group opportunities, giving travelers more turnkey options for their itineraries. Since inception, The Venetian was designed to accommodate groups of all sizes. Even with its grand scale, its team of experts can plan a party for 10 just as thoughtfully as 10,000. At a destination where our guests expect the world, we believe one of our most valuable services is to provide context and help curate the experience. This is what makes our Celebrations Team so impactful, said Marcy Miles, chief marketing officer for The Venetian Resort Las Vegas. Las Vegas provides infinite possibilities for a celebration vacation. Whether looking for activities for the ultimate family reunion, the best spot for a festive dinner, or the makings of an epic birthday weekend, we lighten the load by providing inspiration and valuable insights so our guests can focus on the fun. Some of the most popular moments developed by the Celebrations Team include: Bachelor and Bachelorette Parties: From a traditional weekend to a co-ed soiree, The Venetian has guests covered. Several experiences include a bar crawl through The Cocktail Collective venues The Dorsey, Rosina and Electra, and a Bourbon Tasting at Yardbird, paired with a four-course meal. Buddy Vs Ristorante offers tasting menus that were envisioned especially for bachelorette parties. We found that bachelorette groups sometimes request a lighter meal before a night at the clubs, said Rebecca Stebbins, director of Celebrations at The Venetian Resort. Our team has gleaned insights like these while helping to plan these parties. Weddings Redefined: No two love stories are alike, and with the assistance of The Venetian Celebrations Team, each guest is able to create an event that is genuinely their own. Couples receive a stress-free custom itinerary for their wedding. We can team rehearsal dinners and cocktail receptions with fun activities like poolside yoga or the Ceviche Challenge, a chef-led hands-on cooking demonstration at Chica, continued Stebbins. This gives couples the chance to put their own, unique spin on the festivities making for an unforgettable weekend. Birthday Weekend: A birthday comes only once a year, and guests are welcomed to go all-out at The Venetian. The Celebrations Team can help curate an itinerary fit for an epic weekend. There are so many options at The Venetian, depending on the make-up of the group, said Stebbins. For instance, Canyon Ranch Spa has a Celebrations Suite that is the ultimate respite for those looking to relax while spending time together. In contrast, Lagasses Stadium has multiple VIP suites for groups to gather and watch a televised sporting event in a way they never have before. TAO Nightclub has been the citys go to location for milestone birthdays for years, and even offers a complimentary Turning 21 birthday package for those who inquire in advance. Anniversary Getaway: Anniversaries are an opportunity to re-connect. Romance reigns at the resort, and guests can plan anything from a vow renewal on an enchanting gondola, to a delectable dinner in an award-winning restaurant, to a breathtaking helicopter tour of the Las Vegas Strip. Whatever a guest desires, The Venetian can make it a reality. While anniversary getaways tend to be more couple focused, a recent trend addresses the other side of the coin, said Stebbins. Newly separated people are inviting friends along for a Divorce Weekend. In fact, TAO Nightclub and TAO Beach have a special table package catered especially to these groups. Family Reunion: When the time comes to bring the family together, The Venetian Celebrations Team is a great resource. Creating an itinerary fit for all ages can be a challenge, but with an expert working through the details, each guest will walk away feeling the trip was designed just for them. There are options here that most would not expect, said Stebbins. We have had groups host private poker tournaments, shopping excursions, or themed dinners in our private dining rooms. On March 8, 11 countries signed the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership or CPTPP in Chile. The agreement represents 13.5 percent of the global economy, a total of US$10 trillion dollars and 15 percent of the global trade revenue, equal to US$5 trillion. Members include Australia, Brunei, Canada, Chile, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Peru, Singapore, and Vietnam. Without the US, the overall gains have reduced to a third, but it still caters to around 500 million people. CPTPP will come into effect once six of its 11 members ratify the agreement. The agreement not only focuses on reducing trade tariffs between its members but also on reducing non-tariff measures by easing the existing regulations and making them more transparent, along with reforms in labor and environmental regulations. It also includes an investor-state dispute settlement (ISDS) mechanism that allows firms to sue governments under certain conditions. Ratification Vietnam ratified the CPTPP on 12 November 2018. Australia, Canada, Japan, Mexico, New Zealand, and Singapore have already ratified the agreement, which will come into effect on 30 December 2018. For Vietnam, the agreement will be in effect 60 days after it notifies New Zealand, the CPTPP depositary. Brunei, Chile, Malaysia, and Peru are the remaining countries that need to ratify the agreement. Economic impact on member countries According to a study by Peterson Institute for International Economics, GDP for Malaysia, Singapore, Brunei, and Vietnam will each achieve close to 2 percent growth by 2030 due to CPTPP. However, New Zealand, Japan, Canada, Mexico, Chile, and Australia will only grow by 1 percent or less. With the US backing out of TPP, the previous version of CPTPP, the country stands to lose a 0.5 percent growth in its GDP, which would have been worth US$131 billion. In addition, as per the study, US can lose an additional US$2 billion, as more firms will prefer trading with member countries to take advantage of tariff reductions rather than the US. Economic impact on Vietnam According to a recent study by the World Bank about the economic impacts of CPTPP on Vietnam, the countrys GDP can grow by 3.5 percent by 2030, assuming there is an increase in production. Imports and Exports Under CPTPP, imports and exports are predicted to grow by 5.3 and 4.2 percent respectively. If productivity increases, the gain could be much higher at 7.6 and 6.9 percent for imports and exports respectively. Tariffs The average trade-weighted tariffs under CPTPP will fall from 1.7 percent to 0.2 percent for Vietnamese exporters. Non-tariff measures The non-tariff measures are predicted to reduce by 3.6 percentage points in terms of ad valorem tariff equivalent. Sectors The F&B, tobacco, clothing and leather, and textile sectors will have the largest output growth under CPTPP. Other manufacturing sub-sectors along with services are also predicted to grow under the agreement. F&B and tobacco, clothing and leather, leather products, chemicals, plastic products, transport equipment and machinery are expected to see a boost in exports, while imports will grow for almost all the sectors. Income distribution CPTPP can lead to a reduction in poverty by 0.6 million at poverty line $5.50 a day relative to baseline conditions in 2030. All income groups will benefit to a certain extent from CPTPP; however, the higher-skilled workers will see the highest gains. Opportunities and Challenges Opportunities As market access increases and tariff commitments come into effect, industries such as textiles, footwear, electronics, and equipment have an opportunity to increase their exports to the member countries. As exports increase and the industries expand, the income growth generated from domestic production will continue to grow, leading to an increase in overall demand. However, with strict rules of origin conditions, domestic firms and investors will have to develop the sourcing industries to benefit from the free trade agreement. In addition to exports, CPTPP can also lead to an increase in FDI. However, Vietnam should continue to focus on the investment environment and protect intellectual property rights to create a conducive environment for investors who are looking to access markets such as Canada, Mexico, Chile, and Peru. Its not only the domestic sector which needs to reform under the CPTPP, but also the government institutions and administrative systems. The non-tariff measures of CPTPP focus on market reforms, transparency, and labor reforms, and Vietnam has an opportunity to make institutional changes to further align itself with member countries. Challenges The major challenge facing domestic firms is the lack of preparedness to take advantage of the CPTPP. The support industries are weak and with strict rules of origin conditions, it will difficult for firms to fully realize the benefits of CPTPP. Secondly, CPTPP provides a greater market access to domestic firms in Vietnam, but it also opens up the domestic market for foreign goods, which can increase competition. Analyzing the agreement, we can see that industries such as automobile and agriculture will face intense competition from member countries. Need to do Vietnam has to focus on comprehensive institutional reforms, which should include government institutions as well as administrative reforms. Making such changes can be disruptive and costly in the short-term, but in the longer run, it will help firms to take full advantage of such trade agreements and will eventually benefit the economy. Lastly, SME development and reform of State-owned enterprises (SOE) are key for Vietnam. SMEs account for a majority of the economy and labor market, and the government should support them if it wants the SMEs to align themselves further with the global supply chains. As for the SOEs, which has been suffering from corruption and lack of accountability, the government should continue with its divestments as it will lead to foreign investments, better management, and efficiency. Editors Note: This article was originally published in March 2018 and has been updated to reflect recent developments. China voiced deep disappointment late on Wednesday about Washington's plan to raise tariffs on Chinese imports on Friday, saying that it will take necessary counter-measures if the US tariffs increase takes effect. The planned tariffs increase on $200 billion worth of Chinese imports from 10 percent to 25 percent was filed by the Office of the US Trade Representative, and the filing appeared on Wednesday in the Federal Register, the Associated Press reported. In response, an unnamed spokes man for the Ministry of Commerce said in a statement on the ministry's website that escalating trade friction does not serve the interests of people in the two countries and the world. Major US trade bodies have urged the Trump administration to avoid further escalating tensions by suddenly increasing tariffs on Friday, while experts said it's sensible for China to continue negotiations in a measured way. "This is a predicament for soy growers," American Soybean Association President Davie Stephens said on Tuesday. President Donald Trump threatened in a tweet on Sunday to increase tariffs. Stephens, a grower from Clinton, Kentucky, said that US farmers are in a tough situation, and with depressed prices and unsold stocks forecast to double before the 2019 harvest begins in September, farmers urgently need the China market. "We need a positive resolution of this ongoing tariff dispute, not further escalation of tensions," he said in a release posted on the ASA web site. Nicole Kaeding, vice-president of federal and special projects at the Washington-based Tax Foundation, said that if the Trump administration follows through on the president's threat, it's US taxpayers, not Chinese taxpayers, who will pay the price thanks to higher prices and fewer job opportunities. The Information Technology Industry Council also warned against further raising tariffs. "Increasing tariffs will only continue to harm American consumers and businesses of all sizes and across all sectors, as well as threat en American economic growth and leadership in innovation," said Naomi Wilson, the council's senior director of policy for Asia. US chemical manufacturers also called for sensible trade policy solutions. Cal Dooley, president and CEO of the American Chemistry Council, said on Monday he believed the risks of continuing to use tariffs as a negotiating tactic with China are simply too high, and potential benefits remain unclear. Several organizations, including Tariffs Hurt the Heartland the national campaign composed of more than 150 of the largest US trade organizations in retail, technology, manufacturing and agriculture have in recent days highlighted the negative impact of tariff increases on the US economy and job market. They cited a report in February from Trade Partnership Worldwide as saying that increasing tariffs on $200 billion of goods to 25 percent, coupled with tariffs already in place as well as expected Chinese retaliation would reduce US employment by more than 934,000 jobs and push down the US GDP by 0.37 percent. According to data from the General Administration of Customs, two-way trade between China and the US declined 11.2 percent year-on-year to 1.1 trillion yuan ($162.5 billion) in the period from January to April. The fact that Beijing is still sending a delegation to the US for the trade talks is "very wise on China's part", said Gary Hufbauer, a senior fellow and trade expert at the Peter son Institute for International Economics in Washington. Douglas H. Paal, vice-president of the Asia Program at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, said it "makes sense to continue the talks because the alternative would be a drastic signal to markets". Vice Premier Liu He will visit the US on Thursday and Friday to attend the 11th round of the bilateral consultations on trade issues. An Introduction to Doing Business in Vietnam 2021 will provide readers with an overview of the fundamentals of investing and conducting business in Vietnam.... 2019 Banking Forum panel discussion The 2019 Banking Forum, held by the Saigon Times Group in cooperation with the State Bank of Vietnam (SBV), attracted various bank leaders, representatives of the SBV and governmental agencies, banking experts, as well as delegates from international financial institutions looking to invest in Vietnams banking sector. The forum gave an overview of the SBVs monetary policies in 2018 and directions for the future, while taking into account the external factors affecting the macro-economy. A major part of the programme was dedicated to discussing solutions to help the banking system improve its internal strength for future growth. Key topics included bank restructuring, non-performing loans, technology investments, human resource development, and green credit. According to experts at the event, the restructuring of the banking sector saw positive results in 2018, as evident in gradually reduced bad debts. Some small banks started reporting profits again, while several large banks achieved their profit targets. Faced with fluctuations in the global market in 2019, the SBV is adjusting its monetary policies in order to support the development of the banking sector in the coming time. Many experts shared the expectation that domestic banks will improve their capital mobilisation capacity, technologies and human resources to keep pace with their Asian peers. However, they also agreed that banks will need to prioritise the enhancement of internal capabilities to overcome challenges in their growth journey. PwCs approach is to put people at the heart of banks transformations, meaning that banks should train or recruit talent to employ technology in a way that caters to customers needs and facilitates the human interactions between banks and their customers. Sharing experience gained from advising banks on both strategies and operations, Vo Tan Long, technology consulting partner at PwC Consulting Vietnam said that local banks should focus on two key tasks, including improving management capabilities and raising operational efficiency. These can be achieved by means of transformations, including digital transformation and workforce transformation. Long emphasised that digital transformation is not just about technology, as it can drive a fundamental change in existing processes and procedures in banks. Banks can expect positive changes, such as higher productivity and accuracy, better management of operational and credit risks, and lower cost-to-income ratio, among others, said Long, added that banks can also improve their customer service quality, and create new products and services with digital transformation. Speaking with reporters on the sidelines of the 2019 Banking Forum, Long noted that digital transformation is tightly linked with workforce transformation. The latter is a major concern not only for local banks but also their global peers. In fact, PwCs latest global CEO Survey revealed that nearly 80 per cent of CEOs in the banking and capital markets sector are worried about a lack of skills, particularly those needed to innovate effectively and provide a winning customer experience. PwCs approach is to put people at the heart of banks transformations. That means that banks should train or recruit talent to employ technology in a way that caters to customers needs and facilitates the human interactions between banks and their customers. Bank leaders should start early conversations with their staff about where their organisations is heading to, so that they can understand how automation and artificial intelligence will affect their jobs. Most importantly, business models will need to be redefined to fit the new reality of the talent and technology in banks. The award was given to 10 local banks having completed fund transfer transactions with a 90 per cent or higher correct ratio. The list features leading state-owned and joint stock commercial lenders Vietcombank, BIDV, Agribank, VietinBank, Techcombank, Military Bank, VP Bank, ACB, Sacombank, and Eximbank. The Citi Excellent Straight Through Processing (STP) Award programme seeks to honour financial institutions and banks that possess state-of-the-art international payment services with highly qualified international transactions. The Citi Excellent Straight Through Processing (STP) Award programme has been going for 14 years and has proven to be one of the most prestigious awards to honour financial institutions and banks that possess state-of-the-art international payment services with highly qualified international transactions. This award is an excellent proof of the increasing quality of Vietnamese banks operation taking advantage of new technologies and standards, said Pham Huu Hai, head of Corporate Banking at Citi Vietnam. Citi is committed to invest in technology and global transaction banking infrastructure to help our clients transact in a faster and more efficient manner. The award ceremony was part of the Seminar on Treasure and Payment, Global Trade, Compliance, Anti Money Laundering (AML) and Regulatory Changes with the participation of senior executives from Citi Asia-Pacific and Citi Vietnam. Additionally, the event provided a platform for sharing experience and providing training in cash and trade products to bring about maximum benefits for each and every participating bank. Rice packaging for exports (Photo: VNA) Rice packaging for exports (Photo: VNA) An Giang (VNA) Any transactions with Chinese businesses should be conducted via contracts in line with international trade practice, heard a conference in the Mekong Delta province of An Giang on May 8. The warning was given by Dao Viet Anh, Vietnams Commercial Counselor in China, who suggested Vietnamese busniesses consult commercial affairs offices and trade promotion agencies in both Vietnam and China to seek suitable and prestigious partners. They should study Chinas export-import regulations, especially those regarding food, farm produce and seafood, he said. To gain a firm foothold in the Chinese market, it is necessary to improve product quality and packaging, develop brand names, learn about local peoples taste and step up trade promotion activities, Anh said. Nguyen Hong Quang, Deputy Director of the Centre for Trade and Investment Promotion of An Giang province, said China has made changes in policies towards exports through official channels, which offer tax incentives but tighten regulations on product quality and origin. Besides, Vietnamese farm produce and seafood exported to China are facing fierce competition with those from other ASEAN countries, the Vietnamese Trade Office in China warned. Moreover, Vietnamese exporters lack information about the market, partners and policies of China, it added. China is now Vietnams largest trade partner, with bilateral trade value growing about 20 percent annually. In 2018, Vietnams exports to China hit 63.9 billion USD, up 27 percent year-on-year, of which An Giang contributed 840 million USD, up 2.43 percent. Huawei Chief Financial Officer, Meng Wanzhou, is due to appear in court in Vancouver where she was detained in December on a US warrant. (AFP/Don MacKinnon) Canada's justice department said the court was to set the next key dates in an extradition process - including the start of the formal hearing for Meng Wanzhou, which could take months or even years. Meng herself had been expected to make only a brief appearance before the judge to deal with matters described by officials as "administrative in nature." But defense lawyers took several hours to renew their objections to her arrest in Vancouver in December while seeking a variation of her bail terms that would allow her to move to a larger residence in Vancouver for the duration of the case. The prosecution, meanwhile, indicated that it wished to fast-track the proceedings. But haggling over the disclosure of evidence - with the defense lamenting heavy redactions of 1,742 pages of documents released so far - risked drawing it out. Relations between Ottawa and Beijing were thrown into crisis by the arrest of Meng, the chief financial officer of telecom giant Huawei and possible heir to her father's company. Washington wants to put Meng on trial on fraud charges for allegedly violating Iran sanctions and lying about it to US banks, but the case has become a major irritant for Ottawa. Following her arrest, China detained former Canadian diplomat Michael Kovrig and Canadian businessman Michael Spavor in what observers saw as retaliation. China later announced it suspected Kovrig of spying and stealing state secrets and alleged that Spavor had provided him with intelligence. Two other Canadians convicted of drug trafficking, meanwhile, were sentenced to death. And Beijing recently blocked Canadian shipments of canola and pork worth billions of dollars. Canada has accused Beijing of arbitrarily detaining both Kovrig and Spavor, and called the death penalties for Canadians Fen Wei and Robert Schellenberg "cruel and inhumane." It has also rallied the support of a dozen countries, including Britain, France, Germany and the US, as well as the EU, NATO and the G7, in its diplomatic feud with China. CAUGHT BETWEEN US, CHINA Most recently, Ottawa has pressed Washington - which is threatening a trade war with Beijing -- to step up its pressure on behalf of the detained Canadians. "Canadian lives are at stake," an unnamed Canadian official stressed to broadcaster CTV. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has insisted that Meng's case would be dealt with by the courts, and not politicized. He sacked his ambassador to China in January for suggesting that Meng had a "strong case" against extradition, citing remarks by US President Donald Trump that he might seek to have the charges against Meng dropped in exchange for trade concessions from China. On Wednesday, Meng's lawyers raised what they called Trump's "corrosive" comments as proof that the case was politically motived. They also refuted the principal accusation that Meng misrepresented to US banks Huawei's business dealings in Iran. Meng was released on bail in mid-December in Vancouver, where she owns two residences, on a Can$10 million bond. She has also been ordered to wear an electronic anklet and hand over her passports. She is now suing the Canadian government, alleging false imprisonment and a breach of her rights. In court documents, Meng alleges that border officials and federal police delayed executing the US warrant by three hours during her stopover at the Vancouver airport in order to question her and search her luggage and electronic devices, hoping to glean evidence to be used against her at trial. Huawei is also facing separate US charges for allegedly stealing American technology, and in recent months has faced a US campaign to blacklist it over espionage fears. Canada has said it will decide before a federal election in October whether to join the US and other Five Eyes intelligence partners in banning Huawei from Canada's fifth generation wireless networks. Local manufacturers are fully capable of processing scrap into export goods According to the southern province of Binh Duongs Department of Planning and Investment, a textile and garment project from Hong Kongs Wai Chi Kai Knitting Company will soon be licensed, and could be the first billion-dollar project of 2019. Located in Dong An 2 Industrial Park, the Weijia Textiles Vina venture aims to benefit from huge export opportunities given by the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP). Other potential billion-dollar projects include the $4.3 billion US-backed Energy Capital-invested gas-to-power project in the southern province of Bac Lieu, and the long-awaited $4.6 billion ExxonMobil initiative in the central province of Quang Nam. Up to now, the Bac Lieu Peoples Committee has been urging the Ministry of Industry and Trade to fast-track the appraisal process in order to add the gas-to-power project to Vietnams Power Development Master Plan VII, finish funding procedures, and then grant an investment certificate to the foreign investor. In addition to these three mammoth projects, other major plans are finalising procedures to be licensed this year. They include the $500 million project of South Korean-invested Hana Micron, which in mid-April signed a co-operation agreement with the Bac Giang Industrial Zones Management Authority in the northern province of Bac Giang to develop a hi-tech and semiconductor device factory. Apparel Far Eastern is seeking to increase an additional $610 million in its existing production, while Meiko Electronics is to add $200 million to Vietnam-based facility. Elsewhere, CP Foods of Thai billionaire Dhanin Chearavanont, is planning to invest $200 million in a pork and domestic fowls centre in Vietnam. If these huge projects are licensed this year, it is possible that Vietnam can break the 2018 figure of $35.46 billion of newly-licensed projects, added foreign direct investment (FDI), and stake acquisitions. In the first four months of 2019 the figure reached $14.59 billion, up 81 per cent on-year and reaching a four-year record high. The investments have been said to take advantage of the CPTPP and to ease risks from the ongoing US-China trade tensions. LG Electronics has announced that it will halt smartphone production in South Korea, putting the future of the second-tier smartphone brand in question amid a shrinking market share and heated competition from Chinese companies. It plans to move its high-end smartphone production from a plant in Pyeongtaek, on the outskirts of Seoul, to a factory in Vietnams northern city of Haiphong. With the move, LG is developing its Vietnamese operations into a global production hub in a similar fashion to electronics giant Samsung. Similarly, leading Taiwanese computer maker Compal Group plans to expand its production capacity in Vietnam to raise the groups exports to $1.5-2 billion per year, according to Ray Chen, the groups vice president. Nguyen Mai, chairman of the Vietnam Association of Foreign-Invested Enterprises, said, In 2014, Vietnam could not compete with China in FDI attraction, but now it can. Chinas changing investment policies have caused foreign investors to exit the country and seek other destinations, including Vietnam and Indonesia. According to an APEC survey released recently by global tax and legal services firm PwC, Vietnam tops the targets for cross-border investment among the APECs 21 member economies, with net 46 per cent planning to increase funding over the next 12 months alone. With major trade deals like the CPTPP, the EU-Vietnam and the ASEAN-Hong Kong free trade agreements on the horizon, Vietnam has the potential to attract even more investment and generate new cross-border business opportunities, said Dinh Thi Quynh Van, general director of PwC Vietnam. Christopher Malone, managing director at Boston Consulting Group, said that Vietnam made great achievements in FDI attraction over recent years. However, to compete in FDI attraction in the future, there are two things that are absolutely critical. The first is the focus on increasing the countrys innovation capacity, and the second is the need for specialisation, he said. In April, more than 350 foreign investors were granted codes to participate in the Vietnam's securities market. - Photo tienphong.vn Of them, 44 were institutional investors and 312 individual investors. In April, VSD removed securities trading codes from six foreign investors. Foreign investors bought a net volume of 13.34 million shares in April, worth more than VND1.02 trillion (US$43.5 million), significant decreases of 76.6 per cent in volume and 9.88 per cent in value over March. As of the end of April, the securities market of Vietnam drew the participation of more than 4,240 foreign institutional investors and more than 26,000 foreign individual investors. In 2018, more than 5,530 securities trading codes were granted to foreign investors, 2,300 more than 2017. The number of trading accounts of domestic investors exceeded 2.2 million as of April. The National Forum on Developing Vietnam Technology Companies has the theme Aspiration, Vision, and Strategy for a Prosperous Vietnam and the slogan Make in Vietnam. In his keynote speech welcoming guests and opening the form, Minister of Information and Communications Nguyen Manh Hung highlighted the role of technology companies in the country's development. Nguyen Manh Hung, Minister of Information and Communications, addressing the National Forum on Developing Vietnam Technology Companies The four topics to be discussed include resolving issues for Vietnamese technology enterprises, Vietnamese technology enterprises' role in helping Vietnam overcome the middle-income trap, policies and solutions for developing Vietnamese technology enterprises, and connecting technology businesses. The forum has attracted a lot of technology companies and media agencies Technology companies showcasing their products at the forum Vietnamese technology enterprises play an important role in leading the national transition and the building of a digital economy and digital society. This February, Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc also signed Decree No.13/2019/ND-CP on science and technology enterprises. Accordingly, technology enterprises will be given exemption and reductions in corporate income tax as well as land and water rental fees, in addition to credit incentives. Moreover, technology enterprises will also receive support in scientific research to enable them to bring products into actual production. President Donald Trump is in a bitter standoff with US Congress over the access to his tax returns. (AFP/Brendan Smialowski) The bill still has to be approved by the New York State Assembly, but that body is dominated by Democrats, making its passage all but certain. The bill - the latest round in a battle between the Republican president and the Democrat-led House of Representatives - will then have to be signed by Democratic Governor Andrew Cuomo, who has already signaled his support for the plan. Introduced by Democratic-Senator Brad Hoylman, the bill authorises the state's fiscal authorities to share tax declarations with three congressional committees in Washington. In most US states, taxpayers have to submit three separate tax returns - one to the federal government, one to the state and one to the city or municipality they live in. On Tuesday, the US Treasury refused a demand by Congress to hand over Trump's federal tax returns, which it was demanding as part of the wide-ranging investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 US elections. The submission of the former real-estate mogul's New York state tax returns could offer a first, if partial, insight into the current financial situation of the president, who has declared himself to be a multi-billionaire. Trump is the first president since the Watergate scandal in the early 1970s not to make his tax returns public. Two years ago, the MSNBC journalist Rachel Maddow uncovered Trump's tax filings from 2005, but nothing more recent has so far been unearthed and the president has refused to any effort to release them. On Tuesday, the New York Times published a report that Trump declared business losses of US$1.17 billion between 1985 and 1994. The Le Meridien Saigons wedding weekend was organised for couples seeking advice and inspiration for the celebration of their special day. Under one roof, guests had the opportunity to admire venue settings, gain a host of ideas for their special day from wedding consultants and get inspiration for everything from wedding gowns and suits to bespoke shoes, floral arrangements, video and photography, makeup and styling, and other wedding essentials such as jewellery, invitation card designs and chocolate gifts. At the Wedding Showcase, future brides and groom were taken on an interactive wedding experience via a one-of-a-kind open house journey. Couples gained exclusive access to the top-class Presidential Suite on the hotels 22nd floor, an ideal venue for stylish pre-wedding photoshoots and exceptional bachelor and bachelorette parties. Following the visit to the Presidential Suite, the in-house 5 star chef presented couples with gastronomic delights perfect for a sumptuous wedding reception in a food tasting session at Bamboo Chic restaurant on the 9th floor while the skilled Explore Spa masseuse serenaded love birds with romantic spa services. The Wedding Showcase 2019 by Le Meridien Saigon presented wedding suppliers to soon-to-weds, as well as introducing various services that help take the stress out of wedding organisation. Attendees received advice from top speakers and specialists about self-wedding planning, wedding budgets and the latest trends in flower, makeup and hair. The highlight of the event was a fashion show featuring the latest stunning bridal trends from the citys leading bridal house Linh Nga Bridal. The Wedding Showcase offers a unique opportunity for couples to see our world-class facilities and meet wedding vendors under one roof. We believe that Le Meridien Saigon is one of the most suitable venues in the heart of Saigon offering superb and flexible event spaces. With our highly skilled banqueting and events team, executing countless details with precision and passion at your special day is our accomplishment and mission. We encourage our guests to just relax and let us bring each wish to life by creating the perfect wedding day that reflects each couples unique story, said Justin Malcolm, general manager of the hotel. As part of the wedding showcase couples making a confirmed booking for their wedding banquets within one month of the event date will receive a 15 per cent discount on the wedding master bill. Additionally, couples choosing to celebrate their special day at the hotel will have a choice of wedding gifts from Le Meridien Saigon including honeymoon trips to selected Marriott International hotels in Hong Kong, Thailand, Singapore and Vietnam as well as receiving valuable gifts from the hotels wedding partners. Standing modestly next to the gently flowing Saigon River in Ho Chi Minh City, Le Meridien Saigon awaits the arrival of curious and creative-minded travellers seeking a unique yet authentic way to explore this destination. At the heart of the Central Business district, the hotel offers convenient access to popular attractions in the city with exciting stories to tell, from ancient pagodas and French-colonial structures, such as Saigon Opera House, Notre Dame Cathedral and the General Post Office, to modern shopping centres and Nguyen Hue walking street. Tan Son Nhat International Airport is conveniently located just seven kilometres away. Le Meridien Saigon welcomes guests back at the end of each day of exploration with contemporary and stylish rooms that offer either panoramic river vistas or views of the bustling cityscape, along with its state-of-the-art fitness centre and sensorial experience at Explore Spa. Le Meridien Saigon 3C Ton Duc Thang, D1, Ho Chi Minh City Tel: 028 6263 6688 ; Website: marriott.com/sgnmd Nguyen Anh Nhuong Tong spoke about the problems with YouTube at Yeah1's shareholders' meeting on May 8. Source: nld.com.vn This was shared by Yeah1s chairman Nguyen Anh Nhuong Tong at the compan'y shareholders' meeting on May 8. Due to the failure, the firm only set a 19 per cent revenue growth target for 2019, a marked reduction against previous years 60 per cent. In my 41 years of life I have never seen so many upheavals, Tong said. It will take at least six months to overcome the difficulties. Yeah1 upload about 400 hours of video content a day, which equals all other Vietnamese channels combined. Fast growth brings huge risks and the problem with YouTube is a valuable lesson for us, Tong added. Accordingly, Yeah1 set the targets of reaching VND2 trillion ($86.95 million) in revenue and VND180 billion in profit in 2019, up 19 and 10 per cents on-year. As of the end of the first quarter of 2019, its net sales hit VND387 billion ($16.82 million), up 17 per cent on-year. However, after-tax profit was only VND8 billion ($347,826), a sharp fall against the VND29 billion ($1.26 million) in the same period of last year. Regarding plans for development, Tong stated that Yeah1 will focus on developing its own platform and a social network. In addition, Yeah1 will follow the global mergers and acquisitions trend among content makers and content distributors. Developing our own content and taking advantage of our multi-channel network to approach users is more sustainable than depending on YouTube. In the short term, Yeah1 will provide video content for other YouTube channels and gain 50-60 per cent of the advertising revenue. Since global video platform YouTube announced stopping working with Yeah1, the local multi-channel companys stock has fallen from VND245,000 ($10.6) in last June to around VND100,000-110,000 ($4.34-4.7), down nearly 60 per cent. However, local securities company Rong Viet assumed that Yeah1s own content is not as impressive as the content for which it purchased the broadcasting rights. Developing their own video contents will require huge resources and a long time. In short, its potential for growth on YouTube is still large, but its plan for growth is unclear, said Rong Viets representative. Yeah1 is working with France-based Something Big to produce video content for children. The firm is also partnering up with US-based Viacom to exclusively distribute Nickelodeons cartoon videos on YouTube and Facebook in Vietnam and Thailand. In the middle of March, YouTube accused the multi-channel network SpringMe Pte. Ltd., in which Yeah1 owns 17 per cent of the shares, that some of its channels violated YouTubes policies. This led to the global video platform stopping work with all other Yeah1s firms runningYouTube AdSense like Yeah1 Pte., Ltd., and ScaleLab LLC. Vietnam Silicon Valleys meteoric rise gives faith and much-needed opportunities to the local startup community Photo: Le Toan Local startups have seen opportunities of getting investment from the National Technology Innovation Fund (NATIF) worth VND1 trillion ($43.48 million) because the Ministry of Science and Technology (MoST) is drafting a new decree to help startups getting access to the fund, according to Pham Hoang Lan, head of the Division of Planning and Finance under the MoSTs National Agency for Technology Entrepreneurship and Commercialisation Development (NATEC). Lan told VIR that the fund initially served science and technology firms, which have long experience in the sector. However, over the past time, due to the increasing number of technology startups, facilitating them to approach the fund to develop their business is understandable. According to the latest information published at the MoSTs annual meeting in April 2018, the NATIF disbursed VND221 billion ($9.6 million) for 21 technological projects. Thus, opportunities for startups to reach the rest VND779 billion ($33.87 million) are immense. PROLONGED DIFFICULTIES Shortage of capital and prolonged losses are the two biggest difficulties for startups. Nguyen Xuan Truong, former CEO of local delivery company AhaMove, told VIR that these issues are quite common among startups. The lack of capital as well as the governments limited support have led to a fierce competition over investors among local startups. According to Pham Kim Hung, co-founder of Tech Elite, the number of investment funds in Vietnam is limited and they also expect startups to reach a certain point of development before opening their wallets. Startups in the US have to prove their potential by ideas, but startups in Vietnam have to prove their potential by results, said Hung. Similarly, technology startups also face difficulties in approaching the NATIF due to the complex procedures. Pouring capital into startups is venture investment, so the government has to carefully examine each project before making a move, Truong told VIR. In addition, many kinds of tax, including trade license and value-added tax, have set a sizeable burden on startups. Most startups, like AhaMove, have suffered losses due to lacking capital and paying tax rates disproportionate with startups revenue, said Truong. SUPPORT FROM GOVERNMENT AND VSV Aiming to resolve startups tax difficulties, the government issued Decree No.13/2019/ND-CP in February, providing new incentives for science and technology companies. The decree officially took effect on March 20, 2019, yielding phenomenal initial results. Accordingly, these firms are exempt from corporate income tax for four years and receive a 50 per cent exemption for the next nine years. The decree also stipulated that science and technology companies are eligible for exemption or a reduction of land and water surface rental fees. Not only the government, support from Vietnam Silicon Valley (VSV) also opened development opportunities for local startups. Discussing the issue with VIR, Lan from NATEC said that VSV has mobilised about $1 billion for startups, and expanded its model to 10 provinces and cities, supporting hundreds of startups across the country. In June 2013, the MoST officially approved the VND60 billion ($2.6 million) VSV project for a duration of 60 months. The project was officially put into operation in October of the same year via calling for investment and selecting startup ideas. The project seeks to create an ecosystem of innovation and technology commercialisation in Vietnam by combining the Vietnamese entrepreneurial spirit and innovative nature with the most successful practices the US has in order to offer startup development and mentoring, accelerators, and venture capital funding and investing. Five years ago, we began by providing free co-working space, the VSV model, and capital for startups research projects. Since then, the assistance and capital we can mobilise have improved by a great deal, said Lan. The Vietnam Silicon Valley Accelerator (VSVA), which implements VSV, in early 2019 announced its fifth investment programme named VSVA Bootcamp 2019, promising to mobilise $20,000 of investment capital from funds across the globe, about $100,000 from partners, and provide four-month consultancy for each selected startup project. Throughout its five years in operation, VSVA has so far called investment into nearly 60 startups with an average $200,000. In addition, VSVA also become a strategic partner of Microsoft Vietnam, Lotte Group, several Korea-based funds, and other overseas investors. The most important thing for an investor is to always be by your side whenever you need them. We have always appreciated VSVA for being part of Lozis development, said Nguyen Hoang Trung, founder and CEO of Lozi.vn, a local technology firm providing a trading platform with more than eight million users across the country. Similarly, Phung Khac Huy, founder and CEO of local delivery company Ship60 that has more than 2,000 customers, also said that VSVA has been a steadfast companion since Ship60s establishment. Huy lauded VSVAs support during negotiations with big clients like Vietnam Post, Lazada, Adayroi, VinMart, Lotte, and even during calling investment from Korea-based funds. RAISING LOCAL STARTUP SCENE Since the 1970s, Silicon Valley has generated extreme amounts of wealth to the US and has given birth to big names like Apple, Facebook, and Google, becoming an inspiration for startups in the whole world. According to statistics from the US National Venture Capital Association, the US lures in $50-60 billion in annual venture investments, and the Silicon Valleys projects account for 50 per cent of this. The investment is equal to 0.23 per cent of the US GDP, but creates about 21 per cent of the GDP and 11 per cent of jobs in the entire economy. Similarly, Singapore, which is the Asian Silicon Valley, and Israel, which is a powerful country of startups, are the dynamic proofs of how technologies and science can impact economies. Vietnam is definitely not an exception as developing science and technology is one of the governments priorities. The country is home to more than 15,000 startups, the majority of which specialise in technology. With about 60 per cent of the nearly 100 million population using the Internet, Vietnam is a promising land for startups. As compared to other nations startup landscape, Vietnam still has a long way to go to become a new Silicon Valley. However, in only five years, VSV has become a name to look out for on the local startup scene, and is looking back on a successful preparation run to become the countrys very own Silicon Valley. Show more Show less Russia Todays documentary, My Mother Sold Me, which aired in October 2017, depicted a young Cambodian woman selling her daughters virginity. The film went viral but it wasnt good news for Cambodian fixer, Rath Rott Mony, who worked for RT. Cambodian authorities labeled if fake news and jailed him for incitement to discriminate. Now, Monys family says the Russian government, which bankrolls RT, should be working to get him free. VOA Khmers Chetra Chap reports. Indonesian President Joko Widodo is expected to warm toward China in his second term in search of infrastructure funding instead of challenging Chinese sovereignty in a fishery-rich sea between them. The leader who since 2014 has emphasized domestic issues in Asias third largest country rather than foreign policy initiatives will probably build up Indonesias status as a node in Chinas $1 trillion-plus Belt and Road Initiative, scholars who know the country say. The 6-year-old initiative is aimed at opening trade routes around Eurasia via infrastructure projects. Indonesias government will repel any Chinese vessels from waters it claims near the Natuna Islands, experts say, but otherwise avoid confronting the militarily stronger China over maritime sovereignty. The president, often known by his hybridized name Jokowi, won a second five-year term April 17. Although Jokowi sought to downplay Chinese-funded projects in recent elections, he is likely to continue the current stance of attracting Chinese capital for infrastructure development while reinforcing defenses around the Natuna islands against Chinese encroachments and illegal fishing, said Mohan Malik, a professor in Asian security with the Daniel K. Inouye Asia Pacific Center for Security Studies in the United States. Stable Sino-Indonesian relations would advance Beijings goal of keeping Western-aligned powers out of the South China Sea dispute, possibly in Indonesias defense, while ensuring that the impoverished archipelago of some 13,000 islands gets vital infrastructure support. No compromise on the Natuna Islands Widodos next five years as president are expected overall to extend his maritime policies since 2016. Widodo parted ways around then with five predecessors by trying to shape Indonesia as a maritime power, according to published research by the East-West Center think tank in Honolulu. It says he sought to turn Indonesia into a two-ocean, Indo-Pacific power in view of the archipelagos expanse. China claims most of the 3.5 million-square-kilometer South China Sea that reaches from the Natuna chain to the Chinese mainland. China doesnt claim the tiny Natuna islets, but in 2016 its foreign ministry cited historic rights for its fishing boats to use nearby waters. Indonesian authorities have burned dozens of foreign fishing boats, and last year the country opened a base in the Natuna Islands with a hangar for drones and up to 1,000 personnel who could be trained for any kind of operation. Back then, Jokowi basically said you need to guard Indonesias status as a maritime power," said Alan Chong, associate professor at the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies in Singapore, referring to Widodo's first term. The base, he said, "is in line, very clearly in line, with that. Also last year, Indonesia renamed part of the disputed ocean tract the North Natuna Sea, drawing an angry response from China. China might look for natural gas deposits in the contested waters, said Carl Thayer, emeritus professor at the University of New South Wales in Australia. But if Indonesia just repels individual Chinese vessels without making a political scene, he said, its harder for China to initiate any trouble. Unless theres provocation or an incident that comes up, Indonesia basically wont react too much to the matter of those islands, said Tai Wan-ping, Southeast Asia-specialized international business professor at Cheng Shiu University in Taiwan. "They might make a verbal response but not military action. Capital from China Indonesias reliance on China for help developing infrastructure will temper ambitions to stand up for the Natuna waters, some analysts believe. Widodos comments on foreign relations are aimed at courting Chinese development help rather than in taking a stand on issues such as the South China Sea crisis, writer Nithin Coca said in a report for the Lowy Institute for International Policy in Australia. Indonesia was once more cautious in its approach to the Belt and Road, conscious of ensuring that investments bring real benefits to the nation while minimizing any negative effects, Jakarta-based investment research and advisory institute Tenggara Strategics said last year in a research paper. In August, Widodo told the Indonesian Peoples Consultative Assembly his government would focus on acceleration of infrastructure development to catch up with other countries and create new economic centers in the country. China has already offered billions of U.S. dollars to Indonesia for infrastructure such as a railway line on the main island Java. Too much could irritate Indonesians who already resent China so much that they rioted in the 1960s against ethnic Chinese in their country. He wants the ports through the archipelago to be modernized and the sea lanes to become the really major safe transit route, and so getting extra crumbs or not so much crumbs, half a loaf of bread, from China would be to his advantage, but I think there also is an underlying anti-China sentiment in Indonesia, Thayer said. North Korea has fired what appears to be two short-range ballistic missiles, South Koreas military said Thursday. It was the second time Pyongyang fired missiles in less than a week. One of the projectiles traveled 420 kilometers and the other traveled 270 kilometers, South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff said in a statement. The missiles were launched from North Pyongan province in the country's northwest and flew eastward, the statement added. The province is home to a missile base at Sino-ri that houses the Nodong medium-range ballistic missile, according to the Center for Strategic and International Studies Beyond Parallel program. South Korea's presidential Blue House said it is very worried about the apparent short-range missile launch, adding it does not hlep inter-Korean military tensions. South Korean officials say Seoul has increased security preparations in case of additional launches. Recent tests North Korea on Saturday tested what analysts described as a short-range ballistic missile. Before that, Kim had not tested a ballistic missile since November 2017. The latest launch comes as Stephen Biegun, the U.S. special representative for North Korea, meets South Korean officials in Seoul. The tests threaten to further upend nuclear talks between North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and U.S. President Donald Trump. Last April, Kim announced he would suspend nuclear and intercontinental ballistic missile tests. The self-imposed moratorium was never formalized, but has helped facilitate the two summits between Trump and Kim. North Korean state media on Wednesday characterized the Saturday launch as self-defensive and nothing more than part of the regular military training. The missile launched Saturday appeared to be a short-range ballistic missile designed after a Russian weapon. In that test, North Korea also launched several other projectiles from a multiple rocket launcher. Testing US limits After that launch, analysts said they expected North Korea to continue to test weapons as a show of frustration at the stalled nuclear talks. The North Koreans are testing the U.S. response. Theyre trying to find out where the ceiling is, in terms of U.S. tolerance for provocations, said Scott Snyder at the Council on Foreign Relations. It would appear that following these tests that the North Koreans may decide that they havent hit the ceiling. For a year, Trump has said talks with Kim are progressing. As evidence, he cited a lack of nuclear and missile tests. Trump responded cautiously to the Saturday launch, saying he still believes Kim is open to a deal. Kim wants the U.S. to relax sanctions in exchange for steps to dismantle his nuclear program. Trump says he will not ease sanctions until Kim commits to abandoning his whole nuclear arsenal. The URL has been copied to your clipboard The code has been copied to your clipboard. Special steps are being taken to help severely malnourished children in the Rohingya refugee camps in Bangladesh. As Dave Grunebaum reports from Cox's Bazar, these measures are necessary to prevent the children from suffering long-term consequences. China says it has "made all necessary preparations" if the United States follows through on a pledge to impose a new set of tariffs on Chinese goods, as its chief trade negotiator arrives in Washington for another round of talks aimed at ending its trade war. Vice Premier Liu He, President Xi Jinping's top economic advisor, will sit down with U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin Thursday, a day before tariffs increase from 10 percent to 25 percent on $200 billion worth of Chinese imports. U.S. President Donald Trump set the Friday deadline to raise tariffs after the United States accused China of reneging earlier this week on commitments made during months of talks to end their trade war. "They broke the deal. So they're flying in. The vice premier tomorrow is flying in, but they broke the deal. They can't do that. So they'll be paying," Trump told supporters at a rally in Florida. Earlier Wednesday, Trump said he would be "happy" to maintain tariffs on Chinese imports, and added that Beijing would be mistaken if it hopes to negotiate trade later with a Democratic presidential administration. Chinese Commerce Ministry spokesman Gao Feng told reporters in Beijing Thursday that China will not bow to any pressure, and warned it has the "determination and ability to defend its own interests." The ministry issued an earlier statement vowing to take any "necessary" countermeasures if the tax is implemented. The Trump administration hopes the new tariffs will force changes in China's trade, subsidy and intellectual property practices. The two sides have been unable to reach a deal due, in part, to differences over the enforcement of an agreement and a timeline for removing the tariffs. Cubans were dismayed on Thursday to learn Canada's embassy in Havana was no longer processing visa applications due to staffing cutbacks over unexplained health incidents among Canadian and U.S. diplomats in the Cuban capital. Canada, which in January reduced its embassy to skeletal staffing, announced on Wednesday it would no longer process applications for visitor and residence visas or work and study permits. The U.S. Embassy had already reduced staffing and stopped processing visa applications in 2017. Cubans have been forced to go to third countries for them, adding expense and difficulty. Canada said in a statement Cubans could apply for a visa at an embassy in a third country or online but it was not clear if Cubans always had to pick them up abroad. Canada's foreign ministry did not immediately reply to a request for comment. "It's terrible. Now I have to go to another country to try visit my sister in Canada," said Rossana Real, 52. Her sister emigrated more than a decade ago, and Real tries to visit her regularly. Canadian and U.S. diplomats posted in Havana began complaining of unexplained dizziness, headaches and nausea in the spring of 2017. The cause of the mysterious illnesses has not been determined. Hopes have dwindled for investigations to find a cause of the incidents. U.S. officials have accused Cuba of failing to keep diplomats safe, but Cuba has denied involvement and says anti-Castro politicians in Washington have manipulated the matter. But Canada has good relations with Cuba. For decades it has been the Caribbean island's most important tourism market and is an important economic partner. More than a million Canadians visited Cuba last year. "We never had problems with Canada," said Real. "This really surprised me." The embassy situation is an added frustration for Cubans at a time that reforms to the beleaguered, centrally-planned economy have stalled. While relations with Europe are steadily improving, they have plummeted with the United States and former Latin American allies like Brazil whose governments swung to the right. A decline in aid from embattled ally Venezuela and a tighter U.S. trade embargo have resulted in shortages of even basic goods like eggs and flour. Travel to the United States had already become an odyssey; now even travel to old ally Canada has become difficult. "I would like to see my daughter and her husband but now I can't," said Hilda Pereira, 80, who arrived at the embassy with a granddaughter and was surprised to find it shut to the public. "If I can't go directly to Canada, I won't go." Damage from Cyclone Fani in eastern India and southwestern Bangladesh last week is raising concern about what could happen if a similar storm struck southeastern Bangladesh, which has a large refugee population. A disaster risk reduction specialist for the United Nations refugee agency (UNHCR) based in the border town of Coxs Bazar tells VOA there are an inadequate number of cyclone shelters. Fani killed dozens of people and left hundreds of thousands homeless. However, India is being credited with preventing more deaths by evacuating more than 1 million people. Vulnerable camps More than 700,000 Rohingya Muslims have fled to Coxs Bazar from neighboring Myanmar since August 2017 because of a military crackdown. The refugees now live in overcrowded camps that are vulnerable to storm surges, floods and landslides. Before the recent influx of Rohingya into Bangladesh there were already more than 200,000 Rohingya refugees in Coxs Bazar whose families had fled previous bouts of violence. Plus there are approximately a half-million Bangladeshis who live in the subdistricts near the camps. Emergency response workers say its impossible to predict how much damage the area would suffer or what the death toll would be if a cyclone struck, but life and death concerns are being raised about the refugees, as well as the local host community. Few cyclone shelters UNHCR has not built any cyclone shelters in the refugee camps, said Marina Drazba a disaster risk reduction specialist for the refugee agency. There are only enough cyclone shelters to accommodate about 20 percent of the local Bangladesh community that lives near the camps. We need more cyclone shelters. Drazba said UNHCR wants to build cyclone shelters in the refugee camps but is not able to because the Bangladesh government has imposed tight restrictions on building them as well as any other permanent structures. Bangladesh has been overwhelmed by the massive number of refugees and is hesitant to take steps that would make it appear that the refugees whove come in recent years will be staying for the long term. If a cyclone hits Coxs Bazar, we [emergency teams] have very good plans in place when it comes to responding in the aftermath, Drazba said. But when it comes to what steps need to be taken before a cyclone strikes, more needs to be done. A judge has sentenced the fake German heiress Anna Sorokin to four to 12 years behind bars for defrauding New York banks and hotels The German con artist who passed herself off as a wealthy heiress was sentenced Thursday to four 12 years behind bars for swindling New York banks and hotels out of tens of thousands of dollars. Judge Diane Kiesel says she was stunned by the depth of the defendant's deception at Anna Sorokin's sentencing in Manhattan state court. Sorkin was convicted last month on multiple counts of grand larceny and theft of services, and has been in custody since her October 2017 arrest. Moments before she was sentenced, Sorokin briefly addressed the court, saying, I apologize for the mistakes I made. Sorokin went by Anna Delvey when she defrauded financial institutions and Manhattan celebrity circles into believing she had a fortune of about $67 million (60 million euros) overseas that could cover her jet-setting lifestyle , high-end clothing and lavish hotel stays. The 28-year-old falsely claimed her father was a diplomat or an oil baron, and falsified bank records and forged her identity to further the scam. Her ruse included an application for a $22 million loan to fund a private arts club, complete with exhibitions, installations and pop-up shops, prosecutors said. She was denied that loan but persuaded one bank to lend her $100,000 that she failed to repay. In all, prosecutors accused her of stealing some $275,000, including a $35,400 bill she failed to pay for a plane she chartered to and from the Berkshire Hathaway shareholders meeting in Omaha, Nebraska. She went to great lengths to ensure others paid her way, even as she had not a cent to her name, as far as we can determine, prosecutor Catherine McCaw said following Sorokin's arrest. But jurors acquitted her of two counts, including an allegation that she promised a friend an all-expenses paid trip to Morocco and then stuck her with the $62,000 bill. She was also found not guilty of one of the most serious charges in the indictment: attempting to steal more than $1 million from City National Bank. Manhattan jurors did convict Sorokin of four counts of theft of services, three counts of grand larceny and one count of attempted grand larceny following a monthlong trial that drew international attention and tabloid headlines about Sorkin's courtroom fashion. Her defense attorney, Todd Spodek, argued Sorokin had been buying time and planned to settle her debts. He said she lacked criminal intent and was an ambitious entrepreneur. The three students who disarmed a gunman in a Colorado school shooting leapt up from their desks without a word and with no thought for their own safety when they spotted the gun, recounted one of the young men. They slammed the teenager, a classmate of theirs, against the wall and struggled with him when shots rang out. Kendrick Castillo, who led the charge, slumped to the ground. His close friend, Brendan Bialy, wrestled the gun away and called out to Castillo. There was no response, Bialy told a roomful of reporters on Wednesday as he recalled what happened the previous day at STEM School Highlands Ranch. Kendrick went out as a hero,'' Bialy said. He was a foot away from the shooter and instead of running the opposite direction he ran toward it.'' Authorities said the actions of Castillo, Bialy and Joshua Jones minimized the bloodshed from Tuesday's attack at the school south of Denver that wounded eight students along with killing the 18-year-old Castillo. The injured includes Jones, who was shot twice, according to a statement released by his family. A private security guard employed by the school detained the second armed suspect, officials said. The guard fired his gun during the confrontation, according to a law enforcement official who spoke on condition of anonymity because the official was not authorized to release the information. The official did not say whether anyone was injured by the guard's weapon. News organizations have reported that authorities are investigating whether the guard fired at a responding sheriff's deputy and wounded a student. The security guard's attorney, Robert Burk, did not confirm or deny the reports, but he said his client acted in the best interests of protecting the children at the school. He did not name the security guard. He ran there as quick as he could and took what I think is decisive action that helped save lives,'' Burk said Thursday. The guard was employed by Boss High Level Protection, a company started by a former SWAT team leader who responded to the Columbine shooting. The owner, Grant Whitus, told The Associated Press the security guard is a former Marine who ran to the area of the shootings and confronted one of the armed students in a hallway. The guard drew his weapon and apprehended the person, Whitus said. He doesn't even realize how many lives he saved by stopping a school shooting,'' Whitus said. Douglas County School District spokeswoman Paula Hans declined to comment on any actions the guard took and referred questions to the sheriff's department. STEM School administrators didn't immediately respond to an email from The Associated Press. Castillo was remembered Wednesday night at a vigil that was hit by disruptions, with many students staging a walkout amid complaints the vigil had been politicized and failed to include their voices. Hundreds packed a high school gym for the event organized by the student arm of the Brady gun control group that included pro-gun control speeches by presidential hopeful Sen. Michael Bennet and U.S. Rep. Jason Crow, both Democrats. At one point, someone shouted that students should be allowed to speak, and organizers talked with students in a hallway about how to include them. Some students chanted and others railed against the media and called for remembering Castillo. Students eventually were invited to speak. Teacher Emily Muellenberg told Colorado Public Radio that organizers had reached out to students before the event but didn't hear back. During the interview about the shooting ordeal, Bialy acknowledged that he was scared, but he said the shooters completely and utterly lost to good people.'' The attackers were identified by law enforcement officials as 18-year-old Devon Erickson and a 16-year-old who prosecutors identified as Maya McKinney but whose attorney said uses male pronouns and the name Alec. The two allegedly walked into the STEM School Highlands Ranch through an entrance without metal detectors and opened fire in two classrooms. Because the attack happened only miles from Columbine High School and just weeks after the shooting's 20th anniversary, questions quickly arose about whether it was inspired by the 1999 massacre. But investigators offered no immediate motive. A member of the school's robotics club and a relentless tinkerer, Castillo had an infectious smile and gentle sense of humor, according to friends. He worked part-time at a local manufacturing company that had offered him a job after an internship because he was such a standout employee. To find he went down as a hero, I'm not surprised. That's exactly who Kendrick was,'' said Rachel Short, president of the company, Baccara. Cecilia Bedard, 19, had known Castillo since elementary school and said he was always friendly, modest and excited to help people. He made a point of always joining his father at Knights of Columbus fundraisers and bingo nights. He was amazing,'' Bedard said. He was honestly the sweetest kid I ever met. Never said a mean joke.'' Both suspects were students at the school, and they were not previously known to authorities, Spurlock said. Erickson made his first court appearance Wednesday and kept his head down. His black hair, streaked with purple dye, covered his face as he nodded in response to most of District Court Judge Theresa Slade's questions. At one point, the judge requested a verbal answer to whether he had any questions about the proceedings. Erickson simply replied No.'' McKinney, who has a short brown haircut, made eye contact with the judge and answered questions in a clear but quiet voice, saying Yes, your honor'' and No, your honor.'' District attorney George Brauchler said he has not decided whether to file adult charges but added that McKinney is old enough to be charged as an adult without a judge's review. Formal charges were expected to be filed by Friday. Brauchler said he could not discuss any motive or weapons used in the attack. Brauchler said the community remains resilient in the face of multiple shootings, including the 1999 Columbine school massacre, the 2012 theater shooting in the Denver suburb of Aurora and the 2013 shooting at Arapahoe High School. The attacks are aberrant acts'' although they might seem otherwise to the rest of the world, he said. Who we are is a kind, compassionate, caring people, and this does not define us.'' Libyan Prime Minister Fayez al-Sarraj says his rival for power, General Khalifa Haftar, is trying to stage a coup and take Libya by force. "He's dreaming of entering Tripoli," al-Sarraj told France 24 television in Paris Wednesday. "This attack must be clearly condemned because it is an attempt to overthrow the (government's) legitimacy and seize power ... the destruction of the (political) process was carried out by the Khalifa Haftar, not the government of national accord and we are ready to return to the political process once conditions are met." Haftar leads a rival government in eastern Libya. His Libyan National Army moved against al-Sarraj's U.N.-installed government last month, but has been bogged down by government forces and their allies in Tripoli's southern suburbs, unable to take the capital. Some Libyan civilians caught in the fighting have said they don't care who wins, they just want the fighting to stop. U.N. officials say the fighting has killed 440 people and forced tens of thousands to flee their homes. Many are staying in migrant detention centers. Airstrikes reportedly hit one center in eastern Tripoli Tuesday, wounding two. Another report says a hole was blown in an airplane hangar housing women. A baby came within inches of being hit by shrapnel. U.N. authorities are also investigating the suspected use of an armed drone by Haftar's forces or a possible third party supporting the general. The U.N. says whoever used the drone or sent it to Haftar would be violating the arms embargo against Libya. The U.N. and humanitarian aid groups say the fighting may lead to a new refugee crisis as civilians try to escape to Europe by attempting the dangerous crossing via the Mediterranean Sea. They also fear terrorist groups, such as Islamic State, will take advantage of the chaos. People in overextended Mexican border cities are voicing concern over the continuation of a U.S. policy that makes Central American migrants seeking asylum in the United States wait south of the border. A U.S. federal appeals court ruled Tuesday that the Trump administration can make migrants wait in Mexico for their immigration hearings while the policy is challenged in court. On Wednesday night, Mexicos immigration agency said 4,217 Central American asylum-seekers had been returned through three border cities. The U.S. government has said it wants to expand the program along the entire border. Mexicos government did not comment following the court decision, but those closer to the issue did. Transferring problem The United States should resolve their problem there and not transfer it to us, said Mayor Armando Cabada of Ciudad Juarez, which lies across the border from El Paso, Texas. Juarez has received 1,344 returned asylum seekers, more than any other city, since the program started in San Diego on Jan. 29. The 11 Central Americans who are challenging the U.S. policy argue their safety has been put at risk by making them wait in Mexico for a process that could take years. Migrants in many Mexican border cities have typically made easy targets for organized crime gangs that kidnap them to extort money from relatives or try to recruit them into drug and human-trafficking businesses. Vicente Sanchez Munguia, a public administration researcher at the College of the Northern Border in Tijuana, said some border cities have suffered critical security situations for years. It would really expose the migrants to possible security threats, he said. The speed at which they process (asylum) cases in the United States could cause the number of people applying and waiting in Mexico to increase and create a critical situation. The policy requires asylum seekers who have made their applications to report to the border on the days they have court hearings. U.S. government personnel transport them to court and then bring them back to the border afterward to re-enter Mexico. Easy prey Clara Long, an investigator with Human Rights Watch researching the policy, known colloquially as remain in Mexico, said the returned migrants she interviewed were afraid. She interviewed one woman in Juarez this week who was raped while looking for a place to stay and another who was kidnapped and had to buy her release. They have no idea what to do to keep themselves safe, she said. Two families with young children who were returned to wait in Mexico last week were told Wednesday they had to leave the shelter where they had been staying, because they were only allowed seven days. They have no idea where theyre going to go and what theyre going to do, Long said. Some with relatives who could wire money were staying in cheap hotels, but often deciding between paying for a room and eating, she said. Others were squatting in abandoned homes around the city. No official Mexico comment Mexicos foreign relations ministry did not respond to requests for comment. The Mexican government has emphasized previously that the policy is a unilateral U.S. measure and that Mexico will focus on the humanitarian treatment of migrants. The U.S. government sees the policy in part as another deterrent to migrants seeking asylum. Whereas asylum seekers were often released into the U.S. after passing an initial credible fear interview, especially those with children, and told to return for court hearings, the new policy returns many to wait in Mexico. But the U.S. government has also been overwhelmed by the number of families from Central Americas Northern Triangle, Honduras, El Salvador and Guatemala, and says it does not have a place to house them. In April, the Border Patrol apprehended 109,144 migrants, the highest number since 2007. Claudia Portela of the Padre Chava shelter and food kitchen in Tijuana said some migrants in that situation have been staying there. It causes great uncertainty, insecurity, Portela said. Some can have an easier time if they get work permits in Mexico, but otherwise their lives are very precarious. They are going to be easy prey for organized crime, Portela said. Theyre vulnerable. U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi on Thursday accused President Donald Trump and his administration of "every day ... advertising their obstruction of justice by ignoring subpoenas" issued by opposition Democratic lawmakers for oversight of him, the White House and government agencies. Pelosi, the leader of the Democrat-controlled House of Representatives, unleashed her verbal attack a day after the House Judiciary Committee overrode Republican opposition and voted to hold Attorney General William Barr in contempt of Congress. Lawmakers cited Barr for refusing to turn over an unredacted copy of special counsel Robert Mueller's report on his 22-month investigation into Russian meddling in the 2016 U.S. presidential election and allegations that Trump, as president, obstructed justice by trying to thwart the probe. Pelosi said she agreed with Congressman Jerrold Nadler, the Judiciary panel's chairman, that the U.S. is in "a constitutional crisis," as the stalemate continues between House Democrats and Trump, a Republican who has vowed to fight all Democratic subpoenas demanding testimony from his administration's top officials and key documents. Earlier in the week, Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin rebuffed a request by the House Ways and Means Committee for six years of Trump's federal tax returns to examine whether he has hidden overseas investments, particularly in Russia. The committee's chairman, Congressman Richard Neal, said he would decide by week's end whether to subpoena the returns or file a court challenge to try to force Mnuchin to turn over the secret annual documents. Pelosi said at a news conference that the House Democrats' investigations "will give us the facts and the truth. This is not about Congress or any committee of Congress. It's about the American people and their right to know, and their election that is at stake, and that a foreign government intervened in our election, and the president thinks it is a laughing matter." Pelosi said, "It's appalling that this administration would not even pretend to want to protect our elections, and in fact, be an obstacle to our finding out more about how it happened, so we can prevent it from happening again." 'Self-impeachable' Pelosi, however, has resisted calls by some Democrats to start impeachment proceedings against Trump. Earlier in the week, Pelosi said, "Every single day the president is making the case. He's becoming self-impeachable." But she told reporters Thursday, "Impeachment is one of the most divisive things that you can do, dividing a country, unless you really have your case with great clarity for the American people." With the Judiciary Committee voting to hold Barr in contempt of Congress, the full House must now consider the contempt citation. But Pelosi said she is not rushing toward a vote. Mueller testimony Pelosi said she is waiting to see whether Mueller testifies before Nadler's committee about his handling of the Russia investigation. Trump has said he does not think Mueller should testify, considering it a "redo" of the investigation. But Trump said Thursday he would leave it up to Barr. The Trump-appointed attorney general, the country's top law enforcement official, has said he has no objection to Mueller testifying before congressional panels. A senior U.S. State Department official said there is no need for President Donald Trump to sign an executive order to explicitly ban Chinese telecommunication company Huawei from taking part in the buildout of the U.S. 5G networks. The four largest U.S. telecom carriers Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile and Sprint have agreed not to use Huawei in any part of their 5G networks, said Ambassador Robert Strayer, deputy assistant secretary of state for cyber and international communications and information policy. Strayer spoke with VOA about U.S. 5G policy and security concerns over Huawei. He also said the United States will only use trusted vendors, including South Koreas Samsung, Swedens Ericsson and Finlands Nokia, in the buildout of the U.S. 5G networks. WATCH: Is 5G Chinese Technology a Threat to US National Security? The following is an edited excerpt of the interview: VOA: VOA broadcasts to many countries in Africa and Asia. These are places eager to develop their economies with high-tech communications. What does the U.S. say to those countries, which are eager for 5G and see the most attractive equipment and financing packages for those networks are all Chinese? If countries resist the Huawei offer, how many years back does that set their 5G networks? What would be the alternatives? Deputy Assistant Secretary Robert Strayer: All around the world, were all very excited to see the promise of 5G technology. Its going to empower things like telemedicine, autonomous vehicles, autonomous manufacturing, and including autonomous transportation networks in general. So its going to be very important that network be incredibly secure because of all the critical infrastructure thats going to ride on top of it. We know that there are a number of vendors besides Chinese technology vendors that are providing the equipment, the underlying infrastructure for 5G networks. Those include Samsung in South Korea, Ericsson in Sweden and Nokia in Finland. So we believe those are trusted vendors. We have grave concerns about the Chinese vendors because they can be compelled by the National Intelligence Law in China as well as other laws in China to take actions that would not be in the interests of the citizens of other countries around the world. Those networks could be disrupted or their data could be taken and be used for purposes that would not be consistent with fundamental human rights in those countries. VOA: But its going to be a difficult choice. China is offering a great deal, in some cases 0% interest loans, 20-year payment plans, and what are the alternative plans like? Is there an analogy that you have that can show how turning down that kind of offer for something like 5G is actually in their long-term interest? Strayer: We think that there should be commercially reasonable terms applied to financing deals. Theres obviously private financing available from telecom companies, but there are also a number of multinational, multilateral development banks providing potential sources of financing for infrastructure deals around the world. We dont think that countries need to adhere to, be left with only the predatory lending terms that are often offered by the Chinese Development Bank and other financing mechanisms that the Chinese companies are offering. Zero percent interest for 20 years is not commercially reasonable. It comes with huge strings attached. In fact, many of these things arent even transparent enough for countries to know what theyre signing up to. Were encouraging countries to think carefully about how they will move into 5G, make sure that theyre applying and signing up to financing terms that are commercially reasonable and ones that they can pay back in the long term. We know of stories, of course, of ports being used as collateral in some of these financing deals, so countries could lose access to their very critical infrastructure under the terms of some of these deals. So we think that while 5G has huge promise and we should move quickly to it, were not in any way slowing ourselves down by going with vendors that are more trustworthy, and under financing conditions that are probably concessionary but are not at the level of some of these deals that are in no way reasonable in any type of commercial sense. VOA: If Washington is asking other countries to ban Huawei from their 5G networks, why hasnt the U.S. done so? I mean, the president has not signed an executive order on a comprehensive ban on Huawei, not just in the government, but in the private sector as well. Is the U.S. credibility at stake? How certain are you that the U.S. will ban Huawei equipment from its 5G network? Strayer: So in our view, we dont need to have a legal mechanism to ban Huawei in our private sector networks. The four largest U.S. telecom carriers have already agreed that they will not use Huawei or ZTE in any part of their 5G networks and theyre not using it in their 4G networks. So we dont think that we need a legal tool to force them to do so. In addition, last year in the National Defense Law that was enacted at the end of the year, the government was prohibited our U.S. government is prohibited from using these high-risk vendors. VOA: Chinese Vice Premier Liu He is coming to Washington this week for the latest round of trade negotiation with the U.S. There are allegations against Huawei for stealing U.S. intellectual property. How should Huawei and 5G be discussed in the bilateral trade talks? Could they be hurdles for the two nations to reach a deal? Strayer: I just want to be very clear that everything were talking about with countries around the world is about a national security threat that we see facing now, and that we think could have significant economic implications for them as well. We are not talking about this in the context of trade. And I would just mention, too, that the concerns we have about Huawei that are well-documented are related to corruption, related to the theft of intellectual property, and related to defying sanctions, and using basically money-laundering schemes, have raised great concern about that company itself, but theyre not part of our trade discussions. VOA: Is the U.S. lagging China in developing 5G infrastructure? Strayer: No. We think were leading the world. By the end of this year, well have 90 trials rolled out across the United States. Weve already seen them being rolled out by Verizon and AT&T. We think we are actually leading the world in this field and were using only vendors from those three countries I mentioned that are trusted vendors, not the ones in China. VOA: Thank you for talking to VOA. Strayer: Thank you. U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo cut short a European trip and returned to Washington for meetings on Iran and North Korea, a senior State Department official said on Thursday. Pompeo first changed his plans to have meetings on Iran after U.S. President Donald Trump on Wednesday imposed fresh sanctions on Iran over its nuclear program. The sanctions target revenue from industrial metal exports in the latest escalation of tensions between Washington and Tehran. Then, on Thursday, North Korea also joined the agenda, after the South Korean military said North Korea had fired missiles, less than one week after North Korean leader Kim Jong Un oversaw the test-firing of rockets and a missile. Pompeo had been scheduled to visit Greenland on Thursday, but instead left London for Washington. The tests by North Korea were its first of a ballistic missile since Pyongyang launched an intercontinental ballistic missile in November 2017. Since then, Kim has held two summits with Trump, but the second summit with Trump broke down. Officials in Pakistan say Islamic organizations have agreed to put some 30,000 madrassas, or seminaries, under the supervision of the Ministry of Education as part of the government's efforts to curb violent extremism in the country. Critics blame madrassas for the rising radicalization of Pakistan's youth and for serving as breeding grounds for transnational terrorist networks. The Pakistani military also has long been accused of covertly supporting some of these madrassas to train and send fighters to fuel conflicts in Afghanistan and a Muslim insurgency in the India-ruled portion of the disputed Kashmir region. The agreement has outlined rules and regulations for all madrassas in Pakistan to be registered with the education ministry and those who oppose the process will not be allowed to work, Education Minister Shafqat Mehmood told the local Geo News channel. Under the deal, the government will assist madrassa operators in opening their bank accounts and processing visas for foreign students seeking admission in Pakistani seminaries, the minister explained. Officials say the measure will enable the government to audit finances being provided to the seminaries in the name of donations and charities to deter terrorism-related transactions, and monitor activities of foreign students attending the institutions. The rare understanding comes days after the chief military spokesman Major General Asif Ghafoor, in an unusual move, unveiled government plans to bring much-sought reforms to madrassas to put them under state control. Analysts say the military's lead to announce the plan was apparently aimed at deterring any possible backlash from Islamic organizations and at sending a strong message to these entities that the state is determined to press ahead with its plans. The seminaries are largely ill-equipped. Children spend most of the time memorizing the Holy Quran, with almost no access to modern subjects. They can only get the job of a prayer leader at a mosque after finishing the madrassa education. Supporters of the madrassa system say they are offering free education to around 2.5 million children of poverty-stricken families in Pakistan, where an estimated 25-million children are unable to receive any education. Ghafoor says government scrutiny of all the seminaries has determined "less than 100 are suspected of involvement in promoting violent extremism and terrorism. An Islamic education will continue to be provided, but there will be no hate speech, the army spokesman said while announcing the reform program about two weeks ago. We want to end violent extremism in Pakistan and that will only happen when our children have the same education and opportunities, he stressed. Attempts by past Pakistani governments to mainstream the madrassa education system have faced strong resistance and threats of street agitation from religious groups for what they denounced as anti-Islam Western plot. Mohammad Amir Rana of the Islamabad-based Pakistan Institute for Peace Studies (PIPS) explained the reason for the military to take the lead and announce the madrassa reform program. This is quite a sensitive and critical issue and there is this thinking among the security institutions that no civilian government can handle it all alone and they need some harder perusal approach to implement the madrassa reforms, Rana said. Prime Minister Imran Khan, who took office last August, has vowed his government would not tolerate extremist or militant outfits operating on its territory. Rana noted that there has been no retaliation, so far, from Islamic groups to madrassa reforms because the announcement has come from the military, the institution long suspected of creating and patronizing some of the seminaries. I think this may be one of the factors behind this new approach by the security institutions that they always have been blamed for supporting these kind of extremist elements in the country whatever the purpose was, whatever the complicated history we have. But now they have decided to deal with it by themselves, Rana noted. A senior Pakistani official told VOA that Islamic leaders and clerics from all schools of thought will be barred from delivering sermons or speeches in their respective seminaries that fuel sectarianism among various Sunni sects and the rival minority Shiite Muslim community. The official requested anonymity because he was not authorized to speak to media on the subject. He noted the government has allocated an initial amount of $3.8 million (2.7 billion rupees) for the reform program. The process of hiring 100,000 new teachers to teach contemporary subjects at madrassas has started. Regional government officials will be appointed to support and coordinate with madrassa operators in mainstreaming the schools. If any madrassa are found involved in activities beyond their stated mandate the responsibility will rest with the religious leader running them, the official emphasized. Pakistani authorities in recent weeks have also taken control of hundreds of hospitals, seminaries and other facilities linked to banned organizations, including those designated as global terrorists by the United Nations. Anti-India Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Jamaatud Dawa (JuD) militant groups were also among them. Indian officials blamed JeM for orchestrating a deadly suicide car bombing in February that killed 40 paramilitary forces in India-ruled portion of the disputed Kashmir region. The move comes at a time of increased pressure on the country to act against Islamist groups that continue to operate religious seminaries and other facilities despite being designated as global terrorists by the United Nations. It is widely believed that Pakistans steps against Islamist groups and entities stem from pressure the Paris-based Financial Action Task Force (FATF) is putting on Islamabad to take effective steps against money laundering and terrorism financing. The FATF identifies jurisdictions with weak measure to combat money laundering and terrorist financing. Countries with inadequate controls for curbing money laundering and terrorism financing appear on the watchdog's "grey list." The group's "blacklist" is reserved for countries that fail to meet international standards in stopping financial crimes. The watchdog is due to meet next month to review Pakistani measures before a critical meeting in September where a final decision will be taken to either remove the country from FATF's grey list or to place it in its blacklist. In the event of being blacklisted, analysts say, Pakistans economic woes will worsen because international financial dealings and trade will face restrictions. Four prisoners were killed during a riot at a northern Myanmar jail, officials said Thursday, coming on the heels of an amnesty, which saw more than 6,000 inmates released -- including high-profile Reuters reporters Wa Lone and Kyaw Soe Oo. The unrest at Sagaing region's Shwe Bo prison began on Wednesday evening, said chief minister Myint Naing. "They were demanding for equal rights. They became anarchic," he said, adding that everything was now "under control." Myint did not say how the prisoners died. Military spokesman Zaw Min Tun said border affairs officials were called in to "control" the situation. "We heard there was some shooting," he said, adding that there were also reports of unrest in jails in Karen and Kachin states. The violence in Shwe Bo comes days after more than 6,000 people were freed in the latest round of presidential pardons -- part of an annual prisoner amnesty granted by Myanmar President Win Myint. According to local newspaper Eleven Media, prison department director Min Tun Soe said the riots were triggered over the inmate anger at not being included in the amnesty. In total, 23,000 prisoners were released in three rounds of pardons since April 17. The majority of those released are usually serving time for petty drug crimes, but Tuesday's release included Reuters reporters Wa Lone and Kyaw Soe Oo, who were jailed after reporting on the Rohingya crisis in northern Rakhine state. Myanmar has freed thousands since a military junta ceded power in 2011 after five decades of brutal repression. Former prisoners have denounced conditions in Myanmar's overcrowded prisons as abysmal. The European Union's 28 countries consume the Earth's resources faster than they can be renewed and none of them has sustainable consumption policies, a report released Thursday said, as EU leaders met to discuss priorities for the next five years. "All EU countries are living beyond the means of our planet. The EU and its citizens are currently using twice more than the EU ecosystems can renew," the report by the World Wide Fund (WWF) and Global Footprint Network said. It was issued as leaders met in the Romanian city of Sibiu to set the course for the bloc after Britain's planned departure from the EU. Climate change key priority French President Emmanuel Macron said before the summit that climate change was among his key priorities and it was included in the bloc's 10 "commitments" for the future until 2024, agreed by all the 27 leaders meeting in Sibiu. But the bloc is divided on how to achieve any ambitious climate goals and it remains far from clear how the Sibiu declaration would be implemented. Some 100 Greenpeace activists and students from several European countries marched through Sibiu carrying a huge banner saying "Broken Climate Broken Future." "We cannot talk about a prosperous future without a healthy climate," Greenpeace climate activist Alin Tanase told Reuters. Views on concrete action to be taken to combat climate change differ between EU countries, influenced greatly by their dominant industries, such as carmakers in Germany or the coal industry in Poland. Tusk sensitive to climate change The chairman of the summit, President of the European Council Donald Tusk, said there was no future for politicians who were not sensitive to climate change and environment protection issues. "The young generation is much more united on this than the member states. The truth is that nothing has changed when it comes to this divide and different opinions about this. What is new is this very fresh and energetic pressure," he told a news conference after the summit. Climate protection and sustainable development is also an important topic in the election campaign for the May 23-26 European Parliament elections, which will influence the leadership of European institutions and their programs. The European Commission has been pushing for the EU to become climate neutral by 2050 through reducing carbon emissions that will otherwise boost the Earth's average temperatures with devastating consequences. "The EU uses up almost 20 percent of the Earth's bio-capacity although it comprises only 7 percent of the world population," the WWF report said. "In other words, 2.8 planets would be needed if everyone consumed at the rate of the average EU resident," it said. Luxembourg smallest but fastest It said the EU's smallest and richest country, Luxembourg, was also the one which used up renewable resources the fastest last year. Just 46 days into the year, it had consumed its full share of the Earth's resources, it said. The EU's poorest nation, Romania, took the longest to arrive at that point, on July 12th. But that was still earlier than the world's average of Aug. 1, called Earth overshoot day. A French human rights group on Thursday sought to block the loading of weapons onto a Saudi Arabian vessel that is due to dock in northern France later in the day, its lawyers said, arguing the cargo contravened an international arms treaty. The move comes weeks after an online investigative site published leaked French military intelligence that showed weapons sold to the kingdom, including tanks and laser-guided missile systems, were being used against civilians in Yemen's war. France is one of Saudi Arabia's main arms' suppliers, but Paris has faced increasing pressure to review its sales because the four-year-old conflict has shattered Yemen's economy and created one of the world's worst humanitarian crises. Speaking on behalf of rights group ACAT, lawyer Joseph Brehem told Reuters he had filed a legal suit to prevent the weapons being loaded aboard the Bahri Yanbu, a cargo ship operating for Saudi Arabia's defense and interior ministries, on the basis of an article of the U.N. Arms Trade Treaty. "The article says that one country cannot authorize the transfer of weapons if at the time of the authorization, the country knew that weapons could be used to commit war crimes," he said. France's Armed Forces Minister Florence Parly on Wednesday confirmed the vessel would take delivery of French arms relating to an order dating back several years. Investigative website Disclose said this week that eight howitzer Caesar cannons, manufactured by Nexter, were part of the order. The French government declined to give details on the contents of the arms order. Guarantees France is a signatory of the U.N. Arms Trade Treaty that regulates the international trade of conventional weapons and bans the sale of weapons that fuel human rights violations or war crimes. U.N. experts have said all sides in the Yemeni conflict may have committed war crimes. Ship tracking data showed that the Bahri Yanbu had been at anchor off the northern French coast since Wednesday evening and had not yet docked at Le Havre. It is due to leave with its cargo on Friday night. The incident is awkward for President Emmanuel Macron and his government, which has said that as far as it knows French-made arms sold to Saudi Arabia are used solely for defensive purposes on the border. Macron said on Thursday that he had obtained guarantees from Saudi Arabia that weapons were not being used against civilians. He also defended sales to Saudi Arabia, which he called a key ally in the fight against terrorism. "Most of the weapons that have been sold are used inside [Saudi] territory or at the border, but they are used in the conflict," he told reporters in Sibiu, Romania, ahead of a summit of EU leaders. Russia on May 9 commemorated the 74th anniversary of the Allied victory over Nazi Germany in World War II with a military parade on Moscow's Red Square. President Vladimir Putin, Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev, and Kazakhstans former president, Nursultan Nazarbayev, attended the parade. Putin opened the parade by claiming in a speech that "the main liberator of Europe" from Nazi Germany was the Soviet Union and calling the Ukrainian capital, Kyiv, "an ancient Russian capital." "The victory was earned by the bravery of those who participated in defending ancient Russian capitals - Kyiv and the Great Novgorod, by the courage of the defenders of Smolensk, Odesa [a Ukrainian Black Sea port city], Sevastopol [a city in Ukraines Crimea annexed by Moscow in 2014], and the unlimited stamina of the residents of the blockaded Leningrad," Putin said. Putin on May 9 also laid a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier near the Kremlin. Annual Victory Day military parades in Moscow have been seen by the Kremlin's critics as a show of strength by Putin. Kremlin critics say Putin's government uses the celebrations to stoke patriotism but pays little attention to the need of aging World War II veterans. Russia's Defense Ministry said earlier that 13,000 troops and 130 pieces of military hardware took part in the parade, which was broadcast nationally on state-run TV. According to the ministry, representatives from all of Russia's armed forces and the National Guard participated. However, the Kremlin's flight control center said combat aircraft did not take part in the parade because weather conditions were unfavorable. Nazarbayev's presence alongside Putin came as a surprise. Putin's spokesman Dmitry Peskov had said earlier that no foreign leader would attend the event. Although Nazarbayev resigned as Kazakhstan's president on March 19, he retains the title "Leader of the Nation." Watch related video by VOA's Igor Tsikhanenka: Putin and other Russian officials wore Russia's Ribbon of St. George - a military symbol that, in recent years, has come to be seen in some former Soviet republics as representing Russian nationalism and dominance. Since 2017, the Ribbon of St. George has been officially banned in Ukraine as a symbol of "Russian aggression." Rather than the Ribbon of St. George, Nazarbayev wore a blue ribbon representing Kazakhstan's national flag. Russia's Land Forces Commander-in-Chief Army General Oleg Salyukov opened the parade and reported to Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu, who then led the event. Victory Day celebrations were also being held in several other former Soviet republics. But feelings of unity with Moscow inspired by the memory of the war are fading - and many of Russia's neighbors are wary of its intentions following its hostile actions against Ukraine. The way the end of the war is commemorated in other former Soviet republics now differs from country to country. An estimated 27 million Soviet soldiers and citizens were killed in World War II. A judge in Montenegro on Thursday sentenced 13 people, including two Russian intelligence officers, for a failed 2016 plot to assassinate the prime minister and put in a pro-Russian government. Judge Suzana Mugosa said the coup plotters wanted to "violently overthrow" the government and "prevent Montenegro from joining NATO." The two intelligence Russian agents, Eduard Shishmakov and Vladimir Popov, were sentenced in absentia and given 12- and 15-year prison terms. Interpol has an arrest warrant out for Popov. Two pro-Russian Montenegrin opposition leaders, Andrija Mandic and Milan Knezevic, were each given five years behind bars for their part in the failed coup. Mandic called the verdict a "complete farce" and Knezevic complained that the judge had no evidence against their opposition party. Both said they planned to appeal. Others getting jail terms Thursday included the former commander of an elite Serbian police unit, Bratislav Dikic. Prosecutors said the suspects aimed to carry out their plan on Montenegrin election day in October 2016. They allegedly hoped to seize the parliament and kill Prime Minister Milo Djukanovic, who was elected president last year. A key witness for the prosecution later told Serbian television that the defendants had no intention to violently topple the government, but only wanted to stage a pro-opposition rally. A U.S. State Department spokesman said Thursday that the prison terms were "a clear victory for the rule of law, laying bare Russia's brazen attempt to undermine the sovereignty of an independent European nation." Moscow called the accusation that it was involved in the plot "absurd." Montenegro joined NATO in 2017 and is also negotiating European Union membership. South Africa's electoral commission counted votes Thursday, the day after a parliamentary poll that was expected to be the toughest test yet for the long-ruling African National Congress. Initial results showed the ANC ahead, but with a much slimmer lead than it had held in previous elections and also turned up surprises, in the form of allegations of double-voting and in the unexpected success of a small party that critics say has a white nationalist agenda. This was predicted to be a dramatic vote for the Rainbow Nation, which this year marks 25 years after the end of Apartheid. As officials trudged through millions of votes on Thursday, election officials announced they would "urgently conduct" an audit into allegations that some citizens may have voted more than once, by removing the indelible ink voting officials put on every voter's thumb. Election officials said four people had been arrested for double-voting, and assured voters that they would still be able to release final results within the seven days allowed by law. Independent analyst Ralph Mathekga says he's concerned that other political parties will step up with allegations of irregularities, a move that he worries could delay results and have serious consequences. "It's a big deal," he told VOA. "We've not seen this before," he continued "... But to be honest with you, when you start going that route, it's a very, very, very serious challenge. When do you stop in pursuit of that kind of an inquiry? You're opening a floodgate, because if you start doing all, If you start doing all of these audits, everybody is going to complain, and when you hear that election results are not going to be announced on Saturday, for me, it's a crisis." Analyst Angelo Fick says he's less concerned, and doesn't foresee that results will be significantly delayed by the audit. Speaking from the national counting center, he told VOA the audit that's just been announced by the IEC is "a measure of their confidence in the fact that their systems have worked." He said they are "fairly confident that there has been no problem and they will now seek independent confirmation of that." "And this is also to allay the fears of those who are misreading the statistical significance of these irregularities because this happened in a number of stations across a country that had 22,000 voting stations," he added. "And I think it's also to start building up a bulwark against political parties who are going to suggest and have already begun to suggest that their underperformance is not a consequence of their own issues, but a consequence of electoral fraud." In the most populous province, Gauteng, the IEC's Boitumelo Monaki said officials were responsive to concerns about possible fraud. The province, which contains the nation's economic hub of Johannesburg, has been hotly contested by the top three parties. "I can confirm that counting is going well at our voting centers around the province," he told VOA. "And then where there are cases of fraud whereby double voting is being reported, the electoral commission is requesting political parties to bring evidence of that so that the matter can be investigated," she said. The long-ruling African National Congress is expected to win the greatest number of votes, followed by the opposition Democratic Alliance and the upstart, far-left Economic Freedom Fighters party. Early results showed the ANC taking a smaller share of the vote than it had in previous elections. Corruption scandals and the sluggish economy have tainted the ANC's image and led some voters to defect. Afrikaans surprise What pollsters did not see coming was the success of the Afrikaans-speaking VF Plus party, whose English name is Freedom Front Plus. The party's aim is to create a homeland for the nation's white Afrikaans-speaking minority. The fringe party surprised many casual observers by surging into fourth place in early counts, eclipsing its one-percent take in the 2014 election, though its take remains in the single digits. "It is," said Fick, "an electoral surprise, but it isn't a political surprise that the Freedom Front Plus has increased its share of the vote in South Africa." "We have seen a growing disaffection among people who identify in conservative circles and on the far right with the way which which the official opposition and other parties they may have supported have behaved over the last five years," he said. "With policy shifts slightly to the left, into the liberal territory, many voters may find that they are no longer happy, and no longer capable, of seeing themselves reflected in other parties and have shifted to the Freedom Front Plus." Turkey's surprise move to allow Abdullah Ocalan, the imprisoned leader of the outlawed Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK), to meet with his lawyers after an eight-year hiatus is spurring speculation of a shift in Ankara's hard-line policy following the 2015 collapse in peace talks with the rebel group. A nationwide hunger strike calling for an end to Ocalan's isolation spurred Turkish authorities to allow his lawyers a visit at Imrali Island prison where the 70-year-old Kurdish leader is being held. "The lawyers were informed they could meet Ocalan on the day of the announcement of a death fast [hunger strike leading to death], which involves at least 2 or 3,000, which has put the government in a difficult position," said Ertugrul Kurkcu, honorary president of the pro-Kurdish Peoples' Democratic Party (HDP). In a statement, Ocalan called on his supporters not to engage in activities that could harm them. What drew the most attention, however, was the rebel leader's call to Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) that "Turkish sensitivity should be taken into consideration." Turkey on the border Turkish forces are currently amassed on the Syrian border facing off against the SDF. Ankara accuses the People Protection Units (YPG), which makes up a large part of the SDF, of being a terrorist organization linked to the PKK. The PKK has waged a decades-long insurgency inside Turkey. "I think he is showing the YPG the limits they should remain within in the Syrian context and not bother the Turkish government," said Kurkcu. "He [Ocalan] seeks to finalize the situation without any losses of Syrian Kurdish population because Turkey is looking for an opportunity to intervene." Washington has been lobbying hard to prevent a Turkish intervention because the YPG is a crucial ally in its war against Islamic State. U.S. Special Representative for Syria, James Jeffrey, visited Ankara earlier this month for high-level talks to broker a solution. "We know James Jeffrey, the former U.S. ambassador to Ankara, is already the go-between to find the middle ground between the Ankara regime and the Kurdish political movement, be it in Turkey or Syria," said political scientist Cengiz Aktar. "So, the Ocalan lawyers' visit could be a proposal by him, because Ocalan is considered the symbolic leader of the YPG. We know from the Kurdish authorities in Syria that James Jeffrey was active to establish an indirect dialogue between Ankara and [YPG leader] Mazlum Kobane," Aktar added. Ocalan's influence Former senior Turkish diplomat Aydin Selcen, who founded Turkey's consul in the Iraqi Kurdistan regional capital, Irbil, said the significance of Ocalan's statement should not be overestimated. "Will it change anything on the ground? I am not sure, because on the ground, even the relationship between Qandil [PKK Iraqi headquarters] and the YPG commanders is quite opaque, not clear, let alone Ocalan's influence," he said. Selcen added, "What is the most interesting point is whether now there is some sort of coordination between the United States, the SDF, Ankara and Ocalan, and even perhaps between Qandil. That we shall see in the coming months." Reports of tentative communications between Ankara and the SDF, coupled with Ocalan's lawyers' meeting, is spurring speculation of a possible resumption of broader PKK peace talks. Turkish government members previously engaged in peace talks with Ocalan, which were accompanied by a PKK cease-fire and a partial withdrawal from Turkey. The process collapsed in 2015 amid mutual recrimination. The resulting fighting claimed thousands of lives and the destruction of numerous town and city centers across Turkey's predominately Kurdish region. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is ruling out a return to peace talks. "There is no question of such a thing as the peace process," he said Monday. Erdogan's AKP is in a coalition with the Nationalist Movement Party (MHP), which is ardently opposed to any peace talks. "It's [the AKP-MHP coalition] a problem, but it is also an opportunity," Selcen said. "It might mean Erdogan can change his coalition. It might mean he can opt for a new partner." Growing tensions? Turkish media have been awash with reports of growing tensions between the AKP and MHP, which have been exacerbated by the political defeat in most of Turkey's main cities, including Istanbul, during the local elections in March. Kurkcu played down hopes of new peace talks. "The present line of the PKK is devoted to changing the interlocutor, changing the negotiating partner, which they believe cannot be the AKP," he said. "The credit the AKP had five to six or seven years ago has vanished in tyranny. The AKP doesn't have the promise for any positive change in Turkey. It only offers dictatorship." Kurkcu confirmed that the HDP would again back Ekrem Imamoglu of the opposition CHP, who won the Istanbul mayoral election in March but is re-runningafter the AKP succeeded in having the vote annulled over claims of voting irregularities. A car bomb and gun attack against a U.S.-funded international relief organization in Afghanistan Wednesday killed at least five people, including a police guard, and wounded 24 others. Officials say Taliban insurgents attacked the nonprofit Counterpart International, which is a partner of the U.S. Agency for International Development. The NGO's president and CEO Ann Hudock told VOA's Afghan Service after the attack that all her staff is accounted for and safe. Zlatica Hoke has this report. Reporting from The New York Times shows that between 1985 and 1994, President Donald Trump reported $1.2 billion in losses, allowing him not to pay income taxes during most of that period. While Democrats demand Trump's tax returns, other battles are heating up. The White House is asserting executive privilege over special counsel Robert Mueller's unredacted report, and Democrats are preparing to hold Trump's attorney general in contempt. White House Correspondent Patsy Widakuswara has more. Official results for Thailand's first election since a 2014 putsch put a pro-military party within striking distance of forming the next government and returning coup leader Prayuth Chan-ocha as prime minister. A "democracy front" of seven allied parties hoping to block Prayuth's return fell just short of a majority of the 500 seats in the popularly elected House of Representatives and has already vowed to challenge the count in court. The results of the March 24 poll, released over a two-day period this week, give the pro-military Palang Pracharath party 115 seats in the lower house. Along with the 250 seats in the junta-appointed Senate likely to vote its way, the party now has nearly half the combined seats in the upper and lower houses it needs to make Prayuth, its candidate, prime minister. The results give the democracy front a combined 245 seats in the lower house, not enough to frustrate any government the pro-military parties might form, and far from the 376 needed to elect the prime minister. With no clear winner yet to emerge, both camps are scrambling to pull in more seats from smaller parties. But pundits expect Palang Pracharath to have an easier time wooing the smaller of the 26 parties elected to the lower house a record high for Thailand. While 350 constituency seats went to candidates who won the most votes in their districts, the other 150 were doled out to parties based on their candidates' combined national share of the vote. But the commission's formula for handing out those party seats has faced heavy rebuke. Ahead of the poll, the commission touted a formula that would have kept many of the smaller parties out of parliament. After a strong showing by the democracy front parties on election day, the commission drew up a new formula that brought in the smaller parties. Fourteen parties now have a one party-list seat each. The most prominent party in the democracy front, Pheu Thai, which ran a close second to Palang Pracharath in the popular vote, won no party seats at all because its share of constituency seats exceeded its take of the national vote. Thepparith Senamngern, deputy spokesman for Pheu Thai, said his party was likely to file a complaint over the election commission's formula with the Constitutional Court in a matter of days. On Wednesday, the court ruled that a provision in a law on electing legislators complied with the constitution. The court, however, did not rule on the formula itself, which Pheu Thai claims breached the charter and robbed the democracy front of about 10 seats, enough for a majority in the lower house. "Right now Pheu Thai has, with the legal team, been discussing a lot to actually go to the court to actually say that the calculation that the election commission wished to use is not legitimate, and we're now going to pursue that pathway," Thepparith said. "So I think within a few days we should be able to see our team go to the court." In the meantime, he said the democracy front was in talks with other parties to try to land the six additional seats it needs for a lower house majority, but declined to name them. "The party seniors have been talking to a lot of senior members of other parties, even after [the] elections. Some have been more positive, some have been more neutral, a lot of them have been saying let's wait until the actual number comes out," he said. "I don't think it's the end game yet." Yutthaporn Issarachai, a political scientist at Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University, said the front was unlikely to pick up any more seats. He said about 15 parties have declared for Palang Pracharath already and that stragglers were likely to ally with the pro-military party as well, given how close it was to holding enough seats to pick the next prime minister. "I think senators will vote with the Palang Pracharath, so small parties can see this," he said. The democracy front also risks losing some of its current seats. Leaders of the Future Forward Party, a key front member, are facing lawsuits on charges that they deny. If convicted, the party will be stripped of both constituency seats and votes won. Whichever camp prevails, Yutthaporn said the next government will be fragile, based on a coalition of many parties with a slim majority in the lower house, ever vulnerable to defections. "In the future, we [will] have a stability problem with the government and with the parliament," he said. "The next government cannot [be] stable." Calls to a spokesman for Palang Pracharath went unanswered. The election commission did not respond to a request for comment on Thursday. The commission has previously denied any bias. U.S. President Donald Trump acknowledged he literally found himself on slippery footing Wednesday, a timely simile to what his administration suddenly was confronting. At the start of a political rally in the Florida Panhandle, Trump complained about the condition of the stage. That runway is like an ice-skating rink and the first step was slippery," he said, jokingly adding: I think it was put in by the Democrats. That's a trap, the longtime real estate developer continued, adding when that happens you don't pay the bill. Later, he compared his sunny Florida podium to a slab of ice. WATCH: Taxes Aren't the Only Trouble for Trump Trump had headed south into friendlier territory for the evening, leaving behind for a few hours mounting trouble in Washington where he had asserted executive privilege to shield the full report by special counsel Robert Mueller from congressional scrutiny. Scanning his morning newspaper in the White House, Trump saw a front-page New York Times headline: "Decade in the Red: Trump Tax Figures Show Over $1 Billion in Business Losses." The president, on social media, responded that the story was very old information and a highly inaccurate Fake News hit job! Hours later, New York lawmakers took action that could lead to revealing Trump's state tax returns, something he has zealously guarded from public scrutiny. In the afternoon, a slew of bad news for the president rolled in from Capitol Hill. The Democrat-controlled House Judiciary Committee voted to recommend holding his attorney general, William Barr, in contempt of Congress. We are now in a constitutional crisis, committee chairman Jerrold Nadler told reporters after the vote, which was along party lines. House Intelligence Committee Chairman Adam Schiff also Wednesday subpoenaed Barr for counterintelligence from the two-year Russia probe of the special counsel. And, more surprisingly, the Republican-controlled Senate Intelligence Committee issued a subpoena for the presidents son, Donald Trump Jr., to testify about his June 2016 meeting with Russians. Uncharacteristically, throughout the day, the president avoided White House reporters. A Cabinet meeting that had been scheduled to be open to a group of journalists was suddenly closed to the press. Trump also did not stop to talk to reporters when he walked from the Oval Office to board his Marine One helicopter on the South Lawn. He eschewed other opportunities to speak with the media boarding Air Force One at Joint Base Andrews, did not step back into the press cabin during the flight to Florida and ignored questions while touring hurricane-damaged areas after landing in the Southern state. During his Panama City Beach rally in the evening, Trump did bash Democrats and the media but avoided specifically commenting on the actions taken during the day by the congressional committees. They want to do investigations, instead of investments, Trump told the enthusiastic crowd. I think it drives us right on to victory in 2020. More than 20 Democrats are vying in the partys primary for the chance to unseat Trump in next years presidential election. The president, during the rally, briefly mentioned several of the contenders from the opposition party. He said a former Texas congressman, Beto ORourke, is sinking like a rock. The Democratic front-runner, former Vice President Joe Biden, is sleepy. Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders, running in his second consecutive presidential primary race, is crazy. And of Pete Buttigieg, the 37-year-old mayor of South Bend, in the state of Indiana, Trump said sarcastically: Hell be great representing us against President Xi (Jinping) of China. Trump said he wished next years Election Day would hurry up and arrive. And in what he acknowledged was intended as a deliberate provocation of the media, Trump riffed about staying in office not six more years, but up to 14 more years. Therell be headlines tomorrow, he predicted: Donald Trump Wants to Break Constitution. Donald Trump on Wednesday suggested South Korea was rich as hell and probably doesnt like us too much, firing the latest shot in a dispute over how to share the cost of the U.S. troop presence here. Trump did not specifically name South Korea in his comments during a political rally in Florida. But the figures Trump cited match his previous complaints about Seoul, and analysts said there is little doubt who Trump was referencing. I won't say the country, but one country we spend a lot of money on defending [in] very dangerous territory and it costs us $5 billion, Trump said. After complaining that the country in question only contributed around $500 million of that figure, Trump said: We lose four and a half billion dollars to defend a country that's rich as hell and probably doesn't like us too much. Trump also said he told my people [to] call them and ask for the rest of it and theyll pay. Theyll pay. For decades Trump has criticized U.S. allies including South Korea, Japan, and various NATO countries for not paying enough of the cost of U.S. troops on their soil. But Trumps Wednesday comment was directed specifically at South Korea, says David Maxwell, a retired U.S. Army Special Forces colonel who is now at the Foundation for the Defense of Democracies. It is a hopeful indicator that he did not name Korea and is just using this as campaign rhetoric, added Maxwell. Cost-sharing dispute Trumps comment could complicate the contentious cost-sharing negotiations between Washington and Seoul that were only temporarily addressed in February with a one-year deal that replaced the previous five-year agreement. South Koreas Foreign Ministry did not respond to a VOA request for comment. In the past, South Korean officials have expressed confusion about Trumps inaccurate statements on the cost-sharing dispute. South Korea agreed in February to pay $925 million to support the U.S. military presence next year. That represents an 8 percent increase from the previous year much less than the 50 percent spike Trump had demanded. But days later, Trump claimed he had convinced South Korea to double its share. Trump says $5 billion is needed annually to pay for U.S. troops and bases in South Korea. Most estimates put that figure closer to $2 billion. In February, Trump incorrectly said 40,000 U.S. troops are in South Korea. The Pentagon says roughly 28,000 troops are in South Korea to help deter North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. Trump on alliances According to a 2018 Gallup poll, 80 percent of South Koreans have a favorable view of the United States. In contrast, just 44 percent of South Koreans have confidence in Trump, the poll found. During his 2016 presidential campaign, Trump repeatedly questioned the value of U.S. alliances with countries including South Korea, saying they should pay their fair share of the costs of U.S. troop deployments. South Korea rejects Trumps notion it doesnt contribute enough toward the cost of the U.S. troops, insisting it pays almost half of the total cost of $2 billion. That doesnt include the expense of rent-free land for U.S. military bases, Seoul says. In 2017, South Korea spent 2.6 percent of its gross domestic product on military expenditures, according to World Bank data. That is a bigger percentage than any NATO member, except for the United States. South Korea also paid for over 90 percent of the cost to build Camp Humphreys, the largest U.S. overseas military base, just 65 kilometers south of Seoul, according to U.S. officials. A U.S. official on Wednesday said the nation would "lose control" of its border with Mexico unless a massive and protracted surge of undocumented immigrants and asylum-seekers, primarily from Central America, is contained and reversed. U.S. Border Patrol Chief Carla Provost issued the warning to a Senate panel while announcing an eye-popping number of migrant apprehensions: 460,294 so far in the current fiscal year, which began in October. That figure exceeds the yearly total recorded by Border Patrol in more than a decade. Provost noted that, unlike in previous major migration periods, children, unaccompanied minors and family units constitute a substantial proportion of those reaching the U.S.-Mexico border, placing huge and unprecedented burdens on federal agencies. "I could never have envisioned that, today, agents would spend at least 40% of their time as child care providers, medical caregivers, bus drivers and food service workers," Provost told the Senate Judiciary subcommittee on border security and immigration. "Every agent that I pull off the line to process and care for families and children increases the risk that illegal border crossers will get past us, including those smuggling drugs and other contraband." Border security 'at risk' She added, "Simply put, we have been forced to put our border security and our national security at risk" and that, unless migration is deterred, "we will lose control of the border." Provost's warning was echoed by the subcommittee's chairman, Republican Sen. John Cornyn of Texas. "This is an emergency situation," Cornyn said. "This problem will only continue to grow without our intervention." Cornyn urged congressional passage of the Helping Unaccompanied Minors and Alleviating National Emergency (HUMANE) Act, which he introduced with Democratic Rep. Henry Cuellar of Texas. The bill seeks to improve care for children and families intercepted at the border, streamline and expedite the processing of migrants, boost border resources and modernize America's ports of entry. "I urge my colleagues to work with us to try to solve this problem. We need to quit looking at this through a political lens," Cornyn said. Democrats on the panel argued it is President Donald Trump who has used immigration as a political weapon. They accused the Trump administration of making a difficult situation worse through a series of decisions, from implementing a "zero tolerance" policy for undocumented immigrants to separating migrant children from their parents to cutting off U.S. aid to Central America. "Let's not forget that, earlier this year, the president forced the longest government shutdown in history in an effort to get Congress to pay for a [border] wall that Mexico was supposed to build," Illinois Democratic Sen. Dick Durbin said. "The Trump shutdown paralyzed immigration courts and added to the backlog of cases." Durbin added, "The reality is, the Trump administration's policies have made our borders less secure, and many times undermined our American values. When the president threatens to shut down the border, it's like a neon sign that smugglers and others use to encourage desperate families to flee [to the United States] as quickly as possible." Funding and resources Lawmakers of both parties have said they recognize the need for additional funding and resources for U.S. Customs and Border Patrol, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and the Department of Health and Human Services, which cares for unaccompanied migrant children. Beyond funding, Department of Homeland Security officials urged Congress to revamp U.S. immigration laws to speed the repatriation of migrants whose asylum claims are denied. DHS Acting Executive Associate Director Nathalie Asher argued that current laws are "creating an enormous pull factor" that attracts more migrants. "ICE must have the necessary authorities to ensure the safe, successful repatriation of persons who have had their day in court and been ordered removed in accordance with our immigration laws," Asher said. "Without the necessary funding and legislative changes, the integrity of our immigration system will continue to be undermined." Congress last attempted a major overhaul of U.S. immigration laws in 2013, when a major reform bill was approved by the then-Democrat-controlled Senate. The then-Republican-led House of Representatives never took up the legislation, and it failed to pass Congress. Provost argued that Washington's inaction on immigration reform is well understood beyond America's borders, adding that smugglers are "banking" on it. This article originated in VOAs Persian service. Farhad Pouladi contributed from Washington. New U.S. sanctions targeting Iranian industrial metals will hit two of the country's most lucrative non-energy exports, according to Iranian government data seen by VOA Persian. President Donald Trump signed an executive order Wednesday, seeking to deny Iran revenue from its exports of iron, steel, aluminum and copper. The measure blocks the assets of people involved in producing those metals inside Iran. It also authorizes sanctions against foreign financial institutions that sell goods and services to Iran to help it produce or export those metals. An Iranian government trade report for the Persian year that ended March 20 shows iron, cast iron and steel were the nations fourth-biggest non-energy export, earning $3.8 billion. The report, published online by Irans Trade Promotion Organization, says iron, cast iron and steel accounted for 8% of Irans exports, excluding oil and gas, for the year. The $3.8 billion marked a 12% increase from the previous Persian year, the report also showed. The same report also showed copper and copper products were Irans 10th-biggest non-energy export in the last Persian year, drawing $699 million in revenue, a 217% increase from the year before. That revenue accounted for 1.6% of Irans non-energy exports for the year. Aluminum did not feature in the Iranian trade reports list of the top 10 non-energy exports for the last Persian year. Other nations 'on notice' In his statement, Trump said Iranian exports of industrial metals accounted for 10% of its export economy. Todays action puts other nations on notice that allowing Iranian steel and other metals into your ports will no longer be tolerated, he said. Washington has widened sanctions against Iran repeatedly over the past year, calling it part of a campaign to impose maximum pressure on Tehran to change perceived malign behavior. Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Sayyed Abbas Mousavi denounced the new U.S. sanctions, in remarks published by state media Thursday. "This measure of the United States is in violation of international obligations and it will be [held] responsible," Mousavi said. Iran has vowed to defy U.S. sanctions and rely on its own resources to sustain its economy. Behnam Ben Taleblu, an Iran analyst at the Washington-based Foundation for Defense of Democracies (FDD), said Iran's industrial metals industry is one of several that U.S. officials can sanction in order to dry up revenues of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, the most powerful Iranian military branch, which Trump designated as a terrorist organization last month. "Petrochemicals, in my view, is one [such industry], while metallurgy is another that contributes to Iran's [ballistic] missile efforts," Taleblu told VOA Persian at an FDD event Wednesday. In a Thursday interview with VOA Persian, Patrick Clawson, research director for the Washington Institute for Near East Policy, said the new U.S. sanctions also would hurt Iran's labor market. "They hit [economic] sectors that employ quite a few people in Iran and [that make] products used in metal industries such as the automobile industry," Clawson said. "So there are quite a few workers who could lose their jobs as a result of difficulties in these industries." Iron New York-based investment bank Jefferies said Iran's exports of iron ore were likely to collapse. "We had expected Iranian exports to increase to 20 million tonnes this year as a result of supply issues [at a Brazilian iron ore mine operated by Vale SA]," Jefferies said in a Thursday note sent to news outlets. "Now, Iranian iron ore exports are likely to approach zero for as long as these sanctions last." A Thursday report by Britain's Financial Times said the U.S. sanctions were likely to "further tighten" global supplies of iron ore, a key steelmaking ingredient, and drive its price up to $100 a tonne for the first time since May 2014. It said the commodity was currently trading at $95 a tonne. In another report published Thursday, London-based commodity markets news service Argus said Iran exports 96% of its iron ore output, sending the vast majority of it, 94%, to China. It said another 2% of Iran's iron ore output is exported to India, Turkey, Egypt and Gulf Co-operation Council member states. Steel A U.S. Commerce Department report published in March said Iran exported 9.24 million tons of steel in 2018, a 24% increase by volume from the year before. It said Iran was the world's 18th-largest steel exporter in 2017, selling the metal to 120 countries and territories. The Associated Press, in a Thursday report from Tehran, said Iran has dozens of mainly government-owned steel mills that employ about 50,000 workers. It said those mills have an annual output of 25 million tonnes of steel, with less than one-third of it being used for the domestic market to produce consumer goods and provide parts for offshore oil rigs, military vehicles and car manufacturing plants. Copper U.S. news agency Bloomberg published a Wednesday report citing Bloomberg Intelligence analyst Andrew Cosgrove as saying Iran's copper exports in 2018 amounted to 138,000 tonnes. Aluminum Texas-based research company Harbor Aluminum, in an email to VOA Persian, said Irans main customers for aluminum exports from 2013 to 2018 were Turkey, India, Taiwan, South Korea and China. It said the volume of Irans aluminum exports had fluctuated between 100,000 to 200,000 tonnes a year. European and Latin American countries that support Venezuela's opposition condemned on Thursday the arrest of a top lawmaker as the government of President Nicolas Maduro intensified pressure on adversaries who called in vain for a military uprising last week. The arrest of Edgar Zambrano, vice president of the opposition-controlled National Assembly in Venezuela, appeared to be part of a carefully calibrated crackdown on the opposition, whose leader, Juan Guaido, says Maduro's government is weak and fractured. The United States, which has imposed sanctions in Venezuela's oil industry, has warned of severe repercussions if Maduro moves against the man he has described as a collaborator in a U.S.-engineered coup plot. Guaido alleges that the government is chipping away at the National Assembly, the key Venezuelan institution calling for change in a country whose economic problems are so chronic that several million Venezuelans have left the country in recent years. Venezuela's top court announced investigations of Zambrano and nine other members of the National Assembly for alleged roles in supporting Guaido's failed appeal for a military uprising on April 30. Late Wednesday, Zambrano was detained by members of Venezuela's intelligence agency. The Lima Group, which includes a dozen Latin American countries and Canada, said his arrest was unconstitutional because his parliamentary immunity was illegally lifted. Germany also called for the release of the No. 2 leader of the Venezuelan congress, a conciliatory figure within the opposition who became Guaido's deputy in a power-sharing arrangement among the biggest parties. Diosdado Cabello, a leading political ally of Maduro, suggested that the government is taking a methodical approach in its struggle with the opposition. We're not in a rush, Cabello said. Some National Assembly members, meanwhile, have sought refuge in diplomatic missions, echoing moves made by 1970s-era dissidents scrambling for protection under the flags of other countries during the previous era of Latin American dictatorships, including in Chile and Argentina. Richard Blanco, another National Assembly member facing possible arrest, told VPItv, a local media outlet, that he had gone to the Argentine embassy in Caracas. Still another, Mariela Magallanes, is staying at the home of the Italian ambassador in the Venezuelan capital. Opposition activist Leopoldo Lopez entered the home of the Spanish ambassador last week, after he joined Guaido in the failed attempt to get the military to topple Maduro. Lopez was detained for leading anti-government protests in 2014 and had been under house arrest for two years before he was freed. Maduro has not tried to arrest Guaido, who declared himself interim president of Venezuela in January. The United States says Russia-backed Maduro was elected illegitimately last year and that Guaido should be allowed to lead Venezuelans to free elections after years of turmoil. Maduro says he champions the socialist principles of his predecessor, Hugo Chavez. Despite intense international pressure, Maduro has secured the support of the bulk of Venezuela's military and managed to maintain his grip on power. Russia on May 9 marked one of its most important holidays, Victory Day over Nazi Germany in World War II. The Soviet Union - which included Russia - suffered the biggest losses with 26 million Soviet citizens killed in the conflict. At V-Day commemorations, victims are honored and the military presents a display meant show enemies its strength. Many also recall the time Russia and the United States fought on the same side against a common enemy. In Moscow, VOA's Igor Tsikhanenka caught up with one Soviet World War II veteran who recalls that time very well. U.S. President Donald Trump said Thursday that he was "very surprised" that the Republican-led Senate Intelligence Committee subpoenaed his oldest son, Donald Trump Jr., for more testimony linked to the panel's investigation of Russian meddling in the 2016 U.S. presidential election. "My son's a very good person," Trump told reporters at the White House, saying that special counsel Robert Mueller's investigation had "totally exonerated" him. The U.S. leader said his son had already testified for "nearly 20 hours." It was not immediately clear whether Trump Jr. would comply with the subpoena, even though it was issued by the Republican-controlled congressional panel. Mueller's investigation did not establish that Trump's campaign cooperated with Russia to sway the election, but it took no position on whether the president obstructed justice as the probe proceeded. Attorney General William Barr and Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein later decided criminal charges were not warranted. Trump said, "Bob Mueller's no friend of mine," alleging his team of prosecutors was composed of "17 or 18 very angry Democrats who hated Donald Trump." However, in his first extensive remarks on Mueller's report, the president said, "The report comes back. It's perfect. It's beautiful. There's no collusion. Nobody even talks about the illusion." "You know, I haven't heard the word 'Russia' in a long time," Trump said. "There's no more talk about Russia. What happened to Russia? The Russian witch hunt, they don't talk, because it was so on collusion, which by the way, is by far, that's the big deal because it was all about Russia. ... So, there's no crime, that never was a crime, was a hoax. It was a witch hunt." 'Bad form' Acting White House Chief of Staff Mick Mulvaney said it was "bad form" for the committee to subpoena Trump Jr. without telling the White House ahead of time. Trump and his administration are battling with opposition Democratic lawmakers in the House of Representatives for testimony and documents on an array of fronts, but the Senate panel's Wednesday subpoena of Trump Jr. was a surprise. It was the first known subpoena of a member of the president's immediate family, although the younger Trump and Trump son-in-law Jared Kushner, a White House adviser, have voluntarily testified before congressional panels. The younger Trump was summoned to answer more questions about his 2017 testimony to the Senate panel as part of its probe into the election meddling by Russia. The committee's interest in talking to Trump Jr. was renewed after the president's former attorney, Michael Cohen, told a House committee in February that he had briefed Trump Jr. about 10 times on a plan to build a Trump Tower in Moscow. The younger Trump told the Senate Judiciary Committee in 2017 he was only "peripherally aware'' of the proposal. Cohen started a three-year prison term this week, partly related to his guilty plea that he'd lied to Congress about then-candidate Trump's termination of his pursuit of the Moscow project in 2016. Cohen made his false statement so that his testimony would match Trump's claim to voters in the early stages of the presidential race that he was no longer pursuing the Russian venture. Mulvaney, in an interview with CBS News, downplayed the significance of the subpoena for the younger Trump since he does not work in the White House. Trump Jr. and his brother Eric are overseeing the president's Trump Organization business empire while Trump is in office. "That being said," Mulvaney said, "the fact that the president's son got a subpoena from a Republican-led committee ... and not at least get a heads-up, I thought was let's say, bad form." The Senate Intelligence Committee has been investigating Russian election interference and Trump's ties to Russia for the last two years. The Trump Jr. subpoena was a new sign that the Senate panel is continuing with its own Russia investigation even after the release last month of a redacted version of the special counsel's 448-page report. The Democratic-controlled House Judiciary Committee on Wednesday overrode Republican opposition to hold Attorney General William Barr in contempt of Congress for his refusal to turn over Mueller's unredacted report. The president has vowed that he will fight all subpoenas from Democratic-controlled committees trying to investigate him and his administration. Jordan Klepper on Klepper. Photo: Comedy Central Jordan Klepper has had quite the evolution on Comedy Central over the past five years. Not long after joining The Daily Show as a correspondent in 2014, Klepper became a late-night favorite for his field pieces getting to know Donald Trump supporters in the lead-up to the 2016 election. His popularity on The Daily Show ultimately led to him hosting his own show at Comedy Central, The Opposition, in which he took his right-wing Daily Show character to Infowars-inspired extremes. And no, Alex Jones himself was decidedly not a fan of the show, having referred to Klepper (or as he called him, Keppler) as a classic psychopath, failed actor, turd blossom, and diarrhea coming out of a wart-infested butt. The Oppositions run on Comedy Central was a short one, but thankfully the turd blossom has returned. Kleppers new eponymous series, which debuts tonight, sees the comedian shedding his previous characters in order to depict serious issues as authentically as possible, covering everything from veterans using wrestling to cope with PTSD to pipeline protesters in Louisiana to undocumented immigrants fighting for their right to education. (That last topic resulted in Klepper getting his very own mug shot and TMZ article.) Ahead of tonights premiere of the eight-part series, we spoke with Klepper about his approach to the new show, balancing comedy with serious topics, and how he learned to amplify issues other people care about without doing something The Oppositions Jordan Klepper did well: making it all about him. So, Klepper is a big departure from your last show. Whats it like not being behind a desk and not being in a suit for a change? Its dangerous, is what I found out. It turns out I was in a very controlled environment where the air-conditioning was lovely, the lighting angles were correct, the audience was told to laugh and was always good. Thats not the case in Killeen, Texas, as we quickly found out. Yeah. But honestly, its been great. At the beginnings of it, we were excited to get out into the field and start to develop what a field show was, and it sort of took on a life of its own. We really found ourselves inspired by a lot of the groups that I ended up embedding with not always points of view that I agree with, but a lot of people who are fighting and trying to see some sort of change. I would say it was refreshing and good for the soul to see people up close, fighting, less connected to the chaos at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, and more connected to getting something done right where they are. So Ive been fortunate enough to get to see it up close, and I liked that. It was good. It was what I needed. The new show covers a pretty interesting variety of topics. How did you and your team land on what the topics would be for each episode? The show kind of evolved as we started going out, booking things, and bringing stuff back, and we started to see the story tell itself. Its sort of a luxury you have when youre doing something that feels more like a documentary and less like a Daily Show piece where you go out practically knowing the story youre going to tell because of preinterviews and because youre tied to a five-minute [segment]. So with this one, you go out with an assumption of what a story is, but you spend more time, and they tell you what the story is. Initially we kind of thought the show was going to be about tribalism that was our initial theme for this season. It felt like if Im coming from a fractured world that is split into two sides, we kind of thought, Lets start seeing how people define themselves in the tribes that they find themselves in. So we started picking stories based on big-issue topics and different tribes that people identify with, but after we started going out, we realized that was sort of a false premise, and people were less defining themselves through the groups they were in and more defining themselves by the causes that they cared about and the actions that they took. As we looked at stories, we had big issues we wanted to approach, but it really came down to, like, when we found an issue, we would scour for different stories within that issue. And it had to check a bunch of different boxes one of which, an issue that we cared about; one of which, an issue that we felt we could comment and bring something to; and also we wanted to be a part of it. We wanted to experience something, and not it just be a retelling. Could I get in the boat? Could I be under the table thats collapsing? Could I help the congresswoman pack and get to D.C.? It was important for us to be there while something was happening as opposed to just being there when the retelling was. So that kind of started to dictate the types of stories that we invested in. Was there one story in particular that evolved in a way that surprised you? For sure. I would say the one that was in the bayou with the pipeline protesters definitely evolved for us. We were doing our research beforehand and communicating with them, and some of the information was sparse because they are secretive, so they were only giving us some info and kind of wanted to vet us by the time that we got down there. Some of the info that we had coming into that was about this wayward state protest, which is they often not only go to the pipeline, but sometimes they put on performances at the pipeline as a way to distract the workers there. So as we went out the door, in a more traditional Daily Show kind of way, we felt like, I bet we go down there; we spend time with them. If were looking for a way to wrap this episode up, well do a big bit thats more of a theatrical performance thats kind of heightening the performance theyre already doing. They do a thing called Crawfish the Musical, and well go back and well do a big choreographed version for them. That will be a nice way to wrap it up. You know, like that was kind of a Daily Show mentality, and even an Opposition mentality of, You go down there with the assumption of what the story is, and you find a comedic way to end it. We went down there, and it was a very different situation than what we thought. It was more tense, you know? It was complicated. There were some really interesting protesters there who felt like they were there for the right reasons; there were some that were there for perhaps more dubious reasons. And the planning for the protest in and of itself was at times right on the mark, and other times felt like it left things open for potential failure. It became a story about a protest action that completely failed, and I think as we came back, we were like, That is a story. Like, our instinct in the first month or two of doing these episodes was, We still have to do something big and comedic out there, but as we started to come back and look at the footage and talk about the experiences, it was not about us bringing weird comedy to it. Like, Oh, this is a story about imperfect protest and people who are trying to make a change, and its hard and you fail, and sometimes you sink in a bayou. And its actually more complicated because when you sink in the bayou, youre also surrounded by people who work in the oil industry, and theyre not so sure that these people from the outside should be here doing that. There was a gray area, and when we started to put it back together, the best of these episodes are the ones that look completely different than the beat sheets we had when we came on out expecting to tell a different story. When we talked at the end of The Opposition, you said you werent going to play the alt-right asshole anymore. You said, I want to bring the true asshole thats inside of me to the real world. Yeah, that sounds about right! So what was it like bringing that asshole out? I do believe that comes through in the show. And I hope you take that as a compliment. I appreciate that. Thats a very kind thing for you to say. It was great! That asshole doesnt like camping. That asshole is grumpy. That asshole is a little upset that hes at yet another La Quinta inn when he could be back in New York. I think what we learned is, we figured out a way to weaponize that asshole and tell his story just a bit. Again, this was a fun learning process, but very quickly it became a series that was about people who are trying to enact change, and the reality is, change is tough. We talk about getting sunk in the bayou, we talk about some of those more uncomfortable things, and I think you want to see me earnestly grumpy or frustrated or a little bit cynical, and I think that is authentically what I am in those situations. It doesnt mean that I dont care. It doesnt mean that I dont want to be there and be a part of some of those things, or at least applauding some of the actions that are there. But I think through that grumpiness and perhaps that POV, I hope that highlights a little bit of how tough it is for some of these people to be doing the things that they do. How do you balance comedy when youre covering such serious topics and getting to know people whose stories are, on the surface at least, really not funny at all? One hundred percent. We kept talking about, All right, I want it to be authentic. If were doing a show right now, Ive done a show at The Daily Show where you are ironically detached, and you use that as a weapon to tell a story. And then at The Opposition, Im going to be this blip of a character whos satirizing by being the bad guy. But what if we strip those tools away? And to be quite honest, it was scary. Like, I know how to wield some of that, but when you go out, just trying to tell something thats more authentic, its much more of a struggle. But when I went down, one of the first things we filmed was the story about deported veterans. We spent five days traveling the country with Manuel and then going to Tijuana to the bunker where all the deported veterans meet up who cant get back to see their families. Some have been down there for decades and they cant go back across [the border] and see their families. You walk into that room, and theres not a place in that room for some ironic quip about how silly this place is or what have you. And it was it was an awakening. Like, Oh, my job right here is to listen, not to be a dick in this room. Which is a big challenge when you come back and youre like, But were making a show about these topics for Comedy Central! But I think that was a good challenge for us. I think people want to feel what this experience feels like they want to see stories of people who are inspiring or at least trying. I think I can be if Im being honest Im gonna be a guy whos ill-equipped for some of these stories or actions, and hopefully theres humor in that. Hopefully an audience can be more compelled by that story and find the humor in authentic foibles as opposed to just dickish hyperbole. Right. As we came back and started to build these things, there was a point where it was like, I wonder if we need to add more classic, like, one-liner-y things? Or, you know, maybe one of these shows that go into the world will add a device where now were back on a stand-up stage commenting on it or some place from afar looking back and adding commentary. Because if you are telling real stories about people who are suffering, its hard to find those jokes in that space and there might not be room for those jokes in that space. We filmed some stuff and we tried it. It injected quips, but it took away from story. So our bet on this was, Lets stick to really telling these peoples stories, live in the field entirely, and hopefully find some of the human humor throughout it. But it was a consistent conversation. Its one we continue to have, even in the edit, of ways in which to frame this where you can hopefully see the humor and the fun in these stories, but not give away some of these characters we want you to live with. It also feels like a natural progression from when you were on The Daily Show. Which makes me wonder: You became pretty well-known for your Daily Show segments where you went out talking to Trump supporters at rallies leading up to the election. Those segments were pretty huge at the time, especially for the kinds of quotes you got some of the Trump supporters to say on camera. Can you even do that kind of comedy nowadays? It feels like that scene is definitely not new or fresh anymore. Well, right? We talked a lot about this. Like, yeah, the Trump rallies of a couple years ago, the surprise at somebody saying something like that, that doesnt exist. There was a discussion: Oh, theres gotcha comedy that is out there of like, Can you believe we said this to this person or this person said that one dumb thing? Definitely in doing some of those Trump videos, I know at the time what was shocking was revealing some of the things that were happening at these rallies. But it felt like it was progressives also cheering on seeing this stupidity that they secretly hoped or thought existed out in this world. Yeah. Lets fast-forward a few years later. Having done a bunch of that, you know, I think quite honestly we were tired of it, and it didnt feel like it was refreshing or new. It felt like it was this adrenaline rush of hyperbole at times that was maybe not as compelling anymore. So what felt like our challenge was, I know Ive been going out there, and Ive been the guy who can be pretty abrupt in small situations. Can I take that? Can we kind of read the room for what 2019 looks like? I think people want less of that and they want a little more reality there. So its been a weird four years. Like you said, weve got to check in all the way throughout it, but its sort of this strange evolution from, you know, distanced irony all the way down to naked authenticity. Right. Which, you know, in this fucking climate? Who knew? [Laughs.] Exactly. Who knew it would just strip all down? So, the last thing I wanted to bring up is your arrest, which Im sure youve been asked about a lot. Had you been arrested before? That was my first time. Wow. Yeah, it was a very unique experience. In doing this show, we were following a lot of movements and people who were taking action, and we were careful not to, like, make this the activists show, where Im going to go there and Im going to be the person whos fighting on your side. I want to be up close and see what youre doing, but its your story. Ill be the person whos next to it. Its more important to show the people who are there in the trenches. But this kind of organically came up. I was really inspired by these students [and] the story that they told. Their desire to have an education was so pure compared to my experience in high school just assuming that I could have some of the pathways to college that these students did not have. They also had such a clear plan of the way in which they use the history of the civil -rights movement and of activism to gain attention. And I will say, even up until that moment, I had fears of like, Is this the right thing to do? I want to say I amplified these students voices. I think that does feel right. In fact, throughout this series, people would continue to tell me the phrase weaponize your privilege was thrown about quite a bit. Yeah. But there was a message from on high even that moment where Im worried about if this is the right or wrong thing to do, it turns out one of the pastors who also got arrested with me, whom I spent 12 hours in jail with, was a pastor who served as my grandmothers pastor a decade earlier in Kalamazoo, Michigan. Oh wow. And I had actually been brought in to meet him by my grandmother because she wanted me to meet this pious man whom she looked up to, who she thought was such a good man of faith. Flash-forward ten years later, hes bounced around to a couple different churches across the country, and hes there in jail doing the exact same thing. So I feel like I got a little bit of a I got a thumbs-up from my grandma ten years early about taking an action like that and not feeling guilty for perhaps stepping on the other side of the law. Photo: Comedy Central And of course the mug shots a really good promo picture for the show. Lets be honest. You know, this is where Comedy Central is just so goddamned cheap. Theyre like, First of all, you know, get em arrested, they get attention, and now, boy, if we could just use this free photo and not have to do another photo shoot. We dont have to pay for makeup or wardrobe or anything. Well just throw it on a subway ad! Let me tell ya. This interview has been edited and condensed. The Heart of Texas Farmers Market will be open starting Saturday in the Westview Shopping Center in front of Michaels at the corner of Waco and Valley Mills drives. The markets hours are 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesdays and Saturdays. The market is looking for vendors. For more information, call 747-4403. Stamp Out Hunger Letter carriers will be collecting bags filled with nonperishable items for Stamp Out Hunger, a one-day food drive led by the National Association of Letter Carriers and supported by the U.S. Postal Service. All food collected locally will be donated to the Central Texas Food Bank. Bags placed in mailboxes this week can be filled with healthy, nonperishable food and placed next to mailboxes Saturday for pickup during regular mail delivery. Anyone who does not receive a bag for the drive can leave donations at their mailbox in any sturdy paper or plastic bag or a reusable bag. Jack Harwell told the commission that they have a new system that will identify jailers that are doing their checking, Felton said. They have new technology to help make sure the staff is in compliance with bed check rules and those things. Warden Richard Alford did not respond to an email requesting comment for this story. County officials stepped up deliberations on taking over operation of the Harwell jail last year after the countys contract with LaSalle increased from about $6 million per year to about $8 million per year. McLennan County uses Harwell for overflow from McLennan County Jail. Harwell also houses federal inmates and inmates form other counties in the region. The McLennan County Sheriffs Office, which runs the McLennan County Jail, presented estimates to county commissioners in September showing the county could save $1 million per year by ending its contract with LaSalle and running Harwell itself. But Scicluna said it obviously covered lay people as well. The pope mandated that victims reporting abuse must be welcomed, listened to and supported by the hierarchy, as well as offered spiritual, medical and psychological assistance. The law says victims can't be forced to keep quiet, even though the investigation itself is still conducted under pontifical secret. And in a novelty, the law requires that if victims request it, they must be informed of the outcome of the investigation again a response to longstanding complaints that victims are kept in the dark about how their claims were handled. Victims and their advocates have long complained that bishops and religious superiors have escaped justice for having engaged in sexual misconduct themselves, or failed to protect their flocks from predator priests. Bishops and religious superiors are accountable only to the pope, and only a handful have ever been sanctioned or removed for sex abuse or cover-up, and usually only after particularly egregious misbehavior became public. Marty Kinard Aug. 23, 1954 - May 7, 2019 Dr. Marty Jean Watkins Kinard, daughter of Arty and Jean Watkins, wife of Larry Kinard, mother to Matt and Erin, mother in law to Sarah and Lyle, sister to Jerry and Luan and grandmother to Noah, Lily, Emma, Lucy, Layla and Liza, passed away on May 7, 2019. Marty was born in Clovis New Mexico on August 23, 1954. She grew up in Dalhart, TX where she had a life long love affair with west Texas. She graduated from Dalhart High School and attended Texas Tech University where she received her MS degree in Speech Pathology and Audiology. Marty met her husband of 42 years at Texas Tech in 1974. They married in Dalhart in 1976 and lived in Paris TX, where Matt was born, Muenster TX, where Erin was born, Hillsboro and finally Waco. Marty began her career working the Abernathy, North Lamar and Marietta school districts providing speech therapy services. In 1991, she returned to school at Baylor university, earning her doctorate in educational psychology and then continued her career at the Family Practice Center specializing in family practice faculty development where she worked with academic physicians and interns improving their teaching skills. My family has been in the bicycle business since 1907, when my grandfather opened a shop on New Yorks Lower East Side. That tradition continued in 1950 when my father started our company as a bicycles and accessories wholesaler. Today, we are one of the largest suppliers of imported and American-made bicycles in the country. Over the generations, weve weathered all kinds of turns in the industry. But weve never dealt with anything like this: heavy tariffs on key commodities, announced with barely any notice, by a president who may or may not be bluffing. Though the bulk of my business comes from imported bikes, I also own and operate a bicycle assembly factory in Manning, South Carolina, which produces one of our lines, BCA Bikes. When we opened our doors in 2014, initially hiring 47 employees, we were bucking the overall trend in our industry: More than 95 percent of all bicycles sold in the United States are manufactured in China. With labor costs there rising, and high employee turnover, we decided to make an investment in our long-term growth. Today, our Manning factory is responsible for more than 50 percent of the 625,000 bicycles produced in the United States each year. Before President Trumps trade war, we had plans to grow even further. President Trump has launched a new attack in his trade war with China, which earned a big thumbs-down from financial markets. Is it possible, though, that his bluster will produce a good long-run deal to offset short-run costs? Lets hope so, but its unclear whether negotiations between Washington and Beijing will produce a satisfactory result. And that means the president may unilaterally impose a 25 percent tax on $200 billion of Chinese goods, which actually means higher taxes on American consumers, retailers, manufacturers, exporters and farmers. And when China retaliates, brace yourself for even more damage. Given the risks, we all have a stake in the outcome of these trade negotiations. So here are five things to understand as discussions continue, beginning with a couple of observations about the balance of trade. Skamokawa News NICE OUT--As the work week began, we were enjoying the blue skies and sunshine after some morning fog. While the moisture was a bit heavy, it's the sort of combo of damp and sunny that seemingly makes the grass grow right before our eyes! Monday was quite warm and even broke some records for the date, so all your new plants definitely needed a drink. With a warm stretch possible, I certainly hope everyone is vigilant and reports anyone who appears to have somehow forgotten a child or an animal in their car! SPECIAL DAYS--Those celebrating birthdays from May 9-15 are Ashleigh Montgomery, Rosalie Webb, Christeena Bassi, Kerrie McNally, Bryce McClain, Trevor Gorley, Josh Phelps, Katharine E. Parker, Steve Rabelos, Sawyer Peek, Ashlenn Coleman, Ryan Lorenzo, Evan Quigley, Leeann Grasseth, Angela Dickson, Vicki Bergseng, Bobbi Peek, Erica Nepsund, Molly Hanigan, Shelly Hedges, Stephanie Cochran Prestegard, Stacey Wegdahl, Steve Doumit, Patty Ingersol, Kaelee Paulsen, Priscilla Gray, Sage Miller, Jayden LaRouche, David Rust, Ashley Jorgensen, Parker Rusk, Mercedes Pedersen, Leslie Monroe and my eldest son, Pete Sechler, who was born on Mother's Day and once again, celebrates his birthday on that day as well! Those celebrating anniversaries this coming week are Frank and Carolyn Pedersen, Jon and Brenda Peterson and John and Sharon Buennagel. May you all have wonderful anniversary celebrations this week. THIS FRIDAY--The free movie and popcorn night will take place Friday, May 10, at 7 p.m., at the Community Center in Cathlamet. It is an NR movie, listed for everyone, but we all know that the little ones wouldn't be into those classic thriller type movies. As always, you can bring in your own treats and can order pizza from the local pizza place to have it delivered to the center prior to the movie. Call 360-795-3311 if you're interested. SATURDAY EVENTS--It looks to be a nice day on Saturday, May 11, so it will be a great time to head to the Youth Building at the Wahkiakum Co. Fairgrounds and check out all the good deals at their monthly Flea Market, which starts at 9 a.m., and ends at 3 p.m. This market has used items, but they also have many talented vendors trying to sell their crafts, so depending on who's signed up that day, there can be items from jewelry to painting to woodwork and more. They hope to see you at the fairgrounds this Saturday, and although the mornings can be chilly, the Youth Building is heated, so you'll be warm and cozy while you shop! Saturday will be the night for all bingo lovers to head to the Norse Hall on Puget Island. The Sons of Norway lodge members will have the doors open at 5:30 and games begin at 6 p.m. Cards are $5 each and cash prizes are awarded. Good luck! SUNDAY--I hope you remembered that this Sunday is Mother's Day and that you've made some sort of plans to celebrate with that special lady in your life. Happy Mother's Day! Be sure to check out our local restaurants for their dinner specials that day. NEXT SATURDAY--A couple of big events will take place next Saturday, May 18, as the 4-H White Tail Run is always a fun event for those who enjoy walking, jogging or running around the Julia Butler Hansen Refuge. If you haven't signed up yet, or you want to find out more about it, contact the Wah. Co. Extension office at 360-795-3278. Also that day, all horse lovers will be at the Wah. Co. Fairgrounds for the Silver Buckle Series. Contact the fair at 360-795-3480 and leave a message for Patty Dursteler if you need more info. NICE WRITE UP--Congratulations to Don and Kitty Speranza, as their place in Skamokawa, "The Inn at Crippen Creek Farm" was one of seven farms featured in the AAA Via Magazine recently. This story featured country inns that are also working farms. It also offers hands-on experiences with the farming culture if you so desire. If you haven't been to the ICCF, you may want to check out their website and find out when their dinners are taking place, or one of their bread making classes are available, etc., and check it all out first hand. GOOD NEWS--Awhile back, over 60 concerned Skamokawa residents gathered at the Roadkill Saloon during a Neighborhood Watch meeting, to express their frustration with some major thefts and other issues that had been going on around here. At that time, Sheriff Howie gave us all some great tips on how to make our homes and property less vulnerable to property thieves and to count on our neighbors to help watch out for suspicious traffic or people that don't live in the area. Recently, I was very happy to learn that since the Neighborhood Watch gathering, crimes in our area were way down, so banding together has really made a difference. Keep up the good work! NEW FOLKS--I have seen an increasing amount of people who have moved to our area, and we certainly want to welcome those of you who have come to Skamokawa. I hope you'll take part in the above mentioned "Neighborhood Watch" program and by introducing yourself to those around you, you'll get to know them and they can clue you in as to what each valley and each area around town, is doing to combat crime around here. This is truly a community effort and if you'll be living here, it's comforting to know that you've got a lot of good people looking out for you. If you want, you can always call me and I can fill you in. GREAT TIME--I got to leave the area for a bit this past week and headed off to Seattle. While I was there, I got to do a couple of firsts, as I went downtown along the waterfront and took a ride on the big ferris wheel down there. The view was great and since we did it in the evening, the skyline was really pretty with all the lit up buildings and of course, the Space Needle was looking mighty impressive. Right next to the ferris wheel is a virtual reality ride that has you soaring over the northwest like an eagle, and you dive down along the coastline and soar the white capped mountains and more, and while fairly short, the ride was really pretty awesome, so if you get a chance to go, I think you'd really enjoy it! I also got to have a nice visit with former Puget Islander, Bernice Tover Ellison, who although she is now in her 90's, is still zipping down the freeway and still selling Avon. What a gal! I have known one of her niece's, Amanda "Punky" Tover, all my life, but on that day, I also got to meet her other niece, Holly, who lives in Portland. After she spent the first half of the day visiting with her aunt, once I showed up, it was my turn to get in a couple hours of gab. As I was leaving, Bernice handed me some lefse from the Norwegian store nearby, but we agreed that "back in the day," her Mom was one of the best lefse makers on Puget Island! Of course, the main reason for heading to Seattle was because my only granddaughter was going to graduate from college and this was going to be one of the few times to be able see all four grandkids! This also meant that Pete and Katie Sechler were super busy as they prepared for this upcoming graduation ceremony of their only daughter, Tessa, at Washington State University and beings she had to fly up from So. California, where she is currently involved with the Special Olympics, it meant airport trips and rental car plans and house rentals and more, in preparation for the family to head to Pullman. A hearty congratulations to Tessa on her accomplishments thus far. Watch out world, here she comes! SON COMING UP--Just a heads up for a couple of things happening for the Sons of Norway Lodge on Puget Island. With a wedding being planned at the Norse Hall later this month, members are reminded that a cleaning party is being planned for May 18 at 10 a.m., and then they'll also be doing some baking for the wedding on May 20 at 10 a.m., so members will be plenty busy this month. Plus, next month, they will once again take part in the Puget Island Garage and Yard Sale, aka PIGYS, happening at the end of June, as they will serve pulled pork sandwiches on June 28 and 29. So, while you're having fun shopping around the Island at the sale, don't forget to get fueled back up by stopping at the Norse Hall and taking a bit of a breather and a lunch break! Meetings are always on the first Wednesday of the month at 7 p.m., so their next meeting will happen on June 5 and everyone is welcome to stop by and check them out. You don't even have to be a Norskie to join! SO MANY THINGS--I keep hearing from folks who are wanting to hold new things/events/dinners, etc., in our area, and while on one hand, that's great, on the other, it can be really challenging. If you are trying to host a new event in this area, I would suggest consulting the Wah. Chamber of Commerce Events Calendar prior to picking a date. Remember, there are only so many people around here and they can't be everywhere at once, so the date for new events needs to be thought about carefully and advertised well in advance (a year for big events) and smaller ones need months of advance notice and subsequent publicity, which means radio stations, other newspapers, posters, flyers and more. Trust me, there is no such thing as too much advertising! Lewis and Clark National Historical Park, Fort Clatsop has announced the next In Their Footsteps free speaker series event. Oregons Oldest Known Shipwreck: A Spanish Galleon of 1693 by Cameron La Follette, will be held on Sunday, May 19 at 1:00 p.m. It has long been known that a large ship, probably Spanish, wrecked on Nehalem Spit centuries ago. Recently an archaeological team (the Beeswax Wreck Project) determined it was most likely the Santo Cristo de Burgos, which left the Philippines in 1693 bound for Acapulco, and was never seen again. Cameron La Follette and her team of independent researchers then spearheaded research into Spanish, Philippine and Mexican archival sources that revealed for the first time information about Captain Iniguez del Bayo, the crew, the cargo, the ship, and the fabled Manila trade of which the Santo Cristo de Burgos was a part. This talk will summarize these fascinating archival findings, the Native traditions about the shipwreck, and the 150-year aftermath of treasure-hunting in the Neahkahnie area that the galleon wreck ignited. Cameron La Follette was the lead author on most of the articles in the Summer 2018 issue of Oregon Historical Quarterly, Oregons Manila Galleon. She is the Director of Oregon Coast Alliance, a coastal conservation organization. She is also lead author of Sustainability and the Rights of Nature: An Introduction, published in 2017 by CRC Press. A companion volume, Sustainability and the Rights of Nature in Practice, is forthcoming in 2019. In Their Footsteps is a monthly Sunday forum sponsored by the Lewis & Clark National Park Association and the park. These programs are held in the Netul River Room of Fort Clatsops visitor center and are free of charge. For more information, call the park at (503) 861-2471, check out http://www.nps.gov/lewi, or Lewis and Clark National Historical Park on Facebook. The guest speaker is Kathryn Graves of Haysville, Kan. She is a writer, speaker and pastors wife. Her presentation topic is The Princess Principle. Graves is also an image consultant and fashion trends expert who will show how to create a Capsule Wardrobe. Lunch will be catered by Good Friends Cafe of Wahoo. Using a common meter that can be purchased at a store and a series of wires into the ground, data is collected about the resistivity in the soil. Then, you interpret that and site where you should drill, Hanson said. If the interpretations are correct, the chances of a productive drill on the first try dramatically increase. At the workshop held in Ithaca two weeks ago, the goal was to build a resistivity unit, site a well and then hand dig it. Hanson said he volunteered to host the workshop because Global Hope Network needed room to try out the vertical electrical sounding and also the opportunity to hand drill a well. His 40 acres near Ithaca fit that need perfectly. The 12 workshop attendees came from many states and got hands on experience building and using the equipment. Josh Knight with Global Hope Network had built some units prior to the workshop. He was having trouble getting consistent readings, Hanson said. Image Credit: File Kolkata, May 9 (IBNS): Attacking West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for not considering him as the Prime Minister, Narendra Modi on Thursday said his political rival is proud to accept Pakistan's Prime Minister but not the one of her own country. "Didi is not ready to accept his own Prime Minister but she feels proud to accept the Pakistan Prime Minister," Modi said while addressing a rally in West Bengal's Bankura. Explaining her decision not to respond to Modi's phone calls over cyclone Fani, Banerjee, who heads the Trinamool Congress, had said: "I do not consider Narendra Modi as the Prime Minister. He is an expiry Prime Minister. I will talk to the new Prime Minister after May 23 (date of counting)." Addressing a crowd at Banerjee's citadel, Modi also responded to the Chief Minister's "slap" remark saying, "Didi's language reveals how much she is puzzled. She is speaking about stones and slaps. I am used to abuses but Didi is disrespecting the country's constitution." In an ugly political fight between the Trinamool and BJP in the eastern state, Banerjee, while responding to Modi's reference to Trinamool as an extortionist party, on Tuesday said she feels like giving a "slap of democracy" to the Prime Minister. Earlier, the Trinamool chief, who has given a call to win all 42 Lok Sabha seats in West Bengal, said she would send a rosogolla (sweet) of sand with stones in it to Modi, who revealed in a non-political interview with actor Akshay Kumar that Banerjee used to send him kurtas every year. Not wasting much time, the Left and Congress, which are fighting a battle of survival in West Bengal, accused Trinamool and BJP of having bonhomie behind the curtains. As the country is heading towards the sixth phase of Lok Sabha polls, the BJP is eyeing to make a dent in south Bengal, which is a Trinamool bastion. In Bankura, BJP's Subhas Sarkar is up against Trinamool veteran and former state minister Subrata Mukherjee. The students get to take something home from the day too. They get a handwriting book from the Camp Creek schoolhouse, a postcard in the print shop and a stamp in the post office. They also can take home a tin punch pattern, rag doll and cross stitch. The day itself is a way to cap off lessons students have been doing in their classrooms. Gregg Culver, fourth grade teacher at Eagle Elementary, said there are four chapters in the Nebraska book that students have been working on. Pioneer School is a way to wrap up Nebraska studies. Its a good way to culminate with this, he said. His students have been working on a writing project about Nebraska history. Culver said students will have an opportunity to add to or change their project, based on what they learned Friday. Danielle Griffin, who helps chair the Camp Creek Threshers Pioneer School committee, said the day is a great way to cap off studies in the classroom. For her, Pioneer School is not only about history, but also getting them out and active. He also co-founded and currently chairs the Collaborative for Academic, Social and Emotional Learning, a school reform organization in the field of social-emotional learning. He has produced four films and authored a New York Times Best Selling book. Shriver asked those gathered Friday to repeat the chose to include pledge several times and thanked them for putting those words into action. Shriver wasnt the only one thanking the community however, Jeff Raikes, an Ashland-Greenwood alum and co-founder of the Raikes Foundation, also came home for Fridays activities. His work with Microsoft Corporation and his philanthropic activities have taken him around the world and he now lives in Seattle, but he still called Ashland home and he applauded the unified athletes. This is still home to me and all of you represent the values I learned here, he told the athletes during the opening ceremony. During the track and field events, U.S. Sen. Ben Sasse also stopped in for a visit. He too praised the athletes for thier determination. Thanks for the grit. Thanks for the character, he said. Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan, right, and Prince Georges County Executive Angela D. Alsobrooks both said they tested positive for the coronavirus this week. (Michael Robinson Chavez/The Post) The declaration allows the facilities to modify surgical schedules and redeploy staff to meet a surging demand for care. Meanwhile, Prince Georges County Executive Angela D. Alsobrooks (D) tweeted that she had tested positive for the coronavirus. Geng Shuang, the spokesman of Foreign Ministry, during a press conference on Wednesday. [Photo/Foreign Ministry] Beijing resolutely opposes the United States House of Representatives for passing a bill on Tuesday to bolster Taiwan's defense capability, calling it "boorish interference" in China's domestic affairs. Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang made the comment on Wednesday after the House voted to pass a nonbinding resolution reaffirming the US commitment to Taiwan. It also backed the so--called Taiwan Assurance Act of 2019, which supports Taiwan increasing its defense spending. The legislation states that Washington should conduct "regular sales" of "defense articles" to Taiwan and back its participation in international organizations. "We urge the US side to keep its promise, abide by the one--China policy and the three joint communiques, and block the bill's progress," Geng said. He urged the US to "appropriately handle the Taiwan question to avoid serious damage to Sino-US cooperation in key areas, and the peace and security of the region". Experts said the bill will further damage Sino-US relations, and the confrontational approach taken by the US against China will damage regional peace and security. Yuan Zheng, director of US foreign relations research at the Institute of American Studies under the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, said the recent passage of US naval vessels through the Taiwan Straits, arms sales and political support to Taiwan are meant to help Taiwan separatists and pressure Beijing. "China has exercised great restraint and goodwill in trying to maintain stable relations with the US," he said. Li Haidong, a professor of US studies at China Foreign Affairs University, said Washington has pushed a hard line in relations with Beijing in recent years. "The Taiwan question is much more complicated and nonnegotiable," Li said. "If the US side continues to misinterpret the one--China policy, it will irreparably damage Sino--US ties," he warned. The US Senate will have to vote on the act before it can become law. The time of the vote is unknown. "The consensus among US officials is to be tough on China, and room for rational options is rapidly shrinking as overconfidence and rash actions become the new norm," he said. Jammu, May 9 (UNI): Alert troops of Border Security Force on Thursday arrested an ex Army man of Pakistan from along international border in Samba district of Jammu and Kashmir. "Our troops this morning noticed some suspicious movement near International Border in Samba sector," a senior BSF official here said. He added that one person was arrested near the fence. "As per initial reports, he is a retired army personnel from Pakistan and identified as Mohammad Afzal, aged around 35 years," he said. The officer said two mobile phones had also been recovered from him while the matter is being investigated and reason behind his movement close to the border is being ascertained. A: Well, I want to be a part of ensuring that thats not the case. So we are putting our full force and weight behind trying to prevent that from happening. And we are certainly not the sole answer for it, but we want to play a very key role in that, because we know that democracy only exists when there is a free and open media, so we really want to play a key role in helping the media. Much of the dispute over the disaster legislation, which has been pending in one form or another since last year, has focused on a dispute between President Trump and congressional Democrats over aid to Puerto Rico. That issue, too, remains unresolved, but has been joined by a cluster of other matters namely the harbor fund and the border money in creating fresh complications for the disaster legislation. Trump has tried to reassure China by stating publicly that his goal is not to prevent its rise and that he blames his American predecessors, rather than Beijing, for the chronic U.S. trade deficit, according to an individual close to the talks who spoke on the condition of anonymity to explain internal deliberations. To stand up in front of your classmates and lead them as drum major is the height of responsibility in a school band. It takes a combination of authority and respect to keep that many people marching in step and that many instruments humming in rhythm. At Cathedral High School, its an honor that until next school year hasnt been afforded to an African American female student this century. Chloe Miller, a 16-year old sophomore, will be the first to own that honor. She was one of two drum majors Cathedrals band leadership including the director, other adult judges and current drum major selected to lead the Pride of the Irish. Thats always been important for me, to see someone who looks like me in the band, Miller said. Thats one of the reasons I wanted to become drum major. There have been African American drum majors, but most have been male. The last African American female drum major was Willacin Gholston, who graduated in 1995. Drum major auditions included giving a short speech to the band, calling out commands and leading the band in the national anthem. Band director Kathy McCullough said Miller was especially impressive during the national anthem, showing that she wont have a problem giving direction to band members who will be older than her. McCullough said band members had a good response to Miller, which isnt always the case when soon-to-be seniors take orders from younger classmates. Miller said she felt confident during her audition, but she had to wait three days to learn her fate, a nerve-wracking stretch of time. It turns out Miller should have believed her instinct during the audition. That whole day, the night before, I was frantic and nervous, said Miller, who started playing the flute in sixth grade and wants to also learn the saxophone. [But] when I went through the motions, I felt confident and like thats where I was supposed to be. McCullough has been the band director for 22 years, making Miller the first African American female drum major under her leadership. Its special, absolutely, McCullough said. On the other hand, she was the best. It didnt matter if she was African American or female. We take the best person. Im thrilled that its Chloe. She earned the job. Miller knew there had been African American male drum majors before her but wasnt sure when Cathedral ever had a female drum major. Though she wont be the first, shell be the first in quite a while. That means Miller may have to get used to girls her younger sister being one looking up to her as a role model. Maybe theres some pressure, I guess, she said, to be the best drum major I can be and represent myself and my race as well as I can. Contact staff writer Tyler Fenwick at 317-762-7853. Follow him on Twitter @Ty_Fenwick. An earlier version of this story incorrectly said Miller would be the first African American drum major at Cathedral High School. Cathedral later found records showing Willacin Gholston, who graduated in 1995, was the last African American female drum major, though the school did not know if she was the first. On television, shows such as Profiler, Touching Evil and Wire in the Blood featured protagonists deeply attuned to the minds and motivations of violent criminals. Shows like CSI, with its intense focus on forensic detail, and Criminal Minds, with its serial killer of the week and emphasis on psychological profiling, are similarly indebted. In books, a number of gifted writers have absorbed Harriss influence and produced memorable works of their own. These include Americas Chelsea Cain (the Gretchen Lowell series) and Caleb Carr (The Alienist, which, in turn, was adapted for television), Britains Val McDermid (The Tony Hill/Carol Jordan novels, which inspired Wire in the Blood) and South Africas Rennie Airth, whose 1999 historical thriller River of Darkness is one of the finest serial killer novels to be published in the years since The Silence of the Lambs. Metcalf has earned a Tony nomination for her portrayal of Hillary, who begins the play wistfully addressing the audience about the peculiar fate to which she has been relegated, never achieving what so many thought was in her grasp. Her brutally raw performance is tinged with gallows humor, melancholy and rage attitudes and emotions to which Metcalf acknowledges shes professionally drawn. In 2017, she won a Tony as Nora in Hnaths A Dolls House, Part Two, who returns years later to the family she deserted in Henrik Ibsens 1879 proto-feminist masterpiece, A Dolls House. A second Tony followed last year, for Metcalfs turn as the middle-aged version of a dyspeptic dowager played by Glenda Jackson in a revival of Edward Albees Three Tall Women. Jennings, 68, never thought about mining her childhood for a semi-autobiographical play until she met Philip Rose the producer whose credits include the Broadway premiere of A Raisin in the Sun more than a decade ago at an Arena Stage event. Rose broached the idea, and Jennings gradually created an entertainingly descriptive schoolgirl whose eyes widen starting at age 12 as she notices everything from boys to culture clashes. Both scripts call for the lone actor to play multiple parts Caribbean father, watchful mother, risk-taking friends and Ursula won a Helen Hayes Award for Queens Girl in the World. David, however, didnt realize he had signed up for a second Date Lab article (as opposed to a mere setup) until it was kind of too late. JoAnna knew she had signed up for an article, but felt a bit queasy that her date might know more about her than she would about him. I was thinking, my name had a pretty unique spelling. ... He could look up my name and probably find me. ... I work at NASA, my name is on all the press releases, she recalled. And then I remembered, Wait. Guys dont do that because theyre not worried about getting murdered. But her relief was short-lived: When she arrived at Teds Bulletin, it was clear that David already knew her name, her job and the name of her cat not a murder-level problem but enough to put me on my back foot, she said. Its also not clear whether the White House is accurately counting the number of days that reporters enter the grounds. One journalist said she received an email notifying her that she had met the standard and that she had been granted renewal of her hard pass despite the fact that she has been to the White House only a few times over the past year. When I asked D.C. Public Schools about this, they showed me their blanket policy from 2016 on playgrounds and fields, which calls them community facilities that should be open before school, after school and on weekends to the public, with an exception: Certain DCPS playgrounds are gated, locked, and unavailable to the public at certain times, including on weekends. That leaves a lot of wiggle room, and schools spokesperson Shayne Wells acknowledged that. Though the annual death toll remains record-breaking and more than four times higher than just nine years ago the rate of increase is the slowest single-year jump since 2011, according to a first-of-its-kind state report released Thursday. Opioid-related deaths increased by 8.2 percent in 2017 and by 70.4 percent in 2016, the report said. When faced with previous polls showing him trailing Trump in a hypothetical matchup, Hogan has pointed out that he has a higher overall approval rating than Trump in Maryland, the only place nationwide where theyve both been on the ballot. Hogans job approval rating among all Maryland voters is 76 percent, while Trumps is 39 percent. Shanna Reed, a nurse at the Innovative Unit at St. Vincent Indianapolis, remembered a cancer patient she befriended. Near the end of the patients life, she had two requests. The first was a cheeseburger, which Reed happily supplied. The second was that Reed be the one to deliver the patients last wishes to her family. That day reminded Reed about the importance of her job. Being a bedside nurse, you are going to take on the many different characteristics, but the main thing is being an advocate for your patient, Reed said. Even though we encompass many different roles, its so rewarding. Reeds story highlights the important role the countrys 4 million nurses play in the health care industry, said Mary Myers, the chief nursing officer at St. Vincent. According to the article, The State of Nursing, from Purdue University there are 59,000 nurses in Indiana. Despite that number, both the state and the nation are facing a nursing shortage, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicting a nationwide shortage of more than 200,000 nurses by 2026. Tanya Hahn, vice president of talent acquisition at IU Health, said nurses currently make up a third of IU Healths workforce, yet the hospital network still has over 300 nursing positions available. The nursing shortage is expected to grow as baby boomers continue entering an age requiring more medical attention at a rate that outpaces enrollment in nursing schools. In addition, 24% of nurses in Indiana are over 55 and nearing retirement, according to a study by Indiana Universitys Bowen Center for Health Workforce Research and Policy. To combat the shortage local hospitals use teamwork and nursing pools to help provide quality care while colleges offer multiple paths to a nursing degree. Although Charlee Hunt, a nurse at St. Vincent Womens Hospital, knows theres a shortage, she never feels like shes doing the work of two or three people because fellow nurses pitch in when needed and care for patients who are not their own. It really does take a village to take care of our patients, Hunt said. Nursing pools also are a creative way hospitals tackle the shortage. To become part of a nursing pool, nurses can apply to work at any hospital where theres a need. Much like a substitute teacher a nurse could have at a different assignment daily or work at one hospital long term. This option provides assistance to the hospitals that are short staffed and offers nurses flexible hours and better pay. Most hospitals have resource pool nurses St. Vincent employs over 200, Myers said. Colleges also address the nursing shortage through accelerated programs. For example, those with a general bachelors degree can earn a Bachelor of Nursing from Marian University in 16 months. Ivy Tech Community College created a similar program in 2009 where paramedics can transition to become nurses. However, as colleges work to enroll more students in nursing programs, school officials must be cautious to keep standards in place. It would be really easy to say, expand, expand, expand, but you do have to expand responsibly and be able to maintain the quality of education, Angela Koller, dean of nursing and professor at Ivy Tech, said. That is very important. As we have expanded our numbers slightly over the last few years, we are trying to do that in a very smart fashion, so our quality of nurse does not change. Contact staff writer Ben Lashar at 317-762-7848. Follow him on Twitter @BenjaminLashar. The following information, provided by the Montgomery County Police Department, shows selected offenses reported to police. Crime reports may be based on preliminary information that is subject to change as a result of further investigation. Manafort, who was admitted to the D.C. bar in 1979, pleaded guilty to the charges last year in U.S. District Court in Washington. He was also convicted in Alexandria federal court of eight bank- and tax-fraud charges stemming from millions he made in Ukraine and his attempts to get loans when that funding dried up. Manafort, 70, was sentenced to 7 years in prison for both convictions. Detectives have not uncovered evidence that Rossi had contact with the children in the images, but they are asking anyone who might have information about inappropriate interactions between Rossi and children to come forward, police said. Its a challenging case for prosecutors. The two gunmen have never been identified. Henderson told police that she had just gotten out of the drivers side of the car, which she had parked at her apartment complex, when the shooters approached and that she could not provide any description of the assailants because they wore masks. Residents of the complex called 911 to report the shooting. Some witnesses also said they saw two masked men running away from the scene. Festival Way, 7:04 p.m. May 2. Two women and a man were caught stealing merchandise in a beauty supply shop. When confronted by an employee, one of them threatened the employee with a knife, and they fled, dropping a bag containing more than $800 in perfumes. The two women, ages 24 and 27, and the male, 25, all from Baltimore, were arrested following a traffic stop and charged with robbery, theft and related charges. The owner of the building told them to turn off the electricity and then we were told that they say the owner of the building is Carlos Vecchio, Benjamin said, referring to the Guaido-appointed U.S. ambassador. It is the government of Maduro that has been paying all the bills all along for this building, including the Pepco bill, which is up to date. Climate change poses very serious risks not just to the planet but to companies well-being and the overall economy and society, said Bruce Freed, president of the nonprofit Center for Political Accountability. We have a broken political system where these issues are not being addressed, so there are more and more investors resolutions to take on these issues. It is an alternative route. Over the course of three decades as a Jesuit priest who started what has become the largest gang intervention program in the country, Father Greg Boyle has developed a steadfast message, one many in attendance at the Faith and Action Project spring conference May 2 at Eastern Star Church were likely familiar with before his keynote speech. Its about meeting people where they are with compassion, suspending ones own sense of whats right and whats wrong and taking time to listen to those on the margins. It is a beautiful moment when someone takes the time to recognize the image of God in all of humanity, Christian Theological Seminary interim President William Kincaid said when he introduced Boyle to the pulpit. Familiar as they may have been with Boyle and his work, those in attendance were at the mercy of the emotional strings he pulled with ease, going from humor to disbelief to pity and back to humor again. Boyle told stories of the gang members hes come to know since he started Homeboy Industries in 1988. There was the homie as Boyle calls the former gang members he works with who stood up in front of a crowd of 600 social workers in Virginia and, through tears, told them about the mother who beat him daily to the point that he wore three shirts to school: one to soak up the blood from his wounds, another to soak up what the first shirt couldnt and a third to hide it all. There were uplifting stories, like the former gang member they call him Dreamer who struggled to stay out of jail but proudly waved his first paycheck in the air in Boyles Los Angeles office after Boyle helped get him a job with a vending machine company. Those stories touched a different spot in me, remembering what Ive been through and what Ive come through, said Dwight Fortune, who was addicted to crack cocaine for seven years and is now an author and speaker. Fortune, 39, did nine months in jail for possession of stolen property to feed my addiction and understood what Boyle meant when he talked about meeting people where they are. Boyle said those who want to help shouldnt go to the margins to meet those in poverty, those stuck in a cycle of violence, those addicted to drugs to save people because then its about you. We go to the margins so that the folks at the margins make us different, he said. Boyle, a white man who, prior to Homeboy Industries, was without natural connections to the people he works with, believes its this philosophy that has helped him reach so many people. Last year, with a budget of $19 million, Homeboy Industries welcomed over 400 people into its program. Once someone in need feels like theyre finally being heard, Boyle said, they can come to realize what he called the truth: that God had in mind who they would be when he created them. No bullet can pierce it, no four prison walls can keep it out, and death cant touch it, he said. It was to Boyles point that people who have good intentions should stop thinking about how to reach those people and instead think about what those people can teach them. For Bryan Chatfield, associate director at Holy Family Shelter on the west side, it was a lesson he plans to take back to his staff. We talk about serving with compassion a lot, said Chatfield, 38, who ran for Indianapolis City-County Council, but he added the point of being led by those were serving. Thats something that I never really thought about before. It might be easy to forget in some moments that Boyle is an ordained priest he didnt hesitate to include the occasional damn or hell in the non-Biblical way but faith, even when not overt, is at the foundation of everything Boyle has done for the last 31 years. He told a story about a former gang member who was reading a responsorial psalm at Mass and said, The Lord is exhausted, rather than exalted. The crowd got a good laugh out of that, as they did at many points throughout Boyles presentation, but Boyle said he actually prefers the exhausted God. He said the exhausted God is generous and without judgment. He encouraged everyone to try to please that God by reflecting the same character. This time together is not the place you come to, Boyle said. Its the place you go from. Its not just so much about taking the right stand on issues. Its about standing in the right place. Its more humble and its more effective actually when we do that. Contact staff writer Tyler Fenwick at 317-762-7853. Follow him on Twitter @Ty_Fenwick. The walkout follows a wave of teacher activism that started in West Virginia in 2018 and was followed by Oklahoma, Kentucky, Arizona and elsewhere. Teachers in North Carolina and South Carolina rallied at their respective state capitols last week to seek more money. There is little that can stop the brutal assault underway in northwest Syria, where Russian, Iranian and Assad regime forces have launched a major military offensive as millions of civilians flee for their lives. But the record shows that if President Trump acts to try to halt the slaughter, it will have real impact on the ground. Even a presidential tweet could save lives. Time is of the essence. Jerry Chun Shing Lee, who was a CIA case officer from 1994 to 2007, pleaded guilty May 1 to conspiring with Chinese intelligence agents to provide secret information. U.S. officials wont discuss the precise damage Lee did, but intelligence experts believe he was part of an aggressive Chinese spy operation that led to the exposure, arrest and execution of at least 20 CIA sources inside China. For an intelligence service such as the CIA, thats as bad as it gets. MAY 3 was World Press Freedom Day, and nowhere is that date more significant than at the Managua, Nicaragua, offices of La Prensa, the redoubtable 93-year-old newspaper that has stood up to dictatorships in that country since the days of the Somoza family dynasty. As if to mark or spoil the occasion, La Prensas enemies chose May 3 to launch a cyberattack on its website. About 11,000 requests per second tried to overwhelm it and deny access to readers both in Nicaragua and abroad. La Prensa managed to fend off the attack, whose precise origin remains unproved, though La Prensa has its well-founded suspicions. In a characteristically witty editorial, the paper noted the initials for such a distributed denial-of-service attack DDOS correspond to De [from] Daniel Ortega Saavedra. Mr. Ortega, of course, is the authoritarian president who has been clinging to power through ferocious repression since a popular uprising against his government broke out in April 2018. For example, the second year of Rhode Island Promise saw a 113 percent surge in first-time full-time community-college enrollment from 2016 most of which (61 percent) came from low-income students. In the first year of the Tennessee Promise, that states college-going rate increased 5.9 percentage points to about 64 percent. About 40 percent of the participants in this pioneering free-college-tuition program are the first in their family to attend college. Ms. Baum and Ms. Turner wrote that theres not much reason to think that setting tuition at zero would significantly boost enrollment. Rhode Island and Tennessee prove thats not true. Though still modest in their economic impact, the tariffs have symbolism that stings these long-standing U.S. allies and trading partners. For the most part, they do not abuse international trade rules as China does. Indeed, they share many of the United States concerns with Chinese protectionism, theft of intellectual property and subsidized state enterprises. Yet by bracketing old friends with Beijing, even justifying some levies against them (on steel and aluminum) on national security grounds, Mr. Trump has made it politically difficult for them to rally to the U.S. side in the dispute with China. They were in fact obliged to retaliate. But what happens when that ethical foundation erodes or crumbles? There are things we can learn from the German military and the Holocaust that are relevant today without arguing that we are Nazis. One lesson is the influence of an institutions culture on criminal behavior during wartime. The German state intentionally created such a culture (another important distinction from the current situation). Before a German soldier set foot in the Soviet Union, he received several unmistakable clues about what behavior would be acceptable. The Commissar Order explicitly called for the summary execution of all Red Army political officers, an act that violated all laws of war, including those that Germany was party to. Also, the guidelines for German troops, disseminated the day before the invasion, stated that this war demands ruthless and aggressive action against Bolshevik agitators, snipers, saboteurs, and Jews and tireless elimination of any active or passive resistance. Passive resistance would be interpreted liberally. Last, and most striking in light of Trumps pardon of Behenna, was the Jurisdiction Order. Issued in May 1941 directly by Adolf Hitler, it informed troops that for offenses committed by members of the Wehrmacht and its employees against enemy civilians, prosecution is not compulsory, not even if the offense is at the same time a military crime or violation. Soldiers were literally told that they would not be tried for behavior that would be a crime anywhere else in Europe. Pence announced the pending deployment of a Navy hospital ship to the region in June and said the United States would lift sanctions on one senior Maduro aide who had switched sides. That was a shift from previous rhetoric about the tightening yoke of sanctions and was meant to emphasize that there are carrots in the U.S. policy as well as sticks, one senior official said. How The U.S. Is Pressing Iran To Breach The Nuclear Deal By Moon Of Alabama May 09, 2019 " Information Clearing House " - 363 days ago the U.S. left the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), the 'nuclear deal' with Iran, and reintroduced sanctions against trade with Iran. When the U.S. reintroduced sanctions on Iran it provided sanction 'wavers' for some customers of Iranian oil. Two weeks ago the extremists in the Trump administration won out and the those waivers were eliminated. Some of Iran's customers, Iraq, Turkey and China, will continue to buy Iranian oil and will face U.S. sanctions. The declared aim of the Trump administration's 'maximum pressure campaign' is to bring all trade with Iran to zero and the country to its knees. On Wednesday May 8, one years after the U.S. breached the deal, it will announce additional sanctions against the country: The Wall Street Journal reported last week that new sanctions would target petrochemical sales. I'm told the administration will likely impose those sanctions soon, but the new sanctions planned for this week will target a different sector of the Iranian economy. The only European response to the new announcements was a lame statement. The EU should fight for the JCPOA deal as it is in its interest. But instead it is slow-walking its badly designed INSTEX mechanism that would allow for sanction free trade with Iran. Iran will use the anniversary of the U.S. breach of the deal to announce that it will no longer stick to some of the restrictions of the JCPOA. Tired Of The Lies And Non-Stop Propaganda? Get our FREE Daily Newsletter The U.S. is not only sanctioning Iranian trade that was promised to be opened under the JCPOA deal, it is also trying to eliminate all other beneficial elements of the deal. The Trump administration wants to force Iran to come into breach of the deal to then use that as an excuse for further action against the country. The U.S. provided waivers for several nuclear trades that were part of the JCPOA deal. Some of these were now eliminated, others were put under time restrictions. Iran is allowed to enrich Uranium under the deal, but it is not allowed to hold large amounts of ready enriched Uranium. Enriched Uranium is valuable and Iran found a customer who bought it. Iran also produces heavy water, needed to cool some types of reactors, and exports it. These trades were previously provided with waivers. The Trump administration did not renew those wavers and the export of those products will end. Iran will have to either stop all enrichment and heavy water production or it will have to store what it produces and thereby come into breach of the JCPOA agreement. Another nuclear trade was about the revamping of the Arak heavy water reactor. Running that reactor in its original form would have produced some plutonium as a byproduct. After the JCPOA agreement Iran contracted a Russian company to convert the Arak reactor into a type that could produce isotopes for medical purposes. The U.S. waiver for that deal has now been time restricted to 90 days. The Russian company is now under a 90 day threat of U.S. sanctions for a project that takes years of design and construction. Iran is starting to counter the U.S. moves. On Wednesday the Iranian president Rouhani will announce that Iran will take measures based on paragraphs 26 and 37 of the nuclear deal (pdf). Paragraph 26 says that the the EU and the U.S. will lift all nuclear related sanctions and will refrain from re-introducing any. It continues: Iran has stated that it will treat such a re-introduction or re-imposition of the sanctions specified in Annex II, or such an imposition of new nuclear-related sanctions, as grounds to cease performing its commitments under this JCPOA in whole or in part. Paragraph 37 is part of the "Dispute Resolution Mechanism" which ends with an involvement of the UN Security Council where the U.S. can block the process. It therefore includes at its end: Iran has stated that if sanctions are reinstated in whole or in part, Iran will treat that as grounds to cease performing its commitments under this JCPOA in whole or in part. Iran will use these clauses to 'breach' some of the provisions of the deal while keeping the deal intact. It will continue to allow the IAEA free access to all elements of its nuclear facilities. Iran will not cease enrichment. It will begin to store enriched uranium above the level that is above the one allowed under an intact JCPOA. The same will apply to the heavy water Iran produces. It will probably also announce the construction of a new self developed reactor that is designed to produce radioactive isotopes for medical purposes. The EU, Russia and China have been unofficially informed about the steps Iran is going to take. Tomorrow there will be expert level talks over JCPOA between Iran, Germany, UK, France, Russia and China in Brussels. That Iran is forced to temporarily accumulate products above the level allowed in the deal is solely caused by the U.S. breach of that deal, i.e. its new sanctions. It is unlikely that the other JCPOA signers will regard Iran's as being in breach of the JCPOA. The U.S. will of course scream bloody murder and will continue to do what it would have done anyway - ratchet the tensions further up Yesterday National Security Advisor John 'Stache' Bolton announced that an aircraft carrier and U.S. long range bombers would be send to Gulf to counter and imminent threat from Iran. That was empty bluster. Micah Zenko @MicahZenko - 1:07 utc - 6 May 2019 Bolton framing a routine deployment of the Lincoln to CENTCOM AOR as an attempt to frighten Iran is an especially weak and hollow threat. The carrier deployment to the Gulf is routine. It had been announced on April 8. The U.S. has bombers on rotation in the Middle East since 2001. Moreover - a carrier in the Persian Gulf is a sure sign that the U.S. will not attack Iran. Within the restricted waters of the Persian Gulf a carrier is a too easy target. The idea though may be to provide for an 'accident' as Iran's Foreign Minister described it in a recent CBS interview: FOREIGN MINISTER ZARIF: I don't think military confrontation will happen. I think people have more prudence than allowing a military confrontation to happen. But, I think the U.S. administration is putting things in place for accidents to happen. And there has to be extreme vigilance, so that people who are planning this type of accident would not have their way. MARGARET BRENNAN: What do you mean? What kind of accident are you talking about? FOREIGN MINISTER ZARIF: I'm talking about people who have- who are designing confrontation, whose interest-- MARGARET BRENNAN: Who's doing that? FOREIGN MINISTER ZARIF: My 'B' team. I call-- MARGARET BRENNAN: What do you mean 'B' team? FOREIGN MINISTER ZARIF: I call the group 'B' team who have always tried to create tension, whose continued existence depends on tension. Ambassador Bolton, one 'B,' Bibi Netanyahu, second 'B,' Bin Zayed, third 'B,' Bin Salman, fourth 'B.' And I'm not just making accusations. ... The Trump administration is hoping that its new sanctions will not raise the oil price. That is unlikely to hold as the oil market is stretched: Trying to take out Venezuela and Iran simultaneously tightens the oil market. Additional upsets in Libya or a less expected area such as Algeria or Nigeria could exceed available spare capacity. The US production will expand with higher prices but cannot switch on and off at command like a true strategic producer. Its predominantly very light crude is not a good replacement for diesel-rich medium-heavy barrels, like those from these two countries. This issue may become more acute at the end of this year when as much as 1 million barrels of diesel may be required worldwide to meet new shipping fuel regulations. The lighter U.S. and Arab variants of oil can not replace the heavy types. One can crack the long hydrocarbon chains of heavy oil into lighter types but one can not easily make long chains from short ones. Rising oil prices may be the only factor that could press Trump to change his confrontational strategy towards Iran. But the big danger now is that the extremists in his administration will ratchet up the various conflicts in the Middle East until they explode and make it impossible to change course. They are only waiting for the 'accidents' to happen. This article was originally published by " Moon Of Alabama " - The panel issued the subpoena after weeks of negotiations with Trump Jr. for a second interview that aides to both parties say he had to have known was always part of the deal, since the committee always planned to bring back key witnesses for a second session in which senators would be included. Committee staffers have been conducting most of the interviews in the intelligence panels probe. One would reverse cuts to outreach and enrollment funding that was included as part of the ACA to help Americans as they sign up for health care through marketplaces or other government programs. Another would shore up the ACAs navigator program, which provides grants to independent outside groups to help Americans enroll in insurance plans. A third would undo other administrative moves to allow for more of the loosely regulated short-term plans that many Democrats deride as junk insurance. The storm left the future of the base, which is a boon to the local economy, in doubt. At the rally, Trump said officials told him Tyndall may need to shut down, but he made a phone call. Now, the president promised, there will be more people working at Tyndall than the day before the hurricane. McConnell and his campaigns embrace of the nickname is an attempted reclamation of a moniker once deployed against them. Roughly a year ago, GOP Senate candidate from West Virginia and former coal magnate Don Blankenship aired a campaign advertisement that referred to McConnell, without any context, as Cocaine Mitch. It was an apparent nod to a years-old allegation that the family of McConnells wife, Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao, has a shipping background connected to drug dealers. In terms of timing, when were ready well come to the floor, she said when asked about the timing of a vote by the full House on whether to hold Barr in contempt. And well just see because there may be some other contempt of Congress issues that we might want to deal with at the same time. And he wants to do it as soon as possible, and so do we. Id like to see with Iran, Id like to see them call me, Trump said. You know, John Kerry speaks to them a lot. John Kerry tells them not to call. Thats a violation of the Logan Act. And frankly, he should be prosecuted on that. But my people dont want to do anything thats only the Democrats do that kind of stuff, you know? If it were the opposite way, theyd prosecute him under the Logan Act. More than 50 percent of Australians say their ancestry is English, Irish or Scottish, according to the most recent census. No Australian of Asian heritage has ever held one of the most senior offices of state, even though people with Chinese ancestry now account for more than 5 percent of the Australian population. Which New War Next: Iran or Venezuela? By Jacob G. Hornberger May 09, 2019 " Information Clearing House " - Pity President Donald America First Trump, Secretary of State (and former CIA Director) Mike Pompeo, National-Security Advisor (and Cold War fanatic) John Bolton, and Special U.S. Representative to Venezuela (and Cold War fanatic) Eliott Abrams. Knowing that the American people have grown weary with their forever wars in Afghanistan, Iraq, Syria, Libya, and Yemen, these four interventionists cant decide whether to initiate a new war against Venezuela or against Iran or against both. They just know that they want a new war, an exciting war, a winnable war against a poor Third World country, a war that will cause Americans to forget about the ongoing fiascoes in the Middle East and Afghanistan and that will hopefully restore America to greatness through mission-accomplished conquest, bombing, death, destruction, and regime-change. One can easily imagine the arguments that must be taking place in the White House: Iran! They ousted our Shah from power! No, Venezuela! Its part of the worldwide communist conspiracy to take over America! Ideally from their standpoint, the choice will be made easier for them if either Iran or Venezuela strikes first. After all, lets not forget that the Constitution, which is supposedly the law of the land, requires a congressional declaration of war before the president and his army can wage war. Moreover, after World War II, the Nuremberg War Crimes declared it to be a war crime for one nation to initiate an attack on another nation. Not that any president concerns himself with the Constitution and with Nuremberg principles. Trump knows that he can violate that section of the Constitution with impunity. He knows that while Congress might impeach him for collusion with the Russians or with the nebulous crime of obstructing justice, there is no possibility that Congress will impeach him for intentionally violating the declaration-of-war restriction in the Constitution. He also knows that there is no possibility that the U.S. Supreme Court, whose responsibility is to enforce the Constitution, will be anything but passive and deferential to any war initiated by the president. Tired Of The Lies And Non-Stop Propaganda? Get our FREE Daily Newsletter Nonetheless, from the standpoint of these four interventionists, the ideal is for either Venezuela or Iran to attack the United States or, as theyre now putting it, attack U.S. interests, whatever that means. That way, they can exclaim, We have been attacked! We are shocked! We had no idea that this would happen! We are innocent! We were just minding our own business! This is an act of aggression! This is another day that will live in infamy! We now have no choice but to engage in self-defense by dropping bombs and wreaking death and destruction in order to achieve regime-change! Their model, of course, is President Franklin Roosevelt, who finagled Japan into attacking U.S. troops at Pearl Harbor. At that time, U.S. presidents were still complying with the constitutional provision requiring a congressional declaration war. FDR knew that he couldnt secure a congressional declaration of war, given that the the American people were overwhelmingly opposed to entering World War II, especially after the deadly, destructive, and useless fiasco of World War I. At first, FDR did his best to provoke the Germans into attacking the United States, so that he could exclaim, We have been attacked! Now give me my declaration of war! But the Germans refused to take his bait. So, FDR went into the Pacific and began provoking the Japanese, with the aim of securing a back door to the European conflict. Among his principal means of provocation were insulting and humiliating Japanese officials, freezing Japanese assets in the United States, and most important, imposing an embargo on oil, which FDR knew the Japanese needed to maintaining their war machine in China. FDRs plan worked brilliantly. Insulted, humiliated, and squeezed, the Japanese tried to slip out of FDRs ever-tightening noose by trying to knock out the U.S. Pacific Fleet with their attack at Pearl Harbor, which would have, they hoped, enabled them to secure oil from the Dutch East Indies without U.S. interference. The attack at Pearl Harbor enabled FDR to appear before Congress and exclaim: We have been attacked! We are shocked! We are innocent! We had no idea that this was going to happen! This is an act of aggression! This is a day that will live in infamy! Now, give me my declaration of war! Because Germany declared war on the U.S. to honor its alliance with Japan, FDR had gotten what he wanted entry of the U.S. into World War II. That is the model that Trump, Pompeo, Abrams, and Bolton are now employing against both Iran and Venezuela. They have announced that they will not permit any nation to buy oil from Iran, with the aim of bringing as much economic suffering and even death to the Iranian citizenry as possible. At the same time, they have frozen assets of Venezuela here in the United States, decreed an alternative president for the country, inflicted massive harm on the Venezuelan people though ever-tightening economic sanctions, and fomented violent revolution within the country, Time will tell if Trump had his merry band of interventionists will be as successful as Roosevelt was, or whether Trump and his interventionist cohorts will lose patience and initiate a new undeclared war of aggression against Iran, Venezuela, or both. Jacob G. Hornberger is founder and president of The Future of Freedom Foundation. He was born and raised in Laredo, Texas, and received his B.A. in economics from Virginia Military Institute and his law degree from the University of Texas. He was a trial attorney for twelve years in Texas. He also was an adjunct professor at the University of Dallas, where he taught law and economics. In 1987, Mr. Hornberger left the practice of law to become director of programs at the Foundation for Economic Education. Send him email. This article was originally published by " FFF " - Kim risks overshooting and provoking a furious Trump backlash if the latter feels betrayed, he wrote in an email. And if this is an attempt to pressure the U.S. to moderate its negotiating position, it may backfire: The U.S. may only harden it to avoid looking like its caving to North Korean tests and pressure. So, if this push-the-line strategy continues or intensifies, hold on to your hats. Lori Kaye, 60, of Poway was killed, and the three others wounded included a child. The San Diego County sheriff has said the shooters rifle malfunctioned after he fired inside the synagogue, and that might have prevented more carnage. The complaint says Earnest unsuccessfully tried to reload, and members of the synagogue moved to confront him. Brewer said Earnest had 60 rounds of ammunition. Assuming any contempt citation winds up in court, as they have in the past, it will join other legal actions by the House already underway: one in defense of its appropriations powers to halt Trumps repurposing of federal funds to build a wall on the southern border; another in defense of the Affordable Care Act, which the Justice Department has declined to defend though it has historically been its duty to defend acts of Congress; and another at the Supreme Court where, in a friend-of-the-court brief, the House is trying to undo the Trump administrations decision to add a citizenship question to the 2020 census. What's in a Cartoon? Netanyahu guide dog leads a blind and ignorant Trump By Philip Giraldi May 09, 2019 " Information Clearing House " - Israel and its friends in Washington and New York never miss the opportunity to exploit the news cycle to tighten the screws a bit more, rendering any criticism of the Jewish state unacceptable or even illegal. Israels Ambassador to the United Nations Danny Danon has been persistently demanding that what he describes as anti-Semitic speech be criminalized. Danon declared that The time for talking and having a conversation is over. What Israel and the Jewish community around the world demand is action and now. How exactly Danon would enforce his definition of acceptable speech is not clear, but the demands to eliminate any negative commentary regarding the holocaust or on Israel and/or the behavior of diaspora Jews have been promoted for some time, resulting in laws in Europe that inflict harsh punish on those who dare to speak out. The latest incident in the campaign to eliminate the First Amendment in America took place oddly enough on the pages of the New York Times, which, in its international edition, ran a cartoon by a Portuguese cartoonist showing a dog with the face of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on a leash leading a caricature of Donald Trump wearing a yarmulke and a blind mans glasses. The Netanyahu-dog had a tag on its collar featuring a Star of David. There are several ways to interpret the cartoon. It is, of course, an insult to dogs to have them depicted in such a fashion as to suggest that they might behave like the monstrous Israeli Prime Minister. No dog would sink so low. One observer, commenting from a dogs point of view, noted that We canines share that saying that the eyes are the window to the soul. Look into our eyes and youll see love and trust. Look into Netanyahus eyes you see cunning and deceit so why stick his head on our body? Tired Of The Lies And Non-Stop Propaganda? Get our FREE Daily Newsletter On the other hand, one might see in the cartoon a serious message, that Netanyahu has been able to wag the dog with an ignorant and impulsive United States president who is so desirous of pandering to Jews both in Israel and in the U.S. that he is blind to his obligation to do what is best for the American people. Trump, who is the first president within memory not to own a dog, would rather stroke the head of the disgusting casino billionaire Sheldon Adelson than an intelligent and loyal Labrador retriever. The cartoon was immediately blasted as being anti-Semitic, of course, because the definition of that hate crime has now been expanded to include criticism of anything that is even remotely Jewish. The Times twice went into full apology mode, promising never to do anything like that again and implying that heads would roll. The papers spokesperson stated that the publishers were deeply sorry and elaborated that The image was offensive, and it was an error of judgment to publish it. Such imagery is always dangerous, and at a time when anti-Semitism is on the rise worldwide, its all the more unacceptable. We are committed to making sure nothing like this happens again. But in spite of the abasement, the critics kept piling odd, some even claiming that the newspaper has a history of anti-Semitism. It was an odd assertion as the NYT has been Jewish owned since 1896, is home to numerous Jewish journalists, and its news coverage on the Middle East often serves as a mouthpiece for the Israeli Foreign Ministry. All-Jewish all-the-time Times columnist Bret Stephens was in particularly fine form, attacking his own employer, writing in an op-ed entitled A Despicable Cartoon in the Times that appeared within hours of the cartoons surfacing. He demanded that the Times should engage in some serious reflection as to how it came to publish that cartoon, which he described as an astonishing act of ignorance of anti-Semitism. He elaborated how the cartoon shows The small but wily Jew leading the dumb and trusting American. The hated Trump being Judaized with a skullcap. The nominal servant acting as the true master. The cartoon checked so many anti-Semitic boxes that the only thing missing was a dollar sign. It might also be noted that the Times published on Sunday a photo that might be considered highly offensive to Catholics without any commentary by Stephens or from the papers editorial apologist. Well, for once Stephens gets something right. The cartoon encapsulates the reality of U.S. policy in the Middle East and the relationship between Trump, who has made concession after concession to Israel, and his apparent masters. And yes, a few million Benjamins scattered around would have underlined why Trump misbehaves as he does. And, in a demonstration that no crisis is too small to be exploited by the Trump Administration, Vice President Mike Pence tweeted, We stand with Israel and we condemn antisemitism in ALL its forms. Donald Trump himself followed up with his own tweet on the following day, writing that The New York Times has apologized for the terrible Anti-Semitic Cartoon, but they havent apologized to me for this or all of the Fake and Corrupt news they print on a daily basis. They have reached the lowest level of journalism. The furor over a cartoon was useful as it covered up the latest outrage conducted by Israel against the Palestinians. The Israelis are again attacking Gaza, a story which the New York Times briefly reported in their Saturday edition. The Times headline in the online edition was Gaza Militants Fire 250 Rockets, and Israel Responds With Airstrikes before reporting that Palestinian militants launched about 250 rockets and mortars into southern Israel from Gaza on Saturday, and the Israeli military responded with airstrikes and tank fire against targets across the Palestinian territory Four Palestinians including one militant, another man, a pregnant woman and her young daughter were killed in Israeli strikes That would bring the total number of Gazans fatally struck by Israeli fire since Friday to eight. Note how the Times reports the story. It gives the impression that the Gazans initiated a major attack by firing hundreds of missiles while Israel responded to Palestinian initiation of violence. Framing it in that fashion is a replay of the Israeli Foreign Ministry version of events, uncorroborated by any independent observers. Other accounts differ as to who started what and whom to blame. In reality, the Israelis have been threatening Gaza for months and have been moving troops up to the fence line for what is expected to be a final push to kill alleged militants in the Strip. The Times also wastes no time on humanizing the Arab casualties the Palestinian baby that was killed was fourteen months old and named Seba Abu Arar. Her pregnant mother also died. That the media in the United States should follow the Israeli line in reporting what takes place in the Middle East should surprise no one. It is called self-censorship and it will do until real laws can be drafted that will make speaking or writing anything unpleasant about Israel illegal. Referring back to the Times cartoon, the death of free speech is the reality that we American will eventually arrive at due to the actual power relationship that lies behind the metaphor of the wily Israeli dog leading the big, dumb American blind man. Philip M. Giraldi, Ph.D., is Executive Director of the Council for the National Interest, a 501(c)3 tax deductible educational foundation (Federal ID Number #52-1739023) that seeks a more interests-based U.S. foreign policy in the Middle East. Website is councilforthenationalinterest.org, address is P.O. Box 2157, Purcellville VA 20134 and its email is inform@cnionline.org. We have to show people that is a blanket stonewalling of the publics right to know, one person involved in Democratic strategy discussions said. Some Democrats believe the presidents continued refusals ramp up the chances of an impeachment inquiry, a senior aide said, but party leaders remain skeptical of beginning such an inquiry given the odds they are unlikely to be successful. The person involved in Democratic strategy discussions and the senior aide spoke on the condition of anonymity to describe internal discussions. So far, Shanahan has largely kept his head down, probably foreshadowing a lower-profile role for the defense secretary in the administration. He has not traveled abroad as much as Mattis did, and he has rarely taken the lead on big foreign policy or military announcements, particularly with regard to nations such as North Korea, Iran and Venezuela. Instead, he has spent much of his time in the top defense post fielding curveballs from the White House regarding a national emergency declaration on the southern border and the use of Defense Department funds for the border wall the president promised would be built. Some regional experts have argued that Trumps immigration policies, his slashing of democracy aid to the region, and his general lack of interest have instead promoted a lean toward authoritarianism. Trump was the first American leader not to attend the Summit of the Americas, sending Pence instead, and has visited the region only once, when last years Group of 20 conference was held in Argentina. Separately on Thursday, U.S. military officials conducted a scheduled launch of an intercontinental ballistic missile from an Air Force facility in California. It was the second test of the U.S. Minuteman III missile this month and the third this year, though the Air Force maintains that such activity is scheduled years in advance and not in response to world events. He raised eyebrows by saying he didnt want to pursue narco bosses there is no war on drugs, he said in January and would instead prioritize reducing the homicide rate. The U.S.-backed kingpin strategy of focusing on drug lords has been widely criticized for causing Mexicos cartels to fracture into smaller groups, which have expanded into extortion, gasoline theft and other crimes. The U.S. and Canada abused their bilateral extradition treaty and took compulsory measures against a Chinese citizen without reason. This is a severe violation of the legitimate rights of the Chinese citizen and also a severe political incident, he said at a regular news briefing. We again urge the U.S. to revoke the arrest warrant and extradition request against Meng Wanzhou. We again advise Canada to take seriously Chinas position to release her and allow her to return. By John Solomon May 09, 2019 " Information Clearing House " - The boomerang from the Democratic Partys failed attempt to connect Donald Trump to Russias 2016 election meddling is picking up speed, and its flight path crosses right through Moscows pesky neighbor, Ukraine. That is where there is growing evidence a foreign power was asked, and in some cases tried, to help Hillary Clinton. In its most detailed account yet, the Ukrainian Embassy in Washington says a Democratic National Committee (DNC) insider during the 2016 election solicited dirt on Donald Trumps campaign chairman and even tried to enlist the country's president to help. In written answers to questions, Ambassador Valeriy Chaly's office says DNC contractor Alexandra Chalupa sought information from the Ukrainian government on Paul Manaforts dealings inside the country in hopes of forcing the issue before Congress. Chalupa later tried to arrange for Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko to comment on Manaforts Russian ties on a U.S. visit during the 2016 campaign, the ambassador said. Chaly says that, at the time of the contacts in 2016, the embassy knew Chalupa primarily as a Ukrainian American activist and learned only later of her ties to the DNC. He says the embassy considered her requests an inappropriate solicitation of interference in the U.S. election. Tired Of The Lies And Non-Stop Propaganda? Get our FREE Daily Newsletter The Embassy got to know Ms. Chalupa because of her engagement with Ukrainian and other diasporas in Washington D.C., and not in her DNC capacity. Weve learned about her DNC involvement later, Chaly said in a statement issued by his embassy. We were surprised to see Alexandras interest in Mr. Paul Manaforts case. It was her own cause. The Embassy representatives unambiguously refused to get involved in any way, as we were convinced that this is a strictly U.S. domestic matter. All ideas floated by Alexandra were related to approaching a Member of Congress with a purpose to initiate hearings on Paul Manafort or letting an investigative journalist ask President Poroshenko a question about Mr. Manafort during his public talk in Washington, D.C., the ambassador explained. Reached by phone last week, Chalupa said she was too busy to talk. She did not respond to email and phone messages seeking subsequent comment. Chalys written answers mark the most direct acknowledgement by Ukraines government that an American tied to the Democratic Party sought the countrys help in the 2016 election, and they confirm the main points of a January 2017 story by Politico on Chalupas efforts. In that story, the embassy was broadly quoted as denying interference in the election and suggested Chalupas main reason for contacting the ambassadors office was to organize an event celebrating female leaders. The fresh statement comes several months after a Ukrainian court ruled that the countrys National Anti-Corruption Bureau, closely aligned with the U.S. Embassy in Kiev, and a parliamentarian named Serhiy Leshchenko wrongly interfered in the 2016 American election by releasing documents related to Manafort. The acknowledgement by Kievs embassy, plus newly released testimony, suggests the Ukrainian efforts to influence the U.S. election had some intersections in Washington as well. Nellie Ohr, wife of senior U.S. Justice Department official Bruce Ohr, acknowledged in congressional testimony that, while working for the Clinton-hired research firm Fusion GPS, she researched Trump's and Manaforts ties to Russia and learned that Leshchenko, the Ukrainian lawmaker, was providing dirt to Fusion. Fusion also paid British intelligence operative Christopher Steele, whose anti-Trump dossier the FBI used as primary evidence to support its request to spy on Trump campaign adviser Carter Page. In addition, I wrote last month that the Obama White House invited Ukrainian law enforcement officials to a meeting in January 2016 as Trump rose in the polls on his improbable path to the presidency. The meeting led to U.S. requests to the Ukrainians to help investigate Manafort, setting in motion a series of events that led to the Ukrainians leaking the documents about Manafort in May 2016. The DNCs embassy contacts add a new dimension, though. Chalupa discussed in the 2017 Politico article about her efforts to dig up dirt on Trump and Manafort, including at the Ukrainian Embassy. Federal Election Commission records show Chalupas firm, Chalupa & Associates, was paid $71,918 by the DNC during the 2016 election cycle. Exactly how the Ukrainian Embassy responded to Chalupas inquiries remains in dispute. Chalys statement says the embassy rebuffed her requests for information: No documents related to Trump campaign or any individuals involved in the campaign have been passed to Ms. Chalupa or the DNC neither from the Embassy nor via the Embassy. No documents exchange was even discussed. But Andrii Telizhenko, a former political officer who worked under Chaly from December 2015 through June 2016, told me he was instructed by the ambassador and his top deputy to meet with Chalupa in March 2016 and to gather whatever dirt Ukraine had in its government files about Trump and Manafort. Telizhenko said that when he was told by the embassy to arrange the meeting, both Chaly and the ambassadors top deputy identified Chalupa as someone working for the DNC and trying to get Clinton elected. Over lunch at a Washington restaurant, Chalupa told Telizhenko in stark terms what she hoped the Ukrainians could provide the DNC and the Clinton campaign, according to his account. She said the DNC wanted to collect evidence that Trump, his organization and Manafort were Russian assets, working to hurt the U.S. and working with [Russian President Vladimir] Putin against the U.S. interests. She indicated if we could find the evidence they would introduce it in Congress in September and try to build a case that Trump should be removed from the ballot, from the election, he recalled. After the meeting, Telizhenko said he became concerned about the legality of using his countrys assets to help an American political party win a U.S. election. But he proceeded with his assignment. Telizhenko said that as he began his research, he discovered that Fusion GPS was nosing around Ukraine, seeking similar information, and he believed they, too, worked for the Democrats. As a former aide inside the general prosecutors office in Kiev, Telizhenko used contacts with intelligence, police and prosecutors across the country to secure information connecting Russian figures to assistance on some of the Trump organizations real estate deals overseas, including a tower in Toronto. Telizhenko said he did not want to provide the intelligence he collected directly to Chalupa and instead handed the materials to Chaly: I told him what we were doing was illegal, that it was unethical doing this as diplomats. He said the ambassador told him he would handle the matter and had opened a second channel back in Ukraine to continue finding dirt on Trump. Telizhenko said he also was instructed by his bosses to meet with an American journalist researching Manaforts ties to Ukraine. About a month later, he said his relationship with the ambassador soured and, by June 2016, he was ordered to return to Ukraine. There, he reported his concerns about the embassys contacts with the Democrats to the former prosecutor generals office and officials in the Poroshenko administration: Everybody already knew what was going on and told me it had been approved at the highest levels. Telizhenko said he never was able to confirm whether the information he collected for Chalupa was delivered to her, the DNC or the Clinton campaign. Chalupa, meanwhile, continued to build a case that Manafort and Trump were tied to Russia. In April 2016, she attended an international symposium where she reported back to the DNC that she had met with 68 Ukrainian investigative journalists to talk about Manafort. She also wrote that she invited American reporter Michael Isikoff to speak with her. Isikoff wrote some of the seminal stories tying Manafort to Ukraine and Trump to Russia; he later wrote a book making a case for Russian collusion. A lot more coming down the pipe, Chalupa wrote a top DNC official on May 3, 2016, recounting her effort to educate Ukrainian journalists and Isikoff about Manafort. Then she added, More offline tomorrow since there is a big Trump component you and Lauren need to be aware of that will hit in next few weeks and something Im working on you should be aware of. Less than a month later, the black ledger identifying payments to Manafort was announced in Ukraine, forcing Manafort to resign as Trumps campaign chairman and eventually to face criminal prosecution for improper foreign lobbying. DNC officials have suggested in the past that Chalupas efforts were personal, not officially on behalf of the DNC. But Chalupas May 2016 email clearly informed a senior DNC official that she was digging into Manafort and she suspected someone was trying to hack into her email account. Chaly over the years has tried to portray his role as Ukraines ambassador in Washington as one of neutrality during the 2016 election. But in August 2016 he raised eyebrows in some diplomatic circles when he wrote an op-ed for The Hill skewering Trump for some of his comments on Russia. Trumps comments send wrong message to world, Chalys article blared in the headline. In his statement to me, Chaly said he wrote the op-ed because he had been solicited for his views by The Hills opinion team. Chalys office also acknowledged that a month after the op-ed, President Poroshenko met with then-candidate Clinton during a stop in New York. The office said the ambassador requested a similar meeting with Trump but it didnt get organized. Though Chaly and Telizhenko disagree on what Ukraine did after it got Chalupas request, they confirm that a paid contractor of the DNC solicited their governments help to find dirt on Trump that could sway the 2016 election. For a Democratic Party that spent more than two years building the now disproven theory that Trump colluded with Russia to hijack the 2016 election, the tale of the Ukrainian Embassy in Washington feels just like a speeding political boomerang. John Solomon is an award-winning investigative journalist whose work over the years has exposed U.S. and FBI intelligence failures before the Sept. 11 attacks, federal scientists misuse of foster children and veterans in drug experiments, and numerous cases of political corruption. He serves as an investigative columnist and executive vice president for video at The Hill. Follow him on Twitter @jsolomonReports. When the rules come into force June 1, priests and nuns will be required for the first time to report abuse accusations to church authorities. Dioceses will be given a year to set up offices or other systems for receiving abuse complaints while offering protection for victims and whistleblowers. Perhaps most significantly, a new method will be used to investigate complaints of abuse or coverup against bishops and other higher-ups an attempt to address one of the scandal-plagued churchs long-standing trouble spots. The Supreme Court this week charged 10 opposition officials, including Zambrano, with treason and other high crimes. The pro-government legislature known as the Constituent Assembly has also lifted the immunity from prosecution granted to lawmakers for seven of the 10 opposition officials, also including Zambrano. Some of those officials who have had their immunity lifted have sought sanctuary in other embassies in Caracas. But Zambrano had refused to do so and continued to participate in National Assembly sessions. May 09, 2019 " Information Clearing House " - The great Indian writer Arundhati Roy wrote, The trouble is that once you see it, you cant unsee it. And once youve seen it, keeping quiet, saying nothing, becomes as political an act as speaking out. Theres no innocence. Either way, youre accountable. There were numerous times in my life when I saw it and felt the strongly reinforced foundations of my Zionist upbringing eventually crack wide open and ultimately turn to dust, but perhaps nothing more deeply touched me and cemented my perspective than a trip to Gaza in November 2014. For a brief but remarkable week and a half, I had the amazing privilege of being part of a health delegation to this small strip of historic Palestine that is one of the most crowded places on earth because its population is literally sealed in by the Israeliswith the assistance of the Egyptians. To be there just two months after Israels murderous 2014 war on the people of Gaza was to catch a glimpsethrough the painful stories I heard and the overwhelming destruction I witnessedof the grotesque horror of that 51-day war. The bombed-out structures were everywhere, the grief universal, the trauma intense. Rawya, who translated for a training that I did in Gaza with 15 school counselors, shared with me over a hot cup of tea, Scared our turn might be next, my husband and I sat our four children, ages nine through fifteen, down, and we and our kids each talked about what we would do if a bomb hit and we were the only survivor of our family. I felt I needed to have that conversation because the possibility seemed so real, and as a mother, I needed to know that our children had a plan. She, the counselors, the children they see, andaccording to the counselors, its safe to sayeveryone in Gaza is traumatized. When Israeli jets were heard overhead one evening while we were in Gaza City, the restimulated fear was palpable. On the way into Gaza City, we saw haunting skeletons of homes, people living in bombed-out buildings, and mosques, hospitals, and factories reduced to rubble. Etched in my mind probably forever will be what we witnessed in heavily bombed civilian neighborhoods. Its hard to find words that even begin to describe the utter devastation. Tired Of The Lies And Non-Stop Propaganda? Get our FREE Daily Newsletter Palestinian people were living in makeshift structures of cardboard and blankets, surrounded by rubble. Even though Id seen these images online, somehow the impact of witnessing families squatting next to what was everything they had owned and what in a matter of seconds had been absolutely wiped out took my breath away, as did a large busted-up slab of concrete with names spray-painted on it of family members buried under the mounds of debris, a woman sitting on the rubble staring vacantly off into the distance, and a wedding party celebrating amid ravaged buildings. In a refugee camp, a vivacious Palestinian woman named Reem told me she just couldnt think about the future any more. All I have, she said, is today and thats OK as its filled with opportunities to help people. Reem was opening centers in some of Gazas most destroyed areas, centers where children play, read, sing, learn French, plant seeds in paper cupsto maybe get a taste of what a normal childhood might be like. Nothing is normal in Gaza. A decade of siege and three wars has ravaged the economy, snuffed out the lives of thousands of people, wrecked the environment, and ripped apart peoples hopes that things will someday get better, that maybe there is a future. Yasser, a gentle soul and the executive director of Gazas Community Mental Health Program, lost 28 members of his extended family in the 2014 war. No one in Gaza was spared from knowing someone who was killed or injured in the brutal and relentless Israeli assault. Yasser said his family speaks of 28 empty chairs. Mohammeds family is now 10 people fewer. One of the deceased was a young girl who was rescued after somehow surviving for 10 days under a massive pile of concrete and rebar, only to die in the hospital two days later. Her name was Yasmin. I cant get Yasmin and the thought of what her last days were like out of my mind, Mohammed said, tears wetting his shirt. Everyone yearns for the borders to open so they might be able to breathe, work, travel, study abroad, or get medical care not available in Gaza due to the shortage of everything caused by the Israeli siege. Still, most assert they would return. Just like a fish cant survive out of water, we cant live out of Gaza for too long. At some point, we need to return, said Walaa, a young woman with two graduate degrees who was unemployed in Gazas shattered economy. Imad, a nurse who works full time and had not been paid for over a year, invited me to meet his wife and eight children in their extremely modest but comfortable apartment. When asked how they survive with no income and so many mouths to feed, Imad explained that everyone in Gaza does what they can to help others out, since they are all pretty much in the same boat. He then shrugged his shoulders and pensively posed the question we heard so often: What can we do? Its striking that 2 million Palestinians in Gaza are imprisoned in an area that is only 25 miles long and 5 to 8 miles widesmaller than the Portland metro area. A marvelous facilitator, who does support groups for children in Gaza, invited me to a group she runs for 5-year-olds who lost their homes, family members, their innocenceand so much morein the bombings. I sat in the circle with the children as they chose happy or sad faces to represent how they felt. One girl said she took a sad face because her grandfather was killed by a bomb. Others took sad faces because they had bad dreams. The facilitator told me that her own 10-year-old daughter pleaded with her during the war, Dont leave me alone. I want to die together. So, theres more than enough stress, grief, pain, and sadness to go around, but there is also a remarkable amount of love, generosity, and determination. Ramadan, who translated for one of my workshops and who is working on a Ph.D. in psychology, pointed out that just as lots of folks may only appreciate their health when they become sick, Palestinians may feel the lack of a homeland more intensely, having so brutally lost it. Others have a physical homeland, a place they live in or visit. Our homeland lives in our hearts, Ramadan told me over coffee to the sound of the waves beating on the shore. While walking through an area of Gaza that was heavily bombed by the Israelis, witnessing homes, apartment buildings, and a school totally leveled, I was approached by a middle-aged man who politely offered me a large manuscript covered with the dust of a blown-up neighborhood. When I asked him what it was and why he wanted to give it to me, he motioned for me to follow him across the street to a huge mound of debris. As we climbed up the pile, avoiding broken glass, twisted rebar, and busted up concrete, he pulled out his phone and showed me a picture of quite an attractive and well-maintained homehis home. He explained that we were standing on that home and that absolutely everything had been destroyed except for the manuscript, his doctoral dissertation, which was a literary critique of the works of Ezra Pound and T.S. Eliot. This professor, who had lost it all, was insisting that I take what remained of a life. I will never know for sure why. Maybe it was Palestinian hospitality that required him to give this guest something, and that was all he had to give. Perhaps he wanted me to take it to a safe place, as he well knew that nothing was safe in Gaza. Possibly this professor was saying that in spite of all the destruction the Israelis could unleash at will, there is one thing they can never destroy: ideasnot only about Pound and Eliot, but also about the restoration of justice to a people who have suffered unimaginable brutality and dispossession. I continue to struggle with many things now, not the least of which is finding words to adequately express the intensity of the experience of getting to know, in some small but profoundly meaningful way, a number of unforgettable and beautiful people in Gaza, and catching a glimpse into the unbelievably harsh reality of their lives. Its difficult to make sense of how the occupation and siege of Gaza, which is slowly but very steadily crushing the life of 2 million people, can be happening, and how the world is doing so little to stop it. Imads question, What can we do? echoes in my head. Some of what I can do is clear: a stronger commitment to, as Arundhati Roy says, speaking out, asserting the Palestinian struggle more broadly and more often, as we Americans are so deeply complicit in the ongoing Israeli occupation of Palestinian land. More of what I can do will surely emerge with time as I continue to think about the people I met who want nothing more than to live. In Gaza, I left behind friends and a piece of my hearta heart that was broken many years earlier by the conflict between what I had been raised to believe about Israel and what I had learned was the darker reality of Israel. Years ago, I sincerely believed I was being more than open-minded when I tried to hold to the conviction that there were two legitimate and distinctly different narrativesone Jewish and one Palestinian, two fundamentally irreconcilable claims to the same piece of land, and that was why the conflict was so unresolvable. But what was really unresolvable was the battle that thunderously raged in my head and even more vigorously in my heart. You see, I had become a progressive on every issue, except one. I marched for civil rights, womens rights, LGBTQ rights, everyones rights, and an end to war. But when it came to Israel-Palestine, I was extraordinarily torn up. Even if what my Palestinian friends were telling me were true, how could I turn my back on my own people and my own upbringing, especially after the thousands of years of suffering that Jews had endured? Wasnt the Jewish history of pogroms, anti-Semitism, and the horrors of the Holocaust at least as compelling, if not more so? After all, as someone named after a Holocaust victim, I was a link in a long chain. How could I contribute to undermining the Jewish struggle to reconstruct a post-Holocaust decimated people and the state of Israel that had so recently come into existence? With time and introspection, my dual narrative world began to fray at the edges, and eventually completely unravel. Probably the crushing blow came when a Palestinian friend asked me why Jews have such a hard time incorporating the Palestinian experience into the Jewish understanding of history. I didnt quite grasp his question and, with trepidation, asked him to explain. He challenged me to see not two separate conflicting narratives, but one historyone history of what actually happened. That question and challengeand exploring and reexploring their answers took me on one of the deepest and most rewarding journeys of my life. It was the struggle of fundamentally wrestling to reconcile my politics around Israel-Palestine with my bottom-of-my-heart core values, and ultimately understanding, in the very essence of my being, that my true liberation as a Jewish person is now intrinsically bound up with the authentic liberation of the Palestinian people. My sense of freedom and wholeness will only be achieved when every Jewand every Palestinianis free. Zionism imprisons not only Palestinian bodies but Jewish minds as well. I came to comprehend that the wonderful Jewish tradition of Justice, justice thou shalt pursue required me to take a stand with others of goodwill, including many Jews, to support my Palestinian sisters and brothers in their pain, struggle, and resistance. The breakthrough for me was the ultimate realization that standing up for the Palestinian people was not turning my back on my own people. Rather, in supporting the Palestinian struggle for freedom, I was upholding Judaisms highest values and reclaiming them for myself, infor mea profoundly new and personally meaningful way. Nelson Mandela said, We know too well that our freedom is incomplete without the freedom of the Palestinians. Excerpted from Palestine and my Journey of Self-Discovery, an essay by Ned Rosch in Reclaiming Judaism from Zionism: Stories of Personal Transformation, edited by Carolyn L. Karcher. Published 2019 by Olive Branch Press, an imprint of Interlink Publishing Group. Copyright Carolyn L. Karcher and contributors. This article was originally published by " Yes " - Do you agree or disagree? Post your comment here A bird's-eye view of Beijing Daxing International Airport, which is scheduled to open on Sept 30. [Photo by Li Xiaofan/For China Daily] Beijing Daxing International Airport plans to welcome four planes on test flight next Monday, Beijing Youth Daily reported. Air China, China Eastern Airlines and China Southern Airlines will dispatch flagship models 747-8, A359 and A380, respectively. Meanwhile, Xiamen Airlines will send a Boeing 787 to take part in the test flight. This comes nearly three and a half months after the airport welcomed the first test plane on Jan 22. According the plan, these airplanes should arrive at the airport before 10 am. After ground clearance, these planes will take off from runway 01L/19R, 17R/35L and 17L/35R. The whole process will take about one hour. Currently, preparatory work for the Daxing airport is in full gear, the newspaper said. The new airport's four runways and related taxiways passed acceptance inspection on April 28-30. Daxing airport's flight inspection, which is a prerequisite for all new airports before-entering service, was completed on Feb 24, 19 days ahead of schedule. The inspections, which lasted for 34 days, started on Jan 22 and were supposed to last until March 15 covering the airport's four runways, six landing systems, seven lighting facilities and other services. Beijing Daxing International Airport, Beijing's second major civil airport, is scheduled to be completed on June 30 and open on Sept 30. It aims to meet the country's surging air service demand and relieve Beijing Capital International Airport from tight flight pressure. The new airport, which is located at the junction of Beijing's Daxing district and Langfang, a city in neighboring Hebei province, is expected to handle 45 million passengers annually by 2021 and 72 million by 2025. May 09, 2019 " Information Clearing House " - The architects of regime change in Venezuela and Iran know only too well that their interventions never bring about anything beyond chaos, destruction and death. Our Overlords are not deluded, pie-in-the-sky dreamers but clear-sighted, rational merchants of nightmares. Where we see endless despair and violence as a result of their meddling, they see a surge in share prices. Blackwater CEO Erik Prince will unlikely get his wish to send 5,000 of his mercenaries to Caracas, but his re-named and re-branded companies are benefiting nevertheless from the constant media exposure. The murderers-for-hire on his payroll will always find employment in hot spots specifically created to attract further investment in armaments, and the logistics necessary to convey them wherever a superpower or an oil rich Gulf state requires an armed response to the peasantry, or one of its leaders. Capitalisms internal logic of growth at any cost means that demand for the products and services corporations provide are not only met with an endless production of surplus, but created (often violently) where a lack of demand for them threads to impede its cancerous spread. Its the logic of Big Pharma with its stake in the junk and fast food industries: Funnel feed them breadsticks and cheesecake so that they seek out your advertised medication during a cardiac event while watching The View. Human misery is a growth industry. The short-term gains that come with worsening it override any long-term benefits fo ameliorating avoidable suffering with sustainable, non-violent solutions. Even if US weapons and personnel have so far been prevented from entering Venezuela, their merchants will profit from Wall Street speculators cashing in on the headlines. After all, they dictated them to the media corporations whose parent companies also have a stake in the creation of failed states and the weaponry they need to sustain them. Tired Of The Lies And Non-Stop Propaganda? Get our FREE Daily Newsletter Our Overlords seldom have any regrets for the disastrous consequences of their economic and military objectives past or present. On the contrary, they celebrate all these setbacks, seeing them as just another way to increase demand for more sophisticated financial and military technology. If anything, the ever-growing list of bombed, sanctioned, embargoed, debt-ridden, occupied states and territories are ideal testing ground for products and services that will eventually be used against Americans in their own country. Humanitarian interventions are not doomed to fail but programmed and predestined to yield undesirable outcomes. Whether its IS or a reignited Cold War, the news is always good for those invested in global instability. Where you see a quagmire, they see a fertile swamp teeming with business opportunities for a private militarys war supply chain. Even a failed attempt to separate a democratically elected leader from his countrys oil supply will eventually enrich the chronically inept plotters, as they apply the same strategy elsewhere with an endless supply of government funds earmarked for their foreign policy disasters. An extreme weather event and the subsequent floods that killed thousands was not the deadliest phenomena to strike Mozambique in recent years. Similarly disastrous was Erik Princes recent project to weaponize its loan-purchased fishing trawlers as a defense against the Somali pirates who threaten his companys marine routes. Needless to say, the impoverished South African nation was scammed into signing off on a shady (and ruinous) loan package for fishing boats that concealed the purchase of actual warships for Princes private navy. The costs incurred by outfitting these high speed Trojan horse vessels with state-of-the-art naval equipment meant that there was no money left to operate the actual fishing trawlers among the fleet: Give a man his own fishing boat and he will become an indolent, dependent socialist for life. Teach a man to pay for your own private naval fleet, and he will spend the rest of eternity trying to pay back the debt he has incurred on your behalf. For whatever its worth, (billions of dollars to be siphoned directly into Princes company coffers ) Mozambiques northern province of Cabo Delgado is home to some of the worlds largest gas reserves. Coincidentally, (wink, wink) it is also where armed attacks on civilians necessitate the costly services for security provided by the former Blackwater chief. With foreign investors out of the way, seeing too much risk in the now violent region, Prince has seized ownership of the countrys now collateralized hydrocarbon resources. The now natural disaster hit country will repay loans for the security and military intelligence Princes companies provide with dividends from the resources now under his control. It might be tempting at this point to blame corruption on the part of Mozambiques leaders in the sordid deal making responsible for the countrys death spiral into debt and instability. However, such an easy explanation doesnt take into account the deliberate shock tactics used against them to make hasty, uniformed decisions to deal with every immediate crisis that Prince and Co. manufacture as added pressure to their strong-arming techniques. Heavily armed (By guess who?) militias running roughshod over the territories containing mostly undeveloped gas fields have a way of convincing a an already weakened government of the necessity of relying on loan-purchased mercenary personnel and equipment rather than its own low-tech military forces. It has also emerged that Princes company weaponized other types of low cost machinery meant for a food-based industry, this time outfitting low flying agricultural crop dusters into aerial assault planes to be sold to countries looking to terrorize their own peasantry with aircraft built for that specific purpose. The UKs recently fired Defense Minister Gavin Williamson had similar ideas for transforming lowly farm equipment like tractors into deadly machines capable of firing off rounds of ammunition. Perhaps he had a vision of Theresa May running though those now famous fields of wheat in which case we can forgive him for this apparent lapse in judgement. Once again, capitalism proves the worse an idea is, the more chances it has to fail spectacularly well for the class it serves. The high risk/high yield strategy of unleashing chaos and channeling it where it best serves corporate and geopolitical interests forms the basis of neoliberalisms repeat and falsely repented offenses. In the official narratives that explain these failures in crocodile tear hindsight, mission creep is often cited as a way to excuse the oft-repeated and self-defeating actions of our neoliberal warlords. A more accurate description would be mission acceleration a thoroughly deliberate expansion of an interventions stated objectives beyond its scope to bring in more players from a wider array of sectors, and more complications. In fact, the more unintended consequences the better. What better way to confuse the public and convince them of yet another crisis at hand requiring an immediate military response to a previous military action brought about by a military intervention that was the result of a centuries old military blunder? Naturally, the result is an increase in political will to address countless challenges on multiple fronts all requiring massive injections of money: The military to overthrow a leader, the banks to re-organize the no longer sovereign nations economy, the corporations to attract investment, the NPOs to invite donations the NGOs to make it all seem above board and humanitarian. And of course, the private contractors to carry out the dirty work when the legal restraints on these legitimate organizations place temporary obstacles to their outright plunder. Where you see untold trillions of dollars being sucked into the vortex of an overflowing cesspit, they see an ATM flush with freshly minted cash. Until one percent more accurately represents the wealth and power of those who now possess 99% of it, theres no nice or sustainable way to do business. If a New Green Deal isnt paid for by a 99% percent tax rate for billionaires or a 99% reduction in military spending, talk of it is just more carbon emissions from the ruling class. Hot air is already a commodity that can be auctioned at a profit on the no-futures market. Somewhere an armed loan officer is strong-arming a polar bear into taking on crippling debt to bear the cost of its own extinction. The only Green Deal we should support is a permanent soylent-based solution to capitalism. " Counterpunch " - Do you agree or disagree? Post your comment here There were some raised eyebrows last week when Qantas revealed that the tenure of its chief executive, Alan Joyce, had been extended by at least three years. As it happens, the "extension" of his tenure, which has already run for more than a decade, wasnt a formal or binding one. The airline's new chairman, Richard Goyder, asked Joyce for a commitment and Joyce, who has an open-ended contract that could be terminated by either party at short notice, agreed. The query over that agreement was a simple one. If Joyce were to stay the course and see out the next three years (and there is nothing to say he wont remain in place beyond 2022), he will have been CEO for at least 14 years. Qantas CEO Alan Joyce will remain in place until at least 2014. Credit:Trevor Collens In an era of relatively brief CEO tenures and high turnover the average tenure of chief executives is a bit over five years, and last year one in five CEOs of the top 200 companies lost or relinquished their jobs a decade in the role is an outlier. One of the nation's most prominent investors has slammed the competition watchdog's controversial decision to block TPG Telecom and Vodafone Hutchison Australia's $15 billion merger, claiming the government influenced the regulator to protect the national broadband network. Robert Millner, chairman of Washington H Soul Pattinson and a TPG board member, said the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission's decision had left him "shocked and disappointed". Soul Patts has a 25 per cent shareholding in TPG. Robert Millner is chairman of Washington H Soul Pattinson. Credit:Peter Braig "It's very disappointing, I'm amazed the decision was handed down. I don't think there's any basis for it at all other than the government trying to protect the NBN. I don't know what else to think," Mr Millner said. The regulator's decision was embarrassingly and inadvertently published on Wednesday while the market was still trading. TPG's share price fell by 13.5 per cent to $6.07 after the blunder, wiping about $1 billion from its market value. The share price fell 0.3 per cent on Thursday to $6.05. Coal is "not essential to human progress", Rio Tinto chairman Simon Thompson has declared in the face of pressure from activist shareholders over the mining giant's response to climate change. Mr Thompson made the remarks in response to comments at the company's annual general meeting by Julien Vincent, executive director of the environmental finance group Market Forces. Forget coal: Rio Tinto chairman Simon Thompson. Credit:LUKE MACGREGOR "In the case of coal, there are viable alternative sources of energy, that do not produce greenhouse gases. So we would argue that coal is not essential to human progress," Mr Thompson said. But it was a different story with steel. "In the case of steel, there are no obvious substitutes in a whole range of applications," he said. Corporate documents show that ICT has two co-owners and co-directors: Mr Di Bella and his wife Gianna. ICT's sales are destined for RFG's roastery in Brisbane, which makes beans sold to independent cafes, and for RFG's cafe brands. If he is making the purchasing decision at Di Bella, what kind of commercial terms is he getting for ICT? said one company source, pointing out the RFG's franchisees are contractually bound to buy the product. My concerns are that an individual in a position of influence is benefiting personally from supplying products to people who are already doing it really, really tough. It is claimed Mr Di Bella reacted explosively when issues around the quality of ICT beans emerged in middle of 2018. Several people have told The Age and SMH they witnessed Mr Di Bella yell at staff at RFG's Brisbane roasting plant, and warn them that someone is going to get thrown out of a window if ICT's beans continued to fail quality assurance tests. RFG owns Gloria Jean's, Michel's and other well known brands. Credit:Jessica Shapiro Several staff formally complained about Mr Di Bellas behaviour. He was subsequently put in charge of RFG's entire coffee bean business. Asked about the alleged incident, Mr Di Bella said: "That's not true." RFG declined to comment on the issue. With aspirations of overseas growth, RFG's coffee bean business is one of the company's most important divisions as it fights for survival. The company, which also owns the Crust Pizza and Brumby's Bakery chains, has been in crisis since late 2017 when The Age and SMH revealed that many of its franchisees were struggling to survive and raised questions about the sustainability of its business model. That has seen RFGs share price crash from $4.40 to 20 today, slicing its market value from $800 million to $37 million. Loading RFG says that its combined Di Bella Coffee operation is Australia's second largest coffee roaster, supplying 3000 cafes and recording total sales of $53.7 million last financial year, when RFG posted a $306 million loss. Insiders questioned why Mr Di Bella was leading Di Bella Coffees push into the United States while also being involved in his own American roasting business, Abbotsford Road, based in New York. Mr Di Bella has been consulting to RFG on coffee matters since it bought his business and said on Thursday the RFG board told him that in the new job he would be "empowered and in a position to run the business". He said there was no conflict of interest between his positions at RFG and ICT, and was not involved in the latter's day-to-day operations. ICT has had to compete with other bean suppliers for RFG contracts since July 2017, Mr Di Bella said, with RFG given transparency around ICT's pricing because of his position consulting to the company. There is no conflict as long as everythings transparent. It doesnt matter who owns the business, you follow procedures and systems. Phillip Di Bella "Everything is transparent, which means they get to see the buy price, the cost price and the margins," he said. There is no conflict as long as everythings transparent. It doesnt matter who owns the business, you follow procedures and systems. RFG said it had policies in place to ensure conflicts of interest were managed appropriately including competitive tendering with multiple suppliers evaluated for availability, pricing, security and quality. "All transactions between International Coffee Traders and RFG are carried out on a transparent and commercial basis, at arms length," she said. RFG said that ICT had supplied about 7 per cent of its green bean purchases this financial year. Seven per cent of the 3.6 million kilograms of coffee beans RFG bought last year, sold at an estimated average price of around $5 a kilogram, would easily surpass a $1 million in sales for ICT. Mr Di Bella said the total was much lower than that but declined to provide a number. RFG said Mr Di Bella was leading the coffee bean business and was an "integral part of the leadership team", but had not been made a director of RFG or any of its subsidiaries. RFG did not alert investors to the departure of Di Bella Coffees former chief executive Darren Dench, a member of its senior executive management. The company said it was "not assessed as information warranting market disclosure". Mr Di Bella started his coffee business in Brisbane in 2002 and by 2014 had amassed a $100 million personal fortune, according to the BRW Rich List. The Labor Party will on Friday promise the largest surplus in Australian budget history while giving itself scope to deliver $200 billion worth of tax relief over next decade. Shadow treasurer Chris Bowen will argue Labor's plans to close a series of tax loopholes will not only enable the ALP to offer extra spending on hospitals and education but give it room to start offering tax relief from 2023-24. Chris Bowen will on Friday forecast larger surpluses and scope for $200b worth of tax relief as part of Labor's final election costings. Credit:AAP Releasing the costing of all its policies, the ALP estimates it will deliver larger surpluses than those on offer from the Coalition through the next four years of budget forward estimates and over the coming decade. It believes it will have a surplus of 1 per cent of GDP in 2022-23. The Coalition, in last month's budget, forecast a surplus in that year of $9.2 billion or 0.4 per cent of GDP. Labor frontbencher Anthony Albanese has accused Greens voters of not even knowing the location of the controversial Adani coal mine, as he slammed an "increasingly extreme" groupthink he said was damaging Australian politics. Mr Albanese made the remarks during a revealing discussion with Liberal senator Arthur Sinodinos on Wednesday night in which both insiders made candid observations about the election and their party's strategies. "They don't know where Adani is": Labor frontbencher Anthony Albanese in a lively discussion about groupthink. Credit:Alex Ellinghausen Senator Sinodinos said it would be "remarkable" if the Coalition was competitive enough on May 18 that the results could not be declared that night, but the government could cling on to some marginal seats because the sitting MPs are more popular than the Liberal brand. "We've found in NSW, for example, some of our so-called 'key seat' members have higher favourability than the party, which could be a useful buffer in certain circumstances," he said. A report released this week by Community Council of Australia found half of women in Australia dont feel safe walking alone at night, the highest rate of any OECD country. The disparity in how safe men feel and how safe women feel is also higher in Australia than anywhere else in the OECD. The explanation for this is not that violence against women is worse in Australia than it is anywhere else in the OECD; the report suggested it has more to do with womens perception of risk and their trust that their community will believe them and act to protect them. Another report has found women feel unsafe walking home after dark. Credit:Shutterstock Take, for example, the recent laws enacted in France that make it illegal to sexually harass women in public spaces. The law covers any behaviour that undermines the victims dignity, is degrading or humiliating or creates a situation that is intimidating, hostile or offensive. Police have uncovered a sophisticated fraud syndicate in which a south-west Sydney family day-care business allegedly made fraudulent claims against the federal government's childcare subsidy schemes for children who never existed and for others, whose parents allegedly sold their identities to service the scheme. Detectives have made a number of arrests as part of an investigation into family day-care fraud. Credit:NSW Police Properties linked to family home day-care business Red Roses Family Day Care Pty Ltd were targeted on Wednesday in mass raids, stretching from Fairfield to the Illawarra, including one property that masqueraded as a day-care centre despite being without electricity for 22 days in February and never housing any children. Investigators are still working through the machinations of the complex scheme, however it is expected that further enquiries will allegedly reveal financial claims made under a number of false representations, such as for children with false identities and others with genuine identities, but who never attended one of the day-care facilities. On the outside the syndicate created a business that appeared to be provide legitimate childcare services, however that was not the case, as police surveillance has allegedly revealed. Physically the phones very much resemble their more expensive counterparts, but if you compare them directly you'll notice the differences. While the flagship is glass and aluminium, the less expensive phones have a polycarbonate unibody in the same two-tone finish. It feels great to the touch, but it is clearly plastic. Meanwhile the front is covered by Asahi Dragontrail Glass, not Gorilla. Neither change makes a big aesthetic difference, but they mean the phone could be more easily marked or scratched. Of all the step-down smartphone models, including those from Apple and Samsung, Google's entries probably strip the most out (and at $649 and $799 respectively, they certainly offer a decent cash saving), but they also come closest to parity with the flagship. In fact I've been using a Pixel 3a XL for a week, and most of the time I noticed no difference between it and my usual Pixel 3 XL , despite the $550 difference in price. With its just-announced (and just-released) Pixel 3a and Pixel 3a XL, Google has attempted to deliver the hallmarks of its flagship phone line an excellent camera, a smooth and streamlined version of the latest Android, and a growing collection of helpful AI-powered tricks for a significantly lower price. The Pixel 3a pair feature OLED displays at a little above Full HD resolution, at 5.6 inches or 6 inches respectively, and they're some of the nicest you'll find on any phone. You get the same calibration options as the Pixel 3, so the choice is yours to go for an accurate look or jack up the colours, and the always-on display works just the same too. Although the screen is a slightly different shape (with larger top and bottom bezels), and the XL model does not feature a cutout notch whatsoever, you're essentially getting the same display quality as a flagship phone, which is excellent. Perhaps even more impressively, the outstanding Pixel 3 camera experience has made it across to these new devices wholly intact. The single, optically stabilised 12.2MP main camera does the work of multiple lenses thanks to a lot of smart software, making for excellent HDR stills, arguably the best portrait mode images around and up to 4K video. There's also the amazing Night Sight for low-light shots, Playground for messing around in AR with licenced characters like Detective Pikachu and Iron Man, and Lens for doing instant Google Searches based on what you're looking at. As far as the primary camera goes it's identical to the Pixel 3, which makes this the best camera to ever feature on a mid-range device. The phone's selfie game is the only part of the camera experience that's had an obvious downgrade, as you can no longer take ultra wide front-facing images. Instead of one regular lens and one very wide lens, you just get a single shooter that's a little wider than usual. Battery life was, in my testing, excellent. The 3a and 3a XL feature bigger batteries than the flagship, and likely aren't as power hungry thanks to less powerful internals. I was making it to the end of the day with 50 per cent still in the tank. There's an 18W fast charger in the box, which isn't cutting edge but it will fill the phone from zero to 100 in around two hours. Seoul: North Korea on Thursday fired two suspected short-range missiles from the country's western area, South Korea's military said, the North's second weapons launch in the last five days and a possible warning that nuclear disarmament talks with Washington could be in danger. The South's Joint Chiefs of Staff said that the weapons fired flew 420 kilometres and 270 kilometres, respectively. It said it's working with the United States to find out more details, such as the type of weapons the North fired. North fired "multiple unidentified short-range projectiles" into the sea earlier on Saturday. Credit:KCNA The South's military said earlier at least one projectile was launched from the Sino-ri area of North Pyongan Province, an area known to host one of North Korea's oldest missile bases where a brigade operates mid-range Rodong missiles. It said later the launch was made from the province's Kusong town, about 40 kilometres from Sino-ri, where the North conducted its first successful flight test of the Hwasong-12 intermediate range missile in May 2017. The launch comes as US Special Representative for North Korea Stephen Biegun visits South Korea, and hours after the North described its firing of rocket artillery and an apparent short-range ballistic missile on Saturday as a regular and defensive military exercise. The North also ridiculed South Korea for criticising those launches. 'Won't capitulate': China warns as Trump threatens new tariffs By Al Jazeera May 09, 2019 " Information Clearing House " - China has rejected accusations made by the United States of backtracking in trade talks and warned it would not "capitulate to any pressure" as the two sides head into make-or-break negotiations. "The US has assigned a lot of labels, such as backtracking, going back on one's word, and so on. Lots of promises have been foisted on China," Chinese commerce ministry spokesman Gao Feng told reporters in Beijing on Thursday. "China will not capitulate to any pressure, and we have the determination and ability to defend our own interests," Gao said, warning that it "has already prepared for all possible situations". China has rejected accusations made by the United States of backtracking in trade talks and warned it would not "capitulate to any pressure" as the two sides head into make-or-break negotiations."The US has assigned a lot of labels, such as backtracking, going back on one's word, and so on. Lots of promises have been foisted on China," Chinese commerce ministry spokesman Gao Feng told reporters in Beijing on Thursday."China will not capitulate to any pressure, and we have the determination and ability to defend our own interests," Gao said, warning that it "has already prepared for all possible situations". Tired Of The Lies And Non-Stop Propaganda? Get our FREE Daily Newsletter The US has raised the stakes with plans to increase tariffs on $200bn in Chinese goods from 10 to 25 percent at 12:01am (04:01GMT) on Friday, prompting Beijing to vow to hit back with "necessary countermeasures". Gao's comments came as a Chinese delegation led by Vice Premier Liu He was set to hold talks in Washington on Thursday and Friday. The talks are aimed at salvaging the trade deal that appeared to be unravelling after US President Donald Trump accused China of breaking it and promised to impose more tariffs if no agreement is reached. 'They broke the deal' At a rally in Florida on Wednesday, Trump said Beijing would pay if no agreement is reached. "I just announced that we'll increase tariffs on China and we won't back down until China stops cheating our workers and stealing our jobs, and that's what's going to happen, otherwise we don't have to do business with them," Trump told a cheering crowd. "They broke the deal," he added. "They can't do that. So they'll be paying. If we don't make the deal, nothing wrong with taking in more than $100bn a year." Al Jazeera's Adrian Brown said there was now a "grim" realisation in Beijing that more US tariffs on Chinese goods are inevitable. "There is so little time left for Chinese negotiators to avoid the tariffs, now talks do resume in Washington on Thursday but they are due to last just two days - just two days to try to achieve a deal that can somehow prevent this trade dispute from escalating," he said from Beijing. "There could be a possible surprise but I think it's more likely that there is unlikely to be a deal in the short term, I think the question is will the two sides continue negotiating, if they do, it will be enough to stabilise markets." Trump's comments triggered a round of selling in Asian and European markets. Trade negotiations are a long process and it is normal to have disagreements, Gao said, adding that China is willing to continue talks with the US to resolve the trade dispute. While the US wants to reduce the scale of its trade deficit with China, it is also seeking better protection for American intellectual property and more market access in China for US companies. Gao described accusations about Chinese firms stealing tech secrets as unreasonable and said they were not based on facts. A tit-for-tat tariff war The world's two largest economies have been embroiled in a tit-for-tat tariff war since July 2018 over US demands that the Asian powerhouse adopt policy changes that would, among other things, better protect American intellectual property and make China's market more accessible to US companies. Expectations were recently riding high that a deal could be reached, but a deep rift over the language of the proposed agreement opened up last weekend. Reuters news agency, citing US government and private-sector sources, reported on Wednesday that China had backtracked on almost all aspects of a draft trade agreement, threatening to blow up the negotiations and prompting Trump to order the tariff increase. Washington is demanding Beijing make sweeping changes to its trade and regulatory practices, including protecting US intellectual property from theft and forced transfers to Chinese firms, curbs on Chinese government subsidies and increased American access to China's markets. Trump also has sought massive hikes in Chinese purchases of US farm, energy and manufactured products to shrink a gaping US trade deficit with China. This article was originally published by " Al Jazeera " - Do you agree or disagree? Post your comment here ==See Also== Trump: China Tariffs to Increase to 25% Friday : President Donald Trump plans to to implement the previously delayed tariff increases on Chinese goods on Friday, raising tariffs from 10% to 25% on $200 billion worth of goods. President Donald Trump plans to to implement the previously delayed tariff increases on Chinese goods on Friday, raising tariffs from 10% to 25% on $200 billion worth of goods. China threatens retaliation over Trump's new tariffs: Dow drops as this week's sell-off accelerates after Trump says China 'broke the deal' Note To ICH Community We ask that you assist us in dissemination of the article published by ICH to your social media accounts and post links to the article from other websites. Thank you for your support. Peace and joy Search Information Clearing House === Click Here To Support Information Clearing House Your support has kept ICH free on the Web since 2002. Click for Spanish , German , Dutch , Danish , French , translation- Note- Translation may take a moment to load. In accordance with Title 17 U.S.C. Section 107, this material is distributed without profit to those who have expressed a prior interest in receiving the included information for research and educational purposes. Information Clearing House has no affiliation whatsoever with the originator of this article nor is Information ClearingHouse endorsed or sponsored by the originator.) Privacy Statement The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Information Clearing House. "That's only in the Panhandle you can get away with that statement," Trump replied, smiling and shaking his head. "Only in the Panhandle." "Shoot them!" someone yelled from the crowd, according to reporters on the scene and attendees. A roar rose from the crowd of thousands of Trump supporters in Panama City Beach, Florida, on Wednesday night as President Donald Trump noted yet again that Border Patrol agents can't use weapons to deter migrants. "How do you stop these people?" he asked. Loading Though Trump didn't explicitly endorse the suggestion to shoot migrants, his joking response raised concerns that he was tacitly encouraging extrajudicial killings and brutality against asylum seekers and undocumented immigrants. The President has long been accused of endorsing acts of violence through his incendiary rhetoric and allusions to the potential for violence at his rallies, a charge that members of his administration deny. Reached for comment by The Washington Post on Trump's reaction at the Florida rally, Matt Wolking, deputy communications director for the Trump campaign, pointed to a response he had given to many critics on Twitter. The President, he noted in his tweet, had said specifically that Border Patrol wouldn't use firearms to stop migrants from entering the country. The incendiary remark from the crowd came as Trump, standing before roughly 7000 people who had gathered at an outdoor amphitheatre in the hurricane-damaged Gulf Coast town, railed against what he described as an "invasion" of migrants attempting to enter the United States. Often, he claimed, only "two or three" border agents will contend with the arrival of "hundreds and hundreds of people." "And don't forget, we don't let them and we can't let them use weapons," Trump said of the border agents. "We can't. Other countries do. We can't. I would never do that. But how do you stop these people?" Washington: Facebook quickly rejected a call from co-founder Chris Hughes on Thursday to split the world's largest social media company in three, while lawmakers urged the US Justice Department to launch an antitrust investigation. Facebook has been under scrutiny from regulators around the world over data sharing practices as well as hate speech and misinformation on its networks. Some US lawmakers have pushed for action to break up big tech companies as well as federal privacy regulation. "We are a nation with a tradition of reining in monopolies, no matter how well intentioned the leaders of these companies may be. Mark's power is unprecedented and un-American," Hughes, a former college roommate of Facebook Chief Executive Mark Zuckerberg, wrote in a lengthy New York Times opinion piece. Facebook's social network has more than 2 billion users. It also owns WhatsApp, Messenger and Instagram, each used by more than 1 billion people. Facebook bought Instagram in 2012 and WhatsApp in 2014. Dean of the Ivy College of Business, and part of the committee to select the new dean of the College of Agriculture and Life Science David Spalding presents the first candidate for the position. Apple has always highlighted the fact that all its products and services are built with user privacy in mind. The company values the privacy of its users like no other. However, theres also the fact that the high price of Apple products essentially puts them out of reach for many thereby putting a luxury tag on the whole privacy aspect. Googles CEO Sundar Pichai has now taken a jibe at Apple for this very thing in an op-ed written for the New York Times. Pichai says in the op-ed that privacy cannot be a luxury good which can only be available to people who can afford to buy premium products and services. While Pichais statements are definitely true, it comes at a time when Google announced a number of privacy-focused announcements at Google I/O 2019. Facebook also did something similar last month when Mark Zuckerberg promised a version of Facebook thats more respectable to a users privacy. Our mission compels us to take the same approach to privacy. For us, that means privacy cannot be a luxury good offered only to people who can afford to buy premium products and services. Privacy must be equally available to everyone in the world. In the past, Apples CEO Tim Cook has frequently made remarks of how Google invades user privacy and mines their collected data to create new features and to earn money. After all, Googles primary money-making business is still to show targeted ads to its users. While these statements are true, it is clear that Google realizes the importance of privacy in this day and age and is looking to turn a new leaf in that aspect. We Want to Hear From You It is definitely quite ironic to see Googles CEO take a jibe at Apple for anything thats related to privacy. The companys recent efforts towards user privacy are commendable, but is it enough for you to trust the company with your data? Drop a comment and let us know! [Via New York Times As in Canada, the issue of closet indexing is important because it erodes the value that investors get. But according to Edmans and Gosling, it creates an additional problem by hindering effective stewardship. By holding companies to account for long-term value and insulating them from short-term pressure, investor stewards can help improve saver returns and long-term company performance improve. According to the piece, academic research demonstrates that active and index strategies both play a role in stewardship. Index funds can be effective at generalized stewardship, which entails implementing best practices such as eliminating takeover defences and increasing director independence that can be applied across all companies. Active investors, meanwhile, can take on more in-depth stewardship issues like strategy, capital allocation, and intangible investments. Edmans and Gosling said that specialized stewardship can only be done by investors with a thorough understanding of a company. They added that a large stake is necessary to convince an investor that the costs of monitoring and engagement will not go to waste. That means active funds must be truly active, with each name they own being a conviction holding that they are committed to steward. One way to encourage the large stakes needed for effective research is to consider active share, which assesses the degree to which a fund deviates from the benchmark. Based on academic research, active share also positively predicts a funds performance. The two authors proposed that funds be required to disclose their fees adjusted for their active share: the more active share a fund has, the more it can justify itself as an active strategy, and the higher the fee its able to charge. The U.S. Securities & Exchange Commission voted Thursday to ease accounting requirements for smaller public companies, with the SEC to collect comment from the public over the next two months prior to any final regulation. Under the SEC proposal, public companies with less than $100 million in annual revenue would not be required to have an outside auditor attest to the effectiveness of their internal financial controls, a key requirement of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. Companies would still be required on an ongoing basis to perform their own assessments on the adequacy of their internal controls, but would be spared the cost of paying to have an auditor certify that litmus test. In a statement Thursday, SEC Chairman Jay Clayton said the proposed rule builds on the Jumpstart Our Business Startups Act of 2012 in sparing companies some of the costs of complying with accounting regulations. The JOBS Act was designed to spur more companies to tap the public markets for financing as a way to fund growth. I believe this scaled approach has proven to be appropriate for smaller reporting companies and again reflects the perspective that one-size regulation of public companies does not fit all, Clayton said last August at a Nashville, Tenn. conference. For a biotech company with routine financial statements and no revenue, the money that goes to pay for (an) ... auditor attestation report could instead be used to hire new scientists to advance life-enhancing or life-saving developments. Adding 36 percent to audit costs? Many companies invoke an emerging companies clause in the JOBS Act that provides exemptions for some public companies from the auditor attestation requirement, including those that have held an IPO in the past five years but which have yet to exceed caps on revenue, growth and some classes of securities. In Connecticut, that number includes Trevi Therapeutics, a New Haven company that held a $55 million IPO this week as it develops a treatment for a condition called pruritus which can cause itchiness and chronic coughing; the Norwalk ginger beer company Reeds, which is moving on Friday its stock listing to the Nasdaq National Market; and Diamond S Shipping whose shares began trading in late March on the New York Stock Exchange after the Greenwich-based firms formation in a merger. In its own annual report filed last week with the SEC after going public last June, the Stamford-based Sactional couch designer Lovesac described the process of creating those internal controls as time-consuming, costly and complicated, in a boilerplate disclosure for investors. In a 2016 study published in the Journal of Accounting and Economics, researchers at the University of Washington and Georgetown University calculated the certification requirement as adding 36 percent on average to the audit costs of companies. As much as its own rule-making, the SEC relies on the accounting industry to put forward its own standards, including through the Financial Accounting Standards Board and Private Company Council overseen by the Norwalk-based Financial Accounting Foundation. A spokesman told Hearst Connecticut Media that FASBs mission does not extend to addressing disclosure of controls in SEC documentation. Other standards-making organizations include the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, with AICPAs Connecticut affiliate having its offices in Rocky Hill; and the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board in Washington, D.C. The SEC did not create an immediate link for commentators to file suggestions, with the commissions rule-making process stretching anywhere from three months to three years or more, depending on the complexity of the changes being contemplated. The commission currently has about 75 proposed rules under deliberation, including one put out last week for public comment to address how companies report financial details of the businesses they acquire. Receiving input from investors, startups, entrepreneurs and other market participants who have firsthand experience with investing, raising capital and our regulatory framework is extremely important to make sure we get it right, Clayton said Wednesday in testimony before a subcommittee of the U.S. Senate Committee on Appropriations. Alex.Soule@scni.com; 203-842-2545; @casoulman STAMFORD - Steve Wolfe says theres something you should know about reporting a problem to the citys online service center, FixIt Stamford. It isnt always Stamford that fixes it. And if another entity is responsible, its up to you to find it. Wolfe recently complained that a Stratford company, Burns Construction, which worked on his Springdale street for months, had done a number on his yard. They were storing their equipment on my lawn, Wolfe said. They put down metal plates and parked their trucks there. They put these wooden four-by-fours there. They left a huge pile of sand. They brought down a fence. They tore up my yard. Their trucks ran over my sprinkler system. Wolfe emailed FixIt Stamford about the problem on April 19. That day he got a return email from someone at FixIt saying his request had been routed to the appropriate department. He was assigned a reference number. On April 25 someone from FixIt forwarded Wolfe information from Eversource, the utility company. The email explains that the utility investigates complaints then contacts the resident with its results, usually within 30 days. It instructs residents to fill out a complaint at www.eversource.com or to call the Eversource Claims Department at 844-685-4475. He was confused, Wolfe said. Hed thought the road work was a city project for two reasons. First, police officers who directed traffic around the project told him Burns Construction was replacing sewer pipes. Second, hed been contacted by a very polite city engineer who told him the city would be working near his home and wanted to stage equipment on his corner lot, Wolfe said. The engineer told him the city would compensate him for use of his yard, Wolfe said. But then Burns Construction showed up and began work that didnt look like anything the city engineer had described, Wolfe said. I had no idea what they were doing, he said. It could be sewer, it could be water, it could be something else. I really didnt know. So on April 29 he again wrote to FixIt Stamford. On May 6 he received a reply: Thank you for contacting us. We are sorry to hear of this unfortunate situation. The damage seems to have been committed by a private construction company who was contracted by Eversource or Aquarion. You can contact Burns Construction directly ... . So Wolfe called Burns. I tried one number. Nobody answered. From that I got another number. Nobody answered. I think I called a third number, and I sent an email, Wolfe said. I didnt hear a peep. He then called the citys Citizens Service Center, 203-977-4140, and the woman he spoke to tried to help, Wolfe said. She said to try filing a claim with Eversource. I got busy at work and didnt get to it, Wolfe said. I was so frustrated. As it turns out, he would not have gotten an answer from Eversource. Contacted Wednesday, an Eversource spokesman told a reporter to call Aquarion Water Co., which Eversource bought two years ago. Aquarion spokesman Peter Fazekas confirmed that Burns Construction was working for the water company. That was our project, he said. We were in that area for quite a bit of time putting in water mains. Fazekas said Aquarion will have the contractor reach out to Wolfe. If were doing construction and something gets damaged, we will repair it, Fazekas said. Residents can visit www.aquarion.com to find a customer-service number and email address, he said. For Wolfe, an answer. Finally. Its so confusing, he said. Arthur Augustyn, special assistant to Mayor David Martin, said FixIt Stamford can only address internal problems. If it goes outside the city, we dont have the jurisdiction, Augustyn said. Its a grey area people dont quite understand. In Wolfes case, We put him in touch with Eversource, Augustyn said. Thats all we can do. FixIt Stamford, launched in July, is being used more and more every day, he said. The No. 1 request, by far, among the 125 types of complaints received, is for pothole repairs, which usually are fulfilled in three to five days, Augustyn said. Other requests, particularly those that involve zoning violations, can take a couple of months. FixIt Stamford has 28,000 accounts, he said. Creating an account ensures that someone from FixIt can reply, Augustyn said. Were still getting a handle on how people use it, he said. Were working on making it more user-friendly. Wolfe said filing a citizen-service request shouldnt be so hard. But he was right about the city project on his street. City Engineer Lou Casolo told the Stamford Advocate Wednesday that someone from his office met with Wolfe about a year ago to obtain a temporary easement for a wall stabilization project along the Springdale Brook, which runs on the edge of Wolfes yard. The wall project has not yet begun, Casolo said. Time will tell what happens with Wolfes complaint. Fazekas pointed out a possible problem. The complaint hinges on where, exactly, Burns Construction parked trucks and stored materials. If it was on the city right-of-way, they can do that, Fazekas said. Your front yard isnt all your yard - a portion is city property. acarella@stamfordadvocate.com; 203-964-2296. Hearst Connecticut Media file photo WESTPORT The spring Novachip paving program will begin with the pre-milling of roads on May 13, Public Works Director Peter Ratkiewich announced Thursday afternoon. Actual paving will take place one week later on May 20. WASHINGTON, May 8 (Xinhua) -- The White House announced on Wednesday that the United States is imposing sanctions with respect to the iron, steel, aluminum, and copper sectors of Iran. "Today, I am signing an executive order to impose sanctions with respect to Iran's iron, steel, aluminum, and copper sectors, the regime's largest non-petroleum-related sources of export revenue," U.S. President Donald Trump said in a statement. "Tehran can expect further actions unless it fundamentally alters its conduct," the statement added. Brian Hook, U.S. special representative for Iran, also said at a conference on the same day that Washington would continue the "maximum pressure" against Iran until Tehran changes behavior. The sanction constituted the latest move of U.S. "maximum pressure" campaign against Iran, which came on the one-year mark of the Trump administration's decision of exiting the Iran nuclear deal in May last year. Tehran has been taking a hard-line stance and urging national unity and solidarity in the face of resolute U.S. threats. In a televised speech on Wednesday, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said that Iran would begin to build up stockpiles of its enriched uranium and heavy water. "It doesn't mean that Iran leaves the nuclear agreement, known as Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA)," Rouhani said. Iran will wait for 60 days to start negotiations with the signatories of the nuclear deal over its economic interests enshrined by the nuclear deal, including its oil sales and international banking transactions, said Rouhani, adding that if Iran achieves no results after 60 days, it will adopt two more counter-measures to the U.S. withdrawal from the deal. Following the exit from the Iran nuclear deal, the Trump administration has kept piling up pressure on Iran through a series of sanctions and designations, which have been strongly opposed and criticized by Tehran. VATICAN CITY - Pope Francis issued a groundbreaking new church law Thursday requiring all Catholic priests and nuns around the world to report clergy sexual abuse and coverups by their superiors to church authorities, in a new effort to hold the Catholic hierarchy accountable for failing to protect their flocks. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 9/5/2019 (961 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Pope Francis does the sign of the cross during his weekly general audience, in St. Peter's Square, at the Vatican, Wednesday, May 8, 2019. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino) VATICAN CITY - Pope Francis issued a groundbreaking new church law Thursday requiring all Catholic priests and nuns around the world to report clergy sexual abuse and coverups by their superiors to church authorities, in a new effort to hold the Catholic hierarchy accountable for failing to protect their flocks. The law provides whistleblower protections for anyone making a report and requires all dioceses to have a system in place to receive the claims confidentially. And it outlines internal procedures for conducting preliminary investigations when the accused is a bishop, cardinal or religious superior. Abuse victims and their advocates said the law was a step forward, but not enough since it doesn't require the crimes to be reported to police and essentially tasks discredited bishops who have mishandled abuse for decades with policing their own. It's the latest effort by Francis to respond to the global sex abuse and coverup scandal that has devastated the credibility of the Catholic hierarchy and his own papacy. And it provides a new legal framework for U.S. bishops as they prepare to adopt accountability measures next month to respond to the scandal there. From left, Malta's Archbishop Charles Scicluna, Vatican spokesman Alessandro Gisotti and Mons. Juan Ignacio Arrieta talk to journalists during a press conference to present the new sex abuse law, at the Vatican's press room, Rome, Thursday, May 9, 2019. Pope Francis issued a groundbreaking law Thursday requiring all Catholic priests and nuns around the world to report clergy sexual abuse and cover-up by their superiors to church authorities, in an important new effort to hold the Catholic hierarchy accountable for failing to protect their flocks. (AP Photo/Andrew Medichini) "People must know that bishops are at the service of the people," said Archbishop Charles Scicluna, the Vatican's longtime sex crimes prosecutor. "They are not above the law, and if they do wrong, they must be reported." The decree requires the world's 415,000 Catholic priests and 660,000 nuns to tell church authorities when they learn or have "well-founded motives to believe" a cleric or sister has engaged in sexual abuse of a minor, sexual misconduct with an adult, possession of child pornography or that a superior has covered up any of those crimes. It doesn't require them to report to police, however. The Vatican has long argued that different legal systems make a universal reporting law impossible, and that imposing one could endanger the church in places where Catholics are a persecuted minority. But the procedures do for the first time put into universal law that victims cannot be silenced, that clergy must obey civil reporting requirements where they live, and that their obligation to report to the church in no way interferes with that. The global victims group Ending Clergy Abuse, or ECA, said the Vatican shouldn't hide behind the argument that mandatory reporting to police is a problem in some countries. "The church should establish the law for reporting and justify the exception," said ECA's Peter Iseley. "Instead, they are using the exception as a pretext for not reporting sexual abuse to civil authorities and to keep abuse secret." Malta's Archbishop Charles Scicluna talks to journalists during a press conference to present the new sex abuse law, at the Vatican's press room, Rome, Thursday, May 9, 2019. Pope Francis issued a groundbreaking law Thursday requiring all Catholic priests and nuns around the world to report clergy sexual abuse and cover-up by their superiors to church authorities, in an important new effort to hold the Catholic hierarchy accountable for failing to protect their flocks. (AP Photo/Andrew Medichini) If implemented fully, though, the Vatican could well see an avalanche of abuse and coverup reports. The decree can be applied retroactively, meaning priests and nuns are now required to report even old cases of sexual wrongdoing and coverups and enjoy whistleblower protections for doing so. Previously such reporting was left to the conscience of individual priests and nuns. Canon lawyer Kurt Martens called the new law "revolutionary" by making sex abuse of minors and adults, as well as official coverups, subject to mandatory reporting. "We owe gratitude to Pope Francis for this universal law of the Church, ensuring that a victim who wishes to tell his or her story cannot be silenced," Martens tweeted. Anne Barrett Doyle of BishopAccountability praised some of the provisions but said they weren't enough, primarily because there were no sanctions envisaged for violations, and because the process remained entirely internal. Malta's Archbishop Charles Scicluna, right, is welcomed by Vatican spokesman Alessandro Gisotti as he arrives for a press conference to present the new sex abuse law, at the Vatican's press room, Rome, Thursday, May 9, 2019. Pope Francis issued a groundbreaking law Thursday requiring all Catholic priests and nuns around the world to report clergy sexual abuse and cover-up by their superiors to church authorities, in an important new effort to hold the Catholic hierarchy accountable for failing to protect their flocks. (AP Photo/Andrew Medichini) "Bishops watching bishops does not work," she said. While there are no punitive measures foreseen for noncompliance, bishops and religious superiors could be accused of coverup or negligence if they fail to implement the provisions or retaliate against priests and nuns who make reports against them. The law defines the crimes that must be reported as: performing sexual acts with a minor or vulnerable person; forcing an adult "by violence or threat or through abuse of authority, to perform or submit to sexual acts"; and the production, possession or distribution of child pornography. Cover-up is defined as "actions or omissions intended to interfere with or avoid" civil or canonical investigations. Cardinal Marc Ouellet, head of the Vatican's bishops' office, said the inclusion of sex crimes involving adults was a clear reference to cases of sexual abuse of nuns and seminarians by their superiors a scandal that has exploded recently following reports, including by The Associated Press and the Vatican's own women's magazine, of sisters being sexually assaulted by priests. The pope mandated that victims reporting abuse must be welcomed, listened to and supported by the hierarchy, as well as offered spiritual, medical and psychological assistance. Pope Francis speaks during a meeting with the dioceses of Rome, at the Vatican Basilica of St. John Lateran, in Rome, Thursday, May 9, 2019. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino) The law says victims can't be forced to keep quiet, even though the investigation itself is still conducted under pontifical secret. And in a novelty, the law requires that if victims request it, they must be told of the outcome of the investigation again a response to complaints that victims are kept in the dark about how their claims were handled. Victims and their advocates have long complained that bishops and religious superiors have escaped justice for having engaged in sexual misconduct themselves, or failed to protect their flocks from predator priests. Bishops and religious superiors are accountable only to the pope, and only a handful have ever been sanctioned or removed for sex abuse or coverup, and usually only after particularly egregious misbehaviour became public. Last summer, the scandal over ex-Cardinal Theodore McCarrick epitomized the trend: McCarrick rose to the heights of the Catholic hierarchy even though he had credible allegations of sexual misconduct with adults against him that the Vatican had received. Francis defrocked McCarrick this year after a U.S. church investigation determined he sexually abused minors as well as adult seminarians. The new procedures call for any claim of sexual misconduct or coverup against a bishop, religious superior or Eastern Rite patriarch to be reported to the Holy See and the metropolitan bishop, who is a regular diocesan bishop also responsible for a broader geographic area than his dioceses alone. Unless the metropolitan bishop finds the claim "manifestly unfounded," he must immediately ask permission from the Vatican to open a preliminary investigation and must hear back from Rome within 30 days a remarkably fast turnaround for the lethargic Holy See. The metropolitan bishop then has an initial 90 days to conduct the investigation, though extensions are possible. The law makes clear he can use lay experts to help, a key provision that is already used in many dioceses. And it recommends that a special fund be set up to pay for the investigations, particularly in poorer parts of the world. 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. Once the investigation is over, the metropolitan sends the results to the Vatican for a decision on how to proceed. The new law requires Vatican offices to share information throughout the process, since an untold number of cases have fallen through the cracks, thanks to the silo-like nature of the Holy See bureaucracy. The procedures published Thursday are likely to form a key legal framework for U.S. bishops when they meet in Baltimore June 11-13 to adopt new accountability procedures, though it will certainly force them to scrap their existing proposals and make them conform to the new law. The head of the U.S. conference, Cardinal Daniel DiNardo, said the law was a "blessing" and that the conference was already working on how to implement it. But the law is essentially a variation of a counterproposal to DiNardo's planned measures made last year by Chicago Cardinal Blase Cupich, envisaging using the metropolitan bishop aided by lay experts to investigate bishops. The law takes effect June 1 for an initial three years. Dioceses must establish the reporting system and confirm it is in place to the local Vatican embassy by June 1, 2020. George and Melinda Wood, parents of murder victim Christine Wood, are surrounded by supporters Wednesday as they talk to reporters about the verdict. LOS ANGELES - Attorneys general from 33 states on Wednesday urged Congress to approve a proposal intended to fully open the doors of the U.S. banking system to the legal marijuana industry. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 8/5/2019 (961 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. LOS ANGELES - Attorneys general from 33 states on Wednesday urged Congress to approve a proposal intended to fully open the doors of the U.S. banking system to the legal marijuana industry. Most Americans live in states where marijuana is legally available in some form. But most banks don't want anything to do with money from the cannabis industry for fear it could expose them to legal trouble from the federal government, which still considers marijuana illegal. "This is simple: not incorporating an $8.3 billion industry into our banking system is hurting our public safety and economy," said California Attorney General Xavier Becerra, whose state is the nation's largest legal pot shop. The bill "would reward taxpayers and small and local licensed businesses who play by the rules," he said in a statement. The conflict between state and federal law has left many growers and sellers in the burgeoning pot industry in a legal dilemma, shutting them out of everyday financial services like opening a bank account or obtaining a credit card. It also has forced many businesses to operate only in cash sometimes vast amounts making them ripe targets for crime. 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 pending bill would allow pot businesses to access loans, lines of credit and other banking services, while sheltering financial institutions from prosecution for handling pot-linked money. In a letter to congressional leaders, the attorneys general also argue that under existing law, authorities are less able to track potential financial crimes and it is more difficult for businesses to pay and for states to collect tax deposits. The number of banks and credit unions willing to handle pot money is growing, but they still represent only a tiny fraction of the industry. One of the bill's sponsors, Rep. Ed Perlmutter, a Colorado Democrat, said the endorsement from the state officials "underscores the need to respect states' rights on this issue and make our communities safer by allowing the marijuana industry and related businesses access to the banking system." Along with California, states signing the letter included attorneys general from Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Connecticut, Colorado, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, and Wisconsin. It was also signed by attorneys general from the District of Columbia, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. TORONTO - Brookfield Asset Management Inc. reported its first-quarter profit fell compared with a year ago. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 9/5/2019 (961 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Brookfield Asset Management's Senior Managing Partner and CEO Bruce Flatt attends the company's AGM in Toronto on Wednesday May 6 , 2015. Brookfield Asset Management Inc. reported its first-quarter profit fell compared with a year ago. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Chris Young TORONTO - Brookfield Asset Management Inc. reported its first-quarter profit fell compared with a year ago. 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 alternative asset manager, which keeps its books in U.S. dollars, says it earned US$1.26 billion or 58 cents per diluted for the quarter ended March 31. That compared with a profit of $1.86 billion or 84 cents per diluted share in the first three months of 2018. Revenue totalled $15.21 billion, up from $12.63 billion. Funds from operations slipped to $1.05 billion or $1.04 per share compared with $1.17 billion or $1.16 per share a year ago. In March, Brookfield announced a deal to acquire a roughly 62 per cent of global investment manager Oaktree Capital Management. The two companies together will have roughly $475 billion of assets under management. Companies in this story: (TSX:BAM.A) Michael Kwan can't help but think about what life was like on a daily basis for his great-great-grandfather in the 1860s, working 12-hour days in California's Sierra Nevada mountain range on the Transcontinental Railroad that would reshape the American landscape. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 8/5/2019 (961 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. In this Tuesday, May 7, 2019, photo, Michael Kwan poses for a photograph in Salt Lake City. Kwan can't help but think about what life was like on a daily basis for his great-great-grandfather in the 1860s, working 12-hour days in California's Sierra Nevada mountain range on the Western portion of the Transcontinental Railroad that would reshape the American landscape. Kwan and other Chinese Americans are pushing for these workers some of whom lost their lives to get more than a token mention in history books as several days of celebrations kick off this week in Utah to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the completion Transcontinental Railroad. (AP Photo/Rick Bowmer) Michael Kwan can't help but think about what life was like on a daily basis for his great-great-grandfather in the 1860s, working 12-hour days in California's Sierra Nevada mountain range on the Transcontinental Railroad that would reshape the American landscape. "You're not talking about 12 hours sitting at a desk or sitting on a bench. You're talking about 12 hours of lifting and hammering and blowing things up," said Kwan, a judge in Salt Lake City. "And I complain when my trainer says we're going to add 10 pounds." Kwan and other Chinese Americans are pushing for these workers some of whom lost their lives building the Western portion of the railroad to get more than a token mention in history books. This week marks 150 years since the completion of the Transcontinental Railroad, and several days' worth of events are planned. Kwan, who is president of the Chinese Railroad Workers Descendants Association, and his group are participating as part of a drive to be more involved in railroad celebrations and long-term projects. The group will be in Promontory Summit, Utah, Friday for a photo reenactment of the hammering of the final golden spike of the Transcontinental Railroad on May 10, 1869. And Margaret Yee, whose ancestors helped build the railroad, will tap a ceremonial spike alongside Utah Gov. Gary Herbert and a descendant of Union Pacific's chief engineer on the project at an event Thursday in Ogden, Utah. "We haven't really pushed the envelope and insisted that these contributions be recognized until fairly recently," Kwan said. The descendants group is raising money for a statue of a Chinese railroad worker at Golden Spike National Historic Park. Like previous years, they are sponsoring this week's Golden Spike Conference, which includes theatrical productions and panels, including one with Tony-winning playwright David Henry Hwang. Michael Solorio feels fortunate that his family was able to determine that his maternal great-great-great-grandfather, Lim Lip Hong, worked as a foreman on the Central Pacific Railroad while thousands of other workers remain nameless. A junior at Stanford University, it's not lost on him that he is attending a school founded by Central Pacific Railroad president Leland Stanford, who profited from Chinese labour. "It feels kind of weird to know that this school stands because of the labour of my great-grandfather and many others like him put in," Solorio said. "Even after all this work was put in to make the railroad, there continued to be real intense racism against the Chinese." The 20,000 Chinese immigrants who worked on the Central Pacific portion, from California to Utah, between 1864 and 1869 accounted for about 90% of that railroad's workforce, said Stanford University professor Gordon Chang. Other groups including the Irish, members of The Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and former slaves navigating Reconstruction also helped work on the entire railroad. Chinese labourers were often the most exploited. They contended with racism, pay disparity and dangerous tasks in grueling terrain. At an elevation as high as 7,000 feet (2,133 metres) on the Sierra Nevada range, they were ordered to blast through solid granite using nitroglycerine. Some suffered brutal deaths in explosions. Avalanches also took lives. "Their bodies weren't recovered till next spring. Sometimes they would be uncovered as the snow melted with their work tools still in their hands," Chang said. There is no definitive data on the death toll among Chinese workers. While some reports back then suggest about 150 died, Chang believes deaths numbered in the hundreds. In his book, "Ghosts of Gold Mountain," he points to newspaper articles that mention the shipping of remains or "bone boxes" to China and Chinese groups in America keeping their own census records. Clamouring for recognition for them has gotten louder in recent years. In 2014, the U.S. Department of Labor inducted the Chinese railroad workers into their Hall of Honor. New York Rep. Grace Meng, a Democrat, introduced a resolution in March that would honour them and renewed a call for an honorary postage stamp. Chang has gone further in ensuring Chinese labourers and their sacrifices are embedded in the historical narrative as director of the Chinese Railroad Workers in North America Project. The project has amassed a treasure trove of oral histories, letters, periodicals and other materials since 2012. Chang said he was surprised when hundreds of people attended a project showcase at Stanford. "I think it indicates there's a tremendous interest and curiosity and hunger for this," Chang said. Max Chang, a board member of the Golden Spike foundation that's been helping plan anniversary events, has been giving volunteer presentations on Chinese workers at elementary and middle schools throughout Utah. The Salt Lake City native is not a descendant, but it always bothered him that Chinese labourers were "a really small footnote" in history classes. 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. "I had to do a lot of research to make sure I got the story right," he said. "I'm just a parent who wants to make sure my children and grandchildren will eventually know the story of the Chinese railroad worker." He is in talks with Utah education officials about making the lessons a permanent part of history classes. Kwan, of the descendants group, said education can help dispel the tendency for people to see Asian Americans as not fitting the image of what is "American." "We've been here for more than 150 years and we have contributed every step of the way," Kwan said. "That's the dream: Have people stop asking us where we're from." ___ Follow Terry Tang on Twitter at www.twitter.com/ttangAP TORONTO - The Globe and Mail has offered its employees a voluntary severance program in an effort to cut costs. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 9/5/2019 (961 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. The Globe and Mail newspapers are seen Friday December 1, 2017 in Ottawa. The Globe and Mail has offered its employees a voluntary severance program in an effort to cut costs. Globe employees were told Wednesday that the newspaper is looking to cut $10 million annually from its operating budget. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Adrian Wyld TORONTO - The Globe and Mail has offered its employees a voluntary severance program in an effort to cut costs. Globe employees were told Wednesday that the newspaper is looking to cut $10 million annually from its operating budget. A Globe spokeswoman says employees have until May 29 to enrol in the voluntary program and the company will decide in July if involuntary layoffs are necessary. The union that represents media workers at the Globe called it a "sad day" in a bulletin to staff on Wednesday. "Less than a week after proudly celebrating its award-winning journalism at the National Newspaper Awards quality journalism that is only made possible because of the talent and dedication of its reporters, editors, visual journalists, ad revenue staff and others the employer has decided to drastically cut staff," wrote the union's unit chair Mason Wright. At the industry awards ceremony held in Toronto last week, the Globe won 10 out of 21 categories. This is the fourth time the newspaper has offered a voluntary buyout since 2009. 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 Globe and Mail last offered voluntary severance to its employees in 2016. At the time, it offered voluntary buyouts to 40 of its approximately 650 staff in a bid to "right-size the business as it adjusts to market forces." The newspaper also offered a voluntary buyout in 2013, when 60 staff chose to leave. Prior to that, the Globe and Mail in 2009 offered buyouts as part of a plan to cut about 10 per cent of its workforce, which amounted to 80 jobs at the time. The Globe and Mail is wholly owned by the Woodbridge Company Ltd., a private holding company that acts as the primary investment vehicle for Toronto's billionaire Thomson family. A subsidiary of the Globe and Mail holds an investment in The Canadian Press as part of a joint agreement with Torstar and a subsidiary of Montreal's La Presse. KETCHIKAN, Alaska - A new group concerned about the possibility of diminished state ferry service in southeast Alaska will focus on ways to sustain the system. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 8/5/2019 (961 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. KETCHIKAN, Alaska - A new group concerned about the possibility of diminished state ferry service in southeast Alaska will focus on ways to sustain the system. Members of the group based in Ketchikan attended a Rotary 2000 meeting Tuesday, The Ketchikan Daily News reported Wednesday. The group intends to communicate with state officials about maintaining and improving the Alaska Marine Highway System, said retired Ketchikan shipyard director Doug Ward. He plans to meet with community and business leaders to find people committed to the process. "If we don't step in, it'll be like so many other transportation plans that happened in the past," he said. "We end up with a consultant's plan instead of a constituents' (plan.)" Former Republican Alaska Gov. Frank Murkowski spoke at the meeting and said ferries are both a state and regional issue. Southeast Alaska needs to be unified in its message about the marine highway system to the current administration, Murkowski said. "Some services might be picked up," Murkowski said. "But the private industry has given no indication they want this." 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. Republican Gov. Mike Dunleavy did not provide funding for the system beyond Oct. 1 in the operating budget presented to the state Legislature in February, Murkowski said. "Because if you just leave it to be done by somebody, you're going to get that kind of a piecemeal; maybe it'll last partially next year and the worst thing is to try and rebuild it from nothing," Murkowski said. ___ Information from: Ketchikan (Alaska) Daily News, http://www.ketchikandailynews.com ___ Information from: Ketchikan (Alaska) Daily News, http://www.ketchikandailynews.com When Exchange Income Corp. (EIC) acquired Perimeter Aviation in 2004 the first acquisition for what is now a billion-dollar diversified corporation the company promised the airlines founder, Bill Wehrle, that it would not treat the First Nations communities that it flies into as just another customer. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 8/5/2019 (961 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. When Exchange Income Corp. (EIC) acquired Perimeter Aviation in 2004 the first acquisition for what is now a billion-dollar diversified corporation the company promised the airlines founder, Bill Wehrle, that it would not treat the First Nations communities that it flies into as just another customer. EIC chief executive officer Mike Pyle said, "Bill made me swear to him certain things about how we treat First Nation communities... that we werent going to come in and just take whatever we can." MARTIN CASH / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS Moncton Flight College CEO Mike Tilley, left, with Timothy (Tik) Mason of St. Theresa Point First Nation, a student at the college who is the first recipient of the Bill Wehrle Scholarship. EIC has kept that in mind and operates a number of community-building programs, and when Wehrle died in 2015, EIC decided to set up a scholarship in his name. To be eligible for the Bill Wehrle Scholarship, students must identify as Indigenous, hold a Grade 12 diploma and have an active interest in the field of aviation. The first recipient, Timothy (Tik) Mason from St. Theresa Point First Nation, spoke at EICs annual meeting in Winnipeg on Wednesday. Mason chipped away at earning his pilots licence for about five years, taking time off to make more money to afford the training. Hes got his commercial pilot licence and is now enrolled in a one-month instructors program at Moncton Flight College (MFC), which EIC also owns, so that he can build up enough experience and flight hours as an instructor to qualify to fly for Perimeter, which is his goal. "St. Theresa Point is only accessible by air in the summer," Mason said, adding that having pilots from the communities that the airline serves "is not only a good thing for Perimeter, its good for the community." "On the social side, First Nations youth on the reserves can see a role model. It can be something they can look forward to, to pull then away from negative things. If they are looking for what to do, they can now imagine that being a pilot is a possibility." As the inaugural recipient of the scholarship, Mason is the poster child for an even larger effort on the part of EIC and its half-dozen airlines to recruit and train more pilots. And ideally, EIC wants to recruit more pilots and technical staff from the communities that its airlines operate in. (In addition to Perimeter, EIC also owns Calm Air, Keewatin Air, Bearskin Airlines and Newfoundland-based Provincial Aerospace, and has a partnership with Wasaya Airways.) Airlines and industry observers have warned of a global pilot shortage that is expected to get worse. EIC companies, including MFC and its airlines, employ about 600 pilots. In an effort to help recruit, train and retain pilots, EIC has launched an integrated training program called Life in Flight with MFC that helps provide student loans, while also guaranteeing both a pathway to employment with one of its airlines and forgiveness of $25,000 of the loan after five years of employment. MFC CEO Mike Tilley said the integrated program is going to help a lot of people who would otherwise not be able to enter the industry. "This whole access-to-funding piece that we launched today is going to be a game-changer for a lot of people, especially people like Tik," Tilley said. "It can be an expensive proposition." David White, EICs executive vice-president of aviation, said that to his understanding, it is the most comprehensive pathway program offered by any company in Canadas airline industry. The program includes a guarantee of a position as an instructor at MFC, which helps the pilots gain sufficient flying hours to qualify to fly a commercial plane. This is followed by guaranteed employment with one of EICs airlines. 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 difference with our program is that as candidates are accepted, they go on to be instructors and get experience and they already know their next step is going to be with Keewatin or Perimeter or Provincial Aerospace," White said. MFC currently has about 500 students in two bases in New Brunswick, including 300 students from China. Another crucial piece to the program, and ultimately the long-term success of EICs regional airlines, will be its ability to recruit students from the northern communities that it operates from, including Inuit students from Nunavut, where Calm Air does a lot of business. The thinking is that pilots and staff who are from the North are more likely to want to continue working and living in the North. martin.cash@freepress.mb.ca Vern Sabeski says it was "a punch in the gut" when he heard about the 77-year-old man killed by a tornado in Alonsa last summer after the alert system failed. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 8/5/2019 (961 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Vern Sabeski says it was "a punch in the gut" when he heard about the 77-year-old man killed by a tornado in Alonsa last summer after the alert system failed. It was a punch in the gut because Sabeski's company, All-Net.ca, had just started rolling out new software for Manitoba rural municipalities that might have saved Jack Furrie's life. Alert Ready, Canada's emergency alerting system, had sent out emergency text messages last year to people in the Alonsa area warning about the tornado. The problem was the cell phone coverage was so shoddy, as it is in many rural places, that many people didn't get the alert, including Furrie. Sabeski's software ensures an emergency text message goes not just to a person's cell phone but to their land phones, too, if the person wishes, improving chances that an alert will reach more people, particularly in rural areas. "You just want to turn the clock back," Sabeski said. MIKE DEAL / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS Vern Sabeski managing partner at software company, All-Net.ca. Alert Ready System, Canada's emergency alerting system, got a nation-wide test at 1:55 p.m. on Wednesday but integrating with emergency alerts is only the start of what All-Net's software, called "Connect," can do. About 25 RMs in Manitoba have installed Connect and use it regularly to communicate with residents on everything from weekly recreation notices to garbage day changes to alerts about road washouts. Residents can go online and choose the type of notices they want to receive and how they want to receive them: by email, text message, or land phone, or any combination of the above. The system leaves a voice message on land phones if no one answers. "We now live in a world where different generations are all communicating on different mediums. 'Connect' enables a municipal government to get to everyone on all mediums," Sabeski said. The RM or Ritchot, located along Winnipeg's south border, was one of the first communities to take up the service. "I cannot stress enough how important it is to have this tool," said Ritchot Mayor Chris Ewen. "I know all our residents love it because it warns and alerts them or creates an opportunity for them to know about anything from local events happening, all the way to if there's a public works or utility concern, like shutting off the watermain for a couple of hours." MIKE DEAL / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS A television shows the test of the nation-wide emergency alert system that happened at 1:55 p.m. You can even choose to receive the RM's economic development news or water notices. On a lighter note, the RM was recently holding a food preparation workshop and "we weren't getting anyone to sign up. We put it on Connect and sold out in two hours," Ewen said. The RM expected the system to get a workout this spring when the Red River threatened a flood. Ritchot planned to use the Connect software to give notice about such things as road closures due to flooding, sandbag availability, and even evacuations. "We could pinpoint to the Howden area that has frequent flooding issues and say the community hall in Howden will have sandbags on this day, and pinpoint the homes that need those sandbags," Ewen said. "I'm so thankful we didn't have to do that," he added. About 20 per cent of Ritchot residents are signed up so far and Ewen expects that's just a start. The All-Net firm has been around for almost two decades and mainly seeks software solutions for rural municipalities. It started in Stonewall but is now based in Winnipeg. The Connect system doesn't just help people with spotty cell phone coverage but people who don't own cell phones, Sabeski said. MIKE DEAL / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS All-Net.ca. rolled out software a year ago that transmits the emergency alert system to land-line phones. This is particularly helpful for elderly people without cell phones as well as for rural people who often have shoddy cell coverage in their area. "We still have a large segment of our population that relies on landline phones. The elderly, for example, like my parents, who don't have a cell phone," he said. The software also allows the RM to pinpoint those constituents for whom certain information is pertinent. 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 the event of an emergency, a municipality with Connect can override personal settings and send out messages to everyone on all mediums including text, email, voice calls, and social media. "If you look at the way the world is changing, you see more and more a need for local government to get information out to people," Sabeski said. All-Net also has other municipal software programs like All-Net Meetings, a software for sharing information, agenda packages, documents, etc. between administrative and elected officials. Another program is called Service Tracker for accepting, tracking and managing public service requests and work orders by local governments. "Anything related to communication from a municipal perspective, that's kind of where we live," Sabeski said. bill.redekop@freepress.mb.ca NEW YORK - The executives at Uber are working hard to design a future where the company earns billions of dollars by allowing riders to summon fully automated robotaxis. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 8/5/2019 (961 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Uber and Lyft drivers carry signs during a demonstration outside of Uber headquarters Wednesday, May 8, 2019, in San Francisco. Some drivers for ride-hailing giants Uber and Lyft turned off their apps to protest what they say are declining wages as both companies rake in billions of dollars from investors. Demonstrations in 10 U.S. cities took place Wednesday, including New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, San Francisco and Washington, D.C. The protests take place just before Uber becomes a publicly traded company Friday. (AP Photo/Eric Risberg) NEW YORK - The executives at Uber are working hard to design a future where the company earns billions of dollars by allowing riders to summon fully automated robotaxis. Until then, they must rely on an army of human drivers nearly 4 million across the globe to keep the business humming. The challenge is to figure out how to make their drivers happy while also making money, and right now the company is losing on both fronts as it heads into its initial public offering on Friday the largest technology IPO of the year. Drivers complain about low wages and being classified as contract workers instead of employees, which cuts them off from the benefits that go with it. Lyft, which beat Uber to the public market last month, is dealing with similar issues. On Wednesday, drivers for both companies participated in strikes across the country, pledging to turn off their apps for hours to call attention to their plight, although it's unclear how many actually took part and the impact on customers appeared minimal. "The drivers are the one who helped Uber to be $100 billion, nobody else, and the drivers are the ones who are suffering," said Inder Parmar, 54, an Uber driver who lives in a suburb of New York City. "Uber and Lyft, they figured out how to exploit the drivers, and that's what they're doing right now." Uber is being challenged around the globe to treat its drivers as employees instead of contractors. Fighting those battles is expensive. What's more, losing those battles and being forced to classify drivers as employees would exacerbate its financial difficulties. "That would be the nightmare scenario," said Dan Ives, managing director of equity research at Wedbush Securities. "That continues to probably be the biggest threat to the business models." Although both Uber and Lyft have been growing at impressive rates, they have also been consistently losing money. Lyft, with its 1.1 million drivers and 18.6 million active riders in more than 300 markets in the U.S. and Canada, lost nearly $3 billion since its 2012 inception. Uber, which boasts 3.9 million drivers for its ride-hailing and food delivery services in more than 700 cities and 63 countries worldwide, lost nearly $8 billion over a decade. This Friday, May 3, 2019 photo shows Uber driver and NYTWA member Inder Parmar in his vehicle in New York. "The drivers are the one who helped Uber to be $100 billion, nobody else, and the drivers are the ones who are suffering," said Parmar, 54, who lives in a suburb of New York City. "Uber and Lyft, they figured out how to exploit the drivers, and that's what they're doing right now." (AP Photo/Mary Altaffer) By continuing to treat drivers as independent contractors, Uber and Lyft avoid paying for health insurance, overtime or benefits such as workers compensation, said Shannon Liss-Riordan, partner at Lichten & Liss-Riordan, who has represented drivers in the employment classification cases. "This is basically a big giveaway to these massively successful companies, often off the backs of the workers who are fueling their success," Liss-Riordan said. Both Uber and Lyft say the development of autonomous vehicles will help reduce the expense the companies pay to drivers, but experts say that won't happen anytime soon. Uber states in its IPO filing that there will be a long period of "hybrid autonomy," where autonomous vehicles will be gradually introduced while drivers continue to serve most consumer demand. But it also acknowledges that this could lead to dissatisfaction as drivers watch themselves get replaced by robots. For now, the strategy is to preserve drivers' status as independent contractors, which Uber justifies by pointing to the fact that drivers get to choose whether, when and where to provide services, are free to work for competitors and provide their own vehicles. Daniel Danker, head of Uber driver products, said he could not comment on the driver classification cases, but said Uber is constantly looking for ways to address drivers needs and in some markets gives drivers vacation pay. Uber rolled out a suite of benefits for drivers last week, which includes discounts on gasoline and car repairs and tuition reimbursement for Arizona State University Online for qualified drivers who log a certain number of trips. "I'm not trying to diminish the importance of earnings, of course they're important," Danker said. "But they are by no means the only part of the story. And I think we have an opportunity here to make good on a far more complete picture of what motivates drivers and how they want to be recognized for what they do." Despite those new benefits, dozens of drivers picketed in Atlanta and Los Angeles Wednesday. "There are drivers I know of who would love to participate and fully support the strike but they can't even afford to take a couple of hours off work because of the amount of money they are making," said Austin Gates, a part-time Uber driver who helped organize the Atlanta protest. Drivers represent one of the largest expenses for ride-hailing companies. Customers have grown accustomed to the instant availability of rides and are only willing to wait a few minutes to get in a car. At the same time, drivers also pose their own problems. Uber has been grappling with accusations of drivers sexually assaulting passengers and has introduced a number of safety features to combat that issue. Lyft, meanwhile, has been trying to distinguish itself as more trustworthy ride-hailing option. There have been some success stories for drivers in their push for higher wages. New York City passed a law requiring that transportation networking companies pay them a minimum wage of $17.22 per hour after expenses, and other cities could follow suit. That made a difference to Donald Saunderson, a former social studies teacher who drives for both Uber and Lyft in New York City. Before the wage rule, Saunderson had to work 10 to 12 hours to make $300, but now he can make that money in seven or eight hours. "It's beautiful," Saunderson said. "I'm definitely making more money, there's no doubt about it." Other drivers complain that they don't think they're making the minimum wage despite the rule. Parmer said his wages have declined over the last four years. 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. "My expenses have not been reduced by one penny, but my income has been reduced by more than 50%," he said. Lyft said drivers' hourly earnings have increased 7% over the last two years, and that over 75% drive less than 10 hours a week to supplement existing jobs. They make $20 per hour on average before deducting vehicle-related expenses, Lyft said. But drivers expect pay to get worse as Uber and Lyft face pressure from investors to cut costs. Nonetheless, the companies shouldn't forget the workers who helped built their empire, said Bhairavi Desai, executive director of the New York Taxi Workers Alliance, which represents taxi and app-based drivers. "We don't want drivers to be drowned out by even more people that will have a stake in these companies' profits," Desai said. ___ AP Writer Sanya Mansoor in Atlanta and AP photographer Damian Dovarganes in Los Angeles contributed to this report. BEIJING - The tariff war between Washington and Beijing poses one of the biggest challenges yet for Chinese President Xi Jinping, potentially exposing his political vulnerabilities at a time when the Chinese economy is already slowing. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 9/5/2019 (961 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. In this Wednesday, May 8, 2019, photo, a worker drives an electric cart past a display featuring the U.S. and Chinese flags in a special trade zone in Qingdao in eastern China's Shandong province. China said Thursday it will retaliate if President Donald Trump goes ahead with more tariff hikes in a fight over technology and trade, ratcheting up tensions ahead of negotiations in Washington. (Chinatopix via AP) BEIJING - The tariff war between Washington and Beijing poses one of the biggest challenges yet for Chinese President Xi Jinping, potentially exposing his political vulnerabilities at a time when the Chinese economy is already slowing. The U.S. effort to win concessions from China on strategic industrial policies has put Xi's own prestige on the line. It also has cast into question the ruling Communist Party's social contract with the Chinese people: keeping authoritarian, one-party rule and ruling class privileges in exchange for delivering robust economic growth, better living standards and a higher global profile for China. Chinese and U.S. officials were due to resume talks in Washington on Thursday on the dispute over Beijing's technology ambitions in meetings overshadowed by President Donald Trump's threat to raise tariffs further as of Friday. Xi needs to balance standing firm against U.S. pressure with the increasing urgency to reach a deal that would relieve battered exporters who have long underpinned growth and job creation, particularly outside the major cities. "Xi Jinping is under a lot of pressure. If he is seen as succumbing to the threats, then he will be seen as weak and failing to stand up to the Americans," said Willy Lam, a Chinese politics expert at the Chinese University of Hong Kong. The stakes are high. A failure to reach agreement in this week's talks, the 11th round of negotiations so far, would be "deeply embarrassing and somewhat damaging," for Xi, said Steve Tsang, director of the China Institute at London's School of Oriental and African Studies. It would not be catastrophic, he said. However, "it would be a different story if a sustained and escalating trade war puts the Chinese economy in a tailspin and keeps it down over a year or two." Sometimes referred to as the "chairman of everything," Xi is widely regarded as China's most powerful leader in decades. He cleared a path to remaining in office indefinitely last year when he amended the constitution to remove presidential term limits. He also has led a sweeping crackdown on corruption that netted several high-profile targets while fortifying the party's presence at all levels. Xi's signature foreign policy strategy, the trillion-dollar Belt and Road infrastructure initiative, has racked up notable successes despite complaints that it saddles participating countries with unsustainable levels of debt. He also has led a major expansion of China's military while adopting a more confrontational approach to relations with the U.S., Taiwan and countries with rival claims to territory in the South China Sea. That's raised expectations among a highly nationalistic public and party and military hardliners that Xi will stand up to the U.S. in the tariff conflict and others likely to follow. China's aggressive efforts to gain dominance in areas such as robotics and artificial intelligence lie at the heart of the dispute with the Trump administration, which highlights complaints by companies and governments over the forced transfer, or outright theft, of cutting-edge technology. Underlying Xi's great power is a sense of insecurity, reflected in the elaborate protective measures he deploys and massive spending on domestic security that exceeds even the defence budget, Tsang said. There is also great unease over the economy, which expanded at an annual rate of 6.4% in January-March, matching the previous quarter for the weakest growth since 2009. Xi "must be acutely aware that his domestic critics hold him responsible for lack of success in the talks," June Teufel Dreyer, an expert on Chinese politics who teaches political science at the University of Miami. "His actions indicate that he fears dissent from the chattering classes, and social instability from the rest," Dreyer said. Perceptions of Xi's leadership and his advisers' handling of the trade dispute were not helped by a tweet by Trump on Sunday expressing frustration at the pace of the trade talks and vowing to raise tariffs on $200 billion in Chinese products from 10% to 25%, and apply the tariffs to just about everything the U.S. imports from China. China's Commerce Ministry said Thursday that Beijing would retaliate. Early in Trump's presidency, Xi appeared adept at handling his American counterpart. That tweet appeared to catch him off-balance. 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. "Now it appears that there is no clear policy response to Trump on the trade war, and that China seems on the back foot," said Rana Mitter, a China politics and history expert at the University of Oxford. "That may open up more space for other figures at the top to make it clear that their views still matter," which could in turn, could restrict Xi's ability to rule as a "single, dominant voice," Mitter said. Xi faces time pressures from the party's inner dynamics. He is expected to call a meeting of the powerful Central Committee by October at the latest, and needs to show he has the trade dispute well in hand. Informal summer meetings among officials at the Beidaihe seaside resort could also test of Xi's leadership on the matter, Lam said. Such sensitivities appear to be affecting how officials publicly discuss the dispute. During earlier rounds of talks, officials went on the offensive, blaming the U.S. for creating tensions and disrupting global trade. Recently, the tone has been more muted, part of a pattern of clamping down on politically sensitive discussions that "suggests a desire to batten down the hatches," Mitter said. On Tuesday, Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang sidestepped a question about whether top trade negotiator and Vice Premier Liu He's plan to attend this week's talks showed China was negotiating under threat from the U.S. "We hope that the U.S. can still work together with China and meet us halfway, address each other's legitimate concerns and strive to reach an agreement of mutual benefit and win-win on the basis of mutual respect and equality," Geng said. The death of a teenager at a post-prom party held at an Airbnb rental property north of Toronto should be raising questions around safety and civic responsibility in an evolving industry, lawyers and police said Thursday as arrests were announced in the case. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 9/5/2019 (960 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. The death of a teenager at a post-prom party held at an Airbnb rental property north of Toronto should be raising questions around safety and civic responsibility in an evolving industry, lawyers and police said Thursday as arrests were announced in the case. York Regional Police said two teens are now charged with first-degree murder, and a third faces a related charge, but hundreds of potential witnesses fled the scene without helping the victim or providing information to authorities afterwards. Jahdea Paterson, 18, is shown in a handout photo from the York Regional Police Twitter page. Police say two teens have been charged with murder in a fatal shooting at a prom after-party north of Toronto last week, while a third faces a related charge. THE CANADIAN PRESS/HO-Twitter-York Regional Police-@YRP MANDATORY CREDIT Some of that reticence may stem from the fact that questions around legal liability in short-term rentals are murky at best, with everyone from insurance companies to courts still navigating a new economic reality created by companies like Airbnb, observers said. Bill Dick, a British Columbia-based personal injury lawyer who has led seminars on the risks associated with graduation and prom parties, said the shooting death of 18-year-old Rizwaan Abookbabar Wadee marks the worst-case scenario many industry watchers have been bracing for. "This is the 'what if,'" Dick said. "This is the tragedy. Someone who wants to involve themselves in the sharing economy can end up in this kind of a nightmare scenario." Wadee, of Vaughan, Ont., died in the early morning hours of May 3 while attending an unsanctioned post-prom party, said York police Const. Andy Pattenden. The teen was allegedly shot to death at a large home in Whitchurch-Stouffville, Ont., that Pattenden said had been rented through Airbnb. Airbnb called the incident a "senseless tragedy" and said safety was its priority. "There is no place on Airbnb for such an abhorrent act, which violates everything our Canadian community stands for," it said in a statement, noting that it was ready to work with local police. Pattenden said that while as many as 400 people were attending the party at one point, police arrived to find only Wadee's body lying in an upstairs bedroom of a completely empty house. "They just booked it out of there," Pattenden said. "And the 911 call came a pretty significant amount of time after the shooting had taken place. We're unclear if anyone even tried to deliver first aid to this victim ... It's disturbing." Party-goers' reluctance to help has also extended to the investigation, Pattenden said, adding police had received only one video and a handful of still photos taken at the time of the shooting. Pattenden said he's confident more footage exists and appealed to witnesses to share the material they either captured themselves or received from friends in the days since Wadee's death. Jahdea Paterson, 18, of Toronto and a 17-year-old boy who can't be identified are charged with first-degree murder, while a 16-year-old boy is charged with being an accessory. Paterson surrendered to police overnight after a Canada-wide warrant was issued for his arrest, police said. The other two accused, who also face firearm charges, were arrested shortly after the shooting. Pattenden said the force has become familiar with large parties held at Airbnb rentals, adding some homes are even stripped of furniture and left largely vacant specifically for that purpose. He said last week's party began as an unofficial post-prom celebration for students at Bill Crothers Secondary School in Markham, Ont., but the crowd grew as attendees shared details of the event on social media. Neither the suspects nor the victim were students at Bill Crothers, Pattenden said. A statement from the York Region District School Board confirmed that Wadee attended Maple High School in Vaughan. 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. "Our thoughts are with the students family and friends, and with all of those who are affected by this loss and act of violence," the board's director of education Louise Sirisko said in a statement, adding that some parents may be concerned about safety. "While after-prom parties are not school-sanctioned events, we know that end-of-year festivities are occurring and that students and their families are making decisions in their best interest. It's important for families to have open conversations about these events and supports that are available." Dick stressed a similar message, noting questions around liability are still very much evolving in the context of Airbnb rentals. He said that while there is little to no case law involving injuries sustained on properties rented through Airbnb or similar organizations, the courts have made it clear that property owners do owe a "duty of care" to any minors who come to harm on their grounds. "Airbnb is supposed to do the vetting, which does insulate the home-owners to some extent in the sense that if they don't know there are minors on the property they can't be responsible," Dick said. "But the real issue is how much vetting does Airbnb do?" Pattenden said Airbnb has largely replaced the function formerly filled exclusively by hotels, saying the fatal shooting should be prompting conversations about everything from personal responsibility to safety concerns around unsupervised parties, regardless of where they take place. SAINT JOHN, N.B. - The Crown and defence in a high-profile New Brunswick murder trial agree there was a lack of direct evidence, but they differ on how that should be viewed by the judge. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 9/5/2019 (961 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Dennis Oland heads from the Law Courts as he continues his testimony in Saint John, N.B., on Thursday, March 7, 2019. Final arguments will be heard today in the trial of Dennis Oland who is charged with second-degree murder in the death of his wealthy father in July, 2011. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Andrew Vaughan SAINT JOHN, N.B. - The Crown and defence in a high-profile New Brunswick murder trial agree there was a lack of direct evidence, but they differ on how that should be viewed by the judge. Lawyers wrapped up their closing arguments Thursday in the retrial of Dennis Oland on a charge of second-degree murder in the 2011 death of his wealthy father in Saint John. Richard Oland was struck more than 40 times with a hammer-like weapon in July 2011, leaving his skull cracked in several places. Deep cuts on his hands suggested he tried to protect himself from his attacker. The weapon was never found. Alan Gold, Dennis Oland's lawyer, told Court of Queen's Bench Justice Terrence Morrison the Crown's case is based on circumstantial evidence, and there are pieces that don't fit. It is human nature to "distort the facts in order to establish a proposition of guilt," he said, but the Crown is asking the judge to make inferences from the lack of direct evidence. In his closing remarks, Crown prosecutor P.J. Veniot said he would not be asking the judge to draw inferences if he had solid evidence of everything. He said it is a case about the evidence in its entirety and how it fits together. "It's about a father and son, one wealthy and one not," Veniot said. "It's not about tunnel vision or confirmation bias ... despite what the defence would have you believe." The Crown has suggested the younger Oland's financial problems were a motive, but Gold said that is speculation. He told the judge that a significant section of the Crown's written submission to the court is based on the theory that Dennis Oland was driven by "financial despair." He called that an overreach, a search for a motive in an effort to identify the killer. Gold said there's no evidence to show that finances were even discussed when Oland visited his father's office on the day of the murder. "The only direct evidence is the accused's testimony to the contrary," Gold said. The trial heard that a brown jacket worn by Dennis Oland when he visited his father had tiny bloodstains and Richard Oland's DNA on it. Oland told police he had been wearing a navy blazer on that day, and the brown jacket was taken to be dry cleaned the day after Richard Oland was found dead in his Saint John office. But Gold said there was no proof showing his client tried to deceive police. The Crown's case also focused on Richard Oland's missing iPhone and evidence that it pinged with a tower to the east of the city after Dennis Oland travelled in that direction. Gold told the court that the Crown produced nothing to prove that the son took the phone. Gold also used his closing statements to highlight what he called a poor police investigation. He said police "failed to adequately process the scene" and "overlooked third parties." 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. Dennis Oland sat quietly in the court Thursday, listening attentively to the presentations. The court was full of his relatives and friends of the family. Veniot said the 45 blows suffered by Richard Oland went well beyond what was needed to kill him. "This was a crime of passion. This was personal," he said. "This was not a random killing by a crackhead." Dennis Oland alone was responsible for the murder, he added. The lawyers' oral statements Thursday were in addition to lengthy written briefs presented to the court. Oland was initially charged with the second-degree murder of his father in 2013. He was convicted in a jury trial in 2015, but the verdict was set aside on appeal and a new trial was ordered. The second trial has been heard by judge alone. Justice Morrison noted that few murder trials a heard before a judge alone, and few are this complicated. As a result he has reserved his decision until July 19. Among the thousands of Canadians who stormed the beaches of Normandy on June 6, 1944, to roll back the tide of fascism was a 19-year-old Metis soldier from Deloraine named Francis Godon. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 8/5/2019 (961 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Among the thousands of Canadians who stormed the beaches of Normandy on June 6, 1944, to roll back the tide of fascism was a 19-year-old Metis soldier from Deloraine named Francis Godon. On the 75th anniversary of D-Day, the military-issued boots Godon wore during the war will be returned to Juno Beach where he fought alongside 14,000 other Canadians to liberate Nazi-occupied France. "We were walking along the beach together and I remember him looking out into the English Channel. Then he looked back at me and he said, 'Isn't it wonderful that when you look now you see the people enjoying themselves all because of what we did'" Frank Godon Jr. At VIA Rails Union Station Wednesday night, the same place Godon had shipped out for war decades earlier, those boots alongside the boots of other D-Day veterans were loaded onto a train to begin the trip east. While Godons are destined for the beaches of Normandy, others are being shipped to Halifax in time for a national commemoration on June 6. Wednesdays ceremony was part of a Canada-wide effort to keep the memory of the Normandy landings alive. Similar events have already been held in Vancouver, Edmonton and Churchill, among other cities. After leaving Winnipeg, the boots will continue east, making pit stops in Toronto, Kingston, Quebec City, Moncton and, finally, Halifax. Godon died in January at the age of 94. Prior to his death, however, he requested his boots be shipped back to the beach hed once stormed with his comrades. In 2003, he had the chance to return to Juno Beach, alongside his son, for the first time. That experience led him to open up about his memories from the war for the first time in his entire life, Godon Jr. 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. "We were walking along the beach together and I remember him looking out into the English Channel. Then he looked back at me and he said, Isnt it wonderful that when you look now you see the people enjoying themselves all because of what we did," Godon Jr. said. "There were tears in his eyes when he was saying that He started telling me what had happened that day on the beach, what he had done." Also in attendance Wednesday was Leonard Van Roon, 97, a surviving D-Day veteran. He was 21 years old when he landed on Juno Beach in 1944. Van Roon said that while its important to keep the memory of those who died alive, no one who wasnt there that day will ever understand what it was like to fight your way onto those beaches. "That beach, the shellfire just landed on that beach those shells landed on the beach, thats where the guys were and you couldnt get off the beach because of the mines," Van Roon said. "What would the world be like if it failed? Some of those early days were pretty rough. People dont realize the numbers that either made it or it didnt and both sides knew they had to succeed." When he heard Asia Bibi, a Pakistani Christian woman acquitted of blasphemy, was on her way to Canada, Nadeem Bhatti could hardly believe it. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 9/5/2019 (961 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. When he heard Asia Bibi, a Pakistani Christian woman acquitted of blasphemy, was on her way to Canada, Nadeem Bhatti could hardly believe it. "We had been told three or four times she was going to be leaving, but it never turned out," said Bhatti, a friend of the family who last spoke to Bibi three days ago. On Tuesday, Bibi, whose death sentence was overturned late last year, left Pakistan for her new home in this country. "She is very happy to be here, but very tired," he said after having spoken to the family. "She is very glad to be reunited with her daughters." Her daughters, both in their late teens, arrived in Canada last December while Bibi and her husband, Ashiq Masih, remained in Pakistan awaiting permission to leave. Bhatti says the ordeal has taken a toll on Bibi. "She missed her daughters so much," he said, noting she often asked him "how they are doing, and feeling bad she wasnt there to help them." Now that the family is back together, they are asking for privacy and time for everyone to rest and heal, he said. "They need time alone," he said. "They have a very good support group to help them." The familys location in Canada is being kept secret, Bhatti said, due to death threats. This includes a threat from an Islamist extremist in Pakistan who called on Muslims in other countries to kill her when she was allowed to leave that country. Bhatti, who has been advocating for Bibis release since 2011, expressed his "heartfelt thanks to the Canadian government officials who worked to bring her to Canada." 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. While Bibis arrival in Canada "is an answer to prayer," he added there are "many more Christians in Pakistan and other countries whose lives are also in danger. We need to keep praying for them." Bibis arrival in Canada brings to an end a case dating back to 2009, when the young Catholic woman was accused by her Muslim neighbours of insulting the prophet Muhammad. She maintained her innocence, but was sentenced to death in 2010. She languished in prison for eight years until last fall, when Pakistans Supreme Court overturned the conviction. Following her acquittal, Bibi was set free. But death threats from radical religious hardliners forced her and her family into hiding. In December, her daughters quietly slipped out of Pakistan and made their way to Canada. In January, Pakistans Supreme Court reaffirmed its decision, clearing the way for Bibi to leave. faith@freepress.mb.ca A 42-year-old Winnipeg woman with Stage 4 breast cancer is out of pocket $7,000 and counting because the drug her oncologist has prescribed is not covered by Pharmacare. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 9/5/2019 (960 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. A 42-year-old Winnipeg woman with Stage 4 breast cancer is out of pocket $7,000 and counting because the drug her oncologist has prescribed is not covered by Pharmacare. Jennette Heinrichs, who is on long-term disability, has had to sell her car and cut other costs in order to pay for her lifesaving treatment. She has been told fulvestrant a hormonal treatment for advanced breast cancer is on a list of medications awaiting approval from the province, but she doesn't know when, or if, it will be covered. "It's very stressful," Heinrichs said Thursday. "It just feels as though I'm caught in a bureaucratic crack in the system. It's very frustrating." She said she's spoken with officials at Pharmacare, the province, and CancerCare Manitoba about possible funding she could receive to offset the high costs of treatment. But there doesn't seem to be anything available. "There needs to be some kind of fund that helps people that are caught in this kind of situation," she said in an interview. Heinrichs contacted the Manitoba Liberals, who took up her cause Thursday. "She's essentially being bankrupted by the costs of the medication," Liberal Leader Dougald Lamont told reporters. "If we can afford a PST cut that is going to cost us $300 million (per year) and we can't afford to pay for people's lifesaving drugs, I find that hard to swallow." Heinrichs said fulvestrant by itself has limited use but it is now available in combination with another drug also not covered by the provincial drug program but which is being offered for free, for now, by the pharmaceutical company. According to the Canadian Breast Cancer Network, fulvestrant, sold under the brand name Faslodex, is not yet covered by any province. Health Minister Cameron Friesen said he has spoken with the head of CancerCare Manitoba about the drug. He said he's been told there are fewer than 100 persons in the province currently looking to access it. Friesen said he is mindful some Manitobans "face tremendous challenges trying to pay for prescriptions," and discussions are underway to list certain high-cost drugs, such as fulvestrant, for coverage. He said he could not say anything more, so as not to imperil negotiations with pharmaceutical companies. 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 said he hoped he would have more to say about fulvestrant "quite soon." A spokeswoman for CancerCare said manufacturer AstraZeneca Canada Inc. had previously offered a special access program to cover the drug's costs. The drug maker closed entry to the program in January 2018, although 17 patients who were enrolled at the time continue to benefit from it. The CancerCare spokeswoman said "less than five patients" have received the drug since the access program was closed. Meanwhile, Lamont did not lay all responsibility for helping patients such as Heinrichs at the feet of the Pallister government. He said Ottawa must step up by instituting a national pharmacare program that would reduce drug prices. Lamont also blamed national regulators for extending patent protection for fulvestrant, preventing a generic equivalent from being produced. larry.kusch@freepress.mb.ca Steve Ashton, a longtime pillar of the Manitoba New Democratic Party, has been rejected as a potential candidate in the next general election after its provincial executive upheld a committee decision to bar him from running. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 8/5/2019 (961 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Steve Ashton, a longtime pillar of the Manitoba New Democratic Party, has been rejected as a potential candidate in the next general election after its provincial executive upheld a committee decision to bar him from running. The controversial decision could affect the NDP's chances of retaking the constituency of Thompson, which Ashton represented in the legislature for 35 consecutive years until he was defeated in the 2016 general election by Tory candidate Kelly Bindle. Ashton's attempt at a political comeback was thwarted when the NDP candidate approval committee recently rejected his candidacy. Late Tuesday, the party's provincial executive met to hear Ashton's appeal of that decision. It sided with the committee. The party said the provincial executive's decision is final and cannot be challenged. "At this time, no further details regarding this matter can be disclosed," the NDP said in a statement. RUTH BONNEVILLE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES Steve Ashton, former cabinet minister and longtime Thompson MLA, has been barred from running as an NDP candidate in the next provincial election. Ashton, a former cabinet minister who unsuccessfully ran for the party leadership three times, including a loss to current NDP Leader Wab Kinew in 2017, did not respond to numerous requests for comment Wednesday. However, Blair Hudson, a member of the Thompson NDP constituency executive who spoke up for Ashton at his appeal Tuesday, said the decision is not going to sit well in the northern community. "This morning, when I heard the appeal was denied, I was shocked and saddened, frankly," he said in a telephone interview. Hudson said the local executive, which, coincidentally met Wednesday, passed a motion condemning the party's decision. "We feel that the people from Thompson should decide who's going to be our candidate unless there's something glaringly bad in the person's background. I've seen the allegations and that's not there," Hudson said. He would not reveal the party's allegations against Ashton, saying he respected its confidential process. "But I can say I'm disappointed in the reasons." Sources told Free Press columnist Dan Lett the candidate approval committee provided Ashton with a five-page letter outlining the concerns that led to the decision to reject his application. PHIL HOSSACK / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES Wab Kinew, left and Steve Ashton at the NDP Leadership 2017 Forum. The concerns included details of a dispute Ashton had with the legislative assembly over office equipment and furniture that apparently was missing when he cleared out his government office in 2016. There were also questions about tens of thousands of dollars in expenses from past leadership campaigns and his 2016 re-election campaign that were paid using personal funds and may have contravened election financing laws. The committee also referenced the 2015 Tiger Dam scandal, in which Ashton, then in cabinet, allegedly attempted to obtain an untendered flood-protection contract for a friend. And, it raised concerns about his behaviour in the 2017 leadership race, when anonymous letters were sent to party delegates attacking Kinew. Hudson said the NDP stood a good chance of regaining the Thompson seat in an election that could be held as early as this year, but the party's decision "really sets us back." "By preventing Steve from running, it could negatively affect our chances of winning in the general election no matter who the successful (NDP) candidate is now," he told the Free Press. 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. Kinew refused to comment on the provincial NDP executive's decision to deny Ashton's appeal. Although, as leader, he sits on the party executive, Kinew has recused himself from the process. He said he also plays no role in the candidate vetting process. Alex Forrest, president of the United Fire Fighters of Winnipeg and a longtime Ashton supporter, refused Wednesday to comment on the party's decision. However, he said Ashton would be a formidable candidate if he decided to run as an independent or under the banner of another political party. "I've known Steve for a long time. And if he decides to run as an independent or if he decides to run as a Green candidate, he would likely win that riding," Forrest said. Forrest added he has not heard Ashton is about to join the Greens. "It's just that when one party spurns you, there's other parties that will look at you." larry.kusch@freepress.mb.ca I dont know if I believe it, but a pal told me, Our Manitoba Day is the only one in the world! But whos ever heard, How many more sleeps until Manitoba Day? How many more? Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 9/5/2019 (961 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Opinion I dont know if I believe it, but a pal told me, "Our Manitoba Day is the only one in the world!" But whos ever heard, "How many more sleeps until Manitoba Day? How many more?" According to a poll, 96 per cent of Manitobans dont know about Manitoba Day. I bet more know May 12 is Homer Simpsons birthday. The origin of Manitoba Day is obscure. Despite governments saying Manitoba Day was created by the legislature in 1970, there is no such record. What a gripping mystery. This was a job for government publications head Heidi Rees at the legislative library. The first mention of a "Manitoba Day" was in April 1975, 105 years after the provinces birth. Rene Toupin, the cultural affairs minister at the time, issued a humble news release to announce May 12 as the big day. A noon-hour ceremony on May 12, 1975, outside the legislature featured singing and speeches, including by then-lieutenant-governor John McKeag. According to the Winnipeg Free Press, as he explained to a captive audience of 350 children the name "Manitoba" comes from the great spirit Manitou, his microphone instantly jumped from its stand and "clattered to the floor." Premier Ed Schreyer then proclaimed the first Manitoba Day. Toupin asked, "Can it be that Manitoba Day will become an annual non-event?" No one answered. Toupin explained the bold move in the legislature, saying May 12 was the anniversary of Manitoba entering Confederation. His staff had a little Manitoba flag placed on each MLAs desk, accompanied by cloth tartan flowers for some. They ran out, so not everyone got the flowers. But the legislature itself never established Manitoba Day. I guess because the days legal foundation was assumed, or the process was derailed by heckling and points of order. The legislature sets other important days, such as Jon Sigurdsson Day, Nurse Practitioner Day, School Bus Driver Day and Service and Therapy Animal Day. I wish Id known earlier. And its too bad lawmakers never made it a holiday. Is there more important business? I should seek re-election on this issue. Museums do have extended hours to celebrate Manitoba Day. And free admission. In 2015, the Access Winnipeg website said, "The event that well be most excited for is Cake-itoba!" That year, the Manitoba Museum offered historic military drill performances and Manitoba-themed cakes judged by discerning guests. They celebrated May 12 on May 9. The next year, they celebrated on May 14, and then on May 6. This year, according to the Manitoba Museum, May 12 is on May 11. Cake excitement continues. But Manitoba, the most adorably odd and compelling place, deserves even more. May I suggest Jeannes cake? And I, for one, will build it up. I will ask friends, "Whatcha doin for Manitoba Day? Family coming? Or just gonna take it easy and enjoy?" 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. Except, despite eager politicians and museum cake-eaters calling out "Happy Birthday," May 12 isnt Manitobas birthday. Yes, Canadas Parliament passed the federal bill creating the province on May 12, 1870, but the law came into force on July 15. That means Manitoba was born and joined Canada on July 15, not May 12. Thats why Manitobas iconic Legislative Building opened on July 15, 1920, the provinces 50th birthday. Thats why the Queen gave a nice speech in Winnipeg on July 15, 1970, the provinces 100th birthday. And why the legislature passed the Manitoba Centennial Day Act to give employees a paid day off or time-and-a-half on July 15, 1970 (with the 150th next year: hint, hint, Brian Pallister). If we celebrated the day a bill merely passed, "July 1" would be called "March 29." Lets not quibble. Have two big days. Let Manitoba double-dip on birthdays. If the family celebrated my birthday early, Id say, "Great!" Theres still leverage for the real day. Presents and presents. So, lets go for a big Jeannes cake on Manitoba Day, May 12, and on the nameless July 15. Or on all six of the aforementioned dates. And when the Queen returns home from a hoped-for May trip to Manitoba in 2020, her aides will say, "Dont unpack yet, Lilibet. You know how you pull off two birthdays, in April and June? Youre not alone. Theres more Jeannes cake coming. But they say Jeann-ees. Or Flapper Pie. Vinarterta? Shmoo torte!" And shell reply, "How many more sleeps? How many more?" Gord Mackintosh was the MLA for St. Johns from 1993 to 2016, and served in several cabinet roles under premiers Gary Doer and Greg Selinger. He is the author of Stories Best Left Untold: Tales from a Manitoba legislator, and currently teaches political science at the University of Winnipeg. It was New Democratic Party Leader Wab Kinews big moment in the Manitoba legislature on Monday. Finally, he had some polling numbers to prove all along what many have suspected: Winnipeggers are unhappy with the restructuring of hospitals, the closures of emergency rooms and layoffs of nurses. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 9/5/2019 (961 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Opinion It was New Democratic Party Leader Wab Kinews big moment in the Manitoba legislature on Monday. Finally, he had some polling numbers to prove all along what many have suspected: Winnipeggers are unhappy with the restructuring of hospitals, the closures of emergency rooms and layoffs of nurses. In a bombastic condemnation, he used those numbers to accuse Premier Brian Pallister of not listening to Manitobans, while at the same time, lambasting the Tory leader for his management style. The poll, conducted by Probe Research in a series of quarterly surveys between 2017 and 2018, indicates 39 per cent of Winnipeggers feel the health-care system within the city is getting worse. That number of dissatisfied respondents doubled from 2017 to 2018. Of course, 48 per cent of those surveyed felt the service was the same, something Kinew failed to mention. He also failed to mention this survey was of Winnipeggers in general, and not of people who actually used the health-care system. According to the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority, the majority of people who accessed the system were satisfied with the service they received. But there is no doubt the changes have caused anxiety, and there is evidence wait times in emergency rooms have increased since the Pallister government made the decision to reduce the number of emergency rooms and urgent-care facilities in the city. Under the plans announced so far by the government and the WRHA, there will be three ERs and only two urgent-care centres once the restructuring is completed later this year. Concordia Hospitals ER is slated to become a walk-in clinic, though the timing of closure plans could be affected if Pallisters often-hinted-at early provincial election becomes a reality. And yet, if you witness whats happening in the province to the east of us, Manitobans have been relatively quiet in terms of protest, and that raises a lot of questions. Last week, more than 1,000 people from all over Ontario rallied in Toronto to protest Premier Doug Fords changes to health care, including changes to paramedic services, public health funding and the creation of a super-agency called Ontario Health intended to cut back on the duplication of services. The protesters represented numerous unions, patients and health-care providers and voiced concerns about privatization of services and a decline in the quality of health care. These concerns are similar to those felt in Manitoba, although the cuts here might not be nearly as drastic. But what has been our public response so far? Weve seen some small protests at the legislature, including a gathering Tuesday of about 100 people in support of midwives. A few hundred showed up Wednesday outside Concordia Hospital to oppose to the ER closure there. Protests by the Manitoba Nurses Union might get 400 people out. Lawn signs let politicians know during the last civic election that homeowners value their ERs. Weve seen no provincial day of protest. No marches to shut down Portage and Main. No return to our roots of a general strike. No polling that suggests the Tories are going to pay for this at the ballot box if they were to call an election anytime soon. And lets face it, thats what really matters. In the long run, Kinew can talk all he wants about how Manitobans dont like Pallisters management style, but frankly, no one seems to be standing in the Tories way. First, the changes being suggested come from a report commissioned by the NDP when they were in power, suggesting when they were in government, they knew there was a problem with the way health care was being delivered in the city. The report, "Clinical and Preventive Services Planning for Manitoba" or the Peachey report, named after the Nova Scotia physician who is the consultant behind it recommended closing three Winnipeg ERs and replacing two of them with urgent-care centres as part of an overall consolidation effort to concentrate resources and improve the quality of health care in the province. Second, the NDP is struggling to organize itself, let alone organize protests against health-care cuts. Their polling numbers within Winnipeg have not changed in any substantive way, when considering the margin of error, since March 2017, and the Pallister Tories are still holding strong both in and outside the city. More importantly, in 2018, the Manitoba Tories raised more than $2 million in donations, triple the amount the NDP accumulated. Pallister could easily run an election campaign and win right now. That reveals a rather nasty reality. If Kinew cant gain momentum now, in the midst of health-care cuts, nursing layoffs and talk of privatization, its likely he never will. Maybe its time for the NDP to cut its losses. Third, theres been no outrage at the civic level, either, which is fascinating. On Monday, Toronto Mayor John Tory declared war on Ford, hoping to pressure the Ontario premier into reconsidering budget cuts not only to health care, but also to education, transit and child care. In comparison. Winnipeg Mayor Brian Bowman has shown his frustration with Pallister, trying to hold him accountable for promised provincial funding on various projects, but when it comes to speaking up for health care, he has remained largely silent. Yes, hes made it clear he wants more to be done to fight the meth crisis and he supports moving ahead with supervised injection sites in Winnipeg. But with this mayor, one wonders if hes trying to keep his future political career options open by not speaking out too loudly against the ER closures and the restructuring. 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. It is a provincial responsibility, of course, but city residents are affected by these decisions. Why hasnt Bowman, like Tory, been more vocal about health care for the people of Winnipeg? Finally, the union environment within the health-care system is in a state of flux. Manitobas 180 health-sector bargaining units have been amalgamated into approximately 40, based on the type of work employees do, not where they work. This caused some infighting between two significant union groups, the Manitoba Government and General Employees Union and the Canadian Union of Public Employees, with CUPE suggesting the MGEU was deliberately hiding information from its membership and creating fear. Its hard to organize health-care workers when the unions who represent them arent getting along. All this is to say Pallister may not have a management style that everyone loves, but you dont go into management to be liked you go into management to get the job done. And it looks like no one is going to stand in his way when it comes to restructuring health care in Winnipeg. Shannon Sampert is a political scientist at the University of Winnipeg. s.sampert@uwinnipeg.ca Twitter: @paulysigh Outside the courthouse, in the light of a cool spring day, George and Melinda Wood stood facing the quiet half-circle of reporters. Around them were gathered dozens of family and supporters, a halo of love as united here, at the end of the journey, as it had been just over a week ago when the trial started. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 8/5/2019 (961 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Opinion Outside the courthouse, in the light of a cool spring day, George and Melinda Wood stood facing the quiet half-circle of reporters. Around them were gathered dozens of family and supporters, a halo of love as united here, at the end of the journey, as it had been just over a week ago when the trial started. It hadnt been a long trial, which is a kind of blessing. The trial of the man accused of Christine Woods murder was expected to last up to three weeks; it took just nine days. The jury reached a unanimous verdict in less than two hours Wednesday. As they sat waiting to hear the accuseds fate, George and Melinda clutched their hands together tightly. When the jury foreman rose to make the pronouncement guilty, second-degree murder those interlaced hands shot upward in unison, moved by the same surge of raw feeling that sent cries of relief ringing through the room. At the front of the public gallery, Melindas mother, Gladys, held up a spray of green flowers. They were so bright they drew eyes to them, beaming in vivid contrast to the subdued hues of the court. The colour of life. The colour of hope. Later, speaking to reporters, George began to read his statement about what the verdict meant to him and his wife of 35 years. It was a wonderful day, he began, and his gentle voice trembled with emotion: "Our daughter, Christine, got justice today," he continued. "Thats all we all were hoping for." It is an imperfect justice, George knows, because it cannot bring back his daughter. It cannot right the wrong done to Christine, and all those who loved her. It cannot mend the hearts that were broken that night in August 2016, when her life was taken. These are some of the many things that even a just verdict cannot hope to offer. But there are different kinds of justice, and they are found in different places. The one that judges and juries can make only completes part of the picture. The other kind is nurtured not by evidence or verdicts, but by awareness, compassion; it is a justice served whenever a community lifts up those who have been harmed. So in his statement, George thanked all the people across Canada who had supported them. There are many: in the years since Christine has been gone, it seemed as if everyone who crossed paths with the Wood family came to love them. By their unfaltering advocacy for their daughter, they lifted Christines legacy to wider public attention. Consider how, after he testified in court, the farmer who found Christines body joined George and Melinda for lunch, then stayed in court to show support for them. Or how, on Wednesday morning, Winnipeg police Chief Danny Smyth met the family privately, to offer his condolences before the jury began deliberating. There have been countless stories like that on this journey. Those who walked alongside the Woods saw it at every step: Christine was loved beyond measure. She still is, because that bond is something violence cannot sever, and while court heard painful testimony during the last week, the light of that love shone so much brighter. 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. If striving towards a more perfect justice means not only counting who is responsible, but who is remembered, then their efforts were not in vain. They once scoured the city, hoping to bring their daughter home safely; when that could not happen, they drew together a community of people who helped ensure she would not be forgotten. After the verdict, Christines family and supporters gathered at Candace House, a refuge for those touched by violence thats a short walk from the courthouse. Every seat in the place was taken. Staff put on coffee next to plates of moose stew and fried pickerel from the north that one supporter had brought with her. For over an hour, they shared stories, looked at photos, or just held each other. Over the low hum of conversation, occasional bursts of laughter rang out at one end of the room or another. Even the air seemed to grow lighter, as if cleared of an invisible mist that had weighed it down: Christines memory can fly free, now. This part of George and Melindas journey is almost over. Now they can go home, back to the comfort of the forest and lakes that surround Bunibonibee Cree Nation. Back to the grave where they laid their daughter to rest, back to their three sons and the grandchildren they cherish, back to the community that rallied around them. When they go, they will take part of Winnipegs heart with them. They showed us what the true face of justice can look like: a justice that is rooted in community, one that is dignified and tenacious and loving. Thats a gift they brought to this city, where their own was taken from them. It will not soon be forgotten. melissa.martin@freepress.mb.ca PARIS - One more funeral, one less witness to the world's worst war. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 9/5/2019 (961 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. FILE - In this June 30, 2007 file photo, French-born GI Bernard Dargols, 87, left, who landed with the US troops on Omaha Beach on June 8, 1945, Raymond Mouquet, 68, second left, the mayor of the nearby town of Saint-Laurent-sur-Mer and American WW II veteran Arnold Franco, 83, from New York, third left, take part to a ceremony at the American cemetery and Memorial in Colleville-sur-Mer, Normandy. Dargols waded onto Omaha Beach in June 1944 as an American soldier to help liberate France from Nazis who persecuted his Jewish family. At 98, Dargols died last week. An ever-smaller number of D-Day veterans will take part in June 6, 2019 ceremonies marking the 75th anniversary of history's largest amphibian invasion. (AP Photo/Thibault Camus, File) PARIS - One more funeral, one less witness to the world's worst war. Bernard Dargols lived almost long enough to join the celebrations next month marking 75 years since the D-Day, 75 years since he waded onto Omaha Beach as an American soldier to help liberate France from the Nazis who persecuted his Jewish family. Just shy of his 99th birthday, Dargols died last week. To the strains of his beloved American jazz, he was laid to rest Thursday at France's most famous cemetery, Pere Lachaise. An ever-smaller number of veterans will stand on Normandy's shores on June 6 for D-Day's 75th anniversary. Many will salute fallen comrades from their wheelchairs. As each year passes, more firsthand history is lost. Four weeks from now, U.S. President Donald Trump and other world leaders will pay homage to the more than 2 million American, British, Canadian and other Allied forces involved in the D-Day operation on June 6, 1944, and the ensuing battle for Normandy that helped pave the way for Hitler's defeat. Dargols outlived most of them, and knew the importance of sustaining their memory. "I'm convinced that we have to talk about the war to children, so that they understand how much they need to preserve the peace," he wrote in a 2012 memoir. Until the end, Dargols battled complacency, intolerance and Holocaust deniers who claim that D-Day was "just a movie." In recent years, "seeing any type of violence, of anti-Semitism and racism, either in France in Europe or in the U.S." really upset him, granddaughter Caroline Jolivet said. In this family handout photo, a portrait of late Jewish French-American World War II veteran, Bernard Dargols, wearing the logo of the 2nd Infantry Division on his sweater, is displayed during his funeral ceremony at the Pere Lachaise cemetary in Paris, Thursday, May 9, 2019. Dargols waded onto Omaha Beach in June 1944 as an American soldier to help liberate France from Nazis who persecuted his Jewish family. At 98, Dargols died last week. An ever-smaller number of D-Day veterans will take part in June 6 ceremonies marking the 75th anniversary of history's largest amphibian invasion. (Caroline Jolivet via AP) Normandy schoolteachers, veterans' families and military memorials are labouring against time to record survivors' stories for posterity. In history's biggest amphibious invasion, on that fateful June 6, some 160,000 Allied forces came ashore to launch Operation Overlord to wrest Normandy from Nazi control. More than 4,000 Allied forces were killed on that day alone. Nearly half a million people were killed on both sides by the time the Allies liberated Paris in August 1944. It's unclear exactly how many D-Day veterans are alive today. The survivors are now in their 90s or 100s. Of the 73,000 Americans who took part, just 30 are currently scheduled to come to France for this year's anniversary. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs estimates that about 348 American World War II veterans die every day . All but three of the 177 French forces involved in D-Day are gone. Every day, the names of the departed accumulate, tweeted by veterans groups, published in local newspapers. Dargols might have made it to Normandy this year. It meant a lot to him. His story is both unusual and emblematic: Born in France, he left Paris in 1938 for New York to learn his father's sewing machine trade. He watched from afar, sickened, as the Nazis occupied his homeland. His Jewish relatives were sent to camps, or fled in fear. Determined to fight back but skeptical of French General Charles de Gaulle's resistance force, he joined the U.S. Army instead. With the 2nd Infantry Division, Dargols sailed from Britain on June 5 and only made it to Normandy on June 8, after three interminable days on choppy seas. The road he took inland from Omaha Beach now carries his name. The battle to wrest Normandy from the Nazis took longer than the Allies thought, but for Dargols the prize at the end was invaluable. When he made it to Paris, he went to his childhood apartment and found his mother unexpectedly alive. For four decades, he didn't talk much about the war. But as more and more survivors died, and at his granddaughter's urging, he realized the importance of speaking out and sharing his stories with schools and journalists. Friends and family remembered him Thursday as shy but courageous, a lover of oysters and pastrami sandwiches, known for his mischievous smile. Jolivet, his granddaughter, told the AP of his yearning for leaders who "bring people together, instead of divide them." Dargols would have had a clear message for the D-Day anniversary, she said: "Never take democracy for granted. Dictatorship is always a bad solution. Violence is always a bad solution. Keep democracy alive. Fight for democracy, for freedom, for peace." The cultural director at Normandy's World War II memorial in Caen, Isabelle Bournier, frets about this fading message, as she watches schoolchildren cycle through her museum every day. 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 parents and grandparents of 13-year-olds today didn't experience the war, so the family stories, the family history where helmets are brought out, where we spoke about what it was like has been lost," she said. "They don't know the names of the landing beaches," she said. "Pupils spend less time studying World War II than they did 30 years ago, and so the role of D-Day has been reduced." Dargols himself worried about the day when all the veterans will be gone. "It could start again," he wrote in his memoir. "We must be vigilant, at all times." ___ John Leicester and Jeffrey Schaeffer contributed. The areas top nurses traded their scrubs for dresses and suits, if only for a night. Ten nurses from the Winona and La Crosse areas were honored Wednesday at the inaugural Nurses: Heart of Health Care gala at the Court Above Main in La Crosse, an event organized by River Valley Media Group. Nurses from Winona Health, Saint Anne of Winona, Gundersen Health System and Mayo Clinic Health System-Franciscan Healthcare gathered to sip champagne, nibble hors doeuvres and find out who would be named nurse of the year. That distinction ultimately went to Alyse Betchner, an oncology and hospice nurse at Gundersen. Im in absolute shock my first thought was I better text the patient who nominated me, said Betchner, whos been a nurse for four years. As a nurse, you forget about things because youre always on to the next thing and the next thing. Its nice to look back at all of that, at everything weve accomplished. Betchner, a native of Sauk City, was inspired to become a nurse after she got pregnant as a high school senior. She decided to put the baby up for adoption, a decision that tore her up, but the nurses who cared for her were nothing but supportive, she said. In that moment, Betchner resolved to spend her career helping others. Now, she cares for patients in difficult and sometimes hopeless times people who have cancer, people who have weeks or months to live. To her, its not just a job. I think thats why so many of us are good nurses, because we cant shut off the work and home, she said. We sit around and think about patients all the time, hope theyre having a good day. Even if we cant be there, were still thinking about them. In February, River Valley Media Group asked readers to nominate nurses who had gone above and beyond for their patients. More than 120 nominations poured in heartfelt praise from patients, co-workers and others who have been inspired by the outstanding service of nurses in our area. A four-person panel which included Tim Kotnour of State Bank Financial, Ryan Smith of Dahl Subaru, Joanne Sandvick of the La Crosse Medical Health Science Consortium and Josh Trust of River Valley Media Group whittled the list to 10 finalists before selecting the winner. But the event was more than a contest. It was a chance to recognize people who do so much for so many, yet expect so little in return. Youre not just a nurse, said Jenna Hemstock, a nurse manager for Winona Healths senior living communities. A lot of times youre the social worker, youre the financial worker, youre somebody to talk to when they need emotional support. You do a lot more than just passing the pills and doing the care plan. The 10 finalists whose stories will appear in the Winona Daily News on Sunday vary in age, experience and field. Some work in cancer treatment. Some work in an emergency room. And some work in hospice, ensuring that patients final days are as comfortable and meaningful as possible. What binds these nurses is an unwavering dedication to patients, an ability to put others needs above their own. Nursing is not about the monetary reward. Its about the reward of helping our fellow human beings, said Jason Fratzke, chief nursing officer at Mayo and one of the speakers at Wednesdays gala. Your passion and commitment really do make a difference one nurse, one patient, one family at a time. Kyle Farris can be reached at (608) 791-8234 or kfarris@lacrossetribune.com. Follow him on Twitter at @Kyle_A_Farris. Love 3 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 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. Health care providers at Winona Health are receiving calls from many community members concerned about measles and with questions about whether they or their children need a vaccine. According to Winona Health Medical Staff Chief, Brett Whyte, MD: Those who have had two measles vaccines (generally given at age 1 and age 5) do not need a booster and are at very low risk of getting measles. The protection is around 98%. Those who were born before 1957 are considered immune from exposure to childhood measles and also dont need a vaccine. Over 90% of recent measles cases are in unvaccinated or under-vaccinated people. Those who have not had the measles vaccine, or who have only had one vaccine should get the vaccine. Measles is a very contagious disease caused by a virus. It spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. If you have questions about whether you were vaccinated, contact the health care organization that would have your medical records. Winona Health patients can check their vaccination records online through their My Winona Health account. More information, including frequently asked questions about measles, is available online at www.cdc.gov/measles. To schedule an appointment with a healthcare provider at Winona Health, call 507-454-3650. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 A bill has passed the Minnesota House but is stalled in the Minnesota Senate. It is supported by the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce, Minnesota Milk Producers, and others in the state, plus locally by the Winona City Council, the County Sheriff, and the County Attorney. It would allow those of legal age to be able to obtain a drivers license regardless of their immigration status. This bill does not confer the right to vote or citizen status if one does not have it. It does allow the person to obtain car insurance and requires him or her to go through the education and testing required of everyone who gets driving privileges in this state. Why support this bill and urge the Republican-led Minnesota Senate to pass it? It makes driving safer for everyone concerned the police, other motorists and their passengers, and the one with the license. Businesses and the rural economy needs the work done by our immigrant neighbors whether they are citizens or not. These people need to take their children to school, to access medical care and employment. Therefore they have to drive anyway. Why not make it legal for them to do so with the added benefits of insurance and drivers education? Richard Dahl, Winona Love 1 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Editors note: This story appeared in the May 10, 1972 edition of the Winona Daily News. Antiwar demonstrators occupied Winona City Hall this afternoon in the midst of protests that saw one of Winonas three colleges closed. The local demonstrations took place as growing protests swirled on city streets and college campuses across the nation as antiwar demonstrators by the thousands denounced President Nixons decision to mine North Vietnamese harbors. It was the most turbulent outburst since the 1970 protests over the U.S invasion of Cambodia. The Winona City Hall occupation occurred after demonstrators succeeded in closing Winona State College, blocked the intersection of West Broadway and Main Street for about an hour and marched on the Winona Selective Service office at Fourth and Center streets. Winona police officials said all city police officers had been placed on alert, but they took no action when marchers stormed into City Hall and occupied all but the police station wing of the building. About 200 demonstrators occupied the two upper floors of the building, halting all city business amid the din of antiwar slogans. Winona State College officials ordered the campus closed at noon today after a telephoned bomb threat was received. College officials said the anonymous call came at 10:28 a.m. through the campus switchboard, saying only that a bomb was in one of the buildings and was set to go off between 1 and 4 p.m. A short time later, college president R.A. DuFresne ordered all academic buildings on campus closed. Meanwhile, shouting demonstrators stormed through several buildings, setting off fire alarms in an attempt to gain support for a general student strike. Dormitories remained open while police and fire department officials searched the other buildings for a possible bomb. They reportedly found nothing. Dr. DuFresnes memo said the college would reopen at 8 a.m. Thursday, but demonstrators pledged to keep the college closed until the recent escalation of the Indochina War is withdrawn. Marchers pledged to halt all business as usual throughout the city until the administrations war policy is changed. Meanwhile, officials at the College of Saint Teresa said that campus was quiet at noon. St. Marys College has completed the spring term and is closed. After succeeding in closing Winona State, about 150 demonstrators marched to West Broadway and Main Street and blocked the intersection for about an hour. Marchers expected to meet with a police effort to clear the street, but no confrontation arose. Two full shifts of officers waited in City Hall, while the third was placed on alert. Officers were under orders to use restraint and to avoid any incidents. Most traffic at the intersection was able to turn around and leave the area, but five tractor-semitrailers were trapped when they found themselves unable to turn or proceed. Fiery debate arose among demonstrators at the intersection about whether or not to permit the truckers to proceed. The debate then changed to whether or not marchers should stay at the intersection or move on to the Selective Service office or City Hall. Occupation of City Hall outpolled the others and the marchers moved on, but they stopped for about 10 minutes at the Exchange Building, location of the Army and Navy recruiting offices as well as the Selective Service office. About half the marchers blocked the intersection at Fourth and Center streets while the rest stormed inside. The halls of the Exchange Building rang with chanted slogans as the demonstrators swarmed inside, passed the locked recruiting offices and upstairs to the draft office. That office was hurriedly locked and marchers soon returned outside for the trip to City Hall. Police stood shoulder-to-shoulder at the entrance to the police-jail wing of the building, while demonstrators took over the rest. At City Hall, officials ordered offices closed and locked, and protesters sat in the hallways and on the stairs, chanting antiwar slogans and singing. DuFresne arrived at City Hall about 1:30 p.m. and spoke to the group, made up primarily of WSC students. Most of the demonstrators moved out of the city building to hear DuFresne. I just returned from Moorhead yesterday, DuFresne said, where I met with the State College Board and all of the state college presidents except President J. F. Nickerson of Mankato State College. The group that met shared the same feeling that some of the demonstrators have we want peace and we have war, he said. Demonstrating is good if it is done in good faith against the war, and someday it will have an impact. Demonstration is good providing there is no violence, DuFresne said; promising to march with the protesters. An American flag; in front of City Hall was lowered to half mast, just before the college president spoke. DuFresne said he would march with the demonstrators if they would relinquish City Hall and march somewhere else. This morning, protesters staged a sit-in on the steps of Somsen Hall, the colleges administration building, but did not forcibly prevent anyone from entering or leaving the building. Marchers later stormed through a number of the campus buildings, gaining support for a general student strike. An unconfirmed report indicated that there, was a minor scuffle while demonstrators were marching through the cafeteria in the student union, but no injuries were reported there. There were no other reports of physical confrontations at any time during the day, and no injuries had been reported by 2 p.m. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 On April 23 Von Klaus moved its tasting haus into the former home of JAK Frost Frozen Yogurt. Parkers business partners, Barrel Aged LLC, bought the building, renting two upstairs lofts to tenants and the first floor to Parker. He said a street-level storefront and prominent signage will help Von Klaus continue to grow. Thats something weve struggled with for 17 years, people finding us, he said. Clingerman originally made his sweet, fruity recipes in a winery at the Farm Kitchen Restaurant. He later moved Von Klaus downtown, where it started in a small shop and later relocated to space inside an antiques store down the hall. Parker joined the winery as general manager in 2015, buying in as an owner when Clingerman died the next year. As demand for Von Klaus wines grew, Parker began thinking about expanding at a more visible location offering greater capacity. Landing at the former home of JAK Frost was a happenstance: Parker was shopping online for tables and chairs when he spotted a posting advertising the defunct frozen yogurt shops furniture for sale. He bought the tables and chairs and, within a week of checking out the building, was renting the place. A Madison man faces a seventh offense drunk driving charge after prosecutors say he drove to a gas station with a blood-alcohol level that was more than double the legal limit. Samuel Frank Martin, 44, was held on $750 cash bond during an initial appearance in Sauk County court Monday and ordered to maintain absolute sobriety if released. According to a criminal complaint, at 8:30 a.m. May 4 a Sauk County Sheriffs Office deputy observed a vehicle with large cracks in the windshield traveling on Reedsburg Road in the town of Delton. The complaint says the deputy stopped the vehicle and noticed a strong odor of intoxicants. The deputy also noted Martins eyes were bloodshot and glassy in appearance. Martin told the deputy he was going to a gas station to pick up a few things on his way back to a hotel at the Ho-Chunk Casino outside Baraboo, the complaint says. Asked how much alcohol he had consumed, Martin told the deputy he had one and a half cans of beer, the complaint says. A preliminary breath test indicated he had a blood alcohol level of 0.19 more than twice the legal limit. Its definitely a good option. We need more tradesmen and skilled labor, he said. Hes been getting work-release from school for an apprenticeship, which has been a really great experience for me, Freed said. He plans to pursue a masters program for electrical and work with The Electrician Inc. of Mount Horeb. Freed also happens to make a cameo appearance in the National Signing Day promotional video, because it used footage from the SkillsUSA national competition that Freed attended, Hanusa said. After taking almost all of the tech ed classes offered at BHS, Jayden Parchem said he decided to work in a skilled trade. He plans to attend Madison Area Technical College and work with Nu-Life Roofing & Siding of Baraboo. I kinda wanted to pursue the construction trades because I like working with my hands and building things, he said. I like feeling a sense of accomplishment when I get something done. Other students and their employers were: John Phelps, Holtz Builders Inc. of Lake Delton; Traton Winecke, JP Cullen of Madison for carpentry; Christian Ruefer, Northern Exports of Baraboo for construction; and Noah Thomte, Brute Construction of Baraboo. Several years ago while I was a member of the Baraboo School Board, a proposal was brought to offer free lunch during the summer. The challenge facing the district was the summer school program was on a sort of hiatus, and the district couldnt participate in the United States Department of Agricultures Summer Food Services Program without a corresponding summer program. Thus, the summer school offerings returned to Baraboo because it was the only way to participate in the federally funded program. I dont begrudge anyones participation in the programs as they are offered. There are families in need across the state, and across the nation. Yet, a question arises. What is the governments level of responsibility? What if the funding for these programs cannot be sustained? Ronald Reagan famously quipped, No government ever voluntarily reduces itself in size. Government programs, once launched, never disappear. Actually, a government bureau is the nearest thing to eternal life well ever see on this earth. The projects total cost would be $24,213 and the state would pay $15,961, leaving a little more than $8,000 for the city to pay. City Council President Andy Traxler said Columbus could use contingency funds from the 2019 budget for the culverts. ADA parking and bump outs The committee discussed a couple street-related items on Tuesday, including designating an ADA accessible parking space on West James Street and placing bump-outs along highways 73 and 89. Traxler said with the new Forward Pharmacy going into the Sharrows store, it would be beneficial to put ADA parking near the four corners intersection. He anticipates more traffic coming to that area. Vander Sanden said there was an ADA spot before the 2017 James Street reconstruction on the Ludington Street side. An ADA spot in the proposed space would be useful and we dont have any concerns putting that in that place, Vander Sanden said. The city is also considering adding bump-outs to the 73 and 89 intersection, which would be added to the 2022 Wisconsin Department of Transportation reconstruction plan. Lietha said the bump-outs may prevent motorists from passing on the right and also reduce heavy truck traffic. In a separate action Thursday, finance committee members voted 11-4, again along party lines, with Republicans in the majority to reject Evers plan to provide $15 million to boost state aid to counties and municipalities by 2% starting in 2020. Nygren told reporters its premature to specify how the Legislatures budget will differ from Evers. Nygren said he hopes the budget will provide some level of increased funding for schools, address reimbursement rates for health-care providers and solve the states transportation funding struggles. Assembly Republicans have been open to Evers plan to raise the gas tax by 8 cents and increase heavy truck and vehicle title fees for a $600 million funding boost for roads, bridges and transit. But as was the case in the state budget debate two years ago, Senate Republicans have said they may not be on board. Nygren said Republican lawmakers expect to have their budget on Evers desk by the end of June. The new fiscal year starts July 1. U.S. Sen. Tammy Baldwin and colleagues in the Senate introduced a bill that could hasten cleanup of toxic chemicals at Madisons Truax Air National Guard base. The bill, the PFAS Accountability Act, would encourage federal facilities such as military and National Guard bases to quickly enter into agreements with states to address the cleanup of toxic chemicals such as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS. The federal government says PFAS compounds are associated with increased risk of slowed development in children, lower fertility, hormonal disruptions, high cholesterol, immune system deficiencies and several kinds of cancer. The bill comes as a new study shows as many as 19 million people in 43 states have been exposed to PFAS-contaminated water near contaminated locations including public water systems, military bases, airports, industrial plants, dumps and firefighter training sites. Last spring, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources warned Madisons Truax Air National Guard base it could face enforcement action if it didnt move swiftly to clean up toxic chemicals that were showing up in municipal drinking water. The Columbia County Treasurers Office, the Wisconsin County Treasurers Association and the Wisconsin Department of Revenue declares the week of May 13-17 as Lottery Credit Awareness Week. The Lottery and Gaming Credit is a reduction on a residents real estate tax bill. To qualify for the lottery and gaming credit, the property owner must be a Wisconsin resident and use the dwelling as their primary residence as of the certification date, Jan. 1. If temporarily absent, typically for a period no longer than six months, it is the home to which the property owner returns. A property owner can claim only one primary residence. Rental properties are not eligible for the Lottery and Gaming Credit. Deborah Raimer, county treasurer recommends that all eligible property owners review their 2018 real estate tax bill to verify they received the lottery credit. Last year, the average lottery credit in Columbia County was about $173. The amount of the credit is based upon the school district in which the home is located. In order to receive the Lottery Credit, owners must have a signed application form on file with the county treasurer. You might have seen examples of interspecies motherhood yourself. I have. I owned a short-haired mutt, Ginger, who was spayed but had strong mothering instincts. Id gotten Ginger from the humane society the first year I moved to the Dells. When my landlord told me shed found an orphaned kitten, we put the four-week-old black kitten in Gingers dog bed. Ginger immediately licked its face and encouraged it to cuddle in. I fed the kitten from a bottle, and Ginger instinctively licked its rear end, which mother cats normally do to stimulate their youngsters digestive systems. The kitten thrived and dog and cat continued to be best friends. My cockapoo Josie bonds with the mallard ducklings my husband and I hatch and raise. Josie sticks her head in their brooder, a large container with a heat lamp, and, if allowed, will climb inside and greet them, nose to beak. She sniffs; they peck. A bond is formed. This has proven useful several times. Once the ducklings are old enough to wander around outside, they often cluster around her. If I need the ducklings, I simply call, Josie. When she comes, they follow and I can scoop them up. Freeport-McMoRan, Inc. engages in the mining of copper, gold and molybdenum. It operates through the following segments: North America Copper Mines, South America Mining; Indonesia Mining, Molybdenum Mines, Rod and Refining, Atlantic Copper Smelting and Refining and Corporate, Other and Eliminations. The North America Copper Mines segment operates open-pit copper mines in Morenci, Bagdad, Safford, Sierrita and Miami in Arizona and Chino and Tyrone in New Mexico. The South America Mining segment includes Cerro Verde in Peru and El Abra in Chile. The Indonesia Mining segment handles the operations of Grasberg minerals district that produces copper concentrate that contains significant quantities of gold and silver. The Molybdenum Mines segment includes the Henderson underground mine and Climax open-pit mine, both in Colorado. The Rod and Refining segment consists of copper conversion facilities located in North America and includes a refinery, rod mills, and a specialty copper products facility. The Atlantic Copper Smelting and Refining segment smelts and refines copper concentrate and markets refined copper and precious metals in slimes. The Corporate, Other and Eliminations segment Read More BEIJING, May 8 (Xinhua) -- China on Wednesday said it is willing to strengthen communication with the international community to push for a political solution to the Venezuela issue. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Geng Shuang made the remarks at a press briefing when responding to a reporter's question on reports that European Union (EU) foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini said the International Contact Group on Venezuela decided to establish contact with the Lima Group, the Caribbean Community, Cuba, China and Russia to create a favorable environment for resolving the political crisis in Venezuela. On the Venezuela issue, China is committed to upholding the United Nations Charter and the basic norms governing international relations, Geng said, adding the Chinese side holds that the Venezuela issue should be solved through inclusive political dialogue and consultation within the framework of the Constitution by the Venezuelan government and the opposition, and opposes external intervention and unilateral sanctions. Geng said China and the EU as well as many other countries have important consensus on the Venezuela issue, and they all stress seeking a political solution featuring inclusive dialogue, oppose military intervention and are reluctant to see the situation in Venezuela spiral out of control and affect regional peace and stability. China stands ready to strengthen communication with the international community including the EU, jointly play a constructive role and push for a political solution to the Venezuela issue, said the spokesperson. A person is silhouetted at the Spin Master toy and entertainment company in Toronto on Tuesday, January 29, 2019. Spin Master Corp. missed expectations as it swung to a large loss in the first quarter without Toys R Us sales in the United States and a later Easter this year. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Nathan Denette The following companies are subsidiares of Accenture: (Accenture Endustriyel Yazlm Cozumleri Limited Sirketi), 2nd Road, ?What If!, ?What If! China Holdings Limited, ?What If! Holdings Limited, ?What If! Limited, ACN Consulting Co Ltd, AD.Dialeto (Digital Agency acquired by Accenture), AGS Business and Technology Services Limited, AIG Shared Services Business Processing Inc, ASM Research Inc., ASM Research LLC, ATAN, Accenture (Botswana) (Proprietary) Limited, Accenture (China) Co. Ltd., Accenture (Shenzhen) Technology Co. Ltd., Accenture (South Africa) Pty Ltd, Accenture (UK) Limited, Accenture 2 Business Process Services S.A., Accenture 2 LLC, Accenture A/S, Accenture AB, Accenture AG, Accenture AS, Accenture Africa Pty Ltd, Accenture Agencia Interativa Ltda, Accenture Australia Holding B.V., Accenture Australia Holdings Pty Ltd, Accenture Australia Pty Ltd, Accenture B.V., Accenture BPM Operations Support Services S.A., Accenture BPM S.C.R.L., Accenture BPS Services S.p. z o.o., Accenture Branch Holdings B.V., Accenture Bulgaria EOOD, Accenture Business Services for Utilities Inc, Accenture Business Services of British Columbia Limited Partnership, Accenture Business and Technology Services LLC, Accenture C.A., Accenture Canada Holdings Inc, Accenture Capital Designated Activity Company, Accenture Capital Inc, Accenture Central Europe B.V., Accenture Chile Asesorias y Servicios Ltda, Accenture Cloud Services GmbH, Accenture Cloud Software Solutions Limited, Accenture Cloud Solutions Australia Pty Ltd, Accenture Cloud Solutions LLC, Accenture Cloud Solutions Pty Ltd, Accenture Co Ltd, Accenture Co. Ltd, Accenture Communications Infrastructure Solutions Ltd, Accenture Company Ltd, Accenture Consulting Pty Ltd, Accenture Consulting Services Ltd Tanzania, Accenture Consultores de Gestao S.A., Accenture Consultoria de Industria e Consumo Ltda, Accenture Consultoria de Recursos Naturais Ltda, Accenture Credit Services LLC, Accenture Customer Services Distribution SASU, Accenture Customer Services Ltd, Accenture Danismanlik Limited Sirketi, Accenture Defined Benefit Pension Plan Trustees Limited, Accenture Defined Contribution Pension Plan Trustees Limited, Accenture Delivery Poland S.p. z o.o., Accenture Dienstleistungen GmbH, Accenture Digital Holdings GmbH, Accenture East Africa Limited, Accenture Ecuador S.A., Accenture Egypt LLC, Accenture Enterprise Development (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Accenture Federal Services LLC, Accenture Finance II Limited, Accenture Finance Limited, Accenture Finance and Accounting BPO Services S.p.A., Accenture Finance and Accounting Services S.r.l., Accenture Financial Advanced Solution & Technology S.r.l., Accenture Flex LLC, Accenture GP LLC, Accenture Global Capital Designated Activity Company, Accenture Global Engagements Limited, Accenture Global Holdings Limited, Accenture Global Services Limited, Accenture Global Solutions Limited, Accenture GmbH, Accenture HR Services S.p.A., Accenture Healthcare Processing Inc, Accenture Holding Brasil Ltda, Accenture Holding GmbH & Co. KG, Accenture Holdings (Iberia) S.L., Accenture Holdings B.V., Accenture Holdings France SASU, Accenture Hungary Holdings Kft, Accenture Inc, Accenture Industrial Software Limited Liability Company, Accenture Industrial Software Solutions Kft, Accenture Industrial Software Solutions SA, Accenture Insurance Services B.V., Accenture Insurance Services LLC, Accenture International B.V., Accenture International LLC, Accenture International Limited, Accenture Japan Ltd, Accenture Korea B.V., Accenture LLC, Accenture LLP, Accenture Lanka (Private) Ltd, Accenture Limited, Accenture Lithuania UAB, Accenture Ltd, Accenture Ltda, Accenture Maghreb S.a.r.l., Accenture Managed Services SRL, Accenture Management GmbH, Accenture Marketing Services LLC, Accenture Marketing Services Limited, Accenture Middle East B.V., Accenture Minority I B.V., Accenture Mozambique Limitada, Accenture Mzansi Pty Ltd, Accenture NV/SA, Accenture NZ Limited, Accenture Nova Scotia Unlimited Liability Co., Accenture OOO, Accenture Operations GmbH, Accenture Operations S.p. z o.o., Accenture Operations Services Private Limited, Accenture Operations Services Sdn Bhd, Accenture Outsourcing S.r.l., Accenture Outsourcing Services S.A., Accenture Oy, Accenture Panama Inc, Accenture Participations B.V., Accenture Participations II Limited, Accenture Peru SRL, Accenture Post Trade Processing SASU, Accenture Post-Trade Processing Limited, Accenture Process (Mauritius) Ltd, Accenture Pte Ltd, Accenture Puerto Rico LLC, Accenture Qiyun Technology (Hangzhou) Co. Ltd, Accenture S.C., Accenture S.L., Accenture S.R.L., Accenture S.p. z o.o., Accenture S.p.A., Accenture SASU, Accenture SG Services Pte Ltd, Accenture SRL, Accenture Saudi Arabia Limited, Accenture Sdn Bhd, Accenture Service Center SRL, Accenture Services (Mauritius) Ltd, Accenture Services AB, Accenture Services AG, Accenture Services AS, Accenture Services GmbH, Accenture Services Morocco SA, Accenture Services Oy, Accenture Services Pty Ltd, Accenture Services S.p. z o.o., Accenture Services SRL, Accenture Services and Technology S.r.l., Accenture Services s.r.o., Accenture Single Member S.A. Organization Information Technology & Business Development, Accenture Solutions Co. Ltd, Accenture Solutions Private Limited, Accenture Solutions Pte Ltd, Accenture Solutions Pty Ltd, Accenture Solutions S.p. z o.o, Accenture Solutions Sdn Bhd, Accenture State Healthcare Services LLC, Accenture Sub II Inc, Accenture Sub III Inc, Accenture Sub LLC, Accenture Systems Integration Limited, Accenture Sarl, Accenture Tanacsado Kolatolt Felelossegu Tarsasag, Accenture Technology Solutions (Dalian) Co. Ltd., Accenture Technology Solutions (HK) Co. Ltd., Accenture Technology Solutions (Thailand) Co. Ltd, Accenture Technology Solutions - Solucoes Informaticas Integradas S.A., Accenture Technology Solutions GmbH, Accenture Technology Solutions Oy, Accenture Technology Solutions Pty Ltd, Accenture Technology Solutions S.A. de C.V., Accenture Technology Solutions S.r.l., Accenture Technology Solutions SASU, Accenture Technology Solutions SRL, Accenture Technology Solutions Sdn Bhd, Accenture Technology Solutions Slovakia s.r.o., Accenture Technology Ventures B.V., Accenture Technology Ventures SPRL, Accenture Tecnologia Consultoria y Outsourcing S.A., Accenture Uruguay SRL, Accenture Vietnam Co. Limited, Accenture Zambia Limited, Accenture do Brasil Ltda, Accenture plc, Accenture s.r.o., Acceria, Acquity Group, Adaptly LLC, Adaptly UK Limited, AddVal Technology, Adqptly, Advantium Inc., Advoco, Agilex Technologies Inc., Allen International, AlphaBeta Advisors, Altevie Technologies S.r.l., Altima, Altima (Beijing) Co. Ltd., Altima Asia Ltd, Altitude, Altitude LLC, Altius Consulting Limited, Altius Data Solutions Private Limited, Analytics 8 LP, Analytics 8 Pty Ltd, Analytics8, Aorui Advertising (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Apis, Apis Group Pty Ltd, Appaloosa Technology SASU, AppsPro, Arca, Arca Ingenieros y Consultoria S.L., Arca Telecom S.L., Ariba - BPO, Arismore, Artio People (Payroll) Pty Ltd, Artio People Pty Ltd, Aspiro Solutions (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd, Automation Partners Pty Ltd, Avanade (Guangzhou) Computer Technology Development Co. Ltd., Avanade Asia Pte Ltd, Avanade Australia Pty Ltd, Avanade Belgium SPRL, Avanade Canada Inc, Avanade Consulting Poland S.p. z o.o., Avanade Denmark A/S, Avanade Deutschland GmbH, Avanade Europe Holdings Limited, Avanade Europe Services Limited, Avanade Finland Oy, Avanade France SASU, Avanade Holdings LLC, Avanade Hong Kong Ltd, Avanade Inc, Avanade International Corporation, Avanade Ireland Limited, Avanade Italy S.r.l., Avanade Japan KK, Avanade Malaysia Sdn Bhd, Avanade Middle East Limited, Avanade Netherlands B.V., Avanade Norway AS, Avanade Poland S.p. z o.o., Avanade Schweiz GmbH, Avanade South Africa Pty Ltd, Avanade Spain S.L., Avanade Sweden AB, Avanade UK Limited, Avanade do Brasil Ltda, Avanade Osterreich GmbH, Avenai, Axia Ltd., BABCN LLC, BCS Consulting, BCT Solutions, BCT Solutions Pty Ltd, BENEXT, BPO Servicos Administrativos Ltda, BRIDGE Energy Group, Beacon Consulting Group Inc., Beijing Genesis Interactive Technology Co. Ltd., Beijing Zhidao Future Consulting Co. Ltd, Benext, Berico Technologies LLC, Bionic, Bionic Solution LLC, Blue Horseshoe, Boomerang Pharmaceutical Communications, Bow & Arrow, Bow & Arrow Limited, Brand Learning, Brand Learning Group Limited, Brightstep AB, Byte Prophecy, Byte Prophecy Private Limited, CAS, CRMWaypoint, CS Technology (Australia) Pty Ltd, CS Technology (UK) Limited, CS Technology Group LLC, CS Technology LLC, CadenceQuest Inc., Callisto Integration Europe B.V., Callisto Integration Europe Limited, Callisto Integration LLC, Callisto Integration Ltd, Capgemini - North American health practice, Capital Consultancy Services Inc, Certus Solutions Consulting Services Limited, Certus Solutions Ltd, ChangeTrack Research Pty Ltd., Chaotic Moon Studios, Chengdu Mensa Advertising Co. Ltd., Cimation, Cirrus Connect Australia Pty Ltd, Cirrus Connect Limited, Cirruseo, Clarity Insights, Clearhead, Clearhead Group LLC, ClientHouse GmbH, Cloud Sherpas, Cloud Sherpas (GA) LLC, Cloud Sherpas Japan G.K., Cloud Sherpas New Zealand Limited, Cloudeasier SAS, Cloudpoint Limited, Cloudsherpas Inc, Cloudworks, Cloudworks Consulting Services Inc, Cloudworks Technology LLC, Computer Research and Telecommunications LLC, Concrete Desenvolvimento de Sistemas Ltda, Concrete Solutions, Concrete Solutions Ltda, Context Information Security, Context Information Security LLC, Context Information Security Limited, CoreCompete LLC, CoreCompete Limited, CoreCompete Private Limited, Corliant Inc., Creative Drive LLC, Creative Drive US LLC, CreativeDrive, CreativeDrive Digital Content Services (Shenzhen) Co Ltd., CreativeDrive EMEA Limited, CreativeDrive Singapore Pte Ltd, CreativeDrive UK Group Limited, Cutting Edge Solutions Limited, Cygni AB, Cygni Norrsken AB, Cygni Stockholm AB, Cygni Syd AB, Cygni Vast AB, Cygni Ost AB, Cygni Ostersund AB, DAZ Systems Inc, DAZ Systems LLC, DAZSI Systems (India) Pvt. Limited, DI Futures Corporation, Data Essential SARL, Davies Consulting, DayNine Consulting, DayNine Consulting (New Zealand) Limited, DayNine Consulting LLC, Declarative Holdings LLC, Decora Marketplace LLC, Decorado Marketplace Ltda-EPP, Defense Point Security, Deja vu Security, Design Strategy and Research de Mexico S.A. de C.V., Designaffairs LLC, Digiplug S.A.S., Digital Results Group LLC, Double Digit Limitada, Double Digit Pty SA, Droga5, Droga5 LLC, Droga5 Studios LLC, Droga5 UK Limited, Duck Creek Technologies, ESR Labs, ESR Labs AG, EdenOne Solutions Limited, Edenhouse ERP Holdings Limited, Edenhouse Solutions Limited, Enaxis Consulting, Enaxis Consulting LP, End to End Analytics LLC, End-to-End Analytics, Endorphin Medici (M) Sdn Bhd, Energuia Web S.A., Energy Management Brokers Limited, EnergyQuote JHA, Enimbos, Enimbos Global Services S.L., Enkitec, Enterprise Infrastructure Solutions LLC, Enterprise System Partners, Enterprise System Partners B.V., Enterprise System Partners Bilisim Danismanlik Ticaret Anonim Sirketi, Enterprise System Partners Global Corporation, Enterprise System Partners Limited, Enthusian Pty Ltd, Entropia, Entropia (M) Sdn Bhd, Entropia Holdings Pte Ltd, Entropia Intercraft Sdn Bhd, Epylon, Espedia S.r.l., Ethica Consulting Group, Ethica Consulting S.p.A., Evopro Group, Exactside Limited, Experity, Exton Consulting, Exton Consulting Spain Strategy&Management S.L., Exton Germany GmbH, Exton International SAS, Exton Italia S.r.l., Exton SAS, FGM LLC, Fairway Technologies Inc, Farah BidCo Limited, Farah MidCo Limited, Farah Topco Limited, Filmproduction ApS, First Annapolis Consulting Inc., First Annapolis Consulting LLC, Fjord, Focus Group Europe, Formicary, Fruendo S.r.l., FusionX, Future State Consulting LLC, FutureMove (Beijing) Automotive Technology Co. Ltd., FutureMove Automotive, FutureMove Automotive Co. Ltd., GRA Supply Chain Pty Ltd, Gagel Group S de R.L. de C.V., Gapso Servicos de Informatica Ltda, Gapso Servicos de Informatica Ltda., Genfour, George Group Consulting L.P., Gestalt LLC, Gevity, Gren utvikling AS, H.B. Maynard and Co. Inc., HRC Retail Advisory, Hagberg Consulting Group, Hahntel Ltda, Halo Partners LLC, Hamilton Holding Company S.A, Hangzhou Aiyunzhe Technology Co. Ltd., Happen, Happen GP Limited, Happen Limited, Hjaltelin Stahl, Hjaltelin Stahl A/S, Hjaltelin Stahl K/S, Hytracc Consulting AS, Hytracc Consulting Malaysia Sdn Bhd, IBB Consulting, ICM.S S.r.l., IMJ Corp, IMJ Corporation, INSITUM, IQSP Consulting LLC, IT One Company Limited, ITBS Servicios Bancarios de Tecnologia de la Informacion SL, Icon Integration, Icon Integration (NZ) Limited, Icon Integration Pty Ltd, Imagine Broadband (USA) Limited, Imagine Broadband USA LLC, Imaginea Inc, Imaginea Technologies LLC, Industrie IT (Hong Kong) Ltd, Industrie IT (Singapore) Pte Ltd, Industrie IT Group Pty Ltd, Industrie IT Pty Ltd, Industrie&Co, Infinity Works Consulting Limited, Infinity Works Holdings Limited, Infinity Works Management Limited, Infinity Works Midco Limited, Informatica de Euskadi S.L., Innotec International EAD, Innotec International S.p. z.o.o., Innotec Marketing GmbH, Innotec Marketing International Ireland Limited, Innotec- Marketing Spain S.L, Insitum Consultoria Argentina SRL, Insitum Consultoria S.A. de C.V., International Biometric Group LLC, International Biometric Group UK Limited, Intrepid, Intrepid Futureworks Sdn Bhd, Intrigo Systems Inc, Intrigo Systems India Pvt. Limited, Intrigo Systems LLC, Inventor Technology Ltd, InvestTech, Investtech Systems Consulting LLC, ItSafer Continuity Services S.L., JKD Consulting LLC, Javelin Group, K Comms Group Limited, KSC Studio LLC, Kaper Communications Limited, Karma Communications Debtco Limited, Karma Communications Group Limited, Karma Communications Holdings Limited, Karmarama, Karmarama Comms Limited, Karmarama Limited, Knowledge Rules Inc., Knowledgent, Knowledgent Group LLC, Kogentix, Kogentix LLC, Kogentix Limited, Kogentix Singapore Pte Ltd, Kogentix Technologies Private Limited, Kolle Rebbe, Kolle Rebbe GmbH, Kream Comms Limited, Kunstmaan, Kurt Salmon, Kurt Salmon Canada LTD, Kurt Salmon US LLC, LEXTA, LINKBYNET, LINKBYNET Indian Ocean (L.I.O) Ltd, LabAnswer, Lexta GmbH, Lexta UK Limited, Lien par le reseau Inc, Lien par le reseau infrastructures Inc, Lin Bo (Shanghai) Network Technology Co. Ltd., Link By Net SAS, Link By Net SRL, Link By Net Vietnam Company Limited, Linkbynet East Asia Ltd, Linkbynet Singapore Pte Ltd., Loud & Clear Creative Pty Ltd, Lumenup S.A., MAXIM Systems Inc., MCG US Holdings LLC, Mackevision CG Technology and Service (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Mackevision Japan Co. Ltd., Mackevision Korea Ltd, Mackevision Medien Design, Mackevision Medien Design GmbH, Mackevision Singapore Pte Ltd, Mackevision UK Limited, Maglan, Maglan Information Defense Technologies Research Ltd, Maihiro, Matter, Maud Corp Pty Ltd, Maxamine International, Measuretek LLC, Media Audits Ltd., Media Hive, Mediasenz Pty Ltd., Meredith Specialty LLC, Meredith Xcelerated Marketing, Meredith Xcelerated Marketing LLC, Meridian Informed Purchasing Ltd., Mindtribe, Mistral Wind Operations Servicos Empresariais Unipessoal Lda., MobGen, Mortgage Cadence LLC, Mortgage Cadence an Accenture Company, Most Champion Ltd, Mudano, Mudano Limited, Myrtle Consulting Group LLC, N3 (Dalian) Business Consulting Co. Ltd., N3 Brazil Consultoria em Marketing Ltda, N3 Germany GmbH, N3 LLC, N3 North America LLC, N3 Results Australia Pty Ltd, N3 Results Ireland Limited, N3 Results Japan G.K., N3 Results Limited, N3 Results Malaysia Sdn Bhd, N3 Results Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., N3 Results S.A.S., N3 Results Singapore Pte Ltd, N3 Results Unipessoal Lda, NYTEC, Nanjing Demeng Advertising Co. Ltd., Nashco Consulting, NaviSys Inc., Nell'Armonia Israel Ltd, Nell'Armonia SAS, Nell'Participation SAS, NellArmonia, Neo Metrics Analytics S.L., Neo Metrics Chile S.A., New Content, New Content Editora e Produtora Ltda, New Energy Group, News Imaging LLC, NewsPage, NewsPage (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd, NewsPage Pte Ltd, Northstream, Novetta Holdings LLC, Novetta LLC, Novetta Solutions LLC, Novetta Topco LLC, OCTO Technology, OPS Rules Management Consultants, Octagon Research Solutions Inc., Octo Technology Pty Ltd, Octo Technology SA, Odgaard ApS, Olikka, Olikka Pty Ltd, Openmind, Openmind S.r..l., Openminded, Openminded SAS, Operaciones Accenture S.A. de C.V., OpusLine, Orbium, Orbium AG, Orbium Consulting Limited, Orbium Inc., Orbium Ltd, Orbium Pte Ltd, Orbium Pty Ltd, Origin Digital, PCO Innovation, PLM Systems S.r.l, PRION GmbH, PT Accenture, PT Asta Catur Indra, PT Kogentix Teknologi Indonesia, PacificLink Group, Paja Finanssipalvelut Oy, Parker Fitzgerald Inc, Parker Fitzgerald International Limited, Parker Fitzgerald Limited, Parker Fitzgerald PTY Ltd, Parker Fitzgerald Services Limited, Parker Fitzgerald Solutions Limited, Pecaso Ltd., Pegasus Production A/S, Pegasus Production K/S, Phase One Consulting Group, Pillar Technology, Pollux, Pollux Automation Mexico S.A. de C.V., Pollux Canada Inc, Pollux S.A.S., Pollux USA LLC, Pragsis Bidoop, Pragsis Bidoop UK Limited, Pramati Technologies Europe Limited, Pramati Technologies Private Limited, Presence of IT Workforce Management North America LLC, PrimeQ, PrimeQ Australia Pty Ltd, PrimeQ Ltd, PrimeQ NZ Pty Limited, Procurian Inc., Prof. Homburg GmbH, Proquire LLC, PureApps Ltd., Qi Jie Beijing Information Technologies Co. Ltd., RBCP Fund 1-A Vapor Blocker LLC, RBCP Platform Vapor Blocker I LLC, REPL Consulting LLC, REPL Consulting Limited, REPL Digital Limited, REPL Group K.K., REPL Group Pty Ltd, REPL Group Worldwide Limited, REPL Pte Ltd, REPL Software Limited, REPL Technology Limited, Radiant Services LLC, Random Walk Computing Inc., Reactive Media Pty Ltd., Real Protect, Realworld OO Systems Ltd., Redcore, Redcore (New Zealand) Limited, Redcore Group Holdings Pty Ltd, Redcore Pty Ltd, Revolutionary Security, RiskControl, Root LLC, Rothco, Rothco Limited, S3 TV Technology Ltd., SALT Solutions GmbH, SEC Servizi, SOPIA Corp., Sagacious Consultants, Salt Solutions, Sandbox Studio LLC, Sapling Bidco Limited, Sapling Midco Limited, Sapling Topco Limited, Schlumberger Business Consulting, Seabury Aviation & Aerospace (UK) Limited, Seabury Consulting, Seabury Corporate Advisors LLC, Seabury Malaysia Sdn Bhd, Search Technologies BPO Inc, Search Technologies International LLC, Search Technologies LLC, Search Technologies Limited, Securiview SAS, Sentelis, Sentor Managed Secuirty Services AB, Servicios Tecnicos de Programacion Accenture S.C., Seven Seas Business Ventures LLC, Shackleton, Shackleton Chile S.A., Shackleton S.L.U., Shanghai Baiyue Advertising Co. Ltd., Shun Zhe Technology Development Co. Ltd., SigInt Technologies LLC, Silveo, Silveo Consulting India Private Limited, Simian Pty Ltd, SinnerSchrader, SinnerSchrader AG, SinnerSchrader Content GmbH, SinnerSchrader Deutschland GmbH, Sirvart S.A., Sistemes Consulting S.L., Skylink SAS, Soltians Limited, Solutions IQ LLC, SolutionsIQ, SolutionsIQ India Consulting Services Private Limited, Somers Ventures Ireland Limited, Somers Ventures LLC, Spacelink SAS, Storm Digital, Structure Consulting Group LLC, Sutter Mills, Synership LLC, Systor AG, TXF LLC, TargetST8, Tech - Avanade Portugal Unipessoal Lda, Tecnilogica Ecosistemas S.A., Tecnilogica, The Brand Learning Partners Limited, The Callisto Integration Corporation, The Monkeys, The Monkeys Pty Ltd, The Myrtle Group, Total Logistics, Tquila, Trivadis, Trivadis Austria GmbH, Trivadis Denmark AS, Trivadis Germany GmbH, Trivadis Holding AG, Trivadis Partner AG, Trivadis Services AG, Trivadis Services SRL, Troop Studios Pty Ltd, VanBerlo, Vector Acquisition Company LLC, Vector Topco LLC, Verax Solutions, Vertical Retail Consulting (Shanghai) Ltd, Vertical Retail Consulting Ltd, Vivere Brasil Servicos e Solucoes SA, Vivere Brasil Solucoes De Credito Ltda., Wabion GmbH, WaveStrike LLC, White Cliffs Consulting LLC, Wire Stone, Wire Stone LLC, Wise Partners SAS, Wolox, Wolox Colombia S.A.S, Wolox LLC, Wolox Mexico S.R.L de C.V., Wolox S.A., Wolox SpA, Workforce Insight, Workforce Insight LLC, Yesler, Yesler LLC, Yesler Limited, Yesler Singapore Pte Ltd, Zag, Zag Australia Pty Ltd, Zag Limited, Zag USA LLC, Zebra Worldwide Australia Pty Ltd, Zebra Worldwide Group Limited, Zebra Worldwide Media Pty Ltd, Zenta, Zenta Global Philippines Inc, Zenta Mortgage Services LLC, Zenta Recoveries Inc, Zenta US Holdings Inc, Zielpuls, Zielpuls (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Zielpuls GmbH, avVenta, designaffairs, designaffairs Business Consulting (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., designaffairs GmbH, designaffairs group China Co. Ltd., dgroup, i4C Analytics, iDefense, solid-serVision.com GmbH, and umlaut. 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. There is not enough analysis data for Bonavista Energy Co. (BNP.TO). 3.6 Community Rank Outperform Votes Bonavista Energy Co. (BNP.TO) has received 352 outperform votes. (Add your outperform vote.) Underperform Votes Bonavista Energy Co. (BNP.TO) has received 298 underperform votes. (Add your underperform vote.) Community Sentiment Bonavista Energy Co. (BNP.TO) has received 54.15% outperform votes from our community. MarketBeat's community ratings are surveys of what our community members think about Bonavista Energy Co. (BNP.TO) and other stocks. Vote Outperform if you believe BNP will outperform the S&P 500 over the long term. Vote Underperform if you believe BNP will underperform the S&P 500 over the long term. You may vote once every thirty days. Previous Next 1+ days ago What Should You Invest in During the New Year? Investing Strategies for 2022 Going into the new year, you may wonder what you should invest in: artificial intelligence, cyclical stocks, health care? A combination of these or something else entirely? It's a great question. Read Article The following companies are subsidiares of Valero Energy: AIR BP-PBF DEL PERU SAC, BELFAST STORAGE LTD, CANADIAN ULTRAMAR COMPANY, COLONNADE TEXAS INSURANCE COMPANY LLC, COLONNADE VERMONT INSURANCE COMPANY, DIAMOND ALTERNATIVE ENERGY LLC, DIAMOND ALTERNATIVE ENERGY OF CANADA INC., DIAMOND GREEN DIESEL HOLDINGS LLC, DIAMOND GREEN DIESEL LLC, DIAMOND K RANCH LLC, DIAMOND OMEGA COMPANY L.L.C., DIAMOND SHAMROCK REFINING COMPANY L.P., DIAMOND UNIT INVESTMENTS L.L.C., DSRM NATIONAL BANK, ENTERPRISE CLAIMS MANAGEMENT INC., GCP LOGISTICS COMPANY LLC, GOLDEN EAGLE ASSURANCE LIMITED, HAMMOND MAINLINE PIPELINE LLC, HUNTWAY REFINING COMPANY, MAINLINE PIPELINES LIMITED, MAPLE ETHANOL LTD., MICHIGAN REDEVELOPMENT GP LLC, MICHIGAN REDEVELOPMENT L.P., MRP PROPERTIES COMPANY LLC, NECHES RIVER HOLDING CORP., NORCO METHANOL LLC, OCEANIC TANKERS AGENCY LIMITED, PARKWAY PIPELINE LLC, PENTA TANKS TERMINALS S.A., PI DOCK FACILITIES LLC, PICKARD PLACE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION, PORT ARTHUR COKER COMPANY L.P., PREMCOR USA INC., PROPERTY RESTORATION L.P., PURE BIOFUELS DEL PERU S.A.C., PURE BIOFUELS HOLDINGS L.P., Parkway Pipeline, Premcor, Pure Biofuels Del Peru, SABINE RIVER HOLDING CORP., SABINE RIVER LLC, SAINT BERNARD PROPERTIES COMPANY LLC, SUNBELT REFINING COMPANY L.P., THE PREMCOR PIPELINE CO., THE PREMCOR REFINING GROUP INC., THE SHAMROCK PIPE LINE CORPORATION, TRANSPORT MARITIME ST. LAURENT INC., ULTRAMAR ACCEPTANCE INC., ULTRAMAR ENERGY INC., ULTRAMAR INC., Ultramar Diamond Shamrock, V-TEX LOGISTICS LLC, VALERO (BARBADOS) SRL, VALERO (PERU) HOLDINGS GP LLC, VALERO (PERU) HOLDINGS LIMITED, VALERO ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES DE MEXICO S.A. DE C.V., VALERO ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES DE MEXICO S.A. DE C.V., VALERO ARUBA ACQUISITION COMPANY I LTD., VALERO ARUBA FINANCE INTERNATIONAL LTD., VALERO ARUBA HOLDING COMPANY N.V., VALERO ARUBA HOLDINGS INTERNATIONAL LTD., VALERO ARUBA MAINTENANCE/OPERATIONS COMPANY N.V., VALERO BROWNSVILLE TERMINAL LLC, VALERO CANADA FINANCE INC., VALERO CANADA L.P., VALERO CAPITAL CORPORATION, VALERO CARIBBEAN SERVICES COMPANY, VALERO COKER CORPORATION ARUBA N.V., VALERO CUSTOMS & TRADE SERVICES INC., VALERO EAST BAY LLC, VALERO ENERGY (IRELAND) LIMITED, VALERO ENERGY ARUBA II COMPANY, VALERO ENERGY INC., VALERO ENERGY LTD, VALERO ENERGY PARTNERS GP LLC, VALERO ENERGY PARTNERS LP, VALERO ENERGY UK LTD, VALERO ENTERPRISES INC., VALERO EQUITY SERVICES LTD, VALERO FINANCE L.P. I, VALERO FINANCE L.P. II, VALERO FINANCE L.P. III, VALERO FOREST CONTRIBUTION LLC, VALERO GRAIN MARKETING LLC, VALERO H2 PIPELINE COMPANY LLC, VALERO HOLDCO UK LTD, VALERO HOLDINGS INC., VALERO INTERNATIONAL HOLDINGS INC., VALERO LIVE OAK LLC, VALERO LOGISTICS UK LTD, VALERO MARKETING AND SUPPLY (PANAMA) LLC, VALERO MARKETING AND SUPPLY COMPANY, VALERO MARKETING AND SUPPLY DE MEXICO S.A. DE C.V., VALERO MARKETING AND SUPPLY DE MEXICO S.A. DE C.V., VALERO MARKETING AND SUPPY INTERNATIONAL LTD., VALERO MARKETING IRELAND LIMITED, VALERO MKS LOGISTICS L.L.C., VALERO NEDERLAND COOPERATIEF U.A., VALERO NEDERLAND COOPERATIEF U.A., VALERO NEW AMSTERDAM B.V., VALERO OMEGA COMPANY L.L.C., VALERO OPERATIONAL SERVICES DE MEXICO S.A. DE C.V., VALERO OPERATIONAL SERVICES DE MEXICO S.A. DE C.V., VALERO OPERATIONS SUPPORT LTD, VALERO PARTNERS CCTS LLC, VALERO PARTNERS CORPUS EAST LLC, VALERO PARTNERS CORPUS WEST LLC, VALERO PARTNERS EP LLC, VALERO PARTNERS HOUSTON LLC, VALERO PARTNERS LOUISIANA LLC, VALERO PARTNERS LUCAS LLC, VALERO PARTNERS MCKEE LLC, VALERO PARTNERS MEMPHIS LLC, VALERO PARTNERS MERAUX LLC, VALERO PARTNERS NORTH TEXAS LLC, VALERO PARTNERS OPERATING CO. LLC, VALERO PARTNERS PAPS LLC, VALERO PARTNERS PORT ARTHUR LLC, VALERO PARTNERS SOUTH TEXAS LLC, VALERO PARTNERS TEXAS CITY LLC, VALERO PARTNERS THREE RIVERS LLC, VALERO PARTNERS WEST MEMPHIS LLC, VALERO PARTNERS WEST TEXAS LLC, VALERO PARTNERS WYNNEWOOD LLC, VALERO PAYMENT SERVICES COMPANY, VALERO PEMBROKESHIRE LLC, VALERO PEMBROKESHIRE OIL TERMINAL LTD, VALERO PLAINS COMPANY LLC, VALERO POWER MARKETING LLC, VALERO RAIL OPERATIONS DE MEXICO S.A. DE C.V., VALERO RAIL OPERATIONS DE MEXICO S.A. DE C.V., VALERO RAIL PARTNERS LLC, VALERO REFINING AND MARKETING COMPANY, VALERO REFINING COMPANY-ARUBA N.V., VALERO REFINING COMPANY-CALIFORNIA, VALERO REFINING COMPANY-OKLAHOMA, VALERO REFINING COMPANY-TENNESSEE L.L.C., VALERO REFINING-MERAUX LLC, VALERO REFINING-NEW ORLEANS L.L.C., VALERO REFINING-TEXAS L.P., VALERO RENEWABLE FUELS COMPANY LLC, VALERO SECURITY SYSTEMS INC., VALERO SERVICES INC., VALERO SKELLYTOWN PIPELINE LLC, VALERO TEJAS COMPANY LLC, VALERO TERMINAL HOLDCO LTD, VALERO TERMINALING AND DISTRIBUTION COMPANY, VALERO TERMINALING AND DISTRIBUTION DE MEXICO S.A. DE C.V., VALERO TEXAS POWER MARKETING INC., VALERO ULTRAMAR HOLDINGS INC., VALERO UNIT INVESTMENTS L.L.C., VALERO WEST WALES LLC, VRG PROPERTIES COMPANY, VTD PROPERTIES COMPANY, WARSHALL COMPANY LLC, and ZELIG COMMERCIAL INC.. Capital One Financial pays an annual dividend of $2.40 per share and currently has a dividend yield of 1.67%. Capital One Financial has been increasing its dividend for 2 consecutive year(s), indicating that it does not yet have a strong track record of dividend growth. The dividend payout ratio of Capital One Financial is 8.96%. This payout ratio is at a healthy, sustainable level, below 75%. Based on earnings estimates, Capital One Financial will have a dividend payout ratio of 12.44% next year. This indicates that Capital One Financial will be able to sustain or increase its dividend. View Capital One Financial's dividend history. Seidu Mohammed speaks about his refugee claim acceptance in Winnipeg, Thursday, May 18, 2017. A man from Ghana who lost all his fingers to frostbite after crossing irregularly into Manitoba - and whose story focused attention on the border - is pleading with MPs not to pass new refugee rules in the government's budget bill. THE CANADIAN PRESS/John Woods Comptoir Group PLC owns and operates restaurants under the Comptoir Libanais and Shawa brand names in the United Kingdom. The company offers Lebanese and Eastern Mediterranean cuisine dining. As of December 31, 2019, it operated 24 restaurants and 6 franchises. The company was formerly known as Levant Restaurants Group Limited and changed its name to Comptoir Group PLC in June 2016. Comptoir Group PLC was founded in 2000 and is based in London, the United Kingdom. Read More Edgewell Personal Care Company is a manufacturer and marketer of personal care products in the wet shave, sun and skin care, feminine care and infant care categories. As of September 30, 2016, the Company had a portfolio of over 25 brands. It manages its business in four segments: Wet Shave, Sun and Skin Care, Feminine Care and All Other. Its Wet shave products are sold under the Schick, Wilkinson Sword, Edge, Skintimate, Shave Guard and Personna brand names. Its Sun and Skin Care products are sold under the Banana Boat, Hawaiian Tropic, Wet Ones and Playtex brand names and offers Wet Ones, portable hand wipes category, and Playtex household gloves, the branded household glove in the United States. Its Feminine Care segment markets its products under the Playtex, Stayfree, Carefree and o.b. brands and markets pads and liners. Its All Other segment includes infant care, pet care and miscellaneous other products. Read More iShares MSCI Emerging Markets ETF's stock was trading at $37.46 on March 11th, 2020 when COVID-19 reached pandemic status according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Since then, EEM shares have increased by 30.1% and is now trading at $48.72. View which stocks have been most impacted by COVID-19. iShares Edge MSCI Min Vol USA ETF's stock was trading at $59.53 on March 11th, 2020 when COVID-19 reached pandemic status according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Since then, USMV shares have increased by 33.8% and is now trading at $79.67. View which stocks have been most impacted by COVID-19. TC Energy Corporation operates as an energy infrastructure company in North America. It operates through Canadian Natural Gas Pipelines, U.S. Natural Gas Pipelines, Mexico Natural Gas Pipelines, Liquids Pipelines, and Power and Storage segments. The company builds and operates 93,400 km network of natural gas pipelines, which transports natural gas from supply basins to local distribution companies, power generation plants, industrial facilities, interconnecting pipelines, LNG export terminals, and other businesses. It also has regulated natural gas storage facilities with a total working gas capacity of 535 billion cubic feet. In addition, it has approximately 4,900 km liquids pipeline system that connects Alberta crude oil supplies to refining markets in Illinois, Oklahoma, Texas, and the U.S. Gulf Coast. Further, the company owns or has interests in seven power generation facilities with a combined capacity of approximately 4,200 megawatts that are powered by natural gas and nuclear fuel sources located in Alberta, Ontario, QuAbec, and New Brunswick; and owns and operates approximately 118 billion cubic feet of non-regulated natural gas storage capacity in Alberta. The company was formerly known as TransCanada Corporation and changed its name to TC Energy Corporation in May 2019. TC Energy Corporation was incorporated in 1951 and is headquartered in Calgary, Canada. Read More Huawei chief financial officer Meng Wanzhou waves as she returns home after attending a court appearance in Vancouver on Wednesday May 8, 2019. The defence team for Huawei executive Meng Wanzhou says it plans to argue that she shouldn't be extradited to the United States because she hasn't violated sanctions under Canadian laws and her arrest at Vancouver's airport was unlawful. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Darryl Dyck Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. engages in global investment banking, securities, and investment management, which provides financial services. It operates through the following business segments: Investment Banking, Global Markets, Asset Management, and Consumer & Wealth Management. The Investment Banking segment serves public and private sector clients around the world and provides financial advisory services, help companies raise capital to strengthen and grow their businesses and provide financing to corporate clients. The Global Markets segment serves its clients who buy and sell financial products, funding and manage risk. The Asset Management segment provides investment services to help clients preserve and grow their financial assets. The Consumer & Wealth Management segment helps clients to achieve their individual financial goals by providing a wealth advisory and banking services. The company was founded by Marcus Goldman in 1869 and is headquartered in New York, NY. Read More The following companies are subsidiares of Ingersoll Rand: 211 E. Russell Road LLC, Air-Relief, Belliss & Morcom Brasil, Belliss and Morcom, Boardwalk Enterprises, Charm Merger Sub Inc., CompAir, CompAir (Hankook) Korea Co. Ltd., CompAir Acquisition (No. 2) Ltd., CompAir Acquisition Ltd., CompAir BroomWade Ltd., CompAir Canada, CompAir Finance Ltd., CompAir GmbH, CompAir Holdings Limited, CompAir Holman Ltd, CompAir International Trading (Shanghai) Co Ltd, CompAir Korea Ltd, CompAir South Africa (SA) (Pty) Ltd., CompAir UK Ltd, CompAir USA, Consolidated Distribution Holdings Ltd., DV Systems Inc., Emco Wheaton, Emco Wheaton GmbH Branch, Emco Wheaton Gmbh, Emco Wheaton UK, Emco Wheaton USA Inc, Enza Air Propriety Limited (South Africa), GD Aria Holdings #2 Limited, GD Aria Holdings Limited, GD Aria Investments Limited, GD First UK Ltd, GD German Holdings GmbH, GD German Holdings I Gmbh, GD German Holdings II GmbH, GD German Investments GmbH, GD Global Holdings, GD Global Holdings II, GD Global Holdings UK II Ltd., GD Global Ventures I B.V., GD Global Ventures II B.V., GD Global Ventures III B.V., GD Industrial Products Malaysia SDN. BHD., GD Investment KY, GD UK Finance Ltd., Gardner Denver (Thailand) Co. Ltd., Gardner Denver Austria GmbH, Gardner Denver Bad Neustadt Real Estate GmbH & Co KG, Gardner Denver Belgium NV, Gardner Denver Brasil Industria E Comercio de Maquinas Ltda., Gardner Denver CZ + SK sro, Gardner Denver Canada Corp, Gardner Denver Cyprus Investments II Ltd., Gardner Denver Cyprus Investments II Ltd. - US Branch, Gardner Denver Cyprus Investments Ltd., Gardner Denver Cyprus Investments Ltd. - US Branch, Gardner Denver Deutschland GmbH, Gardner Denver Engineered Products India Private Limited, Gardner Denver FZE, Gardner Denver Finance II LLC, Gardner Denver Finance Inc & Co KG, Gardner Denver France SA, Gardner Denver France SAS, Gardner Denver Group Services Ltd, Gardner Denver Group Svcs Ltd, Gardner Denver Hoffman, Gardner Denver Holdings, Gardner Denver Holdings Limited, Gardner Denver Hong Kong Investments Limited, Gardner Denver Hong Kong Ltd, Gardner Denver Iberica, Gardner Denver Industries Ltd., Gardner Denver Industries Pty Ltd., Gardner Denver Industries Pty Ltd. Branch, Gardner Denver International, Gardner Denver International Ltd., Gardner Denver Intl Ltd Middle East Regional Rep Office, Gardner Denver Investments, Gardner Denver Italy Holdings S.r.L., Gardner Denver Japan, Gardner Denver Kirchhain Real Estate GmbH & Co KG, Gardner Denver Korea, Gardner Denver Korea Ltd, Gardner Denver Ltd, Gardner Denver Ltd South Africa, Gardner Denver Ltd., Gardner Denver Ltd. Branch (Ireland), Gardner Denver Machinery (Shanghai) Co, Gardner Denver Machinery (Shanghai) Co., Gardner Denver Nash Brasil Industria E Comercio De Bombas Ltda, Gardner Denver Nash Deutschland GmbH, Gardner Denver Nash LLC, Gardner Denver Nash Machinery Ltd, Gardner Denver Nash Machinery Ltd., Gardner Denver Nederland BV, Gardner Denver Nederland Investments B.V., Gardner Denver Oberdorfer Pumps, Gardner Denver Oy, Gardner Denver Petroleum Pumps, Gardner Denver Polska Sp z.o.o., Gardner Denver Pte Ltd., Gardner Denver S.r.l., Gardner Denver Schopfheim GmbH, Gardner Denver Schopfheim Real Estate GmbH & Co KG, Gardner Denver Schweiz AG, Gardner Denver Slovakia, Gardner Denver SudAmerica S.r.l., Gardner Denver Sweden AB, Gardner Denver Taiwan Ltd., Gardner Denver Thomas, Gardner Denver Thomas GmbH, Gardner Denver Thomas Pneumatic Systems (Wuxi) Co., Gardner Denver Thomas Real Estate GmbH & Co KG, Gardner Denver UK, Gardner Denver Water Jetting Systems, Garo Dott. Ing. Roberto Gabbioneta S.r.l., Hamworthy Belliss & Morcom, ILMVAC (UK) Ltd., ILS Innovative Labor Systeme, ILS Inovative Laborsysteme GmbH, Indonesia Foreign Trade Representative Office, LeROI, LeRoi International Inc, MP Pumps Inc., Mako Compressors, Nash, Nash Elmo, Oina VV, Oina VV Aktiebolag, Robuschi, Rotary Compression Technologies, Runtech Systems, Runtech Systems (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Runtech Systems Inc., Runtech Systems OY, Shanghai CompAir Compressors Co Ltd, Shanghai Compressors & Blowers Ltd., Syltone, TCM Investments, TIWR Real Estate GmbH & Co. KG, TODO AB, Tamrotor Marine Compressors AS, Thomas Industries, Thomas Industries Inc., Tri-Continent Scientific, Welch Vacuum Equipment (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Zinsser Analytic, Zinsser Analytik GmbH, and Zinsser NA. The following companies are subsidiares of Exxon Mobil: AKG Marketing Company Limited, Aera Energy LLC, Al-Jubail Petrochemical Company, Ampolex (Cepu) Pte Ltd, Ancon Insurance Company Inc., Barnett Gathering LLC, Barzan Gas Company Limited, Caspian Pipeline Consortium, Celtic Exploration Ltd., Coral FLNG S.A., Cross Timbers Energy LLC, Ellora Energy Inc., Esmeroon Oil Transporta Imperial Oil Limited, Esso (Thailand) Public Company Limited, Esso Australia Resources Pty Ltd, Esso Deutschland GmbH, Esso Erdgas Beteiligungsgesellschaft mbH, Esso Exploration Angola (Block 15) Limited, Esso Exploration Angola (Block 17) Limited, Esso Exploration and Production Angola (Overseas) Limited, Esso Exploration and Production Chad Inc., Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited, Esso Exploration and Production Nigeria (Deepwater) Limited, Esso Exploration and Production Nigeria (Offshore East) Limited, Esso Exploration and Production Nigeria Limited, Esso Exploration and Production UK Limited, Esso Global Investments Ltd., Esso Italiana S.r.l., Esso Nederland B.V., Esso Norge AS, Esso Petroleum Company Limited, Esso Raffinage, Esso Societe Anonyme Francaise, Exxo Holdings Inc., Exxon Azerbaijan Limited, Exxon Chemical Arabia Inc., Exxon International Finance Company, Exxon Luxembourg Holdings LLC, Exxon Mobile Bay Limited Partnership, Exxon Neftegas Limited, Exxon Overseas Corporation, Exxon Overseas Investment Corporation, ExxonMobil (China) Investment Co. Ltd., ExxonMobil (Taicang) Petroleum Co. Ltd., ExxonMobil Abu Dhabi Offshore Petroleum Company Limited, ExxonMobil Alaska Production Inc., ExxonMobil Asia Pacific Pte. Ltd., ExxonMobil Australia Pty Ltd, ExxonMobil B Resources Company, ExxonMobil Capital Finance Company, ExxonMobil Capital Netherlands B.V., ExxonMobil Central Europe Holding GmbH, ExxonMobil Cepu Limited, ExxonMobil Chemical France, ExxonMobil Chemical Gulf Coast Investments LLC, ExxonMobil Chemical Holland B.V., ExxonMobil Chemical Services (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., ExxonMobil China Petroleum & Petrochemical Company Limited, ExxonMobil Development Africa B.V., ExxonMobil Development Company, ExxonMobil Egypt (S.A.E.), ExxonMobil Exploracao Brasil Ltda., ExxonMobil Exploration and Production Malaysia Inc., ExxonMobil Exploration and Production Norway AS, ExxonMobil Exploration and Production Romania Limited, ExxonMobil Exploration and Production Tanzania Limited, ExxonMobil Finance Company Limited, ExxonMobil Financial Investment Company Limited, ExxonMobil France Holding SAS, ExxonMobil Gas Marketing Europe Limited, ExxonMobil General Finance Company, ExxonMobil Global Services Company, ExxonMobil Golden Pass Surety LLC, ExxonMobil Holding Company Holland LLC, ExxonMobil Holding Norway AS, ExxonMobil Hong Kong Limited, ExxonMobil International Services SARL, ExxonMobil Iraq Limited, ExxonMobil Italiana Gas S.r.l., ExxonMobil Kazakhstan Inc., ExxonMobil Kazakhstan Ventures Inc., ExxonMobil LNG Services B.V., ExxonMobil Lubricants Trading Company, ExxonMobil Oil Corporation, ExxonMobil PNG Limited, ExxonMobil Petroleum & Chemical BVBA, ExxonMobil Petroleum & Chemical Holdings Inc., ExxonMobil Pipeline Company, ExxonMobil Production Deutschland GmbH, ExxonMobil Production Norway Inc., ExxonMobil Qatargas (II) Limited, ExxonMobil Qatargas Inc., ExxonMobil Ras Laffan (III) Limited, ExxonMobil Rasgas Inc., ExxonMobil Research and Engineering Company, ExxonMobil Russia Kara Sea Holdings B.V., ExxonMobil Sales and Supply LLC, ExxonMobil Technology Finance Company, ExxonMobil Ventures Finance Company, ExxonMobil Ventures Funding Ltd., Fujian Refining & Petrochemical Co. Ltd., Golden Pass LNG Terminal Investments LLC, Golden Pass LNG Terminal LLC, Gulf Coast Growth Ventures LLC, Imperial Oil Limited, Imperial Oil Resources Limited, Imperial Oil Resources N.W.T. Limited, Imperial Oil/Petroliere Imperiale, Infineum Italia s.r.I., Infineum Singapore Pte. Ltd., InterOil Corporation, Jurong Aromatics Corporation Pte Ltd, MPM Lubricants, Marine Well Containment Company LLC, Mobil Australia Resources Company Pty Limited, Mobil California Exploration & Producing Asset Company, Mobil Caspian Pipeline Company, Mobil Chemical Products International Inc., Mobil Corporation, Mobil Equatorial Guinea Inc., Mobil Erdgas Verwaltungsgesellschaft mbH, Mobil Exploration & Producing Australia Pty Ltd, Mobil International Petroleum Corporation, Mobil Oil Australia Pty Ltd, Mobil Oil Exploration & Producing Southeast Inc., Mobil Oil New Zealand Limited, Mobil Producing Nigeria Unlimited, Mobil Producing Texas & New Mexico Inc., Mobil SerLimited, Mobil Venezolana De Petroleos Inc., Mobil Yanbu Petrochemical Company Inc., Mobil Yanbu Refining Company Inc., Mountain Gathering LLC, Mozambique Rovuma Venture S.p.A., Palmetto Transoceanic LLC, Papua New Guinea Liquefied Natural Gas Global Company LDC, Permian Express Partners LLC, Phillips Exploration LLC, Qatar Liquefied Gas Company Limited, Ras Laffan Liquefied Natural Gas Company Limited, Ras Laffan Liquefied Natural Gas Company Limited (II), SPI Limited, Saudi Aramco Mobil Refinery Company Ltd., Saudi Yanbu Petrochemical Co., SeaRiver Maritime Inc., South Hook LNG Terminal Company Limited, Tengizchevroil LLP, Terminale GNL Adriatico S.r.l, Trend Gathering & Treating LLC, Wolverine Pipe Line Company, XH LLC, XTO Delaware Basin LLC, XTO ENERGY, XTO Energy Canada, and XTO Holdings LLC. iShares S&P SmallCap 600 ETF's stock was trading at $62.31 on March 11th, 2020 when COVID-19 reached pandemic status according to the World Health Organization. Since then, IJR stock has increased by 81.9% and is now trading at $113.33. View which stocks have been most impacted by COVID-19. Nuveen Connecticut Quality Municipal Income Fund is a closed ended fixed income mutual fund launched by Nuveen Investments, Inc. The fund is managed by Nuveen Fund Advisors LLC and Nuveen Asset Management, LLC. It invests in the fixed income markets of Connecticut. The fund invests into undervalued municipal securities and other related investments the income from which is exempt from regular federal and Connecticut income taxes. It seeks to invest in investment grade securities with an average maturity of around 17 years. The fund employs fundamental analysis with a focus on bottom-up stock picking approach to create its portfolio. It benchmarks the performance of its portfolio against Standard & Poor's (S&P) Connecticut Municipal Bond Index and Standard & Poor's (S&P) National Municipal Bond Index. The fund was formerly known as Nuveen Connecticut Premium Income Municipal Fund. Nuveen Connecticut Quality Municipal Income Fund was formed on January 12, 1993 and is domiciled in the United States. Read More We're always interested in hearing about news in our community. Let us know what's going on! Go to form Oasis Petroleum Inc., an independent exploration and production company, focuses on the acquisition and development of onshore unconventional oil and natural gas resources in the United States. It operates through Exploration and Production(E&P), and Midstream segments. The E&P segment engages in the acquisition and development of oil and gas properties. The Midstream segment offers midstream services, such as natural gas gathering, compression, processing and, gas lift supply; crude oil gathering, terminaling, and transportation; produced and flowback water gathering, and disposal; and water distribution. As of December 31, 2020, the company had 401,766 net leasehold acres in the Williston Basin; and 24,396 net leasehold acres in the Permian Basin, as well as approximately 152.2 million barrels of oil equivalent of estimated net proved reserves. The company sells its crude oil and natural gas to refiners, marketers, and other purchasers that have access to pipeline and rail facilities. Oasis Petroleum Inc. was founded in 2007 and is headquartered in Houston, Texas. Read More The following companies are subsidiares of Procter & Gamble: "Procter & Gamble Services" LLC, "Procter & Gamble" LLC, Agile Pursuits, Agile Pursuits Franchising, Arbora, Arbora & Ausonia, Arborinvest, Billie, Braun (Shanghai) Co., Braun GmbH, Braun-Gillette Immobilien GmbH & Co. KG, Celtic Insurance Company, Compania Procter & Gamble Mexico, Compania Quimica S.A., Corporativo Procter & Gamble, Cosmetic Products Pty. Ltd., Detergent Products B.V., Detergent Products SARL, Detergenti S.A., Eurocos Cosmetic GmbH, FPG Oleochemicals Sdn. Bhd., Fameccanica Data S.p.A., Fameccanica Industria e Comercio Do Brasil LTDA., Fameccanica Machinery (Shanghai) Co., Fater S.p.A., Fountain Square Music Publishing Co., Gillette (China) Ltd., Gillette (Shanghai) Ltd., Gillette Aesop Ltd., Gillette Australia Pty. Ltd., Gillette Canada Holdings, Gillette Commercial Operations North America, Gillette Diversified Operations Pvt. Ltd., Gillette Egypt S.A.E., Gillette Group UK Ltd, Gillette Gruppe Deutschland GmbH & Co. oHG, Gillette Holding Company LLC, Gillette Holding GmbH, Gillette India Limited, Gillette Industries Ltd., Gillette International B.V., Gillette Latin America Holding B.V., Gillette Management LLC, Gillette Nova Scotia Company, Gillette Pakistan Limited, Gillette Poland International Sp. z.o.o., Gillette Poland S.A., Gillette U.K. Limited, Gillette del Uruguay, Giorgio Beverly Hills Inc., Hyginett KFT, Industries Marocaines Modernes SA, LLC "Procter & Gamble Novomoskovsk", LLL "Procter & Gamble Distributorskaya Compania", Laboratorios Vicks, Liberty Street Music Publishing Company, Limited Liability Company 'Procter & Gamble Trading Ukraine', Limited Liability Company with foreign investments Procter & and Gamble Ukraine, MDVIP, MERCK KGAA NPV, Marcvenca Inversiones, Modern Industries Company - Dammam, Modern Products Company - Jeddah, New Chapter, New Chapter Canada Inc., Olay LLC, Oral-B Laboratories, P&G Distribution Morocco SAS, P&G Hair Care Holding, P&G Industrial Peru S.R.L., P&G Innovation Godo Kaisha, P&G Israel M.D.O. Ltd., P&G K.K., P&G Northeast Asia Pte. Ltd., P&G Prestige Godo Kaisha, P&G Prestige Service GmbH, P&G South African Trading (Pty.) Ltd., PGT Health Care (Zhejiang) Limited, PGT Healthcare LLP, PPI ZAO, PT Procter & Gamble Home Products Indonesia, PT Procter & Gamble Operations Indonesia, Phase II Holdings Corporation, Procter & Gamble (Chengdu) Ltd., Procter & Gamble (China) Ltd., Procter & Gamble (China) Sales Co. Ltd., Procter & Gamble (East Africa) Limited, Procter & Gamble (Egypt) Manufacturing Company, Procter & Gamble (Enterprise Fund) Limited, Procter & Gamble (Guangzhou) Consumer Products Co. Ltd., Procter & Gamble (Guangzhou) Enterprise Management Service Company Limited, Procter & Gamble (Guangzhou) Ltd., Procter & Gamble (Health & Beauty Care) Limited, Procter & Gamble (Jiangsu) Ltd. China, Procter & Gamble (L&CP) Limited, Procter & Gamble (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd, Procter & Gamble (Manufacturing) Ireland Limited, Procter & Gamble (Shanghai) International Trade Company Ltd., Procter & Gamble (Singapore) Pte. Ltd., Procter & Gamble Acquisition GmbH, Procter & Gamble Administration GmbH, Procter & Gamble Algeria EURL, Procter & Gamble Amazon Holding B.V., Procter & Gamble Amiens S.A.S., Procter & Gamble Argentina SRL, Procter & Gamble Asia Pte. Ltd., Procter & Gamble Australia Proprietary Limited, Procter & Gamble Azerbaijan Services LLC, Procter & Gamble Bangladesh Private Ltd., Procter & Gamble Blois S.A.S., Procter & Gamble Brazil Holdings B.V., Procter & Gamble Bulgaria EOOD, Procter & Gamble Business Services Canada Company, Procter & Gamble Canada Holding B.V., Procter & Gamble Chile , Procter & Gamble Chile Limitada, Procter & Gamble Colombia Ltda., Procter & Gamble Commercial LLC, Procter & Gamble Commercial de Cuba S.A., Procter & Gamble Czech Republic s.r.o., Procter & Gamble DS Polska Sp. z o.o., Procter & Gamble Danmark ApS, Procter & Gamble Detergent (Beijing) Ltd., Procter & Gamble Deuttschland GmbH, Procter & Gamble Distributing (Philippines) Inc., Procter & Gamble Distributing New Zealand Limited, Procter & Gamble Distribution Company (Europe) BVBA, Procter & Gamble Distribution S.R.L., Procter & Gamble Eastern Europe, Procter & Gamble Ecuador Cia. Ltda., Procter & Gamble Egypt, Procter & Gamble Egypt Distribution, Procter & Gamble Egypt Holding, Procter & Gamble Egypt Supplies, Procter & Gamble Energy Company LLC, Procter & Gamble Espana, Procter & Gamble Europe SA, Procter & Gamble Export Operations SARL, Procter & Gamble Exportadora e Importadora Ltda., Procter & Gamble Exports, Procter & Gamble Fabricacao e Comercio Ltda., Procter & Gamble Far East, Procter & Gamble Finance (U.K.) Ltd., Procter & Gamble Finance Holding Ltd., Procter & Gamble Finance Management S.a.r.l., Procter & Gamble Financial Investments LLP, Procter & Gamble Financial Services Ltd., Procter & Gamble Financial Services S.a.r.l., Procter & Gamble Finland OY, Procter & Gamble France S.A.S., Procter & Gamble Germany GmbH, Procter & Gamble Germany GmbH & Co. Operations oHG, Procter & Gamble GmbH, Procter & Gamble Grundstucks-und Vermogensverwaltungs GmbH & Co. KG, Procter & Gamble Gulf FZE, Procter & Gamble Hair Care, Procter & Gamble Hellas Ltd., Procter & Gamble Holding (Thailand) Limited, Procter & Gamble Holding France S.A.S., Procter & Gamble Holding GmbH, Procter & Gamble Holding S.r.l., Procter & Gamble Holdings (UK) Ltd., Procter & Gamble Home Products Private Limited, Procter & Gamble Hong Kong Limited, Procter & Gamble Hungary Wholesale Trading Partnership (KKT), Procter & Gamble Hygiene & Health Care Limited, Procter & Gamble Inc., Procter & Gamble India Holdings, Procter & Gamble Indochina Limited Company, Procter & Gamble Industrial - 2012 C.A., Procter & Gamble Industrial Colombia Ltda., Procter & Gamble Industrial S.C.A., Procter & Gamble Industrial e Comercial Ltda., Procter & Gamble Interamericas de Costa Rica, Procter & Gamble Interamericas de Guatemala, Procter & Gamble Interamericas de Panama, Procter & Gamble International Operations Pte. Ltd., Procter & Gamble International Operations SA, Procter & Gamble International Operations SA-ROHQ, Procter & Gamble International S.a.r.l., Procter & Gamble Investment Company (UK) Ltd., Procter & Gamble Investment GmbH, Procter & Gamble Italia, Procter & Gamble Japan K.K., Procter & Gamble Kazakhstan Distribution LLP, Procter & Gamble Kazakhstan LLP, Procter & Gamble Korea, Procter & Gamble Korea S&D Co., Procter & Gamble Lanka Private Ltd. Sri Lanka, Procter & Gamble Leasing LLC, Procter & Gamble Levant S.A.L., Procter & Gamble Limited, Procter & Gamble Manufacturing (Thailand) Limited, Procter & Gamble Manufacturing (Tianjin) Co. Ltd., Procter & Gamble Manufacturing Belgium N.V., Procter & Gamble Manufacturing Berlin GmbH, Procter & Gamble Manufacturing GmbH, Procter & Gamble Manufacturing Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., Procter & Gamble Manufacturing SA (Pty) Ltd, Procter & Gamble Marketing Romania SRL, Procter & Gamble Marketing and Services doo, Procter & Gamble Maroc SA, Procter & Gamble Mataro, Procter & Gamble Mexico Holding B.V., Procter & Gamble Mexico Inc., Procter & Gamble Middle East FZE, Procter & Gamble Nederland B.V., Procter & Gamble Netherlands Investments B.V., Procter & Gamble Netherlands Services B.V., Procter & Gamble Nigeria Limited, Procter & Gamble Nordic, Procter & Gamble Norge AS, Procter & Gamble Operations Polska Sp. z o.o., Procter & Gamble Overseas India B.V., Procter & Gamble Overseas Ltd., Procter & Gamble Pakistan (Private) Limited, Procter & Gamble Partnership LLP, Procter & Gamble Peru S.R.L., Procter & Gamble Pharmaceuticals France SAS, Procter & Gamble Philippines, Procter & Gamble Polska Sp. z o.o, Procter & Gamble Portugal - Produtos De Consumo, Procter & Gamble Product Supply (U.K.) Limited U.K., Procter & Gamble Production GmbH, Procter & Gamble Productions, Procter & Gamble Productos de Consumo, Procter & Gamble RHD, Procter & Gamble RSC Regional Service Company Ltd., Procter & Gamble Retail Services BVBA, Procter & Gamble S.r.l., Procter & Gamble SA (Pty) Ltd, Procter & Gamble Satis ve Dagitim Ltd. Sti., Procter & Gamble Seine S.A.S., Procter & Gamble Service GmbH, Procter & Gamble Services (Switzerland) SA, Procter & Gamble Services Company N.V., Procter & Gamble Services Ltd., Procter & Gamble Share Incentive Plan Trustee Ltd., Procter & Gamble South America Holding B.V., Procter & Gamble Spol. s.r.o. (Ltd.), Procter & Gamble Sports and Social Club Ltd., Procter & Gamble Sverige AB, Procter & Gamble Switzerland SARL, Procter & Gamble Taiwan Limited, Procter & Gamble Taiwan Sales Company Limited, Procter & Gamble Technical Centres Limited, Procter & Gamble Technology (Beijing) Co., Procter & Gamble Trading (Thailand) Limited, Procter & Gamble Tuketim Mallari Sanayii A.S., Procter & Gamble UK, Procter & Gamble UK Group Holdings Ltd, Procter & Gamble UK Parent Company Ltd., Procter & Gamble Universal Holding B.V., Procter & Gamble Verwaltungs GmbH, Procter & Gamble Vietnam, Procter & Gamble d.o.o. za trgovinu, Procter & Gamble de Venezuela S.C.A., Procter & Gamble de Venezuela S.R.L., Procter & Gamble do Brasil S/A, Procter & Gamble do Brazil, Procter & Gamble do Nordeste S/A, Procter & Gamble-Rakona s.r.o., Progam Realty & Development Corporation, Redmond Products, Richardson-Vicks Real Estate Inc., Richardson-Vicks do Brasil Quimica e Farmaceutica Ltda, Riverfront Music Publishing Co., Rosemount LLC, SPD Development Company Limited, SPD Swiss Precision Diagnostics GmbH, Scannon S.A.S., Series Acquisition B.V., Shulton, Surfac S.R.L., Sycamore Productions, TAOS - FL, TAOS Retail, Tambrands Inc., Temple Trees Impex & Investment Private Limited, The Art of Shaving - FL, The Dover Wipes Company, The Gillette Company, The Gillette Company LLC, The Gillette co., The Procter & Gamble Distributing LLC, The Procter & Gamble GBS Company, The Procter & Gamble Global Finance Company, The Procter & Gamble Manufacturing Company, The Procter & Gamble Paper Products Company, The Procter & Gamble U.S. Business Services Company, This is L., US CD LLC, Vidal Sassoon (Shanghai) Academy, Vidal Sassoon Co., WEBA Betriebsrenten-Verwaltungsgesellschaft mbH, Walker & Company Brands, and iMFLUX Inc.. The following companies are subsidiares of Hyatt Hotels: CHANCELLOR STREET CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION INC., GLENDALE HOTEL PROPERTIES L.L.C., HT-SEATTLE HOLDINGS LLC, 1379919 ALBERTA INC., 319168 ONTARIO LIMITED, 3385434 CANADA INC., ADMINISTRACION DE PERSONAL ANDARES S. DE R.L. DE C.V., AIC HOLDING CO., AIRPORT PLAZA ASSOCIATES LIMITED PARTNERSHIP, AIRPORT PLAZA HOTEL LLC, AIRPORT PLAZA OFFICE BUILDING LIMITED PARTNERSHIP, AMERISUITES FRANCHISING L.L.C., ARANCIA LIMITED, ARUBA BEACHFRONT RESORTS LIMITED PARTNERSHIP, ARUBA BEACHFRONT RESORTS N.V., ASIA HOSPITALITY INC., ASIA HOSPITALITY INVESTORS B.V., ASIAN HOTEL N.V., ATRIUM HOTEL L.L.C., AUSTIN RESORT BEVERAGE LLC, AmeriSuites Hotel, BAKU HOTEL COMPANY - AZERI, BAKU HOTEL COMPANY - CAYMAN, BASTROP MARKETING L.L.C., BAY II INVESTOR INC., BELLEVUE ASSOCIATES, BH PLAZA LLC, BRE/AMERISUITES PROPERTIES L.L.C., BRE/AMERISUITES TXNC GP L.L.C., BRE/AMERISUITES TXNC PROPERTIES L.P., BURVAN HOTEL ASSOCIATES, CAL-HARBOR SO. PIER URBAN RENEWAL ASSOCIATES L.P., CELAYA RESORTS S. DE R.L. DE C.V., CHESAPEAKE COMMUNITIES LLC, CHESAPEAKE RESORT LLC, CIUDAD DEL CARMEN DIAMANTE RESORT S. DE R.L. DE C.V, COAST BEACH L.L.C., COMPAGNIE HOTELIERE DE LAGON BLEU, CPM SEATTLE HOTELS L.L.C., CRW INVESTMENT LLC, CTR INTEREST HOLDCO INC., DALLAS REGENCY LLC, DENVER DOWNTOWN HOTEL PARTNERS LLC, DESARROLLADORA HOTELERA ACUEDUCTO S. DE R.L. DE C.V., DH BEVERAGE LLC, DIAMANTE RESORT LA PAZ S. DE R.L. DE C.V., DISTRICT HOTEL PARTNERS LLC, EXHALE ENTERPRISES GIFT SERVICES COMPANY, EXHALE ENTERPRISES II L.L.C., EXHALE ENTERPRISES III INC., EXHALE ENTERPRISES IV L.L.C., EXHALE ENTERPRISES L.L.C., EXHALE ENTERPRISES V L.L.C., EXHALE ENTERPRISES VIII INC., EXHALE ENTERPRISES X INC., EXHALE ENTERPRISES XII L.L.C., EXHALE ENTERPRISES XIV L.L.C., EXHALE ENTERPRISES XIX L.L.C., EXHALE ENTERPRISES XV L.L.C., EXHALE ENTERPRISES XV TCI LTD., EXHALE ENTERPRISES XVI L.L.C., EXHALE ENTERPRISES XVII L.L.C., EXHALE ENTERPRISES XVIII L.L.C., EXHALE ENTERPRISES XX L.L.C., EXHALE ENTERPRISES XXI INC., EXHALE ENTERPRISES XXIV L.L.C., EXHALE ENTERPRISES XXV L.L.C., EXHALE ENTERPRISES XXVI L.L.C., EXHALE ENTERPRISES XXVII L.L.C., EXHALE ENTERPRISES XXVIII L.L.C., EXHALE ENTERPRISES XXXI L.L.C., EXHALE ENTERPRISES XXXII L.L.C., EXHALE ENTERPRISES XXXIII INC., FAN PIER L.L.C., FAR EAST HOTELS INC., G.E.H. PROPERTIES LIMITED, GAINEY DRIVE ASSOCIATES, GALAXY AEROSPACE COMPANY LLC, GHE HOLDINGS LIMITED, GRAND HYATT BERLIN GMBH, GRAND HYATT DFW BEVERAGE LLC, GRAND HYATT SAN ANTONIO L.L.C., GRAND HYATT SF L.L.C., GRAND RIVERWALK BEVERAGE LLC, GRAND TORONTO CORP., GRAND TORONTO VENTURE L.P., GREENWICH HOTEL LIMITED PARTNERSHIP, H.E. ATLANTA CENTENNIAL PARK HOLDINGS L.L.C., H.E. AUSTIN L.L.C., H.E. BERMUDA L.L.C., H.E. CAP CANA L.L.C., H.E. DRISKILL LLC, H.E. GRAND CYPRESS L.L.C., H.E. IRVINE L.L.C., H.E. KANSAS CITY L.L.C., H.E. LENOX L.L.C., H.E. NASHVILLE L.L.C., H.E. NEWPORT L.L.C., H.E. ORLANDO L.L.C., H.E. PHILADELPHIA HC HOLDINGS L.L.C., H.E. PHILADELPHIA HC HOTEL L.L.C., H.E. PHILADELPHIA HC PARKING L.L.C., H.E. PHILADELPHIA HC RETAIL L.L.C., H.E. PHILADELPHIA SANSOM L.L.C., H.E. PORTLAND HC L.L.C., H.E. PORTLAND L.L.C., H.E. PROPERTIES HOLDING L.L.C., H.E. PROPERTIES L.L.C., H.E. SAN ANTONIO I L.L.C., H.E. SAN ANTONIO L.L.C., H.E. TUCSON HOLDINGS L.L.C., H.E. TUCSON JV HOLDINGS L.L.C., H.E. TUCSON JV L.L.C., H.E. TUCSON OWNER L.L.C., HAPP INVESTOR LTD., HARBORSIDE HOTEL LLC, HARBORSIDE LAND LLC, HC PORTLAND JV HOLDINGS L.L.C., HC ROYAL PALMS L.L.C., HCV CINCINNATI HOTEL L.L.C., HE ORLANDO HOTEL LLC, HGP (TRAVEL) LIMITED, HH NASHVILLE HOLDINGS L.L.C., HH NASHVILLE JV HOLDINGS L.L.C., HH PORTLAND L.L.C., HHMA BURLINGTON BEVERAGE L.L.C., HI HOLDINGS (SWITZERLAND) GMBH, HI HOLDINGS BAJA B.V., HI HOLDINGS BRAZIL S.A.R.L., HI HOLDINGS CELAYA B.V., HI HOLDINGS CIUDAD DEL CARMEN B.V., HI HOLDINGS CYPRUS LIMITED, HI HOLDINGS CYPRUS-INDIA LIMITED, HI HOLDINGS GUADALAJARA B.V., HI HOLDINGS HP CABO B.V., HI HOLDINGS HP TIJUANA HOTEL B.V., HI HOLDINGS KYOTO CO., HI HOLDINGS LA PAZ B.V., HI HOLDINGS LATIN AMERICA B.V., HI HOLDINGS NETHERLANDS B.V., HI HOLDINGS PLAYA B.V., HI HOLDINGS RIO S.A.R.L., HI HOLDINGS RIVIERA MAYA B.V., HI HOLDINGS VIENNA S.A.R.L., HI HOLDINGS ZURICH S.A.R.L., HI HOTEL ADVISORY SERVICES GMBH, HI HOTEL INVESTORS CYPRUS LIMITED, HIHCL AMSTERDAM B.V., HIHCL HP AMSTERDAM AIRPORT B.V., HIHCL HR AMSTERDAM B.V., HILP HOTEL SERVICE PROVIDER LLC, HOTEL AM BELVEDERE HOLDING GMBH, HOTEL AM BELVEDERE HOLDING GMBH & CO KG, HOTEL INVESTMENTS HOLDING CO LLC, HOTEL INVESTMENTS L.L.C., HOTEL INVESTORS I INC., HOTEL INVESTORS II INC., HOTEL PROJECT SYSTEMS PTE LTD, HOTEL SERVICES CIUDAD DEL CARMEN S. DE R.L. DE C.V., HOTELS CS CELAYA S. DE R.L. DE C.V., HP ATLANTA CENTENNIAL PARK JV LLC, HP AUSTIN L.L.C., HP BEVERAGE DALLAS DFW AIRPORT LLC, HP BEVERAGE SUGAR LAND LLC, HP BOSTON HOLDINGS L.L.C., HP GLENDALE JV HOLDINGS L.L.C., HP GLENDALE L.L.C., HP INDIA HOLDINGS LIMITED, HP LAS VEGAS BEVERAGE L.L.C., HP M STREET L.L.C., HP ROUTE 46 TEXAS LLC, HP SAN FRANCISCO L.L.C., HP SAN JUAN L.L.C., HP TEN TEXAS LLC, HPHH ATLANTA L.L.C., HPHH DENVER L.L.C., HPHH SAN JOSE JV HOLDINGS L.L.C., HPHH SAN JOSE L.L.C., HQ CHESAPEAKE LLC, HR LOST PINES RESORT LLC, HR MC HOTEL COMPANY S. DE R.L. DE C.V., HR MC SERVICES II S. DE R.L. DE C.V., HR MC SERVICES S. DE R.L. DE C.V., HRHC LLC, HT- WAILEA LLC, HT-AVENDRA GROUP HOLDINGS L.L.C., HT-AVENDRA L.L.C., HT-CHESAPEAKE COMMUNITIES INC., HT-CHESAPEAKE RESORT INC., HT-HOTEL EQUITIES INC., HT-HUNTINGTON BEACH INC., HT-JERSEY PIER INC., HT-JERSEY PIER L.P., HT-JERSEY PIER LLC, HT-LONG BEACH L.L.C., HT-MIAMI BEACH L.L.C., HT-PARK 57 INC., HT-SEATTLE LLC, HT-SIERRA L.L.C., HT-VANCOUVER INC., HTLB L.L.C., HTS - NS L.L.C., HTS - NY L.L.C., HTS-ASPEN L.L.C., HTS-BC INC., HTS-INVESTMENT L L.C., HTSF L.L.C., HTW BEVERAGE LLC, HY LONG BEACH HOTEL LLC, HYATT (BARBADOS) CORPORATION, HYATT (JAPAN) CO. LTD., HYATT (THAILAND) LIMITED, HYATT ARUBA N.V., HYATT ASIA PACIFIC HOLDINGS LIMITED, HYATT AUSTRALIA HOTEL MANAGEMENT PTY LIMITED, HYATT AUSTRIA GMBH, HYATT BEACH FRONT N.V., HYATT BORNEO MANAGEMENT SERVICES LIMITED, HYATT BRITANNIA CORPORATION LTD., HYATT CC OFFICE CORP., HYATT CHAIN SERVICES LIMITED, HYATT CRYSTAL CITY LLC., HYATT CURACAO N.V., HYATT DISASTER RELIEF FUND, HYATT DO BRASIL PARTICIPACOES LTDA, HYATT EQUITIES L.L.C., HYATT FOREIGN EMPLOYMENT SERVICES INC., HYATT FRANCHISING CANADA CORP., HYATT FRANCHISING L.L.C., HYATT FRANCHISING LATIN AMERICA L.L.C., HYATT FULFILLMENT OF MARYLAND INC., HYATT GLOBAL SERVICES INC., HYATT GTLD L.L.C., HYATT HOC INC., HYATT HOLDINGS (UK) LIMITED, HYATT HOSPITALITY SERVICES L.L.C., HYATT HOTEL MANAGEMENT LIMITED, HYATT HOTELS CONSULTANCY SERVICES ASIA PACIFIC LIMITED, HYATT HOTELS CORPORATION OF KANSAS, HYATT HOTELS CORPORATION OF MARYLAND, HYATT HOTELS FOUNDATION, HYATT HOTELS MANAGEMENT CORPORATION, HYATT HOTELS OF CANADA INC., HYATT HOTELS OF FLORIDA INC., HYATT HOTELS OF PUERTO RICO INC., HYATT HOUSE CANADA INC., HYATT HOUSE FRANCHISING L.L.C., HYATT HOUSE HOTEL HOLDING COMPANY L.L.C., HYATT INDIA CONSULTANCY PRIVATE LIMITED, HYATT INTERNATIONAL (ASIA) LIMITED, HYATT INTERNATIONAL (EUROPE AFRICA MIDDLE EAST) LLC, HYATT INTERNATIONAL - JAPAN LIMITED, HYATT INTERNATIONAL - SOUTHWEST ASIA LIMITED, HYATT INTERNATIONAL -ASIA PACIFIC LIMITED, HYATT INTERNATIONAL -SEA (PTE) LIMITED, HYATT INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION, HYATT INTERNATIONAL HOLDINGS CO., HYATT INTERNATIONAL HOTEL MANAGEMENT (BEIJING) CO. LTD., HYATT INTERNATIONAL MILAN L.L.C., HYATT INTERNATIONAL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT (BEIJING) CO. LTD., HYATT INTERNATIONAL TECHNICAL SERVICES INC., HYATT JV HOLDINGS L.L.C., HYATT LACSA SERVICES INC., HYATT LOUISIANA L.L.C., HYATT MAINZ GMBH, HYATT MARKETING SERVICES INC., HYATT MARKETING SERVICES NIGERIA COMPANY LIMITED, HYATT MINNEAPOLIS LLC, HYATT MINORITY INVESTMENTS INC., HYATT MSS L.L.C., HYATT NORTH AMERICA MANAGEMENT SERVICES INC., HYATT OF AUSTRALIA LIMITED, HYATT OF BAJA S. DE R.L. DE C.V., HYATT OF CHINA LIMITED, HYATT OF FRANCE S.A.R.L., HYATT OF GUAM LIMITED, HYATT OF ITALY S.R.L., HYATT OF LATIN AMERICA AND CARIBBEAN L.L.C., HYATT OF LATIN AMERICA S.A. DE C.V., HYATT OF MACAU LIMITED, HYATT OF MEXICO S.A. DE C.V., HYATT OF PHILIPPINES LIMITED, HYATT PARTNERSHIP INTERESTS L.L.C., HYATT PLACE ANNE ARUNDEL BEVERAGE INC., HYATT PLACE CANADA CORPORATION, HYATT PLACE FRANCHISING L.L.C., HYATT PLACE OF MARYLAND INC., HYATT REGENCY COLOGNE GMBH, HYATT REGENCY CORPORATION PTY. LIMITED, HYATT SERVICES AUSTRALIA PTY LIMITED, HYATT SERVICES CANADA INC., HYATT SERVICES CARIBBEAN L.L.C., HYATT SERVICES GMBH, HYATT SERVICES INDIA PRIVATE LIMITED, HYATT SHARED SERVICE CENTER L.L.C., HYATT TRINIDAD LIMITED, HYCANADA INC., HYCARD INC., HYSTAR L.L.C., Hyatt Corporation, INFORMATION SERVICES LIMITED, INTERNATIONAL RESERVATIONS LIMITED, JOINT VENTURE ITALKYR CLOSED JOINT STOCK COMPANY, JUNIPER HOTELS PRIVATE LIMITED, KSA MANAGEMENT INC., KYOTO HOLDING CO., LHR-PARTNERS LTD., LORING PARK ASSOCIATES LIMITED PARTNERSHIP, LOST PINES BEVERAGE LLC, MACAE PARTNERS S.A.R.L., MAHIMA HOLDINGS PRIVATE LIMITED, MARION RESERVATION CENTER L.L.C., MEXICO CITY HOTEL INVESTMENTS B.V., MILAN HOTEL INVESTMENTS B.V., MIRAVAL ARIZONA GUARANTOR LLC, MIRAVAL GROUP LLC, MIRAVAL RESORT ARIZONA HOLDINGS LLC, MIRAVAL RESORT ARIZONA LLC, MIRAVAL RESORT ARIZONA OPERATING CO. INC., MIRAVAL RESORT TUCSON LLC, MONROE MR HOLDINGS I LLC, MONROE MR HOLDINGS II LLC, MONROE MR HOLDINGS III LLC, MONROE MR HOLDINGS LLC, MONROE MR HOLDINGS TRUST, MRG ATX BEVERAGE HOLDINGS LLC, MRG ATX HOLDINGS II LLC, MRG ATX HOLDINGS LLC, MRG ATX INVESTMENT LLC, MRG ATX MANAGEMENT I LLC, MRG ATX MANAGEMENT II LLC, MRG ATX OPERATIONS LLC, MRG CRW HOLDINGS LLC, MRG CRW MANAGEMENT I LLC, MRG CRW MANAGEMENT II LLC, MRG CRW OPERATIONS LLC, MUNICH OPCO GMBH, Miraval Resort, OASIS LUXURY RENTALS INCORPORATED, PARIS HOTEL COMPANY B.V., PARK HYATT HAMBURG GMBH, PARK HYATT HOTEL GMBH, PARK HYATT WATER TOWER ASSOCIATES L.L.C., PH NEW YORK L.L.C., PHMC RESIDENCIAS S. DE R.L. DE C.V., POLK SMITH REGENCY LLC, PT HYATT INDONESIA, PVD INVESTMENT COMPANY S.A.R.L., Peabody Hotels & Resort, RCG PROPERTIES LLC, REGENCY BEVERAGE COMPANY LLC, REGENCY RIVERWALK BEVERAGE LLC, RESERVATIONS CENTER L.L.C., RIO JV PARTNERS PARTICIPACOES LTDA., RIO PRETO PARTNERS HOTEIS LTDA., RIO PRETO PARTNERS S.A.R.L., ROSEMONT PROJECT MANAGEMENT L.L.C., ROUTE 46 MANAGEMENT ASSOCIATES CORP., RUNWAY HOLDING L.L.C., RUNWAY L.L.C., SAO PAULO INVESTMENT COMPANY INC., SAO PAULO INVESTORS LIMITED, SASIH, SDI EQUITIES INVESTOR L.L.C., SDI INC., SDI SECURITIES 11 LLC, SDI SECURITIES 6 LLC, SELECT HOTELS GROUP L.L.C., SELECT JV HOLDINGS L.L.C., SEOUL MIRAMAR CORPORATION, SERVICIOS DE HOTELERIA SAN JOSE S. DE R.L. DE C.V., SERVICIOS HOTELEROS LA PAZ S. DE R.L. DE C.V., SETTLEMENT INVESTORS INC., SHG PUERTO RICO INC., SIERRA HEALTHSTYLES LLC, SJC DESARROLLOS S. DE R.L. DE C.V., SKS CORP. N.V., SMC HOTELS B.V., SOROCABA PARTNERS HOTEIS LTDA, SOROCABA PARTNERS S.A.R.L., STANHOPE L.L.C., STARHILL LORING PARK L.L.C., SUGAR LAND/HP LLC, THE GREAT EASTERN HOTEL COMPANY LIMITED, THE GREAT EASTERN HOTEL HOLDING COMPANY LIMITED, TIJUANA PARTNERS S. DE R.L. DE C.V., TR MANAGEMENT INVESTMENT LLC, TUCSON VILLAS HOLDINGS LLC, TUCSON VILLAS LLC, TWO SEAS HOLDINGS LIMITED, Two Roads Hospitality, WAILEA HOTEL & BEACH RESORT L.L.C., WAILEA HOTEL HOLDINGS L.L.C., WAILEA MANAGEMENT ASSOCIATION L.L.C., WAILEA RESORT VILLAS HOLDINGS L.L.C., WAILEA RESORT VILLAS L.L.C., WEST END RESIDENCES L.L.C., XENIA ASSURANCE COMPANY INC., XENIA ASSURANCE COMPANY OF ILLINOIS, ZURICH ESCHERWIESE HOTEL GMBH, and ZURICH HOTEL INVESTMENTS B.V.. The following companies are subsidiares of Travelers Companies: 10762962 Canada Inc., 350 Market Street LLC, 8527512 Canada Inc., Aetna Life and Casualty Co, American Equity Insurance Company, American Equity Specialty Insurance Company, Aprilgrange Limited, Arch Street North LLC, Auto Hartford Investments LLC, Bayhill Restaurant II Associates, Camperdown Corporation, Constitution State Services LLC, Discover Property & Casualty Insurance Company, Discover Specialty Insurance Company, F&G UK Underwriters Limited, Farmington Casualty Company, Fidelity and Guaranty Insurance Company, Fidelity and Guaranty Insurance Underwriters Inc., First Floridian Auto and Home Insurance Company, Gulf Underwriters Insurance Company, IHP Capital Partners Fund VIII L.P., Northbrook Holdings Inc., Northfield Insurance Company, Northland Casualty Company, Northland Insurance Company, Phoenix UK Investments LLC, SPC Insurance Agency Inc., Select Insurance Company, Simply Business Holdings Inc., Simply Business Inc., St. Paul Fire and Marine Insurance Company, St. Paul Guardian Insurance Company, St. Paul Mercury Insurance Company, St. Paul Protective Insurance Company, St. Paul Surplus Lines Insurance Company, Standard Fire Properties LLC, Standard Fire UK Investments LLC, TCI Global Services Inc., TPC Investments Inc., TPC U.K. Investments LLC, The Automobile Insurance Company of Hartford Connecticut, The Charter Oak Fire Insurance Company, The Dominion of Canada General Insurance Company, The Family Business Institute LLC, The Phoenix Insurance Company, The St. Paul Companies Inc., The Standard Fire Insurance Company, The Travelers Casualty Company, The Travelers Home and Marine Insurance Company, The Travelers Indemnity Company, The Travelers Indemnity Company of America, The Travelers Indemnity Company of Connecticut, The Travelers Lloyds Insurance Company, TravCo Insurance Company, Travelers (Bermuda) Limited, Travelers Brazil Acquisition LLC, Travelers Brazil Holding LLC, Travelers Casualty Company of Connecticut, Travelers Casualty Insurance Company of America, Travelers Casualty UK Investments LLC, Travelers Casualty and Surety Company, Travelers Casualty and Surety Company of America, Travelers Casualty and Surety Company of Europe Limited, Travelers Commercial Casualty Company, Travelers Commercial Insurance Company, Travelers Constitution State Insurance Company, Travelers Distribution Alliance Inc., Travelers Excess and Surplus Lines Company, Travelers Global Inc., Travelers Indemnity U.K. Investments LLC, Travelers Insurance Company Limited, Travelers Insurance Company of Canada, Travelers Insurance Designated Activity Company, Travelers Insurance Group Holdings Inc., Travelers Lloyds of Texas Insurance Company, Travelers London Limited, Travelers MGA Inc., Travelers Management Limited, Travelers Marine LLC, Travelers Participacoes em Seguros Brasil S.A., Travelers Personal Insurance Company, Travelers Personal Security Insurance Company, Travelers Property Casualty Company of America, Travelers Property Casualty Corp., Travelers Property Casualty Insurance Company, Travelers Seguros Brasil S.A., Travelers Syndicate Management Limited, Travelers Texas MGA Inc., Travelers Underwriting Agency Limited, Ultramar Travel Management, United States Fidelity and Guaranty Company, Xbridge Limited, Zensurance Brokers Inc., and Zensurance Inc.. Thomson Reuters Corporation provides business information services in the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and the Asia Pacific. It operates in five segments: Legal Professionals, Corporates, Tax & Accounting Professionals, Reuters News, and Global Print. The Legal Professionals segment offers research and workflow products focusing on legal research and integrated legal workflow solutions that combine content, tools, and analytics to law firms and governments. The Corporates segment provides a suite of content-enabled technology solutions for legal, tax, regulatory, compliance, and IT professionals. The Tax & Accounting Professionals segment offers research and workflow products focusing on tax offerings and automating tax workflows to tax, accounting, and audit professionals in accounting firms. The Reuters News segment provides business, financial, national, and international news to professionals through desktop terminals, media organizations, and industry events, as well as directly to consumers. The Global Print segment offers legal and tax information primarily in print format to legal and tax professionals, governments, law schools, and corporations. The company was formerly known as The Thomson Corporation and changed its name to Thomson Reuters Corporation in April 2008. The company was founded in 1851 and is headquartered in Toronto, Canada. Thomson Reuters Corporation is a subsidiary of The Woodbridge Company Limited. Read More The two police officers who were involved in a fatal shooting last summer in Anaheim, California, will not face any criminal charges, the police chief said Wednesday. Sean Staymates and Kevin Pedersen fired more than 70 times at 50-year-old Eliuth Penaloza Nava, who they'd been told was armed and acting erratically, according to authorities. "It is our legal opinion that there is a lack of sufficient evidence to show beyond a reasonable doubt criminal culpability on the part of Officers Staymates and Pedersen when they fatally shot Nava on July 21, 2018," the Orange County District Attorney's Office said in a letter to Anaheim Police Chief Jorge Cisneros, providing details of the investigation. "Both Officer Pedersen and Officer Staymates were justified in believing that Nava posed a significant threat of death or serious physical injury to both officers and to others," the letter said. Even though they weren't charged, the DA's letter called their conduct "alarming and irresponsible." Neither Pedersen nor Staymates could be reached on Wednesday. What happened? On the morning of his death, one of Nava's brothers called the police to say Nava was under influence of an unknown drug and "hallucinating," according to the letter, which contains a detailed report of the incident. The brother also told police Nava was armed with a gun and a knife in a truck parked in front of his parents' house, prosecutors said. Dash cam and body cam footage released by the Orange County District Attorney's office showed Pedersen and Staymates responding to a call in a residential neighborhood in Anaheim. When the officers arrived on scene, Staymates saw Nava sit up and start the truck. The officers exited their vehicle, drew their weapons, and told Nava to stop the truck multiple times, according to the report. Nava did not comply with the officers and drove off. The report says that Pedersen saw Nava reach down toward the floorboard immediately into the pursuit. He saw Nava holding what appeared to be a black semi-automatic handgun pointed at the roof of the truck. Nava then pointed the gun out the window and directly aimed it at the officers, the report said. The gun was actually a CO2-powered air pistol, according to the report. "It was black in color and extremely similar in appearance to an authentic 9mm Luger pistol. There was no orange tip on the gun, and no other markings to readily distinguish this air pistol from a real firearm," said the report. Officers say they feared man was going to 'shoot and kill them' The report also said that a few seconds later, Pedersen fired approximately seven rounds through the front windshield of the patrol unit at Nava's truck. "Officers Pedersen and Staymates both feared Nava was going to shoot and kill them," according to the report. In the video, both officers are seen shooting through the windshield of their vehicle. "We highly discourage shooting through a windshield but our policy does not state that you cannot, there could be incidents or actions at times where that would be permissible," Cisneros said during Wednesday's news conference. Pedersen, who was driving, fired his handgun 64 times, according to the report. Staymates, who was on the passenger side, fired 12 shots from a rifle, the report said. Nava sustained at least nine gunshot wounds, according to autopsy results. Amphetamines and methamphetamines were found in his blood. Pedersen, who was a probationary officer, has been dismissed by the Anaheim Police Department. Staymates will face department discipline, Cisneros said. UTICA, N.Y. -- "No Hospital Downtown" is taking the next step to block a new 64 acre hospital campus from being built in Columbia-Lafayette neighborhood in downtown Utica. The next step is moving the battle to an Albany court room. The group, and its supporters are filing a lawsuit Thursday in Albany against Mohawk Valley Health System, the planning board of the city of Utica, state Office of Parks and Recreation and Historic Preservation, and the Dorm Authority of New York. Jim Brock, from No Hospital Downtown feels there are two reasons to file in Albany that two of the agencies are based there and a fair shake. The powerful people behind pushing the devastation of the Columbia-Lafayette neighborhood, are certainly powerful enough to have a lot of friends sitting currently in the supreme court locally. They are campaigns that have to be financed. Many are financed by the same people that want to bulldoze our historic downtown, said No Hospital Downtowns Jim Brock. Robert Scholefield, the executive vice president/COO forMVHS said in a statement: At this point, our legal team has not received any filings. We will continue to move forward as scheduled with the new regional medical center in Downtown Utica. Utica Mayor Robert Palmieri also released a statement on the lawsuit saying: "The city of Utica has not been served with legal papers so we cannot comment on any specific suit. However, weve worked hard to make sure the process was lawful, and were confident it was. Well continue to build and grow our downtown." BRIDGEWATER, N.Y. -- A state trooper saved a cat from a burning home in Bridgewater. The trooper was in the area and spotted smoke coming from a mobile home on Route 20. No one was home at the time, but he did get inside to rescue a cat. The fire was called in about 2 p.m., and the home is a total loss. Route 20 was closed, but is back open to alternating lanes of traffic. KENTLAND, Ind. (WLFI)- Teaching is something one Kentland man had always dreamed of doing, but now his dreams will have to wait. South Newton Elementary School Teacher Ryan Cinowski is leaving the classroom after he just got in it. "He's a great role model for kids. He's just an all around great person," South Newton Elementary Assistant Principal Mark Mayhew said. Ryan Cinowski has been serving in the military for 16 years. "I like to serve it's always been a part of me," Cinowski said. He's served at South Newton Elementary School for less than one year. "I always wanted to be a teacher." "He is an exceptional teacher. His students relate very well with him," Mayhew said. Cinowski said he applies his military skills in the classroom. "It's kind of like the command and control," Cinowski said. "Letting students learn to the best of their abilities and adapting to the way that they learn then trying to find a way to gather all their knowledge up and put it together." But now he's leaving his fourth-grade soldiers behind. "Duty calls and I am going overseas," Cinowski said. "To my knowledge this is the first time we've [South Newton Elementary School] ever had a reservist or a military person be deployed," Mayhew said. Cinowski has been commissioned to Kuwait as part of Operation Spartan Shield, or OSS, an operation based in the Middle East by the United States Department of Defense. He was previously deployed to Afghanistan in 2012. Before that he was sent to Haiti on a humanitarian mission after the 2010 earthquake. "My parents were in the air force, they actually met in the air force," CInowski said. "My uncle was a marine, my grandfather was a marine, so I kind of have a family history of military service and I just followed in their footsteps." Now he's making his own steps, nearly 7,000 miles away from home, to serve the country he loves. "For me, it's a loyalty and a duty to serve my country," Cinowski said. "A little selfless service." As for Cinowski's plans after his deployment... "I plan to make South Newton Elementary my home," Cinowski said. "I was glad to hear him say this wants to be his home because we're counting on him coming back after his deployment," Mayhew said. Cinowski's last day at South Newton was May 2nd. One thing the school is doing to make sure students feel Cinowski is still with them during his deployment is offering small toy army men. Students and staff have been placing the tiny green soldiers all over the building as a reminder to pray for him and all the other men and women who are serving our country. LAFAYETTE, Ind. (WLFI) Lafayette's Highland Park Neighborhood which is known for its historic look, is working to make sure new construction won't ever interrupt its charm. The neighborhood is working closely with Tippecanoe County Area Plan Commission to enforce a form-based overlay. That's essentially a change in zoning. It would mean no new development can happen there unless it meets specific standards set by the neighborhood, the city of Lafayette and APC. APC's assistant director Ryan O'Gara said it wouldn't impact homeowners already living there. "If someone was adding on to their house or making some minor adjustments to an existing building this code wouldn't apply, they would just follow what the existing zone is," said O'Gara. It's tough for Lyndsy Manz to choose just one thing to love about the neighborhood. "Sidewalks for our kids to ride their bikes and an intimate feel that's more than the straight streets of a suburban neighborhood," said Manz. However, she does admit the history and charm are at the top of her list. "There's a lot of great stories from folks who lived here back in the 30s and 40s that have been passed onto us when we moved here." Manz along with several other neighbors don't want to lose that. She believes it's important for everyone to understand this resolution is a way of protecting the neighborhood. "When people think about zoning that word is a turn off or trigger for a lot of people to think oh you're going to tell me what color I can and can't paint my house," said Manz. "It can be as strict or as loose as you like," said O'Gara. He believes this process can only be successful if the neighborhood participates. "I think the neighborhood and the people interested in this will have to gauge how strict it should be because you want to allow some creativity for an architect but at the same time, you're still trying to achieve this historic feel," said O'Gara. He added the reason the neighborhood is taking this route instead of getting on a local historic district is because it gives them more flexibility. If the neighborhood were listed on that district, people would have to go before the city and the historical commission every time they made a change to their home. The APC will continue working with the neighborhood on the resolution which will go before City Council and APC again before it's officially enforced. A couple bands/line of rain & thunder passed overnight to this morning. There was a lot of gustiness to them with many peak gusts of 30-40 mph. A few exceeded 40 mph. Gusts 40 mph or greater overnight-early this morning: 45 mph...Fowler 43 mph...Grissom Air Reserve Base 41 mph...3 W Rochester 40 mph...Round Grove 40 mph...Attica Temperatures are 67-73 over the viewing area as of 1:30 p.m. There continues to be a few showers around with mostly cloudy skies & strong southwest winds. MARGINAL RISK of severe weather this afternoon-evening as scattered showers & a few storms & perhaps a couple broken lines develop ahead of & along cold front. An isolated severe storm is possible along & southeast of a Pine Village to Monticello to Rochester line. Cold front is currently line up from Gary, Indiana to east of St. Louis, Missouri & is approaching Newton County. In fact, we should rapidly cool off into the 50s at Greater Lafayette by 6 p.m. with brisk west to northwest wind once the cold front passes. A little dim sun is getting through the veil of thicke cirrus & altostratus, while cumulus towers are developing along & ahead of that front. This cooler air will reach Newton County very soon & then spread east & southeastward. There is more shear & dynamic support today, compared to lastnight & this morning, but there is a lot of cloudiness around. So, this will mitigate more robust severe risk, keeping it MARGINAL. Bit better severe risk exists just southeast of the viewing area where there is a bit more time between now & cold frontal passage for clouds to thin, things destablize & storms to organize more. Friday looks dry with skies becoming partly cloudy with 56-61 after 39-46 in the morning, followed by increasing clouds & 60-64 Saturday after 37-43 in the morning. Showers are possible Saturday night to Sunday, then a bit of a break. Then, with cold air aloft & some sun, some spotty may bubble up Sunday afternoon with highs 60-64. 37-43 is likely Sunday night with clearing, followed by sun & some clouds & 62-66 Monday. DELPHI, Ind. (WLFI) - A beautiful trail with a tragic past in Delphi will be getting a fresh start. The city is getting $1,274,939 in grant funding from the state to help update the Monon High Bridge Trail. This is the same trail that Abigail Williams and Liberty German were killed on in 2017. Right now, the Monon High Bridge Trail is a little less than a mile and a half of gravel trail. It starts at City Park and ends at the Monon Bridge over Deer Creek just east of town. The grant money will be used to fix up a little less than a mile of the trail. This grant money is part of Governor Eric Holcomb's Next Level Trails initiative. The first round of grant winners was announced last week. Over the course of multiple rounds, the state will be giving out $90 million to help with trail refurbishment across the state. The Monon High Bridge Trail was one of 17 trails awarded money in the first round. Delphi Mayor Shane Evans was the one in charge of getting the grant ready in a short two-month time span. "We kind of did an assessment of the trails in and around the city to try and figure out where we could expand, what we could improve," he said. "The Monon High Bridge Trail seemed like the right fit." Right now, you can't get to the Monon Bridge that crosses Deer Creek. A chain link fence blocks off the area where the two young girls lost their lives. However, now is a time to start rebuilding the trail, and the broken hearts of the city. "The trail has the most amenities," he said. "The Monon Bridge is one of the oldest and tallest railroad trestles in the state. It was constructed back in 1891. You can see where transportation intersected with the natural area and how that influenced the City of Delphi." Mayor Evans said they plan to use the money to widen the trail for bicycle use, pave it for ADA accessibility, and fix a spot of erosion. On top of security cameras already installed, Mayor Evans says having the public take back the trails is important. A match on the grant from NICHES Land Trust is going toward decking and railing for the Monon Bridge. Since the tragedy on the trail, the city has taken measures to make the trails safer, such as adding security cameras and more informational kiosks with maps. Mayor Evans said he hopes getting the trails fixed up will contribute to safety in another way. "The more people we get out there walking and utilizing the trails, the likely hood that another crime will occur decreases because you have good citizens out there watching and being vigilant," he said. "I was living in California at the time when it happened and it really broke my heart," said Anthony Trujillo, who moved to Delphi last summer. He and his pup Jack go on walks three times a day around Delphi. He thinks these improvements will be a good thing for trail safety. "People from out of town look for things to do, and it's something that is fun," he said. "I hope they make it safer to walk on like maybe a make it little wider or maybe add lights at night and stuff like that." The goal of the update, "to go out and experience the natural beauty, the transportation, and the history of the city of Delphi," said Mayor Evans. He said they will start working on the trail this construction season. They expect it to all be complete by November 2020. It is not known when the next round of Next Level Trail applicant winners will be announced. Nearly $25 million was awarded in the first round. Success! An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup. The Japanese Monarchy has reigned over Japan for over 2,600 years. It is the world's oldest continuous hereditary dynasty. The Monarch is linked to the Shinto gods and is therefore highly revered. The Monarchy has existed since 1660 BC although the functions have changed. The modern Imperial House of Japan holds a symbolic role with no political, military or executive functions. Emperor Jimmu is considered the first emperor of Japan who reigned in 1660 BC although he is believed to have been a legendary and symbolic figure. The National Foundation Day is celebrated across the country on February 11 to mark the day Jimmu ascended to power. The descendants of Jimmu expanded the Kingdom over the centuries. The functions of emperors varied, and at some point, they were viewed as the link between humans and gods although they were not worshipped. In 1868, emperor Meiji moved the Monarch's capital from Kyoto to Tokyo, centralized power, and transformed the role from a symbolic to a political figure with imperial power. After the Second World War, the United States wanted the Japanese Emperor Hirohito to step down and renounce connection to divinity. Hirohito had launched a massive resistance against the Allied, and the United States feared that he might lead a future resistance if left in power. Hirohito did not abdicate but instead enshrined the roles of the Japanese emperor as purely symbolic in the 1947 constitution. The current imperial family of Japan has 18 members and a succession law that prevents female kins from inheriting the throne is threatening its existence. Emperors are traditionally meant to rule until their death, but Emperor Akihito abdicated on April 30, 2019 because of health concerns. Prince Naruhito ascended to the throne as one of the only three possible heirs. Several female members rescinded the Monarch and married commoners. According to traditions, only male successions can inherit the Monarch, further deepening the succession crisis. The Japanese government is seeking possible solutions, and it is unclear whether or not it will rescind the tradition. The Longest Reigning Japanese Emperors Emperor Hirohito (Showa) Emperor Hirohito (Showa) was the longest serving Japanese emperor. He reigned over the Showa era that lasted from December 25, 1926, to January 7, 1989. He led Japan through a series of political changes from totalitarian, internationalism and fascism. In 1937, Hirohito led the Japanese invasion of China. He successfully steered the country through the Great Depression and mounted a strong resistance against the United States during the Second World War. After the defeat of Japan, Hirohito enshrined the roles of the emperor as purely symbolic in the constitution and oversaw the transformation of the country into a democratic state. Emperor Meiji Emperor Meiji, also known as Meiji the Great reigned over the Meiji era from February 3, 1867, to his death on July 30, 1912. It was during this period that Japan transformed from an isolated feudal state to a global industrialized superpower. Before his reign, Japan was a decentralized country with more than 250 domains, but he rose to power, centralized power, and created a stronger political, economic, and social unit. He was 122nd Emperor of Japan. Emperor Kokaku Emperor Kokaku was the 119th Japanese emperor. He reigned from December 16, 1780, until his abdication on May 7, 1817, in favor of his son. Even after abdication, he continued to rule as Daijo Tenno or Joko (Abdicated Emperor) until his death in 1840. No other emperor abdicated until Emperor Akihito in 2019. The Maldives is an island nation and it is part of the Asian continent. The Maldives is the smallest country in Asia with 90,000 square kilometers of land area spread out over 1,200 islands. The Maldives is classified as a developing economy, and in 2017, the GDP of the Maldives was ranked as the 152nd highest in the world at approximately $4.6 billion. On the other hand, the GDP per capita of the country was listed as the 58th highest in the world at $12,527. The Maldivian economy is reliant on the country's natural resources which include fish, arable land, and the country's beautiful scenery. Beautiful Scenery The Maldives is considered one of the most beautiful nations on earth which attract a large number of tourists to the country each year. Some of the most beautiful areas in the Maldives include the country's islands and the sandy beaches. One of the most popular Maldivian beaches is situated on the island of Fulhadhoo which is located approximately 63 miles northwest of the Male, the country's capital. The Maldives is also popular with snorkelers because of the clear deep waters that surround the island. The coral reefs of the Maldives are also a popular tourist attraction as the country has roughly 3% of all the coral reefs in the world. The tourism industry is the most critical in the Maldives as it contributes on average approximately 30% of the country's GDP. According to the Maldivian government, the country's tourism industry employed roughly 25,000 people. The Maldivian tourism industry is relatively young compared to other nations as the country's first tourist resort was established in 1972. The first Maldivian resort was the Kurumba Island Resort which was soon followed by the Bandos Island Resort. The two resorts had a combined capacity of roughly 280 beds. However, despite its relative youth, the tourism sector was primarily responsible for the growth of the Maldivian economy during the 1980s. The number of resorts in the Maldives grew rapidly from 1972 to 2017 as the government estimated that there were approximately 100 tourist resorts in the country. In 2017, the Maldivian government estimated that the country had attracted approximately 1,389,542 tourists of which 306,530 were from China. European nations such as Germany, the United Kingdom, and Italy also made up large portions of the visitors to the Maldives. The Maldivian tourism sector faces several challenges with one of the most significant ones being the low wages paid to Maldivians involved in the industry. The workers in the Maldivian tourism industry formed a union to agitate for better pay and working conditions. Arable Land As of 2014, the arable land in the country accounted for about 13% of the total territory of the Maldives. The agriculture industry is one of the smaller sectors of the Maldivian economy and on average it only contributes 6% of the country's GDP. Maldivian farmers grow a wide variety of crops such as millet, sweet potatoes, and corn. Several Maldivian islands have become famous for growing fruits such as Feevah Island which is famous for growing bananas and Thoddo which is famous for growing watermelons. Despite the vast array of crops grown in the Maldives, most of the food consumed in the country is imported from other nations. Several agricultural experts believe that the Maldives has the potential to attain self-sufficiency in food production and reduce the reliance on imports. The biggest challenge affecting the development of the agriculture industry in the Maldives is the limited land which can be used for agriculture. Another major challenge that limits the growth of the Maldivian agricultural sector is the high cost of farm inputs as most are imported. The government of the Maldives partnered with the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) to develop the country's agricultural sector and attain self-sufficiency in the production of several crops. Coconuts One of the most important crops grown in the Maldives is coconuts which are used for a variety of purposes. Two products of the coconut tree, coir and copra are some of the most important exports of the Maldives. Coconuts are also crucial as they provide coconut oil which is used by the residents for cooking. The coconut industry in the Maldives faces several challenges with the main one being the old age of the country's trees. Livestock The most common livestock kept in the Maldives are the goats because of the country's limited land. The goats are mainly kept for the production of meat and milk. Goat milk is one of the most important foods in the Maldives. One of the most common goat breeds in the Maldives is Jamnapari which was introduced to the country from Sri Lanka. Another popular goat breed in the Maldives is the Battu which was introduced from India. Chickens are also common in the Maldives, and they are mainly kept to satisfy the local demand for meat and eggs. Fish One of the essential natural resources in the Maldives is fish which are mostly obtained from the Indian Ocean. Some of the varieties of fish found within the territorial waters of the Maldives include the parrotfish, barracuda, and the bluestripe snapper. The fishing industry is among the most crucial sectors of the Maldivian economy as it employs a large segment of the Maldivian labor force. In 1995, the Maldivian government estimated that the country's fishing fleet was made up of more than 1,600 vessels. In 2006, the Maldivian government estimated that the country's fishermen caught roughly 184,000 tons of fish. Pelagic fishing is considered the most viable form of commercial fishing in the Maldives. Most Maldivian pelagic fishers exploit the skipjack tuna and the yellowfin tuna. Some of the most common methods used by Maldivian fishermen to catch tuna include using handlines and pole lines. Unemployment in the Maldives One of the most significant challenges facing the Maldivian economy is unemployment. In 2017, the Maldivian government estimated that the country's unemployment rate stood at 5% which was a small drop from the 2016 unemployment rate of 5.03%. The Maldivian government has put in place several strategies to increase the number of jobs in the country and grow the country's economy. The Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, commonly referred to simply as Ningxia, is an autonomous region in northwest China. Ningxia was previously a province, but it was incorporated into Gansu in 1954, before being reconstituted into an autonomous region four years later. Over 20% of the Hui population resides in Ningxia. The autonomous region is surrounded by Inner Mongolia, Gansu, and Shaanxi. Ningxia occupies an area of 25,637 sq mi and has an estimated population of 6,620,000. Capital Of Ningxia The capital city of the Ningxia Autonomous Region is Yinchuan. It was the former capital of the Western Xia Empire. Yinchuan occupies an area of about 3,426.51 sq mi. The citys name means "silver river." The city has favorable conditions for farming and beautiful natural scenery. Yinchuan is the permanent location of China-Arab Expo, an international platform for economic and cultural exchanges between the Arab nations and China. History of Yinchuan The city was originally a county known as Fuping during the first century BCE. Yinchuans name was changed to Huaiyuan during the sixth century CE. Yinchuan has been under various dynasties including Tang, Ming, and Qing dynasties among others. Yinchuan was the capital of Ningxia when it was formed in 1928. The city became part of Gansu province after the Ningxia province was abolished in 1954. Yinchuan became a capital again in 1958 after the Ningxia Hui autonomous region was established. Traditionally, the city was a commercial and administrative center. Yinchuan had various commercial enterprises by the 1950s. Geography of Yinchuan Yinchuan is situated at the center of the Ningxia plain, and its sheltered from the Mongolia deserts by the Helan Mountains. The Yellow River stretches across the city from the southwest to the northwest. The average elevation of Yinchuan is about 3,608 ft. Yichuans urban center is located about halfway between the edge of Mount Helan and the Yellow River. Climate of Yinchuan The region experiences a cold desert climate with an annual rain of about 7.32 inches. The city has distinct seasons with short summers, late springs, and Cold, dry winters. The annual mean temperature of the region is about 9 C. The citys diurnal temperature variation is quite significant due to aridity which contributes to the sunny climate. Yinchuan receives about 2,906 hours of bright sunlight all year long and 150 frost-free days. Demographics of Yinchuan The city is home to a huge percentage of the Muslim Hui people who contribute about a third of the population. The city has a population of about 1.99 million inhabitants. The Islamic influence is evident in everything in Yinchuan including the cuisine, road signs, and architecture. There are over 500 mosques in Yinchuan. Economy of Yinchuan Yinchuan had a gross domestic product (GDP) per capita of $4,526 in 2008, ranking 197th in China. As a site for the China-Arab States Cooperation, the city has excellent opportunities to grow as a business center for Arab states and China. Yinchuan is a smart city which uses a facial-recognition system for public transport payment, digital citizen-service centers, and connected trash bins. The main tourist attractions in the city include China Western film studios, Western Xia tombs, and the Sand-lake. Kentucky is a state in the US found in the east south-central part of the country, and it is one out of the four States which was constituted as a commonwealth the others being the state of Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, and Virginia. Initially, the state of Kentucky was part of Virginia and in 1792 Kentucky was admitted to the Union as the 15th state in the country. Presently, the state of Kentucky is the 37th largest state by land area. The state has been nicknamed the Bluegrass State which was derived from a huge expanse of pastures as a result of the fertile soils within the state. The Bluegrass Region in Kentucky is one of the major regions which is home to two cities of Lexington and Louisville. Admission Into the Union There are several reasons why the residents of Kentucky decided to separate from Virginia. One of the main reasons was that travel to the capital of the state was often a dangerous journey, and therefore the residence wanted the administrative center to be near where they were living. Secondly, Virginia had not recognized the significance of the trade on the Mississippi River on the economy of Kentucky, and lastly, the use of local militia especially against the Indian needed orders from Virginias governor. Similarly, Virginia prohibited any trade with New Orleans, which at the time was a Spanish colony and had control over the Mississippi Rivers mouth, which was crucial to the communities living in Kentucky. All these problems became even more profound as the population in Kentucky increased, and this led to Colonel Benjamin Logan holding a constitutional convention in 1784 at Danville. There were several other conventions in the subsequent years, and General James Wilkinson in one of the conventions agitated for cessation from the US and from Virginia to become a ward of Spain; however, this idea was defeated. Virginia granted consent to Kentucky to become a state in 1788 through two Enabling Acts. In April 1792 the conventional of the delegates drafted the first Constitution of Kentucky and handed it over to the Congress of the US and on June 1st, 1792, Kentucky was admitted to the Union as the 15th state. Kentucky in the American Civil War 18611865 The population in the state of Kentucky in 1860 stood at 1.1 million, and out of this, about 25% were slaves mainly concentrated in the Bluegrass Region, Lexington, and Louisville. During the American Civil War the state of Kentucky was neutral until the new legislature in 1861 took the office which had strong sympathy with the Union and most of the citizens in the Commonwealth as well were strong sympathizers of the Union. The General of the Confederacy, Leonidas Polk invaded Columbus in Kentucky and therefore breaking Kentuckys neutrality stand on September 4th, 1861, and in retaliation out of anger the state legislature of Kentucky ordered the flag of the Union to be raised in the state capitol in Frankfort. Consequently, Kentucky declared allegiance to the Union and remained under the Union until the end of the war. The Economy of Kentucky Kentucky has been a farming state for a long time, and it is home to the first commercial winery to be established in the United States in 1799. Currently, the state of Kentucky is the 5th largest in goat farming, the 8th largest in production of beef, and the 14th largest in production of corn. For a long time, the state has been the main center for the tobacco industry and currently, the state has diversified its economy to include non-agricultural activities such as manufacturing, oil production, and medical facilities among others. The state of Louisiana is located in the south-central part of the United States. It is the 25th largest state by population and the 31st largest by area covering 52,378.13 square miles. The state shares borders with Mississippi, Arkansas, Texas, and the Gulf of Mexico. It is the only state in the country with political units known as parishes, which are the same as counties in other states. The state capital of Louisiana is the city of Baton Rouge while the largest city in the state is New Orleans. Louisiana became the 18th US state in the spring of 1812. Early Settlement Before European exploration, the area was inhabited by various indigenous peoples as evidenced by prehistoric archaeological sites in the state. The native people practiced hunting and gathering in the uplands and coastal prairies and farming in low lying areas. European Exploration Hernando de Soto was among the earliest Europeans to arrive on the territory occupied by Louisiana in 1541. Hernando's expedition, however, encountered hostile tribes and did not lay claim to the region. Interest in the area remained dormant until the 17th century when the French on commercial, religious, and imperial missions established a significant foothold on the Gulf Coast and the Mississippi River. Louisiana was claimed in the name of King Louis XIV by Robert Cavelier, Sieur de La Salle. Royal charters for the territory were first granted to Antoine Crozat, a French merchant in 1712, and later to Scottish businessman John Law in 1717, whose company then failed in 1720. French Colony Louisiana became a French colony in 1731. The French initially claimed all the territory on either side of the Mississippi River all the way to the French Canadian territory. The population of European settlers gradually increased to include thousands of Germans who settled close to New Orleans in an area that was known as German Coast. Spanish Colony Louisiana was later ceded to Spain through a secret deal that led to nearly four decades under Spanish Colonial rule after which the territory was handed back to the French in 1800. The Louisiana Purchase The French Emperor Napoleon I sold Louisiana to the United States in 1803 which at the time was under the leadership of President Jefferson in what is referred to as the Louisiana Purchase. The acquisition of Louisiana by the United States effectively doubled the size of the country and encouraged westward expansion. Louisiana was later divided into the Territory of Louisiana which encompassed the vast region drained by the Missouri and Mississippi rivers and the Territory of Orleans. Obtaining Statehood By 1810, the Territory of Orleans consisted of an estimated 77,000 people which prompted proposals for statehood. On April 30th, 1812, the territory was granted statehood and renamed to Louisiana becoming the eighteen US state. The separate Louisiana Territory was renamed Missouri Territory and remained an unorganized territory for some time after. Development of the State The state of Louisiana remains strategically important to the nation to this day. Its status is further enhanced by its fertile soils and petroleum and natural gas deposits. The development of the state was occasioned by violent internal struggles and territorial disputes that slowed economic growth and crippled political institutions. During the American Civil War, Louisiana was part of the Confederate states that wanted to uphold slavery. Racial conflict marked the state's development in the period between 1861 and 1865 and reconstruction between 1865 and 1877. The increasing political involvement of African Americans, however, helped the state to move toward a more racially egalitarian society. The Republic of Upper Volta was a country that existed in West Africa from December 11, 1958, to August 4, 1984, when it was renamed to Burkina Faso by Thomas Sankara after seizing power through a coup d'etat on August 4, 1983. The name Burkina Faso means "the home of upright men." Colonization of West Africa In the early 1890s, German, French, and British colonists made several attempts to claim present-day Burkina Faso in what was known as the Scramble for Africa. They formed alliances and signed treaties with some local communities while fighting others. The colonialists also made treaties of their own that included giving up some territories for others, and in 1896, Burkina Faso became a French Protectorate. In 1904 the French integrated its territories in the Volta Basin, upper Senegal and Niger, and other territories in West Africa into a single colony with the capital in Bamako. The Creation of Upper Volta However, the colony proved too big to administer prompting the French to separate upper Senegal and the Niger, from the territory that is present-day Burkina Faso resulting in the creation of the colony of French Upper Volta on March 1, 1919. The Colony was a major source of cotton much of which was exported to France, but by 1932 the colonists were facing armed resistance from the local communities and administering the colony was becoming too expensive. France dismantled the territory and shared it among French Sudan, the Ivory Coast, and Niger. After the Second World War France experienced a shortage of raw materials and turned to its colonies in Africa. It revived the colony of Upper Volta in 1947 and consolidated other territories as part of the French Union. Upper Volta achieved self-governance on December 11, 1958, and renamed to the Republic of Upper Volta. It became fully independent on August 5, 1960. The Republic of Upper Volta The Republic of Upper Volta was established on December 11, 1958, when the French territory of Upper Volta gained self-rule from French colonists. After independence, Maurice Yameogo became the first president and soon after banned all political parties in the country except for the ruling Voltaic Democratic Union. In 1966 mass protests and demonstrations, strikes by labor unions, civil servants and students led to the ouster of the president who was succeeded by Sangoule Lamizana. Lamizana ruled for 14 years before being ousted by a coup and replaced by Saye Zerbo. He ruled for one year and 347 days before being ousted by Jean-Baptiste Ouedraogo in a coup. Ouedraogo was subsequently deposed in a coup by Thomas Sankara after only 268 days in office. Burkina Faso Thomas Sankara took office on August 4, 1983, and formed the National Council of the Revolution for which he became the chairman and the president. He changed the country's name from the Republic of Upper Volta to Burkina Faso on August 4, 1984. Sankara served for four years and 72 days before being assassinated. Five students from Wrangell High School recently took a trip to Washington D.C. and New York City as a part of the Close Up Program, a national student government nonprofit. During their trip, they visited many important locations around the two cities, including the Holocaust Museum. At the museum they had the opportunity to meet Louis de Groot (center), a Holocaust survivor. Pictured from left to right are Adriana Larrabee, Jing O'Brien, Laura Helgeson, Madison Blackburn, and Skylar Larrabee. Five Wrangell High School students recently returned from a trip to Washington D.C. and New York City, as a part of the Close Up program. Close Up is a nonprofit student government nonprofit organization, according to Sarah Whittlesey-Merritt with the Wrangell Legislative Information Office. The program brings high school students from schools across the country to visit the two cities, learn about government, and foster an interest in politics. Merritt has been involved in the Close Up program for about 12 years, she said. She, along with students Jing O'Brien, Skyler and Adrianna Larrabe... GUANGZHOU, May 8 (Xinhua) -- The Chinese port of Guangzhou and Brazilian port of Acu signed an agreement Wednesday to establish a sister-port relationship. The agreement was signed at the 2019 World Ports Conference, which opened Wednesday in Guangzhou, capital of southern China's Guangdong Province. After the establishment of the sister-port relationship, Acu will have a closer cooperation on information exchange and collaborative development with Guangzhou, which is an important starting point for the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road, said Tessa Major, chief commercial officer of the Port of Acu. For young ports like Acu, Chinese ports have become a benchmark in areas such as port infrastructure, logistics and management experience, Major said. A regional hub and a key container port in southern China, Guangzhou handled more than 610 million tonnes of cargo and about 22 million standard containers in 2018. Starting operation in 2014, the Port of Acu has nine terminals, including one that can handle 26.5 million tonnes of iron ore every year, according to the official website of the port. Supporters of the International Committee of the Fourth International (ICFI) in India will hold a picket to demand the immediate release of Julian Assange, who has been jailed for courageously exposing the war crimes and diplomatic intrigues of US imperialism. The picket in Ambattur, north Chennai on Saturday, May 11 is part of the ICFIs ongoing international campaign to defend Assange. British police arrested Assange on bogus bail charges after the Ecuadorian government, under pressure from Washington, illegally ended his asylum in its embassy in London. The British courts have now sentenced him to 50 weeks of rigorous imprisonment in the notorious Belmarsh jail, where is being held in solitary confinement. He faces extradition to the US and charges of espionage that carry life imprisonment or the death sentence. The international witch-hunt against Assange is a part of the escalating attacks on basic democratic rights, including freedom of expression, around the world. Country after country is seeking to muzzle the free flow of information and discussion through the Internet and social media. At the behest of the US and European powers, Google and Facebook censored the World Socialist Web Site and other left-wing and anti-war web sites. Indias Bharatiya Janatha Party (BJP)-led government has also stepped up its Internet censorship under the pretext of opposing hate speech and defending national security. It is working closely with Facebook, Twitter and YouTube to gag selected websites and social media accounts. The defence of Assange is completely bound up with the fight for the democratic rights of the working class. We urge workers, students, young people and the oppressed masses to support our campaign and participate in our picket. Venue: Opposite TI Cycles, Ambattur, Chennai Date and Time: Saturday, May 11, 3.30 5.30 p.m. The US House Judiciary Committee voted Wednesday afternoon to hold Attorney General William Barr in contempt for refusing to provide Congress with an unredacted copy of the Mueller report and other documents supporting the reports findings. The action came on a straight party-line vote, with 24 Democrats approving the contempt citation and 16 Republicans opposing it. The committee spent hours in debate, with Democrats condemning President Trumps decision to invoke executive privilege to withhold the documents and Republicans denouncing the Democratic investigation as a step towards impeachment. Trumps assertion of executive privilege was unprecedented in its sweep. All previous presidential claims of executive privilegeeven including Richard Nixons efforts to suppress White House tape recordings during the Watergate crisishave involved maintaining privacy in communications between the president and his closest advisers, or keeping certain national security information secret. Much of the Mueller report, however, concerns the 2016 election campaign, before Trump became president, and is thus entirely outside the conceivable scope of executive privilege. As for communications between President Trump and top aides in the White House, the subject of the second half of the report, which concerns Trumps efforts to block the investigation, privilege was waived when aides such as former White House Counsel Don McGahn testified under oath to the Mueller inquiry. During the debate on the contempt charge, many Judiciary Committee Democrats characterized Trumps actions as unconstitutional and dictatorial. Representative Sheila Jackson Lee of Texas declared, I can only conclude that the president now seeks to take a wrecking ball to the Constitution of the United States of America. Representative Pramila Jayapal of Washington state said, We are at a brink of importance between democracy and dictatorship if we ignore checks and balances. And I fully support holding this attorney general in contempt for refusing to comply with constitutional foundations. At a press conference after the vote, Judiciary Committee Chairman Jerrold Nadler declared, This was a very grave and momentous step we were forced to take today to move a contempt citation against the attorney general of the United States. We did not relish doing this but we have no choice. The executive branch, at Trumps direction, was refusing to subordinate itself to legislative oversight, he said, noting that since the Democrats assumed control of the House of Representatives in January, not a single page has been produced in response to congressional requests or subpoenas. Weve talked for a long time about approaching a constitutional crisis. We are now in it, Nadler said. Now is the time of testing whether we can keep this type of republic, or whether this republic is destined to change into a different, more tyrannical form of government. The apocalyptic language raises an obvious question: if Trump is trampling on the Constitution and is hell bent on establishing an authoritarian form of rule in the United Statesand he certainly isthen why do the Democrats categorically reject bringing charges of impeachment against him? And why do they continue to seek collaboration with this more tyrannical form of government on a wide range of policies, from the federal budget, to immigration, to the projection of American military force in the Persian Gulf, the South China Sea and throughout the world? The conflict between Congress and the White House is not merely partisan warfare in advance of the 2020 elections, but represents the breakdown of the institutional framework through which American capitalist politics has operated for more than two centuries. The structure of checks and balances has been undermined over a protracted period, with the president taking on virtually unchecked powers, both as commander-in-chief in foreign and military policy and increasingly in domestic policy as well. In February, Trump declared a national emergency on the US-Mexico border, ordering the Pentagon to shift funds to provide the resources to build his border wall, in direct defiance of congressional refusal to authorize such spending. This was a flagrant violation of the most important constitutional power of Congress, the power of the purse, but the Democrats did nothing but file a lawsuit and warn that the next Democratic president might assert similar emergency powers to accomplish their own policy goals. The Democrats may now protest that the president is assuming unconstitutional authority, but they do not come to the table with clean hands. Under the Obama administration, they endorsed the right of the president to launch a war of aggression against Libya without congressional sanction, and they applauded when Obama ordered drone missile strikes that killed thousands across the Middle East and North Africa, including American citizens. Equally important, their opposition to Trump has from the beginning taken the form of support for a palace coup by the national-security apparatus, based on the allegations of Russian meddling in the 2016 elections. This reached the point of full-blown McCarthyite witch-hunting, with claims that Trump is a stooge of Russian President Vladimir Putin who does Moscows bidding in the White House. The Democratic congressional leaders do not actually believe such claims, but find them useful in seeking to divert popular opposition to the Trump administration in a right-wing, pro-imperialist direction. And by hammering Trump on the alleged Russian connection, they have sought to push the administration to a more aggressive foreign policy in Syria, in Ukraine, and more generally against Russia. This has now found its most noxious expression in the preparations by the Trump administration to provoke a war with Iranto which the Democrats would give near-unanimous backing. The author also recommends: Trump floats proposal to cancel 2020 elections [8 May 2019] An Advanced Placement (AP) Social Studies teacher in Birmingham, Michigan was barred from teaching an African American History course this spring, following an ugly and deceitful attack by the Birmingham African American Family Network (BAAFN) who charged Scott Craig, a white teacher, with having a disrespectful curriculum. Craig has taught for 32 years and holds Masters degrees in both African American and labor history. In collaboration with a national educational council including college professors and parents, Craig developed the syllabus for an Advanced Placement pilot program in Birmingham, a largely upper-middle-class suburb of Detroit. Scott Craig Leading the charge against Craig was the BAAFN and journalist Chastity Pratt Dawsey. The group demanded Craigs replacement stating that his syllabus failed to emphasize the success of black politicians and entrepreneurs. They alleged that providing data on poverty, police killings and high imprisonment rates among African Americans was racist. The group demanded to be allowed to rewrite the curriculum and help select Craigs replacement, who, they insisted, should be black. Dawsey, who began her career as an intern at the New York Times and worked for the Detroit Free Press for 12 years, is a well-known Democratic Party establishment mouthpiece. She began the public campaign against Craig with an opinion piece on February 19 in Bridge Magazine. In the article, she makes an outrageous analogy between Craigs AP course and the right-wing campaign of former Michigan Republican state senator Patrick Colbeck to downplay the civil rights component of Michigans social studies curriculum, among other crucial working-class struggles. Dawsey purportedly became involved after being texted by her son (formerly a student at Groves High School in Birmingham, whom she mentions is on his way to Harvard) that the film Boyz N the Hood was included in the AP course syllabus. The film, set in South Central Los Angeles in the 1990s, received two Academy Award nominations and enjoyed wide popularity among audiences, both black and white, for its searing look at poverty and the tragedies of gang life. That the film was listed on the curriculum, however, prompted the highly-agitated Dawsey to give the impression that Craigs curriculum revolved around the filma patent lie. In addition, Craigs syllabus lists The Autobiography of Malcolm X, Martin Luther Kings Letter from a Birmingham Jailand his speech at Riverside Church in New York in opposition to the Vietnam War, a four-part study spanning from Slavery to Civil War, through Reconstruction, Jim Crow, the civil rights movement and the position of African Americans today. Chastity Pratt Dawsey The course addresses the topics of police brutality, the role of affirmative action, the decline of urban centers and the links between poverty, educational achievement and racism, the 1967 Detroit riot, an evaluation of African American political leadership since 1970, De Jure v De Facto discrimination and racism and the re-segregation of schools, among other significant topics. Craig specifically emphasized that students should be ready to debate various points of view. Dawsey goes on to cite the inclusion of The New Jim Crow, a New York Times bestseller by Michelle Alexander, in the curriculum to claim that the coursework was heavily focused on the oppression of African Americans. She claimed this reference boosts the myth of white superiority. While the WSWS has written of its opposition to the racial preoccupation and reformist notions of The New Jim Crow, the book highlights the terrible and disproportionate incarceration of minorities in US prisons. Black men are arrested and imprisoned at a rate 6.5 times that of white men. Such facts are a searing indictment of American capitalismand of no real interest to the social layer inhabited by Dawsey and her group. To substantiate her outright sanitizing of history, Dawsey cites the work of Carter G. Woodson, the father of Negro History Week, with the selective quote, If you teach the Negro that he has accomplished as much good as any other race he will aspire to equality and justice without regard to race. Such paeans to accomplishments stripped from their social and political context or class content, are routinely used to deny the existence of class oppression, in the vein of a Ben Carson or a Clarence Thomasboth extremely reactionary apologists for capitalism. After noting the existence of racist incidents in the area including a noose in a boys school bathroom, Dawsey makes an outrageous amalgam between the syllabus in my kids African-American history class and by extension the statewide social studies debate and socially unacceptable behavior, e.g., racist attacks. In point of fact, by ending the course designed by Craig, the BAAFN find themselves in alignment with those like Colbeck, including outright racists, who want to prevent young people from learning about the civil rights movement, as well the rise of the labor movement and revolutionary struggles around the world. The entire sordid operation is a self-serving attempt by well-heeled representatives of the upper middle class seeking not to illuminate history, but to bury it. Rather obviously, they want to exorcize any inconvenient facts that stand in the way of their climb up the career ladder, or that of their circle of black capitalists and Democratic Party functionaries. Presenting themselves as the black community, this upper middle class layer loathes mention of the problems facing black workerspoverty, unemployment, poor housing, education, and health care as well as mass incarceration. They oppose the unity of the working class, the only basis for overcoming the yawning and catastrophic growth of social inequality and poverty because the working class is not their concern. Money, position, prestige isand any scurrilous and shameful attack goes in the service of their ambition. The school board responded to the screed of BAAFN and Dawsey by replacing Craig with a black school counseloran individual without the academic credentials of Craig. Birmingham district superintendent Mark Dziatczak sent a letter to parents repeating Dawseys allegations, deceptively claiming the resources listed in the course pilot syllabus failed to meet the depth and breadth of African American history and pledging, in fawning fashion, that in the future officials will seek input from students, parents and staff on pilot courses like an African-American history class. On February 26, a Birmingham school board meeting was held in which BAAFN-affiliated parents spoke at length about how disrespected their children were by both the course curriculum and being subjected to a class on African American history taught by a white teacher. Hammie Dogan claimed, This syllabus is disrespectful and hurting If I pollute a childs mind with negative, infuriating, unhealthy things, that is what we will get as a citizen. Contrada Jewell said she was livid that her children had a field trip to the Holocaust Museum last year in February during Black History Month. She said, Im not being disrespectful to my Jewish friends and family, but this is when you are going to take this trip? The comment revealed the profoundly reactionary, if not anti-Semitic, attitude of these right-wing proponents of identity politics. Addressing the board meeting, Craig argued for his right to teach the class, citing not just his professional credentials but the fact that his parents had put their lives on the line organizing the fight for integrated housing and mobilizing black and white workers in Flint. To the dismay, no doubt, of the group, he emphasized the broader historical context of the fight for racial equality, stating, The labor movement came along. This was the beginning, honestly, of the civil rights movement. It didnt start with Rosa Parks. It started before Rosa Parks. The first sit down was at Dodge Main in Detroit in 1937. He said this historical connection fueled his passion to acquire a Masters degrees in African American studies and labor history. On March 12, Bridge Magazine published Craigs full rebuttal to Dawsey. In a passionate reply drawing the implications of a dangerous growth of censorship, Craig stated that his removal had sent a chill down the spines of his colleagues. What is at stake here is the trend in education to stifle teachers ability to instruct in areas laden with controversy. Districts will do anything to avoid negative publicity, including throwing their own teachers under the bus. Craig also cautioned, As a result of this and other incidents, teachers have now expressed fears about teaching any controversial materials where racism or ethnocentrism is discussed. This includes classic literature, such as Harper Lees To Kill A Mockingbird or Mark Twains Huck Finn . Many residents, students and former students, and colleagues, black and white, have rejected the vile attack on Craig, opposing the racial exclusivity and right-wing identitarian outlook of Dawsey and the BAAFN. I am a former student of Scott Craigs, wrote Jeff Patterson. I think what the district did here is an absolute travesty and truly a loss for the students in the class. In the classes I was in he touched on many important subjects that would be considered uncomfortable for many to confront but served to open your eyes and your mind to better understand our world and our history. An African American history scholar from Pennsylvania, speaking to the WSWS, observed, A look at Craigs syllabus in its totality should have laid any misgivings to rest. It is one that most scholars, black, white, or otherwise, would agree is neither shallow nor racist. The events in Michigan are not separate from the shift to the right within the entire political establishment, including the fascistic agitation against immigrants by Trump and the extreme right, and attacks on the basic democratic rights of the working class. An affluent petty-bourgeois layer, with their own fixation on race and demands for increasing racial divisions in society, plays a complementary role. Having cashed in from identity politics, they have emerged as unequivocal defenders of capitalism. The dirty underside of these debates on race is the avaricious demands of these sections of the upper middle class. Government policy, including black capitalism, set-asides, affirmative action and the endless promotion of identity politics by the media, most notably the New York Times, Dawseys training ground, have created a virulently right-wing and outright racialist milieu. These elements are deeply hostile to the entire working class, both black and white. In particular, Dawsey and the BAAFN reflect the rightward trajectory of the Democratic Partynow deeply discredited for its abandonment of all social reformresting politically on the thin reed of identity politics and the trade union bureaucracy, reinforced by the national security state. A party of endless imperialist wars abroad combined with brutal austerity and censorship at home, the Democrats alongside the Republicans, seek to shred the democratic rights of the working class. It almost goes without saying that the Michigan Education Association, a loyal ally of the big business Democrats, has failed to issue any public defense of Craig or warn of the implications of his removal for teachers everywhere. But the working classof all ethnicitieshas begun to fight, with a record number of strikes and protests across the US, especially among educators. Socialism is once again on the lips of millions of Americans, striking fear into the ruling elites. The bourgeoisie is seeking new ways to reinforce racial divisions within societypromoting varied forms of racism and anti-Semitismbut the working class is taking their measure. We urge educators, students and workers to join the Socialist Equality Party, unite the working class and build the alternativea society based on human need not profit, socialism. The author recommends: The socioeconomic basis of identity politics: Inequality and the rise of an African American elite [30 August 2016] On Saturday, May 4, the International Committee of the Fourth International held the 2019 International May Day Online Rally, the sixth annual online May Day Rally held by the ICFI, the world Trotskyist movement. The rally heard speeches on different aspects of the world crisis of capitalism, and the struggles of the international working class, from 12 leading members of the world party, and its sections and sympathizing organizations around the world. On successive days, the World Socialist Web Site is publishing the texts of the speeches delivered at the rally. Below is the speech delivered by Alex Lantier, national secretary of the Parti degalite socialiste (Socialist Equality Party) in France. On Monday, the WSWS published the opening report to the rally, given by David North, the chairman of the international editorial board of the WSWS and national chairman of the Socialist Equality Party (US). *** I am pleased to bring the fraternal greetings of the Socialist Equality Party of France to this International May Day rally. We are celebrating, for this day of the international working class, the global resurgence of the class struggle now shaking all of Europe. In France, the yellow vests have protested for nearly six months now against the austerity, militarism and police repression of Emmanuel Macron. This movement of hundreds of thousands of workers, as well as self-employed and small business people, first emerged on social media. It developed entirely outside all of the traditional institutions of official politics. The trade unions and established parties who, for decades, have claimed to represent the leftlike the French Communist Party or the New Anticapitalist Partyreacted with open hostility to the launching of the movement, which they initially branded as neo-fascist rioting. The yellow vests demand the resignation of an illegitimate president of the Republic, who is only the president of the rich. Supported by the vast majority of workers, they are confronting the French police state, which has arrested over 6,000 yellow vests and wounded thousands moreincluding dozens who have lost eyes to bean-bag bullets, or had hands torn off by police grenades. And, since millions of Algerian workers and youth began to protest, demanding the fall of the military dictatorship, tens of thousands of Algerians in France have been protesting in solidarity, following the resignation of Algerian President Abdelaziz Bouteflika. Class struggle is rising across Europe, with Berlins mass transit strike in Germany, the one-day Belgian national strike, and the Albanian student strikes to demand lower tuition fees. To the east, Polish unions are now trying to strangle the first national teachers strike since the Stalinist restoration of capitalism in Poland in 1989a strike that has deeply shocked Polands far-right government. To the south, in Portugal, nurses are organizing strikes on social media, independently of unions tied to the social-democratic government, as are dockers, truck drivers, refinery workers and teachers. These struggles vindicate the Trotskyist perspective of the International Committee of the Fourth International (ICFI). Rejection of the diktat of the banks, demands for profound economic change, and moods favorable to irreconcilable struggle dominate in the working class. The Stalinist dissolution of the Soviet Union and restoration of capitalism in 1991 did not mark the End of History and the ultimate triumph of capitalist democracy. The era in which these events could suppress the class struggle is over. After three decades of imperialist wars and a decade of deep economic crisis since the 2008 crash, the spectre of the revolutionary overthrow of capitalism, through the conscious political action of the working class, once again haunts the ruling class. Le Monde diplomatique magazine described the financial aristocracys reaction as Fear. Not of losing an election, failing to pass a given social cut, or of stock market losses. But of insurrection, revolt and destitution. For a half century, the French elite has not felt such fear. Businessmen fear ending up with their heads on pikes, writes the financial magazine LOpinion, and speak among themselves of the 1936 and 1968 French general strikes. After six months of yellow vest protests, it is clear there will be no reformist outcome of the class struggle. Neither Macron, who has declared his admiration for the fascist dictator Philippe Petain, nor the torturers of the Algerian military dictatorship, who killed hundreds of thousands during the Algerian civil war of the 1990s, will give anything to the workers. The alternatives for workers are not reform or revolution, but revolution or counter-revolution. After the mass strikes erupted in Algeria, Macron called for sending in the army to help police the yellow vest protests, with authorization to shoot. This was the first time the French army had been deployed against social protests since the insurrectionary strikes of 19471948, when the capitalist class drowned the last great workers' struggles against fascist rule in blood and mass sackings. One can identify certain calculations being made by Macrons government. Workers witnessed the example of the revolutionary uprising of Egyptian workers in 2011: three years of heroic struggle led to a bloody US-backed coup by General Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, in 2013. Similarly, the Algerian regime is biding its time and preparing repression, coordinated this time with Paris. But to crush the Algerian workers, Paris first wants to make sure that such repression will not provoke an uncontrolled social explosion at home. Already 20,000 Algerians have been marching in France, and Macron hopes to utilise the army to frighten the yellow vests into submission. This International May Day, organized by the ICFI, is the most politically conscious response of the world working class. The way forward is to mobilize the broad mass of the working class in an international struggle for state power, and to build socialism. To mobilize workers in struggle, the ICFI must be built as the revolutionary leadership of the proletariat. The Egyptian revolution was an unforgettable lessonpaid with the blood of thousandsthat militant protests are not enough to overcome entrenched ruling elites. Workers need their own independent action committees and, above all, the political perspective of the Trotskyist vanguard. Workers in struggle, including many yellow vests, feel ever more sharply the need for organization, but they cannot organize through the old bureaucracies. The resurgence of the class struggle has not arisen from the manoeuvres of the trade unions, or of parties linked to Stalinism or social democracy. The yellow vest movement, for its part, as the SEP has reported, has denounced the unions and allied political parties as opportunists, cowards and, above all, as privileged elements, paid off by business to strangle their struggles and prevent the revolution they want to see happen. The movements developing in Europe are the initial stage of a vast radicalisation that is emerging in the international working class. These strikes and protests signal far greater struggles that will erupt around the world. The only movement that can provide them with a revolutionary perspective is the ICFI. That perspective, which is being introduced to workers who are now becoming politically radicalized across the European continent, is the struggle to build the United Socialist States of Europe. For the 2019 election, the Greens are falsely presenting themselves as the party that can avert the worsening global climate change disaster that has triggered school strikes by students across the country, and internationally. When Greens leader Senator Richard Di Natale addressed the National Press Club last week, his speech was billed as unveiling a comprehensive, fully costed plan to achieve 100 percent renewables by 2030. Yet, the axis of his speech was to appeal to Labor Party leader Bill Shorten for a partnership with the Greens to form government after the election, as his predecessor Julia Gillard did in 2010. We want to work constructively, Di Natale pleaded. We want to negotiate. Di Natale refused to rule out anything in striking a climate policy deal with Labor. His party would not even give a blanket no to dubious international carbon permits, by which transnational corporations continue their polluting activities by purchasing so-called offsets. In other words, while claiming to be able to radically reform Australias entire economy, which depends heavily on coal and gas, by 2030 the Greens are seeking to prop up yet another big business Labor government. A closer examination of the Greens plan demonstrates that it is not about saving the environment and the planet, but handing billions of dollars in subsidies and incentives to supposedly green companies. The Greens web site speaks of a clear and achievable plan to encourage billions of investment. But, under capitalism, such investment is made on one basis onlythe extraction of private profit through the exploitation of the working class. In reality, the Greens want to make Australian capitalism more profitable by turning it into a renewable energy superpower. A Clean Energy Export Development Fund would dole out subsidies to create solar fuels export hubs in strategic locations around Australia. Such handouts would be bonanza for the global energy giants, many of which also claim to be transitioning to renewable energy, as well as the green financiers and entrepreneurs who form a significant part of the Greens social base. Another plank in the plan is to restore a price on carbon. It proposes a return to a carbon tax like the one that the Gillard government imposed in 2010. According to the web site: The carbon pricing mechanism that operated from 2012 to 2014 saw the greatest reduction in emissions ever recorded in Australia. That is an outright fabrication. Under the carbon tax, annual emissions continued to remain at near-record levels, over 500 million tonnes, and would have done so for the foreseeable future. Like all solutions based on the capitalist market, the carbon tax left climate policy in the grip of the same profit-driven forces that have produced the disaster. It allowed the corporate polluters to maintain their operations, and profits, while working class households paid the price via soaring electricity and gas prices. The Socialist Equality Party alone stands for urgent action on climate change, against all the parties of the political establishment, including the Greens. Our election manifesto explains that capitalism is an outmoded system, based on the division of the world into antagonistic nation-states, and the dominance of the profit dictates of the corporate elite over every aspect of social life. The only way to halt the destruction of the environment, as well as to end war, poverty and the attacks on democratic rights, is to abolish capitalism and reorganise society along socialist lines. We state: Real action to arrest global warming necessitates conscious economic planning on a national and international scale. The first step, therefore, in halting a climate disaster requires that the major corporations, above all those bearing central responsibility for pollutants, be taken out of private hands, and placed under public ownership and democratic control. At the Press Club, Di Natale said the Greens-backed Gillard government had shown the Greens could work well with Labor. The next parliament was a chance to do big things again. Apart from the carbon tax, what were these big things? The Greens, who once appealed to students and young people by posturing as anti-war, backed a government that signed up to the US pivot to Asia, a provocative strategy based on militarily encircling China, including by hosting US Marines in Darwin. In line with its commitment to Washington, Gillards government also fully supported the US vendetta against journalist and WikiLeaks publisher Julian Assange. The Greens claim to fight for economic equality, but they propped up the Gillard government as it stripped parent payment benefits from tens of thousands of single mothers, privatised disability services and undermined public education through NAPLAN standardised testing. And despite the Greens feigned sympathy for asylum seekers, the Labor government reopened the barbaric refugee prisons on Nauru and Manus Island and proclaimed that none of the detainees would ever be permitted to settle in Australia. In his speech, Di Natale dismissed a partnership, for now, with the Liberal-National Coalition, which brazenly defends the interests of the coal, oil and gas miners. But he held out the prospect of such an agreement if the Coalition got the message in Australias most affluent electorates, which the Greens are specifically targeting. The only hope for bipartisanship is that the Liberals get a hiding, especially in key seats like Kooyong and Higgins [two wealthy inner-Melbourne seats], and voters send a clear message that climate denialism and coal hugging is no longer a viable political strategy. Di Natale personifies the Greens political transformation into an increasingly right-wing formation. Upon becoming party leader in 2015, he declared that his goal was to prepare the Greens to be part of government, as they had been already in Tasmania, where the Greens have supported both Labor and Liberal administrations. The partys base of support today centres on high income, upper-middle class constituencies, mostly working in academia, the public service and layers of business associated with the green corporate sector. Ever since the Greens participation in the Gillard Labor government, the partys vote has declined substantially in every state and federal election, especially in working class areas. Nevertheless, with the entire political establishment increasingly despised by millions of people, the Greens are again offering their services to try to stabilise the parliamentary order, and the capitalist profit system that it serves. We urge all workers, students and youth who want to fight climate change, and for a future, to study the SEPs revolutionary socialist program and contact us to support our election campaign. Authorised by James Cogan for the Socialist Equality Party, Suite 906, 185 Elizabeth Street, Sydney, NSW, 2000. Last week, Dr. John Kapoor, founder of Arizona-based Insys Therapeutics Inc., and four colleagues were found guilty of conspiring to bribe and force physicians to prescribe a highly addictive painkiller called SUBSYS, which is an oral spray of the synthetic opioid fentanyl, a drug that is 50 to 100 times more potent than morphine. They were also convicted of misleading insurers into paying for the drug. According to Reuters, Dr. Kapoor, a billionaire, is the highest-ranking pharmaceutical executive to be convicted in the United States in connection with the opioid crisis. He faces up to 20 years in federal prison. As of 2016, Dr. Kapoor was worth $2.1 billion, with his shares in Insys representing $650 million of his net worth. At that time, the companys stock was up 296 percent since its 2013 initial public offering. However, it was noted by critics that its $331 million in sales in 2015 was due in large part to use of SUBSYS by patients without cancer. SUBSYS was approved in 2012 by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to be used only for cancer patients with intractable pain. Since 2015, Insys and the sales representatives and prescribing physicians on its payroll have been embroiled in legal battles over alleged violations of federal anti-kickback statutes, based on charges that Insys has been paying physicians to prescribe the drug. CBS News correspondent Jim Axelrod reported that in 2016 Insys made 18,000 payments to doctors that totaled over $2 million. By 2016, Insys found itself under investigation by several states for unapproved uses of the drug. It had already settled with the state of Oregon for $1.1 million. Last year, the company paid more than $150 million to resolve a US Justice Department investigation into its schemes to pay kickbacks to doctors to prescribe the powerful opioid medication. Dr. Kapoor was arrested in October of 2017. According to US Attorney Andrew E. Lelling, Todays conviction marks the first successful prosecution of top pharmaceutical executives for crimes related to the illicit marketing and prescribing of opioids. Just as we would street-level drug dealers, we will hold pharmaceutical executives responsible for fueling the opioid epidemic by recklessly and illegally distributing these drugs, especially whole conspiring to commit racketeering along the way. Amidst mounting legal troubles and an uncertain future, Insys shares have fallen more than 90 percent. The opioid crisis began in the early 1990s, specifically with Purdue Pharma and its drug Oxycontin. State and federal regulators noted a sudden dramatic rise of deaths attributed to opioids as well as a sharp increase in the practice of prescribing narcotics for the treatment of pain. Purdue gave false assurances to physicians and patients that its product had a very low risk of causing addiction. The FDA essentially rubber-stamped its findings and set the stage for what is considered as the first wave of the opioid crisis. To increase sales, the company promoted the use of opioids for non-cancer-related pain, even though efficacy and risk data was lacking. By 1999, more than 86 percent of patients using opioids were non-cancer patients. Over the following decade, the pharmaceutical industry was effective in preventing restrictions on opioid over-prescribing through lobbying and use of advocacy groups. Court proceedings protected the pharmaceutical companies and their executives, while sealing the courts findings from the public. The second wave of the opioid crisis took hold around 2010 when measures to decrease opioid prescribing led to deaths associated with the abuse of heroin. With restrictions placed on the prescription of narcotics, heroin was cheap and widely available. Death associated with heroin abuse rose 286 percent from 2002 to 2013, according to the National Capital Poison Center. Because heroin is usually injected, the crisis also contributed to a rise in communicable diseases such as HIV/AIDS and hepatitis B and C. The third and current wave began in 2013 with the rapid increase in illicitly manufactured synthetic opioids such as fentanyl. A study by Kiang, Basu, Chen and Alexander published in JAMA Network Open earlier this year noted that opioid-related mortality rates from synthetic opioids had rapidly increased in the Eastern United States, while mortality associated with natural and semi-synthetic drugs such as oxycodone had remained stable. The study found that in 28 states, the mortality rate from synthetic opioids had more than doubled every two years. In the District of Columbia, the rate had tripled every year since 2013. The authors wrote: Most opioid-related deaths are occurring among young and middle-aged adults. This equates to a significant loss of life. Nationally, overall opioid-related mortality resulted in 0.36 years of life expectancy lost in 2016, which was 14 percent higher than deaths due to firearms and 18 percent higher than deaths due to motor vehicle crashes; 0.17 years of life expectancy lost was due specifically to synthetic opioids. Among the 64,000 drug overdoses in 2016, the sharpest rise was seen among those using synthetic opioids. As of 2017, 29,000 deaths in the US were attributable to fentanyl analogs. Opposition MPs in Papua New Guinea (PNG) are preparing to move a no-confidence motion in an attempt to remove Prime Minister Peter ONeill. The Peoples National Congress (PNC)-led government is disintegrating in the wake of a series of high-profile resignations. The 26 opposition parliamentarians or MPs have allied with two dozen MPs who quit ONeills coalition in the past two weeks and are offering to accommodate other government members. A successful vote in the 111-seat parliament will require the support of 56 MPs. Lobbying intensified over the weekend, with the opposed camps gathering at hotels on either side of Port Moresby, each announcing they had the numbers to secure a majority. Some 1,000 extra police are being deployed in the capital. The government won a procedural vote on Tuesday, by 59 votes to 50, to adjourn parliament until May 28, giving ONeill more time to consolidate support. The no-confidence motion has to be vetted by a parliamentary committee to check that it meets legal requirements before being tabled. The opposition has named James Marape, a former ONeill ally, as their choice for prime minister. Marapes sudden resignation as finance minister last month, citing a lack of trust between the two, sparked the defections. Shifting allegiances within the countrys unstable and corrupt political establishment are not unusual. Nevertheless, the current groundswell of desertions is the most significant in ONeills nearly eight years in office and takes place amid widespread popular hostility to all the parliamentary parties. On May 3, the latest tranche of nine MPs resigned from ONeills PNC. It included three cabinet ministers, Health Minister Puka Temu, Defence Minister Solan Mirisim, and Forestry Minister Douglas Tomuriesa. Six other government MPs joined them in a press conference last Friday announcing their decision to resign. This followed the resignations of eight PNC parliamentarians the previous week. Radio NZ reported that at a PNC caucus meeting ONeill was urged to resign but he refused. Meanwhile, the PNCs main coalition partner, the Pangu Pati, has all but collapsed, with at least half its MPs opposed to party leader Sam Basil and defecting to the opposition. ONeills government is widely regarded as illegitimate. In the 2017 election he won a second five-year term in an undemocratic and disputed poll, with a significantly decreased majority. The election was mired in bribery and corruption, ballot rigging and the wholesale omission of names from the electoral roll. Ongoing turmoil is an expression of explosive social tensions produced by the governments austerity policies imposed in response to the countrys economic crisis, worsened by the collapse in global energy prices. Following protests by students and workers, the government has increasingly turned to police-state measures. The current crisis has erupted over a new $US16 billion natural gas contract. Former Prime Minister Mekere Morauta has denounced the deal signed last month with French company Total, as a potential disaster for PNG. Mekere contends that ONeill hijacked the approval process, putting government finances and landowner interests at risk. Mekere claimed ONeill shut out the State Negotiating Team and the Department of Petroleum, meaning the gas agreement was largely the work of private companies. Mekere said this risks royalties and development levies not being paid, as happened with the $US19 billion ExxonMobil LNG project. Further, billions of kina (the PNG currency) worth of concessions and exemptions were given away, Mekere claimed, in line with the demands of project partners. The deal also fails to meet laws on the supply of gas for the domestic market. The agreement provides for a maximum of 5 percent of gas from the project for domestic purposes but the governments Natural Gas and National Energy policies call for 15 percent, the former PM said. There is deep popular dissatisfaction over the failure of the massive gas projects to produce any benefits for the population. Landowners in the Highlands region have been waiting years for royalties, levies and dividends owed them. In February 2017, more than 1,000 protesters gathered at the ExxonMobil site to demand overdue payments, estimated at over 1 billion kina ($US256 million). In response, the government intensified a police-military operation, involving 300 personnel, to protect the companys operations. A 2018 report by Australian academic Paul Flanagan, Double or Nothing: the Broken Economic Promises of PNG LNG, declared the projects have been a disaster for PNGs people. The impoverished population would have been better off on almost every measure of economic welfare without the ExxonMobil deal, the report concluded. The litany of economic failures included lower than expected GDP gains, which focused on the largely foreign-owned resource sector. Meagre government earnings from the project saw revenue, predicted to be around 1.4 billion Kina ($US590 million) per year in 2016 come in at less than K0.5 billion. Intensifying the political crisis, a court ruling in Singapore on April 5 dealt a blow to a challenge by ONeill to one of Mekeres initiatives as prime minister. The court rejected legal action to wrest control of the Singapore-based PNG Sustainable Development Program (SDP), which holds an estimated $US1.4 billion. Earnings from the SDPs shareholding in the formerly BHP-owned Ok Tedi gold mine are meant to fund community development. ONeill wants more direct control over the SDPs billions. Claiming that the SDP is being run in a highly unsatisfactory manner and that it has failed to benefit local people, he has vowed to continue the legal fight. The political infighting in ruling circles involves a sordid grab for the control of financial spoils. The only beneficiary of the exploitation of PNGs vast natural resources has been a layer of business leaders and politicians who operate in the interests of the mainly US- and Australian-based banks and corporations. The decline in the living standards of ordinary people has been stark. A major recession hit the non-resource sector from 2015. By 2016, household incomes had fallen by 6 percent, employment by 27 percent and spending on government services, including education, health and infrastructure, by 32 percent. The growing political instability is viewed with alarm by the regional powers, Australia and New Zealand, which have backed ONeill. PNG is of vital economic and strategic importance to both in their drive to dominate the South West Pacific and counter Chinas growing influence. The author also recommends: State of emergency declared following unrest in Papua New Guinea [23 June 2018] After the Papua New Guinea election: The way forward for the working class and rural poor [29 July 2017] In an interview with Liberation, the daily newspaper, late last month, Jean-Luc Melenchon, the founder of Unsubmissive France (La France insoumiseLFI), proposed a coalition with the Socialist Party (PS) for the 2022 French presidential elections. LFI will seek to use its vote in the European elections this month to build a coalition, he said. If the election gives us strength, we will assume our responsibility. We will propose a new popular federation to be built for the next elections and in the ecological and social movements. Melenchon made clear that he is not ruling out a coalition with anyone. In the Assembly, we even vote at times with the right. Its the content that counts, not the label. As for the content, the programme of LFI provides a good point of departure to discuss everything. Calling for unity with the PS, he said: We must clarify positions. Will the PS separate itself from the [German] Social Democratic Party, which is participating in a coalition with Merkel? ... In the National Assembly, the deputies seated at the left vote together nine times out of ten. Why is it possible in the Assembly, but not when we stand in front of a journalist? These statements show that while the working class is moving to the left, in opposition to the entire political establishmenta movement that has found its initial expression in mass yellow vest protests since last NovemberMelenchons response is to shift further to the right. Despite winning 7 million votes in the 2017 presidential elections, Melenchon proved incapable of and uninterested in taking any action to assist the yellow vest movement. He called no mass protests to support the yellow vests and looked on as unions strangled strikes called in solidarity with them. Instead, he issued statements hailing it as a movement of the people and attacking Marxism, calling for a break with the centrality of the concept of proletariat and socialist revolution as the inevitable pairing in the dynamic of History. Now he is preparing to join a bourgeois government with the PS, committed to intensifying austerity attacks and imperialist wars, and to accelerating the build-up of a police state against the working class. The PS is rightly hated among workers and youth. It is polling at 5 percent, and it is unclear whether it will reach the threshold required for seats in the European parliament. Its collapse is the outcome of its role over four decades in imposing attacks on the working class and support for imperialist wars. To call for an alliance with the PS means, in fact, to support the current government of Emmanuel Macron, which is deploying the French army against protesters, has hailed the legacy of the fascist dictator Petain as a great soldier, and is sending thousands of riot police to shoot rubber bullets and tear gas at protesters. Macrons government is a political creature of the PS. It is staffed mainly by current and former PS officialsmost prominently the president of the rich himself, who was finance minister under PS President Francois Hollande. Defence Minister Florence Parly, Interior Minister Christophe Castaner, Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian and others are long-time PS officials. In the case of Le Drian and Castaner, they remained inside the PS for months while serving in the Macron governmentLe Drian ended his own 40-year membership only in 2018. Macron is merely building upon the achievements of his PS predecessor, Hollande. His labour law, announced within three months of taking officetearing up limits on working hours and restrictions on businesses from firing workerscontained the same measures that Hollande sought to impose a year earlier but withdrew in the face of mass opposition. His anti-protest law, allowing police to ban anyone from attending a protest, follows upon Hollandes two-year-long state of emergency beginning in November 2015a measure voted in the National Assembly by Melenchons party. Such is the character of Melenchons popular federation! Melenchons appeal also underscores the right-wing and bourgeois character of the parties standing alongside LFI in the European elections, as part of the European United Left/Nordic Green Left bloc. They include Podemos in Spain, the Left Party in Germany and Syriza in Greece. The depute is following a path that has been well-trodden by his fellow European pseudo-left allies. Their response to the upsurge of working-class struggle, after a decade of austerity, is driven by the upper-middle class social forces they represent, and their fear of and hostility to the working class. Universally, they are closing ranks with the state and official bourgeois parties, and directly participating in the repression of the working class. In Spain, Podemos has been a junior coalition government partner with the Socialist Party that has carried out a police-state crackdown on Catalan-nationalist protests. In Greece, Syriza (the misnamed Coalition of the Radical Left) came to power in 2015 by appealing to anti-austerity opposition in the working class, but immediately invited the right-wing Anel party into a coalition, and has since imposed even more brutal austerity than its predecessors in Pasok and New Democracy. And in Germany, the Left Party, while sitting on leading military and other government committees with the Grand Coalition, removed all criticisms of the European Union as militaristic, undemocratic and neo-liberal from its constitution in February. Implicated in these political crimes is not only Melenchon, but the New Anti-capitalist Party and the entire French pseudo-left, which have promoted Syriza and Podemos from the beginning. Melenchon knows very well the PS is hated. On several occasions in his interview with Liberation, he states that he intends to fill a political vacuum created by the collapse of the anti-working class social democratic parties and trade unions. We are not in the 1970s anymore, he said. The political landscape has collapsed. It is not my doing. The voters have dissolved the PS and pushed us ahead. We are responding to our own situation, not another. His response is entirely in keeping with his long political career. After a brief membership in the Internationalist Communist Organisation (OCI) in the 1970s, following its break from Trotskyism and the International Committee of the Fourth International in 1971, Melenchon joined the PS in 1976. He became an advisor to the government of Francois Mitterrand after it carried out its austerity turn in 1983 and implemented sweeping cuts to social spending and workers living standards. He was a minister in the PS government of Lionel Jospin until 2003. Melenchon resigned from the party in 2008. His latest statements confirm that this decision was nothing more than a ruse to deceive workers. He had concluded that the partys discrediting in the eyes of the working class meant that a new left political trap was needed. Under conditions of an upsurge of class struggle, he is preparing the short journey home. In a joint meeting with two long-time PS deputies, Emmanuel Maurel and Marie-Noelle Lienemann (who have since joined LFI) last September, Melenchon was evidently emotionally touched by the wretched manoeuvre he is seeking to carry out: I have not come here to woo you, or to reproach you for your past errors, because you could point out that I shared many of them. My heart is full of enthusiasm if your paths join with ours. That this long solitude may come to an end where I have been separated from my family. My friends, Ive missed you. The working class can only conduct a fight against the Macron government and the capitalist system it defends through an irreconcilable struggle against the entire political establishment, including its pseudo-left flank, represented by Melenchon and the NPA. The key task is the building of a revolutionary party to arm the growing movement of the working class with a socialist perspective. This is the perspective fought for by the International Committee of the Fourth International and its French section, the Socialist Equality Party. More than 20,000 teachers participated in statewide one-day walkouts across Oregon on Wednesday to express their support for public education. They were joined by thousands of other students, school workers and families. Twenty-five districts were forced to close due to a lack of adequate staff and substitute teachers to operate, while in other districts, teachers left class early. Major rallies and protests took place in Portland, Salem, Eugene and Bend. Educators, like their counterparts across the United States and internationally, feel compelled to fight against the poor school conditions produced by nearly four decades of budget cuts and austerity. Overcrowded classrooms, high caseloads for nurses and school psychologists, and poorly funded Special Education and Arts programs have become the norm for public schools. Representatives of the World Socialist Web Site Teacher Newsletter distributed leaflets to attendees at the rally in downtown Portland, speaking with educators and supporters about the need to build rank-and-file committees to unite the working class in a common fight to defend public education, in opposition to the Democrats, Republicans and the trade unions. Over the past year, the unions have worked mightily to isolate the emerging struggles of teachers and to shut down any strike as rapidly as possible. In keeping with the pattern set by the American Federation of Teachers (AFT) and National Education Association (NEA) throughout the teachers strike wave over the past year, the Oregon Education Association (OEA) and its affiliated local unions called the demonstration in an attempt to diffuse the mounting anger of educators. At the same time, they sought to use the one-day action to bolster the Democratic Party, which has been directly responsible for the defunding of the Oregon education system as the dominant state party since 1988. Framing the rally as a means to appeal to the state legislature to finally invest in public education, the OEA unions have heavily promoted the Democrats Student Success Act, which proposes a .57 percent business tax to allocate $1 billion annually to K12 schools by 2020. Though this amount is less than the bare minimum $2.5 billion recommended by the Quality Education Commission and will do nothing to resolve the crisis of public education, OEA President John Larson declared that the proposal would provide game-changing investments in all students. The cuts to public education, which in Oregon have been carried out by the Democrats, have been drastic. Dithya, a ninth-grade student at Sunset High School, spoke with reporters at the Portland rally about the fate of education if nothing changes. Class sizes are going to grow larger. Electives will get cut, since they arent necessary to graduation. Her friend Isabella added, At my sisters school, they proposed cutting the whole Spanish program. She continued, Right now, teachers arent able to provide the best education, since they cant pay attention to us like theyd like to. They cant help each individual student, or take all our questions. Kids are the future. Without education, we are screwed. Though she expressed doubts and questions about socialism, Dithya said, I do believe in equal opportunity. And I believe that every human has basic rights to food, shelter, and education. Many of the protesting teachers recognize that this supposedly historic funding bill will not resolve the fundamental crisis that they have watched unfold in their classrooms over decades. Two billion is small change, a high school teacher told WSWS reporters at a demonstration of thousands in downtown Portland. We have so many problems to address. Seven billion could do something. So I am mad, and its hard for me to be here [at the rally]. This is all to diffuse a larger strike, which [the OEA unions] dont want. The Portland Association of Teachers say theyre ready to fight, but I dont know. Bryan, an eighth-grade English teacher at Harriet Tubman Middle School, expressed additional criticisms of the efforts by the unions and Democratic Party to diffuse a broader struggle. In Oakland, the teachers led wildcats. This [rally] here today is a field trip. The unions are telling us this is a historic thing, where we can organize and really show them [the state government]. But I am ready to stay out and not going back in until we get everything we need. This kind of low-impact action takes away anything that makes a mass movement powerful. He asked, How is this gathering of educators connected to all the other movements, like West Virginia? How are the OEA and NEA connecting us here to those movements all over? Lynn, a teacher at Beverly Cleary K8 School and friend of Bryan, answered, Its all divide and conquer. ... The corporations run the show. Bryan rejected the idea that the problems of public education could be resolved through identity politics, stating that the underfunded school districts had not been helped by the hiring of Superintendent Guadalupe Guerrero, who had been touted as a means to strengthen diversity and benefit black and brown students. Politicians are great at shapeshifting, he declared, of dressing things up as if they were progressive when they arent. Its like Obama. Do I need a killer to look like me? No. To carry their struggle forward, educators must form new organizations of struggle completely independent of the unions, to fight for what schools and students need, rejecting what big-business politicians claim is affordable. These organizations need to be based on an understanding that the attacks on public education are not local issues, but are a national and international phenomenon driven by the global crisis of capitalism, in opposition to the unions insistent efforts to isolate strikes and focus on local school boards and budgets. The task facing teachers everywhere is to build a broad movement of the working class, uniting teachers with other sections of workers, to carry out mass demonstrations and to prepare for a general strike. Oregon educators can help build the independent political movement necessary to wage a real fight for fully-funded education that meets all social needs. We urge all teachers, school workers, students and families to sign up for notifications and share your contributions with the WSWS Teacher Newsletter . US President Donald Trump signed a grant of clemency for former US Army first lieutenant Michael Behenna on Tuesday, fully pardoning him of war crimes for which he was convicted in 2009. Behenna was found guilty of the 2008 murder of Ali Mansur Mohamed in Iraq and has been associated with a group of US military personnel convicted of war crimes often referred to as the Leavenworth 10. After his conviction, Behenna was sentenced to serve 25 years in the United States Disciplinary Barracks, the military prison located in Fort Leavenworth, Kansas. His sentence was reduced to 15 years by the army clemency and parole board, and he was granted parole under Democratic President Barack Obama in 2014 after serving only five years of his prison sentence. Behenna killed Mansur while questioning him about a roadside bombing that killed members of the platoon which Behenna commanded. He effectively kidnapped Mansur after he was released from custody due to a lack of evidence connecting him to the explosions, and instead decided to question Mansur on his own, according to an interview favorable to his case published in the Washington Post last month. During his trial Behenna confessed that he took Mansur to a railroad covert, then stripped him naked and held a gun to his head before he finally shot him in what amounted to an extrajudicial execution. Behennas defense attorneys said that he had acted in self-defense because Mansur had tried to take his weapon. However, it is highly unlikely that a naked and defenseless prisoner would have been able to attack Behenna, a physically intimidating army lieutenant who had already threatened to kill him. The execution of Mansur in a most degrading and brutal fashion, along with Behennas claim of acting in self-defense, could be taken straight out of the playbook of the hundreds of police killings that take place in the US each year. The pardon by Trump likewise dovetails with the impunity granted to such police killers, who are almost never prosecuted. Behennas case and that of the convicted soldiers held in Fort Leavenworthsmall fry compared to the major war criminals like Bush, Cheney, Rumsfeld and Obamahas garnered vocal support from the most right-wing layers of the ruling establishment, including elected officials, conservative news outlets, and the military. Last December, President Trump intervened on behalf of Army Major and former Green Beret Mathew Golsteyn, also convicted of war crimes in Iraq, to say that he would review his case, calling him a hero. Trump also tweeted that he would move Navy SEAL Eddie Gallagher to less restrictive confinement before his trial, charged with fatally stabbing and disrespecting the corpse of a teenage prisoner in Iraq. The pardon comes at a time when the entire US ruling establishment is shifting far to the right in the face of mounting opposition by the international working class to austerity and war. The presence of white supremacist and fascist cells in the US military and police forces has recently been exposed, showing that war criminals like Behenna, Golsteyn, Gallagher and others are not outliers, but are being actively cultivated in the military for the ruling class to use to terrorize and oppress the working class both within the US and abroad. The future war criminal had a police background: his father was a former FBI and Oklahoma state bureau of investigation agent, his mother a longtime federal prosecutor. It is people like Behenna who the ruling establishment want to recruit and cultivate as brutal killers in the US military. After expressing the desire to fight terrorists after the September 11 attacks on the World Trade Centers in New York City, Behenna enrolled in the ROTC program while in college at the University of Central Oklahoma. After graduation, he was selected to attend the US Armys Ranger School and was assigned to the 101st Airborne Division as a platoon leader when he was deployed to Iraq. President Trump, who has gathered around him fascist advisers, military generals and white supremacists, aims to embolden these far-right layers within the military and police with the pardoning of Behenna. No prominent Democrat will echo the statement issued by the American Civil Liberties Union, which branded the pardon the presidential endorsement of a murder. Workers and young people attending a Socialist Equality Party (SEP) rally late last month in Parramatta, in Sydneys western suburbs, speak out in defence of WikiLeaks publisher and journalist Julian Assange. The rally was addressed three SEP election candidatesOscar Grenfell, who is contesting the Parramatta lower-house seat, and Richard Phillips and John Davis who running for NSW Senate seatsand SEP National Committee member Nick Beams. James McGlone, who is a friend of Assanges father, also spoke. Authorised by James Cogan for the Socialist Equality Party, Suite 906, 185 Elizabeth Street, Sydney, NSW, 2000. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has spent the past week staging provocations and making military threats everywhere from the Caribbean shores of Venezuela to the Persian Gulf, the South China Sea and the Arctic Circle. Pompeo, the thuggish former Army tank captain, who claims divine inspiration for his every action, staged his latest provocation Tuesday by summarily canceling a scheduled meeting with German Chancellor Angela Merkel and flying to Baghdad. He flew into the Iraqi capital under a cover of secrecy in an attempt to strongarm the Iraqi government into backing the US war buildup against Iran. He was also there to push for further concessions to Exxon and other US energy conglomerates in the name of diversifying Iraqs supplies. The trip to Iraq served the dual purpose of escalating the US war buildup in the Middle East and snubbing Germany, with which Washington is in conflict over a host of issues ranging from trade and Iran to the Nordstream 2 Russian gas pipeline. Wednesday marked one year since US President Donald Trump unilaterally withdrew from the 2015 Iran nuclear deal or JCPOA, which Tehran signed with the US, Russia, China, the UK, Britain and France. The agreement severely limited Irans nuclear program and initiated a strict inspections regime in return for the lifting of crippling economic sanctions imposed by Washington and its allies. Since then, Washington has steadily tightened a regime of extra-territorial and illegal economic sanctions that are on a scale tantamount to war. They are aimed at stopping all Iranian oil exports, cutting the country off from the world financial system and reducing its economy to ruin in order to further the US goal of installing a puppet regime in Tehran. Pompeo and other US officials have touted the dispatch of the USS Abraham Lincoln's carrier battle group to the Persian Gulf along with a wing of nuclear-capable B-52 bombers as evidence that US imperialism is fully prepared to respond with overwhelming force to any perceived threat to US interests in the region that can be pinned on Tehran. The US has never been closer to an all-out war with Iran, a country four times the size and with more than twice the population of Iraq, the scene of the last major direct US military intervention in the region, which led to a million deaths and left the entire Middle East in turmoil. A new war would drag in the entire region and, inevitably, Washingtons great power rivals, becoming the antechamber of World War III. Even while bringing the Middle East to the brink of a new conflagration, Washington is threatening military action against Venezuela, with Pompeo insisting on Sunday that a direct US regime-change intervention in the South American countrylike Iran the target of brutal US sanctionswould be lawful. Meanwhile, on the eve of his flight to Iraq, Pompeo was in Finland attending a conference of countries with territory in the Arctic in which he denounced Beijing for pursuing national security aims in the region and Moscow for a pattern of aggressive behavior in the Arctic. He even threatened Canada over control of the Northwest Passage. While hailing the thawing of ice in the polar region for opening up new sea lanes and the potential exploitation of vast mineral wealth, Pompeo refused to sign a joint statement of the Arctic countries because it included a reference to climate change. Then there is the dangerously escalating confrontation with China, with the US set to increase tariffs on Chinese goods to 25 percent by Friday and Beijing vowing to take countermeasures. In the midst of this drive toward all-out trade war, the US sent two of its warships once again into waters adjacent to Chinas Nansha Islands, a so-called freedom of navigation operation designed as a military provocation that could lead to armed conflict. More and more, world politics today resemble the conditions prevailing in the run-up to the first and second world wars, a period in which Leon Trotsky warned that history was bringing humanity face to face with the volcanic eruption of American imperialism. This drive to global war is a product not merely of the maniacal outlook of Trump, Pompeo, Pence and Bolton, but rather of the fundamental contradictions of a crisis-ridden capitalist orderbetween world economy and the outmoded nation-state system on the one hand, and socialized production and the private ownership of the means of production on the other. US capitalism has sought to offset its declining global hegemony by military means, engaging in unending wars over the last quarter century. In terms of its economy, the capitalist ruling class has directed all of its policies to sustaining the continuous rise of the stock market and preventing a repeat of the 2008 financial crash. The encouragement of the uninterrupted accumulation of profits by means of financial market manipulation and speculation only assures that the next financial and economic meltdown will be all the more catastrophic. What are the social effects? Under conditions in which the majority of US workers have not seen an increase in real wages in more than three decades, the growth of financial parasitism has led to an enormous intensification of social inequality and rising social tension. This is giving rise to a growth in the class struggle, expressed in the nationwide wave of teachers strikes, the radicalization of youth and, most recently, Wednesdays globally coordinated strike of Uber drivers. No section of the capitalist ruling elite and its political representatives, Trump and the Republicans or their ostensible opponents in the Democratic Party, have a rational solution to these intensifying economic and social contradictions. They are driven to find a way out with a turn toward authoritarian methods of rule at home and by deflecting internal tensions outward by means of military violence. They are, in short, looking for a war. Exactly when and where it will come first remains to be seen. There is in the crisis of US imperialism, its turn toward global military confrontation as well as the domestic social and political context, an echo of the way in which internal crises drove the Nazi regime that headed Germany to war in the 1930s. The late British historian Tim Mason wrote in his Nazism, Fascism and the Working Class the following about the turn to war by Hitlers Third Reich: The economic, social and political tensions within the Reich became steadily more acute after the summer of 1937; while it seems safe to say that Hitler himself understood very little of their technical content, it can be proved that he was informed of their existence and was aware of their gravity. If the existence in the winter of 19378 of a conscious connection in Hitlers mind between this general crisis and the need for a more dynamic foreign policy cannot yet be established, functional relationships between these two aspects may nonetheless be suggested The only solution open to this regime of the structural tensions and crises produced by dictatorship and rearmament was more dictatorship and rearmament, then expansion, then war and terror, then plunder and enslavement. The stark, ever-present alternative was collapse and chaos, and so all solutions were temporary, hectic, hand-to-mouth affairs, increasingly barbaric improvisations around a brutal theme. Changing what needs to be changed, there is in the know-nothing Pompeos frantic flights from South America, to the Arctic, to the Middle East, threatening war and economic destruction wherever he goes, the same temporary, hectic, hand-to-mouth character to the Trump administrations policies. They too are accompanied by brutal and barbaric improvisations, from the attempts to starve the peoples of Venezuela and Iran into submission to the near-genocidal US-backed military campaign against Yemen to the threat of a full-scale global war. Until now, the US ruling class has been able to hatch its plans for global aggression behind the backs of the American people, relying on the absence of any organized resistance to war. But with the growth of the class struggle, popular anti-war sentiment will inevitably take on active forms and meet up with rising opposition of the working class to social inequality and the attacks on democratic rights. The contradictions that are behind the eruption of American imperialism cannot be overcome within the framework of the Democratic Party, which is itself a willing and active protagonist in the war fever of the ruling class. The fight against war is the fight for socialism, and the fight for socialism requires the fight against war. Only through the development of a mass social movement, embedded in and led by the international working class, and directed at the overthrow of the capitalist system itself, can the drive to a new world war be stopped. The reckless character of US imperialisms actions was underscored by the visit this week of Secretary of State Mike Pompeo to London. Preceding the state visit of President Donald Trump to the UK next month, Pompeos remit was to demand that Theresa Mays government toe the line in backing the global geo-strategic imperatives of US imperialism or else. Virtually every word out of Pompeo mouth was a threateither to the UK, to Washingtons strategic adversaries Russia and China, or to those countries it is actively preparing to attack, including Venezuela and Iran. Pompeo met with Conservative Prime Minister May, held a joint press conference with Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt, and gave the Margaret Thatcher Lecture on the US/UK relationship at the Centre for Policy Studies in London. Of particular concern was Britains developing economic relationship with China, which is understood by the Trump administration as an existential threat to its plans for global hegemony. Only two weeks ago, the May government provisionally agreed, at a meeting of the National Security Council (NSC), to allow Chinese conglomerate Huawei to supply noncore infrastructure to its planned 5G network. This flies in the face of US calls for a boycott of Huaweis products and its warning that cooperation with Huawei threatens NATO security. The decision exposed the conflicting interests of different factions of the British ruling elite and approval of the policy required the casting vote of May herself. Such are the tensions over the UKs future political and economic strategy that the decision was leakedthe first time this has happened following an NSC meetingwith the anti-China defence minister and pro-US hawk Gavin Williamson sacked as a result. The prospect of Chinese access to UK infrastructure prompted furious denunciations from Washington, led by Pompeo, including threats that the US could end electronic surveillance and intelligence coordination with Britain. Pompeo warned last month, Weve made clear that if the risk exceeds the threshold for the United States, we simply wont be able to share that information any longer. In its drive for global domination, the US is breaking up the post-war order, with every country once deemed an ally now cast as a potential adversary. Immediately prior to Pompeos arrival in London, he cancelled a scheduled trip to Germany in order to visit Iraq. In Baghdad, he issued further threats against Iran, declaring that the US opposes states interfering in other countries and stands ready to ensure that Iraq is a sovereign, independent nation. This was just three days after the US announced the dispatch of the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln and US Air Force bombers to the Persian Gulf region to threaten Iran. Such hypocrisy cannot conceal the fact that the US is interfering in every country, including those that are historically its closest allies. On the UK decision to work with Huawei, Pompeo warned, From Americas perspective, each country has a sovereign right to make its own decision about how to deal with the challenge. But this had strict limits that the US would enforce. With respect to 5G we are making our views very well known. Like a mafia boss making the offer that cannot be refused, he added that he had great confidence that the United Kingdom will never take an action that will break the special relationship. The consequences were made clear: The US has an obligation to ensure the places where we operate, places where US information is, places where we have national security risks, that they operate within trusted networks and that is what we will do. This designation covered the entire planet. In response, Hunt promised that the UK would not compromise its ability to share intelligence with the US. No final decision had been made on cooperation with Huawei on the UKs 5G and the government was still considering the evidence. He hailed the security relationship that we have with the United States, which has underpinned the international order since 1945, adding that the preservation of that is our number one foreign policy priority. The political destabilisation of the UK by the Trump administration is extraordinary in its scope. While heavily supportive of Brexitas a means to further undermine what Trump describes as the European Union cartelTrump insists that Brexit must be on US terms. This conflicts with sections of the UK bourgeoisie who see Brexit as an opportunity to better exploit global investment and trade opportunities, especially with China and India. The UK and the US are also in conflict over Iran. Last week, Washington refused to extend waivers to eight countries that had previously been allowed to continue to import Iranian oil and natural gas, although at reduced quantities. In a sharply worded response last Thursday, a statement from Brussels signed by the high representative of the European Union and the foreign ministers of France, Germany and the UK declared that they take note with regret and concern of the decision by the United States not to extend waivers with regards to trade in oil with Iran. It went on to say, We also note with concern the decision by the United States not to fully renew waivers for nuclear non-proliferation projects in the framework of the JCPoA (Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action). It added, We deeply regret the re-imposition of sanctions by the United States following their withdrawal from the JCPoA. Trump abrogated the UN-endorsed JCPoA nuclear accord last year, threatening tougher sanctions against Tehran, which are now being implemented. France, Germany and the UK stressed that the JCPoA remained a crucial element of the global nuclear non-proliferation regime and essential for our national and shared European security. In a further rejoinder to the US, they declared, The remaining participants to the JCPoA are committed to working on the preservation and maintenance of financial channels and exports for Iran, together with third countries interested in supporting the JCPoA. Referencing Washingtons declared great power adversaries, it insisted, We encourage all countries, including Russia and China as JCPoA participants, to make their best efforts to pursue the legitimate trade that the agreement allows for, through concrete steps. US bellicosity against Iran was ratcheted up in London. Pompeo denounced the Iranian leadership as lawless and bracketed it with China and Russia, warning, Now is not the time for either of us [the US and UK] to go wobbly Where there was unanimity between Pompeo and the May government was over the regime-change operation against Nicolas Maduros government in Venezuela. Pompeo was asked his thoughts on UK Labour Leader Jeremy Corbyns endorsement of Maduro, a reference to Corbyns criticism of the US for outside interference in Venezuela. This was a planted question, with Sky News reporting that it came from townhall.com a website with close links to Trump. Pompeo responded, It is disgusting to see leaders, in not only the United Kingdom, but the United States as well, who continue to support the murderous dictator Maduro It is not in either of our countrys best interests for those leaders to continue to advocate on their behalf. Hunt made sure to equate the Maduro regime with socialism. In a reply summing up the fear of the ruling elite over the growth of political opposition within the working class to social inequality, which is fuelling an international strike wave and rising opposition to militarism and war, Hunt said that Labour Shadow Chancellor John McDonnell describes this [the Maduro government] as socialism in action and I think people need to draw their own conclusions about what his own plans might be for the UK. Thousands of Uber and Lyft drivers struck and protested Wednesday in advance of Ubers Initial Public Offering (IPO) on the New York Stock Exchange Friday. The strike was an international event with rideshare drivers participating in the United States, Australia, Great Britain, France, Nigeria, Kenya, Chile, Brazil, Panama, Costa Rica and Uruguay. The drivers were protesting poverty wages while executives stand to reap tens, if not hundreds of millions of dollars each off the companys IPO. The stock offering, which is expected to be the biggest in 2019, could increase the companys value by up to $20 billion, according to some projections. Uber drivers on strike in Chicago and New York speak out against exploitation of gig economy workers (Video: Michael Walters) The drivers use of social media and other technologies to coordinate simultaneous job actions around the world foreshadows how broader sections of the working class will organize against the global corporate giants. The action was also organized largely outside of the control of the unions. Uber is deliberately lowering driver earnings in order to maximize the projected stock windfall for investors. The company announced a further 25 percent cut in driver compensation per mile last winter with Uber now taking an average 33 percent in commission for each ride. Drivers average $10 to $12 an hour in the US, a wage that puts many below the official poverty line. Additionally, Uber, its North American competitor Lyft, and other ridesharing platforms internationally, benefit from misclassifying drivers as independent contractors rather than employees. Trumps Department of Labor, in an opinion letter issued April 29, declared its intention to classify such gig economy workers as independent contractors. In its Securities and Exchange Commission filing, Uber admitted that classifying drivers as employees would force it to incur significant additional expenses for compensating Drivers, potentially including expenses associated with the application of wage and hour laws (including minimum wage, overtime, and meal and rest period requirements), employee benefits, social security contributions, taxes, and penalties. The company told investors, As we aim to reduce driver incentives to improve our financial performance, we expect Driver dissatisfaction will generally increase. In an effort to eliminate dissatisfied drivers, Uber is heavily investing in driverless vehicle technologies. World Socialist Web Site reporters spoke to striking drivers in New York, London, San Diego, New York and Boston. In London, around 45,000 Uber drivers work in the capital, earning 5 ($6.52) an hour on average after costs, well below the minimum wage of 8.21 ($10.70) an hour. Muhumed Ali explained, We are here today demonstrating against Uber because the cost of driving is increasing day by day, but the fare is stuck and is low. So, we are demanding they increase the fare and reduce the commission Uber takes, which is at 25 percent at the moment. On top of that, Transport for London have introduced a congestion charge of 24 ($31.27) per day. The driver has to pay every single day. Uber is not paying, the customers are not paying, drivers are paying. Muhumed We need to make a statement. Tomorrow the company is going public and the bosses are making billions, while the driverswho are the reason the company worksare living in conditions of poverty. We are showing the world that this is not fair, and something has to be done about it. Increasing the fare is not a big deal to Uber, but they want it cheap, cheap, cheap. Some drivers have to work longer and longer hours and its not safe. If you want to make 100 ($130) you have to keep going for 12 hours. Id prefer to have time at home with my kids, but I have no choice. Asked if he thought Uber drivers shared a common struggle with others in the gig economy, Muhumed replied, Absolutely. The corporations are getting more greedy. They are getting all the pennies they can from the workers with these exploitative methods. If you dont work for a week, then you have nothing, you have to turn to your family. You still have to pay rent, a mortgage, for your car. Drivers get into debt. Some people are stuck with old, expensive-to-run cars because of this. You dont have a reserve. In this job, if you havent worked for a day then you have nothing. In an appeal to other drivers to come out and protest, he said, Join us. Together we are strong, together we can demand what we want and together we can put Uber on its knees. We can force them to do what we want, if we are together. Uber dont want to talk to any union. They dont want to talk even to two drivers together. So, dont be afraid, come forward and fight for your rights. Will also spoke to the WSWS. Im here in solidarity with the Uber taxi drivers, he said. I work for UberEats and Deliveroo. Im familiar with the business model and the practices of Uber and so Im happy to be out supporting these guys because I know what theyre going through. Will Uber, he said, makes a regressive use of technology to undermine labour legislation. Thats essentially what youre seeing, a use of technology to return workers to 19th or 20th century working conditions where they dont have basic rights. This is a growing phenomenon and while companies can still make money from doing it, it will continue to grow. So, workers should come and join, grab a banner and get stuck in. Muhammad, an Uber taxi driver said, How Uber treats its workers is completely unfair. When the new congestion charge came in, Uber refused to pay it, they made the drivers pay. So many drivers feel forced to cancel jobs which take them into the congestion charge zone. But if you cancel too many jobs, then Uber halts your account and they stop you from working. We are not going to stand for it. Today we are very peaceful, very well behaved. But if Uber do not listen then we will be blocking streets. This is their chance to listen, or they will have major disruption on their hands. Uber and Lyft drivers also protested and struck in New York City. Hector said, In New York City, the TLC [Taxi and Limousine Commission] is supposed to protect us. Theyve failed us miserably. The proof is driver suicides and driver poverty. Hector Uber has been around since 2010, and from that time on theyve been abusing us. Im not just thinking about me, its about the whole community. We support people all around the world. In London and California, were all the same. Cheikh Ndiaye, an Uber driver for the past four years, said, Im here for my rights. We are working too many hours. My back is starting to give me problems from sitting so much. I work 100 hours a week, and most days I make $200 or less. This is less than $14 an hour, which is lower than any city minimum wage especially in New York City where apartments and everything are so expensive. And if you get a ticket for any little thing, you have to pay from $200 to $1000. Elizabeth Pereira, an Uber driver for nearly three years, spoke to the WSWS outside the Uber Greenlight Center in Saugus, Massachusetts, north of Boston. Its not right. For the last three months, theyre cutting our fares in half. We want to get this back. Were working for pennies. It used to be a $1.20 that we would get, and now they are paying 66 cents. Elizabeth They tried to explain that they need to raise 20 cents per minute when we are in traffic. Theyve charged the riders more, but they want to cut us back. Elizabeth said driving was her only job. I came here five years ago from Brazil and I was working in manufacturing in New Bedford. And, this was a good opportunity for me because I dont have an education here, and Im learning English. But now we are fighting for our rights. Theyre making all this money and theyre trying to make drivers like slaves. Theyre making billions and billions because of us. They need us to make their money. Approximately 30 drivers picketed the airport in San Diego, California, on Wednesday. Many more stopped using the Uber app entirely. I like doing this, Harold, who has been driving for Uber and Lyft for two years, said. Ive never had a bad rider and I get to meet people from all over the world. I used to be a full-time employee for Home Depot but now Im retired. The extra money from Uber helps supplement Social Security, but to have no benefits hurts. Uber cut our pay by 25 percent and gas prices are going through the ceiling. Most companies pay a gas surcharge; Uber doesnt. Uber just bought a ride share company in Dubai, several bike companies, and is working on self-driving cars with the money we put into the company. They, and Lyft, are trying to make up some of their billion-dollar losses by cutting into our pay. Kristie Kristie, an Uber driver for two-and-a-half years, used to work for a telecommunications company before she had to quit because of arthritis. I spend 12 hours a day, every day, driving, she said. Sometimes you sit around forever and only make $3 on a ride. Sometimes I average $6 to $7 an hour, sometimes $23 an hour, but usually I average $8 an hour. Im making half of what I did a year ago. Most of us dont have another income. Speaking to the growing inequality over the last three decades, Kristie said, We all grew up with our families having full-time jobs until you retired. Its not like that anymore. It used to be a middle-class society, now its just rich and poor. You cant even afford a home anymore. I havent had a vacation in who knows how many years. She added, Ubers probably not paying any taxes either. We cant go to the IRS and say were not paying taxes because we dont have enough money, but Uber does. A few hundred Lyft and Uber drivers protested in Los Angeles as part of a group known as Rideshare Drivers United. Most picketed at or nearby Los Angeles International Airport. John has been a ride share driver for Uber for four years with over 10,000 trips. When he began driving for the company, his rate was about $1.20 per mile. A couple of months ago it was already too low at 80 cents a mile when Uber reduced our rate to 60 cents per mile. To give you an idea, the IRS standard mileage rate is 58 cents per mile and our pay is only two cents more. We are employees, they tell us what to do, they play psychological games with these apps, they tell us how much we are going to get paid, and yet they still call us independent contractors. We need the politicians to start looking out for working people, John said. John When reporters pointed out how the Democrats as well as the Republicans represent corporate America, John agreed and pointed out how Maya Harris, the sister and campaign manager of California senator and presidential candidate Kamala Harris, is married to attorney Tony West who serves as Ubers general counsel and as its chief legal officer. Jason is a part-time driver. Uber cut out our pay per minute by 25 percent, and we have to pay for our own gas, insurance, car repair fees. They pay you a wage where it feels like youre losing money. We need to fight capitalism and change the whole system. When asked about workers fighting internationally, he said, As owners of capital always do, theyre playing us against each other. People fight for a living wage and even $25 per hour isnt enough to live on in LA. When asked what was the biggest barrier to uniting workers, Jason said, Domination of education by the capitalists, lack of education through the media. We are sold a bill of goods, were told that we are not good enough and that we should stop complaining and just work harder. Jason Reynaldo was also on strike in LA and works for Uber, Uber Eats and Lyft. We are fighting for respect, dignity and benefits for the drivers. We are exposed to accidents, sometimes strange people in our cars, we have to put miles in our car and pay for gas. I work 912 hours a day and work the whole week. The rich make billions off of us and they (Uber) are using their profits to make robots to replace us. They should be spending the billions that they have to feed the homeless, take care of our communities. I would call these people the modern slavers. When asked about his thoughts on the Los Angeles teachers strike last January, Reynaldo said, I used to work for LAUSD (the Los Angeles school district). I made very little and the district gave the schools nothing while putting the money into their own pockets. The capitalists exploit people. We need to create an equal society where people have jobs and are able to have a living wage. Talks between US and Chinese trade representatives, which start in Washington today and will extend into Friday, appear to be the last chance to avert a full-scale trade war between the worlds number one and number two economies. Earlier this week, the US said it will escalate tariffs on hundreds of billions of dollars worth of Chinese goods. China has indicated it will retaliate if the threat is carried out. On Sunday Trump tweeted that the US would lift tariffs on $200 billion worth of Chinese products from 10 percent to 25 percent on Friday and that a 25 percent tariff on $325 billion worth would be imposed shortly. As a result, it appeared unlikely that the talks would go ahead. However, Chinese Vice Premier Liu He, the countrys chief negotiator, decided yesterday to come to Washington to meet with his counterparts US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin. The character of the negotiations has undergone a qualitative change. They had been intended to wrap up the months-long negotiations and come to a final deal, which would then be presented to US President Trump and his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping for signing. That perspective has been cast to the winds. It is extremely doubtful if anything like it can be put together again, given the US actions and demands. The US has claimed that China backtracked on previous agreements to write its concessions into Chinese law but then retreated, saying the measures would be carried out by regulations that carry less weight. According to reports in the Wall Street Journal, the US is demanding China submit an inventory of laws and regulations that it would enact to guarantee that it was complying with any agreement. In other words, the US would effectively dictate economic policy to the Chinese government. Beijing appears to have rejected this demand, regarding it as an infringement on its national sovereignty. The Chinese decision to attend the talks is based on the hope that negotiations will be able to continue in some form and so prevent, or at least delay, a rapid escalation of the trade conflict. Even that limited prospect is under a cloud given that the position of both sides is hardening. Yesterday Trump posted a further inflammatory tweet: The reason for the China pullback and attempted renegotiation of the trade deal is the HOPE that they will be able to negotiate with Joe Biden or one of the very weak Democrats, and thereby continue to ripoff the United States ($500 billion a year) for years to come. Trump was referring to remarks by former Vice President Biden earlier this week suggesting that it was implausible that China would eat our lunch and that China was not competition for us. Uncertainty over the talks caused share prices to plunge on Monday with the Dow down more than 450 points. It fell a further 200 points on Tuesday, but recovered after Trump offered some prospect of a trade deal, and finished flat. In an effort to calm the stock market, Trump said: China has informed us that they are coming to the US to make a deal Well see but I am very happy with over $100 billion in Tariffs filling US coffers great for US, not good for China. In fact, the revenues from tariffs, which so far have totalled about $34 billion, are not paid by Chinese exporters but by US importers. While Trump stepped up the war of words against China, the office of US Trade Representative yesterday filed the necessary papers for the tariff hike scheduled tomorrow. It stated that in recent negotiations China has chosen to retreat from specific agreements agreed to in earlier rounds. China has responded to the latest US threats by saying it will retaliate if the US goes ahead. The escalation of trade friction is not in the interests of the people of the two countries and the people of the world, a Chinese Commerce Ministry spokesman said. The Chinese side deeply regrets the action. If the US tariff measures are implemented, China will have to take necessary countermeasures. Trumps press secretary Sarah Sanders said that the US had indications that China wanted to make a deal and that our teams are in continued negotiations. However, that prospect looks increasingly unlikely. One of the main sticking points has been the US insistence that existing tariffs on Chinese goods would not be lifted immediately after an agreement was signed but would be reduced progressively as the US deemed China was complying. This was to ensure that there was an enforcement mechanism. The US also maintained that it should retain the right to impose additional tariffs without a retaliation by China. These demands had already been rejected by Chinese negotiators who have insisted any enforcement mechanism should operate both ways. But now it is confronted with the threat of new tariffs coupled with the insistence by Washington that it be allowed to rewrite Chinese law according to a list that it has drawn up. Both sides are under considerable domestic pressure. Trump wants to secure some kind of agreement fearing that failure to do so will see sharp falls on the stock market. He is also concerned that trade war escalation will severely impact several US states that form a considerable portion of his electoral base. These states have already been hard hit by Chinese retaliation to existing US tariffs directed against American agricultural products. Some rural areas are reporting the worst situation since the farm crisis of the 1980s. At same time Trump is fearful that if he too readily comes to an agreement he will be attacked by sections of both the Republican party and the Democrats for making a weak deal. These layers maintain that trade as such is not the central issue. The US must secure the imposition of so-called structural reforms that suppress Chinas industrial and technological development, which is regarded as an existential threat to the economic, and ultimately military, dominance of the US. On the Chinese side, Vice Premier Liu He may be willing to undertake the reforms demanded by the US and pull back somewhat on subsides to state-owned industries, to which the US objects on the grounds they are market distorting. But he is also under pressure. Powerful sections of the ruling regime will not agree to conditions that recall the imposition of the unequal treaties that formed a key component of the imperialist domination of China in the 19th century and the early part of the 20th. The immediate issue is the threat of additional tariffs set to come into force on Friday. If Trump withdraws them at the last minute, then he is certain to come under attack for bluffing and having his bluff called. However, if they are imposed and China retaliates, the trade war will undergo a major escalation. The New York Times has furnished a case study of the way in which it functions as the conduit for the utterly hypocritical human rights campaigns fashioned by the CIA and the State Department to prosecute the predatory interests of US imperialism. While turning a blind eye to the gross abuses of democratic rights by allies such as Saudi Arabia, the US has brazenly used human rights for decades as the pretext for wars, diplomatic intrigues and regime-change. The media is completely integrated into these operations. Another human rights campaign is now underway. The New York Times is part of the mounting chorus of condemnation of China over its treatment of the Turkic-speaking, Muslim Uyghur minority in the western Chinese province of Xinjiang. In an article on May 4 entitled In push for trade deal, Trump administration shelves sanctions over Chinas crackdown on Uyghurs, the New York Times joined in criticism of the White House, particularly by the Democrats, for failing to impose punitive measures on Beijing. The strident denunciations of China involve unsubstantiated allegations that it is detaining millions of Uyghurs without charge or trial in what Beijing terms vocational training camps. The New York Times reported, without qualification, the lurid claims of US officials, such as Assistant Secretary of Defence Randall Schriver, who last Friday condemned the mass imprisonment of Chinese Muslims in concentration camps and boosted the commonly cited figure of up to a million to up to three million in detention. No evidence has been presented for either claim. The repression of the Uyghurs is completely bound up with the far broader oppression of the working class by the Chinese capitalist elites and the Chinese Communist Party regime that defends their interests. The US campaign on the Uyghurs, however, has nothing to do with securing the democratic rights of workers, but is aimed at stirring up reactionary separatist sentiment. The US has longstanding ties to right-wing separatist organisations based on Chinese minoritiesTibetans as well as the Uyghursthat it helped create, fund and in some cases arm. As the US, first under President Obama and now Trump, has escalated its diplomatic, economic and military confrontation with China, the human rights of Uyghurs has been increasingly brought to the fore. Washingtons aim, at the very least, is to foment separatist opposition in Xinjiang, which is a crucial source of Chinese energy and raw materials as well as being pivotal to its key Belt and Road Initiative to integrate China more closely with Eurasia. Such unrest would not only weaken China but could lead to a bloody war and the fracturing of the country. Uyghur separatists, who trained in the US network of Islamist terrorist groups in Syria, openly told Radio Free Asia last year of their intention to return to China to wage an armed insurgency. The New York Times is completely in tune with the aims behind these intriguesa fact that is confirmed by its promotion of Uyghur activist Rushan Abbas. Last weekends article highlighted Abbas as the organiser of a tiny demonstration in Washington to pressure Treasury Department officials to take action against Chinese officials involved in the Xinjiang abuses. She told the newspaper that the Uyghur issue should be included as part of the current US-China trade talks, and declared: They are facing indoctrination, brainwashing and the elimination of their values as Muslims. An article Uyghur Americans speak against Chinas internment camps on October 18 last year cited her remarks at the right-wing think tank, the Hudson Institute, where she spoke out about the detention of her aunt and sister. As reported in the article: I hope the Chinese ambassador here reads this, she said, wiping away tears. I will not stop. I will be everywhere and speak on this at every event from now on. Presented with a tearful woman speaking about her family members, very few readers would have the slightest inkling of Abbass background, about which the New York Times quite deliberately says nothing. Abbas is a highly connected political operator with long standing ties to the Pentagon, the State Department and US intelligence agencies at the highest level as well as top Republican Party politicians. She is a key figure in the Uyghur organisations that the US has supported and funded. Currently, Abbas is Director of Business Development in ISI Consultants, which offers to assist US companies to grow their businesses in Middle East and African markets. Her credentials, according to the company website, include over 15 years of experience in global business development, strategic business analysis, business consultancy and government affairs throughout the Middle East, Africa, CIS regions, Europe, Asia, Australia, North America and Latin America. The website also notes: She also has extensive experience working with US government agencies, including Homeland Security, Department of Defense, Department of State, Department of Justice, and various US intelligence agencies. As an active campaigner for human rights, she works closely with members of the US Senate, Congressional Committees, the Congressional Human Rights Caucus, the US Department of State and several other US government departments and agencies. This brief summary makes clear that Abbas is well connected in the highest levels of the state apparatus and in political circles. It also underscores the very close ties between the Uyghur organisations, in which she and her family members are prominent, and the US intelligence and security agencies. A more extensive article and interview with Abbas appeared in the May 2019 edition of the magazine Bitter Winter, which is published by the Italian-based Center for Studies on New Religions. The magazine focuses on religious liberty and human rights in China and is part of a conservative, right-wing network in Europe and the United States. The journalist who interviewed Abbas, Marco Respinti, is a senior fellow at the Russell Kirk Centre for Cultural Renewal, and a board member of the Centre for European Renewalboth conservative think tanks. The article explains that Abbas was a student activist at Xinjiang University during the 1989 protests by students and workers against the oppressive Beijing regime, but left China prior to the brutal June 4 military crackdown that killed thousands in the capital and throughout the country. At the university, she collaborated with Dolkun Isa and has worked closely with him ever since. Dolkun Isa is currently president of the World Uyghur Congress, established in 2004 as an umbrella group for a plethora of Uyghur organisations. It receives funding from the National Endowment for Democracywhich is one of the fronts used by the CIA and the US State Department for fomenting opposition to Washingtons rivals, including so-called colour revolutions, around the world. Isa was the subject of an Interpol red notice after China accused him of having connections to the armed separatist group, the East Turkestan Liberation Organisation, a claim he denied. East Turkestan is the name given to Xinjiang by Uyghur separatists to denote its historic connections to Turkey. None of the Western countries in which he traveled moved to detain him and the red notice was subsequently removed, no doubt under pressure from Washington. Bitter Winter explained that after moving to the US, Abbas cofounded the first Uyghur organisation in the United States in 1993the California-based Tengritagh Overseas Students and Scholars Association. She also played a key role in the formation of the Uyghur American Association in 1998, which receives funding from the National Endowment for Democracy (NED). Last year its Uyghur Human Rights Project was awarded two NED grants totaling $320,000. Her brother Rishat Abbas was the associations first vice-chairman and is currently the honorary chairman of the Uyghur Academy based in Turkey. When the US Congress funded a Uyghur language service for the Washington-based Radio Free Asia, Abbas became its first reporter and news anchor, broadcasting daily to China. Radio Free Asia, like its counterpart Radio Free Europe, began its existence in the 1950s as a CIA conduit for anti-communist propaganda. It was later transferred to the US Information Agency, then the US State Department and before being incorporated as an independent, government-funded body. Its essential purpose as a vehicle for US disinformation and lies has not changed, however. In a particularly revealing passage, Bitter Winter explained: From 20022003, Ms. Abbas supported Operation Enduring Freedom as a language specialist at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. In the course of the interview with the magazine, Abbas attempted to explain away her involvement with the notorious prison camp by saying that she was simply acting on behalf of 22 Uyghurs who were wrongfully detained and ultimately releasedafter being imprisoned for between four to 11 years! Given the denunciations of Chinese detention camps, one might expect that Abbas would have something critical to say about Guantanamo Bay, where inmates are held indefinitely without charge or trial and in many cases tortured. However, she makes no criticism of the prison or its procedures, nor for that matter of Operation Enduring Freedomthe illegal US-led invasion and occupation of Iraq that resulted in the deaths of a million civilians. It is clear why. Abbas is plugged into to the very top levels of the US state apparatus and political establishment in Washington. Her stints with Radio Free Asia and at Guantanamo Bay are undoubtedly not the only times that she has been directly on the payroll. As Bitter Winter continued: She has frequently briefed members of the US Congress and officials at the State Department on the human rights situation of the Uyghur people, and their history and culture, and arranged testimonies before Congressional committees and Human Rights Commissions. She provided her expertise to other federal and military agencies as well, and in 2007 she assisted during a meeting between then-President George W. Bush and Rebiya Kadeer, the world-famous moral leader of the Uyghurs, in Prague. Later that year she also briefed then First Lady Laura Bush in the White House on the Human Rights situation in Xinjiang. It should be noted, Rebiya Kadeer is the the world-famous moral leader of the Uyghurs, only in the eyes of the CIA and the US State Department who have assiduously promoted her, and of the US-funded Uyghur organisations. She was one of the wealthiest businesswomen in China who attended the National Peoples Congress before her husband left for the US and began broadcasting for Radio Free Asia and Voice of America. She subsequently fled China to the US and has served as president both of the World Uyghur Congress and the American Uyghur Association. The fact that Russan Abbas is repeatedly being featured in the New York Times is an indication that she is also being groomed to play a leading role in the mounting US propaganda offensive against China over the persecution of the Uyghurs. It is also a telling indictment of the New York Times which opens its pages to her without informing its readers of her background. Like Abbas, the paper of record is also plugged into the state apparatus and its intelligence agencies. Student falls from Buffalo Bill Dam Student falls from Buffalo Bill Dam CODY (WNE) A 13-year-old Cody Middle School student fell to his death in an apparent suicide, according to the Park County Sheriffs Office. Deputies are still investigating the incident. According to an office spokesman, the male victim was visiting the Buffalo Bill Dam Visitors Center with his family when he climbed up onto the railing on the east side of the dam and leaped some 350 feet into the Shoshone River. The initial call came into the sheriffs dispatch at 4:26 p.m. Deputies responded immediately as did an ambulance from Cody Regional Health. The victims body was eventually found by members of the Park County Search and Rescue Swift Water Team at the base of the dam in approximately 8 feet of water. The body was removed at 7 p.m. and turned over to Park County Coroner Tim Power. Cody School District Superintendent Ray Schulte said the district has several counselors to assist students during challenging times. Woman dies in rollover crash LARAMIE (WNE) The Wyoming Highway Patrol responded to a fatal car crash early Sunday morning east of Laramie. Around 2:30 a.m., the Highway Patrol was dispatched to milepost 30 on Wyoming Highway 210 for a one-vehicle rollover. The driver, 20-year-old Seraphina Jimenez, was not wearing her seatbelt properly and died at the scene of the crash from the injuries she sustained, according to a news release. The Cheyenne resident was driving a 2009 Toyota Corolla eastbound on Wyoming 210 when the vehicle drifted to the right side of the road. Jimenez then overcorrected the Corolla back to the left before driving off the left shoulder and overturning, the release said. Driver inattention and cellphone use are being investigated as potential contributing factors for the fatal crash. The Wyoming Highway Patrol reported this as the 54th fatality on Wyomings roadways so far this year, compared to just 27 by this time last year. Four charged in home invasion, assault RIVERTON (WNE) Four individuals are facing District Court charges of conspiracy to commit unlawful entry into an occupied structure, after accusations that they broke into a residence on East Monroe in Riverton and beat three of its occupants on March 19. Troy Thomas Fasthorse, Kym Aldos Fasthorse, Guy Fabian Soundingsides, and Samuel Francis White-plume had their conjoined case bound over to the higher court. Each could face up to 10 years in prison if convicted. The court affidavit states that at 3 a.m. Tuesday, March 19, a Fremont County Sheriff's deputy was dispatched to the Riverton residence to respond to a report of unlawful entry. When the deputy arrived, the four subjects had fled. The former made contact with one of the occupants of the house, who said that he had been sleeping on a couch in the living room when Thomas Fasthorse entered and began hitting him in the head and face. The alleged victim said Thomas and Kym Fasthorse, Soundingsides and Whiteplume then went down the hallway to where a second occupant had been sleeping. When interviewed, the second occupant said that when he heard the front door being kicked open, he started to get up but heard people running down the hall to his room, after which he was confronted by the four attackers. The victim said they began assaulting him by hitting him with their fists while he was still in bed, then struck him in the head with a glass bottle, a can of skimmed milk, an 18-inch-long board, and possibly a rock. Two die in separate crashes near Jackson JACKSON (WNE) Sunday brought two fatalities on Highway 26, with deaths in separate crashes near Alpine and on Togwotee Pass. Avery Rogers, a 34-year-old Jackson man, was driving westbound on Togwotee Pass around 2 p.m. at a high rate of speed, Wyoming Highway Patrol Lt. Matt Brackin said. After losing control turning a corner near mile marker 12.5, Rogers overcorrected and rolled into trees on the north side of the highway. He was wearing a seatbelt, Brackin said, but died at the scene. Patrol officials are investigating speed and alcohol as potential causes of the crash. There were no witnesses, but other drivers said they had seen Rogers driving fast past them. Around 6:30 p.m. Sunday, a pack of motorcyclists was headed north from Alpine along Palisades Reservoir. About a mile out of town, as the pack slowed for a vehicle turning right, a 44-year-old Idaho Falls woman named Melinda Gregston hit her brakes too hard, Brackin said. Her rear brakes locked, and she tipped over and slid, sustaining fatal internal injuries. She died at the scene. Brackin said she was wearing a helmet and that investigators do not suspect alcohol played any role in the crash. Gregston did not collide with anyone else. Another motorcyclist fell and slid behind her but suffered no significant injuries. WORLAND Wednesday, May 1, eighth-grade Worland Middle School students set out into the community to learn more about choices that could impact the rest of their lives. Worland eighth-grader Sophia Scheuerman looks into a casket with a mirror inside to highlight the consequences of bad choices at Bryant Funeral home in Worland during the Choices That Matter program on May 1, 2019. WORLAND Wednesday, May 1, eighth-grade Worland Middle School students set out into the community to learn more about choices that could impact the rest of their lives. Previously referred to as "Life R U Ready," Worland Middle School started the program "Choices That Matter" in order to allow students to receive more hands-on experience about the consequences of their choices. Life R U Ready was a life-simulation health fair to increase awareness with teenagers on consequences of behavior and to open new opportunities for parent-teen communication. Previously, representatives from Wyoming Highway Patrol, Worland Fire Department, Cloud Peak Counseling and the Bureau of Land Management led students through presentations on leadership roles, family planning and drug and alcohol awareness. Through real-life scenarios such as fake house parties, driving courses with vision-impairing goggles and simulated crash vehicles worked to decrease teen's motivation to participate in risk-taking behavior and provide new opportunities. Starting last year, eighth-grade students were assigned to different off-campus locations to focus on different topics including respect and responsibility, consequences, rehabilitation, awareness and healthy lifestyles. Other topics included relationships, trust and emotional health. This year, Choices That Matter required students to do a presentation on one of the off-campus stations and what they learned there. Students of family and consumer science teacher Amber Bennett participated in these presentations. In one presentation, two students spoke about attending the county jail. With their experience, here toured the jail and learned about different topics, including responsibility and consequences. One student commented "you always hear that jail isn't all that bad, but it actually sucks!" Another presentation focused on a trip to Washakie County Public Health. With going to this location, students learned more about consent and healthy relationships while also discussing serious topics such as sexually transmitted diseases (STD) and testing. At this location, students watched a popular video on what consent means, mostly referred to as "Tea and Consent." In this video, tea is used as a metaphor for sex. A scenario used in the video is when asking someone if they want a cup of tea and they're not sure. "You can make them a cup of tea," the video states. "But be aware they might not drink it. And if they don't drink it and this is the important part don't make them drink it." Life R U Ready originated in the Arizona school system under its original alias "Sex R U Ready" before it was adopted by Wyoming schools in 2006 and had the name change in order to initiate more diversity. The program had its first year in Worland 10 years ago in 2009 at the Worland Community Center Complex. Modeled after Campbell County's Life R U Ready, scenes had included fake parties and a bonfire. Drugs, cigarettes and alcohol were introduced at each of these scenes. Choices students made during the scene resulted in separate consequences that dealt with social, family, legal, law enforcement and medical. PROGRAM CHANGES Worland Middle School counselor Danielle Warren was part of this year's transition from Life R U Ready to Choices That Matter. According to Warren, the program has been morphing over the course of the past few years. It was only this year they made the name change. "We weren't following the motto [of Life R U Ready]," Warren explained. The biggest change the program has gone through is being more involved with the community. Unlike previous years of Life R U Ready being stationed at the Worland Community Center Complex, eighth-grade students now go out into the community. Warren explained that this way, she felt the kids would be getting more out of the program. Those who participated in the program this year, to teach students more about the choices in their life that matter, were Cloud Peak Counseling, the Wyoming Boys School, Washakie County Public Health, Washakie County Detention Center, the Washakie County courthouse, Chopper CrossFit, Adventure PE, Byrant Funeral Home and additional help from Worland firefighters, Wyoming Highway Patrol and the Wyoming Army National Guard. Each of these experiences helps provide students with more knowledge about what's coming later in life. As the students prepare to enter high school, this knowledge and these experiences are hoped to come into play. "I feel like the students got a lot out of it," Warren said. "I think the main thing we wanted them to learn was that their choices even made in a split second have a huge difference and have an impact on their life...they stop and think about 'how is this going to affect my future' and 'What's important in my life?' So I feel like the kids took away what we wanted them to take away, that the choices that they make will affect and matter to their future selves and to everyone around them not just themselves but to their parents, their friends, their family, even sometimes people they don't know or haven't met yet." "I'll talk to students in high school who did the program and they're always like 'hey! I remember that! I did this, or I did that..!'" Warren said. "We don't always hear stories or know what impact this has. That's just the nature of working with people you don't always get to see the fruits of your labors. We don't always get the luxury of knowing what impact it has." "I think of celebrities who receive fan mail from people who got through something or a hard situation because of that one person," she said. "I think our community members don't always realize the impact they're having as they volunteer and help. You don't know how it's going to affect that one student, that one person to change the course of their life. If it only reaches one student, it's totally worth it." WORLAND Last week the Bureau of Land Management Worland Field Office released the Final Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the Alkali Creek Reservoir Project near Hyattville. WORLAND Last week the Bureau of Land Management Worland Field Office released the Final Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the Alkali Creek Reservoir Project near Hyattville. The proposed project, from the Wyoming Water Development Office (WWDO), supports the BLM's commitment to modernizing infrastructure and is consistent with Wyoming's 2015 Water Strategy. According to the EIS, "After eight years of conducting studies and scoping, the WWDO determined locations in Wyoming that need reservoirs. The WWDO is proposing to develop a water storage reservoir on Alkali Creek to reduce late-season irrigation shortages. Initial hydrologic modeling and investigation results for the Paint Rock Creek watershed and the lower Nowood River simulated annual irrigation shortages of 9,842 acre-feet during normal hydrologic years (these shortages assumed current idle permitted acreage was put into production). "Subsequent refinement of the hydrologic model simulates annual irrigation shortages of 2,360 acre-feet and 6,030 acre-feet on average under current conditions and for currently idle permitted acreage, respectively. For these shortages or need evaluations, a historic consumptive use analysis and a surface water allocation model representation of the Nowood River watershed were developed. Currently irrigated lands were determined from aerial photography, and currently idle but permitted lands were determined from Wyoming State Engineer's Office records and subsequent analysis with the hydrographer-commissioners involved in the day-to-day regulation of water in the watershed." According to the EIS, an irrigation shortage is the difference between irrigation demand and irrigation supply. The irrigation demand is the required amount of water that a crop needs beyond what it receives from precipitation. This value is calculated and is a function of a variety of parameters including climate conditions, crop types and acreages, and soil parameters. The irrigation supply is the amount of water delivered to the crop and is simulated based on stream flow records, ditch capacities, system efficiencies, return flows, reservoir capacities and evaporation, and water rights. The proposed Alkali Creek Reservoir is approximately 3 miles northwest of Hyattville, in Big Horn County. Alkali Creek is an intermittent creek that flows into Paint Rock Creek, which is a tributary of the Nowood River, all of which are in the Nowood River watershed. The proposed construction would create a reservoir on Alkali Creek. The reservoir would have a capacity of 7,994 acre-feet at normal high-water level (NHWL) or 2.6 billion gallons of water. The reservoir area would inundate approximately 294 acres of land when it is at normal high-water level. Four roads would need to be built as part of the Proposed Action. The roads would comprise two temporary roads for construction and two permanent access roads. The proposed construction of a dam and reservoir on Alkali Creek would overlap both private and BLM-administered lands. The reservoir is intended to provide late-season irrigation water for portions of the Nowood River watershed. The reservoir is also intended to provide recreation opportunities through a minimum pool, provide flood attenuation, improve downstream water quality, and provide both direct and indirect economic benefits to the local community and state. During the study for the EIS, three main alternatives were considered with the proposed alternative being the construction of a new reservoir. This would include a reserve pool for a fisheries and recreation activities. Additional features of the proposed alternative would include the construction of a parking area and boat ramp and the expansion of the existing Anita Ditch and Anita Supplemental Ditch. IMPACTS According to the EIS for the proposed action, the primary existing land use in the analysis area and surrounding region is agriculture, including irrigated crops and livestock grazing. Recreation, consisting of hunting, fishing, hiking, off-road vehicle use, and camping, is also prevalent in and near the analysis area. The analysis area comprises 362.4 acres of BLM-administered land and 444.4 acres of private land. There is 454 acres of federal oil and gas minerals in the analysis area (but no active oil and gas leases) and 230.5 acres of mining claims. There are no energy corridors, BLM pipeline rights-of-way (ROWs), BLM power and transmission ROWs, or any other BLM ROWs in the analysis area. ROWs are present on private lands. WYDOT holds an easement along Wyoming Highway 31 that would be avoided by the proposed temporary bypass pipeline. Big Horn County currently does not have county-wide zoning regulations, but does require permits for construction and development. According to the EIS, regarding environmental effects it was found that "construction activities and associated traffic under the Proposed Action would increase emissions in the analysis area from vehicle exhaust and fugitive dust. These minor increases would be localized and temporary during construction and limited to surrounding counties of Washakie, Sheridan, and Johnson." Regarding land use, "Under the Proposed Action, surface disturbance from the project would affect or prevent certain land uses in the analysis area. Approximately 91.9 acres of existing oil and gas leases and 230.5 acres of existing mining claims would be affected by the proposed surface disturbance. Surface disturbance from the project would prevent potential future mineral leases or rights-of-way on the 362.4 acres of BLM-administered land in the analysis area. Surface disturbance from the project would prevent potential future mining and other land uses on the 444.4 acres of private land in the analysis area." NEXT STEP The proposed Alkali Creek Reservoir requires approvals from the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Worland Field Office (WFO), the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), and the Wyoming Department of Transportation (WYDOT). The BLM Worland Field Office has prepared this environmental impact statement (EIS) pursuant to NEPA (National Environmental Policy Act) to analyze the potential direct, indirect, and cumulative effects of potentially granting a ROW, a CWA Section 404 permit, and a highway encroachment permit for the construction and operation of the proposed Alkali Creek Reservoir and the construction of associated roads and other structures. The BLM's and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' decision will be communicated through publication of a single record of decision. The final EIS and other project information is available at: https://go.usa.gov/xUsam. Scams that involve phone calls are nothing new, it remains one of the top ways that scammers target consumers. But a new scam involves a phone call that just triggers one ring on your phone. Consumers all over the country are reporting the scam. Luckily by following a few simple tips, you can avoid getting caught up by this fraud. The scam starts by you receiving a call that hangs up after one ring. You may receive a series of calls from the same number, which may be from your area code. If you call the number back, you are asked to accept charges to connect the call. You may then be put on hold for a long period of time or passed to different operators. Eventually you hang up. When you receive your phone bill or it is autopaid, you'll have incurred extra charges. The calls you are receiving are robocalls which make it very easy for scammers to target lots of numbers with repeated calls. When you call back, you are often calling a spoofed number that will route you to an international line. Those charges can be $10 or more per minute plus potentially other fees and charges the scammers try to cram on your bill. Phone companies generally do not dispute these charges, they simply pass them on to you. And if your bill is on autopay, you might not notice the charges. To protect yourself from this type of scam, BBB recommends you do the following: Don't call back a number that you don't recognize who hangs up without leaving a voicemail. Review your phone bill every month. If it is on autopay, set yourself a reminder to check your bill before it is paid so you can dispute any suspicious charges. If you do not need to make international calls, considering contacting your phone service provider and asking them to block international calls on your line. This type of scam might not include some of the eye-popping losses of other scams, but it can cause someone to lose hundreds of dollars if they stay on an international line for too long. Be sure to use caution when answering or returning calls from unfamiliar numbers. With robocalling technology being cheap and easy to set up, expect this scam to have a wide reach over the next few months. ABOUT BBB: For more than 100 years, the Better Business Bureau has been helping people find businesses, brands and charities they can trust. In 2018, people turned to BBB more than 172 million times for BBB Business Profiles on nearly 5.4 million businesses and Charity Reports on 11,000 charities, all available for free at bbb.org. There are local, independent BBBs across the United States, Canada and Mexico, including BBB Serving Northern Colorado and Wyoming, which was founded in 1983 and serves 38 counties in Colorado and Wyoming. Pianist Rudolf Buchbinder. Courtesy of VINCERO Beloved Dog Walker Killed, Along With 5 Dogs, When Parolee Allegedly Fleeing Police Slams Into Car Dog Walker and 5 Dogs Killed After Parolee Crashes Into Her SUV A beloved California mom and dog walker was killed Tuesday when a man leading police in a high-speed car chase barreled into her car, killing her and five of the six dogs she was bringing to a local park. On Tuesday, just after 11:30 a.m., Jessica Bingaman, 41, of Long Beach, was driving northbound on Temple Ave. in her 2013 Ford Escape with six dogs inside when her small SUV was allegedly struck by a stolen van driven by Javier Olivarez, 43, of Los Angeles, the Long Beach Police Department says in a news release. Wreckage from the crash that killed Jessica Bingaman. A single mother, Bingaman leaves behind a 10-year-old daughter. Bingamans mother, Donna Lawson, who lives in Pennsylvania, jumped on a plane as soon as she learned of her daughters death. She told local station KCAL 9 she hasnt slept since she learned her daughter died. When I would close my eyes, I would see my daughters face as the van is hitting her, and [wonder] what is going through her mind, she told the outlet. On Tuesday morning, just minutes before the fatal crash, Long Beach police spotted the allegedly stolen 2016 Nissan van near the intersection of Broadway and Alamitos Avenue. They tried to conduct a traffic stop, but Olivarez took off, sparking a short pursuit. Police chased him a few blocks as he raced at high speeds through the largely residential area. 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. Bingaman had just stopped at a stop sign on 3rd St. and was proceeding along Temple when Olivarez allegedly came racing eastbound on 3rd St. failing to stop for the stop sign there, the release says. He crashed into Bingamans Escape, crushing it before careening into three parked cars. After using the Jaws of Life to remove Bingaman from the twisted piece of metal, the Long Beach Fire Department rushed her to a local hospital where she was pronounced dead due to major traumatic injuries she sustained during the crash. Story continues Olivarez was taken to a local hospital for minor injuries. His condition is unknown. Four of the dogs in Bingamans car died at the scene. The two surviving dogs were transported to a local pet hospital, where one of them died from its injuries. RELATED: Young Texas Mom Killed in Crash, Allegedly By Teen Whod Had 12 Drinks at Bar The surviving dog has been released from the vet to its owners. Olivarez was booked on charges including evading a police officer, felony DUI, vehicular manslaughter and grand theft auto, the release says. He is a known gang member and parolee, say authorities, KTLA reports. RELATED: Inside Case of Family of 8 Whose Car Was Found at Bottom of Cliff Last Year He had an outstanding no bail warrant for a post-release community supervision violation involving a robbery. He is being held at the Long Beach City Jail with no bail. It is unclear whether he has retained an attorney who can speak on his behalf. He hasnt yet entered a plea. Lawson is angry that Olivarez allegedly killed her daughter. He chose to steal a car, she said, KTLA reports. He chose to lead a life in a gang. He chose to do drugs and robberies. My daughter did not choose to die yesterday morning. My daughter was working, trying to make a living, trying to raise her daughter. A GoFundMe page has been set up to raise money for funeral arrangements, as well as a college fund for the victims daughter and a pet rescue fund in Bingamans name. Bingaman, the page says, left her mark wherever she went. In the shape of a paw. She had such a big heart when it came to the animals she cared for. She had an even bigger heart for those who were in need or needed help. Mathew Talbot died while on counter poaching operations in Malawi (PA) Tributes have poured in for a British soldier who was killed by an elephant that trampled him to death during counter-poaching operations in Malawi. It is understood that Mathew Talbot, of the 1st Battalion Coldstream Guards, was on patrol in Liwonde National Park on May 5 when he was trampled to death by the animal he was trying to protect. The group reportedly backed off after spotting an elephant - but a second is said to have crept up behind then before charging and trampling Guardsman Talbot under its feet. The soldier was reportedly on patrol when he was killed by an elephant (PA) An elephant in Liwonde National Park, Malawi, where Mathew was on patrol (PA) He died of his wounds shortly after the incident. His commanding officer, Lieutenant Colonel Ed Launders, described the 22-year-old as a "determined and big-hearted" man, who devoted his life to serving his country. "It was typical of his character to volunteer for an important and challenging role in Malawi," Lt Col Launders added. Read more from Yahoo News UK: Missing piece of Stonehenge returned Theresa May faces yet another leadership threat Second woman found dead in freezer in east London identified "He was hugely proud of his work as a counter-poaching operator, and tragically died doing great good. "Mathew was loved by his brothers in arms in the Coldstream Guards. We will sorely miss his humour, selflessness and unbeatable spirit. "My deepest condolences go to his parents, family and loved ones. My thoughts and prayers are with them at this desperately sad time. Mathew was a member of the 1st Battalion Coldstream Guards (PA) The Duke of Cambridge will write to the family of Guardsman Talbot, to offer his condolences and urge the importance of the anti-poaching work that was being carried out, Kensington Palace said. With more than 30 British troops currently based in Malawi, where they are working to combat poaching, the MoD said this was Guardsman Talbot's first operational deployment. The MoD said he was an "exceptionally kind and friendly individual" who would often befriend locals and learn their language. The location of the 22-year-old's death (PA) His company commander, Major Richard Wright, said: "Guardsman Talbot bravely lost his life whilst ensuring that endangered species will be around for future generations to learn from and enjoy. Story continues Maj Wright said the loss of Guardsman Talbot would be felt throughout the battalion, adding that he leaves behind his father Steven, mother Michelle, sisters Aimee and Isabel, and girlfriend Olivia. Those that worked with him and were closest to Guardsman Talbot have described him as a "proud Brummie", who was hard-working and always "laughing and cracking jokes. Lieutenant Colonel Ed Launders described the 22-year-old as a "determined and big-hearted" man (PA) Defence Secretary Penny Mordaunt said Guardsman Talbot served with "great courage and professionalism", and was carrying out "vital" anti-poaching work. "This tragic incident is a reminder of the danger our military faces as they protect some of the world's most endangered species from those who seek to profit from the criminal slaughter of wildlife," she added. Defence minister Tobias Ellwood said the "untimely death" showed that soldiers face dangers in many aspects of the job they do. He told Forces News: "It shows you that this may not have been a battlefield but it shows you that there's dangers inherent right across what our armed forces do. It's truly sad to learn of his untimely death and our thoughts and prayers are very much with his friends and family at this moment. British Army troops and Malawian Park Rangers looking at elephant bones in Liwonde National Park (PA) He said: "He was doing an important job and I know that's something that he loved as well. Operation Corded, the name given to the Army's counter-poaching deployment in Malawi, assists in the training of rangers in a bid to help them crack down on the illegal wildlife trade. Park rangers are taught skills such as tracking, partnered patrolling, communications, surveillance, and intelligence-sharing - with the first deployment taking place in August 2017. Its the day before his 58th birthday when George Clooney phones me from a car as he heads away from a production meeting sitting with 40 people asking you for things. As usual, hes juggling: Its what this admitted workaholic loves. Free from any financial concerns (he and partner Rande Gerber sold their tequila company Casamigos for $1 billion in 2017), Clooney can do whatever he wants. Lay $1 million in $20 bills on each of his 14 closest friends. Hang with Amal and his twins in Italy. Shoot a dozen Nespresso commercials and funnel cash to various charities. Ramp up movies for Smokehouses new two-year first-look deal at MGM. Finish an eight-part Netflix series on Watergate. Launch his next directing gig, the long-awaited John DeLorean biopic. He may or may not take on the title role. Thats his call. Hes in charge. Related stories 'True Detective': Directing Helped Nic Pizzolatto Stop Micromanaging and See the Bigger Picture 'Catch-22' Review: George Clooney Delivers an Absurd, Frustrating Satire for Absurd, Frustrating Times Read More: George Clooney AFI Tribute: Cate Blanchett, Laura Dern, and More Celebrate (and Tease) the Prankster Actor And thats what returning to television 25 years after ER gives him. On May 17 on Hulu, Clooney debuts Catch-22. The network was willing to back a big-budget six-part limited series adapted from Joseph Hellers satiric 1961 World War II classic, along with producers Anonymous Content and Paramount Television, which held the rights to the novel thanks to the 1970 Mike Nichols comedy. Catch-22 could prove to be serious Emmy bait for the popular Hollywood writer-producer-director-star. So far, reaction is good. Thats partly because, although Clooney initially evinced no interest in the project, it was dead-on casting in more ways than one. Heres why Catch-22 is the perfect George Clooney vehicle: Story continues He likes absurdist satire. The whole point of Catch-22 is to reveal, in all its absurd glory, the rampant insanity of sending humans to war to kill other humans. As soon as Clooney and his Smokehouse partner Grant Heslov (who also executive produces, acts and directs two episodes) read the script by Oscar-nominated Luke Davies (Lion) and Animal Kingdom writer-director David Michod (who left to direct another project), they were enthusiastically on board. Thats because the movie isnt just about World War II. Its about corporate greed and the burgeoning military industrial complex (see Daniel David Stewarts entrepreneurial mess officer Milo Minderbinder). Its about the crazy lengths people will go to look good to their bosses (see Kyle Chandlers apoplectic Colonel Cathcart), no matter how illogical their actions (see Lewis Pullmans ludicrously promoted Major Major Major Major). The infamous Catch-22, for example, is a bureaucratic rule explained to bombardier John Yossarian (Christopher Abbott), who is trying dodge missions by reason of insanity. A concern for ones own safety in the face of immediate danger, Doc Daneeka (Heslov) tells him, is the process of a rational mind, while a man is considered insane if he willingly continues to fly dangerous combat missions. A request to be removed from duty is evidence of sanity and therefore makes him ineligible to be relieved. It was not an easy project to get made, said Clooney. It took balls for Hulu to make a period classic novel like this, which is tricky. You can get into trouble with the complicated tone. Theres fun in it, but not a lot of likable people. The lead character is an unreliable jerk at times. It was a challenge to find an actor to carry off Yossarian, whos in every scene, constantly running away from danger and far from heroic. Clooney wanted to find a young Sam Rockwell, the star of his 2002 directorial debut Confessions of a Dangerous Mind. Hes the perfect actor who can do comedy and drama, Clooney said, qualities he also saw in Girls star Christopher Abbott. Rethinking Catch-22 in six one-hour TV episodes allows Hellers characters and stories to play out in full. It gives you the ability to care about each of these characters you are going to kill, said Clooney. It was a great luxury in storytelling. To watch my friend Mike [Nichols] movie again, that was one of the difficulties: when you are killing a bunch characters you havent gotten to know, you cant relate to them enough. Here you can see Nately fall for a lady of the evening. Getting to know the different characters and then have them not make it was important to us. Heller holds up after 40 years. We forget how absurd it is that old people make the decision and young people have to go kill each other, Clooney said. There is an absurdity to it all, as absurd as everything going on today. Heller really captured that. We loved the scripts, we worked on the endings a bit, so they glide to the next. Clooney was worried that Major Major, for example, might come out dated or camp, but Lewis Pullman (son of Bill Pullman) made made it not feel like farce, said Clooney. Its a testament to his acting that he made it work. When they screened the first episode, Clooney and Heslov had to remind Hulu that while Yoyo starts out unlikable, he has to grow into what he becomes at the end. We treated it like a six-hour movie, Clooney said. It has to build somewhere. We have the confidence to say hell do some rotten things and earn his compassion along the way. The final episode delivers an heroic Yossarian with a soldier dying in his arms. We know the story has a specific pattern, said Clooney. He does end up losing his mind and naked. We had to earn that somehow. Chris shows off his chops in that scene. We got in the back of the plane and started shooting, covered with sweat and fake blood, no breaks: were in here and were not going to let it stop now.' He likes to play stupid buffoons. At first Clooney, who loved his looney roles in the Coen brothers Burn After Reading, O Brother, Where Art Thou? and Hail, Caesar!, was planning to play the juiciest crazy madman in the series, the explosive Colonel Cathcart, but passed that plum leading role to Kyle Chandler, who he had worked with on Argo, taking instead the colorful crazy madman role with less screentime than Cathcart of Major Scheisskopf. Thats the officer who memorably demands that Yossarian (who screwed his wife) drop his pants so that he can personally check his wounded scrotum. And promptly sends him back in the air. Poor Yossarian is a man whose missions, it seems, will never be accomplished. As Cathcart, Chandler ran with the ball. Kyles part is immensely larger by leaps and bounds, said Clooney. Early on I saw that I didnt have the bandwidth to be producing, directing and acting in every single episode. So Kyle came on board. He usually plays an earnest, straightforward, trustworthy guy. This is a loud, angry buffoon! The first day of shooting was his first scene, with a gun: we all started howling. I have never seen Kyle do anything like this. Hes so oddly, naturally doing crazy lunatic. He went for it, hit the gas pedal. Our rule was to give Kyle more close-ups than I give myself. Clooney also got a kick out of hanging with Seven Beauties Oscar nominee Giancarlo Giannini. Were on set in Sardinia, we had 200 extras and 150 crew members, it was as if the king had walked in, everyone reacted to him like a proper Italian movie star. He likes a well-mounted period piece. Catch-22 boasts sumptuous production design and classic cinematography. It looks good, said Clooney, who hired Martin Ruhe, his D.P. on The American. I wanted it to look like movies youve seen from World War II, with the focus pulling in and out. Period is expensive. In order to pull off epic spectacle on a modest budget, Clooney needed help. He and Heslov decided to direct two episodes each and give two to cinematographer-turned-director Ellen Kuras. We should have a female director point-of-view telling some of the story, said Clooney. Its a male-dominated story. We went to Paramount. She had just had just done Ozark, we liked that a lot. Shes a great cinematographer. We met with her at the last minute. We had two weeks to prep and threw her into the fire. She showed up and knocked it out of the park, effortless. Grant and I, our job was to set a certain style with the rack focus and zoom, so wed do less coverage and stay inside Chriss head. It was intense. The three directors lined up their chairs on the set and moved through multiple episodes a day, often with hundreds of extras and VFX that went over-budget. We had to cross-board everything, said Clooney. Id finish a scene and say, youre up, and Chris would change clothes for Episode Five. Poor Chris, he had plenty of four different episode days. He was constantly moving and really prepared. He would be naked, covered in blood, and get cleaned up to get into military gear. Sometimes the directors were shooting on two different sets at the same time. It was a collaborative experience, said Clooney. We became an instant family. Its like, hurry up, I still have to make my day. Were responsible for each others day. Thats how we were able to pull it off on location, and shoot all six episodes in four months. The scope of the production is impressive, especially when you realize they used just two 80-year-old B-25s flown from California to Ohio. We did a lot of work, added Clooney. Its all about shooting the same sequence over and over again and tiling those planes, which is tedious work that pays off in the end. He likes independence. Falling back in love with TV doesnt meet that Clooney has abandoned movies. At a time when Hollywood movie studios are no longer producing sophisticated comedies and dramas, MGM president Jonathan Glickman offered Smokehouse a berth. Look guys, Clooney told him over dinner. Studios are not making the kind of movies I make. Days are past when a major studio backed political dramas like The Ides of March and Oscar-winner Good Night and Good Luck, which Clooney shot for $6.5 million. A studio doesnt look at $6.5 million when they now spend $30 million on prints and ads, he said. It doesnt compute. The business model is changing considerably. MGM promised to back the films he wants to make that dont fit into an easy category, including the DeLorean movie. He likes stories with substance. Clooney does what he likes. And he likes what he does, even if its unabashedly old-fashioned retro fare like Catch-22. On the film side, Suburbicon, Monuments Men and Leatherheads, were of a similar aesthetic but did not click with audiences. I looked at a few Marvel films, we talked about a couple, he said. But its not where my headspace is. I did one blockbuster superhero movie, I tanked that, it was not in my wheelhouse. Acting is less and less interesting to me unless its a really great part. Ill be 58 in a day. Im lucky that I get to work on things that I care about and am interested in, even if nothing feels safe. Its important to spend time working on something that excites me. We took money out of equation I sold a tequila company. So Im going to spend my time with my twins and my incredible wife, on the foundations we run. Catch-22 airs May 17 on Hulu. Sign up for Indiewire's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. A Mongolian couple died from the bubonic plague after eating raw marmot meat, causing a six-day quarantine to be declared in a western province of Mongolia earlier this month. Ariuntuya Ochirpurev from the World Health Organization in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia told the BBC that some in the area believe the raw meat of a marmot, a type of large rodent, has good health benefits. According to Ochirpurev, the 118 people who had come into contact with the couple were all isolated and treated with antibiotics. As of Tuesday, the quarantine had been lifted. After the quarantine [was announced], not many people even locals were in the streets for fear of catching the disease, Sebastian Pique, an American Peace Corps volunteer living in the region, told Agence France-Presse. RELATED: Pregnancy Deaths Are Rising in the United States, and Many Are Preventable: CDC Ochirpurev told the BBC that the couple had eaten raw marmot meat and kidney. Marmots are a known carrier of Yersinia pestis, the plague bacteria. According to the Washington Post, the man, 38, and his wife, 37, died of multiple organ failure caused by the plague. The Post reports that the couple left behind four children, from 9 months to 14 years old. RELATED: Howard Stern Reveals Recent Cancer Scare: All Im Thinking Is, Im Going to Die According to the Centers for Disease Control, the plague spreads to humans through infected fleas and rodents like squirrels, chipmunks and prairie dogs. Symptoms of the plague includes fever, chills and weakness. The most common sign of bubonic plague is the rapid growth of a swollen and painful lymph gland, according to the CDC. The plague has been responsible for tens of millions of deaths throughout history. Though it is rare now, the CDC warns that human plague infections still occur in the western United States and parts of Africa and Asia. According to the WHO, from 2010 to 2015 there were 3,248 cases of the plague reported worldwide, including 584 deaths. Julie Dash (Daughters of the Dust) is in pre-production on a feature documentary about the life and works of writer, culinary anthropologist, actor, and broadcast journalist, Vertamae Smart-Grosvenor. Titled Travel Notes of a Geechee Girl, the project has been awarded a grant by the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH), as part of the NEHs mission to preserve American history and cultural heritage. It marks Dashs first feature film since 2002s TV movie The Rosa Parks Story. Smart-Grosvenor, who died in 2016 at the age of 79, enjoyed a multifaceted career that locates her at the heart of five twentieth century movements: the Beat Literary Arts Movement, the Black Power/Black Arts Movement, New Black Cinema, and Food as Cultural Memory. She first gained attention with her 1970 book, Vibration Cooking, or the Travel Notes of a Geechee Girl, referred to as an autobiographical cookbook, using her rural Allendale County, S.C. cuisine to teach the world about the contributions made by people of African descent globally. Related stories 'Daughters of the Dust' Director Julie Dash Is Finally Making Her Second Film 'Daughters of the Dust' Restoration Trailer: Julie Dash's Seminal Independent Film Returns To Theaters This Fall Born in Fairfax, South Carolina, growing up in a Gullah family, Smart-Grosvenor traveled the world as editor for Elan magazine, made appearances on several television programs including the Today show and Nightline, and wrote magazine columns for Ebony, Jet, Essence, Publishers Weekly and Redbook to name a few. Travel Notes of a Geechee Girl She produced award-winning documentaries like 1983s Slave Voices: Things Past Telling, and Daufuskie: Never Enough Too Soon, and went on to host NPRs award-winning documentary series Horizons from 1988 until 1995, when it was discontinued. Story continues Smart-Grosvenor, also an actress, appeared in a number of films, including Julie Dashs own Daughters of the Dust, as well as Beloved (1998), based on Toni Morrisons 1987 novel of the same name. In 2012, Dash began recording interviews with Smart-Grosvenor, gathering hours of videotaped materials and transcripts that have informed the research for this film. Additionally, also to be included in the film are interviews with seminal artists like South African trumpeter Hugh Masekela, poets Sonia Sanchez, Quincy Troupe and Saul Williams, and culinary writers Rafia Zafar and Jessica B. Harris. Vertamaes story is important to our history and culture as well as the international artistic, intellectual and social movements of which she was an active participant, said director Dash. Receiving this grant only further supports the need for us to bring Travel Notes of a Geechee Girl to audiences of all race, ethnicities and cultures. Produced by Rachel Watanabe-Batton and Dash, with Patricia Williams Lessane, PhD. and Juanita Anderson as co-producers, the film is being made with full support of Smart-Grosvenors family. Sponsors include Women Make Movies, Black Public Media, The Avery Research Center for African American History and Culture at the College of Charleston, as well as the National Endowment for the Arts. For more information about the film, visit Travelnotesofageecheegirl.com. Sign up for Indiewire's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. CBD oil was in the news again this week when a great-grandmother was arrested outside Disney World for allegedly having the cannabis-based compound with purported medicinal benefits in her purse. The woman said her doctors recommended CBD for arthritis, and the charges were later dropped. But the arrest brought to light unanswered questions about the ingredient, which has been touted by celebrities like Kim Kardashian West and Kristen Bell and has gained a reputation as an elixir for ailments ranging from anxiety to diabetes. Specifically: Are the claims about CBDs benefits true? And is it even legal? The answers are complicated. Does CBD Have Health Benefits? Dr. Kevin Hill, an addiction psychiatrist and Director of the Division of Addiction Psychiatry at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, told PEOPLE in March, Its an extremely promising compound and there are a lot of studies that show its potential. But he added, While pre-clinical or animal studies show CBD may have anti-anxiety properties and may be antipsychotic, for the majority of uses, there is not a lot of evidence. RELATED: Does CBD Oil Really Work? A Doctor Weighs In Short for cannabidiol, CBD is a non-intoxicating chemical in the cannabis plant. Unlike THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), CBD does not make you high. So far, though, the FDA has only approved a version of CBD for two pediatric epilepsy conditions, making the CBD market a wild, wild west, according to Hill. The lack of regulation means most of the CBD purchased online is not approved. Youre not really sure what youre getting, he says, adding that a recent study showed only about 30 percent of commercial CBD products are accurately labeled. Kim Kardashian | Matt Baron/REX/Shutterstock The case of Hester Burkhalter, the 69-year-old woman arrested outside Disney World for allegedly having CBD oil, speaks to the problem of labeling: Burkhalters CBD oil tested positive for THC, despite the fact that the bottle reportedly claimed it contained zero milligrams of THC. Story continues That can be problematic when so many people are taking it. While the compound itself appears to be relatively safe, we need to know more, he says. Its not a great scenario to have millions of people using cannabidiol when we dont have the level of evidence that we need about its long-term effects or interaction with other medications. Is It Legal? Short answer: It depends which state youre in. The federal 2018 Farm Bill lifted a nationwide ban on producing hemp, from which the oil is made, and which formerly was classified as a controlled substance. But the bill left states to follow their own laws, many of which still classify hemp as illegal, reports The New York Times. RELATED: N.C. Woman, 69, Arrested Outside Disney World After Security Finds Her CBD Oil for Her Arthritis That means farmers who legally produce hemp in Oregon and Kentucky where hemp production is legal may have their product seized and drivers arrested as it travels through Idaho and Oklahoma, where police still enforce the ban, according to the Times. Kristen Bell | Michael Kovac/Getty 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. Complicating matters further is that state regulation may allow CBD oil in food and alcohol (for example, in Colorado and Missouri), which federal policy forbids without a doctors prescription, as it is in California and Georgia. RELATED: Kim Kardashian Is Obsessed With CBD Beauty Products, Plus More Stars that Love the Ingredient Federal law still says CBD oils are legal to possess if they contain no more than 0.3 percent THC, a component in marijuana that, like hemp, also is derived from the cannabis plant. But authorities in Texas, Ohio and other states have arrested those who sell CBD products no matter the THC level, according to the Times. A public hearing this month by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration will hear testimony on the safety of products containing cannabis and cannabis-derived compounds such as CDB. The Tampa Bay Times reports the Florida Department of Agriculture has ruled its illegal to sell hemp or CDB in the state, but the states agriculture commissioner Nikki Fried has advanced legislation to make state law consistent with federal law. With reporting by STEPHANIE PFEFFER and RACHEL DESANTIS Woori Financial Group Chairman Sohn Tae-seung, center, poses with a framed copy of his handprint with local officials and employees at an event celebrating the 120th anniversary of Woori Bank's Incheon branch, Wednesday. Sohn said the Incheon branch will continue to do its best to serve residents and the self-employed in Incheon. Courtesy of Woori Financial Group Domino's Pizza. Photo: Scott Olson/Getty Images The results of two big UK companies this week throw into sharp relief the dangers of expanding rapidly in new markets. The UK-based Dominos Pizza Group (DOM) and online estate agent Purplebricks (PURP.L) both admitted to problems in overseas markets this week. Dominos, which has exclusive rights over the brand in the UK, Ireland, Germany, Switzerland, Liechtenstein and Luxembourg, told investors on Tuesday it would not make a profit abroad this year. Meanwhile Purplebricks founder and CEO Michael Bruce stepped down as his chairman apologised to shareholders for overly rapid overseas expansion in Australia and the USA. Neil Wilson, chief markets analyst at Markets.com, said: International expansion is not as easy as it looks just ask the boards of Purplebricks and Dominos. READ MORE: Why Purplebricks founder left after seven years at firm He said Dominos investors had been left disappointed by the announcement, especially after a tough period of trying to get the ducks in a line on overseas operations throughout 2018. International sales rose but only by 1.1%, and it was more than offset by the costs of early expansion in new markets. Wilson said the 4.1m loss recorded by Dominos internationally last year amounted to costly growth for a part of the business that is only about 10% of revenues. He said tensions with franchisees and greater competition from the likes of Deliveroo and Uber Eats were also growing challenges for the firm. There is undeniably a problem in delivering ongoing growth in the UK, whilst in international markets although there is certainly scope for expansion, management is currently finding it hard going, making investors more cautious about the near-term prospects, said the analyst. READ MORE: Best-selling new cars in Britain right now The exit of Michael Bruce at Purplebricks means a third top-level departure over poor performance at the online estate agent this year. The firms US and UK boss both left in February, with shares sliding significantly over the past year. Story continues Wilson said the company, which has taken the UK market by storm since launching in 2012, had tried to expand too fast at a difficult time in the property market. But he noted that they were now focusing on shoring up their UK core market and growth in promising Canada, while Australian operations are being wound up and the US operations potentially scaled back. The UK housing market has softened, prices are falling in Australia and cracking the US is proving very difficult. Purplebricks tried to run before they could walk and are paying the price for being just a little bit too ambitious, said Wilson. An idealistic L.A. couple hes a cameraman, shes a private chef leave their tiny Santa Monica apartment behind and move an hour north to pursue their back-to-the-land ideals (at the behest of their anxious rescue dog, no less). But dreams of happy sheep and peach trees soon yield to the cold realities of coyotes, record droughts, and rogue snails in writer-director John Chesters winning, warm-hearted documentary. Chester and his wife Molly look like the kind of well-intentioned NPR-tote-bag types who compost and try not to buy the non-organic tomatoes at Trader Joes, though thats about the extent of their knowledge when they purchase 130 acres of parched dirt in Moorpark, California. Dirt is dead; soil is alive with organisms, and thats what they need to make this place begin to bloom which they do with the help of a beatific, grey-ponytailed mentor named Alan. Between their own inexperience and the basic unpredictability of nature, theres a lot of two steps forward, ten steps back, a struggle which Chester sometimes tends to gloss over. (More on that might have been more informative than a series of twee animation segments designed to move the early narrative along). He also never really gets into the details of how exactly the couple is able to sustain such an enormous undertaking financially, especially when they appear to be operating at a major loss for much of the movies running time. Its almost impossible, though, not to become emotionally invested in the films protagonists not just John and Molly but all the ones on fins and four legs as they struggle to maintain balance within an often unforgiving environment, and with one another. Chester doesnt shy away from some of the more brutal realities of farm life (breech births, chicken-coop massacres) even as he offers endearingly bite-sized character studies of rejected roosters, finicky pigs, and enough ridiculous baby livestock to fill a daily desk calendar. Story continues As the story unfolds over nearly a decade, Biggest becomes something even more impactful: a thoughtful and often profoundly moving portrait of the remarkable work involved in producing mindful food and an eloquent reminder that so much of what we take for granted on our plates is, in its own everyday way, a miracle. B+ Related Content: The last we saw Jane, she was sitting with Michael, agreeing to go to Montana for a few days so they could see if the new versions of themselves have a shot of working outside of Miami. Of course, after making the decision to take the leap, Jane immediately starts to doubt herself. She cant be away from Mateo for three days. What about Rafael? Hes in a dark place. And more importantly, what will she wear? Janes wardrobe does not scream ranch-friendly. Its Xo and Rogelio to the rescue! Janes mom promises to watch after Mateo and Rafael, and Rogelio cleans out the wardrobe closet on set for all his daughters cowgirl needs. Once she purges all of the Little House on the Prairie garb, Jane settles for some sensible jeans and white sparkly boots. Montana, here she comes! Michael swings by to pick Jane up and is surprised to see so much luggage for one small trip. When she assures him there is nothing she can leave behind, Michael happily carries all her luggage to the car before heading off to the airport. One flight, one taxi, and nine hours later, Jane sheepishly apologizes to Michael. She can tell hes upset that they missed their bus because they had to wait for all of Janes luggage. Michael chalks it up to a bump in the road, but is further annoyed when Jane refuses to get into a strangers truck and hitchhike to the ranch. Three hours and four counties later, Jane and Michael are well on their way to civilization. Or so Jane thought. Its her turn to be upset because Michael never told her that there wasnt any cell phone service where they were going. How many bumps in the road is this? Three? Oh wait, that last literal bump in the road was a possum and Jane does not think its funny that Michael wants to turn back and scrape it up for some good ole possum stew. They finally arrive. Jane scans Michaels one-bedroom abode. The tiny twin bed, couch, and fireplace feel very primitive. Maybe she should have packed her Little House on the Prairie bonnet. Wheres Pa and Ma? Story continues Jane goes to bed troubled, especially after she tries to send Xo a text message that doesnt go through. She wakes up three hours later with the roosters. Thanks to the roadkill, the near death by hitchhiker, and the mouse that just skittered across the floor, Jane is ready to tell Michael that shes made a big mistake. She walks out of the cabin into a wilderness wonderland. The scenery takes her breath away and she changes her tune when Michael hands her a tin cup full of coffee. Perhaps living for a few days in a picturesque postcard wont be that bad. Michael suggests they have a picnic. On the way to a ranch version of paradise, Michael takes an out-of-the-way alternative route in order to bypass the neighboring ranch. It seems Charlie is not a fan of Michael. Jane finds this hilarious. Rivaling ranchers! Its like shes living in a telenovela! Well, more than usual. Before they can settle down to eat their (I assume) possum casserole, grizzled ranch foreman Rick rides up, surprised to see Michael back in town. He demands that Michael get back to work immediately if he wants to earn his keep. Michael graciously tells Jane that she can go back to the cabin to write, but Jane is here to see Michael in his new natural habitat. She is here to help. I assume Janes answer would have been different if she knew that Michaels chores included mucking stalls. Thats raking up horse poop for those of you who didnt grow up around barns. Naturally a whimsical straw fight breaks out that concludes with Jane landing in a wheelbarrow of manure. Fun times. Obviously, Jane needs to take a shower. Obviously, the only shower is an outdoor one. And obviously, by shower I mean a pull rope with a bucket of water. Unfortunately, Jane is too short to both pull the rope and stand under the stream of cold water. So she has to enlist the help of her former dead husband to help out. Although he doesnt look, you can tell there are some sparks. Also, Jane barely washed herself, but if youre roughing it on the ranch, I guess good hygiene is optional. Everyone gathers around the campfire and Jane meets Keith, Michaels right-hand man. Spoiler: Keith is hot and I support the CW letting him star in a cowboy show. Ill start a letter writing campaign today. Around the fire, Jane shares character traits of the old Michael. The guys were surprised to hear that he was a cop, had a sense of humor, and actually spoke more than two sentences at a time. When one of the cowboys asks Jane when shes going to come out to Montana to be a ranch wife, Jane zones out and thinks about how she would ever tell Rafael if she chose to move away. She snaps out of it and rushes off to the woods which is code for the bathroom. She tries to call Xo, but alas, no service. Meanwhile, Rick gives Michael an ultimatum. He has to choose to stay here without Jane or live with her in Miami. Rick can clearly see that theres no way Jane is going to stay in Montana. He has 48-hours to decide. The next morning, Jane and Michael head out to mend a fence. Before Jane hops up onto her horse (comically of course,) she runs into Keith who asks if Michael has made a decision about Ricks deadline. Uh oh. Later, Michael notices that Janes horse is skittish, which means that the rider is agitated. Now that her horse has outed her, Jane comes clean. She wants to know why Michael didnt tell her about the ultimatum? Michael didnt want to add any pressure to the weekend. He knows that this isnt going to be easy, but he also feels there are more than two solutions. What if they do some long distance dating? Michael is certainly willing to figure out that new fangled FaceTime thing. The jurys still out if hes willing to spring for the Internet connection hell need to actually use it. Jane zones out for a second time, thinking about how happy Mateo would be with his own horse. When Michael calls her name, she shakes her head, knowing that what shes feeling is guilt. She hates what shes doing to Rafael. Michael totally understands. He came back from the dead. There is no instruction manual on this. The best way to get through the awkwardness is to mend a fence. Michael is super impressed with Janes ability to manipulate barbed wire. His admiration is short-lived when Ricks very expensive bull waltzes through the open part of the fence. Michael flawlessly hops up onto his horse to collect the bull. Jane follows behind on her own horse, holding on for dear life. As telenovela luck would have it, Rocky the Bull has wandered over onto Charlies land and is too far away for Michael to lasso him. This is when Jane offers to lasso the bull. Michael gives her a few pointers, lets her practice roping Bo the dog, then watches as she trots off into the sunset to collect the prize-winning bull. Jane finds Rocky behind a bush and is pleasantly surprised when she lassos him on her first try. Regrettably, she finds a woman sitting on top of a horse at the other end of her rope. Guess whose name is Charlie? This girl. Jane tries to talk her way out of Charlie shooting her while insisting that Michael isnt a terrible person. She begs Charlie to let her go and help her catch Rocky so Michael wont lose his job. PS: This is a last-ditch effort at their love story. She doesnt want to ruin true romance, does she? In the next scene, we see Jane riding up to Michael, holding the rope with Rocky on the other end. Jane doesnt take credit for roping the bull. She praises Charlie, adding that she was happy to help Jane. Michael smiles and begins setting up camp. Its too dark to head back to the cabins now. They will have to sleep on the ground. While the two lay down on their backs gazing at the stars, Jane and Michael finally get real. Jane wants to know if Michael could ever call Miami home after living in Montana. Michael deflects by telling Jane hes happy to be there with her. Jane wonders out loud if this is who Michael really is underneath it all. Instead of a detective, was he always a cowboy down deep who liked the quiet? Michael answers by saying, Its hard to figure out who I am now. Michael makes a joke, pretending to remember that Jane always loved camping. When Jane playfully smacks him on the shoulder, he adds, Oh that must have been another lady. They laugh and Jane puts her hand on his chest. Michael grabs her hand in his and then they share a very soft, sweet kiss. And I am done. The next morning, Jane and Michael wake up to an angry Charlie pointing a gun at them. She calls Michael a thief and threatens to shoot him. Heres what we know: Charlie needs therapy. Jane talks her off the ledge by spouting off all of Michaels amazing attributes. When she agrees to replace the chickens Charlie thinks Michael stole in exchange for Charlie not shooting them. Done. Charlie leaves to, presumably, go buy some more bullets. Michael is overwhelmed that Jane said so many nice things. He realizes at that moment that he doesnt want to stay in Montana without Jane. He doesnt want to do long distance. He vows that he will move to Miami, even while Jane reminds him how much he gave up for her before. That night, Jane gets a text from Xo that says, Rafael is fragile but he will be okay. And standing there in the silence of Montana, Jane knows what she had to do. She goes inside the cabin and tells Michael that the guilt shes been feeling toward Rafael is actually love. The biggest change that happened to her while Michael was gone is that she fell in love with a wonderful man. Shes still in love with him and thats not going to change. The moment with Michael has passed. Michael cries. Jane cries. I cry. Michael takes her to the bench in the middle of nowhere known as a bus stop and we watch as Jane makes her way back to Miami. As she makes her way back to Rafaels house. As she makes her way back into his life. I dont know what to feel. Rafael answers the door and Jane launches into an apology spiel. She explains that she said good-bye to Michael and to their past. But Rafael is Janes now, her tomorrow, and her always. What a line! Lets cross-stitch that on a pillow. Rafael looks at her with sad eyes. He shakes his head and tells Jane that he can never trust her again. Its too late. The moment has passed. Does our heroine meltdown into a puddle of tears in true Jane fashion? Not at all. As she sits on the front porch, unmoving swing with her mother and grandmother, she vows that she will fight for Rafael. And she will win. Their moment has not passed. It has only begun. And at this moment, Ive decided to embrace this love story. Related content: Amid fears a trade agreement with China is in jeopardy, President Trump says the Chinese Vice Premier is coming to the United States to make a deal. ....Guess what, thats not going to happen! China has just informed us that they (Vice-Premier) are now coming to the U.S. to make a deal. Well see, but I am very happy with over $100 Billion a year in Tariffs filling U.S. coffers...great for U.S., not good for China! Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) May 8, 2019 Another round of negotiations is slated to begin in Washington on Thursday. White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders told reporters the administration has received indication that the Chinese delegation wants to make a deal, though she did not elaborate on what new information the administration may have received. Despite the show of optimism from the president, tariffs are set to increase on Friday. Shortly after Trump tweeted on Wednesday morning, the United States Trade Representative moved to make the tariff hike official. Ambassador Robert Lighthizers office filed a notice with the Federal Register indicating tariffs on Chinese goods would increase from 10% to 25%. In the most recent negotiations, China has chosen to retreat from specific commitments agreed to in earlier rounds. In light of the lack of progress in discussions with China, the President has directed the Trade Representative to increase the rate of additional duty to 25 percent, the notice reads. China has threatened to take necessary countermeasures if the United States follows through on its tariff threat. Sen. John Thune (R-SD) told Yahoo Finance its a high-stakes...poker match. Sen. John Thune, R-S.D., speaks during a media availability after their policy luncheon on Capitol Hill, Tuesday, May 7, 2019 in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon) The president, I think, is trying to get Chinas attention and get them back to the table, said Thune. He believes our economy is strong and he has leverage and hes trying to make the most out of this opportunity to get a deal done with China. Story continues Many Republican senators have expressed concerns that trade tensions are hurting farmers in their states. While they may commend the presidents desire to crack down on Chinas unfair trade practices, they worry American farmers will pay the price as trade disputes drag on. Thune said farmers need to hear some good news. The ag economy is in the tank right now and every bit of bad news just piles on, said Thune. China not a fair player But Sen. Rick Scott (R-FL) brushed off concerns that higher tariffs will cost American consumers and businesses. If you look at the cost of whats happening to our companies when all the technology is being stolen add that cost in. Scott said he is not confident negotiators will get talks back on track this week. I dont believe China is a fair player, Scott said. I mean, think about this would you do a deal with somebody that constantly violated the law? No, you wouldnt. Thats what they do. They steal our technology. In the end, if there is no trade deal with China, Scott said the tariffs on Chinese goods would still absolutely be worth it. Weve got to do everything we can to build up the American economy and stop sitting here and trying to build up the Chinese economy, he said. We have Peace Corps volunteers in China. What are we doing? Theyre our competition. Theyre competing with us for jobs. Theyre competing with our companies, said Scott. Though he praised the presidents willingness to take on China, Sen. Mark Warner (D-VA) told Yahoo Finance he doesnt think Trump has a strategy and China should be addressed with an international coalition. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX) told Yahoo Finance hes hopeful negotiations will lead to significant progress to expand access to Chinese markets. He stopped short of criticizing the presidents plan to raise tariffs. There are aspects of trade policy in the Trump administration with which I disagree, but I do think the president has been far more vigorous than President Obama was in terms of pressing our trading partners especially China to expand access to their markets, said Cruz. Jessica Smith is a reporter for Yahoo Finance based in Washington, D.C. Follow her on Twitter at @JessicaASmith8. Read more: GOP senators worry metal tariffs could derail Trump's new NAFTA U.S. Chamber: Fixing infrastructure could 'turbo-charge' economy Trump's critics say revised NAFTA has 'minimal projected gains' There is a smart movie nestled somewhere in director Chris Addisons romp, The Hustle, but you have to weed through a whole lot of foolery to get to it. The new film is ripe for big laughs with Anne Hathaway and Rebel Wilson as, respectively, the snobby British bombshell with sticky fingers and the rough-around-the-edges though equally cunning con artist, but neither actress is given rich enough material to bring the films most interesting ideas to the finish line.Hollywood has had a growing fascination with the female swindler (think Widows or even Oceans 8, which also stars Hathaway), often to confront a larger issue of sexism and lack of female agency. And for about the first 20 minutes of The Hustle, it looks like screenwriter Jac Schaeffer sharing credit with her antecedents, the creators of 1964s Bedtime Story, Stanley Shapiro and Paul Henning, as well as Dale Launer, who wrote that films 1988 remake, Dirty Rotten Scoundrels is also trying to illustrate gender issues as well.For instance, one of the first scenes points to how superficial men are in the dating space and how they think of women as vulnerable and thoughtless in order to take advantage of them. Penny (Wilson) is catfishing a guy (Timothy Simons, Veep) who thinks hes at the bar to meet a buxom blonde with whom hes been messaging for a month; instead, hes duped by Penny pretending to be his dates sister, claiming his text-girlfriend is too shy to show up in person because shes only an A-cup and cant afford a boob job. Spoiler alert: the guy with the paper-thin personality is willing to do whatever it takes even Venmo-ing Penny hundreds of dollars on the spot for the breast enhancement of a made-up woman in whom hes only interested in for sex anyway. Its one of those funny-because-its-true moments in the film that point out a real issue but fail to interrogate it.Watch Video: Rebel Wilson and Anne Hathaway are 'Dirty Rotten' Con Artists in 'The Hustle' TrailerAnd thats a shame, because there is certainly ample opportunity to present a subversive story about two masterful female scammers who employ tricks typically executed by men in film against them. In the first heist we see with Josephine (Hathaway), shes playing a dim-witted Southern belle who can barely hold up her end of a conversation, so of course she attracts a googly-eyed international tycoon determined to spend the night with her. She ends up lifting his wifes diamond bracelet right out of his hands.The fact that these men are too blinded by their preconceived notions of women even to consider that they are capable of committing these acts or that theyre smart enough to pull them off is a pervasive ideology that could resonate with any female audience member. So the very thought of Penny and Josephine joining forces in the south of France and consequently torching the criminal patriarchy is simply delectable.See Photos: 18 Movie Reboots With Gender-Swapped Leads, From 'His Girl Friday' to 'The Hustle'But thats not what happens at all. Much like the male-centered Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, The Hustle pits the two women against each other and turns conning men into a competitive sport. Specifically one man, though: an app inventor (Alex Sharp, How to Talk to Girls at Parties) who they assume is too immature and nice to suspect anything from them. Theres no camaraderie that ensues between Penny and Josephine or a sense that theyre even contending with the same issues. In fact, the class difference between the two women is often used as a tired punchline. Penny is the clumsy one with the tacky clothes who doesnt know how to walk in heels, while Josephine is the polished ballgown diva who uses her statuesque figure to claim authority over both her male victims and Penny.Though it makes for some impeccable costumes by designer Emma Fryer (Free Fire) particularly Josephines colorful and gorgeous pantsuits and stunning dresses the contrast between the two women isnt anything we havent seen before. How many times do we need to see the fat woman be the punchline and how much longer will Wilson endure this characterization? Similarly, how often have we already seen the snooty British female character with a stick up her butt (as Penny describes Josephine in the film)? While the two actresses are charming to watch and work well together, nothing about what happens in the film is particularly new or exciting. It all falls flat, even the laughs (that are few and far between).Watch Video: That Time Rebel Wilson Called Anne Hathaway an 'Animatronic C-- Tease'It would have been more interesting if the roles were reversed, especially since Wilson already has an Australian accent and Hathaway, whos American, is feigning a continental lilt. As provocative as The Hustle begins, the film could have really shifted the status quo with different casting. It is, however, nice to see Wilsons character end up in a romantic situation rather than Josephine, though the romance mostly takes place offscreen.There are so many missed opportunities to make this film sharper. Even with a female writer brought on board for this third go-round, the multiple voices are diluted into one dull theme and mute the womens perspective. As a result, The Hustle goes from a forward-thinking female-centered modern reimagining to a silly, empty, and entirely useless remake. Read original story The Hustle Film Review: Anne Hathaway and Rebel Wilson Are Robbed of a Worthwhile Comedy At TheWrap There is a smart movie nestled somewhere in director Chris Addisons romp, The Hustle, but you have to weed through a whole lot of foolery to get to it. The new film is ripe for big laughs with Anne Hathaway and Rebel Wilson as, respectively, the snobby British bombshell with sticky fingers and the rough-around-the-edges though equally cunning con artist, but neither actress is given rich enough material to bring the films most interesting ideas to the finish line. Hollywood has had a growing fascination with the female swindler (think Widows or even Oceans 8, which also stars Hathaway), often to confront a larger issue of sexism and lack of female agency. And for about the first 20 minutes of The Hustle, it looks like screenwriter Jac Schaeffer sharing credit with her antecedents, the creators of 1964s Bedtime Story, Stanley Shapiro and Paul Henning, as well as Dale Launer, who wrote that films 1988 remake, Dirty Rotten Scoundrels is also trying to illustrate gender issues as well. For instance, one of the first scenes points to how superficial men are in the dating space and how they think of women as vulnerable and thoughtless in order to take advantage of them. Penny (Wilson) is catfishing a guy (Timothy Simons, Veep) who thinks hes at the bar to meet a buxom blonde with whom hes been messaging for a month; instead, hes duped by Penny pretending to be his dates sister, claiming his text-girlfriend is too shy to show up in person because shes only an A-cup and cant afford a boob job. Spoiler alert: the guy with the paper-thin personality is willing to do whatever it takes even Venmo-ing Penny hundreds of dollars on the spot for the breast enhancement of a made-up woman in whom hes only interested in for sex anyway. Its one of those funny-because-its-true moments in the film that point out a real issue but fail to interrogate it. Watch Video: Rebel Wilson and Anne Hathaway are 'Dirty Rotten' Con Artists in 'The Hustle' Trailer Story continues And thats a shame, because there is certainly ample opportunity to present a subversive story about two masterful female scammers who employ tricks typically executed by men in film against them. In the first heist we see with Josephine (Hathaway), shes playing a dim-witted Southern belle who can barely hold up her end of a conversation, so of course she attracts a googly-eyed international tycoon determined to spend the night with her. She ends up lifting his wifes diamond bracelet right out of his hands. The fact that these men are too blinded by their preconceived notions of women even to consider that they are capable of committing these acts or that theyre smart enough to pull them off is a pervasive ideology that could resonate with any female audience member. So the very thought of Penny and Josephine joining forces in the south of France and consequently torching the criminal patriarchy is simply delectable. See Photos: 18 Movie Reboots With Gender-Swapped Leads, From 'His Girl Friday' to 'The Hustle' But thats not what happens at all. Much like the male-centered Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, The Hustle pits the two women against each other and turns conning men into a competitive sport. Specifically one man, though: an app inventor (Alex Sharp, How to Talk to Girls at Parties) who they assume is too immature and nice to suspect anything from them. Theres no camaraderie that ensues between Penny and Josephine or a sense that theyre even contending with the same issues. In fact, the class difference between the two women is often used as a tired punchline. Penny is the clumsy one with the tacky clothes who doesnt know how to walk in heels, while Josephine is the polished ballgown diva who uses her statuesque figure to claim authority over both her male victims and Penny. Though it makes for some impeccable costumes by designer Emma Fryer (Free Fire) particularly Josephines colorful and gorgeous pantsuits and stunning dresses the contrast between the two women isnt anything we havent seen before. How many times do we need to see the fat woman be the punchline and how much longer will Wilson endure this characterization? Similarly, how often have we already seen the snooty British female character with a stick up her butt (as Penny describes Josephine in the film)? While the two actresses are charming to watch and work well together, nothing about what happens in the film is particularly new or exciting. It all falls flat, even the laughs (that are few and far between). Watch Video: That Time Rebel Wilson Called Anne Hathaway an 'Animatronic C-- Tease' It would have been more interesting if the roles were reversed, especially since Wilson already has an Australian accent and Hathaway, whos American, is feigning a continental lilt. As provocative as The Hustle begins, the film could have really shifted the status quo with different casting. It is, however, nice to see Wilsons character end up in a romantic situation rather than Josephine, though the romance mostly takes place offscreen. There are so many missed opportunities to make this film sharper. Even with a female writer brought on board for this third go-round, the multiple voices are diluted into one dull theme and mute the womens perspective. As a result, The Hustle goes from a forward-thinking female-centered modern reimagining to a silly, empty, and entirely useless remake. Read original story The Hustle Film Review: Anne Hathaway and Rebel Wilson Are Robbed of a Worthwhile Comedy At TheWrap Donald Tusk - the one man who wants Britain to remain in the EU, according to MP Stephen Kinnock. Just four countries and one man want the UK to remain in the European Union, MPs have been told. Labour MP Stephen Kinnock told the Brexit select committee that just Poland, Ireland, Hungary and Portugal want the UK to remain - alongside Donald Tusk, president of the European Council. It comes as the Government and Labour reached the end of another day of talks on how to reach a compromise over a Brexit deal, after it was confirmed yesterday that the UK would be forced to take part in European elections on May 23. Mr Kinnock said: Poland, Ireland, Hungary and Portugal and Donald Tusk are actually the only countries that want the UK to stay in the EU. Stephen Kinnock in Whitehall, London. Mr Kinnock has said just Ireland, Poland, Hungary and Portugal want the UK to remain in the EU. (PA) All the rest want us out because we have become toxic, a sort of virus in the European body politic and if we were to have a referendum and remain and potentially ending up with a hardline Eurosceptic as prime minister we would simple be back to where we are now and that would potentially wreck the European project. However, some experts said it was not so straight forward but agreed member states were becoming increasingly frustrated after Britain missed its original departure date of March 29 2019. Read more from Yahoo News UK: Wasps are smarter than bees - researchers claim Royal baby will not suffer racism in UK Tributes pour in to big hearted soldier killed by elephant Former British official in the European Commission Sir Jonathan Faull said: This stable, rational pragmatic country seems unrecognisable to many watching us and there is no going back and I think certain things are irrevocable. European experts giving evidence to the parliamentary committee said it was not as binary as Kinnock suggested but agreed impatience in the EU was creeping in. Anti-Brexit protestor Steve Bray outside the Houses of Parliament, London. Charles Grant, director for the Centre for European Reform, argued that nobody knows what countries truly think as there has been no formal requirement to make public their position. Mr Grant claimed French leader Emmanuel Macron was isolated in his tactical position at the last European council summit when he pushed for a short extension against the majority who backed Angela Merkel view that if you give them a very long extension, Eurosceptics will think Brexit will never happen and vote for the withdrawal agreement. Story continues The Spanish backed Merkels position but he gathered they were quite happy to see the UK leave, Grant told MPs. Sweden was also conflicted. It wanted the UK to remain but was so fed up with British indecision. Kerry Katona didnt appear in court, but the plea was made on her behalf (PA Images) Kerry Katona has been fined 500 after pleading guilty to failing to send one of her five children to school. The former Atomic Kitten signer didnt appear in court today, but the plea was made on her behalf this morning. She previously denied the charge at Brighton and Hove Magistrates Court earlier this year. Katona had been charged with failing to ensure that one of her five children attended school regularly between April 2018 and November 2018. The court heard that Katona failed to attend meeting with the school about her childs attendance, and that she became overwhelmed by a number of letters to which she didnt respond. At the lowest point, her childs attendance was down to 48%. This is the second time Katona has been charged with the same offence Katonas defence claimed that Katona was sometimes unable to get her child to school due to her work commitments. He defence, Ed Fish said: Some of the time, Miss Katona has contacted the school and some of the time, she has not. The child has missed school sometimes due to work commitments when Miss Katona has been out of the school area and has no child care. Read more: Kerry Katona said she considered ending it all Fish added: She has not had childcare and has had to take her children with her. She understands she should have maintained better contact with the school. Her financial situation is not great. She was subject to bankruptcy. She is anxious to provide for her children. Gareth Jones, prosecuting on behalf of the education authority, said: Miss Katona met with council and discussed the importance of her child attending school. Unfortunately attendance got worse and went down to 48 per cent. We wanted to make it clear how important it is that the child attends school. This is the second time Katona has been charged with the same offence, after taking her family on holiday to Barbados in 2017 and failing to pay a fine. Kim Kardashian Flies to Charlotte with Her Doctor to Help Newly Freed Man Remove His Face Tattoos Kim Kardashian West is continuing to help former prison inmates in any way she can. Azaria Algarin of Charlotte, North Carolina, detailed how Kardashian West, 38, not only responded to a letter her brother Paul Algarin who was incarcerated over the course of seven years wrote to her while in prison, but the reality star also she flew in after the 2019 Met Gala to meet with him. Recently my brother was released from central prison where he served an accumulation of 7 years, Azaria captioned a post shared Tuesday, which featured a series of Instagram photos of her and her brother meeting Kardashian West and Kanye West. (Azaria has since deleted the caption.) Throughout my brothers time in prison he shared his dreams, aspirations, and goals with me- I always thought some were unrealistic & silly. He asked me for Kims address so he could send her a letter & I rolled my eyes & never sent I, Azaria added. Eventually my mom sent it to him so he would stop harassing us. To Azarias surprise, Kardashian West responded and then some. In addition to taking the time to fly out to Charlotte, Kardashian West also brought her doctor with her to help start the procedure of removing 24-year-old Pauls facial tattoos. RELATED: Kim Kardashian Announces New True-Crime Show After Reportedly Helping Free 17 People from Prison Fast forward to yesterday. Kim flew in to CLT with her doctor to have lunch with us & start the procedure of removing my brothers face tattoos, Azaria added. Never in a million years did I think Kim would write him back (or even read his letter), fly in right after the met gala (not to mention her 4th baby is due at any minute), invest in our family & laugh / relate to us over the smallest things. Im so proud of my brother for taking steps in the right direction. Our relationship hasnt been the easiest, she admitted. I pushed him away for years out of hurt for his absence, but yesterday was all the feels. I felt like we were children again & that he wasnt gone for the last 7 years. Such a special day that I will forever cherish. Story continues Kim Kardashian West | Matt Baron/REX/Shutterstock Azaria wrapped up her post by adding the hashtags: #betterdaysarecoming #dream #goals #mentalhealthawareness #charlotte #bigbrother #love #family #kimkardashian #kanyewest. PEOPLE is out to Kardashian Wests rep for comment. Kardashian West, who started a four-year apprenticeship with a law firm in San Francisco last summer, recently opened up on Sundays episode of Keeping Up with the Kardashians about focusing her attention on prison reform. Its kind of crazy because Im learning it all as I go, she said. I spend more time on this than I do anything else. Its insane but its so fun to be around people that are super smart and get it and want the same thing. RELATED: Kim Kardashian Says She Wants to Give Up Being Kim K in 10 Years and Focus on Prison Reform Aiming to take the bar in 2022, the reality star credits her late father Robert Kardashian with inspiring her to become a lawyer. I told my dad years ago that I was really into criminal justice and he was like, This will stress you out so much, you do not really want to take this on, she recalled. I think now having gotten so deep in helping Alice [Marie Johnson], Im really motivated to get to know the law more and fight for people who deserve a second chance like her. Meanwhile, Kardashian West has reportedly helped orchestrate the release of 17 inmates over the last three months, according to TMZ. In 2018, she managed to petition President Donald Trump to commute the life sentence of Alice Marie Johnson, a nonviolent drug offender. Lucas Moura celebrates for Tottenham (Photo by Matthew Ashton - AMA/Getty Images) Lucas Moura was the Tottenham hero on another night of Champions League drama as the Lillywhites reached the final for the first time in their history. Despite Ajax adding two more to their first leg lead, Mauricio Pochettinos team staged a remarkable second half comeback to seal an away goals victory following a 3-3. The result sets up an all-English clash in Madrid on June 1 following Liverpools win over Barcelona. AS IT HAPPENED: Ajax stunned after Spurs come back to reach Champions League final READ MORE: Toby Alderweireld: Tottenham 'left hearts on the pitch' in stunning Ajax comeback Ajax, not content with their first leg advantage, fired an early warning when Dusan Tadic forced a fine save from Hugo Lloris. Spurs were instantly punished from the resultant corner as Matthijs de Ligt leapt higher than the Tottenham defence to head past a static Lloris to give them the lead on the night. Tadic had the chance to extend the Ajax advantage on the half hour but his left-footed shot crept wide of the far post with Lloris beaten. The Dutch side didnt have to wait too long however as Hakim Ziyech made it 2-0 five minutes later, striking powerfully from just inside the area from Tadics clever pass. Devastated Ajax following the late drama in Amsterdam (Photo by Matthew Ashton - AMA/Getty Images) Spurs knew they needed to change their approach and went more direct in the second half. Tottenham finally found a breakthrough 10 minutes into the second half through Lucas Moura who slotted the ball past Onana after great work from Dele Alli. Four minutes later, the North Londoners were level on the night as Moura pounced again to finish excellently following Onanas point blank save from substitute Fernando Llorente. Spurs knew their luck was in as a drilled Ziyech shot came back off the post with 10 minutes on the clock. Following Liverpools win over Barcelona the previous night, another unbelievable comeback was complete as Moura sealed his hat-trick with a 95th minute winner to write his name into the history books. As the final whistle blew, Tottenham players and staff raced onto the pitch to celebrate the biggest victory in the clubs recent history. Story continues A tearful Pochettino embraced his players and will take his team to Spain looking to land Europes biggest prize for the first time the clubs history. Featured from our writers: Luke Perry Luke Perrys family opted for a much more financially and environmentally sound burial process for the Beverly Hills, 90210 star, and only had to drop $1,500 to satisfy Perrys last wishes. The Blast spoke with Jae Rhim Lee, the Founder and CEO of Coeio, who has developed a mushroom burial suit to help a human body easily decompose back into the earth in a natural way. Lukes daughter, Sophie, recently revealed her famous dad had been buried in one of the suits, and Lee tells us the star was legitimately into the idea and expressed that he wanted to be buried in one. Were told he had expressed to his family that he eventually wanted to be buried in the suit, but obviously nobody could expect he would be needing it so soon. Lee says Lukes family actually put in the order online for a $1,500 burial suit and then had reps reach out to let them know the order was for the 52-year-old star, who had passed away from a stroke. She then personally handled the order to make sure everything went smoothly. Coeio Were told the idea of the burial suit, which is stuffed with fungi that utilize the natural toxins released from the body and human tissue after death, was extremely appealing to Luke, and his family are hoping the stars death will help bring awareness to the burial option. Lee says she was invited by Luke Perrys family to attend his private memorial service in April, and spoke about the suit. She stressed that discussing the burial suit actually opens the door to talk to your family about death. As we reported, Luke was buried on his family farm in Dickson County, Tennessee, and were told his family was initially worried about the mushroom burial suit properly decomposing in the rocky soil at the farm. Were told even though the soil is rocky, it is moist enough to activate the bio-mix in the suit and begin the decomposition process, which could take anywhere from a few months to a few years. Lee wouldnt reveal the mix of mushrooms that are placed in the suit, but did say it is a variety of species. Story continues As for how he was actually buried, were told Lukes body was placed on a board once he was inside the suit, and his body was lowered into his final resting place. The end result is that Lukes body will be transformed into vital nutrients and fed back into the Earth. Luke Perry Dead The post Luke Perrys Family Spent $1,500 on Mushroom Burial Suit appeared first on The Blast. Woori Financial Group Chairman Sohn Tae-seung / Korea Times file By Kim Bo-eun Woori Financial Group's Chairman Sohn Tae-seung is making all out efforts to raise prices of the group's shares. He is trying to show his confidence on the future performance of the financial group through multiple stock repurchases while planning overseas investor relations sessions to attract more foreign investment. Last week, he bought back 5,000 group shares, which is the third such purchase this year. Sohn bought 5,000 shares in February and March, respectively. He now owns a total of 53,127 shares of Woori Financial Group. At the same time, the chairman plans to visit Hong Kong and Japan in late May to meet institutional investors there, including pension funds. The investor relations meetings are aimed at attracting new investment. Sohn's strong drive came as the group's share prices have not bounced back in line with its handsome business performance. After Woori Bank switched to a holding company in January, its net profit surged to 568.6 billion won in the first quarter. Woori surpassed Hana Financial Group to become the nation's third-largest financial group by net profit following Shinhan and KB. The group's solid performance in the first quarter, however, failed to provide the impetus for the prices of its shares. A former Pennsylvania gym teacher is accused of repeatedly sexually assaulting a 14-year-old male student for more than six months. Rochelle L. Cressman, 32, faces dozens of charges including 10 counts of statutory sexual assault, 10 counts of involuntary deviant sexual intercourse and 42 counts of indecent assault of a person less than 16 years old, the Titusville Herald, Erie News Now and the Meadville Tribune report. She is accused of having sexual contact with the boy at least 10 times beginning in September 2018 and ending in April. Until recently, Crosman was a middle school gym and health teacher with the Titusville Area School District. She was hired in 2009 and is married. 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. Pennsylvania State Police began investigating Crssman after the alleged victims mother notified authorities. The boy allegedly told police that Cressman initiated the sexual contact. The two allegedly had sex at her home and at another local residence, the Herald reports. Cressman has not been with the school district since April 12, according to Erie News Now. As of Thursday, Cressman was behind bars in Crawford County Jail on a $75,000 bond. It is unclear whether she has an attorney or if she has entered a plea to the charges against her. Charges Filed in Crash That Killed N.J. Couple On Way to Wedding Formal vehicular homicide charges have been filed in Pennsylvania against an allegedly reckless tractor-trailer driver. Police allege he was responsible for a fiery collision last fall that took the lives of a New Jersey couple who were driving to Pittsburgh for their wedding. PEOPLE obtained the arrest warrant issued this week by Pennsylvania State Police for Jaspreet Singh Chahal, a 24-year-old Fresno, California, man wanted for careless driving resulting in death, operating a hand-held mobile telephone when driving, and related traffic offenses. The charges follow a seven-month investigation into the fatal accident involving at least five tractor trailers. Authorities say Chahal currently remains at large. His whereabouts are unknown. Back on Nov. 14 of last year, 35-year-old Kathryn Schurtz, of Jersey City, New Jersey, and her fiance, 42-year-old Joseph Kearney, were killed in the crash, which happened on Interstate 78. RELATED: Couple Killed in 6 Vehicle Pileup While Driving to Their Own Wedding Were the Brightest Lights The couple was driving to Pittsburgh, where they were planning to wed within days. The arrest warrant alleges Chahal was distracted while driving his truck, and failed to notice signage regarding an upcoming work zone and that traffic ahead of him had stopped. The 18-wheeler pushed the couples vehicle into another, launching a pileup of five total tractor-trailers. The couples car and two of the tractor-trailers caught fire. In Pennsylvania, operators of commercial vehicles are prohibited from holding a mobile telephone while driving. Berks County District Attorney John T. Adams told the Reading Eagle that finding Chahal, who has no attorney of record, is our main goal at this point. 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. Adams added: Ive seen many horrific facts from accidents. In this case, we certainly believe he never braked before impacting the vehicles ahead of him, which makesthe facts of this case extremely egregious. PEOPLE was unable to reach Chahal for comment. A teacher at Glen Park Elementary School in San Francisco will be out for the rest of the school year as she undergoes cancer treatment. Along with sky-high medical bills, the beloved teacher will also have to pay for a substitute to take over her second-grade class. The teacher, whose name has not been made public to protect her privacy, was diagnosed with breast cancer and has exhausted her sick days, according to a GoFundMe page set up for the woman. Now, as she uses her extended leave time, the teacher will have the cost of a substitute deducted from her pay, the San Francisco Chronicle reported. Parents were outraged and incredulous like, this cant be, Amanda Fried, whose daughter attends the school, told the Chronicle. There must be some mistake. As it turns out, the situation stems from a decades-old policy stating that teachers who go on leave for injury or illness for five months have the cost of a substitute pulled from their paychecks. Because teachers in the state dont pay into Californias disability insurance program, they cannot access its benefits, according to the Chronicle. Substitute teachers can cost up to $240.26 a day. The San Francisco Unified School District did not immediately respond to a request for comment from PEOPLE, but spokesperson Laura Dudnick told Buzzfeed News that the policy was not determined by the district. This is not unique to San Francisco, Dudnick said. It is in the [Education] Code. This is not a district-only rule. RELATED: School Principal Sparks Outrage with Dress Code for Parents, Banning Bonnets, Low-Cut Tops & More Although the policy has been around since the 70s, it has garnered national attention since the Chronicle reported the teachers story and sparked outrage in the elementary school community. Shes an incredible teacher and thats not fair. Thats crazy! parent Elia Hernandez told KABC. Another parent, Abby Hipps, added: Shes wonderful, shes a beautiful lovely great teacher. Shes one of the best teachers. Its terrible. Story continues A teacher also voiced her concern, telling KABC, It makes me worry if that were to happen to me, I have to plan accordingly, and thats not fair, you know. The California Department of Education did not immediately respond to a request for comment from PEOPLE. More than 130 people have donated $13,720 to the womans GoFundMe, exceeding its $10,000 goal. This will cover the cost of her substitute teacher for the rest of the school year, medical copayments and deductibles, and additional lost income when her husband takes time off to care for [the teacher] and their two teenage children, the page states, noting that the woman has undergone surgery and will have another before beginning standard cancer treatment. The students were deeply saddened to learn that Mrs. Ramirez would not return this academic year, the campaign noted, and they all promise to be on their best behavior for their substitute teacher. CNN Films announced Wednesday that it has partnered with director Dawn Porters Trilogy Films and actress Erika Alexanders Color Farm Media to develop a documentary feature that will chronicle the remarkable and expansive life of civil rights icon and Georgia Congressman John Robert Lewis. Porter (Bobby Kennedy for President, Trapped) is directing the currently untitled verite film which will illustrate how the 79-year-old Lewis 60+ years of legendary social activism and legislative action on civil rights, voting rights, gun control, healthcare reform, and immigration, prepped him for the battles he fights today. The film will incorporate interviews with Lewis, his family, other political leaders, colleagues, as well as a wealth of archival footage, rare and recently-discovered writings from Lewis and people in his intimate circle, to illuminate his past and continued influence on American culture and Congress. Related stories 'Bobby Kennedy for President': Making a Four-Hour Series on a Celebrity Politician Who Actually Respected Government Gravitas Ventures Acquires 'Legion of Brothers' -- Sundance 2017 Audiences will learn from Lewis extraordinary American story, beginning with his childhood experiences, to his fateful 1957 meeting with Martin Luther King, Jr., becoming one of Kings most trusted contemporaries. He was the youngest speaker at the 1963 March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom, demonstrating preternatural oratory skills and a steadfast commitment to social justice that continues to define him. The film will center Lewis exhaustive campaign schedule for himself and others in advance of the 2018 U.S. midterm elections, through the first year of the 116th Congress, as Porters cameras follow all the political intrigue that was to be found in the lead up to, during and after a record-setting government shutdown, and will continue to follow Lewis through 2019. Story continues John Lewis is a national treasure whose leadership paved the way for a generation, said director Porter. In much the same way as his life and work has been shaped by great civil rights leaders, Congressman Lewis continues to serve the country, introducing legislation to protect our most fundamental rights. There has never been a more urgent need for the type of moral and compassionate leadership that he embodies. CNN Films is honored to be a part of telling Rep. John Lewis historic life through Dawns film, said Amy Entelis, executive VP for talent and content development for CNN Worldwide, and Courtney Sexton, vice president for CNN Films, both executive producers for the film, which follows the recent successes of other CNN Films-produced documentaries, including RBG (2018), Three Identical Strangers (2018), and Apollo 11 (2019). The film about John Lewis marks the third collaboration between CNN Worldwide and producer Laura Michalchyshyn. Their previous collaborations include the CNN Original Series Chicagoland (2014), and Death Row Stories, now approaching its fourth season as an HLN Originals Series. One of the most courageous activists of the Civil Rights Movement, Lewis has dedicated his life to protecting human rights, securing civil liberties, and making what he calls Good Trouble. His commitment to the highest ethical standards and moral principles has won him the admiration of many of his colleagues on both sides of the aisle, and at a time when the country is more divided than its been in recent American history, a film on a proven unifier like John Lewis (the first of its kind) couldnt be more timely. Sign up for Indiewire's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Joe Ousalice (left) was court-martialled in 1993 and found guilty of being in bed with another sailor (PA) A Falklands veteran says he is suing the Ministry of Defence (MoD) for the return of his medals that he says he was stripped of because of his sexuality. Joe Ousalice, 68, was court-martialled in 1993 and found guilty of being in bed with another sailor, which the service said was prejudicial to good order and naval discipline. However, Mr Ousalice has always denied the charge, and said he was forced to reveal his bisexuality at the court martial before being discharged from the Navy because he might "corrupt" others. Mr Ousalice has always denied the charge, but said he was forced to reveal his bisexuality at the court martial (BBC) The judgement brought an end to his 18-year naval career, during which he served in the Falklands, Northern Ireland and the Middle East. The Navy confiscated his medal and three Good Conduct badges at the time of his dismissal. He is now taking the MoD to court to have them returned. Read more from Yahoo News UK: Theresa May risks Tory revolt by refusing calls to step aside Nigel Farage insists Euro elections will change everything Mixed-race royal baby 'will not suffer racism in the UK' Mr Ousalice said he lived a "double life" while he was in the Navy, and was careful not to associate with other sailors whom he knew were gay. "I was watching every day what I was saying, what I was doing," he told the BBC. "After the court martial was completed, a guy came in with a pair of scissors and said 'Sorry, mate, I need your medal', and just cut the medal off me. The Navy confiscated the veteran's medal and three Good Conduct badges at the time of his dismissal (PA) "The fact that I had been to the Middle East, to the Falklands, to Northern Ireland six times means a lot to me and that medal is proof to me that I was good enough for all those years, and yet somebody can just come and take it from you." Mr Ousalice's lawyers, from human rights organisation Liberty, argue that he was discharged "entirely because of his sexuality. The group wants other medals that were confiscated from military personnel because of their sexuality to be returned to them. Mr Ousalice served in the Falklands, Northern Ireland and the Middle East (PA) Emma Norton, Head of Legal Casework at Liberty suggested that as result of the culture at the time, Joe was very unlikely to be the only person in this situation. Story continues She said: The MoD discriminated horribly against LGBT members of the armed forces for decades. They subjected people to degrading and intrusive investigations into their private lives, destroying careers and damaging lives. Joe is very unlikely to be the only one in this situation. Mr Ousalice said he lived a "double life" while he was in the Navy (BBC) Gay people were not allowed to serve in the military until a rule change in 2000. An MoD spokesman said it would be "inappropriate" to comment as legal proceedings are ongoing. "We are currently looking at how personnel discharged from service because of their sexuality, or now abolished sexual offences, can have their medals returned," he added. My favorite keyboard of all time will always be the Minimoog, Rick Wakeman says in an extended version of a scene that will appear in Electronic Voyager, an upcoming doc on the life of legendary synth inventor Robert Moog. I couldnt live without one. In the film, Moogs daughter, Michelle Moog-Koussa, retraces the footstep of her father from his birthplace in Queens, New York, to his eventual home of Asheville, North Carolina. Along the way, she meets with various prominent musicians who have used Moog synths in their work, including Gary Numan, Jean-Michel Jarre and Wakeman, best known for his many tenures in Yes. Related stories The Rise and Fall of Wax Trax Shock and Aww: Inside the Mostly Wild and Sometimes Mild Life of Dr. Ruth In this clip, Moog-Koussa visits Wakeman in Norfolk, England, at a building where he stores all his gear, including his collection of Minimoogs that hes used over the years. Welcome to my store, the keyboardist says, welcoming Moog-Koussa inside. See the mess in there? We know where most things are. He tells his guest that he has nine Minimoogs. He got the first one from actor Jack Wild, who gave it up because he wrongly thought the monophonic instrument was broken since it couldnt play more than one note at a time. Then, around the time Yes became successful in the early Seventies, Wakeman began building up his collection. The Fragile album was a massive hit, so I bought two more, and then like some people collect stamps and some people collect cars I collect Minimoogs, he says. He goes on to talk about how the Minimoog revolutionized the role of the keyboard in rock music. For years and years and years, the poor old keyboard player suffered and then your dad invented and developed the Moog, which had a sound that would cut through concrete, Wakeman tells Moog-Koussa. And guitarists hated it, because suddenly you could be louder than them if you wanted to be. So the greatest thing that Bob gave to keyboard players is the chance to truly express yourselves, because theres no point in expressing yourself if you cant be heard. Story continues Wakeman also reflects on how unassuming Moog was as a person. I really do think he was very surprised at his own success, he says. People would want to have their picture taken with him and he didnt quite get that. He didnt quite get that he was a bit of an icon. The release of the Wakeman clip coincides with an Indiegogo fundraising campaign for the docs final stages thats currently in progress. (An earlier fundraiser for the film met its goal on Kickstarter in 2016.) In addition to copies of the film in various formats along with copies of I Dream of Wires, a prior modular synth doc by Waveshaper Media, the team behind Electronic Voyager backers can also reserve copies of Electronic Voyages: Early Moog Recordings 1964-1969, a new limited-edition LP compilation thats exclusive to the campaign. The campaign is live through May 30th, and the film is scheduled for release in 2020. Sign up for Rolling Stones Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Sharon Stones acting career has spanned three decades, and shes going back to the role that started it all in a new photoshoot recreating her iconic Basic Instinct pose. The 61-year-old actress went topless (and pants-less) for a Vogue Portugal spread where she sat on a table with her legs spread open, calling to mind that infamous interrogation scene in the 1992 film. In the accompanying interview with Vogue Portugal, she revealed that she had to brand herself as a sex symbol in order to get work as an actress in Hollywood back when she was starting out. She explained that she strategically planned a Playboy photo shoot just as her breakout film Total Recall was released in 1990. When I entered the business, the term fable was used to see if you were employable, Stone told the magazine. The studio executives sat around a large table and discussed whether or not each of us was in fact fable. They thought I was not. I gave this some hard thought as I wanted to work, so I did a strategically planned semi-naked Playboy shoot. Did I fit the part? Obviously not. Did I use my brain to figure out how to appear fable? You bet But I didnt and dont (feel like a sex symbol). RELATED: Sharon Stone on Life as Single Mom of 3 and Why Shes No Longer Hoping for a Partner Branislav Simoncik/Vogue Portugal The Playboy shoot ultimately succeeded in getting the actress more work, as she was cast shortly thereafter in Basic Instinct, a role that was previously turned down by Michelle Pfeiffer and Demi Moore. As she looks back at her hit film, Stone said shes sick of talking about that role saying, I look at it as a scene in a movie I did 25 plus years ago. Other people have their own perspective. The mother of three became an international star following her role and went on to earn an Oscar nomination for her performance in Casino in 1995. Two college roommates studying at Texas State University were found dead by one of their friends around 9:30 a.m. on Sunday morning, May 5, according to a statement made by the San Marcos Police Department on its website. Authorities later identified the close friends as Connor Shannon, who was studying Electrical Engineering at the university, according to his Facebook page, and Matthew Pfluger. Before their deaths, the two lived together in a house in San Marcos, Texas, a suburb of Austin. After an initial investigation of the crime scene, police believe that Pfluger, 24, allegedly shot Shannon, 24, multiple times before attempting to kill himself with a knife. It was after the first alleged suicide attempt that Pfluger reportedly went into the backyard and shot himself in the head, authorities claim. Authorities have since notified the two mens next of kin about their respective deaths. Police note that this marks the second murder-suicide incident in San Marcos in 2019. Following Pfluger and Shannons passing, a friend of both deceased, Cheyenne Brazier, posted an online tribute to the former roommates. RELATED: Calif. Teen Killed by Controlling Boyfriend in Murder-Suicide as Mom Discovers Bodies in Yard My heart is so heavy right now, I wish this was all a dream right now, Braazier wrote on Facebook on May 5. Connor Shannon you always had my back and knew how to brighten anyones day! You always saw the good in everyone! You were my best friend and I love you so much! RIP you sweet soul! RELATED: Campus Murder Mystery: Who Killed 2 Students at a Famed College for the Hearing-Impaired? Brazier also commented on Pflugers death. She claimed the two men were were best friends/roommates/brothers in the comments of her Facebook post. RELATED: Dad Kills Mom in Murder-Suicide, and Baby Who Survived 2 Gunshots Is Found Crawling by Relative Story continues Matthew Pfluger you were one of my first friends when my family and I first moved to Austin, she went on to write in her Facebook post. You could make anyone laugh and were always such a goofball! You were like a big brother to me, even though I probably annoyed you 95% of the time! I love both of you so much and my prayers go out to both families suffering their loss! she continued. This world will not be the same without you guys. 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. Texas Man with Just a Week to Live Has One Dying Wish to Get His 11 Rescue Dogs Adopted A dying Texas mans final wish is getting his rescue dogs adopted. For the past couple of years, Richard Ewers has been taking in stray and abandoned dogs from around the San Antonio area, CBS-affiliate KWTX-TV reported. Over the course of his mission to provide the animals with a home, Ewers was diagnosed with stomach cancer, putting his selfless cause to a halt, according to the news station. He has since been admitted into hospice care and doctors have said he has a week to live. Since news of his condition broke, a plethora of animal rescuers and volunteers have rallied together to make Ewers dream become a reality. We are all very saddened by this, of course, and we want to make that last wish come true for him, Mary Oyler with Save Our Strays San Antonio told ABC-affiliate KSAT. Oyler explained she first became aware of Ewers story last year. At this time, 11 of Ewers 27 rescue dogs still need a home. They cant be here much longer, Oyler told KSAT. While Ewers remains in hospice care, Oyler said volunteers have been stopping by his home to feed and care for the dogs. RELATED: Severely Matted 7-Pound Dog Gets Rescue Makeover and Drops 2 Pounds of Filthy Fur Richard Ewers' dogs | KSAT If the dogs are not adopted, they will be picked up by the county, KSAT reported. It would add a lot more stress to what they are going through already, Oyler said. Not having Mr. Richard here, theres confusion, loneliness. Theres depression. In addition to the absence of Ewers, Oyler explained the conditions of his home are not exactly suitable for pets. RELATED: Search Dog, Flo, Finds Handler During Search And Rescue Training Theres no one to give them attention and love, Oyler told KSAT. There is no running water. There is no electricity. The conditions are just not ideal. In an effort to help Ewers furry children get adopted, a Facebook page called Helping Mr. Richard and His Dogs was created for anyone interested in adopting or fostering the remaining rescues. All theyve ever known is Mr. Richard. So, its going to require a family that will have a lot of patience, Oyler told KSAT. Theresa May is facing yet more pressure to stand down (Getty) Theresa May is facing yet more threats to her leadership as Tory backbenchers continue to air their dismay at the direction of the party. The Prime Minister is being warned that a Tory grassroots revolt will take place next month if she does not set out specifics on when she will pack her bags and leave Downing Street. The pressure on her position continued to mount as an official announcement about her failure to avoid European elections was quickly followed by continuing deadlock over Brexit talks with Labour. The Prime Minister is facing a Tory grass roots revolt over her leadership (Getty) Sir Graham Brady has faced angry calls from Tory backbenchers for "clarity" on Mrs May's timetable for standing down and triggering a leadership contest (Getty) Tory fury A Tory showdown will take place today as Sir Graham Brady, chairman of the 1922 committee of backbench MPs, reveals the outcome of his secret departure talks with Mrs May to his colleagues. Sir Graham has faced angry calls from backbenchers for "clarity" on Mrs May's timetable for standing down and triggering a leadership contest. The treasurer of the 1922 Committee, Sir Geoffrey Clifton-Brown, said he would back a grass roots bid to force Mrs May out with a no-confidence vote next month if she did not go of her own volition. Read more from Yahoo News UK: Murderer thought he would lose his arm as police dog bit him Second woman found dead in freezer in east London identified Couple die in Mongolia of bubonic plague after eating raw marmot The Tory MP for the Cotswolds said it was the Prime Minister's decision on when she should go but he would "absolutely" support grass roots moves to try to topple her in June if her departure date was not imminent. When asked what should happen if Mrs May failed to set out her own timetable for departure, he said: "It begins to get much more messy. "It would be much easier and I think the European elections would be much easier if she did set out her own timetable to go but it is up to her. "I think it's quite possible they (grass roots members) might vote for no-confidence in June. Mrs May has been told set out specifics on when she will pack her bags and leave Downing Street (Getty) Rule change? Senior Tory activists will consider the question of Mrs May's leadership at an emergency meeting of association chairmen - set for Saturday, June 15. Story continues Tory MPs are powerless to remove Mrs May following a failed bid to boot her out as leader in December last year, led by Tory MP Jacob Rees-Mogg - but the grass roots are calling for a rule change. The vote by members at an EGM of the National Conservative Convention would not be binding but would add pressure on Mrs May to quit if passed. Mrs May's exit would open a path for Boris Johnson to become Prime Minister (Getty) In a message to members of the convention, reported by the Conservative Home website, chairman Andrew Sharpe said they would be asked to vote on a motion stating "we no longer feel that Mrs May is the right person to continue as Prime Minister to lead us forward in the negotiations" and "therefore with great reluctance ask that she considers her position and resigns. Dinah Glover, a Tory activist whose petition triggered the EGM, told the i newspaper: "The party at the moment is in absolute meltdown because they are terrified she is going to do a deal which will do damage to our country. The Government has confirmed that the European elections will go ahead (Getty) Euro elections The news of more threats came as Mrs May officially accepted she cannot get her Brexit deal through Parliament in time to avoid European elections on May 23. Her effective deputy David Lidington confirmed the elections will go ahead, but said the Government was "redoubling our efforts" to get an EU Withdrawal Agreement ratified by the start of July so the MEPs elected this month never have to take their seats. Only hours later, shadow business secretary Rebecca Long-Bailey confirmed negotiations on a new Brexit deal that could win a parliamentary majority have still to bear fruit. "Nothing has been agreed yet," she said after a three-hour meeting, which she labelled "very robust. The PM is still hoping to strike a Brexit deal with Jeremy Corbyn (Getty) But Ms Long-Bailey said there had been no movement towards a customs union, temporary or otherwise, and would only say another referendum was "one of many options. She said: "We haven't had any movement or agreement on a customs union, certainly not today, but we will see what the rest of the week holds. "Our policy position has not changed since the last Labour conference, where a public vote was one of many options on the table, certainly to avoid a Tory deal, a bad Tory Brexit or a no-deal situation. "Certainly we've been exploring the issue of a confirmatory vote in these discussions, but as yet nothing has been agreed. A Downing Street spokesman added more talks were scheduled for Wednesday. JUBA, May 8 (Xinhua) -- A Chinese envoy on Wednesday said China will continue to provide assistance for the peace process in South Sudan. Hua Ning, Chinese Ambassador to South Sudan, said Beijing applauded the positive step taken by the parties with support from the East African regional bloc, the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) in partnership with the international community to reach progressive outcomes toward achieving sustainable peace. "For Chinese government it is happy to see very good outcome from the Addis Ababa meeting. We have witnessed that the relevant parties have reached consensus on the six month extension of the pre-transitional period to implement the revitalized peace agreement," Hua said. "We applaud the leading role IGAD has played and we also appreciate the contribution of the relevant international, regional organizations toward the peace process," he said during the two-day ministerial meeting organized by IGAD in Juba. The envoy urged the international community and stakeholders to provide assistance for the full realization of sustainable peace in the world's youngest nation, saying that the Chinese government will continue to render support to the peace process. Moon urged to create ecosystem to bolster private sector By Park Hyong-ki When President Moon Jae-in took office two years ago, he showed a stronger commitment than all his predecessors to tackle income inequality and unfavorable work conditions. His administration immediately carried out his key income-led growth policy, backing rapid rises in the country's minimum wage. This was increased by 16.4 percent in 2018, and 10.9 percent this year. Moon also pushed to legally enforce the 52-hour workweek system, given Koreans worked the third-longest hours per week after Mexicans and Costa Ricans. Also, inequality measured by the Gini coefficient stands at 0.355, which is above the OECD average of 0.317. A figure closer to 1 means a country has maximal inequality. "We need to give the President credit for showing the strongest commitment to reducing inequality and improving our working conditions among all administrations," said Hong Sung-guk, an independent economist. Four other foreign and domestic economists agreed with Hong. They said Moon kicked off his administration with the very best of intentions based on the fact that trickle-down economics led by the private sector has been repeatedly shown to have failed. Well-intended but unproductive But his good intentions did not produce the positive outcome he hoped for, beset further by external downside risks to the economy. "It was well-intended. However, sharp increases in the minimum wage acted as a deterrent to private sector hiring, which then contributed to rising unemployment," said Rajiv Biswas, chief economist at IHS Markit Asia in Singapore. The negative factors beginning with Moon's "well-intended" wage policy accumulated, resulting in a GDP contraction of 0.3 percent in the first quarter of this year. "They weren't the best policies to achieve growth. Then, we had the U.S.-China trade war, the hawkish U.S. Federal Reserve last year, and China's rapid deceleration," said Alicia Garcia-Herrero, chief economist at Natixis Asia in Hong Kong. Both Hong and KB Securities economist Kim Doo-un said the President should have gotten the private sector more involved to improve working conditions and inequality, despite the failure of trickle-down economics. "The lesson is that we cannot fix inequality without growth in the private sector. We should get every market player involved to simultaneously improve labor, boost output and pursue structural reform," Hong said. Kim said, "By all means, Koreans needed a much-needed break from working long hours. But now, we face slow output," citing declining private investment and confidence. Besides internal odds weighing on the economy, they said the U.S.-China trade conflict remains the biggest external risk, regardless of whether the two sides settle their dispute and reach an agreement this week. This is because of the unpredictable nature of the United States and China. "Given the danger that the U.S.-China trade war could again escalate, Korea remains vulnerable to further shocks to its exports, which have already been hit by weaker demand in China and a slowdown in global electronics orders," Biswas said. With weakening semiconductors and global trade protectionism, Yoon Chang-yong, chief economist at Shinhan Investment, said, "Korea will barely be able to grow above 2 percent this year." His view comes in spite of the government's 6.7 trillion won ($5.8 billion) supplementary budget aimed at rebuilding fire-scarred areas in Gangwon Province and supporting small- and medium-sized enterprises. A new hope Despite headwinds clouding the future prospects of the economy, they said there is a silver lining. President Moon's economic team has signaled a change in its policy to boost innovation in the private sector, as well as support fair competition and achieve inclusive growth. It seeks to help develop and foster 10 unicorn startups valued at more than $1 billion every year in an effort to create new industries and new jobs. The economists say the country can use its strength in fifth-generation (5G) telecommunications networks integrated with artificial intelligence (AI) and big data to build a smart city ecosystem. "The government can encourage young entrepreneurs to create an ecosystem in this area. There are lots of business opportunities in developing countries," Biswas said. There are eight unicorn startups as of April this year, according to the Ministry of Economy and Finance. The ministry said it seeks to support startups in financial technology, AI, big data, clean energy and smart factory automation, while backing big companies such as Samsung Electronics in developing non-memory chips. Also, one of the most important positive achievements during President Moon's first two years was restarting talks with North Korea and reducing military tensions here, the economists say. This has reduced geopolitical risks. "Things should get better for South Korea with North Korea, the United States and China engaged," Garcia-Herrero said. Val Kilmer says he never stole from an artist and calls the lawsuit over a golden tumbleweed sculpture nothing more than an attempt to harass him. According to court documents obtained by The Blast, Kilmer is firing back at Bale Creek Allen, who claims the Top Gun star ripped off his gold-colored tumbleweed sculptures when [] Val Kilmer Val Kilmer says he never stole from an artist and calls the lawsuit over a golden tumbleweed sculpture nothing more than an attempt to harass him. According to court documents obtained by The Blast, Kilmer is firing back at Bale Creek Allen, who claims the Top Gun star ripped off his gold-colored tumbleweed sculptures when he made an identical one and sold it for $150,000. The actor denies all allegations of ripping off the man and demands the lawsuit be thrown out of court. Kilmer says he specifically denies that he has infringed or is liable for infringement of any purported copyright held by Mr. Allen. He argues the artists work lacks the requisite originality for copyright protection and says if Kilners artwork looked similar, its not something that can be copyrighted. Kilmer continues, Mr. Allens claims are barred because of his misuse of copyright by filing unmeritorious and sham claims in the Complaint to use his purported copyright to secure an exclusive right or monopoly not granted by the copyright office, contrary to public policy, doing so with anticompetitive intent and effect and with the intent and effect of harassing Mr. Kilmer. He is demanding the whole case be thrown out immediately and wants the artist to pay his legal bills. RELATED Val Kilmer Confirms He Is Officially Suiting Up for Top Gun: Maverick Bale Creek Allen claims to have been selling gold colored tumbleweed sculptures for years in art galleries around Texas and New Mexico. Allen said at one point, Val Kilmer even approached him about buying the work but eventually said he couldnt afford it. The artist says he then discovered Kilmer selling a knock off of his work for $150,000. In 2016, Kilmer made one piece which he claimed to have dipped in 22k gold and bronzed. He put it up for sale at a Los Angeles boutique. Once he discovered the alleged knock-off, he reached out to Kilmer demanding he stop selling it but never heard back. He sued seeking unspecified damages and a court order prohibiting the actor from selling any art that infringed on his copyrights. Allen had been having trouble locating Kilmer and even accused the actor of purposely hiding where he lives to avoid being served with legal papers. He was finally able to serve him with the legal docs when Kilmer was the host of a Q&A at a screening of one of his plays in San Diego. The post Val Kilmer Denies Ripping Off Artist With Golden Tumbleweed Sculpture, Accuses Man of Harassing Him appeared first on The Blast. Did Uber (UBER) make the right move when it exited the worlds most populous markets? Financially, the answer seems to be yes for Uber, which makes its public debut on Friday, May 10. The deals have spared Uber from losing billions of dollars and so far they have been sound investments, according to the ride-hailing companys IPO filing. Uber has already seen some gains from its exit deals with local players, including Chinas Didi Chuxing and Russias Yandex. Those minority stakes, including 15% in Didi Chuxing, 23% of Singapore-based Grab and 38% of Yandex taxi, collectively contributed $12.5 billion to Ubers valuation. But the unusual arrangements also leave Uber competing with its own investments as regional leaders in the industry expand and look for new opportunities to grow. While Lyft (LYFT) which reported first-quarter revenue that topped expectations on May 7 operates only in the U.S. and Canada, Uber is a global transportation empire operating in over 63 countries. The international market is crucial to the companys growth markets outside the U.S. account for approximately 74% of all trips booked on its platform in the last quarter of 2018. As Uber is getting a bigger share of the global ride-hailing business, which Grand View Research projects to be worth $11.94 billion by 2025, it will inevitably be battling for market share with companies that it owns minority stakes in. The San Francisco-based startup expanded abroad in 2011 at a stunning growth rate. Uber launched in a new city each day by the end of 2014. The expansion sent Ubers valuation ballooning, but not all of its overseas endeavors have panned out very well. Ride-share wars and Softbanks role Uber competes against Didi around the world, and we have it mapped out. After years of cash burn in China, Russia and Southeast Asia, Uber exited those markets in exchange for minority stakes in local players there. The deals prohibited Uber from running its own service in those markets for a few years, but the battle continues elsewhere as Didi and Yandex grow in markets where Uber is present. However, Ubers deal with Didi is still pending the approval from the Chinese government after more than two years. Story continues Now, Uber and Didi are in a face-off in Mexico, Brazil, and Australia. And in some European countries Uber is taking on Yandex. These companies have expanded their offerings, and we expect them to continue to expand their offerings in the future, to compete with us in various markets throughout the world, Ubers IPO prospectus said. Didi, for example, is competing with Uber not just by itself, but also through a proxy war. Didi has backed Ubers rivals in major markets, from Indias Ola, Europes Taxify, Brazils 99, and a $100 million investment in Lyft on Ubers home turf. In 2017, Didi also invested in Careem, the Dubai-based ride-hailing service that was acquired by Uber at $3.1 billion in March. The structure also highlights the vital role of Softbank, the investor that has spun a ride-hailing web across the world. Softbank is behind Didi, Uber, and Grab, and is believed to have helped Uber negotiate its exit deals. SoftBank has a lot of say in what they do as a strategic investor in all of them, and I don't think it's good for Softbank, for them to compete with each other, Zeke Hernandez, an assistant professor in management at the Wharton School of Business, told Yahoo Finance. Whats good for Softbank is what's happening now, each one is dominant in a certain region of the world. This article was originally published on April 15. Krystal Hu covers technology and China for Yahoo Finance. Write to her viakrystalh@yahoofinance.com Note: the Read more: China builds the worlds longest high-speed rail as a rail stalls in the U.S. Apple cuts iPhone XR price for partner sellers in China Amazon eyes closed Sears stores for Whole Foods expansion California health care union protests Joe Biden fundraiser originally appeared on abcnews.go.com A health care union in California held a protest at a fundraiser for former Vice President and current Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden held at the home of a board member for Kaiser Permanente in Los Angeles on Wednesday. A small group of members from the National Union of Healthcare Workers -- which represents 3,500 mental health clinicians who work for Kaiser Permanente in Californiastood outside the home of Cynthia Telles, a member of the Kaiser Foundation Hospitals and Kaiser Foundation Health Plan boards of directors, to protest long wait times for patients to receive follow-up care and fight inequities between mental health care and medical health care with Kaiser Permanente. "Our patients are waiting six to eight weeks for a follow up. Many of our patients are suicidal. Many of our patients are severely depressed and to wait six to eight weeks is a travesty," Eric Pierce, a clinician for Kaiser Permanente told ABC News Wednesday. PHOTO: Former Vice President and Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden speaks at a rally with members of a painters and construction union, Tuesday, May 7, 2019, in Henderson, Nev. (AP Photo/John Locher) Union President Sal Rosselli told ABC News Tuesday that his members hope Biden, who has been an advocate for mental health care, will support the union's position. "We want to shed more light on the inadequacies of mental health care at Kaiser to frankly force the corporation into, again, doing it right -- offer mental health care at the same level as medical care. And we're hoping the vice president will help us accomplish that." (MORE: Sanders pushes back against Biden's claim he's the 'most progressive' candidate in the Democratic field) Kaiser Permanente and the National Union of Healthcare Workers have been in active bargaining for nearly a year, according to a statement released by the company. In December, 4,000 Kaiser mental health employees walked off the job for five days, striking over understaffing that led to long wait times for patients. Story continues A Kaiser Permanente representative issued a statement to the press at the event responding to the protests. "This is a publicity stunt by union leadership disguised as a bargaining tactic aimed at disrupting a board members event," John Nelson, Vice President of Communications for Kaiser said in a statement. "We remain committed to reaching a fair agreement in the best interest of all, one that advances our goal of leading the country in mental health services. However, todays stunt does nothing to help reach an agreement, nothing to improve mental health care and nothing to build trust and mutual respect. It only makes it harder for us to achieve our common goals." Wednesday's protest comes on the heels of several union-centric events Biden has held as he kicks off his 2020 candidacy. A large part of Biden's campaign message has focused on the middle class, and the unions' roles in creating it. Biden's first public event as a candidate took place at a union hall in Pittsburgh on April 29. That same day, Biden was endorsed by the International Association of Fire Fighters, whose members came out to support Biden during stops in Iowa and Pennsylvania. But Biden could have a hard time winning over another health care union--National Nurses United, which has 150,000 members nationwide, and is the largest union and professional association of registered nurses, has come out in strong support of creating a Medicare-for-All healthcare system in the United States. Biden told ABC's "Good Morning America" Co-Anchor Robin Roberts that he favors strengthening the Affordable Care Act and providing a Medicare-for-all option A spokesperson for the National Nurses United union, Mercy Albaran, told ABC News that the union will "support any candidates that will fight for Medicare for all." PHOTO: Former Vice President and Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden speaks at a rally with members of a painters and construction union, Tuesday, May 7, 2019, in Henderson, Nev. (AP Photo/John Locher) Rosselli says it's Biden's past comments on mental health, not his union ties, that he hopes will convince the vice president to support their cause. "It's not just about the union part. The quote on our leaflet is a quote from him, which is, 'A majority of Americans, including children in this country, need mental health care and they're not getting it,'" Rosselli said. "I would say to Vice President Biden if I had an opportunity, 'Nine million Californians who have Kaiser Permanente insurance are paying their monthly premiums and they're not getting the care that they're paying for." (MORE: 2020 presidential candidate Joe Biden appeals to labor unions, blue collar workers at rally) But Piece hoped Bidens ties would help him see the bigger picture of the protests. "Joe said 'I'm a union man.' Mr. Vice President, Im a union man too, but you know as a union man that unions are for the communities they work in and work for -- theyre not just for the membership. Theyre for the community. So I ask Mr. Vice President to join us, help us advocate with Cynthia Telles to help the community we serve," Pierce said. Rosselli tells ABC News that the union made several attempts to reach out to the Biden campaign, but received no response. Biden did not address the protests during his remarks at the fundraiser and the Biden campaign declined to comment for this story. Huawei executive to fight extradition to the US on charges of bank, wire fraud (ABC News) Huawei executive to fight extradition to the US on charges of bank, wire fraud originally appeared on abcnews.go.com Chinese tech giant Huawei will fight the extradition of its chief financial officer and deputy chairwoman Meng Wanzhou to the United States, where she would face criminal charges, after she appeared in a Canadian court on Wednesday. U.S. prosecutors have charged Meng, Huawei Technologies and two Huawei affiliates -- Huawei Device USA and Skycom Tech -- with 13 counts related to bank and wire fraud and conspiracies to commit bank and wire fraud. The charges stem from an alleged long-running scheme by Meng and other Huawei officials to deceive global banks and the U.S. government in order to do business with Iran, thereby circumventing American sanctions, U.S. authorities said. (MORE: US levels criminal charges against Chinese tech giant Huawei and top exec) PHOTO: A person holds a sign supporting the extradition of Huawei's Financial Chief Meng Wanzhou outside of British Columbia Supreme Court building in Vancouver, Canada, May 8, 2019. (Lindsey Wasson/Reuters) After a pre-extradition procedural hearing on Wednesday in the British Columbia Supreme Court in Vancouver, a representative for Meng called the case against her "political" and said that her arrest in Canada on behalf of the U.S. was "unlawful." "From the beginning, Huawei has expressed extreme confidence in Ms. Meng's innocence. We have maintained that her U.S.-ordered arrest was an unlawful abuse of process -- one guided by political considerations and tactics, not by the rule of law," said Benjamin Howes, vice president of media affairs for Huawei Canada, outside the courthouse following the hearing. The U.S. Justice Department's case against Meng is based on allegations that are "simply untrue," and Meng's business was conducted transparently with full knowledge of the banking officials who told prosecutors they were deceived, Howes said. Howes argued that the extradition request is invalid because Meng's actions were not illegal in both Canada and the U.S. PHOTO: A man burns a Chinese flag to protest human rights abuses outside a British Columbia Supreme Court where Huawei Chief Financial Officer Meng Wanzhou appeared for an extradition hearing in Vancouver, March 6, 2019. (Jason Redmond/AFP/Getty Images, FILE) (MORE: Huawei CFO arrested in Canada on behalf of US authorities) Story continues Meng's legal troubles come at a tense time for the relationship between the U.S. and China. Stalled trade talks were kicked into high gear earlier this week when President Trump threatened additional tariffs on more than $200 billion in goods from China. Then on Wednesday, Trump tweeted a theory that the Chinese were dragging out a deal in hopes of negotiating with a new president after 2020. "The reason for the China pullback & attempted renegotiation of the Trade Deal is the sincere HOPE that they will be able to 'negotiate' with Joe Biden or one of the very weak Democrats, and thereby continue to ripoff the United States (($500 Billion a year)) for years to come..." Trump tweeted. The reason for the China pullback & attempted renegotiation of the Trade Deal is the sincere HOPE that they will be able to negotiate with Joe Biden or one of the very weak Democrats, and thereby continue to ripoff the United States (($500 Billion a year)) for years to come.... Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) May 8, 2019 Huawei also claims that the case is political, based on comments Trump made about intervening in Meng's case if he thought it would help trade talks. If I think its good for what will be certainly the largest trade deal ever made which is a very important thing whats good for national security I would certainly intervene if I thought it was necessary, Trump told Reuters in December. Late on Wednesday in Beijing, a statement on the Chinese Commerce Ministrys website warned of retaliation if Trump followed through with tariffs as Chinas trade negotiator headed to the U.S. to resume talks on Thursday. (MORE: Reports Huawei to supply UK networks draw criticism) PHOTO: Then-Homeland Security Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen announces new criminal charges against Chinese telecommunications giant Huawei at the Department of Justice, Jan. 28, 2019 in Washington. (Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images, FILE) An escalation in trade frictions is not in line with the American or Chinese interests or the interests of the world, and would thus be much to Chinas regret. But if the U.S. goes ahead with its tariff measures against China, China will have to resort to necessary countermeasures, part of the Chinese-language statement said. Meanwhile, Beijing has accused two Canadians of spying and detained them without access to their families or lawyers. China has also sentenced a third man to death on drug charges since Meng's arrest in Canada. Meng is the daughter of Huawei's 74-year-old founder, Ren Zhengfei and his presumptive successor to one of the most powerful companies in China, and in the world. Meng's lawyer responded to requests for comment from ABC News. ABC News' Meridith McGraw and Ben Gittleson contributed to this report. Pompeo cancels trip to Greenland for meetings on Iran, North Korea originally appeared on abcnews.go.com Two days after Secretary of State Mike Pompeo cut a stop from his trip to Germany, his office announced that he was canceling another visit -- this time to Greenland, where Pompeo was to see melting glaciers at the forefront of climate change. Pompeo had to "postpone" his visit because of "a need for the Secretary to be in Washington, D.C. today," according to State Department spokesperson Morgan Ortagus. A senior State Department official said Pompeo decided to return early to Washington for Iran-related meetings, and after Kim Jong Un's regime test fired missiles Thursday, North Korea will also be discussed, the official said. The Trump administration has sought to send a message of strength to Iran after it said intelligence indicated an "imminent" and "escalatory" threat from Iran and its proxies to U.S. personnel in Iraq. Pompeo skipped his meetings in Berlin with Chancellor Angela Merkel and Foreign Minister Heiko Maas to press Iraqi leadership on the importance of guaranteeing Americans' safety and reining in Iranian-backed Shiite militias in the country. The long-planned Greenland visit was supposed to be part of a renewed push by Pompeo to assert American leadership in the Arctic and warn of Chinese influence. But that effort was overshadowed by Pompeo's comments on climate change while in Finland Monday -- seeming to welcome the melting Arctic ice as a good economic opportunity. "Steady reductions in sea ice are opening new passageways and new opportunities for trade," he said during a speech on the sidelines of the Arctic Council summit. "Arctic sea lanes could come before -- could [become] the 21st Century Suez and Panama Canals." (MORE: Climate change will severely affect US economy, particularly in Midwest: Report) In Greenland, Pompeo would have witnessed firsthand how the rapid melt of glaciers has had devastating consequences and how the U.S. government, despite President Donald Trump's dismissal of climate change, has deployed U.S. military personnel to assist in studying it. Story continues (MORE: Mike Pompeo makes last-minute trip to Iraq, amid heightened tensions with Iran) Pompeo will reschedule the visit when possible, and the U.S. will begin work to reestablish a permanent diplomatic presence in Greenland, Ortagus added. "We will work together with Congress and Denmark to make this happen as soon as possible," she said. Greenland is an autonomous territory of Denmark. Pompeo was scheduled to meet a unit from the New York Air National Guard that deployed to Greenland last month to support scientists doing climate research. The mission uses ski-equipped aircraft to transport fuel, cargo, and passengers to various research camps throughout Greenland, according to the U.S. Air Force, as National Science Foundation researchers study Greenland's ice cap and its thaw. Pompeo had no scheduled meeting with the Nation Science Foundation scientists themselves. In annual assessments, the Pentagon has declared climate change is a national security threat. But Pompeo was more dismissive of the issue in his speech in Finland, not mentioning the words "climate change" and dismissing international efforts to regulate global emissions. "Collective goals, even when well-intentioned, are not always the answer. They're rendered meaningless, even counterproductive, as soon as one nation fails to comply," he said during the Arctic Council summit Tuesday. Pompeo has said he believes humans are contributing to a warming planet, but that international agreements are a poor way to deal with that issue and instead are too costly to the U.S. To that end, the U.S. also objected to a joint declaration by the Council that included references to the Paris climate accord. The historic agreement, signed in 2016, set targets for each country to reduce its carbon emissions, but President Trump has initiated U.S. withdrawal from the pact. Instead of a joint declaration, the Council signed a shorter joint statement that made no mention of climate change, instead saying participants reaffirmed "our commitment to... sustainable development and to the protection of the Arctic environment." Foreign Minister Timo Soini of Finland, the current chair of the Arctic Council, expressed disappointment that, "The declaration in a traditional way was not possible this time," but he declined to "name and blame anybody... It is clear that the climate issues are different from the different viewpoints and from the different capitals." A senior State Department official briefing reporters called reports about the U.S. position "fake news." "Just because you don't have a certain phrase in it, you can't infer that the United States has taken some sort of position that's anti environment," the official said. They went further and seemed to dismiss climate change itself: "It's a truism that climate changes," the official told reporters. Pompeo has instead touted the United States's reduction in carbon emissions, saying Monday between 2006 and 2017, U.S. emissions fell 14% "through scientific work, through technology, through building out safe and secure energy infrastructure, and through our economic growth, and doing it in a way that doesn't stifle development with burdensome regulations that only create more risk to the environment." But those emissions also came because of the energy regulations that the Obama administration had put in place, including setting higher fuel efficiency standards for cars, settings limits on oil and gas drilling, and more, according to environmental groups. Good Morning America Duchess Kate surprised royal-watchers by showing off her piano skills at a Christmas concert Friday. The Duchess of Cambridge joined Tom Walker for a performance of "For Those Who Can't Be Here" during the concert, "Together at Christmas," which was televised in the U.K. The duet was recorded at Westminster Abbey on Thursday, according to Town and Country magazine. Kate, 39, organized the concert, which also featured performances by Leona Lewis and Ellie Goulding, to show her gratitude to community leaders in the U.K. She added in her introduction that she also wanted to "recognize those whose struggles perhaps have been less visible, too." US seized N. Korean ship accused of violating UN sanctions originally appeared on abcnews.go.com The United States has seized a North Korean cargo ship that had been operating in violation of United Nations sanctions, federal prosecutors will announce Thursday. PHOTO: A ship is pictured in this photo released by the U.S. Attorney's office for the Southern District of New York. (US Attorney's office for the Southern District of New York) The United States seized Wise Honest, a bulk carrier that strayed into Indonesian waters last April, flying a flag from Sierra Leone. The Indonesian Navy detained the ship, inspected it and discovered a crew of 25 North Koreans along with a cargo hold full of coal. The ship is part of a fleet of ghost vessels that North Korea has been using to flout sanctions and export millions of dollars worth of coal. According to a recent report from the U.N. Security Council, the proceeds help finance North Koreas nuclear weapons program. North Korea launches projectiles for 2nd time in week, South Korea says The nuclear and ballistic missile (programs) of the Democratic People s Republic of Korea remain intact and the country continues to defy Security Council resolutions through a massive increase in illegal ship-to-ship transfers of petroleum products and coal, the UN Security Council report said. PHOTO: A ship is pictured in this photo released by the U.S. Attorney's office for the Southern District of New York. (US Attorney's office for the Southern District of New York) North Korea disguises ships like Wise Honest by painting fake names on the hulls, stealing identification numbers from other ships and by making ship-to-ship transfers of coal at sea, to avoid inspections at ports. Pentagon suspends efforts to retrieve remains of US troops from North Korea In addition to evading sanctions, the Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea and its maritime fleet are systematically violating the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, routinely engaging in double-flagging and providing safe (harbor) for hijacked ships, the UN report said. The U.S. seizure comes amid rising tensions between the U.S. and North Korea, which fired two suspected short-range missiles in its second launch in five days. Viking Cruises faces class-action lawsuit after high-seas nightmare off Norway originally appeared on abcnews.go.com Viking Cruises is facing a class-action lawsuit from passengers after a harrowing evacuation in high seas in March. A cruise ship operated by the Swiss company suffered an engine failure off the coast of Norway on March 23, leaving more than 1,300 people stranded in rough seas. One passenger posted a video to social media showing the ship, The Viking Sky, tilting back and forth, sending furniture sliding across the room. Twenty people suffered minor injuries during the ordeal, according to Viking Cruises. Norwegian rescue teams in helicopters battled severe winds that day to airlift hundreds of passengers from The Viking Sky. The vessel regained power the following morning and continued on with the remaining passengers and crew to the Norwegian port of Molde, where it docked safely. "We have already begun our internal investigation and our goal is to establish a complete and thorough understanding of what happened," Viking Cruises, which has its worldwide headquarters in Los Angeles, told ABC News in a statement on March 24. "We welcome the investigations that have been launched, and will fully support them." A New Jersey couple, Axel and Lauren Freudmann, among those on board, filed a class-action lawsuit in the Los Angeles County Superior Court on Wednesday, individually and on behalf of other passengers, claiming that the cruise line "negligently sailed through notoriously perilous waters into the path of a bomb cyclone," despite severe weather warnings. (MORE: Viking Cruises engine failure off Norway coast prompts rescue operation for 1,300 people on board) PHOTO: The cruise ship Viking Sky arrives at port off Molde, Norway, Sunday March 24, 2019, after having problems and issuing a Mayday call on Saturday in heavy seas off Norway's western coast. (Svein Ove Ekornesvag/NTB scanpix via AP) According to the lawsuit, weather forecasts warned of "an intense cyclone" as early as March 16 that would threaten the waters off of western Norway on March 23 and 24. The forecasts predicted "extremely severe wind gusts" that could exceed 75 mph per hour, the suit states, yet The Viking Sky set sail from Tromso, Norway, on March 21. Story continues "After the vessel left Tromso, Norway, the passengers were not informed of the severity of the weather system the cruise was intending on sailing into," the lawsuit states. "Passengers had no idea they were being subjected to a historic winter weather event." The ship's engines, which were "negligently maintained and/or were not adequately fit for such conditions," shut down in an area called Hustadvika, "which is known for its notoriously perilous waters dotted with jagged reefs and is considered one of the most dangerous parts of the Norwegian coastline," according to the lawsuit. The unmoored vessel was "battered and tossed as it was pushed dangerously close towards the hazardous reefs," while terrified passengers on board were "tossed about like ragdolls," the suit states. "You really have the worst-case scenario, which is a vessel being without power, in the middle of a storm, subject to the mercy of 30-, 40-, 50-foot waves, hurricane-force winds," Michael Winkleman, one of the attorneys representing the passengers in the case, told ABC News in an interview airing Thursday on "Good Morning America." The passengers are seeking $10 million in damages from Viking Cruises, according to Winkleman. The cruise line did not immediately respond to ABC News' request for comment Thursday. The lawsuit claims the passengers were subjected to "hours of terror, unsanitary conditions, lack of ventilation and trauma" as the cruise line attempted to launch a "high-risk evacuation," airlifting more than 400 people hundreds of feet into a helicopter amid hurricane-force winds. "Passengers, fearing for their lives, held onto whatever they could find while water rushed in through numerous other areas of the vessel," the suit states. "Furniture was overturned and tossed throughout the vessel; broken glass littered all levels of the vessel; elevators were inoperable; waves crashed through open and/or shattered balcony doors." (MORE: Viking Cruises ship docks safely in Norway after major rescue efforts) PHOTO: Shannon Flewelling, a passenger on the Viking Sky, says her husband is still in a recovery center after he contracted the flu in the wake of the ship's engine troubles in late March. (ABC News) Daniel and Shannon Flewelling, a Connecticut couple who joined the class-action lawsuit, said the ordeal took a physical and emotional toll that continues to haunt them. "We were in a situation where moment to moment, we didn't know if we would make it," Shannon Flewelling told ABC News in an interview airing Thursday on "GMA." The couple said they both came down with the flu within days of arriving home. Daniel Flewelling suffered complications and has been hospitalized ever since. He is still on a respiration and feeding tube and was recently moved to a hospital for acute care and rehabilitation, his wife said. Doctors now say he could make a full recovery but it could take up to a year. "I've spent almost the last four weeks of my life using up all my sick time and my vacation being by his side for weeks, not knowing if he was going to make it or not," Shannon Flewelling told ABC News. "He is self-employed, but we don't have that income right now." Raise your hand if your parents love sharing the most embarrassing stories about you. Hard same. Whether its the time I woke up in the middle of the night and accidentally threw up on one of my best friends or how my ears used to be (or might still be) too big for my head, the teasing is relentless. Joking aside, there are moments when my mom and dad share stories from the past that I actually want them to tell again and again. With May being Asian Pacific American Heritage Month, we figured there was no better time to share incredible tales of immigration, cultural traditions, and more from families around the country. Regardless of your background, each life experience below will make you appreciate your loved ones more deeply and help you see how much they look out for you. Super superstitious. Isis Briones Parents: Gino and Vernie Briones Child: Isis Briones My parents always had the strangest explanations for everything, because Filipinos are some of the most superstitious people youll ever meet. Sometimes, my parents would use superstitions to explain why they were making a certain decision or disciplining my brother and me, but their stories often seemed suspect. For instance, putting my purse on the floor will apparently make me poor in the future. At the same time, my mom was a germophobe and hated anything touching the ground. She would also say that watching television at night makes people go blind (in that case, though, she might have been rightI was wearing eyeglasses by the second grade). My mom may have been spot on about avoiding late-night programs, but thats often not the case. Most of the time, her and my dads superstitions arent based on fact. Plus, they spend a good amount of time trying to predict peoples deaths. (Yes, you read that right.) The night before my 18th birthday, my mom pulled me aside and pointed out that I was all grown up. Then, she started staring at my toes. When I asked her why she was doing that, she casually replied, Since your second toe is bigger than your big one, Im going to die before you. Another time, my dad was taking a photo of me and my two best friends. As soon as he hit the button, he calmly warned one of my besties that among the three of us, she was going to die first because she was in the middle of our picture. Story continues Fortunately, not every superstition is about death. My mom has never missed the chance to cook me the popular Filipino noodle dish called pancit. Its known in our culture to bring the celebrant good luck and a long life. When I have kids, I think that might be the only superstition Ill pass on to them. Life was harder back then. Amy Ha Parent: Bong Ha Child: Amy Ha I escaped from Vietnam and built a life for myself at the age of 16, Vietnamese immigrant Bong Ha shared with HelloGiggles. Even though it was difficult to leave her beloved country behind, she now runs her own successful nail salon and couldnt be happier with how things turned out. Whenever her two daughters are complaining, Ha likes to remind them of her former struggles, which she hopes encourages them to power through and stay positive. I did so much to make sure we have a good life, she said. I also do what I can to ensure they have everything they need to succeed and more. Make sure you get along with everyone. Joshua Palma Parent: Gilgaya Palma Child: Joshua Palma The Golden Rule is a concept that plenty of parents want their children to learn, but this Southeast Asian mom had a unique way of emphasizing it to her son. A few years ago, my mom had a friend who booked an emergency trip to the Philippines, Filipino American Joshua Palma told HG. His moms female friend was having extreme stomach pains, and she trusted only her witch doctor in the Philippines to fix the problem. (ICYMI, Filipinos are very superstitious.) When the friend arrived to the remote village where her medicine woman lived, she was asked if shed recently wronged anyone. Quickly, she confessed that shed started a fight with a colleague at work, and then was told to gulp down a special drink. As soon as his moms friend finished, she allegedly spit out a coin and her symptoms were gone. Whether you believe this tale or not, the moral of the story is to treat others the way you want to be treatedor bad things will happen. Keep your faith in the face of oppression. Ruel Rodriguez Parent: Ruel Rodriguez Children: Hannah and Jannae Rodriguez To make ends meet, one Filipino American husband recalled the time he took a computer programming job in Saudi Arabia while the rest of his family was still living in the Philippines. Despite being able to save up for his daughters future, he sacrificed being able to freely practice his Christian religion. I went to jail multiple times during my time in Saudi, Ruel Rodriguez disclosed to us. He was eventually released and now continues to tell this story as a pastor at his local church. He loves retelling it to others in the hopes of instilling the importance of having faith in the face of oppression. Food is life and love. Danielle Pobre Parent: Margaret Pobre Child: Danielle Pobre Have you ever been to a party hosted by Asians or Pacific Islanders without food? Never. Thats because flavor isnt the only thing youll find in these countries dishes. Like in the beloved movie Crazy Rich Asians, cooking and making sure a family member has eaten are the main ways of letting them know you love them. Nicks and Rachels mothers show love through food, prescribing herbal soup for tiredness and ginseng tea for heartbreak, Inocencio Smith wrote in The Atlantic. In the scene when the Youngs are making dumplings together, we get to see a softer, more down-to-earth side of the family and the teamwork that brings them together. For Chinese American Danielle Pobre, learning her mothers recipes was how the two cultivated a relationship. I couldnt wait to get home and see what my mom made for dinner, she reminisced to HelloGiggles. She may live halfway across the country, but we continue to exchange tips for the kitchen and I always think of our family any time I make her delicious meals. Having a pleasant flight experience can make a great start or end to a trip, but sometimes, unexpected incidents like cancellations or delays can occur. In some of these instances, passengers are entitled to compensation, which is where AirHelp comes in to assist passengers with claiming compensation when delays, cancellation, and denied boarding instances occur. Besides offering its services to assist with real-time claims, the air passenger rights company has also been ranking the top airlines based on service quality, on-time performance, and claim processing since 2015 as part of its AirHelp Score rankings. AirHelp uses data from its database of flight statistics in combination with thousands of customer opinions and experience company representatives have working on claims for 10 million passengers to create the ranking each year, with various factors considered when it comes to claim processing. These include the percentage of an airlines claims that were ignored or wrongfully rejected, the total time it takes an airline to acknowledge and process a claim, and the time it takes for the airlines to pay the compensation after a claim is approved. %image1 When it comes to airlines that best tackle claim processing, Scandinavian Airlines came in at first place. Canada's WestJet followed close behind in second place. Two U.S. airlines also made it into the top five, including American Airlines which took third place, and United Airlines, which came in at fifth place for airlines that best handle claim processing. Getty Images Brussels Airlines rounded out the top five airlines when it comes to processing claims, coming in at fourth place. Several of these airlines also ranked in the top five best airlines overall, based on claim processing, on-time performance, and service quality. These include American Airlines, which ranked second place overall, and Scandinavian Airlines in fourth place. Qatar Airways took the top spot thanks to its consistency in effective claims processing and its punctuality, according to AirHelp representatives. Story continues David Taylor-Bramley/Getty Images To rank the best airlines overall, Airhelp looked at the number of flights departing within 15 minutes of a published departure time and arriving within 15 minutes of a published arrival time, and asked passengers to rank service factors like aircraft comfort, helpfullness of crew, and food selections. The top five airlines overall also include Aeromexico in third place and Qantas in fifth place, with both airlines scoring high on their quality of service and claim processing. AirHelp also ranked the top airports based on service quality, food and shop offerings, and on-time performance. The top five airports include Qatars Hamad International Airport, Japans Tokyo International Airport (commonly known as Haneda Airport), Greeces Athens International Airport, Brazils Afonso Pena International Airport, and Polands Gdansk Lech Walesa Airport. By Kim Bo-eun AIA Group CEO Ng Keng Hooi met SK Group Chairman Chey Tae-won in Seoul, Thursday, to seek cooperation in the area of corporate social responsibility (CSR), AIA Korea said Thursday. The Korean unit of the global insurance firm said that the leaders discussed ideas and opportunities for bilateral projects in the future. The meeting was held as the two companies are conducting a joint project, and their leaders share a corporate philosophy based on social values. AIA Korea, SK Telecom and SK Holdings are in a partnership in operating AIA Vitality X T Health Walking, an application which seeks to improve public health through encouraging people to walk more. The number of subscribers to the application exceeded 1 million as of April. Ng invested in a shared value-creating business model at the life insurance group, which is designed to benefit consumers, companies, partners and local communities. Chey, meanwhile, has shown continued interest in CSR. He spoke about the role of corporations in pursuing sustainable social values at the Davos Forum in Switzerland earlier this year. "The meeting between the two CEOs was a valuable opportunity for the two companies to discuss ways to collaborate in contributing to local communities and creating social values in Korea and other Asian countries where they operate their businesses," an AIA spokesman said. "With both CEOs sincerely looking to share social values with all stakeholders, we hope to put forward more proactive action plans for the future." The AIA Group CEO, based in Hong Kong, made a two-day visit to Seoul for meetings with the life insurers' local executives and staff. Yahoo Life Videos Every year children around the world head to sleep on Christmas Eve in anticipation of Santa's arrival to deliver gifts under their trees. But as he takes flight in his sleigh, a team at the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) work all hours of the night to make sure that he is protected and on track. Lieutenant Colonel Drew Frey of the U.S. Air Force is one of those people who works tirelessly to keep track of Santa and his reindeer, while also taking calls from kids wondering when they might expect the man in the red suit. According to Frey, it's a job that NORAD has been dedicated to since 1955. "A child saw a phone number in the Sears catalog that was misprinted that called the continental air defense command," he explains to Yahoo Life. "Luckily they had a commander on shift who recognized that this child wants to speak to Santa and took it as such and answered the child's questions." Three teens who were caught wearing blackface at an Illinois gas station alledgedly attend Lincoln-Way High School. (Photo: Courtesy of Twitter) Illinois police officers and authorities at a local school district are addressing the states second blackface scandal of the past month, in which three teenage students were spotted wearing blackface in public. The Mokena Police Department was alerted on Saturday to the teens offensive blackface masks, which they donned at a Speedway gas station, Mokena police chief Steven Vaccaro told the Chicago Tribune. Officers investigating the suspects identities connected with local school administrators, and on Monday, Lincoln-Way High School District 210 spokeswoman Jen Hannon confirmed the district was working with the police department. Vaccaro said that the police have closed their investigation after determining that no criminal acts took place. The department turned over all information on the case to a school resource officer from Lincoln-Way who was seeking information on the investigation. Hannon refused to address whether Lincoln-Way administrators had identified the teens or contacted their parents, saying the district does not discuss student matters. Photos of the teens at the gas station were allegedly circulating on social media during the investigation, and showed three white teenagers sitting in a dark-colored sedan beside a gas pump with their faces painted black, according to the Chicago Tribune. The incident comes less than two weeks after four other white teenagers in Illinois filmed themselves going through a McDonalds drive-through wearing blackface and shared the profanity-laced video on social media, where it went viral. The teens were students at Homewood-Flossmoor High School in Flossmoor, Ill., which called the stunt highly offensive and culturally insensitive. Members of the community demanded discipline, with some even requesting that the students be expelled. A spokesperson for the school, Dr. Jerry Lee Anderson, sent parents and students a note assuring them that what happened this weekend is taking very seriously by the administration. Story continues Unsatisfied with the response and the administrations refusal to discuss what action had been taken, per privacy laws students staged a walkout at Homewood-Flossmoor on Wednesday. About 1,000 students participated. One student, Karina Duncan, told ABC 7, The administration is honestly making it to be not a big thing and it really is. Yahoo Lifestyle has reached out the Mokena Police Department and the Lincoln-Way High School District 210 for further comment on the investigation. Read more from Yahoo Lifestyle: Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for nonstop inspiration delivered fresh to your feed, every day. (Adds context, detail) BAGHDAD, May 8 (Reuters) - Iraq oil minister Thamer Ghadhban said on Wednesday he expects his ministry to sign an initial deal with Exxon Mobil and PetroChina "very soon," but did not give a specific date. "We have managed to take a step forward in resolving some lingering issues in the deal," Ghadhban said at an oil ministry event. Once the talks end, the initial deal will be studied by the ministerial energy committee before referring it to cabinet for approval, Ghadhban added. On Tuesday, Iraq's Prime Minister Adel Abdul Mahdi said Iraq was close to signing the 30-year energy agreement with both companies, for $53 billion. Iraq expects to make $400 billion over the 30 years the deal is in effect, the prime minister said. The southern mega-project involves the development of the Nahr Bin Umar and Artawi oilfields and an increase in production from the two fields to 500,000 barrels per day (bpd) from around 125,000 bpd now, Abdul Mahdi said. Ghadhban said on Wednesday the deal with Exxon and PetroChina would allow Iraq to generate 750 million standard cubic feet of gas from the two oilfields per year. (Reporting by Ahmed Rasheed; writing by Raya Jalabi; editing by Jason Neely) BUENOS AIRES, Argentina (AP) An Argentine lawmaker was seriously injured and a provincial official killed Thursday in one of the most brazen political attacks in the South American country since it returned to democracy in 1983. Hector Olivares, representative of La Rioja province in Argentina's lower house of congress, was shot around 7 a.m. local time near the congressional building in Buenos Aires, officials said. He is being treated for gunshot wounds that pierced his abdomen and affected vital organs. The dead man was identified by Telam state news agency as Miguel Marcelo Yadon, a coordinator who works in the fiduciary of La Rioja's federal electric transportation system. Telam says the men, who reportedly were friends since their teenage years, were shot at least six times. Argentine President Mauricio Macri said doctors were trying to save Olivares' life and he expressed condolences to Yadon's family. "We're moved by this attack," Macri said in a televised address. "We're praying for Hector's life ... We will do everything to find out what happened and find out who is guilty of this." As Macri spoke, authorities wearing white jumpsuits collected evidence at the crime scene. Local media initially reported that Yadon and Olivares had been shot from a moving vehicle, but a surveillance video of the shooting released by the security ministry showed a parked car waiting for them. As the men walk by, they're seen being shot at close range. Yadon collapses on the sidewalk, while an injured Olivares tries to get up and holds up his arms in a desperate cry for help. A burly man in the driver's seat then steps out of the car and paces. Another man also steps out and walks away calmly. When a police officer arrives on the scene, the car drives away slowly. Security Minister Patricia Bullrich said the shooting "confirms the presence of mafias in our country." "Yadon was killed from a car that was waiting for him," Bullrich said in a press conference. "They shoot the main target, which was Yadon; they achieve his murder and having the opportunity to murder Olivares, they decide not to kill him." Story continues Bullrich said authorities found the car used in the crime and have identified the suspects, but she said the motive has not been confirmed and is still being investigated. Local TV broadcast images late Thursday of federal police officers escorting a man suspected of having links to the attack from his apartment into a police car. His face was covered by a hood, and authorities did not release any other details. Olivares belongs to the Radical Civic Union party of the ruling government coalition and is also part of the transportation committee in the lower house. Before he was shot, he had been discussing a bill against hooliganism in Argentine soccer, which produces some of the world's best players but is plagued by entrenched corruption and violence. "If it does turn out the judicial investigations show there is a connection to politically motivated violence then we can definitely say that we're facing a very grave institutional event," Olivares' spokesman, Ulises Bencina, told The Associated Press. Attacks on politicians are unusual in Argentina, a country of about 44 million people, where the news usually centers on an ongoing economic crisis. Politicians said the attack was the first of its kind since a brutal seven-year dictatorship from 1976-1983, during which thousands were killed, including some lawmakers. ___ Associated Press journalists Paul Byrne and Mayra Pertossi contributed to this report. By Jose Sanchez BELIZE CITY (Reuters) - Belizeans have voted to ask the United Nations world court to decide Guatemala's claim that it is the rightful owner of half of Belize's territory, setting the scene for a resolution to a dispute that has rumbled on for centuries. In a referendum held on Wednesday, 55.4 percent of voters opted to send the matter to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague, according to results published by Belize's elections and boundaries department on Thursday. The remaining 44.6 percent of voters in the former British colony in Central America opposed the motion to ask the court. Guatemalans in April 2018 voted by an overwhelming majority to have the ICJ rule on the dispute, which stretches back to the dawn of the colonial era in the Americas. In a statement, Guatemala's government applauded the result and said it would immediately contact the foreign ministry of Belize to agree the next steps in the process. "The final resolution of the dispute will broaden and deepen the good relations that exist between Guatemala and Belize," the Guatemalan foreign ministry said. Marta Larra, a spokeswoman for the ministry, estimated it could be around four years before a final court decision. "The most important thing for Guatemala is defining the border," said Larra. Officials from the U.S. State Department, the European Union and the Organization of American States (OAS) also welcomed the outcome of the referendum. Guatemala recognized the independence of Belize at the beginning of the 1990s. But it never accepted the borders and continues to claim about 11,000 square km (4,250 square miles) of Belize, about half of its territory. In December 2008, both countries signed a deal that its inhabitants could vote to decide whether the territorial claim, which includes various islands, should be decided by the ICJ. Belize Prime Minister Dean Barrow is betting the court will settle the issue once and for all by confirming the borders. In Belize City, Barrow told a news conference he wanted to make sure there were "no slip-ups" in preparing Belize's case. An English-speaking country of around 375,000 people, Belize became independent in 1981. Inhabited by Maya before the arrival of Europeans, the territory was claimed by Spain and settled by British buccaneers during the 17th century. Belize later became a British possession surrounded by countries that Spain had colonized. (Reporting by Jose Sanchez; additional reporting by Sofia Menchu in Guatemala City; editing by Dave Graham, Jonathan Oatis and Rosalba O'Brien) Caiaimage/Sam Edwards/Getty Images May 7, 2019 Being a working mom can be tough no matter where you live, but according to a newly released report from WalletHub, it's better in some states than others. In order to determine which states were most attractive to working mothers today, the personal finance site compared key metrics like daycare quality, childcare costs, gender pay gap, the ratio of female to male executives, and parental-leave policies in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Based on this methodology, WalletHub ranked Massachusetts as the No. 1 state for working mothers in 2019. It was followed by Rhode Island, Connecticut, Vermont, and the District of Columbia. The worst state for working moms was Louisiana, while Mississippi, Idaho, South Carolina, and Alabama followed right behind. Massachusetts ranked No. 1 in terms of childcare, which factors in daycare quality, the average cost of childcare, pediatricians per capita, and school system quality. The New England state also nabbed the top spot for work-life balance, which is a score based on parental-leave policy, the average length of a woman's work week, and average commute time. But Massachusetts only ranked 30th in terms of professional opportunities for working mothers. Nebraska earned the No. 1 ranking for professional opportunities, which factored in median women's salaries, the gender pay gap, and female unemployment rate. But the Cornhusker State ranked significantly lower in terms of child care (30) and work-life balance (26). As a whole, WalletHub's report found that blue states are more friendly to working moms than red states. Only a handful of states offer paid family leave. We may eventually see more states offering paid family leave, but until then, it's up to employers, says Anne E. Winkler, Ph.D., a professor of economics & public policy administration at University of Missouri at St. Louis. Story continues "Given that we still lack federal paid family leave in the United States and it is unlikely to materialize in at least the short term, firms should provide paid leave so all workersnot just professionalshave the financial ability to take time off after the birth of a child," Winkler told WalletHub. "Such policies benefit firms as well as parents by improving worker morale and attachment to the firm." Kerri J. Wade, MSW, LGSW, agrees that employers can and should do more to support working moms and dads. "I'm not referring to lip service, but actual policies and guidelines. It is understood that the goal of the company is to be profitable and for that to occur they need a workforce that shows up on time, works hard, and is dependable," said Wade, associate professor and assistant director of West Virginia University Extension Service's Families and Community Development Unit in Morgantown, West Virginia. "This is true whether the company provides professional services or hospitality," added Wade. "However, if an employee has a family member to care for, whether that be a young child or an aging parent, that employee at times is going to struggle to simultaneously meet the needs of their employer and their family." In the long and short term, happier, healthier parents make better, more productive employees. Here's hoping this WalletHub report has companies in every state thinking of ways to support working moms and dads. Eat This, Not That! The Omicron variant of COVID-19 has surged worldwide in record timeit was only three weeks ago that the first case was identified in South Africa. Last week, it accounted for 73% of new COVID infections in the United States, according to the latest CDC data. It's highly contagiousscientists estimate it's twice as transmissible as the Delta variant, which itself was twice as transmissible as the original COIVD strainwhich calls for an abundance of caution. How do you know if you've been infect Economic Calendar: Wednesday, 8th May German Industrial Production m/m (Mar) Friday, 10th May German Trade Balance (Mar) French Non-Farm Payrolls (q/q (Q1) The Majors It was another day in the red for the European majors on Tuesday. The CAC40 led the way, sliding by 1.60%, with the DAX close behind, down by 1.58%. The EuroStoxx600 also saw deep red, falling by 1.37% on the day. While the U.S majors had shown some resilience at the start of the week, limiting the downside for the likes of the DAX, it was a different story on Tuesday. Talks of punitive tariffs being rolled out later in the week continued on Tuesday, adding further uncertainty to the trade talks and economic outlook. The sell-off came despite chatter from Beijing confirming that Vice Premier Liu He will visit the U.S with talks set to kick off on Thursday. The Stats While there was plenty of anxiety over what lies ahead on the trade front, economic data out of Germany failed to provide any comfort. German factory orders rose by just 0.6% in March, according to figures released by Destatis. Orders came up well short of a forecasted 1.5% increase. The only good news was that a run of 4 consecutive monthly falls had come to an end. Year-on-year, orders were down by 6%, nullifying the effects of the month-on-month gain. From the EU, the EU Commission released its economic forecasts, which were on the more optimistic side. The Commission forecasted that the economic slowdown was likely to bottom out this year. The Commission forecasted a 1.2% GDP for the euro area for 2019. Growth for 2020 was forecasted to pick up to 1.5%. While forecasts were relatively favorable, the EU Commission did note that downside risks to the outlook remain prominent Across the Majors On the corporate earnings front, BMW delivered the big news of the day. Profits tumbled by 74%. While a legal provision of 1.4bn contributed to the slide, price competition and tech costs also weighed. With the legal provision excluded, earnings for BMWs main unit was down by 42% in the 1st quarter. Story continues BMW shares ended the day down 3.79%, with the rise in trade tensions adding downward pressure. Volkswagen fared slightly better, sliding by 3.32%, while Daimler fell by 2.71%. Elsewhere, BASF continued to slide following a 4.8% fall on Monday. BASF ended the day with a 4.14% loss. With the markets losing hope of a near-term resolution to the ongoing U.S China trade war, bank stocks also saw heavy losses. Deutsche Bank and Commerzbank ended the day with 2.91% and 2.25% losses. On the CAC40, BNP Paribas fell by 2.11%, with Italys UniCredit S.p.A tumbling by 3.2%. The Day Ahead Its another quiet day ahead on the economic data front. Germanys March industrial production figures are due out later this morning. Forecasts are negative for the DAX and the EUR, with production forecasted to fall by 0.5%. When considering the state of the German economy, its perhaps not surprising to know that production has fallen in 9 of the last 12-months. Putting aside a 0.7% increase last month, production had fallen 4-months in a row. Earlier this morning, trade data out of China provided some early support. While exports fell by 2.7%, imports unexpectedly rose by 4%. With no material stats due out of the U.S later in the day, the focus will remain on the U.S China trade talks. Talks are due to resume tomorrow and we can expect the markets to be in for a choppy day ahead. Any hint of China pulling out and expect panic stations There could also be some more posturing from the Oval Office later today At the time of writing, the futures reflected a sense of calm as the Asian majors took a dive. The DAX30 was up by 23.5 points. This article was originally posted on FX Empire More From FXEMPIRE: BERLIN (Reuters) - European countries said on Thursday they wanted to preserve Iran's nuclear deal and rejected "ultimatums" from Tehran, after Iran relaxed restrictions on its nuclear program and threatened moves that might breach the 2015 international pact. Iran's announcement on Wednesday, related to curbs on its stockpiling of nuclear materials, was in response to U.S. sanctions imposed following President Donald Trump's withdrawal of the United States from the accord with Tehran a year ago. Iran's initial moves do not appear to violate the accord yet. But President Hassan Rouhani said that unless the world powers which signed the deal protect Iran's economy from U.S. sanctions within 60 days, Iran would start enriching uranium beyond limits set in the agreement. "We reject any ultimatums and we will assess Iran's compliance on the basis of Iran's performance regarding its nuclear-related commitments ...," read a statement issued jointly by the European Union and the foreign ministers of Britain, France and Germany, co-signatories of the deal. "We are determined to continue pursuing efforts to enable the continuation of legitimate trade with Iran," they said, adding that this included getting a special purpose vehicle aimed at enabling non-dollar business with Iran off the ground. In response, Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said in a Twitter post that EU countries should uphold their obligations in the nuclear deal with Iran and normalize economic ties despite U.S. sanctions, "instead of demanding that Iran unilaterally abide by a multilateral accord". The nuclear deal required Iran to curb its uranium enrichment capacity to head off any pathway to developing a nuclear bomb, in return for the removal of most international sanctions. A series of more intrusive U.N. inspections under the deal have verified that Iran is meeting its commitments. Iran has always denied that it was seeking a nuclear weapon and says it wants to abide by the nuclear deal. The Trump administration argues that the nuclear deal was flawed because it is not permanent, does not address Iran's missile program and does not punish Iran for what Washington considers meddling in regional countries. U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo alluded to that in a statement on Thursday. "To date the regimes default option has been violence, and we appeal to those in Tehran who see a path to a prosperous future through de-escalation to modify the regime's behavior," Pompeo said. "Our restraint to this point should not be mistaken by Iran for a lack of resolve," Pompeo said. Iran nuclear deal - https://tmsnrt.rs/2WqRqfI TRUMP RENEWS TALKS APPEAL Trump, who has previously expressed a willingness to meet Iranian leaders to no avail, on Thursday renewed that appeal in an impromptu news conference at the White House. "They should call. If they do, we're open to talk to them," Trump said. He also said he could not rule out a military confrontation given the heightened tensions. Trump declined to say what prompted him to deploy the USS Abraham Lincoln carrier group to the region over what was described as unspecified threats. In an MSNBC interview, the Iranian ambassador to the United Nations Majid Takht Ravanchi said: "All of a sudden he decided to leave the negotiating table ... What is the guarantee that he will not renege again?" He dismissed U.S. allegations of an Iranian threat as "fake intelligence" comparing it to the run-up to the U.S. invasion of Iraq in 2003. The commander overseeing U.S. naval forces in the Middle East told Reuters on Thursday that American intelligence showing a threat from Iran will not prevent him from sending an aircraft carrier through the vital Strait of Hormuz, if needed. "I am not in a war-plan footing and have not been tasked to do so," U.S. Vice Admiral Jim Malloy, commander of the U.S. Navy's Bahrain-based Fifth Fleet, said in a phone interview. "However we are absolutely ready to respond to any aggression against the United States, partners in the region, or our interests." The Trump administration has ratcheted up sanctions this month, effectively ordering all countries to halt all purchases of Iranian oil or face their own sanctions. The move creates a dilemma for Washington's European allies which say they share its concerns about Iranian behavior but think the Trump administration's tactics are likely to backfire. The European allies believe Trump's campaign to isolate the Islamic Republic plays into the hands of Tehran hardliners and undermines pragmatists within the Iranian leadership who want to open the country up to the world. French President Emmanuel Macron on Thursday called for the nuclear deal to be extended to cover other issues of concern to the West, such as Iran's regional policies and ballistic missiles, rather than jettisoned. "Leaving the 2015 nuclear agreement is a mistake because it is undoing what we have already done. That's why France is remaining and will remain a part of it and I deeply hope that Iran will remain," Macron said. German Chancellor Angela Merkel said the EU wants to avoid an escalation in the dispute and Tehran must recognize that it is in its own interests to remain committed to the deal. European countries have tried to develop a system to allow outside investors to do business with Iran while avoiding falling foul of U.S. sanctions. But in practice this has failed so far, with all major European firms that had announced plans to invest in Iran saying they would no longer do so. A spokesman for Iran's Atomic Energy Organisation said on Thursday Tehran's goal was to bring the agreement "back on track". But Tehran has also maintained that it will leave the deal, known as the JCPOA, unless it receives more economic support as envisaged by the 2015 pact. "We have not left the JCPOA so far, but we have put such a move on our agenda and that would happen step by step," Deputy Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi was quoted as saying by state-run PressTV on Wednesday night. Supporters of the nuclear deal, including Trump's predecessor Barack Obama and European allies, say the pact extends the time it would take Iran to make a nuclear weapon if it decided to do so, and guarantees that it would be caught. Lifting sanctions, they argue, would show ordinary Iranians the benefits of cooperating with the world and make it more difficult for hardliners to roll back reforms. (Reporting by Madeline Chambers, Andreas Rinke, Bozorgmehr Sharafedin, Steve Holland and Phil Stewart; Writing by Peter Graff and Grant McCool; Editing by Mark Heinrich and James Dalgleish) By Jake Spring BRASILIA (Reuters) - Eight former Brazilian environment ministers blasted new right-wing President Jair Bolsonaro and his administration in a letter on Wednesday, saying it is dismantling the country's environmental protections. The former officials criticized the government's decision to strip the environment ministry's authority over forestry and water agency services, while also saying a lack of clear directives to combat climate change is threatening Brazil's ability to meet its commitments to cut greenhouse gas emissions. "All this reinforces in the end a sense of impunity, which is the byword for more deforestation and more violence," they wrote, arguing that this perceived dismantling was unconstitutional. Brazil's current Environment Minister Ricardo Salles responded point by point to the letter in a statement and blamed external forces for what he saw as a campaign against the country. "What is damaging Brazil's image is the permanent and well-orchestrated defamation campaign by NGOs and supposed experts, within and outside of Brazil," Salles' letter said. Bolsonaro on the campaign trail railed against what he has called "an industry" of environmental fines targeting farmers and at one point considered pulling out of the Paris Agreement on climate change. He still maintains climate change may not be manmade, although Brazil remains a party to the agreement. His remarks have spurred fears among environmentalists that deforestation will spike in Brazil's portion of the Amazon rain forest, which absorbs vast amounts of greenhouse gases. Brazil's Amazon deforestation, however, has fallen 34 percent year-on-year in the first four months of the year, according to data from the country's space agency INPE. The former environment ministers who drafted the letter include Rubens Ricupero, who served in the early 1990s, and Edson Duarte, who stepped down at the end of the previous government. In his response, which is longer than the original letter, Salles said he agreed with the former ministers' call for robust and efficient environmental regulations. "The current government did not reject, nor deconstruct, any previously assumed commitment that is tangible, advantageous and concrete for Brazilian society," he wrote. Salles criticized a lack of action in a variety of areas by previous governments. He defended moving the authority over forest services and the water agency ANA to other ministries. saying it would help kickstart action in those areas. "We reaffirm our commitment to combat illegal deforestation, with effective actions and not merely rhetoric," he wrote. (Reporting by Jake Spring; editing by Jonathan Oatis) A rocket blasts off from a mobile launcher in this photo North Korea's state media KCNA released on Sunday, a day after the nuclear-armed North fired multiple short-range projectiles into the East Sea. Yonhap Acting U.S. Defense Secretary Patrick Shanahan said Wednesday that North Korea fired "rockets and missiles" last week, the first time the Pentagon has described the weapons tests. Shanahan was referring to North Korea's tests on Saturday (local time) of what it has called multiple rocket launchers and tactical guided weapons. The firings appeared to signal Pyongyang's frustration with Washington over stalemated negotiations on dismantling the North's nuclear weapons program in exchange for sanctions relief. "I went for a run and then Chairman Dunford called me up and said North Korea was now shooting rockets and missiles," Shanahan told a congressional hearing, referring to U.S. Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman Gen. Joseph Dunford. The comment came as Shanahan recalled a series of events that unfolded over the weekend. The North Korean launches occurred Friday evening, Washington time. While some analysts say the test may have involved a short-range ballistic missile, the U.S. and South Korea have not used that characterization in an apparent effort to keep diplomacy between Washington and Pyongyang alive. North Korea's use of ballistic missile technology is banned under multiple United Nations Security Council resolutions. North Korean military fires multiple short-range missiles. Yonhap Sri Lanka's Catholic Church on Thursday announced it will reopen its schools next week for the first time since Easter Sunday bombings killed 258 people. Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith said the schools would open Tuesday after remaining shut following fears of a repeat of the April 21 attacks on three churches and three luxury hotels. "We have decided to open all Catholic schools on May 14," Ranjith told reporters in Colombo following a meeting between the country's 12 bishops and President Maithripala Sirisena in Colombo Thursday. All state-run schools -- more than 10,000 in total -- had resumed classes on Monday after police and security forces deployed armed guards. But attendance has been low despite a raft of new security measures, including parking restrictions near schools. Ranjith also said regular Sunday services would resume at all Catholic churches in Colombo from Sunday while a special service will be held Thursday at Negombo, north of the capital. St Sebastian's church in Negombo where over 100 people were killed will hold an open mass Thursday evening, for the first time since the attack, Ranjith said. The government has blamed a local group, the National Thowheeth Jama'ath (NTJ), for the bombings that also wounded nearly 500 people. Islamic State claimed responsibility and the bombers filmed themselves making a pledge of allegiance to the group before the attacks. The authorities have banned the NTJ under new emergency laws that were invoked to deal with Islamists responsible for the attacks. President Sirisena has vowed to eliminate the militants and restore normality in the country which is still emerging from a 37-year Tamil separatist war that ended almost a decade ago. "The offensive to crush Islamic extremists is successfully moving forward," Sirisena's office quoted him as saying on Wednesday. "The operation will move to its logical conclusion by crushing the terrorists." Sri Lanka's police say they have either killed or arrested all those responsible for the bombings but that the threat of global terrorism persists. At least 56 suspects are in custody, according to the police. COLOMBO, May 7 (Reuters) - Sri Lankan shares recouped early losses on Tuesday, but closed at their lowest levels in six-and-a-half years on lingering investor concerns following the Easter Sunday bombings. ** Investigators have dismantled a major part of the network linked to the Easter Sunday bombings, Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe said on Tuesday, but warned the chance of further Islamist militant attacks could not be ruled out. ** The benchmark stock index ended 0.07 percent weaker on Tuesday at 5,382.54, its lowest close since Dec. 5, 2012. ** Turnover was 333.3 million rupees ($1.89 million), lower than this year's daily average of 575.5 million rupees. Last year's daily average was 834 million rupees. ** Foreign investors sold a net 57.1 million rupees worth of shares on Tuesday, extending the net foreign outflow to 4.5 billion rupees worth of equities so far this year. ** The rupee closed firmer on Tuesday on dollar selling by banks, snapping an eight-session losing streak and off a near six-week low hit on Monday. ** The rupee ended at 176.90/177.10 per dollar, compared with Monday's close of 177.55/75, market sources said. ** Analysts say it could weaken further due to outflows from stocks and government securities. ** The island's currency lost 1 percent last week, but is up 3.2 percent this year as exporters converted dollars after investor confidence stabilised following the repayment of a $1 billion sovereign bond in mid-January. ** The rupee dropped 16 percent in 2018, and was one of the worst-performing currencies in Asia due to heavy foreign outflows. ** Foreign investors sold a net 3.3 billion rupees worth of government securities in the week ended April 30, extending the net foreign outflow to 10 billion rupees from the securities so far this year, the latest central bank data showed. ** The latest instability follows Sri Lanka's plunge into political turmoil in October last year, when President Maithripala Sirisena abruptly removed Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and then dissolved parliament. A court later ruled the move unconstitutional, and Wickremesinghe was reinstalled as premier. ** Investor sentiment took a big hit as a result of the 51-day political crisis, leading to credit rating downgrades and an outflow of foreign funds from government securities. ** For a report on global markets, click ** For a report on major currencies, click ($1 = 176.6000 Sri Lankan rupees) (Reporting by Ranga Sirilal; Editing by Subhranshu Sahu) On this day in 1754, Benjamin Franklin published one of the most famous cartoons in history: the Join or Die woodcut. Franklins art carried significant importance at the time and is considered an early masterpiece of political messaging. At the time, Franklin was the publisher of the Pennsylvania Gazette. He also had been chosen as a delegate for an upcoming conference in Albany, New York, to deal with a combined threat to the British from French and Indian forces. During what later became known as the Albany Congress, representatives from seven colonies Connecticut, Maryland, Massachusetts, New York, New Hampshire, Pennsylvania and Rhode Island were going to meet to discuss the French threat and work on a treaty with the Iroquois Confederacy. As the Albany Congress approached, Franklin was concerned about a recent military loss to the French and he was clearly pondering a colonial alliance to confront more French aggression. A few days after the small military defeat, Franklin published an article about the loss, as reported by a young major in the Virginia Regiment, George Washington. The Confidence of the French in this Undertaking seems well-grounded on the present disunited State of the British Colonies, and the extreme Difficulty of bringing so many different Governments and Assemblies to agree in any speedy and effectual Measures for our common Defence and Security, Franklin wrote. They presume that they may with Impunity violate the most solemn Treaties subsisting between the two Crowns, kill, seize and imprison our Traders, and confiscate their Effects at Pleasure (as they have done for several Years past) murder and scalp our Farmers, with their Wives and Children, and take an easy Possession of such Parts of the British Territory as they find most convenient for them, Franklin concluded, warning that the British presence in North America was at stake. Accompanying the article was the JOIN, OR DIE cartoon, with a snake cut into eight pieces that symbolized the British colonies. Franklins message hit home as the cartoon and article started appearing in other colonial newspapers. Story continues In a 1996 article in The British Library Journal, Karen Severud Cook reviewed the brief, but interesting, historical interpretations of the cartoon. Franklins cartoon, Cook said, was also a symbolic map, with the initials next to the snakes segments in the same order of the colonies and a rough proximity of a coastline. It is likely that Franklin himself didnt engrave the etching, since he was busy with his political career. The Join or Die cartoon also wasnt the first political cartoon he had published; Franklin had done another cartoon for a pamphlet in 1747. A severed snake image, in two pieces, had first appeared in a 1685 book in France accompanied by the words se rejoindre ou mourir (will join or die). And Franklin might also have been inspired by rattlesnake images drawn by nature historian Mark Catesby. The emblematic image gained considerable attention as the Albany Congress approached. The Congress met in June and July, where Franklin proposed an early version of a unified colonial government. A President General appointed by the crown and a Grand Council of representatives would be appointed by each of the colonies. Franklins government was limited in scope: It could provide for joint military protection and also levy taxes. The Congress approved the plan, but the British government and the colonies never acted on it. In later years, the Join or Die cartoon resurfaced on important occasions. The emblem reappeared in colonial newspapers during the Stamp Act crisis. Versions of the snake cartoon appeared in newspapers during the American Revolutionary War, sometimes as part of a masthead. And the snake cartoon was used by both sides during the Civil War. TOKYO (AP) -- Japan's top automaker Toyota said Wednesday its profit for January-March fell 4% as vehicle sales lagged in North America, while smaller car manufacturer Honda reported a loss. Toyota Motor Corp. recorded a quarterly profit of 459.5 billion yen, or $4.2 billion, down from 480.8 billion yen in the same period the previous year. Quarterly sales rose 2% to 7.75 trillion yen ($70 billion), the company said. The maker of the Camry sedan, Prius hybrid and Lexus luxury models is projecting a profit of 2.25 trillion yen, or $20 billion, for the fiscal year through March 2020, up nearly 20% from 1.88 trillion yen ($17 billion) for the fiscal year through March 2019. The company said results for the fiscal year through March this year were hurt by the absence of a U.S. tax break that boosted earnings in the previous fiscal year, and by investment losses. Still, the 30.2 trillion yen ($275 billion) in annual revenue Toyota reported was the first time a Japanese company has recorded sales above 30 trillion yen ($273 billion), a milestone for Japan Inc., according to Japanese media reports. For the fiscal year that ended in March, Toyota sold 10.6 million vehicles around the world, up from 10.4 million vehicles in the previous fiscal year. Toyota's vehicle sales grew in Europe and Asia excluding Japan, but fell in North America, an important and lucrative market. Chief Executive Akio Toyoda told reporters Toyota must adapt to changes in the industry, such as self-driving vehicles, net-connectivity, ecological technology and car-sharing, to stay competitive. "My mission is to put Toyota through a full model change to become a mobility company," instead of just a car manufacturer, he said. Toyoda noted partnerships with Uber and other Silicon Valley businesses, as well as with SoftBank Group Corp., a Japanese internet company, will offer technology for various fields, not just vehicles. Toyota's production methods, admired around the world for efficiency and worker empowerment, are advantages, he said. Story continues But Toyoda, a grandson of the automaker's founder who has led the company since 2009, also recalled memories of hardship, such as a massive recall fiasco that had him questioned in U.S. Congress in 2010. "Every day has been nerve-wracking," he said. Also Wednesday, Honda Motor Co. reported a loss of 13 billion yen ($118 million) for January-March, despite growing sales, as an unfavorable exchange rate, income tax expenses and other costs hurt results. Chief Executive Takahiro Hachigo announced Honda will streamline its product offerings, consolidating model variations, and increase parts-sharing to cut costs. Nissan Motor Co., reeling from the arrest of its former chairman, Carlos Ghosn, on financial misconduct charges, reports financial results on May 14. ___ Follow Yuri Kageyama on Twitter https://twitter.com/yurikageyama On Instagram https://www.instagram.com/yurikageyama/?hl=en Washington (AFP) - US President Donald Trump plans to nominate acting Pentagon chief Patrick Shanahan as his next secretary of defense, the White House announced Thursday. The former Boeing executive has been acting secretary for more than four months, since James Mattis resigned in protest over Trump's surprise announcement of a rapid withdrawal of US troops from Afghanistan and Syria. "Based on his outstanding service to the country and his demonstrated ability to lead, President Trump intends to nominate Patrick M. Shanahan to be secretary of defense," a White House statement said. A politically flexible management professional originally brought to the Pentagon to modernize its trillion-dollar acquisition program, Shanahan said he was happy to accept the nomination. "I am honored by today's announcement of President Trump's intent to nominate," he said in a statement. "If confirmed by the Senate, I will continue the aggressive implementation of our National Defense Strategy." "I remain committed to modernizing the force so our remarkable soldiers, sailors, airmen, and marines have everything they need to keep our military lethal and our country safe." Shanahan, 56, was Mattis's own pick in 2017 to be deputy secretary of defense, overseeing the management of the massive US military bureaucracy. Before joining the Pentagon, he spent 30 years at Boeing, where he earned the nickname Mr Fix-It for having put the problem-saddled Dreamliner program back on the tracks. - Confirmation expected - Since taking the Pentagon's reins on January 1 as acting secretary, he has kept a low profile while bending to Trump's pressure to deploy Defense Department funding and manpower to the southern border to halt the inflow of migrants from Central America. But he first had to undergo an investigation into allegations that he was a biased advocate for Boeing, especially against rival aerospace company Lockheed Martin, the builder of the F-35 joint strike fighter. Story continues After he was cleared of those allegations two weeks ago, the way was open for Trump's nomination. Shanahan, who has smoothly handled questioning in several appearances in front of Congress in recent weeks, was expected to face few hurdles in the Senate confirmation process. The job requires overseeing 2.87 million employees -- soldiers, reservists and civilians -- and managing an annual budget of more than $716 billion. Democrats though could press him hard on Trump's controversial policies, including his support for the president's border initiatives. On Thursday he was taken to task for failing to inform Congress last weekend when the administration suddenly toughened its rhetoric against Iran and Shanahan ordered an aircraft carrier task force to head to the Persian Gulf earlier than planned. "I believe Acting Secretary of Defense Shanahan is a logical choice to become the next Secretary of Defense," said senior Republican Senator Lindsey Graham. "He has demonstrated to me his detailed understanding that a strong, modern and well-trained military is essential in a dangerous and complex world." UNITED NATIONS (AP) The International Criminal Court's prosecutor warned Libya's warring parties Wednesday that her office is prepared to investigate and prosecute anyone committing war crimes or crimes against humanity. Fatou Bensouda's warning in a briefing to the Security Council followed the U.N. health agency's tweet that 443 people have been killed and 2,110 wounded since an offensive was launched against Libya's capital of Tripoli on April 4 by Khalifa Hifter, leader of the self-styled Libyan National Army. The offensive could plunge the oil-rich country into possibly the worst violence since the 2011 civil war that toppled and later killed longtime dictator Moammar Gadhafi. The chaos that followed resulted in a divided Libya, with a weak U.N.-supported administration in Tripoli overseeing the country's west and a government in the east aligned with Hifter. Each is backed by an array of militias and armed groups fighting over resources and territory. Hifter launched the offensive days before a national conference of all Libyan parties was scheduled to begin, aimed at an agreement on elections for a new government. It has been postponed. With the number of people displaced by fighting approaching 60,000, the World Health Organization said in a tweet Wednesday that it is working to coordinate health services for them. The U.N. refugee agency called for refugees and migrants in detention centers in conflict areas in Tripoli to be immediately evacuated to safety, after an airstrike injured two migrants. The agency said it has relocated over 1,200 people from high-risk locations to safer areas since the offensive began, but some 3,460 refugees and migrants remain in detention centers near conflict-affected areas. "The risks are simply unacceptable at this point," Vincent Cochetel, the refugee agency's special envoy for the Central Mediterranean said in a statement. "People inside detention centers in Tripoli are facing ever-increasing dangers, making it vital that we immediately move them out of harm's way." Story continues In Paris, Libyan Prime Minister Fayez Sarraj, who heads the U.N.-supported government, said after meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron that he is prepared to return to the peace process "as soon as possible." But he said in an interview with France 24 that a fresh peace effort would be difficult due to Hifter's offensive, which he called an attempted coup. At the Security Council, Bensouda expressed "great regret" that "fighting in Libya continues unabated" and that violence has escalated over the past six months. She stressed the requirement of combatants to protect civilians and civilian infrastructure such as schools, hospitals and detention centers. "I urge this council and all member states of the United Nations to ensure a consistent and unambiguous message is conveyed to all warring factions in Libya that the rules of international humanitarian law must be fully respected, and that perpetrators of atrocity crimes will be held individually criminally responsible," she said. Many council members called for a cease-fire and a return to a political path. The Security Council referred the situation in Libya to the ICC in 2011 but Bensouda complained to the council that the three suspects sought by the court remain at large Seif al-Islam Gadhafi, the late dictator's son; Mahmoud al-Werfalli, a commander in the Libyan National Army; and Al-Tuhamy Mohamed Khaled, former head of the Libyan Internal Security Agency. Bensouda said her office is assessing "the feasibility of bringing cases before the ICC in relation to crimes against migrants." She said that "the body of evidence collected by my office indicates that crimes including torture, unlawful imprisonment, rape and enslavement are committed against migrants throughout their journeys and in both official and unofficial detention centers." Fighters loyal to the internationally recognized Libyan Government of National Accord (GNA) keep position near the Salah al-Din military compound, south of the Libyan capital Tripoli, on May 7, 2019. Troops loyal to military strongman Khalifa Haftar said today they shot down a warplane of rival forces of Libya's unity government near Tripoli and captured its foreign "mercenary" pilot. UNITED NATIONS The U.N. health agency says 443 people have died and 2,110 have been wounded in violence in Libya's capital since the head of the self-styled Libyan National Army launched an offensive against Tripoli last month. With the number of people displaced by fighting approaching 60,000, the World Health Organization said in a tweet Wednesday that it is working to coordinate ongoing health services for them. U.N. deputy spokesman Farhan Haq said Wednesday the U.N. is very concerned about reports that airstrikes a day earlier hit a migrant detention center in Tajoura in eastern Tripoli, reportedly injuring two migrants. He told reporters the U.N. mission in Libya "is also deeply concerned about increased cases of arbitrary arrest and abduction of officials, activists and journalists" and is calling for their immediate release. More stories: Download the USA TODAY app Libyans hold a demonstration at Martyrs' Square against military operations by forces loyal to Field Marshal Khalifa Hifter in Tripoli, Libya, Friday, May 3, 2019. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: United Nations says 443 died in Libya since offensive began against Tripoli in last month Already the second-largest outbreak in history, the Ebola epidemic that has killed just over 1,000 people in the Democratic Republic of Congo continues to grow and threatens to surpass the 2014 outbreak in West Africa that resulted in 11,325 deaths, an official at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said. Were very concerned. This outbreak does have the potential to be the largest outbreak if things remain unchecked and cases continue at the current pace, Ray Arthur, director of the CDCs Global Disease Detection Operations Center, told Yahoo News. This outbreak has been going for a year now, the first cases were actually in April of 2018, but the outbreak wasnt recognized and declared until August. But over the last three or four weeks, weve seen approximately one-fifth of all the cases, which represents a marked increase. Mwamini Kahindo, an Ebola survivor working as a caregiver to babies who are confirmed Ebola cases, holds an infant outside the red zone at the Ebola treatment center in Butembo, Democratic Republic of Congo, March 25, 2019. (Photo: Baz Ratner/Reuters) Sectarian fighting has complicated the medical response to the virus from foreign governments and groups like the World Health Organization (WHO) and Doctors Without Borders. Even worse, health workers have been attacked by anti-government rebels, with 85 either killed or wounded since January, an official at the WHO told the Associated Press. In October, when the number of reported cases hit 300, the Trump administration, citing security concerns, barred U.S. health experts from working or traveling to the Democratic Republic of Congo to assist in the latest outbreak. Doctors Without Borders pulled staff from the affected areas in February after attacks on treatment centers. With fewer health workers on the ground in North Kivu, the province in eastern Congo where the outbreak is centered, the WHO shifted its strategy this week from attempting to track and vaccinate the contacts of those diagnosed with the disease, to opening pop-up vaccination clinics in relatively safe communities. We know that vaccination is saving lives in this outbreak, WHO director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said in a statement. We also know that we still face challenges in making sure the contacts of every case receive the vaccine as soon as possible. Story continues Congolese Red Cross workers carry the coffin of a Congolese woman, Kahambu Tulirwaho, who died of Ebola, during a burial service at a cemetery in Butembo, the Democratic Republic of Congo, March 28, 2019. (Photo: Baz Ratner/Reuters) Proven components in containing past Ebola outbreaks tracking and monitoring an infected patients contacts have been difficult to achieve in the densely populated war zone, a fact that has further enhanced the need for a robust supply of the vaccine. So far, of the 5.7 million people who live in North Kivu, 111,000 have received the Ebola vaccine, and 30,000 of that number are health workers. Merck, the American pharmaceutical company that has developed the yet-to-be FDA-approved vaccine, is working to ramp up production. The scale of the need, however, has prompted the WHO to propose a strategy of cutting the dosage to stretch supply. Still, Arthur said, the prospect of mass vaccination for Ebola wont be quick. If we could turn on a switch and do that overnight, we would. The U.S. government is working very closely with Merck to monitor their production schedule and supply, but its not easy to ramp up the production of a vaccine quickly, Arthur said. You have quality control testing, etc. There are efforts to ramp up the supply, but the timetable is not as fast as you might expect. In the meantime, fearing that the current outbreak of Ebola which is transmitted through contact with bodily fluids and has killed 66 percent of those who have been infected will spread to neighboring countries, the CDC has deployed personnel to the region. The longer the transmission goes on with the increased number of cases, one of our concerns is the larger population centers in North Kivu, a city called Goma, which is on the border with Rwanda and were quite concerned with cases occurring there which would increase the likelihood that they would cross over the border, Arthur said. Theres a lot of border traffic, in the neighborhood of 10,000 crossings each day, between [the Democratic Republic of Congo] and Uganda. Given that concern, CDC has deployed over 100 staff members to three at-risk countries, Uganda, Rwanda and South Sudan, to help those counties prepare to respond to a case should it occur. Arthur said mistrust of outsiders is common in North Kivu and a social media disinformation campaign has led many to believe that the Ebola scare is a hoax or that vaccinations actually cause the disease. The outbreak is not going to come under control without the cooperation of the community, Arthur said. Its true with any Ebola outbreak. If the cases dont want to identify the individuals theyve had contact with, or if they dont want to cooperate with the contact-tracing teams who come to visit them every day for 21 days or want to hide or whatever, then we really have challenges. The perfect storm of a deadly infectious virus, violent social upheaval and social media disinformation has health officials on edge and bracing for more bad news. Every wrinkle that could have happened in this outbreak seems to have occurred, Arthur said. Thats why were concerned, given the current trajectory. Definitely, things are going to get worse before they get better. _____ Read more from Yahoo News: U.S. President Donald Trump waves to members of the media on the South Lawn of the White House in Washington, Wednesday, May 8, 2019, before boarding Marine One for a short trip to Andrews Air Force Base, Md., to travel to Florida to visit with those affected by Hurricane Michael and attend a rally. (AP Photo/Andrew Harnik) The United States won't "intervene" if South Korea decides to send food aid to North Korea, the White House said Wednesday. U.S. President Donald Trump expressed support for South Korea's possible humanitarian assistance to the North during a phone call with President Moon Jae-in on Tuesday, the latter's office said. White House press secretary Sarah Sanders was asked at a meeting with reporters Wednesday if Trump will go along with the plan despite the North's firing of projectiles last week. "Our position in regards to North Korea is going to continue to be the maximum pressure campaign. Our focus is on the denuclearization," Sanders said, referring to the U.S.-led sanctions aimed at dismantling the North's nuclear weapons program. LAGUNA NIGUEL, Calif. (AP) Immigration officials will train dozens of U.S. border patrol agents to start screening immigrants arriving on the southwest border for asylum amid a surge in the number of families seeking the protection, a government official said Wednesday. L. Francis Cissna, director of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, said his agency will train about 60 border agents over the next few months to join in conducting the screenings on the U.S.-Mexico border. The first group of 10 agents will start receiving training in Los Angeles next week. "These agents are going to be receiving weeks of training. They're going to be here at least a month," Cissna said in an interview with The Associated Press on a visit to immigration offices in Laguna Niguel, California. "And so too will all the subsequent cadres of border patrol agents." The move comes as the Trump administration is grappling with a surge in the number of families with children arriving on the border. Border arrests are down compared with decades ago, but the number of children and families seeking asylum, many of them from Central America, has risen in recent years. The number of immigrants apprehended on the border topped 100,000 for the second month in a row in April, the highest number recorded since 2007. Asylum officers conduct initial interviews of immigrants arriving on the border to determine whether they have a credible fear of returning to their countries or should be sent back. Those who pass the interviews are allowed to seek asylum before an immigration judge, but their cases may take years to wind through the backlogged immigration courts. Immigrant advocates have voiced concerns about border patrol agents conducting the screenings, which are mean to be interviews, not interrogations. Clara Long, senior researcher for Human Rights Watch, said agents often intimidate immigrants when initially asking if they fear returning to their countries. Story continues "What we see over and over again is Border Patrol just has a culture of disbelieving asylum seekers," she said. "It's really hard to imagine these agents being able to create the openness and trust and listening that's really required for a credible fear interview." A message was sent to U.S. Customs and Border Protection seeking comment. Cissna said he was confident agents could conduct the interviews and would be fully trained. In addition to the border patrol agents, two dozen employees at the immigration services agency who have worked on asylum in the past are helping conduct the screenings, and a few dozen more have volunteered to do so, Cissna said. "We have more people in the pipeline, another few dozen, at least, across the agency who have volunteered," he said. The move should help speed up the screening of immigrants in detention facilities who are waiting to see if they are eligible to seek asylum, and free up more detention beds, Cissna said. In the months from October through January, officers completed credible-fear screenings in 10 days or less about half of the time, according to agency statistics. There are currently about 200 officers assigned to conduct the screenings, the agency said. The U.S. government also recently revised training documents for hundreds of asylum officers who carry out the screenings. Officers will now also need to explain why immigrants are found credible, while previously they only needed to spell out why immigrants were not, he said. Megan Brewer, an immigration attorney in Los Angeles, said when she used to work as an asylum officer she often saw changes in training documents or guidance. While the laws surrounding asylum didn't change, the revisions seemed intended to get officers to shift how they were handling cases, she said. By Angus Berwick and Mayela Armas CARACAS (Reuters) - Venezuelan intelligence agents detained opposition leader Juan Guaido's congressional deputy on Wednesday, using a tow truck to drag his vehicle away with him inside, prompting the U.S. government to warn of "consequences" if he was not released. The SEBIN intelligence agency seized Edgar Zambrano, vice president of the opposition-controlled National Assembly, which Guaido heads, in the first arrest of a lawmaker since Guaido tried to spark a military uprising last week to bring down President Nicolas Maduro's government. Venezuela's pro-Maduro Constituent Assembly agreed on Tuesday to strip Zambrano and six other lawmakers of their parliamentary immunity to allow their future prosecution. The opposition does not recognize the assembly's decisions. The Supreme Court had earlier accused those lawmakers of conspiracy, rebellion and treason, and accused another three opposition legislators of the same crimes on Wednesday. The opposition says Maduro has stacked the court with his own supporters, while the U.S. government this week threatened to sanction all its members. The U.S. government's Venezuelan embassy, now based in Washington, said Zambrano's "arbitrary detention" was "illegal and inexcusable." "Maduro and his accomplices are those directly responsible for Zambrano's security. If he is not immediately freed, there will be consequences," the embassy said on Twitter. An attempted uprising last week led by Guaido, recognized by the United States and other Western countries as the rightful head of state, failed to dislodge Maduro, as have a series of U.S. sanctions against his government. Maduro decried the events as an attempted coup. "One of the principal conspirators of the coup has just been arrested," Diosdado Cabello, head of the Constituent Assembly, said in comments broadcast on state television. "They will have to pay before the courts for the failed coup that they attempted," he said. 'KIDNAPPED' Zambrano said on Twitter at about 6.40 pm local time (2240 GMT) SEBIN agents had surrounded his vehicle outside the headquarters of his Democratic Action party in Caracas' La Florida district. "We were surprised by the SEBIN, and after refusing to let us leave our vehicle, they used a tow truck to forcibly transfer us directly to the (SEBIN headquarters) Helicoide," he said. It was not yet clear if Zambrano was already at the Helicoide. Guaido said on Twitter: "The regime has kidnapped the first vice president." Guaido invoked the constitution in January to assume an interim presidency, denouncing Maduro as illegitimate after he secured re-election last year in a vote widely viewed as fraudulent. Maduro has overseen the collapse of Venezuela's economy, which has shrunk by half over the past five years, forcing more than 3 million Venezuelans to emigrate. The Constituent Assembly removed Guaido's parliamentary immunity in early April. Authorities have not tried to arrest him since then, but Maduro has said he will "face justice." U.S. President Donald Trump's administration has threatened Maduro's government with a harsh response should it ever detain Guaido. Earlier on Wednesday, the Supreme Court's head, Maikel Moreno, rebuffed the U.S. government's threats to sanction his court's members if they did not reject Maduro's government and Guaido. The U.S. Treasury Department imposed sanctions on Moreno and the seven principal members of the court's constitutional chamber in 2017 for rulings that "usurped the authority" of the National Assembly. U.S. Vice President Mike Pence said on Tuesday the Trump administration would soon sanction the 25 remaining members of the court. Pence said the United States was lifting economic sanctions on a former Venezuelan general who turned against Maduro in order to encourage other Maduro allies to follow suit. The head of the Organization of American States, Luis Almagro, said: "We demand the SEBIN stop the intimidation, respect the lawmakers' parliamentary immunities, and immediately release Edgar Zambrano." (Reporting by Angus Berwick and Mayela Armas; Editing by Rosalba O'Brien, Lisa Shumaker and Paul Tait) 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. People watch a TV screen showing a live broadcast of President Moon Jae-in during a TV talk show at the Seoul Railway Station in Seoul, Thursday, May 9, 2019. AP-Yonhap By Kim Yoo-chul President Moon Jae-in urged the political parties here to reach a consensus, Thursday, and stand behind the government's plan to provide humanitarian assistance to North Korea. "The government planned to provide food assistance to North Korea. As North Korea has launched additional missiles, this plan needs to get a consensus from the public. A meeting of the political parties is needed," President Moon said in a televised event, "Special Talk with President Moon Jae-in," aired to celebrate the second anniversary of his inauguration. Earlier, North Korea launched two short-range missiles, its second such series of launches in less than a week. They occurred around 4:30 p.m. (KST) from the North's Sino-ri missile base, which is believed to house Rodong short- and medium-range ballistic missiles, Cheong Wa Dae sources told The Korea Times. Despite these repeated provocative actions, the President said Pyongyang is advised to quickly return to denuclearization talks that have been stalled since the failed February summit between President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un held in Hanoi, Vietnam. "The latest missile launches can be seen as the North expressing dissatisfaction after the second summit between the United States and North Korea failed to produce results," Moon said. It is evident for all to see that Hamas held its fire in Gaza only after being handsomely paid. Prime Minister and Defense Minister Benjamin Netanyahu insists on hiding the nature of this payment, probably because he is not proud of what he has agreed to. Follow Ynetnews on Facebook STRONG> and Twitter His defense establishment claims Hamas and Islamic Jihad were hit hard by Israel, but when pressed, they admit they cannot say how long this ceasefire will last. This is no way to establish deterrence. The aftermath of Israeli bombing in Gaza (Photo: AFP) It's hard to shake the feeling that Israel lost twice. First by paying Hamas off and second by ending the fight with no guarantee of quiet on the border. Israeli policy makers, in fact there is just one Israeli policy maker, behaved like a coward. Rather than facing criticism from both the left and the right, and informing the public as to why decisions were made, what policy is in place, and what achievements were gained, our leader chose to hide behind his generals, who talked about the IDF's superiority, which no one doubts. But that is only part of the story. Prime Minister Netanyahu at Security briefing (Photo: GPO) According to the narrative promoted by defense officials, the last three days of fighting were a result of Islamic Jihad's efforts to disrupt the Eurovision Song Contest that takes place next week in Tel Aviv, thereby damaging Israel's image abroad and impacting tourism. Their attempts at provocations, however, were not successful. Until last Friday that is, when a sniper in Gaza hit an IDF officer. Israel, though recognizing the provocation for what it was, decided to respond by targeting a Hamas commander, a man responsible for the production of long-range missiles. Israel played into the hands of its enemies, and did so knowingly, opening the door for Hamas to join the party. In fact, it all played out at the exact time that Hamas leaders were discussing a long-term ceasefire with Egyptian negotiators. Could that have been intentional? The aftermath of IDF strikes in Gaza (Photo: AFP) Hamas may have initially hoped to contain the situation, but was dragged into a longer and more violent round of violence. Both factions suffered massively by hundreds of Israel Air Force attacks and over 2,000 targets in Gaza hit. In the end, according to Arab media reports, Israel agreed to accept the second phase of the long-term ceasefire agreement, which means, among other things, construction projects in the Gaza Strip. According to some Egyptian media reports, Israel may also have agreed to discuss a sea port for Gaza, in this phase. Direct hit on house in Ashkelon (Photo: AP) Has Israel agreed to a sea port? Who knows? No one on this side of the border sees any need for accountability. Now, as after all previous rounds of fighting, the Israeli defense officials talk about a renewed deterrence. But if such a deterrence is now felt by the Palestinian factions, what was the need for the negotiated ceasefire? Will the deterrence last beyond next Friday's border demonstrations? What will happen when the next incendiary airborne device is launched? Israel's military operated under the guidelines set by the government, namely that they should avoid all-out war. They complied. Military actions were carried out with precision. But the political objectives were to save the Eurovision - which can still be sabotaged by any rogue organization that is able to fire a missile at the heart of Tel Aviv. 2018 Eurovision winner Netta Barzilai, whose victory brought the contest to Israel this year (Photo: AP) This was undoubtably the least necessary round of fighting this year. The political leadership must explain the reasons for it. The immediate take-away must be that we urgently need a serious cabinet and a full-time defense minister, not one who is also prime minister and health minister and immigration minister. U.S. President Donald Trump said on Wednesday that China "broke the deal" it had reached in trade talks with the United States, and vowed not to back down on imposing new tariffs on Chinese imports unless Beijing "stops cheating our workers." The U.S. Trade Representative's office announced that tariffs on $200 billion worth of Chinese goods would increase to 25 percent from 10 percent at 12:01 a.m. (0401) GMT on Friday, right in the middle of two days of meetings between Chinese Vice Premier Liu He and Trump's top trade officials in Washington. Speaking to supporters at a rally in Florida on Wednesday, Trump accused China of breaking the deal and that Beijing would pay if no agreement is reached. "I just announced that we'll increase tariffs on China and we won't back down until China stops cheating our workers and stealing our jobs, and that's what's going to happen, otherwise we don't have to do business with them," Trump told a cheering crowd. "They broke the deal," he added. "They can't do that. So they'll be paying. If we don't make the deal, nothing wrong with taking in more than $100 billion a year." Trump's comments fueled a round of selling in Asian markets Beijing has announced it would retaliate if tariffs rise. Many Israelis ventured out to nature to celebrate the country's 71st anniversary Thursday; some parks were reported to be in full capacity as early as 10am, said the KKL, the authority the manages many of Israel's parks. Three people were killed on Thursday in a suspected hit-and-run attack by Islamic State militants on a town in southern Libya, residents and a military official said, the second such attack within days. Gunmen stormed the town of Ghadwa, opened fire before retreating back into the desert, residents said. The attack came after nine soldiers were killed on Saturday in an attack claimed by Islamic State on a training camp belonging to the eastern Libyan forces of commander Khalifa Haftar. Egypt has deported 79 Sudanese nationals who were trying to cross into Libya to head onward to Europe. Egyptian officials at the Cairo International Airport say the Sudanese were among dozens of migrants, including Egyptians and citizens of other African countries, who were detained earlier this month in the northwestern city of Marsa Matrouh. It was not clear what happened to the others. The officials spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to brief reporters. Libya became a major conduit for African migrants and refugees fleeing to Europe after the uprising that toppled and killed Moammar Gadhafi in 2011. Thousands have perished while making the perilous sea crossing to Europe while others have been detained and abused in Libya by smugglers and armed groups. By Jung Da-minWhile the government has remained cautious to confirm whether a missile was fired in North Korea's launch of multiple projectiles last week, experts have widely agreed that it was the North's first missile launch since November 2017.Multiple analyses based on the photos of projectiles released by the North's state-run Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) show North Korea launched what appears to be a "new missile" that bears outward similarities to a Russian Iskander short range ballistic missile (SRBM) which has a range of about 280 kilometers when carrying a 450-500 kilogram warhead."Photographs of the missile look remarkably like those of a Russian-produced Iskander, suggesting that North Korea imported the missile either directly from Moscow, or through a third party," said a report released Wednesday by 38 North, a North Korea monitoring website run by the Washington-based think tank Stimson Center, noting that Moscow is permitted to export the Iskander-E, one version of the Iskander missile specifically designed and produced for export."It would not be too surprising for [North Korea's] engineers to develop a smaller, shorter-range missile resembling the Iskander."Katsuhisa Furukawa, a former member of the United Nations Panel of Experts, also said that it is highly likely that the North's weapons test involved a ballistic missile, according to Japan's Asahi Shimbun report , Wednesday.Furukawa said the controversial weapon's external appearance is very similar to that of a modified version of the Iskander and the white smoke and intense light at the time of launch are characteristics of the solid fuel used for the Russian SRBM. U.S. Acting Defense Secretary Patrick Shanahan said during a Congressional hearing, Wednesday (local time), that North Korea last week launched "rockets and missiles," the first time the Pentagon has detailed what they believe Pyongyang was testing. "Chairman Dunford called me up and said North Korea was now shooting rockets and missiles," Shanahan said, referring to Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Joseph Dunford. The defense ministry during a press briefing Thursday said that it believed Shanahan was referring to the initial report from May 4, when Seoul also said North Korea tested a single "short-range missile." The ministry later said that the DPRK had instead launched "multiple short-range projectiles." It has yet to confirm if it was a missile. Meanwhile, the North's KCNA Thursday night published two articles, arguing the (North's) Korean People's Army (KPA)'s test-launch of projectiles and a "new tactical guided weapon" on May 4 was a regular and self-defensive military drill, which should not be branded as provocative. "Any country carries on military drills for national defense and this kind of very normal drill is obviously different from the war exercises waged by some countries against other sovereign states," said a KCNA report citing a spokesman of its foreign ministry. Another KCNA article citing a spokesman of the delegation of the North Korean side to the North-South general-level military talks criticized the South Korean military for saying the North's drill is contrary to the purpose of the military agreement reached last year. It criticized recent combined air drills by South Korea and the U.S., referring to a two-week long annual springtime exercise, which used to be called Max Thunder. This year, South Korea and the U.S. replaced Max Thunder with a smaller-scale exercise but the North has called it "an outright challenge" to the April 27 Panmunjeom Declaration and September Pyongyang Joint Declaration reached between the leaders of the two Koreas last year. ROME -- A Polish-born Holocaust survivor opened a book fair in Italy on Thursday to a standing ovation, after organizers agreed to ban a publisher linked to a neo-fascist group. Halina Birenbaum, an 89-year-old poet who lives in Israel, was quoted by Italy's Corriere della Sera daily as saying "this is more proof for me that evil will not win." Birenbaum and the Auschwitz-Birkenau museum had threatened to boycott the 2019 Turin International Book Fair if it included the Altaforte publishing house, whose director is linked to the neo-fascist CasaPound party. "We consider our presence incompatible with that of a neo-fascist publishing house that openly spreads a revisionist culture," read a letter signed by Birenbaum and others including Piotr Cywinski, director of the state museum in Poland. The parliamentary bloc of Lebanon's militant Hezbollah group has blasted the United States over new sanctions it imposed on Iran, describing them as "unjustified." The bloc said in a statement Thursday that the American moves against Iran show the U.S. administration's "tyrannical and dictatorial trend." Hezbollah, which is backed and armed by Iran and is represented in Lebanon's Cabinet and parliament has been hit by U.S. sanctions for many years. The group says that America's unilateral sanctions do no respect international laws and Washington "behaves in accordance with the law of the jungle." It said Iran has the power to defend itself. Expert Advice with Michael Yardney. We dream of it, we work for it, and sometimes we even plan for it - but can the average Australian really develop financial independence? The simple answer is YES because if others have achieved it, so can you. Ill let you in on a little secret... wealthy people dont do different things; they just do things in a different way - from the way they think to the actions they take. This means you can also become wealthy by doing what they do and thinking how they think. For example not everybody has to work hard for their money. Thats because the rich earn recurring passive income. Being a property investor or a business owner is like owning the proverbial money tree you control something that makes money for you, without the need to even be there. In his books Robert Kiyosaki explains how the rich differ from the poor and its not just because they have more money. He suggests we can all be placed in one of four categories. 1. Employees have a job Employees trade hours for dollars. However, what they really get are leftovers after the government takes its share in taxes. On the other hand, business owners and investors only pay tax on whats left over after their bills are paid. Wouldnt it be nice to only have to pay tax on what you dont spend? 2. The Self-Employed own a job Self-employed people and professionals usually want to be their own boss. Theyre prepared to work hard, but often what theyve done is swap one boss for hundreds. Theyre called customers or clients. In reality, self-employed people arent business owners they still work for their money, but theyre somewhat better off than employed people because theyre able to take advantage of tax deductions that allow them to pay their business expenses before being taxed on whats left over. 3. The Business Owner owns a system and people work for them The true business owner not only doesnt have to work, he doesnt have to be at work every day, because he has systems and managers who supervise the employees who do the work. The true business owner asks, Why do it yourself when you can employ someone to do it for you? After initially investing in a business idea, and a business system, they let the money they have invested which is now in the form of a business work for them. 4. The Investor money works for them Successful investors dont have to work either, because their money works for them. If you hope to become rich at some point, you must belong to this group; because investors convert money into wealth. Obviously, youre not going to jump from being an employee to a full-time investor overnight. But you can start taking the steps to move from being an employee or self employed, by building your own property portfolio. Done correctly, income earning residential real estate can be your vehicle for getting out of the rat race! There are also many legal tax advantages available to investors. One of the reasons the rich get richer is that in some cases, they make millions and legally pay very little tax. Thats because they build their assets, not their income and make their money as investors, not workers. Imagine owning $2 million worth of investment properties that increases in value by 7% each year. In twelve months, your asset base will have increased by $140,000, yet no tax is payable on this. Wealthy property investor can borrow against the increased value of their assets because their rents have also increased improving their serviceability. Where do you stand? Which category do you fit in? Are you an employee, self employed, a business owner or an investor? In the past there has been a slow but steady transfer of wealth from employees and self employed to business owners and investors. Theyre all playing the same game, but each group is playing with a different set of rules and their mindsets are poles apart. Employees and self-employed work harder and harder, trying to build cashflow, yet many dig themselves deeper into a hole of consumer debt. In the meantime, business owners and investors slowly build up their assets. The employed and self-employed pay the most tax, while business owners and investors take advantage of legal tax loopholes. Logically, if you want to become wealthy you are going to have to become either a business owner or an investor. Its just too hard to become rich as an employee or self-employed worker. Does that mean you should give up your day job? Not necessarily. Many employees have become very successful property investors. So rather than relinquish your job, I suggest you start educating yourself with the aim of becoming a property investor initially in your spare time and then maybe, if you choose, on a full-time basis. Should you become a business owner? Since most small businesses fail in the first 5 years, I think the opportunity to become rich through successful property investment is much easier for the average Australian. Thats why I recommend you seriously consider making your fortune as an educated, financially fluent real estate investor who treats their property like a business. .......................................................... Michael Yardney is CEO of Metropole Property Strategists, which creates wealth for its clients through independent, unbiased property advice and advocacy. He is a best-selling author, one of Australias leading experts in wealth creation through property and writes the Property Update blog. To read more articles by Michael Yardney, click here Disclaimer: while due care is taken, the viewpoints expressed by contributors do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Your Investment Property. South Korea's military says North Korea has fired at least one unidentified projectile from its western area. It's the second such launch in the last five days. The South's Joint Chiefs of Staff had no other immediate details of the Thursday afternoon launch. North Korea and the United States are currently deadlocked in diplomacy meant to rid the North of its nuclear arsenal. The launch came hours after the North through its state media described its earlier firing of rocket artillery and an apparent short-range ballistic missile on Saturday as a regular and defensive military exercise and ridiculed South Korea for criticizing the launches. (AP) 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. Popular Nigerian actress Tonto Dikeh has revealed the only condition on which she might accept her husband back. Tonto Dikeh has once again come out to comment on issues concerning her failed marriage with actor Olakunle Churchill. According to the actress, she will continue to talk about her marriage until she feels like she won't do so anymore. READ ALSO: Ursula Owusu reveals her three topmost musicians in Ghana In an Instagram post, Tonto Dikeh expressed fury about her former husband as she tagged him as a bad man. The actress and socialite disclosed that she can take back her ex-husband, Churchill, if only it was to kill him. Tonto was quick to say that she will however not kill her former husband because her son will hold her responsible one day. She also swore never to accept her former husband back, claiming that Churchill himself knows she doesn't want him back. Tonto Dikeh went on to slam social media users and friends of Churchill who jabbed her for making certain allegations against her former husband. READ ALSO: Evangelist Papa Shee claims Obofuor and Obinim are agents of the devil "No one married with me. No one was beaten with me. No one enjoyed with me etc, so I mean no one will ever dictate to me how to act out or what form I choose to vent my anger," she wrote. "Fact is, if I hear PIM again from this man on any interview, I will be up again doing exactly this same thing but this time even worse, using more documented proofs! I dont look for trouble but I am the last to ever leave it," she added. The actress also disclosed that she is really hurt about her failed marriage since her former husband used her. She further stated that she does not want child support since her former husband cannot provide that constantly. The actress noted that if her former husband is able to provide constant child support, she will allow him to touch her son. READ ALSO: Ashanti Region chief claims nurses are the most wicked professionals; explains reasons Star Gist: I started acting because i was told i look like Suzy Williams - Kisa Gbekle| #Yencomgh Have national and human interest issues to discuss? Know someone who is extremely talented and needs recognition? Your stories and photos are always welcome. Get interactive via our Facebook page. Source: YEN.com.gh New Delhi: Newcomer actor Manmohan Mishra has got the golden opportunity of working with Bhojpuri hot cake Anjana Singh. He will be seen in director Ravi Sinha's women oriented film 'Shakti'. Besides this, he has several other movies in the pipeline. Manmohan maintains that 'Shakti' is a different film and is a female-oriented one. He revealed that he is playing a lawyer in this Bhojpuri drama. "I am very excited about 'Shakti' as the character in the movie have me ample scope to perform. Anjana Singh plays the female lead in the movie," he said. The actor has worked with Anjana in two films before 'Shakti' went on floors. He has worked in 'Tiger Abhi Zinda Hain' and 'Hathkadi 2' with the actress. Talking about the actress, he said, "Anjana Singh is very supportive. She helped me throught the shoot and at times when I struggled with a scene, she helped me and guided me on how to perform." 'Tiger Abhi Zinda Hai' is set to release soon. The shooting of this actioner took place in Dubai, Mumbai and Gujarat. On the other hand, 'Hathkadi 2' and 'Shakti' has been largely shot in Bhopal and Mandideep. Talking about his early days, the actor revealed, "I am from Madhya Pradesh's Reeva and wanted to become an actor ever since I was a child. I struggled a lot in Mumbai to get where I am today and that's how director Ravi Sinha offered me a role in 'Dushman Sarhad Paar Ke'. Although I played a small role in it but that break helped me get noticed." "Ravi Sinha then gave me a role in 'Munna Mawali' which was a super hit. I got a lot of appreciation for my part in this movie and that's when he offered me a full-fledged role in 'Tiger Abhi Zinda Hai'." The actor said that although these three movies are equally important for him but 'Shakti' holds a special significance for him as he got a huge platform to prove his acting talent. Manmohan Mishra said, " Working in 'Hathkadi 2 has been very challenging for me because its first part was a superhit featuring Dinesh Lal Yadav Nirahua and Khesari Lal Yadav. Pramod Premi will be seen along with me in the movie. Anjana Singh is the leading lady in the movie." The actor praised the director and called Ravi Sinha as his real godfather. He urged the fans to watch his movies 'Tiger Abhi Zinda Hain', 'Hathkadi 2' and 'Shakti' in cinema halls, asking them to review the movie and give honest feedback. This May 4 file photo from North Korea's state-run Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) shows a rocket fired from a large-caliber long-range multiple rocket launcher. KCNA-Yonhap By Jung Da-min North Korea launched two suspected missiles Thursday, five days after firing off multiple "projectiles" including its new tactical guided weapon, widely agreed by experts to be a short range ballistic missile (SRBM). The launches took place at 4:29 p.m. and 4: 49 p.m., respectively, from around Kusong in North Pyongan Province and landed in the seas off its east coast, according to the Republic of Korea Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS). The JCS said one flew about 270 kilometers and the other, 420 kilometers, both at an altitude of around 50 kilometers. Cheong Wa Dae expressed concern over the launches, saying they did not help ease military tension on the peninsula. President Moon Jae-in said they would be a violation of United Nations sanctions if the projectiles were identified as ballistic missiles even short-range ones in a special interview with public broadcaster KBS celebrating the two-year anniversary of his administration. In the last week of April, I had the good fortune of attending a seminar on a subject close to my heart, and in which I had professionally engaged myself. It was a seminar on national security, counter-terrorism in the aftermath of Balakot, although this does not capture the actual title of the event. The attendees were some of the finest veteran defence personnel, that included the Indian Air Force chief at the time of Kargil, Air Chief Marshal AY Tipnis (Retd), as the guest of honour. It was an excellent evening listening to the opening remarks of my favourite security expert, Maj Gen GD Bakshi (Retd), the keynote of ACM Tipnis, Air Marshal Anil Chopra (Retd), with whom I have had the fortune of being a co-panellist in media discussions, and security experts of media houses, who were also present. Overall, honestly, I came home a richer man, rich with perspectives, enlarged vision of activities that could impinge upon security. This was followed by our friends in the media who are on security briefs. They highlighted the need for upping the ante on the perception war in addition to conventional strikes. It was emphasised by one about how after every story he receives friend requests from pretty women on social media, which would betray an hidden agenda. I was reminded of the case of Vishal Upadhyay, son of a brigadier, who became a gullible victim of social media trapping, and later got caught for espionage and is serving a sentence. I had processed the prosecution sanction for this case, and so recall the entire facts. Similarly, I have already shared in the media how many bureaucrats, politicians, media personnel had been honey trapped and later blackmailed into compromising their positions, solemnizing nikah by girls who were actually call girls from Karachi, planted by the Pakistani ISI, etc. Hence, I felt it was a secondment of what I said. Another gentleman from the media had also emphasised on the media disinformation being effected by Pakistan-sponsored groups deeply working in India. He explained the case of a Kashmiri student assembling his fellow students in a Bangalore college and seeking to play on alleged human rights violations in Kashmir and spread such falsehoods. Hence, it was unanimously suggested that we need to enlarge our counter-activities into the domain beyond the forces, like countering disinformation, cultivating social media warriors to put the truth, counter the false narrative of DGISPR of Pakistan Army, etc. Pakistani ecosystem different While agreeing with the suggestion of such persons with hands on exposure, I have certain observations to make. Firstly, the institutional structure in democratic India is different from Pakistan. Their ISI is subservient to the Army, chief of ISI is a Pakistani Army officer appointed by the Army, whereas our intelligence agencies are not subservient to any other force. Their Army also has omnibus presence and power in governance, which is the not the case in India. In such circumstance, he Pakistan Army can appropriate to itself any proportion of available national resources. How even the Prime Minister is subservient to Army in Pakistan has already been dealt with in an earlier piece. Budget for security defence as well as police grant Indian democratic ethos and ecosystem cannot enable unrestricted resources for the defence budget. Not just that, how many of us know that Indian defence budget is just 1.5% of the GDP, with additional about 1% for under police grant, out of which only a small portion goes to paramilitary forces? Even out of this in the MHA grant, a share is allotted to SPG and NSG - which are manifested with guarding he VIPs of the country - and the NIA, which is the post-operative investigative arm. Hence, for such media and social media initiative, there are no funds available in the present budget. Having said that, there have even been cases where budgets made available for such contingencies have been used at the minister's behest in 2005, to revive some organisation that had gone defunct in 1953 in a bid to prove a narrative on terror the then-government was pursuing. These are facts which are true, and can be corroborated. Hence, a conscious decision should be made to increase the budget on security for defence and police grant aggregated to a minimum of 5% of GDP. There is a need for raising the number air squadrons to 55 over the next five years, raising of new battalions in the Army and Central paramilitary forces, and introduction of fresh fleets in the Navy and Coast Guard. Besides, upgraded training is also essential. No new cantonments have come up after Independence, and therefore, new cantonments and enclaves, air force stations need to be raised. The acquisition of state-of-the-art arms, air power and fleet power have to be taken up on war footing. All these need money. Constitutional fine tuning Further emphasis of the strategy should be pro-active and not reactive. We should not have to wait for Uri, Pathankot or Pulwama for retributive action. Based on intelligence inputs, we should go all out for pre-empting. For this, some constitutional modifications are required. While law, police and public order continue to be under List II of State List of Schedule VII of the Indian Constitution, a new entry under List III Concurrent List should be introduced under the head of 'Counter Militancy/Terrorism/Naxalism'. This will empower the Central government in directly intervening in cases where state governments are not taking adequate action. This had happened in the case of attacks on district courts in UP on 22.11.2007, where in spite of intelligence inputs being shared on three specific occasions, the state government did not take any action for political reasons, and avoidable multiple attacks occurred in Jaunpur, Lucknow and Varanasi. Even the German Bakery attack in Pune on 13.2.2010 could have also been averted if the Centre was empowered. These are structural reforms, both in terms of empowerment and reinforcement of resource power that needs urgent attention. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.) NEW DELHI: An epic family battle has reportedly taken its toll on a favourite summer drink - Rooh Afza. With Hamdard Pakistan jumping into the fray arguing that it can provide backup for the holy month of Ramadan where Rooh Afza appears to have vanished from kirana shops, it makes sense to track the reasons behind the halted production. The Rs 400-crore rose flavoured brand has enormous salience and is a pan-Indian favourite in the summer months. Hamdard Labs which is the company behind the brand is facing a shortage of key ingredients which, it claims, is behind the supply bottlenecks. Hamdard founder Hakim Hafiz Abdul Majeed`s grandson Abdul Majeet, it is beleived, is in a conflict with his cousin Hammad Ahmed. This is taking its toll on the business. Speculation is rife that the 450,000 retailers who stock the popular indigenous drink are in a panic because its maximum sales take place during `iftari` or the breaking of the fast. Production has been stopped since last November. Hundreds of tweets rolled in about the drink being an integral part of an iftar. Tweep @vrishtibeniwal posted: "Breaking the fast in the evening, iftar, has traditionally consisted of pakoras (fritters), fruit chaat (fruit salad), dates and Rooh Afza. An iftari without Rooh Afza is just not the same." While, Twitter user @Tanima wrote about the sentiments and memories attached to the drink: "I don`t think I like Rooh Afza as much as I like the nostalgia attached to it. It tastes of school summer vacations and those hot afternoons when there was no AC and these simple respites were enough to keep us happy." Dismissing any rift within the family, Mansoor Ali, chief sales and marketing officer at Hamdard, according to a report by The Economic Times said, "We are facing supply constraints of certain herbal ingredients. We hope to fix the demand-supply gap within a week." But the drink with a history of uninterrupted supply disappearing from the shelves has led to major speculation which cannot be without truth. Gulf News in June 2016 had traced the geneology of the drink -- In 1908, in the bylanes of Old Delhi, Hakim Hafiz Abdul Majeed decided to create a herbal mix that would help Delhi`s masses stay cool in summer. Selecting herbs and syrups from traditional Unani medicine, he created a drink that would help counter heat strokes, bring down palpitation and prevent water loss. He named it Rooh Afza, which in Urdu literally meant something that refreshes the soul. Mirza Noor Ahmad, an artist, prepared the labels of Rooh Afza in several colours in 1910. Such colourful prints could not be processed in Delhi then. It was, therefore, printed under special arrangement by the Bolton Press of the Parsees of Bombay (Mumbai). A few decades later, Abdul Majeed decided to turn this medicament into a drink. The reception to the first batch ever made of Rooh Afza was an indicator of its future. "When they actually made Rooh Afza for the first time, the flavour and the smell were so enticing that a crowd began to gather around asking, `Ho kya raha hai?` (what is happening?). The whole batch got sold off within an hour," Abdul Majeeb, the great grandson of Hakim Hafiz Abdul Majeed, told Gulf News. Today, he is the CEO of Hamdard India, continuing the family`s work in offering affordable medical care to the masses. The partition of India was the turning point, which went on to divide not just the family but Rooh Afza as well. "In 1947, most of the family travelled to Pakistan. Only my grandfather, Hakeem Abdul Hameed, and his two sons stayed. Even as his younger brother, Hakim Mohammad Said, went to Pakistan, my grandfather said, `I will not be able to leave India because it is my motherland`," Abdul Majeeb said. With one brother in India and the other in Pakistan, they both continued to carry on the legacy left behind by their father on their own. While the business was already established in India, Mohammad Said faced a lot of hardships launching Rooh Afza in Pakistan. Sadia Rashid, chairperson of Hamdard Laboratories (Waqf) Pakistan and president of Hamdard Foundation Pakistan, told Gulf News: "My father (Mohammad Said) migrated to Pakistan, on January 9, 1948. The challenges of a fledgling country and a lack of means posed difficulties ... he laid the foundation of Hamdard Pakistan in two rented rooms in Karachi`s old area of Arambagh, with Rs 12 (Dh0.42) worth of rented furniture." In 1953, Hamdard Laboratories Pakistan finally became lucrative, and it was converted into a waqf or a Muslim endowment entity. According to her, the brand name was "taken from the poetic book `Masnavi Gulzar e Nasim` by Pandit Dia Shankar Nasim". Rooh Afza was a character in the book. Apart from the India and Pakistan, Hamdard also has a presence in Bangladesh. Rashid said: "My father (Mohammad Said) had opened a branch of Hamdard in former East Pakistan. After the creation of Bangladesh, instead of winding up that office and plant, he gifted that to the people of Bangladesh to be run and managed by its workers." Mumbai: India will witness an addition of 11.5 lakh jobs in the first half of 2019-20, led by travel, hospitality and BPO/ITeS, according to a report. "The positive outlook created by the stock market rally and increased investments seems to be having a corresponding impact on the employment outlook. It has revived the net employment outlook which had witnessed a drop of 2 percent in the last half year to a 3 percent rise in the current half year," TeamLease Services executive vice president Rituparna Chakraborty said. The buoyancy witnessed will also translate positively on the job creation front and, in fact, around 11.5 lakh new jobs will be created in the formal sector, Chakraborty said quoting 'Employment Outlook' report. "Retail, logistic, educational services and fast moving consumer goods and durables alone will add around 1.66 lakh, 1.49 lakh, 1.17 lakh and 1.10 lakh jobs respectively," she added. The report is based on survey across 19 sectors and 14 geographies among 775 enterprises in India and 85 employers across the globe to evaluate employment outlook trends. It revealed that 11 out of the 19 sectors surveyed project an increase in net employment outlook, while 8 sectors anticipate a decrease in outlook. Similarly, from a geography point of view also the net employment outlook stands positive. A key contributor to the positive employment outlook has been the tier-II geographies, which apprehend a 5 percent increase in hiring sentiment, followed by tier III towns and rural area where hiring in projected to increase by 2 percent each. The positivity is not restricted to sector and geographies, it is promising across hierarchies as well, except for senior-levels, it added. The outlook for mid-levels is set to grow by 4 percent and the entry and junior levels by 3 percent each. Further, the report also estimated a 5 percent jump in hiring across medium sized businesses while large and small enterprises are expected to witness a growth of 2 percent and 1 percent, respectively. However, from a city drill down, the net employment outlook is a mixed bag with 7 out of the 14 cities covered in the audit indicating negative sentiments. Pune (5 percent), Coimbatore (4 percent) and Indore (4 percent) are on the upward trajectory, while Kochi (-4 percent), Gurugram (-4 percent) and Hyderabad are pulling the growth momentum downward, the report said. On attrition trends, the report revealed that out of the 19 sectors surveyed, attrition has significantly dropped in five sectors, including construction and real estate, IT, KPO, telecommunication and travel and hospitality in April- September 2018-19 compared to October-March, 2018-19. Attrition in some sectors remained stagnant but increased in five sectors - agriculture and agrochemicals, educational services, FMCG and financial services and retail). Attrition in BPO/ITeS was at a 19.12 percent and e-commerce and tech start-ups at 16.17 percent. An Indian Army helicopter on Wednesday made an emergency landing at a field in Nagaon district of central Assam. The Cheetah helicopter of Indian Air Force as flying from Dimapur in Nagaland towards Missamari when it made the emergency landing. The chopper made the emergency landing after it developed a technical snag. Army sources said that all three crew members are safe. Cheetah are high-performance choppers, which are capable of operating over a very wide range of weight, centre of gravity and altitude conditions. The five-seater Cheetah helicopter holds the world record in high altitude flying among all categories of helicopters. It is powered by Artouste - III B turbo shaft engine. Earlier on Wednesday, a Singapore Airlines plane with 228 people onboard made an emergency landing at Delhi airport after suffering a glitch with its nose wheel. A passenger onboard A380-800 aircraft said the plane suffered a problem with its nose wheel and was towed away to the terminal. Live TV The nosewheel is the wheel present under the front of the plane and is useful in supporting the weight of the aircraft. The nosewheel plays an important role during landing of the plane. Several planes have crashed in the past due to problems with the nosewheel. In most of these accidents, the nosewheel either remained off center or got jammed while retracting or before touch down. Aviation experts said that nosewheel and back wheels of planes are checked thoroughly during inspection before flight to look for possible technical or mechanical errors. New Delhi: Taking time out of his hectic election campaigning schedule, Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke exclusively in an interview with Zee News editor-in-chief Sudhir Chaudhary. PM Modi discussed a wide range of issues besides expressing confidence that the NDA will get more than 272 seats in the Lok Sabha and will form the government at the Centre. Asked if he had any 'Plan B' ready in case the NDA fails to get the desired number of seats in the election, Modi replied that he has only one plan with him - "After the counting day, NDA will hold a meeting over the leadership and the President will call us for the oath-taking ceremony." LIVE TV: Watch PM Modi's interview on Zee News today at 8 PM Instead, PM Modi asked Choudhary to begin preparing a strategy on how to cover the event, both on national as well as global level. The Prime Minister also spoke about how the Opposition parties have indulged in electoral mudslinging this time and are constantly targeting him and calling him names. Taking a dig at West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, Modi said that the latter has refused to accept him as Prime Minister, thus insulting the Constitution. LIVE TV: Watch PM Modi's interview on Zee News today at 8 PM Stay tuned for the 'pure political' interview of PM Modi with Sudhir Chaudhary, which will air at 8 pm on Thursday evening exclusively on Zee News. New Delhi: Union Minister Nitin Gadkari once again raked up the Indus Water Treaty issue and said that India is studying the water sharing agreement and is mulling on the prospects of stopping the flow of river water to Pakistan in the backdrop of its continuous support to terrorism. The Minister for Water Resources said, "Water is going to Pakistan from three rivers and we don't want to stop that. But the basis of water treaty between India and Pakistan were peaceful relations and friendship which have completely vanished. So we are not bound to follow this treaty." Gadkari, while deterring to stop river water to Pakistan, said India is not bound to follow the Indus water treaty as peaceful relations no longer exist between the two countries. "Pakistan is continuously supporting terrorists. If Pakistan doesn't stops terrorism, we won't have any other option but to stop river water to Pakistan. So India has started internally studying it. That water will go to Haryana, Punjab and Rajasthan," he said. In February, a week after the Pulwama terror attack, Gadkari said that "Pakistan has destroyed the spirit of Indus Waters Treaty" and claimed that people were requesting him to "not to give even a drop of India's water to Islamabad". "The country will divert water from eastern rivers and supply it to its people in Jammu and Kashmir and Punjab states," he had said. Under the Indus Waters Treaty, signed by former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru and former Pakistan President Ayub Khan in 1960, control over the water flowing in three eastern rivers of India - the Beas, the Ravi and the Sutlej with the mean flow of 33 million acre-feet (MAF) was given to India. Whereas the control over the water flowing in three western rivers of India - the Indus, the Chenab and the Jhelum with the mean flow of 80 MAF -- was given to Pakistan. Supreme Court (SC) on Thursday expressed its willingness to meet Sreyashi Dutt, wife of former senior police officer Gaurav Dutt, who allegedly committed suicide and blamed West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for pushing him to take the extreme step in his suicide note. The top court said that it wants to meet Sreyashi Dutt in order to ascertain why she is withdrawing her plea for an independent inquiry. Supreme Court says it wants to meet Sreyashi Dutt, wife of former senior police officer Gaurav Dutt, who allegedly committed suicide & named West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee in suicide note. SC says it wants to ascertain why she wants to withdraw her plea for independent inquiry pic.twitter.com/sHsc0on1GP ANI (@ANI) May 9, 2019 It is to be noted that Sreyashi Dutt has decided to withdraw her petition saying she was not in a proper mental condition when she approached the apex court. Gaurav Dutt committed suicide on Febaruary 19 by slitting his wrist at his home. Dutt, a retired Indian Police Service (IPS) officer from the West Bengal cadre, who committed suicide, held Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee "directly responsible" for abetting his suicide. Dutt had taken voluntary retirement last year. In his suicide note, he said that Mamata was "directly responsible" for forcing him to commit suicide by "victimising" him for more than ten years. "Present CM WB has victimised me for 10 years and went all out to demoralise me due to her single-minded vendetta against me for reasons best known to her," he wrote in the suicide note. Dutt had also claimed that Mamata did not close two pending cases of corruption against him, which blocked his Rs 70 lakh due earnings following retirement. In 2010, Dutt was sent on compulsory leave after a male constable accused him of sexual abuse. In his suicide note, Dutt mentioned that he was singled out for bias and prejudice by the bureaucracy and the senior police officers. Dutt had also claimed in his note that he was refused leave and was not sent on deputation. Terming the present situation in the state as "toxic and hellish", Dutt had said that no IPS officer in West Bengal has the guts to open his mouth or speak his mind. NEW DELHI: Nearly two months after it referred the Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid title dispute case to a three-member mediation panel, the Supreme Court will take up its report on Friday. According to PTI, the mediation panel's report on the Ayodhya dispute case will come up for hearing in the Supreme Court on Friday. Live TV The matter will be heard by a Constitution Bench comprising of Chief Justice of India (CJI) Ranjan Gogoi and judges SA Bobde, Dr DY Chandrachud, Ashok Bhushan and Abdul Nazeer. The top court had on March 8 referred the Ayodhya dispute case for mediation to a panel headed by retired Supreme Court judge Justice Fakkir Mohamed Ibrahim Kalifulla after it noted the lack of consensus between the parties in the matter. In its previous order, the apex court had directed proceedings to be completed within eight weeks. The other two members of the panel are spiritual guru Sri Sri Ravi Shankar and senior advocate Sriram Panchu. The SC's Constitution Bench had referred the Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid land dispute case for a court-appointed and monitored mediation to find a 'permanent solution'. The mediation process will be held in Faizabad, it said in its order. The top court also said that the mediation proceedings should be held on-camera. "Court monitored mediation proceedings will be confidential," Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi said. ''It will begin within a week and is meant to be completed in eight weeks. The first status report on mediation is supposed to be given within four weeks,'' the top court said. In its order, the Supreme Court said, ''Mediators can co-opt more on the panel if necessary. Uttar Pradesh government will provide mediators all the facilities in Faizabad. Mediators can seek further legal assistance as and when required.'' Fourteen appeals have been filed in the apex court against the 2010 Allahabad High Court judgment, delivered in four civil suits, that the 2.77-acre land in Ayodhya be partitioned equally among the three parties - the Sunni Waqf Board, the Nirmohi Akhara and Ram Lalla. NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday expressed optimism that on the basis of the work done by the BJP-led NDA government at the centre in the past five years, the ruling alliance will once again seize power with a much bigger mandate than the 2014 polls after the conclusion of the ongoing Lok Sabha election 2019. From allegations and counter-allegations, fair play in politics to personal attacks on him, the PM spoke on a host of issues outlining his vision for the country in an exclusive interview with Zee News Editor-in-Chief Sudhir Chaudhary. When asked about NDA's poll prospects in view 'mahagathbandhan' and other political re-alignment in the country, the PM exuded confidence that the BJP-led alliance will sweep the 2019 Lok Sabha election and get more than 272 seats it got in 2014 polls. Live TV I am fully confident that the people of this country will give us a much bigger mandate than 2014, the Prime Minister said. While responding to question whether the 'Narendra Modi wave has vanished this time, he said, ''the people of this country have full faith in the work done by the Narendra Modi government. The picture will be clear after May 23. When asked as to why he appears confident of NDA's return with a much stronger mandate in 2019, the Prime Minister said, I have travelled widely. I know the people of this country want a strong and decisive government We have worked extensively with the state governments. I can feel the pulse of our countrymen. People of India want a strong and decisive government and they know who is capable of delivering that, the PM added. Responding to a question on how would he deal with the situation if the BJP-led NDA falls short of the magic mark, the PM said, ''There is no plan A, B or C. Results will come on May 23 which will be followed by a meeting of the NDA allies to elect its leader. After that, the President will invite us to form the government. I advise you and your channel to plan how to cover the oath ceremony.'' When asked about the performance of the BJP and the NDA allies in those states where they failed last time, the PM said, ''Based on the feedback from across the country, I think the BJP and NDA's total tally will only increase after the results. The opposition is day-dreaming of ousting Modi, their dream will be shattered on May 23, PM Modi said. PM Modi further said that 'Aayega to Modi hi' is not a joke but a reality. Responding to the opposition's repeated claims regarding the EVM malfunctioning, the PM said, ''People have started preparing for their impending defeat.'' ''It is like the players who protest in front of the umpire after getting out,'' the PM stated. To a question on the Opposition leaders making personal attacks on him, the PM said, ''It hurts when people abuse me and use all those harsh words against me, but I am used to it now.'' During the interview, the PM recalled that in 2014, the first FIR was filed against him when he had gone to vote in Varanasi. PM said that EC was extremely active in taking action over an allegation. PM also recalled how roadshows in Varanasi were cancelled in 2014 and, this time too, his rallies were denied permission by the West Bengal government. On his equation with West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, the PM said, ''I have no problems with Mamata Ji, but I can't see the way West Bengal is being ruled and ruined.'' It's OK if you don't treat me as your leader, but not treating me as the PM, how is this justified. Is it not an insult to the Constitution,'' the PM asked. The PM also attacked the Congress' culture of dynasty politics, which he said ''was a big threat to democracy in India.'' PM Modi also denied making any allegations against former PM Rajiv Gandhi but said that he only raised those issues which rocked his government like the Bofors case, the Bhopal gas tragedy or 1984 anti-Sikh riots case. On questions of Opposition demanding proof of the surgical strike and the Balakot strike, the PM said it's pity that rather praising the government for its bold steps, his rivals keep asking for the evidence. ''Peace is not meant for the weak..only the powerful and capable succeed in establishing peace. It is important for India to be seen as a powerful nation. Otherwise, there will be no stability, no peace in this region,'' the PM said. While maintaining that it is important to uproot the evil of terrorism, the PM said the war is no solution for it. New Delhi: Top leaders and political parties continued with their high-octane electioneering across the country and held rallies and roadshows on Thursday. Among other developments, PM Narendra Modi took time from his hectic campaigning schedule and spoke exclusively in an interview with Zee News editor-in-chief Sudhir Chaudhary. PM Modi discussed a wide range of issues besides expressing confidence that the NDA will get more than 272 seats in the Lok Sabha and will form the government at the Centre. The Prime Minister also spoke about how the Opposition parties have indulged in electoral mudslinging this time and are constantly targeting him and calling him names. Taking a dig at West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, PM Modi said that the latter has refused to accept him as Prime Minister, thus insulting the Constitution In the sixth phase of the election, voting will be in Bihar, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal and also on all Lok Sabha constituencies in Haryana and Delhi. Live TV Thank you for joining us. Do come back again on Friday (May 10) for live updates of Lok Sabha election 2019. Here are the live updates on Lok Sabha election from May 9 :- * Taking into consideration past poll violence and that the 8 constituencies going to vote are in left-wing extremist areas, around 602 Central Armed Police Forces are being deployed, also 112 state armed police from different states are being deployed: IG CRPF(West Bengal) S Ravindran. * I saw AAP posters 'hum kaam karte hain, wo kaam rokte hain'. You didn't say this earlier when you contested elections. You are in power, small traders - Delhi's backbone being broken, sealing underway and you say can't do anything? Congress had stopped this in Parliament: Rahul Gandhi. R Gandhi: I saw AAP posters 'hum kaam karte hain, wo kaam rokte hain'. You didn't say this earlier when you contested elections. You are in power, small traders - Delhi's backbone being broken, sealing underway&you say can't do anything? Congress had stopped this in Parliament. https://t.co/yIwfks4ISn ANI (@ANI) May 9, 2019 * In last elections AAP's slogan in Delhi was 'Dilli mein CM Kejriwal ji, Hindustan mein PM Narendra Modi ji'. They'd opened gates for Narendra Modi. Congress and I have fought Narendra Modi ji across the country. You won't hear 'Chowkidar chor hai' in AAP office: Rahul Gandhi. * Why was sealing in Delhi and GST implemented? It was a strategy by Narendra Modi to finish the small shopkeepers, small businessmen and traders: Rahul Gandhi in Delhi. * Election Commission has issued a notice to Computer Baba after a complaint by BJP alleging that he was campaigning for Congress Bhopal candidate Digvijaya Singh and fanning communal sentiments in MP. He has to reply within 24 hours. * Congress, Mayawati, Akhilesh cannot tolerate that a man from backward caste became PM: Amit Shah * Actor Sunny Deol holds a roadshow in Hari Nagar and Subhash Nagar areas. BJP West Delhi candidate Parvesh Verma also present. *There is no plan B or C. Results will come on May 23 which will be followed by a meeting of the NDA allies to elect its leader. After that, the President will invite us to form the government. I advise you and your channel to plan how to cover the oath ceremony: PM Delhi: Sunny Deol holds a roadshow in Hari Nagar and Subhash Nagar areas. BJP West Delhi candidate Parvesh Verma also present #LokSabhaElections2019 pic.twitter.com/QHyBLj21yV ANI (@ANI) May 9, 2019 * I know that war is no solution but we will have to take tough calls: PM Modi on Balakot airstrikes * It is important to attack and uproot the evil of terrorism. * There was a time when I use to think a lot before taking a decision. But now, I have the experience of running a democratically elected government for five years. Today, I don't hesitate in taking any decision: PM. * We don't live for our own welfare, comfort. For us, the welfare of the country is supreme: PM * Actually, the opposition is scared of me and that is the reason for their unity: PM * If we talk about Rajiv Gandhi's tenure, then questions will be asked about the Bofors case, Bhopal gas tragedy, 1984 anti-Sikh riots. Congress has to answer all these questions: PM * I didn't make any new allegations against Rajiv Ji. I just said what had happened during his rule as Prime Minister back then: PM on Congress' renewed attack on him * You know, I was recently denied permission by the West Bengal govt for holding rallies, what is all this: PM * I have nothing personal against Mamata Ji, but I can't see the destruction of West Bengal: PM * You talk about Pakistan's PM, but you refuse to hold your own PM with such regard: PM * Don't treat me as your leader, but refusing to treat me as the PM how can this be justified, asks PM * Mamata Ji refuses to treat me as PM, is it not an insult to the Constitution, says PM Modi on his equation with West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. * Voters of this country have full faith in the work done by our government: PM * People of this country has seen that the Modi government has fully utilised each and every day for the welfare of this country: PM * Dynasty politics poses a big threat for democracy, says PM Modi * It's important to get rid of Congress' dynasty culture: PM * We have come from the most backward segments of our society...have faced difficulties and suffered humiliation. Actually, it is the mentality of the 'namdaars' to abuse those who are from the backward and marginalised class. * It hurts when people abuse me, but I am now used to it, says PM * On allegations, accusations and counter-accusations and mudslinging by his political detractors, PM Modi says, ''All the bitter and abusive words in the dictionary are spoken for me these days.'' * Today, the whole world admires and appreciates India's robust democracy. But in our country, we have people who are busy in making allegations against us. For a long time, the opposition controlled and managed the vital institutions of the country. Now, under NDA government, all vital institutions are working freely: PM * I think politics should be done with values and firm conviction: PM Modi * Replying to a question on missing 'Modi wave' in 2019 Lok Sabha polls, PM Modi says, ''ask the people of India, they will tell which wave is currently sweeping the country.'' * I am fully confident that people of this country will give us a much bigger mandate than 2014: PM * We have worked extensively with state governments. I can feel the pulse of our countrymen: PM * I have travelled widely. I know the people of this country want a strong and decisive government. They are day-dreaming: PM Modi * PM Modi speaks to Zee News on a host of issues; Watch the 'purely political' interview LIVE at 8 PM. * Congress dubs BJP as 'Bahut Jhooth Party' over row Rahul Gandhi citizenship. * Bharatiya Janata Party president Amit Shah visited Garhwa Ghat Ashram in Varanasi. Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) President Amit Shah today visited Garhwa Ghat Ashram in Varanasi. pic.twitter.com/3ak2mFNQUV ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) May 9, 2019 * Congress General Secy for UP East Priyanka Vadra Gandhi holds a roadshow in Sultanpur along with party candidate Sanjay Singh. Union Minister Maneka Gandhi is contesting from the constituency as BJP candidate. Congress General Secy for UP East Priyanka Vadra Gandhi holds a roadshow in Sultanpur along with party candidate Sanjay Singh. Union Minister Maneka Gandhi is contesting from the constituency as BJP candidate. pic.twitter.com/3V8rI2JiGf ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) May 9, 2019 * Gautam Gambhir rejects allegations made AAP's Atishi, says will file a defamation case against Arvind Kejriwal's party. * DCW takes cognizance of 'pamphlet war' between AAP's Atishi, BJP's Gautam Gambhir, seeks reply from DCP, East Delhi. * No bomb blasts after 2014; we attacked terrorists in Pakistan: PM Narendra Modi in Azamgarh rally. Tap to read. * I challenge you (PM Modi) if you can prove your allegations that one of us is part of coal mafia, I will withdraw all my 42 candidates. If you are lying, you have to hold your ears and do a hundred sit ups before the public: West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee in Bankura. West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee in Bankura: I challenge you (PM Modi) if you can prove your allegations that one of us is part of coal mafia, I will withdraw all my 42 candidates. If you are lying, you have to hold your ears and do a hundred sit ups before public. pic.twitter.com/mBQT59MP4J ANI (@ANI) May 9, 2019 * How were bomb blasts brought under control in all cities after 2014? How have terror activities been restricted only to J&K now? It is because our govt prioritised national interest. We entered Pakistan and attacked terrorists: PM Modi in Azamgarh. * PM Modi addressing an election rally in Azamgarh. * TDP chief N Chandrababu Naidu campaigns for Mamata Banerjee, calls her 'Bengal tiger'. Tap to read. * AAP East Delhi LS seat candidate Atishi breaks down during a press conference alleging BJP's Gautam Gambhir of distributing pamphlets with derogatory remarks against her says, "They've shown how low they can stoop. Pamphlet states that 'she is a very good example of a mixed breed'." - WATCH AAP East Delhi LS seat candidate Atishi breaks down during a press conference alleging BJP's Gautam Gambhir of distributing pamphlets with derogatory remarks against her says,"They've shown how low they can stoop.Pamphlet states that 'she is very good example of a mixed breed'." pic.twitter.com/z14MXXh574 ANI (@ANI) May 9, 2019 * Inse bada kaayar, inse kamzor Pradhanmantri maine zindagi mein nahi dekha hai. Rajnaitik shakti bade bade prachaar se nahi aati hai, TV pe dikhaane se nahi aati hai: Priyanka Gandhi slams PM Modi in Pratapgarh rally. * Re-poll to be held in 13 polling stations in the state, where Lok Sabha elections were held on April 18. Re-poll will be conducted on May 19 in 8 polling stations in Dharmapuri, 2 in Theni and 1 each in Cuddalore, Tiruvallur & Erode: Tamil Nadu Chief Electoral Officer Satyabrata Sahoo. * Congress leader Sheila Dikshit rejects senior advocate HS Phoolka's claims that PMO ordered to 'kill' during 1984 anti-Sikh riots in Delhi, says, ''Why would Rajiv Gandhi do that? His mother had been killed, he was deeply hurt. Does the BJP act like this? I am really disappointed.'' Congress leader Sheila Dikshit on senior advocate HS Phoolka's claims that PMO ordered to 'kill' during 1984 anti-Sikh riots in Delhi: Why would Rajiv Gandhi do that? His mother had been killed, he was deeply hurt. Does the BJP act like this? I am really disappointed. pic.twitter.com/mmGpiUgiQ4 ANI (@ANI) May 9, 2019 * Watch - Rahul Gandhi attacks Modi govt in Sirsa rally. #WATCH: Rahul Gandhi says in Haryana's Sirsa "Agar aapko Rajiv Gandhi ji aur meri baat karni hai aap zaroor kijiye, dil khol ke kijiye. Magar janta ko samjha dijiye ki aapne Rafale maamle mein kya kiya kya nahi kiy...jo vaada kiya tha 2 cr yuvaon ko rozgar ka wo poora nahi kiya" pic.twitter.com/Ui1dSrqvYs ANI (@ANI) May 9, 2019 * Former IAS officer of Punjab cadre, SS Channy, joins BJP in presence of Union Minister Nitin Gadkari. Former IAS officer of Punjab cadre, SS Channy, joins Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in presence of Union Minister Nitin Gadkari pic.twitter.com/XcaCXBhWDS ANI (@ANI) May 9, 2019 * I want to tell the youth and farmers in Sirsa, Narendra Modi made false promises to you, lied to you about Rs 15 lakh, but we promise you will get 3,60,000 in your bank account (in 5 years): Rahul Gandhi in Haryana. Congress President Rahul Gandhi in Sirsa, Haryana: I want to tell the youth & farmers in Sirsa, Narendra Modi made false promises to you, lied to you about Rs 15 lakh, but we promise you will get 3,60,000 in your bank account (in 5 years). https://t.co/bzHyV7yjjL ANI (@ANI) May 9, 2019 * The Congress hits back at PM Modi for alleging that the late Rajiv Gandhi used INS Viraat as 'personal taxi' on a family vacation, saying he is a 'serial liar' who does not have the courage to fight elections on issues such as unemployment and demonetisation. * Ridiculing West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for saying that she wanted to give "a tight slap of democracy" to him, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said her slap will be a blessing to him but asked whether Banerjee had the guts to slap those who looted poor people in the name of chit funds. * There are about 56 abuse words used by the Congress against PM Modi and BJP, says Nitin Gadkari during a press conference. * Bhopal: Congress candidate from Bhopal Lok Sabha seat, Digvijaya Singh, offers prayers at Gayatri Temple. Bhopal: Congress candidate from Bhopal Lok Sabha seat, Digvijaya Singh, offers prayers at Gayatri Temple. #MadhyaPradesh pic.twitter.com/XaHQfHlnvq ANI (@ANI) May 9, 2019 * PM Modi addresses a rally in West Bengal's Purulia, says "I want to assure you, that the infiltrators that 'Didi' and TMC have made their cadres, they will be identified. Those who trouble our daughters and the cultured Bengalis here, they will be identified." Watch: #WATCH PM Modi in Purulia, "Mujhe bataya gaya hai ki yahan Didi ne kahan hai ki woh Modi ko thapad maarna chahti hain. Didi' o' Mamata Didi mein toh aapko didi kehta hun, aapka aadar karta hun, aapka thapad bhi mere liye ashirwaad ban jaayega, woh bhi khalunga." pic.twitter.com/DVZ8MxLVCg ANI (@ANI) May 9, 2019 * Supreme Court rejects dismissed BSF constable Tej Bahadur Yadav's appeal challenging the Election Commission's decision to reject his nomination from Varanasi Lok Sabha constituency, where the election is due on May 12. A bench headed by CJI Gogoi dismissing the plea said, "We dont find any merit to entertain this petition." * Supreme Court dismisses the petition seeking to direct the Election Commission of India to debar Congress President Rahul Gandhi from contesting the Lok Sabha polls after he had voluntarily acquired British nationality. * Election Commission starts probe in Computer Baba's 'Hatyog' for Digvijaya Singh's victory in Bhopal. Read full report * BJP South Delhi candidate Ramesh Bidhuri on abusing Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal: I will say this today as well. I'll say it again and again. I don't think I said anything wrong. Agar aap 'gau' (cow) ko 'gau' nahi kahoge, chuhe ko chuha nahi kahoge, gadhe ko gadha nahi kahoge, to kya kahoge. BJP South Delhi candidate Ramesh Bidhuri on abusing Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal: I'll say this today as well.I'll say it again & again. I don't think I said anything wrong. Agar aap gau (cow) ko gau nahi kahoge, chuhe ko chuha nahi kahoge, gadhe ko gadha nahi kahoge, to kya kahoge pic.twitter.com/8GsIJezrCT ANI (@ANI) May 9, 2019 * On Congress and DMK alliance, Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley tweeted: From May 1991 to 2004, the Congress blamed its present ally the DMK for Rajiv Gandhi's assassination. It even withdrew support from the United Front government on this ground. 28 years later, today a desperate Congress has discovered a BJP role. From May 1991 till 2004, the Congress blamed its present ally the DMK for Shri Rajiv Gandhi's assassination. It even withdrew support from the United Front government on this ground. 28 years later, today a desperate Congress has discovered a BJP role. Chowkidar Arun Jaitley (@arunjaitley) May 9, 2019 * Supreme Court will on Thursday hear a petition filed by sacked BSF trooper Tej Bahadur Yadav on the Election Commission's decision to cancel his candidature from the Varanasi Lok Sabha constituency from where Prime Minister Narendra Modi is contesting. Here's the full list of candidates contesting from Varanasi Lok Sabha constituency. Varanasi will vote in the Lok Sabha election on May 19. PM Modi is seeking his second term in Lok Sabha from here. * Supreme Court refuses to urgently list a petition by CPI(M) on Election Commission's order to hold repolling across 168 polling stations of Tripura West parliamentary constituency. The poll panel has ordered a repolling on 168 booths in Tripura West on May 12, along with the sixth phase of the Lok Sabha election. * AAP spokesperson Raghav Chadha tweeted: Received distressing news of BJP distributing alcohol and cash in various unauthorised colonies and JJ clusters in South Delhi Parliamentary Constituency. Desperate attempts to save votes after 5 years of all Gundaraj and no work? Saddening but not surprising at all. Received distressing news of BJP distributing alcohol and cash in various unauthorised colonies & JJ clusters in South Delhi Parliamentary Constituency. Desperate attempts to save votes after 5 years of all gundaraj and no work? Saddening but not surprising at all. Raghav Chadha (@raghav_chadha) May 9, 2019 * Mamata Didi wants to give me 'democracy slap and clay sweets'. I am used to such insults. Didi has 'Mamata' (affection) for illegal immigrants and foreign artists but she doesn't care about the Adivasis of West Bengal: PM Modi at Bankura * When Cyclone Fani hit West Bengal, I called Didi again and again. But because of her ego, she didn't think it was appropriate to talk to the Prime Minister. The central government wanted to speak to the officers here and help West Bengal but she refused to even hold the meeting: PM Modi at Bankura rally. Here's the list of candidates contesting from the Bankura Lok Sabha constituency * Under the Trinamool Congress regime, all teachers, farmers and people who worship Gods are suffering: PM Modi at Bankura rally. * PM Modi attacks Mamata Banerjee on home turf, says she has betrayed the people of Bengal. "Power drunk Mamata Didi has ruined the state of West Bengal. Now, fearing a loss in the election, she has been bent on destroying West Bengal. They (Trinamool Congress) do not care about people but are only concerned about their interests, relatives, nephews and their colleagues," Modi said at Bankura rally. * Akhilesh Yadav, who is contesting the Lok Sabha election from Azamgarh, told Zee News that the Samajwadi Party did maximum work and took major decisions in Purvanchal. Read full report "We gave the Purvanchal Expressway. However, the Yogi Adityanath government delayed the project for more than two years," he said in an interview. "Both PM Narendra Modi and CM Yogi Adityanath will have to give an account of their work to the people in their constituencies. The BJP has cheated both farmers and people. Due to unemployment and the poor plight of farmers in the state, people will vote against the BJP in the election." * Senior Congress leader Ahmed Patel slammed the BJP for attacking former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi and said that the latter died due to the hatred of BJP-backed VP Singh government in 1991. Read full report * Prakash Ambedkar announces to go all alone in Maharashtra Assembly polls. * BJP candidate Soumitra Khan has been sitting on a dharna outside the Election Commission office in Kolkata since last night demanding a 100 per cent deployment of the central force for the next phase in West Bengal. * An FIR has been lodged against BJP candidate Shankar Lalwani for allegedly violating the Model Code of Conduct (MCC). On April 29, the day he filed his nominations, Lalwani had allegedly offered a cloth with BJP symbol inked on it while praying at a Ganesh Temple in Khajrana. A notice was issued to him after Congress complained to the poll panel against his actions. Read full report * PM Narendra Modi to hold rallies in West Bengal and Uttar Pradesh. He will address two rallies in Bengal and three in Uttar Pradesh. 1000 hrs: Bankuda in West Bengal 1200 hrs:Purulia in West Bengal 1510 hrs: Azamgarh 1645 hrs: TD College in Jaunpur, Uttar Pradesh 1840 hrs: Prayagraj * Priyanka Gandhi rallies and roadshow in Uttar Pradesh 1330 hrs- 1430 hrs: Public meeting, Pratapgarh 1500 hrs-1600 hrs: Public meeting, Jaunpur 1630 hrs-1800 hrs: Roadshow at Sultanpur * Amit Shah to hold rallies in Uttar Pradesh: He will be in Shrwasti, Dumariyaganj, Santkabirnagar and Sultanpur Lok Sabha constituencies and will also visit Varanasi. 1100 hrs: Chhota Pared ground, Balrampur in Shrwasti Lok Sabha 1230 hrs: Siddharthnagar in Dumariyaganj LS in support of Jagdambika Pal 1430 hrs: Junior high school maidan, Khalilabad in Santkabir Nagar Lok Sabha 1615 hrs: Khursheed club in Sultanpur 1800 hrs: Will visit Garhwa Ghat,Varanasi * Rahul Gandhi rallies in Madhya Pradesh, Haryana and Delhi 1100 hrs: Sirsa, Haryana 1515 hrs: Beena in Sagar, Madhya Pradesh 1845 hrs: Delhi * Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman to hold a press conference at 1200 hrs in Bhopal. * Rajnath Singh's rally in Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal 1100 hrs at Pratapgarh in UP 1230 hrs Ramnagar RSA Maidan, Kanthi in WB 1445 hrs at Krishna Chandrapur High School Ground, Mathurapur in West Bengal 1705 hrs at Burrabazar , Kolkata (Reporter- Debarati with Live-U 12) * Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu to continue his campaigning for TMC in Kashipur, West Bengal today. He will meet his Bengal counterpart Mamata Banerjee today as part of his efforts for closer coordination between the opposition parties after the Lok Sabha results will be declared on May 23. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu to continue his campaigning for TMC in Kashipur, West Bengal today. (file pic) pic.twitter.com/r0MSsbk4CD ANI (@ANI) May 9, 2019 * Actor-politician Sunny Deol to hold a roadshow in Sirsa at 11 am and in Delhi at 5 pm. * BJP candidate Jaya Prada to address the public in Madhya Pradesh's Datia. * Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav to address a rally in Dumariyaganj. * BSP supremo Mayawati to address a rally in Haryana. * Mamata Banerjee to address 4 rallies in West Bengal - Bankura, Kharagpur, Midnapore and Purulia. In Midnapore, she will hold a roadshow. * In the patriarchal state of Haryana, political parties are not fair with the fairer sex when it comes to the parliamentary elections. Only nine women were elected to Parliament so far. * Responding to former Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan's charges of discrepancies in farm loan waiver, Congress President Rahul Gandhi said the brother and son of Chouhan's uncle are also beneficiaries of the scheme. * Former Delhi University Teachers' Association (DUTA) president Aditya Narayan Misra filed a police complaint, alleging that he has been receiving threatening and abusive phone calls for signing a letter condemning Prime Minister Narendra Modi's remarks on Rajiv Gandhi. From the left are Chung Suk-hwan, deputy minister for national defense policy, Randall Schriver, assistant secretary of defense for Indo-Pacific security affairs at the U.S.' defense department, Takeshi Ishikawa, deputy director-general defense policy bureau of Japan's defense ministry and Marc Knapper, U.S. acting deputy assistant secretary for Japan and Korean affairs. Yonhap By Jung Da-min Senior defense officials from South Korea, the United States and Japan held talks in Seoul, Thursday, to discuss issues related to North Korea, including its launch of multiple projectiles last week, possibly including a short-range ballistic missile. The 11th Defense Trilateral Talks (DTT), an annual meeting for discussions of regional security issues surrounding the Korean Peninsula came five days after North Korea conducted its "new" weapons test. Representing Seoul, Washington and Tokyo were Chung Suk-hwan, deputy minister for national defense policy, Randall Schriver, assistant secretary of defense for Indo-Pacific security affairs at the U.S.' defense department and Takeshi Ishikawa, deputy director-general of the defense policy bureau of Japan's defense ministry, respectively. U.S. Acting Deputy Assistant Secretary for Japan and Korean Affairs Marc Knapper also attended the meeting. The three nations discussed how to deal with the North's military move with a measured response while promoting denuclearization efforts on the Korean Peninsula to establish lasting peace, according to South Korean officials. NEW DELHI: The Election Commission of India (EC) on Wednesday declared "void" the polling held in the second phase on April 18 at polling station no-10, Kamaraj Nagar assembly segment of the Puducherry Parliamentary constituency. The EC issued an order saying that the re-polling will be held on May 12 between 7 am to 6 pm. "After taking all material circumstances into account, the Election Commission hereby declares under Sub-Sections (2) of Section 58 of clause (b) under the Representation of the People Act, 1951 that the poll taken on April 18, 2019, at Polling Station No. 10 of 10-Kamraj Nagar Assembly Segment of Puducherry parliamentary constituency to be void," an order from the EC to the Returning Officer of Puducherry read. The Returning Officer has been directed by the poll panel to take measures aimed at providing wide publicity about repolling in the polling areas. The EC has also asked the Returning Officer to inform political parties and contesting candidates about the fresh poll. Earlier on Tuesday, the EC had ordered repolling in 168 polling stations in 26 assembly constituencies of Tripura (West) constituency. The poll panel took the action after receiving complaints from opposition parties of massive booth capturing and false voting on this seat during phase one of voting on April 11. "Polls taken on April 11 at 168 polling stations of the Tripura West Parliamentary constituency declared void. Repolls to be held on 12th May from 7 am to 5 pm," EC said in a statement. The repolling will be held from 7am-5pm on May 12. Tripura West parliamentary seat had recorded over 81 per cent of voter turnout when the constituency went to polls on April 11. On April 19, Congress and CPI(M) in Tripura approached the poll panel and complained of massive poll rigging and booth capturing in Tripura West constituency. The Election Commission on Wednesday said that it has started an investigation in the 'Hatyog' programme launched by famous Hindu saint Computer Baba in Bhopal. It is to be noted that Computer Baba had started the 'Hatyog' at a ground in Bhopal on Tuesday in order to ensure Congress' candidate Digvijaya Singh's victory in Lok Sabha election. The probe has been started by Collector and District Election Commissioner Sudama Khade on the complaint of BJP. The poll panel will carry on the probe in this matter on three main points. The EC will probe from whom Computer Baba has got the permission to perform 'Hatyog' and when was the permission granted to him. The poll panel will also probe whether Digvijaya Singh had invited Computer Baba and other saints to attend the 'Hatyog'. The third important point which the EC wants to know is that Computer Baba is campaigning for which party and how much money is being spent on his programmes. Computer Baba, who was granted status of minister when Shivraj Singh Chouhan was the chief minister of Madhya Pradesh, started the 'Hatyog' for Digvijaya's victory on Tuesday. Computer Baba, whose real name is Namdeo Das Tyagi, had said that about 5,000-7,000 sadhus will perform pooja for the next three days and pray for Digvijaya's victory. The saints will perform hawan, bhajan and kirtan besides various kinds of yogas meant for specific purposes. Live TV In Bhopal, Singh is facing an intense competition from BJP's Sadhvi Pragya Singh Thakur. Though Sadhvi Pragya is still an accused in 2008 Malegaon blast, the BJP has been backing her to the hilt. The BJP has been claiming that Sadhvi Pragya is a victim of the theory of "saffron terror", which was floated by Singh and other Congress leaders. Polling in Bhopal will take place in the sixth phase on May 12. The counting of votes is scheduled to take place on May 23. Having served at the Centre from 1999 to 2004, the Bharatiya Janata Party-led National Democratic Alliance became the first non-Congress government to have completed its full term in Lok Sabha. As prime minister, Atal Bihari Vajpayee took a series of economic reforms which led to an increase in the country's Gross Domestic Product. A rise in foreign investment, modernisation of infrastructure in the country, more jobs and the growth of the IT industry had changed India's image for good. It was with this image in mind that the BJP felt that it had a strong footing and would win the election if they were called in early. Also Read: History of Lok Sabha elections It is believed that Vajpayee was not convinced to call snap polls, but he gave in to the advice of his consultants who felt that the BJP would come back strongly. Wins in Assembly elections held in key states in 2003 had also given the BJP the confidence of a comeback at the Centre. The Vajpayee government, hence in February, recommended early election, six months ahead of the scheduled polls in October. Exuding confidence, the NDA government took to people an 'India Shining' campaign which it believed reflected the feeling of optimism and progress that the people had due to the decisions taken over the last five years. The campaign, which was intended to project a positive image of India among the international community, even had a mention in the NDA government's Budget speech. However, the manner in which it was rolled out, many called it BJP's marketing campaign where Vajpayee was being projected as a brand. The criticism though was rubbished by the BJP which claimed that the country regarded Vajpayee as a symbol of progress. While the government used India Shining to convince voters to convince them of their work the last five years, the BJP designed another campaign to get up close and personal with the electorate. Vajpayee remained the face of India Shining campaign, but the then deputy prime minister LK Advani started his rath yatra. Called the Bharat Uday Yatra, Advani undertook an 8,500 km-long bus journey which would be completed in 33 days. Though the tide was in favour of the NDA, the Congress was trying its best to better the dismal performance that it had had in the previous elections. The party was pulling out all its trump cards to defeat the BJP and come back to power. For the first time, Congress chief Sonia Gandhi's son Rahul entered electoral politics and was named as the party candidate from Amethi Lok Sabha seat. Sonia's daughter Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, who was a big crowd puller owing to the stark similarities that she had in her look and demeanour with her grandmother Indira Gandhi, was also closely involved in the party's election campaign. While the BJP claimed that it had created a stronger economy with millions of new jobs, Congress rejected the NDA government's assertions and argued that there was no improvement in the lives of the poor people. While BJP's campaign focussed on the political stability, peace with Pakistan, better situation in Kashmir, increasing international status, it failed to touch the nerves of the people who were battling with the poverty issues. Though there were good crop harvests which would have helped the farmers, the government by announcing an early election could not announce the schemes it had planned for the agriculture sector. The Congress caught this missing link in BJP's star-studded campaign and showcased how it cared for the poor and how the there was no improvement in the lives of the landless poor people or those living in the slums under the NDA government. The BJP's plans of early poll suffered the first dent when the Election Commission announced the voting dates in April, at least 75 days after the government's recommendation for early election. The extra time that the Election Commission took to finalise the poll schedule gave the Congress enough leeway to stitch pre-poll alliances to have a strong footing in the electoral race. The election beginning on 20 April was to be held in five phases over three weeks till May 10 to facilitate the movement of electoral officials and security workers. Though the Election Commission had used the Electronic Voting Machines previously in some Assembly elections, it was the first time that the poll body was using them instead of the ballot papers for the Lok Sabha election. Nearly one million electronic voting machines were deployed across the 543 constituencies in the country to record the votes. The exit polls had been predicting BJP's win in the election when the snap polls were announced but as the voting dates got closer, the tide seemed to have been turning against the saffron party. The worst fears of the BJP-led NDA came true when the counting of the EVMs was held on May 13. (Read the tally of parties in 1999 Lok Sabha election) The BJP managed to secure just 138 seats as against the 182 seats that it had won in the last election. At least five members of the Vajpayee Cabinet, including the foreign minister and the education minister, could not win their seats. The BJP suffered big losses in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar where it bagged just 10 and 5 seats as opposed to its 1999 tally of 29 and 23 respectively. It also lost 6 crucial seats in the then chief minister Narendra Modi's Gujarat where Godhra riots had been held in 2002. It made some gains in Karnataka and Rajasthan where it won 18 and 21 seats respectively. Its allies too failed to impress and the NDA secured just 185 seats in the 543-member House. HOW CONGRESS FARED HOW BHARATIYA JANATA PARTY FARED ANDHRA PRADESH 29 ARUNACHAL PRADESH 2 ASSAM 9 ASSAM 2 BIHAR 3 BIHAR 5 GOA 1 GOA 1 GUJARAT 12 GUJARAT 14 HARYANA 9 HARYANA 1 HIMACHAL PRADESH 3 HIMACHAL PRADESH 1 JAMMU & KASHMIR 2 KARNATAKA 18 KARNATAKA 8 MADHYA PRADESH 25 MADHYA PRADESH 4 MAHARASHTRA 13 MAHARASHTRA 13 ORISSA 7 MANIPUR 1 PUNJAB 3 MEGHALAYA 1 RAJASTHAN 21 ORISSA 2 UTTAR PRADESH 10 PUNJAB 2 CHHATTISGARH 10 RAJASTHAN 4 JHARKHAND 1 TAMIL NADU 10 UTTARANCHAL 3 UTTAR PRADESH 9 NATIONAL CAPITAL TERRITORY OF DELHI 1 WEST BENGAL 6 CHHATTISGARH 1 JHARKHAND 6 UTTARANCHAL 1 ANDAMAN & NICOBAR ISLANDS 1 CHANDIGARH 1 JHARKHAND 6 UTTARANCHAL 1 ANDAMAN & NICOBAR ISLANDS 1 CHANDIGARH 1 DAMAN & DIU 1 NATIONAL CAPITAL TERRITORY OF DELHI 6 TOTAL 145 138 Though no single party gained a clear majority, it was a comeback for the Congress, one that they themselves had least expected. The seat share of the party though did not see a surge as it had achieved in the past, its coalition - United Progressive Alliance - had enough numbers to come to power. Congress emerged as the single-largest party with 145 seats in its kitty. It doubled its number of seats from 6 to 12 in Gujarat, won 9 seats in Haryana, 10 seats in Tamil Nadu, 6 out of 7 seats in Delhi and 6 seats in Jharkhand too. The support of the alliance partners and other regional parties made Congress cross the magic figure of 272. The UPA bagged 214 seats while 138 more seats were won by other parties and independents. Both the Communist parties achieved their best-ever electoral results and delivered it for the Congress. The Communist Party of India bagged 10 seats, 6 more than the last election. The Communist Party of India Marxist too saw a rise in their seats share. The party won 43 seats, 10 more than it won in 1999. The Nationalist Congress Party, which was formed after opposing Sonia's claim on the PM post, bagged 9 seats of the 32 it contested on. The Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) too kept up on its upward curve and won 19 seats, 5 more than the last election. Of the 5435 candidates contesting the election, 1351 were from national parties. 364 of these 1351 candidates won their seats. 801 candidates of national parties and 898 candidates of registered parties also contested of whom 159 and 15 candidates respectively were elected to the House. There were 2385 Independents who were also in the fray of which just 5 managed to win the election and the deposits of 2370 were forfeited. Even before the full election results were announced, BJP conceded defeat and Vajpayee tendered his resignation. With 185 MPs, the NDA said that they would take the opposition benches in Parliament. The buzz was now about whether Sonia would become the fourth member of the Nehru-Gandhi dynasty to become the prime minister of the country. However, the issue of her Italian origins had come back to haunt her. Though she had met the then president APJ Abdul Kalam, days after the results were announced, she did not claim stake to form the government. On May 18, she gave up her claim to the PM post. "The post of prime minister has not been my aim. I was always certain that, if ever I found myself in the position I am in today, I would follow my inner voice. I humbly decline the post," she had said announcing her decision - one which left the newly-elected Congress MPs shouting and pleading with Soni to reconsider her stance. The other two top contenders then for the post were former finance ministers - Pranab Mukherjee and Manmohan Singh. On May 19, the party announced that Manmohan Singh would lead the country as the 14th Prime Minister. He stated that the country had voted for Sonia Gandhi but as she was declining the post, he would take up the mantle to work under "madam's guidance and with the support of the nation". By the late 1990s, the political landscape of India was defined by two major camps in the country. On one side was Congress, the traditional giant that may have lost its aura from past decades but was still a national force to reckon with. It had a several alliance members who may not have sworn their allegiance but tagged along nonetheless. The final few years of the decade also saw yet another internal rift within the party with many calling for Sonia Gandhi to take over the reins while veteran leader Sharad Pawar rising up to question her Italian origins. On the other end of the field was the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), a rising force that had managed to have its first PM by 1996 after going from strength to strength in each passing year of the decade. Atal Bihari Vajpayee was indeed an eloquent political figure commanding respect across party lines and affiliations and had taken over as PM twice even if his stay in power was woefully short each time so far. While Vajpayees first term as PM lasted all of 13 days, he won the 1998 election along with BJPs alliance partner to take the chair once again. Two elections in two years, however, had not evoked much confidence in the Indian political system. Regional and coalition compulsions remained as high as ever even after the 1998 Lok Sabha election in which the BJP had won 182 on its own merit. The National Democratic Alliance (NDA) would form the government and remain in power for a period which may have been short little over a year - but was extremely eventful. The period would also see opposition within Congress to Sonia becoming party president reach its peak. By May of 1999, Pawar, PA Sangma and Tariq Anwar had moved out of the party. With one main party on sticky wicket and its main rival dealing with the responsibilities of governing the country as well as keeping its alliance members content, 1999 saw events that would have a lasting impact on the country and its people. Internal rift to Sonia Gandhis rise: Congress was only a shadow of its former self for most of the 1990s. The assassination of Rajiv Gandhi in 1991 had left it without a leader from the Gandhi family and its fortunes had dipped significantly. Whether the dipping fortunes was because no Gandhi was at its helm or due to other factors remains a matter of debate and speculation. By the mid 1990s, there was a strong call within the Congress to have Sonia Gandhi take over as party president. The defeat in the 1996 election had only helped her supporters raise their voice even further. The senior leadership of Congress had begun doubting the abilities of Sitaram Kesri who was heading the party at that point in time and eventually paved the way on which Sonia joined the party during Congress Calcutta Plenary Session in1997. A year later, she would be made the party chief, despite no political experience or acumen. Soon after, and despite massive opposition within the party, she would be made the president. This resulted in a massive uproar with Congressmen like Pawar, Sangma and Anwar protesting against someone of Italian origin being made the party chief. Their critics say the trio had their own ambitions of becoming Congress president but whatever be the case, the three senior party leaders opting to resign would have significant ramifications for Congress. The charge that Sonia was of Italian origin was picked up by rival parties as well which would further hurt the Congress. Pokharan II: Soon after becoming Prime Minister yet again, Vajpayee decided to put India on the nuclear map which would be a massive statement on the world stage. The government of the time showed steely determination to take a massive risk and conduct a series of nuclear tests at Pokharan in Rajasthan between May 11 and 13 of 1998. At the time, there was big risk of international backlash as well as domestic criticism but in hindsight, the tests conducted against odds and under complete secrecy - not only made India into a nuclear nation but stamped BJP as a party which could take effective decisions in the interest of the country. Even in the immediate aftermath of the tests, Vajpayee remained steadfast even as the US promised sanctions galore. The promised backlash was only a trickle which also added to the governments credibility. Kargil War May 3 to July 26 of 1999: It has been argued in the past that the government in 1998 may have conducted the Pokharan nuclear tests but had failed to assess all the potential risks associated with its aftermath. Kargil war with Pakistan is, by a few, seen as Pakistani military establishments response to India going nuclear and their effort to escalate the Kashmir conflict to the international stage at a time when the international community was largely condemning the tests. The eventual outcome of Kargil War even at the cost of great human sacrifice however showed the Vajpayee government as one with a steely resolve to meet with any challenge. The intruders Pakistani soldiers in the garb of being mercenaries and guerrillas, occupied vantage peaks on the Indian side of LoC. The intrusions were made in Kaksar near Kargil, Marpo La in Dras and in the Batalik sector. The objective of a nefarious Pakistani force was to keep a hold on peaks here till the international community intervened and forced a ceasefire which would enable them to cement their hold. The Indian retaliation, once the intrusions were detected, was valiant and fierce. The Indian Army fought an uphill battle quite literally to drive the intruders out while at no time did Indian forces cross the LoC. Also called Operation Vijay, it is among Indias most decisive military wins against Pakistan and one that further showcased the ability of the Vajpayee government to handle a massive crisis. It became a key point in the NDA manifesto before the call for election later in the year. Election 1999 Status of States: The Lok Sabha election 1999 was conducted across 32 states and union territories in India. These were: Andhra Pradesh Assam Arunachal Pradesh Bihar Goa Gujarat Haryana Himachal Pradesh Jammu and Kashmir Karnataka Kerala Madhya Pradesh Maharashtra Manipur Meghalaya Nagaland Orissa Punjab Rajasthan Sikkim Tamil Nadu Tripura Uttar Pradesh West Bengal Andaman and Nicobar Islands Chandigarh Dadra and Nagar Haveli Daman and Diu National Capital Territory of Delhi Lakshadweep Pondicherry Political parties in the fray: There were seven national parties and another 40 state parties which contested the Lok Sabha 1999 election, apart from many other registered (unrecognised) parties. These were: National Parties: Bharatiya Janata Party Bahujan Samaj Party Communist Party of India Communist Party of India (Marxist) Indian National Congress Janata Dal (Secular) Janata Dal (United) State Parties: Arunachal Congress All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam Asom Gana Parishad All India Trinamool Congress Biju Janata Dal Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam All India Forward Bloc Federal Party of Manipur Hill State Peoples Democratic Party Haryana Vikas Party Indian National Lok Dal Jammu and Kashmir National Conference Jharkhand Mukti Morcha Janata Party Kerala Congress Kerala Congress (M) Lok Shakti Marumalarchi Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam Manipur Peoples Party Manipur State Congress Party Muslim League Kerala State Committee Nationalist Congress Party NTR Telegu Desam Party (Lakshmi Parvathi) Peoples Democratic Movement Pattali Makkal Katchi Rashtriya Janata Dal Republican Party of India Revolutionary Socialist Party Shiromani Akali Dal Samajwadi Janata Party (Rashtriya) Sikkim Democratic Front Shiv Sena Samajwadi Party Telegu Desam Party Tamil Maanila Congress (Moopanar) United Democratic Party United Goans Democratic Party United Minorities Front, Assam Election 1999: BJP and its alliance partners, including AIADMK, had formed the government in 1998 and had looked like stability would return to Indian politics. AIADMK had managed to win 30 seats in Tamil Nadu and its support was crucial in helping BJP forming the next government as its biggest member. But fissures soon emerged. Vajpayee had flatly refused to dismiss the DMK government in Tamil Nadu which would have otherwise given a chance to AIADMK to form the government in the state. In addition, the PM had also refused to have a corruption case against Jayalalithaa dropped. This led to AIADMK pulling back its support. Consequently, the Vajpayee-led government lost the confidence vote in Lok Sabha by a solitary vote. Congress, now under Sonia, was unable to draw the numbers, prompting President KR Narayanan to dissolve the Parliament and have election in the country yet again. Gone were the years of triangular and quadrangular battles of the 80s and most of 90s which saw fractional camps threatening to leave an impact on the eventual outcome of elections. The Lok Sabha election of 1999 was essentially a battle between the BJP-led alliance and the Congress-led alliance. The battle lines were drawn clearer than ever before. Did it then have the potential to make this contest more predictive than thrilling? It didnt. The BJP, however, did enjoy an edge at the time the NDA government was dissolved and fresh election was called by President Narayanan. The party was still several years away from conquering southern and eastern India on its own merit but had been relentlessly fine-tuning its political relations with alliance members through the topsy-turvy lanes of coalition politics. The rift with AIADMK the biggest reason which led to calling of fresh election had the potential of hurting BJP in Tamil Nadu but it still had some formidable regional players like TDP by its side. The Congress, on the other hand, was fighting against a double-edged sword. The party had to once again deal with the rising might of BJP was also busy firefighting within. The rise of Sonia and the exit of Pawar, Sangma and Ahmed resulted in a party that could lose out on traditionally assured seats. As for the remaining forces unwilling to commit to one side or the other, the prospect of post-poll alliance remained open. Campaigning for Lok Sabha election 2019 was as intense as ever with BJP, Congress and smaller parties rousing sentiments of voters while trading accusations galore. The NDA manifesto titled For a proud and prosperous India was more about highlighting the strong decision-making abilities of the government under Vajpayee than what was ahead of the country. Most interestingly, the manifesto began with these words: The 1999 General Election is an unnecessary imposition. It was thrust upon the country by a motley combination that put political negativism, narrow personal interests and greed for power far above the national good. The manifesto went on to slam Congress for being unable to stitch together a negative coalition and thrusting a fresh election on the country. More significantly, the manifesto also highlighted, then underlined, the achievements of the past several months and the Kargil War received special mentions. The Government rose to the challenge and acted decisively. Faced by this aggression in Kargil, the response of the Government was swift, though measured. The last of the Pakistani intruders were cleared from the Kargil Sector on 27th July. We salute the heroism, dedication and selflessness of our armed forces. We dedicate ourselves anew to preserving the honour and territorial integrity of our motherland. We reiterate our commitment to look after the welfare of the armed forces, and of the dependents of all those that laid down their lives in service of our motherland. The manifesto also stressed that the NDA was committed to national security, dynamic diplomacy, federal harmony, economic modernisation, secularism, social justice and transparency and corruption-free governance. The NDA also promised to ensure inclusiveness and quite significantly, dropped the Ram Temple in Ayodhaya issue for the first time since 1991. It is believed that this was done to satisfy some of the alliance members within the NDA. Congress, on the other hand, continued with the main features of its manifesto from just a year earlier, trying to woo voters with lofty promises of addressing poverty, strengthening the economy and creating jobs. It also accused the NDA members of making national interest secondary to their own political ambitions. Under such a charged-up atmosphere, the Lok Sabha election 1999 was held between September 5 and October 3 of that year. Election was held across 545 parliamentary constituencies in a total of 32 states and union territories in the country. The number of candidates battling it out in this edition had come down to 4,648 which remains the lowest in all Lok Sabha elections in the country since 1980. This number had peaked in 1996 when 13,952 candidates had filed their nomination, prompting the Election Commission of India to hike deposit fees significantly thereafter. The size of the electorate had jumped by a crore and 50 lakh to almost 7 crores who were eligible to cast their vote in 7.74 lakh polling booths across the country. The election was held over the course of five days and while there were strong speculations that there was a sense of voter fatigue owing to this being the third Lok Sabha election in as many years, the overall voter turnout figure of 59.99 per cent almost at par with turnouts at the time was a step in the correct direction. A low voter turnout could have damaged some of the prospects for the NDA in this election but it was not meant to be as the BJP and its alliance partners registered a solid performance by winning 270 seats and an additional 29 won by TDP. BJP secured wins in 182 seats which was a shade better than its own showing a year ago while its vote share had dipped a bit to 23.8 per cent, perhaps because it contested in lesser seats than in 1998. Critics of the party also sought to highlight how BJP fared poorly in Uttar Pradesh where the party won just 29 seats. In the larger scheme of things, it wont matter because BJPs biggest achievement was in holding the right hands as alliance partners carried the NDAs proverbial flag right into the Parliament. The Congress, however, had to hunt for positives at the end of the 1999 Lok Sabha election. The countrys oldest political party had managed to win 114 seats on its own while its partners in AIADMK and RJD won 10 and seven, respectively. Both Jayalalithaa and Lalu Prasad Yadav leaders of AIADMK and RJD were facing corruption charges at the time and that may have hurt Congress more than their own respective parties. The final outcome was an alarm bell for Congress as it had sought to project itself as the single-largest party and one that is capable of providing the country with stability. Its own house, however, was on shaky grounds and Sonias rise to the partys helm, followed by the exit of Pawar, Sangma and Ahmed had created a massive dent in Congress image at the time. Among the consolations were states like Karnataka and Punjab where it fared well while it managed to repair some of the damages in UP from the election last year when Congress had been absolutely routed. The result of the 1999 election also sent a strong signal to the Left as CPI already hobbling was crippled and managed to win just four seats. It lost its national party status. Lok Sabha election of 1999 was a turning point in the politics of the country for all of these reasons, and more. It was the first time that political parties under the NDA umbrella had managed to come together in a decisive way and get the desired outcome. Vajpayee was the unanimous choice, as was obvious, to become PM again and he would complete full five years in office providing India with stability after many years of political unpredictability. India was truly set and ready for the new millennium. Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chief Mehbooba Mufti Wednesday lashed out at micro-blogging site Twitter, questioning the verified handle of Sadhvi Pragya Singh Thakur, BJP's candidate for Bhopal Lok Sabha constituency. Live TV Sadhvi Pragya has a verified twitter account thanks to @TwitterIndia. Ridiculous that a terror accused is given a platform to sow seeds of hatred. Thank god Godses isnt alive anymore, tweeted the former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister alongside a screenshot of Thakur's Twitter profile with the blue tick verification. Sadhvi Pragya has a verified twitter account thanks to @TwitterIndia. Ridiculous that a terror accused is given a platform to sow seeds of hatred. Thank god Godses isnt alive anymore. pic.twitter.com/Bqt1OpmXUb Mehbooba Mufti (@MehboobaMufti) May 8, 2019 Thakur is an accused in the 2008 Malegaon blast case and currently out on bail. BJP pitted her against Congress leader Digvijay Singh from Bhopal for the 2019 general election. This is not the first instance of Mufti attacking Thakur on the micro-blogging platform. Immediately after BJP announced its decision to field Thakur from Bhopal, the PDP chief had tweeted, "Imagine the anger if I'd field a terror accused. Channels would've gone berserk by now trending a mehboobaterrorist hashtag! According to these guys, terror has no religion when it comes to saffron fanatics but otherwise, all Muslims are terrorists. Guilty until proven innocent." Imagine the anger if Id field a terror accused. Channels wouldve gone berserk by now trending a mehboobaterrorist hashtag! According to these guys terror has no religion when it comes to saffron fanatics but otherwise all Muslims are terrorists. Guilty until proven innocent https://t.co/ymTumxgty7 Mehbooba Mufti (@MehboobaMufti) April 17, 2019 Bhopal will vote during the sixth phase of Lok Sabha elections on May 12. Results will be declared on May 23. The EC on May 1 banned Thakur from campaigning for 72 hours over her remarks on former ATS chief Hemant Karkare and Babri mosque demolition. She had said Karkare was killed in the 26/11 Mumbai terror attack because of her "curse" because he "tortured" her when he probed the case as chief of the Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS). She also said that she was "proud" of her participation in the demolition of the Babri mosque at Ayodhya in 1992. The panel "strongly condemned" her remarks and warned her "not to repeat the misconduct in future". Thakur resumed her campaigning for ongoing Lok Sabha election on Sunday, May 5. Azamgarh: Mounting a blistering attack on the opposition, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday stressed that no bomb blasts took place in the country after 2014 since the BJP-led NDA government gave top priority to the national interest. The PM made this statement while addressing an election rally in Azamgarh from where Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav is contesting. The PM further told the gathering that it was only due to his government's 'zero tolerance towards terrorism' policy that terror activities have been restricted only to J&K now. ''How were bomb blasts brought under control in all cities after 2014? How have terror activities been restricted only to J&K now? It is because our govt prioritised national interest. We entered Pakistan and attacked terrorists,'' the PM roared in Azamgarh rally. PM Modi in Azamgarh: How were bomb blasts brought under control in all cities after 2014? How have terror activities been restricted only to J&K now? It is because our govt prioritised national interest. We entered Pakistan and attacked terrorists. pic.twitter.com/ONk4g78iY0 ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) May 9, 2019 Live TV During his speech, PM Modi urged the voters not to vote for a "khichdi" (coalition) government as it would do more harm than good to the country and to them. "Be wary of a 'khichdi' government," the PM said. Stating that voting for the opposition alliance was fraught with danger, the PM said, "The 'mahagathbandhan' can only lead to anarchy and instability and make the country insecure." While stating that Azamgarh had become synonymous with terrorism, PM Modi said, ''the scenario has, however, changed since 2014, when the BJP-led government was formed at the Centre.'' "Earlier, all terror activities had links to Azamgarh. But what happened after 2014 is for all of you to see," the PM asked the crowd. Attacking the 'Mahagathbandhan', the Prime Minister said that the people had already seen how "gathbandhan" governments were steeped in corruption in the past and cited the 2G scam among others. Later, addressing a rally in UP's Janupur, the PM attacked BSP chief Mayawati, who, he alleged, is being used by her allies for getting votes of the Dalits and the backwards only. ''Behen Ji (Mayawati) will understand the game that has been played to keep her outside Uttar Pradesh only after May 23. Behen Ji is now seeking votes for the people who had called Baba Saheb Ambedkar a land mafia and insulted him at every step,'' the PM said at the rally. He concluded by appealing to the voters to cast their votes carefully and to chose a strong and corruption-free government. Kolkata: A day after she called PM Narendra Modi and his party BJP the ''biggest threats'' to the nation, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday dared the Prime Minister to prove his allegations of links between the Trinamool Congress and the coal mafia. Throwing an open challenge to the PM, the TMC chief said that if he fails to prove his allegations, then he should do a hundred sit-ups before the public for making false allegations against her party. She even said that if the charges made by the PM are proved, then she will withdraw all 42 Lok Sabha candidates of her party. ''I challenge you (PM Modi) if you can prove your allegations that one of us is part of coal mafia. I will withdraw all my 42 candidates. If you are lying, you have to hold your ears and do a hundred sit-ups before the public,'' the TMC supremo said this while addressing an election rally in Bankura, West Bengal. West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee in Bankura: I challenge you (PM Modi) if you can prove your allegations that one of us is part of coal mafia, I will withdraw all my 42 candidates. If you are lying, you have to hold your ears and do a hundred sit ups before public. pic.twitter.com/mBQT59MP4J ANI (@ANI) May 9, 2019 Live TV The firebrand West Bengal leader had on Wednesday urged the voters to remove Prime Minister Narendra Modi from power and described him and his Bharatiya Janata Party as the "biggest threat" to the country. "Narendra Modi and BJP are the biggest threat to the nation," Banerjee had said in West Midnapore District's Debra while addressing a public rally there. The Trinamool supremo alleged that the Modi regime did not give due respect to Bengal and was also trying to divide people in the name of religion. "If Narendra Modi is not removed, there will be no freedom, democracy, no religion or no caste in the country as they will change the Constitution," she said. After courting controversy, the West Bengal Chief Minister on Thursday denied having said that she will slap Prime Minister Narendra Modi and asserted she had said he would get the "tight slap of democracy". PM Modi had told a rally at Bankura earlier in the day that Banerjee had said that she would slap him, which would actually be a ''blessing'' for him. Speaking at a rally at Simulia in Purulia district ahead of the sixth phase of polls, Banerjee elaborated that by "slap of democracy" she meant the peoples' mandate expressed through their votes. "He (Modi) is saying that I have said I will slap him. Arrey that's the slap of democracy. Try to understand the language," Banerjee said. "Why should I be slapping you (the PM). I am not that kind of a person. What I understand is democracy. A slap of democracy means that the mandate people will give by casting their votes," the Trinamool Congress supremo said. Banerjee had said during a campaign rally at Raghunathpur in the district on Tuesday that Modi should get a "tight slap of democracy". (With Agency inputs) Senior Congress leader and Rajya Sabha MP Ahmed Patel on Thursday lashed out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP for dragging former Prime Minister late Rajiv Gandhi into their election campaigns, saying that the BJP was responsible for the assassination of Rajiv Gandhi. The BJP backed VP Singh govt refused to provide him with additional security & left him with one PSO despite credible intelligence inputs and repeated requests. Rajiv ji lost his life due to their hatred & is no longer here amongst us to answer the baseless allegations & abuses which are being unleashed on him," tweeted Patel. Abusing a martyred Prime Minster is the sign of ultimate cowardice But who is responsible for his assassination ? The BJP backed VP Singh govt refused to provide him with additional security & left him with one PSO despite credible intelligence inputs and repeated requests Ahmed Patel (@ahmedpatel) May 9, 2019 Rajiv ji lost his life due to their hatred & is no longer here amongst us to answer the baseless allegations & abuses which are being unleashed on him Ahmed Patel (@ahmedpatel) May 9, 2019 Patel made the remark just a day after PM Modi launched a fresh salvo at former PM Rajiv Gandhi saying that warship INS Viraat was used as a "personal taxi" by Gandhi family during Rajiv Gandhi's tenure. INS Viraat was insulted by using it as a personal taxi. This happened when Rajiv Gandhi and his family was out for a 10-day vacation. INS Viraat was deployed for securing our maritime boundary. But it was diverted to take the Gandhi family which was out for a vacation," Modi had said at a rally in Delhi on Wednesday. The prime minister also claimed that INS Viraat was made to halt at an island for 10 days by Gandhi family. LIVE TV: Watch PM Modi's interview on Zee News today at 8 PM For his part, Rahul Gandhi had preferred not to hit out at PM Modi over 'Bhrashtachari No 1' comment but the Congress chief said that he will try to spread only "love" and "hugs". Several opposition leaders, including West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti and SP chief Akhilesh Yadav, have slammed PM Modi for his remarks against Rajiv Gandhi. "People who lay down their lives for the country, they should be respected. Yesterday, you called Rajiv Gandhi corrupted Prime Minister. Today you are calling me 'tolabaaz'. If I am a tolabaaz, what are you? What are you? Your entire body - from head to feet - is drenched in the blood of people. Only riots, only riots and only riots," Mamata had said. The Supreme Court (SC) on Thursday dismissed a plea seeking to direct the Election Commission to debar Congress president Rahul Gandhi from contesting the Lok Sabha election after he had voluntarily acquired British nationality. The petition was filed in SC by two Delhi residents after BJP MP Subramanian Swamy had alleged that the record of a British company shows that the Congress president still holds British citizenship. In the plea, the petitioner had also urged the apex court to issue a direction to Home Ministry to take a decision on the complaint received against Rahul's dual citizenship. The petitioner had also urged the court to debar the Congress chief from contesting the election. Junking the plea, the SC questioned the petitioner that what has prompted him to come to the court now. "Just because a paper notes his citizenship as British, does he become a British citizen?" said the SC. "We dismiss the petition. There is no merit in the petition," said CJI Ranjan Gogoi. LIVE TV: Watch PM Modi's interview on Zee News today at 8 PM The petitioner had also said that Rahul is aspiring to become the prime minister of India but he should not be allowed to become the PM because of his 'dual citizenship'. Replying to this, CJI Gogoi said, Who doesn't want to become the PM? Everyone among 130 crore would want to become the PM. It is a healthy aspiration. It may be recalled that on May 1, a notice was sent by the Home Ministry to Rahul Gandhi seeking a response to charges that he held British citizenship. The Home Ministry sought response from the Congress chief over a complaint filed by Subramanian Swamy in 2017. LIVE TV: Watch PM Modi's interview on Zee News today at 8 PM In the notice, the MHA had said: "It has been brought out that a Company named Backops Limited was registered in the United Kingdom in the year 2003..and that you were one of the Directors and Secretary of the said Company. It has been further brought out in the complaint that in the Company's Annual Returns filed on 10/10/2005 and 31/10/2006, your date of birth has been given as 19/06/1970 and that you had declared your nationality as British. Further, in the Dissolution application dated 17/02/2009 of the above referred company, your nationality has been mentioned as British." NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court Thursday dismissed Samajwadi Party candidate Tej Bahadur Yadav's plea against the rejection of his nomination from Varanasi Lok Sabha constituency. There's no basis of the plea, said Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi while rejecting it. Live TV The top court on Wednesday had asked the Election Commission of India to respond on the cancellation of Yadav's nomination from Varanasi within a day. The poll panel had rejected Bahadur's nomination over "discrepancies" in the application. The SP-BSP-RLD combine in Uttar Pradesh had named Yadav as their alliance candidate from Varanasi. The former BSF constable had moved top court challenging the rejection of his nomination papers by the Election Commission of India to contest general election from Varanasi constituency, from where Prime Minister Narendra Modi is also contesting. In his petition, the dismissed BSF jawan alleged that his nomination papers were cancelled at the behest of the BJP-led government at the Centre, adding that he had replied to the Election Commission's giving a thorough explanation over the difference in reasons. "My nomination has been rejected wrongly. I was asked to produce the evidence at 6.15 pm on Tuesday. We produced the evidence, still my nomination was rejected. We will go to the Supreme Court. We have been told that we did not produce the evidence that was asked from us before 11 am. Whereas, we had produced the evidence," he had said. In January 2017, Yadav shot into limelight after posting four videos on social media complaining about the sub-standard food given to soldiers at his camp along the Indo-Pakistan border in Jammu and Kashmir. The videos sparked intense outrage across the country. The BSF later refuted his allegations and Yadav was dismissed from the service after an inquiry. By Kang Seung-woo Euljiro Nogari Beer Festival will kick off today for its two-day run in Nogari Alley in Euljiro, central Seoul. Euljiro Nogari Beer Festival will be held today and Saturday. / Korea Times file MUMBAI: Shiv Sena on Thursday supported Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his 'Bhrastachari No 1' remarks on former PM late Rajiv Gandhi, saying the insult heaped on Rajiv Gandhi by PM Modi is the price Congress president Rahul Gandhi has to pay for "insulting" freedom fighter Veer Savarkar. Shiv Sena said in its editorial mouthpiece 'Saamna' that Rahul keeps on calling PM Modi 'chor' in public rallies and he also insults Veer Savarkar publicly. "Rahul Gandhi refers to Narendra Modi as `chor` in public assemblies; does anyone expect the Prime Minister to invite him for a cup of tea for this? Even if we assume that what Prime Minister said about Rajiv Gandhi was wrong, the manner in which Rahul Gandhi has insulted great freedom fighter Veer Savarkar is worse," said Shiv Sena. "The manner in which he made fun of Savarkar and described how he freed himself by pleading to be British, it is an insult to all the freedom fighters and is simply unacceptable," added the 'Saamna' editorial. LIVE TV: Watch PM Modi's interview on Zee News today at 8 PM On Saturday, PM Modi had hit out at Rajiv Gandhi saying that he ended his life as `Bhrashtachari No 1` (corrupt no 1). The remarks have sparked a political row with Congress and other opposition parties slamming the PM for dragging late prime minister in the political campaigns. The Shiv Sena, however, strongly defended PM Modi, saying he has only shown a mirror to the Congress president. LIVE TV: Watch PM Modi's interview on Zee News today at 8 PM Shiv Sena said in its editorial that Rajiv Gandhi was assassinated by LTTE terrorists and it was an unfortunate incident but Rajiv did not do anything for the nation before his entry into politics. The editorial added that it would be wrong to use a term like 'sacrifice' with Rajiv Gandhi. "Rajiv Gandhi was killed in an attack by the Tamil militants and all were saddened that Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi`s father left them. Before his entry into politics, Rajiv Gandhi did nothing great for the nation, hence a term like `sacrifice` doesn`t suit him. He became Prime Minister after Indira Gandhi was brutally murdered and later on his politics and life also ended in a sad manner. But such was not the case with Veer Savarkar, who at the age of 14 years pledged in front of the Almighty to get independence for his nation and fight British till his last breath," the editorial read. Earlier on Thursday, Senior Congress leader and Rajya Sabha MP Ahmed Patel had slammed PM Modi and the BJP for dragging former Prime Minister late Rajiv Gandhi into their election campaigns, saying that the BJP was responsible for the assassination of Rajiv Gandhi. The BJP backed VP Singh govt refused to provide him with additional security & left him with one PSO despite credible intelligence inputs and repeated requests. Rajiv ji lost his life due to their hatred & is no longer here amongst us to answer the baseless allegations & abuses which are being unleashed on him," tweeted Patel. For his part, Rahul Gandhi had preferred not to hit out at PM Modi over 'Bhrashtachari No 1' comment but the Congress chief had said that he will try to spread only "love" and "hugs". Several opposition leaders, including West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti and SP chief Akhilesh Yadav, have slammed PM Modi for his remarks against Rajiv Gandhi. (with ANI inputs) KOLKATA: Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister and Telugu Desam Party (TDP) chief N Chandrababu Naidu on Thursday campaigned for the Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress in West Bengal and urged the voters to vote for the party in the ongoing 2019 Lok Sabha election. While addressing a rally in TMC bastion, the TDP chief called Mamata Banerjee as a 'Bengal tiger' as he sought votes for the ruling party in West Bengal. "She is Bengal tiger, what Bengal thinks today, India will think tomorrow. So, please vote for Mamata Banerjee,'' the TDP chief appealed to voters. Naidu made these remarks while addressing an election rally in West Bengal's Kharagpur. LIVE TV: Watch PM Modi's interview on Zee News today at 8 PM Naidu, who is on the forefront of building a powerful anti-BJP coalition with like-minded parties in a bid to defeat the Narendra Modi-powered NDA, has held crucial discussions with top leaders of the Congress, SP, RJD, TMC and AAP in the recent past. He has even called for a big meeting of top opposition parties two days ahead of the announcement of Lok Sabha election 2019 results to chalk out a strategy to counter the BJP-led NDA. LIVE TV: Watch PM Modi's interview on Zee News today at 8 PM Naidu is also due to address election rallies along with West Bengal Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress leader Mamata Banerjee in several parts of the state. Naidu had left Delhi on Wednesday for Kolkata. He had addressed election meetings in Jhargram and Haldia on Wednesday and is campaigning for Trinamool candidates in Kharagpur today. Similarly, Banerjee had addressed an election rally of the TDP in Visakhapatnam last month. Elections to 175-member Andhra Pradesh Assembly and all 25 Lok Sabha seats in the state were held in the first phase on April 10. After the elections in his state, Naidu had campaigned Janata Dal-Secular in Karnataka by addressing a few meetings with party chief and former Prime Minister HD Deve Gowda and Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy. New Delhi: Salman Khan and Katrina Kaif starrer 'Bharat' is one of the biggest releases of this year and expectations from the film are soaring high. Releasing on June 5, the film has some of the most talented actors on board. A brand new song featuring the lead actors has been unveiled and what we love about it the most is Kat's attempts to seek Salman's attention. Titled as 'Aithey Aa', the song is a fun-filled Punjabi number which will make you want to dance the moment you listen to it! Katrina looks fantastic in a pink saree throughout the song and aces those 'thumkas'. Salman, on the other hand, has that 'Dabangg' swag on in sunnies and a mustache. Check out the song here: Still can't get the song out of your head? We don't blame you! Coming to the film 'Bharat', it also stars Disha Patani, Sunil Grover, Aasif Shaikh, Varun Dhawan and Nora Fatehi to name a few. As per reports, the film is a remake of South Koren film 'Ode to my Father'. With songs like Chashni, Slow Motion and the latest Aithey Aa, the buzz around ' Bharat' seems to be getting stronger! NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court Thursday dismissed a plea seeking directions not to proceed with the Tamil Nadu Government's decision of premature release of seven convicts in Rajiv Gandhi assassination case. All aspects were covered in the earlier constitution bench verdict in the case and therefore nothing survives in the case. We don't find any merit in your petition, said the SC bench led by Chief Justice of India (CJI) Ranjan Gogoi while responsing to plea of kin of those who died along with ex-PM Rajiv Gandhi in 1991. LIVE TV: 8 In 2014, the then J Jayalalithaa-led government had decided to release seven convicts in the case. Former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi was assassinated by a suicide bomber in Sriperumbudur in Tamil Nadu on May 21, 1991. Two major Tamil Nadu-based parties - All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) and Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) - have promised to release the killers of the former prime minister of India Rajiv Gandhi in their manifestos for upcoming Lok Sabha election 2019. Both the parties vowed to release the seven persons convicted in the Rajiv Gandhi assassination case. In February this year, Nalini Sriharan the lone surviving convict in the assassination of former prime minister Rajiv Gandhi on Saturday appealed to Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami for an early release of all the seven life convicts, including her, in the case. The convicts have been serving sentence in the prison for more than 27 years. OSLO: A prominent Arab pro-democracy campaigner living in political asylum in Norway said he had been warned by the Norwegian security services about a possible threat against him from Saudi Arabia. Iyad el-Baghdadi is a Palestinian human rights campaigner and writer who won prominence during the 2011 Arab uprisings and has written critically of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. He has lived in Oslo since 2015. Live TV Baghdadi said that on April 25, the Norwegian security services took him to a secure location and told him of the possible threat against him. "Once I was there and settled down, they told me that ... they have received a tip from a partner intelligence agency indicating that I`ve been the target of a threat," he told Reuters. The Saudi embassy in Oslo was not immediately available for comment. Saudi Arabia`s government communications office did not respond to a request for comment. Baghdadi said the Norwegian authorities did not name the partner agency, but that from the context of the conversation he had inferred that they were referring to the US Central Intelligence Agency. The Norwegian justice ministry, which is in charge of the security services, the Norwegian security police and the foreign ministry all declined to comment. The CIA also declined to comment when contacted by Reuters. Baghdadi said there could be six or seven reasons why Saudi Arabia would target him, without elaborating. He said he spent around three hours at the April meeting discussing with members of Norway`s PST security service why he might be at risk. Saudi Arabia has come under increasing global scrutiny over its human rights record since the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi last year inside the kingdom`s Istanbul consulate and the detention of around a dozen women`s rights activists.A bipartisan chorus of U.S. lawmakers has called on the White House to harden its stance toward Saudi Arabia after Khashoggi, a critic of Prince Mohammed, was killed by Saudi agents in a move widely seen as an attempt to stifle dissent. A CIA assessment has blamed Prince Mohammed for ordering the killing, which Saudi officials deny. WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump on Thursday urged Iran`s leadership to sit down and talk with him about giving up Tehran`s nuclear program and said he could not rule out a military confrontation given the heightened tensions between the two countries. At an impromptu news conference at the White House, Trump declined to say what prompted him to deploy the USS Abraham Lincoln carrier group to the region over what was described as unspecified threats. Live TV "We have information that you don`t want to know about," said Trump. "They were very threatening and we have to have great security for this country and many other places." Trump was asked whether there was a risk of military confrontation with the American military presence in the area. "I guess you could say that always, right? I don`t want to say no, but hopefully that won`t happen. We have one of the most powerful ships in the world that is loaded up and we don`t want to do anything," he said. Trump has expressed a willingness to meet Iranian leaders in the past to no avail and renewed that appeal in talking to reporters. "What they should be doing is calling me up, sitting down. We can make a deal, a fair deal, we just don`t want them to have nuclear weapons - not too much to ask. And we would help put them back to great shape." He added: "They should call. If they do, we`re open to talk to them." WASHINGTON: Facebook Inc quickly rejected a call from co-founder Chris Hughes on Thursday to split the world`s largest social media company in three, while lawmakers urged the US Justice Department to launch an antitrust investigation. Facebook has been under scrutiny from regulators around the world over data sharing practices as well as hate speech and misinformation on its networks. Some US lawmakers have also pushed for action to break up big tech companies as well as federal privacy regulation. "We are a nation with a tradition of reining in monopolies, no matter how well-intentioned the leaders of these companies may be. Mark`s power is unprecedented and un-American," Hughes, a former college roommate of Facebook Chief Executive Mark Zuckerberg, wrote in a lengthy New York Times opinion piece. Live TV Facebook`s social network has more than 2 billion users across the world. It also owns WhatsApp, Messenger and Instagram, each used by more than 1 billion people. Facebook bought Instagram in 2012 and WhatsApp in 2014. Facebook rejected Hughes` call for WhatsApp and Instagram to be made into separate companies, and said the focus should instead be on regulating the internet. Zuckerberg will be in Paris on Friday to meet with French President Emmanuel Macron to discuss internet regulation. "Facebook accepts that with success comes accountability. But you dont enforce accountability by calling for the break up of a successful American company," Facebook spokesman Nick Clegg said in a statement. "Accountability of tech companies can only be achieved through the painstaking introduction of new rules for the internet. That is exactly what Mark Zuckerberg has called for." US Senator Richard Blumenthal, a Democrat, told CNBC on Thursday he thinks Facebook needs to be broken up and that the Justice Department`s antitrust division needs to begin an investigation. Antitrust law makes such a proposal tough to execute because the government would have to take the company to court and win. It is rare to break up a company but not unheard of, with Standard Oil and AT&T being the two biggest examples. Hughes co-founded Facebook in 2004 at Harvard with Zuckerberg and Dustin Moskovitz. He left Facebook in 2007, and has said in a LinkedIn post that he made half a billion dollars for his three years of work. "It`s been 15 years since I co-founded Facebook at Harvard, and I haven`t worked at the company in a decade. But I feel a sense of anger and responsibility," Hughes said in the New York Times piece. Hughes also suggested Zuckerberg should be held responsible for privacy and other lapses at the company. "The government must hold Mark accountable. For too long, lawmakers have marvelled at Facebooks explosive growth and overlooked their responsibility to ensure that Americans are protected and markets are competitive," he said. LAWMAKER PRESSURE Senator Elizabeth Warren, a Democratic presidential candidate, in March vowed to break up Facebook, Amazon.com Inc and Alphabet Inc`s Google if elected US president to promote competition in the tech sector. "Todays big tech companies have too much powerover our economy, our society, & our democracy. Theyve bulldozed competition, used our private info for profit, hurt small businesses & stifled innovation. It`s time to #BreakUpBigTech," Warren said on Twitter on Thursday. Representative Ro Khanna, a California Democrat, said in a statement he agreed in retrospect that US regulators "should not have approved Facebooks acquisition of Instagram & WhatsApp in 2012." He said that "the way forward is to heavily scrutinize future mergers and to ensure no company has anti-competitive platform privileges." In one of a number of security and privacy scandals to hit the company, Facebook is accused of inappropriately sharing information belonging to 87 million users with the now-defunct British political consulting firm Cambridge Analytica. The company has been in advanced talks with the US Federal Trade Commission to settle a year-old investigation and said last month it expected to spend between $3 billion and $5 billion on a penalty. On Monday, Republican and Democratic US senators criticized reported plans for the settlement, calling on the FTC to impose harsher penalties and more restrictions on Facebook`s business practices. Hughes said he last met with Zuckerberg in the summer of 2017, several months before the Cambridge Analytica scandal broke. "Mark is a good, kind person. But I`m angry that his focus on growth led him to sacrifice security and civility for clicks," Hughes said. "I`m worried that Mark has surrounded himself with a team that reinforces his beliefs instead of challenging them." The United States has for the first time seized a North Korean cargo ship it accused of illicit coal shipments in violation of US and United Nations sanctions, the US Justice Department announced on Thursday. The ship, known as the "Wise Honest," was first detained by Indonesia in April 2018. Under an unusual US civil forfeiture action, the vessel is now in the possession of the United States and is currently approaching US territorial waters heading toward American Samoa, US Justice Department officials said. Live TV The announcement comes after North Korea fired what appeared to be two short-range missiles on Thursday, its second such test in less than a week and an apparent protest by leader Kim Jong Un after US President Donald Trump rejected his calls for sanctions relief at a summit in February. The United States filed its seizure warrant for the ship under seal in July 2018, but department officials said the timing of its unsealing on Thursday was unrelated to the missile launches. "There is no connection at all between the recent activities by North Korea," said Geoffrey Berman, the US attorney for the Southern District of New York. "We have been pursuing this for months." The Justice Department said in a statement that the Wise Honest was used by Korea Songi Shipping Company, which it accused of paying US dollars through unwitting US financial institutions - in violation of US laws - for improvements, equipment purchases, and service expenditures for the vessel. "Payments totalling more than $750,000 were transmitted through accounts at a US financial institution in connection with the March 2018 shipment of coal on board the Wise Honest," the statement said. The North Korean mission to the United Nations did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The UN Security Council has unanimously strengthened sanctions on North Korea since 2006 in a bid to choke funding for Pyongyang`s nuclear and ballistic missile programs, banning exports including coal, iron, lead, textiles and seafood, and capping imports of crude oil and refined petroleum products. However, UN sanctions monitors reported to the council in March that Pyongyang continues to defy the measures "through a massive increase in illegal ship-to-ship transfers of petroleum products and coal." The 17,000-ton Wise Honest, which also was used to deliver heavy machinery to North Korea, is the second largest of Pyongyang`s bulk carriers, the US Justice Department said. "This sanctions-busting ship is now out of service," said John Demers, the head of the Justice Department`s National Security Division. When asked by reporters on Thursday whether North Korea`s largest cargo ship may be engaged in similar illegal behaviour, department officials said they did not know. "If it is, we`d love to get our hands on it," Demers added. Three American banks helped to facilitate US dollar payments for maintenance and equipment for the ship, but Justice officials said the banks did so unwittingly. According to UN sanctions monitors, the Wise Honest was transporting 25,500 tons of coal when it was detained by Indonesia in April 2018. The March UN report estimated that the value of the ship`s coal cargo was around $3 million. The monitors said Indonesia reported the ship was registered under both the flags of Sierra Leone and North Korea and that it had found "cargo documents and clearance received from a Russian cargo ship intending to conduct an STS (ship-to-ship) transfer" in waters off the Indonesian province of East Kalimantan. Russia has repeatedly denied violating UN sanctions on North Korea. North Korea will have 60 days to contest the US government`s civil asset forfeiture complaint, which was filed in a federal court in New York`s Southern District. If the United States prevails, it could either sell off the ship or the US government could put it to use. (Photo/Chinanews.com) A zoo in central China has cheered up a lonely male wolf by introducing him to a female dog. In 2017, zookeepers at Wuhan Jiufeng Forest Zoo in Hubei province brought the wolf and the dog to an enclosure so that they could keep each other company. The two animals have been living in harmony ever since. Before meeting his new companion, the wolf had been separated from his pack at the zoo because he wouldn't stop fighting with the other wolves, according to the park. (Photo/Chinanews.com) However, after being in isolation for several years, the wolf was close to depression, as diagnosed by an animal expert, prompting keepers to place a female puppy in the enclosure to keep him company. The two have been living in harmony together ever since, gaining internet fame over the weekend after a video of them was posted and shared on social media. Those who do not open at least two sides of their tent at 11 Hangang parks are subject to fines of 1 million won. / Korea Times photo By Kang Seung-woo Seoul City's crackdown on closed tents at parks along the Han River is drawing a mixed response, sparking a debate over possible invasion of privacy. Last month, the Seoul Metropolitan Government introduced regulations on putting up tents at riverside parks in the capital. People violating these are subject to a 1 million won ($875) fine. The regulations include limiting the time people can use their own tents in designated areas to between 9 a.m. and 7 p.m. The most controversial one forces people to keep at least two sides of their tents open. This is supposed to prevent "inappropriate behavior" in closed tents in public spaces. Those who approve of the new measures say they are essential to foster a healthy and sound culture at riverside parks that families with children visit. "I often see young couples, maybe students, who indulge in excessive public displays of affection in tents at public parks that could offend some people visiting them. In this regard, I think the decision to ban closed tents is proper," said an office worker, surnamed Jin who often visits a nearby park with his daughters. Sweepers who clean up the parks said it is not rare to find contraceptive devices or hear "noises" coming from certain tents. Another frequent park visitor, who declined to be identified, said, "Although I think it's a bit uncomfortable keeping the tent open with so many people passing by, I can put up with it as long as it gets rid of inappropriate acts in public places." However, others say the regulations are excessive, describing it as invading people's privacy. "The riverside parks are public places, but the inside of a tent is a private space. Therefore, it is none of Seoul City's business to check on what people do in tents," said Yu Jin-hee, who often goes for walks in Mangwon Hangang Park in Mapo-gu, western Seoul. "By that logic, those who kiss in public places have to be clamped down on." Lee Ah-in, who lives near Nanji Hangang Park in Mapo, said, "People set up tents to take an undisturbed rest in a private space, so it would disturb me if people could see me in my tent." In addition, this particular regulation states that two sides of a tent must be left open even if it is raining, triggering complaints that flexibility is needed depending on the situation. According to the city, about 40 million people visited Seoul's 11 riverside parks in 2008, but that number surged to 75 million by 2017. By Park Si-soo You may have the experience of pulling a sedan or SUV weighing one to two tons to jumpstart the engine or remove cars parked bumper to bumper. But how about pulling an 11-ton fire engine? Twenty-one bulky muscle men all firefighters faced the challenge on Thursday for the seemingly mission impossible in the second "Strong Men" festival hosted by the Seoul Metropolitan Fire and Disaster Headquarters. Each firefighter was given 40 seconds to pull a rope tied to the truck. Yeom Jung-pil from Jungbu Fire Station ranked first by pulling the vehicle 17.9 meters. He won 300,000 won ($255). Runner-up was Suh Young-jae from Sungbuk Fire Station (13.4 meters) and third was Lim Hyun-sup from a special firefighting squad (12 meters). "This event was organized to promote the importance of leaving designated emergency roads and spaces empty 24/7 for fire trucks in the event of an emergency," said Lee Gang-won, a spokesman for Seoul Metropolitan Fire and Disaster Headquarters. "We wanted to express a sense of importance firefighters have through the event." Rep. Lee In-young, left, newly elected floor leader of the ruling Democratic Party of Korea (DPK) shakes hands with Rep. Na Kyung-won, floor leader of the main opposition Liberty Korea Party (LKP) in their first meeting since Lee took the office on Wednesday at the National Assembly, Thursday. Yonhap By Park Ji-won Rep. Lee In-young, new floor leader of the ruling Democratic Party of Korea (DPK), asked the main opposition Liberty Korea Party (LKP), Thursday, to join efforts to normalize the National Assembly, which has been paralyzed due to disagreements over fast-tracked reform bills. Lee, elected to the post Wednesday, made a courtesy visit to the office of Rep. Na Kyung-won, floor leader of the LKP. Lee told Na he wants to share ideas about bringing parliamentary sessions back on track. "I hope you could consider the fact that the May 18 Gwangju Democratic Uprising is approaching and suggest the LKP participate in the parliamentary activities and revise related laws to resolve pending issues," Lee said. By Ann McFeatters WASHINGTON Wow! As if we didn't know before, we now have irrefutable evidence that not only is Donald Trump a liar (10,000 misstatements of fact while in office), has no memory (he said he couldn't remember anything he was asked about his contacts with Russia) and, now, it turns out he's one of the worst business people in the history of the world. And four out of 10 of Americans say they love him! We do seem to like our con artists, self-promoters and scofflaws. But the fact that Trump lost "two cents out of every business dollar lost in the entire United States" from 1984 to 1995 (over $1 billion) does prove his promise that he would treat the U.S. treasury as he would his own money. He's a terrible businessman. Add $2 trillion to the national debt for tax cuts for the 1 percent? No problem. After all, he didn't even pay any taxes for eight years, possibly longer. Now, he is claiming that Congress has no right to information to which he had already waived privilege. Now he is saying the entire Mueller report (paid for by the American people) on Russian manipulation of American voters is secret. No congressional oversight. No cooperation with Congress unless it is controlled by wimpy Republicans who back the immoral Trump at every turn, members who then go home and make a big show of going to church. Yecch. This is Trump's strategy, carelessly revealed by those same wimps. Goad the House Democrats into impeaching Trump for obstruction of justice among other high crimes and misdemeanors. But, then, the Senate, controlled by Republicans, will refuse to convict Trump, who will then run for re-election in 2020. And maybe, if Democrats can't get their act together a strong possibility he wins a second term and destroys the country by setting the precedent that presidents are above the rule of law. He starts trade wars. He alienates our allies. He gives comfort to murderers and dictators. He separates children from their parents, without adequate paperwork so they can't be reunited. He deregulates business so heavily that conglomerates rule everything. He surrounds himself with loyalists who do his bidding at the expense of the country. He increases the divide between the haves and the have-nots. He refuses to pay for natural disasters. He foments racial hate and intolerance. He bullies. Most of all, he destroys the idea of America as a shining city on the hill, moral and wise arbiter, reliable partner, defender of human rights. Trump has convinced millions of Americans that his chaos, scoffing at laws and disregard for the separation of powers is the new normal, that autocracy is not so bad if the economy is growing and the stock market is on a roll. And Trump has convinced millions not to believe in the institutions a democracy depends on, such as a free press and the Constitution. Most of these issues will be decided in the courts, which, of course, is exactly why Trump is stuffing the courts with his people judges who will serve for life. There is a lot to be said for bromides, as in "power corrupts, and absolute power corrupts absolutely." Let's not get lost in Trump's swamp. Let's remember what is important to us freedom, decency, honesty, knowledge, kindness, fairness, know-how and a can-do spirit. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has good instincts. She understands that impeaching Trump would play into his self-promoting, self-marketing hands he would cry that he was railroaded, that he is a victim. When she says Trump is "self-impeachable," she is saying that Trump is doing enough damage to his presidency all by himself. Let him have at it. There is one way to get out of this mess, one way for us to reclaim the country. Don't re-elect Donald Trump. Seven hundred prosecutors signed on to a letter stating that if Trump were not president, he would be charged with obstruction of justice, a felony. Well, someday, he won't be in office; let's work to see that justice then will be done. Ann McFeatters (amcfeatters@nationalpress.com) is an op-ed columnist for Tribune News Service. It was distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. IT giant representing Korea ought to behave better Samsung BioLogics was caught hiding its high-capacity server and some employees' laptop computers under the floor of its factory in Songdo, Incheon, in May last year. Around the same time, an employee of its subsidiary, Samsung Bioepis, was also found to have a company server concealed at his home. The two firms, biopharmaceutical units of Samsung Group, are under investigation for accounting fraud. We have to be disappointed when looking at how the two affiliates of the global business group were so desperate to destroy evidence that they had to remove their factory floor. We are also ashamed not only of their unethical behavior but the lowly, pathetic way they coped with a crisis. Samsung BioLogics is suspected of window-dressing its books to help ease the transfer of management control from Lee Kun-hee to his son Jae-yong. In 2015 when the former Cheil Industries was merged into Samsung C&T, the group was accused of inflating the asset value of Samsung BioLogics, then a subsidiary of Cheil Industries. Whether and how much Samsung Group resorted to unlawful means in the management succession process will be uncovered in the course of the investigation and any subsequent trials. Given the facts that have already been made public, however, we find it difficult to conceal our disappointment. By its size and reputation, Samsung should remain an enterprise admired and recognized not just by Koreans but by its global customers as well. If the group is found to have been bent on protecting the interests of large shareholders without a modicum of ethics, Samsung will hardly be able to expect any local support. Now the prosecutors' attention is moving toward Samsung's "top managers." Law enforcement officers have reportedly uncovered circumstantial evidence that some executives in the taskforce that support the business of Samsung Electronics, the group's flagship company, were involved in the destruction of evidence. To maintain its reputation, Samsung should comply with the investigation in a fair and square manner, and take due responsibility if it committed any wrongdoing. If the nation's largest and most famous company keeps asking for leniency without showing a minimal sense of honor, it will be hard for Koreans to expect a bright future for both the company and corporate Korea. By Donald Kirk WASHINGTON Well, that was quick. After a day of headlines the salvo of long-range projectiles fired by the North Koreans was history, yesterday's news. Reverberations of the shots faded away while experts wondered if those were missiles or just extra long-range artillery. Actually, whatever they were, Kim Jong-un will have to try a little harder if he thinks he's scaring anyone. No one here really thinks he's about to order an attack on American forces in South Korea, much less on anything else including targets in the U.S. Maybe the reaction here should have been hysterical. Since he didn't get much of a rise out of the American mass media, Congress, the Pentagon or the White House, maybe he'll try again firing more and better and still longer-range projectiles, if not missiles. Americans face a much more immediate real and present danger of just about anyone with a pistol or rifle firing into a crowd. No, the shooter has no chance of escaping, but he can kill or wound people while Americans again debate the constitutional if not the sacred right of just about anyone to own a weapon. In the latest shooting, one student was killed and others injured in an elite high school in Colorado. That was a week after two university students were killed and several wounded across the U.S. in North Carolina. The fact is, Kim Jong-un is not America's most dangerous enemy, and he is far from the likeliest to go around killing anyone, not counting those tied to posts and shot by firing squads for failing to do his bidding or posing threats to his regime. Americans can rest easy as far as the threat from North Korea is concerned. As the terrifying sounds of gunfire echo time and again across the U.S., it's obvious that Americans are their own worst enemies. We can muster all the sophisticated weaponry needed to counter a serious challenge from North Korea, but we seem helpless in the face of random attacks by American citizens shooting up other Americans. Politicos are so afraid of the power of gun lobbyists, led by the dreaded National Rifle Association, that Congress and state legislatures dare not begin to outlaw possession of weapons. Rapid-firing assault rifles such as those used by soldiers around the world may not be absolutely legal but are easily obtained by those who want them. In the midst of the uproar, some certified idiots believe that teachers should now have pistols in their desks to counter obstreperous students who might be hell bent on killing someone. This idea is utterly ridiculous, however, when you consider how quickly any nut with a gun can blast away before a nearby teacher had a moment to reach for his or her pistol. Keep up the demand for self-defensive weapons, and pretty soon Americans will routinely be walking around with pistols bulging in their belts, ready to annihilate suspected shooters, whether they've opened fire or not. The prospect of shootouts in drunken brawls, impassioned debates, revenge grudges and fits of driver rage on the highways is all too obvious. The old self-defense line is common. In a number of U.S. states, "stand-your-ground" laws give Americans the right to fire away when threatened. The point at which a threat merits opening fire is widely debated. The line between aggressive assault and self-defense is blurred, and who's to know whose story or explanation is right. No one believes in the right to self-defense more than Kim Jong-un. That's the rationale he asserts to clinging to his nuclear arsenal and missiles needed to send warheads to distant targets. Pro-northers in the U.S. defend him, saying, well, he test-fired that sophisticated new weaponry the other day after the U.S. tested a missile designed to counter one of the North's intercontinental ballistic missiles. Sure, as if the U.S. did not have the right to try and shoot down a missile whooshing toward American soil at a speed faster than that of sound. But such talk is abstract, theoretical. The hard truth is that more than 40,000 Americans were killed by gunfire last year. The figure includes individual murders, suicides, accidents, everything, about as many as died in motor vehicle accidents in the same period. Nobody's seriously expecting Kim Jong-un to order a mass killing other than that of victims of his own gulag system. It's hard to imagine his forces killing thousands with those missiles and warheads that he refuses to give up. Americans face a vastly greater threat from other Americans a reminder of the old Pogo cartoon line, "We have met the enemy, and he is us." Donald Kirk (www.donaldkirk.com) has been covering war and peace for decades. Credit: Austin LordPeter Frampton was among the honorees at the 2019 Music Biz Awards, held Tuesday night in Nashville, Billboard reports. The veteran guitar whiz was presented with the Chairman's Award for Sustained Creative Achievement at the Music Biz 2019 Awards & Hall of Fame Dinner. In accepting the award, Frampton, who recently was diagnosed with a degenerative muscle disease that's forcing him to retire from touring soon, expressed his gratitude for being able to enjoy a career as a musician. He also revealed that he and his band recently have recorded four albums and are spending as much time as possible in the studio, since his ailment will eventually rob him of his ability to play guitar. "I've never recorded this much in my life, but I have to do that right now because this year will be my final tour," Frampton noted. "Unfortunately, it's not because I want to stopWe all have our battles. I am having some health problems, but I really am the luckiest guy because my passion for my music has kept me going through many, many years of up and down, up and down, sideways." He added, "The support and love I have received since I announced my health issue has been absolutely overwhelmingThank you for this incredible award. I don't deserve it, but I thank you dearly." As previously reported, Frampton will release a blues covers album titled All Blues on June 7, and will launch his Finale -- The Farewell Tour on June 18 in Catoosa, Oklahoma. Jason Bonham's Led Zeppelin Evening will serve as opening act at most of the shows. Meanwhile, you can check out a humorous video promoting the trek on Frampton's Facebook page that features Peter and Joe Walsh discussing the importance of keeping their talk-box tubes clean. Copyright 2019, ABC Radio. All rights reserved. White yaks in Tianzhu Tibetan autonomous county (Photo/CRI online) A Chinese man in Tianzhu Tibetan autonomous county of Wuwei City, northwest Chinas Gansu Province, sold 1.5 million yuan ($220,000) worth of local white yak products in 2018 by showing his processing workshops and local life via webcasts. Zhang Xingsheng, also known by his fans and customers as the yak guy, is a 34-year-old webcast host who sells local white yak products on Taobao Live, a live-streaming platform of Chinas popular online shopping website Taobao. During last years Singles Day (also known as Double 11) shopping spree, Zhang completed transactions of over 1.1 million yuan. With an area of 4 square meters, Zhangs room for webcasting is not big, but cozy. Normally we make four webcasts a week, with each lasting for about two hours, said Zhang. He explained that at first, they didnt attract many viewers, but after he started to show things like the processing workshops, the mountainous grassland where the yaks graze, and the life of the herdsmen, people became fascinated. Zhang set up his own company in his hometown to sell local specialties including white yak products, ginseng fruit, and quinoa on e-commerce platforms in September 2016. Before that, he had been working for an airplane manufacturer in east China after graduating from junior college in 2009. Being away from home for a long time made him feel lonely, said Zhang, disclosing that his father passed away when he was in the first year of high school, and he missed seeing his grandfather for the last time while he was away. He decided it was important to quit his job and move closer to his family. Zhang suffered setbacks when he first opened three online stores on e-commerce platforms, and went on to lose almost all of his savings. However, in June 2017, Zhang opened a webcast account on Taobao Live. My first webcast had less than 20 viewers, so I went to watch how popular webcast hosts interact with viewers and started to learn from them, said Zhang, disclosing that he was the only member of his company then, playing the roles of boss and employee at the same time. Now, Zhang has more than 14,000 followers on Taobao Live. Besides the efforts of Zhangs e-commerce team, his success can also be attributed to support from the local county government and the help of an e-commerce company in north Chinas Tianjin Municipality, which was brought in to help develop e-commerce in the local area by the commerce departments of Tianjin and Gansu. The company has worked with Zhangs own company since September 2018, making plans to further promote Zhangs products via webcasts. After more than a year's experience in live-streaming, Zhang has mastered the secret of being a successful e-commerce webcast host. He explained, after interacting with so many netizens, Ive felt the enormous vigor of Chinas consumer market. People are now paying more attention to the quality of goods, rather than the price. Online live-streaming programmes show people real materials and the ecology of the place of production. I believe our sales will double this year, reaching 3 million yuan, said Zhang. BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT: Fresh Paint Gallery, 1020 Prospect St., La Jolla , opened in January with work by local artists Patrick Brown, Billy Hawkins and Weston Riffle and a special focus showcasing emerging talent. For owner Deborah Williams, its the realization of a dream that started in college. I began working in art galleries by framing and hanging exhibits and I just loved it, she told La Jolla Light. Then, while we were living in Mumbai, India for 11 years through my husbands job, I started collecting work by emerging Indian artists. Collecting led to curating. I discovered I had a knack for picking up-and-coming artists. When we moved to La Jolla, with my kids in high school and college, I knew it was the right time to open my own gallery. Its very rewarding to introduce others to the pleasure of discovering a new favorite artist, and of getting in on collecting their work before everyone else discovers them! Thats what motivates me. When choosing which artists to feature, Williams said she looks for those who are consistently producing quality work and who have developed a distinct and original voice. They need to be doing something different from whats out there, she explained. Then, in general, I want to see art that feels necessary that even has a sense of urgency to it. And I want work that requires something from the viewer. Obvious art is boring. As a viewer, I want to be challenged or intrigued or surprised. I find art that requires the viewer to engage his or her intellect is usually art with staying power. Its a good investment. Art that is simply decorative can go out of fashion. Fresh Paint Gallerys exterior ( Courtesy ) Even though there are many galleries already in La Jolla, Williams said she wasnt daunted by the competition, but rather, encouraged by it: I chose to open here, partly to be close to home, but also because The Village has a great vibe, dependable foot traffic and a sophisticated clientele with an interest in art and enough disposable income to be able to afford it. Also, there was a niche here I saw that I could fill. Her particular niche is showing contemporary art thats edgy but relatively affordable, which she believes sets her apart from other galleries, and that shes hoping to appeal to a younger clientele. I find young people are interested in art if it feels relevant to them, she explained. It needs to have something to say about their experience of the world. Also, of course, young people have less disposable income than older folks, so the art needs to be affordable. Fresh Paint Gallery changes its exhibits every eight weeks. A show of abstract work by San Diego mixed-media artist Renee Bareno just closed. The current show features a collection of abstract expressionist paintings by Indian artist Gurdeep Singh. Hes one of the most exciting young painters in India, Williams insists, and I am thrilled to be able to introduce his energetic and joyful work to San Diego art lovers. The Singh exhibit will run until June 30. Williams said she also has plans to sell art online by the end of the year as a way to reach a broader audience. I feel strongly that its important to see works in person, as there is much a camera cant capture. However, I also recognize that one has to sell online these days in order to be competitive, especially with younger people who get so much of their information online, she said. Fresh Paint Gallery is at 1020-B Prospect St., La Jolla. To receive information on upcoming exhibits, send an e-mail to info@freshpaintgallery.com or visit freshpaintgallery.com Business Spotlight features commercial enterprises that support La Jolla Light. Untitled, oil on canvas by Gurdeep Singh ( Courtesy ) With nothing on the consent agenda, and the only development projects docketed for full review postponed to next month, the La Jolla Community Planning Association (LJCPA) dedicated its May 2 meeting at the Rec Center to discussing miscellaneous issues about which theyd like to be involved. These include Senate housing legislation, the longstanding debate over whether an image above the McLaren car dealership is a mural or an advertisement, vehicle habitation, tracking projects once they leave community review groups and more. Senate Bills on Housing In regard to SB 330 and SB 50, several trustees asked that appropriate reps attend a future meeting to explain the details of the bills and how they could impact La Jolla. SB 330, dubbed the Housing Crisis Act of 2019, would suspend specific local rules and regulations that are recognized as obstacles to housing production, according to its author, State Senator Nancy Skinner (Democrat, representing the East Bay). SB 50, aka the More HOMES Act, eliminates hyper-low-density zoning near public transit and job centers, thus legalizing apartment buildings and affordable housing in these locations so that more people can live near transit, said author Senator Scott Weiner (Democrat, representing San Francisco and parts of San Mateo County). One stipulation of these bills concerning La Jollans is whether they would suspend the coastal height limit on new development. Addressing San Diego City Council member Barbara Brys field rep Mauricio Medina, LJCPA trustee Diane Kane said: I would like to relay to our Council member that the people Ive been talking to are highly concerned about this so we would like to get some of this out in the open. A lot of this is being sold as affordable housing, but the reality is there is no affordable housing at the beach. If you build it, they will come because there is unlimited demand for people who want to live at the beach. Medina responded that Bry is against SB 330 and SB 50, but it is really at the State level and he suggested reaching out to San Diegos representative, Senator Toni Atkins. Trustees requested a formal presentation at a future meeting, and that the LJCPA take a position on these bills, which would likely end in a letter to City and State reps. McLaren Mural LJCPA, once again, requested its Planned District Ordinance (PDO) sub-committee issue findings regarding the sign over the McLaren car dealership at 7440 La Jolla Blvd. The image is of a McLaren car, which is sold at the dealership below, leaving some to question whether it is a mural or a billboard. The McLaren image above the dealership on La Jolla Boulevard has La Jolla Community Planning Association board members wondering if its a mural or a billboard. Ashley Mackin-Solomon The board first requested the PDO issue findings on this issue in January. Trustee Glen Rasmussen pointed out: The concern was referred to them and we asked them to review the McLaren image. I would like to ask the PDO to make findings about that sign and also the one at 1111 Prospect St. that advertises The Conrad (Prebys Performing Arts Center). The PDO should make factual findings: Does it conform to the Planned District Ordinance Committee? Period. At that point, LJCPA could discuss the findings. PDO chair Deborah Marengo spoke at the last LJCPA meeting, but the PDO board has not made a formal recommendation on the image. Interns project Kane said there are UC San Diego interns who have been volunteering for the LJCPA board, and one is working on spreadsheet that would record how LJCPA decisions correlate to City decisions on development. We want to get a sense of how many projects we dont approve, get approved at the City level, Kane said. Our intern did not complete the work, but I will get it to this board to see what she did find and see if community review makes a difference. Vehicle habitation letter At its last meeting, LJCPA voted to send a letter to the City, urging the proper departments to create an ordinance prohibiting vehicular habitation on City streets especially in residential neighborhoods, parking lots and City parks. LJCPA chair Tony Crisafi announced the letter was sent soon after the meeting. While homelessness is an acute problem in San Diego, vehicular habitation will only create another problem, the letter reads. Permanent homeless encampments will become legal if vehicular habitation is allowed in specific locations. Permanent homeless encampments would be a predictable problem in parking lots at City beaches and parks. Vehicular habitation is not transitional or temporary, furnishing housing and appropriate social services will contribute to solving the homelessness problem. Pulled from the agenda Two projects that were slated for a full review were postponed to next months meeting at the applicants request. They are the Panorama Homes project for 1188 Muirlands Drive and Sugarman project for 8356 Sugarman Drive. Panorama Homes looks to construct two new single-family dwelling units on two vacant lots. The West House at 1188 Muirlands Drive totals 8,451 square feet and the East House at 1200 Muirlands Drive totals 8,510 square feet. The vacant lots total .56 acres and .61 acres, respectively. When heard at the La Jolla Development Permit Review Committee, the board determined that findings could be made for the project. Sugarman project looks to construct a two-story 5,694-square-foot single-family house with 1,217-square-foot basement garage on a vacant lot at 8356 Sugarman Drive. The La Jolla Shores Permit Review Committee determined that findings could not be made for the project. Banner issues Trustee Dan Courtney opined that La Jolla is getting cluttered up with banners being hung across bridges and overpasses throughout town. My understanding is that it is illegal to hang these banners on City structures and bridges, he said. Citing the overpass across Torrey Pines Road near La Jolla Parkway, Courtney said he has noticed large banners advertising local events that negatively impact the beauty of La Jolla. He said he filed a complaint about such banners with San Diego Code Compliance and would report back to the board with whatever findings Code Compliance makes. Phone gone The LJCPA phone line has been disconnected due to lack of use and to save money on the recurring bill. Henceforth, the only way to reach the board will be through e-mail at info@lajollacpa.org or by attending meetings. Dancers of China's Suzhou Ballet Theater perform Tang Yin in Bydgoszcz, Poland, on May 7, 2019. Invited by the 26th Bydgoszcz Opera Festival, China's Suzhou Ballet Theater troupe performed its original ballet Tang Yin in Poland on Monday, giving the audiences a taste of Chinese artistic elements in ballet. (Xinhua/Zhou Nan) WARSAW, May 6 (Xinhua) -- Invited by the 26th Bydgoszcz Opera Festival, China's Suzhou Ballet Theater troupe performed its original ballet Tang Yin in Poland on Monday, giving the audiences a taste of Chinese artistic elements in ballet. Tang Yin is about the bumpy life of the protagonist Tang Yin, a talented and romantic scholar born and died in Suzhou, south of the Yangtze River, about 500 years ago in China's Ming Dynasty. This ballet applies freehand brushwork, such as the shadow on the wall, the flower beside the pillow, to strengthen its aesthetic effect. It also uses the music of Arvo Part, an Estonian composer, and combines traditional and modern dances. Li Ying, artistic director of the Suzhou Ballet Theater, said she was very pleased that the troupe is invited to perform in Poland during the Bydgoszcz Opera Festival. "It is a matter of a great significance to us, a young ballet group of 12 years," she added. "Through the performance, we try to present the oriental beauty to the audience in Europe, in the hope that the audience would like the Chinese culture," Li said. Liu Guangyuan, Chinese ambassador to Poland, said this year marks the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Poland. The visit of Suzhou Ballet Theater troupe has demonstrated the close cooperation between the two countries in the field of art. Suzhou Ballet Theater troupe is on a 12-day tour in Latvia and Poland. This is the first time that Tang Yin ballet is performed abroad. In 2015, at the invitation of the Bydgoszcz Opera Festival, the Suzhou troupe visited Poland and performed ballet Carmen. Found in 2007, Suzhou Ballet Theater is the only professional ballet troupe in Jiangsu province and the sixth in China. It aims to create original ballet, combining Chinese and western styles. Bitcoin Setting Up For Another Drop Last year just days before the big Bitcoin breakdown we notified everyone publicly to get ready for a swift drop from $6000 to $4000 which played out perfectly within a few days. Our cycle system and technical analysis skills combined can pack a powerful punch and this one of those incredible moves where the stars aligned for us as traders. October 12, 2018 Post and Chart Here We then further updated our followers in March of this year that a breakout was about to take place and a run to $6000 should take place. After that upside breakout move on April 8th, we posted this video further confirming $5800-$6000 was still the target. Today/May Bitcoin appears to be setting up a broader top formation that suggests another move lower is about to unfold. This first Daily chart highlights both support and resistance in Bitcoin. The Resistance goes all the way back to July 2018 where a Three River Morning Star pattern set up a gap with a Doji Star formation. This created the support level that was ultimately broken in November 2018. Support formed near $4000 in early 2019 with similar types of gap formations. This support level was ultimately broken in April 2019 with a move back up to resistance near $6000. We believe the setup of the most recent price activity is setting up a classic three mountains top formation. A weak price rotation prompting a downside price move right now could be a short term ultimately top with next support near $5000. We believe a fairly quick downside price move toward the $4400 level (or lower) near support. Once price move to near the $4400 price level, or lower, if the support level is broken, we could see the price of Bitcoin fall all the way towards the $3500 level or lower. Fibonacci price theory suggests the failed high price move, near $7500, would represent a major failed high. This failure suggests a move lower attempting to establish a new price low. For this to happen, the price of Bitcoin would have to fall below $3000 which may sound crazy, but so was $20,000 bitcoin! Watch for a reversal to unfold in the coming days, could be another opportunity to profit from another cryptocurrency collapse. Any failure of this breakdown/reversal move would suggest Bitcoin is setting up a new Pennant/Flag formation where the price will trade sideways before prompting a bigger breakout move. We believe a price breakdown is about to unfold and we expect prices to fall below $4400 within 14 to 28 days. If you want to know when we get long Silver next be sure to join our Wealth Trading Newsletter and get our trading signals. In fact, we are giving away and shipping FREE Silver rounds for select membership levels for the next few days. Chris Vermeulen www.TheTechnicalTraders.com Chris Vermeulen has been involved in the markets since 1997 and is the founder of Technical Traders Ltd. He is an internationally recognized technical analyst, trader, and is the author of the book: 7 Steps to Win With Logic Through years of research, trading and helping individual traders around the world. He learned that many traders have great trading ideas, but they lack one thing, they struggle to execute trades in a systematic way for consistent results. Chris helps educate traders with a three-hour video course that can change your trading results for the better. His mission is to help his clients boost their trading performance while reducing market exposure and portfolio volatility. He is a regular speaker on HoweStreet.com, and the FinancialSurvivorNetwork radio shows. Chris was also featured on the cover of AmalgaTrader Magazine, and contributes articles to several leading financial hubs like MarketOracle.co.uk Disclaimer: Nothing in this report should be construed as a solicitation to buy or sell any securities mentioned. Technical Traders Ltd., its owners and the author of this report are not registered broker-dealers or financial advisors. Before investing in any securities, you should consult with your financial advisor and a registered broker-dealer. Never make an investment based solely on what you read in an online or printed report, including this report, especially if the investment involves a small, thinly-traded company that isnt well known. Technical Traders Ltd. and the author of this report has been paid by Cardiff Energy Corp. In addition, the author owns shares of Cardiff Energy Corp. and would also benefit from volume and price appreciation of its stock. The information provided here within should not be construed as a financial analysis but rather as an advertisement. The authors views and opinions regarding the companies featured in reports are his own views and are based on information that he has researched independently and has received, which the author assumes to be reliable. Technical Traders Ltd. and the author of this report do not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or usefulness of any content of this report, nor its fitness for any particular purpose. Lastly, the author does not guarantee that any of the companies mentioned in the reports will perform as expected, and any comparisons made to other companies may not be valid or come into effect. Chris Vermeulen Archive 2005-2019 http://www.MarketOracle.co.uk - The Market Oracle is a FREE Daily Financial Markets Analysis & Forecasting online publication. On 3-4 May 2019, the Thirteenth Congress of the Revolutionary Workers' Party was held in Russia. Dozens of congress delegates voted to unify with the Russian section of the International Marxist Tendency, and the unified organisation voted to join the IMT! Read the original report in Russian | The congress was attended by representatives of regional organisations in Moscow, Primorye, Bashkortostan, Saratov, Nizhny Novgorod, St. Petersburg, Krasnodar Territory, Krasnoyarsk Territory, the Republic of Belarus, Chuvashia, the Komi Republic and others. In addition, representatives of the Russian section of the International Marxist Tendency took direct part in the work of the congress. A number of representatives of different left-wing political organisations were also present, including the Red Front, the Left Front and the United Communist Party. At the congress, the updated perspectives and programme of the party were approved, as well as a resolution on the current situation in Russia and worldwide. Its leading bodies were also elected. The comrades decision to unite will strengthen the Bolshevik-Leninist communist movement in the post-Soviet countries, and is a marked step forward for the forces of Trotskyism worldwide. Long live workers' democracy and international socialism! VANCOUVER, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Chinese technology giant Huawei said in a statement on Wednesday that the company has always been confident in the innocence of its chief financial officer (CFO) Meng Wanzhou, who was arrested in Vancouver last December at the extradition request of the United States. "We have maintained that her U.S.-ordered arrest was an unlawful abuse of process - one guided by political considerations and tactics, not by the rule of law," the statement said, after Meng attended a court hearing in Vancouver on Wednesday morning local time. The statement was made by Benjamin Howes, vice president of Canadian media affairs at Huawei, outside the British Columbia Supreme Court. "The criminal case against Ms. Meng is based on allegations that are simply not true. To the contrary, it was made clear in court today that business activities by Ms. Meng were conducted openly and transparently with full knowledge of banking officials," Howes said. The lawyers noted in court that there is no evidence to prove that Meng committed acts of deceit, dishonesty, or other fraudulent means, according to the statement. The actions against Meng led to serious and repeated violations of her rights, the statement said. Her luggage was searched, her cellphone and other electronic devices were seized, and she was compelled to reveal her passwords. It was revealed that the arrest of Meng violated a core principle of Canada-U.S. extradition treaty and Canada's extradition law, because the allegation she faces is not a crime in Canada, the statement said. "Political factors at play during the extradition process may lead to a serious violation of justice. Ms. Meng's legitimate rights may also be harmed. Thus Ms. Meng intends to apply to this Court for a stay of the extradition proceedings," Howes said. Canadians value the rule of law, and law-enforcement officials are expected to follow the rules at all times, in all cases and for all people - citizens and visitors alike, according to the statement. "We have trust in the Canadian judicial process - and we look forward to seeing Ms. Meng's freedom restored," Howes added. Meng was arrested on Dec. 1, 2018, at Vancouver's airport at the request of the United States, which is seeking her extradition on fraud charges. Both Meng and Huawei have repeatedly denied any wrongdoing. APO Group (www.APO-opa.com), the leading media relations consultancy and press release distribution service in Africa and the Middle East, has been named Principal Partner to the Africa Women Entrepreneurship and Innovation Forum (AWIEF) Conference to assist in amplifying the forums message and core objective of empowering women entrepreneurs across the African continent. The annual Africa Women Innovation and Entrepreneurship Forum (AWIEF) Conference, Exhibition and Awards will further benefit from APO Groups core service as they serve as Official Newswire for the annual conference, awards and expo. AWIEF (www.AWIEForum.org) is a Pan-African non-profit organisation dedicated to promoting and supporting womens economic empowerment across Africa, through innovation and entrepreneurship. In 2018 the AWIEF annual conference, awards and expo hosted 1300 attendees, 650 delegates as well as over 50 exhibitors at the expo featuring 300 young entrepreneurs. AWIEF hosts events throughout the year and runs programmes to mentor, fund and grow women entrepreneurs on the continent. AWIEFs mandate is supported by some of Africas biggest banks, pan African development Organisations, foreign missions, and eminent persons including former Heads of State, Government ministers and leaders of multinational companies. AWIEF will host its prestigious annual conference, exhibition and awards, at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC), 29-30 October 2019, with the theme, Enhancing impact: digitalisation, investment and intra-African trade. In honour of the partnership, APO Group is also the founding sponsor of a new award, the African Women in Media Award, at the annual AWIEF Awards. This prize crowns the establishment of a new category of Award introduced to honour and celebrate women journalists across the continent. As a company where 60% of our management team are women who drive our entrepreneurial corporate culture, it was natural for us to partner with AWIEF, says Lionel Reina, CEO of APO Group. Studies inform us that women typically invest 90% of their earnings back into their families and communities, this is the inspiration for APO Group which echoes our dedication to invest in the media industry of Africa. We are extremely excited to work with AWIEF to help promote the narrative of African womens successes in entrepreneurship. We are proud that we can recognise the support media has given to female entrepreneurs through the APO sponsored African Women in Media Award. Diarietou Gaye, World Bank Director of Strategy and Operations for the Africa Region, identified Africa as, the only region in the world where more women than men choose to become entrepreneurs. The MasterCard Index of Women Entrepreneurs 2017 (https://mstr.cd/2zJdNp8) has also listed two African countries, Uganda (34.8%) and Botswana (34.6%), as having the highest percentage of women entrepreneurs globally. Additionally, womens entrepreneurial activity has improved by 10% globally since 2014, says the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM) Report for Women 2016/17 (https://bit.ly/307bvtA). The significance of the female economy is considered to have the potential to add $12 trillion to global GDP by 2025 according to McKinsey (https://mck.co/2jjXZi6). Irene Ochem, Founder and CEO of AWIEF, said: AWIEF is honoured and excited to be partnering with APO Group, as the biggest media communications group in Africa and the Middle East in terms of reach and brand significance. This will help to amplify and magnify our work in Africa and beyond for the economic empowerment of women across the continent. The APO Group African Women in Media Award recognises and celebrates women media professionals. We are delighted to honour trailblazing women journalists on the continent, who in turn, are uplifting other women as successful entrepreneurs through their reporting, story-telling and documenting, noted Ochem. AWIEF support comes from global organisations such as UN Women, the African Development Bank (AfDB) and the European Union-funded Technical Centre for Agricultural and Rural Cooperation (CTA). Partners and sponsors also include: Shell, Nedbank, City of Cape Town, Bank of Industry, Nigeria, GE, AGRA, Embassy of Sweden (Nigeria and South Africa), Embassy of Switzerland (South Africa) , IDC, MTN Business, ARC, Johnson & Johnson, Old Mutual, and Tsogo Sun. Partager et informez vous aussi...... 0 shares Share Tweet LinkedIn 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. (Photo/Dushikuaibao) A young couple in Hangzhou, eastern China's Zhejiang province recently went viral on Chinese social media for their "bold" move to quit their jobs to travel around China. The couple, named Xiaolong and Xiaoxi, both 26 years old, first quit their jobs in July 2016, as husband Xiaolong promised his wife a spur-of-the-moment trip as soon as they had saved enough money. They traveled over 30,000 kilometers in a car bought by Xiaolong's parents, and ended the trip at the beginning of 2017. "We quit our jobs not because we were rich or out of recklessness, but because we didn't want to delay our plans," Xiaolong explained. Before the trip ended, the couple found new jobs and their income doubled. However, they quit again in mid-2018 and spent eight months taking another trip that covered 86,000 kilometers, visiting over 90 percent of China's prefecture-level cities. According to Xiaolong, all the expenses, totaling around 500,000 yuan, were covered by the couple. They didn't ask for any help from their parents. "We don't freeload, and we are independent," he said. However, the two trips did get a negative response from potential employers, who labeled the pair as "irresponsible". The couple said they have no regrets, because they followed their hearts. "We broadened our horizon, and now feel at peace," Xiaolong said. 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. American soybean growers have urged the White House to rapidly conclude the trade talks with China, in response to the announcement from President Donald Trump on Sunday that he would raise tariffs on imports from China. President Trump's announcement, which was made on Twitter, said the 10 percent tariff currently on 200 billion U.S. dollars' worth of goods from China would rise to 25 percent on May 10. He also announced plans to tax an additional 325 billion U.S. dollars' worth of imports with a 25 percent tariff. In response, the American Soybean Association released a statement on Tuesday in which the association's president, Davie Stephens, described the new tariff plan as "a predicament for soy growers". Stephens said that "farmers are in a desperate situation" and their "patience is wearing thin" as the negotiations drag on. "We need a positive resolution of this ongoing tariff dispute, not further escalation of tensions," said Stephens. The association's statement said the trade dispute with China had led to a fall in American soybean exports to the world's largest soybean customer. China imposed a 25 percent tariff on American soybeans last July in response to the introduction of new tariffs by the United States on 34 billion dollars' worth of imports from China. The soybean growers urged the Trump administration to postpone the planned expansion of the tariffs and to reach a deal with China as soon as possible that would include lifting the Section 301 tariffs in exchange for China removing its retaliatory tariff on American soybeans. "We need the China market reopened to U.S. soybean exports within weeks, not months or longer." said Stephens. On Wednesday, China said it would respond with countermeasures if the United States goes ahead with its plan to raise tariffs. The Ministry of Commerce expressed regret over the planned move by the United States, saying that an escalation in the trade frictions goes against the interests of the two sides and the world at large. This latest flare up in the trade dispute comes as China's Vice Premier Liu He heads to Washington at the invitation of U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin for the 11th round of negotiations, which will be held on Thursday and Friday. [May 09, 2019] UnitedHealthcare Helps Support Moms' and Babies' Health Before and After Delivery with New Bundled Payment Program for Maternity Care UnitedHealthcare, a UnitedHealth Group (NYSE: UNH) company, has introduced a new bundled payment program for maternity care to help support the well-being of moms and babies before and after delivery by closing gaps in care and encouraging healthy, full-term pregnancies. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190509005149/en/ Here are facts and tips to consider related to women's health and childbirth, including information to help encourage healthy, full-term deliveries (Source (News - Alert): UnitedHealthcare). The new bundled payment program for maternity care has launched with two health care providers, Lifeline Medical Associates in New Jersey and Privia Medical Group - Gulf Coast in Texas, to help encourage more coordinated care and better health outcomes for expectant mothers enrolled in UnitedHealthcare employer-sponsored health plans. By year-end 2019, UnitedHealthcare will expand the bundled payment program to as many as 20 care provider groups, including ones affiliated with the U.S. Women's Health Alliance, a national organization of leading health care practices. The payment model builds on the UnitedHealthcare Maternity program*, which has helped women by contributing to fewer non-medically indicated cesarean (C-section) deliveries, reduced both pre-delivery hospital admissions and the average length of stay in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), and decreased other delivery and newborn-related costs.2 The C-section rate for low-risk pregnancies among women enrolled in UnitedHealthcare's employer-sponsored health plans in 2018 was 18 percent,1 lower than the 23.9 percent target set by the federal government.3 Approximately one-third of babies nationwide are born via C-section, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Studies have shown that early, non-medically indicated C-sections are linked to a higher risk of complications, including infection, hemorrhage or blood clots, and admission to the NICU.4 For a first-hand account of how UnitedHealthcare's maternity resources helped support a healthy, full-term delivery for a new mom, click here. "These resources can help improve access to quality, coordinate care, offering important support to women and families before, during and after delivery," said Janice Huckaby, M.D., who leads UnitedHealthcare's women's health initiatives as a senior vice present and regional chief medical officer. "Value-based care programs such as this help improve clinical quality, patient safety and satisfaction, and care coordination among physicians, with the goal of reducing costs." The bundled payment method reimburses a care provider or hospital for a defined episode of care (EOC), such as prenatal, delivery and postpartum services, under a single fee or payment. This is a shift away from the common fee-for-service structure in which a care provider is paid for each treatment, appointment or test, generating multiple claims within a single, broader episode of care. Bundled payment methods reward care providers for value over volume, helping align incentives and linking reimbursement to the delivery of coordinated, efficient care. "The collaboration to develop and launch this maternity episode of care program marks an important next step in our journey to improve the quality and affordability of care for women across America," said Jack Feltz, M.D, president of the U.S. Women's Health Alliance. "This transformative program helps give care providers the necessary resources to make a difference in improving quality while decreasing costs." The UnitedHealthcare Healthy Pregnancy mobile app** and Maternity program provide expectant women with personalized content and 24/7 nurse support. Nurses can coordinate care, help with the management of chronic conditions, and connect pregnant women with behavioral health care teams for emotional and mental health support. These resources are provided in collaboration with Optum, UnitedHealth Group's health services business. Eligible people can download the app onto their iPhone and Android (News - Alert) devices, enabling expectant parents to: connect with a registered nurse 24/7 for support and information; monitor and track weight, set reminders to take vitamins and track appointments; take a health assessment and discuss the results with a nurse; receive customized weekly updates based on the baby's gestational age; search for information about pregnancy symptoms and concerns; use a "kick counter" to track the baby's movements; and access health care cost estimates and plan benefit information. Employers can offer these resources to their employees at no additional cost as part of their benefit plan.** The maternity care bundled payment program is part of UnitedHealthcare's ongoing commitment to value-based care. By the end of 2020, the company expects to have $75 billion in care provider reimbursements tied to value-based arrangements annually, which support the health of UnitedHealthcare plan participants at no additional charge. "Bringing together industry stakeholders with the collective vision to work together to improve care quality and affordability will be crucial for modernizing the nation's health care system," said Mark Cone, M.D., FACOG, market president, Privia Medical Group - Gulf Coast. "On behalf of our doctors at Privia Medical Group, we are excited to be a part of this collaborative effort." About UnitedHealthcare UnitedHealthcare is dedicated to helping people live healthier lives and making the health system work better for everyone by simplifying the health care experience, meeting consumer health and wellness needs, and sustaining trusted relationships with care providers. In the United States, UnitedHealthcare offers the full spectrum of health benefit programs for individuals, employers, and Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries, and contracts directly with more than 1.2 million physicians and care professionals, and 6,500 hospitals and other care facilities nationwide. The company also provides health benefits and delivers care to people through owned and operated health care facilities in South America. UnitedHealthcare is one of the businesses of UnitedHealth Group (NYSE: UNH), a diversified health care company. For more information, visit UnitedHealthcare at www.uhc.com or follow @UHC on Twitter (News - Alert). All trademarks are property of their respective owners. *The information provided under this program is for general informational purposes only and is not intended to be nor should be construed as medical and/or nutritional advice. Participants should consult an appropriate health care professional to determine what may be right for them. Employers are responsible for ensuring that any wellness programs they offer to their employees comply with applicable state and/or federal law, including, but not limited to, GINA, ADA and HIPAA wellness regulations, which in many circumstances contain maximum incentive threshold limits for all wellness programs combined that are generally limited to 30 percent of the cost of self-only coverage of the lowest-cost plan and prohibitions on incentives to dependent children, as well as obligations for employers to provide certain notices to their employees. Employers should discuss these issues with their own legal counsel. **The UnitedHealthcare Healthy Pregnancy application is available only to eligible participants enrolled in certain employer-sponsored plans. Application registration is required. 1UnitedHealthcare Economics Women's Health Outcomes Analysis, 2018 2Optum Healthcare Economics Maternity Program Analytics Study, 2018 3 Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion https://www.healthypeople.gov/2020/topics-objectives/topic/maternal-infant-and-child-health/objectives 4 The Journal of Maternal-Fetal & Neonatal Medicine, 2016 https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.3109/14767058.2015.1023187?src=recsys&journalCode=ijmf20 Click here to subscribe to Mobile Alerts for UnitedHealth Group. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190509005149/en/ [ Back To www.mobilitytechzone.com\LTE's Homepage ] BEIJING, May 9 (Xinhua) -- The U.S. House of Representatives on Tuesday passed the "Taiwan Assurance Act of 2019" that reaffirms "the United States commitment to Taiwan and to the implementation of the Taiwan Relations Act," which raised concern in the international community. It is widely considered that the U.S. move interferes in China's internal affairs and would damage China-U.S. relations and regional peace. "The UN (United Nations) continues to support a one-China policy in accordance with the relevant resolutions, including the 1971 resolution of the General Assembly," Farhan Haq, deputy spokesman for UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, told Xinhua. Former Deputy Director of the editorial office for Asia at the Voice of Russia radio station Alexander Zelenkov warned that the U.S. actions can cause "irreparable damage" to China-U.S. relations and very seriously complicate the situation in Southeast Asia. Zelenkov also said that the problem of Taiwan directly affects the sovereignty of China and concessions in this area for China are impossible. Elvis Ngolle Ngolle, professor of international relations at the University of Yaounde 1 in Cameroon and a former minister, noted that the proposed legislation questions the United States' credibility on the international scene as it had agreed with China on the one-China principle. "By this act, the United States is breaking its promise and sincerity," he said. The recent move by the United States is "a continuation of the wrong U.S. policies under (U.S. President Donald) Trump in dealing with its ties with China," said Samy Al-Qamhawi, a specialist in Chinese affairs at the Egyptian newspaper Ahram. "The Taiwan Assurance Act of 2019 violates and harms the one-China principle and destroys the unity that China has adopted," he added. "The United States only exploits Taiwan to put more pressure on China." Eduardo Regalado, a researcher at Cuba's Center for International Policy, said that the United States is trying to make a stronger containment exercise towards China with the delicate Taiwan issue, deeply hurting the feelings of the Chinese people. "The United States is approaching a very dangerous edge," said Regalado. "They are getting into a very sensitive issue because China will never negotiate a millimeter with respect to Taiwan and much less under pressure." By By: Dr. Francis R. Souder, 85, formerly of Telford, died Wednesday, Oct. 17, 2007 in the skilled nursing unit of Peter Becker Community, Franconia Township. He and his wife Marion R. (Parker) Souder celebrated their 62nd wedding anniversary in July. Born in Souderton, he was a son of the late Elvin B. and Mary (Rittenhouse) Souder. A 1938 graduate of Souderton High School, he received his undergraduate degree in 1941 from the University of Pennsylvania where he was a member of the Phi Beta Kappa. Dr. Souder went on to receive his medical degree from Hahnemann Medical College in 1944 and completed his internship at Hahnemann Hospital from Oct. 1944 July, 1945. He served with the U.S. Navy Medical Corps for 30 months in San Diego and Long Beach, Calif. during WW II and was promoted to the rank of lieutenant prior to his discharge. He entered his second tour of duty during the Korean War where he served in Panama City, Fla. as the medical officer for the Panama City Naval Air Station and the Tyndal Air Force Base. Dr. Souder owned and operated his family practice on Main Street in Telford from 1947-1989. He served on the staff of Grand View Hospital, and as its president, and taught at the Grand View Hospital Nursing School. He was a member of the Pa. Medical Society, the Bucks County Medical Society, Diplomat American Academy of Family Practices, and served on the board of trustees at Grand View Hospital, Sellersville. He was a member of Trinity United Church of Christ in Telford, where he sang in the church choir. He was also a member of the MacCalla Lodge #596 in Souderton, the Raja Shrine, and Lehigh Consistory. In addition to his widow, he is survived by a son, Dr. Ronald L. Souder, and his wife Susan L. of Green Lane; a daughter, Susan J. Souder, and her husband Stephan Russo of New York, N.Y.; five grandchildren: Jennifer A. Souder of Philadelphia; Emily E. Souder of Philadelphia; Kathryn A. Souder of Washington, D.C.; Noah Russo of New York, N.Y., and Rebekah Russo of New York, N.Y., and two brothers: Attorney Elvin B. Souder of Souderton and Dr. Lawrence Souder of Souderton. Memorial services will be held on Saturday, Nov. 10 at 12 p.m. in Trinity United Church of Christ, 101 S. Main St., Telford, with calling hours following the service. Interment will be private in Trinity UCC Cemetery Telford. Memorial contributions may be made to Grand View Hospital, 700 Lawn Ave., Sellersville, Pa. 18960. Arrangements are by Sadler-Suess Funeral Home, Telford. Welcome to Morningstar.co.uk! You have been redirected here from Hemscott.com as we are merging our websites to provide you with a one-stop shop for all your investment research needs.To search for a security, type the name or ticker in the search box at the top of the page and select from the dropdown results.Registered Hemscott users can log in to Morningstar using the same login details. Similarly, if you are a Hemscott Premium user, you now have a Morningstar Premium account which you can access using the same login details. First thing in the morning, it looked like we had a chance to see another trade-war-driven bond rally. A Reuters story that detailed the US/China communication breakdown hit the market around 4:30am, causing both stocks and bond yields to move quickly lower. But by 7am, investors signaled they'd had enough. There's only so much markets are willing to brace for when the worst case scenario is something that will play out in gradual fashion. In other words, the worst case scenario is a gradual knock to global economic growth due to trade barriers as opposed to something like a change in central bank policy that has an immediate impact and a quantifiable implication for future cash flows. Markets are thus better-served to react to such things gradually. The best case scenario, however, is the opposite. A trade deal carries significant negative consequences for bonds, so it's not too surprising to see them balk when headlines make a deal seem slightly more likely. Bonds were back in barely-weaker territory ahead of the 10yr Treasury auction. The auction itself was terrible--one of the worst in years. It's actually a pleasant surprise that yields only rose by about 2bps following this one. But they did so all at once. As expected, MBS fared better than Treasuries in the face of a sell-off, but were nonetheless forced into weaker territory. Many lenders issued negative reprices. Those who didn't will be under increased pressure to adjust rate sheets tomorrow morning, unless we see a very friendly bounce overnight. The CPTPP will create a good chance for Vietnamese shrimp exporters to capitalise on the Canadian market, even though the Southeast Asian nation is already the top shrimp supplier there. Aquatic exports brought home 2.4 billion USD in the first four months of 2019, equivalent to the figure during the same period last year. That included 1.8 billion USD between January and March, and the shrimp sector contributed 617.6 million USD to this sum, down 20 percent year on year. Boosting the shipment of shrimp products to potential markets like Canada is critical to help achieve the goal of 4.2 billion USD in aquatic exports this year, and making use of preferential treatments under the CPTPP (Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership) is an important measure, according to the Thoi bao Kinh te Viet Nam (Vietnam Economic Times). As of March 15, Vietnam had shipped 23.8 million USD worth of shrimp products to Canada, up 7.5 percent from a year earlier. The revenue has increased in recent years, from 122.5 million USD in 2016 to 161.6 million USD last year. Canada is currently the sixth biggest market for Vietnamese shrimp, accounting for almost 5 percent of total shrimp exports. Data of the International Trade Centre show that shrimp imports by the North American country reached 513.3 million USD in 2018, down 5 percent from the previous year. Meanwhile, Vietnam is the biggest shrimp provider for this market with a market share of 30.3 percent. The Canadian government is diversifying markets to reduce the dependence on imports from the US, and Vietnam is one of the countries Canadian businesses want to boost trade with. The Vietnam Association of Seafood Exporters and Producers said the CPTPP, taking effect in Vietnam on January 14, will create good opportunities for the countrys shrimp exporters to make use of the Canadian market as rivals like India, Thailand and Indonesia are not members of this deal. Echoing this view, the Ministry of Industry and Trade noted Canada is one of the CPTPP members with the highest market-opening commitments. It will cut tariffs on 95 percent of imports down to zero, and that covers 78 percent of Vietnams total exports to this market. In addition, Canada is also one of the three CPTPP members that Vietnam lacks a bilateral trade agreement with. The two sides export structures do not compete but are complementary. Therefore, if businesses can grab opportunities, the CPTPP will open the door for many key products of Vietnam like textile-garment, footwear, wood and aquatic products, according to the ministry.-VNA The first school-by-school assessments of child immunization rates to be released by Connecticut show scores of schools with kindergarten immunization rates below the 95-percent threshold that the Centers for Disease Control say is necessary to provide herd immunity for a community. The data sets posted Friday by the Department of Public Health reverses agency policy against publication, which was being challenged in a freedom-of-information complaint filed by state Rep. Josh Elliott, D-Hamden, and it comes amid a national measles outbreak and a legislative debate over whether to end the religious exemptions to vaccinations otherwise mandated. The overall immunization rates of Connecticut school children is more than 98 percent, but the newly released data show some schools with high rates of unvaccinated children, some exempted for either medical or religious reasons and others unexplained. More than three dozen schools reported more than five percent of their students claimed exemptions, while the DPH identified nearly 100 schools where less than 95 percent of kindergarten students were vaccinated for measles, mumps and rubella. You have some schools where we saw medical exemptions as high as 20 percent and that statistically seems difficult to understand, said House Majority Leader Matt Ritter, D-Hartford, who is married to a physician. We have pockets as bad as California was at the height of their outbreaks. So you have to take this sobering news and think about what you do next. Locally, John Lyman School in Middlefield was the only public school to follow below the 95-percent threshold for vaccinations schoolwide. Herritage Baptist Academy in Wallingford, 93.5 percent, and Meloira Academy in Meriden, 81.5 percent, also fell below the threshold. When narrowed down to just the 2017-18 kindergarten class, the most recently available, John Lyman School, at 94.3 percent, and Hatton Elementary School in Southington, 93.4 percent, fellow below the threshold for herd immunity. Rates were not disclosed for data sets with fewer than 30 students. At the Six-Six Magnet School in Bridgeport, 15 percent of the entering kindergarten students claimed a religious exemption, as did 12.5 percent at Ryerson Elementary in Madison. At the public Glenville School in Greenwich, 11.8 percent were unvaccinated, mostly claiming medical exemptions. The data has its inconsistencies: In some cases schools reported a low compliance rate, but no claims for religious or medical exemptions. For example, the Achievement First Hartford Academy reported that only 69.3 percent of its kindergarten students had received the MMR shot for measles, mumps and rubella, but no exemptions. This data is startling and needs to be addressed, Gov. Ned Lamont said in a statement. This cannot become a public health crisis as we have seen in other states. Making sure all of our young students in Connecticut are safe is the number one priority. Religious exemptions to vaccinations for students entering kindergarten remain relatively rare, but they have nearly quadrupled since the 2003-2004 school year, from 316 to 1,255. At Greenwich Catholic School, 7.3 percent of the students had religious exemptions allowing them to enter school without vaccinations for measles, mumps, rubella and other infectious diseases. The Catholic Church has no religious strictures against vaccination, as is the case every major religious denomination in the U.S. The release comes as the United States is experiencing the worst outbreak of measles since it was eliminated in 2000. Almost 700 cases of measles have been confirmed in 22 states, including three in Connecticut. Renee D. Coleman-Mitchell, the newly appointed public-health commissioner, announced earlier this week in a letter to school superintendents that the department would be posting the school-level detailed information to raise public awareness of immunization rates in local communities. In the letter, she said that more awareness may lead to increased engagement and focus on increasing immunization rates to reduce the risk of vaccine-preventable diseases. Todays data from the state Department of Public Health bears out what many of us feared, said Senate President Pro Tem Martin M. Looney, D-New Haven. The immunization level is dangerously low in a significant number of schools and communities putting the publics health at risk. This is a matter of grave public health concern. Ritter, the House leader, said he and his staff were trying to digest the data, which he says must be reviewed with public-health and education officials. But there is no question the number is shocking, Ritter said. Rep. Vincent Candelora, R-North Branford, cautioned against an overreaction. There have been only three reported measles cases in Connecticut, and he has yet to see a rationale for the state to overrule parents who object to some or all childhood vaccinations. Despite a widespread medical consensus about the safety and efficacy of vaccines, some parents question their need or their safety. Its about balancing the public health with the individual right to choose, Candelora said. As Coleman-Mitchell explained in her letter to superintendents, a disease outbreak is less likely to occur in schools where high numbers of students have been immunized and herd immunity is established. [W]hen almost all the children have immunity, a disease is much less likely to appear at the school and infect children who have not been vaccinated, she said in the letter. Herd immunity is achieved when the vaccination rate in a community is high enough to protect unvaccinated children. She said that this is especially important for medically fragile children who cannot be safely vaccinated but are less able to fight off illness if they are infected. Consequently, this information bears special importance to the parents or guardians of such children, who may wish to access information about their childs school vaccination rates for their childs protection. Parents are now able to exempt their children from the vaccination requirement for medical or religious reasons. In addition, students with proof of immunity to certain diseases such as measles or mumps may be counted as vaccinated. The data show that many of the schools with high rates of unvaccinated students are Christian academies and Montessori schools. Ritter and Rep. Liz Linehan, D-Cheshire, the co-chair of the legislatures Committee on Children, were non-committal about pursuing legislation before the session ends on June. 5. Its certainly not something that we can decide overnight, so I look forward to a continuing conversation, Linehan said. If we did decide to go ahead and eliminate the religious exemption, some of these schools would be hitting the herd immunity rate. We need to continue to look at that. Thats an important point. This story originally appeared on the website of The Connecticut Mirror, www.ctmirror.org. Schools with vaccine rates at or below 96 percent (herd immununity is 95 percent) School Town Vaccine rate Emma Hart Willard School Berlin 95.5 percent John Lyman School Middlefield 94 percent Heritage Baptist Academy Wallingford 93.5 percent Meloira Academy Meriden 81.5 percent ALTA at Pyne Center Southington 95.7 percent Kindergarten classes with vaccine rates at or below 96 percent (herd immununity is 95 percent) School Town Vaccine rate John Lyman School Middlefield 94.3 percent Hatton Elementary School Southington 93.4 percent Evans C. Stevens School Wallingford 95.7 percent Highland School Wallingford 96 percent All figures for the 2017-18 school year. Source: Department of Public Health OKAY Industries Inc., with operations in New Britain and Berlin, has named a new director of manufacturing. Steven Kmiec of Coventry will oversee the daily manufacturing operations at OKAY Industries domestic facilities in New Britain and Berlin and will also support production at the companys Costa Rica facility. OKAY engineers components and subassemblies in the medical device and industrial markets. Since joining our team, Steve has demonstrated his expert knowledge every day, said Jason Howey, President of OKAY Industries. He addresses challenges with innovation, insight and efficiency, and consistently displays his ability to lead by example. Kmiec, 60, has more than 30 years experience in product application and development engineering, according to a statement announcing the promotion. Most recently he was a senior manufacturing engineer with OKAY Industries. Two World War II veterans will be co-marshals of Cheshires annual Memorial Day Parade this year. They are Ralph Rowland and Irvin Daubert, both 98. They are long-time Cheshire residents. According to John White, a spokesman for the Cheshire Veterans Council, the parade is honoring the D-Day Invasion of Normandy, which occurred 75 years ago on June 6, 1944, along the French coast. Ralph Rowland served in the Pacific as a Seabee during World War II, becoming a Chief Petty Officer. The Seabees got their nickname by putting together the first letters of their formal name, Construction Battalion or CB. Ralph was stationed at various locations in and around New Guinea/Papua. His battalion, the 78th, built airfields and advanced base facilities on New Guinea, the Admiralty Islands and Okinawa. He was awarded three battle stars on the Asiatic-Pacific Medal. After the war Ralph became an architect and worked for 50 years in that profession, living in Cheshire the whole time. He is a life member of the Cheshires VFW Post 10052 and the Navy Seabee Veterans of America, and is a past president of the 78th Seabees Association. Irvin Daubert is a former Army Air Corps sergeant and a World War I veteran. He flew in a B-24 Liberator bomber crew out of Flexton, England into France and Germany. He was a staff sergeant and armorer/gunner. He had to ensure the armament in the plane was working properly at takeoff. Daubert made 35 missions into enemy territory from January 1943 to until wars end. A typical mission lasted about eight hours and was flown at 35,000 feet. Temperatures at that altitude are 40 to 60 degrees below zero. The plane had no heater; the only warmth Daubert and his crew members got was from heavy clothing and gloves. Miraculously, Daubert says, no one in his crew was injured during those 35 missions, although there were close callsone close enough that it left a piece of flak in Dauberts book. He still has the piece for good luck. Daubert mustered out in October 1945. His military record shows he earned six medals, including the Distinguished Flying Cross. The award ranks between the Bronze Star and the Silver Star, which are given to individuals for heroism in combat. The DFC is a group award given to Dauberts plane crew for heroism or extraordinary achievement while participating in an aerial flight. In addition, he received five other military decorations and the Connecticut Veterans Wartime Service Award. He is a member of Cheshires VFW Post 10052. MERIDEN The fire marshal is waiting for test results on samples sent to the state police laboratory as the investigation into a fire at an apartment building on East Main Street continues. The building at 258 E. Main St. was declared a total loss after the May 3 fire. There were no reported injuries. Five people were displaced from the three apartments. Fire Marshal Steve Trella and police are conducting the investigation into the cause of the fire. State police responded on the day of the fire and took samples from the scene. The buildings roof had multiple layers, making it hard to extinguish, said Fire Chief Ken Morgan. Lauren Sellew MERIDEN The teenage victim of a February shooting on North Colony Road was shot at least three times and suffered injuries to his liver, kidney and spine, according to an arrest affidavit released Wednesday. Details of the shooting became public for the first time after charges against Pedro Montalvo, 16, of 882 N. Colony Road, were transferred to adult court Wednesday. He is charged with first-degree assault, stealing a firearm, illegal discharge of a firearm, first-degree reckless endangerment, and violation of pistol permit requirements. Police received two calls shortly after 11 p.m. on Feb. 22 reporting the incident. Officers found what looked to be blood on the ground leading to a group of buildings at 882 N. Colony Rd. and eight 9-millimeter bullet casings. While on scene, police were notified that Pierre Langlois, 18, arrived at MidState Medical Center with multiple gunshot wounds, the warrant said. It was unclear who took Langlois to MidState. He was later taken by LifeStar helicopter to Hartford Hospital. Around the same time Montalvos mother went to the police station to report that her son had shot Langlois. The woman told police she and Montalvo picked up a girl he received Facebook messages from earlier in the day and they all went back to her home, the warrant said. The mother said Montalvo told her the girl used to date Langlois, and she added Montalvo was having problems with Langlois from a previous incident, the warrant said. The mother told police Langlois previously shot Montalvo in the head with a BB gun, the warrant said. Police could not be reached for comment Wednesday to comment whether they are investigating that allegation. The mother said Montalvo and the girl went outside, at which time she also saw a car pull up. She told police she saw four or five people get out of the car wearing black masks, and that she saw her son in the parking lot but not the girl, the warrant said. She heard gunshots as she walked away from the window and looked out to see a man lying on the ground and her son running inside. Montalvo handed her a gun, which belonged to her, the warrant said. The woman said Montalvo told her he just shot that boy, the warrant said. The woman told police she keeps the gun locked in a safe and believes Montalvo got the keys while she was in the shower, the warrant said. Montalvos attorney told police he wouldnt come to the station for an interview, while Langlois said he had no recollection of the incident, the warrant said. Medical records showed Langlois had a gunshot wound to his chest, which tracked from the right chest area through the liver to the left kidney, and that a bullet or fragments hit two vertebrae and ricocheted back into the abdomen, according to the warrant. Langlois also had two bullet wounds near his right wrist and two bullet wounds near his right elbow, the warrant said. Meriden police did not release information about the shooting until four days after the incident. Mayor Kevin Scarpati said in February that the release of information was not handled in a timely fashion. lsellew@record-journal.com 203-317-2225 Twitter: @LaurenSellewRJ SOUTHINGTON State data released on vaccination rates among kindergartners shows one local school falls below 95 percent, a threshold deemed crucial by public health officials, and a second school just above the mark. Proponents of legislation to remove school nurses, town clerks and others from a list of authorized witnesses for religious exemptions to vaccines say the data demonstrates the need for the bill. According to the 2017-18 school year data released Friday by the Department of Public Health, only 93.4 percent of kindergartners at Hatton School were vaccinated for a range of viruses, including measles, polio, hepatitis A and B, and other communicable diseases. The 2017-18 data is the latest available. The kindergarten class at Derynoski School had a vaccination rate of 95.3 percent. Public health officials say that maintaining immunization rates of 95 percent or higher is crucial in protecting even those not immunized and eradicating diseases, known as herd immunity. All other schools were above 97 percent while information for Southington Catholic and Central Christian Academy wasn't available because DPH didnt disclose data for subsets with fewer than 30 students. DPH is expected to release revised data this Friday. Shane Lockwood, director of the Plainville-Southington Health Department, said declining vaccination rates are a concern, but hed be more alarmed by a vaccination rate for an entire community, not just select classes, falling below 95 percent. Until that community as a whole starts to have big drops, thats when it starts to have a bigger impact, Lockwood said. Lockwood said herd immunity is vital for those who cant get vaccinated for medical reasons, and that vaccines were a major achievement for public health. School Superintendent Tim Connellan said the district tracks vaccination rates but has no control over which students are granted exemptions. Officials in New York have declared public health emergencies because of measles outbreaks. Measles have not been a problem in any school in Southington in the past five years with the exception of last year and the one confirmed case was an adult not a student, Connellan said. The measles case was at Derynoski School. Children are required to have all vaccinations before enrolling in public school unless parents receive a religious or medical exemption. Some state lawmakers are looking to change the process for religious exemptions. Town clerks, school nurses, attorneys and justices of the peace are among those who can witness a religious exemption form. General Assembly Democrats introduced a bill this year that would allow people to decline to sign the exemption form. Rep. Liz Linehan, D-Cheshire, said the bill, HB 7005, was requested by school nurses. Chlo-Anne Bobrowski, president of the Association of School Nurses of Connecticut, said school nurses were added to the witness list several years ago by the General Assembly but that theyd rather be taken out of the loop. Were kind of the upholders of the state law for mandated immunization. (Exemptions) are kind of going against all of what we do, she said. We dont want to be part of a group thatll cosign with a parent. Bobrowski said the increasing rates of non-vaccination have consequences such as measles outbreaks throughout the country. She also questioned the religious nature of the exemptions, saying the objection to vaccines was more philosophically based. No one has ever seen a rabbi or a priest come forward and say, It is against our religion, Bobrowski said. A host of parents attended a public hearing on the bill earlier this year, saying it violated parental and religious rights as well as the privacy of their families. Pricilla Castro, a Southington resident, was among those who testified against the bill. I do not need anyone to certify that Im a religious person that is a private matter. My family and I wish for that to remain private, she wrote in her testimony. A school nurse actually plays a very important role at my childs school. I can provided them with my statements without any fear of backlash. School nurses lets me exercise my parental rights and religious freedom without any bias opposition. Board of Education Chairman Brian Goralski said the health of students is paramount, but that he didnt like gray areas in the proposed law. I do not want the responsibility put on our school nurses, he said. I want (the General Assembly) to make the rules, then we will follow them. Linehan said the bill may be rendered moot by an elimination of the religious exemption altogether, a move she supports. Language for such a bill has not yet been drafted, but House Majority Leader Matt Ritter, D-Hartford, has said he wants a vote by 2020. Now is the time to do this before we find a health emergency on our hands and we lose children, Linehan said. jbuchanan@record-journal.com 203-317-2230 Twitter: @JBuchananRJ At one time, not so long ago, most children in this country would get measles by the time they were 15. Some 400 to 500 would die each year, and another 1,000 would come down with encephalitis (swelling of the brain). That was before 1963, when a safe and effective vaccine became available. By 2000, after a concerted vaccination campaign, the disease was declared eliminated from the United States. It would be terrible to see us return to those days, but now only 19 years later we are seeing the worst outbreak of measles in a generation, with more than 700 cases reported nationally since January. There has been a notable outbreak in the Pacific Northwest, in an area where the rate of nonmedical exemptions to the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine is high. All 50 states allow for medical exemptions to the vaccination of children, and almost all of them also have a process to grant exemption for the religious or philosophical beliefs of the parents. If those were the only exceptions to the rule, the percentage of unvaccinated children would be very low. Increasingly, though, it seems that parents are opting their children out of getting vaccinated because of an unfounded and scientifically disproved idea that the MMR vaccine somehow causes autism. Heres what the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have to say about that: Vaccines do not cause autism. There is no link between vaccines and autism. Vaccine ingredients do not cause autism. Period. No ifs, ands or buts. And yet, the internet is alive with sites claiming that vaccines somehow cause autism and other problems an idea promoted, most famously, by Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Three members of the Kennedy family are so concerned about this that they just issued a statement. He has helped to spread dangerous misinformation over social media and is complicit in sowing distrust of the science behind vaccines, they wrote, with heartbreaking consequences. While a belief in such junk science appears to be the greater threat to public health at this time, the high rate of measles infections among children across the country this year, including in Connecticut, has led a number of states to consider eliminating the religious exemption to the MMR vaccine. California, Mississippi and West Virginia have already done so. Here in Connecticut, a number of lawmakers would like to follow suit, and Attorney General William Tong has already issued an opinion that that would not violate the state constitution. At this time there is no bill before the General Assembly that would eliminate the religious or philosophical exemption, although there are proposals to change the process. But data released recently by the state Department of Public Health may provide impetus for such a move. The data show that nearly 100 schools have kindergarten immunization rates below the 95 percent threshold recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to provide herd immunity for the student body and the community in general. Those include, as recently reported, Hatton School, in Southington, where only 93.4 percent of kindergartners were vaccinated for a range of viruses, according to 2017-18 data. Although many of those are small, private schools, and some of the paperwork is unclear, This data is startling and needs to be addressed, Gov. Ned Lamont said in a statement. Those who need the protection of herd immunity include infants, and others who cannot be immunized for specific medical reasons. No state has removed that type of exemption. Connecticuts overall immunization rate is good around 98 percent and the state needs to respect the religious beliefs of parents while also finding ways to improve the immunization rate for MMR in the schools where it is inadequate. It seems to us that education, not legislation, is whats needed here. Once enough parents understand the need for immunization against certain diseases and realize that the vaccines are safe surely they will do the right thing. 1. Patek Philippe Ref. 5520P Alarm Travel Time Granted, the Patek Philippes Grandmaster Chime 6300G in white gold presented at the 2019 BaselWorld watch fair is the most complicated wristwatch in the brands current collection, what with its 20 complications. However, this is a model extension of the Ref. 5175 Grandmaster Chime in rose gold that made its debut in 2014 to commemorate the brands 175th anniversary (1839 to 2014). The Ref. 5520P Alarm Travel Time therefore deserves a little more attention as it is a new grand complication for Patek Philippe that required five years of development time. While it features the chiming system, it isnt a repeater. It is an alarm mechanism that chimes along the same principles as a repeater because it utilises a hammer that strikes the gong. The alarm rings for 35 seconds and the chimes are similar to that of a minute repeater, says Dirk Paulsen, director, C. Melchers GmbH who takes charge of Patek Philippes affairs in the region including China. The alarm strikes at the rate of 2.5 Hertz. We adopted the striking system of minute repeaters. The hammer strikes the gong that is attached to the caseband and the cadence is controlled by a centrifugal governor just as in minute repeaters, explains Philip Barat, head of watch development at Patek Philippe. Ref. 5520P Alarm Travel Time Patek Philippe Alarm mechanisms arent a new complication for Patek Philippe. For example, the alarm has been incorporated into its famed Calibre 89 pocket watch and the Grandmaster Chime wristwatch. However, this is the first time the alarm function is the key complication for Patek Philippe alongside another useful complication, the second time zone. The Calibre AL 30-660 S C FUS is new. It is a new self-winding base movement for the alarm and two time zones, highlights Barat adding that the travel time mechanism is the same used for the Ref. 5524 Calatrava Pilot Travel Time. The alarm setting display is in digital format and this is the first water-resistant watch with the striking mechanism for Patek Philippe. 2. Bulgari Octo Finissimo Chronograph GMT Automatic In terms of complications, the Octo Finissimo Chronograph GMT Automatic pales in comparison to the Octo Roma Grande Sonnerie Perpetual Calendar, said to be the most complicated watch Bulgari has ever made. Both timepieces were part of the brands 2019 line-up. However, the Octo Finissimo Chronograph GMT Automatic has allowed Bulgari to stake its claim of having the worlds slimmest mechanical chronograph thanks to its 3.3mm ultra-thin case. It is not only a chronograph; it is the thinnest ever mechanical chronograph in watchmaking history. The self-winding movement is about 40% thinner than any chronograph ever designed in the Swiss watchmaking industry, declares Bulgaris CEO Jean-Christophe Babin. Octo Finissimo Chronograph GMT Automatic Bulgari This marks the fifth world record in the ultra-thin segment for Bulgari over the past six years. It began with the worlds slimmest tourbillon in 2014, followed by the thinnest minute repeater (2016), the slimmest automatic movement (2017) and the thinnest automatic tourbillon (2018). Local time is indicated by the central hour and minute hands with the continuous sweep seconds on the 9 oclock sub-dial. The Octo Finissimo Chronograph GMT has a central chronograph seconds hand and its 30-minute chronograph counter is at 6 oclock. Home time is indicated on the sub-dial at 3 oclock where the hours are easily set by the pusher at 9 oclock. This is a 24-hour sub-dial which means one can easily tell whether it is day or night for home time. Technically speaking, the home time display can also be used as a 24-hour chronograph counter. 3. Zenith Defy Inventor It was a toss-up between the Zenith El Primero 21 Carbon equipped with the 1/100th of a second chronograph operating at the high frequency 50 Hertz or 360,000 vibrations per hour and the Defy Inventor. After intense deliberations, the three-hand Defy Inventor emerged as the chosen one. Why? Zeniths Defy Inventor is proof of concept for the Defy Lab that was presented in late 2017. The result of three years of research and development, the Defy Lab featured a ground-breaking innovation a single component high-frequency oscillator made of monocrystalline silicon that replaces the need for the 30 or so components typically used in standard regulating organs. Defy Inventor Zenith Touted as the worlds most accurate mechanical watch, only 10 pieces of the Zenith Defy Lab were offered. When asked why back then, Guy Semon, CEO of what was then LVMH Science Institute (now the TAG Heuer Institute), explained that this was the launch version and he has clearly made good on the promise that more offerings evolving from the Defy Lab will not only be launched but will be non-limited. The Defy Inventor marks the commercial beginnings of Zeniths high-frequency oscillator on an industrial scale. While the Defy Lab beats at the frequency of 15 Hertz, the good folks at Zenith have further tweaked and fine-tuned the regulating organ as the Defy Inventor beats at 18 Hertz. The Defy Inventor and its movement, the Calibre 9100 automatic movement, is triple certified for magnetic insensitivity, thermal insensitivity and chronometric precision. There is no comparison with existing systems in mechanical watchmaking and reliability, says Semon. One look at the pulsating dial and it is easy to understand why the Defy Inventor is extraordinary and special. The Defy Lab finally gave birth to the Defy Inventor. It has introduced new levels of precision and technologies for us [Zenith] and even the watch industry, highlights Julien Tornare, CEO of Zenith. Berlin Reporter Former prison chaplain pleads guilty to accepting bribes for contraband CONCORD Joseph Buenviaje, 53, of Berlin, has pleaded guilty in federal court to accepting bribes from inmates and providing contraband in prison, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today. According to court documents and statements made in court, in 2015 Buenviaje began working as a chaplain at the Federal Correctional Institution in Berlin. Beginning April 2018 through November 2018, while working as a chaplain, Buenviaje smuggled drugs, including Suboxone, synthetic cannabinoids, and marijuana, cellular telephones, tobacco, and other contraband into the prison in exchange for bribe payments. When interviewed by investigators in November 2018, Buenviaje admitted that he had been smuggling drugs and other contraband into the prison once or twice per week, he had received bribes of at least $12,000, and inmates owed him an additional $3,000 to $5,000 for contraband he had or was going to provide. Buenviaje also admitted that he received the contraband and some of the bribe payments by mail addressed to his ministry. Buenviaje received Suboxonean opioid ordinarily prescribed to treat drug addictionin its original packaging. Upon receipt, Buenviaje repackaged the drug in cellophane for distribution in the prison. Buenviaje also received notebooks with drug-soaked pages that he smuggled into the prison. After smuggling items he received into the prison, Buenviaje placed the contraband in a cabinet in the prison chapel where inmates would later retrieve the items. In November 2018, during a consensual search of Buenviaje's car and office, investigators found 111 Suboxone strips, some of which were in Buenviaje's car and some of which were in Buenviaje's office repackaged for distribution. Investigators also located multiple notebooks that Buenviaje had placed in a cabinet in his office for an inmate. Some pages in the notebooks had been soaked with unlawful synthetic cannabinoids, specifically FUB-AMB and 5F-ADB. Buenviaje is scheduled to be sentenced on Aug. 1. "Those who work in federal prisons have a responsibility to uphold the law," said U.S. Attorney Murray. "By smuggling contraband into a prison, this defendant jeopardized the safety of the inmates and staff at the facility. Such conduct simply cannot be tolerated." "Today's guilty plea demonstrates that anyone who violates the public's trust and jeopardizes the security of federal prisons by introducing contraband will be brought to justice. We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to root out smuggling schemes in federal prisons," said DOJ OIG Special Agent-in-Charge Guido Modano. This matter was investigated by the U.S. Department of Justice Office of the Inspector General and FCI-Berlin's Office of the Special Investigative Supervisor. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Anna Z. Krasinski and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew T. Hunter. CONCORD Joseph Buenviaje, 53, of Berlin, has pleaded guilty in federal court to accepting bribes from inmates and providing contraband in prison, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.According to court documents and statements made in court, in 2015 Buenviaje began working as a chaplain at the Federal Correctional Institution in Berlin. Beginning April 2018 through November 2018, while working as a chaplain, Buenviaje smuggled drugs, including Suboxone, synthetic cannabinoids, and marijuana, cellular telephones, tobacco, and other contraband into the prison in exchange for bribe payments. When interviewed by investigators in November 2018, Buenviaje admitted that he had been smuggling drugs and other contraband into the prison once or twice per week, he had received bribes of at least $12,000, and inmates owed him an additional $3,000 to $5,000 for contraband he had or was going to provide.Buenviaje also admitted that he received the contraband and some of the bribe payments by mail addressed to his ministry. Buenviaje received Suboxonean opioid ordinarily prescribed to treat drug addictionin its original packaging. Upon receipt, Buenviaje repackaged the drug in cellophane for distribution in the prison. Buenviaje also received notebooks with drug-soaked pages that he smuggled into the prison. After smuggling items he received into the prison, Buenviaje placed the contraband in a cabinet in the prison chapel where inmates would later retrieve the items.In November 2018, during a consensual search of Buenviaje's car and office, investigators found 111 Suboxone strips, some of which were in Buenviaje's car and some of which were in Buenviaje's office repackaged for distribution. Investigators also located multiple notebooks that Buenviaje had placed in a cabinet in his office for an inmate. Some pages in the notebooks had been soaked with unlawful synthetic cannabinoids, specifically FUB-AMB and 5F-ADB.Buenviaje is scheduled to be sentenced on Aug. 1."Those who work in federal prisons have a responsibility to uphold the law," said U.S. Attorney Murray. "By smuggling contraband into a prison, this defendant jeopardized the safety of the inmates and staff at the facility. Such conduct simply cannot be tolerated.""Today's guilty plea demonstrates that anyone who violates the public's trust and jeopardizes the security of federal prisons by introducing contraband will be brought to justice. We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to root out smuggling schemes in federal prisons," said DOJ OIG Special Agent-in-Charge Guido Modano.This matter was investigated by the U.S. Department of Justice Office of the Inspector General and FCI-Berlin's Office of the Special Investigative Supervisor. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Anna Z. Krasinski and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew T. Hunter. Berlin Reporter City Manager attends last work session Low Lily and Matt Flinner to perform at Medallion Opera House Thanks for visiting SalmonPress.com Carroll County Independent Ossipee man found guilty in fatal crash by Mellisa Seamans OSSIPEE A local man will be sentenced June 12 after being found responsible for the 2016 death of an Ossipee woman. A jury deliberated for less than an hour May 1 and found Jason Nason, 31, guilty of all charges stemming from a Sept. 13, 2016 crash on Route 16 in Ossipee that killed 61-year-old Janet Baumann and severely injured her husband, Gary. Nason stands convicted of manslaughter, negligent homicide, possession of the controlled drug Fentanyl, second degree assault, aggravated driving under the influence with injury, and driving under the influence subsequent offense. Nason, who was 28 at the time of the crash, faces a possible 27 years in prison and an indefinite loss of his driving privileges. The crash, just south of Deer Cap Campground, was a violent head-on collision that crushed the Baumann's 1999 Honda Accord that then caused Nason's 2004 Dodge pickup to roll over and sideswipe a third vehicle. Janet Baumann, who was driving the Accord and reportedly tried to avoid the crash, was pronounced dead at the scene. Gary Baumann, 67, was airlifted to the hospital with life threatening injuries and remained in a coma for a month. Nason and the occupants of the third vehicle were not injured. There were several witnesses to the accident and others who reported seeing Nason driving erratically for several miles before the crash. The Baumanns, who were married 34 years had just recently retired and moved to Ossipee Corner Village two months before the accident. Carroll County Attorney Michaela Andruzzi delivered the closing arguments May 1. "Everyone was rushing around, trying to save the evidence and save Janet and save Gary the defendant was trying to save himself and hide his drugs. His first thought was to save himself and hide his drugs," Andruzzi said. In a statement following the trial verdict, Andruzzi said, "While this office is concerned with ensuring that individuals with substance abuse issues get the help they need, we will not stand for people who are wreaking havoc in our community by killing and injuring others. Gary Baumann has suffered unimaginable loss because of this crash, so it is right and just for the person responsible to be held accountable." She went on to praise the work of the officers, medical personnel, New Hampshire Crime Laboratory, NH State Police Crash Analysis Reconstruction Unit, and the courage of Gary Baumann and the citizen witnesses who testified. Nason's June 12 sentencing is scheduled for 1 p.m. at Carroll County Superior Court in Ossipee. OSSIPEE A local man will be sentenced June 12 after being found responsible for the 2016 death of an Ossipee woman.A jury deliberated for less than an hour May 1 and found Jason Nason, 31, guilty of all charges stemming from a Sept. 13, 2016 crash on Route 16 in Ossipee that killed 61-year-old Janet Baumann and severely injured her husband, Gary.Nason stands convicted of manslaughter, negligent homicide, possession of the controlled drug Fentanyl, second degree assault, aggravated driving under the influence with injury, and driving under the influence subsequent offense.Nason, who was 28 at the time of the crash, faces a possible 27 years in prison and an indefinite loss of his driving privileges.The crash, just south of Deer Cap Campground, was a violent head-on collision that crushed the Baumann's 1999 Honda Accord that then caused Nason's 2004 Dodge pickup to roll over and sideswipe a third vehicle. Janet Baumann, who was driving the Accord and reportedly tried to avoid the crash, was pronounced dead at the scene. Gary Baumann, 67, was airlifted to the hospital with life threatening injuries and remained in a coma for a month. Nason and the occupants of the third vehicle were not injured. There were several witnesses to the accident and others who reported seeing Nason driving erratically for several miles before the crash.The Baumanns, who were married 34 years had just recently retired and moved to Ossipee Corner Village two months before the accident.Carroll County Attorney Michaela Andruzzi delivered the closing arguments May 1."Everyone was rushing around, trying to save the evidence and save Janet and save Gary the defendant was trying to save himself and hide his drugs. His first thought was to save himself and hide his drugs," Andruzzi said.In a statement following the trial verdict, Andruzzi said, "While this office is concerned with ensuring that individuals with substance abuse issues get the help they need, we will not stand for people who are wreaking havoc in our community by killing and injuring others. Gary Baumann has suffered unimaginable loss because of this crash, so it is right and just for the person responsible to be held accountable."She went on to praise the work of the officers, medical personnel, New Hampshire Crime Laboratory, NH State Police Crash Analysis Reconstruction Unit, and the courage of Gary Baumann and the citizen witnesses who testified.Nason's June 12 sentencing is scheduled for 1 p.m. at Carroll County Superior Court in Ossipee. Coos County Democrat New eatery brings Caribbean flavor to Lancaster by Tara Giles Sports reporter - Coos County Democrat and Berlin Reporter Sports reporter - Coos County Democrat and Berlin Reporter write the author LANCASTER A new restaurant has opened in Lancaster and it's like nothing else offered in town. The Caribbean Spice Cafe is now located at what was JL Sullivans, across from Town Hall. New owners Andre and Kadeen Moncrieffe offer an authentic Caribbean cuisine that many locals have already come to enjoy. The interior of the restaurant has been changed into a colorful environment that represents the owner's home country of Jamaica. On the walls are famous Jamaicans such as Bob Marley, Usain Bolt (the fastest man alive) and Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce (the first Caribbean woman to win the 100m gold at the Olympics) with many more that will soon don the walls. Through the speakers a mix of reggae music can be heard but what makes this cafe special is of course it's unique cuisine. Included on the menu are green plantain nachos, island jerk burger, oxtail, curried goat, cajun chicken, shrimp pesto and ocean caught snapper to name a few. For the not so adventurous eater, there are more common menu items such as jerked pork, mozzarella sticks, pineapple chicken, surf and turf, fish and chips and the simple BLT. The full menu includes various dishes that continue to receive rave reviews from all who walk through the door. Moncrieffe sat down with the Democrat last week and explained his journey to Lancaster, explaining that "I've always been involved in the food industry with my entire family working in the tourism field. In Jamaica tourism is huge." Moncrieffe went to college where he earned a degree in business. He then furthered his career in culinary arts at the push of his father. "In Jamaica's tourism industry, everything has to be perfect and on point. This training is what brought me here today," he said. Moncrieffe made the move from Jamaica to New England in 2000. As for the North Country, he likes it. "I grew up in the country side in Jamaica, where my grandfather and father were both farmers. I enjoy the peace and quiet. I fell in love with New England right away and I'm a Red Sox fan all the way," he joked. When he first sought to open a Caribbean restaurant in town, others told him it simply wouldn't work. Moncrieffe, had a different perspective however, commenting that "The key is, if you're Jamaican, you won't crave Jamaican food. If you're used to another culture, you want to experience another culture's food. I walked through Lancaster and realized it needed a place like ours." Moncrieffe, was right. Since the doors opened in early April business has been thriving. "The locals have welcomed us with open arms and really seem to enjoy the food and the company," said Montclief. The staff includes a chef and bartender from Jamaica, however the Moncrieffe's have hired locals to grow their staff. The restaurant is open for a traditional breakfast, that includes the basics, however the menu does include Jamaican style breakfast as well. The cafe is open seven days a week from 7:30 a.m. - 10 p.m. LANCASTER A new restaurant has opened in Lancaster and it's like nothing else offered in town. The Caribbean Spice Cafe is now located at what was JL Sullivans, across from Town Hall. New owners Andre and Kadeen Moncrieffe offer an authentic Caribbean cuisine that many locals have already come to enjoy.The interior of the restaurant has been changed into a colorful environment that represents the owner's home country of Jamaica. On the walls are famous Jamaicans such as Bob Marley, Usain Bolt (the fastest man alive) and Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce (the first Caribbean woman to win the 100m gold at the Olympics) with many more that will soon don the walls. Through the speakers a mix of reggae music can be heard but what makes this cafe special is of course it's unique cuisine.Included on the menu are green plantain nachos, island jerk burger, oxtail, curried goat, cajun chicken, shrimp pesto and ocean caught snapper to name a few. For the not so adventurous eater, there are more common menu items such as jerked pork, mozzarella sticks, pineapple chicken, surf and turf, fish and chips and the simple BLT. The full menu includes various dishes that continue to receive rave reviews from all who walk through the door.Moncrieffe sat down with the Democrat last week and explained his journey to Lancaster, explaining that "I've always been involved in the food industry with my entire family working in the tourism field. In Jamaica tourism is huge."Moncrieffe went to college where he earned a degree in business. He then furthered his career in culinary arts at the push of his father."In Jamaica's tourism industry, everything has to be perfect and on point. This training is what brought me here today," he said.Moncrieffe made the move from Jamaica to New England in 2000. As for the North Country, he likes it."I grew up in the country side in Jamaica, where my grandfather and father were both farmers. I enjoy the peace and quiet. I fell in love with New England right away and I'm a Red Sox fan all the way," he joked.When he first sought to open a Caribbean restaurant in town, others told him it simply wouldn't work. Moncrieffe, had a different perspective however, commenting that "The key is, if you're Jamaican, you won't crave Jamaican food. If you're used to another culture, you want to experience another culture's food. I walked through Lancaster and realized it needed a place like ours."Moncrieffe, was right. Since the doors opened in early April business has been thriving."The locals have welcomed us with open arms and really seem to enjoy the food and the company," said Montclief.The staff includes a chef and bartender from Jamaica, however the Moncrieffe's have hired locals to grow their staff.The restaurant is open for a traditional breakfast, that includes the basics, however the menu does include Jamaican style breakfast as well. The cafe is open seven days a week from 7:30 a.m. - 10 p.m. Littleton Courier LRH's split from NCH prompts litigation by Tara Giles Sports reporter - Coos County Democrat and Berlin Reporter Sports reporter - Coos County Democrat and Berlin Reporter write the author LITTLETON In late February, Littleton Regional Healthcare gave notice of intent to withdraw from their three year affiliation with North Country Healthcare, founded in 2015, as a limited liability corporation between LRH and three other major area hospitals: Upper Connecticut Valley Hospital (Colebrook), Androscoggin Valley Hospital (Berlin), and Weeks Medical Center (Lancaster), and North Country Home and Hospice (Littleton). If Littleton Regional Healthcare had remained, the association would have become permanent. In a previous report to the Courier in February, LRH President Bob Nutter offered this as a statement in regards to the withdrawal: "The goals of the affiliation have been closely evaluated since the agreement was implemented, we have concluded that because of our different strategies and distinctive communities served, these goals can best be achieved independently." On April 4, LRH filed suit against NCH. The complaint reads, "LRH has brought a complaint against the defendants seeking temporary, preliminary and final relief compelling defendants to take steps to implement and not interfere with Littleton's withdrawal from a certain affiliation agreement it entered into with the other hospitals. Littleton has filed it's suit in Merrimack County Superior Court in the Businesses and Commercial Dispute Docket." The complaint goes on, "A hearing on the Plaintiff's (LRH) request for a temporary restraining order pursuant to superior court rule 48 shall be held on April 16." In the court filing, LRH stated, "LRH brings this action to enforce its certain and unqualified contractual right to withdraw from a loose affiliation of hospitals in the northern region of New Hampshire that share as their parent corporation North Country Healthcare, Inc. This case involves a business dispute over unique contractual rights accordingly, meets the criteria of Superior Court Rule 201(III)." In turn, NCH filed a counter suit in Coos County Superior Court. Defendants in that case are listed as Littleton Regional Association D/B/A Littleton Regional Healthcare, Roger Gingue, Patrick Fitzpatrick, Robert Nutter, Edward Duffy and George Hunter. System Director for NCH James Patry said, "We welcome the intervention of the New Hampshire State Attorney General on Littleton Regional Hospital's intention to withdraw affiliation with North Country Healthcare. The process to create NCH was open and public, and any proposed changes to its structure should also be transparent, intentional and public. We will participate fully and honor the results of an open and public process. Our Hospitals worked cooperatively for two years to hold community forums, create a business plan, and get approval from the New Hampshire State Attorney General to affiliate in 2016." Patry continued, "LRH served notice of their intent to withdraw and took legal actions in order to accelerate that withdrawal to pursue 'new opportunities.' This violated our Affiliation Agreement (to which all NCH members are legally bound. Our Agreement clearly states that an accelerated or alternative withdrawal process is not allowed. The terms of the Agreement were specifically designed so all parties would follow a fair and equitable negotiation process that would allow enough time to smoothly unwind the integration that has taken place over the last several years." NCH stated that they are disappointed that LRH has taken their dispute to the courts and has chosen not to follow the agreed-upon departure guidelines that include a four month period for review and negotiation. "After they approached us with their intention to leave, we recommended holding a meeting of the LRH and NCH Boards in the interest of resolving this issue with open and transparent communication. LRH opted not to participate, and then filed suit," Patry said. "In light of that LRH lawsuit, North County Healthcare filed a counter-suit in Coos County Court against Littleton Regional Hospital for failing to live up to our affiliation agreement, negotiating in bad faith, and taking unilateral actions that go against the spirit of collaboration of our Affiliates in providing improved, efficiently-delivered healthcare to the citizens of the North Country." In closing, Patry explained that NCH will continue to work towards dispute resolution, stating "We hope to engage LRH in transparent and productive discussions, towards the goal of continued collaborative healthcare in the North Country. We continue to respect and value LRH's leadership within the Affiliation, and their substantial contributions to the health of the region's communities." "Every day, our employees and medical staff strive to serve families across the North Country." said Patry. "We are proud of what we are accomplishing, and we care deeply about the communities we serve. That is what drives us. The actions of LRH will not deter us from our Mission: to assure consistent, high quality, accessible, and integrated healthcare across the communities we serve." Former LRH Trustee Mell Brooks stated in a letter to the editor submitted for publication in this week's Littleton Courier that the withdrawal was a "staggering surprise" to him. Brooks wrote, "For nine years, I was an LRH Trustee; it was at that time that Warren West became CEO and Dr. Ed Duffy the Board Chair. Often, I think how lucky LRH was to have these men at that time. The three years they worked as a team put LRH on the path to become the hospital it is today - and unbeknownst at the time, to be part of NCH in June 2015." Brooks went on to say,"Both Warren and Ed have served as CEO of NCH. And, now, as NCH brings on Tom Mee (a most qualified and competent healthcare professional) as its new CEO, Littleton wants to withdraw from NCH." Brooks added, "I don't understand this. We are told the withdrawal is "because of our different strategies and distinctive communities served, these goals can be best achieved independently." But the facts, as I can ascertain, do not support that statement - it's just the opposite." Officials at LRH were contacted for comment on this report, but said they are not prepared to address either suit publicly at this point in time. They promised, however, that a statement will be forthcoming in the near future. LITTLETON In late February, Littleton Regional Healthcare gave notice of intent to withdraw from their three year affiliation with North Country Healthcare, founded in 2015, as a limited liability corporation between LRH and three other major area hospitals: Upper Connecticut Valley Hospital (Colebrook), Androscoggin Valley Hospital (Berlin), and Weeks Medical Center (Lancaster), and North Country Home and Hospice (Littleton). If Littleton Regional Healthcare had remained, the association would have become permanent.In a previous report to the Courier in February, LRH President Bob Nutter offered this as a statement in regards to the withdrawal: "The goals of the affiliation have been closely evaluated since the agreement was implemented, we have concluded that because of our different strategies and distinctive communities served, these goals can best be achieved independently."On April 4, LRH filed suit against NCH.The complaint reads, "LRH has brought a complaint against the defendants seeking temporary, preliminary and final relief compelling defendants to take steps to implement and not interfere with Littleton's withdrawal from a certain affiliation agreement it entered into with the other hospitals. Littleton has filed it's suit in Merrimack County Superior Court in the Businesses and Commercial Dispute Docket."The complaint goes on, "A hearing on the Plaintiff's (LRH) request for a temporary restraining order pursuant to superior court rule 48 shall be held on April 16."In the court filing, LRH stated, "LRH brings this action to enforce its certain and unqualified contractual right to withdraw from a loose affiliation of hospitals in the northern region of New Hampshire that share as their parent corporation North Country Healthcare, Inc. This case involves a business dispute over unique contractual rights accordingly, meets the criteria of Superior Court Rule 201(III)."In turn, NCH filed a counter suit in Coos County Superior Court. Defendants in that case are listed as Littleton Regional Association D/B/A Littleton Regional Healthcare, Roger Gingue, Patrick Fitzpatrick, Robert Nutter, Edward Duffy and George Hunter.System Director for NCH James Patry said, "We welcome the intervention of the New Hampshire State Attorney General on Littleton Regional Hospital's intention to withdraw affiliation with North Country Healthcare. The process to create NCH was open and public, and any proposed changes to its structure should also be transparent, intentional and public. We will participate fully and honor the results of an open and public process. Our Hospitals worked cooperatively for two years to hold community forums, create a business plan, and get approval from the New Hampshire State Attorney General to affiliate in 2016."Patry continued, "LRH served notice of their intent to withdraw and took legal actions in order to accelerate that withdrawal to pursue 'new opportunities.' This violated our Affiliation Agreement (to which all NCH members are legally bound. Our Agreement clearly states that an accelerated or alternative withdrawal process is not allowed. The terms of the Agreement were specifically designed so all parties would follow a fair and equitable negotiation process that would allow enough time to smoothly unwind the integration that has taken place over the last several years."NCH stated that they are disappointed that LRH has taken their dispute to the courts and has chosen not to follow the agreed-upon departure guidelines that include a four month period for review and negotiation."After they approached us with their intention to leave, we recommended holding a meeting of the LRH and NCH Boards in the interest of resolving this issue with open and transparent communication. LRH opted not to participate, and then filed suit," Patry said. "In light of that LRH lawsuit, North County Healthcare filed a counter-suit in Coos County Court against Littleton Regional Hospital for failing to live up to our affiliation agreement, negotiating in bad faith, and taking unilateral actions that go against the spirit of collaboration of our Affiliates in providing improved, efficiently-delivered healthcare to the citizens of the North Country."In closing, Patry explained that NCH will continue to work towards dispute resolution, stating "We hope to engage LRH in transparent and productive discussions, towards the goal of continued collaborative healthcare in the North Country. We continue to respect and value LRH's leadership within the Affiliation, and their substantial contributions to the health of the region's communities.""Every day, our employees and medical staff strive to serve families across the North Country." said Patry. "We are proud of what we are accomplishing, and we care deeply about the communities we serve. That is what drives us. The actions of LRH will not deter us from our Mission: to assure consistent, high quality, accessible, and integrated healthcare across the communities we serve."Former LRH Trustee Mell Brooks stated in a letter to the editor submitted for publication in this week's Littleton Courier that the withdrawal was a "staggering surprise" to him.Brooks wrote, "For nine years, I was an LRH Trustee; it was at that time that Warren West became CEO and Dr. Ed Duffy the Board Chair. Often, I think how lucky LRH was to have these men at that time. The three years they worked as a team put LRH on the path to become the hospital it is today - and unbeknownst at the time, to be part of NCH in June 2015." Brooks went on to say,"Both Warren and Ed have served as CEO of NCH. And, now, as NCH brings on Tom Mee (a most qualified and competent healthcare professional) as its new CEO, Littleton wants to withdraw from NCH."Brooks added, "I don't understand this. We are told the withdrawal is "because of our different strategies and distinctive communities served, these goals can be best achieved independently." But the facts, as I can ascertain, do not support that statement - it's just the opposite."Officials at LRH were contacted for comment on this report, but said they are not prepared to address either suit publicly at this point in time. They promised, however, that a statement will be forthcoming in the near future. Littleton Courier Ammonoosuc Habitat for Humanity seeks director Grafton County Nursing Home relaxes visitation restrictions Recent Tara Giles City Manager attends last work session 2021-Dec-09 Spartan hoop boys hope to be top contender in Division III 2021-Dec-09 Fire destroys home in Dalton 2021-Dec-09 Northumberland police arrest fugitive from justice 2021-Dec-09 City Council discusses mask ordinance 2021-Dec-02 Lancaster Fire seeing long distance transfers increase due to lack of beds 2021-Dec-02 More... Thanks for visiting SalmonPress.com The Egyptian cabinet said in a statement on Thursday that American aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln has passed through Egypt's Suez Canal; the White House said earlier this week that the deployment is in response to troubling indications and warnings from Iran. The movement of the warship was observed by US Major General Ralph Groover, Senior Defense Official and Defense Attache at the US embassy in Cairo, "who came specially to check up on the safe passage" of the US carrier, the cabinet said. US National Security Adviser John Bolton said the move aimed to send a "clear and unmistakable message" that the US will retaliate with "unrelenting force" to any attack. Groover met with Mohab Mamish, head of the Suez Canal Authority, and praised Egypt's "efficient security procedures" to ensure the safe passage of ships through the canal, the cabinet's statement quoted him as saying. The deployment of the carrier comes amid claims of a possible attack on US forces stationed in the region, unnamed US officials were quoted as saying. Search Keywords: Short link: Littleton Courier Local war hero's descendant joins DAR by Tara Giles Sports reporter - Coos County Democrat and Berlin Reporter Sports reporter - Coos County Democrat and Berlin Reporter write the author Jennifer Wedick Penoso was recently admitted into the Daugthers of the American Revolution after proving her lineage to Samuel Lang, a 'true' American patriot. (Courtesy Photo) (click for larger version) HAVERHILL A descendant of a Haverhill war hero has recently been admitted into the Daughters of the American Revolution. Jennifer Wedick Penoso proved her lineage to Samuel Lang. Lang was born in Portsmouth in 1755, and was recruited into war service from Haverhill in 1776. In 1777 he married and settled in the town of Bath where he is buried today. Penoso said, "Samuel lang was a true New Hampshirite and American Patriot." Penoso proved that she is the fifth great-granddaughter of Lang and further provided documentation of his loyal service in the founding of America. She explained that DAR, founded in 1890 and headquartered in Washington, D.C., is a non-profit, non-political volunteer women's service organization dedicated to promoting patriotism, preserving American history, and securing America's future through better education for children. Penoso lives in Alexandria, Va., and is a member of the John Alexander Chapter. She is related to Samuel Lang through her late mother's side. Her parents, Jean (Presby) and John L. Wedick, Jr., both hail from the 'North Country' and ancestors on her mother's side can be traced back to the earliest settlers of Massachusetts and New Hampshire. From Samuel and his wife Susan "Sukey" Salter Lang, the next four generations of Langs were born and resided in Bath. Penoso's great-grandfather, Dwight Child Reed married Addie Woods and moved to Landaff, where her beloved grandmother, Ellen was born. She married Larry Presby and they moved to Littleton, where he had a photo studio above Profido's Market. Penoso's mother, Jean Presby Wedick, graduated with the class of 1950 from Littleton High School and when her parents retired, they returned back home to Bethlehem, where her father lives today. Penoso said "the DAR is a distinguished and prestigious organization and I am excited to serve its causes. I am proud of my amazing American family story and pleased to establish Samuel Lang's legacy for my daughter and nieces, who can join the DAR when they are 18 years old." Penoso when on to note, "my only regret is that my mother is gone. She was the most tender-hearted, giving person you'd ever meet. She would have loved the DAR and to know that her great New Hampshire family played a part in the founding of America." HAVERHILL A descendant of a Haverhill war hero has recently been admitted into the Daughters of the American Revolution. Jennifer Wedick Penoso proved her lineage to Samuel Lang.Lang was born in Portsmouth in 1755, and was recruited into war service from Haverhill in 1776. In 1777 he married and settled in the town of Bath where he is buried today.Penoso said, "Samuel lang was a true New Hampshirite and American Patriot."Penoso proved that she is the fifth great-granddaughter of Lang and further provided documentation of his loyal service in the founding of America.She explained that DAR, founded in 1890 and headquartered in Washington, D.C., is a non-profit, non-political volunteer women's service organization dedicated to promoting patriotism, preserving American history, and securing America's future through better education for children.Penoso lives in Alexandria, Va., and is a member of the John Alexander Chapter. She is related to Samuel Lang through her late mother's side. Her parents, Jean (Presby) and John L. Wedick, Jr., both hail from the 'North Country' and ancestors on her mother's side can be traced back to the earliest settlers of Massachusetts and New Hampshire.From Samuel and his wife Susan "Sukey" Salter Lang, the next four generations of Langs were born and resided in Bath. Penoso's great-grandfather, Dwight Child Reed married Addie Woods and moved to Landaff, where her beloved grandmother, Ellen was born. She married Larry Presby and they moved to Littleton, where he had a photo studio above Profido's Market. Penoso's mother, Jean Presby Wedick, graduated with the class of 1950 from Littleton High School and when her parents retired, they returned back home to Bethlehem, where her father lives today.Penoso said "the DAR is a distinguished and prestigious organization and I am excited to serve its causes. I am proud of my amazing American family story and pleased to establish Samuel Lang's legacy for my daughter and nieces, who can join the DAR when they are 18 years old."Penoso when on to note, "my only regret is that my mother is gone. She was the most tender-hearted, giving person you'd ever meet. She would have loved the DAR and to know that her great New Hampshire family played a part in the founding of America." Meredith News Mill Falls properties sold Rhode Island company to take over as Rusty McLear steps aside by Erin Plummer MEREDITH All Mill Falls on the Lake hotels are now under new ownership after being sold to a Rhode Island Company with former principal Edward "Rusty" McLear stepping aside. As of April 26 the Hampshire Hospitality Holdings properties including the Mills Falls, the Chase House, the the Inn at Church Landing, the Inn at Bay Point are now owned by TPG Hotels & Resorts of Cranston, Rhode Island. McLear said a number of factors went into his decision to sell the company. He is 73-years-old now, and others in the company are close to that age, plus they have been managing these properties for the past 36 years. The properties consist of 300,000 square feet of wooden buildings, some of which are quite old. McLear said they capital budget has more than doubled in the past four or five years and will probably double again in the next five years. "That would mean (we) would have to spend $5 million a year to keep the place up," McLear said. "That is going to be a problem." He researched the recent history of older properties such as the Mountain View Grand Resort, the Mount Washington Hotel, and Plymouth By the Sea in Massachusetts. He said all of those had the same problems that eventually got much worse for the businesses. McLear said the options were to find a rich partner or a big company to partner with or sell the company. After consideration the decision was made to sell. McLear worked with JLL, a company out of Chicago that sells commercial real estate. With no desire to publicly advertise the company, JLL put word out to CEO's and other large company owners that the company was up for sale. McLear and his partners put together a prospectus, which was sent out to 14 different companies. Within a month 12 of those companies said they were interested and visited the property, then four made an offer. The sale was made to TPG Hotels & Resorts of Cranston, Rhode Island owned by the family-run Procaccianti Companies. The company manages over 160 hotels and over 30,000 guest rooms around the country, operating and developing hotels for Hyatt, Hilton, Marriott, Wyndham, and a number of others. "They were big enough to make sure the properties can be taken care of," McLear said. McLear said Pricaccianti Companies President and CEO James Procaccianti has a son who attends New Hampton School and he has stayed at Mill Falls properties numerous times. "Mill Falls at the Lake is a remarkable destination our family has admired and visited for decades," Procaccianti said in a statement posted on the company Web site. "Opportunities to operate heirloom-quality, historic properties like Mill Falls are extremely rare and we feel privileged to be the new custodians of the tremendous legacies the company has established within the community." McLear said the sale was an emotional process. "I realize this was absolutely the right thing to do, it made it much easier to do," McLear said. "It's still pretty emotional to me." All of Mill Falls' employees have been retained including General manager Gail Batstone, Head of Engineering Tim Marchand, head of spa Martha Zyla, and more. The company will still retain the Common Man restaurants. McLear said he himself is the only current member of the company who will not be continuing. "It's been a great ride, and a great community to hook my wagon to," McLear said. McLear will be staying in Meredith and will focus on his own company Granite State Hospitality. McLear and Alex Ray of the Common Man will continue their involvement in the Hooksett Welcome Centers on I-93 (along with partner Brad pernaw) and the Common Man Inn and Restaurant in Claremont. McLear will also keep the Ekal building, the Mobil gas station, and a number of buildings on Main Street. McLear said they did purchase a large piece of land on Main Street for an as-yet unnamed project. The company's main offices will be located in a building on Main Street, which they are moving into now. McLear, Ray, and Pernaw will be opening some small Common Man Roadside stores similar to the ones at the rest areas. So far plans are in place to open one in Plymouth and one in Manchester. McLear said he has gotten a lot of support from people in town since word of the sale got out. "I can't tell you how many people that have come up to me in the grocery store and the post office who have said kind things," McLear said. "Pretty much the whole thing's been great." MEREDITH All Mill Falls on the Lake hotels are now under new ownership after being sold to a Rhode Island Company with former principal Edward "Rusty" McLear stepping aside.As of April 26 the Hampshire Hospitality Holdings properties including the Mills Falls, the Chase House, the the Inn at Church Landing, the Inn at Bay Point are now owned by TPG Hotels & Resorts of Cranston, Rhode Island.McLear said a number of factors went into his decision to sell the company. He is 73-years-old now, and others in the company are close to that age, plus they have been managing these properties for the past 36 years.The properties consist of 300,000 square feet of wooden buildings, some of which are quite old. McLear said they capital budget has more than doubled in the past four or five years and will probably double again in the next five years."That would mean (we) would have to spend $5 million a year to keep the place up," McLear said. "That is going to be a problem."He researched the recent history of older properties such as the Mountain View Grand Resort, the Mount Washington Hotel, and Plymouth By the Sea in Massachusetts. He said all of those had the same problems that eventually got much worse for the businesses.McLear said the options were to find a rich partner or a big company to partner with or sell the company. After consideration the decision was made to sell.McLear worked with JLL, a company out of Chicago that sells commercial real estate. With no desire to publicly advertise the company, JLL put word out to CEO's and other large company owners that the company was up for sale. McLear and his partners put together a prospectus, which was sent out to 14 different companies. Within a month 12 of those companies said they were interested and visited the property, then four made an offer.The sale was made to TPG Hotels & Resorts of Cranston, Rhode Island owned by the family-run Procaccianti Companies. The company manages over 160 hotels and over 30,000 guest rooms around the country, operating and developing hotels for Hyatt, Hilton, Marriott, Wyndham, and a number of others."They were big enough to make sure the properties can be taken care of," McLear said.McLear said Pricaccianti Companies President and CEO James Procaccianti has a son who attends New Hampton School and he has stayed at Mill Falls properties numerous times."Mill Falls at the Lake is a remarkable destination our family has admired and visited for decades," Procaccianti said in a statement posted on the company Web site. "Opportunities to operate heirloom-quality, historic properties like Mill Falls are extremely rare and we feel privileged to be the new custodians of the tremendous legacies the company has established within the community."McLear said the sale was an emotional process."I realize this was absolutely the right thing to do, it made it much easier to do," McLear said. "It's still pretty emotional to me."All of Mill Falls' employees have been retained including General manager Gail Batstone, Head of Engineering Tim Marchand, head of spa Martha Zyla, and more. The company will still retain the Common Man restaurants. McLear said he himself is the only current member of the company who will not be continuing."It's been a great ride, and a great community to hook my wagon to," McLear said.McLear will be staying in Meredith and will focus on his own company Granite State Hospitality. McLear and Alex Ray of the Common Man will continue their involvement in the Hooksett Welcome Centers on I-93 (along with partner Brad pernaw) and the Common Man Inn and Restaurant in Claremont. McLear will also keep the Ekal building, the Mobil gas station, and a number of buildings on Main Street. McLear said they did purchase a large piece of land on Main Street for an as-yet unnamed project. The company's main offices will be located in a building on Main Street, which they are moving into now.McLear, Ray, and Pernaw will be opening some small Common Man Roadside stores similar to the ones at the rest areas. So far plans are in place to open one in Plymouth and one in Manchester.McLear said he has gotten a lot of support from people in town since word of the sale got out."I can't tell you how many people that have come up to me in the grocery store and the post office who have said kind things," McLear said. "Pretty much the whole thing's been great." Thanks for visiting SalmonPress.com Plymouth Record Enterprise Regatta paddlers pitch in to clean up river banks by Donna Rhodes write the author Students from Plymouth State University were excited to take part in the second annual Baker River Regatta in support of Mountain Village Charter School last Saturday. (Photo by Donna Rhodes) (click for larger version) PLYMOUTH Mountain Village Charter School's second Baker River Regatta was not only a great opportunity to explore the recreational and environmental values of the Baker River; it was also a chance to clean up its banks so all can enjoy the natural beauty of the watershed. "We picked up bottles and cans and plastic and even some tires that were out there," one enthusiastic group of youngsters reported after the event. Race organizer Jamie Hannon is also chair of the school's Board of Trustees and said the regatta's pre-race sign up was not as high this year but he attributed that to the recent rainy weather. As race time neared however, supporters of the school and its environmental mission did not let him down as they arrived to take part in the event. This year, the regatta saw a couple of changes. The start line was moved for most participants up stream from the Millennium Covered Bridge to the Plymouth Sands Campground where there was easier river access for the four-and-a-half mile trek to Plymouth's Amphitheater. The second change was that the more ambitious paddlers could opt this time for a longer course, resulting in a nine-mile water trek that began at Riverbrook RV Park in Rumney. While there were awards in several divisions awaiting those who completed the course in the fastest time or collected the most trash along the way, the fun factor was the awards for those who had the best costumes or decorated boats. Creativity in that category was high this year. Some participants adopted a pirate theme, such as MVCS faculty members Olivia Casey and Madeline Zukowski. With the running of the Kentucky Derby that day, one entrant dressed in a floral dress and floppy hat derby attire with a Unicorn adorning her canoe. Still another took on a more country version of the race; a small stall structure and horse stuffed animal, complete with a bale of hay, decked out their entry. There was even a boat full of rabbits that paddled the course. Paddling the course in their Floating Dragon canoe, Simone and her friend Liam were excited for the start of this year's regatta. "I'm not doing this because we want to win, I'm doing this because I want to have fun," Liam said, adding, "And clean up the river." Hannon is also a professor at Plymouth State University who encouraged his students to join in the regatta once again this year and they did not disappoint him. Several showed up with a flamingo adorned canoe, Hawaiian attire, jungle hats, sunscreen lathered noses and a sign that proclaimed "The Party Is Here." Many of the MVCS students were especially excited to see one particular PSU student however. Last year paddle boarder Nick Boccia delighted them by taking part in their fundraiser dressed as "The Little Mermaid." This year he followed that up by arriving as Pocahontas. "I guess I have a Disney Princess theme going for this event," he laughed. Preparing to head out on the course he even treated them to a few lines of the song "Just Around the Riverbend" from the movie, "Pocahontas." As the race was ready to begin, Hannon thanked all who signed on for the paddle, saying he was glad to see it was not just members of the school community who were involved. He expressed his appreciation to a number of local sponsors as well as both campgrounds that allowed river access for the regatta. The race was developed last year to not only raise funds for the school but to help bring renewed awareness to the Baker River Watershed, its resources and importance to its bordering communities. Hannon said he was grateful that others recognized its worth, too, as they support Mountain Village Charter School and its environmental focus. "It's great to see that it's not just our school paddling and enjoying the Baker River here today," he said. "Thank you all for being part of this!" PLYMOUTH Mountain Village Charter School's second Baker River Regatta was not only a great opportunity to explore the recreational and environmental values of the Baker River; it was also a chance to clean up its banks so all can enjoy the natural beauty of the watershed."We picked up bottles and cans and plastic and even some tires that were out there," one enthusiastic group of youngsters reported after the event.Race organizer Jamie Hannon is also chair of the school's Board of Trustees and said the regatta's pre-race sign up was not as high this year but he attributed that to the recent rainy weather. As race time neared however, supporters of the school and its environmental mission did not let him down as they arrived to take part in the event.This year, the regatta saw a couple of changes. The start line was moved for most participants up stream from the Millennium Covered Bridge to the Plymouth Sands Campground where there was easier river access for the four-and-a-half mile trek to Plymouth's Amphitheater. The second change was that the more ambitious paddlers could opt this time for a longer course, resulting in a nine-mile water trek that began at Riverbrook RV Park in Rumney.While there were awards in several divisions awaiting those who completed the course in the fastest time or collected the most trash along the way, the fun factor was the awards for those who had the best costumes or decorated boats.Creativity in that category was high this year. Some participants adopted a pirate theme, such as MVCS faculty members Olivia Casey and Madeline Zukowski. With the running of the Kentucky Derby that day, one entrant dressed in a floral dress and floppy hat derby attire with a Unicorn adorning her canoe. Still another took on a more country version of the race; a small stall structure and horse stuffed animal, complete with a bale of hay, decked out their entry. There was even a boat full of rabbits that paddled the course.Paddling the course in their Floating Dragon canoe, Simone and her friend Liam were excited for the start of this year's regatta."I'm not doing this because we want to win, I'm doing this because I want to have fun," Liam said, adding, "And clean up the river."Hannon is also a professor at Plymouth State University who encouraged his students to join in the regatta once again this year and they did not disappoint him. Several showed up with a flamingo adorned canoe, Hawaiian attire, jungle hats, sunscreen lathered noses and a sign that proclaimed "The Party Is Here."Many of the MVCS students were especially excited to see one particular PSU student however. Last year paddle boarder Nick Boccia delighted them by taking part in their fundraiser dressed as "The Little Mermaid." This year he followed that up by arriving as Pocahontas."I guess I have a Disney Princess theme going for this event," he laughed.Preparing to head out on the course he even treated them to a few lines of the song "Just Around the Riverbend" from the movie, "Pocahontas."As the race was ready to begin, Hannon thanked all who signed on for the paddle, saying he was glad to see it was not just members of the school community who were involved. He expressed his appreciation to a number of local sponsors as well as both campgrounds that allowed river access for the regatta.The race was developed last year to not only raise funds for the school but to help bring renewed awareness to the Baker River Watershed, its resources and importance to its bordering communities. Hannon said he was grateful that others recognized its worth, too, as they support Mountain Village Charter School and its environmental focus."It's great to see that it's not just our school paddling and enjoying the Baker River here today," he said. "Thank you all for being part of this!" Plymouth Record Enterprise Student-led fundraiser climbs above expectations by Donna Rhodes write the author New Hampshire State Sen. Bob Guida took part in a "Pie for Prevention" auction during the "Climb Above Addiction" fundraiser last weekend. The winning bid to throw a pie in his face came from Luke Legacy, president of CADY's Youth Advisory and Advocacy Council. (Photo by Donna Rhodes) (click for larger version) RUMNEY Students from Plymouth State University's "Enactus" social and entrepreneurial class hosted their second annual Climb Above Addiction fundraiser at Rumney Rattlesnake Campground last Saturday, and people from all across the region helped them climb beyond their goals this year. Last year's inaugural "Climb Above Addiction" raised $7,000 for Plymouth House, a 12-step recovery retreat for those battling addictions. "Our goal last year was to raise $5,000 but with the $7,000 we received we were able to help two people go through treatment at Plymouth House," said senior Molly Timmins of Enactus. Timmins said the group first came up with the idea when they were seeking a way to make a difference in the community. With New Hampshire embroiled in a troubling war on drugs, they felt that was one way they could reach out to help others. "Everyone today has some kind of connection to the problem of addiction and with Rumney Rocks so nearby we felt this would be a way we could bring people together to have some fun while supporting an important cause," said Timmins. The 2019 Climb Above Addiction was expanded to not only benefit Plymouth House once again, but the teen prevention programs of CADY (Communities for Alcohol- and Drug-Free Youth) as well. Before the day even began, Enactus had already raised $7,500 through outside donations, $500 more than the goal they set for this year. And while last year approximately 250 people took part in the fundraiser, Timmins said they easily surpassed that number last weekend, too. "It's been a big success all around and the day's only halfway over," she said. The event was designed to resemble an old-fashioned family picnic. A $10 donation gave each person the chance to enjoy a free lunch, ice cream from the Common Man Restaurants, plenty of lawn games and live music from three local bands. In keeping with the theme of the event, there was also a rock-climbing wall that everyone could test their skills on throughout the day. And while those activities took place in the campground below the famed climbing ledges of Rumney Rocks, a personal challenge was also occurring on the rocks themselves that day. "We brought in two climbing professionals who are teaching 10 residents of Plymouth House how to rock climb today," Timmins said. "A huge part of recovery is to find something you love to do. We thought we'd give them the chance to learn about rock climbing to see if it's an outdoor activity they might want to become involved with in the future." At 1:30 p.m. a "Pie for Prevention" auction took place to raise even more money for Plymouth House and CADY. Several community leaders, such as New Hampshire State Sen. Bob Guida and PSU President Donald Birx, each volunteered to take a pie in the face from the person who bid the highest. "I'm out here doing this today because substance abuse is out of control in our state. Fighting it depends a lot on public-private partnerships like this to fill in the gaps and so far, that's been very effective," Guida said. "Besides, this is a great way to support a cause with a sense of humor. I'm taking a pie to the face but I'm also here to help put a shoulder to the wheel to fight addiction." RUMNEY Students from Plymouth State University's "Enactus" social and entrepreneurial class hosted their second annual Climb Above Addiction fundraiser at Rumney Rattlesnake Campground last Saturday, and people from all across the region helped them climb beyond their goals this year.Last year's inaugural "Climb Above Addiction" raised $7,000 for Plymouth House, a 12-step recovery retreat for those battling addictions."Our goal last year was to raise $5,000 but with the $7,000 we received we were able to help two people go through treatment at Plymouth House," said senior Molly Timmins of Enactus.Timmins said the group first came up with the idea when they were seeking a way to make a difference in the community. With New Hampshire embroiled in a troubling war on drugs, they felt that was one way they could reach out to help others."Everyone today has some kind of connection to the problem of addiction and with Rumney Rocks so nearby we felt this would be a way we could bring people together to have some fun while supporting an important cause," said Timmins.The 2019 Climb Above Addiction was expanded to not only benefit Plymouth House once again, but the teen prevention programs of CADY (Communities for Alcohol- and Drug-Free Youth) as well.Before the day even began, Enactus had already raised $7,500 through outside donations, $500 more than the goal they set for this year. And while last year approximately 250 people took part in the fundraiser, Timmins said they easily surpassed that number last weekend, too."It's been a big success all around and the day's only halfway over," she said.The event was designed to resemble an old-fashioned family picnic. A $10 donation gave each person the chance to enjoy a free lunch, ice cream from the Common Man Restaurants, plenty of lawn games and live music from three local bands. In keeping with the theme of the event, there was also a rock-climbing wall that everyone could test their skills on throughout the day.And while those activities took place in the campground below the famed climbing ledges of Rumney Rocks, a personal challenge was also occurring on the rocks themselves that day."We brought in two climbing professionals who are teaching 10 residents of Plymouth House how to rock climb today," Timmins said. "A huge part of recovery is to find something you love to do. We thought we'd give them the chance to learn about rock climbing to see if it's an outdoor activity they might want to become involved with in the future."At 1:30 p.m. a "Pie for Prevention" auction took place to raise even more money for Plymouth House and CADY. Several community leaders, such as New Hampshire State Sen. Bob Guida and PSU President Donald Birx, each volunteered to take a pie in the face from the person who bid the highest."I'm out here doing this today because substance abuse is out of control in our state. Fighting it depends a lot on public-private partnerships like this to fill in the gaps and so far, that's been very effective," Guida said. "Besides, this is a great way to support a cause with a sense of humor. I'm taking a pie to the face but I'm also here to help put a shoulder to the wheel to fight addiction." Winnisquam Echo Sanbornton students get creative with visiting artist by Donna Rhodes write the author Students at SCS enjoyed their first look at a colorful piece of art they all had a part in creating through their Artist in Residency project with Vermont sculptor and woodworker Mark Ragonese. (Photo by Donna Rhodes) (click for larger version) SANBORNTON Students at Sanbornton Central School celebrated the arts in a big way last Thursday morning, when the end result of a five-week project they participated in with an Artist in Residence was finally revealed. Principal Kathleen Pope said that when wood sculptor and furniture maker Mark Ragonese of Vermont was asked to participate in the project, every child in the school had a part in it as well. "Mark first came to the school and took some action shots of the kids that he then went home and transferred onto wood," she explained. Some of the photos he first mixed however, using the pose of an arm of one child and perhaps the legs, head or torso of another to come up with the final designs he had in mind for the project. Those were then sketched into patterns, cut out of wood and eventually made into a series of "puzzle pieces." When Ragonese returned to the school the pieces for each figure were distributed to the students in grades one through five for them all to paint. Kindergarten students were given an additional collection of pieces that formed asymmetrical stars created by Ragonese, which they painted as well. Before they could start painting though, each class was challenged to come up with their own color scheme for each of the figures Ragonese would later join together. SCS art teacher Joan Cross said that in preparation for the project the students first studied the color wheel and also learned about primary and secondary colors in their art classes. "We had to use acrylic paints for the project, which can be challenging at these ages, but they all did a great job with them," said Cross. Once the color palette for each figure was decided on, using shades of blue, pink, purple, yellow and green, they then added visual textures through stamping and other methods before Ragonese took them back to his workshop. Last Wednesday evening, the artist returned to the school, carefully affixing each puzzle piece to the brick walls along one outside entrance and down the hall leading to the cafeteria/gym. The result was a colorful display of children in motion with stars shining above. Cries of "I did that piece," "Oh, that's my piece," were heard time and again as one by one the classes paraded through the hall and entry way to admire their work and share their pride. "Everyone had a piece of this," said Pope. "Even the teachers and staff did something. Their names were all written on the back of each piece and this is something that will be here and they can be proud of for a long, long time." Every three years each elementary school in the Winnisquam Regional School District has the opportunity to select an Artist in Residence. Pope and Cross are each in their third year with SCS so it was their first opportunity to work with the program and they put a lot of thought into what they wanted the students to experience. Cross said she wanted something that was not "static" and that the children could be physically involved with creating while Pope wanted a work of art that involved all and would become a part of their legacy at SCS. When the pair heard about Ragonese's work in other Artist in Residency programs across New England, both knew they had found what they were looking for. Ragonese could not be on hand for the big reveal last Thursday but he did send a message to the students, thanking them for their hard work, their thoughtfulness in all they contributed and their cooperation throughout the lengthy process. School Superintendent Rob Seaward dropped by to see all they had accomplished and was filled with praise for the project. "Congratulations! This is a really neat concept. I wish I could buy one of these myself and bring it home," he said as he admired the two displays. Cross also pointed out to him that not only could students and staff enjoy the art each day, the figures hung outside the entrance were also visible to people traveling past the school. "I really like the fact that the community can drive by and enjoy this all from the road, too," she said. For Pope, however, there was another meaning to the figures now adorning the walls, all made possible through the contributions of each member of their school community. "Every single piece in this was important in making the artwork come together. That's how it is here with our students, too. The message is, when you're not here, there's a piece missing," she said. SANBORNTON Students at Sanbornton Central School celebrated the arts in a big way last Thursday morning, when the end result of a five-week project they participated in with an Artist in Residence was finally revealed.Principal Kathleen Pope said that when wood sculptor and furniture maker Mark Ragonese of Vermont was asked to participate in the project, every child in the school had a part in it as well."Mark first came to the school and took some action shots of the kids that he then went home and transferred onto wood," she explained.Some of the photos he first mixed however, using the pose of an arm of one child and perhaps the legs, head or torso of another to come up with the final designs he had in mind for the project. Those were then sketched into patterns, cut out of wood and eventually made into a series of "puzzle pieces."When Ragonese returned to the school the pieces for each figure were distributed to the students in grades one through five for them all to paint. Kindergarten students were given an additional collection of pieces that formed asymmetrical stars created by Ragonese, which they painted as well. Before they could start painting though, each class was challenged to come up with their own color scheme for each of the figures Ragonese would later join together.SCS art teacher Joan Cross said that in preparation for the project the students first studied the color wheel and also learned about primary and secondary colors in their art classes."We had to use acrylic paints for the project, which can be challenging at these ages, but they all did a great job with them," said Cross.Once the color palette for each figure was decided on, using shades of blue, pink, purple, yellow and green, they then added visual textures through stamping and other methods before Ragonese took them back to his workshop.Last Wednesday evening, the artist returned to the school, carefully affixing each puzzle piece to the brick walls along one outside entrance and down the hall leading to the cafeteria/gym. The result was a colorful display of children in motion with stars shining above.Cries of "I did that piece," "Oh, that's my piece," were heard time and again as one by one the classes paraded through the hall and entry way to admire their work and share their pride."Everyone had a piece of this," said Pope. "Even the teachers and staff did something. Their names were all written on the back of each piece and this is something that will be here and they can be proud of for a long, long time."Every three years each elementary school in the Winnisquam Regional School District has the opportunity to select an Artist in Residence. Pope and Cross are each in their third year with SCS so it was their first opportunity to work with the program and they put a lot of thought into what they wanted the students to experience. Cross said she wanted something that was not "static" and that the children could be physically involved with creating while Pope wanted a work of art that involved all and would become a part of their legacy at SCS. When the pair heard about Ragonese's work in other Artist in Residency programs across New England, both knew they had found what they were looking for.Ragonese could not be on hand for the big reveal last Thursday but he did send a message to the students, thanking them for their hard work, their thoughtfulness in all they contributed and their cooperation throughout the lengthy process.School Superintendent Rob Seaward dropped by to see all they had accomplished and was filled with praise for the project."Congratulations! This is a really neat concept. I wish I could buy one of these myself and bring it home," he said as he admired the two displays.Cross also pointed out to him that not only could students and staff enjoy the art each day, the figures hung outside the entrance were also visible to people traveling past the school."I really like the fact that the community can drive by and enjoy this all from the road, too," she said.For Pope, however, there was another meaning to the figures now adorning the walls, all made possible through the contributions of each member of their school community."Every single piece in this was important in making the artwork come together. That's how it is here with our students, too. The message is, when you're not here, there's a piece missing," she said. Winnisquam Echo Bear girls looking to build off successful 2020-21 campaign Locals earn football All-State honors Recent Donna Rhodes Winners of Alexandria Cons. Comm. Calendar Photo Contest announced 2021-Dec-09 Plymouth Holiday Parade kicks off the season 2021-Dec-09 Christmas Parade returns to Tilton this weekend 2021-Dec-02 Public input sought on renaming of local cemetery 2021-Dec-02 Founders reflect on Turkey Trots 40-year history 2021-Nov-24 PRHS students, staff organize fundraiser for student in need 2021-Nov-24 More... Thanks for visiting SalmonPress.com Anuradha Shukla By Express News Service Disinvestment efforts in the case of debt-ridden national carrier Air India may not have attracted any bidders, but investors are making a beeline for the companys valuable real estate assets. Especially its iconic Air India building at Nariman Point in Mumbai. Air India, which has accumulated a debt of close to Rs 50,000 crore, had first put up the leasehold rights of the land and the building up for sale last December. The company was expecting to raise about Rs 600-700 crore for the asset. However, the building has raised interest from many public sector organisations, including the Jawaharlal Nehru Port Trust (JNPT), the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), Life Insurance Corporation (LIC) and the Maharashtra government, which has joined the race with an offer of Rs 1,400 crore, almost double the amount Air India had expected to raise. The state-run JNPT and LIC have quoted Rs 1,375 crore and Rs 1,200 crore respectively. The offer from the RBI unknown, but reports say the central bank may want to take up the entire building and is willing to give advance lease rentals for 10 years with payment upfront. Talks are also on between Maharashtra Chief Secretary U P S Madan, Civil Aviation Secretary Pradeep Kharola and Air Indias managing director Ashwani Lohani for the building. Experts point out that there is more to the building than the real estate. The building is not just about real estate... it is an icon for Mumbai. Also, the location is an advantage. It is very difficult to get such a huge space in that area. No wonder offices are making a beeline for it. Only government entities were permitted to participate in both rounds, otherwise many corporate were eyeing that building, a senior executive of realty consultant Knight Frank said. Built in 1974, the building was designed by New York-based architect John Burgee. Located on Marine Drive, facing the Arabian Sea, the building is a landmark that has been a mainstay on Mumbais skyline. The structure was also the first centrally air-conditioned building which boasted an escalator in India. The building was also a witness to the infamous 1993 serial blasts, one of which took place in its basement. The blast killed 20 people and destroyed the Bank of Oman office, which was located just above the garage. The building has also served as the firms headquarters till 2013, before the head office was shifted to Delhi. By Express News Service BENGALURU: A 31-year-old Egyptian national has alleged that doctors at Apollo Hospital wrongly diagnosed her with cancer when she went to the hospital complaining of fever. She had to undergo chemotherapy nine times and surgery thrice. When she smelled something fishy about the hospitals treatment, she went to Kidwai and another hospital in Mumbai and learned that she was not suffering from cancer. She has lodged a complaint with Seshadripuram police demanding the immediate arrest of the doctors who treated her. The victim, Magda Haroun Ali, is a chemist working in Apollo Hospital in Seshadripuram. Ali came in contact with Dr Walid Albakali, a Yemenese national in 2014 when she was working as a chemist in Egypt. Albakali introduced himself as a doctor and in charge of the Arab region of the Apollo Group of hospitals in India and the proprietor of Medpro company in UAE. He offered Ali a job with good salary and privileges. Ali resigned and came to India in 2017. She joined Apollo in 2018. In September 2018, she fell ill and got admitted in the same hospital. After a series of tests, the doctors diagnosed her with cancer and claimed that she would not survive unless she undergoes the treatment they prescribed. Ali was heartbroken on hearing the news and underwent the treatment prescribed by the doctors. Within a short period of treatment, doctors at Apollo Hospital made her undergo chemotherapy nine times. She had to undergo surgery thrice, wherein they inserted a chemo port inside her body, said Alis advocate Ananth Naik. She had to spend lakhs to pay the medical bills. Later, she approached Kidwai Laboratory in Bengaluru and SRL in Mumbai To her shock, both reports stated that she was not suffering from cancer and both reports instructed Apollos doctors to immediately remove the chemo port. Ali contacted Apollo Hospital authorities and sought an explanation. Dr Albakali, in his mail, confessed that the diagnosis by Apollos doctors was not just wrong but they also should not have rushed to administer chemotherapy. The treatment triggered complications in Ali like bone pain, arthritis and chronic headache among others, said Naik. He further alleged that the hospital authorities tried to hide their medical negligence by accusing her of misappropriating the documents. Ali filed a complaint with police on April 9, and no action has been taken against the doctors. Ali wants the police to arrest the doctors, the Medical Council of India to cancel Apollo Hospitals recognition, `10 crore as compensation and the state government to take measures to send her back to Egypt, said Ananth Naik. However, in a statement, Apollo Hospital said, This is to clarify that there has been no negligence/mismanagement with regard to the diagnosis or patient care. The patient has been apprised of the condition and plan of treatment at all stages with her informed consent being taken. As per the hospitals policy, the case was discussed with a multidisciplinary team and expert opinions were taken. The team is greatly pained to hear such allegations despite having done well to manage an advanced ovarian tumour with fertility sparing treatment. By Express News Service BENGALURU: Expressing concern over illegal entry of foreign nationals, especially from Pakistan, and the issuance of documents to legalise the entry of such people, the Karnataka High Court on Wednesday directed the Intelligence Bureau (IB) to take steps to prevent such incidents from recurring. The court also directed the authorities concerned to file a report before it in a sealed cover with regard to the manner in which Ansarul Islam Mahallu Committee in Palakkad, had issued a marriage certificate dated March 30, 2016 certifying the marriage between Muhammed Shihab Thacharam Kunnath Kunnath and Sameera. The IB has also been asked to inform the court about the steps proposed to tackle such situations. Justice Aravind Kumar issued the directions after Foreigner Regional Registration Officer (FRRO) Labhu Ram, Bureau of Immigration, Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India, handed over a sealed cover to be looked into by the high court alone. Reading the contents of the sealed cover after opening it in presence of Labhu Ram, Union Government counsel Aditya Singh and government pleader Rachaiah, the court noted that the report/note would indicate appalling instances which have a direct bearing and impact on the national security. Hence, IB with any other agency as it deems fit shall coordinate with said agencies and take immediate steps to ensure that such instances do not recur in future, the court ordered. MUDITA Girotra By Express News Service NEW DELHI: Two mutilated carcasses of cows were found near the Sanjay Lake opposite Kotla village, leading to tense moments in East Delhis Mayur Vihar area on Wednesday. Taking no chances, a large number of police personnel were deployed in the area immediately after the incident was reported at 6 am. Amid rumours that the act was perpetrated to create communal unrest, the villagers and other public rushed to the area. The nearby roads became jam-packed in no time with the arrival of the police especially to prevent any untoward incident in the adjoining communally sensitive Trilokpuri area. Thankfully, the cows did not belong to anyone from Trilokpuri; otherwise their (Muslims) Rozas would have got affected, someone in the crowd said. The owner of the cows, Rai Singh, who runs a milk dairy in the village, said the killing had nothing to do with caste or religion. He alleged the involvement of a neighbour. The ground, where we tie our cattle belongs to the Delhi Development Authority (DDA), but my neighbour claims it belongs to him. He regularly complains about mosquitoes and flies breeding in the area. We also had an argument over the same about a month ago. He has been missing from his house for the past three days, but we are sure that he is involved in the incident, Singh told this newspaper. The cattle owners son Ravi said he had tied 15 cows at the ground the previous day. When I reached the spot today around 5 am, I found two cows missing. A neighbour told me that he saw the carcasses nearby. I found the carcasses and they were our cows, he added. The incident comes four days before the national capital is scheduled to go for the Lok Sabha polls on May 12.Deputy Commissioner of Police, Jasmeet Singh said a case was registered under The Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, the Delhi Cattle Prevention Act and Section 429 (mischief by killing or maiming cattle) of the Indian Penal Code. We had deployed about 70 police personnel in the area as a preventive measure, the police officer said, adding all possible angles were being probed. DMC writes to police chief Taking a serious note of the killing and the subsequent agitation of saffron elements in front of the Pandav Nagar Police Station, Delhi Minorities Commission (DMC) chairman Dr Zafarul-Islam Khan wrote to the city police chief warning that miscreants may try to use the incident to start a riot in the area. This, Khan said, might lead to polarisation in the forthcoming elections. The DMC chairman asked the police commissioner to ensure peace in the area and arrest the criminals involved in the killing. By Express News Service NEW DELHI: Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Wednesday claimed the Narendra Modi government plans to demolish unauthorised colonies in Delhi and then hand over the land to builders. We were laying sewer lanes in these colonies. When the work started on the ground, I got to know through some Central government employees that the Modi government is planning to demolish all unauthorised colonies in Delhi. They want to demolish the colonies and give the land to big builders and rich people and take away all land, he said. About 70 per cent of Delhis population resides in unauthorised colonies, where will they go? We have been pressured by the Centre not to invest money in unauthorised colonies and we have also been told by government officials that the BJP is planning to demolish all unauthorised colonies once it comes to power. Delhi BJP chief Manoj Tiwari has confessed that the Modi government has such a plan, he said. Recently Manoj Tiwari in public conceded that the Modi government would demolish unauthorised colonies and replace them with high-rise buildings, in which these residents will be given flats. Kejriwal assured the people of not allowing the BJP to carry out its plan. The AAP will develop these colonies and provide them with all basic and good facilities in these colonies, he said. Roads, drains, streetlights and parks will be built there. Drinking water will be provided. I want to make it clear that wherever any one lives in these colonies, they will get all the facilities there only. A Giza criminal court acquitted on Thursday former interior minister Habib El-Adly and eight other top ministry officials in their retrial on charges of embezzling public funds. The court also sentenced one defendant to three years imprisonment and ordered that he pay restitution of EGP 62 million, and dismissed him from his job. In April 2017, a Cairo criminal court convicted El-Adly and 10 other codefendants on charges of embezzling interior ministry funds amounting to EGP 2.38 billion. At the time, El-Adly received seven years in prison and six other defendants were sentenced to five years. El-Adly and nine others were ordered to pay EGP 529 million in restitution and were fined the same amount, in addition to the dismissal of all defendants from their jobs. However, upon appeal, the Court of Cassation overturned the sentence and ordered a retrial. Search Keywords: Short link: Ritwika Mitra By Express News Service NEW DELHI: Jahan is new to Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) and India. But, this is her home now. The anti-national tirades on JNU students are a prime worry for this Turkmenistan girl at the moment. Sitting at a dhaba in the campus after her classes, Jahan says, this is her solitude. This is also the time when the postgraduate student of History reflects on Indian politics. There are jokes that go around in the department that JNU students will not get married as they are anti-national. Outsiders misunderstand us. This is a place where the people stand united to demand their rights. In 2016, former JNUSU president Kanhaiya Kumar was arrested on sedition charge, after allegations that he raised anti-national slogans at a protest. That was the genesis of the anti-national tirade. Kanhaiya is now contesting from Bihars Begusarai on a CPI ticket. Students feel, if elected, he should actively put forth the issues plaguing the varsity, including the muzzling of dissent, to the fore. He (Kanhaiya) should take care of JNUs concerns. After all, it is JNU that gave him a political face, said Nayeem, a Masters student in Urdu from Bihar. The institution is under attack because of the potential of movement- building here, said Parul, a research scholar of Visual Studies. Another research scholar Shatavisha asserts that the notion that JNU is an island or a Utopian world, which many people believe in, is not true. Students say the Centre, instead of addressing the primary concerns ailing India, is trying to deflect the peoples attention and clamping down on dissent and free-thinking. They do not speak about the real issues. There is an uncomfortable silence on issues that matter. In our campus, there is an attempt to do away with the dhabas that have been here for years and to bring corporate establishments. What earlier cost `5 will eventually cost `20, making many commodities unaffordable for students, said N Sai Balaji, JNUSU president. The students add that reducing the functioning times of dhabas, privatisation of campus, bringing technology courses without infrastructure, doing away with dhobis and bringing laundry services do not resonate with JNUs character. Hence, for a significant number of students, the fight is against the BJP, its policies, politics and subtle and not-so-subtle ways of trying to change the varsity. We now even need permission to protest. If this is not fascism, what is? asks Arunkumar from Tamil Nadu.Vikas from the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP), however, claimed it was because of the Modi government that attacks on the Right wing groups are on the decline. Earlier, the Left parties used to constantly attack us. Bitupan, originally from Assam, will never vote for the BJP. But, he is not completely against the implementation of the National Register of Citizens. I want equilibrium of views. I am not for the Right or the Left. I want development. There is little performance at present. But I also want my identity to be intact. I want to be a proud Assamese, says the Sociology student. For Jitendra, a student of Korean studies and a resident of Bihars Motihari, his obvious choice is the AAP due to the transformation of government schools. In the end what matters is what I am provided. If I need a scholarship, will the Centre be able to provide it? The consensus among most students is they would vote against the BJP for ignoring matters of higher education, employment and health. Politics can be tricky I am for truce, Jahan rounds it up. By PTI NEW DELHI: The NHRC has issued a notice to the Delhi government and city police commissioner over the death of two labourers while cleaning a septic tank at an under-construction house here. On Tuesday, two contractual workers died and three others were hospitalised after apparently inhaling toxic gas when they were cleaning the septic tank in northwest Delhi's Rohini area. Due to negligence by authorities, a large number of people are dying every year in such painful incidents, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) said in a statement issued Thursday. The rights panel said it has taken "suo motu cognisance of media reports that two labourers, died while three others are battling for life after they entered an unauthorised 10-foot-deep septic tank at an under-construction house in Prem Nagar, Rohini, Delhi, on May 7. "In spite of specific laws and guidelines, such incidents are happening," the commission said. The NHRC said it has condemned as "uncivilised" the attitude of some people who gathered at the place of incident, but did not come forward to help the victims, terming them "untouchables". The commission has issued notices to the Delhi chief secretary and police commissioner, seeking a detailed report within six weeks. It has also asked the Delhi government to inform whether it had issued any guidelines prohibiting unauthorised construction and cleaning of septic tanks, and, if so, why its strict compliance is not being ensured. The NHRC said, "It has directed the Delhi government to chalk out appropriate instructions to deal with the issue and inform." The incident took place at a semi-built plot owned by Gulam Mustafa in Rohini's Bhagya Vihar area, according to police. He had started construction of a house a few days ago. Mustafa and a mason, named Rambir, had allegedly asked the two labourers to clean the tank, but they refused as they were not trained, police had said. However, they were blackmailed that they would not get paid three days of wages and were forced to enter the tank, a senior police official had said on Tuesday. The commission has observed that apparently there were multiple reasons which might have caused the death of the two persons. Had the septic tank not been constructed in an unauthorised manner and had the labourers been not forced to go inside the septic tank without any safety gear or prior training, two precious lives could have been saved, it said. "The victims were rushed to the Sanjay Gandhi Hospital where Deepak and Ganesh were declared brought dead while three others were said to be critical. Locals have also reportedly, alleged that when the victims were pulled out of the tank, they were breathing but no one touched them saying they were untouchables," the NHRC statement said. Mustafa was arrested on Wednesday. Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has met the family members of the victims and promised a compensation of Rs 10 lakh to the next of kin of the deceased. By Express News Service KOCHI: On April 27, the Ernakulam Rural Police issued an alert to the hotel and lodge owners in the district regarding mandatory measures to be taken to ensure security, after the blasts in Sri Lanka. Three days later, two men found in suspicious circumstances were arrested from a hotel in Fort Kochi; it was later found the men were Punjab cops absconding for siphoning money from Bishop Franco Mulakkal's aide. This coincidental discovery has derived the general consensus from people that the high alert status was a good and necessary decision. However, with a heavy inflow of foreign tourists every year, Express takes a look if the increased safety protocol has affected the tourism in Fort Kochi. "We haven't been particularly affected by the alert, because April is usually offseason. Protocols enforced is not something new in the hotel. We had already enforced the protocols even before the police notice," says Jerin Joseph, front desk manager at Hotel Forte Kochi. Some hotels also recorded a dropping number of tourist check-ins. "Even though it is not peak season, there is definitely a drop, both with regards to domestic travellers and foreigners. The hotels would have been fully booked now for the Thrissur Pooram but the bookings are minimal this year, says Vineetha Willie, manager at the Old Harbor Hotel. Mohammed Jishad of Park Avenue Hotel says: "The alerts have hit the hospitality sector drastically. Both local and foreign crowds are scared and dont want to take the risk. Had the police been more undercover in their approach, the tourist flow wouldn't have been disrupted." However, the presence of the police authorities seemed to ease the minds of tourists. Fleur Bernard, a French tourist vacationing in Fort Kochi, says: The police have been very helpful. We didnt know about the alert and theyve been helping us with security throughout our trip. Their mere presence makes us feel safe, in spite of the apparent threat. The alert has also put the local residents on their toes. "I was even scared to send my mother for the Edappally church fest last week," says a local resident. By Express News Service KOCHI: A company incubated under the Kerala Startup Mission (KSUM) has come out with two new products for smart travel: An Android-backed bus-ticketing machine, which is Indias first-of-its-kind, and another device that enables tracking and locating vehicles. Launched by VST Mobility Solutions Pvt Ltd, 'MOBGO VST0507B' is the countrys first Android-backed ticketing machine certified by the Central Institute of Road Transport, while 'Smart Eclipse VST0507C' is the first device that supports NavIC/IRNSS from Kerala to be approved by the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI), according to the List of ARAI-approved Vehicle Tracking Systems as per AIS 140 as on May 3, 2019. Highly user-friendly, MOBGO VST0507B has a 5.5-inch touchscreen enabled with NFC technology for cashless journey using closed/open loop smart cards, the company said. As for Smart Eclipse VST0507C, the device has been launched in the wake of a government rule that mandates the installation of a tracking device which supports NavIC/IRNSS from April this year. NavIC/IRNSS is an independent regional navigation satellite system developed by India. The device has been developed as per the latest standards for AIS 140: Intelligent Transport Systems. Hailing VST's achievement, KSUM CEO Saji Gopinath said: This is a remarkable feat. The company continues to set new standards for the transport industry. We look forward to seeing more startups creating history through the state governments Make in Kerala initiative, said Gopinath. VST, as a start-up focusing on mobility solutions, has developed these products with its own R&D and manufacturing facility at Kerala Technology Innovation Zone, Kalamassery. The company is planning to expand the market with new investors backing them for production and international presence, its top officials revealed. As for the Android-based ticketing solutions, the startup has already received new orders from Qatar, Saudi Arabia and a few European countries. By Express News Service With a vast coastline and danger of terror elements sneaking in though sea route, the State police department has put the entire coastal area on alert. Police wings of districts that share borders with Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Telangana and Odisha have been told to be vigilant. Creating safe environment for foreign nationals at hotels and tourist places in the State was discussed during a review of the security preparedness of the police force by Director General of Police RP Thakur on Wednesday. Places of worship should be kept under strict surveillance, the DGP instructed his officers. The review comes in the wake of blasts in Sri Lanka on April 21. Thakur, through a video conference with SPs of all the districts and Commissioners of Police of various cities, sent a clear and loud message to them to maintain high alert in the State, particularly in coastal areas. He also stressed the need for checking vehicles entering the State and hotels that could become possible targets of terrorist attacks. Though senior officials denied that they received any specific terror alert , it is learnt that the DGP convened the meeting in view of the beginning of Ramzan, counting of votes on May 23 and other festivals the State is set to celebrate in coming months. The meeting also took stock of the left wing extremist activities. Speaking to media later, Thakur said they reviewed the preparedness of the police force and security arrangements in view of the recent terror attacks in Sri Lanka. Instructing the officials to beef up security at all airports, seaports, coastal areas and keep vigil on the movement of suspicious persons, he wanted all unit officers to make extra security arrangements at all central government offices and Special Economic Zones. The DGP wanted bomb detection teams to press into service DFMDs, HHMDs and sniffer dogs to undertake random checks at busy areas. There is a need to keep ready armed counter action plan teams and Octopus to face any situation, the DGP added. Reviewing the security arrangements for counting day, Thakur asked police officials to make additional bandobust at sensitive centres. By Express News Service Actor Ashish Sharma essays the role of a transgender in his maiden production, Khejdi. The film, which premiered at the Kashish Queer Film Festival in 2018, has been selected for the fifth Annual DFW South Asian Film Festival to be held from May 15 to May 19. Set in a remote village in Rajasthan, the film follows a transgender child named Khejdi, raised in isolation by an Ayurvedic doctor. After eighteen years of zero social contact, Khejdi starts exploring the outside world, and is faced with questions about gender, sex and identity. While writing and filming for Khejdi, I got to know the thought process of the society and trans people equally. Its got to be a two-way street the society needs to be accepting and accommodating, but even the transgender people need to embrace their identity with grace, says Ashish. During the process of shooting the film, we saw the real conditions transgender persons live in, the atrocities, the discrimination and the myths that surround them. It shook us from within. We knew its time we told a story from the trans peoples point-of-view. Archana T. Sharma, who co-owns Rachayita Films with her husband Ashish, adds, While travelling the globe with our film Khejdi, we realized that everyone understood and connected with the story, be it audiences in Dhaka or Germany. With the same thought we are headed for the films North American premiere at DFW South Asian Film Festival. We still have a lot of travel left for the film, post which we shall bring it to the Indian sphere. Namita Bajpai By Express News Service AYODHYA: The workshop adjacent to the temple site in Ayodhya, which is a prominent part of the visitors itinerary, evokes curiosity with its model of the proposed grand Ram temple. But even as sculptors from Gujarat and Rajasthan carve out motifs on huge shilas, the temple issue seems to have been forgotten somewhere in the poll cacophony in the land of Lord Rama. The temple can never be on the backburner. Since the Supreme Court has set up a panel for mediation, its better to have a little patience, said Sharad Sharma, regional spokesman of VHP. On the other hand, despite pained by Modi giving the makeshift temple a miss during his visit to Ayodhya for a rally on May 1, former BJP MP and Babri demolition accused Ram Vilas Vedanti said, If any government could build the temple, it is the BJP government. Not only Vedanti, other saints and seers, including Nritya Gopal Das of Ramjanma Bhoomi Nyas, Dharam Das of Nirmohi Akhada and Satyendra Das, head priest of the makeshift temple, believe that the PM should have had a darshan.He goes to every temple. Why miss Ram Lallas janmabhoomi? a seer wondered. Iqbal Ansari, one of the litigants from the Muslim side in Ayodhya title suit, feels that Modi government had worked for sabka saath sabka viaks. Congress betrayed Muslims for 60-70 years. The shrine was unlocked during Congress regime and the mosque was demolished when Congress was at the Centre, said Ansari. His claim, however, was rejected by another litigant Haji Mehboob, who felt that it was the Kalyan Singh government which facilitated the demolition. Kalyan Singh did not honour the affidavit which he had submitted before the Supreme Court to safeguard the structure, Mehboob said. However, other issues like development and unemployment are equally vital poll determinants here, besides caste, which the SP-BSP alliance is relying on. Anurag Vaishya, a member of Spic Macay, feels the next government should focus on the development of Ayodhya, which is being projected as a major destination for religious tourism. Though the proposed airport in Ayodhya will increase connectivity with the world, industry, especially hospitality, institutions of higher education and other avenues should also be developed in Faizabad parliamentary constituency to improve the employment scenario, said Anurag. Trader Giridhar Agarwal claimed demonetisation or GST didnt any adverse impact on businessmen in the temple town. A new pair of shoes pinches initially. With time, it settles comfortably on the feet. Initially, there were some glitches as people were learning the nuances of GST, but now everything is streamlined. For honest traders, its good, said Agarwal, footwear shop owner in Chowk area. Refusing to divulge his electoral choice, Ramesh Kumar, who supplies flowers to over 4,000 temples in the city, believes whoever is elected should pay attention to the restoration of dilapidated temples, the heritage of Ayodhya. Many echoed his sentiment. The temple town is part of Faizabad Lok Sabha constituency. Faizabad district ceased to exist after being renamed Ayodhya by the Yogi Adityanath government. Comprising five assembly constituencies - Rudauli, Milkipur, Dariyabad, Bikapur and Ayodhya - the seat has not been a BJP bastion despite firebrand saffron leader Vinay Katiyar being elected thrice in the wake of the Ram Temple movement. Sitting BJP MP Lallu Singh, a kar sewak who was part of the 1992 Babri Masjid demolition, was elected as many as five times from the Ayodhya assembly seat. This time, he is in the LS poll fray against Samajwadi Partys Anand Sen, son of Mitra Sen Yadav, former Faizabad MP, and Congresss Nirmal Khatri, who has also won the seat twice. Although Sen has the support of Yadavs and Muslims of Faizabad, an old rape and murder case haunts him. As one moves towards the famous Guptar Ghat along the banks of Saryu, around 50 labourers are busy restoring the place where Lord Ram is believed to have taken Jal Samadhi (watery grave). People know Ayodhya only for being the birth place of Lord Rama. Very few are aware that Ayodhya is also the place where he met his end. Guptar Ghat is that place. No government paid attention to its maintenance and beautification till Yogi Adityanath became chief minister, said Anshul Tiwari, a 28-year-old Faizabad university graduate. Arshad, said, Those who dont vote for the BJP are also desh bhakts (patriots). As one moves towards Faizabad city, Santosh Yadav, who works in Noida asks, Where are the jobs? If Modi factor seems to move Ayodhya and Faizabad, the alliance has support of 13% Yadavs, 15% Muslims and 4% Dalits, cumulatively more than the 29% Upper Caste Hindu voters. The BJP also has its eyes on 13% non-Yadav OBCs and 10% MBCs. By PTI BANKURA: TMC supremo Mamata Banerjee's "slap" remark against Narendra Modi resonated in battleground West Bengal on Thursday, while she shot another barb at the prime minister, saying he will have to do a "100 squats holding his ears" if he failed to prove that her candidates were part of the coal mafia. The West Bengal chief minister bristled with anger at Modi's allegation at an election rally where he said TMC leaders were involved in illegal coal mining. She said she will withdraw party nominees from all the 42 Lok Sabha seats if even one was found involved in such activity. "And if you (Modi) have lied, you will have to do 100 squats holding your ears," she told a rally in Bankura, a couple of hours after the prime minister addressed an election meeting in the same Lok Sabha constituency. ALSO READ | Discontent sweeping Jangalmahal, likely to push BJP ahead of TMC She was responding to Modi's allegation that TMC leaders are making money from illegal open cast coal mines, while labourers are not getting their wages. At his rally, the prime minister raked up the "tight slap" remark made by Banerjee on Tuesday. "I heard that Mamata didi wants to slap Modi; I respect you, call you didi (elder sister). Your slap will be like blessing to me," Modi said with a hint of sarcasm. Furious at being repeatedly termed as a party of 'tolabaj' (extortionists) by the prime minister, the TMC supremo had said, "Narendra Modi should get a tight slap of democracy." Banerjee Thursday insisted she never said she will slap Modi. FOLLOW OUR FULL ELECTION COVERAGE HERE "He is saying that I have said I will slap him. Arre, I spoke about the slap of democracy. Try to understand the language. "Why should I slap you? I am not that kind of a person. What I understand is democracy. Slap of democracy means the mandate people will give by casting their votes," the Trinamool Congress supremo said. Responding to Modi's coal mafia jibe at TMC leaders, Banerjee said the coal ministry that controls the mines functions under the central government and the mines are guarded by the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF). "People belonging to the BJP are involved in the illegal business of coal," she shot back. Banerjee claimed she is in possession of a pen drive, and that if she makes it public, "many secrets about cattle smuggling and coal mafia will tumble out of the closet." She claimed the pen drive contains information about a central minister and a BJP MP "dealing in cattle smuggling". The West Bengal chief minister said the allegations about the involvement of TMC leaders in chit fund scams have not been proved. She also warned Modi against speaking about her family. "Don't talk about my family, I am alone and the people are my family," she said. Speaking in Bankura, Modi had said, "She (Banerjee) is not interested in the betterment of the state, but in that of her family, nephew and tolabaj (extortionists) of her party." Banerjee's nephew Abhishek is a sitting Lok Sabha MP and TMC candidate for the Diamond Harbour seat. Banerjee, without naming the prime minister or BJP president Amit Shah, said the country is being run by-- Duryodhan and Dushshasan--the ignoble characters of epic 'Mahabharata'. By ANI NEW DELHI: The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) on Wednesday took suo motu cognisance of a case where a woman was allegedly gang-raped by five men while her husband was beaten up by a group of five men in Thanagaji area of Alwar district in Rajasthan on April 26. A video shot by the alleged accused of the gruesome incident, reportedly, went viral on social media. Reportedly, despite having registered an FIR in the matter, the police did not take any action for four days because of elections on May 6. ALSO READ: Alwar SP removed, government releases interim relief of Rs 4.12 lakh for victim The Commission has also observed that the contents of the media reports, if true, amount to the gross violation of the human rights of the victim woman and her husband. "Accordingly, it has issued notices to the Chief Secretary and the Director General of Police, Rajasthan calling for a report in the matter, within six weeks including action taken against the guilty and relief/ counselling provided to the victim woman," the NHRC said in a release. "The Commission would also like to know whether provisions of the SC/ST Act, 1995 have been applied in this case for action against the guilty and statutory relief to the victim," it added. However, state Chief Minister Gehlot yesterday asked DGP Kapil Garg to monitor the probe into the heinous crime. Police have arrested one person so far. As many as 14 teams have been constituted to nab other absconding culprits. ALSO READ: Three arrested in Alwar gangrape case, two still absconding Reportedly, according to the police, the victim and her husband were going from village Lalwadi to Taalvraksh on a bike, when at about five men aged between 20-25 years, stopped them and took the couple to deserted sand dunes. The husband was allegedly assaulted and tied up while the woman was gang-raped. The culprits, reportedly, also threatened the couple not to report the matter to the police or they will make the video, public. The accused also demanded money from the couple which was given to them but later, when they again demanded money, the couple reported the matter to the police on May 2. (ANI) By PTI NEW DELHI: The Balakot air strikes on the Jaish-e-Muhammed terror training camp in Pakistan was the "biggest" anti-terrorist operation in the history of India, Union Home minister Rajnath Singh said in an election rally in south Delhi on Thursday. The senior BJP leader also slammed the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government in Delhi alleging that it did not fulfil its promises made to the people after coming to power in 2015. ALSO READ| Take money and gifts from other parties but vote for AAP: Arvind Kejriwal Singh lambasted the opposition parties for seeking to know the exact number of terrorists killed in the Indian Air Force strikes, days after the Pulwama attack in south Kashmir which claimed the loves of 40 CRPF personnel. "They (opposition parties) say the air force should have counted the bodies. Being the home minister and having solid intelligence input, I can say with full conviction that the Balakot air strikes was the biggest anti-terrorist operation in the history of India," Singh claimed. FOLLOW OUR ELECTION COVERAGE HERE He also asserted the air strikes was the biggest anti-terror operation in the world. India under Prime Minister Narendra Modi has stopped sending dossiers to Pakistan after terror attacks and now responds directly. "The days of sending dossiers are gone, now we will ensure action against the terrorists," he told the rally in Badarpur area. Citing a report by an Italian journalist, he said 170 terrorists were killed in Balakot while several others were admitted to the local hospitals for treatment. Seeking vote for the Bharatiya Janata Party candidate from South Delhi, Ramesh Bidhuri, Singh said his victory will ensure Modi again becomes Prime Minister of the country. ALSO READ| Congress weakening our terror fight: Rajnath Singh Hitting out at the ruling AAP in Delhi, he said: "There would be no crisis of water, electricity, schools and colleges, if it (AAP) had fulfilled its promises made to the people before coming to power. Delhi will develop only after the AAP is finished in the next Assembly elections in the national capital," Singh said. He also slammed the Congress for its poll promise to scrap the sedition law, saying the BJP will strengthen it after coming back to power at the Centre. The image of India has been strengthened by the Modi government and the country is on the path of becoming 'dhanwan and Balwan' (rich and strong) nation, Singh said. ABC/Randy HolmesMetallica's show in Milan, Italy Wednesday featured an extra special guest: a whole lot of rain. The wet conditions led to a briefly scary moment when guitarist Kirk Hammett slipped and fell on stage during a guitar solo. During a performance of the Hardwired...to Self-Destruct song "Moth into Flame," Hammett was jamming the solo while operating his signature wah-wah pedal. Thanks to the rain, the pedal had become more slippery, and when he went to stomp on it, he lost his footing and fell backwards. Luckily, Hammett recovered quickly, and got back on his feet while smiling. Hammett himself posted footage of the slip on his Twitter. "I slipped on my wet wah pedal," he wrote. "It rained so much I felt like I was playing guitar in the shower." Ever the good sport, Hammett also shared a video capturing the fall in slow-motion. At this point, falling on stage is nearly a Metallica tradition. Hammett took a tumble during a show in Sioux Falls, South Dakota last fall, while frontman James Hetfield hit the deck in Amsterdam in 2017. Metallica's current European tour continues Friday in Switzerland. The metal legends will be back in the U.S. in September to play two shows in San Francisco with the San Francisco Symphony to celebrate the 20th anniversary of their 1999 live album S&M. Copyright 2019, ABC Radio. All rights reserved. The inauguration of a dozen projects in Ismailia and Sinai heralds a new development era for the peninsula Twelve major development projects, in central Sinai and Ismailia governorate, were inaugurated earlier this week by President Abdel-Fattah Al-Sisi via video conference. The projects include four tunnels in Ismailia and Port Said connecting Sinai with mainland Egypt; the first two phases of the three-phase New Ismailia City, a 2,828-feddan urban centre which when complete will accommodate up to 250,000 people; a water purification plant; fish farming and processing infrastructure; traffic axes; the floating Sarabium Bridge in Ismailia and the Ahmed Omar Shabrawi Bridge in Suez. The projects, which were begun in July 2016, are part of the overall development plan for Sinai. More than 3,000 engineers, technicians and labourers took part in their construction, at a cost of LE12 billion. The government has earmarked LE275 billion to develop Sinai and lay the foundations for a secure future. The inauguration of the projects coincided with the 37th anniversary of the liberation of Sinai. The role of the army in such projects, if any, is a supervisory and management one, President Al-Sisi said, responding to criticism that the army is crowding out the private sector from development contracts. We wanted a single supervisory authority to guarantee projects are finished on time, and help solve any problems civil companies might face in their work. The Armed Forces supervise the systematic implementation of ideas and plans to avoid the mistakes of an ad hoc approach, he said. Presidential Spokesman Bassam Radi told the press the tunnels under the Suez Canal South Port Said, North Ismailia and North Suez are wide enough to allow the transit of 2,000 cars per hour and transit the canal at a depth of 70 and 53 metres. The tunnels are a key component of plans to develop and urbanise Sinai and will link the peninsula to the rest of the country. Currently Sinai is connected to mainland Egypt via the Al-Salam Bridge in Al-Qantara and the Ahmed Hamdi Tunnel north of Suez. The additional links will facilitate movement in and out of Sinai and significantly shorten transit times, essential for the success of the Suez Canal Economic Zone. The 60,000 sq km Sinai Peninsula has attracted little interest from local and international investors despite the huge potential it offers, says Magdi Sobhi, an economist at Al-Ahram Centre for Political and Strategic Studies. These projects will help reverse that trend. Development plans seek to alter the geography and demography of Sinai. The goal is to engineer an increase in the population of Sinai from 400,000 to three million within four years, he says. The government hopes to transform the central and northern sections of Sinai into a hub of agricultural, industrial and mining production. The plan is easy to implement given the rich resources present in Sinai, said Sobhi. Most of Sinais land is suitable for agriculture and the peninsula contains a wealth of mineral resources. Currently development is restricted to the edges of the peninsula, in the south where there are the tourist resorts of Sharm El-Sheikh, Taba, Nuweiba, Dahab, Ras Sedr on the western coast and Arish city in the north. Tourism is one of the main sources of hard currency in the Egyptian economy, along with Suez Canal revenues, workers remittances, and is an important source of employment. In 2018 the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) reported that the tourism sector contributed 11.9 per cent of Egypts GDP, a figure expected to grow by 5.4 per cent in 2019, and that the sector accounted for 9.5 per cent 2.5 million of jobs in Egypt. Developing Sinai is essential for the security and stability of Egypt, says Nagui Shohoud of the Higher Nasser Military Academy. In the past there have been several attempts to alter the character of the peninsula, beginning with the Tripartite Aggression in 1956 and including the 1967 War between Egypt and Israel and subsequent attempts by the then Israel defence minister Moshe Dayan to secure the allegiance of Sinais Bedouins, and machinations by the Muslim Brotherhood to turn Sinai into an Islamic State. While Egypt had intended to develop the peninsula since its full liberation in April 1982 somehow the plans were never implemented. Now, almost four decades on, and following the attempt to create an Islamic state in Sinai, development is finally being accorded the priority it deserves. Gradually, says Shohoud, Sinais isolation will end and it will be merged with the rest of Egypts governorates. According to Shohoud, it is essential the peninsula builds a comprehensive, functioning economy. Egypt is in dire need of Sinais wealth of mineral deposits and crops, he says, and the tunnels are essential to developing these resources. The development process has been lent additional urgency by the ongoing Comprehensive Operation Sinai, the counter-terrorism campaign launched in 2018 targeting Islamist insurgents and criminal activity that undermine national security and stability. *A version of this article appears in print in the 9 May, 2019 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly under the headline: Building Sinai Search Keywords: Short link: Namita Bajpai By Express News Service LUCKNOW: Prime Minister Narendra Modi affected a tactical shift in Eastern UP by saying that under the NDA regime the terror-tag on Azamgarh had been wiped away forever. Campaigning in Azamgarh, the redoubtable bastion of the Samajwadi Party, which elected Mulayam Singh Yadav withstanding the Modi wave in 2014 and a fresh candidate in former CM Akhilesh Yadav, the PM attempted to soothe minority feelings in favour of BJP candidate, Bhojpuri superstar Dinesh Lal Yadav Nirahua. Azamgarh today is free of the taint of terrorism, he said. Blaming the SP and BSP governments for incubating Azamgarhs terror networks and giving it an image of a terror hub, Modi said, Azamgarh was cheated and bullied by previous governments. Each terror act was linked to it. Post-2014, why have all that changed?" he asked, claiming, It is because of NDA which worked against terrorism on a priority keeping national interest supreme while rising above petty considerations of caste and community. FOLLOW OUR FULL ELECTION COVERAGE HERE He reiterated the anti-terror resolve and said, This is new India which will not only pursue terrorists deep into their own territory but will also finish them there. Attacking SP-BSP for their alleged caste politics, Modi claimed that earlier welfare schemes and even basic amenities like electricity were limited to specific castes in UP. That changed under the BJP dispensation. This government did not provide welfare schemes on caste basis. We have worked for sabka saath, sabka vikas rising above everything else, he said, urging voters not to get swayed by caste politics. Reiterating his mahamilawati jibe at the Gathbandhan, he said, Coalition governments have led the country to instability, anarchy and corruption, besides recurrent elections, while cautioning them against the political motives of groups which were cobbled to grab power by any means. Manish Anand By Express News Service NEW DELHI: With polling for two phases yet to be concluded, BJP leadership is increasingly engrossed in counting gains and losses. However, even as the party leadership is busy assessing how many votes will land in its kitty, it has taken a grim view of General Secretary Ram Madhav purportedly claiming that the saffron party would need allies to cross the halfway mark in 17th Lok Sabha. Madhavs speculation on BJPs likely number post election was uncalled for, which hasnt gone well with the top leadership of the party. He struck a divergent note at a time when our party chief Amit Shah is reiterating that the party will sail past the 282 mark it touched in 2014, said a senior BJP functionary. A cross-section of BJP leaders, including Union ministers, didnt miss adding a backdrop to Madhavs purported speculation, saying that hes increasingly getting marginalised in party affairs. Madhavs turf in Northeast has largely been usurped by Assam minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, while his handling of party affairs in Jammu and Kashmir has been questioned within the party, a source said. FOLLOW OUR ELECTION COVERAGE HERE Yet, party leaders are analysing polling trends and assessments within the party to project the likely number of votes for the BJP. The polling percentage, across five phases, so far, has been roughly about 1% more than 2014. This is open to interpretation. But polling percentage trends in past elections show that a 5% and above swing indicate vote against the incumbent, while voting at par could mean an endorsement of the prevailing regime, a senior BJP functionary said. The BJP leaders stressed that there are 8.5 crore (almost 10%) new voters in the ongoing polls, who would influence the outcome of the poll. There was an upswing of 8.23% in 2014 elections, which powered the BJP into registering a majority in the Lok Sabha. The Manmohan Singh government retained power in 2009, with the voting percentage almost the same (58.07% in 2004 and 58.21% in 2009). There is no definitive trend, but indicative precedents in the poll data, the BJP leader said. Madhav increasingly marginalised A cross-section of BJP leaders, including Union ministers, feel that party general secretary Ram Madhav is increasingly getting marginalised in party affairs. Many reckon his turf, Northeast, has been usurped by Assam strongman Himanta Biswa Sarma By PTI BHOPAL: Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Thursday described Rajiv Gandhi a martyr and said though the BJP respects him, that doesn't mean it won't talk about the "misrule and corruption" of his government. She was backing Prime Minister Narendra Modi on his claim that the Gandhi family used the Navy's iconic aircraft carrier INS Viraat as its "personal taxi" when Rajiv Gandhi headed the Congress government in 1980s, to which the grand old party has raised strong objection. ALSO READ| Congress' Divya Spandana slams PM Modi for taking Canadian Akshay Kumar aboard INS Sumitra Sitharaman claimed the issue related to the alleged misuse of INS Viraat by the Gandhi family had been in public domain for long and maintained that two leading national news magazines had written about it at length in 2013. "The details regarding INS Viraat is in public domain. All know about it," the defence minister told reporters. Sitharaman was replying to a query on Modi's claim that the Navy was made to host the Gandhi family and Rajiv Gandhi's in-laws, and a helicopter was also deployed in their service. "INS Viraat was insulted by using it as a personal taxi. This happened when Rajiv Gandhi and his family was out for a 10-day vacation. FOLLOW OUR ELECTION COVERAGE HERE INS Viraat was deployed for securing our maritime boundary. But it was diverted to take the Gandhi family which was out for a vacation," Modi had said at a poll rally in Delhi on Wednesday. Rajiv Gandhi was the prime minister from 1984 to 1989. "INS Viraat crew members have also accepted that Rajiv Gandhi, his family and his wife's family were ferried in the warship," Sitharaman claimed. The defence minister alleged that the Congress had in the past misused the Army, Navy and the Air Force, and is now accusing the BJP of politicising the defence forces. ALSO READ| Rajiv Gandhi used INS Viraat for official visit: Congress Asserting that Rajiv Gandhi was a prime minister who later became a martyr, Sitharaman said, "We respect him fully, but this does not mean we won't talk about his government's misrule, corruption and policies. Whenever we talk about the escape of (Union Carbide CEO) Warren Anderson, the prime accused in the Bhopal gas tragedy, the mention of the Rajiv Gandhi government is bound to be made. What is wrong in it?" she posed in reply to a question. Sitharaman said some of Modi's recent statements were a reaction to repeated attacks on him by the Congress and other opposition parties. "The way the opposition parties and their leaders were hurling abuses at the prime minister, he, after collecting (relevant information), was paying them back," she said. The Congress doesn't have any issue and hence it is using abusive language against Modi, Sitharaman claimed, adding Rahul Gandhi was making baseless allegations regarding the Rafale jet deal to sully Modi's image. The Congress president has repeatedly hurled "chowkidar chor hai" (the watchman is a thief) jibe at Modi to target him over the Rafale deal. ALSO READ| PM Modi's claim of Rajiv Gandhi's 'vacation' on INS Viraat wrong: Ex-Navy chief L Ramdas Asserting that the multi-crore fighter aircraft deal is in the country's interest, Sitharaman claimed that the CAG, the Supreme Court and other agencies have established no wrongdoing in the mega defence contract with France. She said Rahul Gandhi was in a catch-22 situation after raising the Rafale deal issue and alleged that he was now speaking "lies" knowingly and out of compulsion to keep the issue alive. Asked about claims of surgical strikes under the UPA government, the defence minister said, "I won't comment on surgical strike claims of the pre-Modi government. If surgical strikes took place earlier, why the then government did not reveal it? Now, when we have carried out the surgical strike why are they indulging in me too?" she asked. She said the people of India had given the BJP a clear mandate in the 2014 Lok Sabha polls and Modi laid a strong foundation on it to take the country forward. Respect for India has grown in the comity of nations in the last five years, Sitharaman said. "The Modi government has adopted a zero tolerance policy on terrorism. We are thriving on the strong foundation and every Indian has faith in Modi. People are feeling absolutely secure under the Modi government," she added. By PTI HYDERABAD: Senior Congress leader M Veerappa Moily Wednesday said there was nothing wrong in TRS President and Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao's efforts to forge a federal front of regional parties, and saw the move as being against the BJP-led NDA. He also claimed that the Congress would get around 200 seats in the Lok Sabha elections, emerging as the leading party among the opposition. "Make state-by-state (poll) analysis and you will definitely come to conclusion that the NDA government will fall", the former Union Minister said, adding a conglomeration of opposition parties would form the government. ALSO READ: K Chandrashekhar Rao leans towards Congress, wants JDS to broker deal On some parties speculating about the possibility of a United Front-type of Government of 1996-1998 with outside support from the Congress, Moily said, "There is no such thing now. It's too early and premature to say that". "Among all members of the opposition, the Congress figure (tally of seats) would be the highest", the former Karnataka chief minister said. "Common enemy is (Narendra) Modi and NDA. That is why, they (regional parties) can't join NDA; there shall be a combination of opposition parties who will definitely form the coalition (government)," Moily said. He defended the Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra's decision not to stand against Modi in Varanasi, saying it was not necessary as contesting there would have confined her to that constituency. "But now her services are available, she is going everywhere (for campaigning), that has given us more advantage", Moily told PTI. On whether the Congress would position its President Rahul Gandhi as the prime ministerial candidate, he said ultimately there should be unanimity among the opposition put together. FOLLOW OUR ELECTION COVERAGE HERE "Congress as a largest party in Parliament, particularly more so among the opposition, we definitely have the advantage of leading the opposition front," Moily said. On Rao's push to forge a non-Congress, non-BJP federal front of regional parties, he said there was nothing wrong about that. "That means he (Rao) is also against NDA. That is more than enough for us. That means to say there are no takers for the NDA, except Shiv Sena and some fringe parties like Ram Vilas Paswan's party", Moily said. The TRS had been pitching the idea of a non-Congress, non-BJP federal front of regional parties for several months now. Asked if some of the regional parties who are not on board with UPA would be "friends" post-poll, he said, "Correct. It's always like that. There may be combination prior to elections, and combination, permutations after elections". "This has happened even in 2004. For example, UDF is fighting against LDF in Kerala. So, there cannot be prior (pre-poll) understanding between these two parties. Even then, we joined together in 2004 in forming government," he said. Moily claimed that majority of regional parties would join the opposition combination to defeat the NDA. "Opposition will join together and form government", he said. Express News Service BENGALURU: After being embroiled in paper leak controversies over the years, Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences (RGUHS) has devised a mechanism to break free of the infamy it has earned for itself. For the first time in the university and perhaps the state, a centralised live surveillance system is put in place wherein the examination centres can be monitored at realtime from the headquarters, which is RGUHS where a control room is setup. Senior professors from various universities are designated as observers for three to four centres each. The initiative which is in pilot project is to ensure fair and transparent examination and reduce malpractices completely. For now, it is being implemented in the post graduate Medical and Dental examination of May 2019. RGUHS is the first university in the state to be implementing this project, said vice chancellor of the institute Dr S Sacchidanand. With the introduction of technology in monitoring, surveillance teams will have no place. Instead, just video surveillance will be implemented. The entire project is undertaken using university funds, added the VC, and is being implemented in the post graduate section which has lesser number of examinees. If all works well, the university will implement the project for graduate level medical examinations of affiliated colleges. On the first day of implementation, on Wednesday, teething problems like poor internet connectivity was experienced in some of the centres. The onus of the connectivity lies on the individual institutes. However the video will be locally buffered for reviewing after the live streaming and the university gets the entire data via cloud, and it is encrypted, said Devineni Penchala Srinivas, Director, Orego Biz Solutions Pvt Ltd which is the firm looking after the webstreaming both before and after the examination. High resolution cameras (720 P) are fitted in the examination halls , and for those with low internet connectivity, D1 resolution cameras are fitted. This is one among the chain of attempts made by the institute to rein in on the paper leak by adopting technology. Medical Education Minister in 2011 had announced that the papers would be transmitted online for the paramedical and nursing courses theory examination. Even so, recently, in 2018, the college was rocked with news about a potential leak , with copies of a question paper from the second year MBBS examination was circulated in social media just minutes after the examination had started. Mayank Singh By Express News Service NEW DELHI: An Italian journalist has confirmed Indias claim of inflicting a major casualty on the Jaish-e-Mohammed cadre in Balakot, Pakistan, in the Airstrike conducted on February 26. Italian journalist Francesca Marino quoting her Pakistan-based sources wrote, The numbers estimated have ranged from 130-170, including those who have died during treatment. Those killed included 11 trainers, ranging from bomb makers to those imparting weapons training. Two of these trainers were from Afghanistan. ALSO READ: We suffered 'no damage' in Balakot air strike: Pakistan Army The Indian Air Force had bombed the JeM training facility in the wee hours of February 26 at 3.30 am post the suicide attack on the CRPF convoy on February 14, which had killed 40 troops in Pulwama, J&K. Marino confirmed that there are more people still undergoing treatment under the Pakistan Army doctors and wrote, Local sources say around 45 persons are still undergoing treatment in this camp, while around 20 have died during treatment due to serious injuries. And, those who have recovered are still in custody of the Army and have not been discharged. ALSO READ: Response will be harder than previous, Pakistan warns India of Balakot-like 'misadventure' She has reported that efforts since the beginning have been to cover up the information from leaking. Pakistan Army is controlling the area and has restricted the camp access even to the local police. Marino pointed out that it was the Pakistan Army which cleared the area. Post the strike, the Pakistan Army shifted the injured, cleared the area. She added that vehicles dumped rubble in the Kunhar River during the first night after the strike. By PTI NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi Wednesday accused the Gandhi family of using warship INS Viraat as its "personal taxi" for a holiday when Rajiv Gandhi was at the helm, launching a fresh attack on the late Congress leader days after throwing the "bhrashtachari no 1" barb at him. Addressing his first poll rally in Delhi ahead of the May 12 elections for all its seven seats, Modi launched a scathing counter-attack on the Congress, asking why it fumes when he exposes the "misdeeds" of its leaders in whose name it often seeks votes. ALSO READ: Rebel BJP leader quotes Jammu and Kashmir Governor, says Rajiv Gandhi wasn't corrupt Congress leaders, including its president Rahul Gandhi and general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, have hit out at Modi for his barb at their father, who was India's prime minister between 1984-89. "Ever imagined that a premier warship of the Indian armed forces could be used as a taxi for a personal holiday? One dynasty did it," Modi asked. The Navy was made to host the Gandhi family and Rajiv Gandhi's in-laws, and a helicopter was also deployed in their service, Modi claimed, adding that when a family becomes supreme, the country's security is at stake. ALSO READ: Hurt by Modi's comment on Rajiv Gandhi, Amethi man writes letter in blood to EC "INS Viraat was insulted by using it as a personal taxi. This happened when Rajiv Gandhi and his family was out for a 10-day vacation. INS Viraat was deployed for securing our maritime boundary. But it was diverted to take the Gandhi family which was out for a vacation," Modi said. He also claimed that after picking up the Gandhi family, INS Viraat halted at an island for 10 days. "Rajiv Gandhi was accompanied by his in-laws who had come from Italy. Question is whether the security of the country was not compromised by taking foreigners onboard a warship," he asked. FOLLOW OUR ELECTION COVERAGE HERE Aircraft carrier INS Viraat was commissioned into the Indian Navy in 1987. After nearly 30 years of service, it was decommissioned in 2016. Earlier, Modi had dubbed Rajiv Gandhi as "bhrashtachari no 1" (corrupt no 1), in a reference to the Bofors scam. By Express News Service NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday launched a blistering attack on the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) for not implementing the Centres initiatives, including the national health protection scheme, in Delhi and termed it nakaampanthi (non-performance). Responding to the Oppositions accusation that the BJP was using security forces to gain political mileage, Modi said it was the then Congress prime minister Rajiv Gandhi who used Navy aircraft carrier INS Viraat and its staff to go on a family vacation. FOLLOW OUR ELECTION COVERAGE HERE Ridiculing the AAP, Modi said the party came to power in Delhi with the promise of ushering in change in the country and revolutionising politics, but ended up changing itself. Referring to the non-implementation of the Ayushman Bharat Yojana besides 10% reservation in government jobs and higher education for the economically weaker sections in the general category in Delhi, Modi said AAP is denying the benefits of Central schemes to the poor in the city. He was addressing his first election rally in the Capital. All seven seats in Delhi go to polls on May 12. Targeting the Gandhi family, Modi said Rajiv had used Navy staff and helicopter for a family vacation. INS Viraat was made to host his family and foreign guests when they were enjoying holidays for 10 days. By PTI SANT KABIRNAGAR/SIDDHARTHNAGAR/BALRAMPUR(UP): Hitting out at the Congress and other opposition parties, BJP chief Amit Shah on Thursday said the more their leaders hurl abuses at Prime Minister Narendra Modi the more the lotus will bloom. Shah also asserted that nobody except Modi can make the country feel secure and no one can take away Kashmir from India as long as the BJP exists. Referring to the air strike on terror camps in Balakot in Pakistan, he claimed that Congress president Rahul Gandhi and other opposition leaders sulked after the operation and asked whether the terrorists killed were their "maternal-paternal brothers". "The security of the country is of top priority to us. If a bullet (goli) comes to us from Pakistan, our people will retaliate with a shell (golaa)," Shah said amidst applause from the crowd at his rallies. The BJP president was addressing rallies in Sant Kabirnagar, Siddharthnagar and Balrampur in Uttar Pradesh. ALSO READ| Never saw 'a more coward, weak' PM than Modi: Priyanka Gandhi Shah claimed that the Congress, the Samajwadi Party(SP) and the Bahujan Samaj Party(BSP) have not spared Modi from any abuse since he hails from a poor family. "The Congress, Mayawati and Akhilesh are hurling all types of abuses at Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Some times he is addressed as Hitler, sometimes as Mussolini and sometimes he is called as a murderer. This is because they (opposition) cannot tolerate the son of a poor becoming the prime minister," he said in Sant Kabirnagar, his third rally of the day after Balrampur and Siddharthnagar. Shah said, "To all these leaders, I want to say that the more you hurl abuses, the lotus will bloom with more splendour." Referring to Pulwama attack, the BJP chief said, "After the Pulwama terror attack in which 40 jawans were martyred, Pakistan thought that India will conduct a surgical strike (through land route). But, the 56-inch broad chested Modi conducted air strikes which shook Pakistan. "There were celebrations in the country and people were exploding firecrackers. There can be no compromise with the security of the country. If Modi is made prime minister once again, nobody will be able to cast an evil eye. The infiltrators will be killed in their den. Nobody can make the country feel secure except Modi," he said. ALSO READ| You have made IAF jets your 'own taxi': Congress to Modi Shah sought votes for BJP candidate Praveen Kumar Nishad, the joint opposition candidate who had defeated the BJP in the Gorakhpur bypoll last year but switched sides to the saffron party before the Lok Sabha elections. Earlier in Siddharthnagar, Shah poked fun at the opposition alliance and asked them to tell as to who will be the prime minister if the so called 'gathbandhan' is voted to power. If BJP is voted to power, then Narendra Modi will become the prime minister. But, I want to ask Rahul Baba, bua-bhatija (an apparent reference to Akhilesh Yadav and Mayawati), that who will be the leader of your gathbandhan? If they are voted to power, then on Monday, Mayawati will be the prime minister. On Tuesday it will be Sharad Pawar, and on Wednesday somebody else would be the prime minister. These people are in politics to realise their vested interests, hide their corruption and for their families." ALSO READ| Be wary of 'khichdi' government: PM Modi in Azamgarh The BJP chief also said, "After the airstrike, the faces of Rahul Baba, Bua-Bhatija became sad (chehre latak gaye). They thought that their votebank had become angry. Why was disturbance in their camp when the IAF had killed terrorists in Pakistan. Were they (terrorists) their maternal-paternal brothers?" Wrapping up his day's visit to UP, Shah addressed a rally in Sultanpur where he said, "No one can take away Kashmir from us. As long as the BJP exists, Kashmir will continue to be an integral part of India." The BJP chief also said that Article 370 will be withdrawn from Jammu and Kashmir, if the saffron party is voted to power again. In Balrampur, from where he started his UP tour, Shah accused the SP and the BSP of favouring certain castes and working for them while on the contrary, the BJP believes in the mantra of 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas'. FOLLOW OUR ELECTION COVERAGE HERE "The SP and BSP are casteist and dynastic parties. When one was in power, it favoured a specific caste and worked for it. Similarly, when the second (party) was in power, it favoured another caste. The work of the society took a backseat," he said. But, on the contrary, he said, "The BJP believes in mantra of 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas', and it never asked the caste (of any person) while undertaking developmental works." Shah said the best way to end casteism is that all people should unite. "If people from all sections of the society come together, people who spread casteism will not be able to succeed." Showering praises on Modi, Shah said, "The Modi-Modi slogan, which can be heard across the country, is mot merely an election slogan. This is the blessings of the countrymen on Modiji. The slogan tells that, when counting of votes will take place on May 23, Modiji will be the next Prime Minister." Taking a jibe at Rahul Gandhi and Akhilesh Yadav, the BJP chief said, "For the past 70 years, the country was looking for a leader, who would live for the country and not only for himself. I know Modiji for the past 20 years, he has not taken an off for even a single day. Modi works for 18 out of 24 hours in a day. However, Akhilesh and Rahul go abroad to celebrate the vacations. Rahul Baba's mother does not even know where his son has gone abroad. The security of the country is of top priority to us. If a bullet (goli) comes to us from Pakistan, our people will retaliate with a shell (golaa)," he said amidst applause from the crowd. Sujata Anandan By I usually shy away from sharing very personal experiences publicly. But as India is in the throes of perhaps its most difficult election, I have a tragic but nonetheless heart-warming story to share with people who have been polarised and badly divided on communal lines over the past few years. Our former housemaid recently went missing from her home on the outskirts of the town where she was living alone. It took days for her children to discover the fact and by the time they got to the police station to lodge a missing person complaint, it was too late. However, the policemen recognised her from her photograph instantly. It turned out that she had been knocked down by a vehicle on the highway and taken to hospital in critical condition. The doctors could not save her life and the police could not track down any matching missing person complaint in her name. So they waited for the mandated five days and disposed of her body. Now it is here that the story gets even more tragic but heart-warming nonetheless. The maid was Hindu but in later life had taken to visiting the local dargah where the police had spotted her on many an occasion, sometimes giving her a lift back home. The maid was Hindu and widowed, so she did not have the obvious tell-tale symbols on her personlike sindoor, kumkum, bindi, toe rings, bangles, mangalsutra, etc. Since she had been such a frequent dargah visitor, the cops presumed she was Muslim and gave her a burial. When her daughter discovered that fact, she was shocked. She should have been sent to the other world with the chanting of some mantras, she insisted. It is here that we decided to jump in to her aid and applied to the authorities to exhume her mothers body. But the magistrate and collector flatly refused to allow thatbodies are exhumed only in instances of suspicion of foul play, we were told. She would have to stay buried. But her traumatised daughter quickly reconciled to that fact. Can I at least do some mantras at her grave side, she asked. This is when I realised that despite the lynching of Muslims for eating meat or just being the other and the attempt to create hatred and distrust between communities, at the basic level, out of sight of the polarising politicians, India has remained united and harmonious. The maid, in spite of her dargah visits, had remained a vegetarian and no one tried to convert her to another religion or non-vegetarianism. The maids daughter was granted permission to perform Hindu rites at the grave side under the supervision of wary cops. But barring a few token objections there were no hassles. Her family chanted the mantras at her grave, sprinkled kumkum and flowers and left a saree and bangles to see her through to the other world. A kabristan (cemetery) briefly turned into a shamshaan (crematorium) and no one even murmured. They came home without incident though immensely saddened. But there was none of the feeling of the other associated with her mothers burial. Even in life, her daughter had accepted with equanimity that for some reason her mother was attracted to the dargah but not enough to convert. Both religions had eventually called her to her end. When I was over the shock of the manner in which it had all happened, I sat up to take notice of how behind the heat of politics, in places that most dont know of, people continue to be human beings, undivided by faith and customs and willing to absorb and assimilate the differences. When I asked the maids daughter why her mother had taken to visiting a dargah, she said she did not know but thought the place gave her mother some kind of comfort that her own family could not. There was a complete lack of questioning of her mothers motives and acceptance of what was best for her. In more than a billion people in this country, this is merely one individual or family. But I would like to think that common people across the nation remain untouched by the divisive forces and hate and remain decent human beings. This also reminded me of stories of refugees from Pakistan, many of them sheltered and hidden by neighbours of the other faith in their homes from violent mobs rampaging the countryside until they could be delivered to safe havens. That happened more on the Pakistani side, for India was far more resilient and less violent. But now we are hell-bent on converting our country into another Pakistanwithin our own borders. When our former maid took to visiting the dargah, none of her neighbours, Hindu or Muslim, asked her to go to Pakistan. Her unlettered family proved more liberal and secular than any of the highly educated individuals we encounter in our daily lives or on social media who are routinely intolerant. Amid renewed slogans of mandir wahin banayenge, I do not think most people care about anything but the business of livingin harmony and peaceand seek out their own path to salvation, whether through a temple or a mosque whichever faith one may belong to. I fervently hope this is how India remains by and large and defeats all those forces that are contributing to a second break-up of India. Sujata Anandan Senior journalist and political commentator Email: sujata.anandan@gmail.com The Egyptian cabinets information centre has denied reports that the funds allocated for education would be reduced in the 2019/20 budget. In a statement on Thursday, the centre said that the Ministry of Finance categorically denies the reports, which it described as baseless. Education is a top priority for the state, which is keen to provide all the needed support for this sector, the cabinet said. Earlier on Monday, during a meeting of parliaments planning and budget committee, Minister of Education Tarek Shawky expressed frustration over the ministry not receiving the full funds it had requested for the new budget. "Despite requesting EGP 138 billion, we received only EGP 99 billion," said Shawky. "The EGP 39 billion difference is needed to increase teacher salaries, renovate buildings, create networks and buy tablets," he said. The Ministry of Education is embarking on a 12-year overhaul of the education system at an expected cost of $2 billion. The new system was implemented last September and includes a new curriculum and text books as well as the introduction of tablets in exams. Egypt is ranked among the poorest performing countries in education. The World Economic Forums Global Competitiveness Report 2017/18 ranked Egypt 130th and 133rd in the quality of primary education and of the overall education system out of 137 countries surveyed. Search Keywords: Short link: RAJU MATHAI By Express News Service In the wee hours of almost every night, we used to be woken up by the thuds of Pakistani shells bursting on the home side of the LoC far away from where we lived. Those were pre-war skirmishes. And then it happened. War was declared. Our three field companies of the Engineer Regiment were already on the war front with the brigades to which they were attached. The Division HQ swung into action. They moved out in the night leaving only a rear party behind to hold the fort. They dug trenches and built bunkers. Soon, a call came, asking an engineer representative to join the team on the field. Being a junior officer, I was chosen. I was shown the spot allotted for me and was advised to pitch my tent there. A tree covered us from the view of the enemy fighter jets. Pakistani warplanes used to zoom through the sky to drop bombs, and our HQ set off a siren to warn us. We were to jump into the trenches and stay there until all clear was heard. Our location was well camouflaged. When the siren goes on, all lights were switched off and all movements avoided. Life on the war field was very exciting, and dangerous. Threat to life came either from the air or from infiltrators. They wore civil dresses and could not be differentiated from Indians as our ethnic origins are the same. The only way to identify them was by asking the password which was valid only for the day. Every stranger was asked to stop, raise his hands and reveal the password. I used to leave the HQ in the morning to visit the field companies fighting with the infantry brigades, thus being a link between them and the HQ. The path was fraught with danger as there could be snipers hiding in the bushes. There were instances of such sniper fire killing our soldiers. Our Division did well. We intruded two miles into Pakistani territory in the Sialkot sector. I could see Sialkot 2 km away. We were winning and the morale of the troops was high. When we were ready to take over Sialkot, to our surprise, the decision came from the top unilaterally declaring ceasefire. We were already in Pakistan territory then. And an adventurous encounter came to an end. By Express News Service KARWAR: The Indian Navy on Thursday released pictures of Suvarna Tribhuja -fishing vessel, a week after its wreckage was found off the Maharashtra coast. The fishing vessel, with seven fishermen on board, went into the deep sea from Malpe harbour in Udupi district on December 13, 2018. On December 15, 2018, when the vessel was off Malvan, it lost contact with other fishing boats and harbour. Since then the vessel with seven crews missing. READ| 137 days later, fishing vessels wreckage found On May 1, INS Nireekshak ship found the wreckage 33 km off Malvan through Side Scan Sonar technology. Following the discovery, the Navy stopped its search operation to find missing fishermen which have been criticised by fishermen community of both Uttara Kannada and Udupi districts. The vessel is suspected to be hit by INS Kochi but the Navy is yet to clarify it. The Navy said, INS Kochi was hit by an unidentified object when it was sailing off Malvan coast on December 15, 2018. Fishermen Laxman, Ravi, Harish, Satish, Ramesh of Uttara Kannada district and Chandrashekar, Damodhar of Udupi district were in the fishing boat. By Express News Service NIA is looking to unearth more information on Keralities who joined the IS Muhammad Faisal was in Qatar when he along with four members of the module were arraigned in the Kasargod IS case. Responding to the NIA notice, he appeared at the NIA office in Kochi on Wednesday morning. He flew down from West Asia on Tuesday KOCHI: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Wednesday interrogated a Chengankulangara native who is the member of the Islamic State (IS)-linked module which was planning attacks in Kerala. Muhammad Faisal Hammed, 25, was served a notice by the NIA to appear for interrogation after a Palakkad native was arrested for planning a suicide attack. Muhammad Faisal who was in Qatar when he along with four members of the module were arraigned as accused in 2016 in the Kasargod IS case. He landed at Nedumbassery airport on Tuesday. Responding to the notice, he appeared at the NIA office in Kochi on Wednesday morning. According to sources, the interrogation of Muhammad Faisal continued from morning to evening. He will be interrogated again on Thursday. In a similar fashion, the NIA had interrogated two Kasargod residents who were part of the module. However, the agency decided not to arrest them as they did not support suicide attacks for which Palakkad native Riyas Aboobacker was prepared by IS operatives from abroad. The NIA is looking to receive more information about Keralities who joined the IS at Syria and Afghanistan by interrogating Muhammad Faisal. Similarly, he is likely to provide information about any links of the module with Sri Lanka carnage mastermind Zaharan Hashim. Earlier, the agency had found that IS operatives from Kerala - Rashid Abdullah, Ashfaq Majeed, Abdul Khayoom - contacted the module members for furthering IS operations in the state. The members of the module were also following speeches and videos of Zahran Hashim and controversial preacher Zakir Naik. Rajesh Abraham By Express News Service KOCHI: Losing sleep over the rising value of the land you sell to the government for road and infrastructure projects once you part with the holdings? Hold on, the government has a new plan. In its regulatory filing for masala bonds, Kerala Infrastructure Investment Fund Board (KIIFB) said its board has authorised CEO K M Abraham to draw up a scheme for the issue of land bonds, which will ensure the land owners enjoy future appreciation of the land value. Discussions have been held with revenue authorities and government departments requiring land acquisition for their infrastructure projects. 20 approved projects require urgent land acquisition in an amount of 617 acres, according to the filings, a copy of which is with Express. It said a meeting chaired by the Revenue Minister, which was attended by Additional Chief Secretary (Finance), Additional Chief Secretary (Taxes), Inspector General of Registration and District Collectors, was convened to discuss ways in which land acquisition can be facilitated through KIIFB funding. The filing said it was resolved that the issuer will finance the acquisition of the 20 approved urgent projects through funds already available to it, prior to land bonds being issued.Land bonds have been used by several countries, including Brazil, Ireland, Jamaica and South Korea, to compensate those from whom land is acquired for government projects. Sometimes a key project gets delayed due to reluctance by one or two landowners to part with their patch of land. This may also get into legal tangles delaying the project by five-six years when the project can be completed in two-three years, said a senior KIIFB officer. By issuing land bonds, the landowners can be compensated for the expected rise in property value after the project comes up. A new flyover or a road may trigger a sharp spike in the land value in that area. The land bonds will ensure that the landowners enjoy the benefits, the officer said.According to her, the design of the land bonds is in the works and they may see the light of the day may be in another one-two years. We need to see what should be the tenure of the land bonds etc, she said. The document said KIIFB has the power, with the governments prior sanction, to borrow and lend any sum required for the purposes of the KIIF Act, pursuant to Section 8 of the KIIF Act.For this purpose, KIIFB can issue any financial instrument, including revenue bonds with structured repayment mechanisms, land bonds and any other appropriate financial instruments, or by making arrangements with banks, multilateral funding agencies or institutions approved by the state government. By PTI CHENNAI: The relative of a victim and a survivor of the 1991 suicide bomber attack which killed former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi on Thursday said they are confident Tamil Nadu Governor Banwarilal Purohit will not release the seven life convicts in the assassination case. However, parties, including the DMK, and relatives of the convicts demanded their immediate release. The Congress in Tamil Nadu said there should be no pressure on the Governor over the issue. Hours after the Supreme Court dismissed their plea objecting to the State government's 2014 decision recommending release of the seven convicts,they exuded confidence that justice will be done. A bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi said, "All aspects were covered in the earlier constitution bench verdict in the case and therefore nothing survives in the case." S Abbas, coordinator of the families of victims and the petitioner in the case in the apex court, said the judgment saddened him. "We are consulting on aspects like possibility of preferring an appeal. We will take appropriate steps," he said. Abbas, who is the son of Samdhani Begum, a Mahila Congress leader who was among those killed in the attack, said he and members of families of other victims were confident that Purohit will not release the convicts. "If at all they are going to be released eyeing vote bank politics, it will be tantamount to supporting terrorism and will be injustice," he told PTI. He said people like him belong to marginalised sections of the society and hail from a very ordinary family. "Despite difficulties, we went to the level of Supreme Court to stop their release, what else can we do if they are going to be released what can we do? We pin our hope on God," he said. "Leaders of political parties are supporting their release eyeing elections to four Assembly segments, it is regrettable," Abbas said. Retired police officer Anusuya Daisy Ernest, a survivor of the attack, said the judgment saddened her, adding she and the victims' kin were contemplating on what could be done next. "I believe in God. We are confident the Governor will do justice for the victims, their families, survivors and all those who were affected by the terror attack that fateful day in 1991," Anusuya, who was a police sub-inspector then, said. She was seriously injured in the attack and to this day has pellets embedded in her body which caused tremendous pain. Just ahead of the blast, Anusuya said, she had tried stopping the assassin Dhanu from coming close to Rajiv Gandhi. She retired as additional police superintendent last year. The retired officer recalled a meeting she and the families of victims had with Purohit last year. "I explained to him the kind of pain I endure due to the serious injuries I sustained in the attack and pleaded with him along with others to not release the convicts," she said. "We trust the governor will not release them," she added. Arputhammal, mother of Perarivalan, one of the convicts, said she was confident that the governor will release all the convicts and welcomed the judgment. Last year when she visited Purohit seeking the release of convicts, Arputhammal said, "Governor told me that he will do it (release the convicts). I have waited for eight months, and now after this judgment there is a conducive ambience for their release." ALSO READ| Rajiv Gandhi assassination case: SC dismisses pleas opposing Tamil Nadu's move to release convicts Tamil Nadu deputy chief minister O Panneerselvam told reporters in Madurai that the government has already taken all steps for their release, including apprising the Centre over the decision to set them free. Tamil Nadu Congress Committee chief KS Alagiri said there were so many Tamils in prisons for over 25 years and "all of them can be released including these seven convicts. We do not have a different opinion. However, there should be no pressure on either the court or the governor, they must not be forced. If the court says they can be released since they have spent long years in prison, TNCC will welcome it," he told reporters at Tirupur. DMK president MK Stalin said he welcomed the apex court judgment dismissing a plea against the release of the seven Rajiv case convicts."On behalf of the DMK, I urge governor Purohit to immediately accept the Tamil Nadu Cabinet resolution recommending release of the seven convicts and issue an order for their release," he said, adding that there should be no further delay. There was no bar for the governor now to decide under Article 161 (of the constitution relating to the governor's judicial powers) and there was no avenue either to attribute "any other reason," for not ordering their release, Stalin said. PMK founder S Ramadoss said the release of convicts should not be delayed any more. "Unofficially, Raj Bhavan had cited this pending case in the Supreme Court against the release of the convicts. That case has now been dismissed and there is no bar for their release now," Ramadoss said. Former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi was assassinated by a suicide bomber in Sriperumbudur in Tamil Nadu on May 21, 1991. The AIADMK government had in September 2018 recommended to the governor to release all seven life convicts in the Rajiv Gandhi assassination case. By Express News Service CHENNAI: A PIL has been filed in the Madras High Court for a directive to the authorities concerned to file a status report on the issue relating to deletion of nearly 45,000 eligible voters in Kanniyakumari parliamentary constituency in the elections on April 18 and to hold re-election in polling stations where it had occurred. A vacation bench of Justices S Vaidyanathan and Subramonium Prasad, before which the petition from A Rajkumar, district co-ordinator of Tamil Meenavar Koottamaippu, came up for hearing on Wednesday, ordered notice to the authorities concerned, returnable by June 12. FOLLOW OUR ELECTION COVERAGE HERE Petitioner contended that the mass deletion has raised a suspicion that the election authorities had made a statutory default in conducting a fair and free election, by removing voters names wantonly. The government, led by AIADMK, was apprehensive that the voters, who were severely affected by Ockhi cyclone, would not cast their votes in its favour. The election authorities failed to monitor the situation and in their statutory responsibility to hold a free and fair election. It had been assessed by independent agencies that nearly 45,007 voters names had been deleted from the list. This was evident from the fact there was a decrease in the number of voters between the elections in 2016 and 2019. This was contrary to the claim of the authorities there was nearly a five per cent increase of new voters in 2019 elections. The average voting rate of Tamil Nadu was 72 per cent, but Kanniyakumari witnessed only 69 per cent, the petitioner said. The voting time was also wrongly printed in the booth slip. It stated 7 am. to 8 pm. Voters who turned up at the booths after 6 pm were shown the door, petitioner alleged. He sought to restrain the authorities from counting the votes on May 23 and to order re-poll in all the booths where voters names were deleted on a large-scale. Aadhithya MS By Express News Service PUDUKKOTTAI: On Tuesday, the mortal remains of R Parthiban reached his home in Karambakudi village in Pudukkottai district two days after he died in an accident in Malaysia. Given he had no relatives in Malaysia, many were surprised at how the body had reached his family so fast. Credit goes to the Malaysia-based Tamil group called Ayalagam Udhavi Kuzhu. The group was started three years ago by youngsters from Tamil Nadu working in Malaysia. Many of the members are delivery persons, industrial labourers and waiters. With 65 members, the group helps those stuck in Malaysia due to visa issues, health or other problems through crowd-funding. The group works with a network of 2,000 well-wishers on WhatsApp. So far, the members said they had rescued close to 1,500 Tamilians stuck in hospitals with hefty bills and in jails with expired tourists visas. In a year, they have returned the remains of 10 people from Malaysia to Tamil Nadu. With the massive reach of social media, one Facebook post brings the required response in a matter of hours., said Jothi Barathi, a member of the group. We could identify and rescue only a handful of people but hundreds, unaware of the risks, step into this country every week, said Pari Thamizharasan, a member. By PTI DUBAI: An Indian Christian businessman, who built a mosque for Muslim workers in the UAE, is serving iftar meals to nearly 800 workers during the ongoing month of Ramzan. Saji Cheriyan, 49, who hails from Kerala's Kayamkulam, built the mosque last year for Muslim workers living in a worker accommodation that he rented out to 53 companies in Fujairah. He built the Mariam Umm Eisa (Mary, the Mother of Jesus) mosque after he saw workers spending their earnings on taking taxis to go to the nearest mosque to offer prayers during the holy month. Ramzan this year began on May 7. Cheriyan, who landed in the UAE in 2003 with just a few hundred dirhams, hosts iftar for about 800 people including workers and other senior employees of various companies at an air-conditioned convention centre in the same complex, the Gulf News reported. The mosque opened on the 17th night of Ramadan last year. So, I could offer iftar to the worshippers only for the remaining days. From this year, I would be doing it every day, he was quoted as saying by the newspaper. The iftar meal includes dates, fresh fruits, snacks, juice, water and biryani. I have made arrangements to offer different types of biryani so that they don't get bored eating the same dish every iftar, Cheriyan said. Abdul Qayum, a 63-year-old Pakistani bus driver, who had iftar on Wednesday, appreciated Cheriyan's efforts. "The world needs people like him. If there are no people like him, the world will end. We are praying for him. Allah will bless him." Vajas Abdul Wahid, an Indian employed as assistant manager with a company, said there are employees of more than 50 companies living in the area. "Senior employees and labourers are staying in separate accommodations. But, when we come here, we are all equal. We pray and have iftar together, he added. The mosque in the East Ville Real Estate complex in Al Hayl Industrial Area can accommodate 250 worshippers at a time. Facilities for another 700 to pray in the interlocked courtyard of the mosque, which will be shaded by the time it opens, have also been arranged. By PTI COLOMBO: The Sri Lankan government has announced a one-year debt moratorium and subsidised working capital for the tourism sector as a slew measure to help revive the tourism industry hit hard by the Easter Sunday terror attacks. The relief package comes as the official tourism arrival figures released on Tuesday, the first monthly report since the terror attacks, showed that Sri Lanka's tourist arrivals declined 7.5 per cent in April 2019 compared to the same period last year. The Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority said April recorded 166,975 foreign tourists in the country compared to 180,429 in April 2018, a 7.5 per cent dip in the arrival of tourists from abroad. State Minister for Finance Eran Wickremeratne said the debt moratorium will be given by the Central Bank of Sri Lanka to tourism sector institutions and individuals, on a case-by-case basis. The moratorium period will be until March 31, 2020, for both capital and interest payments granted to the tourism sector as of April 18, 2019, the minister said. The interest subsidy is borne by the government on outstanding credit facilities, both capital and interest, he said. The working capital debt and interest will be treated as separate loans to be repaid from July 2020. Working capital loans will be based on revenue of hotels. Up to 75 per cent of the interest will be subsidised, the state minister said. The Value Added Tax on hotels will also be reduced to 5 per cent from 15 per cent, Wickremeratne said. Duty-free importation will be allowed for security equipment such as handheld metal detectors, walk-through metal detectors, baggage x-ray inspection equipment and vehicle scanners. The bombings, which targeted three Christian churches and three Colombo hotels, killed over 250 people, including 44 foreigners, and injured over 500, including 37 foreigners. Tourism industry officials said there have been 70 per cent cancellations of prior bookings after the attacks. The US, China, the UK, India and Australia were among the countries which issued travel warnings on Sri Lanka following the blasts carried out by local Islamist extremist group National Thawheed Jammath (NTJ). Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena Tuesday appealed to the international community to lift travel the warnings issued after the terror attacks. Tourism accounts for about five per cent of Sri Lanka's economy, with India, Britain and China being the main markets. The country earned about USD 4.4 billion in 2018 from the tourism sector. Around 450,000 Indian tourists visited Sri Lanka last year and the island nation was expecting the total Indian tourist arrivals to cross one million in 2019. Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority Chairman Kishu Gomes has said that tourist arrivals are expected to fall 60 percent in May. Sri Lanka is expected to lose 1.5 billion US dollars in revenue from tourism in 2019. By AFP SIBIU: Britain's Brexit minister on Thursday condemned "lazy thinking" about the country's divorce from the European Union, urging Brussels to be ambitious in future cooperation, particularly on security issues. As EU leaders met in Romania to debate the bloc's future without Britain, Steve Barclay used a side event to urge them to move on from the "Nigel Farage little-Englander portrayal of Brexit". Barclay pleaded with the EU to look beyond the bitter wrangling in Westminster over the divorce deal and focus on the potential for future cooperation. "From my generation of politicians within the UK, Brexit was an opportunity of confidence, of optimism, a desire to be more global," Barclay said. "It certainly wasn't the Nigel Farage little-Englander portrayal of Brexit and I think too often there is lazy thinking to be frank on Brexit and a failure to look at that longer term relationship between the UK and Europe." Britain was due to leave the EU on March 29 but the departure has been delayed twice as Prime Minister Theresa May struggles to get her withdrawal agreement approved by parliament. Her government is in talks with the opposition Labour Party to find a compromise to clear the logjam and allow Brexit to go ahead. The EU summit in the Transylvanian town of Sibiu is aimed at charting the future of the union after Brexit, and in the run-up there was palpable relief among officials that Britain's tortuous exit from the bloc would not dominate discussions. May is not attending the summit but Barclay briefed EU ministers and MEPs on the sidelines on the state of the cross-party talks as well as Britain's plans for European elections later this month. Egypt's President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi discussed the latest developments in Libya with Khalifa Haftar, commander of the Libyan National Army (LNA), in Cairo on Thursday, the Egyptian presidency said in a statement. Haftar briefed El-Sisi on the latest developments and efforts by the LNA to fight terrorism and radical militias and achieve stability and security in the country. Haftar also discussed Libyan efforts to combat the trafficking of arms and the movement of foreign fighters into Libya from abroad. President El-Sisi stressed Egypt's support for the LNA's efforts to fight terrorism in all its forms as well its role in working towards reaching political solutions to the conflict in the country. Director of Egypt's general intelligence service Abbas Kamel attended the meeting. Libya has been a war-torn country since the death of its leader Muammar Gaddafi in October 2011. Islamist militants have since controlled large parts of the vast country, including the capital Tripoli. Since April , Eastern-based Libyan forces led by Haftar have been advancing in a push to seize the capital, Tripoli, but troops loyal to Prime Minister Fayez Al-Serraj's internationally recognized government have so far kept them at bay. Search Keywords: Short link: Champaign, IL (61820) Today Becoming partly cloudy after some morning light rain. Morning high of 60F with temps falling to near 45. Winds NNW at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of rain 90%.. Tonight A few clouds. Low 33F. Winds light and variable. Thousands of Algerian students joined the first rally of Ramadan on Tuesday, pressing on with weeks of protests against the ruling elite after president Abdelaziz Bouteflika quit. Wearing national flags over their shoulders, crowds gathered around the post office of central Algiers which has become the focal point of demonstrations. "We will go on with the marches and the protests during and after Ramadan," said Kheredine, a second-year chemistry student. "It's true that it's hot and that we fast, but we want to let the regime know that the mobilisation continues," he added. The Muslim holy month of Ramadan is marked by fasting from sunrise to sunset, but demonstrators vowed they would not succumb to fatigue. "If you think we're tired, you're wrong!" read a placard held by Sedik Ait, one of Kheredine's teachers. Student rallies were also held in cities across the country, Algerian media reported, as protesters push for a sweeping overhaul of the political system. They stand opposed to July 4 elections called by interim president Abdelkader Bensalah, who was appointed after Bouteflika stepped down last month. The polls are strongly backed by Algeria's army chief General Ahmed Gaid Salah, once an ardent supporter of Bouteflika who ultimately called for the president's impeachment. Tuesday's protest comes days after the arrest of the former president's brother, Said Bouteflika, a hugely influential figure who was frequently cited as a likely successor to his elder sibling. Two former intelligence chiefs, General Mohamed Mediene, known as Toufik, and General Athmane Tartag were also detained and are facing charges including "conspiring" against the state. Photos of the three were featured at the Algiers demonstration, alongside that of Gaid Salah who is largely thought to have ordered the arrests. Search Keywords: Short link: 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/Columnist Julie Wurth is a reporter covering the University of Illinois at The News-Gazette. Her email is jwurth@news-gazette.com, and you can follow her on Twitter (@jawurth). Funeral homes often submit obituaries as a service to the families they are assisting. However, we will be happy to accept obituaries from family members pending proper verification of the death. Submit U.S. President Donald Trump on Thursday urged Irans leadership to sit down and talk with him about giving up Tehrans nuclear program and said he could not rule out a military confrontation given the heightened tensions between the two countries. At an impromptu news conference at the White House, Trump declined to say what prompted him to deploy the USS Abraham Lincoln carrier group to the region over what was described as unspecified threats. We have information that you dont want to know about, said Trump. They were very threatening and we have to have great security for this country and many other places. Trump was asked whether there was a risk of military confrontation with the American military presence in the area. I guess you could say that always, right? I dont want to say no, but hopefully that wont happen. We have one of the most powerful ships in the world that is loaded up and we dont want to do anything, he said. Trump, who last year pulled Washington out of a 2015 nuclear deal between six world powers and Iran, has expressed a willingness to meet Iranian leaders in the past to no avail and renewed that appeal in talking to reporters. What they should be doing is calling me up, sitting down. We can make a deal, a fair deal, we just dont want them to have nuclear weapons - not too much to ask. And we would help put them back to great shape. He added: They should call. If they do, were open to talk to them. Asked about Trumps comments, Irans ambassador to the United Nations Majid Takht Ravanchi said Iran had been talking with the six powers, including the United States, within the framework of the nuclear deal. All of a sudden he decided to leave the negotiating table. ... What is the guarantee that he will not renege again? Takht Ravanchi said in an MSNBC interview. He dismissed U.S. allegations of an Iranian threat as fake intelligence and said they were being produced by the same people who in the run-up to the U.S. invasion of Iraq did the same. Trump accused former Secretary of State John Kerry, who helped the negotiate the 2015 Iran nuclear deal that Trump withdrew from, of breaking a federal law by having contacts with the Iranians. Last September Kerry told the Hugh Hewitt radio program that he had met with Iranian Foreign Minister Javad Zarif three or four times. Trump said Kerry had violated the 1799 Logan Act, which makes it a crime for individual American citizens to negotiate with foreign governments that have a dispute with the United States. Hes talking to Iran and has many meetings and many phone calls and hes telling them what to do. That is total violation of the Logan Act, said Trump. A Kerry spokesman said Trump was wrong. Hes wrong about the facts, wrong about the law, and sadly hes been wrong about how to use diplomacy to keep America safe, the spokesman said. Wed hope the president would focus on solving foreign policy problems for America instead of attacking his predecessors for theater. Search Keywords: Short link: Secretary for Development Michael Wong (left) meets Deputy Director of the Hong Kong & Macao Affairs Office of the State Council Huang Liuquan in Beijing. Secretary for Development Michael Wong concluded his Beijing visit today by meeting officials of the Ministry of Commerce and the Hong Kong & Macao Affairs Office of the State Council. Mr Wong met the ministry's Department of Taiwan, Hong Kong & Macao Affairs Deputy Director General Liu Huabo. They exchanged views on issues including matters relating to the Mainland & Hong Kong Closer Economic Partnership Arrangement (CEPA), the development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, the Belt & Road Initiative and Hong Kong's engagement in the Mainland's foreign aid construction projects. He then met Deputy Director of the Hong Kong & Macao Affairs Office of the State Council Huang Liuquan. He thanked the office for its support in fostering mutual recognition of professional qualifications under the CEPA framework. They also discussed issues, including the opportunities brought about by the development of the bay area and the Belt & Road Initiative. Proposed amendments to the Fugitive Offenders Ordinance and the Mutual Legal Assistance in Criminal Matters Ordinance will maintain all existing human rights and procedural safeguards, Secretary for Security John Lee said. Speaking at a press conference today, Mr Lee said the safeguards provided for in the current legislations will be maintained under the case-based arrangements. These include no surrender for a political offence, the double criminality principle and protection against the death penalty. Other safeguards include the restriction against re-surrender, rule against double jeopardy as well as the application for habeas corpus and right to appeal and judicial review. He called on the Legislative Council to start vetting the bill as soon as possible because the jailed suspect in the Taiwan homicide case could be released as early as October. Mr Lee said: We approach the question of offering legal assistance to the Taiwan side with respect to the Taiwan authorities. At the present moment, I have said repeatedly theres no legal basis to offer assistance that has been requested. He added the proposed amendments would grant the Government with the legal basis to provide full assistance to Taiwan authorities. We can only do the best Hong Kong can do to ensure that this suspect, whom they want, can be surrendered to them lawfully. Secretary for Financial Services & the Treasury James Lau (centre) attends the UK-Hong Kong Financial Dialogue 2019 in London. Secretary for Financial Services & the Treasury James Lau has begun his visit to London by attending the UK-Hong Kong Financial Dialogue 2019. Speaking at the dialogues forum, Mr Lau said Hong Kong, being the most international city in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, is well positioned to build on its role as an international financial centre to be the gateway to the bay area for British and international financial services firms. He noted the Outline Development Plan for the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area further recognises and supports the city's status as an international financial centre, global offshore renminbi business hub, international asset management and risk management centre. With enhanced interconnectivity, demand for cross-boundary financial services would increase and hence opportunities for the industry, and Hong Kong welcomes British firms to make use of its financial strengths to tap into the huge Greater Bay Area market, Mr Lau added. In a meeting with UK Economic Secretary to the Treasury John Glen prior to the dialogue, Mr Lau highlighted the vast opportunities brought about by strengthened Hong Kong-UK co-operation in areas including green finance, fintech, the Belt & Road Initiative and the Greater Bay Area. He also addressed the Hong Kong Association at a luncheon and visited Ebury, a London-based fintech company which established an office in Hong Kong last year. Mr Lau called on Acting Chinese Ambassador to the UK Chen Wen and attended a reception for the UK-Hong Kong Financial Dialogue 2019 hosted by the Hong Kong Economic & Trade Office, London. The Government today said amending local extradition laws can enhance the Hong Kong Special Administrative Regions capability in dealing with fugitives of serious criminal offences and makes the city a better partner in the international fight against crime. It responded to media enquiries on the United States-China Economic & Security Review Commissions report on proposed amendments to the Fugitive Offenders Ordinance and the Mutual Legal Assistance in Criminal Matters Ordinance. The Government said it attaches utmost importance to the rule of law and judicial independence, which are the core values of the HKSAR. It said the HKSARs regime on surrender of fugitives makes reference to the guidelines and model prescribed by the United Nations and is fully underpinned by human rights protection principles that are prevailing in practising regimes in many jurisdictions around the world. The HKSAR has signed long-term surrender of fugitive offenders agreements with 20 jurisdictions including the US, the Government said. All existing human rights and procedural safeguards provided for in the current legislation will also be maintained under case-based arrangements, it said. If passed, the amendments will protect business activities from the threat of crime and be conducive to the business environment in Hong Kong, the Government added. The Government today said foreign institutions should not interfere in the internal affairs of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region. It responded to media enquiries about a report on the city by the European Commission and the High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs & Security Policy. The Government said the HKSAR has been exercising Hong Kong people administering Hong Kong and a high degree of autonomy in strict accordance with the Basic Law since its return to the Motherland. The one country, two systems principle has been fully and successfully implemented and human rights and freedom in Hong Kong are fully protected by the Basic Law, the Hong Kong Bill of Rights Ordinance and other legislation, it said. Noting the Basic Law stipulates the HKSAR is an inalienable part of the Peoples Republic of China, the Government said any suggestion for Hong Kongs independence is a blatant violation of the Basic Law and a direct affront to the national sovereignty, security and territorial integrity of the PRC. For other issues mentioned in the report, the Government said that it has been handling Hong Kong affairs strictly in accordance with the one country, two systems principle, the Basic Law and the laws of Hong Kong. On environmental protection, the Government said it has been taking comprehensive actions to reduce emissions from different air pollution sources. Concentrations of major air pollutants have gone down by more than 30% since 2013, it added. The commitments made under the Free Trade Agreement between Hong Kong and the three Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) member states of Myanmar, Singapore and Thailand will come into effect on June 11. Upon the agreements implementation, Singapore will commit to binding all its customs duties at zero, while Myanmar and Thailand will progressively reduce and eliminate their customs duties on goods originating from Hong Kong. The tariff reduction commitments cover different kinds of Hong Kong commodities including jewellery, articles of apparel and clothing accessories, watches and clocks and toys. To enjoy the preferential tariff treatment for exporting Hong Kong goods to these three places, Hong Kong traders need to comply with the relevant preferential rules of origin and requirements. On trade in services, Hong Kong service providers will enjoy better business opportunities and legal certainty in market access for a comprehensive range of services sectors. Hong Kong and ASEAN signed the agreement and an investment agreement at the end of 2017. The agreements dates of entry into force for the remaining seven ASEAN member states will be announced as soon as they are confirmed. The carnival will start with The Heart of Robin Hood, an action-packed adaptation of the classic tale of Robin Hood. The annual International Arts Carnival will be held from July 5 to August 18. Groups from Hong Kong, Canada, Iceland, the Netherlands, Spain, Sweden and Vietnam will put on acrobatics, dance, music, puppet and theatre performances. Films and animations from around the world will also be screened. There will be a Summer Fun Party and outreach and school touring programmes. There will also be workshops, backstage tours and an exhibition as part of the extension activities. Tickets are available at URBTIX. However, Justice Zhou then asked Nyangwa if it was possible for a person to be given US$100, but decides to repay the same amount using firewood. In his response, Nyangwa said the application ought to fail on the basis that the law regulating currency in Zimbabwe is a law of general application. Zanu-PF national spokesperson Cde Simon Khaya Moyo yesterday scoffed at the MDCs attempt to involve the ruling party in its internal affairs after the High Court nullified the appointment of Mr Chamisa and Eng Mudziri as party co-vice presidents and directing the party to hold an extraordinary congress a month after the date of the order. The court ruling by Justice Edith Mushore ordering the MDC party to hold an extraordinary congress within a month to elect a substantive leadership is purely an internal matter within the MDC, he said. It has absolutely nothing to do with Zanu-PF and its visionary leader Cde ED Mnangagwa as insinuated by its spokesperson Mr Jacob Mafume. It is clear from the court proceedings that the applicant is an MDC member. Zanu-PF is too principled a party with a revolutionary history to engage in MDC shenanigans. President ED Mnangagwa is too pre-occupied with matters of the state economy as evidenced by the Zimbabwe is open for business mantra and vision 2030. Yesterday, Justice Edith Mushore ruled that the appointments by Mr Tsvangirai of Mr Chamisa and Engineer Elias Mudzuri as party co-vice presidents three years ago was invalid. Mr Chamisa and Eng Mudzuri were listed as second and third respondents in the matter. The appointment of second (Chamisa) and third (Mudzuri) respondents as deputy presidents of the MDC party were unconstitutional and therefore null and void, said Justice Mushore. The appointment of the second respondent as acting president and president of the MDC party were unconstitutional and therefore null and void. In addition, the judge ruled that all the decisions made under the Nelson Chamisa administration are invalid and he cannot preside over party matters. All appointments and or reassignments and all actions of the second respondent in his purported capacities as deputy/acting or incumbent president were unconstitutional. The first respondent (MDC) be and is hereby ordered to hold an extra-ordinary congress after the lapse of at least one month after the date of this order. This means the partys national council has to go back to the status quo and follow dictates of their constitution to deal with the upcoming congress. It also means that Mr Chamisa cannot preside over the congress because he was an ordinary card-carrying member of the party before his surprise elevation. Despite strong and historic ties with the US, Jordan is in a bind, worried it will be a victim if the Deal of the Century goes through Jordans monarch King Abdullah II said it more than once; Amman will not accept any pressure resulting from its positions on the Palestinian cause and Jerusalem. King Abdullah asserted there is no solution for the Palestinian issue except through a two-state solution that guarantees the creation of an independent Palestinian state within the 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital. The monarchs position is very popular among his people. Political groups organise near daily marches across the country in support of their king, while other official and grassroots rallies also take place at universities and elsewhere. The world is waiting for the so-called Deal of the Century to be revealed by Washington after US President Donald Trumps son-in-law Jared Kushner Kushner announced mid-February that the US will present the Palestinian-Israeli peace plan after general elections in Israel. There were also rumours that the US is putting pressure on Jordan to accept the deal. Jumana Ghonaimat, spokesperson for the Jordanian government, said: The people of Jordan always support their leadership, and are always ready, especially when it comes to Palestine, Jerusalem and Al-Aqsa Mosque. The kings stand represents all Jordanians. She continued: King Abdullah said Jerusalem is a red line, so are citizenship and an alternate homeland. All Jordanians support this. Ghonaimat added that, Jordan and Palestine have a strong bond that is above any plots to sow division between them. We are steadfast in our position on the Palestinian cause, the creation of a Palestinian state, occupied Jerusalem, and Muslim holy sites. The Jerusalem office at Jordans Ministry of Religious Endowments is the official custodian of Al-Aqsa Mosque and Jerusalem holy sites, according to international law and it supervises religious affairs in Jerusalem according to the Wadi Al-Arab Agreement (the 1994 peace treaty between Jordan and Israel). In March 2013, King Abdullah and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas signed an agreement giving Jordan the right of guardianship and defence of Jerusalem and holy sites in Palestine. Nonetheless, Trump seems adamant to forge ahead with the deal of the century although almost no one supports it. Kushner announced 2 May that the deal will be unveiled next month, after the new Israeli government is formed and Ramadan ends. Speaking at the Washington Institute for Near East Policy, Kushner said: What we will prepare is a solution we believe would be a good starting point for political issues, and thus a framework to assist people to begin a better life. He continued: I was asked to find a solution for both sides and I believe what we will propose is a realistic work plan that can be implemented... I strongly believe this will lead both sides to a much better life. Kushner did not give any details about the deal, only saying it is composed of two main parts; one political regarding key issues such as Jerusalem and another economic, aiming to assist Palestinians to boost their economy. Jordan's Role In The Deal Based on leaks to the press in the West and Israel, Jordan will play a role in the deal, namely forming a confederation with the Palestinian Authority, and a civilian Palestinian administration to manage the West Bank. Settlements in the West Bank would be annexed by Israel once and for all, and a united Jerusalem would become Israels capital. Jordanians believe the deal aims to obliterate the Palestinian cause at Jordans expense, since press leaks also state that one million Palestinians will be given citizenship in Jordan in return for $45 billion. Al-Dustour, a Jordanian newspaper, echoed the official line: Any talk of an alternative homeland for Palestinians will be ignored by the Jordanian people. Jordan is Jordan, and Palestine is Palestine. Marwan Al-Maashar wrote in Al-Ghad newspaper 20 March: The deal of the century is an existential threat to the Palestinian cause and Palestinian people. This is merely an attempt to annex Jerusalem, the Jordan Valley and areas where illegal settlements were built. The biggest concern is the USs determination to convince Jordan to take over administrative or political government for Palestinians, and thus block their right to create their own state on their land with East Jerusalem as its capital... Jordan fully understands that the deal of the century is an existential threat that has direct implications, namely eliminating the two-state solution from the US and Israels perspective. The status of Jerusalem is one of the main issues Jordan objects to since Kushner has said that Jerusalem is the capital of Israel. King Abdullah will never agree to this, and has openly declared his position in recent days. In an article published by Al-Ghad newspaper, Jordanian politicians called for serious thinking about the dangers of the deal, its impact on Jordan and Palestine, self-restraint, supporting the kings three Nos, and assertion of legitimacy for Muslim and Christian holy sites in Palestine. Former foreign minister Kamel Abu Jaber said Jordan cannot avoid the deal, suggesting that Jordan must remain calm, open minded and think long and deep about what Jordan should do because we will be victimised by the deal. Mohamed Masalha, director of the Political Science Society, said it is apparent that a two-state solution and Jerusalem are off the table, even though both are at the core of Jordanian demands on the Palestinian issue. Masalha believes cohesion on the domestic front will strengthen the steadfastness of the Palestinian people. Former cabinet member Tayseer Al-Sammadi said the main issue is how to postpone the deal, since Washington and Tel Aviv insist on implementing it. Postponement could be possible if Jordan asked for time to carry out domestic reforms, including parliamentary elections, because any decision on the future of Jordan must be ratified by parliament. Israel already postponed the deal until elections there. We will be presented with the Deal of the Century by officials who have no idea what they are talking about, which is rather unusual, Sammadi added. *A version of this article appears in print in the 9 May, 2019 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly under the headline: Jordan and the Deal of the Century Search Keywords: Short link: The ruling Zanu-PF party chairperson, Cde Oppah Muchinguri who is leading a delegation of the revolutionary party on a tour in China has said Zimbabwe is under political and economic siege from its detractors that are bent on disrupting President Emmerson Mnangagwas reforms. Cde Muchinguri said this during a meeting with Minister of the International Department of the Communist Party of China Mr Song Tao yesterday, drawing parallels with other countries that have been targeted for destabilisation by the United States of America and its western allies. We are really under siege, after what has happened in Venezuela, what has happened in Libya, we remain cautious because we continue to be under serious bashing, even on social media, she said. After having won the elections resoundingly with a two thirds majority, the opposition remains adamant, challenging the decision of the people of Zimbabwe. They still maintain their agenda of wanting to unseat a democratically elected Government. They still maintain their agenda of wanting to unseat a democratically elected Government. The opposition continues working very closely with 35 000 NGOs which are being funded fully by America and also by Britain and EU. Whatever efforts the new Government tries to put in place for economic recovery programmes, the NGOs are going behind our back to fund our own communities, giving them US dollars to fight Governments social and economic programmes, they make the people feel that it is the NGOs that have better solutions than Government, she said. Cde Muchinguri said Zanu-PF, which had sent one of its most powerful delegation to China in recent times, is focused on building the party and reinvigorating its ideological standpoints. She said the CPC which is Zanu-PFs key ally is crucial in helping the party to pursue its goal of achieving economic development under President Mnangagwas leadership. We are here on the realisation that China is our largest and also a key international ally in our development since the time of our liberation struggle. We continue to enjoy fraternal and cordial relations between the two countries. We are here on the realisation that China is our largest and also a key international ally in our development since the time of our liberation struggle. We continue to enjoy fraternal and cordial relations between the two countries. We are a new republic that has renewed vigour to develop our party and also develop our country. I want to report that our party is now stronger and with the new vision of His Excellency, the people of Zimbabwe are united and its possible for our economic development to take shape. On our economy, the President has said less politics and more of the economy. He has opened up the economy for business and we made sure that the 51 to 40 indigenisation policy that scared investors was addressed. In his remarks Minister Song said Chinas remarkable economic development has been masterminded by the CPC, which has supremacy over the Government. He encouraged Zanu-PF to ensure that stability is maintained in Zimbabwe. You should adhere to a people centred development approach, development is by the people for the people. We take peoples aspirations for a better life as the goal of the whole party. In development we have always adhered to reform and opening up. We want to emulate development through reform. We have to strike a balance between stability, reform and development. Without stability there is no development. Mr Song urged Zanu-PF to fight corruption and indiscipline. A party must have very clear and ideological guidelines. Through building socialism in China, we have realised that our guiding principles and ideology is guided by President Xi Jinpings thoughts. We must seek to govern the party with strict discipline that will make the party pure and advanced. You should show zero tolerance on corruption. We must have cadres that have professional competency, loyalty and responsibility to implement the right positions of the party. A party should cause institutional building to manage financial and personal affairs and keep the exercise of power within the cage of institutions. After the meeting with Minister Song, Cde Muchinguri and her delegation proceeded to hold closed door discussions with Minister Wei Fenghe and deputy Minister of the CPC International Department Guo Ye Zhou. The Zanu-PF delegation comprises Cdes Engelbert Rugeje (National Political Commissar), Simbarashe Mumbengegwi (Secretary for External Affairs), Mabel Chinomona (Secretary for Womens League), Paul Mangwana (Secretary for Legal Affairs), Lovemore Matuke (Secretary for Security), Pupurai Togarepi (Secretary for Youth Affairs), Munyaradzi Machacha (Principal of the Chitepo Ideological College), Douglas Mahiya (Deputy Secretary for War Veterans). Responsible cellphone use is a topic that grows and changes as technology does, so the subject has been a continuing discussion in the Fairbanks school district. Christine Dyer, an English teacher at Lathrop High School, turned the topic into an end of the year project for her freshman class. It is the students job to research how cellphones affect people from elementary students to parents and create public service announcements by working with local media. What would Atticus do? she asked her class during Fridays allotted time for ninth grade English. Dyer is using the PSA project to help her class connect to themes from To Kill a Mockingbird. In an interview, Dyer said the students have been discussing choices this semester. In their poetry unit, she said they went over choices in reading, writing and audience perception. This unit led up to Romeo and Juliet and discussion of fate versus choice, and finally to their current book, To Kill a Mockingbird. In line with the lessons from To Kill a Mockingbird, Dyer said she wanted to give the students a chance to stand in other peoples shoes. The PSAs the ninth graders are working on are intended to target young children and their parents, not high schoolers. So, How are you going to see things from a parents point of view or How are you going to see things from a little kid point of view? she said. Because the other part of To Kill a Mockingbird is the idea that any single person that you see in your life can be a teacher to you in some way. By combining their lessons from literature, Dyer said the project not only gives the students a chance to be teachers to children, as well as to parents, but it also gives them the opportunity to learn about managing their own behavior with cellphones. Phone research The teaching aspect of the project brings in another element: Kelly Scanlons third grade class from Barnette Magnet School. Her students came to visit Friday. PSA Students in Christine Dyers ninth grade English class at Lathrop High School are working on PSAs with local media groups, aiming to responsib Students are looking at creating information for a variety of possible platforms, so the ninth grade class is broken into groups for research, as well as PSAs for print, radio and television. The high schoolers went around the room to interview third graders, as well as caregivers who came along, to gather more cellphone information for their PSAs. As the classes mingled, various groups could be heard asking questions like Whats your relationship with your phone? and You play any games? Previously, the ninth and third graders worked together for a poetry unit. Scanlon said her class was eager to work with the high schoolers again, many asking where their buddies were at. She also said the timing of the project was good. Weve had some major cellphone problems in our class, and so this worked really well with just awareness of cellphone use, she said. The classes are collaborating in part because of an email Scanlon sent out to parents in January after students were gifted smartphones over winter break. Dyers son is in Scanlons class, so she and her husband received the email as well. David Dyer is an instructional technology teacher for the school district. Hes been giving presentations on technology to help educate school district staff, parents and teachers. I think that one of the ways I originally got this started is I noticed how the temptation to pick up the device is so difficult to manage, he said. There must be something much deeper going on there. In his research on the topic, he said hes found that schools try to have an external control by taking phones away or letting students keep them but in an inaccessible pouch. Dyer said he is interested in finding ways to turn the phones into something that can aid in productivity. He worked with the high schoolers in the research group earlier in the week to help them find good sources for PSA information. Once they get a little information behind them, they start to become very passionate about their ideas and the issue, and thats the best thing you can ask for in a research project, is for them to take ownership of the topic, he said. Class habits The subject of cellphones in the classroom varies depending on what issues are arising. In the third grade class, Scanlon said there were fights between students over texting and problems with phone calls at inappropriate times. PSA Students in Christine Dyers ninth grade English class at Lathrop High School are working on PSAs with local media groups, aiming to responsib All that was happening outside of school, she said, but then it would come into school. And so we really had to do a lot of educating about how things sound over text compared to how we want them to sound, and how thats so just much room for fighting when we should just talk about things face to face. Scanlon said the cellphone situation in her class is better now. Students put their phones in her desk before class begins and take them out when leaving. She said she tries to model good behavior for them as well, putting her phone away during class and letting students know if she has to take a phone call. Dyer said the phone issues in her class arent usually problems like texting or phone calls. Sometimes she said students will get distracted playing games. One desk near the window has the best light in the room, and she said she has watched students sit at it and start fixing their clothes and hair in their phone cameras. Furthermore, technology has become part of the students everyday lives to the point Dyer said teachers can no longer simply confiscate a phone for the day. I mean its in our school policy that a teacher can take a phone, but that would cause such huge ramifications, she said. Since beginning the project, however, Dyer said shes noticed her class participating more in the research and getting excited about their options for PSAs, as well as their work with media outlet professionals who have visited the classroom. These classes are just amazing, she said. I mean, just to see them all so engaged. Discussion Parents attended Dyers Friday class as well in order to lend some of their perspective to students developing their PSAs. Jenn Williams said she was surprised by how many of the third graders have phones. Her own kids, ages 5 and 9, are limited in what technology they can access. I think of that as being like a generic thing that not all kids get cellphone time, she said, but the third graders definitely demonstrated to me that that is not the case. Williams said she thinks the phones can be a social limitation, as well cause problems such as cyberbullying through social media without parents even realizing there is a problem. I think that even as diligent as parents think they can be, theyre not as diligent as they need to be, she said. Juliet Eames has six children, ranging in age from 3 to 14. She said she thought she was good about monitoring her children until her son showed her incognito mode is available on browsers to enable private web browsing that doesnt show up in search history. I had no idea and I thought my house had been locked down more or less like Fort Knox, Eames said. None of Eames children has a cellphone. However, she said her kids have friends who know about phones, so they learn about it, whereas she doesnt have the time to sit down and figure out everything there is to know. Im pedaling backwards, she said. Theyre pedaling forwards. Some of the questions students asked during class included questions about parental controls, how the adults felt leaving phones at home, at what age they think kids should start having phones and what they use their phones for. Both Williams and Eames left at the conclusion of Fridays class, having had long discussions with both the high schoolers and the third graders. I love that shes doing this, Eames said. When I first saw the email come out to the third grade class that this was a problem I laughed and then also thought: This is horrible. She added that shes happy to see the discussion that has arisen in the school district. Shes already attended a meeting at a local elementary school about how cellphone use is impacting school performance, and she brought her sons along with her. I love that this conversation is happening with the very kids that its affecting the most, she said. How fantastic. Contact staff writer Kyrie Long at 459-7572. 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. Prosecutors have announced the non-prosecution of two male students at a school that teaches the art of picking up women over the alleged rape of a woman last year, reports Fuji News Network In the early morning hours of March 2, 2018, the suspects a dentist Naoya Sawada, 26, and corporate executive Takemichi Goto, 49 a are alleged to have sexually assaulted a woman, aged in her 20s, at a residence in Osaka Cityas Chuo Ward after forcing her to consume large quantities of alcohol. Because the woman was rendered helpless by the alcohol, police accused the suspects of quasi-coerced intercourse. At the time of the arrest of the suspects in April, Sawada admitted to the allegations. However, Goto denied the charges. On Wednesday, prosecutors at the Tokyo District Public Prosecutoras Office announced that the suspects were not prosecuted. No reason for the non-prosecution was given. Naoya Sawada Naoya Sawada (Twitter) Among students at the academy, the residence used in the crime was known as aOsaka Housea in discussions about where to bring women, police said previously. Prior to the incident, the suspects met the woman at a club in Osaka City. They then forced her to consume alcohol in the clubas VIP room before taking her to the residence. Persons connected to the academy have been arrested in six other cases, one of which also resulted in the non-prosecution of the suspects. A suicide bomber killed several people in a marketplace in the Sadr City district of Baghdad, the Iraqi military said on Thursday. It did not provide precise casualty figures. The bomber was surrounded by security forces before detonating an explosive belt, the Baghdad Operations Command said in a statement. Search Keywords: Short link: U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has postponed his visit to Greenland because he needs to return to Washington, the State Department said on Thursday. Secretary Pompeo must postpone his visit to Greenland due to a need for the secretary to be in Washington, D.C., today, spokeswoman Mortgan Ortagus said. Pompeo had been due to visit Greenland on Thursday, but left London bound for Washington instead. U.S. President Donald Trump on Wednesday imposed new sanctions on Iran, targeting revenue from its exports of industrial metals, the latest salvo in tensions between Washington and Tehran over a 2015 international accord curbing the Islamic Republics nuclear programme. Pompeo told Britain on Wednesday it needed to change its attitude towards China and telecoms company Huawei, casting the worlds second largest economy as a threat to the West similar to that once posed by the Soviet Union. Search Keywords: Short link: The court of appeal in Abuja has ruled that Gboyega Oyetola of the All Progressives Congress (APC) is the winner of the Osun state g... The court of appeal in Abuja has ruled that Gboyega Oyetola of the All Progressives Congress (APC) is the winner of the Osun state governorship election. At its sitting on Thursday, the appellate court nullified the judgement of the election tribunal declaring Ademola Adeleke of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) winner of the election. Adeleke was declared winner by the election tribunal after he went to court to challenge the election victory of Oyetola, as announced by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). The tribunal ruled that the rerun election conducted in the state after the initial poll was illegal. Joseph Fuwape, the returning officer, declared that Oyetola won with a total of 255,505 votes while Adeleke polled 255,023 votes. But the tribunal had ruled that Oyetola was not validly returned as the winner of the election. It had said the rerun which finally produced Oyetola as winner was the outcome of the illegal cancellation of results in some of the polling units during the main election. It also held that the returning officer lacked the power to cancel the votes in affected polling units. APPEAL COURT SET ALL THAT ASIDE At the appellate court, one of Oyetolas major contentions is that the judgement of the tribunal was a judicial hearsay. He argued that Peter Obiorah who read the tribunals judgement was not fully active in the court of the tribunals proceeding. He recalled that the judge had been absent at one of the tribunals sitting on February 6 but that the proceedings of that day formed part of his lead judgement. He, therefore, urged the court to nullify the tribunals judgement and uphold his victory as declared by INEC. Delivering the lead judgment endorsed by four of a five-member panel, Jummai Sankey upheld Oyetolas argument and ruled he remains the authentic winner of the election. He held that Obiorahs absence at the tribunals sitting nullified the entire proceedings as well as its earlier judgement. One of the members of the panel George Mbaba however, disagreed from the majority judgment. A day after the breaking of Kano emirate into five, the states anti-graft agency has grilled an aide to Muhammad Sanusi II over alleg... A day after the breaking of Kano emirate into five, the states anti-graft agency has grilled an aide to Muhammad Sanusi II over allegations of financial misappropriation. Isa Bayero, who also served as chief aide to Ado Bayero, Sanusis predecessor, told reporters on Thursday about his appearance before the Kano Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission. He said: When I appeared before the investigating panel, I was presented with some documents which I went through and I requested for more time to study and return them. if I am able to go through the documents today, I will call back the following day to face the panel for further interrogation. I was not given any specific time to report butif I am able to go through the documents today, I will call back the following day to face the panel for further interrogation. Isa said he was quizzed and asked to report back on Friday which some documents. He said he was confident that truth will prevail at the end of the day. Only Bayero appeared before the panel on Thursday. The three invitees Mohammad Sani Kwaru, the accountant, Mannir Sanusi, the chief of staff, Danburan Mujittafa and Falakin Kano did not honour the invitation. On Monday, we reported that the governor of Kano state, Abdullahi Ganduje, had concluded plans to break up the emirate under Sanusi into five. There are also plans to depose him as the emir of Kano. On Wednesday a day after the bill was introduced to the house of assembly it was passed into law breaking up the emirate. Key suspected abductors of President Muhammadu Buharis in-law, Magajin Garin Daura, Alhaji Musa Umar Uba have been arrested. The... Key suspected abductors of President Muhammadu Buharis in-law, Magajin Garin Daura, Alhaji Musa Umar Uba have been arrested. The Chief of Naval Staff, Rear Admiral Ibok Ekwe Ibas disclosed this at the end of a security meeting with President Muhammadu Buhari at the State House, Abuja today. Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha, National Security Adviser, Babagana Monguno; Minister of Defence, Mansur Dan- Ali ,Director-General of the National Intelligence Agency (NIA), Ahmed Abubakar, acting Inspector General of Police, Mohammed Adamu and the Director General of Department for State Service (DSS), Yusuf Magaji Bichi. Members of the security council are; Chief of Defence Staff, General Gabriel Olonisakin, Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai, Chief of Naval Staff, Rear Admiral Ibok Ekwe Ibas and Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshall Abubakar Sadique. Others are, theSecretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha, National Security Adviser, Babagana Monguno; Minister of Defence, Mansur Dan- Ali ,Director-General of the National Intelligence Agency (NIA), Ahmed Abubakar, acting Inspector General of Police, Mohammed Adamu and theDirector General of Department for State Service (DSS), Yusuf Magaji Bichi. Ibas who spoke on behalf of his colleagues told State House Correspondents that in a short while those behind the crime would be brought to book. Serious efforts are being made. Key suspects have been arrested and it is hoped that in a short while those behind that crime will be brought to book, he said. Uba who is a senior traditional title holder in Daura Emirate Council was kidnapped on Wednesday 1st of this month at his Daura residence. The House of Representatives on Wednesday resolved to investigate the Muhammadu Buhari led Federal Governments Presidential Amnesty Pr... The House of Representatives on Wednesday resolved to investigate the Muhammadu Buhari led Federal Governments Presidential Amnesty Programme which seeks to quell armed struggles by Niger Delta agitators for a better deal in the nations oil-producing areas. The resolution was a sequel to the adoption of a motion sponsored by Hon.Tajudeen Adekunle Obasa (Lagos,PDP) on the matter on the floor of the House. The lawmaker while debating the motion noted that the Presidential Amnesty Programme is a lofty initiative introduced by the Federal Government to quell armed struggles by Niger Delta agitators for a better deal in Nigerias oil-producing areas. He further noted that the programmes cardinal objective is to grant pardon to Agitators and to rehabilitate them through productive ventures in order to build capacities and competence in the youths of the Niger Delta region. He said: informed that since the proclamation of the Amnesty Programme, the Federal Government has spent a lot of resources in training many youths and area boys both locally and internationally; and recently the Federal Government paid the sum of N8.5 billion into the Presidential Amnesty Programmes TSA Account for the execution of this lofty idea. The lawmaker, therefore, expressed concerns noting that media reports and outcry of massive looting at the Kaiama Amnesty Center between 14 and 16 February 2019 were security agents, the coordinator of center and unknown persons were alleged to have carted away equipment worth billions of Naira in the Starter Pack wharehouse allegedly to the knowledge of the Special Adviser to the President on Amnesty. He added that media reports of massive corruption and outright embezzlement of funds meant for execution of the programmes objectives hence it became imperative to investigate these allegations for good of the Niger Delta people and the nation at large. Moreover, the PDP lawmaker expressed concerns noting that failure of the House to act timeously could lead to the Amnesty Programme to suffer wreckage and the essence of the programme eroded. Consequently, the House presided by the Speaker Hon. Yakubu Dogara put the matter to a voice vote which was overwhelmingly voted for. Atiku Abubakar, presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has asked President Muhammadu Buhari to take responsibil... Atiku Abubakar, presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has asked President Muhammadu Buhari to take responsibility for the insecurity across the country. Reacting to a report by a US based Centre for Diplomacy and Democracy accusing him of having a hand in the killings, Atiku said there is no such centre in the US, describing it as a fabrication of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). He asked Buhari to rise up to the task and stop blaming the opposition. No such body called Centre for Diplomacy and Democracy exists, he said in a statement Paul Ibe, his media adviser, issued on his behalf on Thursday. Americans will never write Centre. They will write Center in conformity to American English usage. This is the deepest low that Muhammadu Buhari administration has gone in causing further division and promoting instability in Nigeria. Anyone versed enough in the protocol of international NGOs will discern without much ado that the particular report by a faceless, insipid organisation known as Centre for Diplomacy and Democracy was contrived with express mobilisation from officials of the Buhari administration in a shameless and disingenuous attempt to find a jejune explanation for the rising rate of insecurity in Nigeria. It is so distasteful that the Buhari administration, rather than have a self-introspection and admit to the world that its policies and actions are responsible for the divisions in the country with the manifestation of all manner of crimes such as banditry, kidnapping and wanton killings across the land chooses to employ the service of a faceless NGO to blame the opposition for its own ineptitude. Tackling the president over his comment that Mohammed Adamu, the inspector-general of police (IGP), had lost weight due to his hard work, Atiku said the Buhari administration and the APC are renowned for propaganda stunt and double-speak. In their warped thinking, the performance rate of security chiefs during times like this is determined on how much weight the Inspector General of Police has lost, he said. The question to ask is: how would the APC have reproved a president who makes such careless remarks on national security at a time when insecurity in the country has assumed epidemic proportions? President Buhari and the APC have shown without equivocation that the job at hand is overwhelming for them. And because they lack the basic clue of how to tame the bogey that they have created, they now scamper around like school kids who have caused an upset in a highly sensitive science laboratory. Femi Falana, human rights lawyer, is challenging the Nigerian navy over its claim that it does not know the whereabouts of 15 citizens... Femi Falana, human rights lawyer, is challenging the Nigerian navy over its claim that it does not know the whereabouts of 15 citizens who have been detained for seven months without trial. Suleman Dahun, navys director of information, on Monday had said that the detainees disappeared from custody. We dont know where they are, PUNCH had quoted him to have said. The detainees, including Dada Labinjo, a navy captain, and Sherifat Ibe Lambert (also known as Mrs Bola Labinjo), a lt. commander, have been in detention since September 2018 for an undisclosed offence. In a statement on Wednesday, Falana asked why the navy would deny their whereabouts and yet apply to the court to continue to detain them. My attention has been drawn to the sadistic denial of the whereabouts of the 15 military and civilian personnel who have been held incommunicado by the Nigerian Navy since September 2018, Falana said. the magistrate ordered their immediate and unconditional release from custody on January 7, 2019? Since the whereabouts of the detainees are not known, why did the navy file counter-affidavits in opposition to the application for the release of Captain Dada Labinjo and Lt. Commander Bola Labinjo from further detention? As their whereabouts are unknown why did the navy apply to the chief magistrates court in Apapa, Lagos for an order to detain them? Why did the navy not deny the whereabouts of the detainees whenthe magistrate ordered their immediate and unconditional releasefrom custody on January 7, 2019? Since the whereabouts of the detainees are not known, why did the navy file counter-affidavits in opposition tothe application for the release of Captain Dada Labinjo and Lt. Commander Bola Labinjo from further detention? to react to the application for the enforcement of the fundamental right of Mr. Benjamin Gold? For goodness sake, at what stage did the detainees disappear from the custody of the Navy? Why has the navy filed a motion for stay of execution of the order of the federal high court for the immediate release of Lt. Commander Bola Banjo? Why did the Navy apply for an adjournmentto react to the application for the enforcement of the fundamental right of Mr. Benjamin Gold? For goodness sake, at what stage did the detainees disappear from the custody of the Navy? The senior lawyer also shared copies of the court documents ordering the release of the detainees. Earlier, the lawyer had raised the alarm over their detention, calling on Abubakar Malami, attorney-general of the federation (AGF), to take action against the naval authorities over the violations of the fundamental rights of the detainees. When Dahun was reached out to over the issue, he only said: I will get back to you, but he never did and subsequently refused to comment on the matter. Britain's Brexit minister on Thursday condemned "lazy thinking" about the country's divorce from the European Union, urging Brussels to be ambitious in future cooperation, particularly on security issues. As EU leaders met in Romania to debate the bloc's future without Britain, Steve Barclay used a side event to urge them to move on from the "Nigel Farage little-Englander portrayal of Brexit". Barclay pleaded with the EU to look beyond the bitter wrangling in Westminster over the divorce deal and focus on the potential for future cooperation. "From my generation of politicians within the UK, Brexit was an opportunity of confidence, of optimism, a desire to be more global," Barclay said. "It certainly wasn't the Nigel Farage little-Englander portrayal of Brexit and I think too often there is lazy thinking to be frank on Brexit and a failure to look at that longer term relationship between the UK and Europe." Britain was due to leave the EU on March 29 but the departure has been delayed twice as Prime Minister Theresa May struggles to get her withdrawal agreement approved by parliament. Her government is in talks with the opposition Labour Party to find a compromise to clear the logjam and allow Brexit to go ahead. The EU summit in the Transylvanian town of Sibiu is aimed at charting the future of the union after Brexit, and in the run-up there was palpable relief among officials that Britain's tortuous exit from the bloc would not dominate discussions. May is not attending the summit but Barclay briefed EU ministers and MEPs on the sidelines on the state of the cross-party talks as well as Britain's plans for European elections later this month. Search Keywords: Short link: Egypts President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi has issued a decree approving a framework agreement with China, according to which Beijing will offer a soft loan to Cairo with a total value not exceeding 4.604 million yuan (around $674,000). The agreement was signed in Beijing on 1 September 2018 and passed by the House of the Representatives on 15 January 2019. The loan will be given through the Export-Import Bank of China to the Egyptian Ministry of Transport, represented by the National Authority for Tunnels, to be used in implementing a railway project in 10th of Ramadan City. The decree was published in the official state gazette on Thursday. Search Keywords: Short link: ABC/Randy HolmesThe Black Keys have conquered a new chart. The Akron, Ohio duo's new single "Lo/Hi" currently sits at number one on Billboard's Mainstream Rock Songs chart, marking the first time they've ever led that tally. They previously peaked at number five on the ranking in 2012 with "Lonely Boy." Meanwhile, over on Billboard's Alternative Songs chart, where The Keys have historically had more success, "Lo/Hi" currently occupies the number-two spot, behind only Twenty One Pilots' "Chlorine." If the song were to reach number one on Alternative Songs as well, that'd give Dan Auerbach and Patrick Carney their fifth leader on the chart, following "Lonely Boy," "Fever," "Gold on the Ceiling" and "Tighten Up." "Lo/Hi" is the lead single from the upcoming new Black Keys album Let's Rock, due out June 28. It's the follow-up to 2014's Turn Blue. The Black Keys will launch a North American tour behind Let's Rock in September with support from Modest Mouse. Copyright 2019, ABC Radio. All rights reserved. For the second time in less than a month, Jason D. GreenblattUS President Donald Trump's Assistant and Special Representative for International Negotiationsdenied reports that a portion of Egypt's Sinai would be given to Gaza as part of a Middle East peace deal. "Oddly, I am still hearing reports about this my original tweet still stands", Greenblatt tweeted on Wednesday, referring to a tweet he posted last month. "Hearing reports our plan includes the concept that we will give a portion of Sinai (which is Egypts) to Gaza. False! Please dont believe everything you read. Surprising & sad to see how people who dont know whats in the plan make up & spread fake stories," Greenblatt wrote on Twitter on 19 April. The new tweet by Greenblatt came after a report by Israel Hayom, an Israeli newspaper, which claimed that it received a copy of the deal proposed by Trump's administration, widely known as the "deal of the century." Egypt, according to Hayom, would lease new lands to a new Palestinian state, and that an airport, factories and agricultural and trade areas will be built. However, the Palestinians would not be allowed to build homes on these lands. The size of the lands and their price would be in accordance with an agreement between the parties involved in the deal. The newspaper also added that the document stipulates that the borders of the Gaza Strip with Egypt and Israel would be opened for the movement of goods and people. Greenblatt has visited several countries in the Middle East in the last two years as an envoy of President Trump to push the US president's view for comprehensive peace in the region. Search Keywords: Short link: Are the Oslo Accords set to be the first victim of the Deal of the Century, and if so, at what cost, asks Said Okasha Referring to reports of Israeli intentions to annex parts of the West Bank on which Israeli settlements have been built, US Presidential Adviser Jared Kushner indicated that the US had not yet discussed this subject with Israel but that it would do so after Israeli Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu forms a government. What this means, firstly, is that the US is open to and prepared to accept such a step, and secondly, that Israel is planning on an almost certain Palestinian rejection of the Deal of the Century that Washington is expected to unveil after Netanyahu forms a government, and that the plan involves the unilateral annexation of around 60 per cent of the West Bank. Thirdly, it means that Kushner, himself, is now certain that the Palestinians cannot regard the Deal of the Century as a solution to their cause regardless of the enticements on offer and that the major Arab powers will not pressure the Palestinians into discussing it. The unifying thread here is to be found in a line of Israeli strategic thinking that dates back about 15 years. It holds that, in the event of the lack of a Palestinian peace partner and given Israels unwillingness to govern Palestinian population concentrations in the West Bank and Gaza, the only way to end the conflict with the Palestinians is for Israel to designate its borders unilaterally and let the Palestinians and Arabs decide what to do about the areas that Israel left out, though Israel would reserve the right to pursue the security measures it deems appropriate (in accordance with Israeli law) to defend its security and its self-designated borders. The thinking was embodied in the Convergence Plan announced by former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert (2006-2009) and it looks like this plan will form the basis of Israels actions should the Deal of the Century fall through. Describing the Convergence Plan during the Israeli-Hamas war in December 2008, Olmert said that the purpose of the plan was to separate Israel and the Palestinians so as to give the Palestinians an independent state, although if the Qassam rockets continue, we will be forced to take unilateral measures. He added: This is the only solution for the Palestinians. It is also the only way we can ensure safe borders. How Netanyahu would implement the plan practically is another matter. What would be his map for consolidating Israels West Bank settlements to prepare them for annexation? One scenario ventures that it would only include the settlements around Greater Jerusalem which account for about 10 per cent of the area of the West Bank. Other scenarios predict that the map would also incorporate more remote settlements and, together with the security belts, ultimately comprise more than half of the West Bank. What is certain is that Netanyahu will exploit the Palestinians rejection of the Deal of the Century to stage a second annexation scenario and that he will do it in a manner to cater to the extremist right-wing parties that will join him in a coalition government. Netanyahu will simultaneously be acting on the conviction that Palestinian rejection of the Trump administrations plan to end the Palestinian-Israeli conflict will guarantee Washingtons support for any Israeli step to permanently annex large chunks of the West Bank. But there remain certain matters that cannot be overlooked, such as the fate of the Oslo Accords signed between Israel and the PLO in 1993. In officially annexing portions of the West Bank, Israel will have unilaterally withdrawn from that agreement and caused its collapse. The Palestinians will rightfully be able to claim that Israel reneged on its obligations under the accords, which prohibits any alteration to the legal status of the areas under dispute with the Palestinians until the two sides reach an agreement over the borders between Israel and the Palestinian state that was to be proclaimed following the interim period (which the agreement had set to end in 1999). This legal problem might lead Trump to withdraw Washingtons recognition of the Oslo Accords, using the Palestinian rejection of his deal as a pretext. After all, Washington will be unable to reconcile its ongoing recognition of the principles of the Oslo Accords with its potential recognition of the borders Israel designates for itself unilaterally. Moreover, Israel and even the Palestinian Authority will find themselves facing the same dilemma. The Oslo Accords legitimises the Palestinian Authority as the official representative of the Palestinian people. Should that agreement collapse, that capacity will revert to the PLO (Palestine Liberation Organisation). Will the US and Israel then retract their recognition of the PLO as the sole legitimate representative of the Palestinian people? To do so would trigger an unprecedentedly fierce rivalry between the Palestinian Islamist movements (Hamas and the Islamic Jihad) to establish their militant legitimacy which would generate huge security challenges for Israel, especially if Hamas manages to gain control over the portions of the West Bank that Israel left outside its borders. Could Israel and the US withstand such a nightmarish scenario? Worse yet, could Washington withstand the repercussions of this scenario on the security of the entire Middle East? *A version of this article appears in print in the 9 May, 2019 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly under the headline: Kushner and the West Bank Search Keywords: Short link: Less than one-third of the student body came to class today at Kingwood Park High School, Humble ISD Superintendent Dr. Elizabeth Fagen confirmed in an interview today, May 8. Kingwood Park had significant impact from the storm that occurred yesterday, May 7, with some students stranded on campus past 10 p.m. The entire district attendance, however, was impacted by the effects of yesterday's storm. Fagen said on a regular school day, those campuses are at 95% or higher. "Our district average is normally 95% but today we are at 83%," she said. Fagen also said that the high school STAAR and AP testing are rescheduled for Thursday, May 9, and Friday, May 10. Fagen made the decision to hold school today, but announced that it was understandable that some students and staff would remain at home, especially those who were stranded on campuses yesterday waiting for the flood waters to subside. "Our goal today was to open our doors, particularly in Kingwood, and to offer excused absences to those who decided to stay at home. We achieved that goal," she said. "We felt it better that everyone had the chance to get home safely," she said. "No one wants to repeat yesterday. The computer models used by the meteorologists are not in agreement. The air mass over Houston is unstable and little storms can easily appear. Weather reports state that the Kingwood area received 10-plus inches of rain in six hours yesterday, causing massive and widespread street flooding. Motorists abandoned their vehicles throughout the community. Street lights were inoperable and parents were hours late picking up their children. Valmet to Supply Tissue Production Line to Faderco in Algeria The new tissue machine will have a width of 2.8 meters and a design speed of 2,000 m/min. It will add 30,000 tons tissue paper per year to Faderco's current production capacity. May 9, 2019 - Valmet will supply a complete Advantage DCT 100HS tissue production line to Faderco in Algeria. The order also includes a rewinder and an extensive automation package including process and quality control solutions. The value of the order will not be disclosed. The new line will be installed at the company's mill, Warak, in Setif, Algeria. Valmet has previously supplied an Advantage DCT100+ tissue line to the mill, which started up in 2015. The new tissue line will fulfill Faderco's need of new capacity for tissue products. The Warak mill currently produces baby diapers, sanitary napkins, adult diapers and tissue paper for the domestic market and surrounding countries. The new line will support Faderco's ambition to consolidate its position as the Algerian leader in the sector by reaching 35 percent of market share in 2019. The new tissue machine will have a width of 2.8 meters and a design speed of 2,000 m/min. It will add 30,000 tons tissue paper per year to Faderco's current production of tissue products. "The investment in Valmet's Advantage DCT technology, the new complex, will boost our production and support our ambition to reach the position as the 5th exporter in the Mediterranean region. We are already present in Morocco, Tunisia, Libya, Mauritania, Senegal, Togo, Mali, Guinea Conakry and Qatar, among others," says Amor Habes, CEO, Faderco. Complete installation supervision, training, start-up and commissioning are also part of the delivery. Start-up of the new machine is planned for June 2020. About Faderco Warak Founded in 1986, Faderco is an Algerian company with more than 1,800 employees, 11 brands in 7 strategic business areas and 2 subsidiaries. The company produces baby diapers, adult diapers and paper products in the industrial complex at Setif, opened in July 2012. In addition, the company has another production facility in Algiers. With both wholesale and direct sales, Faderco's commercial coverage is 80% of the Algerian national territory. The company exports products to other countries in Northwest Africa and sub-Sahara. Valmet is a leading global developer and supplier of process technologies, automation and services for the pulp, paper and energy industries. To learn more, please visit: www.valmet.com SOURCE: Valmet Earlier today, it was announced that a generic version of Truvada a PrEP pill used to prevent HIV infection would be available to the public starting September 2020. The Advocate reports that Gilead Sciences has reached an agreement with the world's largest manufacturer of generic drugs, Teva Pharmaceuticals, to release a generic version of Truvada one year earlier than the previously-expected 2021 date. According to the Truvada website, when taken once a day, the pill is 90 percent effective at preventing the transmission of the HIV virus. It is also used to treat HIV-positive patients in combination with other drugs. That said, Gilead's contentious patent of Truvada has also been at the center of a prominent campaign called #BreakThePatent, which argues that because the pill can cost upwards of $2,000 a month, those at a high risk of contracting the virus i.e. queer people, trans women, young people, and POC are unable to afford it. And this is all despite the fact that Truvada is at the center of the President's "Ending the HIV Epidemic" plan. And while PrEP4All spokesperson Aaron S. Lord, MD, called the early release of the generic drug "a victory for the LGBTQ+ community, for HIV activists, and for U.S. taxpayers," he also questioned the settlement's terms. "Even their announcement today leaves Gilead with exclusive rights to Truvada as PrEP for another 15 months and Teva as the only generic manufacturer on the U.S. market," Lord in a statement, per The Advocate. "This will do little to reduce price in a way that will increase access, and PrEP4All remains suspicious of the terms and lack of transparency surrounding the Teva settlement." Grim Outlook For Iran Nuclear Deal 05/09/19 By Peter Jenkins (source: LobeLog) Iran's President Hassan Rouhani Iran's patience with Europe's feeble submission to one of the most villainous U.S. administrations of all time finally ran out on May 8. That day President Hassan Rouhani told the European parties to the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), via remarks at a session of his Cabinet, that henceforth Iranian performance of certain of the agreement's commitments would be conditional on European performance of all its commitments. The European non-performances that he seemed to have in mind are the cessation of purchases of Iranian oil and the withdrawal of bank financing for trade with Iran. Both these non-performances are a consequence of a Trump administration threat to sanction any European entities purchasing Iranian oil or engaging in financial transactions with Iranian entities. European governments are now in a very awkward situation. They can threaten the United States with retaliation for any U.S. sanctions imposed on European entities in the Iranian context in the hope that the United States will relent and provide waivers for European oil purchases and the financing of trade with Iran (beyond the very narrow range of goods envisaged under the INSTEX initiative). Until now there has been no sign of the EU having the guts to do this. However, on May 3, speaking about Cuba, the EU's foreign policy chief said that "the EU considers the extra-territorial application of unilateral restrictive measures to be contrary to international law and will draw on all appropriate measures." Reuters reported this as a threat to retaliate and/or initiate dispute settlement proceedings at the World Trade Organisation (WTO). After going through the steps provided by Article 36 of the JCPOA-to which President Rouhani referred in the course of his remarks-the Europeans can notify the UN Security Council that Iran is no longer performing all of its JCPOA commitments. This would make the Trump administration's day, since the Security Council would then have to vote on whether to continue suspending pre-2016 UN sanctions, and it would only take a U.S. veto to bring that suspension to an end. An Iranian pull-out from the JCPOA would almost certainly ensue, and the nuclear non-proliferation cause (to which the Trump administration seems remarkably indifferent) would suffer. A third option would be to tolerate Iranian non-performance of the commitments President Rouhani mentioned in the hope of retaining Iran as a party and preserving the enhanced access to Iranian nuclear activities that the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has enjoyed since 2015. This would hardly be a low-risk option. The odds are that Iran would respond by escalating its non-performance to a point at which the JCPOA ceased to have much, if any, nuclear non-proliferation value. This unenviable situation is partly of the Europeans' own making. They should not have ruled out, as they did within weeks of President Trump's declaration of economic war on Iran a year ago, the option of retaliating if the United States failed to exclude Europe from the threat of extraterritorial sanctions. They should not have compounded that mistake by taking every opportunity-the French in particular-to echo U.S. rhetorical attacks on Iranian missile testing (a sovereign right, not outlawed by the UN) and so-called malign regional behavior (the allegation of malignity resting on a hypocritical judgement). The Europeans have soured their once healthy relations with Iran and are now suffering the consequences. Of course, Iran's decision to use non-performance to pressure Europe into confronting its "ally from hell" is not without risk. In due course, Iran may find itself in a position where face can only be saved by pulling out of the JCPOA. That will risk the Trump administration seizing on Iranian withdrawal as a pretext for destroying Iran's military facilities, and perhaps much else (if other pretexts have not been found by then). It will cost Iran most, if not all, of the international prestige it won by signing the JCPOA. It may even lose Iran the backing of Russia and China, which care far more about the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) than does the Trump administration. All in all, it's a grim outlook unless the Europeans can find the courage to confront the Trump administration, so as to return to performance of their JCPOA commitments and preserve a valuable nuclear agreement. About the Author: Peter Jenkins was a British career diplomat for 33 years, following studies at the Universities of Cambridge and Harvard. He served in Vienna (twice), Washington, Paris, Brasilia and Geneva. He specialized in global economic and security issues. His last assignment (2001-06) was that of UK Ambassador to the IAEA and UN (Vienna). Since 2006 he has represented the Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Partnership, advised the Director of IIASA and set up a partnership, The Ambassador Partnership llp, with former diplomatic colleagues, to offer the corporate sector dispute resolution and solutions to cross-border problems. He was an associate fellow of the Geneva Centre for Security Policy from 2010 to 2012. He writes and speaks on nuclear and trade policy issues. U.S. Targets Iranian Steel, Mining Sectors With New Sanctions 05/09/19 Source: RFE/RL The United States has announced new economic sanctions on Iran, targeting its steel and mining industries, as Washington tries to turn up the pressure on Tehran. The move, announced by President Donald Trump on May 8, comes as a U.S. aircraft carrier battle group heads to the waters near Iran, and Secretary of State Mike Pompeo paid an unannounced visit to Iran's neighbor, Iraq. The new sanctions target Iran's steel, copper, aluminum, and mining sectors, all key sources of revenue for the country. An Iranian steel factory in Ahvaz (file photo by ISNA) Washington has already moved to restrict oil exports, the country's largest source of hard currency. "Tehran can expect further actions unless it fundamentally alters its conduct," Trump said in a statement released by the White House. "I look forward to someday meeting with the leaders of Iran in order to work out an agreement and, very importantly, taking steps to give Iran the future it deserves." Earlier on May 8, Iran's president announced that the country will resume high level enrichment of uranium if world powers do not protect its interests against U.S. sanctions. Related tweets: Iranian Foreign Ministry Spokesman @SAMOUSAVI9 lashed out at #Washington for imposing fresh #sanctions on #Iran's metal industry, stressing: ""This is violation of international commitments of the #US regime and levies some international charges on it." pic.twitter.com/vHKKCS4x0K Iran Gov Website (@Iran_GOV) May 9, 2019 The history of voting rights in the United States can be seen as something short of hypocritical. It is said in our founding document, the Declaration of Independence, that all men are created equal- but that famous statement is still debated and criticized today. Brought up in a recent CNN Town Hall debate, Presidential candidate Bernie Sanders said he would like to grant convicted felons and those who are currently incarcerated the right to vote. Fellow candidate Mayor Pete Buttigieg said we should not allow them the right to vote. The idea that someone who has committed a felony should have the right to vote while incarcerated is egregious. Ignoring a persons socio-economic background, the person who committed the felony willingly gave up their rights when they committed the crime. Voting isnt the only right that felons lose. They also lose their right to own firearms, to travel outside of the country, jury duty, and employment in certain professions. This is all severely limiting in a country where every eligible citizen is encouraged to participate in our democratic republic. One of the negative consequences of allowing felons to vote would be the massive swing in voting patterns towards the parties that support the cause, in this case the Democratic Party. Senator Sanders home state of Vermont allows felons to vote while in prison, whereas other states allow released felons the right to vote after a probationary period, but are still hindered by the aforementioned rights. Voting while incarcerated could also prove troublesome to those in charge of the prison system. Internet and media access is limited to those incarcerated and elections rely on informed citizens to be read up on current issues so they may vote accordingly to their views. With limited access to up to date information, the incarcerated would be ill-informed to vote on current issues without significant cramming of information. The Democratic strategy towards this issue is to appeal towards citizens on the national level, sometimes ignoring or unaware of local and state laws that would counter their policies, leading to practical fallacies in their proposed implementation. Republicans, on the other hand, have maintained their conservative influence in a country that does not want to change with the times. This has led to a system that has worked for decades, but has been showing its faults in recent times. The issue of felon voting rights is one that most Americans would be inclined to agree with due to familiarity with the system already in place. Simply put, felons should not be able to vote while in jail. This is not to say that they should not be able to vote at all, but while they are incarcerated their rights should remain revoked until they are released. The current system has been tried and tested and has allowed for our democratic republic to uphold the powers that it has granted its citizens. The central bank has issued a warning to companies, institutions and individuals engaged in businesses in foreign exchange. According to a statement from the Bank of Ghana, the sole legal tender in Ghana is the Ghana Cedi and Ghana pesewa. The statement reminded all and sundry about the Foreign Exchange Act, 2006 (Act 723), which prohibits the pricing, advertising and receipt or payment for goods and services in foreign currency in Ghana. Such violations are punishable by summary conviction, a fine up to seven hundred penalty units or a prison term of not more than eighteen months, or both. Source: 3news.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 Founder, President & Executive Dean of Nobel International Business School (NiBS), Professor Kwaku Atuahene-Gima is proposing the establishment of an agency which will promote the cause of bank customers who suffer abuse. The agency will demand compensation for customers from institutions which abuse their trust and confidence. When customers are given a raw deal or abused by a financial institution, they will report to this agency which will then write to the institution and demand compensation for the affected customers, he explained. Speaking at the Schools maiden breakfast meeting on the theme Rebuilding trust in the banking and financial services industry, at the NiBS campus in Accra, Prof Atuahene-Gima stressed: we need to be creative and see how we can transfer power into the hands of customers. The meeting pooled economists from the University of Ghana Business School, the Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA), representatives from the Banking industry as well as the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The distinguished Professor of Innovation Management & marketing said his school was ready to provide direction through research and discussions to concentrate a lot of power in the hands of the customer to restore trust in the countrys banking and financial services industry. Ghana, a low trust society According to Prof Atuahene-Gima world-wide research had identified some countries as low trust societies and other as high trust societies. If you consider the parameters under which the study was done and discussed, Ghana is certainly a low trust society because people can cheat the system and go unpunished, the NiBS founder said. He pointed out that people take the law into their own hands because they dont trust the system. Paradoxically, in a low trust society, trust becomes really important but in a high trust society, it is not that important because if someone is cheated or abused he or she has recourse to redress, he added. According to him, the problem of mistrust needs creative solutions, saying its not just about regulation; you may have a tight regulation but when customers believe and know that regulation is tight the bankers take advantage and use that to cheat. This is because the customer trusts the regulator. He agreed with some discussants at the meeting who argued that the regulator had to adopt the method of naming and shaming institutions which are found to have abused the trust of customers. Economist, Prof Eric Osei Assibey urged the Bank of Ghana to speed up the formulation of the deposit insurance policy to protect customer funds in the midst of the banking crisis and the collapse of financial institutions. Source: The Finder Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video New York, NY (May 8, 2019) Omnicom Media Group (OMG), the media services division of Omnicom Group Inc. (NYSE: OMC), has named Philippa Brown CEO of PHD Worldwide. Brown, who joins PHD from her role as CEO of Omnicom Media Group UK, succeeds Mike Cooper, who was recently named Group CEO, Omnicom Media Group APAC and EMEA. Since joining Omnicom Media Group in 2007, Brown has led OMG UK through a period of consistent growth and expansion. Overseeing a team of 1600 professionals serving more than 270 clients, she has been a key player in every OMG UK milestone over the past decade, including the UK launch of OMGs newest agency network Hearts & Science; PHDs emergence as one of the UKs most awarded and competitive agencies; and the expansion of OMD UK and Manning Gottlieb OMD, which in 2018 won the UKs largest media review. Philippa is a proven leader and a natural fit to lead PHD globally, says Omnicom Media Group CEO Daryl Simm. As CEO of OMG UK, she has worked closely with Mike Cooper in the original positioning of PHD as a global network, and has been heavily involved in PHDs international client successes. She has singular insight into PHDs culture, the expectations that clients have of the agency, and the ongoing transformation required for success. Prior to joining OMG, Brown spent 10 years at IPC Media, rising to board director. Her previous experience also includes stints at full service DMB&B and BBH. She is known across the industry for her skill in building enduring client relationships as well as her commitment to creating a learning culture that attracts and retains talent. Commenting on her new role, Brown says, Over the past decade, PHD has become one of the most respected agency networks in the industry. Its growth, thought leadership and award-winning work is a testament to Mike Coopers leadership, and the combined contributions of our many talented people all around the world. My job working with all the PHD offices and our clients - is to now build on the great success that has already been achieved. Browns appointment is effective July 1. She will be based in London, reporting to Daryl Simm. ### About Omnicom Media Group Omnicom Media Group (OMG) is the media services division of Omnicom Group Inc. (NYSE: OMC), the leading global advertising, marketing and corporate communications company, providing services to over 5,000 clients in more than 100 countries. Omnicom Media Group includes the full-service media networks Hearts & Science, OMD and PHD; data and analytics platform Annalect Group; performance marketing agency Resolution Media; and a number of specialty media communications companies. About PHD Worldwide PHD Worldwide, an Omnicom Media Group agency, is known globally as an innovator in communications planning and buying across broadcast, print, digital, mobile, social and emerging media, reflected in the network ranking 2nd most awarded network in the world, according to the 2019 Gunn Media 100 report a benchmark of the most creatively awarded agencies and networks. With more than 6,000 staff working in 100 offices worldwide, PHD one of the world's fastest growing media and communication agency networks and was named Media Network of the Year 2018 by Cristal and Eurobest. CONTACT: Isabelle Gauvry [email protected] 917-435-6457 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 Tarkwa circuit court has sentenced a 25-year-old Togolese, to a 10 years imprisonment with hard labour for defiling a 14 -year-old girl he abducted from Togo to Ghana. Duameyo Coffie, alias Kwabena Togo was convicted on his own plea of guilty to child trafficking, abduction and defilement. The facts of the case as presented by Chief Inspector Faustina Celestina Anaman, was that the victim is a school dropout, while the convict is a labourer. According to the prosecution, Duameyo and the victim are both natives of Atakpame in Togo. The convict has been in Ghana for five years and resides at Kyeikrom near Asankragwa in the Amenfi West Municipal. Chief Inspector Anaman said, in January 2019, Duameyo went to Atakpame and lured the victim to Ghana under the pretext of securing her a lucrative job in Ghana without the knowledge of the victim's parents. She said the convict took the victim to Kyeikrom to live with him but failed to get her the job as promised. The prosecution said Duameyo took advantage of the situation and had sex with the victim on three occasions in his room. Inspector Anaman said the victim became pregnant and when she informed the convict, he gave her drugs to abort the pregnancy but she refused to take them. She said the victim then pleaded with the convict to send her back to her parents in Togo and he promised to do so when he gets some funds. The Prosecution said on April 1, 2019, victim managed to run away from the village and reported the case to the Sefwi-Bekwei police which led to the arrest of Duameyo. She said the victim's medical report form revealed that she was six weeks pregnant. Information gathered by the Ghana News Agency (GNA) revealed that even though the police officer who investigated the case, Detective Sergeant Vida Anane Adjei of the Domestic Violence Victim Support Unit (DOVVSU) of Asankragwa contacted the victim's parents in Togo to come for her they failed to show up. Detective Sgt Adjei had to send the victim to her parents in Togo at her own expense. 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 Salvation Army Basic School at Asiakwa in the Eastern Region has been closed following an assault on a teacher of the school, George Somuah Bosompem, which led to his death on May 3, 2019. The school, which is one of the four public schools in the community, has remained shut since the incident. It is not clear when classes will resume, as the pupils are said to be traumatized, while the teachers fear for their lives. Meanwhile, the Public Relations Officer of the East Akim Directorate of Education, Mr. Maxwell Owusu, told the Daily Graphic that the situation was expected to normalize in order for teaching and learning to begin on Monday, May 13, 2019. JHS teacher The late Bosompem, a junior high school (JHS) teacher, died at the St Josephs Hospital in Koforidua in the Eastern Region where he had been rushed after being allegedly mercilessly assaulted by six young men. Four of the young men are currently in police custody, while two are on the run. Demonstration The East Akim Municipal Conference of Heads of Basic Schools (CoHBS) has, in a letter to the Kibi Divisional Police Command, indicated its intention to demonstrate in the municipality next week in protest against the assault. Mr. Owusu said the East Akim Municipal Director of Education, Ms. Owusua Addo, visited the school yesterday, during which she met with some teachers and opinion leaders in the community. Ms. Addo, he said, had given an assurance that the matter would be pursued to secure justice for the bereaved family to serve as a deterrent. She also visited the deceaseds family to commensurate with them. Mr. Owusu said some of the teachers, who obviously feared for their lives, had proposed a mass transfer from the community and indicated that the directorate would discuss the issue. Security The Eastern Regional Minister, Mr. Eric Kwakye Darfuor, who also visited the bereaved family to express his sympathy, assured the community of their security. He urged members of the community to volunteer information on the whereabouts of the two other suspects now at large to ensure that they all faced the full rigours of the law. He urged the police to beef up security in the area through regular patrols. 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 Ghana Union of Professional Students [GUPS] has lauded President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo for his commitment to ensure that Ghanaian youth are competitive globally. Addressing the Global Peace Inter Generational Dialogue launch in Accra, the President noted that his government will work tirelessly to ensure that the Ghanaian youth is globally competitive in all dimensions. All is set for the construction of 21 state-of-the-art Technical and Vocational Education Training (TVET) Centers this year in the various regions of the country. The Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) centers are also being built around the country to provide support for the introduction of STEM into basic education, after the completion of a successful pilot phase, he said. Adding that, They have to survive. Technology is what helps us to make the world truly a global village, and enables once poor people to become prosperous, and scale up the value of their economic activities. The President of GUPS, Aboagye-Sarpong however noted that the Presidents comment is an encouragement to the Ghanaian youth. Source: King Edward Ambrose Washman Addo/Peacefmonline.com/ Twitter: @Washman5/ Instagram: Ambrose_wash 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 total of five million coconut trees are expected to be replanted in the Western Region of Ghana. The replanting campaign, according to the Western Regional Minister, Kwabena Okyere Darko Mensah, and Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State of Nigeria, Uboh Emmanuel, would be launched by the end of May 2019. The Region is joining forces with Akwa Ibom State of Nigeria in undertaking the project. Akwa Ibom State in Nigeria has planted over one hundred and ten hectares of coconut and is in the process of building the largest coconut processing factory on the entire continent. The announcement was made during separate speeches of the two dignitaries at the City Wide Thanksgiving Service instituted by Bishop Ogyiri Asares Zion Praise Chapel. Coconut plays a major role in economic growth, household income and nutrition. It is insightful to know that the Western Regional Agricultural Office states that every 45 minutes a truckload of coconut leaves the major coconut zone of Jomoro, Ellembelle and Nzema East. 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 Ghana Federation of Labour (GFL) has cautioned the National Identification Authority NIA) and the Electoral Commission of Ghana (EC) against hasty decisions that will create suspicion and mistrust. Whereas the NIA is currently embarking on a mass registration of Ghanaians in selected areas of the Greater Accra Region for the Ghana Card, the EC would in some few days start a limited voter registration exercise at its offices towards the upcoming district level elections. Mr Abraham Koomson, Secretary General of the GFL in an interview with the Ghana News Agency, said issues surrounding the Ghana card registration and the upcoming limited voter registration must be properly handled as their Bad judgement could have unfavourable consequences on the credibility of the two exercises. Mr Koomson said it was worrying hearing news on malpractices such as the alleged registration of foreigners as Ghanaians by some NIA officials after receiving paltry sums and illegally setting up registration offices in the night at unauthorized places. He added that NIA must initiate punitive sanctions against its officials named in such activities to deter others from doing so. He further urged the NIA to relook at the deadline for the registration stating the registration exercise is for national identification. He advised that since majority of Ghanaians might not be able to meet the primary requirements for registration, the NIA must organize a mop-up exercise after the mass registration to ensure that no citizens would be left out of the project. He appealed to the NIA to also consider increasing the registration centres as well as extend the registration period as people had complained about delays in the process due to poor connectivity. On the voters registration, he pleaded with the EC to make the registration easily accessible to eligible voters by opening the centres in the electoral area as it has been done over the years. Mr Koomson said it was in the interest of the EC and the NIA not to create suspicions of conspiracy to manipulate the system for a possible election rigging in 2020. He added that If civil society becomes suspicious of the conspiracy of the institutions to manipulate the system and rig the elections, certainly there will be resistance and revolt. 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 Talensi Rock Union a registered development NGO of the people from the Talensi District has outlined facts, root causes and suggested recommendations of the mining disaster at Gbane in the district. On 23rd January 2019, a mining disaster at Gbane in the district broke the hearts with the loss of 17 small scale miners, unprecedented in the annals of mining in Talenteng since reserves of gold in the area were found. "We are putting forward this press release to outline the facts and the root causes and to suggest recommendations as an interest group to halt future disasters of this magnitude for all stakeholders action," the statement read. Below is the full statement: Dear Sir/Madam, RECENT LOSS OF LIVES AT GBANE MINING SITE IN TALENSI DISTRICT IN THE UPPER EAST REGION Introduction: The Talensi Rock Union a registered development NGO of the people from the Talensi District whose interest and objectives among others in the Traditional Area are to: promoting formal Education of the Youth through scholarship awards, support medical care for the Aged in the Talensi Area, Promote Environmental Sustainability and Guide the youth to acquire employable skills for the job market has been following the recent happenings and developments in the mining disaster at Gbane in the Talensi District. New Development The resignation of Hon. Rockson Bukari as Minister in the Presidency following the leaked tape making the rounds in social media is the latest development about the activities of Shaanxi Mining (GH) Mineral Processing Company and other small scale miners and the disaster at Gbane in the Talensi District early this year is a matter of concern. As you are aware on 23rd January 2019, a mining disaster at Gbane in the district broke our hearts with the loss of 17 small scale miners, unprecedented in the annals of mining in Talenteng since reserves of gold in the area were found. We are putting forward this press release to outline the facts and the root causes and to suggest recommendations as an interest group to halt future disasters of this magnitude for all stakeholders action. As noted above shortly, the 2019 disaster of January, is calling us into action. We are aware of previous several small scale miners who have lost their lives due to improper mining practices and this was a blow to families and the people of Talenteng. This years accident is the heaviest. Fact 1: Key Players in Small Scale Mining at Gbane Gold Reserve Site The key players at the Gbane Gold Reserve site are currently eight (8) and listed below:- 1. Pobuataba/Yenyeya Mining Enterprise/Shaanxi Mining (GH) Mineral Processing Company Limited 2. Bantama Mining Group 3. Gbandayire Small Scale Mining Group 4. Obuasi Mining Group 5. Sugatabaa Mining Group 6. Timaretaaba Mining Group Limited 7. Unique Mining Group 8. Nanlamtaaba Enterprise Fact 2: Conflict over Gold Resources due to overlapping/trespassing of concessions. Pubuataba/Yenyeya(P&Y) and Kwesi Bantama were the original owned one concession prior to Pubuataaba/Yenyeya obtaining a small scale mining license from the Minerals Commission in 2008 to the exclusion of Kwesi Bantama. It is worthy to note that each party in the concession owned its pit until by consensus they decided to consolidate them. Later, prior to 2012, Pubuataaba/Yenyeya brought in a Chinese firm (Shaanxi) to provide technical services in mining and processing to them. This incurred the displeasure of Kwesi Bantama who depended virtually on manual processes of obtaining the ore with its associated low productivity. This was the origin of the conflict and this conflict has persisted from 2008 to date between P&Y on one the hand and Kwesi Bantama on the other with the latter accusing P&Y of encroaching and plundering his concession. The conflict even became more intense when Shaanxi persistently used its aggressive superior technology to trespass into almost all other groups mining areas underground. Pubuataaba/Yenyeya/Shanxi has plundered into almost nearby concessions of other groups such as Unique Mining Group, Kwesi Bantama, Obuasi Mining Group, and Timaretaba underground. This resulted in persistent tension at the mine site since 2008. The action taken by the aggrieved parties is that they have also sunk pits to intersect the drives created by P&Y/Shaanxi. The cause of the disaster of 23rd January 2019 was primarily suffocation of the 17 miners in the Kwesi Bantama pit who were caught by the noxious fumes from P&Y/Shaanxi blasting underground as a result of gas leakages. Fact 3: Occupational Health & Safety Issues An estimated number of 650 employees work for the eight (8) small scale mining entities and of this number: Less than 20% have mining designated hard hats with search light pots; Less than 20 % have Steel-cap boots to protect their foot; Less than 10% have ear plugs; Less than 30% have Reflective vest None have equipment for poisonous gas detection such as carbon monoxide or nitrogen oxide; Only 12% of the players have a cage for transporting staff in and out of the shaft; the rest use either rope ladder or make shift stairways made from timber Less than 50% have goggles for the protection of their eyes; Tailings are disposed-off in a less engineered Tailings Storage Facility and thus not optimizing protection for human safety and not according to international best practices Oil and grease in liquid effluent was in excess of 20mg/l and total suspended solid also in excess of 50mg/l All of the above shows that, the concern for health and safety of the staff/employee of entities at the Gbane Concessions only meets less than 25% of the international best practice on health and safety and this is very deplorable. This calls for an immediate site audit to review their modus operandi and enforce the standard operating procedures. Fact 4: Environmental Sustainability and livelihood issues The eco-system within an area in excess of 8 kilometer square has been damaged and which could take several years to reclaim. Both fauna and flora are stripped off due to indiscriminate excavations turning the current land to almost bad land of desert status. Acacia plants whose fruits and leaves used to be delicacies to animals are scarce to locate as a result. Notable species of birds such as the wild guinea fowls and quails have no habitat any more in the environment. In short the nature of the degradation of the land is spelt out as follows:- The land degradation is worsen by the indiscriminate land grabbing which started in 2004 and continues to date. Hearsay on gold found in specific locations, known in local terms as pit proofing leads to mad rush to grabbing and indiscriminate excavations. Desertification is a reality if no action is taken now to organize and streamline the activities of miners in the Gbane area. Our team of investigators focusing on P&Y/Shaanxi operations were denied access to see their erosion and sediment control structures. However, observation around their area of operations did not depict any international best practice engineered erosion control structure either. This request was based on the fact that P&Y/Shaanxi deployed cyanidation for Gold Extraction and an expected tailing storage facility. Fact 5: Miners wellbeing conditions at P&Y/Shaanxi: The teaming youth with very little employable skills have trouped to Gbane from Bawku, Sandema, Navrongo, Bongo, and Bolgatanga, to seek for jobs and to make money from the Gbane Mining Area aside the local resident youth themselves. Their working conditions were found to be deplorable. Average take home pay is GHS200.00per/month. This gives a daily living wage of GHS6.600/day. This is only 62.6% of the National Minimum wage of GHS10.65 Workers are not cared for when sick and are denied pay for sick leave. No compensation plan for families of workers who suffer permanent injuries and incapacitation Personal Protective Equipment to workers is very poor or invariably non-existent as indicated earlier 88% of the employees across mining players use rope ladder to descend into their workstations underground No First Aid points for injuries and accidents or ambulance and most victims of accidents are transported in ram-shackled taxis that ply the area from Bolgatanga. The Talensi Rock Union six (6) Asks or Relieves are as follows 1. Giving the above outline of facts gathered from what is happening at Gbane Gold Reserve Site in Tongo, we recommend a multi-sectoral team made up of the following government agencies and their recommendations should be directed at streamlining the activities of key players at the site. The identified agencies are:- a. The Minerals Commission and its Inspectorate Division b. Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources c. Mine Workers Union of the Trade Union Congress d. Ministry of Health and Ghana Health Service e. Water Resources Commission f. Environmental Protection Agency g. Ministry Environment, Science, Technology & Innovation h. The District Assembly. i. GRA j. Ministry of Employment and Labor Relations 1. A formal communication should go out to all players at the Gbane Mine Area to regularize their activities with the various governmental stakeholders in copy. The Minerals Commission should lead in issuing the directive. 2. Environmental Protection Agency should review the impacts of prospecting or mining entities with a focus on a. Water quality ( surface and underground) b. Disposal of tailings c. Disposal of liquid and solid waste d. Sewerage sludge disposal e. Mine reclamation plans f. Erosion and sediment control plans 3. Water Resources Commission should produce verifiable data on water quality for both surface and sub-terrain that depicts the current state the Gbane Mining Area as compared to international best practice for sustainable prospecting or mining activities. 4. Ghana Health Service may consider up-grading a nearby Health facility to the Gold Mining Area to offer speedy first aid and stabilization for accident victims from mining and other mishaps. 5. We recommend a well-executed multi-sectoral action plan on the above points, in our view would streamline operations of entities at the Gbane Mining Area to curtail future deaths, improve or enhance occupational health and safety for the teaming youth and promote environmentally sustained mining as a pre-occupation. We count on your earliest newscast/publication of this release as agreed with your esteem organization. Yours faithfully, Godwin Sebil Bade-Daamir (Chairman: Talensi Rock Union-Accra Branch) CONTACT PERSONS FOR FURTHER DETAILS 1. Godwin Sebil Bade-Daamir (Chairman)- 0242179277/0209607112 2. Dickson Kpelemetime (Secretary) - 0243072781 Source: Peacefmonline.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Suspect Helen Huang has yet to report to the Criminal Investigative Department (CID) of the Northern Regional Police Command of the Ghana Police Service after her police enquiry bail on Tuesday. She was granted the bail after her arrest following suspected illegal logging of rosewood. The Northern Regional Crime Officer, Superintendent Otuo Acheampong, revealed that the suspect is yet to report as at 9:47am Thursday May 9. She says shes still getting her papers, he said. She just said shes sure she will come today. She wouldnt tell me when to expect her even when I tried to ask what time we should expect her, he revealed. Helen Huang was arrested on Tuesday at the Vitting Barrier in Tamale while she was transporting two 20-footer trucks loaded with four containers of rosewood to Tema. She was granted bail after she had documented her statement to the police. Her bail condition was to report to the CID office each day to assist the police in investigations. But after almost 48 hours, Helen Huang has yet to report as required of her. She has told the police she will travel to the national capital, Accra, to retrieve documents that permit her access forest reserves for logging activities. Source: 3news.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 Quiz Master for the National Science and Maths quiz, Dr Elsie Effah Kaufmann, has called for the need to reassess the objectives of university education in the country. She said for a long time, the focus of university education had been on getting a degree, rather than learning the required skills to solve specific problems in the country and it was, therefore, time for a shift in focus. Speaking on the African Excellence Series on Springboard, Your Virtual University, a radio programme on Joy Fm, Dr Kaufmann said: For so long we have valued the degrees, so somebody goes to school and the aim is not to learn anything new, but to get the end results which is the certificate. That certificate in their minds entitles them to certain privileges, whether they are using the knowledge they have acquired or not is not a concern to them, she noted. Power in knowledge Dr Kaufmann, who is also a Senior Lecturer of the Biomedical Engineering Department of the University of Ghana, pointed out that there was a lot of power in knowledge. If we had knowledge in science, engineering and mathematics, we should be able to solve all our problems because that is what the training helps us to do, to be able to appreciate the problems around us, understand them and come up with solutions and to even go further in making our environments and society better and more comfortable, she explained. Unfortunately, what has been happening over the years is that people perceive these subjects to be very abstract, so they go to school and study them alright but just for the certificate. They just go and memorise some facts; they have some knowledge of what these subjects are about, but they dont continue to the actual problem-solving part of it, she added. She said the universities continued to give certificates to graduating students without finding out if the students had indeed learnt and acquired any skills to help improve society. We are not applying or translating the massive amount of knowledge we have into application. You get knowledge in a particular discipline in order to equip you to deal with your reality. If your realities are problems with food, health care and you are not addressing your knowledge to solving those problems, how useful is it? she asked. How do we change it? When asked about how the country could change this mindset, she said: We are all part of the problem because we havent clearly defined what our objectives are as a people. When you come to the university, what sort of skills are you supposed to acquire? What should you be able to do? These are questions we need to start asking ourselves, she stated. If I know when I go to school to study a particular course, these are the things Im supposed to do with the knowledge I have acquired, things will improve, she added. About science and maths quiz Commenting on the annual science and maths quiz, she said the competition was improving each year as the schools were now taking it more serious. She said the objectives of the quiz were to get people excited about science and maths, to get the schools to compete in a healthy manner and to improve the study of science and maths in the country. Whenever the students come together and show what they have been learning, they encourage others to continue learning, she said. There are a lot of schools that are spending a lot of time and resources to prepare for the quiz and the stakes are getting higher, she added, She said the level of difficulty was also getting difficult with each year, adding that I look at the questions we used to ask 10 years ago and if we bring those questions back now it will be a joke. What does excellence mean? When asked what her definition of excellence was, Dr Kaufmann said excellence was about finding out what was expected and committing to do what was expected and going beyond the expected to give something better. Unfortunately, she said the country could not boast of enough of it. We have too many people who are satisfied with mediocrity, she said. To talk about excellence means there is a standard or there is some expectation beyond which a person must go but when there are no expectations, when people pick activities to do, dont bother to find out what expectations there are, they are just happy in there without knowing what is expected of them and do things anyhow to satisfy their own objective then we have lost track of what excellence is, she explained. Source: graphic.com.gh 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 Minister for Railways Development, Hon. Joe Ghartey has disclosed that President Akufo-Addos dream to revamp the entire 4000km network of railway project in the country cannot be completed even within 8 years if the President wins the 2020 general election. Even though it is impossible to accomplish the dream within 8 years, the Minister for Railway Development has assured Ghanaians at the Ministry of Information Meet The Press series that President Akufo-Addos promise to the railway sector will be fulfilled. The total network of the railway project in the country is 4000km; we cannot finish the entire railway project in 8 years but what the President has vowed to do is that he will construct Accra to Kumasi railway lines; Sekondi-Takoradi to Kumasi and he will do another lines to Paga, that is what the President said he will do, he assured. He recounted that the railway network may not reach Paga within the 4 years but has however assured that his Ministry has started developing the lines and so within 8 years of President Akufo-Addos tenure, the promises will be fulfilled. So within the 4 years, I want to assure Ghanaians that as the President said, we have started developing it and we cannot finish all within the 4 years. We will not finish, get to Paga within the 4 years but we have started the development and within the 8 years, I can assure you that as for the promise we will do more, he added. He insisted that the railway sector, not just the Ministry is committed to making the dream of President Akufo-Addo pledging to revamp the railway business in the country become a reality; thus we are not relenting on our effort to work hard to ensure that dream of the President is achieved. The President said that one of the legacies that he wants to leave is a modern railway network. The vision that the President had of leaving a modern railway network is a good vision and it is a laudable vision and I am happy to report to the good people of Ghana that slowly but surely, step by step that vision is going to realised, he reiterated. Source: Daniel Adu Darko/Peacefmonline.com/[email protected] Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video The Home Land Study Group Foundation says despite the arrest of their leader and other key members of the group, they will go ahead to declare their independence. The PRO of the group, George Nyakpo was emphatic that We are not worried by their intimidations. They [Police] are not serious. To him, they are not part of Ghana and want an immediate separation from the republic before they take a drastic decision. Ghanaians should mind their business and we will think about ours. We are not part of Ghana. Ghanaians should not annoy us with their useless talks. We dont need Ghanaians, he said in an interview with NEAT FMs morning show 'Ghana Montie'. Listen to interview... Source: King Edward Ambrose Washman Addo/Peacefmonline.com/ Twitter: @Washman5/ Instagram: Washman007 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 General Secretary of the main opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketia says the Director-General of the Criminal Investigations Department, COP Maame Yaa Tiwaa Addo-Danquah should have been arrested instead of NDC National Chairman, Samuel Ofosu-Ampofo. He explained that the CID Boss should have been arrested for deceiving Ghanaians especially the parents of the Takoradi kidnapped girls that she knew the whereabout of the girls and their abductors. He insisted that the Police has no charge against Chairman Ofosu-Ampofo which is why they keep changing the charges against him in court. The first charge was thrown out because they realized it will not help their course. The third charge was assault on a Public Officer and they took that to court and realizing that it wont help them, they have changed it to kidnapping and so it's nothing new, he stated. He wondered why no action has been taken against the CID Boss when she held a press conference announcing that she knows the whereabout of the kidnapped girls and their kidnappers but no girl has been found till date. . . was it not this Tiwaa Addo-Danquah who held a press conference that she knows the whereabout of the kidnapped girls? . . . Has she told the family of the kidnapped girls that very soon they will see their girls? From that day till date, the girls have not been brought to their parents because you have not seen any of the girls. You and Ofosu-Ampofo, who should be arrested? he quizzed. The NDC Chief Scribe on Okay FMs 'Ade Akye Abia' Morning show fumed over the fact that Chairman Ofosu-Ampofo has been invited again over an allegation made by an anonymous person claiming that Samuel Ofosu-Ampofo is a part of a scheme. You came out to say that you know where the girls are; you are in touch with the kidnappers and that the family should be patience in order not to harm the girls, and now you are saying that you have arrested someone who has mentioned Ofosu-Ampofos name . . . Do you know that Maame Tiwaa would have been in police custody if Ghana is a serious country? Source: Daniel Adu Darko/Peacefmonline.com/[email protected] Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video 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 President of the 73rd Session of the United Nations ( UN ) General Assembly, Her Excellency Mrs Maria Fernanda Espinoza Garces, has described the country as a "key player and actor of the UN Systems" and a "leading partner of multilateralism". Her Excellency Mrs Maria Espinoza Garces is on a visit to Ghana to strengthen ties between the UN and the country, made these comments during a courtesy call today on the Speaker of Parliament, Rt Hon Prof Michael Aaron Oquaye. Multilateralism is the principle of participation by more parties especially by the governments of different countries. In view of Ghana's role in the UN, Her Excellency Garces said it is not surprising that President Nana Addo Dankwa Akuffo-Addo has been appointed by the UN as one of the eminent advocates of the UN Sustainable Development Goals and one of the Gender champions of the AU. She said, the "Ghana Beyond Aid vision of the President, if achieved, will be the second and true Independence of the country because a strong and productive economy is the secret for real Independence." Welcoming Her Excellency Garces, the Speaker Prof. Aaron Michael Oquaye said the UN General Assembly despite its challenges remains "the Assembly of the people of the world." He urged the UN to continue to take more steps to ensure women equality and address infant mortality, violence and poverty in various parts of the world. Prof. Aaron Michael Oquaye also urged the UN to "address the situation where Africa is placed at a disadvantage by the arrangements of the World Trade Organisation ( WTO) through free trade and open market" that place African countries under keen competition with the advanced countries. "....the UN General Assembly must set its own agenda to make it strong and relevant in order not to become a mere talking shop," the Speaker added. Source: Emmanuel Akorli/ Peace Fm/ Parliamentary Correspondent 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 Nigerian actor and entrepreneur Jim Iyke, who just welcomed a new baby, has written on how emotional he got when he was about parting with the baby and his mother at the airport. The actor who apparently was on his way to Paris, as deduced from his post, mentioned that though it was hard to let go, he had to get back to business and will be back in few months. He then chipped in that he would surely cry for some moments, while enmeshed in the thought of the love he has for his family. A man is not supposed to cry. I believe it principally. Kids know with a certain primordial instinct beyond logic when theres a parting. My guy started bawling for no apparent reason. I gave him a warm bottle at the airport, kissed him and his mama and walked away abruptly. Im gon hold myself together till Im in the comfort of my seat then Ill cry quietly for 20 mins. I hv my oversized shades to obscure suspicions, no worries..Then Ill order a stiff gin and tonic and mentally calm down as Ive trained myself to do. See u in a couple of months my guy. Apparently, Papa is not as strong as he deemed this particular principle. Love is stronger. Back to work. Back to my regiment to get rid of the daddy weight Wish me safe flight guys. God bless. Jim Iyke wrote 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 Afro-pop musician, Emmanuel Owusu Bonsu popularly called Wanluv Kubolor has revealed that one of his numerous babies Mama, Evelyn, who is a Ghanaian sells banana on a table top for a living. According to him, Evelyn, who has been selling banana for the past years is comfortable with her trade as she gets enough money to feed on. Adding that, despite the issue, he hasn't neglected his fatherly roles. He further explained that though he had wanted to change her banana business to something more befitting, she rejected. The Konkonsa hitmaker indicated that banana is his favourite fruit and that he can only support her baby mummy to remain in her banana business. Kubolor noted that he has seven children with five different women and a step child making the children eight. He mentioned funny names of his children as: TV, Radio, Ama Mampe, Ebony, Obonsamposuro adding that the future can only tell if he will give birth again or not. One of my baby mummies sells banana, anytime I ask her to change her trade, she refuses. The nationals of my childrens mothers include African American, Japanese, Ghanaian, Danish and British. I make sure the kids are taken care of, he said in an interview with ATUU. He explained that though the kind of music he does is not lucrative, he acquires money from music shows, talks, videos and royalties from abroad which he uses to cater for his children. Kubolor claimed hes currently married and that he will not marry again but has friends that he sometimes engages in sex with describing their activity as sexy-exercise. He added that they do that to release tension saying some of the women sleep over after their sexual bouts, others also go to their homes after the sex. I have some friends that I engage in sex with, we call it sexy-exercise, we do that to release stress, he disclosed. VIDEO- Source: UTV Ghana Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Houston Police(MISSOURI CITY, Texas) -- Police in Texas say they have located the car used by the stepfather of missing 4-year-old Maleah Davis on the day he claims the little girl was kidnapped by three men who assaulted him and knocked him unconscious. The car, a silver 2011 Nissan Altima, was located Thursday morning in Missouri City, Texas, close from where Maleah's stepfather, Darion Vence, 26, says he regained consciousness and discovered she had vanished. He told police he came to on the side of a road, more than 21 hours after he says the perpetrators took Meleah and the car, according to the Houston Police Department. UPDATE on investigation of missing child Maleah Davis: PIO is en route to a business at 5425 State Highway 6 in Missouri City where the silver Nissan Altima involved in Maleah's alleged kidnapping was recovered a short time ago. Houston Police (@houstonpolice) May 9, 2019 Vence told police his 2-year-old son, who had also been in the car, was sitting next to him and was unharmed. Maleah has been missing since Friday night and police have not identified any suspects in her disappearance. This is a breaking news story. Please check back for updates. Copyright 2019, ABC Radio. All rights reserved. Sample Q&A: Subcommittee Chair Horn: NASA has promised Congress an amended budget to be delivered April 15, and then May 1. It still has not been delivered yet. What is the cause of this delay? Mr. Gerstenmaier: This acceleration is a serious challenge with many components. We want to present Congress a complete and completely integrated plan and budget. We are taking our time to present as much detail as we can. It may be delayed for a week or two. Mr. Sirangelo: We want to ensure we get this right. Subcommittee Chair Horn: Who has final sign-off? Mr. Sirangelo: The NASA Administrator and OMB. Subcommittee Chair Horn: Will NASA be asking Congress for new authority for new types of contracting mechanisms? Mr. Gerstenmaier: We may be seeking a variety of authorities depending on what part of the mission architecture. Subcommittee Chair Horn: What is the status of NASA's space suits? Is NASA developing brand new suits? Mr. Gerstenmaier: We will be developing new suits based on our existing suits. Subcommittee Ranking Member Babin: Do all you on the panel agree that a real space program should provide commercial opportunities where appropriate, but also develop strategic capabilities that only the government can develop and use? All panelists: Agree. Subcommittee Ranking Member Babin: Should international partners be on the critical path? Dr. Lunine: For Mars, yes. Full Committee Chair Bernice-Johnson: What is the status of SLS and Orion? Mr. Gerstenmaier: The program is looking good. Mr. Sirangelo: This program will also result in new technologies as well as enable new kinds of science. Mr. Faulconer: This acceleration will produce usable technologies and science. Full Committee Ranking Member Lucas: What is the biggest challenge to this accelerated program? Mr. Faulconer: Institutional resistance. Full Committee Ranking Member Lucas: What has NASA learned from previous attempts to return Americans to the moon and going on to Mars that failed? Mr. Gerstenmaier: Compared to those previous efforts, we already have hardware being built and tested right now. We are also building an architecture where there are no technological dead-ends. Mr. Sirangelo: We also have a much more robust commercial space industry able to provide capabilities. Rep. Brooks: What can you tell this committee about recent tests and concerns about the parachutes on Starliner and Dragon? Dr. Sanders: The tests have provided insight which may result in some redesign. Mr. Gerstenmaier: There was a failure with the Dragon. We are investigating what went wrong. Rep. Brooks: How much more money will NASA need to accelerate the lunar program? Where will the money come from? Mr. Gerstenmaier: I cannot at this time get into details while OMB is reviewing our proposal. Rep. Beyer: I assume we will keep working with our international partners? Will we bring the Chinese along for lunar and Mars missions? Mr. Sirangelo: We will very likely keep working with our ISS partners. As for China, we at NASA are prevented by law from talking with the Chinese. # # # KAMPALA The Operationalisation of the Uganda Airline lies in jeopardy after the Parliamentary Budget Committee declined to approved the Shs37b meant to kickoff ground-handling services because of the failure of the Minister of Works and Transport, Monicah Azuba to adhere to Parliaments directive to appoint a substantive Board Management for Uganda National Airlines Company. The Legislators on the Committee of Physical Infrastructure has appeared before the Budget Committee to discuss the ministerial policy statement for the Ministry of Works and Transport ahead of tabling of the debate on the appropriation bill on the 2019/2020 national budget. Mr. Robert Ssekitoleko, Chairperson Physical Infrastructure Committee told his counterparts on the Budget Committee that the Ministry requires Shs37Bn for operationalization of the ground handling ahead of operationalization of the national airline. However, the Budget Committee members requested for a report on the appointment of the board for the Uganda National Airlines Company, but the Ministry of Works admitted to not have put a substantive board, prompting the Committee to reject appropriation of funds arguing that the current Interim Board is not legally binding and cannot account for the funds. Mr. Amos Lugolobi, Chairperson Budget Committee said: Parliament ordered the Ministry of Works up to 30th April 2019 to appoint board for Uganda National Airline and we dont have any report that the board has been appointed and Parliament directed that if the Board isnt appointed, the company wont be allocated funds in 2019/2020 so our job is to put in place what Parliament directed He said that although the purchase of more aircraft will continue, the operationalization of the airline will only take place after the Board has been appointed; The other aircraft will be bought but money for other things will only be appropriated after installing the board. There is nothing bad about appointing the board, they should do it for the sake of the airline because we are all looking for an airline run on a strong foundation. The Minister has to appoint the Board, if the Minister fails, we shall have no choice but reallocate the money to other items. Although Mr. Ssekitoleko agreed that there is a need to put in place the board, he warned that failure to have the airline start its operations will cost taxpayers funds; The moment we delay to put in place this board, it is going to affect Ugandans because the aircrafts will take long to start operations because it is the board charged with overseeing all these activities. It should be noted that when the Ministry of Works requested for a supplementary budget of Shs280,046,776,933Bn required as down payment for the first phase of the two 2 Bombardier jets from Canada that would operationalise the highly anticipated revival of the national airline, Uganda Airlines.to fund the purchase of two Bombardier aircraft for the national airline, some of the conditions Parliament put for the approval of the funds was the requirement by the Ministry of Works to appoint a board to run the company. The directive followed observations from the Budget Committee that scrutinised the supplementary schedule highlighting major weaknesses at the policy-making level which noted that the Interim Board members of the Uganda National Airline Company are also full-time employees of Government and extremely busy in their substantive public offices; The Board members included; Bageya Waiswa who is the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Works and Transport, Keith Muhanikzi is the Permanent Secretary/ Secretary to Treasury in the Ministry of Finance, Laban Mbulamuko is a Commissioner in the Ministry of Finance, Bisereko Kyomuhendo is a Commissioner in the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs and Capt. Gad Gasaatura (farmer and retired Flight Captain). The report on the supplementary funding highlighted that it would be difficult to imagine that the company will have a good footing if it continues being managed by this Board adding that even the current management staff are also holding interim positions; putting the company in an even more precarious situation. Yet still, Parliament was also informed that Capt. Gad Gasaatura who is purported to be the Chairperson of the Board has never been registered with the Uganda Registration Services Bureau in accordance with the Law. As such, Parliament directed the shareholders who include Minister of Works as well as Minister of Finance to appoint a substantive and competent Board, in a period not less than 30th April 2019 and the Board members must be subjected to a proper test and names presented before Parliament. In the event this is not done Parliament was to reject appropriating funds to the activities and operationalization of the Company in 2019/2020 national budget. Related KAMPALA/KIGALI ARED, a Rwandan based service start-up known for its Smart Business in a Box solar powered kiosks, has Thursday May 9, 2019 announced that it has set up 10 such kiosks with 10 women micro franchisees; thereby marking its expansion into its first international market Uganda. The solar kiosks known as the Shiriki Hubs are run by women and differently abled individuals on a micro-franchisee model. These have been set up in Kampala as well as in the refugee camps of Arua district through which citizens belonging to lower income groups can charge their mobile devices, buy air-time and WiFi connectivity for accessing the internet, make digital payments, besides availing a host of other intranet services offline. This expansion into Uganda was funded by US-based impact investor Gray Matters Capital under its gender lens sector agnostic portfolio coLABS in July 2017. Solar powered gendered impact With its funding mandate met after piloting in Uganda for a little more than a year, and achieving impact with 48 kiosks is Rwanda of which 41 are run by women and 2 by people with disabilities; ARED is now aiming to have 100 micro franchisees serving around 3000 customers a month by 2020 with this market expansion. The start-up presently provides digital services and meets the connectivity needs of 55,000 customers in Rwanda and Uganda, using its solar powered kiosks. Market entry to market penetration Giving insights into his companys development strategy for Uganda, Henri Nyakarundi Founder and CEO, ARED Group said, We will work with partners whom we call as area developers who will franchise our model in the different areas of Uganda. He added: Our focus is on NGOs and private sector enterprises that wed like to be roped in. They will buy the hardware the kiosk; train micro franchisees and use our licensed software. ARED will of course support them along the way. Apart from leasing the kiosks via the franchise model, ARED is also planning to partner telecom service providers in Uganda to build distribution channels at the community level. Commenting on AREDs success, Jennifer Soltis, Portfolio Manager coLABS, Gray Matters Capital noted that the company has revolutionized the way digital services and connectivity is being distributed in low income areas, and we are happy to have played our part in its success so far. Setting sights on Western Africa While the rationale behind entering Uganda was the similarity of culture and proximity to Rwanda, ARED will be embarking on a far more challenging journey next year. We will be looking to target countries in Western Africa next year. While the cultural ethos may differ, what remains common pan-Africa is the unreliability of power supply. It is this adversity that wed like to convert into an opportunity, said Henri announcing that ARED has begun working on a pilot in Ivory Coast. About ARED Founded in 2013, ARED is a Platform as a Service company based in Rwanda with operations in Uganda. It has developed a Smart Business in a Box solar kiosk, app and software platform that empowers mostly women and people with disabilities using a micro franchise business model. It offers key services on the kiosk such as internet WIFI, intranet solutions for offline users, and phone charging services to be the first one stop shop solar kiosk in the African continent. With its app, additional services such as airtime, mobile money, prepaid electricity, and tax payment services are offered to create a one-stop shop for its customers. On its intranet network, ARED offers branding capabilities for companies, data collection, and user analytics. About GMC coLABS GMC coLABS is an early-stage investment portfolio seeking to invest in innovative and scalable forprofit enterprises that have the potential to dramatically improve the lives of women and girls around the world. Launched in 2017, this sector agnostic investment portfolio of impact investor Gray Matters Capital (GMC) has committed $5 million over the next 3 years to help early-stage entrepreneurs with seed capital and strategic advisory support to scale their enterprises. GMC coLABS has so far invested in a diverse portfolio of companies across sectors ranging from civic engagement, to health, to livelihoods spanning 4 continents. The investment ticket size is up to $250,000 per enterprise. Related For the past 27 years, the local AAUW (American Association of University Women) affiliate has presented a Woman of the Year award to a person whose generous donation of time, effort and passion has strengthened, supported or made a significant difference in our community and the lives of others. This year, we are delighted to invite the public to join us in honoring U.S. Rep. Debbie Dingell (D-12th District), for her years of public service, not only caring for the interests of Michigan communities in Congress, but also for being a long-time national advocate for women and children. The Woman of the Year celebration will be held on Tuesday, May 14, from 6 8 PM in the Ray Mix room at Wayne County Community College, 2100 Northline, in Taylor. On the same evening, AAUW scholarship recipients from Baker College, Henry Ford College, Lawrence Tech, and Wayne County Community College will be acknowledged for their distinguished academic records and involvement with women- related issues. Also being recognized are three local college women that our Affiliate is sponsoring to attend the National Conference for College Women Student Leaders (NCCWSL) at the University of Maryland this spring. Those in attendance at the reception will enjoy an assortment of beverages and heavy hors doeuvres provided by Promenade Artisan Foods of Trenton, as they peruse and bid on a variety of silent auction items. Proceeds will be designated for scholarships in 2020. Friends, teachers, relatives, colleagues and admirers of all those being honored, are welcome to attend this free event. This would also be an excellent opportunity for anyone to become acquainted with the AAUW efforts to promote fairness for women and girls in educational, social, and economic matters. All are welcome. We value and seek a diverse membership. Not only is full membership available to any male or female college graduate with an associate or equivalent, baccalaureate, or higher degree, but local branch membership is open to non-degreed individuals who support AAUWs mission and goals. As an added incentive, new members will realize a savings of $30 if they join AAUW while at the event! Reservations are kindly requested. Please contact Sheila Blair at aauwwd@gmail.com, or 734-674-2246. Source: AAUW-Wyandotte 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 Welcome Guest! You Are Here: Welcome Guest! You Are Here: Home Regional News East San Francisco, CA -- (ReleaseWire) -- 05/09/2019 --Hills Vineyard, Inc., a company that produces extra virgin olive oil in San Francisco, CA, announced it has begun a partnership with BizIQ, a digital marketing company in Phoenix, Arizona that specializes in providing its services to small businesses across North America. This new business partnership with BizIQ will provide Hills Vineyard, Inc. with a variety of new ways to reach out to brand new audiences and potential customers in its area. BizIQ uses some tried and tested search engine optimization (SEO) strategies in its web marketing efforts that can, for example, help people find reliable sources of information about olive oil in San Francisco, CA. BizIQ has also developed a brand new website for the company, as well as an in-depth content marketing campaign that features two blog posts each month and better overall communication with potential clients throughout the area. The new website BizIQ created for the olive oil company offers relevant, timely and informative content that focuses on issues like unfiltered olive oil and the best olive oils on the market. All content on the website is the result of work by skilled copywriting professionals. The site also offers multiple channels through which people can quickly contact the company to learn more about its products. "We're thrilled to be working with BizIQ to enhance our web marketing and our digital communications," said Austin E. Hills, owner of Hills Vineyard, Inc. "This is a big step forward for us, and we're excited for the opportunity to better connect with current and prospective customers online." About Hills Vineyard, Inc. Founded in 2000, Hills Vineyard, Inc. is an award-winning producer of olive oil in the San Francisco Bay area, and is family owned and operated. For more information about the company and its products, including the gold medal-winning Dos Colinas Extra Virgin Frantoio Olive Oil, visit http://www.dos-colinas.com/. To learn more about BizIQ and its expertise regarding local search engine optimization, or to view its extensive list of service options, please visit http://www.biziq.com/. Chicago, IL -- (ReleaseWire) -- 05/09/2019 --Each of the three cases arise under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, a federal law. Ultimately, the Court's ruling may affect LGBT employees' rights. The outcome will determine whether LGBT workers can file a federal claim for sexual orientation or gender identity discrimination in federal court. In 2017, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 7th Circuit heard a related case. In an 8-3 decision. the 7th Circuit ruled that Title VII protects LGBT employees. Chief Judge Diane Wood emphasized that sexual orientation discrimination cannot occur without unlawful discrimination on the basis of sex. However, the U.S. Supreme Court's ruling could reverse that decision. Chicago LGBT employees currently have protections against employment discrimination under the Illinois Human Rights Act. Currently, the Illinois Human Rights Act applies to employers with at least 15 employees. LGBT rights advocates sought recently to repeal that requirement so that the law would apply to all Illinois employers. The Illinois Legislature even passed a bill to do so. Yet Governor Bruce Rauner vetoed it. While many LGBT employees in Chicago have rights under state law, and under City laws, their protections under federal law will depend on the Supreme Court ruling. Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex. However, that federal law does not explicitly prohibit sexual orientation or gender identity discrimination. Courts like the 7th Circuit have ruled that sex discrimination includes sexual orientation discrimination. Similarly, the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) says that Title VII guarantees protections against LGBT discrimination at work. Yet other courts have disagreed. Indeed, an example appears in one of the cases that will come before the Supreme Court this fall. In one of those cases, the 11th Circuit ruled that Title VII does not prohibit discrimination against LGBT employees. The other two cases that will come before the Court found in favor of the LGBT employee who alleged discrimination. Those cases arose out of the 2nd Circuit in New York and the 6th Circuit in Cincinnati. According to Chicago employment discrimination lawyers Arthur R Ehrlich and Jonathan C Goldman, the Supreme Court's ruling will have profound effects. Goldman remarked, "the Court could determine that Title VII does not apply to sexual orientation or gender identity discrimination." Such a decision could mean that LGBT employees have no protections against discrimination under federal law. In such a situation, LGBT employees in Chicago would only have protections against employment discrimination under state law, Cook County law, and City law. By Zhao Lei The fifth Forum on National Defense Intellectual Property Rights was held in Beijing on Wednesday, and focused on the IPR transfer of defense technology. The forum, hosted by the National Defense Industry Press and the National Defense IPR Committee of the China Intellectual Property Society, had more than 400 attendees from about 200 People's Liberation Army units, government agencies, research organizations and enterprises, according to a statement from the organizing committee. Several renowned experts in the defense technology IPR field such as Ling Yongshun, an academician from the Chinese Academy of Engineering, and Professor Gu Jianyi, a senior researcher in national defense economics, gave speeches at the forum. The topics they discussed included innovation in defense technology and IPR management of defense technology. Awards were given to researchers and organizations that made contributions to the protection of defense technology IPR. China has been gearing up efforts to boost the transfer of defense technology to civilian sectors in recent years. More than 7,000 national defense patents were declassified in 2017 and 2018, according to statistics from the organizing committee. Senior Colonel Wang Hongyu, director of the National Defense IPR Bureau under the Central Military Commission's Equipment Development Department, told the forum his bureau will continue to improve utilization and transfer of defense technology IPR and will concentrate on policy reform and encouragement of innovation. The Supreme Court on Wednesday asked the Election Commission to examine the complaint of dismissed BSF trooper Tej Bahadur Yadav whose nomination papers to contest the Lok Sabha polls from Varanasi were rejected by the poll body. Yadav wanted to contest the election against Prime Minister Narendra Modi. A bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi asked the counsel of the poll body to look into the matter and communicate it to the court on Thursday. Advocate Prashant Bhushan, appearing for Yadav, brought an earlier order to the court's attention and informed that during the Model Code of Conduct there is no bar on filing election petitions. Yadav, dismissed from service in 2017 after he posted a video online complaining about the poor quality of food served at his BSF camp, had entered the poll fray as a candidate of the Samajwadi Party from the Varanasi seat. He alleged that he was deliberately kept out of the contest to ensure an easy win for Modi from Varanasi. Yadav, in his petition, contended that the Returning Officer "completely failed to appreciate that he had produced the dismissal letter along with his nomination paper". The dismissal letter indicated the reason for his dismissal from the BSF as alleged indiscipline and there was no evidence of indulging in corruption or any act of disloyalty to the state, the petitioner said. Yadav has sought the apex court's direction to set aside the Returning Officer's May 1 order pleading that he be allowed to contest the election from Varanasi. The candidature of Yadav was rejected by the Returning Officer on finding fault with his nomination papers. Yadav's nomination was rejected as he could not bring on record that his dismissal was not on corruption charges or due to any integrity issues. "It seems the decision was taken keeping in mind the sensitivity of the contest in Varanasi and to give walkover to the candidate (Modi) of the ruling party (BJP) by disqualifying the petitioner," he contended. Yadav claimed he was a strong candidate against the prime minister and his popularity was "gaining momentum", and added that is why he was supported by the Samajwadi Party-Bahujan Samaj Party combine in Uttar Pradesh. Stating that "the mala fide is apparent," Yadav alleged that the Returning Officer had shown haste in deciding on his candidature, adding that the poll official could have at least allowed the Election Commission to respond to his application. PM Narendra Modi Taking a dig at Mamata Banerjee for saying that she doesn't accepts Narendra Modi as the Prime Minister of India, Modi on Thursday said that Banerjee rather feels proud to accept Pakistan's PM and accused her of insulting the Constitution. "One can easily gauge the level of her anxiety hearing the language she has been using. Now she talks of stones and slaps for me... I am used to abusive language and have inculcated a power to digest all the slangs present in dictionaries around the world. But didi is now in a frenzied condition. Didi is even insulting the Constitution of the country. "You will be shocked to know she has been publicly saying that she is not ready to accept the Prime Minister of the nation, whereas she feels proud to accept Pakistan's Prime Minister," Modi said at an election meeting here at Kamladanga in Bankura district. Addressing a rally in West Midnapore district on Wednesday, Banerjee has said that she felt like giving "one tight slap of democracy" to Modi. Modi also accused Banerjee of destroying Bengal for "the sake of her addiction of power in the state". "Now, she is further bent on destroying the state out of fear of losing her power. She is not bothered about 'Ma Maati Maanush' but her own benefits, seat of power and also her relatives, nephew and extortionists," he said. Modi said he was told that the Trinamool government tried their best to stop the Bharatiya Janata Party to hold the rally. "But no one can stop the person who has the blessing of the people," he said. Modi reiterated her earlier accusation that the Trinamool Congress chief neither received nor returned his calls to assess the losses inflicted by cyclone Fani last week. Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi on Wednesday held a road show in support of boxer Vijender Singh whom the party has fielded from the South Delhi Lok Sabha constituency. Amid the triangular contest against Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) sitting MP Ramesh Bidhuri and Aam Aadmi Party's (AAP) Raghav Chadha, the Congress expected that Gandhi's road show will be a booster for the Congress candidate and swing people's support in favour of the party. However, the road show, which began around 7 p.m. from Dakshinpuri, could not gather as much of crowd as the party had anticipated. Covering a distance of around 1.5 km, this was Gandhi's second roadshow in the city on Wednesday after one for Delhi North East candidate and former Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit in east Delhi. Though the number of Congress supporters in the South Delhi roadshow was not more than 1,000, excluding party members, there was much enthusiasm among some voters who gathered near the Virat Cinema in Dakshinpuri area, the starting point. "I am a resident of of Devli. I came here to see Priyanka and meet Vijender. Priyanka's whole family almost lost their lives for the country and people are trying to erase the her party. It will not be repeated again from South Delhi. Vijender would secure a tremendous victory and Rahul Gandhi would be the Prime Minister," Rani, from Balmiki community of Devli, told IANS. Another supporter Kusum, who was part of a group of women at the starting point of the roadshow, said: "This elections is in the name of employment. I hope only Congress will fulfil our needs." Naved Ahmed, a resident of Dakshinpuri, said that "the whole area here was once established by the Congress". "Now, Vijender will get the support of everyone in all the 10 assembly constituencies in South Delhi. In his busy schedule, he has almost visited all the assembly constituencies and is very liberal than BJP's Ramesh Bidhuri." Zahoor Ahmed, who was part of the roadshow and was riding his scooty, said: "I voted for the BJP in 2014 elections. But, the party cheated everyone. There is no job. Unemployment is increasing. Demonetisation and GST (Goods and Services Tax) have ruined business. I will vote for Congress this time." The roadshow, which crossed through narrow lanes of the Indira Market and different blocks of Dakshinpuri area, however, been a centre of attraction for the residents who cheered and waved hands seeing Priyanka Gandhi and Vijender Singh sitting together on a car. Wearing a red sari, Gandhi responded to the people by waving her hand in return with a smile. Chinese peacekeepers to Lebanon parade at a medal-awarding ceremony at a camp in southern Lebanon, on April 6, 2018. [Photo/Xinhua] By HONG XIAO at the United Nations China's envoy to the United Nations said his country would continue contributing to building UN peacekeeping capacity and honor its commitment to world peace with concrete action. Addressing an open debate on Training and Capacity Building for UN Peacekeeping Missions on Tuesday at UN headquarters in New York, China's permanent representative to the body Ma Zhaoxu said that China, as a permanent member of the Security Council, was a major Troop Contributing Country (TCC) and financial contributor to Peacekeeping Operations (PKOs). At present, over 2,500 Chinese peacekeepers are implementing mandates in eight task areas, working in such fields as land-mine removal, medical services, engineering, transportation and security. China attaches great importance to training and capacity building of peacekeepers, he added. "The Chinese peacekeepers are well-trained, well-equipped and well-disciplined," Ma said. Ma said China is fully implementing the commitment made by President Xi Jinping to further support UN PKOs. Ma noted that a standby peacekeeping force of over 8,000 troops and two standby peacekeeping police contingents have been established and all have passed UN inspection. "They can be put into operation at any time," he said. In addition to its own efforts, Ma said China has also been actively helping TCCs, especially developing countries, in their capacity building. China will continue to work actively on providing the African Union (AU) with military assistance worth $100 million and an additional $80 million to help "Africa advance its Africa standby force and rapid reaction force and support Africa in its efforts to enhance its own peacekeeping capacity," he said. UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres told the Council that better training for peacekeepers being deployed to increasingly hostile environments was a "necessary and strategic" investment that can also save lives. He said "notable progress" had been made in training 'blue helmets' and others who serve in some of the most dangerous places on earth, but "much still needs to be done". Guterres said that beyond preparation, training improves performance. "And as we know, improved performance, reduces fatalities. As such, training is a necessary and strategic investment in peacekeeping and is a shared responsibility between Member States and the Secretariat,"he added. New York, NY -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/09/2019 -- The global Apple accessories market is expected to grow at 4.8% CAGR over the forecast period, 2016-2020. Demand is expected to remain strong in China, where rapid adoption of smartphones, combined with an increasing preference towards the 'Apple' brand is pushing sales. The market in China is expected to grow at 8.5% CAGR through the forecast period. Globally, the demand for Apple accessories is expected to be positively influenced by the growing BYOD trend. Weak distribution channels in emerging markets have remained a longstanding challenge for manufacturers. However, popularity of e-commerce and focus on creating alternative distribution channels have positively impacted Apple accessories sales in emerging markets. The steady growth in these markets is expected to offset weak demand in developed markets of the U.S. and Europe. Request For Report Sample @ https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/sample/rep-gb-3374 Apple accessories sales in Asia will be driven by rising popularity of e-commerce websites and apps. As is the case in Asia, steady e-commerce sales are driving Apple accessories sales in Brazil and Russia. These factors will contribute to the overall growth of the global market. Future Market Insights identifies that undefined standards in terms of components and technology have led to price and product differentiation. Moreover, widespread availability of counterfeit and pirated products offered at a fraction of the original price in various developing countries can significantly inhibit demand for Apple accessories. The Future Market Insights report reveals that iPhone screen guards will continue to be the most-sought after accessory among consumers. iPad cases and iPad screen guards are expected to remain the other lucrative product types. Collectively, these three product segments accounted for over 50% revenue share of the global market in 2016, and the status quo will remain unchanged throughout the forecast period. Among these product types, iPad cases segment will only witness an increase in its revenue share by 2020. Request For Report Table of Content (TOC): https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/askus/rep-gb-3374 North America will continue to be the most lucrative market, with the US leading total sales. The North America Apple accessories market was valued at US$ 1.93 Bn in 2016, with the US accounting for US$ 1.38 Bn in revenues. Future Market Insights projects the North America market revenues to increase at a CAGR of 4% CAGR through 2020. The report further reveals that the Apple accessories market in Europe is predicted to register a CAGR of 4.0% in the span of next four years. However, the Apple accessories market in South East Asia is expected to witness relatively sluggish growth by the end of 2020. 3M, Bose Corporation, Western Digital Corporation (SanDisk), Logitech, Otter Products, LLC., Decoded, Adobe, Bang & Olufsen, Incase and ACCO (Kensington Computer Products Group) are the key manufacturers operating in the Apple accessories market globally. Pune, Maharashtra -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/09/2019 -- Carnauba wax, also known as Brazil wax, is a type of wax derived from leaves of a species of palm, Copernicia prunifera. Owing to its glossy finish, carnauba wax finds application across various end-use industries which is directly translating into growth of its market. The carnauba wax are popularly used in automobile wax, food products, floor and furniture waxes, and in instrument polishes. In the recent years, cosmetic industry has been gaining high traction worldwide, especially in emerging economies due to high spending capabilities. This is expected to propel growth of carnauba wax market as the wax has excellent emollient and hypoallergenic properties, making it an ideal ingredient for cosmetic products. Asia Pacific is expected to Contribute Major Revenue Growth of Carnauba Wax Market Increasing rate of adoption in food & beverages industry coupled with rising demand from cosmetic & personal care products are fuelling growth of the carnauba wax market. Increasing working population on the coattails of rapid urbanization and industrial growth in the Asia Pacific is influencing the demand for ready-to-go food products which in turn surge the demand for carnauba wax which is extensively used as emulsifiers. Further, rise in pharmaceutical industry will possibly boost the carnauba wax market with increasing use as glazing and tablet-coating agent. Get Free Exclusive Sample Copy of This Report @ https://www.factmr.com/connectus/sample?flag=S&rep_id=741 Brazilian Manufacturers to Hold Sway Over the Carnauba Wax Market Carnauba wax businesses in northeastern Brazilian states produce around 16,000 tons of carnauba wax every year a significant percentage of this production is for exports. The carnauba wax market is consolidated by Brazilian wax industry players as Brazil is the largest producer and exporter of carnauba wax. According to the Ministry of Development, Industry and Foreign Trade (MDIC), the total value of carnauba wax exported by Brazil in 2016 was worth over US$ 99 million. In 2017, Brazil exported 15,652 tons of carnauba wax and the total value increased up to US$ 101.7 million. Carnauba oil possesses excellent dispersion characteristics and can produce a glossy finish when used as a polish. Owing to its wide range of applications in specific industrial sectors, the carnauba wax market is likely to witness steady growth in the foreseeable future. Based on the statistics published by the MDIC, the total export value of carnauba wax from Brazil may increase up to US$ 114 million by the end of 2018. United States, Germany, China, Japan, and the Netherlands were the top five countries to import carnauba wax from Brazil in 2017. Penetration in Food and Confectionary Industries to Drive Growth Carnauba wax possesses good emulsifying and stabilizing properties, which is triggering innovation in the food & beverage industry. Edible films and carnauba wax coatings are used in a large number of food applications to meet product-specific needs such as to improve its shelf life and enhance its outer appearance. Carnauba wax is commonly used in the preparation of confectionery products and fruit coatings, marking a high contribution of the food industry in the growth of the carnauba wax market. For an instance, 'Haribo' a German confectionery company uses carnauba wax to produce gelatin, which is the primary ingredient of their popular confectionery product Gummy Bear candies. Ask For Customized Report @ https://www.factmr.com/connectus/sample?flag=RC&rep_id=741 While the food industry accounts for the largest revenue share in the carnauba wax market, automotive applications of carnauba wax account a significant share of the industry. Attributing to its high melting point and glossy properties, carnauba wax is commonly used as an automotive care polish. Increasing demand for car waxes made with carnauba oil is likely to fuel the growth of the carnauba wax market. Apart from the food industry and automotive industry, carnauba wax finds numerous applications across other industrial sectors including pharmaceuticals industry and cosmetics industry. Opportunities Abound for Carnauba Wax Gains Traction in Cosmetics Industry Glossy characteristics of carnauba wax boost its demand for producing cosmetics and personal care products such as lip balms, lip gloss, skin moisturizers, and other eye makeup products. Leading Asian countries such as China, Japan, India, and Australia offer more than 3 billion potential consumers, indicating lucrative opportunities for manufacturers in the cosmetics industry. In 2015, the Europe market for cosmetic products accounted for over US$ 87 Bn and it is likely to grow at a rapid pace in the upcoming years. Leading manufacturers in the carnauba wax market are banking on numerous applications of carnauba wax in the cosmetics industry. Carnauba wax manufacturers are adopting strategies to capture business opportunities in the flourishing segments of the ethnic beauty markets. Kahl GmbH & Co. KG a German wax manufacturing company entered the cosmetic industry with its diverse product range with functional ingredients for various beauty products. The company recently launched 'Lipstick Base 6465', a blend of carnauba wax and oils, which is used to manufacture lipsticks with high gloss and high heat resistance. In addition, Kahl GmbH & Co. KG also collaborated with Ingretech a leading distributor of cosmetic ingredients as its distributor for the French market. By building a long-term partnership with Ingretech, the company aims to offer premium services and create a powerful presence in the French cosmetic market. Availability of Cheaper Alternatives Can Impede Demand Carnauba wax is often combined with some chemical solvents to make it feasible for use in various cosmetic as well as food products. Increasing awareness about the negative health effects of synthetic chemical added to carnauba wax is encouraging consumers to shift to its healthier alternatives. Also, carnauba wax is much more expensive as compared to its popular substitutes such as sunflower seeds wax, Candelilla wax and beeswax. In order to meet the dynamic consumer demand and providing natural carnauba wax, leading market players are introducing innovative products such as herbal, organic, vegan-friendly, and halal carnauba wax. Also, obtaining various certifications such as the halal certificate, kosher certificate, and BSI (British Standards Institution) certification is aiding manufacturers to maintain healthy growth in the carnauba wax market. You can Buy This Report from Here @ https://www.factmr.com/checkout/741/S 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 Market Dynamics Market Size Market Segments Demand & Supply Trends Current Issues and Challenges Companies and Competitor Landscape Value Chain Technology Regional Segments Analyzed Include North America (U.S., Canada) Latin America (Mexico. Brazil) Western Europe (Germany, Italy, France, U.K, Spain) Eastern Europe (Poland, Russia) Asia Pacific (China, India, ASEAN, Australia & New Zealand) Japan Middle East and Africa (GCC, S. Africa, N. Africa) 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. Highlights from the Report Elaborated scenario of the parent market Transformations in the market dynamics Detailed segmentation of the target market Historical, current and forecast market size based on value and volume Latest industry developments and trends Competition landscape Strategies adopted by the market players and product developments made Potential and niche segments, along with their regional analysis Unbiased analysis on performance of the market Up-to-date and must-have intelligence for the market players to enhance and sustain their competitiveness Read Comprehensive Overview of Report @ https://www.factmr.com/report/741/carnauba-wax-market About Fact.MR Fact.MR is a fast-growing market research firm that offers the most comprehensive suite of syndicated and customized market research reports. We believe transformative intelligence can educate and inspire businesses to make smarter decisions. We know the limitations of the one-size-fits-all approach; that's why we publish multi-industry global, regional, and country-specific research reports. Contact Us FactMR 11140 Rockville Pike Suite 400 Rockville, MD 20852 United States Email: sales@factmr.com Web: www.factmr.com/ Portland, OR -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/09/2019 -- "New utility functions such as the universal mounting accessory function and dual pull-out workout shelves almost double the utility of the emergency carts. Moreover, significant investments on such equipment is encouraged by medical practitioners and caregivers due to the growth in number of emergency cases and the surge in the need for emergency medical carts." A medical cart or trolley is a wheeled cabinet with drawers and trays that is used in various medical, surgical, and therapeutic modalities in hospital and clinical settings to keep drugs, tools, equipment, and medical devices for the stipulated treatment. The Asia-Pacific medical carts market is divided into four types -anesthesia carts, emergency carts, procedure carts, and other carts. The Asia-Pacific medical carts market was valued at $224 million in 2015 and anticipated to reach $555 million by 2022, growing at a CAGR of 13.7%, according to Allied Market Research. In 2015, in terms of volume, the emergency carts segment accounted for over two-fifths share followed by procedure carts. The emergency carts segment is expected to dominate the Asia-Pacific medical carts market throughout the forecast period, both in terms of value and volume. The emergency carts are critical in providing utmost and immediate patient care even in adverse situations. Download Sample Report @ https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/request-sample/1871 China dominated the Asia-Pacific medical carts market in 2015, accounting for more than one-third market share, and is projected to continue this trend in the future. China generated the maximum revenue in 2015 and is projected to be the fastest growing country throughout the analysis period, at a CAGR of 16.4%. This is attributed to its high geriatric population that requires medical procedures and the rise in demand for medical carts required for this purpose. Besides, improvement in health care expenditure further supplements the sale of medical carts in China. However, Japan utilized 180 thousand unit carts in 2015 and is anticipated to be a lucrative market opportunity as the Japanese health care expenditure is anticipated to surge by an average of 3% during 2014-18. Key Findings of the Asia-Pacific Medical Carts Market: - In 2015, China dominated the overall medical carts market revenue, and is projected to grow at a highest CAGR of 16.4% during the forecast period, in terms of value and volume. - Singapore is expected to grow at a remarkable CAGR of 14.2% in terms of value and 13.5% in terms of volume. - Indonesia is projected to grow at a CAGR of 13.4% in terms of value, during the analysis period. - Emergency carts segment accounts for about half of the Asia-Pacific medical carts market share in terms of value and three-seventh of share in terms of volume. - In terms of value, procedure carts is anticipated to grow at the fastest rate of 14.4% from 2016-2022. The key players in the medical carts market are focused on expanding their business operations in the fast-growing emerging countries with new product launches as a preferred strategy. The key players profiled in this report include Omnicell, Inc., Hanlim Medical Equipment Co., Ltd., Ruilang Medical Equipment Co., Ltd, Capsa Solutions LLC, Chang Gung Medical Technology Co., Ltd, ITD Medical Technology Products Co., Ltd., Lifemedic Health care Supplies Pte Ltd, Midmark Corporation, Nortek, Inc., Zhangjiagang Medi Medical Equipment Co., Ltd. Get 20% Free Customization In This Report @ https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/request-for-customization/1871 About us Allied Market Research, a market research and advisory company of Allied Analytics LLP, provides business insights and market research reports to large as well as small & medium enterprises. The company assists its clients to strategize business policies and achieve sustainable growth in their respective market domain. Allied Market Research provides one stop solution from the beginning of data collection to investment advice. The analysts at Allied Market Research dig out factors that help clients to understand the significance and impact of market dynamics. The company amplies client's insight on the factors, such as strategies, future estimations, growth or fall forecasting, opportunity analysis, and consumer surveys among others. As follows, the company offers consistent business intelligent support to aid the clients to turn into prominent business firm. Albany, NY -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/09/2019 -- Fuses for automotive are used to protect various components, electrical circuits, and switches from fluctuating current and power flows. They are generally rated for circuits with voltage lower than 32 volts direct current (DC). Fuse having non-automotive application are used for 42-volt electrical systems. Among all electrical devices in a vehicle, fuse units have the highest usage and demand. This can be ascribed to the rise in demand for vehicles with advanced technological features. Automotive manufacturers are increasing the production of such vehicles in order to meet the rising demand from consumers. Furthermore, rise in fuel prices and environmental concerns are accelerating new inventions in the automobile sector. Production of environmentally electric vehicles is on the rise. Fuses have major applications in electric vehicles and vehicles with more integrated electronic features. In order to increase the safety level of automobiles, manufacturers are focusing on use of advanced technology features associated with sensors, which are powered by fuses. Availability of two different fuses in one pack meets customer need for broad vehicle range and compact packaging. The global automotive fuse market can be segmented based on fuse type, electric vehicle, vehicle type, voltage output, application, motor output, battery capacity, ampere, sales channel, and region. For More Details, Request A Sample Report @https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=B&rep_id=42416 Based on fuse type, the global automotive fuse market can be classified into blades and three other types. The blade segment is likely to expand at a moderate pace owing to its particular application and design. In terms of electric vehicle type, the automotive fuse market can be categorized into battery electric vehicle and hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs). In electric vehicles, power electronic takes direct current (DC) electricity from the battery and converts it to alternating current (AC) electricity and sends it to the motor. The electric motor uses the AC current to create torque (mechanical power) to power the wheels for propulsion. HEVs use two electrical machines: one as a generator connected to the engine and another as a motor to drive the wheels. Each of these machines is connected to an inverter, and the two inverters run at a higher voltage than the battery. Based on vehicle type, the automotive fuse market can be classified into passenger vehicles (PV) and commercial vehicles (CV). Passenger vehicles include hatchback cars, sedans, multi- purpose vehicles (MPV), and sport utility vehicles (SUV). Commercial vehicles include light-weight commercial vehicles (LCV) and heavy commercial vehicles (HCV). The passenger vehicles segment is likely to hold a significant market share due to higher production of passenger vehicles compared to commercial vehicles. In terms of voltage output, the automotive fuse market can be divided into 12 V and four others. 12 V fuses are used in less power consuming electric devices. Based on application, the automotive fuse market can be segmented into engine and five others. As engine maintenance is important and can be achieved by controlling emission, the engine segment holds a prominent share of the automotive fuse market. In terms of motor output, the automotive fuse market can be segmented into less than 80 kW and two others. Based on battery capacity, the automotive fuse market can be classified into less than 30 kWh and three others. In terms of ampere, the automotive fuse market can be categorized into less than 40 A and three more. Request For Discount On This Report @https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=D&rep_id=42416 Based on sales channel, the automotive fuse market can be segmented into original equipment manufacturer (OEM) and aftermarket. Most consumers prefer local manufacturers in order to replace the fuse, which reduces the replacement cost. The aftermarket segment is expected to dominate the automotive fuse market during the forecast period. In terms region, the automotive fuse market can be segmented into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and Rest of the World (ROW). Asia Pacific accounts for a dominant share of the global automotive fuse market as the countries in this region such as China and India are more populous, and they have started adopting advanced technology recently. Countries in Latin America such as Brazil are focusing on new technology vehicles. Several leading automotive manufacturers are from North America and Asia Pacific, and they contribute the economies of the countries through the electronics industry. Some of the key players in the automotive fuse market are ON Semiconductor, Littelfuse, Inc., MERSEN, Pacific Engineering Corporation, Eaton, SCHURTER Holding AG, OptiFuse, and EM Components (USA), Inc. Pune, Maharashtra -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/09/2019 -- Carotid stenting system is a non-surgical, percutaneous procedure, generally indicated for improving the lumen diameter of carotid arteries patients considered at high risk for strokes or transient ischemic attacks (TIAs). As the procedure of carotid stenting systems is less invasive and better tolerated, they are considered to safe and effective alternative to surgical procedures for the treatment of carotid occlusive disease in patients who are at high surgical risk or inoperable. These factors are likely to augment the development of carotid stenting systems market. In the recent years, there has been increase in the number of patients with cardiovascular disease such as coronary artery disease and atherosclerosis, primarily due to aging, pollution, smoking, changing lifestyle habits, and others. This has led to surge in the demand for carotid stenting systems and complementing the expansion of its market across the globe. Prevention and treatment methods of carotid occlusive disease are also being in low- and medium-economies which is expected to fuel growth of carotid stenting systems market. These systems lower the risk that usually prevails in conventional surgical treatment. Further, adoption of technological advancement and new innovations to improve the treatment will possibly shape the future of carotid stenting systems market. Carotid artery stenting (CAS) is an endovascular procedure to treat narrowing of the carotid artery, which reduces the risk of transient ischemic attacks (TIAs) or strokes. It involves the placement of a stent in the carotid artery to treat narrowing of the carotid artery and decreases the risk of stroke. A stent is a metal or plastic tube inserted into the lumen of the carotid artery to avoid its narrowing and thereby keeping the passageway open for blood flow. Carotid stenting is the preferred therapy for patients, who do not want to undergo carotid surgery. Request Free Sample Report@ https://www.factmr.com/connectus/sample?flag=S&rep_id=1025 Carotid Stenting Systems Market: Drivers and Restraints The increasing graph of cardiac diseases such as atherosclerosis, coronary artery diseases driven by growing risk factors such as high consumption of cholesterol rich foods, sedentary lifestyles, substance abuse, diabetes, obesity and high blood pressure is the key driver for the growth of the global carotid stenting systems market. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, coronary artery disease (CAD) is the most common heart disease in the U.S. and is the leading cause of deaths, claiming over 370,000 lives annually. Technological advancement in stents such as drug eluting stents, use of biodegradable, and bio-absorbable materials for stent construction, improvements in stent design such as bifurcated stents and others are driving the growth of the global carotid stenting systems market owing to greater efficiency and efficacy. Improvements in implantation techniques and development of complementary technologies such as real-time diagnostic imaging such as computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging and others have resulted in greater confidence and concurrent number of stenting procedures performed. Another advancement is the development of stent coatings to combat stent-based trauma, and restenosis. The restraining factors of the global carotid stenting systems market are high cost of the procedure, risk of infection and stent failure, thrombosis, restenosis or the re-narrowing of the arteries, and lack of of trained manpower and specialty hospitals. The global carotid stenting systems market also faces competition from balloon angioplasty, coronary angioplasty, and carotid endarterectomy. Carotid Stenting Systems Market: Segmentation The global carotid stenting systems market is segmented based on components, route of administration, animal models, clinical indications, study design, and region. Based on material of construction, the global carotid stenting systems market is divided into the following: Bare Metal Stents Stainless Steel Nickel titanium Cobalt Chromium Others Polymers Poly- lactide/glycolide acid Polycaprolactone Others Others Based on configuration, the global carotid stenting systems market is divided into the following: Open Cell Closed Cell Based on specialty, the global carotid stenting systems market is divided into the following: Bio Absorbable and Biodegradable Stent Drug Eluting Stent Radioactive stents Others Carotid Stenting Systems Market: Overview The global market for carotid stenting systems is consolidated with a few large players dominating the scene. The market trends include a definite shift in favor of developing regions of Asia Pacific, such as India and China. There is also a strong trend of collaboration between large hospitals and third party payers owing to growing adoption of healthcare insurance. Request/View TOC@ https://www.factmr.com/connectus/sample?flag=T&rep_id=1025 Carotid Stenting Systems Market: Regional Outlook The global carotid stenting systems market is classified into regions viz. North America, Latin America, Western Europe, Eastern Europe, Asia-Pacific, Japan, Middle East and Africa. North America is expected to account a large share in the global carotid stenting systems market owing to concentration of key market players, consolidation of healthcare, and large research and development expenditure. The Asia Pacific excluding Japan carotid stenting systems market is expected to grow at a significant CAGR owing to growing healthcare expenditure. China and India are expected to drive a lion's share of the market growth owing to growing healthcare infrastructure and expenditure. The expanding number of cases owing to growing risk factors is another driver of the market. Europe carotid stenting systems market is expected to be led by Germany, France and the U.K. The Middle East and Africa carotid stenting systems market is expected to be skewed in favor of the gulf economies of Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Qatar. The development of large medical complexes such as the King Fahd Hospital in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, coupled with the large public healthcare share of which is approximately 75 % of the total healthcare expenditure is expected to drive the market for carotid stenting systems in the MEA. Carotid Stenting Systems Market: Key Players Examples of some of the major players operating in the global carotid stenting systems market are Abbott Vascular, Boston Scientific Corporation, Cardinal Health Company, Medtronic, Silk Road Medical, InspireMD, Balton Sp. z o. o., etc. Collaboration between players and strategic business partnerships are the strategies that can yield premium. The global carotid stenting systems report is a compilation of first-hand information, qualitative and quantitative assessment by industry analysts, inputs from industry experts and industry participants across the value chain. The report provides in-depth analysis of parent market trends, macro-economic indicators and governing factors along with market attractiveness as per segments. The report also maps the qualitative impact of various market factors on market segments and geographies. The carotid stenting systems report covers exhaustive analysis on: Market Segments Market Dynamics Market Size Supply & Demand Current Trends/Issues/Challenges Competition & Companies involved Technology Value Chain Regional analysis includes North America (U.S., Canada) Latin America (Mexico, Brazil) Western Europe (Germany, Italy, U.K, Spain, France, Nordic countries, BENELUX) Eastern Europe (Russia, Poland, Rest Of Eastern Europe) Asia Pacific Excluding Japan (China, India, Australia & New Zealand) Japan Middle East and Africa (GCC, S. Africa, Rest Of MEA) Report Highlights: Detailed overview of parent market Changing market dynamics in the industry In-depth market segmentation Historical, current and projected market size in terms of volume and value Recent industry trends and developments Competitive landscape Strategies of key players and products offered Potential and niche segments, geographical regions exhibiting promising growth A neutral perspective on market performance Must-have information for market players to sustain and enhance their market footprint. Report Analysis@ https://www.factmr.com/report/1025/carotid-stenting-systems-market About Fact.MR Fact.MR is a fast-growing market research firm that offers the most comprehensive suite of syndicated and customized market research reports. We believe transformative intelligence can educate and inspire businesses to make smarter decisions. We know the limitations of the one-size-fits-all approach; that's why we publish multi-industry global, regional, and country-specific research reports. Contact Us Rohit Bhisey Fact.MR 11140 Rockville Pike Suite 400 Rockville, MD 20852 United States Email: sales@factmr.com Web: https://www.factmr.com/ Blog: https://factmrblog.com/ New York, NY -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/09/2019 -- Commodity chemicals (bulk chemicals) are a group of chemicals that are made on a very large scale and act as intermediates to produce other chemicals, which, in turn are used to produce a extensive range of end-user products including construction materials, adhesives, plastics, apparel and tires. Commodity chemicals are the largest sub-segment of the chemical industry. Commodity chemicals are commonly traded under broad categories such as organics, inorganics, plastics resins, synthetic rubbers, fibers, films, explosives and petrochemicals. These broad categories include chemicals such as, acetic acid, acetone, acrylate esters, adipic acid, acrylonitrate, benzene, bisphenol, butadiene, butanediol, butyl acetate, hexane, melamine, polyvinyl chloride, propylene, methanol, methyl, glycol and glycerines. These chemical are very low in product differentiation, and hence making price the dominant economic factor in purchasing decisions for the end users. The commodity chemical industry is highly fragmented and served with large number of local or regional players. Asia Pacific is by far the largest market for commodity chemicals accounting almost half of the total market. It is followed by North America and Europe. The growth prospective is still high in Asia Pacific attributed to the growing economy and ongoing trend and support for manufacturing sector in the developing countries such as India, China, and Indonesia. Bulk availability of crude oil and natural gas from gulf countries such as Saudi Arabian, Iran, Iraq and Syria is helping the commodity chemical industries in Asia Pacific. A sample of this report is available upon request @ https://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/samples/2787 Commodity chemicals serve a wide range of industries ranging from personal care products to aerospace industries. It has its application either directly or indirectly in almost all manufacturing industries. The economy growth and increasing Gross domestic product (GDP) of developed and developing countries around the world is boosting the overall market of commodity chemicals. However the stiff regulation of the governments around the world regarding the health and environment side effect of chemicals and fluctuating prices of crude oil and natural gas are posing significant challenge for the industry. Some of the major players in commodity chemicals market include, BASF SE, Bayer AG, The Dow Chemical Company, Mitsubishi Chemical Holdings Corporation, PPG industries, Linde Group, Akzo Nobel, LyondellBasell Industries, Asahi Kasei, Sumitomo chemicals, Evonik Industries, INEOS Group Holding and Chem China. To view TOC of this report is available upon request @ https://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/toc/2787 New York, NY -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/09/2019 -- Ferrochromium, also known as Ferrochrome, is an alloy of iron and chromium containing 50 to 70% of chromium. It is produced by electric arc melting of chromium ore and chromite. Ferrochromium is consumed extensively in the manufacturing of steel to achieve the qualities such as corrosion resistance, tensile strength, heat resistance and yield strength. The global ferrochromium market is anticipated to be in deficit to cater the increasing global steel market in near future. Ferrochromium is mostly produced in India, China, South Africa and Kazakhstan because of large chromite resources found in these countries. The global ferrochromium market is witnessing a modest single digit CAGR growth up till now and is expected to continue in future. Request Sample Report@ https://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/samples/10046 Ferrochromium is having its maximum share of consumption in steel industry and due to the ever increasing construction and demand of steel the global ferrochromium market is forecasted to flourish. In order to get a continuous supply of raw material for ferrochrome, China has established its operations in the countries like Turkey, South Africa, Philippines and Zimbabwe which would boost the global ferrochromium market in future. Due to the favourable conditions like lower electricity price and lower labour cost in upcoming markets like China, the production cost reduces comparatively. This will boost the production of ferrochrome to suffice its increasing demand and will contribute in global ferrochromium market. The global ferrochromium market can get hampered because of the increase in the export tax and fixed export quotas imposed by South Africa on chrome ore, owing to the concern of losing ferrochromium market to China. South Africa is having a significant market share in global ferrochromium market but there are concerns of power supply and higher production cost which would lead to the closure of small competitors and is estimated to slowdown the global ferrochromium market. Based on the carbon percentage, the global ferrochromium market is segmented as - Extra low carbon ferrochromium powder Low carbon ferrochromium powder High carbon ferrochromium powder Extra high carbon ferrochromium powder Based in the available form, the global ferrochromium market is segmented as Ferrochromium slag Ferrochromium powder Based on the application, the global ferrochromium market is segmented as Ball bearing steels Acid resistant steels Cast irons Powder metallurgy Others (civil engineering, refractory materials) Request Report TOC@ https://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/toc/10046 The global ferrochromium market can be divided into five regions, namely North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and Middle East and Africa. Asia Pacific is having the maximum market share in global ferrochromium market, China and India are the countries having an excellent steel market, so these countries are significant in the consumption of ferrochrome. China is expanding its capacity to import chrome ore for the production of ferrochrome from the countries like South Africa, Turkey, Zimbabwe. Middle East and Africa are also marking a significant growth in the global ferrochromium market, Especially South Africa is having plenty of chromite resources for the production of ferrochrome. Europe is an emerging market in the field of ferrochrome and is anticipated to have a considerable market in future due to the flourishing automobile sector in the region. North America and Latin America is at a nascent stage in the global ferrochromium market. Some of the key players in global ferrochromium market are, Nava Bharat Ventures Limited, VISA STEEL, Balasore Alloys Limited, Aarti Steels Ltd, SR Group, Vyankatesh Metals & Alloys Pvt. Ltd The report covers exhaustive analysis on: Ferrochromium Market Segments Ferrochromium Market Dynamics Historical Actual Market Size, 2012 - 2014 Ferrochromium Market Size & Forecast 2015 to 2025 Supply & Demand Value Chain Ferrochromium Market Current Trends/Issues/Challenges Competition & Companies involved Technology Value Chain Ferrochromium Market Drivers and Restraints Regional analysis for Ferrochromium Market includes North America Latin America Europe Asia Pacific & Japan The Middle East and Africa Report Highlights: Shifting Industry dynamics In-depth market segmentation Historical, current and projected industry size Recent industry trends Key Competition landscape Strategies of key players and product offerings Potential and niche segments/regions exhibiting promising growth A neutral perspective towards market performance Edison, NJ -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/09/2019 -- Global Fitness, Club and Gym Management Software System Market Size, Status and Forecast 2019-2025 is latest research study released by HTF MI evaluating the market, highlighting opportunities, risk side analysis, and leveraged with strategic and tactical decision-making support. The study provides information on market trends and development, drivers, capacities, technologies, and on the changing capital structure of the Global Fitness, Club and Gym Management Software System Market. Some of the key players profiled in the study are MINDBODY, PushPress, Virtuagym, RhinoFit, Glofox, Omnify, Zen Planner, Club OS, Wodify Pro, Fonbell, GymMaster, EZFacility, Zenoti, Chambermaster, WellnessLiving & FitnessForce. In 2018, the global Fitness, Club and Gym Management Software System market size was xx million US$ and it is expected to reach xx million US$ by the end of 2025, with a CAGR of xx% during 2019-2025. This report focuses on the global Fitness, Club and Gym Management Software System status, future forecast, growth opportunity, key market and key players. The study objectives are to present the Fitness, Club and Gym Management Software System development in United States, Europe and China. Fitness, Club and Gym Management Software System Market Overview: If you are involved in the Fitness, Club and Gym Management Software System industry or intend to be, then this study will provide you comprehensive outlook. It's vital you keep your market knowledge up to date segmented by SMBs & Large Business, , Web-based & App-based and major players. If you have a different set of players/manufacturers according to geography or needs regional or country segmented reports we can provide customization according to your requirement. Enquire for customization in Report @ https://www.htfmarketreport.com/enquiry-before-buy/1831565-global-fitness-club-and-gym-management-software-system-market Fitness, Club and Gym Management Software System Market: Demand Analysis & Opportunity Outlook 2023 Research study is to define market sizes of various segments & countries in previous years and to forecast the values to the next 5-8 years. The report is designed to comprise each qualitative and quantitative elements of the industry facts including: market share, market size (value and volume 2012-17, and forecast to 2023) with admire to each of the areas and countries concerned inside the examination. Furthermore, the report additionally caters the detailed statistics about the vital elements which includes drivers & restraining factors which will define the future growth of the market. Furthermore, the years considered for the study are as follows: Historical year 2013-2017 Base year 2018 Forecast period** 2018 to 2023 [** unless otherwise stated] Moreover, it will also include the opportunities available in micro markets for stakeholders to invest, detailed analysis of competitive landscape and product services of key players. The designated segments and sub-section of the market are explained below: The Study is segmented by following Product Type: , Web-based & App-based Major applications/end-users industry are as follows: SMBs & Large Business Some of the key Manufacturers Involved in the Market are MINDBODY, PushPress, Virtuagym, RhinoFit, Glofox, Omnify, Zen Planner, Club OS, Wodify Pro, Fonbell, GymMaster, EZFacility, Zenoti, Chambermaster, WellnessLiving & FitnessForce You can get free access to samples from the report here: https://www.htfmarketreport.com/sample-report/1831565-global-fitness-club-and-gym-management-software-system-market For each region, market size and end users are analyzed as well as segment markets by types, applications and companies. If opting for the Global version of Fitness, Club and Gym Management Software System Market analysis is provided for major regions as follows: - North America (USA, Canada and Mexico) - Europe (Germany, France, UK, Russia and Italy) - Asia-Pacific (China, Japan, Korea, India and Southeast Asia) - South America (Brazil, Argentina, Columbia etc.) - Middle East and Africa (Saudi Arabia, UAE, Egypt, Nigeria and South Africa) Buy this research report @ https://www.htfmarketreport.com/buy-now?format=1&report=1831565 Key Answers Captured in Study are Which geography would have better demand for product/services? What are the strategies adopted by big players in the regional market? Which country would see the steep rise in CAGR & year-on-year (Y-O-Y) growth? What is the current & expected market size in next five years? What is the market feasibility for long term investment? What opportunity the country would offer for existing and new players in the Fitness, Club and Gym Management Software System market? What is risk involved for suppliers in the geography? What factors would drive the demand for the product/service in near future? What is the impact analysis of various factors in the Global Fitness, Club and Gym Management Software System market growth? What are the recent trends in the regional market and how successful they are? Read Detailed Index of full Research Study at @ https://www.htfmarketreport.com/reports/1831565-global-fitness-club-and-gym-management-software-system-market There are 15 Chapters to display the Global Fitness, Club and Gym Management Software System market. Chapter 1, About Executive Summary to describe Definition, Specifications and Classification of Global Fitness, Club and Gym Management Software System market, Applications [SMBs & Large Business], Market Segment by Regions United States, Europe, China, Japan, Southeast Asia, India & Central & South America; Chapter 2, objective of the study. Chapter 3, to display Research methodology and techniques. Chapter 4 and 5, to show the Overall Market Analysis, segmentation analysis, characteristics; Chapter 6 and 7, to show the Market size, share and forecast; Five forces analysis (bargaining Power of buyers/suppliers), Threats to new entrants and market condition; Chapter 8 and 9, to show analysis by regional segmentation[United States, Europe, China, Japan, Southeast Asia, India & Central & South America ], comparison, leading countries and opportunities; Regional Marketing Type Analysis, Supply Chain Analysis Chapter 10, focus on identifying the key industry influencer's, overview of decision framework accumulated through Industry experts and strategic decision makers; Chapter 11 and 12, Market Trend Analysis, Drivers, Challenges by consumer behaviour, Marketing Channels and demand & supply. Chapter 13 and 14, describe about the vendor landscape (classification and Market Positioning) Chapter 15, deals with Global Fitness, Club and Gym Management Software System Market sales channel, distributors, traders, dealers, Research Findings and Conclusion, appendix and data source. Thanks for reading this article; you can also get individual chapter wise section or region wise report version like North America, Europe or Asia or Oceania [Australia and New Zealand]. Albany, NY -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/09/2019 -- According to a new market report published by Transparency Market Research titled 'Industrial Agitator Market Global Industry Analysis, Size, Share, Growth, Trends, and Forecast, 20192027, the global industrial agitator market is expected to reach US$ 2,324.9 Mn by 2027, expanding at a CAGR of 4.1% from 2019 to 2027. In terms of volume, the global industrial agitator market is expected to reach 424.8 '000 units by 2027, expanding at a CAGR of 3.9% during the forecast period. Based on region, the global market has been segmented into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa (MEA), and South America. North America is the second-largest market for industrial agitator in the world. Various end-use industries, ranging from oil, gas and petrochemical to water and wastewater treatment, utilize industrial agitators for mixing purposes. In North America, the U.S. is a prominent market for industrial agitator, followed by Canada. The U.S. is a major producers of natural gas, including shale gas, in the world. As per the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), in December 2018, the U.S. produced about 65 billion cubic feet per day (Bcf/d) of natural gas (shale gas and tight oil), which is about 70.0% of total U.S. natural gas production. Browse The Report: https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/industrial-agitator-market.html Furthermore, in December 2018, the country produced about seven million barrels per day (b/d) of crude oil, which is 60.0% of the total U.S. oil production. Compared to production a decade ago, in December 2008, natural gas (shale gas and tight oil) accounted for 16% of total U.S. gas production and about 12% of U.S. total crude oil production. Thus, a rise in the demand for shale gas across the U.S. is boosting the demand for industrial agitators across North America. Europe is the third-largest market for industrial agitator in the world. Among the various end-use industries that use industrial agitators across Europe, food & beverage is a prominent end-user. The food & beverage industry is a prominent manufacturing industry in Europe, in terms of gross value added to the economy and number of people employed. Germany, the U.K., and France are major markets for industrial agitator in Europe. In terms of value addition by the food & beverage sector, Germany is a notable market in Europe. Therefore, a rise in the demand for food & beverage products is driving the production of food & beverage, which is subsequently propelling the demand for industrial agitators in Germany. Asia Pacific is a significant market for industrial agitator in the world. In Asia Pacific, China is a major market for industrial agitator, followed by Japan and India. As per the CEFIC (European Chemical Industry Council), China increased its share of global chemical sales from 14.8% in 2007 to 37.2% in 2017. Both South Korea and India increased their share of global chemical sales from 3.3% and 2.1% in 2007, respectively, to 3.5% and 2.9% in 2017, respectively. On the other hand, the share held by Japan of the global chemical sales declined from 6.8% in 2007 to 4.4% in 2017. Therefore, a rise in the demand for chemicals across the countries in Asia Pacific is propelling the demand for industrial agitators in the region. Get Sample Copy of this report @ https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=B&rep_id=7421 Middle East & Africa (MEA) is a relatively minor market for industrial agitator in the world. GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) countries, which include the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, Kuwait, and Bahrain, is a prominent market for industrial agitator in the region. South Africa is the second-largest market in MEA. South America is the fourth-largest market for industrial agitator in the world. Brazil is a prominent market for industrial agitator in South America. Expansion of oil & gas industry in Brazil is driving the demand for industrial agitators in Brazil. he value chain of the global industrial agitator market consists of raw material suppliers, assemblers, distribution network, and post-sale customer service market players. Assemblers are major players in the industrial agitator market. Various end-use industries that employ industrial agitators include water & wastewater treatment, food & beverage, chemical, oil, gas & petrochemical, and pharmaceutical. Industrial agitator assemblers have developed long-term supply contracts with raw material suppliers to develop economies of scale, resulting in reduced cost of production. Aftersales service, regular repair, and maintenance are required by various end-use industries employing industrial agitators. Wayne, PA -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/09/2019 -- Integrity Eye Associates knows firsthand that eyeglasses aren't just a toolthey're a fashion statement. An ill-fitting pair of glasses isn't just annoyingthey can also cause the wearer to feel less confident. Therefore, this is why the team at Integrity Eye Associates is proud to offer a wide selection of quality designer frames to customers from Paoli, PA, and other parts of Pennsylvania who visit their store located at 154 E. Lancaster Avenue in Wayne, PA. Everyone who wears glasses has their own style, and Integrity Eye Associates carries a large selection of frames that can perfectly compliment any man, woman, or child's sense of personal expression. For residents who aren't sure exactly what style they prefer, the team at Integrity Eye Associates is available to help choose frames that make the wearer look his or her best. By considering skin tone, facial structure, and eye color, Integrity Eye Associates offers each of their customers a personalized experience that leaves them looking and feeling great when they step outside. No matter if they're picking up their first pair or grabbing a second pair of reading glasses for work, Integrity Eye Associates has what Pennsylvanians are looking for. Anyone interested in checking out Integrity Eye Associates frame selection or who would like to schedule an eye exam at their office near Paoli, PA, is encouraged to give their team a call today. The practice can also be found online at https://integrityeyes.com, where interested parties can fill out a contact form. About Integrity Eye Associates Integrity Eye Associates has been serving the Wayne, King of Prussia, Paoli, and Main Line area for over 6 years. New and current patients alike can enjoy professional eye care services including comprehensive eye exams and products, such as prescription eyewear and sunglasses, designer frames, and contact lenses. Integrity Eye Associates is dedicated to their patient's eye health and overall well-being. To learn more about Integrity Eye Associates or make an appointment, please visit their website, https://integrityeyes.com/. Editor's note: Azhar Azam works in a private organization as a market & business analyst and writes about geopolitical issues and regional conflicts. The article reflects the author's opinion, and not necessarily the views of CGTN. U.S. bitterness towards China is progressively sharpening. Every other month, it releases a Beijing-targeted report about growing threats from China, its trade or human rights practices, or any other issue that could blight Chinese national integrity. So is the case with the latest U.S. Department of Defense (DOD)'s report to Congress that exhumes a Chinese military-political axis between the People's Liberation Army (PLA) and the Communist Party of China (CPC). The report whispered that on the military front, the PLA is focusing on the development of psychological, public opinion and legal warfare to conduct influence operations against the media, cultural, business, academic and policy communities of the U.S. and other countries. And on the political side, the CPC is conditioning the world to accept China's narrative on the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and its territorial and maritime claims in the South China Sea, consequently to ensure CPC rule and secure China's status as a great power particularly in the Indo-Pacific (Asia-Pacific) region. Interestingly, the reproval came from a state that has a long history of these kinds of hybrid maneuvers such as propaganda campaigns, disseminating false information to gain public opinion, and improvising domestic and internal laws to coerce the support of United Nations and other foreign countries. The Republic of Korea (ROK) troops participate in a regular joint exercise with the U.S. military in Pohang in southeastern ROK, April 5, 2018. /VCG Photo Afghanistan and Iraq are the two foremost examples of how the White House-Pentagon conjointly used media to spread disinformation and exploited international laws to influence national and global public opinion and forced them to believe that Kabul was harboring terrorists and Baghdad had weapons of mass destruction (WMDs). Nearly two decades later, the U.S. realized that its intelligence information about Iraqi WMDs was based on unreliable documents while it also realized the importance of Afghan Taliban in Afghan politics and attaining sustainable peace in the country. The U.S. is now going after China but it knows very well that the PLA is terribly stronger than those of Afghan and Iraqi militaries, and also that China can't be isolated as the economic survival of even some of the developed economies are tied to it. So, the only solution to weaken Beijing is through creating resentment against China in its friendly countries and also by trying to make PLA controversial across the world. The U.S., however, needs the support of the media (both print and television) to manufacture public opinion and the support of Congress to legislate in a way that discourages any trade and cooperation with China. But unfortunately to the U.S., the institutions it is relying on to besmirch Beijing are already losing the trust of the American people. Congress, which is supposed to be a highly dignified public office, as a matter of fact, is the least-trusted institution in the country, followed by television news and newspapers. Although in its report, DOD is very concerned about PLA's influence on media, the claims of U.S. media to be free and vibrant were fizzled out after CNN commentator Marc Lamont Hill was fired by the cable news network within 24 hours of his pro-Palestinian speech at the United Nations. Similarly, Trump has been accusing China of meddling in the U.S. midterm elections with the aim of damaging him politically and the use of American media to influence foreign opinion. But he ignores the facts that several publications and broadcasters such as Voice of America (VOA) are supported by his country. Ironically in 2018, the Broadcasting Board of Governors that oversees VOA and other TV and radio networks in Middle East and Cuba requested 685.1 million U.S. dollars from Congress for what it described as countering Russian misinformation, enhancing programming for the Democratic People's Republic of Korea audiences, and meeting U.S. strategic objectives against China and other countries that do not share American values (and) are attempting to make further inroads." The commentaries and opinions of most of the U.S. media outlets are determined to prove that China first politically tempts the foreign countries towards its BRI, and once they are caught in a debt trap, it uses military to control their strategic assets and expand its influence." Realistically any country, with hundreds of billions of dollars in mega infrastructure projects such as BRI, needs a robust and intelligent military to protect its national investments. In China's case, the onus of protecting BRI sits on the PLA and any concept of Chinese increased militarization should be measured in this contextual and not necessarily with methodical skepticism. Also, if PLA is striving for global Chinese domination by building military bases, how could the DOD get away from the U.S. martial presence worldwide that comprises about 4,800 defense sites in more than 160 countries in all the seven continents of the world? It is due to the binding U.S. regulation that countries like Japan cannot maintain their own military and have to rely on paid protection of the U.S. Obviously, the U.S. envisages that PLA is growing into a formidable military force that could pose a real threat to its global military domination and most importantly, will be capable of securing Chinese national interests overseas. New York, NY -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/09/2019 -- Lead is a soft and malleable metal belonging to the carbon group. It is the heaviest non-radioactive element which occurs naturally on earth in the form of four isotopes: lead-208, 207, 206, and 204. It is generally found in ores with copper, silver and zinc and is extracted together with these metals. Lead compounds exist in two main oxidation states: +4 and +2. It is widely used in construction activities, production of weights, lead-acid batteries, and as a radiation shield. Conventional lead-acid batteries have a significant history in providing energy storage for a wide range of end-use applications, in mobile as well as stationary applications. The global market for lead has been witnessing noticeable growth on account of growing lead-acid battery consumption. In addition, the global demand is estimated to be significant in the coming years as capacity expansions and new operations boost supply at a faster rate than demand. Request For Report Sample @https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/sample/rep-gb-163 According to government sources of various developed and developing economies, their nationwide demand for energy is expected to be doubled within the next decade. Owing to this, various countries such as China and India have started making huge investments in smart grid technology in order to meet the huge demand for power. Potential investments in smart grid technology has further lead to the growth of lead-acid batteries which are used in electrical vehicles (EV) which serve as one of the major component in the smart grid technology. Lead-acid battery exports and production have strongly recovered in China after the wide-ranging environmentally motivated cutbacks in 2011. In addition, increasing adoption of advanced vehicle technologies such as stop-start & hybrid vehicles and renewable energy generation is contributing towards the innovation in lead-based battery segment. Lead-acid batteries based on modern technologies have also been gaining significant importance in applications where batteries are considered extremely vital for their mechanism, as well as in new applications such as grid storage for renewable energy generation. Growth of the building construction industry is anticipated to be one of the major factors driving the demand for lead over the next few years. Lead is widely used in the construction industry as architectural metals for roofing materials, gutters and gutter joints, and on roof parapets. Moreover, increasing demand for lead-acid batteries for automotive application on account of rising automobile industry is expected to contribute to the growth of the market. However, growing health concerns regarding the use of lead paints is expected to slow down the growth of the market. North America was the largest consumer for lead owing to its vast construction and automobile industry. The demand in Europe is expected to rise moderately on account of declining automobile sales. However, future market growth is expected to be from Asia Pacific on account of rising demand for energy in smart grid technology which includes electrical vehicles operated on lead batteries. This factor is further expected to provide new opportunities for the growth of the market. Development of absorbed glass mat (AGM) lead acid batteries on account of their favorable characteristic of being maintenance-free are also expected to provide growth opportunities for the lead market. Request For Report Table of Content (TOC): https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/toc/rep-gb-163 Canada Metal, EAST PENN Manufacturing Co. Inc., EnerSys IncGlobal Metals, Gravita metals, Johnson Control Inc., and M.A. Metal Corporation are some of the lead manufacturers present in the industry. Albany, NY -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/09/2019 -- Transparency Market Research (TMR) delivers key updates and insights on the global lemon essential oil market, in its upcoming outlook titled,Due to the growing demand for fortified edible oils across developing countries, manufacturers of edible oils have been initiating voluntary fortification in the recent years. This practice not only ensures the increased nourishment and quality of edible oils but also promotes the extended consumption of fortified edible oils in the coming years. For instance, countries such as Malaysia and Indonesia are involved in significant voluntary fortification programs, contributing to around 18% of the production of global fortified edible oils. In terms of value, the global lemon essential oil market is estimated to account for a Compound Annual Growth Rate of 5.5% during the forecast period, bound to various market factors, regarding which, TMR offers imperative insights in detail. Request to view Sample Report: https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=S&rep_id=54378 On the basis of end use, the aromatherapy segment is expected to maintain its dominance in the lemon essential oil market, with a significant CAGR of 6.5% during the forecast period. The increased demand for therapeutic and aromatic oils such as lemon essential oil across the globe due to the growing preference for harmless, convenient, and natural alternatives to traditional allopathic solutions has contributed to the high compound annual growth rate. Yet another factor for the stupendous growth is that, lemon essential oil is priced much higher than all other products in which lemon essential oil is an ingredient. As a developing economy with a higher prevalence of poor health conditions among the population suffering from respiratory complications, blood pressure, cancer, and others, Asia Pacific holds the highest growth rate of lemon essential oil as compared to other regions. As lemon essential oil has remunerative health benefits such as anti-carcinogenic and detoxifying nature, it contributes to the higher consumption, which is anticipated to drive the high growth rate of the lemon essential oil market in Asia Pacific except Japan, accounting for 6.9% during the forecast period. Specialty retail formats selling exclusive products in aromatic compounds has been gaining traction in recent years. Specialty products such as lemon essential oil have wider availability with various grades, which is anticipated to contribute to the high compound annual growth rate of 7.1% during the forecast period. Request for Customization @ https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=CR&rep_id=54378 Ethnic food is defined as food that is part of the culture and tradition of a particular ethnic group. These are mostly prepared from locally available materials, and are generally considered as healthy due to the use of natural or organic ingredients. Since it is costly to import ingredients that are specific to particular regions, manufacturers use essential oils such as lemon essential oil to mimic the flavor of the original ingredient. Since lemon oil is also plant-derived, it is considered natural and healthy. As a result, lemon essential oil is expected to witness significant increase in demand for application in ethnic food produced by food and beverage manufacturers, in the near future. This report covers the trends driving each segment, and offers various analysis, insights, and potential growth of the lemon essential oil market in specific regions. According to market attractiveness, Asia Pacific and North America are relatively more attractive regions in the lemon essential oil market. Based on end use, the lemon essential oil market is segmented as food and beverages, pharmaceuticals, aromatherapy, cosmetics & personal care, and households. Valley Cottage, NY -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/09/2019 -- Envelope paper market -Introduction: The envelope paper is well known to all the people as it is a routine product of use with the growth of industrialization, education and commercial activities. An envelope is a common packaging item which is only a folded piece of paper mainly designed to contain a flat object like card or letter and yet an important part of our national communications system. Envelope paper was developed in China when a paper was invented by 2ndcentury BC. The envelopes are preferred because of its strength like weather resistance, good printability etc. Throughout the history, an envelope is an essential form of communication. Earlier, messages were sent in the closed containers or under the seal which can be found in various books of the bible. Envelope paper market - Market Dynamics: One of the significant factors that will contribute to the growth of the envelope paper market is the increase in demand for packaging envelopes and mailers because many web based e-commerce businesses require versatile packaging to transport goods through the mail for various products. Another factor towards the growth of the envelope paper market is parcel delivery industry which offers shipping envelopes free to their customers by the providers of overnight services such as Express mail, Federal Express etc. The envelope paper are light weight, occupy less storage space, easily transportable, and recyclable, which is good for environment conscious customers and also a major driver for the growth of envelope paper market. However, envelope sales are declining in line with the overall industry due to alternative means of transmitting information such as electronic mail, fax machines, the internet, voice mail message and other electronic communication system. But, new technologies have rarely abolished old technologies, they simply move them into new applications just like television did not eliminate radio broadcasts. However, modern people losing the tradition and rituals to exchange money envelopes during the marriage or any other occasion and also the use of digital payment system like net banking and e-wallets for transferring money is also hindering the growth of envelope paper market. Request to Sample of Report @ https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/sample/rep-gb-4857 Envelope paper market - Market Segmentation: The envelope paper market is segmented on the basis of material type, envelope type, size type, and thickness type. On the basis of material type, the envelope paper market is segmented into wood pulp, cotton fiber, paperboard, synthetic substrates and others. On the basis of envelope type, the envelope paper market is segmented into open side envelope and open end envelope. The open side envelope is where the longest side or top of the envelope is open and the open-end envelope is where the side of the envelope is open. On the basis of size type, the envelope paper market is segmented into a wide range of sizes generally starting around 4*7 to as large as 19*22 in some products. On the basis of thickness type, the envelope paper market is segmented into 80, 90, 100 gsm and others. Envelope paper market - Regional Outlook: Geographically, the envelope paper market can be segmented into North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and Middle East & Africa. India and China have expected the significant growth in envelope paper market due to some key factors which include growing population, expanding the base of professionals, increasing literacy rates, and government initiatives to improve education sector. North America and Europe are expecting a significant growth due to a high standard of living and increasing of disposable incomes. The Middle East and Africa are expected to observe considerable growth rates in envelope paper market in the near future. Envelope paper market - Major Players: Some of the major Key players identified across the globe in the envelope paper market are Vatvruksh, Pranita Enterprises, Multi M Enterprises, Cenveo Corporation, L A Envelope Inc., Om Express Print Pack Private Limited, Ravi Exports, Arora Gifts Private Limited, Rama Pulp and Papers Limited. The report is a compilation of first-hand information, qualitative and quantitative assessment by industry analysts, inputs from industry experts and industry participants across the value chain. The report provides in-depth analysis of parent market trends, macro-economic indicators and governing factors along with market attractiveness as per segments. The report also maps the qualitative impact of various market factors on market segments and geographies. Report Highlights : Detailed overview of parent market,Changing market dynamics in the industry,In-depth market segmentation,Historical, current and projected market size in terms of volume and value,Recent industry trends and developments,Competitive landscape,Strategies of key players and products offered,Potential and niche segments, geographical regions exhibiting promising growth,A neutral perspective on market performance,Must-have information for market players to sustain and enhance their market footprint. Request to Report Methodology @ https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/askus/rep-gb-4857 Albany, NY -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/09/2019 -- A noticeable increase in the prevalence of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma will lay the foundation for the steady growth of the global nebulizers market over the next three years, says Transparency Market Research in its latest report. The report is titled 'Nebulizers Market Global Industry Analysis, Size, Share, Growth, Trends and Forecast, 2013 2019.' Another factor that will support the growth of the global nebulizers market is the adoption of government initiatives to reduce the prevalence of respiratory diseases. This trend has been brought about by the increasing healthcare burden of conditions such as asthma and COPD among patients in developing countries. The report states that nebulizers constituted a global market worth US$610.0 mn in 2012 and will reach a valuation of US$937.7 mn by 2019. The CAGR of the market is pegged at 6.5% between 2013 and 2019. A nebulizer is a medical device that converts liquids into a fine spray that can be easily inhaled by a patient to allow the drug to reach the respiratory tract. Nebulizers are most commonly used by asthma patients. Over the years, nebulizers have evolved in design and compactness to allow easier administration of drugs to patients. However, one major drawback with the design of nebulizers, which hasn't been effectively addressed to date, is that a substantial amount of the drug is lost during delivery. TMR analysts say that this will restrain the growth of the global nebulizers market to some extent. Request A Sample: https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=S&rep_id=1436 New opportunities are emerging in the Asia Pacific region for companies in the global nebulizers market. A staggeringly high number of people in regions such as Asia Pacific and Latin America suffer from COPD owing to the high pollution levels and other environmental factors here. Investments in these regions are thus expected to fetch good returns. The report conducts a segment-wise analysis of the global nebulizers market. To do this, TMR analysts have segmented the market on the basis of product type and geography. The types of nebulizers studied in the report include: ultrasonic nebulizer, pneumatic nebulizer, and mesh nebulizer. The findings of the report show that pneumatic nebulizers held the largest share in the global nebulizers market by product type in 2012. These nebulizers are easy to carry and use, making them convenient for patients of different ages. Of the two types of pneumatic nebulizers breath-actuated and vented the share of the former was the highest in 2012. The breath-actuated pneumatic nebulizers segment is also expected to expand at the highest CAGR over the forecast period. Request Brochure of Report: https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=B&rep_id=2033 Based on geography, the market is segmented into Europe, North America, Asia Pacific, and Rest of the World. Among these, the largest share in the nebulizers market was held by North America in 2012. Several government programs aimed at containing cystic fibrosis, COPD, and asthma have also benefited the market's growth. Asia Pacific, being an emerging market, will exhibit the highest CAGR in the global nebulizers market through the report's forecast period, which ranges from 2013 to 2019. This is attributable not only to the massive patient pool in need of effective medical devices here but also the fact that manufacturers are scaling up operations in countries such as South Korea, China, India, and Japan. Players that have a strong hold over the global nebulizers market are GF Health Products, Inc., Philips Healthcare, Omron Healthcare, and PARI Respiratory, Inc. About Transparency Market Research Transparency Market Research (TMR) is a U.S.-based provider of syndicated research, customized research, and consulting services. TMR's global and regional market intelligence coverage includes industries such as pharmaceutical, chemicals and materials, technology and media, food and beverages, and consumer goods, among others. Each TMR research report provides clients with a 360-degree view of the market with statistical forecasts, competitive landscape, detailed segmentation, key trends, and strategic recommendations. Contact us: Transparency Market Research 90 State Street, Suite 700, Albany NY - 12207 United States Tel: +1-518-618-1030 USA - Canada Toll Free 866-552-3453 Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.com Website: http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/ Albany, NY -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/09/2019 -- According to a new market report published by Transparency Market Research titled "Reinsurance Market Global Industry Analysis, Size, Share, Growth, Trends, and Forecast, 2018 2026," the global reinsurance market was valued at US$ 241.14 Bn in 2017 and is expected to expand at a CAGR of 4.7% from 2018 to 2026, reaching a value of US$ 364.59 Bn by the end of the forecast period. According to the report, North America was a significant contributor to the reinsurance market in terms of revenue in 2017. The prominent market share of the region is due to the favorable regulatory environment and growth in property catastrophe protection in the reinsurance market across the region, especially in the U.S. and Canada. Request a Sample - https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=S&rep_id=55410 Favorable regulatory environment and growth in property catastrophe protection driving the global reinsurance market The global reinsurance market is currently driven by a favorable regulatory environment. Growing focus on sustainable growth has led to the relaxation in government rules globally. For instance, in September 2018, Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority (IRDA) approved revised reinsurance regulations in India. The core purpose behind revamping the regulations is that the maximum reinsurance business is held inside the nation and preference would be given to Indian domiciled entities. In 2016, the new SSN (Superintendence of Insurance) authorities removed the regulations which set minimum limits of insurers in projects involving small and medium enterprise. The new regulation now defines only maximum limits. Current regulatory variations are pushing the market to have fewer number of highly capitalized insurance companies. There are a large number of local players that need more capital to play in niche markets. Subsequently, demand for financial reinsurance is expected to increase in the coming years. Furthermore, increasing activity of foreign reinsurers in the global reinsurance market is contributing significantly to the growth of the market. Download PDF Sample for this Research Report @ https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=S&rep_id=55410 Thus, increasing regulatory oversight initiatives is expected to enhance reinsurance penetration, as they are expected to promote self-assurance in the insurance industry. Therefore, a favorable regulatory environment is expected to have a long term impact on the reinsurance market. Growing number of such favorable regulations by several government entities are expected to boost the reinsurance market in the coming years. Demand for property catastrophe protection is expected to contribute significantly to insurance renewals, provisioning any material reinsured loss. Furthermore, industries such as aviation, marine, automotive, healthcare, and agriculture are expected to show huge growth due to the high insurance penetration combined with the need to guard high value assets. Moreover, occurrence of natural calamities is encouraging individuals to avail reinsurance. Lack of disposable income is one of the major factors limiting the market growth. However, rising economic activities across the globe is expected to enhance investment in the insurance sector in the near future. The impact of this restraint is expected to remain low in the coming years. Kensington, CT -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/09/2019 -- For over three decades, their team of professionals at Riley Plumbing & Heating has provided plumbing service and electric water heater installation across Hartford County, CT, and surrounding areas. The company is now proud to offer information and assistance for the most common summer plumbing problems. Three of the most common plumbing problems faced by homeowners during summer are blocked toilets, sprinkler issues, and backups from the sewer line. Sewer line backups are often caused by rainfall shifting dirt into cracked pipes or roots growing into sewer lines. As these are unavoidable, it's recommended to seek professional assistance for backup problems. Generally, damaged sprinklers can be replaced with a trip to the local hardware store, and toilets can be easily unblocked with a plunger in most cases. Overloaded washing machines, sump pump failures, and blocked garbage disposal are another three of the most common plumbing issues faced by homeowners. Washing machine problems can be avoided by sticking to small loads and moving the machine away from the wall to avoid overheating. Sump pumps must be checked before the summer to ensure they are working in case of a flood. Additionally, homeowners are urged to run the cold tap for ten seconds before switching on their garbage disposals to prevent blockage. To find out more about the most common plumbing problems in the summertime, or for electric water heating services in Hartford County, CT, call the top-rated plumbing experts, Riley Plumbing & Heating at 860-225-1534 or visit https://rileyplumbingcompany.com/ today. About Riley Plumbing & Heating For more than 30 years, Riley Plumbing & Heating has offered their community the best HVAC and plumbing services from the most highly trained plumbing and heating technicians. Serving the Kensington, Connecticut area for all residential and commercial needs is their number one priority. Riley Plumbing & Heating is proud to serve their community and stay up to date with the latest technology to provide only the best services. Learn about what sets them apart on their website: https://rileyplumbingcompany.com/. Sellbyville, DE -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/09/2019 -- Global Market Insights, Inc. has launched a report on social media security market that elucidates an in-depth synopsis of this business vertical over the forecast period. The report is inclusive of the prominent industry drivers and provides an accurate analysis of the key growth trends and market outlook in the years to come in addition to the competitive hierarchy of this sphere. Social Media Security Market is drive by increasing trend of the e-commerce over the forecast timeframe. Online retailers leverage on the e-commerce platforms to connect with their customers and provide an enhanced personalized experience. They make it easier for retailers to enhance their businesses by getting leads for their products & services. However, these platforms also expose them to the potential risk of the cyber-attacks and data thefts. This gives rise to the requirement of content security solutions to secure the web content and confidential information of the e-commerce organizations. Request for an in-depth table of contents for this report @ https://www.gminsights.com/request-toc/upcoming/2886 North America is estimated to dominate the global market due to improvements in the internet infrastructure and the adoption of social media platforms by large organizations. This growing trend of social media among the organizations for business purposes increases the demand for advanced security solutions to secure the data and monitor malicious activities. Also, the presence of some of the key social media security solution providers in the region will trigger the social media security market growth. The Asia Pacific social media security market is projected to show an unprecedented growth during the forecast timeline due to rapid upgradations in digital infrastructures in the Asian countries. The countries, particularly India and China are investing considerably in digital infrastructure to facilitate the businesses, creating new channels of commerce and economic growth. Furthermore, as smartphones are getting cheaper, the individuals in developing countries are getting more inclined toward social media platforms for recreational purposes. The penetration of internet and mobile-based platforms have enabled the individuals to communicate in an interactive manner and exchange vast amounts of user-generated content. This exchange of information between the parties increases the risk of malicious activities and vulnerabilities that lead to data threats and breaches. This is also augmenting the demand for the social media security market among the organizations. Request for customization of this report @ https://www.gminsights.com/roc/2886 Social Media Security Market in retail segment is expected to show the faster adoption rate over 2018 2024. With the growth of e-commerce business, retailers are leveraging more on online platforms, which increases the likelihood of customer scams. The increasing number of malware and phishing attacks try to invade the identity of customers and access their financials. Such challenges are expected to generate the demand for security solutions that can be used by the retail companies to protect the data and privacy of their customers. Social Media Security Market is driven by the growing number of internal security risks, including cyber terrorism, fraud, and money laundering that arise due to social media platforms. As the adoption of the social media solutions across the globe is increasing, the potential risk of the phishing attacks and the need to protect the confidential information also arises. This encourages organizations to take effective measures to mitigate the risk of cyber-attacks. Browse Full Reports: https://www.gminsights.com/industry-analysis/social-media-security-market About Global Market Insights Global Market Insights, Inc., headquartered in Delaware, U.S., is a global market research and consulting service provider; offering syndicated and custom research reports along with growth consulting services. Our business intelligence and industry research reports offer clients with penetrative insights and actionable market data specially designed and presented to aid strategic decision making. These exhaustive reports are designed via a proprietary research methodology and are available for key industries such as chemicals, advanced materials, technology, renewable energy and biotechnology. Northbrook, IL -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/09/2019 -- According to the new market research report "Unmanned Composites Market by Application (Interior, Exterior), Platform (UAV, USV, UGV, AUV, ROV, Passenger Drones, Autonomous Ships), Type (CFRP, GFRP, AFRP, BFRP), Subtype (Fiber, Matrix) and Region - Global Forecast to 2025", published by MarketsandMarkets, the Unmanned Composites Market is projected to grow from USD 1.1 billion in 2019 to USD 2.7 billion by 2025, at a CAGR of 15.52% from 2019 to 2025. Factors such as increased reliability and durability of composites and rise in demand composite materials to provide lightweight structures in unmanned systems are expected to fuel the growth of the unmanned composites market. Ask for PDF Brochure: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/pdfdownloadNew.asp?id=242948844 Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV) composites market is projected to grow at the highest CAGR during the forecast period Based on platform, the Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV) composite segment is expected to lead the unmanned composites market during the forecast period. This segment is projected to grow at the highest CAGR during the forecast period. AUV is a programmable autonomous robot utilized for underwater survey missions that include detecting and mapping submerged wrecks, rocks, and obstructions. Unmanned Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer (CFRP) composites market of the market to witness the highest growth rate during the forecast period Based on type, the unmanned Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer (CFRP) composites segment of the unmanned composites market is expected to grow at the highest CAGR during the forecast period. There is an increase in demand for lightweight and cost-effective unmanned system components from OEMs around the world. The carbon fiber is a combination of carbon atoms that are aligned parallel to the main axis of the filament, which provides durability to the structure and is convenient to use for all commercial applications. These factors are driving the growth of the CFRP segment. Europe expected to be the fastest-growing market for unmanned composites during the forecast period Europe is estimated to lead the unmanned composites market during the forecast period. The market growth in Europe is supported by an increase in deliveries of unmanned systems and a rise in demand for composite materials to provide a lightweight structure to unmanned systems. Also, the huge presence of composite manufacturers providing composites to the manufacturers of unmanned systems is driving the demand for unmanned composites in Europe. Browse in-depth TOC on "Unmanned Composites Market" 72 Tables 42 Figures 162 Pages Request Sample pages of the Report: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/requestsampleNew.asp?id=242948844 Some of the major players in the unmanned composites market include Gurit (Switzerland), Hexcel Corporation (US), Materion Corporation (US), Mitsubishi Rayon (Japan), Owens Corning (US), Renegade Materials Corporation (US), Solvay (Belgium), Stratasys (US), Teijin Limited (Japan), Teledyne (US), and Toray Industries (Japan). About MarketsandMarkets MarketsandMarkets provides quantified B2B research on 30,000 high growth niche opportunities/threats which will impact 70% to 80% of worldwide companies' revenues. Currently servicing 7500 customers worldwide including 80% of global Fortune 1000 companies as clients. Almost 75,000 top officers across eight industries worldwide approach MarketsandMarkets for their painpoints around revenues decisions. Our 850 fulltime analyst and SMEs at MarketsandMarkets are tracking global high growth markets following the "Growth Engagement Model GEM". The GEM aims at proactive collaboration with the clients to identify new opportunities, identify most important customers, write "Attack, avoid and defend" strategies, identify sources of incremental revenues for both the company and its competitors. MarketsandMarkets now coming up with 1,500 MicroQuadrants (Positioning top players across leaders, emerging companies, innovators, strategic players) annually in high growth emerging segments. MarketsandMarkets is determined to benefit more than 10,000 companies this year for their revenue planning and help them take their innovations/disruptions early to the market by providing them research ahead of the curve. MarketsandMarkets's flagship competitive intelligence and market research platform, "Knowledge Store" connects over 200,000 markets and entire value chains for deeper understanding of the unmet insights along with market sizing and forecasts of niche markets. Contact: Mr. Shelly Singh MarketsandMarkets INC. 630 Dundee Road Suite 430 Northbrook, IL 60062 USA: +1-888-600-6441 Email: sales@marketsandmarkets.com A team of researchers from the University of Michigan has found evidence of transitive inference a form of logical reasoning that involves using known relationships to infer unknown relationships (if A is greater than B, and B is greater than C, then A is greater than C) in two species of paper wasps: the European paper wasp (Polistes dominula) and the metricus paper wasp (Polistes metricus). The study, published in the journal Biology Letters, contributes to a growing body of evidence that the miniature nervous systems of insects do not limit sophisticated behaviors. In recent years, vertebrate animals including monkeys, birds and fish have demonstrated the ability to use transitive inference. The only published study that assessed transitive inference in invertebrates found that honeybees werent up to the task. One possible explanation for that result is that the small nervous system of honeybees imposes cognitive constraints that prevent those insects from conducting transitive inference. Paper wasps have a nervous system roughly the same size about one million neurons as honeybees, but they exhibit a type complex social behavior not seen in honeybee colonies. University of Michigans Professor Elizabeth Tibbetts and colleagues wondered if paper wasps social skills could enable them to succeed where honeybees had failed. To find out, they tested whether Polistes dominula and P. metricus wasps could solve a transitive inference problem. Were not saying that wasps used logical deduction to solve this problem, but they seem to use known relationships to make inferences about unknown relationships, Professor Tibbetts said. Our findings suggest that the capacity for complex behavior may be shaped by the social environment in which behaviors are beneficial, rather than being strictly limited by brain size. To test for transitive inference, the team first collected paper wasp queens from several locations around Ann Arbor, Michigan. In the lab, individual wasps were trained to discriminate between pairs of colors called premise pairs. One color in each pair was associated with a mild electric shock, and the other was not. Later, the wasps were presented with paired colors that were unfamiliar to them, and they had to choose between the colors. The wasps were able to organize information into an implicit hierarchy and used transitive inference to choose between novel pairs. I thought wasps might get confused, just like bees. But they had no trouble figuring out that a particular color was safe in some situations and not safe in other situations, Professor Tibbetts said. So, why do wasps and honeybees perform so differently on transitive inference tests? One possibility is that different types of cognitive abilities are favored in bees and wasps because they display different social behaviors. A honeybee colony has a single queen and multiple equally ranked female workers. In contrast, paper wasp colonies have several reproductive females known as foundresses. The foundresses compete with their rivals and form linear dominance hierarchies. A wasps rank in the hierarchy determines shares of reproduction, work and food. Transitive inference could allow wasps to rapidly make deductions about novel social relationships. That same skill set may enable female paper wasps to spontaneously organize information during transitive inference tests, the scientists said. _____ Elizabeth A. Tibbetts et al. 2019. Transitive inference in Polistes paper wasps. Biology Letters 15 (5); doi: 10.1098/rsbl.2019.0015 Chinese State Councilor and Minister of National Defense General Wei Fenghe (R) shakes hands with visiting Oppah Muchinguri (L), chairperson of Zimbabwe African National Union-Patriotic Front (ZANU-PF) and Zimbabwean Defense Minister in Beijing on May 8, 2019. (mod.gov.cn/Photo by Li Xiaowei) BEIJING, May 9 (ChinaMil) -- Chinese State Councilor and Minister of National Defense General Wei Fenghe met with visiting Oppah Muchinguri, chairperson of Zimbabwe African National Union-Patriotic Front (ZANU-PF) and Zimbabwean Defense Minister in Beijing on Wednesday. General Wei Fenghe said that since the establishment of China-Zimbabwe diplomatic relations, the bilateral ties have been developing in a healthy and stable manner. Chinese President Xi Jinping and President Emmerson Mnangagwa of Zimbabwe have jointly promoted China-Zimbabwe relations into a comprehensive strategic partnership, reached important consensus on co-building the Belt and Road, and painted a beautiful blueprint for their bilateral tie development in the future. In recent years, the exchanges between the two militaries have been even closer, and their pragmatic cooperation has achieved remarkable results in various fields. China is willing to work with Zimbabwe to implement the consensus reached by leaders of the two parties and the two countries, strengthen exchanges in all fields, deepen pragmatic cooperation, and continuously push forward the friendly cooperative relations between the two parties, the two countries and the two militaries. Ms. Muchinguri said that the ZANU-PF cherishes the friendship with the Communist Party of China (CPC), and appreciates the great achievements made by the CPC in leading Chinas national construction. At present, the relationship between China- and Zimbabwe has entered a new historical period with broad prospects. The Zimbabwean side thanks the Chinese for its long-term support and assistance, and is willing to deepen pragmatic cooperation with China in various fields and to push the relations between the two parties, the two countries, and the two militaries to a new high, she added. By Zhao Weibin Recently, the US Department of Defense (DoD) issued the 2019 Annual Report to Congress: Military and Security Developments Involving the Peoples Republic of China (also known as the report on Chinese military power). Like similar reports in previous years, this report makes a number of comments on Chinas national defense policies that distort the facts, deliberately misrepresent Chinas strategic intention, and vigorously spread the China threat theory. Considering that the US already clearly labels China as a strategic competitor in its National Security Strategy Report 2018, this report clearly showcases the US anxiety as well as its alertness and even hostility toward China. Compared with the previous US reports on Chinas military power, this years report is worthy of particular attention in the following four aspects: First, it declares that China has clear strategic goals and comprehensive approaches. Previous reports stressed that Chinas development prospects remain uncertain, but this years clarifies in the beginning that China will continue harnessing an array of economic, foreign policy, and security tools to realize a powerful and prosperous China that is equipped with a world-class military. It also incorporated Chinas diplomatic and economic policies and energy strategies into the scope of national security for the first time, implying China has global ambitions and trying to provide a clumsy pretext for the US whole-of-government strategy on China. Second, the report pays close attention to the institutional restructuring and combat capacity improvement of the Chinese military. The reports of last two years noticed the importance of Chinas national defense and military reforms, but deemed that such reforms would face grave challenges. This years report fully recognizes Chinas reform results and holds that restructuring military regions into theater commands can better shape a favorable situation and carry out modern high-intensity joint operations. It also elaborates various training and drills carried out by Chinese Peoples Liberation Army (PLA) in 2018, and particularly notes that China has built a professional blue force and those exercises and drills involved various levels, positions and skills. Third, the report has a specific chapter to smear the overall improvement of Chinas defense industry. It groundlessly criticizes that the Chinese government uses market access and international norms to force foreign IT firms to transfer technology and set up R&D laboratories in China, and ridiculously conjectures that China acquires foreign advanced technologies under the guise of civil use. Obviously, this years report continues the previous routine of conjecturing, smearing and sensationalizing the development of Chinas defense industry. Fourth, the report shows a meticulous attitude toward China-US military relation and lowers its expectations for future development of mutual military and security relations. Ever since introducing the content about China-US military exchanges in 2010, such reports always gave positive remarks on achievements in this regard. However, this years report shows that the US side only maintains a basic expectation for future development of bilateral military and security relations. It also pretentiously encourages China to act in ways consistent with the free and open international order. In fact, it is the United States that upholds unilateralism, destroys international order, and frequently makes troubles threatening regional security. The US acts like a thief crying stop thief, making it looks ridiculous. At Congress request, Pentagon produced this report on Chinese military power as a political tool to spread the so-called Chinese military threat both in the US and beyond. However, as it turns out, China is firmly committed to the path of peaceful development and upholds a national defense policy which is defensive in nature, as a constructor of world peace, a contributor of global development and a defender of international order in an unswerving way. Chinas development means the growth of the force in favor of world peace. With a more open and confident Chinese military and increased channels for the international community to understand the PLA, the space for the US to hype the so-called Chinese military threat will be further narrowed, and the creditability of such reports on Chinese military power will be daily losing. The Chinese side hopes the US will abandon its Cold War mentality and the outdated concept of zero-sum game, objectively and rationally view Chinas strategic intentions and national defense development, stop issuing such irresponsible reports year after year, and instead make contributions to improving military-to-military and state-to-state relations between China and the US, not the other way round. (The author is from the Chinese PLAs Academy of Military Sciences. The article was published on the PLA Daily on 9 May2019. It is translated from Chinese into English and edited by China Military Online.) The Pentagon said Wednesday that it has suspended a joint effort with North Korea to recover the remains of U.S. servicemen after Pyongyang stopped communicating in the wake of the failed Hanoi summit. The effort saw the remains of more than 50 U.S. servicemen killed in the 1950s Korean War handed over by North Korea last year in a sign of improved relations between Donald Trump and Kim Jong-un. But communications on the program halted after the two leaders failed to make progress in talks on North Korea's nuclear program in their February summit in Hanoi, according to Chuck Prichard, a spokesman for the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA). Courtesy John Castillo(HIGHLANDS RANCH, Colo.) -- A high school student who helped tackle an accused gunman at his Colorado high school this week said his feeling of "absolute and complete fear" evaporated as he watched his friend, Kendrick Castillo, charge forward without hesitation. Along with Castillo and one other student, Brendan Bialy, an 18-year-old student at the STEM School in Highlands Ranch, Colorado, was able to disarm one of the alleged shooters and pin him to the ground. 18-year-old Castillo was killed as he charged at the accused gunman and threw him up against the wall. "There was no questioning. There was no hesitation. There was no looking around," Bialy said of Castillo as he spoke to reporters at a news conference. "It's really hard to stop that kid when he gets going," Bialy said, likening Castillo to a human bowling ball as he rushed to overpower the suspect. "The gunman was against the wall and didn't know what the hell hit him." Bialy said he had known Castillo since their freshman year and said they had been close friends. He described Castillo as a "fantastic, wholesome person" who loved cars and electronics. Bialy was seated on the far side of his classroom on Tuesday afternoon when one of the two alleged shooters entered the room brandishing a pistol. He said his fight-or-fight response kicked in after seeing his friend stand up to the threat. Bialy was able to get the gun away from the suspect while the third student, who has not been identified, joined in to help and pinned the suspect to the ground, Bialy said. Bialy said the gun went off once or twice. After Castillo was shot, an IT teacher came into the room and began performing chest compressions on the 18-year-old. Castillo later died at a local hospital. Eight other students were injured in the shooting, including some in that same classroom, authorities said. The only injury Bialy received in the scuffle was scrapes on his knees. "I was blessed by something," he said. "Somebody's watching down on me. Something, somebody, I don't know. Even though I was inches away, I didn't get shot." Bialy described the gunmen as cowards. He said he knew both suspects, including one who was in his graduating class, but he only saw one of the suspects in his classroom. Other students who were in the same room were also shot and injured, he said. Both suspects appeared in court Wednesday afternoon. The adult suspect, 18-year-old Devon Erickson, has been charged with murder. The other suspect, a juvenile, as not been identified, and any charges against him are not yet known. When asked by a reporter on how he was "able to smile" despite having just experienced a tragedy, Bialy explained that it was because he got to see "the absolute best in people." "I got to see two heroes -- two regular high school kids, two really awesome people -- jump into action," he said. "I was more than lucky to join them." Bialy, who is a member of the U.S. Marines Corps' Delayed Entry Program, rebuffed any suggestion that he was a hero, but said he has received congratulatory messages from several fellow U.S. servicemen. "I need to let them know that Kendrick Castillo and that other student were in the thick of it, rolling in the ground, where I was too," he said. "Kendrick Castillio died a legend," Bialy said. "I know he will be with me for the rest of my life." Copyright 2019, ABC Radio. All rights reserved. The United States has imposed sanctions on Iran's metal sectors as tension escalates between the two countries. The White House made the announcement in a statement issued Wednesday, a year after the U.S. withdrew from the 2015 Iran nuclear deal. Iranian President Hassan Rouhani says his country will suspend its compliance with prohibitions on stockpiles of enriched uranium and heavy water that were imposed as part of the 2015 international agreement on its nuclear program. With the withdrawal of the United States from the agreement and its imposition of economic sanctions against Iran, Rouhani said Wednesday the remaining signatories have not lived up to their commitments, and instead have allowed the U.S. measures to affect the Iranian oil and banking sectors. He gave them 60 days to implement changes, and said Iran's next step would be to resume enriching uranium at higher levels. However, if the other countries work with Iran, Rouhani said his government will resume complying. Iran Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said on Twitter U.S. actions had made it impossible for Iran to continue the way it was, and that the other signatories have "a narrowing window to reverse this." U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said Iran's announcement to suspend compliance was "intentionally ambiguous," and the United States would not react until it is determined whether Iran follows through. "We'll have to wait to see what Iran's actions actually are," Pompeo said after meeting in London with British Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt. "They've made a number of statements on actions they intend to do in order to get the world to jump. We'll see what they actually do." What's new Highlights include a new hometown cruise ship for San Francisco. Ruby Princess will sail round-trip to Hawaii, Mexico and along the California coast. New 16-day Hawaiian Islands cruises will operate round-trip from Seattle aboard Emerald Princess and Ruby Princess. And Regal Princess makes its West Coast debut with a seven-day 'Pacific Wine Country' cruise visiting San Francisco, San Diego and Astoria, Oregon. 'Departures from the West Coast to iconic destinations such as Hawaii, Mexico and California continue to gain in popularity with cruisers,' Princess President Jan Swartz said. Sailings from September 2020 through May 2021 Royal Princess, which debuted on the West Coast this year, returns to the Port of Los Angeles for 25 cruises to the Mexican Riviera, including seven-day options to ports including Cabo San Lucas, Mazatlan and Puerto Vallarta. Five-day cruises to Cabo San Lucas are also available featuring an overnight stay. From San Francisco, Ruby Princess will offer three 10-day cruises to the Mexican Riviera with calls at Cabo San Lucas, Mazatlan, Manzanillo and Puerto Vallarta. In addition, Emerald Princess and Star Princess will sail five 10-day 'Baja Peninsula & Sea of Cortez' voyages, visiting Cabo San Lucas (overnight), La Paz, Loreto and Puerto Vallarta, round-trip Los Angeles. Four homeports will offer round-trip cruises to Hawaii, including Los Angeles, San Francisco, Seattle and Vancouver. Destinations include Maui, Oahu, Kauai and Hilo. New for this season are the pair of 16-day cruises from Seattle on Emerald Princess and Ruby Princess. Star Princess (round-trip Los Angeles), Ruby Princess (round-trip San Francisco) and Grand Princess (round-trip Vancouver) sail 15-day Hawaii cruises. Emerald Princess and Star Princess also operate a 28-day Hawaii and Tahiti cruise round-trip Los Angeles, featuring visits to Tahiti, Moorea, Bora Bora (overnight), Pago Pago and Samoa in addition to the Hawaiian Islands. California coast California coast sailings also leave from four homeports. Seven-day cruises from Los Angeles on Royal Princess and from San Francisco aboard Ruby Princess and Star Princess visit cities including Astoria, San Diego, Santa Barbara and Monterey. A Grand Princess 10-day option from Vancouver also stops at San Francisco and Los Angeles. Various seven-day 'Pacific Wine Country' cruises sailing between Los Angeles and Vancouver the beautiful the wine regions along the coast. Shorter, one-to five-day cruises also focus on scenic beauty. Food and wine excursions Princess has enhanced shore excursions in collaboration with Bill Esparza, noted James Beard Award-winning cookbook author and leading expert on Latin American cuisine. Passengers sailing the California coast can sample local cuisine, specifically focused on the Latin American influence in California. Esparza has developed exclusive culinary shore excursions in Santa Barbara, San Diego and Ensenada. In addition, Princess offers excursions to the California wine country, visiting local vineyards and winemakers throughout the region. Captains Circle savings and early booking deposit Past Princess customers are eligible for a special promotion when they book early with up to $100 per person off the public fare. This can be combined with launch and group promotions. These discounts do not apply to third or fourth berth guests. Additionally, a reduced deposit is available for Captain's Circle members when they book by Nov. 30, 2019. Odfjell has forecast chemical tanker supply growth of 2% and chemical tanker demand of 5% on average per year through 2021. The company has noted early signs of a positive effect from new and large export-oriented expansions from the US and Middle East coming on stream. Despite what is normally a seasonally weaker first quarter, the chemical tanker market continued to improve on the back of strong exports from the US and Middle East. There was also less supply pressure from swing tonnage during the quarter. This effect will accelerate further into the second half of 2019 and into 2020, as more than 20m tonnes of low cost organic liquid chemical capacity is coming on stream between 2019 and 2020, of which the majority is expected to be seaborne traded. The chemical tanker markets improved in the first quarter and we expect the trend to continue as a result of the strong fundamentals in our markets, and a firming tanker market in general, said Kristian Mrch, ceo of Odfjell. Read more: Chemical tanker market poised to improve: Stolt-Nielsen A deficit in Chinas domestic vegetable oil production is also encouraging more seaborne imports. According to the US Department of Agriculture, this will lead to palm oil and soybean imports increasing by 19% into China this year. Together with continued rebound of strong demand from India, Odfjell is expecting the vegoil market to remain strong and absorb a large share of chemical tanker supply. The shrinking deliveries of newbuild chemical tankers are helping to firm the market, with Odfjell forecasting eight core chemical tankers to be delivered in the second half of 2019, of which three to Odfjell, compared to 18 vessels delivered in the year-ago period. Metro Detroit overflows with so much top-rate cuisine these days that it can be difficult to choose which restaurant to visit, let alone which dish to order. So we decided to seek a little expert advice. We asked seven of Metro Detroit's top chefs to pick their favorite dish from a metro-area restaurant (other than their own, of course). The results range from some of the area's most buzzed-about destination restaurants to a little-known food truck, with cuisines running the gamut from Coney to casonsei (don't worry, we'll explain later). Enjoy the clear mutual appreciation society that exists among Metro Detroit chefs, and then get out and try some of their favorite eats. We'll see you there. James Rigato Mabel Gray, Hazel Park "I can't limit my answer to just one dish. We have better food options now than ever before. But when I have friends in town I show them a proper Coney at Lafayette, late-night burger at Grey Ghost, anything at the new Yum Village, and Loui's Pizza." James Rigato. Photo by Doug Coombe. Emmele Herrold Hazel, Ravines, and Downtown, Birmingham "De-boned chicken from Pita Cafe in Oak Park is my all-time favorite meal. It is my desert island meal, my birthday meal (you get it). It is perfectly tender, perfectly seasoned, and comes with the perfect rice and toum. I tend to order it with all dark meat, because dark meat is my favorite. I also tend to order it with another couple of dishes, but it stands up just fine on its own. It is even good cold the next day!" Emmele Herrold. Photo by Doug Coombe. Genevieve Vang Bangkok 96, Dearborn "This is a pasta dish from my favorite restaurant, Selden Standard, and is called sweet corn casonsei with lobster, chili, and basil. I love that place because I grew up in Paris. The foods they served (at Selden Standard) were very good and remind me of when I lived in France. They also serve seasonal, locally sourced, new American cuisine." Genevieve Vang. Photo by Doug Coombe. Reva Constantine Great Lakes Culinary Center, Southfield "If I had to pick a favorite it would be the ribs at Takoi. I love them because, first, theyre just delicious! Second, I love the complexity of the dish. The sweet fish sauce glaze thats on those smokey, crunchy ribs is amazing! I love the tart apple salad that tops the ribs! Its just a great dish that Ive had far too many times to count!" Reva Constantine. Photo by Doug Coombe. Lloyd Roberts Adachi, Birmingham "I love the sliders at Hunter House. Being just a block or two from Adachi makes it so convenient to grab a couple sliders when we're busy and hungry. Just like all great dishes, they're consistent and fresh-tasting and I know they're using quality ingredients. As a new member of the Birmingham community I see why everyone has a lifetime love affair with Hunter House." Lloyd Roberts. Photo by Doug Coombe. Justin Tootla Voyager, Ferndale "Larb from Bangkok 96 street food. Its not on the menu anymore but if Genevieve is working shell make it for you if you ask nicely. This version is from northern Thailand, and is a sour, spicy, salty salad thats served cold with lettuce to eat as a wrap. Its a dish that can be challenging to Western tastes, which is maybe why she took it off the menu, but it is absolutely delicious. Ask for extra spicy." Jennifer Jackson Voyager, Ferndale "A favorite meal in Detroit is Takoi. We have a standing order there of their Naem Khao Tod and Laap Gai. We like those two dishes so much we sort of combined the two to make our 'wedge' salad at Voyager. We make soured shrimp and a sauce with the traditional ingredients used in those dishes. We top it with crisp Carolina Gold rice, garlic, Thai basil, and mint. Another favorite, and likely not brought up often is El Rodeo on Vernor Hwy. in Southwest Detroit. They've been there since 1983. The service is always great. We always order way too much. The standout is their homemade tortillas. They are so thick and amazing. More people should know about this place!" Justin Tootla & Jennifer Jackson. Photo by Doug Coombe. Patrick Dunn is the managing editor of Concentrate and a regular contributor to Metromode A Michigan cybersecurity collaboration recognized a gap in the industry's education and training, and has been recognized this week for its pro-active approach to fixing it. The Michigan Automotive and Defense Cyber Awareness Team (MADCAT) received an achievement award from the National Association of Counties (NACo) for its work as an innovative and effective county government initiative that strengthen services for residents.MADCAT supports partners in the defense and automotive industry by enhancing cybersecurity efforts in Macomb County and connecting solution providers to critical challenges. The organization partners with companies such as Sterling Heights General Dynamics Land Systems and facilities such as the Velocity Hub of the Michigan Cyber Range to develop and retain a talented cybersecurity workforce.MADCAT was developed to address the growing threat of cybersecurity breaches to the regions primary industries and aims to create a sustainable model by attracting new cybersecurity businesses and raising awareness.In 2014, the state of cyber looked very different than it does today in Michigan, says Janelle Arbuckle-Michael from Macombs Department of Planning and Economic Development. There werent cyber related programs in universities and K-12 educational institutions, yet there was a definite need within the automotive and defense industries.Today, 39 institutions in the county offer programs, degrees or training related to cybersecurity. In total, students can choose among more than 90 degree programs and 80 certification programs in the southeast Michigan region."MADCAT identified a pressing need for our future workforce to be prepared to meet a forecasted 116 percent increase in job openings in cybersecurity and took action," says Vicky Rad, director for the Macomb Department of Planning and Economic Development. "As a direct result, 10 Macomb County school districts are offering coursework in cybersecurity at levels K-12. This is a win for students who pursue careers in this well-paying field and for the businesses that drive our economy."One initiative the group is particularly proud of is the fostering of a partnership between training facility Pinckney Cyber Hub and Anchor Bay High School. This will provide a virtual classroom for high school students who want to earn Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) certification.Students from Anchor Bay High School will now be able to take cyber courses virtually that can result in future certifications, says Arbuckle-Michael. Without the support and partners within MADCAT, many of these discussions wouldnt take place.NACo also announced Macomb County as a recipient of four other 2019 Achievement Awards this week. The Macomb County IT Department was awarded for its School Emergency Response Services, the countys health department was recognized for its Move More Macomb program and its Response to the Hepatitis A Outbreak program while the Department of Planning and Economic Development was also awarded for its Macomb County Public Art Map.Im thrilled to have Macomb County once again recognized by the National Association of Counties, says Macomb County Executive Mark A. Hackel. Our departments and county employees are committed to serving our communities and ensuring that Macomb is a great place to live, work and play. These awards are proof that theyre doing a great job and that their programs and initiatives are having a major impact. Ruth Decker and her flowers after she participated in the Borgess Run For The Health Of It The race that represented Ruth Deckers life turned into a jog that encouraged her to set a slower and more deliberate pace.Decker was one of more than 6,500 runners in the Borgess Run For The Health Of It on Sunday, May 5. Unlike many of those running, she wasnt trying to be first. She simply wanted to finish a journey she began in January when she signed up for Run Camp, offered as part of the training for the Borgess Run.Those who knew Decker during her earlier years may not have believed that she could train for and pull off a 5K run.I dont blame anyone for the choices I made, Decker says. I chose to keep smoking pot and not do what I was supposed to do. When you lose your house, get a divorce and lose your jobI must not have dealt with it well.Now 54, Decker says she started smoking pot when she was 21 stopping only when she was pregnant with her daughters, who are now 23 and 21. At the time she had a house and a job and was self-sufficient. She categorized her pot use as recreational.Then she met and married a man, who was not her daughters father, at age 45 and says thats when her life began its slow and painful out-of-control spiral.When I met him, I was getting to the point where I was starting to dig myself into a hole, Decker says. For her, she found that marijuana is a depressant and it makes you not want to do anything more.The couple intentionally selected 4/20 at 4:20 p.m. to get married in a nod to their allegiance to marijuana. The marriage dissolved after three years and Decker lost the home she shared with him and her daughters because she couldnt afford the mortgage payments.What followed was a series of short-term stays with her sister and later a nephew as her daughters began spending more time with their father. That was good because they didnt have a room or anything where I was staying, Decker says.While living with her sister in 2012 Decker lost her job as a Players Club representative with FireKeepers Casino Hotel after failing a drug test. I was a pothead and I wasnt trying to hide that from anybody, she says. I was smoking it morning through night.Knowing that she would need to find another job, Decker sought help through a local addiction treatment program to get clean. She had every intention of successfully beating her addiction until she re-connected with an old friend who she describes as her soulmate in 2103. He introduced her to crack and she stayed with him in a subsidized apartment in the Washington Heights neighborhood.She used money from her income tax refund to keep herself supplied with crack, which she smoked. When the apartment complex management found out that she was staying with her friend, she was asked to leave because she wasnt supposed to be there.Decker then landed at a womens shelter operated by Haven of Rest Ministries where she stayed off and on until 2015. During this period of time, her car was repossessed, which presented challenges with finding a job.Ultimately, Decker found a job in Paw Paw where she made in-home visits to patients who were under the care of a physicians group. Her sister leant her a car so she could get herself to and from that job. One year later, in 2017, she took a job as an Immunization Coordinator with the Family Health Center in Kalamazoo.That job would be a salvation of sorts for her as she replaced an addiction to drugs with an "addiction" to candy and took advantage of opportunities to get healthy while also moving into a home in Battle Creek and strengthening her relationship with her daughters.They have these wellness programs and I signed up for one in the fall with the Turkey Trot 5K. I ended up not doing it, Decker says. When I signed up for Run Camp (the Family Health Center) helped pay for my registration, but we had to show up for 10 out of the 13 weeks. I showed up but didnt do a lot of the stuff we were supposed to do in between.She did, however, start eating healthier and drew inspiration from other Run Camp participants, including a short, older woman with white hair and a gentleman in her Run Camp team who had undergone a heart transplant. The support she received throughout her Run Camp experience showed her that she was not alone.I just wanted to be healthier and they inspired me, Decker says. I needed to be me again and I needed my girls. The attorney for a top executive of Chinese tech giant Huawei says he will ask the court to stop the case against her because of comments from U.S. President Donald Trump. Huawei Chief Financial Officer Meng Wanzhou is under house arrest in Canada awaiting possible extradition to the United States, where she is wanted on fraud charges. Meng and her attorney, Scott Fenton, appeared in a Vancouver courtroom Wednesday. Fenton said previous comments by Trump that he would intervene in Meng's case if it would help U.S.-China trade negotiations showed the case against her might be politically motivated. Fenton called Trump's comments "intimidating and corrosive of the rule of law." Press Release May 9, 2019 ANGARA: TEACHERS DESERVE HIGHER MINIMUM PAY Reelectionist Senator Sonny Angara said the government should set a higher minimum pay for teachers if it wants to recruit and retain highly effective educators who will prepare Filipino students for the challenges of the future. "If we value education and we intend to create a more educated generation of Filipinos, then we need to pay teachers a professional, livable and respectable salary," said the lawmaker from Aurora, who is running under the platform "Alagang Angara." According to Angara, attracting and retaining excellent educators is one of the most important drivers of a well-functioning public education system--a system that must prepare diverse students with complex needs to participate in today's knowledge-driven economy. "Teachers are the foundation for our future," Angara pointed out. "They guarantee a society of continued innovation by educating the children who will lead the nation." However, the lawmaker said public school teachers remain among the most underpaid workers, given their workload and role in the society. To illustrate this, Angara, who once taught in a law school, said that a one-hour class requires three hours of preparation. On top of this, teachers also spend a lot of time learning new content standards, monitoring the progress of their students and planning interventions if necessary. "Often teachers have to buy their own school supplies and learning materials," he stressed. At present, entry-level public school teachers (Teacher 1), which is equivalent to Salary Grade 11 under Tranche 4 of the Salary Standardization Law (SSL), earn a monthly salary of P20,754. They are, however, exempt from paying personal income tax, in accordance with the provision of a legislation that Angara pushed to increase the take-home pay of workers earning less than P250,000 per year. Salary Grade 11, according to Angara, is not attractive enough to entice qualified and competent educators to teach in public schools. As early as 2016, Angara has been pushing for the passage of his Senate Bill 135 that seeks to upgrade the minimum pay of teachers to Salary Grade 19, which under the SSL is equivalent to P45,269. "Despite the fact that they are heralded as molders of our children's future and second parents to our kids, public school teachers receive a basic salary that does not equate to their contribution," Angara said. He added: "Our teachers are considered to be the heart of the educational system. Hence, the government needs to give priority to their welfare and interests." The Harvard-educated lawmaker said a higher pay would "greatly help in motivating our teachers to strive for excellence their field and thus, improve the quality of education in the public school system." A known advocate of educational reforms, Angara is one of the authors of Republic Act 10931 or the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act which guarantees free tuition and other miscellaneous fees in state universities and colleges. He is also the author of the Universal Kindergarten Education Act of 2012, when he was a member of House of Representatives, representing the lone district of Aurora province. Angara inherited his advocacy on education from his father, the late Senate President Edgardo Angara, who authored the Free High School Act that ensured secondary education even for the poorest. Just like his father, the senator strongly believes that education is the great socioeconomic equalizer and a stepping stone to a better life. Press Release May 9, 2019 De Lima excited to vote, releases #Kodigoko for May 13 polls Opposition Senator Leila M. de Lima has revealed her personal choices for senators in the upcoming May 13 midterm elections as she released her #Kodigoko bearing the names of the eight-man Senate slate of united opposition Otso Diretso. De Lima, a human rights and social justice champion, also said she feels excited to cast her votes in next week's elections even as she thanked the courts handling her trumped-up drug cases for respecting her constitutionally-guaranteed right to suffrage. "I'm excited to cast my vote on May 13 and am looking forward to vote for honest and courageous candidates who, without any doubt, would keep the independence of the Senate and would resist to the President's flawed policies," she said. "Even while in detention, I have watched how these eight honorable indviduals carried themselves with dignity and hurdled the challenges and rigors of the campaign. I was impressed before, as I am now, and they surely get my vote of confidence," she added. Last April 30, the Muntinlupa City Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 205 has granted De Lima's urgent motion for furlough allowing her to vote under the Commission on Elections' "Escorted Detainee Voting System" on May 13. De Lima will go to and cast her vote at the Polling Precinct No. 0648A in the Santa Rita School, Paranaque City. However, she was ordered "to refrain from giving interviews before and after casting her vote" scheduled between 12 noon until 2pm. In her Kodigo sa Balota, the former justice secretary names Rep. Gary Alejano (#5), Sen. Bam Aquino (#9), human rights lawyer Chel Diokno (#25), civic leader Sam Gutoc (#36), former solicitor general Florin Hilbay (#37), election lawyer Romy Macalintal (#41), former senator Mar Roxas (#57), and ex-Rep. Erin Tanada (#59). "Ito ang boto ko para sa marangal, makatao at maka-Diyos na lipunan. Sila ang kumakatawan ng tunay na magtatanggol sa bayan at kahit kailanman ay hindi nabahiran ng anumang anomalya, lalo ng pagnanakaw sa taumbayan," she said. De Lima, the first prominent political prisoner under the Duterte regime, has also enlisted the support of the Filipino electorate to vote straight for senatorial candidates of the united opposition Otso Diretso. "I'm vouching for the integrity and competence of Otso Diretso candidates and I have no doubt that with their remarkable track record and competence, they will be our strong voices and our reliable defenders in the Senate," she said. It may be recalled that in an open court last April 12, Judge Amelia Fabros Corpuz of Branch 256 has also granted De Lima's petition for furlough to vote under "escorted detainee voting system" on May 13 midterm elections. A written Order was released recently. Of the three trumped-up illegal drug trade charges filed against De Lima, two are being handled by Branch 205 while one is in Branch 256. Villar thanks bishops' support for reelection bid Re-electionist Senator Cynthia Villar has expressed gratitude for the support of a group of bishops as she seeks a second term in the Senate. During a press conference held at Club Filipino in San Juan City on Wednesday, the Independent Bishops Conference of the Philippines (IBCP), declared its support for Villar and 11 other senatorial candidates at Club Filipino in San Juan City. "This is indeed a big boost to my candidacy. I thank the bishops and their flock for their support. The endorsement further inspires me to devote my life in helping our poor brothers and sisters through legislations, advocacies, projects and programs," Villar said. The Nacionalista Party Senator also stressed the importance of serving the people regardless of religious beliefs and denomination. In a statement released to media, IBCP, which is composed of 187 bishops of various Christian groups nationwide, said it boldly supports President Rodrigo Roa Duterte's leadership and will corporately work with him by endorsing 12 senators to their flock and to the public. The 12 senators were selected by the bishops according to the following standards: 1. They will work closely for our country through leadership and vision of President Duterte; 2. Their track records prove their capacity to work closely for the transformation of our country; 3. Their attitude speaks so much of their individuality, enough for us to judge them; and 4. We select some for the check and balance of our country's interests. Aside from Villar, IBCP also endorsed fellow Hugpong ng Pagbabago candidates Bong Go, Imee Marcos, Bato dela Rosa, JV Ejercito, Bong Revilla, Nancy Binay, Pia Cayetano, Koko Pimentel and Francis Tolentino. The New Zealand dollar rose against the Australian dollar after US President Donald Trump accused China of breaking the trade deal the two countries are still negotiating. Trump is threatening to raise tariffs on Chinese imports on Friday. The kiwi was trading at 94.25 Australian cents at 5pm in Wellington from 94.02 at 7.45am. It was trading 65.72 US cents from 65.73, while the trade-weighted index was at 71.98 points from 71.87. The Australian dollar has moved down more against the US dollar, says Imre Speizer, market strategist at Westpac. Thats largely because its mining exports, such as coal and iron ore, are more exposed to international price fluctuations than New Zealands predominantly agricultural products, Speizer says. President Trump told a rally of supporters in Florida that China had broken an agreement. By the way, you see the tariffs were doing? Because they broke the deal. They broke the deal, Trump told the crowd. So theyre flying in, the vice premier tomorrow is flying in good man but they broke the deal. They cant do that, so theyll be paying. Trump, who appears not to understand that US consumers are hurt by tariffs on Chinese goods, added that the US wont back down until China stops cheating our workers and stealing our jobs. Chinas Vice-Premier Lui He is expected in Washington and, until Trump started threatening over the weekend to raise tariffs, financial markets had thought the two nations had been close to signing a trade agreement. Chinas government has issued a statement promising necessary countermeasures if Trump imposes more tariffs. Escalating the trade conflict is not in the interest of the people in both countries and the world, the Commerce Ministry said in a statement. China deeply regrets the move. The domestic currency was trading at 50.50 British pence from 50.53. It was unchanged at 58.70 euro cents, at 72.25 Japanese yen from 72.35, and at 4.4737 Chinese yuan from 4.4577. The New Zealand two-year swap rate rose to 1.6005 percent from 1.5793 yesterday while the 10-year swap rate fell to 2.1300 percent from 2.1550. (BusinessDesk) Comments from our readers No comments yet Add your comment: Your name: Your email: Not displayed to the public Comment: Comments to Sharechat go through an approval process. Comments which are defamatory, abusive or in some way deemed inappropriate will not be approved. It is allowable to use some form of non-de-plume for your name, however we recommend real email addresses are used. Comments from free email addresses such as Gmail, Yahoo, Hotmail, etc may not be approved. Anti-spam verification: Type the text you see in the image into the field below. You are asked to do this in order to verify that this enquiry is not being performed by an automated process. Related News: 24th December 2021 Morning Report Goodman Property Trust (NZX: GMT) GMT to develop North Shore facility for NZ Post 23rd December 2021 Morning Report SkyCity Entertainment Group Limited (NZX: SKC) EXPANDS STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP WITH GIG Spark New Zealand Limited (NZX: SPK) Spark to take full ownership of Connect 8 22nd December 2021 Morning Report Precinct Properties New Zealand Limited (NZX: PCT) Wynyard Quarter Stage 3 Commenced AMP Limited (NZX: AMP) Announces Delisting from the NZX Main Board 21st December 2021 Morning Report Greenfern Industries Limited (NZX: GFI) Updates on NTA The New Zealand dollar firmed on improved prospects for a deal out of US-China trade talks this week. The kiwi was trading at 65.91 US cents at 8am in Wellington from 65.72 US cents yesterday. The trade-weighted index was at 72.15 points from 71.98. Markets were weighed by escalating trade tensions overnight but sentiment got a lift when President Donald Trump reiterated a deal is still possible this week, even as he plans to raise tariffs on US$200 billion of Chinese goods within hours to 25 percent from 10 percent. Trump said he had received a "beautiful" letter from his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping and may speak to him by phone. The two sides are still meeting in Washington with talks to wrap up Friday in the US. "Unsurprisingly, markets were focused on the US-China trade talks with expectations low that there will be any resolution to the impasse this week, until last minute comments from President Trump that a deal could still be reached," said ANZ Bank economist Michael Callaghan. With little domestic data, the focus will remain offshore for direction. Callaghan said the kiwi has support around 65.60 US cents and faces resistance at 66.70. The Reserve Bank of Australia's statement on monetary policy will be watched as it may shed some light on why they decided to hold rates at 1.50 percent at this week's meeting. The RBA's decision contrasted with that of the Reserve Bank of New Zealand, which opted to cut rates by 25 basis points to 1.50 percent, adding to pressure on the kiwi. The domestic currency was trading at 94.26 Australian cents from 94.25. It was at 50.64 British pence from 50.50. It was at 58.73 from 58.70 euro cents, at 72.30 Japanese yen from 72.25, and at 4.4981 Chinese yuan from 4.4737. (BusinessDesk) Comments from our readers No comments yet Add your comment: Your name: Your email: Not displayed to the public Comment: Comments to Sharechat go through an approval process. Comments which are defamatory, abusive or in some way deemed inappropriate will not be approved. It is allowable to use some form of non-de-plume for your name, however we recommend real email addresses are used. 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Related News: 24th December 2021 Morning Report Goodman Property Trust (NZX: GMT) GMT to develop North Shore facility for NZ Post 23rd December 2021 Morning Report SkyCity Entertainment Group Limited (NZX: SKC) EXPANDS STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP WITH GIG Spark New Zealand Limited (NZX: SPK) Spark to take full ownership of Connect 8 22nd December 2021 Morning Report Precinct Properties New Zealand Limited (NZX: PCT) Wynyard Quarter Stage 3 Commenced AMP Limited (NZX: AMP) Announces Delisting from the NZX Main Board 21st December 2021 Morning Report Greenfern Industries Limited (NZX: GFI) Updates on NTA Tilt Renewables says it expects to execute an off-take agreement for the 130-megawatt wind farm it plans at Waverley within weeks. The Melbourne-based developer has been in talks with Genesis Energy on the southern Taranaki project since October. Today Tilt said the investment grade off-take contract and the pricing certainty provided will underpin a debt package for the project. Credible contractors have been shortlisted for the project and an investment decision is expected in the December quarter. With Waverley wind farm project progressing towards an investment decision in CY2019 and other near-term opportunities currently in the market, the Tilt Renewables board has determined it is in the best interests of all shareholders not to pay a final dividend and to retain the cash within the business for anticipated project equity requirements. Tilt shares last traded at $2.36 and are up about 4 percent so far this year. The company, majority-owned by Infratil and Mercury NZ, has a pipeline of wind and solar development projects across Australia and New Zealand. It commissioned the 54 MW Salt Creek wind farm in Victoria last year and in late 2020 raised A$260 million from shareholders for the 336 MW Dundonnell project it is aiming to commission in Victoria. Chief executive Deion Campbell says the company had hoped to have concluded its deal with Genesis by now. But he said both firms are looking for a relationship beyond Waverley and are keen to get an agreement that reduces disputation risk as much as possible. Its 20-year term also makes it one of the largest power purchase agreements in New Zealand. On the dividend, Campbell told investors that the firm is a development company and will need to manage paying dividends against its calls on shareholders for capital. Given the scale of the raising undertaken last year for Dundonnell, holding back the first-half dividend didnt really make much difference, he said. With Waverley progressing, and other potential opportunities, the board wanted to retain that equity. You shouldnt assume there is a dividend every time, Campbell said. Tilt, split out of Trustpower in 2016, earlier today reported a net profit of A$12.2 million for the year ended March 31, down 28 percent from the year before, due to higher depreciation costs since the completion of Salt Creek and the effect of changes in financial instruments. Excluding the latter, underlying net profit was A$14.2 million, against an $A9.3 million loss the year before. Revenue increased by 22 percent to A$193.3 million, reflecting higher prices and increased production. The company has five wind farms in Australia and operates the Tararua and Mahinerangi projects here. It generated 2,054 GWh of electricity in the period, 14 percent more than a year earlier and slightly ahead of long-term projections. Output was boosted by the completion of Salt Creek in July and a return to more normal wind conditions throughout the year. Earnings before interest, tax, depreciation, amortisation and changes in financial instruments climbed 30 percent to A$134.8 million, in line with previous guidance. It has signalled ebitdaf of A$122-129 million in the current year, given the business is not expected to materially benefit from any contribution from Dundonnell until the 2021 financial year. The forecast assumes long-term average wind conditions. Tilt has built out a pipeline of almost 3,440 MW of solar, wind and battery projects to take advantage of the swing towards renewables in Australia and New Zealand. Campbell said the firm needs a range of consented projects that are ready to execute and fundable as soon as the market signals a need. Tilts strategy is to rack em and stack em and build them when we can, he said on a conference call, and will need to spend about A$7 million a year to maintain a baseline of development activity. In New Zealand, Tilt has consent for a 240 MW wind development at Kaiwera Downs near Gore and a 160 MW expansion of its Mahinerangi wind farm west of Dunedin. It is also in the very early stages of investigating a 70 MW wind project at Omamari in Northland. The site, owned by Landcorp, was previously investigated by Meridian Energy. Tilt is also thinking about options for repowering the 20-year-old first stage of its Tararua wind farm near Palmerston North. In March, Mercury announced it was proceeding with a $256 million, 119 MW wind development at Turitea, south of Tararua. Work there is due to start in August. Campbell said having a major shareholder developing its own wind farm doesnt really affect Tilt. Each firm has its own development pipeline and Mercury had been sitting on the Turitea option for some time. Output from Tilts current New Zealand wind farms is contracted to Trustpower for the operating life of the turbines. Trustpower was offered the chance to take-up the output from Waverley but felt it had sufficient wind exposure, Campbell said. Tilt has started thinking about what to do with the first stage of Tararua, commissioned in 1998. While the turbines have a design life to 20 years, they are still available 95 percent of the time and he thought 25 years was probably the right number for that earlier generation of machine. New turbines are expected to operate for 30 years. Campbell said Tararua remains one of the best wind sites in the world and could deliver a material boost if it can be repowered. That output could be offered to the market generally and Trustpower doesnt have any pre-emptive rights, he said. (BusinessDesk) Comments from our readers No comments yet Add your comment: Your name: Your email: Not displayed to the public Comment: Comments to Sharechat go through an approval process. Comments which are defamatory, abusive or in some way deemed inappropriate will not be approved. 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Related News: 24th December 2021 Morning Report Goodman Property Trust (NZX: GMT) GMT to develop North Shore facility for NZ Post 23rd December 2021 Morning Report SkyCity Entertainment Group Limited (NZX: SKC) EXPANDS STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP WITH GIG Spark New Zealand Limited (NZX: SPK) Spark to take full ownership of Connect 8 22nd December 2021 Morning Report Precinct Properties New Zealand Limited (NZX: PCT) Wynyard Quarter Stage 3 Commenced AMP Limited (NZX: AMP) Announces Delisting from the NZX Main Board 21st December 2021 Morning Report Greenfern Industries Limited (NZX: GFI) Updates on NTA New Zealand shares rose for a third day as the Reserve Bank's rate cut provides another tailwind to the stock market. Vista Group International hit a record. The S&P/NZX 50 Index rose 41.3 points, or 0.4 percent, to 10,104.35. Within the index, 24 stocks gained, 15 fell and 11 were unchanged. Turnover was $202.8 million. The local market outperformed the rest of the Asia-Pacific region, with Australia's S&P/ASX 200 Index and Thailand's SET Index the only other bourses in positive territory today. The central bank's cut to the official cash rate yesterday spurred investors to buy stocks, where they can achieve higher returns than fixed income assets. "Yesterday we saw an intra-day swing in the market after a poor start and that's continued into today," said Grant Davies, an investment advisor at Hamilton Hindin Greene. "We've got funds falling off the bond maturities coming up, KiwiSaver balances that keep going up, so the rate cut is just another tailwind out there for the market." The rate cut pushed the kiwi dollar below 66 US cents for the first time since October, boosting the value of local firms' export receipts. Vista, which derives most of its revenue overseas, led the market higher, up 5.2 percent at $5.50 on a volume of 2.4 million shares, more than eight-times its 90-day average. Pushpay Holdings was the most traded stock on a volume of 5.7 million shares, more than 10 times its 398,000 average. The shares rose 1.6 percent to $3.77, recovering some of yesterday's decline when it reported an annual profit and said its founder Chris Heaslip was stepping down as chief executive. Auckland International Airport rose 3.1 percent to $8.25 on a volume of 4.3 million shares, almost four-times normal. Fisher & Paykel Healthcare increased 2.4 percent to $15.99 on 1.1 million shares, almost twice its usual volume, and Tourism Holdings advanced 2.3 percent to $4.04 on a smaller volume than usual of 93,000. Spark rose 0.6 percent to $3.645 on a volume of 4.7 million shares, while Kiwi Property Group was unchanged at $1.535 on a volume of 2.9 million shares. Meridian Energy increased 0.8 percent to $4.28 on a volume of 2.3 million shares. Of other companies trading on volumes of more than a million shares, Contact Energy rose 1.3 percent to $7.23, Mercury NZ increased 0.3 percent to $3.94, and Goodman Property Trust decreased 0.3 percent to $1.73. Fletcher Building posted the biggest decline, down 4 percent at $5.06 on a volume of 1.1 million shares, in line with its 90-day average. A2 Milk Co slipped 1.5 percent to $16.07 with 475,000 shares changing hands, less than its 801,000 average. Outside the benchmark index, PGG Wrightson fell 3.6 percent to 54 cents after announcing plans to return $235 million, or 31 cents per share, to investors in a buyback after selling its seeds division. Chief executive Ian Glasson announced his departure at the end of the month, and the company warned annual earnings from the remaining businesses will be at the lower end of guidance. Davies said the profit warning weighed on the stock, and investors will be interested to see how the slimmed down business operates. Tilt Renewables, which is controlled by Infratil and Mercury, declined 0.4 percent to $2.35 after annual profit was in line with expectations. The board decided to retain earnings for future projects rather than pay a dividend this half. Infratil rose 1.1 percent to $4.60. Chorus's 2028 bonds paying 4.35 percent annual interest were the most traded debt security with 1.9 million notes changing hands. The yield was down 1 basis point at 3.54 percent. Chorus shares rose 1.5 percent to $6.23. Meridian's 2023 bonds paying 4.53 percent, traded at a yield of 2.68 percent, down 9 basis points on a volume of 1.1 million notes. That's the lowest yield since it listed in March 2016. (BusinessDesk) Comments from our readers No comments yet Add your comment: Your name: Your email: Not displayed to the public Comment: Comments to Sharechat go through an approval process. Comments which are defamatory, abusive or in some way deemed inappropriate will not be approved. 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Related News: 24th December 2021 Morning Report Goodman Property Trust (NZX: GMT) GMT to develop North Shore facility for NZ Post 23rd December 2021 Morning Report SkyCity Entertainment Group Limited (NZX: SKC) EXPANDS STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP WITH GIG Spark New Zealand Limited (NZX: SPK) Spark to take full ownership of Connect 8 22nd December 2021 Morning Report Precinct Properties New Zealand Limited (NZX: PCT) Wynyard Quarter Stage 3 Commenced AMP Limited (NZX: AMP) Announces Delisting from the NZX Main Board 21st December 2021 Morning Report Greenfern Industries Limited (NZX: GFI) Updates on NTA New Zealand shares staged a late rally as the Reserve Bank's cut to the official cash rate boosted the attraction of companies paying reliable dividends such as Contact Energy and Mercury NZ. The S&P/NZX 50 Index increased 35.66 points, or 0.4 percent, to 10,063.05. Within the index, 30 stocks rose, 14 fell and six were unchanged. Turnover was $153.2 million. The benchmark index had been in the red through much of the session, as Asian equity markets followed dour trading in New York amid heightened fears about US-China trade relations. However, the Reserve Bank's decision to cut the OCR to a record low 1.5 percent, making dividend yields more attractive than fixed-interest returns and lowering finance costs for corporates, spurred a rally in late trading. Companies paying reliable dividends were among those most in vogue. Contact was up 3.8 percent at $7.14 on a volume of 1.3 million shares, while Mercury NZ rose 2.6 percent to $3.93 on 712,000 shares. "The RBNZ cut rates, which was a bit of a surprise in choosing not to follow the lead of the Federal Reserve and RBA," said Greg Smith, head of research at Fat Prophets. Smith said the impact of the rate cut on the economy will depend on where the central bank settles on imposing tougher capital requirements on banks. "Even if you ease on rates, if you start tightening up on lending you won't have a meaningful impact on the economy." Skellerup Holdings led the market higher, up 5.3 percent at $2.38, on a volume of 158,000 shares. Its 90-day average is 203,000. The rubber goods maker's industrial unit has been expanding its international business and is a beneficiary of a weaker currency. The RBNZ's rate cut immediately knocked the kiwi dollar down more than half a US cent. It was recently at 65.87 US cents. Among other exporters to gain today, Scales Corp rose 1.8 percent to $5.07, Vista Group International was up 1.6 percent at $5.23 on a volume of 1.2 million shares, and Mainfreight rose 0.7 percent to $35.50. Spark New Zealand was the most traded stock on a volume of 3.6 million shares, down from its three-month average of 5.7 million. It increased by 0.3 percent to $3.625. Auckland International Airport was unchanged at $8 on a volume of 3.2 million shares, almost three times its usual volume. Among other companies trading on volumes of more than a million shares, Kiwi Property Group was unchanged at $1.535, Air New Zealand fell 0.2 percent to $2.735, and Precinct Properties New Zealand declined 0.3 percent to $1.595. Pushpay Holdings posted the biggest decline on the day, down 2.9 percent at $3.71 on a volume of 2.9 million shares - about eight times its 90-day average. The mobile payments system provider today reported an annual profit and was cashflow positive. However, chief executive and founder Chris Heaslip announced he was stepping back from the management team, while retaining his directorship. Chair Bruce Gordon will take over the CEO role. Smith said Pushpay's result was reasonably good, meeting expectations, but that Heaslip's exit was a surprise. "Although Gordon has experience and is a safe pair of hands, there's a bit of trepidation when a founder steps away," he said. Synlait Milk fell 1.5 percent to $10.50 on a typically small volume of 29,000 shares. The milk processor said the government's new methane targets were in line with the company's own sustainability targets. A2 Milk, which counts Synlait as a supplier, fell 0.7 percent to $16.32 on a volume of 688,000 shares, below its 819,000 average. The Carbon Fund, which invests in carbon commodities, last traded at $1.01. Dairy prices rose for an 11th auction at the Global Dairy Trade event overnight, although whole milk powder prices were down 0.5 percent. Fonterra Shareholders' Fund units rose 0.5 percent to $4.27, while Fonterra Cooperative Group's shares, which are restricted to farmer suppliers, fell 0.2 percent to $4.27. Outside the benchmark index, Evolve Education shares were halted at 23 cents for a $63.5 million capital raising. The company is selling shares at 8 cents apiece in a fully underwritten 4.4-for-1 entitlement offer, largely to repay $30 million owed to ASB Bank. The balance will fund a foray into Australia. The most-traded debt security was Kiwibank's Kiwi Capital Funding capital notes, which pay 6.61 percent annual interest. Some 1.5 million notes traded at a yield of 3.58 percent, down 42 basis points. Some 1.2 million of Chorus's 2023 bonds, paying 4.35 percent, changed hands today, closing at a yield of 3.55 percent, down 2 basis points. Chorus shares fell 1 percent to $6.14. (BusinessDesk) Comments from our readers No comments yet Add your comment: Your name: Your email: Not displayed to the public Comment: Comments to Sharechat go through an approval process. Comments which are defamatory, abusive or in some way deemed inappropriate will not be approved. It is allowable to use some form of non-de-plume for your name, however we recommend real email addresses are used. Comments from free email addresses such as Gmail, Yahoo, Hotmail, etc may not be approved. Anti-spam verification: Type the text you see in the image into the field below. You are asked to do this in order to verify that this enquiry is not being performed by an automated process. Related News: 24th December 2021 Morning Report Goodman Property Trust (NZX: GMT) GMT to develop North Shore facility for NZ Post 23rd December 2021 Morning Report SkyCity Entertainment Group Limited (NZX: SKC) EXPANDS STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP WITH GIG Spark New Zealand Limited (NZX: SPK) Spark to take full ownership of Connect 8 22nd December 2021 Morning Report Precinct Properties New Zealand Limited (NZX: PCT) Wynyard Quarter Stage 3 Commenced AMP Limited (NZX: AMP) Announces Delisting from the NZX Main Board 21st December 2021 Morning Report Greenfern Industries Limited (NZX: GFI) Updates on NTA Infratil says it is in talks with another party to buy Vodafone Group's New Zealand business. Infratil, which is managed by Morrison and Co, was put on a trading halt by the New Zealand stock exchange. The stock last traded at $4.60. "Following recent media speculation, Infratil confirms that it and another party are in discussions with Vodafone Group Plc regarding a potential transaction involving an acquisition of Vodafone New Zealand. The discussions with Vodafone and financiers are ongoing and incomplete, and may not result in a transaction occurring," it said. The trading halt will remain in place until an announcement is made or the market opens on Tuesday, the NZX said. The Australian Financial Review earlier reported that Morrison and Co and Canada's Brookfield Asset Management were in "late-stage talks" to buy Vodafone NZ in a 50:50 joint venture in a deal thought to be worth A$2.5 billion. Vodafone New Zealand declined to comment. Brookfield was not immediately available to comment. Lenders have reportedly lined up a funding package that includes about half a dozen banks and "were working through due diligence materials" in an effort to firm up their interest, the AFR said. Deutsche Bank is advising Vodafone. The move, if completed, will dash hopes for a sizeable listing on the New Zealand stock exchange. In November, Vodafone New Zealand's new chief executive Jason Parish said the plan was to float the company and the target for the initial public offering was 2020. Earlier this week, the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission blocked a A$15 billion merger of TPG Telecom and Vodafone's Australian business, arguing it would reduce competition. (BusinessDesk) Comments from our readers No comments yet Add your comment: Your name: Your email: Not displayed to the public Comment: Comments to Sharechat go through an approval process. Comments which are defamatory, abusive or in some way deemed inappropriate will not be approved. It is allowable to use some form of non-de-plume for your name, however we recommend real email addresses are used. Comments from free email addresses such as Gmail, Yahoo, Hotmail, etc may not be approved. Anti-spam verification: Type the text you see in the image into the field below. You are asked to do this in order to verify that this enquiry is not being performed by an automated process. Related News: 24th December 2021 Morning Report Goodman Property Trust (NZX: GMT) GMT to develop North Shore facility for NZ Post 23rd December 2021 Morning Report SkyCity Entertainment Group Limited (NZX: SKC) EXPANDS STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP WITH GIG Spark New Zealand Limited (NZX: SPK) Spark to take full ownership of Connect 8 22nd December 2021 Morning Report Precinct Properties New Zealand Limited (NZX: PCT) Wynyard Quarter Stage 3 Commenced AMP Limited (NZX: AMP) Announces Delisting from the NZX Main Board 21st December 2021 Morning Report Greenfern Industries Limited (NZX: GFI) Updates on NTA U.S. Special Representative for North Korea Stephen Biegun arrived in Seoul on Wednesday afternoon to discuss North Korea's latest missile provocation. During his stay until Friday, Biegun meets with his South Korean counterpart Lee Do-hoon and attends a regular bilateral working group meeting on ways to resume dialogue between Pyongyang and Washington. Biegun will also discuss providing food aid to the North after South Korea expressed its intention to offer it despite the missile launch. First Gas says a hydrogen pipeline trial it plans is likely to be among the first projects undertaken at the National New Energy Development Centre being set up in Taranaki. The company, which operates the trunk gas transmission network in the North Island, plans to select part of a pipeline network to test a range of assets on various blends of hydrogen gas, the best sources of hydrogen for those locations, and how to measure and meter energy flows. Hydrogen is emissions-free at the point of use, chief executive Paul Goodeve says. Trials are starting up all over the world and must start here in New Zealand if we are to have all options on the table to achieve our zero-emission targets. The trial is intensely practical: we need to work out what we need to modify on our network to transport the gas, and what adaptations users may need to make to machinery and practices. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern today said the government will spend $27 million to establish the new energy centre in New Plymouth as part of a strategy to help Taranakis long-term transition away from oil and gas. A further $20 million will be available over four years for research into cutting edge such as organic photovoltaics, superconductors and nanotechnologies. Hydrogen is being investigated worldwide as a low-carbon transport fuel, as an alternative to natural gas in industrial processing or domestic heating, or simply to reduce the emissions impact of existing piped gas services. But the economics are challenging, whether it is made from renewable electricity, or from natural gas with the resulting CO2 then sequestered. New Zealands highly renewable electricity system may tend to push the use of hydrogen into niche freight and heavy transport applications, Concept Consulting said in study published in February. First Gas, based in New Plymouth, is the countrys third-largest residential pipeline operator after Powerco and Vector. It also owns the Rockgas LPG business and the Ahuroa gas storage facility near Stratford. Transitioning to emissions-free energy poses tough technical and real-world challenges, and Taranaki holds the bulk of New Zealands expertise to do this, Goodeve said. Our project team will collaborate with others at the centre to develop solutions that work in the future energy sector. Commercial and regulatory general manager Ben Gerritsen said the firm is keeping abreast of a range of similar studies being carried out in the US, Australia and the UK. But he said it is important to test hydrogens potential in the local market and within the industrys regulatory arrangements. The timetable for establishing the new centre is unclear. In the meantime, Gerritsen said the firm will press ahead with the first stage of its work. Feasibility assessment and pipeline selection will establish a work programme to tool-up a section of the network so that it can transport hydrogen to participating end-users. That initial work should be wrapped up by the end of next year, Gerritsen said. Hydrogen is already made from gas in Taranaki, but First Gas says local expertise and technology could provide a dedicated source using wind or other renewable electricity to power an electrolyser that splits water into hydrogen and oxygen. (BusinessDesk) Comments from our readers No comments yet Add your comment: Your name: Your email: Not displayed to the public Comment: Comments to Sharechat go through an approval process. Comments which are defamatory, abusive or in some way deemed inappropriate will not be approved. It is allowable to use some form of non-de-plume for your name, however we recommend real email addresses are used. Comments from free email addresses such as Gmail, Yahoo, Hotmail, etc may not be approved. Anti-spam verification: Type the text you see in the image into the field below. You are asked to do this in order to verify that this enquiry is not being performed by an automated process. Related News: 24th December 2021 Morning Report Goodman Property Trust (NZX: GMT) GMT to develop North Shore facility for NZ Post 23rd December 2021 Morning Report SkyCity Entertainment Group Limited (NZX: SKC) EXPANDS STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP WITH GIG Spark New Zealand Limited (NZX: SPK) Spark to take full ownership of Connect 8 22nd December 2021 Morning Report Precinct Properties New Zealand Limited (NZX: PCT) Wynyard Quarter Stage 3 Commenced AMP Limited (NZX: AMP) Announces Delisting from the NZX Main Board 21st December 2021 Morning Report Greenfern Industries Limited (NZX: GFI) Updates on NTA Finance Commission members are on a two-day visit to Mumbai to meet officials of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), banks, financial institutions and economists to discuss several key issues. Mumbai: Amid a high voltage debate over statistical data, eminent economists in Mumbai on Thursday suggested that the Finance Commission "prioritize" the development of a robust statistical system. "A suggestion was raised for Finance Commission to consider giving priority to the development of a very robust statistical system in the country in its recommendations," an official statement said on Thursday. Several economists in a statement released earlier questioned the government's intent behind the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) methodology revision, and called for the restoration of the independence of statistical bodies in light of the allegations that the government was suppressing uncomfortable data. Besides, other issues like the need to adopt an overall view on the borrowing requirements of the consolidated public sector were raised. "It should be carefully examined whether the increased tax devolution by the 14th Finance Commission has led to improvements in the social spending of state governments," the statement said. "There is possibly a mismatch between the demand and supply of state development loans, which can affect the cost of borrowings of state governments in the next five years," it added. The economists noted that there are indications that suggest that the fiscal deficit to Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) ratio of the states taken as a whole is gradually declining, after the spike seen in 2015-16 and 2016-17. Another point of concern raised was the quality of budgeting. "The quality of budgeting needs to improve. Governments should not budget for a low fiscal deficit, knowing fully well that it cannot be achieved. Projections of revenues from GST is tricky, but not impossible if one can work with the available data," the statement said. Given the shift from the use of the 1971 population to the 2001 population, some economists pointed towards the need for instituting an incentive structure in devolution. The composition of population in terms of the proportion of the elderly in the population is becoming significantly different across states, the statement said. Some economists also urged the commission to consider reinstating the system of specific-purpose grants to ensure development of social sectors and other sectors that require hand holding. "Out of the 39 per cent out-of-survey units in MCA, 21 per cent were found to be out of coverage and another 12 per cent were non-traceable (which in number is nearly 4,000 units)," said the report. New Delhi: Doubts about veracity of the new series of GDP launched in 2015 have resurfaced after a new National Sample Survey Office (NSSO) report showed that around 39 per cent of companies in the MCA-21 database, used for GDP calculation, could not be traced or surveyed. These companies were described as "active" companies by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs. This revelation casts further shadow on the new series of GDP data, which had showed significant drop in the growth estimate for the UPA administration. The usage of MCA-21 data was started with the new series in 2015, instead of the previous data taken from the Reserve Bank of India. Several statistians and economists have raised concerns over the accuracy of the data since its inception. R. Nagaraj, a professor at the Indira Gandhi Institute of Development Research in Mumbai said that this report vindicates the critics' stand including his on doubts over the MCA data. "This is a damaging report for the CSO," Nagaraj said. "The general criticism was that there was a large proportion of these so called active could beA non-working companies. They may not producing goods and services, although they legally exist on paper," he added. Nagaraj was among the first people to raise concerns over this. The report noted that non-response of a large number of units was a major setback for the survey. "This happened due to unit non-response, closure of the unit, unit found to be the one other than headquarter, unit out of coverage or unit non-traceable," it said. The recent figures raise fresh concerns as the older GDP series relied on a survey of companies conducted by the Reserve Bank of India for the private corporate sector, while the newer one employed the 'MCA-21' database maintained by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs that contains a list of registered companies. In the appendix of the report titled Technical Report on Services Sector Enterprises in India, NSSO said: "Many units, particularly of MCA list were not identifiable due to lack of proper or adequate postal addresses. Therefore, many notices could not be delivered." The report observed that in many cases, the selected enterprises either did not prepare their annual audit reports for 2015-16 or did not prepare balance sheets any time before.A "This resulted in delay in the progress of the survey and increase in the number of non-response cases," it said. The NSS 74th round survey was a first of its kind survey for the service sector in the country. Pronab Sen, India's former Chief Statistician, however, denied that revelation casts shadow on the GDP data, but said that it shows that "there are many more shell companies than we had thought." He suggested that the new government should take note of the concerns over veracity of statistical data in the country. "I would seriously hope that the new government would take the recent incidents seriously and give the statistical system the autonomy which is required," Sen added. Defence attorneys called Meng's detention at Vancouver International Airport an "abuse of power" and said that at the next hearing, set for September 23, they will formally ask British Columbia Supreme Court Judge Heather Holmes to quash the case. Toronto: Canada's arrest of Meng Wanzhou last December at the behest of the US was unlawful and Washington's request for her extradition should be rejected, lawyers for the Chief Financial Officer of Chinese telecommunications giant Huawei told a Canadian judge on Wednesday. Assuming the process moves forward after the September session, the soonest the court would hear arguments on the legality of extradition would be next January. Meng, the daughter of Huawei founder and CEO Ren Zhengfei, was taken into custody December 1 during a layover in Vancouver en route from Hong Kong to Mexico. She is on bail since then, though subject to electronic monitoring while residing in one of the two homes she and her husband own in Vancouver. Holmes acceded Wednesday to Meng's request to be allowed to relocate to her other residence in the city. In January, US federal prosecutors charged Meng with engaging in bank fraud, wire fraud and other financial misdeeds to enable Huawei to evade Washington's unilateral sanctions against Iran. The lawyers who accompanied Meng at Wednesday's hearing in Vancouver told the judge they will seek more information from prosecutors about the circumstances of the December 1 arrest. "The RCMP (Royal Canadian Mounted Police) intentionally delayed the presentation of the arrest warrant in order to carry out unlawful detention and search against Meng under the pretense of a routine border check," Huawei's Vice President of Media Affairs, Benjamin Howes, said outside the courthouse. "Her luggage was searched. Her cell phone and other electronic devices were seized at the direction of the FBI - and she was compelled to reveal her passwords," Howes said. Regarding the substance of the US charges, the Huawei spokesman said defence lawyers presented evidence showing that "business activities by Meng were conducted openly and transparently with full knowledge of banking officials." Howes also said that the US extradition request is invalid under the terms of Canadian law and bilateral accords between Washington and Ottawa, because none of the actions imputed to Meng are crimes in Canada. "The US allegations against Meng are based on violations of the US sanctions against Iran. However, Canada does not impose sanctions on financial services in relation to Iran," he said. Huawei Technologies Co. Ltd. is the world's largest maker of telecommunications and China's flagship enterprise. Beijing has reacted angrily to the US legal offensive against the company and its executives. Several Canadians have been detained in China since Meng's arrest and most of Beijing's public ire has been directed at Ottawa. In late January, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau fired his country's ambassador to China after the envoy suggested that the courts in Canada might rule against extradition. US President Donald Trump's suggestions that he could use the legal case against Huawei and Meng to pressure China on trade may be grounds for a Canadian judge to rebuff the extradition request, John McCallum said. Those comments from Trump have been cited repeatedly by Meng's attorneys and Howes referred on Wednesday to "political factors at play during the extradition process." The government is looking into possibility of providing food aid to North Korea despite the North's firing of a short-range missile last weekend. "I will make an announcement after considering the matter comprehensively," Unification Minister Kim Yeon-chul told reporters Wednesday. The comments came just a day after Cheong Wa Dae said President Moon Jae-in and his U.S. counterpart Donald Trump discussed the issue in a telephone call on Tuesday. Speaking after a visit to the inter-Korean liaison office in the North Korea's border town of Kaesong, Kim said, "I will look into what specific roles the ministry should play" in providing food aid. It was Kim's first trip to the communist state since taking office last month. The Foreign Ministry is to discuss the issue with U.S. Special Representative for North Korea Stephen Biegun, who is currently in Seoul. "We need to raise many domesticated animals such as rabbits, sheep and goats to produce milk, fur and leather by feeding them only grass instead of grain." The official Rodong Sinmun daily on Tuesday urged North Koreans to "launch a mass drive to raise herbivorous domesticated animals." North Korea's state media is pumping out lachrymose reports on the country's self-inflicted food shortage even as the regime fritters away billions on more weapons tests. Late last month state media said that "rice is more precious than gold" and urged increased food production. Normally food shortages are downplayed because most North Koreans know that their regime is to blame for them, but now the North plays up the impact of international sanctions. The drive to raise "herbivorous" livestock is an ancient doctrine from the 1950s, when nation founder Kim Il-sung was in power. In August 1962, Kim instructed North Koreans to "exchange grass for meat" but the measure was a dire failure. His son Kim Jong-il implemented the same measure during the famine of the 1990s known as the "arduous march," when millions died due to catastrophic mismanagement of the command economy. North Korea also launched a nationwide drive to raise rabbits during the early 2000s. After Kim Jong-un came to power in 2012, it attempted to create huge pastures in the southeastern province of Kangwon to raise livestock, but failed. Studies suggest that the food shortage has grown worse since the second half of 2017, when international sanctions were tightened. North Korea produced just 4.95 million tons of food last year, which was down about nine percent compared to 2017. A North Korea source said, "Atypical weather, drought, and a shortage of fertilizer resulted in a decreased crop output, while it became more difficult to import food." But the regime somehow found the money for massive prestige projects in Pyongyang and elsewhere while continuing an expensive nuclear and missile program, and may well be playing up the shortage now to force an easing of international sanctions. North Korean state media on Wednesday defended the country's "historic" mission to acquire nuclear weapons while developing its economy, even as the regime holds out the begging bowl for food aid to the international community. The small impoverished nation is an "invincible power that has fulfilled the historic cause of parallel development" of the economy and nuclear weapons, the official Rodong Sinumn daily crowed, and has "taken the initiative in policy trends towards peace amid a death-defying confrontation with hostile forces." It added the North's "independent dignity and strategic status have reached a zenith over the past three years. We now have a self-sustaining war deterrence with which we can resolutely subdue and smash any kind of tyranny and fanaticism." In a statement, Neil Basu, Britain's counter-terrorism chief, said he was satisfied that the leak, which brought down the Defence Secretary, did not breach the Official Secrets Act, Al Jazeera reported. London: The British police on Saturday declined to investigate the leak of details from a secret government discussion about Chinese telecom company Huawei, saying that the disclosure does not amount to any crime. "No crime has been committed and this is not a matter for the police," he said. Opposition lawmakers had urged for an investigation after Prime Minister Theresa May sacked Gavin Williamson as Defence Secretary over reports that Britain had agreed to let Huawei participate in some aspects of Britain's new 5G wireless communications network. The decision was reportedly made at an April 23 meeting of the National Security Council (NSC). The council's discussions were only attended by senior ministers and security officials who first signed the Official Secrets Act that allows them to keep conversations private or risk prosecution. Basu, whose section is responsible for investigating alleged breaches of the act, said a probe would be inappropriate. "I am satisfied that the disclosure did not amount to a criminal offence, either under the Official Secrets Act or misconduct in a public office," Basu was quoted as saying. "The leak did not cause damage to the public interest at a level at which it would be necessary to engage misconduct in a public office. It would be inappropriate to carry out a police investigation in these circumstances," he added. Williamson has repeatedly denied he was the source of the leak and suggested that May had cleared Huawei to be involved in "non-core" elements of the 5G networks. The 42-year-old former minister was once a trusted ally of May. He was May's parliamentary campaign manager when she successfully ran to become Conservative Party leader in 2016. The United States is adamantly opposed to Huawei's involvement in developing Britain's 5G network due to the firm's obligation under Chinese law to help its home government gather intelligence or provide other security services when required. North Korea wants Japan to lift an entry ban for North Koreans as a precondition for a summit with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, the Tokyo Shimbun reported Wednesday citing a North Korea source. The demand comes after Abe said he will meet with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un without any strings attached. The source told the daily that if the two countries are to improve bilateral relations and build trust, free human exchanges should come first. "People from both sides should be allowed to travel freely before the two leaders meet," the source said. Japan has banned people with North Korean passports from entering the country since February 2016, when the North launched a ballistic missile. Smiles across nations schools By:Zheng Qian | From:english.eastday.com | 2019-05-09 09:32 With May 8, being world smile day, children across the nation participated in smile-themed events. Third-year pupils from Yangguangcheng Experimental Primary School in Suzhou showcase their handcrafted cartoon smiles on May 8, 2019. [Photo/photo.gmw.cn] Students of the Experimental Kindergarten in Binzhou High-tech Zone, Shandong, carve smile faces onto pumpkins to celebrate World Smile Day. [Photo/photo.gmw.cn] Pupils from Hongmenpu Primary School in Shiyan, Hubei Province, cut paper smile faces on May 7. [Photo/photo.gmw.cn] Pupils from East Wuta Temple Primary School in Hohhot, Inner Mongolia, make smile faces with fruits and vegetables on May 7. [Photo/photo.gmw.cn] Pupils from Minzhu Road Primary School in Gulou District, Xuzhou city, in Jiangsu run with little windmills to welcome the World Smile Day on May 7. [Photo/photo.gmw.cn] While smiles come most naturally to children, it is also important for adults to remember that research has shown that even a smile forced with a pencil held between the teeth makes all of us feel happier. So, turn that frown upside down and embrace the incredible power of smiling. Page Content Registration remains open for the 4th Dutch Caribbean AML (Anti-Money Laundering) & Gaming Regulation Forum that will take place from June 4-7 at the Sonesta Maho Beach Resort, Casino and Spa at Maho. The Government of Sint Maarten via the Ministry of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Traffic and Telecommunications (TEATT) and GovRisk, a UK-based Training & Consultancy specialising in Financial Crime Prevention and Anti-Corruption, are calling on the business community to register for the Forum that will promote compliance, Anti-Money Laundering, New technologies and Exploring the Future of Business Risk. To REGISTER for the forum, simply follow this link: www.govrisk.org/DCGRF2019 . Click on Register, then input the special discount code TEATT and follow the process through to the end. Minister of Tourism & Economic Affairs Stuart Johnson is calling on businesses in the AML & Gaming Regulation and support sectors to sign-up to attend the Forum. This regional event will bring together key stakeholders such as: Banks - Compliance Officers & Internal Risk Managers; Central Banks, Regulatory & Supervisory Bodies; Financial Intelligence Units, Treasury & Revenue, Law Enforcement; Casinos, Lotteries, Slot & Arcade Operators; Designated Non-Financial Businesses and Professions (DNFBPs) such as: Law Firms, Auditors & Accountants, Insurance Firms, Real Estate Agents, Car Dealers, Jewellers, Credit Unions & Charities. Over 100 casino directors, gaming regulators, compliance officers, law enforcement personnel and representatives from the legal and banking sectors from across five Caribbean jurisdictions will attend the event. The Forum will provide the opportunity to learn international best practices and the latest trends from the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force (CFATF) and other entities in attendance about Global Regulatory Standards and Strategies to reduce the risk of criminal activity. The Forum will be focusing on how to effectively prepare our country and other jurisdictions in attendance to put the necessary regulations in place in accordance with CFATF recommendations, Minister of Tourism & Economic Affairs Stuart Johnson said on Wednesday. All Training Sessions, Workshops, Debates and Discussions will be led by international experts that will address global regulatory standards and strategies to reduce the risk of criminal activity and increase compliance & transparency. May 4 show highlights Suns role in movement From:Shanghai Daily | 2019-05-09 07:29 An exhibition at the former Shanghai residence of revolutionist Sun Yat-sen, now his memorial, highlights his support for the May 4th Movement in 1919. The movement was launched by young Chinese to fight imperialism and feudalism. It began with a series of demonstrations in Beijing by students on May 4, 1919, objecting to the then governments weak responses to the stipulations of the Treaty of Versailles, which decided to transfer the previous privileges in Shandong seized by Germany to Japan. It soon spread to other cities in China, including Shanghai, Nanjing and Guangzhou. It gave a boost to nationalism, drawing wide public participation. At that time, Sun was living at 29 Rue de Moliere, now 7 Xiangshan Road. Sun did not launch or lead the movement directly, but as a revolutionist, he paid close attention to it and provided support and guidance for the students, said Li Li, deputy director of the memorial and organizer of the exhibition. Among the exhibits are copies of the Republic Daily newspaper which had widely reported on the movement in a supportive way under Suns guidance. In Shanghai, there were a number of activities in support of the movement, including a gathering of students and public on May 7, while 60,000 to 70,000 workers went onto the streets from June 5. Sun asked Shao Lizi, editor-in-chief of Republic Daily, to deliver a speech at Fudan University on May 6 and urged students to establish a union to push forward the movement. The exhibition is free and will run through August 8. The memorial is open from 9am to 4:30pm, Tuesday to Sunday. 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Officials of Nepal and India have decided to close the border point from Friday to Sunday as there is another round of election in Bihar on Sunday. Parsas Chief District Officer Narayan Prasad Bhattarai informs that the officials have informed the fuel tankers can ply the road uninterrupted as it is an essential consumable. The border would close for 48 hours in previous elections. However, it has been extended to 72 hours now owing to security concerns of the other side, according to Bhattarai. He adds that that government agencies in the neighbourhood across the border have also requested Nepali media of border cities not to disseminate any message about the election. The content herein, unless otherwise known to be public domain, are Copyright 1995-2018 - Space Media Network. All websites are published in Australia and are solely subject to Australian law and governed by Fair Use principals for news reporting and research purposes. AFP, UPI and IANS news wire stories are copyright Agence France-Presse, United Press International and Indo-Asia News Service. ESA news reports are copyright European Space Agency. All NASA sourced material is public domain. Additional copyrights may apply in whole or part to other bona fide parties. Advertising does not imply endorsement, agreement or approval of any opinions, statements or information provided by Space Media Network on any Web page published or hosted by Space Media Network. Privacy Statement Los Angeles Police Department(LOS ANGELES) -- A man in Los Angeles' posh Holmby Hills neighborhood was hiding a stash of weapons large enough to outfit an army. The Los Angeles Police Department busted Girard Damien Saenz, 57, with as many as 1,000 weapons piled up in his home. Authorities also found massive stockpiles of ammunition. Saenz, who was living in the home alone, was booked for unlawful transportation and giving, lending or selling assault weapons. Additional charges may be added later, including federal charges, authorities said. He is being held on $50,000 bond. "I had never seen so many weapons in my career of 31 years," said LAPD Lt. Chris Ramirez. "That's such a big arsenal in a residence like this, in this type of neighborhood. It's astounding." Holmby Hills is bordered by the Beverly Hills and Bel Air neighborhoods and is home to the late Aaron Spelling's massive $85 million mansion and the Playboy Mansion. Officials removed all of the guns -- hundreds of rifles, semiautomatics, handguns and even antique Civil War-era guns -- and piled them up outside the man's home. Officials spent the entire afternoon cataloging the humongous stash of firearms. Ramirez called the cache of weapons "beyond comprehension" in a press conference Wednesday. He said the large house was cluttered with piles of guns and ammunition spread throughout different rooms. Saenz apparently was licensed to own weapons -- and there is no prohibition on the number of guns a person can own -- but the person was selling the guns illegally, according to police. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) assisted in the operation. Copyright 2019, ABC Radio. All rights reserved. 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 Three Mile Island nuclear plant to close by September 30 New York, May 8 (AFP) May 08, 2019 The Three Mile Island nuclear plant, site 40 years ago of the worst ever US nuclear accident, is to shut down in September, its owner announced on Wednesday. Exelon Generation had been seeking subsidies from Pennsylvania lawmakers to keep the money-losing facility open, but the company said that would apparently not happen in time. "We don't see a path forward for policy changes before the June 1 fuel purchasing deadline for TMI," Kathleen Barron, an Exelon senior vice president, said in a statement. Exelon said Three Mile Island Generating Station Unit 1, located in Middletown, Pennsylvania, will shut down by September 30. The energy company had warned two years ago that it may be forced to shut the plant down in the absence of assistance from the state legislature. Three Mile Island had a license to continue operations until 2034. "Today is a difficult day for our employees, who were hopeful that state policymakers would support valuing carbon-free nuclear energy the same way they value other forms of clean energy," said Bryan Hanson, another Exelon senior vice president. Nuclear facilities have been under pressure for years from competition from electricity generated from other cheaper sources such as natural gas. The March 28, 1979 partial meltdown at Three Mile Island remains the worst nuclear accident in US history although it pales in comparison to the disasters at Chernobyl and Fukushima in 1989 and 2011 respectively. The meltdown registered a five on the International Nuclear Event Scale that peaks at seven, the rate given to the Chernobyl and Fukushima disasters No one died at Three Mile Island and no one was seriously injured but the accident sparked nationwide concern about the safety of nuclear power and put the brakes on construction of new reactors. US keeps raising Iran pressure, but to what end? Washington, May 9 (AFP) May 09, 2019 One year after President Donald Trump bolted from the Iran nuclear deal, the United States is ratcheting up pressure on Tehran nearly by the day, from expanding sanctions to deploying B-52 bombers. But even if the US campaign has succeeded in causing economic suffering in Iran, the broader objectives remain vague, with no clear end-game on how to wind down tensions that have raised fears of war. Iran -- which for the past year has made a point of steadfastly complying with the multinational nuclear accord negotiated under then president Barack Obama -- on Wednesday's anniversary said it would stop observing some limits set by the deal. Voicing frustration, President Hassan Rouhani appealed to European powers -- which still back the agreement -- to do more to allow trade so Iran feels the benefits of the agreement. The Trump administration has relentlessly pursued a campaign of "maximum pressure," on Wednesday vowing to stop all of Iran's steel and mineral exports -- after already threatening to punish any country that buys its top product, oil. In recent days the United States has also announced the deployment of an aircraft carrier strike group and the nuclear-capable B-52 bombers to the region, warning of a response to what it charges is an "imminent" threat from Iran. Senator Chris Murphy, a Democrat, called Trump's policy an "unmitigated disaster" that has goaded Iran into resuming a nuclear program that it had stopped. "Trump's Iran strategy is blind escalation. There is no end-game. No overriding strategy. No way out," Murphy tweeted. "It's just escalation for the sake of escalation. That's wildly dangerous and inexcusably dumb, in that order," he said. - 'Method to the madness'?- Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said that the pressure campaign has achieved "significant successes" and has repeatedly pointed to financial woes of Hezbollah, the militantly anti-Israel Lebanese movement backed by Iran. Pompeo in May 2018 laid out 12 demands that virtually no Iran watchers believe the clerical regime will meet, including a complete scaling back of its regional role and support of Shiite militias, who often clash with US allies Saudi Arabia and Israel. Suzanne Maloney, deputy director for foreign policy at the Brookings Institution, played down the risks of war, saying that the Trump administration understood the dangers of a full-fledged conflict with Iran. "What the administration does want is for Iran to be under maximum pressure for a sustained period of time in order to minimize or even reverse its advantages across the region," Maloney said. She said that US officials believed from past experience that Iran "doesn't bend under a small amount of pressure" but could change if faced with severe threats. "I think there is a method to the madness," she said. But she doubted Iran would bow to demands to withdraw itself from the region. "I don't think they will pull back because if they did, the administration would read that as a signal that its approach is working and it would only double-down," she said. - Nuclear deal withers - Some experts believe that the United States may in fact welcome an unraveling of the nuclear accord, which would no longer give Iran the moral high ground of complying with it. "If the administration is willing to take the risk of the nuclear deal completely collapsing, then their policies to date are moving us in that direction," said Dalia Dassa Kaye, director of the Center for Middle East Public Policy at the Rand Corporation. An Iranian withdrawal would help the administration build support for a more confrontational approach, she said. "The question is still, to what end?" she said. "Some may hope for a regime collapse, but the Europeans -- and certainly not the Russians or Chinese -- will not support that objective," she said, adding that there remained "a lot of confusion" over US objectives. Trump, who threatened to destroy North Korea before meeting its leader Kim Jong Un in two landmark summits, on Wednesday said that he hoped "someday" to negotiate face-to-face with Iran's leaders. But few see a willingness to meet the hawkish president from Iran's leaders, for whom hostility toward the United States is a bedrock principle of the 1979 Islamic Revolution that toppled the pro-Western shah. Instead, Iranian officials may be waiting for next year to see if Trump is re-elected, with the Democrats seeking to unseat him broadly supporting the nuclear accord. But Quentin Lopinot, a visiting fellow at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, said an expected showdown could come much sooner. "The question is the breaking point. When will the Iranians stop sticking to a point-by-point response?" he said. In Iran's announcement, it gave European powers 60 days to fulfill commitments on sanctions relief -- a hard sell for European businesses that fear punishment in the United States. "Until now the Iranians seemed to want to buy time, but this ultimatum risks bringing forward an escalation," Lopinot said. Fears of new jihadist 'academies' as Iraqi jails fill up Baghdad, May 9 (AFP) May 09, 2019 As Iraq tries thousands of locals and foreigners accused of joining the Islamic State group, experts warn its jails could once again become "academies" for jihadists. Prison was a pivotal moment for many prominent jihadists -- not least of them Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, IS's Iraqi supremo who remains at large despite the collapse of his "caliphate" in March. Baghdadi was held in Camp Bucca, a sprawling US-run complex in the southern Iraqi desert, where he is thought to have essentially "come of age" as a jihadist leader. "For many members of such groups, prison was one of multiple 'stages' of jihad," said Hisham al-Hashemi, an expert in Iraqi jihadist movements. They ran their own religious studies courses and even planned attacks on civilians or ordered assassinations of security forces from within the prison walls. "The cells become the equivalent of academies -- even if there's just one prisoner with extremist thoughts, he can recruit the rest," Hashemi told AFP. Iraq has already condemned hundreds of its own nationals as well as scores of foreigners to life in prison for joining IS. It has begun trial proceedings for another 900 Iraqis recently repatriated from neighbouring Syria and has offered to try foreigners stuck in legal limbo there, too. - 'Breeding grounds' - But its prison system is the subject of fierce criticism. Advocacy groups accuse security forces of using circumstantial evidence to detain people on terrorism charges, extracting confessions under torture and keeping suspects in overcrowded cells with no access to lawyers. Cells built to hold around 20 detainees are often packed with 50, a source working in the jails told AFP, and prisoners are often caught smuggling phones or passing on information during family visits, especially to their wives. Those arrested for petty crimes are often held with hardened jihadists, which has facilitated recruitment in the past, said security analyst Fadel Abu Raghif. "Most of those detained were Islamic jurists and thinkers. They're able to argue, provide evidence, brainwash and persuade people," he told AFP. Those recruited in jail are typically not religiously orthodox to begin with, but have instead been drawn by "rhetoric playing on a narrative of oppression", Abu Raghif added. In the aftermath of Saddam Hussein's toppling by US-led forces in 2003, insurgent groups seized on the feeling of marginalisation among the country's Sunnis as fodder for recruitment. More than fifteen years later, observers fear that same perception of persecution is back. The Soufan Center, a New York-based think tank, said Iraq "suppressed, but never actually addressed" the grievances of its Sunni communities. The deployment of the mostly-Shiite Hashed al-Shaabi paramilitary units in Sunni-majority areas recaptured from IS "has fuelled sectarian resentment among local populations", the Center wrote this month. That anger could pave the way for a repeat of the mid-2000s: "As happened before with Camp Bucca, these detention centres are becoming breeding grounds for radicalisation." - No repeat of Bucca - Iraq's government has declined to provide figures on detention centres or prisoners, including how many are facing terrorism-related charges, although some studies estimate 20,000 are being held for purported IS links. Some facilities have shut down in recent years, including the Abu Ghraib complex that became infamous for prisoner abuse during the US-led occupation. Others were rocked by riots and prison breaks that allowed detainees accused of "terrorism" to escape. Now, with more repatriated fighters expected to arrive in the coming months, observers fear an already-strained system will be flooded. "The prisons that are being used definitely are insufficient in capacity to hold potentially, thousands of extra people that will be transferred," warned Belkis Wille of Human Rights Watch. HRW has called on the international community to help Iraq improve its judicial processes and revamp its jails -- but Iraq, Wille said, may have something else in mind. "The authorities are very conscious, and do not want something like Abu Ghraib or Bucca to happen again," she told AFP. "It is a part of the reason why so many of the suspects are getting the death penalty or life (in) prison. I think the intention is that these people would not come out of prison, so you would not have the same dynamic." Trump moves to strangle Iran economy as nuclear deal withers Washington, May 9 (AFP) May 09, 2019 US President Donald Trump on Wednesday tightened the screws further on Iran with sanctions on its mining industry after a frustrated Tehran said it would suspend some promises it made under a nuclear deal rejected by Washington. On the anniversary of Trump's withdrawal from the accord he denounced as "horrible," tensions were soaring as the United States deployed an aircraft carrier strike group and nuclear-capable bombers to the region and accused Iran of "imminent" attacks. In an announcement previewed for days, Iran said it would immediately stop implementing some restrictions under the 2015 deal -- a move aimed largely at pressing Washington's European allies to step up to preserve the agreement. Tehran said it would abandon even more if the remaining parties to the agreement -- Britain, China, France, Germany and Russia -- failed to start delivering on their commitments to sanctions relief within 60 days. President Hassan Rouhani said the ultimatum was intended to rescue the nuclear deal from Trump, whose sanctions have caused severe pain in Iran -- which had anticipated an economic boon from the agreement negotiated under then-president Barack Obama. "We felt the (deal) needed surgery and that the year-long sedatives have not delivered any result. This surgery is meant to save the (deal), not destroy it," Rouhani said at a cabinet meeting broadcast live on state television. Rouhani denounced European countries for seeing the United States as the world's "sheriff" and said their view kept them from making "firm decisions for their own national interests." - Cutting Iranian exports - Trump quickly fired back as he moved to inflict greater economic pain on Iran, imposing sanctions that would punish anyone who buys or trades the country's iron, steel, aluminum and copper. The White House had already acted forcefully to prevent all countries from buying Iran's oil -- its crucial money-maker -- and said that the steel and mining sector was the country's second-largest source of foreign revenue, accounting for 10 percent of exports. "Tehran can expect further actions unless it fundamentally alters its conduct," Trump said in a statement. But in a shift in tone, Trump -- who talked tough on North Korea before two landmark summits with leader Kim Jong Un -- said he was willing to negotiate face-to-face. "I look forward to someday meeting with the leaders of Iran in order to work out an agreement and, very importantly, taking steps to give Iran the future it deserves," he said. At a rally in Florida late Wednesday Trump said he hopes that "a fair deal" can be worked out at some point. "We aren't looking to hurt anybody," he told supporters. "We just don't want them to have nuclear weapons. That's all we want." Observers believe it is highly unlikely that Iran's leaders -- who have made hostility to the United States a bedrock principle since the 1979 Islamic Revolution toppled the pro-Western shah -- would want to meet Trump, who has repeatedly threatened the country. But Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif regularly saw his counterpart in the Obama administration, then secretary of state John Kerry, and recently dangled the prospect of a prisoner swap with the United States. - Moving limits on uranium, heavy water - Iran's Supreme National Security Council said it no longer considered itself bound by the agreed restrictions on stocks of enriched uranium and heavy water. It said that after 60 days, it would also stop abiding by limits on the level to which Iran can enrich uranium and modifications to its Arak heavy water reactor that were designed to prevent the production of plutonium. Uranium enriched to much higher levels than Iran's current stocks can be used as the fissile core of a nuclear weapon, while heavy water is a source of plutonium, which can be used as an alternative way to produce a warhead. Robert Kelley, a former UN nuclear inspector now with the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, said on a practical level, the commitments Iran was dropping had no bearing on its ability to develop an atomic bomb. He added that Iran was simply seeking to "save face" after "striking a deal which was not respected by the other side." - Concern in Europe - The three European parties to the deal tried to save the accord with a trade mechanism meant to bypass reimposed US sanctions, but their attempt was dismissed by Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei as a "bitter joke." The European powers voiced alarm at Iran's statement and expressed hope that the nuclear deal could be preserved. "It is important to avoid any action that would prevent the enactment of the obligations by parties currently upholding the agreement or that might fuel an escalation," a French foreign ministry spokesperson said. And German Chancellor Angela Merkel's spokesman Steffen Seibert said: "We as Europeans, as Germans, will play our part and we expect full implementation from Iran as well." European powers reject Iran 'ultimatums' on nuclear deal Berlin, May 9 (AFP) May 09, 2019 European powers said Thursday that they still backed the nuclear deal with Iran, but rejected any "ultimatums" from Tehran to keep it alive. "We reject any ultimatums and we will assess Iran's compliance on the basis of Iran's performance regarding its nuclear-related commitments" under a 2015 deal, the EU's foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini and the foreign ministers of Britain, France and Germany said in a statement. Iran said Wednesday it had stopped respecting limits on its nuclear activities agreed under the deal with major powers until they find a way to bypass renewed US sanctions, as Washington accused Tehran of resorting to "blackmail". Tehran said it was responding to the sweeping unilateral sanctions that Washington has reimposed since it quit the agreement one year ago, which have dealt a severe blow to the Iranian economy. In their statement, the Europeans underlined "our own firm commitments under the agreement including as regards sanctions-lifting for the benefit of the Iranian people" but criticised the US sanctions. "In this regard, we regret the re-imposition of sanctions by the United States following their withdrawal from the JCPoA," -- Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action -- as the nuclear deal is known. "We call on countries not party to the JCPoA to refrain from taking any actions that impede the remaining parties' ability to fully perform their commitments." The European powers added that they were "determined to continue pursuing efforts to enable the continuation of legitimate trade with Iran" in an effort to keep the imperilled pact afloat. But it said that Iran must at the same time "implement its commitments under the JCPoA in full as it has done until now and to refrain from any escalatory steps". North Korea fires projectiles: South's military Seoul, May 9 (AFP) May 09, 2019 North Korea fired a number of unidentified projectiles Thursday, the South's military said, as a US envoy visited Seoul for discussions on how to break the nuclear deadlock. "North Korea fired unidentified projectiles eastward" from Sino-ri in North Pyongan province, the South's Joint Chiefs of Staff said in a statement. The launch came just days after North Korea carried out a military drill and fired multiple projectiles, with at least one believed to be a short-range missile. It was also hours after the US Special Representative on North Korea, Stephen Biegun, arrived in Seoul late Wednesday for talks with South Korean officials on the allies' approach towards Pyongyang. It is Biegun's first visit to Seoul since the Hanoi summit between US President Donald Trump and the North's leader Kim Jong Un collapsed without agreement. "We are still analysing whether it is a single or multiple projectiles," JCS spokesman Kim Joon-rak told AFP. Pyongyang, Seoul and Washington have refrained from calling Saturday's launch a missile, which could jeopardise the ongoing diplomacy by violating UN Security Council resolutions as well as Kim's promise of a freeze on long-range missile tests. The North has said Saturday's drill involved multiple Pyongyang "long-range multiple rocket launchers and tactical guided weapons". But experts say the North launched at least one short-range missile during the exercise, with a report on the respected 38 North website suggesting that it was a "direct import" of a Russian-produced Iskander. "The debris generated by the launch in North Korea is a virtual match of a launch of Iskander conducted by Russia," it said. If North Korea imported Iskanders from Russia, the report added, "it has an existing capacity to deliver warheads to targets in South Korea with great precision". A summit between South Korean President Moon Jae-in and the North's Kim Jong Un a year ago triggered a rapid diplomatic thaw on the peninsula, paving the way for a historic first meeting between Kim and Trump. But their second summit in Hanoi in February broke up without agreement on sanctions relief and what Pyongyang might offer in exchange, and the North has since blamed Seoul for siding with Washington, leaving inter-Korean relations in limbo. A spokesman for the North's delegation for military talks with the South said earlier Thursday that Saturday's "routine drill" was conducted within its own waters and added the "flying objects" did not pose any threat to the US, South Korea and Japan. "The firing of the intermediate- and long-range missile and the ICBM was not involved in it," he said in a statement carried by the official Korean Central News Agency. US ends support for Japan crashed fighter jet search Tokyo, May 9 (AFP) May 09, 2019 The US Navy has ended operations assisting Japan's search for a stealth fighter jet that crashed in the Pacific, after some of its debris was recovered. "A US Navy salvage team aboard a contracted vessel completed its mission supporting search and recovery operations with the Japan Self-Defense Forces," the US 7th Fleet said in a statement on Wednesday. Japan will continue searching for the remains of the plane, a defence spokesman said. Some debris has already been recovered from the high-tech F-35A that plummeted into the sea off the coast of northeastern Japan on April 9. But the "all-important" memory that could offer clues into the accidents has not been recovered, and the jet's pilot has also not been found. Experts say Japan and the US are keen to prevent debris from the plane being recovered by Russia or China, with Japan's Defence Minister Takeshi Iwaya admitting last month there were "a significant amount of secrets that need to be protected" on board. The fighter jet went missing on April 9 while flying 135 kilometres (85 miles) east of Misawa, northeastern Japan, on a training mission. The plane lost contact about 30 minutes after taking off from Misawa Air Base with three other aircraft. It was the first reported case of a crash by an F35-A, according to Japan's Air Self-Defence Force. Japan is deploying F35-As, each of which costs more than 10 billion yen ($90 million), to replace its ageing F-4 fighters. They are a key part of Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's efforts to upgrade the nation's military capacity to meet changing power dynamics in East Asia, with China rapidly modernising its military. North Korea appears to have fired two missiles: South's military Seoul, May 9 (AFP) May 09, 2019 Weapons fired by North Korea Thursday appeared to be two separate missiles, the South's military said, in what was Pyongyang's second launch in less than a week. The North "fired what appeared to be two short-range missiles" from North Pyongan province, Seoul's Joint Chiefs of Staff said in a statement, adding they flew 270 and 420 kilometres (170 and 260 miles) and the South Korean and US militaries were jointly analysing them. Europe rejects Iran 'ultimatum' but stands by nuke deal Sibiu, Romania, May 9 (AFP) May 09, 2019 European powers on Thursday rejected "ultimatums" from Tehran but vowed to fight to save the Iran nuclear deal, as tensions with the US soar. Iran said it would defy some restrictions agreed under the 2015 accord and threatened to go further if Europe, China and Russia fail to deliver sanctions relief within 60 days. Tehran says it is responding to unilateral US sanctions imposed after President Donald Trump ripped up what he called a "horrible" deal, dealing a severe blow to the Iranian economy. Europe has stressed the importance of the deal -- in which Iran agreed to curb its nuclear ambitions in return for sanctions relief -- for its own security, and EU president Jean-Claude Juncker said it would be on the agenda at Thursday's summit in the Romanian town of Sibiu. French President Emmanuel Macron appealed for calm, saying Europe must work to convince Iran to stick with the deal. "We must not get jumpy or fall into escalation," Macron said. EU diplomatic chief Federica Mogherini and France, Germany and Britain -- the three European signatories to the deal -- voiced "great concern" at President Hassan Rouhani's dramatic intervention. "We strongly urge Iran to continue to implement its commitments under the JCPOA in full as it has done until now and to refrain from any escalatory steps," they said in a joint statement, referring to the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action. "We reject any ultimatums and we will assess Iran's compliance on the basis of Iran's performance regarding its nuclear-related commitments under the JCPOA." Macron warned that leaving the deal would "unstitch what we have achieved". "That's why France is staying in, and will stay in and I profoundly hope Iran will stay in," Macron said as he arrived for the summit. The EU statement stressed the International Atomic Energy Agency's (IAEA) role in monitoring Iran's compliance with the deal -- suggesting no concrete action is likely until the inspectors' next report at the end of May. But there are tensions within the EU, with some countries under domestic pressure to take a tougher line on Tehran, particularly after Iranian intelligence was accused over assassination plots in France, Denmark and the Netherlands. Europe and Washington have been at loggerheads over how to deal with the Islamic republic since Trump took office. In recent days, the US deployed an aircraft carrier strike group to the Gulf -- raising military tensions alongside the diplomatic discord. - EU scrabbling - Trump hit back at Tehran's threats by tightening the economic screws further, slapping sanctions on the Iranian mining industry to add to swingeing measures on oil exports -- the country's main money-maker. "Tehran can expect further actions unless it fundamentally alters its conduct," Trump said in a statement. Since the US pullout, Europe has sought to keep Iran in the deal by trying to maintain trade via a special mechanism called INSTEX to clear payments without falling foul of American sanctions. The European statement reiterated its commitment to helping the Iranian people enjoy the benefit of sanctions relief, condemning the US reimposition. Europe is "determined to continue pursuing efforts to enable the continuation of legitimate trade with Iran" including through INSTEX. But their efforts have borne little fruit so far, with Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei dismissing them as a "bitter joke". - EU haggling - Macron and Germany Chancellor Angela Merkel will discuss Iran with their EU colleagues at Thursday's summit called originally to start the race for the top jobs in Brussels and sketch a future without Britain. The 27 national leaders are meeting just two weeks before European Parliament elections that could usher in a new wave of populists to haunt EU decision-making. The 28th head of government, Britain's Prime Minister Theresa May, will be absent as the others discuss a five-year strategy to reinvigorate the union and argue over who should lead it. The meeting will seek to agree a "Sibiu Declaration" -- a short document with 10 overarching commitments to reform in various areas, known tongue-in-cheek by some Brussels diplomats as the "10 Commandments" for the next EU Commission. North Korea fires missiles as US envoy visits Seoul Seoul, May 9 (AFP) May 09, 2019 North Korea welcomed a US envoy's visit to Seoul by firing two missiles Thursday, the South's military said, in Pyongyang's second launch in less than a week as it seeks to up the ante in deadlocked nuclear negotiations with Washington. It came after North Korea carried out a military drill and fired multiple projectiles on Saturday, with at least one believed to be a short-range missile. The North had not previously fired a missile since November 2017, shortly before a rapid diplomatic thaw eased high tensions on the peninsula and paved the way for a historic first meeting between its leader Kim Jong Un and US President Donald Trump. But their second summit in Vietnam in February broke up without an agreement rolling back Pyongyang's nuclear programme in exchange for sanctions relief or even a joint statement, leaving the North frustrated by the stalemate. Thursday's launch came hours after the US Special Representative on North Korea, Stephen Biegun, arrived in Seoul late Wednesday for talks with South Korean officials on the allies' approach towards Pyongyang, in his first visit since the Hanoi summit. The North "fired what appeared to be two short-range missiles", Seoul's Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) said in a statement, adding they flew eastwards for 270 and 420 kilometres (170 and 260 miles) and the South Korean and US militaries were jointly analysing them. It was a "deeply worrying" development, said a spokeswoman for the South's presidential office, "as it is not helping improvement of inter-Korean relations and efforts to ease military tensions". The JCS earlier said the launches appeared to originate from Sino-ri in North Pyongan province, 75 kilometres northwest of Pyongyang. One of the North's longest-running operational missile bases is in the area, which the Centre for Strategic & International Studies says houses a regiment-sized unit equipped with Nodong-1 medium-range ballistic missiles. Biegun met his South Korean counterpart Lee Do-hoon for breakfast on Thursday and is due to hold discussions with the South's foreign and unification ministers Friday as the security allies -- Washington stations 28,500 troops in the South to defend it from its neighbour -- work on their approach towards Pyongyang. With Thursday's launch, said Hong Min, a senior researcher at the state-run Korea Institute for National Unification, "North Korea is sending a clear message that it will not be satisfied with humanitarian aid" being considered by Seoul. "It is saying, 'We want security guarantees in return for the denuclearisation process'," he added. "Kim could have felt he needed to show a strong military posture to ease complaints following a joint South-US military drill last month." Harry Kazianis of the Centre for the National Interest added that the North had "once again chosen a course of action today that can only worsen already growing tensions. "Kim's goal, beyond ensuring his weapons programs are becoming more powerful, is quite clear: to show America and its allies that if they aren't willing to compromise on the terms of denuclearisation that Pyongyang will indeed go its own way." - 'Stop nonsense' - Pyongyang, Seoul and Washington had all refrained from explicitly calling Saturday's launch a missile -- the South used the term "projectile" -- which could jeopardise the ongoing diplomacy by violating UN Security Council resolutions as well as Kim's announcement of an end to long-range missile tests. But experts said at least one short-range missile was involved, with a report on the respected 38 North website suggesting that it was a "direct import" of a Russian-produced Iskander. "The debris generated by the launch in North Korea is a virtual match of a launch of Iskander conducted by Russia," it said. If North Korea imported Iskanders from Russia, the report added, "it has an existing capacity to deliver warheads to targets in South Korea with great precision". Pyongyang insisted earlier Thursday that Saturday's "routine drill" was conducted within its own waters and added the "flying objects" did not pose any threat to the US, South Korea and Japan. "The firing of the intermediate- and long-range missile and the ICBM was not involved in it," a spokesman for the North's delegation for military talks with the South said in a statement carried by the official Korean Central News Agency. He condemned Seoul's criticism of that launch, with KCNA's headline reading: "S. Korean military authorities urged to stop nonsense". A summit between South Korean President Moon Jae-in and the North's Kim a year ago was instrumental in lowering the temperature, but since the Hanoi summit the North has blamed Seoul for siding with Washington, leaving inter-Korean relations in limbo. Moon warns N. Korea launch 'could make negotiations more difficult' Seoul, May 9 (AFP) May 09, 2019 North Korea's launch of what appeared to be a short-range missile threatens to complicate nuclear negotiations with the United States, the South's President Moon Jae-in said Thursday. "Whatever North Korea's intentions might have been, we warn that it could make negotiations more difficult," he said in a television interview marking his first two years in office. Europe feels powerless as US faces off against Iran Brussels, May 9 (AFP) May 09, 2019 European powers find themselves powerless to head off a looming clash between the United States and Iran, with no influence over Donald Trump's Washington and fading credibility in Tehran. Publicly, EU capitals still support the 2015 Iran deal as the best mechanism to keep Tehran's nuclear ambitions in check while easing the sanctions that have crippled its oil-dependent economy. But as President Trump doubles down on his rejection of the accord and threatens more sanctions, and Tehran responds by threatening to resume some nuclear activity, diplomats are pessimistic. This week one European official in Brussels admitted to AFP that hopes of saving the deal are getting "weaker and weaker", after the latest EU-US diplomatic encounter laid bare the growing rift. "No negotiation is possible with the US administration on Iran, on climate, on the Nord Stream 2 pipeline, because President Trump refuses to change his positions," one diplomat said. This came after EU commissioner Miguel Arias Canete and US energy secretary Rick Perry failed to paper over their many differences at an uncomfortable press briefing. With the White House bent on confrontation, the only hope of saving the Iran deal-implementation mechanism, the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action or JCPOA, lies with Tehran. If Iran's Islamist government continues to honour its side of the accord, Europe will continue to seek ways to deepen economic ties. But efforts to set up a "special vehicle" to facilitate trade without exposing EU companies to US sanctions have yet to enable a single transaction, and Europe is losing credibility. Iran now warns it will restart heavy water production and some nuclear enrichment in 60 days if the Europeans, Russia and China are not able to offset the damage of renewed US sanctions. "For the moment, Iran's announcements are not a violation of nor an exit from the nuclear deal," one senior EU official told AFP, "but the situation is extremely worrying." On Thursday, Paris, Berlin, London and EU foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini issued a statement rejecting Iran's "ultimatum", but announcing no immediate new action of their own. Instead they appear to be awaiting a report at the end of May by the IAEA nuclear watchdog on whether or not Iran is in breach of its JCPOA promise to rein it its nuclear programme. "We don't impose sanctions on the basis of announcements, but the Iranians know perfectly well what they risk if they cross the line," the senior EU official warned. That line is not yet crossed. Iran currently holds 124 tonnes of heavy water, and is permitted 130 under the JCPOA. It has 163.8 kilos of enriched uranium, less than the deal's 202.8 kilo ceiling, according to the IAEA. Iran has also agreed not to enrich this uranium above the level of 3.67 percent, so if international inspectors are correct, it is still far from the threshold for making a weapon. Nevertheless, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani's announcement dismayed the Europeans as a needlessly provocative tactic, even if there is some sympathy for his domestic plight. - 'Viable economy' - "Rouhani is in a very difficult position for economic reasons," a European diplomat told AFP. Rouhani, who is not Iran's ultimate ruler but serves under Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, must demonstrate to regime hardliners that he is not standing idle while the accord unravels. So he was frustrated by what Tehran sees as the Europeans' failure to react when Trump put an end to waivers that allowed some countries to import Iranian crude without facing US sanctions. Iranian oil exports, which stood at around 1.5 million barrels per day last year, have fallen to 700,000, according to an EU source who warned this is "insufficient to maintain a viable economy". But even if Europe wanted to help, it is not a big enough client. European imports from Iran amounted to only 10 billion dollars in 2017, nine billion of that in energy supplies. Iran imported 10 billion in EU products. "The European Union never promised that it could itself compensate for the effect of US sanctions," an EU official said. "For oil, Iran needs to look to its main clients, India and China." And what of Europe's special vehicle, now known as INSTEX? This was set up by France, Germany and Britain to serve as a payment mechanism to allow Iran to trade with Europe without passing through US-controlled commerce in dollars. Iran is furious that the mechanism has yet to be put to use, but Europe insists that the fault lies with Tehran -- saying the Islamic republic has failed to set up a mirror-entity to control its side of trades. North Korea fires missiles as US envoy visits Seoul Seoul, May 9 (AFP) May 09, 2019 North Korea welcomed a US envoy's visit to Seoul by firing two missiles Thursday, the South's military said, in Pyongyang's second launch in less than a week as it seeks to up the ante in deadlocked nuclear negotiations with Washington. It came after North Korea carried out a military drill and fired multiple projectiles on Saturday, with at least one believed to be a short-range missile. The North had not previously fired a missile since November 2017, shortly before a rapid diplomatic thaw eased high tensions on the peninsula and paved the way for a historic first meeting between its leader Kim Jong Un and US President Donald Trump. But their second summit in Vietnam in February broke up without an agreement rolling back Pyongyang's nuclear programme in exchange for sanctions relief or even a joint statement, leaving the North frustrated. Thursday's launch came hours after the US Special Representative on North Korea, Stephen Biegun, arrived in Seoul late Wednesday for talks with South Korean officials, in his first visit since the Hanoi summit. South Korean President Moon Jae-in said Pyongyang's latest move had "an element of protest and is a pressuring action to steer the nuclear talks in a direction it desires". "It appears the North is highly displeased that the Hanoi summit ended without agreement," he said in an interview marking his first two years in office. But he added: "Whatever North Korea's intentions might have been, we warn that it could make negotiations more difficult." The North "fired what appeared to be two short-range missiles" from Kusong in North Pyongan province, Seoul's Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) said in a statement, updating its earlier assessment that the launch was from Sino-ri in the same province. The JCS added the missiles flew eastwards for 270 and 420 kilometres (170 and 260 miles) and the South Korean and US militaries were jointly analysing them. Biegun met his South Korean counterpart Lee Do-hoon for breakfast on Thursday and is due to hold discussions with the South's foreign and unification ministers Friday as the security allies -- Washington stations 28,500 troops in the South to defend it from its neighbour -- work on their approach towards Pyongyang. With Thursday's launch, said Hong Min, a senior researcher at the state-run Korea Institute for National Unification, "North Korea is sending a clear message that it will not be satisfied with humanitarian aid" being considered by Seoul. "It is saying, 'We want security guarantees in return for the denuclearisation process'," he added. "Kim could have felt he needed to show a strong military posture... following a joint South-US military drill last month." Harry Kazianis of the Centre for the National Interest added that the North had "once again chosen a course of action today that can only worsen already growing tensions. "Kim's goal, beyond ensuring his weapons programs are becoming more powerful, is quite clear: to show America and its allies that if they aren't willing to compromise on the terms of denuclearisation that Pyongyang will indeed go its own way." - 'Flying objects' - Pyongyang, Seoul and Washington had all refrained from explicitly calling Saturday's launch a missile -- the South used the term "projectile" -- which could jeopardise the ongoing diplomacy if it violated UN Security Council resolutions against ballistic technology as well as Kim's announcement of an end to long-range missile tests. If Thursday's launch proved to be a ballistic missile, Moon said, even if it was short-range, "it has a possibility of running foul of UN resolutions". Experts said at least one short-range ballistic missile was involved on Saturday, with a report on the respected 38 North website suggesting that it was a "direct import" of a Russian-produced Iskander. "The debris generated by the launch in North Korea is a virtual match of a launch of Iskander conducted by Russia," it said. If North Korea had imported Iskanders from Russia, the report added, "it has an existing capacity to deliver warheads to targets in South Korea with great precision". Pyongyang insisted earlier Thursday that Saturday's "routine drill" was conducted within its own waters and added the "flying objects" did not pose any threat to the US, South Korea and Japan. "The firing of the intermediate- and long-range missile and the ICBM was not involved in it," a spokesman for the North's delegation for military talks with the South said in a statement carried by the official Korean Central News Agency, condemning Seoul's criticism. A summit between Moon and Kim a year ago was instrumental in lowering the temperature, but since the Hanoi summit the North has blamed Seoul for siding with Washington, leaving inter-Korean relations in limbo. Macron defends Saudi arms sales with new shipment in focus Sibiu, Romania, May 9 (AFP) May 09, 2019 French President Emmanuel Macron defended his country's arms sales to Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates on Thursday as campaigners focused attention on a new shipment set to leave from the northern port of Le Havre. Human rights groups have regularly denounced France for continuing to supply the Gulf states despite allegations of war crimes and civilian deaths during their military operations in neighbouring Yemen. "Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates are allies of France and allies in the fight against terrorism. We accept responsibility for that," Macron told reporters when asked about the arms sales. Speaking as he arrived for a meeting of EU leaders in Romania, Macron said that arms exports were overseen by a government committee that had demanded guarantees that the weapons would not be used against civilians. "We received that," he added. Macron has faced mounting pressure from critics in France over the deliveries, particularly after a recent leaked intelligence report showed that French weapons were being widely used in the Yemen conflict. Leftwing lawmakers stormed out of parliament on Tuesday in protest after Genevieve Darrieussecq, secretary of state for the armed forces, said there was "no proof these weapons are being used against civilian populations". The conflict in Yemen has lasted more than four years and killed tens of thousands of people, many of them civilians, relief agencies say. The fighting has triggered what the United Nations describes as the world's worst humanitarian crisis, with 3.3 million people still displaced and 24.1 million -- more than two-thirds of the population -- in need of aid. For the past week, NGOs such as the Campaign Against Arms Trade and Human Rights Watch have tracked the movements of a Saudi cargo ship that has travelled between Belgium, Britain and France. French Defence Minister Florence Parly confirmed Wednesday that French weapons would be loaded onto the ship, the Bahri Yanbu, when it docks at the French port of Le Havre. It was anchored around 30 kilometres (18 miles) from the port on the Channel coast on Thursday afternoon, tracking website MarineTraffic showed. The French campaign group Christian Action for the Abolition of Torture (ACAT) filed a suit in a Paris court on Thursday seeking to prevent the ship from loading its cargo. The group is seeking to use a 2014 international treaty regulating the arms trade which stipulates that signatory countries should not export weapons if they know they might be used to commit war crimes. "It is entirely true that for several years -- at its height, five or six years ago in contracts that were signed at that time -- France has sold weapons to the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia," Macron added on Thursday. "The majority of these weapons that were sold have been used inside their territories or at the border," he added. "But I want to be clear: we need to be with our allies in these difficult times and the war against terrorism is a priority for us." US aircraft carrier passes Suez Canal on Iran deployment Cairo, May 9 (AFP) May 09, 2019 American aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln passed through the Suez Canal Thursday, Egyptian authorities said, as a US strike group heads towards the Gulf amid rising tensions between Washington and Tehran. US President Donald Trump's national security advisor John Bolton on Sunday announced the deployment of an aircraft strike group and bomber task force in a "clear and unmistakable" message to Iran that it would respond to any attack on the US or its allies. To reach the Gulf, the carrier must pass through the strategically vital Suez Canal which connects the Mediterranean Sea to the Red Sea. General Ralph Groover, the US defence attache in Cairo, commended Egyptian authorities for ensuring the vessel's "complete safety" during its passage, according to a statement from the canal's Port Authority. A senior official from the authority, who preferred to remain anonymous, confirmed to AFP that the carrier had passed through the canal "smoothly". "We have nothing to do with (its) political dimensions," he said. In his announcement Sunday, Bolton stopped short of saying Washington planned to enter into a direct conflict with Tehran. But the deployment comes amid increasingly belligerent rhetoric following Washington's withdrawal last year from the multi-party 2015 deal over Iran's nuclear programme. In recent weeks, Trump's administration has re-imposed stringent sanctions on Iran and blacklisted the Iranian Revolutionary Guards Corps as a terrorist group. In response, Tehran said it would stop abiding by parts of the nuclear agreement. Iran on Monday dismissed the naval deployment as "old news", saying Iranian forces had seen the vessel enter the Mediterranean three weeks earlier. The USS Abraham Lincoln has been deployed to the Gulf on previous occasions, including during the 2003 US-led invasion of Iraq. Venezuelan opposition deputy takes refuge with Argentine ambassador Caracas, May 9 (AFP) May 09, 2019 A Venezuelan lawmaker who backed a failed opposition uprising against the government said Thursday that he had taken refuge in the Argentine ambassador's residence. Richard Blanco, one of 10 National Assembly lawmakers charged with treason for supporting opposition chief Juan Guaido's call for a popular uprising on April 30, sought sanctuary hours after Guaido's own right-hand man was arrested. "I am here temporarily, in the residence of the ambassador," Blanco told VPI television the day after secret police agents detained Edgar Zambrano, the deputy leader of the National Assembly who had served directly under Guaido, the speaker of the opposition-led body. The Supreme Court, accused by the opposition of doing socialist President Nicolas Maduro's bidding, charged him and nine other opposition MPs with treason, conspiracy and civil rebellion for their support of Guaido's bid to incite an uprising against the government. The Constituent Assembly, a body set up by Maduro to outflank the opposition-led National Assembly, followed up by stripping seven of the deputies of their parliamentary immunity. "I came here to sleep because my life was in danger," said Blanco. Another of the deputies to be charged, Mariela Magallanes, took refuge Wednesday in the residence of the Italian ambassador in Caracas. The Constituent Assembly had already lifted Guaido's immunity in April, accusing him of trying to "usurp" the presidency. Guaido, who declared himself interim president in January and gained recognition from some 50 countries, has himself dubbed Maduro a "usurper" for allegedly rigging last year's presidential elections. Set up in 2017, the Constituent Assembly is made up entirely of supporters of the socialist president. Following Zambrano's arrest on Wednesday, Guaido accused the regime of "kidnapping" his deputy and said: "They are trying to destroy the power representing all Venezuelans, but they will not achieve it." Russia condemns new US sanctions on Iran, urges talks Moscow, May 9 (AFP) May 09, 2019 Russia on Thursday denounced new US sanctions on Iran's mining industry and called for talks to preserve the nuclear deal with Tehran. "The United States has just introduced a new package of sanctions affecting the mining industry in Iran. We strongly condemn this step," the foreign ministry said in a statement. Because of the "seriousness of what is happening," Iran and world powers should meet "to determine ways to normalise the situation," the ministry said. Moscow said it understood why Iran, in the face of US sanctions, had decided to suspend some of its commitments under the deal. But it urged Tehran to "refrain from further steps to curtail the fulfilment of its obligations", while calling on other partners in the deal to meet their promises. Among the steps that needed to be taken, it said, were moves to facilitate financial transactions and to continue trade and economic cooperation. "We urge everyone not to cut off economic ties, including the purchase of Iranian products, first of all energy." Europe rejects Iran 'ultimatum' but stands by nuke deal Sibiu, Romania, May 9 (AFP) May 09, 2019 European powers Thursday denounced Tehran's threat to resume nuclear work, drawing a sharp response from the Iranian foreign minister who accused them of caving in to US bullying. The three European signatories to the 2015 Iran nuclear deal urged the Islamic republic to stick to its commitments after it said it would stop respecting some limits imposed by the agreement. And they rejected an ultimatum from President Hassan Rouhani, who threatened to go further if they fail to deliver sanctions relief to counterbalance US President Donald Trump's renewed assault on the Iranian economy within 60 days. EU diplomatic chief Federica Mogherini and France, Germany and Britain -- the three European signatories to the deal -- voiced "great concern" at President Hassan Rouhani's dramatic intervention. "We strongly urge Iran to continue to implement its commitments under the JCPOA in full as it has done until now and to refrain from any escalatory steps," they said in a joint statement, referring to the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action as the deal is known. "We reject any ultimatums and we will assess Iran's compliance on the basis of Iran's performance regarding its nuclear-related commitments under the JCPOA." Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif hit back on Twitter, scornfully dismissing the European communique. "EU statement today is why JCPOA is where it is: the US has bullied Europe -- and rest of world -- for a year and EU can only express 'regret'," Zarif tweeted. "Instead of demanding that Iran unilaterally abide by a multilateral accord, EU should uphold obligations," he said, calling for the "normalization of economic ties." Tehran says its announcement on Wednesday was a response to unilateral US sanctions -- imposed since Trump ripped up what he called a "horrible" deal -- which have dealt a severe blow to the Iranian economy. Europe has stressed the importance of the deal -- in which Iran agreed to curb its nuclear ambitions in return for sanctions relief -- for its own security, and EU leaders discussed the crisis at their summit in the Romanian town of Sibiu. Russia, another signatory to the deal along with China, on Thursday denounced new US sanctions on Iran's mining industry and called for talks to preserve the deal. Moscow said it understood why Iran had decided to suspend some of its commitments under the deal in the face of US sanctions but urged Tehran not to go further. French President Emmanuel Macron appealed for calm, saying Europe must work to convince Iran to stick with the deal. "We must not get jumpy or fall into escalation," Macron said, warning that leaving the deal would "unstitch what we have achieved". "That's why France is staying in, and will stay in and I profoundly hope Iran will stay in," Macron said as he arrived for an EU summit in Romania. The EU statement stressed the International Atomic Energy Agency's (IAEA) role in monitoring Iran's compliance with the deal -- suggesting no concrete action is likely until the inspectors' next report at the end of May. Mogherini said she had "a lot of concern" about this week's developments but stressed that Iran was so far still "fully compliant" with the deal. But there are tensions within the EU, with some countries under domestic pressure to take a tougher line on Tehran, particularly after Iranian intelligence was accused of mounting assassination plots in France, Denmark and the Netherlands. Europe and Washington have been at loggerheads over how to deal with the Islamic republic since Trump took office. In recent days, the US deployed an aircraft carrier strike group to the Gulf -- raising military tensions alongside the diplomatic discord. - EU scrabbling - Trump hit back at Tehran's threats by slapping sanctions on the Iranian mining industry to add to swingeing measures on oil exports -- the country's main money-maker. "Tehran can expect further actions unless it fundamentally alters its conduct," Trump said in a statement. Since the US pullout, Europe has sought to keep Iran in the deal by trying to maintain trade via a special mechanism called INSTEX to clear payments without falling foul of American sanctions. The European statement reiterated its commitment to helping the Iranian people enjoy the benefit of sanctions relief, condemning the US reimposition. Europe is "determined to continue pursuing efforts to enable the continuation of legitimate trade with Iran" including through INSTEX. But their efforts have borne little fruit so far, with Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei dismissing them as a "bitter joke". Italian navy ship rescues 36 migrants off Libya Rome, May 9 (AFP) May 09, 2019 The Italian navy said Thursday one of its ships had rescued 36 migrants in international waters off Libya, raising the likelihood of a new stand-off over which port will take them in. The Cigala Fulgosi patrol vessel picked up the group from a makeshift craft around 75 nautical miles off the Libyan coast as part of Italy's "Mare Sicuro" ("Safe Seas") operation, the navy said. A navy statement said those on board, including two women and eight minors, were in "mortal danger" as their vessel had taken on water, adding they had been rescued "in line with Italian and international law." Hard right Interior Minister Matteo Salvini, currently campaigning for looming EU elections, had beforehand warned he would not allow the migrants to be disembarked in Italy. Italy's government has taken an increasingly hard line on migration, and Salvini, head of the anti-immigrant League party, last month signed a new directive against charity vessels rescuing migrants off Libya. Charity ships have drawn fire from Rome by attempting on occasion to stop migrants being taken back to crisis-hit Libya, which human rights organisations say is not safe for repatriations. Amid Italian concerns that recent violence in Libya will spark an exodus of people determined to seek safety in Europe, Salvini has warned Italian ports are closed to those attempting perilous Mediterranean crossings. Last August, dozens of migrants aboard the Italian coastguard vessel Diciotti were stranded in a Sicilian port before Salvini allowed them to disembark saying several bishops had agreed to take them in. An accord was reached with the Catholic Church to have Ireland and Albania take some of them in. Salvini faced a judicial investigation into his role in the initial stand-off but the Italian senate blocked a criminal case against him. "I don't have a port available for them to disembark," Salvini told reporters Thursday on the sidelines of a campaign meeting. "I am minister to defend borders, block traffickers, expel illegals and protect Italians." The UN High Commissioner for Refugees and the International Organization for Migration meanwhile urged "international solidarity" to be shown to the 36 migrants, adding that returning the group to Libya in its current volatile state would violate international law. Trump says studying N.Korea launches 'very seriously' Washington, May 9 (AFP) May 09, 2019 President Donald Trump said Thursday he is studying the situation in North Korea "very seriously," after Pyongyang welcomed a US envoy's visit to Seoul by firing two missiles. "We're looking at it very seriously right now. They were smaller missiles, short range missiles -- nobody's happy about it," Trump told reporters. "The relationship continues -- but we'll see what happens," Trump added. "I know they want to negotiate, they're talking about negotiating, but I don't think they are ready to negotiate." At least 8 dead in Baghdad suicide bombing: security official Baghdad, May 9 (AFP) May 09, 2019 At least eight people were killed and 15 wounded in a suicide bombing at a market in eastern Baghdad on Thursday, a security official said. "A suicide bomber wearing an explosive belt blew himself up close to stalls at the crowded Jamila market," said the senior police officer, who asked not to be named. There was no immediate claim of responsibility. A medical source confirmed that the nearby Al-Kindi hospital had received eight bodies. The attack took place at around 9.00 PM (1800 GMT), at a time when many Iraqis have broken their Ramadan fast and take to the streets. Devastated by years of conflict, Iraq in 2017 declared victory over Islamic State jihadists after a gruelling months-long campaign to dismantle their self-declared "caliphate". But sleeper cells have remained active, attacking civilians and security forces across the country. Explosions in several Shiite-majority districts in Iraq's capital in November killed six people, most of them civilians. A twin suicide bombing in Baghdad in January last year killed 31 people, the second such attack in three days. US seizes N.Korea freighter accused of violating sanctions New York, May 9 (AFP) May 09, 2019 The United States on Thursday announced the seizure of a North Korean cargo ship for violating international sanctions, boosting pressure on Pyongyang as nuclear negotiations have stalled. The US Justice Department said it took possession of the North Korea-registered bulk carrier M/V Wise Honest one year after it was detained in Indonesia. It said the vessel's owner, the Korea Songi Shipping Company, had used it to illicitly export coal and import heavy machine, and paid for maintenance and equipment using US dollars in violation of US and international sanctions on North Korea. It was the first time a North Korean cargo vessel had been seized for sanctions violation, after several years of high seas cat-and-mouse games in which Korean shippers disguised vessels, used false flags and turned off their tracking transponders to avoid discovery. The announcement came as tensions rose over Pyongyang's test launch early Thursday of two suspected short-range missiles, the second such move in a week. "Our office uncovered North Korea's scheme to export tons of high-grade coal to foreign buyers by concealing the origin of their ship, the Wise Honest," US attorney Geoffrey Berman said in a statement. "With this seizure, we have significantly disrupted that cycle. We are willing and able to deploy the full array of law enforcement tools to detect, deter and prosecute North Korea's deceptive attempts to evade sanctions," he said. The United States and the United Nations have led efforts to bring economic pressure on North Korea to curtail its nuclear weapons and long-range missile development programs. Sanctions have targeted the country's economic lifelines by banning its exports of raw materials like coal and iron, labor and some farm goods, and limiting its imports of oil and other fuels. In addition, US sanctions have aimed to lock the country out of the international banking system by preventing banks with US arms from dealing with North Korean businesses. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has met with President Donald Trump twice since last year to discuss reeling in North Korea's nuclear program in exchange for removing sanctions, but the two sides are at an impasse. - Ship first detained by Indonesia - The 17,000 tonne Wise Honest, built in 1989, was detained by Indonesian authorities on April 2, 2018, more than two months before Trump and Kim held their first ice-breaking summit in Singapore. Loaded down with a $3 million shipment of North Korean coal, the vessel had entered Indonesian waters with its AIS tracking transponder turned off and was operating under two registrations, North Korea and Sierra Leone. The transponder, officials said, in fact had not been on since August 2017. The captain was arrested and charged with "knowingly hoisting a false flag," according to UN Security Council documents. Based on the illicit shipping effort and financing of transactions related to the ship that were put through US banks, a US judge issued a warrant to seize the vessel on July 17, 2018. Officials announced the seizure Thursday as the vessel was close to entering US territorial waters. "This sanctions-busting ship is now out of service," said Assistant Attorney General John Demers in a statement. "North Korea, and the companies that help it evade US and UN sanctions, should know that we will use all tools at our disposal -- including a civil forfeiture action such as this one or criminal charges -- to enforce the sanctions." Shanahan: Trump chooses a business manager for defense chief Washington, May 9 (AFP) May 09, 2019 After two years of the battle-hardened and wizened Jim Mattis, President Donald Trump has chosen a flexible business manager to lead the Pentagon and support his anti-immigrant border operations: Patrick Shanahan. The White House announced Trump's intention to nominate Shanahan on Thursday, after the veteran Boeing engineer spent more than four months as acting secretary of defense -- proving himself to a president who found Mattis, a former marine four-star general, too independent. His nomination still requires confirmation from the Senate, where his predecessor enjoyed strong support as a crucial check against Trump's most extreme ideas and where there could be doubts about Shanahan's lack of soldiering experience. But Shanahan, 56, will benefit from having been Mattis's own pick in 2017 to be deputy secretary of defense, overseeing the management of the massive US military. - Boeing executive - Before joining the Pentagon, Shanahan spent 30 years at Boeing, where he earned the nickname Mr Fix-It for having put the problem-saddled Dreamliner program back on the tracks. Mattis tapped Shanahan to bring his management skills to modernize the Pentagon's procedures for its trillion-dollar acquisition program. But Shanahan quickly drew criticism that he violated Defense Department ethics rules with his support for Boeing as a supplier while denigrating its competitors, notably aerospace company Lockheed Martin, the builder of the F-35 joint strike fighter. After he was cleared of those allegations two weeks ago, the way was open for Trump's nomination. Still, the discreet divorced father of three will have a tough job following Mattis, whose deep experience as a battlefield commander and encyclopedic knowledge of military history and strategy awed soldiers in the field. Mattis resigned in December when Trump abruptly announced he was pulling the US out of Syria, and slashing its troop numbers in Afghanistan. Both moves, Mattis believed, were strategically bad and he stepped down, saying Trump needed a defense chief whose views were better aligned. Since taking the position on January 1, Shanahan has mostly stayed out of the public eye and avoided clashing with the White House. He has never served in the military and is more at home with finances than armed conflict. Reacting to Trump's decision to nominate him, he said he was "honored." "If confirmed by the Senate, I will continue the aggressive implementation of our National Defense Strategy." "I remain committed to modernizing the force so our remarkable soldiers, sailors, airmen, and marines have everything they need to keep our military lethal and our country safe." Shanahan rarely speaks publicly, has yet to hold a formal press conference, and has only traveled abroad once, in February, on a trip to visit US troops in Kabul and Baghdad. That same trip took him to international meetings in Brussels and Munich, where he appeared somewhat uneasy, given the widespread criticism of Trump's policies. - Trump 'likes him' - Shanahan has since taken great care to not rub the president the wrong way, and so far it appears to have paid off. "I can tell you that the president has a great deal of respect for Acting Defense Secretary Shanahan. He likes him," said White House spokeswoman Sarah Sanders recently. He has gone along with Trump's demand for more Pentagon resources to help police the US border with Mexico and to divert billions of dollars from the Defense Department's budget to finance building a wall on the frontier. Yet that put Shanahan in the line of fire in Congress, where legislators are none too happy about the diversion of Pentagon funds for the wall, which could impact other already-planned military construction projects. Quizzed by Congress on whether the diversion will harm military activities, he said: "Military construction on the border will not come at the expense of our people, our readiness, or our modernization. " Optimization Are you frustrated with a slow pc or a hard disk not performing as it should? Try SLOW-PCfighter to speed up boot time on a slow PC, or try a free scan of FULL-DISKfighter to recover space on a full disk. The latest offering is DRIVERfighter to update your driver updater. Get complete PC optimization and extend the life of your PC with these must-have software tools. by Dr SLM Rifai Views expressed in this article are the authors own Recently some Sri Lankan media has been allegedly spreading some rumours and lies about Batticaloa campus. I do not have any personal or political affiliation with Dr Hizbullah: Governor of Eastern province. Neither I have met him, nor I have spoken to him. I do not know about his political ambition or about his political manipulation at all. Yet, I personally welcome this Batticaloa campus project in a greater interest of Sri Lanka. I will substantiate my argument with logical and rational reasoning. Dr Hizbullah may live another 30 or 40 years in this world and yet, this campus if it is well established, will have a long life to serve entire Sri Lankan student communities for many centuries to come. Please do not look at this project from a personal perspective. Rather look at this institution from a national perspective. He has not established this institution of higher education for his personal interest or for the personal interest of Muslim community alone. It is established with a prime aim of serving entire Sri Lankan student communities: This includes Sinhalese, Tamil, Malay and Muslim student communities. It is not an exclusive Muslim institution as it is claimed by some media. It is a non-governmental private institute that has been established with the approval of education ministry in Sri Lanka. The previous government must have given a green light and approval to establish this government. Without such an approval Dr Hizbullah would not have been able to continue this project. He has done this for the greater interest of the entire Sri Lankan people. The inauguration ceremony, then the Minister of Rajapaksa Administration, Mr Alahapperuma was one of the guests Now, consider how much money has gone into this project. It is reported that more than 2000 million Rupees has been so far spent on this campus for its different buildings and infrastructure. Dr Hizbullah managed to get this money (interest free loan) from a Saudi businessman, using all his personal and political influence. He did not do this for his personal interest. He might have 5% personal interest on it as someone who has initiated it and yet, he did this for the greater interest of this country out of his love to this nation. He did it for the people of Sri Lanka, and for the future generations of Sri Lankan student communities. We all know that more than 80% of A/L students do not get any opportunities to continue their higher education in Sri Lanka. Because, our budget for higher education is not enough to provide free education to all A/L students. We have been wasting our human potentiality and credential for many years now. At this modern age of acritical intelligence and digital technology, Sri Lankan must expand it higher education sector sooner than later. All other countries in subcontinents are investing a greater amount of money for education. Yet, we are fighting when someone want to invest in Sri Lanka for higher education. We live in this competitive world of human skills. The wealth of nations is gauged today with quality of human skills and knowledge. It is a duty and responsibility of Sri Lankan government to support our student communities to enhance and develop their human potentialities and skills. We are living in this modern world of knowledge-based economies. Dr Hizbullah out of his inquisitiveness and love for education, he initiated this project. What is wrong with it? why does not Sri Lankan government encourage it? why do some people want to make politics out of it? I challenge any Tamil or Sinhalese politicians if they could bring such a huge amount of money to Sri Lanka interest freely to initiate such a massive project. Why do we read this project from a communal and racial line? Why do not we consider this project as a national wealth to support our future generations. I too have some doubt about the location of this campus. Id prefer the establishment of such a campus in a big city in Sri Lanka not in a remote area. It would have been far better if he had chosen some good local in an upcountry site to attract more students. I do not like dry zone for such a campus. Demonstrating the plan of the university for those who funded the throiugh Hira Foundation Im dismayed to know that some professors who initially agreed to develop this campus have submitted their letters of resignation out of fear and intimidation. What a pathetic situation is this? What is wrong with people of Sri Lanka today. Everything has been communalised. Unfortunately, our Sri Lankan communities are living in water-tight compartments. Even education has been seen from a communal perspective. Now, some Sinhalese professors are reluctant to develop this university, because it was initiated by a Muslim MP. It is reported that the site and location to our first Sri Lankan university was identified by a Muslim intellectual in those days, I wonder how those Sinhalese intellectuals could accept a Muslim proposal in those days and yet, today some Sinhalese professors are reluctant to develop this campus. Because it is proposed by a Muslim MP. This discriminative and prejudicial attitude to Education in Sri Lanka is not good at all. If something good comes from anyone or from anywhere we must have big hearts to accept it. Many accusations and allegations are spread about this campus by many Sri Lankan media. Some of them have been deliberately done to misguide people. Some of these allegations are made for some pollical reasons. Most of these allegations are baseless allegations. Dr Hizbullah has given enough clarification about those allegations. How pathetic are Sri Lankan media to twist facts in Sri Lanka? Hizbullah explaining the project I think all these allegations are made in the backdrop of Easter Sunday attack by some radical Muslim youths. We condemn those attacks. There is no connection between Islam and these attacks. Those who did this crime are not true Muslims. Please do not try to make any connection between these attacks and the establishment of this campus. We are passing through one of toughest times in Sri Lankan history. Sri Lanka badly needs the support of all communities to develop Sri Lankan national identity. We may have different cultural identities and yet, we all are born and brought up in Sri Lanka. We all have a Lankan national identity. we ought to develop this national sentiment among us as Sri Lankans. It is our duty to support the national building process of Sri Lanka. All this communal unrest will put our economy to decline and end of the day, each Sri Lankan will have to pay the price for this unrest financially. So, it would be wise to learn to live in peace in Sri Lanka. We believe that the United States should have good relations with all countries but they should have not attachment to said countries by Anwar A Khan The language coming from the Trump administration is that of straight-up regime change. Senator Marco Rubio is crafting Latin America policy for the White House, with John Bolton screaming Troika of Tyranny at the top of his lungs. Not that we should have expected anything less. It is an operetta to damned Guaido for pushing the envelope in Venezuela. If you were a no-name politician in the Venezuelan legislature, only to become a household name in less than a year, you might also have a sense of invincibility, as I have heard. And if you had the senior-most officials of the worlds most powerful country rooting you on and throwing down sanctions on your mortal enemy, well, thats even more reason to keep screaming into the bullhorn. Guaido is in no mood to capitulate to Maduro. Surrounded by disaffected members of the Venezuelan army near the La Carlota base in Caracas, the opposition leader has pledged to continue the fight and urged Venezuelas senior officers and rank-and-file troops to choose the constitution over Maduro. People of Venezuela, Guaido said, we will go to the street with the armed forces to continue taking the streets until we consolidate the end of usurpation, which is already irreversible. A dullards ranting! Back in Washington, Vice President Mike Pence, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, National Security Adviser Bolton, and Senator Rubio all seconded the motion. Estamos con ustedes! Pence tweeted. We are with you! America will stand with you until freedom and democracies are restored. Other pudding heads raving! Bolton, speaking in a rare press conference outside the White House, stated that a post-Maduro future for Venezuela was on the minds of US officials. We have been planning for what we call the day afterthe day after Madurofor quite some time, he told reporters. Its been very much on our mind that we can provide a lot of assistance to the Guaido government when he assumes power to try to get the Venezuelan out of the ditch that Maduro has put it in, as he is a cruddyblackguard. In the end, we do not know where Venezuelas political crisis is heading. The possibilities are endless. As it stands now, the country is in a holding pattern, with Guaido trying his best to incite a rebellion from within the ranks of the army but Maduro thus far keeping control of his men. The vast majority of the army remains on the side of Maduro, perhaps out of fear for their lives or concerns about instigating a civil war. All this could end with Maduro making the decision to vacate his chair and search for asylum, though that is highly unlikely unless his supporters in the military push him out. Alternatively, there could be a split in the Venezuelan armed forces between pro- and anti-Maduro factions, which would precipitate a civil war and result in more refugees and an even direr economic catastrophe. Venezuelas neighbours could conceivably step up and organise a Latin American coalition of the willing, although this too is far-fetched, given the political capital such a campaign would require and the popular opposition it would create. Or, in a far more likely scenario, Venezuela could go through a slow burn for months or even years. But it is because of American establishment. But whatever comes to pass, the United States should check its regime change impulses at the door. The propensity in Washington on both sides of the aisle to take ownership of the Venezuela problem and fix it with an American-imposed solution must be tamped down in favour of the prudence and restraint so often thrown by the wayside. Dictation should no longerprescribe policy. All of us would like to see democracy sprout up in Venezuela like the cherry blossoms along the Jefferson Memorial Tidal Basin. Perhaps someday, these hopes will turn into reality. But hope is not a strategy. And neither is regime changea policy that is likely to cause as many problems as it solves. US policymakers need to understand that it is the Venezuelan people who must be their societys people of change. There is no way we can impose peace on those countries without getting our own hands dirty. It is almost impossible to force people to be free or to impose sweetness and light on a part of the world that has known nothing but brutality and death. Oil and lucrative contracts for US private defence companies are the primal objectives. The Military Industrial Complex needs to keep its wheels oiled (literally and figuratively) and therefore, the USA invents a new war every few years in order to keep the powerful private defence contractors well paid and to make sure the oil flows. I think most Americans and people all over the world; I know wish American politicians would stop being the world policeman. I mean even George Washington said that America should stay neutral and mind their own business. But we may cite a few examples further: American atomic weapons were first used in combat against Japan during World War II. The Reagan administration sent American troops to overturn a Marxist coup in Grenada. We know the roughshod role played by the US administration in the 1971 Bangladesh-Pakistan war siding with the vicious Pakistani war mongers which resulted in large part as a result of India's support for the independence of Bangladesh. The Ford administration authorised the CIA to launch a large scale covert operation in Angola in an attempt to prevent a Marxist government from coming to power. The Nixon administration expanded the Vietnam War into Cambodia and Laos. Even Americas CIA was allegedly involved in the cruel murder of our nations Founding Father Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman along with his most of the family members in 1975. Whereas American administrations main principle should be that of non-intervention and non-interference in the domestic affairs of other independent and sovereign states across the world. It also should reinforce the idea that the United States would be a good neighbour and engage in reciprocal exchanges with other countries. When all is said and done and the history of this effort is examined, one will see that we who have sought justice and also have sought to repair historic wrongs being done by America for more than seven decades. In repairing this wrong, we use the storehouse of history to feed our arsenal. What we find in that storehouse is simply the truth, and as the saying goes, the truth shall set you free someday. We believe that the United States should have good relations with all countries but they should have not attachment to said countries. They believe that attachment to other countries would draw them into a war that they have no common interest being involved in. Antipathies also lead to more frequent collisions and conflicts which is what the US should not want. Becoming friends with a stronger nation meant the weaker nation would become a satellite for the stronger one. In this case, the US would be the weaker country and therefore, the satellite. Promote trade and a commercial relationship but keep political connection at a minimum. John Adams (October 30, 1735 [a] July 4, 1826) was an American statesman, attorney, diplomat, writer, and one of the Founding Fathers who served as the second president of the United States from 1797 to 1801. We recall Adams who said that the US greatest contribution to the world was her "honest friendship equal freedom and generous reciprocity" He also says,America respects the freedom and independence of other countries. He also says America will give moral support and prayers to any friend of the US who has their rights or liberties threatened. He says America should not get involved in other countries' affairs. He was concerned that if the US got involved in these affairs the US would become sort of a dictates to the rest of the world which is bad for America. It is tragic that American nation has invaded or is invading another sovereign nationunabatedly because the intelligence and facts are being fixed around the US policy, as stated in the Downing Street Minutes. It is equally tragic that the US Administration has been unwilling to examine these facts or take action to prevent this scenario from occurring again. Since they appear unwilling to act, it is incumbent on individual American Members of Congress as well as the American public to act to protect their constitutional form of government. However, in the end, these investigations at least will provide a measure of justice and historical rectification reflecting the truth about the times. It is also leavened thatthe United States power is inherently not only false, but also dangerous. -The End The writer is a senior citizen, writes on politics, political and human-centred figures, current and international affairs. Wildfire Cripples FEBC Radio Station in South Korea Gospel Broadcaster to Restore and Rebuild Fire-Ravaged Station near North Korea Border Fire has crippled FEBC's gospel radio station in South Korea, prompting an urgent appeal at www.febc.org to help Korean broadcasters rebuild and restore the station as soon as possible. NEWS PROVIDED BYMay 9, 2019LA MIRADA, Calif., May 9, 2019 / Standard Newswire / -- Koreans are struggling to receive Christian radio broadcasts after a wildfire severely crippled a radio station near the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) with North Korea.Gospel broadcaster FEBC (Far East Broadcasting Company) has launched a campaign on its website ( www.febc.org ) to rebuild the radio station burned by a wildfire last month.The FEBC-Yeongdong radio station and broadcasting studio, located in Sokcho City, with the capability to reach many Koreans with the gospel on both sides of the border, was severely damaged by the blaze."It's critical that we restore broadcasts and rebuild the studio to reach Koreans who have no other way to hear the 'good news' and to give hope and comfort to believers who lost homes and livelihoods in the fire," said a ministry spokesperson in South Korea.According to FEBC workers in South Korea, the first and second floors were completely burned, the third and fourth floors were covered by smoke and dust, and all equipment was damaged and needs to be replaced. FEBC pledged to start rebuilding the station as soon as possible.The four-story station is a crucial broadcasting hub strategically located in the northeast corner of South Korea, close to the North Korea border, with the potential to beam Christian programming to North Koreans in the "hermit kingdom" who've never heard the Good News.The wildfire wiped out homes and businesses, and destroyed everything in the FEBC station except sheet music for worship songs that miraculously remained unburned. No one at the radio station was injured in the blaze."This is a massive setback for our gospel broadcasting in this pivotal region where many Koreans depend on our radio programs to hear about Jesus and the amazing story of salvation," said Ed Cannon, president of FEBC. "By God's provision, we are determined to rebuild and restore bigger and better from the ashes, and believe God has an exciting future for both North and South Korea."FEBC's plans include saturating North Korea with Christian programming in the Korean language.For almost 75 years, FEBC has beamed the gospel into nations officially closed to Christian missionaries, proving that the "good news" can cross any border."We've seen that when our broadcasts get into closed countries; hope and joy floods in," said Cannon.Nearly half the world's population lives in range of FEBC broadcasts. Over the next 10 years, the ministry aims to reach millions of people in difficult-to-access areas through mobile and online technology including social media with gospel content in their own language.Launched in 1945 under the banner "Christ to the World by Radio," FEBC aired its first radio broadcast in China. Constantly innovating, the ministry pioneered the use of "portable missionaries" hand-held radio sets pre-tuned to gospel broadcasts.About FEBCFEBC (Far East Broadcasting Company, www.febc.org ) was founded in 1945 to share the gospel in China. Today, more than 900 staff and 1,800 volunteers produce 842 hours of programming each day, broadcasting across Asia, Russia, Ukraine, the Middle East and Africa. Programs in 124 languages air from 265 stations.SOURCE Far East Broadcasting CompanyCONTACT: Gregg Wooding, 972-567-7660, gwooding@inchristcommunications.com Related Links New data from these statistics will be published on the home page of the Students and qualifications. Published: 9 May 2019 Women completed nearly 60 per cent of all university degrees in 2018 Corrected on 29 October 2019. The corrections are indicated in red. According to Statistics Finland's Education Statistics, around 30,800 university degrees were completed in 2018, which is just under 250 fewer than in the previous year. For the third successive year, the number of lower university degrees decreased, by three per cent year-on-year. By contrast, slightly more higher university degrees and doctorate degrees were completed than in the year before. Women's share of all those who had completed a university degree was 58 per cent and 51 per cent of those who had completed a doctorate degree. Women's share of all completed university degrees 20012018, per cent Foreigners completed 25 per cent of doctorate degrees (corrected on 29 October) In 2018, around 13,600 lower university degrees, slightly under 15,300 higher university degrees, 75 licentiate degrees and around 1,800 doctorate degrees were completed. Most students graduated in the field of business, administration and law, where close on 18 per cent of all degrees were completed. Good 15 per cent of degrees were completed in arts and humanities and close on 14 per cent in both social sciences and engineering, manufacturing and construction. Most doctorate degrees were completed in the fields of health and welfare, around 23 per cent of all doctorate degrees, and in engineering, manufacturing and construction, where around one-fifth of all completed doctorate degrees were completed. Around 8 per cent degree was attained by foreign students, the figure being 12 per cent for higher university degrees and 25 per cent for doctorate degrees. Foreign students completed most degrees in relative terms in the field of information and communication technologies, 20 per cent of all university degrees in this field. The share of doctorate degrees completed by foreigners was highest in the fields of natural science, mathematics and statistics, information and communication technologies and agriculture, forestry, fisheries and veterinary, where foreigners completed over one-third of the doctorate degrees in each field. Examined by university, the highest numbers of degrees were completed at the University of Helsinki, good 5,500. The second most degrees were completed at the University of Turku, some 3,700 and the third most at the University of Eastern Finland, just under 3,200. The least number of degrees were completed at the National Defence University, 275 degrees and the University of the Arts Helsinki, close on 450 degrees. More new students and new foreign students than in the previous year In 2018, a total of good 26,200 new students started studies, which is almost six per cent more than one year previously. The number of new students studying for higher university degrees grew by nearly 13 per cent and that of new students studying for lower university degrees increased by four per cent. However, the number of new doctoral programme students decreased by nearly eight per cent year-on-year. The number of new foreign university students grew by nearly one-fifth from the previous year. The share of foreigners among all new students was around ten per cent. New foreign university students in 2012 to 2018 In 2018, a total 153,400 students were studying at universities, which is roughly the same amount as in the previous year. In all, 77,000 students were studying for a lower university degree and 58,000 for a higher university degree. There were 18,300 post-graduate students, of whom good 800 were studying for a licentiate degree and around 17,500 for a doctorate degree. In 2018, the highest numbers of students were studying in the field of arts and humanities, 17 per cent. The second most students were studying in the fields of business, administration and law and engineering, manufacturing and construction, around 15 per cent of all students. The proportion of women of all students attending education leading to a degree was 54 per cent but the variation was large between fields of education. Good four out of five students in education were women, while in the field of information and communication technologies (ICT), the proportion of women was slightly over 20 per cent and in the field of engineering, manufacturing and construction around 25 per cent. In contrast, both sexes represented around one-half of students in business, administration and law, and natural sciences, mathematics and statistics. The number of students was highest at the University of Helsinki, close on 31,300. The second most students were found at Aalto University, nearly 17,500, and the third most at the University of Turku, good 16,100. More detailed time series data on university students and degrees by education and university are available in the tables in databases . Source: Education. Statistics Finland Inquiries: Jukka Jalolahti 029 551 3588, koulutustilastot@stat.fi Director in charge: Jari Tarkoma Publication in pdf-format (285.8 kB) Updated 9.5.2019 Referencing instructions: Official Statistics of Finland (OSF): University education [e-publication]. ISSN=2324-0148. 2018. Helsinki: Statistics Finland [referred: 25.12.2021]. Access method: http://www.stat.fi/til/yop/2018/yop_2018_2019-05-09_tie_001_en.html Aviation, at least in terms of controlled, heavier-than-air flight, does not have a terribly long history as these things go. In spite of its relative youth, that history is full of stories worth remembering; stories that brought us to where we are today and continue to provide valuable lessons, insight and inspiration for current and future aviators. One of the organizations working to preserve these stories is the Humanus Documentary Films Foundation, which recently premiered the museum cut of their World War I aviation film, The Millionaires Unit, at the New-York Historical Society in New York City. The First Yale Unit Based on Marc Wortmans book of the same name, The Millionaires Unit tells the story of a group of Yale undergraduates who formed a privately funded air militia in preparation for WWI, joined the United States Navy, and became, in many ways, the foundation of U.S. naval aviation. The documentary follows the First Yale Unit, known in the press as the Millionaires Unit, from how they came together to learn to fly in a Curtis Model F flying boat, through their efforts during the war, and on to the significant impact many of them had on the early days of aviation. Many went on to take leadership roles that influenced the course of American history. I wrote about the young men of the First Yale Unit because I was swept up by their idealism, passion for this new frontier of aviation, and the untold stories of their risk-filled, sometimes humorous, sometimes heroic, sometimes deadly adventures, said Wortman. They came from such a different age and had such different expectations for themselves than most of todays privileged youth. I wanted to understand better the sources of their sense of duty. Finding Family The story of making The Millionaires Unit into a documentary began with a chance encounter in a bookstore. According to filmmaker Ron King, I walked over to this new stack of books and noticed that there was a picture of my grandfather on the cover of the book that I had never seen before, but I recognized him right away. My mother had told me that my grandfather had flown in World War I and was one of the first U.S. naval aviators, but I didnt know what the story was about his service in World War I. King contacted Wortman and, upon discovering that no one had yet looked into putting the story on screen, got in touch with college friend and professional documentarian Darroch Greer. Together, they decided to put together a film. In spite of having almost no funding, the project began to take shape. In addition to research already compiled for the book, they uncovered information about the unit and its involvement in the war through public and private archives. Furthermore, King wasnt the only descendent of the First Yale Unit pilots to get involved with the project. Film narrator Bruce Derns great-uncle was also a member. Other families, some of whom were in contact with Wortman for his book, and others who found the documentary project along the way, provided a wealth of letters, sketches, documents and remembrances. Greer and King say they are still being contacted by relatives of First Yale Unit pilots. Documentary funding came through donations. Using small crews and filming piece by piece as money became available, Greer and King were able to stretch their resources even as the films scope expanded beyond their original plan. The Humanus Documentary Films Foundation was formed up to support the fundraising efforts for The Millionaires Unit. All told, the two-hour version of the documentary was seven years in the making and cost approximately $1 million. Sights and Sounds Of Historic Flight Greer and King didnt want to use actors to re-create the lives of the unit pilots. Instead, they let the letters, diaries and photographs from the time speak for themselves. Similarly, when filming aircraft for the documentary, they traveled around the world to film restored or replica planes that were as close to those flown by the men of the Millionaires Unit as possible. Significantly, the filmmakers found a flying full-scale replica of a Curtiss Model E flying boat at the Curtiss Museum of Local History at the south end of Lake Keuka where Curtiss developed the original seaplane. The airplane was built and flown by local volunteers led by engineer/craftsman Art Wilder. Realizing that aesthetic also included a trip down to New Zealand to get aerial footage of one of the very few Sopwith Camels still flying powered by an original engine. Its a rotary engine with nine cylinders that barks and bangs and sounds very distinctive, said Greer. I really fell in love with this plane. Other aircraft that appear in the documentary came from The Aeroplane Collection (Paso Robles, California), and The Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome (Rhinebeck, New York). Documentary and Future Projects Even after the initial release of the film in 2014, the project has continued to evolve. The museum cut of The Millionaires Unit premiered this April, condensing the two-hour documentary into a one-hour version meant for museum shows and television. Humanus also maintains an online archive of historic material related to the unit including additional information about unit members, an illustrated timeline of the units foundation and service, and a photo gallery. Humanus is currently working on a second aviation documentary that follows the Lafayette Escadrille, a group of mostly American volunteer pilots who fought for France in WWI. A 20-minute version of The Lafayette Escadrille documentary was produced for the WWI Centennial Commission education initiative and is scheduled to be distributed to approximately 600,000 classrooms. A longer version, slated to run about an hour and a half, is in production. To learn more about the Millionaires Unit, the making of the documentary and other aviation projects from the Humanus Documentary Films Foundation, listen to our podcast or visit http://millionairesunit.org and http://humanusdocumentaryfilms.org. The two-hour version of The Millionaires Unit can be streamed via Amazon, iTunes, Google Play and more. . : . Covid-19, . 28 ,... Scott Olson/Getty Images(WASHINGTON) -- President Donald Trump announced $448 million in new disaster relief funding for the hurricane-ravaged Florida panhandle area on Wednesday night, at his first campaign rally in the state since the 2018 midterms. "These dollars will help communities get back on their feet. We've already given you many many millions of dollars but these are additional monies that are coming in to help the families put their lives together," the president told the crowd, which was jammed into the outdoor Aaron Bessant Park amphitheater in Panama City Beach, Florida. Trump was speaking to his supporters at the political rally near Panama City, Florida, a community still fighting for disaster aid several months after Hurricane Michael, a Category 5 storm, ravaged the area. For some in the region, it's not about the community's chance to see the president -- it's about the president's chance to see the community. "We're just encouraged that [Trump] is going to spend his time back in this area. And maybe he can see progress of where we are but how much more we need to have from Congress," Panama City Manager Mark McQueen told ABC News. The president's visit falls on National Hurricane Preparedness Week, launched by the White House with the hope of encouraging Americans living in hurricane-prone areas "to take the measures necessary to safeguard their families, homes, and businesses." "My Administration is continuing its efforts to enhance storm tracking and intensity predictions to help save lives and livelihoods by giving communities adequate time to prepare. We are committed to ensuring that the United States will produce the best weather forecasting model in the world," Trump said in a statement released by the White House. The Trump administration notes its efforts to prioritize and invest in mitigation actions -- while criticizing Democrats for what he says is their holding up of a disaster relief funding deal. On Wednesday night, holding a chart, the president told his supporters that Puerto Rico has received more funding than any other state or territory. "Puerto Rico got $91 billion dollars and I understand they don't like me. It's the most money we've ever given to any anybody," the president said. "I have a great relationship with the people of Puerto Rico, but it hasn't been fair the way they've treated all of us from the standpoint of the leaders, because they complain they want more money, they got 91 billion," the president said. The president also tore into a number of the Democrats who are running to challenge him in 2020. "I'll take any of them, let's just pick somebody please and let's just start this thing," the president said, before ripping into a handful of Democrats running for president. "Pick somebody!" Trump added. "One of the Democrats today said that he, it's a he, a sleepy person, said that he heard from a lot of foreign leaders and they want him to be president," Trump said referring to former Vice President Joe Biden. "Well, of course they do. So they can continue to rip off the United States, of course they do. I think if I heard that I'd never vote for him." Trump then turned his attention to Sen. Bernie Sanders. "And then you have Bernie. Bernie. Then you have Bernie," he said. "We got some real beauties. Crazy Bernie. You got a choice between sleepy Joe and crazy Bernie." The president continued, "We have a young man, Boot Edge Edge," he said, referencing South Bend Mayor Pete Buttigieg. "Boot Edge Edge. They say: Edge Edge -- He's got a great chance, doesn't he? He'll be great. He'll be great. He'll be representing us against President Xi of China, that would be great," Trump said. "That would be great. I want to be in that room I want to watch that one." "Beto, boy is he falling like a rock, what the hell happened to Beto?" Trump asked during the Florida rally, taking aim at former Rep. Beto O'Rourke. Near Trump's rally, Panama City is still working to clean up after Hurricane Michael ripped through the Florida Panhandle in October. "If you take Hurricane Irma that went through basically 15 counties of Florida, there was 2.3 million cubic yards of debris," Panama City Mayor Greg Brudnicki said. "In Panama City alone, we have picked up nearly 4 million cubic yards so far, in our little 36-mile footprint." The storm's 155-mph winds ripped through parts of the Panhandle, destroying homes, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. Dozens were killed. Brudnicki, who described the damage as "catastrophic," had to chisel his way out of his own home, using handsaws and chainsaws to cut through debris. When he finally emerged, he soon saw the scope of the damage. "To get out to the road and to be able to traverse -- it was unbelievable the amount of debris that we could see. And until you start picking it up, you really don't understand or know the devastation," Brudnicki said. In Bay County alone, 31 million cubic yards of debris have been picked up -- enough to fill 12 million standard-sized truck beds, according to city aides. But the cost to pick up the debris exceeds the city's annual budget. Panama City estimates cleanup efforts could reach $150 million, but the average annual budget for the city is just $90 million. "When we say we're looking for help from the federal government, the reason is that all of these expenses need to be paid for when billed. It's not like we're looking for money to rebuild buildings that got devastated. This is just to clean up so we can find where the buildings used to be, to start working," Brudnicki said. Much of the region's focus is on housing and education. As residents scurry to find a stable place to call home, the U.S. Postal Service has reported more than 14,000 change-of-address filings. There are also more than 5,500 homeless children with no permanent address. City officials remain hopeful as they look to emerge bigger, better and stronger from a storm that wiped so much life out of their community. "I know many other cities have gone 10 to 15 years in terms of recovery -- we're going to push the envelope. In three to five years, we want to be well on our way to recovery," McQueen said. But to get there, he believes it will take a whole government approach and investment into affected communities. "The federal government needs to come to bear. The state, the county and the city need to apply resources, as well as private capital and philanthropic revenues that can help to change the outcome of Panama City," McQueen continued. For Brudnicki and McQueen, the president's trip comes fresh off their own visit to the nation's capital, where they made an in-person plea to lawmakers to take action and move forward with disaster relief aid. They joined a chorus of other elected officials putting pressure on Congress for more disaster relief aid after their communities were severely damaged in a variety of natural disasters. "We met with a number of members of Congress, we met with a number of agencies. And the assessment is that we feel very optimistic that Congress will take up a supplemental that will help not just Panama City, but all of these disasters that took place in the United States," McQueen said. Aid, however, has reached a series of roadblocks. Initially stalled by the longest government shutdown in history, it is now deadlocked in Congress. Brudnicki, McQueen and other officials left Washington empty-handed. Trump visited the area shortly after Hurricane Michael touched down and toured ravaged communities. "To see this, personally, is very, very tough," the president said during his October visit. Ahead of his rally, the president visited Tyndall Air Force Base, which suffered severe damage. His visit, attracting national attention, was eagerly anticipated by a community that has at times felt forgotten since October. "We're very pleased with President Trump's response to coming to Panama City, that he was here very shortly after the storm and survey the damage," McQueen said. "And we're very encouraged by that, that shows that we're not forgotten, nor ignored." Copyright 2019, ABC Radio. All rights reserved. Get News Updates Enter your e-mail address below to join our mailing list and receive e-mail notice with each new edition along with breaking news updates right in your inbox! Flood victims entering the Kennedy Recreation Center in Lincoln Park on May 9 were first asked to grab a bucket. Repurposed as a multi-agency resource center after rain pounded the Downriver region, the building has since May 6 served as a one-stop shop for residents who suffered flood damage. That meant tables with representatives from various state agencies, aid organizations and a stack of plastic buckets. The so-called muck-out buckets contained an assortment of cleaning supplies for residents dealing with water-soaked basements. Samer Jaafar, deputy director of the Wayne County Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management, said around 700 people had come through the MARC by 1 p.m. May 9. He expected the number to rise above 1,000 by the end of the day. Anybody who comes in here to get assistance, were going to help them, he said. Were not finished until everybody in Wayne County has been helped, and its great to see the collaboration between different organizations coming together with a cohesive plan to help anybody whos been impacted by the flooding. Aside from the DHSEM, the Wayne County Department of Health had a representative on-hand to answer questions about maintaining sanitary conditions. Department manager Michelle Lenhart Varran said its important for people to know the proper post-flooding cleanup techniques. Were here to help residents get a better understanding of how to clean their homes, she said. She then pointed to a stack of handouts explaining some of the key takeaways basements containing raw sewage can be hazardous to ones health; bleach diluted with water can be used as a cheap disinfectant; flooded basements near electrical wiring should be avoided until the power is shut off; cloth items, including carpets and furniture, need to be cleaned and disinfected to remain in use; and bleach should not be mixed with ammonia as that combination produces poisonous gas. Located opposite Varrans table were two individuals from the Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services. This station marked the third stop in the MARC process, following check-in and the provision of muck-out buckets. Kim Skiver, of Allen Park, waited in line at the table with her husband, Gary. Were seniors, and its a lot of work to do a cleanup like this, she said. Were trying to make sure we get the help thats available to us, and if some money comes in from FEMA, we want to make sure were on that list, too. In 2014, we only had minor damage. This year was worse. A few spots in front of the Skivers, Ernestine Mitchell of Van Buren Township said she had to get a 30-foot dumpster to haul all the damaged items from her home. I lost a lot, she said. And I cant recover some of it because there were things that had sentimental value things I cant get back. Kim Spalding, an outreach and communications representative for DIFS, said theyre there to help answer residents questions about insurance coverage and claim filing. Next to the DIFS table were representatives from the Salvation Army and Red Cross. Residents were asked to fill out forms at each table to help the organizations gauge needs and track damage. One of the Red Cross representatives, Russ Doseck, said May 9 was the busiest day of the week. As the queue of residents grew, Nancy Meade, of Ecorse, sat in a chair next to a muck-out bucket, waiting to hear if any of the organizations were in a position to help with her situation. What happened in my case is that I was in the process of relocating, so a lot of my stuff was in the basement while the landlord did work upstairs, she said. I had to get rid of stuff, and now Im trying to see if anybody here can help. Meade said she didnt have renters insurance and doesnt qualify for some of the supports food assistance, for example made available by the government. She said she hoped the Salvation Army could do something, but wasnt sure what was next. Montreal, CA (H4T1V6) Today Snow this morning will taper off to light snow this afternoon. Some mixed winter precipitation possible. High -5C. Winds NE at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of snow 80%. Snowfall around one inch.. Tonight Occasional snow showers. Low -6C. Winds NNW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of snow 60%. Snow accumulations less than one inch. MBABANE Minister of Commerce, Industry and Trade Manqoba Khumalo has said the success of the country lied with the cooperative movement. With an overall asset base of over E3 billion, the minister said he believed the cooperative movement had the capacity to double that. Khumalo was addressing the leadership of savings and credit cooperatives (SACCOs) during a breakfast meeting aimed at briefing him about the 4th SACCO Indaba that began yesterday at Esibayeni Lodge. Also present during the meeting was George Ombado, the Chief Executive Officer of the African Confederation of Cooperative Savings and Credit Associations (ACCOSA) based in Nairobi, Kenya as well as Commissioner of Cooperatives Nonhlanhla Mnisi. Minister Khumalo expressed his desire to see the cooperative movement grow from the current four per cent of the population to at least 25 per cent. encourage The minister said there was a need to encourage people from the grassroots of the country to aggregate their thoughts, resources, talents and assets to form a unit that can give them the power to go to a bank and say we want to implement this big idea, and we want to get into this kind of a business. I am absolutely sure that if that were to happen, the country would transform a bit faster than it currently is. We see, for example, how the sugar industry has resulted in changed lives for the people. We also see the same with the savings and credit cooperative schemes where lives have been transformed, said Khumalo. The minister pointed out that emaswati complain that there were people coming from other countries who take up our businesses, but the truth was that the nation remains divided. OVER 100 years ago, in the year 1912, an Italian statistician, one Corrado Gini, published the pleasant and surprisingly modern book, Variability and Mutability. Therein, he introduced a measure of variability that is known today as the Gini Index. The Gini Index had about 13 formulations originally, none of which are known to the general public today. Gini defined his index as the mean difference from all observed quantities and proceeded to provide different formulations to easily compute his index with various types of data, and indicated the fields where each formulation might be more appropriate to use. The text is enriched with many curious and practical applications that made the stunning publication ahead of its time. In 1914, Gini discussed his index in relation to the Lorenz curve and popular contemporary measures of variability. The World Bank uses the Gini Index as a summary statistic to measure how equitably resources, such as income or wealth, are distributed within an economy. The 2018 figures tell the story that in the whole world, the Republic of South Africa is the most economically unequal. On a scale of zero 0 to 100, where zero represents total equality and 100 represents total inequality, South Africa scored a colossal 63. The pre-1994 racist regime designed to keep South Africas black population under the thumb of an elite white minority, was overhauled by the introduction of a democratic government in the early 1990s, tasked to extend basic human rights and opportunity to all citizens of that land. The South African black population of today enjoys basic freedoms, but is yet to share in the lands wealth and prosperity. The legacy of apartheid endures. Previously disadvantaged South Africans hold fewer assets, have fewer skills, earn lower wages, and are still more likely to be unemployed. Some might argue that the rainbow nation is even more divided now than it was in 1994. The Kingdom of Eswatini scored 52 on the same scale, making us the sixth most unequal nation in the world. Eswatini has been independent for more than half a century; we should be doing a better job at distributing income among the populace by now, especially considering our relatively meagre population size. Systematic failures at a government level, and barriers to start and grow new businesses continue to be the bottlenecks that limit our overall throughout, andcompromise how high we can fly. South Africas richest households are 10 times wealthier than the poorest households, while the wealthiest 20 per cent in Eswatini enjoy a 56.7 per cent share of the national income. Murray Leibbrandt, economics professor at the University of Cape Town, posits; The best signifier of a country thats really on its way isnt a society with no inequality. Its a society with declining inequality and a growing middle class. Inequality in Eswatini has declined by about eight percentage points since 1994; and South Africas taxes and social spending system have achieved the largest reductions in income inequality among a sample of 29 developing countries in the Commitment to Equity database, according to the African Unions Africas Development Dynamics report of 2018. Things are looking up then? Eh, not really. Southern Africa is the most unequal region in the world. Of the 10 countries with the highest income inequality, six are found in Southern Africa. It doesnt get much worse than Southern Africa, Im afraid. The conversation around wealth redistribution will only intensify in the region. Social mechanisms such as taxation, charity, welfare, public services, land reform, monetary policies and, at the extreme, confiscation have been devised and employed in various jurisdictions yielding varying degrees of success . Are dramatic policy changes warranted to level the playing field if only in access to opportunities? Go and ask your grandfather. LOBAMBA The PAC yesterday came down like a ton of bricks on Director of Social Welfare Moses Dlamini, calling him incompetent. This was after the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) expressed concern that the Deputy Prime Ministers (DPM) Office had still not run an advert calling for the engagement of a new vendor for the elderly grants distribution yet the contract with Eswatini Post and Telecommunications Corporation (EPTC) was expiring at the end of May 31, 2019. Irked Instead, the director irked the committee when he said the DPMs office had taken the advice of the PAC and was contemplating on giving EPTC a contract extension on the distribution of grants until the end of December 2019. However, PAC Chairperson Phila Buthelezi denied that they had ever advised the DPMs office to give EPTC a contract extension and instead said they had asked them what steps they had taken to ensure that a new service provider, if that would be the case, was engaged. Buthelezi said he had been looking at the newspapers with the hope of seeing a tender being advertised, but to date nothing had happened. Manzini Region Member of Parliament (MP) Busisiwe Mavimbela shared similar sentiments in the sense that since the director knew very well that the contract would elapse soon, what steps had been taken to engage a new one. You are clearly failing to do your job and I am very disappointed in you, she said. MP Buthelezi said the director needed to inform the PAC of the specific stages which had to be undertaken to get a new vendor instead of Dlamini just generalising that it was a very long process. Engage Curiously, I want to know if you have even communicated with EPTC informing them that you may need to engage their services for a short period, wondered MP Buthelezi. He said in the event that EPTC was not willing to continue with the project, it would be the elderly who would suffer because in essence this meant that they would not receive their next quarterly grants. Dlamini said they had written to EPTC indicating their willingness to engange them on a short-term basis. However, after further grilling by the PAC, Dlamini admitted that the letter to EPTC was still in the office of the Principal Secretary, Khangeziwe Mabuza. Denied This was after the Under Secretary, Hlobisile Dlamini, denied any knowledge of the letter to EPTC and said the last formal correspondence was made in January 2019, where the government parastatal was made aware of the elapsing contract and that they should reconcile their books. The PAC said it wanted written correspondence between the DPMs office and the EPTC instead of verbal engagements. The director said he had written to the Ministry of Finance requesting for a release of the commitment of funds and thereafter they would engage the ESPPRA. MP Buthelezi said this process should have long taken place and it was clear that the elderly would not be paid anytime soon during their next payment schedule. LOBAMBA I dont even know how we got here, but I am happy that we got the seven per cent we wanted. This was the reaction of Minister of Finance Neal Rijkenberg yesterday after a roller coaster debate on the controversial Alcohol and Tobacco Levy Bill, 2019. Initially, when acting Chairperson of the Finance Sessional Committee Ndzingeni MP Lutfo Dlamini motivated the debate, it seemed as if the House of Assembly agreed with him that the implementation of the seven per cent increase be staggered. The Committee had proposed that the seven per cent increase be staggered first this year by four per cent and in 2020 by three per cent. Motivation Dlamini, in his motivation, said about five stakeholders had come to make submissions and these were businessman Walter Bennett, Eswatini Beverages Limited, CANGO, British American Tobacco Swaziland and Eswatini Business. He said they had listened to all views and considered governments position, including that of the business community. He said they had recommended the staggering of the seven per cent levy because it was their finding that smuggling of the two products (alcohol and tobacco) was rife and that there were no clear measures to curb this illicit trade hence they proposed the staggering as government put the control measures in place. He was supported by Maphalaleni MP Mabulala Maseko, who said as much as they understood the economic challenges and the need for payment of taxes, however, it was crucial to stagger the sin taxes. In the past we knew of cigarettes called Peter Stuyvesant, which retails at E3 per stick, however, now there are cigarettes called GT which only retail at E1.40, said Maseko. He said in the past they had also agreed to the staggering of transport costs where public transport operators had demanded a 50 per cent increase, but it was agreed that it be staggered by 25 per cent each year. Another MP who supported the four per cent only increase in 2019 was Shiselweni II MP Strydom Mpanza, who said the increase would not be a deterrent to alcohol and cigarette users. He said for example police had increased fines for drink-drivers, but people continued to abuse alcohol. Violence Mpanza said actually the increase in the levy would cause further gender-based violence and people would buy alcohol instead of food for their families. He also said the tax base would also dwindle because people would consume the illicitly acquired products. Lugongolweni MP Enos Magongo said emaSwati would now go and purchase cigarettes in South Africa as they would be cheaper there. Lubombo MP Lorraine Nxumalo proposed that the levy should only be increased by four per cent. BUHLENI Eswatini is under attack! An armed gang left a trail of destruction when it attacked several homesteads and businesses located in north-eastern parts of the country on Tuesday night. One elderly man was shot, a woman was raped and at least three others were left with serious injuries following the attack. The gang targeted areas stretching from Buhleni to Manjengeni area, near Mananga Border Gate. One of the targeted areas was Malibeni community, where three weeks ago, a man was shot dead during what is widely believed to have been a botched robbery. Information gathered was that the gang first attacked a homestead of a woman who chairs a community stokvel (saving scheme). The armed gang robbed the homestead of a laptop, money plus a car, whose description was not immediately ascertained. According to residents, after robbing the homestead, the armed gang jumped into the stolen vehicle and fled. However, a short distance from the homestead they had robbed (at a T-junction), the armed gang coincidentally came across a police vehicle, which was reportedly patrolling the area. According to a community leader, who asked not to be named, the gang fired at the police vehicle, and another car, which was passing by, was hit by a stray bullet. Police confirmed that a shootout ensued when they came across the armed gang at the T-junction but they said none of their officers were injured. A bullet damaged the windscreen of a vehicle that was driven by a Caucasian man but fortunately he escaped unhurt, said Chief Police Information and Communications Officer Superintendent Phindile Vilakati. During the shootout, the armed gang managed to flee the scene, leaving behind the vehicle they had stolen. Police reportedly remained at the scene, assuming that the armed gang would flee and not commit other crimes but the gang had other plans. They attacked a second homestead. MANZINI The deceased Eswatini Water and Agricultural Development Enterprise (ESWADE) Manager is Mangetse Dlamini. Dlamini was the Executive Social Services Manager. He died in a horrific road accident on Tuesday afternoon, minutes after cutting the sod for new ESWADE offices at Ndzevane under Nkilongo Constituency, in the Lubombo Region. It is said leading to his demise; Dlamini had been in a jovial mood as he had spear headed the securing of the land for ESWADE. The parastatals CEO, Sam Sithole, said Dlamini had been responsible for strengthening the relations of ESWADE and traditional authorities which had resulted in them securing the piece of land. Deceased Sithole said Dlamini had been with ESWADE for five years and next year August would have been the end of his second contract with the entity. He said Dlamini had also assisted with formulating contracts for tenders while also assisting supervisors to monitor the contracts. Sithole said the accident that claimed Dlaminis life happened at a blind rise whereby the truck was overtaking a Ford Bantam. However, while overtaking the Bantam, Dlaminis vehicle was at the peak of the blind rise resulting in the truck hitting it head-on. This resulted in the truck dragging the Isuzu driven by Dlamini for about 100 metres before both vehicles overturned. Efforts to get comments from the deceaseds family proved futile as one of the people whom this reporter had been referred to said she was not the rightful person to engage on the demise of her brother. It was gathered that Dlamini had spent a better part of his life in the United States of America where he also had a son, while locally he is survived by two children. He was said to have returned to the country around 2010. As if he knew that it was his last day, Dlamini had posted a spiritual message on his Facebook account. The message read: I would never get tired of saying thank you God because He never gets tired of waking me up each day. NGCULWINI - A closer view of a huge stone (circled) which was used to break Mhubhe High School deputy head teachers offices door. (C) The burnt staffroom after the chaos. The schools main gate was also brought down, allegedly by rioting pupils. (Pics: NGCULWINI Total mayhem! Rubber bullets and teargas canisters flew in the air as irate Mhubhe High School pupils rioted and vandalised school property. According to an inside source, the incident, which resulted in the school being closed indefinitely, took place yesterday morning. Mhubhe High School is situated at Ngculwini, under Mafutseni Inkhundla, about 15km to the south-east of Manzini. The pupils were protesting against one of their teachers, who occupies a senior position in the school, whom they accused of sexually abusing female pupils in the learning institution. During the riot, the pupils are said to have set alight the staffroom and files. Other documents were also burnt in the process. The bursars office, where financial records and monies are kept, was not spared from the fire because it is also situated within the staffroom. However, police and Swaziland National Fire and Emergency Services personnel arrived on time to prevent what could have been a disaster. Other school property which was damaged during the violent protest included classrooms window panes, doors and the guardhouse. A police vehicle and the schools main gate. The deputy head teachers office also had its doors and windows vandalised. The chaos started at around 7:45am when the school bell rang for the pupils to assemble for their morning prayer to mark the start of the business of day. Gathering However, instead of gathering at the assembly square, the pupils continued to loiter around the school yard murmuring about the presence of the teacher, whom they were accusing of sexually abusing their female schoolmates. Suddenly, a group of pupils pelted the staffroom with stones and that marked the start of the violent riot as within the twinkling of an eye, smoke was seen coming out through the staffrooms windows. Thereafter, a number of pupils, mainly boys, joined their schoolmate by stoning window panes of the classrooms opposite the staffroom while singing and chanting slogans which they composed to voice out their anger against the teacher in question. However, the slogans cannot be repeated because they carried statements which could not be proven. Some pupils and staff members ran helter-skelter as the stones and all sort of rubbish were flying all over the school in a disorderly manner. Staff members, who had their cars parked under the schools carport, were left with no other choice but to jump into their vehicles and drive out of the school as the pupils seemed to have made them their next target. Dewan Architects + Engineers, a major player in the Middle East's flourishing architectural and engineering design sector, said it is celebrating ten successful years of operations in Saudi Arabia. Originally setting up offices in Riyadh in 2009, Dewan Architects + Engineers was quick to recognise that Saudi Arabia was a key market for them. Shortly after they first set up their base in Riyadh, Dewan Architects + Engineers clinched the contract to design and supervise the construction of a 28-floor commercial tower in Al-Khobar, one of the most important commercial projects in the city and the first step in its ambition to boost its presence in Saudi Arabia. The firm, which has a reputation for delivering excellence and innovation in design, has played an important part in Saudi Arabias exponential growth since 2009, and they remain seriously invested in the kingdoms future. The company said that this year they moved to new larger premises in the centre of the Saudi capital, to advance their expansion plans and facilitate client engagement. The firm pointed out that their team would be soon expanding, with their new base increasing resources for existing clients, while simultaneously allowing them to explore new growth opportunities in the kingdom. Commenting on the milestone anniversary as well as their advances in the kingdom, CEO Ammar Al Assam said he was buoyant about the next ten years. Saudi Arabias economy is diversifying in a phenomenally ambitious and fast-paced manner as dictated by Vision 2030, which will have a positive long-term impact on the real estate market. Saudi has an aggressive development plan and we are looking forward to being a part of it, remarked Al Assam. In 2010, Dewan Architects + Engineers won the prestigious Al Abudlkarim Holdings Tower project and recently they announced that the soaring 37-storey AKH Tower in Dammam is now open for business. Ranking as the tallest building in Dammam and the 30th tallest in the kingdom, AKH Tower has transformed the skyline of Dammam and added a landmark building to this region. Currently at the helm of several significant projects across Saudi Arabia, including hospitality, retail, and mixed-use projects, the firm is also exploring new opportunities with many of the great new Giga Development initiatives set up by the Public Investment Fund (PIF) in the kingdom.-TradeArabia News Service The Salalah Free Zone (SFZ) recently signed a usufruct subcontract agreement for two new projects in the food and import-export trade sectors with an investment of $19 million, said a report. These projects will be set up on an area of 26,000 sq m and create 70 direct jobs, added the Oman Daily Observer report. The first project is the establishment of a carbon beverage plant which will be the exclusive distributor of Aqua Europe, it said. The second project is the establishment of warehouses and stores to support the import and export trade in Salalah Free Zone. The agreement was signed by Ali bin Mohammed Tabuk, acting CEO of SFZ and the manager in charge of each project in the investing company. Etihad Cargo, the cargo and logistics arm of the Etihad Aviation Group, has launched scheduled freighter flights from its hub in Abu Dhabi to Singapores Changi International Airport. The weekly flights will continue to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, before returning to Abu Dhabi, reinforcing Etihads commitment to serve key logistics hubs in the Asia Pacific region, and offer onward connections through its strategically located Abu Dhabi hub, said a statement from the company. The new service meets customer demand for more freight capacity between Abu Dhabi and Singapore, and compliments the daily widebody passenger flights between the cities, it said. These are key markets for Etihad Cargo, and the opening of the direct route between Abu Dhabi and Changi International Airport supports strong economic and trade links between the cities, it added. In 2018, Etihad Cargo restructured its network and simplified its fleet to five Boeing 777 freighters, to focus on key trade lanes that benefit from Abu Dhabis globally-central location. Etihad has also increased cargo capacity in core markets including China, India and Vietnam, and todays addition of Singapore further strengthens the freighter network, it stated. TradeArabia News Service The International Trade Centre (ITC) and UPS have announced a series of training seminars and workshops for women business owners in the UAE, Mexico, Nigeria, and Vietnam. The workshops contribute to ITC SheTrades commitment, in collaboration with UPS, to connect 3 million women to the global marketplace by 2021, said a statement. The workshops primary objective is to increase participants understanding of trade and exporting, as well as their knowledge of key logistics concepts for exporting, it said. Additionally, the workshops aim to raise awareness among women-owned businesses (WOBs) in the respective countries about the opportunities available through ITC SheTrades and the UPS Women Exporters Program, it added. According to independent research commissioned by the International Trade Centre (ITC), only one out of five export businesses are led by women. With the same research showing that export-focused small businesses tend to be more successful and that women tend to invest up to 90 per cent of their income in their childrens health and education, helping women entrepreneurs build their export capabilities has the potential to reduce intergenerational cycles of poverty. The joint ITC-UPS training will be ideal for women entrepreneurs looking to overcome barriers to exporting or increasing their exports, as well as those looking to explore how to improve the packaging of their goods or understand complex logistics concepts. ITC and UPS will work with a range of national partners to deliver the training, including Dubai Exports, the Nigerian Export Promotion Council, Asociacion Nacional de Mujeres Empresarias, 10,000 Mujeres por Mexico, COMCE, Vietrade, and the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry. TradeArabia News Service Swisslog, a leading global provider of intralogistics automation solutions, said it is making big strides with the SAP EWM warehouse management system alongside its own SynQ software platform. The company recently secured three global projects with a combined value of over 17 million ($19.02 million), and a significant element of these involves SAP EWM integration, said a statement from the company. These orders were placed by Festo, an automation technology specialist from Germany to build a new, state-of-the-art logistics hub in Shanghai; Aqipa, a consumer electronics distributor from Austria who will use SAP EWM to control its AutoStore facility near Innsbruck; and Buhler, a Swiss technology company for its new Customer Service Hub in Switzerland, it said. All three cases call for a combination of the AutoStore compact storage system and SAP EWM. This will allow Swisslog to further cement its position as the worlds number-one AutoStore provider. Alain Kaddoum, general manager of Swisslog Middle East, said: We are delighted that our development of the standard AutoStore concept with SAP EWM offers real added value for our customers. The orders we have secured will allow us to demonstrate our SAP expertise in the market even further, he added. AutoStore is an automated storage and retrieval system, which uses radio-controlled, battery-powered robots who move along a grid on top of stacks of bins. The robots lift bins from the stacks and deliver them to the operator at the picking station, after which the robot returns the bin to storage. AutoStore is a giant leap toward making supply chain management more efficient as it offers a 50% increase in picking speed, a 60 per cent reduction in inventory storage footprint and a 90 per cent improvement in picking errors over non-automated distribution centres. SAP EWM is a highly standardized and efficient warehouse management system for manual and automated warehouse solutions with material flow functionality that allows the direct connection of PLC-level controls. The high level of standardisation minimises risk of error and failure rates in daily operations, resulting in a high degree of employee satisfaction and ensuring maximum throughput. Kaddoum said: At our company, we are dedicated to finding the most innovative solutions in logistics automation to improve our customers operations. Our solutions have provided our customers with significant improvements in logistics enabling optimal usage of the same space. In the Middle East, Swisslog has deployed its automated logistics solutions across multiple sectors including e-commerce, retail, food and beverage. Till date, the company has signed a total of seven large-scale projects in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Kuwait with a value of over $100 million, it stated. TradeArabia News Service Yugen, a Dubai-based boutique media and communications company, has entered into a partnership with Smile Train, the worlds leading cleft organization, to help raise awareness for children with clefts in the Mena region. As a part of the partnership, entrepreneur, fashion icon and lifestyle influencer, Josh M Yugen, was appointed as the first media personality from the Mena region to become a Smile Train Ambassador. Josh M. Yugen found fame in 2016 after winning the Most Influential Travel Journalist Award given by the Miss European Tourism Organization and Media Personality of the Year by TFT UAE. After being named as the first-ever Filipino owner of an international luxury publication in the UAE, he continued making news by co-sponsoring the travel TV program for Miss Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach in 2018 featuring Dubai and most significantly the MEGA fashion show in 2018 where he worked with Miss World 2013 Megan Young and reigning Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray, who are all Smile Train Ambassadors. Yugen stole the publics heart after it was revealed that he was an advocate for children with clefts and had a passion for helping kids in the Philippines. Afterwards, he was featured in several TV channels in the Philippines for his advocacies. In addition to the causes that he supports, Yugen suffered from verbal apraxia when he was a kid and had trouble speaking until the age of 6. He is passionate about kids with determination, to help them discover themselves and to encourage them to use their skills and talents to further develop their lives and inspire more people. It is this passion that led him to Smile Train. Josh M Yugen now plans to use his skills and resources to further raise awareness about Smile Train in the Mena region. Yugen plans to organize several charity events to raise funds and help children in need. I am very excited to have Josh join as our first Smile Train Dubai Ambassador to help us raise awareness and funds for children with clefts. Globally, 1 in 700 babies are born with a cleft lip and/or palate and many are in the poorest regions of the world, said Troy Reinhart, Smile Trains Senior Vice-President Development and Dubai branch manager. Smile Trains goal is to provide free, safe cleft surgery for every child in need. To mark his new Ambassadorship, Josh M. Yugen hosted an exclusive dinner party recently in collaboration with XPEDITION Middle East magazines Luxury Spring Party at Hakkasan, Emirates Palace. The event encourages members from the royal family, UAE government leaders, diplomats, investors, businessman and media friends, to come together and inform them about the advocacies of Smile Train and invited them to the upcoming charity events to raise vital funds for children with clefts. Funds raised from the upcoming events will benefit Smile Train and support children with clefts. Josh M Yugen said: I am absolutely thrilled to now be a part of the Smile Train family and am very much looking forward to kick-starting things off with XPEDITION Luxury Spring Ball Party." A lot of people are asking me why I never smile in photos, I always reply, its a fashion statement but seeing kids who are capable of smiling and are happy but physically unfortunate is another story. This is where my quest and passion to advocate with Smile Train begins. I would like to see as many children smiling and as the Smile Train line says, we are all capable of solving A Single, Solvable Problem. I will use my resources, network and passion to further raise awareness about young children with clefts as every child deserves the ability to smile, and Smile Train is a fantastic organization which works tirelessly to bring joy, happiness, good health to these children. I believe that true happiness can only be attained if you can make a kid smile, he added. TradeArabia News Service Thales, a global leader in aerospace, defence, security, space and transportation, has appointed Sherif Barakat as the new country director of Egypt. He will be responsible for driving the growth, especially as the country focuses on its strategic plan - Egypt Vision 2030 - to drive economic and social prosperity to its citizens. An Egyptian national, Barakat brings over 20 years of experience covering multiple geographies and industries. A seasoned executive with experience in technology, digital transformation and telecommunications, Barakats previous role was vice president and chief commercial officer of Samsung Egypt. He has also served as a country director in both Saudi Arabia and Egypt with his previous employer, Samsung, as well as holding leadership roles across North Africa with Nokia prior to this. In his new role, Barakat will lead a team of over 500 employees in Egypt and build on the 40-year presence of Thales in the country. He will work closely on building Thales historical presence within Egypt and establish the group as the preferred partner to the Egyptian Armed Forces as well as the public and private sector across the groups entire portfolio. As Egypt begins to realise its Vision 2030 socio-economic plan, its an exciting time to be leading the Thales team in the country. Thales has a historic heritage of operations in Egypt, and we remain committed to supporting the nations focus on promoting security, safety and growth. Through our strong local presence, including joint ventures and academic partnerships, we will continue to be the go-to partner for Egypt in driving its growth into the nations exciting future," said Barakat. - TradeArabia News Service The Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction and the EU-UNDP-World Bank organized World Reconstruction Conference 4, is an opportunity for us to come together and accelerate our implementation of the Sendai Framework and improve our recovery processes. A common theme running through both of these events is inclusion and resilience. DRR and recovery practices aimed at building resilience and fostering inclusion are essential to addressing inequality, a core priority at UNDP. More information on WRC4 here. The cutoff date for substantially increasing the number of national and local strategies for disaster risk reduction (DRR) was set for 2020, (see Sendai Target E) and deliberately so. It was to allow enough time to resource and put into action the suite of DRR measures necessary to meet the remaining six targets of the Sendai Framework for DRR by 2030. The question of how much progress member states have achieved around Target E will take centre stage at the upcoming Sixth Session of the Global Platform for DRR in Geneva from 13-17 May. Having worked extensively at UNDP on strengthening disaster and climate risk governance, I have a hunch that the answer wont be straightforward. First, there is the issue of reporting. Whilst in 2017, 47 members states, about 25 percent, reported in the Sendai Monitor that they had Sendai-aligned DRR strategies in place, other self-reporting in 2018 indicates that more than 100 member states have done so. Although this latter source brings us up to about 50 percent of all countries that have endorsed the framework, there is still a sizable shortfall to be met by 2020. Second, not all DRR strategies are created equal. In fact, we see a great difference in their quality and coverage with not many member states confirming that their DRR strategies and plans fully align with the Sendai Framework. Even the objective to prevent the creation of risk (in addition to reducing existing risk) has not permeated all the strategies endorsed since 2015, although this is one of the key new elements of the Sendai Framework. Third, there is the question of what is considered a DRR strategy. Are we aiming at stand-alone strategies, or do we want DRR integrated into current development, climate change or other sectoral strategies? Or do we need both approaches, depending on the context and the countrys risk governance capacities? The answer is probably the latter. Fourth, we need to look at how helpful these new strategies are for encouraging DRR measures. The experiences during the Hyogo Framework implementation period showed mixed results. After sometimes lengthy official endorsement processes, the resources and capacities to tackle even key DRR priorities could not be mustered, and as a result, many DRR strategies remained stunning expressions of intent, but unfortunately, little else beyond that. What prevents these new strategies from having the same fate? Whilst national and local DRR strategies are an essential element of any functioning disaster risk governance system, their ultimate value lies in their implementation. I hope that all delegates attending the Global Platform will be firmly focused on plans that are pushing the boundaries, and at the same time are realistically aligned with existing means and capacities. My wish is that in 2030 we can share a sense of accomplishment, knowing that the global DRR community had a hand in making sustainable development a reality. For this to happen, we also need to keep a close eye on several other components of effective risk governance beyond DRR strategies, such as a well-coordinated institutional architecture, legislative mandates, the political buy-in of decision-makers, the evidence-base, and the human and financial capacities at all levels of society. Since 2005, UNDP has supported nearly 140 countries develop their disaster and climate risk governance arrangements. Some of this experience has been captured in the upcoming 2019 Global Assessment Report on Disaster Risk Reduction, to which I had the privilege of contributing to. The report will take a deeper look at the progress over the years, and how they have helped build risk-sensitive thinking. GLO.ACT Supports Development of Victim Identification Guidelines Kathmandu, Nepal - 13 May 2019 - UNODC organised, under the framework of the Global Action against Trafficking in Persons and the Smuggling of Migrants ( GLO.ACT) and in partnership with the Office of Attorney General (OAG), a two day consultation followed by a two-day "drafting session", to develop victim identification guidelines and national referral mechanisms to counter trafficking in persons. Representatives from the government, civil society organisations and law enforcement agencies all participated in the consultation. Victim identification is crucial to protect victims from exploitation and to provide timely assistance to those rescued. The development of these guidelines is therefore important for officials of all parties, to protect the legitimate rights of victims and to bring perpetrators to justice. Without a formal set of guidelines, proper identification of victims of trafficking has been a challenge in Nepal, which in turn led to less protection of TIP victims and fewer criminal prosecutions against perpetrators. These victim identification guidelines were drafted on existing international standards and leveraged the vast expertise of UNODC in many of its recommendations. The guidelines encompass the 4 major forms of trafficking i.e labour exploitation, sexual exploitation, trafficking in persons for organ removal and child victims of trafficking. A detailed questionnaire to identify victims on each of the form of trafficking has been developed for border guards, investigators, prosecutors, immigration authorities, relevant Ministries and civil society. It will also be disseminated as an annex within the guidelines. The guideline development process is being led by the OAG and an expert group comprising the Ministry of Women , Children and Senior Citizen, Ministry of Home Affairs, Ministry of Labour, Ministry of Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs, Nepal Police and UNODC. This guideline will be shared with relevant stakeholders for further input before finalization of the draft. These guidelines are very important as they will guide the development of effective "Referral" and "Coordinating and Monitoring" mechanisms. Nepal has ratified several International Conventions including the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW), Convention on the Rights of Child (CRC), and the SAARC Convention on Preventing and Combating Trafficking in Women and Children for Prostitution, it has not ratified the UN Protocol to Prevent, Suppress and Punish Trafficking in Persons, especially Women and Children. Following the comprehensive two- day consultation workshop, a first draft of the new guidelines was developed during a drafting session in Nagarkot. This draft includes for example specific sections on identification of TIP for forced labour and TIP of children. Two further consultations are planned after which a final draft will be presented to the government Nepal. GLO.ACT Is a four-year (2015-2019) joint initiative by the European Union (EU) and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) being implemented in partnership with the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF). GLO.ACT aims to provide assistance to governmental authorities and civil society organizations across 13 strategically selected countries: Belarus, Brazil, Colombia, Egypt, Kyrgyz Republic, Lao PDR, Mali, Morocco, Nepal, Niger, Pakistan, South Africa, Ukraine. It supports the development of more effective responses to trafficking and smuggling, including providing assistance to victims of trafficking and vulnerable migrants through the strengthening of identification, referral, and direct support mechanisms. For more information, please contact: Ms. Binija Goperma, Programme Coordinator GLO.ACT Nepal binija.goperma@unodc.org www.unodc.org/unodc/en/human-trafficking/glo-act/ Email: glo.act@un.org Twitter: @glo_act (May 9, 2019) -- For the first time in UTSA history, two students have been awarded the distinguished Barry M. Goldwater Scholarship in the same year. Honors College students Favour Obuseh, a sophomore biomedical engineering major, and Aldo Sepulveda, a junior majoring in physics, are the third and fourth Roadrunners ever to receive the honor. The scholarship is widely considered the nation's most prestigious honor for undergraduate math and science students. Of the 1,223 natural science, engineering and mathematics sophomores and juniors nominated this year, just 496 students received the scholarship. I was astonished by the announcement and also grateful for all the help that I received in completing the application, said Obuseh. Growing up in Nigeria, Obuseh says the idea of utilizing research to solve problems was foreign to him. I grew up believing that people who got sick with malaria suffered imminent death, that amputees would never walk, and that children born with congenital defects would suffer forever, said Obuseh. His perception changed after moving to Houston when he was 13 years old. He said he learned anything is possible. After high school, Obuseh chose to attend UTSA to pursue biomedical engineering so he could help people who may not lead a normal life due to physical impairment. Now, as a sophomore, he conducts research on prevascularization of scaffolds with Eric Brey, chair of the UTSA Department of Biomedical Engineering. Theyre working to provide a means for bone tissue regeneration by preparing already established blood vessel networks in a scaffold. The Goldwater scholarship is a step in the right direction for my goal of obtaining a Ph.D. in biomedical engineering, which will provide the platform I need to increase the diversity in the research field as a principal investigator, said Obuseh. The scholarship will also help me to focus on what I love mostlearning and research. Sepulveda, UTSAs other 2019 Goldwater Scholar, is a first-generation student from San Antonio. When he arrived at UTSA, he hadnt yet established a clear career goal. Then he took an academic inquiry and scholarship class that he says changed his life forever. I learned about research and academia in a meaningful way and immediately became interested in it as a career, said Sepulveda. He chose to major in physics and conducted research on extrasolar planetary systems through summer research internships at UT-Austin and Harvard. I would not be on the trajectory that I am now without my outstanding mentors, trusted allies and benevolent support network at large, Sepulveda said. The Goldwater scholarship will allow him to better compete for a position as a Ph.D. student in graduate school. "This scholarship reflects the substantial professional and personal growth I've achieved in my college experience, said Sepulveda. It is one of many stepping stones for my long-term goal of becoming a successful research astronomer." After he graduates from UTSA in 2020, Sepulveda plans to continue his research and pursue a Ph.D. and eventually influence other college students as a research professor. As UTSAs Goldwater campus representative, Craig Jordan, UTSA College of Sciences associate dean of academic programs, nominated Obuseh and Sepulveda for the award. Receiving two in one year is a first for UTSA, said Jordan. It is additional recognition that we provide outstanding research opportunities for our students and that they are can be among the best trained and most competitive in the nation as they pursue their post-UTSA interests. The Goldwater Scholarship is a living memorial for Senator Barry Goldwater and awards scholarships in the amount of $7,500. Established by Congress in 1986, the scholarship was created to foster young talent in the areas of natural science, engineering and mathematics. Annual Women in STEM Conference Expected to Draw Nearly 500 to UW May 21 These Wyoming junior high school students work with a microcope during one of the workshops offered at the 2018 Women in STEM Conference. This years event is scheduled Tuesday, May 21, at various sites on the UW campus. Nearly 500 female junior high and high school students from Wyoming are expected to attend the conference, designed to allow young women in grades 7 through 12 to learn, firsthand, about careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics from accomplished professionals. (Jan Truchot Photo) Nearly 500 junior and senior high school female students from across the state will descend upon the University of Wyoming campus Tuesday, May 21, to learn more about science and its various disciplines. The Women in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) Conference, scheduled 8:30 a.m.-3 p.m., is designed to spark students passion in science, technology, engineering and mathematics fields; and provide the students mentors and role models. The conference, now in its 20th year, formerly was known as the Women in Science Conference. The Women in STEM Conference is designed to allow young women in grades 7 through 12 to learn, firsthand, about careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics from accomplished professionals, says Michele Turner, program coordinator with the Wyoming NASA Space Grant Consortium. Many young women in junior high and high school start to lose interest in science and engineering careers, and the goal of the Women in STEM Conference at UW is to directly address this problem. During the day, participants will engage in 29 hands-on workshops and lab tours, and have the opportunity to meet professionals who do science on a daily basis in their careers, Turner adds. Volunteers from UW and regional organizations will present workshops on a variety of science and technology-related topics. Some of the workshop titles include: Build a Rover: Learn How Astronomers Investigate Planets; Its a Bird, Its a Plane, No, Wait, It IS a Bird!; So You Want to be a Veterinarian? Animal Anatomy; Seismology in Action; Traffic Jam; Electromagnetic Waves and Colors; and Explorations in Satellite Remote Sensing. Workshop presenters come from the following institutions: UW faculty and students, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, the Denver Zoo, Made Safe in Wyoming, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Natures Educators, Teton Raptor Center, Wyoming Department of Transportation, and the Wyoming Game and Fish Department. Workshops will take place on the UW campus in the Agriculture Building, the Classroom Building, Coe Library Maker Space, Engineering Building, Geological Museum, Michael B. Enzi STEM Facility, Physical Sciences Building, Energy Innovation Center, UW Harry C. Vaughan Planetarium, the Williams Conservatory and the Wyoming Union. Workshops are scheduled from 10-10:50 a.m., 11:10 a.m.-noon and 12:50-1:40 p.m. I liked meeting new people, experiencing hands-on activities, and becoming more knowledgeable about the medical and plant professions, says one student who previously attended the conference. Another student says what she liked most about the conference was people willing to share their stories, and getting young people interested in science. Major supporters of this years conference include: Wyoming NASA Space Grant Consortium, College of Arts and Sciences Inreach Grant, College of Engineering and Applied Science, Haub School of Environment and Natural Resources, School of Energy Resources and Wyoming EPSCoR (Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research). This year, students from the following communities will be participating in Women in STEM: -- Big Piney: Big Piney Middle School. -- Casper: Casper Classic Academy, Centennial Middle School, CY Middle School and Roosevelt High School. -- Cheyenne: Johnson Junior High School, St. Marys Catholic Middle School and South High School. -- Douglas: Douglas Middle School. -- Encampment: Encampment K-12. -- Glenrock: Glenrock Middle School and Glenrock High School. -- Goshen County School District 1: Lingle-Fort Laramie Middle School, Torrington Middle School, Torrington High School and Southeast Junior High School. -- Green River: Green River High School. -- Hanna/Elk Mountain: Hanna Middle School. -- Lander: Lander Middle School. -- Laramie: Laramie Middle School and UW Lab School. -- Lusk: Lusk Middle School. -- Mountain View: Mountain View Middle School. -- Niobrara County School District 1: Wyoming Virtual Academy. -- Pinedale: Pinedale Middle School. -- Saratoga: Saratoga Middle School and Saratoga High School. -- Niobrara County School District 1: Wyoming Virtual Academy. U.S. Rep. Liz Cheney will provide a two-minute video as part of the welcome, which takes place from 9:30-9:50 a.m. in the Wyoming Union Yellowstone Ballroom. Ivy McLeod, flight controller for the International Space Station at Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas, and a UW alumna, will give the closing presentation from 1:50-2:45 p.m. in the Wyoming Union Ballroom. For more information about the Women in STEM Conference, go to www.wyomingspacegrant.org/k-12-programs/women-in-stem/. UW Trustees Plan Special Teleconference Meeting Friday A special meeting of the University of Wyoming Board of Trustees is scheduled Friday, May 10, at 6 a.m. via teleconference. The meeting will begin with an executive session to consider the appointment of a public employee under Wyoming Statute 16-4-405(a)(ii). The board then will move into open session to discuss the process and timeline for selection and announcement of an acting UW president. The meeting will originate from the First Interstate Bank Conference Room of the Marian H. Rochelle Gateway Center. Members of the public wishing to listen to the open session via telephone may do so by calling 1-877-853-5257, using meeting ID 381140209##. Wyoming Business Tips for May 13-19 A weekly look at issues facing Wyoming business owners and entrepreneurs from the Wyoming Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Network, a collection of business assistance programs at the University of Wyoming. By Cindy Unger, business adviser, Wyoming SBDC Network You had no clue that one business could actually be both an LLC and an S Corp, did you? Let me explain further. A limited liability company (LLC) is a legal entity formed under state law to operate a business. This form of organization is easy and inexpensive to create and operate, and provides the personal liability protection of a corporation, coupled with the tax efficiencies and operational flexibility of a sole proprietorship or partnership. A single-person limited liability company will automatically be treated by the IRS as a disregarded entity, i.e., a sole proprietorship. An LLC with two or more members will automatically be treated as a partnership and be taxed under Subchapter K of the Internal Revenue Code. Most LLCs automatically stay with their default form of taxation, but there are alternatives that may be advantageous, depending on your particular business situation. The member (owner/partner) of an LLC is not an employee of the LLC for tax purposes, and does not receive a paycheck with payroll taxes deducted and Social Security and Medicare taxes partially paid by the company. The member takes his/her salary out as a draw. He/she writes himself/herself a full paycheck, with no deductions. That member is now responsible for paying estimated taxes to the IRS on a quarterly basis, consisting of estimated income tax, plus 100 percent of Social Security (12.4 percent up to earnings of $132,000) and Medicare taxes (2.9 percent, except for high earning individuals). This situation is not as bad as it appears. Instead of your employer calculating Social Security contributions on the basis of 100 percent of your salary, as a self-employed individual, you only pay on 92.35 percent of net profit. In addition, half of the Social Security tax you paid is considered as the employers matching portion of the tax and is a deductible business expense. The catch is that, if there is profit left in the LLC business bank account at the end of the fiscal year, those funds are no different from money that you have already drawn personally from the business. As a member/owner, you will be required to pay income tax, Social Security and Medicare taxes on those funds. An S corporation (S Corp) is not a legal entity formed at the state level. An S Corp is a tax entity created through an election with the IRS. Your business will be legally organized at the state level as either an LLC or a C corporation. For tax purposes, however, you must file a special form (2553) with the IRS requesting S Corp status. Like an LLC, the S Corp is a pass-through tax entity, not subject to double taxation like a C Corp. Any income, losses, credit or deductions will flow through to the owners (shareholders) and be reported and paid for on their personal tax return. There are certain restrictions of who can own an S Corp, but most small businesses will qualify. An active S Corp owner who performs more than minor services for the company wears two hats. He/she is both a shareholder and an employee of the business. As an employee, the owner must be compensated for his/her services with a reasonable wage for that position and receive any other employee compensation the corporation typically provides. The company will pay one half of his/her Social Security and Medicare obligations. As a shareholder, any profits remaining in the company at the end of the year can be distributed to the owners as a dividend, and dividends are not subject to employment taxes. Be aware that, as an S Corp, you will have to run payroll; file quarterly federal payroll returns; keep accurate books and a balance sheet; be responsible for paying state and federal unemployment insurance and state workers comp; and file a corporate tax return. Why elect tax status for your LLC, as opposed to simply filing as a corporation and electing S Corp status? An S Corp typically has greater regulation of company procedures than an LLC. An S Corp probably will be responsible for holding required meetings and keep minutes; create and follow by-laws; deal with stock transfers, etc. Also, voting rights in an S Corp must match financial contributions. An LLC has fewer formalities; can have unlimited members; and voting rights can be decided through your operating agreement. You can have the advantages of the simplicity and ease of operation of an LLC, combined with the tax advantages of an S Corp. If a startup has employees or plans to hire employees within the first year of operation and has the expectation of large profits, I typically recommend the LLC/S Corp organization. An LLC must request S Corp status by filing IRS Form 2253 within the first two months and 15 days of the tax year in which the election is to take effect. There are some exceptions, but timely filing will eliminate problems. Contact your tax adviser and/or attorney for additional information about LLCs and S Corps, as there are numerous additional details that are beyond the scope of this article. The Wyoming SBDC Network offers business expertise to help Wyoming residents think about, launch, grow, reinvent or exit their business. The Wyoming SBDC Network is hosted by UW with state funds from the Wyoming Business Council and funded, in part, through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration. To ask a question, call 1-800-348-5194, email wsbdc@uwyo.edu, or write 1000 E. University Ave., Dept. 3922, Laramie, WY, 82071-3922. You have permission to edit this article. Edit Close 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. Even thousands of years ago people wore clothing with colorful patterns made from plant- and animal-based dyes. Chemists from Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg (MLU) have created new analytical methods to examine textiles from China and Peru that are several thousand years old. In the scientific journal Scientific Reports, they describe their new method, which is able to reconstruct the spatial distribution of dyes, and hence the patterns, in textile samples. Chemists Dr. Annemarie Kramell and Professor Rene Csuk from MLU examined two ancient textile samples. One comes from the ancient Chinese city of Niya and was probably once part of a shirt. It is over 2,000 years old. The other sample comes from Peru and dates back to AD 1100 to AD 1400. It was produced by the Ichma people who lived in Peru at that time. Today, there is often little evidence of the colorfulness of such ancient clothing. Over time, the natural dyes have decomposed as a result of the effects of light, air, and water explains the chemist. In the past, only natural dyes were used. Rene Csuk said: Time has not treated them well. What was once colorful is now mostly dirty, grey, and brown. Annemarie Kramell said: Even back then, people mixed individual materials to create different shades, adding: The roots of a genus of plants called Rubia, for example, were used to create the red colors, and ground walnut shells produced the brown tones. The researchers have developed a new analytical method that allows them to detect which materials were used for which colors. With the aid of modern imaging mass spectrometry, they have succeeded in depicting the dye compositions of historical textile samples as isotopic distributions. Previously, the dyes had to be removed from the textiles. However, that previous method also destroyed the pattern. This new approach enables the chemists from MLU to analyze the dyes directly from the surface of the textile samples. To do this, the piece of material under investigation is first embedded in another material. Csuk explained: The piece is placed in a matrix made up of a material called Technovit7100. Slices are produced from this material that are only a few micrometers thick. These are then transferred to special slides. Similar methods are used, for example, in medical research to examine human tissue. The advantage is that this method can be used to study very complex samples on a micrometer scale. Csuk said: This enables us to distinguish between two interwoven threads that held originally different colors. As part of the new study, researchers were able to detect indigo dyes in the samples. However, the method can also be applied to many other dye classes and provides insights into the process of textile production in past cultures, the two scientists conclude. Leigh Vogel/WireImage via Getty Images(WASHINGTON) -- President Donald Trumps eldest son, Donald Trump Jr, has been subpoenaed to appear before the Senate Intelligence Committee, three sources familiar with the matter confirmed to ABC News. The committee is controlled by Republicans as part of their Senate majority. Trump Jr. has previously met with three congressional committees, including the Senate Intelligence Committee in December of 2017, with whom he met for more than nine hours. He met with the Senate Judiciary Committee in September of 2017 for more than five hours and with the House Intelligence Committee for more than eight hours in December of 2017. It is unclear why the committee wants him to return to testify. A source close to Trump Jr. said there was an agreement between the presidents son and the committee that he would only have to come in and testify once as long as he was willing to stay for as long as theyd like, which the source said he did. A separate source close to Trump Jr. said the presidents son has continued to provide documents as requested and as part of negotiations around this subpoena, which began weeks ago, the presidents son offered to answer questions in writing. An attorney for Trump Jr, reached by ABC News, declined to comment. In a statement, the Senate Intel Committee said: We do not discuss the details of witness engagements with the Committee. Throughout the investigation, the Committee has reserved the right to recall witnesses for additional testimony as needed, as every witness and witness counsel has been made aware. Copyright 2019, ABC Radio. All rights reserved. Under the auspices of WCO/CCF-Reserves, the WCO conducted a 5-day workshop from March 25 to 29, 2019 at the National Customs of Paraguay (DNA) Headquarters in the City of Asuncion, Paraguay, to work on the design of the new five year Strategic Plan, comprising a management reporting system to assist in the decision-making process. The event attended by 33 officials from different branches of the DNA, both from the central office as well as from the Regional Offices of the Customs. In highly interactive sessions, the facilitator alongside with the team reviewed the different stages of the strategic planning process, especially the definition of the strategic objectives, the construction of key performance indicators, the respective goals and aligned the strategic projects with the corresponding objectives. At the occasion, the National Director of Customs highlighted the importance of this endeavor that will allow the institution to accelerate the operational and organizational management processes, towards the development of monitoring mechanisms to facilitate informed decisions. The mission was an opportunity to outline an Action Plan to keep the track of future activities and follow-up on specific requirements, such as the configuration of DNA Customs Management System (database) to allow the monitoring and analytical mechanisms which will define the Strategic Dashboard, covered by the Strategic Plan objectives. For more information about this activity, please contact capacity.building@wcoomd.org If you have an event you'd like to list on the site, submit it now! Submit By West Kentucky Star Staff May. 08, 2019 | 09:09 PM | PADUCAH Bennett was arrested after a search revealed approximately 8.3 grams of crystal methamphetamine. Woodford and Bennett were taken to the McCracken County Regional Jail, charged with drug trafficking and other drug offenses. Two Paducah women have been charged with drug trafficking following separate investigations on Washington Street.According to the McCracken County Sheriffs Department, on Wednesday afternoon detectives learned that 46-year-old Paula Woodford would be delivering a quantity of crystal methamphetamine to an individual on Washington Street near the Paducah Public Library.Detectives said Woodford arrived and parked on Washington Street in front of the library. Detectives approached her and she admitted to having methamphetamine, a scale, and methamphetamine smoking pipes. Those items were taken and she was arrested.In the second investigation, detectives received information that another Paducah woman was selling methamphetamine nearby. At 5:00 pm, detectives located the woman in front of an apartment building on Washington Street. She was identified as 47-year-old Michelle Bennett. 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. By West Kentucky Star Staff May. 08, 2019 | 08:59 PM | MAYFIELD Business is booming in Graves County. At an economic development event held Wednesday at Graves County High School, multiple existing companies announced expansion plans that will initially create 160 new full-time jobs. The 11 new projects also bring with them $115 million in investments in Graves County. Hemp processor GenCanna announced an increased investment of $21 million in its new Mayfield facility on Highway 45. Department for Local Government Commissioner Sandy Dunahoo also announced a $1 million Community Development Block Grant to aide in the growth of the new facility for GenCanna. The grant funds will be used by GenCanna to lease equipment. Progress Rail announced the construction of a new state-of-the-art locomotive paint booth and extension of track at the facility for an investment of $1.7 million. Jackson Purchase Medical Center and Trifecta Real Estate announced the construction of the Jackson Purchase Primary Care Clinic inside the Hickory Industrial Park. This will allow the hospital to provide medical care to the companies and employees in the park, as well as residents of Northern Graves County. Some of the other announcements made during Wednesday's event included: - Ingrams Water & Air announced a $1 million expansion to their current facility in the Hickory Industrial Park. This expansion is expected to create 20 full-time jobs. - Pearson Safety Services announced they are locating their West Kentucky office in Mayfield. The company provides a variety of safety programs and services across the Southeast. - Kentucky Transportation Cabinet announced the completion of the HWY 80 Bypass from Cuba Road to I-69. Construction should begin this month and will be completed at the beginning of 2020. - Four Rivers Foundation announced the launch of a new Individual Learning Plan tool that is mobile and can be used by students beginning in Middle School to help them determine their best education and career path. - Mayfield Consumer Products announcing the construction of MCP Packaging Technologies. This $2 million pulp plant will supply Mayfield Consumer Products and other companies with environmentally-friendly packaging solutions. - Brad Youngblood announced the cleanup of the former General Tire site and conversion to a new industrial park with the partnership of Graves County Economic Development and Graves County Fiscal Court. When completed, the 200 acre site will be able to accommodate tenants with buildings from 5,000 to 500,000 square feet. Youngblood also announced the construction of a new 30,000 sq. ft. spec industrial building just south of Grace Park. - First Choice Kubota announced they would be constructing a $2 million facility on one of the front tracts of Grace Commercial Park to expand their inventory. - Graves County Economic Development Director Ryan Drane announced the construction of a new 100,000 square foot spec industrial building in the Hickory Industrial Park. Advertisement By West Kentucky Star Staff May. 08, 2019 | WICKLIFFE By West Kentucky Star Staff May. 08, 2019 | 05:26 PM | WICKLIFFE The US 51 Ohio River "Cairo" Bridge between Wickliffe and Cairo is expected to remain open despite the current round of flooding along the Mississippi and Ohio Rivers. Kentucky Transportation Cabinet engineers have been monitoring the river forecast at Cairo, where the Ohio River was at 50.5 feet at noon on Wednesday. That day's forecast calls for water to rise to about 51.7 ft. and crest there for several days, before starting a slow drop sometime this weekend. That forecast puts floodwaters about 4 feet below where they would cover US Highway 51 near the Kentucky end of the Ohio River Bridge. It also would indicate that the highway will remain open at the Ballard-Carlisle County line, just south of Wickliffe. KYTC Spokesman Keith Todd said that a flood levee breach near St. Louis would probably siphon off enough floodwater to slightly suppress river levels downstream, making it even less likely floodwaters would come near Highway 51. The river forecast takes into account rainfall expectations along the Ohio and Mississippi River watershed for the next 48 hours. So far, the only major transportation disruption for Kentucky is the closure of the Dorena-Hickman Ferry, which will probably remain closed until about May 19th. By West Kentucky Star Staff May. 08, 2019 | 09:49 PM | GOLO Four people face charges in the burglary of a home on Parker Road in Golo Tuesday afternoon. The Graves County Sheriffs Office had requested the public's help in identifying four people suspected of being involved in the burglary. Wednesday morning, deputies located the four individuals in Mayfield. Fifty-three-year-old Donna Moreland, 23-year-old Teddy Davis and 57-year-old Rebecca Ballard, all of Mayfield, were arrested and lodged in the Graves County Jail. They were charged with 2nd degree burglary. Twenty-eight-year-old Kim Jones, of Mayfield, was also charged with 2nd degree burglary. She was not jailed due to a medical condition. By West Kentucky Star Staff May. 08, 2019 | 10:04 PM | WINGO A Wingo man is facing multiple drug charges. Graves County Sheriff's deputies said they were investigating the theft of a motorcycle that was reported stolen in Fulton County. During a search of a home in Wingo, deputies reportedly found suspected methamphetamine, various pills not in the proper container, a handgun, a rifle and drug paraphernalia. The owner of the home, 38-year-old Marshall Gibson, was arrested and lodged in the Graves County Jail. Gibson is charged with possession of controlled substance, illegal possession of a legend drug, possession of meth, prescription controlled substance not in the proper container, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and possession of a handgun by a convicted felon. New Year's Eve still on in Times Square, but with smaller crowd Visitors at The Shadow of the Golden Spike exhibition pose with one of the artworks, tea bricks representing the Pacific Railway, at the Silicon Valley Asian Art Center in Santa Clara, California. [China Daily] Chinese laborers who helped build the Transcontinental Railroad in the 1800s displayed craftsmanship and team spirit as they "cut through dense forests, laid down the rail bed and set ties and rails for almost 1,000 miles", according to archives at the California Railway Museum. Now, The Shadow of the Golden Spike, a two-week exhibition featuring select artwork by three Chinese American artists, commemorates those workers and celebrates the 150th anniversary of the completion of the Transcontinental Railroad, built between 1863 and 1869. Three artworks History as a Cup of Afternoon Tea, consisting of old photographs of the Pacific Railway's construction and painted onto 24 tea bricks by He Gong; a 68-foot-long scroll titled Hometown in Foreign Land by Hou Ning; and a 56-foot-long, 4-foot-high color ink scroll 100 Miles of Nostalgia by Zhao Zhunwang went on display April 27 at the Silicon Valley Asian Art Center in Santa Clara. The exhibition has drawn throngs of patrons of varied backgrounds and inspired passionate discussions about the "achievements and sacrifice the Chinese laborers have made", and recognition and honors "they were due but never received". In a preface to the exhibition, Gordon Chang, a history professor at Stanford University and co-director of the Chinese Railroad Workers in North America Project at the school, said that the first Transcontinental Railroad line that the Chinese workers helped build during the Civil War "linked the country as never before and forever changed the nation". In 1862, Congress ratified the construction of the Central Pacific Railroad from Sacramento across the nation to connect West and East. The Chinese workforce, numbering more than 20,000, who immigrated to California for the Gold Rush in the late 1840s, was drafted into the railway effort and gradually formed 90 percent of the construction labor on the western section of the line. To clear the way for iron rail through the Sierra Nevada mountain range, which is composed of solid granite and blanketed by snow and ice in winter, Chinese workers used explosives and chisels to forge a tunnel inch by inch. "Countless numbers died because of accidental explosions and snow slides," Chang said. "In scorching deserts of Nevada and Utah, they completed phenomenal work, including laying down a record-breaking 10 miles of track in less than 24 hours, a record that has never been broken." Chinese workers "toiled ceaselessly for the Central Pacific Railroad, which eventually extended all the way to Utah, near Salt Lake City. There at Promontory Summit in May 1869, it and the rail line that came from the east, the Union Pacific Railroad, met to complete the work," Chang noted. Despite their major contribution to the railway's construction, Chinese workers were "largely forgotten and marginalized in American history. They were not acknowledged as helping make America a modern nation," Chang said. On May 10, 1869, when dignitaries formalized the railroads' coming together with a ceremony now known as the Golden Spike, the president of the Central Pacific Railroad drove a ceremonial railroad spike made from gold into a ceremonial tie, without offering a single word about the role the Chinese workers had played. "We organized this exhibition in order to memorialize the Chinese workers, the unsung heroes," said Shu Jianhua, the exhibition's curator. Chang said the extraordinary works "provide deeply moving visualizations of the railroad workers, their work and their environment. We want them never to be forgotten or taken for granted. Art can help to recover their lives and connect us the living to those who have passed. What is today if not a continuation of history?" Dr Wu Xiaohua (second from left) performs surgery. [Shanghai Daily] Doctors are urging women with a family history to get genetic testing to dramatically reduce their risk of breast or ovarian cancer, citing Angelina Jolie as a leading example. Wednesday is World Ovarian Cancer Day. In China, about 70 percent of women with ovarian cancer are not diagnosed until the terminal stage, when the five-year survival rate is only 30-40 percent. Doctors say testing for mutation of the genes of BRCA1 and BRCA2 can be a useful measure for early screening, especially among those with a family history. BRCA1/2 are closely related with ovarian cancer and breast cancer. "The risk of ovarian cancer among the general public is 1 percent, while those with a mutation of BRCA1 have the risk of 40 percent and BRCA2 11 to 18 percent," said Dr Wu Xiaohua from the Shanghai Cancer Center, which led the nation's first BRCA1/2 research on ovarian cancer and found 28.5 percent of Chinese ovarian cancer patients have the BRCA1/2 mutation. Based on the achievements on BRCA1/2, the center has included other relevant genes into cancer screening and can catch another 10 percent of cases. "Angelina Jolie is the most famous case with a family history of the BRCA gene mutation and underwent surgery to remove her ovaries and fallopian tube to prevent cancer," Wu said. "In clinical practice, we have also started to offer such preventative surgery to women who have tested positive for BRCA1/2 mutation and have delivered their children." Doctors said women with a family history of ovarian cancer, or who have shown symptoms of ovarian problems or have certain ovarian diseases should receive BRCA1/2 testing for early prevention and detection of ovarian cancer. Liu Yan displays items donated by people from all over the country at the Museum of Broken Relationships in Harbin, Heilongjiang province. [China Daily] In a shopping mall located in the center of Harbin city, capital of Northeast China's Heilongjiang province, a 200-square-meter museum displays items and real-life stories of people's breakups. Themed dusty gray and pale white, small boards with heart-wrenching words hang from the ceiling and walls of the Museum of Broken Relationships. Various items on display have accompanying stories that the donors sent in. "Since I posted the message on different online social platforms about collecting remnants of breakups in the beginning of March, I have received more than 1,000 calls from all over the country," said Liu Yan, the museum organizer. "After listening to their stories, I accepted about 100 items from 50 people ranging from dozens of railway tickets to handwritten letters, a pair of shoes, a broken mobile phone and a new wedding dress." Over the past two weeks, more than 18,000 visitors have visited the museum. Visitors pay 9.9 yuan ($1.50) for each ticket to the museum. "In fact, the idea originated after a bitter quarrel with my boyfriend," the 25-year-old said. "I was so sad that I considered breaking up with him. "However, when I saw the elaborate gifts he had given me, all the wonderful times in the past came rushing back. I gave up the idea of breaking up which I might have ended up regretting and decided to organize the museum which may provide some experience to young people about love." Liu left her job as a tour guide when she had the idea at the beginning of March and put all her savings of about 200,000 yuan into the business. "All the items and stories have special meaning to the donors," she said. "Some donors hope to emerge from the pain of breaking up by sharing their items and stories, while some donors want to help those in sweet relationships to cherish their lovers." Among the exhibits that impressed Liu the most, she recalled a story of a woman whose fiance was in a traffic accident and died just two days before their wedding. The woman, from Jilin province, donated a new wedding dress along with her love story. "She told me that she spent 13 happy years with her boyfriend who was her first love," Liu said. "I felt sad when she cried and said she would never have the chance to wear the wedding dress." Liu also said she found visitors often becoming emotional, suddenly bursting into tears or standing silently in front of the exhibits for quite a long time. Dong Xin, a 23-year-old senior from a Harbin university, said, "Walking around the museum, I recalled lots of memories with my ex-boyfriend. We ended a four-year, long-distance relationship last year. "I still have all the train tickets between our two cities well-preserved." She hopes Liu, the museum owner, can accept the tickets, which "may make it become a longer memory". Liu said, "I plan to change the exhibits at regular intervals and bring the museum to different cities in the future. "I also keep in contact with the donors. Whenever they want their belongings back, I will return them immediately. If they completely give them up, I will preserve them well." (Source: China Daily) Fire crews called to property on Bersham Road This article is old - Published: Thursday, May 9th, 2019 Firefighters are currently in attendance at an incident at a property near the town centre. A spokesperson for North Wales Fire and Rescue Service said they received a call at 6:09pm with reports of a chimney fire at an address in the Bersham Road / Victoria Road area. One fire engine is in attendance as well as aerial ladder. More information when we have it. Thanks to an anonymous reader for the top image, and Nick for tweeting us the below picture. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 02:50:28|Editor: mingmei Video Player Close People stand still in Jerusalem, as a siren sounds marking Memorial Day which commemorates Israel's fallen soldiers and victims of terror, on May 8, 2019. (Xinhua/Muammar Awad) JERUSALEM, May 7 (Xinhua) -- Israel came to a standstill on Tuesday evening, commemorating its annual Memorial Day of fallen soldiers and terror victims. The official memorial day pays tribute to soldiers killed during their military service and wars, as well as the civilian victims of attacks. The day kicked off earlier on Tuesday afternoon, with a memorial service at the Yad Lebanim memorial for fallen soldiers in Jerusalem. During the service, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said: "We are not eager for battle but we know our willingness to sacrifice is the guarantor of our fate." At nightfall, shops and businesses were shut down, as TV channels were broadcasting films about bereaved families and the stories of fallen soldiers, and radio stations playing melancholic tunes. At 8 pm (1700GMT), sirens were sounded across the country for one minute. Right after the sirens, the main ceremony at the Western Wall in Israeli-annexed East Jerusalem's Old City was held with the participation of Israeli President Reuven Rivlin, senior military and police officers, and some bereaved families. Rivlin said that Israel is committed "to bring back home" every soldier who has been fallen in combat, referring to the recent return of the remains of American-Israeli soldier Zachary Baumel, who went missing in Lebanon in 1982. His remains were brought from Syria to Israel in April amidst a Russian-brokered deal that included the release of two Syrian citizens who had been jailed in Israel. "We will not cease until they have all been brought back," Rivlin said,. Multiple other ceremonies and memorial services will be held across the country in the upcoming 24 hours, from late Tuesday to Wednesday evening. According to official figures, there are 23,741 Israeli soldiers, police officers, security service members, and intelligence agents who have died on duty since 1860, the year in which Jews first established a new neighborhood in Jerusalem. This year's commemoration of the Day of Remembrance of Fallen Soldiers was marked a week after the Memorial Holocaust Remembrance Day, and ahead of the celebration of Independence Day, which will last from Wednesday evening till Thursday. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 17:50:16|Editor: mingmei Video Player Close Cambodian Prime Minister Samdech Techo Hun Sen speaks at an event commemorating the World Red Cross Day in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, on May 8, 2019. The Cambodian Red Cross (CRC) collected 20.7 million U.S. dollars during an annual event marking the 156th World Red Cross Day here on Wednesday. (Xinhua/Li Lay) PHNOM PENH, May 8 (Xinhua) -- The Cambodian Red Cross (CRC) collected 20.7 million U.S. dollars during an annual event marking the 156th World Red Cross Day here on Wednesday. The figure represented a 15 percent increase from 18 million U.S. dollars the CRC raised at last year's event. Cambodian Prime Minister Samdech Techo Hun Sen and his wife Bun Rany, CRC's president, attended the ceremony and accepted cash donations from hundreds of donors, who are senior officials as well as domestic and foreign businesspeople. Hun Sen expressed his profound gratitude to all donors for their support to the CRC and said that the CRC had provided relief assistance to almost 140,000 vulnerable families in 2018. "This is the culture of sharing from the rich to the poor and vulnerable people," he said at the event. "Your donations are very important for the CRC to continue its humanitarian activities." The prime minister said the CRC's work has greatly contributed to the implementation of the government's social protection policy. At the event, the Chinese embassy to Cambodia also donated 10,000 U.S. dollars to the CRC. Sorry, this news has been deleted. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 23:19:39|Editor: Liangyu Video Player Close Chinese Vice President Wang Qishan (R) meets with the Republic of Korea (ROK) National Assembly Speaker Moon Hee-sang in Beijing, capital of China, May 8, 2019. (Xinhua/Liu Weibing) BEIJING, May, 8 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Vice President Wang Qishan Wednesday met with the Republic of Korea (ROK) National Assembly Speaker Moon Hee-sang in Beijing, calling for more coordination and cooperation between the two countries for greater achievements. Noting that China and the ROK enjoy good relations under the leadership of the two heads of state, Wang said China and the ROK have similar cultural traditions featuring inclusiveness, which enable the two countries to work together to achieve mutual benefit and win-win results on international affairs through coordination and cooperation. "Facing the complex international situations, China and the ROK should continue deepening bilateral cooperation and enhancing coordination and cooperation in the multilateral arena to achieve new development of bilateral relations," Wang said. Moon said the ROK and China are close neighbors, and the ROK side stands ready to work with China to further deepen cooperation across-the-board and jointly safeguard regional stability. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 02:22:13|Editor: yan Video Player Close BAKU, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Three people were killed and seven others injured when a minibus overturned after colliding with a passenger car on a highway in the western Azerbaijani district of Shamkir on Wednesday, the country's health authorities said. The driver and two passengers of the car, including a 3-year-old child, died on the spot. Seven others were admitted to a local hospital with different injuries, with one of them being in a critical condition, health authorities said. Authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the crash. In another accident in Ujar, a district in central Azerbaijan, a passenger of a truck was killed after it rammed into a digger. Car accidents have become frequent in the country in the past few days, claiming a total of nearly 10 lives and injuring more than 15. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 02:47:25|Editor: yan Video Player Close RIGA, May 8 (Xinhua) -- The screening of a documentary film about southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region attracted an audience of around 200 people at the National Library of Latvia on Wednesday. Sun Yinglai, the Charge d'Affaires of the Chinese Embassy in Latvia, introduced the documentary Deep into Shambhala by saying that it not only shows the beautiful landscapes of that part of China with its crystal green lakes and snow white mountains but also gives an insight into the day-to-day life of its inhabitants, the Tibetan ethic group, as well as the Han, Yi and Qiang ethnic groups. The diversity of the local population resonates with the true beauty of nature expressing the soul of Shambhala, Sun Yinglai said. Agita Batgalve, a sinologist and associate professor at the Asian Studies Department of the Faculty of Humanities of the University of Latvia, stressed in her speech the cultural and historical importance of Tibetan Buddhism which has preserved the religious tradition in one of its most ancient forms. Professor Baltgalve noted that Latvia has seen visits of several Tibetan delegations, now the documentary films provides an opportunity to learn more about the land and people of Tibet by means of cinematography. The show of the documentary in Riga was organized by the Chinese Embassy in Latvia. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 03:02:33|Editor: yan Video Player Close HOUSTON, May 8 (Xinhua) -- A project manager of China Mobile International Limited (CMI) said Tuesday night that energy enterprises, like companies in other industries, are facing challenging of cyber security. Gongpeng Wei, project manager of CMI which is headquartered in Hong Kong and is a wholly owned subsidiary of China Mobile, told the 2019 Energy Industry Theme Reception, held in Houston, U.S. state of Texas during the Offshore Technology Conference (OTC), that 2018 was a year of frequent information leakage incidents. "For example, hackers spread malware called VPNFilter, which can infect dozens of mainstream router models. As a result, over 500,000 routers worldwide were controlled," he said, adding that cyber attacks may lead to leakage of user information, marketing plan as well as company's developing strategy, which may cause a company to incur substantial losses. According to Wei, cyber security mainly refers to all system-related devices, including internet, telecommunications network, wide-area network, internet of things, computer systems, communication systems, as well as industrial control systems. China Mobile is the largest telecom operator in the world by network scale and subscribing base, and is among the top companies in terms of market capitalization and brand value. In order to provide better services to meet the growing demand in international telecommunications market, China Mobile established CMI in 2010. The 2019 Energy Industry Theme Reception was organized by Nguyen & Chen LLP, a Houston-based law firm, in cooperation with Ernst & Young LLP and Merrill, a Bank of America company. OTC, the world's largest annual oil and gas trade show, is held in Houston from Monday to Thursday. Chinese participants in the event include state-run leading companies such as China National Offshore Oil Corp. and China National Petroleum Corp., as well as private enterprises from across the country. The technical program of the four-day event includes more than 80 sessions, industry breakfasts and themed luncheons covering a wide range of topics. This year's new program, Around the World Series, features global industry leaders from Australia, Canada, France, Ghana, Guyana, Israel, Mexico, Norway and Britain to discuss new licensing and business opportunities, as well as recently introduced technologies. Founded in 1969, OTC provides a platform for energy professionals to exchange thoughts to advance scientific and technical knowledge on offshore resources and environmental matters. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 03:22:49|Editor: yan Video Player Close BRATISLAVA May 8 (Xinhua) -- Slovakia on Wednesday commemorated here the 74th anniversary of the Victory in Europe Day, also known as VE Day, the end of World War II in Europe. Political figures including Slovak Prime Minister Peter Pellegrini attended the commemoration. "I'd like to urge all good and decent people, Slovak women and men, not only to commemorate our victory today, but also to mull over and find whether it is in their hearts to do their utmost today to prevent such people, who steered the world towards such horrors back in the day, from ever gaining power again," sai Pellegrini at the commemoration. The prime minister said that he's glad that Slovakia and Europe have been living in peace for 74 years, but warned that another equally important struggle faces the Slovaks today. "Although not with weapons in their arms, but we can see gradually creeping in and anchoring themselves in society various individuals or parties who deny history and the horrors that occurred during World War II," said Pellegrini. He was echoed by the Slovak Parliamentary Chairman Andrej Danko, who said that it is important to distinguish between patriotism and nationalism. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 03:32:54|Editor: mingmei Video Player Close Czech President Milos Zeman (R, Front) attends a ceremony to commemorate the 74th anniversary of the end of World War II in Europe in Prague, the Czech Republic, on May 8, 2019. Czech President Milos Zeman and other senior officials, including Prime Minister Andrej Babis and Defense Minister Lubomir Metnar, on Wednesday laid wreaths at the National Memorial in Prague to commemorate the 74th anniversary of the end of World War II in Europe. (Xinhua/Dana Kesnerova) PRAGUE, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Czech President Milos Zeman and other senior officials, including Prime Minister Andrej Babis and Defence Minister Lubomir Metnar, on Wednesday laid wreaths at the National Memorial in Prague to commemorate the 74th anniversary of the end of World War II in Europe. The reverent act was preceded by a flight of two Gripen fighters and the national anthem, followed by a minute of silence for all who died for the Republic's freedom and independence. The ceremony was also attended by war veterans. Similar events were also held in several other Czech cities, such as southeastern city of Brno. The Victory Day, or the day Nazi Germany signed the surrender in 1945, was marked in the Czech Republic together with most European countries as a national holiday. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 05:44:00|Editor: yan Video Player Close CAIRO, May 8 (Xinhua) -- President of the World Bank (WB) Group David Malpass praised the social protection program known as "Takaful and Karama" in Egypt, official news agency MENA said on Wednesday. "Takaful and Karama has become the largest cash support program in the Arab world and the Middle East region with 9 million beneficiaries," the WB president was quoted as saying. The program provides services for all villages in Egypt, securing social protection and creating job opportunities, according to the report. Malpass, who visited Egypt earlier this week, said the social protection programs are among the most important projects that the WB finances. The WB has a special focus on creating opportunities in less-developed regions such as Upper Egypt. The Takaful and Karama cash transfer program is among Egypt's largest investments in human capital development, he said. The name of the program, which means "Solidarity and Dignity," was launched in 2015 with the support of 400 million U.S. dollars from WB. The program is implemented by the Egyptian Ministry of Social Solidarity and has covered to date 2.26 million households which amount to approximately 9.4 million individuals, or approximately 10 percent of Egypt's population. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 05:49:02|Editor: yan Video Player Close WASHINGTON, May 8 (Xinhua) -- U.S. auto giant General Motors (GM) said Wednesday that it will sell its Lordstown Complex plant in the U.S. state of Ohio to an electric vehicle maker in a move that is expected to "bring significant production and electric vehicle assembly jobs to the plant." GM said in a statement that discussions are ongoing with Workhorse Group Inc, the Cincinnati, Ohio-based company that is focused on building electrically powered delivery and utility vehicles. "This potential agreement creates a positive outcome for all parties involved and will help solidify the leadership of Workhorse's role in the EV community," Workhorse CEO Duane Hughes said in the statement. Hughes said the first vehicle to be built if a GE-Workhorse agreement is reached "would be a commercial electric pickup, blending Workhorse's technology with Lordstown's manufacturing expertise." GM announced on Nov. 26 that it will halt production in five North American plants, including the Lordstown plant, and cut over 14,000 jobs in 2019. In Wednesday's announcement, GE said it has been in discussions with the United Auto Workers (UAW) regarding the impact of changing market conditions on the Lordstown facility. "These discussions will include this opportunity." UAW is a U.S. labor union representing workers in auto, aircraft and agricultural implement manufacturing and other industries in the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico, according to an introduction on UAW's website. "We remain committed to growing manufacturing jobs in the U.S., including in Ohio, and we see this development as a potential win-win for everyone," GE CEO Mary Barra said of her company's potential cooperation with Workhouse. "Workhorse has innovative technologies that could help preserve Lordstown's more than 50-year tradition of vehicle assembly work," she added. In a separate statement, GE also announced that it is creating 450 new manufacturing jobs in Ohio at its facilities in Toledo, Moraine and Parma. U.S. President Donald Trump lauded GE's move in a tweet Wednesday, saying Barra told him that GE will be spending 700 million U.S. dollars in Ohio in three separate locations, creating an additional 450 jobs. "I have been working nicely with GM to get this done," Trump said. Trump took to Twitter one day after GE made the announcement of the Lordstown plant closure and job cut, saying that he was "very disappointed with General Motors and their CEO" and that "We are now looking at cutting all @GM subsidies, including for electric cars." U.S. media assumed at the time that the president was probably referring to the 7,500-U.S.-dollar tax breaks the U.S. federal government granted to consumers buying electric vehicles. CNN cited people familiar with the matter as saying the company was unaware of other federal incentives it was receiving beyond that. Trump didn't mention in the Wednesday tweet what he would do with the subsidies. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 05:49:04|Editor: mingmei Video Player Close Photo taken on April 4, 2019 shows the White House in Washington D.C., the United States. U.S. President Donald Trump on Wednesday asserted executive privilege on the Mueller report, protecting the Department of Justice from Congressional subpoenas. (Xinhua/Liu Jie) WASHINGTON, May 8 (Xinhua) -- U.S. House Judiciary Committee voted Wednesday to hold Attorney General William Barr in contempt of Congress for refusing to hand over the full Mueller report. Lawmakers voted 24-16 to formally recommend the House of Representatives to hold Barr in contempt. While the timing for the full vote is yet to be set, House leaders have signaled support for the vote. The vote came after U.S. President Donald Trump asserted executive privilege earlier Wednesday to shield the Justice Department from Congressional subpoenas demanding the full Mueller Report. "Faced with Chairman Nadler's blatant abuse of power, and at the attorney general's request, the president has no other option than to make a protective assertion of executive privilege," White House Press Secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders said in a statement Wednesday, referring to the House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jerrold Nadler. Sanders later accused Nadler of asking Barr "to break the law and commit a crime by releasing information that he knows he has no legal authority to have." "It's truly outrageous and absurd what the chairman is doing and he should be embarrassed by his behavior," Sanders told the press in a scathing remark. The stiff response from the White House angered Democratic lawmakers. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi Wednesday told the press that Trump is "becoming self-impeachable," and that impeaching Barr is "not off the table." "This decision represents a clear escalation in the Trump administration's blanket defiance of Congress's constitutionally mandated duties," Nadler said. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 06:04:18|Editor: Liangyu Video Player Close Mait Palts (R), director general of the Estonian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and Shen Jian, group leader of the Yixing delegation of east China's Jiangsu Province, pose for a photo in Tallinn, Estonia, on May 8, 2019. China and Estonia have great potential to develop bilateral cooperation in the fields such as industry and commerce and business service, said experts and officials from both sides on Wednesday. (Xinhua/Guo Chunju) TALLINN, May 8 (Xinhua) -- China and Estonia have great potential to develop bilateral cooperation in the fields such as industry and commerce and business service, said experts and officials from both sides on Wednesday. Receiving a visiting delegation from Yixing of Jiangsu province in eastern China, Mait Palts, director general of the Estonian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said, "The bilateral relations between Estonia and China are moving toward higher levels in both political and economic sectors," expecting more cooperation in the future, including in the field of the Estonian Smart City Cluster designed to support the development of smart city solutions in order to improve the life quality in the cities, and also accelerate the export of enterprises. Kalev Kallo, chairman of Estonia-China parliamentary Group and former chairman of the City Council of Tallinn, stressed the high-level meetings between the leaders of the two countries in 2018 and this year, wishing more opportunities for the cooperative business of both countries. Shen Jian, group leader of the Yixing delegation, said that he was highly impressed by the development of Estonia, a member of both the EU and the Schengen Area, and its capital of Tallinn, noting that there is a great potential for China and Estonia in the field of foreign trade with more cooperation opportunities provided by the efforts to jointly build the Belt and Road, wishing enhanced friendship for the peoples of the two countries. More than 20 participants from the fields of industry and commerce, business and Estonian Investment Agency attended the event for bilateral exchanges at the office of the Estonian Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 06:24:25|Editor: yan Video Player Close GENEVA, May 8 (Xinhua) -- A UN humanitarian official on Wednesday said a total of 20 million U.S. dollars of emergency funding is needed in Gaza to help some 1,700 people who were seriously injured in recent demonstrations against Israel. Jamie McGoldrick, UN humanitarian coordinator for the occupied Palestinian territory, told a press briefing here that those victims were hurt during the Great March of Return -- weekly protests on Fridays by Gazans that began a year ago. Saying that the health structures in Gaza really are in bad shape, the UN official said that this appeal for emergency funding will also support the local health system in a way that's currently not being supported. According to the UN official, the average household debt in Gaza now is 4,000 U.S. dollars, and the average salaries are only 400 U.S. dollars a month. The situation has been made worse by chronically high youth unemployment and the fact that the UN's 350 million U.S. dollars humanitarian appeal for 2019 is funded at only 14 percent, he said. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 07:19:39|Editor: Yamei Video Player Close YEREVAN, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan will travel to China to attend the Conference on Dialogue of Asian Civilizations (CDAC), which will be held in Beijing later this month. Meetings with Chinese leaders are on the agenda, Pashinyan told reporters Wednesday during a press conference. "I think this visit will be a good opportunity to give a new impulse to Armenian-Chinese relations," Pashinyan stressed. The Armenian PM noted that Yerevan should be more ambitious in further developing its relations with China. The CDAC will gather state leaders from Asia and other regions, as well as heads of international organizations. There will be discussions on various topics, including tourism, culture, people-to-people exchanges and sharing of governance experience. Other activities such as an Asian cultural carnival, Asian civilization week and Asian food festival will also be held during the event. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 08:45:05|Editor: Li Xia Video Player Close ISLAMABAD, May 9 (Xinhua) -- At least four people including a tribal elder were killed when a blast hit their vehicle in Pakistan's southwest Balochistan province on Wednesday, local reports said. The vehicle was completely destroyed after being hit by a roadside planted device, leaving all the four people onboard killed, local TV channel Hum news reported. The victims' bodies were shifted to a nearby hospital from where they will be handed over to relatives after legal procedures by police. No group or individual has claimed the attack yet. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 09:05:17|Editor: mingmei Video Player Close KIEV, May 9 (Xinhua) -- Ukrainian President-elect Volodymyr Zelensky and visiting Canadian Minister of Foreign Affairs Chrystia Freeland discussed here on Wednesday the settlement of the armed conflict in Ukraine's eastern region of Donbas, local media reported. The two parties exchanged their views on ways to peacefully resolve the conflict, including the Minsk format of settlement, said Ukrainian state-run Ukrinform news agency. During the talks, Zelensky said that there is a chance to halt the hostilities in Donbas and return the region to Ukrainian sovereignty. Since April 2014, Donbas has been mired in an armed conflict between government troops and pro-independence armed groups. In June 2014, the Trilateral Contact Group composed of representatives from Ukraine, Russia and the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) started to work in the Belarussian capital of Minsk to search for peaceful ways to solve the conflict. Freeland arrived in Kiev earlier in the day for a one-day working visit. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 10:10:48|Editor: mingmei Video Player Close ISLAMABAD, May 9 (Xinhua) -- Port Qasim coal-fired power plant has not only relieved the energy crisis in Pakistan by generating 10 billion kwh of electricity, but is also attaching equal importance to clean environment by adopting measures to protect the environment. The Port Qasim power plant is one of the primary power projects started under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) to address the energy shortage in Pakistan. Talking to Chinese media here on the occasion of the first anniversary of the completion of the plant and its generation reaching 10 billion units threshold, Sheng Yuming, chairman of PowerChina Resources Limited, a main stakeholder in the power project, said that environmental protection standards at the plant are better than the local even World Bank standards as the company adopts seawater secondary circulation cooling and seawater desalinization supplement, besides using limestone plaster wet desulphurization. Ever since the power station started operation, the production and living water of the power station comes from seawater desalination. The accumulated production of desalination water exceeds 2.2 million tons, which has saved precious freshwater resources for the local area, he said. Sheng said that the company also takes keen interest in corporate social responsibility. In this regard, 100 fresh graduates from Pakistani engineering universities were sent to China for training, and were employed at the power plant when they returned. The company also gave priority to the employment of local staff and provided 4,000 job opportunities to local people during construction period besides providing long term jobs to 600 local residents. Located about 37 km southeast of Pakistan's southern port city of Karachi, the 1320MW coal-fired power station project in the Qasim Port Industrial Park has been highly praised by the Pakistani government, and its successful operation is being considered as a benchmark demonstration in CPEC as it made important contributions to the structural adjustment of electricity and energy resources. The project also contributed to the improvement of people's life and the economic development in Pakistan, and has further interpreted the Belt and Road Initiative, which has been found with an aim of win-win spirit, Sheng noted. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 10:10:51|Editor: mingmei Video Player Close SYDNEY, May 9 (Xinhua) -- The number of people globally requiring chemotherapy will increase from 9.8 million in 2018 to 15 million by 2040, an international study predicted on Thursday. Population growth was the main factor behind the increase shown in the study, and developing countries are predicted to account for 75 percent of additional cases. Those responsible for the study have called for an expansion of services to deal with demand. "Strategies are urgently needed to equip the global health workforce to enable safe treatment of current and future patients," lead author Dr Brooke Wilson from Australia's University of New South Wales (UNSW) said. "Countries and institutions should use our data to estimate their future cancer physician workforce requirements and chemotherapy needs and plan national, regional, and global strategies to ensure all those who need it will have access to chemotherapy treatment." Wilson said demand for physicians will sharply increase from 65,000 in 2018, to 100,000 in 2040. The study also looked at the spread and location of anticipated new cases, with low and middle income countries tipped to see the biggest increases. Large parts of Africa are estimated to see more than a 100 percent increase in cases requiring chemotherapy by 2040, while West Asia is expected to see a 99 percent increase. According to the figures, the most common cancers requiring chemotherapy in 2040 will be lung with a 16.4 percent increase to 2.5 million cases, followed by breast cancer and colorectal cancer. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 10:20:59|Editor: Liangyu Video Player Close COLOMBO, May 9 (Xinhua) -- China has donated 10 police vehicles to Sri Lankan government as part of the security cooperation between the two countries. The 10 police vehicles were handed over to Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena by Chinese Ambassador to Sri Lanka Cheng Xueyuan at the Presidential Secretariat in Colombo on Wednesday. Sirisena expressed his thanks to China for offering the timely help. He said the police vehicles will help the local law enforcement better conduct anti-terror missions and maintain public order and security. The Chinese ambassador also thanked the Sri Lankan police for their contribution to the local people, as well as their assistance to the Chinese and the Chinese institutions in Sri Lanka. Cheng said, "I wish these vehicles, which symbolize China-Sri Lanka friendship, could drive the practical cooperation between two countries to even brighter future." Sri Lanka's Acting Police Chief Chandana Wickramaratne also attended the handover ceremony. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 10:36:18|Editor: mingmei Video Player Close AUCKLAND, May 9 (Xinhua) -- The 2019 China Tourism & Culture Week Auckland Breakfast and the China-New Zealand Year of Tourism Chongqing Tourism Promotion kicked off in New Zealand's Auckland on Thursday. Zhang Changhong, head of the Chongqing Municipal Commission of Culture and Tourism Development delegation, said in her speech that Chongqing is an important strategic area for the development of China's western region. It is currently working hard on upgrading its tourism resources. "Chongqing is rich in tourism resources. It has magnificent natural scenery comprising mountains, rivers, forests, springs, waterfalls, gorges and caves. It also has its own Chongqing culture, minority ethnic group culture, immigrant culture, Three Gorges culture, and food culture," said Zhang. According to the "City Travel and Tourism Impact Report" published by the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) in 2017 and 2018, Chongqing has been first in the top 10 cities with the fastest growing tourism industry in terms of direct contribution to GDP. Chongqing will hold the China Western Tourism Industry Expo in June, and the 2019 Chongqing Global Travel Business Conference in November. Guo Zongguang, director of the China Cultural Centre in New Zealand, acknowledged that the promotion is not only part of the China-New Zealand Year of Tourism, it is also one in a series of events marking "China Culture and Tourism Week," simultaneously celebrated across 34 China Cultural Centres and 19 tourist offices around the world. "The data shows that the number of people traveling between China and New Zealand reached nearly 600,000 in 2018. China continues to be New Zealand's second largest overseas travel market, and one of its fastest growing. Promotion may inspire some of our New Zealand friends to travel there and see it first hand," said Guo. Michael Stoke, Business Events Bid Executive, Tourism New Zealand, stressed that China has become the second largest source of tourists in New Zealand. The number of visitors from China reached a record 436,000 in the past year as of the end of April 2019. The Chongqing Tourism Promotion Conference will help the two countries to share high-quality tourism resources and promote tourism and economic cooperation. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 10:56:27|Editor: mingmei Video Player Close RIO DE JANEIRO, May 8 (Xinhua) -- The Brazilian government announced on Wednesday the donation of 7,000 doses of anti-rabies vaccines to Haiti. According to an official statement published by the Brazilian Foreign Ministry, the donation was made upon request of the Haitian government. The vaccine shipment's to Haiti's capital city Port-au-Prince was funded by the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO). "Brazil donated 7,000 doses of human anti-rabies vaccine provided by the Ministry of Health to Haiti yesterday, in response to a request from the Haitian government," said the statement. According to the ministry, a similar operation occurred in 2017, when 15,000 doses of the same vaccine were delivered to Haiti, which was seeing surging fatalities amid a rabies outbreak. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 11:01:32|Editor: mingmei Video Player Close SEOUL, May 9 (Xinhua) -- Military officials from South Korea, the United States and Japan on Thursday held trilateral security talks in Seoul to discuss the Korean Peninsula issues, according to local media reports citing South Korean defense ministry. The 11th round of Defense Trilateral Talks (DTT) opened in the morning at the headquarters of South Korea's defense ministry in Seoul. The annual security dialogue was launched in 2008 to discuss regional security issues. During the dialogue, the three sides will discuss ways to cooperate in the denuclearization of and the establishment of lasting peace on the Korean Peninsula, regional security situations and the trilateral defense cooperation. The meeting was attended by South Korean Deputy Minister for National Defense Policy Chung Suk-hwan, U.S. Assistant Secretary of Defense for Indo-Pacific Security Affairs Randall Schriver and Takeshi Ishikawa, director general for defense policy of Japan. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 11:06:41|Editor: mingmei Video Player Close PYONGYANG, May 9 (Xinhua) -- The Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) has said the strike drill conducted Saturday was a "routine" one and that no one has the right to condemn it, the official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported Wednesday. The remarks were made by a spokesman of the delegation of the DPRK's side for the north-south general-level military talks and a spokesperson for the DPRK's Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Wednesday, according to the KCNA. The Korean People's Army (KPA) conducted a strike drill in which large-caliber long-range multiple rocket launchers and tactical guided weapons were used. The drill "was conducted within the territorial waters of the DPRK according to a plan of KPA routine drill," said the spokesman from the KPA. The spokesperson of the Foreign Ministry also stressed that the military drill was a "routine and self-defensive" one. "The recent drill conducted by our army is nothing more than part of the regular military training, and it has neither targeted anyone nor led to an aggravation of situation in the region," said the spokesperson of the Foreign Ministry. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 11:11:43|Editor: mingmei Video Player Close YANGON, May 9 (Xinhua) -- Thirty-five more detainees, suspected of linking with an ethnic insurgent group, the Arakan Army (AA), have been freed after they were found not in connection with the group, said a release of the Office of the Commander-in-Chief of the Defense Services late Wednesday. The release of the 35 suspects on Wednesday, following the 174 freed two days earlier, has brought the total released to 209 out of 275 detained. They were put in custody at a school in Kyauktan village, Yathedaung township of western Rakhine state for interrogation by the military and the police. Of the remaining suspects, four confessed to being members of the AA, and they have been transferred to Sittway, the capital of Rakhine state for further legal action, the military office said. At the end of April, Myanmar military found and defused more landmines planted by AA near Kyauktaw township on Kyauktaw-Mrauk U road as the security forces conducted search in its security operation. Using small and heavy arms, the AA launched repeated attacks on a military headquarters and a security gate in Mrauk U township from within Baungdote village in the township on April 27, prompting the security forces to return fire and leaving one AA member dead. Meanwhile, Myanmar military announced on April 30 extending the suspension period of all its military action against armed groups in five military command areas for another two months until June 30. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 11:16:49|Editor: mingmei Video Player Close CHICAGO, May 8 (Xinhua) -- U.S. soy farmers have urged Washington to work for a positive solution to the current tariff dispute with the world's top oilseed buyer China, and avoid further escalation of trade tensions. In a statement released late Tuesday, the American Soybean Association (ASA) described the threat by U.S. President Donald Trump's administration to increase the tariff rate from 10 percent to 25 percent on 200 billion U.S. dollar worth of Chinese goods as the "worst case" for U.S. soybean growers. "This is a predicament for soy growers," said Davie Stephens, ASA president and a soybean farmer from Kentucky. "With depressed (soybean) prices and unsold stocks forecast to double before the 2019 harvest begins in September, we need the China market reopened to U.S. soybean exports within weeks, not months or longer," he added. In the statement, the ASA urged Washington to hold off on additional tariffs and rapidly conclude negotiations with China, including lifting the existing Section 301 tariffs in exchange for China removing its retaliatory 25 percent tariff on U.S. soybeans. "We need a positive resolution of this ongoing tariff dispute, not further escalation of tensions," Stephens was quoted as saying. The United States announced Wednesday that it would raise tariffs on 200 billion U.S. dollars worth of Chinese goods from 10 percent to 25 percent, effective on May 10. China on Wednesday expressed regrets over the planned measures in a statement, saying "China deeply regrets this, and will be forced to take necessary countermeasures if the U.S. side puts the tariff measures into effect." The Chinese Commerce Ministry also confirmed earlier this week that at the invitation of U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin, Chinese Vice Premier Liu He, who is also chief of the Chinese side of the China-U.S. comprehensive economic dialogue, will visit the Untied States on Thursday and Friday to attend the 11th round of the bilateral consultation on trade issues. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 11:16:51|Editor: Liangyu Video Player Close HOUSTON, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Private enterprises should shoulder their responsibility as pioneers in China's reform and economic development, a senior executive of a private Chinese energy service company said here on Wednesday. During the Offshore Technology Conference (OTC), the world's largest annual oil and gas trade show, Wang Feng, vice president of Jereh, a global group specializing in oil & gas, power and environmental management, said Chinese private-owned companies such as Jereh should play as a "new force" in the country's economic development. "No matter in terms of innovation or social-economic structure, private enterprises should be pioneers in economic development," he told Xinhua. This year, Chinese participants in OTC include state-run leading companies such as China National Offshore Oil Corporation and China National Petroleum Corporation, as well as private enterprises from across the country. The technical program of the four-day event includes more than 80 technical sessions, industry breakfasts and themed luncheons covering a wide range of topics. This year's new program, Around the World Series, features industry leaders from Australia, Canada, Britain, France, Ghana, Guyana, Israel, Mexico and Norway to discuss new licensing and business opportunities, as well as recently introduced technologies. Founded in 1969, OTC provides a platform for energy professionals to exchange thoughts to advance scientific and technical knowledge on offshore resources and environmental matters. This year's OTC is held in Houston on May 6-9. Photo taken on July 3, 2017 shows the Sahiwal coal-fired power plant in Sahiwal in Pakistan's eastern province of Punjab. (Xinhua/Liu Tian) by Misbah Saba Malik ISLAMABAD, May 7 (Xinhua) -- Rafaqat Ali, 24, was born in a poor family in Sahiwal district of Pakistan's east Punjab province. His father's meager income restrained Ali from getting education, leaving no choice for him but to work as a laborer to support the family. "My father and grandfather were plumbers so I inherited this profession. I used to work as a plumber in my village when one day I came to know that a Chinese company is launching a power project in Sahiwal," Ali told Xinhua, adding that he applied for the job of a plumber in the company and was immediately selected by the Chinese. Located in Sahiwal, the coal-fired Sahiwal power plant is a key project under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). Completed in the record period of 22 months, it is the first coal-fired power plant completed under the CPEC. Ali impressed his Chinese colleagues with his hard work and dedication, who promoted him to the slot of the manager of labor management. "CPEC has been a game-changer for me, before getting the job in the Sahiwal power project, no one even noticed the guy (Ali) who would repair taps in their kitchens and washrooms, no one liked to talk to him, but now everyone likes to meet the 'new me' who has money and who works as a small boss in a big Chinese company," said Ali. The CPEC has provided employment opportunities to Ali and many others like him, who were either unemployed or underpaid. CPEC projects have created more than 75,000 direct job opportunities for Pakistani people. The project also created thousands of other employment opportunities to promote economic development and employment of Pakistan by subcontracting a large number of projects to local Pakistani companies. In a conversation with Xinhua, Bilal Chaudhry, manager of human resource development in the Sahiwal power plant, said that the CPEC project has helped uplift the life of common laborers who could hardly make 6,000-8,000 (about 42-56 U.S. dollars) a month. "The unskilled laborers employed by us now take home minimum 18,000 rupees (about 127 U.S. dollars) which gets increased based on their performance, and we also provide them free food, free accommodation and free transportation." He said that the life of local laborers has changed for better after joining the project because they earn more money than before, they can send their children to school and buy good clothes for them. Talking to Xinhua about the forthcoming employment opportunities, Muhammad Muzammil Zia, policy head of job growth and human resource development in the CPEC Centre of Excellence, said that a huge demand for white collar and blue collar jobs will emerge after the initiation of the industrial phase of CPEC in nine special economic zones (SEZs) proposed under the CPEC. The CPEC Centre of Excellence is an Islamabad-based think tank working under Pakistan's Ministry of Planning, Development and Reform. The SEZs will bring new opportunities as well as challenges for Pakistani labor as with the immense industrialization, demand for skilled labor will increase, Zia said, adding that Chinese companies and Pakistan's state-run institutions are teaching local laborers skills to help them avail employment opportunities in the industrial sector. According to Pakistan's Ministry of Planning, Development and Reform, the Pakistani market has the ninth largest labor force in the world with an estimate of 61 million workers, out of which 5.9 percent are unemployed. Out of the total labor force, about 43 percent is associated with the agriculture sector, 20 percent work for the industrial sector while the remaining, about 37 percent do miscellaneous labor work. The increased demand for skillful labor is currently a challenge for Pakistan, as the country's Education Minister Shafqat Mahmood recently said that each year, around 2.5 million people enter the local job market while the majority of them lack necessary skills to meet the demands of the local industry. The National Vocational and Technical Training Commission recently said in a statement that the country's system has a capacity to produce only 445,000 skilled laborers annually. To bridge up this gap, Chinese companies are providing on-job training to raw laborers to make them meet the demands of the industry. Chaudhry told Xinhua that at the peak time of the Sahiwal project, they hired 3,000 laborers and provided them on-job training to equip them with basic skills for working in the industrial sector. "The laborers we trained are now working at good positions in other companies including power projects. They got quick promotions in whatever companies they went, some of them are now even training other local staff in their respective companies," he said. In a conversation with Xinhua, Dileep Kumar, mine manager in Thar coalfield, said that they hired raw laborers and gave them training courses to help them work in the power project. "Some Chinese engineers trained raw local laborers for three months free of cost, then they were given on-field technical training during which they were also paid basic salaries." "The number of skilled labor in Thar used to be less than one percent. After the CPEC project, now more than 80 percent of laborers are trained. You can imagine how their life has changed and how their confidence has been boosted," said Kumar. "They are skilled now, even if they don't want to work with us, they have a vast scope in the market, and they can get job anywhere." Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 11:42:07|Editor: ZX Video Player Close Philippine Communications Secretary Martin Andanar, also chief of the Philippine Presidential Communications Operations Office, reads a book "2019 China Report ASEAN" compiled and printed by China International Publishing Group (CIPG) during an interview with Xinhua News Agency at his office in Manila, Philippines, May 7, 2019. The Philippines underscores the importance of the Conference on Dialogue of Asian Civilizations (CDAC) that will take place in Beijing in May, and the conference will foster understanding among Asian countries in charting a shared future, Martin Andanar has said. (Xinhua/Yuan Mengchen) MANILA, May 9 (Xinhua) -- The Philippines underscores the importance of the Conference on Dialogue of Asian Civilizations (CDAC) that will take place in Beijing in May, and the conference will foster understanding among Asian countries in charting a shared future, a Philippine official has said. "The conference will build our relations with different countries," Philippine Communications Secretary Martin Andanar told Xinhua in an interview, adding that China initiated the people-to-people, cultural exchanges for different countries to prosper and to give Asian countries the opportunity to grow together. Andanar, also chief of the Philippine Presidential Communications Operations Office, will attend the conference scheduled on May 15. The CDAC focuses on the theme of exchanges and mutual learning among Asian civilizations, as well as a community with a shared future for Asia and for humanity. For Andanar, the major theme of the conference is about respect. "I believe that's the true meaning of this dialogue. It's about respecting each other's civilizations. So, I guess this is a testament to how China respects our different civilizations, our different cultures and traditions." Andanar said the conference is timely. "As Asians we must seize the opportunity, the moment that we have been waiting for," he said, adding the time is right "for everybody to wear each other's cultures, traditions, peoples because before we can even change the entire civilization, or maybe contribute to the betterment of the human race, we, as Asians, must understand each other." Exchanges between Asian civilizations date back to ancient times. Andanar said the ancient Silk Road trading routes that bind China to Asia has played a major role in the development of the different civilizations in the world, including the Philippines. "We all have unique cultures, and we all have unique forms of running our own affairs but what is important to me is that this is the moment of Asia. We must seize the opportunity, the moment for us to shine the world stage, and when we shine in the world stage it is important for us to know each other or to revisit our civilizations, to be familiar with the civilization that has contributed to our growth," he said. "For us to revisit the Silk Road or the introduction of the Belt and Road Initiatives is a must for us to be familiar with each other. And it is only when we are familiar with each other's civilizations that we can stand as one Asia, and have the same understanding, the commonality of improving the human race," Andanar said. The warm relations that the Philippines and China are experiencing "have been very progressive and very active for the people and cultural exchanges," Andanar noted. "We already had that strong bilateral relation, or trading relations, mercantile relations, and for some time when the Philippines was westernized we lost that very important part of our history. But when it's running in our veins and it's in our blood it's easy to genetically go back where we were and reintroduce our two cultures, our two civilizations," he said. Andanar said the exchanges between Manila and Beijing in recent years have been "unprecedented." "It has been inspiring for all of us especially that we are dealing with the second biggest economy in the world," Andanar said. "Beginning the administration of President (Rodrigo) Duterte we have really seen the growth and the reintroduction (of Chinese culture and tradition) to our people," he said. "The cooperation has never been better." For instance, he said the closer ties paved the way for more media exchanges leading to more first-hand experience about the Chinese culture and vice versa. "There's so much geopolitics happening and we must set aside geopolitics to really understand China and its role in the Asian region and the world," Andanar added. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 12:02:19|Editor: mingmei Video Player Close YANGON, May 9 (Xinhua) -- Three women have been arrested in Myanmar's former capital of Yangon for trying to send methamphetamine (ICE) to a foreign country through express mail service, according to the Yangon General Post Office late on Wednesday. The three women attempted to ship 70 packets of methamphetamine weighing 1.32 kilograms at the post office on Tuesday. While inspecting the shipment, customs officials found white methamphetamine crystals worth over 105 million kyats (70,000 U.S. dollars). The three sender women were handed over to the police and investigation into the case is underway. Meanwhile, Myanmar's anti-narcotic force also seized 5.6 kilograms of methamphetamine worth 560 million kyats (373,333 U.S. dollars) from a passenger at the Yangon International Airport on April 30. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 12:42:32|Editor: mingmei Video Player Close HAVANA, May 8 (Xinhua) -- A few days after the activation by the U.S. government of an act to dash foreign investment in Cuba, international companies in the island country still plan to stay and expand their business. Washington made the decision to activate the full weight of the Helms-Burton Act against Cuba last week, which authorizes U.S. nationals to file lawsuits over properties nationalized or confiscated by the Cuban government. The Helms-Burton Act, which basically punishes U.S. and foreign companies that do business with Cuba, came into force in 1996, but most U.S. administrations did not apply Title III until recently. "The embargo and the Helms-Burton Act don't worry me at all. I have been told that I am already on a list and the U.S. government will deny me permission to enter their country, but I can live perfectly without traveling there," Miguel Miralles, president of Spain's ROC Hotels told Xinhua. The firm has three facilities in Cuba -- two in the resort town of Varadero and the emblematic Hotel Presidente in the capital, inaugurated in 1928 as the city's first skyscraper. For Millares, the fact that the building in Havana can be subject to claims and lawsuits in the United States in accordance with the Act's provisions is not a cause for concern. "I believe that Cuba is a unique tourism product in the Caribbean, and we want to expand our business here. We came to stay and no foreign law will make us leave," he said. Diego De Conti, Cuba sales and marketing director at France's Accor Group, said the island is a very attractive destination for international visitors, particularly in Europe and Asia. The Accor Group, with more than four decades of experience and around 4,500 hotels in almost 100 countries, has one beach resort in central Cuba and will start managing the country's third luxury hotel next September. "We are promoting hotels, (and) we don't engage in political debates. However, I can assure that at least from the European market we are not perceiving any limitation, and we don't expect any problems with the new U.S. measures," he said. The first lawsuits were already filed last week in Miami, home to thousands of Cuban exiles, against Carnival Cruise Lines for the use of port facilities in Havana and the eastern city of Santiago. Another facility whose former owners and their descendants want to claim is Havana's Jose Marti International Airport. Every year, there are more than 50 international carriers here working to connect the island's capital with 36 destinations in the world. Interjet, a Mexican airline, is one of the carriers operating for a decade which plans to expand its flights after the U.S. activation. "We are the Mexican airline with the most operations at Havana's airport. We have up to 7 daily flights from different cities, and we see great prospects to add more connections in the future," Jimy Izaguirre, Interjet's commercial manager told Xinhua. For Patricia Santana, product manager of Cuba Travel Services, the situation is complex as she operates an exclusive travel agency from the United States for two decades. She said the company aspires to continue expanding services in the island abiding by regulations of the Office for Foreign Assets Control which belongs to the U.S. Department of Treasury. "We have to wait for the new guidelines but it definitely scares the American citizens. Because if the government says you shouldn't travel to Cuba or there will be changes to the regulations ... it's a worrisome subject," Santana told Xinhua. The United States has for decades banned its citizens from traveling to the island for tourism purposes. Currently, U.S. citizens can only travel to Cuba under 12 licenses that include educational, cultural and religious purposes, among others. U.S.-Cuba relations have deteriorated since U.S. President Donald Trump took office and rolled back the detente initiated by his predecessor Barack Obama. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 12:47:34|Editor: mingmei Video Player Close by Claudio Tamisari ROME, May 8 (Xinhua) -- As the tensions between the United States and Iran are increasing, some European experts on Wednesday jointly called on Washington to rejoin the Iran nuclear deal, saying "rejoining is wiser than destroying." Released exactly a year after U.S. President Donald Trump's decision to withdraw from the deal, the joint call was signed by 21 European experts affiliated to various think tanks from 10 countries of the European Union (EU), and coordinated by Riccardo Alcaro, research coordinator with Italy's Istituto Affari Internazionali (IAI), and Shatabhisha Shetty, deputy director with the British European Leadership Network (ELN). The Iran nuclear deal, formally known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), was struck in July 2015 between Iran, the P5 +1(the five permanent members of the United Nations Security Council--Britain, China, France, Russia,United States--plus Germany) and the European Union. The landmark deal substantially freezes Iran's nuclear program in exchange for lifting economic sanctions on the Mideast country. On May 8 last year, Trump announced U.S. withdrawal from the deal, saying it failed to prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons, and replaced it with a "maximum pressure" strategy that led to the re-imposition of the U.S. sanctions suspended under the JCPOA, including measures targeting foreign companies doing business with Iran. According to the experts, the withdrawal could hardly contribute to achieving Trump's objectives, while his decision has been harmful in several ways. First, it "undercut global non-proliferation efforts." According to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the United Nations nuclear watchdog is allowed by the deal to conduct regular inspections in Iran and Iran never violated the constraints on its nuclear program. However, if Iran restores its full nuclear program and limits IAEA's power, it would be harder to monitor its nuclear activities. Furthermore, Iran's restarting of nuclear program could lead other regional states to engage in a nuclear arms race. Second, the U.S. withdrawal "undermined the value of multilateral diplomacy." The JCPOA is an example of "effective multilateralism and successful diplomacy," as it involves countries with different foreign policy outlooks, while U.S. pressure strategy "devalues diplomacy as an effective way to address international disputes among rival states," said the experts. Third, Trump's decision "weakened international law and institutions." According to the experts, the nuclear deal derives its authority from the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) and the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT), while Washington's unilateral decision without proper cause sends the "message that international obligations can be disposed of at will." Fourth, it "harmed transatlantic solidarity." By pulling out of the deal and threatening punishments against EU companies and banks doing business with Iran, Trump has shown disregard for Europe's interests and "eroded trust in the transatlantic partnership," said the experts. Fifth, it "contributed to exacerbating regional tensions." By replacing the JCPOA with the "maximum pressure" strategy, the United States galvanized Iran's rivals and made a compromise solution with Tehran less attractive. If Iran leaves the JCPOA, the experts believe, the Middle East will face a greater risk of military escalation. Sixth, the U.S. decision has "inflicted undue pain on the Iranian population." With the U.S. re-imposition of previous sanctions with extraterritorial effects, companies and banks are scared of doing business with Iran, leading to a decline in the living standards of the Iranian people, including scarcity of essential goods, such as food or medicine. As for the EU, despite the recent implementation of a special purpose vehicle (SPV) called INSTEX to facilitate humanitarian trade, Europeans should go further and establish another SPV to include oil imports from Iran, said the experts, adding that Europe should also deepen technical and political consultations with Iran. The U.S. rejoining of the Iran nuclear deal could help contain all the negative effects mentioned above, while recreating a more cohesive international coalition that will work for the Middle East security, they said. According to the experts, Europe could play a crucial role in future diplomatic initiatives with Iran, which are expected to ensure "multilateralism to be effective, international law and agreements must be respected." Recently, the United States deployed an aircraft carrier group and bombers to the Middle East in a move it said to thwart a "credible threat" from Iran. Largely in response to the U.S. re-imposition of sanctions, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani on Wednesday announced that Iran would begin to build up stockpiles of its enriched uranium and heavy water, but "It doesn't mean that Iran leaves the nuclear agreement." The Iranian move is stopping the compliance with two of its commitments under the nuclear deal. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 13:58:22|Editor: mingmei Video Player Close WASHINGTON, May 8 (Xinhua) -- A series of events and activities will be held in the western U.S. state of Utah later this week and beyond to mark the 150th anniversary of the completion of the nation's First Transcontinental Railroad, which wouldn't have been possible without the contribution of thousands of Chinese workers. The major event will be a three-day festival starting Friday at Promontory Summit, an area of high ground roughly 100 km northwest of Salt Lake City, where the golden spike, often referred to as the Last Spike, of the railroad was ceremonially driven in on May 10, 1869. The Golden Spike National Historical Park is located there. It will feature speeches, historical reenactments, steam locomotive shows, and music performances, among other things, as part of a statewide celebration that also includes exhibitions and fora on the railroad, its historic significance and the contribution of early Chinese immigrants to the project, according to Spike 150, an initiative of Utah's Transcontinental Railroad 150th Celebration Commission. "Through a series of activities and events, the Spike 150 initiative aims to inspire, educate, and reflect on the Transcontinental Railroad legacy," the initiative said on its website. The First Transcontinental Railroad, also known as the Pacific Railroad, was a 3,000-km-plus continuous railroad line constructed between the year of 1863 and 1869 connecting the existing U.S. rail network with the Pacific coast. The Central Pacific Railroad, a company tasked with constructing the western half of the Transcontinental Railroad, began hiring Chinese workers in 1864 after facing a labor shortage that jeopardized the railroad's completion, according to the Chinese Railroad Workers in North America Project at San Francisco-based Stanford University. Thousands of Chinese railroad builders laid the 1,110-km track between Sacramento, California, and Promontory, Utah, contributing greatly to the completion of the transcontinental railroad, an engineering marvel that helped shape the physical and social landscape of the American West. The builders worked under extreme conditions and in dangerous areas but were paid poorly and subject to discrimination during the construction. Details of their lives had remained largely unknown until recent years. "Without the Chinese migrants, the Transcontinental Railroad would not have been possible," Gordon Chang, professor of American history at Stanford University and co-director of the research project, has recently told Xinhua. The U.S. Department of Labor honored 12,000 Chinese railroad workers in 2014 by registering them in the agency's Hall of Honor. "Their efforts, which connected the western United States to the eastern United States, laid the foundation for the extraordinary economic prosperity enjoyed by the United States in the years that followed," the agency said on its website. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 14:13:36|Editor: mingmei Video Player Close WASHINGTON, May 8 (Xinhua) -- A bipartisan group of 159 U.S. lawmakers wrote to National Economic Council Director Larry Kudlow on Wednesday, urging him to advise President Donald Trump against imposing tariffs on imported cars and car parts. The lawmakers are led by Representative Terri Sewell from the southeastern U.S. state of Alabama, where auto manufacturers are a powerful driver of the local economy. Directed by Trump, the Department of Commerce launched an investigation in May 2018 to look into whether imports of vehicles and auto parts threaten to impair U.S. national security, a move based on Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962. Since the department submitted the report on Feb. 17, Trump has 90 days to decide whether to take action. "American auto manufacturers, parts suppliers and retailers, dealers, and vehicle service providers have not asked for and do not need protection," the lawmakers said. They told Kudlow that the U.S. auto sector employs nearly 4 percent of the country's total private sector workforce and is a key engine that powers the U.S. economy. "However, if tariffs were to be implemented, new vehicle prices will likely increase, threatening hundreds of thousands of jobs," they warned. The lawmakers also expressed the concern that vehicles outside the scope of the Section 232 investigation will also be subject to tariffs, as parts of passenger vehicles "may overlap with motorcycles, recreational vehicles, construction equipment, heavy-duty trucks, farming equipment, powersports vehicles, and others." In addition, the tariff measure will result in "inevitable retaliatory tariffs from countries around the world," they said, and such retaliations "will cause further harm to American farmers, manufacturers, and consumers." "Tariffs on autos will raise prices for American consumers and lower demand, ultimately leading to decreased U.S. production, investment and employment," the lawmakers said, urging the administration to do everything possible to "avoid trade restrictions that would negatively impact the U.S. auto sector and undermine our economic security." Representing the 7th congressional district of the Alabama, Sewell, together with others, has filed a bipartisan legislation to delay auto tariffs, according to information carried by Sewell's personal website. The legislation requires that the U.S. International Trade Commission conduct a comprehensive study on the economic importance of automotive manufacturing in the United States before tariffs on automobiles and auto parts could be applied. The Democratic congresswoman is also the lead sponsor of the bipartisan, bicameral Trade Security Act, which would reform Section 232 to increase Congressional oversight in the Section 232 process and reassign national security threat assessments to the Department of Defense. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 14:23:40|Editor: mingmei Video Player Close WASHINGTON, May 8 (Xinhua) -- The White House announced on Wednesday that the United States is imposing sanctions targeting the iron, steel, aluminum, and copper sectors of Iran, in a new bid to mount pressure on the Islamic republic. "Today, I am signing an executive order to impose sanctions with respect to Iran's iron, steel, aluminum, and copper sectors, the regime's largest non-petroleum-related sources of export revenue," U.S. President Donald Trump announced in a statement. The sanctions targeted 10 percent of Iran's export economy, said the statement, adding that "Tehran can expect further actions unless it fundamentally alters its conduct." Brian Hook, the U.S. special representative for Iran, also said at a conference on the same day that Washington would continue the "maximum pressure" against Iran until Tehran "changes behavior." Hook also noted that the United States would seek to reach "a new and better deal" with Iran, which would be presented to Congress to ratify as a treaty. The U.S. sanctions on Iran's metal sectors constituted the latest move of the U.S. "maximum pressure" campaign against Iran, which came on the one-year mark of the Trump administration's decision to withdraw from the Iran nuclear deal. Last month, Washington ratcheted up pressure against Tehran by designating Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), including its Qods Force, as a Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO). Currently, it has fully resumed sanctions on Iran's oil exports. Besides, the U.S. side on Sunday announced that it was deploying an aircraft carrier group and bombers to the Middle East, accusing Iran of posing a threat to Washington and its allies in the region. In response, IRGC Chief Commander Hossein Salami vowed to give an "unforgettable lesson to the hostile moves of the Iranian enemies," the Tehran Times daily reported on Tuesday. Although senior U.S. officials claimed that Washington is not seeking war with Tehran, some are concerned about the danger of the escalating tension. U.S. Senator Tim Kaine criticized in a statement that the Trump administration in recent months "has taken a series of actions to increase tensions, including misrepresenting the regular deployment of the USS Abraham Lincoln as a warning to Iran." Tehran has adopted a hardline stance in the face of intensified U.S. threats and pressure. In a televised speech on Wednesday, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said that Iran would begin to build up stockpiles of its enriched uranium and heavy water. "It doesn't mean that Iran leaves the nuclear agreement, known as Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA)," Rouhani said. Iran will wait for 60 days to start negotiations with the JCPOA signatories over its economic interests enshrined by the nuclear deal, including its oil sales and international banking transactions, said Rouhani, adding that if Iran achieves no results after 60 days, it will take two more counter-measures. The European Union last week reiterated its support for the JCPOA. In response to the U.S. pressure, Iran's oil trading partners in Europe are looking to the implementation of an EU-designed payment channel. The Middle East countries such as Qatar and Turkey also oppose unilateral U.S. sanctions, with Turkey seeking a bartering system to pass through the sanctions to continue its trade with Iran. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 14:43:55|Editor: mingmei Video Player Close TOKYO, May 9 (Xinhua) -- Tokyo stocks closed lower Thursday tracking declines in U.S. shares overnight, as investors' concerns about the outlook for the global economy intensified. The 225-issue Nikkei Stock Average dropped 200.46 points, or 0.93 percent, from Wednesday to close the day at 21,402.13. The broader Topix index of all First Section issues on the Tokyo Stock Exchange, meanwhile, lost 21.62 points, or 1.38 percent, to finish at 1,550.71. Farm and fishery, electric power and gas, and marine transportation-linked issues comprised those that declined the most by the close of play. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 15:09:08|Editor: Xiaoxia Video Player Close LANZHOU, May 9 (Xinhua) -- In Northwest China's Gansu province known for arid climate, potatoes are a main crop that, however, had failed to create much fortune for growers in the past. About 15 years ago, when Li Xingze began to chair the Lantian potato industry group (Lantian group) in Dingxi city, the biggest challenge to run the company was that there were few quality potatoes available on the market. The situation had existed for years. Potato farmers used to sell their produce to dealers, but instead of paying cash, dealers issued IOUs in many cases and farmers ended up with no income by the end of the year. Li Caihua has been growing potatoes for over two decades. "All I got were a bunch of IOUs, I disliked the dealers but had no other choice," she said. The biggest loser in the long run of the IOU practice was potato companies, because no farmers were willing to sell their produce any longer, and many had given up on growing potatoes. So Li Xingze came up with a new pattern by signing contracts with local cooperatives and purchasing potatoes directly from the growers. "We depend on the farmers to make profits. If they abandon the land, what can we do?" he said. "We encourage farmers to grow high starch potatoes by providing them seeds and subsidies and purchase at higher prices, so the growers can have more income." Li Caihua joined a local cooperative last year. She sold all her potatoes to Li Xingze's company and was paid tens of thousands yuan in cash on the spot. "Never do I have to worry about the sale of my potatoes," she said. More than 50,000 households have registered with Lantian group, of which over 5,000 are low-income families. The total potato growing area tops 6,600 hectares in Dingxi and over 6,000 such cooperatives have been established across the city. Now Li Xingze is nicknamed "Mr. Potato," as his company produces a quarter of the country's potato starch on the market. Liu Xiaoping, a local official of Xingyuan township, said the new pattern had attracted more locals to grow potatoes. "Every October when the potatoes are ripe, there is a long queue of growers riding tricycles to sell potatoes. Sometimes it can be over 200 cars and we are busy until midnight," Liu said. Quality produce brings Li Xingze more profit. In 2010, Lantian group was just one of the small potato starch companies in Dingxi. Last year, Lantian had become the biggest potato starch producer in China. Farmers have also seen their purse getting bigger. The average income of local growers was 20,000 yuan (2,947 U.S. dollars) last year, 8,300 yuan higher than the previous year. "We hope that we and the growers can become partners of mutual benefit, and together we can help promote the development of the local economy," Li Xingze said. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 15:14:13|Editor: ZX Video Player Close BEIJING, May 9 (Xinhua) -- Lei Xuele, a senior high school student, went into rapture after learning he could continue his passion for robots at college. "I'm interested in programming since I was a little boy, and have been taking many related extracurricular courses," said Lei, from No. 1 Middle School in Meishan, southwest China's Sichuan Province. Starting this year, Chinese college candidates interested in AI will have more choices in undergraduate programs as 35 universities nationwide roll out AI majors with the approval of the Ministry of Education. "The outcome is mainly driven by businesses instead of the academic circle," said Jiang Min, a professor with the Department of Cognitive Science and Technology of Xiamen University. "It reflects the increasing demand for AI application research and talents," he said. "The conditions for creating AI majors have matured," Jiang noted. "Chinese researchers keep abreast with the latest development in international academic circles, which serves as the foundation to set up such programs." China sees AI as an innovation focus that will spark technological breakthroughs. In July 2017, the State Council, the cabinet, issued a development plan for the new generation of AI and listed accelerating the cultivation of top-notch AI talents as a primary task. The move was embraced by business insiders who believe it will help make up the talent gap they have faced in recent years. Guo Changchen, founder of Keeko Robot Technology Co. Ltd., a Xiamen-based company developing robots for education services, said the training of AI engineers was time-consuming and expensive. "We have to start from the scratch because they have no prior knowledge or experience," Guo said. China's AI market is expected to reach 96 billion yuan (about 14.18 billion U.S. dollars) at the end of this year, according to a report by the Economic Information Daily. Amid thriving commercialization of AI-related technologies, businesses want a large number of professionals. There is a deficit of at least 1 million AI professionals in China, according to the estimate of the Tencent Research Institute and Boss Zhipin, an online hiring and job-hunting platform. AI businesses need talents at different expertise levels, not only top professionals in computing logic and algorithms, but also people to do technical jobs like data collecting or primary processing, according to Guo. "With more undergraduates majoring in AI, we can have more choices and hire more affordable personnel," he said. There is consensus that businesses and universities can work in concerted efforts to foster talents, satisfying industry demand and further academic research. "China's huge population creates unprecedented data dividends, which can be harnessed to optimize algorithms," Guo said, noting that the research results can be applied to empower manufacturing and service sectors. Xu Weiwei, a researcher on AI and computer graphics with Zhejiang University, however, suggests universities remain prudent in launching AI programs. "They should reasonably evaluate their academic foundation and teaching capabilities and make long-term plans before taking actions," he said. Jiang Min agrees. "New challenges in terms of possible adverse impacts on ethics, information security and privacy should be taken into account when making plans for such programs." Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 15:14:14|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close SUVA, May 9 (Xinhua) -- It is defense ministers' prerogative to ensure the maintenance of security, sovereignty and territorial integrity of not only their individual states, but also that of the Pacific region, Fiji's Defense Minister said on Thursday. Speaking at the opening of 4th South Pacific Defense Ministers Meeting (SPDMM) in Nadi, Fiji's third largest city, where climate change and regional security top the agenda, Fiji's Minister for Defense, National Security and Foreign Affairs Inia Seruiratu said that this could be achieved through collaboration on defense capability modernization and collective situational analysis and sharing of pertinent, timely and quality information on defense and security issues. Pacific Leaders in 2018 forged a new regional security arrangement recognizing climate change as the single greatest non-traditional threat to the livelihoods, security and wellbeing of the people in the Pacific region, he said. The minister stressed that this is an important step forward for the region in the fight against climate change and the ball is now in their court at the SPDMM to be able to provide strategic leadership and guidance to the climate change and security nexus of the region. The biennial forum, which is expect to end on Friday, involves defense ministers from Fiji, Australia, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Tonga, France and Chile with the United States and Britain as observers. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 15:34:24|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close SUVA, May 9 (Xinhua) -- Fijian police are warning people including tourists to be vigilant especially in towns and cities as there are criminals going around attacking people for money and any valuables. Fiji's Commissioner of Police Sitiveni Qiliho has made an urgent call for people to be security conscious while moving around cities and towns and to report any suspicious cases of opportunists. According to Fijivillage website on Thursday, Qiliho made the call following the resurfacing of cases where people in Fiji are being mugged, attacked and robbed in the capital city of Suva, especially at night with the latest case being of a man, returning from work, was brutally assaulted at the Suva Foreshore. Qiliho said opportunists are loitering around, looking at areas where they can exploit to their advantage, and he calls on the public to avoid loitering in isolated areas. He said they are also encouraging business owners to put up surveillance cameras to help curb crimes. Qiliho said discussions were going on between police, the Suva City Council and the Suva Retailers Association on putting up CCTV cameras around the capital city. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 15:39:30|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close SUVA, May 9 (Xinhua) -- Fiji Airways, the national carrier of the South Pacific island country, confirmed on Thursday that the airline's Boeing 737800 leased from Miami Air last month will resume operating flights from Thursday. Fiji Airways said that this decision came following a series of safety assessments and after receiving clearance from the Civil Aviation regulatory Authority of Fiji. The chartered Miami Air aircraft was brought in to operate some flights on behalf of Fiji Airways between Nadi and Auckland, Apia, Christchurch and Brisbane, subject to regulatory approval. Fiji Airways leased the Boeing 737-800 aircraft from Miami Air to cover some of its schedules due to the temporary grounding of its two Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft in March this year after an Ethiopian Airlines' such passenger plane crashed and killed 157 victims onboard. Fiji Airways stopped the service of its Boeing 737-800 aircraft on Sunday after a Boeing 737-800 aircraft operated by Miami Air slid off the runway into a river after landing in Jacksonville, the U.S state of Florida during a thunderstorm on Friday night. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 15:59:37|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close CARACAS, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Venezuela's Supreme Court of Justice (TSJ) on Wednesday "categorically and forcefully" rejected the threat made by U.S. Vice President Mike Pence to sanction the magistrates if they don't oppose President Nicolas Maduro. In a statement read by TSJ President Maikel Moreno, the judicial body said that Pence "in a disrespectful and interfering manner seeks to subject the highest Venezuelan judicial authorities to threats that violate the principles of independence." Moreno said the U.S. vice president has proposed to the high-ranking Venezuelan judicial administrators to "be outside the Constitution as the supreme norm, in order to place the country at the service of imperialist interests." "This unlawful, despicable and intolerable action violates the norms and principles of international law that governs relations between nations," he said. "This TSJ reiterates its rejection at the constant onslaught of the U.S. empire against Venezuelan democratic institutions and urges them to immediately abandon their criminal policy against the Venezuela people," he said. The TSJ's response came one day after Pence said that the court is responsible for not applying the country's law and threatened to place sanctions on the judges. "If Venezuela's Supreme Court does not return to its constitutional mandate to defend the rule of law, the United States will hold its 25 judges accountable for their actions," said Pence. He assured that the U.S. government will sanction those who don't support the political transition and would "reward" those who do. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 15:59:45|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close SEOUL, May 9 (Xinhua) -- Stephen Biegun, U.S. special representative for the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) affairs, consulted with his South Korean counterpart here Thursday on the Korean Peninsula issues, local media reported. Biegun, who arrived here Wednesday, met earlier in the day with Lee Do-hoon, South Korean special representative for Korean Peninsula peace and security affairs, to exchange opinion about the peninsula situations. Biegun and Lee were believed to have discussed ways to provide Seoul's food assistance to the DPRK, according to local media. During the phone talks with South Korean President Moon Jae-in Tuesday, U.S. President Donald Trump expressed his support for Seoul's humanitarian food aid plan for the DPRK people, saying it would be timely and positive, according to the presidential Blue House of South Korea. Biegun's trip to Seoul came after the second summit between top DPRK leader Kim Jong Un and Trump ended with no agreement late February in Vietnamese capital of Hanoi. Kim Deuk-hwan, Seoul's foreign ministry deputy spokesman, told a press briefing that South Korea and the United States had a common view that the DPRK required the humanitarian food assistance for the DPRK people. Kim said the South Korean government will push for the humanitarian food aid for the DPRK in close cooperation with the international community, including the United States. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 16:15:03|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close BRUSSELS, May 9 (Xinhua) -- The European powers said on Thursday that they strongly urge Iran to continue to implement its commitments under the nuclear deal and reject any ultimatums. On Wednesday, Iran announced that it would suspend some promises it made under the deal. The United States withdrew from the Iran nuclear deal a year ago despite criticism by the international community including the United Nations. It also took a set of hostile measures against Iran. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 16:25:12|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close SEOUL, May 9 (Xinhua) -- The Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) fired unidentified projectiles eastward from its northwestern region at about 4:30 p.m. local time (0730 GMT) Thursday, South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) said. Confirming the local media reports, the JCS said in a short mobile message that the projectiles were launched from North Pyongan province, north of Pyongyang. It came just five days after the DPRK fired several short-range projectiles into the sea off its east coast Saturday. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 16:35:21|Editor: ZX Video Player Close SYDNEY, May 9 (Xinhua) -- One of China's leading universities has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with an Australia partner, to establish a new joint research hub focused on humanities, social sciences and China-related studies. Representatives from the East China Normal University (ECNU) in Shanghai traveled to Melbourne's La Trobe University for the official signing ceremony on Thursday. "East China Normal University is privileged to engage ourselves in this new extension of our longstanding partnership with La Trobe University, which dates back to the mid-1980s," Vice President of ECNU Wang Rongming said. "We believe this new joint research hub will serve as an excellent scholarly platform to reap mutual benefits to both universities," he added. "There will be more active academic exchanges and collaboration via this conduit, and bring forth fruitful world-class outcomes." As part of the initiative, the research hub will participate in everything from joint research projects, to exchange programs for junior scholars from each university, workshops, seminars, researcher visits and annual public lectures by eminent scholars in Melbourne and Shanghai. Excited by the prospect of building closer academic ties, head of the China Studies Research Center at La Trobe, John Makeham, said the collaboration will help strengthen understanding in a wide range of research areas. "With the aim of promoting and advancing La Trobe's research strengths in China Studies across wide-ranging research areas, the China Studies Research Center fosters research links with partners and institutions in Greater China, including with the prestigious East China Normal University," he said. "The center supports research initiatives across the whole University, from archaeology to soil sciences, marketing to philosophy, and I very much look forward to exploring some exciting new collaborative research opportunities with East China Normal University as part of our joint research hub." Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 16:40:26|Editor: Shi Yinglun Video Player Close A visitor tours at Te Papa, the national museum of New Zealand, in Wellington, New Zealand, May 9, 2019. A new nature exhibition, Te Taiao, is ready to open at Te Papa on Thursday. With an investment of 12 million NZ dollars (around 8 million U.S. dollars), weaving together science and Maori culture in a uniquely New Zealand experience, the nature exhibition is the largest redevelopment at Te Papa since it opened 21 years ago. It replaces the old nature exhibitions which have been closed since April 2018. (Xinhua/Guo Lei) WELLINGTON, May 9 (Xinhua) -- A new nature exhibition, Te Taiao, is ready to open at Te Papa, the national museum of New Zealand, in Wellington Thursday. With an investment of 12 million NZ dollars (around 8 million U.S. dollars), weaving together science and Maori culture in a uniquely New Zealand experience, the nature exhibition is the largest redevelopment at Te Papa since it opened 21 years ago. It replaces the old nature exhibitions which have been closed since April 2018. More excitingly, according to Te Papa Chief Executive Geraint Martin, the exhibition will be free to the public permanently. The 1,400-square-meter zone features more than 1,200 collection items, from a fossil dinosaur tooth to a moa egg which has never been seen by the public. Interactive experiences include those that enable visitors to smell the scent of a kakapo (a species of bird only found in NZ) and create their own tsunami. Martin said the opening is an historic moment for the museum. He hoped it would spark action to protect the environment. "This exhibition sets a new benchmark in museum experiences for a new generation," Martin said. "There's heaps to do in the exhibition: to see, hear, touch, and even smell. Visitors get to really take charge and see themselves as part of nature," said Frith Williams from Te Papa, who has led a creative team that has been developing the exhibition for the last three years. At the heart of the exhibition is a 70-square-meter, 4-meter-high "nest" woven together from recycled materials. It symbolizes the fragility of the natural world, its beauty and power, and hope for the future. Visitors are surrounded by bird sounds and images, and in the center of the nest, a whole but fractured moa egg, one of the last exists in the world, is placed. The key scientific research hubs Earthquake Commission and GNS of New Zealand both contributed to the exhibition, including the quake house which gives visitors a realistic, interactive experience of what it can be like when an earthquake strikes, and an active land showing an animation of the super-volcano. New Zealand's Social Development Minister Carmel Sepuloni said, "These new exhibitions will reach huge numbers over their lifespan, educating a new generation about the environmental issues facing our times and prompting them to take action to protect our world." Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 16:40:27|Editor: ZX Video Player Close BEIJING, May 9 (Xinhua) -- The U.S. House of Representatives on Tuesday passed the "Taiwan Assurance Act of 2019" that reaffirms "the United States commitment to Taiwan and to the implementation of the Taiwan Relations Act," which raised concern in the international community. It is widely considered that the U.S. move interferes in China's internal affairs and would damage China-U.S. relations and regional peace. "The UN (United Nations) continues to support a one-China policy in accordance with the relevant resolutions, including the 1971 resolution of the General Assembly," Farhan Haq, deputy spokesman for UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, told Xinhua. Former Deputy Director of the editorial office for Asia at the Voice of Russia radio station Alexander Zelenkov warned that the U.S. actions can cause "irreparable damage" to China-U.S. relations and very seriously complicate the situation in Southeast Asia. Zelenkov also said that the problem of Taiwan directly affects the sovereignty of China and concessions in this area for China are impossible. Elvis Ngolle Ngolle, professor of international relations at the University of Yaounde 1 in Cameroon and a former minister, noted that the proposed legislation questions the United States' credibility on the international scene as it had agreed with China on the one-China principle. "By this act, the United States is breaking its promise and sincerity," he said. The recent move by the United States is "a continuation of the wrong U.S. policies under (U.S. President Donald) Trump in dealing with its ties with China," said Samy Al-Qamhawi, a specialist in Chinese affairs at the Egyptian newspaper Ahram. "The Taiwan Assurance Act of 2019 violates and harms the one-China principle and destroys the unity that China has adopted," he added. "The United States only exploits Taiwan to put more pressure on China." Eduardo Regalado, a researcher at Cuba's Center for International Policy, said that the United States is trying to make a stronger containment exercise towards China with the delicate Taiwan issue, deeply hurting the feelings of the Chinese people. "The United States is approaching a very dangerous edge," said Regalado. "They are getting into a very sensitive issue because China will never negotiate a millimeter with respect to Taiwan and much less under pressure." Students shout slogan during a gathering in support of U.S. Wall Street demonstrators outside the Swiss embassy which handles U.S. interests in Tehran, Iran, on Oct. 22, 2011. (Xinhua File photo) BEIRUT, May 9 (Xinhua) -- While Lebanese analysts rule out the possibility of Iran waging a war against the United States as a result of the American sanctions, they expressed different views on how Tehran and its proxy Hezbollah will be impacted after the end of waivers and how they will react to them. "Iran does not have the interest nor the capabilities to wage a war today," Sami Nader, director of Levant Institute for Strategic Affairs in Lebanon, told Xinhua, adding that Iran may wage violent acts against American interests across the globe. Likewise, Rafik Nasrallah, a political analyst, said Iran may attack Americans in Afghanistan or in Iraq in reaction to the U.S. sanctions. Youssef Diab, another political analyst, told Xinhua that Iran cannot start a war now because this will exacerbate its deteriorating economic crisis which could possibly lead to an internal revolution that may remove the whole regime in the country. "Iran will probably end up holding negotiations with the U.S. based on conditions different than those agreed upon when Tehran signed a nuclear agreement with the U.S. and other countries," Diab said. Iran's President Hassan Rouhani declared on Wednesday that the country would stop complying with two of its commitments under the Iranian nuclear deal exactly a year after U.S. President Donald Trump withdrew entirely from the 2015 agreement. Rouhani's announcement also came after the Trump administration exerted further pressure against Tehran by refusing to extend the 180-day waivers for Iranian oil export which was first put in place last November. Washington said it would place sanctions on any country that continues to buy Iranian oil after May 2. While some analysts believe that countries must commit to U.S. decision of not importing oil from Iran, others believe that the U.S. cannot force such a decision on countries like Turkey, for instance. "Turkey will not probably commit to this decision and they may keep buying oil from Iran," Nasrallah said. Nasrallah noted that it will be obvious within the coming few weeks if the U.S. will truly take measures against any Iranian oil importing companies in Turkey. Former Lebanese Ambassador to Iran Adnan Mansour reiterated Nasrallah's comments, saying that the U.S. cannot pressure Turkey to stop buying Iranian oil because these two countries have a trade volume valued at 15 billion U.S. dollars while it is expected to double in the coming period. Mansour added that Tehran will find a way to export its oil. However, even if Iran works on smuggling its oil out, it will only generate 1 percent of the revenues that it gained when it exported its oil legally, said Diab. Companies that imported oil from Iran will stop because they are afraid of being targeted by the U.S. sanctions, Diab said, adding that "France's Total, for instance, has officially left Iran." "Even Russia will not sacrifice its interests by importing oil from Iran, especially with the increased rivalry between the two countries over imposing their influence in Syria," he noted. Rouhani announced that Tehran will increase its non-oil exports while continuing to sell oil in a bid to face the U.S. sanctions. Iran also threatened to consider closing the Strait of Hormuz, the only sea route in and out of the Gulf, carrying a fifth of the world's traded oil. Some of the analysts interviewed by Xinhua ruled out the possibility of Iran closing the Strait of Hormuz. "Iran would be further damaging its economy if it closes this strategic waterway," Nasrallah said, adding that around 6,130 Iranian trade companies have businesses with companies in the United Arab Emirates. However, Nader said that Iran may attempt to close Hormuz at least for some hours and days to create disturbances in the market. Hezbollah, Iran's proxy in the region, will definitely be impacted by the U.S. sanctions against Iran, said Diab and Nader. "Anything that affects Iran will surely have an impact on Hezbollah. When you cut Iran's resources, you are also depriving Hezbollah from resources," Nader said. Diab reiterated Nader's comments by saying that Hezbollah Leader Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah has previously asked Hezbollah's supporters to donate funds to help the party face tighter sanctions from Western countries. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 16:45:35|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close MEXICO CITY, May 8 (Xinhua) -- The Mexican government on Wednesday announced that it will protect Mexican companies that may be affected by the application of Title III of the Helms-Burton Act. Title III of the Helms-Burton Act allows for lawsuits to be filed in U.S. courts against companies operating on property that the Cuban government seized after the year 1959. In a statement, Mexico's Foreign Ministry expressed its rejection of the full implementation of Title III, which began on May 2. "Just like other countries, Mexico analyzes the corresponding legal instances to the implementation of the measures for international rights violations that the Helms-Burton Act represents, as well as to protect Mexico's foreign interests," it said in a statement. Mexico has a law in force since 1996 that counteracts the extraterritorial effects of the U.S. policy, which qualified as legislation with actions to strengthen the economic, commercial and financial blockade by Washington on Cuba, said the statement. It stipulates that Mexican courts are obligated to reject the recognition and execution of judgments issued based on the Helms-Burton Act. The law also prohibits individuals and companies from providing information demanded by foreign courts under the Helms-Burton Act. "The Mexican government reiterates its rejection of the application of Title III of the Helms-Burton Act, and reaffirms its commitment to legally protect Mexican companies that may be affected," said the statement. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 17:00:51|Editor: ZX Video Player Close HONG KONG, May 9 (Xinhua) -- The Medical Council of Hong Kong passed a proposal on Wednesday to relax rules for overseas specialists working in Hong Kong in a bid to tackle shortage of manpower in local healthcare system. Under the proposal, overseas specialists can get a full license without having to complete an internship, as long as they've worked for three years in the public healthcare system, and passed a licensing examination. In Hong Kong, medical practitioners are required to apply for registration with the Medical Council in accordance with the provisions of the Medical Registration Ordinance. Before the proposal, non-locally trained doctors who want to apply for full registration have to work as intern in hospitals under Hospital Authority after passing the examination. Experienced overseas-trained doctors can also apply for limited registration with a duration as long as they are recruited by the Department of Health of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administration Region, Hospital Authority, faculty of medicine of local universities or other institutions. Hong Kong has been facing a lack of manpower in public hospitals in recent years. The HKSAR government and relevant institutions have worked together to ease the shortage of medical power. Secretary for the Food and Health Bureau of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, Sophia Chan, welcomed the council's decision, saying that it would attract more non-locally trained doctors to alleviate the shortage of local medical manpower. Chan said that this proposal is one of the methods to increase the manpower in the healthcare sector, more solutions are needed to fundamentally solve the problem of the shortage of doctors in Hong Kong. The HKSAR government will consider to provide training for non-locally trained doctors who newly graduated, so as to attract them to work in Hong Kong, Chan said. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 17:05:53|Editor: Xiang Bo Video Player Close Yang Jiechi (R), a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and director of the Office of the Foreign Affairs Commission of the CPC Central Committee, meets with British Cabinet Secretary Mark Sedwill, who is also the national security advisor to the British prime minister, in Beijing, capital of China, May 9, 2019. (Xinhua/Ding Haitao) BEIJING, May 9 (Xinhua) -- Yang Jiechi, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, met with British Cabinet Secretary Mark Sedwill here on Thursday. Yang, also director of the Office of the Foreign Affairs Commission of the CPC Central Committee, expressed his hope that the two countries will work together to implement the consensus reached by their leaders, respect each other's core interests, and facilitate cooperation in various fields to achieve steady development in the "golden era" of bilateral relations. Sedwill, who is also the national security advisor to the British prime minister, said Britain attaches great importance to developing relations with China, supports the Belt and Road Initiative, and stands ready to deepen cooperation with China to promote the "golden era" relationship. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 17:10:57|Editor: ZX Video Player Close SEOUL, May 9 (Xinhua) -- The Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) fired an unidentified projectile eastward from its northwestern region Thursday afternoon, according to South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS). The projectile was launched from an area in North Pyongan province, north of Pyongyang, at about 4:30 p.m. local time (0730 GMT), the JCS said in a brief statement. The JCS said it was precisely analyzing the projectile whose type was still unknown. It came just five days after the DPRK fired several short-range projectiles into the sea off its east coast Saturday. The South Korean military believed that the short-range projectiles were fired from 240-mm and 300-mm multiple rocket launchers and a new type of tactical guided weapons. Chung Eui-yong, top national security advisor for South Korean President Moon Jae-in, was closely monitoring the situations at the national crisis management center via video conference with the defense ministry and the JCS, the presidential Blue House said. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 17:51:29|Editor: ZX Video Player Close by Mao Pengfei, Nguon Sovan PHNOM PENH, May 9 (Xinhua) -- The China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has created a lot of opportunities for cultural cooperation in different forms between Cambodia and China, a Cambodian curator has said. Speaking in an interview with Xinhua ahead of the Conference on Dialogue of Asian Civilizations in Beijing later this month, Kong Vireak, director of the National Museum of Cambodia, said since the BRI was announced in 2013, he had been invited to China for several times for cultural events under the BRI framework. "Within five years, I've traveled a lot to China to join exhibitions, conferences, seminars, workshops on cultural exchanges," he said. "Because of the Belt and Road Initiative, we can make a lot of friends, Chinese friends, and we have a lot of exchanges." Vireak said the BRI has provided opportunities for Cambodian and Chinese museums to promote cultural ties and for archaeologists to forge friendship and to exchange ideas on cultural development between the two countries. The curator said Cambodia has selected 10 ancient objects to join an exhibition, which will be held back-to-back with the Conference on Dialogue of Asian Civilizations. "It is a big event," he said. "This is an opportunity for Cambodia to show our culture and civilization as well as to share our experience in cultural protection and conservation with other countries and experts," he said. The upcoming Asian Civilization dialogue conference will be held under the theme of exchanges and mutual learning among Asian civilizations and a community with a shared future for Asia and for humanity. Speaking about cultural cooperation in the future between Cambodia and China, the curator said he wanted to see more cooperation in research on the history of the Cambodia-China relationship and exchanges. MUSEUM PLAYS VITAL ROLE IN PROMOTING CULTURAL TIES Vireak said that most of foreign tourists visiting the National Museum of Cambodia are Chinese. "The National Museum of Cambodia now plays an important role in showing Cambodian heritage and culture," he said. "I can say that now, Chinese tourists run first. Several years ago, Westerners or American visitors ran first, but now we can see the change because Chinese tourists run No. 1 in Cambodia, and Chinese tourists visiting the National Museum of Cambodia have increased quickly," he added. The curator said to attract more Chinese visitors to the museum, he has planned to publish a museum brochure or guidebook in Chinese language. "In the future, as I've worked with the Chinese embassy here in Cambodia, we would like to make some publications in Chinese for Chinese tourists," he said. "Publication is like a catalogue, or a guidebook in Chinese." Currently, the museum does not have Chinese tourist guides, he said. "We don't have now the Chinese tourist guides that can provide service to Chinese tourists here, but in the future, we'll have," he said. According to Vireak, the National Museum of Cambodia signed a memorandum of understanding with the National Museum of China in January last year to strengthen exchanges and cooperation in the areas of exhibition and research. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 18:01:35|Editor: ZX Video Player Close MANILA, May 9 (Xinhua) -- Three rebels and a soldier have been killed in clashes between government security forces and New People's Army (NPA) rebels in the northern Philippines, the army said on Thursday. Maj. Noriel Tayaban, the spokesperson of the Philippine Army's 5th Infantry Division, said clashes broke out in Jones town in Isabela province on Tuesday and Wednesday. He said troops were conducting security operation in San Sebastian village around 5:30 a.m. local time Wednesday when they engaged with about 15 NPA insurgents. Three rebels were killed, he said, adding that troops recovered an M16 assault rifle, an anti-personnel mine, an anti-tank mine, assorted ammunition, seven blasting caps, detonating core, electrical tale, eight backpacks, six cell phones and supervise documents. On Tuesday, Tayaban said a soldier was also killed and a militia man was injured in an ambush staged by the NPA guerrillas also in San Sebastian village in Jones town. He said two men were sent to the village to inspect a military road project when they were attacked. The NPA rebels, the armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP), continue to wage small scale armed attacks against the military after the Duterte administration scrapped the talks with the armed group in 2017. The armed group marked the 50th anniversary of their rural rebellion on March 29. The CPP and their front organizations have been attempting to negotiate a peace pact with five Philippine presidents before the current leader, President Rodrigo Duterte, but negotiated settlement remains elusive and peace talks have repeatedly stalled. Duterte, whose single, six-year term ends in June 2022, said in March that he has no more plans to reopen the talks during his tenure. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 18:06:37|Editor: ZX Video Player Close BAGHDAD, May 9 (Xinhua) -- A total of eight people were killed on Thursday in two attacks by Islamic State (IS) militants in the Iraqi provinces of Nineveh and Salahudin, security officials said. In the early morning, IS militants broke into the house of the mayor of al-Gawar village in the southwest of Mosul city, some 400 km north of the capital Baghdad, killing him, his wife and four of his sons, and injuring two of his other family members, said Ahmed Ali from the media office of the Nineveh Operations Command. Iraqi security forces rushed to the scene and launched a search operation to track the assailants, Ali added. In the central province of Salahudin, IS militants stormed a mill and shot dead the guard in a village near the town of Shirqat, some 280 km north of Baghdad, Mohammed al-Bazi, from Salahudin's provincial police, told Xinhua. The IS extremists set fire to the mill before fleeing the scene, al-Bazi said. A soldier was killed when a roadside bomb planted by IS militants detonated as Iraqi security forces arrived at the scene, al-Bazi added. The security situation in Iraq has been improved since Iraqi security forces fully defeated the IS across the country late in 2017. The IS remnants, however, have since melted into urban areas or resorted to deserts and rugged areas, carrying out frequent guerilla attacks against security forces and civilians. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 18:06:39|Editor: Liangyu Video Player Close Cambodian Agriculture Minister Veng Sakhon (Front) addresses a ceremony marking the first shipment of Cambodia's bananas to China in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, on May 9, 2019. Cambodia on Thursday exported its first batch of bananas directly to China as part of increased cooperation between the two countries within the framework of Belt and Road Initiative. (Xinhua/Mao Pengfei) PHNOM PENH, May 9 (Xinhua) -- Cambodia on Thursday exported its first batch of bananas directly to China as part of increased cooperation between the two countries within the framework of Belt and Road Initiative. Cambodian Agriculture Minister Veng Sakhon and Li An, economic and commercial councilor of the Chinese embassy in Cambodia, attended a ceremony here marking the first shipment of the kingdom's bananas to China. "It is another milestone in agricultural cooperation between Cambodia and China, particularly under the Belt and Road Initiative," Sakhon said, expressing his profound gratitude to China for opening its market broader for Cambodian agricultural produce. "It will not only help boost bilateral trade volume, but also importantly contribute to improving the livelihood of rural Cambodians through job creations," he said. The minister said the Southeast Asian country is expected to export about 130,000 tons of yellow bananas to China in 2019. Li said it was a new achievement in agricultural cooperation and would contribute to boosting trade volume between the two countries. "This is another fruitful cooperation between Cambodia and China," he said. "I'm strongly confident that the export of bananas to China will boost the development of Cambodian agriculture and will bring great benefits to Cambodian farmers." Ngin Chhay, director-general of Cambodia's General Directorate of Agriculture, said the export came after the two countries signed in August last year a protocol of phytosanitary requirements that paved the way for the export of yellow bananas from the kingdom to China. He added that last month, the General Administration of Customs of China approved the first five Cambodian banana plantations, along with their five packing factories, to export the bananas to China. "Today, we export, for the first time, five containers of more than 100 tons of the bananas to Shanghai directly from the Sihanoukville Autonomous Port," he said. Cambodian Ministry of Commerce Under Secretary of State and Spokesman Seang Thay said it was a new positive step in agricultural cooperation between the two countries. "It's good news. First of all, I would like to thank the Chinese government for agreeing to sign the MoU with Cambodia, allowing Cambodian people to export bananas (to China). This is the fourth agricultural product that we signed with China, to export to China," he said. Phe Hok Chhuon, chairman of Longmate Agriculture, said the company has planted bananas on the land of more than 400 hectares in southwestern Kampot province and will expand its plantation to more than 1,000 hectares in the future. "The company is expected to export about 22,000 tons of the bananas to China in 2019 and up to 33,000 tons in 2020," he said, adding that currently, the company has created more than 800 jobs for the locals. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 18:26:57|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close MOGADISHU, May 9 (Xinhua) -- Some 400 police officers are to be recruited for the regional state South West State's police force to help secure main supply routes to enable free movement of humanitarian supplies, officials said on Thursday. The African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) which has conducted training for South West State officials who will vet recruits seeking to join the police force said the recruits will also provide security in neighboring population centers. Maxwell Chikunguru, AMISOM's coordinator of police reforms, restructuring, and development, said the vetting committee will support the process to recruit the right people into the police force. "Our mandate is to build the capacity of the Somali Police Force," Chikunguru said in a statement issued in Mogadishu. He noted that the training workshop is in support of efforts to recruit competent and adequate police personnel to take over policing responsibilities when AMISOM eventually exits Somalia in 2021. The UN Security Council in 2017 approved the gradual reduction of AMISOM troops and transfer of security responsibilities to Somali national security forces. The AU troops are participating in many operations, ranging from conducting combat operations against the al-Shabab to securing the main supply routes. They also conduct regular patrols and escort vehicles carrying humanitarian relief aid. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 18:26:58|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close CHINGOLA, Zambia, May 9 (Xinhua) -- A copper producer in Zambia has terminated contracts with three mining firms working on some of its operation sites, resulting in 370 people losing their jobs, a company official said on Wednesday. Konkola Copper Mines (KCM) has terminated contracts with companies that were working at its Nchanga mine in Chingola District, Copperbelt Province. Eugene Chungu, the firm's general manager for corporate affairs, confirmed that contracts with the affected firms have expired and will not be renewed. Chungu said the Nchanga mine would resume operations as soon as the Indian firm stocks enough acid to treat the materials from the underground. KCM, a subsidiary of India's Vedanta Resources, is one of the largest integrated copper producers in Africa. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 18:27:01|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close BRUSSELS, May 9 (Xinhua) -- The European powers said on Thursday that they strongly urge Iran to continue to implement its commitments under the nuclear deal and reject any ultimatums. A joint statement by the High Representative of the European Union and foreign ministers of France, Germany and Britain said they note with great concern the statement made by Iran concerning its commitments under the deal, formally known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA). The European powers said they remain fully committed to the preservation and full implementation of the JCPOA, "a key achievement of the global nuclear non-proliferation architecture, which is in the security interest of all." "We strongly urge Iran to continue to implement its commitments under the JCPoA in full as it has done until now and to refrain from any escalatory steps," the statement said. "We reject any ultimatums and we will assess Iran's compliance on the basis of Iran's performance regarding its nuclear-related commitments under the JCPoA and the NPT (Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons)," it added. On Wednesday, Iran announced that it would suspend some promises it made under the deal. The United States withdrew from the Iran nuclear deal a year ago despite criticism by the international community including the United Nations. It also took a set of hostile measures against Iran. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 18:32:06|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close CAPE TOWN, May 9 (Xinhua) -- The South African Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) on Thursday assured the nation of the overall integrity of the just-concluded national and provincial elections despite two potential instances of double voting. The IEC will not allow the potential misconduct of one or two individuals - be they voters or election officials - to taint the overall outcome of these elections, IEC spokesperson Kate Bapela said, as initial results put the ruling African National Congress (ANC) well ahead of other parties. Two separate instances have been brought to the attention of the IEC over the past few hours in which some voters allegedly were able to cast more than one vote at different voting stations, according to Bapela. The commission views these allegations in the most serious light and has launched investigations into these incidents, said Bapela. On Wednesday, South African voters headed to the polls to elect a new National Assembly and provincial legislatures in each province. The elections will also determine who will become the next president. The election process contained a number of checks and safeguards which together served to protect the integrity of the process, Bapela said. As part of the safeguards, party agents and observers monitored all aspects of the voting, counting and results capturing process, he said. All of these leave a detailed footprint of voter participation in the process and can be used both separately and in combination to identify instances of electoral fraud, Bapela said. Where evidence is found to support electoral fraud, the IEC will firstly quarantine the results of the affected voting districts and secondly will pursue criminal charges against the perpetrators, Bapela said. He said the electoral process also allows for objections to be raised by political parties throughout the process. This includes instances where they believe a voter was ineligible to vote or has voted more than once, Bapela said. The IEC appeals to any party or person who may have evidence of any electoral fraud or significant irregularity to report this immediately so that it can be thoroughly investigated, he said. "The integrity of the results is paramount to the credibility of all elections and all election results are only finally captured and displayed in the results system where the commission is satisfied in the integrity of the results," he said. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 18:32:07|Editor: Xiang Bo Video Player Close CHANGCHUN, May 9 (Xinhua) -- A seminar on China's human rights protection was held Thursday in Jilin University in northeast China's Jilin province. About 100 experts and scholars on human rights issues as well as representatives from government departments attended the seminar. They held in-depth discussions on themes such as theories on the Chinese path of human rights protection, China's development and achievement in the area, and building a community with a shared future for mankind. Participants hailed China's achievements in protecting human rights and its new path of human rights protection based on the country's national conditions. China has created successful experiences in safeguarding human rights under the socialist system, and helped promote the development of the human rights cause across the world, according to the participants. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 18:42:10|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close CARACAS, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Venezuela's National Constituent Assembly (ANC) President Diosdado Cabello has confirmed that the opposition-dominated National Assembly's deputy leader Edgar Zambrano was arrested Wednesday for his involvement in the failed coup on April 30, according to local media. Zambrano was arrested in his private car by intelligence agents with full legal formalities, and Zambrano's rights will be "fully respected," Cabello said in a televised speech on Wednesday night. After being arrested, Zambrano gave investigators important information related to the failed coup orchestrated by National Assembly leader Juan Guaido, said Cabello. The ANC revoked the legal immunity for seven members of the National Assembly on Tuesday who had participated in the failed coup, including Zambrano. Venezuela's Supreme Court had authorized legal actions against the seven who have been charged with conspiracy, rebellion, and treason, among others. Cabello disclosed that another three members of the National Assembly who had also been involved in the failed coup will also be stripped of their legal immunity and arrested. Earlier Wednesday, Guaido said that Zambrano had been seized by intelligence agents, accusing the government of kidnapping his aide and trying to disrupt the "normal operation" of the parliament. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 18:57:23|Editor: Xiang Bo Video Player Close Undated file photo shows a container ship of Maersk docking in Nansha Port, Guangzhou, south China's Guangdong Province. (Xinhua/Guangzhou Port Authority) by Xinhua writers Lv Guangyi, Wang Pan BEIJING, May 9 (Xinhua) -- Nothing better demonstrates the value of interconnection, communication, co-construction and sharing than ports, Luc Arnouts, vice president of the Belgian port of Antwerp, has told Xinhua. "As a Belgian saying goes -- putting your hands in the river, you will connect the whole world," he said on the sidelines of the World Ports Conference 2019 (WPC) that runs from Wednesday through Friday in China's southern city of Guangzhou. On the eve of the international gathering of port operators, the Dutch port of Rotterdam and the Chinese port of Guangzhou formally established a sister-port relationship on Tuesday, enabling the two world-class ports, also crucial hubs on the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road, to enhance cooperation on sustainability and digitalization. At the WPC, themed "Open Cooperation, Shared Future," constructors and operators of ports around the world also expressed their expectations and hope for increasing connectivity and prosperity. FROM TRAINEES TO TRAINERS Antwerp port, the second-largest port in Europe, has grown into the most prestigious training institution for the port business in the world. Over the last several decades, the training institution there has trained a large number of professionals for Chinese ports. On his visit to Antwerp in June 2015, Yuan Yue, deputy director of Guangzhou Port Authority, expressed his willingness to set up a similar training institution in Guangzhou through cooperation with the Antwerp Port Authority. Six months later, the Guangzhou-Antwerp Port Training & Consultancy Company (GAPEC) was formally registered. Within two years, GAPEC has trained over 100 staffers from 10 countries. "These trainees are showing great interest in management skills and information technology of Chinese ports, so we are moving the classes to the port site," said GAPEC President Huang Jian. The port of Tanjung Priok in Indonesia, the Russian port of St. Petersburg and Solomon Islands Port Authority, among others, are sending their staff to Guangzhou to take training courses. In June, GAPEC will roll out two customized training programs for Arab countries and African countries. In August, an advanced workshop on port logistics will be held on an international level. Arnouts said Antwerp port is planning to create consulting business in Guangzhou. "We want to have more cooperation with the Port of Guangzhou," he said. RAPID DEVELOPMENT As many WPC participants have noted, GAPEC's boom can be explained by the strong attraction to the rapid development of Chinese ports, which feature openness and cooperation. "In recent years, Chinese ports have grown very rapidly. For young ports like the Port of Acu of Brazil, Chinese ports have already become a benchmark in the areas of port infrastructure, logistics and management," said Tessa Major, vice president of Acu Port, with which Guangzhou Port also established a sister-port relationship on Wednesday. The attraction of Chinese ports nowadays, above all, comes from the growth of volume. In 1978, the cargo throughput of Chinese ports was only 280 million tons while in 2018, China's ports completed 14.35 billion tons of cargo throughput, with seven ports ranking among the top 10 cargo throughput ports in the world. In addition, Li Tianbi, safety director of the Chinese Ministry of Transportation, said the scale of Chinese ports has consistently ranked first in the world for many years. "In the fields of deepwater port construction, port industry, port machinery and manufacturing technology of handling equipment, we are all already up to the advanced world level," Li said. "The experience of port development in China can be used for reference by many countries. Over the past few years, Chinese ports have done a great job, leading the world in terms of productivity and cost control," said Tim Smith, chief executive of APM Terminals Asia. Calling Chinese ports the active participants of global ports cooperation, Santiago Mila, president of the International Association of Ports and Harbours, said he believes China's new round of opening-up will continuously invigorate the development of global ports. "The 21st Century Maritime Silk Road will not only further promote Chinese maritime trade, but also create more port hub cities," said Mila. MUTUAL LEARNING FOR GLOBAL BOOM Up to the end of 2018, China has participated in the construction of 42 ports in 32 countries, including the Greek port of Piraeus, the Sri Lankan port of Hambantota and the Pakistani port of Gwadar. Piraeus, the biggest port of Greece, and operated by China's COSCO Shipping, is now one of the fastest growing container ports in the world. At the 2019 WPC, "digitalization" and "sustainability" are among the words most frequently used by the participants. "Chinese ports continue to promote industry development and accelerate the construction of smart ports through scientific and technological innovation. Chinese experience and wisdom on port development contribute a lot to this global industry," said Chen Yingming, executive vice president of China Ports and Harbors Association. Meanwhile, the operators of Chinese ports hope to learn more about business management, port-rail and port-air intermodal transport from their large counterparts in Europe and North America to better realize global port cooperation, said GAPEC President Huang. (Xinhua reporters Tian Jianchuan in Guangzhou, Pan Geping in Brussels and Liu Fang in The Hague also contributed to the story.) (Video reporters: Wang Pan, Tian Jianchuan, Lv Guangyi, Huang Guobao, Yu Yue, Pan Geping, Liu Fang, Yu Shuaishuai, Zhao Yuchao, Han Chong, Zheng Jianghua, Angelos Tsatsis; Video editor: Liu Ruoshi) Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 18:57:26|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close JOHANNESBURG, May 9 (Xinhua) -- The preliminary results released by the Independent Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) on Thursday showed that the current ruling party, the African National Congress (ANC), is in the lead in the general elections as the counting continues. The IEC said that with 24.58 percent of votes counted, the ANC is leading with 54.81 percent of the votes. The opposition Democratic Alliance is next with 26.30 percent, and the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) are third with 8.17 percent. Freedom Front Plus ranks fourth with 3.25 percent while other small parties are below 1 percent. The IEC said in a statement that "despite isolated incidents where voting operations were adversely affected by inclement weather, community unrest, power outages and some logistical challenges," the voting progressed smoothly in most areas. The ANC thanked South Africans for braving the chilly weather to go and cast their votes. Acting ANC spokesperson Dakota Legote said they are happy with the manner in which the elections were held. "We congratulate the IEC for conducting the elections in a manner that upholds the integrity of the elections. Despite the challenges we are encouraged that any outstanding matters will be resolved by the party liaison committees and the IEC," Legote said. The IEC noted that the electoral process allows for objections to be raised by political parties throughout the process. These include instances where they believe a voter was ineligible to vote or has voted more than once. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 19:17:46|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close DAMASCUS, May 9 (Xinhua) -- The Syrian army advanced on Thursday in the battles against the rebels in the central province of Hama, a war monitor reported. The army captured the Tal Hawash and Karkat areas in the Shahshabo Mountain in the northern countryside of Hama following the retreat of the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) group, said the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. The army also entered the village of al-Madiq Castle in the al-Ghab Plains in northern Hama following the withdrawal of the HTS, umbrella group of the al-Qaida-linked Nusra Front, the London-based watchdog added. Meanwhile, Rami Abdul-Rahman, head of the Observatory, said the long-anticipated battle against the rebels in Hama countryside and Idlib, the last major rebel stronghold in Syria, has begun. More than 300,000 civilians fled their areas as a result of the battles between the army and the al-Qaida-linked militants in northern Hama countryside, he added. The displaced people are staying in agricultural areas in northern Hama and the nearby southern countryside of Idlib, the watchdog head noted. The escalation between the army and the rebels in Hama has lasted eight days. Areas in the countryside of Hama, Idlib and the western countryside of Aleppo are included in the de-escalation zones deal which was reached between Russia and Turkey in September 2018. The deal failed to materialize as the HTS expanded in Idlib and started attacks on Syrian military positions instead of withdrawing from the designated zone which combines Idlib with Hama and Aleppo countryside. It's unclear yet whether the ongoing military operation will focus only on Hama countryside or expand to include Idlib. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 19:27:49|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close DAMASCUS, May 9 (Xinhua) -- The U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) opened fire at protesters in eastern Syria on Thursday, killing seven of them, state news agency SANA reported. Hundreds of protesters gathered in the town of Shahil in the northeastern countryside of Deir al-Zour Province against the practices of the SDF in the town, SANA said. It's worth noting that the SDF controls areas in eastern Deir al-Zour after capturing them from the Islamic State (IS) militant group. The Syrian government recently reaffirmed that all Syrian areas will return under the government control, urging the Kurdish-led groups, including the SDF, to choose the interest of Syria first. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 19:32:56|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close MOGADISHU, May 9 (Xinhua) -- The African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) said Thursday it has completed a five-day induction training of 15 military officers who will be deployed in Mogadishu to help beef up security in the city. Simon Mulongo, deputy head of AMISOM, said the officers from Ethiopia, Uganda, Kenya, Egypt, and Zambia will serve in the various AMISOM units, some of which include civil military coordination, training, as well as operations and plans. "Your job is to assist the force headquarters to coordinate operations and ensure execution of the objectives of the concept of operations (CONOPS)," Mulongo told the officers according to a statement issued by the AU mission. "Your role is to ensure that your skills and energy contribute to making Force Headquarter successful," Mulongo said. The CONOPS, which is the framework for AMISOM's exit strategy, guides the AU mission's military activities and operations for the 2018-2021 period. The document also details AMISOM's plans and aspirations that will culminate in the scheduled 2021 one-man-one vote elections and consequently the gradual transfer of the security responsibilities from the AU mission to Somali security forces. Nakibus Lakara, AMISOM's deputy force commander in charge of operations and plans, said the training would enable the officers to support the delivery of the AMISOM mandate. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 19:32:58|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close TBILISI, May 9 (Xinhua) -- Georgia on Thursday commemorated the 74th anniversary of the end of World War II (WWII) in Europe. Representatives of the Georgian government, veterans and citizens gathered and laid flowers before the monument of the "Unknown Soldier" in Vake Park in central Tbilisi to commemorate those who had been killed in the war. Georgian Prime Minister Mamuka Bakhtadze, after laying a wreath before the monument in the park, said in his speech that May 9 is a special day in the history of mankind. "I want to congratulate everyone on this day, especially our veterans. Hundreds of thousands of Georgian heroes have fallen in the battlefield and I want to pay tribute to their memory," he said. Ceremonies were also held in several other Georgian cities to commemorate the end of WWII. Victory Day, or the day Nazi Germany surrendered in 1945, is observed in Georgia each year together with most European countries as a national holiday. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 19:48:06|Editor: ZX Video Player Close SAN FRANCISCO, May 8 (Xinhua) -- A California railroad museum head on Wednesday praised Chinese workers' role in the building of the first American Transcontinental Railroad, saying it made a significant impact. Ty Smith, director of the California State Railroad Museum in Sacramento, capital of California, made the remarks at an event to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the railroad's completion. The major rail project that put the United States on a path to economic prosperity initially looked almost impossible at a time when the country was entangled in the Civil War, Smith told hundreds of people gathered for the anniversary event. He mentioned the comment of William Sherman, the commanding general of the U.S. Army in the Civil War, who reacted with disbelief to the idea of building a railway across the American continent. Calling the plan a "crazy" idea, Sherman asserted there was no way it was going to be done. However, the Chinese immigrants "toiled, worked and gave their blood, sweat and tears ... making something that existed on paper really live in the world," said Smith. Smith said his museum has worked in partnership with the Chinese American community in both Sacramento and San Francisco to add new exhibits on the story of Chinese workers in the museum. "This history of building the Transcontinental Railroad is a Chinese story as well as a United States story ... it's a wonderful contribution. It's part of the United States history, it's part of the world history," Smith told Xinhua shortly after the event. The role of the Chinese rail workers has been neglected for a long time in U.S. history, he said, adding that his museum is holding a new exhibit on a larger story of Chinese immigration and the long-dated connection between China and the United States. Sacramento held a series of festive activities to celebrate the anniversary, including a huge procession in the area of Old Sacrament City, recreating a historic moment on May 8, 1869, when the railroad was completed. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 19:48:10|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close LONDON, May 9 (Xinhua) -- A scheme costing 260 million U.S. dollars to urgently remove unsafe and dangerous cladding from high-rise apartment blocks in England was announced Thursday by Prime Minister Theresa May. The work, needed after the Grenfell Tower tragedy in London, will be carried out on nearly 170 privately-owned tower blocks where owners have failed to remove the cladding, said the government agency, Homes England. Following the Grenfell Tower fire, the government identified 176 private high-rise residential buildings with unsafe cladding. Latest data, compiled by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, shows work so far has only completed on 10 towers. The fire, in June 2017, was one of the worst in London, and left the 24-storey block of in North Kensington, a charred ruin. The fire caused 72 deaths. The agency said the government has stepped in to speed up vital cladding replacement by fully funding the work, eliminating excuses used by some building owners. May said: "We've seen a number of private building owners doing the right thing and taking responsibility, but unfortunately too many are continuing to pass on the costs of removal and replacement to leaseholders." "Today I can confirm we will now be fully funding the replacement of cladding on high-rise private residential buildings so residents can feel confident they are secure in their homes." Homes England praised the work of Grenfell United and the UK Cladding Action Group who campaigned for action and outlined the challenges in getting private building owners to fund the replacement of cladding on their buildings. Private developers and freeholders have been too slow to act and leaseholders have been threatened with significant, often unaffordable, costs resulting in delays, said the agency. Latest figures show 166 private buildings are yet to start work on removing and replacing cladding. Building owners will now have 3 months to access the new fund before the government decides what further action can be taken against owners who fail to remediate their buildings. As a condition of funding, the government says it will require building owners to take steps to recover the costs of the work from those responsible for the presence of the unsafe cladding. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 19:48:14|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close ANKARA, May 9 (Xinhua) -- Turkish Foreign Ministry on Thursday slammed the U.S. remarks on the Istanbul mayoral elections, urging Washington to respect the revote decision by the Turkish top election body. "Everyone must respect the decision taken by the Supreme Election Council (YSK)," the ministry said in a statement. The similar incidents occurred in the United States as well as other countries, and all were resolved within the principles of democracy, the ministry statement added. The statement came a day after the U.S. Department of State pressed Turkey to abide by the international norms for elections. The Turkish election body on Monday cancelled the March 31 Istanbul election in which the ruling Justice and Development Party of President Recep Erdogan narrowly lost the mayorship. A do-over election will be held in Istanbul on June 23. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 19:53:17|Editor: ZX Video Player Close GUANGZHOU, May 9 (Xinhua) -- China has more than 150 million users of 4K set-top boxes, as the ultra-high definition video industry develops rapidly in the country, according to data released at an industry meeting Thursday. The sales of ultra-high definition TVs accounted for 67 percent of total TV sales in 2018, experts said at the 2019 World Conference on Ultra HD video (4K/8K) Industry held in Guangzhou, capital of southern China's Guangdong Province. Since 2018, China Media Group and Guangdong Television have both opened ultra HD 4K channels. In February, China released a plan for developing the ultra HD video industry. Ultra HD video is expected to be an important gauge of use for the 5G network after the technology is commercialized, experts said. The conference is jointly organized by the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, National Radio and Television Administration, China Media Group and Guangdong Provincial People's Government. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 19:53:18|Editor: Xiaoxia Video Player Close TASHKENT, May 9 (Xinhua) -- Uzbekistan celebrated Victory Day on Thursday to mark the end of World War II (WWII) 74 years ago with large musical and theatrical performances across the country. Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev visited Independence Square in the capital Tashkent, laid a wreath at the foot of the Monument of the Sorrowful Mother and paid tribute to the memory of compatriots who sacrificed their lives in the name of peace, the president's press service said. "Thousands of our compatriots, together with representatives of other nations, showed genuine heroism in that terrible war. For 74 years, their great feat has been a school of courage for all of us, a source of pride, and it will always be so," Mirziyoyev said in his speech. The performances displayed in both the capital Tashkent and regional centers featured war-time armored vehicles, with actors in Soviet military uniforms singing patriotic songs from the WWII era. More than 1.5 million Uzbek citizens participated in the war, and more than half a million died in battle. The country also received about one million people who were displaced because of the war. vichinterlang/iStock(WASHINGTON) -- U.S. authorities stopped more than 109,000 undocumented migrants along the U.S.-Mexico border last month in a wave of unauthorized crossings not seen in over a decade, officials said on Wednesday. The 109,000 figure for April represents people apprehended for trying to cross between ports, as well as some who present themselves legally at ports of entry in a bid to claim asylum. Officials have said if such levels continue, the U.S. will be on track to handle some 1 million undocumented migrants this budget year almost double of last years number. The April apprehension levels are again record setting, and they cause dire concerns for us, one Homeland Security official said. The number of people apprehended at the southern border in just over the past seven months now surpasses last years total, as well as every annual total since 2009, according to newly released U.S. Customs and Border protection data. The bulk of the migrant influx comes from more than 58,000 families and more than 8,800 unaccompanied kids arrested on suspicion of crossing illegally. As a result, Homeland Security officials said agents have been forced to expedite the release of about 32,000 families in recent months. The growing trend continues to challenge President Donald Trump as his administration pursues some of the most hard-line U.S. immigration policies in recent history. The White House has made multiple attempts to deter migrants from seeking refuge in the U.S. In November 2018, the administration announced a new policy to bar migrants from filing an asylum application if they crossed the border between ports of entry. The move was blocked by a San Francisco judge just 10 days after the policy was announced. The Trump administration now is updating how U.S. officials interview asylum seekers. According to internal documents and emails obtained The Washington Post, the new guidelines direct officers to take a more skeptical and confrontational approach to migrants. U.S. Customs and Immigration services confirmed to ABC that it is updating its asylum officer training. As part of this periodic update, we have reiterated to asylum officers long-standing policies that help determine an individuals credibility during the credible fear interview, USCIS Spokeswoman Jessica Collins said in a statement. Exceptionally high levels of migration are also expected for the month of May, an official said, with Border Patrol apprehending more than 33,000 people in the past 10 days. Last month, CBP constructed two tent cities near the border to hold migrants in Texas. The agency is expecting to open another in Arizona, an official said Tuesday. Copyright 2019, ABC Radio. All rights reserved. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 19:58:24|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close SEOUL, May 9 (Xinhua) -- South Korea's presidential Blue House on Thursday expressed worry about the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK)'s launch of projectiles earlier in the day, which were believed to be short-range missiles. Ko Min-jung, Blue House spokesperson, said in a statement that the projectile firings would be of no help for efforts to improve inter-Korean relations and defuse military tensions on the Korean Peninsula. South Korea was "very worried" about the firings, the Blue House spokesperson said. The DPRK fired off two unidentified projectiles, presumed to be short-range missiles, from an area in North Pyongan province, north of Pyongyang, at about 4:29 p.m. (0729 GMT) and 4:49 p.m. local time (0749 GMT) each. The projectiles flew about 420 km and 270 km, respectively, in the direction of the east, according to South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS). They traveled at an altitude of about 50 km. The JCS said the South Korean military intensified surveillance and defense readiness in preparation for the possibly additional projectile launches, noting that it maintained a full readiness in close cooperation with the United States. The intelligence authorities of South Korea and the United States were precisely analyzing the projectiles for further information. It came just five days after the DPRK fired several short-range projectiles into the sea off its east coast Saturday. The South Korean military believed that the short-range projectiles were fired from 240-mm and 300-mm multiple rocket launchers and a new type of tactical guided weapons. The short-range projectiles traveled between 70 km and 240 km at an altitude of some 60 km. Chung Eui-yong, top national security advisor for South Korean President Moon Jae-in, closely monitored situations at the national crisis management center through video conference with the defense ministry and the JCS, the presidential Blue House said. The DPRK's projectile firings came a day before the second anniversary of Moon's inauguration as the South Korean president on Friday. Moon was scheduled to appear in a talk show of local broadcaster KBS Thursday night to address the nation about various issues surrounding the Korean Peninsula. The denuclearization negotiations between Pyongyang and Washington have been stalled since the second summit between top DPRK leader Kim Jong Un and U.S. President Donald Trump ended with no agreement. During the phone dialogue with Moon on Tuesday, Trump expressed support for Seoul's humanitarian food aid for DPRK people, saying it would be very timely and positive, according to the Blue House. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 20:08:29|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close TOKYO, May 9 (Xinhua) -- Former Nissan Motor Co. Chairman Carlos Ghosn's request to move residences while released on bail was granted by a Japanese court, sources close to the matter said Thursday. The Tokyo District Court, investigative sources said, has permitted the ex-auto tycoon to move a house in Tokyo's upscale Minato Ward, marking the first departure from the apartment complex he was required to stay at in Tokyo's Shibuya district. Prior to the court's decision to allow him to relocate, Ghosn had been required to stay at the apartment complex in Shibuya during both his stints on bail, the first beginning March 5 following his initial arrest in mid-November. The 65-year-old's release from detention for a second time, on 500 million yen (4.55 million U.S. dollars) bail on April 26, also saw Ghosn restricted to the Shibuya-based apartment. Under his bail conditions, he was also prohibited from meeting his wife, Carole, without permission from the court, as prosecutors believe she may have tried to contact people involved in the case on Ghosn's behalf to ensure testimonies line up. The latest charges facing Ghosn are connected to an allegation of aggravated breach of trust, with prosecutors believing that a portion of Nissan funds paid to a distributor in Oman were ostensibly funneled back to Ghosn for personal use. Such use includes the alleged purchase a 1.6-billion-yen (14.57-million-U.S. dollar) luxury yacht for use by Ghosn's family and others. The prosecutors believe that in this instance, the misuse of funds cost Nissan around 5 million U.S. dollars in losses. Ghosn was first arrested on Nov. 19 on charges of under-reporting his remuneration for years in Nissan's securities reports presented to Japanese regulators and is also facing a separate charge of aggravated breach of trust, for allegedly transferring private investment losses to Nissan. He was previously released on bail after serving 108 days at a detention facility in Tokyo, but was rearrested on April 4. Ghosn, who holds Brazilian, French and Lebanese citizenship, also had a criminal complained filed against him by Nissan, over the most recent allegation of aggravated breach of trust. The once-feted kingpin served as Nissan's chief executive officer following the automaker's capital alliance made with Renault and as Nissan president from 2000 and its chief executive officer from 2001 to 2017. Nissan Motor Co. shareholders have since ousted Ghosn from its board, severing a near two-decade relationship with the auto executive who is widely credited for rescuing Nissan from near-bankruptcy in 1999. As well as being removed as Nissan chairman after his initial arrest, he was also dismissed as chairman of Mitsubishi Motors Corp. and replaced as chairman of Renault SA after he tendered his resignation while in detention in Tokyo. Renault SA and Mitsubishi Motors Corp., who comprise the Ghost-created alliance with Nissan, have said that Ghosn will step down as a director in June. In a video message released by his lawyers after he was rearrested on April 4, Ghosn maintained his innocence and claimed that he had been the victim of a conspiracy at Nissan involving other executives. Ghosn's case has highlighted Japan's tough judicial system that allows for suspects to be detained for inordinately long periods of time as prosecutors seek to force a confession. His lawyer Junichiro Hironaka has blasted the system as being akin to "hostage justice." Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 20:08:32|Editor: ZX Video Player Close BEIJING, May 9 (Xinhua) -- China on Thursday urged the European Union to stop interfering in Hong Kong and Macao affairs. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Geng Shuang expressed China's strong dissatisfaction and resolute opposition after the European Commission on Wednesday issued annual reports for 2018 on the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) and the Macao SAR. The EU reports use human rights and freedom as a cover to wilfully comment on Hong Kong and Macao affairs, and make accusations against the implementation of "one country, two systems" in disregard of facts, grossly interfering in China's internal affairs as well as Hong Kong and Macao SAR affairs, Geng told a press briefing. Since their return to the motherland, Hong Kong and Macao have remained prosperous and stable, and the principle of "one country, two systems" has been successfully implemented, Geng said, adding that residents in Hong Kong and Macao are enjoying unprecedented democratic rights and freedom of speech, press and assembly, which are undeniable facts. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 20:13:35|Editor: ZX Video Player Close BEIJING, May 9 (Xinhua) -- China has issued a plan to promote the protection and inheritance of the heritage of the Grand Canal, the world's longest man-made waterway. A cultural belt will be built along the canal's existing main river course and those used in recent history, according to the plan's outline, which was issued by the general offices of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and the State Council. The document proposed four projects -- protecting the canal's cultural heritage, improving its water resources, building a green ecological corridor and promoting culture and tourism. It also stated that a work mechanism will be established to coordinate the implementation of the document. The eight provinces and municipalities along the canal are the main actors for advancing the initiative. The Grand Canal is almost 3,200 km long in total, including the one stretching from Beijing to Hangzhou, capital of east China's Zhejiang Province. It has a history of more than 2,500 years. Over 1,000 km of the canal was recognized as a world heritage site in 2014. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 20:13:36|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close SAN FRANCISCO, May 8 (Xinhua) -- The California capital of Sacramento Wednesday held a series of festive activities to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the completion of the first American Transcontinental Railroad that shaped the United States and put it on a path to economic prosperity. The celebrations started with a huge procession in the area of Old Sacramento City re-creating a historic moment that took place on May 8, 1869, when the railroad was completed. The revelers wore colorful costumes, with some of them playing history characters in period attire such as the Big Four major investors of the 19th century rail project. They walked in the procession starting from the California State Railroad Museum, marched along the streets of Old Sacramento City, and ended at the railway station near Front and K Streets. Players from the Sacramento Vintage Base Ball Club also played lively music to the cheers of hundreds of spectators, including elementary school students, to mark the sesquicentennial of the railroad's completion. With key local and state dignitaries in attendance, an official public ceremony was held to unveil a new granite monument and bronze plaque at "Mile Marker Zero" at the western terminus of the Transcontinental Railroad located at Front and K Streets. Ty Smith, director of the California State Railroad Museum in Sacramento, said at an event Wednesday that the American Transcontinental Railroad built by the Chinese workers 150 years ago changed everything forever in the United States in the 19th century. The Chinese immigrants have been in Sacramento since the Gold Rush, and they "toiled, worked and gave their blood, sweat and tears..." Smith noted. "The Central Pacific Railroad and the ability to get over the Sierra Nevada mountains would not have happened without the Chinese workers' experience," he said, giving his salute to the Chinese migrant railroad workers and their descendants. He said his museum has cooperated with the Chinese American community in both Sacramento and San Francisco to add new exhibits on the story of Chinese workers in the museum to keep the history in the memory of the American people. "This history of building the Transcontinental Railroad is a Chinese story as well as a United States' story ... it's a wonderful contribution. It's part of the United States' history, it's part of the world history," Smith told Xinhua shortly after the celebrations ceremony. Cheryl Marcell, president and CEO of the California State Railroad Museum Foundation, said the transcontinental railroad was a "great miracle" more than a century ago. "150 years ago, dignitaries and local citizens gathered here to recognize a truly remarkable feat. The completion of the Transcontinental Railroad is the single largest, greatest technological accomplishment of the 19th century," she said. The Transcontinental Railroad helped to connect the country, shape the nation and put the United States on a path to economic success, said Lisa Mangat, director of California State Parks. The Gold Rush represented the largest human migration in the history of the world, and Sacramento has evolved into a thriving destination where entrepreneurs, farmers, culinary masters, academics and other pioneers can make their ideas come to life, said Mike Testa, president and CEO of Visit Sacramento, a culture and leisure arm of Sacramento that promotes tourism and travel in the city. The Sacramento Railroad Museum opened free to the public during Wednesday's celebrations, which was warmly welcomed by a group of elementary school students who were given an opportunity to learn about the history of California railroad and the touching stories of unyielding Chinese workers. Smith said the role of the Chinese rail workers had been neglected for a long time in American history, but his museum has just finished installation of a new exhibit that talked about not only the Chinese work, but also told a larger story of Chinese immigration and the long connection between China and the United States. Also on Wednesday, community members of Sacramento had the pleasure of enjoying complimentary excursion train rides aboard the Sacramento Southern Railroad, which allowed the riders to experience the unique travel on board a steam locomotive that mimicked the life in the 19th century. Last month, Stanford University held a photo exhibition to honor the Chinese immigrant workers. The program revealed for the first time many findings of the Chinese railroad workers whose contributions to one of the most ambitious American engineering projects had long been left in oblivion in U.S. history. Gordon Chang, co-director of the project and professor of history of the Center for East Asian Studies at Stanford, said the Transcontinental Railroad would not have been possible without the Chinese migrants. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 20:18:41|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close Russian T-72B3 battle tanks roll down on the Red Square for the Victory Day parade in Moscow, Russia, May 9, 2019. Russia marks the 74th anniversary of the victory over Nazi Germany in World War II here on May 9. (Xinhua/Bai Xueqi) MOSCOW, May 9 (Xinhua) -- Russia held a military parade Thursday in Moscow's Red Square to celebrate the 74th anniversary of the victory over Nazi Germany in World War II (WWII). More than 13,000 Russian servicemen participated in the parade and over 130 units of modern weapons and military equipment were displayed with the presence of Russian President Vladimir Putin, senior officials, war veterans and guests. Putin congratulated all in his speech on the Victory Day which commemorates "the victory over fascism and retribution to the Nazis for all their atrocities," and expressed gratitude to the soldiers who defended their fatherland. "We will never forget their courage and self-sacrifice and the exorbitant price by which the Victory is paid," Putin said before declaring a one-minute silence tribute to the martyrs. The president stressed that Russia resolutely defends the true heroes of the Great Patriotic War, which remains a "sacred duty" to the country, and allows no distortions about the event or betrayals to their ancestors. In the meantime, Russia will continue enhancing its defense capabilities and working with other countries to fight terrorism, neo-Nazism and extremism, he said. "The lessons of the past war are still relevant. We have done and will do everything necessary to ensure the high combat capability of our Armed Forces and the defense potential of the most modern level ... We call on all countries to realize our shared responsibility for creating an effective and equal-for-all security system," Putin said. The parade started at 10 a.m. local time (0700 GMT). After a general tribute to the Russian flag and the Victory Banner in the national anthem played by the military band, Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu, riding in an open-roof car, reviewed the troops in orderly alignment and reported on their readiness to Putin, the supreme Commander-in-Chief of the Russian Armed Forces. After Putin's speech, servicemen from the Armed Forces, National Guard, military academies, the Emergencies Ministry and the Federal Security Service in 35 formations marched across the Red Square as the military band played. More than 130 items of armaments were showcased, including a T-34 tank, Tigr-M armored vehicles, Kamaz Typhoon mine-resistant vehicles, T-72B3 and T-14 Armata tanks, Iskander-M ballistic missiles, BM-30 rocket launchers and Yars RS-24 intercontinental ballistic missile systems, among others. The airshow traditionally in the final session of the parade was canceled due to unfavorable weather conditions. Originally, 74 aircraft were scheduled to participate in the parade. The Victory Day is one of the most ceremonious festivals in Russia, for which the country holds large-scale military parades in different cities involving tens of thousands of troops as well as most advanced weapons and military equipment. This year, a total of 29 Russian cities, including Moscow, St. Petersburg and Kaliningrad, held military parades to commemorate the victory, with the participation of over 57,000 Russian servicemen and 1,500 military armaments, according to the Russian Defense Ministry. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 20:18:44|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close BEIRUT, May 9 (Xinhua) -- Lebanese President Michel Aoun submitted on Thursday a new framework to U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon Elizabeth Richard on drawing the maritime borders with Israel, Lebanon's Presidency website reported. On the same day, Richard met with Lebanese Speaker Nabih Berri, who promised that Lebanon will be always committed to a unified decision with regard to the maritime borders with Israel, National News Agency (NNA) reported. Berri previously announced that Lebanon is ready to draw its maritime borders under the supervision of the United Nations. "We are ready to draw Lebanon's maritime borders and the Exclusive Economic Zone using the same procedure that was used to draw the Blue Line under the supervision of the United Nations," Berri was quoted as saying during the meeting with the UN Interim Forces in Lebanon (UNIFIL) chief Stefano Del Col. Lebanon has an unresolved maritime border with Israel that involves a triangular sea area of about 860 square km extending along the edge of three of its 10 offshore energy blocks. The United States mediated between Lebanon and Israel to end the dispute but failed to reach any positive results. In February 2018, Lebanon signed its first exploration and production agreements for offshore Blocks 4 and 9 with a consortium of France's Total, Italy's Eni and Russia's Novatek. Block 9 contains an area of waters claimed by both Israel and Lebanon, but the consortium said it would not drill the block's first well near the disputed zone. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 20:33:51|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close BEIRUT, May 9 (Xinhua) -- Lebanon's state security on Thursday arrested 23 Syrian nationals in Bekaa for illegal entry. The pursued Syrians, including women and children, are living in the village of Swayri in west Bekaa, the online independent newspaper Elnashra reported. The arrested people were transferred to the judicial bodies for further investigations. The Lebanese government has barred the UN refugee agency from registering Syrian refugees without guarantors, work visas or visas for transit since 2015. Such measures led to a rise in the number of Syrian refugees attempting to enter Lebanon illegally. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 20:43:58|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close Aircrafts perform during an air show celebrating Israel's 71st Independence Day in Tel Aviv, Israel, on May 9, 2019. The Israeli Air Force aircraft flew all over the country on Thursday, showing the power and capabilities of the army on the occasion of the 71st Independence Day. (Xinhua/Guo Yu) JERUSALEM, May 9 (Xinhua) -- The Israeli Air Force aircraft flew all over the country on Thursday, showing the power and capabilities of the army on the occasion of the 71st Independence Day. Along the coastline of Tel Aviv, tens of thousands of Israelis watched the show which included the new F-35 combat aircraft, the most advanced fighter in Israel. During the show, four acrobatic aircraft, with experienced pilots trained for the performance, did complicated maneuvers just 10 meters above the audience. Earlier in the day, Israeli President Reuven Rivlin hosted the traditional annual Yom Haatzmaut ceremony to honor 120 outstanding soldiers of the Israeli army. The soldiers were selected on the recommendation of their commanders to receive the President's Award for Excellence for their service and outstanding contribution to the Israel Defense Forces and the country. Independence Day is a national day of Israel to mark the Israeli declaration of independence in 1948. The streets, buildings, facilities and cars were decorated with Israeli flags, and people walked on the streets in the blue and white colors of the Israeli flag. Israel declared independence on May 14, 1948, but it marks the Independence Day according to the Hebrew calendar. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 20:49:00|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close BRUSSELS, May 9 (Xinhua) -- Iran has been fully compliant with all its nuclear related commitments under the nuclear deal, the European Union's top diplomat Federica Mogherini said on Thursday, one day after Iran said that it would suspend some promises it made under the deal. Mogherini, High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, made the remarks upon arrival to the EU's informal leaders' meeting in Sibiu, Romania, according to a transcript posted on the EU External Action Service official website. "So far we have seen Iran fully compliant with all its nuclear related commitments under the nuclear deal," she said, "The IAEA will continue to monitor these nuclear related commitments' implementation and we will continue to see the compliance of Iran to its commitments to the JCPOA through the lenses of the assessments that the IAEA will continue to do. " JCPOA, short for the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, is the formal name of the Iran nuclear deal. It was reached in 2015 between Iran and the P5+1 (the five permanent members of the UN Security Council -- China, France, Russia, Britain and the United States -- plus Germany). "We remain fully committed to the full implementation of the JCPOA, of the nuclear deal. It's a matter of security for us and for the entire world. The European Union investment in nonproliferation continues to be a top priority for us," said Mogherini. The U.S., under President Donald Trump, withdrew from the deal and re-imposed sanctions on Iran, despite criticism by the international community including the United Nations. On Wednesday, Iran announced that it would suspend some promises it made under the deal. Earlier on Thursday, Mogherini and the foreign ministers of France, Germany and the United Kingdom issued a statement saying they strongly urge Iran to continue to implement its commitments under the nuclear deal and they reject any ultimatums. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 20:54:06|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close BERLIN, May 9 (Xinhua) -- Operations at Frankfurt airport had to be stopped for about 45 minutes due to a drone sighting, the German federal police announced via Twitter on Thursday morning. For safety reasons, "no take-offs or landings were possible", said a spokesperson of Fraport, the operator of Frankfurt airport, Germany's largest airport. There had been "several indications" of a drone in the south of the airport area, according to a spokesperson of the German federal police. After it was no longer sighted, the German federal police reopened operations at 8:15 a.m. local time in consultation with Frankfurt airport's air traffic control. In 2018, the German air traffic control (DFS) registered a total of 158 obstructions to regular air traffic caused by drones, which was around 80 percent more than in 2017. In Germany, drone flights are banned over the take-off and landing areas at airports, as are drone flights over crowds, public buildings like hospitals and federal highways and railways. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 20:54:08|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close CAIRO, May 9 (Xinhua) -- U.S. aircraft carrier Abraham Lincoln passed through Egypt's Suez Canal on Thursday, the Suez Canal Authority said. Mohab Mamish, chairman of the Suez Canal Authority, received the carrier along with the U.S. defense attache in Cairo who praised the security measures along the canal. "The deployment of the carrier strike group is meant to show the U.S. will retaliate with unrelenting force to any attack," U.S. National Security adviser John Bolton said Sunday. Bolton said Washington is sending an aircraft carrier strike group and a bomber task force to the Middle East in a "clear and unmistakable" message to Iran. On Wednesday, Iran announced withdrawal from some of its commitments pertaining to the 2015 nuclear deal and threatened to do further if its economic interests under the pact cannot be honored. In 2018, the United States unilaterally withdrew from a 2015 deal between major powers and Iran, under which Iran agreed to curb its nuclear activities in exchange for relief from international sanctions. In August last year, Washington re-imposed the first set of sanctions that target Iran's access to U.S. banknotes and key industries including cars and carpets. In November 2018, the United States re-imposed a second package of sanctions aimed at significantly reducing Iran's oil exports and cutting it off from international finance. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 21:09:18|Editor: Xiaoxia Video Player Close JINAN, May 9 (Xinhua) -- Brazilian defender Gil will not leave China's Shandong Luneng and join Brazil's Corinthians by the end of this year, spokesperson of the Chinese club said on Thursday. Luneng described a Brazilian media report totally baseless, which said that Gil not only wants to return to Corinthians but intends to do so before his contract expires in December. The 32-year-old center-back joined Luneng in January 2016. Before that, he played for Brazil's Cruzeiro and French Ligue 1 Valenciennes, and was transferred to Corinthians where he won the Brazilian Serie A title in 2015. He was also nominated to Team of the Year in Italian Serie A for two consecutive years. Luneng beat South Korea's Gyeongnam 2-1 in the Asian Champions League on Wednesday to advance into the knock-out stage. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 21:14:22|Editor: ZX Video Player Close An exhibitor shows a synchronous simulation robot during the 6th China Robotop and Intelligent Economic Talents Summit in Yuyao City, east China's Zhejiang Province, May 9, 2019. (Xinhua/Weng Xinyang) HANGZHOU, May 9 (Xinhua) -- A total of 28 projects, with investment totaling more than 12 billion yuan (1.76 billion U.S. dollars), were signed Thursday at an ongoing robot summit in eastern China's Zhejiang Province. The three-day event, the Sixth China Robotop and Intelligent Economic Talent Summit, was held in the city of Yuyao. The 28 projects, which will mainly focus on robots, intelligent manufacturing, technology and innovation, are expected to promote the high-quality development of the robot and artificial intelligence industries. Latest robots and core components from nearly 80 leading enterprises in robots and intelligent manufacturing sectors are on display at the summit. Forums, focusing on diverse topics including academic research and application, enterprises and market, and capital and talent will be held during the summit. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 21:24:33|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close NAIROBI, May 9 (Xinhua) -- Across residential areas in Kenya's capital Nairobi, liquid soap is a popular product, with hundreds of households using it. The soap has been in use in Kenya for years, making families save cash that they would otherwise use on commercial detergents. Living off the liquid soap are dozens of Kenyan women, who dedicatedly make it and hawk in estates or sell at open air markets. Susan Wangare is among those making and selling the soap, a business she has engaged in for over seven years. The soap, which is made from various chemicals, is popular because it is multipurpose and low cost. Families, both low income and middle income, use it for general cleaning that include washing clothes, toilet, utensils and cleaning hands. "I learnt how to make the soap from a women's group, where we were taught the skill to generate income for ourselves," she said on Thursday. She then turned the skill into a thriving business that has seen her grow her client base to over 50 households. "I sell the soap mainly on order especially at the weekends. The families ask me to supply them the soap in various quantities, from a liter to 20 liters," said Wangare, who lives in Ruai but supplies the soap to households in the town and in Kitengela, some 25 km away. Among the ingredients she uses to make the liquid soap are potassium hydroxide, water, sunflower oil and boric acid, mixed at various ratios. A liter of the soap goes at 50 shillings (0.50 U.S. dollars), giving Wangare some good profit. In a good week, she sells up to 250 liters earning a tidy sum. "If I had not taken up the business, perhaps I would be living in the slum currently or had returned in the rural areas because I started the business after staying jobless for years," said Wangare, whose husband is a public service vehicle driver in Nairobi. From their incomes, the two were able to buy a piece of land in Ruai, on the outskirts on Nairobi, and built an ironsheet-walled house where they currently live. "Liquid soap has given me a steady job and income. This is all I do for a living and my dream is to have my own soap brand and perhaps become a big manufacturer," said the mother of three, who sources the soap-making ingredients from Nairobi's Industrial Area and started the business with 30 dollars. Wangare said they were trained by a non-state organization to make the soap in the group of 35 women. Some 20 are currently actively involved in the trade. For Grace Mutuku, she sells the liquid soap at her shop in Komarock on the east of Nairobi. The soap is a popular value addition, with residents buying it alongside the vegetables and household items. "The good thing with liquid soap business is that it is easier to start and the product moves faster," said Mutuku, who besides the soap makes toilet cleaners and handwash. Ernest Manuyo, a business lecturer at Pioneer Institute, notes the industry is lucrative since soap is used by every household. "The affordable cost certainly makes the soap popular for many households and guarantees dozens of women and even the youth steady income," he said. He observed that women are better organized especially through groups and are resilient making them easy to gain income-generating skills like soap-making. The latest World Poverty Clock report shows 29 percent of the 50 million people in Kenya are very poor as they use less than 2 dollars a day. According to the recently released Economic Survey 2018, some 762,200 jobs were created in the informal sector in 2018, as compared to formal sector's 78,400. At least 18 million Kenyans are employed in the informal sector, according to the survey by the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 21:39:46|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close TRIPOLI, May 9 (Xinhua) -- The UN Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) on Thursday condemned an attack on an ambulance in south of the Libyan capital Tripoli, where clashes have been ongoing between the UN-backed government and the east-based army. "UNSMIL is appalled by the attack yesterday against an armoured ambulance in Qasr Bin Ghashir (southern Tripoli), seriously injuring the Director of Ambulance and Emergency Medical Services and 2 paramedics," the UNSMIL said. "Attacks against health workers constitute a serious violation of International Humanitarian Law," the mission warned. The east-based army, led by Khalifa Haftar, has been leading a military campaign since early April to take over Tripoli, where the UN-backed government is based. The fighting has so far killed 443 people and displaced nearly 60,000 others, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Libya has been struggling to undergo a transitional period amid chaos since the fall of former leader Muammar Gaddafi in 2011. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 21:44:49|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close BEIRUT, May 9 (Xinhua) -- The Britain-funded Beirut Police Command and Control Center (CCC) was inaugurated on Thursday by British Ambassador to Lebanon Chris Rampling, the British Embassy said. As part of the British Policing Support Project for Lebanon, the rehabilitation work of the police center began in May 2018 and finished in March 2019. According to an embassy statement, the center is equipped with state-of-the-art devices and a newly established analysis and planning room. "The new CCC will improve the operational performance of the Beirut Police, strengthen its capacity to fight crime and maintain security, and build its partnership with the community," the statement said. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 21:44:50|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close CAIRO, May 9 (Xinhua) -- An Egyptian court on Thursday acquitted former Interior Minister Habib al-Adly in a retiral of his corruption case, the official news agency MENA reported. Adly, who served under former President Hosni Mubarak, was sentenced in April 2017 to seven years in prison after being convicted of embezzlement of public funds. In January last year, Egypt's Cassation Court, the top appeals court, revoked the verdict and ordered a retrial. Adly was also cleared, during a retrial in 2014, along with Mubarak and six aides, of charges related to killing protesters during the 2011 uprising which led to Mubarak's downfall. Adly has already served a three-year sentence for taking advantage of his position and forcing police conscripts to work for him. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 21:49:55|Editor: ZX Video Player Close CHENGDU, May 9 (Xinhua) -- China's armed police forces carried out a three-day rescue and relief drill in Deyang, southwest China's Sichuan Province, which ended on Thursday. The drill, with a focus on earthquake emergency rescue, was aimed at testing and enhancing the forces' ability to conduct joint rescue and relief. Forces in multiple fields including transport, helicopters, chemical defense and healthcare were involved in the integrated drill. They completed 16 key tasks, such as repairing and constructing damaged bridges or tunnels, disposing of hazardous chemical substances and setting up temporary settlements. Over 50 types of rescue equipment were used in the drill, which has greatly improved work efficiency, said Xiao Weibin, a participating military officer. The drill also aimed to form a joint rescue and relief mechanism featuring smooth coordination and effective integration of professional rescue forces. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 22:10:13|Editor: ZX Video Player Close MANILA, May 9 (Xinhua) -- The number of Chinese tourists who visited the Philippines in the first quarter of 2019 has increased 24.87 percent, data released by the Department of Tourism (DOT) of the Philippines showed on Thursday. According to DOT data, a total of 463,804 Chinese tourists visited the Philippines from January to March this year, or 24.87 percent more than the 371,429 recorded in the first three months of 2018. China ranked second to South Korea, which remains the top source market with 519,584 arrivals to the Philippines from January to March this year, the DOT said. The number is up by 8.91 percent from the 477,087 recorded in the same period in 2018. The DOT said more than 2.2 million foreign tourists visited the Philippines in the first quarter of 2019, up 7.6 percent increase from the 2.05 million visitors recorded in the same period last year. The Philippine Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat said the first quarter figures showed that the Philippines is "on track" to hit the DOT's 8.2 million target for 2019. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 22:15:15|Editor: ZX Video Player Close HONG KONG, May 9 (Xinhua) -- The High Court of Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) on Thursday sentenced two participants of the 2016 Mong Kok riot to three-year imprisonment each. One of the defendants, Yung Wai-yip, had been convicted of two counts of rioting and one of assaulting police. The other one, Yuen Chi-kui, had pleaded guilty to two counts of rioting and one of arson. The judge, Albert Wong, said the two stayed at the riot scene for over eight hours and were well aware of the situation. He added that they did not act on impulse, and a deterrent sentence was needed. Yung and Yuen were among the hundreds of rioters who violently clashed with the police in streets of Hong Kong's Mong Kok district during the Lunar New Year holiday in 2016. Over 100 people, most of them policemen, were injured in the riot. Over 90 participants were detained after the riot and over 20 of them have been found guilty of rioting. Two of the convicted were sentenced last year to jail for six years and seven years each, so far the longest jail terms of the Mong Kok riot cases. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 22:15:17|Editor: ZX Video Player Close TOKYO, May 9 (Xinhua) -- Toyota Motor Corp. plans to make an investment of more than 2.2 billion U.S. dollars in China to boost output of eco-friendly vehicles, local media reported Thursday. The Japanese automaker will cooperate with its Chinese partner Guangzhou Automobile Group Co. (GAC Group) to meet the growing demand for eco-cars. According to GAC Group, Toyota plans to add 400,000 units to its eco-car production capacity per annum at GAC Toyota Motor Co. in Guangzhou, southern China, which is equally owned by Toyota and GAC. GAC Toyota Motor plans to invest 1.6 billion dollars to expand production capacity in two phases for scheduled completion in 2022, Guangzhou Automobile said. According to Toyota, the output of Toyota brand cars reached 599,000 units last year at the Guangzhou manufacturing unit. Toyota and its Chinese partner also plan to strengthen engine production at their GAC Toyota Engine Co. in Guangdong Province. An investment of 605 million dollars will be used to add 432,000 engines to annual output capacity which is expected to be completed in 2021 under a program set up by Toyota to enhance production quality and reduce costs with the introduction of new vehicle platform, the GAC Group said. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 22:15:18|Editor: ZX Video Player Close BEIJING, May 9 (Xinhua) -- A senior Communist Party of China (CPC) official has called on the Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps to give full play to their functions of maintaining stability in and garrisoning the country's border areas. You Quan, a member of the Secretariat of the CPC Central Committee and head of the United Front Work Department of the CPC Central Committee, made the remarks during a four-day inspection and research tour to northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, which ended Thursday. Speaking highly of the achievements the corps have made in recent years, You asked them to further understand and grasp the responsibilities and missions of the corps in the new era and improve their emergency system in maintaining stability. He called for consistent efforts to deepen the reform of the corps and more efforts to improve the vitality of development and administrative efficacy to push forward the reform with breakthroughs in key areas. You also asked for more support to the corps in their work, and mobilize cadres and common people to develop, construct and stabilize southern Xinjiang. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 22:30:26|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close HARARE, May 9 (Xinhua) -- Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa assured Zimbabweans Thursday that his government is working hard to resolve economic challenges facing the nation. Addressing mourners at the National Heroes Acre for the burial of ruling ZANU-PF member Velaphi Misheck Ncube, the president acknowledged the hardships facing the people. "I am aware of the economic challenges facing the nation such as fuel and foreign currency shortages but I assure the nation that my administration will resolve these issues without fail," Mnangagwa said. He also appealed to businesses that have been wantonly hiking prices to exercise discipline and contribute to national building. "Our business people at every level must be ethical in their conduct. The rebuilding of our economy is everyone's responsibility," he said. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 22:45:44|Editor: yan Video Player Close JUBA, May 9 (Xinhua) -- South Sudan and the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) on Thursday inked a 150-million-U.S.-dollar deal to support the east African nation's modernization of agriculture. Pierre Vauthier, FAO country representative, said the comprehensive country framework (CCF) that involves working with the ministries of agriculture, livestock and fisheries, environment and water and irrigation aims to provide inputs, credit and loans to farmers besides increasing production in order to export food and livestock products. "What we want to do is to contribute to help the entire country including all men, women, youth of South Sudan to develop agriculture. The first priority is to increase production by developing the capacity of fish farmers in the country to have access to better inputs, credit and loans and capacity to link up with the market," said Vauthier in Juba. He disclosed that they will work with government to improve access to water for livestock in order to reduce intermittent conflicts among pastoralist communities that continue to persist. Vauthier said that the framework will help increase income generation of all the population through modernization of the livestock sector. "We need South Sudan to be able to sell fatter livestock, in order to earn more money out of the livestock that we are breeding here. What we are going to do is to mobilize money in order to have very competitive fisheries sector in particular Bor, Terekeka, Juba and Malakal areas," he added. Makuei Malual, undersecretary of South Sudan's Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries, said that some of the projects within the framework are already ongoing, like the cross border project around Torit, Maban and Aweil North. "It (CCF) is supposed to be looking at production, marketing of livestock and disease control. If this is realized it will develop livestock sector and also (build) resilience of communities which are depending on livestock for their survival," said Malual. Mathew Udo, undersecretary of South Sudan's Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, said the framework agreement involves supporting programs within the 25-year Comprehensive Agricultural Master Plan (CAMP), an ambitious blueprint set up by South Sudan government to develop and modernize agriculture and livestock sectors. The country has vast arable land and 38 million livestock. Currently oil and mining dominate the economy in terms of revenues, accounting for 98 percent of the fiscal budget since the country's independence from Sudan in 2011. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 23:06:04|Editor: yan Video Player Close GAZA, May 9 (Xinhua) -- A senior Egyptian intelligence delegation arrived in the Gaza Strip on Thursday for two-day talks with Hamas-led factions to strengthen their calm with Israel, security sources said. The Egyptian delegation entered Gaza from the West Bank through the Israel-controlled Erez border crossing, the sources said. The visit of the Egyptian delegation comes a day before the weekly anti-Israel protests on Friday, better known as the Great March of Return aimed to break the Israeli siege on the coastal enclave. The Highest Commission of the Great March of Return said earlier in a statement that the peaceful protests will continue this Friday. Last Friday, four Palestinians were killed in the weekly protests, thus triggering a new wave of military escalation between the Israeli army and Gaza militants. A total of 27 Palestinians and four Israelis were killed during the weekend conflict before Egypt, the United Nations and Qatar intervened to broker a calm deal between the two sides. On Wednesday, the delegations representing Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad returned to Gaza following a week-long visit to Egypt. Yahya Sinwar, Hamas chief in Gaza, held talks with the Egyptian high-ranking security officials over the long-standing Israeli assault and siege on the Gaza Strip. The Palestinian factions want Israel to completely end all its measures, mainly the almost 12-year blockade on the Gaza Strip, and improve the difficult livelihood of the 2 million Palestinians in the enclave. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 23:21:19|Editor: yan Video Player Close JAKARTA, May 9 (Xinhua) -- Anti-terror squad of Indonesian police has arrested an alleged militant who is the leader of a IS-linked terrorist cell and has also financed terrorist acts, police said Thursday. The militant also has expertise in assembling high-explosive bombs, the police added. Rafli alias EY led a terrorist cell in Bekasi, in the outskirts of Jakarta and was also a recruiter of new militants, a police spokesman said. Rafli, 26, was captured by the squad near a gas station east of Jakarta on Wednesday. "The bombs assembled by JAD Bekasi have high-explosive power. The explosive material used in the bombs is mother of satan," the spokesman told a press conference. Mother of satan, or triaceton triperoxide (TATP), was used as an explosive in some terrorist attacks since 2001. Since May 4, the anti-terror squad has arrested six alleged militants in Bekasi city, foiling a suicide bombing plot, according to the police. Members of the JAD had carried out several terrorist strikes in Indonesia, including the multiple suicide attacks in East Java and Riau provinces in May, 2018, and suicide strikes in a police station and Starbucks Cafe in the heart of Jakarta that killed eight people in January 2016, according to the police. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 23:21:21|Editor: Lu Hui Video Player Close WASHINGTON, May 9 (Xinhua) -- A wide range of U.S. industry associations have expressed strong opposition to Washington's threat to raise tariffs on Chinese imports later this week. "For 10 months, Americans have been paying the full cost of the trade war, not China," said the Tariffs Hurt the Heartland campaign, after the U.S. government announced that tariffs on 200 billion U.S. dollars of Chinese imports will go up from 10 percent to 25 percent on Friday. "To be clear, tariffs are taxes that Americans pay, and this sudden increase with little notice will only punish U.S. farmers, businesses and consumers," the anti-tariff campaign added in a statement. "Doubling down on taxing Americans as a negotiating tactic only makes a bad situation worse," it said. "This isn't leverage to get a better deal; it's taking money out of the pockets of hard-working Americans." In addition, "raising tariffs to 25 percent could cost nearly one million American jobs," it said, citing a report conducted by Trade Partnership Worldwide, LLC, an international trade and economic consulting firm. "This decision will also roil financial markets and increase the likelihood of retaliation on American farmers who are facing the lowest income levels in years," added the campaign, which comprises over 150 of America's largest trade organizations from across different industries. Naomi Wilson, the Information Technology Industry Council's senior director of policy for Asia, also pointed out that "increasing tariffs would only continue to harm American consumers and businesses of all sizes and across all sectors, as well as threaten American economic growth and leadership in innovation." Gary Shapiro, president and CEO of the Consumer Technology Association, said "implementing these 25 percent tariffs on just five-days notice would roil our markets, damage U.S. businesses and do serious harm to Americans' retirement funds and pensions." In the eyes of Auto Care Association President and CEO Bill Hanvey, the move would have "an immediate negative impact" on not only the U.S. businesses that manufacture and distribute auto parts, but also the motoring public who will see higher prices on a wide range of products, including important safety-related components. Many urged the U.S. government to rethink. "We urge the administration to reconsider this tax hike on Americans and stay at the bargaining table until a deal is reached," the National Retail Federation's senior vice president for government relations, David French, said in a statement. American Apparel & Footwear Association President and CEO Rick Helfenbein also urged Washington to "refrain from imposing these additional tariffs and instead focus on negotiating and concluding the trade deal with China." Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 23:26:25|Editor: yan Video Player Close TIANJIN, May 9 (Xinhua) -- U.S. cruise liner Royal Caribbean Cruises announced plans for expansion in China by 2020 as cruises are gaining popularity among the Chinese. The company will base three cruise ships in Tianjin, Shanghai and Hong Kong next year to provide long-term cruises, holiday cruises and 2020 Summer Olympic themed cruises with plenty of onboard activities. It will also offer some 130 onshore sightseeing routes covering 27 ports and destinations. The cruise giant will also increase the number of overnight routes leaving China's home ports by 150 percent and expand its long-term routes by 40 percent next year. While more Chinese tourists choose to spend their vacations on cruise ships, the company is also receiving more international guests visiting home ports in China, with the number expected to surpass 40,000 by the end of 2019, said a manager with the company. According to the Cruise Lines International Association, by 2025 the number of Chinese travelers having taken cruises is expected to grow to 8 to 10 million. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 23:36:31|Editor: yan Video Player Close JUBA, May 9 (Xinhua) -- A Norwegian charity on Thursday called on South Sudan leaders to ensure a power-sharing government is in place within the new extended timeframe. Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) warned that millions of war-weary citizens cannot afford any more delays in the peace process, especially after another important deadline passed with no prospects of a lasting peace. "This extension is an opportunity for all parties to continue negotiating and to crucially move forward with the peace agreement's most contentious clauses," Miklos Gosztonyi, policy adviser with the NRC, said in a statement issued in Juba. Signatories to the 2018 peace agreement on May 3 agreed to extend formation of the transitional government by six months following delays in the implementation of the pact. "It is imperative that they engage in dialogue, make compromises, and deliver on the promises of peace," Gosztonyi said. The six-month extension was granted to give the parties more time for the formation of a transitional government of national unity after they failed to resolve issues by the May 12 deadline, the date initially agreed when the peace agreement was signed in September 2018. "Now that power-sharing arrangements have been agreed towards the formation of the unity government, the parties should engage with the clauses of the agreement and agree to address the root causes of the conflict," Gosztonyi said. He said the people of South Sudan have been living on the edge for too long and cannot afford any more delays to the peace they were promised. According to Gosztonyi, while the signing of the fragile peace deal eight months ago has seen a reduction in fighting among the signatories, violence continues in some areas. He said there has been inter-communal fighting, cattle raiding, and clashes involving groups that did not sign the peace agreement, amid deterioration of the humanitarian situation, with millions of people facing a growing food crisis as a result of the conflict. "The food security situation continues to deteriorate mainly due to families fleeing conflict, low crop production, and humanitarian access challenges," Gosztonyi said. "Around 80 percent of people in South Sudan are living below the absolute poverty line." Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 23:41:37|Editor: yan Video Player Close DAR ES SALAAM, May 9 (Xinhua) -- The German government will build a state-of-the-art military hospital in Tanzania's capital, Dodoma, the presidency said on Thursday. A statement issued by the Directorate Presidential Communication at State House in the commercial capital Dar es Salaam said the construction of the hospital was announced by German Ambassador to Tanzania Detlef Waechter during talks with President John Magufuli. The German envoy said the construction of the military hospital was part of the 2021-2024 German aid program to the Tanzania People's Defense Forces, according to the statement. The statement said the meeting was also attended by a high-level delegation from the German ministries of defense and foreign affairs. The statement said the German delegation also promised to offer Tanzania medical facilities and train the east African nation's military medical personnel. In the current Tanzania-Germany army friendship program that started in June 2017 through March 2019, the German government built a state-of-the-art zonal hospital in Monduli, in the northern region of Arusha, the statement said. President Magufuli thanked the German government for its continued development assistance to Tanzania aimed at improving the welfare of its people. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-10 00:06:52|Editor: yan Video Player Close BEIJING, May 9 (Xinhua) -- China rejected Thursday recent irresponsible comments made by a U.S. official against the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), saying that the international community will tell who is stirring up trouble and who is trying to make a difference. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Geng Shuang made the remarks at a press briefing in response to a question on reports that during a visit to the United Kingdom, U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said the BRI proposed by China violates other countries' sovereignty and urged Britain to be vigilant and voice its opposition. "Some individuals in the United States have been continuously making irresponsible comments against the BRI, which reached a crescendo before the second Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation. "But what was the result? More than 6,000 delegates from 150 countries and 92 international organizations, including over 50 delegates from the United States, attended the forum," the spokesperson said. Geng said this is the international community taking actual actions to cast a vote of confidence and support in the BRI, and the best response to the words and actions of the United States. Certain individuals in the U.S. began to play the same old tune in the past few days, and continued to attack and smear the BRI, Geng said. "I would like to remind them once again not to overestimate your ability of rumor-mongering, or underestimate other people's ability of judgment. If they wish so, they can continue talking the talk, but we will continue walking the walk." Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-10 00:11:58|Editor: yan Video Player Close ADDIS ABABA, May 9 (Xinhua) -- The Ethiopian government has in recent weeks returned home a total of 875,000 Internally Displaced People (IDPs), spokeswoman Billene Seyoum said on Thursday. Speaking to local and foreign journalists, Seyoum said the 875,000 IDPs who returned home are originally from an estimated 2.3 million Ethiopians that had been displaced in recent years by conflict and climatic volatility. Seyoum also said the Ethiopian government is working to rehabilitate the remaining internally displaced people and bring to justice individuals suspected of having a hand in the displacement crisis. "Ethiopian government has identified 2,517 suspects involved in unrest that displaced thousands of Ethiopians and killed scores of others across various parts of the country including the western Benishangul Gumuz regional state, Burayu town near Addis Ababa and Dire Dawa city council in eastern Ethiopia," said Seyoum. Seyoum also said the Ethiopian government is currently undertaking activities to prevent the possible occurrence of conflicts across the country, successfully aborting a potential conflict in Gambella regional state, located in the southwestern part of the country. She also said the Ethiopian government is working to ensure the prevalence of the rule of law across the country and is reforming government institutions to enable them to deal with conflicts that occur in various parts of Ethiopia. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-10 00:12:02|Editor: yan Video Player Close DOHA, May 9 (Xinhua) -- Negotiators from Afghanistan's Taliban group and the United States wrapped up their sixth round of peace talks on Thursday with "some progress" made on a draft agreement for when foreign troops might withdraw, according to an official from Taliban. The talks, in which the United States has also sought assurances that the Taliban will not allow militant groups to use Afghanistan to stage attacks, had begun on April 30 in the Qatari capital Doha. Taliban political spokesman Suhail Shaheen tweeted that the talks between teams of negotiators from the United States and what he called the "Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan" were "positive and constructive." Militants from Taliban had attacked the compound of an American-run contractor in the Afghan capital Kabul on Wednesday, killing at least five people and wounding 24 others. The attack is sending a stinging message to Washington as it engages in peace talks with the group. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-10 00:17:05|Editor: yan Video Player Close NAIROBI, May 9 (Xinhua) -- Kenya will channel additional resources towards community-led interventions aimed at boosting prevention and treatment of HIV and AIDS that affects an estimated 5.6 percent of the country's population, officials said on Thursday. Sicily Kariuki, cabinet secretary for health, said the government has prioritized robust HIV and AIDS financing to minimize deaths that affects productive segment of the population. "The country has achieved remarkable feat in the fight against AIDS. But as a government, our focus is to earmark extra resources to make sure the momentum towards zero infections and deaths is sustained," said Kariuki. She spoke in Nairobi during this year's national HIV and AIDS conference, whose theme was "leveraging the HIV response to accelerate impact for universal health coverage." More than 500 delegates, including policymakers, researchers, donor representatives and campaigners, attended the annual forum to review progress attained in the fight against HIV and AIDS. Kenya is among the top five sub-Saharan African countries with the highest burden of AIDS but has witnessed a drop in new infections and deaths thanks to targeted interventions like mass testing, subsidized treatment and robust public education. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-10 00:22:11|Editor: yan Video Player Close RAMALLAH, May 9 (Xinhua) -- Palestinian Authority (PA) Prime Minister Mohammed Ishtaye on Thursday urged the World Bank to monitor Israel's cutback in its payment of the PA tax revenues. Ishtaye, who met with Kanthan Shankar, the World Bank's director in the Palestinian territories, called on the World Bank "to play a role of creating an effective billing mechanism between the Palestinians and Israel," his office said in a statement. Ishtaye accused Israel of destroying the Palestinian economy and exhausting it by cutting funds from the Palestinian tax revenue dues. "Israel is trying to drag the banking institutions operating in Palestine into a legal war that could lead to its loss and closure," the statement said. At the end of April, Israel Radio reported that Israel transferred 660 million Israeli shekels (183 million U.S. dollars) to the PA to avoid its collapse, but the PA refused to receive the money and sent it back to Israel. In February, the PA said that it refused to receive partial tax revenue dues from Israel after the latter deduct the amount the PA pays the families of prisoners jailed by Israel and the Palestinians killed in the conflict with Israel. Israel collects taxes from Palestinian importers on behalf of the PA as it controls the borders and ports, but it should pay the taxes back to the PA every month under a deal signed by the two sides. The PA Ministry of Finance said earlier that the monthly tax revenue dues it receives from Israel represent half of its monthly budget. Meanwhile, Shankar expressed the readiness of the World Bank and its institutions working under its umbrella in Palestine to raise the level of coordination to make the implemented projects meet the priorities of the Palestinian government. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-10 00:32:24|Editor: ZX Video Player Close A model walks the runway during the Zhejiang Traditional Craft Innovation Exhibition at Asia House in London, Britain on May 8, 2019. Organized by the Zhejiang Provincial Department of Culture and Tourism, the exhibition is a part of the fifth London Crafts Week and will last for four days. (Xinhua/Han Yan) LONDON, May 9 (Xinhua) -- An exhibition of traditional craft innovation of China's Zhejiang Province on Wednesday opened in London's Asia House, fusing Chinese traditional craft with the power of innovation. Organized by the Zhejiang Provincial Department of Culture and Tourism, the Zhejiang Traditional Craft Innovation exhibition is a part of the fifth London Crafts Week and will last for four days. According to the organizer, the exhibition is based on the design and interpretation of five traditional materials, namely bamboo, wood, silk, copper and china. It presents designs which demonstrate the innovation and power of Chinese traditional craft, with the aim of deepening understanding of the local culture of eastern China's Zhejiang Province in Britain and Europe, as well as encouraging an exchange of creative and cultural ideas. A fashion show is also staged at Asia House on Wednesday night, showing the audience the beauty of Chinese clothing techniques. The clothes worn by the models combine traditional Chinese elements with modern fashion trends, redefining the charm of traditional Chinese costumes, integrating traditional art into modern life, and giving the classic culture a new radiance, which has won warm applause from the audience. Wang Shenghong, designer of the show, said he believes art and culture is unbounded because the Internet has broken the boundary. "I feel that the Chinese and Western cultures will gradually merge in the future, and the integration will become more and more exciting, and more and more comfortable to all people," he said. After watching the exhibition and show, Irish architect and designer Angela Brady told Xinhua she loves the designs and thinks the colour is the workmanship and fashion style. "I think it's quite unique and special and that's what makes this Chinese but also international and appeals people like me," she said. Brady said collaboration between China and Ireland could be achieved through art and design craft. "I've worked in China as an architect on projects there and I've worked with Chinese people. And I can see we can come together in a very companionable way and I see this now through design craft." The fifth London Craft Week opened Wednesday in London, ushering in a five-day celebration of global creativity. More than 240 makers, designers, brands, artists and galleries from 15 countries participated in the event, offering the public a packed program of exhibitions, hands-on workshops, talks, creative experiences, and one-off events. According to the organizer, Zhejiang Province has always been committed to inheriting and developing excellent traditional craft and promoting the re-inheritance and re-design of traditional craft, which has the same goal with London Craft Week. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-10 01:02:37|Editor: yan Video Player Close TEHRAN, May 9 (Xinhua) -- Iranian Foreign Ministry on Thursday condemned fresh U.S. sanctions against the Islamic republic's metal exports after Iran decided to drop some of its commitments to the 2015 nuclear deal. In a statement, Iran's Foreign Ministry Spokesman Abbas Mousavi said the U.S. decision to impose new sanctions on Iran's industrial metal exports runs counter to Washington's international commitments. "These sanctions, like other unilateral U.S. sanctions, are in contravention of the basic principles and rules of international relations," Mousavi said, adding that Washington must be legally accountable for the violation of international treaties. On Wednesday, U.S. President Donald Trump imposed new sanctions targeting Iran's revenue from export of industrial metals, including iron, steel, aluminum, and copper sectors. The U.S. move followed Iran's withdrawal from implementing parts of its commitments under the landmark 2015 nuclear deal. Containers of China COSCO Shipping Corporation Limited are seen at the Port of Long Beach, Los Angeles County, the United States, on Feb. 27, 2019. (Xinhua/Li Ying) WASHINGTON, May 9 (Xinhua) -- A wide range of U.S. industry associations have expressed strong opposition to Washington's threat to raise tariffs on Chinese imports this week. "For 10 months, Americans have been paying the full cost of the trade war, not China," said the Tariffs Hurt the Heartland campaign, after the U.S. government announced that tariffs on 200 billion U.S. dollars of Chinese imports will go up from 10 percent to 25 percent on Friday. "To be clear, tariffs are taxes that Americans pay, and this sudden increase with little notice will only punish U.S. farmers, businesses and consumers," the anti-tariff campaign added in a statement. "Doubling down on taxing Americans as a negotiating tactic only makes a bad situation worse," it said. "This isn't leverage to get a better deal; it's taking money out of the pockets of hard-working Americans." Cleveland business and agricultural leaders gather on May 6 at local distiller Cleveland Whiskey to discuss the impact of trade tensions and looming tariff increases to the region's businesses, consumers and farmers. (Xinhua/Courtesy of Tariffshurt.com) In addition, "raising tariffs to 25 percent could cost nearly one million American jobs," it said, citing a report conducted by Trade Partnership Worldwide, LLC, an international trade and economic consulting firm. "This decision will also roil financial markets and increase the likelihood of retaliation on American farmers who are facing the lowest income levels in years," added the campaign, which comprises over 150 of America's largest trade organizations from across different industries. Naomi Wilson, the Information Technology Industry Council's senior director of policy for Asia, also pointed out that "increasing tariffs would only continue to harm American consumers and businesses of all sizes and across all sectors, as well as threaten American economic growth and leadership in innovation." Rick Kimberley, president of Kimberley Farm Inc., poses for a photo at his family farm in Maxwell, Iowa, the United States, on March 17, 2019. It would be a timely piece of good news for American farmers if the United States and China could reach a deal to defuse bilateral trade tensions before the Spring planting season, Rick Kimberley told Xinhua in a recent interview. (Xinhua/Li Muzi) Gary Shapiro, president and CEO of the Consumer Technology Association, said "implementing these 25 percent tariffs on just five-days notice would roil our markets, damage U.S. businesses and do serious harm to Americans' retirement funds and pensions." In the eyes of Auto Care Association President and CEO Bill Hanvey, the move would have "an immediate negative impact" on not only the U.S. businesses that manufacture and distribute auto parts, but also the motoring public who will see higher prices on a wide range of products, including important safety-related components. Containers of China COSCO Shipping Corporation Limited are seen at the Port of Long Beach, Los Angeles County, the United States, on Feb. 27, 2019. (Xinhua/Li Ying) Many urged the U.S. government to rethink. "We urge the administration to reconsider this tax hike on Americans and stay at the bargaining table until a deal is reached," the National Retail Federation's senior vice president for government relations, David French, said in a statement. American Apparel & Footwear Association President and CEO Rick Helfenbein also urged Washington to "refrain from imposing these additional tariffs and instead focus on negotiating and concluding the trade deal with China." Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-10 02:48:19|Editor: yan Video Player Close CAIRO, May 9 (Xinhua) -- Egypt's President Abdel-Fattah al-Sisi discussed Thursday in Cairo the latest developments in Libya with Khalifa Haftar, commander of the Libyan National Army (LNA), the Egyptian presidency said in a statement. In a statement, the presidency said that Haftar briefed Sisi on the latest developments and efforts done by the LNA to fight terrorism and radical militias and achieve stability and security in the country. Haftar also discussed Libyan efforts to combat the trafficking of arms and the movement of foreign fighters into Libya from abroad. For his part, Sisi stressed Egypt's support for the LNA's efforts to fight terrorism in all its forms as well its role in working towards reaching political solutions to the conflict in the country. Director of Egypt's General Intelligence Service Abbas Kamel attended the meeting. Since April, eastern-based Libyan forces led by Haftar have been advancing in a push to seize the capital, Tripoli, but troops loyal to Prime Minister Fayez Al-Serraj's internationally recognized government have so far kept them at bay. Since the ouster and killing of former Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi in 2011, Libyan factions have been engaged in a civil war that escalated in 2014, resulting in splitting power between two rival governments in the northwestern city of Tripoli and the northeastern city of Tobruk respectively. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-10 04:29:11|Editor: Liangyu Video Player Close Martin Shanahan, CEO of Industrial Development Authority (IDA) Ireland, addresses a seminar in Dublin, Ireland, May 8, 2019. China is an extraordinarily important source for Ireland's FDI, said Martin Shanahan during an interview with Xinhua on Wednesday after addressing the seminar organized by a local think tank AsiaMatters. (Xinhua) by Zhang Qi DUBLIN, May 9 (Xinhua) -- China is an extraordinarily important source for Ireland's foreign direct investment (FDI), said a senior official in charge of the country's FDI during an interview with Xinhua. "We have enjoyed excellent partnership with Chinese companies over many years," said Martin Shanahan, CEO of IDA (Industrial Development Authority) Ireland, a government-sponsored body responsible for attracting FDI into Ireland, here on Wednesday, after addressing a seminar organized by a local think tank AsiaMatters on the growing strategic importance of Asia in the future development of Ireland's FDI. "There are 25 Chinese companies which have already invested in Ireland. The Chinese investment is a key part of the strategy of IDA Ireland. Under our new strategy, now we plan to focus even more on Chinese investment into Ireland," he said. According to Shanahan, the Chinese companies in Ireland currently employ more than 900 people, a figure lower than the 2,000-plus number announced by the Chinese embassy in Ireland last year. The IDA figure may only refer to Irish citizens while the Chinese companies in Ireland also employ some non-Irish nationals. The Chinese companies in Ireland are mainly engaged in sectors of technology and financial services, said Shanahan, adding that all the top six Chinese banks, including the Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (ICBC) and Bank of China, have established their presence in the country, mostly engaged in the aircraft leasing business. "We have seen the continuous expansion of Huawei in Ireland and the Bank of China which set up a Dublin branch in 2017, the first commercial operation ever set up by Chinese banks in Ireland," he said. Up till last year, said the CEO, "we have also seen the expansion of the Chinese companies into the fields of pharmaceuticals and biologics. Some very significant wins are seen in these areas, particularly WuXi Biologics which has announced a 325-million-euro (about 365 million U.S. dollars) investment into a biopharmaceuticals manufacturing plant in Dundalk." According to Shanahan, the Chinese investment in Dundalk, a city in northeast Ireland, is expected to create hundreds of local jobs. It is Shanahan's belief that China as well as other growth markets in the world will play a significant role in IDA's new strategy to re-balance the country's FDI portfolio. The United States has been a major source of FDI for Ireland for many years, accounting for about 72 percent of the country's FDI in 2015 and 2016. "Like any business, if you are looking at your portfolio and you are heavily relying on one source you would be concerned," said Shanahan, adding that the first thing he did after becoming the CEO of IDA in 2014 was to develop a new strategy for FDI in Ireland. Last year, the share of U.S. investment in Ireland's total FDI dropped to 65 percent while the most rapidly growing part of the FDI portfolio in Ireland was the growth markets dominated by Asia, which has increased by 25 percent since 2014. While Ireland continues to foster its ties and grow its partnership with the United States, it will "focus on where the growth will be," he said, adding "All projections indicate that we should heavily focus in Asia." "We continue to see opportunity in China. It is a significant focus for IDA. Our focus will be to deepen the ties we have established with the Chinese companies and also expand the sectors where we can attract more Chinese investment," noted Shanahan. At the seminar which drew about 50 people including representatives from some leading Asian companies and embassies of some Asian countries in Ireland, Shanahan also expressed his concern about rising protectionism in global trade. "Anything that impedes global trade is not good for Ireland and it has the potential to impact Ireland's ability to woo FDI and to trade with the rest of the world," he said. Ireland, as one of the most globalized economies in the world, will continue to voice its support for trade globalization and promote the idea of rules-based international trading system, Shanahan pledged. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-10 04:39:14|Editor: Shi Yinglun Video Player Close A fighter from forces of the UN-backed Libyan government fires at Libyan National Army (LNA) troops at the Al-Yarmook frontline in Tripoli, Libya, on May 9, 2019. With intensified ground fighting and a significant increase in airstrikes on southern Tripoli, the United Nations is "extremely concerned" about heavy casualties, a UN spokesman said on Thursday. The conflict broke out over a month ago when forces loyal to Khalifa Haftar's self-styled Libyan National Army attacked Tripoli. (Xinhua/Amru Salahuddien) UNITED NATIONS, May 9 (Xinhua) -- With intensified ground fighting and a significant increase in airstrikes on southern Tripoli, the United Nations is "extremely concerned" about heavy casualties, a UN spokesman said on Thursday. "Our colleagues on the ground say fighting in southern Tripoli has intensified with a significant increase in airstrikes," said Farhan Haq, deputy spokesman for UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. "We continue to be extremely concerned about the heavy toll on civilians and health workers." The World Health Organization (WHO) said that, since the Libyan conflict escalated in early April, 11 additional ambulances have been impacted or suffered collateral damage. More than 400 people were killed and at least 2,000 wounded. The humanitarian coordinator for Libya, Maria Ribeiro, and the WHO strongly condemned an attack on an armored ambulance in Tripoli on Wednesday that left three health workers injured, including the director of the Ambulance and Emergency Medical Services. The "direct attack of a marked ambulance ... is absolutely abhorrent and should not be tolerated," said Ribeiro. "Those who ordered and carried out this attack must take legal and moral responsibility for this heinous act", she said. The WHO described the attack on a logo-marked ambulance as a "shocking and intolerable violation of international humanitarian law." Dr Syed Jaffar Hussain, WHO Representative in Libya, said that "not only did this attack injure key personnel, but the ambulance itself was taken away, thereby depriving patients of future care." While the identity of the perpetrator was not specified, Ribeiro said it was carried out "reportedly by Libyan National Army (LNA)-affiliated fighters." The conflict broke out over a month ago when forces loyal to Khalifa Haftar's self-styled Libyan National Army attacked Tripoli, seat of the internationally-recognized Government of National Accord. The UN secretary-general's special representative in Libya, Ghassan Salame, is expected to continue his outreach to international partners in the next few days when he visits several European capitals to discuss ways to immediately stop the fighting and resume a political dialogue, said Haq, the spokesman. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-10 04:49:19|Editor: yan Video Player Close CAPE TOWN, May 9 (Xinhua) -- South Africa's Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) said on Thursday it will urgently conduct an audit of results and votes in a sample of voting stations to ascertain if double voting occurred in the just-concluded general elections. The audit will cover a statistically representative sample of voting stations as well as all voting stations where complaints or allegations of double voting have been received, the IEC said. The final number and selection of the sample will be determined in conjunction with expert statisticians, said the commission. The audit will involve the capture of information showing the ID numbers of voters who cast votes at each voting station from the "zip-zip" scanners and completed ballot forms, according to the commission. This data will then be cross-referenced and compared to identify any instances of multiple voting to help establish scientifically whether such instances were isolated or systemic and what the material impact is, if any, to the results, the commission said. This came after two separate instances were brought to the attention of the IEC in which some voters allegedly cast more than one vote at different voting stations in the national and provincial elections that took place on Wednesday. On Wednesday, South African voters headed to the polls to elect a new National Assembly and provincial legislatures in each province. The elections will also determine who will become the next president. The IEC earlier assured the nation of the overall integrity of the elections despite the alleged instances of double voting. As required by law, the IEC has seven days to announce the results of the elections. The IEC said it is confident the auditing will be completed in time to provide assurance of the integrity of the results within this period. The commission said it will only announce the results when it is 100-percent confident in the integrity and legitimacy of those results. The commission called on political parties, the media and all South Africans to show patience, calm and restraint as the process to ensure confidence is undertaken. Also on Thursday, police arrested 20 suspects in three KwaZulu-Natal municipalities for "double voting." It remains unknown about what political parties these suspects are affiliated with. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-10 04:49:20|Editor: Shi Yinglun Video Player Close BUDAPEST, May 9 (Xinhua) -- Hungary and Brazil share similar approaches to important matters causing dilemmas in global politics such as migration, Hungarian Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade Peter Szijjarto said here on Thursday. "We are proud to be among the six countries that voted against the United Nations Migration Compact, the most dangerous document ever," said Szijjarto at a joint press conference held with Brazilian Foreign Minister Ernesto Araujo. "We reserve the right to decide who should enter and with whom we'll live together in our very own country," he underlined, adding that Hungary and Brazil agreed to coordinate their actions in international forums in the future. Hungary supported Brazil's efforts to become a member of the United Nations Security Council and to join the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), said Szijjarto. The Hungarian government set up a 415-million-euro (about 465.4 million U.S. dollars) credit line with Hungary's Eximbank to finance bilateral business cooperation focusing on the promotion of Hungarian exports of food, IT, water management and pharmaceutical products. The goal of the Hungarian government was to strengthen the Hungarian companies' activities in Brazil, the minister noted, adding that a new impetus was needed concerning bilateral trade. Araujo, in his turn, said both Hungary and Brazil were countries committed to "making their voices heard." Brazil was fully ready to cooperate with Hungary in multilateral organizations to protect their values. Before the press conference, the two ministers signed a bilateral agreement on the extradition of criminals. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-10 05:09:31|Editor: yan Video Player Close CHICAGO, May 9 (Xinhua) -- The Second U.S. International Chinese Cuisine Forum will be held during the upcoming 2019 Centennial National Restaurant Association (NRA) Show, which is scheduled on May 18-21 in Chicago. Tony Hu, chairman of the American Chinese Restaurant Institute who will host the forum, made the announcement at a press conference on Wednesday night in Chicago. Chinese cuisine experts and restaurant owners from around the United States will gather at the forum to share experiences related to Chinese cuisine, discuss the challenges Chinese cuisine faces, exchange views on the development of Chinese cuisine, and envision the prospects of Chinese cuisine in the United States. Chinese Deputy Consul General in Chicago Huang Liming said Chinese cuisine has spread rapidly in recent years worldwide. It has not only met the needs of local residents for Chinese foods, but also provided a window for people worldwide to know China and understand China. "Chinese cuisine is part of the Chinese culture," Huang said. To spread Chinese cuisine is also promoting Chinese culture. Huang hoped that Chinese cuisine may become a bridge of promoting mutual understanding between Chinese and the U.S. people. Chinese cuisine came into the United States with the first group of Chinese railway workers some 150 years ago. There are now nearly 50,000 Chinese restaurants across the United States. Chinese cuisine now faces such challenges as sanitary problem and lack of unified standards in the United States. How to enhance the level and status of Chinese cuisine will also be the focus of the forum. The American Chinese Restaurant Institute, established in 2018, will also organize Chinese restaurants to present Chinese foods and cooking skills at the 100th NRA Show. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-10 05:19:34|Editor: yan Video Player Close BAGHDAD, May 9 (Xinhua) -- Eight people were killed and 12 other injured on Thursday in a suicide bomb attack at a marketplace in Sadr City neighborhood in eastern the Iraqi capital Baghdad, a police source told Xinhua. The incident occurred in the evening when a suicide bomber detonated his explosive vest at Jamila popular market in Sadr City neighborhood, Ihsan Ali from Baghdad police said. "The latest reports said that eight people were killed and 12 others wounded by the blast of the suicide bomber in Sadr City," Ali said. The blast destroyed several nearby stalls and shops in the crowded Jamila market, Ali added. The attack took place at rush time in the evening just after Iftar meal, or the break of the daylight fasting in holy month of Ramadan. Iraqi security forces sealed off the area and prevented people from approaching the scene, while ambulances were moving to evacuate the victims. Baghdad Operations Command, which is responsible for the security of Baghdad, confirmed the attack in a statement without giving further details. No group has so far claimed responsibility for the attack, but the Islamic State (IS) militant group, in most cases, is responsible for such deadly suicide attacks targeting security forces and areas where crowds of people gather, including markets, cafes and mosques across Iraq. The security situation in Iraq has been improved since Iraqi security forces fully defeated the extremist IS militants across the country late in 2017. The IS remnants, however, have since melted in urban areas or resorted to deserts and rugged areas, carrying out frequent guerilla attacks against security forces and civilians. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-10 05:34:41|Editor: yan Video Player Close HELSINKI, May 9 (Xinhua) -- Finnish icebreaking maritime industry is awaiting major deals from the United States as a result of the latter's increased interest in the Arctic. During the Arctic Council Ministerial Meeting in Rovaniemi earlier this week, U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo delighted the Finns by saying on Finnish television that the State Department supports building six new polar icebreakers for the U.S. Coast Guard. Finnish shipbuilding industries are leading experts in icebreaker maritime technology. Finnish national broadcaster Yle said on Thursday that Finnish companies were now looking for hundreads of millions of dollars worth of commerce. The U.S. has currently one 43-year-old large polar icebreaker in service. One icebreaker has now been ordered from a wharf in Missisipi. Pompeo said in Rovaniemi that five more would be built. In the U.S., icebreakers are considered military vessels and must have a 51 percent U.S. production input. The rest is open for tender. Dozen of Finnish companies were awaiting sub-construction and consultancy deals, Yle reported. At the Sea-Air-Space fair in Washington this week, Kari Hietanen, vice president of the Finnish company Wartsila, told Yle that he was confident the Finns get "some kind of share" in the first ship. The total cost of six ice breakers was given as four billion euros (about 4.49 billion U.S. dollars), according to Yle. During the ministerial meeting, Pompeo warned the Arctic nations of possible influence from China and Russia in the Arctic, and pledged rebuilding the U.S. ice breaker fleet as part of the new moves. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-10 05:39:43|Editor: yan Video Player Close RIYADH, May 9 (Xinhua) -- Saudi Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Adel al-Jubeir met with Chinese Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Chen Weiqing here on Thursday, discussing development of bilateral ties between the two countries. During the meeting, Chen said that the relationship between China and Saudi Arabia has been developing rapidly with continued cooperation in various fields. Noting that next year will mark the 30th anniversary of the establishment of China-Saudi Arabia diplomatic relationship, Chen said that China is willing to work with Saudi to constantly enrich the connotation of bilateral relations and promote progress in their ties. Al-Jubeir said that the China-Saudi Arabia relationship maintains a momentum of sound development with steady progress in cooperation in traditional fields such as politics, energy and infrastructure. Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud's fruitful visit to China showed that the two countries attached great importance to the bilateral relationship, Al-Jubeir added. Saudi Arabia will continue to work with China to expand new areas of cooperation and better serve the overall interests of their comprehensive strategic partnership under the implementation of the consensus reached by the leaders of the two countries, the Saudi official said. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-10 05:44:45|Editor: yan Video Player Close ADEN, Yemen, May 9 (Xinhua) -- Fighters of the Houthis group renewed their shelling against the Red Sea Mills in the war-torn western port city of Hodeidah on Thursday, causing damages to the grain facility, a military spokesman told Xinhua. "The Houthi fighters launched a random mortar shelling on the Red Sea Mills in Hodeidah despite the cease-fire in the city," said Waddah Dubaish, spokesman for joint pro-government forces in the country's western coast. He said that serious damages affected one of the silos containing tons of grain, causing a fire that destroyed large quantities of grain at the facility. The military spokesman added that the Houthi shelling took place at the time when several millers were present and working for the re-operation of the grain facility under the supervision of the World Food Program (WFP). He explained that "the Red Sea Mills employees, who have been working since last Sunday, for maintenance and rehabilitation of the facility, stopped working after the bombing, and were about to leave for their safety." Last Friday, an international team of seven experts began a visit to the war-torn province of Hodeidah, in preparation for restarting the Red Sea Mills operations, which have been stalled since last September. The UN team accompanied by workers and millers managed to gain access to the government-controlled grain facility located near the military frontlines with the Houthis on the southern outskirts of Hodeidah last Sunday. The Saudi-backed Yemeni government forces repeatedly accuse the Houthi gunmen of shelling the Red Sea Mills more than once during the past months. In February, a team from the WFP and several organizations visited the Red Sea Mills for the first time since last September after being inaccessible because of the military conflict raging in Hodeidah. The Red Sea Mills belong to Yemen's private sector and hold 51,000 metric tons of grain, which is enough to feed more than 3.7 million people for a month. The WFP has also a number of warehouses filled with large amounts of grain at the Red Sea Mills in Hodeidah. The Iran-allied Houthi rebels control the city while the Saudi-backed government troops have advanced to the southeastern outskirts. Hodeidah is the key lifeline entry point for the country's most food imports and humanitarian aid. The four-year grinding war has pushed over 20 million people to the verge of starvation. Yemeni warring parties reached a peace deal on Hodeidah in December last year as a first step toward brokering a comprehensive political solution. Sporadic breaches are daily recorded in Hodeidah as the two belligerent sides failed to withdraw their forces in accordance with an agreement reached in the Swedish capital Stockholm. Stiri pe aceeasi tema - The deputies and senators approved, on Wednesday night, in the joint plenary sitting, the draft budget for 2022 on articles and the final vote will be given on Thursday. In the sitting that lasted over 6 hours, were approved, among others, the budgets of the Presidential Administration, the - On Friday, President Klaus Iohannis signed the decree by which the Minister of Energy, Virgil Popescu, is appointed interim Minister of Research, Innovation and Digitalisation, the Presidential Administration informed. Also, the head of state signed the decree acknowledging the resignation - O divizie a companiei Walt Disney Co. gazduieste un eveniment destinat copiilor angajatilor, cu intentia de a sarbatori fluiditatea de gen a copilariei, oferind in acelasi timp copiilor modele de queer, conform capturilor de ecran din e-mailuri interne vazute de publicatia americana Breitbart - President Klaus Iohannis will pay a state visit to the Arab Republic of Egypt on Wednesday, at the invitation of his counterpart, Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, the Presidential Administration informed. According to the quoted source, the visit takes place within the very good bilateral dialogue of recent - State ale Uniunii Europene au trimis medicamente anti-COVID-19 si echipamente Romaniei, care se confrunta cu o inmultire a infectarilor, in mare masura in randul majoritatii nevaccinate a populatiei adulte, scrie Reuters. - The U.S. Department of State announces that the DV-2023 registration period begins on October 6, 2021 and runs through November 9, 2021, the American Embassy in Bucharest said in a release. The DV-2023 program is entirely electronic and there is no fee for entering the program. Entries - The chairman of the Social Democratic Party (PSD), Marcel Ciolacu, reiterated on Monday evening, at private broadcaster Romania TV, that his party will not support a minority government, believing the solution to be a technocratic government until early elections. He added that, in his opinion, - On Monday, President Klaus Iohannis signed decrees opening Romania's consulates general in Rome and Paris, according to the Presidential Administration. He also signed a decree opening Romania's consulate in Melbourne, Australia, Agerpres.ro informs. Fetita din Alba, data disparuta de acasa, a fost gasita in Sibiu IPJ Alba a anuntat, sambata, ca minora a fost gasita, in stare buna, pe raza judetului Sibiu. Stirea initiala Politistii din Alba cauta o minora care a plecat de la locuinta sa din Biia, comuna Sona si nu a mai revenit. Persoanele care pot da informatii care [citeste mai departe] Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 23:40:00|Editor: yan Video Player Close LUSAKA, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Wang Junqi is a Chinese medical doctor, who is part of the 20th Chinese Medical Team that has been in Zambia since May last year. After almost one year of working at the Levy Mwanawasa University Teaching Hospital (China-Zambia Friendship Hospital) in Lusaka, the Zambian capital, the 34-year-old doctor says he will always cherish the time he spent working in the southern African nation with various patients. Wang, a specialist in Ear, Nose and Throat, says he committed himself to ensure that he delivers the best services to his patients during his tour of duty. "I regarded all my patients as my friends who needed my help and if I had a chance I had to give them my best therapy," he told Xinhua in an interview. The youngest member of the medical team, which is expected to return to China next month, said he attended to more than 2,300 patients and conducted over 130 operations. He said he tried to do his best in providing health care services to his patients as a Chinese doctor, and worked to maintain the strong relationship that has existed between the two countries in the medical field for the past 41 years. According to him, he created warm and cordial relations with local workers at the hospital who helped him in his work and that he ensured that he imparted his expertise to them. Even as he gets back to China, he says his friendship with his Zambian workmate will not end as they intend to continue coordinating through various social media platforms such as WhatsApp and Wechat. Among some of the complicated cases he worked on included removing coin from child as well as fish bones from patients. His workmates are full of praise for his work and the knowledge he has imparted on them in the field of ear, nose and throat surgeries. Sabina Chanda, who has worked at the Ear, Nose and Throat Department since January this year, praised the Chinese doctor over his expertise as he conducted so many procedures and helped so many patients. She said the hospital used to refer patients with complicated problems to other hospitals for surgeries but indicated that this ended following the arrival of the Chinese who conducted all surgeries. She further thanked him for imparting his skills on her as well as her colleagues, adding that they are now able to diagnose and do surgeries on patients with ear, nose or throat problems. "We hope the Chinese government will bring someone who is like him or they should bring him back again because the one year he has been here is too short. We want him to spend some more time here so that he can teach other Zambian doctors," she said. Ruth Phiri, who has worked at the hospital for the past four years, also had kind words for the Chinese doctor, whom she described as "a good and experienced doctor". She said many patients from different parts of the country have been helped by him, adding that his services will be missed. "Patients are happy because he is a blessing to us. We have learnt a lot from him because before we were not able to do nose, ear and throat treatment and remove things but now we are able to do that," she said. May 8, the Russian occupants violated the ceasefire regime five times in the Donbas combat zone. One Ukrainian soldier died as a result of the attack. The Joint Forces Operation (JFO) HQ reported this on Facebook. According to the report, all the shells happened in the Donets region. The pro-Kremlin militants opened fire at the positions of the Joint Forces operation near Mariinka, Pavlopil, Lebedynske and Opytne settlements. The illegal armed of forces of the Russia Federation fired with the grenade launchers of various systems, heavy machine guns, and small arms. As a result of the attack, one serviceman of the Joint Forces operation perished. The Armed Forces of Ukraine stopped the fire by opening fire as well. The enemys casualties have been checking yet, the report said. Earlier, One Ukrainian soldier died in Donbas on May 8. Militants violate ceasefire in Donetsk sector twice on May 8. Marinka and Pavlopil came under fire from Minsk-banned weapons. Earlier European Union, European Bank of Reconstruction and Development, World Bank and Energy Community strongly supported the necessity of transit from the existing green tariff , acting in Ukrainian legislation, to the competitive system based on the green auctions. A joint letter of the representatives of these organizations states that. The letter is addressed to Oleksandr Dombrovsky, the chairman of the relevant committee, Andriy Paruby, the Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada, and the Prime Minister Volodymyr Groysman. The signatories comment on the preparation of the bill No. 8449-d on amendments to the laws of Ukraine on providing competitive circumstances for generation of electricity from alternative sources. European Bank of Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) and International Financial Corporation (IFC) believe that the current system is no longer suitable for the long-run development of the sector, though it was useful for its launch. As the result, EBRD will not be able to finance new projects in Ukraine, depending on the green tariff, with exception of those already in the stage of development, unless the law will be adopted to guarantee the long term of the sectors economic stability to facilitate the necessary comfort for investors and sponsors, reads the message. Open source The Russian Federation expelled two Swedish diplomats from the country, Reuters reported, citing a representative of the Swedish Foreign Ministry. "Previously, Sweden made a decision that one Russian diplomat would not receive extended visa, and after that we rejected Russian applications for diplomatic visas. Russia responded by asking two Swedish diplomats to leave the country," he said, refusing to discuss the details of the incident. Russian Foreign Ministry confirmed the issue, but they are also didn't provide other comments. In March, Russian diplomat Yevgeny Umerenko and his wife left Sweden after he was caught trying to recruit a Swedish computer specialist. After that, Russia submitted an application for sending new diplomats in Sweden, but the country refused to issue new diplomatic visas. Related: Russian Embassy in Czech Republic leases flats provided for diplomats Earlier the shooting began near the Embassy of Ukraine in London. According to the report, the car intentionally rammed the official vehicle of the Ambassador of Ukraine to the United Kingdom, which was parked near the diplomatic department. The police immediately arrived at the scene and blocked the intruder. However, despite this, the driver hit the ambassadors car again. "In response, the police was forced to open fire on the attacker's car. He was detained and taken to the police station," the report says. None of the embassy staff was hurt. The United States cannot and will not negotiate away the rights of the Ukrainian people. Only Ukrainians can decide their future, and they have made it clear that they want their sovereignty, their territory to be part of Euro-Atlantic structures, Volker wrote. He assured that Ukraine can count on the full support of the United States. Earlier, The United States cannot and will not negotiate away the rights of the Ukrainian people. Only Ukrainians can decide their future, and they have made it clear that they want their sovereignty, their territory to be part of Euro-Atlantic structures, Volker wrote. He assured that Ukraine can count on the full support of the United States. Earlier, Over last five years the USA imposed a lot of different sanctions against the Russian Federation: due to the annexation of Crimea, disbanding by the Minsk agreements concerning Donbas, capturing of Ukrainian sailors in the Kerch Strait, and due to Skripals poisoning in Salisbury, Volker said. At the same time he the special representative added, that no new decisions Washington have been adopted yet. Nevertheless, according to the report, the USA is concerned about the situation that happened, and the USA is regarding Putins decision as the provocation that exactly contradicts the plan for the reintegration of these territories back to Ukraine, as stated in the Minsk agreements. According to the results of expertises, the Crimean Tatar as if was illegally keeping the ammunition Edem Bekirov, the political prisoner Eleonora Bekirova Facebook The results of three expertises concerning the case of Crimean Tatar Edem Bekirov, who is accused of allegedly unlawful keeping of ammunition and explosives, were passed to the court in annexed Crimea on May 7. Eleonora Bekirova, the daughter of Bekirov, posted this on Facebook. Bekirova clarified that the forensic-biological, psychiatric, forensic-ballistic and explosive-technical expertises have been conducted. According to the results of the psychiatric expertise, my father is considered to be liable. And we do agree with this one. However, with results of two others we absolutely disagree, she wrote. According to Bekirova, the ballistic expertise (explosive-technical) and biological one showed that on the seized ammunition and explosives there are fingerprints of Bekirov and the latent witness - Karim Memetov. However, the biological mass of my dad was taken at the very first day before the official announcement of the detention. Under non-procedural circumstances, violently, without the presence of a lawyer and witnesses, Bekirova outlined. The fingerprints as if have been detected on the tape, which wrapped ammunition and explosives, and a rope that fixed a backpack with them. As we reported earlier, the health situation of Crimean Tatar political prisoner Bekirov is critical. Russian law enforcers detained Crimean Tatar Edem Bekirov at the entrance to occupied Crimea on December 12, 2018. Edem was heading from mainland Ukraine to Crimea to visit his 78-year-old mother and relatives. According to Ukrainian MP Refat Chubarov, Bekirov was arrested during passport control on the territory controlled by the Russian law enforcers. Later, Chubarov noted that the detainee was taken to Russias Security Service office in annexed Simferopol. Earlier Olena Berezhna, a mother of Iryna Berezhna, a former MP from the Party of Regions (Yanukovychs party at his presidency) before the beginning of the action Immortal Regiment was detained in the center of Kyiv. RBK-Ukraine reported this. The woman tried to enter the territory, where the march took place, in a T-shirt of colors of the St. George's ribbon. The legislation of Ukraine equates it to the symbolism of totalitarian regimes. A public demonstration of such signs involves administrative liability. After a verbal dispute and refusal to stop the offense, Berezhna was arrested by the police. It should be noted that last year Olena Berezhna was detained during the march Immortal Regiment for the same reason. Let us recall, Olena Berezhna is known for her anti-Ukrainian views, publications in social networks and regular appearances on Russian television. Her daughter, Irina Berezhna, died on August 5, 2017, in a car accident on the Adriatic coast. The criminal proceeding was launched under the claim of a former employee of the Verkhovna Rada concerning events, which occurred in 2002 when Parubiy had not been the spokesperson of the parliament yet Spokesperson of Verkhovna Rada Andriy Parubiy The Verkhovna Rada Spokesperson of Verkhovna Rada Andriy Parubiy initiated the questioning. Today he arrived at the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office to meet with the prosecutor, responsible for the case under the suspicion of misuse of public funds. The press secretary of the spokesperson of the parliament Andriy Kovaliov posted on Facebook. The Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine has initiated immediately questioning concerning this criminal proceeding today. He arrived at the prosecutor of the Specialized Anti-Corruption Bureau, who is responsible for the case, the report said. Besides, Kovaliov added that during the questioning, it was found out that this case was opened under the claim of a former employee from the staff of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine. According to the report, the claim has nothing to do with the spokesperson of parliament Andriy Parubiy. The suspended employee from the staff of the Verkhovna Rada claimed that the department of the Verkhovna Rada, which was founded in 2002, was formed illegally. I emphasize: it is about 2002. Andriy Parubiy has no relations to forming of any departments of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine, including in 2002, he clarified. As we reported earlier, Ukraines National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) opened a criminal proceeding against the Spokesperson of Verkhovna Rada Andriy Parubiy under the suspicion of misuse of public funds. Volker himself wants to meet with Zelensky in order to discuss the Donbas conflict The delegation of the high level will arrive at the inauguration of the newly elected president of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky. The special representative of the U.S. State Department on Ukraine Kurt Volker stated this in the interview to the Russian BBC. The delegation of the high level will visit the presidents inauguration in Kyiv, Ukraine. We are waiting for the announcement of the accurate date and then we will choose the accurate members of the delegation. At those days I will try to meet with him in order to discuss the Donbas conflict and the steps, which could be implemented in order to bring peace to these territories again, Volker stated. Besides, Volker added that it will be the highest level of delegates, which suits the status of the inauguration of the head of state, which is the friend to the USA. Earlier, the Verkhovna Rada registered the bill on holding the solemn session devoted to the President-elect Volodymyr Zelensky making an oath on May 19, 2019. The document was passed to the review of the parliaments authorities. Ukraine's Parliament has registered one more the bill on holding the solemn session devoted to the President-elect Volodymyr Zelensky making an oath and start performing his duties. Olena Berezhna tried to enter the territory, where the march took place, in a T-shirt of colors of the St. George's ribbon Olena Berezhna, a mother of Iryna Berezhna, a former MP from the Party of Regions (Yanukovychs party at his presidency) before the beginning of the action Immortal Regiment was detained in the center of Kyiv. RBK-Ukraine reported this. The woman tried to enter the territory, where the march took place, in a T-shirt of colors of the St. George's ribbon. The legislation of Ukraine equates it to the symbolism of totalitarian regimes. A public demonstration of such signs involves administrative liability. After a verbal dispute and refusal to stop the offense, Berezhna was arrested by the police. It should be noted that last year Olena Berezhna was detained during the march Immortal Regiment for the same reason. Let us recall, Olena Berezhna is known for her anti-Ukrainian views, publications in social networks and regular appearances on Russian television. Her daughter, Irina Berezhna, died on August 5, 2017, in a car accident on the Adriatic coast. As we reported earlier, today, May 9, Ukraine marks the Day of Victory over Nazism in the Second World War. May 9, the President-elect went to his home town Kryvyi Rih, where he visited the grave of his grandfather, who served during WWII President-elect of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky went to his home town Kryvyi Rih (the Dnipropetrovsk region) on the Victory day over Nazism. There he visited the grave of his grandfather, who served during the Second World War, as the press service of Zelensky reported. Today, I am near the grave of my grandfather Zelensky Semen Ivanovych. He withstood the whole war, and I will always remember him as one of those heroes, who defended Ukraine from Nazi. Pity, that we recollect veterans so rarely, our grandparents. We should be very grateful to them every day, Zelensky wrote. The newly elected president pointed out that May 9 today is our Day of Gratitude. Gratitude for that they left the inhuman Nazi ideology in the past forever. Gratitude to those, who fought against Nazism and won. And we should be grateful to everybody for the opportunity just to be born and to live, Zelesnky added. According to the report, the war touched upon every Ukrainian family, and the contribution to the victory by Ukrainian people is enormous. Nobody has the right to privatize this victory and to claim that it could have happened without Ukrainians. Lets remember those, who perished away. Lets commemorate those, who are still alive, there are only a few of them left. Congratulation on the Day of victory over Nazism! We will live! President-elect wrote. As we reported earlier, today, May 9, Ukraine marks the Day of Victory over Nazism in the Second World War. The Pentagon will release a new annual report on active-duty military suicides this year -- one that will provide complete data for 2018 as well as a first-ever look at suicides among military family members. In a hearing before the House Oversight and Reform national security subcommittee Wednesday, Navy Capt. Mike Colston, the Defense Department's mental health director, and Defense Suicide Prevention Office Director Karin Orvis said the new report will allow for more timely publication of suicide rates, which are a more accurate measure of trends than yearly tallies. Currently, the DoD publishes quarterly reports of the number of deaths in the previous three months, with the year-end data included in the fourth-quarter report for the calendar year. It also publishes the Department of Defense Suicide Event Report, or DoDSER, an in-depth look at each suicide and suicide attempt for the year, including rates, methods, circumstances, prior medical history and more. It is usually published 18 months to two years after the subject year. Related content: But the DoD has not published the final figures or the rates for 2018 and declined to provide them earlier this month when asked by Military.com. Instead, they will be included in the new report, called the Annual Suicide Report, expected this summer, officials said. "The Annual Suicide Report will enable us to monitor trends in suicide over time and identify risk factors for protective factors for suicide," Orvis told lawmakers during the hearing. The U.S. military in 2018 experienced the highest number of suicides among active-duty troops in six years, according to data compiled by Military.com from statistics provided by the services. A total of 321 active-duty members took their lives during the year, including 57 Marines, 68 sailors, 58 airmen, and 138 soldiers. The deaths equal the total number of active-duty personnel who died by suicide in 2012, the record since the services began closely tracking the issue in 2001. The suicide rate among active-duty troops doubled from 1999 to 2016, to nearly 22 per 100,000 service members. Colston called it the Defense Department's "biggest public health problem." "Our trend is worse than the secular trend, and we need to fix it," Colston said. But while much attention has been focused on the issue of veteran suicides and the 6,000 former service members who die each year, suicides among active-duty personnel remain under the radar and stubbornly high. Colston and Orvis said the DoD has improved mental health treatment, embedded therapists and mental health providers in units, and introduced a policy in 2017 on suicide prevention. Orvis said the Pentagon is currently evaluating compliance across the services with the policy, DoD Instruction 6490.16. Following a record number of deaths by suicide in 2012, the Pentagon also established a general officer steering committee on suicide prevention to address "present, emerging and future suicide prevention needs." The steering committee is intended to provide guidance to the department on successful suicide prevention efforts. But a source with knowledge of the committee's meetings told Military.com in early February that the number of generals attending the meeting dropped significantly after former Army Vice Chief of Staff Gen. Pete Chiarelli, a champion of mental health treatment for troops and suicide prevention efforts, retired in 2012. Orvis, who was named to her post in March, said the department has made strides in addressing the issue within the services. "I know we have much more work to do, but I take this charge very seriously." Terri Tanielian, an analyst with Rand Corp. who has studied mental health and suicide prevention for more than 25 years, described the past six years of increasing suicide rates among Americans, veterans and military personnel as a "harrowing rallying cry for improved effort in suicide prevention." "There have been major awareness campaigns -- pushup challenges, the sale of trigger rings -- designed to call on the public to do something. But what are we asking them to do? As a nation, we need to do more than just acknowledge we have a veteran suicide problem," Tanielian said. She said the DoD and the Department of Veterans Affairs must continue their current efforts but also should take a four-pronged approach to suicide that includes zero tolerance for assault and harassment, including sexual assault; reduction in work-related stress, which can increase dependence on alcohol and cause lack of sleep, both known risk factors for suicide; work to improve the U.S. mental health system overall; and reduce access to firearms. "Firearms are the method of suicide for more than 70 percent of suicide deaths," Tanielian said. "Policies that directly address the risk that firearms pose need to be created, enacted and tested." Rep. Mark Green, a Tennessee Republican who served as an Army physician in Iraq and Afghanistan, suggested another option for supporting troops -- religious faith. Citing statistics that people with strong spiritual beliefs have lower rates of suicide, Green said military chaplains and religious troops should be supported by commands. "Not every soldier is religious, but those who are should have access to services. It seems there is an assault on religion within the military. ... The associations that represent chaplains have all expressed to us that their members can't address the spiritual needs of warriors," he said. A couple of subcommittee members raised the issue of medical marijuana. Rep. Harley Rouda, D-California, asked about research and its potential role as a therapy for veterans; Rep. Paul Gosar, R-Arizona, staunchly opposed its use. It would not be an option, regardless, for active-duty troops, who are prohibited from taking drugs other than prescribed medications. A VA official said marijuana and cannabis must be thoroughly researched before they could be recommended for mental health use. "This is country that thought it could control fentanyl, and we ended up with one of the greatest health crises. This is the country that thought it could control alcohol, and it remains a public health debacle. Cannabis in the 1960s was 2% psychotropic. Cannabis today at 22-23% is not the same. We need the opportunity to do substantial research ... before we could recommend anything," said Dr. Richard Stone, executive in charge of the Veterans Health Administration. A few family members of military personnel who died by suicide attended the hearing and expressed gratitude that the subcommittee held it. They said, however, that they were disappointed by what they saw as an emphasis on veterans and a lack of rigorous questioning of the two Pentagon representatives on the continued high rates of active-duty suicide. Patrick Caserta's son Brandon Caserta, a Navy sailor who died by suicide June 25 in Norfolk, Virginia, said the Pentagon representatives failed to discuss contributing factors to active-duty personnel deaths, such as harassment and leadership failures. "They talk about trauma, exposure to war and mental health, but they don't talk about harassment, bullying. They just don't want to say that it happens and they are at fault," Caserta said. Military personnel who need help can call the Veterans Crisis Line at 800-273-8255. Suicidal troops and veterans can call the Military Crisis Line at 800-273-8255, press 1, for assistance, or text 838255. -- Patricia Kime can be reached at Patricia.Kime@Military.com. Follow her on Twitter at @patriciakime. PLEASE NOTE! Due to the March 23, 2020 NM DOH Public Health Order, These Event Listings Are Not Accurate! All non-essential businesses are closed, public gatherings are prohibited! (One day some of these events will be rescheduled or will resume, but they are not happening now!) Runs through 05/18/2019. Named after the wounded Fisher King of Arthurian Legend, A Prairie Fisher King espouses the notion of home as both a site of idealization and a locus for wounding. Drawing from memory, a narrative is woven in the form of photographs and text of the rural Iowa countryside where my family has lived for generations. A Prairie Fisher King is an ongoing body of work reflecting on the nature of familial hardship and generational connection through the lens of place. An undertone of violence embodies the emotional distress accumulated with age as well as a looming threat posed upon the landscape. Initially conceived as a bittersweet love letter to home, A Prairie Fisher King considers the various myths we construct in order to survive in the face of inevitable change. Through the accumulation of intimately described detail a search for reconciliation becomes palpable. I assume the role of reluctant hero and return to seek the damaged king, to seal old wounds and to salve the land. __________________________________________ Chelsea Darter received her MFA at Columbia College Chicago in 2018 and her BFA from The University of Iowa in 2013. Her work has been exhibited nationally and internationally, and featured online by Light Leaked, Aint-Bad, and Fraction Magazine. Her personal work explores themes of place attachment, class, familial connection and local mythologies. She lives and works in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Though it focuses its attentions on fan fave fantasy author J.R.R. Tolkienhotter than ever in the wake of Peter Jacksons multi-billion dollar movie franchisethe Brit lit biopic Tolkien is aimed most squarely at the well-mannered BBC set. Those hoping for geeky insider info into the creation of Tolkiens most enduring literary legacy, The Lord of the Rings trilogy, are advised to quest elsewhere. Those looking for some polite costume drama and a quick run-through of turn-of-the-century British history will find satisfactory fulfillment. The film begins with poor John Ronald Reuel Tolkien (Nicholas Hoult) stumbling, feverish and shell-shocked, through the waning days of World War I. Stuck on the nightmarish Western Front, hes desperate to get in touch with one of his friends, a fellow officer whos lost somewhere out in that maze of trenches and muddy fields. But all he can seem to do is stare up at the smoke-filled sky and despair. This takes us, as you might expect, on a flashback tour of Tolkiens life story. We start out our more-or-less accurate bullet-pointed presentation in the small English village of Sarole where young Tolkien lives with his beloved mother and baby brother. His father having passed away in Africa of rheumatic fever, Tolkien and his family live in poverty. But not ignorance. Mrs. Tolkien (Laura Donnelly) has home-schooled her sons well in the classics. (Young Ronald can recite Chaucer from memory.) But when mom herself passes away (from diabetes), siblings Ronald (Harry Gilby) and Hilary (Guillermo Bedward) find themselves wards of the local church. The boys are sent to a rooming house for orphans. There, Ronald meets fellow motherless child Edith Bratt (Mimi Keene) with whom he forms a lifelong infatuation. Ronald also finds kinship with a trio of students from King Edwards School, all of whom share a love for rugby and art. As they grow into young men and move on to prestigious Oxford university, the boys form an informal Dead Poets Society-type group dedicated to painting, writing and poetry. These frivolous pursuits are frowned upon, of course, by various upper crust parents. As Ronald (parent free since 1904!) pursues his love for language in college, however, he also pursues his love for Edith (played as a young woman by Phil Collins offspring Lily Collins). Eventually, in an effort to tie its various plot threads together, Tolkien and his idealistic mates are drafted into fighting for Mother England in The War to End All Wars. While the plot for Tolkien isnt exactly episodic, it does unfold in several somewhat isolated chunks. Theres the schoolboy coming-of-age stuff. Theres the romantic segments, which play out like a cross between Shakespeare in Love and the Stephen Hawking biopic The Theory of Everything. Theres a bit of the film that turns all academic, centering on Tolkiens talent for philology and storytelling. And then theres all the World War I drama with its mustard gas and mortar fire. With so many different stories to tell, none of the individual segments have much room to come fully to life. The film wants very much to show us some of the elements that went into Tolkiens famed literary creations. But thats actually outside the scope of this films timeframe. Instead, all we get are hints. As a child Tolkien is whisked from pastoral Worcestershire (its just like Hobbiton!) to industrial Birmingham (its just like Mordor!). Later on, on the battlefields of Europe, Tolkien watches German soldiers torching embattlements with flamethrowers transform into Smaug and cavalry officers cutting down soldiers become Nazgul. Director Dome Karukoski (whose last film was the naughty biopic Tom of Finland) shoehorns as much visual flair into the film as his modest budget will allowwhich isnt a lot, really. But, hey, a dragon! Ultimately, the films symbolism and foreshadowing come across as a ham-handed and reductive (and entirely speculative) way of showing the authors inspiration. (To say nothing of the real-life Mr. Tolkiens frequent insistence that his books had no allegorical intentions and were not about modern wars.) The cast looks and feels correct. Hoult (X-Men: Days of Future Past, Warm Bodies, Mad Max: Fury Road) has the right nerdy charisma, and Collins is a fetching enough choice for love at first sight. Theirs is a perfectly likable, root for-able romance. Weirdly, however, its the academic stuff that stands out the strongest. For a movie loaded with both romance and war, the drama of changing ones college major would seem like small potatoes. And yet, its these moments of intellectual excitement that feel like Tolkiens best momentsand biggest missed opportunities. Sir Derek Jacobi shows up, by way of example, as a philology professor whose linguistic enthusiasms spark Tolkiens ambitions. Jacobis short-but-spirited performance is the best in the film and could have served as a roadmap to a more focused, less cliche-reliant portrait of the artist as a young man. No doubt, however, those behind the camera felt that some kissing and some killing were necessary to hold audience attention. Eric Williams Photography It was a packed room filled with lovers and a few haters that greeted the Albuquerque City Council at its May 6 regular meeting. A Helping Hand On a party line vote of six Democrats to three Republicans, $250,000 was approved to help support the many local organizations working with the asylum-seeking migrants coming through our city on their way to their sponsors. Councilor Pat Davis resolution will provide funding through the Mayors office to administer grants and contract with established nonprofits, specialized service providers, and faith-based organizations that provide temporary shelter, food, water, emergency transportation, toiletries and childrens services. The money will also pay for emergency overtime for city employees doing this type of coordination. None of the funds can be used for legal services. All of the adult migrants, most of whom are women and children, have gone through the legal system and have ankle monitors to track them. Sign In, Stranger The big bucks are nice but the real shining stars were the nearly 40 people who showed up to support the city taking the moral and financial action to help in this humanitarian crisis. Archbishop John Wester of the Archdiocese of Santa Fe opened the public comments with a shout out to all those who have already stepped up. We have had so many spontaneously come forward to help the migrants coming into Albuquerque, Wester said. The law permits them to seek asylum. And we need to help them because of the terrible atrocities happening in Central America. Westers plea for some financial assistance was followed by a parade of Burquenos, including faith-based leaders from just about all of our area churches and synagogues. They shined their love lights, letting the Council know they are stepping up to help and so should city government. Many of these speakers are on the front lines helping the migrants when they get off the bus and have been moved by their horror stories. There were some very eloquent speakers quoting the Bible, the Statue of Liberty, Anne Frank and Martin Luther King, among others. We have the moral obligation to welcome the stranger especially thoselegally seeking asylum, one speaker said, summing it up. Or Not As expected there were a handful of haters who said we should be taking care of our own homeless, especially veterans, and our own children living in poverty. One said something about separating church and state. Councilor Trudy Jones joined them, saying she will give some of her own money to help but she wont approve city money because it is the duty of private citizens and churches to step up. Wow. Where has she been hiding? As Councilor Cynthia Borrego politely reminded the roomand thereby Councilor Jonesthe private sector has stepped to help the nearly 2,000 asylum seekers who have already passed through the city since mid-February. She went on to say that these same groups also continue to help our own homeless and they reach out to veterans who are lost in the cracks of the federal governments seesaw politics. Who are we really? We are all dreamers, Borrego told those gathered in the City Council chambers. The Mayor In a statement Mayor Keller released after the vote, he said he was pleased with the funding approval and that this was not an either or situation; there are significant projects underway to address taking care of our own homeless, veterans and vulnerable children. We are going to continue our public safety work while also standing for the families lawfully traveling through the Duke City to join their spouses around the country and to seek a better life. The $250,000 is 1/4000th of the citys billion dollar budget and comes from a fund that can only be used for one-time expenditures. Carry On Comcast After nearly two years of negotiations, a 10-year contract with Comcast Cable to run its spiderweb cable system along city right of ways was up for approval. The more than 100-page contract included the city collecting 5 percent of the gross, the maximum percentage allowed under federal law. In addition it includes an increase of 62 cents per subscriber per month. This is up from the current 44 cents being collected. This pot of money is used to operate the local public, educational and government access channels. Channel 16 is operated by the city and channels 26, 27 and 96 are public access channels. Not all the money collected goes to the community cable channels. Most of the money is held in an account to be used for various cable, internet and broadband infrastructure maintenance in the city, school and government building. Councilor Ken Sanchez reminded folks that this was not the contract to run the public access cable channels. That contract is still under negotiation. Routine While not as exciting as helping asylum seekers, the Council dealt with a chunk of city business including acceptance of the latest report showing $544,079 in expenditures related to the Albuquerque Police Departments court ordered settlement agreement during the period from July 2018 through September 2018. They also awarded the contract for city employee health care to Presbyterian Healthcare, authorized the contract to build a new fueling station, amended city rules of procurement and appointed Waylon Chavez to the Urban Enhancement Trust Fund and Christopher Ramirez to the Transit Advisory Board. Dateline: Alaska Transportation Security Administration officers say a man was stopped in Juneau's airport for carrying a bag of moose feces. According to the Anchorage Daily News, TSA screening equipment flagged a large organic mass in a man's carry-on last month. Agents are required to investigate flags of this sort, because they could indicate the presence of explosives. However, when agents inspected the man's bag, they discovered it was filled with moose feces. TSA Spokesperson Lisa Farbstein said the passenger told officers that he collects this and likes to present it, For politicians and their bleep policies. The officers returned the man's bag of feces and allowed him to board his flight without further incident. Farbstein posted a tweet notifying travelers of the incident and explaining the agency's policy on the matter. TSA has no policy preventing people from traveling with animal poop, but check with your airline on its policies because having to leave souvenir poop behind would be crappy. Later in the day, a man wearing a costume designed to look like a Coca-Cola bottle was seen protesting Gov. Mike Dunleavys proposed budget on the steps of Alaska's state capitol building. The protester was reportedly handing out cards that were attached to bagged samples of moose dung. It is unclear if the protester was the same man that TSA agents stopped earlier in the day. Dateline: California An Instagram model recently had her buttocks authenticated by a plastic surgeon to battle accusations that it had been surgically enhanced. According to the Daily Mail, teen model Daisy Keech is an influencer on Instagram with over 875,000 followers who is known for posting sexually suggestive photos of herselfparticularly photos that feature her buttocks and legs. Keech has reportedly been arguing with critics who have suggested that her posterior was surgically enhanced with injections or implants. To silence these critics, she reportedly asked Beverly Hills plastic surgeon Ashkan Ghavami to inspect her posterior. Ghavami uploaded a video on Instagram last week in which he is seen examining the woman's buttocks. In the video, Ghavami, an assistant clinical professor at the University of California Los Angeles, asserts his credentials as a butt expert and certifies her buttocks as 100 percent real. Keech credits her certified rear to weight-lifting and regular, targeted exercise. Dateline: Kentucky An artist is selling jars of horse manure for $200. Kentucky.com reports that the website Kentucky for Kentucky is selling jars of preserved horse manure harvested from 1997 Kentucky Derby winner Silver Charm. The jars were created by artist Coleman Larkin, who reportedly collected the samples himself at Old Friends Farm in Georgetown, Ky., where Silver Charm currently lives. To create the unique keepsake, Larkin suspended the samples in a clear epoxy resin inside a 16-ounce Mason jar with all the care of a Southern mamaw putting up pickled corn for the winter, according to the seller's site. Its a very long, very ridiculous procedure, says Larkin. The most difficult step is probably the one where I have to ask the type of people that own million-dollar Thoroughbreds if I can please have some horse turds to put in jars. The artist says the jars are made to last. I personally guarantee theyll last longer than you do, he said. Even if I have to kill you myself. A limited run of the pieces are being sold on Kentucky for Kentucky. Dateline: South Dakota Researchers have finally developed a device that measures cow flatulence. According to KOTA TV, a South Dakota agriculture technology manufacturing company has invented a device that can gather valuable data about the level of methane emissions produced by cattle. Cows produce methane as a byproduct of consuming plants. Methane is a greenhouse gas that is more powerful than carbon dioxide, and climate experts say it is a significant contributor to climate change. Patrick Zimmerman, the owner and founder of C-Lock Inc, says a single cow belches about a liter of the gas every 45 seconds to one minute. Zimmerman says the flatulence-detecting device will help scientists measure various aspects of the animal's metabolism and monitor the effects of treatments meant to lower methane emissions. He said that while the cows will never stop producing the gas completely, the volume can theoretically be lowered. He believes a method must be developed to capture the gas and transform it into something less harmful. Dateline: United Kingdom Scientists in England reportedly found cocaine and ketamine in freshwater shrimp while testing rivers for chemicals. According to BBC News, researchers at King's College London and the University of Suffolk tested 15 different locations across Suffolk County to study levels of chemical exposure for wildlife. A number of banned pesticides and pharmaceuticals were discovered in freshwater shrimp samples taken from the sites. But what the researchers found most surprising was the widespread presence of illicit substances, like cocaine and ketamine,that were discovered in the samples. Professor Nic Bury, from the University of Suffolk, said, Whether the presence of cocaine in aquatic animals is an issue for Suffolk, or more widespread an occurrence in the UK and abroad, awaits further research. The study's authors wrote that potential effects on wildlife from the drugs were likely to be low. PRINT | EMAIL | PERMALINK Newscity NM Judge Accused of Embezzlement Former Torrance County Sheriff and current Magistrate Judge Heath White has been charged with embezzlement. According to KOAT, New Mexico State Police began their investigation of White after staff at the Torrance County Sheriff's Office discovered that around $150,000 worth of equipment and guns were missing earlier this year. According to investigators, White purchased items such as night vision goggles, auto parts and a number of gunsall of which went missing at the time of his departure from the Sheriff's Office in December. A month after the investigation began, White reportedly contacted the Sheriff's Office and returned some of the missing items. Police conducted a search of Whites home, vehicle and the store he owns. According to State Police Chief Tim Johnson, some of the missing items were found at the store, raising questions about whether White had sold any of them. Torrance County authorities say White will not be serving as a judge until the case has been concluded. He has been temporarily replaced. Test Scores Removed From Teacher Evals Officials with the New Mexico Public Education Department say that student test scores will no longer be included as part of annual teacher evaluations. KOB reports that Deputy PED Secretary Gwen Perea Warniment sent a memo to superintendents and charter school leaders last week announcing that student test scores would be dropped from Transition Teacher Evaluation Reports for 2018 and 2019. Instead, the reports will be based on classroom observation, planning and surveys. Teachers unions have reportedly been pressuring state leaders to remove student test scores from the evaluations for years. Last week Stephanie Ly, president of American Federation of Teachers-New Mexico, made a statement supporting PED Secretary Karen Trujillo's decision to implement a transitionary evaluation structure while officials work to develop a permanent system. Ly wrote that the decision was a major step in the right direction to restore respect and professionalism for our educators. She also said the federation was pleased with the inclusion of parent and student surveys but pressed PED to ensure that they were scientifically accurate and statistically meaningful. South Africa: New kids on the block react With just over three million votes counted at 9am today, two new parties, already featuring in the top 10, have expressed delight at their performance. New kids on the block, the GOOD party and the African Transformation Movement (ATM), were at the time of publication, seventh and tenth on the leader board, respectively. With 25.66% of counted votes in, the ANC led with 55.04%, followed by the DA (26.04%) and the EFF with 8.23%. ATM President Vuyo Zungula was confident the party would improve from its current 0.44% (13 845). Close to 18 million voted, I think the valid votes that have been counted thus far is like 2.7 million. That tells you that 15 million votes still need to be counted, he said. As the ATM, we are very confident that out of the 15 million votes that are still to be counted, we will get a huge chunk of those votes. Our party agents have been communicating with us and telling us about our performance all over the country. He said the party did not have any projections of where it expected to be at the various points of voting. We did not have any expectations because most of the voting stations are in urban areas where there is a low voter turnout but in the areas where there is a high voter turnout in rural areas, and thats where well get a huge chunk of votes, he said. Sam Shabane, GOODs Gauteng provincial coordinator, said the party was satisfied with where the party was by just after 8am when SAnews spoke to him on Thursday. We are in position seven, which is in the top 10. That pleases us because it tells us people responded very well to the message of let us join hands, let us come (together) as good South Africans to fix South Africa; to build a foundation where each and every person in this country will have justice and enjoy living in this country, he said. The results, he said, were showing that the seven month old party was growing. We can only achieve better results from where we are. For us to be in the top 10, it is amazing. We were not expecting anything but just hoping to do better than the other parties, he said. SAnews.gov.za This story has been published on: 2019-05-09. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. Oleksii Liskonih/iStock(WASHINGTON) -- The Pentagon has suspended efforts to retrieve additional remains of U.S. troops from North Korea, due to a lack of communication from Pyongyang, American officials said Wednesday. The Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA), the Pentagon's office responsible for retrieving and identifying remains of U.S. service members, said on Wednesday that North Korea has not communicated with them since President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un met for their second summit in Hanoi, Vietnam in February. "We have reached the point where we can no longer effectively plan, coordinate, and conduct field operations in [North Korea] during this fiscal year, which ends on September 30, 2019," said DPAA spokesperson Lt. Col. Kenneth Hoffman. "We are assessing possible next steps in resuming communications with [North Korea] to plan for potential joint recovery operations to be scheduled during Fiscal Year 2020." North Korea transferred 55 boxes of remains after Trump and Kim's first summit in July 2018. So far, four individuals have been identified from those remains. DPAA estimates that over 7,600 U.S. personnel still remain unaccounted for from the Korean War. The suspension of transfers marks another step back in U.S. and North Korean diplomacy. Trump touted the transfer of remains as one of the major successes to come out of his talks with Kim, along with the suspension of missile testing. But last month, North Korea conducted a ground weapons test followed by the launch of short range projectiles into the Sea of Japan just last week. Pyongyang has yet to follow through with any concrete, verifiable steps to dismantle its nuclear program, despite a vague agreement between the two nations that they would commit to denuclearization. Still, Trump continues to express optimism that he can strike a deal with Kim on denuclearization. After the regime launched projectiles on Friday, the president tweeted that Kim "fully realizes the great economic potential of North Korea, & will do nothing to interfere or end it." Copyright 2019, ABC Radio. All rights reserved. New York City in 2019 is pretty much a dystopian surveillance state that's nothing but a huge pile of waste and rubble with tons of weird synth music everywhere. Or at least, that's exactly how a little-known Italian b-movie from the 1980s imagined NYC in the year 2019. If you would love to watch a movie that is a mix of Children of Men, Escape From New York, Mad Max and Beneath the Planet of the Apesbut so much shittierthen 2019, After The Fall Of New York is a movie you need to watch tonight. The film, which was made in 1983, imagines NYC after a nuclear holocaust laid waste to America. Here's the logline for the film: "After a nuclear war, society breaks down into two groups, the evil Euraks and the rebel Federation. A mercenary named Parsifal is hired by the Federation to infiltrate New York City, which is controlled by the Euraks, to rescue the only fertile woman left on Earth." That's right, the MacGuffin of this film is a beautiful sleeping woman who is a literal prop, which maybe makes it the ultimate Hitchcock homage. That synopsis is pretty good, but you really need to read the entire opening voiceover to truly appreciate what a bad state NYC is in: Since the nuclear holocaust, 20 years have passed. the leader of the Eurak monarchy, the powerful Euro-Afro-Asian unity who pressed the fatal button, claims to have won the conflict. But planet Earth has been reduced to a garbage-strewn radioactive desert, inhabited by humans devoid of all hope for a future. Radiation could not have been worse. A few deformed creatures developed in the immediate post-war period, then nothing. For nearly 15 years now, not one human child has been born. New York City, a huge pile of waste and rubble, is under the control of a Eurak military force. With the help of mercenary hunters, the Euraks are with deadly-efficiency steadily exterminating the locals, and using the healthy ones for every conceivable kind of genetic experiment in a desperate attempt to find the key to survival, to the continuance of the human race. In case any of this seems too subtle, the bad guys here have Pablo Picasso's painting "Guernica" hanging on their wall. Despite most of the humans in this film having some sort of facial deformity, the horsies are a-ok! There are flamethrowers, people dressed like extras from The Warriors, a brief rip-off of Mad Max in the Nevada desert, a robot clown (!!), and tons of rats roaming around Manhattan. The soundtrack, which is a mix of synth music and horns, is killer. COOL HORN SOLO The Euraks, who are the bad guys, would make for a really cool Halloween costume. FOR HALLOWEEN THIS YEAR, I AM DRESSING UP AS "OBSCURITY" Fun fact: the only tunnel that survived the nuclear holocaust was the Lincoln Tunnel. BERNIE, YOU'RE SUPPOSED TO BE ON STAGE This is a real line that a female character says in this movie: "That thing back there was a cyborg, half-man half-robot. I knew one once. I didn't know what he was until I had made love with him." DID I MENTION THAT THERE IS SOMETHING WEIRD ABOUT THIS? Here is another line I loved: "Giada, if love had any meaning in this world, you'd be the one I'd love." THIS IS THE AFOREMENTIONED ROBOT CLOWN, WHO ONLY APPEARS IN ONE SCENE GOD DAMMIT Oh... did I mention... George Eastman plays "Big Ape"? GEORGE MOTHERFUCKING EASTMAN "Did you say THE George Eastman??" Yes I did, son. And he's playing a pirate-slash-racist caricature, I think. BIG APE IS MAKING ME UNCOMFORTABLE Watch the entire motherfucking movie below. Just keep in mind that while the film might seem flawless, there was still the occasional goof... THANK YOU FOR CLEARING THAT UP IMDB [h/t Reddit] While NYC lawmakers are deciding the future of CBD sold in food and beverages, new CBD-themed establishments continue to pop up around the city, confident that this boom will outlast whatever regulations are thrown in their way. The latest space to embrace the CBD craze is Buds and Beans, which opened about a month ago on Vanderbilt Ave in Prospect Heights. The small cafe is run by Greek owner Giannis Houmis, who moved to NYC from his native Greece in November 2012 with just $1,000 to help him get started. "I've been working in hospitality all my life," said the 30-year-old Houmis, who quickly learned English after arriving here and managed to work his way up the restaurant industry, eventually opening up and managing a number of coffee shops for large restaurant groups (including LDV Hospitality and 2Beans). But his dream was always to open up his own place. When Houmis saw the CBD boom taking off, he knew he wanted to be a part of it. He was already a CBD evangelist, regularly taking it himself and getting it for his mother, who uses it to manage her arthritis and sleeping problems. "I wanted to go with a pure CBD isolate that offers better results for people who really need it," he said, adding, "you can go across the street and the deli sells CBDbut it's garbage! Very, very low quality!" So he traveled to Colorado to find a high-quality, certified source who continues to provide him with all the CBD isolate he has to offer at the cafe. This isolate powder can be added to any drink on the menu for an additional $3. Each dose is just over 20mg and has no taste. He estimates that roughly 50% of his customers add CBD to their drinks. "In the beginning, people are a little skeptical, and once they try it, they tend to come back for more," he said. Eventually, many start buying the 1g vials available for $50 each. As for the drinks menu there, the lattes are excellent, but some more unique offerings include ingredients like turmeric and beet. And then there's the Freddo: it's a coffee drink in which the espresso is frothed and cooled, then poured over ice and topped with a very thick frothed skim milk. You can get the beet and turmeric drinks as a cold Freddo, as well, though I found the hot versions to be more robust and flavorfulthe Freddo is still refreshing though, and the creamy milk topper is a treat. Houmis plans to start offering a larger selection of CBD products soon, including vapes, oils, capsules, creams and other packaged drinks, but is taking his time to find sources he trusts. This attention to quality goes beyond Houmis's interest in just CBD: he notes that the hot chocolate is made from melted Swiss chocolate (not powder!) and that the Greek pastries are made in Greece and shipped frozen overnight and baked in-house. The colorful cookies are also baked in-house, and other pasties are delivered daily from Patisserie Vanessa in Harlem. "I'm standing behind my productI try to have the best of the best," he said. Other offerings from local vendors include Bears Fruit Kombucha, Recess CBD-infused sodas, Marve cold-pressed juices and coffee beans from For Five Roasters. None of the regular food options are CBD infused, mainly because Houmis wants to be able to stock them fresh daily, though he sometimes offers a limited number of CBD glazed donuts on busy weekends. And as for the CBD foods and drinks embargo currently being debated by lawmakers, Houmis says the DOH contacted him in February, and let him know that it might become illegal to add CBD to food and drinks, and that if the law does change, he'll have to stop offering his CBD shots. He is confident that his business model will survive, however, noting that even if it passes this summer, the embargo states that it is unlawful to add CBD to food or drinks but wont keep him from selling individual doses on the side for customers to mix into their drinks on their own. And Houmis believes he will still be able to continue selling packaged products that are already infused with CBD such as gummies, chocolates, isolates and oils. I dont understand why New York wants to make it so complicated he says, but even if it happens, Im going to work around the system. Buds & Beans is located at 564 Vanderbilt Ave in Brooklyn. Mayor Bill de Blasios administration is promoting the NYC Care program, unveiled Tuesday, as a new health coverage option that will help achieve the goal of guaranteed health care for alla promise worthy of a presidential candidate. In reality, though, NYC Care is more of a public awareness campaign about the citys existing public health services than a new health plan. Its an effort to make the citys 600,000 uninsured residentsabout half of whom are ineligible for health insurance because theyre undocumentedfeel welcome at the citys public hospitals and clinics, while hiring new doctors to increase capacity. Its one of several recent efforts at the city and state level to redirect patients from costly emergency room care to preventive health services and chronic disease management programs designed to save money in the long term. You will hear some critics who say we cant afford to give everyone health care, de Blasio said at a press conference about NYC Care at Lincoln Hospital in the Bronx Tuesday. But the city already does. The public hospital systems mission has always been to provide care to everyone, regardless of whether they have insurance. In fact, NYC Health + Hospitals has only recently started to become diligent about billing insurers, according to Dr. Mitchell Katz, who became CEO at the beginning of 2018. A modern billing department has become a necessity since more people became insured through the Affordable Care Act in recent years, and since Health + Hospitals has gotten more serious about digging itself out of its financial hole. Despite the somewhat misleading marketing around NYC Care, advocates for universal health care are optimistic that the new program will make the public health systems services more accessible. The program, which will launch in the Bronx in August before expanding to other boroughs, will issue enrollees their own health card and assign them a dedicated primary care doctor at an H+H facility. It will also give them a number they can call for 24/7 assistance. As part of NYC Care, the city is hiring new doctors at NYC Health + Hospitals facilities, presumably contributing to the $100 million the program will cost annually once its fully rolled out. (Gothamist reached out to the city for a full breakdown of the $100 million price tag, but has yet to hear back.) Often one of the biggest complaints we have gotten about NYC Health + Hospitals in the past is, Yes, I got an appointment but its very far out in the future and on the day I went I waited many hours to see a doctor, said Theo Oshiro, deputy director of Make the Road, a nonprofit that serves many undocumented New Yorkers. So, the investment the mayor is talking about into the Health + Hospitals system, if done right, will go a long way to improving that reality for folks. From a concrete standpoint, having an assigned primary care provider who is taking on more responsibility for care coordination can yield real benefits, added Max Hadler, director of health policy at the New York Immigration Coalition. But Hadler said its problematic for the city to represent NYC Care as health coverage. It would be up to the state to create a health insurance product that covers undocumented adults; the New York Immigration Coalition has been campaigning for years to get the state to expand its Essential Plan to do just that. (Children up to age 19 who are not eligible for Medicaid or other types of health insurance can get coverage through Child Health Plus, regardless of immigration status.) The next step of de Blasios initiative to guarantee health care for all, which he announced in January, will be to encourage people who do qualify for insurance to sign up for MetroPlus, the existing health insurance plan run by NYC Health + Hospitals. The uninsured need not wait for August or any other milestone (or press conference) to get care, however. As NYC Health + Hospitals states at the end of its FAQ on NYC Care, You can access health care now. If you need to make an appointment to see a doctor, call 1-844-NYC-4NYC. As New York stands on the precipice of a major reform in rent regulations, the Independent Budget Office has released a report examining one of the more heavily contested and confusing policies, that of preferential rent. Preferential rent is a rent charged to a rent-stabilized tenant that is lower than what is legally allowed. The reason landlords elect to use preferential rents is because some neighborhoods may not be able to support the maximum rents established by the Rent Guidelines Board. While that by itself is not controversial, housing activists have objected to a 2002 amendment that freed landlords of any obligation to use the preferential rent as a baseline for future increases. In some cases, rent-stabilized tenants who have been receiving preferential rents face a rude awakening when they renew their lease and find that the landlord has suddenly decided to raise it to the legally allowed limit. Roughly 29% of all rent-stabilized units received preferential rent in 2017, the most recently available data, according to the IBO. But the report found this share to be rising over time, from 23% in 2010. An increase in the use of preferential rents does not by itself mean that something nefarious is happening in the market, according to Elizabeth Brown, a supervising analyst for housing, environment, and infrastructure at the IBO. If renters were getting deals, that would be a positive outcome, she explained. However, she added, if landlords were using preferential rent to obscure the legally allowed rent and then drive out tenants with unexpectedly large rent hikes an argument housing activists have made then an increase in the number of preferential rent units would be alarming. A bill sponsored by Assemblyman Steven Cymbrowitz and Senator Liz Krueger is proposing to require landlords who charge preferential rents to use those amounts as the base rent for the duration of a rent-regulated tenant's stay. So have landlords been using preferential rent to uproot tenants? The report found that overall, an overwhelming proportion of rent-stabilized units 92% continue with preferential rents. On average, only 8% have had their rents jump to the legally allowed maximum. But within that small subset, there are some troubling signs. For one, the average rent increase in those cases was dramatic: 15% versus the 2.25% one-year increase set by the Rent Guidelines Board. And perhaps not surprisingly, units that no longer continue with preferential rents see a much higher tenant turnover, 29% compared to 12% of rent-stabilized units that destabilize every year. Both sides can make a case, said Sarah Stefanski, the author of the report. Benjamin Dulchin, the executive director of the Association for Neighborhood & Housing Development (ANHD), a tenant advocacy group, said he is interested in learning where the 8% of units that are having their preferential rents abolished are located, a narrow breakdown that the report did not provide. "That would tell us a lot more," he said. The report did, however, show the split by borough and found that the biggest shares of units that went from preferential to maximum legal rent were located in Brooklyn (30%) and Manhattan (28%). In gentrifying neighborhoods, tenant turnover from preferential rent would suggest it's being used as a displacement tool, with other measures like vacancy bonus, which allows landlords to raise rents by up to 20 percent when tenants move out, and the rent increases permitted when landlords perform capital repairs and individual apartment renovations. Dulchin has argued that these provisions amount to legalized eviction strategies. He pointed out that commercial real estate brokers routinely market multi-family buildings by stating the number of units that receive preferential rents so that prospective buyers can assess how quickly (and easily) they can de-stabilize rent-regulated units. Its fine to have preferential rent, he said, but it shouldnt be used to upend the security of the tenant. A spokesman for the Community Housing Improvement Program, a group representing landlords, said in a statement that the IBO report "makes plain that preferential rent is a core policy mechanism for keeping rents lower for hundreds of thousands of New Yorkers. This data shows how misguided attempts are to eliminate the program. When the 92% of preferential rents have increases of only 2% a year, that is something to celebrate, not to dispose of." The Real Estate Board of New York did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Two men are hospitalized with gunshot wounds after a dispute devolved into a shooting on a SoHo sidewalk early this morning. Update, June 10, 2019: Police have arrested a Bronx resident. More details below. Police say the shooting occurred around around 1:30 a.m. in front of 200 Varick Street in Manhattan. The nightclub S.O.B.'s, which is in ground floor of the building, had a "The Streets Is Watching Music" concert scheduled for Tuesday night. According to the NYPD, when officers responded to the scene, they found a 26-year-old man shot in the chest and abdomen. A second victim, a 29-year-old man, who was shot in the lower abdomen, was reportedly found a few blocks away. The victims were taken to Bellevue Hospital and are expected to live. PIX 11 reports that the victims are not cooperating with the police. A 26 yr old man was shot two times in the chest. A 29 year old man was shot in the hip after an argument between a large group outside of Sounds of Brazil (S.O.Bs) club on Varick St in Soho. The search for the suspect continues. The victims are expected to survive. @CBSNewYork pic.twitter.com/gH5fPkX0lm Aundrea Cline-Thomas (@AClineThomas) May 9, 2019 A suspect fled on Houston Street. The police investigation is ongoing. In 2013, a shooting inside the cluballegedly sparked when "a gang member from New Jersey insulted New York City"left four injured. Update, June 10, 2019: Swandy Sanchez, a 19-year-old from the Bronx, was arrested. He was charged with attempted murder, assault, and criminal possession of a firearm. With two thirds of the GoFundMe grifters having pleaded guilty to their role in a crowdfunding scam, I personally have been wondering whatever happened to (allegedly) complicit party number three. Turns out, Mark D'Amico was indicted on Wednesday, and faces a slate of charges including theft by deception and a whole lot of conspiracy. According to prosecutors, D'Amico actively participated in architecting a scheme to steal just over $400,000 in charitable donations allegedly earmarked for Johnny Bobbitt, Jr., a homeless veteran whom D'Amico's then-girlfriend, Katelyn McClure, said helped her out when she ran out of gas on a New Jersey highway. McClure claimed that Bobbitt had given her his last $20 for gas, prompting her and D'Amico to launch a "Paying It Forward" GoFundMe campaign in late 2017, purportedly to help get Bobbitt back on his feet. Due to its ostensibly heartwarming nature, the campaign went viral, raising $402,000 from thousands of contributors. But that's when things started to get shady. Suddenly, McClure and D'Amico seemed flush with cash, driving luxury cars and taking expensive trips, while Bobbitt remained on the street. The couple argued that they gave him a camper, but couldn't give him all the money in one lump sum because he'd just spend it all on drugs; instead, they were meting it out like an allowance. That seemed a little too convenient to investigators, who raided McClure and D'Amico's New Jersey home and confiscated a number of luxurious new purchases. A judge subsequently ordered them to hand over Bobbitt's money, which they couldn't do because they didn't have it. GoFundMe, however, pledged to get Bobbitt the money he'd been promised. That's not what ended up happening, though. Quickly, it emerged that Bobbitt may have been in on the scam, and police arrested him in Philadelphia. D'Amico and McClure turned themselves in, and GoFundMe assured contributors they'd be getting their money back. In March, McClure and Bobbitt pleaded guilty to federal charges: McClure, to conspiracy to commit wire fraud, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison; and Bobbitt, to conspiracy to commit money laundering, which carries up to a 10-year prison sentence. In April, McClure pleaded guilty to state charges of second-degree conspiracy to commit theft by deception, which could earn her four years in state prison. She will be sentenced on state and federal charges on June 3rd and June 19th, respectively. Bobbitt should avoid state prison time if he sticks with his court-ordered drug treatment program, but according to Philly.com, could be sentenced to between six and 30 months in federal prison for his admission to conspiracy. Since I heard that audio recording in which McClure screams at D'Amico that HE came up with the whole idea but SHE had to take the fall for doin' a crime that was all HIS FAULT, I have been wondering where he disappeared to in all this court drama. Well! He has not yet received federal charges, but the Burlington County Prosecutor's Office has charged him with theft by deception, financial facilitation of criminal activity, elements of computer theft, misapplication of entrusted property, plus a conspiracy charge for each of those counts. Meanwhile, as part of their plea deals, Bobbitt and McClure reportedly agreed to cooperate with prosecutors, meaning you almost certainly have not heard the last of the GoFundMe grifters. App-based drivers in 10 U.S. cities as well as London and Australia held protests (or boycotts?) as Uber prepares a nearly $100 billion initial public offering. In New York many drivers turned off their apps for two hours during the morning rush on Wednesday. "When you're a passenger, for example youre paying $20, but me being a driver I don't even get $10 from that ride, Uber driver Nabila Nusrat, 30, said Wednesday. She describes Uber as the big fish making all the money, and I'm at the bottom of the chain so I'm getting pressed," she said. Uber says about 500 of their drivers turned off the app. Lyft wouldnt comment on how many of their drivers did the same, although many drivers use both apps. There are around 120,000 people who drive for-hire vehicles in New York City. Nothing like a traffic clogging procession to get peoples attention. Uber/Lyft drivers arrive at companys offices in LIC. pic.twitter.com/WWoYTEXJ3q Just your friendly neighborhood transit reporter (@s_nessen) May 8, 2019 The strike came one week after Lyft lost a challenge to the citys minimum wage rule for app-based drivers. New York is the only city in the U.S. that offers a minimum wage to drivers of for-hire vehicles, as well a cap to limit growth. Many drivers admitted conditions were better in New York than other cities and they want to protest in solidarity with drivers around the world. Outside of Uber and Lyft offices in Long Island City, dozens of drivers organized by the group known as the Independent Drivers Guild (IDG), which receives some funding from the app-based companies, organized a rally. Many were Chinese drivers who learned about the protest on an IDG WeChat group. Uber said as part of its IPO, it would offer 1.1 million drivers an appreciation reward based on number of trips theyve taken, ranging from $100 to $10,000 dollars out of a pool of $300 million. Uber has three million drivers worldwide, and 700,000 in the U.S. In its filings, Uber revealed that the bulk of its rides take place in five cities. In a statement, Lyft said its drivers hourly earnings have increased 7 percent for the past two years. Over 75 percent drive less than 10 hours a week to supplement existing jobs. On average, Lyft drivers earn over $20 per hour, a Lyft spokesperson wrote. (Stephen Nessen / Gothamist) Uber driver and Brooklyn resident Victor Gammec, 52, was at the IDG rally and said transparency, fair treatment of drivers, and the right to unionize are his top concerns. Hes worried about drivers being deactivated unfairly without any process. He also wants Uber to add a destination filter back to it app, because, for example if hes sent to Westchester at the end of a shift, he usually has no passenger for the ride home. For me thats a wasted hour I dont get back, he said. Drivers should be treated with dignity and respect the same kind of rights that most other workers can enjoy in other fields, the best way to achieve that is organizing and becoming part of a union, Gammec said. Stephen Nessen is the transportation reporter for WNYC. You can follow him on Twitter @s_nessen. We the Commuters is a weekly newsletter about transportation from WNYC and Gothamist. Sign up below for essential commuting coverage delivered to your inbox every Thursday. Loading... WPLJ 95.5, the FM radio station that brought rock and pop hits to the New York area for nearly 50 years, will disappear after May. The station was sold to a Christian broadcasting company, Educational Media Foundation, which will debut New York's first Christian rock station, K-LOVE, at 95.5 FM on June 1st. The station was one of six across the country sold by Cumulus to EMF for $103 million. The news was confirmed by WPLJ DJ Todd Pettengill on Tuesday. WPLJ's revenues had been slipping in recent years, and some believe it coincided with Scott Shannon's departure from the station in 2014. K-LOVE says its mission is "To create compelling media that inspires and encourages you to have a meaningful relationship with Christ." 95.5 WPLJ signed on the air in 1971. May 31, 2019 will be our final broadcast. More details to follow shortly. Thank you for the years of support and for listening! pic.twitter.com/tiFbvj5hC9 95.5 PLJ (@955PLJ) May 8, 2019 Fun fact: the NY Post reports, "WPLJ signed on to the air in 1971 blasting rock music from artists including Led Zeppelin, Jimi Hendrix and The Doobie Brothers. Their call letters were derived from 'White Port and Lemon Juice,' a 1950s rhythm and blues song covered by Frank Zappa and The Mothers of Invention." WQXR's Paul Calvaconte dove further into WPLJ's history for WNYC this week, noting that back in the 1970s, "It projected a loose underground vibe... chatty hosts played anything and welcomed guests like John Lennon and Yoko Ono, New Yorkers tuned in to what was hip." Listen here: about his memories at WPLJ: In September of 1971, one of the first AOR [album-oriented rock] formats was instituted on WPLJ. The slogan of the station was Rock N Stereo. Artists would include Led Zeppelin, The Beatles, Aerosmith, Jimi Hendrix, Cream, The Doobie Brothers, Steely Dan, Elton John, Deep Purple, Billy Joel, Rod Stewart, David Bowie and The Allman Brothers, but they would also play pop songs from artists such as James Taylor, Stevie Wonder and Carly Simon. The station was different from WABC in that they played more album tracks, and the audience reacted by making WPLJ one of New Yorks most listened-to FM rock stations for most of the 1970s. When I was growing up in New Jersey in the 1980s, I listened to two radio stations: Z100 or WPLJ. There were competing morning showsScott Shannon on Z100, and Jim Kerr on WPLJ (I didn't start listening to Howard Stern on K-ROCK until I was in high school)and they were my way of knowing what was happening in the Big City. Shannon actually joined WPLJ in the 1990s, as both DJ and program director, and shifted the programming to adult contemporary music. Like this: Shannon hosted a morning show with Todd Pettengill. They did a lot of phone scams: Check concentrate feeder accuracy WITH the cost of dairy cow concentrates rising farmers have been urged to check the accuracy of their feeders to ensure they are not overfeeding, or indeed underfeeding, their livestock. New Braunfels, TX (78130) Today Mostly cloudy early, then sunshine for the afternoon. High 79F. Winds SSW at 10 to 15 mph.. Tonight A few passing clouds, otherwise generally clear. Low near 60F. Winds light and variable. Krishna Pauroti once meant white bread. Heres the story behind this Kathmandu institution. In the beginning, Krishna only made 10-12 loaves of bread a day with the help of two others. Each loaf cost 50 paisa, but white bread was new to the city and it wasnt very popular. People preferred traditional breads like roti, swari and puri, not this foreign-style bread. The son gave his statement on April 26 at the Peruvian Consulate General in Miami (U.S.) , where he traveled on April 10, the day on which a preliminary detention against him was requested in Peru. 13:13 | Los Angeles (U.S.), May. 9. The cook, owner of Central his award-winning restaurant located in Lima, Peru arrived in Los Angeles last week to take part in the Los Angeles Times' month-long food festival Food Bowl When Martinez was going through customs, officers asked him what was inside his bag, and he responded with a laugh saying "bones and flesh." According to an article in the Los Angeles Times , Martinez told customs officers that he was doing a special dinner with a friend who he really respects. Modern History Kristine Bolhuis and John Holkeboer saved a blighted Midcentury Modern home-and a neighborhood. by Grace Shackman From the May, 2019 issue The couple--she's a jeweler, he's an audio producer--are fans of the sparse, clean-lined Midcentury Modern style. When they moved from Ferndale to Ann Arbor in 2011, they were delighted to find a vintage MCM house in Thornoaks, a small subdivision off E. Huron River Dr. The only problem was the house next door. It was "in bad shape, complete with boarded-up windows, weeds and moss on the roof, and various animals coming and going at will," Holkeboer says. "We moved from a blighted area," Bolhuis adds. "We couldn't believe we'd moved into one in Ann Arbor." However, they loved the rest of the neighborhood--thirty-two homes, every one in the MCM style. Thornoaks was laid out in 1957 and 1958 by prominent local architect Jim Livingston and builder Eugene Kurtz. They established a building committee--of which they were the sole members--to make sure that designs met their criteria, including how homes were sited on their lots. Livingston designed about half the houses, including the blighted house in 1959 and Bolhuis and Holkeboer's in 1964. Livingston and his wife were the newer home's first residents. Thornoaks homes are set back from the road on wooded lots, some with views of the Huron River or South Pond. As she explored with their two young children, Bolhuis says, "I knew these houses were special." At a neighborhood picnic, the couple learned that older residents valued Thornoaks as much as they did--but were concerned about its future. The guidelines set by Livingston and Kurtz were still in place, but there was no money to enforce them. Long-term residents worried that when moved out, their houses could be torn down and replaced with larger ones in conflicting styles. When Bolhuis was elected president of the neighborhood group in 2012, she began thinking about creating a historic district but had no idea how to go about it. Help came from the parent of one of her kids' friends who worked in EMU's historic ...continued below... preservation program. One day at Buhr Pool, as they were sitting in their wet bathing suits, he suggested she talk to Melissa Milton-Pung, the staff person for the county's Historic District Commission.Milton-Pung was excited about the idea and helped them jump through the hoops, even getting them a grant to pay for the required house-by-house report. In April 2018, the Washtenaw County Board of Commissioners voted unanimously to create the first MCM historic district in Michigan.While Bolhuis was busy with the historic district, things came to a crisis at the blighted house, which had been vacant since a fire in 1986. The people who bought it after the fire mowed the lawn and paid the taxes but never repaired it or moved in.In 2017, the township threatened to tear down the house and bill the owners for the cost. At that point, the owners approached Bolhuis and Holkeboer to buy it. They paid $78,000--essentially the value of the lot.After thirty years of neglect, the only interior detail that survived was a wonderful terrazzo floor. "The terrazzo floor saved the house," says Bolhuis. The couple emptied the house, then took the walls down to the studs. They rebuilt using the original blueprints, with slight changes to bring it up to code. They put in a new sewer line, roof, double-paned windows, insulation, plumbing, electrical, mechanical, kitchen, and bathrooms. Bolhuis had fun choosing fixtures, knobs, and tile of the appropriate period, but compares the eighteen-month rehab to "being pregnant a year and a half.""It's great to be done," says Holkeboer, "but it was more work than we expected it to be."They recently got the certificate of occupancy--and put the house up for sale. [Originally published in May, 2019.] YEREVAN, MAY 9, ARMENPRESS. On May 9 the Armenian people celebrate a triple holiday - the victory of the Great Patriotic War, the Liberation of Shushi and the anniversary of the Artsakh Defense Armys establishment, reports Armenpress. A number of events are scheduled to take place in Armenia and Artsakh on May 9, which will pay homage to the fallen heroes and those who continue encouraging the new generation with bravery and valor. Artsakh celebrates the Liberation of Shushi and historical victories Like every year, this year as well a number of festive events are scheduled: high-ranking officials, citizens will march from Stepanakerts Revival Square to the Memorial. They will lay flowers and a wreath by paying tribute to the memory of heroes fallen in the Great Patriotic War and the Artsakh war. Events will also be held in Shushi, a great concert will take place in the evening, followed by fireworks. Prime Minister of Armenia Nikol Pashinyan is also in Artsakh. Armenians had their contribution in the victory of the Great Patriotic War Around 600, 000 Armenian soldiers also fought during the Great Patriotic War. 4 Marshalls (Baghramyan, Babajanyan, Khudyakov or Khamperiants and Aganov) and 1 Admiral (Isakov) of Armenian origin were commanding during those times. 70, 000 Armenian soldiers were awarded highest medals for their service, and 104 soldiers were named Hero of the USSR. Nelson Stepanyan was named Double Hero of the USSR. Thank to Wedding in the Mountains operations it was possible for Armenian people to raise the Armenian flag on Ghazanchetsots Church 27 years ago on May 9, the Armenian forces accomplished the mission Wedding in the Mountains, liberating Shushi. The liberation was a turning point in the Nagorno Karabakh War, and was followed by numerous other victories. During the night of May 8, at 2:30, after capturing military positions of Kirs and taking under control the Lachin- Shushi road, the Armenian forces entered Shushi. The Armenian flag is raised at the top of the St. Ghazanchetsots Cathedral (Cathedral of Christ the Holy Savior), marking the liberation of Shushi. It was one of the most glorious pages of the modern history of Armenia. The strange name of the operation is conditioned by that the then Defense Minister of Armenia Vazgen Sargsyan assessed the plan developed by Arkady Ter-Tadevosyan (Komandos) and Samvel Babayan as impracticable. He thought it was too early for such an operation and it was necessary to prepare better. The two commanders (Komandos and Babayan) had decided to organize Vazgen Sargsyans wedding in the mountains after liberating them. For that reason the operation was symbolically named Wedding in the Mountains. Army as our security guarantor The anniversary of the establishment of the Defense Army of Artsakh Republic is also celebrated on May 9. The Defense Army was officially established on May 5, 1992, by which the separately operating military groups merged into one state army. Edited and translated by Tigran Sirekanyan YEREVAN, MAY 9, ARMENPRESS. 363 participants of the Great Patriotic War live in Armenia as for April 1, 2019, Chairman of the Union of Veterans of the Republic of Armenia, Colonel Simon Yesayan told ARMENPRESS. He noted that 5-6 veterans are already aged above 100. Not only men, but also women had an active participation in the Great Patriotic War. 10 thousand Armenian women participated in the Great Patriotic War, 4000 of which from Armenia, the rest from the other 15 Soviet Republics and of course from Artsakh. 41 of the women veterans are alive, he said. Simon Yesayan also talked about the problems facing the veterans, particularly healthcare issues, since most of them are bedridden. 74th anniversary of the Great Patriotic War is marked on May 9, 2019. Edited and translated by Tigran Sirekanyan YEREVAN, MAY 9, ARMENPRESS. Armenia was and remains the sole guarantor of Artsakhs security, ARMENPRESS reports Foreign Minister of Armenia Zohrab Mnatsakanyan told the reporters at the Victory Park of Yerevan. The security of the 150 thousand of our compatriots living in Artsakh was and remains the key issue of Nagorno Karabakh conflict for the entire Armenian people. Armenia remains the security guarantor and we have numerous options and tools to ensure it, Mnatsakanyan said. Zohrab Mnatsakanyan highlighted the triple holiday, noting that the foreign diplomats who visited the Victory Park on May 9 have noted that the events are not just ordinary events, but a real reflection of victory. Edited and translated by Tigran Sirekanyan YEREVAN, MAY 9, ARMENPRESS. Prime Minister of Armenia Nikol Pashinyan sent a congratulatory message to Russian President Vladimir Putin. As ARMENPRESS was informed from the Office of the Prime Minister of Armenia, the message runs as follows, Honorable Vladimir Vladimirovich, Please, accept my hearty congratulations on the occasion of our shared holiday, the 74th anniversary of the victory of the Great Patriotic War. This holiday is the embodiment of the great victory, as well as the symbol of joint struggle and heroism of the former Soviet Union peoples. The feats of our fathers and grandfathers who defeated fascism will remain forever in the heroic history of our peoples, as an example of bravery and stability for our current and future generations. I am confident that our friendship that has lived through experience of war and the common values are firm basis for strategic partnership and cooperation between Armenia and Russia. Honorable Vladimir Vladimirovich, I wish you, your friends and all the Russian people on this bright festive day that good health, welfare and prosperity. Edited and translated by Tigran Sirekanyan YEREVAN, MAY 9, ARMENPRESS. Additional financing in the amount of EUR 13.4 million (US$ 15 million equivalent) to the Lifeline Road Network Improvement Project (LRNIP) in Armenia will help improve accessibility to markets and social services through the rehabilitation of an additional 61 km of the road network, as well as its climate resilience and safety management. The loan was approved today by the World Banks Board of Executive Directors, ARMENPRESS was informed from the World Bank. Despite visible improvement in the last decade, about 40 percent of the roads in Armenia remain in poor condition, and one-third of the rural population lacks access to an all-weather road. There is still a significant investment backlog for rehabilitation and maintenance in the country. Trade from rural areas is held back due to restricted connectivity to markets and poor road conditions that can result in substantial opportunity losses for some communities. Therefore, facilitating trade and connecting local production to markets remains of paramount importance for reducing rural poverty and promoting economic growth in the country. The rehabilitation of additional lifeline roads will facilitate better access to jobs, markets, and other basic social services for over 60,000 people in the provinces, said Sylvie Bossoutrot, World Bank Country Manager for Armenia. It is vital that rural infrastructure is improved and maintained to promote agricultural trade, so that farmers and small businesses are able to bring their products to market more easily and at a lower cost, thereby stimulating economic growth and local employment. The proposed activities will support the Ministry of Transport, Communication and Information Technologies (MoTCIT) in screening the road infrastructure for climate risks in areas prone to natural hazards including landslides, rockfalls, and floods. This risk assessment will be accompanied by identification of remedial actions. The additional financing will also help Armenia improve road safety and asses the real cost of road crashes to peoples lives and the economy. This will be implemented through connecting all key road safety stakeholders with a consolidated modern crash data collection and management system, as well as capacity building in road safety management. The project also aims to continue supporting the Safe Village program through small road safety civil works, traffic control measures around schools, kindergartens, and community centers, combined with awareness campaigns at communal level, added Nargis Ryskulova, Head of the World Bank project team. As of today, safe village schemes are implemented in 66 communities. We expect the number of safe schemes to reach 84 by the end of 2019. Implementation of the on-going project has progressed well. The proposed additional financing will raise the total length of roads to 450 km, 299 km of which have already been rehabilitated. Since the launch of the first Lifeline Road Improvement Project (LRIP) in 2009, there has been a noticeable improvement in local employment and journey time has declined on average by 40 percent, while 433 km of lifeline roads have been upgraded across the country. The detailed designs of the first-year program - seven road sections totaling 27 km located in Ararat, Syunik, Armavir and Gegharkunik regions - have already been prepared under the parent project. The remaining 34 km sections will be designed during the summer and implemented in five regions. Total financing for this project is EUR 16.75 million, of which EUR 3.35 million will be Government contribution. The World Bank will provide EUR 13.4 million (US$ 15 million equivalent) through an IBRD loan of variable spread, with a 14.5-year grace period and a total repayment term of 25.5 years. Since joining the World Bank in 1992 and IDA in 1993, commitments to Armenia have totaled approximately US$ 2,379,734 million. YEREVAN, 9 MAY, ARMENPRESS. The Central Bank of Armenia informs Armenpress that today, 9 May, USD exchange rate stood at 481.96 drams. EUR exchange rate stood at 539.84 drams. Russian Ruble exchange rate stood at 7.39 drams. GBP exchange rate stood at 627.95 drams. The Central Bank has set the following prices for precious metals. Gold price stood at 19852.67 drams. Silver price stood at 229.8 drams. Platinum price stood at 13496.47 drams. JOHN IROMEA | Solomon Star [extracts] I WOULD LIKE TO RAISE some important aspects of the Outcome-Based Curriculum, or Outcome Based Education (OBE), in Papua New Guinea. Let me begin, by saying, large numbers of children in developing countries receive little or no formal education. I would like to share with you some important lessons to consider, especially during this time when we have new changes and new influences that had crept into our education practices. As someone who spent most of his time working and studying in PNG, I think it is the right time to raise an issue of great concern - the OBE system in PNG. I am sure Solomon Islanders would learn a lot from this OBE lesson in the PNG education system. PNG has undergone some substantive changes since 1994 to cater for the new OBE education reform. It has been generally agreed that OBE would accommodate the real needs and aspirations of Papua New Guineans. Many Papua New Guineans would expect that OBE would bring changes in the curriculum status, identifying the knowledge, skills, attitudes and values that all students would achieve at a particular grade in a particular subject. However, what the government of PNG and its people were expecting did not eventuate. The OBE reform has now come to a deadlock. Results gathered nationwide shows that there is a big problem with the implementation process. Therefore, the government of PNG has decided to scrap OBE and retain the old system, Objective Base Education. Generally speaking, the reform, although a good idea, in practice lacked many resources to foster its implementation. From my own observation and research experience, I would like to mention that much of the policy would need more planning and feasibility groundwork before it can become a reality in school settings. In addition, the government literally failed to fully capacitate the education system in the light of this reform. Lack of qualified teaching personnel and specialist manpower meant that the students learning experiences in classroom was seriously affected. It created a lot of problems for the teachers who had direct contact with students in the classroom. The government of PNG accepted Outcome Based Education without proper preparation in terms of adequate facilities, relevant teaching and learning materials, and properly trained specialist teachers to teach the content of newly introduced subjects. In Papua New Guinea, the formal education system appears to fail more students than help them. As such, the number of students enrolled for further studies is still low comparable to other Pacific nations. Even the literacy rate for PNG is, according to recent statistics, one of the lowest in the Asia Pacific region. The rebel MPs filed the motion after parliament closed late on Tuesday, but changes O'Neill also made to parliamentary committees mean the motion might have trouble getting on the notice paper later this month. O'Neill mustered a majority of 59 votes to 50 to win a series of votes on Tuesday, delaying a parliamentary sitting until 28 May and forestalling an attempt by his opponents to bring him down. SYDNEY - Clever manoeuvring by Papua New Guinea prime minister Peter O'Neill has delayed a no-confidence motion against him until the end of May at least, but the issues creating political pressure in Australia's near neighbour are not likely to be so easily dismissed. O'Neill has consistently asserted that he has the numbers to stay prime minister, and declared on Tuesday: "The government is well and truly solid, intact and we are ready to work". The push to oust O'Neill, who has led the country since 2011, was fomented over the weekend after weeks of growing frustration. It began when finance minister James Marape resigned, followed by seven others, including attorney-general Davis Steven. Marape is now the prime ministerial candidate for those hoping to oust O'Neill. Paul Barker of PNG's Institute of National Affairs said Marape quit after saying the government was being run by an inner coterie which excluded most of the cabinet. Steven quit after criticising a lack of action on governance issues and corruption. "It's unusual to have such senior people quitting because the main game is to gain office, so they must be very annoyed, or very certain of gaining prospects after the forming of a new government, or both," Barker said. Political disputes in PNG tend not to be related to ideology or policy differences, but more about access to payments which are distributed by the government to MPs for the benefit of their communities. This means that, for an MP, being close to the government is important. Conversely, it also makes challenges to the existing leadership frequent and unpredictable. Local media outlet Loop PNG says that in the past nine PNG parliaments, six have had prime ministers who were either removed by a vote of no confidence, or who resigned because of a threat of such a vote. O'Neill and Sir Michael Somare are the only leaders in the country's post-independence history to have served full terms. Strict rules now surround no confidence votes, including a seven-day notice period. Andrew Wilkins, the publishing director of Business Advantage, PNGs leading business media outlet, said one of the key pressure points in PNG politics was over how much benefit ordinary people received from the big resource projects which are the backbone of the country's economy. "There is a sense that the full value and benefits of major projects havent trickled down to the ordinary people, and concern that money is being made and not being spent where the population can see it - on roads, schools and hospitals," Wilkins said. "This indicates to me impatience [in that situation]." Draft legislation put forward earlier this year by government members proposed to force businesses under a certain size to be locally owned. But O'Neill is expected to significantly water down that law after an outcry from foreign companies worried that they would have to sell down their holdings. A much-delayed mining act also proposes to balance the desire for foreign investment with the need to spread the benefits more broadly. The legislation is so controversial it has never been tested in Parliament. Ordinary people have been particularly frustrated that the promised benefits to landowners of a number of massive gas projects have not flowed as quickly as promised. One, built by ExxonMobil, became controversial after it boosted the country's GDP, the share prices of foreign firms, but no discernable benefit for ordinary people, including the local landowners who were promised a flow of royalties. They have so far received little. Meanwhile, government debt has continued to rise, partly due to volatile commodity prices, and partly to new loans signed with China as part of its Belt and Road project. Barker said this had pushed up debt servicing costs to almost 20% of the budget. Australia has worked closely with O'Neill to keep almost 550 refugees and asylum seekers on Manus Island, and the two countries recently agreed to a joint naval base, in part as an attempt to stave off China's growing influence. TWU and rideshare drivers protest in front of Uber's Melbourne office. (Image: supplied) Australian rideshare drivers and the Transport Workers Union joined a global protest outside Uber offices in Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane on Wednesday to demand "fairness and safety". Uber is preparing to become a public company in the US, which will raise up to US$9 billion and value the business at US$91 billion. "Drivers around the world are getting ripped off. Now the loss-making Uber says drivers can expect things to get worse as it tries to encourage investors to buy its shares," said TWU co-ordinator Tony Sheldon. "For drivers this is a disaster and means they will struggle even further." A rideshare driver survey conducted by TWU last year showed 37 per cent had received threats, 10 per cent had been physically assaulted and a disturbing 6 per cent had been sexually assaulted. This was in return for an average of $16 per hour of pay before costs like fuel and insurance were taken out. "Rideshare drivers have faced deaths threats from passengers towards them and their families, rape threats, sexual assault, being punched in the face, held at knifepoint, had their car windows broken, their cars stolen and have received racial abuse," stated the TWU. "They have been immediately deactivated from the rideshare apps when passengers leave wallets in their cars or when passengers make entirely false reports, destroying livelihoods. Almost two-thirds of drivers have had false reports by passengers." Just this week NRL player Michael Chee Kam was convicted of assaulting a rideshare driver in eastern Sydney last last year. An Uber Australia spokesperson told Yahoo Finance that the TWU survey was outdated, and referred to a Alphabeta report that showed the average Sydney driver receives $29.46 before costs and $21 per hour after costs. Story continues "Violence is not tolerated and is in clear violation of our Community Guidelines. We publish our community guidelines on our website which outline the standards we uphold and how riders can lose access to the app including for discriminatory, racist or violent behaviour," the spokesperson said. "When a rider or a driver-partner makes any allegation, Uber's 24/7 incident response team will investigate both sides and take any necessary action." The Uber Australia spokesperson also mentioned that free on-trip accident insurance is now provided to Australian drivers, as well as a counselling service. "We also recently announced new safety features, including an in-app emergency assistance button for all riders and driver-partners across Australia," said the spokesperson. "We have a team of former law enforcement professionals who are on call to work with police 24/7 to respond to urgent needs and assist in investigations." Make your money work with Yahoo Finances daily newsletter. Sign up here and stay on top of the latest money, property and tech news. Google showed off a host of features coming to Android Q later this year during its I/O developers conference. (Image: AP Photo/Ng Han Guan) Google (GOOG, GOOGL) on Tuesday unveiled the latest updates to its Android operating system at its big I/O developers conference. The event, which took place in Google's hometown of Mountain View, California, serves as a means for the company to provide developers and fans with a closer look at what it's been working on for the past year. Android is the world's most popular operating system, running on smartphones ranging from manufacturers like Samsung to Huawei and everything in between. So any changes to the OS will impact billions of users around the world. Google's next version of Android, Android Q 10.0, has been in beta for a while already, but we got a fresh look at a few new features coming to the operating system later this fall. Foldable phones The foldable smartphone market got off to an inauspicious start with the failed launch of Samsung's Galaxy Fold handset in April. But foldable phones aren't done for. Google will support foldable devices in its next version of Android with a feature called screen continuity. Google's Android Q will support foldable phones. Let's hope they have better luck than Samsung. (Image: AP Foto/Eric Risberg) I saw this in person with the Galaxy Fold, and it essentially allows you to use an app on a smartphone's folded display and then unfold the screen to use the same app on a larger panel. It's a slick function, and perfect for apps like Maps, Netflix, or the Chrome browser. Of course, you'll only be able to take advantage of this if you've got a foldable phone, so you'll have to wait to check out the feature. Live captioning Google also announced that Android Q will come with a live captioning feature that will let you add captions to videos in real-time. In a stage demonstration, Google representatives showed how a device running Android Q listened to and transcribed a user's voice into text with ease on a live video. The transcription service runs across the operating system, meaning you'll be able to use it in any app and within your web browser. Importantly, your voice data never leaves your phone for the cloud, thanks to Android Q's built-in artificial intelligence capabilities. That means your voice won't go into the cloud, but we'll have to find out if it also means Google never sees your transcriptions. Story continues Accessibility features like live captioning are incredibly important as they help ensure that users with poor or no hearing can take advantage of video calling and streaming. Smart reply Android Q is also set to get a new Smart Reply feature that integrates app options into your replies. In a stage demonstration, Google representatives showed how if you receive a text message with an address, you can open Google Maps from the smart reply notification box rather than having to copy the address, open Google Maps, and paste the address. Android Q will add suggested actions to its smart replies, making it easier to do things like share addresses. (Image: Google) I could see this being helpful if your significant other asks if you want to order in for dinner, and then have smart reply give you the option to open up your delivery app of choice. Or if a friend tells you about a new band in a text, smart reply offers up Spotify. Security and Privacy Google also said it is building on its security features in Android Q. There will now be a Privacy tab in the settings menu that will give you access to your Google Activity Controls, Location History information and Ad Settings. Activity Controls more or less lets you control whether or not Google can use information about you to sell ads. It's from here that you access all of the settings you'd want to kill if you're tired of Google knowing everything about you. Location History will let keep Google from holding onto your location data, as well as give you the option of determining when apps can access your location. For instance, you can tell an app that it can only access your location data when it's in use. Close the app, and it loses access to your location data. Focus mode Finally, Google announced that it will bring a feature called Focus mode to Android. Focus mode will let you select specific apps that you can mute when you're trying to get things done. Google's Android Q will feature a Focus Mode that turns off apps that can distract you when you need to concentrate. (Image: Google) If you get distracted by Instagram, Facebook, Twitter or YouTube, you can effectively block them so that you don't get updates from them. Turn off Focus mode, and you'll once again have access to those updates. It's a small improvement, but one that should help users from having their productivity consumed by addictive apps. More from Dan: Email Daniel Howley at dhowley@oath.com; follow him on Twitter at@DanielHowley. Follow Yahoo Finance on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, andLinkedIn.finance.yahoo.com/ Two civilians were killed and four captured Thursday in a southern Libyan town held by strongman Khalifa Haftar, in an attack claimed by the Islamic State group, sources said. Gunmen in more than 10 vehicles launched the attack on Ghodwa early in the morning, firing "indiscriminately at public buildings, including the police station", a security source told AFP. Two civilians were killed and four abducted, said the source in the town about 700 kilometres (435 miles) south of Tripoli. The assailants also set fire to the homes of security forces in the attack, which lasted about half an hour, the source added. IS claimed responsibility for the attack via its propaganda arm Amaq, saying its "fighters... attacked Haftar militia houses in the locality of Ghodwa in southern Libya". In a statement on Thursday, Libya's Tripoli-based unity government condemned "cowardly acts" in which two people were killed. Libya has been mired in chaos since the 2011 ouster of Moamer Kadhafi. Haftar backs an administration in the east that rivals the internationally recognised Government of National Accord. Ghodwa is controlled by Haftar's self-styled Libyan National Army which launched a military operation in January to "purge the south of terrorist and criminal groups". After winning the backing of tribes, the LNA seized several towns without a fight, including the region's main city Sebha, 70 kilometres north of Ghodwa. Haftar then launched a military offensive on April 4 to capture Tripoli. Jihadist groups have capitalised on Libya's instability to establish a presence in the country. IS had its main stronghold in Kadhafi's home town of Sirte, around 450 kilometres east of the capital, until it was driven from the city by pro-GNA forces in December 2016. Despite being weakened, the jihadists regrouped in the desert and still pose a threat in the North African country. The Islamic State group was ousted from its Libyan stronghold of Sirte in 2016, but has continued to carry out attacks in the North African country The governments plan of finding employment for 500,000 seems far-fetched Although the governments employment programmes seem promising, implementation will be challenging Two people have reportedly been kicked off a flight for failing to listen to the safety demonstration video. The pair, a man and a woman, were on an Air New Zealand flight departing Wellington for Auckland on Tuesday morning, Stuff.co.nz reports. A passenger, who hasnt been named, told the news site the woman looked at her book as the safety demonstration began before both of them began looking at their phones. They also described the passengers as affluent. The passengers claims a flight attendant very patiently asked the pair to watch the demo as both of them were seated in an exit row. Two passengers have reportedly been booted off an Air New Zealand flight for refusing to follow a safety demonstration video. Source: Getty Images (file pic) "The flight attendant was super kind and kept asking her, but the woman put her fingers in her ears, the passenger told Stuff. It reportedly delayed the flight and frustrated fellow passengers but the pair didnt seem to care. The passenger claims the flight was delayed 25 minutes. The plane then returned to the gate where the couple were removed. A New Zealand Police spokeswoman told Yahoo News Australia police were requested to meet a female passenger at the terminal after she failed to comply with crew instructions. The passenger will receive an infringement notice under Civil Aviation Authority rules relating to the use of a cellphone, she said. Air New Zealand has been contacted for comment. Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com. You can also follow us on Facebook, download the Yahoo News app from iTunes or Google Play and stay up to date with the latest news with Yahoos daily newsletter. Sign up here. An Algerian state television presenter has been fired after slamming the media's role in supporting the regime of ex-leader Abdelaziz Bouteflika and pushing for greater freedoms, colleagues said Thursday. Abderrezak Siah, who hosted the evening news on the A3 channel, was dismissed by the outlet's management on Saturday, Canal Algeria reporter Abdelmadjid Benkaci told AFP. Demonstrators in the north African country are pressing for sweeping reforms after Bouteflika resigned last month in the face of huge protests. At an event on April 29, Siah lambasted broadcasters for their slavish backing of the veteran's 20-year rule and called for a freer media. "Public television was not the mouthpiece for the state but the mouthpiece for corruption," he said. "Our main mission is to provide a public service, and I call on all television journalists and young people from the protest movement to peacefully support our fight." After protests erupted across Algeria in February journalists from state media denounced "pressure" from their bosses to refrain from reporting on the demonstrations. Algerians have continued to hold mass demonstrations demanding reforms, despite the departure of longtime president Abdelaziz Bouteflika in early April A nine-year-old boy has been charged with murder after he allegedly shot his mother to death with a rifle. The woman was found early on Monday morning at her home in Fawn River Township, 260km southwest of Detroit, Michigan, St. Joseph County Prosecutor John McDonough told WWMT-TV. The victim has not been identified to conceal the identify of the juvenile suspect. The boy was undergoing a psychiatric evaluation at a state-run juvenile facility, according to county Sheriff Bradley Balk. Authorities at the home following the shooting. Source: AP It isnt clear if he was charged as an adult or a juvenile. Authorities have not released the circumstances of the killing or details of why the child was charged. Another mother Alecia Pieronski told WWMT-TV that the boy threatened to stab her eight-year-old daughter to death in February last year. Ms Pieronski said she told their school principal but nothing was done. Sturgis Public Schools Superintendent Arthur Ebert released a statement to the media, but said nothing about the child or his circumstances. As a district it is our goal to provide support to our students, staff, and the community, Ebert said. We are limited in what we can share due to privacy laws and the sensitive nature of this tragedy. Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com. You can also follow us on Facebook, download the Yahoo News app from iTunes or Google Play and stay up to date with the latest news with Yahoos daily newsletter. Sign up here. Istanbul's deposed mayor Ekrem Imamoglu, who was stripped of his election win this week, told AFP he would lead a "revolution" for democracy ahead of next month's re-run of the vote. A softly-spoken opposition figure who struck a unifying tone during the campaign, Imamoglu's win shocked the ruling party which had controlled Turkey's largest city for years. "What we are doing now is a fight for democracy and mobilisation for democracy. It will of course be a revolution once we carry it to its conclusion," he told AFP at his office on the outskirts of Istanbul. Turkey's top election body annulled the results of the March 31 mayoral vote on Monday, after the ruling party of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan alleged "serious corruption" in the count. European Parliament politicians said the decision would end the credibility of democratic elections in Turkey. "The seven members (of the election body) will take their place in history like a black stain, but it is our responsibility to correct it. We keep on fighting," said Imamoglu, who represents the main opposition Republican People's Party (CHP). "I wish they had done their job. They failed to do so," he added. The loss of Turkey's economic hub was a major setback for Erdogan and his party, which has relied on the city's financial resources to maintain networks of patronage. It was the first time the opposition had taken control of Istanbul in 25 years and was particularly sensitive for Erdogan, himself a former mayor of the 15-million strong metropolis. -'Zero mistakes'- Asked how his party would avoid any irregularities when the election is re-run on June 23, Imamoglu said: "We will be very cautious. "We will fight hard. You will see hundreds of thousands get involved in the process. They will do their duty at the ballot box," he told AFP. "Thousands, tens of thousands of lawyers not only from Istanbul but from all over Turkey will help run the process with the ultimate goal of zero mistakes." There has been an outpouring of support for Imamoglu on social media, including from businesses and artists under the slogan "Everything will be fine". "This is a proof of Turkey's faith in democracy. This nation is fond of their freedom," Imamoglu said of the media campaign. On the campaign trail, the 49-year-old was often seen mixing with voters in the bazaar and cafes, and taking selfies with them. That contrasted with the giant rallies called by Erdogan, who filled the airwaves in almost daily televised speeches, even though he himself was not running. Imamoglu said he would not change his campaign style. "I will be in bazaars and on the streets," he said. Born in 1970 in the Black Sea coastal city of Trabzon in northern Turkey, Imamoglu studied business administration and worked in the family construction business before entering local politics a decade ago. He was elected district mayor of Istanbul's Beylikduzu area in 2014. - 'Time will tell'- The annulment of the election result drew wrath even from some of Erdogan's former allies in the ruling party. Ex-prime minister Ahmet Davutoglu wrote on Twitter on Tuesday: "The biggest loss for political movements is not losing elections but the loss of moral superiority and social conscience." Turkey's Western allies have also voiced concern, with Germany saying the election board's decision was "incomprehensible". Asked if he thought his campaign now had the momentum to take him all the way to the presidency, Imamoglu said "time will tell". "Our goal right now is the Istanbul mayor's office. We want to run Istanbul," he said. "We want to take back what we have already won." Imamoglu represents Turkey's main opposition Republican People's Party (CHP) The decision to annul the results of the March 31 mayoral vote has sparked protest Erdogan's party had complained after losing the Istanbul mayoral vote The Turkish President is a former Istanbul mayor Libyan commander Khalifa Haftar was in Cairo on Thursday for the second time since he launched a military offensive on his country's capital, the Egyptian presidency said. Haftar has gained the ardent support of Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi for his assault on Tripoli, where Libya's UN-recognised government sits. During their latest meeting in Cairo, Sisi backed the role of Haftar's forces "to restore the pillars of legitimacy and create an environment conducive to reaching political solutions." The Egyptian president also heralded Haftar's drive to push back against "extremist militias", according to a presidential statement. Cairo has financed Haftar's self-styled Libyan National Army, which holds swathes of the country's east and launched its Tripoli offensive on April 4. More than 440 people have been killed in the fighting and thousands wounded, according to the World Health Organization. Sisi previously held talks on April 14 with Haftar, who is also backed by the United Arab Emirates. Thursday's meeting comes as his Libyan rival Fayez al-Sarraj, head of the Tripoli-based Government of National Accord, continued a European tour to shore up support. Sarraj held meetings Thursday with the British government, which stressed there was "no military solution" to the Libya crisis and pushed for a ceasefire. The London talks followed Sarraj's visit to Rome, Berlin and Paris -- where President Emmanuel Macron reiterated his support for the Tripoli government. France hosted talks between Libyan rivals last May and has said it views Haftar as a key player in rebuilding the country, which has been in turmoil since the 2011 ouster of dictator Moamer Kadhafi. Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi (C) met with Libyan commander Khalifa Haftar (L) in Cairo on Thursday When kindergarten staff told Lyubov Sobol her five-year-old daughter needed to come in wearing a miniature military uniform ahead of Russia's World War II Victory Day, she was shocked and angry. But dressing children up in the attire for May 9, the day Russia commemorates Soviet victory over the Nazis, is far from an unusual practice in the country. The trend has grown over President Vladimir Putin's two decades in power, as officials highlight the conflict to boost patriotic sentiment. Child-sized khaki tunics, jaunty caps with a red star and even wooden replica weapons are widely on sale and many youngsters wear such outfits to Victory Day events across Russia. While popular, such outfits have also sparked controversy among parents and professionals. "As far as I know, the initiative came from above," Sobol told AFP of the kindergarten's request. "I don't agree with it," she said, criticising what she called "forcing military subject matter on children." "This militarised masquerade is coming to every corner of Russia," she said, adding that when she was at school there was no such custom. Sobol, a lawyer who works with opposition leader Alexei Navalny, persuaded the state kindergarten to cancel the plans for children to wear military gear, with the support of other parents. "Kindergartens should teach children to treat people well," she said. "Not how to hold a machine gun." In response, conservative pro-Kremlin media accused her of a lack of patriotism, but she insisted she acted to protect "the rights and interests of people living in our country." Several other Moscow schools and kindergartens this year have asked children to wear retro uniforms for celebratory concerts and photoshoots, parents told AFP. Others were instructed to bring military-themed ribbons or soldiers' caps. A spokeswoman for the Moscow education department said by phone that the choice of clothing was "most likely" an individual decision by schools. However the department did not respond to an official request for comment. - 'Prettifying war' - Several cities including Pyatigorsk in the Russian Caucasus have held special military parades this year with kindergarten-age children wearing retro uniforms. Many families taking part in Thursday's "Immortal Regiment" marches holding pictures of loved ones who fought in the war brought along children in war uniforms. But some psychologists spoke out against a practice they says glorifies war and glosses over the realities. "This is romanticising and prettifying the most terrible thing in our world -- war," wrote Saint Petersburg-based child psychologist Yelena Kuznetsova on Facebook in a widely shared post. "Children shouldn't wear military uniform," she said. "You should buy children clothes that are about life, not death." Another child psychologist Irina Obukhova however told Kommersant daily that it was "essential" for children to take part in such events and "identify with their ancestors." A poll by the liberal Echo of Moscow radio station found 81 percent of Muscovites thought it was "wrong" for children to wear military uniform while 17 percent said this was "OK." A set of child-size World War II uniform does not come cheap. At Admiral, a company based in the town of Shchelkovo outside Moscow, a complete Russian-made outfit for children aged 3 to 15 costs 3,500 rubles ($54) according to company head Yevgeny Grankin. "It's popular, more and more so in recent times," he said. "I think people are just proud of the past, of victory." Many Russian children wear WWII style uniforms to mark Victory Day Many Russian children wear WWII style uniforms to mark Victory Day Russia commemorates the victory over Nazi Germany every year on May 9 Victory Day commemorations include a wreath-laying ceremony attended by President Vladimir Putin Guangxi resumes work on Middle Bhotekoshi following warnings Guangxi Hydroelectric Construction Bureau replaced the project manager and resumed work on the Middle Bhotekoshi Hydroelectric Project following warnings by project authorities that it could lose the contract for missing the completion date. A Montenegro court on Thursday handed jail sentences to two opposition politicians and a dozen others, including Russians and Serbians, over an alleged 2016 plot to topple the government and halt its bid to join NATO. Pro-Russian opposition leaders Andrija Mandic and Milan Knezevic were given five years behind bars for being part of a criminal organisation whose aim was to "violently overthrow" the government and "prevent Montenegro from joining NATO," judge Suzana Mugosa said. The heaviest sentences, 12 and 15 years, went to two alleged Russian spies tried in absentia. Authorities first arrested suspects on the eve of October 2016 elections, the night before the group was allegedly planning to stage their takeover. At the time, the pro-Russian coalition was the main rival against then-prime minister Milo Djukanovic in October 2016 elections. Djukanovic, who has run the small Balkan state almost continuously since 1991, was later elected President in 2018. Moscow, which had opposed the tiny Balkan state's efforts to join NATO at the time, has rejected allegations of its involvement as "absurd". The other people convicted were a Montenegrin and nine Serbians, including a former police general and anti-NATO activist who received eight years in jail. Since the trial opened a year and a half ago, Montenegro's opposition has decried it as a government-backed "witch hunt" aimed at destroying their political camp, known as the Democratic Front. Speaking at his party's headquarters after the ruling, Mandic called the verdict a "complete farce" engineered by the Djukanovic family. "All those who attack us will suffer severe consequences and accountability," he added. Knezevic, 39, added that "the judge did not show a single proof against the Democratic Front." The politicians are expected to appeal the ruling. - Unanswered questions - In the years since the alleged coup attempt, Montenegro joined NATO and the government has continued its negotiations for accession to the European Union. The opposition's Democratic Front coalition remains weakened. Political analyst Sergej Sekulovic noted that prosecutors have recently shifted "in the direction of minimising Moscow's official role in this case". The ruling nevertheless "strengthens the position of the government, which from the beginning has held an identical position to that of the prosecutor," he added. The UK's foreign secretary Jeremy Hunt continued to point the finger at Moscow. "Guilty! Conviction of 2 Russian intelligence officers for failed coup attempt in Montenegro another example of Russia's outrageous attempts to undermine European democracy," he wrote in Twitter. Observers say the months-long trial still left many questions unanswered. The weapons that the plotters allegedly planned to use were never shown in court. According to the indictment, dozens of cases of automatic weapons and three cases of ammunition were thrown into a lake in a neighbouring country. Prosecutors later said a Serbian who provided the weapons ultimately destroyed them at the request of Montenegrin justice. "Without these weapons, the story of a violent overthrow of power is unconvincing," Dragan Soc, a lawyer and Montenegro's former justice minister, told AFP ahead of the ruling. One of the prosecution's key witnesses, Serbian national Aleksandar Sindjelic, also reversed his testimony about a Russian-funded plot. In March he told a Serbian television channel that there had been no "plan of violence in Podgorica", only an anti-NATO "protest". The court did not bring him back to the witness stand, saying his reversal was expressed outside any judicial framework. burs-ssm/klm The defendants include two leaders of a pro-Russian opposition coalition, Milan Knezevic (L) and Andrija Mandic (R) of the Democratic Front Authorities first arrested suspects on the eve of October 2016 elections After 10 years of political turmoil, assassinations and violent demonstrations, Asia Bibi's exit from Pakistan was met largely with silence, as the country appeared to seek a quiet close to a turbulent chapter. Even as the Christian woman's flight to safety in Canada made international headlines on Wednesday, Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan's government said nothing. It was left to a foreign ministry spokesman to confirm her departure on Thursday, with Mohammad Faisal telling journalists Bibi had left the country "at her own will" as he declined to say anything further. The silence echoed across the country's usually rambunctious media, with most newspapers glossing over the episode and primetime television shows offering it only a passing mention. It was a jarring contrast to the violent protests staged by hardliners against Bibi in recent years, including last October, when the Supreme Court overturned her death sentence for blasphemy. Islamists took to the streets at the time calling for mutiny in the armed forces and the assassination of the country's top judges. "The government clearly doesn't want there to be a reaction from violent mobs," said Omar Waraich, deputy South Asia director at Amnesty International. "They are worried that they will be accused of being part of what some hardliners call a Western conspiracy against Islam to punish those who stand up for the Prophet, and protect those accused of insulting the Prophet." Many of the protest ringleaders were rounded up in a government crackdown and remain in detention -- a possible reason why Bibi's flight to freedom after months spent in protective custody in Pakistan did not ignite further demonstrations. Bibi was first convicted and sentenced to death for committing blasphemy during an altercation with fellow labourers in 2009. Her case was taken up by liberal provincial governor Salmaan Taseer, who was later killed in broad daylight in Islamabad in 2011 by his own bodyguard, angered by Taseer's stance on blasphemy. The killing was followed the same year by the assassination of minority affairs minister Shahbaz Bhatti, a Christian, who had also fought to clear Bibi's name. The years-long debacle underscored the depth with which religious extremism has cut across wide sections of Pakistani society and the country's untouchable blasphemy laws have been effectively weaponized by Islamists. Blasphemy continues to be a massively incendiary charge in Pakistan, where even unproven allegations of insulting Islam can spark lynchings and targeted killings. Christians met the news of Bibi's departure with mixed emotions -- with many expressing happiness that she was free, while acknowledging that staying in the country would have likely meant a violent death at the hands of vigilantes. "It was problem for her to live here. It is obvious that she might be killed by the people. We think it is good that she has been sent [to Canada]," said Fayyaz Bhatti, a Pakistani Christian in Islamabad. "Now her life is saved and she can meet her children." Bibi was first convicted and sentenced to death for committing blasphemy in 2009 US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Thursday put off a visit to Greenland, citing pressing business in Washington -- just two days after he also ditched a trip to Germany to fly to Iraq amid soaring tensions with Iran. Pompeo was scheduled to visit Greenland's capital Nuuk and to make a second stop to see New York Air National Guard troops deployed to assist climate research, part of a push to show the US commitment to the Arctic. But State Department spokeswoman Morgan Ortagus said Pompeo was postponing the trip "due to a need for the secretary to be in Washington" on Thursday. "We look forward to rescheduling the secretary's visit at a time convenient for Greenland, Denmark and the United States," she said. Greenland is an autonomous territory of Denmark, whose foreign minister, Anders Samuelsen, had also been set to meet Pompeo in Nuuk. A senior diplomat in Greenland, Kenneth Hoegh, earlier told AFP that Pompeo's visit was being postponed. Greenland's government in a statement said it was informed that "urgent matters" required Pompeo in Washington. The trip comes amid a spike in friction with Iran, after the United States announced the deployment of an aircraft carrier strike group and nuclear-capable B-52 bombers to counter what it alleged were imminent Iranian threats. Iran on Wednesday said it would no longer abide by some limits under a 2015 nuclear accord, a year to the date after President Donald Trump pulled the United States out of the deal and instead slapped sweeping sanctions. On Tuesday, instead of flying to Germany, Pompeo made an unannounced detour to Iraq -- where Iran has a major influence -- and said that the country's leaders had promised to protect US interests. Pompeo's tour of Greenland was meant to have closed out a four-day visit to Europe that started in Finland, where he attended a meeting of the eight members of the Arctic Council. While sceptical about fighting climate change, Pompeo noted that new sea routes were opening in the usually frozen Arctic -- and challenged the role of China in seeking interests in the region. Pompeo spent Wednesday in London where he discussed the tensions with Iran and delivered remarks on religious freedom, one of his key priorities. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo speaks at Lancaster House in London President Vladimir Putin vowed to ensure Russia's military capabilities as the country on Thursday marked World War II Victory Day, a commemoration that has become increasingly important over his two-decade rule. The president's speech to thousands of soldiers and veterans on Red Square came at the start of an annual parade that sees hundred of pieces of military hardware roll through the streets of Moscow. "The lessons of the past war are relevant once again. We have done and will do all that is necessary to guarantee the high capabilities of our armed forces," he said. Those in the modern Russian army remember the "oath" of Soviet soldiers who fought Nazi Germany, he added: "I die but I will not surrender". The two-day public holiday to celebrate the 1945 victory comes this year amid heightened tensions with the West and fears of a new Russia-US arms race. Moscow also recently said it would build up its military presence in the Arctic, seeking to assert its influence in the strategic region. Parades and celebrations took place in towns and cities across the country, from the European exclave of Kaliningrad to the Far Eastern Sakhalin island, near Japan. However a fly-by planned for the capital was cancelled because of poor weather, news agencies reported. State television broadcast marches from around the former USSR, including from the unrecognised republic of Lugansk -- a Ukrainian breakaway region run by Russia-backed separatists. The conflict between Kiev's forces and the separatists has cost some 13,000 lives over the last five years. Almost half of Russians said they planned to attend a Victory Day event this year, according to state pollster VTsIOM. President Vladimir Putin hailed Russia's military might at the annual WWII Victory Day parade Russian intercontinental ballistic missile systems roll through Red Square during the Victory Day parade Parades and celebrations took place in towns and cities across Russia The two-day public holiday to celebrate the 1945 victory comes amid heightened tensions with the West and fears of a new Russia-US arms race An attack by a shark has killed a surfer off France's Indian Ocean island of Reunion, the latest fatality in increasingly dangerous waters, emergency services said on Thursday. The surfer, a man aged 28, lost a leg in the attack and was pronounced dead on being brought back to the port of Saint-Leu in the west of the island, emergency services told AFP. The "surfer was accompanied by three friends who tried to take him back to land but did not manage," said Olivier Tainturier, a senior local official in the nearby town of Saint-Paul. A sharp increase in shark attacks on Reunion since 2011 has been dubbed locally the "shark crisis" and prompted authorities to step up alert systems. It is the 24th shark attack recorded since 2011 on the island, which is French territory, and the 11th one to result in a fatality. As after previous attacks, operations have started to catch sharks in the waters of the incident. Before the latest attack, the local authorities had urged the "greatest vigilance" among beach users as more people flock to the coast at a season when there are high numbers of the highly aggressive bull shark. A sharp increase in shark attacks on Reunion since 2011 has prompted authorities to step up alert systems Snowtown serial killer Robert Joe Wagner is set to learn if he'll ever be released from jail with the South Australian Supreme Court to rule on his bid to have a non-parole period set on his life sentence. Wagner represented himself before the court in March as he argued that having a possible release date would assist with his mental wellbeing. But his application has been opposed by prosecutors and the relatives of his victims. Prosecutor Carmen Matteo said Wagner's crimes were "of unparalleled seriousness" and urged the court to dismiss his application. Murderer Robert Joe Wagner (second from left) is escorted by court sheriffs outside the disused bank vault in Snowtown in 2002. Source: AAP While South Australian victims' rights commissioner Bronwyn Killmier told the court Wagner's request was "a slap in the face" for families affected. Since 1999, the 47-year-old has been serving 10 life sentences over the infamous "bodies-in-the-barrels" killing spree. The ringleader in the murders, John Justin Bunting, is similarly serving life without parole. The serial killings were exposed in 1999 when police found eight dismembered bodies in acid-filled barrels in the vault of a disused bank at Snowtown, north of Adelaide. The former State bank building where police found eight dismembered bodies in acid-filled barrels in the vault. Source: AAP Two more bodies were found buried in a backyard at suburban Salisbury North while detectives later linked two further deaths to Bunting and Wagner. After a trial lasting 170 days, Bunting was found guilty of 11 murders with Wagner jailed over 10 of the deaths. Two other men, Mark Ray Haydon and James Spyridon Vlassakis, are also behind bars over the killings; Vlassakis after pleading guilty to four murders and Haydon for helping Wagner and Bunting dispose of the bodies. The court will rule on Wagner's application on Thursday. Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com. You can also follow us on Facebook, download the Yahoo News app from iTunes or Google Play and stay up to date with the latest news with Yahoos daily newsletter. Sign up here. A teen who sued for not being able to participate in school activities because he wasnt vaccinated for chickenpox has now contracted the illness. The students lawyer Christopher Wiest told The Kentucky Enquirer that 18-year-old Jerome Kunkel came down with the chickenpox last week. Mr Wiest said the teen was fine and a little itchy. After an outbreak, students who werent vaccinated were ordered to stay away from Our Lady of the Assumption Church school, in the US state of Kentucky, and activities. Jerome Kunkel has contracted the chickenpox after suing the Northern Kentucky Health Department. source: CBS Mr Kunkel sued the Northern Kentucky Health Department, claiming the vaccine is against his religious beliefs, and others joined in. A judge last month denied the request to return to activities. Mr Wiest said on Tuesday about half his clients have contracted chickenpox since filing the case. He said he told parents that a childs getting chickenpox would be the quickest way to resolve the case, since a bout of chickenpox confers immunity. The Health Department said in a news release on Wednesday that Mr Wiests statement was alarming and disappointing. The department said people who contract chickenpox can expose others to the virus before the disease becomes apparent. The teen was banned from participating in school activities because he was not vaccinated. Source: Getty While the tactic Wiest suggests may provide an individual with future immunity from chickenpox, this infected person can easily spread the virus to other, unsuspecting people, including those particularly vulnerable to this potentially life-threatening infection, the department said. Kentucky Governor Matt Bevin said in March during an interview on radio station WKCT that he deliberately exposed his children to chickenpox so they would catch the disease and become immune. The Republican governor said parents worried about chickenpox should have their children vaccinated but suggested that government shouldnt mandate the vaccination. Kentucky requires that children entering kindergarten be vaccinated for chickenpox, but parents may seek religious exemptions or provide proof that a child already had the disease. Story continues Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com. You can also follow us on Facebook, download the Yahoo News app from iTunes or Google Play and stay up to date with the latest news with Yahoos daily newsletter. Sign up here. ICYMI: Here are our top stories from Thursday, May 9 Here are some of the top stories from The Kathmandu Post (May 9, 2019). US and Chinese officials returned to the bargaining table late Thursday amid a sudden flare-up in hostilities, while President Donald Trump held out hopes of salvaging a trade deal. The Chinese delegation, including Vice Premier Liu He, was greeted by US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin. With punishing US tariffs on hundreds of billions in Chinese merchandise due to jump after midnight, Trump told reporters he had received a letter from his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping, and would likely speak to him by telephone later. "It's possible to do it," Trump said of the trade deal at the White House. "I did get last night a very beautiful letter from President Xi." But Trump warned he was also more than happy to use tariffs in resolving his differences with China. "I am different than a lot of people. I happen to think that tariffs, for our country, are very powerful." Months of increasing comity and optimism in trade talks appeared to go up in smoke this week as American officials accused China of a wholesale retreat from previously agreed commitments -- a claim Beijing strongly rejected. "They took many, many parts of that deal and they renegotiated. You can't do that," Trump said Thursday. Since early this year, the trade talks have worked to resolve Washington's grievances of industrial theft, massive state intervention in markets and a yawning trade deficit. China's Commerce Ministry warned Beijing would not "capitulate to any pressure" and threatened retaliation if US tariffs go up to 25 percent as scheduled on Friday -- punctuating the drastic deterioration after months of seemingly collegial talks. "The Chinese side has kept its promises and this has never changed," he added, without specifying what measures Beijing would take but warning that it "has already prepared for all possible situations." Since last year, the two sides have exchanged tariffs on more than $360 billion in two-way trade, gutting US agricultural exports to China and weighing on both countries' manufacturing sectors. The International Monetary Fund repeated its warning on Thursday that the trade battle between the world's top economies was a "threat" to global growth, and called for a rapid resolution. - 'Fundamental misunderstanding' - Meanwhile, the US Commerce Department reported that the trade deficit with China hit a three-year low in March, with US exports to China rising while imports, such as mobile telephones, fell. The renewed tensions roiled global stock markets this week and unnerved exporters caught off guard. But word of Xi's letter appeared to soothe Wall Street's nerves somewhat on Thursday, with the benchmark Dow Jones Industrial Average recovering some of the day's sell-off but still closing down 0.5 percent. Markets in Europe and Asia also sank again. Derek Scissors, a China expert at the American Enterprise Institute, told AFP the two sides had clashed over how much of the final trade agreement should be enshrined in publicly available document, something Beijing has long resisted. "There was a fundamental misunderstanding," he told AFP by email. "President Trump faces a political battle selling a China deal as being worthwhile. To do so, he needs a public document with clear gains for the US," Scissors said. "But what China is willing to acknowledge in public is less than it is willing to acknowledge in private." He noted that "the two sides failed to realize that they have very different tolerance for transparency." But Scott Kennedy a trade expert at the Center for Strategic and International Studies said China had misjudged the Americans' eagerness to cut a deal at all costs. "They didn't realize when they pulled their concessions off the table that the administration would have the reaction that it did," he told AFP. Kennedy warned that the "possibilities for miscalculation on both sides is pretty high." Chinese producers said the abrupt tariff hike announcement wreaked havoc on operations and would bring high costs, layoffs and further shifts of production to Southeast Asia. "If the tariffs go up to 25 percent, costs will go up. Customers so far have suspended orders. I don't know what will happen," said Emily Wang of Hainan Zhongyi Frozen Food, which exports tilapia. Washington has demanded far-reaching changes to the Chinese economy, such as subjecting state enterprises to market principles, reducing massive subsidies and ending the alleged theft of US technology. Analysts say China will be reluctant to make many of these changes, which could undermine the Communist Party's political power. While US companies complain of lost export markets, disrupted supply chains and higher costs, the US continues to see steady growth and falling unemployment. But each side believes it is better positioned than the other to survive the dispute, Kennedy said. The Chinese "don't see themselves as fragile and they see the US as having grown very quickly as a result of a tax cut that the US can't afford," he said. burs-dg/hs High-stakes trade talks between the United States and China resume in Washington Thursday evening The top 10 US imports from China which face a tariff rise from 10 to 25% on Friday, according to the US government US President Donald Trump said he received a 'beautiful letter' from Chinese leader Xi Jinping, and a trade deal remains possible Graphic showing trade profiles for the US and China The Russia probe plunged Washington into turmoil Wednesday as Donald Trump's son reportedly was ordered to testify before a Senate panel and the White House refused to release material on investigations into the president. A day after the top Republican in Congress called the Russia probe "case closed," Trump's conflict with his Democratic opponents escalated to new heights as a House panel voted to hold the nation's Attorney General Bill Barr in contempt for refusing to turn over key documents. Following a day of drama that included Trump asserting executive privilege for the first time in his presidency, the Republican-led Senate Intelligence Committee took the surprise step of issuing a subpoena to Donald Trump Jr to testify as part of its investigation into Russian election interference, US media reported. It was the first known legal summons issued to a member of the president's family to force testimony in the ongoing investigation, and comes after special counsel Robert Mueller declined to accuse Trump's 2016 campaign of criminal conspiracy to collude with the Russians. Trump Jr, 41, has testified voluntarily in private once to the committee, and was peppered with questions about a June 9, 2016 meeting at Trump Tower in New York that he and other campaign officials had with a Russian lawyer who had offered them dirt on Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton. Committee aides would not confirm the subpoena or what they want to discuss with the president's eldest son, who currently helps run the Trump Organization. Citing a person close to Trump Jr, The Wall Street Journal reported he had offered to answer questions in writing from the committee, and planned to fight the subpoena, which demands he testify in person. - 'Constitutional crisis' - The White House has been seeking to shield a large swathe of material -- including redacted portions of Mueller's report -- subpoenaed by lawmakers seeking to exert their oversight responsibility. The rare move to invoke executive privilege came as the House Judiciary Committee took its most substantive step yet against a member of the Trump administration by approving a contempt motion against Barr. "This was a very grave and momentous step we were forced to take today," committee chairman Jerry Nadler said after the party-line vote. Nadler said the contempt citation will proceed "rapidly" for a full House vote but did not offer a timeline. He accused Trump and the White House of stonewalling by preventing America's congressional representatives from conducting oversight of the executive branch. "It's an attack on the essence of our democracy," Nadler said. "We are now in a constitutional crisis." The Department of Justice swiftly shot back, branding the contempt vote "inappropriate political theatrics." Hours earlier, Trump made clear he would assert his executive privilege to keep Mueller's full report under wraps. "Neither the White House nor Attorney General Barr will comply with Chairman Nadler's unlawful and reckless demands," White House press secretary Sarah Sanders said. Assistant Attorney General Stephen Boyd stressed that Trump had moved to keep "the entirety of the subpoenaed materials" from the eyes of Congress. Nadler warned that such action "represents a clear escalation in the Trump administration's blanket defiance of Congress's constitutionally mandated duties." Democrats have struggled with their battle plan in the wake of the Mueller report. Some have called for impeachment proceedings against Trump, while others stress the need to refocus on issues affecting everyday Americans ahead of the 2020 election. Trump claimed the document exonerated him of wrongdoing. On the question of obstruction of justice, the report did not conclude Trump committed a crime, but Mueller wrote that "it also does not exonerate him." House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Trump's nemesis in Congress, has refrained from calling for his impeachment. But on Wednesday she voiced support for the contempt move, and delivered a stinging message about the White House refusal to release the unredacted report. "Is this what it looks like when you have nothing to hide?" Pelosi tweeted. - 'A disgrace' - For several hours in the tense judiciary hearing, lawmakers traded barbs about Barr's brazen protection of the president and the calculated effort by Democrats to punish him and gain access to key material. Addressing a rally of supporters in Florida on Wednesday night, Trump defended his attorney general as "great" and said that after Mueller's two-year probe found "nothing," the Democrats were not finished. "You know it was going to be, like, 'we want the Mueller report.' Now they say, 'Mueller report, no, we want to start all over again.' It is a disgrace." Barr defied a subpoena to turn over a complete copy of Mueller's report and the underlying evidence, and last week refused to testify before the House Judiciary Committee. The panel approved the 27-page contempt citation in which Nadler wrote that even the redacted report "offers disturbing evidence and analysis that President Trump engaged in obstruction of justice at the highest levels." The Republican-led Senate Intelligence Committee has taken the surprise step of issuing a subpoena to Donald Trump Jr to testify as part of its investigation into Russian election interference Congressional Democrats have launched contempt proceedings against US Attorney General William Barr, in a dramatic escalation in the showdown between President Donald Trump and Democratic lawmakers US House Judiciary Committee chairman Jerry Nadler is leading efforts to hold Attorney General Bill Barr in contempt for refusing to turn over an unredacted version of the special counsel's report The approval ratings of the past 4 US presidents from their inaugurations to day 839 in their first term More than two-thirds of New York Republican county chairs have made an endorsement in the race for state party chair, but there is no clear favorite in the contest. Members of the state Republican committee will meet this summer to elect officers, including a chair. The candidates are Ed Cox, who has chaired the state party since 2009, and Nick Langworthy, the chair of the Erie County Republican Committee. As of Thursday, Langworthy has more endorsements from county chairs. However, his projected lead in the weighted vote is small. Cox, thanks to endorsements from some of New York's biggest counties, is running even with Langworthy. Here is a look at the race for New York Republican chair, by the numbers: 37.81% to 34.31%. Langworthy leads by 3.5 percentage points over Cox in the weighted vote. The totals are based on county chair endorsements, which doesn't tell the whole story. State committee members could vote for a different candidate than their county chair prefers. That's true in Tompkins County. Mike Sigler, chair of the Tompkins GOP, endorsed Cox for another term as state party chair. But Elizabeth Cree, a member of the state GOP committee from Tompkins County, supports Langworthy in the race. 32. So far, 32 Republican county chairs have endorsed Langworthy for state GOP chair. The endorsements include GOP chairs in Cayuga (Cherl Heary) and Onondaga (Tom Dadey) counties. The Republican chairs in Oswego, Seneca and Wayne counties also support Langworthy to lead the state GOP. With 32 endorsements, Langworthy has the support of more than half of the 62 GOP county chairs in the state. 12. Cox has won the support of 12 GOP county chairs in his bid for re-election. He has the two largest counties, Nassau and Suffolk, in his column. The two counties account for more than 21 percent of the weighted vote. His other endorsements include chairs from Broome and Westchester counties, the Bronx and Manhattan. 18. The number of Republican county chairs that haven't endorsed in the race for state GOP chair. There are some larger counties in the undecided column. The chairs from Kings (Brooklyn), Monroe, Dutchess and Orange counties haven't decided whether to support Cox or Langworthy. Those four counties represent nearly 15 percent of the weighted vote. 18, part two. The number of county chairs from central and western New York that have endorsed Langworthy to lead the state Republican Party. Langworthy has received a lot of support from the counties closest to his home in Erie County, upstate's largest county. 6. The number of downstate county chairs supporting Cox. Along with the Nassau and Suffolk GOP leaders, the chairs in Putnam and Westchester counties, the Bronx and Manhattan have endorsed Cox. Langworthy's strong support in central and western New York and Cox's endorsements from the New York City area show that there's an upstate-downstate gap in this race. (Cox hails from Long Island.) Online producer Robert Harding can be reached at (315) 282-2220 or robert.harding@lee.net. Follow him on Twitter @robertharding. Love 1 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Be the first to know Get local news delivered to your inbox! Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Like other Democratic candidates in the 24th Congressional District race, Roger Misso is pledging to refuse donations from corporate political action committees. But he's also promising to go further than his fellow Democrats by not accepting funds from the fossil fuel industry. Misso, D-Syracuse, made his pledge in a campaign email Thursday. He explained his decision to "stick to my principles and not let myself become beholden to large companies and mega-donors." He also asked his supporters to donate $25, $50, $100 or "whatever you can" to the campaign. In an interview with The Citizen, Misso said any Democrat in 2020 should be following his example and refusing to accept donations from corporate PACs and the fossil fuel industry. Dana Balter and Francis Conole, the two other candidates vying for the Democratic nomination to challenge Republican U.S. Rep. John Katko, pledged to refuse corporate PAC donations. Balter, D-Syracuse, made the same pledge when she campaigned against Katko in 2018. "We can't keep doing the same old stuff. We gotta lead by example," Misso said. "If this is the change we want to see in government, then we have to be the change." The commitment to not accept corporate PAC donations is part of Misso's stance on campaign finance reform. He believes the Supreme Court's Citizens United decision, which lifted the prohibition on corporations and unions making independent expenditures in elections, needs to be overturned. There are proposals to achieve that goal. This week, U.S. Rep. Adam Schiff introduced a constitutional amendment that would overturn the 2010 ruling. Misso decided to refuse donations from the fossil fuel, in part, because of his belief that climate change is "an existential threat to our national security, to our local economy and our way of life." "To solve climate change, to get money out of politics, to win the future here in central New York means taking a new, bold approach and not falling back on the same strategies and messages that failed us in the past," he said. Misso thinks all options should be considered to develop a long-term campaign finance solution. One idea he supports is public financing of elections, which would provide matching funds to candidates who receive small-dollar donations. Democrats have criticized Katko for accepting donations from corporate PACs. In the 2018 election cycle, he accepted more than $1.3 million from all PACs and $125,290 from individual donors and PACs associated with the oil and gas industry. "This money doesn't come in just because they think John Katko is a good guy," Misso said. "This money comes in because they expect something out of him." In debate appearances and past interviews, Katko has denied any link between the campaign donations he receives and his actions in Congress. He supports legislation to overturn the Citizens United decision and cosponsored legislation that would require disclosure of who pays for digital election advertisements. Campaign finance reform will be a top issue in the 24th district race. Katko intends to seek a fourth term in Congress. There may be more Democrats who enter the race over the next several months. Earlier this year, the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee listed the 24th district race as a 2020 target. Online producer Robert Harding can be reached at (315) 282-2220 or robert.harding@lee.net. Follow him on Twitter @robertharding. Love 0 Funny 2 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 1 Be the first to know Get local news delivered to your inbox! Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. For several years following the 2008 Recession, there was an overabundance of employees looking for jobs, which gave employers the upper hand in the hiring process. Therefore, workforce development resources focused on services for job seekers. With the economy improving, the unemployment rate is lower than it has been since 1969. In April 2019, the national unemployment rate was 3.6%. The March rates were 4.1% for New York state and 4.8% for Cayuga County. With this shift to an employee-driven market, the greatest need is to connect our local employers to the various workforce development resources that exist in Cayuga County and New York state. In my conversations with Cayuga County business owners, they have expressed that the most prominent challenge is finding qualified employees. In response to this universal problem, the Cayuga Economic Development Agency has collaborated with Cayuga Works and Cayuga Community College to showcase the local, regional and state resources for workforce development at an event titled Workforce Development 101 for Employers, which will take place from 8 to 10 a.m. Tuesday, May 21, at the college's Student Lounge. This one-time event will directly connect a large number of our local businesses to these important resources. The event will begin with presentations from each of the panelists, followed by a Q-and-A with the audience. The remaining time will be spent in a roundtable format where employers may speak directly with each panelist. The panelists and topics will include: Cayuga Works: An overview of the local resources and their programs Workforce Development Board: A policy-making entity for the workforce development system in Cayuga and Cortland counties (which is currently seeking private-sector board members) ACCES-VR: Employment services for individuals with disabilities A4TD (Associates for Training and Development): Helping people 55 and older return to work Public assistance programs: Those receiving social assistance may obtain training and find employment Cayuga/Seneca Community Action Agency: Employment Pathways Program BOCES: Training programs for existing and new workers, as well as interns from the Technical Career Program Cayuga Community College: Developing adult career pathways, offering students multiple opportunities from entry-level, noncredit courses to mid-skill level certificate and degree programs Workforce Development Institute: Employer-specific information, workforce expertise and funding to facilitate projects that build workforce skills Manufacturers Association of CNY (MACNY): Apprenticeship programs for manufacturers Department of Labor: Apprenticeship programs and employer services, recruitment, HR consulting, customized recruiting, veterans programs and more Empire State Development: Overview of the new state Workforce Development Initiative Those who should attend this event are business owners, human resource staff, guidance counselors, business service providers and anyone interested in the workforce development resources available. One of CEDAs focuses is building the workforce pipeline locally. In addition to co-hosting the first Student Career Fair for high school juniors in March, CEDA is compiling a list of employers who are willing to engage with students by providing training, information, mentoring, tours, summer jobs or other opportunities. Our goal is to help students realize the career opportunities that exist right here in Cayuga County. If your business or organization is willing to engage with students, please fill out the brief survey at surveymonkey.com/r/cayugastudents. The information will be shared with educational and training partners to help connect students and employers. Workforce challenges are not unique to our community. They are state and national concerns as well. In response to this need, the state recently announced a new Workforce Development Initiative, which will invest $175 million statewide to support strategic regional efforts that meet businesses short-term workforce needs, long-term industry needs, improve regional talent pipelines, enhance the flexibility and adaptability of local workforce entities, and expand workplace learning opportunities. Focus will be on regionally significant industries in emerging fields with growing demands for jobs, including those in clean energy, life sciences, computer science, and advanced technologies. Funds will also support efforts to improve the economic security of women, young workers, and other populations that face significant barriers to career advancement. More information on this initiative will be presented at the Workforce Development 101 for Employers on May 21. Furthermore, the New York Economic Development Council conference in January highlighted the importance of collaboration between economic developers and workforce development partners. Last October, the New York Association of Training and Employment Professionals conference was themed, A New Dawn for Workforce in NY: Building Partnerships Across Economic and Workforce Development." The breakout sessions shared best practices, case studies and the economic impact of higher education. These themes consistently show that new workforce solutions and greater collaboration are necessary in todays economy. CEDA is proactively working to mitigate the effects of our historically low unemployment rates. Get in touch with us today to connect with the right resources to help your business grow in Cayuga County. Maureen Riester is the Cayuga Economic Development Agency's economic development specialist. She can be contacted at mriester@cayugaeda.org or (315) 252-3500. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 JORDAN Jordan-Elbridge Central School District Board of Education candidates stated their cases at a candidate forum and budget hearing Wednesday. Board vice president Karen Guerrette and Jodi May and William Childres spoke at the event. Three three-year spots are available out of the seven-member body. Board members Michael Jorolemon and Pat Starratt-Baum are not running again. Guerrette, who has two children in the district, spoke first, saying she feels her work with the board isn't done yet. "I think there's so much that we can offer and so much that we're doing in terms of some great long-term planning, so I just want to see that through," Guerrette said. May went next, saying she taught at the district for 34 years before retiring. "Now that I'm retired, I've got some time to give back and be a part of this again, the school community," she said. Childres, who has three children in the district, was the last candidate to speak. He said he moved to the area in 2016 and is at a time in his career practicing general medicine in Auburn where he has some time to get involved. "I'm a really big proponent of education," Childres said. "I think if you give the kids the chance to shine they can do whatever they want, so I'm hoping to be a member of the board and get our children as far as they can go." Before the candidate event, district Superintendent Jim Froio went over the district's proposed 2019-20 budget, which he said is unchanged since it was approved by the board at an April meeting. The proposed spending amount is set to be $31,825,000, a 2.57% hike from the current year, with a 1.65% tax levy increase, below the district's 4.24% tax cap from the state. After Froio gave his presentation, audience member De Villo Sloan expressed concerns about potential declining demographics and if the district has looked at those numbers. Froio said the district uses a program that allows it to calculate enrollment several years ahead. He said the district's school population is set to be largely level for at least five years out. Sloan said after the event that he believes the district has done an "admirable job" of keeping the budget at responsible levels in the face of increasing costs. On May 21, residents can vote for candidates, the budget proposition and propositions for the creation of a capital reserve fund not to exceed the cost of $3 million and a spending increase for the Jordan Bramely Library and Elbridge Free Library. Staff writer Kelly Rocheleau can be reached at (315) 282-2243 or kelly.rocheleau@lee.net. Follow him on Twitter @KellyRocheleau. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 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. Pictured above: Dani Robles and Jon Kael, who are paired together in It Happened in Ibiza (Lucas Kazan). CYBERSPACEStill going strong after two decades of showcasing beautiful men, director Lucas Kazan marks his eponymous studio's 20th anniversary with a new movie filmed on location. It Happened in Ibiza, shot on the picturesque Balearic island, offers up four lush scenes of intergenerational lust. Headlined by LK Italian exclusive Marco, the movie also features guest stars Jon Kael and Joaquin Arrenasboth on loan from BelAmiand well-known performers Hector De Silva, Dani Robles, Angel Cruz and James Castle. "For our 20th anniversary", said producer Kazan, "we wanted to remain true to the formula that built our success: exotic locations, lush videography and, of course, beautiful men." It Happened in Ibiza streets in the United States through Pulse Distribution, and in the European Union through Vimpex Media. Established in 1998, Lucas Kazan has racked up numerous honors in its 20 years of production, including GayVN Awards, Grabbys and Hard Choice Awards. And it will continue in its mission to provide fans with the sexiest, most well-hung Mediterranean men online. LOS ANGELES MILF Dava Foxx makes her return to Naughty America, and shes got the spirit in her new scene! Released on Monday, The Slutty Cheerleader of Her Past Comes Out of Dava Foxx, Davas 20th high school reunion has her reminiscing about her days as a cheerleader. Her uniform still fits, so she puts it on and starts cheering. Her sons friend (Mike Swayze) catches her in the act. He tells Dava shes the hottest of all his friends moms, which pleases her. After a flash of her nipples, her sons friend is so overcome that she wants to make sure he finishes properly. Foxx said, I loved shooting for Naughty America. B. Skow and crew are easy and fun to work with! Dava is represented by ATMLA and is available for B/G, G/G, B/B/G, group, interracial, fetish, deepthroat, and more. Follow Dava Foxx on Twitter and Instagram. The elevator pitch for Poms had to have been: Its Bring It On in an old folks home! because thats exactly what it is. The brilliant 2000 cheerleading comedy is the gift that keeps on giving (to the tune of, count em, five sequels), so it makes sense to try and re-create that magic by mapping the formula onto something like a Diane Keaton vehicle. But while Poms ekes out a few authentically moving moments, it lacks the acidic wittiness of Jessica Bendingers script, which was the essential quality that made Bring it On such a winner. Shane Atkinson makes his feature screenwriting debut on Poms, and director Zara Hayes takes a story by credit as well. Its a formulaic piece, relying heavily on the fish-out-of-water tale of Bring it On, as well as Diane Keatons erudite and frazzled star persona. Keaton stars as Martha, a single, childless woman in her 70s who moves from New York City to a Georgia senior living community. She has a dire cancer diagnosis shes decided to ignore, as well as a repressed dream of cheerleading, symbolized by the high school uniform shes held onto for all these years. The cranky, isolationist Martha meets her match in her bubbly and outgoing neighbor Sheryl (Jacki Weaver), who is so persistent in her companionship that Martha simply succumbs. Peer pressured to join a club by septuagenarian mean girl Vicki (Celia Weston the only performer to nail the necessary wackiness yet with wit), Martha convinces Sheryl and a few other women to join her in a cheerleading club. Training montages, interpersonal feuds and viral videos ensue as they chase their dream of competing in a prestigious cheer competition. The story and plotting are thin and merely serviceable at best, and it often feels like the film has barely been written. We know almost nothing about Martha aside from her prickly personality and secret illness. So its hard to follow her emotional transitions, which turn on a dime and feel unearned. Much like a cheerleading routine, the story hits every expected beat, but it rings hollow. Atkinson and Hayes do manage to achieve a few touching moments and even some inspiring displays of independence. The friendship between Martha and Sheryl becomes the emotional touchstone of the film, and especially Weaver helps carry the heart of the relationship. Theres even an undercurrent of rebellion in their cheering, bucking the prescribed behavior of what older women should do and what the prissy Vicki deems an acceptable pastime. The group refuses to be shamed, and even stands up to the controlling men in their lives. One area where Poms surprises is in its forthright and funny treatment of death. Im just here to die, Martha informs Vicki flippantly, who reminds her to aim higher than that. In a place where death is palpable and frequent, theres a certain amount of gallows humor among the inhabitants of the community. While the fear of death remains, its not something that will ever stop these gals from doing what they want. Why worry about dying when you can spend your time dancing? Although Poms is an imperfect package, one cant help but take the message to heart. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Kutiyakabar residents at riverbank erosion risk A delay in the construction of an embankment at Kutiyakabar is giving sleepless nights to the residents of Mahakali Municipality-10 in Kanchanpur. The 10th Annual Flagstaff Train Day will be held on Saturday, May 11 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Flagstaff Visitor Center in the Historic Train Station, 1 East Route 66. With an estimated 100 trains passing through Flagstaff daily, Train Day will celebrate the history of the railroad with live music, crafts, model train displays, raffles and a special kids depot complete with Kiddie Caboose rides. At 10 a.m., join Mayor Coral Evans as she cuts the official Train Day cake. At 10:30 a.m., view an 1889 train robbery reenactment. From 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. there will be free Kiddie Caboose rides, and All of the Above String Band will perform from 12 to 1 p.m. Make sure to wear your best 19th century period costume to receive a free gift! A River Reborn: The Restoration of Fossil Creek documentary presentation Executive Producer of the film and Professor at NAU, Stefan Sommer, will host a movie presentation and conduct a question and answer session on Saturday, May 11 at 2 p.m. at the First Congregational Church on Flagstaff, 740 North Turquoise Drive. Two years in the making, the public television production tells the remarkable story of the decommissioning of Arizonas oldest hydroelectric facility and the restoration of Fossil Creek, a critical watershed in central Arizona. The restoration of Fossil Creek is emblematic of a far-reaching change in the public attitude toward rivers and dams. Today, people in the Southwest and throughout the country are reassessing the use of precious water resources. They are seeking to balance the fulfillment of human needs with protection of the natural systems that support human life. This includes safeguarding rare, threatened, and endangered species of plants and animals. Fossil Creek is a focal point for this reassessment, and it reveals both the challenges and opportunities associated with riparian restoration. "River of Stars" show celebrates nighttime Flagstaff Arts Council and Human Nature Dance Theater are pleased to present River of Stars Show in concert at Coconino Center for the Arts on Friday, May 10. Doors open at 7 p.m., the show beings at 7:30 p.m. and ends at 10:30 p.m. Tickets are $15-$18. This performance is part of the 2019 Celebration of the Night. Flagstaff continues to set the standard for effective night sky protection and started making dark skies a priority in 1958. Human Nature Dance Theater is a collaborative dance performance group that creates original works of art through an interdisciplinary lens. Nature our relationship with the natural world is explored through this performance. In this specially commissioned performance, dancers Jayne Lee and Paul Moore begin with us in deep space: Nothingness. All that has ever been and will ever be, exist at the same moment. Alexandra Wittenberg can be reached at 928-913-8624 and awittenberg@azdailysun.com. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 When Emile Eich decided to move from Phoenix to Flagstaff to attend Northern Arizona University, she was aiming for not just a degree, but also for the culture she had never known. Eich is half Vietnamese, half Navajo and said she decided to attend NAU to be closer to her mothers family in Wide Ruins both in location and, eventually, understanding. At the time I graduated from high school, I didnt know much about my Native American background and culture. So I thought NAU would be the perfect place to grow and learn more about myself," she said. "These last four years have really been about me trying to find my place and find my identity." Eich graduates from NAU this week with a bachelors degree in psychology and a minor in law and society. She was awarded a Presidents Prize this year and has plans to work in tribal law someday. Eich said she really started to immerse herself in Navajo culture after finding a job at NAUs Native American Cultural Center, where she was able to connect with other students and faculty with similar Navajo backgrounds. Its been a completely immersive experience. In the beginning, it was more about trying to learn the social nuances, our humor and community thinking. Then I started learning the history and language, she said. I have definitely gained a deeper understanding of everything that happened in the past and how it affects us and myself today. Until she was 17 years old, Eich said she knew only the cultures of her Vietnamese father and the Caucasian family who adopted her Navajo mother when she was young. Despite a lifetime of separation, though, she had no trouble fitting in when she finally met her mothers biological family in Wide Ruins. It was super crazy to actually meet that side of my family and see people who looked like me. I could see the family resemblance, she said. Family connection restored, Eich plunged even deeper into her cultural exploration at NAU when she signed up for the annual Miss Indigenous NAU pageant her sophomore year and won. The competition required participants to wear traditional Navajo dress and accessories while reciting their traditional introductions, revealing who they are and their familys origin, performing a traditional talent and giving a speech. Eichs maternal grandmother taught her how to dye wool naturally for her traditional talent. Though Eich worried that she wasnt Navajo enough to win the title, her platform, which focused on providing support for NAU students with mixed racial backgrounds, resonated with other students. I have a very different perspective from other Natives. I used to think down on myself about it, but now I see myself as a bridge between two cultures instead of as a part of neither, she said. She described how she must sometimes bend the rules to honor both her cultures when they clash. Recently, she discovered that eating shark fin soup, a Vietnamese tradition, violated her Navajo half, where eating seafood is prohibited. Instead of being overwhelmed by the cultural contradictions she faces, though, Eich said she appreciates the blend of traditions that are all her own. She has been eager to share this newfound cultural appreciation near and far, most notably with her own mother. In a way, my mom lost a lot of [our culture], too. She was not able to learn about these traditions when she was young. Unlike some other students, I couldnt ask her for help during the pageant because she was removed from these traditions as well," Eich said. "She and I have actually been learning together and shes been piecing together things she remembers from her childhood. As Miss Indigenous NAU, Eich spent a year traveling across the state, bringing her mother with her, to host events and meet Native peoples. She said one of the most memorable events was when she attended a sheep butchering competition. Since then, she has also taken the opportunity to share her Navajo cultures with NAU students of different backgrounds. In addition to her role at the cultural center, Eich works for Outdoor Adventures of Campus Recreation, where she said she is able to connect her love of nature with her findings about her Navajo heritage. Its about understanding the land isnt a resource. It isnt an object or a thing. Its living and its a part of us. We give to it and it gives back to us, she said. After four years of self-discovery and piecing together her ancestry, Eich said she now has a greater appreciation for her time at university. Even though youre going to college and getting your degree, in a way, youre doing this for a lot of people. I considered that a real motivation: taking all the resilience of my ancestors with me in order to obtain a higher degree and be able to go back to my community and support them, Eich said. Kaitlin Olson can be reached at the office at kolson@azdailysun.com or by phone at (928) 556-2253. Love 8 Funny 0 Wow 2 Sad 0 Angry 0 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. The Museum of Northern Arizona has named a new executive director, according to Board Chair Bob Gunnarson. Mary Kershaw of the New Mexico Museum of Art in Santa Fe was named the new director on Wednesday. Kershaw has been the director at the museum in Santa Fe for nine years and will formally begin working Flagstaff on June 3. The Museum of Northern Arizona conducted a four-month, nationwide search for someone to fill the position. The search was led by professional executive recruiters, who reached out to over 300 candidates. The pool of candidates was whittled down through several rounds before Kershaw was chosen. Gunnarson said he showed Kershaw around the northern Arizona facility, and found her charismatic and engaging. He said her experience and exposure to tribal communities of the Southwest made her a suitable to her work at the museum. "Mary has an amazing technical breadth of expertise, the ability to quickly understand complex issues and communicate about them in sound and meaningful ways," Gunnarson said. Kershaw has worked at museums for three decades, for institutions including the Museum of London Archaeology Service, Harrogate Borough Council, Head of Museums and Arts for the Harrogate Borough and York Museums Trust. She has experience with collections including archaeology, fine arts, social history and textiles. The New Mexico Museum of Art celebrated its 100-year anniversary with a party for over 7,600 visitors in a single day, a year-long program and a new contemporary art venue. Kershaw also partnered with the museum's foundation to launch a $12.5 million capital campaign for a new venue, which is on pace to meet its goal. The public can meet Kershaw at an event at the museum on June 6 from 5 to 8 p.m. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 The Coconino County Sheriff's Office responded to seven calls for help in three days, four of which came within a 6-hour period on Saturday. The other two operations occurred once on Sunday and twice on Monday. The first call came from Sedona on May 4 at 12:48 p.m. when a 56-year-old woman who fell in a climbing accident on Steamboat Rock. Rescuers and Sedona Fire medics made it to the woman and determined she could be moved by helicopter. The Arizona Department of Public Safety's Air Rescue moved the woman from an unknown city to a ground ambulance for a back injury. At 1:30 p.m. the same day, a 49-year-old woman called in to report she was lost and stuck on the backside of the San Francisco Peaks at an elevation of 11,400 feet. A team of five search and rescue volunteers hiked up the Abineau Trail through waist-deep snow, taking less than three hours to find her. The woman said she had gone hiking alone and had been unable to identify Waterline Road due to the snow and continued to climb off trail until realizing her mistake. At 3:23 p.m. a 12-year-old boy from Glendale called to report he was lost in the Forest Lakes area. The boy had been camping with family at Woods Canyon Lake and became frightened by deer after walking away from his camp. The boy was located within an hour by the sheriff's office resident deputy, Forest Lakes Fire Department and a U.S. Forest Service Law Enforcement officer. At 6:02 p.m. a 35-year-old man from Scottsdale suffered an injury in Chevlon Canyon and a panic attack while on a hike, and was unable to get out of the canyon. A sheriff's office resident deputy, Forest Lakes Fire Department and U.S. Forest Service Law Enforcement officer helped the man with his sprained ankle walk out of the canyon. On Sunday May 5, a 24-year-old woman from Tempe had fallen in Sycamore Canyon near Williams. Lifeline Ambulance had responded to the original call and found the victim over a cliff requiring technical response. The short-haul technician was able to secure the victim and both the technician and victim were air lifted by the DPS Air Rescue helicopter based out of Kingman. The victim was transported to a hospital. Early Monday the Sheriff's Office deputies began a search for Timothy Coen, 29, from Minnesota with search and rescue officials. The sheriff's office used its plane to search the area west of Valle on Monday and found his car in a remote area west of State Route 64. A DPS helicopter was in operation until Monday night without contacting the victim. Coen was eventually found by a local resident in a remote uninhabited area and had given him a ride into Williams. On Monday at 4:10 p.m., the sheriff's office received a call for a person in the water, who was possibly drowning at Willow Springs Lake. The resident deputy responded to find that Danny Boyd, 68, of Pine, Arizona had fallen into the water while fishing from his boat. The deputy and other fisherman on the lake tried to find Boyd in the water but were unable to locate him. The Gila County Sheriff's Office dive team was able to locate Boyd, who had died after drowning in 18 feet of water. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 1 Sad 3 Angry 1 Mount Everest is covered in trash. Decades of climbing on the world's highest mountain have turned it into a very tall garbage dump, strewn with rubbish, human waste and even bodies. But dedicated and impressively fit volunteers are tackling the problem by carrying out one of the world's most ambitious cleanups, and it's seeing immediate results. Three metric tons (6,613 pounds) of garbage have been collected from the mountain in just the first two weeks of the scheme, according to AFP. That's about the weight of two SUVs, or a large male hippo. The task is being carried out by a 14-member team, which has been given the task of recovering 10 metric tons within 45 days, the agency reported. Waste recovered on the Everest Cleaning Campaign includes empty cans, bottles, plastic and discarded climbing gear. An army helicopter has assisted in removing the garbage, and the team is set to ascend to higher camps to collect more. Four bodies have also been located on the 29,029-foot mountain, officials said. "Our team has now reached the Everest Base Camp for the cleaning campaign. All the necessary things including food, water and shelter have already been arranged there," Dandu Raj Ghimire, director general of Nepal's Tourism Department, told reporters, according to the Himalayan Times. The Nepalese government and local communities have long been wrestling with the problem of waste on the mountain as climbers from across the world travel to the country every year to attempt to ascend its summit. Since 2011, regular efforts have been made to recover several tons of trash from the mountain, and waste management systems have been introduced. According to the Everest Summiteers Association, the enormous increase in visitors in recent decades has had a severe impact on the mountain's sensitive environment. The government also introduced a deposit for climbers in 2014, which is returned if they come back to the mountain's base with eight kilograms of trash. In February, China banned non-climbers from its side of the mountain in an effort to reduce waste. But those in charge of the cleanup have another problem to deal with: climate change, which is melting snow on the mountain quicker and exposing an increasing number of dead bodies. "Due to the impact of climate change and global warming, snow and glaciers are fast melting and dead bodies are increasingly being exposed and discovered by climbers," Ang Tshering Sherpa, former president of Nepal Mountaineering Association, told CNN in March. More than 200 mountaineers have died on the peak since 1922, when the first climbers' deaths on Everest were recorded. The majority of bodies are believed to have remained buried under glaciers or snow. The-CNN-Wire & 2019 Cable News Network, Inc., a Time Warner Company. All rights reserved. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 1 Sad 0 Angry 0 In Egypt, the spiritual and the celebratory of Ramadan go hand in hand. Ramadan Gana is the headline of an Egyptian song, about 70 years old. It celebrates the arrival of Ramadan, and it is still played many a time a day during the month of Ramadan in Egypt and most probably around many Arabic-speaking countries. Ramadan is here and its arrival brings joy. It hasnt been around for sometime, so sing along and Welcome Ramadan. Ramadan started already, and for the very few of you who dont know, it is a grueling from-sunrise-to-sunset fast: no drinking, no eating, no sex, and no insolence. It revolves around asking for repentance, seeking forgiveness, and doing a whole lot of good. It is not an easy feat to fast in this heatno water and no nourishmentno pills, no shots, no eye drops, and no tea or coffee. And in all fairness, summer is the worst time of the year to fast, when the heat is at its worst. You would think that Muslims in Egypt would dread the holy month, fear its restrictions, and shiver in anticipation of a draining and debilitating fast. And yet, it is actually quite amazing how Egyptians, Muslims and Christians, await the months arrival, sing in its glory, and love its ambience. The atmosphere is convivial and merry with Ramadan lanterns hanging everywhere, and Happy Ramadan photos adorning Facebook, Twitter, and social media in general. This juxtaposition between Ramadans binding restrictions and the delight in its arrival is not easily comprehensible, but the giving and the goodness associated with Ramadan transcend limitations and turn it into a phenomenal month. Also in Egypt, the month of Ramadan goes beyond what any other Muslim country can offer. In its own way, it resembles Xmas festivities in the West, where parties take place in the middle of the week, baking is part and parcel of the festivities, and chocolate, gift wrapping and gift giving dominate the month of December. And more than anything it is a time to remember those in need. In a different environment and milieu, Ramadan is as festive, as lively, and as giving. After breaking the fast, Egyptians enjoy every moment in the window of time allowed. It is an ongoing month-long celebration where Egyptians eat to their hearts continent, meet friends at 11 and 12 p.m., stay up late until the wee hours of the morning, and most probably not produce much. It may not be what Ramadan is about, but it definitely keeps Egyptians going and loving every moment of it. Many Egyptians stay up until they sit down to the hearty early morning meal. They go to bed at sunrisea little sleep, and then off to work they go. Although, Ramadan enforces a leniency in the workplace, during the daytime hours, those who fast are often lethargic and unable to function, arriving at work later than usual and going home earlier than usual. In Egypt, no one breaks his or her fast alone. Its the one time of the year when the whole family sits at a meal together. Lavish dishes that someone slaved over for hours on end are consumed by friends and relatives in one sitting, but the party is just beginning; three or four rounds of teas and desserts make up for the lost consumption and caffeine-free hours. Indeed, much of the best and that which matters the most are saved till Ramadan: the best television series, the most generous donations, and the most elaborate get-togethers. It is also a time of year when Egyptian Muslims are on their best behaviour: they complete reading the Koran, they pray diligently, and they help those in need and commiserate with the underprivileged. Some, because they cant fast for medical reasons, give to charity instead. Others give generously because it is the time of year when, according to Islam, God listens to their prayers and acts upon them. And many more apply Islamic guidelines and donate zakat, a portion of their income similar to a Christian tithe. And the giving transcends wealth and class as everyone sits together to break the fast. Streets and squares around the country are filled with the tables of the merciful, free breakfasts. It manifests the social solidarity that Ramadan is known for the wealthy providing for those in need. Ramadan in Egypt has an exceptional atmosphere about it, which is why many Arab and Muslim tourists visit Egypt during the holy month. The spirit of Ramadan is exemplified at the Al-Hussein Mosque. The square is packed until sunrise when the fasting begins; visitors roam around buying knick-knacks, pray at the mosque, drink tea and coffee at neighbouring cafes along the square, and have their early meal. Growing up in the late 50s in Heliopolis, Cairo, I awaited the cannon firing with anticipationit announced the end of the fast. Despite my fasting for only half the day, I treasured the lavish meal and the sitting down to it together, something we didnt do often. Then we listened to the radio as it spat out one glorious soap opera after another. I cherished my Ramadan lantern and showed it off to the dozens of unexpected visitors who came and went throughout the night. Ramadan is an exceptional month everywhere but more so in Egypt. It does not emulate the grudge and the hatred we often see. It exudes joy, warmth and love. Happy Ramadan to all. McVities is partnering with charity Mind to launch a campaign aimed at promoting positive mental health by encouraging people across the UK to get talking. The Lets Talk partnership kicks off this month and will see the biscuit brand support Mind with the opening of eight Time to Change hubs, and training hundreds of new Mind champions in the UK. Its also supported by in-store activity across the UKs leading retailers and 7,000 c-stores, which will offer shoppers the chance to gift almost five million complimentary packs of biscuits to loved ones. POS will also be displayed to promote the message and remind shoppers why its good to talk. This activity will be rolled out in the likes of Tesco, Waitrose, Co-op, Asda and Sainsburys in June. Our partnership with Mind is the biggest initiative in our business right now and we want it to have as big an impact as possible, said Nick Bunker, managing director at McVities owner Pladis UK&I. So, its fantastic to have the support of some of the UKs biggest retailers to promote the simple, yet impactful message around the importance of talking for our mental wellbeing and what better way to do that than over a biscuit and cuppa. Pladis is also working to improve the mental health of its employees via an internal wellbeing programme. In 2017, the company launched an internal mental health and wellbeing initiative named Positive Minds, to create an environment for its 4,600-strong workforce in the UK where colleagues feel supported and understood. The programme is supported through mental health awareness training for all line managers, more than 100 mental health & wellbeing ambassadors across all sites, a 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme and Occupational Health support. Businesses in the retail and foodservice sector have been urged by the government to take ground-breaking action to reduce the mountain of food waste produced in the UK. The call comes from the governments food surplus and waste champion Ben Elliot ahead of a symposium called Step up to the plate, which he will host alongside environment secretary Michael Gove. Attendees at the event, which takes place at the London V&A Museum on Monday 13 May, will be expected to sign up to a number of commitments around measuring and reducing food waste, as well as inspiring others to do the same. The call extends as far as chefs and social media influencers. The pledge asks attendees to reduce food waste by: Setting an ambitious target to halve food waste by 2030 in line with UN Sustainable Development Goal 12.3. Adopting the WRAP and IGD Food Waste Reduction Roadmap to have half of all 250 of the of the UKs largest food businesses measuring, reporting and acting on food waste by 2019. Embracing a Food Conversation week of action in November 2019 to highlight the changes we can all make. Using their voice and profile to empower and encourage citizens, including the younger generation. Changing their habits as an individual to be Food Value Champion at work and at home, buying only what they need and eating what they buy. Together, we must end the moral, economic, and environmental scandal of food waste. The UK is showing real leadership in this area, but I urge businesses to join me in signing the pledge so we can bring about real change, said Gove. Every year, around 100,000 tonnes of readily available and perfectly edible food goes uneaten. Its time to join together and Step up to the Plate to stop good food going to waste. Elliot added that he hoped the symposium and pledge would spark action, not just conversation. The move has been welcomed by the UK Former Foodstuffs Processors Association (UKFFPA). More and more people have been acknowledging the need to reduce food waste. We welcomed Ben Elliots appointment and see this latest initiative as another important step towards greater food waste reduction, said UKFFPA chairman Paul Featherstone. The work of UKFFPA taking food that cannot be consumed by humans and putting it back into the food supply chain as animal feed is a critical part of the circular economy and makes a significant contribution to food waste reduction. In addition, the government today (8 May) announced it had awarded 4m to four redistribution organisations across England to help overcome the barriers in getting food currently going to waste onto peoples plates. The successful bids came from Fareshare, Company Shop Group, The Felix Project and Food Works Sheffield. As part of the exercise, the organisations had to put forward proposals on how they would increase redistribution of food. Solutions included developing new supply routes from growers and local distributors, funding new lines and additional staff, as well as increasing capacity for repackaging and labelling. A further round of funding will focus on improving infrastructure for companies to redistribute even more of the estimated 100,000 tonnes of food that is edible and readily available, but goes uneaten. Instead, this food is currently sent away for generating energy, anaerobic digestion or animal feed. Southern Oregon Coast: Reedsport Old Town Gets Renovation Published 05/09/2019 at 4:53 PM PDT By Oregon Coast Beach Connection staff (Reedsport, Oregon) The southern Oregon coast town of Reedsport will be undergoing a makeover soon, all thanks to a grant from the Oregon Main Street (OMS) Revitalization Grant from the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO). The City of Reedsport Main Street Program (RMSP) was awarded the money. $165,000 will be used to renovate four roofs and two awnings on five buildings in downtown Reedsport as part of the Old Town Reedsport Roof and Awning Project. From east to west, the properties receiving a new roof are 339 Fir Ave. (Welcome Hotel), 340/350 Fir Ave. (two vacant storefronts in one building), 353 Fir Ave. (vacant) and 439 Fir Ave. (future location of Butterfly Effect, currently located on Winchester Avenue in Reedsport). The properties receiving an awning renovation are 417 Fir Ave. (Mindpower Gallery) and previously mentioned 340/350 Fir Ave. There is a $92,000 match from private investment and in-kind contributions exceeding the 30 percent match required to receive the grant. Construction on the five buildings will begin in June. This project will help the remaining vacant buildings on Main Street to be rentable, said Jonathan Wright, City Manager. Reedsports had a lot of interest lately when it comes to renting storefronts, but structural damage is currently preventing occupancy in Old Towns remaining empty buildings. City officials report that Reedsports vacancy rate has decreased drastically in the past five years, from almost 90 percent lowering to 22 percent. The Old Town Reedsport Roof and Awning Project will be doing work on three vacant buildings containing four vacant storefronts. One of the property owners plans to move their business into the building upon completion (Butterfly Effect) while the remaining vacancies will be available for rent when completed. The purpose of the Oregon Main Street Revitalization Grant is to support downtown revitalization efforts in communities participating in the Oregon Main Street Network. The maximum ask for the 2019 grant cycle was $200,000 with a 30-percent match. The grant can be used for purchasing, building or renovating buildings in downtown areas. RMSP was also awarded the OMS Revitalization Grant in 2017 during the previous grant cycle for the renovation of five upstairs apartments in the Burdick Building on the corner of Fir Avenue, which is part of state highway OR-38, and Fourth Street. Above: downtown Reedsport, courtesy Reedsport Main Street Program 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 Makwanpur court fails to maintain case settlement rate The District Court in Makwanpur had set a goal to settle 70 percent of its cases within this fiscal year. However, the target seems unachievable given the rising number of cases that are filed at the court. Shipwreck Exhibit and Gilnetting History Featured on N. Oregon Coast Published 05/09/2019 at 4:53 AM PDT - UPdated 05/10/2019 at 12:53 AM PDT By Oregon Coast Beach Connection staff (Cannon Beach, Oregon) Two fascinating events of a historical nature take over parts of Cannon Beach and Seaside this month. (Above: wreck of the Glenesslin at Manzanita). In Seaside, the subject turns to historical fishing methods on the Oregon coast. In the mid-19th century, men in boats powered only by sail or oar, fished with nets at the mouth of the Columbia River. Facing great danger, the gillnetters had to contend with fish traps, horse seiners and numerous adverse conditions. During 1880, more than 200 fishermen drowned. By the 1950s, dams, pollution and negative effects of fish hatcheries severely reduced returning salmon runs in the Columbia River. As the fishing industry declined, many fishermen left for Alaska and some left the industry, altogether. Former Seaside municipal judge, Robert Moberg, will share some of the 150-year history of gillnet fishing at 6 p.m. on Thursday, May 30 during Seaside Museums History & Hops series held at the Seaside Brewing Co. He will discuss the work, that was their joy but is now A Way of Life - All but Gone. Robert Moberg was born and raised in Astoria. He started gillnet fishing with his father on the Columbia River at age 10 and continued for some years in Bristol Bay, ultimately putting himself through college and law school by fishing. History & Hops is a series of local history discussions hosted by the Seaside Museum on the last Thursday of each month, September through May, at Seaside Brewing Co., 851 Broadway. Preserving Seasides History since 1974, the Seaside Museum and Historical Society is a non-profit educational institution with the mission to collect, preserve and interpret materials illustrative of the history of Seaside and the surrounding area. The museum is located at 570 Necanicum Drive, Seaside and is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. More information can be found at www.seasideoregonuseum.com. Down the road a tad is the Cannon Beach History Center & Museum, and this it opens up its latest exhibit: Shipwrecks of the Oregon Coast. There isnt one part of Oregons rugged coastline that doesnt have a story about a shipwreck, forced landing, or daring rescue. A popular waterway for centuries, the Oregon coast has many shipwreck stories to share. Indeed, the museum does just that: shares more of these adventurous tales. The exhibit will feature artifacts, photos, stories, and information related to the Glenesslin, USS Shark, The Mimi, The Struan, The Gem, The Emily Reed, Peter Iredale, and even the latest archaeological work related to the Beeswax Wreck Project. The exhibit will be on display through September of 2019. This exhibit was supported by the Kinsman Foundation and by Clatsop County. The Cannon Beach History Center & Museum hosts a series of off-season lectures on various topics from astrophysics to Sir Francis Drake - even the occasional concert. It is also home to the cannon that Cannon Beach is named for, as well as a longhouse replica, and tide pool exhibit. The museum features the history of Arch Cape, Cannon Beach, the Tillamook Rock lighthouse, and more. Admission to the museum is donation based because they believe history should be accessible to all, no matter financial status. During the summer the museum is open from 11 a.m. until 5 p.m., seven days a week. www.cbhistory.org. 503-436-9301. Lodging in Cannon Beach - Where to eat - Maps - Virtual Tours More About Oregon Coast hotels, lodging..... More About Oregon Coast Restaurants, Dining..... Coastal Spotlight LATEST Related Oregon Coast Articles Back to Oregon Coast Contact Advertise on BeachConnection.net All Content, unless otherwise attributed, copyright BeachConnection.net Unauthorized use or publication is not permitted Beatrice preschoolers learned about Josh on Thursday, with a presentation by Carmen Spitsnogle about how to stay safe this season in the water. Were hoping to someday get Josh the Otter out there like Smoky the Bear, so when kids see Josh they immediately think of water safety, Spitsnogle said. Spitsnogle asked the students questions like if they had ever been to a swimming pool or had one at home. She also asked if they had taken swimming lessons at the community pool or YMCA. She told students that it was important to wear a correctly-fitting lifejacket and be with an adult when you are in the water, and then had the students listen to the book. Volunteers from Beatrices Southeast Community College came to dress as Josh the Otter and help out as students danced with him and gave him high fives and hugs. The volunteers included students Amanda Weaver, Bailey Rumery and Briana Lonergan, and student life director Carrie Puhalla. Spitsnogle said the Josh the Otter presentations are tailored depending on the age group they are talking to. Last week I did a reading and a whole rally at Diller-Odell," she said. "The younger ones we read the book to. We talked about not going near water without an adult and just being safe. Then the older ones, they did posters, put them around the whole school. Fourth grade or fifth grade did a cheer and a water wave and sixth grade did skits. They all used their imagination and it was really cool. Spitsnogle has a personal tie to Josh the Otter, as well, as her daughter Ashley Spitsnogle is the illustrator for the book. Being a lifeguard, it was dear to her heart to be part of this, also, Spitsnogle said. Its a fun way to learn and teach kids how to be safe and make awareness. Spitsnogle explained that water safety doesnt just involve the pool, but also being aware of any water that a child can fall into, like a bathtub or even a toilet. If a baby falls in, they cant pull themselves back out, Spitsnogle said. We used to answer the door not thinking about kids being in the bathtub. No. It only takes seconds. May is national water safety month, and the memorial foundation is having an Otter Spotter Day on May 14 to get communities involved in water safety. Olympic swimmer Michael Phelps will be in Lincoln this month to be the keynote speaker at the 2019 Joshua Collingsworth Memorial Foundation dinner. Phelps, who has a record-setting 23 gold medals for swimming, has created the Michael Phelps Foundation to promote water safety, healthy living and the pursuit of dreams. In 2017, Phelps partnered with the Joshua Collingsworth Memorial Foundation to help expand their efforts in teaching water safety to children. Joshua Collingsworth passed away in 2008 after drowning in his familys pool. His story is similar to many other families, as the CDC reports the number one cause of death for children aged one to four is unintentional drowning. Its the second leading cause of death for children age five to nine. Joshs father wrote a book in his honor titled Josh the Otter," which teaches children water safety. The book is being read in schools across the United States, as well as Australia, Japan, Pakistan, Brazil, Peru and Colombia. Individuals can send pictures or a short video to blake@joshtheotter.org sharing how Josh the Otter has impacted them, their family and/or their community, with prizes to be awarded to the top three submissions. The Joshua Collingsworth Memorial Foundation dinner will be held Friday, May 31 from 5:30-9 p.m. at the Scottish Rite Masonic Center in Lincoln. Love 1 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Want to see more like this? Get our local education coverage delivered directly to your inbox. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Five Gage County organizations were recognized for their tourism efforts Wednesday during the annual Gage County Tourism Awards. The event was held at the Great Plains Welsh Heritage Center in Wymore, where guests were also invited to tour the historic Pleasantview schoolhouse in McCandless Park. A presentation was also given by Michael Collins, state Tourism Advisory Committee chairman, before the awards were announced. Courtney Schlake, coordinator of Gage County Tourism, said the event is a chance to recognize those who support tourism efforts in the area. We have a lot of organizations and individuals that help us promote tourism, so we want to acknowledge them and show that we see all their hard work and everything that theyre doing for us, she said. Awards presented at the event included: Friend of tourism Beatrice Girls Softball Association Outstanding tourism campaign Trail of Treasures Outstanding tourism website Oak Haven Acres Outstanding tourism event Tallgrass Prairie Fiddle Festival Outstanding tourism attraction Chief Standing Bear Trail Dennis Dodge, who accepted the friend of tourism award, said a variety of grants have contributed to ballpark improvements over the years that have made the area a destination for tournaments. We went from three diamonds, to five, to seven and made a lot of improvements, he said. This last weekend we had teams in here from Iowa, South Dakota, Kansas, Colorado, over 60 teams. Schlake, who began her role as tourism coordinator last year, said Gage County has more to offer than many realize, and that its important to recognize all thats been done to promote tourism in the area. Its been an absolute blast getting to explore all of Gage County and our attractions, meeting new people within this industry, she said. Gage County has a lot of exciting places to visit and explore that I thoroughly enjoy sharing with our visitorsThis week is also national travel and tourism week so I thought that was a perfect way to celebrate that, by bringing everyone here and awarding some of our attractions. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 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. In 2011, the leading Republican presidential candidates met for a debate and former Texas governor Rick Perry was booed by the audience. During the debate, he was asked to explain his approval of a policy at the University of Texas that gave scholarships to undocumented students. The audience did not approve Governor Perry was right and the audience was wrong. Universities should be open to all students who show the desire and ability to master a school's academic offerings. A student may come from in-state or out of state or even from abroad. A university should reward merit regardless of national origin.Currently, conservative opinion leans against most forms of immigration. For example, Reihan Salam recently published a book whose subtitle is "A Child of Immigrants Argues Against Open Borders." The current administration has continued to advocate policies that aim to restrict migration, authorized and unauthorized. For example, it has tried to end the DACA program and reduce the number of refugees as well as issue "travel bans" on selected nations.This shift in opinion is genuinely surprising, given that this nation was founded upon the idea that people should be free to move as they see fit. The Declaration of Independence itself says that a reason for secession is that King George III prevented migration and suppressed the population growth the colonies needed. Ilya Somin, professor at the Antonin Scalia Law School at George Mason University, reminds us that jurisprudence in the 1800s remained pro-immigration as that was the original view of the Founders.As recently as the 1980s, conservative political leaders often saw the need to allow immigrants, including undocumented immigrants, to be full-fledged participants in American institutions, including education. In 1980, there was a debate between two leading Republican candidates for president-party leader George H.W. Bush and former California governor Ronald Reagan. An audience member asked a question and wanted to know what the candidates thought about allowing migrants into American schools. He wanted to know if children of undocumented immigrants should be allowed to attend public school for free or if their parents would have to pay for it.George H.W. Bush went first and explained that he wanted a humane approach to immigration that would prevent the issue described by the audience member. Bush emphasized that he saw the need for labor and that the government should not makeand hard-working people into lawbreakers. He then said that he did not want young children to believe that theyBush's message is clear: It is unwise, and inhumane, to turn children into second-class citizens.Reagan then added that it is quite normal for people in an impoverished nation, such as Mexico, to seek jobs in the United States and that the law should make it easy for people to move back and forth, as they save money and bring it back to their families. Reagan's generally supportive view of migration in this exchange was not isolated. It was a recurring theme in his presidency, including his final presidential speech.The issue raised by the man in the 1980 debate continues today. And as Rick Perry found out, the position of Reagan and Bush is not popular in many circles-but it should be. My view is that support of migration is consistent with conservative values and that young people, including college students, should not be excluded from education because of their migration status.The argument is intuitive. First, conservative social though often relies on the idea of personal responsibility, as Dennis Prager argued . People should be judged on their behavior, not the behavior of others. To exclude students from colleges because of a legal violation by their parents directly contradicts this central idea. If a student attends school, participates, and masters the material, then they should be appropriately rewarded. If conservatives oppose affirmative action because it rewards applicants whose credentials fall below a school's standards, they should also support undocumented students who meet and surpass the school's criteria for admission and financial support. To do otherwise is a rejection of meritocratic norms.The exclusion of undocumented students also runs afoul of our most cherished legal traditions. The Eighth Amendment to the Constitution prohibits "cruel and unusual punishment." If one were to take the text in its original meaning, it would certainly imply that rules and regulations that prohibit people from obtaining an education because of a non-criminal procedural violation are not valid. This is because educational credentials are often needed for many well-paying jobs in society. They are also needed if one wants to practice a variety of occupations, such as medicine, law, and teaching. Not only would the exclusion of undocumented students result in vast losses of income, but it also deprives these students of the freedom to compete for jobs and thus contribute to their society.Perhaps the most important reason to include undocumented students in higher education is Burkean. A key tenet of Burke's philosophy in, which motivates many modern conservatives, is that one should resist radical social change. Instead, we should understand that society is an organic entity, with traditions that represent accumulated knowledge and wisdom.Higher education is clearly one such institution and it has built up knowledge through the centuries. Universities have realized that they maintain their vitality by accepting a wide range of students, not just from their own region, but from the world. This range may include those students who have spent their lives abroad, as well as those whose parents may have brought them to our country. Native born and foreign born, including the undocumented, can all be contributors. To tell universities that they can't choose their student body in the way they see fit undermines their autonomy and represents an intrusive top-down approach to higher education. Institutions of higher education have long understood that their mission is best served when they can attract students not only from America but from across the world.The Migration Policy Institute estimates that approximately 793,000 individuals have participated in the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals Program and that 18 percent of them have enrolled, at some point, in institutions of higher education. As a result, at least 200,000 people who are unauthorized immigrants can be found at American campuses. The real number is probably higher. [1] We have a choice. We can go against important values, exclude undocumented persons from education, and thus create a student population segregated by national origin and legal status. Or we can allow them to participate in the American project. We can invite them to join our community, be educated in our schools, and renew our nation-as have generations of immigrants before them. [1] Using data from the American Community Survey, political scientist Michaelangelo Landgrave estimates that over 400,000 students in institutions of higher education are undocumented. He uses the same data and techniques to estimate incarceration rates for undocumented persons as reported in a 2017 policy brief for the Cato Institute.Contexts: Understanding People in Their Social Worlds. Stan Hoggatt recently released his book "Ni Mii Puu Traverse Yellowstone Plateau," about the life and story of Chief Joseph and the Nimiipuu (Nez Perce) Tribe. Hoggatt, a Billings resident, has been writing this story in collaboration with the Nez Perce Tribe since 1976. This weekend at The Post at the Billings Depot, Hoggatt will tell the story of Chief Joseph and his role in the Nez Perce War of 1877, and sign copies of the new book. Born on the Clark Folk Brothers Ranch, one of the original homestead ranches in Colorado, Hoggatt grew up in Denver and fell in love with the western lifestyle, according to a press release from the Billings Depot. An Air Force veteran, Hoggatt served in the diplomatic service and was assigned to the American embassy in London for 25 years. Moving to Montana, Hoggatt was welcomed by the Nez Perce Tribe and considered a trusted friend of Chief Josephs family, who asked Hoggatt to write the story of Chief Josephs life and their familys struggle to preserve ancestral lands in Yellowstone National Park and the Grand Tetons. The author will present readings and tell stories about Chief Joseph from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, Friday through Sunday, in The Post at the Billings Depot. Photos, books and maps will be available for sale and signing. Love 1 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 RED LODGE Humanities Montana will host Hometown Happy Hour and Think & Drink: The Art of Meaningful Conversation with Montana Poet Laureate Lowell Jaeger on Thursday, May 16, at Red Lodge Ales Brewing Co. Hometown Happy Hour is a free dinner from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. After the meal, Jaeger will speak from 6:30 to 8 p.m., as he guides the audience into lively conversations about creative intelligence, the impact of storytelling, and how to foster meaningful exchanges in our everyday lives. Jaeger is an author, professor of creative writing at Flathead Valley Community College, and the 2017-2019 Montana Poet Laureate. He is the founding editor of Many Voices Press and a winner of the Grolier Poetry Peace Prize. A nationally recognized poet, Jaeger has provided more than 100 programs to Montana communities as poet laureate with the support of Humanities Montana. He lives in Yellow Bay. For more information, call Red Lodge Ales at 406-446-0243 or Humanities Montana at 406-243-6022. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 An 8-year-old Flathead County girl thought to be missing and in danger has been located and determined to be safe. A Missing Endangered Person Advisory has been canceled for Jennifer Graham, according to an update from the Montana Department of Justice sent Wednesday at 10:30 p.m. "She and her parents have been located safely in Idaho and the child has been determined not to be in danger," the department said in the update. "The Flathead County Sheriff's Office thanks you for any and all assistance." Before the update, Graham had last been seen Monday at her school and was thought to be traveling with her father, according to the Flathead County Sheriff's Office. She had not returned to school after officials received the report, according to the original alert. Love 2 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 1 Angry 3 Walton said since he started net metering, hes lost energy credits every April, which is the month NorthWestern purges any unused credits from Waltons account. Why is adding solar panels to save electricity any different from buying a gas water heater or gas stove, both of which cut his NorthWestern bill by replacing it with a service the utility doesnt provide in Billings? Thats the question Walton and others facing the demand charge are asking. Why is saving energy one way penalized? NorthWestern has roughly 2,100 Montanans who net meter, according to its own estimates. Those customers are a small percentage of the 370,000 Montana electric customer pool the utility tabulated for investors earlier this year. At the PSCs listening session in Billings on Monday night, the number of customers who net meter was disproportionate. There were roughly 35 people in attendance. Those who spoke objected mostly to the demand charge, though one man did rise to say NorthWestern had overbilled his street lighting district by more than $60,000 for lights that should have been paid off years ago. Mired in politics, theres little likelihood Budhi Gandaki will take off In September last year, the KP Sharma Oli administration decided to rope in China Gezhouba Group Corporation to develop Budhi Gandaki Hydropower Project, disowning the erstwhile Sher Bahadur Deuba governments decision to develop the 1,200MW project with internal resources. Two years after it burned down in the Kenow fire, Waterton Lakes National Parks visitor center has begun reconstruction. The new center was actually OKd in 2015, before the 49,000-acre wildfire nearly scorched Waterton townsite itself in September 2017. Parks Canadas visitor center at the north end of the townsite burned to the foundations while the landmark Prince of Wales Hotel a few hundred yards away survived untouched. The old center site has been cleared and turned into a trailhead for the popular Bears Hump trail, while a temporary visitor service center has been installed on Fountain Avenue at the north end of the village. This new visitor center will be much more substantive, Parks Canada project leader Jim Lambe said on Wednesday. It should be complete by 2021. Were allowing the contractor to work seven days a week because we have such a short construction season. We hope to have major components closed in before winter arrives. Two items related to the proposed Mud Springs Wind Project in Carbon County will top the Montana Sage Grouse Oversight Team's meeting on Tuesday, May 14, at 1:15 p.m. in Helena. MSGOT members will consider executive action on a determination on areas of the project that potentially pre-date the state's sage grouse management strategy and would be grandfathered; and consideration of voluntary mitigation activities for the grandfathered area by the project sponsors. MSGOT will also discuss consideration of a future approach to mitigation for impacts in the remaining project area. The wind farm is located on private land about 10 miles southeast of Bridger. When completed it will feature 96 turbines capable of generating 240 megawatts of power. All meeting materials are available on MSGOTs meeting web page. See https://sagegrouse.mt.gov/Team. Graduate Marshall Logan, 24, who graduated with an Outdoor Adventure Leadership degree from MSUB last fall, said it was the soft skills that helped him land a job in Utah that he will soon start as a Backroads Travel guide. The companys rigorous application process took five months and included six interviews. Why did he get the job? Honestly, I think a lot of it has to do with the leadership part of (the OAL program), like conflict resolution, that helped him land the position over peers who were equally qualified in the physical aspects of the job, he said. Logan grew up in Michigan, but was attracted to Montana after taking family vacations to ski at Big Sky Resort. After completing a one-year program in Canada he relocated to Billings as an Outdoor Adventure Leadership major. Ive always been drawn to the state, people are way more relaxed and open, he said. The two parts about the OAL program that he enjoyed the most were building a business plan for an outdoor company that helped him learn about the administrative side of the industry and a weeklong backpacking trip into the Beartooth Mountains with his fellow classmates. There are two entire recreational seasons yet to occur before the current (Army Corps of Engineers) lease concludes, she wrote. Running their concerns up the chain of command, the Friends appealed to Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks director Martha Williams, who also denied the groups plea in a January 2018 letter. Williams acknowledged state parks suffered from a paperwork error in processing the original appeal, but wrote that since then the department had worked to resolve the issue quickly. Board hearing The Friday meeting of the Montana State Parks and Recreation Board is now the last stop for the Friends of Hell Creeks appeal. Gustafson is angry, saying the agency has violated its own appeal process by not openly communicating to resolve the groups concerns. They ignore the truth so they can get this behind them, he wrote in an email. The parks board could rule as soon as Friday or take the issue under advisement. Until the board has ruled, no new date for re-starting construction at Hell Creek will be set, according to a park spokesman. The Bureau of Land Management and FishingCommunity.org will host the Hogan/Luce Veterans Family Fishing Classic on June 1 at the Hogan/Luce Recreation Area near Cody, Wyoming. The event is free of charge and open to all veterans, their families and the public. The event will run from 9 a.m.2 p.m. Activities will include shore fishing, fishing instruction, children's activities and the chance to check out the recent improvements at Hogan/Luce that make the site more accessible for people with disabilities, including accessible picnic tables, fire rings, bear boxes and other upgrades. All fishing equipment will be supplied and lunch provided for veterans and their families. The event is the same day as the state of Wyomings annual free fishing day part of National Fishing and Boating Week so fishing permits are not required. AARP North Dakota is seeking nominations for its Andrus Award for Community Service, which honors North Dakotans 50 and older who share their experience, talent and skills without pay to enrich the lives of others. A former Burleigh County deputy in prison for drug theft has had his license revoked by the North Dakota Peace Officer Standards and Training Board. Kerry Komrosky, 32, pleaded guilty in October to amended charges in connection with stealing drugs from the state crime lab. South Central District Judge John Grinsteiner sentenced him to 3.5 years in prison and two years supervised probation. Duane Stanley, executive secretary for the POST Board, said the board's vote was unanimous Wednesday night to revoke Komrosky's peace officer license due to his conviction. The board suspended his license a year ago, pending the outcome of his criminal case. Komrosky resigned from the Burleigh County Sheriff's Department after investigators found drugs in his home. No one appeared on Komrosky's behalf during the POST Board's meeting, Stanley said. Komrosky is being held at the Missouri River Correctional Center in Bismarck. Komrosky's guilty plea was made on the condition he could challenge an order denying suppression of evidence and withdraw his plea, if successful. He has appealed his case to the North Dakota Supreme Court. Reach Jack Dura at 701-250-8225 or jack.dura@bismarcktribune.com. Love 1 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Sign up for our Crime & Courts newsletter Get the latest in local public safety news with this weekly email. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. GRAND FORKS The North Dakota University System saw a small bump in appropriations for the upcoming biennium, a move that delighted higher education officials across the state. The North Dakota Legislature allotted the higher education system $648.7 million from the states general fund for ongoing operations. The appropriation, a 6% increase from the prior biennium, aligns with State Board of Higher Educations needs-based budget request submitted prior to the legislative session. North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum signed bills related to higher education funding last week. Higher education directly influences these learners as well as the workplaces that hire these workers, NDUS Chancellor Mark Hagerott said in a statement. We work toward the betterment of the entire state and legislators across the state see the benefits of higher education in their own communities. State Board chairman Don Morton said he also is happy with the system budget overall. We have a very good budget balance between capital and operating funds, he said in a statement. We are very happy and encouraged that our employees, who have had to pick up extra work, will now have a compensation package this biennium. System employees, as well as state employees across the state, will see a small boost in salary next biennium. Average salary will increase 2% in the first year of the biennium, with a minimum and maximum amount. The second year of the biennium employees will see a 2.5% boost. Additionally, state-funded health insurance will be fully funded for employees. The university system says the budget will help ensure the states higher education environment remains strong, especially after a 17% budget reduction in 2017 that led to the elimination of almost 700 full-time positions across the state. The general fund dollars account for only 25% of the NDUS total $2.55 billion operational budget, the system said in a news release. Another 25% comes from tuition dollars and 50% is funded with auxiliary revenues, state and federal grants, and other local revenue funds. The 2017-19 ongoing operational budget was $2.46 million. Jed Shivers, vice president for finance and operations at the University of North Dakota, said he and many others at UND were concerned about the possibility of more cuts this coming biennium. Shivers said the university was essentially at an inflection point. If the Legislature were to hand down more cuts it would place UND and the university system on a difficult trajectory or, if there were no cuts, the school would be able to move forward, Shivers said. He added that the university would have endured no matter what happened. Other budget items In addition to the higher education bill, the system also saw dollars from other areas, including $32 million for Valley City State Universitys communications and fine arts building and $48 million for North Dakota State Universitys Dunbar Hall. These projects were first approved by the 2015 Legislature, but funds were not available for them until this biennium. These projects were funded through Senate Bill 2297, which covered critical capital projects in the state. The North Dakota National Guard tuition waiver was also increased from 25% to 35% of tuition costs at NDUS institutions. UND UND is sitting well overall for its budget, Shivers said. UND is looking to build a new, $70 million business school in the coming years. The university already has secured a $20 million pledge from an anonymous donor who said they would donate the money so long as the state matched their pledge. The Legislature approved the $20 million match; however, in order to get that money the school has to have the remaining $30 million also pledged. The higher education budget also included funds for the UND School of Law. A change in the law schools weighting factor in the higher education funding formula is estimated to bring in more than $2 million each biennium. Leaders on campus and on the State Board of Higher Education have said the additional funds are much needed to help the law school thrive. The bill included up to $250,000 in match funding for the school. The law school would receive $1 for every $2 it raises for projects dedicated exclusively to clinical legal education, including indigent legal services, or the recruitment and retention of faculty at the school. The Legislature also allowed the UND School of Medicine and Health Sciences to make aspects of its residency program a part of the schools ongoing operating expenses, rather than one-time funding every year. Combined, the medical school and providers like Altru manage 193 slots for medical residents and fellows training in various specialties throughout the state. Of those 193, the UND SMHS is fully responsible for 155 resident slots. Residencies can take up to five years to complete and cost around $150,000 per resident student each year, Dean Joshua Wynne said in January. Residency slots are funded through the Medicare program and are based on a cost report submitted by participating hospitals. North Dakota also pays for additional residency slots in the state because funding those positions is directly related to increasing the distribution of physicians in North Dakota, especially in rural areas, according to an appropriations fact sheet from the school. Those funds were coming through one-time funding each biennium, which led to some unknowns each year because the medical school would not know how many spots would be able to be filled with the appropriated dollars. Now, that money will become part of the schools ongoing operating expenses, which adds stability, Shivers said. UND also secured $1.5 million for its research network and IT upgrades, which is necessary for the school to be able to connect with research schools across the country. Research money While UND and NDSU did not secure money for their joint research bill, Shivers said he is happy to see the Energy and Environmental Research Center secure $5 million for exploratory research through Senate Bill 2249. The EERC is located on UNDs campus. The bill puts 1% of oil and gas gross production tax and oil extraction tax revenues into the state energy research center fund every month up to $5 million per biennium. The Legislature approved House Bill 1333, which includes a $15 million innovation technology loan fund. Shivers said this could apply to research work done at the universities; however, the money is not directly for schools. While UND was disappointed that $45 million in direct funds were not approved for an economic diversification research fund that would support work by UND and NDSU, Shivers said he is glad the conversation about research has gotten started in the state. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Prithvi Man Shrestha is a political reporter for The Kathmandu Post, covering the governance-related issues including corruption and irregularities in the government machinery. Before joining The Kathmandu Post in 2009, he worked at nepalnews.com and Rising Nepal primarily covering the issues of political and economic affairs for three years. Theres apparently secret police in North Dakota and thats unfortunate. It was revealed this week that law enforcement suspected a murder was committed in February in Ransom County, but they told the victims family not to talk about the case. As a result the death of William Galusha, 34, of Milnor, was considered a suicide. Even the minister at the funeral discussed how Galusha killed himself. The family didnt say anything because the Bureau of Criminal Investigation, the Ransom County Sheriff's Department and prosecutor asked the family to remain silent. The family wanted to discuss the case publicly, but followed law enforcements dictates. While Ransom County Sheriff Darren Benneweis admitted on Monday that foul play was suspected, he told the Forum News Service that "We don't run to the media all the time, every time we have something going on. We are spending the time investigating the case." The Tribune Editorial Board believes law enforcement handled this case badly. We dont expect law enforcement to reveal every detail about a case to the public, but to not acknowledge that a murder may have occurred and a possible killer is loose borders on malfeasance. Galushas family had to suffer in silence while misinformation about his death continued to circulate. Barry Wedge, 42, who was Galushas roommate, was being investigated in the case. Wedge killed himself after a shootout with police in southern Missouri when police tried to stop him for drunken driving. Wedge had been interviewed by the Missouri officials about Galusha's death. On Monday, North Dakota law enforcement released information on Galushas death. Benneweis said the investigation will continue and wasnt apologetic about the secrecy surrounding the case. Galushas family said law enforcement indicated they didnt want to make information public because they didnt want to be overwhelmed with far-fetched tips. The Tribune believes the public has the right to some basic information in cases like this. If its likely a murder occurred and the killer remains loose, the public needs to know. Law enforcement allowed false assumptions to circulate in public and for the victims family to suffer. The family could have gone public, but they were swayed by law enforcement not to say anything. Last month when four bodies were discovered in Mandan on a Monday, police only said there wasnt a threat to the public, releasing little information. On Thursday of that week they arrested a suspect in Washburn. The suspect had been loose for four days and the public had been left in the dark on how the four people died. When the suspect was captured his bond was set at $1 million because he was deemed a threat to the public. Its not surprising that some people were disappointed by the lack of information. Law enforcement needs to share some information when homicide is involved. The Tribune finds a blanket of secrecy unacceptable for the public. Galushas family had praise for the Ransom County Sheriffs Department investigation, but they were hurt by the request to suffer in silence. We realize that police work can be difficult, but keeping a possible murder secret to avoid being bothered by the public is wrong. Law enforcement needs to be willing to share some information, the public deserves it. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 This past weekend, the Bismarck-Mandan Bird Club participated in the Ebird Global Big Day. A group of 12 hearty souls started their day in General Sibley Park. The calm frosty morning allowed for the serenading sounds of birds to echo through the woods loud and clear in hopes of attracting a mate. Another vehicle participated by canvassing the favorite haunts in Morton County before heading east to the local favorite Long Lake National Wildlife Refuge. Amazingly, a third enthusiastic birder began in the southeast corner of the state and birded across the southern tier of counties, not realizing that all three groups would serendipitously end at the refuge at sunset. Ebird is a popular internet reporting tool developed by Cornell University which uses GPS to pinpoint where people look for birds and allows them to record the date and time, distance covered and catalog all the birds observed. This is an immensely powerful database being built by citizens that has a multitude of uses. Cornell University, in an effort to promote birding to new and old birders alike, planned a Big Day for May 4. Using all the submitted data nationwide, the database built would give a telling snapshot of migration throughout the country for all species. Complex visual maps could be built to display bird migration by tabulating species reported throughout the country at a point in time, and these images could follow through the entire migration north and south. Some species are already through North Dakota and setting up territories for the summer. Yet other species are just now hitting the Gulf Coast and will arrive here in a few weeks. Unfortunately, these birds dont all make it to their summer homes. Given the cold mornings recently, some birds are forced to forage on the ground in search of food. Having no time to watch their back for predators, they are frantically looking for their next morsel wherever it may be. For some, that next morsel may be found by perching on cattails in the water and skimming insects off the surface. In Sibley Park, one of my co-birders pointed out a tiny bird in big trouble. I was quite saddened to see one of my feathered friends, an orange-crowned warbler struggling to get out of the water in some dense vegetation. Somehow, it had attempted to pick up a meal and fell into the water. Immediately, the wet feathers did not allow for flight. The little gem struggled to get out of the water, but didnt have the strength to climb up on the branches. Additionally, the thick vegetation didnt allow for it to swim to shore. My comrade waded in thigh deep to rescue the little guy from the cold water. We gently held the bird in our hands in hopes it would dry out a bit but sadly this did not happen. I am sure since it was soaked to the core, the cold temperatures immediately forced hypothermia to set in, and the bird faded away within minutes. Sad to see it go. And this happens millions of times over. The next time you observe that robin attempting to build a nest on your entry way light, imagine the arduous journey it has survived to make your yard its home. Love 1 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Note: This article is part of the Principles Project, a list of principles, axioms, and beliefs that undergird a Christian view of economics, liberty, and virtue. Click here to read the introduction and other posts in this series. The Principle: #5F Because protecting parental authority is an issue of social justice, society should promote policies that allow families the highest degree of freedom in making choices about the education of their children. The Explanation: Social justice is a term and concept frequently associated with the political left, and too often used to champion positions that are destructive for society and antithetical to justice. Yet for Christians the term is too valuable to be abandoned. Conservatives need to rescue it from its erroneous connotations and restore its true meaning. True social justice is obtained, as my colleague Dylan Pahman has helpfully explained, when each member, group, and sphere of society gives to every other what is due. A key sphere of society in which social justice is in desperate need of restoration is education. The poor deserve the same freedom to obtain a quality education that is too often reserved for those wealthy enough to rescue their children from failing schools. Children deserve a quality education and parents deserve the right to choose such an education or their offspring. For these reason school choice should be considered a matter of social justice. The term school choice (or educational choice) refers to programs that give parents the power and opportunity to choose the schools their children attend, whether public, private, parochial, or homeschool. While there are some excellent public schools in America, many students are trapped in schools with inadequate facilities, substandard curriculum, and incompetent teachers. Most parents, however, cannot afford to pay for education twiceonce in taxes and again in private school tuition. School choice programs empower parents by letting them use public funds set aside for education on programs that will best serve their children. As Archbishop Charles J. Chaput says, lack of a quality education is a common thread among persons in severe poverty. And once stuck in deep poverty its very hard for anyone to escape due to the lack of skills needed to secure and hold employment: Few things are more important to people in poverty than ensuring their childrens education as a path to a better life. If the future of Philadelphia and Pennsylvania depends on an educated, productive public and it obviously does then providing every means to ensure a good education system becomes a matter of social justice. Prudent lawmakers from both major parties have understood this for years. They need to feel our support in the voting booth and throughout their public service. The point is this: Proper funding for public schools is clearly important. But experience has already shown that this cant be the only strategy because it doesnt work for many of the students who most urgently need a good education. Its therefore vital that our elected officials serve the real education needs of the poor by supporting school choice. But its not just poor parents that need the right to control their childrens education. As Pope Francis wrote in Amoris Laetitia, . . . I feel it important to reiterate that the overall education of children is a most serious duty and at the same time a primary right of parents. All parents should have the opportunity to choose an education for their children they deem to be satisfactory. The government may, for example, be satisfied with judging schools based on standardized test scores. But most parents want more. As economist Tyler Cowen says, [P]arents may like school choice for reasons other than test scores. To draw from the first link above, parents may like the academic programs, teacher skills, school discipline, safety, student respect for teachers, moral values, class size, teacher-parent relations, parental involvement, and freedom to observe religious traditions, among other facets of school choice. Perhaps now is the time to remind you that how the buyers like the product is the fundamental standard used by economists for judging public policy? That is not to say it is the final standard all things considered, but surely economists should at least start here and report positive parental satisfaction as a major feature of school choice programs. In fact, Ill say this: if youre reading a critique of vouchers and the critic isnt willing to tell you up front that parents typically like this form of school choice, I suspect the critic isnt really trying to inform you. Since the money for public schools is funneled through the government, the issue is often framed as if the government is the buyer of educational goods and services. If the faceless, impersonal bureaucracy is the customer then perhaps it does make sense to have standardized testingwhich lumps all students together and reduces them to a statistical metricas the criterion for satisfaction. But if we believe children belong to parents, and not the state, then we should allow the true customers of public education to determine if they are satisfied with the product. Parents will not be perfectly informed consumers of public schools, says economist Arnold Kling. But bureaucrats in Washington will be much less well informed. As Kling adds, Perhaps the [school choice] movement ought to be called the Make schools accountable to parents movement. Referencing Newt Gingrichs recent report regarding 5G technology, Alejandro Chafuen, Actons Managing Director, International, commented this morning in Forbes on the technology and its relation to free markets. Chafuen argues that a new, less centralized approach to wireless networking would be a source of great benefit both for individual consumers and for the United States on the world stage. On May 6, former Speaker of the House Newt Gingrich delivered a lengthy report to the United States Congress. The report, 5G: America at a Tipping Point, presents a frightening scenario: Imagine a world within a decade in which Chinese totalitarian rules are applied to the Internet, your cell phone is monitored by Beijing, your search engine is censored by Chinese authorities, and your facial identity is tracked around the world and archived in China. This world is incredibly likely if we continue to be confused and disorganized in building a 5G Internet system. 5G is a is a wireless networking architecture that aims to increase data communication speeds up to 20 times faster than its predecessor, 4G. It also allows connections for more than 200 additional devices per square mile than 4G. This would lead to increased connectivity affecting most aspects of our life. It also concomitantly increases the risks of potential harm due to software and hardware vulnerabilities, as well as risks of abuse by those who have the best access. In this case, the fear is that the Chinese government will become the biggest abuser. Gingrichs report is full of technical details and provides an outstanding overview of the technology and what is at stake. It concludes that the selection and allocation of specific bands of spectrum is the key to American victory in the race to 5G wireless capability. The United States is losing the 5G competition to China because we are allocating the wrong spectrum and using the wrong model. What follows is my effort to call for a change of mind on how we approach the spectrum market. On the morning of May 3, Acton University alumnus, Marcel van Hattem, was awarded the Order of Rio Branco, the highest civilian award in Brazil, by President Jair Bolsonaro. The Order of Rio Branco award, established in February 1963, is named after the Brazilian diplomat, Barao do Rio Branco, and given to stimulate the practice and deeds worthy of honorable mention, to distinguish meritorious services and civic virtues. Van Hattem was the only congressman from Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil to be honored at the ceremony. Van Hattem has proved to be one of the most influential leaders in the broad Acton Institute alumni network consisting of more than 8,500 leaders. Since 2011, Van Hattem has experienced a fast rise in Brazilian politics, now serving as a member of the New Party and a Federal Deputy from Rio Grande do Sul. The New Party was formed in 2011 around classically liberal principles, promoting limited government reform at every level. Van Hattem has quickly become a leading voice in the New Party as well as in Brazilian politics generally. In addition to his political activities in Brazil, Van Hattem has been actively involved in the work of the Acton Institute, attending Actons many events around the world. As a six-time Acton University alumnus, Van Hattem has inspired many others to attend or join Actons alumni network which now boasts of nearly 100 influential Brazilian leaders working in politics, business, non-profits and churches throughout Brazil. Van Hattem and Actons alumni network in Brazil are working tirelessly to promote a more free and moral society in Brazil. Van Hattem has famously stated, I do not want to live in another country, I want to live in another Brazil. At Acton University 2018, serving as the Master of the Ceremony for one of the four evening plenaries, Van Hattem had this to say about his first experience with Acton seven years ago, to an audience of 1,000+: Much in my life has changed since my first participation in [Acton University]. I rethought my role in society. I met great and inspiring people from all over the world. And, I was granted additional intellectual support and motivation to defend a free and virtuous society. Please join us in congratulating Van Hattem on this great honor. Now is the time that we need to stand with Van Hattem as he works to create another Brazil. A Brazil that is free, prosperous, democratic, and virtuous. The featured photo for this post was taken by Andres Fontana. As Actons librarian I cant help but be immersed in the history of the Institute. I regularly stumble upon thought-provoking material from well before I began my work here in the late 2000s which is itself a continuing education. One document in particular that I always return to is Father Robert Siricos 1998 contribution to the the Journal of Markets and Morality, The Late-Scholastic and Austrian Link to Modern Catholic Economic Thought. It is an excellent introduction the main counters of economic thought within Catholic social teaching from the Late-Scholastics to Pope Saint John Paul II: The reliance of the modern Catholic view of economics on Late-Scholastic thought has been more pronounced than ever. Both place enterprise, human initiative, the price system, exchange, private property, the division of labor, and the liberty of contract at the center of economic life. Unlike more positivist schools of economic thought, the modern Catholic approach never loses sight of the centrality of the acting person; the subjective will, and all that this implies, is the driving force behind economic life. That appreciation of the acting person is combined with a skepticism toward unnecessary uses of governmental power. This bears a striking resemblance to many of the key themes of Austrian School: The Austrian School is, from all appearances, a purely secular one, but one that arrived at Scholastic conclusions about the nature of economic value and the inherent workability of free exchange in markets. Carl Mengers work secured a foundation for a body of thought in the Austrian School that developed in this century around the works of Ludwig von Mises and F. A. Hayek. As with the Late Scholastics, the focus of the Austrian School is on individual intentions and purposes, and the schools share a high regard for enterprise and a dim view of the uses of power against the natural activity of economic exchange. In this sense, the Austrian economists, unknowingly, have furthered aspects of the personalist agenda. Father Robert explores the historical connection between these seemingly disparate schools which share so much in both their focus and methods. Please do read the whole thing which, like all but the two most recent issues of the Journal, are freely available for your research and reading pleasure at the Journals website. You may also subscribe to the Journal of Markets and Morality to get access to the latest two as well as future issues here. Insects trapped in amber. For anyone who has seen Jurassic Park, this description immediately conjures up familiar imagery. In the movie, such a fortuitously-preserved mosquito provided the means to bring dinosaurs back to life. While that may be the realm of science fiction, in the realm of science, such amber time capsules are still a valuable window into the past, allowing scientists today to examine ancient specimens and, sometimes, discover new species. Take, for example, Cyrtinella flavinigra. This species of spider fly lived during the Eocene Epoch, a major division of the geological timescale that lasted from 56 to 33.9 million years ago. Several specimens of this species were recovered from amber deposits in the Prussian Formation of the Baltic region. These specimens were used by Drs. Jessica P. Gillung and Shaun L. Winterton to describe a new genus and species with the designation Cyrtinella flavinigra. This was one of three new species described by the duo from specimens preserved in Baltic amber within their review of fossil spider flies (Diptera: Acroceridae) published within the Journal of Systematic Palaeontology in 2017. Cyrtinella flavinigra is also just one of 30 new insect species described by Gillung, a Postdoctoral Associate at the Danforth Lab at Cornell University. As an evolutionary biologist with a specialization in entomology, Gillungs research focuses on biodiversity discovery and cataloging and the processes that originate and maintain biodiversity. A major aspect of her work is describing new species. The Biodiversity Heritage Library (BHL) provides critical resources for this taxonomic work. For species discovery and cataloging, I need to be able to track down and understand the species that have already been described, explains Gillung. If it wasnt for BHL, I would not have been able to access many original species descriptions and compare them to the specimens I had at hand. Through those comparisons, mainly, I was able to recognize a new species or identify a previously described one. Gillung has been studying evolutionary biology since 2006. As a Masters student in Brazil, her research focused on the family Acroceridae, or spider flies, which develop almost exclusively as endoparasitoids of spiders, their maggots living within a host spider while feeding on its internal fluids until they metamorphosize into adults, leaving a dead, dry host behind. It was during her time as a Masters student ten years ago that Gillung first discovered BHL. I was looking for some ancient, specialized papers on spider flies, and a colleague sent me the link to the website. It changed my life! I was able to find pretty much EVERY single research paper I ever wanted, and I was able to study that literature very easily. Following the completion of her Masters, Gillung moved to California to begin her PhD in the Department of Entomology & Nematology at University of California Davis, where she also worked at the Bohart Museum of Entomology, one of the largest and most important natural history collections in the United States. She used BHL almost daily during this period, downloading whole and later custom PDFs of relevant publications and pages to her external hard drive, building a personal library of invaluable reference materials. As she confided, I downloaded pretty much EVERY work that has ever been published about the insect group I study. The ability to download PDFs from BHL has allowed Gillung to continue her research anytime, anywhere even when Internet access is unavailable. I specifically remember one time I was stuck at the airport on my way to visit my family in Brazil, recalls Gillung. My flights were delayed, and I had long layovers. So, I started working on one of my scientific publications, and I was able to get plenty of work done because I had saved the PDFs beforehand. Had BHL not existed, that would not have been possible. Of the over 240,000 volumes available in BHL, Gillungs favorite is Wiedemanns 1830 monograph on the Flies from Outside of Europe (Aussereuropaische Zweiflugelige Insekten). A German historian, physician, naturalist, and entomologist, Wiedemann described many new insect species, including the fly genus Philopota, which Gillung studied for her Masters, during which she completed a revision of the genus. As part of the revision, Gillung re-described the known species, provided photographs and drawings for their identification, and described 13 new species from throughout Latin America. The library at my university did not have a copy of Wiedemanns monograph, recalls Gillung. My progress was hindered until I was able to download the whole PDF from BHL. I fell in love with the website! By providing free and open access to critical biodiversity literature, the Biodiversity Heritage Library is empowering global research. From enabling the description of new species to providing access to beautiful scientific illustrations (Gillung confides that one of her favorite pastimes is exploring the plates in the PDFs shes downloaded), BHL has become an invaluable resource for researchers around the world. To quote Dr. Gillung: BHL has made my research possible. A famous chef tried to haul a duffel bag full of 40 vacuum-sealed, frozen piranhas into Los Angeles for a cooking competition. Agents there were not amused. Do not ever try this. "Customs officers do not like it when you try to bring a duffel bag full of 40 vacuum-sealed, frozen piranhas into Los Angeles," reports the Los Angeles Times. Virgilio Martinez, a renowned Peruvian chef, was interrogated for five hours. Officials in Customs finally cleared him to bring the ill-conceived fish selection to a dinner at Somni in Los Angeles. Well, at least he brought them in frozen, rather than alive. [ via eater.com | Amazon Black Piranha with exposed teeth | Shutterstock] It's now been two months since Facebook promised to take action to limit the spread of disinformation about vaccines. Two months later, anti-vaccination posts and a #vaccineskill tag still appear prominently all over Facebook-owned Instagram. Kaya Yurieff at CNN reports that "Two months after Facebook pledged to fight vaccine misinformation on its platforms, and in the midst of a measles outbreak in New York City," Instagram is still serving up plenty of posts from anti-vaccination accounts (some of which may be from Russia), plus anti-vaccination hashtags, when you search for "vaccines." Excerpt: An Instagram spokesperson added that its efforts are focused on vaccine misinformation, not the anti-vax movement. This means that Instagram wants to curtail false information about vaccines, but not ban people who identify as anti-vaxers or publish anti-vaccine posts. Karina Newton, Instagram's global head of public policy, said the company has blocked what she called hashtags with "straight up" vaccine misinformation, such as #VaccinesCauseAIDS. The company said it's focused on removing "publicly identified verifiable vaccine hoaxes" identified by groups like the World Health Organization, such as #VaccinesCauseAIDs. But a review by CNN Business found that the hashtag #VaccinesKill was still up on the site and was a top result after anti-vax accounts. Posts with the hashtag were a mix of misinformation and content mocking anti-vaxers, though more than half of the top nine posts under the hashtag on Wednesday, were anti-vax. Asked by CNN Business why #VaccinesKill was acceptable when #VaccinesCauseAIDS was not, an Instagram spokesperson said there isn't an officially debunked claim that vaccines kill. "Vaccines are extremely safe. Serious adverse reactions are very, very rare. It's very unfortunate that there would be such a hashtag because it's going to scare people," said Daniel Salmon, a professor at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health and director of the Institute for Vaccine Safety. "If you scare people, less people will get vaccinated and you'll have outbreaks of things like measles which can kill children." Scientists have repeatedly and consistently debunked the most common anti-vax myth, the idea that there is a link between vaccinations and the development of autism in children. Reputable organizations like the American Medical Association and the American Academy of Pediatrics say that vaccination for children is crucial to public health. Reporters at Tuesday's event asked Instagram executives why search results for "vaccine" under the mobile app's "Top" tab yielded results like the anti-vax "Christians Against Vaccines" and "Vaccinetruth." "It's an area we're iterating on right now," said Yoav Shapira, engineering manager of Instagram's "well-being" team, at Tuesday's presentation. Oh. Okay. Good to know. [via techmeme.com] Parties in negotiations to get their people in transitional justice bodies The two transitional justice mechanisms failure to achieve anything substantial in the last four years has largely been attributed to politics and political bickering. Conflict victims have long said that since officials in the two bodies were selected under political quota, there was a lack of independence. Members of the United States Federal Trade Commission (FCC) on Wednesday asked Congress to create a national privacy law that would regulate how technology giants like Facebook and Google gather, store, and share the personal data of users. "As we have learned from the concerning privacy issues surrounding Cambridge Analytica and Facebook, and from massive data breaches like the one at Equifax, there is little reason to believe that consumers can trust these companies with our personal data," said Frank Pallone (D-NJ), who heads the energy and commerce committee. Cecilia Kang at the New York Times: War crimes are among the most grisly and difficult-to-prosecute crimes; and yet, ironically, the criminals have made it easier for prosecutors, by uploading videos celebrating their atrocities to Big Tech platforms like Facebook and Youtube, where they can act as recruiting tools for terrorists and extremists. It's these very videos that human rights activists, atrocity survivors and armchair sleuths turn to in order to perform "open source intelligence" analysis on the perpetrators, effectively doxing them and handing overworked, under-resourced prosecutors the evidence they need to bring war criminals to justice. Against this trend, though, is Big Tech's zeal to remove "terrorist content," a kind of overreaction to years of indifference to complaints about all kinds of bad content that violated the platforms' own guidelines. The newly self-deputized platforms are playing content police and taking down "terrorist content" as fast as they can find it, using algorithmic dragnets that catch plenty of dolphins along with the tuna they're trawling for. To make things worse, Big Tech invents its own definitions of "terrorism," that barely overlap with internationally recognized definitions. It's about to get much worse: in the wake of the Christchurch white terror attacks, the Australian government rushed through legislation requiring platforms to remove "terror" content within an hour (a deadline so short that it guarantees that there will be no serious checks undertaken before content is removed) and now both the EU and the UK are poised to follow suit. And there's plentiful evidence that terror cops are incredibly sloppy when they wield the censor's pen: last month, a French intelligence agency gave the Internet Archive 24 hours to remove "terrorist" content, targeting the Archive's collections of 15,000,000 text files, its copy of Project Gutenberg, and its entire archive of Grateful Dead recordings. Human rights advocates are sounding the alarm, but no one is listening. It's a rerun of SESTA/FOSTA, the US anti-sex-trafficking bill that sex workers vigorously opposed, saying it would make them less safe but which passed anyway, and now sex workers are much less safe. Designed to identify and take down content posted by "extremists""extremists" as defined by software engineersmachine-learning software has become a potent catch-and-kill tool to keep the world's largest social networks remarkably more sanitized places than they were just a year ago. Google and Facebook break out the numbers in their quarterly transparency reports. YouTube pulled 33 million videos off its network in 2018roughly 90,000 a day. Of the videos removed after automated systems flagged them, 73 percent were removed so fast that no community members ever saw them. Meanwhile, Facebook removed 15 million pieces of content it deemed "terrorist propaganda" from October 2017 to September 2018. In the third quarter of 2018, machines performed 99.5 percent of Facebook's "terrorist content" takedowns. Just 0.5 percent of the purged material was reported by users first. Those statistics are deeply troubling to open-source investigators, who complain that the machine-learning tools are black boxes. Few people, if any, in the human-rights world know how they're programmed. Are these AI-powered vacuum cleaners able to discern that a video from Syria, Yemen, or Libya might be a valuable piece of evidence, something someone risked his or her life to post, and therefore worth preserving? YouTube, for one, says it's working with human-rights experts to fine-tune its take-down procedures. But deeper discussions about the technology involved are rare. "Companies are very loath to let civil society talk directly to engineers," says Dia Kayyali, a technology-advocacy program manager at Witness, a human-rights organization that works with Khatib and the Syrian Archive. "It's something that I've pushed for. A lot." Tech Companies Are Deleting Evidence of War Crimes [Bernhard Warner/The Atlantic] (via Four Short Links) The CIA and security services of one or more foreign governments have recently warned at least three friends and colleagues of the murdered journalist Jamal Khashoggi that their pro-democracy work "has made them and their families the targets of potential retaliation from Saudi Arabia," reports TIME. It wasn't only me. CIA sent warnings about at least three activists who were close to Jamal Khashoggi, one of whom was also taken into protection. Great work on this piece from @JoshMeyerDC. https://t.co/1FTl20Cu2a Iyad el-Baghdadi | (@iyad_elbaghdadi) May 9, 2019 Josh Meyer's report at TIME identifies the three individuals as Norway-based Iyad el-Baghdadi, Canada-based Omar Abdulaziz, and a third person who is said to be based in the US. This is a weird way to learn that Paul Manafort was a lawyer, but here we are. The D.C. Court of Appeals has disbarred President Trump's former campaign chairman, because Manafort was convicted of obstruction of justice and conspiracy. From the Washington Post's Keith L. Alexander and Rachel Weiner: J. L. BELL is a Massachusetts writer who specializes in (among other things) the start of the American Revolution in and around Boston. He is particularly interested in the experiences of children in 1765-75. He has published scholarly papers and popular articles for both children and adults. He was consultant for an episode of History Detectives, and contributed to a display at Minute Man National Historic Park. News / National by Staff Reporter HUNDREDS of people from all walks of life yesterday converged at Lobengula Hall in Bulawayo to bid farewell to the late national hero Velaphi Misheck Ncube.Ncube (82), who was also Zanu-PF's National Consultative Assembly (NCA) member, succumbed to diabetes on April 29.In an emotional send off, speakers spoke well of Ncube, describing him as a humble, honest and dedicated revolutionary who contributed immensely to the country's liberation struggle.Addressing mourners, Bulawayo Provincial Affairs Minister Judith Ncube described the late national hero as a true cadre who fought a good fight and left a rich legacy for the country."In mourning Velaphi Ncube as Bulawayo province and Zimbabwe as a whole, we are saying there is need to follow in his footsteps as he was a hard worker. We can only honour and preserve his legacy by working hard to grow our economy and improve the people's lives," she said.Ncube said if Zimbabweans change their attitudes, the country will be a better place to live in."I remember the late Vice-President Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo in his own words saying 'Mr (Robert) Mugabe if we are not careful we are leading towards a chaotic situation. We need to rectify this issue of corruption before it is too late because if we don't our children will destroy this country's economy.' Let us therefore put our heads together, unite and work for our country," said Ncube.Body of the late national hero Misheck Ncube being flown to Harare from Joshua Nkomo International Airport in Bulawayo Zanu-PF Politburo member Absolom Sikhosana said Ncube was a revolutionary icon with an illustrious liberation history."Ncube was a true hero whose credentials are unquestionable. He was a revolutionary icon with inescapable liberation history who left an indelible mark during the liberation struggle and even after independence," he said.Sikhosana described the late national hero as a principled man who always preached peace, development and love. Renowned historian Mr Phathisa Nyathi also gave a detailed narrative of the documented history of Ncube's contribution to the liberation struggle.He said the late national hero was a selfless liberator who was among a group that went to Ghana and Egypt to receive military training with a special focus on sabotage."Velaphi was one of the pioneers of the liberation struggle. He was always in and out of prison for participating in the armed struggle and it is through sacrifices by people such as Ncube that we attained our independence," said Mr Nyathi.He said at the time of Ncube's death he had started documenting his history. News / National by Mandla Ndlovu MDC Treasurer General aspirant David Coltart has dismissed the high court judgement as an empty thunder that is seriously laden with flaws.The court ruled on Wednesday that MDC leader Nelson Chamisa is not the rightful leader of the MDC and his appointment as Vice President by the late Morgan Tsvangirai should be set aside.Said Coltart, "I have just finished reading the High Court judgment against the MDC . I am profoundly shocked by the reasoning of the learned Judge. The judgement is seriously flawed in numerous respects. The application should have been dismissed on several different grounds but wasn't."This is what is called a brutum fulmen - empty thunder, an ineffective order. By the time the appeal is heard a duly constituted Congress of the MDC will have been held and Nelson Chamisa elected. Pathetic interference with the due process of a party."Colltart added that the court seemed to b captured by ZANU PF and were being used to fight Nelson Chamisa."Imagine if Mugabe or the G40 had gone to Court to argue that Mnangagwa had been illegally appointed President of ZANU PF in December 2017 after the violent ouster of Mugabe. It is hard to imagine any Zimbabwean Court being bold enough to rule as they have today against the MDC."The farcical nature of life in Zimbabwe. Next the High Court will be ruling that Nelson Chamisa is not a person. The regime truly fears him taking full and unfettered leadership of the MDC."Commenting on matter MDC Vice President Professor Welshman Ncube said the decision by the judge was inconsistent with a previous judgement on the same."Wonders never cease!! During Morgan Tsvangirai's lifetime the High Court ruled that his appointment of 2 additional Vice Presidents was lawful and today the same High Court decides contrary to law, to revisit its own decision and makes a contrary ruling," Said Ncube. News / National by Mandla Ndlovu UNICEF Zimbabwe has revealed that Dzingire Primary School in Chimanimani lost 50 students, their headmaster and 3 teachers to Cyclone Idai which struck Manicaland region in March.The organisation said it is supporting the remaining pupils with counseling."Psychosocial and trauma support is critical on the long road to recovery. Students are participating in psychosocial activities to help build resilience to move past the tragedy." UNICEF said in a statement.The devastating Cyclone Idai reportedly washed away schools and supplies in Chimanimani and Chipinge. UNICEF is also providing support to Kwirire Primary School in Chimanimani for the continued learning for over 1,000 children.UNICEF Representative in Zimbabwe Laylee Moshiri said, "Over 129,000 children were affected by Cyclone Idai and are in urgent need of help. The gravity of the crisis is becoming clearer and its implications for women and children are huge." Pramod Mishra is a biweekly columnist for The Kathmandu Post. He is the department chair of English Studies at Lewis University in the United States. News / National by Methusi Ncube A video of president Emmerson Mnangagwa boasting about how Zanu-PF ensures sabotage in MDC run urban councils has gone viral.In the footage, Mnangagwa tells a crowd that if they vote for MDC in any election they will suffer because MDC representatives, be it Members of Parliament or councillors, would never have the guts to approach "a beast like me (Mnangagwa)" to ask for resources for development.In Typical blasphemous fashion the president likens his power to that of God and says he would never respond to MDC requests because MDC representatives are not in his "book of life."The video follows another where Mnangagwa bragged that Zanu-PF has captured all State institutions and nothing can happen in the country without his party's say so.An MDC councillor in Bulawayo yesterday told Bulawayo24.com that government sabotage in urban councils is very real and causes needless suffering of Zimbabweans. The councillor said the meddling seems to have escalated since the Mugabe Era ended."We have easily the best run council in the country but it can be better for residents if government was not throwing spanners into the works every time and causing residents to suffer. One way the government fixes us is to ensure that foreign currency allocations for critical stuff like water treatment chemicals or development projects are always late. Applications are made to the Reserve Bank but the money, if it comes, would have been overtaken by events and council would have sourced the money from expensive sources to ensure service delivery is uninterrupted. The cost of the expensive forex is passed onto residents because council has no choice. If we wait for government services will collapse and the same government will climb the highest mountain and shout that MDC has failed," said the councillor.An official from the local authority said when government populist projects fail in the city, council is forced to clean up the mess."Remember Murambatsvina where government destroyed people's homes and came up with the Garikai/Hlalani Kuhle project? Look at Cowdray Park where they built houses without servicing the area for sewer or roads. On top of that government officials corruptly allocated houses to multiple owners. Council, to avoid diseases that would kill people and increase the city's health budget was forced to take over the project and service the areas. Millions of unbudgeted for dollars have since been poured into the project to solve the issue of multiple ownership of one house and provide service," said the official.A councillor from Harare said Zanu-PF does not realise that sabotaging urban councils is among the major causes of the country's economic decline as the potential for the councils to contribute positively to the fiscus is lost.@pacheduZw tweeted that the video is not recent but shows the ZanuPF culture."This was 4 years ago. However, this is very important for this to be known as it corroborates events in the present day & also, as it informs about the organisational culture & behaviour. Organisational culture does not change overnight!" News / National by Mandla Ndlovu MDC leader Nelson has rapped the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission for conducting elections in a sham manner as compared the way the Independent Electoral Commission of South Africa is doing."Unlike with ZEC in Zimbabwe, the IEC of RSA results center is fully transparent."Chamisa said. "The management system works and each party has direct access to the portal receiving results from the polling stations. This works and no V11s are alterable. We demanded but were denied access to the server.""You really feel proud to be an African. Well done South Africa!" he added.The statement by Chamisa invited the fury of ZANU PF Secretary for Youth Lewis Matutu who said, " I am here on the ground sir, political parties are viewing results as they come in for collection purposes only because the results from polling stations are already known as has been signed for by agents."Also take note of the fact that no political party prematurely announces election results in SA, neither do they disrespect their IEC and courts or cause any violence through a premature demand for election results against procedures."Matutu also took a diss at Chamisa about the recent high court judgement, "By the way l am told you have been stripped of your fraudulent presidency by the court, is it true?"Matutu is one of the youth leaders that survived a vote of no confidence after being accused of failing to defend President Emmerson Mnangagwa on social media. News / National by Mandla Ndlovu Cherish Muchegwa the woman who was mauled by dogs in March is flying out on Friday to get her treatment in India.Giving an update on the journey Bulawayo South MP Raj Modi said, "Muchegwa is now in Harare. She's resting now. Tomorrow she flies out to India. Journey mercies to her, her husband and her nurse. May the good Lord protect and heal her. And may we all remember her in our prayers."Modi has been very instrumental in sourcing funding for Muchegwa too access treatment in India. The doctors needed around US$10 000 for the treatment.The Indian Embassy waivered visa fees for Muchegwa.On Wednesday Modi said, "Cherish A friend in Mauritius has donated US$2000. Friends in India have pledged to donate. Today I donated $US1000. In total we now have over US$5000. The money is not yet enough but we are making progress." News / National by Mandla Ndlovu MDC Secretary General Douglas Mwonzora is not in hiding an MDC senior official has said. The Harare based official who spoke on position of anonymity told this publication the MDC MP has been going on about in his usual business."We have seen the reports that the SG has gone into hiding but I would like to authoritatively inform you that those rumours are false. He has appeared in public places contrary to the story. The SG was in parliament on Tuesday and he was billed to attend the Standing Committee meeting on Wednesday at the party headquarters."The source said Mwonzora will be in Midlands on Friday where contesting MDC leaders will be unveiling their manifestos."The SG will also be in Gweru on Friday. You will see that the story is fake and created by people who want to cause alarm in the party. We will not have any of that. We are not undeterred."The reports on Thursday had alleged that Mwonzora has allegedly gone into hiding amid reports that party youths are baying for his blood over his links with the High Court ruling that nullified Nelson Chamisa's appointment.The reports say that a group of party youths, popularly known as the Vanguards, have also been seen surrounding party vice President Elias Mudzuri's Milton Park home in Harare, singing derogatory songs. The youths accused Mudzuri of undermining Chamisa, saying Mudzuri sponsored the High Court application by a Gokwe MDC official which resulted in yesterday's ruling. News / National by Staff reporter POLITICAL analysts and opposition parties have questioned First Lady Auxillia Mnangagwa's "philanthropic" work, which has reportedly seen her interfering in government business.In some cases, she has been accused of using State resources, raising fears that Zimbabwe was sliding back to the ex-First Lady Grace Mugabe era, where former President Robert Mugabe's wife had literary captured all State institutions.The analysts cited a recent incident where the First Lady toured the State-run pharmaceutical warehouse, National Pharmaceutical Company (NatPharm), where she was captured on video quizzing officials over stockpiles of undistributed medical drugs at a time most public hospitals were without drugs.She was also recently recorded threatening to confront mobile network operators over tariff hikes at a gathering in Masvingo province.But Auxillia yesterday hit back, saying opposition political parties should not remain in election mode and should stop attacking citizens concerned with the well-being of Zimbabweans, including their supporters."I have been a health ambassador for quite some time and my role is to help the vulnerable in whatever possible way. When I made a visit to NatPharm, I had asked the Minister of Health (Obadiah Moyo) to accompany me so that I could appreciate their operations. It is unfortunate that he was in a meeting. He sent a representative," she said.University of Zimbabwe political science lecturer Eldred Masunungure urged Auxillia to stick to her humanitarian work and stay away from government policy matters."During the first days of Mnangagwa's rule, he promised to keep his family away from State matters and he managed to do so in the run-up to the elections. But now, he might need to reconsider certain things and ensure his wife does not get too much attention and compete with him in State papers," he said."First ladies the world over are known for humanitarian work and giving a human face to the State. They are there to do social work and that is what Auxillia should focus on. She must continue with her humanitarian work and not try to venture into governance issues."United Kingdom-based Zimbabwean economic researcher Brighton Musonza also chipped in, saying the First Lady "needs to slow down"."Her presence on the political scene brings back the trauma we suffered at the hands of Grace Mugabe. She is interfering with public policy and overcrowding the space meant for bureaucrats," he said."I am not sure in what capacity does she tell her audience that she will personally confront telecommunications companies personally. Her threats to confront telecommunications operators will sway away potential investors, particularly those looking to buy TelOne and NetOne. She must restrict herself to charity work and some low level philanthropically events."Opposition MDC spokesperson Jacob Mafume said Auxillia was "actually worse" than Grace Mugabe and exposed Mnangagwa's family leadership skills."Grace Mugabe was known for being a political actor and never at all did she go to a State institution and harass professionals like what we are seeing today. This is very dangerous, and definitely, it will not end well," he said. "It shows that Mnangagwa is just like Mugabe in his last days. He is failing to control his wife. What role does she have on professionals at NatPharm? This is telling, indeed."Mafume said Zimbabwe was fast becoming a Banana Republic because what Auxillia was doing was "unconstitutional and illegal"."In fact, she has no authority whatsoever to be harassing those professionals. That is the job of the board which reports to the minister," he said."In a normal society, the minister does not interact with management, he interacts with the board. What Auxillia is doing shows that these Zanu PF leaders have failed to provide leadership."He charged that she had overstepped her mandate."The Minister of Health and other senior government officials should be ashamed of what is happening," Mafume said.First Lady Auxillia, however, denied harassing professionals."I did not supervise anyone, but engaged them as a mother so that I could understand how they operate, their challenges and how we could solve them as a people," she said."I am not a government employee. I have no powers over ministers, but I just help in my role as the First Lady to raise awareness on health issues. I also take care of their mothers and their supporters."The First Lady, who has managed to secure funding for some hospitals in Hwange and Binga, said her hospital visits were informed by a desire to use her advocacy strengths to mobilise supplies for public hospitals through her philanthropic arm, Angel of Hope Foundation."I don't get any cent from Treasury for all the projects I do. There are many people who support us and not even a single cent comes from government. People should appreciate that through my humanitarian work, I assist people across the political divide. I don't select whether Zanu PF or MDC," she said."In fact, we don't want to see people wearing party regalia at our functions. I am doing my duties as the First Lady, which is social work, helping the needy where possible. I am not into politics."Auxillia insisted that her work was restricted to humanitarian activities and had never dabbled in politics or hijacked any government programmes such that she could be compared with Grace."I have never instructed any minister to do any work or even summoned anyone to my office. I spend much of my time in rural areas interacting with old people, even parents of these MDC officials who are complaining that I am taking over government business. It is wrong to try and compare me with Grace Mugabe," she said.The First Lady last week made an impromptu visit to NatPharm, demanding to see how the group was operating and why it had stocks of medicines in its warehouse, while some rural hospitals did not have drugs.Her visit reportedly forced Moyo to call for an urgent meeting with NatPharm executives, where he read the riot act before he went on to appoint the First Lady as "health ambassador".Besides the visit to NatPharm, the First Lady has been criss-crossing the country, addressing various stakeholders on issues such as inheritance, maternal health and entrepreneurship.At a public event in Gutu, Masvingo, recently, Auxillia said she would engage telecommunications operators to ensure the community was well serviced.Moyo said he had spoked to First Lady Auxillia before her tour of NatPharm."Indeed, we discussed with the First Lady about her familiarization tour of NatPharm. Because I was engaged elsewhere, I dispatched one of my senior staffers at the ministry to accompany her," the Health minister said."In relation to a meeting I had with NatPharm executives, it was a scheduled meeting which was not influenced by the First Lady. She is merely fulfilling her philanthropic work, nothing more nothing less. In any case, she is now our ambassador for health and child care."Information deputy minister Energy Mutodi disagreed with analysts and the opposition, saying the First Lady had the right to be involved in the health sector because she had an organisation whose main agenda was the social well-being of citizens and her actions do not constitute usurping Executive power."Any citizen of Zimbabwe can be appointed an ambassador for any organisation, provided that such an individual accepts the invitation. We see no problem with that and her presence and participation in such events, as I have described, does not constitute any interference with government operations," he said.Secretary for Information, Ndavaningi Mangwana, also defended the First Lady's role, claiming it was synonymous with the roles performed by all first ladies across the globe."These are people that use their prominence to influence matters of public importance as well as highlight certain causes, which are normally marginalised from public discourse," he said."In the case of Amai Mnangagwa, health is an issue which is close to her heart. That's why she has just been made health ambassador."Mangwana said of Auxillia's visit to NatPharm, she had the constitutional right to access information.He said it was an insult to compare Auxillia to Grace, saying the former's visibility was issues-led as opposed to the former First Lady, who he said wanted power and disparaged her husband's political allies. News / National by Staff reporter ZIMBABWEANS cannot afford to wait for the 2023 general elections to correct the socio-economic dysfunction allegedly caused by President Emmerson Mnangagwa's disputed election, MDC leader Nelson Chamisa has said.Chamisa, who takes his party to a crunch congress set for May 24 to 26, said the MDC would come out with a slew of strategies to face Zanu PF and ensure that the economics, politics and reform agenda are set right ahead of fresh general elections."Why wait for five years. We must begin the journey with the July 2018 disputed elections so that issues of legitimacy are dealt with, issues of parliamentary reforms are dealt with, (and that there is) political dialogue. If there is no political dialogue, we say this and we will say it again, we are going to resort to constitutional avenues and platforms around our rights to express ourselves until what we believe to be the legitimate request is acceded," he said.The MDC said it was prepared to meet Zanu PF and its government head-on to ensure that the country's problems are resolved.Zanu PF and Mnangagwa have continued to ignore the opposition leader and, instead, are pressing ahead with his government's economic blueprint, the Transitional Stabilisation Programme.Mnangagwa initiated his own political dialogue with 17 fringe political parties, some of them with no following, and the dialogue will be officially launched on May 17 without Chamisa.This has not scared the MDC, which says Zanu PF is not Zimbabwe and cannot be allowed to dictate the destiny of the country with their alleged stubbornness."Zanu PF is not Zimbabwe; that is why democracy is there; that is why constitutions are there; that is why people are there because they have to deal with stubborn elements like Zanu PF. They may choose to be stubborn, but we will tame their stubbornness," he said.Chamisa said after congress, the fight against Zanu PF would be broadened and street protests might become the centre stage to resolve the enduring national crisis.Today, Chamisa is expected in Mutasa, Manicaland province, to address a campaign rally for the Mutasa Rural District Council ward 10 by-election set for this weekend.His visit comes after a high-powered Zanu PF delegation visited Mutasa last weekend to campaign for their candidate, Magret Tindika.Meanwhile, MDC members fighting to lead the youth assembly have promised to bring radicalism and vibrancy into the wing in the fight against Mnangagwa, with one of them pushing for an early harmonised election, claiming that the current administration has failed to arrest the worsening situation.Zimbabwe is currently battling an economic turbulence that has seen prices of basic commodities shooting beyond the reach of many. The country is due for the next general elections in 2023. News / National by Staff Reporter An argument over a thesis turned fatal as a student allegedly killed his professor by slashing her throat.The incident happened Monday afternoon, May 2, at the North Sumatra Muhammadiyah University (UMSU) in Indonesia.The professor, Dr Hj Nurain Lubis, was a 57-year-old lecturer in the Faculty of Education, in the Guidance and Counseling department.Indonesian reports said Lubis and her student, Rormardo Sah Siregar, 21, were having a conversation about Siregar's thesis, which led to the argument.Lubis then headed for the bathroom.She was attacked in front of the bathroom on campus at what is known as Building B, as she left the toilet.Said to have been offended by their conversation, the student slashed Lubis' neck before she reportedly screamed and collapsed on the floor."She was immediately taken to the hospital with her injuries. We do not know why he did it," a student is quoted by local reports.Siregar allegedly hid in the bathroom as an angry mob formed outside. He stayed inside until local police came to take him.The student is currently under investigation.In a statement, the university said it would set two days of mourning on Tuesday and Wednesday, over Lubis' passing."The director and the entire academic community of UMSU expresses deep sorrow over this tragedy. As a form of grief, all the activities of lecturing and administration from campus will be suspended for two days to give time to mourning," it said.UMSU said it continues to cooperate with the police to prevent similar incidents from occurring.Students also expressed their sadness over Lubis' death. Facebook posts called her a motherly figure on campus.Lubis' younger brother, Muhammad Zein Lubis, said his sister had 3 sons and a daughter, and two grandchildren. She was the 4th of 9 siblings."My family cannot believe something like this could happen. My sister was a good person, friendly and faithful," the younger Lubis told media.He also blamed the college for his sister's death, and said there should be tighter security in campus to prevent future incidents."My family hopes the perpetrator will be punished by law, and given the harshest punishment," he said. - 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." Cannabis leaves of a plant on a dark background Canadian cannabis stocks have soared over the last year to see industry leader and member of the S&P/TSX 60 Index Canopy Growth (TSX:WEED)(NYSE:CGC) up by a whopping 118%. The money continues to flow into the industry. There are claims that many industry players are heavily overvalued, and this has sparked a rush among hedge funds and other speculative traders to short some of Canadas top marijuana players. Significant short interest The short interest in Canopy has grown considerably in recent months. It is ranked as the sixth most-shorted stock on the TSX with 17% of its total share float being sold short. There have also been calls by controversial short-seller Andrew Left of Citron Research to short Canopy, which has been a costly exercise for him because it has gained 42% since he made that announcement in November 2018. The big question for investors is, are household names like Canopy heavily overvalued and will they collapse in coming months? There are signs that the market value of many big-name Canadian cannabis stocks is heavily inflated, despite their massive spending to expand their operations internationally. Canopy is trading at a massive 143 times the value of its sales, and the leading marijuana cultivator has yet to report an annual profit, meaning that it has a negative price-to-earnings ratio. That nose-bleed ratio is extremely worrying; unless Canopy can exponentially boost sales revenue, it appears heavily overvalued. Canopy has been aggressively growing sales, reporting fiscal third-quarter 2018 net revenue of $83 million, which was 3.5 times greater than the previous quarter and almost four times higher than a year earlier. On a trailing 12-month basis that totals $187 million and if the latest quarterly net revenue is annualized, that points to annual sales being worth roughly $332 million. Assuming a reasonable price-to-sales ratio for a marijuana company of around two, then using that final projected net revenue figure, Canopy would have a market cap of around $664 million. This is 33 times less than its current value, indicating that Canopys stock could be heavily inflated. Story continues Growing market for cannabis Domestic and global demand for legal marijuana products are expected to soar exponentially in coming years, which helps to support Canopys lofty valuation. Analysts from Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce anticipate that Canadians will be using 800,000 kgs of marijuana annually by 2020, valuing the industry at around $7 billion. Grand View Research believes that the global legal marijuana market will be worth US$146 billion by 2025 compared to US$18 billion currently, which represents a 35% compound annual growth rate (CAGR). Barclays made a similar forecast estimating that the legal global marijuana market, which it predicted was worth around US$14 billion for 2018, will have a US$272 billion value by 2028, again depicting 35% CAGR. If Canopy was able to grow sales at the same clip, then by 2020 net revenue for that year would $341 million. When using the earlier assumptions, that gives it a market cap of $682 million, or 33 times less than its current value of $22.2 billion. While those are particularly rough figures using a variety of ever-changing assumptions, they demonstrate that Canopy could be heavily overvalued. A key concern voiced by short sellers is that global demand for cannabis may not expand as significantly as Canopy and other industry participants anticipate. Only Canada and Uruguay have legalized the recreational consumption of marijuana meaning that the market is quite constricted. The significant social stigma still attached to its recreational use means that there is unlikely to be a flood of jurisdictions globally legalizing its use. While the medical benefits of cannabis are widely recognized, it is doubtful that there will be any enormous expansion in the volume of clinical applications. There is also significant competition among marijuana producers, as highlighted by the North American Marijuana Index, which has 47 constituents. Competition will keep growing because the regulatory and other barriers to entry are not particularly steep, meaning that the industry doesnt possess a wide economic moat. Pulling it all together for investors With signs that valuations for the legal marijuana industry are at nosebleeds levels, there is certainly some justification for shorting Canopy. However, it has demonstrated that it can grow revenue at a decent clip, and it finished 2018 with over $4 billion in cash. That, when combined with its aggressive acquisition strategy, which gives it a rapidly growing global presence, and the considerable hype surrounding cannabis stocks, it is unlikely that Canopys price will collapse any time soon. More reading Fool contributor Matt Smith has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fools purpose is to help the world invest, better. Click here now for your free subscription to Take Stock, The Motley Fool Canadas free investing newsletter. Packed with stock ideas and investing advice, it is essential reading for anyone looking to build and grow their wealth in the years ahead. Motley Fool Canada 2019 Visit Lumbini Year campaign announced, targets 2.5 million tourists The Province 5 government on Wednesday announced the launch of Visit Lumbini Year on May 18 with an aim of attracting 2.5 million tourists to the birthplace of Buddha. President Bidhya Devi Bhandari will inaugurate the campaign which is being held for the second time in Lumbini after 2012. A group of consumer advocates is warning against additional regulations for home share services after the city of Windsor council agreed to move forward with adding regulations. David Clement, with Consumer Choice Canada, said adding regulations can make home sharing services more expensive. "When local governments go down this road, they almost always add in a licensing fee," said Clement. "That licensing fee is usually just a cash grab." Regulations passed in Toronto last year are under appeal by Airbnb owners in the city, while the city of Vancouver is calling regulations put in place there a success. Redundant regulations According to Clement, more often than not, the regulations that are passed are redundant. East Windsor resident Kipp Baker said the home share in his neighbourhood leaves their garbage cans out all week long. "Garbage pails blowing down the street," is Baker's main concern. "They put their garbage out on a Sunday or Monday but pickup isn't until Thursday." Baker is worried about skunks and raccoons getting into the garbage and making a mess, especially as it gets warmer outside. According to Baker, the home share near him is mostly rented on weekends, but the homeowner doesn't live on site. "The owners live in Vancouver, but I know bylaw officers are leaving paperwork in the mailbox," said Baker, who has seen a City of Windsor bylaw vehicle out front "at least three times." Bill Tetler, with Windsor's bylaw enforcement, said they don't cover home share services. "We could have been there for a wide range of issues," said Tetler. In Windsor, garbage and garbage pails can only be put out for collection after 7 p.m. the night before collection. The empty bins have to be brought back off the curb by 8 p.m. the day of collection. Doesn't matter if homeowner lives off-site According to Tetler, it doesn't matter if the house is used for home share purposes, or if the homeowner lives off site there's a set fine for leaving garbage can out when they aren't supposed to be out. Story continues "The simple solution is applying whatever fines exist, or applying the bylaws as they are written, to whomever the homeowner is," said Clement. "There has to be a way to communicate with those folks without them being on site." Tetler said bylaw officers, in the event of an absent homeowner, would leave warnings and tickets on the door or in the mailbox. If it got to an extreme point, bylaw enforcement could call the homeowner to appear in court. Someone would have to file a complaint for bylaw officers to go in the first place. Home share platforms 'regulate themselves' When it comes to safety measures, Clement said platforms regulate themselves, and additional government regulations on top of that "just make the process more burdensome for hosts." "There is an incentive practice built into the rating schemes for these services," said Clement. "There's a shift towards encouraging best practices. The system is set up to discourage [behaving improperly]." Baker said there have been loud parties and crowded street parking because of the home share in his neighbourhood but even though he wants regulations in place, he doesn't know what could be done. "It should be simple," said Baker, pointing to bylaw enforcement taking more initiative something the department in Windsor doesn't have the resources to do. Clement said one solution might be for home sharing services to add a "comments from neighbours" section but that really people should just go knock on the front door. "I'd encourage people to talk to their neighbours," said Clement. "Have a civil discussion about what is and isn't working." Katherine Donaldson, corporate policy coordinator for the city of Windsor said Windsor would likely not move forward with regulations until a decision was made from the Toronto appeal. "Until we get that precedent from the Toronto case, the Toronto appeal, we aren't moving forward with any of the other considerations until we get that legal framework." A man who fled to Vietnam to avoid going on trial has been found guilty of first-degree murder in the swarming death of a Calgary teenager who spoke out after hearing a racist comment directed at a nightclub employee. Nathan Gervais, 24, who was on trial for murder in the 2013 death of Lukas Strasser-Hird, laughed as Court of Queen's Bench Justice William Tilleman delivered his decision Wednesday morning. Gervais then stormed out of the courtroom, escorted by sheriffs, but on his way from the prisoners' box to the cells, he flung open the door, causing a loud bang. "See you later, shithead," the victim's father, Dale Hird, called out as Gervais could be heard slamming around outside the court. The conviction comes one day before what would have been Strasser-Hird's 24th birthday. "We're going to just go to his grave site and bring some of his favourite things, maybe just bottled root beer," said Hird. "Sing Happy Birthday and try to remember some good things, because today was a good day for Lukas." Facebook/Calgary Police Service Begged for his life While Tilleman did not find that Gervais planned to kill Strasser-Hird, he did find the victim was forcibly confined during the two-part attack, which is another path to a first-degree murder conviction. In 2013, Strasser-Hird was an 18-year-old student, just back from a year in South America. At the Vinyl nightclub, he overheard someone call the bouncer a "dirty spic" and confronted the group of young men, including Gervais, telling them not to be racist. Outside the bar, Strasser-Hird was surrounded and shoved around until a bouncer grabbed the teenager and brought him back inside. But shortly after, staff at the night club then led Strasser-Hird out the back door, where a group of angry men were waiting. Strasser-Hird begged for his life as he was kicked, punched and stabbed. He screamed in agony as he yelled at his killers, "Stop, you're killing me." But the attack continued. Story continues "The accused took advantage of the opportunity of the soon-to-be closing in group attacking to inflict the fatal wounds," wrote Tilleman in his decision, adding that Strasser-Hird was "caught in a human net with nowhere to escape." Gervais fled Canada The Crown argued it was Gervais who retrieved a knife from his car and stabbed the victim three times. After the attack, Gervais told six people he had stabbed Strasser-Hird. Tilleman accepted this evidence. "The accused both retrieved the knife from his car and used it to stab the deceased," said the judge. When it was over, bystanders tried to help Strasser-Hird, calling 911 and working to stop the bleeding. He was taken to hospital, where family members rushed to his side to say their goodbyes. In 2016, just before Gervais was to go on trial alongside four others, he fled Canada. Other killers appealed Franz Cabrera and Assmar Shlah were ultimately found guilty of second-degree murder, while Joch Pouk was found guilty of manslaughter. A fourth man was acquitted. In February 2018, Gervais was arrested in Vietnam and returned to Calgary to face his murder charge. A first-degree murder conviction comes with an automatic life sentence with no chance of parole for at least 25 years. A sentencing hearing will take place on May 24. This is far from the end of the road for Strasser-Hird's family. Cabrera and Shlah have both appealed their convictions and are waiting a decision from the Alberta Court of Appeal. And although defence lawyer Alain Hepner did not comment on whether he planned to appeal Tilleman's decision, most first-degree murder convictions are taken to the province's highest court. "It has been a very long road hopefully this nightmare will end for this family soon," said prosecutor Ken McCaffrey. When a Montreal medical team pulled off the country's first face transplant last spring, it was a historic moment for Canadian medicine, but the patient's recovery remained far from certain. Maurice Desjardins's life since then has been full of setbacks, but he has so far avoided the worst-case scenario his body's rejection of the graft. As Radio-Canada's current affairs program Decouverte reported last year, Desjardins was disfigured in a 2011 hunting accident. He was left with half of a face, as well as chronic pain and severe damage to the nerves, muscles and bones in his face. Everything changed last spring, when surgeon Dr. Daniel Borsuk and his team performed the high-risk procedure at Montreal's Maisonneuve-Rosemont Hospital. They successfully grafted a donor's jaw, teeth, nose and cartilage onto Desjardins's face all in one piece. Charles Dagenais/Radio-Canada "I was in control during the graft, but afterwards, during the recovery time, I was no longer in control of anything," Borsuk told Decouverte recently. He said it's been a stressful and challenging year for Desjardins. Eating is one of many tasks that remain difficult for Desjardins, who still relies on a feeding tube. Anything he can eat has to be ground up first. Since the operation, he's lost 65 pounds. Much of his care rests on the shoulders of his wife, Gaetane, who helps administer the 15 or so daily medications, and drives Desjardins back and forth between their home in Notre-Dame-de-la-Sallette and checkups two hours away in Montreal. 'When I see Maurice, I am relaxed. It's when I'm not with him, that's when I'm stressed.' - Dr. Daniel Borsuk "I'm always afraid of making a mistake. There are so many different types of medication. I have to pay close attention to what I'm doing," she told Decouverte. "It's really a 24/7 job." It all became too much for Gaetane to juggle, so she gave up her job to take care of her husband full-time. That was a financial blow to the couple. Story continues Borsuk said he didn't realize there was a lack of financial support for transplant patients. "I think that we have a great public [health care] system and I think it works really well, but the problem with some of these transplant patients is most of them don't live near a transplant centre," he said. Jerome Voyer-Poirier/Radio-Canada "They have to leave their homes, get in their car, pay for parking, pay for gas, pay for medication, which aren't always covered. And so it ends up being a quite expensive year for these patients." Special patient-doctor bond During their shared journey, Dr. Borsuk and his patient have grown close. "There have been a lot of ups and downs. A lot of waves," Desjardins said in a recent interview with Decouverte. Borsuk said that every success and obstacle is felt by both of them. During checkups, it's normal for them to clasp hands or even hug. "I am close to my patients, but with him, it's another level," said Borsuk. "Maybe it's a bit too close? But that's on me." The surgeon admitted that it can be difficult to manage relationships with patients like Desjardins, whose day-to-day well-being is often on his mind. Charles Dagenais/Radio-Canada "When I see Maurice, I am relaxed," Borsuk said. "It's when I'm not with him, that's when I'm stressed." Bout of infections, low morale The price of his new face is that Desjardins must take powerful immunosuppressants for the rest of his life. The medication is a double-edged sword: while it helps prevent his body from rejecting the transplant, it also leaves him vulnerable to even the slightest infections. "He caught everything that he could catch," Gaetane said. Three major infections sent Desjardins to hospital repeatedly over the course of his recovery. He spent a total of three months in hospital. It all came to a head in March, when he fell ill with an infection of the digestive system known as diverticulitis. A pocket of his intestine became infected, and then ruptured. 'He caught everything that he could catch.' - Gaetane Desjardins He underwent a surgery so that doctors could attach a temporary colostomy bag, an external pouch that will collect his body's waste while his intestine heals. The hospitalizations, plus the incessant checkups, have taken a toll on Desjardins and his wife. For a few months, he lost his morale and stopped bothering with his exercises, which are essential for him to regain complete control of his face and his jaw. "You know, I can't blame him," Dr. Borsuk said. "It's hard to focus on doing your exercises when you have things that are physically hurting you." April 2019 was the first time in a year that Desjardins had gone two weeks without an infection. "I have been happy for two weeks, because I've been out of the hospital for two weeks," he said at the time. But the break from his exercises means Desjardins can no longer close his mouth as fully as he could before, and his speech is limited. It's difficult for him to express himself. When Desjardins speaks, Gaetane will often "translate" for the benefit of other people, because his speech can be difficult to understand. Charles Dagenais/Radio-Canada Borsuk said he's confident that his patient will work hard to regain control of his jaw. "I know he'll get it back," he said. "It's like when you have a cast on your wrist: If you don't move your wrist for a month, it's going to be stiff." Grateful to donor's family Dr. Suzon Collette, who is responsible for monitoring Desjardins's recovery, said what he's gone through in this past year is typical for a transplant patient. "There are good times, months where everything is going well, and then there are steps back, defeats, unexpected things," she said. Despite the obstacles, Collette said at the end of the day, the patients find a way to make it through. One thing Desjardins has not struggled with is accepting his new physical identity. The medical team had been afraid that he might be upset or disturbed when he saw the reflection of a stranger in the mirror. 'Now he finds himself handsome, and it's true. He is.' - Gaetane Desjardins But Desjardins said that wasn't difficult for him. More than anything, he's just thankful. "It's going very well. I am so grateful to the donor's family," he said. Gaetane said she likes the way her husband looks. She said that before the accident, he never thought much about his face. "Now, he finds himself handsome, and it's true. He is," she said. Despite all the post-surgery pain and difficulty, Desjardins said he has no regrets about the procedure. "It was worth it," he said recently, while sitting on his couch at home, holding hands with his wife. Gaetane agreed, smiling at her husband. Virgilio Martinez, the chef and owner of Central Restaurante in Peru, was reportedly detained for over five hours at the Los Angeles International Airport after he brought 40 piranhas in his luggage. According to the Los Angeles Times, Martinez, who was featured in the third season of Netflixs Chefs Table, was traveling to Los Angeles last week to cook dinners at two L.A. restaurants as part of the Times month-long Food Bowl festival. I was extremely obsessed about bringing piranhas because we serve piranhas in the Amazon at Central, so I said, Guys, why not take a risk to bring piranhas to L.A.? Martinez told the Times. You probably have preconceived notions about piranhas because of movies but for me, piranhas, we go fish them. As he was going through customs, officials opened his bag full of piranhas and they went into a panic, Martinez said. RELATED: Inside the 2019 James Beard Awards: See All the Stars, Chefs, and Big Winners! Martinez then responded with a joke when the officials asked what was inside of the bag, saying, Flesh and bones. He was taken to a private interrogation room, according to the Times, where he stayed for five hours while he explained to officials that he was bringing the piranhas to the United States for culinary purposes. I told him that it was from my heart and showed him a few photos, Martinez told the Times. I took my book and said, Look, this is what I want to do with the piranhas. And he finally said, Oh, wow, go ahead. A representative for LAX did not immediately respond to PEOPLEs request for comment. RELATED: Chrissy Teigen and David Chang Are Teaming Up to Create Food Shows for Hulu Story continues Regardless of the five-hour delay, Martinez did eventually put the 40 piranhas to good use. For one of his Food Bowl events, he used the piranha meat to make a salad, and for another he served dried piranha skins inside the piranha heads. Martinez joked to the Times: I told the people at the dinner that I spent five hours for you, so you better enjoy it. PARIS (Reuters) - French President Emmanuel Macron said he wanted strong, competent officials to lead European institutions in the next five years, regardless of their nationality, but stuck to his opinion that EU leaders, not parliament, should pick them. With European parliament elections coming up later this month, EU leaders have started horse-trading behind the scenes over which officials, and from which countries, should lead EU institutions including its executive, the European Commission. "I am not obsessed with nationality issues," Macron told a press conference in Romania. "We must avoid a situation whereby compromises end up with the least good candidate," he said. "We must choose the best possible candidates, for a strong and ambitious European project," Macron said, adding that he did not feel bound by the "Spitzenkandidaten" system whereby parties in the EU parliament would pick the head of the European Commission, and not EU leaders, as was done in the past. (Reporting by Michel Rose; editing by John Irish) Three men who illegally hunted a mountain lion in Yellowstone National Park have been sentenced in federal court. Austin Peterson and Trey Juhnke, both 20, and Corbin Simmons, 19, violated the Lacey Act on Dec. 12 when they shot and killed a male mountain lion, according a news release from the park. The release, citing court documents, says the trio crossed a marked boundary in order to hunt their prey, and that all three admitted to shooting the animal and carrying its carcass back to their car. Peterson was sentenced Friday to three years of unsupervised probation, barring him from hunting, fishing and trapping. He was also ordered to pay $1,700 in restitution and fees, according to the release. RELATED VIDEO: Man Who Survived Mountain Lion Attack By Killing It With His Bare Hands Comes Forward Juhnke and Simmons, meanwhile, were sentenced to unsupervised probation in April, and both were ordered to pay $1,667 in restitution, according to The Casper Star-Tribune. All three pleaded guilty at prior court hearings earlier this year to violating the Lacey Act, according to the outlet, which prohibits hunting wildlife in Yellowstone. RELATED: Colorado Jogger Suffers Serious Injuries After He Fights Off and Kills Mountain Lion I would like to express a sincere thank you to Montana Fish, Wildlife, and Parks, law enforcement officers at Yellowstone National Park, the National Park Service Investigative Services Branch, and the US Attorneys Office District of Wyoming for being involved in this case, Yellowstone National Park Chief Ranger Pete Webster said in a statement. Their thorough work spotlighted this egregious act and the consequences incurred for hunting illegally in Yellowstone National Park. According to the release, biologists estimate that 20-31 adult mountain lions live in the parks northern range, where the big cat in this case was killed. Photo credit: Getty Images As Memorial Day approaches, red poppies begin to make their annual appearance: You might see them pinned on lapels or hanging from rearview mirrors. These poppies, often made of fabric or crepe paper, symbolize more than a fundraising effort to support our countrys veterans: They honor and memorialize fallen soldiers. The red poppy officially became the national emblem of remembrance in 1920 but the resilient little flower's roots run deep, all the way back to the battlefields of World War I, where it grew in the unlikeliest of places. Photo credit: Getty Images Red poppies symbolize resilience Despite their beautiful flowers, poppies are technically classified as weeds. Theyre resilient little plants, growing in even the most inhospitable landscapes such as the desolate battlefields of Belgium. Even though the landscapes were left devastated, red poppies would spring from the wreckage come spring, like tiny beacons of hope. According to the History Channel, Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae was particularly moved by the red flowers he saw popping up all over the European battlefields after the human conflicts had quieted. He noticed a cluster of poppies in Flanders Field in Belgium that spring, where he was serving as a brigade surgeon for an Allied artillery unit. Soon after, a huge battle tore through the area, killing 87,000 allied soldiers, including one of McCraes closest friends. Overcome with sorrow, he wrote the poem In Flanders Field to channel his grief. Told from the perspective of the fallen soldiers buried beneath the poppies, it honored the troops who died: In Flanders Fields by John McCrae In Flanders fields the poppies blow Between the crosses, row on row, That mark our place; and in the sky The larks, still bravely singing, fly Scarce heard amid the guns below. We are the Dead. Short days ago We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow, Loved and were loved, and now we lie In Flanders fields. Take up our quarrel with the foe: To you from failing hands we throw The torch; be yours to hold it high. If ye break faith with us who die We shall not sleep, though poppies grow In Flanders fields. Story continues Photo credit: Getty Images In the U.S., a professor made them a memorial McCraes poem, published in Londons Punch magazine in December 1915, became an instant success. It was read at countless memorial services, used in efforts to recruit soldiers and reprinted in countless publications, including Ladies Home Journal. This is where Moina Michael, a professor at the University of Georgia, first came across In Flanders Field. Unable to get it out of her mind, she vowed to always wear a red poppy in remembrance of those who were lost at Flanders Field. Michael found her first fabric poppies at a department store, where she bought a handful for herself and her colleagues. After the war had ended, she decided to craft and sell red silk poppies to raise money for the returning veterans. She also lobbied to make the red poppy a national memorial symbol. In 1920, she convinced Georgias chapter of the American Legion to adopt the poppy. Soon after, the National American Legion followed suit and the little red flower officially became the U.S. national emblem of remembrance on September 27, 1920. Photo credit: Getty Images When to wear them depends on where you live Around the world, the poppy has become a symbol of the soldiers lost during World War I. But the timing differs slightly between the nations who recognize it. In the United Kingdom, Canada, France, Belgium, Australia and New Zealand, observers wear the red flowers on Nov. 11 to commemorate the anniversary of the 1918 armistice, called Remembrance Day. The holiday has expanded to remember the lost soldiers from other conflicts since WWI as well, and often also includes a moment of silence to recall the memories of those who are no longer with us, Britannica explains. It may also feature memorial services, speeches by public officials, and other solemn recognitions, at which you'll often see the red flowers grace the lapels of participants. Purchase a poppy and help veterans' families In the United States, however, the tradition has unfolded differently. We don't typically wear poppies on Veterans Day, since that day is set aside to honor all living veterans. Instead, we don the red poppy on Memorial Day to honor the men and women who have died fighting for our country. But don't wait until May 28 to pin your poppy to your chest. National Poppy Day falls on the Friday before Memorial Day each year, when you can support veterans' services in addition to remembering the lost. As part of the VFW's Buddy Poppy program, volunteers hand out red poppies in exchange for donations to support the country's veterans and their families. Disabled and otherwise needy veterans assemble the flowers, and receive financial compensation for their efforts. The VFW Buddy Poppy program also provides financial aid for state and national veterans' rehabilitation and service programs, as well as partially supporting the VFW National Home For Children. So this year, spare a thought for those we've lost while helping out veterans' families by adding a poppy pinned to your Memorial Day attire. You Might Also Like Photo credit: Chris Jackson - Getty Images From Town & Country Getty's royal photographer Chris Jackson has been documenting Prince Harry's work with the Invictus Games for years. But this morning's engagement in the Netherlands, which marked the Duke of Sussex's official return to work following the birth of his son Archie, was different, if only because Prince Harry is now a father. "Prince Harry seemed to be on fantastic form today, and was certainly all smiles as he met the competitors at the event in the Hague," Jackson tells Town & Country via email about the event, which officially launched the 2020 Invictus Games. Photo credit: Chris Jackson - Getty Images For those unfamiliar, the Invictus Games is an international adaptive sport competition for wounded servicemen, women, and veterans, which Prince Harry founded in 2014. Today's events marked the one-year countdown to the 2020 games, which will take place in the Hague. "It was fantastic to be documenting an Invictus event again today," Jackson continued. "After the incredibly successful Invictus Sydney I think everyone is massively looking forward to Invictus in the Hague in 2020. Its an event that means so much to the Duke of Sussex." It's certainly a bit unusual for a new dad to travel internationally so soon after the birth of his first child, but Harry was committed to being in the Netherlands today, supporting a project he is clearly so passionate about. "Whilst a huge team of people work hard to make Invictus what it is today Prince Harry remains the 'spiritual figurehead' of this event he originally conceived," Jackson explains. "The passion, and blood, sweat, and tears that goes into the organization of Invictus is something Im sure the Prince respects hugely, so he would have understood the importance of his role in proceedings." Jackson captured numerous photos today, but a few stand out in his mind. "I love the shots of the new Dad riding a bike in the spring sunshine between engagements, the perfect way to view the venue," he says. "Bikes have always been the best way to get around Invictus events and this is certainly the land of pedal-power so it was great to see these two things coming together." Story continues Photo credit: Chris Jackson - Getty Images Jackson was also fond of the moment Prince Harry received a onesie (which is also known as a baby grow in the U.K.) as a gift for his baby. "I loved the moment the Prince was presented with a baby grow for Archie-a lighthearted moment and great photo!" he says. Photo credit: Chris Jackson - Getty Images Jackson recently became a father himself. His wife Natasha Archer, who serves as the Duchess of Cambridge's stylist and personal assistant, gave birth to their son Theo just a few months ago, so he can relate to what Harry is going through as a new father. "Speaking from first hand experience, being a new dad is literally the most exhilarating and tiring thing you can experience so it was fantastic to see the excitement that enveloped the nation (and world) around the birth of baby Archie," Jackson says. "A royal baby is always a huge cause for celebration and having photographed Prince Harry for many years Im excited to be documenting a new chapter of his life." ('You Might Also Like',) Water samples collected from Kathmandus cholera-hit area for lab test Technicians deployed from National Public Health Laboratory under the Department of Health Services on Wednesday collected three samples of drinking water from Tanchal of Kathmandu Metropolitan City-16, after a case of cholera was detected in the area. From December 19th through December 26th we will be granting free access as a gift to our readers presented by Heyde Center for the Arts The city of Chippewa Falls wont charge Chippewa Falls Main Street for street use permits for four Summer Cruise In Car Shows that the organization hosts in the citys downtown, reversing a recommendation from a city committee. The Board of Public Works recommended a $300 fee per event at its April 22 meeting and sent it to the City Council for final approval. The car show dates are May 18, June 15, July 20 and August 10 (Pure Water Days). City engineer Rick Rubenzer said the cost was determined by looking at the hours spent by street department staff in setting up traffic controls and tearing down for the event. The ordinance says charge for city services, Rubenzer said. The question is, where do you draw the line when city services are involved? Council members asked Rubenzer about the proposed charge, as the city hasnt billed Main Street in the past for the car shows. Councilman Paul Nadreau noted the goal is to promote tourism in the city. This is a community event, said Council President Rob Kiefer. However, the council opted to vote unanimously to remove the recommended $300 street use permit fee. In other news, David Raihle, vice president of the Chippewa County Historical Society, gave an update on the proposed new museum at 12 Bridgewater Ave. The goal, if funding comes together, is to begin construction this fall or in spring 2020, Raihle said. The museum has raised about $2.1 million of its $3 million goal, he said. We feel this is an asset to the city and want to make sure the city is in support of it, Raihle said. Raihle asked the city to vacate an alley behind the building. We would be responsible for all the costs of removing all the asphalt, Raihle said. A former Dairy Queen on that site was torn down in April 2016 after the CCHS purchased the site. The organization has been operating out of a building at 123 Allen St. on the citys East Hill for the past 25 years. It has typically only been open on Tuesdays. However, that location hasnt suited the groups needs, and it lacks wheelchair and handicap accessibility. The new location would be the home of the Chippewa County Genealogical Society as well. The Council also unanimously approved a developers agreement with 2 Rivers Real Estate, which is planning to construct five apartment buildings, each with eight units, on a 5.85-acre parcel in the northeast corner of Chippewa Falls. According to the developers agreement, at least two buildings will be constructed this year, with the rest by 2021. This area of the city is known as the Wissota Green neighborhood. The developers agreement calls it the Wissota Shores III property. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 1 With 764 reported measles cases in more than 20 states this year, Eau Claire city-county public health director Elizabeth Giese is endorsing proposed legislation that would eliminate the personal conviction waiver from the states vaccination requirement. I am concerned about measles coming to Wisconsin. It is all around us, Giese said. Measles was considered wiped out in the United States in 2000. We did not, as public health officials, think wed see this again, she said. It is just such a communicable disease. Our best protection is vaccination, because it works. There is a long history of science showing the safety of it. State Rep. Gordon Hintz, D-Oshkosh, announced last week he is re-introducing the bill to eliminate the waiver. This legislation is about preserving public health in Wisconsin, Hintz said in a press release announcing the proposed measure. It is about protecting our children. With outbreaks nationwide and in our neighboring states, it is only a matter of time before our dropping immunization rates result in a measles, or other infectious disease outbreak somewhere in Wisconsin. Rep. Jodi Emerson, D-Eau Claire, said she supports the proposal. She said people tend to forget how seriously these diseases impacted society decades ago. I was so happy to sign on as co-sponsor to this bill, Emerson said. There are a significant number of states that dont have these exemptions. This is something we can do to protect public safety, by closing this loophole. We need to get as many people as immunized as possible. State Sen. Jeff Smith, D-town of Brunswick, said the best comparison is to think of someone who would dump harmful chemicals into an aquifer that everyone drinks from, making them sick. He also has signed on to be a co-sponsor. This (bill) for me is a no-brainer, Smith said. Its a public health issue; its been highlighted in the headlines for awhile. State Sen. Kathy Bernier, R-Lake Hallie, said she loosely supports the idea but wants to read the language of the bill before she would endorse it. Vaccinations have proven to save lives and prevent extraordinary illnesses, Bernier said. I advocate for immunizations. However, Bernier cautioned that the bill should not extend to areas like flu shots, and the bill should make it clear that employers cannot force their employees to get immunized against their will. Rep. Rob Summerfield, R-Bloomer, said he has been researching what other states have been doing and examining some of the false statements that are out there, in trying to determine what should be the best policy for Wisconsin. This has really popped up in the last two months, Summerfield said. There havent been any confirmed measles cases in Wisconsin in 2018 or so far this year, Giese said. Currently, about 90% of children in schools across Eau Claire County are fully vaccinated, Giese said. The goal is 95% federally and in Wisconsin, so we have a way to go, she said. In all Eau Claire County schools public and private there are 885 children who havent received all vaccinations. According to the Wisconsin Department of Health Services website, 84.7% of children have received the measles-mumps-rubella vaccination by age 24 months; that is down from 85.7% in 2017. About 92.5% of all students in the state are vaccinated, and another 4.9% sign waivers for one of three reasons: medical, personal conviction, or religious reasons. Hintzs bill would still allow for medical and religious reasons for opting out. There has to be an actual health reason, Giese said. It may be certain allergies, or they may be on chemotherapy. Eau Claire County also has 342 students in schools who are considered behind on their vaccinations. They arent fully vaccinated, but they are working on it, Giese explained. The state university system doesnt require students to be vaccinated to gain entrance into schools. Sandi Scott, UW-Stout dean of students said they strongly encourage students to be up to date with their immunizations prior to coming to Stout. Scott said the universitys heath center has access to Wisconsin and Minnesota data bases, so they could confirm if an individual student has received a vaccine, but cannot run a report on all students at Stout. Giese hadnt considered making it a requirement to be vaccinated to go to a state college. I think full vaccination of our population is a good thing, she said. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Former U.S. Sen. Russ Feingold plans to promote global biodiversity by persuading countries to commit to protecting more of their land and water by the year 2030. Feingold, a Democrat, told the Wisconsin State Journal he will work with the Campaign for Nature, a $1 billion effort to back global conservation efforts, to persuade international leaders to promote conservation and thwart mass extinction. Feingold, who has served as special envoy to the Great Lakes region of Africa which includes Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi and some of the Democratic Republic of Congo will in his new role work with African leaders who have an interest in expanding protected areas of land and water. Theres a feeling of urgency, Feingold said, adding that threats to biodiversity can be as troubling as those of climate change. The Campaign for Nature seeks to help communities, indigenous peoples and nations conserve 30% of the planet in its natural state by 2030. In 2020, international groups will meet in China at the Convention on Biological Diversity to set the new targets. Current biodiversity goals are to protect 17% of each countrys terrestrial area and 10% of each countrys ocean waters. Feingold said the campaign hopes more countries will sign onto the 30% target. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 At the 2018 IPCPR Trade Show, Drew Estate expanded its 4 x 32 tin series. As a part of that expansion, it would include 4 x 32 versions of three of Joya de Nicaraguas popular brands Joya Red, Joya Black, and the Joya de Nicaragua Antano 1970. Today the company announced these Joya de Nicaragua offerings are now heading to retailers. Joya de Nicaragua and Drew Estate have a long-term collaborative relationship. Drew Estate handles distribution for Joya de Nicaragua, and Joya de Nicaraguas factory has been used for several Drew Estate projects. Each tin contains ten 4 x 32 cigars. The 4 x 32 offerings are also available in 50-count sleeves and contain a Boveda humidification packet. JOYA Black (432): MSRP $65 / 50ct sleeve, MSRP $13 per tin JOYA Red (432): MSRP $65 / 50ct sleeve, MSRP $13 per tin Joya de Nicaragua Antano 1970 (432): MSRP $90 / 50ct sleeve, MSRP $18 per tin For more details of the Joya de Nicaragua tins, please see our 2018 IPCPR Pre-Game Coverage: Photo Credits: Drew Estate The rainy conditions Wednesday afternoon allowed Columbus farmer John Harms to get out of the field to attend Gov. Pete Ricketts' town hall meeting. He hoped that the states leader would provide some insight regarding what is happening throughout Nebraska in the months following Marchs disastrous flooding. With Ricketts talking about flood relief and recovery efforts for a substantial period of time at the beginning of his speech, Harms got exactly what he wanted, and also had a few of his concerns addressed. We had damage fortunately not as much as some others, but a lot of washout debris left on our farm ground, said Harms, who tends to approximately 2,000 acres west of town with family members. In order for us to be able to go in and start doing cleanup, we had to get permission from our local FSA (Farm Service Agency) office, and with that, there was a lot of misinformation with receiving an environmental impact study. Ricketts said that numerous FSA offices have been putting out information that isnt entirely accurate. If producers cleanup efforts dont extend below the plow line, they are able to tend to their properties and clean up however they like, Ricketts said. Somebody told me they thought if they wanted to replace a fence post that you had to get an environmental assessment not true, the governor said. As long as you are not going to go below the plow line you can clean off any sand that youve got, all that sort of stuff you dont need an environmental impact study The FSA has been putting some stuff out thats not true, and its just causing red tape. Red tape is the last thing needed with Nebraskas ongoing flood-relief and cleanup campaign, the governor said. The natural disaster captured four state residents' lives two in Platte County and resulted in an estimated $400 million in livestock loss and $440 million in crop loss. In addition, about $85 million in damages was sustained to state homes and businesses. Now, Ricketts said, Nebraska residents are in full-fledged recovery mode. We have moved on from the response phase to the recovery phase, Ricketts said. And we are working to make sure that we get back to normal and rebuild as quick as possible, but it will take time. Valuable dollars are now making their way to residents whose homes and livelihoods were jeopardized by the sweeping floodwaters. Ricketts highlighted how $25 million has been approved by private insurance providers, another $28 million through U.S. Small Business Administration low-interest loans and $24 million in Individual Assistance through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). You put that all together and we are close to $75 million that we have received out of that $85 million in estimated damage, Ricketts said. Either through insurance, loans or direct assistance. So, that is in less than two months, so I think its a great start for us getting on this recovery. Regarding getting producers much-needed dollars, Ricketts said that Congress ability to pass a disaster relief bill will be paramount. The USDA (United States Department of Agriculture) has plans to help our farmers and ranchers, but frankly, right now, we need Congress to fund a disaster relief bill, because there is no funding. They are taking in the information from our farmers and ranchers, but there is no dollars with the disaster relief bill right now. The sheer amount of sand being seen on farm land is also problematic. One of Ricketts associates recently observing land south of Columbus a former military member, noted how the scenery looked familiar. He was a trooper who had been deployed, and he said, jeez, this looks just like Iraq, Ricketts said. You couldnt tell that this was supposed to be farmland in Nebraska because it was covered with so much sand. Now, the task at hand is working with producers to de-sand their fields and find a viable place for all the sand to go. For now, it will be an ongoing headache. Fortunately, though, other headaches are being alleviated. The vast majority of state-operated stretches of road and bridges are operational once more. This, however, hasnt solved everybodys problems. Of the 275 miles that were closed, we still have 11 miles of highway that are still closed, and 12 bridges that are still out, Ricketts said. So, we are working on some temporary solutions in some of those areas. The governor noted that there arent any simple fixes, but through a collaborative effort encompassing state, federal and county/local officials, a sense of normalcy will eventually return. We will rebuild even bigger, better and stronger than we ever were before, Ricketts said. Sam Pimper is the news editor of The Columbus Telegram. Reach him via email at sam.pimper@lee.net. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 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. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp LinkedIn Email Telegram Beirut, May 9, 2019 The Committee to Protect Journalists today condemned the Israeli bombing of Turkish-stated owned news outlet Anadolu Agencys Gaza office on May 4. Israeli warplanes fired five missiles into the building housing the Anadolu Agency office, destroying the building but causing no casualties, according to a report by Anadolu Agency, other news reports, and the regional press freedom group Skeyes. It is completely unacceptable for Israel to bomb and destroy the Gaza office of Turkeys Anadolu Agency and endanger the lives of journalists, who are civilians and guaranteed protection under international law, said CPJ Middle East and North Africa Representative Ignacio Miguel Delgado. Israeli authorities know where media outlets are housed in Gaza, and must ensure that journalists can do their jobs safely, without fear of being injured or killed. The planes first fired warning shots at the building at about 7 p.m., according to the Anadolu statement and the Skeyes report. The employees working the evening shift told me that the building was being shelled, so I told them to leave the building immediately without trying to save any equipment, Anadolu Agencys Gaza director, Yasser al-Bana, told Skeyes. The office building housing Anadolu Agency, known as the Iktifan Building, was also home to the Asra Media Office, a Palestinian human rights organization that advocates for prisoners, according to news reports. The Israel Defense Forces allege that the Iktifan Building housed Hamas military intelligence and general security offices, according to news reports. The Hamas media office and the Israeli Defense Forces did not reply to CPJs emailed requests for comment. In an interview with the news agency, Anadolu Agency Deputy Director Mustafa Ozkaya said that Israeli forces targeted us deliberately, not by mistake. At least 22 Palestinians and four Israelis have been killed in the recent flare-up of hostilities between Israel and the Hamas-controlled Gaza Strip, according to news reports. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp LinkedIn Email Telegram New York, May 9, 2019 The Committee to Protect Journalists is gravely concerned about the safety of Mohamed al-Qurj and Mohamed al-Shibani, Libyan journalists with Qatar-based private television broadcaster Libya Alahrar, who disappeared on May 2. Libya Alahrar lost contact with al-Qurj, a reporter, and al-Shibani, a photographer, while the journalists were covering clashes in Tripoli, according to a statement by the broadcaster and news reports. According to those reports, the journalists whereabouts are unknown. In its statement, Libya Alahrar alleged that the journalists had been abducted by the self-styled Libyan National Army, led by Khalifa Hifter. On May 3, a Facebook page attributed to a Libyan National Army brigade claimed to have the journalists in custody. Libya Alahrar did not respond to an email and Facebook message from CPJ. CPJs emailed request for comment to the Libyan National Army and message to the brigades Facebook page went unanswered. Intensified fighting in Libya can only make a very dangerous environment for journalists worse. We call on all sides to take every step to protect journalists and respect their status as civilians, said CPJ Middle East and North Africa Program Coordinator Sherif Mansour. Whoever is holding Mohamed al-Qurj and Mohamed al-Shibanibe it the Libyan National Army, its affiliates, or any other groupshould release them immediately. On May 3, the foreign ministry of the Government of National Accord, the countrys internationally recognized government, which opposes the Libyan National Army, released a statement accusing Hifters forces of detaining the journalists, deeming it contradictory to all international laws and accords that protect journalists during turmoil and wars. Since the journalists disappearance, protests demanding their release were held in Tripoli, as seen in social media posts by local activists. In January, freelance photographer Mohamed Ben Khalifa was killed while reporting from Tripoli, as CPJ reported at the time. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp LinkedIn Email Telegram Bangkok, May 9, 2019 The Committee to Protect Journalists today condemned the Singapore parliaments passage of legislation that could be used to stifle reporting and the dissemination of news, and called for the punitive measures immediate repeal. The Protection from Online Falsehoods and Manipulation Act, which was passed yesterday, gives all government ministers broad and arbitrary powers to demand corrections, remove content, and block webpages if they are deemed to be disseminating falsehoods against the public interest or to undermine public confidence in the government, both on public websites and within chat programs such as WhatsApp, according to news reports. Violations of the law will be punishable with maximum 10-year jail terms and fines of up to $1 million Singapore dollars (US$735,000), according to those reports. The law was passed after a two-day debate and is expected to come into force in the next few weeks, the reports said. CPJ called on the Singapore parliament to reject the legislation when it was first introduced in April. This law will give Singapores ministers yet another tool to suppress and censor news that does not fit with the Peoples Action Party-dominated governments authoritarian narrative, said Shawn Crispin, CPJs senior Southeast Asian representative. Singapores online media is already over-regulated and severely censored. The law should be dropped for the sake of press freedom. Law Minister K. Shanmugam told parliament that the law would not affect free speech and would aim to tackle falsehoods, bots, trolls, and fake accounts, the BBC reported. According to the BBC report, while the legislation bans disseminating falsehoods within chat groups and other private social networks, it does not specify how authorities would be able to monitor such groups. Shanmugam said censorship orders would be made mainly against technology companies that hosted the objectionable content, and that they would be able to challenge the governments take-down requests, Singapore broadcaster Channel News Asia reported. Singapores Law Ministry did not immediately reply to CPJs emailed request for comment on the laws passage. Singapore already has several laws and regulations on the books to censor news or content, particularly surrounding commentary and reporting on politics and security issues, which have led to journalists being imprisoned or forced into financial ruin, according to CPJ reporting. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp LinkedIn Email Telegram When Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador won Mexicos presidential elections last year with a promise to drastically cut the millions of dollars the government spends on press advertising each year, it appeared to signal the end to an opaque system that has been criticized as a way for governments to encourage favorable coverage. However, the presidents first budget for the federal government included an advertising allocation that was US$50 million more than his predecessor had proposed, suggesting that Lopez Obrador may have backtracked on his promises. Moreover, a proposal from civil society groups and journalists to reform a law that allows the practice to continue unchecked appears to have stalled in Congress, despite initial signs that the government would commit to change. The government has spoken about spending cuts, about changes in social communication strategies, but there are no guidelines, no clear rules, Rocio Gallegos, the former editor of El Diario, a major newspaper in Ciudad Juarez, told CPJ. I dont see any intention to create a new law that will regulate this spending. Jesus Cantu, a spokesperson for the president, rejected the notion that the president was backtracking, and said there were proposals for programs across the federal government that would use objective criteria to distribute funds. Massive government spending on advertisements has plagued the Mexican media for decades. The adverts generally promote government programs and achievements. The practice is widely accepted as a way for officials on federal and state level to subsidize media with little to no regulation, oversight, or accountability, and as way to pressure journalists into altering or killing critical stories. Officials have paid for so many adverts and spots over the decades that government money in many cases dominates the budgets of news outlets. A December 2017 New York Times report, citing data from the Mexican investigative group Fundar, found that the federal government spent about US$500 million on advertising in 2016, and that two thirds of Mexican journalists said they censored themselves. While it is widely accepted that the funds are used to ensure positive coverage, proving it is harder. In 2015, prominent Mexican journalist Carmen Aristegui was fired from her morning talk show on MVS Noticias. The station said she was dismissed over a breach of contract, but Aristegui said in interviews she believed the order came direct from Pena Nieto after she reported on a possible conflict of interest involving his then wife Angelica Rivera and a contractor who had received billions of dollars in government contracts. MVS was one of the biggest recipients of government advertisement during Pena Nietos administration, according to Media Ownership Monitor Mexico, a project by press freedom groups Cencos and Reporters Without Borders. Aristeguis dismissal was widely considered by fellow journalists, commentators and analysts as one of the most overt cases of the government using a single, powerful toolbillions of dollars in advertisingto silence critical journalists. CPJ was unable to locate a spokesperson for Pena Nieto for comment. CPJs calls to MVS went unanswered. Adela Navarro, editor of Zeta, a weekly magazine based in Tijuana, said the situation is similar at state level. Zeta reported in September that Raul Reynoso Nuno, director of the social communication department of the Baja California state government, had told the magazine the government would no longer place advertisements after Zeta published a story alleging that the governor, Francisco Vega, sold real estate to government officials. We had a contract with the government, which was canceled overnight, Navarro told CPJ. Its a way to pressure media into not being critical. CPs calls to Reynoso Nuno and Vega went unanswered. Efforts to regulate government money have so far fallen flat. In response to an injunction filed by Article 19, Mexicos Supreme Court ruled in November 2017 that Congress should draft legislation to regulate federal spending on advertising. However, rather than reining in government advertising, the General Social Communication Law, which went into effect on January 1, legalized existing practices. A coalition of journalists, media and press freedom groups called Medios Libres (Free Media) drafted a legislative proposal to replace the law. The draft prohibited influencing and censoring reporting, mandated a fairer distribution of advertising funds, allowed smaller, independent media access to the money, and proposed a cap on federal spending on advertising. Lopez Obradors incoming administration appeared open to the proposal. Jesus Ramirez Cuevas, a spokesperson for the president, told El Financieros Adela Micha in September that the use of government advertising was abusive and confirmed the new administrations intention to create more objective criteria. However, the new governments budget allocated more than US$220 million for social communication for 2019; higher than what Pena Nietos government budgeted in its last year. The government has not justified how this quantity was budgeted or on which social communication plan or strategy it was based, Medios Libres said in a December press release. The groups demand that the General Social Communication Law be replaced with more transparent and accountable legislation also appears to be stalled in Congress. No replacement bill has been formally discussed and it is unclear if and when it will be on the agenda. Cantu, the spokesman for the office of the president, acknowledged the delays. The proposed law was indeed stuck in Congress because of the workload there, but we hope that lawmakers will ultimately look at it and pick it up again, he told CPJ. Referring to the Medios Libres draft, Cantu added, I have to point out that many of the elements that this proposed law carried, and that we believe would work well, will be included in our own proposals. The president has also responded to criticism of his budget, saying during a press conference in January that his government would no longer bribe media and journalists. This money will be used for government advertisement and will be transparent so that everyone knows how the resources will be distributed, he said. However, he was vague about the criteria for determining how the advertising fund would be distributed. When the Secretariat of the Interior sent a four-page document, which CPJ has reviewed, to outlets in March, it included questions about the volume and characteristics of readership. While it is unclear how the ministry intends to use the data, several editors have told CPJ they worry the regulations could lead to media being unfairly excluded from government advertisement. Despite slow progress, some reporters and media professionals remain optimistic. Theres an open dialogue, but its clear that the change in government placed somewhat of a break on the whole process, Adrian Lopez, who is editor-in-chief of the Sinaloa newspaper El Noroeste and a member of Medios Libres, said. What were currently seeing, is the government doesnt have a very clear stance on the issue, but the ball is still in their court. [Reporting from Mexico City] When Ava Terranove began feeling oral pain last July, her parents took her to her regular dentist. The dentist determined that Ava, who has a condition similar to autism, needed two root canal procedures to treat infected teeth. Because of her developmental disability, Ava, now 15, requires general anesthesia for non-routine dental work. The dentist, like most of his peers, was not equipped to provide it. The girls parents, schoolteachers who live in Huntington Beach, Calif., called other dental offices in the region. They were turned down dozens of times before finally finding a dentist prepared to work with an anesthesiologist to treat their daughter. But there was a hitch: Insurance would not cover general anesthesia for root canals. So Avas parents decided to pay the $2,400 from their savings to ensure their daughter received prompt care. What about kids who dont have parents who are professionals or who have no one to advocate for them? wondered Donny Terranove, Avas father. People with autism, cerebral palsy and other developmental disorders face enormous barriers to adequate and timely dental care on top of their other challenges. Many dentists either avoid treating these patients or lack the skills needed to do so. Some patients with developmental disabilities are unable to endure even regular dental exams or cleanings without general anesthesia. But most dentists dont offer it and getting insurance to cover it for routine dental work is often a struggle. Because it is difficult for them to get treatment, people with developmental disorders suffer a high burden of dental disease, according to a 2012 study of over 4,700 patients published in the Journal of the American Dental Association. One-third of the patients studied suffered from untreated cavities, and 80 percent from serious gum infections. Many individuals with developmental disabilities cannot personally maintain their own dental hygiene, according to a September study by the California Legislative Analysts Office (LAO). Often they need extra appointments or special accommodations that dentists are unable or unwilling to provide. In many cases, patients need these extra appointments to help them get accustomed to the environment of a dental office, including the equipment, procedures and personnel. This can help minimize their anxiety and reduce the need for deep sedation or general anesthesia. But sometimes there is no alternative to anesthesia. Mike Loughran, 54, of Tacoma, Wash., has a 14-year-old son with Down syndrome and autism. After years of failed attempts to complete a basic checkup, Loughran and a willing dentist concluded that the child should have general anesthesia for any and all dental work. That led to hefty charges. For one routine, 45-minute exam that uncovered no problems, the anesthesia bill was $1,155. Loughrans insurer, Tricare, adjusted it down to $912 _ a sum he described as very reasonable. But the hospital charged nearly $21,000 for the operating suite. Tricare agreed to coverage and negotiated the price down to about $15,000. That left Loughran with a $2,500 out-of-pocket copayment. He later got the states Medicaid program to cover most of that amount as his sons secondary insurer. Still, Loughran was taken aback by the astronomical amount charged for his sons care. The whole idea of it costing that much to get a dental exam, and youre supposed to do that a couple of times a year it was just stunning when I got the bill, he said. I dont think I would take him to the operating room anymore. Without access to regular cleanings and other preventive care, you get to the point that you need anesthesia because youve had a little problem thats gotten big, said Eileen Crumm, executive director of Family Resource Navigators, an advocacy group in Alameda County. To accommodate the many patients who do need general anesthesia, some hospitals and regional centers for the disabled allocate a limited amount of surgical time for dental care. But because of the strong demand for these services, it can take many months or even more than a year to reserve an available operating slot, patient advocates say. Like the Terranoves, Mariana Murillo had trouble finding appropriate care a few years ago for son Oscar, 20, who has cerebral palsy and cannot communicate verbally. Oscar, a teenager at the time, was in pain from impacted wisdom teeth, and his regular dentist said an oral surgeon would have to extract them. But Murillo, who lives in Lompoc, Calif., had difficulty finding one who would accept Denti-Cal, the states Medicaid-funded dental coverage for low-income people. Murillo ended up paying $1,600 out-of-pocket to an oral surgeon. The surgeon agreed to extract Oscars four wisdom teeth while the boy was already under general anesthesia for the removal of a benign growth on his tongue a procedure covered by Oscars medical insurance. Our financial situation is not great, but it was not too bad, said Murillo. Knowing Oscar was going to be free of that pain, we decided to do it. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 HARRISBURG A senior Republican in the Pennsylvania Senate said Thursday the state should sell the lieutenant governor's residence at Fort Indiantown Gap, saying it would save money and the proceeds could help fund housing for military veterans. President Pro Tempore Joe Scarnati asked for co-sponsors for legislation he is drafting to unload the three-story, 2,400-square-foot State House, as it's called, about 25 miles northeast of Harrisburg. Built in the 1940s, the property includes a couple houses, a five-car garage and a swimming pool. Scarnati's co-sponsorship memo said the property had been designated for the lieutenant governor in 1971. Democratic Lt. Gov. John Fetterman said in November he would not be living there and now rents an apartment a few blocks from the Capitol. Fetterman said Thursday there are plans to let underprivileged children swim in the pool this summer and that the National Guard, which is based at Fort Indiantown Gap, has expressed an interest in acquiring the property. The house is on base land. Fetterman said he "fully supports" conveying the house to the National Guard. "I've always been fully for putting the house to the highest, best use, whatever that is," Fetterman said. "One thing it will never be is that it's my personal residence." Fetterman, who presides over the Senate, said Scarnati did not mention his plans to circulate a co-sponsorship memo when the two were together Wednesday. "Had the president pro tempore simply took me aside yesterday in the Senate chambers, we could have done a joint statement," Fetterman said. Scarnati spokeswoman Kate Flessner said the legislation is being drafted, and the senator is open to input about it. "We're happy to engage in conversations regarding the sale of the property," Flessner said. Staff and maintenance costs have run about $400,000 annually in recent years. Scarnati, of Jefferson County, stayed in the official residence while he served as lieutenant governor from late 2008 until early 2011. As the top ranking senator, he succeeded Democratic Lt. Gov. Catherine Baker Knoll upon her death and held both positions until elected Republican Lt. Gov. Jim Cawley was sworn in. Fetterman, the former mayor of Braddock, won a five-way Democratic primary last year, beating the incumbent, Democratic Lt. Gov. Mike Stack, a former state senator from Philadelphia. Fetterman was elected with Democratic Gov. Tom Wolf in November. Wolf stripped Stack of state police protection and limited cleaning, groundskeeping and maintenance at the State House after an investigation into how state employees were treated there and the use of the troopers. The results of that investigation were not disclosed to the public. The pool was closed at the end of last season for a pump repair, the Department of General Services said last year. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 75 Years Ago Authorities in Pennsylvania and four other states are on the hunt for Jacob Radel, the 42-year-old railroad worker who escaped from the Cumberland County Jail the night of May 7-8. Radel used part of a hacksaw blade to sever the bolt of his cell door and to remove a bar from the shower room window. Pennsylvania State Police are supervising the manhunt while county sheriff Emory Bretz is questioning fellow prison inmates for clues on how Radel obtained the hacksaw blade. Radel left a note behind for Bretz that read: I hate to do this to you but its my only hope. I hold nothing against you or anybody else. The escape took place on the eve of his criminal trial on charges Radel stabbed two men. MOUNT HOLLY, N.J. A New Jersey man was indicted on charges stemming from his role in fabricating a feel-good story about a homeless man rescuing a woman from the side of a highway in order to scam online donors out of $400,000 in contributions, prosecutors said Wednesday. Burlington County Prosecutor Scott Coffina said Mark DAmico, 39, of Florence, was indicted on six charges related to the scheme. A message has been left with DAmicos attorney for comment. Johnny Bobbitt and Katelyn McClure pleaded guilty in exchange for their cooperation with authorities. McClure, who is DAmicos ex-boyfriend, pleaded guilty in state Superior Court in April to second-degree theft by deception under a plea agreement that calls for her to serve four years in state prison and help repay the $400,000. McClure must also testify against DAmico. He has earlier denied wrongdoing. Bobbitt, a homeless military veteran, was sentenced last month to five years probation for his role in the scheme. Under his plea agreement, he will also help repay the money, according to prosecutors. Authorities say the trio concocted the story that Bobbitt rescued McClure, DAmicos then-girlfriend, from the side of a Philadelphia interstate in 2017 to enrich themselves. Prosecutors say the three split the money and spent lavishly, including on a BMW, designer bags and trips to Las Vegas and elsewhere. The group solicited donations through GoFundMe, purportedly to help Bobbitt, and got significant attention with a media blitz that included posing for photos together, revisiting the spot where they claimed they first met, and appearing on Good Morning America. In all, more than 14,000 people contributed. Prosecutors say the scheme was designed to pull at the heartstrings of caring, trusting individuals. GoFundMe says it has refunded the money. McClure and Bobbitt also pleaded guilty in March to federal charges stemming from the scheme. DAmico has not been charged in federal court. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Iran announced it will pull out of some commitments under 2015 international nuclear agreement signed with world powers, called Joint Comprehensive Plan Of Action (JCPOA). About Irans Partial Withdrawal In a move of partial withdrawal from JCPOA Iran will pull out of some commitments such as: It will stop suppressing its stocks of enriched uranium and heavy water, as these are needed by certain types of reactor for nuclear fission to take place. Reason: As per Iran, such action is required as European Union (EU) and other countries did not have power to resist US pressure. Also, such measures are necessary to secure Irans rights and bring back balance after United States exited from agreement in 2018. As per Iran, such action is required as European Union (EU) and other countries did not have power to resist US pressure. Also, such measures are necessary to secure Irans rights and bring back balance after United States exited from agreement in 2018. Irans Supreme National Security Council gave 60 days to remaining countries of deal, to implement their commitments, mainly in fields of banking and oil. It referred to commitments made by Russia, China, France, Germany and Britain, to lift sanctions on Iran in return if it curbs its nuclear activities. The decision comes after US dispatched an aircraft carrier strike group to Middle East. As per Iran this path is not that of war, but is of diplomacy with a new language and a new logic. Recent Developments China resolutely opposes unilateral US sanctions against Iran and called on all parties to uphold Iranian nuclear pact. Russia has also denounced US pressure and stands by Iran nuclear deal. Britain in contradiction has not welcomed Irans decision, as it could lead to new Western sanctions. US Stand on Issue In May 2018, US President Donald Trump announced that US will unilaterally pull out of from JCPOA, re-imposing US sanctions on Iran. His administration found the deal to be defective to the core. US also announced to cancel waivers to countries (including India) who continue to purchase oil from Iran. Reasons given for Withdrawal: JCPOA does not have binding restrictions on Irans ballistic missile programme and it does nothing to prevent Iran from sponsoring terrorism in its region. Most restrictions have a sunset-clause, which means that over the years JCPOAs provisions will become less strict and this will enable Iran to move towards nuclear-weapon capability. About JCPOA Vice President of India M. Venkaiah Naidu commenced his four-day official visit to Vietnam on 9 May 2019. His visit comes after a series of high-level exchanges between India-Vietnam in 2018 which include visit of Vietnamese Prime Minister in January and President in March to India. Key Highlights of Visit The Vice President will participate in 16th United Nations Day of Vesak (UNDV) at Tam Chuc pagoda in northern Ha Nam province of Vietnam. He will also deliver keynote address at inaugural session of event, themed for which is Buddhist Approach to Global Leadership and Shared Responsibilities for Sustainable Societies. at Tam Chuc pagoda in northern Ha Nam province of Vietnam. He will also deliver keynote address at inaugural session of event, themed for which is Buddhist Approach to Global Leadership and Shared Responsibilities for Sustainable Societies. This visit is expected to enhance Indias Comprehensive Strategic Partnership with Southeast Asian nation, Vietnam. He will visit Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, to pay homage to Former Prime Minister (and also President) of Vietnam. He will meet Indian community and Vietnamese beneficiaries of Jaipur Foot Artificial Limb Fitment Camp organized in 2018 by India under India for Humanity initiative. It was launched to commemorate 150th Birth Anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. organized in 2018 by India under India for Humanity initiative. It was launched to commemorate 150th Birth Anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. He will pay tributes to martyrs at National Monument of Heroes and Martyrs (Vietnams War Memorial). He will also meet Nguyen Kim Thi Ngan, Chairperson of National Assembly of Vietnam (Vietnams Legislative Assembly). He will interact with Dang Thi Ngoc Thinh, Vice President of Vietnam and hold delegation level talks. High level talks will discuss issues including: trade and investment relations between two nation, exploring opportunities in oil and gas sectors, giving better market access to Indias exports, mutual cooperation in defence and space technologies, training and capacity building of Vietnamese defence forces, seeking support for Indian Pharmaceutical facilities in Vietnam and strengthening of cultural bonds between two nations. About 16th United Nations Day of Vesak Vesak (also known as Buddha Jayanti or Buddha Purnima) is celebrated to commemorate birth of Lord Buddha, his attainment of enlightenment (nirvana) and his passing away. Its date changes every year based on lunar calendar. It is considered sacred to Buddhists. Indian Vice Presidents participation at event is expected to strengthen ties between India and Buddhist communities worldwide. It is expected to be attended by more than 10,000 Buddhist followers, 1,500 religious dignitaries, scientists and researchers from all over the world. 1. Yes. If a department head is doing a bad job and the city manager wont act, its needed. 2. Yes. Its a crucial safeguard against poor hiring decisions and conflicts of interest. 3. No. It would only muddle the leadership structure and damage employee morale. 4. No. It would make it harder to recruit and retain qualified city leaders at all levels. 5. Unsure. Council oversight may be good, but perhaps not to such a significant extent. Vote View Results Thirteen members of the Missouri Future Business Leaders of America Chapter from Farmington High School recently traveled to Springfield, Missouri for the Missouri Future Business Leaders of America Phi Beta Lambda State Leadership Conference (SLC). The four-day conference, which began April 12, featured workshops, keynote speakers and professional networking opportunities with Fortune 500 companies. The State Leadership Conference is the pinnacle of our year and it's been a busy year," said Carolyn Strobl, FBLA faculty adviser. "SLC is where schools get recognized for participation in the various state and national projects, as well as those students who achieved a BAA (Business Achievement Award) or CSA (Community Service Award). "Our chapter was also recognized for making the second largest donation to March of Dimes, one of our national partners, thanks to the penny war fundraiser and Knights' Locker donations. We had the best showing ever at SLC this year. FBLA junior Jacob Henderson said "SLC was such a blast! Not only did I learn a lot about FBLA and business in general, but it was also a bonding experience for our chapter." Freshman Samantha Warren had this to say about her first SLC, I went to several workshops and learned a lot about how to work well with others, and I formed closer bonds with members of my chapter. I also had the rare experience of going on stage to accept my award for Introduction to Business Communications. Senior Devin Lawson said The SLC conference workshops offer interesting, relatable, and useful content on leadership. I have learned so much thanks to the opportunities at SLC! Over 5,000 students and advisers came together for the event, with over 150 business education related contests running during the event. Farmington students were involved in 20 contest events. Of those 20 events, Farmington FBLA members brought home eight Top 10 winners (10 students in the top 14), including *1st place: Emerging Business Issues Team (Kala Dodson, Madison Rodgers, and Ann Raymer) Not only did they place first, they got a perfect score of 100 from all three judges. (Performance event; The topic was "Should employers be allowed to required employees to be microchipped or not." They had to present both sides.) *2nd place: Madelyn Mabry, Introduction to Parliamentary Procedures (written test) *5th place: Caitlyn Mabry, Introduction to Financial Math (written test) *5th place: Heather Beard, Introduction to Business Procedures (written test) 6th place: Management Decision Making Team: Caitlyn Mabry, Jacob Henderson, and Heather Beard (performance and test event) 7th place: Introduction to FBLA, Abby Hogan (written test) 9th place: Introduction to Business Communications, Samantha Warren (written test) 9th place: Who's Who in FBLA, Ann Raymer (nominated by adviser and materials reviewed by panel) *Competing in the National Leadership Conference in San Antonio, Texas, June 29-July 2. Missouri FBLA-PBL, a chartered member of National FBLA-PBL, is a registered 501(c)3. Their mission is to bring business and education together in a positive working relationship through innovative leadership and career development programs. Missouri FBLA-PBL membership exceeds 15,500, making it the second largest state chapter of the organization in the nation and the second largest CTSO in Missouri. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Political prisoner, activist, journalist, hymn-writer, emerging think tanker, aspiring novelist, hanger on of academia, parliamentary candidate for North West Durham, Shadow Leader of the Opposition, Speedboat, proudly banned from Twitter so officially more dangerous than the Taliban, eagerly awaiting the second (or possibly third) attempt to murder me. Tamil Nadu: From GPS to echo, heres a fishermans tech guide at sea by Akila Kannadasan May 09,2019 | Source: The Hindu The net may be the first thing a fisherman picks up before heading to sea. These days, however, theres one other thing that he cant leave behind: his hand-held GPS. From the beginning of time, fishermen have been banking on two resources for guidance: water and air. They use water current, its temperature, the direction of wind and its humidity to lead them when they go fishing. Now, however, GPS does the same work for them. The Government gave 700 fishermen in our region walkie-talkies with built-in GPS in 2018, says P Ethiraj, a fisherman who owns a fibreboat in Pulicat, 54 kilometres from Chennai. The authorities have also fixed an antenna inside the premises of our market to support these walkie-talkies. Ethirajs fibreboat is powered by a 10 HP engine. In the past, most of us went by our instinct to a spot for fishing. But that didnt always promise us a good catch. With GPS, however, we are mostly always rewarded, explains the 50-year-old. We connect with fishermen on boats nearby over walkie-talkie; they lead us to spots where we are likely to find plenty of fish. Their directions are in the form of points from their GPS that we follow, says Ethiraj. Weve been making good profits, thanks to this technology. Earnings apart, Ethiraj says that their GPS-enabled walkie-talkies have also saved lives. Recently one night, fishermen from my village called for help while they were stranded at deep sea and we rushed to rescue them. Ethiraj points out that these systems can also be used to contact the Coast Guard or bigger boats in case of an emergency. According to author R N Joe DCruz, who has written extensively on the fishing community, and is also the CEO of a shipping company in Chennai, our countrys fishermen have been using GPS for the past 10 years. Boats over 80 feet long involved in deep-sea fishing, use RADAR, echo sounding, as well as GPS, he says. Their economies allow them to invest in such technologies, he explains. Yugraj Singh Yadava, Director, Bay of Bengal Programme Inter-Governmental Organisation and, Project Manager, World Bank Ocean Partnership for Sustainable Fisheries and Biodiversity Conservation Bay of Bengal Project, says that fish finders and VHF (for communication) are also among the common tools for fishermen. Yadava says fishermen also use mobile phones in communication and trade. However, connectivity is limited to 10 to 12 nautical miles from the shore, he explains. A small section of the community is still untouched by technology. Artisanal fishermen who use non-motorised boats and fish at near-shore waters (around eight to 10 nautical miles from the shore) rely on lighthouses, stars, and city lights, and of course on their intuition, explains Yadava. This, he believes, is a strand of DNA in the genes they inherit from their forefathers. However, Joe fears that such traditional knowledge is fast disappearing. Some 30 years ago, fishermen would secure their nets at one spot at sea and return the next day to collect it. This was when GPS was unheard of. How did they know exactly where theyd find their nets? They used landmarks on land, explains Joe. A hill, a sliver of a waterfall, a peak that slightly sloped towards the right these where their markers. Now that GPS has taken over, there is the risk of such practices not being passed on, feels Joe. But there is also a positive side to this. Fishing, like farming, is drawing a lot of educated youngsters who want to keep in touch with their roots. These people are able to combine technology and traditional knowledge. But what is more important, according to Joe, is that the Government invests in technology that forecasts weather with clarity, so that fishermen know exactly when to head to sea and when to keep off it. 2019, THG PUBLISHING PVT LTD. Tamil Nadu: Fishermen utilize 61-days fishing ban period to repair boat, nets May 09,2019 | Source: ANI Fishermen in Rameswaram are utilizing the 61 days fishing ban imposed by Tamil Nadu government to repair and tone up the mechanized boats for fishing. The 61-day annual ban on fishing by mechanized boats in Tamil Nadu was imposed on April 13 midnight. Three main fishing harbours of Tharuvaikulam, Thoothukodi and Chinna Muttom are experiencing this ban. Around 650 boats are operated from these harbours would be anchored during this period. The fishing ban is imposed between April 15 and June 15 every year during the breeding season for fishes. Fish prices see a huge rise in the range of 50-75%. The fishermen are using the ban period to carry out major overhauling of their vessels and preparing nets for the next season."We don't have any work during this period so we undertake boat maintenance work. We fix the boats; once the ban comes to close we have to rely on our boats. We spend nearly Rs 5-6 lakh to ready our boats for the fishing season," said Raja, a fisherman from the region. Around 650 boats being operated from these harbours and a few boats having their bases at Vembar and Veerapandianpattinam would be anchored till June 15 to facilitate breeding of fish. Fish prices would witness a 50% to 75% rise during this period aninews.in | Sri Lanka: 12 fishermen arrested for illegal fishing practices May 09,2019 | Source: News First Sri Lanka Navy during a night patrol in Back Bay, Trincomalee arrested a total of 12 people for using illegal fishing nets in Trincomalee and Chammala. The suspects were aged between 18-43 and are residents of Trincomalee. Meanwhile, the navy apprehended four personnel who were engaged in illegal fishing in the seas of Chemmalai. A naval craft attached to the Eastern Naval Command had apprehended these four individuals who had used illegal fishing nets. A boat, an outboard engine and 2 banned nets were taken into naval custody. The suspects from Negombo, Palliyapasalwaduwa and Madurankuliya along with the seized fishing gear were handed over to the office of the Assistant Director of Fisheries-Mullaitivu for legal processing. 2019 MTV Channel (Pvt) Ltd Bangladesh: Huge yields of Ilish widen economic horizon by Mamun Abdullah May 09,2019 | Source: Dhaka Tribune Bangladeshs Ilish production has continued to grow due to the government bar on netting Jatka (Ilish fry) and strict implementation of rules regarding protection of the production zones. Besides, rehabilitation of fishermen and alternative job for them during the spawning period of Ilish has also played a big role in boosting Ilish production. Meanwhile, except in Bangladesh, in 11 other countries where Ilish is found, its production is on the decline. Ilish production increased by one hundred and sixty percent to 5.17 million MT tonnes in the last 20 years, according to the year book of fisheries statistics of Bangladesh Fisheries Research Institute (BFRI). Fisheries Research Institute Director General Yahya Mahmud said: The government is working to raise public awareness so that no one catches Ilish illegally during the spawning seasons. This is why the production of Ilish has increased. According to the BFRI report, in 2002-03 FY Ilish production was 1.99 lakh MT, 2.77 lakh MT in 2004-05 to 2006-07, 2.98 lakh MT in 2008-09, 3.25 lakh MT in 2010-11, 3.49 lakh MT in 2012-13, 3.75 lakh MT in 2014-15, 4.96 lakh MT in 2016-17, 5.17 lakh MT in 2018 and the current year up to March. Ilish is now found in the rivers of 125 upazilas of the country, according to BFRI, while fisheries sector plays an important role in the economy and Ilish is one of sources of nutrition, employment and export earnings for the country. According to the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock, Ilish's contribution to the country's total fish production is about 12% and around 1% of the countrys GDP while fisheries sector contributes 3.57% of the country's total GDP and 25.30% of agricultural GDP. The market value of Ilish produced in the country is about Tk20,000 crore and the government is trying to sustain and increase its growth performance. According to the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics (BBS), almost 31% of the country's population are directly involved in the fisheries sector, while 11% indirectly depend on this sector for their livelihood. Bangladesh Fisheries Research Institute Senior Scientific Officer Ashraful Alam said: We have been successful in preventing Jatka netting during the spawning periods from March to April and November to January, and also securing six safe zones of Ilish covering 7,000 square kilometers. According to Bangladesh Fisheries Research Institute (BFRI), Chadpur, Bhola, Barisal, Shariatpur, Potuakhali, Barguna are the safe haven of Hilsha. The highest 66% of Ilish come from Barisal division. According to the report of the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) on July 9 last year, Bangladesh was fifth in world ranking on inland fish production two years ago. Now it is third. The country now only trails behind China and India, ranked first and second respectively. Not only Ilish, other species of fish are also witnessing growth in production. Fisheries Research Institute Director General Yahya Mahmud said: Fisheries Department is implementing a project named 'Eco Fish' in eight districts to protect fish and biodiversity of the coastal rivers. We are implementing the project in Barguna, Patuakhali, Bhola, Barisal, Pirojpur, Shariatpur, Chandpur and Laxmipur districts at a cost of Tk90 crore. International fish research firm World Fish is giving the financial and technical support, he informed. Global production scale Fish experts have said Ilish production can be maximized in areas adjacent to the Bay of Bengal. For this, India and Myanmar have to stop netting mother Ilishs and Jatkas which will increase Ilish in these areas. More than 70% of the worlds total production of Ilish is from Bangladesh, followed by India with 10%-15% and Myanmar with 8%-10%. The rest comes from other countries. Ilish prices With the production of Ilish on the rise over the years, its prices declined in domestic markets remarkably, much to the satisfaction of Ilish consumers. According to the estimate of Fisheries Research Institute, the price of a medium sized Ilish came down to Tk700-800, which was Tk1,000-1,200 even three years back. The prices of Ilish would come down further in the coming years, Director General of the Institute Yahya Mahmud said. GI recognition In 2017, Ilish was recognized by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) as the geographical indicator of Bangladesh. Scientists of Bangladesh have achieved the feat of exposing the full life of this fish the following year. Meanwhile, researchers of Bangladesh Agricultural University of Mymensingh started research in this genome in 2015. These achievements play an important role in the preservation, production and quality of Ilish. Training institutions In March 22, State Minister for Fisheries and Livestock Ashraf Ali Khan Khasru inaugurated a training centre in Chandpur under the Bangladesh Fish Research Institute at a cost of Tk1.5 crore. Businessmen, fishermen, stockists, fisheries representatives and others involved in the sector will get technology-based training under this institution. Around 500 people will be trained here annually. Social security Approximately five lakh fishermen are directly involved in the procurement of Ilish. About 25 lakh people are directly and indirectly involved in this sector. The government has provided 7914.18 MT of VGF (Vulnerable Group Feeding) food assistance at a rate of 20 kg to 3,95,709 families in 2018-19. 2012-2019. 2A Media Limited. Pakistan: EU ban on fish import May 09,2019 | Source: The Express Tribune The revelation that the European Union (EU) has not been importing fish and its related products from Pakistan for the last three years is another bad news about the countrys dwindling economy. In a country already caught up in a menace of circular debt and external debt servicing, any trade deficit due to imbalance in its imports and exports is always a bad omen. A Senate panel was informed on Monday that EU member countries while not allowing any fish import from Pakistan in the last three years, are insisting to visit Karachis Fishery and other related facilities before deciding to allow import from Pakistan. The Minister for Maritime Affairs, Ali Haider Zaidi, informed the Senate Standing Committee that The EU insists on visiting Karachis Fishery whose hall is not in proper condition at the moment. An inspection right now can even result in complete ban on Pakistans fish products. In fact these are the poor conditions of the fishing boats, unhygienic conditions at the Karachi Fish Harbour, use of substandard nets and the alleged lack of international standards at the fish processing units that has since long been a major source of concern for not only member countries of the EU but also the United States of America. Earlier in April 2007, the EU had placed a complete ban on the import of raw fish and any of its processed products to its member states from Pakistan. The ban continued for six years and was lifted in March 2013 after Pakistan had agreed to and implemented the conditions of EU. Why Pakistan cannot improve the facilities for its own economic benefits? According to Zaidi, part of the problem lies in lack of coordination between the Centre and the province. But it doesnt sound a convincing explanation. What the government must realise is that implementing the demands of EU will not only improve the imports but can help bring about a positive change in the lives of coastal communities, especially in Sindh. 2019 The Express Tribune. BEIJING (AFP) - A Chinese court adjourned a hearing on a Canadian man's appeal against his death sentence for drug smuggling without a decision on Thursday (May 9), in a case that has deepened a diplomatic spat between Beijing and Ottawa. Robert Lloyd Schellenberg, 36, was sentenced to death in January after a court deemed his previous 15-year prison sentence too lenient. His appeal hearing came a day after a top executive of Chinese telecom giant Huawei, Meng Wanzhou, appeared in court in Canada to fight a United States extradition bid that triggered the diplomatic storm. The Liaoning High Peoples Court in northeast China said in a statement that all procedural rights of appellant Schellenberg were guaranteed in accordance with the law. The trial has adjourned and the court will select a day or time to pronounce the sentence", it said without further details. Schellenberg's case is seen as potential leverage for Meng, who was arrested on a US extradition request related to Iran sanctions violations - a link that Beijing has repeatedly denied. Following the Huawei executive's arrest in December , China detained former Canadian diplomat Michael Kovrig and businessman Michael Spavor, in what observers saw as retaliation. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said China had "chosen to arbitrarily" sentence Schellenberg to death, and his government has pleaded for clemency. Ottawa said on Wednesday that it was extremely concerned that China has chosen to apply the death penalty, a cruel and inhumane punishment. Schellenberg was originally sentenced to 15 years in prison and a 150,000 yuan (S$30,000) forfeiture in November. But following an appeal, the high court in Liaoning ruled in December that the sentence was too lenient, given the severity of his crimes. About a month later, his sentence was changed to capital punishment. China has executed foreigners for drug-related crimes in the past, including a Japanese national in 2014, a Filipina in 2013, and a Briton in 2009. Last week, another Canadian, Fan Wei, was sentenced to death for drug trafficking in a separate case in southern China. Kovrig and Spavor, meanwhile, have been denied access to lawyers and allowed only monthly consular visits. | Report an error, an omission, a typo; suggest a story or a new angle to an existing story; submit a piece, a comment; recommend a resource; contact the webmaster, contact us: deathpenaltynews@gmail.com Opposed to Capital Punishment? Help us keep this blog up and running! DONATE! "One is absolutely sickened, not by the crimes that the wicked have committed, but by the punishments that the good have inflicted." -- Oscar Wilde Members of Ajnad Misr were convicted of deadly attacks on security forces in and around Cairo CAIRO, Egypt An Egyptian court Tuesday upheld the death sentences of 13 Islamic militants for attacks against security forces, a judicial official said. The defendants were charged with forming a militant group, Ajnad Misr (Soldiers of Egypt), that has claimed responsibility for lethal attacks on security forces in and around the capital Cairo. Egypts Cassation Court rejected an appeal against initial rulings passed by a Giza criminal tribunal in December 2017. The accused were found guilty of making and possessing explosive materials, bombs and firearms, and of receiving training outside the country. They were also convicted of terrorist acts against police forces and public facilities from late 2013 to May 2015. Apart from the 13 death sentences, 17 defendants were handed life prison terms, and nine were sentenced to between five and 15 years in jail, while five were acquitted. Ajnad Misr claimed several deadly attacks against security forces and bombings outside key buildings such as the supreme court and the cabinet offices. In 2015, the groups leader Hammam Mohamed Attiyah was shot dead in a Cairo gunfight with police. Police said Attiyah belonged to Ansar Beit al-Maqdis, the Egyptian branch of the Islamic State group, before he broke away in 2013 to found Ajnad Misr. Egypt has been battling an insurgency affiliated with IS in the restive North Sinai region since former Islamist president Mohamed Morsi was ousted in 2013. The government in February 2018 launched a large-scale military operation against IS in the Sinai Peninsula of eastern Egypt. Around 600 suspected militants and 40 soldiers have been killed so far, according to official figures. Egypt has come under international criticism in recent years for handing down mass death sentences. Most such sentences have been tied up in the courts and never carried out. | Report an error, an omission, a typo; suggest a story or a new angle to an existing story; submit a piece, a comment; recommend a resource; contact the webmaster, contact us: deathpenaltynews@gmail.com Opposed to Capital Punishment? Help us keep this blog up and running! DONATE! "One is absolutely sickened, not by the crimes that the wicked have committed, but by the punishments that the good have inflicted." -- Oscar Wilde The city of Albany weathered the 2008 recession largely because it had substantial reserves, and now, with another recession possibly looming, it's time to hunker down, City Manager Peter Troedsson says. During a two-hour presentation Tuesday night to the city's Budget Commission, Troedsson walked the committee through the citys proposed budget for the two-year cycle beginning July 1. This is the first time the city has produced a budget for the biennium. The proposed budget, which totals $345 million in all funds and about $86 million in the general fund, includes cuts to emergency services, the library and employee health insurance, as well as the closure of Maple Lawn preschool. Costs are outpacing revenue, Troedsson said, and the proposed budget is the result of months of staff work to find areas to cut. A recurring theme throughout this budget is the effort to try to avoid layoffs, he said. A part of that was addressing the reality of an increase in Public Employee Retirement System costs. "They're up to about 33% of our wages and salaries costs. They were about 27%, so there was a 6% increase," said Finance Director Jeanna Yeager. The cost of providing health insurance to city employees is going up 17.8%. The cost of providing insurance to firefighters, however, is only going up 4%, and that, combined with other cost savings, has reduced potential cuts to the Fire Department. During an earlier meeting of the Budget Commission, Troedsson outlined Fire Department cuts that included the elimination of the department's technical rescue team that specializes in unique rescue operations, laying off six firefighters and freezing two other positions. On Tuesday night, he said the savings in health insurance costs would amount to $400,000 and that a change in payroll software saved an additional $75,000. These changes resulted in reducing the potential department layoffs from eight down to four, Troedsson said. Troedsson told the commission that he would begin making the case for additional revenue at Wednesday's meeting of the Albany City Council. Well propose fee and rate increases that would provide some additional funding, Troedsson said. Increases to ambulance service and fire and life safety fees would bring in an estimated $880,000 of new revenue over the biennium. These revenues would go to the general fund, and if council elects to approve the increases, we will use them to avoid layoffs. Troedsson said avoiding layoffs was particularly crucial in public safety and emergency services, citing an increase in the citys population and the subsequent jump in calls for service. The Fire Department already has responded to nearly 10,000 calls this year. We have concerns about our ability to respond to all calls, he said, noting cuts to the Albany Police Department as well. In year one of the budget, the Police Department will freeze one police lieutenant position and three officer positions either through leaving unfilled positions empty or planned retirement. In year two, an additional lieutenant position and two officer positions will be frozen, bringing the number of sworn officers to a 15-year low of 58. The street crimes and traffic units will also be disbanded. The department is fortunate to be able to avoid layoffs, Troedsson said. However, its important to recognize the impact of freezing these positions. He said vehicle collisions had decreased with the help of a dedicated traffic officer and the street crimes unit focused its efforts on reducing the number of drug and property crimes. Reducing the number of police officers will potentially have several effects, Troedsson said. Fewer police officers will restrict our ability to be proactive. There is a potential that response times may increase and there will be less flexibility for officers to take personal leave. Troedsson said it was also important to remember that once police officers are cut, it can be difficult to increase sworn officers again due to the year-long training officers must complete before being able to work alone. Residents wanting to speak before the commission waited two hours to offer comments on the budget's proposal to close the Maple Lawn preschool. The school is part of the citys Parks and Recreation Department, which would see a deficit of $1.259 million if it provides current service levels into the next two-year budget cycle. Troedsson told the commission that the Greater Albany Public Schools had shown interest in saving the school, but it depended on state funding. A nonprofit organization, the Oregon Child Development Coalition, has also contacted the city in regard to Maple Lawn. Troedsson said a representative of the organization expressed an interest in visiting the school in the near future. The uncertainty, however, had parents speaking out passionately at Tuesdays meeting, noting that the short notice of the closure left children with few options given enrollment deadlines. Moreover, Maple Lawn is one of the only preschools in the area to serve children with special needs. The budget commission is set to meet again Thursday, but no spoken public comments will be accepted. Instead, written comments can be emailed to marilyn.smith@cityofalbany.net. Residents can view the hearings live on the Albany Public Access channel on Comcast Channel 28 in Linn County and Channel 23 in Benton County. Love 1 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 This year's Corvallis Guitar Festival will be more compact than before, says Tom Strini, Corvallis Guitar Society board member. But there's no reason to worry: It just means guitar enthusiasts will get all of the third annual festival's activities and concerts in one day, instead of two. The Corvallis Guitar Festival returns to the First Presbyterian Church of Corvallis Saturday with a master class, a lecture and demonstration on guitar history, a workshop and performances by Ian O'Sullivan, classical guitarist, composer and ukulele master, as well as the OSU Guitar Ensemble and renowned classical guitarist Bill Kanengiser. The festivities begin with a master class led by Kanengiser. The Grammy Award-winner is a founding member of the Los Angeles Guitar Quartet, recording artist, professor of guitar at the University of Southern California Thornton School of Music and highly regarded ensemble and solo guitarist with a long list of international credits. Cameron O'Connor, who will direct the OSU Guitar Ensemble's performance Saturday evening, studied under Kanengiser at USC. He said his teacher "plays a wonderful, off-the-beaten- path repertoire." "The guitar is capable of performing all sorts of different genres. His programming is diverse and showcases that aspect better than anyone I can imagine," O'Connor said. He also admires Kanengiser's universal musical knowledge. "I'm always in awe watching him perform for that reason," O'Connor added. O'Sullivan, who grew up in Hawaii, in the North Shore countryside of Oahu, will play a classical guitar and ukulele concert Saturday afternoon. Well-versed in Hawaiian music and Western classical repertoire, the artist has performed throughout the country and internationally. Most of O'Sullivan's music is his own compositions, Strini said. "He's going to give a workshop on the real Hawaiian approach to ukulele playing," Strini said. "People will have a lot of fun at this one." James Bishop Edwards, a classical guitarist, teacher and composer from Ashland, will give a lecture and demonstration on guitar history with O'Connor and Strini. Edwards has a specific interest in odd musical instruments from 1750 to around 1830, a period which led up to the guitar, Strini said. Festival organizers believe performances by Kanengiser and O'Sullivan will offer plenty of firsts for the audience. "Even if you're sort of into the guitar world, you're likely to hear a lot of stuff you have never heard before," Strini said. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 A Dallas man originally charged with murder for the February shooting of an Albany woman pleaded guilty on Wednesday in Linn County Circuit Court to the lesser charge of first-degree manslaughter. Eric Rodriguez-Najar, 38, also pleaded no contest to first-degree assault. Charges of unlawful use of a weapon - firearm and fourth-degree assault are set to be dismissed at sentencing, which was scheduled for Friday. Per terms of the negotiated settlement, Rodriguez-Najar will serve 17-and-a-half years in prison, the mandatory minimum for the charges he pleaded to. Oregon judges arent bound to honor the terms of plea deals, but they almost always do. Mary Alice Taylor, 59, was shot to death in her home in the 1100 block of Lafayette Street Southeast in Albany on the afternoon of Feb. 28. Her daughter, Lani Taylor, 36, Rodriguez-Najars ex-girlfriend, suffered a gunshot wound to her arm. Defense attorney John Rich said his clients actions were more reckless than intentional, and added that the negotiated settlement likely would have been similar to the outcome of a trial, had the case gone before a jury. It wasnt an easy decision for my client, he said. A neighbor said that Mary Taylor had let her daughter, her daughters boyfriend and their two children move into her home. Mary Taylor had moved into a recreational vehicle on the property so her daughters family could have the run of the house. According to court documents, on the day of the fatal shooting, Lani Taylor told Rodriguez-Najar that she was seeking a restraining order against him. He initially beat her, but later pulled a pistol out and began firing in her direction inside the residence, Lani Taylor told authorities. She ducked into a bedroom, but not before being shot in the left forearm. Her mother was standing behind her and was killed by the gunfire, according to a probable cause affidavit filed in the case. Rodriguez told authorities that he pulled out a gun and then observed Mary Taylor retrieve a cellular phone and start to call 911, the affidavit states. He said he reached for the cellphone, but Lani Taylor reached for the gun, which discharged multiple times, according to the affidavit. Kyle Odegard can be reached at kyle.odegard@lee.net, 541-812-6077 or via Twitter @KyleOdegard. Love 1 Funny 2 Wow 1 Sad 4 Angry 11 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. With roughly $92 million in discretionary revenue included in Benton Countys $311.8 million budget proposal for 2019-21, you might expect a certain amount of head-butting and elbow-throwing by county departments and outside entities vying for a share of the wealth. But Wednesdays public hearing on the countys spending plan for the next biennium was remarkably conflict-free. The only drama in the 3 hour and 15 minute session revolved around whether to cut back the county contribution to the Benton County Historical Society after years of steady support. Starting in the late 1970s, voters approved a property tax levy to support the historical society, but that funding strategy was torpedoed in 1997 by the passage of Measure 50. Since then, the society has relied on the county to provide a sizable chunk of its operating funds. But county officials have been talking about drawing down that support, and the current budget proposal recommended providing $350,000 for 2019-21, down $148,000 from the current biennium. Benton County Historical Society Executive Director Irene Zenev and two of her board members came before the Benton County Budget Committee on Wednesday to make the case for keeping county funding at current levels, at least until the group can finish construction of its $10.7 million museum in downtown Corvallis and get the operation on solid financial footing. Zenev said the new museum, scheduled to open this fall, would draw tourists to the area and help support area businesses. Im sure youve heard this before, she said, but studies show that for every dollar in public support given to cultural organizations, local government receives $7 in economic development. Budget Committee member and Benton County Commissioner Annabelle Jaramillo said the county needs to be careful how it spends its discretionary funds, citing mounting maintenance costs for historic structures and the need to upgrade the courthouse. Its a big dilemma, she said. Trying to make those dollars stretch is really the conflict Im in. But a number of other committee members expressed solid support for maintaining the current level of funding for the next biennium to keep the historical society financially stable while it gets its new museum off the ground. In the end, the committee decided to use $148,000 from the economic development contingency fund to fill the gap. The committee also granted a $250,000 request from Samaritan Health Services to help pay for a new regional drug treatment facility in Lebanon, matching Linn Countys contribution toward the 16-bed, $4 million center. That money will come from marijuana tax receipts. Altogether, the Budget Committee signed off on about $1.9 million in funding requests from outside agencies. Among the amounts approved were $380,000 for the Veterans Services Office, $260,000 for housing support, $60,000 for Linn-Benton Food Share, $50,000 for the Oregon Regional Accelerator & Innovation Network, $22,000 for the Corvallis Foundry and $10,000 for da Vinci Days. In addition, the committee found $636,429 for supplemental funding requests from several county departments, including money to hire a new administrative assistant in the Assessment Office and a lead road maintenance worker in Public Works. The committee also heard budget presentations from three county departments: The Public Works Department is budgeted for $49.2 million in 2019-21, up from $40.8 million in the current biennium. Staffing levels are projected to increase to 55.24 full-time-equivalent positions, up from 52.56. The budget for Natural Areas and Parks is proposed to dip slightly, from $4.2 million in the current biennium to $4.1 million for the next two years, while staffing is slated to rise from 10.56 to 12.03 FTE. Community Development, which is taking over the solid waste program from the Health Department and adding some other responsibilities, is budgeted for $6 million, up from $3.7 million in the last budget cycle. Staffing is projected to increase from 12.59 to 17.79 FTE. The main reason for the relative harmony of this years budget process is simply that the county is in sound financial shape. The proposed 2019-21 budget includes an unrestricted beginning fund balance of $30 million and $42.3 million in contingency and reserve funds. The spending plan also calls for putting $5 million in a side account to buy down the countys Public Employee Retirement System obligations and another $4 million to go toward its 2021-23 PERS payments. When he brought the gavel down to close Wednesdays meeting, Budget Committee Chair David Dowrie predicted the panel would be able to quickly adopt a budget and set a tax rate at its next meeting, scheduled for 3 p.m. May 29 at the Sunset Building, 4077 SW Research Way. Its so much easier to resolve a budget when youre adequately funded, he said. Reporter Bennett Hall can be reached at 541-758-9529 or bennett.hall@lee.net. Follow him on Twitter at @bennetthallgt. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 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. An editorial last month about some unexpected bumps facing industrial hemp producers reported about an Idaho case in which law officers seized a truckload of hemp being shipped from Oregon because well, because it looked just like marijuana. In fact, Idaho authorities thought it might be the biggest marijuana bust in state history, and said so in press releases. Big Sky Scientific, the Colorado company that owned the truckload, protested the bust, and authorities duly sent a sample of the plant off for testing. But authorities continued to hang onto the alleged contraband, which had been sold to Big Sky by a hemp farmer who was licensed by the Oregon Department of Agriculture. Here's an update: The results of the testing are back. As advertised, it's industrial hemp, not marijuana, and so those dreams by Idaho authorities of the biggest pot bust in state history have gone up in smoke, if you will. Industrial hemp, you'll recall, was legalized on the federal level in the 2018 Farm Bill. That bill also removed hemp (finally!) from the federal list of controlled substances. It's true that hemp bears a striking family resemblance to marijuana, but the main difference is that industrial hemp contains less than 0.3 percent tetrahydrocannobinol (THC), the principal psychoactive constituent of cannabis. Nobody gets high smoking industrial hemp. But the crop has considerable promise and U.S. farmers, always interested in exploring new ways to make a buck, are looking for ways to enter the hemp market, estimated as being worth $820 million annually, a figure that's only going to grow in the future. The problem for law enforcement officers is that there's no easy way to test a plant to determine if it's hemp or marijuana; hence the wait endured by Big Sky Scientific while its load of plants was tested at a Kentucky lab. (A fortune awaits the inventor who finally figures out a way to do field tests to accurately determine THC levels.) So, now that the test results are back, you would think that the state would be taking pains to return that load of hemp to Big Sky Scientific, perhaps with a note of apology. No such luck, and here's why: Even though industrial hemp has been legalized on the federal level (and, of course, in Oregon), it's still illegal in Idaho, regardless of the THC level. Any person possessing hemp faces the same punishment as a person possessing marijuana even as Idaho grocery stores sell products containing hemp oil. Idaho authorities, at last word, still had not yet released the shipment to Big Sky. (In fact, a press release from Big Sky reported that the truck itself remains impounded and that Idaho authorities have asked a state judge to let them sell the truck and trailer presumably to help pay for Idaho's robust war on hemp.) More seriously, the driver of the truck, 36-year-old Denis V. Palamarchuk of Portland, still faces felony charges of drug trafficking-marijuana, a crime that carries a mandatory five-year minimum prison sentence if convicted. He's pleaded not guilty to the charge and is out on bond. In the meantime, Oregon Department of Agriculture officials have issued a formal warning urging hemp growers not to ship their crop over state lines. The warning likely isn't that necessary, seeing how trucking companies often are reluctant to have their rolling stock seized by law enforcement officers. It all is vaguely reminiscent of the plot of the first "Smokey and the Bandit" movie, if you substituted hemp for Coors beer. These hemp issues eventually will be ironed out, but it likely will require action on the federal level. And, as demand grows for hemp products, the pressure will be on states like Idaho to legalize the substance. The only question is whether this will be a minor hiccup for a growing industry or something that could do lasting harm. (mm) Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 1 Angry 0 H. Res. 109 is Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez's Green New Deal Resolution. On February 7th, she formally introduced it, along with 67 co-sponsors, not just progressive stalwarts like Ro Khanna (D-CA), Barbara Lee (D-CA), Jerry Nadler (D-NY), Ted Lieu (D-CA), Jamie Raskin (D-MD), Pramila Jayapal (D-WA), and Rashida Tlaib (D-MI), but also more conservative members who were eager to be seen as original cosponsors, like Adam Schiff (New Dem-CA), Eliot Engel (New Dem-NY), Gerry Connolly (New Dem-VA), Mike Thompson (Blue Dog-CA), Seth Moulton (New Dem-MA), Sean Patrick Maloney (New Dem-NY). By the end of February, 22 more members had signed on as co-sponsors. Things came to a grinding halt after that. A couple of guys went for it in March and one conservative Democrat, Pete Aguilar (New Dem-CA), in April. Pelosi-- burning up with jealousy for AOC to the point of dementia-- and her team, had managed to tamp down enthusiasm for the single most important bill introduced into Congress in our lifetimes. She made it clear she didn't want any more co-sponsors for the Green New Deal. unanimously passed-- a strong resolution supporting H. Res. 109 and pointedly sent into the offices of the 3 New Mexico congressmembers, Deb Haaland, an original co-sponsor and the two conservative opponents, Xochitl Torres Small, a wretched and pointless Blue Dog who will never back anything progressive, and Lujan. Torres Small ignored it and went about her Republican-lite business. Lujan was worried about something else-- a popular Secretary of State, Maggie Toulouse Oliver, with whom he is locked in a primary battle for the open New Mexico Senate seat. Oliver is not just supporting the Green New Deal, she's actively campaigning on it. Suddenly, seemingly out of the blue, on May 1, another cosponsor signed on. Of all people it was cloddy conservative and Pelosi butt-boy Ben Ray Lujan, the last person anyone would have imagined signing on. What the hell? Actually, this is easy to explain-- as I showed 2 days later . The central committee of the New Mexico Democratic Party had passed---- a strong resolution supporting H. Res. 109 and pointedly sent into the offices of the 3 New Mexico congressmembers, Deb Haaland, an original co-sponsor and the two conservative opponents, Xochitl Torres Small, a wretched and pointless Blue Dog who will never back anything progressive, and Lujan. Torres Small ignored it and went about her Republican-lite business. Lujan was worried about something else-- a popular Secretary of State, Maggie Toulouse Oliver, with whom he is locked in a primary battle for the open New Mexico Senate seat. Oliver is not just supporting the Green New Deal, she's actively campaigning on it. Lujan isn't known for his brainpower but even he can see which way the wind is blowing when it's hitting him right in the face. He went whining to Pelosi and said he had to sign on and she gave him leave to do so. And, the importance of solving the climate crisis isn't unique to New Mexico. A newly released Monmouth poll of Iowa Democratic voters , shows that when asked what the top issues were for the 2020 election, #1 was healthcare, #2 was Climate and #3 was the environment-- followed by immigration education, jobs, beating Trump, civil rights, taxes, Social Security, personal integrity and national security. Yesterday, writing for NBC News, Alex Seitz-Wald reported that the climate crisis is now a top issue for Democratic primary voters. "That's a big shift," he wrote, "from the last presidential election in 2016, when climate change did not get a single question during the debates between Hillary Clinton and President Donald Trump, and just 15 percent of Democratic primary voters named it as their top priority." Natural disasters and the Trump administration's refusal to combat climate change have added political urgency to the issue among Democrats. As has the more confrontational tactics of grassroots groups like the Sunrise Movement and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio Cortez (D-NY), who joined a climate sit-in in House Speaker Nancy Pelosis office during one of her first days on Capitol Hill. Washington Gov. Jay Inslee, who has based his entire presidential campaign around making climate a top issue in 2020, told NBC News on Tuesday that he sees a political "magic moment," where heightened fear about the climate has met new technologies that offer hope to solve it. "What used to an intellectual abstraction is now a visceral life event for people in real time," Inslee said before signing a new clean energy bill. "It's not about their grandchildren, it's about them-- standing knee-deep in water or watching their house burn down." Parts of Iowa, which holds the first-in-the-nation presidential primary caucuses early next year, are still underwater from catastrophic floods, while California, which will play a newly important role in the presidential primary, just had its deadliest and most destructive wildfire season of all time. With that backdrop, groups like LCV want presidential candidates to go farther than they have in the past, when climate change was often seen merely as one of many boxes to check. They were heartened, for instance, that former Rep. Beto ORourke chose to make a $5 trillion climate plan his first major policy rollout, while many candidates are amping up their rhetoric to show they take the issue seriously. Sen. Kamala Harris (D-CA) said on MSNBC on Tuesday that climate change "represents an existential threat to who we are as a species." "Ambition, prioritization and bold plans that match the scale of the crisis are essential, as is the recognition that this is something that they have to get to work on on day one of their presidency," said Pete Maysmith, LCVs Senior Vice President for Campaigns. Wanna-be presidential nomination contenders jockeying for the conservative, establishment lane have been unfriendly towards the Green New Deal. Probably the most rot-gut conservative of the lot, John Delaney, is actively campaigning against it. The conservative Coloradans, Bennet and Frackenlooper, are opponents. Beto put out a half-assed position paper claiming to support action on Climate that earned him a rebuke from the Sunrise Movement. By the end of the week, it's likely that Status Quo Joe will ask one of his advisors what it is that the kinds on the :"new left" are all yelling about. The Pentagon has spent billions of dollars to prevent a Russian germ warfare attack against out country. (See Season 4, episode 1 of The Americans for proof.) But Putin outsmarted them by putting a crazy anti-vaxxer behind the bully pulpit. The Soviet Union and Russia have or had 7 major biological warfare programs that we know of: Biopreparat (18 labs and production centers, including the Sverdlovsk bioweapons production facility for weaponized anthrax) Institute of Virus Preparations Poison laboratory of the Soviet secret services Vozrozhdeniya Project Bonfire Project Factor Project Trumpanzee Trump's been spreading doubt about vaccines since 2012 These tweets are about 25% of the tweets online with him ranting about vaccinations. We're in the early stages of a measles epidemic thanks to Trump and his insane followers. About one year ago Andrew Buncombe, reporting for The Independent, wrote that "If there is one thing pro-vaccine campaigners and their opponents probably agree on, it is that Donald Trump has provided a major boost to the anti-vaccine cause." There in no link between autism and vaccines; Trump just heard it somewhere and had embellished on the story for almost 8 years. Experts at the Centers for Disease Control, run by the Department of Health and Human Services, say that what Trump is spreading is just not true. Prior the election, Mr Trump met with four prominent anti-vaccine campaigners at a fundraiser in Florida-- disbarred British doctor Andrew Wakefield, Mark Blaxill, editor-at-large of the Age of Autism website, Gary Kompothecras, a chiropractor and Trump donor from Sarasota, and Jennifer Larson, an entrepreneur who has campaigned against the use of vaccines in her home state of Minnesota. ...CDC, the Federal Drug Administration, and the Advisory Committee on Immunisation Practices, regularly review data to ensure that vaccine recommendations are based on the latest available science to provide safe and effective protection against serious diseases. Concerned parents should be reassured that recommended childhood vaccines have a strong safety record. It added: For the general population, maintaining high vaccination levels is important not only for the individual person but also to protect potentially deadly diseases from spreading to the most vulnerable among us, such as patients with weakened immune systems and newborn children who are too young to be vaccinated. A now a few words about Trump's sponsors in Moscow: One thing that Trump hasnt done today yet (which he should have if he wants to stay in Putins good graces) was to congratulate Russians with Victory day. Its an incredibly important holiday in contemporary Russia and its commemoration dynamic can help understand a large chunk of Russian foreign policy. The specificity of Russian collective memory of the Great Patriotic War has been a key factor shaping societys response to the fascism media frame, especially when it comes to the Near Abroad. For a number of reasons, the memory of the war is especially immediate and emotionally charged in Russia. In this context, fascism is not simply a dry term describing distant events and existing only on the pages of history textbooks. It is a highly evocative term that calls up a series of vivid images that are saturated with distinctive meanings and associations, and that have deep contemporary relevance, touching on issues at the very core of the post-Soviet Russian identity. In this context, the fascism frame is thus an especially powerful tool for constructing a sense of existential threat. The well-established, multi-layered and heavily mythologized meanings associated with the Russian memory of fascism serve to increase the likelihood that Russian audiences will accept and support securitizing moves that employ this frame. This effect was especially visible during the crisis in Ukraine and Russian populations overwhelming rejection of the Euromaidan movement framed as a fascist coup in Russian mainstream media. The Russian memory of the war has a number of distinctive features. First, the struggle with fascism is closely interlinked with Russias national identity as a great power and as the liberator of Europe. As Tatiana Zhurzhenko has noted, by condemning neo- fascism in the Baltic states and Ukraine, Moscow not only positions itself as the true defender of European values, but also relives its moment of geopolitical triumph. This memory is cherished especially dearly in the context of the international order that was formed with the end of the Cold War and the emotions linked to the perceived fall in status that came with the demise of the Soviet Union. That is why, questioning the heritage of World War II as an unambiguous battle against fascism as it often happens in the Baltic countries or in Poland, strains the relationship with Russia even further. Second, the vitality and prominence of the Russian collective memory of the Great Patriotic War in part represent the fruits of decades of work by ideologists, from the Soviet period onwards, including recent renewed and intensified efforts aimed at capitalizing on the growing popularity of Victory Day. The Great Patriotic War represents one of the few events in Russian history capable of uniting the overwhelming majority of Russians, and precisely for this reason, the memory of the war was actively used for identity-making purposes in the late 1990s and 2000s. The revival of the Victory parade on Red Square in 1995,20 numerous patriotic commemorative initiatives by pro-government organizations, the use of the St Georges ribbon as a visual commemorative symbol, and the large volume of cinematic works on the war all testify to the activization of the war memory during this period, often with the direct involvement of securitizing actors from Russian government structures. Third, the Russian memory of the war differs from its European and North American counterparts in its lack of emphasis on the memory of the Holocaust. For Russians, the memory of fascism is associated first and foremost with the immense suffering of the Soviet population, especially the civilian population in the occupied territories. As Maksym Yakovlyev writes, the primary chain of associations evoked by the Red Armys victory over fascism focuses on atrocities perpetrated against Soviet women and children. This is the standard chain of associations evoked by the concept of fascism for the average Russian citizen, who, even if he or she paid little attention in school history classes, will at least have watched a few movies about the war, and whose family will also have been touched directly by the war experience in one way or another. So Cadet Bone Spurs should really pick up the phone and tweet. Vietnam is an attractive market in the eyes of Swedish companies because of its rapid economic growth, growing middle class and open business environment. To explore it further, executives from more than 50 Swedish businesses, trade-support organizations, research institutes, and public agencies attended The Sweden -Vietnam Business Summit: Partnering for Sustainable Growth and Innovation in Hanoi on May 7. It was the largest ever business delegation from Sweden and the visit also marked the 50th anniversary of bilateral diplomatic relations. "Vietnam is not only an intriguing emerging market that attracts multinational corporations, but also a dynamic entrepreneurship ecosystem. Many Swedish companies and trade organizations want to join its development process," Swedens Minister for Foreign Trade Ann Linde said at the summit. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Pham Binh Minh underlined Vietnams strong commitment and support to free trade agreements, and expected the Vietnam - Sweden cooperation to speed up the ratification of the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA). Vu Tien Loc, president of the VCCI, at the summit. Vu Tien Loc, president of the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI), said Sweden can lead the investment wave in Vietnam by focusing on technology and the digital economy. He noted that the country should improve the competitiveness of its business environment, labor and infrustructure to take advantage of the EVFTA. Leading companies from the two countries shared experiences and ideas on sustainability and innovation. An exhibition on the sidelines of the summit showcased Swedens innovative and creative solutions in manufacturing, smart cities, smart living, transportation, energy, health, education and sustainability. The exhibition on Swedish solutions on the sidelines of the summit. Sweden was the first western European country to establish diplomatic relations with Vietnam. According to the General Department of Vietnam Customs, bilateral trade was worth $1.5 billion in 2018. The Swedish investment in Vietnam reached $365 million with 68 projects. Vietnamese seafood prices are higher than competing products from other Southeast Asian countries, according to TRRV. Photo by Reuters/Kham Vietnamese exports to Russia only grew by 8 percent last year compared to 35 percent the previous year, a Russian official said. Meanwhile Russian exports to Vietnam have been accelerating in the last two years, Dmirtriy Makarov of the Trade Representation of the Russian Federation in Vietnam (TRRV), said at the Vietnam - Eastern Europe forum Wednesday. Vietnams garment exports only increased by 6 percent, down from 38 percent in 2017, footwear exports barely expanded (16 percent in 2017), while knitwear shipments decreased by 10 percent. The countrys agricultural too fell by 10 percent, he said. According to TRRV, though Russias tariffs on imports from Vietnam are low, Vietnamese textile and garment products still are not able to compete with Russian-made goods because their prices are higher. Similarly, Vietnamese seafood prices are higher than competing products from other Southeast Asian countries, especially Thailand. Makarov said Vietnam's textile and garment industry is highly developed and its brands like An Phuoc, Viet Tien, Blu Exchange, Ninomaxx, Juno, Ren, and Bitis are as good as European products in terms of style and quality, and could easily be exported. But the Russian market has not heard of these brands yet, he said. A TRRV executive said that many Russian textile companies are considering moving their factories from China to Vietnam to avoid the US-China trade war. Vietnamese companies are increasingly forging partnerships with Russian firms. While only 2,200 registered for import or export from and to Russia in 2017, this number increased to 3,500 in 2018. Last year Vietnam was the 23rd largest trading partner for Russia, four places up from 2017. Russia was the 20th biggest partner for Vietnam, up six places, TRRV reported. The main items Vietnam imports from Russia are coal, gasoline, lubricants, fertilizers, chemicals, and iron and steel. Vietnams main exports are telephones and computers, garments, footwear, and agricultural produce. Film The Third Wife set for theatrical release in US Vietnamese movie The Third Wife will be released in 30 U.S. cinemas on May 15. A scene from The Third Wife directed by Nguyen Phuong Anh. The Third Wife, aka Nguoi Vo Ba in Vietnamese, has got an R rating, meaning the movie contains some adult material and people under 17 require an accompanying parent or adult guardian to watch it. The film, directed by Nguyen Phuong Anh, aka Ash Mayfair, will be distributed by Film Movement. Anh plans to arrive in the U.S. for the release. The movie releases in Vietnam on May 17 and then in 27 markets including Japan, the U.K., South Korea, Australia, and Spain. It is based on a true story from the directors own family. Set in 19th century Vietnam, it tells the story of 14-year-old May (Tra My) who becomes the third wife of a wealthy landowner. Little does she know that her hidden desires will take her by surprise and force her to make a choice between living in safety and being free. The Third Wife has won several prizes at festivals including the NETPAC award at the Toronto International Film Festival (Canada), TVE-Another Look award at the San Sebastian Film Festival (Spain) and Best Film award at the Kolkata International Film Festival (India). Made on a shoestring budget of VND28 billion ($1.2 million), The Third Wife is Anhs first full-length feature following some short films like Grasshopper, No Exit and Men. Anh, 34, was born in Ho Chi Minh City and got a masters degree in theater direction from the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts in London and a degree in film production from New York University. The Third Wife joins several Vietnamese movies like Furie (Hai Phuong) and Face Off: The Walking Guests (Lat Mat: Nha Co Khach) that have been or are scheduled to be released abroad this year. Thai sex workers wait for customers at a bar at the Thai-Malaysia border. Photo by AFP 11 Vietnamese were among 20 foreign women detained as Malaysian immigration officers raided a Penang entertainment center. The center in Bukit Mertajam Town in Seberang Perai District was raided last week on suspicion of providing illegal sexual services by foreign employees. The raid followed a local residents complaint saying that the facility was used for prostitution by foreign women at night, the Asia Times reported Wednesday. Apart from the 11 Vietnamese women, six Thai nationals, two Chinese and one from Indonesia were working as guest relation officers at the center and providing illegal sexual services for customers, officials said. They also detained two Bangladeshi men working as supervisors for failing to show valid travel documents and violating Malaysias Immigration Act. Penang immigration officials said at a press meeting later that the premises had been raided several times previously, but no arrests had been made until the last weeks operation as there was a secret passage which allowed the sex workers to escape. Last week, Malaysian authorities captured 184 foreign women, including four Vietnamese, for allegedly working illegally and offering sexual services in Kuala Lumpur. In recent years, Vietnamese workers, mainly women, have visited neighboring countries like Thailand, Singapore and Malaysia and stayed on to work illegally. Many have been caught, detained and deported. Laws and regulations will never be enough to build a perfect society. We need an ingrained moral framework. Dang Hung Vo If you are following the news, you would know of at least two cases of sexual harassment being discussed in news outlets and on social media - teachers touching primary school students inappropriately and an ex-prosecutor forcibly hugging and kissing a little girl in an elevator. You should also know that these cases are the tip of the proverbial iceberg. A 2014 survey of 2,000 women by the NGO ActionAid said 87 percent of women and girls experienced sexual harassment in public in Vietnam, with actual figures likely to be even higher as many are too scared to report such abuses. Even when some cases do result in legal action, these are stuck in limbo and left to gather dust. Hardly something that would deter unwanted behavior. Citizens and policymakers have long called for changes to Vietnams legal system that would make it clearer and easier to enforce. It is true that several of our legal definitions are currently obscure, and do little to protect the rights of our people. However, we should consider this, too. Amending the law might not be enough on its own. For long, Vietnamese society has been governed by specific sets of moral values, most prominently those of Confucianism. Basically, Confucianism tells people to respect their parents, their elders, their kings, to uphold social orders, and in general, be good. This held good until Vietnam gained its independence in 1945, when feudalism was abolished and the sets of moral values associated with the old era began to wane. Today, it appears as though there is no moral framework to support and guide Vietnamese society towards peace and goodwill. Nowadays, people simply ask, "is this legal?" to determine whether somethings right or wrong. I dont think thats enough. While it is indisputable that the existence of a legal system has changed our society for the better, its merely one part of the equation. Punishing criminals for their wrongdoing is good, but there will always be more of them, anyway, as history shows us. Like cutting weeds without plucking their roots, our law is only useful for punishing crimes after they are committed. What if we could prevent them from happening in the first place? Or, what should we do to prevent them in the first place? Thats where a set of moral values comes in. Values that we grow up with, imbibe from the very day we come into this world. Im not saying that teaching moral values is panacea for all the evil in this world. But look at history. Europe chose the ancient Roman legal system as the foundation to govern its people, while East Asia picked Confucianism. Then the continents learned from each other. Europeans realized an ideal world needs the existence of a moral framework, while their East Asians recognized the need for a legal framework to enforce the moral one. The key is to realize that we need both, that one would not work effectively without the other. A moral framework would serve to foster the good in people, while a legal system would discourage them from succumbing to evil. Thats the delicate balance we should seek to achieve. In recent years, Vietnam has been realizing the need for a moral framework, and has moved to reintroduce it into society in the form of codes of conduct. The health ministry did so in 2014, the Hanoi administration in 2017 and the education ministry in 2019. While it is a good sign that our officials are willing to look at problems from different angles, some people have argued that these codes of conduct are nothing more than suggestions and recommendations, without the power of laws and rules. But thats not how we should approach this topic. A moral framework needs to be born out of peoples will that they willingly create and willingly follow. Such a framework also needs to be introduced early on. You cant bend an old tree, after all. Vietnamese students attend the annual new school year ceremony at a secondary school in Hanoi, Vietnam, September 5, 2018. The building of moral values need to start at young ages. Photo by Reuters/Kham I once participated in a conference by the World Bank on urban development, in which one report was about lending money to poor people to fix their homes. I asked the reports authors how they would get borrowers to repay their debts on time. The answer was quick in coming: "We instruct them on how to borrow money, and also tell them beforehand that if the debts are not paid on time, their names would be published in the local bulletin." This is an example of a moral framework being applied. Not sending people to jail, but having a system where they act responsibly out of community or peer pressure, and their own conscience. If we have an effective moral framework, maybe we wont need laws and regulations to guide us. *Dang Hung Vo is a former vice minister of Natural Resources and Environment. The opinions expressed are his own. Vietnam calls for respect for international law as US ships sail near Spratly Islands An aerial view of an island of the Spratly Islands in the South China Sea. Photo by Reuters/Erik De Castro Vietnam said it respects freedom of navigation and requests all parties to fulfill their legal obligations in the South China Sea. "As a party to the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and a nation bordering the East Sea, Vietnam always respects the rights to freedom of navigation and overflight in the East Sea in accordance with the regulations of international law, specifically UNCLOS," foreign ministry spokeswoman Le Thi Thu Hang said Thursday, using the Vietnamese name for the waterway. Her statement was a comment on an incident that happened on Monday as the U.S. guided-missile destroyers Preble and Chung Hoon traveled within 12 nautical miles of Gaven and Johnson Reefs in the Spratly Islands. Commander Clay Doss, a spokesman for the Seventh Fleet, said that the "innocent passage" was "to challenge excessive maritime claims and preserve access to the waterways as governed by international law," Reuters reported. The action, which came on top of trade tensions between the world's biggest economies, angered China, who called it a challenge to Beijing's territorial claims in the region. "The relevant actions of the U.S. warships violated China's sovereignty and undermined peace, security and good order in the relevant sea areas," ministry spokesman Geng Shuang said at a press briefing. Gaven and Johnson are two reefs belonging to Vietnams Spratly Islands, which is illegally occupied by China. Hang said: "Vietnam requests that nations contribute positively and practically to the maintenance of peace and stability, respect and carry out their international legal obligations, respect the rule of law in seas and oceans." She reiterated at the press conference that Vietnam has full legal basis and historical evidence to assert its sovereignty over the Paracel and Spratly Islands in accordance with international law. China seized the Paracels from South Vietnam by force in 1974 and a number of reefs in the Spratly Islands in 1988. An Indonesian navy vessel passes Vietnamese fishing boats before they are sunk at Datuk island in West Kalimantan, May 2019. Photo by Reuters Vietnam says an Indonesian plan to destroy Vietnamese fishing vessels goes against the spirit of bilateral ties and international convention. Indonesia last week announced plans to sink 51 vessels from Vietnam, Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand and China at sea near Pontianak, West Kalimantan in two weeks. Over a dozen were scuttled on Saturday. Indonesian authorities say the vessels have fished illegally in its waters, and the sinking is a "necessary action" to warn neighboring countries that Indonesia is serious about fighting illegal fishing. Yet Vietnam stresses that Indonesias actions have seriously violated its sovereignty and jurisdiction. Le Thi Thu Hang, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokeswoman, told the press on Thursday: "This is an action that is not suitable with Vietnam and Indonesias bilateral relationship, and goes against the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS)." Vietnam has cordially communicated with Indonesia multiple times through different channels on the issue of sinking Vietnamese vessels, said Hang. Vietnam also asked Indonesia to act in accordance with international law, UNCLOS, and to treat Vietnamese vessels and fishermen humanely, as appropriate with the bilateral ties that Vietnam and Indonesia enjoy, and in keeping with ASEANs cooperative spirit. "Vietnam would like to develop a friendly, cooperative, multifaceted relationship with Indonesia in the spirit of the two countries strategic partnership for the benefit of the people of both countries and the building of a united and strong ASEAN community, which contributes to peace, stability, cooperation and development in the region and the world," Hang said. She said 17 Vietnamese vessels have been seized and 140 Vietnamese fishermen captured by Indonesia since the beginning of 2019. Last year, Indonesia destroyed 86 Vietnamese fishing boats for allegedly illegally catching fish in its waters. The tensions have risen this year as Indonesia arrested a group of Vietnamese fishermen fishing in Vietnamese waters, in an area where Vietnam and Indonesia are delimiting their exclusive economic zones (EEZs) on April 27. A Vietnamese fishing boat with 14 fishermen on board was seized and towed away at high speed by Indonesian ship number 381, causing the Vietnamese boat to sink. 12 fishermen were taken into Indonesian waters, while two were rescued by a Vietnam Fisheries Resources Surveillance's vessel. Vietnam has since demanded that Indonesia release the crew of the sunken vessel and duly compensate them. People wait outside the gate of the Thua Thien-Hue Center for Disease Control for their vaccination registration, May 8, 2019. Photo by VnExpress/Vo Thanh A Thua Thien-Hue health center was overrun on Wednesday by people trying to register for on-demand vaccine shots for their children. By 4 a.m., hundreds had already lined up in front of the Thua Thien-Hue Center for Disease Control in Phu Nhuan District of the namesake central province. The center had imported 1,100 doses in total, 1,000 of a 6-in-1 vaccine and 100 of a 5-in-1 vaccine. "Ive been in front of the centers gate since 4:30 a.m., but many were already there by then," said Phu Van Binh, who went to register vaccine shots for his seven-year-old daughter. At 6 a.m., when the center opened its gates, many resorted to climbing the fences to get in, to get past the long lines. However, vaccine registrations ended one and a half hours later, with the center announcing that all 1,100 doses have been registered and the rest should wait for the next batch of vaccines. The number of people signing up for on-demand 6-in-1 vaccination, as opposed to government-subsidized 5-in-1 shots, has markedly increased since earlier this year, said Nguyen Dinh Son, vice director of the center. In previous years, the number of people who signed up for on-demand 6-in-1 vaccination in Thua Thien-Hue only accounted for 5 percent of all vaccinations in the province, with most of the rest opting for government-subsidized vaccines instead. "We prepared 1,100 on-demand vaccine doses but they were not enough for the people of Thua Thien-Hue and neighboring provinces. We allow registrations today, but not until next week will actual vaccinations take place. We plan to import 1,300 more vaccine doses in June," Son added. Vaccine shortage however, especially on-demand ones, is a recurring problem that the Ministry of Health has yet to deal with properly, said Nguyen Tien Hong, deputy director of Da Nangs Department of Health. In March, pandemonium also ensued at the Da Nang Center for Disease Control in the nearby city when parents tried to secure numbered tokens for 6-in-1 vaccinations for their kids. As it happened in Hue, in just hours from 6 a.m., all vaccine shots available ran out. Vaccine scares Some people have claimed that government-subsidized vaccines cause more side-effects on recipients than on-demand ones, said Pham Van Lao, director of the Center for Preventive Medicine of the Central Highlands province of Dak Lak, Nhan Dan newspaper reported. "Ive heard about how the 5-in-1 vaccine ComBE Five, part of the government-subsidized vaccines, caused several problems... So I wanted to give my child on-demand 6-in-1 vaccines instead," said Nguyen Thi Huong, who lives in Dak Laks Cu Kuin District. The 5-in-1 vaccine ComBE Five, developed by India, has been chosen as a government-subsidized vaccine by the health ministry since last December to replace the South Korea-produced Quinvaxem. The 5-in-1 vaccine protects against diphtheria, whooping cough, tetanus, hepatitis B and Haemophilus influenzae type B. Five million shots are given to about 1.7 Vietnamese children under one-year-old every year. Quinvaxem, however, became infamous after more than 10 babies died between November 2012 and May 2013 after being injected, and several more also died when the vaccine was reintroduced in October 2013. However, the health ministry has said that the vaccine was not to blame for the deaths. In January, a two-month-old baby in Hanoi also died a day after being injected with ComBE Five. It was said later that her death was caused by anaphylaxis. ComBE Five is a DPT vaccine, which belongs to a class of combination vaccines against diphtheria, whooping cough and tetanus. It contains diphtheria and tetanus toxoids, along with killed whole cells of Bordetella pertussis, the bacteria that causes whooping cough. It is the cellular nature of the whooping cough bacterium that triggers more side effects in children injected with ComBE Five, said Nguyen Xuan Tung, head of the Vaccination Management and Biosafety Department of the Preventative Medicine Division. The 6-in-1vaccine shot, for protection against diphtheria, whooping cough, tetanus, hepatitis B, Haemophilus influenzae type B and polio, uses purified antigens in its whooping cough component which are considered to be safer. However, the chances for side-effects to appear are slim. Out of a million vaccine doses, only 20 give recipients severe reactions like high fever or convulsions, according to the World Health Organization. Parents should carefully watch their children for at least 24 hours after a vaccination to watch out for possible side effects, doctors have recommended. Nguyen Van Dong (R) and Le Xuan Dung at a trial in Dak Lak Province on Wednesday. Photo courtesy of Dak Lak police Two Vietnamese men have been sentenced to 12 years in prison each for tricking and selling four local women to China. Nguyen Van Dong, 26, and his brother-in-law Le Xuan Dung, 23, of Dak Nong Province in the Central Highlands were sentenced by a court in neighboring Dak Lak on Wednesday. The indictment said that in October, 2017, a woman identified only as Dao Thi Theu invited Dong to join her in tricking and selling Vietnamese women to China where they would become wives of Chinese men, media reports said. Dong was promised VND25 million (over $1,000) for every woman he procured for the ring. Dong asked Dung to join him. The two either used Facebook to talk with the women or introduced themselves as mobile phone salesmen recruiting staff for their teams. Dung befriended HNgan Adrong, 27, an ethnic minority woman in Dak Lak Province. On March 8 last year, Dung and Dong took HNgan up north to Lang Son Province on the Chinese border. They handed her over to a Vietnamese man, identified only as Quan. Quan took HNgan to Theu in China. Theu gave HNgan to an intermediary, whom police have not able to identify. Eventually H'Ngan was sold to a Chinese man as a wife for VND90 million ($3,850). HNgan escaped shortly after, but she ran into Theu again, who sold her to another Chinese man for VND105 million. HNgan escaped again and this time, succeeded in returning to Vietnam. As of going to press, however, there was no further information on whether H'Ngan had borne any child for the Chinese "husband." Other details of her escape have also not been revealed. Using the same modus-operandi, in April and May last year, Dung and Dong coordinated with Theu to sell three more ethnic women in Daklak, HNhung Hlong, 19, HHuong Kbrong, 33, and HDoal Eban, 24, to China. Five days after being taken to China, the three girls were rescued by local police and sent back home. In those three cases, Dong and Dung were paid VND57 million each. The two also told the court that they had sold Giang Ra Phuong, a 19-year-old girl from the southern province of Kien Giang and another named Thuy, whose identify and background is still unknown, to China. Police are still investigating those two cases. Aside from 12 years in jail, Dong and Dung have been asked to pay a total of VND132 million to their victims. As reported earlier, Vietnamese girls and women are being sold to Chinese men who are either old or poor to afford a local wife, and some poor women are even lured to sell newborns to Chinese persons. Data from the Ministry of Public Security shows that between 2010 and the third quarter of last year, Vietnam recorded over 3,000 human trafficking cases, in which 4,500 traffickers traded almost 7,000 victims, mostly women and children in poor and rural areas. A majority of them were sold to men seeking wives in China, Malaysia and South Korea, or just to bear children or forced into prostitution. Many of the victims were approached through social networks like Facebook and Zalo. Besides financial difficulties of the victims, police officers have said that negligence, easy immigration procedures and gender imbalance in destination countries are responsible for the surge in human trafficking. Britain's Prince Harry and his wife Meghan announced on Wednesday they had named their newborn son Archie. In a post on their Instagram account accompanying a picture of the parents with Queen Elizabeth, her husband Prince Philip and Meghan's mother Doria Ragland, the couple said the seventh-in-line to the British throne would be known as Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor. The announcement came hours after the new royal got his first taste of life in the limelight as Meghan and Harry appeared with him before a small group of media at St George's Hall in Windsor castle where they held their wedding reception just under a year ago, saying their "little bundle of joy" was magic. Harry tightly cradled his son, wrapped in a white shawl and wearing a hat. "It's magic - it's pretty amazing and I have the two best guys in the world so I am really happy," said a beaming Meghan, wearing a white sleeveless coat dress, when asked how she was finding being a new mother. She said the boy, the seventh-in-line to the British throne who has not yet been publicly named, was calm, had the sweetest temperament and was sleeping well. "He's just been the dream," she said, prompting Harry to quip: "I don't know who he gets that from." Archie was born in the early hours of Monday morning, weighing 7 lb 3oz (3.26 kg), but few other details have been given about the birth. "It's great, parenting is amazing," Harry said. "It's only been two-and-a-half days, three days, but we're just so thrilled to have our own little bundle of joy, to be able to spend some precious time with him as he slowly starts to grow up." Britain's Prince Harry and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, are seen with their baby son, who was born on Monday morning at Windsor Castle in Berkshire, Britain May 8, 2019. Photo handed out by Reuters After the brief photocall, the couple took their baby to see 93-year-old Elizabeth, the world's longest-reigning monarch, to allow her to meet her eighth great-grandchild. Meghan's mother is staying with the couple at their home Frogmore Cottage, on the castle's estate. "It will a nice moment to introduce the baby to more family and my mum's with us as well," Meghan, 37, said. Britain's royal family attracts huge fascination and there is particular interest in Harry and former U.S. actress Meghan, who are officially known as the Duke and Duchess of Sussex. A British and U.S. citizen? Given their worldwide popularity, the birth of their first child has attracted particular attention, especially as Archie is first mixed race child to be born into a senior position in British royalty in recent history. He is also entitled to hold U.S. citizenship while also automatically being a British national. However, the baby will not automatically be a prince or a princess, or be known as "His Royal Highness", unless the queen issues a specific decree. Britain's Prince Harry and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex are joined by her mother Doria Ragland, as they show their new son, born on Monday and named Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor to the Queen Elizabeth II and the Duke of Edinburgh at at Windsor Castle. Photo handed out via Reuters Congratulations to the new parents have poured in from celebrities and world leaders. Harry's father, the heir-to-the-throne Prince Charles expressed his joy at the arrival of his fourth grandson on Tuesday, while elder brother Prince William and his wife Kate said they were absolutely thrilled at the news. "Thank you all so much, and thank you everybody for all the well-wishes and the kindness, it just means so much," Meghan said. Archie, one of the 20 most popular names for baby boys in Britain, was not among any of the names being tipped by bookmakers and Harrison is another break with those traditionally given to British royals.Some commentators have argued that the birth marks another milestone in the gradual modernisation of the almost thousand-year-old monarchy. "You are the first child in almost three centuries to bring Africa back into the royal gene pool," Trevor Phillips, the former head of Britain's Equality and Human Rights Commission, wrote in an open letter to the newborn. "You are seventh in line to the throne and everything you bring with you will now be part of the public life of our nation." However, not everyone has been happy with the way the couple have handled the publicity around the birth and how much information has been given to the media. Harry has never made a secret of his dislike of the press since his mother Princess Diana was killed in a crash in 1997 as her car sped away from chasing photographers. "Choosing a U.S. Network ... is treading on dodgy ground," the queen's former press secretary Dickie Arbiter wrote on Twitter about the decision to have a U.S. TV crew in the small group invited to cover Wednesday's event. However, Harry was more than happy to help out the media as he showed off Archie, cracking a joke as he pulled back the blanket to allow cameras to get a better look at his son. "He's already got a little bit of facial hair as well - wonderful," joked the bearded prince. The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS McCampbell and the Royal Navy Type 23 Duke Class guided-missile frigate HMS Argyll maneuver during a divisional tactics exercise in the South China Sea, January 15, 2019. Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class John Harris/U.S. Navy/Handout via Reuters A U.S. guided missile destroyer conducted drills with a Japanese aircraft carrier, two Indian naval ships and a Philippine patrol vessel in the waterway claimed by China. While similar exercises have been held in the South China Sea in the past, the combined display by four countries represents a fresh challenge to Beijing as U.S. President Donald Trump threatens to hike tariffs on $200 billion worth of Chinese goods. "Professional engagements with our allies, partners and friends in the region are opportunities to build upon our existing, strong relationships," Commander Andrew J. Klug, the captain of the U.S. destroyer, the USS William P. Lawrence, said in a statement. Japan sent one of its two big aircraft carriers, the Izumo, while India deployed a destroyer, the INS Kolkata, and a tanker, the INS Shakti. The week of joint drills, which ended Wednesday, comes after two other U.S. warships sailed near islands in the region claimed by China on Monday, prompting a protest from Beijing, which said the action infringed its sovereignty. The U.S. Navy says it conducts such freedom of navigation operations in international waters around the world, even in seas claimed by its allies, without political considerations. China claims almost all of the strategic South China Sea with Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Taiwan pushing competing claims to parts of the maritime region. Vietnam, which calls the waters the East Sea, has repeatedly asserted its sovereignty over the waters. The United States, Japan and India do not have any territorial claims there. In a separate challenge to Beijing in Asian waters, the USS William P. Lawrence and another U.S. destroyer sailed through the Taiwan Strait in April separating Taiwan, which Beijing views as a rogue province, from the Chinese mainland. AllEarth Renewables, Inc. of Williston VT., announced today (5/8) that Evan Blittersdorf will join the company serving in the role of Business Development Analyst. Evan comes to the company as a lifelong renewable energy enthusiast who recently received a Global Master of Business Administration degree (MBA) from Korea University in Seoul, South Korea. Evan's initial focus will be on administering the Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) program for AllEarth Services, the financial services division of AllEarth Renewables. AllEarth Services was the first company in Vermont to offer a solar PPA. For over 9 years, the business has financed AllEarth Solar Trackers for Vermont homeowners, businesses, schools, towns, and non-profits. Committed to local, affordable, renewable energy for all, AllEarth Services currently owns 748 solar trackers, responsible for 4,490 DC Kw of energy production. Evan grew up in Charlotte, VT, the son of AllEarth founder David Blittersdorf. He graduated from Champlain Valley High School, and received a Bachelor's Degree in Philosophy from UVM. His interests in geo-politics, philosophy, and other global issues led him to travel, and eventually to South Korea. Here, he spent time teaching English, freelancing, and intensively studying to become fluent in Korean, before successfully pursuing his MBA. His time overseas gave him a fresh perspective on the complexity and interconnectedness of global energy issues, and the urgency with which other nations around the world are moving to combat climate change. Following graduation, Evan was excited to return home to put his passion and experience to work supporting AllEarth's mission of reducing carbon emissions. Evan is the proud owner of a three solar tracker array in Fairfield, VT, which provides clean, affordable, local energy to the Town of Fairfax and the Fairfax Fire Department. "I was very fortunate to grow up in a family that valued being good stewards of our environment, and understood that the way we currently use energy is doing irreparable harm to our planet," said Evan. "My time abroad reinforced the urgency of combating the carbon emissions crisis, and perspective on how the rest of the world is adapting and evolving. Climate change is the critical issue of our time, and I feel privileged to be working for a company that is helping provide innovative solutions to our energy challenges." PHOTO: Picture of Evan Blittersdorf About AllEarth Renewables Headquartered in Williston, Vermont, AllEarth Renewables is dedicated to bringing clean, renewable energy to businesses, farms, municipalities and homeowners to help lessen our nation's dependence on fossil fuels and reduce green-house gas emissions. The company brings new, more efficient energy solutions to market - from community wind farms to solar generation and community passenger rail transportation. AllEarth Renewables is the creator and manufacturer of the AllEarth Solar Tracker, an industry leading dual-axis solar tracker that uses innovative GPS and wireless technology to follow the sun throughout the day, producing up to 45 percent more energy than rooftop solar. The company has manufactured and installed more than 6,000 solar tracker systems used for residential and commercial installations around the country. For more information visit www.allearthrenewables.com. ORPC, Inc., in the business of improving people's lives and their environment through sustainable energy solutions, is pleased to announce it is now offering tailored leasing solutions to its customers through an exclusive relationship with Warbird Capital LLC, a private investment firm specializing in financing solutions for asset-heavy enterprises, including those in the transportation, energy, specialty metals and equipment markets. Warbird Capital also invests in disruptive technologies in those arenas. Nicholas Pastushan, founder and CEO of Warbird Capital said, "We look forward to working closely with ORPC and its customers to make it easier to benefit from ORPC's no-carbon, microgrid energy solutions. Our leasing option will utilize any available subsidy programs, grants and other sources of low-cost financing as part of an affordable structured solution for ORPC customers." ORPC Chairman, Co-founder and CEO, Chris Sauer, added "We are thrilled to be working with Warbird Capital to offer communities a leasing option for comprehensive renewable energy solutions incorporating our RivGen Power System with smart grid electronics and energy storage to build the no-carbon microgrids of the future. The RivGen Power System is a big step into the future of sustainability for nearly 2 billion mostly indigenous people worldwide who live in remote, off-grid communities, 700 million of whom currently rely on very expensive, environmentally-risky diesel fuel to power their homes." In April, ORPC unveiled its first commercial RivGen Power System with the help of Maine Governor Janet Mills at Brunswick Landing, Brunswick, Maine. This first commercial system is in route to Alaska for installation in the Kvichak River and will provide electricity to the remote community of Igiugig, offsetting the village's diesel fuel use by up to one-half and moving it closer to using diesel fuel for emergency-backup only. ORPC is also progressing with a growth capital offering via Netcapital. A portion of the raise is reserved for Main Street investors, though primarily directed at impact and institutional investors under the SEC's Crowdfunding rules adopted under the JOBS Act. Worldwide, ORPC is the only company to have built, operated and delivered power to a utility grid from a renewable tidal energy project (in Maine), and to a remote community grid from a renewable river project (in Alaska). In addition to its Portland, Maine, company headquarters, ORPC has offices in Montreal (ORPC Canada) and Dublin (ORPC Ireland), an operations center in Eastport, Maine, and a project office in Anchorage, Alaska. For more information, visit www.orpc.co. The Igiugig RivGen Project is supported in part by the U.S. Department of Energy's Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE) under the Water Power Technologies Office Award Number DE-EE0007348 to the Igiugig Village Council. Nicholas Pastushan founded Warbird Capital in 2015. He is former Chief Investment Officer of CIT Transportation Finance, where he managed $20 billion in transportation leases and loans. Previously Nicholas was at GE Capital Aviation Services, the largest commercial air lending and leasing operation in the world with over $50 billion in assets. For more information, visit www.warbirdcap.com. Contact Susy Kist MANAGER MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS 207-772-7707 OFFICE 207-272-8615 MOBILE ET reported net income attributable to partners for the three months ended March 31, 2019 of $870 million, an increase of $507 million compared to the three months ended March 31, 2018. For the prior period, net income attributable to partners continues to reflect only the amount of net income attributable to the legacy Energy Transfer LP partners prior to the simplification merger transaction of ET and Energy Transfer Operating, L.P. ("ETO") on October 19, 2018 (the "Merger"). Adjusted EBITDA for the three months ended March 31, 2019 was $2.80 billion, an increase of $795 million compared to the three months ended March 31, 2018. Results were supported by increases in all of the Partnership's five core segments, with record operating performance in the Partnership's NGL and refined products and crude businesses. Distributable Cash Flow attributable to partners, as adjusted, for the three months ended March 31, 2019 was a record $1.66 billion, an increase of $461 million compared to the three months ended March 31, 2018. The increase was primarily due to the increase in Adjusted EBITDA. Key accomplishments and current developments: Operational ET is currently progressing with plans on a Bakken pipeline optimization project, which is targeted to start up in 2020. ET is currently expanding its Permian Express pipeline system by an incremental 120,000 barrels per day. The Permian Express 4 expansion is expected to be in-service by the end of the third quarter of 2019. ET and Phillips 66 Partners LP ("PSXP") launched a non-binding expansion open season in April 2019 for expanded joint tariff transportation service connecting into Bayou Bridge. ET and PSXP announced in March 2019 that the second phase of the Bayou Bridge pipeline was complete and ready for service. Strategic ET and Shell US LNG, LLC initiated an invitation to tender to solicit engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) bids for the Lake Charles LNG liquefaction project in May 2019. ET announced an expanded presence in China to meet growing demand for LNG and NGL products by opening an office in Beijing in April 2019. ET signed a non-binding letter of intent with Sunoco LP to enter into a joint venture on a diesel fuel pipeline to West Texas. ET sold a 30 percent interest in Red Bluff Express pipeline to a subsidiary of Western Midstream Partners LP. Financial In April 2019, ET announced a quarterly distribution of $0.305 per unit ($1.220 annualized) on ET common units for the quarter ended March 31, 2019. The distribution coverage ratio for the first quarter of 2019 is 2.07x. ETO issued 32 million of its 7.600% Series E Preferred Units in April 2019 for gross proceeds of $800 million, primarily replacing debt and efficiently improving leverage metrics. In March 2019, ET and ETO completed a debt exchange whereby ETO issued $4.21 billion aggregate principal amount of senior notes in exchange for settling approximately 97% of ET's outstanding senior notes. As of March 31, 2019, ETO's $6.00 billion revolving credit facilities had an aggregate $4.15 billion of available capacity, and ETO's leverage ratio, as defined by its credit agreement, was 3.82x. ET benefits from a portfolio of assets with exceptional product and geographic diversity. The Partnership's multiple segments generate high-quality, balanced earnings with no single segment contributing more than 30 percent of the Partnership's consolidated Adjusted EBITDA for the three months ended March 31, 2019. The great majority of the Partnership's segment margins are fee-based and therefore have limited commodity price sensitivity. Energy Transfer LP (NYSE: ET) owns and operates one of the largest and most diversified portfolios of energy assets in the United States, with a strategic footprint in all of the major U.S. production basins. ET is a publicly traded limited partnership with core operations that include complementary natural gas midstream, intrastate and interstate transportation and storage assets; crude oil, natural gas liquids (NGL) and refined product transportation and terminalling assets; NGL fractionation; and various acquisition and marketing assets. ET, through its ownership of Energy Transfer Operating, L.P., formerly known as Energy Transfer Partners, L.P., also owns the general partner interests, the incentive distribution rights and 28.5 million common units of Sunoco LP (NYSE: SUN), and the general partner interests and 39.7 million common units of USA Compression Partners, LP (NYSE: USAC). For more information, visit the Energy Transfer LP website at www.energytransfer.com. Sunoco LP (NYSE: SUN) is a master limited partnership that distributes motor fuel to approximately 10,000 convenience stores, independent dealers, commercial customers and distributors located in more than 30 states. Sunoco's general partner is owned by Energy Transfer Operating, L.P., a subsidiary of Energy Transfer LP (NYSE: ET). For more information, visit the Sunoco LP website at www.sunocolp.com. USA Compression Partners, LP (NYSE: USAC) is a growth-oriented Delaware limited partnership that is one of the nation's largest independent providers of compression services in terms of total compression fleet horsepower. USAC partners with a broad customer base composed of producers, processors, gatherers and transporters of natural gas and crude oil. USAC focuses on providing compression services to infrastructure applications primarily in high-volume gathering systems, processing facilities and transportation applications. For more information, visit the USAC website at www.usacompression.com. Forward-Looking Statements This news release may include certain statements concerning expectations for the future that are forward-looking statements as defined by federal law. Such forward-looking statements are subject to a variety of known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors that are difficult to predict and many of which are beyond management's control. An extensive list of factors that can affect future results are discussed in the Partnership's Annual Report on Form 10-K and other documents filed from time to time with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The Partnership undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement to reflect new information or events. The information contained in this press release is available on our website at www.energytransfer.com. Read the full press release. SMUD line workers are helping to begin electrifying thousands of homes in the Navajo Nation, located in parts of Arizona, New Mexico and Utah. The crew loaded up their rigs and hit the road on April 26. They'll work two weeks there, until May 11, and then return to Sacramento. The work is SMUD's part of the "Light Up Navajo" initiative, a pilot effort organized by the American Public Power association (APPA) to begin electrifying Navajo households that have never had electric power. SMUD volunteered to join crews from other community-owned electric utilities across the nation for "Light Up Navajo" to support electrification efforts by the Navajo Tribal Utility Authority, the public power utility serving the Navajo Nation. Public power utilities across the country, including SMUD, are sending crews to build electric lines for 15 projects that will begin to connect homes, which have no power, for the first time to the grid. The pilot effort will serve as a model for future electrification projects that will eventually help connect all the Navajo Nation's residents to electric service. Of the 55,000 homes located on the 27,000 square mile Navajo Nation (roughly the size of West Virginia), approximately 15,000 homes do not have electricity. These represent 75 percent of all U.S. households that do not have electricity. "Through this partnership, SMUD will help improve the lives of Navajo families, many of whom will be connected to the electric grid for the very first time," said SMUD Chief Energy Delivery Officer Frankie McDermott. "We anticipate that Light Up Navajo will serve as a successful model for continued efforts to turn on the lights for all Navajo homes that hope to connect to the grid." Not having access to electricity obviously has many repercussions for Navajo families. One of the harshest being lack of access to running water. Families drive more than an hour once or twice a week to fill 250-gallon plastic tanks with water for cooking, cleaning and drinking. Not having electricity has also deprived Navajo families of reliable lighting and modern appliances such as refrigerators, toasters and microwaves. "It is shocking that in this day and age, there are still so many homes in the U.S. without electricity," said Mike Hyland, senior vice president, engineering and operations, at the American Public Power Association. "The Navajo Tribal Utility Authority has worked hard in recent years to power 3,000 homes. Now, with help from the national public power community, they can do much more. We are touched by the support being offered from so many of our member utilities." Utility crews from volunteering community-owned public power utilities started work in the Navajo Nation earlier in April, with others rotating through to relieve them and continue the ongoing work. The project is expected to be completed by May 18. While Light Up Navajo depends on volunteering utilities to accomplish the mission, the initiative relies on donations and accepts cash or material donations via publicpower.org/donate-light-navajo. About APPA The American Public Power Association is the voice of not-for-profit, community-owned utilities that power 2,000 towns and cities nationwide. We represent public power before the federal government to protect the interests of the more than 49 million people that public power utilities serve, and the 93,000 people they employ. Our association advocates and advises on electricity policy, technology, trends, training, and operations. Our members strengthen their communities by providing superior service, engaging citizens, and instilling pride in community-owned power. For more information, visit publicpower.org. About SMUD As the nation's sixth-largest community-owned electric service provider, SMUD has been providing low-cost, reliable electricity for more than 70 years to Sacramento County (and small adjoining portions of Placer and Yolo Counties). SMUD is a recognized industry leader and award winner for its innovative energy efficiency programs, renewable power technologies, and for its sustainable solutions for a healthier environment. SMUD's power mix is about 50 percent non-carbon emitting. For more information, visit smud.org. ELKO A new, red trailer has been spotted around town at events and on the corner of Commercial and Fifth streets. I thought Elko and New York City had very little in common. Now this small western cow town and the metropolitan cornerstone of the East Coast share an American icon. A hot dog stand has opened for business and business is good, according to owner Russell Mistretta. Its been a longtime dream of mine, said Mistretta in a Long Island accent. I traveled all the way to Tennessee to buy this [vending truck]. We did 12 states, 4,500 miles in six days. My son loved it. The dream of owning ones own business is about as American as the hot dog and Mistretta is a classic example of someone who has worked hard and saved to build that vision. He worked as a cab driver for 27 years in New York, Las Vegas and Elko. Mistretta ordered the truck in 2017. It is custom-designed for selling hot dogs. The small wagon has two coolers, four burners and all the other necessary equipment for preparing hot dogs. Mistretta started with a trial event in Spring Creek on July 4. Now he is open five days a week and does special events, locations and birthday parties other times during the week. He travels to Winnemucca this Saturday. Ive got the Lamoille Fair and the Mining Expo and the Spring Creek Marina, Mistretta said. Ruby Mountain Hot Dogs serves all-beef products with combinations of the customers choice such as sweet or dill relish, onions, jalapenos, cheese, chili and sauerkraut. Of course, mustard catsup and mayo are always available. Mistretta also sells combos that include chips and a drink. He sees a future with corn dogs and waffles-on-a-stick. He may even do a dog-of-the-week. You can get a hot dog, a bag of chips and a soda for $5, Mistretta said. Regular customer Mike Abshire loves the hot dog wagon. Abshire said his family raised hogs in Idaho and a lot of their meat went to Independent Meat Company in Twin Falls. As a kickback, we got a certain percentage of our hogs back and we would always do the hot dogs, said Abshire. So, Ive had a fascination with hot dogs since I was knee-high to a grasshopper. Abshire ordered a chefs special, letting Mistretta make up a whopper of a dog with chili, cheese, onions and jalapenos. I have one guy who comes and when he buys hot dogs he buys eight at a time, Mistretta said. And he eats them all. During the summer Mistretta hopes to increase the hours he is located downtown. He is even thinking about buying a second truck next year. Ruby Mountain Hot Dogs are the best, Abshire said. Love 15 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 2 Be the first to know Get local news delivered to your inbox! Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. May 8 Adan E. Barajas, 22, of Elko was arrested on Bullion Road on a warrant for failure to appear after bail on a misdemeanor crime. Bail: $500 William D. Bone, 50, of Midvale, Utah was arrested at the Wendover Nugget on a warrant for failure to appear after bail on a misdemeanor crime. Bail: $605 Jaime Garcia-Hernandez, 24, of Salt Lake City was arrested at Elko County Jail for fugitive felon from another state. No bail Ronald E. Marshall Jr., 39, of Carlin was arrested at the Elko County Sheriffs Office on a warrant for failure to appear after bail on a misdemeanor crime. Bail: $680 Brandi L. McNamara, 29, of Elko was arrested at Idaho Street and Mountain City Highway for speeding 11-15 mph over limit, no seatbelt, and driving with a suspended drivers license. Bail: $745 Dillon R. Papach, 29, of Elko was arrested on Bullion Road on a warrant for two counts of failure to appear after bail on a misdemeanor crime. Bail: $1,205 Tiffany L. Ramirez, 33, of Elko was arrested at 276 S. Fourth St. on a warrant for petit larceny. Bail: $1,140 Ronald E. Rutherford, 54, of Tenino, Washington was arrested at 6333 Jacinto Drive on a warrant for failure to appear after bail on a misdemeanor crime. Bail: $375 Rick L. Sandman, 72, was arrested at 1400 Mountain City Highway on two criminal justice detainers. Bail: $1,220 Tonya A. Smith, 46, of Washington, Utah was arrested at the Wendover Nugget for trespassing. Bail: $355 Johnny D. Sotelo, 30, of Elko was arrested at 536 Morse Lane for destroying the property of another. Bail: $1,140 Kenton B. Withers, 29, of Spring Creek was arrested at Gold Dust West for felony possession of a controlled substance, trespassing, and violation of probation or condition of suspended sentence. No bail The charges above do not imply guilt. Under the law, everyone is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court. Love 0 Funny 1 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 In August 2011, a team of archeologists found a baby rattle inside a grave dating back to the Spanish Civil War. The flower-shaped toy was found lying next to a body that had been covered with quicklime and buried without a coffin. The scientists were divided: could this object really be from 1936? It seemed like a joke, recalls Almudena Garcia-Rubio, an anthropologist at the Aranzadi Science Society who was there that day. The teams mission was disturbing enough as it was: they were looking for 250 victims of the Franco regimes repression under a childrens playground at La Carcavilla park, in the city of Palencia, in northern Spain. The municipal cemetery had once been located here. The rattle was handed over to Fermin Leizaola, an ethnographer who cut off a section of the toy and brought it close to a flame. The fragment quickly caught fire, leaving behind a characteristic smell of camphor. This proved that it was made of celluloid, a plastic developed in 1870 and widely used in everyday objects until the 1970s. The toy could indeed date back to the Civil War. Martin de la Torre Munoz, Catalina's son, flanked by his daughter Martina (left) and his wife Francisca Atienza. Victor Sainz This is the most striking and moving object that ever came out of a Civil War grave, says Garcia-Rubio, noting that no other similar artifact has been found in the nearly 600 graves that have been opened in Spain so far. The toy and the story behind it also helped a family learn new facts about events that had been buried away for decades. Records from Palencias old cemetery showed that the body was that of Catalina Munoz Arranz, a 37-year-old woman from Cevico de la Torre, a village located 30 kilometers from the provincial capital. She had four children when she was killed. The youngest was nine months old, and he was probably the owner of the rattle. That baby is now an 83-year-old man who lives in a humble home on the main street in Cevico de la Torre, which has a population of around 400. He does not say much, stares straight ahead, and his hands are thick from a lifetime of manual labor that began at age eight. I was a shepherd boy and later I worked in the fields. I never went to school, he says, speaking inside the kitchen of a house that he shares with his wife and his daughter Martina, 56. Lucia Munoz, Catalina's daughter, now lives at a senior residence in Cevico de la Torre. Victor Sainz I dont remember anything about my mother, he adds. I dont even know what her face was like, because we dont have any photographs of her. Its sad. After his mothers death, Martin was raised by an aunt who also lived in the village. His father, Tomas de la Torre, was in prison on charges of murdering a supporter of the fascist-inspired political party Falange during a village brawl on May 3, 1936. He was sentenced to 17 years, but his wife suffered a worse fate. She was arrested on August 24, a little over a month after Francisco Francos uprising. She was tried at a court-martial where the mayor and two neighbors testified that they had seen her going to demonstrations, washing the blood off her husbands clothes, cheering for Russia and booing the Civil Guard. She reportedly said: Well win yet, and were going to cut you into little pieces. Catalina did not know how to read or write, according to the records of the trial, which are kept at the military archives in Ferrol. Her file describes her as a woman standing 1.51 meters tall, with dark eyes and hair, nicknamed Pitilina. On September 5, 1936 she testified and signed a statement admitting that she had been to demonstrations, but denying all the other charges. The baby rattle found next to Catalina's body. Sociedad de Ciencias Aranzadi Despite the lack of evidence, the court found her guilty of military rebellion, and sentenced her to death. She was executed on September 22 at 5.30pm [...] from injuries caused by gunfire to her skull and chest, the records read. This description fits neatly with the bone analysis conducted in 2011 by the anthropologists who dug up the body. Next to the bones there were also buttons and the rubber soles of her shoes, size 36. Just a few meters down the road from Martins house, a senior residence is home to the only relative who still remembers Catalina: her daughter Lucia, sister to Martin. Now 94 years old, her memory is somewhat fragile and her hands are as broad as her brothers. Sitting inside the visitors room, she recalls the day their mother was arrested. She ran outside with the baby and fell down in the backyard of a house, and they went to get her. She was wearing a black apron to cover herself. Its all she had when she left the house, says Lucia, who does not remember seeing her mother with a baby rattle, but who believes it was probably tucked inside the apron pocket. Catalina Munoz's name on a memorial to the victims of the Franco repression in Palencia. Victor Sainz She was very hot-tempered, Im like her in that way. If somebody ever said something to her... get ready. And thats why they killed her. For the last few weeks Ive been crying, thinking about it. Lucia was 11 when her mother was executed. Her grandfather took her in, and she began working as a house servant for the villages wealthier residents. But the family could not afford a burial in Cevico. Of the hundred or so women who were murdered during the early months of the war in that area, Catalina Munoz is the only one who was tried and sentenced to death. The rest were taken out for a paseo, says Pablo Garcia-Colmenares, a chair of contemporary history at Valladolid University and president of the Association for the Recovery of Historical Memory in Palencia (ARMH). The paseos, literally strolls, were a euphemism used during the war when people would be taken out of their homes for a walk that ended in summary executions outside of town. A body in La Andaya (Burgos) wearing a ring on the left hand. Luis Rios When Martins father was released from prison, he went to work in the Basque city of Bilbao. After retirement, he returned to Cevico and spent the last eight years of his life there. The family never discussed what had happened, and Martin never asked about his mother to prevent painful memories from resurfacing. Martin did not even know that his mother had been buried in Palencia, and only recently saw a photograph of the toy that she took to the grave. Since nobody showed up to claim the body when the new cemetery was built, her remains were transferred there along with other victims of repression, but in a separate box. After learning about the rattle, Martins daughter Martina began the paperwork to recover Catalinas body as well as the toy. Martina recently visited Palencia for the first time, and saw her grandmothers name engraved on a monolith at La Carcavilla park that serves as a memorial to the victims of the Civil War. She now wants to keep the rattle inside an urn so that her own children and grandchildren will know the story. This wedding ring allowed archeologists to identify Tomas Requejo, a deputy mayor of Aranda del Duero who was executed in 1936. Luis Rios When I saw Catalinas name engraved on the monolith, I had a strange empty feeling inside of me, but at the same time I am very happy to be able to get my grandmother back and take her next to my grandfather. I dont think he is to blame for what happened to her, as people thought, he turned himself in to protect her, as an act of love, says Martina. She says that her father has been reduced to tears by the story, and hopes that he will not die before Catalinas body is returned to them. Small treasures Objects like the rattle are small treasures to contemporary archeologists, who apply scientific methods to the study of material recovered from the recent past. Sometimes, wedding rings and military insignia are clues that help identify the victims. Personal objects recovered near the bodies allow us to get close to the everyday lives of executed individuals, writes Garcia-Rubio in her book Mujeres en la Guerra Civil y la posguerra. Memoria y Educacion (or, Women in the Civil War and postwar period. Memory and Education). A pencil, a pair of glasses, a comb, a newspaper clipping with a story about the 1936 Tour de France... They are flashes of the lives of the victims, carried in their pockets at the time of their arrest. Alfredo Gonzalez-Ruibal, an archeologist at the Scientific Research Council (CSIC) who has been digging at Civil War trenches and concentration camps for years, has recovered tens of thousands of objects that sum up the conflict in their own way. There are medals, crosses, perfume bottles, high-heeled shoes, and many kilograms of shrapnel and ammunition. The power of this type of archeology is not to retell an event that is already known, but to synthesize a moment in history through an image, said Gonzalez-Ruibal at a recent talk at the National Archeology Museum, where he said that Catalinas baby rattle is one of the objects that best encapsulates the story of the Spanish Civil War. English version by Susana Urra. Elliott Abrams, the US special representative for Venezuela. ERIK S. LESSER (EFE) The United States has reacted to Spains criticism of the way it is handling the ongoing crisis in Venezuela, where a recent attempt by interim president Juan Guaido to lead a military uprising against the government of Nicolas Maduro failed, triggering further violence. Speaking on the state-owned broadcaster TVE, Spanish Foreign Minister Josep Borrell on Wednesday said that the US is acting like the cowboys in the Far West, saying careful or Ill draw. He warned that the solution to the Venezuelan crisis can only be peaceful, negotiated and democratic. In statements to EL PAIS, the US Special Representative for Venezuela, Elliott Abrams, has defended his governments tough talk against the pressure from other countries that support Maduro, such as Russia and Cuba. A woman demonstrates outside the Venezuelan Navy command headquarters on May 4. JUAN BARRETO (AFP) Abrams said that there is already a military intervention in Venezuela, by Cuba. The special representative said that Maduros bodyguards are from Cuba, and that Russia is evidently getting more deeply involved, as it recently sent 100 soldiers to the South American nation. It is wrong to think that [interim president Juan] Guaido will be able to deal with the Russians and the Cubans, and that is something in which the US will have to have a role, said Abrams. To make it clear that Russia will not have freedom of action in Venezuela is a responsible statement, not cowboy diplomacy. National Assembly President Juan Guaido was recognized as the interim president of Venezuela by the US in January. Around 50 countries have since followed suit, including Spain. But so far he has been unable to rally enough support from the military or the population to force out Maduro. On the day of the failed attempt at a military uprising, another leading dissident, Leopoldo Lopez, made a surprise appearance next to Guaido despite being formally under house arrest. Lopez subsequently took refuge at the residence of the Spanish ambassador in Caracas, pushing Spain into a bigger role in the crisis. The US government has repeatedly said that it is not ruling out military intervention in Venezuela, but it has yet to define the red line that would trigger such a move. Canada and Europe support Guaido but reject the military option. English version by Susana Urra. Acting PM Pedro Sanchez. Zipi (EFE) In the wake of the April 28 Spanish general election, the new political term appears set to begin the way it ended: with huge tensions between acting Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez and Catalan pro-independence parties. Spaniards were called to the polls late last month after the Socialist Party (PSOE) chief Pedro Sanchez who came to power last June off the back of a successful vote of no-confidence against former PM Mariano Rajoy failed to garner the cross-party support he needed to get his budget plan passed by Congress. The Catalan parties are threatening to cause more trouble for Sanchez, even before a government has been formed The PSOE was in a delicate position, with just 84 deputies in a lower house were 176 votes are needed for a majority. And it was the Catalan independence parties the Catalan Republican Left (ERC) and the Catalan European Democratic Party (PDeCAT) who decided to withdraw their support for the 2019 spending plan, which had been agreed between the PSOE and the left-wing coalition Unidas Podemos. They wanted more concessions from Sanchez over the independence drive, such as discussions on a negotiated referendum. They also wanted government intervention regarding the secessionist leaders who are currently on trial in the Supreme Court, several of whom are being held in custody as that process takes place. Now, in the wake of the inconclusive elections, which saw the Socialists take the most seats but fall short of a majority, the Catalan parties are threatening to cause more trouble for Sanchez, even before a government has been formed. On Wednesday, it emerged that the acting prime minister had chosen Miquel Iceta, the leader of the PSC (the Catalan branch of the PSOE), for the role of speaker in Spains upper house of parliament, the Senate. Before he can take that position, Iceta must be voted in by the Catalan parliament as a regional senator. The pro-independence parties are threatening to veto that support, meaning that Iceta would need the help of center-right group Ciudadanos (Citizens) to be successful at the vote. Ciudadanos is openly hostile to the PSOE, and is unwilling to do any deals in Congress to assist Sanchez in his bid to form a government. The choice of Iceta was symbolic, given the ongoing tensions between the central government in Madrid and Catalonia, which has been immersed for years in a pro-independence drive that peaked in late 2017, when an illegal referendum on secession was held, and a unilateral declaration of independence passed in the regional parliament. Iceta is a figure who has always supported dialogue as a means to solve the differences between the region and the rest of Spain, and he has also talked about the possibility of government pardons should the pro-independence leaders currently being tried in the Supreme Court end up with jail sentences. But the response from regional parties to the choice of Iceta was not the one that the PSOE had expected. Arriving at an informal European Union summit in Romania today, Sanchez called on the Catalan independence parties to rethink their veto. The choice of Iceta was symbolic, given the ongoing tensions between the central government in Madrid and Catalonia Spaniards and Catalans have spoken, and they have opted for forces such as the PSOE, which is defending dialogue and an end to confrontation, the acting prime minister told reporters. Society has said that it wants the PSOE to govern and to continue with policies of peaceful coexistence. What I am calling for is that they allow us to exercise our right to be able to choose the senatorial representatives in Madrid. I hope that the independence forces reconsider, that they leave to one side the veto, deadlock and polarization, and that we can think about revitalizing the Senate as a territorial chamber and revitalizing our state model based on devolved powers to the regions. Vetoing someone who has always defended dialogue, who has built bridges, is a bad start. I hope that they will respect us as we have always respected the right of all forces to choose their representatives. English version by Simon Hunter. Ukrainian Finance Minister Oksana Markarova has discussed the positive consequences of the review of the portfolio of projects of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) and further steps to implement them with EBRD President Suma Chakrabarti, the Finance Ministry of Ukraine reported on its Facebook page on Thursday. The ministry said that the meeting was held during annual meetings and the EBRD business forum. "Ukraine has chosen the path of change and is confidently moving along it. We are confident that cooperation in the implementation of energy sector reforms and assistance with the implementation of infrastructure projects will significantly accelerate the implementation of these structural changes," the Finance Ministry said, citing Markarova as saying. The meeting with EBRD Chief Economist Sergei Guriev focused on the current economic situation of the country, progress in implementing key reforms and the course of cooperation with the International Monetary Fund (IMF). Russia-occupation forces mounted 11 attacks on Ukrainian army positions in Donbas in the past 24 hours, including two attacks using 82mm mortars banned by Minsk agreements, with one Ukrainian soldier reported as killed in action (KIA), and another four as wounded in action (WIA), the press service of the Joint Forces Operation (JFO) reported on Thursday morning. In the action zone of the operational-tactical grouping Vostok (East), nine attacks were reported: three times using 82 mm mortars, grenade launchers of various systems, large-caliber machine guns and small arms near Pavlopil; grenade launchers of various systems near Maryinka; twice from heavy machine-gun grenade launchers and large-caliber machine guns near Bohdanivka; machine-gun anti-tank grenade launchers near Starohnativka; automatic machine gun grenade launchers and large-caliber machine guns near Lebedynske; the hand-held anti-tank grenade launchers, large-caliber machine guns and small arms near Opytne. In the area of responsibility of the operational-tactical group Sever (North), the Ukrainian positions were shelled twice: from 82 mm mortars near Novotoshkivske; from grenade launchers of various systems and large-caliber machine guns near Zhelezne. "The JFO units gave an adequate response to the enemy provocations," the headquarters said. According to the Ukrainian intelligence, on May 8, six militants were killed, five more were injured. An enemy truck was also destroyed. "Since the beginning of the current day, attacks by the Russia-occupation forces have not been recorded," the headquarters said. Zelensky: contribution of Ukrainians in victory over Nazism huge, no one has right to privatize this victory President-elect Volodymyr Zelensky visited his native city Kryvy Rih (Dnipropetrovsk region) on the Victory Day over Nazism in the Second World War, where he came to the grave of his grandfather who fought during the Second World War. "Today I am at the grave of my grandfather Semen Ivanovych Zelensky. He went through the war and remained forever in my memory as one of those heroes who defended Ukraine from the Nazis. It is a pity that we so rarely remember veterans, our grandparents. We should be grateful them every day," Zelensky wrote on his page in the social network Facebook on Thursday. Zelensky said that May 9th today is "our Thanksgiving Day." "Thanksgiving for the fact that the inhuman ideology of Nazism is a thing of the past, thanksgiving to those who fought against Nazism and won, thanksgiving everyone for the opportunity to be born and live," he wrote. Zelensky said that the war touched every Ukrainian family, and the contribution of Ukrainians to the victory is huge. "No one has the right to privatize this victory, to say that it could have happened without Ukrainians. We remember those who had lost their lives. And we honor those who are still alive, there are very few of them left," he wrote. "Congratulations on the Victory over Nazism!" We will live!" he added. By Derrick Wandera and Risdel Kasasira. New details have emerged showing that a common threat posed by police and mutual embrace of defiance as a key element of opposition struggle prompted four time presidential candidate Dr.Kiiza Besigye and people power movement leader Robert Kyagulanyi known to many as Bobi Wine to work together. The two camps whose relation until last was marked by wrangling and name calling among rival supporters announced yesterday that they had agreed to bury the hatchet and work together. It is believed that the first meeting that led to reconciliation happened on 3rd May at Bobi Wines home in Magere after his release and the second meeting was held on Monday at the home of the lord Mayor Erias Lukwago in Rubaga. A highly placed source says the members agreed to fight back whenever confronted by police and also address joint political rallies to empower citizens and accelerate the struggle for access to the media in order to expand their reach to more Ugandans. Related Stories. Besigye and Bobi Wine agree to work together U.S. Special Representative for Ukraine Negotiations Kurt Volker has said that re-integration of areas of Donbas to Ukraine could happen if the Minsk agreements are implemented by Ukraine and Russia, although it is hard for Kyiv to implement all provisions of the agreement due to Russia's hostilities. Ultimately, we want the residents of Donbas to live in safety, that the economy is restored there, that they have the opportunity of taking care of themselves and their families, that the state provides all the necessary services and that people return to normal life, he said in an interview with BBC Russian. Asked whether he believes that this will happen during the presidency of U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, Volker expressed the opinion that this can certainly happen, there is no doubt about that. However, it will require Russia to withdraw its troops and that the so-called self-proclaimed republics ceased to exist so that the normal work of the Ukrainian municipal structures would be restored, he said. At the same time, according to him, the Ukrainian side will have to fulfill its part of the Minsk agreements. Ukrainians must fulfill their part, which implies respecting the ceasefire, although now it is difficult for them to implement it, because Russia is fighting on the other side of the front line; and the territories should be given a special status, as stated in the Minsk agreements, the U.S. special representative said. He also expressed the hope that there would be a return to the issue of the UN peacekeeping mission, because it could become a necessary transit mechanism, allowing us to guarantee the implementation of the Minsk agreements by all sides. Ukrainian PM raises issue of calling Russia to account for issue of Russian passports to Donbas residents before Canadian FM Ukrainian Prime Minister Volodymyr Groysman at a meeting with Canadian Foreign Minister Chrystia Freeland paid attention to the issue of Russian passports to residents of Ukrainian government uncontrolled areas of Donetsk and Luhansk regions. Groysman informed Freeland that the Ukrainian government decided to recognize these Russian passports of Donbas residents as invalid and illegitimate. "We will call on international partners not to recognize these passports issued in violation of all norms and rules, apply the respective measures to stop these unlawful acts," the prime minister said at a meeting with his Canadian counterpart in Kyiv on Wednesday. In turn, Freeland said that Canada has a staunchest stance on supporting the integrity and sovereignty of Ukraine. She also said that Canada is glad that the presidential election in Ukraine was democratic and transparent. The Armed Forces of Ukraine is ready to resist Russia's attempts to worsen the situation in eastern Ukraine, Deputy Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council (NSDC) Serhiy Kryvonos has said. "The Ukrainian Armed Forces is ready to resist. It has great experience, it has a fairly high level of both professionalism and patriotism and is able to fight back Russia's attempts to worsen the situation inside the country," Kryvonos said on Wednesday on Voice of America TV, responding to the question whether the Ukrainian Armed Forces is ready for a possible deterioration of the situation in the east of Ukraine before the parliamentary elections. Kryvonos also said that the object of an information attack from the Russian Federation is the population of Ukraine. "We are considering... issues about overcoming the active information attack by the Russian Federation on the population of Ukraine. And the main task of the information attack is to deteriorate the situation in the country with the hands and brains of the Ukrainians themselves. And every Ukrainian should clearly understand this," Kryvonos said. The deputy secretary of NSDC also did not rule out the possible interference of the Russian Federation in the work of the energy system of Ukraine with the help of cyber attacks. "We are still in the state when our energy dependence on Russia still exists and Russia can influence it," Kryvonos said. According to him, measures have been developed that will significantly minimize these risks. "Certain steps have been developed that, when implemented by the new leadership, the new team can significantly reduce these attempts. Let's hope that the selection of people for the team of the new president will be professional," the deputy secretary of NSDC said. Ilya Kyva: Victory Day will always be a holiday for us - the descendants of great people who have defeated fascism The Victory Day will always remain a holiday, which unites in the sense of pride for the ancestors who stopped fascism. The leader of the Socialist Party of Ukraine, Ilya Kyva, said on the TV channel "112" after laying flowers to the Memorial of Eternal Glory, the press service of the SPU informs on the official site of the party. "For all of us, the Holiday of Victory is a holiday that unites, it is a holiday of pride. Pride for the fact, that we were able to give the world the opportunity to live, for what we made, we - means Ukrainians! After all, we made a huge contribution to the victory over fascism, which is recognized throughout the world as a plague and a tragedy", he said. At the same time, I.Kyva added: "We are the descendants of those people, who made the Great Feat, a great act of self-sacrifice. Pride, joy and great honor to be their descendants". The politician also stressed, that for him this day is especially important in connection with the contribution made by his grandfather, the Hero of the World War 2, who inspired him to go to Donbass in 2014 and to confront the aggressor country. "May 9 for my grandfather - commander of the assault 26th battalion, honorary citizen of Hungary, Hero of the Soviet Union, Philip Kyva, - May 9 was a great holiday. For my father, this is a great holyday, for me and for my son. And so in my family will always be", said I.Kyva. Irans President Hassan Rouhani in a telephone call with French President Emmanuel Macron has called the U.S. action in designating Irans Revolution Guards as a terror group, a very provocative, dangerous and unprecedented in international relations. Rouhani underlined to Mr. Macron that based on a direct admission by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu the U.S. decision was taken as a result of Tel Avivs request. The United States on April 8 designated the Islamic Revolution Guard Corps (IRGC) as a Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO), in effect condemning the main body of Irans military force. Iranian leaders have reacted with anger and condemnation, with the Iranian parliament passing a resolution designating the U.S. military in the region as terrorist. Rouhani also asked the French president to help speed up a European trade initiative to facilitate business dealings between Iran and European Union countries. Irans president said that The will of the Iranian government is to preserve regional security and prevent a rise in tensions. A statement by the French presidency said Macron urged Rouhani to "avoid any escalation or destabilization of the region." DPA, the German news agency reports that Macron also asked Rouhani to free Iranian human rights defender Nasrin Sotoudeh, who has been jailed since mid-2018 in what rights monitors have called "dubious" charges. In the communique issued by Rouhanis office there was no mention of Macrons position regarding the U.S. decision to list the IRGC as a terrorist group. The EU has also not shown any reaction to Washingtons move. The spokesperson for EUs foreign policy has offered no comment on the issue. Baku, Azerbaijan, May 9 Trend: A new print edition of the AZERNEWS online newspaper was released on May 9. The new edition includes articles: EU highlights need to sign aviation agreement; Country first in CIS in terms of minimum pension rate; Chingiz Mustafayev holds first rehearsal at Eurovision stage; Azexport strives to U.S. market etc. AZERNEWS is an associate member of the World Association of Newspapers and News Publishers (WAN-IFRA). The online newspaper is available at www.azernews.az. Baku, Azerbaijan, May 9 Trend: Over the past 24 hours, Armenian armed forces have violated the ceasefire along the line of contact between Azerbaijani and Armenian troops 27 times, the Azerbaijani Defense Ministry said on May 9, Trend reports. The conflict between the two South Caucasus countries began in 1988 when Armenia made territorial claims against Azerbaijan. As a result of the ensuing war, in 1992 Armenian armed forces occupied 20 percent of Azerbaijan, including the Nagorno-Karabakh region and seven surrounding districts. The 1994 ceasefire agreement was followed by peace negotiations. Armenia has not yet implemented four UN Security Council resolutions on withdrawal of its armed forces from the Nagorno-Karabakh and the surrounding districts. Baku, Azerbaijan, May 9 Trend: A delegation of the Azerbaijani parliament under the leadership of Speaker Ogtay Asadov visited Italy, Trend reports referring to the parliament. The delegation included the head of the working group on inter-parliamentary relations with Italy, Azer Karimli, MPs Ulviyya Aghayeva, Vahid Ahmadov, Elshad Hasanov, head of the Parliament's Office Safa Mirzayev and other officials. During the visit, the delegation met with the leadership of the Senate and the Chamber of Deputies of the Italian parliament, as well as representatives of the Azerbaijan-Italy Friendship Group. During the meeting with the President of the Senate Maria Elisabetta Alberti Casellati, Ogtay Asadov stressed the importance of the recent official visit of the First Vice-President of Azerbaijan Mehriban Aliyeva to Italy. He noted that to date,44 documents have been signed between the two countries, the most important of which is the Joint Declaration on Strategic Partnership between Azerbaijan and Italy. Asadov noted that Italy is the largest trade partner of Azerbaijan and presently, there are up to 50 Italian companies operating in the country. The Speaker of the Azerbaijani Parliament added that the Heydar Aliyev Foundation plays a big role in strengthening political and cultural ties between countries. Casellati said that in Italy, the projects implemented by the Heydar Aliyev Foundation in the cultural and humanitarian fields, including the restoration of historical monuments in Italy, are highly appreciated. She added that Italian companies are successfully participating in a number of economic projects in Azerbaijan, including the transport, agricultural, infrastructure sectors, defense industry, etc. The Senate president, highly appreciating the role of Azerbaijan in the energy security of Europe, including Italy, stressed that the Southern Gas Corridor will serve to further expand economic cooperation between the two countries. During the visit, Asadov also met in Rome with the President of the Chamber of Deputies of Italy's Parliament Roberto Fico. During the conversation, the chairman of the Azerbaijani Parliament highlighted the official visits of President Ilham Aliyev to Italy in 2005, 2008 and 2014 and working visits in 2011 and 2015. Referring to the cultural ties between Azerbaijan and Italy, Asadov added that the Heydar Aliyev Foundation is carrying out exceptional work in strengthening political and cultural ties. According to him, the projects implemented in Italy by the Heydar Aliyev Foundation under the leadership of the First Vice-President Mehriban Aliyeva make a special contribution to cooperation between the two countries in the humanitarian sphere. During the talks, it was also stressed that during last years official visit to Italy, Azerbaijan's First Vice President Mehriban Aliyeva took part in the opening ceremony of the St. Sebastians Catacombs, restored by the Heydar Aliyev Foundation. Asadov said that Azerbaijan is interested in deepening relations with the EU and works closely with European institutions. Baku, Azerbaijan, May 9 Trend: President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev and First Lady Mehriban Aliyeva have attended the opening of an administrative building of the Sustainable and Operative Social Security (DOST) Agency under the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection of Population and the first DOST center in Yasamal district, Baku. The head of state cut the ribbon symbolizing the opening of the administrative building. After touring the building, President Ilham Aliyev met with the staff. Baku, Azerbaijan, May 10 Trend: Heydar Aliyev was born on May 10, 1923 in Nakhchivan city of Azerbaijan. In 1939, after graduating from the Nakhchivan Pedagogical School, he entered the Architecture Department of the Industrial Institute of Azerbaijan (now the State Oil Academy of Azerbaijan), but the World War 2 impeded the completion of his education. Since 1941, Heydar Aliyev headed a department at the People's Commissariat of Internal Affairs of the Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic of Nakhchivan, and in 1944, was sent to work at state security bodies. He received special education in the cities of Leningrad (now Saint Petersburg) and Moscow. In 1957 he graduated from the History Department of the Azerbaijan State University. Having worked for twenty five years at state security bodies, Heydar Aliyev served as the deputy chairman of the State Security Committee under the Council of Ministers of the Azerbaijan SSR since 1964, and from 1967, held the office of chairman of the committee, and rose to the rank of a major general. Elected as first secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Azerbaijan at the Plenary Session of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Azerbaijan in July 1969, Heydar Aliyev became the head of the republic. Elected as a candidate to the Political Bureau of the Central Committee of the Soviet Union's Communist Party in 1976, and a member of the Political Bureau in 1982, Heydar Aliyev was appointed the first deputy chairman of the USSR's Council of Ministers. While on this position, Heydar Aliyev headed the most significant areas of the USSR's economic, social and cultural lives. For twenty years, Heydar Aliyev was a deputy of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR and the Azerbaijan SSR, and for five years, worked as a first deputy chairman of the USSR's Council of Ministers. In October 1987, as a sign of protest against the policy pursued by the Political Bureau of the Central Committee of the Soviet Union's Communist Party and, personally, by Secretary General Mikhail Gorbachev, Heydar Aliyev resigned from his post. In connection with the tragedy committed on January 20, 1990 in Baku by the Soviet troops, Heydar Aliyev, appearing the next day at the Representative Office of Azerbaijan in Moscow with a statement, demanded that the organizers and executors of the crime committed against the people of Azerbaijan be punished. As a sign of protest against the hypocritical policy of the USSR leadership towards the critical conflict in Nagorno-Karabakh, in July 1991, he left the Communist Party of the Soviet Union. After returning to Azerbaijan in July 1990, Heydar Aliyev first lived in Baku, then moved to Nakhchivan, and the same year was elected a deputy to the Supreme Council of Azerbaijan. In 1991-1993, he held the post of chairman of the Supreme Assembly of the Autonomous Republic of Nakhchivan, deputy Chairman of the Supreme Council of the Republic of Azerbaijan. In 1992, at the constituent congress of the New Azerbaijan Party in Nakhchivan, Heydar Aliyev was elected chairman of the Party. In May-June 1993, when, as a result of a crisis in the government, the country was on the verge of a civil war and faced the peril of losing independence, the people of Azerbaijan demanded to bring Heydar Aliyev to power, and the then leaders of Azerbaijan were obliged to officially invite Heydar Aliyev to Baku. On June 15, 1993, Heydar Aliyev was elected chairman of the Supreme Council of Azerbaijan, and on June 24, by a resolution of the National Assembly, he proceeded to fulfilling the authorities of the president of the Republic of Azerbaijan. On October 3, 1993, as a result of the nationwide vote, Heydar Aliyev was elected president of the Republic of Azerbaijan. At the election held on October 11, 1998, he was re-elected president of the Republic of Azerbaijan. Heydar Aliyev, giving his consent to be nominated as a candidate at the 15 October 2003 presidential election, relinquished to run at the election due to health problems. On December 12, 2003, national leader of the Azerbaijani people, President Heydar Aliyev passed away in the Cleveland hospital in the US, where he had been undergoing medical treatment, and on December 15, was buried at the Alley of Honor in Baku. By Ruth Anderah. NIRA has denied knowledge of the eight suspects who are on remand on charges of murdering former AIGP Andrew Felix Kaweesi, his body guard Kenneth Erau and driver Godfrey Wambewa. According to NIRA , the suspects ID cards which were forwarded for verification as one of the conditions for bail set by the International Crimes Division of the High court can not be traced anywhere in their records. This means the suspects are holding forged IDs. Now the trial Judge Lydia Mugambe has ordered that the suspects produce letters from Local council Authorities in places where they shall be residing before released on bail . The case will return on june 29th after the state has verified all identification reports that will be given to court. The suspects were granted bail on charges of murder, Aggravated robbery and terrorism but for 2 months they cannot leave prison due to lack of proper identification documents. Related Stories Kaweesi murder suspect released on bail AIGP Kaweesi murder case pushed to August Two kaweesi suspects stranded at Luzira prison Baku, Azerbaijan, May 9 Trend: The visit of the political leadership of Armenia to the city of Shusha, which is under their military occupation, statements made in this context, as well as the words voiced by Yerevan, including the foreign minister about Protecting Artsakhs freedom is the basis of our commitments on the peaceful settlement of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict are a very erroneous message for conflict resolution talks, spokesperson for Azerbaijans Foreign Ministry Leyla Abdullayeva told Trend May 9. Abdullayeva said that the latest statements by Yerevan are in stark contrast to the calls for preparing the populations for peace, as reflected in the joint statements made during the last meetings. "All responsibility in connection with the further possible developments lies with the leadership of Armenia," the head of the Foreign Ministrys press service noted. Abdullayeva recalled that all international organizations and the international community recognize the territorial integrity of Azerbaijan within the recognized state borders. She pointed out that the sooner the Armenian leadership understands this reality and stops deceiving its population, the sooner peace, stability and sustainable development will be ensured in the region. Ashgabat, Turkmenistan, May 9 By Huseyn Hasanov Trend: A meeting was held with Zhyrgalbek Sagynbayev, Deputy Chairman of the State Committee for Industry, Energy and Subsoil Use of Kyrgyzstan, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, Trend reports referring to the Turkmen Foreign Ministry. Sagynbayev is also the co-chairman of the joint Turkmen-Kyrgyz Intergovernmental Committee. The parties discussed the possibilities of expanding trade, economic and investment cooperation and stressed the need to increase the volume of trade. The importance of business contacts between the two states was also emphasized during the meeting. In turn, the Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs of Turkmenistan (UIET) reports that large-scale investment projects implemented by domestic entrepreneurs, including those in the transport sector, developing the country's natural resources, developing the fishing industry, and tourism, were discussed during the meeting with Sagynbayev. It was reported earlier that Kyrgyzstan is negotiating the possibility of receiving natural gas from a future branch of the Turkmenistan-China pipeline for providing the southern regions of of the country with gas. Zhyrgalbek Sagynbayev told local media that it is necessary to conduct additional negotiations with all the countries participating in the project in order to resolve the issue. The construction of the 4th branch "D" of the Turkmenistan-China gas pipeline via Kyrgyzstan is scheduled to commence by late 2019. Overall, the new branch "D" is intended for the Turkmenistan-Uzbekistan-Tajikistan-Kyrgyzstan-China route. At present, 3 branches of the pipeline on the route Turkmenistan-Uzbekistan-Kazakhstan-China (branches "A", "B", "C") have been built and functioning. They are to supply 40 billion cubic meters of natural gas per year altogether. The additional branch's rate of flow is expected to be 25 billion cubic meters of gas, which will allow Turkmenistan to bring the volume of its natural gas exports to China to 65 billion cubic meters annually. It was reported earlier that, as of December 2018, more than 250 billion cubic meters of Turkmen gas had been exported to China since December 2009. Baku, Azerbaijan, May 9 By Fakhri Vakilov Trend: On May 8, President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev held a meeting on the development of the jewelry industry and the expansion of conditions for jewelry manufacturers, Trend reports referring to Uzbek media. Until recently, this industry received little attention in Uzbekistan. Eighty percent of the equipment of jewelry enterprises was worn out and some enterprises stopped the production. Moreover, there were many restrictions on the sale of precious metals to jewelers. The direct sale of precious metals to manufacturers through the exchange became allowed starting from March 1 of this year. The next goal is to bring the jewelry business to the level of a full-fledged industry. At the meeting, the head of state noted the need for the effective use of raw materials, the active attraction of investments in the industry and the organization of modern production. The high cost of gold, platinum and silver limits the ability of enterprises in the industry to form working capital. In this regard, it was instructed to review the tax burden on the jewelry industry and release imported raw materials and equipment from customs duties. It is indicated that it is necessary to stimulate the attraction of investments of world-famous companies to state-owned jewelry enterprises, support manufacturers and provide them with preferential loans for the purchase of precious metals. There are deposits of such precious stones as turquoise, malachite, lapis lazuli, and opal in Uzbekistan, but their industrial development has not been established. The meeting provides guidance on the development of all areas of jewelry and organizing the extraction of the necessary precious stones for the industry. The President emphasized the necessity to lift restrictions on the supply of jewelry products to the market and to give individual manufacturers the right to sell their products. It was also noted that domestic enterprises should stamp the products themselves and that it is necessary to simplify the procedure for exporting jewelry abroad by individuals. Instructions have been given to establish electronic accounting for the reception and sale of jewelry at retail outlets, and prevent illegal trade of them. --- Follow author on Twitter:@vakilovfaxri Tehran, Iran, May 9 Trend: Iran's Minister of Industry, Mine and Trade Reza Rahmani has called on for daily monitoring of the market, to confront high prices of consumer goods. Consumers and Producers Protection Organization should create structure for the highly consumed 100 basic items and monitor the market prices, as well as control productions from their production to distribution," he said, Trend reports citing Tasnim News Agency. Rahmani requested the organization to review the reason for price hike of items such as canned tuna, rice, pasta and etc. Following the rise of consumer prices of food items, tuna cans have become rare in chain stores, while the prices of some brands jumped more than 60 percent. Rahmani went on to say that wholesale should be better controlled, better - through a monitoring structure. "The atmosphere indicates that psychological war is moving faster than economic war, and those who created this tension, have affected the market as well," he noted. Baku, Azerbaijan, May 9 By Sara Israfilbayova Trend: Solidarity of Azerbaijan with other participants of the OPEC+ deal contributes to its sustainability and opens up prospects for attracting new participants, Vasily Tanurkov, director of the Corporate Ratings Group at Russias Analytical Credit Rating Agency (ACRA), told Trend. "It is not only Azerbaijans contribution to the overall production cuts that is important, but also the country's solidarity with other OPEC+ members, which contributes to the sustainability of the deal and opens up prospects for attracting new participants," Tanurkov said. As to the possibility of extending the deal for cutting oil production, the expert noted that currently the most probable and viable solution is to extend the deal while softening its terms by increasing production quotas, in order to compensate for the drop in exports from Iran and Venezuela. An agreement was reached to reduce daily oil production by 1.2 million barrels at the 5th OPEC and non-OPEC Ministerial Meeting in Vienna, Austria, on December 7, 2018. As part of the agreement, Azerbaijan has reduced daily production by 20,000 barrels since January 1, 2019. --- Follow the author on Twitter: @IsrafilbekovaS Baku, Azerbaijan, May 9 By Leman Zeynalova - Trend: The cause of the fire on the pipe-laying vessel "Israfil Huseynov" in the Caspian Sea was the malfunction in the equipment on the production line, a source at the Italian Saipem company told Trend. According to the source, 14 people who received burns of varying degrees as a result of the fire were taken to the Central Hospital of Oil Workers in Baku. The company noted that there are no injuries among the vessels personnel as a result of the incident and there is no risk for the vessels further operation. "Saipem is monitoring the course of events and will regularly notify about what is happening," the source said. --- Follow the author on Twitter: @Lyaman_Zeyn Baku, Azerbaijan, May 9 By Leman Zeynalova Trend: The impact of U.S. sanctions on Iranian production, despite the existing waivers, has been substantial, Trend reports with reference to the World Banks Commodity Markets Outlook. Output is down almost 30 percent (1.1 mb/d) relative to its peak in the second quarter of 2018, and comparable to the impact of earlier sanctions in 2014, the report reads. WB said that global oil production plunged in the first quarter of 2019, following a sharp expansion in the preceding quarter. "The increase at the end of last year was primarily due to Saudi Arabia, who substantially increased production between June and October by 0.6 mb/d in anticipation of the U.S. sanctions on Iran. However, in November the U.S. decided to grant waivers to the sanctions to eight countries, including China and India (which together account for 18 percent of global oil consumption). This led to much higher-than-expected levels of production in November and December, contributing to a rise in inventories and declining prices," reads the report. "In response to these developments, OPEC and its coalition of partners, including Russia, agreed to implement production cuts of 1.2 mb/d starting in 2019. Compliance with the agreement by OPEC members has been strong, and output has fallen by more than agreed levels. Production curtailments have been led by Saudi Arabia, which reduced output by 8 percent (0.81 mb/d) between October 2018 and March 2019, compared with its agreed cut of 3 percent (0.32 mb/d). NonOPEC countries have been slower to adhere to the reduction, with Russia projected to reach its target in April. OPEC and its partners are expected to decide whether to extend production limits at their meeting in June." The US State Department has said that the country wont issue additional reduction exceptions to existing importers of Iranian oil. "United States will not issue any additional Significant Reduction Exceptions to existing importers of Iranian oil. The Trump Administration has taken Irans oil exports to historic lows, and we are dramatically accelerating our pressure campaign in a calibrated way that meets our national security objectives while maintaining well supplied global oil markets. We stand by our allies and partners as they transition away from Iranian crude to other alternatives. We have had extensive and productive discussions with Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and other major producers to ease this transition and ensure sufficient supply. This, in addition to increasing U.S. production, underscores our confidence that energy markets will remain well supplied," reads the message. --- Follow the author on Twitter: @Lyaman_Zeyn Baku, Azerbaijan, May 9 Trend: The Russian Foreign Ministry condemned the former ruling Republican Party of Armenia for the glorification of fascism, reads the report of the Russian Foreign Ministry "On the situation with the glorification of Nazism, the spread of neo-Nazism and other practices that contribute to the escalation of modern forms of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance", Trend reports. In particular, the document notes that the former ruling Republican Party of Armenia took steps to perpetuate the memory of the Nazi criminal Garegin Nzhdeh, who worked closely with the Third Reich. The report also highlights the activities of the well-known extremist group Sasna Tsrer, which was registered in the autumn of 2018 as a political party. "The Sasna Tsrer ideology is based on the refusal to recognize the Republic of Armenia as an 'outcome of a criminal Russian-Turkish conspiracy' (Moscow Treaty of 1921) and struggle for the 'creation of a new state'. The stated goals of the party are 'the creation of a new Armenia', including both the current territory of the country and Nagorno-Karabakh, as well as the unification of Armenians living outside their homeland through a national referendum," the report reads. The program of the party emphasizes the task of restoring the rights allegedly 'violated by Russian colonialism' and returning 'Armenian authority to Nakhchivan and west of the Akhuryan river'. "In July 2016, supporters of this party carried out an armed seizure of a police station in Yerevan, during which two policemen were killed. In the parliamentary elections in December 2018, the party gathered 1.82 percent of the votes," the report further noted. As noted, cases of racism and xenophobia were recorded in Armenia and cases of hostility by the Armenian population towards visitors from Iran and India are also periodically revealed. "In late 2018, Arman Tatoyan, a human rights defender of the Republic of Armenia, stated that the use of the internet for spreading xenophobic attitudes in Armenia had become more frequent, motivating it with the aggravation of the internal political situation in the country on the threshold of parliamentary elections," the report said. China is fed up with hearing complaints from the United States about its Belt and Road program to re-create the old Silk Road, reports Trend citing to Reuters The initiative, a key thrust of President Xi Jinpings administration, has hit opposition in some countries over fears its opaque financing could lead to unsustainable debt and that it aims more to promote Chinese influence than development. China sought to tackle those concerns at a summit in Beijing last month, promising to make the program sustainable and green and follow international standards, especially regarding debt. The United States has been particularly critical, and Pompeo, speaking in London on Wednesday, slammed China for peddling corrupt infrastructure deals in exchange for political influence and using bribe-fuelled debt-trap diplomacy. In Beijing, Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang said various people in the United States had been making irresponsible comments on the program, especially before the summit when, he said, such criticism reached a crescendo. But what was the result? One hundred and fifty countries, 92 international organizations and more than 6,000 delegates from various countries attended the second Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation, including 50 delegates from the United States, Geng told reporters. I think this is the international community taking actual actions to cast a vote of confidence and support in the Belt and Road initiative, and the best response to the words and actions of the United States. In the past two days, some Americans have been singing the same old tune, seeking to attack and smear the program, he added. Theyre not fed up with saying it; were fed up with hearing it, he said. I want to remind them again, dont overestimate your ability to create rumors, and dont underestimate the judgment of others. If they want to, let them continue talking. We will continue getting on with things. North Korea fired what appeared to be two short-range missiles on Thursday in a likely protest by leader Kim Jong Un at the United States after he and President Donald Trump failed to reach agreement on nuclear weapons and missiles at a February summit, South Korea said, Trend reports citing Reuters. U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, who earlier cut short a European trip to return to Washington for meetings on Iran, would also have discussions on North Korea after learning of the launches, a senior U.S. State Department official said. The launches came less than a week after Kim oversaw the test-firing of multiple rockets and a missile and coincided with a visit to the South Korean capital by U.S. special envoy for North Korea, Stephen Biegun. The two missiles fired on Thursday went in an easterly direction from the northwestern area of Kusong, South Koreas Joint Chiefs of Staff said. By Ritah Kemigisa. The United Nations High Commission for refugees (UNHCR) and the office of the prime minister have warned of a possible increase of refugees from South Sudan and DR-Congo into Uganda. The UNHCR Representative in Uganda Joel Boutroue says number of displaced people is bound to increase further should the Violations of the ceasefire agreement by armed parties in South Sudan and hostilities among armed groups in DRCs North Kivu province continue. He however says together with the office of the prime minister, they are preparing to scale up services for a potential influx of 40,000 new arrivals at reception and transit centers. According to UNHCR-OPM joint border monitoring reports more than 34,000 new refugees have arrived in Uganda, of whom over 16,000 are from South Sudan. The figures also show that an average of 194 south Sudan refugees enter Uganda daily. Earlier in the day, the Iraqi military said that a suicide bombing in the Sadr City district of Baghdad killed a number of people. At the time, the exact number of those killed and injured was not disclosed, Trend reports citing Sputnik. An Iraqi security official said that the suicide bomber has attacked a marketplace in Baghdad's Sadr City suburb, killing eight people and wounding 15, AP reports. Earlier AFP reported, citing a security official, that at least seven people were killed and 15 wounded in the suicide bombing at a market in eastern Baghdad on Thursday. "A suicide bomber wearing an explosive belt blew himself up close to stalls at the crowded Jamila market," the senior police officer said as cited by AFP. At the same time, local TV Al-Sumaria reported that at least 8 people were killed in the suicide attack, with 10 more injured. There was no immediate claim of responsibility. Following the deadly attack, the Baghdad Operations Command noted in a statement, that before the suicide bomber detonated his explosive belt, he was surrounded by security forces. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau spoke to U.S. President Donald Trump on Thursday and discussed the detention of two Canadian citizens in China, which has triggered a major crisis between Ottawa and Beijing, Trend reports citing Reuters. Canada is pressing Washington to do more to free the two men, who were detained after Canadian police arrested a Huawei Technologies Co Ltd executive last year at the request of the United States. China has also halted imports of Canadian canola and some pork products. A statement from Trudeaus office said the two leaders talked about the two detained men as well as Canadas ongoing efforts to secure their release. It gave no details. The case of the two detainees is one of several irritants between Canada and the United States. Another is the tariffs that Washington slapped on Canadian exports of steel and aluminum last year, citing national security concerns. Trudeau raised the punitive measures and reiterated the importance of their removal, the statement said. Canadian officials have made clear there is no chance Ottawa will move to ratify a new continental trade pact with the United States and Mexico unless the tariffs are lifted. At least four people including a tribal elder were killed when a blast hit their vehicle in Pakistan's southwest Balochistan province on Wednesday, Trend reports citing Xinhua. The vehicle was completely destroyed after being hit by a roadside planted device, leaving all the four people onboard killed, local TV channel Hum news reported. The victims' bodies were shifted to a nearby hospital from where they will be handed over to relatives after legal procedures by police. No group or individual has claimed the attack yet. Japans Toyota Motor Corp and Panasonic Corp said they plan to establish a joint company to develop connected services to be used in homes and urban development, Trend reports citing Reuters. The tie-up deepens the partnership between the companies, which in January announced a joint venture to build electric-vehicle (EV) batteries, pooling the R&D and manufacturing strengths of one of the worlds largest automakers and battery makers to compete in the fast-growing EV market. In their latest venture, Toyota and Panasonic said they will set up a new company early next year to focus on technology that could be used to offer personalized services in the home. The pair plan to be 50-50 partners in the new firm and will increase cooperation at their respective housing operations in Japan. We will put our respective strengths together to offer new value in everyday life, Panasonic President Kazuhiro Tsuga said in a joint statement on Thursday. The move comes at a time when lower-emissions vehicles and ride-sharing services have opened up the auto industry to new competitors, leaving traditional car makers and their suppliers scrambling to find alternate revenue streams. Toyota has been developing connected cars that can share information on usage - data that could be leveraged for on-demand ride-sharing, insurance and maintenance. The automaker has said it will tap into its partner network and its operations which range from building and selling cars, homes and companion robots to expand into new transportation and home energy services. If we are able to use this network going forward not only to manufacture and sell vehicles but to also provide new services, our future possibilities will greatly expand, President Akio Toyota told reporters on Wednesday. In addition to cars, I think that having our own housing business and connected business will be a big advantage for us. US President Donald Trump said that Beijing had broken the deal with Washington during the bilateral trade talks. Trump made his statement during a campaign rally in Florida, Trend reports citing Sputnik. "You see the tariffs we're doing?" Trump told a rally with supporters in Florida. "Because they broke the deal [] They broke the deal. So they're flying in. The vice premier tomorrow is flying in, but they broke the deal. They can't do that. So they'll be paying. If we don't make the deal, nothing wrong with taking in more than $100 billion a year". The United States and China are set to meet in Washington on Thursday for a final round of trade negotiations with hopes of avoiding a looming tariff hike. The US president said on Wednesday that China was trying to make a deal, but should the talks fall apart, the United States would be more than happy to fill its coffers with billions of dollars generated from duties levied on Chinese goods. Moreover, on Wednesday, a notice posted in the Federal Register revealed that the Trump administration will increase tariffs on $200 billion worth of Chinese goods from 10 percent to 25 percent effective 10 May. "In accordance with the direction of the President, the US Trade Representative (Trade Representative) has determined to modify the action being taken in this Section 301 investigation by increasing the rate of additional duty from 10 percent to 25 percent for the products of China covered by the September 2018 action in this investigation", the notice said. "The rate of additional duty will increase to 25 percent with respect to products covered by the September 2018 action on May 10, 2019". The Chinese Commerce Ministry responded to the federal notice by warning the US of countermeasures. "China expresses deep regret over this, and if the US actually raises the tariffs, the Chinese side will be forced to take the necessary countermeasures", the ministry said. The United States and China have been in a trade dispute since June, when Trump announced the imposition of 25 percent tariffs on Chinese goods worth of $50 billion in a bid to fix the US-Chinese trade deficit. Since, the two countries have exchanged in several rounds of trade tariffs. Los Angeles police and the US Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) served a search warrant around 4 a.m. local time Wednesday, at a property on the border of the multimillion-dollar Bel Air and Holmby Hills neighbourhoods near Playboy Mansion, Trend reports referring to Sputnik. Los Angeles authorities reportedly seized more than a thousand assorted firearms from a massive stockpile discovered in a large house after responding to an anonymous tip regarding illegal gun sales in the luxury residential district. The cache of weapons reportedly included various long guns and handguns. According to media reports, public property records showed that the venue was a five-bedroom, 8,200-square-foot home. Its value is reportedly estimated at more than $7 million. There have been no further reports about the current owner of the property or any apprehensions at the scene. U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo had initially decided to cut short a European trip and return to Washington for meetings on Iran, a senior State Department official said on Thursday, Trend reports citing Reuters. But after South Korea announced North Korea had launched two short-range missiles, North Korea will also be discussed, the official said. The United States has for the first time seized a North Korean cargo ship it accused of illicit coal shipments in violation of U.S. and United Nations sanctions, the U.S. Justice Department announced on Thursday, Trend reports citing Reuters. The ship, known as the Wise Honest, was first detained by Indonesia in April 2018. Under an unusual U.S. civil forfeiture action, the vessel is now in the possession of the United States and is currently approaching U.S. territorial waters heading toward American Samoa, U.S. Justice Department officials said. The announcement comes after North Korea fired what appeared to be two short-range missiles on Thursday, its second such test in less than a week and an apparent protest by leader Kim Jong Un after U.S. President Donald Trump rejected his calls for sanctions relief at a summit in February. The United States filed its seizure warrant for the ship under seal in July 2018, but department officials said the timing of its unsealing on Thursday was unrelated to the missile launches. There is no connection at all between the recent activities by North Korea, said Geoffrey Berman, the U.S. attorney for the Southern District of New York. We have been pursuing this for months. The Justice Department said in a statement that the Wise Honest was used by Korea Songi Shipping Company, which it accused of paying U.S. dollars through unwitting U.S. financial institutions - in violation of U.S. laws - for improvements, equipment purchases, and service expenditures for the vessel. Payments totaling more than $750,000 were transmitted through accounts at a U.S. financial institution in connection with the March 2018 shipment of coal on board the Wise Honest, the statement said. The North Korean mission to the United Nations did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The U.N. Security Council has unanimously strengthened sanctions on North Korea since 2006 in a bid to choke funding for Pyongyangs nuclear and ballistic missile programs, banning exports including coal, iron, lead, textiles and seafood, and capping imports of crude oil and refined petroleum products. The US State Department has approved a possible $3 billion sale of Apache attack helicopters to Qatar, the US Defence Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) said in a statement Thursday, Trend reports citing Sputnik. "The State Department has made a determination approving a possible Foreign Military Sale to Qatar of twenty-four (24) AH-64E Apache Attack helicopters and related equipment for an estimated cost of $3.0 billion. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency delivered the required certification notifying Congress of this possible sale today", the release said. The authorities of Qatar asked earlier to purchase 24 of the AH-64E helicopters. In 2016, the Boeing Company has won a two-thirds-of-a-billion dollar US Army foreign military sales contract to supply the Gulf Arab nation of Qatar with 24 Apache ground-support helicopters. According to the US Department of Defence, work on the contract is being implemented in Mesa, Arizona, with an estimated completion date of 31 May 2020. The Apache AH-64 helicopter is described as a flying tank. It is a helicopter designed to survive heavy attack and is armed to inflict massive damage on ground forces. The AH-64 is also designed to operate day or night, including in unfavorable weather and poor visibility. KYODO NEWS - May 9, 2019 - 15:20 | All, Japan Japan has begun making arrangements to hold a meeting with South Korea's defense minister on the sidelines of an annual security forum slated to take place in Singapore for three days from late this month, a senior official said Thursday. If realized, it will be Japanese Defense Minister Takeshi Iwaya's first meeting with his South Korean counterpart Jeong Kyeong Doo in 2019. Bilateral tensions have been running high since a South Korean destroyer allegedly locked its fire-control radar on a Japanese patrol plane in December, in addition to friction over long-standing wartime issues. (Screenshot taken from a video that the South Korean Defense Ministry posted on YouTube on Jan. 4, 2019. The subtitle reads: A Japanese patrol aircraft (in circle) flew into the area at a low altitude as a humanitarian rescue operation was under way.) During the envisaged meeting, Iwaya hopes to mainly discuss North Korea with Jeong and has no plans to focus on the radar incident, according to the official at the Japanese Defense Ministry. "The meeting will be meaningless unless it is a positive and constructive one," a Japanese governmental source said. In January, Japan concluded that South Korea's denial of the alleged radar lock is "baseless" and has cut off talks on the incident since then. (Japanese Defense Minister Takeshi Iwaya (L) and his South Korean counterpart Jeong Kyeong Doo hold talks in Singapore in 2018. ) During the three-day Asia Security Summit starting from May 31, Japan is also considering holding a trilateral meeting joined by acting U.S. Defense Secretary Patrick Shanahan, the official said. Known also as the Shangri-La Dialogue, the forum has taken place every year in Singapore since 2002, where ministers of Asia-Pacific countries and other major nations such as Britain, France and Germany debate security challenges in the region and their defense cooperation. Related coverage: Japan, U.S. diplomats discuss N. Korea after projectiles fired Japan to call on N. Korea to realize summit "without conditions" Japan concludes S. Korean claim over radar lock-on is "baseless" Japan, South Korea clash again over fresh Seoul complaint about flybys Bhubaneswar: Cyclone Fani, one of the worst storms made landfall in the state last week. The cyclone wreaked havoc in Orrisa and around 3.5 million households in the state of Odisha were left without electricity for days after Cyclone Fani. America based space agency NASA released before-and-after pictures of twin cities of Bhubaneswar and Cuttack which shows the power outage in some of the worst affected areas in the state. Mother praises her onFacebook for scoring 60 per cent in CBSE exams NASA said that the images shared by it were "data visualisations of where the lights went out across some of the worst affected areas in Odisha." The images depicted the city lighting on April 30 (two days before the storm) and on May 5, two days after the storm had made landfall in Puri. Man gives triple talaq to wife over Whatsapp, wife accused in-laws of harassing her for money NASA said, These images were made from data acquired by the Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite (VIIRS) on the Suomi NPP satellite. VIIRS has a day-night band that detects light in a range of wavelengths from green to near-infrared, including reflected moonlight, light from fires and oil wells, lightning, and emissions from cities or other human activity. The storm lay a trail of destruction as it crossed through the state to enter West Bengal, and eventually Meghalaya and Bangladesh. At least 40 people were killed in the cyclone, left a hundred others homeless in the cities of Puri, Bhubaneswar, Cuttack and Khurda. At least eight lakh people were evacuated in a matter of few days from the vulnerable and low-lying areas in Odisha. The Lords Supper is a soul-stirring experience because of the depth of meaning it contains. Every church takes Communion at some time or another. Different churches share in the Lords Supper in slightly different ways. It was during the age-old celebration of the Passover on the eve of His death that Jesus instituted a significant new fellowship meal that we observe to this day. It is an integral part of Christian worship. It causes us to remember our Lords death and resurrection and to look for His glorious return in the future. The Passover was the most sacred feast of the Jewish religious year. It commemorated the final plague on Egypt when the firstborn of the Egyptians died and the Israelites were spared because of the blood of a lamb that was sprinkled on their doorposts. The lamb was then roasted and eaten with unleavened bread. Gods command was that throughout the generations to come the feast would be celebrated. also read OM is not only word; check its astonishing power of chanting There is some bread; there is some juice. Sometimes you go to the front of the church to get it; other times it is served to you. In many churches, people take a piece of bread and a little glass of juice to eat and drink. Some churches dip the bread in the juice. It all just depends on the traditions of your own church. But in every church, it is a very important and sacred way for Christians to remember Jesus and His death on the cross for our sins until He comes again. Catholic may have a little different from what describe here. As per Scripture defined before Jesus died on the cross, He had a final meal with His friends, the Disciples. He wanted to give them something to remember Him by when He wasnt with them, so He used the bread and the juice that they were having with their supper that night. The bread and the Juice are both symbols that represent Jesus. The broken piece of bread reminds us of His body which was broken when He was nailed to the cross. The Juice reminds us of Jesus blood that He shed for us on the cross. Jesus loved us so much that He gave His body and blood for us, so we could be forgiven when we sin. That is a lot of love for each and every one of us. When They take the Lords Supper (Communion), it is important to remember Jesus sacrifice for us. Is isnt something we should just do without thinking about what it truly represents. It was given to us by Jesus Himself, so we wouldnt forget His great love for all of us. Next time you take Communion, remember what it stands for and how wonderful a thing Jesus did for us. also read Similarity and difference between Buddhism and Jainism Panaji: Indo-French Naval exercise "Varuna" on Thursday saw increased participation of fighter aircraft, helicopters and coordination exercises between ships of both the nations. 'Varuna' is the largest ever joint exercise undertaken by the navies of two countries and represents the climax of the strengthened maritime co-operation between India and France. The second day of exercise started with submarine exercise with dedicated 'maritime reconnaissance phase' and 'ship phase' detecting the submerged submarine. Air defence exercise between the task group of Delhi and Paris progressed with a larger number of fighters participating from both sides. Man gives triple talaq to wife over Whatsapp, wife accused in-laws of harassing her for money In order to increase the complexity of air defence, controls of the fighters were handed over to the destroyers of each group by the respective aircraft carriers. ADEX for the day terminated with the MiGs of INS Vikramaditya guiding the Rafale fighter jets from the aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle in a planned firing exercise on Pigeon Island. 'Rajiv Gandhi gave instruction to kill people' BJP blames Rajiv Gandhi for anti-Sikh riots The second day of navel excericse ended with a combined coordinated gunnery firing exercise on the Banshee, an air-launched target, wherein the ships of both groups joined together to exhibit the might of their weaponry. The first phase of the Indo-French joint exercise began off Goa's coast on May 1 and is scheduled to culminate on May 10. The second phase is slated to be held in May-end near Djibouti. " " St. Vincent performs on stage during the SKOOKUM Festival at Stanley Park on Sept. 8, 2018 in Vancouver, Canada. Andrew Chin/Getty Images St. Vincent has taken on a sort of mythical status in the indie music world. Maybe it's because she was the first woman to win a Grammy for Best Alternative Album in two decades. Perhaps it's thanks to that superbly weird collaboration with the Talking Heads' David Byrne. Or maybe it's just that the woman formerly known as Anne Clark has a unique way of melding guitars and pianos with trumpets, flutes, saxophones and other instruments to create a mash up of electropop, shoegazing and jazz. Whatever the reason, St. Vincent's indelible approach to music is likely to help shape artists for generations to come. Now, her turn at designing instruments may also make it easier for the next generation of women rockers to shred. Advertisement Clark recently partnered with the guitar makers at Ernie Ball Music Man to design her own signature six string. The plug-in electric guitar is meant to be an ergonomic alternative to popular instruments, especially for women. It features a lightweight African mahogany body and premium roasted maple neck with St. Vincent signature custom inlays with a rosewood, ebony or maple fretboard. The lighter body and higher neck make the guitar easier to play while sitting down or standing. "There's room for a breast. Or two," St. Vincent said in a promo video for the guitar. That led many music fans to assume that the St. Vincent guitar was specifically designed for women. But St. Vincent has since made clear that this axe wasn't necessarily crafted just for the ladies. Jack White and Beck are among the artists who have strapped on the St. Vincent guitar for live performances. Now That's Interesting The "Frying Pan" a 1932 aluminum steel lap guitar equipped with electromagnets to pick up string vibrations is widely considered the first electric guitar. Research confirms that grapefruit juice prolongs the QT interval; this finding has implications for patients taking medications that prolong the QT interval and may have implications for patients with congenital long QT syndrome, according to a new study Philadelphia, May 8, 2019 - Grapefruit juice is already listed as a substance to avoid when taking QT-prolonging medications because it increases the toxicity of many drugs. Investigators have now confirmed the QT-prolonging effects of grapefruit juice in a new study and call for a stronger warning to patients who are taking QT-prolonging drugs or who have long QT syndrome because of the potential risk. They report their findings in HeartRhythm, the official journal of the Heart Rhythm Society and the Cardiac Electrophysiology Society, published by Elsevier. There are over 200 medications that prolong the QT interval, the time it takes for your heart muscle to recharge between beats. The list includes not only antiarrhythmic drugs, but also medications with no cardiac indications such as some antibiotics, antihistamines, and antipsychotic drugs. These drugs work mainly by blocking a specific "IKr" potassium channel on the myocardial (cardiac muscle) cell membrane, thus prolonging the repolarization in the ventricles of the heart. Abnormalities in the QT interval can also be caused by genetic conditions such as long QT syndrome. "With so many drugs, of such varied composition blocking the IKr channel, it is reasonable to assume that food compounds may also have IKr-channel-blocker properties, raising the possibility that 'proarrhythmic food' exists," explained Sami Viskin, MD, Department of Cardiology, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center and Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel, who led the study. "Previous studies showed that flavonoid compounds contained in grapefruit juice have IKr channel- blocking properties. We therefore tested the possibility that grapefruit juice has QT-prolonging properties." Investigators tested the effects of grapefruit juice on the QT interval following the same stringent criteria used by the pharmaceutical industry to test new drugs before market release. The study was performed according to the "Guidelines for the Clinical Evaluation of QT/QTc for Non-antiarrhythmic Drugs," namely, a randomized crossover design, accurate and blinded QT analysis. As positive control, they used moxifloxacin, an antibiotic with known, albeit small, QT-prolonging properties. Thirty healthy volunteers and ten patients with congenital long QT syndrome participated in a four-day thorough-QT-study. On days one and three, study subjects received no study drugs and underwent multiple electrocardiogram (ECG) recordings to test for the spontaneous daily variability, and spontaneous day-to-day variability of their QT interval. On days two and four, healthy participants received either moxifloxacin (one oral dose of 400 mg) or grapefruit juice (two liters in three divided doses hours apart) in random order. The patients with long QT syndrome received only grapefruit juice. The study confirmed that grapefruit juice prolongs the QT interval. Among healthy volunteers the net QT prolongation was small, but comparable to that caused by moxifloxacin. The grapefruit-induced QT prolongation was greater in females than in males and more so in patients with congenital long QT syndrome. Dr. Viskin and colleagues summarize the implications for patient subgroups as follow: Patients taking cardiac or non-cardiac medications that prolong the QT interval. Grapefruit juice is already listed as a substance to avoid when taking QT-prolonging medications because it inhibits the metabolism of many drugs, increasing their toxicity. The confirmed QT-prolonging effects of grapefruit juice call for an even stronger warning. Asymptomatic, healthy individuals. The doses of grapefruit juice tested in this study were large (two liters in three divided doses) and the net QT prolongation observed was small. The study does not imply that daily consumption of grapefruit juice involves any measurable risk for the general population. A possible exception could be the consumption of "health drinks" containing highly concentrated grapefruit products. Patients with congenital or other forms of long QT syndrome. Investigators recommend that these patients should be informed that drinking grapefruit juice in large quantities may impose some risk. "The net increase in QT interval caused by grapefruit among healthy volunteers was small, but in the range that, if grapefruit juice were a new drug in development, the results of the present study would probably lead the FDA to call for additional studies before issuing a final recommendation based on its expected benefits and risks," commented Dr. Viskin. ### Some solutions are 100 times cheaper than others, costing as little as $1 per person In what has been called "the largest mass poisoning of a population in history," some 40 million people in Bangladesh are drinking water that contains unsafe levels of arsenic. The naturally occurring element seeps into groundwater reached by shallow wells, and from there it has a huge impact on the health and lives of Bangladeshis; chronic exposure to arsenic is estimated to be responsible for six percent of deaths in the country. It causes cardiovascular disease, cancer, infant mortality, and motor and intellectual problems in children. Bangladesh's government is taking measures to address the problem, and plans to invest $200 million toward cleaning up water supplies. A new study, published last week in Environmental Science and Technology, could help to inform how that money would be best spent. The analysis compares four methods of dealing with the arsenic contamination, and pinpoints strategies to deliver cleaner water to the greatest number of people at the lowest cost. The study was inspired by a regional pipe water system recently built by the Bangladeshi government, said Lex van Geen, a research professor at Columbia University's Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory and a coauthor on the new study. "We saw that the pipe system cost several hundred thousand dollars, and that it was only helping a tiny part of the population." By comparing the costs and impacts of the different mitigation strategies, the study concludes that the government's strategies of constructing pipe systems and drilling deeper wells are the most expensive yet least effective options. Instead, the researchers recommend several strategies that could help more people at a much lower cost. Four Strategies The study, led by Nadia Jamil at Montclair State University, pulls from van Geen's decades-long research in Bangladesh. Van Geen's work has shown that simply testing well water and providing information about the risks of arsenic poisoning can get 60 percent of people, on average, to switch to lower-arsenic water sources. His team's most recent survey of 48,790 wells in Araihazar province is estimated to have helped 132,000 inhabitants find a cleaner source of water, at a cost of just $1 per person. Because arsenic contamination is more common in shallow wells, another strategy is to drill medium-depth wells. These private wells are a bit more expensive, costing $28 per person whose exposure is reduced. "The real shocker was that both of the government approaches were closer to $150 per person," says van Geen. These included drilling deep tubewells and constructing piped water supply systems. The researchers calculated that these strategies cost $143 and $158 per person, respectively. In addition, the government requires households to pay 10 percent of the cost of each well; as a result, the wells are often installed on private land instead of being a public resource, so they end up helping fewer people. Wider Implications Although the study focused on one district, called Araihazar Upazila, the authors think the results have significant implications for arsenic mitigation all over Bangladesh. "It strengthens the importance of widespread testing programs, which would work as a basis for other mitigation options," said Jamil. "Testing is the cheapest of all mitigation methods." She added that the study also underlines the potential of intermediate wells, which are quite low in cost, but have been "overlooked for a long period of time for unknown reasons." The team hopes to share its village-level data on contaminated wells in order to inform where best to place these intermediate wells. Due to the high cost of piped water systems, the study recommends that this approach should be used only as a last resort in areas where not even deep wells can provide low arsenic water. However, van Geen says his conversations with government officials have indicated that they will likely continue investing in deep tubewells and piped water systems, despite the fact that cheaper and more impactful strategies exist. There may be ways to increase the effectiveness of deep wells. The authors mention that by siting the wells in a more strategic way and ensuring they are truly public, just 916 wells could bring 132,000 inhabitants with an unsafe well to within 100-meters of a safe source of water. The researchers are currently exploring strategies to help make these deep well deployments more tactical. "The government is spending the money on deep wells anyway," he says, "so why not do it better?" ### Researchers from King's College London have found that therapy that can induce heart cells to regenerate after a heart attack. Myocardial infarction, more commonly known as a heart attack, caused by the sudden blocking of one of the cardiac coronary arteries, is the main cause of heart failure, a condition that now affects over 23 million population in the world, according to the World Health Organisation. At present, when a patient survives a heart attack, they are left with permanent structural damage to their heart through the formation of a scar, which can lead to heart failure in the future. In contrast to fish and salamander, which can regenerate the heart throughout life. In this study, published today in Nature, the team of investigators delivered a small piece of genetic material, called microRNA-199, to the heart of pigs, after a myocardial infarction which resulted in the almost complete recovery of cardiac function at one month later. Lead author Professor Mauro Giacca, from King's College London said: "It is a very exciting moment for the field. After so many unsuccessful attempts at regenerating the heart using stem cells, which all have failed so far, for the first time we see real cardiac repair in a large animal." This is the first demonstration that cardiac regeneration can be achieved by administering an effective genetic drug that stimulates cardiac regeneration in a large animal, with heart anatomy and physiology like that of humans. "It will take some time before we can proceed to clinical trials" explained Professor Giacca. "We still need to learn how to administer the RNA as a synthetic molecule in large animals and then in patients, but we already know this works well in mice". ### The study was a collaboration with the International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), a United Nations organisation in Trieste, Italy and the Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna and Fondazione Monasterio hospital in Pisa, Italy, where investigators led by Professor Fabio Recchia performed the animal experiments. Professor Giacca and his team joined the School of Cardiovascular Medicine & Sciences BHF Centre of Excellence of King's College London from Trieste earlier this year to continue translation of these studies in patients. This study, published in the latest issue of the journal InMediaciones de la comunicacion, analyzes the perception that university faculty have regarding the role played by communication of the science, technology and innovation taking place at the Spanish public universities, through their offices of institutional communication and their Scientific Culture and Innovation Units (UCC+i) and its media impact. "Beyond the communication and dissemination that researchers themselves can undertake, the role that these institutions play in information and public communication, far from causing any type of negative effect, results in a range of positive effects on researchers' careers by augmenting their visibility as well as their impact in the scientific community. As such, it improves their professional prestige and increases the likelihood of obtaining more funding for future lines of work," the study pointed out. In general, the majority of researchers (65.4%) perceive some type of benefit after having their research results published. "The most common benefit that they point to is that, thanks to these communication campaigns, their research becomes more known to other fellow researchers in Spain (46.5% of the cases), which can then lead to an increase in citations of their academic work by these colleagues. This is precisely one of the factors that determines the quality of a scientific article," explained one of the study's authors, Francisco Javier Alonso Flores, who is head of the Scientific Culture and Innovation Unit (UCC+i) that pertains to the UC3M Office of the Vice-President for Culture and Communication. In addition, one out of four researchers (27.2%) received requests to give talks on their related subjects after their work appeared in the communication media. Furthermore, one out of five (20.9%) were contacted by companies interested in their line of research, "which can improve synergy with industrial and business sector." As for any possible negative effects, a large majority of the researchers (84.7%) did not perceive that there were any. Specifically, fewer than one in ten of those surveyed (8.1%) felt that the communication media had distorted or incorrectly interpreted the research news. In general, the majority of the researchers (68.6%) stated that the communication media informs and represents the subjects they deal with well (42%) or very well, (26.6%), giving the journalists' work a high score (7.7 out of 10). "Two out of three researchers (66.9%) think that information provided in the communication media on subjects related to specialized R+D+i in the past decade has improved. The vast majority (96.1%) believe that this type of specialized journalism is essential to properly deal with this kind of content," observed Carolina Moreno Castro, one of the study's authors and Full Professor of Journalism in the Department of Theory of Languages and Communication Sciences at the Universidad de Valencia. "After carrying out statistical processing on all the responses and variables, we have found a significant difference in the opinion of those researchers who have participated in communications actions as opposed to those who have not done so. Those who have participated tend to rate the work of the university communicators and the communication media journalists more highly," observed, Antonio Eleazar Serrano Lopez, another of the study's authors. Serrano Lopez is a professor in the UC3M Department of Library Science and Documentation, and a member of the Research Institute for Higher Education and Science (INAECU). ### This study is based on responses from over 500 researchers in 20 Spanish public universities: Alcala, Alicante, Autonoma de Barcelona, Autonoma de Madrid, Barcelona, Carlos III de Madrid, Complutense de Madrid, Cordoba, Granada, Jaen, Jaume I de Castellon, Malaga, Oviedo, Politecnica de Madrid, Politecnica de Valencia, Rey Juan Carlos, Rovira y Virgili, Sevilla, Valencia and Zaragoza. The inform was presented on April 26th in the tenth edition of ComCiRed (Communicate Science online), a meeting of the UCC+i organized at the University of Oviedo by Spanish Foundation of Science and Technology (FECYT) of the Ministry of Science, Universities and Research of Spain. Bibliographic references: La publicacion de noticias sobre los resultados de I+D+i. Como es percibida por los investigadores espanoles? Alonso-Flores, Javier; Serrano-Lopez, Antonio Eleazar; Moreno-Castro, Carolina. InMediaciones de la comunicacion, Vol. 13, N. 2, 2018, pags. 115-140. A study of over 87,000 documents obtained through Freedom of Information requests has revealed a contract mechanism that could allow Coca-Cola to "quash" findings from some of the health research it funds at public universities in the US and Canada. The study, published today in the Journal of Public Health Policy, identified several clauses in legal documents that give the company early sight of any findings, combined with the right to "terminate without reason" and walk away with the data and intellectual property. Taken together, these clauses could suppress "critical health information", and indeed may have done so already, according to the study's authors. Much of the research Coca-Cola supports is in the fields of nutrition, physical inactivity and energy balance. The authors argue that the clauses contravene Coca-Cola's commitments to transparent and "unrestricted" support for science, which came after criticism of the opaque way some major food corporations fund health research. Researchers from the University of Cambridge, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, University of Bocconi, and US Right to Know, call on corporate funders to publish lists of terminated studies. They say scientists should publish agreements with industry to reassure the public that findings are free from influence. "It is certainly true that the contracts we have found allow for unfavourable developments or findings to be quashed prior to publication," said lead author Dr Sarah Steele, a policy researcher from Cambridge's Department of Politics and International Studies. "Coca-Cola have declared themselves at the forefront of transparency when it comes to food and beverage giants funding health research. In fact, our study suggests that important research might never see the light of day and we would never know about it. "We are already hearing accusations from experts in nutrition that the food industry is copying tactics from big tobacco's playbook. Corporate social responsibility has to be more than just shiny websites stating progressive policies that get ignored." Consumption of high calorie, low nutrient food and drink is believed to be a major factor in the childhood obesity epidemic. Last year, the UK government introduced a "sugar tax" on many soft drinks, including Coca-Cola's flagship product. US Right to Know, a non-profit consumer and public health research group, submitted 129 FOI requests between 2015 and 2018 relating to academics at North American institutions who received Coca-Cola funding. The research team combed through the vast tranche of resulting documents and discovered five research agreements made with four universities: Louisiana State University, University of South Carolina, University of Toronto and the University of Washington. The funded work includes "energy flux and balance" studies and research on beverage intake during exercise. Coca-Cola's own transparency website declares that scientists retain full control over their research and the company has no right to prevent publication of results. However, while contracts show Coca-Cola does not control day-to-day conduct, the company retains various rights throughout the process. These include the right to receive updates and comment on findings prior to research publication, and the power to terminate studies early without reason. The documents yielded by the FOI requests contained no firm examples of Coca-Cola suppressing unfavourable research, although the study authors say "what is important is that the provision exists". All documents relating to the contracts are now accessible on the US Right to Know website. Emails show one scientist expressing uncertainty over his study termination ("...they have not communicated with us in several months") and concern over intellectual property. Another scientist is seen arguing that his contract is "very restrictive for an 'unrestricted grant'". "These contracts suggest that Coke wanted the power to bury research it funded that might detract from its image or profits," said Gary Ruskin, co-director of US Right to Know. "With the power to trumpet positive findings and bury negative ones, Coke-funded science seems more like an exercise in public relations." The researchers acknowledge that the food and beverage industry may be updating research contracts in line with new public commitments, but without seeing those contracts it is hard to know. They say their Coca-Cola case study suggests a continued lack of transparency that should be remedied with "hard" information on funding, rather than relying on self-reported conflicts of interest. "Journals should require authors of funded research to upload the research agreements for studies as appendices to any peer-reviewed publication," said Steele. "The lack of robust information on input by industry and on studies terminated before results are published, makes it impossible to know how much of the research entering the public domain reflects industry positions." ### An English bibliotaph of fifty years residence in Wales pontificates about politics (slightly off-message), films and trivia. Acting secretary of Aberavon and Neath Liberal Democrats. Candidate for Neath in the Westminster elections of 1997 & 2017 and the Welsh general election of 2016. TWEET ME DISCLAIMER *COMMENTS, LINKS, AND CUT AND PASTE ARTICLES, ARE NOT ALL ENDORSED BY THE PUBLISHER. THIS BLOG claims no credit for any images posted on this site unless otherwise noted. Images on this blog are copyright to its respectful owners. If there is an image appearing on this blog that belongs to you and do not wish for it appear on this site, please E-mail with a link to said image and it will be promptly removed. MORE DISCLAIMERS This is a commercial free blog. Money is nice, but being able to speak my mind is better. "Real talk: Daniel Rubin has a great little piece up wherein he chats with The Field Negro, the Philly-based blogger who sharply ponders all things black on a daily basis. (Seriously, if youve never checked in with TFN, you should: Its author, Wayne Bennett, is a fantastic read who can cut through bullshit like a hot knife through butter, which is a far grosser analogy than I wanted to make, but there you have it.)" ~Philebrity~ "One of the most precocious and hilarious Black political minds on the net. Ive been a long-time fan!" ~Asad Malik~ "..While most of what he writes is tongue-in-cheek, his space is a safe house for candid discussions about race, especially in the comments section, where people of all colors meet." ~~Daniel Rubin, "The Philadelphia Inquirer"~~ "To white people, Bennett's musings are like kitchen-table talk from a kitchen they may otherwise never set foot in. To African Americans, he is part of a growing army of black Internet amateurs who have taken up the work once reserved for ministers and professional activists: the work of setting a black agenda, shaping black opinion and calling attention to the state of the nation's racial affairs." ~~Richard Fausset, "L.A. Times"~~~ ~Erik Hare, "The Twin Cities Daily Planet"~ "That's why I love the blog " Field Negro " so much. Field, as he's known to his fans, has the sense of reality that it takes to call out the ( CowPuckey ) of blame beating by those who are in positions of power and their lackeys. Because of his handle and his unabashed way of writing about racial issues, Field is often cited as a "Black blogger." What he is, however, is a first-class detector of blame deflection and an excellent student of history. If you want to write about the past and future of repression there's really no other perspective to take - which is why everyone should read Field."~Erik Hare, "The Twin Cities Daily Planet"~ 411 On The Field field negro Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States Raised in the house, but field certified. Jamaica is the land of my birth, but I consider myself a citizen of the world. I currently practice law in the city of "brotherly love". View my complete profile "Half a century after Little Rock, the Montgomery bus boycott and the tumultuous dawn of the modern civil rights era, the new face of the movement is Facebook, MySpace and some 150 black blogs united in an Internet alliance they call the AfroSpear. Older, familiar leaders such as Rev. Jesse Jackson, Rev. Al Sharpton and NAACP Chairman Julian Bond, are under challenge by a younger generation of bloggers known by such provocative screen names as Field Negro, thefreeslave and African American Political Pundit. And many of the newest struggles are being waged online." ~Howard Witt-The Chicago Tribune~ "I had no idea, for example, of the extent of the African-American blogging world out there and its collective powers of dissemination.But now, after reading thousands of anguished, thoughtful comments posted on these blogs reflecting on issues of persistent racial discrimination in the nation's schools and courtrooms, what's clear to me is that there's a new, "virtual" civil rights movement out there on the Internet that can reach more people in a few hours than all the protest marches, sit-ins and boycotts of the 1950s and 60s put together." ~Chicago Tribune Reporter, Howard Witt~ IF YOU ARE BRAVE ENOUGH TO FLAUNT IT. Come visit my store on CafePress! BJ's Wholesale Club may not be as big as rivals Costco and Sam's Club, but this warehouse store offers great bargains to shoppers looking to buy in bulk. Primarily located in the eastern part of the U.S., BJ's offers in-store memberships starting at $55 a year. The retailer has a $10 online access membership if you only want to shop through their website. BJ's also routinely offers discounted memberships to new customers. That membership fee allows BJ's to deliver markups lower than typical grocery chains, with prices often around 10% lower, Krazy Coupon Lady co-founder Joanie Demer tells CNBC Make It . Still, depending on your circumstances, not everything sold there is going to be a great deal for you. Because BJ's often sells products in bulk, you need to be able to eat any perishable food before it goes bad, for example. So which products offer the best bargains? To find out, Make It asked a few shopping experts what items are always on their "must-buy" lists when shopping at BJ's. Here are eight types of products they recommend. Baby supplies When her kids were in diapers, frugal shopping expert Lauren Greutman says the Berkley Jensen brand of diapers were a staple. BJ's sells its members a 180-count pack of size 3 Berkley Jensen ultra absorbent diapers for $25.99, or about 14 cents per diaper. By contrast, Costco sells a 198-count pack of size 3 Kirkland Signature Supreme diapers for $42.99, which is about 22 cents per diaper. But the deals on baby products go beyond just diapers, Tasia Boland, founder of the MyBJsWholesale.com blog, tells CNBC Make It. Wipes, bottles, and even car seats are affordably priced at BJ's. "The BJ's brand definitely makes it cheap," Boland says. Plus BJ's has a 100% money-back guarantee, so if you try them and they don't work, you can take back the unused items. Coffee "Coffee is a really great deal at BJ's," Boland says. The store has sales on coffee frequently, too: About every other month, BJ's offers shoppers a $5 off coupon, Boland reports. Story continues Starbucks coffee, in particular, is a bargain at BJ's, especially when you take the coupon into account. BJ's sells the Caffe Verona dark roast ground coffee in a 40-ounce package for $19.99 in-store, according to the website. That's roughly 50 cents per ounce without a coupon. But $5 off brings the cost down to 37 cents per ounce. A 28-ounce package of the same coffee at Walmart retails for $15.98, about 57 cents per ounce. Meanwhile Target sells a 20-ounce bag of the Verona coffee for $12.69, or 63 cents per ounce. Dairy products When it comes to dairy, Greutman says she regularly shops at BJ's. "The big things I usually pick up there are butter and cheese," she says. Specifically, she says American cheese slices are typically a good deal. Individual yogurts are also on her list. When CNBC Make It compared BJ's and Costco products last month , we found BJ's brand of butter and shredded mozzarella cheese was significantly cheaper than Costco's. However, when it comes to affordable dairy items, milk is not on the list. "Milk is actually more expensive at BJ's than it is at Aldi, so I typically don't buy milk at BJ's," Greutman says. Fresh meat Not only does BJ's generally offer affordable prices on fresh meat, but each store has a butcher on the premises, which can lead to huge savings, Boland says. That's because, if you ask, one of BJ's butchers will repackage your meat into smaller quantities for free. So you still get the wholesale club price without having to store 25 pounds of ground beef in your freezer. When CNBC Make It compared prices on 93% lean ground beef, BJ's priced in at $15.49 for a 4-pound package, or about $3.87 per pound, according to prices listed online for in-store pickup. This was a lot cheaper than Walmart, which offered a similar lean ground beef for $5.24 per pound . Laundry detergent BJ's is also great for laundry supplies, Boland says, namely detergent. The retailer sells its 170-ounce Berkley Jensen Ultra liquid laundry detergent, which is comparable to the Tide brand, for $13.99. In contrast, Costco sells its Tide-comparable product, a 194-ounce Kirkland Signature Ultra Clean Refreshing laundry detergent, for $17.59, according to prices posted online. In this case, Costco ends up being 9 cents an ounce, while BJ's is about 8 cents. And when it comes to quality, Boland says the BJ's brand works fine for the price. "The scent doesn't stay as long as Tide does, but as far as the cleaning aspect, it works just as well," she says. The name-brand Tide detergent retails for $23.99 at BJ's for a 200-ounce container. Propane Summer grilling season is just around the corner. That means you may need to fill up your propane tank and BJ's offers a good deal, according to Boland. At the BJ's near her in Henrietta, New York, it's about $9.99 to refill a tank. You can buy the tank for about $30. Closer to New York City, it costs about $15.99 for members to refill a tank at the BJ's in North Bergen, New Jersey, according to a sales associate CNBC Make It spoke with. That's cheaper than the nearby Home Depot, which charges around $19, according to a store sales associate. Paper products Disposable paper products, including paper plates and cups, are also a good buy at BJ's, according to Boland. BJ's has a 220-count package of Berkley Jensen paper plates for $11.99 and a 108-count package of Berkley Jensen 12-ounce cups that can be used for hot or cold drinks for $12.99. Toilet paper, paper towels and tissues are also cheaper at BJ's, Boland says. "BJ's has their own brand and I love the quality," she says. In 2017, the store's Berkley Jensen Ultra Soft toilet paper won top marks in a Good Housekeeping test . Currently, Costco's sells a 36-count package of its Kirkland Ultra Soft toilet paper for $26.99. Meanwhile BJ's sells a similar package of its Berkley Jensen brand toilet paper for $15.99. But she says if you're a couponer, keep in mind you may be able to score even better deals at other retailers. However, it comes down to, "how much work do you want to put in to get that cheaper toilet paper or do you just want to go and grab it off the shelf?" Boland asks. If you don't want to put in the effort to couponing, BJ's is still a bargain. Spices and baking supplies Like with Costco, spices and baking supplies are a good buy at BJ's, in large part because the bulk quantities are less likely to go bad before you use them up. But between the two retailers, BJ's edged out Costco on price when CNBC Make It evaluated the two stores. For example, a 10-pound bag of name-brand sugar was $5.79 at Costco, while a similar package of sugar was just $4.99 at BJ's. Boland finds that BJ's organic cane sugar is also a good deal, as well as BJ's prices on Gold Medal flour. Don't miss: BJ's and Costco can both save you moneybut if you want to shop online, this one's the better deal 7 foods, grocery items and other essentials to always buy at Walmart 5 items you should always buy at Targetand 2 you can skip 6 foods you should never buy at Whole Foods 5 foods you should always buy at Aldi 8 foods you should always buy at Trader Joe's 9 foods and grocery items you should always buy at Costco Like this story? Subscribe to CNBC Make It on YouTube! More From CNBC Atlanta, May 08, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Acuity Brands, Inc. (AYI) introduced today the WINLINE 500 Series of linear accent luminaires from Winona, which offer superior optical performance and efficacy along with design flexibility for indoor spaces and outdoor applications requiring IP66-rated enclosures. Whether used for flood lighting, grazing or wall washing, the WINLINE 500 Series provides exceptional beam control, placing illumination precisely where it is intended. Within a single platform, the WINLINE 500 Series offers multiple color temperature choices including static white and static color, dynamic color, tunable white or warm dimming capabilities. The Series uses an eldoLED driver that delivers smooth and flicker-free deep dimming to <1% and dim-to-dark performance. Also, the Series offers luminaires with lumen outputs from 300 up to 1000 lumens per linear foot, allowing the matching of the right amount of light to an application. We developed the WINLINE 500 Series as a complete linear solution to help specifiers address multiple accent lighting applications, said Cleveland Blankenship, Business Unit Leader, Acuity Brands Lighting. The Series superior optical performance provides precise lighting across multiple distribution options, including narrow and wide spot, narrow and wide flood, cove and asymmetric beam configurations. For more information, the WINLINE 500 Series will be on display at the Acuity Brands booth #1201 during LIGHTFAIR International 2019, May 21-23, at the Pennsylvania Convention Center in Philadelphia, or visit WINLINE 500 Series . About Acuity Brands Acuity Brands, Inc. (AYI) is the North American market leader and one of the worlds leading providers of lighting and building management solutions. With fiscal year 2018 net sales of $3.7 billion, Acuity Brands currently employs approximately 12,000 associates and is headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia with operations throughout North America, and in Europe and Asia. The Companys products and solutions are sold under various brands, including Lithonia Lighting, Holophane, Aculux, American Electric Lighting, Antique Street Lamps, Atrius, DGLogik, Distech Controls, DTL, eldoLED, Gotham, Healthcare Lighting, Hydrel, Indy, IOTA, Juno, Lucid, Mark Architectural Lighting, nLight, Peerless, RELOC Wiring, ROAM, Sensor Switch, Sunoptics and Winona Lighting. Visit us at www.acuitybrands.com Story continues Attachment Media Contact: Neil Egan Neil.Egan@acuitybrands.com 770-860-2957 Airlines Take Notice of Millennials With New Strategies When he was in his early 30s and working at American Airlines, Patrick Quayle visited Cape Town, South Africa, for an adventure-filled vacation. When he left, he vowed hed try to add Cape Town if he ever chose routes for an airline. Quayle, now 40, recently got his chance. Hes vice president for international planning at United Airlines, deciding where it will fly and when. Starting in December, United will fly three times per week from Newark to Cape Town, though only during the Southern Hemisphere summer. United is the first U.S. airline to fly to Cape Town. As Quayle becomes more comfortable on the job he joined about two years ago from American he is looking for new leisure-focused routes that might attract younger vacationers who seek options beyond usual hotspots in Western Europe and North America. Airlines need considerable demand to make an international route viable, so Quayle may never launch a new flight to that remote fishing village in South America or tiny mountain town in Africa. But on the margins, Quayle wants Uniteds network to include more cities he and his friends want to visit. And theyre seeking options beyond Rome, Honolulu, and Orlando. Last year, he added Papeete, Tahiti, from San Francisco, a route that attracts vacationers who want to go farther afield than Hawaii. He has also added flights to a few cities that attract both business and vacation travelers, including Tel Aviv and Auckland, a gateway to popular New Zealand markets. We are millennials and we are looking to have different travel experiences than our parents, Quayle said. As a result of that, the network has to evolve and look different. Quayle is not the only airline executive trying to tap into this trend. Many millennials are nearly 40, with steady jobs and enough money to explore the world. Some can afford business class, and those who cannot are often splurging for premium economy, making millennials an important business segment. Story continues At United, Quayle said, passengers pay about twice as much for premium economy as economy, even though the seats do not take up twice the room. Singapore Airlines has also had success selling its premium economy to mature millennials, said Sek Eng Lee, regional vice president for the Americas. Its people who are in their 30s, he said in an interview. These are people who already have stable jobs and disposable income and they have aspirations to see more of the world. They are discerning. They dont mind paying a little more for a nice travel experience. Singapores Experience Lee has some interesting anecdotal evidence suggesting changes in travel trends. For about a decade, ending in 2013, Singapore flew nonstop from Los Angeles and New York to Singapore. Mostly, the airline marketed the flights for business travelers, promising they could save valuable time and arrive more refreshed. But some leisure travelers flew the routes too, often connecting in Singapore to visit places like Bangkok and Bali. In 2016, Singapore again started flying nonstop to the United States, from San Francisco, and last year, it resumed flying from Los Angeles and New York. Thats good for business and leisure travelers seeking a nonstop flight, but it also allows Singapore to compete for one-stop connections from Los Angeles, San Francisco, and New York to tourist markets across Southeast Asia. The traffic flows are a little different now than six years ago, Lee said. After arriving at Changi Airport, travelers are transferring to flights to places like Siem Reap, Cambodia, or Chiang Mai, Thailand, or Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia. Theyre also going to Da Nang, Vietnam, a place Lee called a very Instagrammable location. We are seeing people going to places off the beaten track, Lee said. We fly to numerous points in Asia, and it really caters well to these new emerging groups customers who are exploring far-flung places where their parents have not been before. It is a very encouraging trend for us. Uniteds Growth As much as Quayle likes trying destinations that will interest younger travelers seeking to push boundaries, its still a niche business. Like planners at other carriers, he spends the bulk of his time evaluating more traditional routes. In the past two years, he has added flights to business destinations like Singapore, Seoul, and Frankfurt, as well as more traditional vacation spots such as Naples, Italy. But over time, Quayle said, Uniteds network could evolve further, giving United a competitive advantage. London Heathrow and Tokyo and Hong Kong and Frankfurt are core business routes, he said. The same people who fly those are also looking for something different. We can offer them something that isnt on the shelf at the other carriers. Given its size, United always will have major capacity to Hawaii, Florida, and Western European capitals. But Quayle said hes confident he can find more routes millennials will like. We can tap into this growing segment, he said. It is not necessarily about how many times you can go to Disney World, but it is about creating special, unique moments. Samuel Engel, senior vice president and head of the aviation group at ICF, a consulting firm, said he understands Uniteds strategy, but said he doubts it is responding to any massive change in passenger demand. Instead, he said, United is probably looking to expand to new markets because of changes in the U.S. domestic environment. Some routes, he said, will work, while others may not and could be cut. When yields soften at home, carriers go hunting abroad, Engel said. We have seen this through multiple cycles. And when capacity abroad gets saturated, the capacity shifts back. Subscribe to Skift newsletters covering the business of travel, restaurants, and wellness. Achieved First Quarter 2019 TEGSEDI (inotersen) Global Net Product Revenues of $7 Million Novartis exercised its option to license AKCEA-APO(a)-L Rx Received marketing authorization for WAYLIVRA (volanesorsen) in E.U. Conference Call Webcast Wednesday, May 8, 4:30 p.m. ET at www.akceatx.com BOSTON, May 08, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Akcea Therapeutics, Inc. (AKCA), an affiliate of Ionis Pharmaceuticals, Inc., focused on developing and commercializing drugs to treat patients with serious and rare diseases, today reported financial results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2019. Due to the one-time license fee from Novartis, the company reported operating income for the first quarter ended March 31, 2019 on a GAAP basis of $26 million and on a non-GAAP basis of $45 million. Akcea had $322 million of cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments as of March 31, 2019. We had a highly productive start to 2019 and are executing on our plans as a commercial organization. We are building a multi-product company with the approval of WAYLIVRA in the E.U. and continuing with our launch of TEGSEDI, said Paula Soteropoulos, chief executive officer of Akcea. We are seeing positive momentum in the launch of TEGSEDI and continuing to make progress on our broad pipeline of products for patients with ATTR amyloidosis and cardiometabolic diseases. We remain steadfast in our goal of continuing to build Akcea into a trusted, patient-focused, global company delivering important and life-changing therapies to patients with rare and serious diseases. We have achieved $7 million in product sales in our first full quarter of the TEGSEDI launch. Our strong cash balance supports our commercial and development efforts. We are able to realize a meaningful operational efficiency, including launching multiple products in the EU, said Michael MacLean, chief financial officer. Upcoming Events Launch of TEGSEDI in additional E.U. countries Launch of WAYLIVRA in the E.U., beginning with Germany Report top line results from Phase 3 study of WAYLIVRA in familial partial lipodystrophy, or FPL, in the middle of this year Report top line results from the Phase 1/2 AKCEA-TTR-LRx study in 2H 2019 Initiate AKCEA-TTR-LRx Phase 3 program in 2H 2019 Report top line results from Phase 2 studies of AKCEA-ANGPTL3-LRx and AKCEA-APOCIII-LRx in 1H 2020 Recent Events Story continues Launched TEGSEDI in the U.S., Germany and Canada to treat patients with polyneuropathy of hATTR amyloidosis Received conditional marketing authorization following a positive CHMP opinion for WAYLIVRA in the E.U., earning a $6M milestone payment from PTC Therapeutics Licensed AKCEA-APO(a)-LRx to Novartis resulting in a $150 million license fee to Akcea split equally with Ionis Highlighted the long-term efficacy and safety of TEGSEDI in an oral presentation at the American Academy of Neurology (AAN) Annual Meeting Completed enrollment in the Phase 2 studies of AKCEA-ANGPTL3-LRx and AKCEA-APOCIII-LRx Presented at the American College of Cardiology (ACC) on the benefits of treatment with TEGSEDI Financial Results All non-GAAP amounts referred to in this press release exclude non-cash compensation expense related to equity awards. Please refer to the reconciliation of non-GAAP and GAAP measures, which is provided later in this release. Revenue Akceas total revenue for the first quarter ended March 31, 2019 was $164 million, which was comprised of product revenue and research and development and license revenue. Revenue from sales of TEGSEDI in the first quarter ended March 31, 2019 was $7 million. Akceas research and development and license revenue for the first quarter ended March 31, 2019 was $157 million. Research and development and license revenue was primarily related to the $150 million license fee the company earned as a result of Novartis exercise of its option to license AKCEA-APO(a)-L Rx. Additionally, Akcea recognized research and development revenue related to the amortization of the upfront payment the company received upon the initiation of the collaboration agreement. Expenses Akceas operating expenses, inclusive of the reimbursement due from Ionis through the companies profit/loss share arrangement, for the three months ended March 31, 2019 on a GAAP basis were $138 million, and on a non-GAAP basis were $119 million. These amounts compare to GAAP operating expenses of $47 million and non-GAAP operating expenses of $41 million for the same period in 2018. These increases primarily relate to the one-time $75 million sublicense fee paid to Ionis as a result of Novartis exercise of its option to license AKCEA-APO(a)-L Rx , higher development costs, including for AKCEA-TTR-L Rx , and commercialization costs for TEGSEDI and WAYLIVRA in the first quarter ended March 31, 2019 compared to the same period in 2018. Net Income (Loss) Akcea reported net income of $27 million on a GAAP basis for the three months ended March 31, 2019, compared to a net loss of $30 million for the same period in 2018. Akcea reported non-GAAP net income of $46 million for the three months ended March 31, 2019, compared to a non-GAAP net loss of $23 million for the same period in 2018. This increase in non-GAAP net income was primarily due to the $150 million license fee the company earned as a result of Novartis exercise of its option to license AKCEA-APO(a)-L Rx and commercial product revenue which was partially offset by the sublicense fee to Ionis of $75 million, increased operating expenses related to commercialization costs for TEGSEDI and WAYLIVRA and higher development costs. For the three months ended March 31, 2019, basic net income per share of common stock owned by Ionis and others was $0.35 and $0.15, respectively. For the three months ended March 31, 2019, diluted net income per share of common stock owned by Ionis and others was $0.34 and $0.15, respectively. For the three months ended March 31, 2018, basic and diluted net loss per share of common stock owned by Ionis and others was $0.44. All amounts are on a GAAP basis. Balance Sheet As of March 31, 2019, Akcea had cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments of $322 million compared to $253 million at December 31, 2018, which the Company believes is sufficient to fund global commercial efforts and to fund progression of Akceas current pipeline to decision events. Conference Call At 4:30 p.m. Eastern Time today, May 8, 2019, Akcea will conduct a live webcast conference call to discuss this earnings release and related activities. Interested parties may listen to the call by dialing (855) 237-2439, passcode 4357317 or access the webcast at www.akceatx.com . A webcast replay will be available for a limited time at the same address. ABOUT AKCEA THERAPEUTICS Akcea Therapeutics, Inc., an affiliate of Ionis Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (IONS), is a biopharmaceutical company focused on developing and commercializing drugs to treat patients with serious and rare diseases. Akcea is commercializing TEGSEDI (inotersen) and advancing a mature pipeline of novel drugs, including WAYLIVRA (volanesorsen), AKCEA-APO(a)-L Rx , AKCEA-ANGPTL3-L Rx , AKCEA-APOCIII-L Rx , and AKCEA-TTR-L Rx , with the potential to treat multiple diseases. All six drugs were discovered by and are being co-developed with Ionis, a leader in antisense therapeutics, and are based on Ionis proprietary antisense technology. TEGSEDI is approved in the U.S., E.U. and Canada. WAYLIVRA is approved in the E.U. and is currently in Phase 3 clinical development for the treatment of people with familial partial lipodystrophy, or FPL. Akcea is building the infrastructure to commercialize its drugs globally. Akcea is a global company headquartered in Boston, Massachusetts. Additional information about Akcea is available at www.akceatx.com and you can follow us on twitter at @akceatx. FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENT This press release includes forward-looking statements regarding the business of Akcea Therapeutics, Inc. and the therapeutic and commercial potential of TEGSEDI (inotersen), WAYLIVRA (volanesorsen) and other products in development. Any statement describing Akceas goals, expectations, financial or other projections, intentions or beliefs is a forward-looking statement and should be considered an at-risk statement. Such statements are subject to certain risks and uncertainties, particularly those inherent in the process of discovering, developing and commercializing drugs that are safe and effective for use as human therapeutics, and in the endeavor of building a business around such drugs. Akceas forward-looking statements also involve assumptions that, if they never materialize or prove correct, could cause its results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Although Akceas forward-looking statements reflect the good faith judgment of its management, these statements are based only on facts and factors currently known by Akcea. As a result, you are cautioned not to rely on these forward-looking statements. These and other risks concerning Akcea's programs are described in additional detail in Akcea's annual report on Form 10-K, and its most recent quarterly report on Form 10-Q, which are on file with the SEC. Copies of these and other documents are available from the Company. In this press release, unless the context requires otherwise, Ionis, Akcea, Company, Companies, we, our, and us refers to Ionis Pharmaceuticals and/or Akcea Therapeutics. Ionis Pharmaceuticals is a trademark of Ionis Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Akcea Therapeutic TEGSEDI and WAYLIVRA are trademarks of Akcea Therapeutics, Inc. AKCEA THERAPEUTICS INC. SELECTED FINANCIAL INFORMATION Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations (In Thousands, Except Share and Per Share Data) Three Months Ended March 31, 2019 2018 (unaudited) Revenue: Product revenue, net $ 6,754 $ - R&D and license revenue 157,062 17,108 Total revenue 163,816 17,108 Expenses: Cost of sales and license 2,444 - Research and development 99,619 27,970 Selling, general and administrative 44,602 19,465 Net loss share from commercial activities under arrangement with Ionis Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (9,056 ) - Total expenses 137,609 47,435 Income (loss) from operations 26,207 (30,327 ) Other income (expense): Investment income 1,224 868 Other expense (112 ) (168 ) Income (loss) before income tax expense 27,319 (29,627 ) Income tax expense (132 ) - Net income (loss) $ 27,187 $ (29,627 ) Net income (loss) per share of common stock owned by Ionis, basic $ 0.35 $ (0.44 ) Weighted-average shares of common stock outstanding owned by Ionis, basic 68,581,967 45,447,879 Net income (loss) per share of common stock owned by others, basic $ 0.15 $ (0.44 ) Weighted-average shares of common stock outstanding owned by others, basic 22,126,363 21,171,372 Net income (loss) per share of common stock owned by Ionis, diluted $ 0.34 $ (0.44 ) Weighted-average shares of common stock outstanding owned by Ionis, 68,581,967 45,447,879 diluted Net income (loss) per share of common stock owned by others, diluted $ 0.15 $ (0.44 ) Weighted-average shares of common stock outstanding owned by others, 25,545,975 21,171,372 diluted AKCEA THERAPEUTICS INC. Reconciliation of GAAP to Non-GAAP Basis: Condensed Consolidated Operating Expenses, Loss from Operations, and Net Loss (In Thousands) Three Months Ended March 31, 2019 2018 (unaudited) As reported operating expenses according to GAAP $ 137,609 $ 47,435 Excluding compensation expense related to equity awards 18,560 6,384 Non-GAAP operating expenses $ 119,049 $ 41,051 As reported income (loss) from operations according to GAAP $ 26,207 $ (30,327 ) Excluding compensation expense related to equity awards 18,560 6,384 Non-GAAP income (loss) from operations $ 44,767 $ (23,943 ) As reported net income (loss) according to GAAP $ 27,187 $ (29,627 ) Excluding compensation expense related to equity awards 18,560 6,384 Non-GAAP net income (loss) $ 45,747 $ (23,243 ) Reconciliation of GAAP to non-GAAP Basis As illustrated in the Selected Financial Information in this press release, non-GAAP operating expenses, non-GAAP income (loss) from operations, and non-GAAP net income (loss) were adjusted from GAAP to exclude compensation expense related to equity awards, which are non-cash expenses. Akcea has regularly reported non-GAAP measures for operating results as non-GAAP results. These measures are provided as supplementary information and are not a substitute for financial measures calculated in accordance with GAAP. Akcea reports these non-GAAP results to better enable financial statement users to assess and compare its historical performance and project its future operating results and cash flows. Further, the presentation of Akceas non-GAAP results is consistent with how Akceas management internally evaluates the performance of its operations. AKCEA THERAPEUTICS INC. Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (In Thousands) March 31, December 31, 2019 2018 (unaudited) Assets: Cash and cash equivalents $ 201,027 $ 86,454 Short-term investments 120,765 166,155 Accounts receivable 10,269 4,597 Receivable from Ionis Pharmaceuticals, Inc. 7,206 - Other current assets 11,618 10,029 Property, plant and equipment, net 5,336 5,696 Operating lease right-of-use-assets 11,602 - Intangible assets, net 87,468 88,914 Deposits and other assets 3,426 3,416 Total assets $ 458,717 $ 365,261 Liabilities and stockholders' equity: Accounts payable $ 6,153 $ 12,068 Payable to Ionis Pharmaceuticals, Inc. - 18,901 Accrued compensation 6,300 8,583 Accrued liabilities 17,255 14,787 Current portion of deferred revenue 21,539 25,354 Other current liabilities 1,863 968 Long-term portion of lease liabilities 15,018 4,442 Long-term portion of deferred revenue 1,725 3,434 Stockholders' equity 388,864 276,724 Total liabilities and stockholders' equity $ 458,717 $ 365,261 Here's the autonomous robot Ford built. It's one of the company's newest employees at a factory in Spain The Ford Motor manufacturing plant in Valencia has a new delivery employee an autonomous robot named "Survival." The self-driving robot uses lidar (light detection and ranging) technology to visualize its surroundings and deliver spare parts. The robot made its debut at Ford as workers around the world become increasingly worried their jobs will one day be stolen by technology. The Ford Motor F manufacturing plant in Valencia, Spain, has a new delivery employee an autonomous robot named "Survival." The self-driving robot uses lidar (light detection and ranging) technology to visualize its surroundings and deliver spare parts to where they're needed in the facility. It was manufactured by Ford engineers and is the first of its kind to be used at one of the company's European plants. Ford said Survival gives employees more time to undertake more complex tasks. "When it first started you could see employees thinking they were in some kind of sci-fi movie, stopping and staring at it as it went by," Eduardo Garcia Magraner, manufacturing manager at the Valencia factory, said in a statement. "Now they just get on with their jobs knowing the robot is smart enough to work around them." The robot made its debut as workers around the world become increasingly worried their jobs will one day be stolen by technology. Nearly half of the world's jobs face some risk of being automated, according to research by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development. A Brookings Institution report warns that a quarter of Americans are at high risk of losing their jobs to automation. Workers in food services, manufacturing, administrative support, farming, transportation and construction have the greatest likelihood of being replaced by robots. In 2018, a record number of robots were put to work in North America. According to the Robotic Industries Association, 35,880 robots were shipped to the U.S., Canada and Mexico last year, with 53% going to the automotive industry. Story continues Ford said workers at the Valencia plant don't need to fear Survival taking their job. The company said delivering spare parts to different areas of the plant is "time consuming and relatively mundane," adding that Survival saves up to 40 working hours for employees and does not replace anyone on the job. More From CNBC Iranian President Hassan Rouhani announced Wednesday his country would end its compliance with two particular conditions of the nuclear deal if Europe did not step in to protect the country from U.S. sanctions. Rouhani essentially gave Europe an ultimatum: Choose Iran over the U.S. by resuming Iranian trade in violation of sanctions, or see Iran return to higher levels of uranium enrichment. The EU has responded firmly to Iran's threat to roll back its 2015 nuclear deal commitments , saying in a statement Thursday that it rejects any ultimatums but remained committed to the multilateral pact. "We reject any ultimatums and will assess Iran's compliance on the basis of Iran's performance regarding its nuclear-related commitments under the JCPOA and the NPT," the joint statement from the EU high representative and the foreign ministers of France, Germany and the U.K. read, referring to the deal itself the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action and the Treaty on the Nonproliferation of Weapons, respectively. In essence, the EU is saying that inspectors, not declarations, will determine how it approaches Iran going forward. And that may take some time: Data on Iran's nuclear activities will be unclear until the International Atomic Energy Agency publishes its quarterly report in August. Iran's nuclear deal ultimatum Iranian President Hassan Rouhani announced Wednesday his country would end its compliance with two particular conditions of the nuclear deal if Europe did not step in to protect the country from U.S. sanctions, re-imposed after the President Donald Trump administration withdrew from the agreement one year ago. Rouhani essentially gave Europe an ultimatum: Choose Iran over the U.S. by resuming Iranian trade in violation of sanctions, or see Iran return to higher levels of uranium enrichment. Tehran said it would restart construction on its Arak nuclear reactor, which was capable of producing weapons-grade plutonium and had been shut down as part of the 2015 deal. Story continues "We remain fully committed to the preservation and full implementation of the JCPOA, a key achievement of the global nuclear non-proliferation architecture, which is in the security interest of all," the EU statement read. "We strongly urge Iran to continue to implement its commitments under the JCPOA in full as it has done until now and to refrain from any escalatory steps." The JCPOA, signed under the Obama administration, saw financial sanctions on Iran lifted in exchange for curbs to its nuclear program. It has since last year been on life support as European, Russian and Chinese signatories endeavor to save it and get around U.S. sanctions. Iran's economy has severely contracted, and Wednesday's announcement was a signal of Tehran's waning patience for Europe finding a solution. European signatories to the deal in January launched INSTEX, a special purpose vehicle designed to enable trade with Iran by using currencies other than dollars, sidestepping U.S. sanctions. The mechanism has so far had limited success, but is a sign of Europe's determination to defy the Trump administration's efforts. If Iran breaks its obligations under the deal, however, the EU ministers' statements suggest that those efforts will end and multilateral sanctions may be re-imposed. "We also look to Iran to continue to adhere to established JCPOA formats and mechanisms including the JCPOA Joint Commission," the statement read. EU foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini expressed her personal concerns on the announcements. "We remain fully committed to the full implementation of the JCPOA nuclear deal, it is a matter of security for us and for the entire world," she told CNBC's Willem Marx in Sibiu, Romania. "So far we have seen Iran fully compliant with all its nuclear-related commitments under the nuclear deal ... We will continue to see the compliance of Iran to its commitments to the JCPOA through the lenses of the EEAS (European External Action Service)," she added. CNBC's Silvia Amaro contributed to this article. More From CNBC (Bloomberg) -- Genetic-testing startups are finding that selling consumers insights on their risk of getting cancer may not be as easy as telling them about their Irish roots. 23andMe Inc. and Ancestry.com LLC have capitalized on the publics insatiable appetite for discovering their family trees. However, consumers have balked at paying other companies for health analysis of their DNA. Some testing firms are finding it works better when health-care providers are more directly involved. That way patients are better able to understand test results and integrate them into their care. Helix, which launched in 2015 with $100 million from genome-sequencing giant Illumina Inc., had planned to sell tests directly through an app store for DNA. Instead, its now looking to partner with health-care providers. Illumina said on April 25 that it would no longer hold equity or participate on Helixs board, ending the partnership. Color Genomics has also changed course. It began by offering doctor-prescribed tests to consumers, but in January it said it would shift focus to partnerships that incorporate genetic testing into primary care for large numbers of patients. And recently 23andMe has drawn criticism for cancer tests that critics say can mislead consumers without a professionals input. It works really, really well when your partner can directly provide the follow-on care that people need, because thats what people are looking for, said Justin Kao, a co-founder of Helix and senior vice president of business development and partnerships. They want to know how to take their information and take action on it. That caused us to rethink some things. When Helix rolled out its app store in 2017, the idea was that customers would pay Helix to sequence their DNA. They would then purchase DNA apps from other companies selling products on the Helix platform, depending on whether they were curious about ancestry or health, or perhaps in the market for custom socks printed with their own genetic code. In addition to Illumina, investors included the venture capital firms Kleiner Perkins, Warburg Pincus and DFJ Growth. Story continues Changing Course But now Helix is shifting gears. It deemed a partnership last year with the Healthy Nevada Project to sequence DNA of state residents so successful that it announced a similar deal with AdventHealth in Florida last month. In both arrangements, Helix sequences DNA and screens for specific genetic conditions, then passes that information along to its health-care partners, which follow up with patients. For Helix, the arrangements give it access to large pools of customers in one fell swoop. Color Genomics has also moved toward selling its services to companies that offer health care to large numbers of people. In January, it inked a deal with NorthShore University HealthSystem in the Chicago area to offer its kits to more than 10,000 patients. It also sells its services to several employers, which offer DNA testing as a benefit alongside insurance. Color, which requires a doctors prescription and has always offered genetic counseling alongside test results, said the shift has been mostly about reaching larger numbers of patients in order to make precision medicine widely available. At the same time, it stopped its focus on recruiting individual patients to order tests through its website. The economics work more as part of care delivery, said Chief Executive Officer Othman Laraki. Recently, 23andMe has demonstrated the peril of offering nuanced and complicated health information directly to consumers. Critics argue that its tests for breast cancer could mislead people about their health. Because 23andMe tests only for a few of the many harmful genetic mutations to the BRCA genes associated with breast-cancer risk, one recent study by a competitor found nearly 90 percent of participants who carried a BRCA mutation would have been missed by 23andMes test. 23andMe said it makes clear to customers that it tests for only three of thousands of possible genetic variants, ones that have a documented risk for breast and ovarian cancer. The company said it also urges customers not to forgo additional testing. Helix said its consumer marketplace wont totally disappear. But for now, the focus is on partnering with providers, with more deals in the works, Kao said. As a startup, I think you have to you have to react when you hit on something, said Kao. No health system is going to sit there and become a genetics expert. Thats not their job. And we said we think we have something there. Stephen Montgomery, a geneticist at Stanford University who criticized Helix when it launched, said the pivot seemed like a good idea. For most people, he said, the health information delivered by consumer genomics companies just doesnt seem that useful. The biggest DNA testing company, Ancestry, doesnt offer health testing at all. Its not precise enough to be able to be actionable for most people, said Montgomery. The best way to deliver that information to people is partnership with clinicians who know how to use it. To contact the reporter on this story: Kristen V. Brown in San Francisco at kbrown340@bloomberg.net To contact the editors responsible for this story: Drew Armstrong at darmstrong17@bloomberg.net, Mark Schoifet, Timothy Annett For more articles like this, please visit us at bloomberg.com 2019 Bloomberg L.P. VANCOUVER, British Columbia, May 08, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Asanko Gold Inc. (Asanko or the Company) (TSX, NYSE American: AKG) reports first quarter (Q1) 2019 operating and financial results for the Asanko Gold Mine (AGM), located in Ghana, West Africa. The AGM is a 50:50 joint venture (JV) with Gold Fields Ltd (JSE, NYSE: GFI), which is managed and operated by Asanko. All amounts are in US dollars unless otherwise stated. Q1 2019 Asanko Gold Mine Highlights (100% basis) Produced 60,425 ounces of gold, on track to meet 2019 guidance of 225,000 245,000 ounces Generated EBITDA 1 of $10.1 million and operating cash flows before working capital changes of $10.5 million Held unaudited cash of $16.3 million on hand, $7.1 million in receivables from gold sales and $7.1 million in gold on hand, as at March 31, 2019 All-in sustaining cost (AISC) 1 of $1,123/oz, with 2019 guidance of $1,040 $1,060/oz maintained Net loss after tax of $14.1 million including a loss of $13.3 million associated with adjustments to the carrying value of ore stockpile inventory Q1 2019 Quarterly Consolidated Financials for Asanko Gold Inc. Net loss of $5.3 million including proportional adjustment to net realizable value of the ore stockpiles at the AGM of $6.0 million Adjusted EBITDA 1 of $3.1 million Held $8.8 million in cash as of March 31, 2019, with the final $20 million cash payment related to the Gold Fields transaction expected no later than December 31, 2019 Commenting on the Q1 2019 performance, Greg McCunn, Chief Executive Officer, said: The Asanko Gold Mine delivered a solid operational performance producing 60,425 ounces, in line with our guidance for 2019. Costs for the quarter were impacted by higher trucking costs as we initiated mining operations at the large scale Esaase deposit. Commercial trucking contracts are now in place and we expect oxide ore from Esaase to represent 25-30% of the mill feed on an ongoing basis. In addition, we continued with the waste stripping of Cut 2 at Nkran. This is nearing completion and as the pushback comes to a conclusion in Q3, we forecast AISC to decline and maintain our full-year AISC guidance of $1,040 $1,060/oz. Story continues After a thorough review of our current operations in my first month as CEO, I can see that we are in the final stages of a two year capital investment program, which included a mill expansion from 3Mtpa to 5Mtpa, a major pushback of the Nkran pit and the initial development of Esaase. We are now well positioned to start harvesting the benefits of these major investments as we shift our focus to maximizing cashflow generation from the AGM over the next 18-24 months while we work with our JV partner on formulating the long-term development plan for Esaase and optimal life of mine plan for the AGM complex. Summary of Q1 2019 Asanko Gold Mine Operational and Financial Results AGM (100% Basis) Q1 2018 Q4 2018 Q1 2019 Waste mined (000t) 11,976 8,370 6,584 Ore mined (000t) 853 1,370 1,505 Strip ratio (W:O) 15.7 6.1 4.4 Average gold grade mined (g/t) 1.3 1.5 1.4 Mining costs ($/t mined) 3.23 4.13 4.48 Ore treated (000t) 1,269 1,238 1,224 Gold feed grade (g/t) 1.3 1.6 1.6 Gold recovery (%) 93 95 93 Processing costs ($/t treated) 11.17 12.39 11.93 Gold production (oz) 48,229 59,823 60,425 Gold sales (oz) 48,899 61,821 53,421 Average realized gold price ($/oz) 1,314 1,215 1,292 Operating cash costs1 ($/oz) 571 811 878 Total cash costs1 ($/oz) 637 872 943 All-in sustaining costs1 ($/oz) 1,226 1,072 1,123 All-in sustaining margin1 ($/oz) 88 143 169 All-in sustaining margin1 ($m) 4.3 8.8 9.0 Revenue ($m) 64.4 74.2 67.0 Income (loss) from mine operations ($m) 19.5 (0.8) (11.9) Net income (loss) after tax ($m) 4.7 (3.1) (14.1) EBITDA1 32.3 17.4 10.1 Cash provided by operating activities 20.1 12.9 8.8 Key Operational Highlights of the AGM (on a 100% basis) No lost time injuries (LTI) were reported during the quarter, and the AGM has now achieved over 24 months and more than 12.3 million employee hours worked without a single LTI. Waste stripping of the Cut 2 pushback at Nkran advancing towards final stages, expected to be complete in Q3 2019. Achieved steady state levels of production at Esaase in February 2019, with ore mining rates averaging 147,500 tonnes per month over February and March at an average grade of 1.3 g/t. Trucking costs for the quarter were elevated as contractors at Esaase transitioned from road construction activities to ore haulage activities. Effective April 1, 2019, commercial contracts in place and ore haulage costs expected to reduce to planned levels of $7.00-$7.50 per tonne hauled. Notice of the JVs intention to halt mining activities at Akwasiso was initiated during the quarter. JV Financial Performance The AGM incurred operating cash costs per ounce 1 of $878, total cash costs per ounce 1 of $943 and AISC 1 of $1,123 in Q1 2019. These costs include a $248/oz impact associated with adjustments to the carrying value of ore stockpile inventory and a $32/oz impact due to the Ghanaian Governments 5% non-refundable levy on certain goods and services. Cash costs were higher in Q1 2019, compared to Q1 2018, partly due to fewer waste tonnes being capitalized to stripping costs. During the quarter, only $2.9 million of stripping costs were deferred compared to Q1 2018 when the Eastern portion of Cut 2 at Nkran was underway, which resulted in $26.1 million of stripping costs being deferred and excluded from cash costs. Cash costs for the quarter were also impacted by unusually high trucking rates at Esaase as contractors were transitioning from road construction activities to ore haulage activities. These factors were partially offset by higher gold sales volumes which decreased fixed production costs on a per unit basis. AlSC for Q1 2019 were lower compared to Asankos AISC for Q1 2018 predominantly due to a $479/oz reduction in capitalized stripping costs, associated with the Eastern portion of Cut 2 at Nkran, and higher gold sales volumes which decreased fixed costs on a per unit basis, partly offset by the previously described higher cash costs. While there are no comparative AISC metrics reported for the AGM on a standalone basis in Q1 2018, Asankos AISC for Q1 2018 included corporate G&A costs of $33/oz. Q1 2019 gold sales of 53,421 ounces at an average realized gold price of $1,292/oz generating gold sales of $69.0 millon. Gold sales were impacted by a change in the reporting period, which shortened the quarter to 83 days instead of the normal 90 days. This is a once-off timing adjustment. Revenue in Q1 2019 amounted to $67.0 million and includes by-product sales of $0.2 million and is reported net of $2.2 million of gold sales that were capitalized in relation to Esaase pre-production activities in January 2019. Total cost of sales (including depreciation and depletion and royalties) amounted to $78.9 million, an increase of $34.0 million from Q1 2018. The increase in production costs was primarily driven by an adjustment to the carrying value of the AGMs stockpile inventory to reflect the net realizable value of stockpiled ore, a one-time contract termination fee relating to one of the JVs mining contractors, the introduction of ore trucking from Esaase to the processing facility, as well as higher gold ounces sold. Additionally, depreciation and depletion during Q1 2019 accounted for $10.1 million of the increase in cost of sales, compared to Q1 2018, primarily due to the depletion of mineral interests related to Esaase, which commenced commercial operations in February 2019, while depreciation of right-of-use assets commenced in Q1 2019 following the capitalization of mining contractor leases in accordance with IFRS 16 Leases. Generated cash flow from operations of $8.8 million and $10.5 milion before working capital changes. The JV generated EBITDA 1 of $10.1 million in Q1 2019. The AGMs net loss after tax for the quarter amounted to $14.1 million, compared to net income of $4.7 million in Q1 2018. The reduction in net income was due mainly to lower mine operating earnings in Q1 2019 as discussed above, partially offset by a reduction in deferred income tax expense and interest expense, the latter resulting from the settlement of the Red Kite debt in July 2018. At quarter end, the JV had unaudited cash of $16.3 million on hand, $7.1 million in receivables from gold sales and $7.1 million in gold on hand. Asanko Gold Inc. Summary Q1 2019 Financial Results Consolidated Q1 2018 Q4 2018 Q1 2019 Net income (loss) attributable to common shareholders ($m) 2.1 (0.9) (5.3) Net income (loss) per share attributable to common shareholders $0.01 ($0.00) ($0.02) Adjusted EBITDA1 ($m) 30.9 6.1 3.1 The Company reported a net loss of $5.3 million in Q1 2019 compared to net income attributable to common shareholders of $2.1 million in Q1 2018. The reduction in net income for Q1 2019 was predominantly the result of the reduction in mine operating earnings of the AGM, resulting in the JV reporting a net loss of $14.1 million, of which the Company recognized its share of $6.4 million. This was partly offset by the recognition of $1.1 million in service fees (net of withholding tax) earned as operators of the JV and $2.4 million of finance income relating to the fair value adjustment of the Companys preferred share investments in the JV. Reported Adjusted EBITDA1 of $3.1 million for Q1 2019 compared to $30.9 million in Q1 2018. The decrease in Adjusted EBITDA1 was primarily a result of the higher cash costs incurred by the AGM, as well as a reduction in the Companys interest in the AGM from 100% to 45%. These factors were partly offset by an increase in the AGMs revenue. 2019 Outlook The Asanko Gold Mine is on track to meet 2019 guidance of 225,000 245,000 ounces at AISC1 of $1,040 $1,060/oz. Since the announcement of the JV transaction, Asankos technical team, together with input from Gold Fields, have been reviewing the current Life of Mine plan. This includes a number of scenarios for the long-term development of the Esaase deposit, utilizing knowledge gained from the recent initiation of minining operations, as well as the exploration potential of the AGMs land package, particularly the highly prospective South Camp tenements. The JV partners are currently considering an optimal work plan and timing required to deliver an updated Life of Mine plan for the AGM and expect to update the market further in H2 2019. This news release should be read in conjunction with Asankos Managements Discussion and Analysis and the Condensed Consolidated Interim Financial Statements for the three months ended March 31, 2019, which are available at www.asanko.com and filed on SEDAR. Notes: 1 Non-GAAP Performance Measures The Company has included certain non-GAAP performance measures in this press release. These non-GAAP performance measures do not have any standardized meaning. Accordingly, these performance measures are intended to provide additional information and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures of performance prepared in accordance with GAAP. Refer to the Non-GAAP Measures section of Asankos Management Discussion and Analysis for an explanation of these measures and reconciliations to the Companys reported financial results in accordance with IFRS. Operating Cash Costs per ounce and Total Cash Costs per ounce Operating cash costs are reflective of the cost of production, adjusted for share-based payments and by-product revenue per ounce of gold sold. Total cash costs include production royalties of 5%. All-in Sustaining Costs Per Gold Ounce The Company has adopted the reporting of all-in sustaining costs per gold ounce (AISC) as per the World Gold Councils guidance. AISC include total cash costs, corporate overhead expenses, sustaining capital expenditure, capitalized stripping costs and reclamation cost accretion per ounce of gold sold. Adjusted net income attributable to common shareholders The Company has included the non-GAAP performance measures of adjusted net income (loss) attributable to common shareholders and adjusted net income (loss) per common share. Neither adjusted net income nor adjusted net income per share have any standardized meaning and are therefore unlikely to be comparable to other measures presented by other issuers. Adjusted net income excludes certain non-cash items from net income or net loss to provide a measure which helps the Company and investors to evaluate the results of the underlying core operations of the Company and its ability to generate cash flows and is an important indicator of the strength of our operations and the performance of our core business. Adjusted EBITDA EBITDA provides an indication of the Companys continuing capacity to generate income from operations before taking into account the Companys financing decisions and costs of amortizing capital assets. Accordingly, EBITDA comprises net income (loss) excluding interest expense, interest income, amortization and depletion, and income taxes. Adjusted EBITDA adjusts EBITDA to exclude non-recurring items and to include the Companys interest in the adjusted EBITDA of the JV. Other companies and JV partners may calculate EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA differently. Qualified Person Statement Frederik Fourie (Pr.Eng), Asanko Senior Mining Engineer, is the Asanko Qualified Person, as defined by Canadian National Instrument 43-101 (Standards of Mineral Disclosure), who has approved the preparation of the technical contents of this news release. About Asanko Gold Inc. Asankos flagship project, located in Ghana, West Africa, is the jointly owned Asanko Gold Mine with Gold Fields Ltd, which Asanko manages and operates. The Company is strongly committed to the highest standards for environmental management, social responsibility, and health and safety for its employees and neighbouring communities. For more information, please visit www.asanko.com . Forward-Looking and other Cautionary Information This release includes certain statements that may be deemed "forward-looking statements". All statements in this release, other than statements of historical facts, that address estimated resource quantities, grades and contained metals, possible future mining, exploration and development activities, are forward-looking statements. Although the Company believes the forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements should not be in any way construed as guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include market prices for metals, the conclusions of detailed feasibility and technical analyses, the timely renewal of key permits, lower than expected grades and quantities of resources, mining rates and recovery rates and the lack of availability of necessary capital, which may not be available to the Company on terms acceptable to it or at all. The Company is subject to the specific risks inherent in the mining business as well as general economic and business conditions. For more information, investors should review the Company's Annual Form 40-F filing with the United States Securities Commission and its home jurisdiction filings that are available at www.sedar.com . Neither Toronto Stock Exchange nor the Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Cautionary Note to US Investors Regarding Mineral Reporting Standards: Asanko has prepared its disclosure in accordance with the requirements of securities laws in effect in Canada, which differ from the requirements of US securities laws. Terms relating to mineral resources in this press release are defined in accordance with National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects under the guidelines set out in the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy, and Petroleum (the CIM Council) Standards on Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves (the CIM Definition Standards). The Securities and Exchange Commission (the SEC) has adopted amendments to its disclosure rules to modernize the mineral property disclosure requirements for issuers whose securities are registered with the SEC. As a result of the adoption of the SEC Modernization Rules, SEC will now recognize estimates of measured mineral resources, indicated mineral resources and inferred mineral resources that are substantially similar to the corresponding terms under the CIM Definition Standards. In addition, the SEC has amended its definitions of proven mineral reserves and probably mineral reserves to be substantially similar to the corresponding CIM Definitions. United States investors are cautioned that while the above terms are substantially similar to CIM Definitions, there is no assurance any mineral reserves or mineral resources that the Company may report as proven reserves, probable reserves, measured mineral resources, indicated mineral resources and inferred mineral resources under NI 43-101 would be the same had the Company prepared the reserve or resource estimates under the standards adopted under the SEC Modernization Rules. Enquiries: Alex Buck Investor & Media Relations Toll-Free (N.America): 1-855-246-7341 Telephone: +44 7932 740 452 Email: alex.buck@asanko.com FILE PHOTO: A woman looks at her phone as she walks past an advertisement for Australia's TPG Telecom Ltd in central Sydney, Australia, April 12, 2017. REUTERS/Steven Saphore By Byron Kaye and Paulina Duran SYDNEY (Reuters) - Australian internet firm TPG Telecom Ltd's best bet to recover from the serious blow dealt by regulators who blocked its $10 billion merger bid with a rival lies with the courts, with analysts doubting any alternative plans can succeed. The nation's anti-trust regulator blocked the A$15 billion ($10 billion) merger of TPG and a local venture of Britain's Vodafone Group Plc on Wednesday citing competition concerns, sending TPG's shares tumbling as investors worried about its future growth. TPG and the Vodafone venture said they will challenge the decision of the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) in federal court and gave themselves time until end-August next year to complete the deal. Analysts and investors, including TPG's second-largest shareholder, said a court victory was more likely to resuscitate the company's fortunes than if it were to tap alternatives like reviving plans for its own A$1.4 billion mobile phone network that it scrapped in January. Robert Millner, chairman of investment company Washington H Soul Pattinson and Co Ltd which owns a quarter of TPG, said the company was counting on a court victory and had no plans to revisit building a mobile network. "We just don't have the financial capabilities to do that. We are stretched to the limit in our borrowings," he said in a telephone interview on Thursday. Though the ACCC first raised antitrust concerns about the mega-deal in December, investors and analysts were surprised when the regulator blocked it on grounds that it may impede competition in the future. Since TPG is a fiber internet company and Vodafone mainly sells mobile phone services, investors believed the companies had shown they were sufficiently different to be allowed to merge. Their confidence appeared to be boosted in January when TPG scrapped plans for its own mobile phone network, citing an Australian government ban on the controversial Chinese parts supplier it had contracted, Huawei. The ACCC ruling noted TPG's exit from the mobile phone market but said the company had "the capability and commercial incentive to resolve the technical and commercial challenges it is facing". Story continues Competition lawyers and analysts said the companies might succeed in court. "TPG doesn't currently compete, and the ACCC's theory that absent the merger they would be likely to enter and compete aggressively, that is a difficult hurdle," said Elizabeth Avery, a partner at law firm Gilbert & Tobin's antitrust group who is not involved in the case. Credit Suisse analysts said the companies' prospects "will likely be better in the Federal Court ... however any favorable outcome for TPG remains uncertain, with potential for the court process to drag on over the next 12 months". ACCC Commissioner Rod Sims told the Australian Broadcasting Corp the government body "always understood the prospect of court action ... and we believe we've got a very strong case to put". PLAN B Options that TPG has include resuming the rollout of the network at a higher cost, pursuing a joint venture with Vodafone rather than joining the companies, or selling A$1.1 billion of mobile spectrum it previously bought to a competitor, possibly Vodafone. "TPG could also shift its focus to Singapore and to try and become a significant player in the SG mobile market (where) it could be more competitive," Bank of America Merrill Lynch analysts wrote in a note. JPMorgan suggested TPG could re-visit plans to build a mobile phone network with another parts supplier and go after the customers of the No. 1 and No. 2 players, Telstra Corp Ltd and Singapore Telecommunication's Optus. Rival parts suppliers Nokia and Ericsson, which analysts have said are more expensive than Huawei, declined to comment. "The court's decision will likely determine TPM's fate as a business as we don't see many other favourable options for the company if the court rules in ACCC's favour," JPMorgan analysts said in a note. Shares of TPG closed flat on Thursday, after falling to a five-month low the previous day and losing 13.5 percent, a sign investors remained uncertain about the outcome. (Reporting by Byron Kaye, Paulina Duran and Tom Westbrook; Editing by Muralikumar Anantharaman) All amounts expressed in US dollars unless otherwise indicated TORONTO, May 08, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Barrick Gold Corporations (Barricks) first quarterly results since its merger with Randgold Resources Limited (Randgold) show solid results across the board from the new group, which also reported rapid progress with the integration of the two businesses as well as with the implementation of key strategic initiatives. Financial and Operating Highlights Financial Results Q1 2019 Q4 2018 Q1 2018 Realized gold price2,3 ($ per ounce) 1,307 1,223 1,332 Net earnings (loss) ($ millions) 111 (1,197 ) 158 Adjusted net earnings1 ($ millions) 184 69 170 Net cash provided by operating activities ($ millions) 520 411 507 Free cash flow4 ($ millions) 146 37 181 Net earnings (loss) per share ($) 0.06 (1.02 ) 0.14 Adjusted net earnings per share1 ($) 0.11 0.06 0.15 Total Attributable Capital Expenditures5 ($ millions) 361 368 320 Operating Results Q1 2019 Q4 2018 Q1 2018 Gold Production (000s of ounces) 1,367 1,262 1,049 Cost of sales6 (Barrick's share) ($ per ounce) 947 980 878 Total cash costs7 ($ per ounce) 631 588 573 All-in sustaining costs7 ($ per ounce) 825 788 804 Copper Production (millions of pounds) 106 109 85 Cost of sales6 (Barrick's share) ($ per pound) 2.21 2.85 2.07 C1 cash costs8 ($ per pound) 1.66 1.98 1.88 All-in sustaining costs8 ($ per pound) 2.46 2.95 2.61 Key Performance Indicators Integration and strategic initiatives on track across the group following Barrick-Randgold merger Nevada Joint Venture agreement signed and implementation expected by second quarter-end Group gold production up 8% quarter on quarter and in line with guidance Net cash provided by operating activities up 27% quarter on quarter Net earnings per share increases 106% quarter on quarter to $0.06 Adjusted net earnings per share 1 up 83% quarter on quarter to $0.11 Copper operations deliver significant improvements Debt, net of cash down 12% quarter on quarter to $3.65 billion Nevada performs ahead of plan as the Cortez Hills open pit ramps down Veladero posts encouraging operational improvements Pueblo Viejo makes progress with expansion project and benefits from operational efficiencies African operations perform well as Kibali makes a good start to the year Sustainability core to group as team effectiveness workshops are rolled out Greenfields and brownfields exploration make good progress Key growth projects on track Barrick declares $0.04 quarterly dividend per share, up from Q1 2018 While quarter on quarter comparisons are skewed by the merger, group gold production was up 8% in line with guidance, net cash from the operations rose by 27%, net earnings per share increased by 106% to $0.06, adjusted net earnings per share1 increased by 83% to $0.11, and debt, net of cash was down 12% to $3.65 billion. A dividend of $0.04 per share was declared in respect of the first quarter of 2019. Story continues President and Chief Executive Officer Mark Bristow said the key operations had all performed on plan and within guidance. Nevada exceeded plan as the Cortez Hills open pit ramps down, Veladero posted encouraging improvements and Pueblo Viejo progressed its expansion project and benefited from operational efficiencies. Led by Kibali, the African operations made a good start to the year and the copper operations delivered significant improvements. Key growth projects were on track and greenfields and brownfields exploration were augmenting reserves and identifying new opportunities. We have gone a long way towards integrating the organizations, streamlining the processes and ensuring that all the sites have the geological, operational and technical capability to meet their business objectives, Bristow said. Were also well advanced in establishing our new joint venture with Newmont, which has been named Nevada Gold Mines. The organizational structures are being finalized and were working together with Newmont to realize the synergies and cost reduction opportunities offered by the joint venture, which is scheduled for completion by the end of the second quarter. Bristow said the assets that did not pass Barricks strategic filters had been identified and once optimized would be brought to account in a way that would recognize the importance to the remaining stakeholders with the objective of being well advanced by mid-2020. Management was also dealing with some legacy challenges, including the long stand-off between Acacia and the Tanzanian government. Given our solid operational performance for the first quarter, Barrick is on track to deliver against its plans for the year. Considering the shortage of good assets and the industry's underinvestment in its own future we believe we are well positioned as the industry's value leader. Barrick stands apart from the rest of the industry on four counts: the quality of our assets; our significant potential for portfolio optimization; the very real synergies that we expect to be delivered by Nevada Gold Mines; and our superior exploration and pipeline of development efforts, Bristow said. This quarter has seen a great start for our first year as the 'new and improved' Barrick and I am confident that we are well on the way to achieving our strategic objective of becoming the worlds most valued gold mining business. It is our commitment to get there by finding, developing, owning and operating the best assets in our industry, with the best people, to deliver stand out returns for our owners and partners. Conference Call and Webcast Please join us for a conference call and webcast today at 11:00 EDT/16:00 BST to discuss the results. US and Canada, 1-800-319-4610 UK, 0808 101 2791 International, +1 416 915-3239 Webcast The event will be available for replay online or by telephone at 1-855-669-9658 (US and Canada) and +1 604 674-8052 (international), access code 3107. Q1 DELIVERS A NEW BARRICK MADE FIT FOR PURPOSE Since Barrick and Randgold were formally united on the first working day of this year, new management has moved swiftly to engineer a business capable of achieving its creators vision of being the worlds most valued gold company. The process started well before the deal was consummated, with teams from both sides sitting down together to define new Barricks goals and plot the best routes to achieving them. They emerged from these meetings with a clear strategy and action plans, as well as a shared vision of a business with a leaner management structure and a more agile, flexible management style. Getting the right people in the right places was our first priority, says President and Chief Executive Officer Mark Bristow. We started with a new executive leadership team of people with the right skills and attitude at the corporate level. Supported by a slimmed down technical, financial, commercial, communication and administration team, they now exercise full oversight of all the operations. This process was duplicated in each of Barricks three geographical regions, where senior executive teams have been installed, in line with a new policy of moving people, skills and decision-making out of the corporate office and into the operations. To make sure everyone is focused on the new expected outcomes and their responsibilities, we have held strategy reviews and team effectiveness exercises throughout the organization, Bristow says. Weve also made sure that each site has the geological, operational and technical abilities to meet our business objectives and have introduced the Randgold system of parallel workstreams that are integrated horizontally for optimal efficiency. At the same time, we are upgrading and integrating the digital and information systems throughout the organization to provide managers with real-time data for planning and decision-making. The corporate structure has been streamlined with the Toronto office now occupying a single floor with approximately 70 people. The process of refining and rationalizing the structure of the business is continuing at the site offices. Its important to note that this is not a cost-cutting exercise. Its been designed to ensure that the best people are in the right places, Bristow says. With Barrick now looking and acting like the modern gold business we envisaged, the merger is delivering all that we expected from it. With our house in order, we can now start looking at the abundance of opportunities that are within our grasp. Nevada is the base of Barricks business and its wealth of possibilities will be expanded by the creation of the joint venture there with Newmont Goldcorp. But Barrick is also looking at other prospects to the north and into Canada, Bristow said. Africa is a high-risk, high-reward destination which holds two of Barricks Tier One9 gold mines Kibali and Loulo-Gounkoto and the promise of more to come, but those assets which do not fit the portfolio profile are likely to be divested. The most exciting growth opportunities are in Latin America, where the expansion of Pueblo Viejo is expected to maintain the mines Tier One status for years to come. There is also the potential to work on adding life and lifting efficiencies at Veladero as well as rebuilding our exploration capabilities across Chile, Argentina and Peru as we address some of the significant legacy challenges we face. And then there is Porgera in Papua New Guinea where we are in the process of renewing the mining license and which offers Tier One potential. The new Barrick is off to a strong start but there is a long road ahead of us and much still to be done to achieve our goal of becoming the most valued gold company by having the best people, employing the best skills, systems and structures, to extract sustainable returns for our owners and partners from the best assets, Bristow says. STRONG NEW SUSTAINABILITY DRIVE Sustainability, a core component of the management philosophy of both Barrick and Randgold, has been given an even higher priority by the merged business. One of the first appointments post-merger was that of Grant Beringer in the new position of Group Sustainability Executive. At the same time an Environmental, Social and Health and Safety Oversight Committee (chaired by the President and CEO) was established to monitor, review and update sustainability policies and practices throughout the organization. The energetic new sustainability team has embarked on an extensive stakeholder engagement exercise designed to understand the issues and devise mutually-acceptable solutions. Site-level leadership has been involved in this process and sustainability is now a key reporting line on Barricks weekly Executive Committee call as well as a dedicated agenda item at the monthly management and quarterly Board meetings. At the heart of Barricks sustainability vision is a commitment to contribute to the social and economic development of our host countries and communities. Last year, the combined organization generated more than $8.2 billion in economic value across 16 countries through payments to governments, employees and suppliers, and through community investments, Beringer says. While the two companies achieved much, we acknowledge that Barrick still faces significant legacy issues relating to community and tailings disposal issues at Porgera, litigation and environmental challenges relating to Pascua-Lama and a checkered environmental past at Veladero, but we are exploring all options to manage and mitigate these risks. Adds President and Chief Executive Officer Mark Bristow: We are pledged to deliver long-term benefits to our host countries and communities through open and ongoing stakeholder engagement and a commitment to genuine partnership. GEOLOGY: MININGS BEDROCK Geology is the starting point of all mining ventures, argues Barrick Mineral Resource Management and Evaluation Executive, Rod Quick; and it also plays an integral part at every stage of a projects life, from discovery through evaluation and development to mine design and operation. While Barrick was focused on driving down debt, its business model was focused on free cash flow. With the debt situation now stabilized, that model is now driven by the optimal exploitation of the orebodies. This shift in strategy has been signaled by the appointment of mineral resource managers at all the mines. It all starts with an understanding of the mineralization controls of each orebody and using this information in the geological modelling to project the grade, geometry and geotechnical characteristics of the orebody. After all, this is our revenue base, and it is essential that we know it well, he says. Using this knowledge, the geologists can work with their mining and metallurgical colleagues to develop a mining plan that will extract the ore with minimum dilution and process it with the smallest possible recovery loss. Mining is a consumptive industry, and replacing depleted ounces requires a deep understanding of the orebodies and the ability to replace the gold we mine through brownfield extensions and new discoveries. The new approach includes reconciliation programs between the orebody models and what we actually extract as well as operational and financial forecasts. There are also grade control programs, which allow geologists and mining engineers to model the geology, geotechnical and metallurgical characteristics ahead of the mining areas. This allows us to optimally design the ore extraction and develop reliable metallurgical models to optimize ore processing. Geology is not a discrete discipline. It needs to be integrated into a multi-skilled team making a contribution throughout the life of a mine, for that operation to be sustainably profitable, says Quick. EXPLORATION SUCCESSES BOOST INVENTORY Barricks exploration programs have two goals: to replace the gold it depletes by mining; and to discover its next Tier One9 mine. In Nevada the combination of the Fourmile discovery, which is expected to eventually be consolidated with the Goldrush project, is shaping up as the portfolios next mega-mine. Since the high-grade maiden resource was reported, widely-spaced drilling beyond the deposit footprint has intersected high grades in multiple directions, signaling significant growth potential. Drilling resumed in January and funding may be increased to continue scoping extensions. In the meantime, exploration and project teams are working together to maximize the value from a consolidated and optimized Fourmile-Goldrush. Fourmile and Goldrush are classic Carlin-style orebodies of the kind that has made this region one of the worlds most prospective. Another is Turquoise Ridge, adjacent to the Twin Creeks mine and included in the Nevada joint venture, which we anticipate is also on the way to becoming a Tier One9 asset. We feel strongly that Nevada still holds enormous potential for more major discoveries, says Rob Krcmarov, Executive Vice President, Exploration and Growth. Over in Africa, the extensions to the recently-discovered 11000 lode at Kibali, and the increasing continuity and confirmation of the down-plunge extensions to the geology and mineralization at Gorumbwa, is not only supporting Kibalis high production profile but is also expected to extend the life of the mine. Like Nevada, the Democratic Republic of Congo is mineral-rich but largely unexplored, and it too has a great potential for new mines. In addition to the gold-prolific West African Birimian and its counterpart, the Guyana Shield in Latin America along with our presence and growing exploration focus along the Andean trend in Chile, Argentina and Peru. Barrick and Randgold have a history of building shareholder value through discovery and development of world-class gold mines. The combination under Barrick brings two industry-leading exploration teams together and given our presence in some of the best gold belts in the world we are uniquely positioned to continue that legacy, says President and Chief Executive Officer Mark Bristow. KIBALI MAKES STRONG START TO 2019 Kibali, ranked among the worlds Top 10 gold mines, has made a strong start to 2019 after setting a new production record last year, says Barrick President and Chief Executive Officer Mark Bristow. Barrick operates Kibali, which is a joint venture with AngloGold Ashanti and the Congolese parastatal SOKIMO. Speaking at a briefing for local media and stakeholders, Bristow said Kibali was continuing to break records en route to its 2019 guidance of 750,000 ounces, the latest being the 285,000 tonnes of ore hoisted through the shaft in March. Throughput and recovery remained at or above nameplate levels and Kibali continued to add new technology to its autonomous mining operation, a field in which it is already an industry leader. With Kibali producing at this rate, we are intensifying our focus on reserve and resource replacement. Drilling is targeting the extensions of the KCD and Gorumbwa complex of orebodies, along the 30km gold bearing KZ structure, and the western extensions of the Kibali Graben. This has confirmed that there is a substantial potential for replenishing the reserve and resource base, Bristow said. Kibali is one of five Tier One9 gold mines in the Barrick stable and it is an outstanding example of Barricks commitment to partnerships. This is demonstrated by the constructive relationship between its three shareholders as well as by its continuing investment in the local economy. During the past quarter the mine spent $38 million with Congolese contractors and the recently-initiated Durba road upgrade project is being undertaken by 100% Congolese owned and operated contractors which Kibali developed. Bristow noted that, at their meeting in Washington DC earlier this month, the Congolese president, his excellency Felix Tshisekedi, and Barrick Executive Chairman John Thornton had confirmed their joint commitment to a partnership designed to develop the countrys gold mining industry. Follow-up meetings held in-country between President Felix Tshisekedi, Bristow and their respective executive teams focused on partnership initiatives and strategies to support the continued growth of the mining industry for the benefit of investors, the Congolese nation and other stakeholders. The DRC government is one of our most important partners and we look forward to working with them to create an economic climate capable of attracting large and long-term investments such as the one we made in Kibali. This requires a mining code which equitably balances the interests of the State and the capital providers and allows both to participate fairly in the value creation that the mining industry offers. We are and will continue to engage with the government and administration on the issues around the code introduced last year, he said. APPENDIX 1 2019 Operating and Capital Expenditure Guidance GOLD PRODUCTION AND COSTS Production Cost of sales Cash costs All-in sustaining costs (000s ounces) ($ per ounce) ($ per ounce) ($ per ounce) Cortez 850 - 920 810 - 850 530 - 580 750 - 800 Goldstrike10 900 - 980 1,020 - 1,080 740 - 790 950 - 990 Turquoise Ridge (75%) 270 - 310 655 - 705 550 - 600 680 - 730 Pueblo Viejo (60%) 550 - 600 780 - 830 465 - 510 610 - 650 Loulo-Gounkoto (80%) 520 - 570 880 - 930 575 - 625 810 - 850 Kibali (45%) 330 - 350 1,150 - 1,200 555 - 605 670 - 730 Kalgoorlie (50%) 280 - 300 920 - 970 740 - 790 920 - 960 Tongon (89.7%) 250 - 270 1,300 - 1,350 710 - 760 780 - 820 Porgera (47.5%) 240 - 260 980 - 1,030 800 - 850 985 - 1,025 Veladero (50%) 230 - 250 1,250 - 1,350 770 - 820 1,150 - 1,250 Hemlo 200 - 220 890 - 940 765 - 815 1,100 - 1,200 Acacia (63.9%) 320 - 350 920 - 970 665 - 710 860 - 920 Other Sites11 190 - 250 1,155 - 1,240 895 - 945 1,055 - 1,115 Total Gold12,13 5,100 - 5,600 910 - 970 650 - 700 870 - 920 COPPER PRODUCTION AND COSTS Production Cost of sales C1 cash costs All-in sustaining costs (millions of pounds) ($ per pound) ($ per pound) ($ per pound) Lumwana 210 - 240 2.25 - 2.50 1.80 - 2.10 2.75 - 3.15 Zaldivar (50%) 120 - 130 2.40 - 2.70 1.65 - 1.85 2.00 - 2.20 Jabal Sayid (50%) 45 - 60 2.00 - 2.30 1.60 - 1.90 1.60 - 1.90 Total Copper13 375 - 430 2.30 - 2.70 1.70 - 2.00 2.40 - 2.90 CAPITAL EXPENDITURES ($ millions) Mine site sustaining 1,100 - 1,300 Project 300 - 400 Total Attributable Capital Expenditures5 1,400 - 1,700 APPENDIX 2 2019 Outlook Assumptions and Economic Sensitivity Analysis14 2019 Guidance Assumption Hypothetical Change Impact on EBITDA (millions) Impact on AISC7,8 Gold revenue, net of royalties $1,250/oz +/- $100/oz +/- $385 +/- $2/oz Copper revenue, net of royalties $2.75/lb +/- $0.50/lb +/- $135 +/- $0.03/lb Gold all-in sustaining costs7 WTI crude oil price15 $65/bbl +/- $10/bbl +/- $30 +/- $6/oz Australian dollar exchange rate 0.75:1 +/- 10% +/- $19 +/- $4/oz Argentine peso exchange rate 46:1 +/- 10% +/- $5 +/- $1/oz Canadian dollar exchange rate 1.30:1 +/- 10% +/- $21 +/- $4/oz European euro exchange rate 1.15:1 +/- 10% +/- $2 +/- $0/oz Copper all-in sustaining costs8 WTI crude oil price $65/bbl +/- $10/bbl +/- $5 +/- $0.01/lb Chilean peso exchange rate 650:1 +/- 10% +/- $8 +/- $0.02/lb TECHNICAL INFORMATION The scientific and technical information contained in this press release has been reviewed and approved by Steven Yopps, MMSA, Director - Metallurgy, North America; Chad Yuhasz, P.Geo, Mineral Resource Manager, Latin America and Australia Pacific; Simon Bottoms, CGeol, MGeol, FGS, MAusIMM, Mineral Resources Manager, Africa and Middle East; Rodney Quick, MSc, Pr. Sci.Nat, Mineral Resource Management and Evaluation Executive; John Steele, CIM, Metallurgy, Engineering and Capital Projects Executive; and Rob Krcmarov, FAusIMM, Executive Vice President, Exploration and Growth each a Qualified Person as defined in National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects. ENDNOTES Endnote 1 Adjusted net earnings and adjusted net earnings per share are non-GAAP financial performance measures. Adjusted net earnings excludes the following from net earnings: certain impairment charges (reversals) related to intangibles, goodwill, property, plant and equipment, and investments; gains (losses) and other one-time costs relating to acquisitions or dispositions; foreign currency translation gains (losses); significant tax adjustments not related to current period earnings; unrealized gains (losses) on non-hedge derivative instruments; and the tax effect and non-controlling interest of these items. The Company uses this measure internally to evaluate our underlying operating performance for the reporting periods presented and to assist with the planning and forecasting of future operating results. Barrick believes that adjusted net earnings is a useful measure of our performance because these adjusting items do not reflect the underlying operating performance of our core mining business and are not necessarily indicative of future operating results. Adjusted net earnings and adjusted net earnings per share are intended to provide additional information only and do not have any standardized meaning under IFRS and may not be comparable to similar measures of performance presented by other companies. They should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures of performance prepared in accordance with IFRS. Further details on these non-GAAP measures are provided in the MD&A accompanying Barricks financial statements filed from time to time on SEDAR at www.sedar.com and on EDGAR at www.sec.gov. Reconciliation of Net Earnings to Net Earnings per Share, Adjusted Net Earnings and Adjusted Net Earnings per Share ($ millions, except per share amounts in dollars) For the three months ended March 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 March 31, 2018 Net earnings (loss) attributable to equity holders of the Company $ 111 $ (1,197 ) $ 158 Impairment charges related to intangibles, goodwill, property, plant and equipment, and investmentsa 3 408 2 Acquisition/disposition (gains) lossesb (19 ) (46 ) Foreign currency translation losses (gains) 22 (16 ) 15 Significant tax adjustmentsc 8 719 46 Other expense (income) adjustmentsd 47 261 (6 ) Unrealized (gains) losses on non-hedge derivative instruments (1 ) 1 Tax effect and non-controlling interest (6 ) (88 ) 1 Adjusted net earnings $ 184 $ 69 $ 170 Net earnings per sharee 0.06 (1.02 ) 0.14 Adjusted net earnings per sharee 0.11 0.06 0.15 Net impairment charges for the three months ended December 31, 2018 primarily relate to non-current asset and goodwill impairments at Veladero. Disposition gains primarily relate to the gain on the sale of a non-core royalty asset at Acacia for the three months ended March 31, 2018. Significant tax adjustments for the three months ended December 31, 2018 primarily relate to the de-recognition of our Canadian and Peruvian deferred tax assets. Other expense adjustments for the three months ended March 31, 2019 primarily relate to severance costs as a result of the implementation of a number of organizational reductions and the impact of changes in the discount rate assumptions on our closed mine rehabilitation provision. For the three months ended December 31, 2018, other expense adjustments mainly relate to the inventory impairment charge at Lagunas Norte, the write-off of a Western Australia long-term stamp duty receivable and costs associated with the merger with Randgold. Calculated using weighted average number of shares outstanding under the basic method of earnings per share. Endnote 2 Includes Acacia on a 63.9% basis, Pueblo Viejo on a 60% basis, South Arturo on a 60% basis and Veladero on a 50% basis, which reflects our equity share of production and sales. Also includes Loulo-Gounkoto on an 80% basis, Kibali on a 45% basis, Tongon on an 89.7% basis and Morila on an 40% basis, which reflects our equity share of production and sales, commencing January 1, 2019, the effective date of the merger with Randgold. Endnote 3 Realized price is a non-GAAP financial measure which excludes from sales: unrealized gains and losses on non-hedge derivative contracts; unrealized mark-to-market gains and losses on provisional pricing from copper and gold sales contracts; sales attributable to ore purchase arrangements; treatment and refining charges; and export duties. This measure is intended to enable Management to better understand the price realized in each reporting period for gold and copper sales because unrealized mark-to-market values of non-hedge gold and copper derivatives are subject to change each period due to changes in market factors such as market and forward gold and copper prices, so that prices ultimately realized may differ from those recorded. The exclusion of such unrealized mark-to-market gains and losses from the presentation of this performance measure enables investors to understand performance based on the realized proceeds of selling gold and copper production. The realized price measure is intended to provide additional information and does not have any standardized definition under IFRS and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures of performance prepared in accordance with IFRS. Further details on these non-GAAP measures are provided in the MD&A accompanying Barricks financial statements filed from time to time on SEDAR at www.sedar.com and on EDGAR at www.sec.gov . Reconciliation of Sales to Realized Price per ounce/pound ($ millions, except per ounce/pound information in dollars) Gold Copper For the three months ended March 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 March 31, 2018 March 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 March 31, 2018 Sales $ 1,906 $ 1,734 $ 1,643 $ 163 $ 144 $ 111 Sales applicable to non-controlling interests (224 ) (197 ) (187 ) Sales applicable to equity method investmentsa,b 129 121 116 113 Realized non-hedge gold/copper derivative (losses) gains Sales applicable to Pierinac (26 ) (28 ) (29 ) Treatment and refinement charges 31 41 31 Export duties (4 ) Revenues as adjusted $ 1,785 $ 1,505 $ 1,427 $ 315 $ 301 $ 255 Ounces/pounds sold (000s ounces/millions pounds)c 1,365 1,232 1,071 103 109 85 Realized gold/copper price per ounce/poundd $ 1,307 $ 1,223 $ 1,332 $ 3.07 $ 2.76 $ 2.98 Represents sales of $117 million for the three months ended March 31, 2019 (December 31, 2018: $nil and March 31, 2018: $nil) applicable to our 45% equity method investment in Kibali and $12 million (December 31, 2018: $nil and March 31, 2018: $nil) applicable to our 40% equity method investment in Morila for gold. Represents sales of $81 million for the three months ended March 31, 2019 (December 31, 2018: $84 million and March 31, 2018: $72 million) applicable to our 50% equity method investment in Zaldivar and $44 million (December 31, 2018: $37 million and March 31, 2018: $41 million) applicable to our 50% equity method investment in Jabal Sayid for copper. Sales applicable to equity method investments are net of treatment and refinement charges. Figures exclude Pierina from the calculation of realized price per ounce as the mine is mining incidental ounces as it enters closure. Realized price per ounce/pound may not calculate based on amounts presented in this table due to rounding. Endnote 4 Free cash flow is a non-GAAP financial performance measure which deducts capital expenditures from net cash provided by operating activities. Barrick believes this to be a useful indicator of our ability to operate without reliance on additional borrowing or usage of existing cash. Free cash flow is intended to provide additional information only and does not have any standardized meaning under IFRS and may not be comparable to similar measures of performance presented by other companies. Free cash flow should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures of performance prepared in accordance with IFRS. Further details on this non-GAAP measure are provided in the MD&A accompanying Barricks financial statements filed from time to time on SEDAR at www.sedar.com and on EDGAR at www.sec.gov. Reconciliation of Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities to Free Cash Flow ($ millions) For the three months ended March 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 March 31, 2018 Net cash provided by operating activities $ 520 $ 411 $ 507 Capital expenditures (374 ) (374 ) (326 ) Free cash flow $ 146 $ 37 $ 181 Endnote 5 These amounts are presented on the same basis as our guidance and include our 60% share of Pueblo Viejo and South Arturo, our 63.9% share of Acacia and our 50% share of Zaldivar and Jabal Sayid. Also includes our 80% share of Loulo-Gounkoto, 89.7% share of Tongon, 45% share of Kibali and 40% share of Morila, commencing January 1, 2019, the effective date of the Merger. Endnote 6 Cost of sales applicable to gold per ounce is calculated using cost of sales applicable to gold on an attributable basis (removing the non-controlling interest of 40% Pueblo Viejo, 36.1% Acacia and 40% South Arturo from cost of sales), divided by attributable gold ounces sold. The non-controlling interest of 20% Loulo-Gounkoto and 10.3% of Tongon is also removed from cost of sales and our proportionate share of cost of sales attributable to equity method investments (Kibali and Morila) is included commencing January 1, 2019, the effective date of the Merger. Cost of sales applicable to copper per pound is calculated using cost of sales applicable to copper including our proportionate share of cost of sales attributable to equity method investments (Zaldivar and Jabal Sayid), divided by consolidated copper pounds sold (including our proportionate share of copper pounds sold from our equity method investments). Endnote 7 Total cash costs per ounce and All-in sustaining costs per ounce are non-GAAP financial performance measures. Total cash costs per ounce starts with cost of sales applicable to gold production, but excludes the impact of depreciation, the non-controlling interest of cost of sales, and includes by-product credits. All-in sustaining costs per ounce begin with Total cash costs per ounce and add further costs which reflect the additional costs of operating a mine, primarily sustaining capital expenditures, sustaining leases, general & administrative costs, minesite exploration and evaluation costs, and reclamation cost accretion and amortization. Barrick believes that the use of total cash costs per ounce and all-in sustaining costs per ounce will assist investors, analysts and other stakeholders in understanding the costs associated with producing gold, understanding the economics of gold mining, assessing our operating performance and also our ability to generate free cash flow from current operations and to generate free cash flow on an overall Company basis. Total cash costs per ounce and All-in sustaining costs per ounce are intended to provide additional information only and do not have any standardized meaning under IFRS. Although a standardized definition of all-in sustaining costs was published in 2013 by the World Gold Council (a market development organization for the gold industry comprised of and funded by 27 gold mining companies from around the world, including Barrick), it is not a regulatory organization, and other companies may calculate this measure differently. Starting in the first quarter of 2019, we have renamed "cash costs" to "total cash costs" when referring to our gold production. The calculation of total cash costs is identical to our previous calculation of cash costs with only a change in the naming convention of this non-GAAP measure. These measures should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures prepared in accordance with IFRS. Further details on these non-GAAP measures are provided in the MD&A accompanying Barricks financial statements filed from time to time on SEDAR at www.sedar.com and on EDGAR at www.sec.gov . Reconciliation of Gold Cost of Sales to Total cash costs, All-in sustaining costs and All-in costs, including on a per ounce basis ($ millions, except per ounce information in dollars) For the three months ended Footnote March 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 March 31, 2018 Cost of sales applicable to gold production $ 1,350 $ 1,353 $ 1,046 Depreciation (384 ) (346 ) (298 ) Cash cost of sales applicable to equity method investments 62 By-product credits (24 ) (26 ) (36 ) Realized (gains) losses on hedge and non-hedge derivatives a 3 Non-recurring items b (20 ) (155 ) (7 ) Other c (20 ) (27 ) (21 ) Non-controlling interests d (101 ) (80 ) (72 ) Total cash costs $ 863 $ 722 $ 612 General & administrative costs 54 53 48 Minesite exploration and evaluation costs e 11 14 6 Minesite sustaining capital expenditures f 253 276 231 Sustaining leases 10 Rehabilitation - accretion and amortization (operating sites) g 14 18 19 Non-controlling interest, copper operations and other h (75 ) (118 ) (55 ) All-in sustaining costs $ 1,130 $ 965 $ 861 Project exploration and evaluation and project costs e 63 110 67 Community relations costs not related to current operations 1 2 1 Project capital expenditures f 120 127 100 Rehabilitation - accretion and amortization (non-operating sites) g 7 8 8 Non-controlling interest and copper operations h (3 ) (5 ) (5 ) All-in costs $ 1,318 $ 1,207 $ 1,032 Ounces sold - equity basis (000s ounces) i 1,365 1,232 1,071 Cost of sales per ounce j,k $ 947 $ 980 $ 878 Total cash costs per ounce k $ 631 $ 588 $ 573 Total cash costs per ounce (on a co-product basis) k,l $ 644 $ 602 $ 596 All-in sustaining costs per ounce k $ 825 $ 788 $ 804 All-in sustaining costs per ounce (on a co-product basis) k,l $ 838 $ 802 $ 827 All-in costs per ounce k $ 964 $ 985 $ 963 All-in costs per ounce (on a co-product basis) k,l $ 977 $ 999 $ 986 a. Realized (gains) losses on hedge and non-hedge derivatives Includes realized hedge losses of $nil for the three month period ended March 31, 2019 (December 31, 2018: $2 million and March 31, 2018: $1 million), and realized non-hedge gains of $nil for the three month period ended March 31, 2019 (December 31, 2018: losses of $1 million and March 31, 2018: gains of $1 million, respectively). Refer to note 5 to the Financial Statements for further information. b. Non-recurring items Non-recurring items in 2019 relate to organizational restructuring. These costs are not indicative of our cost of production and have been excluded from the calculation of total cash costs. c. Other Other adjustments for the three month period ended March 31, 2019 include the removal of total cash costs and by-product credits associated with our Pierina mine, which is mining incidental ounces as it enters closure, of $18 million (December 31, 2018: $27 million and March 31, 2018: $21 million). d. Non-controlling interests Non-controlling interests include non-controlling interests related to gold production of $152 million for the three month periods ended March 31, 2019 (December 31, 2018: $114 million and March 31, 2018: $106 million). Non-controlling interests include Pueblo Viejo and Acacia. Starting January 1, 2019, the effective date of the Merger, non-controlling interests also include Loulo-Gounkoto and Tongon. Refer to note 5 to the Financial Statements for further information. e. Exploration and evaluation costs Exploration, evaluation and project expenses are presented as minesite sustaining if it supports current mine operations and project if it relates to future projects. Refer to page 49 of Barrick's first quarter MD&A. f. Capital expenditures Capital expenditures are related to our gold sites only and are presented on a 100% cash basis for the three months ended March 31, 2019 and on a 100% accrued basis for the three month periods ended December 31, 2018 and March 31, 2018. They are split between minesite sustaining and project capital expenditures. Project capital expenditures are distinct projects designed to increase the net present value of the mine and are not related to current production. Significant projects in the current year are stripping at Cortez Crossroads, the Goldrush exploration declines, the Deep South Expansion, and construction of the third shaft at Turquoise Ridge. Refer to page 48 of Barrick's first quarter MD&A. g. Rehabilitationaccretion and amortization Includes depreciation on the assets related to rehabilitation provisions of our gold operations and accretion on the rehabilitation provision of our gold operations, split between operating and non-operating sites. h. Non-controlling interest and copper operations Removes general & administrative costs related to non-controlling interests and copper based on a percentage allocation of revenue. Also removes exploration, evaluation and project expenses, rehabilitation costs and capital expenditures incurred by our copper sites and the non-controlling interest of our Acacia and Pueblo Viejo operating segments and South Arturo. Also removes the non-controlling interest of our Loulo-Gounkoto and Tongon operating segments commencing January 1, 2019, the effective date of the Merger, and includes capital expenditures applicable to equity method investments. Figures remove the impact of Pierina. The impact is summarized as the following: ($ millions) For the three months ended Non-controlling interest, copper operations and other March 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 March 31, 2018 General & administrative costs $ (10 ) $ (36 ) $ (7 ) Minesite exploration and evaluation expenses (1 ) (2 ) Rehabilitation - accretion and amortization (operating sites) (1 ) (2 ) (1 ) Minesite sustaining capital expenditures (63 ) (78 ) (47 ) All-in sustaining costs total $ (75 ) $ (118 ) $ (55 ) Project exploration and evaluation and project costs (2 ) (3 ) (3 ) Project capital expenditures (1 ) (2 ) (2 ) All-in costs total $ (3 ) $ (5 ) $ (5 ) i. Ounces sold - equity basis Figures remove the impact of Pierina which is mining incidental ounces as it enters closure. j. Cost of sales per ounce Figures remove the cost of sales impact of Pierina of $27 million for the three month periods ended March 31, 2019 (December 31, 2018: $32 million and March 31, 2018: $32 million),which is mining incidental ounces as it enters closure. Cost of sales per ounce excludes non-controlling interest related to gold production. Cost of sales applicable to gold per ounce is calculated using cost of sales on an attributable basis (removing the non-controlling interest of 40% Pueblo Viejo, 36.1% Acacia and 40% South Arturo from cost of sales), divided by attributable gold ounces. The non-controlling interest of 20% Loulo-Gounkoto and 10.3% of Tongon is also removed from cost of sales and our proportionate share of cost of sales attributable to equity method investments (Kibali and Morila) is included commencing January 1, 2019, the effective date of the Merger. k. Per ounce figures Cost of sales per ounce, total cash costs per ounce, all-in sustaining costs per ounce and all-in costs per ounce may not calculate based on amounts presented in this table due to rounding. l. Co-product costs per ounce Total cash costs per ounce, all-in sustaining costs per ounce and all-in costs per ounce presented on a co-product basis removes the impact of by-product credits of our gold production (net of non-controlling interest) calculated as: ($ millions) For the three months ended March 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 March 31, 2018 By-product credits $ 24 $ 26 $ 36 Non-controlling interest (8 ) (10 ) (11 ) By-product credits (net of non-controlling interest) $ 16 $ 16 $ 25 Endnote 8 C1 cash costs per pound and All-in sustaining costs per pound are non-GAAP financial performance measures. C1 cash costs per pound is based on cost of sales but excludes the impact of depreciation and royalties and includes treatment and refinement charges. All-in sustaining costs per pound begins with C1 cash costs per pound and adds further costs which reflect the additional costs of operating a mine, primarily sustaining capital expenditures, general & administrative costs and royalties and production taxes. Barrick believes that the use of C1 cash costs per pound and all-in sustaining costs per pound will assist investors, analysts, and other stakeholders in understanding the costs associated with producing copper, understanding the economics of copper mining, assessing our operating performance, and also our ability to generate free cash flow from current operations and to generate free cash flow on an overall Company basis. C1 cash costs per pound and All-in sustaining costs per pound are intended to provide additional information only, do not have any standardized meaning under IFRS, and may not be comparable to similar measures of performance presented by other companies. These measures should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures of performance prepared in accordance with IFRS. Further details on these non-GAAP measures are provided in the MD&A accompanying Barricks financial statements filed from time to time on SEDAR at www.sedar.com and on EDGAR at www.sec.gov. Reconciliation of Copper Cost of Sales to C1 cash costs and All-in sustaining costs, including on a per pound basis ($ millions, except per pound information in dollars) For the three months ended March 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 March 31, 2018 Cost of sales $ 131 $ 210 $ 96 Depreciation/amortization (42 ) (84 ) (19 ) Treatment and refinement charges 31 41 31 Cash cost of sales applicable to equity method investments 66 78 63 Less: royalties and production taxesa (12 ) (15 ) (10 ) By-product credits (3 ) (2 ) (2 ) Other (11 ) C1 cash cost of sales $ 171 $ 217 $ 159 General & administrative costs 5 5 5 Rehabilitation - accretion and amortization 3 3 5 Royalties and production taxesa 12 15 10 Minesite exploration and evaluation costs 2 2 Minesite sustaining capital expenditures 59 67 42 Sustaining leases 1 Inventory write-downs 11 All-in sustaining costs $ 253 $ 320 $ 221 Pounds sold - consolidated basis (millions pounds) 103 109 85 Cost of sales per poundb,c $ 2.21 $ 2.85 $ 2.07 C1 cash cost per poundb $ 1.66 $ 1.98 $ 1.88 All-in sustaining costs per poundb $ 2.46 $ 2.95 $ 2.61 For the three month period ended March 31, 2019, royalties and production taxes include royalties of $12 million (December 31, 2018: $11 million and March 31, 2018: $9 million, respectively). Cost of sales per pound, C1 cash costs per pound and all-in sustaining costs per pound may not calculate based on amounts presented in this table due to rounding. Cost of sales applicable to copper per pound is calculated using cost of sales including our proportionate share of cost of sales attributable to equity method investments (Zaldivar and Jabal Sayid), divided by consolidated copper pounds (including our proportionate share of copper pounds from our equity method investments). Endnote 9 A Tier One Gold Asset is a mine with a stated life in excess of 10 years with 2017 production of at least 500,000 ounces of gold and 2017 total cash cost per ounce within the bottom half of Wood Mackenzies cost curve tools (excluding state-owned and privately-owned mines). For purposes of determining Tier One Gold Assets, total cash cost per ounce is based on data from Wood Mackenzie as of August 31, 2018, except in respect of Barricks mines where Barrick may rely on its internal data which is more current and reliable. The Wood Mackenzie calculation of total cash cost per ounce may not be identical to the manner in which Barrick calculates comparable measures. Total cash cost per ounce is a non-GAAP financial performance measure with no standardized meaning under IFRS and therefore may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers. Total cash cost per ounce should not be considered by investors as an alternative to operating profit, net profit attributable to shareholders, or to other IFRS measures. Barrick believes that total cash cost per ounce is a useful indicator for investors and management of a mining companys performance as it provides an indication of a companys profitability and efficiency, the trends in cash costs as the companys operations mature, and a benchmark of performance to allow for comparison against other companies. Wood Mackenzie is an independent third party research and consultancy firm that provides data for, among others, the metals and mining industry. Wood Mackenzie does not have any affiliation to Barrick. Endnote 10 Includes our 60% share of South Arturo. Endnote 11 Other sites include Lagunas Norte, Golden Sunlight, Morila (40%) and excludes Pierina which is mining incidental ounces as it enters closure. Endnote 12 Total gold cash costs and all-in sustaining costs per ounce include the impact of hedges and/or costs allocated to non-operating sites. Operating unit guidance ranges reflect expectations at each individual operating unit, and may not add up to the company-wide guidance range total. Guidance ranges exclude Pierina which is mining incidental ounces as it enters closure. Endnote 13 Includes corporate administration costs. Endnote 14 Reflects impact on the remaining nine months of 2019. Endnote 15 Due to our hedging activities, which are reflected in these sensitivities, we are partially protected against changes in these factors. Financial and Operating Highlights For the three months ended March 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 % Change March 31, 2018 % Change Financial Results ($ millions) Revenues 2,093 1,904 10 % 1,790 17 % Cost of sales 1,490 1,577 (6 )% 1,152 29 % Net earnings (loss)a 111 (1,197 ) 109 % 158 (30 )% Adjusted net earningsb 184 69 167 % 170 8 % Adjusted EBITDAb 1,002 806 24 % 820 22 % Total capital expenditures - sustainingc 253 267 (5 )% 233 9 % Total project capital expendituresc 120 100 20 % 93 29 % Total consolidated capital expendituresc,d 374 374 0 % 326 15 % Net cash provided by operating activities 520 411 27 % 507 3 % Free cash flowb 146 37 295 % 181 (19 %) Per share data (dollars) Net earnings (loss) (basic and diluted) 0.06 (1.02 ) 106 % 0.14 (57 )% Adjusted net earnings (basic)b 0.11 0.06 83 % 0.15 (27 )% Weighted average diluted common shares (millions of shares) 1,746 1,168 49 % 1,167 50 % Operating Results Gold production (thousands of ounces)e 1,367 1,262 8 % 1,049 30 % Gold sold (thousands of ounces)e 1,365 1,232 11 % 1,071 27 % Per ounce data Market gold price ($/oz) 1,304 1,226 6 % 1,329 (2 )% Realized gold priceb,e ($/oz) 1,307 1,223 7 % 1,332 (2 )% Cost of sales (Barricks share)e,f ($/oz) 947 980 (3 )% 878 8 % Total cash costsb,e ($/oz) 631 588 7 % 573 10 % All-in sustaining costsb,e ($/oz) 825 788 5 % 804 3 % Copper production (millions of pounds)g 106 109 (3 )% 85 25 % Copper sold (millions of pounds)g 103 109 (6 )% 85 21 % Per pound data Market copper price ($/lb) 2.82 2.80 1 % 3.16 (11 )% Realized copper priceb,g ($/lb) 3.07 2.76 11 % 2.98 3 % Cost of sales (Barricks share)g,h ($/lb) 2.21 2.85 (22 )% 2.07 7 % C1 cash costsb,g ($/lb) 1.66 1.98 (16 )% 1.88 (12 )% All-in sustaining costsb,g ($/lb) 2.46 2.95 (17 )% 2.61 (6 )% As at March 31, 2019 As at December 31, 2018 % Change As at March 31, 2018 % Change Financial Position (millions) Debt (current and long-term) 5,807 5,738 1 % 6,401 (9 )% Cash and equivalents 2,153 1,571 37 % 2,384 (10 )% Debt, net of cash 3,654 4,167 (12 )% 4,017 (9 )% Net earnings (loss) represents net earnings (loss) attributable to the equity holders of the Company. Adjusted net earnings, adjusted EBITDA, free cash flow, adjusted net earnings per share, realized gold price, all-in sustaining costs, total cash costs, C1 cash costs and realized copper price are non-GAAP financial performance measures with no standardized meaning under IFRS and therefore may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers. For further information and a detailed reconciliation of each non-GAAP measure to the most directly comparable IFRS measure, please see pages 55 to 70 of our first quarter MD&A. Amounts presented on a consolidated cash basis. Project capital expenditures are included in our calculation of all-in costs, but not included in our calculation of all-in sustaining costs. Total consolidated capital expenditures also includes capitalized interest. Includes Acacia on a 63.9% basis, Pueblo Viejo on a 60% basis, South Arturo on a 60% basis, and Veladero on a 50% basis, which reflects our equity share of production and sales. Also includes Loulo-Gounkoto on an 80% basis, Kibali on a 45% basis, Tongon on an 89.7% basis and Morila on a 40% basis, which reflects our equity share of production and sales, commencing January 1, 2019, the effective date of the merger with Randgold. Cost of sales per ounce (Barricks share) is calculated as cost of sales - gold on an attributable basis (excluding Pierina) divided by gold ounces sold. Amounts reflect production and sales from Jabal Sayid and Zaldivar on a 50% basis, which reflects our equity share of production, and Lumwana. Cost of sales per pound (Barricks share) is calculated as cost of sales - copper plus our equity share of cost of sales attributable to Zaldivar and Jabal Sayid divided by copper pounds sold. Production and Cost Summary - Gold For the three months ended March 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 % Change March 31, 2018 % Change Barrick Nevadaa Gold produced (000s oz) 572 694 (18)% 517 11% Cost of sales ($/oz) 780 793 (2)% 829 (6)% Total cash costs ($/oz)b 542 501 8% 533 2% All-in sustaining costs ($/oz)b 678 616 10% 694 (2)% Cortez Gold produced (000s oz) 262 360 (27)% 285 (8)% Cost of sales ($/oz) 682 675 1% 682 0% Total cash costs ($/oz)b 433 350 24% 363 19% All-in sustaining costs ($/oz)b 506 424 19% 414 22% Goldstrikec Gold produced (000s oz) 233 260 (10)% 186 25% Cost of sales ($/oz) 947 952 (1)% 1,076 (12)% Total cash costs ($/oz)b 671 656 2% 755 (11)% All-in sustaining costs ($/oz)b 891 833 7% 1,094 (19)% Turquoise Ridge (75%) Gold produced (000s oz) 77 74 4% 46 67% Cost of sales ($/oz) 592 802 (26)% 720 (18)% Total cash costs ($/oz)b 506 701 (28)% 601 (16)% All-in sustaining costs ($/oz)b 592 798 (26)% 709 (17)% Pueblo Viejo (60%) Gold produced (000s oz) 148 166 (11)% 141 5% Cost of sales ($/oz) 696 686 1% 683 2% Total cash costs ($/oz)b 421 425 (1)% 409 3% All-in sustaining costs ($/oz)b 543 559 (3)% 571 (5)% Loulo-Gounkoto (80%)d Gold produced (000s oz) 128 154 (17)% Cost of sales ($/oz) 1,052 Total cash costs ($/oz)b 684 All-in sustaining costs ($/oz)b 840 Kibali (45%)d Gold produced (000s oz) 93 94 (1)% Cost of sales ($/oz) 1,202 Total cash costs ($/oz)b 573 All-in sustaining costs ($/oz)b 673 Kalgoorlie (50%) Gold produced (000s oz) 55 58 (5)% 85 (35)% Cost of sales ($/oz) 1,064 1,022 4% 865 23% Total cash costs ($/oz)b 870 857 2% 690 26% All-in sustaining costs ($/oz)b 1,185 1,054 12% 836 42% Tongon (89.7%)d Gold produced (000s oz) 61 72 (15)% Cost of sales ($/oz) 1,451 Total cash costs ($/oz)b 799 All-in sustaining costs ($/oz)b 836 Porgera (47.5%) Gold produced (000s oz) 66 70 (6)% 40 65% Cost of sales ($/oz) 1,031 733 41% 1,138 (9)% Total cash costs ($/oz)b 854 786 9% 801 7% All-in sustaining costs ($/oz)b 978 1,018 (4)% 1,111 (12)% Veladero (50%) Gold produced (000s oz) 70 77 (9)% 74 (5)% Cost of sales ($/oz) 1,195 1,352 (12)% 1,036 15% Total cash costs ($/oz)b 713 823 (13)% 576 24% All-in sustaining costs ($/oz)b 1,100 1,648 (33)% 1,008 9% Hemlo Gold produced (000s oz) 55 52 6% 40 38% Cost of sales ($/oz) 906 1,083 (16)% 1,189 (24)% Total cash costs ($/oz)b 769 932 (17)% 1,095 (30)% All-in sustaining costs ($/oz)b 915 1,311 (30)% 1,271 (28)% Acacia (63.9%) Gold produced (000s oz) 67 84 (20)% 77 (13)% Cost of sales ($/oz) 1,114 852 31% 941 18% Total cash costs ($/oz)b 850 651 31% 715 19% All-in sustaining costs ($/oz)b 1,023 857 19% 976 5% Lagunas Norte Gold produced (000s oz) 35 50 (30)% 66 (47)% Cost of sales ($/oz) 1,304 4,186 (69)% 542 141% Total cash costs ($/oz)b 637 607 5% 330 93% All-in sustaining costs ($/oz)b 1,018 796 28% 496 105% Golden Sunlight Gold produced (000s oz) 7 11 (36)% 9 (22)% Cost of sales ($/oz) 2,174 1,423 53% 1,484 46% Total cash costs ($/oz)b 1,974 1,430 38% 1,525 29% All-in sustaining costs ($/oz)b 2,471 1,586 56% 1,658 49% Morila (40%)d Gold produced (000s oz) 10 8 25% Cost of sales ($/oz) 1,445 Total cash costs ($/oz)b 1,157 All-in sustaining costs ($/oz)b 1,157 Total Consolidated Gold produced (000s oz)e 1,367 1,262 8% 1,049 30% Cost of sales ($/oz)f 947 980 (3)% 878 8% Total cash costs ($/oz)b 631 588 7% 573 10% All-in sustaining costs ($/oz)b 825 788 5% 804 3% Represents the combined results of Cortez, Goldstrike (including our 60% share of South Arturo), and starting with the first quarter of 2019 our 75% interest in Turquoise Ridge. These are non-GAAP financial performance measures with no standardized meaning under IFRS and therefore may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers. For further information and a detailed reconciliation of each non-GAAP measure to the most directly comparable IFRS measure, please see pages 55 to 70 of our first quarter MD&A. Includes production and sales from South Arturo on a 60% basis, which reflects our equity share. The results for the three months ended December 31, 2018 did not form a part of the Barrick consolidated results as these sites were acquired as a result of the Merger. As a result, operational statistics are presented for the three months ended December 31, 2018 for reference purposes only. Total consolidated gold production for the three months ended December 31, 2018 excludes gold production from the sites acquired as part of the Randgold merger on January 1, 2019. Cost of sales per ounce (Barricks share) is calculated as cost of sales - gold on an attributable basis excluding Pierina divided by gold equity ounces sold. Production and Cost Summary - Copper For the three months ended March 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 % Change March 31, 2018 % Change Lumwana Copper production (millions lbs) 61 65 (6 )% 48 27 % Cost of sales ($/lb) 2.16 3.22 (33 )% 2.02 7 % C1 cash cash costs ($/lb)a 1.67 2.12 (21 )% 2.00 (17 )% All-in sustaining costs ($/lb)a 2.79 3.26 (14 )% 2.73 2 % Zaldivar (50%) Copper production (millions lbs) 28 29 (3 )% 24 17 % Cost of sales ($/lb) 2.68 2.55 5 % 2.37 13 % C1 cash cash costs ($/lb)a 1.91 1.91 0 % 1.84 4 % All-in sustaining costs ($/lb)a 2.12 2.50 (15 )% 2.50 (15 )% Jabal Sayid (50%) Copper production (millions lbs) 17 15 13 % 13 31 % Cost of sales ($/lb) 1.55 1.70 (9 )% 1.79 (13 )% C1 cash cash costs ($/lb)a 1.10 1.48 (26 )% 1.55 (29 )% All-in sustaining costs ($/lb)a 1.30 2.04 (36 )% 1.97 (34 )% Total Copper Copper production (millions lbs) 106 109 (3 )% 85 25 % Cost of sales ($/lb)b 2.21 2.85 (22 )% 2.07 7 % C1 cash cash costs ($/lb)a 1.66 1.98 (16 )% 1.88 (12 )% All-in sustaining costs ($/lb)a 2.46 2.95 (17 )% 2.61 (6 )% These are non-GAAP financial performance measures with no standardized meaning under IFRS and therefore may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers. For further information and a detailed reconciliation of each non-GAAP measure to the most directly comparable IFRS measure, please see pages 55 to 70 of our first quarter MD&A. Cost of sales per pound (Barricks share) is calculated as cost of sales - copper plus our equity share of cost of sales attributable to Zaldivar and Jabal Sayid divided by copper pounds sold. Consolidated Statements of Income Barrick Gold Corporation (in millions of United States dollars, except per share data) (Unaudited) Three months ended March 31, 2019 2018 Revenue (notes 5 and 6) $2,093 $1,790 Costs and expenses (income) Cost of sales (notes 5 and 7) 1,490 1,152 General and administrative expenses 54 48 Exploration, evaluation and project expenses 74 73 Impairment charges (notes 9B and 13) 3 2 Loss on currency translation 22 15 Closed mine rehabilitation 25 (9 ) Income from equity investees (note 12) (28 ) (16 ) Gain on non-hedge derivatives (1 ) (2 ) Other expense (note 9A) 27 1 Income before finance costs and income taxes $427 $526 Finance costs, net (120 ) (133 ) Income before income taxes $307 $393 Income tax expense (note 10) (167 ) (201 ) Net income $140 $192 Attributable to: Equity holders of Barrick Gold Corporation $111 $158 Non-controlling interests $29 $34 Earnings per share data attributable to the equity holders of Barrick Gold Corporation (note 8) Net income Basic $0.06 $0.14 Diluted $0.06 $0.14 The notes to these unaudited condensed interim financial statements, which are contained in the First Quarter Report 2019 available on our website are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements. Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income Barrick Gold Corporation (in millions of United States dollars) (Unaudited) Three months ended March 31, 2019 2018 Net income $140 $192 Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of taxes Items that may be reclassified subsequently to profit or loss: Unrealized gains (losses) on derivatives designated as cash flow hedges, net of tax $nil and ($3) 6 Currency translation adjustments, net of tax $nil and $nil (2 ) Items that will not be reclassified to profit or loss: Net unrealized change on equity investments, net of tax $nil and $nil (3 ) (4 ) Net realized change on equity investments, net of tax $nil and $nil (1 ) Total other comprehensive (loss) income (6 ) 2 Total comprehensive income $134 $194 Attributable to: Equity holders of Barrick Gold Corporation $105 $160 Non-controlling interests $29 $34 The notes to these unaudited condensed interim financial statements, which are contained in the First Quarter Report 2019 available on our website are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements. Consolidated Statements of Cash Flow Barrick Gold Corporation (in millions of United States dollars) (Unaudited) Three months ended March 31, 2019 2018 OPERATING ACTIVITIES Net income $140 $192 Adjustments for the following items: Depreciation 435 325 Finance costs 127 138 Impairment charges (notes 9B and 13) 3 2 Income tax expense (note 10) 167 201 Gain on sale of non-current assets (46 ) Currency translation losses 22 15 Change in working capital (note 11) (244 ) (152 ) Other operating activities (note 11) (28 ) (88 ) Operating cash flows before interest and income taxes 622 587 Interest paid (28 ) (28 ) Income taxes paid (74 ) (52 ) Net cash provided by operating activities 520 507 INVESTING ACTIVITIES Property, plant and equipment Capital expenditures (note 5) (374 ) (326 ) Sales proceeds 3 47 Investment purchases (3 ) (1 ) Cash acquired in merger 751 Other investing activities (note 11) 45 (4 ) Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities 422 (284 ) FINANCING ACTIVITIES Lease repayments (12 ) Debt repayments (16 ) (23 ) Dividends (333 ) (31 ) Funding from non-controlling interests 6 8 Disbursements to non-controlling interests (5 ) (26 ) Net cash used in financing activities (360 ) (72 ) Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and equivalents (1 ) Net increase in cash and equivalents 582 150 Cash and equivalents at the beginning of period 1,571 2,234 Cash and equivalents at the end of period $2,153 $2,384 The notes to these unaudited condensed interim financial statements, which are contained in the First Quarter Report 2019 available on our website are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements. Consolidated Balance Sheets Barrick Gold Corporation (in millions of United States dollars) (Unaudited) As at March 31, As at December 31, 2019 2018 ASSETS Current assets Cash and equivalents (note 14A) $2,153 $1,571 Accounts receivable 383 248 Inventories 1,966 1,852 Other current assets 372 307 Total current assets $4,874 $3,978 Non-current assets Equity in investees (note 12) 4,444 1,234 Property, plant and equipment 16,891 12,826 Goodwill 2,810 1,176 Intangible assets 227 227 Deferred income tax assets 251 259 Non-current portion of inventory 1,879 1,696 Other assets 1,253 1,235 Total assets $32,629 $22,631 LIABILITIES AND EQUITY Current liabilities Accounts payable $1,213 $1,101 Debt 308 43 Current income tax liabilities 191 203 Other current liabilities 272 321 Total current liabilities $1,984 $1,668 Non-current liabilities Debt 5,499 5,695 Provisions 3,113 2,904 Deferred income tax liabilities 2,003 1,236 Other liabilities 1,728 1,743 Total liabilities $14,327 $13,246 Equity Capital stock (note 16) $28,792 $20,883 Deficit (13,351 ) (13,453 ) Accumulated other comprehensive loss (164 ) (158 ) Other 321 321 Total equity attributable to Barrick Gold Corporation shareholders $15,598 $7,593 Non-controlling interests 2,704 1,792 Total equity $18,302 $9,385 Contingencies and commitments (notes 5 and 17) Total liabilities and equity $32,629 $22,631 The notes to these unaudited condensed interim financial statements, which are contained in the First Quarter Report 2019 available on our website are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements. Consolidated Statements of Changes in Equity Barrick Gold Corporation Attributable to equity holders of the company (in millions of United States dollars) (Unaudited) Common Shares (in thousands) Capital stock Retained deficit Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)1 Other2 Total equity attributable to shareholders Non- controlling interests Total equity At January 1, 2019 1,167,847 $20,883 ($13,453 ) ($158 ) $321 $7,593 $1,792 $9,385 Net income 111 111 29 140 Total other comprehensive loss (6 ) (6 ) (6 ) Total comprehensive income (loss) 111 (6 ) 105 29 134 Transactions with owners Dividends (3 ) (3 ) (3 ) Merger with Randgold Resources Limited 583,669 7,903 7,903 882 8,785 Funding from non-controlling interests 6 6 Other decrease in non-controlling interest (5 ) (5 ) Dividend reinvestment plan (note 16) 466 6 (6 ) Total transactions with owners 584,135 7,909 (9 ) 7,900 883 8,783 At March 31, 2019 1,751,982 $28,792 ($13,351 ) ($164 ) $321 $15,598 $2,704 $18,302 At December 31, 2017 1,166,577 $20,893 ($11,759 ) ($169 ) $321 $9,286 $1,781 $11,067 Impact of adopting IFRS 15 on January 1, 2018 64 64 64 At January 1, 2018 (restated) 1,166,577 $20,893 ($11,695 ) ($169 ) $321 $9,350 $1,781 $11,131 Net income 158 158 34 192 Total other comprehensive income 2 2 2 Total comprehensive income 158 2 160 34 194 Transactions with owners Dividends (31 ) (31 ) (31 ) Funding from non-controlling interests 8 8 Other decrease in non-controlling interests (36 ) (36 ) Dividend reinvestment plan 316 4 (4 ) Total transactions with owners 316 4 (35 ) (31 ) (28 ) (59 ) At March 31, 2018 1,166,893 $20,897 ($11,572 ) ($167 ) $321 $9,479 $1,787 $11,266 1 Includes cumulative translation losses at March 31, 2019: $84 million (March 31, 2018: $73 million). 2 Includes additional paid-in capital as at March 31, 2019: $283 million (December 31, 2018: $283 million; March 31, 2018: $283 million) and convertible borrowings - equity component as at March 31, 2019: $38 million (December 31, 2018: $38 million; March 31, 2018: $38 million). The notes to these unaudited condensed interim financial statements, which are contained in the First Quarter Report 2019 available on our website are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements. Corporate Office Barrick Gold Corporation 161 Bay Street, Suite 3700 Toronto, Ontario M5J 2S1 Canada Telephone: +1 416 861-9911 Email: investor@barrick.com Website: www.barrick.com Shares Listed GOLD - The New York Stock Exchange ABX - The Toronto Stock Exchange Transfer Agents and Registrars AST Trust Company (Canada) P.O. Box 700, Postal Station B Montreal, Quebec H3B 3K3 or American Stock Transfer & Trust Company, LLC 6201 15 Avenue Brooklyn, New York 11219 Telephone: 1-800-387-0825 Fax: 1-888-249-6189 Email: inquiries@astfinancial.com Website: www.astfinancial.com Enquiries President and Chief Executive Officer Mark Bristow +1 647 205 7694 +44 788 071 1386 Senior Executive Vice-President and Chief Financial Officer Graham Shuttleworth +44 1534 735 333 +44 779 771 1338 Investor and Media Relations Kathy du Plessis +44 20 7557 7738 Email: barrick@dpapr.com Cautionary Statement on Forward-Looking Information Certain information contained or incorporated by reference in this press release, including any information as to our strategy, projects, plans, or future financial or operating performance, constitutes forward-looking statements. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements. The words believe, expect, anticipate, plan, assume, intend, project, continue, budget, estimate, potential, may, will, can, should, could, would, and similar expressions identify forward-looking statements. In particular, this press release contains forward-looking statements including, without limitation, with respect to: our goal of being the worlds most valued gold company; our ability to meet our business objectives; investment and other opportunities that are available to us; our ability to deliver long-term benefits to host countries and communities; potential mineralization; potential consolidation of the Fourmile project and Goldrush and the value of such a consolidation; the development of potential Tier One gold assets to become Tier One gold assets, including Fourmile and Turquoise Ridge; expected extensions to the life of mine at Kibali and the potential to replenish reserves and resources as a result of recent discoveries; forward-looking production guidance in respect of Kibali; the potential for new mines in the Democratic Republic of Congo; and potential partnerships and engagement with the Congolese government. Forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon a number of estimates and assumptions including material estimates and assumptions related to the factors set forth below that, while considered reasonable by the Company as at the date of this press release in light of managements experience and perception of current conditions and expected developments, are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive uncertainties and contingencies. Known and unknown factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements, and undue reliance should not be placed on such statements and information. Such factors include, but are not limited to: fluctuations in the spot and forward price of gold, copper, or certain other commodities (such as silver, diesel fuel, natural gas, and electricity); the speculative nature of mineral exploration and development; changes in mineral production performance, exploitation, and exploration successes; risks associated with projects in the early stages of evaluation, and for which additional engineering and other analysis is required to fully assess their impact; the duration of the Tanzanian ban on mineral concentrate exports; the ultimate terms of any definitive agreement between Acacia and the Government of Tanzania to resolve a dispute relating to the imposition of the concentrate export ban and allegations by the Government of Tanzania that Acacia under-declared the metal content of concentrate exports from Tanzania and related matters; whether Acacia will approve the terms of any final agreement reached between Barrick and the Government of Tanzania with respect to the dispute between Acacia and the Government of Tanzania; the ability to realize the anticipated benefits of the proposed Nevada joint venture (including estimated synergies and financial benefits) or implementing the business plan for the proposed Nevada joint venture, including as a result of a delay in its completion or difficulty in integrating the Nevada assets of the companies involved; the risk that the conditions to formation of the proposed Nevada joint venture will not be satisfied; the timing for closing of the Nevada joint venture; the benefits expected from recent transactions being realized, including the Randgold merger; diminishing quantities or grades of reserves; increased costs, delays, suspensions and technical challenges associated with the construction of capital projects; operating or technical difficulties in connection with mining or development activities, including geotechnical challenges and disruptions in the maintenance or provision of required infrastructure and information technology systems; failure to comply with environmental and health and safety laws and regulations; timing of receipt of, or failure to comply with, necessary permits and approvals; uncertainty whether some or all of targeted investments and projects will meet the Companys capital allocation objectives and internal hurdle rate; the impact of global liquidity and credit availability on the timing of cash flows and the values of assets and liabilities based on projected future cash flows; adverse changes in our credit ratings; the impact of inflation; fluctuations in the currency markets; changes in U.S. dollar interest rates; risks arising from holding derivative instruments; changes in national and local government legislation, taxation, controls or regulations and/ or changes in the administration of laws, policies and practices, expropriation or nationalization of property and political or economic developments in Canada, the United States, and other jurisdictions in which the Company or its affiliates do or may carry on business in the future; lack of certainty with respect to foreign legal systems, corruption and other factors that are inconsistent with the rule of law; damage to the Companys reputation due to the actual or perceived occurrence of any number of events, including negative publicity with respect to the Companys handling of environmental matters or dealings with community groups, whether true or not; the possibility that future exploration results will not be consistent with the Companys expectations; risks that exploration data may be incomplete and considerable additional work may be required to complete further evaluation, including but not limited to drilling, engineering and socioeconomic studies and investment; risk of loss due to acts of war, terrorism, sabotage and civil disturbances; litigation and legal and administrative proceedings; contests over title to properties, particularly title to undeveloped properties, or over access to water, power and other required infrastructure; business opportunities that may be presented to, or pursued by, the Company; our ability to successfully integrate acquisitions or complete divestitures; risks associated with working with partners in jointly controlled assets; employee relations including loss of key employees; increased costs and physical risks, including extreme weather events and resource shortages, related to climate change; availability and increased costs associated with mining inputs and labor. In addition, there are risks and hazards associated with the business of mineral exploration, development and mining, including environmental hazards, industrial accidents, unusual or unexpected formations, pressures, cave-ins, flooding and gold bullion, copper cathode or gold or copper concentrate losses (and the risk of inadequate insurance, or inability to obtain insurance, to cover these risks). Many of these uncertainties and contingencies can affect our actual results and could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in any forward-looking statements made by, or on behalf of, us. Readers are cautioned that forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance. All of the forward-looking statements made in this press release are qualified by these cautionary statements. Specific reference is made to the most recent Form 40- F/Annual Information Form on file with the SEC and Canadian provincial securities regulatory authorities for a more detailed discussion of some of the factors underlying forward-looking statements and the risks that may affect Barricks ability to achieve the expectations set forth in the forward-looking statements contained in this press release. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable law. Phase 3 APeX-2 24-week safety and efficacy data of once-daily oral BCX7353 for prophylaxis of hereditary angioedema (HAE) attacks on-track for Q2 2019 Phase 3 ZENITH-2 trial of oral BCX7353 for acute treatment of HAE attacks to commence this summer Phase 1 trial of oral Factor D inhibitor, BCX9930, to begin in Q2 2019 Phase 1 trial of oral BCX9250 for fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva (FOP) to begin in 2H 2019 RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, N.C., May 08, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- BioCryst Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (BCRX) today announced financial results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2019 and provided a corporate update. In a year with many milestones across our multiple advancing programs of oral medicines for rare diseases, BioCryst has achieved significant progress in the first quarter and we look forward to reporting data from our APeX-2 trial in the second quarter and filing a new drug application by the end of the year, said Jon Stonehouse, president and chief executive officer of BioCryst. We believe that oral BCX7353 could be transformative for many HAE patients and provide them with the opportunity for a normal life without the burden and discomfort of frequent injections and infusions, Stonehouse added. First Quarter 2019 Corporate Developments The company dosed the first patients in its APeX-J trial in Japan, designed to support potential Japanese approval of BCX7353 for the prevention of HAE attacks. On March 4, 2019, the company announced that it is advancing BCX9930, an oral Factor D inhibitor, into Phase 1 clinical development in the second quarter of 2019 for the treatment of complement-mediated diseases. On February 23, 2019, the company announced data from the completed ZENITH-1 trial (including the 250 mg and 500 mg dose cohorts) of BCX7353 for the acute treatment of HAE attacks at the annual meeting of the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. The company plans to commence a Phase 3 trial, ZENITH-2, in the summer of 2019. On February 6, 2019, the company announced it had entered into a $100 million secured credit facility with MidCap Financial Trust pursuant to the terms and conditions of an amended and restated credit and security agreement. On January 4, 2019, the company announced it had appointed Steve Aselage to its board of directors. On January 2, 2019, the company announced the dosing of the first subject in a randomized, placebo-controlled Phase 1 clinical trial to evaluate intravenous galidesivir, its investigational broad-spectrum antiviral drug, in healthy volunteers. Upcoming Key Milestones HAE Program BCX7353 Story continues Report 24-week safety and efficacy results from the Phase 3 APeX-2 clinical trial (Q2 2019) Begin ZENITH-2, a Phase 3 clinical trial of oral BCX7353 (750 mg) for the acute treatment of HAE (Summer 2019) File a new drug application for oral BCX7353 for the prevention of HAE attacks with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) (Q4 2019) File a marketing authorization application for oral BCX7353 for the prevention of HAE attacks with the European Medicines Agency (EMA) (Q1 2020) Complement Factor D Inhibitor Program BCX9930 Begin a Phase 1 trial of BCX9930, an oral Factor D inhibitor for treatment of complement-mediated diseases, in healthy subjects (Q2 2019) Report Phase 1 results (Q4 2019) ALK-2 Inhibitor Program BCX9250 Begin a Phase 1 clinical trial of BCX9250, an oral ALK-2 kinase inhibitor for treatment of FOP, in healthy subjects (2H 2019) First Quarter 2019 Financial Results For the three months ended March 31, 2019, total revenues were $5.9 million, compared to $4.0 million in the first quarter of 2018. The increase was primarily due to the recognition of $1.7 million of peramivir product sales to Green Cross, the companys commercial partner in Korea, and an increase in revenue from galidesivir development under U.S. government contracts, and partially offset by lower royalty revenue. Research and development (R&D) expenses for the first quarter of 2019 increased to $27.5 million from $18.4 million in the first quarter of 2018, primarily due to increased spending on the HAE, preclinical and galidesivir programs. General and administrative (G&A) expenses for the first quarter of 2019 decreased to $6.2 million, compared to $7.6 million in the first quarter of 2018. The decrease was primarily due to approximately $4.7 million of merger-related costs that were incurred in the first quarter of 2018 but did not recur in 2019, offset by an overall increase in G&A expenses as the company prepares for the commercial launch of BCX7353. Interest expense was $2.7 million in the first quarter of 2019, compared to $2.2 million in the first quarter of 2018 and was primarily associated with enhancements to the companys secured credit facility in July 2018 and February 2019. Net loss for the first quarter of 2019 was $31.1 million, or $0.28 per share, compared to a net loss of $25.8 million, or $0.26 per share, for the first quarter of 2018. Cash, cash equivalents and investments totaled $121.6 million at March 31, 2019, and reflect a decrease from $128.4 million at December 31, 2018. Cash and investments reflect the proceeds from an enhancement to our secured credit facility in February 2019 and were partially offset by normal operating expenses. Operating cash use for the first quarter of 2019 was $27.1 million. In February 2019, the company entered into a $100 million secured credit facility with MidCap Financial Trust which further enhanced the companys cash position with $20 million of immediate additional non-dilutive capital and also provided additional financial flexibility through the ability to draw another $50 million of milestone-based non-dilutive capital. Financial Outlook for 2019 BioCryst continues to expect net operating cash use to be in the range of $105 to $130 million, and its 2019 operating expenses to be in the range of $120 to $145 million. The companys operating expense range excludes equity-based compensation expense due to the difficulty in reliably projecting this expense, as it is impacted by the volatility and price of the companys stock, as well as by the vesting of the companys outstanding performance-based stock options. Conference Call and Webcast BioCryst management will host a conference call and webcast at 8:30 a.m. ET today to discuss the financial results and provide a corporate update. The live call may be accessed by dialing 877-303-8027 for domestic callers and 760-536-5165 for international callers and using conference ID # 1777029. A live webcast of the call and any slides will be available online at the investors section of the company website at www.biocryst.com. A telephone replay of the call will be available by dialing 855-859-2056 for domestic callers or 404-537-3406 for international callers and entering the conference ID # 1777029. About BioCryst Pharmaceuticals BioCryst Pharmaceuticals discovers novel, oral small-molecule medicines that treat rare diseases in which significant unmet medical needs exist and an enzyme plays a key role in the biological pathway of the disease. BioCryst has several ongoing development programs including BCX7353, an oral treatment for hereditary angioedema, BCX9930, an oral Factor D inhibitor for the treatment of complement-mediated diseases, galidesivir, a potential treatment for Marburg virus disease and Yellow Fever, and a preclinical program to develop oral ALK-2 inhibitors for the treatment of fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva. RAPIVAB (peramivir injection), a viral neuraminidase inhibitor for the treatment of influenza, is BioCryst's first approved product and has received regulatory approval in the U.S., Canada, Australia, Japan, Taiwan, Korea and the European Union. Post-marketing commitments for RAPIVAB are ongoing. For more information, please visit the Company's website at www.BioCryst.com. Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains forward-looking statements, including statements regarding future results, performance or achievements. These statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause BioCrysts actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performances or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. These statements reflect our current views with respect to future events and are based on assumptions and are subject to risks and uncertainties. Given these uncertainties, you should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. Some of the factors that could affect the forward-looking statements contained herein include: that developing any HAE product candidate may take longer or may be more expensive than planned; that ongoing and future preclinical and clinical development of BCX9930, BCX9250 and our HAE drug candidates (including APeX-2, APeX-S and APeX-J) may not have positive results; that BioCryst may not be able to enroll the required number of subjects in planned clinical trials of product candidates; that the company may not advance human clinical trials with product candidates as expected; that the FDA, EMA or other applicable regulatory agency may require additional studies beyond the studies planned for product candidates, or may not provide regulatory clearances which may result in delay of planned clinical trials, or may impose a clinical hold with respect to such product candidate, or withhold market approval for product candidates; that actual financial results may not be consistent with expectations, including that 2019 operating expenses and cash usage may not be within management's expected ranges. Please refer to the documents BioCryst files periodically with the Securities and Exchange Commission, specifically BioCrysts most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, and Current Reports on Form 8-K, all of which identify important factors that could cause the actual results to differ materially from those contained in BioCrysts projections and forward-looking statements. BCRXW Contact: John Bluth +1 919 859 7910 jbluth@biocryst.com As the stablecoin wars continue to heat up, Bitfinex is looking to bring USDT to more blockchains, announcing earlier today that it will launch its stablecoin on EOS's blockchain.The post Bitfinex is looking to launch Tether on the Lightning Network by the end of the year, and an exec says it's 'one of the coolest things' they've ever done appeared first on The Block. Bitfinex's parent company iFinex has received $1 billion in hard and soft commitments for an Initial Exchange Offering, according to a report by CoinDesk, citing a WeChat post from a Bitfinex shareholder. According to Dong Zhao, an OTC trader in China who owns Bitfinex shares, there's "a high possibility Bitfinex will not conduct a public sale" for its tokens. Zhao told CoinDesk that the exchange has received $1 billion in both hard and soft commitments for LEO, the name of Bitfinex's exchange token. Soft commitments give investors the option of backing out of the deal. This news comes after Bitfinex publicly released its white paper, detailing the inner workings of its LEO token and the token sale. Additionally, the white paper offered a glimpse at various projects Bitfinex is working on including Bitfinex Derivatives, exchange ecosystem EOSfinex, and iFinex IEO Platform. SAO PAULO, May 8 (Reuters) - Brazil's AES Tiete Energia SA , controlled by AES Corp., is still defining how it will fund the purchase of a windfarm sold by Renova Energia SA, executives told investors in a conference call on Wednesday. Vice president Clarissa Della Nina added that the company is not considering a change in the policy of paying 100 percent of AES Tiete's net income in dividend to shareholders. AES Tiete agreed on April 9 to pay 350 million reais, and assume windfarm Alto Sertao III's 998 million reais in debts, after its first offer expired in January. (Reporting by Luciano Costa Editing by Chizu Nomiyama) Britain's Prince Charles, Prince of Wales, was asked to offer his opinion on bitcoin and blockchain technology. | Source: Photo by Tolga AKMEN / AFP By CCN: Prince Charles, the heir apparent to the British throne, is a budding fan of bitcoin and blockchain. During a May 8 visit to Berlin, Germany, a crypto fan asked the Prince of Wales the following question: Prince Charles, what do you think of bitcoin? Prince Charles is in Germany this week on a four-day royal visit to honor the Royal Familys German heritage. Prince Charles: Its a very interesting development The Prince initially sounded confused and replied, Ehhh?? But when prompted by the questioner with the keywords bitcoin, blockchain, cryptocurrency, Prince Charles replied, Yes, yes! Its a very interesting development. The bitcoin enthusiast who asked the question then posted his video on Twitter, where it immediately went viral. The amusing video has scored more than 86,000 views so far. And the Twitter user, CoinDorado, was barraged with congratulations and encouraging comments. Read the full story on CCN.com. VANCOUVER, British Colombia, May 08, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Canada Carbon (the Company) (CCB:TSX-V) (BRUZF:OTC) (FF) announces that on May 7th, 2019, Michelle Lalonde at The Gazette published an article entitled "Grenville-sur-la-Rouge Fundraising to Fight Lawsuits from Vancouver Mining Company." Not having the opportunity to present Canada Carbon's perspective prior to publication, we would like to respond to some of the statements made there. First, this article reports that Mayor Arnold "will fight it till the end (...) because the health of our citizens is our responsibility". There is no evidence that the Canada Carbon Project poses any danger to residents or to water resources. On the contrary, all the hydrogeological studies that have been carried out to date show that the activities will have no impact on water resources. The mineral deposit is incapable of generating acid mine drainage, and cannot leach toxins or heavy metals. The debate is not about health but rather about the municipality's right to block a project that, at the time of its filing, was in compliance with the applicable zoning by-law. Second, the article notes that the project "will bring noise, dust, and additional traffic". According to studies to date, residents are not expected to be affected by the activities since acoustic walls will be put in place and the operating hours of many of the activities will be limited. In any case, Canada Carbon is and has always been willing to discuss with municipal officials mitigation measures that will reduce the impacts of its project. Third, the article quotes Mr. Ugo Lapointe of Mining Watch Canada as saying that the action for damages brought by Canada Carbon is a "SLAPP suit". It is worth recalling that Madam Justice Turcotte rendered a judgment on this issue on November 9th, 2018 and concluded that Canada Carbon's action in damages did not have any of the characteristics of a SLAPP action. This judgment has been appealed by the municipality and the Court of Appeal will consider the issue on May 17th, 2019. Story continues CANADA CARBON INC. R. Bruce Duncan CEO and Director Contact Information E-mail inquiries: info@canadacarbon.com P: (604) 685-6375 F: (604) 909-1163 Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS: This news release contains forward-looking statements, which relate to future events or future performance and reflect managements current expectations and assumptions. Such forward-looking statements reflect managements current beliefs and are based on assumptions made by and information currently available to the Company. Investors are cautioned that these forward looking statements are neither promises nor guarantees, and are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause future results to differ materially from those expected. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date hereof and, except as required under applicable securities legislation, the Company does not assume any obligation to update or revise them to reflect new events or circumstances. All of the forward-looking statements made in this press release are qualified by these cautionary statements and by those made in our filings with SEDAR in Canada (available at www.sedar.com ). United Legal launches a new YouTube Channel aimed at Canberrans with a personal injury claim that plans to cover Canberra Personal InjuryLawyers. The channel and the extensive video content can be found athttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCux_b642BpFRk7KK5sE0NUQ FYSHWICK, AUSTRALIA / ACCESSWIRE / May 8, 2019 / Canberrans with a personal injury claim. looking for the latest information on Canberra Personal Injury Lawyers are invited to subscribe to the all-new YouTube channel by United Legal. This new channel promises to provide expert guidance and information on Canberra Personal Injury Lawyers, on a regular basis. This new YouTube channel was created specifically with the needs of people in Canberra with a workers' compensation, motor vehicle accident, medical negligence, or other personal injury claim in mind, and United Legal welcomes input on which topics to explore. Peter Glover, Co-Founder at United Legal said: ''Our explainer videos are informative, engaging and really easy to understand. We have plans to release more videos, including videos that are both interactive and personalised. So make sure to subscribe to our channel..'' United Legal's Co-Founder goes on to say: ''The aim of the new YouTube Channel is to explain the range of personal injury types and how to make a claim for motor vehicle accidents, workplace accidents, medical negligence, public liability and product liability accidents. The more feedback we can get, the better we can serve our audience. Anybody interested in Canberra Personal Injury Lawyers and current United Legal fans and supporters, can subscribe to the YouTube channel here https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCux_b642BpFRk7KK5sE0NUQ Alternatively, they are welcome to read more on the company website at: https://www.unitedlegal.com.au Some of the planned subjects for upcoming videos include: Personal Injury Claims in Canberra, ACT The types of Personal Injury Cases and forms of potential injury and compensation claims. Worker's Compensation Claims in Canberra, ACT What you are going to, or likely to get from a worker's compensation or damages claim. Medical Negligence Malpractice Claims in Canberra, ACT Expert medical lawyers, Peter Glover, Rob Montagnino and Noman Farooq have decades of experience among them and they understand that medical negligence is not just about the mistakes medical professionals have made its about the impact it has on your life and future. Story continues The YouTube Channel launched on April 17th, new viewers can view all the latest videos here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCux_b642BpFRk7KK5sE0NUQ Further details on the channel, the direction and other information on United Legal itself can be found on their website: https://www.unitedlegal.com.au Contact Info: Name: Peter Glover Organization: United Legal Address: Unit 1/54-56 Townsville St, Fyshwick, ACT 2609, Australia Phone: +61-2-6295-2283 Website: https://www.unitedlegal.com.au SOURCE: United Legal View source version on accesswire.com: https://www.accesswire.com/544778/Canberra-Personal-Injury-Lawyers-YouTube-Channel-Launches-With-Explainer-Videos CBRE Group Inc. CBRE reported first-quarter 2019 adjusted earnings per share of 79 cents, comfortably beating the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 59. The figure also compares favorably with the prior-year quarters reported tally of 54 cents. Results indicate strong revenue growth, driven by leasing and occupier outsourcing. On a GAAP basis, first-quarter earnings per share came in at 48 cents, indicating an increase of 9.1% year over year from 44 cents. The company posted revenues of around $5.14 billion, which beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $5.10 billion. It also compares favorably with the year-ago quarters reported tally of $4.67 billion. Moreover, fee revenues were up 7% (10% in local currency) year over year to $2.4 billion, while organic fee revenues climbed 5% (8% local currency). EBITDA was up 19% (20% local currency) to $426.9 million, while adjusted EBITDA jumped 29% (31% local currency) to $450 million. Quarter in Detail Backed by solid growth in France, Greater China, Japan and the United States, the companys Advisory Services segment generated year-over-year revenue growth of 8% (11% local currency). Advisory leasing revenues increased 20% (22% local currency) year over year. There was solid demand from multiple sectors, including consumer products, energy and technology in the U.S. market, while France, Germany, India, Japan and the Netherlands drove stellar growth in International markets. Solid growth in Australia, Greater China, India, Spain, the U.K. and the United States also led to a 7% (11% local currency) year-over-year increase of Property and advisory project management revenues in the first quarter. However, capital markets revenues, which comprise both property sales and commercial mortgage origination, slipped 3% (1% local currency) globally. A lackadaisical macro environment for market-wide property sales volume in all three global regions affected the companys advisory property sales revenues. Nevertheless, backed by its ability to capitalize on the growing market for real estate outsourcing and account-based client service, Global Workplace Solutions segment reported an increase of 12% (16% local currency) in revenues. The Real Estate Investments segment (Development, Investment Management and Flexible-Space Solutions) experienced an 8% (5% local currency) decline in revenues. But, adjusted revenues that include both equity earnings and gains from real estate sales, net of controlling interests, climbed 21% (23% local currency). In-process development portfolio increased to $9.7 billion, up $0.7 billion from year-end 2018, as a result of the continued conversion of pipeline activity. Investment management assets under management (AUM) aggregated $107.2 billion, denoting an increase of $1.7 billion ($2.0 billion local currency) from year-end 2018. Liquidity CBRE Group exited first-quarter 2019 with cash and cash equivalents of around $604.9 million, down from $777.2 million as of Dec 31, 2018. Our Viewpoint CBRE Groups better-than-expected first-quarter results are encouraging. The company is expected to ride high, backed by its extensive real estate products and services offerings, improving leasing and outsourcing business, strategic in-fill acquisitions, transformational deals and healthy balance sheet. CBRE Group currently carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). You can see the complete list of todays Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here. Story continues CBRE Group, Inc. Price, Consensus and EPS Surprise CBRE Group, Inc. Price, Consensus and EPS Surprise | CBRE Group, Inc. Quote We now look forward to the earnings releases of Brookfield Asset Management BAM, Zillow Group, Inc. Z and The RMR Group Inc. RMR. While Brookfield Asset Management and Zillow Group are scheduled to report quarterly numbers on May 9, The RMR Group is slated to release earnings on May 10. 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 Brookfield Asset Management Inc (BAM) : Free Stock Analysis Report The RMR Group Inc. (RMR) : Free Stock Analysis Report Zillow Group, Inc. (Z) : Free Stock Analysis Report CBRE Group, Inc. (CBRE) : Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Zacks Investment Research Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - May 9, 2019) - Centurion Minerals Ltd. (TSXV: CTN) ("Centurion", or the "Company") wishes to update its shareholders and investors on the Company's activities. As previously announced, the Company's Ana Sofia Agri-Gypsum fertilizer Project ("Ana Sofia"), remains on standby mode while the Company's Argentine partner purses potential new sales orders in Argentina and Paraguay. Simultaneously, Centurion is continuing its review and evaluation of potential opportunities in Argentina, Uruguay and Paraguay within the cannabis and hemp industry. On a recent trip to Argentina and Uruguay, management held initial meetings with groups directly involved with the industry from an operational, legal and government oversight capacity. Meetings also included preliminary discussions with the Argentine Ministry of Agriculture in order to determine the legalities and necessary steps required to pursue a collaboration agreement with the federal government. The Company wishes to advise the investing community, that there is no guarantee of success on consummating any new strategic transaction. Share Consolidation Centurion announces that it intends to apply to the TSX Venture Exchange for approval of a consolidation of the Company's issued and outstanding share capital. The proposed consolidation will be on a basis of 1 post-consolidation common share for every 6 pre-consolidation common shares. The Company currently has 82,267,924 shares outstanding and subject to the approval and completion would result in approximately 13,711,320 post consolidation shares outstanding. The number of stock options and warrants and related exercise prices will also be adjusted in accordance with the consolidation ratio. Management and Directors believe the share consolidation is in the best interests of the Company and all stakeholders in order to facilitate and secure additional financing to maintain the Ana Sofia project as well as to pursue additional new business opportunities. Story continues Centurion's articles of incorporation authorize the board of directors to approve certain changes to the Company's capital structure, including the consolidation. As such, shareholder approval is not required. The Company does not intend to change its current trading symbol in connection with the proposed share consolidation. A Letter of Transmittal will be mailed to shareholders holding physical certificates by the Company's transfer agent (Computershare Trust Company of Canada), advising that the consolidation has taken effect and shareholders should surrender their existing (pre-consolidation) common share certificates, for new (post-consolidation) common share certificates. No fractional common shares of the Company shall be issued in connection with the consolidation and the number of common shares to be received by a shareholder shall be rounded down to the nearest whole number of common shares. The effective date of the consolidation will be disclosed in a subsequent news release. Private Placement Subject to completion of the share consolidation, Centurion intends to proceed with a non-brokered private placement for up to $2.0 million priced at $0.10/Unit. Each Unit will consist of one (post-consolidated) common share and one (post-consolidated) common share purchase warrant exercisable for 2 years and priced at $0.15. The private placement will be subject to TSX venture exchange approval. Shares for debt Centurion announces its intention to complete a share for debt transaction with current creditors and promissory note holders with the intention to convert up to $800,000 of debt to post-consolidated common shares at a price of $0.12. The share for debt transaction will be subject to Exchange approval. ABOUT CENTURION Centurion Minerals Ltd. is a Canadian-based company with an international focus on the development of agri-mineral fertilizer projects. In addition, the Company is actively pursuing related business opportunities to enhance its value and management is investigating the potential for entering the South American cannabis and related products industry. "David G. Tafel" President and CEO For Further Information Contact: David Tafel 604-484-2161 Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. This news release contains forward looking statements concerning future operations of Centurion Minerals Ltd. (the "Company"). All forward-looking statements concerning the Company's future plans and operations, including management's assessment of the Company's project expectations or beliefs may be subject to certain assumptions, risks and uncertainties beyond the Company's control. Investors are cautioned that any such statements are not guarantees of future performance and that actual performance and exploration and financial results may differ materially from any estimates or projections. Such statements include, among others: possible variations in mineralization, grade or recovery rates; actual results of current exploration activities; actual results of reclamation activities; conclusions of future economic evaluations; changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined; failure of equipment or processes to operate as anticipated; accidents and other risks of the mining industry; delays and other risks related to construction activities and operations; timing and receipt of regulatory approvals of operations; the ability of the Company and other relevant parties to satisfy regulatory requirements; the availability of financing for proposed transactions, programs and working capital requirements on reasonable terms; the ability of third-party service providers to deliver services on reasonable terms and in a timely manner; market conditions and general business, economic, competitive, political and social conditions. The Ana Sofia project has not been the subject of a feasibility study and as such there is no certainty that a potential mine will be realized or that the processing facility will be able to produce a commercially marketable product. There is a significant risk that any production from the project will not be profitable with these risks elevated by the absence of a compliant NI 43-101 feasibility study. A mine production decision that is not based on a feasibility study demonstrating economic and technical viability does not provide adequate disclosure of the increased uncertainty and specific risks of failure associated with such a production decision. The Company has undertaken market research and studies to try to mitigate these risks. The work carried out to date is of a preliminary nature to assist in the determination as to whether the mineral product is suitable for sale and if there are markets for the mineral product. General risks inherent in the Project include the reliance on available data and assumptions and judgments used in the interpretation of such data, the speculative and uncertain nature of exploration and development costs, capital requirements and the ability to obtain financing, volatility of global and local economic climates, share price volatility, estimated price volatility, changes in equity markets, exchange rate fluctuations and other risks involved in the mineral exploration and development industry. There can be no assurance that a forward-looking statement or information referenced herein will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements or information. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements or information. We undertake no obligation to reissue or update any forward-looking statements or information except as required by law. The Ana Sofia mineral resource estimate is reported in accordance with the Canadian Securities Administrators National Instrument 43-101 and has been estimated using the CIM "Estimation of Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves Best Practice Guidelines" dated November 23rd, 2003 and CIM "Definition Standards for Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves" dated May 10th, 2014. Due to the relatively wide spacing of the historical quarries and the 2016 test pits, which varies between 40 m and 300 m, the Ana Sofia 2 resource described herein is categorized entirely as an inferred mineral resource. Inferred Mineral Resources are not Mineral Reserves. Mineral resources which are not mineral reserves do not have demonstrated economic viability. There has been insufficient exploration to define the inferred resources as an indicated or measured mineral resource, however, it is reasonably expected that the majority of the Inferred Mineral Resources could be upgraded to Indicated Mineral Resources with continued exploration. There is no guarantee that any part of the mineral resources will be converted into a mineral reserve in the future. The estimate of mineral resources may be materially affected by geology, environment, permitting, legal, title, taxation, socio-political, marketing or other relevant issues. Corporate Logo To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/44675 By Jennifer Hiller HOUSTON (Reuters) - Chevron Corp abandoned its takeover bid for Anadarko Petroleum Corp on Thursday, outmaneuvered by Occidental Petroleum Corp's higher, $38 billion offer that included more than three times as much cash. With a financing assist from billionaire investor Warren Buffett, Occidental, which is one-quarter the size of Chevron, is the likely victor in a contest that again proved the allure of U.S. shale. Occidental has said it plans to shed most of Anadarko's non-shale properties in a deal that would cement its position in the Permian Basin of West Texas and New Mexico, the top U.S. shale field. Chevron declined to raise its initial offer after Occidental boosted the cash portion of its $76 per share bid and Anadarko's board deemed it a superior offer. Chevron, the No. 2 U.S. oil producer, received a $1 billion breakup fee, which it has said it will apply to a $5 billion share repurchase program. Chevron shares closed 3.1 percent higher on Thursday at $121.19 while shares of Occidental fell 6.4 percent to $56.33, the lowest in a decade. Anadarko shares fell 3.3 percent to $73.39. Chevron Chief Executive Officer Mike Wirth said the company decided at a board meeting on Wednesday to walk away from the takeover battle, even though it could have matched or beaten Occidental's offer and saw Anadarko as a strategic fit. "Make no mistake. We have the financial capacity to outbid Occidental, but we concluded that an increased offer would have eroded value to our shareholders, and it would have diminished returns on capital," Wirth said. "The bar is high. We don't have a need to do anything. We are not desperate to do a deal." Chevron's decision demonstrated strong capital discipline, said Jennifer Rowland, analyst with Edward Jones. "I am a bit surprised that they walked, but am pleased that they didnt get caught up in a bidding war with Oxy, who comes across as willing to fight to win at all costs," Rowland said. "Anadarko was a unique fit for Chevron, so I dont expect them to go on a shopping spree in the Permian." Anadarko's major assets - in U.S. shale, the Gulf of Mexico and an liquefied natural gas project in Mozambique - were seen as a logical fit for Chevron, but not something the company needed. "Chevron has no objective need to acquire Anadarko - or, for that matter, engage in any other large-scale (mergers and acquisitions)," said Pavel Molchanov, an analyst with Raymond James. Analysts said they do not expect another bidder for Anadarko to emerge. "The industry is trying to show investors more capital discipline and if another suitor comes in that would be significantly counter to most companies' strategies," analysts at RBC Capital Markets said in a note on Thursday. PERMIAN BASIN Investors have sold off shares of oil companies that increased spending on drilling instead of returning cash to shareholders. They have called for capital discipline, defined as increasing production by 4 percent a year and maintaining a 4 percent dividend. One result: The value of U.S. oil and gas mergers and acquisitions fell to a 10-year low in the first quarter as investors sold shares of companies that spent more on drilling than on buybacks and dividends. The contest for Anadarko underscored the value of its assets in the Permian Basin, the vast shale field with oil and gas deposits that can produce supplies for decades using low-cost drilling techniques. The region's soaring production has propelled U.S. oil production to 12 million barrels per day (bpd), more than that of Russia or Saudi Arabia. Anadarko said on Thursday it had signed a definitive agreement with Occidental and expects the merger to be completed in the second half of the year. The deal still faces antitrust reviews. Chevron holds 2.3 million acres in the Permian Basin and has vast mineral ownership there, which reduces its royalty rate. It expects shale production from the basin to reach 600,000 bpd by the end of next year, and 900,000 bpd by the end of 2023. Occidental outmaneuvered Chevron by gaining cash and allies. It got a $10 billion investment from Warren Buffett's Berkshire Hathaway Inc and struck a deal with French oil giant Total SA to take most of Anadarko's international assets, including a liquefied natural gas project in Mozambique. Total agreed to pay $8.8 billion for the assets once the merger goes ahead. Several Occidental investors oppose the deal, including its sixth-largest shareholder, T. Rowe Price Group Inc, because they consider it too large a risk if oil prices falter, or if Occidental cannot produce the $3.5 billion a year in cost savings it has promised. Ratings agency Moody's Investors Service said on Wednesday it likely would downgrade Occidental if it prevailed in the takeover, noting the deal would add $46 billion of debt before any sale of assets. Several investors also have criticized Occidental's decision this week to secure Anadarko's endorsement by excluding a shareholder vote on the deal. (Reporting by Shanti S Nair in Bengaluru and Jennifer Hiller in Houston; eriting by Gary McWilliams; editing by David Gregorio and G Crosse) Montrouge, May 9, 2019 2019 SHARE CAPITAL INCREASE RESERVED FOR EMPLOYEES OF THE CREDIT AGRICOLE GROUP Credit Agricole SA today announces the launch of a share offering reserved for employees of the Credit Agricole group worldwide. Credit Agricole SA will offer 170,000 Credit Agricole Group employees in 19 countries and retirees in France to subscribe to new Credit Agricole SA shares under a reserved capital increase (ACR 2019). The maximum number of shares to issue is 32 million, giving a nominal value of 96 million euros. Employees will benefit from a discount of 20% on the average opening price of the Credit Agricole SA shares from May 24 to June 20, 2019 and may subscribe from June 21 to July 3, 2019 inclusive (dates subject to the decision of Credit Agricole SA`s management). The individual maximum investment amount in this offer would be 40,000 euros. The new shares would be created on July 31, 2019, making them eligible for the dividend paid for the 2019 financial year. In the event of subscription of all the shares offered, this transaction is expected to have a maximum positive effect of 9 basis points on Credit Agricole SA`s CET1 and 5 basis points on the Group`s one. The negative effect on Credit Agricole SA`s earnings per share would be less than 1% and negligible on the net assets per share. The ACR 2019 is part of the policy promoting employees` participation to the Group`s financial performance and the gradual increase in the employees` share in Credit Agricole SA`s capital through reserved offers. The characteristics of the offer are detailed in the following pages. PURPOSE OF THE OFFER The purpose of the offer reserved for employees described in this information document ("the Offer") is to enable employees of the Credit Agricole group to be more closely associated with the growth of the Company. SHARE ISSUER Credit Agricole SA (hereinafter "Credit Agricole SA" or the "Company") a French Societe Anonyme with an authorized capital of EUR 8 599 311 468 having its registered office at 12, place des Etats-Unis - 92127 Montrouge Cedex, France, and registered in the trade registry (Registre du commerce et des societes) of Nanterre under number 754 608 416. Information relating to the Company is available on its website at (www.credit-agricole.com), and in particular, in the registration document available on this website. Story continues CONTEXT OF THE OFFER - SECURITIES OFFERED The subscription of shares is proposed in the context of the French law company savings plans (plans d`epargne d`entreprise) established by the French companies which participate in the Offer and the international group company savings plan established under French law within the companies of the Scope of the Offer internationally. The Offer is made on the basis to the Company`s shareholders` authorisation given by the 38th resolution of the extraordinary general meeting of shareholders of May 16, 2018 and decision of the Company`s Board of Directors of February 13, 2019 on the principle of an issuance of shares at a discount for the benefit of the beneficiaries defined below and the main features of the Offer. The Board of Directors delegated to the Chief Executive Officer and Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the Company the powers necessary for the implementation of the Offer. The shares that the employees of the Credit Agricole group may subscribe under the Offer (the "Shares) are ordinary shares with a nominal value of EUR 3 and of the same class as the existing ordinary shares. The new Shares will carry current dividend rights. They are subject to a lock-up period described in paragraph 6 below. ADMISSION TO TRADING ON A REGULATED MARKET The admission of the new Shares to trading on the market of Euronext Paris will be requested upon their issuance, scheduled on July 31st, 2019. Upon admission to the market of Euronext Paris, the new Shares will be entirely fungible with the shares of the Company already listed on such market and traded at the same trading line under ISIN code number FR000045072. MAXIMUM NUMBER OF ISSUABLE SHARES Pursuant to the decision of the Board of Directors of the Company, 32 million shares can be issued in the context of the Offer, equal to the total nominal value of 96 million euros. SUBSCRIPTION TERMS Beneficiaries of the offer: The beneficiaries of the Offer are employees having a seniority of more than 3 months on the last day of the subscription period, acquired consecutively or not since January 1, 2018, with the entities comprised in the Scope of the Offer, subject to applicable local regulations, as well as eligible retirees of French entities (the "Employees"). The "Scope of the Offer" includes: the Company; the entities and groups which are comprised in the scope of consolidated accounts of the Company pursuant to Article L. 233-16 of the French Commercial Code ( Code de Commerce ), at the latest on the day before the opening of the subscription period, the scope of implementation of the offering being extended to entities having their registered office (i) in France or (ii) Germany, Egypt, Spain, United States of America, Hong Kong, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Luxembourg, Morocco, Monaco, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, United Kingdom, Serbia, Singapore and Switzerland, provided they are held directly or indirectly at least 50% by the Company and subject to legal and tax provisions applicable in the countries concerned; the Caisses regionales de Credit Agricole Mutuel ; the companies controlled by the Caisses regionales de Credit Agricole Mutuel , whether directly or indirectly, the scope of implementation of the offering being extended to entities having their registered office in (i) France and (ii) Spain, Luxembourg and Switzerland, subject to the legal and tax provisions applicable in the countries concerned; the entities controlled by the Company and/or the Caisses regionales de Credit Agricole Mutuel pursuant to Article L. 225-180 of the French Commercial Code (Code de Commerce) and Articles L. 3344-1 and L. 3344-2 of the French Labor Code (Code du Travail) having their registered office in France; subject to the condition that (i) the entities listed above have set-up a company savings plan (plan d`epargne entreprise) or have joined one of company savings plans, group savings plans (plan d`epargne groupe) or the international group savings plan (PEEGI) allowing participation in the Offer and (ii) applicable local rules and regulations are observed. Procedures for subscription: Employees participating in the Offer implemented in France subscribe for Shares through a Fonds Commun de Placement d`Entreprise (employee shareholding investment vehicle, or "FCPE") and Employees participating in the Offer implemented in other countries of the Scope of the Offer subscribe for Shares directly. Subscription price: The subscription price will be equal to 80% of the average of opening prices of the Credit Agricole SA share over the 20 trading days prior to the decision by the Chief Executive Officer or the Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the Company, acting upon delegation of the Board of Directors, establishing the opening date of the subscription period. In accordance with the indicative time schedule, such decision would be taken on June 21, 2019. The Subscription Price will be notified to Employees via Intranet of companies participating to the Offer and on the offering website. Maximum subscription amount: The total maximum subscription in the Offer is set at EUR 40,000. Furthermore, the total annual amount of the investment in savings plans is capped at 25% of the gross annual income (and 10% of the net annual salary for 2018 for subscribers in Morocco). The minimum investment amount is set at EUR 15 for subscription made through the FCPE in France and to the subscription price of one Share for direct subscriptions in other countries. Lock-up of the shares or the FCPE units subscribed in the context of the Offer: The subscribers must hold the Shares or the FCPE units subscribed in the context of the Offer until May 31, 2024 (inclusive), unless occurrence of an early release event and subject to a longer holding period provided for in certain countries taking into account legal and tax provisions applicable locally. Exercise of voting rights attached to shares: When shares are subscribed through an FCPE, voting rights are exercised by the unitholders or by the FCPE Supervisory Board (conseil de surveillance), in accordance with the FCPE regulations. With regard to the Shares subscribed for directly, the voting rights will be exercised individually by the employees concerned. PROCEDURE IN CASE OF OVER-SUBSCRIPTION The amount of individual subscriptions may be reduced if the total of the subscription commitments received exceeds the maximum amount set for the capital increase as indicated in Paragraph 5 above. These subscription commitments will be reduced in accordance with the following rules: the individual subscription commitments will be progressively reduced down starting with the highest subscription commitments, until the subscription threshold after reduction is reached (the "Reduction Threshold") so that the total of the individual subscription commitments is less than or equal to the maximum amount offered; as the result, all subscription commitments that are less than or equal to the Reduction Threshold will be served entirely and subscription commitments that exceed the Reduction Threshold will be served up to this threshold; in the case of French subscribers, the possible subscription reduction is first deducted from the portion of the subscription which is financed by way of bank debit, and then on the sums resulting from a transfer of employee savings. Moreover, a specific ceiling is applied to subscriptions in certain countries, especially the United States, in order to take into account the local tax and legal provisions. The reduction procedure above shall also apply if the subscription request in these countries exceeds their specific ceiling. INDICATIVE TIME SCHEDULE OF THE OFFER Setting of the subscription price for Shares: scheduled for June 21, 2019. Subscription period for Shares: scheduled from June 21, 2019 to July 3, 2019 Settlement/delivery of the Shares: scheduled for July 31, 2019 This time schedule is indicative and may be altered due to events affecting the conditions of implementation of the transaction. LEGAL NOTICE Further information on Credit Agricole SA, the Offer and the Shares offered, can be obtained on the Company website (www.credit-agricole.com). The Offer will be implemented only in countries where such an offering has been registered or notified to the competent local authorities and/or following an approval of a prospectus by the competent local authorities or in consideration of exemption from the requirement to prepare a prospectus or a registration or notification of the Offer. More generally, the Offer will only be conducted in countries where all procedures of registering and/or notifications have been completed and the necessary authorizations have been obtained. The Company may decide not to complete the Offer, or suspending or postponing it in the event that market conditions do not allow for the Offer to be carried out under optimal conditions. This information document is for informative purposes and should not be considered as a form of canvassing or solicitation for the participation of Employees in the Offer. Furthermore, neither Credit Agricole SA nor any employer is giving investment advice with respect to this Offer. Investing is a personal decision that must be made by the employee, taking into account diversification of its portfolio. CONTACT FOR THE BENEFICIARIES OF THE OFFER For any questions regarding the Offer, beneficiaries may contact their Human Resources manager and/or any other person specified in the documentation relating to the Offer provided to beneficiaries. This document is a description of the capital increase reserved for employees of the Credit Agricole group, established under Articles 212-4, 5 and 212-5, 6 of the General Regulations of the Autorite des marches financiers, Article 19 of instruction DOC-2016-04 of the Autorite des marches financiers, and article 1.5(h) of the Prospectus Regulation (EU) 2017/1129 of June 14, 2017. Credit Agricole S.A. press contacts Charlotte de Chavagnac + 33 (0)1 57 72 11 17 charlotte.dechavagnac@credit-agricole-sa.fr Individual shareholders contacts Toll-free number (from France): 0 800 000 777 Credit-agricole-sa@relations-actionnaires.com All our press releases are available at: www.credit-agricole.com Credit_Agricole Credit Agricole Group creditagricole_sa 2019 SHARE CAPITAL INCREASE RESERVED FOR EMPLOYEES This announcement is distributed by West Corporation on behalf of West Corporation clients. The issuer of this announcement warrants that they are solely responsible for the content, accuracy and originality of the information contained therein. Source: CREDIT AGRICOLE SA via GlobeNewswire HUG#2243778 As technology develops, VR is starting to be used across a wide range of industries, from aviation and defense to autos. Employees at Ford are using a 3D virtual reality tool that enables them to work on designs with colleagues thousands of miles away. Employees at Ford F have started to use a 3D virtual reality (VR) tool that enables them to work on designs with colleagues remotely in real time. The technology has been developed by Gravity Sketch, in collaboration with Ford. It sees workers wear headsets and use controllers to "draw, rotate, expand and compress a 3D sketch." A feature in the system, called Co-Creation, allows designers around the world to work on and evaluate designs in real time while being in different offices. The Gravity Sketch platform negates the need for an initial 2D design process, allowing designers to work with a 3D model from the start. In a statement earlier this week Michael Smith, design manager at Ford, said that the Co-Creation feature added "more voices to the conversation in a virtual environment, which results in more efficient design work that may help accelerate a vehicle program's development." Ford said that designers in five Ford studios around the world were experimenting with Gravity Sketch, looking at both "workflow feasibility" and capabilities relating to "real-time co-creation and collaboration." As technology develops, VR is starting to be used across a wide range of industries. In April 2019, for example, it was announced that Qatar Airways had partnered with Rolls-Royce RR.-GB to trial a VR training tool. The technology, which uses HTC Vive equipment, has been designed to give engineers virtual refresher training with Rolls-Royce's biggest engine, the Trent XWB. A few months earlier, in February, the British Army awarded a 1 million ($1.3 million) contract to a software developer to "explore how virtual reality can be integrated into soldier training." The Ministry of Defence said the pilot scheme would look to test a range of virtual reality applications. These include high resolution virtual reality headsets; avatars that can be customized to replicate facial features and body shapes; and technology that offers data capture and analysis to help soldiers "better understand their own performance." More From CNBC (Adds details on the deal, background, share movement) May 8 (Reuters) - U.S. communications infrastructure provider Zayo Group Holdings Inc said on Wednesday it agreed to be sold to investment firms Digital Colony Partners LP and EQT for about $8.2 billion in cash. The deal value of $35 per share is at a premium of 14.3 percent to Zayo's closing price on Tuesday. Including Zayo's debt of $5.9 billion, the deal is valued at more than $14 billion. Zayo operates a 209,214 km fiber network in the United States and Europe to connect data centers and serves wireless and landline phone companies. It stands to benefit from rising demand for bandwidth in their markets, driven by cloud computing and streaming. In March, activist hedge fund Starboard Value LP has urged Zayo to consider a sale after taking a 4 percent stake in the company. Reuters exclusively reported last month about the potential deal. Boulder, Colorado-based Zayo said in November it would break itself up into two companies. However, in February, the company said it was not in its best interest to pursue a public spinoff as part of its strategic review. The company had earlier rejected acquisition offers, including from a private equity consortium comprising Blackstone Group LP, Stonepeak Infrastructure Partners LP, KKR & Co Inc, I Squared Capital, Charlesbank Capital Partners and GTCR Ltd. Zayo will become a private company after the deal closes in the first half of 2020. Shares of Zayo were up 9 percent at $33.40 in premarket trading. (Reporting by Supantha Mukherjee in Bengaluru; Editing by James Emmanuel) Dillard's, Inc. DDS displays mixed outcomes when it comes to quarterly releases. The companys past quarters reflect positive earnings and sales beat trends. However, this departmental store chain is likely to continue witnessing a year-over-year decline in the bottom line when it reports first-quarter fiscal 2019 numbers. In the last reported quarter, this Arkansas-based company posted an earnings beat despite a year-over-year decline. However, the company delivered average four-quarter positive earnings surprise of 11.2%. Coming to projections for the quarter under review, we note that the Zacks Consensus Estimate for the companys earnings is pegged at $2.70, suggesting a drop of 6.6% from $2.89 earned in the year-ago period. Notably, estimates have witnessed a downtrend in the past 30 days. For revenues, the consensus mark stands at $1,484 million, indicating nearly 0.4% decline from the year-ago quarter. Dillard's, Inc. Price and EPS Surprise Dillard's, Inc. Price and EPS Surprise | Dillard's, Inc. Quote Factors That Hold the Key to Dillard's Performance Dillards positive surprise history is well supported by a robust comparable store sales (comps) trend as well as strong performances across most categories. The company has been witnessing higher comps, backed by exclusive merchandise offerings and robust store-growth efforts. It is also benefiting from growth opportunities in the e-commerce business, which should aid top and bottom-line outcomes in the upcoming quarterly release. On the storefront, the company will gain from enhancing brand relations, focusing on in-trend categories and store remodels, and rewarding store personnel. Meanwhile, some of the strategies to boost the e-commerce business include the enhancement of merchandise assortments and effective inventory management. These efforts are poised to improve merchandise inventories in the to-be-reported quarter, which should aid margins as well. However, increased markdowns have been denting the companys margins and bottom-line growth. The persistence of these trends remains a threat to the bottom line in the fiscal first quarter. Stiff competition in the industry remains an added concern. What Does the Zacks Model Unveil? Our proven model predicts that Dillard's is likely to beat estimates in first-quarter fiscal 2019. This is because a stock needs to have both a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), 2 (Buy) or 3 (Hold) and a positive Earnings ESP for this to happen. You can uncover the best stocks to buy or sell before theyre reported with our Earnings ESP Filter. Dillard's Zacks Rank #3 and an Earnings ESP of +3.95% make us reasonably confident of an earnings beat in the first quarter of fiscal 2019. 3 Stocks With Favorable Combination Here are three companies that you may want to consider as our model shows that these have the right combination of elements to post an earnings beat: The Childrens Place Inc. PLCE has an Earnings ESP of +9.96% and a Zacks Rank #1. You can see the complete list of todays Zacks #1 Rank stocks here. Target Corp. TGT has an Earnings ESP of +0.42% and a Zacks Rank #2. Dollar Tree Inc. DLTR has an Earnings ESP of +0.51% and a Zacks Rank #2. This Could Be the Fastest Way to Grow Wealth in 2019 Research indicates one sector is poised to deliver a crop of the best-performing stocks you'll find anywhere in the market. Breaking news in this space frequently creates quick double- and triple-digit profit opportunities. These companies are changing the world and owning their stocks could transform your portfolio in 2019 and beyond. Recent trades from this sector have generated +98%, +119% and +164% gains in as little as 1 month. Click here to see these 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 Children's Place, Inc. (The) (PLCE) : Free Stock Analysis Report Target Corporation (TGT) : Free Stock Analysis Report Dollar Tree, Inc. (DLTR) : Free Stock Analysis Report Dillard's, Inc. (DDS) : Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Zacks Investment Research As the citizens of the European Union (EU) prepare for elections that will take place between 23 and 26 May, the Union's leaders will meet in Sibiu, Romania to discuss the development of the Union over the next five years. A new set of European Commissioners will be appointed following the elections, including a new president of the European Commission (EC). The EC is the EU body that proposes new legislation, which is later approved by the European Parliament, which will be elected in the May elections, and the Council of Ministers, composed of ministers from each of the 27 member states. There will be no British representation at the Sibiu meeting due to the country's imminent departure from the EU. However, the United Kingdom will hold European Parliamentary elections, a legal requirement for members, because it has not left the EU by the due date. But the U.K. will not have a vote on the appointment of commissioners. In addition, the U.K. will not take part in the discussions on the future of the EU as its member states debate the priorities for the coming political cycle. At the meeting, member state leaders will seek to find a united way forward for the EU's 27 nations and their citizens. According to a paper produced by the EC, "The Future of Europe: Europe in May 2019 Preparing for a more united, stronger and more democratic Union in an increasingly uncertain world," the "changing economies and worlds of work, changing climate and changing geopolitics are already shaping our Union and will be major drivers for our future. These must be at the forefront of leaders' minds when they decide, in the light of the outcome of the European Parliament elections, on our level of ambition and our priorities for the next five years and beyond." High on the list of priorities will be discussions on four key areas: digitalization; climate change and the environment; an increasingly multi-polar world; and demography and society. Within these four broad discussions will be more focused debates on the development of transport and communications systems, increased investment in research and development of environmental technologies and the EU's need to catch up with the digital revolution that it says is dominated by the U.S. and China. Story continues There also will be discussions on new tax regulations that meet the requirements of the digital age, and other policies ranging from a more flexible regulatory framework for transport, a budgetary instrument for convergence and competitiveness among other social policies and investment decisions. Budgets will be agreed and set next year and will be implemented for a seven-year period from 2021 to 2027. Monies will be allocated for specific purposes as agreed by the member states during the coming discussions. Image sourced from Pixabay The post EU to set agenda for next five-year plan appeared first on FreightWaves. See more from Benzinga 2019 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved. NEWS RELEASE Paris: EUR EURO RESSOURCES REPORTS EARNINGS FOR THE FIRST QUARTER ENDED MARCH 31, 2019 Paris, France, May 8, 2019: EURO Ressources S.A. (EURO or the Company) (Paris: EUR) today announced its unaudited condensed interim financial statements prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) for the first quarter ended March 31, 2019. These unaudited condensed interim financial statements were approved by the Board of Directors on May 8, 2019. All financial amounts are expressed in Euros ( or euros) unless otherwise specified. First quarter ended March 31, 2019 compared to the same period in 2018 Under IFRS, EURO recorded a net profit of 3.6 million (0.057 per share) for the first quarter of 2019 compared to 3.9 million (0.063 per share) for the first quarter of 2018. Revenues were 5.9 million during the first quarter of 2019, an increase of 5% compared to 5.6 million for the first quarter of 2018. Revenues were mainly attributable to the Rosebel royalty of 6.0 million (first quarter of 2018: 5.5 million). The increase in revenues was mainly due to the weakened euro (0.4 million), and higher gold production with 71,536 ounces in the first quarter of 2019 compared to 68,793 ounces during the same period of 2018 (0.2 million), partially offset by the lower average gold price during the first quarter of 2019 of US$1,304 per ounce of gold compared to US$1,329 per ounce of gold during the first quarter of 2018 (0.1 million). During the first quarter of 2019, other royalties from third parties in French Guiana included the reversal of a previously over estimated royalty receivable of -0.1 million (first quarter of 2018: revenues of 0.1 million). EURO recorded an income tax expense of 2.3 million during the first quarter of 2019 compared to 1.6 million during the first quarter of 2018. The increase was mainly due to translation adjustments. Liquidity and capital resources Story continues Cash at March 31, 2019 totaled 31.4 million as compared to 25.7 million at December 31, 2018. The increase was mainly due to cash flow from operating activities. Marketable securities EURO holds marketable securities related to mining companies which are part of a volatile market. Share market price exposure risk is related to the fluctuation in the market price of marketable securities. Under IFRS, investments in marketable securities are recorded at fair value with changes in fair value recorded in other comprehensive income. As at March 31, 2019, marketable securities comprised 19,095,345 shares of Columbus Gold Corp. (Columbus) (11.3% of outstanding shares; December 31, 2018: 12.0%) and 3,819,069 shares of Allegiant Gold Ltd. (Allegiant) (6.3% of outstanding shares; December 31, 2018: 6.3%). During the quarter ended March 31, 2019, the Company recognized an unrealized loss under IFRS following the decrease of the fair value of these marketable securities. Under IFRS, this loss of 0.2 million was recorded in other comprehensive income (5.9 million during the quarter ended March 31, 2018). Royalty assets As at March 31, 2019, the Companys impairment review indicated that the facts and circumstances did not represent an indication of potential impairment. Following the impairment test related to the Paul Isnard royalty asset performed at December 31, 2018, the Company maintained the same assumption that the various authorization and permits would be granted under conditions that will allow the Compagnie Miniere Montagne dOr to go on with this project. This assumption is notably based on the press release issued on November 16, 2018 by Compagnie Miniere Montagne dOr confirming its decision to go on with the project with a number of changes and improvements. Per Columbus news release on April 23, 2019, the French National Commission of Public Debate designated, in January 2019, two guarantors responsible for the participation of the public in the project development up until the opening of the public inquiry for the permit applications. The Montagne d'Or joint-venture is currently preparing tenders and scheduling for complementary studies for committed project modifications. As a result, there were no impairment charges recorded in the statement of earnings for the first quarter ended March 31, 2019. Outlook The Rosebel royalty production is anticipated to be between 323,000 ounces and 339,000 ounces in 2019. In 2019, the Rosebel royalty is expected to provide revenues to the Company of between approximately 24.5 million and 25.7 million (US$28.2 million and US$29.6 million). These pre-tax numbers assume a gold price of US$1,225 per ounce and an exchange rate of 1 for US$1.15. The impact of changes in the average gold price on EUROs annual revenues, based on an estimated production of 331,000 ounces, would be approximately US$3.2 million for each US$100 per ounce change in the gold price. The impact of a 5% change in the average foreign exchange rate on EUROs annual revenues would be approximately 1.3 million. EUROs cash flow is expected to be primarily affected by income tax payments. About EURO EURO is a French company whose main assets are a royalty on the Rosebel gold mine production in Suriname (the Rosebel royalty), a royalty on the Paul Isnard concessions, and marketable securities. The Rosebel gold mine is 95%-owned by IAMGOLD Corporation (IAMGOLD), and is operated by IAMGOLD. The royalty on the Paul Isnard concessions is a net smelter returns production royalty on future production of the Paul Isnard concessions and an area of interest surrounding the concessions in French Guiana, owned under a joint venture agreement between Columbus Gold Corp. and Nord Gold SE. EURO has approximately 62.5 million shares outstanding. At March 31, 2019, IAMGOLD France S.A.S. (IAMGOLD France), an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of IAMGOLD, owned approximately 89.71% of all issued outstanding shares of EURO. Per the regulation (Article L.233-7 of the French Commercial Code), IAMGOLD France declared it had exceeded, on September 23, 2018, the threshold of 90% of the voting rights of EURO. As at March 31, 2019, IAMGOLD France held 56,058,191 shares representing 112,116,382 voting rights or 94.25% of the voting rights of EURO. This threshold crossing results from a double voting rights allocation. Statements Regarding Forward-Looking Information: Some statements in this news release are forward-looking statements. Investors are cautioned that forward-looking statements are inherently uncertain and involve risks and uncertainties. There can be no assurance that future developments affecting the Company will be those anticipated by management. Not for distribution to United States newswire services or for dissemination in the United States. The securities referred to herein have not been registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the Securities Act), and may not be offered or sold in the United States or to a U.S. person absent registration, or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements of the Securities Act. Additional information relating to EURO Ressources S.A. is available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. Further requests for information should be addressed to: Benjamin Little Directeur-General Tel: +1 416 933 4954 Email: blittle@euroressources.net Line Lacroix Directeur-General Delegue Tel: +1 450 677 0040 Email : llacroix@euroressources.net Attachment The German share price index DAX graph is pictured at the stock exchange in Frankfurt, Germany, May 7, 2019. REUTERS/Staff By Aaron Saldanha and Medha Singh (Reuters) - European shares rose on Wednesday from the previous session's more than one-month closing low on positive sentiment underpinned by easing fears over the path ahead for U.S.-China trade ties and strong results from some German firms. Resolute earnings from Siemens and Wirecard aided sentiment, while the White House said China has indicated it wants to strike a trade deal. The pan-European STOXX 600 index rose 0.2 percent, lifting off Thursday's more than one-month closing low. Germany's trade-sensitive DAX gained 0.7 percent, while French stocks tacked on 0.4 percent. "All we need to know is how the next 48 hours unfold with China's vice premier in Washington for talks," said Craig Erlam, senior market analyst at Oanda. Chinese Vice Premier Liu He will travel to Washington on Thursday for two days of trade talks. As it currently stands, U.S. tariffs on $200 billion worth of Chinese imports will rise to 25 percent from 10 percent effective Friday, according to a notice posted to the Federal Register. "I'm still under the belief that a deal is the default and that's what people are expecting," Oanda's Erlam said. Siemens posted better-than-expected quarterly earnings and said it would spin off its faltering gas-turbines business. Investors responded by sending the German firm's shares 4.6 percent higher, which helped industrial stocks tack on 0.7 percent. Payments firm Wirecard raised its 2019 outlook, as it sought to shake off allegations of fraud and false accounting to post a 40.7 percent rise in core profits in the first quarter. Wirecard shares climbed 4.9 percent to a more than three month closing peak after its chief executive said the payments firm is mulling over buying back shares with some of the proceeds of a 900 million euro convertible bond that Softbank Group Corp will buy. Signs of Brexit-linked uncertainty capped sentiment towards London-traded stocks. The FTSE 100 index recovered from early losses to add 0.2 percent, amid a half-percent slide in the pound. Exporters on the benchmark broadly benefit from a softer pound which swells their overseas earnings' value. Story continues Bank stocks moved in the other direction, extending losses as they slipped 0.3 percent. Travel and leisure stocks fell 1.3 percent as Deutsche Lufthansa AG traded ex-dividend, down 4.4 percent. Additionally, Berenberg cut its target price on the airline to 21.50 euros per share from 22 euros. (Reporting by Aaron Saldanha and Medha Singh in Bengaluru; Editing by Andrew Cawthorne) VIENNA (Reuters) - Iran's president on Wednesday threatened to reduce his country's implementation of its nuclear commitments under its landmark 2015 deal with major powers. That deal, signed by the United States, Russia, China, France, Britain and Germany, lifted international sanctions against Iran in exchange for restrictions on its nuclear activities. The United States withdrew from the deal a year ago and re-imposed its sanctions. The deal's restrictions were aimed at extending the time Iran would need to produce a nuclear bomb, if it chose to, to a year from roughly 2-3 months. The United States and the U.N. nuclear watchdog believe Iran had a nuclear weapons programme that it abandoned. Tehran denies ever having had one. Below are some of the key restrictions imposed by the nuclear deal, the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action. URANIUM ENRICHMENT LEVEL The biggest obstacle to producing nuclear weapons is obtaining enough fissile material - weapons-grade highly enriched uranium or plutonium - for the bomb's core. The deal caps the level of purity to which Iran can enrich uranium hexafluoride, the feedstock for centrifuges, at 3.67 percent, far below the 90 percent of weapons grade. It is also well below the 20 percent level to which Iran enriched uranium before the deal. The 3.67 percent cap lasts 15 years. ENRICHMENT CAPACITY Iran has two vast enrichment sites, at Natanz and Fordow. Much of Natanz is deep underground and Fordow is buried inside a mountain, which is widely believed to protect them from aerial bombardment. The deal allows Iran to continue enrichment at Natanz but with constraints. It turns Fordow into a "nuclear, physics and technology centre" where centrifuges are used for purposes other than enrichment, like producing stable isotopes https://www.iaea.org/topics/nuclear-science/isotopes/stable-isotopes. The JCPOA also: - Slashes the number of centrifuges installed in Iran to roughly 6,000 from around 19,000 before the deal https://www.iaea.org/sites/default/files/gov-2015-34.pdf Story continues - Only allows Iran to produce enriched uranium with its first-generation IR-1 centrifuges - Allows Iran to use small numbers of more advanced centrifuges for research, but without accumulating enriched uranium, for 10 years URANIUM STOCK Caps Iran's stock of low-enriched uranium at 300 kg of uranium hexafluoride enriched to 3.67 percent or its equivalent for 15 years. It produced tonnes before the deal, and any excess enriched uranium was either downblended to the level of natural uranium or shipped out of the country in exchange for natural uranium. The United States said in 2015 that the deal reduced Iran's stockpile of enriched uranium by 98 percent, to less than the amount needed for one weapon from enough for about 10 previously. CUTTING OFF THE PLUTONIUM TRACK Iran was further away from being able to produce a weapon with plutonium than with uranium. It was building a heavy-water reactor at Arak that could eventually have produced spent fuel from which plutonium could be separated. Under the JCPOA: - The core of that reactor has been removed and filled with concrete to make it unusable - The reactor is being redesigned so as to "minimise the production of plutonium and not to produce weapon-grade plutonium in normal operation" - All spent fuel from Arak will be shipped out of Iran, for the reactor's lifetime. - Iran commits not to engage in reprocessing or reprocessing research activities for 15 years. - Iran can continue to produce heavy water, used as a moderator in reactors like Arak, but its stock is capped around 130 tonnes. It has previously shipped excess amounts out of the country for storage or sold them. This restriction lasts 15 years. MORE INTRUSIVE OVERSIGHT The JCPOA: - Requires Iran to provisionally apply the International Atomic Energy Agency's Additional Protocol - which grants the agency wide-ranging inspection powers - and "subsequently seek ratification and entry into force". - Grants U.N. nuclear inspectors daily access to Natanz and Fordow for 15 years. - Says the deal's signatories must vet Iran's purchases of nuclear or dual-use equipment. - Bans Iran from carrying out a range of activities that could contribute to making a nuclear bomb, such as computer simulations of a nuclear explosion or designing certain multi-point detonation systems. In some cases, those activities can be carried out with the other signatories' approval. (Reporting by Francois Murphy) First Quarter Net Sales of $465 Million; Diluted EPS (Loss) of $(0.25) Provides Second Quarter and Updates Annual Fiscal 2019 Guidance RICHARDSON, Texas, May 08, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Fossil Group, Inc. (FOSL) (the Company or Fossil Group) today reported its financial results for the first quarter ended March 30, 2019. The Company reported net income (loss) for the first quarter of fiscal 2019 of $(12.2) million compared to $(48.3) million for the first quarter of fiscal 2018. Diluted earnings (loss) per share were $(0.25), as compared to $(0.99) for the first quarter of fiscal 2018. Diluted earnings (loss) per share for the first quarter of fiscal 2019 included a gain on sale of intellectual property to Google of $0.33 per diluted share and restructuring charges of $0.16 per diluted share. The first quarter of fiscal 2018 included restructuring charges of $0.35 per diluted share. Currencies, including both the translation impact on operating earnings and the impact of foreign currency hedging contracts, unfavorably impacted earnings (loss) per share by $0.08. Kosta Kartsotis, Chairman and CEO stated: We began fiscal 2019 reporting sales and earnings that exceeded our expectations. Given the ongoing disruptions in our category, we continue to plan our business conservatively but are operating with a sense of urgency to transform our sales channels and to increase product innovation across our categories. While first quarter sales declined in total, we delivered a solid performance in Asia, with double-digit growth in China and India; our e-commerce sales were positive; and in connected, FOSSIL watch sales increased with particular strength in the Americas region. We are looking forward to the launch of our Puma and BMW watch offerings and are pleased to have renewed our licensing agreement with DKNY. We've also renewed our license agreement with Tory Burch and are excited about the future of this partnership. We remain confident that our operating platform, brand portfolio, strong innovation and powerful partnerships will enable us to deliver on our objective of long term profitable growth. We have begun implementation of our New World Fossil 2.0 initiative, Transform To Grow, to unlock more operational efficiencies and reinvest in digital and consumer facing activities. Story continues Operating Results Compared to the first quarter of fiscal 2018, foreign currency fluctuations decreased the Companys first quarter fiscal 2019 reported net sales by $17.5 million and decreased operating income by $3.2 million. The discussion of the Companys net sales is presented on a GAAP basis and in constant dollars and reflects regional performance based on sales in all channels within the geographic location. The following table provides a summary of net sales performance, on both a reported and constant currency basis, for the first quarter of fiscal 2019 compared to the fiscal 2018 first quarter (in millions, except percentage data). First Quarter 2019 2018 Growth (Decline) Amounts as Reported Amounts as Reported Dollars as Reported (1) Constant Currency Dollars (2) Percentage as Reported (1) Percentage Constant Currency (2) Americas $ 190 $ 249 $ (59 ) $ (57 ) (24 )% (23 )% Europe 153 202 (49 ) (38 ) (24 ) (19 ) Asia 117 118 (1 ) 5 (1 ) 4 Corporate 5 5 4 Total net sales $ 465 $ 569 $ (104 ) $ (86 ) (18 )% (15 )% Watches $ 366 $ 448 $ (82 ) $ (67 ) (18 )% (15 )% Leathers 54 69 (15 ) (14 ) (22 ) (20 ) Jewelry 31 42 (11 ) (9 ) (25 ) (22 ) Other 14 10 4 4 33 38 Total net sales $ 465 $ 569 $ (104 ) $ (86 ) (18 )% (15 )% (1) Reported GAAP amounts include impacts from currency. (2) Eliminates the effect of currency changes in fiscal 2019 to give investors a better understanding of the underlying trends within the business. See constant currency financial information at the end of this release for more information. First quarter fiscal 2019 worldwide net sales decreased $103.9 million or 18% and $86.4 million in constant currency (a 15% decline) compared to the first quarter of fiscal 2018. Watches declined in the Americas and Europe and increased moderately in Asia. Geographically, sales declines in the U.S. drove the decrease in the Americas. In Europe, on a constant currency basis, sales across the Eurozone and in distributor markets in Eastern Europe and the Middle East declined, with the greatest declines in Germany, France and the U.K. In Asia, sales increases in China, India, Hong Kong and South Korea were partially offset by moderate sales declines in Australia, Japan and Taiwan. Global retail comps for the first quarter of fiscal 2019 were (9%) as compared to the first quarter of fiscal 2018, with declines across all product categories and regions, largely driven by the Company's outlet stores. Global direct e-commerce sales continued growth in the first quarter of fiscal 2019. During the first quarter of fiscal 2019, gross margin increased 280 basis points to 53.3%, driven by decreased off-price sales mix with improved margins, favorable region and product mix from higher margin Asia sales and lower promotional activity and markdowns, as well as benefits generated by the Company's New World Fossil ("NWF") margin improvement initiatives. These increases were partially offset by unfavorable factory cost absorption on lower sales volumes. Additionally, gross margin was unfavorably impacted by approximately 50 basis points due to currency movements. During the first quarter of fiscal 2019, the Companys operating expenses were $267.9 million, including $10.2 million of restructuring costs, primarily related to employee costs, professional services and a warehouse closure as compared to $21.3 million of restructuring costs in the prior fiscal year first quarter. Selling, general and administrative expenses decreased $37.0 million as compared to the first quarter of fiscal 2018, primarily as a result of lower store expenses given the significant number of store closures since the first quarter of last year, corporate and regional infrastructure reductions driven by the NWF initiatives and the favorable currency effects on expenses of a stronger dollar. Operating loss for the first quarter of fiscal 2019 was $19.9 million as compared to an operating loss of $28.3 million in the first quarter of fiscal 2018. Operating loss improved $8.4 million in the first quarter of fiscal 2019 driven by reduced operating expenses and increased gross profit margin, partially offset by lower sales and an unfavorable impact from currency changes. During the first quarter of fiscal 2019, interest expense decreased $2.6 million to $8.1 million. Other income (expense) changed favorably by $27.7 million to $25.8 million, primarily due to a $21.6 million gain on sale of intellectual property to Google and net foreign currency gains compared to net losses in the prior fiscal year first quarter. Income tax expenses were $9.6 million in the first quarter of fiscal 2019 and included the recognition of deferred tax asset valuation allowances. The Companys effective income tax rate in the first quarter of fiscal 2019 was (446.1)%, compared to (16.3)% for the first quarter of fiscal 2018. The higher effective tax rate in the fiscal 2019 first quarter as compared to the prior year quarter was primarily due to a higher level of foreign income which increased the tax expense on a lower overall pre-tax loss. Guidance Over the next several years, Fossil Group will continue to transform the Companys business model to address changes in consumer behaviors and their purchases of traditional watches and connected devices, as well as jewelry and leathers. During the Companys ongoing transformation project, it believes the following operating metrics are the most appropriate performance measures: net sales, gross margin, operating expenses, operating margin, other income (expense), interest expense and income (loss) before income taxes. The Company is providing guidance on a GAAP basis. For comparison purposes, the Company has also provided additional information which quantifies the estimated impact on its operating expenses and operating income for non-operational items impacting operating results for fiscal 2019 and the second quarter of fiscal 2019. The Company expects the following during fiscal 2019: GAAP Guidance For Fiscal 2019: Net sales in the range of (12.0)% to (7.0)%, including the estimated negative impact of business exits and currency of approximately (2.5)% and (1.5)%, respectively Gross margin in the range of 52.0% to 53.5% Operating expenses, ranging from $1.13 billion to $1.19 billion, including restructuring charges of $40 million to $50 million Operating margin in the range of 1.5% to 3.0% Other income (expense) of approximately $29 million based on prevailing currency rates Interest expense of approximately $31 million Income (loss) before income taxes in the range of $30 million to $75 million For the Second Quarter of Fiscal 2019: Net sales in the range of (16.0)% to (10.0)%, including the estimated negative impacts of business exits and currency of approximately (3.0)% and (2.0)%, respectively Gross margin in the range of 52.5% to 54.5% Operating expenses, ranging from $265 million to $279 million, including restructuring charges of $9 million to $11 million Operating margin in the range of (2.5)% to 1.0% Other income (expense) of approximately $1 million based on prevailing currency rates Interest expense of approximately $7 million Income (loss) before income taxes in the range of $(17) million to $(3) million Safe Harbor Certain statements contained herein that are not historical facts, including multi-year profit improvement estimates, the success of our connected accessories, future financial guidance as well as estimated impacts from the Tax Act, foreign currency translation, amortization expense, foreign tax credits, non-cash impairments and restructuring charges, constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and involve a number of risks and uncertainties. The actual results of the future events described in such forward-looking statements could differ materially from those stated in such forward-looking statements. Among the factors that could cause actual results to differ materially are: changes in economic trends and financial performance, changes in government regulation and tariffs, changes in consumer demands, tastes and fashion trends, lower levels of consumer spending resulting from a general economic downturn, shifts in market demand resulting in inventory risks, changes in foreign currency exchange rates, risks related to the success of the multi-year profit improvement initiative, risks related to our connected accessories and the outcome of current and possible future litigation, as well as the risks and uncertainties set forth in the Companys Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 29, 2018 filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the SEC). These forward-looking statements are based on our current expectations and beliefs concerning future developments and their potential effect on us. While management believes that these forward-looking statements are reasonable as and when made, there can be no assurance that future developments affecting us will be those that we anticipate. Readers of this release should consider these factors in evaluating, and are cautioned not to place undue reliance on, the forward-looking statements contained herein. The Company assumes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, except as required by law. About Fossil Group, Inc. Fossil Group, Inc. is a global design, marketing, distribution and innovation company specializing in lifestyle accessories. Under a diverse portfolio of owned and licensed brands, our offerings include fashion watches, jewelry, handbags, small leather goods and wearables. We are committed to delivering the best in design and innovation across our owned brands, Fossil, Michele, Misfit, Relic, Skagen and Zodiac, and licensed brands, Armani Exchange, BMW, Chaps, Diesel, DKNY, Emporio Armani, kate spade new york, Marc Jacobs, Michael Kors, Puma and Tory Burch. We bring each brand story to life through an extensive distribution network across numerous geographies, categories and channels. Certain press release and SEC filing information concerning the Company is also available at www.fossilgroup.com. Investor Relations: Allison Malkin ICR, Inc. (203) 682-8225 Consolidated Income Statement Data For the 13 Weeks Ended For the 13 Weeks Ended ($ in millions, except per share data): March 30, 2019 March 31, 2018 Net sales $ 465.3 $ 569.2 Cost of sales 217.3 281.5 Gross profit 248.0 287.7 Gross margin 53.3 % 50.5 % Operating expenses: Selling, general and administrative expenses 257.7 294.7 Restructuring charges 10.2 21.3 Total operating expenses $ 267.9 $ 316.0 Total operating expenses (% of net sales) 57.6 % 55.5 % Operating income (loss) (19.9 ) (28.3 ) Operating margin (4.3 )% (5.0 )% Interest expense 8.1 10.7 Other income (expense) - net 25.8 (1.9 ) Income (loss) before income taxes (2.2 ) (40.9 ) Provision for income taxes 9.6 6.6 Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interest 0.4 0.8 Net income attributable to Fossil Group, Inc. $ (12.2 ) $ (48.3 ) Earnings per share: Basic $ (0.25 ) $ (0.99 ) Diluted $ (0.25 ) $ (0.99 ) Weighted average common shares outstanding: Basic 49.6 48.7 Diluted 49.6 48.7 Consolidated Balance Sheet Data ($ in millions): March 30, 2019 March 31, 2018 Assets: Cash and cash equivalents $ 271.4 $ 229.9 Accounts receivable - net 199.9 234.2 Inventories 384.1 530.7 Other current assets 133.1 161.6 Total current assets $ 988.5 $ 1,156.4 Property, plant and equipment - net $ 172.7 $ 208.5 Operating lease assets 312.0 0.0 Intangible and other assets - net 116.7 150.8 Total long-term assets $ 601.4 $ 359.3 Total assets $ 1,589.9 $ 1,515.7 Liabilities and Stockholders Equity: Accounts payable, accrued expenses and other current liabilities $ 430.6 $ 396.8 Short-term debt 65.9 127.1 Total current liabilities $ 496.5 $ 523.9 Long-term debt $ 161.1 $ 335.5 Long-term operating liabilities 311.6 0.0 Other long-term liabilities 71.4 129.7 Total long-term liabilities $ 544.1 $ 465.2 Stockholders equity $ 549.3 $ 526.6 Total liabilities and stockholders equity $ 1,589.9 $ 1,515.7 Constant Currency Financial Information The following table presents the Companys business segment and product net sales on a constant currency basis which are non-GAAP financial measures. To calculate net sales on a constant currency basis, net sales for the current fiscal year period for entities reporting in currencies other than the U.S. dollar are translated into U.S. dollars at the average rates during the comparable period of the prior fiscal year. The Company presents constant currency information to provide investors with a basis to evaluate how its underlying business performed excluding the effects of foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations. The constant currency financial information presented herein should not be considered a substitute for, or superior to, the measures of financial performance prepared in accordance with GAAP. Net Sales For the 13 Weeks Ended March 30, 2019 March 31, 2018 ($ in millions) As Reported Impact of Foreign Currency Exchange Rates Constant Currency As Reported Segment: Americas $ 190.4 $ 1.1 $ 191.5 $ 249.1 Europe 153.3 10.6 163.9 201.8 Asia 116.9 5.8 122.7 117.9 Corporate 4.7 0.0 4.7 0.4 Total net sales $ 465.3 $ 17.5 $ 482.8 $ 569.2 Product Categories: Watches $ 366.2 $ 13.9 $ 380.1 $ 447.6 Leathers 53.9 1.6 55.5 69.3 Jewelry 31.2 1.5 32.7 41.8 Other 14.0 0.5 14.5 10.5 Total net sales $ 465.3 $ 17.5 $ 482.8 $ 569.2 Below is a reconciliation of income (loss) before income taxes to Adjusted EBITDA for the trailing four fiscal quarters. Certain line items presented in the tables below, when aggregated, may not foot due to rounding. Fiscal 2018 Fiscal 2019 ($ in millions): Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Total Income (Loss) Before Income Taxes $ (10.6 ) $ 9.9 $ 61.8 (2.2 ) $ 58.9 Plus: Interest Expense 11.1 9.9 10.8 8.1 39.9 Amortization and Depreciation 15.1 16.1 16.9 14.4 62.5 Impairment Expense 7.8 0.1 0.3 0.9 9.1 Other Non-cash Charges 2.7 2.1 2.9 0.3 8.0 Stock-based Compensation 6.9 6.0 5.8 4.4 23.1 Restructuring Expense 14.5 6.1 4.7 10.2 35.5 Less: Interest Income 0.9 1.3 0.7 2.9 Adjusted EBITDA $ 46.6 $ 50.2 $ 101.9 $ 35.4 $ 234.1 Store Count Information March 30, 2019 March 31, 2018 Americas Europe Asia Total Americas Europe Asia Total Full price accessory 85 88 53 226 92 103 55 250 Outlets 116 74 38 228 132 74 44 250 Full priced multi-brand 0 4 3 7 0 6 6 12 Total stores 201 166 94 461 224 183 105 512 GUADALAJARA, Mexico, May 08, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Grupo Aeroportuario del Pacifico, S.A.B. de C.V. (NYSE: PAC; BMV: GAP) (the Company or GAP) announces that at the General Extraordinary Shareholders Meeting held on April 23, 2019, the session approved a capital stock reduction of Ps. 1,592,493,907.41 (ONE BILLION, FIVE HUNDRED AND NINETY-TWO MILLION, FOUR HUNDRED AND NINETY-THREE THOUSAND, NINE HUNDRED AND SEVEN PESOS 41/100 M.N.) and a consequent cash payment to shareholders of Ps. 3.03 (THREE PESOS AND 03/100 M.N.) per outstanding share representing the Companys shareholders equity. The capital reduction payment will take place on May 17, 2019, in accordance with the first resolution approved during the Extraordinary Shareholders Meeting, and corresponds to the twenty-seventh such payment. Company Description: Grupo Aeroportuario del Pacifico, S.A.B. de C.V. (GAP) operates 12 airports throughout Mexicos Pacific region, including the major cities of Guadalajara and Tijuana, the four tourist destinations of Puerto Vallarta, Los Cabos, La Paz and Manzanillo, and six other mid-sized cities: Hermosillo, Guanajuato, Morelia, Aguascalientes, Mexicali and Los Mochis. In February 2006, GAPs shares were listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol PAC and on the Mexican Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol GAP. In April 2015, GAP acquired 100% of Desarrollo de Concesiones Aeroportuarias, S.L., which owns a majority stake in MBJ Airports Limited, a company operating Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay, Jamaica. In October 2018, GAP entered into a concession agreement for the operation of the Norman Manley International Airport in Kingston, Jamaica. Subject to certain conditions precedent, GAP expects to take control of the operation of the Kingston airport in the last quarter of 2019. This press release may contain forward-looking statements. These statements are not historical facts, and are based on managements current view and estimates of future economic circumstances, industry conditions, company performance and financial results. The words anticipates, believes, estimates, expects, plans and similar expressions, as they relate to the company, are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Statements regarding the declaration or payment of dividends, the implementation of principal operating and financing strategies and capital expenditure plans, the direction of future operations and the factors or trends affecting financial conditions, liquidity or results of operations are examples of forward-looking statements. Such statements reflect the current views of management and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties. There is no guarantee that the expected events, trends or results will actually occur. The statements are based on many assumptions and factors, including general economic and market conditions, industry conditions, and operating factors. Any changes in such assumptions or factors could cause actual results to differ materially from current expectations. In accordance with Section 806 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 and article 42 of the Ley del Mercado de Valores, GAP has implemented a whistleblower program, which allows complainants to anonymously and confidentially report suspected activities that may involve criminal conduct or violations. The telephone number in Mexico, facilitated by a third party that is in charge of collecting these complaints, is 01-800-563-0047. The web site is www.lineadedenuncia.com/gap . GAPs Audit Committee will be notified of all complaints for immediate investigation. Amsterdam, 2 May 2019 - Heineken N.V. ('HEINEKEN') (EURONEXT: HEIA; OTCQX: HEINY) announces that it has acquired a majority stake in Biela y Bebidas del Ecuador S.A. BIELESA ('BIELA ECUADOR') from a group of mainly local investors. Over the past few years, BIELA ECUADOR has established its place in the Ecuadorian beer market by re-launching the Biela brand. The BIELA brewery is located in Guayaquil, Ecuador's largest city, and is fully operational using high-quality brewing and packaging equipment. In addition to Biela, HEINEKEN intends to market its portfolio of premium and international brands, led by Heineken, in Ecuador in the future. HEINEKEN also plans to brew Heineken beer locally in due course. Marc Busain, President Americas at HEINEKEN, said: "We are pleased to announce our investment in Ecuador. With its favourable demographics, flourishing tourism industry and GDP growth, it offers a lot of potential to grow our premium offering, led by the Heineken brand. We are excited to grow our business in Ecuador in close collaboration with our new partners." Luis Enrique Landinez, CEO of BIELA ECUADOR, speaking on behalf of the group of investors said: "We are very pleased to have completed this alliance with HEINEKEN, which is good news for Ecuador and its consumers, who will have a wider and better choice of beer products. The successful re-launch of the Biela brand, its current recognition in the market, and the favourable investment environment generated by the Ecuadorian Government have successfully drawn HEINEKEN into Ecuador." Ecuador is a very attractive market, with GDP projected to grow at a 5.7% rate (CAGR) in the next 10 years and encouraging social-economic fundamentals. The Ecuadorian beer market presents a promising opportunity for HEINEKEN, with a current size of 6 million hectolitres per year and a relatively low consumption per capita of 39 litres when compared to other South American countries. In addition, the Ecuadorian government is supportive of foreign investment and of introducing competition in the beer market. Story continues Financial terms are not disclosed. ENDS Press enquiries John-Paul Schuirink / Michael Fuchs E-mail: pressoffice@heineken.com Tel: +31-20-5239-355 Investor and analyst enquiries Federico Castillo Martinez / Janine Ackermann / Aris Hernandez E-mail: investors@heineken.com Tel: +31-20-5239-590 Editorial information About HEINEKEN HEINEKEN is the world's most international brewer. It is the leading developer and marketer of premium beer and cider brands. Led by the Heineken brand, the Group has a portfolio of more than 300 international, regional, local and specialty beers and ciders. HEINEKEN is committed to innovation, long-term brand investment, disciplined sales execution and focused cost management. Through "Brewing a Better World", sustainability is embedded in the business. HEINEKEN has a well-balanced geographic footprint with leadership positions in both developed and developing markets. It employs over 85,000 employees and operates breweries, malteries, cider plants and other production facilities in more than 70 countries. Heineken N.V. and Heineken Holding N.V. shares trade on the Euronext in Amsterdam. Prices for the ordinary shares may be accessed on Bloomberg under the symbols HEIA NA and HEIO NA and on Reuters under HEIN.AS and HEIO.AS. HEINEKEN has two sponsored level 1 American Depositary Receipt (ADR) programmes: Heineken N.V. (HEINY) and Heineken Holding N.V. (HKHHY). Most recent information is available on HEINEKEN's website: www.theHEINEKENcompany.com and follow us on Twitter via @HEINEKENCorp. Attachment Photo credit: Autosport Designs From Road & Track If you're interested in owning a car capable of breaking the 200-mph mark, you have plenty to choose from. Even some big, heavy luxury cars can break the 200-mph barrier-the Bentley Continental GT has a top speed of 207 mph. But if you want to go 200-plus mph and look cool doing it, you have fewer choices. This XJ220 is one of them. It's for sale right now by an exotic car dealer. Welcome to You Must Buy, our daily look at the cars you really should be buying instead of that boring commuter sedan. The XJ220 was originally supposed to get the naturally aspirated V-12 from the XJR-9 Le Mans race car, along with all-wheel drive. Engineers determined all of that would be too heavy, so the production version got a twin-turbo V-6 sending power to the rear wheels, instead. It still had 550 horsepower, though, which was still enough to propel it to a top speed of 212 mph. And don't discount that exhaust note, either. This particular car was sold new in Germany in 1994, where it stayed until 2004 when it was sold to a doctor in Florida. In 2010 it was sold to a collector, who had the fuel system serviced and the tires replaced. In 2011, the car was shipped back to Jaguar's factory in the UK and given a full restoration, including an engine rebuild. In all that time, the car covered just 3400 miles. The car is now listed for sale at Autosport Designs in Long Island, New York. There's no price listed, but considering the low mileage and previous work done, we'd say this car is worth a pretty penny. ('You Might Also Like',) Huawei CFO Is on the Move to Her Bigger $10 Million Mansion (Bloomberg) -- Huawei Technologies Co.s chief financial officer may still be under house arrest in Canada but shes on the move -- to her newly renovated C$13 million ($10 million) mansion. The Supreme Court of British Columbia approved Meng Wanzhous petition Wednesday to modify her bail terms, which included a request to move from her C$5 million, six-bedroom residence near a park, to an estate more than triple the size in one of Vancouvers toniest neighborhoods. Shell be just two doors down from the U.S. consul generals residence, where the star-spangled banner flaps on the front lawn. The existing home is a corner lot, exposed on three sides, there isnt clarity between public and private portions, one of Mengs defense lawyers, David Martin, told the court. Currently, large numbers of people go there, sometimes approach the house. Such nuisances would be minimized with the move. The new home in the Shaughnessy neighborhood is larger and enclosed, allowing her paid bail monitors to carry out their duties more effectively and fully within the gated property, Martin said. Meng plans to relocate on Saturday, according to an affidavit filed by her bail monitor. Mengs bail conditions, which allow her to freely roam a 100-square-mile (62-square kilometer) patch of Vancouver as long as shes accompanied by her monitors, contrasts starkly with that of two Canadians detained by China on national security grounds shortly after her arrest. Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor will soon mark five months in secret jails, where theyve had just a handful of consular visits combined. China accuses Kovrig, a former Canadian diplomat, of spying and Spavor, a North Korea travel guide, of supplying him with intelligence. Theyve been held in isolation and questioned multiple times a day in cells where the lights cant be turned off. Meng was in court Wednesday as her lawyers laid out their strategy for her defense, arguing that her constitutional rights were violated when she was detained for three hours at the Vancouver airport before her arrest at the request of U.S. authorities. They also plan to question "double criminality," disputing that what the U.S. alleges she did -- lied to banks to trick them into conducting transactions for Huawei that may have violated U.S. sanctions -- constitutes a crime in Canada. Story continues Her next scheduled court appearance is Sept. 23. (Updates with Meng scheduled to move Saturday in fourth paragraph.) To contact the reporter on this story: Natalie Obiko Pearson in Vancouver at npearson7@bloomberg.net 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. Huawei CFO Meng Wanzhou intends to seek a stay of her extradition proceedings. Her legal team said she was innocent of the allegations made by the U.S. that she committed bank and wire fraud in relation to skirting U.S. sanctions on Iran. Meng's lawyers said comments made by U.S. President Donald Trump about the case represent one reason why the extradition should be stopped. Huawei CFO Meng Wanzhou intends to seek a stay of her extradition proceedings with her lawyers citing politics and recent comments made by U.S. President Donald Trump among other reasons why the case should be thrown out. Meng, who is also the daughter of Huawei's founder Ren Zhengfei , was arrested in December by Canada authorities at the request of the United States government. She was charged with bank and wire fraud in relation to violating American sanctions on Iran. Her lawyers laid out their legal arguments in a Vancouver court on Wednesday local time with Meng in attendance. What was her legal defense? The U.S. alleges that Meng lied to a bank about Huawei's relationship with an unofficial subsidiary in Iran called Skycom in order to get banking services. Her lawyers reiterated her innocence and said that the bank had knowledge of the nature of Skycom's business and operations in Iran and understood the company's relationship with Huawei. Meng's defense also brought up issues with her arrest in December in Vancouver International Airport. Her legal team alleged that during the three hours she was held, her luggage was detained and searched and her cellphone and electronic devices were taken at the direction of the U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation. They claim she was made to give up her passwords to those devices. Meng's lawyer said "her rights were put in total suspension" and will ask for more disclosures about what happened. The Huawei CFO's defense also argued that the extradition request from the U.S. does not satisfy a requirement known as "double criminality." That means that the crime of which she is accused of by the U.S. also needs to be a crime in Canada. Meng is accused of violating U.S. sanctions on Iran. Since Canada does not have sanctions on financial services in Iran, they argue that she cannot be extradited for the alleged bank and wire fraud and conspiracy to commit bank and wire fraud. Story continues And finally, Meng's lawyers argued that there are political factors at play in the process. Her lawyers said "statements from President Trump are intimidating and coercive." They did not specify which statements, but Trump has previously hinted that he could intervene in Meng's case if it helped seal a U.S.-China trade deal. "We have maintained that her U.S.-ordered arrest was an unlawful abuse of process one guided by political considerations and tactics, not by the rule of law," Huawei said in a statement after the hearing. What next? Meng will next appear in court on Sept. 23 when her legal team is expected to make applications for more disclosures. The Huawei executive also received new bail terms which will allow her to move into a larger mansion. She also must continue wearing a tracker and ankle bracelet. The official start of the extradition hearing is expected to begin in January. Additional reporting by CNBC's Laura Batchelor. More From CNBC By Mayank Bhardwaj NEW DELHI (Reuters) - India has imported an extra 27,000 tonnes of non-genetically modified (GM) corn from Ukraine at $205 a tonne, including cost, insurance and freight, three trade sources said on Thursday, to offset a shortage triggered by pest infestations and dry weather. Earlier this year, the country imported 57,000 tonnes of corn, free of GM organisms, from Ukraine, in what was the countrys first overseas purchase since 2016. The latest purchase takes this year's total imports to 84,000 tonnes, the sources said. A cargo of 27,000 tonnes of non-GM corn from Ukraine has just arrived at the Kandla port in the western state of Gujarat, three trade sources directly involved in the deal told Reuters. They didn't wish to be named in line with their companies' policy. India, which used to be a major exporter of corn to southeast Asia until a few years ago, has turned into an importer, thanks to falling output and rising demand from the country's poultry producers and corn starch manufacturers. The switch in Indias position has brought cheer to rival corn suppliers like Brazil, Argentina and the United States which have now replaced New Delhi in the southeast Asian market. Stung by a sharp drop in output, India in 2016 asked one of the three state-run traders, PEC Ltd, to import duty-free corn - the countrys first such overseas purchase in 16 years. But PEC could import only 181,000 tonnes. India, which doesn't allow cultivation of any GM food crop, has rules that are supposed to ensure that imports contain no trace of GMOs. But an explosion in the use of GM crops worldwide means that purity has become harder to attain, underlining the vulnerabilities faced by countries trying to stay GM free. JUST ONE SHIPMENT Even one shipment containing a few grains of GM corn could seep into Indian agriculture by cross pollinating with Indian varieties, making domestic farmers vulnerable for illegally growing GM crops, said an Indian government official who's involved in framing trade rules. He asked not to be named as he's not allowed to speak to the media. Story continues Concerns over contamination have delayed imports of non-GM corn by state-run trader MMTC, two government sources said. In April, the government allowed MMTC to import up to 100,000 tonnes of corn at a reduced duty of 15 percent. India, the world's seventh-biggest corn producer, otherwise imposes a 60 percent import tax on the grain. Indian corn prices have surged more than 20 percent since the second half of 2018, hitting the financial health of local poultry producers and corn starch manufacturers. Poultry producers and starch manufacturers have petitioned the government to allow imports of at least half a million tonnes of corn at a reduced tax rate. In February, two traders in Singapore said India was expected to import up to 1 million tonnes of corn this year. An infestation of the fall armyworm, which devastated African crops in 2017, and dry weather in some areas, have cut India's corn output. Indian farmers grow corn twice a year. Traders and analysts expect that India's corn output from the summer season of the 2018/19 crop year could drop to 16 million tonnes against 20.24 million tonnes harvested in the summer season of 2017/18. (Reporting by Mayank Bhardwaj; Editing by Martin Howell) Want to participate in a short research study? Help shape the future of investing tools and you could win a $250 gift card! We've lost count of how many times insiders have accumulated shares in a company that goes on to improve markedly. On the other hand, we'd be remiss not to mention that insider sales have been known to precede tough periods for a business. So shareholders might well want to know whether insiders have been buying or selling shares in China Maple Leaf Educational Systems Limited (HKG:1317). What Is Insider Selling? Most investors know that it is quite permissible for company leaders, such as directors of the board, to buy and sell stock on the market. However, such insiders must disclose their trading activities, and not trade on inside information. Insider transactions are not the most important thing when it comes to long-term investing. But logic dictates you should pay some attention to whether insiders are buying or selling shares. As Peter Lynch said, 'insiders might sell their shares for any number of reasons, but they buy them for only one: they think the price will rise.' Check out our latest analysis for China Maple Leaf Educational Systems China Maple Leaf Educational Systems Insider Transactions Over The Last Year Founder Shu Liang Jen made the biggest insider purchase in the last 12 months. That single transaction was for HK$19m worth of shares at a price of HK$3.78 each. So it's clear an insider wanted to buy, even at a higher price than the current share price (being HK$3.30). While their view may have changed since the purchase was made, this does at least suggest they have had confidence in the company's future. To us, it's very important to consider the price insiders pay for shares is very important. It is generally more encouraging if they paid above the current price, as it suggests they saw value, even at higher levels. Happily, we note that in the last year insiders paid HK$108m for 26.1m shares. But insiders sold 100k shares worth HK$700k. In total, China Maple Leaf Educational Systems insiders bought more than they sold over the last year. The average buy price was around HK$4.16. These transactions suggest that insiders have considered the current price attractive. You can see the insider transactions (by individuals) over the last year depicted in the chart below. By clicking on the graph below, you can see the precise details of each insider transaction! Story continues SEHK:1317 Recent Insider Trading, May 9th 2019 China Maple Leaf Educational Systems is not the only stock that insiders are buying. For those who like to find winning investments this free list of growing companies with recent insider purchasing, could be just the ticket. Insiders at China Maple Leaf Educational Systems Have Bought Stock Recently Over the last three months, we've seen significant insider buying at China Maple Leaf Educational Systems. Shu Liang Jen spent CN24m on stock, and there wasn't any selling. This makes one think the business has some good points. Does China Maple Leaf Educational Systems Boast High Insider Ownership? Another way to test the alignment between the leaders of a company and other shareholders is to look at how many shares they own. We usually like to see fairly high levels of insider ownership. It's great to see that China Maple Leaf Educational Systems insiders own 51% of the company, worth about HK$5.0b. This kind of significant ownership by insiders does generally increase the chance that the company is run in the interest of all shareholders. So What Do The China Maple Leaf Educational Systems Insider Transactions Indicate? It is good to see the recent insider purchase. And the longer term insider transactions also give us confidence. Along with the high insider ownership, this analysis suggests that insiders are quite bullish about China Maple Leaf Educational Systems. Nice! Of course, the future is what matters most. So if you are interested in China Maple Leaf Educational Systems, you should check out this free report on analyst forecasts for the company. If you would prefer to check out another company -- one with potentially superior financials -- then do not miss this free list of interesting companies, that have HIGH return on equity and low debt. We aim to bring you long-term focused research analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. If you spot an error that warrants correction, please contact the editor at editorial-team@simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. Simply Wall St has no position in the stocks mentioned. Thank you for reading. Threats by Iran to shut down two of the worlds most important oil transit routes are creating one of the most serious geopolitical risks for oil prices in decades. The threats, while they seem a world away, may have a direct impact on your wallet. One year after President Trump withdrew from the Iranian nuclear agreement and days after his administration refused to extend the waivers to buyers of Iranian oil, Iran retaliated with threats against the United States and its interests. Some of those include its very public threat to close the Strait of Hormuz, considered to be the worlds most critical chokepoint for global oil trade, and another threat picked up by U.S. intelligence that Iran has plans to carry out attacks in the Bab el-Mandeb strait, which is considered to be the fourth most important chokepoint. While in the past the market has taken grandiose threats from Iran to close major oil routes with a grain of salt, the Trump administration is taking them seriously. If Iran closed the Strait of Hormuz it would lead to an immediate military response, not only by the U.S. but by the rest of the world. This waterway is so critical for the global economy; the world would have no choice but to respond. Even if this waterway was shut down just for hours, it more than likely would cause a major oil price spike. According to the Energy Information Administrations latest data, the strait accounts for 30 percent of all seaborne-traded crude oil and other petroleum products. The loss of that supply because of military action would cause panic, and while it is doubtful the Iranian military has the ability to keep the strait closed for an extended period of time, it might not matter because the oil price spike would have already happened. The damage to your wallet, as they say, would already be done. The other waterway that is being threatened is the Strait of Bab el-Mandeb. While this straight, according to the EIA, only sees about 5 million barrels of oil transit a day, at the same closing it could keep tankers in the Persian Gulf from reaching the Suez Canal and the SUMED Pipeline, diverting them around the southern tip of Africa. That would cause oil supply to backup and deprive the world of those barrels, causing refiners to latch on to other supply. That would come at a high cost that would cause oil prices to again spike until that supply was allowed to move. Story continues These threats by Iran show that they really have no regard for the global community. Instead of backing down, the White House is responding with shows of military force and even more sanctions. Now the U.S. is going after Irans industrial metals export business; issuing an executive order this week hitting buyers with sanctions and promised further action until Iran fundamentally changes its behavior. The order issued covers Irans iron, steel, aluminum and copper sectors; the Islamic Republics largest non-petroleum-related sources of export revenue and 10 percent of its export economy. This may give the Iranian regime more reasons to lash out and if they do, get prepared for some price spikes. Even if Iran does nothing we are on track for higher prices. The recent tensions with Iran have already raised prices along with other risk factors from Venezuela, North Koreas rocket man shooting off missiles and the ongoing fighting in Libya. Oil prices that are now hovering in the mid sixties could go as high as $77 a barrel by Memorial Day. That also means that the U.S. national average for gasoline is headed back toward that $3.00 a gallon area. CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX BUSINESS APP If that sounds bad, it could get a lot worse. You could add perhaps another $100 a gallon to that price if Iran tries to make good on its threats. If that happens we will feel the pain and we will see economic contraction. The price spike would cause people and businesses to pull back investment and could erode consumer confidence. Prices then would pull back after the market had time to adjust to the new risk realities. Phil Flynn is senior energy analyst at The PRICE Futures Group and a Fox Business Network contributor. He is one of the world's leading market analysts, providing individual investors, professional traders, and institutions with up-to-the-minute investment and risk management insight into global petroleum, gasoline, and energy markets. His precise and timely forecasts have come to be in great demand by industry and media worldwide and his impressive career goes back almost three decades, gaining attention with his market calls and energetic personality as writer of The Energy Report. You can contact Phil by phone at (888) 264-5665 or by email at pflynn@pricegroup.com. Related Articles Firms that track maritime shipments believe Iran has made its first crude delivery to Syria since the end of 2018. The suspected shipment comes as the Trump administration aims to cut Iran's oil exports to zero by tightening sanctions. TankerTrackers.com and ClipperData estimate about one million barrels of crude were delivered to Syria in the first week of May. Tanker-tracking firms believe Iran is once again shipping crude oil to Syria, resuming the illicit trade as tensions with Washington rise and the Islamic Republic faces increasing international isolation. An Iranian delivery of approximately one million barrels of crude was made into the Syrian port of Baniyas during the first week of May, according to TankerTrackers.com and ClipperData, two groups that follows oil vessels. This would be the first Iranian oil delivery to Syria since the end of 2018, according to Samir Madani, founder of TankerTrackers. The suspected delivery comes one year after the U.S. unilaterally pulled out of an international nuclear agreement with Iran and just one week after the Trump administration tightened energy sanctions in an effort to push Iranian crude exports to zero. It also follows the deployment of a U.S. carrier strike group and bomber task force to the Middle East earlier this week. Iran's leadership in Tehran responded on Wednesday by announcing it will stop complying with key parts of the nuclear accord. The same day, Washington slapped new sanctions on Iranian metal exports. Analysts have widely predicted that Iran will step up efforts to smuggle oil into Syria and neighboring Iraq as the U.S. makes it more difficult for Tehran to ship oil to its few remaining customers, including China, India and Turkey. Madani, the TankerTrackers founder, has tracked Iranian vessels for nearly three years, both through data collected by the U.S. Coast Guard and what he calls, "eyes in the sky," essentially visual data collected by a network of satellites. This allows the group to track tankers that may turn off their transponders a common move for those selling oil off the markets. Story continues The most recent moves by an Iranian tanker, previously known as True Ocean, caught the attention of both tracking companies when the vessel made a series of unusual moves. The Suezmax tanker in question, now traveling as the Masal, is on the U.S Treasury's list of vessels that has been used to move oil to Syria in the past. Based on the U.S. Coast Guard's AIS data, the Masal left Iran in March heading towards the eastern ports of Turkey. Madani points out that this was the first sign that things were different. Typically Iranian tankers head to the western ports where Turkish refineries are based. Once in Turkey, the vessel is said to have anchored for three weeks before leaving the port of Iskenderun, still carrying a million barrels of oil. This tipped off TankerTrackers to keep a close eye on the Masal. However, the tanker eventually went offline, switching off its transponder near the Syrian shoreline. According to TankerTrackers and ClipperData, the Masal didn't come back online until May 7, at which point it had unloaded its cargo near the port of Baniyas where Syria's largest refinery is located. It then began making its way back to Iran. The Foreign Ministry of Iran did not immediately return a request for clarification on the suspected delivery to Syria. ClipperData says the Masal is the second ship carrying Iranian oil that has been caught going dark in the Mediterranean since April. Despite a robust sanctions regime by the U.S., Iranian officials have still budgeted for 25% of the nation's oil to be exported. That is likely necessary for the economic stability of the country, but will prove difficult after the Trump administration stopped granting sanctions waivers that allow several countries to import limited supplies from Iran. Oil analysts agree that Iran will likely go through back channels to find buyers, although the price for that oil would be at a steep discount. Data from Genscape, a company that looks at oil production levels of different countries has shown that Iran has, in fact, upped its production in the last two months, although no orders have been made for the month of May. Iran had been shipping about one to three million barrels a month to Syria, TankerTrackers says. But due to increased pressure from the U.S., those shipments virtually came to a halt towards the end of 2018, impacting Iran's fragile economy and creating a fuel shortage in Syria, which imports nearly 75% of its crude. Through a long-standing relationship with Syria, Iran had previously extended a line of credit to Damascus for oil shipments dating back to 2013. However, that line of credit had been halted since October 2018 ahead of U.S. sanctions. More From CNBC TOKYO, May 9 (Reuters) - Japan's Sharp Corp, an Apple Inc supplier, said on Thursday it expects its operating profit to rise 18.8 percent this year, but well below its target. Electronics maker Sharp, controlled by Taiwan's Foxconn , forecast operating profit of 100 billion yen ($909.84 million) for the year to March 2020, up from 84.1 billion yen a year earlier. The outlook compared with an average forecast of 92.5 billion yen from 10 analysts surveyed by Refinitiv and was far short of a 150 billion yen target for the current financial year that Sharp set in 2017. (Reporting by Takashi Umekawa; Editing by Sonali Paul and Himani Sarkar) (Bloomberg) -- A little less than half a century ago, a pair of NASA astronauts packed up their geological samples after three days of roving and returned to Earth in the Apollo 17 lunar module. It was the last time that a human walked on the moon. Now the worlds wealthiest man, Amazon.com Inc. Chief Executive Officer Jeff Bezos, and the other company he founded, Blue Origin LLC, want to chart the next chapter in humanitys exploration of its tiny orbiting sibling. At a press conference in Washington, D.C. on Thursday afternoon, Bezos made his case for going back to the moon and showed off his private space companys lunar lander. Its time to go back to the moon, this time to stay, Bezos said. On stage at the event, Bezos dropped the curtain behind him to reveal Blue Origins Blue Moon lander. The craft features a large internal spherical fuel tank and sits atop four landing pads. Its powered by liquid hydrogen, in part so it can be refuel from ice water on the moons poles. Hydrogen fuel cells will power the device through the lunar night. This is an incredible vehicle, Bezos said, and its going to the moon. Bezos also showed off a new BE-7 engine, a high-performance liquid hydrogen/liquid oxygen engine that powers the landers six minute descent. After it lands, Blue Moon will deploy a small rover. Bezos also displayed a photo of a version of the lander that can accommodate astronauts, and said he hopes missions can commence by 2024. Blue Origin has been working on Blue Moon since at least 2017. Last October, the company signed an agreement with NASA to develop medium to large commercial lander systems for the lunar surface. In exchange for $50,000 payment from Blue, NASA agreed to share technical analysis and information on potential lunar landing sites. In a March speech, Vice President Mike Pence called for a return to the moon by 2024 and said the Trump administration had directed NASA to accomplish this goal by any means necessary. Story continues Bezos has been at odds with President Donald Trump over a number of issues related to Amazon. But he said of the Trump administrations timetable to return to the moon: I love this. Its the right thing to do. The moon has always been central to Bezoss space-faring dreams, as well as the vision of his former professor, the late Princeton physicist Gerard ONeill. ONeill, an iconoclast who passed away in 1992, envisioned a future with millions of humans living in space inside giant orbiting space cylinders, growing crops and harnessing the energy of the sun. The physicist theorized that the moon, a repository of raw materials and free of the atmosphere and punitive gravitational forces of the Earth, could be the staging ground to construct and economically launch such habitats. This focus on the moon as the most effective way to start colonizing space sets Bezos apart from fellow space-faring tech billionaire Elon Musk, who sees colonizing Mars as humanitys best Plan B. Bezos dubbed that kind of thinking to planet chauvinism. His pitch for a lunar landing even included a jab at those prefer to aim for Mars. Round-trip on the order of years, read one slide with an image of the red planet. No real-time communication. Blue Origins mascot is a tortoise, and true to form, the companys progress has been notoriously slower than at Musks SpaceX. SpaceXs Falcon 9 rockets have completed over 70 missions, sending satellites into orbit and ferrying supplies to the International Space Station. Blues two-stage orbital rocket, dubbed New Glenn, isnt scheduled for launch until 2021. Its first stage, Bezos said, is designed to be reused 25 times. A much smaller, reusable rocket, New Shepard, is designed to take six paying tourists to the edge of space for a few minutes of weightlessness. Those missions, Bezos said, are due to start later this year. Blue Origin invited a few dozen kids, who Bezos said were inaugural members of a new Club for the Future, meant to inspire young people to build the future of life in space. The kids here and their kids and grandchildren will build these colonies. My generations job is to build the infrastructure so they will be able to. We are going to build a road to space, Bezos told the audience. And then amazing things will happen. Then youll see entrepreneurial creativity. Then youll see space entrepreneurs start companies in their dorm rooms. That cant happen today. To contact the author of this story: Brad Stone in San Francisco at bstone12@bloomberg.net To contact the editor responsible for this story: Aaron Rutkoff at arutkoff@bloomberg.net For more articles like this, please visit us at bloomberg.com 2019 Bloomberg L.P. LONDON (AP) The Latest on the newest royal baby in Britain (all times local): 1:20 a.m. New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has congratulated Prince Harry and Meghan on having their baby son, saying a birth is an "incredibly exciting time." Ardern last year became just the second elected leader in modern history to give birth while holding office. Her daughter Neve is 10 months old. Ardern on Tuesday said in a release she wished the royal family all the best and hoped to see them in New Zealand at some point. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex visited New Zealand in October. On that trip, Meghan showed she was prepared to continue speaking out about feminist issues in her new role as a royal when she gave a speech congratulating New Zealand for becoming the first country to allow women to vote in 1893. ___ 12:25 a.m. Australia's prime minister has welcomed the birth of Prince Harry and Meghan's son, recalling the British royals' excitement when they announced the pregnancy during a visit to Australia. Prime Minister Scott Morrison told Radio Triple M on Tuesday that he also was excited when the couple broke the news in October that the Duchess of Sussex was pregnant. Morrison said: "It's great that the wonderful day has come and everybody is well." He said a baby's birth, whether royal or otherwise, was a fantastic moment for any family. ___ 10:15 p.m. Michelle Obama has congratulated the new parents in Britain's royal family on the birth of their first child, a son. The former U.S. first lady tweeted on Monday: "Congratulations, Meghan and Harry! Barack and I are so thrilled for both you." She wrote that she and former President Barack Obama "can't wait to meet" the baby. ___ 9:30 p.m. The estranged father of Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex, has told a British tabloid he is delighted to hear that his daughter and her newborn son are doing well. Thomas Markle told The Sun newspaper he hopes the baby will "serve the crown and the people of Britain with grace, dignity and honor." Story continues He also offered congratulations to the infant's father, Prince Harry. Thomas Markle has criticized Meghan in print in recent months, badly straining their relationship. Based in southern California and in Mexico, he didn't attend the couple's wedding last year and has health problems. ___ 5:00 p.m. A formal baby announcement has been posted at Buckingham Palace saying Queen Elizabeth II welcomed the birth of Prince Harry and Meghan's son, her eighth great-grandchild. A pair of uniformed staff members placed the framed announcement on an easel just inside the palace gates Monday afternoon, observing a long tradition hours after the new prince's arrival was announced on social media. The ceremonial easel carried an announcement of Prince William and Kate's third child, Prince Louis, in April 2018. It remained there for about 24 hours. ___ 4:05 p.m. Congratulations are flowing in from across the U.K. after Prince Harry announced that his American wife, Meghan, had given birth to a healthy baby boy. Kind words poured in from Justin Welby, the archbishop of Canterbury, Harry's uncle, Prince Andrew, and opposition Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn. First Minister Nicola Sturgeon of Scotland also sent her good wishes. ___ 3:35 p.m. British Prime Minister Theresa May has congratulated Prince Harry and his wife Meghan on the birth of their son. May tweeted: "Congratulations to the Duke and Duchess of Sussex on the arrival of their baby boy. Wishing you all the best at this happy time." The baby was born at 5:26 a.m. and weighs 7 pounds, 3 ounces. ___ 2:55 p.m. A beaming Prince Harry says he and his wife Meghan have a healthy baby boy. Harry says he's "incredibly proud" of his wife after she gave birth early Monday morning. The baby weighs 7 pounds, 3 ounces, and palace officials say he was born at 5:26 a.m. Monday. The infant, now the seventh in line to the British throne, has not yet been named. The prince says he is "over the moon" about the birth of their first child and said more details will be shared in the coming days. He spoke Monday before TV cameras. Officials say senior royals including Queen Elizabeth II have been informed of the birth, as has the family of his late mother, Princess Diana. ___ 2:45 p.m. Prince Harry and his wife Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex, are the proud parents of a new baby boy. The baby, who has not yet been named, is seventh in line for the British throne and is Queen Elizabeth II's eighth great-grandchild. It is the first child for Harry and Meghan, who married a year ago. Harry spoke before cameras on Monday afternoon. The duchess is a 37-year-old retired American actress formerly known as Meghan Markle. The 34-year-old prince is the son of Prince Charles next in line for the throne and Princess Diana, who died in a Paris car crash in 1997. Harry has long spoken of his desire to start a family. ___ Read all Associated Press coverage of the latest royal baby at https://www.apnews.com/RoyalBaby LHC Group (LHCG) came out with quarterly earnings of $0.98 per share, beating the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $0.90 per share. This compares to earnings of $0.63 per share a year ago. These figures are adjusted for non-recurring items. This quarterly report represents an earnings surprise of 8.89%. A quarter ago, it was expected that this entry-level homebuilder in the Texas, Arizona, Florida and Georgia markets would post earnings of $1.03 per share when it actually produced earnings of $1.03, delivering no surprise. Over the last four quarters, the company has surpassed consensus EPS estimates three times. LHC, which belongs to the Zacks Medical - Outpatient and Home Healthcare industry, posted revenues of $502.59 million for the quarter ended March 2019, missing the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 1.68%. This compares to year-ago revenues of $295.98 million. The company has not been able to beat consensus revenue estimates over the last four quarters. The sustainability of the stock's immediate price movement based on the recently-released numbers and future earnings expectations will mostly depend on management's commentary on the earnings call. LHC shares have added about 19.7% since the beginning of the year versus the S&P 500's gain of 15.1%. What's Next for LHC? While LHC has outperformed the market so far this year, the question that comes to investors' minds is: what's next for the stock? There are no easy answers to this key question, but one reliable measure that can help investors address this is the company's earnings outlook. Not only does this include current consensus earnings expectations for the coming quarter(s), but also how these expectations have changed lately. Empirical research shows a strong correlation between near-term stock movements and trends in earnings estimate revisions. Investors can track such revisions by themselves or rely on a tried-and-tested rating tool like the Zacks Rank, which has an impressive track record of harnessing the power of earnings estimate revisions. Story continues Ahead of this earnings release, the estimate revisions trend for LHC was unfavorable. While the magnitude and direction of estimate revisions could change following the company's just-released earnings report, the current status translates into a Zacks Rank #4 (Sell) for the stock. So, the shares are expected to underperform the market in the near future. You can see the complete list of today's Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here. It will be interesting to see how estimates for the coming quarters and current fiscal year change in the days ahead. The current consensus EPS estimate is $1.01 on $526.04 million in revenues for the coming quarter and $4.20 on $2.11 billion in revenues for the current fiscal year. Investors should be mindful of the fact that the outlook for the industry can have a material impact on the performance of the stock as well. In terms of the Zacks Industry Rank, Medical - Outpatient and Home Healthcare is currently in the bottom 28% of the 250 plus Zacks industries. Our research shows that the top 50% of the Zacks-ranked industries outperform the bottom 50% by a factor of more than 2 to 1. 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 LHC Group (LHCG) : Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Zacks Investment Research CHANDLER, Ariz. (AP) _ Microchip Technology Inc. (MCHP) on Tuesday reported fiscal fourth-quarter net income of $174.7 million. The Chandler, Arizona-based company said it had net income of 70 cents per share. Earnings, adjusted for one-time gains and costs, came to $1.48 per share. The results topped Wall Street expectations. The average estimate of 10 analysts surveyed by Zacks Investment Research was for earnings of $1.39 per share. The chipmaker posted revenue of $1.33 billion in the period, matching Street forecasts. For the year, the company reported profit of $355.9 million, or $1.42 per share. Revenue was reported as $5.48 billion. For the current quarter ending in July, Microchip Tech expects its per-share earnings to range from $1.26 to $1.49. Analysts surveyed by Zacks had forecast adjusted earnings per share of $1.57. The company said it expects revenue in the range of $1.26 billion to $1.4 billion for the fiscal first quarter. Analysts surveyed by Zacks had expected revenue of $1.39 billion. Microchip Tech shares have climbed 31% since the beginning of the year, while the Standard & Poor's 500 index has climbed 15%. The stock has risen 6% in the last 12 months. _____ This story was generated by Automated Insights (http://automatedinsights.com/ap) using data from Zacks Investment Research. Access a Zacks stock report on MCHP at https://www.zacks.com/ap/MCHP North Korea fired at least one unidentified projectile Thursday, South Korea said, an act of defiance that marks the countrys second test launch of weapons in less than a week. North Korea launched the weapon from the countrys northwest Sino-ri missile base at around 4:30 p.m., South Koreas Joint Chiefs of Staff said in a statement. The projectile flew 460 kilometers (260 miles) across the Korean Peninsula, local broadcaster KBS TV said, a distance that would be consistent with a short-range missile. The test follows increasingly impatient demands for sanctions concessions from North Korean leader Kim Jong Un in the wake of his failed February nuclear summit with U.S. President Donald Trump. It came while the U.S.s top nuclear envoy, Stephen Biegun, was in Seoul to meet with South Korean officials. On Saturday, Kim supervised the launch of various projectiles, including what non-proliferation experts believed was a short-range ballistic missile. The U.S. and its South Korean allies had played down last weekends provocation in an attempt to keep it from scuttling talks, even though such a test would represent a violation of United Nations sanctions. While South Korean President Moon Jae-ins office said that he and Trump agreed in a telephone call that the approach was effective, non-proliferation experts said the strategy risked encouraging Kim to conduct more tests. The latest incident bolstered those concerns. Since the U.S. response was low key, North Korea appears to think that this level of test would not cause problems and it can continue the tests, said Jina Kim, a research fellow at Korea Institute for Defense Analyses. North Korea called the Saturday test a reasonable strike drill for its combat readiness, according to a report published Wednesday in the state-run Korean Central News Agency. Thursdays launch occurred at 4:30 p.m from the Sino-ri missile base located about 210 kilometers north of the border with South Korea, South Korean military officials said. The projectile was fired from northwestern province of North Pyongan, which borders China, and flew east over the peninsula. Japan said that the projectile posed no risk to its territory and didnt land in its nearby waters. Japans Kyodo News agency cited unnamed officials as saying North Korea fired more than one projectile. The Center for Strategic and International Studies said in January that Sino-ri was one of about 20 undeclared missile operating bases in North Korea, which houses a regiment-sized unit equipped with medium range ballistic missiles. * Launches come days after North Korea fired missile, rockets * South calls launches worrisome and unhelpful * U.S. says seized North Korean ship (Adds Trump; seizure of North Korean ship) By Josh Smith and David Brunnstrom SEOUL/WASHINGTON, May 9 (Reuters) - North Korea fired what appeared to be two short-range missiles on Thursday in its second such test in less than a week, and the United States announced it had seized a North Korean cargo ship as tensions again mounted between the two countries. U.S. President Donald Trump said "nobody is happy" at the missile launches, which South Korea said were likely a protest by Pyongyang against Trump refusing to ease economic sanctions on the North. The United States has given no sign of willingness to budge on sanctions and on Thursday the Justice Department announced the seizure of a North Korean cargo vessel it said was involved in the illicit shipping of coal. North Korea has effectively pulled back from engagement with Washington since a summit between leader Kim Jong Un and Trump in February fell apart without agreement on U.S. demands for the dismantling of Pyongyang's nuclear programme and Kim's demands for relief from punishing sanctions. "The relationship continues ... I know they want to negotiate, they're talking about negotiating. But I don't think they're ready to negotiate," Trump told reporters at the White House on Thursday. Less than a week ago, Kim oversaw the test-firing of multiple rockets and a missile and the latest tests coincided with a visit to the South Korean capital by U.S. special envoy for North Korea, Stephen Biegun. The two missiles fired on Thursday went east from the northwestern area of Kusong, South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff said. They covered distances of 420 km (260 miles) and 270 km (168 miles) and reached an altitude of about 50 km (30 miles) before falling into the sea, they said. Pentagon spokesman Lieutenant Colonel Dave Eastburn said: "We're aware of the reports and monitoring." Story continues "North Korea seemed to be discontented it could not reach a deal in Hanoi," South Korea's President Moon Jae-in told South Korean broadcaster KBS, referring to the summit in Hanoi with Trump. South Korea's Moon said that even if the missiles fired on Thursday were short range, they could still violate U.N. resolutions barring North Korea from developing its ballistic missile force. Even so, Moon said he saw the tests as a sign that North Korea wanted to negotiate, and said he planned to push for a fourth inter-Korean summit with Kim. U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, who earlier cut short a European trip to return to Washington for meetings on Iran, was also due to have discussions on North Korea after learning of the launches, a senior U.S. State Department official said. Pompeo was due to meet on Thursday with Japan's Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga, who is expected to raise Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's hopes to set up a summit with Kim. WEEKEND TESTS Analysts said it was too soon to say exactly what kind of missiles were involved in the latest launches, but the range would probably exceed that of most of the rockets North Korea fired on Saturday from its east coast into the ocean. "North Korea has returned to its classic escalation tactics from before," said Yang Uk, a senior research fellow at the Korea Defence and Security Forum. "I believe they will keep escalating by using what appear to be short-range missiles, something that will not cause the U.S. to react right away." Harry Kazianis, of Washington's Center for the National Interest think tank, said the new launches could only worsen tensions. "While this recent launch of short-range missiles does not violate Pyongyangs promise to halt longer-range tests, North Korea has now made it clear it will not halt developing other parts of its military capabilities that threaten the region," he said. "Kims goal, beyond ensuring his weapons programs are becoming more powerful, is quite clear: to show America and its allies that if they arent willing to compromise on the terms of denuclearisation." On Saturday, North Korea launched multiple rockets and at least one short-range ballistic missile. That was the North's first test of a ballistic missile since launching an intercontinental ballistic missile in November 2017 and sharply raising tension at a time of stalemate in its talks with the United States. This week, North Korea lashed out at the United States and South Korea, saying the weekend launches were "regular and self-defensive" and rejecting the notion that they were provocative. It criticised Seoul and Washington for carrying out military drills. Trump and his administration played down the weekend tests, and in a Twitter message on Saturday, the U.S. president said he was still confident he could reach a deal with Kim. Trump has previously held up a freeze in missile testing since 2017 as evidence of progress with North Korea, while he and Pompeo have brushed aside Kim's demand for Washington to show more flexibility in nuclear talks by the year-end. In 2017, after North Korea tested its most powerful intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) - which it said was capable of delivering a warhead to anywhere in the United States - Kim declared his nuclear force complete. He then extended an olive branch to Seoul and Washington, holding two summits with Trump and three with the South Korean president. A North Korean media report on Wednesday had hinted at the more tests, saying: "The south Korean military were astonished by the recent strike drill. It might fall into a swoon to see a strike drill involving more powerful cutting-edge weapons." (Reporting by Josh Smith and Hyonhee Shin; Additional reporting by Joyce Lee in Seoul, Elaine Lies in Tokyo and David Brunnstrom, Idrees Ali and Makini Brice in Washington Editing by Nick Macfie and Alistair Bell) Norwegian Cruise Line Sees No Danger on the Horizon The good times are here to stay, according to Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings CEO Frank Del Rio, as fears of a global economic downturn and industry oversupply recede into the background. Norwegian reported a 15 percent rise in first quarter profit to $118.2 million with revenue up 8.5 percent to $1.4 billion. The impressive start to the year means Norwegian expects to generate record earnings in 2019 and strong consumer demand is likely to carry on through the following year. As we have stated over the last few quarters, we continue to see a strong macroeconomic environmentand that fears of a near-term recession or downturn have greatly diminished, particularly in the United States as evidenced by strong first quarter GDP growth and recent Fed commentary, Del Rio said on an earnings call on Thursday. Norwegians decision to move ships out of the Chinese market and into North America also appears to be paying off. Fears of industry oversupply have also now subsided as the industry overall and Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings in particular, have shown their ability to successfully absorb new capacity coming online. But all this would not be possible without a confident consumer willing to spend money on vacation travel. Consumers across the globe continue to have a strong appetite for cruise. This is especially true here in North America where we maintain an advantage, given our strong sourcing in the region and a focus on global versus national brand and our exit from the lower yielding China market. Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings includes the Norwegian, Oceania, and Regent Seven Seas brands and has a 26 ships in its combined fleet. Del Rio said the company was increasingly taking a global approach to its onboard offering. Its Norwegian brand recently scrapped Premium All Inclusive package in Europe, designed at the time of its launch in 2017 to help boost bookings with the lure of free drinks, in favor of its more flexible Free At Sea offering. Story continues So far the change doesnt seem to have hurt the company. Results over the first five weeks of Free at Sea in the U.K. and Germany is an encouraging double-digit increase in booking volumes over the prior year, and even more over the first quarter of this year, at comparable net pricing from those two important source markets, despite the dampening influences of Brexit and other regional economic factors, Del Rio said. Cuba Update Last month the Trump administrations national security advisor John Bolton outlined potential changes to U.S. citizen travel to Cuba. Details remain fairly sketchy but it looks like change is coming with a Treasury Department spokesperson telling Skift that it would implement changes to non-family travel to Cuba in the coming months. Norwegian operates a number of itineraries to Cuba and Del Rio said it was business- as-usual until the company heard otherwise. Current regulations continue to allow for people to people travel, and we continue to follow and comply with any and all directives in the various agencies of the federal government. We expect more clarity sometime in the future regarding travel to Cuba, but in the meantime, we will continue to offer cruises to the island as planned. Subscribe to Skift newsletters covering the business of travel, restaurants, and wellness. The New York Times reported Tuesday that it acquired 10 years of information on President Donald Trump's tax returns from 1985 to 1994 and that the profile of his business dealings and financial transactions paints a much more dire picture of the self-promoting New York real estate mogul than what Trump himself states, with business losses totaling over $1 billion. The Story In an article titled "Decade in the Red," NYT reporters Russ Buettner and Susanne Craig said they have obtained and assessed the data from Trump's 1040 tax printout, revealing that in 1990 and 1991 alone, Trump lost $250 million in each of those years. Trump lost so much money that he was able to avoid paying any taxes at all for eight of the 10 years the NYT analyzed, the newspaper said. Trump's tax documents show business losses of more than $1 billion from 1985 to 1994, NYT said. While the Times did not obtain Trump's actual tax returns, it said it received the information from someone who had legal access to the returns, and then accessed a database to compare the findings with other top earners. Trump's Response The tax information is demonstrably false," Trump's attorney Charles Harder told the newspaper, adding that the statements about the presidents tax returns and business from 30 years ago are highly inaccurate. In response to the article, Trump fired back in a series of tweets stating that he always wanted to show losses for tax purposes and that it is a common practice among real estate developers. Related Links: How American Presidents Have Used Executive Privilege Trump Says GM Is Selling Lordstown Plant To Workhorse Photo via Wikimedia. See more from Benzinga 2019 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved. Occidental's jet just made another trip, setting off fresh speculation about its deal for Andarko Occidental Petroleum's corporate jet has traveled to The Hague, the home of Royal Dutch Shell. Shell has a joint venture with Anadarko Petroleum, which Occidental is trying to buy. The Occidental plane's earlier trip to Omaha tipped the market off to a pending investment from Berkshire Hathaway's Warren Buffett. Occidental Petroleum OXY 's recent jaunt to Omaha aboard a corporate jet presaged a $10 billion investment from Warren Buffett , and now the plane has traveled to the hometown of oil major Royal Dutch Shell RDSA-NL . This comes as Occidental is trying to finalize a deal to buy Anadarko Petroleum APC , which has a joint venture with Shell in the Permian Basin, the engine of the U.S. shale oil boom. On Monday, Anadarko said it intends to cancel a $33 billion deal to sell its business to Chevron CVX and instead sell its business to Occidental for $38 billion. Occidental's Gulfstream V has traveled to Rotterdam The Hague Airport in the Netherlands and was on the tarmac on Wednesday, a source told CNBC. The development was first reported by Bloomberg News . Occidental and Shell declined to comment on the voyage. It's unclear whether the two energy companies are meeting. However, Occidental's bid for Anadarko largely boils down to the latter's oil and gas assets in the Permian Basin, where Anadarko and Shell share acreage. The joint venture has been a source of friction between the two, but the companies avoided a messy divorce last year. Occidental's earlier trip to Nebraska tipped off investors that Occidental had something in the works with the Oracle of Omaha's Berkshire Hathaway BRK.A . Research firm Gordon Haskett flagged the journey, citing information from Quandl. Gordon Haskett told CNBC Wednesday it couldn't immediately confirm that the Occidental jet was in the Netherlands. The Gulfstream also made a recent trip to Paris, where French oil giant Total FP-FR is headquartered, Bloomberg reported. Occidental has agreed to sell Anadarko's African oil and gas assets to Total for $8.8 billion. Story continues CNBC's Eric Rosenbaum contributed to this story. WATCH: Occidental bid a bet on oil in long term More From CNBC By Barani Krishnan Investing.com - China will pay, says Donald Trump. Oil bulls are paying too. The U.S. president's latest salvo at Beijing as his administration prepared to carry through on his threat to more than double tariffs on $200 billion of Chinese goods reverberated from Wall Street to the oil market. West Texas Intermediate futures, the benchmark for U.S. crude, settled down 42 cents, or 0.7%, at $61.70 per barrel. London Brent futures, the global benchmark for oil, managed to finish the official trading session up 2 cents at $70.39. But it fell back in post-settlement trade, sliding 17 cents to $70.20 by 3:00 PM ET (19:00 GMT). Both WTI and Brent saw choppy trading through the day as worries about a collapse in U.S.-China trade negotiations faced off with concerns about outages in crude supply across the world. Trump says China broke the deal in trade talks with Washington and would face stiff tariffs if no agreement is reached. He wants to raise tariffs to 25% on $200 billion of Chinese imports, which are now at 10%. But Trump walked back his rhetoric some this afternoon, saying that a deal with China was still possible this week and that he had received a "beautiful" letter from Chinese Premier Xi Jinping. China's top trade negotiator, Vice Premier Liu He, was due to visit Washington on Thursday. China has vowed to hit back at the U.S., saying escalating trade frictions were not in the interest of either country or the world. For bulls like Phil Flynn of The Price Futures Group brokerage in Chicago, Thursday's market slide on the trade saber-rattling by Trump belied serious supply disruptions and geopolitical tensions associated with oil that should see the market rally instead. "Another wacky week in oil and it seems to get a bit wackier every day," Flynn said. He cited Wednesday's data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration reporting a crude stockpile drop of 4 million barrels last week, projectiles fired from North Korea, ongoing fighting in Libya and threats by Iran to shut down two of the worlds most important waterways: the Strait of Hormoz and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. Story continues "Iran has given Europe an ultimatum to get the U.S. off its back or it will backtrack out of the old nuclear deal and begin enriching uranium," Flynn added. "The EU, overnight, urged Iran to respect the nuclear deal, says it aims to continue trading with Islamic Republic despite U.S. sanctions." A survey from S&P Global) Platts released on Thursday showed that OPECs collective production held relatively steady in April. After four months of declines that tightened the oil market "considerably, output rose by just 30,000 barrels per day to 30.26 million bpd, Platts said. The survey found that production levels among members varied, with Saudi Arabia producing at a 15-month low, while Irans output fell to levels that were even lower than at previous times when it was under U.S. sanctions. Despite large increases in output from Iraq and Nigeria, compliance with the output restraint agreement was 116% for the 11 members with quotas. An oil contamination also forced Russia to halt flows along the Druzhba pipeline, a key conduit for crude into Eastern Europe and Germany, in April. The suspension left refiners scrambling to find supplies, and its duration is unclear. Polish officials expect the pipeline will be operating normally later this month. "While it is still difficult to assess the final impacts on balances, the severity of the problem could mean up to 400,000 bpd of Russian exports could be pulled out of the market for longer than earlier anticipated," analysts at Citi said. To analysts with a more neutral bias, it wasn't surprising to see the oil market respond to Wall Street's vagaries rather than the underlying supply-demand, especially when algorithmic trading models and momentum-sensitive hedge funds were leading the action. "The time-structure of oil markets are still supportive, the geopolitical risks are still very strong," said Olivier Jakob of Zug, Switzerland-based consultancy PetroMatrix. "But for now we cant escape from the Chinese headlines." Related Articles Gold Rises, Wins Back Top Spot from Palladium From Paris to Omaha: How Occidental CEO out-maneuvered Chevron in Anadarko bid OPEC in the dark on oil supply as Russia, Iran cut exports * Forecasts 2019/20 operating profit of 300 bln yen * Shift to corporate customers fails to spur growth * Panasonic, Toyota deepen ties with home tech venture (Adds CEO comments from press conference, background) By Makiko Yamazaki TOKYO, May 9 (Reuters) - Panasonic Corp warned profit this financial year would fall for the first time in eight years as costs to boost battery output rise and it moves to overhaul some businesses amid investor pressure to find new avenues of growth. The Japanese conglomerate expects operating profit for the year through March 2020 to slump 27 percent to 300 billion yen ($2.7 billion) from a year earlier. That is well below analyst expectations of a 12 percent decline, according to Refinitiv. The company is looking at a 15 billion yen loss at its automotive unit this year, it said on Thursday. Panasonic expects costs to ramp up battery production in Japan and China for a planned electric-vehicle (EV) battery joint venture with Toyota Motor Corp to weigh heavily. Panasonic switched its focus to corporate clients such as automakers a few years ago to escape price wars in lower-margin consumer electronics. The shift, which involved a vast migration of TV engineers to the automotive unit, helped the company restore profit growth, but its non-consumer businesses did not grow as fast as the company had hoped. "Over the last three years, we aimed for stable revenue and profit growth focusing mainly on the automotive business ... but development costs and insufficient abilities to adjust to rapid battery production expansion limited our profits," Panasonic President Kazuhiro Tsuga said. The business was also squeezed last year due to production delays for Tesla Inc's mass-market Model 3 sedan. Panasonic is Tesla's exclusive supplier of battery cells and industry watchers have said the Japanese company needs to cut its reliance on the U.S. electric carmaker. Elon Musk, Tesla's mercurial CEO, last month blamed Panasonic for the production delays. He previously said Tesla was looking for other battery suppliers for its new Shanghai car factory. Tsuga, however, told a post-earnings press conference on Thursday that Panasonic's relationship with Tesla remained good. Story continues "We are not just a supplier but a partner," he said. Panasonic is set to deepen its partnership with Toyota, announcing earlier on Thursday they would establish a joint company to develop "connected" services to be used in homes and urban development. Panasonic also said it would sell its solar battery research arm and a solar battery plant in Malaysia to China's GS-Solar for an undisclosed amount. ($1 = 109.9100 yen) (Reporting by Makiko Yamazaki; Editing by Sayantani Ghoshand and Mark Potter) Urges Shareholders to Vote For All Three of Companys Nominees on the WHITE Proxy Card DENVER, May 08, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- PDC Energy, Inc. (PDC or the Company) (PDCE) today filed a presentation in connection with its 2019 Annual Meeting of Stockholders (2019 Annual Meeting), scheduled for May 29, 2019. PDC shareholders of record as of the close of business on April 1, 2019 will be entitled to vote at the 2019 Annual Meeting. Highlights of the presentation include: PDC Energy has repositioned its portfolio and is executing a long-term strategy to capitalize on the Companys high-quality assets and operational capabilities to deliver superior returns for investors. PDC Energy has clearly articulated its 2019 operating plan and 2020 outlook, which are centered on financial discipline, free cash flow generation, and profitable growth. PDC Energys continually refreshed Board consists of independent and highly-qualified directors who bring diversity of thought and experience to the Company. The Companys three 2019 nominees bring significant experience in the E&P industry, including Colorado operations and regulatory and local relationships. The PDC Board and management team have a proven track record of delivering on commitments. Kimmeridges ideas demonstrate a fundamental misunderstanding of public company management and large-scale E&P operations and would not be in the best interests of shareholders. We are successfully executing our operating plan focused on financial discipline, profitable growth and free cash flow generation, said President and Chief Executive Officer, Bart Brookman. PDCs refreshed, independent and highly qualified Board brings diversity of thought and experience critical to our Company and is the right team to oversee the progress underway. We look forward to continuing our dialogue with investors in the coming weeks and urge all PDC shareholders to vote the white proxy card. The Companys presentation and additional materials regarding the Boards recommendation for the 2019 Annual Meeting can be found at https://votewhiteforpdc.com . Story continues EVERY SHAREHOLDERS VOTE IS EXTREMELY IMPORTANT, NO MATTER HOW MANY SHARES ARE OWNED. Shareholders who have questions or require any assistance voting their shares should contact PDC Energys proxy solicitor: MacKenzie Partners, Inc. Stockholders may call toll-free: (800) 322-2885 Banks and Brokers may call collect: (212) 929-5500 About PDC Energy, Inc. PDC Energy, Inc. is a domestic independent exploration and production company that acquires, explores and develops properties for the production of crude oil, natural gas and NGLs, with operations in the Wattenberg Field in Colorado and the Delaware Basin in Reeves and Culberson Counties, Texas. PDCs operations are focused in the horizontal Niobrara and Codell plays in the Wattenberg Field and in the Wolfcamp zones in the Delaware Basin. NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 ("Securities Act"), Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 ("Exchange Act") and the United States ("U.S.") Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 regarding our business, strategy, the 2019 Annual Meeting, and potential nominees for the board of directors. All statements other than statements of historical fact included in and incorporated by reference into this report are "forward-looking statements." Words such as expect, anticipate, intend, plan, believe, seek, estimate and similar expressions or variations of such words are intended to identify forward-looking statements herein. Although forward-looking statements contained in this press release reflect our good faith judgment, such statements can only be based on facts and factors currently known to us. Forward-looking statements are always subject to risks and uncertainties, and become subject to greater levels of risk and uncertainty as they address matters further into the future. Because such statements relate to events or conditions further in the future, they are subject to increased levels of uncertainty. Further, we urge you to carefully review and consider the cautionary statements and disclosures, specifically those under the heading "Risk Factors," made in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2018 filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") on February 28, 2019, and other filings with the SEC for further information on risks and uncertainties that could affect our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects, which are incorporated by this reference as though fully set forth herein. We caution you not to place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this press release. We undertake no obligation to update any forward-looking statements in order to reflect any event or circumstance occurring after the date of this press release or currently unknown facts or conditions or the occurrence of unanticipated events. All forward-looking statements are qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION PDC has filed a definitive proxy statement and WHITE proxy card with the SEC in connection with its solicitation of proxies for the 2019 Annual Meeting. PDC SHAREHOLDERS ARE STRONGLY ENCOURAGED TO READ THE DEFINITIVE PROXY STATEMENT (AND ANY AMENDMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTS THERETO) AND ACCOMPANYING WHITE PROXY CARD AS THEY CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION. Shareholders may obtain the proxy statement, any amendments or supplements to the proxy statement and other documents as and when filed by PDC with the SEC without charge from the SECs website at www.sec.gov. Investors and shareholders can also obtain, without charge, a copy of the definitive proxy statement and other relevant filed documents from PDCs website at http://investor.pdce.com/sec-filings. CERTAIN INFORMATION REGARDING PARTICIPANTS PDC, its directors and certain of its executive officers may be deemed to be participants in connection with the solicitation of proxies from PDCs shareholders in connection with the matters to be considered at the 2019 Annual Meeting. Information regarding the identity of potential participants, and their direct or indirect interests, by security holdings or otherwise, is set forth in the proxy statement and other materials to be filed with the SEC. These documents can be obtained free of charge from the sources indicated above. Contacts: Investors Michael Edwards Senior Director Investor Relations 303-860-5820 michael.edwards@pdce.com Media Joele Frank, Wilkinson Brimmer Katcher Andy Brimmer / Andrew Siegel 212-355-4449 Thank you for reading! Please log in, or sign up for a new account and purchase a subscription to continue reading. First Quarter 2019 Net Sales Increased 29% Year-Over-Year to $148.4 Million Reiterates Full Year 2019 Outlook Enters Into Definitive Agreement to Acquire Perrigo Animal Health EAGLE, Idaho, May 08, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- PetIQ, Inc. (PetIQ or the Company) (PETQ), a leading pet medication and wellness company, today reported financial results for the three months ended March 31, 2019. First Quarter 2019 Highlights Compared to Prior Year Period Record first quarter net sales of $148.4 million, an increase of 29% Net income of $2.3 million compared to a net loss of $4.0 million Adjusted net income $6.0 million compared to $1.4 million Adjusted EBITDA of $10.9 million compared to $5.6 million, an increase of 94% Cash and cash equivalents of $54.4 million with total liquidity of $107.3 million Enters Into Definitive Agreement to Acquire Perrigo Animal Health Cord Christensen, PetIQs Chairman and Chief Executive Officer commented, The strength of our diversified animal health products and services business fueled our first quarter financial results, outperforming the broader pet health and wellness category. We generated record quarterly net sales growth with increases across all sales channels as a result of our complementary veterinarian product and service offerings. The demand for PetIQs affordable and accessible pet products and veterinarian services is strong and we remain committed to expanding our position to fuel our future growth and value for our shareholders. Mr. Christensen continued, At PetIQ our mission is to make pets lives better through improved access to affordable pet health care and we are excited to have reached a definitive agreement to acquire Perrigo Animal Health. We believe this strategic and accretive acquisition will further the execution of our Follow the Pets long-term strategy by expanding the depth and breadth of veterinarian products offering as we build upon our existing business momentum to grow sales and importantly, grow the animal health and wellness category for many years to come. Story continues First Quarter 2019 Financial Results Net sales increased 29% to $148.4 million for the first quarter of 2019, compared to $115.1 million for the same period in the prior year. Product segment net sales were $126.1 million and Services segment revenues were $22.4 million in the first quarter of 2019. The increase in consolidated net sales reflects growth in existing retail partners, driven by the increase in the number of pet parents moving their pet health care needs to PetIQs products and services, the expansion of item counts and programs at existing customers, as well as growth within the Services segment and ownership of VIP for the full period. Pro forma sales as if VIP had been owned for the full period of 2018 would have grown 26%. Gross profit was $24.7 million, an increase of 56%, compared to $15.9 million in the same period last year. Gross margin for the quarter was 16.7%. Adjusted gross profit was $26.2 million and adjusted gross margin was 17.6% for the first quarter 2019. The GAAP gross margin to adjusted gross margin difference of 90 basis points is a result of the exclusion of non-same-store Services segment revenue contribution and related costs of sales. Net income was $2.3 million and adjusted net income was $6.0 million for the first quarter of 2019. Adjusted net income primarily excludes stock-based compensation expense, tax expense, fair value adjustment to contingent note, acquisition expenses, and operating losses associated with the 25 non-comparable newly opened veterinary wellness centers, one new host partner, and seven regional offices that have been open less than six trailing quarters. First quarter adjusted EBITDA increased 95% to $10.9 million, representing an adjusted EBITDA margin of 7.3%, compared to $5.6 million, representing a 4.9% margin, for the same period in the prior year. The increase in adjusted EBITDA was a result of higher net sales resulting in increased adjusted gross profit and increased leverage of general and administrative expenses. Adjusted gross profit, adjusted net income, and adjusted EBITDA are non-GAAP financial measures. The Company believes these non-GAAP financial measures provide investors with additional insight into and measurement of its entry into the veterinary services business following the acquisition of VIP in January 2018. In the Services segment, the Company is providing a same-store sales adjustment to reflect revenue and costs for veterinary clinics and regions open for at least six trailing quarters. The Company believes this will provide useful information to investors as these veterinary clinics and wellness centers mature and move into the comparable store base. See Non-GAAP Measures for a definition of these measures and the financial tables that accompany this release for a reconciliation to the most comparable GAAP measure. Segment Results Products: For the first quarter of 2019, the Product segment net sales increased 29% to $126.1 million and operating income increased 45% to $13.0 million. This compares to Product segment sales and operating income of $97.9 million and $8.9 million, respectively, for the first quarter of 2018. Product segment net sales were driven by ongoing strength of the Companys prescription drug programs within retail partner pharmacies both in-store and online, as well as greater SKU penetration within existing accounts. Services: For the first quarter of 2019, the Services segment net revenues and operating income were $22.4 million and $3.0 million, respectively. This compares to Service segment net revenues and operating income of $17.2 million and a loss of $0.4 million, respectively, for the first quarter of 2018. Services segment growth was achieved from increases in all substantive metrics including pets per clinic, revenue per pet and revenue per clinic. In-line with the PetIQs new veterinarian wellness centers opening plan for 2019 it did not have any new openings during the first quarter of 2019 and remains on track to open 80 new wellness centers in 2019. There were a total of 34 veterinarian wellness centers as of March 31, 2019. In preparation for its veterinarian wellness center expansion, the Company opened two new regional offices during the quarter for a total of 36 at the end of the first quarter of 2019. Cash and Debt As of March 31, 2019, the Company had cash and cash equivalents of $54.4 million, plus availability on its revolving credit facility of $52.9 million, equating to $107.3 million, which the Company defines as total liquidity. The Companys long-term debt balance, which is largely comprised of its revolving credit facility and term loan, was $115.3 million as of March 31, 2019. From a working capital perspective, accounts receivable increased $20.5 million compared to December 31, 2018, in line with the Companys strong sales growth. Inventory increased $20.4 million compared to the prior year as a result of inventory needed to support the growth in the Companys business. Enters Into Definitive Agreement to Acquire Perrigo Animal Health The Company also announced today in a separate press release that it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Perrigo Animal Health, a division of Perrigo Company plc (PRGO); (PRGO.TA), including products sold under brands such as PetArmor, Sentry, and Sergeants. Perrigo Animal Health provides vet quality solutions to consumers at retail with a commitment to making high quality, affordable pet care products for animals and their owners. The $185 million cash transaction has been unanimously approved by PetIQs Board of Directors. The purchase price reflects an adjusted EBITDA multiple of 9.0x, based on estimated fiscal year 2020, including potential run-rate cost synergies. PetIQ plans to finance the transaction with $25 million of existing cash on hand, $145 million of new term loan financing committed by Ares Capital Management, with the remaining balance to be financed through PetIQs existing revolving credit facility with East West Bank. Pro forma for the transaction, net debt-to-Adjusted EBITDA leverage ratio is expected to be approximately 4.5x1. PetIQ is committed to reducing the leverage at closing using a combination of organic growth and free cash flow. PetIQ expects to realize cash tax savings related to the depreciation and amortization of assets acquired, of approximately $18 million on a present value basis. PetIQ expects that this acquisition will be accretive to earnings in the first twelve months following closing, and thereafter. This transaction is expected to close during the third quarter of 2019, subject to customary closing conditions, including the receipt of U.S. anti-trust approval. 1 Pro forma net leverage defined as PetIQs net debt as of March 31, 2019 as adjusted for the proposed transaction, covered by expected 2019 Pro forma Adjusted EBITDA. Outlook PetIQ is reiterating its full year 2019 financial outlook for its existing product and services business on a stand-alone basis and will provide a 2019 annual and long-term outlook including the contribution from Perrigo Animal Health post-closing of the transaction. On a standalone basis or the full year 2019 the Company continues to expect the following: Consolidated net sales of at least $600 million, an increase greater than 14% from growth of 98% in 2018 Adjusted EBITDA* of at least $51 million, an increase greater than 23% from growth of 86% in 2018 The opening of at least 80 veterinarian wellness clinics For full year 2020 based on the combination of PetIQ and Perrigo Animal Health the Company is introducing the following outlook: Consolidated net sales of approximately $780 million Adjusted EBITDA* of approximately $78 million The Company is reiterating its long-term 2023 growth objectives on a stand-alone basis, including: Net sales of approximately $1.0 billion Adjusted EBITDA margin of greater than 15% * Wellness center locations of 1,000 *The Company does not provide guidance for the most directly comparable GAAP measure, net income, and similarly cannot provide a reconciliation between its forecasted adjusted EBITDA and net income metrics without unreasonable effort due to the unavailability of reliable estimates for certain items. These items are not within the Companys control and may vary greatly between periods and could significantly impact future financial results. Conference Call and Webcast The Company will host a conference call and webcast where members of the executive management team will discuss these results with additional comments and details today, May 8, 2019, at 4:30 p.m. ET. The conference call and supplemental investor presentation will be available live over the Internet through the Investors section of the Companys website at www.PetIQ.com. To participate on the live call listeners in North America may dial 855-327-6837 and international listeners may dial 631-891-4304. A replay of the conference call will be archived on the Companys website and telephonic playback will be available through May 29, 2019. North American listeners may dial 844-512-2921 and international listeners may dial 412-317-6671 the passcode is 10006676. About PetIQ PetIQ is a leading, rapidly growing pet health and wellness company. Through over 60,000 points of distribution across retail and e-commerce channels, PetIQ and VIP Petcare, a wholly-owned subsidiary, have a mission to make pet lives better by educating pet parents on the importance of offering regular, convenient access and affordable choices for pet preventive and wellness veterinary products and services. PetIQ believes that pets are an important part of the family and deserve the best products and care we can give them. For more information, visit www.PetIQ.com . Forward Looking Statements This press release contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties, such as statements about our plans, objectives, expectations, assumptions or future events. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by terminology such as "anticipate," "estimate," "plan," "project," "continuing," "ongoing," "expect," "believe," "intend," "may," "will," "should," "could" and similar expressions. Forward-looking statements involve estimates, assumptions, known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from any future results, performances, or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements should not be read as a guarantee of future performance or results, and will not necessarily be accurate indications of the times at, or by, which such performance or results will be achieved. Forward-looking statements are based on information available at the time those statements are made or management's good faith belief as of that time with respect to future events, and are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual performance or results to differ materially from those expressed in or suggested by the forward-looking statements. Important factors that could cause such differences include, but are not limited to, our ability to successfully grow our business through acquisitions; our dependency on a limited number of customers; our ability to implement our growth strategy effectively; disruptions in our manufacturing and distribution chains; competition from veterinarians and others in our industry; reputational damage to our brands; economic trends and spending on pets; the effectiveness of our marketing and trade promotion programs; recalls or withdrawals of our products or product liability claims; our ability to manage our manufacturing and supply chain effectively; disruptions in our manufacturing and distribution chains; our ability to introduce new products and improve existing products; our failure to protect our intellectual property; costs associated with governmental regulation; our ability to keep and retain key employees; our ability to sustain profitability; and the risks set forth under the Risk Factors of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2018 and other reports filed time to time with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Additional risks and uncertainties not currently known to us or that we currently deem to be immaterial also may materially adversely affect our business, financial condition or operating results. The forward-looking statements speak only as of the date on which they are made, and, except as required by law, we undertake no obligation to update any forward-looking statement to reflect events or circumstances after the date on which the statement is made or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events. In addition, we cannot assess the impact of each factor on our business or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statements. Consequently, you should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Non-GAAP Financial Measures In addition to financial results reported in accordance with U.S. GAAP, PetIQ uses the following non-GAAP financial measures: Adjusted net income (loss), Adjusted gross profit, Adjusted EBITDA, and Adjusted EBITDA Margin. Adjusted net income consists of GAAP Net income (loss) adjusted for tax expense, acquisition expenses, purchase accounting adjustments, integration costs and costs of discontinued clinics, new clinic launch expense, and stock based compensation expense. Adjusted Net Income is utilized by management: (i) to compare operations of the Company prior to our initial public offering and (ii) to evaluate the effectiveness of our business strategies. Adjusted gross profit consists of GAAP gross profit adjusted for purchase accounting adjustments, gross profit (loss) on veterinarian clinics and wellness centers that are not part of same store sales, and new clinic launch expense. Adjusted gross profit is utilized by management to evaluate the effectiveness of our business strategies. EBITDA represents net income (loss) before interest, income taxes, and depreciation and amortization. Adjusted EBITDA represents EBITDA plus acquisition costs, stock based compensation expense, purchase accounting, inventory adjustment, fair value adjustment to contingent consideration, new clinic launch expenses, integration and costs of discontinued clinics, and operations of non-same-store operations as defined below. Adjusted EBITDA Margin is Adjusted EBITDA stated as a percentage of Net sales. Adjusted EBITDA is utilized by management: (i) as a factor in evaluating management's performance when determining incentive compensation and (ii) to evaluate the effectiveness of our business strategies. The Company presents EBITDA because it is a necessary component for computing Adjusted EBITDA. We believe that the use of Adjusted Net income, Adjusted gross profit, Adjusted EBITDA, and Adjusted EBITDA margin provide additional tools for investors to use in evaluating ongoing operating results and trends. In addition, you should be aware when evaluating Adjusted Net Income, adjusted gross profit, Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA margin, that in the future we may incur expenses similar to those excluded when calculating these measures. Our presentation of these measures should not be construed as an inference that our future results will be unaffected by these or other unusual or non-recurring items. Our computation of Adjusted Net Income, adjusted gross profit, Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA margin may not be comparable to other similarly titled measures computed by other companies, because all companies do not calculate Adjusted Net Income, adjusted gross profit, Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA margin in the same manner. Our management does not, and you should not, consider Adjusted Net Income, adjusted gross profit or Adjusted EBITDA in isolation or as an alternative to financial measures determined in accordance with GAAP. The principal limitation of Adjusted Net Income, adjusted gross profit and Adjusted EBITDA is that they exclude significant expenses and income that are required by GAAP to be recorded in our financial statements. See a reconciliation of Non-GAAP measures to the most comparable GAAP measure, in the financial tables that accompany this release. The Company considers its same-store portfolio to consist of only those retail service regional offices, mobile community clinics provided within host partners, and wellness centers that have been operating for at least six trailing quarters. Definitions Mobile community clinic A mobile community clinic is defined as an event, or a visit to a retail host partner location, by the Companys veterinary staff utilizing the Companys mobile service vehicles. Clinic locations and schedules vary by location and seasonally. Due to the non-standardization of the Companys mobile community clinics, these clinics are grouped as part of geographic regions. New regions and host partners are excluded from the same store sale calculation until they have six full consecutive quarters of operations. Veterinarian Wellness center A veterinarian wellness center is a physical fixed service location within the existing footprint of one of our retail partners. These veterinarian wellness centers operate under a variety of brands based on the needs of our partner locations, including the recently launched VetIQ clinics at Walmart. Regional offices Regional offices support the operations of the Companys services segment which include its mobile veterinarian community clinics and wellness centers. These offices are staffed with field management and other operational staff. CONTACT: Investor Relations Contact: Media Relations Contact: ICR Katie Turner katie.turner@icrinc.com Jeff Sonnek 646-277-1263 jeff.sonnek@icrinc.com ICR Cory Ziskind cory.ziskind@icrinc.com 646-277-1232 PetIQ, Inc. Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (Unaudited, $s in 000s except for share and per share amounts) March 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Current assets Cash and cash equivalents $ 54,367 $ 66,360 Accounts receivable, net 65,466 45,007 Inventories 112,539 92,142 Other current assets 4,313 4,212 Total current assets 236,685 207,721 Property, plant and equipment, net 26,811 27,335 Operating lease right of use assets 9,860 Deferred tax assets 46,585 43,946 Other non-current assets 2,667 2,857 Intangible assets, net 87,366 88,546 Goodwill 125,279 125,029 Total assets $ 535,253 $ 495,434 Liabilities and equity Current liabilities Accounts payable $ 71,023 $ 54,768 Accrued wages payable 4,158 5,295 Accrued interest payable 607 728 Other accrued expenses 919 1,154 Current portion of operating leases 2,862 Current portion of long-term debt and finance leases 2,446 2,251 Total current liabilities 82,015 64,196 Operating leases, less current installments 7,170 Long-term debt 115,274 107,418 Finance leases, less current installments 1,944 2,319 Other non-current liabilities 268 524 Total non-current liabilities 124,656 110,261 Commitments and contingencies Equity Additional paid-in capital 272,916 262,219 Class A common stock, par value $0.001 per share, 125,000,000 shares authorized, 22,156,706 and 21,619,875 shares issued and outstanding at March 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018, respectively 22 22 Class B common stock, par value $0.001 per share, 100,000,000 shares authorized, 6,027,847 and 6,546,791 shares issued and outstanding at March 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018, respectively 6 7 Accumulated deficit (2,839 ) (4,450 ) Accumulated other comprehensive loss (941 ) (1,316 ) Total stockholders' equity 268,164 256,481 Non-controlling interest 60,418 64,496 Total equity 328,582 320,977 Total liabilities and equity $ 535,253 $ 495,434 PetIQ, Inc. Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income (Unaudited, $s in 000s, except for per share amounts) Three Months Ended March 31, 2019 March 31, 2018 Product sales $ 126,084 $ 97,851 Services revenue 22,352 17,215 Total net sales 148,436 115,066 Cost of products sold 108,064 84,586 Cost of services 15,642 14,597 Total cost of sales 123,706 99,183 Gross profit 24,730 15,883 Operating expenses General and administrative expenses 20,538 18,968 Contingent note revaluations (gain) loss (680 ) 141 Operating income (loss) 4,872 (3,226 ) Interest expense, net (1,937 ) (1,765 ) Foreign currency loss, net (122 ) (78 ) Other income, net 13 45 Total other expense, net (2,046 ) (1,798 ) Pretax net income (loss) 2,826 (5,024 ) Income tax (expense) benefit (500 ) 1,067 Net income (loss) 2,326 (3,957 ) Net income (loss) attributable to non-controlling interest 715 (1,929 ) Net income (loss) attributable to PetIQ, Inc. $ 1,611 $ (2,028 ) Net income (loss) per share attributable to PetIQ, Inc. Class A common stock -Basic $ 0.07 (0.14 ) -Diluted $ 0.07 (0.14 ) Weighted Average shares of Class A common stock outstanding -Basic 21,800,033 14,574,883 -Diluted 21,977,898 14,574,883 PetIQ, Inc. Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (Unaudited, $s in 000s) For the Three Months Ended March 31, 2019 2018 Cash flows from operating activities Net income (loss) $ 2,326 $ (3,957 ) Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash used in operating activities Depreciation and amortization of intangible assets and loan fees 3,091 2,522 Foreign exchange (gain) loss on liabilities 53 (Gain) Loss on disposition of property, plant, and equipment (34 ) (20 ) Stock based compensation expense 1,544 698 Deferred tax adjustment 500 (1,067 ) Contingent note revaluations (680 ) 141 Other non-cash activity 17 (334 ) Changes in assets and liabilities Accounts receivable (20,444 ) (28,997 ) Inventories (20,366 ) (27,238 ) Prepaid expenses and other assets 21 16 Accounts payable 17,335 22,508 Accrued wages payable (1,150 ) (482 ) Other accrued expenses (359 ) (2,274 ) Net cash used in operating activities (18,199 ) (38,431 ) Cash flows from investing activities Proceeds from disposition of property, plant, and equipment 47 57 Purchase of property, plant, and equipment (897 ) (2,224 ) Business acquisitions (net of cash acquired) (91,986 ) Net cash used in investing activities (850 ) (94,153 ) Cash flows from financing activities Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt 134,134 162,278 Principal payments on long-term debt (125,717 ) (59,533 ) Tax Distributions to LLC Owners (1,378 ) (540 ) Principal payments on finance lease obligations (371 ) (242 ) Payment of deferred financing fees and debt discount (50 ) (2,613 ) Exercise of options to purchase common stock 315 Net cash provided by financing activities 6,933 99,350 Net change in cash and cash equivalents (12,116 ) (33,234 ) Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents 123 52 Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period 66,360 37,896 Cash and cash equivalents, end of period $ 54,367 $ 4,714 PetIQ, Inc. Segment Results (Unaudited, $s in 000s) $'s in 000's March 31, 2019 Products Services Corporate Consolidated Net Sales $ 126,084 $ 22,352 $ $ 148,436 Operating income (loss) 13,003 3,017 (11,148 ) 4,872 Depreciation expense 553 524 576 1,653 Amortization expense $ $ $ 1,279 $ 1,279 $'s in 000's March 31, 2018 Products Services Corporate Consolidated Net Sales $ 97,851 $ 17,215 $ $ 115,066 Operating income (loss) 8,949 (356 ) (11,819 ) (3,226 ) Depreciation expense 462 547 241 1,250 Amortization expense $ $ $ 1,140 $ 1,140 PetIQ, Inc. Reconciliation between gross profit and adjusted gross profit (Unaudited, $s in 000s) For the three months ended March 31, 2019 March 31, 2018 Gross profit $ 24,730 $ 15,883 Plus: Purchase accounting adjustment to inventory 1,502 Non same-store gross loss 1,435 167 Adjusted gross profit $ 26,165 $ 17,552 PetIQ, Inc. Reconciliation between Net Income (loss) and Adjusted EBITDA (Unaudited, $s in 000s) For the three months ended March 31, 2019 March 31, 2018 Net income (loss) $ 2,326 $ (3,957 ) Plus: Tax expense (benefit) 500 (1,067 ) Depreciation 1,654 1,250 Amortization 1,279 1,140 Interest 1,937 1,765 EBITDA $ 7,696 $ (869 ) Acquisition costs(1) 576 3,215 Stock based compensation expense 1,544 698 Purchase accounting adjustment to inventory 1,502 Non same-store revenue(2) (1,516 ) (221 ) Non same-store costs(2) 3,252 388 Fair value adjustment of contingent note (680 ) 141 Integration costs and costs of discontinued clinics 371 Clinic launch expenses(3) 365 Adjusted EBITDA $ 10,872 $ 5,590 7.3 % 4.9 % (1) Acquisition costs relating to the various acquisitions, including completed and contemplated transactions. (2) Non same-store revenue and costs are from wellness centers, host partners, and regions with less than six full trailing quarters of operating results. There were 25 wellness centers, 6 regions, and one new host partner that had less than six trailing quarters of operating results for the three months March 31, 2019 and six wellness centers and 2 regions for the three months ended March 31, 2018. (3) Clinic launch expenses represent the nonrecurring costs to open new veterinary wellness centers, primarily employee costs, training, marketing, and rent prior to opening for business. PetIQ, Inc. Reconciliation between Net Income (loss) and Adjusted Net Income (Unaudited, $s in 000s) Three months ended March 31, 2019 March 31, 2018 Net income (loss) $ 2,326 $ (3,957 ) Plus: Acquisition costs(1) 576 3,215 Tax expense (benefit) 500 (1,067 ) Stock based compensation expense 1,544 698 Purchase accounting adjustment to inventory 1,502 Non same-store revenue(2) (1,516 ) (221 ) Non same-store costs(2) 3,252 388 Fair value adjustment of contingent note (680 ) 141 Integration costs and costs of discontinued clinics 371 New clinic launch expenses(3) 365 Adjusted Net income $ 6,002 $ 1,435 PASCAGOULA, Miss., May 08, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Huntington Ingalls Industries (HII) Ingalls Shipbuilding division hosted a signing day ceremony on Tuesday for the 2019 graduates of its Shipbuilder Academy program. Twenty-six high school seniors were offered full-time positions at Ingalls after successfully completing the specialized career technical education (CTE) program. For more than 80 years, Ingalls has provided the families of our communities the opportunity to learn relevant job skills and build successful careers, said George S. Jones, Ingalls vice president of operations. Signing day is a continuation of that legacy. Todays event is the culmination of the good decisions made by the students and their families during their high school careers, by choosing to pursue career technical education and learn marketable trade skills. The students being honored today will join more than 11,000 employees of Ingalls Shipbuilding who are proud to be building the greatest ships in the world. A photo accompanying this release is available at: https://newsroom.huntingtoningalls.com/file/ingalls-signing-day-2019?action= . Upon graduation, the students will enter the Ingalls workforce as entry-level skilled craftsmen. The students were honored with a signing day ceremony they attended with their parents, much like high school athletes announcing their intended school. Shipbuilder Academy was established in 2016 with a mission to provide enrolled students with a strong foundation in the maritime industry and fill the current industry skills gap. The program, now entering its fourth year, has expanded to Mobile County and enrolls students from eight different high schools along the Gulf Coast, including Pascagoula, Gautier, Moss Point, East Central, Vancleave, St. Martin, Ocean Springs and Alma Bryant. So far 131 students have successfully completed the program and obtained National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) certifications. Story continues Huntington Ingalls Industries is Americas largest military shipbuilding company and a provider of professional services to partners in government and industry. For more than a century, HIIs Newport News and Ingalls shipbuilding divisions in Virginia and Mississippi have built more ships in more ship classes than any other U.S. naval shipbuilder. HIIs Technical Solutions division provides a wide range of professional services through its Fleet Support, Mission Driven Innovative Solutions, Nuclear & Environmental, and Oil & Gas groups. Headquartered in Newport News, Virginia, HII employs more than 40,000 people operating both domestically and internationally. For more information, visit: HII on the web: www.huntingtoningalls.com HII on Facebook: www.facebook.com/HuntingtonIngallsIndustries HII on Twitter: twitter.com/hiindustries Contact: Bill Glenn william.glenn@hii-co.com 228-935-1323 PriceSmart, Inc. PSMT comparable warehouse sales (comps) in April the four-week period (ended Apr 28, 2019) for the 40 warehouse clubs fell 0.5%, following a 1% decline in March. Comps for February and January declined 1.9% and 1.4%, respectively. Notably, foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations adversely impacted April comps by 4%. For the thirty-four-week period (ended Apr 28, 2019), comps declined 1.3%. Foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations negatively impacted comps by 3.2%. However, giving some respite was net merchandise sales that increased 0.9% to $242.5 million from $240.3 million in the year-ago period. Net merchandise sales were adversely impacted by $9.6 million or 4% due to currency rate fluctuations. In the preceding month, the company posted net merchandise sales growth of 0.1%, while for February the metric remained flat. In January, net merchandise sales improved 0.3%. Net merchandise sales improved 0.4% to $2,071 million for the eight months (ended Apr 30, 2019) from $2,063.6 million in the same period last year. Foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations hurt net merchandise sales by $67.5 million or 3.3%. Apart from comps sales, the company took the opportunity to announce that it opened a new warehouse club in Santiago de Veraguas, Panama. Notably, this is the company's sixth warehouse club in Panama. It now operates 42 warehouse clubs. Bottom Line Certainly, dismal comps run have a direct bearing on the companys share performance. In the past six months, shares of this Zacks Rank #4 (Sell) company have lost approximately 14% compared with the industry's decline of 0.1%. We note that comparable net merchandise sales in the second quarter of fiscal 2019 dipped 0.9%. Adverse currency fluctuations negatively impacted comparable net merchandise sales by 3.7%. Moreover, year-over-year decline in the bottom line and cost-related hurdles have been hurting the stocks performance on the bourses. Story continues In spite of these concerns, PriceSmarts strategy to sell limited products at lower prices helped it generate member loyalty. Moreover, this operator of membership warehouse clubs healthy membership renewal rate reflects its strength. 3 Stocks to Watch Dollar Tree, Inc. DLTR has a long-term earnings growth rate of 9.8% and a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). You can see the complete list of todays Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here. The TJX Companies, Inc. TJX has a long-term earnings growth rate of 10.9% and a Zacks Rank #2. Target Corporation TGT has a long-term earnings growth rate of 6.3% and a Zacks Rank #2. This Could Be the Fastest Way to Grow Wealth in 2019 Research indicates one sector is poised to deliver a crop of the best-performing stocks you'll find anywhere in the market. Breaking news in this space frequently creates quick double- and triple-digit profit opportunities. These companies are changing the world and owning their stocks could transform your portfolio in 2019 and beyond. Recent trades from this sector have generated +98%, +119% and +164% gains in as little as 1 month. Click here to see these 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 Target Corporation (TGT) : Free Stock Analysis Report PriceSmart, Inc. (PSMT) : Free Stock Analysis Report Dollar Tree, Inc. (DLTR) : Free Stock Analysis Report The TJX Companies, Inc. (TJX) : Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Zacks Investment Research Zwolle, 09th May 2019 RoodMicrotec N.V., a leading independent company for semiconductors supply and quality services, today announces its intention to enter into a long-term supply chain partnership with CoreHW, a Finnish fabless semiconductor company offering state-of-the-art full custom IC turnkey solutions, IP and design services as well as own IC products. Mr. Tomi-Pekka Takalo, CEO of CoreHW, and Mr. Martin Sallenhag, CEO of RoodMicrotec, have signed a Letter of Intent expressing their commitment to enter into a long-term partnership. CoreHW will use the capabilities and services of RoodMicrotec for back-end manufacturing of full custom RF, analog and mixed-signal IC as well as catalog IC products, designed and marketed by CoreHW. RoodMicrotec, on the other hand, will develop the test solutions, including test software and interface hardware, execute product qualification as per desired industry standard and run mass production, including wafer sort, package assembly, final test and end-of-line services. In addition, RoodMicrotec will include CoreHW as partner in their design partner network for ASIC turnkey business, specifically for advanced wireless applications. This partnership is based on core strengths of the two companies and both sides will take full advantage of it. RoodMicrotec and its network of manufacturing partners are providing a strong basis for a competitive supply of CoreHWs advanced products. Furthermore, the company is adding another high profile customer to its broad list of supply chain partners. Martin Sallenhag says: We are very pleased with this step forward in developing a lasting and fruitful partnership between our companies. From here onward, we will continue to negotiate the detailed terms and conditions to reach a formal agreement during 2019. Tomi-Pekka Takalo says: Engaging with the right partner for back-end manufacturing and supply chain services is of strategic importance to us. We are pleased to have identified RoodMicrotec as partner for the future growth of our business. We look forward to a successful and long-lasting collaboration between our companies. Story continues About CoreHW CoreHW is a fabless Semiconductor Company, developing state-of-the-art integrated circuits for customers worldwide. CoreHW focuses on the development of advanced integrated circuits for wireless data transmission, sensor interfaces and IoT applications. CoreHW is headquartered in Tampere, Finland with design centers in Oulu, Turku and Helsinki, Finland. Further information on CoreHW at http://www.corehw.com About RoodMicrotec RoodMicrotec is a leading independent company for semiconductor supply and quality services. With 50 years of experience in the semiconductor and electronics industry, RoodMicrotec is well-established as a highly valued partner for many companies worldwide. The company provides full-turnkey ASIC services for complex microchips that are customized to handle specific applications for individual customers. In cooperation with strong partners, RoodMicrotec manages the entire development and production flow of ASICs in the target volume, ranging from low quantities up to multiple millions per year. The turnkey solution includes project management, wafer test, assembly, final test, qualification, failure analysis and logistics. All services comply with the industrial and quality requirements of the high reliability, aerospace, automotive, healthcare and industrial sectors. RoodMicrotecs headquarter is located in Zwolle, Netherlands, with operational units in Nordlingen and Stuttgart, Germany. For more information visit https://www.roodmicrotec.com Further information Martin Sallenhag - CEO, Reinhard Pusch - COO, Arvid Ladega - CFO Telephone: +31 38 4215216 Email: investor-relations@roodmicrotec.com Web: www.roodmicrotec.com This press release is published in English, Dutch and German. In case of conflict between these versions the English version shall prevail. This communication contains information that qualifies as inside information within the meaning of Article 7(1) of the EU Market Abuse Regulation. The companys managing director and CEO Martin Sallenhag, is responsible for arranging for the release of this document on behalf of RoodMicrotec. Attachment Royal Caribbean International wants vacationers to have the perfect day on its $250 million private island in the Bahamas that includes the tallest waterslide in North America. The cruise line opened its private island, called Perfect Day at CocoCay, on Monday with over-the-top features such as the 135-foot-tall waterslide, a helium balloon to take guests 450 feet in the air and a 1,600-foot zipline. With Perfect Day at CocoCay, we are so proud to bring our 50-year legacy of innovation ashore to transform an incredible island that now completely revolutionizes private destinations in the vacation industry, Royal Caribbean International CEO Michael Bayley said in a news release. It is exciting to see what we have dreamed up finally come to life; our guests truly are in for an experience unlike any other. The private island seeks to lure guests who are avid thrill seekers or those looking for a relaxing getaway. While most of the islands attractions are open, some parts, including the overwater cabanas, will open in December, the company said. The island is only open to passengers on Royal Caribbean cruise ships heading to the Bahamas, Bermuda and the Caribbean. But those who want to stay on the island overnight cannot as of now. The company said its still working on designing the island for possible overnight and extended stays. Several of the attractions will be complimentary to passengers, but they will have to shell out a few extra bucks for the zip line, extravagant waterpark and luxury cabanas. The island is part of a larger project that was announced in March 2018. Royal Caribbean International said its planning to open several private island destinations for its customers worldwide. Related Articles SINGAPORE, May 9 (Reuters) - Royal Dutch Shell plans to carry out maintenance at an oilfield offshore Sabah in eastern Malaysia, reducing the volume of Kimanis crude exports in July, four industry sources said on Thursday. The maintenance work at the Gumusut-Kakap oilfield could last for 27 days, one of the sources said. This will reduce exports of Kimanis crude, Malaysia's biggest export grade, to three cargoes in July to early August, down from eight cargoes in June, the source said. Shell has yet to respond to a request for comment. (Reporting by Florence Tan; Editing by Tom Hogue) * Gumusut-Kakap field to shut for 27 days in July * Kimanis exports to fall to 3 cargoes in July * Drop in Kimanis exports to tighten Asian crude market (Adds Shell comment) By Florence Tan SINGAPORE, May 9 (Reuters) - Royal Dutch Shell plans to carry out maintenance at an oilfield offshore Sabah in eastern Malaysia, reducing the volume of Kimanis crude exports in July, four sources said on Thursday. Kimanis is Malaysia's largest export grade and the drop in shipments is expected to tighten Asian crude supplies, the four industry sources said. Work at the Gumusut-Kakap oilfield could last for 27 days and will reduce Kimanis crude exports to three cargoes in July to early August, down from eight cargoes in June, one of the sources said. The July work will include maintenance on Gumusut-Kakap's topside and development of a phase 2 project that is expected to add 50,000 barrels per day (bpd) of production when it hits its peak, the source said. Output from Gumusut-Kakap is expected to rebound to 160,000 bpd in August when works are completed, including initial barrels from phase 2, the source said. This will bring total Kimanis production to 220,000 bpd in the same month. Shell says on its website that phase 2 is scheduled for start-up in 2019. Shell company policy prevents it from providing details on the timing or length of its maintenance programmes, a company spokeswoman said in an email. Gumusut-Kakap is located 120 km (75 miles) off Sabah in East Malaysia. Phase 2 is aimed at shoring up output from the field, which has been in production since 2012, the sources said. Kimanis crude is produced from the Gumusut-Kakap and Malikai oilfields, with total output at around 190,000 bpd currently. Shell operates the two deepwater fields that lie offshore Sabah. (Reporting by Florence Tan; Editing by Tom Hogue) (Bloomberg) -- Singapores lawmakers passed a bill to combat "fake news" after two days of debate about who gets to define whats true and false. Under the new bill, it will be government ministers who make that call. Singapores Parliament passed the bill in a vote of 72 to 9 late Wednesday night, Straits Times reported. The bill, which is expected to become law later this year, has raised questions in a city-state where an openness to international business is key to the countrys viability. "Free speech should not be affected by this bill," Law Minister K. Shanmugam said in parliament this week. "We are talking here about falsehoods, we are talking about bots, we are talking about trolls, we are talking about fake accounts, and so on." It is just one of many nations grappling with how to respond to propaganda and false information online. Facebook Inc. and Alphabet Inc.s unit, Google, which have large offices in Singapore, along with other social media companies, have come under pressure to address lies spread on their platforms. Concern Remains Misinformation is a challenging issue that Google is working hard to address, said Singapore-based Google spokesman Chris Brummitt. The intensity of the debate over the last few weeks has highlighted the need for a full and transparent public consultation, Brummitt said in a statement on Thursday. We remain concerned that this law will hurt innovation and the growth of the digital information ecosystem. How the law is implemented matters, and we are committed to working with policy makers on this process. Facebook said it hopes that reassuring ministerial statements lead to a proportionate and measured approach in practice. We remain concerned with aspects of the new law which grant broad powers to the Singapore executive branch to compel us to remove content they deem to be false and to push a government notification to users, Simon Milner, its vice president of public policy for Asia Pacific, said in a statement. Story continues He said Facebook is already committed to reducing the spread of misinformation in Singapore and elsewhere, and recently introduced third-party fact checking in the city-state. Truth as Infrastructure Singapores solution to misinformation will be to treat truth itself as a form of infrastructure. In a nation that prides itself on the worlds top-ranked airport and a spotless subway system, that will mean strict government oversight. The public infrastructure of truth itself provides society with a shared reality, Shanmugam said this week, arguing that public discourse can only take place when there is free and responsible speech. Without it, he said, the political system on the island would malfunction. "When an infrastructure of fact is damaged, the ability of countries to face challenges is weakened," he said. Under the proposed law, government ministers would be able to order a correction to be carried alongside a false or misleading claim, and material not in the public interest to be taken down. If someone disagreed, they can take their case to the courts. Though there would be a defined appeals process -- and the government stressed it would be quick and cheap to take your case to the courts -- compliance would be required before appeal. Opposition leader Pritam Singh said in parliament this week that the courts would be a more neutral venue for setting a line between what is and isnt misinformation, especially the statements in question criticized by the government itself. There is a genuine sense amongst the public that this bill can easily be abused in the wrong hands, he said. Cautionary tales of how governments deal with information span the globe. In China, internet usage is heavily censored. Russia has been faulted by several countries including the U.S. for weaponizing misinformation to meddle in Western elections. U.S. President Donald Trump tallied more than 10,000 false or misleading statements in just over 800 days in office, according to the Washington Post. Shanmugam maintains criticism of the measure is overblown. Existing laws are stricter, he said, even if people in the country arent broadly aware those rules already exist. --With assistance from Kyunghee Park. To contact the reporters on this story: Derek Wallbank in Singapore at dwallbank@bloomberg.net;Yoolim Lee in Singapore at yoolim@bloomberg.net To contact the editors responsible for this story: Chua Baizhen at bchua14@bloomberg.net, Ruth Pollard, Joyce Koh For more articles like this, please visit us at bloomberg.com 2019 Bloomberg L.P. * President Ramaphosa battling to shore up ANC support * Faces challenge from main opposition DA and leftist EFF * Voters want jobs, land reform, end to corruption * Power crisis dragging on economic growth * Results expected on Saturday * For more stories about the election (Adds more details, comments from Electoral Commission) By Mfuneko Toyana and Wendell Roelf JOHANNESBURG/CAPE TOWN, May 8 (Reuters) - South Africans voting in a national election on Wednesday expressed frustration at rampant corruption, high unemployment and racial inequalities that persist 25 years after the first all-races poll marked the end of white minority rule. The vote for a new parliament and nine provincial legislatures is the toughest electoral test yet for the African National Congress, which has ruled South Africa since that 1994 vote. Nelson Mandela's former liberation party is hoping to reverse or at least arrest a slide in support. "I'm a member of the ANC but I didn't vote for them this time," said construction worker Thabo Makhene, 32, in the commercial hub of Johannesburg. "They need to catch a wake-up. The way they run the state, mishandling state funds, theyve lost their morals." The elections are the first test of national sentiment since President Cyril Ramaphosa replaced scandal-plagued Jacob Zuma as head of state in February 2018 after four years as his deputy. Queues built up at polling stations throughout the day. Officials have said the results could be announced on Saturday. Opinion polls suggest the ANC will again win a majority of the National Assembly's 400 seats but analysts say its margin of victory may fall as efforts to address racial disparities in land ownership, housing and services falter. The country remains one of the most unequal in the world, according to the World Bank. Joblessness, with more than 27 percent out of work, high crime and corruption have also fuelled discontent. Pete Mokokosi, a 77-year-old pensioner, said he felt South Africans needed change, a better economy, education and jobs. "The weather changes everyday, why can't we?" he said as he waited to vote in the township of Soweto in Johannesburg. Story continues In Cape Town, Anneke du Plessis, 43, who works at a media company, said her vote was to end corruption. "We have to unite and stop this downward spiral. This is the most important vote since 1994," she said. Some voters said they would back the ANC. "They have made mistakes before but this time we have the right man," said Alpheus Zihle, 69, a pensioner in Alexandra township in Johannesburg. ECONOMY IN FOCUS Polls are due to close at 9:00 p.m. local time (1900 GMT) but may be kept open to allow those in the queues to vote. Some polling stations around Johannesburg opened late or did not have voting materials, while in the Western Cape Province officials said ballot papers were running out at some locations. Five of the more than 22,000 polling stations had still not opened as of 1500 GMT due to unrest in the communities, the Electoral Commission said without elaborating. Efforts were being made to resolve the issues. Hundreds of people covered in blankets and coats in the chilly winter morning gathered outside a polling station in Soweto, where Ramaphosa cast his vote. "We've made mistakes, but we are sorry about those mistakes, and we are saying our people should reinvest their confidence in us," the president said. "We are going to correct the bad ways of the past." The ANC's biggest challengers are the main opposition party the Democratic Alliance (DA) and the leftist Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF). The ANC won 62 percent of the vote in 2014's parliamentary election, down from 2009 and far short of its best result, 69 percent in 2004 under President Thabo Mbeki. Analysts have put that falling support down to graft allegations against government officials, a slowing economy, high unemployment and demands from black citizens for more equitable distribution of land. Ramaphosa -- who became ANC leader after narrowly defeating a faction allied with Zuma -- has promised to improve service delivery, create jobs and fight corruption. But his reforms have been held up by divisions and opposition within his own party. Africa's most industrialised economy grew at an estimated 0.8 percent in 2018 after recovering from a recession in the first half of the year when a drought hit farming, although blackouts at power utility Eskom continue to drag on activity. Growth is forecast at 1.5 percent this year. PARTY LEADERS VOTE The centre-right DA won 22 percent of the parliamentary vote in 2014. It appointed its first black leader Mmusi Maimane in 2015 and made headlines by leading coalition victories in local government elections in Pretoria and Johannesburg a year later. But splits within the party could see its support wane. "Fear says to us let's stick with what we know, hope says let's bring change," Maimane said after casting his ballot in Soweto, where he grew up. The EFF's leader Julius Malema, a fiery orator who formed the party in 2013 after he was expelled from the ANC, cast his vote in the northern city of Polokwane. "If you need change, the EFF is the way to go," said Malema, whose party won 6 percent of the vote in 2014, making it the third-largest presence in parliament. It wants to nationalise mines and banks, and played a key role in holding Zuma to account for spending state money on non-security upgrades to his private residence. But assurances of change were not enough for some voters. "When it comes to election time, everyone is going to say they are going to do this and that for you. But once they get the votes ... there's not much done," said 30-year-old Nathen Irusan in the town of Tongaat, about 37 kilometres (23 miles)north of Durban. (Additional reporting by James Macharia, Tiisetso Motsoeneng, Emma Rumney, Naledi Mashishi, Lynette Ndabambi, Onke Ngcuka Nqobile Dludla and Olivia Kumwenda-Mtambo in Johannesburg, Tanisha Heiberg in Pretoria, Sumaya Hisham in Cape Town, Rogan Ward in Durban, Siyabonga Sishi and Marius Bosch in Polokwane; Writing by James Macharia and Olivia Kumwenda-Mtambo; Editing by Catherine Evans) SEOUL, South Korea (AP) North Korea fired two suspected short-range missiles toward the sea on Thursday, South Korean officials said, its second weapons launch in five days and a possible warning that nuclear disarmament talks with Washington could be in danger. South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff said the weapons flew 420 kilometers (260 miles) and 270 kilometers (167 miles), respectively. It said it is working with the United States to determine more details, such as the types of weapons that were fired. North Korean state media said Friday that leader Kim Jong Un helped guide the firing of the missiles Thursday and learned about "various long-range strike means," but the statement from the propaganda services didn't provide more specifics on the type of missiles fired. What was launched Thursday is a crucial detail, as North Korea is banned by the United Nations from testing ballistic missiles. Such a test could result in more sanctions, and the North's so far unsuccessful push for large-scale sanctions relief is at the heart of the current diplomatic impasse with Washington. South Korea's military said earlier that at least one projectile was launched from the Sino-ri area of North Pyongan province, an area known to have one of North Korea's oldest missile bases where a brigade operates mid-range Rodong missiles. It later said there were two launches from the nearby town of Kusong, where North Korea conducted its first successful flight tests of its Hwasong-12 intermediate-range missile and Hwasong-14 intercontinental ballistic missile, both in 2017. Kusong is also home to missile test facilities that were critical to the development of North Korea's solid-fuel Pukguksong-2, which was successfully flight-tested for the first time in February 2017, in the North's first missile test after President Donald Trump took office. The latest launches came as U.S. Special Representative for North Korea Stephen Biegun visited South Korea, and hours after the North described its firing of rocket artillery and an apparent short-range ballistic missile on Saturday as a regular and defensive military exercise. North Korea also ridiculed South Korea for criticizing those launches. Story continues President Donald Trump said he was not happy about North Korea's recent military tests. Trump told reporters at the White House on Thursday that "we're looking" at the situation "very seriously right now." He said the weapons were smaller, short-range missiles, but added: "Nobody's happy about it." Trump, who has met with Kim twice now, said: "I don't think they're ready to negotiate." South Korean President Moon Jae-in urged North Korea to refrain from actions that could impede diplomacy. In an interview with the KBS television network, Moon also said Seoul will explore various options to help revive the talks, including providing food aid to the North and pushing for his fourth summit with Kim. "I want to tell North Korea once again that it's not ideal to repeat actions that create various interpretations of its intent, raise concern and risk throwing cold water on the atmosphere of dialogue and negotiations," said Moon, a liberal who facilitated contacts between the United States and North Korea last year. Moon's office earlier said the North Korean launches were "very concerning" and detrimental to efforts to improve inter-Korean ties and ease military tensions on the Korean Peninsula. Some analysts have said that if North Korea resumes testing the kind of longer-range banned ballistic weapons that it fired in unusually large numbers in 2017 when many feared a U.S.-North Korea standoff could end in war it may signal that North Korea is turning away from diplomacy. The tensions in 2017 were followed by a surprising diplomatic outreach by North Korea in 2018, when Kim attended summits with the South Korean and Chinese presidents and with Trump. But North Korea has not received what it wants most from its summitry: relief from punitive sanctions imposed over its nuclear and missile programs. A summit earlier this year between Trump and Kim ended in failure, with the United States saying that North Korea was not offering to take enough disarmament steps in return for the widespread sanctions relief it sought. In Geneva on Thursday, North Korean Ambassador Han Tae Song likened the economic sanctions to "crimes." Just ahead of the Thursday launch, senior defense officials from South Korea, the United States and Japan met in Seoul to discuss North Korea's earlier launches on Saturday and other security issues. Details from the meeting weren't immediately announced. Experts who analyzed photos from North Korean state media say it's clear that the North tested a new solid-fuel missile on Saturday that appears to be modeled after Russia's Iskander short-range ballistic missile system. With the consecutive weapons launches, North Korea is pressuring South Korea to turn away from the United States and support North Korea's position more strongly, said Du Hyeogn Cha, a visiting scholar at Seoul's Asan Institute for Policy Studies. Following the collapse of the Trump-Kim meeting, North Korea demanded that South Korea proceed with joint economic projects that have been held back by U.S.-led sanctions against the North. By firing weapons that directly threaten South Korea but not the U.S. mainland or its Pacific territories, North Korea also appears to be testing how far Washington will tolerate its bellicosity without actually causing the nuclear negotiations to collapse, Cha said. "To the United States, the North is saying 'don't push me into a corner.' To South Korea, the North is saying the inter-Korean peace agreements could become nothing if Seoul fails to coax major concessions from the United States on behalf of the North," Cha said. Some observers say North Korea may fire more missiles, including medium-range ones, to increase the pressure on the United States. Cha said North Korea isn't likely to fire longer-range missiles, such as its Hwasong-12 intermediate-range missiles and Hwasong-14 and 15 intercontinental ballistic missiles, unless it intends to completely abandon diplomacy since it is certain to invite new U.N. sanctions. North Korea last conducted a major missile test in November 2017 when it flight-tested the Hwasong-15 and demonstrated the potential capability to reach deep into the U.S. mainland. Experts think North Korea still needs more tests to make its ICBMs viable. Kim in a New Year's speech said he hopes to continue his nuclear summitry with Trump, but would seek a "new way" if the United States persists with sanctions and pressure against North Korea. Following the collapse of his second summit with Trump in February, Kim said he is open to a third meeting, but set the end of the year as a deadline for Washington to offer mutually acceptable terms for an agreement. ___ Associated Press writer Jamie Keaten in Geneva contributed to this report. ~ Results Demonstrate Long-term Treatment with KEVEYIS is Efficacious and Provides Durable Reduction in Attack Frequency and Severity in Patients with PPP ~ DUBLIN, Ireland and TREVOSE, Pa., May 09, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Strongbridge Biopharma plc, (SBBP), a global commercial-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on the development and commercialization of therapies for rare diseases with significant unmet needs, today announced that long-term efficacy results for KEVEYIS (dichlorphenamide), the first and only U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved treatment for hyperkalemic, hypokalemic, and related variants of primary periodic paralysis (PPP), were presented at the 71st American Academy of Neurology (AAN) Annual Meeting held from May 4 10, 2019 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The data presented at AAN today show that long-term treatment with KEVEYIS in adults is effective in significantly improving both attack frequency and severity in adult patients with primary periodic paralysis, or PPP, said Fredric Cohen, chief medical officer of Strongbridge Biopharma. These findings are important because periodic paralysis is a life-long disorder, and thus demands durable treatment. In the HYP/HOP study, daily treatment with KEVEYIS durably reduced the average number and severity of attacks of weakness and paralysis that were tracked via patient diaries. In a poster presentation entitled, Long-Term Efficacy of Dichlorphenamide for the Treatment of Primary Periodic Paralysis, Nicolas E. Johnson, MD, MSCI, FAAN, lead investigator and associate professor, division chief of neuromuscular and vice chair of research in the department of neurology at Virginia Commonwealth University, presented new findings from a post-hoc analysis evaluating the long-term (up to 61 weeks) efficacy of KEVEYIS in the HYP/HOP study of adult patients with PPP. The results show that long-term treatment with KEVEYIS is efficacious and provides durable reduction in attack frequency and severity in patients with PPP. Story continues The HYP/HOP study was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of 63 patients randomized to receive KEVEYIS (n=36) or placebo (n=27) for 9 weeks during a double-blind phase. Patients then entered a 52-week open-label phase: patients in the KEVEYIS group continued to receive the the same dose they were taking at the end of the 9-week double-blind phase, and patients in the placebo group switched to KEVEYIS 50 mg twice daily.i Presentation Details: Poster P5.4-008 Long-Term Efficacy of Dichlorphenamide for the Treatment of Primary Periodic Paralysis (PPP); Nicolas E. Johnson; Poster Session P5, Genetic Muscle Disorders II; May 9, 2019 11:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m. ET The poster can be accessed here . About Strongbridge Biopharma Strongbridge Biopharma is a global commercial-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on the development and commercialization of therapies for rare diseases with significant unmet needs. Strongbridges rare endocrine franchise includes RECORLEV (levoketoconazole), a cortisol synthesis inhibitor currently being studied in Phase 3 clinical studies for the treatment of endogenous Cushings syndrome, and veldoreotide extended release, a pre-clinical next-generation somatostatin analog being investigated for the treatment of acromegaly and potential additional applications in other conditions amenable to somatostatin receptor activation. Both RECORLEV and veldoreotide have received orphan drug designation from the FDA and the European Medicines Agency. The Companys rare neuromuscular franchise includes KEVEYIS (dichlorphenamide), the first and only FDA-approved treatment for hyperkalemic, hypokalemic, and related variants of primary periodic paralysis. KEVEYIS has orphan drug exclusivity in the United States. About KEVEYIS KEVEYIS (dichlorphenamide) is indicated for the treatment of primary hyperkalemic periodic paralysis, primary hypokalemic periodic paralysis, and related variants. In clinical studies, the most common side effects of KEVEYIS were a numbness or tingling, difficulty thinking and paying attention, changes in taste, and confusion. These are not all of the possible side effects that you may experience with KEVEYIS. Talk to your doctor if you have any symptoms that bother you or do not go away. You are encouraged to report side effects to Strongbridge Biopharma at 1-855-324-8912, or to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or visit www.fda.gov/medwatch . For additional KEVEYIS important safety information and the full prescribing information visit www.keveyis.com . Contacts: Corporate and Media Relations Elixir Health Public Relations Lindsay Rocco +1 862-596-1304 lrocco@elixirhealthpr.com Investor Relations U.S.: Solebury Trout Marcy Nanus +1 646-378-2927 mnanus@soleburytrout.com Europe: First House Geir Arne Drangeid +47 913 10 458 strongbridgebio@firsthouse.no USA 900 Northbrook Drive Suite 200 Trevose, PA 19053 Tel. +1 610-254-9200 Fax. +1 215-355-7389 i Sansone VA, et al. Neurology. 2016;86(15):1408-1416. (Adds details, analyst comments and share performance) By Gabriela Mello SAO PAULO, May 9 (Reuters) - Brazilian wireless carrier Telefonica Brasil expects rising prices to keep revenue on a positive track this year even as competition in Latin America's largest market grows, Chief Executive Christian Gebara said on Thursday. In April, the carrier operating under the brand Vivo started lifting prices in the pre-paid segment after years of stagnation, he said, adding the company had previously adjusted prices in post-paid and control plans last year. "We see a positive trend in revenues despite competitive and macroeconomic factors that can affect results," Gebara told journalists in a call after the company reported first-quarter earnings that beat market expectations. "Brazil needs more investments and network coverage, which demands a rational approach towards prices, and Vivo is making this move," he added. Gebara also said long-awaited economic reforms by the Brazilian government should open room to new investment opportunities in the country. For now, the local subsidiary of Spain's Telefonica is focused on expanding its FTTH network, as well as 4G and 4.5G coverage in Brazil. "And we intend to participate in 5G auction if the schedule set for March 2020 is maintained," he said. Telefonica Brasil posted a 22.2 percent rise in first-quarter net income, outperforming its rival TIM Participacoes. Vivo shares were trading 1.5 percent up early on Thursday at 46.45 reais, among the best performers on the Ibovespa stock index, which was down 1.9 percent. Analysts at Itau BBA said in a note to clients that better revenue in mobile services and broadband were a positive highlight in the first quarter. (Reporting by Gabriela Mello Editing by Susan Thomas) Tricentis signs agreement to acquire IntelliCorp LiveCompare: Smart DevOps software for SAP applications MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif., May 08, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Tricentis, #1 in SAP application testing, today announced the signing of an agreement to acquire IntelliCorp LiveCompare. IntelliCorp's LiveCompare provides a deep analysis of an organizations "as-is" and "to-be" SAP application environmentsidentifying the differences that impact business processes, system integrations, custom code, security and governance, and end users. LiveCompare is used by 100+ of the world's leading companies to upgrade SAP applications 85% faster and 30X cheaper. Adopting the latest generation of SAP applications is essential for driving digital transformation initiativesbut its only the start, explained Tricentis Founder and Chief Product Officer Wolfgang Platz. Projects like SAP S/4HANA migrations are a critical component of a broader digital transformation. They enable a more rapid and continuous innovation cycle. Yet, to truly take advantage of these new platforms for innovation, enterprises need to eliminate the delays associated with deploying changes or upgrades to SAP applications. IntelliCorp CTO Chris Trueman continued, Traditionally, SAP customers relied on time-consuming, error-prone manual tasks from development, testing, and operations to update their SAP applications. They were already struggling to keep up when SAP upgrades were an annual occurrence, and now that pace is accelerating dramatically. LiveCompare helps enterprises get their SAP updates up and running as fast as possibleso they can focus on taking advantage of new capabilities. We offer fast, automated insight into exactly what changed and how to accommodate those changes. This helps teams deploy SAP projects 85% faster. Over 100 leading companies worldwide rely on LiveCompare to accelerate SAP application updates while reducing cost and risk. Here is a sampling of customer testimonials (the complete case studies and additional success stories are available on the IntelliCorp site ): Story continues LiveCompare ensures were testing the right things and spending resources in the right places. When developing a regression test plan, the data received from LiveCompare allows us to more accurately tailor each plan to an individual release. Instead of testing everything we test only whats impacted. That has translated into a direct resource savings of 30-40%. Ray Berry, Application Development Lead for the SAP platform at The Coca-Cola Company Bentley was able to quickly and automatically obtain essential SAP system information to speed up the upgrade project, when it would have taken months of manually scrutinizing the environment to understand its configuration, custom code and data. Andy Millward, Business Analyst at Bentley LiveCompare enabled us to drill down and see specific differences in SAP code that would have a significant impact on our environment. An in-depth understanding of our master data and how to manage it let us know what we were dealing with, so we didnt need to test certain things, while we were quick to identify what did need to be reviewed. Kevin J. Caldecott, Senior Manager of SAP IT at Bentley Motors The benefits of LiveCompare reach far beyond just support packs. We also use LiveCompare for enhancement packs and version upgrades. LiveCompare has enabled us to adopt a proactive attitude to SAP change. Using LiveCompare, we can be confident that custom change introduced to our production systems will not have any negative impact. Frank Schmitz, Senior Manager, SAP Infrastructure at Kimberly-Clark Australia With the help of IntelliCorps LiveCompare, we were able to estimate the scope of the project more accurately and without taking risks. We decided to do it ourselves with the help of LiveCompare, and we finished it all in two months, needing only five external consultants. With these five consultants we managed to execute the whole project because LiveCompare reduced the effort by telling us exactly where impacts would be. We reduced project consulting costs by 82%. Ricardo Calderon, Director of SAP at Sky IntelliCorps applications are great tools to conduct a fully automated SAP analysis to support technical and functional upgrades, support pack installations and system synchronizations If we didnt have LiveCompare, wed have to write an ABAP program to try and capture all that it can, and that would take extensive time and dollarsIntelliCorp software is flexible, well designed, and reduces the costs and risks associated with many SAP lifecycle events. Art Murray, Information Services Quality Assurance Team at The Hershey Company About IntelliCorp IntelliCorp is an international company with primary offices in San Jose, California, and Bristol, United Kingdom. IntelliCorp's smart DevOps software for SAP applications is used by the world's leading companies to help them turn ideas into working software, 30X cheaper, 85% faster and with zero defects. About Tricentis With the industrys #1 Continuous Testing platform, Tricentis is recognized for reinventing software testing for DevOps. Through agile test management and advanced test automation optimized to support 150+ technologies, we provide automated insight into the business risks of your software releasestransforming testing from a roadblock to a catalyst for innovation. The result is accelerated software delivery speed, improved cost efficiency, and reduced business risk. Tricentis is the only vendor to achieve leader status in all three top analyst reports (i.e., the Triple Crown.) This honor is based on our technical leadership, innovation, and a Global 2000 customer base of 1600+ companies, including global enterprises such as Allianz, ANZ Bank, Cisco, Dolby, Experian, First Data, HSBC, Merck, Office Depot, Samsung, Swiss Re, Starbucks, Telstra, UBS, Vodafone, Whole Foods, and WorldPay. Customers rely on Tricentis to achieve and sustain test automation rates of over 90 percentincreasing risk coverage while accelerating testing to keep pace with Agile and DevOps. Tricentis has a global presence in Austria, Australia, Belgium, Denmark, Germany, India, Netherlands, Singapore, Switzerland, Poland, United States and the UK. To learn more, visit https://www.tricentis.com or follow us on LinkedIn , Twitter, and Facebook . Media Contact Noel Wurst Tricentis n.wurst@tricentis.com +1 904.673.4427 (Adds White House meeting on Iran, other topics) By Steve Holland WASHINGTON, May 9 (Reuters) - U.S. President Donald Trump on Thursday urged Iran's leadership to sit down and talk with him about giving up Tehran's nuclear program and said he could not rule out a military confrontation given the heightened tensions between the two countries. At an impromptu news conference at the White House, Trump declined to say what prompted him to deploy the USS Abraham Lincoln carrier group to the region over what was described as unspecified threats. "We have information that you don't want to know about," said Trump. "They were very threatening and we have to have great security for this country and many other places." Trump was asked whether there was a risk of military confrontation with the American military presence in the area. "I guess you could say that always, right? I don't want to say no, but hopefully that won't happen. We have one of the most powerful ships in the world that is loaded up and we don't want to do anything," he said. Top members of the president's national security team discussed Iran and other topics during what the White House called a routine meeting. Trump, who last year pulled Washington out of a 2015 nuclear deal between six world powers and Iran, has expressed a willingness to meet Iranian leaders in the past to no avail and renewed that appeal in talking to reporters. "What they should be doing is calling me up, sitting down. We can make a deal, a fair deal, we just don't want them to have nuclear weapons - not too much to ask. And we would help put them back to great shape." He added: "They should call. If they do, we're open to talk to them." Asked about Trump's comments, Iran's ambassador to the United Nations Majid Takht Ravanchi said Iran had been talking with the six powers, including the United States, within the framework of the nuclear deal. "All of a sudden he decided to leave the negotiating table. ... What is the guarantee that he will not renege again?" Takht Ravanchi said in an MSNBC interview. He dismissed U.S. allegations of an Iranian threat as "fake intelligence" and said they were "being produced by the same people who in the run-up to the U.S. invasion of Iraq did the same." Story continues Trump accused former Secretary of State John Kerry, who helped negotiate the 2015 Iran nuclear deal that Trump withdrew from, of breaking a federal law by having contacts with the Iranians. Last September Kerry told the Hugh Hewitt radio program that he had met with Iranian Foreign Minister Javad Zarif three or four times. Trump said Kerry had violated the 1799 Logan Act, which makes it a crime for individual American citizens to negotiate with foreign governments that have a dispute with the United States. "He's talking to Iran and has many meetings and many phone calls and he's telling them what to do. That is total violation of the Logan Act," said Trump. A Kerry spokesman said Trump was wrong. "He's wrong about the facts, wrong about the law, and sadly he's been wrong about how to use diplomacy to keep America safe," the spokesman said. "We'd hope the president would focus on solving foreign policy problems for America instead of attacking his predecessors for theater." (Reporting by Steve Holland in Washington Editing by Susan Thomas and James Dalgleish) PHOENIX, May 08, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Uptick Newswire Stock Day Podcast welcomed US Nuclear Corp. (UCLE), a company that designs, manufactures, and markets a branded, full line of radiation and chemical detection equipment and specialized advanced tritium technology for the nuclear energy industry and for emerging technological processes such as Fusion Power Generators as well as Thorium and Molten Salt (MSR) reactor technologies both domestically and internationally. Chairman and President, Bob Goldstein, joined Stock Day host Everett Jolly. To begin the interview, Jolly asked about the Companys recent announcement of their partnership with Magneto-Inertial Fusion Technologies, Inc. (MIFTI) Goldstein explained that the agreement includes 500,000 shares of MIFTI stock, as well as manufacturing rights for new fusion based electric power plants. MIFTI is a privately-held company that has made major developments in the electric power grid space. Jolly then asked how these new fusion based electric power plants will differ when compared to the power plants now feeding the worlds electric grids. Goldstein explained that electric power grids especially require base load power, which is both clean and modular making it more effective than other competing power sources such as coal which pollutes the air with both smoke and CO2, and intermittent power sources such as solar and wind. Goldstein also shared that the applications for this kind of power can be utilized in small power plants or in communities in need of local power. This form of power also cuts back on the energy that is typically wasted when travelling substantial distances from power plant to end users. The power market is always growing, stated Goldstein. He continued by explaining that the Companys goal is to serve as a safe and more effective alternative for coal. Goldstein also pointed out that the current $6 Trillion Electric Power market will begin to shift towards cleaner operation with the presence of more solutions. He added that while the use of renewable energy needs to increase, solar panel and windmill solutions cannot serve as the only form of power. No matter how much these forms of energy grow, additional base power solutions will still be necessary. Story continues Jolly then asked about the Companys potential revenues. Goldstein explained that considering the Companys long-term goals revenues could reach truly substantial amounts. However, the Company will not begin building their advanced power grids for about eight years. To close the interview, Goldstein shared that the fusion power generators being developed are very clean and affordable since they use fuel extracted from seawater thus cutting way back on pollution and fuel costs. To hear Bob Goldsteins entire interview, follow the link to the podcast here: https://upticknewswire.com/featured-interview-ceo-robert-goldstein-of-us-nuclear-corp-otcpink-ucle-9/ Investors Hangout is a proud sponsor of Stock Day, and Uptick Newswire encourages listeners to visit the companys message board at https://investorshangout.com/ About US Nuclear Corp. US Nuclear Corp is a fully-reporting, publicly traded company on the Over-the-Counter Bulletin Board, traded under the ticker symbol UCLE. The Company's operations are principally engaged through its subsidiaries, operating two leading nuclear radiation detection companies, Overhoff Technology Corp. and Optron Scientific Company Inc. The Company designs, manufactures and markets branded, full line radiation and chemical detection and specialized advanced tritium technology for the nuclear energy industry and for emerging technological processes such as Fusion Power and Thorium and Molten Salt (MSR) reactor technologies both domestically and internationally to customers such as United States Government Agencies, the U.S. Military, Homeland Security, Scientific Laboratories, Universities, Hospitals, nuclear reactor facilities in the United States, China, Canada, South Korea, Argentina, Russia and others. Safe Harbor Act This press release includes "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Actual results may differ from expectations, estimates and projections and, consequently, you should not rely on these forward looking statements as predictions of future events. Words such as "expect," "estimate," "project," "budget," "forecast," "anticipate," "intend," "plan," "may," "will," "could," "should," "believes," "predicts," "potential," "continue," and similar expressions are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements involve significant risks and uncertainties that could cause the actual results to differ materially from the expected results. Investors may find additional information by visiting US Nuclear Corp . and the SEC website. CONTACT: US Nuclear Corp. ( UCLE ) Robert I. Goldstein, President, CEO, and Chairman Ph: (818) 883 7043 | Email: info@usnuclearcorp.com www.usnuclearcorp.com About Uptick Newswire and the Stock Day Podcast Founded in 2013, Uptick Newswire is the fastest growing media outlet for Nano-Cap and Micro-Cap companies. It educates investors while simultaneously working with penny stock and OTC companies, providing transparency and clarification of under-valued, under-sold Micro-Cap stocks of the market. Uptick provides companies with customized solutions to their news distribution in both national and international media outlets. Uptick is the sole producer of its Stock Day Podcast, which is the number one radio show of its kind in America. The Uptick Network Stock Day Podcast is an extension of Uptick Newswire, which recently launched its Video Interview Studio located in Phoenix, Arizona. (Recasts with U.S. embassy comment, paragraphs 1-3, 6-7) By Angus Berwick and Mayela Armas CARACAS, May 8 (Reuters) - Venezuelan intelligence agents detained opposition leader Juan Guaido's congressional deputy on Wednesday, using a tow truck to drag his vehicle away with him inside, prompting the U.S. government to warn of "consequences" if he was not released. The SEBIN intelligence agency seized Edgar Zambrano, vice president of the opposition-controlled National Assembly, which Guaido heads, in the first arrest of a lawmaker since Guaido tried to spark a military uprising last week to bring down President Nicolas Maduro's government. Venezuela's pro-Maduro Constituent Assembly agreed on Tuesday to strip Zambrano and six other lawmakers of their parliamentary immunity to allow their future prosecution. The opposition does not recognize the assembly's decisions. The Supreme Court had earlier accused those lawmakers of conspiracy, rebellion and treason, and accused another three opposition legislators of the same crimes on Wednesday. The opposition says Maduro has stacked the court with his own supporters, while the U.S. government this week threatened to sanction all its members. The U.S. government's Venezuelan embassy, now based in Washington, said Zambrano's "arbitrary detention" was "illegal and inexcusable." "Maduro and his accomplices are those directly responsible for Zambrano's security. If he is not immediately freed, there will be consequences," the embassy said on Twitter. An attempted uprising last week led by Guaido, recognized by the United States and other Western countries as the rightful head of state, failed to dislodge Maduro, as have a series of U.S. sanctions against his government. Maduro decried the events as an attempted coup. "One of the principal conspirators of the coup has just been arrested," Diosdado Cabello, head of the Constituent Assembly, said in comments broadcast on state television. "They will have to pay before the courts for the failed coup that they attempted," he said. Story continues 'KIDNAPPED' Zambrano said on Twitter at about 6.40 pm local time (2240 GMT) SEBIN agents had surrounded his vehicle outside the headquarters of his Democratic Action party in Caracas' La Florida district. "We were surprised by the SEBIN, and after refusing to let us leave our vehicle, they used a tow truck to forcibly transfer us directly to the (SEBIN headquarters) Helicoide," he said. It was not yet clear if Zambrano was already at the Helicoide. Guaido said on Twitter: "The regime has kidnapped the first vice president." Guaido invoked the constitution in January to assume an interim presidency, denouncing Maduro as illegitimate after he secured re-election last year in a vote widely viewed as fraudulent. Maduro has overseen the collapse of Venezuela's economy, which has shrunk by half over the past five years, forcing more than 3 million Venezuelans to emigrate. The Constituent Assembly removed Guaido's parliamentary immunity in early April. Authorities have not tried to arrest him since then, but Maduro has said he will "face justice." U.S. President Donald Trump's administration has threatened Maduro's government with a harsh response should it ever detain Guaido. Earlier on Wednesday, the Supreme Court's head, Maikel Moreno, rebuffed the U.S. government's threats to sanction his court's members if they did not reject Maduro's government and Guaido. The U.S. Treasury Department imposed sanctions on Moreno and the seven principal members of the court's constitutional chamber in 2017 for rulings that "usurped the authority" of the National Assembly. U.S. Vice President Mike Pence said on Tuesday the Trump administration would soon sanction the 25 remaining members of the court. Pence said the United States was lifting economic sanctions on a former Venezuelan general who turned against Maduro in order to encourage other Maduro allies to follow suit. The head of the Organization of American States, Luis Almagro, said: "We demand the SEBIN stop the intimidation, respect the lawmakers' parliamentary immunities, and immediately release Edgar Zambrano." (Reporting by Angus Berwick and Mayela Armas Editing by Rosalba O'Brien, Lisa Shumaker and Paul Tait) SYDNEY (Reuters) - Australia's competition regulator on Wednesday said it opposed the proposed merger between TPG Telecom Ltd and Vodafone Group's Australian unit because it would reduce competition, particularly in mobile services. "TPG is the best prospect Australia has for a new mobile network operator to enter the market, and this is likely the last chance we have for stronger competition in the supply of mobile services," Australian Competition and Consumer Commission Chair Rod Sims said. (Reporting by Tom Westbrook; Editing by Shreejay Sinha) How to make huge returns from autonomous vehicles even if you dont invest in a single car manufacturer Right now, Teslas market cap is about $42 billion. But if CEO Elon Musk, is right, the company is on its way to be worth $500 billion and it has nothing to do with selling more of its existing line of electric vehicles. InvestorPlace - Stock Market News, Stock Advice & Trading Tips Last Thursday, the eccentric CEO told investors that Teslas autonomous-driving strategies will be the catalyst that sends the companys valuation skyrocketing. On the investor call, Musk allegedly described Teslas current electric vehicle business unit as little more than a backstop of value to Teslas overall business as we enter a new autonomous driving era. Meanwhile, the enormous ride-sharing company, Uber, goes public this Friday. Despite losing more than $3 billion in 2018, the company is expected to launch with a valuation between $80 $90 billion (for context, thats roughly twice the market cap of Ford). And what is Uber pointing toward as the growth engine for its company going forward? You guessed it, autonomous driving. Last month, Ubers self-driving car project received a $1 billion financial jolt from Toyota, auto-parts giant Denso, and the SoftBank Vision Fund. According to Ubers press release, the partnership builds upon the progress made to date, deepening the companies collaboration in designing and developing next-generation autonomous vehicle hardware. It will also prepare the companies and industry for mass production and commercialization of automated ridesharing vehicles and services. The autonomous-driving news doesnt stop there Yesterday, we learned that the ride-sharing company, Lyft, will soon offer rides from self-driving cars operated by Waymo around Phoenix (Waymo is the self-driving car unit of Google). Then, last Tuesday came word that GMs self-driving unit had raised another $1.2 billion. Story continues In fact, looking across the entire automotive sector, its now impossible to find a major auto company not touting autonomous-driving and the time until a self-driving vehicle is actually in your driveway may be much sooner than you realize. For example, look at Ford. The company is now boasting it will have a fully-autonomous vehicle in operation in just two years. From its website: No driver required. Thanks to Ford, that statement will be possible in 2021, the year that we will have a fully autonomous vehicle in commercial operation The vehicle will operate without a steering wheel, gas pedal or brake pedal within geo-fenced areas as part of a ride sharing or ride hailing experience. By doing this, the vehicle will be classified as a SAE Level 4 capable-vehicle, or one of High Automation that can complete all aspects of driving without a human driver to intervene. ***But if you think all the autonomous-vehicle leaders are all here in the United States, youre way off Last Friday, Matt McCall wrote about the Chinese electric car company, DearCC, and its premium brand, Enovate. From Matt: Just two model years from now, Enovate claims it will produce a new car with just about every futuristic feature carmakers are striving for from 5G connectivity, to 0 to 60 acceleration in under three seconds a direct shot at Tesla. But the car has two other features that really make me sit up and take notice. First is its self-driving technology. While this Enovate ME-S does have a small, digital steering control, its intended to be tucked away into the dash during normal use. Instead, according to Enovates specs, the car will start and stop, drive itself, park, and complete a trip known in the industry as Level 4 automation. Putting highly automated cars on the streets by 2021 is ambitious. But, ultimately, this is the future. ***With autonomous vehicles as the future of transportation, whats the best way to invest? When looking at the major car manufacturers, it gets murky. Which brand will be first to market with its line of autonomous vehicles? Will it be Enovate? Or Ford? Maybe something from a European car company? Or will it actually be Tesla? Regardless, how will the public embrace it? Just being the first to market doesnt mean a company will be most profitable which is ultimately what will drive stock prices. So, how does an investor identify the autonomous vehicle companies that will see the most bottom-line growth? Well, what if you didnt have to answer all those questions? What if there was a way to invest in this massive autonomous vehicle trend that didnt require you to know ahead of time which auto manufacturer would be the market leader? There is. It involves a picks and shovels style of investing. If youre unfamiliar with the term, it dates back to the 1849 Gold Rush. Though thousands of would-be millionaires set out to find gold, most never saw a single penny from their sweat and toil. But who did generate a fortune the easy way? The entrepreneurs who supplied all the picks and shovels to the dreamers looking for riches. You see, picks and shovels were the price of admission, so to speak, when searching for gold. So, the savvy entrepreneur selling those picks and shovels made a fortune and it didnt matter one bit whether a specific miner found gold or not. When it comes to the autonomous vehicle industry, a savvy investor might say I dont care which auto manufacturer is going to be the market leader I want to put my money behind something that all auto manufacturers are going to need, just to compete the price of admission, so to speak. ***What were talking about are next-generation batteries To deliver an electric, autonomous vehicle thats cheap, safe, and capable of traveling hundreds of miles on a single charge, we need a breakthrough battery. Currently, our lithium-ion batteries arent capable of supporting next-generation technologies. So, now, the race is on. And frankly, the stakes have never been higher. From Automotive News: Adoption of EVs is already expected to fuel an exponential increase in lithium ion batteries, the reigning replacement for the internal combustion engine. The latest report from BloombergNEF found that electric buses and passenger cars accounted for 44 gigawatt hours of lithium ion battery demand in 2017 and by 2030 that demand is forecast to surge to over 1,500 gigawatt hours per year. Anyone with a viable solid-state battery that can outperform lithium ion technology could gain the upper hand in a market for all EV batteries that will be worth about $84 billion by 2025, compared with about $23 billion now, according to UBS Group AG. With these stakes on the table, all the major auto manufacturers are scrambling to secure next-generation battery technologies. At this point, let me turn back to Matt McCall: General Motors (GM), Ford, Toyota Motor (TM), Honda Motor (HMC), Mitsubishi Motors (MMTOF), Nissan Motor(NSANY), and Hyundai Motor (HYMTF) all want these next-generation batteries in their fleets as soon as possible. Audi, Porsche, Mercedes, and BMW (BMWYY), too. In fact, Germany is so eager to help its automakers outdo the Chinese, Japanese, and Americans that its spending $1 billion on these batteries. I could go on But as an investor, Id rather own a pure play on the battery revolution Therefore, at Investment Opportunities, Im recommending companies that supply this new technology nicknamed the Jesus Battery. If you ever wanted to invest in the coming electric car revolution, but werent sure how, THIS is your chance. I know I do. So, I found a company that holds key patents. Automakers like Toyota are relying on this tiny company for its electric cars. Yet the company is totally off the radar. That makes now the right time to get in before everyone else. Ive got a full presentation on the investment opportunity in this Jesus Battery, which you can view for free by clicking here. Tomorrows transportation will come through electric, autonomous vehicles. And powering them will be next-generation batteries. If you want to be a part of this picks and shovels way of investing, click here to learn more from Matt. In the meantime, well continue to keep you up to speed on developments with autonomous driving here in the Digest. Have a good evening, Jeff Remsburg Compare Brokers The post The Right Way to Invest in Autonomous Vehicles appeared first on InvestorPlace. BANKING IS NOW A hermit's dream. If you want, you can bank and never encounter a human being. Even if you don't join an online bank, you can easily avoid other people while using a bank with brick-and-mortar branches. In fact, it's never been easier to do so, thanks to the long-dependable automatic deposit and the advent of smartphone deposits and online services such as PayPal.com and Google Pay to transfer money to another bank account. But just because you can bank without encountering human beings, it doesn't mean you always should. There are some key advantages -- as well as some drawbacks -- to using brick-and-mortar banking institutions. In a nutshell, the pros of banking at a branch are: -- You may have more luck fixing a banking problem with a person than by talking on the phone or clicking a lot of links. -- If you're struggling to get a loan, a person may have better ideas that a chatbot. -- If you want advice on a complex financial topic, a banker -- over an automated software program -- will likely be able to give it to you. Fixing problems. Do you get the occasional overdraft fee? Or maybe it isn't occasional. Maybe sometimes you check your balance only to find utter carnage, with fees galore, courtesy of one unexpected payment going through and numerous planned charges clearing as well. If you have any hope of getting those fees waived, it helps if you actually visit your bank sometimes, especially if the staff has come to know you. Not that a relationship with your bank's staff will necessarily save you, and this isn't to say you can't get fees dismissed if you belong to an online-only bank. But it stands to reason that if you get to know your bank's employees, and they get to know you, you'll have a better shot at receiving mercy than a fellow consumer who is a stranger to them. [Read: 6 Predictions for Banking in 2019.] Regardless, if you value personal relationships, you should keep your brick-and-mortar bank, says Robert Richardson, the owner and creative director at Richardson Marketing, a Las Vegas-based digital marketing agency for banks and credit unions. He also runs MarketingBanks.com, a financial service trends website. Story continues "There is still something to be said for being able to walk into a branch and talk to someone you know about your financial concerns. Yes, online banks have call centers, but they are hardly personal, and the chances of speaking to the same person more than once are pretty slim," Richardson says. Not that there aren't disadvantages to only having a brick-and-mortar bank. Richardson does think that if your primary goal of having a bank is to save money, then online banks are probably the way to go. "Traditional banks offer very little return on your money, as opposed to online banks that don't have the same overhead and can afford to pay interest even on traditional savings accounts," Richardson says. Of course, you can always have both -- a checking account with a bank that has brick-and-mortar locations -- and a savings account at an online bank. [Read: How to Close Your Bank Account Properly] Securing loans. If the bank manager knows your name and has a sense of your character, that may be the edge you need when it comes to getting approved, particularly if you aren't an elite banking customer and you have a few dings on your report. Of course, if you are an elite customer, you arguably need that face time, too. You may not have trouble getting loans, but you still want to understand the terms and may want to talk things over with a loan officer. Renee Newman, First Interstate Bank's chief banking officer and based out of Billings, Montana, says that customers of all ages don't seem to be interested in losing the human connection at their bank. She says that First Interstate Bank has concluded that even younger generations are not completely sold on only doing banking through technology. "Our research shows that Gen Z is trending toward the characteristics of an older generational cohort. They want all of the technology available for instant access and ease, but they want a human relationship," she says. She does think bank branches may get smaller over time, but she doesn't see them going anywhere. [Read: How to Cash a Check Without a Bank Account] Getting advice. Most banking is pretty basic. You need money, and you take it out of your account. You want to pay a bill, and so you do. But if you have loans with your banks, you might have questions about home equity lines of credit or what type of individual retirement account you need. You may appreciate calling on a human sounding board -- and not having to work everything out on your own. "People bank with people, not companies," says Adam Marlowe, principal experience officer for Georgia's Own Credit Union based out of Atlanta. He says that goes both ways, that banks recognize the value of meeting their customers. For that reason, even if some customers migrate to only doing banking online, he doesn't envision banks giving up on their bank branches. "The challenge is building the relationships," he says. "Brick-and-mortar locations will remain to a financial institution's long-term strategy, as the staff are challenged with reaching out to the community to understand how they can serve them better and in more convenient ways." Of course, everyone's personality and banking needs are different, and it may be that you really are better off bypassing your bank branch and even exclusively banking online. But if you have a branch that's conveniently located near you, it never hurts to start learning your bank tellers' names, and for them to learn yours. Sure, you save time by skipping an in-person visit. However, in the long run, if you're a banking hermit, you may be paying a higher price than you think. More From US News & World Report VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / May 9, 2019 / Ximen Mining Corp. (TSX-V: XIM, "Ximen" or the "Company") announces that, further to its news releases of April 8, 2019 and May 2, 2019, it has entered into five new arm's length agreements to acquire an additional 10,919,461 common shares ("Target Shares") of 0995237 B.C. Ltd., a private B.C. company ("0995237"). In consideration for these 10,919,461 additional Target Shares the Company proposes to issue a total of 642,828 Ximen common shares at a deemed issue price of $0.70 per share. Together with previously announced agreements to acquire 0995237 common shares (please refer to the press releases dated April 8, 2019 and May 2, 2019), these additional agreements bring the total number of Target Shares proposed to be acquired by the Company to 43,261,811 Target Shares, or approximately 80 % of 0995237. The total number of Ximen common shares to be issued in exchange for the 43,261,811 Target Shares is 3,528,769 (or approximately 10.62% of the total issued and outstanding Ximen common shares), at an average issue price of $0.74 per share (the "Consideration Shares"). The principal asset of 0995237 is its option to acquire the Kenville Gold Mine, located west of Nelson, B.C. The acquisition of the Target Shares remains subject to TSX Venture Exchange acceptance. The Consideration Shares will be subject to a customary 4-month, plus one day, hold period running from the date on which they are issued. The acquisition the Target Shares is expected to complete by May 30, 2019. On behalf of the Board of Directors, "Christopher R. Anderson" Christopher R. Anderson, President, CEO and Director 604 488-3900 Investor Relations: Mr. William Sattlegger, 604-488-3900 ir@XimenMiningCorp.com Ximen Mining Corp. Ximen Mining Corp. owns 100 percent interest in all three of its precious metal projects. Ximen's two gold projects, The Gold Drop Project and Brett Gold Project are located in southern British Columbia. Ximen also owns the Treasure Mountain Silver project adjacent to the past producing Huldra Silver Mine. Ximen is a publicly listed company trading on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol XIM, in the USA under the symbol XXMMF, and in Frankfurt, Munich, and Berlin Stock Exchanges in Germany under the symbol 1XM and WKN with the number as A1W2EG. Story continues This press release contains certain 'forward-looking statements' within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation, including statements regarding the receipt of TSX Venture Exchange acceptance of the above-described proposed transaction. Although the Company believes that such statements are reasonable, it can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts; they are generally, but not always, identified by the words 'expects,' 'plans,' 'anticipates,' 'believes,' 'intends,' 'estimates,' 'projects,' 'aims,' 'potential,' 'goal,' 'objective,' 'prospective,' and similar expressions, or that events or conditions 'will,' 'would,' 'may,' 'can,' 'could' or 'should' occur, or are those statements, which, by their nature, refer to future events. The Company cautions that forward-looking statements are based on the beliefs, estimates and opinions of the Company's management on the date the statements are made and they involve a number of risks and uncertainties. Consequently, there can be no assurances that such statements will prove to be accurate and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Except to the extent required by applicable securities laws and the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange, the Company undertakes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements if management's beliefs, estimates or opinions, or other factors, should change. Factors that could cause future results to differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements include the possibility that the TSX Venture Exchange may not accept the proposed transaction in a timely manner, if at all. The reader is urged to refer to the Company's reports, publicly available through the Canadian Securities Administrators' System for Electronic Document Analysis and Retrieval (SEDAR) at www.sedar.com for a more complete discussion of such risk factors and their potential effects. This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities, nor shall there be any sale of securities in any state in the United States in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful. Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Ximen Mining Corp 888 Dunsmuir Street - Suite 888, Vancouver, B.C., V6C 3K4 Tel: 604-488-3900 SOURCE: Ximen Mining Corp. View source version on accesswire.com: https://www.accesswire.com/544788/Ximen-Provides-Update-on-Acquisition-of-Kenville-Gold-Mine Investing.com - The safe-haven yen gained on Thursday in Asia amid intensifying Sino-U.S. trade tension. Meanwhile, the kiwi remained under pressure following the Reserve Bank of New Zealand (RBNZ)s decision to cut benchmark rate. The safe-haven yen rose 0.2% against the U.S. dollar by 11:44 PM ET (03:44 GMT), trading at 109.91, as concerns about the escalating trade war between the U.S. and China caused another day of sharp losses in global stock markets. Chinese Vice Premier Liu He will meet with U.S. officials later in the day. U.S. President Donald Trump said on Sunday that he would hike tariffs on $200 billion worth of Chinese goods to 25% from the current 10% if an agreement was not met before Friday. Washington has accused Beijing of backtracking on commitments made during trade negotiations. Overnight, Trump said China "broke the deal" in the ongoing U.S.-China trade talks. "By the way, you see the tariffs we're doing? Because they broke the deal. They broke the deal," Trump said. "So they're flying in, the vice premier tomorrow is flying in good man but they broke the deal. They can't do that, so they'll be paying." The USD/CNY pair gained 0.4% to 6.8071. Data showed this morning that Chinas consumer price index in April jumped 2.5% from a year ago, in line with expectations but slightly higher that the 2.3% year-on-year in March. A spike in pork prices (+14.4% year-on-year) contributed to higher food prices, the National Bureau of Statistics data showed. Meanwhile, the New Zealand dollar remains under pressure after the Reserve Bank of New Zealand surprised the markets by cutting the benchmark rate from 1.75% to 1.50% on Wednesday. The kiwi fell to a six-month low immediately after the release of the central banks statement. The NZD/USD pair last traded at 0.6570, down 0.1%. Meanwhile, the Reserve Bank of Australia surprised markets by keeping rates unchanged a day earlier. The AUD/USD pair fell 0.2% to 0.6972. Story continues The U.S. Dollar Index which measures the greenback against a basket of six major currencies was little changed at 97.412. Related Articles The Dollar Dictates Chinas Need for a Trade Deal Philippines Economic Growth Slows to Four-Year Low of 5.6% Dollar hovers near six-week low vs. yen as U.S.-China trade talks awaited "As the Prophets saw, as the Apostles taught, as the Church has received, as the Teachers express in dogma, as the inhabited world understands together with them, as grace illumines, as the truth makes clear, as error has been banished, as wisdom makes bold to declare, as Christ has assured, so we think, so we speak, so we preach, honouring Christ our true God, and his Saints, in words, in writings, in thoughts, in sacrifices, in churches, in icons, worshipping and revering the One as God and Lord, and honouring them because of their common Lord as those who are close to him and serve him, and making to them relative veneration. This is the faith of the Apostles; this is the faith of the Fathers; this is the faith of the Orthodox; this faith makes fast the inhabited world." Excerpt from the Synodikon of the Sunday of Orthodoxy (http://www.anastasis.org.uk/synodikon.htm) By the Grace of God, here are presented a few true stories of the Saints, sayings of the Holy Fathers, sacred icons, and many other things so that, maybe in a small way, we may remind ourselves that (though we might not be ready to accept it)I must say that I am not a part of the clergy, so I hope to primarily put forth quotations from the Gospel, Saints and Holy Fathers, and not my own opinions. But if you see my own words or opinions, keep in mind that they are my opinions or comments and they have little weight, as opposed to the quotations from Christ, the Saints and the Fathers which do.I ask forgiveness if in this site any of my passions are acting, hindering the Grace of the Holy Spirit because of my sins. I apologize for any errors of mine, mistakes, problems with translations, etc. due to my ignorance and conceit. If anyone notices any mistakes or can suggest a better translation, please let me know. I try to post all of my sources. Please also let me know if I am violating any copyrights or other laws, and I will do my best to comply. In the southern Pakistani port city of Karachi, activists and relatives of victims of forced disappearances are participating in a nearly two-week sit-in protest to demand that authorities release or find scores of missing Shia. In the latest development, police released 18 protesters on May 9. They were among the 36 protesters whom police had arrested a day earlier for organizing a sit-in outside the Pakistani presidents private residence in Karachis Bahadurabad neighborhood since April 28. This protest includes more than just the relatives of those picked up during the past four or five weeks, activist Mohammad Jibran Nasir said. It also includes those whose family members have disappeared during the past three, four, or five years. Shiite activists say some 80 members of the community are currently disappeared and that many of them were picked up in Karachi in recent weeks. During the past year, forced disappearances have sparked major protests across Pakistan. As of March, the Commission of Inquiry on Enforced Disappearances, a government-appointed body, had 2,178 unresolved cases. Since 2011, the commission claims to have resolved thousands of cases of forced disappearances by mostly establishing that the victims are in government custody. Still there is no end in sight for families and communities of victims who often scramble to find any information about their disappeared relatives. This protest is organized by the families of victims, Nasir says. For Gods sake, please stop terrorizing people, he said in an apparent reference to Pakistans powerful military and spy services. Pakistani authorities have mostly rejected being responsible for forced disappearances. According to Amnesty International (AI), the victims of enforced or involuntary disappearances include bloggers, journalists, students, political activists, human rights defenders, members of religious minorities, and suspected members of armed groups. AI says that while the practice was once confined to the restive western provinces of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, it is now pervasive in the countrys heartland and major cities. Enforced disappearances have long been a stain on Pakistans human rights record, AI said in a statement in March. Despite the pledges of successive governments to criminalize the practice, there has been slow movement on legislation while people continue to be forcibly disappeared with impunity. Shiite leaders say they are not asking for leniency but want the state to uphold the rule of law. Please dont push us to the brink, Shiite cleric Allama Raja Nasir Abbas recently said in an appeal to Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan. Our youth are ready to cooperate with you. Please call them to the police station, or anywhere, investigate them and they will cooperate, but stop picking them up from their homes. Shia make up some 20 percent of Pakistans more than 207 million population. Shiite communities are spread across the country and are part of all major ethno-linguistic groups. Since the early 1980s, thousands have died in sectarian violence in which hard-line Sunni militant groups have mostly targeted minority Shia. Some Shiite militant groups have also participated in sectarian warfare. Experts and authorities say the violence is part of the regional rivalry between the Shiite clerical regime in neighboring Iran and its regional archrival, the Saudi monarchy. International media reports say the ongoing disappearances of members of Pakistans Shiite community are linked to their suspected role in a secretive Shiite militia in Syria. The Zainabyoun Brigade was allegedly composed of Pakistani Shiite volunteers who have been fighting on behalf of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. But Shiite activists say forced disappearances are not the right approach to punishing those suspected of committing crimes. We will continue this sit-in protest until the authorities present all the victims of enforced disappearances in the courts, says Rashid Rizvi, an organizer of the protest in Karachi. He says that currently some 80 members of the Shiite community are missing across Pakistan. Some 39 of these come from Karachi. Naghma Shaikh, another activist, says they are networking with the political and civil rights organizations working for victims of forced disappearances from among Pakistans Baluch, Pashtun, Mohajir, and Sindhi ethnic minorities. If we all raise our voice against the violation of our basic human rights, it will result in improving the situation, she told Radio Mashaal. Every suspect needs to be presented to a court and tried, but the practice of picking up people to disappear them must end. Nasir Hussain Shah is a provincial minister in Sindh, where Karachi is the capital. He told Radio Mashaal that their Pakistan Peoples Party-led provincial administration is against forced disappearances. We have checked and ensured that the provincial police force working under our administration is not involved in such practices, he said. If anyone is accused of a crime, they should be dealt with by the law. While Pakistans powerful military has mostly avoided speaking about the issue, its spokesman recently implied that the countrys complex security challenges prompted them to resort to extreme measures. We dont want that anybody should go missing, but one has to do a lot of stuff while fighting a war, Pakistans top military spokesman Asif Ghafoor told journalists on April 29. This is why people say, Everything is fair in love and war. Ghafoor added that wars are ruthless. The armed forces of Pakistan or its security organization fight it as a duty. It is not their personal war, he said. A heated debate takes place every year around Christmas time. Its not about which relatives house you should visit for the holidays, its a topic with greater importance. Its a question everyone wants to know the answer to but cant seem to agree on. Is the 1988 film Die Hard, starring Bruce Willis, a Christmas movie? You voted: U.S. Rep. Jason Crow on Thursday introduced a proposal to prohibit the immediate, over-the-counter sales of rifles and shotguns to out-of-state residents, closing what the Aurora Democrat calls an obvious loophole in federal law that governs the sale of handguns. This is a 15-word bill, Crow said in an interview. All it does is treat all firearms the same. Firearms dont discriminate, so we should treat them all the same. Crow said the legislation, dubbed the Colorado Loophole Act, was inspired by an incident in April when Sol Pais, a Florida teenager infatuated with the Columbine massacre, flew to Colorado and purchased a pump-action shotgun before killing herself on a snowy mountain west of Denver. Before her body was discovered, authorities staged a massive manhunt, and hundreds of schools along the Front Range canceled classes as the 20th anniversary of the Columbine school shooting approached. Under law, 18-year-old Pais was able to purchase a shotgun legally at a firearms dealer in Littleton, even though federal law would have prevented her from buying a handgun at the store because she wasnt a resident of Colorado. Crows bill would apply the same rules to out-of-state residents buying long guns rifles and shotguns as are in place for handgun purchases, requiring that dealers ship firearms to a licensed dealer in a buyers home state, where they would undergo background checks. Last month, 500,000 children were kept home from school because of a threat of violence that Colorado knows all too well. The threat could have been prevented by simply ensuring that we treat shotguns and rifles the same way we treat handguns, Crow said in a statement. Thats why Im introducing the Colorado Loophole Act, a common sense measure that would remove the ambiguity in federal law that allowed the suspect to buy a shotgun in Colorado in April. As a combat veteran and a gun owner, but also a dad, I know we need to do more to keep our communities safe. The bill would keep in place exceptions in law involving hunters and inheritances but would remove a requirement that firearm dealers make sure sales of rifles and shotguns comply with laws in their state and in a buyers home state. It actually puts gun dealers in a better position, Crow said. As the law is written now, it requires dealers to interpret the laws of 50 states. John Feinblatt, president of Everytown for Gun Safety, said the gun-control advocacy group is behind Crows proposal. Right now, its too easy to avoid your states gun laws when buying a rifle or shotgun: just find a neighboring state with looser laws than your own, and you may slip through the cracks, Feinblatt said in a statement provided by Crows office. We applaud Representative Crow for taking action to close this deadly loophole and keep Americans safe. Crow, a vice chair of the House Democrats Gun Violence Prevention Task Force, was preparing to introduce the bill when a school shooting Tuesday left one student dead and eight injured at STEM School Highlands Ranch, in the 6th Congressional District he represents. It continues to underscore the need for common sense legislation to address this crisis, he said Wednesday. Im not afraid to lead on this issue. Now as a member of Congress, I have a responsibility to identify issues and crises facing the community and make laws and policy to address it. Thats my job, and Im going to do it. Added Crow: This is a crisis is with a lot of different facets mental health, resources and training for first responders and school resource officers. We dont have to choose its all of those issues, we have an obligation to address all of them. This (bill) is part of that broader effort. Crow said hes working on legislation to help train law enforcement and school personnel to identify threats early, and supports a proposal introduced in the last Congress by his predecessor, Republican U.S. Rep. Mike Coffman, to expand the Safe2Tell program nationally. The initiative, started in Colorado in the wake of the Columbine shooting, allows students, parents and school staff to anonymously report safety concerns and threats of violence to law enforcement. House Democrats have been moving aggressively on gun control measures this year, including passing HR 8, a bill co-sponsored by Crow to require universal background checks for gun sales. Crow is also co-sponsoring pending legislation to ban assault weapons. The Republican-controlled Senate, however, is unlikely to take action on the gun legislation. Whats happening here is whats happening with all the common sense, obvious fixes, Crow said. The gun lobby says there will be no gun legislation. We are at a point now where there are people who arent wiling to lead, who are more [beholden] to the gun lobby and the gun manufacturers than they are to the people of their district. A measure to decriminalize psilocybin mushrooms in Denver has eked out a narrow lead in the final unofficial results from Tuesdays municipal election, officials reported Wednesday. The Denver Elections Divisions count which is not yet certified and does not include all the overseas and military ballots showed Initiative 301 leading with 50.56% of the vote, a margin of about 1,979. We hammer that numbers remain unofficial because the deadline for military and overseas and ballot cures isnt until May 15, said Alton Dillard, spokesman for the Denver Elections Division. The unofficial vote total is a stunning turnaround. By early Tuesday night, the referendum was trailing by 9 points. Then by Wednesday morning, it was behind by 3 points. If the lead stands when the official vote is certified May 16, Denver would become the first city in the nation to decriminalize so-called magic mushrooms. The measure does not make them legal, but requires that law enforcement and prosecutors make possession of psilocybin their lowest priority. Kevin Matthews, campaign chairman for Decriminalize Denver, which worked to put the referendum on the ballot, said he went to bed Tuesday thinking the measure had gone down in defeat. But a friend with a sense of humor and a bit of foresight emailed Matthews a photograph of President Harry Truman holding up a newspaper with the big banner headline Dewey Defeats Truman in November 1948. Like Truman, Matthews woke up Wednesday to learn that reports of the initiatives demise might have been premature. The last 22 hours have been the example of the absurd comedy of the great metaphor of life, Matthews said, borrowing a quote from his wife. Its been a real roller coaster today. Matthews, a stay-at-home dad who said psilocybin helped him deal with depression, said he always expected the measure would win. But he also tempered that expectation by saying it was a victory simply to get the measure placed on the ballot the first time in the nation that such a referendum had gone to the voters. When we got the initial results at 7 p.m., it damn near broke my heart, he said. But in the morning, the referendum began to gain traction as Elections Division workers counted the late surge of ballots that had been cast Tuesday. Matthews said he visited the Elections Division on Wednesday morning to thank the employees for their work. Then he returned home where he received a call from another campaign worker telling him the measure had moved ahead. He refreshed his computer screen and when he saw the final unofficial results, he let out a scream. The neighbors must have been wondering what I was on, he quipped. During the campaign, the psilocybin ballot question was largely overshadowed by the debate over Initiative 300, which sought to repeal Denvers urban camping ban and assert the right of homeless people to dwell on public property. That measure went down to a crushing defeat after Together Denver raised $2.2 million from downtown business interests and other groups to oppose the measure. The psilocybin initiative had its critics, but it did not draw organized opposition. Mayor Michael Hancock and District Attorney Beth McCann opposed the measure. McCann said she worried that passage of the initiative could turn Denver into a mecca for people wanting to use magic mushrooms without local legal consequences. Peter Droege, who specializes in addiction policy for the Centennial Institute at Colorado Christian University, called the referendum a dangerous Pandoras box of potential harm to individuals and to public safety. Advocates pointed to research studies that found doses of psilocybin helped treat depression among cancer patients. But researchers also pointed out that the drug can be harmful to individuals with psychotic disorders or those who are prone to them. They also noted that the research has not been replicated. Meanwhile, psilocybin remains on the Drug Enforcement Administrations list of illegal controlled substances. Carolyn Tyler, a spokeswoman for McCanns office, said prosecutors will need time to review the measure if its passage is certified by the Elections Division. The language of Initiative 301 is very open-ended, and were going to have to take some time to determine the next step, Tyler said. Matthews said if the initiative is certified, the next step is well-defined. It calls upon the mayor to appoint a panel by Dec. 31 to study the impact of the referendum. The panel would include one representative each from the Denver Police and Sheriffs departments, two City Council members and two citizens from the people who petitioned to put the measure on the ballot. The panel also would include a criminal defense attorney, a certified addiction counselor, a harm reduction advocate and one representative each from the city attorneys office and the district attorneys office. Matthews said he plans to call on Hancock and his runoff challenger Jamie Giellis within the next few weeks to discuss the referendum. We look forward to working with the city on this, he said. Right now, we are ready to make sure city officials have the information they need. A measure to decriminalize psilocybin mushrooms in Denver has eked out a narrow lead in the final unofficial results from Tuesdays municipal Jennifer Cash November 24, 1975 - May 8, 2019 Jennifer Cash of Clear Lake, Iowa met her lord and savior on May 8, 2019 after a valiant battle with cancer. She was surrounded by her loving family at Hospice of North Iowa. A memorial service will be held Saturday, May 11, 2019 at 10:00 a.m. at the Clear Lake United Methodist Church with Reverend Fred Lewis officiating. Family will greet friends from 4:00 7:00 p.m. on Friday, May 10, 2019 at the church. Visitation will continue an hour prior to the service on Saturday. In Lieu of flowers, to continue to grow Jennifer's love of Agriculture, the family suggests memorials be directed in care of the family to be used for the Clear Lake Schools Ag Leadership Program that she was passionate in helping establish. Jennifer Louise Norris was born November 24, 1975 to loving parents Charlie and Louise (Vorland) Norris. She grew up thriving in all that comes with a family farm and was proud of her heritage. Jennifer was a graduate of Clear Lake High School and NIACC, serving as the Student Body President. Family was the center of Jennifer's life, living just down the road from her grandparents and moving in next door to her parents when she married. She was baptized, confirmed, married and a lifelong member of the Clear Lake United Methodist Church. Jennifer was a Girl Scout, attending camp and carrying those camp songs through her life. She was an active member of 4-H in her youth, continuing the program in her adulthood with her children. On June 10, 1994 she married her high school sweetheart, Todd M. Cash. The pair were blessed with two daughters, Kaitlynn Louise and Madalynn Michelle, and raised them close to family and the animals they loved. Over the years she welcomed critters of all kinds to her barnyard cats, dogs, pigs, bottle calves, chickens, a goat and of course her horses. Jennifer spent as much time riding her horses as she could, frequently taking her lunch break at home to ride one or even two. Horses became the center of summers, taking her girls to shows and making memories and improving each weekend. The friends that she made were the most important part of learning to ride and care for her horses, and she was an active member and board member of the North Iowa Saddle Clubs Association for many years. Staying true to her roots Jennifer was a farmer and sat on the Cerro Gordo County Farm Bureau board and served as President. She was a proud member of the Iowa Farm Bureau Ag Leaders class of 2007. Jennifer participated in Iowa Young Farmers discussion meets, competing nationally. She advocated for agriculture and enjoyed sharing her love for animals and farming with others, especially children. A truly creative soul, Jennifer was talented with sewing and embroidery machines. She spent time sewing and embellishing her own horse show clothes and embroidering an endless array of special items for friends and family, especially her grandkids. As they said in Second Hand Lions, she really lived. Jennifer and Todd took time off of work and traveled hundreds of miles just to experience a solar eclipse. She traveled to Kenya, an Amtrak trip through Canada, Mackinac Island, New England, Scotland, Wales, England, France, Caribbean cruises, New York, Hawaii, Florida, Washington D.C., Texas, and countless other places. Jennifer enjoyed her many tractor rides around the area with family and friends. And she encouraged her family to experience life and travel as well. Grandma Jen was blessed to become a grandma and embraced all that was involved with loving, caring for and especially playing with Abel and Lyla. She shared her love of horses and critters with them whenever she had the chance. Jennifer's first job was at the Gwen's Hallmark Store in Clear Lake. She started her banking career of 20 years at Farmers State Bank and then moved to Manufacturers Bank and Trust as the Marketing and Gold Club director and later as the AVP, Operations Manager and Retail Services. Jennifer is preceded in death by her maternal grandparents Edmund and Alice Vorland and paternal grandfather Chuck Norris. She is survived by her husband of nearly 25 years, Todd Cash; daughters Katie (Danny) Behr and Madalynn Cash; parents Charlie and Louise Norris; grandmother Ruth Norris; grandchildren Abel and Lyla Behr and a third grandchild due late this summer; brother Jason (Stephanie Wharton) Norris; aunts and uncles Gene (Cathy) Vorland, Norman (Julie) Vorland, Linda (Larry) McNamara; nieces and nephews Rowan Norris, Wesley and Reece Wharton; Garett, Mara and Owen Cash; cousins Elizabeth (Calvin) Thyer, Andrew and Alexa Thyer; Matthew (Stephanie) McNamara, Michael and Makenna McNamara; Eric (Desiree Grimm) Vorland; Sara (Dane) Whaley, Norah Whaley; Jacob (Kate) Vorland; Alyson Vorland; parents-in-law Mike and Nancy Cash; brother-in-law Ryan (Shana) Cash; extended family and many friends she considered her family, especially those of the North Iowa Saddle Clubs Association, Iowa Farm Bureau and MBT Bank. Ward-Van Slyke Colonial Chapel 101 N 4th St, Clear Lake, IA 50428. (641) 357-2193. From December 19th through December 26th we will be granting free access as a gift to our readers presented by IMT A sacking in Whitehall is revealing the strain Brexit has put on the United Kingdoms foreign policy. British Prime Minister Theresa May fired Defense Secretary Gavin Williamson on Wednesday over leaks to the press of conclusions from a British National Security Council meeting in late April. According to the leak, the British government had decided in the meeting that it would allow Chinese telecommunications firm Huawei to provide non-core components for the construction of the U.K.s 5G mobile infrastructure . The NSCs decision sparked immediate outcry from critics of the decision in the U.K. and U.S. officials who have been urging allies to shun Huawei technology . In a statement, Williamson denied that he had played a role in the disclosure. Whoever leaked the Huawei decision likely hoped the backlash would force the government to reverse course and ban Huawei. A known China hawk, Williamson caused a diplomatic tiff with Beijing in February when he said the first deployment of the new HMS Queen Elizabeth aircraft carrier would be to the Pacific and that the U.K. needed to demonstrate its willingness to use hard power against China and Russia. In response, the Chinese government canceled British Chancellor Philip Hammonds planned visit to China. More important than who leaked the decision, though, is what the discord within the British government says about the limits of British strategic flexibility. A year before the 2016 Brexit referendum, the British government had launched a deliberate campaign to improve ties with China. During a visit to Beijing in 2015, then-British Chancellor George Osborne hailed the start of a golden era in U.K.-China relations and set a goal to make China the U.K.s second-largest trade partner by 2025. In March 2015, the U.K. caused outrage in Washington when it became the first Western country to join Chinas Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank. The same year, the U.K. and China signed nearly 40 billion pounds (worth $60 billion in 2015) in bilateral trade deals. When May took over as prime minister, she tapped the brakes on the golden era. Just weeks into her premiership, May delayed one of the most significant of those bilateral deals plans for Chinas General Nuclear Corporation to buy a 33 percent stake in the 20 billion pound Hinkley Point nuclear power project so that her government could review the contract. During her first official visit to China in February 2018, May raised concerns about sensitive issues like intellectual property theft and steel dumping, and she refused to endorse Chinas massive Belt and Road Initiative . But in the age of global Britain, when the U.K. is downplaying the importance of ties with Europe in favor of the rest of the world and aspiring to free trade agreements with major trade partners, including China, Mays initial position was untenable. Theres been no sign of backtracking on the (unofficial) Huawei decision, even after the U.S. repeated its threat to cease information sharing with countries that use the Chinese firms 5G technology. And last week, Hammond offered British project design and legal, technical and financial services expertise to help China realize the potential of the BRI, even after the U.S. criticized Italys decision to sign a memorandum of understanding related to the project . To be sure, countries around the world are searching for the appropriate balance in relations with the U.S. and China at a time when they are increasingly competing for influence. Countries like the U.K., Germany and France have some strategic flexibility lent by economic heft and a degree of physical isolation from the two powers, separated as they are by an ocean from the U.S. and by Eurasia from China a position few others enjoy. But only London is facing the possible exclusion from a customs union and single market with its largest trading partners, forcing it to curry favor with countries like China in case it needs a rapid trade deal to make up for lost revenue. Its London that is under domestic political pressure to demonstrate to voters that it can thrive on its own without the European Union. If Germany or France who, unlike the U.K., arent actively seeking a trade agreement with Beijing want something from China, they can call on a bloc with a combined economy larger than Chinas to speak for them. If the U.S. wants to withhold a trade deal from one of them, it has to give up its aspiration for a deal with the EU something the U.S. president has wanted for a while. A year ago to the day of Williamsons firing, the chairman of the pro-Brexit European Research Group, Jacob Rees-Mogg, wrote that without the EU, the United Kingdom could build a truly special relationship with the United States. British Trade Secretary Liam Fox said last November that Brexit gave the U.K. the rare opportunity to raise the special relationship with the U.S. to a new level. The problem now is that to do so, the U.K. must choose a side: It cant have a super special relationship with the U.S. and a golden era with China at the same time. The U.K.s eventual exit from the EU means Britain wont have to take orders from Brussels, but it also means balancing between Washington and Beijing will be more important than ever. The deeper the strain in those relations, the less freedom Britain will have in its foreign affairs. Grand Old Partisan salutes Willard Hall, born at Harper's Ferry this day of 1820. He studied law after graduating from Yale. While serving in the 1st Missouri Cavalry during the Mexican War, this young Democrat won the first of three terms in the U.S. House of Representatives. In 1859, he hosted Abraham Lincoln on a visit to St. Joseph. During the Civil War, the Governor and the Lieutenant Governor both Democrats sided with the Confederacy. In response, a state convention deposed them, electing him Lieutenant Governor and another patriot, Governor. Hall also served as brigadier general of the militia. Hall assumed the governorship for a year when the Governor died. He appointed a Republican to the U.S. Senate. Abraham Lincoln named his protege to the federal bench. Here is a Video Version of this article on YouTube: https://youtu.be/a7seq91XrIs 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 See www.youtube.com/q?v=IzxKCiXc5Qc for a brief video of a Texas Republican praising Back to Basics for the Republican Party. "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" " " Dr. Philip Nitschke and design engineer Alexander Bannink present the Sarco suicide pod at a Toronto conference in October 2017. Screenshot of Philip Nitschke YouTube video by HowStuffWorks What if a machine could take all the pain away? At the push of a button, the physical sensations of disease, illness and aging simply slip away from you. Your accumulated trauma, anxieties and fears vanish, along with your consciousness. We're talking about a suicide machine and it's assisted suicide advocate Dr. Philip Nitschke's vision for a more compassionate future. Dubbed the Sarco, the design forces people to re-examine the culturally weighty topic of assisted suicide. Its sleek, podlike design invokes not the grave or a hospital death bed, but a sci-fi escape capsule or a cryonic suspension chamber. Here's Nitschke giving a talk about his invention at a 2017 Toronto conference. Advertisement The concept sounds similar to the suicide booth on TV's "Futurama" minus the gallows humor of course. But you wouldn't simply walk up to the Sarco, insert a coin and choose your death. Instead, you'd take an online test to determine mental fitness and receive an access code good for 24 hours. The code gets you inside the Sarco and, following additional confirmation, liquid nitrogen fills the capsule and the oxygen level dips down to 5 percent. To put that in perspective, the air we breathe is typically 21 percent oxygen. According to Nicole Goodkind's Newsweek article on Nitschke and his machine, the drop in oxygen would cause the user to pass out within one minute and die a few minutes later. In a YouTube video (no longer available) explaining the Sarco, Nitschke says "... we've done tests monitoring the oxygen level, and it drops down to levels which would bring quick loss of consciousness in less than a minute." Nitschke insists that such a death would come relatively painlessly, more akin to cabin depressurization on an airplane, and he has had some experience with operating nitrogen cannisters, as one Vice video demonstrated. As of this writing, the Sarco is still just a concept, but Nitschke told Newsweek that he anticipates wide availability in 2018 and potential licensed use in Swiss clinics. He also intends the Sarco to be 3-D-printable, allowing its creation anywhere in the world. Nitschke is no newcomer to the topic of assisted suicide. The 70-year-old Australian physician founded the international nonprofit Exit International in 1997 and clashed in numerous instances with the Australian medical and legal establishment. He co-authored the 2006 book "The Peaceful Pill Handbook" and has advocated several open-source methods of assisted suicide and voluntary euthanasia. Suicide assisted or otherwise has always been a divisive subject. Do human beings have the right to choose the time, place and manner of their death? If so, what assistance should be available to them? These questions will remain hotly contested for the foreseeable future, but the Sarco pod at least forces us to rethink what voluntary euthanasia could look like. You're Not Alone Are you troubled by suicidal thoughts? You're not alone, and a sympathetic ear is only a phone call away. In the United States, consider calling the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-8255 and visit their website for additional resources tailored toward general and specific needs, such as those of youth, disaster survivors, Native Americans, veterans, loss survivors, LGBTQ and attempt survivors. You'll find a list of international suicide hotlines right here. Penguins At the Cinemark. Shows through Thursday (G) Grade: B- So, what kind of a bird are you if you cant fly? That question from Peter and the Wolf sums up the lives of the flightless seabirds known as penguins. So, whats the point of watching penguins waddle around for 76 minutes or so, traveling 100 miles to a breeding ground? Well, as it turns out, theres a lot to learn from the little feathered folk in tuxedoes. Disneys Penguins anthropomorphized a few of them, giving them names like Steve. All of that is annoying, sliding toward unbearable at times. Its important to note that the 2005 documentary March of the Penguins was a gorgeous National Geographic classic. Morgan Freemans soothing voice took us on that same journey, with much less baby talk and much more silence silence that allowed us to soak up the northern lights, for example. Disneys Penguins is, well, so Disney. But it does have some stunning cinematography. But the narration is excruciating at times. At one point in the adventure, I discovered a way to silence the silliness of the narrator: I put my fingers in my ears. Yes, really. I did. At that point, with only gorgeous cinematography to entertain me, I settled back to enjoy. Granted, I wasnt able to keep all the sound out and I grew tired of this trick but it helped. Ignoring the voices, I settled back to see what we might learn from penguins. Turns out we can learn quite a bit. And so, heres seven takeaways from my visit to Antarctica. 1. Montana winters are nothing, folks. These Adelie penguins, dressed in their finest Eddie Bauer down jackets, withstand long stretches of frigid cold, down to 50 below zero, buried in the snow without food. Other penguins, in other locations, withstand blizzards and 120 degrees below zero. We need to quit complaining. 2. Cherish friends well need them when leopard seals arrive. Leopard seals eat penguins, by the hundreds. But when waddlers team up with their friends, the seals retreat. 3. Boys act silly in mating season. They go to a lot of trouble attract the cute ladies. Reminds me of college guys, except college girls arent quite so gullible as lady penguins. 4. Cold unlivable places are quite pretty! Antarctica is gorgeous in the heart of winter. Thats why the penguins dress up, I figure. When you go to a fancy place, you wanna look good. 5. Monogamy! Sometimes called serial monogamists, penguins are loyal to their mates and they cuddle a lot. Many are faithful through a single season. Some are loyal through multiple seasons. But DNA tests, not administered by Jerry Springer, are showing that there may be a touch of cheating going on. I wonder if penguins listen to country music? 6. Male penguins pull their share of their marriage. After the lady gives birth, the male shelters the egg while mama goes hunting for food. She brings back a belly full, and regurgitates it to her baby. Now thats disgusting, frankly, but given the lack of stainless containers, I do understand. 7. Cute is not enough to make it in the world. See leopard seals above. Moral of the story is that penguins are indeed fascinating, but parents should rent the 2005 March of the Penguins to let their kids learn why. Love 2 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Voters have approved a ballot measure calling for an increase to the elementary school general fund levy. The measure received 7,160 votes, for 57.15%, and 5,368 votes against, 42.85%, in the preliminary results for school election. These results include all ballots counted. However, election results will not be official until after the governing body canvasses the election. Any provisional ballots will be added to the count after 3 p.m. Monday. A total of 13,738 ballots were cast, representing a 34.24% voter turnout. The levy will raise $103,594 per year for Helena Public Schools elementary district. Trustee Luke Muszkiewicz said at the candidate forum late last month that the money wouldn't be earmarked for any specific item. Rather, the money will supplement the district's general fund and allow the district to continue offering competitive benefits and salaries to teachers and employees. The levy adds a property tax increase of about $1.35 on a home with a $100,000 market value and $2.70 on a home with a $200,000 market value. In the race to fill three seats on the board of trustees for Helena Public Schools, Elizabeth "Libby" Goldes, John H. McEwen and Siobhan Hathhorn seem to have clinched victory. Goldes and McEwen were the only two candidates to appear on the ballot. Incumbent Goldes received 8,059 votes, or 37.59%, and has served on Helena Public Schools' board of trustees for the past 12 years. "I'd like to thank the voters of the school district for their support," Goldes said, after the preliminary results were released. "I look forward to another three years of working for the students, teachers and staff to help provide the best education possible for our children." Goldes will soon have a grandchild attending school in the district. "It's an exciting time with the opening of the three new schools," Goldes said. "But there is a lot of work to be done. I'll do my best to use my experience to address the ongoing challenges." McEwen received 7,619 votes or 35.54%. This election marks the third time McEwen has sought election to the school board. "I'm excited to be on the school board and help out," McEwen said. "To use my knowledge and expertise to help the school district grow." The retired state government worker ran for the past two elections. McEwen said he enjoyed participating in the election. "I think everybody should run for public office at least one," McEwen said. Hathhorn took the lead over the other seven write-in candidates. During the final preliminary account, Hathhorn received more than 2,600 votes. The next closest write-in candidate was Ella Currier, who received just over 1,100 votes. "I am honored to be elected as a school trustee, and look forward to working with fellow board members," said Hathhorn, after hearing the preliminary results. "It is also exciting to have the opportunity to represent the people of the Helena School District, and will make student learning the focal point of my mission." Hathhorn holds a masters in educational leadership from Western Governors University and has a long education career. She spent 15 years as an elementary teacher at Helena Public Schools and three years as a principal at Cascade Public Schools. "I would like to thank everyone who worked hard on my behalf to secure a spot for me on the Helena Public Schools Board of Trustees," Hathhorn said. Who is running: Ten candidates are competing for the three seats up for election this year. All school board positions have three-year terms. Helena school board candidate surveys Ten candidates are running for the three seats up for election on the Helena Public Schools Board of Education this year. Ballots will be mail Love 4 Funny 0 Wow 1 Sad 1 Angry 14 The missing and endangered person advisory for 8-year-old Jennifer Graham has been canceled. Officials reported she and her parents were located in Idaho, and she is not in danger. Additional details were not provided. A missing and endangered person advisory has been issued for an 8-year-old girl last seen Monday at her school, according to the Flathead County Sheriff's Office. The white female, Jennifer Graham, is 4 feet, 5 inches tall and weighs 60 pounds, with blue eyes and brown hair. Officials believe she is with her father, Tom Graham. The 73-year-old white man is 6 feet tall and weighs 175 pounds, with blue eyes and white hair. They may be heading to Myrtle Creek, Oregon, Oklahoma or Texas in a 2013 Blue Dodge Caravan with Montana license plate E0760. According to an alert from the Montana Department of Justice, the girl did not return to school after officials received a report that she was being physically abused by her father. She "is believed to be in danger of physical harm and has significant mental health needs," the alert says. The girl's mother Christie Graham, who is known to have a traumatic brain injury and cannot operate a vehicle, might also be traveling with them. Anyone with information is asked to dial 911 or call the Flathead County Sheriff's Office at 406-758-5610. Love 0 Funny 1 Wow 2 Sad 4 Angry 4 A Montana construction company faces $261,000 in fines after three of its workers were burned by hot oil at a mobile asphalt plant in Laurel in October, according to citations issued by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration last month. The April 17 citations state that Kalispell-based Nelcon Inc., a contractor hired by the Montana Department of Transportation to complete highway work near Laurel, racked up more than two dozen health and safety violations identified by federal investigators. Nelcons work at the construction site has previously been the subject of sanctions from the federal safety agency. In 2017, the company was cited for multiple violations after construction equipment was found to have tipped over into a gravel pit filled with water. The most recent citations include violations stemming from an Oct. 25 incident in which Nelcon employees suffered second- and third-degree burns while pouring oil into a heating container used as part of the asphalt-mixing process. Oil heated to 450 degrees reacted with cooler oil and spilled onto the workers, according to the citation. OSHA has proposed tens of thousands of dollars in fines related to the incident, which was compounded by Nelcons failure to provide personal protective equipment for workers eyes, faces and hands. The company also failed to report the hospitalizations of its workers within the 24-hour time frame mandated by federal law, according to the citations. The safety citation also alleges that employees were exposed to caught-in and amputation hazards identified during a follow-up inspection on Oct. 29. Federal inspectors also found the company exposed workers to fall hazards on unguarded, elevated platforms and other parts of the site. The agencys inspectors say they also observed workers entering a confined barrel drum mixer to clean the equipment and perform maintenance, where they were exposed to potentially flammable and/or oxygen-deficient atmospheres. Additional violations include more amputation risks, exposure to potential explosions and fires due to an uncapped acetylene tank stored outside the maintenance trailer and exposure to electrical shocks due to incorrectly installed equipment. Beyond the safety violations, OSHA also issued a health citation that found Nelcon in violation of requirements to provide facilities for flushing eyes and skin that have been exposed to hazardous chemicals, and to properly label hazardous chemicals and train employees on their safe use. A request for comment from Nelcon was not returned Wednesday. The company had 15 working days from the receipt of the citations either to contest OSHAs findings or to correct the violations. Whether Nelcon has contested any of the violations is unclear. OSHAs Billings-area director, Art Hazen, referred questions to Department of Labor spokesman Jose Carnevali. Carnevali did not respond to a list of emailed questions, instead requesting anonymity to discuss the status of the citations. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 1 A Billings man has been indicted for allegedly defrauding a Canadian bank in an oil tanker scheme. Todd Capser, 47, was arrested Wednesday in Billings by the FBI on an indictment from the U.S. Southern District of New York. Prosecutors accuse Capser of providing misleading information about his assets to leverage $43.3 million from a Toronto lender identified only as "Financial Institution 1." In a related civil lawsuit filed in U.S. District Court in Montana, the lender is identified as Third Eye Capital Corporation of Toronto. Capser's business is identified as "Wayfare Transoceanic." The money was to pay for chemical and oil shipping tankers bought from a Hong Kong shipping firm. Capser apparently bought the tankers at $20 million apiece with the intention of leasing them back to the shipping company for $8,500 a day. Afterward, Capser allegedly solicited similar investments from at least nine other lenders. Activities in the indictment begin in 2016. Other fake items were presented as collateral, including the phony $400 million proceeds from the sale of a fake cattle ranch. Todd Capser, as alleged, managed to mislead a Canadian financial institution into lending him more than $43 million, and tried to mislead other financial institutions into lending him tens of millions of dollars more, by creating mountains of false evidence of his solvency to represent himself as a legitimate business owner," said U.S. Attorney Geoffrey S. Berman in a press release. "Capser is now in custody and faces significant time in prison for his alleged crimes. The FBI also identified Capser's father, Edward Michael Capser, as being part of the scheme, though criminal charges have not been filed against Edward Michael Capser. The father and son are both defendants in the related civil lawsuit. The father is known as an artist in the Billings community. Filed in a federal district court in Montana on April 10, the civil lawsuit identifies Edward Michael Capser as backing the $43 million loan with a bogus investment portfolio worth at least $30 million. No one answered the phone Wednesday when The Billings Gazette attempted to contact Edward Michael Capser. In addition, Todd Capser is also alleged to have fabricated fake email accounts for employees of Bessemer Trust, a legitimate company presented by Capser as managing the bogus portfolio. The phony email accounts were then used to give TEC daily updates about the bogus portfolio, which the Capsers promised never to drop below $30 million. Last December, Bessemer informed TEC that the trust company had no investment portfolio for Edward Michael Capser. The man had never been a customer, according to Bessemer. U.S. attorneys in New York also faulted Todd Capser for fabricating family emergencies to explain his odd behavior. "In addition, in an effort to engender sympathy, deflect questions, and explain suspicious behavior, Capser falsely represented to certain of the Financial Institutions that his daughter was terminally ill with cancer," the U.S. attorney said. Capser has been charged with wire fraud, felony conspiracy to commit wire fraud, and aggravated identity theft. If convicted, the Billings man could face up to 43 years in prison. Capser was a former state director for the late U.S. Sen. Conrad Burns, R-Mont. A decade ago, he was profiled in the Billings Gazette "40 under Forty" feature of up-and-coming professionals younger than 40 years old. Love 0 Funny 5 Wow 3 Sad 1 Angry 5 The proposed purchase of a Broadwater County ranch for incorporation into Montanas network of wildlife management areas will not move forward. Last October, the Montana Fish and Wildlife Commission greenlighted Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks to explore the purchase of 5,000 acres of the G Bar T Ranch in the Big Belt Mountains southeast of Helena. Located along Confederate Creek north of Townsend, under state ownership the area would have been managed for elk and deer winter range and public hunting access. This week, FWP spokesman Greg Lemon said the deal fell through after the agency and the landowner could not come to terms. He did not believe FWP got to the point of completing an appraisal of the property to make an offer. By law, the state of Montana cannot pay more than appraised value for land purchases. The 5,200-acre ranch has been on the market for about two years and listed at $10.5 million. That price includes a nearly 7,000-square-foot house and acreage that would have been carved out and remained in private hands. FWP listed several reasons for interest in the property, including an elk population well above objectives and a number of past conflicts with public hunters accessing interspersed public lands. FWP has taken several steps in an effort to reduce the elk herd, including damage hunts, a shoulder season in the southern portion of the district and allowing harvest of antlerless elk with a general license. The real estate agent representing the G Bar T said at the time a sale to the state would provide an opportunity to better manage elk numbers and public hunting. The agent did not respond to an email in time for this story. At an April Broadwater County Commission meeting broadcast by the Broadwater Reporter, several landowners spoke out in opposition to the purchase. Most notably former Republican Rep. Kelly Flynn, who ranches in the area, told commissioners the purchase could have implications for agriculture. He voiced concerns about what high appraised values could mean for other farms and ranches. If the sale becomes a comp at a higher price, it then drives up values unsustainably for ranchers and farmers hoping to stay on the ground, he said. When the government has the deep pockets it puts pressure on every single one working farmers and ranchers in this county, he said. It may look really good for the public, but it would not be very good for the farmers and ranchers if the value is way above the appraised value in Broadwater County. Flynn also voiced concerns about control of noxious weeds on government managed lands. Reporter Tom Kuglin can be reached at 447-4076 @IR_TomKuglin Love 3 Funny 2 Wow 0 Sad 8 Angry 21 Be the first to know Get local news delivered to your inbox! Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. CHICAGO Suburban Express, a bus company in Urbana-Champaign that recently was sanctioned by the Illinois attorney general for discriminatory and harassing business practices, is shutting down. Dennis Toeppen, who has owned and operated the company since 1983, announced his intention to cease all operations and take down all websites for Suburban Express and his associated businesses in a Tuesday federal court filing. Toeppen said the decision was effective immediately and "wind-down accounting" would take place over the next four to eight weeks. "I stopped enjoying this business around 2001, and I think it's beginning to show," Toeppen wrote. He could not be reached for further comment. His website led to a dead page Wednesday. The company, which largely served university students, created a firestorm in late 2017 when it distributed an email promoting fares and schedules for the winter holiday season. Listing the reasons passengers should choose Suburban Express, the ad stated: "Passengers like you. You won't feel like you're in China when you're on our buses." The comment was referring to the sizable population of Chinese students at University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Criticism swelled when the company then followed with a statement titled "Apology," saying the original email was referring to a competitor that Toeppen claimed mostly served Chinese students. The message took aim at U. of I.'s admissions policies. "We agree that having a healthy mixture of different cultures and ethnicities is valuable," the message stated. "But we're not comfortable with the idea of selling our university to the highest foreign bidder. In any event, we did not intend to offend half the planet." The controversy caught the attention of then-Attorney General Lisa Madigan, who launched an investigation into the company for potential civil rights violations. Madigan sued the company in April 2018 in Chicago federal court. Madigan said her probe revealed "rampant and equally egregious examples of ... illegal conduct," such as encouraging employees not to serve students who weren't native English speakers. Madigan also alleged Toeppen posted a video mocking Asian students at U. of I. and banned customers with billing addresses in Chicago suburbs with sizable Jewish populations. In one email, Madigan said, Toeppen called a customer "a pushy little Chinese international student with a fragile ego" who "should go back to your country and stay there," according to the lawsuit. In another email he wrote, "Bone up on your English a little so you don't have more problems like this in my country" the suit stated. In April, the two sides agreed to a consent decree, requiring Suburban Express to pay $100,000 for customer refunds, implement new anti-discrimination policies and training for employees, and undergo periodic reviews of operations, ads and complaints filed by customers. The attorney general's office, now under Kwame Raoul, said Suburban Express would remain under strict compliance monitoring for at least three years. Toeppen remained defiant and likened the deal to extortion. Within days, Raoul's office returned to federal court to say Toeppen already was violating the terms of the agreement. The attorney general argued Toeppen "flouted" the requirement that the company not attack and penalize customers "by posting a defamatory web page that penalizes a customer through viciously attacking the customer solely for online comments about Suburban Express," according to an April 17 court filing. Raoul's office also alleged the company website attacked people of Asian origin, in one case posting an individual's address, phone number and email address. "On this page, Defendants attack this individual as an 'insane' 'spoiled child,' " the court filing states. "Defendants proceed to attack the individual's father, also of Asian origin, accusing the father of having a business not in good standing with the State of Illinois and asserting that '(t)here seems to be something fundamentally wrong with the parenting in' the individual's family." In April, U.S. District Judge Andrea Wood ruled that Toeppen had one day to bring his business and websites into compliance with the consent decree. A few more filings were submitted to the court before Toeppen announced his intention to close the business. Toeppen wrote that the company planned to make the required $100,000 payment to the state around May 15. "Although Mr. Toeppen has informed the court that Suburban Express has ceased operations, the defendants are still obligated to comply with the consent decree," Annie Thompson, spokeswoman for the attorney general, said in a statement. "Our office is currently reviewing Mr. Toeppen's filing to determine its impact on the consent decree and Suburban Express customers." Should Suburban Express close, it would mark an unexpected end to a business that has been controversial for years. It long drew rebuke for its "Page of Shame," which posted names and personal information of customers accused of skipping out on fares. The company also became known for publicly firing back at dissatisfied customers, something it was ordered to stop doing as the lawsuit proceeded. The Tribune also reported in 2013 how the company filed small claims lawsuits in Ford County -- about a half-hour drive from Champaign -- against dozens of students, seeking to collect fines for so-called violations like boarding the wrong bus, using tickets on the wrong date or seeking refunds for unused tickets. The company later reversed course and dropped all its suits in Ford County. Toeppen maintained his defiant stance to the end, signing off with a parting shot. "We have decided not to facilitate or aid in replacement of Champaign-Urbana service," he wrote. "Instead, we prefer to sit on the sidelines and watch as competitor's fares rise, frequency falls, and passenger injuries and fatalities increase. "We have never had a passenger injury or fatality in 35 years." Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 DECATUR JC Fultz, chief meteorologist at WAND-TV in Decatur, is leaving the NBC affiliate after 17 years. Fultz said in a Facebook post he plans to pursue "a new adventure outside of the television industry," adding that he is excited to spend evenings and weekends with his wife and daughters. His last day will be Wednesday, May 29. Fultz, a Central Illinois native, thanked viewers for inviting him into their homes. "This is what I have wanted to do since I was 5 years old!" he wrote. "I have met some amazing people over the course of my career and made some lifelong friends." He is a graduate of Eastern Illinois University with a bachelor's degree in electronic media and communication studies and a minor in broadcast meteorology. In December, WAND morning meteorologist Adam Del Rosso left the station to join AccuWeather Inc. in State College, Pennsylvania. A LOOK BACK AT DECATUR-AREA BROADCAST PERSONALITIES Love 4 Funny 2 Wow 3 Sad 14 Angry 5 DECATUR Richland Community College and Millikin University announced on Wednesday a dual admission program for those seeking a bachelor of science in nursing. Richland President Cristobal Valdez welcomed the administrators from Millikin who attended the news conference in the Schrodt Health Education Center on Richland's campus. It's apropos that you all came to campus, because we're going to send all our students to you, he joked. When we first talked about this, it occurred to me that this is a manifestation of the work that's happening here in Decatur, he said. It's cooperation and working together to benefit the citizens of this community. Richland and Millikin have had a long and mutually beneficial relationship, he said, and this agreement is further evidence of it. Millikin President Patrick White said some 300 of Millikin's current students have earned at least some credits at Richland, ranging from one or two classes to students who earned an associate degree at Richland and transferred to Millikin to complete their bachelor's degrees. With the Macon Matters grant, which provides all Macon County students a $22,000 scholarship to Millikin, he said, he expects even more. The nursing students will be eligible for that scholarship, too. This is an exciting new step in a longtime relationship and a relationship of collaboration between Richland Community College and Millikin University, White said. As (Valdez) rightly said, we are all in the extraordinary, wonderful and important game of concerning ourselves with how do we staff the health professions of the future. "We all know the national nursing shortage, we all know the nursing shortage in the state and we think we at Richland Community College and Millikin have one answer to that. Let the strength of Millikin and Richland Community College come together so we can work in ways that will benefit our students and use the strengths of both of our institutions. Florence Nightingale, he added, would be pleased. She was the orignator of modern nursing practices and training and one formidable administrator, he said. Recent recommendations nationally have suggested that health care organizations should seek to have a minimum of 80 percent of their registered nurses with a bachelor's degree, said Elizabeth Gephart, acting director of Millikin's School of Nursing, and more and more students are choosing to continue their educations in pursuit of one. What we're announcing today is a dual admission designed for nurses who are coming into Richland to be able to apply to Millikin at the same time they're taking their first courses at Richland," Gepart said. "We're saying, if you start at Richland, you have a place, a home, at Millikin as well," she said. The agreement will provide students the opportunity to apply to both Richland and Millikin's programs simultaneously, with advisers who can guide them through their education at both institutions. The hope is to make the transition seamless. Students who complete their associate degree at Richland and pass the national licensure exam can move immediately into the bachelor's completion program at Millikin, which will be a mix of online and classroom, plus clinical experience. I'm very proud of the quality of education that students receive here at Richland, said Ellen Colbeck, dean of health professions at Richland. Our faculty provide great experiences for students. As Dr. Gephart said, it's also important that we have ways for our graduates to transition to baccalaureate programs. This program recently signed allows us connect them to baccalaureate education while enrolled in our program. Students must commit to pursuing a bachelor's degree to put those wheels in motion, and once they do, they can receive a 10 percent tuition discount at Millikin for three years, which will allow part-time study while working if necessary. Completing the bachelor's degree after finishing Richland's program and passing the liscensure exam can take as little as one year. Jacob Rotramel of Decatur already planned to pursue a bachelor's degree when he finishes at Richland but had not yet decided where he would study, he said, but now he can plan on Millikin. He's in his third semester of four and hopes to be a critical care nurse. After this, I'm definitely going to go to Millikin, he said. I've talked to people here and that's the way I'm going to go. Shelby Beiler, of Macon, said she wants to be a traveling nurse, and a bachelor's degree will allow her to work in any state, which an associate degree alone might not. Contact Valerie Wells at (217) 421-7982. Follow her on Twitter: @modgirlreporter Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 2 Want to see more like this? Get our local education coverage delivered directly to your inbox. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. DECATUR People and organizations that work throughout the year to make Macon County a better place were recognized Wednesday for their efforts to support United Way of Decatur & Mid-Illinois. The nonprofit organization helps dozens of Decatur groups and social service agencies with the funds raised during its annual campaign. In October 2018, the local chapter announced a goal of $1.6 million. "Tonight is all about celebrating the awesome organizations that, year after year, help change the face of our community," Executive Director Debbie Bogle said. More than 100 people attended the annual meeting and award ceremony at the Decatur Club to celebrate individual and corporate contributions. In Macon County, funding raised is divided into five areas: adult education and job skills training; youth education; health; safety; and essential services and links for people who need to be connected with other programs. United Way has also provided support to agencies in DeWitt, Moultrie, Shelby and Piatt counties. Caterpillar Inc. was awarded Campaign of the Year and several employees also received the Live United award. The company's campaign had an $85,000 increase this year. "Caterpillar is such an amazing company and we are so blessed to have them," Bogle said. "We truly would not be able to do what we do without them." Caterpillar team member and co-leader of the campaign Nichole DeBerry said planning for the campaigns is a lengthy process but she is excited for upcoming campaign projects. "There are so many companies doing a lot of great things where United Way is concerned, so it is a huge honor to receive two awards," DeBerry said. Anne Snyder was named volunteer of the year, praised for her willingness to help no matter the circumstances. "Anne is someone who is one of the first person to sign up for volunteer opportunities even if it means she will be standing out in the hot sun all day or will sit in the rain with an umbrella," Bogle said. "She is always there when we need her." Snyder has also assisted in the investment process and said United Way employees make volunteering easy. "Your staff is so dedicated and your encouragement is infectious," Snyder said. The following people and businesses also received awards during the meeting: LIVE UNITED Awards Jamie Gower Decatur Park District Nichole DeBerry, Chatterica Grandberry, Dave Dawson - Caterpillar Leslie Risby Heritage Behavioral Tom Anderson Nick Smith Neuhoff Media/ Door 4 BKD, LLP EMPLOYEE CAMPAIGN LEADER (ECL) of the Year award Tate & Lyle Campaign Committee CAMPAIGN OF THE YEAR award Caterpillar A COMPANY THAT CARES award Hickory Point Bank & Trust NEW CAMPAIGN OF THE YEAR award Vector OUR CHAMPION award Patty Gogerty ECL of the Year Moultrie County Krystal Rose Contact Analisa Trofimuk at (217) 421-7985. Follow her on Twitter: @AnalisaTro Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 CHICAGO It's pitch-black in Jasper County, Illinois not yet 5 a.m. and Bob Gillespie is running late. Gillespie, a wildlife biologist at Prairie Ridge State Natural Area near Newton, opens a gate with a do not enter sign at the edge of a meadow and starts a wet slog across the uneven ground on his way to a patch of field that he has carefully prepared for the main event in his working year the mating dance of the Illinois greater prairie chicken, one of the state's most endangered species. He is practiced and sure-footed in the dark, hustling a little so that he can conceal himself in a blind before the birds arrive. He keeps time by the birdsong that rises up from the grasses all around him. "You can hear a little bit of winnowing snipe; bobwhite quail off in the distance, just starting," he says. "We've got a meadowlark singing already, so it won't be very long now." Then, an otherworldly sound floats up from the darkened meadow, the lyrical "booming" springtime chorus of the male prairie chicken flock. Gillespie has heard the mating song hundreds of times, and yet, the moment still resonates with a sort of primeval wonder -- a flicker of what it means to be alive in the natural world. "This is just a phenomenon of nature," says Gillespie. "This spring courtship is like nothing else, and it really represents the true prairie. If you think about it, it's a really important element of biodiversity for our state." Yet, in spite of decades of conservation efforts, this unique species remains imperiled. This week, the United Nations' Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services released a groundbreaking scientific study on biodiversity, which found that 1 million species worldwide are facing extinction. The loss of species, the report noted, is a threat to biodiversity that has direct implications for water quality, food security and, ultimately, human survival. "The numbers are so big," says Susan Casey-Lefkowitz, chief program officer of the Natural Resources Defense Council, "that they sound a call for action throughout the world." That, she says, includes our state's 200-odd remaining prairie chickens. "The story of the greater prairie chicken is the story of so many species," says Casey-Lefkowitz. "Their decline mirrors the decline of the prairie, and all the species that depend on it. There's an interconnectedness to the greater prairie chicken story." The prairie itself is among the most endangered ecosystems, with an estimated 4 percent of tallgrass prairie habitat remaining nationwide, according to the Audubon Society. Prairie birds have shown the sharpest declines in population of any bird group in North America. The lives of prairie chickens are deeply intertwined with the life cycle of the grasslands -- the birth of their young, for instance, is timed to the annual prairie grasshopper bloom, a perfect source of nourishment. "Prairie provides everything a prairie chicken needs," says Gillespie, and it does the same for a range of other species, such as the ornate box turtle and the increasingly rare Henslow's sparrow. Yet "when we look at what is needed," says Casey-Lefkowitz, "it is not too late to save species across the world, and we need to be sure that we are conserving and restoring species. There are all kinds of small-scale efforts that are emblematic of what we need to be doing." In Illinois, two generations of the Gillespie family have thrown themselves into the effort to re-create grassland habitat and save the greater prairie chicken. Jim Gillespie, Bob's father, remembers growing up on the family farm near Newton, about 90 miles south of Champaign, close enough to the prairie chickens that "every once in awhile you'd be out in the car going to town, and prairie chickens would fly across the road." Even then, the prairie chickens were long past their late 1800s heyday, when they numbered in the millions across Illinois and were harvested by the ton to be served up in restaurants in Chicago, Indianapolis and St. Louis. Their status as icons of the prairie was assured: Mark Twain immortalized "prairie hens from Illinois" on a list of his favorite foods; Laura Ingalls Wilder wrote about them in "Little House on the Prairie;" Native American tribes such as the Blackfoot still perform ceremonial dances based on the prairie chicken mating dance. By the time Jim Gillespie was in college studying wildlife management in the early 1970s, conservationists were already hard at work trying to save the remnant of that immense flock. He got a job working on a large-scale study of greater prairie chicken nesting behavior that documented the exact kinds of nesting materials and surrounding plants the birds preferred. That work proved to be a roadmap for his son, who works carefully to manage the Prairie Ridge grasslands to the precise height and composition that a nesting hen desires. Jim worked for the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and as a farmer, and pointed his son toward a love of nature. "I was brought up in a conservation mindset," says Bob, "and the prairie chickens were always interesting creatures. It just lined up that the sanctuary was here right out my back door." Then, as now, the spring mating dance was a treat that most people weren't lucky enough to see. The prairie chicken, actually a kind of grouse, makes full use of its showy appearance, which for males comes complete with inflatable air sacs on the neck and a patterned tail that fans out for dancing. When hens visit the lek, or booming ground, where males have carefully staked out bedroom-sized territories determined by a series of sparring matches, "You see them stomping their feet, and you can even hear it," says Bob. "It's wonderful. They'll inflate their air sacs, bright orange, the color of the rising sun, and then they'll stand up some feathers on the back of their heads. They'll boom, and they'll cackle, and you'll also hear a whoop. That's a sound they make only for the hens." The birds, a species that shared his native prairie, captured Bob's imagination. Summer breaks in high school found him working at Prairie Ridge, where he'd cut brush or run errands for park staff or, on better days, get a chance to help look for freshwater mussels or count prairie chickens. "I have a long, long history with this animal," he says. In 2013, after grad school and a first job working in Missouri, Bob Gillespie returned home to work at Prairie Ridge once again. He arrived at a particularly dark time for the birds -- drought and a violent hailstorm had wreaked havoc on the population, decreasing their numbers to around 60 birds. "That was a very, very critical point, and we had to do something quickly," he says. The recovery effort turned to a translocation strategy, which calls for birds from a more robust prairie chicken population in another state in this case, Kansas to be captured and released in the Prairie Ridge preserve, the bird's only remaining habitat in Illinois. The goal is to increase the flock's genetic stability and allow for population growth through successful reproduction, because low numbers of birds result in inbreeding, which causes genetic drift, meaning fewer viable eggs and weaker young. "Translocation is a very drastic measure," says Gillespie. "It's something as a conservationist you don't necessarily want to do, but when you have such a small and isolated population, it's necessary." Gillespie led the translocation effort, trapping birds in Kansas and releasing them at Prairie Ridge -- while weathering some controversy that included political squawking about use of state planes to safely and quickly transport the birds. He knows that the strategy of moving birds from one place to another isn't always easy to understand. But he maintains its importance, and notes that the long-term plan for prairie chicken survival in Illinois may one day include another batch of translocated birds. "The greater prairie chicken is conservation dependent," he says. "It can't survive without our intervention. It's a societal choice too. Do we want to maintain endangered species? Do we want to maintain species that are representative of the great prairie of Illinois? Or do we care less about that, and want to allow them to die out and diminish the landscape? That's the argument." For Gillespie, there's only one answer. "I've worked with greater prairie chickens all my life. And every one of them is important to me." He spends his days at Prairie Ridge carefully monitoring the birds and other species dependent on the habitat he and his crew maintain, making sure the highly dynamic grasslands are "pushed toward their healthiest, most diverse state." Following the translocation project, which ended last year, the Illinois prairie chicken flock is up to around 200 birds. "So far, we're very pleased with what we're seeing," Gillespie says. "When we started, we had 14 males in Jasper County and now we're seeing 73. The booming grounds have increased dramatically in size. That's a good sign." Researchers at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign have launched a new study on prairie chicken genetics to assess the gene pool before and after translocation, which may help inform other conservationists employing this strategy to save species. Other signs point the way forward as well. Gillespie has hope that more land can be purchased to increase prairie chicken habitat in Illinois. "We have a great agricultural heritage in Illinois," he says, "but we have a great prairie heritage too." And, he says, a stronger Illinois population could one day help support other flocks, should tragedy strike elsewhere. As the sun comes up at Prairie Ridge, Gillespie looks out across a booming ground filled with strutting, sparring males -- a group he studies so closely that he recognizes most of them on sight -- and knows he's in the right place. "The reason we do this," he says, "is that greater prairie chickens are important wherever they are. They're a great symbol of the American prairie. They're a unique organism that we should protect for ourselves, and for the people who come after us." Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 BELLEVILLE An average of 100 children die each year despite Illinois Department of Children and Family Services involvement with their families, even after pledges to make improvements in the aftermath of tragedies. "This consistent number of child deaths shows that the State of Illinois is failing to improve and ensure the protection of children, even when it knows they are at risk," Meryl Paniak, the acting inspector general of DCFS, wrote last week to state officials. Lawmakers had asked Paniak's opinion as they look for solutions to the problems within DCFS -- again. They had already called for changes to the agency, which can guide parents to drug and alcohol treatment or take children out of their home if it isn't safe. And DCFS already promised reforms. They made that promise in 2017, the same year that 2-month-old Matthew Elkins died on a mattress he shared with eight siblings and his parents in their New Douglas home, where the rooms were filled with hundreds of bags of garbage. Then, 2-year-old Kane Friess-Wylie died in Belleville. Then, 6-year-old Liam Roberts in Jerseyville. Their families had all been reported to DCFS for suspected abuse or neglect before the boys were suffocated, beaten and starved in 2017. DCFS officials have been saying for years that the agency needs increased staffing to take care of Illinois' most vulnerable kids. Now, the request for the budget year that starts in July includes the largest increase the agency has seen in 20 years and a plan to add 126 employees. Marc Smith, DCFS' new director, said it will give investigators smaller caseloads and better oversight with more supervisors. But some lawmakers and child advocates think the state should be investing in the foster care and adoption systems. They recently questioned caseworkers' judgments to keep children like Liam, Kane, Matthew and, most recently, AJ Freund with their parents when there were multiple reports of abuse in some cases. Authorities believe AJ, of Crystal Lake, was beaten to death April 15, months after DCFS decided the last abuse allegation against his parents was unfounded. There also is the case of 2-year-old TaNaja Barnes, the Decatur girl police say was allowed to starve and freeze to death by her mother and mother's boyfriend in February. DCFS interim director Debra Dyer-Webster at the time said the agency was devastated and working with law enforcement to investigate. We have a responsibility to the children and families we serve to provide the best possible care, she said, and we are committed to understanding where we come up short and striving to do better. Why kids aren't removed from home For years, Illinois has taken the least amount of children into state care nationally, Danielle Gomez told legislators at a hearing last month. "I don't know that it's always a good thing," said Gomez, an attorney at the Cook County Public Guardian, representing mostly children in DCFS care. "I think we need to look at where it is that we're setting that bar for when children need more protection and need to be in care." The front-line staff understand that the cases with the highest risk to children are the ones where they stay with their parents while the agency continues to check in on them, according to Anne Gold, DCFS' associate deputy for child protection. The investigators have to try to decide whether there is an "urgent and immediate necessity" to take children out of their homes, she said. They have to demonstrate "reasonable efforts" were made to keep the family together. "That's the expectation that we have to meet when we come into a courtroom," she said under questioning at the hearing. "And if the court does not feel that we've met those standards, those children will be returned home in spite of the fact that we initially removed them." One of the legislators supporting more resources for state care options, state Rep. Anna Moeller, D-Elgin, said she saw herself in 5-year-old AJ Freund's story. Both were born exposed to opiates because their mothers used drugs while they were pregnant. Both were taken into protective custody by DCFS. But only AJ returned to his mother -- after he was born with the drugs in his system and again, years later, after he told a doctor, "Maybe someone hit me with a belt. Maybe mommy didn't mean to hurt me." "We need to understand how the system failed this child so that we can make the appropriate changes," Moeller said during the recent legislative hearing. "... No one wants to be in the situation where we're hearing about another child being murdered by their parents because DCFS felt that that was the most appropriate place for them to be." Demanding accountability Gold, the associate deputy for child protection at DCFS, acknowledged last month that what AJ told the doctor about being hit with a belt was a red flag and a "missed opportunity" to ask more questions. Before confiding in the nurse, AJ told the caseworker the family's dog gave him a bruise on his hip. On Tuesday, Moeller and state Rep. Sara Feigenholtz, D-Chicago, announced a new caucus on child welfare reform and filed a piece of legislation to add more accountability for caseworkers who make those calls. The bill would require DCFS administrators to review about 5% of unfounded cases involving children who are 5 years old or younger, which means they aren't in school where teachers might be able to spot signs of neglect. DCFS has been investigating its faults in cases like AJ's and making recommendations to do better each year for two decades, since the General Assembly created the Office of the Inspector General. Still, children are dying. Before AJ, Liam, Kane or Matthew, it was 4-year-old Emily Rose Perrin in Dupo, whose family called her Princess. DCFS had received 10 reports of suspected abuse by the time Emily died April 10, 2016, a day before her 5th birthday. Her mother was accused of smothering her. An internal report about the case that was released to the Belleville News-Democrat through a public records request in 2017 criticized the caseworker for encouraging "a consistent medication and therapy regimen for family members" instead of taking more serious steps like obtaining a court order or custody. In budget year 2018, the latest studied by the Inspector General, 98 children died after their families had contact with DCFS. Their cases were scrutinized for possible errors by DCFS out of the agency's 81,278 total investigations of families in that time. So far this year, there have been 103 deaths of children following DCFS involvement, according to numbers provided by acting Inspector General Paniak. The strain on DCFS In her May 3 memo to state officials, Paniak stated that the recommendations from the Office of the Inspector General have not always been accepted by DCFS directors. Media attention and analysis of DCFS' work, excessive caseloads and unrealistic expectations for investigators have made the job overwhelming, she added. During the state budget impasse, most investigators' caseloads violated a federal rule that limits the number of investigations they can take on each month, according to an audit released Tuesday by the Illinois Auditor General's office. For nine months of the year, they can't have more than 12 assignments. For the other three months, the limit is 15. Gold said the average caseload today is 12 investigations, but some staff are up to 15. "And those are the areas where DCFS is looking at hiring staff," she said. When the state went nearly two years without a budget and the number of DCFS investigators declined, about 79 percent of them had more than 15 new assignments in at least one month they worked, according to the audit. The agency monitors caseloads across the state on a monthly basis now, Gold said. DCFS has also seen 12 directors come and go over the last 10 years. Smith has only had the title since April 15. "This committee has heard the words 'new director' far too often," he told legislators last month. "You have heard year after year that this department is facing significant challenges. "I take on this role with humility to learn from the past but also with determination and belief that we can and must do better." The Auditor General gave DCFS 13 recommendations to improve. More guidance is coming; the experts from Chicago's Chapin Hall Center For Children, who Gov. J.B. Pritzker asked to review DCFS, have until May to give their advice on the changes it needs. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 SPRINGFIELD Organizations that provide home and community-based services for low-income, elderly and disabled people in Illinois told lawmakers Wednesday the reimbursement rates they receive through the states Medicaid program do not cover their cost of providing services. Some might go out of business if they dont see substantial rate increases soon, they warned. Providers in all fields report that current rates fail to keep up with the pace of actual costs of basic operational and administrative support needed to stay in business, Judith Gethner, executive director of Illinois Partners for Human Service, told a Senate budget committee. Of course, most have little choice but to accept the contracts. The committee is considering a batch of bills, each of which would increase reimbursement rates for one category of providers. They include home health aides, community mental health centers, adult day care providers for the elderly and disabled, assisted living centers and childrens health care centers and alcohol and drug abuse treatment centers, among others. Most of those services are designed to enable people to continue living in their homes rather than being institutionalized in more expensive nursing home settings. Others, like childrens health care centers, provide intermediate-level health care for those who are not yet ready to return home, but do not need to continue staying in more expensive hospitals. Most are also eligible for Medicaid reimbursements, which in Illinois means the federal government picks up half the cost. Some of those providers said they have not had a rate increase in 15 years or more, and that the reimbursements they now receive do not even cover the cost of the services they provide. Meanwhile, they added, as costs have been rising, funding for human services as a share of the states total budget have been shrinking as the state has been forced to increase funding for things like pension obligations, debt service and K-12 education. The solution is to increase the piece of the pie that goes to human services, Gethner said. After years of stagnant reimbursement rates, its imperative to increase these rates and grants so the sector can design and implement services. Cindy Cunningham, president of the Illinois Adult Day Services Association, said the facilities she represents have not seen a rate increase in 10 years. As a result, many have gone out of business. Costs have gone up significantly in that time, she said. During the last four years, weve lost approximately 20 adult day centers. Its not available across Illinois anymore. Were going to lose another one this month. A notice was given to the Department on Aging that they could no longer continue services. Sara Howe, CEO of the Illinois Association for Behavioral Health, whose members provide services to treat addiction and other mental health issues, said Illinois has seen a dramatic increase in the need for those services in recent years, and the states low reimbursement rates have made it difficult to recruit providers. In Illinois, 85 of our 102 counties have been designated as health professional shortage areas for mental health services, she said. Between 2017 and 2018, our shortage of behavioral health care professionals increased by over 200 percent. Our hospitalization rates for adults with serious mental illness are 1.5 times higher than the national average. We are also the fifth worst state in the nation for binge drinking for adults, with higher areas in rural and suburban areas for excessive drinking. The bills pending in the budget committee would only authorize higher reimbursement rates for various services. Actual funding to pay those rates would have to be included in the final budget bills that lawmakers are expected to pass at the end of the month. Although Democratic Gov. J.B. Pritzker has proposed increased funding for some social services, many of the bills in the Senate seek increases above and beyond the governors request. Few of the people who spoke on behalf of those bills were able to provide reliable estimates of how much they would cost, something that made state Sen. Dale Righter, the Republican spokesman on the committee, grow impatient. Counting today (Wednesday), there are 16 session days left. Its time to start adding numbers up, said Righter, of Mattoon. Lawmakers are scheduled to adjourn the session May 31. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 National Nurses Week marks the birthday of nursing pioneer Florence Nightingale, HSHS St. Marys Hospital would like to take the opportunity to thank and recognize our nurses who serve our patients each day with respect, care, competence and joy. Nursing professionals are a valuable and instrumental part of our hospital. We appreciate our nurses for the excellent care they provide during each shift they work, 365 days a year. They are the heartbeat of hospitals. They are the women and men at the bedside caring for the well-being of not only their patients, and the patients families as well. At St. Marys, the commitment to nursing is as strong as the hospitals roots in the community. Founded in 1878 by the Hospital Sisters of St. Francis, St. Marys Hospital continues to provide outstanding care to every patient and this tradition of nursing care in the Decatur area is something to admire. National Nurses Week was developed to raise awareness of the value of nursing as a profession and to help educate the community about the vital role nurses play in the health of the community. To help fulfill that purpose, please join us by thanking the wonderful nursing professionals who have positively impacted your life. Allison Paul, DNP, RN, NEA-BC, chief nursing officer HSHS Central Illinois Division Love 1 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 1 The information below has been supplied by dairy marketers and other industry organizations. It has not been edited, verified or endorsed by Hoards Dairyman. Each spring, Easter Seals Wisconsin kicks off their annual campaign giving season. Since 1926, Easter Seals Wisconsin has provided services that help children and adults with disabilities gain greater independence. The name Easter Seals derived from one of its most popular national fundraisers that began in 1934 colorful adhesive seals the size of postage stamps which were sold around the Easter holiday. These were placed on mailed envelopes to demonstrate ones support of the organizations mission. Throughout the years, the organization has expanded inclusivity of its programs and services. Originally serving those with physical disabilities, Easter Seals Wisconsin now offers therapeutic recreation at Camp Wawbeek and year-round respite care for adults and children with severe cognitive, physical, or behavioral disabilities; a nationally recognized FARM Program (Farm Assessment and Rehabilitation Methods) that helps farmers return to farming after a disabling illness or injury; vocational rehabilitation through the Self- Employment Services program; and weekend camp retreats for veterans and their families, offered at no charge. Easter Seals Wisconsins funding sources rely heavily on donations, event fundraisers, government and private foundation grants, and fee-for-service initiatives. To make a direct donation, please visit www.giving.eastersealswisconsin.com or call 800.422.2324. Your support is vital to the sustainability of the agencys programs and services. About Easter Seals Wisconsin: For over 90 years, Easter Seals Wisconsin www.EasterSealsWisconsin.com has provided services that help children and adults with disabilities gain greater independence. Easter Seals primary services vocation rehabilitation, respite services, camping and recreation, information and referral, and public education benefit close to 10,000 individuals with disabilities and their families each year throughout Wisconsin. The definitive horseshoe book is now available at Barnes and Noble, Abe's Old Hat, Books On The Square and, of course, Amazon. It was fitting, really, that I was handed an advance copy of Springfields Celebrated Horseshoe Sandwich in a McDonalds parking lot. They dont serve horseshoes at the Golden Arches, of course, but comparisons with artery-clogging burgers are inevitable, as demonstrated in a 2010 Wall Street Journal article that revealed a deep-fried version packed five Big Macs of calories into a single serving, with a standard-variety horseshoe providing the equivalent of nine jelly donuts. Quoted in the Journal article as well as a 2012 Illinois Times story on horseshoes, Tony Leone, who coauthored the recently released 200-page tome, gave me a copy when we chanced across each other whilst in pursuit of Egg McMuffins, or the like, horseshoes not being particularly suitable as takeout fare.It is a substantial read, with a staggering level of detail. Careful attention is paid to the evolution of the Clydesdale, an impossibly huge horseshoe that typically comes with assurances that if you eat it all within an hour or so, its free, plus you get your picture posted on the wall. If youre wondering who won what categories in horseshoe cookoffs sponsored by the Springfield Park Foundation when Clinton was president, look no further in 1995, it was Gumbo YaYas in the presentation and trailblazing divisions for shaved ribeye on French bread with wedges of baby new potatoes, Cajun etouffee and two kinds of cheese sauce. Baurs, a restaurant near the Capitol favored by politicos, won best horseshoe that year for a Philly cheesesteak version of the sandwich that made Springfield famous. Both establishments closed long ago.There is also a section on the Obama shoe, hatched on the coattails of the 2008 presidential election, with details on ingredients used by three different restaurants that ranged from hot dogs to ahi tuna to hamburger, plus chili, pineapple, brown gravy, baby greens, fried eggs, pickle relish, celery seed and, of course, cheese sauce. I cant say that I miss horseshoes, the former president told the General Assembly during a 2016 visit.There are recipes, of course, but they wisely are kept to a minimum in favor of the sandwichs history and an exhaustive listing of restaurants, past and present, that have served horseshoes. It is as much a tour through Springfields culinary heritage as an exploration of horseshoes. Establishments mentioned range from DArcys and other usual suspects to lesser-known operations such as the Horseshoe Hut, a food truck active from 2014 until 2016 that made a traditional sit-down pigout portable. More than 70 defunct purveyors of horseshoes are listed, along with scores of out-of-town joints as far away as Maryland and Florida where horseshoes are served.Who can digest all of this? Apparently, lots of us. Leone says hes encouraged by early shipments. Carolyn Harmon, his coauthor who came up with the idea, says it caught the imagination of Arcadia Press, a South Carolina publisher that specializes in books about regional food phenomena, including Nashville food trucks, Atlanta beers and dinners in Connecticut. She sent her proposal via Facebook.Ive always liked potatoes and cheese, says Harmon, a retired District 186 teacher. Ive been interested in horseshoes for a long time.She does not look it, despite admitting to eating one horseshoe a week or thereabouts. She confesses to some fatigue during the year it took to research and write the book. I took pictures of a lot of horseshoes, she says. They all kind of start looking alike, in a way. The publisher featured a south-of-the-border horseshoe on the cover, with bold red and green colors that look more inviting than yellow or beige.Locals, she says, were surprised to learn that no one had written a book devoted to horseshoes. Nobodys put it all together, Harmon says. It was really fun writing it. The Chicago Police Department reported last week that the number of people murdered in the city fell 10% during the first four months of 2019 compared to last year during the same period. While thats good news and part of a two-year downward trend, lost in much of the coverage was a worrisome murder spike in the month of April. The Chicago Sun-Times counted 62 Chicago homicides in April, up from 37 in April of last year and 48 in April of 2017. Its too early to tell whether this is an aberration or a trend. Mayor-elect Lori Lightfoot has been busily meeting with law enforcement officials over the past several days in an attempt to develop a plan before she takes office on May 20 and before summer starts, when street violence tends to increase as the weather warms. Gov. J.B. Pritzker spent over a year on the campaign trail talking about his strong belief that violence is a public health issue. He also touted his support for violence interruption programs, which do things like mediate conflicts between rival individuals and groups and try to prevent retaliations from spiraling out of control.After then-Gov. Bruce Rauner blamed the citys crime problem on the lack of jobs and even illegal immigrants, Pritzker countered during a debate last October by laying at least some of the blame at Rauners feet.Gun violence across the state of Illinois has gone up in the very same period that Gov. Rauner refused to compromise on a budget, Pritzker said during the debate. So many of the violence interruption services, human services that people have as their last vestige of connection with civilization, have gone away.Indeed, the General Assembly had appropriated $4.7 million for violence interruption programs in Fiscal Year 2015, Rauners first year in office. But Rauner stopped spending that money and then nothing was appropriated for the following fiscal year.Shootings spiked almost immediately.In all of 2014, before Rauner took office, 415 people were murdered in Chicago. Rauner, who didnt recognize the connection between violence and public health, was inaugurated in January of 2015 and the number of murders rose to 468. The city saw another huge increase in violence in 2016, with murders soaring to 750.But violence prevention funding was mostly restored after taxes were raised over Rauners July 2017 veto. The murder rate began to decline, dropping to 650.Not all of this trend can be attributed to violence interruption services, of course. But the one Chicago community which managed to secure non-state violence interruption funding in 2015 was the only one spared from that years bloody surge in killings.On his first full day in office this past January, Pritzker told reporters he wanted to expand violence interruption programs.Those programs have been decimated across the state. And so we should be focusing on interrupting violence as much as possible, the governor said.And as he approached his first 100 days in office, Pritzker told ABC 7s Craig Wall: The fact is violence interruption programs addressing the issues that prevent violence before it occurs, thats the most effective thing that we can do.Pritzker also touted an increase in anti-violence funding during his February budget address. This budget adds funds for community-based violence interruption, he told lawmakers.The governor never actually said how much he was proposing to add to the program, but it turns out his requested increase is a mere $2 million. Every little bit helps, obviously, and nobody is complaining yet, but the money doesnt appear to match the governors soaring rhetoric.Pritzker is right that these programs work, and Chicago isnt the only Illinois city that has benefitted from them over the years. Somehow, we need to find a way to do more. 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 The previous day, Iranian officials teased the announcement of diminished commitments to the nuclear deal, formally known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action. The details of that scaling-back were to be announced publicly after being communicated in letters to each of the five other nations that remained a party to the agreement after the US pulled out. The United Kingdom, Germany, and France have been struggling to uphold mutual commitments to the JCPOA without undermining their close alliances with the US, while Russia and China have generally defended Irans position more vigorously while echoing talking points that hold the US primarily responsible for ongoing escalations. These contrasting relationships with the JCPOA were clearly on display throughout Wednesday as representatives of each nation responded to the latest announcements from Tehran and Washington. For its part, the Islamic Republic maintained its previously-expressed promise to avoid withdrawing from the nuclear deal or directly violating its provisions for now. The International Atomic Energy Agency has repeatedly affirmed Irans compliance with the core provisions of the agreement, but in pulling out of it the Trump administration emphasized perceived violations of the spirit of the JCPOA, pointing for instance to the persistent development and testing of ballistic missiles that are capable of being used to carry nuclear warheads. While this activity is not addressed by the agreement itself, a corresponding United Nations Security Council resolution calls upon the Islamic Republic to avoid all work on such weapons. The Trump administration also expressed more skepticism about Irans commitments under the JCPOA, in light of allegations that the regime had done more work in service of nuclear weapons ambitions than had ever been exposed. Wednesdays announcement of explicitly diminished commitments may play into that skepticism and amplify the significance of Washingtons warnings about the spirit of the deal. This was arguably the implication of some of the responses to that announcement from the remaining Western signatories. Although they remain tentatively committed to preserving the agreement and helping Iran to see economic benefits from it in spite of American non-participation, that commitment may now come with a specific expiration date. This is because Irans announcement sets the stage for Iran to cancel the agreement altogether if the government is not satisfied with European actions during the ensuing 60 days. In the meantime, Iran will stop exporting its low-enriched uranium and its heavy water, a byproduct of plutonium reactions. Both of these stockpiles are limited under the terms of the JCPOA, and such exportation served as a means for Iran to continue producing the relevant materials without substantially exceeding those domestic limits. The end of that exportation constitutes a threat of imminent violation, although surprisingly, it is also in line with the strategy the US was pursuing in the run-up to the one-year anniversary. The White House already effectively ended Irans export of enriched uranium last week by ending the sanctions waivers that made certain exchanges both lawful and feasible. But the intention behind this action was evidently to compel the Iranians into producing only enough of the substance to meet their own domestic needs while remaining within the defined limits. Consequently, Irans announcement could set the stage for either violation of the JCPOA or greater compliance with American demands, depending on which actions the major players take in the coming weeks. Speaking to Fox News on Wednesday, former CIA station chief Daniel Hoffman referred to Irans gambit as nuclear blackmail, while Secretary of State Mike Pompeo told reporters that it was clear the regime was trying to scare the nuclear negotiating powers into taking hasty action to prevent Irans withdrawal and resumption of large-scale nuclear enrichment. Indeed, the head of Irans atomic energy authority reiterated a longstanding promise that if the country decided to take this action, it could reach 20 percent enrichment of uranium within four days. According to experts, this would cut the breakout time in half for enrichment to weapons-grade. But Pompeo also expressed doubt about whether Tehran would actually follow through on any such threat. Accordingly, the White House professes to be maintaining a wait-and-see approach to the issue, although it is already moving steadily toward the implementation of a maximum pressure strategy. This was evident last month when the administration announced it would be blacklisting the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps as a foreign terrorist organization and withholding all waivers for importers of Iranian oil. And it was evident once against on Wednesday, when Trump marked the anniversary of JCPOA withdrawal by imposing sanctions on some of Irans leading non-oil exports. As reported by Reuters, the US presidents executive order prohibits partners of the US financial system from purchasing Iranian iron, steel, aluminum, and copper. Collectively, these metals account for approximately 10 percent of Irans export economy, and their targeting stands to amplify an already serious economic crisis. The countrys national currency, the rial, is hovering around seven-month lows, and has been generally declining since even before the re-imposition of sanctions that were suspended under the JCPOA. Trumps executive order provides importers of Iranian metals with a 90-day grace period before they are penalized for such purchases. But the White House also pointed out that any additional orders that were placed after the announcement would be considered a violation. In this sense, the pressure being exerted on partner nations by the US is arguably stronger than that being exerted by Iran through its threats of future expansions of nuclear enrichment. Nevertheless, Iran continues in its efforts to downplay the effectiveness of US sanctions and the readiness of mutual partners to comply fully with new sanctions as they come into effect. Speaking to a Russian news agency on Tuesday, Iranian Foreign Minister Javad Zarif said that Tehran and the European Union were on the brink of agreement concerning the sale of Iranian oil. But Zarif cited no specific details to justify that claim, which appears to be contradicted by other public comments by Iranian and European officials alike. While US sanctions remain in place, any such oil sales would no doubt involve the operation of a sanctions-busting trade mechanism that was set up specifically in response to the US withdrawal from the JCPOA. But this Instrument in Support of Trade Exchanges, or Instex, has yet to become active, and Tehran has long complained about supposed European inaction and unwillingness to defy the will of the United States. The US in turn has exerted modest political pressure on its European partners over Instex, noting for instance that the mechanism was unlikely to serve its purpose while still complying with the money-laundering controls imposed on all global markets by the French-headquartered Financial Action Task Force. This particular skepticism stems in large part from the Iranian regimes refusal to come into compliance with the FATF standards. A deadline for such compliance was established with the implementation of the JCPOA, but was later extended to June of this year, after the Iranian government failed to pass relevant legislation. Iranian markets will come under greater scrutiny from FATF, as well as experiencing the aggregate effects of US sanctions, if such legislation is not adopted in the next month. And according to Reuters, the regime has made little movement toward that goal. But regardless of the presence or absence of FATF compliance legislation, the US government can be expected to continue casting doubt upon Europes ability to simultaneously comply with JCPOA-related commitments and commitments concerning the isolation and punishment of governments and entities that sponsor global terrorism. I question how thats even remotely possible with a country like Iran where the IRGC is so endemic within the economy but also hidden in many different respects, said Sigal Mandelker, the US Treasurys undersecretary for terrorism and financial intelligence. As the Associated Press reported on Wednesday, British Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt acknowledged that the US and the United Kingdom have virtually identical goals for dealing with the threat posed by the Islamic Republic, although they still differ over the means to achieving those goals. The same report detailed the rising levels of difficulty that the UK, France, and Germany are facing as they work to make up for the effects of the US pulling out of the JCPOA and pursuing maximum pressure on the regime. However, those efforts may be mooted in the near future if Iran does follow through on its threat to resume higher-level uranium enrichment and effectively cancel the 2015 nuclear agreement. Far from taking hasty action to prevent that outcome, the three European powers appear to be readying themselves for an assertive response, possibly one that brings them into line with the Trump administrations maximum pressure strategy. On Tuesday, ahead of Irans formal announcement of diminished commitment, sources close to French President Emmanuel Macron said that Europeans would be obliged to re-impose sanctions in the event that any action undertaken by Iran amounts to reneging on its commitments under the JCPOA. For the time being, the EU continues to urge the Islamic Republic against such action, but Tehran has seemingly backed away from earlier claims that it would only withdraw if the deal collapsed on its own. Meanwhile, the Trump administration continues to insist that all international partners avoid economic exchanges with the Iranian regime until it has made a more comprehensive commitment to changing its behavior, as it relates to nuclear ambitions, missile development, regional interventionism, and the support of international terror groups. As Energy Secretary Rick Perry put it in an interview with CNBC, The smart message for our friends and allies around the world is: Dont do business with this people until they understand that there is a way that you conduct yourself in the global community. On Sunday, White House National Security Advisor John Bolton announced that those military resources were responding to credible intelligence regarding Iranian plans for attacks on American assets and allies both on land and at sea. The aircraft carrier, the USS Abraham Lincoln, was already scheduled to arrive in the region as part of a dynamic deployment, but the US Navys Central Command confirmed that that schedule had been accelerated in response to the apparent threat. It is currently en route. Boltons reference to the relevant intelligence was generally vague, and little concrete detail was provided by Shanahan or Dunford when speaking to a Senate Appropriations defense subcommittee. But both men did attempt to explain the context surrounding their acquisition of that intelligence. We received indications of this very, very credible intelligence on Friday afternoon, Shanahan said, adding, We went to work understanding the sources and to get the teams turning on What does it mean? and how might we respond. Dunford then noted that the Defense Department immediately went to work on making sure that the US was postured to respond to the threat, although the announcement of that response only emerged two days later. As well as reporting upon this testimony, ABC News noted on Wednesday that it had learned that the intelligence including indications that Iran or its proxies were planning attacks against US forces in Iraq, Syria, and at sea. The threat and subsequent response naturally come at a time when tensions between Iran and the US are already escalating. On Monday, in immediate response to Boltons announcement, The Atlantic published an article assessing some of the ways in which Iran might attempt to do harm to American personnel, interests, or allies if the tensions escalated to the point of actual conflict. Both governments have provided public assurances that they are not interested in war, and this was a prominent aspect of Boltons statement. But Tehran has also directed militaristic rhetoric against its adversaries, which might serve as a pretext for action by any of the various proxies the Islamic Republic controls and supports. This was arguably the implication of the statement that Foreign Minister Javad Zarif made via Twitter on Tuesday, in response to the news of the Lincolns deployment. If US and clients dont feel safe, its because theyre despised by the people of the region, he declared, thereby distancing the Iranian regime from whatever intelligence underlay the deployment. But historically, many of the groups that have taken up arms against the US, including Hezbollah, Iraqi insurgents, and Syrian loyalist forces, have relied heavily on Iranian supports in order to do so. This situation was affirmed by Ali Vaez, an expert on Iran at the Crisis Group, who was quoted in The Atlantics risk assessment article. The Iranians have plenty of experience targeting U.S. forces in the region indirectly through the use of their Shia militia allies, he said. And according to Vaez, the current presence of 2,000 US service members in Syria, 5,000 in Iraq, and 14,000 in Afghanistan means the US is very much exposed to further attacks along these lines. It is not clear, however, to what extent Tehran would risk even an indirect attack in the presence of active deterrence by the US and by Irans regional adversaries. Meanwhile, it is even more doubtful that the regime would risk direct military confrontation, despite the fact that officials have repeatedly threatened to close the Strait of Hormuz in response to US-led efforts to constrain the countrys oil exports. The website Statista responded to emerging concerns about the potential for conflict on Tuesday by assessing the strength of the Iranian military. It noted that although an estimated 900,000 active-duty personnel present a significant threat, that threat is greatly diminished by the fact that Irans military equipment is outmoded and largely dates back to the time of the Shah, before the 1979 Iranian Revolution. Furthermore, because the current regime has struggled to obtain components that are necessary for the maintenance of that equipment, many of Irans military vehicles have been left inoperable. On the other hand, this is not to say that Tehran has been completely unsuccessful in expanding upon the direct threat that it poses to adversaries. The current leading source of that threat is the regimes missile program, which was highlighted in an article that originally appeared at the National Interest late last year, but was reposted on Monday in the wake of Boltons announcement. The report noted that Iran had actually used some of its more advanced missiles in attacks upon enemy groups in Syria last September and in Iraq last October. But in spite of ongoing advancements, the range of Irans ballistic missiles reportedly remains limited to approximately 1,200 miles. Additional, that missile program has become a major focus of the Trump administrations efforts to rein in Iran through maximum pressure via economic sanctions and diplomatic intervention. Exactly one year ago Wednesday, President Donald Trump withdrew the US from the 2015 Iran nuclear deal, citing ballistic missile production and testing as one of the leading means by which the clerical regime had violated the spirit of the agreement. Embarras volunteer conservation day set CHARLESTON The Embarras Volunteer Stewards will hold a Conservation Day at 9 a.m. Saturday for the annual wildflower and warbler walk at Rocky Branch Nature Preserve. Meet at the cafe at the top of the hill in Clarksville for car pooling. All are welcome, and no prior experience is necessary. Sturdy footwear and gloves are recommended. Tools are provided. Visit www.embarrasstewards.org for more information. Updates are posted on the group's website. To receive email notifications, contact thorsenhutton@gmail.com. Mattoon Class of 1958 to meet for breakfast MATTOON -- The Mattoon High School class of 1958 will meet for breakfast at 9 a.m. Saturday at Denny's. For information call 217-856-3554. Alpha Upsilon to hold business meeting MATTOON -- The Alpha Upsilon Chapter of Epsilon Sigma Alpha business meeting will be held at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday at the Knights of Columbus in Mattoon. Please bring three dozen cookies for Law Enforcement week. RSVP to Suzi Coffman at 217-246-1078 Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 CHARLESTON -- There are still myths and misconceptions about people who are LGBTQ, but it "speaks well" of the community that they have support and that efforts are recognized, Donna Hudson said. Hudson's work was motivated by her own son and has led to her not only being involved in that support but also helping initiate it. There's been recent progress fighting discrimination against sexual and gender diversity, but the need continues, she said. "There are some fears," Hudson said. "There is a lot of movement forward but there is still a danger." Hudson was part of the effort to start the local PFLAG support group, serves on the advisory board of Eastern Illinois University's Center for Gender and Sexual Diversity and more. It all led to her being named as one of this year's recipients of the Jefferson Awards for Public Service. Jeannie Ludlow, professor of Women's, Gender and Sexuality studies at EIU, was one of those who nominated Hudson. Ludlow called her a "steadfast activist" for those targeted by "bullying or unfairness of any kind." "She speaks up against any form of oppression or bias when she witnesses it," Ludlow said. "She has a way of explaining why a behavior is problematic that is both generous in spirit and clearly understood." Hudson started on the board of the EIU center in 2012 and said she soon heard from "people like me," parents of kids who are LGBTQ who wanted to provide them with a support system. PFLAG is the largest advocacy organization in the country and the Charleston chapter Hudson helped found is the only one in the area. She said it draws people from the surrounding area and hosts events and discussions to help provide education and advocacy. She also said the chapter has a "strong connection" with the EIU and Charleston High School Pride groups. "We try to achieve a high degree of visibility," she said. "It's our goal to make it safe for LGBTQ people to be themselves." The chapter gives financial help for people who are "disenfranchised" from their families after coming out and it's now working on a scholarship for CHS students to acknowledge they "walked the path," Hudson also said. She said it also provided training for "safe zones" at CHS, classrooms where students know they can go if they need protection or to talk to someone. The EIU center offers support and programs for students who face additional obstacles because of their gender or sexual orientation, in addition to the regular demands of college, Hudson said. "You have that extra difficulty to deal with," she said. "There are going to be people opposed to you just because of who you are." Hudson is a counselor with the Sexual Assault Counseling and Information Service and said she regularly works with clients who are victims of sexual orientation harassment. SACIS has been "incredibly supportive" and is "in sync" with her volunteer efforts, she said. As for receiving the Jefferson Award, Hudson said she's honored but more appreciative of the recognition for the area of work than for what she's done. "It speaks well of the community that they're willing to honor someone who works in this area," she said. "I'm much more pleased with that than that I personally received an award." Contact Dave Fopay at (217) 238-6858. Follow him on Twitter: @FopayDave Love 5 Funny 1 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 2 MATTOON -- Donald Eugene White, age 80, of Mattoon, IL peacefully passed away at 3:20 PM, Tuesday, May 7, 2019 at his residence. A funeral mass in his honor will be held at 10:00 AM, Friday, May 10, 2019 at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, 320 N 21st Street, Mattoon, IL. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service at the church. Burial will be held at a later date. Mitchell-Jerdan Funeral Home, located at 1200 Wabash, Mattoon, IL is in charge of services. He was born on September 16, 1938, in St. Elmo, IL the son of Guy and Sylvia (Evans) White. He married Swaylien Chen on January 4, 1975; she survives. Also surviving is one brother, Darrell White and wife Billie of Olney, IL; one sister, Janice Lingafelter and husband Rick of Minooka, IL; and sister-in-law, Velma White of Decatur, IL. He is preceded in death by one brother, Ray White. Mr. White started teaching in Mattoon in 1961, followed by teaching post at Lockport, Joliet, England, Japan, Philippines, and Taiwan. He returned to Mattoon in 1973 where he continued teaching until he retired in 1994. He then worked with student teachers at Eastern Illinois University through 1995 and Southeast Missouri State University through 1997. From 1997 through 2005, he taught English as Second Language (ESL) children for Mattoon Schools. He enjoyed playing fast pitch softball, traveling and teaching children throughout his life. He was a proud teacher and touched the lives of many. Memorials in his honor may be made to Immaculate Conception Catholic Church. Please visit www.mitchell-jerdan.com or www.facebook.com/mitchelljerdanfuneralhome to light a virtual candle in his honor or share a memory with the family. Thursday, May 09, 2019 Yvette Says This Time She's Ready To Debate Xochitl, Plus: ABQ Crime Spree Shakes State Senator; Now He Has Questions For Bernco DA There is another candidate seeking the southern GOP congressional nod. He's Las Cruces businessman Chris Mathys who has loaned his campaign over $75,000 but is being shunned by the GOP establishment in favor of Herrell. Still, he knows how to prey on Herrell's weakness, letting this loose in the I like Yvette, but frankly she wasnt strong as our nominee. She wouldnt debate anyone. Yvette, to be candid, she had her shot. Guess what, she didnt make it and a lot of it had to do with just not being accessible and not working hard. I think voters need someone thats going to work hard because if you work hard to get elected, youre going to apply that same work ethic once you are elected. The national GOP thinks they can push Herrell to victory in 2020 but Dems think Torres Small is dodging a bullet because it is rare for a defeated congressional candidate in NM to make a comeback. Meanwhile, the northern congressional race is kind of slow. How slow? Well, the news is that an unknown candidate who was in the race for the Democratic congressional nomination for several weeks, Mark McDonald of Raton, is getting out of the race CRIME SPREE GETS SENATOR The ABQ crime crisis is impacting one state lawmaker personally. Take a look at this When are we going to see an improvement in public safety in this city? (I was) almost the victim of a potentially life threatening road rage incident Tuesday afternoon. A driver pulled a gun (after almost hitting me as he was driving way over the speed limit on Academy Blvd) he then changed lanes to try and pull next to me. I had to duck into a residential area to get away. Two years ago the legislature appropriated millions to the District Attorney for a safer ABQ. I helped fight for that money in the Senate. When are we going to see the results? Gun crime is on the rise. UNM student killed. Postal worker killed. Time to demand results. This three days before my wedding. This week Ive gotten three calls from constituents feeling that ABQ is becoming a more dangerous city. I know the feeling. Candelaria, who said he reported the incident to APD, is a new member of the important Senate Finance Committee. In 2018 that committee and the legislature approved a big budget increase for the office of BernCo DA Raul Torrez to improve crime fighting efforts. As the crime wave continues, Candelaria says he intends on grilling Torrez on how that money is being employed and why the city seems to be getting more dangerous, not less. Tillery and Candelaria As for The wedding is Saturday at Santa Fe's Eldorado Hotel and will be quite the social event with Governor Lujan Grisham officiating. Candelaria won't be putting more heat on ABQ officials over the crime wave right away. Following the wedding he says the newlyweds will be honeymooning in the This is the home of New Mexico politics. Interested in reaching New Mexico's most informed audience? Advertise here. ( c)NM POLITICS WITH JOE MONAHAN 2019 Not that she had much choice, but southern GOP congressional candidate Yvette Herrell is changing her tune about debating Dem Rep. Xochitl Torres Small. Herrell now says that if she is again the GOP nominee next year she will take on Torres Small in a TV debate, something she declined to do in her losing bid last year. But then who says Torres Small will agree to debate her? Well, she likely will, but if the polling shows the incumbent comfortably ahead there might be very few Yvette vs. Xochitl TV nights.There is another candidate seeking the southern GOP congressional nod. He's Las Cruces businessman Chris Mathys who has loaned his campaign over $75,000 but is being shunned by the GOP establishment in favor of Herrell. Still, he knows how to prey on Herrell's weakness, letting this loose in the Hobbs newspaper The national GOP thinks they can push Herrell to victory in 2020 but Dems think Torres Small is dodging a bullet because it is rare for a defeated congressional candidate in NM to make a comeback.Meanwhile, the northern congressional race is kind of slow. How slow? Well, the news is that an unknown candidate who was in the race for the Democratic congressional nomination for several weeks, Mark McDonald of Raton, is getting out of the race and endorsing Santa Fe County District Attorney Marco Serna who is not yet an official candidate. Serna is expected to toss his hat into the ring by month's end. Yep, that's pretty slow going.The ABQ crime crisis is impacting one state lawmaker personally. Take a look at this Facebook post from ABQ Dem State Senator Jacob Candelaria:Candelaria, who said he reported the incident to APD, is a new member of the important Senate Finance Committee. In 2018 that committee and the legislature approved a big budget increase for the office of BernCo DA Raul Torrez to improve crime fighting efforts. As the crime wave continues, Candelaria says he intends on grilling Torrez on how that money is being employed and why the city seems to be getting more dangerous, not less.As for his wedding , Candelaria, 32, is marrying Kory Tillery , 27, the son of Glen Tillery, president of Tillery Chevrolet in Moriarty. Kory Tillery is graduating from the UNM School of Medicine Friday.The wedding is Saturday at Santa Fe's Eldorado Hotel and will be quite the social event with Governor Lujan Grisham officiating.Candelaria won't be putting more heat on ABQ officials over the crime wave right away. Following the wedding he says the newlyweds will be honeymooning in the British Virgin Islands for two weeks.This is the home of New Mexico politics. E-mail your news and comments. (jmonahan@ix.netcom.com) Links HOME E-MAIL ME About Joe Google News Real Clear Politics Huffington Post Drudge Report The Politico NM TV stations Gov. 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Nebraska Farm Bureau President Steve Nelson said the effects of tariffs, combined with the years-long downturn in agriculture and the damage done to Nebraska farms and ranches from blizzards and flooding in March, "certainly put us in a position where a win on trade could be extremely important." A separate report released Thursday by the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City shows that agricultural credit conditions continue to deteriorate in the seven states served by the bank. In fact, some of the worst conditions were in Nebraska, which had the second-biggest year-over-year drop in farm income, the largest drop in capital spending, the biggest drop in farmland values and the largest percentage of ag producers struggling to produce enough cash flow to service their debt. Rempe said that if trade disputes are not resolved soon between the U.S. and China, Mexico and other countries, "It will continue to put new pressure on our ag community." Reach the writer at 402-473-2647 or molberding@journalstar.com. On Twitter @LincolnBizBuzz. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 The business news you need Get the latest local business news delivered FREE to your inbox weekly. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. "I don't believe it's right. You're telling them one thing and when they get in there it's another," she said. Halligan says she would quit doing it if Fat Dogs did but has to for now to survive. Another of Wilkinson's attorneys, Sheila Bentzen, asked if, because of stations matching Fat Dogs' lower prices, consumers ultimately were getting a lower price for gasoline. Halligan agreed. But they've also gotten a lot of complaints from people who didn't notice they had accidentally bought more expensive fuel until after filling up, she said. People don't read signs very well, she said. Wilkinson testified, too, saying customers have to physically push the price to make the pump work, plus they've added signs and the number of pumps with the lowest priced fuel. Despite acknowledging he had gotten 48 complaints forwarded to him from the Nebraska Attorney General's office, he seemed to brush them off. "I get way more thank-you's than complaints," he said. Wilkinson said he just tries to offer a lot of different products and let the consumer decide what they want. The University of Nebraska's economic impact has grown since 2015 from $3.9 billion to $4.5 billion last year, according to a recent study commissioned by the university. Tripp Umbach, the Pittsburgh-based firm that conducted both economic impact studies, also found NU pumped an estimated $1.2 billion into the economies of Lincoln and the surrounding areas last year. The study combined and analyzed capital and operational spending by NU, jobs, payroll, benefits and taxes, as well as the indirect spending created from the direct spending of the university. It also uses a multiplier effect to measure the secondary impacts of NU's spending. For this study, Tripp Umbach used a multiplier effect between 1.8 and 2.0, meaning that for every 10 people employed by NU, there are at least eight people working in other industries that support the university, adding its figures represented a conservative analysis. NU supports 38,664 jobs one in 26 jobs across the state and contributes $154 million total in state and local taxes through its four campuses, the Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture and the system administration. WILBER -- Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts' office won't have to turn over any communications it may have had with state prosecutors over their decision to seek the death penalty against Aubrey Trail, following a judge's ruling Wednesday. Defense attorney Ben Murray said he was just trying to determine whether the decision was based on the circumstances of the case "and not on some improper influence." He said he didn't know if it happened in this instance, but said it has happened before, pointing to a 2013 letter then-Gov. Dave Heineman sent to the Douglas County Attorney regarding seeking the death penalty against Nikko Jenkins, who killed four people in Omaha. "We're not just taking a shot in the dark here," Murray told Saline County District Judge Vicky L. Johnson. Assistant Attorney General Mike Guinan argued against the motion, calling it "basically a fishing expedition," based only on Ricketts spending personal money to put the question of whether the state should have the death penalty before voters after state lawmakers repealed it in 2016. Nebraskans ultimately voted to keep capital punishment on the books. The inmate shot and wounded at the start of the Mother's Day riot at the Tecumseh prison in 2015 has sued the corrections officer who shot him, the employee who authorized her to pull the trigger, the warden and prison director. Rashad Washington's attorney, Vince Powers, called it unnecessary and excessive use of force in the complaint filed Tuesday in Lancaster County District Court. On May 10, 2015, an officer using a rifle or mini-rifle shot Washington in his lower left leg, leaving him with injuries to his thigh, ankle and foot and resulting in hospitalization and the need for surgery, the attorney said. Powers said another prison employee had authorized the use of deadly force that day after two other inmates attacked a corporal in the prison yard at the Tecumseh State Correctional Institution. The brief melee and the shot that came in response from prison staff sparked a tinderbox. By the next morning, a wall would be burned down, offices trashed, an entire housing unit taken out of commission, and two inmates -- Shon Collins and Donald Peacock -- dead at the hands of fellow inmates. In the budget he submitted to Congress, President Donald Trump proposed eliminating all operating expenses for long-distance Amtrak passenger trains. He said this will force the states to come up with the funding for the trains. Alternatively, he proposes to substitute intercity bus service for the passenger trains. But intercity buses just don't equate with the current Amtrak trains. On trains, you have meal service in a dining car, sleeping space for overnight trips and the ability to get up and walk around. Riding a bus, the only food will be what you get can get from vending machines at bus stations along the way. If you can sleep, it will be sitting up rather than lying down. Showers are available on long-distance trains but not buses. You might be able to walk a bit down the aisle of a bus but not very far. Nebraska is currently served by the California Zephyr trains, one each direction each 24 hours. Stops are made in Omaha, Lincoln, Hastings, Holdrege and McCook. Amtrak reports ridership has been increasing each year on the Zephyrs, both in Nebraska and overall. Other long-distance trains have seen ridership increases also. RACINE The Moving Wall will be in Racine May 16-20 at Pritchard Park, 2800 Ohio St. (Ohio Street and Durand Avenue). The Moving Wall is a half-scale replica of the Vietnam Memorial in Washington, D.C., that travels around the country to give veterans who are unable to visit the Memorial the opportunity to experience it in their hometown. Vietnam Veterans Chapter 767 of Racine hosted the wall in 2005 and 2015. Normally, it is a 10-year wait to host the wall again, but the custodians of the wall were so impressed with the presentation and response in Racine, that they requested that the chapter host it again for their 35th anniversary in 2019. The wall will be available for viewing starting at noon May 16 and will be available 24 hours a day. The opening ceremony will take place at 5 p.m. Friday, May 17, and will end with the reading of the 47 names of Racine veterans on the wall. These events have also been planned in conjunction with the event: Friday, May 17 Ride to the Wall departing at 4 p.m. from The Nash, 522 Sixth St.; concert by Belle City Brassworks at Pritchard Park, 4 p.m. Saturday, May 18 Quilts of Honor of Southeast Wisconsin will present handmade quilts to veterans at noon; Mass at the small pavilion, 4:30 p.m. Sunday, May 19 Non-denominational sunrise service at 9 a.m.; Gilmore Fine Arts Choir concert, noon, followed by closing ceremonies at 1 p.m. The Wall will be taken down at 3:30 p.m. Monday, May 20. The event is still in need of volunteers. Call Ellen Myers at 262-638-8705 to sign up. For more information, contact Pat Adams at 262-634-6859. Donations can be sent to: Moving Wall 2019, P.O. Box 081036, Racine WI 53408-1036. Donations are tax-deductible. Love 3 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 RACINE Highlights from Tuesdays meeting of the Racine City Council: Property transfer for St. Paul Baptist St. Paul Missionary Baptist Churchs request to have an adjacent parcel of land transferred to the church was approved. Bishop Lawrence Kirby spoke during the public comment segment about the churchs history and its contributions to the Racine community. We are a nonprofit but much more; we are a church but much more; we are a community, said Kirby. The lot at 1125 Center St. is adjacent to the church at 1120 Grand Ave. It became Racine County property through tax foreclosure and is currently an empty lot. An agenda briefing included information about the lots cost to the city. City staff wrote that the parcels value in 2018 was $8,000 because no structure is on the property. Since taking ownership, the city has expended $310 for mowing, snow removal and ice control. Prior to acquiring the lot, the city paid $10,800 to demolish the house that had been on the property in 2017. The church will reimburse the city only for the $30 transfer fee. @North Beach incentive An incentive for the @North Beach project at 1129 Michigan Blvd. was approved, in which the city would purchase the projects parking garages for $6.5 million using tax increment district funds. The city would lease use of the parking units back to Racine Harborside LLC, owned by developer Royal Capital Group of Milwaukee, for $1 per unit per year. By end the of the life of the TID, the city would deed the parking units back to Racine Harborside. @North Beach incentives include city buying parking units with TID funds RACINE The latest developments in the $60 million @North Beach project include an almost $6.5 million incentive to offset the cost of buildi The 9.5-acre property the site of the former Walker Manufacturing lies between Pugh Marina, 1001 Michigan Blvd., the city water treatment plant at 100 Hubbard St. and the lake. Milwaukee-based Royal Capital Group is buying the city-owned site, currently considered the citys prime development opportunity, for $3.2 million. Two apartment buildings are planned to be constructed: a seven-story building with a two-story parking structure; and a five-story building with one story of parking. Royal Capital envisions developing the rest of the site later. Mason has said phase two is envisioned to be mostly market-rate housing. Reimbursement for Nabors Racine Police Officer Brinnell Nabors will be reimbursed the $22,800 he paid to lawyer Patrick Cafferty, who is also a member of the Police and Fire Commission. In early January, Nabors was found not guilty of felony misconduct and misdemeanor counts of battery and disorderly conduct in an incident involving a Park High School student. In July 2017, the city reached a $400,000 settlement to the alleged victims family; the city paid $225,000, and the rest paid by the citys insurer, Cities and Villages Mutual Insurance Co. The City Council also approved two requests from the City Attorneys Office to represent Racine Police officers named in a federal lawsuits. One lawsuit was filed by Tyran Pinkins alleging he was punched during a diabetic seizure in 2016. The other case was filed by Charles House alleging unlawful search of his property and false imprisonment stemming from a series of incidents in 2017. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 1 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. RACINE Large, multicolored, illuminated Chinese lanterns in the form of creatures and a pagoda will light up the night at the Racine Zoo during the last quarter of this year. On Tuesday afternoon at the zoo, Executive Director Beth Heidorn and others announced plans for the Chinese Lantern Festival at the Racine Zoo, 2131 N. Main St. The event is to run for 80 nights of illumination, spanning Oct. 1-Dec. 31, with 25 different artistic elements. The lantern creations will start at the zoos entrance and be stationed around approximately the south half of the zoo, Heidorn said. The zoo is working with Zigong Lantern Group of Zigong, China, the worlds largest industry group of its kind, and its overseas component, China Lantern International. Zigong has won numerous awards, Heidorn said. The largest of the lanterns, which are illuminated from within, will be the Temple of Heaven, at nearly 40 feet. The longest creation, a dragon, will be about 131 feet long, said Justin Corsa, China Lantern Internationals North American executive director. It will stand 18 feet tall. The lanterns will look like pieces of artwork during the day and will come to life at night for all to see, zoo officials stated. To promote the festival, the Wisconsin Department of Tourism awarded the Racine Zoo a $30,280 grant for marketing. The departments deputy secretary, Anne Sayers, was on hand Tuesday to make that announcement. The money will be used to do digital, print, direct mail, broadcast and outdoor advertising, in both Wisconsin and Illinois, she said. This is a way that were able to infuse into nonprofit organizations and destinations around the state to help grow local tourism, Sayers explained. We expect up to 100,000 visitors and $3.76 million in visitor spending, Sayers said. Partnership with Zigong Meng Liu, China Lantern Internationals executive director for China overseas, said the company will make a $600,000 investment to produce the 25 displays. Heidorn said the zoo will provide the operational and marketing support, and the two partners have a revenue-sharing agreement for the money the festival produces. The zoo will close at its regular time throughout the Lantern Festival, then reopen at night for that separate event with its own admission structure. Admission fees have yet to be determined, Heidorn said. The partnership to do the festival came about after Lantern Group approached the zoo to be the site of one of its festivals, both parties said. Corsa said China Lantern proposed coming to the Racine Zoo partly because the grounds present a beautiful environment for the cultural art. Corsa said the process of making Chinese lanterns started about 2,000 years ago, and each artistic structure is still handmade with silk stretched onto and glued to a steel frame. Each piece of art will be assembled to the point of being about halfway complete, and those pieces will be shipped by sea. A crew of about 30 Chinese workers will come to Racine and begin the final assembly at a large production tent on the zoo grounds, a process expected to take about 45 days, Corsa said. During the exhibit, the zoo will be accepting group tours with discounts. Also, Heidorn said, there are a lot of sponsorship and partnership opportunities, and anyone interested in that should contact the zoo. Journal Times reporters Alyssa Mauk and Christina Lieffring contributed tot his report. Love 19 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 1 Angry 5 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. Authorities said the actions of Kendrick Castillo, Brendan Bialy and Joshua Jones minimized the bloodshed from Tuesday's attack at the school south of Denver that wounded eight students along with killing the 18-year-old Castillo. Former U.S. Sen. Russ Feingold plans to promote global biodiversity by persuading countries to commit to protecting more of their land and water by the year 2030. Feingold, a Democrat, said he will work with the Campaign for Nature, a $1 billion effort to back global conservation efforts, to persuade international leaders to promote conservation and thwart mass extinction. Feingold, who has served as special envoy to the Great Lakes region of Africa which includes Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi and some of the Democratic Republic of Congo will, in his new role, work with African leaders who have an interest in expanding protected areas of land and water. Theres a feeling of urgency, Feingold said, adding that threats to biodiversity can be as troubling as those of climate change. The Campaign for Nature seeks to help communities, indigenous peoples and nations conserve 30% of the planet in its natural state by 2030. In 2020, international groups will meet in China at the Convention on Biological Diversity to set the new targets. Current biodiversity goals are to protect 17% of each countrys terrestrial area and 10% of each countrys ocean waters. Feingold said the campaign hopes more countries will sign onto the 30% target. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Being a corrections officer is not for everybody. Its one of those jobs that qualified applicants must be lured to specifically, with better pay so as to lure such applicants away from jobs that dont involve being literally locked in with people who have been sentenced to prison. So while we understand Gov. Tony Evers motivation in giving Department of Corrections employees a temporary raise, we share Assembly Speaker Robin Vos concerns about how the raises are being distributed. Last week, Evers authorized temporary raises of up to $5 an hour to workers at six state prisons, none of which are in Racine County. The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reported that guards and sergeants at Columbia, Dodge, Green Bay, Taycheedah and Waupun correctional institutions, as well as at the Lincoln Hills youth prison, will receive the additional pay. While providing raises for our correctional officers is the right thing to do, cherry picking which facilities receive the benefits is fundamentally unfair and creates unnecessary animosity in a system that already needs reform, said Vos, R-Rochester. There are three corrections facilities in my district and every one of the hardworking officers deserves to be compensated for the incredibly important work that they do. We believe the raises can, and should, vary according to merit and the hazardousness of the position. But our elected officials are right to be discussing raises for such work: People who can find a less hazardous job than corrections officer are probably going to do that, so the state is going to have to pay better, especially in a time of record-low unemployment. Overtime hours, turnover and vacancy rates in the states prison system rose dramatically over the past five fiscal years, according to a report by state auditors late last month. DOC Secretary-designate Kevin Carr said in a letter to auditors that unless the agency can get control of vacancies things probably wont change. Until the vacancy rates of our institutions are decreased, overtime will continue to be the reality for many employees, he said. The total number of paid overtime hours within DOC institutions grew 50.7% from fiscal year 2013-14 to fiscal year 2017-18, auditors found. Of the $397.5 million the state spent on DOC wages in fiscal year 2017-18, nearly $53 million, or 13%, went to cover overtime hours worked mostly by security personnel. Auditors found the turnover rate for guards grew from just under 18% in 2013-14 to 26% in 2017-18. The vacancy rate for security personnel, including guards, more than doubled over the five fiscal years, from 6.7% to 14%. As of June 2018, the end of the 2017-18 fiscal year, four prisons had vacancy rates of 20% or higher. Three of those four were maximum-security institutions. The report notes that perceptions that prison jobs arent safe and low pay are likely fueling the turnovers and vacancies. Evers budget calls for spending an additional $23.8 million to implement a pay progression system for guards, sergeants and psychiatrists within DOC and the state Department of Health Services. Raising the starting wage for Wisconsin guards to $17.90, the median starting wage for guards in surrounding states, would cost about $30 million, the report indicates. But when youre spending $53 million annually on overtime, $30 million is a bargain. DOC is attempting to retain workers through training academies at six institutions where guard applicants work alongside guards and job fairs at its prisons, auditors noted. Sen. Robert Cowles, R-Green Bay, co-chairman of the audit committee, said in a statement that DOC needs better data to determine the effectiveness of its worker retention programs. The goal is still to reduce staffing vacancies, turnover and instances of excessive overtime, Cowles said. Sen. Cowles has a good point. When, for example, $18 an hour turns into $27 for each hour of overtime, raising the starting pay for guards to $20 per hour starts to look better and better to prospective employees, and to taxpayers. Gov. Evers should give all DOC guards and sergeants a raise, especially since those raises appear to have the backing of Speaker Vos. Then, he and the Legislature should work together to find ways to retain a sufficient number of employees to cut back on all the overtime. Love 0 Funny 1 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 - DOST-PNRI said that 8 out of 10 vinegar brands in the PH are fake - They added that most brands have synthetic acetic acid - There results of the study will be forwarded to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) PAY ATTENTION: Click "See First" under the "Following" tab to see KAMI news on your News Feed The Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Nuclear Research Institute (DOST-PNRI) said that some local vinegar bands are fake. KAMI learned that upon the research, the institute found synthetic acetic acid in the said vinegar brands. In a report by the Manila Bulletin (author Dhel Nazario), the researchers used isotope-based analytical techniques to study more than 360 local brands of vinegar. 8 out of 10 vinegar brands are fake and have synthetic acetic acid, DOST says Source: Facebook Raymond Sucgang of the PNRI Nuclear Analytical Techniques Applications Section said that natural vinegar should have traces of carbon with natural radioactivity. However, this is different from those made of synthetic raw materials. The results of the research will be submitted to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). It could be a new basis for the Vinegar Standards of the Philippines. PAY ATTENTION: Using free basics app to access internet for free? Now you can read KAMI news there too. Use the search option to find us. Read KAMI news while saving your data! In 2018, the Philippine Star (author Rainier Allan Ronda) reported that about 70 percent of the vinegar being sold in the country are fake. The prices of the synthetic blends can be so low that they do not allow any price competition with the available authentic vinegars, Sucgang said. However, the science and technology department did not list the brands containing synthetic acetic acid as of posting. Enjoyed reading our story? Download KAMI's news app on Google Play now and stay up-to-date with major Filipino news! Jodi Sta. Maria speaks with HumanMeter about the upcoming romantic drama "Man and Wife" also starring Gabbi Concepcion. Let us take a closer look into the movie shooting process and some details about the collaboration of the two celebrities on KAMI HumanMeter YouTube channel! Source: KAMI.com.gh - Matteo Guidicelli created headlines when he joined Armed Forces of the Philippines as a reservist - He recently revealed the initial reaction of his parents and his girlfriend, who is Sarah Geronimo when he decided to join the Army - It was during his speech at the closing ceremony of the National Cadet Corps of the Philippines Summer Encampment Training, under the Junior High School Commandants Association of the Philippines (JHSCAP) PAY ATTENTION: Click "See First" under the "Following" tab to see KAMI news on your News Feed Matteo Guidicelli generously revealed his real reason why he joined the Armed Forces of the Philippines as a reservist. Along with it were the reaction of his parents and his sweetheart, who is Sarah Geronimo, to his decision. He disclosed all of this during his speech at the closing ceremony of the National Cadet Corps of the Philippines Summer Encampment Training under the Junior High School Commandants Association of the Philippines (JHSCAP). According to him, his parents and Sarah asked him why he decided to join. "Yung girlfriend ko, yung mga magulang ko sabi nila Bakit ka sasali ng Army? Mag-gi-giyera ka ba?' He recalled. Ngayon they understood na kapag nasa reserve ka or nasa Army ka, hindi naman ibig sabihin mag-gi-giyera ka, marami kang mga pwedeng gawin. Prior to this revelation, he shared his main reason why he joined the Army, and that is because of his love for the Philippines. "I just joined the reserve force just two weeks ago. Daming tao nagsasabi, nagtatanong sakin, Bakit ka mag-re-reserve force, bakit ka mag-a-Army?' Sabi ko, Bakit hindi? Pinoy ako diba? PAY ATTENTION: Using free basics app to access internet for free? Now you can read KAMI news there too. Use the search option to find us. Read KAMI news while saving your data! In a previous report by KAMI, Matteo received a traffic violation ticket via mail from the MMDA which he appreciated more than being upset. Born on March 26, 1990, in Cebu City, Gianmatteo Fernan Guidicelli is a Filipino-Italian model and actor. Enjoyed reading our story? Download KAMI's news app on Google Play now and stay up-to-date with major Filipino news! Jodi Sta. Maria speaks with HumanMeter about the upcoming romantic drama "Man and Wife" also starring Gabbi Concepcion. Let us take a closer look into the movie shooting process and some details about the collaboration of the two celebrities on KAMI HumanMeter YouTube channel! Source: KAMI.com.gh - A clip of Arjo Atayde and Maine Mendoza is now circulating online - The Kapamilya actor was caught on cam kissing Maine on her shoulder - The actor's sweet gesture elicited kilig vibes among their followers PAY ATTENTION: Click "See First" under the "Following" tab to see KAMI news on your News Feed! Arjo Atayde was caught kissing Maine Mendoza's one side of her shoulder during the Kapuso actress' birthday celebration. They were seen sitting together in a table when the actor leaned towards Maine. He then kissed her on the adjacent side of her shoulder. With this clip circulating online, netizens speculated that they are indeed in a relationship. They have been rumored to be dating because they were spotted together in many instances. PAY ATTENTION: Using free basics app to access internet for free? Now you can read KAMI news there too. Use the search option to find us. Read KAMI news while saving your data! News about them dating intensified when they were also reported to go on a trip abroad. Shippers of Maine and Alden Richards tandem were not convinced initially. Until Maine addressed the rumors and admitted dating the Kapamilya actor through her blog entry. In her recent birthday celebration, Arjo was present, and Maine's fans supported the actress. Fans had been shipping them upon seeing Maine being happy with Arjo. They are called the 'ArMaine' by their fans. POPULAR: Read more about Maine Mendoza here Enjoyed reading our story? Download KAMI's news app on Google Play now and stay up-to-date with major Filipino news! Tricky Questions: What Is Kulangot In English? | HumanMeter HumanMeter continues to ask tricky questions in the streets of the Philippines. We will try to find out how many respondents can answer the question, "What Is Kulangot In English?" Click "Play" and watch our new Tricky Question Challenge on HumanMeter! Source: KAMI.com.gh PM Employment Programme draws mixed reactions The Prime Minister Employment Programme launched on Wednesday has met with mixed reactions, with experts stressing that the outcome will largely depend on how the people receive it and how the government will implement it. Investment Summits progress report card: 48 applications for 31 projects Nijgadh Airport has received the highest number of applications from prospective investors after being showcased at the Nepal Investment Forum last month. Chandan Kumar Mandal is the environment and migration reporter for The Kathmandu Post, covering labour migration and governance, as well as climate change, natural disasters, and wildlife. Aluminum Parts and supporting businesses for manufacturing. Manufacturing blog for Kinetic Die Casting for post regarding manufacturing aluminum parts and for other products that support the manufacturing industry. Some production parts are made by other materials and some posts will be for supporting businesses. One hundred years ago Anna Anderson began her life in Coal Springs, South Dakota. Since then Anderson has lived in Nebraska, Idaho, Iowa and finally Wisconsin, where she has resided for the past 64 years. This past weekend, three celebrations were held in honor of Andersons 100th birthday. The first was a family gathering on Friday, followed by a party on Saturday and a potluck containing only sweet foods on Sunday at the Lighthouse Assembly of God. Religion and church have always been a huge part of Andersons life. Her advice to the younger generation in leading their lives is to have strong faith. I wouldnt want to try life without the Lord, she said. Andersons eldest daughter, Leanne Allen, said faith is something Andersons parents instilled in her, and she passed it on to her daughters. Her mom and dad taught her early on to pray about everything and live by the good book, she said. Thats something shes done. Melodee Lujano, Andersons youngest daughter, said her mother truly is a woman of faith. I dont think you could ever have known a more righteous woman, she said. Betty Waldron, Andersons second daughter, agrees. Shes truly a Proverbs 31 woman, she said. It tells of a godly woman. Not only is Anderson devout, but she has spent her life volunteering at the church and church events. For about 60 years she taught Sunday school to children and adults, volunteered at the ABC Store until she was 95 and has been a leader in the womens ministries for many years. She has also been incredibly giving to others. At her birthday party on Saturday, a family mentioned how they wouldnt have survived without Andersons giving nature, Lujano said. They were a young couple with three young kids, and their grocery budget was $35 a week, Lujano said. She said if it wouldnt have been for Mom and Dad bringing them eggs and butter and milk and beef, they would have never been able to survive. About 50 people attended the family gathering Friday, about 120 on Saturday and even more attended the potluck following the church service on Sunday. On May 6, 1919, Anna Anderson was born to Richard and Edith Miller as the second of three daughters. Anderson was proceeded by her elder sister Margaret Marler and followed by her younger sister Billie Bailey. The family resided in a sod house that Richard had built. Unfortunately, the Great Depression and the Dust Bowl drove the family from the area prematurely. One thing Anderson remembers from the Dust Bowl is the number of grasshoppers that came with the dust. They would latch on you and just hang on, and they would go in the house and they would eat the curtains they would eat everything they could get their hands on, she said. There were so many of them. So the family sold its farm, piled all their worldly possessions into a Model A truck and headed to a new farm near Ainsworth, Nebraska, that they rented from an acquaintance of their uncle, who was a pastor at a church in Ainsworth. After three or four years, the family bought its own farm about three miles south of Ainsworth. Not long after Anderson had to leave school to help her mother, who had scalded her foot when she and Andersons father were butchering a hog. It was Andersons freshman year of school, and by the time she could go back, the school year was out and she would have had to repeat her freshman year. She never returned and instead jumped into the workforce. In 1938 Anderson met her husband, Leland Anderson, when he was dropping her younger sister back home after a date. It was love at first sight. When he took Billie home, I was there and our eyes met, she said. The next time I went with him and that was the end of Billies date. They were married in 1939 on Lelands birthday, when they both were 20, Lujano said. Together the two moved around the country, first to Iowa, where Allen was born, then to Idaho and back to Nebraska, where they had three more children Waldron, Wayne Anderson and Lujano. Back in Nebraska the Andersons did a bit of trucking first, hauling lumber and either hay or some other crop to and from the Black Hills, before buying a farm in Newport, Nebraska. Then in 1955 the family moved to Wisconsin. Lujano said Wisconsin was chosen after a friend of her fathers told them of the state of the farming there. The Andersons we discouraged by the state of farming in Nebraska after losing their crop three years straight. A neighbor man came to Wisconsin to get a load of hay and came back and told my dad, I have found the promise land ... you should see those fields, the corn is taller than our heads. Youve got to go back with me when I go back to get another load of hay, she said. The next load Daddy went with and he came back and said hes telling the truth, its the promise land. Anna Anderson said the week after they returned home they moved to Wisconsin. Lujano said her parents bought the first farm they found on Hwy MM, buying it with all the cattle and machinery on it. One the farm Anna Anderson said she ran the truck and all the machinery, milked cows and more. Allen said her mother was a farmers wife all her life and has always worked hard. Waldron said despite living on a farm, her mother always wanted to travel and loved to do to. In 1982 Anna and Leland Anderson sold the farm, bought a fifth-wheel travel trailer and spent years traveling the country, visiting everywhere except the northeast. They always returned to Wisconsin, Lujano said. They would come home every spring about this time of year, she said. Theyd come home and theyd park in my yard for a while and then theyd park in Leannes for a while and spend the summer here. Then come October when the temperatures started dropping down, Id see Daddy start readying the vehicle to head south. They finally stopped traveling when Anna Anderson wanted to spend time with her grandchildren. They bought a place north of Tomah and lived there until Leland Anderson died in 2002. Anna Anderson now lives with Allen south of Tomah. The hardest thing to get used to as she ages is technology, Anna Anderson said. Cell phones, she said. Those little things that people pick up and start pecking on. Meghan Flynn can be reached at meghan.flynn@lee.net. Love 1 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 During the past two months, I traveled throughout the 31st Senate District and met with constituents to hear their thoughts on the budget introduced by Gov. Tony Evers. I joined Gov. Evers at listening sessions in Eau Claire, Oshkosh, Kenosha and Superior and sat alongside Joint Finance Committee members in River Falls for a public hearing. These were opportunities to listen to the comments and reactions from hundreds of Wisconsinites. Were now on to the next step of the budget process. Despite what the Republican JFC members heard from men and women at hearings in Janesville, Oak Creek, River Falls and Green Bay, theyve decided to start from scratch, disregarding the vast support for The Peoples Budget. They refused to consider the long-term impacts these political actions have on Wisconsins children and women. Its time we pay attention and speak up louder we must make sure the needs and voices of all Wisconsinites are valued. While meeting with constituents in the 31st Senate District and joining Gov. Evers at the budget listening sessions, one thing was clear: Wisconsinites support Medicaid expansion. They back Gov. Evers proposal to accept federal funds to expand healthcare access for 82,000 people in our state. Folks understand the value of Medicaid expansion, which would save our state $324.5 million. By leveraging state funds, we would see an additional $1.6 billion in new federal funding to invest in local programs and services that address Wisconsins most concerning health needs. From that investment, there would be $106 million going directly toward the counties that I represent, including Buffalo, Pepin, Trempealeau, Pierce, Eau Claire, Chippewa and Jackson. A significant portion of these funds would be used to improve health outcomes for women and their newborns by extending postpartum coverage for a whole year, rather than the current 60 days. We must make sure that Wisconsins children continue to grow up in a healthy community. Thats why I strongly support Gov. Evers proposal to invest $52 million in programs to improve lead testing and abatement. Its shocking to know that children in Wisconsin have elevated lead levels in their bloodstream that are higher than the national average. In fact, Buffalo County has higher rates of lead poisoning than in Flint, Michigan, according to the Wisconsin Council on Children and Families. I was encouraged to see that the governor included $2 million in the budget toward preventing childhood lead poisoning in the counties that I represent. Its vitally important for the JFC to add this to the budget. These investments are necessary to ensure our children have access to clean drinking water, which will contribute to their intellectual and developmental growth. The Peoples Budget commits to strengthening womens healthcare by restoring Womens Health Block Grant Funding. These grants are directed to local public health departments and health clinics to provide essential services, including pregnancy testing, cervical cancer screenings, perinatal care, STI testing and treatment and general health screenings. The restoration in grant funding is incredibly important to make sure access remains available for women who need it. Under the previous administration, the block grant funding was cut by 10 percent, according to the Wisconsin Alliance for Womens Health. This resulted in five Planned Parenthood clinics, including one in Chippewa Falls, closing their doors on approximately 3,000 women. These clinics did not provide any abortion services; rather they were open to provide critical primary care. These closures were politically motivated. Investing in womens health initiatives isnt about politics, its just plain common sense. Republicans shouldnt play politics when it comes to the health and well-being of Wisconsin women and children by not expanding Medicaid. Although the listening sessions are over, its not too late to raise your voice to advocate for these programs in the Peoples Budget. The Joint Finance Committee began voting on the budget May 9. Soon they will be making their decision to include Medicaid expansion and determining the fate of programs to support women and children. Call the JFC co-chairs, Senator Alberta Darling at 608-266-5830 and Representative John Nygren at 608-266-2343 or a JFC member from the list that can be found here: https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/2019/committees/joint/1968 Let them know you support these health care investments. Encourage your friends and family to get involved. This is an important time lets make sure all of Wisconsins voices are valued. Democrat Jeff Smith, Eau Claire, represents the 31st state Senate District. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Catch the latest in Opinion Get opinion pieces, letters and editorials sent directly to your inbox weekly! Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Pleasant Ridge Waldorf School wrapped up its annual May Day celebration, Friday, May 3, with a solar array ribbon-cutting ceremony. Joe Lenarz, president of the PRWS Board, said the 10.5 kilowatt direct current panels will offset more than a quarter of the schools electric bill. He said the rooftop solar array, which was recently installed, has already benefitted the bottom line at the school. Its an amazing experience to see how we rise to the challenge of getting things done, Lenarz said. The project was spearheaded by PRWS parents Keith Ashley Wright, who is also a PRWS graduate, Alicia Leinberger and Lenarz. Lenarz thanked Wright for coming forward with the idea, and he said Leinberger had the energy and knowledge to jump in the project early. Lenarz thanked numerous other people involved with the project, including the student and alumni families who volunteered to install the panels. He also thanked Solar for Good, Wisconsin Focus on Energy and RENEW Wisconsin for their assistance. Leinberger, of Ethos Green Power, said it was a dream of hers to gift the school with solar power. She said she has a daughter who graduated from PRWS and has another who is currently an eighth-grader. Its in honor of the childrens father; its our way to give back, Leinberger said. The kilowatt hours are a gift to the school (and) is a hope for the future of children who go to school here. Were hoping its a real financial gift to the school for a long time. Let it be a seed of hope for the future. Leinberger said the 30 panels will provide about 13,000 kilowatt hours of electricity per year. Nathan Patros with Focus on Energy and Sam Dunaiski with RENEW Wisconsin also spoke. Dunaiski said Solar for Good is his most favorite project to manage because it helps nonprofits put money back into their programs once the solar power is in place and is saving them money. Solar for Good facilitates and assists in the installation of solar power at nonprofit organizations across Wisconsin. In addition to funding from Ethos Green Power, the school was awarded a $5,700 grant from the Solar for Good program and a $3,400 grant from Focus on Energy to help with the installation of the array. Angela Cina can be reached at angie.cina@lee.net. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Be the first to know Get local news delivered to your inbox! Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Solvang Lodge 5-457 was called to order at 7 p.m. at the Bekkum Memorial Library Community Room on April 30, with 42 members and guests attending. The 2019 scholarship recipient has been chosen and will be announced at the awards banquet. Several members worked to refurbish five of the citys park benches. We voted to join the Westby Chamber of Commerce. The menu for the Frokost Breakfast will be the same as past years. The Pot O Gold was won by Larry Leum and donated to the Foundation Fund. We will all be working to recruit new members. Our very interesting program for the evening was presented by Linda Dowling. She spoke about her experiences from her visit to South Korea when she traveled with a co-worker. The visit to the DMZ appeared to have been very emotional. The people of South Korea were very friendly and happy to have visitors. The police do very little policing. The Buddhist and Methodist religions are practiced the most. The oldest son in the family is very revered with a large portrait in the home. She had on the traditional South Korean clothing she wore at her son Bens wedding and a display of the outfit Forest wore, along with great pictures and items from that wonderful day when Ben and his South Korean bride were married. David Amundson reported on a book that has been written which contains 750 photos of the 50 years that Syttende Mai has been celebrated in Westby it will be on sale at this years event for $10. Karen Hankee reminded us of the Norwegian church service to be held at the North Coon Prairie Church the evening of May 19. We sang the Norwegian Table Prayer led by Archie Rundhaugen. Lunch was served by Phyllis Eklov and Dale and Diane Piper. Hazel Cornell, reporter Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 From December 19th through December 26th we will be granting free access as a gift to our readers presented by : The Board Store A Chinese professor was sentenced to life in prison in 2014. The La Crosse chapter of Amnesty International has been writing to Chinese authorities monthly to seek his immediate release as he is a prisoner of conscience, imprisoned solely for his exercise of his right to freedom of speech. Recently, a bipartisan group of 13 U.S. senators and representatives from the Congressional Executive Commission on China has sent a letter to the Nobel Peace Prize Committee nominating our "prisoner of conscience," Ilham Tohti, for the 2019 Nobel Peace Prize. Our Amnesty International group will continue to write letters monthly on behalf of Ilham Tohti. If you are interested in helping with this effort, you are welcome to contact me at tompyrek@gmail.com or 608-799-8648 for further information. Tom Pyrek, La Crosse Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 1 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 An Anaheim police officer has been fired and another will face discipline for their involvement in the fatal shooting of a 50-year-old man last year, Anaheim Police Chief Jorge Cisneros announced Wednesday. At a news conference, Anaheim police played a body-cam video showing the fired officer, Kevin Perdersen, and the other officer, Sean Staymates, shooting out of a car window at the suspect, Eliuth Penaloza Nava, dozens of times. According to a report by the Orange County District Attorney's Office, the two officers shot at Nava's car a total of 76 times in a residential neighborhood, "where residents, including children, were home and on the streets." Officer Pedersen's pistol was determined to have fired 64 shots and Officer Staymates' gun fired 12, according to the report. "The District Attorney of Orange County, and the public, expect the Anaheim Police Department to make sure that the conduct of the two involved officers is reviewed administratively for proper, fair, and complete accountability," the report says. Warning: This video contains graphic content: Anaheim Mayor Siddhu said he was highly disappointed by what the video showed. "In this incident we failed in what we expect from ourselves, and what the community demands of us," he said. The district attorney's office declined to file any criminal charges against officers, but called the shooting "alarming'' and "irresponsible." During the course of their investigation, the office conducted 15 interviews and contacted 25 additional witnesses. Investigators also looked at police reports, body camera footage, audio dispatch recordings, lab reports and Nava's criminal history, among other evidence. On the morning of July 21, 2018, Anaheim police received a call alleging that a man armed with a gun and a knife was sitting in a parked vehicle, possibly on drugs and "hallucinating," according to the report. Nava had a history of drug abuse, according the investigation's findings, and both of his parents feared that he was using again when his brother made the call to police. When officers arrived on the scene, on the 500 block of South West Street, police identified him based on a photo and his Chevy S-10 truck, the report said. According to the report, when he saw the police Nava started the car and made a u-turn. In the video, one of the officers yells, "Stop the car, stop the car, dude." Both raise their guns and point them at Nava's vehicle. According to the report, Nava did not comply and instead started driving away. A chase ensued. According to the report, during the chase Officer Pedersen saw Nava reach down toward the floorboard of his car: Officer Pedersen's BWC [body-worn camera] captures him saying, "He's got a - I think he's got a gun." As Nava turned the truck down Water Street, Nava then pointed the gun out the window and aimed it directly at the officers as if he were going to fire at them. Officers Pedersen and Staymates both feared Nava was going to shoot and kill them. Officer Pedersen wanted to stop Nava from hurting anyone and felt lethal force was necessary. The video shows Officer Pederson shooting multiple bullets through his front and side windows during the pursuit. Pedersen told investigators that he continued to fire out of fear that Nava might start "randomly shooting civilians in the area." According to the report, during the pursuit, Nava continued to point the gun at the officers and himself. He also waved the gun in the air. As Officer Pedersen reloaded his handgun, he called for Officer Staymates to "start firing." After Nava almost hit two pedestrians with his truck, Officer Staymates fired two rounds from his rifle. About three minutes into the video, one of the officers says "Subject is hit. We know he's bleeding." Seconds later, more shots are fired in quick sucession, as the officers exit the patrol car and shoot directly into the Nava's white pick-up truck. The report details the alleged exchange: At approximately 9:47 a.m., Nava stopped the truck in front of his residence where the pursuit had started. Nava did not put his hands up in the air, or give any indication that he was surrendering. Both officers feared that as the driver door opened, Nava would pop out and fire at the officers and/or any individuals in the surrounding area. This fear was based on Nava's actions of pointing a gun at them several times, leading them in a pursuit, and displaying a total disregard for public safety. Pedersen came to a stop in the roadway as Officer Staymates leaned out the passenger side window and fired one round at Nava. While still in the police car, Officer Staymates fired an additional eight rounds into the back of Nava's truck. Officer Staymates indicated that he fired in an attempt to stop Nava from exiting the truck and firing at them. After that, Officer Staymates fired approximately four additional rounds towards Nava, fearing that he might go back into the house and harm family members, according to the report. In the video, Officer Pederson then pulls Nava's body out of the car and calls for medics. More officers arrive on the scene and the cameras stop running. Still from Officer Pedersen's body cam footage, after Nava's body was pulled out of the truck. Courtsey of the Organge County DA's office. According to the report, Pederson kicked the gun away from the body -- the silver knife that Nava had was found on the ground next to him. Nava was transported in an ambulance to UC Irvine Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead at 10:12 a.m. The Orange County Coroner's Office later confirmed that Nava had been shot at least nine times in the head, neck, and "upper extremities." Nava's weapon was later tested and found to be a CO2-powered air pistol, not a real gun. The report says "it was black in color and extremely similar in appearance to an authentic 9mm Luger pistol." A GoFundMe to help Officer Pedersen and his family was posted in October by a member of the Anaheim Police union. It's already raised over $21,000. Jill Repogle and Suzanne Levy contributed reporting to this story. 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 loneliest Liz Lin ever felt was when she realized the Asian American church she had embraced as a teen was no longer in sync with the adult she had become: a feminist who cared about racial justice and LGBTQ rights. Most Asian American churches are conservative, so Lin's search for a congregation that matched her theology led her to progressive churches where she was a minority. "Usually those spaces are super white and often don't really know what to do with you if you're a person of color, for all of their good talk about race," said Lin, 36. It turns out Lin is not so alone. In 2016, she co-founded a lively online community called Progressive Asian American Christians or PAAC whose members met this past weekend in Los Angeles for their second conference. About 170 people from across the country filled the gothic-style Immanuel Presbyterian Church in Koreatown. Some were fresh off flights and rolling suitcases, their voices giddy at meeting like-minded Christians. Many used to attend predominantly Korean and Chinese American evangelical churches, but left for more liberal congregations or don't go to church anymore. Members of Progressive Asian American Christians register on the first day of the conference. (Josie Huang/LAist) Sam Chung, a pastor from Los Angeles, was raised in a large Korean American church that is dominated by male leaders and opposes gay marriage -- like most Asian American churches. He knew he no longer belonged after volunteering at a hospice where gay patients were dying of AIDS. "Seeing all these people that were abandoned by the Christian church, I realized something was wrong, you know?" Chung said. "Churches hid behind their walls but didn't really care for those who were sick and dying." He ended up at predominantly white churches where he said his ethnicity was at times erased and other times, unmistakably noticed. "Nice white church ladies (were) telling me 'Oh, you read scripture without an accent. That's great,'" Chung said laughing. FROZEN IN TIME Christians make up a substantial minority of Asian Americans, with one survey finding that more than 40 percent are Christians. The rates are as high as 89 percent for Filipino Americans and 71 percent for Korean Americans. Thousands of Asian American churches were started by the wave of immigrants who came after the mid-1960s, when a change in U.S. policy made it easier to emigrate. Those who've left traditional Asian American churches said they tend to be conservative because they were created by immigrant members who were raised in cultures that prized collectivism, deference to elders and modesty. And then there was the self-consciousness about being in a new country. "I feel like that brings with it the sense of 'Keep your head down. Don't take too many risks, just keep quiet, they'll let us in," said Lin, the daughter of Taiwanese immigrants. The churches took on many roles for the immigrant congregants -- community centers where the adults socialized, schools where children could learn their parents language. Lydia Shiu, a Korean American pastor who co-founded PAAC with Lin, said that created insular worlds that saw many immigrant churches "just kind of get stuck in the year that they moved here." Liz Lin (l.) and Lydia Shiu (r.) co-founded Progressive Asian American Christians after meeting in 2016. (Josie Huang/KPCC) Shiu, who's father was a Presbyterian pastor, has thought a lot of why most Asian American churches remain conservative. "You tend to get very stagnant in your theology because you're not actually interacting with a bigger denomination and have the cross-pollinating of ideas," said Shiu, who first connected with Lin when both were living in the Bay area. Shiu said that Asian American pastors model themselves after white evangelical leaders such as Tim Keller, John Piper and Rick Warren of the Lake Forest-based Saddleback megachurch. "They're the majority," Shiu said. "We're immigrants and so we take cues from the people the center of power: white men." When Shiu and Lin first met for coffee in 2016, Lin was about to publish a first-person essay that was later picked up by the Huffington Post and went viral. Shiu had just started a Facebook group for progressive Asian American Christians. Today, that group has grown to 6,000-plus people and has spun off into subgroups meant for Filipino Americans, parents, people with disabilities, Canadians... the list goes on. Members have held local meet-ups in more than 20 cities. There is also a PAAC website, book club, digital magazine and podcast. Members of Progressive Asian American Christians file into Immanuel Presbyterian Church in L.A.'s Koreatown for a three-day conference. (Josie Huang/LAist) Daniel Lee, the assistant provost for the Center for Asian American Theology at Fuller Theological Seminary in Pasadena, said it's not a coincidence that PAAC coalesced as a group after the election of President Trump. The issues raised during Trump's White House run -- white nationalism, sexism and xenophobia -- were a catalyst for some Asian American evangelicals to re-examine their faith, Lee said. And that's something, he said, most Asian American churches were not set up to handle. "The churches themselves have been trained in this conservative white evangelical Christianity, so the structures themselves are having a hard time attending to these needs," Lee said. Shiu said for some PAAC members searching for a community, the group itself has become their version of "church." DIVERGING VOICES That's doesn't mean everyone always agrees. There are crackling online debates about male privilege and race. Even the issue everyone seems to support -- equal church rights for LGBTQ members -- has sparked differences. Kyle Wong is part of an LGBTQ ministry at Evergreen Baptist Church of Los Angeles in Rosemead. For an Asian American church to offer such a group is unusual. So is the fact that one of the group's members recently became a deacon at Evergreen. Still, its pastors have decided not to perform same-sex weddings, Wong said, because "there's a lot of people who are conservative and have said 'hey, if that happens, we're leaving the church.'" Kyle Wong, left, at a mixer for members of Progressive Asian American Christians. (Josie Huang/LAist) For Wong, that's OK. He said he wants to help make changes from within the church. He hopes one day the Sunday school curriculum will acknowledge same-sex couples. That the church will make at least one bathroom gender-neutral. "I would rather be in the tension, and be part of the movement, instead of just, like, joining a progressive faith." Why? "I would be comfortable," Wong said, "but maybe, like, wouldn't be as needed." But for others like Jonathan Mabuni, it's more important that his church be "fully-affirming" than have an Asian American congregation. "There's so much to be said about a space where LGBTQ people have the space to breathe, where there's not this instant judgment cast on who they are," said Mabuni, 25. Mabuni attends New Abbey, a progressive, multi-ethnic church in Pasadena where whites make up the largest group. He said he's happy there, although he wants to improve the way the church talks about race. For example, he notes that a church panel held on race several months ago lacked an Asian American. He's been heartened, though, by overtures his church leadership has made to Asian Americans. Last year, he and three other Asian Americans were invited to share their past church experiences with the congregation. He recalled how ancestor worship, practiced by his Chinese American mother's side of the family, was treated like it was "evil" at his childhood church, he said. "The white evangelical faith tradition I was raised in devalued a lot of my ancestry," Mabuni said. A NEW CHURCH TRADITION Still others say there's no reason that progressive Asian Americans can't have it all -- a church that aligns with their culture and values. Last fall, Sam Chung, the pastor from L.A., helped launch the First Progressive Church in Los Angeles. Sam Chung (l.) leads the First Progressive Church of Los Angeles with co-pastor Eula Pagdilao. (Josie Huang/LAist) At a service last Sunday, Chung, wearing a rainbow stole, looked over the congregation of 20 people. "We pray for those who don't get to live authentically for who they are, those who are persecuted for their sexual orientation, their sexual identity, their nationality, their status in this world," Chung said. The church hasn't celebrated any same-sex weddings, yet. Chung said he can't wait for the first ceremony. "We're not just the model minority, you know, supposed to be keep quiet and just follow along," Chung said. "We can be active and step forward. So let's do it." A church like his has started in New York and some PAAC members are also planning new churches in Oakland and Seattle. For these Asian Americans, it's the start of a new church tradition. Listen to the audio version of this story here. Josie Huang covers Asian American communities. Read more of her work: The Other LA College Cheating Scandal -- The One You Might Have Missed You've Seen Those Shen Yun Ads All Over LA. Here's What The Show Is Really About Nearly 2,000 Visit The California Desert To Remember A Dark Chapter In American History Striking Mandarin-Language Teachers Held A Rumor Control Rally In Chinatown 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 When my editor first assigned me a story about a pop-up kitten cafe, I assumed I'd be writing a literal fluff piece about another L.A. instagram-trap. Little did I know, I would uncover a massive, unrelenting, sad-town kitten crisis in Los Angeles. Yes, you read that correctly. A KITTEN CRISIS. Over the next several months, tens of thousands of kittens will descend upon our streets and shelters, like an adorable tiny horde. Why? Our fair city has an extra long, feline mating season, thanks to our mild weather. It can last almost nine months. Because of that, spring and summer equals kitten overload, which means shelter overload. Warning: If you have had a particularly bad day and feel like you might burst into tears over an AT&T commercial, now might be a good time to stop reading, take a deep breath, and get into a hot bath. Ok, emotionally-secure and self-aware readers! Onward. It turns out L.A. euthanizes hundreds, possibly thousands, of kittens in the spring and summer during cat mating season, because there are just too many kittens running around causing mass havoc for our shelters to handle. More on that (horror) later, but first let's take a step back to see how this film-noiresque tale of truth-finding got started. I cannot with this. Cash Jr., one of the ASPCA's foster kittens is cuteness overload infinity. Want to foster yet? (Photo courtesy ASPCA) HOW I BECAME A KITTEN EUTHANIZATION TRUTHER Kristi Labrenz, the founder of the CatCafe Lounge in Westwood, invited us to a preview of a pop-up kitten "lounge" in downtown L.A. she's planning to open this summer. I couldn't make it to the preview (correction: my boss would, understandably, not let me take half a day off to pet kittens) so I gave Labrenz a call and started asking her my questions, namely why. Call me a skeptic, but despite widespread Japan-induced cat cafe madness, I didn't really get why anyone would want to drink a matcha latte while touching clawed, hair-shedding animals. But within the first minute of talking to Labrenz, who is obviously very passionate about cats, I nearly dropped the phone. She said that local shelters often euthanize kittens at high rates during kitten season, because they just don't have the resources to bottle-feed them. In some cases, if they receive kittens 5-weeks-old or younger, they euthanize them immediately. "It's a necessary evil, unfortunately," she said. Mass kitten euthanization?! That sounded like a serious accusation. I decided to do some fact-checking. Stray kitten at the Baldwin Park Shelter, at the height of kitten season, June 2017. (Photo courtesy ASPCA) FACT-CHECK: TRUE I called the ASPCA and said for the first time in my life, "I have some questions about about kitten birthing season," much to the amusement of my co-workers. Tina Reddington runs the ASPCA's Los Angeles Volunteer & Kitten Programs, which pairs kittens with foster homes until they are old enough for adoption. She told me that what Kristi said is 100% true -- L.A. County and city shelters receive hundreds of kittens a day in the spring. In Los Angeles, 90% of the almost 34,000 kittens that enter shelters each year, arrive during this time period. L.A. has so many kittens, in fact, that the ASPCA puts 30 of them on Alaska Airlines planes to Seattle and Portland every Friday for delivery to Pacific Northwest shelters that have a high kitten demand. ASPCA kitten airlift! November 2016. (Photo courtesy ASPCA) "We even have special kitten weigh-stations at the Burbank airport," Reddington said. They are, in fact, adorable. But 30 kittens a week does not a crisis solve. "Cats are far and away one of the most vulnerable [animal] populations in Los Angeles, period," Reddington told me. "And kittens are a vulnerable population within that group." L.A. city shelters have already euthanized 16 kittens this year and 219 cats, according to public data from L.A. Animal Services (that number is lower than county shelters becuase of the city's no-kill initiative). Between July 1, 2018 and April 30, 2019 L.A. county shelters euthanized 9,043 cats (in comparison to a little over 2,000 dogs)-- their data doesn't specify how many of those were kittens, but the ASPCA focuses their kitten rescue work there, where they say it is most needed. Kittens that are under 5-weeks old can't stay in a shelter because they need to be bottle-fed, which requires around-the-clock care. And shelter resources in L.A. are already spread thin. Kittens aren't adoptable until they're at least 8 weeks old, which is the minimum age for spaying and neutering. Another reason we're experiencing kitten overload: L.A. is full of feral cats -- we don't have a good headcount but there could be as many as several million roaming our streets. To make matters worse, the city currently has an injunction on Trap-Neuter-Release policies. Local feral cat politics are heated (ba dum..chh), so in the meanwhile rescue groups like ASPCA are doing the best they can to get as many kittens adopted as possible. Champa the kitten will make an appearance at Tiny Beans. Look at this little angry face and tell me you don't want to adopt him, I dare you. (Photo by Casey Christopher/ Courtsey CatCafe) THE KITTEN CAFE This is why Labrenz is creating the kitten cafe, called Tiny Beans, a phrase commonly used to describe the round padding on kitten paws (heart melt). She's working with rescue groups that have bottle-nurseries, like the Stray Cat Alliance, so that they can take kittens out of shelters and get them ready for adoption. These groups usually have to trek all over the city to get the kittens adopted, which is a lot of legwork. Now they'll be able to transfer all of these kittens directly to the cafe. "We've just figured out a way to be a part of the kitten pipeline from bottle-baby status to adoptable age," she says. "It's basically a showcase of these amazing, adoptable, cute, fluffy kids." Despite the title, there is no actual cafe in this kitten cafe (which is why it's technically a kitten "lounge"). Meaning just kittens, no lattes or cold brew or sandwiches. I, personally, am fine with that. No one goes to a cat cafe for the food. The goal is to get more kittens adopted so that rescues have the space to save more from high-kill shelters. Eventually, Labrenz would like to open a more permanent location, but this is a start. The price for admission goes directly into the costs of running the facility -- the CatCafe is a 501(c)(3) non-profit. Cat cafes, when you think about it, are a win-win for both parties. Getting cuddled and pet by humans helps to socialize the kittens and make them more friendly, and therefore more adoptable, Labrenz says. And studies show that petting an animal actually makes humans less anxious -- it's an all-around mental health boost. I mean, is there really a better antidote to the sad dumpster fire of post-capitalist life than petting a god-damn kitten? IS THERE? Reddington gives the kitten lounge a big thumbs up, on behalf of the ASPCA. "This kitten cafe idea is incredible because the more kittens that can go out into adoption, the more kittens can go into these foster programs," she said. But if you can't make it to Tiny Beans, fear not! There are other ways to get some much-needed kitten time. This is Gigi. Please adopt her. (Photo by Casey Christopher/ Courtesy CatCafe) Meet Lou Reed, future Tiny Beans resident. (Photo by Casey Christopher/ Courtsey CatCafe) This is Sushi. Sushi has very special whiskers. ((Photo by Casey Christopher/ Courtsey CatCafe) YOU (YES, YOU!) CAN SAVE THE KITTENS Reddington says that L.A. has an urgent need for more kitten fosters. Every time someone fosters a litter of kittens, rescues and shelters have room to save more (and euthanize less). Both Reddington and Labrenz say the worst thing you can do if you find a kitten on the street is bring it to a shelter, where it could be euthanized. It's likely that the mama cat just left the kitten to go find food, so Public Service Announcement Alert: if you see a kitten on the street, leave it there! Reddington started her kitten program two years ago, basing it out of the county shelters in Baldwin Park and Downey, which have the highest animal intake in the city. To date, the program has rescued 3,400 fur babies. Now the ASPCA is starting their own campaign to educate the public on how they can help -- you can put your zip code into the site and find a shelter where you can volunteer to foster. L.A. Animal Services has an urgent need for foster volunteers at city shelters right now-- Currently East L.A. has the highest number of kittens looking for a home (59), followed by South L.A. (36). They also have an Amazon wishlist for needed kitten items like heating pads and baby blankets that you can have sent directly to the shelter of your choice. More info here. Michelson Found Animals Foundation in Culver City also has a kitten foster program. For those interested in Trap-Neuter-Return programs, local org Fix Nation has tips. They also operate a free spay/neuter clinic for cats. L.A. doesn't have a lot of kitten nurseries because Labrenz says they are extremely complicated and costly to operate, requiring 24-hour care. But Best Friends runs a one in Mission Hills that works with city shelters to lower kitten kill rates-- they take around-the-clock volunteers. Duties include bottle-feeding (!!). One of ASPCA's rescue kittens. (Photo courtesy ASPCA) Tiny Beans opens May 18th in downtown L.A at 551 S. Spring St. Pre-sale tickets are now available. The price of admission is $25 per hour. And if you're more of a dog person, there's a cafe for that too. UPDATES: 10:15 a.m.: This article was updated with more accurate euthanasia numbers for L.A. city and county shelters as well as additional information about TNR, shelter foster needs and bottle-feeding volunteer programs. Black Womens Health Imperative Announces Strategic Partnership The Black Womens Health Imperative (BWHI) has announced a strategic partnership with the National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Inc. (NCBW) at the NCBW Day of Action and Advocacy in Washington, DC. The multi-year partnership was established to raise awareness of health disparities and solutions, and to provide access to vital healthcare and wellness information that promotes behavioral changes and healthier lifestyles in Black communities, according to a news release. The Black Womens Health Imperative is a national non-profit organization dedicated to advancing health equity and social justice for Black women, across the lifespan, through policy, advocacy, education, research and leadership development. ADVERTISEMENT The organization identifies the most pressing health issues that affect the nations 22 million Black women and girls and invests in the best of the best strategies and organizations that accomplish its goals. The shared common priorities of BWHI and NCBW to reach the community and other key stakeholders about the health and wellness of Black women created an opportunity to partner nationally, officials said in the news release. Our strategic partnerships with progressive and powerful organizations like the National Coalition of 100 Black Women are vital to achieving our mission because they provide the amplification needed to reach more Black women with life-saving information and resources, said Linda Goler Blount, President & CEO, The Black Womens Health Imperative. Together, we will advance conversation and action around critical health issues, like maternal mortality and the impact of stress, with full confidence that our partnership will increase awareness and strengthen our efforts to improve Black womens health and impact policy at the state and federal level, Blount said. The National Coalition of 100 Black Women (NCBW) was launched in 1981 with the mission to advocate on behalf of women of color through national and local actions and strategic alliances that promote the its agenda on leadership development and gender equality in the areas of health, education and economic empowerment. The national movement has garnered thousands of members who represent 60 chapters across 28 states. ADVERTISEMENT Several of NCBWs national health and wellness initiatives, including addressing heart disease, diabetes, strokes and obesity among Black women, created an opportunity for BWHI to provide solutions through evidenced-based programming and research-driven policy recommendations. I am very excited about NCBWs and BWHI partnership said NCBW President Virginia W. Harris. Together our goal will be to improve the African American health status and reduce health care costs and, this partnership will leverage and maximize resources by pooling talent, expertise, and resources, Harris said. She added that the partnership will also improve outreach to stakeholders and enhance visibility, messaging and minimize duplication of efforts. Elements of the partnership will include hosting community health forums in cities across the country, collaborating on advocacy opportunities related to maternal mortality, diabetes, breast cancer and the Affordable Care Act, creating health tool kits for local NCBW chapters, and more. For more information about The Black Womens Health Imperative, please visit www.bwhi.org. Call 2 Worship May 9 First AME Church commemorates the 30th Anniversary of the Annual Walk to End Hunger on May 11, at 2270 S. Harvard Blvd., in Los Angeles, said Pastor J. Edgar Boyd. The Sarah Allen Womens Missionary Society sponsors the event. Registration begins at 7 a.m., and the ceremony at 7:30 a.m. The walk will begin at 8 a.m., starting at FAME Church. To participate or obtain information, call the church at (323) 735-1251. West Angeles Church of God in Christ presents A Day in May with Lady Mae on May 11, at 9:30 a.m., at 3045 S. Crenshaw Blvd., in Los Angeles. First Lady Mae Blake will share words of inspiration, healing, laughter and love. The donation is $40. On May 12, at 8 a.m. and 11 a.m., Dr. Judith McAllister, will be the guest speaker at the Mothers Day services. McAllister, an author and recording artist, directs West Angeles Worship and Arts Department. To learn more, call (323) 733-8300 or visit westa.org. ADVERTISEMENT Carson Community Deliverance Center Church sponsors a Womens Prayer Service on May 11, at 10 a.m., at 555 E. 220th St., in Carson. The public is invited to attend for worship and prayer. For information, call (310) 835-7905. Brookins-Kirkland Community AME Church observes Mothers Day on May 12, at 9 a.m., at 3719 W. Slauson Blvd., in Los Angeles, said Pastor Mary S. Minor. The BKCAME Mens Ministry plans a gift of love for every woman in attendance. To learn more, call (323) 296-5610. Walking in the Spirit Ministries hosts a Fellowship Breakfast on May 12, at 11 a.m., at Sonoma Grill in the Doubletree Hotel, 13111 Sycamore Dr., in Norwalk, said Pastors Tim and Leshia Brooks. The community is invited to bring a guest or family member to the event. Bryant Temple AME Church presents its Spring Revival 2019 on May 14-16, at 7 p.m., at 2525 W. Vernon Ave., in Los Angeles, said Pastor Dwaine A. Jackson. The theme is Here We Are to Bow Down based on 2 Chronicles 20:3-4. The revivalists are Pastor Joseph Robinson of Resurrection Church in Carson on May 14, the Rev. Dr. Thema Bryant-Davis, associate minister at First AME-L.A. on May 15, and Pastor Jamal H. Bryant of New Birth Missionary Baptist Church in Lithonia, Georgia on May 16. For details, call (323) 293-6201. ADVERTISEMENT Crenshaw United Methodist Church holds the Save our Sons Prison Ministry meeting on May 19, at 2:30 p.m., at 3740 Don Felipe Dr., in Los Angeles, said Pastor Royce Porter, Sr. The topic will be My Story: 20 Years in Prison. A former inmate will discuss life before conviction, strategies for success on parole and integrating back into society. Call (323) 292-0141 for information. Grace United Methodist Church plans a Karaoke Fundraiser on May 25, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., at 4112 W. Slauson Ave., in Los Angeles, said Pastor Cedric Bridgeforth. The program, open to all ages, will feature Stan the Prayed-Up Man, music, line dancing, games and refreshments. The donation is $10 for adults and $5 for youth. On June 29, the Back-to-Church Comedy Show takes place at 5 p.m. Lester Barrie and Friends will perform along with professional comedians. All ages are welcome. The donation is $20. To learn more about both events, call (323) 294-6653 or visit graceumcla.com. Chevrolet and NNPA Discover the Unexpected Journalism Fellowship Launches its Fourth Year! Like many of her peers, for Ila Wilborn, the best part of the General Motors and National Newspaper Publishers Associations (NNPA) Discover the Unexpected (DTU) Programwas the opportunity to gain genuine experience while working in a professional news organization. Wilburn is currently a graduating broadcast journalism student at Florida A&M University and an anchor for the award-winning FAMU-TV. However, she spent the summer of 2018 as a DTU Fellow at the New Journal and Guidein Norfolk, Va., an NNPA member media company. I was able to work closely with media professionals and see their daily steps to success, said Wilborn, who drove a white 2018 Chevrolet Equinox as part of the fellowship. ADVERTISEMENT I was placed in uncomfortable situations, which forced me to step outside of my comfort zone and grow as a journalist, she said. I believe that myself and the other fellows were benefitted because our work has been published online and in newspapers across the country and I can now search my name on Google and see the work that Ive created or contributed to, Wilborn said. Each year since 2016, General Motors Chevrolet brand has partnered with the NNPA, a trade association that represents more than 200 African American-owned media companies across the country. The Discover the Unexpected Journalism Fellowshipprovides a $10,000 scholarship, $7,500 stipend and the road trip of a lifetime to between six and eight students selected for the honor. This year the trip will take place in the all-new Chevy Blazer. In addition to the cash and access to an amazing car, selected full-time sophomores, juniors and seniors attending Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) who are at least 18-years old, will also experience exciting challenges while discovering and documenting inspirational stories about the African American community. Using NNPAs professional resources and traveling in the latest Chevrolet fully loaded with features and innovative technology, DTU Fellows have shared stories, shattered perceptions and jump-started journalism careers. The alumni from DTUs 2016, 2017 and 2018 Fellowships have proven an encouragement for all to Discover the Unexpected. Alexa Imani Spencer, who founded the first student-chapter of the Ida B. Wells Society for Investigative Reporting at Howard University, drove an all-new Chevrolet Equinox for one month as a 2017 DTU Fellow working with the Washington Informerin Washington, DC. ADVERTISEMENT Spencer said she was honored to work for the historic black newspaper and benefitted greatly from the experience. In the same objective as the ancient scribal practice of writing on walls in Ancient Egypt, or Kemet, we ensured that the African experience in America would be chronicled precisely as it was lived, Spencer said. As Fellows, we had not worry about transportation, funds for housing, food and other living expenses. We were well taken care of and the program took full consideration of our needs in a way that other programs that do not acknowledge the disparities of African-American students may not, she said. The DTU Fellowship was an unforgettable experience and like no other, Spencer continued. To have such an immersive learning experience with media professionals is something that I will forever be grateful for. I learned photography, videography, editing and on-camera interview skills from this fellowship and have been able to master my craft, she said, adding that its her belief that the experience will help her in the future in part because of the lifetime connections shes made with media and corporate professionals. As one of the first Fellows in the program in 2016, Briahnna Brown drove a 2016 Chevy Malibu during her assignments with the Chicago Defender. A Howard University Graduate and current staff writer at GW Today, Brown also said she enjoyed her experience in which she experienced live-reporting through social media both in Chicago and in Cleveland during the Republican National Convention. I think it helped me to get social media reporting experience, Brown said. I also loved traveling with the program because it exposed me to new experiences such as covering a NASCAR initiative in Indianapolis. A senior at Howard University whos majoring in Media, Journalism, and Film Communications with a concentration in journalism and a minor in Spanish, and a budding communications professional and strategist, 2018 DTU Fellow Daja Henry said she enjoyed both driving the supplied 2018 Chevrolet Equinox and working at the Atlanta Voice and The New Journal and Guide. I had a lot of autonomy in choosing and writing stories, Henry said, noting that she covered various stories in places like Atlanta; Charlotte, N.C.; and Norfolk, Va. During her fellowship, Henry also gained other experience including serving as a director and producer on a documentary. DTU was an amazing experience for me because it solidified my beliefs in the importance of the Black Press and self-determination, Henry said. The Program exposed me to so many new places and people, which in turn, expanded my mindset tremendously. The program allowed me to do exactly what the name says Discover the Unexpected, she said. Perhaps speaking for each of the Fellows, Spencer said she believes its absolutely necessary that the younger generations are aware and engaged with the DTU program and the Black Press. We are next up, she said. This is an extension of the call-to-action put forth by NNPA to todays youth: I urge you to pay attention to the Black Press, Spencer said. Learn the history and invest in preserving and contributing to it. In order to be self-determined, we must speak for ourselves, she said. First Ladies Share Words of Encouragement for Mothers Day Mothers Day is May 12 and the observance usually means gifts and enjoyment for women who serve in that role. Unfortunately, in these troubled times, some women are facing overwhelming troubles and obstacles in their lives, which makes it hard to celebrate in the midst of their situation. The L.A. Sentinel asked three local first ladies to offer words of encouragement to mothers who may be facing challenging circumstances. Below are their responses. First Lady Jacquelyn Calloway, Bethel AME Church ADVERTISEMENT It has been said that challenges are often tools by which God fashions us for better things. As mothers, when challenges come, dont break down, rather breakthrough with L.O.V.E. Listen to the voice of God or the Spirit within. Overlook or overcome the obstacles or negativity in the way. Value the things that are important to you. Encourage yourself, even if nobody else does. The Apostle Paul encouraged the Corinthians with these words: Now abides faith, hope and love, but the greatest of these is love. I Corinthians 13:13 First Lady Fredericka Santee, Philippian Baptist Church Greetings in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, who continues to show us extraordinary favor. I want to let you know that God will reward you for faithfulness. Gods plan for your life is that you have joy and live life to the fullest. He allows you to experience challenging circumstances so you can learn to love and trust Him in deeper ways, so you can grow more mature, developing a strong character to become more like Jesus, Proverbs 3:5-6 says, Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight. First Lady Togetta Ulmer, Faithful Central Baptist Church I would like to encourage mothers who are facing challenges to just remember, first of all, that Gods got you. Hes got your back and never cease to pray about whatever the problem is. Also remember that you are loved by your children, regardless of the problems that you are facing. Most importantly, God loves you and sees you and everything that youre doing to try to change your situation. He is in front of it and He loves you more than you can ever imagine. ADVERTISEMENT Dont give up, keep going. The Bible says, The race is not to the swift nor the battle to the strong, (Ecclesiastes 9:11) but to the person who endures until the end (Matthew 24:13). They have the wherewithal. See it through to the end and remember that you can make it! HOUSE DEMOCRATS WANT US TO DO THEIR JOB $174,000.00 Thats what every member of the House of Representatives receives in salary each year. Every member, that is, except Nancy Pelosi, who as the Speaker of the House, gets to take home $223,500.00. Those are not bad wages, even if these legislators work five days a week with only two weeks off annually for vacation. But Congress has averaged only 138 legislative days a year since 2001. If you do the math, you will see that comes to less than three days a week. Undoubtedly, many members of the House of Representatives can articulate why they need so few days in session. Their stated reasoning might include the rigors of carrying out their constitutionally mandated functions. ADVERTISEMENT But therein lies the rub. The House of Representatives is refusing to carry out one of its more important constitutionally mandated functions. When the Founders of this nation wrote the Constitution, they did not want the country to be forced to blindly trust and follow the person holding the office of the President. And for this reason, they divided the power of the government into three distinct branches and gave each branch equal status. In order to prevent the President from becoming a tyrant, the House and Senate were given the responsibility and authority to perform oversight of the Executive Branch. In order to properly carry out their job, Congress must provide oversight of the president. We now have a sick and twisted man-baby fouling the oval office. Donald Trump does not respect the rule of law or the institutions of our federal government. He is determined to bend all aspects of our national structure to his will and he has found pliant minions who have been willing to ignore, and even break, the law in service to their overlord. Neither Congress nor the nation has ever seen anything like this before. The purulent character of Trump has infected most agencies of the executive branch of our government and released bigots, misogynists, xenophobes and every other manner of villain as antigens into the body of our democratic society. While Trump burns down the house that America has built, Republican lawmakers have become his collaborators. And too many Democratic members of the House of Representatives, cowered by the thought of angering the Republican base, simply quail in the face of this onslaught against our liberties. ADVERTISEMENT Two centuries ago, Congress was given a tool with which to rein in or remove an abusive president because the Founders knew it was possible a day like today might arrive. The House of Representatives has the power of impeachment. In fact, it has the sole power of impeachment. The Senate cannot impeach. It can only try a federal officer who has been impeached by the House of Representatives. The process has been clearly laid out in Sections 2 and 3 of Article I of the Constitution. Once the president has been impeached by the House of Representatives for high crimes and misdemeanors, he or she is then tried on those charges by the Senate; and if convicted, he or she shall be removed from office. The House of Representatives does the impeachment and then the Senate conducts the trial. The impeachment process allows the House of Representatives to investigate the wrongdoings of Donald Trump wrongdoings that are clearly laid out in the report of Special Counsel Robert Mueller. And if substantiated, those wrongdoings can then be presented to the Senate where their deliberations can be observed by the American public. But rather than carry out their sworn duty, the Democratic leadership in the House of Representatives, citing the difficulties in carrying out impeachment proceedings, would rather call on the American electorate to vote Trump out of office in 2020. This strategy is designed to maximize Democratic seats in Congress while relieving the Democratic majority in the House of the obligation of doing its difficult job. Fear of losing elections because you did your job is putting party before country. This calculated political expediency and shirking from impeachment is one reason why the current Democratic leadership in the House cannot stay in place much longer. Attempts at dressing this self-serving cowardice in a suit of tactical shrewdness will not dupe right thinking Americans. Nancy Pelosi has argued that impeachment proceedings will solidify Trumps base. Clearly, she is making a political calculation and not a moral decision grounded in the Constitution and her oath of office. Oscar H. Blayton is a former Marine Corps combat pilot and human rights activist who practices law in Virginia. Our Democracy is on the Line, Congress Must Act Now While the debate whether President Trump obstructed justice should be over with the release of Special Counsel Robert Muellers report, unfortunately, it is not. In fact, it has just begun as Congress prepares to conduct exhaustive examinations into these breathtaking revelations. Given the overwhelming evidence to the contrary, Attorney General Barrs attempt to exonerate Trump is simply stunning. It is crystal clear that Trump interfered with the Mueller investigation. Even the redacted report contains a multitude of actions in which Trump obstructed justice in one of the most consequential investigations ever conducted regarding the state of our democracy. ADVERTISEMENT We warned the nation about Attorney General Barr when we opposed his confirmation to the position. We told the Senate that William Barr can never overcome the public perception that he endorsed Trumps efforts to hold himself above the law. William Barr simply cannot serve as the independent leader our country needs at this critical time. We were correct. Barrs lack of independence and Trumps obstruction raises critical questions about the rule of law. But this is also about the integrity and security of our democracy. Just as important in the Mueller report was the astounding disclosure that our country was subjected to a full-scale attack on our democratic process. Astonishingly, the Mueller report concluded that Russia interfered in the 2016 presidential election in sweeping and systemic fashion. Russia intended to benefit and did in fact benefit Trump. We also know that the Trump campaign knew about Russias assistance and welcomed it with open arms. Russia helped Trump win the presidency by manipulating voters, fomenting racial division, and targeting the African-American community to suppress voter turnout. Back in December 2018, we led a boycott of Facebook. We called upon Congress to conduct further investigations into Facebook after a report released for the Senate Intelligence Committee revealed that the Russian influence campaign made an extraordinary effort to target African-Americans using an array of tactics to suppress turnout among Democratic voters. Now, with the results of Robert Muellers report, the outrage should be palpable. Congress must fully investigate, take all appropriate action, and ensure the integrity and security of our democracy. This must be done with the urgency it requires. The 2020 election has already begun. Candidates are making pitches. Voting machines are being purchased. Yet our democracy is not safe from the external forces that want to cause us harm. Congress begins their examination and investigation without a full record, and completion of that record must be a top priority. ADVERTISEMENT The redacted report released by Attorney General William Barr falls woefully short of what is owed to Congress and to the American people. It shows that the Trump administration is intent on hiding facts and covering its tracks. Mr. Barr should immediately release the complete Mueller report in unredacted, unedited, and unvarnished form. The American public deserves the truth. We are also troubled by Special Counsel Muellers decision not to press for a subpoena or interview of Trump. Trump has caused infinite damage to the office of the presidency by impeding justice and subverting the rule of law. He should be called to answer and held accountable for his actions to harm our democracy. Our democracy is in a holding pattern. We need answers and we need them fast. The Trump administration has already harmed our civil rights in devastating ways, and it will take us years to recover. But we cannot, and must not, allow the foundations of our democracy to be undermined, knowing full well of the threat. This is our democracy, and we must act to protect it. Pilgrims Hope Honors Pastor and First Lady Robinson The 3rd Pastoral Anniversary of the Rev. Dr. T. Delbert Robinson and First Lady Jasmine Robinson will celebrated each Sunday in May by the members of Pilgrims Hope Bible Church. A moment of appreciation will be delivered during the 10 a.m. worship services in the churchs sanctuary located at 7016 S. Compton Ave., in Los Angeles. The theme is A Church Connected to its Covering based on the scriptural references of 2 Samuel 5:1 and 1 Chronicles 11:1. The observance will conclude on Sunday, May 26, at 5 p.m., with a special service featuring Bishop Milton M. White, pastor of Victory Full Gospel Baptist Church in Pasadena. Victorys choir and members will participate as well. ADVERTISEMENT We extend an invitation to the community to share with us in this special celebration of our pastor and first lady. God has graced us with his dynamic leadership and he continues to lead us into deeper dimensions in God as we strive to carry out the mandate of Connecting Believers to the Source of Hope, said Elder Evelyn Worline, anniversary co-chair. This is our time to show our love and appreciation for Pastor and Lady Robinsons dedication and commitment to this ministry and we invite everyone to join us, added Brother Jerol Crawford, anniversary co-chair. To learn more, call Pilgrims Hope Bible Church at (323) 581-7672. Right-wing Disrupters Recently, I saw two separate stories about right-wing disrupters. In one case, a well-known bookstore in the Washington, DC area, Politics & Prose, was visited by right-wing disrupters during a book event focused on whiteness. In another case, a discussion of race and politics in the Dominican Republic was disrupted by alleged Dominican fascists who are allies of the grandson of the notorious Dominican dictator, Rafael Trujillo. Liberal and progressive individuals and institutions should expect disruptions to not only continue but to increase in scale. Given the signals that the Trump administration has conveyed to the political Rightas in suggesting that it is appropriate to beat up opponentsthe rabid Right feels empowered. So, what does one do? Here are a few suggestions. ADVERTISEMENT First, we should take personal and institutional security seriously. Disruption can be carried out through right-wingers simply chanting or it can take the extreme form of violent attacks, e.g., the bombings of mosques and synagogues; the assassination of progressives. This means ensuring that our institutions are protected and that there are security teams prepared to intervene when there is a threat of physical violence. Second, be careful about provocations. The history of the COINTELPRO operation that disrupted progressive and radical groups in the 1960s and 1970s, demonstrates that agents and other disrupters can either carry out a provocation to encourage progressives to break the law, and/or they can infiltrate our organizations and institutions and covertly encourage us to carry out illegal activities. Many great activists found themselves incarcerated or killed as a result. Third, establish clear rules for behavior at all events and meetings, and ensure that such rules are posted and/or circulated. It is not uncommon to have a provocateur(s) stand in a forum and speak beyond their time limit or to engage in forms of personal harassment. Under those circumstances it always needs to be made clear to the audience who is in the right and who is in the wrong before any actions are taken. More than twenty years ago I saw an excellent example of the handling of a disrupter. Bernadette Devlin McAliskey, the iconic Irish leftist and nationalist, was delivering a presentation on the situation in Northern Ireland to an audience of hundreds. Well-known for her outspoken support of socialism, a united Ireland, and rights for the Catholic (nationalist) community in Northern Ireland, McAliskey was the subject of assassination attempts and various forms of harassment. An opponent, who was obviously a supporter of Britain and the Protestant (Loyalist) community, surfaced in the audience during the question and answer. He started asking very provocative questions and clearly aimed to disrupt the event. Rather than evict the provocateur, McAliskey asked the provocateur questions and let him talk. Within a few minutes the provocateur demonstrated that he was an idiot and vanished. We are not entering a new era. These sorts of disruptions have a long and ignominious history in the USA. Many people have forgotten this and act as if so-called civility is the normal state of affairs. The right-wing has little interest in civility but a great deal of interest in suppressing progressive thought. ADVERTISEMENT So, get organized! Bill Fletcher, Jr. is the former president of TransAfrica Forum. Follow him on Twitter, Facebook and at www.billfletcherjr.com. He is the author of the murder mystery The Man Who Fell From the Sky. Singleton Funeral Private, Peaceful 27 years after his Boys n the Hood fame, the family of John Singleton held a private funeral for him at Angelus Funeral Home, on Crenshaw Blvd., in Los Angeles, CA. Singleton was a giant in the film and television industry but more importantly, he told the Black story and represented inner-city Los Angeles like no one had done before; all by age of 24. He not only found acclaim as a filmmaker, but also created opportunities for many of the top actors we know today in Cuba Gooding, Jr., Maurice Chestnut, Angela Bassett, Taraji Henson, Tyrese, and more. A few celebrities stopped to give their reflection about his life: I was happy to be a part of the celebration of life for John Singleton. The world just does not know what a great man and human he was. He was incredibly creative and his spirit. he helped so many people. John was always giving he gave me a shot in Baby Boy, but he was always reaching out to help people. John did that. Jackee Harris ADVERTISEMENT He helped paint picture of our journey as Black men, over centuries. From Boys n the Hood to well for me, its Rosewood and Baby Boy. So, he showed different aspects of the Black mans journey and the Black family unit journey, Ving Rhames. Its a very hard day. I dont say goodbye but saluting my brother, John Singleton, my friend of 30 years. I will miss him. John Singleton started it, he should the world what inner-city L.A. was all about. Im so honored that he pulled my in to be a part of his vision. So, now its our opportunity to carry on the torch. A. J. Johnson While its not confirmed, there is talk that Singletons family is planning a memorial to celebrate his life on a larger scale. Perhaps Singleton will deserve a statue, scholarships in his name and more. He not only represented and told the stories of inner city Los Angeles but also shot most of his films in inner-city neighborhoods and was able to bring money back into the community. Singleton brought pride to inner city communities and represented himself in a positive light. Boyz n the Hood told our story that resonated with most; that was the genius of his writing. Congresswoman Maxine Waters spoke of Singletons amazing career and stopped to mention her prayers for his family. When asked which was her favorite emphatically said, Boys in the Hood! she said. SOMEONE GREAT A New Excuse to Join Netflix! According to details as provided by Netflixthe world has signed up for the streaming service. Im sure thats not exactly, true there is one good reason to give the platform a whirl (you can cancel at any time) and that reason is the romantic comedy Someone Great whichhold on to your socksgreat viewing for men and women and its so good (yes, its that good) that you will want to watch it more than once. It landed on Netflix on Friday, April 19 and stars Gina Rodriguez as Jenny, a 30-something who is deeply feeling her breakup with Nate (Lakeith Stanfield), her boyfriend of the last nine years. Its not as if something horrible happened to break up their love nest. No baby mama drama. No third party interjection unless you call life and getting your dream job at Rolling Stone and moving from New York to San Francisco, the other woman or another man. To get her through one of the worst days of her young life are her two best friends Erin (DeWanda Wise) and Blair (Brittany Snow). ADVERTISEMENT (official trailer from series) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BBd9gcrj2Wk&feature=youtu.be The movie is packed with clever flashbacks that show the best and the worse of Jenny and Nates relationship. Heres where sharing the smart dialogue would be helpful in helping you really understand why this film works for both men and women. Its fair please, lift your jaws from the floor. Our girl Jenny knows that a man does not complete her and that she will be just fine on her own. Wellshe has her ride-or-die best friends, and that kind of love and support is like having clean oxygen. We spoke with the writer, director of Someone Great Jennifer Kaytin Robinson about how she made such a wonderfully balanced, funny, and diverse movie in a time when Hollywood doesnt seem to understand how to exactly pull that off. Here is an edited excerpt from our phone conversation: LOS ANGELES SENTINEL: Hello, Im your new best friend. JENNIFER KAYTIN ROBINSON: (laughing) Thank you. How are you? LAS: Im still laughing at your wonderful film Someone Great and may I add, I cant believe how flipping good the writing is! Its like you wrote the film just for me. ADVERTISEMENT JKR: Thank you, well I did. I did write it for women so yes, I did. LAS: You cant read a news feed without Hollywood echoing their commitment to diversity and inclusion, but rarely doing anything about it. Plus your film is stunning, thank you new BFF. Your message of love is very layered. JKR: (laughing) You are welcome. First, a man does not complete you. That doesnt mean you cant have an amazing man or woman or gender non-binary person by your side in life. But I really wanted to make a romantic comedy that was rooted in self-love, and about choosing yourself. LAS: Talk about self-love your casting is perfect. Details, please. JKR: Gina, DeWanda, Brittany, and I have such an amazing, strong bond, and the characters have such a strong bond in the script. They made it easy. Friendships arent always rainbows and sunshine, but, but, always, always, always rooted in that really deep place of love and sisterhood. LAS: Exactly, if you were a chemistry teacher youd make something explode with Gina, DeWanda, and Brittany. Am I right? JKR: They clicked. Gina and DeWanda went to NYU together and as two women of color, they had a bond thats over ten-years-old. Brittany and I have known each other since we were 18, right before we started shooting, the four of us went to brunch together. And we were loud but we all know the movie was going to be one of the most rewarding experiences. It honestly felt like lightning-in-a-bottle magic. Casting the three of themthey fit so perfectly and so seamlessly and disappear into each of these characters in such an amazing way that its hard to say why it happened. I couldnt see anyone else as Jenny, Erin, or Blair. There just is no one else that could have possibly worn these characters. LAS: Please give me more on the diversity thats reflected in your movie. All joking aside, thank you, Jennifer Kaytin Robinson. JKR: You are so welcome, Lapacazo. Did I say that right? LAS: We are BFF now, its all good! JFR: The movie takes place in New York City, one of the most diverse places on the planet. LAS: Tell Hollywood that oopsI talked over you. I shall be silent, go! JFR: Since its shot in New York it was a no-brainer to me to make sure that this movie reflected the audience it was for. For a very long time, weve seen a lot of movies that have a narrow view and lens, and that is representing a very specific type [of person], whether its race, gender, or sexuality. I wanted this movie to reflect all the people that its for and to have it feel very inclusive, but without it feeling like a political statement. Its just a movie about love and friendship, and we happened to be able to cast really, really incredible people who are diverse and who make this movie feel correct and inclusive and wonderful. LAS: Someone Great is now my go-to movie. I play it in the background to keep me company when I am lonely. JKR: Yeah. Oh, thats nice to hear. Thank you. Its exciting to share this film and have women and men feel really seen by it. LAS: Can I read the screenplay? JKR: You absolutely can. I will make sure that the Netflix publicist sends it to you. LAS: Thank you! Someone Great is now playing on Netflix. SPECIAL REPORT: Mass Incarceration of Women and Minorities a New Crisis Courtesy The Marshall Project/PBS Although the number of people in prisons and jails in America has slightly declined, numbers released on Thursday, April 25, by the Bureau of Justice Statistics still show that nearly 1.5 million individuals were in prison by the end of 2017. ADVERTISEMENT The statistics also note that the U.S. continues to lock up more people than any other nation. And, despite a narrowing disparity between incarcerated black and white women, females have emerged as the new face of mass incarceration. I dont think this should be much of a surprise as two of the main for-profit prison companies were founded around the same time, said Ron Stefanski, whose website prisoninsight.com, works to hold prisons accountable for the treatment of current, former and future inmates. When these for-profit companies were created, they found a way to generate revenue off of inmates and this led to a huge influx of prisoners, both male and female, Stefanski said. In 2000, black women were incarcerated at six times the rate of white women, but in 2017, black women were imprisoned at less than double the rate of white women, according to the latest information. The number of white women in prison has increased by more than 40 percent since 2000 while the number of black women incarcerated has fallen by nearly 50 percent. The most recent report from the Prison Policy Initiative revealed that, looking at the big picture shows that a staggering number of women who are incarcerated are not even convicted with one quarter of the women behind bars having not yet gone to trial. ADVERTISEMENT Sixty-percent of women under the control of local authorities have not been convicted of a crime and adding to the picture of women in local jails, aside from women under local jurisdictions, state and federal agencies pay local jails to house an additional 13,000 women, according to the Prison Policy Initiative. For example, ICE and the U.S. Marshals, which have fewer dedicated facilities for their detainees, contract with local jails to hold roughly 5,000 women so the number of women physically held in jails is even higher. According to the Prison Policy Initiative, avoiding pre-trial incarceration is uniquely challenging for women. The number of un-convicted women stuck in jail is surely not because courts are considering women, who are generally the primary caregivers of children, to be a flight risk, according to the Prison Policy Initiative report. The far more likely answer is that incarcerated women, who have lower incomes than incarcerated men, have an even harder time affording cash bail. When the typical bail amounts to a full years income for women, its no wonder that women are stuck in jail awaiting trial, the reports author said. Even once convicted, the system funnels women into jails: About a quarter of convicted incarcerated women are held in jails, compared to about 10 percent of all people incarcerated with a conviction. Also, while stays in jail are generally shorter than in stays in prison, jails make it harder to stay in touch with family than prisons do. Phone calls are more expensive, up to $1.50 per minute, and other forms of communication are more restricted some jails dont even allow real letters, limiting mail to postcards. This is especially troubling given that 80 percent of women in jails are mothers, and most of them are primary caretakers of their children. Thus children are particularly susceptible to the domino effect of burdens placed on incarcerated women, the reports author said. Black and American Indian women are markedly overrepresented in prisons and jails, according to the report. Incarcerated women are 53 percent White, 29 percent Black, 14 percent Hispanic, 2.5 percent American Indian and Alaskan Native, 0.9 percent Asian, and 0.4 percent Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander. While we are a long way away from having data on intersectional impacts of sexuality and race or ethnicity on womens likelihood of incarceration, it is clear that Black and lesbian or bisexual women are disproportionately subject to incarceration, Prison Policy Initiative Author Aleks Kajstura said. Three out of four women under control of any U.S. correctional system are on probation, according to Kajstura. Probation is often billed as an alternative to incarceration, but instead it is frequently set with unrealistic conditions that undermine its goal of keeping people from being locked up, she wrote for the Prison Policy Initiative. For example, probation often comes with steep fees, which, like bail, women are in the worst position to afford. Failing to pay these probation fees is often a violation of probation. Childcare duties further complicate probation requirements that often include meetings with probation officers, especially for women with no extra money to spend on babysitters or reliable transportation across town. All of these issues make women particularly vulnerable to being incarcerated not because they commit crimes, but because they run afoul of one of the burdensome obligations of their probation supervision, Kajstura said. Still, she noted in the report that the picture of womens incarceration is far from complete, and many questions remain about mass incarcerations unique impact on women. Based on our analysis in this report, we know that a quarter of incarcerated women are un-convicted, she wrote in the report. Kajstura continued: But is that number growing? And how do the harms of that unnecessary incarceration intersect with womens disproportionate caregiving to impact families? Beyond these big picture questions, there are a plethora of detailed data points that are not reported for women by any government agencies, such as the simple number of women incarcerated in U.S. Territories or involuntarily committed to state psychiatric hospitals because of justice system involvement. Surgeon General Visits South L.A. School as Part of Statewide Listening Tour California Surgeon General, Nadine Burke Harris visited Locke Early Education Center April 30, to help staff and students there celebrated Dias de Los Ninos (Day of the Children) and to also talk about the services LEEC is providing for the community. Harris took a tour of the facility where the staff specializes in addressing childhood trauma. She also asked about ways providers at the school thought they could improve. What are some of your challenges, Harris asked during the tour, and the staff was ready with answers. I think the hardest challenge is stigma and getting families here to [take advantaged of] services, said one staff member.. ADVERTISEMENT A majority of the families we see here are dealing with underlying trauma like family violence or housing issues. Mental health may not be at the forefront. To that, Harris posed the question, As you are dealing with children who have issues at home, perhaps they have a parent dealing with mental issues or other concerns or stressors how often do you see parents and caregivers struggling to overcome those issues and what is your approach to that? Kids come with parents, responded another staff member who said she is a child psychiatrist. So, engaging with them as part of our assessment, we are automatically working with the parents and caregivers. Once we gain their trust that really opens the door to us working with them. We refer a lot of our caregivers [to therapeutic resources]. LEEC has partnered with child advocacy group First Five L.A. to help provide some of their services. One notable service, PCIT (Parent Child Interaction Therapy), continued the staff member. PCIT has been amazing since we implemented it over a year ago. We have been able to really get the students involved (in therapy). Were really excited about working with the little ones, added one of the PTIC providers. ADVERTISEMENT If you could wave a magic wand and make one thing happen, Harris continued with her questioning, what would it be? Being able to reduce stigma [around mental health], was the consensus. Resources where families can come to treatment without obstacles, was another. Harris rounded out the day with a full tour of the center and interaction with the students. Burke Harris visit was part of a statewide listening tour to raise awareness about the connections between adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), toxic stress, and serious health conditions. As Californias first Surgeon General, one of my top priorities is to raise awareness that Adverse Childhood Experiences, like emotional abuse or witnessing domestic violence, can increase the risk of major health problems like asthma, diabetes and heart disease. But adversity is not destiny, said Dr. Burke Harris. The science is clear: early intervention improves outcomes. Meanwhile, here in Los Angeles, LEEC shares that priority with Harris. According to qualitystart.org, LEEC has been rated on the quality of teacher-child interactions and has a plan for improvements, has been rated on if the quality of the learning environment is safe, clean, and enriching, and has a plan for improvements; meets licensing requirements by assessing the state of a childs health and ensuring immunizations are up-to-date, uses a state-approved tool to observe childrens development at least twice a year from which the results are entered into a software program to track childrens progress and to plan learning activities in the classroom. Also, there are at least three teachers for every nine infants, three teachers for every 12 toddlers, one teacher for every eight preschoolers and a group size less than 20. The staff completes 21 hours of professional development annually. Dr. Burke Harris is a pediatrician, known for linking adverse childhood experiences and toxic stress with harmful effects to health later on in life. She is an advisory council member for Hillary Rodham Clintons Clinton Foundations Too Small to Fail campaign, and the Founder and former chief executive officer of the Center for Youth Wellness. Suzan-Lori Parks Pulitzer Prize-winner Talks About Native Son and More Im was nervous to speak with Suzan-Lori Parks, which is unusual for me, a woman who does not get my proverbial panties-in-a-bunch for anyone. So the fact that I felt a flutter of butterflies banging against my belly makes me lean into the very thing that all of Parks works do to meand I suspect mostit makes me dig deep and think. We connect via phone despite the fact that we are both in New York City and the moment I hear her warm, sunny voice the butterflies disappear and I find myself dropping into a familiar tone like shes a neighborhood lady whom I see, daily, as we both wait, early mornings, to get caffeinated. But shes not familiar like that. On the other phone line is the one-and-only Suzan-Lori Parks whose responsible for the adaption of Richard Wrights Native Son, now playing on HBO and directed by Rashid Johnson. Shes the first female African American to receive the Pulitzer Prize for her play TOPDOG/UNDERDOG (2002) and shes a straight up genius. And to support my assertion that Ms. Parks is bonafide, in 2001, she was the recipient of a MacArthur Foundation Genius Grant. ADVERTISEMENT Bam, Im dropping the proverbial mike! A prolific writer shes the author of the novel Getting Mothers Body and also wrote the screenplays for Girl 6; Their Eyes Were Watching God; Anemone Me, and the upcoming The United States vs. Billie Holiday. Her legacy in theater continues and following her critically acclaimed trilogy FATHER COMES HOME FROM THE WARS, the Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright and the Publics Master Writer Chair Parks returned to New Yorks Public Theater with the world-premiere of WHITE NOISE, a play about friendship, race, and our prickly social climate. It stars Tony-Award winning actor, Daveed Diggs (HAMILTON), Sheria Irving, Thomas Sadoski, and Zoe Winters. The Los Angeles Sentinel connected with Suzan-Lori Parks to chat about Native Son, James Baldwin and songwriting. Here is an edited conversation. LOS ANGELES SENTINEL: What were some of the biggest challenges in adapting Richard Wrights searing novel Native Son into a screenplay? Its a great piece of work by first-timer director Rashid Johnson. SUZAN-LORI PARKS: There were a few. It was important to make it relevant for now (2019). In the novel, for example, having a coal furnace in a house in 2019 thats old. I had to find a way to make that make some kind of sense because most houses dont have that kind of heating system anymore. We also decided not to use the courtroom scene keeping the focus on the core characters. We really wanted to spend our time with Big and Mary and their developing friendship so we spent our time on the front end not on the back end. The idea that Big, Mary, Jan and Bessie might all become friends, we dared to see how that played out. LAS: This marks the third adaptation of Wrights novel, do you think his work is still relevant today? ADVERTISEMENT SLP: Yes, it is. Its hard for people of African descent. We struggle. The idea that someone can work hard and struggle and try to do things right, try to do things correctly, try to play by the rules, and still fall through the cracks. LAS: Your new play WHITE NOISE has been extended at The Public Theater (April 21). You have your lead character, a Black man, Leo (Daveed Diggs) offering himself as a slave to his best friend who is a White man. Why? SLP: Think about it. What makes a brother shot another brother? What makes somebody say, excuse the language, but fuck it Im just gonna suicide by cop. Like Leo says in the play, People, Black people especially, are falling prey to despair. People in this country, Black people and Latino people, and Asian people, and White people and all kinds of people, Native, Indigenous people have been promised things and this country hasnt been coming through. There is a huge amount of despair. So people are taking desperate measures. Its just a desperate measure. Its kind of simple. Its so simple, you go dawng. Thats the world we live in now. LAS: James Baldwin encouraged you to write plays, is that correct? SLP: Mr. Baldwin taught a short-story-writing class in the fall of 1982. I was an enthusiastic and hard-working undergraduate in his class. He said it was his first creative writing class that he ever taught. There were 15 of us in the class. We all sat around a big table and wrote our work. I was very animated with all my gesturing and I used voices for the characters in my stories. Mr. Baldwin said, Have you ever thought about writing for the theater? I started writing a play that day. LAS: Im really surprised that you write songs? One of them was in WHITE NOISE. SLP: Ive been writing songs longer that Ive been writing anything, really. So many of my plays have my songs in them. I always put my songs into my plays. I have a band SUZAN-LORI PARKS AND THE BAND and we perform around the country. Its another thing that I do. LAS: So whats next for you Suzan-Lori Parks? SLP: Im performing with my band. Our next gig is in May at the Wholly Mammoth Gala in Washington, Washington, DC. I still teach each Monday night, at the Public Theater under WATCH ME WORK which is also streamed live via The Public Theaters Facebook, and through Howlround. LAS: And what about on the big screen? SLP: Im the show-runner on the Aretha Franklin project for NatGeo which is pretty great. They are doing two projects on Aretha because shes just all that. [Director] Lisel Tommy is doing one, shes doing the biopic. Im doing to the one for NatGeo, the genius series. They did [Pablo] Picasso, [Albert] Einstein and now Aretha Franklin so thats pretty cool. https://www.publictheater.org/Tickets/Calendar/PlayDetailsCollection/18-19-Season/White-Noise/ http://suzanloriparksandtheband.com The Mueller Report: Blacks Better Be Careful As I always say, Weak people take strong positions on weak issues. Exhibit A for this is the recently released Mueller report. Democrats have lost their damned minds over this report. They didnt get the result they wanted, an indictment of President Trump, so they figured if they keep investigating, they will come up with something they can use to remove Trump from office. ADVERTISEMENT Muellers report was very clear, on both the accusations of collusion and obstruction, there was NOT sufficient evidence to bring charges in either circumstance! Period. End of sentence. Was there unflattering information about Trump and his aides in the report? Yes. Did Trump and some of his aides walk up to the line between legal and illegal? Yes. But, in our system of justice either you violated the law, or you didnt, and Mueller clearly concluded that Trump and his aides did not cross the line. So, legally Trump and his aides are in the clear. Politically is where the problem is for Democrats especially Black Democrats. Lets get one thing straight, Democrats dont have the guts to actually file articles of impeachment against President Trump after Mueller has clearly stated there is not sufficient evidence for him to bring any charges. Now radical liberal Democrat members of Congress like Maxine Waters and Al Green are running over each other demanding that the president be impeached. Hmmm, do you really want to go down that road? ADVERTISEMENT Let me paint a picture for you to consider. Jussie Smollett, the actor who concocted a fake story about being assaulted in Chicago, had all charges dismissed against him. Legally, like Trump, he is in the clear. In all probability, the U.S. Department of Justice is going to file federal charges against Smollett for mail fraud because he mailed a fake letter threatening himself but made it seem as though the letter was mailed by someone else. I can guarantee as clear as day that Waters and Green will be the first to claim that the Justice Department is only doing it because Smollett is Black, with absolutely no evidence to support their claim. But wait. Let me make sure I understand. Mueller found insufficient evidence to bring forward charges of collusion and obstruction against Trump, but Democrats say to hell with Mueller, we want impeachment. But, if and when something similar happens to a Black, then it is racist? I am through. I have a headache! The one takeaway for me in the Mueller report that no one seems to be talking about is how the report made clear that, in America, we have two systems of justice. One for the rich and well connected (Jussie Smollett and Hillary Clinton), and one for regular people like Pookie and LaQueesha. Russian intelligence knew how corrupt and vulnerable the Clintons were to their intelligence operations. They knew the Clintons loyalty was to money, not America. Every country let me repeat EVERY country, that has the means, spies and interferes in the internal affairs of other countries. I laid this out in a column I wrote two years ago titled, Russia is Winning the War for American Minds . Americans, for the first time in history, have had a front row seat to a psychological operations campaign live and in living color, in real time. This, indeed, is unprecedented. So, to radical Black liberals, you better be careful! You didnt like the results of the Mueller report, so you want to treat Trump as though he was indicted. When this happens to someone Black, remember you started it! In liberalism, intent is more important than results. As a matter of fact, that is the sole basis of liberalism not results. So, when white folks hold you to the same standard, please spare me your cries of racism! Democrats are in the process of ensuring the re-election of Donald Trump as president. They have provided absolutely no serious vision of where they want to take America. They have offered nothing but grandiose platitudes to the American people, especially to Blacks: reparations, DC statehood, etc. Have you noticed that not one Democrat candidate for president has mentioned anything about the killings going on in Chicago? Or the stagnant wages of the Black worker despite the phenomenal Trump economy for Blacks? They have spent more time talking about amnesty for the upwards of 30 million illegals because they are too ignorant to realize that when you increase cheap labor in the marketplace wages go down! The reason Democrats are obsessing about the Mueller report is because they have nothing of any substance by way of policy to offer the American people. The reaction by radical Black liberals to the Mueller report should serve as a cautionary tale for the Black community. There will be a Black version of Donald Trump and he will be subjected to the same treatment as our current president. When it happens just admit that whats good for the goose is good for the gander; and it has nothing to do with race. Raynard Jackson is founder and chairman of Black Americans for a Better Future (BAFBF), a federally registered 527 Super PAC established to get more Blacks involved in the Republican Party. BAFBF focuses on the Black entrepreneur. For more information about BAFBF, visit www.bafbf.org. You can follow Raynard on Twitter @Raynard1223. SENTINEL EXCLUSIVE: Three Young Black Queens Make Pageant History The LA Sentinel sits down with each of the 2019 title holders For nearly 100 years, young girls excited by the glamour and beauty of the Miss America and Miss USA competition have watched annually as women, mostly White, take the stage to compete for scholarship prizes and the title of pageant queen. ADVERTISEMENT When Cheslie Kryst won the Miss USA title last week, she knew it was monumental but she didnt think the moment would go down in American pageant history. I didnt realize all of us were Black until a lot of people started posting on social media about it. And I thought, oh my God, youre right, were all women of color which is really great. So, I was excited to kind of realize that. I was really thrilled to be one-third of that kind of trifecta, says Kryst. The 26-year-old practicing lawyer won the title of Miss USA last Thursday, making history as she, Miss America Nia Franklin and Miss Teen USA Kaliegh Garris all African-American women hold titles as the queens of the nations largest pageant competitions. This is the first time all three title holders have been Black women and each of the ladies show that they are in an era where Black women can do anything they want. With style, grace and hard work, Cheslie Kryst, Nia Franklin and Kaliegh Garris are all great examples of how Black women are becoming more empowered socially and politically to challenge marginalization and do the meaningful work they are destined to do. For Nia Franklin, 26, things have calmed a bit since winning her Miss America title. She was the first to win the competition since the 98-year old organization decided to eliminate the swimsuit and nightgown portion of the competition. The trained soprano has an undergraduate degree in music composition and she also completed a Masters in Music at the University of North Carolinas School of the Arts in 2017. Ironically, this was around the time she met Kryst, who was pursuing her law degree at Wake Forest University in North Carolina. My first reaction was pure joy for Cheslie, said Franklin. Shes a friend of mine and she is my attorney. So, when she won, I was so happy for her. She is so deserving and as great as she is, she not only deserves that but she has a pure heart of gold, and it made it that much more exciting for me to watch that crown get placed on her head. Kaliegh Garris, 18, made Black girl magic on stage during the Miss Teen USA competition, donning a mane full of tight natural curls. After her crowning moment, thousands of viewers celebrated Garris decision to wear a curly afro instead of the traditional straightened hair or extensions most African-American competitors are encouraged to wear during the pageant. Several took to Twitter to applaud Garris natural tress. One user tweeted: A Black girl won Miss Teen USA and they had to put the crown on top of her curly fro. I couldnt be more proud. ADVERTISEMENT Even more impressively, Garris is a dual-student, attending Joseph A. Foran High School and the Educational Center for the Arts, where she majors in theatre. Although shes the youngest of the new Black queen trifecta, Garris is an accomplished role model dedicated to the movement she created in honor of her older sister with disabilities. Its called, We are People 1st and it educates youth on how to respectfully speak to people with a health issue or disability. From Krysts pro-bono work in prison reform, to Garris interest in trapeze performance, and Franklins talent as an Opera singer, these young women are adding pages to the narrative of the contributions Black women are making in America. The LA Sentinel spoke with each title holder about their wins and what it feels like to be a part of the historical pageant trio. Los Angeles Sentinel: Nia, thanks so much for talking with the LA Sentinel. Our community has been really excited about your win since back in September. From singing on the radio with Sway to performing with the Fort Meyer Army Chorus, can you tell us what some of the highlights have been so far? Nia Franklin, Miss America: One of the highlights for me happened very early on and it was attending the Metropolitan Operas opening night. The reason that it was so important to me to be there and such a great moment for me personally, was because less than a year before attending that opening night, I was working in their call center, which was a minimum wage job in New York City. I was using that job to get through a time of unemployment as I was in- between jobs after competing my fellowship at Lincoln Center. So, to be there, less than a year later, being on the red carpet as Miss America was a complete shift from where I was just less than a year before that. It was very symbolic for me. LAS: Many Black women and young Black girls are celebrating your win as a triumph of their own. What does that mean for you? NF: I completely embrace that mindset. This is a win for the Black community, this is a win for women of color, and young girls across the world to see the three of us in this light and on this national stage and it proves that there doesnt have to be one at a time in these positions there can be all three of us at a time. Cheslie Kryst, Miss USA: Its exciting. I actually began competing in pageants because my mom was Mrs. North Carolina 2002 and she was actually the second Black Mrs. North Carolina. For me, being a young girl when she won I was about 10 years old I was thrilled to be able to watch her during her reign and to watch the power that she had because of her title, and I knew that I wanted that. It was important for me to have that role model of a Black woman who has achieved a lot and has been a trailblazer herself, and really blazing the trail for me. It was incredible and Im really glad to be able to be that example for other people now. LAS: Kaliegh, as you and Cheslie both mentioned on stage, we are in an innovative era where young women are more politically and socially empowered than ever. As Black women, we are also more empowered to embrace our natural beauty and hair. Tell me about your decision to wear your natural hair during the pageant. Kaliegh Garris, Miss Teen USA: When I was younger, I always wore my hair straight because it made me blend in with the people around me and when youre younger thats all you want to do is be like everyone around you and fit in. As I grew up, I needed my own sense of identity and with the help of my friends with natural hair, they helped me educate myself before doing the big chop. It just gave me a sense of identity and my team coming into Miss Teen USA was always supportive and never wanted to change my hair because they knew thats what made me unique and special. LAS: How does it feel to be catapulted into a position of being a role model at such a young age? KG: I have been telling people that its crazy because I still feel pretty normal. Im just a teenager and when these celebrities were reposting my crowning photo and things like that, I was the one fan-girling. Its really cool to see the other end of it. When people direct message me saying that I have been an inspiration to them and I message them back saying thank you and they freak out that I actually answered them and so seeing that other view of it is insane. LAS: What I loved about watching your stories is that it brings light to the fact that Black women are much more than the stereotypes and marginalized status that is often placed on us. Nia, for instance, seeing a Black woman who sings opera like you is such a novelty, but maybe it shouldnt be? NF: I grew up singing in church, soulful gospel music. I have written over 100 songs in mostly the R&B style of music. I was trained to sing in opera in college and when I had the opportunity to start competing in the Miss America organization, I never really hesitated. I knew that I would always sing opera because it shows people, especially in the industry, that I definitely am the minority in that I wanted to make a mark. I wanted to show little Black girls and little Brown boys across the world that you can sing opera and be Black. I also wanted to show everyone that there are stereotypes but there are other genres that we sing too and Im so happy and grateful that I was able to share that on the Miss America stage. Win or lose, that was a goal of mine. LAS: Tell us whats to come in the year ahead. CK: Dress for Success is an international organization that I would love to continue to advocate for. I volunteer a lot and fundraised for Dress for Success Charlotte. With their suiting program, what they do is, if a woman cannot afford clothing to wear to an interview, they provide her that clothing. If the woman is chosen for that interview, Dress for Success Charlotte will provide a full wardrobe to that woman, so that she can start her job off on the right foot. I want to make sure that women have the resources they need to interview for jobs and start off in the workplace on the right foot and Dress for Success answers that. I hope to spend my year advocating for the organization. KG: Im a senior in high school and I go to two high schools actually. So, in June I will have both of my graduations, so thats exciting. Im going to college in the fall. Also, I really plan on traveling. I havent really had the chance to travel and now I have the opportunity to, so Im really excited with that. Also, to spread my personal movement We Are People 1st,which trains kids and adults on how to properly use People First language, which Im excited to bring that on a national scale. NF: Im having a great opportunity to perform with so many wonderful orchestras and different musical groups across the country. So, the next thing I have coming up is this May, I will be doing four concerts with the Dallas Symphony and one of the songs Ill be singing in the concert is Summertime. Ill be singing it in the classical style which was written by George Gershwin. Its an opera that was written for African-Americans so Im looking forward to singing it so much. Thats another one of those full-circle moments for me because its one of the songs I competed with when I won talent in the Miss North Carolina scholarship organization. To learn more about the Miss USA, Miss Teen USA and Miss America Organizations, visit missuniverse.com and missamerica.org. Thursday, May 9, 2019 Guest Blogger: Liz Keyes, University of Baltimore More than 700 clinicians gathered in San Francisco earlier this week at the AALS Annual Clinical Conference, and immigration shone front and center in so many ways. Recognizing Extraordinary Advocacy: Sarah Rogerson First, the incomparable Sarah Rogerson, director of the Immigration Law Clinic at Albany Law School, won the 2019 M. Shanara Gilbert award, one of the most prestigious recognitions the clinical community gives (Sue Bryant writes beautifully about Professor Gilert, and the award, here). Sarah won for many reasons, but one of the most immediate was her creation and leadership of a network to rapidly respond to family separation in New York State. With her expertise, her tenacity, and a huge well of good will to draw from after many years of working with partners in New York and beyond, Sarah summoned partners ranging from other law schools to the Albany County Sheriff to serve hundreds of affected immigrants in the summer of 2018emphasis on summer, not a time of year clinicians can easily access law students to amplify our efforts. In Sarahs acceptance speech, she shared credit with those other clinicians, and brought the chatty, noisy, large room to a hushed stillness when she shared her meditation on the phrase dum spiro spero,* While I breathe, I hope. While I Breathe, I Hope: Immigration Clinicians in Polarized Times Sarahs meditation manifested itself in the Immigration Clinician gatherings during the conference, in working groups, and in concurrent sessions. As always, the groups reminded us of our shared fights and our shared victories. There was plenty of gallows humor, and also recognition of the many ways that we do keep breathing and hoping. There is a resilience to this community that is deep and inspiring. We discussed the extra challenges our colleagues in under-resourced areas like Louisiana face in handling all the demands created by the injustices that seem to only get larger by the day. We offered concrete suggestions for networks that could help with specific issues or tools. We recognized the clinicians doing great policy and litigation work on important issues that are in the news, and also appreciated the slower, steadier value of teaching our students to be excellent lawyers as they step into the work for themselves. In these times, it can be hard to summon the strength to go back into the ring for another round of fights, and yet we dobecause while we breathe, we hope. Mujeres Unidas y Activas The Clinical Legal Education Association Per Diem Project always designates an organization in our host city to receive funds from the attendees per diems. This year, CLEA raised over $5,000 for Mujeres Unidas y Activas, a San Francisco organization supporting Latina immigrant empowerment and organizing. Maria Jesus de Jimenez spoke of how this group grew from a handful of participants to several hundred women who go on to do trainings, outreach, run support groups, and advocate for justice. Ms. Flores spoke about the host of interconnected issues that affect immigrant women, and provided a powerful example of womens agency in responding to those injustices. Immigration Professors Taking Center Stage Many of the concurrents featured immprofers, as well. The list below captures most of what we collectively did (preemptive apologies to anyone inadvertently left off this list). Pedagogy and Clinic Design Saba Ahmed (UDC), Anne Schaufele (American), and Susannah Volpe (Seton Hall), with the arguably best named concurrent session : I Just Met You, And This is Crazy, But Heres My Number, So Call Me Maybe: Developing Student Attorney-Client Relationships and Communication from Afar (UDC), (American), and (Seton Hall), with the : I Just Met You, And This is Crazy, But Heres My Number, So Call Me Maybe: Developing Student Attorney-Client Relationships and Communication from Afar Cori Alonso-Yoder (American) and Jayesh Rathod (American): Lawyer as Truth Teller? Narrative and Fact Investigation in the Shadow of Alternative Facts (American) and (American): Lawyer as Truth Teller? Narrative and Fact Investigation in the Shadow of Alternative Facts Sameer M. Ashar (UCLA) and Deborah Archer (NYU), Moving Beyond the Traditional Big Case versus Small Case Debate: Embracing Opportunities to Engage Students in Transformational Advocacy (UCLA) and (NYU), Moving Beyond the Traditional Big Case versus Small Case Debate: Embracing Opportunities to Engage Students in Transformational Advocacy Caitlin Barry (Villanova) and Chris Lasch (Denver), Cultivating Empathy as a Crucial Lawyering Skill (Villanova) and (Denver), Cultivating Empathy as a Crucial Lawyering Skill Gillian Chadwick (Washburn), Forging Clinic Collaborations with Non-Legal Partners: How Working Alongside Non-Lawyers Advances Student Learning (Washburn), Forging Clinic Collaborations with Non-Legal Partners: How Working Alongside Non-Lawyers Advances Student Learning Valeria Gomez (U Conn) and Karla McKanders (Vanderbilt), RedBottom Shoe Activism: Privilege, Power, and Pedagogy (U Conn) and (Vanderbilt), RedBottom Shoe Activism: Privilege, Power, and Pedagogy Hemanth Gundavaram (Northeastern) and Emily Robinson (Loyola LA), Prioritizing Learning Outcomes Using Deliberate Immigration Clinic Design (Northeastern) and (Loyola LA), Prioritizing Learning Outcomes Using Deliberate Immigration Clinic Design Jean Han (American), Healing and Reconciliation: The Clinics Role in Re-Imagining Power and Fostering Dignity in a Time of Polarization (American), Healing and Reconciliation: The Clinics Role in Re-Imagining Power and Fostering Dignity in a Time of Polarization Lindsay Harris (UDC), Erica Schommer (St. Marys), Sarah Sherman-Stokes (BU), Cindy Zapata (Harvard), Learning in Baby Jail: Lessons from Law Student Engagement in Immigration Detention Centers (UDC), (St. Marys), (BU), (Harvard), Learning in Baby Jail: Lessons from Law Student Engagement in Immigration Detention Centers Luz E. Herrera (Texas A&M), Annie Lai (UC Irvine), Access to Law and Justice (Texas A&M), (UC Irvine), Access to Law and Justice Liz Keyes (Baltimore), Meeting at the Intersection of Scholarship and Clinical Practice (Baltimore), Meeting at the Intersection of Scholarship and Clinical Practice Hiroko Kusuda (Loyola NoLa) and Michael Vastine (St. Thomas FL), Quickly! Society has Lost its Filter, Should We Teach with One? (Loyola NoLa) and (St. Thomas FL), Quickly! Society has Lost its Filter, Should We Teach with One? Jennifer Lee (Temple) and Ragini Shah (Suffolk), Teaching About Racial and Economic Justice in the Age of Trump (Temple) and (Suffolk), Teaching About Racial and Economic Justice in the Age of Trump Vanessa Merton (Pace), Will Bar Admission Standards Promote Adequate Legal Education in Practice Skills, Professionalism and Values for Tomorrows Lawyers? Lessons from New York (Pace), Will Bar Admission Standards Promote Adequate Legal Education in Practice Skills, Professionalism and Values for Tomorrows Lawyers? Lessons from New York Nickole Miller (Baltimore), Helena Montes (Loyola LA), Emily Torstveit Ngara (Hofstra), Gumming Up the Wheels of Injustice (Baltimore), (Loyola LA), (Hofstra), Gumming Up the Wheels of Injustice Christine Natoli (Hastings) and Elissa C Steglich (Texas), The Learning Legal Interviewing & Language Access Film Project (Hastings) and (Texas), The Learning Legal Interviewing & Language Access Film Project Sarah H. Paoletti (Penn) Teaching Law Students to Address Issues of Race and Privilege as Part of Professional Competence (Penn) Teaching Law Students to Address Issues of Race and Privilege as Part of Professional Competence Michele R. Pistone (Villanova) Using Clinic Case Management Database Systems to Support Access to Justice and Individual Student Learning Outcomes (Villanova) Using Clinic Case Management Database Systems to Support Access to Justice and Individual Student Learning Outcomes Anita Sinha (American), Direct Client Services and Law Reform Clinics Tackling Two Big Jobs Scholarship Julie Dahlstrom (Boston University) (Boston University) Danielle Jefferis (Denver) (Denver) Danielle Kalil (Michigan) (Michigan) Becky Sharpless (Miami) And finally, a shout-out to our fearless cat-herding immigration working group leaders: Debbie Gonzalez (Roger Williams) (Roger Williams) Mary Holper (BC) (BC) Carmen Maria Rey (Brooklyn) (Brooklyn) Linda Tam (UC Irvine) * Sarah self-deprecatingly noted she does not usually meditate on Latin phrases. However, this guest-blogger notes that she reads political philosophy for fun, and perhaps Professor Rogerson is being an unreliable witness. https://lawprofessors.typepad.com/immigration/2019/05/notes-from-the-aals-clinical-conference.html Wednesday, May 8, 2019 An applicant was granted admission by the Tribunal Hearing Division of the Upper Canada Law Society The applicant submitted an application for a lawyer licence on March 1, 2013, while he was in his final year of law school. In the good character section of his application he answered two of the questions in the affirmative and indicated that he would provide an explanation in paper format. On September 30, 2015 he wrote to the Law Society (the good character letter) disclosing that between 2005 and 2009, during his undergraduate studies, he had been found guilty of two assaults and one instance of academic dishonesty. During the Law Societys investigation into the applicants good character, it became apparent that the applicant had also been found guilty of an earlier instance of academic dishonesty while an undergraduate. The question for this panel to determine is whether the applicant is now of good character. Answer is yes notwithstanding the conduct outlined above. The first academic dishonesty matter had been treated as minor; the second, involving allowing another student to cheat by reading his answers, was not In his evidence before us the applicant testified that the incident involved a woman whom he had tutored in the course and who told him that she would fail the exam without his help. She was a beautiful girl, he said, and he thought that maybe she would like him if he let her look over his hand. Afterwards, he could not admit that he had been responsible and tried to blame his professor, thus putting her through the ordeal of having to attend a hearing to give evidence, something that he now is ashamed to have done. Assault One In the summer of 2008, the applicant attended a medical technician course on the Canadian Forces Borden base. During the course, instructors demonstrated various techniques for carrying an injured person. At the end of the course there was a relay race using the piggyback technique. The applicant was paired with a female candidate. The female candidate alleged that, while she was carrying the applicant, she felt her breasts being gripped for a second by the applicant. She threw him off her back and yelled at him. The applicant denied the allegation. The female candidate filed a complaint the same day. The military police charged the applicant with sexual assault under the Criminal Code and alternatively with an act to the prejudice of good order and discipline. The applicant plead not guilty and a trial was held before a court martial. In October 2009 the court martial found the applicant not guilty of sexual assault but guilty of the less serious and included offence of assault contrary to the Criminal Code. It sentenced him to a reprimand and fine of $500. An aggravating factor considered on sentencing was that the victim was in a vulnerable position at the time of the incident and that the applicant had taken advantage of the situation without giving any consideration to her physical or psychological integrity. Assault Two' The final incident took place in April 2009 while the applicant was completing his final course after his suspension from the university. At the time, he was also awaiting trial on his court martial. The applicant was approached by a woman he was acquainted with from the university, who asked if they had met before. She was smiling and conversing with him and he mistakenly thought she was interested in him. The two students were taking the same bus headed towards Downsview. On the bus, the applicant asked her for her phone number and touched her without her consent. This incident led to the applicant being charged with sexual assault. The charges were resolved through a guilty plea to simple assault, based on an agreed statement of facts. The applicant received a conditional discharge and two years probation, which he successfully completed without incident. He later wrote a letter of apology to the victim. The applicants recounting of the details of this incident changed significantly during the course of the Law Societys investigation. In the applicants 2015 good character letter, he stated that he had incorrectly assumed that the female student was flirting with him and tried to hold her hand, while also trying to put his hands around her shoulder. During his interview in May 2016, the applicant acknowledged that he had tried to touch the victims buttocks area and show her forms of Jamaican dances and stuff, as if it is a night club perhaps. In his evidence before us the applicant testified that he asked for the victims telephone number and recalled trying to show her dance moves. He agreed that he had said some things that he is now ashamed of and stated that he feels terrible about the way she would have felt. He also acknowledged that he had touched the victims buttocks without her consent. He testified that he now realizes that he had dominated her and asserted his own will unilaterally. The applicants explanation for this misconduct was that at the time, he had suffered from a lack of emotional awareness and empathy for others; and in particular for this complainant, who was victimized and harmed by his actions. He felt sick about what happened at the time, but described a force in me telling him that he had to make it in Canada and find a girlfriend. He also described his behaviour as vicious, uncivilized and immoral. It was clear from the applicants explanation, and his obvious emotional distress, that he still struggles to find a satisfactory explanation for his behaviour in connection with this incident. The tribunal recounted his rehabilitative efforts and concludes As is so often the case in the Tribunals process, we have to weigh the evidence and the factors we have gleaned from the jurisprudence and apply our collective judgment to a situation which is not black or white but shaded in gray. And, as outlined earlier, certainty is not required. The applicant need only meet his burden on the balance of probabilities. The applicant has come a long way on what must have been a very difficult road for him. He has satisfied us on a number of elements of good character. The remaining concern is with his candour and integrity in connection with the application process. In considering that last concern we quote from a different part of the good character essay the applicant submitted in 2016: Despite being under a lot of stress and psychiatric treatment, I decided to go back to University and complete an education that could help me both in personal as well as professional life. I chose to be a professional and even though it would mean that I had to come in terms with my wrongdoings and correct myself and avoid impulsive behaviours that I made when I was under stress and suffering from depression and at times feelings of not fitting in as a result of growing up with cultural barriers. I have been working on my behaviour ever since, trying to figure out how I can avoid misunderstandings and act ethically at all times especially when helping my clients. Having been through the academic and military tribunals as well as the conditional discharge at a provincial court room has given me the courage to know that I was wrong, that I must be remorseful, that my punishment has been fair, and that I needed sufficient time and the legal education to fit in society and be a productive member of the Ontario legal professionals. These words appear to be heartfelt and are consistent with the applicants evidence before this panel. In them the applicant candidly concedes that he was wrong, that his punishment was fair, and that he continues to work on his shortcomings. In our view, on balance, the applicant has shown sufficient candour and insight to give us comfort that he is now ready to be a professional and that he understands and will meet his professional obligations. The application is allowed. We would like to consider whether we need to impose any conditions on the applicants licence, given the unusual circumstances of his current arrangements with Ms. Noohis office. Although we asked for and received written submissions from the parties on this issue, we would like to hear brief oral submissions as well. We also would like to hear brief oral submissions on costs, at the same time. The Tribunal Office will be in touch with the parties to arrange an appropriate date. (Mike Frisch) https://lawprofessors.typepad.com/legal_profession/2019/05/an-applicant-was-granted-admission-by-the-tribunal-hearing-division-of-the-upper-canada-law-society-the-applicant-submitted.html The towns of Sandton and Alexandra tell a painful story about inequality in South Africa. The towns sit side-by-side outside the city of Johannesburg. But while one town is extremely rich, the other is extremely poor. Sandton is known as Africas richest square mile. It has tall, shiny buildings and wealthy properties. Beside it, Alexandra also called Alex is a crowded black township that suffers from heavy crime. Alex was once the home of Nelson Mandela. Even the air in Sandton feels different says activist Thembeni Manana. She notes that many people travel from Alexandra to Sandton every day to work in its shops and homes. In Sandton the air feels fresh, she says, as if people were using their air conditioners outside. But in Alex, she says, the air smells like waste and rats. Angry protests took place in Alexandra in April, in part the result of campaigning for this weeks national election. But the protesters main criticism was not about the candidates. It was that South Africa should be far less unequal than it is now. Unemployment in the country of 56 million people has risen past 25 percent. There are tire-burning protests almost every day over the lack of basic services in mostly black neighborhoods. Whites still control much of the wealth, while blacks cut their grass and clean their homes. Fazila Farouk and Murray Leibbrandt are with the Southern Africa Labor and Development Research Unit at the University of Cape Town. Last year, they wrote that they found no whites living below the middle class. Instead, whites have improved their economic states since apartheid because South Africas economy sends such a large part of its national income to the top 10 percent. Farouk and Leibbrandt wrote that half of South Africans are in homes with per capita earnings of 1,149 rand ($90) or less a month. And they have little chance to change this situation even though they work hard as security guards or housekeepers. Thembeni Manana knows the feeling well. The 28-year-old activist works with the Greater Alexandra Chamber of Commerce. Manana helped plan last months protests. With us, we decided enough is enough. We want to challenge the system, she said. Manana presented a list of demands, including that: Schools in Alexandra should have 30 children for each teacher instead of 70. Street sellers should be permitted to supply their products to food stores. This would help them take part in the larger economy. Children should be able to grow up in homes with more than one room so family members have privacy. Criticisms like those discussed by Manana are not limited to Alexandra but exist in many of South Africas black townships. And this weeks election likely will show how tired the public is of asking again and again for change. South Africa was once famous for its long lines of voters in the first democratic election 25 years ago, but that has changed. I think people are just tired of voting, Manana said. She said voters see that political parties are only out to play during election time but then disappear until the next election. Im Kelly Jean Kelly. Cara Anna wrote this story for the Associated Press. Alice Bryant adapted it for Learning English. Kelly Jean Kelly was the editor. ______________________________________________________________ Words in This Story square mile n. a unit of measure for an area equal to the area of a square with each side length of one standard mile township n. often underdeveloped racially segregated areas that, from the late 19th century until the end of apartheid, were reserved for non-whites air conditioner n. a machine that is used to cool and dry the air in a building or room tire n. a rubber ring that usually contains air and that fits around the wheel of a vehicle, such as a car or bike per capita adj. by or for each person challenge v. to question the action or authority of someone Google has announced new privacy tools designed to help protect personal data. It has also launched a much lower-cost Pixel phone. The announcements came on the first day of Googles I/O 2019 conference in Mountain View, California. Google officials said the new privacy tools would be added to many of the companys products. The changes come after Google and other major technology companies have faced repeated calls from privacy groups and lawmakers to take measures to protect user data. Google CEO Sundar Pichai opened the conference by noting that Google was seeking to keep up with evolving user expectations on privacy. One privacy change will extend Googles existing incognito mode to its Google Maps and Google search apps later this year. The company says that, when activated, incognito blocks user searches or movements from being stored by Google. Incognito mode has been available in Google Chrome and YouTube for quite some time. The company also announced a new version of its Android phone operating system called Android Q. Google says the new version will give users more controls over restricting how different mobile apps save information like location data. Android product director Stephanie Cutherbertson said at the conference that the release of Android Q is aimed at protecting security and privacy. She said location data recorded by mobile apps is some of your most personal information. Google has been criticized in the past for making it difficult for users to block location tracking. In 2018, an Associated Press investigation found that Google continued storing location data even when users turned off a location history setting on Android phones. Google also announced new privacy tools for its home-based devices. Such systems use voice activation and machine learning to answer human questions and perform user requests. The company launched a new website to explain how sensors used with these systems activate video and audio recording. Google says users now have the ability to listen to any recordings the systems make and to clear them at any time. The company also said it would not use video footage, audio recordings or other sensor readings to target users with advertisements. After the announcements, some critics said they still do not think Google is doing enough in efforts to protect user privacy. They noted that the company makes billions of dollars each year by selling ads targeted at the interests users show through their search requests and data collected by Google apps and services. Theyre sort of marginal improvements, said Jeremy Tillman, head of Ghostery, a company that makes internet ad-blocking products. They are not bad, but they almost seem like theyre designed to give the company a better messaging push instead of making wholesale improvements to user privacy. Marc Rotenberg is president of the Electronic Privacy Information Center. He said he believes Googles privacy measures are too weak. Unless the Federal Trade Commission is prepared to bring enforcement actions against companies, these promises to protect privacy matter very little, Rotenberg said. Also at the conference, Google announced the launch of its lowest-priced smartphone yet the Pixel 3a. The phone comes in two sizes, with the smaller one priced at $399. The previous version of the device, the Pixel 3, sells for $799. The company also announced new features for its machine learning-powered Google Assistant. In the coming months, the Assistant will gain the ability to complete a series of steps to carry out some internet processes on its own. In a demonstration, Assistant was able to fully complete entire travel bookings and buy movie tickets by itself. A similar Android system received a lot of attention at last years conference when it used a machine-generated voice to set a haircut appointment on its own. Im Bryan Lynn. Bryan Lynn wrote this story for VOA Learning English based on reports from Google, the Associated Press and Reuters. Ashley Thompson was the editor. We want to hear from you. Write to us in the Comments section, and visit our Facebook page. Quiz - Google Announces New Privacy Tools Start the Quiz to find out Start Quiz _____________________________________________________________ Words in This Story data n. information or facts about something evolve v. to develop or make something develop app n. a computer program that can be put onto a mobile phone or some other electronic device location n. a place or position track v. to follow the track or traces of something marginal adj. small and not important wholesale adj. complete or affecting a lot of things, people, places, etc. Iran threatened Wednesday to restart enriching uranium in 60 days if world powers fail to negotiate new terms for the 2015 nuclear agreement. In a televised speech, President Hassan Rouhani also said that Iran would stop exporting extra uranium and heavy water from its nuclear program. The export of heavy water and extra uranium were requirements of the deal. Enriched uranium can be used to make nuclear weapons. Heavy water is used to cool nuclear reactors. Rouhani did not explain how much uranium it would enrich. One year ago, U.S. President Donald Trump withdrew from the agreement. China, Russia and European nations are still part of the deal, however. After the United States withdrew from the deal, it put strong sanctions on Iran. The move caused a severe economic crisis. Rouhani said Iran wanted to negotiate new terms for the deal with remaining partners. He wants new terms to permit Iran to sell its oil, which it currently cannot do because of the U.S. sanctions. Rouhani also warned of a strong reaction if European leaders try to put more sanctions on Iran through the U.N. Security Council. He did not explain what a strong reaction might be. Rouhani also said that Iran wants action within 60 days. If there is no action, Iran will stop a Chinese-led effort to redesign its Arak heavy water nuclear reactor. Such reactors produce plutonium, which can be used in nuclear weapons. U. S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Wednesday was meeting with British Prime Minister Theresa May and Foreign Minister Jeremy Hunt for talks before Trumps visit to Britain next month. Pompeo told reporters the United States would decide how to answer Iran after Iran takes action. Hunt said on Wednesday the agreement remained an important achievement and urged Tehran to think before breaking it. He said Britain and the United States agreed that Iran should never be permitted to have a nuclear weapon. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov welcomed Tehrans Foreign Minister Javad Zarif for talks on Wednesday in Moscow. Following the meeting, both countries condemned the United States for leaving the deal a year ago, a move they say caused the current problems. Zarif gave his own warning from Moscow. After a year of patience, Iran stops measures that (the) US has made impossible to continue, he wrote on Twitter. The 2015 nuclear deal lifted economic sanctions on Iran in exchange for limits on its nuclear program. Iran reached the deal after years of negotiations that included secret talks in Oman between Iran and the administration of former U.S. President Barack Obama. Western governments had long feared Irans nuclear program could lead to the development of nuclear weapons. Iran has always said its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes. The United States left the deal after Trump campaigned on a promise to end the agreement. His administration says the deal should have put limits on Irans ballistic missile program. It also believes the deal did nothing to end Tehrans efforts to influence Iraq and other countries in the area. There is still hope for the deal. Iran did not walk away from it, but instead chose to stop exporting its extra uranium and heavy water. Observers say that means there is still the possibility for an agreement to be reached. Under the 2015 deal, Iran cannot keep more than 300 kilograms of low-enriched uranium and 130 tons of heavy water. By comparison, the country used to possess 10,000 kilograms of higher-enriched uranium. Im Susan Shand. The Associated Press and the Reuters News Agency reported this story. Susan Shand adapted it for VOA Learning English. Ashley Thompson was the editor. Write to us in the Comments Section or on our Facebook page. _______________________________________________________________ Words in This Story uranium n. a radioactive element that is used to make nuclear energy and nuclear weapons sanctions n. an action that is taken or an order that is given to force a country to obey international laws by limiting or stopping trade with that country, by not allowing economic aid for that country, plutonium n. a radioactive element that is used to make nuclear energy and nuclear weapons patience n. the ability to wait for a long time without becoming annoyed or upset ballistic missile n. a weapon that is shot through the sky over a great distance and then falls to the ground and explode Hameed Rafi says he will never forget the day he got to speak about the suicide bombing that killed his 18-year-old sister. He shared his story in March as part of a panel discussion at the Afghanistan Center for Memory and Dialogue. All of those wounded in the attack were taken to hospitals in and around Kabul, Rafi told people attending the discussion. He first began searching lists of the wounded that hung on hospital walls. But he could not find his sisters name, Rahila. Then, a doctor suggested Rafi also search lists of those killed. That shocked me," he said. "I had never considered that my sister wouldnt be alive anymore. As he later learned, Rahila had died in the attack. She was studying in an education center for her college entrance exam when the bomb exploded. Rafis chance to share his story is at the heart of the memory centers mission. The center was launched in February and is a project of the Afghanistan Human Rights and Democracy Organization. It seeks to protect and share memories and stories of civilian victims of the countrys 40 years of war. The center is in the lower level of a rented house in west Kabul. Special exhibits remind visitors of the years of destruction and loss. On display are clothes and pictures, along with personal information about victims, such as their names and the causes of their death or injury. But the center is also a safe space for family and friends of civilian victims like Rafi, who can share their stories and keep the memories of their loved ones. Afghanistan has experienced 40 years of continuous wars. The center has divided the conflict into periods. It starts with the former communist administration from 1978-1992, which led to the 1979 invasion by Soviet forces to support the government. That period was followed by the civil war in the Islamic State of Afghanistan, which lasted from 1992 to 1996. During these years, competing militias fought against each other for power. In Kabul alone, 50,000 people died. Many of the leaders of those militias were returned to power by the international community in 2001. The Taliban ruled the country from 1996 to 2001. The years from 2002 to present day represent the current period that followed the collapse of Taliban rule. More than 2 million Afghan civilians are estimated to have died in the fighting between 1978 and 2001. Thousands more have been killed or hurt over the past 17 years, since the United States-led NATO intervention. The memory center grew from the idea of memory boxes. Family members would take favorite possessions of victims and put them in boxes of different sizes and materials. As family members met other victims family and friends, they began to exchange stories. The center later asked survivors to write letters to their lost loved ones and to the larger Afghan community to let people know about their pain. This took place over about eight years. During that time, hundreds of memory boxes were created. They held more than 4,000 personal objects and stories. Visitors see in one exhibit a Barbie doll and a makeup table. These playthings belonged to a young girl named Saima. She was killed in a suicide car bombing near the former parliament building in April 2015. In another area, a wristwatch still shows the time for visitors, but not its owner, who is unidentified. The watch belonged to the victim of a suicide bombing attack in Kabul that killed and wounded many. Center organizers were unsure of the date of that attack. Unfortunately, in Afghanistan there was not a policy of remembrance for thousands of war victims... said Hadi Marifat, the human rights organizations director. He said the center serves as a place for survivors and victims families to come...share their stories and toget acknowledgement, which isimportant in a context like Afghanistan. Rafis sister was one of 50 students killed in the Islamic State groups suicide attack on the Mawood Educational Center in western Kabul. When Rafi returned home after Rahilas burial, he went through her diary. He discovered her love for books and education. In one of her diary entries, Rahila wrote that education is the only way out of the crisis in Afghanistan. After reading his sisters writings, Rafi decided to open a library in west Kabul -- not far from where Rahila lost her life. The Rahila Library has more than 7,000 books with a separate reading space for visitors. So far, more than 4,000 people have visited the library since it opened last October. Rafi said, We lost Rahila, but we hope Rahilas name and kindness will be remembered by people through this library. Im Jonathan Evans. And I'm Ashley Thompson. The Associated Press reported this story. Ashley Thompson adapted it for VOA Learning English. George Grow was the editor. _____________________________________________________________ Words in This Story panel - n. a group of people who answer questions, give advice or opinions about something, or take part in a discussion for an audience rented - v. to pay money in return for being able to use (something that belongs to someone else) exhibit - n. an object or a collection of objects that have been put out in a public space for people to look at display - n. an arrangement of objects intended to decorate, advertise, entertain, or inform people about something wristwatch - n. a watch that you wear on a strap or band around your wrist context - n. the situation in which something happens : the group of conditions that exist where and when something happens diary - n. a book in which you write down your personal experiences and thoughts each day library - n. a place where books, magazines, and other materials (such as videos and musical recordings) are available for people to use or borrow American President Donald Trump has declared executive privilege to hide parts of a Special Counsel report from Congress. The report is the findings of an investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 U.S. presidential election. On Wednesday, Assistant Attorney General Stephen Boyd sent a letter to Representative Jerrold Nadler, chair of the House Judiciary Committee. It said: This is to advise you that the President has asserted executive privilege over the entirety of the subpoenaed materials. Boyd wrote that the action was necessary. He said it was the result of the committees plan to hold a vote advising that Attorney General William Barr be declared in contempt of Congress. Nadler called the Presidents action unprecedented obstruction. He said, As a co-equal branch of government, we must have access to the materials that we need to fulfill our constitutional responsibilities... The House Judiciary Committee then voted to hold Barr in contempt of Congress. The full House is expected to vote on the measure at a later date. Last month, Barr released parts of the Mueller report. Those parts described many contacts between the Trump campaign and Russia. However, another part said, the evidence was not sufficient to support criminal charges. It also examined about 10 actions by the president related to the obstruction of justice investigation. The special counsel noted, while this report does not conclude that the President committed a crime, it also does not exonerate him. The 448-page report included redactions that Barr said are necessary to protect grand jury information, intelligence secrets, ongoing investigations and the privacy rights of others. Nadler and Democratic Party leaders in the House said they want to see the full report and all related evidence. Barr has so far refused the request. Executive privilege vs. Congressional subpoena power Neither executive privilege nor congressional subpoena power are noted in the U.S. Constitution. But the third branch of government, the judiciary branch, has long affirmed both measures in its rulings. In the 1920s, the U.S. Supreme Court established that Congress has very broad power to investigate and get information, as part of its legislative operations. The rulings came while the Senate was investigating government corruption in what came to be known as the Teapot Dome scandal. The U.S. governments Congressional Research Service notes that Congress can issue subpoenas to force requests for information. The CRS also says Congress can hold people in contempt who refuse such requests. American presidents since George Washington have claimed executive privilege to keep information from Congress. After a failed military operation against Native Americans in 1791, President Washington refused to provide Congress documents and information linked to the action. Washington claimed at the time he had the right to withhold the information because it was in the public interest. President Dwight Eisenhower was the first American president to use the term executive privilege. Eisenhower even declared that executive privilege belonged to the entire executive branch. He used the power 44 times. In April 1974, President Richard Nixon asserted executive privilege to refuse to release tape recordings made in the Oval Office. Nixons lawyer argued only the president could decide when and how to use the privilege. The U.S. Supreme Court rejected that argument. Nixon resigned shortly after in what became known as the Watergate Scandal. More importantly, the Supreme Court ruled for the first time that executive privilege was constitutional but only to the extent that [it] relates to the effective discharge of the presidents powers. Whats Next Trump has said that his administration is fighting all the subpoenas. His assertion of executive privilege is likely the first of many to come as House leaders are using subpoena power to learn more about the Mueller report and to get Trumps personal and financial documents. A contempt of Congress vote from the full House against Barr would mean that he could go to jail for up to 12 months. But Congress would have to send the case to Justice Department lawyers who are unlikely to act against their own supervisor. Im Ashley Thompson. Hai Do wrote this story for Learning English. Caty Weaver was the editor. ______________________________________________________________ Words in This Story assert - v. to state in a strong and definite way subpoena - n. a written order that commands someone to appear in Congress (or court) to give evidence contempt - n. behavior that does not show proper respect to Congress (or the court) access - n. a way of getting to something sufficient - adj. providing as much as needed conclude - v. to form or state an opinion exonerate - v. to prove that someone is not guilty of a crime redaction - n. writings removed prior to publication scandal - n. an occurrence in which people are shocked and upset because of behavior that is morally or legally wrong Go online to find the complete version of the Movie Scene and reviews of new films. NEW AMAZING GRACE 4 stars (Documentary, G, 89 minutes, playing at the Darkside in Corvallis) A young director named Sydney Pollack recorded this documentary over the two days in 1972 when Aretha Franklin recorded her gospel album, Amazing Grace. The film was unreleased for years, for various reasons, but its finally out, and its an unmitigated joy, the rare making-of documentary that doesn't just comment on but completely merges with its subject. (Justin Chang, Los Angeles Times) HAIL SATAN? 3 stars (Documentary, R, 95 minutes, playing at the Darkside in Corvallis) Director Penny Lanes offbeat and actually somewhat charming film documents the lives and times of members of the young and growing Satans Temple organization. Its not a mean-spirited affair; instead, its a sly primer in homegrown grassroots activism. (Michael Phillips, Chicago Tribune) THE HUSTLE (Comedy, PG-13, 103 minutes, playing at the Regal 7 in Albany and the AMC Corvallis 12) Anne Hathaway and Rebel Wilson play con women who join forces for revenge. Written by Stanley Shapiro, Paul Henning, Dale Launer, Jac Schaeffer; story by Shapiro, Henning, Launer. Directed by Chris Addison. POKEMON DETECTIVE PIKACHU 2 stars (Animated adventure, PG, 104 minutes, playing at the Regal 7 and Pix in Albany, the Regal 4 in Corvallis and the AMC Corvallis 12) Ryan Reynolds provides the voice of the fuzzy yellow electrical Pokemon in this mix of live-action and animation, and its a surprising amount of fun until it bogs down in an incomprehensible plot. (Katie Walsh, Tribune News Service) POMS (Comedy, PG-13, 91 minutes, playing at the Regal Albany 7 and the Corvallis AMC 12) Diane Keaton stars as a woman who starts a cheer squad at a retirement home. With Jacki Weaver, Pam Grier, Celia Weston, Rhea Perlman. Written by Shane Atkinson; story by Atkinson, Zara Hayes. Directed by Hayes. RED JOAN 2 stars (Spy biography, R, 101 minutes, playing at the Darkside in Corvallis) In a criminal waste of her talent, Dame Judi Dench plays a British matron accused of spying for the Russians in a story told mostly in flashback, with Sophie Cookson playing her younger self. It's almost fascinating how stultifying this movie is, given the premise, but "Red Joan" is a soapy, clumsy, maddeningly simplistic mess. (Richard Roeper, Chicago Sun-Times) SUNSET 3 stars (Foreign drama, R, 144 minutes, playing at the Darkside in Corvallis) Often confounding yet beautifully made, Hungarian director Laszlo Nemes' follow-up to his Oscar-winning "Son of Saul" (2015) is an implacably sinister portrait of a determined young woman searching for answers in Budapest on the eve of World War I. (Justin Chang, Los Angeles Times) TOLKIEN 2 stars (Biography, PG-13, 111 minutes, playing at the AMC Corvallis 12) This freewheeling version of how author J.R.R. Tolkien (Nicholas Hoult) found love early with his fellow orphan Edith Bratt (Lily Collins) struggles to find its rhythm and builds to a preposterous climax. Its hokum. (Michael Phillips, Chicago Tribune) THE STRANGE LOVE OF MARTHA IVERS (Drama, 116 minutes, showing at 7 p.m. Tuesday, May 14 at the Darkside in Corvallis) The Darksides deep dive into film noir continues with this 1946 flick, in which Martha (Barbara Stanwyck) and her husband (Kirk Douglas, in his first film) fear that a childhood friend (Van Heflin) saw her kill her aunt. CONTINUING LONG SHOT 3 stars (Comedy, R, 123 minutes, playing at the Regal 7 in Albany and the AMC Corvallis 12) Seth Rogen and Charlize Theron star as a journalist and a politician, respectively, who embark on an unconventional romance amid a presidential campaign. Rogen and Theron are well-matched in this appealing outing, boosted considerably by a smart script. With O'Shea Jackson Jr., Andy Serkis, June Diane Raphael, Bob Odenkirk, Alexander Skarsgard. (Katie Walsh, Tribune News Service) UGLYDOLLS (Animated, PG, 87 minutes, playing at the Regal 7 in Albany, the Regal 4 in Corvallis and the AMC Corvallis 12) The plush toys break out in song in their own animated musical adventure. With voices of Kelly Clarkson, Nick Jonas, Janelle Monae, Blake Shelton, Wanda Sykes, Gabriel Iglesias, Bebe Rexha, Charli XCX, Lizzo, Wang Leehom, Emma Roberts, Pitbull. Written by Alison Peck; story by Robert Rodriguez. Directed by Kelly Asbury. AVENGERS: ENDGAME 3 stars (Superhero action, PG-13, 182 minutes, playing at the Albany Regal 7, the Corvallis Regal 4 and the AMC Corvallis 12) The remaining Avengers, with some new faces (such as Brie Larsons Captain Marvel) go after Thanos in this sequel to Infinity War and apparent capstone to the first wave of Marvel movies. Its a stirring and satisfying finish that achieves and earns its climactic surge of feeling, even as it falls just short of real catharsis. (Justin Chang, Los Angeles Times) BREAKTHROUGH 2 stars (Drama, PG, 116 minutes, playing at the Regal 7 in Albany and the AMC Corvallis 12) Chrissy Metz of This is Us delivers a powerful, realistic performance in this faith-based feature, based on a true story, about a mother whose adopted son suffers a catastrophic accident. Josh Lucas and Topher Grace also star. (Katie Walsh, Tribune Media Service) THE CURSE OF LA LLORONA 1 stars (Horror, R, 93 minutes, playing at the Regal 4 in Corvallis) A hissing, pasty-faced zombie-ghost targets the children of a social worker (Linda Cardellini) in the latest addition to the Conjuring Universe. But any hopes of a creepy horror gem are dashed by the overacting, clumsy plot machinations and cliche-riddled "Gotcha!" moments. (Richard Roeper, Chicago Sun-Times) PENGUINS 3 stars (Documentary, G, 76 minutes, playing at the AMC Corvallis 12) The latest Disneynature effort follows a 5-year-old Adelie penguin (Steve, the movie calls him) as he finds a mate, raises the chicks and deals with life in Antarctica. Its quite good for its type, with some beautiful photography. (Michael Phillips, Chicago Tribune) SHAZAM! 3 stars (Superhero action, PG-13, 132 minutes, playing at the AMC Corvallis 12) A streetwise 14-year-old can magically transform into an adult superhero simply by shouting out one word in this big-screen version of a long-running DC comic book. Zachary Levi brings a jolt of good humor and energy to this good-natured and endearing flick, which has a bit of a dark side as well. Mark Strong is the villain. (Katie Walsh, Tribune News Service) CAPTAIN MARVEL 3 stars (Superhero action, PG-13, 124 minutes, playing at the AMC Corvallis 12) Brie Larson, as the Captain, and Samuel L. Jackson, as young Nick Fury, share great chemistry in a superhero origins story set to '90s hits and filled with fun cultural references. This isn't the greatest Marvel movie ever made, but it's definitely one of the funniest, and one of the sweetest. (Richard Roeper, Chicago Sun-Times) Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Staying in? We've got you covered Get the recommendations on what's streaming now, games you'll love, TV news and more with our weekly Home Entertainment newsletter! Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Is the Oregon State University Guitar Ensemble a group of musicians who perform together on stage or a group of musicians who learn together i From December 19th through December 26th we will be granting free access as a gift to our readers presented by Western Interlock Bruce Sams is no stranger to fighting for his life and fighting to save others lives. As a McMinnville firefighter, its right there in his j After releasing a series of 7 inch mini-laptops with touchscreen displays and convertible tablet-style designs, One Netbook plans to go big with its next model. Well, a little bigger anyway. The upcoming One Mix 3 is a convertible notebook with an 8.4 inch display. The company revealed most key specs a few weeks ago, so we already knew to expect an Intel Core m3-8100Y Amber Lake processor, 8GB of RAM, and at least 256GB of storage. But at the time the company only provided a few pictures, so it wasnt entirely clear what the One Mix 3 actually looked like. Now a new set of pictures helps flesh out the picture. The One Mix 3 measures about 8 x 5.1 x 0.6 so theres not exactly room for a full-sized keyboard. But it does look like One Netbook did tweak the keyboard layout a bit for the new model. Compared with the One Mix 2S Yoga that I reviewed last year, the One Mix 3 seems to have a little more space between the punctuation keys, the optical touch sensor is now below the space bar instead of in the middle of it, and the Tab key has been moved so the number keys are shifted to the left a bit. I cant really tell from the pictures if the new model will be easier to touch type on, but Im looking forward to trying out the mini laptop in person to find out. It does look like One Netbook plans to offer at least two color options though: black and white. The One Mix 3 features an 8.4 inch, 2560 x 1600 pixel touchscreen display with support for a pressure-sensitive digital pen, 8GB of LPDDR3 RAM, up to 512GB of PCIe NVMe solid state storage, an 8,600 mAh battery, a backlit keyboard, a USB Type-C port, a microSD card reader, and a fingerprint sensor. It also has an M.2 2242 slot that the company says can be used for a second SSD or a 4G LTE module . Update: Scratch that LTE module support. One Netbook isnt officially supporting it, and while you could theoretically put a modem in that slot, theres no SIM card reader or antenna. One Netbook has also released a set of images showing several popular smartphones on top of the One Mix 3 to help you get an idea of the laptops size (Its bigger than a Samsung Galaxy Note 9, but still smaller than most laptops on the market). The little laptop weighs about 1.5 pounds. Theres still no word on the price, but One Netbook plans to release the laptop soon. Update: One Netbook says the One Mix 3 will go up for pre-order May 16th. Update 5/13/2019: Even more photos and a video: via One Netbook (FB) and One Netbook (Discord) The Chinese diaspora in Australia, long regarded as a politically apathetic ethnic minority, are being wooed like never before by political parties who see them as key to winning crucial seats that could decide next weeks general election. China has become one of Australias largest sources of immigrants. Both Prime Minister Scott Morrison and opposition leader Bill Shorten have opened WeChat accounts to reach large Chinese populations in big cities with political messages. The opposition center-left Labor Party has cried foul over some of that engagement, complaining to WeChats owner Tencent that Chinas largest social media platform with 1 billion monthly users is being exploited by opponents who generate fake news. Morrison yesterday denied his conservative Liberal Party was behind misleading WeChat posts and doctored accounts that target Labor policies on refugees, taxes and the economy. Thats not the Liberal Partys campaign, Morrison told reporters. People should be up front and candid about their policies. Thats what were doing. An extraordinary feature of the Australian political system is that voting is compulsory. So ethnic minorities turn out to vote to avoid a fine even if they are not politically engaged. Maree Ma is the general manager of independent Australia-based newspaper Vision China Times, which has 500,000 readers across five Australian cities who are mostly immigrants from China. Ma said her readers were responding to the political messaging and are really quite engaged. Historically, I would say a lot of our readers dont really care too much about the federal election, people dont know the candidate and theres not that many Chinese candidates. But this time around, what weve found is people are very interested in this particular federal election, Ma said. Wanning Sun, a professor at the University of Technology Sydneys Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, said WeChat had become far more important than traditional media to Australian politicians attempting to reach Chinese-Australian voters. To put it bluntly, they actually realize that it is a platform they cant afford not to use, Sun said. The challenge for them is, A, how to use it effectively and, B, how to stop yourself being shafted on WeChat by the opposition. Its getting quite dirty out there. She said Labor had learned a lesson from how the Liberals very aggressively and effectively used WeChat to campaign in the east Melbourne seat of Chisholm in the last election in 2016. The government lost 14 seats in that election and Chisholm was the only seat that the Liberals won from Labor. The Labor and Liberal parties are pitting two Chinese-Australian candidates against each other in Chisholm in the May 18 election. Either Liberal candidate Gladys Lui or Labor candidate Jennifer Yang is likely to become the first Chinese-Australian woman to be elected to Australias House of Representatives. Labor lawmaker Penny Wong on Tuesday blamed the Liberal Party for fake campaign news on WeChat. Our message to the prime minister is this: This is not what we do in Australia. We have robust political debates. We dont have major political parties engaging in fake news on this media platform or any other media platform, Wong said. Mining billionaire Clive Palmer is a political party leader who is trying to exploit Australian concerns about Chinese investment. His United Australia Party has entered into a vote-swap deal with the Liberal Party that improves both parties chances of winning House seats. Im opposed to the Chinese because theyre trying to invade our country, destroy our industries and take things over, Palmer told Australian Broadcasting Corp. yesterday. Palmer is seen as having a strong chance to win a Senate seat after spending tens of millions of dollars of his own money on political advertising. Ma said the most important election issues for her readers were the economy and Australias relationship with China, its biggest trading partner. Chinese immigrants had traditionally favored Labor, she said. A Labor-led government gave diplomatic recognition to the Peoples Republic of China in 1972, seven years before the United States took the same step. A Labor government also allowed 20,000 Chinese students to stay in Australia permanently after the Chinese military killed student protesters in Tiananmen Square in Beijing in 1989. But Ma said Chinese voter support seemed to be shifting toward the conservatives. Opinion polls suggest Labor will win the election.Rod McGuirk, Canberra, AP A court in northwestern Cambodia has summoned for questioning more than two dozen regional members of the defunct opposition Cambodian National Rescue Party, accusing them of engaging in politics even though their party was dissolved by the Supreme Court a year and a half ago. The action was criticized yesterday by New York-based Human Rights Watch, which called for the court in Battambang province to cease such actions immediately. The Cambodian government continues to harass numerous opposition officials in the courts and to threaten them with prison time long after the main opposition party was unjustifiably disbanded, Brad Adams, Asia director at Human Rights Watch, said in an emailed statement. The government should immediately end the political harassment campaign against the CNRP and drop this latest batch of absurd court cases. The Supreme Court on Nov. 16, 2017, ordered the opposition party dissolved on the unsupported pretext that it conspired with the United States to overthrow Prime Minister Hun Sens government, a move seen as a government effort to ensure it won last Julys general election. Hun Sens ruling Cambodian Peoples Party ended up sweeping all 125 National Assembly seats. Because they considered the elections neither free nor fair, some Western nations applied diplomatic sanctions against Hun Sens government. The European Union has set in motion a process to withdraw special trade privileges from Cambodia unless it takes measure to improve civil and human rights. Hun Sen has decried these actions and blamed the opposition for encouraging them instead of reconciling with him. The courts ruling also banned 118 senior members of the CNRP from political activity for five years, but did not include any of the 26 people summoned in Battambang, who mainly were local officials who just had to leave their jobs. However, the summons issued by Battambang provincial court prosecutor Ky Bunnara accuses those who have been called in for meetings over the next few weeks of acting against the Supreme Court ruling. More senior party members have faced tougher action. The Phnom Penh Municipal Court has issued arrest warrants for eight leading members of the CNRP in exile on charges of conspiring to commit treason and incitement to commit a felony. All eight leaders left Cambodia ahead of the July 2018 election after a widespread crackdown on the political opposition, independent media and nongovernmental organizations. Party co-founder and former co-leader Sam Rainsy has a stack of convictions and charges against him, all of which he and his supporters say are politically inspired. He has stayed abroad since late 2015 to avoid going to prison. The partys co-founder, Kem Sokha, was arrested in September 2017 on treason charges. AP The sound of doctors boring through his skull to feed electrodes deep into his brain made Yan tremble. The drill was like bzzzzzzz, he later recalled. The moment of drilling is the most terrible. Yan has been using methamphetamine since 2011. The hope is that technology will extinguish his addiction quite literally, with the flip of a switch. The treatment deep brain stimulation has long been used for movement disorders like Parkinsons. Now, the first clinical trial of DBS for methamphetamine addiction is being conducted at Shanghais Ruijin Hospital, along with trials for opioid addiction. Yan is the studys first patient; for fear of losing his job, he asked that only his surname be published. Western attempts to push forward with human trials of deep brain stimulation for drug addiction have foundered, even as China has emerged as a hub for this kind of research. But the vast suffering wrought by the U.S. opioid epidemic may be changing the risk-reward calculus for doctors and regulators. Now, the experimental surgery Yan underwent is coming to America. In February, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration greenlighted a clinical trial in West Virginia of DBS for opioid addiction. Until now, complex ethical, social and scientific questions made it hard to push forward with such experiments in the United States, where the devices can cost $100,000 to implant. Scientists in Europe have struggled to recruit patients for their DBS addiction studies. Globally, there are eight registered DBS clinical trials for drug addiction, according to a U.S. National Institutes of Health database. Six are in China. China has a long, troubled history of using brain surgery to treat addiction. Doctors destroyed small clumps of tissue in the brains of heroin users, garnering huge profits and leaving behind a trail of patients with mood disorders, lost memories and altered sex drives. In 2004, Chinas Ministry of Health ordered a halt to the practice at most hospitals. Nine years later, a military hospital in Xian reported that roughly half of 1,167 patients who had their brains lesioned stayed off drugs for at least five years. DBS builds on that history. The surgery involves implanting a device that acts as a kind of pacemaker for the brain, electrically stimulating targeted areas. Instead of irreversibly killing brain cells, the devices allow interventions that are in theory reversible. The technology has opened a fresh field of human experimentation globally. For many other psychiatric disorders, for example, anorexia schizophrenia, OCD, theres no way to use the animal to be like a model, said Dr. Sun Bomin, director of the functional neurosurgery center at Ruijin Hospital. For these kinds of special psychiatric disorders we have to use human patients. Some believe such human experiments for drug addiction should not be allowed. Critics argue that they are premature, and will not address the complex biological, social and psychological factors that drive addiction. Scientists dont fully understand how DBS works and there is still debate about where electrodes should be placed to treat addiction. There is also skepticism in the global scientific community about the general quality and ethical rigor of clinical trials done in China. It would be fantastic if there were something where we could flip a switch, but its probably fanciful at this stage, said Adrian Carter, who heads the neuroscience and society group at Monash University in Melbourne. Theres a lot of risks that go with promoting that idea. Meanwhile, the body count from addiction is rising. More than 500,000 Americans died of drug overdoses in the decade ending in 2017, adding urgency to the search for new, more effective treatments. But research for DBS as an addiction treatment funded by the U.S. National Institutes of Health has focused on animals, not people. And at least two U.S. laboratories dropped clinical trials of DBS for treating alcoholism over concerns about study design and preliminary results that didnt seem to justify the risks, investigators who led the studies told The Associated Press. The lack of scientific clarity, the important but strict regulatory regime, along with the high cost and risk of surgery make clinical trials of DBS for addiction in the U.S. difficult at the present time, said Dr. Emad Eskandar, chairman of neurological surgery at Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York. Chinas studies have offered mixed results. Sun and his colleagues have published one case study, describing a patient who used heroin and fatally overdosed after getting DBS. But a separate pilot study published in January by doctors at a military hospital in Xian showed that five of eight heroin users stayed off drugs for two years after DBS surgery. Based on those results, the Chinese deep brain stimulation device manufacturer SceneRay Corp. is seeking Chinese regulatory approval of its DBS device for opioid addiction, and funding a clinical trial targeting 60 participants. SceneRay chairman Ning Yihua said his application for a clinical trial in the U.S. was blocked by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. But in February, the FDA greenlighted a small, separate trial of DBS for opioid use disorder. The study lead, Dr. Ali Rezai, director of the West Virginia University Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute, hopes to launch the trial in June. People are dying, Rezai said. Their lives are devastated. Its a brain issue. We need to explore all options. Yan is among those whose lives have been ravaged. Years of drug use cost him his wife, his money and his self-respect, before landing him at Ruijin Hospital in search of a radical cure. After surgery, Yan said the machine in his brain was magical. It controls your happiness, anger, grief and joy, he said. More than six months later, he says he is still off drugs and has put on 20 pounds (9 kilograms). Sometimes, in his new life, he touches the hard cable in his neck that leads from the battery pack to the electrodes in his brain. And he wonders: What is the machine is doing inside his head? Erika Kinetz, Shanghai, AP Several lawmakers expressed their concern for Macaus traffic and transport problems during yesterday Legislative Assembly session, while others noted that tourism policies in the city were in need of a review. With a speech titled Do not let tour bus become bombs on roads, lawmaker Agnes Lam mentioned the recent incident in which a tour bus crashed into a cafeteria, and recommended the introduction of new technologies. According to Lam, in January this year, the government of South Korea started mandating the installation of the Automatic Emergency Braking and Lane Departure Warning Systems on all vehicles. The latter issues warning when the vehicle goes off lane, and the former is an assistive brake system, which is widely accepted in Japan, Russia, and the EU. She also noted that measures should be in place against tired driving. Ho Ion Sang also commented on the tour bus incident. He suggested the government narrow certain roadside planting areas where tour buses frequent. At the recent incident, the door of the tour bus failed to open after the crash. Ho recommended requiring by law more emergency doors be added to heavy passenger vehicles. Both Lam and Ho agreed that tougher fences or bumpers should be installed at black spots, to better protect pedestrians. Lawmaker Wu Chou Kit pointed out the lack of design in Macaus roads, quoting signage as an example. He said that messages on temporary signboards are usually illegible due to the size and choice of font. Such signage should also be placed at least 100m in advance in Chinese, English, and Portuguese. Wu noted that there are locations in Macau where crossing facilities such as footbridge and underpass were built, but the government failed to scientifically manage the facility nearby. In many cases, several means of crossing facility overlap each other. Wu recommended the government to start with the simpler problems. TOURISM VS DAILY LIFE Lawmaker Ella Lei described what she termed a deadlock in Macaus tourism. She said that as transport is becoming easier in the Greater Bay Area, more single-day tourists should be expected. They tend to utilize every second in Macau to visit as many spots as possible. Therefore, the Tourism Offices strategies of adding new spots and diverting tourists have indeed failed. Many of the tourists spots have become over crowded, she said, adding if no other strategies were taken, the deadlock might become permanent. The inconvenience caused to residents would not disappear even if they were told to be tolerant. Lei said. Zheng Anting reminded the government to think ahead and construct a multilayer road network to ease traffic congestions during peak hours. He also recommended the establishment of maritime passenger travel between Macau and Taipa, which would help ease road traffic and become another tourist attraction. UNANIMOUS SUPPORT WITH SOME QUESTIONS The agenda for yesterdays plenary meeting of the Legislative Assembly was about the urgent amendment to the existing law forbidding the production, sale, and consumption of anesthetic and psychiatric substances. Secretary for Security Wong Sio Chak said in his introduction speech that it was a United Nations requirement that an extra 21 substances be added to the law. Wong justified the need for the urgent procedure by reiterating Macaus responsibility in conforming to international treaty. Also it was an act of adding new substances into the list of control substances inscribed in the law, without amendment to any other part of the law. One of the substances being discussed, Fentanyl, is widely used by medical professionals as a painkiller. According to Lawmaker Chan Iek Lap, who is a medical doctor himself, it works 50 times more effectively than morphine. As it is obtainable at pharmacies, several lawmakers, including Agnes Lam, Leong Sun Iok, and Chan Iek Lap, expressed concerns about its easy accessibility. In response, Secretary Wong noted that every member entity in the Anti-drug Committee would work to educate people about the 21 new substances. Also, considering the medical needs for Fentanyl, it will be available only under certain circumstances. However, Wong cautioned he was not in the right position to comment on the topic because it was within the authority of the Health Bureau. Wong also boasted that the black market price of substance is often two to three times more expensive in Macau than in Hong Kong, because his departments combat drugs with sufficient effort. The law amendment was passed unanimously. Staff reporter Chinas love of a fiery grain liquor made Kweichow Moutai Co. the worlds most valuable alcohol distiller, and the companys approach has been to milk that demand for all its worth. But now a change in leadership is bringing a U-turn in Moutais strategy. Li Baofang, the new chairman of parent Kweichow Moutai Group, is rolling back the efforts of his predecessor, Yuan Renguo, who quietly departed the company last May after 18 years at the helm and was removed this week from a key political position in the companys home province. Li is seeking to re-focus the Moutai Group back on its cash cow: the Shanghai-listed arm that sells an ultra-premium line of baijiu Chinas national drink embraced by the elite and increasingly coveted by the countrys rising middle class. A customization business is being halted, and subsidiaries that make alcohol for non-premium brands are being shut down to channel production resources to the listed arm, according to people familiar with the matter. The parent group is also trying to sell directly to customers through the establishment of its own sales office, while cutting down the listed companys 3,000-strong network of distributors. Suspicion a system of kickbacks had developed between liquor distributors and some of these units helped trigger the shift, say the people, who didnt want to be identified discussing internal company matters. The changes are creating a stir among investors. The Shanghai Stock Exchange has asked the companys controlling shareholder to explain the reason for setting up a new direct sales company, along with its business model and plans, according to a company filing late Tuesday. Moutais stock has lost as much as 12 percent this week amid concerns the new structure shifts power and sales to the parent group, away from the listed body. The shares fell 0.6 percent yesterday amid the global market selloff. Baijiu king Moutais Feitian, or Flying Fairy in English, is the king of Chinas baijius. Made with local stream water and fermented sorghum in a mountain village in the nations south, production hasnt been able to keep up with demand. While thats added to the liquors cachet, its put the company in a challenging position when it comes to growth. Moutai cant just hike prices because of government restrictions on the cost of high-end alcohol in China. Former chairman Yuans solution was to diversify and trade off the Moutai name. Used by Mao Zedong to toast the founding of the Peoples Republic in 1949, Feitian and the ultra-premium baijiu lines run by the companys Shanghai-listed arm are a must-have symbol of wealth and power on the banquet tables of China. Yuan sought to grow the customization business, which made HKD6,000 (USD765) bottles of personalized Feitian for gambling junket operators in Macau, the worlds biggest casino hub and a magnet for Chinas biggest spenders. The company introduced a raft of brands and sub-brands separate to the premium lines and Yuan also had plans for a less-expensive line of baijiu, which means white liquor, named Xijiu. But the new guard Li took over last May has shut down subsidiaries, including one called Baijin Liquor, diverting some of their production lines to Moutais core brands and leaving hundreds of workers idle, according to the people. Kweichow Moutai Co. has more than doubled in value over the past two years, after leapfrogging Diageo Co. the maker of Johnnie Walker whiskey and Smirnoff vodka in 2017. Thanks to soaring demand for Feitian, Moutais gross profit margin has held around 90 percent for more than a decade, and the listed arm contributed 78 percent of the wider groups revenue of 40.8 billion yuan ($6 billion) in 2014. Thats expected to rise to 86 percent of the projected 100 billion yuan in sales this year. The brand cull was aimed at protecting that flank. Some subsidiaries were causing serious and negative impact to Moutais reputation, according to an internal company document from February announcing the shutdowns seen by Bloomberg and verified by people familiar with the companys activities. Image concerns Moutai suspects distributors were paying kickbacks for the right to operate and distribute those subsidiary brands, tarnishing the companys image, the people said. A company representative didnt respond to requests for comment. Moutais Feitian baijiu bottled at their factory in the town of Maotai. Photographer: Qilai Shen/Bloomberg Li is trying to streamline the alcohol giant as smaller rivals like Wuliangye Yibin Co. muscle in on the baijiu trade and Chinese consumer demand ebbs amid a slowing economy. Moutai cut more than 400 of its 3,000 distributors throughout China in recent months, according to its annual report published in March. For the first time, the company is signing contracts directly with retailers, issuing a tender last month for six supermarkets to carry its stock. This week it announced the opening of a new in-house unit that will sell Feitian and other core brands directly to customers, bypassing distributors. The shift is designed to boost margins, but is also a way of cleaning up the distribution network, the people said. Other Plans One of the consequences has been a spike in prices in the retail market as distributors hoard inventory on concern theyll be terminated next, according to people involved in the sales network who didnt want to be identified. A 500 ml (16.9 oz) bottle of Feitian on Chinese e-commerce platform T-mall, currently costs in excess of 2,000 yuan, more than double Moutais factory-gate price set in late 2017 the last time it was increased. Former chairman Yuan Renguo speaks during an interview in 2017. Photographer: Qilai Shen/Bloomberg In an interview with Bloomberg in late 2017, Yuan detailed his strategy for pushing Moutai forward. He also planned to set up insurance and asset management businesses and was weighing public listings of Moutais e-commerce platform, an agricultural unit and the subsidiary selling Xijiu by 2020. Those plans havent been mentioned by Moutai since Yuan was replaced almost a year ago. His removal from Guizhou provinces political consultative body this week, according to state-run media, could be another sign Yuans legacy is being unwound. Daniela Wei, Bloomberg A Christian woman acquitted of blasphemy after spending eight years on death row in Pakistan has left for Canada to be reunited with her daughters, Pakistani officials and others involved in the case said yesterday. Aasia Bibi was convicted of blasphemy in 2009 after a quarrel with a fellow farmworker. The Supreme Court overturned her conviction last year, and she had been in protective custody since then. Islamic extremists have rioted over the case and threatened to kill her. The same radical Islamists, many of whom have been jailed for their threats, also urged the overthrow of the government following Bibis acquittal. Wilson Chawdhry of the British Pakistani Christian Association told The Associated Press that he received a text message from a British diplomat saying Aasia is out. A close friend of Bibi also confirmed that she had left the country, speaking on condition of anonymity for fear of reprisal. Her lawyer, Saif-ul Malook, said she had already arrived in Canada. Officials at Pakistans interior and foreign ministries also confirmed her departure, speaking on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to brief media. British Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt tweeted his pleasure at Bibis departure. Fantastic news that Asia Bibi appears to have left Pakistan safely, he tweeted, adding that he was about to meet U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo to talk about persecution of Christians around the world. The case has brought international attention to Pakistans controversial blasphemy law, which carries an automatic death penalty. The mere suspicion of blasphemy against Islam is enough to ignite mob lynchings in the country. Blasphemy allegations have also been used to intimidate religious minorities and to settle scores. Radical Islamists have made the punishment of blasphemy a major rallying cry, bringing tens of thousands into the streets and paralyzing major cities. The reluctance of local and foreign officials to speak openly of Bibis departure may reflect fears of igniting more violence. Salman Taseer, the governor of Punjab province, was shot and killed by one of his guards in 2011 for defending Bibi and criticizing the misuse of the blasphemy law. The assassin, Mumtaz Qadri, has been celebrated as a martyr by hard-liners since he was hanged for the killing, with millions visiting a shrine set up for him near Islamabad. Pakistans minister for minorities, Shahbaz Bhatti, was assassinated later that year after demanding justice for Bibi. Prime Minister Imran Khan has vowed not to be intimidated by the rioters, saying the rule of law would decide Bibis fate. But she was denied permission to leave the country for several months until sentiments cooled. The friend, who last spoke to her on Tuesday, said Bibi and her husband Ashiq Masih had spent the last several weeks getting their documents in order. He said she was longing to see her daughters, with whom she talked to almost daily from her secure location, protected by Pakistani security forces.Kathy Gannon, Islamabad, AP South Africans voted yesterday in presidential and parliamentary elections amid issues of corruption and unemployment. It is 25 years since the end of apartheid, but despite the demise of the harsh system of racial discrimination, the country remains divided by economic inequality. The African National Congress, the party of Nelson Mandela that has been in power since 1994, is likely to win a majority but it will face a difficult challenge to do as well as five years ago. The party has been tarnished by widespread corruption scandals and a national unemployment rate of 27% that has left many voters disillusioned. The ANCs leader, President Cyril Ramaphosa, has campaigned on promises to clean up his party, an acknowledgment of the problems that forced his predecessor to resign last year. Opposition leader Mmusi Maimane, who has campaigned vigorously against corruption, was one of the first voters at the Dobsonville polling station in Soweto, Johannesburgs largest black township. Soweto represents to me the home of the struggle against apartheid and it is where we are now struggling against corruption and for a new government, Maimane said after casting his ballots. Black support for Maimanes party, the Democratic Alliance, is limited because it is generally perceived to be run by whites. In the working class suburb of Kempton Park, in eastern Johannesburg, Albert Lethole, 65, said it felt good to vote. He said he voted in the first all-race elections in 1994. Things have been changing slowly but more needs to be done, said Lethole of changes since the end of apartheid. The ANC has vowed to embark on a program of seizing white-owned land without compensation, for which it needs a 67% majority to change South Africas constitution. In the most likely scenario, the ANC will need to form a coalition government with another party to get the votes needed to alter the constitution. That is likely to be the Economic Freedom Fighters, a populist, left-wing party that also supports land seizures. If the ANCs share of the vote slips below 60%, Ramaphosa could be vulnerable and his party could oust him and choose a new leader. The countrys young voters, who make up about 20% of the electorate, largely support the EFF, which is led by charismatic firebrand Julius Malema, who broke from the ANC six years ago. More than 40 smaller parties also are vying for power in the balloting. Neither the president nor the parliament is elected directly. Voters cast ballots for a national party and the number of votes won by each party determines how many representatives are sent to the legislature. The president is the leader of the party that gets the most votes. Some 26 million people of the countrys population of 57 million are eligible to vote. Most of the 22,900 polling stations opened at 7 a.m. local time and were to close at 9 p.m. (0500 to 1900 GMT). The day is a national holiday to encourage turnout. South Africa was famous for its long lines of voters in the first post-apartheid election 25 years ago. But a sense of national apathy this year could be an ominous sign for the ANC. Preliminary results will be announced from the electoral commission in the capital, Pretoria, and final results are not expected for 48 hours. Andrew Meldrum, Johannesburg, AP The outbreak of African swine fever in China and the resulting slaughter of the affected animals has led the government of the country to authorise imports of edible pork fat from Brazil, reported the Brazilian press. The information, released by President Jair Bolsonaro on his Twitter feed, said the Chinese government had authorised pork exporters in Brazil to also ship the edible fat of the animal, in order to make up the lack of the product as a result of the swine fever outbreak. The measure comes in response to a request presented by the Brazilian Association of Animal Protein, the president wrote, citing the association as saying that pork fat has a higher market value than traditional meat. Brazils Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Food Supply estimate that China has lost about 30% of the pigs in the country as a result of the swine fever outbreak, which creates an opportunity for Brazilian producers to increase their exports to China, the worlds largest producer and consumer of pork. The Brazilian Minister of Agriculture, Livestock and Supply, Tereza Cristina, on Monday, started a 16-day tour of four Asian countries Japan, China, Vietnam and Indonesia, with about 100 business people, parliamentarians and representatives of producer associations. West Germany has formally joined the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation at a special ceremony in Paris. The German delegates to NATO were greeted by British Foreign Secretary Harold Macmillan at the Conference Hall of the Palais de Chaillot. Ministers from 14 member countries made a short speech welcoming West Germany into the alliance, saying they believed Germanys inclusion would strengthen peace in Europe. Norways Foreign Minister, Halward Lange, who spent two years in Ravensbruck concentration camp, called the entry of Germany into Nato a decisive turning point in the history of our continent. Some ministers also paid tribute to Dr Konrad Adenauer, German Chancellor since 1946. In response, Dr Adenauer said in German: I thank you from the bottom of my heart for the words of welcome you have addressed to the federal government and to the German nation. All your words reflected the importance of the hour and the event. You will realise that this moment fills me with deep emotion. The German people have paid harshly for the horrors which were committed in their name by evil leadership and have paid these horrors with unlimited suffering. Today, everywhere in Germany, peace and freedom are felt to be the greatest treasures as was true in the best periods of her history. This morning, the red, yellow and black German flag was raised at a military ceremony at Nato headquarters in Rocquencourt, France. A British band played the German national anthem better known as Deutschland ueber Alles. A French band had refused to play the music because of its Nazi connotations. Professor Hans Speidel, former general of the Third Reich and ex chief-of-staff to Field Marshall Erwin Rommel, witnessed the ceremony alongside United States General Alfred Gruenther and Major General Rene Lehr of France. Herr Speidel was implicated in a plot to kill Adolf Hitler and spent the end of the war in a German prison. Formal ceremonies over, the Nato members will now discuss the agenda of a proposed conference with the Soviet Union on the future of Germany and disarmament. Courtesy BBC News In context West Germany was reunified with East Germany on 3 October 1990. The USSR saw the inclusion into Nato of West Germany in 1955 as a direct threat and in the same year it created a counter-alliance called the Warsaw Pact. This dissolved after the break-up of the USSR in 1991 and Nato had to re-evaluate its role as a military alliance defending Western Europe against perceived Soviet aggression. Nato formed closer links with former eastern bloc countries by setting up a North Atlantic Cooperation Council in 1991 and the Partnership for Peace programme in 1994. The Czech Republic, Hungary and Poland became the first former Warsaw Pact countries to gain Nato membership in 1999. Bulgaria, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Romania, Slovakia and Slovenia are expected to join in 2004. Natos first aggressive action against a sovereign state took place in 1999, when it bombed targets in Yugoslavia in an attempt to halt that countrys policy of ethnic cleansing in Kosovo. This was strongly opposed by Russia. But the Kremlins supportive response to the 11 September 2001 attacks on targets in the USA led to the formation in May 2002 of the Nato-Russia Council. This means Russia and Nato countries will have an equal role in decision-making on policy to counter terrorism and other security threats. As he cranks up the pressure on China in pursuit of a new trade accord, President Donald Trump is putting his deal-making persona on the line and injecting new risk into his bid for another four years in the White House. Trump has raised the already high stakes of this weeks talks between U.S. and Chinese negotiators as he seeks to seal an agreement he can brandish on the campaign trail. The push to bring the talks with China to a conclusion comes as his administration gears up for a difficult fight in Congress over its new North American trade deal. Progress or failure on the twin agenda items stands to be a key selling point for his reelection or a sobering verdict on his unpredictable stylings. Already, the risks are mounting. Trade fears sent U.S. markets sharply downward yesterday [Macau time] amid rising concerns about the China talks resuming today. Earlier this week, U.S. Trade Representative Bob Lighthizer said the Trump administration was prepared to raise import taxes on USD200 billion worth of Chinese goods tomorrow. Trump made protecting American manufacturers and farmers central planks of his 2016 candidacy, and his pledge to reverse the tide of globalization helped him win over voters in Democratic-leaning states like Michigan and Wisconsin. Now those groups Trump vowed to help are sounding the alarm about the impact of Trumps protectionist measures on imports from China and other trading partners. Despite Trumps rhetoric to the contrary, tariffs are paid by U.S. importers of foreign goods. Manufacturers dependent on foreign material, retailers and other importers have been charged more than $15 billion in the last year, according to federal data, though the impact directly felt by consumers has been relatively minimal. Dave Salmonsen, a senior director at the American Farm Bureau Federation, said the group is hopeful that the presidents threat of increased tariffs on Friday is just part of the negotiating process. He said that agriculture exports to China fell by more than half last year from $21 billion in 2017. Theyve retaliated on almost everything we send, he said. Throw in retaliatory tariffs from Canada, Mexico and other nations, and the trade war contributed to a projected 16 percent decrease in farm income last year, according to a recent study from the Agriculture Department. The Trump administration ended up providing up to $12 billion in aid to farmers affected by the trade skirmishes. Some Republican senators voiced concerns about the state of trade negotiations during a private lunch Tuesday with Vice President Mike Pence. Were not in a good way at all, said Sen. Pat Roberts of Kansas, chairman of the Agriculture Committee. Theres a lot of feeling in ag country that were being used as pawns in this whole business, Roberts said, but added: We will benefit tremendously if we get a good deal, so were hanging in there with the president. The vice president encouraged the senators to stick with Trump as he pushes China for a better deal. Despite the political fallout back home, senators seemed intent on not breaking ranks with the White House at this crucial moment in the trade talks. Even though theres some real issues in Wisconsin, theres a great deal of support for what hes trying to accomplish, said Sen. Ron Johnson, R-Wis. I dont think anybody wants to undermine his negotiating position right now, and were all keeping our fingers crossed. Current and former Trump administration officials believe the U.S. still has the most leverage in the talks, saying China needs access to the U.S. market more than the reverse. And even if the talks dont succeed for Trump, their hope is that voters are more likely to blame any pain on China, rather than the president. Former Trump strategist Stephen Bannon wrote in The Washington Post that the presidents best political option is not to surrender, but rather to double down on the tariffs they have been highly effective in pressuring the Chinese without harming the U.S. economy. Certain Trump advisers inside and outside the White House are playing on the presidents well-earned pride in a rising stock market and a fear he might lose the Farm Belt to try to box him into a weak deal. But it is a decidedly false narrative that any failure to reach a deal will lead to a market meltdown and economic implosion, Bannon wrote. And there are indications that at least some Trump supporters are all for the presidents confrontation. Right now, because we have a strong economy and China has some issues with its aging population and a slowing economy, were in a position of strength to negotiate a better deal, said Jeff Schulmeister, 52, a resident of the Detroit suburb of Macomb Township. I think what hes doing is the right thing to do, and I think its going to benefit the country. Kevin Freking & Zeke Miller, Washington, AP Trauma that results from sexual abuse is common enough among military veterans both men and women that the U.S. Veterans Administration has trained at least 90 percent of providers across its medical system nationwide to screen patients for it and direct them to help. The VA even uses its own term for it: military sexual trauma, or MST. The rate at which the VA sees veterans with MST increases each year, both nationally and at the Madison VA hospital. The number of veterans who have disclosed that they have it to a health care provider increased nationwide from 165,447 in fiscal year 2015 to 203,588 in fiscal year 2018, according to Casey Hoffman, the military sexual trauma coordinator at the VA in Madison. Despite its prevalence, expert observers say internal supports for sexual assault victims both for treatment and for seeking justice in the military are inconsistent at best and counterproductive at worst. Each military organization that works with victims at various junctures from reporting to investigating to medical treatment operates by its own set of procedures with little or no communication among them. One expert said that the Guard is particularly ill-equipped to investigate and prosecute sensitive sexual assault cases in part because its legal staff is part-time and not well-trained. On top of that, there is little federal oversight and much variation from state to state in how cases are treated. Heres how the process works. When someone reports a sexual assault in the National Guard, it first goes through the chain of command in her local unit, often starting with the Guards sexual assault response coordinator if the victim requests it. The National Guard then does an internal investigation of the allegations, though the procedures for investigation and potential punishment for perpetrators vary widely. The National Guard Bureau, a federal agency run by the Department of the Army and the Department of the Air Force, oversees Guard units in each state, sets policies that govern how assault victims are treated and how claims are investigated. But proactive oversight on the national level is sparse. Guard units in each state largely run themselves with their own codes of military justice that are a part of state law, according to experts who track Guard issues on a national level. The governor of each state is the National Guards commander-in-chief and typically appoints an adjutant general. In Wisconsin, those are five-year terms. Adjutant General Donald Dunbar was first appointed by Gov. Jim Doyle and re-appointed by former Gov. Scott Walker. Dunbars term ends in 2022. Every state Guard is different. There are some that are more progressive than others; its all about local leadership, said Ellen Haring, a retired Army colonel, adjunct associate professor at Georgetown University and CEO of the Womens Service Action Network, an advocacy group for women military veterans. Despite pledges and initiatives from all military branches to improve how sexual assaults and harassment are investigated, Haring and others say the problem is worsening. We think the problem is getting worse, not better, she said, adding that there needs to be more focus on what is happening in the culture of the military that allows sexual assault and harassment to be so prevalent. Theyre focused on after the fact (of an assault) rather than, What in the world is the cancer in the culture that is allowing this to happen in the first place? We just follow the process Wisconsin Army National Guard officials see it differently. Maj. Robert Brania, the sexual assault response advocate for the Guard, said he sees a much larger problem outside of the Guard than within it. Based on my experience, it is less a Wisconsin National Guard problem and more a cultural problem living in this state and this country, he said, adding that many soldiers seek help from the Guard even if an assault happened outside of their military duties. Brania, who is a federal employee and not within the adjutant generals chain of command, said it is his job to ensure the interest of the victim and the interest of the National Guard are not at odds with each other. He said he advocates for the victims interests first. It is in our organizations best interest to have service members that are healthy and ready to deploy, he said. Anyone who suggests that we would benefit by having people victimized by any crime, its a little off base. The Guard received 52 reports of sexual misconduct from 2013 through 2017. Twelve reports involved scenarios in which the Guard did not have jurisdiction because the incidents involved civilian perpetrators or victims, or because the assaults occurred prior to the military service of the people who reported them. Sexual assault reports across all branches of the military nationwide have increased seven years in a row and were up 10 percent in 2018 over the previous year, according to the latest annual report released by the U.S. Department of Defense. About 1 in 4 female veterans and 1 in 100 male veterans in the Veterans Administration health care system report experiencing military sexual trauma, according to the VA. Despite these statistics, the Wisconsin Guard states through federally mandated reports that it received no harassment complaints in fiscal year 2018. In a 2017 federal report, Wisconsins Fort McCoy in Monroe County, where both the Guard and Army train, was the only Army installation in the world that said it received zero reports of sexual assault from fiscal years 2013 to 2016. The Wisconsin National Guard follows due process for both victims and alleged perpetrators without favoring one or the other, said David Dziobkowski, the Guards legal counsel, adding that doing so is the foundation of justice. Everyone is looking for justice, right? While the allegations are credible, the process is going to come to a conclusion the victim may not be satisfied (with), the perpetrator may not be satisfied (with), Dziobkowski said at a media roundtable held by the Guard last month. The adherence to the process is very important. We do take the victims interests into account every step of the way. There is no taking sides. We just follow the process and where the evidence leads to, we take the appropriate course of action. Now, could there be improvements? I am sure there could be, he said. Often if a victim is not happy with the outcome of an investigation, it means that the process was not communicated effectively not that the Guard failed to follow protocol, said Brania. If things are not communicated in the right way or the right time, perception is reality and there could be a perception that a different decision was made or a process wasnt followed, he said. Oftentimes, unfortunately in this field these cases dont often end well, he said. They are very under-prosecuted (by military authorities and) there are a number of reasons for that. So if someone didnt like an outcome, thats one thing, but if somebody is suggesting that a process wasnt followed, that from our experience, is a lack of communication. We would never cover something up, said Jackie Halverson, the Guards spokeswoman. Inconsistent support For Megan Plunkett, who says she was sexually assaulted by three different men while serving as an officer in the Wisconsin Army National Guard, the process for getting justice is fundamentally flawed and further traumatizes victims. The VA, which reviewed her case with corroborating medical evidence from her therapists and independent psychiatrists, concluded that Plunkett has certifiable trauma and mental illness because of her time in the Guard. But the Guard itself deemed her untruthful in its investigations of her complaints, quoting other soldiers who called her a snake, describing her as mentally not stable and citing rumors she slept with other soldiers as evidence that assaults did not occur. The findings came even though a separate Guard investigation revealed rampant sexual misconduct in one of her units. The Guards investigative processes and the way she has been treated by leaders there have further traumatized her and led to a decline in her mental health, Plunkett said. Investigations should not include irrelevant and aggressive language against the victim, she said. The investigation should (include) two things: did sex occur and did the victim give positive consent? Col. Don Christensen agrees. He is the president of Protect Our Defenders a national nonprofit dedicated to ending the epidemic of rape and sexual assault in the military and he gives legal assistance to veterans who have been sexually assaulted. He said those statements in the Guards investigations of Plunketts complaints show so much about the lack of experience of these investigators, that they gave much stock to co-workers ready to attack the victim. Nationwide, the National Guard holds few courts martial military trials for sexual offenses compared to active duty branches, Christensen said. In Wisconsin, the number is two. One is ongoing and the other concluded in 2016. Christensen also said that nobody is really qualified in the Guard to be dealing with these issues, adding that it is probably the least qualified institution in the United States to hold people criminally liable because of the lack of specialized training and experience in its ranks and because of its part-time work structure. Plunkett said once the legal process starts, medical and legal support for victims is inconsistent. She only realized she could apply for VA benefits for mental health from military sexual trauma after a soldier she supervised told her. No one at the National Guard or the Green Bay Vet Center where she sought help told her she could be eligible despite never being on active duty. As she navigated the investigation and claims processes, consistent care from therapists, attorneys and the VA was difficult. Her experiences with the VA in Green Bay and Milwaukee have been mixed, she said. Unless she tells them she is suicidal, it takes about a month to see a therapist for her post-traumatic stress disorder. Waits were common on the legal side as well. Every soldier in the National Guard who alleges sexual assault and requests an investigation (known as an unrestricted report in the Guard) is appointed a special victims counsel or SVC, an advocate to help her navigate the military investigative process. National Guard soldiers rotate jobs frequently, though, holding positions for about two years before moving on. That system makes it difficult for those who experience sexual assault to maintain consistent care and representation. Plunkett has gone through three special victims counsels and three Guard-appointed attorneys throughout her time in the service. She said the inconsistency has been exhausting and frustrating, requiring her to advocate for herself and re-educate the people who are supposed to help her. It took the Guard three months to assign Plunkett a special victims counsel after she requested an investigation into the alleged assaults against her. I could hardly ever get a hold of my SVC or my TDS (trial defense services attorney). I couldnt get a hold of them. They were too busy, their caseloads were too big, she said. Its not just the rapes, but the responses from those who are supposed to protect and help me. How theyre not available, theyre not giving me information, not giving me information about resources that I need. That dynamic is unfortunately the norm, said Protect Our Defenders Christensen. Defense counsel rotate about every two years and special victims counsel rotate about one to three years in the Guard. Once an attorney gets a case, it could be a year before anything happens with it, he said. The average sexual assault case takes about 500 days from report to action, he said, adding that: Its very likely the SVC you start with is not the SVC you end up with at the end. Its not good. Its not good at all. Mental health issues The mental toll of the past seven years has been massive, Plunkett said. I dissociate and forget, she writes in one of her cognitive memory journals which are undated but span 2015 through 2017. I black out and cant recall where Ive been or what Ive done. I cant recall simple facts I am not who I was. She is on several types of medicine for anxiety and depression, and it is a struggle for her to work full-time. She has been accepted to a competitive medical sonography program at Northeast Wisconsin Technical College that starts in the fall but she is not sure she is going to pursue it. She has had a range of reactions. After the first alleged assaults in the Guard, she shaved her head and started dating women, which was out of character for her. According to her therapist notes and VA records, she attempted suicide on June 24, 2018, by taking pills and drinking. She was taken to the emergency room and held at the Brown County Community Treatment Center for three days. In the months leading up to that attempt, Plunketts therapist repeatedly noted that they worked on processing feelings of anger, betrayal and disgust towards Army for sexual trauma investigation, according to records of her charts. Since her suicide attempt, functioning like a normal adult, as Plunkett puts it, continues to be a struggle. I try not to have alcohol in the house because if I do Ill drink too much, she said. I have trouble sleeping. I have panic attacks. I have nightmares. I have nightmares of men with their penis in my vagina, men I dont want there, she said. I have issues with my boyfriend trying to be intimate. In one entry in her journal, she asked: At what point does a sexual assault based on power and control become consensual?" Her counselor at the Green Bay Vet Center repeatedly noted that the ongoing investigations were a source of anxiety and cited them numerous times in her notes from 2015 through 2018, along with having to train with her alleged assailants. Since our last session she attended drill weekend and has been coping with seeing the man who sexually assaulted her, Plunketts therapist wrote on Oct. 28, 2015. This was the first time she had to see him since the incident. Plunketts friends, boyfriend and mother said she is not who she was before she entered the National Guard. Megan is one of the strongest, most self-confident people I have ever known, or at least she was up until this point, said her mother, Kristen Brankin, who lives in Manitowoc. She said Plunkett told her about the assaults, though not at first. There has been a huge breakdown in the self-confidence. I see almost a constant uneasiness about her own security, even within her home. Tara Matthews was Plunketts roommate in Madison during her early days in the Guard, and the two have remained friends. When they lived together Plunkett was full of energy, worked two jobs full-time and went to school, Matthews said. Ive definitely seen her decline and I think shes experienced a lot of depression related to this, Matthews said. Ive seen her be Wonder Woman and now Ive also seen her spirit be crushed a bit. Her boyfriend, Aaron, who requested that the Cap Times not use his last name, said on some days she is OK, but on others, she wont get out of bed. There are days when something will trigger it and shell think about it and whatever it is, I can definitely see a difference in the mood, he said. As Plunkett struggles with the aftermath of her time in the Guard, she wants to see its system of justice changed. It inherently disadvantages victims, she said. The system is broken, Plunkett wrote in one of her journals. The system is set up so that a woman is required to allow for unwanted sexual advances in order to receive basic, fundamental necessities in order to perform her job function. Victims of sexual harassment or sexual assault retaliation, rape, they should have more resources and the resources that are available should be more readily available, she said. They should have better protection, they should be protected from retaliation and the rape that Ive been through. Dane County Jail inmate Christopher Beierle says he is in constant pain from an untreated hernia, but he cannot get a surgery that would alleviate his symptoms because he is not eligible for health care while incarcerated. Inmates are excluded from federal health and veterans benefits when they are admitted into jail. The jail will not cover costs for the procedure because it is considered an elective surgery, Beierle said. Without medical benefits, there is nothing I can do until being released from jail, Beierle said during an interview Monday with representatives from the National Association of Counties. We need better. A lot better. The Medicaid Inmate Exclusion Policy is one piece of the recidivism puzzle that members of a joint task force between the National Association of Counties and the National Sheriffs' Association hope to address. Under this policy, inmates admitted to jail are ineligible for Medicaid, known as BadgerCare in Wisconsin. An Illinois woman is facing felony charges after an officer pulled her over on Interstate 90/94 near Lisbon for allegedly driving 116 mph with a child in the vehicle, and she then sped away from the traffic stop, police said. Three UW-Madison undergraduates have been named winners of the prestigious Goldwater scholarship for excellence in the sciences. Juniors Ryan Brown, Claire Evensen and Luquant Singh are three of 496 undergraduates around the country to receive Goldwater scholarships, out of 1,223 sophomores and juniors nominated. Junior Patrick Kasl was UW-Madisons fourth nominee this year. The Barry Goldwater Scholarship and Excellence in Education Foundation was established by Congress in 1986, to help finance the education of scientists, engineers and mathematicians. Juniors winning the scholarship get a maximum $7,500 for tuition, fees, books and room and board. Brown is from Oshkosh and is studying genetics and genomics, with a minor in computer science. He plans to pursue an M.D. and Ph.D. in cancer biology, with an interest in translational oncology research. Evensen is from Verona and is studying biochemistry and mathematics. She plans to pursue a Ph.D. in mathematical biology. Singh is from Verona and is studying applied math, engineering and physics. He plans to pursue a Ph.D. in plasma physics. Want to see more like this? Get our local education coverage delivered directly to your inbox. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. The administration implemented the temporary pay increases as a short-term way to stem yawning vacancy rates at correctional institutions. The temporary pay bump will be in place until June 20, 2020. Corrections officials selected the specific institutions whose workers will receive pay increases based on an analysis focusing on security needs, vacancy rates and trends in recruitment and retention, among other things. The Republicans in Wednesdays letter, including Assembly Speaker Robin Vos, R-Rochester, said the administrations plan to provide select pay increases is unfair. All of Wisconsins corrections officers face challenges as they work to keep their facilities secure and the public safe while also helping to rehabilitate offenders, they wrote. Singling out some officers over others to receive the benefit was not well thought out. But Evers spokeswoman Melissa Baldauff placed blame on Republicans for ignoring correctional officer pay increases. This ones really good, Kroeger said of a flourless chocolate torte from Ugly Apple, a vendor that sells breakfast food made from primarily local seconds and overstock. It like melts in your mouth. Its the right amount of crispy with the right softness, Raymer added. Once Kroeger and Raymer got to the front of the line, they delighted in Melly Mels moist chicken and cabbage that tasted like dessert. Terry Cohn, 68, and her husband Michael Johns, 68, stood off to the side eating their samples. They have lived in Madison for around 40 years and plan to come to the market every week once it is finished. The building has a really nice open feeling, Cohn said. Johns added he appreciates that the city is reusing the industrial space. The two have been to public markets in Philadelphia, Washington, D.C., Seattle, Milwaukee and Europe. Cohn believes the market can help the East Side thrive. I think it will be a real bonus for this part of the city, she said. U.S. Sen. Elizabeth Warrens call for impeachment is nothing but a product of poor polling. Since her presidential announcement in early February, she has seen many in the field pass her by. And with Joe Biden holding steady at the top spot, she will take any and all measures to catch a tail wind. And so it is that Elizabeth Warren took to the Senate floor Tuesday and declared, The information that has been given to us in the Mueller Report clearly constitutes adequate information to begin an impeachment proceeding in the House of Representatives. No matter how many times Mitch McConnell or the rest of the Republicans want to wish that away, its there in black and white in the report. Of course, nothing is there in black and white other than the fact that, The investigation did not establish that members of the Trump Campaign conspired or coordinated with the Russian government in its election interference activities. But that is not enough for Sen. Warren, who managed to keep a straight face on the Senate floor. WASHINGTON For the past 21 years, I have had the high privilege of holding a White House press pass, a magical ticket that gives the bearer a front-row seat to history. I was in the White House the night Bill Clinton admitted his affair with Monica Lewinsky, and the day he was impeached. I was there on Sept. 11, 2001, and the fearful days thereafter, when we were trained to use escape hoods. I watched George W. Bush make the case for the Iraq War and Barack Obama pitch his remedies for the market crash. There, too, I have witnessed the carnival-like briefings and high histrionics of Donald Trumps presidency. But no more. The White House eliminated most briefings and severely restricted access to official events. And this week came the coup de grace: After covering four presidents, I received an email informing me that Trumps press office had revoked my White House credential. Im not the only one. I was part of a mass purge of hard pass holders after the White House implemented a new standard that designated as unqualified almost the entire White House press corps, including all seven of The Washington Posts White House correspondents. White House officials then chose which journalists would be granted exceptions. The Supreme Court can and should swiftly bring clarity and restore reason to what has been profoundly flawed processes, Walker tells Fox. Robin Vos sticks taxpayers with another legal bill OUR VIEW: His gerrymandered maps are wasting millions of public dollars in court Some clarity on how far state lawmakers can go in drawing oddly shaped districts to thwart the will of the people would be nice. But the ultimate solution isnt for one partisan side or the other to rig the maps. Gerrymandering is wrong no matter if its Republicans in Wisconsin using computers and voting data to skew the lines so they can cling to power, or if its Democrats doing the same thing in Illinois. The real answer is to take the politics out of redistricting, so voters of all stripes are treated fairly and can hold their elected officials accountable without getting stiffed for millions of dollars in legal fees. Thats the Iowa model, which Wisconsin and other states should emulate. Center Stage: Trump puts on a show in Green Bay, but can he win Wisconsin again? In this week's political podcast, Milfred and Hands play clips from the president's rally in Green Bay last weekend, debunking his bluster while assessing his chances against the Democrats in 2020. In Iowa, a neutral state agency draws the lines after each major census to account for population changes. The agency does so under guidelines requiring compact districts that respect communities of interest, rather than protecting incumbents. BURLEY A witness in the case against the man accused of killing Regina Krieger has a history of lying to police and in court. But this time, he appears credible, a judge said May 8. Cody Thompson testified April 26 that he was there on the 1995 night Gilberto Flores Rodriguez went to 14-year-old Kriegers bedroom and came out with a body wrapped in bedding. In a preliminary hearing May 8, Rodriguezs attorney said Thompson and other witnesses were unbelievable, but Minidoka County Magistrate Judge Rick Bollar said he disagreed and he sent the first-degree murder case to district court. Rodriguez, 56, will be arraigned May 20. Rodriguezs attorney, Keith Roark, said in his 42 years working in courtrooms, hed never seen two less believable witnesses than Thompson and Carlos Tena, who testified Rodriguez told him several times hed murdered Krieger and disposed of her body. Thompson, who was 16 years old at the time, said Rodriguez, who was in his 30s, told him to help him carry the body to the car. Later, they dumped her in the Snake River near a bridge in Minidoka County. Thompson is serving a life sentence in prison for rape and intimidating a witness, and Tena is a convicted felon. Roark said there is no doubt the prosecutor proved Krieger was murdered and that it was her body officials recovered on the river bank weeks after she went missing. But, he said, the prosecutor did not provide one shred of physical evidence showing Rodriguez committed the crime, and there was no evidence the crime was committed with malice aforethought. In the April 26 hearing, Thompson admitted under oath he had lied to police on numerous occasions and changed his version of the story. He also admitted hed lied under oath on the witness stand during another court proceeding. Roark said whether the judge found enough evidence to send the case to district court would be determined by how the judge viewed his role in determining credibility in his courtroom. He (Thompson) admits he lied time and time again and he admits that he committed perjury, Roark said. Tena said during the previous portion of the hearing that he was involved in three major Mexican drug cartels when Krieger was killed. That is the wildest story Ive ever heard, Roark said. Roark said the prosecutors office named three confidential witnesses in the affidavit in support of the criminal complaint, but only produced two witnesses during the preliminary hearing. The third uncalled witness, Roark said, told police Rodriguez showed up at a Burley home the night of the murder covered in blood and that Thompson admitted to killing Krieger. Roark said the witness also told police she saw a bloody knife that was buried at a Burley home, but after police got a search warrant, a metal detector and backhoe, it was never found. Bollar said the real-time version of the words from the April 26 portion of the hearing initially showed someone who lacked credibility. But, Bollar said, what struck him was that Thompson previously seemed to have something to gain by his lies, and now it appears now he has so much to lose. Thompson said on the witness stand that by testifying he was putting his life in jeopardy. I found him believable in the terms of his story, Bollar said. The manner of Kriegers death, Bollar said, included the slashing of her throat from ear to ear and a deep stab wound to her heart, which speaks to the element of malice aforethought. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 2 Sad 1 Angry 3 RUPERT A Burley man is charged with enticing a child through the internet after police said he tried to arrange a meeting for sex with someone he thought was a 14-year-old girl. The person turned out to be a Rupert police detective posing as a young girl on an internet dating app. Christopher Lee Turner, 33, was charged on Tuesday with felony enticing a child through the internet, video image or other communication device. An undercover detective said he began chatting with Turner on April 13 using a phony profile of a 14-year-old girl. The officer told Turner she was 14 years old. Turner told the girl he wished she was 18 so they could hang out, and he asked her if she would date an older guy, according to court records. I would treat U like my queen, Turner said in a text message, later retrieved by police. Turner is on parole on a charge out of Montana for having sex with a child, records said. Turner continued to chat with the girl via text messages when talk turned sexual and they made plans to meet at the splash park in Paul. Police pulled Turner over as he tried to leave the splash parks parking lot and placed him under arrest. At the jail, Turner asked to call his wife and gave an officer the passcode to unlock his phone, which opened to the chat hed had with the undercover officer. Turner told police he went to the park to hang out, and that the officer had told him the girl was 18. A preliminary hearing in the case is set at 11 a.m. May 16 in Minidoka County Magistrate Court. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 5 TWIN FALLS Chandra Upreti translates for his friend Bal Tamang in his living room as he stumbles over a selection of words. When hes not relaying Tamangs message, Upreti answers questions about his own experience as a refugee. Upreti was only 6 months old when his family fled Bhutan, but the stories passed down from his parents paint a dismal picture of that time. Those who advocated for their freedom were met with violence. Refusing to adapt to the required culture resulted in human rights violations. There was continuous pressure from the government, either physically or verbally, for people to flee the country, Upreti said. For three days, Upretis family traveled through the jungle to escape the tyranny. Along the way, Upreti fell ill and his parents worried he wouldnt survive the journey to Nepal. But he clung to life and made it to the refugee camps, where conditions were hardly better. You never had access to electricity. You didnt always have access to food and water, Upreti said. Weve seen people die from disease that is easily curable. Upreti never imagined he would get out of camp or receive a proper education. It was a hopeless place. You dont expect to have a dream, he said. I just felt like this is it; this is all I know and all Ill ever be. For a long time, it was. To many of the refugees, life ended at the border of the camp. There was no leaving. Everything they had existed within those 2 square miles that housed 18,000 exiles. Thats how we spent 20 years at camp, surviving one day at a time, he said. After resettling to the United States, Upreti faced a new set of challenges. His family was the first Bhutanese family in Twin Falls, meaning they had no mentors to help them understand the culture of their new country. Upreti barely spoke English. He tried to enroll in high school, but he was turned away he was too old. The customs here were different, and getting used to them would take some time. But Upreti was undaunted. Because we suffered so much in our lives, we were adaptable to change, he said. Many cultural norms didnt translate to his new country. For example, in Bhutan it is considered disrespectful to make eye contact with an older person. In America, it is rude not to make eye contact, which made job interviews very confusing for Upreti. At school, Upreti was taught to fold his arms across his chest, an action associated with positive connotations in his culture. In the U.S., this kind of body language could be interpreted as abrasive or off-putting. Despite the language barrier and culture shock, Upreti was happy to be stateside. Every new challenge was a welcome change of pace from the past two decades of hardship. Compared to surviving in the camp, this was nowhere near as difficult, he said. So Upreti got to work. He started by obtaining his GED diploma. Subsequently, he completed two separate associate degrees in liberal arts and sociology at the College of Southern Idaho. While holding down multiple jobs and caring for his family, Upreti graduated summa cum laude with his Bachelor of Science degree from Idaho State University. Currently, he is working on his Master of Business Administration at Idaho State University in Pocatello. I think my life in camp prepared me for the worst, Upreti said. Its not that Im particularly talented or gifted, I just worked very hard. Love 3 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 BOISE Gov. Brad Little announced that four Idaho Community Development Block Grants will be distributed locally to benefit community development, assist with downtown revitalization and improve senior centers. All grant awards were reviewed and recommended by the Economic Advisory Council, with final approval granted by the governor. The Idaho CDBG program assists Idaho cities and counties with the development of needed public infrastructure. The program is administered by Idaho Commerce with funds received annually from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. These funds are used to construct projects that benefit low and moderate-income persons, help prevent or eliminate slum and blight conditions or mitigate health and safety threats in local areas. TWIN FALLS Located along the Eastern edge of the Himalayas, Bhutans beauty is so widely renowned that outsiders are willing to pay $250 a day to visit. The culture is founded in Buddhist beliefs and the country takes a holistic approach to its well-being, measuring economy and exports alongside the joy of its citizens. As the pioneer of gross national happiness (GNH), a concept former King Jigme Singye Wangchuk declared as more important than gross domestic product in 1972, one would think Bhutan is a paradise for all. But not all were welcome in paradise. While Wangchuk is hailed for his cultivation of GNH, as well as the transition of Bhutan from a monarchy ruled by a king to a democratic system with a governing council, a black stain still marks the history of his reign. After years of working to unify the country under one religion and language, Wangchuks One Nation, One People policy caused civil unrest among the Bhutanese citizens of Nepalese origin, who made up one-third of the countrys residents. This resulted in the exiling of 100,000 people, nearly one-fifth of the entire population of Bhutan. Bal Tamang is one of those refugees. An unexpected exodus At 15, Tamang fled his homeland with his parents. Leaving their home was devastating, yet the decision was not a difficult one. They either ran or they died. Tamangs family is Buddhist, the religion Wangchuk favored, but their Nepalese heritage connected them to those who opposed the king. Within a few weeks of when the fighting began, Tamangs family faced impending exile a consequence that would alter their lives forever. Leaving Bhutan was a very sad feeling, Tamang said. It was very difficult for all of us because we always felt like we belonged there." The government disagreed. Nonconformists were encouraged to flee, either through physical or verbal persuasion. Those who continued to practice their own beliefs were brutally tortured, imprisoned or killed. Fleeing required the family to hike for three days through the jungle. Most of the families left at night to avoid detection. Grappling with illness, wild animals and enemy soldiers, the trek was treacherous. Those with small children struggled to carry them through the rough terrain. Some died along the way, Tamang said. It was horrible at that time. With the violence of Bhutan behind them, a glimmer of hope had appeared. Many people found solace in the safety of the camps, but their struggles had barely begun. Unsettling resettlement The camp initially appeared to be a welcome relief from the obstacles the exiles had already endured. Refugees were finally free of bloodshed and tyranny. The Bhutanese people were able to openly practice their religion, and allowed to be who they were, rather than who a king wanted them to be. We were able to save our culture and language, Tamang said. The euphoria of freedom quickly wore off, however, leaving only the harsh reality of their situation in its wake. The refugees were trapped in an overcrowded camp, one largely unknown to the outside world. Eighteen thousand people lived in a 2-square-mile section of land. Life was miserable, Tamang said. Without work visas, the emigrants could not leave, and opportunities within the camp to earn wages were limited. For the most part, they had no money. Everything they received was reliant on international relief organizations, but shipments were never guaranteed. Refugees resided in houses constructed of bamboo and thatch. Sometimes 10 to 15 people would share one hut. A thatched roof was a poor match for wind and rain. Camp life left a lasting imprint on Tamang. Some of the hardest memories that Im able to share is when it was cold, it was extremely cold and we did not have any resources to make ourselves warm, Tamang said. The camp did not have electricity or a consistent source of clean water. Even their school supplies were donated children could expect a new notebook every three to six months. This required them to take notes in ink, and later to manually wash the pages and hang them up to dry so they could reuse the notebook multiple times. When Tamang got older, he started sneaking out of the camp to work the surrounding farms. It was one of the few ways he could earn money. He left before sunrise and returned after dark to avoid being caught. If he was discovered, his punishment would have been temporary imprisonment. When staying in the camp, we did not have any hope, he said. Many of the refugees believed that camp was the end of the road. The daily effort to survive was all they knew. Finding their footing in the United States After enduring the harsh realities of life in a refugee camp for 15 years, the exiles were spent. Many wanted to return to Bhutan. Others just wanted to get out. Increasing unrest among the refugees prompted the United Nations to get involved. Tamang said the U.N. spoke to Bhutan on their behalf, hopeful the country would take them back. The king refused, stating that the refugees were no longer citizens of Bhutan. The only other option besides the camp was to start fresh in a new country. Most of the people chose third country resettlement, Tamang said. Refugees were given some options of where they could go, but they werent given much information beyond the name of the country. Most of my family wanted to come to the U.S., so I chose to come here, Tamang said. Thus began a five-year process of multiple interviews, background checks and cross-examinations. At that time, the United States was accepting the vast majority of Bhutanese refugees. With friends already heading to America, the choice was obvious for Tamang. It was our great opportunity to come to the U.S., he said. Starting over in a new country presented a wealth of challenges. Tamang had to learn a new language and adapt to a new culture. He arrived with nothing but a duffel bag filled with clothing and a minimal understanding of English. We didnt know where to go or what to do, Tamang said. Tamangs immigration mirrored the path set by Chandra Upreti, a member of the first Bhutanese refugee family to settle in Twin Falls. Upreti who barely spoke English when he arrived here in his early 20s now helps interpret the language for his friends. Upreti and his family shared many of the same experiences Tamangs family endured. Everything was new, but it was still a welcome change of pace from the life he had known. From sorrow to satisfaction For 20 years Tamang resided in the camp, stuck in limbo with no country to call home. Every day was a struggle, but not every memory was unfortunate. Camp was where he met and married his wife, Kal. Nepali culture allows for both love and arranged marriages; Tamang, however, married for love. Between teaching at the camps school and his secret side jobs on nearby farms, Tamang was able to pull together enough money to buy wedding clothes. To this day, Kal Tamang still owns her wedding dress. The traditional red sari flaunts intricately embroidered stones of white, green and gold. A sari is a selection of cloth several yards long that is wrapped around a woman to form an outer garment similar to a dress. The Tamangs held a cultural ceremony to celebrate the occasion. Although it was intended for family and friends, there was no way to keep strangers from wandering in to join the festivities. With few causes for celebration in camp, people were desperate for the distraction. The marriage is complete only after putting a red tika on the brides forehead, Tamang said. The tika commonly displayed as a red dot on the forehead signifies the purity of faith and devotion in Nepali culture. Traditional weddings can last up to three days, but the couple was only able to celebrate theirs for one day. They eventually welcomed their son, Exile, into the world. He was born in our exile life, so I gave him the Exile name, Tamang said. After resettling in the United States, the Tamangs had two more children Jesica and Joshika. Tamang wanted to pursue his education after arriving in America, but familial duties intervened. After only two semesters of studying at the College of Southern Idaho for his General Education Development diploma, Tamang dropped out of school so he could work to support his family. The CSI Refugee Center helped him acquire his first job. Tamang initially worked at Cactus Petes Resort Casino in Jackpot, Nev., but the commute was difficult. Later, he found a job in town at SL Start, a disability services and support organization, before moving on to St. Lukes Magic Valley Medical Center, where he still works today. Although he was unable to continue onward academically, Tamang enjoys witnessing his childrens educational achievements, opportunities he never had. All three of his kids now 12, 8 and 6 years old attend Oregon Trail Elementary School in Twin Falls. Outside of school, the children participate in extracurricular activities with their peers. Exile is a first-degree black belt in general martial arts. He attends classes at Twin Falls Martial Arts and often helps teach the beginners class that his father takes. Jesica, the middle child, enjoys dance. While Exile and Tamang train in martial arts, Jesica spends her time next door at Grace Dance Academy, practicing her leaps and spins. Joshika, the youngest, is content to play on a tablet while she waits for her siblings to finish. Keeping a rich culture alive For Tamang, passing his heritage down to his children is extremely important. With family scattered across the globe, including siblings in Bhutan, Cincinnati, Boston and India, Tamang worries his children will lose sight of who they are. That is why he shares stories of his time in camp, and what life was like before it. We tell these stories to keep our family close, he said. Tamang hopes to carry the traditions of his culture forward, but since most of his children were born in America, it is difficult to keep their customs alive. To bridge this divide, he launched the Bhutanese-American Society of Twin Falls Idaho in 2018. He also acts as the organizations president. BASTI is a nonprofit organization that meets every week to teach children about Nepali language and culture. The goal is to educate future generations about their home country. Manorath Kalikotay, vice president of BASTI, said the group represents all of the Bhutanese people who came from Nepal. We formed this to establish a stronger community and preserve our culture and traditions, Kalikotay said. Kalikotay also fled Bhutan in 1990 and spent 20 years living in refugee camps in Nepal. When his children are older, he intends to tell them about his time as a refugee, like Tamang. Its a history that they should know, he said. He wants his children to understand how he lived to help them appreciate everything they have, and what he experienced to gain the freedoms they enjoy. BASTI focuses on passing down the traditions and language of the Bhutanese people. Since the younger generation speaks English better than most of their parents, losing the Nepali language is a very real concern. Culture is the backbone of people, Kalikotay said. We want to focus on building our childrens future in a very constructive way. Customs of another country Tamang resides with his wife, their three children and his mother, Kala. Nepali culture dictates that parents take care of their children when theyre young, and in turn, the children care for their parents when theyre old. It is very common to see three generations living in the same home. Another Nepali tradition involves the distribution of food. Whoever prepares a meal must be the one to plate it. Usually, Nepalese start with the oldest or head of the family and serve down the line by age, ending with the chef. Nepali culture also dictates that if the head of the house isnt at home, the meal cannot be served until he or she arrives. This could mean the wife would have to wait to eat until the husband returned for example, but Tamang explained this custom isnt practiced as much as it used to be, especially for Bhutanese-Americans. The Tamangs still celebrate a couple of holidays from their homeland. Diwali and Dashara both take place in October, although the dates are adjusted to coincide with weekends to accommodate work schedules. Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is a time for siblings to honor each other. Tamang celebrates by lighting candles and singing cultural songs with friends and family. Siblings take turns blessing each other with tikas. It is very important to celebrate the relationships and love shared between brothers and sisters, Tamang said. Dashara, also known as Dasara or Dussehra, celebrates the relationship between parents and children, according to Tamang. The day is filled with dancing and food, acknowledging families that are separated but wish to be together. A completely different landscape Of the 100,000 Bhutanese refugees in Nepal, 85% have been resettled in the U.S., according to a post on the Obama White House website from March 2016. In the past decade, 581 Bhutanese refugees have come to call Twin Falls home. Since 1990, Bhutan has undergone significant and pivotal changes. Wangchuk successfully transitioned the country into a constitutional monarchy, relinquishing some of his power as king to a governing council. In 2006, he abdicated his throne to his eldest son, Crown Prince Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuk, who still rules to this day. Because he holds no documents that specify his citizenship as Bhutanese, Tamang may never be able return to his home country. He does plan to visit Nepal this upcoming year to see family members still living in the refugee camps. Many of them await a chance to come to the U.S. Bhutan was once viewed as the trendsetter of happiness. Wangchuks gross national happiness set a standard that other countries sought to emulate. In April 2012, the first World Happiness Report was released. Data was gathered through citizen surveys that ranked countries on a multitude of factors such as social support, gross domestic product per capita, generosity and perceptions of corruption. The 2019 World Happiness Report which includes data from 156 countries from 2016-18 ranks the U.S. as the 19th happiest country in the world. Bhutan ranked 95th. The U.S. is the land of opportunity, Tamang said. We wanted something better, and here we are able to get that. From being a second-rate citizen to getting a second chance at life, Tamang is thankful for everything America has given him. He has a house to call his own. His children are happy and healthy. He is steadily employed and able to provide for his loved ones. Fifteen years ago, we did not have anything, he said. We had to struggle to survive. Now we have everything we need. Love 4 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 At about 3:25 p.m., Rosezetta M. Crooks, 81, was driving a 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser east on 1010 South, just south of Interstate 84 near 1400 East in Jerome County, when she tried to pass a 1992 Ford F150 pickup pulling a trailer loaded with irrigation lines, ISP said. Crooks car hit the irrigation lines as the pickup and trailer pulled into a driveway, sending the car off the road, where it hit a wheel line. When Denis Palamarchuk, a trucker from Portland, Oregon, presented his bill of lading for 6,700 pounds of industrial hemp to officials at the Idaho port of entry on Jan. 24, he surely never dreamed of the nightmare that lay ahead. Hemp had been legalized federally under the 2018 Farm Bill, and was legal in nearly every other state. Just last week, tests were publicized regarding the green, leafy cargo in question, and it was proven to be hemp with THC levels under 0.3 percent. But that hasnt helped Mr. Palamarchuk, because Idaho draws no distinction between hemp and marijuana. The Idaho State Police gleefully declared this the biggest marijuana bust in state history, and prosecutors brought charges carrying a mandatory five-year sentence no possibility of parole. He joins two other truck drivers who are awaiting sentencing for driving industrial hemp through Idaho. We are legislators representing different parties, but we agree on the basic principle that your tax dollars should never be used to perpetrate injustice. We are on the brink of such injustice should these drivers be imprisoned or saddled with criminal records hampering future employment (and disqualifying them from commercial drivers licenses). There are two major flaws in Idahos laws that have led to this outrageous situation. One is that Idaho draws no distinction between hemp and marijuana. The other is that Idaho allows judges no discretion whatsoever to set an appropriate sentence where drug trafficking is concerned, but instead imposes mandatory minimum sentences. Last session, we co-sponsored two bills which, had they passed, would have improved Idahos laws dramatically. First, we tried to legalize the transport, sale and farming of hemp to bring Idaho in line with federal and nearly every other state law. Most importantly, the bill would have conformed to federal removal of hemp from Schedule I of the Controlled Substances Act. Hemp is not a mind-altering drug it is a versatile crop used for food, clothing, lotions, paper and more. The first American flag made by Betsy Ross was made from industrial hemp. Yet despite strong, bipartisan passage through the House, it ultimately died when the Senate, at the request of law enforcement, gutted the bill to the point that most sponsors abandoned it. Second, we tried to reform mandatory minimum sentencing laws, so that a judge would have the power NOT to sentence Mr. Palamarchuk to five years in prison. Had he committed arson, robbery, kidnapping, or virtually any other crime, the judge would have discretion in sentencing. But, because this is considered drug trafficking, the judges hands are completely tied. Our bill passed with a bipartisan supermajority through the House, but was denied even a hearing in the Senate by Chairman Todd Lakey. Now, three hapless truck drivers face the cruel consequences of the Legislatures inaction. At this point, the only way they can go on with their lives without prison time or a criminal record is if the Ada County Prosecutor decides to drop charges. She could do this tomorrow if she so chose; Idahos laws have taken the power and discretion from judges and given it to prosecutors. Over 2,000 Idahoans have already signed a petition on Change.org, asking for charges to be dropped. We have signed it, and we hope you will too. And we will keep working to improve our laws so this never happens again. Rep. Ilana Rubel is a Democrat from Boise. Rep. Dorothy Moon is a Republican from Stanley. Love 1 Funny 1 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 The Trump administrations latest really bad idea, in service to the fossil fuel industry and big business in general, is to relax safety standards on offshore oil rigs that were imposed to prevent another catastrophe like the Deepwater Horizon explosion. As with the protections imposed on banks after the 2007-08 economic meltdown, this administration views these regulations as unnecessary, burdensome and restrictive on commerce. Yet, amazingly, banks managed not to suffocate and die as a result of the post-meltdown regulations. In fact, they flourished. Big Oil, likewise, continues to enjoy massive profits despite the safety standards the White House is now trying to gut. Its not that we like the idea of regulations for the sake of regulating; we just hate worker fatalities, oil spills, dead sea animals and massive environmental damage. It was just over nine years ago that the Deepwater Horizon offshore drilling platform exploded in the Gulf of Mexico, killing 11 workers. For months afterward, the damaged well below the rig spewed some 200 million gallons of oil into the ocean, making it the worst offshore oil spill in U.S. history. Sea mammals, turtles and other species in the Gulf coastal region still havent fully recovered. Following the disaster, the Obama administration imposed tough new rules on deep-water drilling. They focused in large part on devices meant to prevent blowouts of the ocean-floor wells, the failure of which is what caused the explosion and subsequent spill. Its those rules that President Donald Trumps Department of the Interior is now dismantling at the behest of the same oil industry that so tragically botched its responsibility to its workers and the environment. Among other changes, the reversal of the Obama-era rules will reduce the frequency and duration of safety tests. They will scrap the design changes the government mandated in the apparatus thats supposed to prevent blowouts. And they will allow the oil companies to use third-party companies for inspections instead of government inspectors a virtual invitation to put foxes in charge of the chicken coop. The administrations hostility toward environmental concerns, and its slavish dedication to anything the oil industry wants, has already manifested itself in Trumps appointment, confirmed barely a month ago, of former oil lobbyist David Bernhardt as head of Interior. The most dire warnings about the damage this walking conflict of interest might usher in sure didnt take long to come true. Its bad enough this White House is hindering the fight to address climate change, which Trump and other science deniers have, against all data, claimed is based on hysterical predictions. Now theyre ignoring dangers that have already played out in front of the whole world. Should more oil rig workers, and more of the environment, fall victim to another Deepwater Horizon catastrophe, let there be no question about where the blame belongs. Love 1 Funny 1 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 BOISE Feeling lucky? Time to apply for fall controlled hunts for deer, elk, pronghorn and fall black bear. The application period runs through June 5. Resident Idaho hunters pay a $6.25 application fee, and nonresident applications are $14.75. To apply, call 1-800-554-8685 or go to idfg.idaho.gov/license/applications or visit a license vendor or a Fish and Game office. Mail-in applications are no longer accepted. You will need a 2019 hunting license to apply for a controlled hunt. A full list of the hundreds of controlled hunts offered can be found in the 2019-2020 Big Game Seasons and Rules booklet, available at idfg.idaho.gov/sites/default/files/seasons-rules-big-game-2019-2020.pdf or at a license vendor or a Fish and Game office. If youre a new hunter, or new to Idaho, ten reasons why you should consider applying for a controlled big game hunt are available at idfg.idaho.gov/press/ten-reasons-why-you-should-consider-applying-controlled-big-game-hunt. You can also research last years drawing odds for controlled hunts on Fish and Games Hunt Planner at idfg.idaho.gov/ifwis/huntplanner/odds/. Increase your chances for hunting deer, elk and pronghorn by entering the Super Hunt drawing. Go to idfg.idaho.gov/superhunt. Drawing winners will be notified by July 10. The Super Hunt program is a separate and smaller pool of big game tags. For $6 per entry, a hunter can get added chances for controlled hunts, except black bear, because a Super Hunt tag is good for any controlled or general hunt for that specific species. Residents and nonresidents can enter the Super Hunt drawing without purchasing a license first. Hunters can apply for Super Hunts at the same places they apply for other controlled hunts. Unlike the controlled hunt applications, hunters can enter as many times as they want for Super Hunt tags. There are eight tags each for deer, elk and pronghorn, along with one moose tag. All will be drawn in June. Theres also one Super Hunt Combo up for grabs, which provides the lucky winner with one tag each for deer, elk, pronghorn and moose. Entries for the Super Hunt combo are $20 each, and hunters can enter for the combo as many times as you like. The deadline for the first Super Hunt drawing is May 31, which is sooner than the controlled hunt deadline on June 5. Theres a second Super Hunt drawing in August. So what happens if you draw both a controlled hunt and a Super Hunt tag? Well, youre one lucky hunter. The Super Hunt tag is considered an extra tag, so you would have two tags to enjoy the best hunting experience Idaho has to offer. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 TWIN FALLS Presenter Mike Kingston got the fly-fishing bug over 50 years ago at age 15, and has been tying flies for 48 years. Hes not sure whether he ties flies to fish, or if he fishes to tie flies. Mike lived and fished the Redding, California area and made numerous trips to Eastern Idaho. His next stop was fly fishing all over Tennessee for 11 years before moving to Southern Idaho. With his trout tricks from the west and warm water flies and skills honed in the south, Kingston will share his tackle, techniques and fine flies for Riding the Fence for smallmouth bass and big bluegill (and maybe a trout or two) in Idaho. Mikes Dalberg-Diver version was the logo fly for the 2019 Boise Valley Fly Fishers Expo. We welcome all fly fishers and those wanting to learn. Members are how and why we exist to enhance your fly fishing fun. Please renew or join to help us continue as the only fly fishing resource in Twin Falls. Call/text 208-934-6405 or send questions to mvffeditor2014@hotmail.com or bryswood@juno.com. Visit magicvalleyflyfishers.com to join or renew online and gain access to our growing members only section to connect with other members and to wade in a little deeper and get better immersed in fly fishing in the Magic Valley. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 An electron micrograph of the measles virus. Credit: CDC/ Courtesy of Cynthia S. Goldsmith Could a computer model pinpoint where measles outbreaks are likely to occur? That's exactly what researchers did, accurately predicting some of the U.S. regions where measles might spread. Their predictions included counties in New York, Washington state and Oregon, where measles outbreaks are already raging. In total, 25 counties were identified as measles-prone. Not only that, most of the counties that have reported measles cases as of April 2019 are among those 25 counties or next to one of them, according to the researchers. The recent surge in measles is due to a combination of travelers returning from countries with measles outbreaks, and low vaccination rates in certain regions of the United States fueled by the anti-vaccination movement, the researchers said. "There has been a resurgence of measles cases, among other vaccine-preventable diseases, in the U.S. and other countries in recent years," said study co-corresponding author Lauren Gardner, an associate professor of civil engineering at Johns Hopkins University. "Measles, in particular, poses a serious public health threat due to the highly contagious nature of the disease," Gardner added in a university news release. "It is therefore critical that we proactively identify areas most likely to experience outbreaks to strategically target for surveillance and control." The 25 counties considered at risk for measles outbreaks were: Cook (Illinois) Los Angeles (California) Miami-Dade (Florida) Queens (New York) King (Washington state) Maricopa (Arizona) Broward (Florida) Clark (Nevada) Harris (Texas) Honolulu (Hawaii) Wayne (Michigan) Tarrant (Texas) Multnomah (Oregon) Orange (Florida) Essex (New Jersey) Denver (Colorado) Hillsborough (Florida) San Mateo (California) Salt Lake (Utah) Suffolk (Massachusetts) Clayton (Georgia) Travis (Texas) Hennepin (Minnesota) Loudoun (Virginia) San Diego (California). As of late April, there have been more than 700 cases of measles reported in the United States this year, the highest number in decades. Measles was officially eliminated from this country in 2000, but this high number of cases shows that the nation remains at risk. For the analysis, the researchers examined international air travel volume, non-medical exemptions from childhood vaccinations, population data and reported measles outbreaks. "Anti-vaxxers are denying the best and very successful medical science we have and choosing instead to rely on fraudulent claims, such as a purported link to autism, that have been uniformly debunked by evidence and analysis over the last two decades," said study co-corresponding author Sahotra Sarkar, a professor of philosophy and integrative biology at the University of Texas at Austin. As well as identifying the 25 U.S. counties at greatest risk for measles outbreaks, the researchers pinpointed the countries that contribute most to measles risk in the United States: India, China, Mexico, Japan, Ukraine, Philippines and Thailand. "Our prediction is aligned with multiple counties that have experienced measles outbreaks this year. Critically, we recommend that public health officials and policymakers prioritize monitoring the counties we identify to be at high risk that have not yet reported cases, especially those that lie adjacent to counties with ongoing outbreaks and those that house large international airports," Gardner said. U.S. health officials should focus on areas where there is strong resistance to vaccination resistance, as well as regions with high numbers of travelers returning from measles-affected countries, according to Sarkar. The analysis was published May 9 in The Lancet Infectious Diseases journal. Copyright 2019 HealthDay. All rights reserved. The rhetoric around vaccination is generally black and white: vaccines are good or vaccines are bad. But now more than ever, its important to find ways to communicate across the vaccine echo chamber. Photo: Bill Smith/Flickr CC The rhetoric around vaccination is generally black and white: vaccines are good or vaccines are bad. In these days of Facebook and Twitter, it is easy enough to block out the opinions of those you disagree with, and only associate with people whose voices reinforce your own opinions. These echo chambers have real-world implications; currently, the U.S. is in the midst of its largest measles outbreak in decades. That's why it's important to find ways to communicate across the divide. While the overwhelming majority of the scientific and medical communities (including the authors of this article) agree that vaccines are extremely safe and effective, and that the benefits far outweigh the risks, it is important to note that there have been, on rare occasions, events where certain vaccines have been recalled, and there are very rare occasions when anaphylactic events can occur after vaccination. Failing to admit that these events can occur fuels the anti-vaccination community further in their dangerous rhetoric and pushes them deeper into the echo chambers that exacerbate vaccine denialism. It is important for vaccine advocates to stop completely discounting these fears as impossible and to reframe their argument in a way that acknowledges the fears but underscores the importance, efficacy, and safety of vaccination on the whole, despite the risks. Many who are on the fence about vaccination are worried about the potential consequences of vaccines; they've heard stories about children having severe immunologic reactions or dangerously high fevers after their shots; they're enticed by anecdotes about children who were vaccinated one day and severely impaired the next. Most of these stories come from a misunderstanding of the common scientific axiom, "correlation does not equal causation," and carry little to no weight in arguments against vaccinating. Many of the stories are also lies fabricated by the most vocal vaccine deniers and profiteers seeking to further their own dangerous agendas. But every once in a while, a story will carry some legitimacy, and it does vaccine advocates no good to dismiss them as impossible. Instead of outright dismissing the claims, it would benefit the pro-vaccine community to acknowledge that sometimes, albeit rarely, mistakes occur, and to focus on what the scientific community does to ensure safety, how infrequent these events actually are, and how the benefits of vaccines still significantly outweigh the risks. In fact, when mistakes do occur, the products are removed from the market immediately and the kinks are worked out, further evidence that the system works well. Vaccine advocates should feel comfortable with these conversations and instead of shutting them down; those whose fears are dismissed will look for another outlet to vent their frustration, convinced the medical community and government are engaging in a conspiratorial cover-up, and if they cannot find a place to have a civil discussion about it in an evidence-driven environment, they will often seek confirmation from those whose agendas are nefarious: enter the anti-vax echo chambers. Many of these echo chamberslike Facebook's "Vaccine Resistance Movement," "Vaccine Re-education Discussion Forum," and "Vaccine Truth Movement" groups, for examplehave tens of thousands of followers. Where do they come from? Much of the blame can be placed on profiteers: those who seek to profit off the ignorance and fears of parents and others. Andrew Wakefield, whose retracted Lancet article claimed there was a link between the MMR vaccine and autism, is a textbook profiteer who intended to profit from his own measles vaccine and treatment, for which he filed a patent application. Even after his medical license was revoked because of fraudulent, unethical methods and conflict of interest, he continues to profit from his hoax. In 2016, he and other big-name anti-vaccine profiteers directed the propagandistic documentary Vaxxed, which makes the same spurious claims as Wakefield's original Lancet article and raked in almost $1.2 million. Or consider Larry Cook, who runs a group called Stop Mandatory Vaccination. He has made almost $80,000 from anti-vaccination GoFundMe campaigns, which he freely admits go "directly" to his bank account and "may be used to pay [his] personal bills." Profiteers are responsible for gatekeeping many of the staunch anti-vaccine communities found on social media, where anyone who expresses an opinion contrary to theirs is attacked and banned from the group in order to keep the echo chamber as tight as possible. It is through these echo chambers that profiteers continue profiting; they sell their own books and alternative lifestyles and bankroll from GoFundMe campaigns. Any dissenting voice is a threat to their finances, so they encourage intense groupthink and mob mentality. It is our goal as public health professionalsand should be the goal of every scientifically-minded, pro-evidence personto keep those on the fence about vaccines as far away from the echo chambers as possible. Foresight is important: understand the commonly used tropes they may use, and know how to combat them with evidence and reason instead of shutting them down. Unfortunate as it may be, it is on all of us to steer the conversation in the direction science has told us is safe and effective for decades. We must do what we can to prevent the echo chambers from growing. Explore further Vaccine wars: Social media battle outbreak of bogus claims Provided by Earth Institute, Columbia University This story is republished courtesy of Earth Institute, Columbia University http://blogs.ei.columbia.edu. Killer T cells surround a cancer cell. Credit: NIH Scientists in Salford, UK have found a way to make cancer stem cells reproduce defectively "like cars without engines". Professor Michael Lisanti, of the University of Salford, said his team had successfully trialled a method of tricking the cells into manufacturing new cells with no power source. "They can't generate any energy, so they can't proliferate" he said liking the process to "creating a factory recall on a grand scale." They achieved the result using cheap, FDA-approved drugs and a common vitamin. A 'triple combination' of Vitamin C and two standard antibiotics Doxycycline and Azithromycinwas sufficient to reduce stem cell growth by more than 90 percent in laboratory tests. The scientists said they were stunned by the results which are published in the journal Aging this week. Cancer stem-like cells are thought to be the root cause of chemotherapy resistance, leading to treatment failure in patients with advanced disease and the trigger of tumour recurrence and metastasis (regrowth and secondary cancer). The University of Salford team's research focuses on the energetics of cancer stem cellsthe processes which allow the cells to live and thrive with a view to disrupting their metabolism. Lisanti with Professor Federica Sotgia carried out trials in 2018 of the antibiotic Doxycycline on cancer reoccurrence in hospital patients resulting in a 40 percent reduction in cancer stem cells in patients, with a near 90 percent response rate. Professor Lisanti, chair of translational medicine, said: "A 40 percent average reduction encouraging but we were interested in the other 60 percent, so we're interested in new drug combinations to maximise the effects of the Doxycycline. "Once we saw Doxycycline was effective at targeting mitochondria within stem cells, the challenge was on to find an even more effective combination which we believe we have found with Azithromycin." In laboratory tests, they found the two antibiotics could be used to target the production of 13 key mitochondrial proteins which cuts off the fuel supply in the stem cells. And they found that Vitamin C, acting as a mild pro-oxidant, amplifies the effects. "What this combination does is speed up the production of new mitochondria but at the same time makes them functionally inactive. So, new mitochondria are unable to generate ATP, the currency of the cell," explained Prof Sotgia. "It's like making thousands of new cars without the necessary engine parts. They don't work." The team emphasise that their combination is cheap, and readily and because the dosages of antibiotics are vanishingly small (1 M), the method avoids the potential problem of antibiotic resistance. Explore further Antibiotic effective in breast cancer clinical trial More information: Marco Fiorillo et al. Doxycycline, Azithromycin and Vitamin C (DAV): A potent combination therapy for targeting mitochondria and eradicating cancer stem cells (CSCs), Aging (2019). Marco Fiorillo et al. Doxycycline, Azithromycin and Vitamin C (DAV): A potent combination therapy for targeting mitochondria and eradicating cancer stem cells (CSCs),(2019). DOI: 10.18632/aging.101905 Dr. Mingxiong Huang prepares to do a MEG brain scan on a 'healthy control' who has participated in his neuroimaging research. Credit: Kevin Walsh A new study funded by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and the Navy finds that veterans and service members with a history of combat-related mild traumatic brain injurycompared with those in a control grouphave much higher levels of abnormally fast brain waves in a region that plays a key role in consciousness. The findings appeared in the journal Cerebral Cortex in May 2019. Using a neuroimaging process called MEG, the researchers concluded that the fast, or high-frequency, gamma waves were "markedly elevated" in two of the four lobes of the cerebral cortex: the pre-frontal and posterior parietal lobes. Those two lobes affect reasoning, organization, planning, execution, attention, and problem-solving. Dr. Mingxiong Huang, a physicist at the VA San Diego Healthcare System, led the study. He's done a series of papers on brain activity in relation to mild TBI and PTSD and is one of VA's leading investigators using MEG. The neuroimaging tool can detect abnormal waves in specific areas of the brain. MEG stands for magnetoencephalography. A MEG scanner records magnetic fields created by electrical currents in the brain. Huang says the abnormally fast gamma waves could cause poorer cognitive functioning. "The widespread nature and magnitude of the elevated gamma activity in the mild TBI participants was beyond our original expectations," he says. "We expected more subtle elevation. The marked elevation suggests there is widespread and pronounced injury in neurons of the central nervous system that play a key role in brain circuitry and activity. This finding offers a new and exciting tool for directly assessing the dysfunctional neurons in people with mild TBI and may explain many of their clinical symptoms and cognitive deficits." Brain waves are produced by masses of neurons that communicate with each other. Gamma waves are the fastest of brain waves and relate to the simultaneous processing of information from different brain areas. Gamma waves measure between 30 and 80 hertz, with approximately 40 hertz being typical in humans. Hertz, or Hz, is the metric unit of frequency and equals one cycle per second. Beta waves dominate one's waking state of consciousness, when attention is directed toward cognitive tasks. Alpha waves are present during quietly flowing thoughts. Theta waves occur most often in sleep when one is dreaming. Finally, delta waves are slow brain waves that are generated in deep meditation and dreamless sleep. Huang was also surprised that brain wave activity was lower in the participants with mild TBI in the ventromedial prefrontal cortex, which is central to the pathology of mood and anxiety disorders. That region is also critical for controlling activity in the amygdala, which processes such emotions as fear, anxiety, and aggression. "We expected to instead see hyperactivity in the ventromedial prefrontal cortex of those with mild TBI," says Huang, who is also a professor in the department of radiology at the University of California San Diego (UCSD). "This indicates that injury to neurons that transmit impulses between other neurons can also lead to decreases in spontaneous activity in brain waves. This suggests that there were severe injuries to the ventromedial prefrontal cortex." This is the first study, Huang says, to show that mild combat-related head injuries are likely to result in abnormally high levels of gamma waves in people with chronic mild TBI. The reduced brain activity in the ventromedial prefrontal cortex is also a new finding, he says. Traumatic brain injury is the signature injury from the post-9-11 conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan. The Department of Defense and the Defense and Veterans Brain Injury Center estimate that 22% of combat casualties from Iraq and Afghanistan involve TBIs, most of which are mild in severity. Mild TBIs are also called concussions. TBI symptoms include headaches, irritability, sleep disorders, memory lapses, slower thinking, and depression. In recent years, Huang and other MEG researchers have learned that the brains of people with mild TBI generate abnormal slow waves. His latest study expands the knowledge of abnormality to fast gamma waves in people with mild TBI. MEG imaging is a promising marker for detecting specific regions of the brain that are impaired by a mild TBI, with an 85% accuracy rate. More conventional imaging tools, such as a CT scan or structural MRI, have an accuracy rate of only about 5% in detecting mild TBI. "This makes MEG a good functional imaging technique not only for assisting in the diagnosis of mild TBI, but also for assessing the efficiency of mild TBI treatments, such as drugs," Huang says. However, MEG-based studies are rare, most likely because only 20 to 30 MEG scanners are available in the United States. In addition to VA San Diego, VA medical centers in Minneapolis, Albuquerque, Boston, Seattle, Philadelphia, and San Francisco have performed MEG research. Recent animal studies have showed that injury to neurons that play a key role in brain circuitry and activity led to abnormal increases in fast brain waves. Thus, Huang and his team believed that by detecting spontaneous hyperactivity in fast brain waves, they could assess the level of injury to brain circuitry. The latter may be directly related to cognitive deficits, he notes. In the study, 25 of the participants were active-duty military or veterans who had fought in Iraq or Afghanistan. They had all sustained at least one mild TBI that resulted in persistent post-concussive symptoms for an average of 20 months. The control group included 35 people with combat experience but with no notable history of concussions. All of the participants were in a resting state during the MEG recordings, which were conducted at UCSD. At the same time, the scientists made major efforts to ensure that the participants were alert. Being drowsy, Huang says, could reduce the high frequency gamma activity and thus lower the sensitivity of the MEG measurements. Huang and his colleagues plan to expand this research from a group comparison to a single-subject-based approach. That will call for using resting-state MEG procedures to investigate where the abnormal gamma waves emanate from in each person with mild TBI. For a person with mild TBI, the abnormal waves may be from just one or two lobes in the cerebral cortex, not from all four, he says. "To achieve this, we'll need to study more people in both the mild TBI and healthy control groups," he says. The findings from his most recent study, he says, can be used to help with brain stimulation techniques as a therapy for mild TBI, such as transcranial electrical stimulation (TES) and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). Results from the study suggest that effective targets for TES and TMS treatments are likely to be the pre-frontal cortex and posterior parietal cortex. Huang and his team are currently working with two TES companies to gain approval of their brain stimulation instruments by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Dr. David Cifu is the principal investigator at the Chronic Effects of Neurotrauma Consortium, a joint project of VA and the Department of Defense that researches the impact of combat blasts on the human brain. He believes Huang's findings should be further explored over a long period with many participants. "Dr. Huang and his research group have a history of identifying reasons for persistent symptoms from combat-associated concussions," Cifu says. "Their most recent study sheds light on another potential cause for increased resting-state gamma activity. While several factors in both the control and concussed groups need to be more fully evaluated, such as the lifetime history of concussions, substance or alcohol use, and mental illness, this is an important observation that should be assessed in a large, longitudinal cohort using a more rigorous approach. That includes blinding the MEG analyzers to the participants' histories and repeating the MEG procedure at least two times, three to six months apart. I look forward to seeing the findings from this work." Explore further Research suggests mild traumatic brain injury common in veterans with mental health needs More information: Ming-Xiong Huang et al. Marked Increases in Resting-State MEG Gamma-Band Activity in Combat-Related Mild Traumatic Brain Injury, Cerebral Cortex (2019). Journal information: Cerebral Cortex Ming-Xiong Huang et al. Marked Increases in Resting-State MEG Gamma-Band Activity in Combat-Related Mild Traumatic Brain Injury,(2019). DOI: 10.1093/cercor/bhz087 Provided by Veterans Affairs Research Communications (HealthDay)Patients with psoriasis have an increased risk for mental disorders, with time to onset starting within two to three months after diagnosis, according to two research letters published online May 8 in JAMA Dermatology. Michelle Z. Leisner, M.P.H., from Aarhus University Hospital in Denmark, and colleagues examined the correlation between psoriasis and subsequent development of mental health disorders among 13,675 individuals with psoriasis and population-comparison cohort members. The researchers found that for any mental disorder, the 5- and 10-year cumulative incidences were 2.6 and 4.9 percent, respectively. Relative to the general population cohort, the hazard ratio for any mental disorder was 1.75. For selected mental disorders, the hazard ratios were 1.73 for vascular dementia, 1.64 for schizophrenia, 2.33 for bipolar disorder, 1.72 for unipolar depression, 1.88 for generalized anxiety disorder, and 2.06 for personality disorders. Chul Hwan Bang, M.D., from The Catholic University of Korea in Seoul, and colleagues used data from South Korea's Health Insurance Research and Assessment Agency to examine how long it takes for mental health comorbidities to appear after psoriasis diagnosis. The study population included 12,762 patients with psoriasis. Compared with controls, the researchers found that the risks for depressive episodes, anxiety disorders, somatoform disorders, neurotic disorders, and nonorganic sleep disorders were 2.19, 2.92, 2.62, 2.66, and 2.58 times higher, respectively, in patients with psoriasis. The times to onset were 196.7, 86.1, 86.3, 224.2, and 94.2 days, respectively. "Early initiation of appropriate treatment for skin diseases is important in decreasing mental health comorbidities," write the authors of an accompanying editorial. "Even in our fast-paced clinics, screening for mental disorders in high-risk populations can be worthwhile." One author from the Leisner study disclosed financial ties to the pharmaceutical industry; a second author reports a patent pending. Explore further Younger adults with inflammatory disease at greater risk of anxiety and depression new study Copyright 2019 HealthDay. All rights reserved. Research by Klajdi Puka, an Epidemiology and Biostatistics PhD candidate, has uncovered the potential for long-term mental-health challenges impacting the mothers of diagnosed children. These findings, he said, are a call for a stronger focus on the full family environment after a childs diagnosis. Credit: Paul Mayne//Western News Doctors should consider a "family diagnosis" when it comes to treating children with epilepsy, as recent research has uncovered the potential for long-term mental-health challenges impacting the mothers of diagnosed children. According to a new study by Western and Lawson Health Research Institute, 57 percent of mothers of children with epilepsy were at risk for "a major depressive disorder" at some point during the decade after diagnosis. As well, 20 percent of mothers were at risk for depression at the time of their child's diagnosis and at each follow-up assessment. The findings, which included 356 mothers of children with epilepsy, are part of a larger project from Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry professor Kathy Nixon Speechley, studying family outcomes over a 10-year period. The study, "Prevalence and trajectories of depressive symptoms among mothers of children with newly diagnosed epilepsy: A longitudinal 10-year study," was recently published in the journal Epilepsia. Klajdi Puka, an Epidemiology and Biostatistics Ph.D. candidate who conducted this research under Speechley, said depressive symptoms for most mothers remained steady over the decade. "The scores were very stable throughout the follow up period. They reported depression symptoms 10 years later, similar to at the beginning of this study," Puka said. Somewhat surprisingly, that held true for mothers even when their children were seizure free for more than five years. "You would think that would show some impact in the moms' depressive symptoms. But that didn't seem to be the case. That could suggest the course of a mother's mental health and depression may not necessarily be associated with the course of the child's seizure control." Puka said research has found a positive family environment at the time of diagnosis was consistently associated with better long-term outcomes. Family environment was assessed using factors like supportive nature, extended social support and satisfaction with family relationships. "The parent is primarily concerned about the child, obviously, and would put their health second to their child," he explained. But just giving the parent information to read, for example, won't solve the problem. Puka noted physicians need to consider a course of action not just for the child, but for the entire support system. "If the parents and support system are not doing well, it will also affect the child. We need to increase education that parents are also affected and their persistent mental-health problems do impact the child. It should be a family diagnosis." Research has shown 80 percent of children with epilepsy may have cognitive and psychiatric conditions, as well as the simultaneous presence of two chronic diseases or conditions, which may go untreated or undiagnosed. While these conditions, and the epilepsy itself, won't change, the family environment can. The research team is now expanding on its work by piloting an eight-week intervention program for both children with epilepsy and their parents. This community-based treatment program will be delivered to 100 families of children with epilepsy, focusing on mindful awareness, social-emotional learning skills, neuroscience and positive psychology. Puka recently received a $5,000 fellowship grant from the Canadian Mental Health Association to continue his research into the long-term mental-health implications of childhood-onset epilepsy. He estimates more than 15,000 youth with epilepsy in Ontario stand to benefit from targeted interventions. "We need to work to address this," Puka said. "The results of the study suggest family environment could be a key target for intervention due to its effects on parental, as well as children's, mental health. We hope these findings will emphasize the importance of going beyond treating the child and focusing on the family as a whole." Explore further Maternal depression adversely affects quality of life in children with epilepsy More information: Klajdi Puka et al. Prevalence and trajectories of depressive symptoms among mothers of children with newly diagnosed epilepsy: A longitudinal 10year study, Epilepsia (2019). Journal information: Epilepsia Klajdi Puka et al. Prevalence and trajectories of depressive symptoms among mothers of children with newly diagnosed epilepsy: A longitudinal 10year study,(2019). DOI: 10.1111/epi.14638 Credit: CC0 Public Domain When a child has cancer, what kind of information do parents seek out? Analyzing their online searches to obtain health-related information offers one window into their concerns, and provides insight into how healthcare providers may offer family education and support. Oncology researchers who investigated parents' online Google searches found that, among other things, parents frequently focus on ways to best support their child and on logistical issues, such as directions to medical centers and appropriate pharmacies. "There's been a lot of research into what people say they want to find online, but little is known about the specific, granular details that parents of cancer patients seek out," said study leader Charles A. Phillips, MD, a pediatric oncologist at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP). "To our knowledge, this is the first study of online Google searches by parents of children with cancer." Phillips and colleagues published a pilot study online today in Pediatric Blood and Cancer. The study team enrolled 21 parents (17 of them mothers) of children diagnosed with cancer at CHOP in the summer of 2017. The parents consented to share their Google search histories from the time of study enrollment during their child's cancer treatment to a retrospective time point, six months before the child was diagnosed. After enrollment, other members of the research team, who did not know the identities of patients or families, coded searches into categories and further analyzed the findings. As may have been expected, parents performed health-related searches at over twice the rate performed by the general population13 percent versus 5 percent of total Google searches. Parents' Google use peaks at about one month after cancer diagnosis. Eighteen percent of health-related searches (about 1,900 out of 11,000) were cancer-specific, and over half of the cancer-specific searches were for cancer support, such as queries for cancer charities and inspirational quotations. Among the overall health-related searches, 31 percent were for "symptoms, disease and medical information," followed closely by 29 percent for "information about hospital/care sites/pharmacy." Phillips added that healthcare providers, administrators and web designers need to remember the importance of parents' day-to-day logistical concerns, such as traffic and parking directions, or locating pharmacies that carry pediatric formulations of the medicines prescribed for their child. Another notable finding, said Phillips, was the uptick in symptom searches in the months before a child was actually diagnosed. That accords with his own experience: "Every time I meet with parents for the first time after a diagnosis, they tell me, 'I knew that something wasn't right.'" Going forward, the study findings could inform family support and education, said Phillips. For example, hospitals might design educational interventions to help parents better navigate the internet for cancer information, and researchers could evaluate such interventions in a randomized trial. However, he cautioned against overgeneralizing from the current small, single-center study. Next steps in this field would require organizing larger studies, possibly covering a broader variety of cancers, or a larger range of online information sources. He suggested a future paired study to investigate how adolescent patients search for health information, compared to how their parents search. More information: Charles A. Phillips et al, Healthrelated Google searches performed by parents of pediatric oncology patients, Pediatric Blood & Cancer (2019). Charles A. Phillips et al, Healthrelated Google searches performed by parents of pediatric oncology patients,(2019). DOI: 10.1002/pbc.27795 Using capsules filled with fecal matter from a lean donor, researchers successfully changed some of the composition of the gut microbiota of patients with obesity, a possible step toward a new treatment for weight loss. In the first randomized controlled trial of fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) in metabolically healthy people with obesity, researchers presenting at Digestive Disease Week (DDW) 2019 said they were encouraged they could induce changes among the trillions of microorganisms and their genetic material within the intestinal tract. "In our clinic, we see patients who really don't have any other medical problems, but just cannot lose weight. It is a very important patient population that we really wanted to give focus to and try to help understand," said Jessica Allegretti, MD, lead author of the study and director of the Fecal Microbiota Transplant Program at Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston. The pilot study included 22 patients with obesity but did not have any other health issues commonly associated with obesity, such as diabetes or liver disease. During the 12-week study, half the patients took capsules containing fecal matter from a lean donor and the rest took identical-looking placebo capsules. Researchers then looked for changes in a gut hormone, glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP1), which is linked to the satiety reflex, the feeling that you've eaten enough, and is associated with weight gain and loss. Potential weight loss was a secondary focus of the study. While initial trial results did not show differences in the GLP1 hormone or weight loss, researchers said they were very pleased to detect other changes in the microbiota of FMT recipients, including a decrease in a specific bile acid and alterations in stool samples that showed increased similarity to those of the lean donor. "Our study adds an encouraging first step in trying to understand the role the gut microbiome is playing in metabolically healthy people with obesity," Dr. Allegretti said. "This will hopefully lend itself to more targeted therapies in the future." Researchers said they plan to seek more sensitive measures of GLP1 and, with additional research, look at varied dosages of fecal material and other mechanisms to better understand the role of the microbiome in obesity. Animal models have previously shown that obese mice can be made lean and lean mice made obese by changing their gut microbiota. Previous human trials of FMT transplant have shown improvement in insulin resistance in the liver in patients with metabolic syndrome. "The bile acid data is certainly intriguing and suggests that maybe there are one or more different pathways at play," Dr. Allegretti added. "Obesity is a very complex disorder, and a multifactorial process is probably at the heart of its development." Finch Therapeutics, of Somerville, Massachusetts, provided funding for the research. Explore further Fecal transplant success for diabetes might depend on the recipient's gut microbes More information: Dr. Allegretti will present data from the study, "Fecal microbiota transplantation for the treatment of obesity: a randomized, placebo-controlled pilot Trial," abstract 620, on Monday, May 20, at 10 a.m. PDT. Provided by Digestive Disease Week Hematologists are zeroing in on the escalating humanitarian crisis in southern Europe by assessing the burden of blood disorders among refugees and identifying strategies to facilitate more timely identification and treatment of refugees with sickle cell disease (SCD). A study from an Italian research team published today in Blood suggests SCD is common among refugees and screening efforts should be increased. SCD is an inherited disorder that affects the production of hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells that delivers oxygen to cells throughout the body. This abnormal hemoglobin can cause red blood cells to become rigid and sickle shaped. The cells stick together and can block the flow of blood and oxygen throughout the body, leading to intense pain and other serious issues such as stroke, infection, pulmonary complications, and even death. Experts stress that, for migrants with known or undiagnosed SCD, the extreme conditions during their travelsdehydration, psychological stress, and exposure to very high or low temperaturescan trigger severe pain crises. Delays in care can lead to severe organ complications and death. Researchers led by Lucia De Franceschi, MD, of the University of Verona in Italy, found that the vast majority of migrants arriving to Italy are from areas where SCD is highly prevalent, notably sub-Saharan countries, which consistently report the highest burden of SCD globally. In fact, an estimated 80 percent of all newborns with SCD are born in this region, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Even though SCD is endemic to these areas and has been identified as a global health priority by the African Union and the World Health Organization, there is currently no screening program. Based on their analysis of 2014-2017 data from 13 Italian reference centers, SCD was relatively common in refugees, and it was primarily identified when individuals went to emergency departments for acute sickle cell-related events. De Franceschi reports the rates of anemia were higher among refugees than in the native Italian SCD population, which could be due to malnutrition. A total of 70 patients with hemoglobin disorders were identified, the majority of whom were male. Half were adults with the median age of 21 years and the other half were children. Most came from West African countries Senegal and Nigeria, as well as Morocco, Egypt, and Tunisia in North Africa, and Syria in the Middle East. During this same four-year period, researchers report a total of 624,688 refugees arrived on the Italian coast. "Our data underscore the need to more systematically screen refugees coming from areas where SCD is endemic and suggest a strong national network might help to spur action," said De Franceschi, whose work is supported by University of Verona (FUR) and the scientific Italian society for studying hemoglobinopathies (SITE). "Early identification of cases can help prevent severe SCD-related events and life-threatening complications and redirect patients to comprehensive SCD centers for specialty clinical management, follow-up, and timely initiation of treatment." The group pilot tested a program that screened all refugees at a single refugee center using one of the new rapid point-of-care screening devices (SickleSCAN BioMedomics, Inc.), the results of which were then validated using the gold standard laboratory test. Front-line health providers in refugee centers and emergency department personnel were trained to recognize the signs and symptoms of SCD and intervene to provide necessary care. De Franceschi said this approach has allowed them to offer treatment with hydroxyurea and maintain routine clinical follow-up of newly identified SCD patients. De Franceschi said that, based on their findings, efforts should focus on: Routine screening for SCD in refugees from countries endemic for SCD within 10-14 days from their arrival to identify potentially vulnerable patients A structured, collaborative national network Educating ED physicians to identify and treat acute SCD-related events "We hope our data might open international political and social discussions about the accessibility of health care for refugees to treat both acute and chronic complications related to SCD," De Franceschi said. In a commentary of the study published today in Blood, authors Russell E. Ware, MD, PhD, and Courtney D. Thornburg, MD, MS, write that based on this study incoming migrants should be routinely tested for SCD and so should their offspring. Explore further High unmet need for dental care among Syrian refugees, research shows More information: Lucia De Franceschi et al. Access to emergency department for acute events and identification of sickle cell disease in refugees, Blood (2019). Journal information: Blood Lucia De Franceschi et al. Access to emergency department for acute events and identification of sickle cell disease in refugees,(2019). DOI: 10.1182/blood-2018-09-876508 Tim Nichols, who most recently taught honors courses at the University of Wyoming, will join UM in July, the university announced Wednesday. Although his wife, Laurie, is president of the University of Wyoming, that school announced in March that she would return to faculty after her contract expires in June, according to the Star-Tribune in Casper. A University of Wyoming trustee declined to discuss that decision with the newspaper, citing personnel matters. The City of Missoula, Missoula County and Lake County have moved forward with their lawsuits against opioid makers. Since May 1, all three have submitted fact sheets required by a massive nationwide lawsuit pending before federal judge Dan Polster in the Northern District of Ohio. Hundreds of state, local and tribal governments accuse drug makers and distributors of stoking the opioid epidemic, one thats weighed heavily on public health providers, police and other local services. Lake County and the City of Missoula, together with Anaconda-Deer Lodge County and the City of Great Falls, are represented by Missoula-based firm Boone Karlberg in this case. Missoula County, meanwhile is represented by Seattle-based Keller Rohrback. Both cases accuse opioid manufacturers of aggressively marketing their drugs and misrepresenting the risks to doctors, giving rise to an addiction epidemic. On or about 1996, when (opioid-based painkiller) OxyContin was released to the market, there was an increase in the Plaintiffs financial expenses related to the conduct alleged in the Complaint," states Missoula County's fact sheet. The plaintiffs are claiming damages in several areas, including law enforcement, courts, incarceration and public health expenditures; workers compensation, and health insurance. At the court's request, they detailed their budgets and expenditures in these categories from 2008 to 2018. Expenditures in a few fields declined, but most rose by hundreds of thousands or millions of dollars. Alongside the financial cost is a grim human one. The fact sheets also cited data from the State of Montana Vital Health Statistics Unit showing 21 prescription opioid poisoning deaths in Lake County, and 74 in Missoula County, from 2008 through 2019 to date (the City of Missoula used the county data in its fact sheet). The drug companies marketed the drugs despite their hazards, the attorneys alleged. At every stage, Defendants knew or should have known that their conduct would create an unreasonable risk of physical harm to others, states Lake Countys fact sheet. The northwest Montana plaintiffs are not alone in making these claims. The multi-district opioid litigation now has more than 2,700 parties. Three Ohio counties cases have been designated as Track One and are set to go to trial in October. The Montana localities cases will still need to have preliminary issues resolved before Judge Polster, Boone Karlberg attorney Tyler Stockton wrote in an email. He also said that cases like this tend to resolve out of court, pointing to a recent $270 million settlement that the State of Oklahoma reached with Purdue Pharma Inc. Neither the City of Missoulas nor Lake Countys retention agreements with the laws firms require the governments to pay any money up front, but they do entitle the firm to up to 25% of damages, plus attorney fees and litigation costs. Under Missoula Countys agreement, the firms fee will depend on the size of the damages awarded. Separately, the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes also expect to file a complaint soon, said tribal spokesperson Rob McDonald. You must be logged in to react. Click any reaction to login. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Be the first to know Get local news delivered to your inbox! Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. MOIESE VALLEY Scott Kiser brandished a bouquet of bright yellow flowers in front of a group of fourth-graders. If were backpacking up in Glacier Park and you see these flowers up on the trail, you guys want to pick 'em? No! chorused the group from the K. William Harvey Elementary School in Ronan. Good answer. You always want to just leave flowers unpicked, Kiser told them. He and Connie Plaissay, his colleague at Mission Valley Backcountry Horsemen, ran one of 22 presentation stations at the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes annual River Honoring. Over Tuesday and Wednesday, roughly 1,000 local fourth- and fifth-graders received lessons on the culture, history and science surrounding the Flathead River and how they can preserve it. We depend on the river for everything, and everything depends on the river, said Stephanie Gillin, who coordinated this year's event. The tribes first hosted a River Honoring alongside the Flathead in 1986. Since 1994, its been an education-focused event for area students. Gillins been involved with the River Honoring for 17 years. Previously, she presented to students as a tribal wildlife biologist. Now, as the tribal Natural Resources Department's new information and education program manager, she's the one organizing it. I think its grown in popularity and (in) the importance of it to the students, she said. Twenty-two tepees had been set up in two loops in a valley floor beside the Lower Flathead River near Moiese. Student groups rotated among the stations, moving on to the next one at the sound of a drum circles song. As Renee Kelchs fourth-grade students took their seats at the backcountry horsemens station, the teacher explained why shes been bringing students here for 20 years. I just think its such an educational day, she said. The kids are learning about our area and the reservation. In fourth grade we cover Montana history," Kelch explained, and she values this events guest speakers and hands-on instruction. Kiser and Plaissay went over Leave No Trace conservation principles, backcountry bathroom etiquette, sharing the trail with horseback riders, and the proper use of bear spray, with Kiser aiming a training can at a growling Plaissay. Me and him have been doing it about 10 years, Kiser said afterwards, You never know what youre gonna hear from the kids. Other stations gave the students a chance to shoot fire hoses from a backcountry water tender; watch a dugout cedar canoe slowly taking shape; and learn about skull identification, the rivers hydrology and the threat posed by zebra mussels and other aquatic invasive species. That last lesson made an impression on Ronan fourth-grader Amanda Courville. So far I loved it down at the mussel one, she said. I never thought about floaties being able to carry the aquatic invaders. She also enjoyed the backcountry horsemens camping lesson. They were so funny, she said. Standing beside the turquoise river, on a crisp spring day, she said, I love it here. Its also really pretty. You must be logged in to react. Click any reaction to login. Love 1 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Be the first to know Get local news delivered to your inbox! Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. The missing and endangered person advisory for 8-year-old Jennifer Graham has been canceled. Officials reported she and her parents were located in Idaho, and she is not in danger. Additional details were not provided. A missing and endangered person advisory has been issued for an 8-year-old girl last seen Monday at her school, according to the Flathead County Sheriff's Office. The white female, Jennifer Graham, is 4 feet, 5 inches tall and weighs 60 pounds, with blue eyes and brown hair. Officials believe she is with her father, Tom Graham. The 73-year-old white man is 6 feet tall and weighs 175 pounds, with blue eyes and white hair. They may be heading to Myrtle Creek, Oregon, Oklahoma or Texas in a 2013 Blue Dodge Caravan with Montana license plate E0760. According to an alert from the Montana Department of Justice, the girl did not return to school after officials received a report that she was being physically abused by her father. She "is believed to be in danger of physical harm and has significant mental health needs," the alert says. The girl's mother Christie Graham, who is known to have a traumatic brain injury and cannot operate a vehicle, might also be traveling with them. Anyone with information is asked to dial 911 or call the Flathead County Sheriff's Office at 406-758-5610. You must be logged in to react. Click any reaction to login. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Economic Development Week (May 6-11) is a time to reflect on the many successes of public-private partnerships to grow businesses, create jobs and strengthen the economy. This year, Montana has something extra to celebrate with the bipartisan passage of House Bill 52. HB 52 reauthorizes Montanas suite of integrated economic development programs until 2027 tools like Certified Regional Development Corporations, Small Business Development Centers, the export trade program at the Department of Commerce, Growth Through Agriculture at the Department of Agriculture and others. These programs have assisted more than 15,000 businesses and created or retained more than 12,000 jobs since 2012. With another eight years to continue this important work, the impacts will continue to multiply across the state. HB 52 passed in part because of overwhelming support from Montanas small business and economic development community. More than 100 Montana businesses sent in letters of support, and some representatives even traveled to Helena to vouch for the importance and effectiveness of these programs at legislative hearings. These businesses supported the legislation because they have experienced firsthand how economic development helps hard-working Montanans achieve their dreams. Because of economic development, a new pulse crop processing facility opened and created jobs on the Blackfeet Reservation. An entrepreneur in Billings obtained financing to follow her dream of opening a restaurant. A Stevensville business made connections at an industry tradeshow that allowed it to expand to a global market and grow its annual sales by 20 percent. Similar success stories can be found in every corner of Montana, and economic development is the thread that ties them together. Every day, local, regional and state resources support the growth and sustainability of industries and small businesses that strengthen our economy. Were proud to have a hand in this work and watch business grow from idea into job creator, international exporter and economic driver. Tara Rice is director of the Montana Department of Commerce. You must be logged in to react. Click any reaction to login. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Last week Gov. Steve Bullock signed a new state law to exempt the oldest and least-valuable mobile homes in Montana from annual property taxes. It was only one of several notable outcomes that resulted from dedicated journalism by Missoulian reporters. A year ago, a Missoulian news story shared the plight of mobile home owners who faced the loss of their homes over tax bills of as little as $75. In response, Missoula resident Svein Newman launched a GoFundMe campaign to raise money to immediately save 31 homes from the auction block, and began working with Missoula County Treasurer Tyler Gernant on legislation, sponsored in the 2019 Legislature by Sen. Margie MacDonald of Billings, that would save even more homes. After all, it makes little sense to spend hundreds of dollars in public money to collect on a bill for a fraction of that amount. But while the public cost of exempting these homes is minimal, the benefits to homeowners is massive. The new law is expected to help the residents of more than 22,000 mobile homes in Montana, including 2,170 in Missoula. For their work on this issue, Newman, Gernant and MacDonald certainly deserve a lifetimes supply of gratitude as does Missoulian reporter David Erickson for his thorough, ongoing news coverage. As Newman so ably articulated in Ericksons most recent mobile home story, one of the big values of local reporting is connecting a community to stories and needs that it may not otherwise see, and sparking and facilitating dialogues about solutions. While (the new legislation) feels like a common-sense idea, I suspect it's one that may never have come forward were it not for local storytelling. The same sentiment was echoed in last Sundays guest column from Missoula Sen. Diane Sands and Rep. Zac Perry of Hungry Horse, who wrote to recognize the direct influence of shared stories on another important bill signed into law last week. The Missoulian series titled Troubled kids, troubled system, launched earlier this year, was the result of a years worth of investigation into private alternative adolescent residential outdoor programs by reporters Lucy Tompkins, Cameron Evans and Seaborn Larson, with photographer Tommy Martino. The series brought statewide attention to some of the persistent problems at these programs and helped shine a light on attempts to resolve them in the Legislature. Thanks to these stories, and heartbreaking testimony from former students, Sands bill to transfer oversight of these programs to a more suitable state agency was passed, as was a bill that makes it illegal for program staff to have sex with youth in their care. They have all earned a round of congratulations for making Montana a safer place for vulnerable children. As if that wasnt enough, on May 3, World Press Freedom Day, the Missoulian announced that reporter Rob Chaney is one of a select few and an even smaller number of journalists from Montana to be named a Nieman fellow by the Nieman Foundation for Journalism at Harvard University. Later this year, he will join 26 other fellows in the 2020 class for two semesters of focused study on environmental attitudes in rural and urban communities. With three decades of daily reporting under his belt, augmented by international stints in Brazil, China and Nepal, and award-winning reporting on national issues, Chaneys latest project promises to bring even more insightful, relevant, world-class coverage directly to Missoulian readers. As elated as we are to share these achievements, we at the Missoulian must admit that we are equally proud of the hard work done by all our local journalists every day. And we are grateful to our readers for supporting local journalism. You must be logged in to react. Click any reaction to login. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 A few weeks back; Calvin asked if I'd join him at Song Huong; he wanted to have some Banh Cuon for lunch. I told him I wasn't the biggest fan of the Banh Cuon at Song Huong; nor much of anything else I've tried during several visits. Still, it had been over three years since I'd last visited, so why not. Unfortunately; or perhaps fortunately, Song Huong was undergoing some renovation work at that time....so we got Menya Ultra instead. Fast forward a month and Calvin asks if we could go and check the place out. So, why not? There're now a couple of groups of older Vietnamese guys hanging out on the tables outside the place. Guess they've found their coffee hangout. Other than the fresh coat of paint and some wooden tables and benches, the place looks pretty much the same. Though I heard someone saying something about ceiling damage and repairs. Calvin had one thing on his mind; the banh cuon. I on the other hand, really wanted nothing to do with any of the noodle soups here and was kinda fascinated by the new fried food menu. Anyway, the Banh Cuon and Banh Uot was mediocre. The banh cuon was especially bad; the rolls too thick and chewy, the filling bland, the nuoc mam cham watery....'nuff said. Meanwhile, after a short wait all the fried food started arriving. First the chicken gizzards ($5.99). Holy smokes, the portion size was more than I bargained for. These were crunchy, nicely seasoned, and in my opinion the best item of the meal. A good dose of Louisiana Hot Sauce added a nice kick and acidity to cut all that fry-o-lated goodness. The fried okra ($2.49) was again a good portion size. While it could have been more crunchy; it was still decently crisp, with a nice, gooey interior. Not bad; though this could have used more seasoning. And last; the Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings (6 pieces - $6.99). Unevenly battered, bitter garlic, too salty, and rather dry flesh.....this wasn't too good. a lot of the batter just flaked off as well. This one needs some work. There was a ton of leftovers. We took it back to the office and gave it to Big Daniel from Georgia and he whacked those gizzards in minutes. Then looked sleepy for the rest of the afternoon. As for the Banh Cuon; Phuong Nha definitely does it better. The woman working was much more friendly than I recalled. But am not sure I'll return. Song Huong 10550 Camino Ruiz San Diego, CA 92126 " " While the economy has regained full strength since the last recession ended in 2009, no one expects those gains to last forever. fotosipsak/Getty Images The Great Recession of 2007 to 2009 was the worst financial crisis in the United States since the Great Depression of the 1930s. Still fresh in our memories are the collapse of the housing market, major banks on the brink of failure, steep stock market losses, withered up retirement portfolios and double-digit unemployment. While the economy has regained full strength since the last recession ended in 2009, no one expects those gains to last forever. In fact a flip on the U.S. treasury bond yield curve (which you'll learn about on the next page) caused a huge drop in the stock market on August 14, 2019. The past 50 years have taught us that every heady economic high must have a soul-searching low. Nearly 10 years into steady economic growth, economists and investors are anxiously looking for signs that the party will soon be over. Advertisement If you hope to predict the economic future good luck, even "experts" routinely get it wrong it's time to familiarize yourself with the clearest warning signs of a looming recession. Here are seven. Montanas congressional leaders have taken up the Restore Our Creek Coalitions cause of demanding a fully restored upper Silver Bow Creek from Texas Avenue to the confluence at George Street. Sens. Jon Tester, a Democrat, and Steve Daines, a Republican, and Republican U.S. Rep. Greg Gianforte sent letters Wednesday expressing concern and disappointment over the consent decree negotiators statements in early April that fell short of promising a fully restored upper Silver Bow Creek. The consent-decree negotiators, which include the Environmental Protection Agency, Atlantic Richfield Company, the state and the county, said there would be money set aside to partially fund a "lined water feature" but the community would have to come up with some of the money and balked at spending money for an engineering and feasability study for the "feature." Testers letter was sent to Andrew Wheeler, Environmental Protection Agency administrator, only. Victoria Scordato, Testers Washington, D.C.-based spokesperson, said by email that Tester focused on EPA because the federal agency is the lead decision-maker and the main federal entity involved. But Daines and Gianforte, who sent one letter signed by both of the Republicans, addressed their letter to the EPA, Dave Palmer, Butte-Silver Bow County chief executive, Patricia Gallery, vice president of Atlantic Richfield Company, and Gov. Steve Bullock. Daines and Gianforte say they want the negotiators to provide a list of obstacles to restoring the upper portion of the creek and want to know why the negotiators call it a water channel. Daines and Gianforte also want the negotiators to provide an alternative remedy that would enable full restoration of the creek that would complement the remedy. Daines and Gianforte said they are disappointed the proposed remedy doesnt include full restoration of Silver Bow Creek. The Butte area has been plagued by decades of uncertainty, Daines and Gianforte wrote. Tester said he is troubled over the letter EPA sent to the coalition last month in which EPA said it would not pursue even a basic engineering analysis to determine if stream restoration is feasible. Restore Our Creek Coalition wants the negotiators to fund a technical feasibility study to prove that a fully restored creek is possible through the stretch of town from Texas Avenue to George Street at the Visitor's Center. But Dave Palmer, B-SB chief executive, said last month that since, in his view, a creek wouldn't flow through the town for another 40 to 50 years, that was a "total waste of money." The letters that have gone back and forth between Restore Our Creek Coalition and the consent-decree negotiators have not only not appeased the coalition, but instead have stoked the fire for the Butte-based community group. Restore Our Creek Coalition expressed disappointment last month over how long it took the negotiators to respond to the coalition (five months) and over the proposed lined water feature, which is not what the coalition says it wants to run through the middle of Butte. Northey Tretheway, Restore Our Creek Coalition spokesperson, said he hopes the letters will make a difference. They have got to be more responsive, he said of the negotiators. Tretheway said the coalition is particularly concerned over the fact that the negotiators have not responded yet to the last letter sent by the coalition in mid-April. Tretheway said its been almost three weeks. That worries Tretheway because EPA set the clock ticking recently for the consent decree to be signed by mid-August. Tester also took up the mantle for Restore Our Creek on the negotiators' matching funds plan. The negotiators said in early April there would be some money set aside from the Butte settlement after the consent decree is signed, but how much there will be has not been disclosed, and they added that the community would have to come up with the rest. The Butte settlement refers to the fact that Atlantic Richfield is going to reach an undisclosed financial agreement with the state. According to an agreement in principle reached last year, the Department of Environmental Quality will use part of the money to clean up Blacktail Creek from east of the Lexington Avenue Bridge to the confluence. There is expected to be some additional money from that settlement that the state can then put into an interest-bearing account towards a creek. The money could grow while the hand-in-glove remediation and restoration is underway throughout other parts of town. That money is intended as a match for community funding. The additional suggestion that the community pay for the creek restoration itself is wildly off-base, Tester wrote. Andrew Mutter, director of communications for EPA Region 8, said the agency is reviewing the letters and will respond accordingly. Palmer was not available for comment but Eric Hassler, county Superfund operations and maintenance manager, said he could not comment because he hasnt seen the letter. Mollie Maffei, deputy county attorney, said she hasnt seen the letter from Daines and Gianforte yet either, but also said the county is planning to talk with congressional leaders, the date just hasnt been set yet. Marissa Perry, Gov. Bullocks spokesperson, said Daines and Tester will receive a full response to their inquiries. Atlantic Richfield did not respond to a request for comment. Love 5 Funny 2 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 3 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. People across Montana can be assured that the state Clean Indoor Air Act will continue to be used to keep air healthy in buildings open to the public thanks to 12 Republicans and Democrats on the House Local Government Committee. Voting to stop an attack on the Montana Clean Air Act by tabling Senate Bill 179 were: Reps. Steve Gunderson, Dave Fern, Frank Garner, Bruce Grubbs, Derek Harvey, Emma Kerr-Carpenter, Jasmine Krotkov, Theresa Manzella, Marilyn Marler, Christopher Pope, Casey Schreiner and Committee Chairwoman Geraldine Custer. Voting for the bill to restrict local health boards were Reps. Greg DeVries, Frank Fleming, Rod Garcia, Derek Skees and Daniel Zolnikov. Local rules properly adopted under state law were jeopardized this legislative session when Sen. Doug Kary, R-Billings, introduced Senate Bill 179. The impetus for the bill was the Yellowstone County Tavern Association's opposition to a Yellowstone County Board of Health Rule that did two things: 1. Added e-cigarettes to the definition of tobacco products that cannot be used in indoor public spaces. 2. Required a 20-foot no smoking/no vaping zone around building entrances and vents to prevent smoke and e-cigarette aerosols from getting inside the building. The tavern association objected to the setback requirement and sued to overturn it. District Judge Greg Todd found that the board of health rule was adopted in a public process and followed the requirements of Montana law. Then the association sought Kary's help. Kary's bill to take away the local health boards' authority under the Montana Indoor Clean Air Act sailed through the Senate. It received closer scrutiny from the House Local Government Committee, which devoted more than two hours to the bill hearing and asked many questions of proponents and opponents. The committee also had the opportunity to review Todd's court decision. In the past decade, nine county boards of health, including Yellowstone's, have established setback rules, according to testimony from a Montana health department representative. She said those rules have generated only 14 complaints statewide in 10 years. Signage and community awareness has taken care of problems, making the local rules part of the successful public health policy established in the Montana Clean Indoor Air Act. The bill that passed the Senate would have retroactively rescinded local board of health rules everywhere in Montana, not just in Yellowstone County. No valid complaints have been received involving the setback and e-cigarette rule since it took effect in March 2018, according to a RiverStone Health spokeswoman The Gazette contacted last week. RiverStone is our county health department. RiverStone continues to send tobacco prevention specialists into schools to do presentations for students on the health risks of e-cigarettes and tobacco products. RiverStone distributes signs for smoke-free and vape-free areas to businesses in the county at no charge. Billings people are making the Montana Clean Indoor Air Act work for nonsmokers, non-vapers, workers, kids, parents, grandparents, and everyone else who wants to avoid cancer, emphysema, heart disease and asthma attacks. Perhaps more communication would help resolve lingering concerns about the clean indoor air rule. Yellowstone County Commissioner Don Jones testified twice in legislative hearings in favor or SB179 and he is a new member of the board of health. Jones could help facilitate dialogue about how good health and good business should coexist. The Billings Gazette Love 0 Funny 1 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Joanie Steil was with her sons, Dylan and Griffin, when their downtown Davenport restaurant Roam flooded in a matter of minutes as the temporary flood wall breached. "When we ran out and got ourselves to safety, the first thing the boys said was, 'what about our staff and employees?'" she said. "They had this dream of a business, and worked hard to bring a group of like-minded people together to work together. And so that was their first worry. I could tell how much it impacted them." A few feet of water remains inside the bar and restaurant, which opened in December. Roam's 25 employees are out of their regular jobs until the restaurant dries out enough owners can start to rebuild. Dylan Steil said they started a GoFundMe page to raise money to supplement their employees' paychecks. They've also been working with other businesses throughout the Quad-Cities to find them temporary work. "People rely on that paycheck and those tips," he said. And now, a group of Davenport businesses is combining their efforts to support the displaced employees. On Saturday, several businesses in the area of London Place in Davenport, 4893 Utica Ridge Road, will host a fundraiser, Floodapalooza. MUSCATINE Muscatine City Council will here more about storm shelter requirements at Thursday night's in-depth meeting. City code requires the inclusion of a storm shelter with any newly constructed school buildings or additions. Council adopted the 2015 International Building Code in 2017. Muscatine School Board approved a plan to build a science wing at the high school. The two-story addition would include state-of-the-art science labs with a total cost around $8 million. Muscatine Schools Superintendent Jerry Riibe said the school board would have to add an additional $1.2 million to the project to include the shelter. "I certainly understand in policy areas sometimes things get adopted that have unintended consequences," he said last month. "If this is one of those, I would just ask that the city council then make an amendment to that to relieve the responsibilities of that code." WEST LIBERTY A lengthy closed session discussion Tuesday night caused the West Liberty City Council to postpone a scheduled discussion of a WeLead proposal to the May 21 council meeting. The council met in closed session regarding pending litigation for well over an hour. No details were released, but City Manager Lawrence McNaul said after the regular meeting that the topic involved several nuisance properties. WeLead is the West Liberty Economic Area Development program. Shortly after returning to open session, council members chose to postpone discussion of making the WeLead director a city employee to May 21 at 6:30 p.m. Lions explain flag project Flags will fly in West Liberty during five patriotic holidays, thanks to the West Liberty Lions Club. The council had already approved the request from the Lions Club in April, but Club President Ed Moreno provided details about the Flags Over West Liberty project Tuesday night. Moreno said the club is offering $35 annual subscriptions to residents, allowing a 3-foot by 5-foot American flag to be placed in a resident's yard on a 10-foot pole on Memorial Day, Flag Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, and Veterans Day. Story 16 November 2021 Elena never gave up and finally found a job she loves. A story of labour market inclusion of people with disabilities in the Republic of Moldova Disability is an obstacle, a huge one, but the human spirit is resilient, and one has to keep going forward. Read the story of Elena Epuri, a worker with a disability at Steinel Electronics in Chisinau, Moldova. She found a great job she loves because of the new Employment Law and a wage subsidy scheme created an opportunity for her. The ILO provided the technical assistance for these reforms and measures. Elena was born in Chisinau, the capital of the Republic of Moldova. As a child, she was diagnosed with infantile cerebral palsy. Despite long years of medical treatment, her mobility could never be restored in full. Yet Elena was not inclined to sit at home and waste away. She dreamed of becoming educated and finding a job. She went to two professional schools where she specialized in computer and postal operations. Despite these qualifications, Elena had trouble finding work for many years after graduation. Some employers were sceptical about my physical abilities and lack of working experience, recalls Elena, but more often it was a lack of adaptations in the workplace or long commuting distances that prevented me from finding work. After years of searching in vain, despair and disappointment took their toll on her, but she never gave up. When her son Maxim was born, Elena felt blessed and loved. Time passed, and when Maxim was nearly two years old, she felt that it was time to start looking for work again. Elenas mother had passed away long before Maxim was born. Without her mothers support, there was only her father to count on, and she did not want to be a burden on him. She needed a job badly, but no matter how hard she tried, she could not find one. One day Elena was advised to reach out to the National Employment Agency (NEA). The day I knocked at their door was the luckiest day in my life, Elena professed. I was interviewed, I filled out a couple of forms and I left. A few days later, I heard back from the office. I was given the name of a company and told where to go for an interview. Believe it or not, I was hired the same week I first visited Steinel Electronic. Returning home with my first labour contract in hand, I felt like I was in seventh heaven. I had feelings of excitement and hope that were new to me. I never miss a day of work. Each time that I pick up Maxim from kindergarten, I tell him that his mom is back from work to take him home. The Republic of Moldova has the lowest employment rates in the region, hovering around 40 per cent over the last two decades. The employment rate of people with disabilities (PwDs) is much lower, at just 17 per cent in recent years, slightly higher for women. Every third person with disability works in agriculture and is highly exposed to precarious working conditions and low chances for career development. Although economic growth is mostly concentrated in Moldovas urban areas, the unemployment rate of PwDs in cities is double than the rural one. It reached nearly 6 per cent in recent years. While apparently low, the figure can be misleading as it tells little about the many discouraged workers among PwDs, who do not even try to find a job any more. To strengthen Moldovas labour market and improve workers livelihoods, both legislative reforms and practical measures are essential, and Moldova therefore enacted a new Employment Promotion Law in 2019. The ILO was provided technical assistance for the reforms. The new law promotes a portfolio of active labour market measures (ALMMs) designed to address the diverse challenges unemployed people like Elena face -- i.e. lack of skills and/or work experience, low productivity, employer discrimination, etc. The measures are directed to active jobseekers, as well as to the discouraged unemployed and to employers. They include training and retraining, traineeships, wage subsidies, self-employment opportunities, and local employment initiatives. Starting in 2019, the Public Employment Service piloted five ALMMs with ILO financial support, including a wage subsidy scheme for which Steinel Electronic applied. Steinel Electronic opened its doors in Moldova in 2007 with a production factory of the German company, specialised in sensor systems, sensor-switched lighting and heat tools. The factory is located in Chisinau and employs 320 workers. Of these, 27 have various degrees of disability. 14 out of 27 PwDs were employed with the support of NEA through the wage subsidy pilot funded by the ILO, Elena is among them. Ten employees joined the company in 2020, at a time when many other workers in Moldova lost their jobs due to the COVID -19 pandemic. The wage subsidy scheme compensates the employer for the extra costs of hiring PwDs, and the Government subsidizes their wages in the first six months of work. This subsidy is equal to 30 per cent of the average wage in the economy. In return, the employer makes a commitment to maintain the worker in employment for at least 12 months. Elena has been employed for nearly 26 months now, and she is happy. From her first day at Steinel Electronic, she has received training courses on effective assembling processes, occupational safety and health, and environmental protection. During her first month on the job, she also received individual coaching. The company provides daily transportation services to Elena and her colleagues. Her co-workers are always available to offer advice or a helping hand when needed. When her father passed away, they reached out to support her. We first hired workers with disabilities many years ago to reinforce our social responsibly culture, as well as to comply with the requirements of Moldovan law, recalls Clementina Saratean, head of Steinel human resources department. At least 5 per cent of our jobs have to be reserved for PwDs, this is how the Moldovan law reads. Yet, after some time passed, we realized workers with disabilities can be equally skilful, responsive, and, whats very important, they are extremely loyal. The turnover among workers with disabilities is the lowest in our company. Eight per cent of our workers have various types of disabilities. We even hired a sign interpreter on a permanent basis to help the deaf colleagues. We are not going to stop here, more people like Elena will be offered the opportunity to join us. In 2020, Steinel Electronic was awarded the Best Employer of People with Disability. The selection was made by NEA. Employment is about more than just a pay check, according to Elena. It is about achieving and maintaining independence, self-confidence and paying back your family. Things have changed in the last two years. Ive got a job, and Maxim again has a mother full of beautiful dreams. One of my dreams has already been fulfilled with the help of NEA and ILO, and now another, very different one is coming true - Maxim is good at breakdancing. Elenas smile is warm and wide. As I said, there are many different ways we can see our dreams fulfilled. The Gautrain is one of the most popular public transport services among middle-class citizens in Gauteng, with 62,000 train journeys a day. People can travel to numerous stations between Johannesburg, Pretoria, and OR Tambo Airport along the Gautrains 80-kilometre commuter rail system. Most people use their smartphones on the trip to browse the Internet, read emails, make calls, or check their latest WhatsApp messages. To remain connected, is a challenge however, as the train travels at up to 160km/h on a route with numerous tunnels and stations. This raises an important question: which mobile operator in South Africa offers the best performance along the Gautrain route? Gautrain mobile network tests To test the performance of mobile networks, MyBroadband conducted hundreds of download, upload, and latency tests along the Gautrain route. The tests were conducted using two test benches with five high-end smartphones each, which include Huawei Mate 20 Pro devices (shown below). These phones ran a custom version of the MyBroadband Android Speed Test app, which conducted network performance tests every minute. The full route from the Hatfield station to the Johannesburg station were done twice to ensure accurate results. The results The mobile network test results showed that the performance for Vodacom and MTN were very good along most of the Gautrain route. There were, however, a few areas where both Vodacom and MTN devices lost connectivity. Cell C, Telkom, and Rain had only patchy coverage along the Gautrain route and regularly lost connectivity. Vodacom had the highest average upload and download speeds, while Telkom recorded the lowest latency. The table below provides an overview of the performance of the networks along the Gautrain route. Gautrain Average Performance Operator Download (Mbps) Upload (Mbps) Latency (ms) Vodacom 62Mbps 17Mbps 29ms MTN 61Mbps 17Mbps 22ms Telkom 26Mbps 4Mbps 28ms Cell C 21Mbps 7Mbps 32ms Rain 16Mbps 4Mbps 23ms Gautrain Peak Speeds Operator Download (Mbps) Upload (Mbps) Latency (ms) Vodacom 163Mbps 31Mbps 26ms MTN 156Mbps 15Mbps 20ms Rain 89Mbps 28Mbps 36ms Cell C 80Mbps 9Mbps 25ms Telkom 68Mbps 9Mbps 15ms Now read: The best big data deals South Africa has ever seen As part of Growers/Vintners for Responsible Agricultures discussions related to Napa Countys recently passed Water Quality and Tree Protection Ordinance, this Op-Ed provides perspectives and specifics related to new rules. Amendments recently adopted by the Board of Supervisors will go into effect on May 9. A study by Amber Manfree, PhD in geography and GIS mapping, determined that newly adopted rules will reduce total developable area by a mere 3 percent, leaving over 28,000 acres of trees on developable land open to deforestation in Napa County. During the ordinance adoption process, Napa County Board of Supervisors and Planning Commissioners received comments from stakeholders, property rights advocates, subject area experts, and the general public. Numerous calls were made for science-based decision-making. Commenters including Ross Middlemiss on behalf of The Center for Biological Diversity, the California Wildlife Foundation and California Oaks, biologist Jake Ruygt, and others pointed to scientific research that shows conserving Napas wildlands has tremendous benefits for biodiversity, climate change buffering and adaptation, and water security. Essentially we need to preserve a minimum of 90 percent of our wildlands to maintain a healthy eco-system. In the late 1900s, Napa Valley saw a shift from prunes, walnuts, and other crops to wine grapes. With the Napa Valley floor effectively planted out, large-scale vineyard developments now typically require removal of forested wildlands. In a time of increasing awareness of the related threats of climate change and biodiversity loss, bulldozing of wildlands is far less socially acceptable than it once was. At the same time, wildland conversion is often the only realistic way for new wine grapegrowers to enter the Napa market. But how much land are we really talking about, and what may the effects of newly adopted rules be? Most remaining undeveloped land is in the 442,200-acre Agricultural Watershed Zoning District, which encompasses mountainous areas surrounding Napa Valley. There are a total of about 199,300 forested acres in the Agricultural Watershed. About 50 percent of the Agricultural Watershed has slopes over 30 percent, which are rarely permitted for development due to Napa Countys Hillside Ordinance and concerns about erosion. Prior to recent amendments, there were about 69,000 acres available for development in the Agricultural Watershed. About half of this developable area, or 34,400 acres, is forested. Over 70 percent of those trees are oaks. The remainder of the non-forested area is covered in grasslands, chaparral, and other land cover types. Changes to existing protections may reduce at-risk forest to 28,700 acres in the Agricultural Watershed. These rules may yield an overall increase of 5,700 acres, or three percent, in protection of Agricultural Watershed forests beyond existing rules. Will a two to three percent reduction in development potential meaningfully slow or prevent wildland conversion in Napa County? It will not. Grassland and chaparral are already the most commonly converted plant community types. They have essentially no protection from development other than slope-related rules of the Hillside Ordinance, and will not be receiving any increase in protection with new rules. There are over 40,400 at-risk acres of chaparral and grassland county-wide, in addition to the 28,700 acres of at-risk forest in the Agricultural Watershed and over 1,500 acres of at-risk forest in other zones, for a grand total of over 70,000 at-risk acres. Planning staff have a wide range of conservation options with the Water Quality and Tree Protection Ordinance, and they have considerable latitude in their per-parcel interpretation of the rule. For this reason, and because sensitive species were not accounted for, actual conservation may be higher than estimated. However, few existing wildland conversion projects built since the adoption of Napas Hillside Ordinance in 1993 have conserved substantially more area than legal minimums required by state and local rules. As new projects undergo the planning process, applications of the ordinance will become clearer. Although the new ordinance is a positive step in the right direction, our ultimate goal was to preserve the watershed as mother- nature intended. Only through maintaining the forested and natural eco-system can we truly combat the climate crisis we are in and save the finite water resource we all share. Mike Hackett lives in Angwin. SACRAMENTO Some bills are just more trouble than theyre worth for nervous legislators who must worry about voter support. One such bill is a current measure to tighten the requirement that children be vaccinated against contagious diseases like measles before being admitted to school for the first time. Kids can be excused from that edict for medical reasons, such as having a weak immune system caused by leukemia. But a few unscrupulous doctors are peddling medical exemptions for phony reasons to parents who obsessively fear vaccinations. Many of these parents get very hostile when lobbying lawmakers and attacking vaccine advocates. The anti-vaccine people lots of them moms tend to be single-issue voters who care about keeping their kids from being inoculated and little else. Theyre like single-issue voters tied to other controversial topics, such as gun rights, abortion rights, animal rights and, increasingly, single-payer healthcare. Typically, one side often in the minority is tenacious and aggressive. Gun advocates are a prime example. The majority side is ho-hum on the issue. Theyve got other things theyre far more concerned about. So its the minority that causes the legislators grief. Thats certainly true with vaccines. Legislators who vote for a bill to increase vaccinations against contagious diseases risk harsh attacks from opponents. But theyll get little thanks from vaccination supporters. Sen. Richard Pan (D-Sacramento) is carrying the bill to stiffen Californias immunization law. As a practicing pediatrician, Pan is a legislative rarity: Hes actually a certified expert on the subject hes legislating about. The bill, SB 276, would require the state health department to review all applications for medical exemptions. The state would approve or reject them. It would create a standard application form. And exemptions would go into a state database. After a 2014 measles outbreak that began at Disneyland with most of the victims being unvaccinated Pan wrote legislation to eliminate all non-medical exemptions. The main exemption he scrubbed was based on religious beliefs. The bill was passed and signed by then-Gov. Jerry Brown in 2015. It was one of the strongest vaccination laws in the country. And it is credited with being the main reason why the current measles outbreak is much less severe in California than in New York, which has a religious exemption. Pan vividly remembers the political obstacles he faced in winning passage. Practically all the yes votes were cast by Democrats, virtually all the noes by Republicans. Id talk to legislators and tell them the problem with not having more children vaccinated, Pan says, and theyd tell me, This is my problem.... The people who oppose vaccines, this is their most important issue. Theyre very passionate about it. Its the issue they will remember when they go to the ballot box. The vast majority who support this, its not their most important issue. They care about something else. I know Ill get a bunch of people upset voting for the bill. Theres definitely a downside and not much upside. My counter, Pan says, was when we have outbreaks, all the people worrying about their children getting measles will remember who had the opportunity to protect their families, but decided to put them at risk for political gain. Youre telling your constituents, Im OK with disease spreading in a community. After Pans 2015 bill became law, he says, anti-vaccine parents began doctor-shopping for physicians who would sign medical exemptions. He has heard that exemptions sold for from $200 to $600. Besides measles, kids are required to be vaccinated for such communicable diseases as diphtheria, mumps, whooping cough, chickenpox, hepatitis B and polio. But many parents are afraid that vaccinations can cause other ailments. They mistakenly believe, for example, that a measles shot can trigger autism a discredited theory promoted in 1998 by a lying researcher. His study was later retracted by the journal that published it. Many studies have proved theres no link between vaccinations and autism. A few of us are still around who remember when seemingly every schoolmate was hit by measles or mumps or chickenpox or whooping cough or all of above. It was like a rite of passage. When I grew up, a reader emailed me recently, measles was just part of life. It would go through a school classroom and 25% of the children would be absent. My mother made me stay in a dark room. I guess it could do something to your eyes. Fortunately, some smart people invented vaccines to all but eliminate those scourges in this country. Now some not-so-smart people are preventing their kids from being vaccinated and endangering whole communities. Theyre not only passionate, theyre aggressive, Pan says. Theyre almost like cults. They harass and try to intimidate. Theyve threatened my life and threatened to harm my family. They engage in a lot of hate speech. Compared me to Hitler, Pol Pot and Mao Tse-tung. Stop the vaccine guy. Send him back to his own country. Pans parents migrated from Taiwan. His bill has passed one committee: Senate Health, which Pan chairs. Theres a May 17 deadline for it clear the Senate Appropriations Committee. It probably will pass both houses and be signed by Gov. Gavin Newsom. But therell be a lot of shameful nastiness for a bill aimed at protecting children from terrible diseases. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. The Napa County District Attorneys Office said Thursday that it intends to retry a human trafficking case that ended in a hung jury. Seven of the 12 jurors said Wednesday that they could not find 28-year-old Bay Area resident Kevin Lamarr Lewis guilty of seven felony charges, said Lewis public defender, Andy Rubinger. The jury agreed to convict him of five misdemeanors not related to human trafficking or prostitution. The DAs Office could not be reached Thursday to elaborate on its decision to retry the case. Lewis is accused of pimping a woman in her 20s. She is not named in this article because the DAs Office has identified her as a victim. The jury hung on two counts of human trafficking, two counts of pimping, two counts of pandering and one count of dissuading a witness, Rubinger said. Lewis admitted to and was convicted of five misdemeanor charges related to contacting a woman twice in spite of protective orders, delaying an officer, driving on a suspended license and disobeying a court order by making phone calls in jail that he should not have made, according to court records and proceedings. Rubinger said he was disappointed that the DAs Office said in court Wednesday that they intended to retry the case. When you have the majority saying not guilty I find that a little frustrating, he said. But the prosecutors have a job to do, and I respect what they do. The jury deliberated for about an hour on Monday, all of Tuesday and arrived at their decision Wednesday afternoon after asking about 15 questions, Rubinger said. The young woman whom Lewis is accused of pimping took the stand last week to say he threatened her, drove her to dates and took all of the money she earned from prostitution. Lewis denied those claims. The two were detained in October outside of Napas Motel 6, after Lewis drove the woman to meet law enforcement officers who had responded to her online prostitution ad. The Napa Special Investigations Bureau, which focuses on human and drug trafficking cases, partnered with the Vacaville Police Department in the sting operation. At the time of the arrest, Lewis was out on bail after he skipped a court date in Los Angeles for human trafficking charges, filed in September, that involved the same woman. Lewis and the woman were arrested after a sting operation organized by the Los Angeles Police Department. The woman told officers that she and Lewis were in Los Angeles to make money from prostitution. Lewis claimed that he had been breaking into cars for 10 years and invited her to accompany him to Los Angeles because there was heightened attention on car break-ins in the Bay Area. In both the Napa and Los Angeles arrests, Lewis claimed he did not know the woman was a prostitute and thought he was driving her to meet up with someone she knew. She had previous experience with prostitution, but that didnt last long, she said. Her last pimp was physically violent and she left, she said. She said in court that she would post online ads for sexual services and Lewis would text her, instructing her to meet up with someone. Lewis would wait nearby for her in his Infiniti with paper plates covering the license plate, keep her purse while she went on dates, and sometimes keep her phone and delete text messages between the two of them, she said. Lewis denied all of this. Rubinger said he spoke to a couple of the jurors who said hhey felt that Lewis was not guilty. They said they were confused that the womans interview with Los Angeles police was not recorded and felt the prosecutor fed her testimony to her, he said. The woman testified that she saw between one to five men who responded to her ads in Los Angeles, but could not remember details such as how much money she made. This also struck those jurors as odd, Rubinger said. After the trial ended Wednesday, attorneys agreed to set the next court date for Aug. 7, where both sides will determine whether they can come to an agreement or will proceed to trial. If matters proceed, Aug. 12 will be the first day of the trial, court records show. 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. For years, even decades, polling has consistently found that Californians highest political priority is public education. That trend continues in a new survey by the Public Policy Institute of California (PPIC), conducted in the wake of teacher strikes for higher salaries in three urban school districts. PPIC found that three-quarters of California adults and likely voters say they want Gov. Gavin Newsom to make support of the states K-12 education system a high priority; that a lack of funding rates the highest on a list of vital issues; and that 61 percent say teacher salaries are too low. PPICs findings, which were released in late April, seem to buoy campaigns by the California Teachers Association and other education groups to sharply increase school spending. However, its not at all certain that, despite their apparent support for spending more, Californians are willing to tax themselves more. The poll found only tepid support for a pending ballot measure that would create a split roll for property taxes, thus increasing levies on commercial property such as office buildings and warehouses. Moreover, when PPIC asked voters whether theyd vote for parcel taxes for their local schools, fewer than half said they would a far cry from the two-thirds vote margins such taxes must obtain. The PPIC polling again underscores the essential dilemma for those who want California to sharply expand school spending and raise Californias per-pupil support from middling, vis-a-vis other states, to match the highest-spending states such as New York and New Jersey. With six million kids in Californias public schools, raising per-pupil spending by $1,000 would cost $6 billion a year just about what the split-roll proposal would generate for education. Moving into the upper tier of states would require about $5,000 more per pupil or $30 billion a year. Twice in this decade, voters have approved higher income taxes on the wealthiest Californians on the promise that they would help the schools and, in fact, per-pupil spending has increased by at least 50 percent in this decade. Even so, many school districts, including those where teacher strikes occurred, are teetering on the edge of insolvency, largely because their costs for pensions and retiree health care have soared. By happenstance, as PPIC was releasing its new survey, Pivot Learning, an educational consulting firm, published a new study that details how retirement costs are eroding spending for teacher salaries and for closing the achievement gap that afflicts poor students. While districts paid approximately $500 per pupil in 2013-14 for employee pension costs, they will pay $1,600 per pupil in 2020-21, the Big Squeeze report said. As a result, Californias districts will pay $9 billion per year towards employee pensions in the school year 2020-21. Its easy and popular for voters to tell pollsters, or for politicians to parrot, that schools need more money. However, raising it would be a daunting task. California now has, by far, the nations highest income tax rates and has probably reached the practical limit, especially since high-income taxpayers can no longer deduct more than token amounts of state and local tax payments on federal tax returns. If, as the PPIC poll results imply, Californians want to sharply increase spending on schools, especially for teacher salaries, they would have to tax themselves. To put it in perspective, a $30 billion a year increase in school spending would be the equivalent of a one-third increase in state income taxes or more than doubling state sales taxes. It would have been interesting for PPIC to ask voters explicitly about tax increases of those magnitudes. 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. In a span of three days, Jerry Falwell Jr., a close ally of President Donald Trump, has been in the national news twice - neither time for good reason. Over the weekend, Falwell said the president was the victim of a "failed coup" and deserves two more years tacked onto on his term. Then on Tuesday, Reuters reported that Trump fixer Michael Cohen helped Falwell get rid of some racy "personal" photos of the Liberty University president. In the past two years, comments and actions by evangelical leaders close to the president have made it easy for many Americans to conclude that evangelicals are the foremost enemies of democracy and freedom. As someone who writes about American religious history, I think this is truly unfortunate because no one group has arguably done more - in the past - to advance religious freedom than evangelicals. Understanding the crucial evangelical role in crafting religious freedom makes the position of folks like Falwell all the more tragic, but it also hints at a better way forward for the evangelical movement as a whole. Their biggest effect came through their influence on James Madison and other framers of the Constitution who advocated most strenuously and cleverly for religious freedom. Madison's political coming of age coincided with a massive wave of persecution in his part of Virginia. Between 1760 and 1778, there were 150 major attacks against Virginia's Baptists - whom we would now call evangelicals - many of them carried out by leaders of local churches associated with the Church of England, or Anglican parishes. The Rev. John Waller was preaching in Caroline County, Virginia, in 1771 when an Anglican minister strode up to the pulpit and jammed the butt end of a horse whip into his mouth. Waller was dragged outside, where a local sheriff beat him bloody. He spent 113 days in jail - for the crime of being a Baptist preacher. When the Rev. James Ireland was jailed in nearby Culpeper County, he continued to preach through his cell's barred windows. To stop him, Anglican church leaders galloped horses through the crowd, and hecklers urinated in his face. The Rev. David Thomas's services were disrupted by protesters who hurled live snakes and a hornet's nest into the room. "This vexes me the most of any thing," Madison, then 23, complained to his friend William Bradford in 1774. He told Bradford that five or six "well-meaning" Baptist ministers were at that moment imprisoned in neighboring Culpeper County for what he considered an absurd charge: preaching the gospel and "publishing their religious sentiments." "That diabolical, Hell-conceived principle of persecution rages," he complained. Through close exposure to the Baptist, or evangelical, cause, he came to understand that persecution was violent, but it also was bureaucratic. Baptists could be lashed by the law as well as the whip. The most common charges were preaching without a license or disturbing the peace. For instance, authorities imprisoned four preachers in Orange County, where Madison lived, for being "vagrant and Itinerant Persons and for Assembling themselves unlawfully at Sundry Times and Places Under the Denomination of Anabaptists and for Teaching & Preaching Schismatick Doctrines." Thomas Jefferson was, of course, also a key advocate for religious liberty - but from another perspective. Jefferson tended to emphasize the evils of priestly power and the need for freedom of thought. Madison, by contrast, believed that a separation of church and state would create a more vibrant religious foundation for the country. This idea - that even well-intended state support for religion would backfire - was influenced by the evangelicals, and was on display during Madison's successful effort to block a plan to create state subsidies of salaries of Virginia's ministers. Madison and the evangelicals believed such aid would corrupt faith by making it lazy and dependent on the state. The help violated Jesus' injunction that his followers should render unto Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's, evangelicals argued. The evangelical Baptists of Orange County declared that the idea that government should support religion was "founded neither in scripture, on Reason, on Sound Policy; but it is repugnant to each of them." Evangelicals were also an important voting bloc. In 1788, after the Constitution was ratified, Madison campaigned to serve in the first House of Representatives. But his nemesis, Patrick Henry, now Virginia's governor, plotted to thwart Madison by creating an unreceptive congressional district and recruiting as his opponent James Monroe, the tall, dark, and handsome future president who had crossed the Delaware with Washington and still carried bits of musket ball in his shoulder from the Battle of Trenton. Monroe's allies had spread word that Madison had "ceased to be a friend to the rights of Conscience" and refused to make any changes to the Constitution. The Baptists were drifting away from Madison. Because Madison needed their votes, he made perhaps the most consequential campaign promise in American history. He promised the evangelicals that if elected, he would propose a Bill of Rights that safeguarded religious liberty. This satisfied them. Madison won his election, 1308 to 972, thanks to lopsided majorities in the heavily Baptist areas of Culpeper and Orange counties. The evangelicals had delivered for Madison, and he fulfilled his campaign promise on June 8, 1789, by proposing a package of additions to the Constitution including one that would become the First Amendment. After the ratification of the Bill of Rights, evangelicals influenced the development of religious freedom in a different way. The First Amendment gave tremendous freedom to states to define religious liberty for themselves, so the states spent the next few decades reshaping their own constitutions. In state after state, the old establishments - the systems of government support for particular religions - fell, often as a result of pressure from Baptists and other evangelicals who wanted to dispense with the regulation of faith. Around the same time, the country experienced what historians called the Second Great Awakening, an outpouring of evangelical fervor. From 1770 to 1860, the number of churches per capita grew by 1,470 percent, while the number of Christian ministers increased at three times the rate of the population. The churches that grew were disproportionately evangelical, staunch advocates for the dismantling of the religious regulations. Another way evangelicals influenced religious freedom involved Congressman John Armor Bingham - now considered by scholars to be among America's "second Founding Fathers." He's called that because he was the primary author of the 14th Amendment, passed right after the Civil War, which decrees that the Bill of Rights protects Americans from oppressive actions not only of the federal government but also of state and local lawmakers. It is the 14th Amendment that prevents, say, a local city council from unfairly denying a building permit to an unpopular synagogue, mosque or church. Bingham grew up in a devout, evangelical, anti-slavery family, and he used highly religious language to describe the 14th Amendment's origins. "It surged from my understanding of the Divine Plan for people," he said. Bingham and his colleagues recognized the connection between religious liberty and other rights, including freedom of expression and the press. He discerned that because abolitionism was largely a religious movement, a statutory attack on the anti-slavery cause would often manifest as an attack on religion. For instance, the Rev. Jesse McBride, a Methodist preacher from Ohio, was arrested in South Carolina for giving a young white girl a pamphlet on the Ten Commandments that suggested slaveholders were violating God's laws. Bingham cast his effort in profoundly evangelical terms, explaining: "It surged from my understanding of the Divine Plan for people," he said. These days, I would argue, American evangelicals - white ones in particular - seem too often on the wrong side of history when it comes to religious freedom. True, their leaders speak a great deal about the topic. They fear that their biblically-based opposition to same-sex marriage will prompt regulations that limit their ability to preach or live according to their faith. And there is some real validity to their concerns that secularism sometimes disadvantages religion in the public square. But at the same time, evangelicals have participated in the greatest modern assault on religious freedom in America - attacks on Islam. Franklin Graham - a leading Baptist minister - in 2002 called Islam a "wicked, violent religion." Jerry Falwell, father of the one in the news this week, called Muhammad "a terrorist." Jerry Vines, the former head of the Southern Baptist Convention, called Muhammad a "demon-possessed pedophile." Most important they have been fervent supporters of President Donald Trump, even after he took the historic step of proposing a ban on Muslim immigrants. While Jewish and Mormon groups opposed the plan, 61 percent of white evangelicals supported it. It's true that among the competing rights in America are those between the religiously orthodox and the more liberally secular. So at the exact moment they need the understanding of other religious groups, evangelicals have sacrificed much of their moral authority on this topic. Prominent theologian Richard Mouw this week called for his fellow evangelicals to embrace "a generosity of spirit" when it comes to freedom and culture clashes. If we do, he argued, the farther we'll go "toward building a cultural consensus on the virtue of religious freedom for all." And preserving what is perhaps America's greatest invention. Steven Waldman is the author of "Sacred Liberty: America's Long, Bloody and Ongoing Struggle for Religious Freedom." He wrote this for the Washington Post. Zimbabwe may soon go blackout as low water levels reduce output from its biggest hydro plant, state-owned power utility warned on Thursday. According to Reuters, power cuts would hit the mining sector, which contributes more than two thirds of the southern African nations export earnings. The country, which experienced its worst power shortages in 2016 following a devastating drought, was producing 915 MW on Thursday against peak demand of 2,100 MW. Zimbabwe Electricity Transmission and Distribution Company (ZETDC) said in a statement that Kariba Power Station, which is already operating at half capacity, will reduce generation further to 358 MW from 542 MW. The Zambezi River Authority (ZRA), has reduced water allocations to the Zimbabwe Power company (ZPC), from 19 billion cubic meters to 16 billion cubic meters. ZPC said the situation has been made worse by vandalism and theft of the utilitys key infrastructure, obsolete equipment and foreign currency shortages. Last year alone, over 1,600 transformers were vandalized across the country, it said. ZPC urged consumers to switch off all non-essential load in the interest of maintaining a balance between the supply of power available and demand in order to ensure stability of the grid during the morning and evening peak periods. Indian, Bangladeshi and Maldivian tourists classified as regional tourists in Bhutan may soon have to pay a small fee to visit the country. The Fourth Bhutan Pay Commission report has recommended that the government should levy a minimal Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) on regional tourists. It suggests that the government to start with a SDF of 500 Ngultrums (same rate as Indian rupee) for the regional tourists. The report said that since regional tourists are visiting Bhutan in droves, the government would earn 425 million Nu (6.25 million U.S. dollars or 4.25 crore Indian rupees) annually if they imposed the SDF. Bhutan has been receiving increasing number of regional tourists. In 2017, around 170,000 regional tourists visited Bhutan, which increased to 202,290 in 2018 almost three times that of international tourists. The pay commission report also asked the government to consider increasing the SDF of 65 dollars currently levied on international tourists (who dont belong to India, Bangladesh and Maldives), saying this rate has remained static for more than forty years now. Bhutan tourism officials say they have already been considering a minimal SDF for regional tourists and increasing the SDF for international tourists, even before the Pay Commission submitted its report. Also read: Bhutan Prime Minister opens floodgates of business avenues in Bangladesh Bhutan values regional tourists because they ensure volume for the sector, especially during off-season. International tourists tend to visit only during peak season. Bhutan received 71,417 international visitors in 2017 , the highest number of visitors since 2012, according to Bhutan Tourism Monitor 2017 report. That marked a 21 percent increase over 2016. The international tourists arrivals grew by 13.8 percent as compared to 2016, while arrivals from the regional market, including India and Bangladesh, grew by 25 percent. Also, Bhutan is now planning to offer locations to the Indian film industry, which would improve revenues and cement the Himalayan kingdom as a tourist destination for an increasing number of Indians. This summer, many Indian tourists who cancelled their Sri Lanka bookings after the April 21 suicide bombings turned to Bhutan in large numbers. A missing rickshaw puller of Mangaldai in Assam has been languishing inside a jail in Bangladesh. The whereabouts of the same has come to light following a letter recently issued by the deputy high commissioner of India at Bangladesh. At a time when the Apex court is deeply concerned with the matter of deportation of a large number of declared Bangladeshi nationals from the state, this news of an Indian held in a Bangladesh jail has created quite a stir amongst the people of Assam. Indian deputy high commissioner at Dhaka, Biswadip Dey, via a letter on Sunday informed the principal secretary of home and political department that one Mukul Hazarika, son of Phuleswar Hazarika of village Hodapara under Mangaldai Police Station in Darrang district was lodged in Feni Jail in Bangladesh even after completion of his stipulated jail term. Significantly, it has also been mentioned in the letter that due to the lack of necessary response from the State government regarding his nationality verification, he has been languishing in Bangladesh jail despite the fact that he had completed his jail term. However, no details regarding his offence or period of conviction have been mentioned in the letter. The Deputy Commissioner of Darrang, immediately on receipt of the letter on Tuesday asked the police to take out necessary procedures for the verification of the person lodged in Bangladesh jail. Also read: Six Bangladeshi nationals arrested in Assams Kokrajhar Speaking to Northeast Now, Phuleswar Hazarika informed that his only son Mukul has been missing for past three years and a missing entry was also lodged in Mangaldai Police Station. My 40-year-old son has been earning his livelihood as a rickshaw puller in Janaram chowka area. The day he went missing, he had gone to that area riding my bicycle. We didnt hear from him after that, said Phuleswar. Mukul who is married to Kanchan Hazarika is also a father of three sons. The family members, however, have ruled out any possibility of Mukuls involvement with any militant outfit and disclosed that he has been suffering from mental illness. The family members also could not think of any possible reason of how Mukul may have landed all the way in Bangladesh. The family members have appealed the district administration and the State government to make all necessary arrangements to bring Mukul back to Mangaldai. Armenian News-NEWS.am presents the endeavors of several sons of the Armenian nation through the project called They didnt return from the battlefield and dedicated to the anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War. Unfortunately, it is impossible to list the names of all of them. Armenian News-NEWS.am would like to express its gratitude to the Mother Armenia Military-Historical Museum of the Ministry of Defense of the Republic of Armenia for its assistance. Hero of the USSR Garegin Balayan was born on February 28, 1912 in the Gulistan village of Nagorno-Karabakh. He was the commander and captain of the 1st motor rifle battalion of the 69th machinated brigade of the 3rd guard tank army of the military front in Voronezh. On September 22, 1943, he was one of the first to cross the Dnieper River along with 2 companies of the battalion in the Kanevi district of Cherkas region of Ukraine, dominated the foothold near Zarubintz village and made sure the military units of the brigade cross the river. On September 25, 1943, he died on the battlefield while defending the foothold. He is buried in the Zarubintz village of Kanevi district of Kiev region of Ukraine. By Order N 236 of the USSR Minister of Defense of 10 November 1972, Captain Balayans name was noted in the list of military unit N58731 of the 1st motor rifle battalion. STEPANAKERT. President of the Republic of Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh Republic/NKR), Bako Sahakyan, on Thursday issued a congratulatory address in connection with Victory Day as well as the 27th anniversaries of the Artsakh Republic Defense Army and the liberation of Shushi town. On behalf of the Artsakh Republic authorities and myself personally, I extend my heartfelt congratulations on the Victory Day, the 27th anniversary of the Artsakh Republic Defense Army and the Liberation of Shushia glorious triple holiday which unites all generations of our people, consolidates the whole Armenian nation all over the world, the address runs, in particular, Central Information Department of the Office of the Artsakh President informed Armenian News-NEWS.am. On 9th of May we celebrate the magnificent victory of our fathers and grandfathers in the Great Patriotic War, with the sense of infinite pride and gratitude. History remembers their unparalleled heroism and courage, selfless devotion to the homeland and the native people, and which our generation has inherited and mastered as the best lessons of patriotism. Bearing in mind their heroic example, we did not hesitate in 1992 to take up arms together with our sisters and brothers in Mother Armenia and the Diaspora and stand side by side for the defense of our Fatherland, formed a Defense Army in the conditions of war imposed on us, and liberated Armenian fortress-town Shushi. It was the victory of the combined power, freedom-loving spirit, and inflexible will of the Armenian people. Today our brave sons keep these victories firm, continuing with honor the sacred mission of their forefathers. This festive May day is full of joy and delight, as well as deep sorrow and grief. We remember and glorify all our martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the independence and freedom of our Motherland. May they be immortalized with every child born in the Motherland, with every prospering settlement, and with a fire burning in every hearth! Newly appointed Yerevan mayor takes oath of office Christmas Eve does not pass without incident for Biden 118 new cases of COVID-19 confirmed in Armenia New mayor of Yerevan to swear in today Huge ichthyosaur fossil reveals new theories about evolution speed Rare walking fish spotted off Tasmania coast for first time in 22 years Rice-sized microchip placed under skin can become Covid vaccination passport Thailand authorities seize $30M of crystal methamphetamine hidden in boxing punch bags Newspaper: No contract signed with any lobbying organization since Makunts appointment as ambassador to US Newspaper: Armenia ex-President Kocharyan to also hold press conference Newspaper: Armenia authorities instruct but investigative body can no longer continue Armenia PM: There are no legal grounds for existence of enclaves Armen Ashotyan to Pashinyan: Real catastrophe took place when a nincompoop like you came to power in Armenia Armenia PM: Catastrophe took place in Karabakh negotiations in 2016 Armenia PM on first meeting held in '3+2' regional format Armenia PM on opening of communications Yerevan mayor's oath-taking ceremony to be held on Dec. 25 Putin to not call Biden on the phone to wish him a Merry Christmas Armenia PM on granting status of observer to Azerbaijan within Eurasian Economic Union Georgia Parliament Speaker resigns Armenia's Pashinyan: I refuse to discuss any issue related to the army publicly Armenia PM: If the Armenian-Turkish negotiations are a success, of course, there will be a meeting with Erdogan Earthquake hits Armenia-Georgia border zone Armenia PM: I returned from meeting in Sochi with a feeling of satisfaction Armenia PM says he will attend non-official summit of CIS countries, will have contact with Aliyev Armenia's Pashinyan: We returned the captured Azerbaijani servicemen without preconditions Azerbaijan to deploy special military detachments in Karabakh's Hadrut region Azerbaijan President is blatantly threatening Armenia again Armenia FM meets with members of ruling parliamentary faction Armenia PM giving press conference Armenian PM attends Requiem Service for wife of National Hero of Armenia Karen Demirtchyan Analyst clarifies what will disturb Turkey and Azerbaijan from opening so-called corridor via Armenia NEWS.am daily digest: 24.12.21 Republican Party of Armenia: Authorities are creating barrier between Diaspora and historic homeland with their policy Turkey, Qatar sign memorandum on joint management of Kabul International Airport Armenia ex-defense minister Davit Tonoyan to remain in custody Representatives of Azerbaijani and Armenian communities meet in Moscow for first time after Karabakh military conflict Dollar still losing value in Armenia Parliament vice-speaker receives American Chamber of Commerce in Armenia board chairman Republican Party spokesperson: Armenia authorities decided to smoothen ties with Turkey after defeat in war Armenia Health Ministry Legal Department head: Decision of Constitutional Court is ministry's victory MFA: Russia welcomes international efforts to normalize Armenian-Azerbaijani relations Armenia President receives group of parents of deceased servicemen Armenia Security Council holds session Iran FM: Tehran is ready to participate in next stage of negotiations with Saudi Arabia Zakharova on Armenia-Azerbaijan railway link: Substantive discussions continue on trilateral working group Kremlin: US may consult with Ankara over settlement of situation in Ukraine Zakharova: Moscow believes Ankara will take Russia's signals seriously Non-official meeting of leaders of CIS countries to be held on Dec. 28 Audit Chamber official: Armenia banks have misused state subsidies they received Armenia health, labor inspectorate to inspect 700 economic entities in 2022 Russia peacekeepers ensure safe travel of more than 2,000 people to, from Karabakh in one day Azerbaijan's Aliyev celebrates 60th birthday in occupied Armenian city of Hadrut Russia MFA: Not only Turkey ready to hold 3+3 regional consultative mechanism meeting Maria Zakharova wishes Yerevan and Baku peace and patience Valerie Pecresse posts comment on Facebook: I visited Armenia - France's fraternal country Putin, Aliyev confirm readiness to strengthen Russia-Azerbaijan strategic partnership Middle East Eye: Turkey encouraged by Armenia PM Pashinyan's reelection, aims to normalize relations Armenia government: Constitutional Court decision does not lift requirement for employees to submit PCR test result New program shall develop Armenia metrology Armenia opposition MP: Corridor is spoken of as established fact in Azerbaijan Armenia Constitutional Reform Council to include 2 representatives of international organizations Putin expresses Aliyev readiness to continue dialogue, joint work to strengthen regional stability, security 1 more person dies of coronavirus in Karabakh 135 new cases of COVID-19 confirmed in Armenia Lavrov: Involvement of Kiev in NATO poses serious risks, even large-scale conflict in Europe Newly elected Vanadzor city council first session not convened NATO to approach Russia borders in case of aggression against Ukraine President thanks Russia peacekeepers, Putin in terms of Artsakh security Newspaper: What is actual Covid death toll in Armenia? Newspaper: Details became known from closed meeting between Armenia PM, parliament majority faction US arms exports fall 21% in 2021 Diaspora Commissioner: More than 1.5 million people left Armenia in 30 years High Commissioner for Diaspora Affairs: Armenia won't build relations with Turkey at expense of interests of nation High Commissioner for Diaspora Affairs: Fifth Turkish Column is very active in Armenia Armenia High Commissioner for Diaspora Affairs: We Armenians don't know our enemies well Biden administration welcomes 'small' steps toward diplomacy with Russia Blinken, Stoltenberg discuss NATO's 'dual-track approach' to Russia Armenia ruling faction MP: Talks in Brussels were discussed during meeting with PM Armenia Health Ministry responds to Constitutional Court's decision on COVID-19 testing Armenian High Commissioner for Diaspora Affairs: Living in Armenia is safer than in developed countries Analyst shares information about growth of sales of Armenian wines Analyst: Artsakh wine export indicators have dropped Karabakh President: Presence of Russian peacekeeping contingent in Artsakh needs to be guaranteed and termless Iraq calls for launch of direct talks between US and Iran Hayk Marutyan bids staff of Yerevan Municipality farewell Moscow State Institute of International Relations to introduce Armenian language courses Armenia PM: Digital processes should have daily practical significance for people Iran FM expresses willingness to assist Azerbaijan in restoring Karabakh's occupied territories Turkish vice-president tests positive for COVID-19 Lights of main Christmas tree in Yerevan switched on Aram Vardevanyan: Armenian employees no longer obliged to pay for PCR tests, this is unconstitutional NEWS.am daily digest: 23.12.21 Azerbaijan addresses Bosnia & Herzegovina for identification of remains Armenia's Pashinyan is in a meeting with ruling faction MPs Armenia Constitutional Court: Employees don't need to pay for COVID-19 testing Baku is still complaining about Valerie Pecresse's visit to Nagorno-Karabakh Armenia Constitutional Court announcing decision on mandatory COVID-19 vaccinations and testing (LIVE) Turkish court rules to leave Osman Kavala in custody Anti-Corruption Committee: Armenia Prosecutor General's Office's instruction under Aghvan Hovsepyan's case is groundless The first vice-president of the opposition parliament of Venezuela has been detained, BBC reported referring to the speaker of the National Constituent Assembly of the country Diosdado Cabello. "One of the principal conspirators of the coup has just been arrested," Diosdado Cabello, head of the pro-Maduro Constituent Assembly, told state TV. "They will have to pay before the courts for the failed coup that they have attempted. On Wednesday, Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro dismissed dozens of military for involvement in the coup. Among them was the former head of the Bolivarian Intelligence Service, SEBIN Divisional General Manuel Figuera, as well as Lieutenant Colonel of the National Bolivarian Guard Ilich Sanchez , who in recent months headed the security services of the opposition Maduro National Assembly. Four lieutenant colonels, four major, four captains, six lieutenants and 35 sergeants were expelled from the army. On the occasion of the Victory and Peace Day, Armenian President Armen Sarkissian sent a congratulatory message to Shushi, Presidents press service reported. Dear Compatriots, I extend my warmest congratulations on the occasion of Victory and Peace Day, as well as Shushi Liberation holiday. I congratulate all veterans of the Patriotic and Artsakh Wars, homeland defenders and freedom fighters, soldiers and officers, our entire nation, all citizens of Armenia and Artsakh who at the time of need instantly become defenders of Fatherland. I congratulate our brothers and sisters in Spyurk, who participated actively in the fight against fascism and later, in the defense of Artsakh. Peace and victory as values are important guarantees for the peoples and nations development. Nearly 75 years ago, in the World War II it was also through the efforts of 600,000 of our compatriots that the fight against fascism had brought peace to the world. Twenty-seven years ago, with the historic liberation of Shushi, we were able to turn the tide of the Artsakh War. Thousands of our compatriots lost their lives to bring these victories and to establish peace. We bow to their eternal memory. Dear Fellow Citizens, We should not be content with the achievements of the past only. We should register victories also today, in all areas; we need to create today a strong foundation of tomorrows accomplishments. To conquer current challenges, we need to be victorious in our mind, we need to put forward new ideas and call them to life in the military and civil live, on the borders and in the rear, at the work place and in the economy, in the science and culture. It was the united power of Armenia, Artsakh, and Spyurk, our joint Armenian strength that prevailed in the Artsakh War and brought about the glorious liberation of Shushi. We need to make every effort to keep our unity intact to ensure our future victories, to keep peace unbroken in Armenia and Artsakh. I once again send you my congratulations on the occasion of May Holidays and wish us all new victories, peace and progression to our country and our people, the statement said. YEREVAN. Victories dont have a time. As the laws of nature dont change, the victory, the sense of victory is eternal. Armenian President Armen Sarkissian on Thursday told this to reporters at Victory Park in capital city Yerevan. [But] our [Armenians] victories are special because they are the national victories of our nation. (...) because not only the Armenian army, but also the entire [Armenian] people were fighting, the president said, in particular. The people guide at the moment of danger, and the victory becomes the target. And asked whether last years velvet revolution in Armenia can also be considered a victory, Sarkissian responded as follows: Always the people give the assessment of a victory. For the past 27 years, May 9 has a triple meaning for Armenians. The victory which the Soviet peopleincluding Armeniansachieved in the Great Patriotic War in 1945 during World War II, the victory of liberation of Shushi in 1992, and the formation of the Artsakh Defense Army in the same year are celebrated on this day. Machakos Governor Alfred Mutua on Wednesday took his efforts to provide police officers in the county with better housing facilities a notch higher when he handed over new police houses to IG Mutyambai. Constructed by the Machakos County Government, the new housing units for senior police officers are located at the Athi River Police Station in Mavoko Subcounty. Mutua noted that security was an integral part for the county development, therefore police officers welfare should be at the core of the county activities. Our men and women in uniform who serve as police officers contribute greatly to the safety and peace of mind we have as ordinary Kenyans. However, the reality is that for many years, unlike their counterparts in Europe, Australia, Canada, the United States, Brazil, South Africa and other nations, our police officers have not been treated well and fairly. This is especially so when it comes to remuneration, benefits and housing, said Mutua. He said his administration will also ensure all the police stations within his county are renovated to provide a conducive working environment for the men and women in uniform. We will paint and repair the old houses as we revamp all police stations in the Machakos County to bring them to international standards. That way, people will receive good services in clean and modern facilities when they visit police stations, he said. The county boss further noted that the conversation in the country should be about adding housing allowances to the police and not to politicians. Police service is reflected in the motivation of our officers. Yes, their salaries have been increased but when you consider that these officers are at the receiving ends of bullets and other ordinance, they are not paid enough, he said. Some photos of the new housing units. WASHINGTON. Additional financing in the amount of EUR 13.4 million (US$ 15 million equivalent) to the Lifeline Road Network Improvement Project (LRNIP) in Armenia will help improve accessibility to markets and social services through the rehabilitation of an additional 61 km of the road network, as well as its climate resilience and safety management. The loan was approved today by the World Banks Board of Executive Directors. Despite visible improvement in the last decade, about 40 percent of the roads in Armenia remain in poor condition, and one-third of the rural population lacks access to an all-weather road. There is still a significant investment backlog for rehabilitation and maintenance in the country. Trade from rural areas is held back due to restricted connectivity to markets and poor road conditions that can result in substantial opportunity losses for some communities. Therefore, facilitating trade and connecting local production to markets remains of paramount importance for reducing rural poverty and promoting economic growth in the country. The rehabilitation of additional lifeline roads will facilitate better access to jobs, markets, and other basic social services for over 60,000 people in the provinces, said Sylvie Bossoutrot, World Bank Country Manager for Armenia. It is vital that rural infrastructure is improved and maintained to promote agricultural trade, so that farmers and small businesses are able to bring their products to market more easily and at a lower cost, thereby stimulating economic growth and local employment. The proposed activities will support the Ministry of Transport, Communication and Information Technologies (MoTCIT) in screening the road infrastructure for climate risks in areas prone to natural hazards including landslides, rockfalls, and floods. This risk assessment will be accompanied by identification of remedial actions. The additional financing will also help Armenia improve road safety and asses the real cost of road crashes to peoples lives and the economy. This will be implemented through connecting all key road safety stakeholders with a consolidated modern crash data collection and management system, as well as capacity building in road safety management. The project also aims to continue supporting the Safe Village program through small road safety civil works, traffic control measures around schools, kindergartens, and community centers, combined with awareness campaigns at communal level, added Nargis Ryskulova, Head of the World Bank project team. As of today, safe village schemes are implemented in 66 communities. We expect the number of safe schemes to reach 84 by the end of 2019. Implementation of the on-going project has progressed well. The proposed additional financing will raise the total length of roads to 450 km, 299 km of which have already been rehabilitated. Since the launch of the first Lifeline Road Improvement Project (LRIP) in 2009, there has been a noticeable improvement in local employment and journey time has declined on average by 40 percent, while 433 km of lifeline roads have been upgraded across the country. The detailed designs of the first-year program - seven road sections totaling 27 km located in Ararat, Syunik, Armavir and Gegharkunik regions - have already been prepared under the parent project. The remaining 34 km sections will be designed during the summer and implemented in five regions. Total financing for this project is EUR 16.75 million, of which EUR 3.35 million will be Government contribution. The World Bank will provide EUR 13.4 million (US$ 15 million equivalent) through an IBRD loan of variable spread, with a 14.5-year grace period and a total repayment term of 25.5 years. Since joining the World Bank in 1992 and IDA in 1993, commitments to Armenia have totaled approximately US$ 2,379,734 million. President of the National Assembly (NA) of the Republic of Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh Republic/NKR), Ashot Ghoulyan, on Thursday received Ararat Mirzoyan, President of the NA of Armenia, who is in Artsakhs capital city of Stepanakert on the occasion of the May day triple celebration. To note, for the past 27 years, May 9 has a triple meaning for Armenians. The victory which the Soviet peopleincluding Armeniansachieved in the Great Patriotic War in 1945 during World War II, the victory of liberation of Artsakhs Shushi town in 1992, and the formation of the Artsakh Defense Army in the same year are celebrated on this day. The head of Artsakhs legislature underscored the importance of the current visit by the parliamentary delegation from Armenia. Speaking about the meaning of May 9, Ghoulyan noted that the victory of Shushi has given a new value to the victory in the Great Patriotic War. Mirzoyan, for his part, stressed the contribution of the Armenians who achieved victory in the Great Patriotic War and the importance of the Liberation of Shushi and the formation of the Artsakh army in modern Armenian history. Subsequently, the speakers of the two parliaments discussed the agenda and procedural matters of the forthcoming meeting of the Armenia-Artsakh interparliamentary cooperation commission, and which will be convened in Armenias capital city of Yerevan in the near future. Kenyans and Tanzanians have for many months been engaged in a war of words on social media platforms. The cause of this has been the Standard Gauge Railway lines both countries are constructing. Kenya went first with its Mombasa to Nairobi line. What was promised to be an electric, high speed line turned out to be only slightly faster than the old line, with diesel locomotives. A lot of explanations have been given, and even assurances of eventually electrifying the line, but not everyone is convinced. Tanzania on the other hand had the advantage of watching Kenyas missteps and taking a different route. Their citizens demanded that their version must be electric and truly high speed. And thats what Magufulis government is supposedly delivering. The Tanzanian SGR has been very secretive, perhaps even more than the Kenyan one. While President Magufuli publicly says that they are financing it with internal government funds, there are records of billions of dollars borrowed specifically for this project. At least $2.6 billion has come in form of a loan from Export Credit Bank of Turkey and Standard Chartered Bank. There are also many conflicting figures on the timelines of this project. Not to mention it freight capacity and so on. Unlike Kenya, Tanzania went with a Turkish company Yap Merkezi for the construction. This week, Yapi brought in what was stated to be a test locomotive head. Visuals tell a clearer message than anything that can be written, and word spread fast on the internet that Tanzanias first locomotive had arrived. The fact that it is only slightly uglier than the Kenyan locomotives did not help the situation, especially because they had been promised sleek bullet trains. Despite assurances that this was only a test locomotive, Tanzanians were disappointed. Kenyans, who had been on the defensive for many months, took this time to ridicule their neighbors. Tanzania must be a superhero whose super powers are to make Kenya and everything Kenyan seem super cool. All of a sudden our SGR seem futuristically sexy! pic.twitter.com/nMuww5PHdn Haytham Bhalo (@HaythamBhalo) May 7, 2019 As if things could not get worse, pictures started making their way on Twitter yesterday, showing that this particular train head had overturned. It is not clear how or where the accident happened, but it makes for a very funny tale. On May 9, the day marking the 74th anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War, President of Armenia Armen Sarkissian laid a wreath near the eternal flame and the monument of the Unknown Soldier at Victory Park in Yerevan. The victories that preceded the declaration of the First Republic of Armenia are our pan-national victories, and the same goes for the Great Patriotic War. Armenia gave 300,000 soldiers, and overall, 600,000 Armenians from the USSR, but many didnt return, the President told journalists. The head of state emphasized that the Armenian Diaspora showed active participation in the assistance and collected funds to purchase equipment because, after all, Armenian statehood was under threat, even if it was within the composition of the USSR. The same goes for the Artsakh war and the Four-Day Artsakh War that took place in April 2016. Whenever there is a threat, all Armenians unite and aspire for victory, Armen Sarkissian stated. The military subdivisions of Russia and Armenia marched to the sounds of the songs Farewell of the Female Slavonian and Victory Day and, according to tradition, President Armen Sarkissian, Minister of Defense Davit Tonoyan and other government officials had lunch with veterans of the Great Patriotic War and the Artsakh war in a large tent that was set up. On May 9, a concert dedicated to the 74th anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War was held at Kirov Childrens Park in Yerevan, reports Armenian News-NEWS.am. Before the concert, citizens of Yerevan and guests laid flowers at the monument to the brave fighters of the Red Army placed on behalf of the grateful Armenians in 1940. Afterwards, the participants of the solemn event tasted the meals that were prepared for them at the park. There was a high turnout, and the concert was held with the active support of the attendees. Citizens of Armenia and Russian tourists enjoyed listening to post-war military songs performed by young and talented Armenian students. The participants of the concert even placed the Victory Flag on the roof of one of the constructions at the park, while children drew stars on the walls of a building with chalk and wrote the following: Thank you for the victory. The concert was a joyful event for not only the children and their parents, but also employees of the Embassy of Russia led by Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Russian Federation to Armenia Sergey Kopirkin, as well as the brave veterans of the Great Patriotic War. I dont want to sound sentimental, but first and foremost, I miss the boys and men who died during our battle for existence. This is what third President of Armenia Serzh Sargsyan said today as he recalled his friends-in-combat of the Artsakh war during an interview with the Public Television of Artsakh. I dont want to sound sentimental, but first and foremost, I miss the boys and men who died during our battle for existence. I really miss Vazgen, of course Avo, who is better known as Monte Melkonian, I miss Ashot, Yura and Norik (commander of Martakert), Dushman Vardan, Lyova and many others. Over the next couple of days, I will try to visit their tombs to reaffirm my respect to a certain extent. It is clear that it is impossible to achieve great results without the elder generation. Of course, youth play a huge role, but we, who were young at the time, couldnt overcome that hardship and the challenges with honor, if our fathers and forefathers hadnt manifested themselves brilliantly during the Great Patriotic War, Serzh Sargsyan said. When asked what plans he has in Artsakh, the former president said the following: I have always had a lot of plans. Well see. I plan on visiting Amaras to understand the state of Amaras because it will be impossible to defend the homeland with honor without Amaras and Gandzasar, that is, the monuments with age-old wisdom. Without exaggerating, I can say that every time there are talks about Shushi, I hear the words of Valery Chitchyan when he said I dont see the enemy in Russian. It was about 5:15 a.m. on May 9. This is what third President of Armenia Serzh Sargsyan said as he recalled the operation for the liberation of Shushi during an interview with the Public Television of Artsakh. When he said it the second time, it was already clear that Shushi had been seized. A lot has been said about Shushi, but I would especially like to emphasize the fact that the Shushi operation played a decisive role in all the processes that unfolded later. Right from the beginning, it was clear for everyone that victory was almost ensured, if we achieved success in Shushi. It would inspire the fighters, our population and would have a very negative impact on Azerbaijan, but if we failed, we would face complete annihilation and be defeated. This is exactly why we had long discussions during the development of the Shushi operation and made a final decision, Serzh Sargsyan said. He stressed the fact that Arkady Ter-Tadevosyan was unequivocally the commander of the Shushi operation. As I said, after long discussions, it was decided that we had to attack Shushi in 4 directions, and among the fighters in these directions were Valery Chitchyan, Seyran Ohanyan, Arkady Karapetyan and Samvel Babayan. Many of the men here participated in that operation, and I must say that Shushi was seized through the efforts of each of them. However, one of the guarantees of the success of the Shushi operation was that, three months before, the Azerbaijanis had launched a big attack on Karintak, and during the attack, even though many of the boys died, they mainly destroyed the most efficient battalion. I must say that there were only volunteers participating in the operation, but it is very important to state that all the leaders of Nagorno-Karabakh of the time participated in the operation, including Robert Kocharyan, who was fighting from the side of Lachin as merely a soldier. Bako Sahakyan was in the newly formed company in Stepanakert that was led by commander Vilen. Everyone participated in the operation. I was the one who was mainly responsible and was accountable to Robert Kocharyan and Vazgen Sargsyan. It is hard to say just a few words about Shushi, but I repeat that the Shushi operation and the success predicted many things, Sargsyan said. Mike Sonko has killed two birds with one stone while responding to reports that he is being probed by the DCI and the EACC. The governors first victim is his Kiambu counterpart Ferdinand Waititu, who was named alongside Sonko as persons of interest in Daily Nations headline story on May 7. According to the piece titled Sonko and Waititu Under Probe, the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) is investigating the two governors over abuse of office, corruption and unexplained wealth. Apparently, the governors cases are among high profile files that the EACC plans to forward to the Directorate of Public Prosecutions (DPP) for prosecution. The local daily further reports that Sonko, who according to investigators is not known for any major investments, has been asked to explain the source of his wealth as well as his property including his Mua Hills residence in Machakos County. But in his response on Wednesday, Sonko dismissed the report as fake news. He also posted to social media a screengrab of Daily Nations front page with the words Fake. Maybe Waititu. Sonkos second victim was his longterm nemesis Interior Principal Secretary Karanja Kibicho. Sonko: PS Kibicho Now My Good Friend After President Uhurus Intervention According to the Nairobi governor, Kibicho was behind the fake stories spread by Interior Security Ministry Spokesman Chacha Mwita. Sonko insisted that Kibicho should be held accountable for the alleged theft of Sh400 million in the purchase of Sh650 million property in Uganda in 2014. I insist that Karanja Kibicho should be held to account for the theft of public funds when he was Foreign Affairs PS where he bought Ugandan Embassy Land for Ksh. 650 Million while it was valued at Ksh. 250 Million making away with a cool Ksh. 400 Million of public money, said Sonko. Sonko wondered why Kibicho was being spared for the scandal. He posed, Why the case of Ugandan Embassy scandal has not been taken up and yet it is blatant theft of public money? Why is corruption and theft by some senior Government officials is being downplayed? Why are smart thieves in government being spared? Why should one be allowed to stay in office to use confidential budget to pay editors and bloggers to fight those who want him to account for theft of public money? The head of the Military Police of the Ministry of Defense of Armenia doesnt agree with the view that the scandalous incident that took place at the military unit in Meghri was also the result of poor work of the Military Police. This is what Head of the Military Police, Colonel Artur Baghdasaryan told Armenian News-NEWS.am today as he talked about the incident for the first time. Armenian News-NEWS.am: To this day, many people are asking questions about the mass exodus of military servicemen from the premises of the military unit in Meghri. How would you interpret the incident? Artur Baghdasaryan: The Military Police has a negative attitude towards such incidents. We didnt force a soldier to serve. They were recruited to fulfill their duty and shouldnt have left the premises of the military unit like that. The particular military unit has a superior command to which the servicemen could have complained and give a solution. The conflict is over. There is no privileged military servicemen at that military unit. The rest will be established through investigation. Armenian News-NEWS.am: Based on the data of the investigation, certain military servicemen had special rooms and served in special conditions. What do you have to say about that? Artur Baghdasaryan: All soldiers come from different families. There are children who might picture themselves as privileged, but there are no privileged military servicemen in the army. Armenian News-NEWS.am: So, there are no privileged soldiers in the army now? Artur Baghdasaryan: There are no overtly outstanding military servicemen with advantages because we are carrying out activities in that direction at military units and within different subdivisions. Armenian News-NEWS.am: There is a view that the incident at the military unit of Meghri was also the result of the poor work of the Military Police. Artur Baghdasaryan: We dont work poorly. Our military police officers perform their official duties. Armenian News-NEWS.am: Is there still enhanced surveillance at the military unit in Meghri after the incident? Artur Baghdasaryan: There has always been enhanced surveillance. Armenian News-NEWS.am: Are there often incidents at military units that commanders keep confidential and which cause such incidents? Artur Baghdasaryan: There can be such incidents, but we try to work closely with the commanders so that the incidents are not concealed. Armenian News-NEWS.am: What should be done to rule out such incidents in the army? Artur Baghdasaryan: The Military Police have to continue their explanatory and disciplinary works and take relevant preventive measures on their part in order to avoid the repetition of such incidents in the future. If there are military servicemen who violate the law, we present them to the administration of the particular military unit, after which the administration adopts a decision to keep the military serviceman at the military unit, move him to another military unit or subject him to disciplinary liability. Story Highlights 47% of Americans would vote for a socialist Willingness to vote for evangelical, Muslim or atheist candidates grows 76% would vote for gay or lesbian candidate -- a new high WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Less than half of Americans (47%) say they would vote for a qualified presidential candidate who is a socialist -- the same percentage Gallup found in 2015. A socialist candidate is the only one among a dozen hypothetical candidates about whom a minority of Americans say they are willing to give their vote. Americans' Willingness to Vote for Presidential Candidates From Certain Groups Between now and the 2016/2020 political conventions, there will be discussion about the qualifications of presidential candidates -- their education, age, religion, race and so on. If your party nominated a generally well-qualified person for president who happened to be _____, would you vote for that person? % Yes, would vote for 2015 2019 Change % % (pct. pts.) Black 92 96 +4 Catholic 93 95 +2 Hispanic 91 95 +4 A woman 92 94 +2 Jewish 91 93 +2 An evangelical Christian 73 80 +7 Gay or lesbian 74 76 +2 Under the age of 40 -- 71 -- Muslim 60 66 +6 Over the age of 70 -- 63 -- An atheist 58 60 +2 A socialist 47 47 0 Gallup Among religious identities, more than nine in 10 Americans say they are willing to vote for a qualified Catholic or Jewish candidate, while smaller majorities say they are willing to vote for an evangelical Christian (80%), a Muslim (66%) or an atheist (60%). Meanwhile, Americans are nearly universally willing to vote for a black (96%) or Hispanic (95%) candidate -- and the same is true for their willingness to vote for a woman (92%). More than three in four say they would vote for a gay or lesbian candidate. With a wide range of ages in the current field of candidates for president, Gallup finds that most Americans are willing to vote for a candidate over the age of 70 (63%), and an even larger majority would vote for a candidate under the age of 40 (71%). These data are from Gallup's latest poll, conducted April 17-30, as a large and diverse slate of candidates running for the Democratic nomination takes shape. Gallup has asked Americans about their willingness to vote for candidates with certain background characteristics since 1937, to see whether Americans were open to embracing nontraditional presidential candidates. Over time, Americans have become more likely to say they would vote for such candidates, and this has been manifested in the real world with the election of a black president in 2008, and major-party nominations for a Mormon candidate in 2012 and a female candidate in 2016, all firsts in U.S. presidential election history. More Openness to Candidates With Certain Religious Identities Than in Past Americans are now nearly universally willing to vote for a Jewish or Catholic presidential candidate, but this has not always been the case. In 1937, less than half of Americans said they would vote for a Jewish candidate and six in 10 said they would vote for a Catholic candidate. In recent years, Americans have also grown more open to voting for candidates of other religious identities. Eighty percent of U.S. adults would vote for an evangelical Christian for president -- up from 73% in 2015. Meanwhile, the percentage of Americans who would vote for a Muslim has grown from 58% in 2012 to 66% today. Atheist presidential candidates would face more resistance from voters than candidates of other religious backgrounds. But Americans have warmed to the idea of an atheist candidate over the past several decades. The current 60% who would vote for an atheist is more than three times the 18% Gallup recorded in its first measure on atheist candidates in 1958. New High in Willingness to Vote for a Gay Candidate As openly gay South Bend, Indiana, Mayor Pete Buttigieg's campaign for president has generated buzz in the Democratic nomination race, 76% of Americans report a willingness to vote for a gay or lesbian candidate -- a new high in Gallup's trend. Americans are now about three times as likely to say they would vote for a qualified gay or lesbian candidate for president as they were when Gallup first asked the question in 1978. Electability of Candidates With Certain Backgrounds Varies by Political Party The focus of the nomination campaign will be on the Democrats, with Republican President Donald Trump unlikely to face a serious challenge for the GOP nomination. Most Democrats are willing to vote for all of the groups Gallup asked about this year -- and many of these groups are represented by candidates in the current field. On the low end of Democrats' openness to candidates, about two in three Democrats say they would vote for a candidate over the age of 70, a potential weakness for current front-runners Joe Biden and Bernie Sanders. Democrats are much more likely to say they would vote for a candidate under the age of 40 (78%), which could potentially boost Buttigieg's chances in the primaries. Independents, too, are more likely to say they would vote for a candidate under 40 than a candidate over 70, while Republicans have similar preferences for the two age groups. As political figures espousing socialist ideas have gained popularity among their party in recent years, about three in four Democrats (74%) say they would support a self-identified socialist, up from 59% in 2015. This increase may partly be the result of Sanders' 2016 campaign, in which he touted some socialist ideas and had a solid performance in the primaries. Meanwhile, socialist candidates remain unpopular among the GOP rank-and-file -- 19% would vote for a socialist for president, down from 26% in 2015. Just 49% of independents would vote for a socialist, a potential problem for the Democrats if they nominate a left-leaning candidate who supports socialist-style programs. Only on the question of an evangelical Christian candidate do a larger proportion of Republicans than Democrats say they would vote for such a candidate. The 92% of Republicans saying they would vote for an evangelical Christian (compared with 71% of Democrats) is on par with this group's willingness to vote for a woman or a Hispanic. Willingness to Vote for President of Various Backgrounds, by Party Republicans Independents Democrats % Yes, would % Yes, would % Yes, would Black 94 96 99 Catholic 97 94 96 Hispanic 92 97 97 A woman 90 94 97 Jewish 94 91 94 An evangelical Christian 92 79 71 Gay or lesbian 61 82 83 Under the age of 40 65 71 78 Muslim 38 73 86 Over the age of 70 63 62 65 An atheist 42 66 71 A socialist 19 49 74 Gallup, April 17-30, 2019 Bottom Line With a large and diverse field of candidates competing for the Democratic nomination, next year's primaries and general election could result in the oldest or youngest president ever elected, as well as the first female, Hispanic, Jewish or gay president. Americans are mostly open to these possibilities -- though willingness to vote for candidates with these characteristics varies by political affiliation. Religious identification may be becoming less relevant in national politics, as most Americans are open to voting for all groups Gallup asks about. If these trends continue, evangelicals, Muslims and atheists may one day find their electability on par with that of Catholics and Jews -- both of which were once much more contentious for a presidential candidate. Gallup's first poll on the question in 1937, for example, found that 47% of Americans would vote for a Jewish candidate -- a far cry from the 93% today. The electability of a gay or lesbian candidate has also grown over time, much like Americans' views at large on gay rights and acceptance of this group. In spite of the expanded tolerance for diversity, candidates labeling themselves as socialists may struggle to gain traction in a presidential race, as Americans have not become more open to such a candidate. Even as political figures advocating socialist ideas have gained popularity in Democratic circles in recent years, less than half of Americans remain willing to give an avowed socialist candidate their vote. This creates a challenge for the Democratic Party, as it seeks to avoid alienating the Democratic socialists within its rank and file, while still aiming to win a national election. View complete question responses and trends (PDF download). Learn more about how the Gallup Poll Social Series works. Miami is one of the most dynamic cities on the planet; some would say a multicultural mosaic. For University of Miami graduates, the city is a place where they had the opportunity to learn from the diversity both within and beyond the classroom. At the morning graduate student Commencement ceremony, speaker Drew Gilpin Faust, the 28th president of Harvard University, reminded students how valuable it was for them to pursue their studies in a community diverse in race, ethnicity, religion, financial circumstances, political viewpoint, sexual orientation, and gender identity. You are prepared and positioned to help the world beyond this Universitys walls benefit as you have from the kaleidoscope of human identities and cultures that enrich our lives, said Faust. Having lived in this global crossroads, you see beyond national borders; you have experienced our global interdependence. Tia Georgette Wong graduated with her masters degree in industrial engineering knowing that her immediate future looks bright. UM and Miami have definitely opened my eyes to a larger world than I could have experienced in Michigan, she said. This place gave me a lot of opportunities and great exposure. The Grand Rapids, Michigan, native has a full-time job waiting for her at American Express in Sunrise, Florida. For Angeliki Moutsiopoulou, who earned her doctoral degree in chemistry, UM was everything she could have hoped for, providing her the opportunity not only to immerse herself in academics but also the chance to experience several cultures. The weather, the people, living close to the oceanUM was perfect, she said. Moutsiopoulou, who is from Patras, Greece, said she also found time to travel to Colombia, Cuba, and Puerto Rico. She plans to return to Europe and wants to work in the cosmetics industry. Faust, the first woman to lead the nation's oldest university, noted that interdependence was forcefully illustrated for students nearly two years ago when Hurricane Irma demonstrated disregard for borders as it swept across Caribbean nations, the Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, and South Florida. She noted that Irma left not just destruction, but some important lessons in its wake. I hope you will take from your time here a deep awareness of the way humans are interdependent, not just with one another across the globe, but with our natural environment, Faust said. She also noted resilience. Faust, who was awarded a Doctor of Humane Letters, said UMs mascot, the Ibis, is the defining symbol of what resilience represents. When Irma threatened, the University came together to repair and restore, supporting one another in an effort to emerge stronger, said Faust. Every job, every career, every life has its hurricanes. But you have weathered storms and are ready for those that inevitably lie ahead. UM President Julio Frenk also provided words of encouragement to those entering the world that is filled with exciting opportunities. You are equipped to make a difference, said Frenk. He added that he hopes students will take with them three principles that guide the institution. Respectful disagreement, the pursuit of truth, and the embrace of difference, he said. Now more than ever, we must practice these principles not only in our minds and our hearts, but in the actions we take every day. Fernando Henrique Cardoso, the 32nd president of Brazil, was the speaker in the afternoon graduate student ceremony, and was awarded an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree. During his speech, Cardoso reiterated the importance of truth while sharing his views on some of the challenges and risks that he believes people are facing as members of academic communities and as citizens of democratic countries. It is the concept of truth itself that is under attack, he said. The systematic dissemination of false or misleading information dissolves the frontiers between truth and lies, reality and ideology. Cardoso also shared how he thinks democracy is always a work in progress and an incomplete journey. As a democrat and a humanist, I learned in my eight years as president of Brazil that political power comes from the top, but trust comes from the people, he said. Cardoso called on students to be active members of society and fight for what they believe in. Our common challenge is to reweave the threads between truth and reality, society and politics, demos and res publica, he said. Writer Barbara Gutierrez contributed to this report. SIUs Hannah Colbrook is the Illinois Student Employee of the Year by Christi Mathis CARBONDALE, Ill. It was a day just like any other as Hannah Colbrook walked down the hallway of Southern Illinois University Carbondales Student Center. After all, the December 2019 communication studies graduate from Palatine, Illinois, has been a student employee there for several years. But on this spring day, she saw someone she recognized standing in the hallway actually, lots of people she recognized. And they werent all fellow students or co-workers. I realized almost all of my family was there and I got really confused, she recalls. Her bewilderment didnt last long because Colbrooks supervisor, Vamsi Manne, quickly made an announcement. The Student Center associate director told Colbrook she had been selected as SIUs 2019 Student Employee of the Year. And thats not all. Colbrook also won statewide Student Employee of the Year honors. Im completely shocked, she said. I didnt even know I was nominated. Its such a humbling experience to be honored by SIU and the state of Illinois. It was even more wonderful to be surrounded by my family, friends and co-workers when I found out. Far-reaching impact Supervisors nominate student employees they believe are especially deserving for recognition through the Student Employee of the Year Recognition Program, administered by the Midwest Association of Student Employment Administrators. Manne said he and his staff are thrilled that they discovered and hired Colbrook early in her time at SIU, giving her several years to work her magic at the Student Center. Hannahs impact in our office is immeasurable, Manne said. She has helped numerous visitors, assisted me with countless tasks, promoted the services and programs that our office offers, been an example to all of our students and been a positive asset to the office. Working at the front desk for nearly four years, Colbrook is often the face and voice of the Office of Student Engagement. During the academic year, the office welcomes an average of 150-200 visitors each week, with needs ranging from simple questions to very specialized requests. She fields customer service calls as well, and helps registered student organizations with a variety of tasks. Hannah makes each visitor or caller feel welcomed, heard and supported, Manne said. He said Colbrook remains calm, professional and helpful regardless of the attitude displayed by the people shes assisting. Moreover, he said she has an exemplary attendance record and can always be counted on not only to be at work, committed and following through on her obligations but also to show initiative, figuring out how to resolve issues and lend a hand to others whenever possible. When we hired Hannah, I felt like we hit the jackpot, Manne said. Saluki family legacy Colbrooks family has a strong Saluki legacy, and indeed one of those there to celebrate her spotlight moment was her uncle, Danny Tarr, the 1998 SIU Student Employee of the Year. Tarr earned his bachelors degree in aviation management at Carbondale and also claimed the student employee honor his senior year. Numerous other family members have attended SIU as well, amassing a diverse collection of degrees, beginning with grandparents on both sides of Colbrooks family. The Saluki legacy lineage includes: William Colbrook, Hannahs paternal grandfather, studied agriculture 1959-1960 before returning to Stonington to work on the family farm. He and wife Ellen Morgan Colbrook raised five children and their middle child, Robert, also made his way to SIU. James Tarr, Hannahs maternal grandfather, earned a bachelors degree in education Department of Workforce Education and Development Robert Colbrook, Hannahs father, completed his bachelors degree in aviation management in 1988. Christine Tarr, Hannahs mother, earned an associates degree in office systems and specialties in 1992. Bridget Tarr Gallagher, Hannahs aunt, who earned her bachelors degree in German education with a minor in English in 1986. Rachel Gallagher, a cousin, graduated cum laude in 2013 with a bachelors degree in mechanical engineering with a mathematics minor. Stephen Tarr, an uncle, completed his associates degree and then in 2000 his bachelors degree in radiological sciences (ultrasound). Three generations strong on both sides of the family, the entire Saluki lineage, except Stephen, were on hand to see Colbook receive her award from Meera Komarraju, provost and vice chancellor for academic affairs. The epitome of a good employee Colbrook is a great ambassador for the programs and services we offer, gives presentations to students at New Student Programs and Open House events, and played an instrumental role establishing the marketing plan and rules for the Bowling and Billiards new RSO Night program and promoting it. He noted that her impact has extended beyond her job as well, as she was instrumental in helping her roommates get campus jobs, where they have also proven to be very valued employees. Her influence and excellence is evident in other ways, too, according to Manne. Hannah is not only the epitome of the ideal student employee, shes also a poster-child for the ultimate student leader, because she has maximized her opportunities on campus, he said. Beyond student employment, Hannah is a successful student with a 3.2 GPA. Very involved To say Colbrook has been busy during her time at SIU is a huge understatement. She worked at the front desk in the Office of Student Engagement and worked for Jerry Kill when he was hired as the special assistant to the Chancellor. Shes also been involved in extra-curricular activities, including serving in leadership roles. Colbrook served as vice president of operations for the Public Relations Student Society of America, was a student planner on the SIU 150th Committee, and was a student voice on the 2018 Culture of Respect Committee, a Division of Student Affairs campaign group working on campus Title IX issues. Its all proven a comprehensive, enjoyable experience for Colbrook. SIU has been very influential on my life, Colbrook said. Ive learned so much here, not just in the classroom but outside of the classroom. I started out as a STEM major and then I changed my major to communication studies. Ive learned to persevere, Ive learned the importance of hard work and a good work ethic. Ive learned to be a better person. Shes currently excitedly planning to study abroad in Dublin this fall. Overcoming obstacles College life hasnt necessarily been easy for Colbrook. For financial reasons, she took nine months off of school in 2017, working as many as four jobs at a time in order to earn money and get back in school. She resumed her academic career that fall. Here, too, she parlayed her experience into something positive, sharing her story with other students facing similar hardships and challenges in order to inspire them to persist and succeed. I have complete faith that Hannah will be an ambassador for the university after graduation and that the ripple effects of her impact will be felt far and wide beyond SIU, Manne said. Paying it forward Colbrook will graduate in December and is looking forward to the next chapter in her life, where shes determined to continue helping other people. Shell be seeking employment with a health-related or other non-profit organization, alumni group, or similar organization to help raise funds for people or groups in need. She said shes been able to succeed thanks to hard work combined with loans and scholarships and she wants to help others meet their needs and succeed, too. I want to work in donor communications, building connections, professional relationships and increasing donations, she said. I dont care where I end up as long as I can pay it forward and help people. McLeod Summer Playhouse Hosting additional special auditions for area children by Myah Gary CARBONDALE, Ill. The McLeod Summer Playhouse is offering an opportunity for ambitious young performers to audition for the upcoming musical Gypsy. On May 23-25, Southern Illinois University Carbondales professional theater company will hold special auditions for area children to fill the featured roles of Baby Junes Newsboys in the musical. Young actors who can play boys ages 10-12 are welcomed to audition. Set an appointment now Auditions will be held on the SIU Campus at Altgeld Hall in Room 116. Audition slots are by appointment only. Performers must sing and dance well. Prepared singing or acting pieces are not necessary, as music and acting sides will be provided and taught at the audition. All children auditioning must live or have housing with an approved guardian in the Southern Illinois area during the times of rehearsals and must have transportation to and from the rehearsal spaces in Carbondale. Parents and guardians are encouraged to become familiar with the play and the roles. Gypsy production Gypsy, considered by many critics as Americas greatest work of musical theater, has a book by Arthur Laurents, lyrics by Stephen Sondheim and music by Jule Styne. It tells the story of the early life of famed stripper-celebrity, Gypsy Rose Lee, and her indomitable Momma Rose. Auditions are specifically for the upcoming production of Gypsy this summer. Performances are set for July 12-14 and July 19-21. To schedule an audition or for more information, please contact McLeod Summer Playhouse at 618-453-5741 or email mcleodsummerplayhouse@gmail.com. The McLeod Summer Playhouse 2019 Season is sponsored by SIH. 5353 Wilcox Road. | Photos: Zumper Curious just how far your dollar goes in Tuttle West? According to Walk Score, this Columbus neighborhood requires a car for most errands, has minimal bike infrastructure and offers limited transit options. Data from rental site Zumper shows that the median rent for a one bedroom in Tuttle West is currently hovering around $650. So, what might you expect to find if you don't want to spend more than $1,000 / month on rent? Read on for a roundup of the latest rental offerings, via Zumper. (Note: prices and availability are subject to change.) Hoodline offers data-driven analysis of local happenings and trends across cities. Links included in this article may earn Hoodline a commission on clicks and transactions. 5252 Riggins Run First, listed at $999/month, this 725-square-foot studio is located at 5252 Riggins Run. In the unit, you can expect hardwood floors, in-unit laundry and a walk-in closet. Building amenities include a swimming pool, a fitness center and a residents' lounge. For those with furry friends in tow, know that cats and dogs are welcome on this property. (Check out the complete listing here.) 5284 Avery Road Next, there's this one-bedroom, one-bathroom over at 5284 Avery Road. It's listed for $979/month for its 675 square feet of space. The building features outdoor space, a swimming pool and a fitness center. In the unit, there is a walk-in closet and in-unit laundry. Luckily for pet owners, both dogs and cats are welcome. (Take a gander at the complete listing here.) 5353 Wilcox Road Finally, here's a 755-square-foot one-bedroom, one-bathroom at 5353 Wilcox Road that's going for $952/month. In the furnished unit, you'll get high ceilings, a balcony and a walk-in closet. The building features on-site laundry, a swimming pool and a fitness center. Good news for animal lovers: both dogs and cats are welcome here. (See the full listing here.) This story was created automatically using local real estate data, then reviewed by an editor. Click here for more about what we're doing. Got thoughts? Go here to share your feedback. (Updates May 8 story after Reuters interview with Baghdadi) By Nerijus Adomaitis and Lefteris Karagiannopoulos OSLO, May 9 (Reuters) - A prominent Arab pro-democracy campaigner living in political asylum in Norway said he had been warned by the Norwegian security services about a possible threat against him from Saudi Arabia. Iyad el-Baghdadi is a Palestinian human rights campaigner and writer who won prominence during the 2011 Arab uprisings and has written critically of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. He has lived in Oslo since 2015. Baghdadi said that on April 25, the Norwegian security services took him to a secure location and told him of the possible threat against him. "Once I was there and settled down, they told me that ... they have received a tip from a partner intelligence agency indicating that I've been the target of a threat," he told Reuters. The Saudi embassy in Oslo was not immediately available for comment. Saudi Arabia's government communications office did not respond to a request for comment. Baghdadi said the Norwegian authorities did not name the partner agency, but that from the context of the conversation he had inferred that they were referring to the U.S. Central Intelligence Agency. The Norwegian justice ministry, which is in charge of the security services, the Norwegian security police and the foreign ministry all declined to comment. The CIA also declined to comment when contacted by Reuters. Baghdadi said there could be six or seven reasons why Saudi Arabia would target him, without elaborating. He said he spent around three hours at the April meeting discussing with members of Norway's PST security service why he might be at risk. Saudi Arabia has come under increasing global scrutiny over its human rights record since the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi last year inside the kingdom's Istanbul consulate and the detention of around a dozen women's rights activists. Story continues A bipartisan chorus of U.S. lawmakers has called on the White House to harden its stance toward Saudi Arabia after Khashoggi, a critic of Prince Mohammed, was killed by Saudi agents in a move widely seen as an attempt to stifle dissent. A CIA assessment has blamed Prince Mohammed for ordering the killing, which Saudi officials deny. (Additional reporting by Stephen Kalin in Riyadh, Jonathan Landay in Washington, writing by Gwladys Fouche, Editing by William Maclean/Nick Tattersall) (Adds details, quote, and background) BAGHDAD, May 9 (Reuters) - A suicide bomber killed and wounded several people in a marketplace in Baghdad on Thursday, the Iraqi military said. Local media said at least eight people were killed. Reuters was unable to independently verify the death toll. The evening attack took place days after the start of the holy month of Ramadan, when devout Muslims fast from dawn to sunset and tend to congregate in public places after breaking their fast. The bomber detonated an explosive belt in the Jameela marketplace in Baghdad's northeastern Sadr City district while surrounded by security forces, the Baghdad Operations Command said in a statement. It said the attack, for which there was no immediate claim of responsibility, had claimed "a number of martyrs and wounded." Iraq declared victory over Islamic State militants in 2017, three years after the jihadist group took over vast swathes of the country. Its fighters have since adapted their tactics to focus on insurgent-style attacks. (Reporting by Ahmed Aboulenein; editing by John Stonestreet) A section of Mt Kenya politicians has called on Deputy President William Ruto to pick National Assembly Speaker Justin Muturi as his running mate in 2022. Led by Mbeere North MP Muriuki Njagagua, the lawmakers said Mt Kenya region will fully support Ruto should he pick Muturi as his running mate. They noted that Muturi has not been implicated in any corruption scandals and has vast experience in public service. Speaking during a thanksgiving ceremony for Manyatta MP John Muchiri, the Mbeere North MP said Speaker Muturi would be ahead of the pack of those eyeing the Deputy President post in Rutos government. Njagaguas remarks were backed by Kikuyu MP Kimani Ichungwa, who noted that Embu county has faithfully supported past regimes and should be considered for the running mate position. Embu county residents cannot be taken for granted. They supported Mzee Jomo Kenyatta, [Daniel] Moi and [Mwai] Kibakis regimes and overwhelmingly voted for the Jubilee government. What Embu people will decide is what we shall go by, Ichungwa said. Mr Murugara Gitonga, Tharaka Nithi MP, added that he will try to convince Tharaka Nithi Senator Kithure Kindiki, who is also eyeing the running mate post, to relinquish his bid in support of Muturi. While nominated MP Cecily Mbarire stated that 2022 is the time for Mt Kenya to return the favour to Ruto for supporting President Uhuru Kenyatta for two terms. Ruto, who was in attendance, said Jubilee Party will decide who will be the flagbearer for every seat when the time comes. He agreed that Justin Muturi has a wealth of experience as he was the Chief Whip when they were the leaders of the opposition. The DP further urged the lawmakers to support Muturi fully to work for the people of Kenya as Speaker in the remaining years. * 27 leaders met two weeks before European Parliament elections * Vow unity 'through thick and thin' after Brexit divorce * Focus on climate, rule of law, security and modern growth * Race starts for five top EU jobs up for grabs later this year (Updates after summit ends) By Gabriela Baczynska and Luiza Ilie SIBIU, Romania, May 9 (Reuters) - Fighting climate change, safeguarding the rule of law and finding a modern model for growth must be at the heart of the European Union, the bloc's leaders agreed in Thursday talks meant to show unity despite the damage from Brexit. However, their informal gathering in the Romanian town of Sibiu did not produce clear decisions on how to achieve the ambitious goals, underscoring divisions in the EU along multiple fault lines and setting up battles ahead. The leaders of all members except Britain met on Europe Day in Sibiu, which has German and Hungarian roots, 15 years after the EU's expansion east finally consigned to history the Iron Curtain that had divided Europe since World War Two. Ahead of European Parliament elections on May 23-26, the 27 leaders also had a first look at assigning the bloc's most powerful jobs later this year. "In 15 days, some 400 million Europeans will choose between a project ... to build Europe further or a project to destroy, deconstruct Europe and return to nationalism," Macron told the gathering. "Climate, protection of borders and a model of growth, a social model... is what I really want for the coming years." On climage change, France and eight other EU countries proposed getting to "net-zero greenhouse gas emissions" by 2050 and the bloc will now fight about how to frame and finance any transition to more environmentally-friendly policies. "Nothing has changed when it comes to divides and different opinions about it," said the chairman of the talks, European Council President Donald Tusk who used to be the prime minister of Poland, one of the biggest EU stallers on climate reforms. Story continues "What is new is this very fresh and energetic pressure," he said of youth protests growing in Europe to demand radical action to safeguard the planet. "There is no future for politicians without this sensitivity and imagination." German Chancellor Angela Merkel, mindful of her country's powerful car industry, refused to endorse the French-led proposal entirely but backed spending a quarter of the EU's next joint budget for 2021-28 on climate and energy efficiency. A report released on Thursday by the World Wide Fund (WWF) and Global Footprint Network sharply criticized the EU, saying its members consumed the Earth's resources faster than they can be renewed. The leaders pledged to protect the rule of law at a time when the governments in post-communist members Poland, Hungary and Romania stand accused of undercutting democracy. Divided over issues ranging from democratic standards to migration, the EU is grappling with the prospect of Britain's departure, a wave of populism, and external challenges from China to Russia to the United States. It is also lagging behind in areas from artificial intelligence to cyber security, and is scrambling to keep alive a troubled nuclear deal with Iran. But the leaders signed off on a declaration promising to "defend one Europe," "stay united, through thick and thin" and "always look for joint solutions" ahead. TOP JOBS UP FOR GRABS Tusk announced another summit on May 28, two days after the European Parliament vote, to let the national leaders agree on appointing new people to hold the EU's top roles until 2024. This will involve fierce horse-trading over names to head the European Council, which brings together national leaders, the executive European Commission, the European Parliament, the European Central Bank and the joint diplomatic service. All five posts are up for grabs later this year and the outgoing European Parliament has already picked its favorites for the Commission job including a conservative German, Manfred Weber, and a Dutch socialist, Frans Timmermans. Many national leaders, however, want to keep control of the opaque process to themselves. Agreement on top roles took three summits the last time round but Tusk said he wanted the new leadership in place in July and was ready to go for a majority vote if unanimity was missing. Hungary's eurosceptic Prime Minister Viktor Orban and Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras spoke against Weber. He did, however, get the backing of Merkel and Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz. Macron, the leaders of Luxembourg and Lithuania opposed the idea of following the parliament's choice. Other names in the hat include Brexit negotiator Frenchman Michel Barnier, or Margrethe Vestager, Denmark's current commissioner who imposed hefty fines on global tech giants Google and Apple. (Reporting by Luiza Ilie, Gabriela Baczynska, Andreas Rinke in Sibiu, Jan Strupczewski and Philip Blenkinsop in Brussels, Michel Rose in Paris and Michael Nienaber in Berlin Writing by Gabriela Baczynska Editing by Hugh Lawson, Angus MacSwan and Frances Kerry) * STOXX 600 clocks lowest close in a month and a half * All STOXX 600 sub-sectors apart from real estate fall * Auto-makers and suppliers' stocks drop 2.9 pct * U.S. hike on Chinese goods to go in effect between trade talks (Updates to close, adds graphic, market analyst's quote, recasts) By Aaron Saldanha May 9 (Reuters) - European shares slid on Thursday, with investors exiting positions in favor of safer assets as they waited to see if U.S.-China talks will yield tangible results and help avert worsening trade ties which threaten to slow global growth. An increase in U.S. tariff on imports from China is set to be triggered on Friday, while Chinese Vice Premier Liu He starts two days of talks in Washington on Thursday. His country has asked the United States to meet it halfway to salvage a deal. However, U.S. President Donald Trump's insistence that China "broke the deal" and Beijing's response that it would retaliate against a planned U.S. tariff increase dampened the prospect of a trade agreement which would calm investors' nerves. The pan-European STOXX 600 index fell 1.7 percent to clock a 1-1/2 month closing low as almost all sectors declined, while the volatility gauge on euro zone blue-chips hit its highest in more than four months during the day. "European equity markets are in turmoil... Europe is getting hit in the cross-fire because when the two largest economies in the world engage in a trade war, it bodes badly for everyone," David Madden, market analyst at CMC Markets UK, wrote in a note. Trade-sensitive German stocks declined 1.7 percent in their biggest one-day fall in three months. Paris-traded equities gave up 1.9 percent, while their peers in Milan eased 1.8 percent. Stocks of auto-makers and their suppliers tumbled 2.9 percent. Automotive supplier Continental's shares dived 5.3 percent. It reported a 22 percent slump in net profit on slowing global car demand and said its powertrain division's spin-off will depend on the auto market recovering. Story continues Technology shares dropped 2.3 percent, with all but two stocks on the sector's index ending lower. Tariff-sensitive auto and tech stocks have significantly underperformed the STOXX 600 this month amid worsening U.S.-China trade ties, as shown by the chart below. Shares of luxury goods firms, broadly reliant on China for growth demand, dropped. Gucci owner Kering fell 2.7 percent, while Paris-listed Hermes International dropped 1.8 percent. Bank shares fell 2.3 percent, with each lender's stock falling. Italy's Banco BPM dived 8.2 percent after a slide in revenues dragged down its profits. With growth concerns being the theme of the day, ArcelorMittal shares dived 6.1 percent after the steelmaker cut demand forecast for its key markets and said it was facing the twin challenges of lower steel prices and lower consumption in Europe. Real estate stocks, broadly considered a defensive sector, were the rare bright spot on the day as they tacked on 0.4 percent. Leg Immobilien AG climbed 2.9 percent, as it confirmed its goal for a core earnings margin of 73 percent in 2019. (Reporting by Aaron Saldanha and Medha Singh in Bengaluru; Editing by Hugh Lawson) (Adds new letter from Congress on privacy, paragraphs 8-9) By David Shepardson WASHINGTON, May 9 (Reuters) - Facebook Inc quickly rejected a call from co-founder Chris Hughes on Thursday to split the world's largest social media company in three, while lawmakers urged the U.S. Justice Department to launch an antitrust investigation. Facebook has been under scrutiny from regulators around the world over data sharing practices as well as hate speech and misinformation on its networks. Some U.S. lawmakers have pushed for action to break up big tech companies as well as federal privacy regulation. "We are a nation with a tradition of reining in monopolies, no matter how well intentioned the leaders of these companies may be. Mark's power is unprecedented and un-American," Hughes, a former college roommate of Facebook Chief Executive Mark Zuckerberg, wrote https://www.nytimes.com/2019/05/09/opinion/sunday/chris-hughes-facebook-zuckerberg.html in a lengthy New York Times opinion piece. Facebook's social network has more than 2 billion users. It also owns WhatsApp, Messenger and Instagram, each used by more than 1 billion people. Facebook bought Instagram in 2012 and WhatsApp in 2014. Facebook rejected Hughes' call for WhatsApp and Instagram to be made into separate companies, and said the focus should instead be on regulating the internet. Zuckerberg will be in Paris on Friday to discuss internet regulation with French President Emmanuel Macron. "Facebook accepts that with success comes accountability. But you don't enforce accountability by calling for the break up of a successful American company," Facebook spokesman Nick Clegg said in a statement. "Accountability of tech companies can only be achieved through the painstaking introduction of new rules for the internet. That is exactly what Mark Zuckerberg has called for." Late on Thursday, Senator Mike Crapo, the Republican who chairs the banking committee and Sherrod Brown, the top Democrat, asked Facebook to answer questions about a potential cryptocurrency-based payments system using its social network and its data collection. Story continues The letter also asked questions about consumer privacy protections and if it had information about users' creditworthiness. U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal, a Democrat, told CNBC he thinks Facebook should be broken up and that the Justice Department's antitrust division needs to begin an investigation. Antitrust law makes such a proposal tough to execute because the government would have to take the company to court and win. It is rare to break up a company but not unheard of, with Standard Oil and AT&T being the two biggest examples. SENSE OF RESPONSIBILITY Hughes co-founded Facebook in 2004 at Harvard with Zuckerberg and Dustin Moskovitz. He left Facebook in 2007, and has said in a LinkedIn post https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/i-made-half-billion-dollars-three-years-work-heres-what-chris-hughes he made half a billion dollars for his three years of work. "It's been 15 years since I co-founded Facebook at Harvard, and I haven't worked at the company in a decade. But I feel a sense of anger and responsibility," Hughes said. Facebook lost several executives after a bruising series of privacy and disinformation scandals since 2016. The founders of Instagram and WhatsApp have left, as has the executive who took over WhatsApp last year. Chief Product Officer Chris Cox, who had been at the company for 13 years and was one of Zuckerberg's closest lieutenants, stepped down in March around the same time Facebook announced a pivot towards more private messaging. He later cited "artistic differences" with Zuckerberg as his reason for leaving, without elaborating. Critics say the company's pivot to privacy, which will introduce more encrypted communications, will restrict Facebook's ability to police propaganda, hate speech and other abusive behavior. Cox focused on improving tools to catch banned content in recent years. Despite its scandals, the company's core business has proven resilient. Facebook has blown past earnings estimates in the past two quarters and its stock price barely budged in response to Hughes' opinion piece. Hughes suggested Zuckerberg should be held responsible for privacy and other lapses at the company, echoing a call earlier this month by Democratic U.S. Senator Ron Wyden to hold the CEO individually liable for "repeated violations" of privacy. "The government must hold Mark accountable. For too long, lawmakers have marveled at Facebook's explosive growth and overlooked their responsibility to ensure that Americans are protected and markets are competitive," Hughes said. LAWMAKER PRESSURE Senator Elizabeth Warren, who is seeking the Democratic nomination for the 2020 presidential election, has vowed https://www.cnbc.com/2019/03/08/reuters-america-update-4-wall-st-critic-warren-vows-to-break-up-amazon-facebook-google.html to break up Facebook, Amazon.com Inc and Alphabet Inc's Google if elected. "Today's big tech companies have too much powerover our economy, our society, & our democracy. They've bulldozed competition, used our private info for profit, hurt small businesses & stifled innovation. It's time to #BreakUpBigTech," Warren said on Twitter on Thursday. Representative Ro Khanna, a California Democrat, said in a statement he agreed in retrospect that U.S. regulators should not have approved Facebook's acquisition of Instagram and WhatsApp. "The way forward is to heavily scrutinize future mergers and to ensure no company has anti-competitive platform privileges," Khanna said. In one of a number of scandals to hit the company, Facebook is accused of inappropriately sharing information belonging to 87 million users with the now-defunct British political consulting firm Cambridge Analytica. Facebook has been in advanced talks with the U.S. Federal Trade Commission to settle a year-old investigation and said last month it expected to spend between $3 billion and $5 billion. On Monday, Republican and Democratic U.S. senators criticized reported plans for the settlement, calling on the FTC to impose harsher penalties and more restrictions on Facebook's business practices. Hughes said he last met with Zuckerberg in the summer of 2017, several months before the Cambridge Analytica scandal broke. "Mark is a good, kind person. But I'm angry that his focus on growth led him to sacrifice security and civility for clicks," Hughes said. Adam Mosseri, Facebook's previous head of news feed who recently took over Instagram, responded to Hughes on Twitter. "Regulation is important and necessary, but I'm not convinced breaking us up is the right path. Would love to chat about it if you're open," Mosseri said. (Reporting by Supantha Mukherjee in Bengaluru, David Shepardson and Diane Bartz in Washington and Katie Paul in San Francisco; Editing by Arun Koyyur and Meredith Mazzilli) (Adds additional testimony from witness) By Brendan Pierson NEW YORK, May 9 (Reuters) - Some members of an alleged New York sex cult believed their leader had the power to heal the sick and affect the weather, in addition to teaching them self-improvement, a 12-year veteran of the organization said at the founder's criminal trial. Filmmaker Mark Vicente is the second witness to testify against Keith Raniere, who faces crimes including sex trafficking and child pornography for his role running a secretive upstate New York group known as Nxivm. Prosecutors said Raniere forced female "slaves" to have sex with him and in some cases branded them with his initials. "It's a well-intended veneer that covers a horrible evil," an emotional Vicente said during the trial's third day in federal court in Brooklyn. Raniere, who presented himself as a genius whose unique insights would lead to deeply fulfilling lives, enjoyed a near-mythical reputation among his acolytes, said Vicente. "There were rumblings about abilities he had" among Raniere's closest associates, including healing people and influencing the weather, Vicente said. He also said the group's president, Nancy Salzman, once told him, "There's a path to enlightenment through sexuality, and Raniere understands that path." Raniere, 58, has pleaded not guilty. If convicted, he faces life in prison. Prosecutors say women were blackmailed into having sex with Raniere and branded as part of a secret society within Nxivm called DOS, an acronym for a Latin phrase, "Dominus Obsequious Sororium," that roughly means "master of the obedient female companions." Defense lawyer Marc Agnifilo has argued at the trial that members joined voluntarily and were never forced to do anything against their will. Vicente, who has spoken out against Raniere since breaking away from the group in 2017, said Salzman contacted him around 2005 after seeing a film Vicente made about quantum physics and philosophy, saying she wanted to introduce him to Raniere. Story continues That meeting led Vicente to begin his association with the group, and he eventually became Nxivm's unofficial videographer, he told jurors. He described how Nxivm members wore an array of striped colored sashes to show their rank, and were encouraged to make their way up the "stripe path." As he rose in the organization, Vicente discovered that Nxivm spied on its members by placing surveillance cameras in their driveways and pressured them to spend thousands of dollars to take its classes. A former Nxivm and DOS member who was only identified by her first name, Sylvie, told jurors on Wednesday she was recruited as a "slave" to another woman in the organization. Her "master" eventually ordered her to engage in sexual activity with Raniere, who also took nude photos of her, she said. Other individuals who say they were victims of the group are expected to testify. Five of Raniere's co-defendants, including the former president Salzman, Seagram liquor heiress Clare Bronfman and former "Smallville" television actress Allison Mack, have pleaded guilty to related crimes. (Reporting by Brendan Pierson, additional reporting by Joseph Ax; Editing by Scott Malone and Jonathan Oatis) (Adds details on 2019 forecast, background) May 9 (Reuters) - Pipeline company Kinder Morgan Canada Ltd said on Thursday it would continue as a stand-alone entity, following a strategic review that considered options including a sale. The company said its decision was consistent with the recommendation of a special committee of independent directors not affiliated with Kinder Morgan Inc, which holds about 70 percent majority voting interest in the Canadian entity. Kinder Morgan Inc said in October that it was exploring all options for Kinder Morgan Canada, as it saw a sellers' market for the Canadian company's assets. Kinder Morgan Canada highlighted its infrastructure operations across western Canada, underpinned by multi-year take-or-pay contracts, and stable cash flows for its decision to remain independent. Kinder Morgan Canada said it expects adjusted core earnings of about $213 million and distributable cash flow from continuing operations of about $109 million in 2019. The company said it plans to invest about $32 million in expansion projects, in line with its budget. (Reporting by Arathy S Nair in Bengaluru; Editing by Anil D'Silva) (Adds quote, background) MEXICO CITY, May 9 (Reuters) - No deaths were reported after a fuel pipeline exploded in southern Mexico, an emergency services official said on Thursday, adding that a fire triggered by the blast was under control. Mexican state oil firm Pemex is investigating the incident that occurred in one of its pipelines in southern Chiapas state, a company spokesperson said. David Leon, Mexico's head of emergency services, said the pipeline burst late on Wednesday in the Reforma municipality of Chiapas. The fire had yet to be extinguished but was under control, he said. "I don't have any reports that human life was lost," he told Mexican television station Milenio. Two incinerated cars were found at the blast site, Reforma mayor Herminio Valdez told Milenio. They were likely being used to transport stolen fuel, he said. In January, at least 117 people died when a Pemex pipeline exploded in the state of Hidalgo shortly after President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador launched a crackdown on rampant fuel theft, ordering pipelines closed in an effort to stamp out criminal activity. (Reporting by Ana Isabel Martinez, Writing by Daina Beth Solomon; Editing by David Alire Garcia and James Dalgleish) (Recasts headline, adds Pompeo leaving London and background) LONDON, May 9 (Reuters) - U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has postponed his visit to Greenland because he needs to return to Washington, the State Department said on Thursday. "Secretary Pompeo must postpone his visit to Greenland due to a need for the secretary to be in Washington, D.C., today," spokeswoman Mortgan Ortagus said. Pompeo had been due to visit Greenland on Thursday, but left London bound for Washington instead. U.S. President Donald Trump on Wednesday imposed new sanctions on Iran, targeting revenue from its exports of industrial metals, the latest salvo in tensions between Washington and Tehran over a 2015 international accord curbing the Islamic Republic's nuclear program. Pompeo told Britain on Wednesday it needed to change its attitude towards China and telecoms company Huawei, casting the world's second largest economy as a threat to the West similar to that once posed by the Soviet Union. (Reporting by Guy Faulconbridge Editing by Paul Tait) (Adds background) WASHINGTON, May 9 (Reuters) - U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo cut short a European trip and returned to Washington for meetings on Iran and North Korea, a senior State Department official said on Thursday. Pompeo first changed his plans to have meetings on Iran after U.S. President Donald Trump on Wednesday imposed fresh sanctions on Iran over its nuclear program. The sanctions target revenue from industrial metal exports in the latest escalation of tensions between Washington and Tehran. Then, on Thursday, North Korea also joined the agenda, after the South Korean military said North Korea had fired missiles, less than one week after North Korean leader Kim Jong Un oversaw the test-firing of rockets and a missile. Pompeo had been scheduled to visit Greenland on Thursday, but instead left London for Washington. The tests by North Korea were its first of a ballistic missile since Pyongyang launched an intercontinental ballistic missile in November 2017. Since then, Kim has held two summits with Trump, but the second summit with Trump broke down. (Reporting by Makini Brice Editing by Chizu Nomiyama) (Adds comments from Villalba mayor) By Luis Valentin Ortiz SAN JUAN, May 9 (Reuters) - Puerto Rico's financial oversight board on Thursday unexpectedly added the island's towns and cities to its mandate, a move that it said was aimed at trying to help them avoid insolvency. To date, the federally created board has only focused on the central government of the U.S. territory, which filed for bankruptcy in 2017 as it sought to restructure about $120 billion of debt and pension obligations. Board officials said the move was not aimed at eliminating local governments or pushing them into bankruptcy. "This is absolutely not a takeover of anything," Jose Carrion, the board's chairman, told reporters, adding that the purpose was to help cities improve their finances and services. However, Christian Sobrino, Governor Ricardo Rossello's representative on the board, questioned if the board had the capacity to fully oversee municipal governments. "I would not recommend designating all 78 municipalities as covered entities. But that is the board's prerogative," Sobrino said. "The board lacks the personnel and resources. It is a lot of work," he added. The board said it will launch a pilot program with 10 local governments. The 10 will be required to submit fiscal plans by June 7 that include spending cuts, efficiency measures like shared services, as well as programs to improve revenue collection and boost economic development. Central government subsidies to municipalities are expected to be phased out by 2024. Luis Hernandez, mayor of Villalba, one of the municipalities in the pilot program, said board officials had told the mayors that they would provide technical resources to help. "The board understood that towns are the ones that directly provide services to citizens. They vowed to help us," Hernandez said. The board also certified a new fiscal plan for the island that shows a surplus of about $20 billion in the next 30 years, and includes revised macroeconomic, revenue and expense data. The plan also revises economic growth estimates resulting from structural changes that the government has not fully implemented. "You can't expect economic growth until (structural reform) is actually implemented," said Natalie Jaresko, the board's executive director. (Reporting by Luis Valentin Ortiz in San Juan and Karen Pierog in Chicago Editing by Matthew Lewis and Rosalba O'Brien) * France is one of Saudi Arabia's main arms suppliers * Report showed weapons used against civilians in Yemen * All sides in Yemen may have committed war crimes-UN (Changes dateline, adds map data, local official, update on case) By Benoit Tessier and John Irish LE HAVRE, France, May 9 (Reuters) - Two French human rights group on Thursday sought to block the loading of weapons onto a Saudi Arabian vessel that is due to dock in northern France later in the day, the groups said, arguing the cargo contravened an international arms treaty. The move comes weeks after an online investigative site published leaked French military intelligence that showed weapons sold to the kingdom, including tanks and laser-guided missile systems, were being used against civilians in Yemen's war. France is one of Saudi Arabia's main arms' suppliers, but Paris has faced increasing pressure to review its sales because the four-year-old conflict has shattered Yemen's economy and created one of the world's worst humanitarian crises. Speaking on behalf of rights group ACAT, lawyer Joseph Brehem told Reuters he had filed a legal suit to prevent the weapons being loaded aboard the Bahri-Yanbu, a cargo ship operating for Saudi Arabia's defense and interior ministries, on the basis of an article of the U.N. Arms Trade Treaty. A second group, ASER, has also filed the same complaint at a different court. "The article says that one country cannot authorize the transfer of weapons if at the time of the authorisation, the country knew that weapons could be used to commit war crimes," he said. A judge will announce a decision on the case Friday. France's Armed Forces Minister Florence Parly on Wednesday confirmed the vessel would take delivery of French arms relating to an order dating back several years. Investigative website Disclose said this week that eight howitzer Caesar cannons, manufactured by Nexter, were part of the order. The French government declined to give details on the contents of the arms order. Story continues GUARANTEES France is a signatory of the U.N. Arms Trade Treaty that regulates the international trade of conventional weapons and bans the sale of weapons that fuel human rights violations or war crimes. U.N. experts have said all sides in the Yemeni conflict may have committed war crimes. Ship tracking data showed that the Bahri-Yanbu has been at anchor 25 km (15 miles) from Le Havre, turning in circles since it was expected to arrive on Wednesday evening. It was unclear why the boat had yet to dock. It is due to leave with its cargo on Friday night. An official for Jean-Paul Lecoq, member of parliament for Le Havre, said the ship would have to go through a lock at the port, which could easily be stopped by dockers. "I think the authorities are bothered by this. They could try to divert the cargo to another port, French or foreign," the official said. About 100 people were protesting at the port on Thursday evening with signs saying 'No to arms sales" and "Far from the eyes, bullets in our hearts." The incident is awkward for President Emmanuel Macron and his government, which has said that as far as it knows French-made arms sold to Saudi Arabia are used solely for defensive purposes on the border. Macron said on Thursday that he had obtained guarantees from Saudi Arabia that weapons were not being used against civilians. He also defended sales to Saudi Arabia, which he called a key ally in the fight against terrorism. "Most of the weapons that have been sold are used inside (Saudi) territory or at the border, but they are used in the conflict," he told reporters in Sibiu, Romania, ahead of a summit of EU leaders. (Additional reporting by Sophie Louet and Antony Paone; writing by John Irish; Editing by Richard Lough, William Maclean) Lets look at some of the biggest world headlines today. Iranian leader announces partial withdrawal from nuclear deal Iran will partially withdraw from a landmark nuclear deal signed with six other nations in 2015, amid heightened pressure from the United States in recent weeks. New York Times: Tax documents show Trump businesses lost more than $1 billion in a decade President Donald Trumps businesses reported losses of $1.17 billion from 1985 to 1994, The New York Times reported Tuesday, citing information from tax documents from those years. Pompeo makes unannounced trip to Iraq to discuss tensions with Iran Secretary of State Mike Pompeo made an unannounced trip to Iraq on Tuesday after abruptly canceling a planned trip to Berlin amid escalating tensions with Iran. South Africa is the worlds most unequal nation. 25 years of democracy havent bridged the divide Despite 25 years of democracy, South Africa remains the most economically unequal country in the world, according to the World Bank. If anything, the Rainbow Nation is even more divided now than it was in 1994. Satellite images may reveal Chinas next aircraft carrier New satellite images published by a US think tank may provide the worlds first look at Chinas next aircraft carrier, as construction progresses on a mysterious large vessel in a shipyard outside Shanghai. Uber, Lyft drivers plan to strike in more than a dozen major cities Ride-hailing drivers in more than a dozen cities plan to strike on Wednesday ahead of Ubers highly anticipated Wall Street debut. Brad Pitt responds to question about reuniting with Jennifer Aniston The two stars have been divorced since 2005 and have married (and divorced) other people since then. But that hasnt stopped the publics fascination with them getting back together. Germany is opening its first electric highway for trucks Germany has on Tuesday opened its first e-highway, where hybrid trucks connect to overhead power lines while driving underneath. Duterte administration hits back at claims president is involved in drug syndicate Philippines President Rodrigo Dutertes administration has strongly denied he has links to a drug syndicate, dismissing explosive allegations made by a man who went by the online pseudonym Bikoy. UK will take part in European elections The UK will have to hold European elections, despite hopes from the government a Brexit deal would be done by then, says the PMs de facto deputy. The vote is due on 23 May, but Theresa May said the UK would not have to take part if MPs agreed a Brexit plan first. Liverpool comeback against Barcelona: Jurgen Klopp says I dont know how they did it Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp said he was overwhelmed and saw his players in tears after they completed the biggest Champions League semi-final comeback to beat Barcelona 4-3 on aggregate. The Reds lost the first leg 3-0 but doubles from Georginio Wijnaldum and Divock Origi at Anfield took them into a final against Ajax or Tottenham. Miner in $5bn claim over Brazil dam disaster Mining giant BHP Billiton is facing a $5bn (3.8bn) claim for damages over a dam collapse in Brazil in 2015. Law firm SPG, which is representing than 200,000 Brazilian claimants, said the company knew of the risks at the Samarco mine in Minas Gerais state. The untapped potential of Africas honey bees In the arid north of Kenya, Trinnie Cartland is preparing to scale up her organic acacia honey business. She tells me that local communities have been keen to work with her: many young people are looking for alternatives to livestock farming. Why a woman secretly taped 30 years of TV news Marion Stokes recorded US broadcasts from 1979 until her death in 2012. Her son explains why. What you need to know about the Lyft, Uber driver strike The drivers behind the ubiquitous ride-hailing apps Lyft and Uber are demanding more to keep working, including better pay, protections, transparency, benefits, and support. On Wednesday, drivers in 10 major U.S. cities will go on strike, asking passengers to also refrain from using the on-demand services that day. Major crypto exchange hack nets $40 million and could get so much worse The funds are decidedly not safe. Cryptocurrency exchange Binance announced a large scale security breach Tuesday afternoon, warning customers that unnamed hackers had managed to successfully steal 7,000 bitcoin. At current prices, this equals approximately $40 million. But wait, it gets worse. One line in the Spider-Man: Far From Home trailer completely changes the MCU For 11 years the unofficial tagline of the Marvel Cinematic Universe has been its all connected. As the first, second, and third phases of the MCU introduced the Avengers and their heroic compatriots, that sense of connection increased to create what really felt like a fully realized universe of characters who live and fight together. (Adds statement from chamber of deputies) By Walter Bianchi and Jorge Otaola BUENOS AIRES, May 9 (Reuters) - An Argentine lawmaker was wounded on Thursday and an aide was killed in a shooting about a block from the National Congress in downtown Buenos Aires, in what the country's security minister described as a "mafia-style" attack. Two attackers shot at Congressman Hector Olivares and his adviser, Miguel Yadon, in early on Thursday. Yadon died at the scene and Olivares was in "serious condition" after undergoing surgery at a Buenos Aires hospital, officials said. "There is progress in the investigation. We believe the objective was Yadon, and they didn't want to kill," Security Minister Patricia Bullrich said at a press conference. Olivares is from the northern province of La Rioja. Bullrich rolled surveillance video of the attack, which appeared to show Yadon and Olivares fall to the ground after being shot. In the video, two people emerge from a nearby parked car and stay for a few moments at the scene before driving away. Authorities later located the car, she said. Bullrich said the shooting was premeditated, but that the motive, and whether it was political or personal, was still unknown and being investigated. The Chamber of Deputies, one of the two chambers of Argentina's Congress and of which Olivares is a member, condemned the "brutal attack" in a statement on Thursday. "We are going to go to great lengths to understand what happened and find the culprits," President Mauricio Macri said in a brief televised statement after the attack. (Reporting by Walter Bianchi and Jorge Otaola; Writing by Cassandra Garrison; Editing by Jeffrey Benkoe and Susan Thomas) (Adds quotes, details) KABUL, May 9 (Reuters) - U.S. and Taliban negotiators wrapped up their sixth round of peace talks on Thursday with "some progress" made on a draft agreement for when foreign troops might withdraw from Afghanistan, a Taliban official said. The talks, in which the United States has also sought assurances the Taliban will not allow militant groups to use Afghanistan to stage attacks, began on April 30 in Qatar's capital Doha. About 17,000 foreign troops are based in Afghanistan as part of a U.S.-led NATO mission to help local forces. The United States has been pushing the Taliban to agree to a ceasefire and to talk with Afghanistan's government, which the militant group considers a U.S. puppet regime. "The 6th round of talks ... ended, with some progress made on the draft agreement prepared in the last round of talks," tweeted Muhammad Sohail Shaheen, spokesman for the Taliban's political office in Doha "In general, this round was positive and constructive. Both sides listened to each other with care and patience," he added. The negotiations included the Taliban's political chief Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar and a U.S. team led by special envoy Zalmay Khalilzad. Khalilzad, an Afghan-born veteran U.S. diplomat, had suggested that the warring sides should declare a ceasefire as part of an effort to end the nearly 18-year war. But the Taliban rejected Khalilzad's offer and have continued attacks on government buildings and offices of foreign organizations. On Wednesday, a Taliban attack on a U.S.-based aid group in Kabul killed at least nine people as members of the hardline Islamist group set off a huge explosion and battled security forces for over six hours. At least 20 civilians were wounded in the attack, which saw several Taliban gunmen storm the Counterpoint International office. (Reporting by Abdul Qadir Sediqi; Writing by Rupam Jain; Editing by Gareth Jones and Andrew Cawthorne) * Assange accused of rape in 2010 * Prosecutor dropped investigation in 2017 * Assange arrested in April after 7 years in Ecuador's UK embassy (Adds background, detail) By Simon Johnson STOCKHOLM, May 9 (Reuters) - Sweden's state prosecutor will announce next Monday whether or not she will reopen a preliminary investigation into a rape allegation against Wikileaks founder Julian Assange. Assange is currently in prison in Britain after his seven years in hiding in the Ecuadorian embassy in London ended last month when police arrested him. The United States wants to extradite him in a case relating to Wikileaks' massive release of senstive military and diplomatic documents. Sweden's legal tussle with the Australian Assange has dragged on for nearly a decade after he was accused by two Swedish women of sexual assault and rape in 2010. The statute of limitations ran out on the sexual assault allegations in 2015 and prosecutor dropped the investigation into the rape allegation in 2017 because Assange was holed up in the Ecuadorian embassy, where he had taken refuge to avoid extradition. The prosecutor said at the time the investigation could be reopened if the situation changed. After Assange's arrest in Britain last month, the lawyer representing the woman who accused Assange of rape asked for the investigation to be reopened. "At (a) press conference, the prosecutor will announce her decision, which will formally be made immediately before the press conference," the Prosecution Authority said in a statement. Assange, who denies the allegations against him, fought through the British courts to get the extradition order and the preliminary investigation dropped. His lawyers said he feared that should he go to Sweden, authorities could hand him over to the United States to face prosecution over the WikiLeaks' case. In April, Ecuador withdrew its grant of asylum and Assange was arrest by British police. Hours later, U.S. officials announced he had been charged with conspiracy to commit computer intrusion and requested his extradition. Last week a British court sentenced Assange to 50 weeks in prison for skipping bail. (Reporting by Simon Johnson; Editing by Angus MacSwan) (Adds graphic) BEIRUT, May 9 (Reuters) - The Syrian has government captured the town of Qalaat al-Madiq in northwest Syria, some of its residents and a war monitor said on Thursday, as it pushes into the biggest remaining rebel territory under a massive bombardment. Syria's army, backed by Russian air power, launched ground operations this week against the southern flank of the rebel zone consisting of Idlib and parts of adjacent provinces. The area is nominally protected by a Russian-Turkish deal agreed last year to avert a major new battle. Qalaat al-Madiq was the rebel area closest to the Russian Hmeimim airbase at Latakia, which insurgents have previously targeted with rocketfire. It was also the entrance point into rebel territory for many insurgents and civilians who were evacuated from territory captured by the army under surrender deals negotiated with the government over recent years. Local residents said Syrian government forces had captured Qalaat al-Madiq and two nearby villages - Tal Hawash and al-Karkat. The Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights war monitoring group said rebels had withdrawn there after being nearly encircled by the army. The fighting has pushed 150,000 civilians from their homes, raising concerns of a new humanitarian crisis in northwest Syria. Some 13 health facilities have been hit in the bombing, the U.S.-based Union of Medical Care and Relief Organizations which funds some hospitals in the area said on Wednesday. (Reporting By Angus McDowall; Editing by Toby Chopra) (Recasts with top EU officials) By Luiza Ilie SIBIU, Romania, May 9 (Reuters) - The European Union warned Romania on Thursday it could face firmer action over the government's legal changes that the bloc has said threaten the rule of law. The EU's executive European Commission has repeatedly said laws brought in by Romania's ruling Social Democrats - including moves to reduce statutes of limitation that would close some ongoing graft cases - have reversed decades of reforms. The bloc is already seeking sanctions against Romania's ex-communist peers Hungary and Poland for their moves to put the courts, media, academics and advocacy groups under tight state control. Asked whether further measures were needed to ensure Romania adheres to the bloc's standards, Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker told reporters: "Yes, Romania does deserve particular attention, that's something we'll be doing in the coming days and weeks." "The rule of law must apply to everybody and we will continue in this way," he said as EU leaders met in Romania, which holds the rotating EU presidency. Romania's ruling Social Democrats did not respond directly. But their leader, Liviu Dragnea, told supporters at an European Parliament election rally in the eastern city of Iasi that the country has been treated unjustly in the bloc for too long. He urged them to vote for "patriotic" Social Democrats. His party has said its legal changes are needed to protect politicians against what it sees as abuses by judges and prosecutors. MECHANISM EU leaders - who already keep Romania's justice system under special monitoring - were meeting 400km (250 miles) away in the central city of Sibiu to decide their future after Brexit. They agreed that protecting democratic standards would be one of their main objectives. "Today it was obvious that for all of us - maybe almost all of us - that the rule of law is the essence of our political activity," European Council President Donald Tusk said after the meeting. Story continues Manfred Weber, the candidate of the center-right European People's Party (EPP) to take over the helm of the European Commission later this year, said he would bring in tools to enforce those standards. "The future European Commission under my leadership will insist on the principle of the rule of law. I will present a binding rule of law mechanism for the whole European Union," he said, without going into detail. Romania's centrist President Klaus Iohannis is a strong critic of the ruling Social Democrats and wants Romanians to vote in a May 26 national referendum on whether the government should stop changing anti-graft laws by executive decrees. The referendum will be held on the same day as the EU-wide European Parliament election. "We have a few politicians who do not want (the rule of law) here but the decision is in Romanian citizens' hands," Iohannis said at the news conference with Juncker and Tusk in Sibiu. "We'll have elections ... and we'll have a clear answer from our citizens and I can hardly wait for it." (Reporting by Luiza Ilie, Editing by Gabriela Baczynska and Andrew Heavens) (Adds White House statement, paragraph 4) OTTAWA, May 9 (Reuters) - Prime Minister Justin Trudeau spoke to U.S. President Donald Trump on Thursday and discussed the detention of two Canadian citizens in China, which has triggered a major crisis between Ottawa and Beijing. Canada is pressing Washington to do more to free the two men, who were detained after Canadian police arrested a Huawei Technologies Co Ltd executive last year at the request of the United States. China has also halted imports of Canadian canola and some pork products. A statement from Trudeau's office said the two leaders talked about the two detained men as well as "Canada's ongoing efforts to secure their release." It gave no details. A White House statement said Trump expressed to Trudeau Washington's "solid commitment to standing by Canada in efforts to secure the fair treatment and release of Canadian citizens currently detained in China." The case of the two detainees is one of several irritants between Canada and the United States. Another is the tariffs that Washington slapped on Canadian exports of steel and aluminum last year, citing national security concerns. Trudeau raised the punitive measures and "reiterated the importance of their removal," the statement said. The White House statement said the two leaders discussed the U.S.-Canada-Mexico (USMCA) trade deal and U.S.-China trade talks, but it gave no details. Canadian officials have made clear there is no chance Ottawa will move to ratify the USMCA pact unless the tariffs are lifted. (Reporting by David Ljunggren; additional reporting by Eric Beech in Washington; editing by Leslie Adler and Grant McCool) (Adds comments from Shanahan) By Idrees Ali and Steve Holland WASHINGTON, May 9 (Reuters) - President Donald Trump plans to nominate Patrick Shanahan, a former Boeing Co executive, as his defense secretary, the White House said on Thursday, breaking with tradition by choosing someone who made a career at a top defense company as Pentagon chief. Shanahan had been under investigation by the Pentagon inspector general for allegedly seeking preferential treatment of Boeing while at the Defense Department but he was cleared of wrongdoing in April. He has been acting defense secretary since January, the longest in Pentagon history. "Based upon his outstanding service to the country and his demonstrated ability to lead, President Trump intends to nominate Patrick M. Shanahan to be the secretary of defense," White House spokeswoman Sarah Sanders said in a statement. Early tests for Shanahan will include handling growing tensions with Iran, renewed missile tests by North Korea and questions about how the United States should handle the political and economic crisis in Venezuela. Shanahan said in a statement that he was committed to modernizing U.S. military forces and if confirmed would aggressively implement Trump's national defense strategy which prioritizes competition with China and Russia over the counterinsurgency wars that have consumed the Pentagon for much of the past two decades. Shanahan, 56, was thrust into the role in an acting capacity in January, after Jim Mattis abruptly resigned over policy differences with Trump. On his first day as acting Pentagon chief in January, Shanahan told civilian leaders of the U.S. military to focus on "China, China, China." The Trump administration has announced its intention to withdraw most U.S. troops from Syria and diplomatic efforts are underway to bring an end to the 17-year-old war Afghanistan. But the most pressing short-term issue is likely to be Iran. Earlier this week the Pentagon said it was sending a carrier strike group and bombers to the Middle East after U.S. intelligence signaled possible preparations by Tehran to stage attacks against U.S. forces or interests. Story continues Shanahan is expected to be confirmed by senators, though he could face a tough confirmation process because of his tenure at Boeing. Lawmakers have previously expressed concern about undue influence on the Pentagon from defense companies. Ties between Boeing and the Trump administration run deep, with Trump using the company's products and sites as a backdrop for major announcements. Boeing, the world's largest planemaker, is facing one of the biggest crises in its 103-year history following the disasters on Lion Air in Indonesia last year and another on Ethiopian Airlines in March, which together killed all 346 on board. The Pentagon inspector general started the investigation of Shanahan in March for allegedly promoting Boeing in Pentagon meetings and disparaging competitors. But a report published on April 25 said none of the allegations were substantiated. Defense secretaries have traditionally come from a political or policy background, serving as a counterweight to the military brass in decision making. Mattis, a retired Marine general, was one of the few former military leaders to become secretary. Mattis implicitly criticized Trump in his resignation letter for failing to value allies who fight alongside the United States, including in places like Syria. Shanahan is unlikely to be an effective counterweight to Trump's often impulsive decision making. He toured the U.S. border with Mexico in February in what was seen as a show of support for Trump's planned border wall. BOEING TIES Shanahan has been serving in an acting capacity since the start of the year, making him the longest acting defense secretary ever. He joined Boeing in 1986 and spent more than three decades there, working on the 737 and 787 Dreamliner commercial airplanes. Shanahan was also the president and general manager of Boeing Missile Defense Systems and worked on the Apache, Chinook and Osprey military aircraft. Trump himself has been a strong proponent of military products made by U.S. defense companies. In phone calls and public appearances with world leaders, Trump has gone further than any of his predecessors to act as a salesman for the U.S. defense industry. A senior administration official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said Shanahan believed that he was answerable to Trump and it was his job to implement decisions made by the president. In February, the chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, Senator James Inhofe, said he did not think Trump would nominate Shanahan. But since then, officials say Inhofe has privately told Shanahan he would back him. "We need a confirmed leader at the Department and, after working with him closely over the last few months, I welcome his selection," Inhofe said in a statement on Thursday. During Shanahan's Senate confirmation hearing to be deputy defense secretary in 2017, the committee's then-chairman, John McCain, voiced deep concern about giving the deputy job to an executive from one of the five corporations accounting for the lions share of U.S. defense spending. "I have to have confidence that the fox is not going to be put back into the henhouse," said McCain, who died in August. (Reporting by Steve Holland and Idrees Ali; Writing by Idrees Ali and David Alexander; Editing by Eric Beech and Alistair Bell) (Adds Trump quotes, background) WASHINGTON, May 9 (Reuters) - U.S. President Donald Trump said on Thursday the United States was looking very seriously at North Korea's latest missile launch and that while North Korea wants to negotiate with the United States, he does not think it is ready to do so. "We're looking at it very seriously right now. They were smaller missiles, they were short-range missiles," Trump told reporters at the White House. "Nobody's happy about it but we're taking a good look and we'll see." North Korea fired what appeared to be two short-range missiles on Thursday, its second such test in less than a week and an apparent protest by leader Kim Jong Un after Trump rejected his calls for sanctions relief at a summit in February. "The relationship continues ... I know they want to negotiate, they're talking about negotiating. But I don't think they're ready to negotiate," Trump said. North Korea has effectively pulled back from engagement with Washington since the February summit, which fell apart without agreement on U.S. demands for the dismantling of Pyongyang's nuclear program and Kim's demands for relief from punishing sanctions. (Reporting by Steve Holland Writing by Mohammad Zargham Editing by James Dalgleish) (Adds picture) By Humeyra Pamuk and Jarrett Renshaw WASHINGTON/NEW YORK, May 9 (Reuters) - The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has proposed increasing the volume of biofuels refiners must blend into their fuel annually to 20.04 billion gallons in 2020, from 19.92 billion gallons in 2019, according to two sources familiar with the matter. The proposed mandate, now under review by other government agencies before being finalized, includes 15 billion gallons of conventional biofuels like ethanol, unchanged from 2019. It also includes 5.04 billion gallons of advanced biofuels, like those made from agricultural wastes, up from 4.92 billion in 2019, the sources said. The EPA is charged with setting biofuel blending requirements for the refining industry as part of the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS), a more than decade-old regulation that is aimed at helping farmers and reducing U.S. dependence on oil. The policy has helped farmers by creating a huge market for ethanol and other biofuels, but oil refiners say compliance can cost a fortune. EPA spokesman Michael Abboud confirmed the agency submitted a proposal for review, but did not comment on its contents. "The proposal is currently under interagency review, which places the Trump administration on track to release the Renewable Fuel Standard Renewable Volume Obligations (RVOs) on time for the third consecutive year," he said. As part of the advanced biofuel proposal, the agency set mandates for cellulosic fuel at 540 million gallons and non-cellulosic at 4.5 billion, according to the sources. It also proposed a biodiesel mandate of 2.43 billion gallons for 2021, unchanged from 2020, they said. The EPA sets biodiesel mandates a year in advance. Small refineries can be exempted from biofuel blending if they prove that complying would cause them financial strain, and the Trump administration made extensive use of such exemptions in the last two years. That has saved refiners money but angered the corn lobby, which argues the practice erodes biofuel demand. (Reporting by Humeyra Pamuk and Jarrett Renshaw; writing by Richard Valdmanis; editing by Alistair Bell and Phil Berlowitz) (Recasts headline, adds description of World Affairs Councils) By Jake Spring and Lisandra Paraguassu BRASILIA, May 8 (Reuters) - Brazil's right-wing President Jair Bolsonaro will speak at a foreign affairs event in Texas next week, organizers said on Wednesday, after he canceled a heavily criticized visit to New York City. The South American leader will address business and civic leaders on May 16 at an event in Dallas hosted by the area's branch of the World Affairs Councils of America, the branch said in a statement. Bolsonaro canceled a visit to New York this month where he was set to be honored as person of the year by the Brazilian-American Chamber of Commerce, after criticism of his past racist, homophobic and anti-environment remarks. The World Affairs Councils of America is a non-profit group that has existed in some form for roughly 100 years with more than 90 affiliates around the United States. They are non-partisan and do not take positions on policy, according to the organization's website. "Through events like this, we offer our members the opportunity to hear directly from individuals who hold positions of significance in the world," Jim Falk, chief executive of the organization's Dallas/Fort Worth council. "We look forward to hearing from the president of the largest country in the Southern Hemisphere and the fifth-largest country in the world," he said in a statement. Bolsonaro's office did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Earlier, Bolsonaro said at an event in the Presidential Palace in Brasilia that he was finalizing plans to go to Texas, tentatively for May 16 and 17. On Monday, Bolsonaro's official spokesman Otavio Rego Barros said the president had been invited by Dallas Mayor Mike Rawlings, which his office denied. "Mayor Mike Rawlings did not invite Brazil's President Jair Bolsonaro to Dallas," a spokesman for Rawlings said by email. Story continues "Mayor Rawlings will welcome him to the city, as is customary for the mayor to do for democratically elected presidents of major countries," he added. That contrasts with New York Mayor Bill de Blasio who had openly opposed Bolsonaro's visit to the city, where the Brazilian-American Chamber of Commerce was to honor him as Person of the Year. De Blasio on Twitter praised the cancellation, saying the world must stand up to Bolsonaro's assault on gay rights and the environment. On Wednesday, Bolsonaro hit back, saying that de Blasio had "incited" the population against him, among the mayor's other efforts to "sabotage" his visit. The Brazilian leader visited the White House in March where he played up his admiration of President Donald Trump and their shared disdain for political correctness and "fake news," as they often call unfavorable press coverage. (Reporting by Jake Spring and Lisandra Paraguassu Editing by Leslie Adler and Darren Schuettler) Online comedy group Propesa may have finally found a solution to bet defaulter Senator Murkomen after a meeting with DP Ruto. It had been a long time coming but the Kalenjin funnymen finally met their longtime creative muse at his Karen office in Nairobi on Tuesday. Dreams are valid, Aye? Propesa was part of a larger group of online content creators who were hosted by the DP to discuss how they can cooperate with the government on matters content. Others included Jaymo Ule Msee, Desagu, Seth Gor, Mammito Eunice, Terence Creative Kamami and Auntie Jemimah. Ruto noted that content creation is creating jobs for the youth and has greatly enriched local media programming. We are building an enabling environment for content creators to do their thing, especially in the digital space, which is key to creating jobs; enriching local media programming; promoting talent and enhancing the creative economy. The creatives all had a chance to entertain the DP, with Propesa using the opportunity to snitch on Elgeyo Marakwet Senator Kipchumba Murkomen for shortchanging them in a bet for the friendly match between Everton and Gor Mahia. Read: I was Coerced. Senator Murkomen Renounces Bet with Propesa After Gor Mahia Loss Watch During the meeting with Ruto, Propesas lead comedian Kimutai Ruto pulled out his trademark Mulika Mwizi phone and called Murkomen to warn him that the debt matter is now in DPs hands. The DP, who was already dressed in the famous brown leather chaget presented to him by Propesa, could not believe it as he asked if Murkomen had indeed defaulted on a bet. The room was filled with laughter, with the DP promising to follow up the matter, or better yet, settle Murkomens debt. Watch the clips below. (Corrects day of the week to Thursday, not Wednesday, in paragraph six) LONDON, May 9 (Reuters) - Britain's broadcasting watchdog has launched a formal investigation into whether a confession made by a British man and aired on China's state broadcaster broke UK broadcasting rules when shown there. The investigation relates to a complaint made by Briton Peter Humphrey and his American wife, Yu Yingzeng, who were both sentenced in China in 2014 for illegally obtaining private records of Chinese citizens and selling the information to clients including drugmaker GlaxoSmithKline. Humphrey says China Central Television (CCTV), which broadcast the footage via its international subsidiary China Global Television Network (CGTN), may have breached British fairness rules by distributing what he said was a forced confession which prejudiced a subsequent trial against him. "We have decided to investigate a fairness and privacy complaint about news programs broadcast on CCTV News," a spokesperson for the broadcasting watchdog Ofcom said. "If we find our rules have been broken, we will take the appropriate action," the person said, declining to comment further. Speaking in Beijing on Thursday, Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Geng Shuang referred specific questions to state television, but spoke of the need for international cooperation and support for the media. "We believe that news organizations are the bridge and link to promote mutual understanding and friendly cooperation among people of all countries," he told reporters. "We hope that Britain can provide support and convenience for foreign media to conduct normal news reporting work in Britain." An official at the foreign affairs office of China's state television, which is in charge of taking questions from foreign reporters, declined immediate comment when contacted by telephone. The British regulator has the power to fine a broadcaster for breaching rules, and in the most severe infringements can revoke a license. Story continues Humphrey, a private investigator and former journalist who worked for Reuters in the 1980s and 1990s, says that CCTV collaborated with police to extract, record and broadcast a confession he was forced to make long before his actual trial. Showing the footage on TV prejudiced Chinese and world public opinion against him and his wife, he argued in a complaint made to Ofcom last year. The couple were deported from China in June 2015 after their jail terms were reduced. The case was linked to an investigation of GSK in China that led to a $489 million fine against it for paying bribes to doctors to use its drugs. (Reporting by Elisabeth O'Leary; Additional reporting by Ben Blanchard and Gao Liangping in BEIJING; Editing by Hugh Lawson, Robert Birsel) (Updates with comments from ex-intelligence head) By Mayela Armas and Shaylim Valderrama CARACAS, May 9 (Reuters) - Two Venezuelan lawmakers sought refuge at foreign embassies in Caracas on Thursday, as the government of President Nicolas Maduro cracked down on allies of opposition leader Juan Guaido who supported his attempted uprising last week. The ex-head of the state intelligence service, Manuel Cristopher, the top Maduro government official to defect during the uprising, also spoke out for the first time on Thursday, urging Venezuelans to "build a new state" and combat corruption. The moves came the day after authorities arrested Edgar Zambrano, the opposition-run National Assembly's vice president. Richard Blanco of the Brave Peoples' Alliance party entered Argentina's embassy on Thursday, according to an Argentine foreign ministry source and a Reuters witness, while Americo De Grazia of the Radical Cause party sought refuge at Italy's embassy, according to three sources close to him. Blanco, Zambrano and De Grazia were among 10 lawmakers stripped of congressional immunity by the Supreme Court this week, which said the legislators should be investigated for crimes including conspiracy, treason and rebellion. Marianella Magallanes, another lawmaker, took refuge in the Italian embassy on Wednesday. The opposition do not recognize the Supreme Court's decisions since they say Maduro has stocked it with his own supporters. The U.S. government has threatened to impose sanctions on all of the court's members. Venezuela's information ministry, Argentina's embassy in Caracas and Italy's embassy in Caracas did not respond to requests for comment. "He (Blanco) is there as a guest; we can confirm that," an Argentine foreign ministry official said, on condition of anonymity. Guaido invoked the constitution to assume an interim presidency in January, arguing Maduro's 2018 reelection was illegitimate. About 50 countries, including the United States and much of Latin America, have recognized Guaido as the country's legitimate leader. Story continues Maduro's government has so far avoided arresting Guaido, which would likely provoke a strong international backlash. But the recent measures suggest the ruling Socialist Party is seeking to isolate him by pursuing key political allies. "We take it as a given that the regime is going to keep escalating its repression," Guaido said at a news conference, referring to Zambrano's arrest. He also called for Venezuelans to take to the streets on Saturday for fresh protests against Maduro. Cristopher, the ex-intelligence chief, was replaced by Maduro on April 30 and his whereabouts remain unknown. The U.S. government lifted sanctions on Cristopher this week, in a bid to encourage other top officials to withdraw support for Maduro. "Enough with blaming the world for our country's disgraces, and to keep demanding more sacrifices from our people while some leaders make fortunes," Cristopher said in a video posted on Twitter by Venezuelan TV outlet NTN24. TOWED AWAY AND ARRESTED Zambrano was arrested on Wednesday by agents from the SEBIN intelligence service, who used a tow truck to drag away his vehicle with him inside. He tweeted that he was being taken to the SEBIN headquarters in Caracas. Authorities have not confirmed where he was being detained. Soley Zambrano, his daughter, said she last heard from her father around 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday. "Minutes before it happened, he got in touch with me and said, 'My daughter, you know who your father is: a democrat who will not give in to anything," she told reporters outside the SEBIN headquarters on Thursday afternoon. His arrest drew swift condemnation from the United States, which argues Maduro is a dictator who has undermined the rule of law. "We will continue to use the full weight of the U.S. government to hold accountable those who subvert democracy and the Venezuelan constitutional order, and threaten the safety of the duly-elected National Assembly of Venezuela," a senior White House official said on Thursday, on condition of anonymity. The decision to strip legislators of their immunity and to arrest Zambrano was condemned as 'unconstitutional' in a statement on Thursday by the regional Lima Group bloc. Other Guaido allies have already been jailed or fled to the embassies of sympathetic nations. Guaido's chief of staff, Roberto Marrero, was arrested in March and remains in jail. Last week, Leopoldo Lopez - Guaido's political mentor - moved into Spain's diplomatic residence after escaping house arrest to appear alongside Guaido during his call for the military to rise up. The United States has slapped sanctions on state oil company PDVSA and several top figures in Maduro's government in a bid to pressure Maduro to step aside so Guaido can take office and call new elections. But Maduro retains control of the military and state functions. He has branded Guaido a U.S.-backed puppet seeking to oust him in a coup. (Reporting by Mayela Armas and Cassandra Garrison, Additional reporting by Johnny Carvajal and Shaylim Valderrama in Caracas and Roberta Rampton in WashingtonWriting by Luc Cohen Editing by Daniel Flynn, Rosalba O'Brien and Cynthia Osterman) Washington (AFP) - Two House Democrats on Thursday joined activists at the US Capitol who presented Congress with signatures of 10 million people calling on lawmakers to begin impeachment proceedings against President Donald Trump. "We are holding in our hands 10 million reasons for being here today," progressive congressman Al Green said, as he and first-term congresswoman Rashida Tlaib held up a flash drive. Dozens of cardboard boxes featuring the signatures, gathered on petitions from groups such as MoveOn and the annual Women's March, were delivered to Tlaib, who has introduced legislation that would direct the House Judiciary Committee to begin proceedings to investigate whether Trump has committed impeachable offenses. "In the face of this time, this remarkably dark time in our country, this to me is a moment of light," she said. Trump has proclaimed he was fully exonerated by special counsel Robert Mueller's recently released report on Russian election interference. But some Democrats argue that the document lays out multiple occasions in which the president may have obstructed justice, including Senator Elizabeth Warren, a 2020 presidential candidate who has called for impeachment proceedings. Other senior Democrats including House Speaker Nancy Pelosi have cautioned against such a move, stressing it could deeply divide the nation of about 325 million people. They warn it could backfire politically in the run up to the 2020 election, especially with the Republican-controlled Senate likely to acquit the president in the event of impeachment by the House of Representatives. But Green framed the action as a constitutional necessity. "I say moral imperative always trumps political expediency," he said. "You can't say you have a constitutional crisis and then do nothing." The remark appeared to be a direct challenge to Pelosi herself, who said Thursday that Trump's refusal to comply with congressional inquiries into his actions has brought the country to the brink. "Trump and his administration's decision to ignore the oath of office has triggered a constitutional crisis," Pelosi said, although she herself has stopped short of calling for Trump's ouster. (Adds Islamic State claim) BAGHDAD, May 9 (Reuters) - A blast rocked Baghdad's northeastern Sadr City district on Thursday but accounts differed on whether it caused any casualties. Islamic State claimed responsibility. Police Colonel Jamal Hameed told Reuters a parcel had been found on the side of the road near a market and detonated in a controlled explosion, hurting no one. He said an earlier statement by the joint military-police Baghdad Operations Command mentioning a suicide bomb and several deaths had been released in error. That statement had said a bomber detonated an explosive belt surrounded by security forces. Local media reported that at least eight people were killed. Reuters was unable to independently verify whether there were any casualties. Islamic State released its own statement, saying a suicide bomber had detonated an explosive vest in Sadr City, killing eight people and wounding more than 10. Iraq declared victory over the militant group in 2017, three years after it took over vast swathes of the country. Its fighters have since adapted their tactics to focus on insurgent-style attacks. The blast hit days after the start of the holy month of Ramadan, when Muslims fast from dawn to sunset and tend to congregate in public places after breaking their fast. (Reporting by Ahmed Aboulenein and Ahmed Rasheed; additional reporting by Hesham Hajali in Cairo; writing by Ahmed Aboulenein; editing by Andrew Heavens and James Dalgleish) * Launches come days after North Korea fired missile, rockets * South calls launches worrisome and unhelpful * U.S. says seized North Korean ship (Adds Trump; seizure of North Korean ship) By Josh Smith and David Brunnstrom SEOUL/WASHINGTON, May 9 (Reuters) - North Korea fired what appeared to be two short-range missiles on Thursday in its second such test in less than a week, and the United States announced it had seized a North Korean cargo ship as tensions again mounted between the two countries. U.S. President Donald Trump said "nobody is happy" at the missile launches, which South Korea said were likely a protest by Pyongyang against Trump refusing to ease economic sanctions on the North. The United States has given no sign of willingness to budge on sanctions and on Thursday the Justice Department announced the seizure of a North Korean cargo vessel it said was involved in the illicit shipping of coal. North Korea has effectively pulled back from engagement with Washington since a summit between leader Kim Jong Un and Trump in February fell apart without agreement on U.S. demands for the dismantling of Pyongyang's nuclear program and Kim's demands for relief from punishing sanctions. "The relationship continues ... I know they want to negotiate, they're talking about negotiating. But I don't think they're ready to negotiate," Trump told reporters at the White House on Thursday. Less than a week ago, Kim oversaw the test-firing of multiple rockets and a missile and the latest tests coincided with a visit to the South Korean capital by U.S. special envoy for North Korea, Stephen Biegun. The two missiles fired on Thursday went east from the northwestern area of Kusong, South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff said. They covered distances of 420 km (260 miles) and 270 km (168 miles) and reached an altitude of about 50 km (30 miles) before falling into the sea, they said. Pentagon spokesman Lieutenant Colonel Dave Eastburn said: "We're aware of the reports and monitoring." Story continues "North Korea seemed to be discontented it could not reach a deal in Hanoi," South Korea's President Moon Jae-in told South Korean broadcaster KBS, referring to the summit in Hanoi with Trump. South Korea's Moon said that even if the missiles fired on Thursday were short range, they could still violate U.N. resolutions barring North Korea from developing its ballistic missile force. Even so, Moon said he saw the tests as a sign that North Korea wanted to negotiate, and said he planned to push for a fourth inter-Korean summit with Kim. U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, who earlier cut short a European trip to return to Washington for meetings on Iran, was also due to have discussions on North Korea after learning of the launches, a senior U.S. State Department official said. Pompeo was due to meet on Thursday with Japan's Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga, who is expected to raise Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's hopes to set up a summit with Kim. WEEKEND TESTS Analysts said it was too soon to say exactly what kind of missiles were involved in the latest launches, but the range would probably exceed that of most of the rockets North Korea fired on Saturday from its east coast into the ocean. "North Korea has returned to its classic escalation tactics from before," said Yang Uk, a senior research fellow at the Korea Defence and Security Forum. "I believe they will keep escalating by using what appear to be short-range missiles, something that will not cause the U.S. to react right away." Harry Kazianis, of Washington's Center for the National Interest think tank, said the new launches could only worsen tensions. "While this recent launch of short-range missiles does not violate Pyongyangs promise to halt longer-range tests, North Korea has now made it clear it will not halt developing other parts of its military capabilities that threaten the region," he said. "Kims goal, beyond ensuring his weapons programs are becoming more powerful, is quite clear: to show America and its allies that if they arent willing to compromise on the terms of denuclearisation." On Saturday, North Korea launched multiple rockets and at least one short-range ballistic missile. That was the North's first test of a ballistic missile since launching an intercontinental ballistic missile in November 2017 and sharply raising tension at a time of stalemate in its talks with the United States. This week, North Korea lashed out at the United States and South Korea, saying the weekend launches were "regular and self-defensive" and rejecting the notion that they were provocative. It criticized Seoul and Washington for carrying out military drills. Trump and his administration played down the weekend tests, and in a Twitter message on Saturday, the U.S. president said he was still confident he could reach a deal with Kim. Trump has previously held up a freeze in missile testing since 2017 as evidence of progress with North Korea, while he and Pompeo have brushed aside Kim's demand for Washington to show more flexibility in nuclear talks by the year-end. In 2017, after North Korea tested its most powerful intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) - which it said was capable of delivering a warhead to anywhere in the United States - Kim declared his nuclear force complete. He then extended an olive branch to Seoul and Washington, holding two summits with Trump and three with the South Korean president. A North Korean media report on Wednesday had hinted at the more tests, saying: "The south Korean military were astonished by the recent strike drill. It might fall into a swoon to see a strike drill involving more powerful cutting-edge weapons." (Reporting by Josh Smith and Hyonhee Shin; Additional reporting by Joyce Lee in Seoul, Elaine Lies in Tokyo and David Brunnstrom, Idrees Ali and Makini Brice in Washington Editing by Nick Macfie and Alistair Bell) * Priests and nuns mandated to report all abuse to superiors * Dioceses must set up simple procedures for reporting abuse * Bishops must recuse themselves in cases of conflict of interest * Church credibility tarnished globally by sex abuses, cover-ups (Expands on content of decree, adds detail, quotes, background) By Philip Pullella VATICAN CITY, May 9 (Reuters) - Pope Francis issued a landmark decree on Thursday making bishops directly accountable for sexual abuse or covering it up, requiring clerics to report any cases to Church superiors and allowing anyone to complain directly to the Vatican if needed. Tackling sexual abuses that have battered the Catholic Church's reputation has been a major challenge for Francis since his 2013 election, with victims demanding a crackdown on bishops at the diocese level accused of concealing or mismanaging cases. The papal change in Church law, covering abuse of children and adults alike, also obliges every diocese worldwide to set up simple, accessible reporting systems and encourages local churches to involve lay experts in investigations. Francis's edict obliges the world's one million priests and nuns to report all suspicion of sexual abuse by clerics of any level. Before, it was just a matter of individual conscience as to whether to report cases. It calls for whistleblower protection, saying bishops with conflicts of interest should recuse themselves from investigations and that bishops can also be held accountable for abuse of power in sexual relations with adults. Former U.S. Cardinal Theodore McCarrick was expelled from the Roman Catholic priesthood last February after he was found guilty of sexual crimes against minors and adults, including forcing seminarians to sleep with him. "We have said for years that priests should follow certain strict rules, so why should bishops and other members of the Church hierarchy be exempt?" said Cardinal Marc Ouellet, head of the Vatican's Congregation for Bishops. Story continues The decree also allows victims or their representatives to report alleged abuses by bishops directly to the Vatican or a Vatican ambassador, bypassing diocesan procedures that have been discredited by multiple instances of cover-ups. But the decree does not alter Vatican policy that clerics should follow local law as to whether they are mandated to report alleged sexual abuse to civil authorities. REPORTING LAWS VARY Victim's groups and their advocates have called for the Vatican to make reporting of suspected abuse to police mandatory but the Holy See says Church law cannot override local civil law because the latter varies around the world. The papal edict says the "norms apply without prejudice to the rights and obligations established in each place by state laws, particularly those concerning any reporting obligations to the competent civil authorities." Maltese Archbishop Charles Scicluna, the Vatican's top sexual crimes investigator, told reporters that the purpose of that section was to mandate priests and nuns to report abuse within the Church even in countries - including several in Latin America - where they are not obliged by civil law to do so. The 19-article decree, called "Vos Estis Lux Mundi" (You Are the Light of the World), raises to 18 from 16 the age of adulthood in cases of sexual abuse. It also covers possession of child pornography. The edict came three months after Francis summoned the heads of all national bishops conferences to Rome in February for a crisis summit on sexual abuse. A spate of abuse scandals has battered Church credibility around the world and forced some dioceses to declare bankruptcy because of billions of dollars paid in settlements with victims. The decree, whose preparation was reported first by Reuters in April, sets time limits for local investigations and the Vatican's response to them and allows for retroactive reporting. The decree further says local clerics cannot order those who report abuse to remain silent and that senior bishops should make provisions to prevent documents from being destroyed by subordinates if needed. Many local Catholic Churches have been hit by sex abuse scandals since they erupted on a large scale in Boston in 2002 with revelations that Church leaders there had moved sexual abusers from parish to parish instead of defrocking them. (Reporting by Philip Pullella Editing by Mark Heinrich) Washington (AFP) - Fifty coal-fired power plants have shut in the United States since President Donald Trump came to office two years ago, an environmental organization said Thursday. The Sierra Club counted 50 closures, along with 51 announcements of closure, since Trump was sworn into office in January 2017. The numbers are distinct because it sometimes takes years between an announcement and the actual shuttering. This week, the operators of two coal plants, one in Florida and the other in Utah, announced they would shut their doors within the next few years. In total, 289 have closed since 2010, comprising 40 percent of the US's coal power capacity, while an additional 241 plants remain open. A coal power plant that began running in Alaska a few weeks ago is the only new installation to open since Trump took office, the non-profit said. "We're seeing a rush to the exit door from the coal industry and utilities, because the economics don't work out," the Sierra Club's Jonathan Levenshus told AFP. Despite the president's pro-coal rhetoric, "what the Trump administration is offering is false promises," he added. Since the fracking boom began around a decade ago, coal has become more expensive to exploit than natural gas, which is experiencing strong growth in the United States and increasingly replacing coal. By this summer, coal is on course to provide only 25 percent of the US energy mix from its share of 35 percent in 2015. Meanwhile, natural gas will account for 40 percent of the power supply, according to an analysis published Thursday by the Energy Information Administration (EIA). US coal production has fallen by a third since its peak in 2008, according to official energy statistics, and more than half of all mines have closed since that time. 9703 Dale Crest Drive. | Photos: Zumper Curious just how far your dollar goes in Preston Hollow? According to Walk Score, this Dallas neighborhood is moderately walkable, is fairly bikeable and has good transit options. Data from rental site Zumper shows that the median rent for a one bedroom in Preston Hollow is currently hovering around $850. So, what might you expect to find if you don't want to spend more than $700 / month on rent? Read on for a roundup of the latest rental listings, via Zumper. (Note: prices and availability are subject to change.) Hoodline offers data-driven analysis of local happenings and trends across cities. Links included in this article may earn Hoodline a commission on clicks and transactions. 9703 Dale Crest Drive First up, there's this one-bedroom, one-bathroom over at 9703 Dale Crest Drive. It's listed for $663/month for its 620 square feet of space. The building features on-site laundry, outdoor space and on-site management. Luckily for pet owners, both dogs and cats are welcome. Expect a broker's fee equal to one month's rent. (See the complete listing here.) 9680 Timberline Drive Here's a 480-square-foot studio at 9680 Timberline Drive that's going for $630/month. In the unit, you'll get a walk-in closet, a balcony and carpet. Amenities offered in the building include on-site laundry, business center, outdoor space and a swimming pool. Pet owners, inquire elsewhere: this spot doesn't allow cats or dogs. (Check out the complete listing here.) 11661 Dennis Road Next, check out this 456-square-foot studio that's located at 11661 Dennis Road. It's listed for $650/month. In the unit, you'll get a dishwasher, a walk-in closet, a balcony and air conditioning. The building has on-site laundry, outdoor space and a swimming pool. If you've got a pet, you'll be happy to learn that cats and dogs are welcome. Future tenants needn't worry about a leasing fee. (Check out the complete listing here.) Story continues 3333 Webb Chapel Ext Finally, located at 3333 Webb Chapel Ext, here's a 480-square-foot studio that's listed for $617/month. In the unit, you can expect a walk-in closet and a fireplace. Building amenities include on-site laundry, swimming pool and outdoor space. Pets are not allowed. (See the complete listing here.) This story was created automatically using local real estate data, then reviewed by an editor. Click here for more about what we're doing. Got thoughts? Go here to share your feedback. The Democratic partys current war on Attorney General William Barr is one of the most misguided, misplaced bursts of outrage that Ive seen during the first term of the Trump administration. Barr protected the Mueller investigation, he went above and beyond legal requirements to release Muellers report to the public, and he has offered to congressional leaders far more details about the investigation than are publicly available. Yet now hes subject to congressional contempt proceedings? This is nonsense. Barr has been far, far more transparent than governing law requires. The special-counsel regulations are crystal clear: The special counsel is required to deliver to the attorney general a confidential report explaining [his] prosecution or declination decisions. The attorney general is under no obligation to make that report public. Instead, the regulations state that he may determine that public release of these reports would be in the public interest and if so can release them subject to applicable legal restrictions. This is exactly what Barr did: He released the report with minimal material redactions. The American public can read all about Russian interference in American elections, Trumps unscrupulous campaign team, and Trumps own deceptions right here. An annotated version can be read here. A bound volume of the report can even be bought here. So why are Democrats now claiming that were in the grips of a constitutional crisis? Why are some openly suggesting using the sergeant at arms to arrest Barr and throw him in jail? The answer is absurd: because Barr has not complied with a congressional subpoena that demands from him documents he cannot legally disclose. Yes, thats right. Congress is threatening Barr with contempt in part because Barr wont break the law. The House Judiciary Committee has subpoenaed the entire, unredacted Mueller report and the evidence that underpins it. Yet both the unredacted report and the supporting evidence contain classified information, information relevant to multiple additional ongoing investigations, and grand-jury information. While the release of classified information and information relating to other investigations can be negotiated, rule 6(e) of the Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure spells out the mandate for grand-jury secrecy and does not include an exception for congressional committees. Story continues Barr has responded by permitting senior members of the Judiciary Committee (along with designated staff) to view a version of the report that redacts only the grand-jury information a redaction that reportedly totals two full and seven partial lines from the obstruction portion of the report. To date, no Democrat has opted to view this less-redacted version. Instead, Nadlers committee has proceeded directly to contempt proceedings. Hours before the Committees contempt vote, the Trump administration asserted executive privilege over the entire report and its supporting evidence. This assertion called a protective assertion is intended to act as a temporary hold on legal proceedings while lawyers pore through the hundreds of thousands of requested pages to determine which documents are actually privileged. The legal basis for such an assertion comes from a 1982 Reagan-era memorandum and a 1996 Clinton-era opinion written by thenattorney general Janet Reno. This isnt a constitutional crisis. Its standard legal sparring that is amply grounded in past precedent and past practice. It would be unlawful for the attorney general to provide Congress with protected grand-jury information. It would be similarly unlawful for the attorney general to provide information subject to validly asserted claims of executive privilege. It would be reckless and irresponsible for Congress to continue to demand wide dissemination of at least some of the classified information in the report and the supporting evidence and at least some of the information and supporting evidence that bears directly on ongoing investigations. So, if were witnessing standard negotiations between Congress and the Department of Justice and standard, competing legal assertions, then why the overheated rhetoric? Why the claims that the crisis is here. Aside from the fact that we live in an overheated age, we cannot separate the current proceedings from the lingering fury generated by Barrs initial rollout of the Mueller report. Democrats are livid that he created his own summary of the report rather than reproducing some version of Muellers summaries, and theyre livid that he and Rod Rosenstein issued their own legal opinion that Trump did not obstruct justice. This anger was of course compounded when we discovered that Mueller directly complained to Barr that Barrs summary did not fully capture the context, nature, and substance of his report. As I said when Muellers letter leaked, I understand his complaint, but it was entirely mooted when Barr released the report. Barr had the legal authority to exercise his own discretion in deciding how to describe the report and whether to release the report. The bottom line is that Barr chose transparency. And while I understand why Democrats would be angry that Barr made his own obstruction-of-justice finding, lets not forget that Barrs determination is meaningless to Congress. It can choose to impeach the president regardless of the attorney generals legal opinion. Indeed, it can impeach Trump even if hes entirely innocent of any illegal activity. Impeachment is a political remedy for abuse of power, not a legal finding of criminal guilt. Moreover, it is not the attorney generals job to make impeachment politically easier for Democrats. If he believed in good faith that Trump did not obstruct justice, then he was amply justified in saying so. We now know that hundreds of former federal prosecutors disagree and believe Trump would have been charged if he wasnt president. Their disagreement opens room for an important and necessary political debate. In fact, if Trump loses in 2020, a different attorney general could reach a different conclusion and direct his prosecution once he leaves office. As of this moment, no means of holding the president accountable have been foreclosed. The Democrats can still impeach. If Trump loses, a U.S. attorney can still indict. The fact of the matter is that all too many Democrats hoped that Mueller (and, by extension, the Trump DOJ) would make their job easy. They believed that Mueller would deliver the kind of evidence that would operate like a silver bullet a magic weapon that would slay the beast. When two things happened at once Mueller completed his investigation without interference from the DOJ, and he concluded that the Trump campaign did not actively conspire with the Russian government their hopes were dashed, and we were left with a messy, contentious political fight. So it goes. The attorney general has not precipitated a constitutional crisis. Instead, he has played a key role in avoiding a true emergency. Far from acting as Trumps bodyguard, the Department of Justice appointed a special counsel, defended him from presidential interference, and published his work for all to see. And now it is negotiating with Congress to disclose even more of his work. The key figures in the Trump DOJ Jeff Sessions, Matthew Whitaker, Rosenstein, Mueller, and, yes, Barr have performed an invaluable public service. They withstood immense pressure from the president and fulfilled their statutory and regulatory mandates. They went above and beyond the requirements of the law in the name of transparency and the public interest. They did more than anyone else to expose Russian perfidy, campaign corruption, and presidential dishonesty. They deserve our applause, not congressional contempt. More from National Review When Autherine Lucy Foster first attended the University of Alabama, she was met with riots. Now, she's being honored as a trailblazer. Lucy Foster, the first black student to attend the university, or any white school in the state, received an honorary doctorate Friday for "her valiant role in desegregating the University," the school said in a statement. Lucy Foster, 89, first applied to the University of Alabama in 1952 after she had finished her English degree at Miles College, the university said. Her acceptance to the university was rescinded, though, because she was black. After fighting that decision in court, Lucy Foster was later allowed to attend the school, she and enrolled in 1956. But in just three days, Lucy Foster received death threats, faced riots and was ultimately removed from the university, the school said. Decades later, her expulsion was annulled, and Lucy Foster finished her masters degree in education in 1991. She graduated with her daughter, Grazia, the school said. The university described Lucy Foster as "the architect of desegregating Alabamas education systems." On Friday, news outlets reported she received a standing ovation at this year's commencement ceremony. Before receiving the honor, she noted the difference in seeing smiling faces "instead of frowning and displeased at my being here." "I wasn't crying, but tears was just rolling down my eyes because it's just so different and so unique for me to be able to come back to such a university as this," Lucy Foster told WBRC-TV in Tuscaloosa. Contributing: The Associated Press. Follow USA TODAY's Ryan Miller on Twitter @RyanW_Miller This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: 1st black to attend University of Alabama got threats in 1956. Now, she's getting an honorary degree The Indian Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), headed by Defence minister Nirmala Sitharaman, recently approved the Rs 3,600 crore ($US 5 million) proposal to buy 10 Kamov-31 AEW Helicopters from Russia for the Indian Navy. The Indian Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), headed by Defence minister Nirmala Sitharaman, recently approved the Rs 3,600 crore ($US 5 million) proposal to buy 10 Kamov-31 AEW Helicopters from Russia for the Indian Navy. Russian Navy Kamov Ka-31 helicopter (Picture Source: Dmitriy Pichugin) The Kamov Ka-31 (NATO reporting name 'Helix') is a military helicopter developed for the Soviet Navy and currently in service in Russia, China and India in the naval airborne early warning and control role. These helicopters are critical for the Indian Navy as they will help in increasing the radar coverage and will act as an extra set of eyes. The radars onboard the ships have a limited horizon, which are not able to track low-flying targets, in particular, anti-ship missiles. In 1999, the Indian Navy had ordered the Ka-31 AEW helicopters and they were deployed on board the INS Viraat aircraft carrier and other ships. There have been follow-on orders and so far there are around 14 Ka-31 helicopters in service of the Indian Navy. Two of these rotorcraft will join INS Vikrant, Indias first indigenous aircraft carrier that is currently under construction. The other eight will be operated aboard the Indian Navys four Admiral Grigorovich class (Project 11356 design) frigates that were ordered in 2018. Alexandre Lacazette is backing Arsenal to reclaim a Champions League position by winning the Europa League. The Gunners earned their place in the Europa League final in Baku by thrashing Valencia 7-3 on aggregate. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyangs hat-trick saw them through in a 4-2 second-leg victory which threatened to go awry at times, with strike partner Lacazette bagging the other. And the Frenchman has heaped praise upon the Gabon forward, insisting Arsenal can go all the way under the guile of Unai Emery and make up for a fifth or sixth-placed domestic finish. "We have played badly in Premier League during the last month and now we have to use this opportunity, the former Lyon man told BT Sport. We want to play in the Champions League next season and we want the trophy. "We reacted well to going behind and we knew we had to score a minimum of one goal tonight. Auba was unbelievable tonight with an incredible hat-trick, so thanks to him. AS IT HAPPENED: Aubameyang hat-trick helps Arsenal down Valencia in Spain READ MORE: Aubameyang hat-trick helps Arsenal seal Europa League final berth Former Borussia Dortmund man Aubameyang put Arsenal level on the night after Kevin Gameiro gave the hosts an early lead. Lacazette put Arsenal ahead, before compatriot Gameiro struck again to level the second-leg score. Aubameyang then blew Valencia away with two more goals to confirm Europa League master Unai Emery will yet again be in the final. And the hat-trick hero told BT Sport Arsenal have evolved from last season, where they fell short at the same stage to Atletico Madrid. He said: "We have learned from last season and this year we didn't make the same mistakes. Now we are through to the final." "We have talked a lot about our relationship (with Lacazette) and it is a pleasure to play with him, above all when you win games like this. It is a final so it doesn't matter which team we play, we have to give everything and win." Featured from our writers: Algiers (AFP) - An Algerian state television presenter has been fired after slamming the media's role in supporting the regime of ex-leader Abdelaziz Bouteflika and pushing for greater freedoms, colleagues said Thursday. Abderrezak Siah, who hosted the evening news on the A3 channel, was dismissed by the outlet's management on Saturday, Canal Algeria reporter Abdelmadjid Benkaci told AFP. Demonstrators in the north African country are pressing for sweeping reforms after Bouteflika resigned last month in the face of huge protests. At an event on April 29, Siah lambasted broadcasters for their slavish backing of the veteran's 20-year rule and called for a freer media. "Public television was not the mouthpiece for the state but the mouthpiece for corruption," he said. "Our main mission is to provide a public service, and I call on all television journalists and young people from the protest movement to peacefully support our fight." After protests erupted across Algeria in February journalists from state media denounced "pressure" from their bosses to refrain from reporting on the demonstrations. Consumer Reports has no financial relationship with advertisers on this site. Consumer Reports has no financial relationship with advertisers on this site. Nineteen privacy advocacy organizations have filed a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission, urging the agency to investigate whether Amazon has violated the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act [COPPA] with the kids edition of its Echo Dot smart speaker. The organizations, which include the Campaign for a Commercial-Free Childhood [CFCC], the Center for Digital Democracy [CDD], Public Citizen, and U.S. PIRG, say the colorful smart speaker can record and collect "vast amounts of sensitive, personal information from children under 13" without the level of parental consent required by law. COPPA allows a company to verify parental consent by having an adult enter a credit card number and a CCV security code. The complaint says that Amazon's method for acquiring consent falls outside the rules, because it allows a user to enter numbers from gift cards instead. That could make it more likely for a child to enter personal data without a parent's permission, the complaint says. Working with researchers at Georgetown University, the groups also discovered that once a child told the Echo Dot Kids Edition to remember certain personal details, parents were unable to delete the information using the device's Amazon Alexa mobile app. Consumer Reports was able to duplicate this problem using our own Amazon Echo Dot Kids Edition. However, we found that if we entered the same information into a regular Echo Dot speaker, we could delete it using the app (details below). "If Amazon wants to store sensitive information, such as voice recordings of kids and transcripts of those recordings, they need to ensure that their disclosures to parents are sufficient and that they have obtained verifiable parental consent under COPPA," says Katie McInnis, policy counsel with Consumer Reports. "In this case, it seems that Amazon has failed to provide such notice and properly verify parental consent and could be subject to FTC enforcement." Story continues FreeTime on Alexa and Echo Dot Kids Edition are compliant with the Childrens Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA)," an Amazon spokesperson wrote to Consumer Reports by e-mail, while directing customers to a page outlining the company's privacy practices. The complaint also alleges that Amazon fails to give notice and obtain consent for information collected by third parties. Of the 2,077 appsknown as "skills" in Amazon parlanceavailable for the Echo Dot Kids Edition, 1,758 (or 86.4 percent) do not provide any privacy policy, the complaint says. And the privacy policies of those that do were often "confusing or contained irrelevant information," according to a press release that accompanied the complaint. "If you had a most incredibly motivated parent, who was determined to get to the bottom of what was being collected before consenting, I'm not sure that they could get to the bottom of what's being done with the data," says Josh Golin, executive director of CCFC. The organizations say they used a feature called Remember This that allows a child to give the device personal information, anything from their dog's name to their phone number, the code for the garage door opener, or a best friend's name. The researchers then followed Amazon's directions for deleting each piece of information using the FreeTime feature in the Amazon Alexa app, which is meant for controlling the Echo Dot Kids Edition. When they checked later, the device had retained the information. Consumer Reports replicated these results. We asked the Echo Dot Kids Edition to remember a birthday, the color of our dog (blue) and our name, then used the appropriate FreeTime menu in the Amazon Alexa app to delete the information. Then, we asked the Dot to tell us what it remembered and found that all of the information had been retained. However, we got different results with the adult version of the product. When we performed the same experiment with a normal Echo Dot and standard menus in the Alexa app, we were able to delete the information. Amazon has not yet responded to a request for comment about the difference in functionality. "We were shocked to discover that even if you take the time to listen to these recordings of your child and delete the ones you don't want Amazon to have, Amazon retains that information in those recordings anyway," says Golin. "That seems fundamentally unfair to parents, but also clearly a violation of a parent's right to delete." A bipartisan group of senators, Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), and Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) wrote a letter to the FTC urging the agency to invesigate Amazon's potential COPPA violations. Hawley and Markey, who was one of the authors of COPPA, introduced a bill in March that would update the law by expanding its protections to 15-year-olds and mandating an "eraser button" that would allow parents to delete information collected about their children. More from Consumer Reports: Top pick tires for 2016 Best used cars for $25,000 and less 7 best mattresses for couples Consumer Reports is an independent, nonprofit organization that works side by side with consumers to create a fairer, safer, and healthier world. CR does not endorse products or services, and does not accept advertising. Copyright 2019, Consumer Reports, Inc. BEIRUT (AP) The U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces took credit for defeating the Islamic State group in its last stronghold in eastern Syria, celebrating the victory in front of throngs of journalists at a ceremony in March following a bloody four-year war. But the Kurdish-led force now faces protests by local Arab tribesmen in Deir el-Zour province demanding better services, jobs and a bigger role in decision-making in the predominantly Arab, oil-rich and fertile region. Though limited to about a dozen villages for now, the demonstrations are a growing challenge to the U.S. and its local partners at a time when President Donald Trump plans to reduce America's military presence in Syria. On Thursday, the Kurdish-led fighters opened fire at protesters in the village of Shheil, killing one person the first fatality since the protests began last month, according to Syrian state TV and the DeirEzzor24 activist collective, which monitors developments in the province. The protest came after an overnight raid in the village by the U.S.-led coalition and the Kurdish force killed six people, according to DeirEzzor24 and the Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a war monitoring group. The Observatory said two people, one of them an IS member, were arrested. An SDF official, who spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to speak to the media, said the protesters so far are a small percentage of Deir el-Zour residents. But the demonstration benefit the Syrian government, its Iranian backers and Turkey, and undermine "our victory against Daesh," he said, using an Arabic acronym for IS. Several rounds of talks between the SDF and local officials have so far failed to make progress, leading to concerns the protests could transform into an all-out uprising against the predominantly Kurdish force, founded in 2015 to fight IS and armed by the U.S. IS sleeper cells have intensified attacks in recent weeks. Syrian President Bashar Assad's troops, based along the west bank of the Euphrates River that cuts through Deir el-Zour, have vowed to reassert control over Kurdish-held areas in northern Syria. And Turkey, which considers the force to be a terrorist organization, has also set its sights on the region. Story continues The SDF controls nearly a third of Syria, but unlike the provinces of Raqqa and Hassakeh in the north that have large Kurdish populations, Deir el-Zour in the east is almost purely Arab, leading to ethnic tensions between the local population and the Kurdish force. Two years after entering the province in their push against IS, the SDF appears to have failed to win the hearts and minds in the region, which suffers from a lack of services, rising crime, fuel shortages and anger over what they see as growing Kurdish influence. Although the SDF is a mixed force consisting of Kurds, Arabs and Christian fighters, its backbone is the Kurdish People's Protection Units, or YPG. Some SDF officials see what's happening in eastern Syria as riots backed by Assad's government with the aim of hurting the SDF and its American backers. Until Thursday's fatal shooting, the over two weeks of protests by the residents in more than a dozen towns and villages in Deir el-Zour have been mostly peaceful as the protesters closed major roads and burned tires to prevent SDF tanker trucks from taking crude to Kurdish-held areas in the country's north. Areas liberated from IS suffer fuel shortages and IS sleeper cells are launching a guerrilla campaign to avenge their defeat two months ago when the SDF captured the village of Baghouz, marking the end of the extremists' self-declared caliphate. Some of the protesters believe that Kurdish fighters sell oil to Assad's loyalists amid severe fuel shortages in government-held parts of the country, aggravated by U.S. sanctions on Syria and its main backer, Iran. Since SDF began capturing parts of Deir el-Zour in 2017, residents have expressed anger at what they say has been forced recruitment of Arab residents into the SDF, as well as the detention of many on suspicion of links to IS. "People are fed up with the SDF," said Omar Abu Laila, a Europe-based activist from Deir el-Zour who runs a group that monitors developments in the province. "They are robbing the wealth of the people in the region." The protests took a turn for the worse on April 24, when according to Deir el-Zour activists, the U.S.-led coalition and SDF fighters stormed a house in the village of Daman and killed six people, including two women and a child. They said the raid targeted a man called Farhan al-Sarhan, whom the SDF says is linked to IS, a charge that activists deny. A day later, protests spread quickly to nearby villages and towns including Tayyaneh, Haseen, Mheimda, Husan, Shannan and Shheil. "No to Kurdish occupation," read one banner carried by protesters, according to images posted on social media. "The pace of rehabilitation, economic development and provision of essential services has not been sufficient to meet the basic needs of the population," Bassam Barabandi, a former Syrian diplomat now based in Washington, said of the protests. "As a result, people are feeling very hopeless about their current situation and the future. They do not see the regime as an acceptable alternative, and they are looking for the U.S. to act." Several meetings have been held over the past weeks between SDF officials and Arab dignitaries from Deir el-Zour to try to ease the tension without success, according to Barabandi and Observatory. An Arab man from Deir el-Zour who took part in the talks, said that "the Kurds have been refusing to make any concessions." He spoke on condition of anonymity out of concern for his safety. He said the SDF is taking away most of the oil it pumps in Deir el-Zour about 60,000 barrels a day and leaves hardly anything behind. Arab officials demanded, among other things, the release of SDF-held detainees, stopping the flow of oil from the province, giving Deir el-Zour fighters within the SDF a bigger role, ending compulsory conscription into the SDF and improving electricity and fuel services. Rami Abdurrahman, who heads the Observatory, said chaos in eastern Syria is not a good omen for the SDF. "The regime could be the biggest winner from what is happening," he said. ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) New Mexico's top prosecutor is demanding that the U.S. Air Force close a publicly accessible lake at Holloman Air Force Base, saying Thursday the concentration of hazardous chemicals at the site poses a risk to public health and the environment. In a letter obtained by The Associated Press, Attorney General Hector Balderas told Air Force officials that sampling shows the contamination linked to chemicals known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS are dozens of times higher than federal health advisory levels. In the case of perfluorooctanoic acid, or PFOA, the samples showed 84 times more than the advisory levels set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. "These sampling results exacerbate the state's concern for its citizens and the environment," Balderas wrote, noting that the presence of the chemicals "poses an ongoing severe threat to members of the public." Fed by treated wastewater from the air base, the lake already is off limits to swimming. State health officials on Thursday again warned that people should not swim in or drink from the lake. If people come in contact with the water or foam near the shoreline, they should rinse off. Health officials also warned pet owners to avoid letting their animals drink or come into contact with the water or foam. New Mexico is preparing to sue the Air Force over groundwater contamination at two bases, arguing that the federal government has a responsibility to clean up plumes of toxic chemicals left behind by past military firefighting activities. Similar contamination has been found at dozens of military sites across the nation, and growing evidence that exposure can be dangerous has prompted the EPA to consider setting a maximum level for the chemicals in drinking water nationwide. Currently only non-enforceable drinking water health advisories are in place. New Mexico environmental regulators first issued a notice of violation to the Air Force in 2018 for failing to properly address the contamination at Cannon Air Force Base near Clovis. They followed earlier this year on Holloman, saying that base had violated its state permit and had yet to respond to concerns about the pollution near Alamogordo. Story continues Balderas set a deadline of May 16 for the Air Force to respond to his latest request. The Air Force has repeatedly declined to comment on the state's pending litigation but argues that its response to PFAS contamination in New Mexico and elsewhere has been aggressive. The military has provided alternate water sources for those in areas where Air Force activity likely contributed to contamination. Officials also have said they've been working with regulators to identify and implement long-term solutions to prevent exposure. According to a report from independent federal investigators, the U.S. military as of 2017 had spent about $200 million on environmental investigations and other responses related to chemicals at 263 installations around the country. The U.S. Department of Defense has said it could take years to determine a total price tag for PFAS contamination at military sites. The attorney general's office also is asking that the Air Force make publicly available all information it has related to the risk of PFAS exposure at and around the Holloman and Cannon bases. Balderas wrote that his requests won't diminish the contamination emanating from the bases, but it will help protect citizens from one pathway of exposure. Holloman borders Alamogordo, where 31,000 residents rely on groundwater within the Tularosa Basin. Base officials there identified five known sites where the chemicals were released. The lake is near the popular tourist destination of White Sands National Monument. Some visitors to the area have used the lake's shoreline as a camping spot. AMES, Iowa Elizabeth Duncan, wearing a black shirt reading "Nevertheless, she persisted" and her hair in pigtails, stood patiently in a long, winding line. Like others before her, the 12-year-old from Ames was waiting to shake the hand of Sen. Elizabeth Warren and take a photo next to her. The highly organized photo line is a trademark piece of Warren's campaign events in Iowa. But the girl's encounter with the Democratic presidential candidate would be different. Sure, there was a photo, a handshake and a smile. But then Warren looked her in the eye and said: "My name is Elizabeth and I'm running for president, because that's what girls do." The senator then locked Elizabeth's pinky with her own and asked that she'd promise to remember. The moment lasted fewer than 20 seconds, but it's something the young Iowan says she'll remember for a long time. "She said, 'We're in this together,'" Elizabeth said. "It's amazing." U.S. Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., does a pinky swear with three-year-old Emmeline, of Cedar Rapids, during a Linn Phoenix Club meet and greet on Thursday, April 25, 2019, in Cedar Rapids. The ritual, and the pinky promise, is what Warren repeats with every young girl who comes to campaign events and waits in the photo line. Her campaign estimates Warren has taken 5,000 photos with supporters since her first trip to Iowa in early January. One or two pinky promises are made at each event. The tradition started when Warren ran for the Senate in 2012. Supporters encouraged her to run, but told her it was unlikely a woman would be elected senator or even, governor of Massachusetts for at least a decade, Warren says. "There was lots of coverage of my clothes, and my voice, and my hair and lots of comparisons to the woman who had lost (before her). And I just stayed after it," she told reporters after a meet and greet in Clinton last month. "And mostly worked hard to make every day count and that's how I ended up talking with every little girl I got a chance to." To keep herself going through the rough campaign, Warren would count those pinky promises, she said. She eventually went on to beat the incumbent, Republican Sen. Scott Brown, by 7.5 points. Story continues "It matters a lot to me that little girls see themselves as future presidents of the United States," she told reporters after a meet and greet in Osage, Iowa, on Saturday. More: Elizabeth Warren: Send executives to jail for their role in the opioid epidemic Like what youre reading? Download the USA TODAY app for more. Sen. Elizabeth Warren makes a pinky promise with 10-year-old Robyn Kelsey after a house party in Iowa Falls. 'A powerful message' That type of interaction normalizes women running for president and makes it achievable, said Karen Kedrowski, director of the Carrie Chapman Catt Center for Women in Politics at Iowa State University. Research shows that women and people of color are more likely to run for office when they see others who look like them run, she said. A historic six women are vying for the Democratic nomination in the 2020 cycle the first presidential election since Hillary Clinton became the first female nominee. "It's also a powerful message for other people around them because it normalizes this for everyone who would be within earshot," Kedrowski said of Warren's pinky promises. "And its a powerful message to adults that this isn't something weird or odd and that she shouldn't be judged first as a woman and second as a candidate, but as a candidate first with positions and a record and experience and a resume." In Cedar Rapids last month, Warren made the pinky promise with Emmeline Warbasse after twirling the 3-year-old around while her father looked on. Matthew Warbasse, who has yet to decide for whom he'll caucus, said he plans to take Emmeline and her 16-year-old sister, Lillian, to see every female candidate who visits eastern Iowa. Interactive guide: Get to know the candidates running for president More: 4 decades separate 2020's presidential candidates. Here's what that looks like. "To see a woman in that position is something they can aspire to someday," he said. "The more our executive branch looks like a meritocracy, the more it becomes a self-fulfilling thing where we have more women or people who are not white see themselves as having a valuable voice that's worthy of listening to." Warren rarely speaks about her gender while campaigning in Iowa, except when asked a question. Even then, the senator has a knack for redirecting the conversation back to her ideas-based campaign. When asked by an audience member in Marshalltown whether she can beat President Donald Trump, Warren spoke about her work as a private citizen establishing the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau and, later, coming from behind 17 points to win Brown's senate seat. She said she would do the same to become the Democratic nominee and, eventually, beat Trump by getting organized, fighting for working people and building a grassroots movement focused on rebuilding the middle class. "And that is how Im going to be the first woman elected president of the United States," she said. It's a line she's only said a few of times in Iowa, but when she says it, it gets huge response. In Cedar Rapids, when a supporter wearing a "Mt. Nasty" T-shirt an homage to Mount Rushmore but with the faces of Clinton, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Warren and Michelle Obama asked what she'd do for women in her first 100 days in office, Warren replied: "Can we just start with what the impact would be on women to have a woman in the White House?" Later during that swing through the state, a reporter asked Warren if she was ever sick of talking about her gender, given her campaign's focus on policy. "What matters are the things that touch people and right now I think the things that people are beginning to get an idea of is that we can make real structural change in this country to get rid of student loan debt for tens of millions of people, to make universal child care available for all of our babies the kinds of things that would be life-altering," she said in Clinton. "That's where I think the conversation is going. And it's exciting to be a part of it." Meanwhile, Elizabeth Duncan, the 12-year-old from Ames, said she will continue to follow Warren's run for president and use the senator's positions to influence the papers on gender equality and the Electoral College she writes for school. "I just think she's so strong and powerful," she said. "She's definitely a role model for girls like me." This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: 'That's what girls do': Elizabeth Warren tells young girls why she's running for president, with a pinky promise The gunman who launched a deadly attack at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte last week appeared to target a specific group in a classroom, but his reasons remain elusive. An affidavit accompanying a search warrant of Trystan Andrew Terrells apartment and interviews conducted by The Associated Press reveal the assailant zeroed in on the students sitting at a table in the anthropology and philosophy of science class. Witness Joshua Ayers made that statement to police in the affidavit and reiterated it to the AP on Thursday, saying Terrell headed toward a table that wasnt the closest one to the door through which he entered the room. He came in and directly walked to the table in the corner, said Ayers, a sophomore who was sitting at a different table. He didnt move from that area of the room. According to Ayers, Terrell fired five or six shots aimed at the table, saying, He didnt look anywhere else. Riley Howell, 21, who was commended for saving lives by tackling the attacker, and Ellis Reed Parlier, 19, were killed in the April 30 assault. Four other students were wounded. Terrell, 22, was indicted Monday on charges of murder and attempted murder, among other counts. Trystan Andrew Terrell is taken into Charlotte police headquarters. Police identified the 22-year-old as the suspect of the UNC Charlotte shooting. Police have said from the beginning they believed Terrell had chosen the Kennedy building for his attack on purpose, but they have not revealed a motive. The class, taught by professor Adam Johnson, is held in a wide room in the Kennedy Hall and the students sit in groups at round tables. Johnson said in a blog post that Terrell was registered for the class and initially seemed engaged, but eventually dropped it in January. Sophomore Jared Jackowitz was sitting at the table in question and told the AP he and other students there also felt they were the subjects of the attack, but didnt know why. The kid wasnt part of our group, Jackowitz said. I didnt know him at all. Jackowitz said three students at the table were shot and another one barely escaped injury when a laptop in his backpack stopped a bullet that would have otherwise hit him. Story continues Prevention best option: Police stopped UNC Charlotte shooting quickly. But what about preventing it? Heroic death: 'Let's tell Riley we love him': Hundreds gather to honor UNC Charlotte shooting victim We felt like our table was the one targeted because we had more shots toward us, Jackowitz said. I dont know if the guy was aiming for all of us. The investigative documents made public Thursday revealed Terrell had a bag with multiple ammunition magazines, and that six boxes of ammunition were seized from his apartment. There is considerable mystery surrounding Terrell, who grew up in the Dallas area and moved to North Carolina with his father after his mother died when Terrell was 15. He completed high school and attended Central Piedmont Community College in Charlotte before enrolling at UNCC. Authorities said he withdrew from the school before the semester was over. His grandfather, Paul Rold, has told new outlets Terrell is autistic and did not socialize much with his peers but had previously shown no affinity for firearms. Never in a million years would you have thought he could do this, Rold told the Charlotte Observer three days after the shooting. Its still up in the air what motivated him. Contributing: The Associated Press This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: 'He didnt look anywhere else:' UNC Charlotte shooter appears to have had specific targets PENSACOLA, Fla. A Florida woman was arrested last week after her children's poor hygiene at school prompted a sheriff's office inquiry revealing living conditions unfit for children. Jessica Stevenson, 33, of Milton, was arrested Friday and charged with child neglect without causing great bodily harm. Her bond was set at $12,500. According to her arrest report, a staffer at Bagdad Elementary School reported on three siblings who attended the school to the Florida Department of Children and Families. The employee said shed noticed a second-grade student wearing the same clothing for an entire week in April and that the childs body odor was hard to ignore, the report stated The employee questioned the second-grader as to when their last bath had been, the report stated. The student replied they did not know. The employee provided the student with new clothing and took the old outfit, she said. The old clothes were severely soiled with dirt caked into the fabric, the report stated. The employee also told investigators that at one point hundreds of bugs crawled out of the students backpack in the lunchroom, the report stated. The second-grade student has four siblings, according to the arrest report. The five siblings were between ages 5 and 14. Three of the five children attended Bagdad Elementary School, the report stated. Another teacher at Bagdad Elementary School told investigators that shed met with the childrens caretaker, Jessica Stevenson. The teacher said Stevenson immediately berated her after assuming it was her who called DCF, the report stated. The teacher said she knew that one of the siblings had repeatedly been given new clothing by the school, the report stated. Each new outfit would be worn continuously, day-after-after, until it was inevitably worn out, at which point, another new set of clothing would be provided by the school to the student, the report said. The teacher said her student was frequently crying, having meltdowns and seemed depressed, the report said. Story continues Based on the school staffer's report, the Santa Rosa County Sheriffs Office opened an investigation April 18 into the living conditions of the students, the arrest record stated. Deputies visiting the siblings residence discovered a cockroach infestation, the report said: The roaches were on nearly every surface in the home including on the childrens mattress, in the pots and pans in the kitchen, and inside the cabinets/fridge. Cabinets were empty of food, and the refrigerator contained two cartons of rancid milk, spoiled eggs, some sugar and a stick of butter, the report said. A plugged in microwave dangled out of a window by its cord. The home was filthy" overall, the report stated, except for Stevensons bedroom. Compared to the rest of the home, Stevensons bedroom was clean with minimal roaches and had a stashed bag of snacks. Stevenson made bond the day after her arrest and was released from custody on May 4. This article originally appeared on Pensacola News Journal: 'Hundreds of bugs' in child's backpack leads to Florida mom's arrest HIGHLANDS RANCH, Colo. A woman claiming to be a parent of a STEM School student warned school district administrators in December about what she described as rampant bullying, drug use and her fears of a a repeat of Columbine at the semi-autonomous charter school. The anonymous complaints alarmed authorities enough that they requested an investigation by police and school officials. Its not yet clear whether theres any connection between the womans complaints and the Tuesday attack at the school that killed one student and injured eight others. Two students accused in the attack remain jailed and are expected to be formally charged Friday. As a charter school, the STEM School is largely exempt from the rules and policies governing neighboring public schools, although it is still accountable to the district via a legal agreement. STEM School officials in January adamantly rejected the womans concerns and sued her for defamation, according to court records and a letter sent by district officials to the school and obtained by USA TODAY. Because the womans call was made anonymously, STEM School officials asked a judge to subpoena phone records to find her. Mass shootings: 11 days. 3 shootings. 3 heroes. The caller told district officials that the schools high-pressure environment was creating a perfect storm because of drug use, peer pressure and an administration blind to ongoing problems, according to a summary provided by district officials. District leaders were meeting Thursday to discuss the shooting and did not immediately responded to requests for comment. While the anonymous nature of the call and lack of detail relating to some of the allegations limits what can be verified, the concerns expressed by this individual are very serious and need to be looked into to the extent possible, Daniel Windsor, an administrator for the Douglas County School District, wrote in the letter to the STEM Schools executive director, Penny Eucker. Story continues In their lawsuit, STEM School officials called the woman's complaints outrageously false and categorically denied them. The case is still pending. STEM school officials have not responded to requests for comment about the shooting or the womans complaints. Discovery of the the letter and lawsuit added yet more emotion to an already tense situation for grieving families and students. Wednesday night, hundreds of STEM students attending a vigil stormed out over frustration that it politicized their grief by focusing on gun control. The event was organized by the Brady Campaign, a gun-control group, but many attendees didn't realize that. Police have arrested two STEM students in connection with Tuesday's shooting that left one student dead and eight others injured. Reports: Woman 'infatuated' by Columbine shooting found dead 'You would all be dead': Active shooter training in March for Our Lives PSA One of three students credited with overpowering a gunman at a suburban Denver high school said Kendrick Castillo, a close friend and the lone fatality from the carnage, was the true hero who halted the bloodbath. Kendrick went out as a hero, Brendan Bialy told reporters. He was a foot away from the shooter and instead of running the opposite direction he ran toward it. Eyewitness accounts detailing how heroic students and a former U.S. Marine helped end the attack at STEM School Highlands Ranch continued to emerge as court proceedings began for the suspects. Authorities arrested Devon Erickson, 18, and a second suspect a juvenile identified both as Maya McKinney and Alec McKinney who they say walked into classrooms at the K-12 school Tuesday and opened fire. Erickson, a student at the school, faces a murder charge and dozens of attempted murder charges in connection with the shooting that killed Castillo, 18. Students and teachers raise their arms as they exit the scene of a shooting at the STEM School Highlands Ranch. One of the shooters was disarmed and subdued by a former Marine working as a private security guard patrolling the school, his boss said. Castillo, Bialy and Joshua Jones minimized the bloodshed by attacking Erickson when the gunfire erupted in their classroom, witnesses said. Jones was shot twice, according to a statement released by his family. Bialy said they fought back out of instinct, and even though the gunman got some shots off, Bialy wrestled the firearm from him and they were able to subdue him. Bialy said he was scared but unwilling to recoil from shooters he repeatedly called cowards. They lost, he said. They completely and utterly lost to good people. Gov. Jared Polis called Castillo a "hero" for charging at one of the shooters and lauded student Bialy for taking similar action. Their bravery allowed other students to run for cover and hide in closets and under desks. "Colorado will always remember the heroism of Kendrick Castillo," Polis said in a statement. Bacon reported from McLean, Virginia. Contributing: Kristin Lam, reporting from Los Angeles; The Associated Press This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: STEM School was urged to investigate concerns over 'a repeat of Columbine' months before shooting The first in his immediate family to go to college, Donnell Williamson Jr. is an academic with a passion for Sren Kierkegaard and Frederick Douglass. Photo by Lisa Stone, Candler Communications During his years in Candler School of Theologys Master of Divinity program, Donnell Williamson Jr. has found meaning not only in the classroom, but in community, across an ocean and within himself. Williamson is an academic with a passion for Sren Kierkegaard and Frederick Douglass. He came to Candler after studying sociology of religion at Morehouse College, and after graduation, hes headed to Brown University, where he will pursue a PhD in religion and critical thought. He grew up in Shelby, North Carolina, learning Bible verses, reciting them at age four to soothe his grandmother when her only son Williamsons father died from gun violence. I didnt know what they meant, but they gave her some type of peace and solace, he recalls. From then on, family and friends told him that he would be a pastor, though he knew that wasnt his calling. After Williamson finished at Morehouse the first in his immediate family to go to college his cousin, a beloved father figure, suggested he consider seminary. One week after their conversation, his cousin died, another victim of gun violence in Williamsons family. How do you actually grieve this? I started questioning God, going through a spurt of depression, Williamson recalls. And I heard it clear as day: Just go to Candler. At Candler, Williamson, a self-described Kierkegaard fanatic, was eager to study death and despair. He wrote his theology and ethics capstone on the ironic reversal between Kierkegaard and Frederick Douglass. Im interested in Douglass because many people use him for political science or sociology or African American studies, but we very seldom talk about him in a religious scope. I really want to see what that looks like, he explains. Thats something Im interested in for my PhD program. A gateway to the world This year, he took his academic interests to a wider audience as the organizer of a colloquy honoring the centennial of theologian Karl Barths The Epistle to the Romans. He invited Candler professors David Pacini, Steven Kraftchick and Kendall Soulen to speak to what was ultimately a full-capacity crowd. Candler has also served as a gateway to the wider world, giving Williamson the opportunity to study for a year at Ludwig-Maximilians-Universitat in Munich, Germany, one of his best seminary memories. Not only did he make what he calls lifetime friends, he was able to explore his own inner workings particularly his identity as a black man and how others perceived it away from the American consciousness, where race is an inherent factor. He recalls a conversation with a German peer who wanted to know more about Williamsons roots beyond the U.S. He said, But where are your people from? It got to the point where he asked, Arent you African? Well, yeah, but there was this thing called slavery and the Middle Passage, so I dont know where in Africa my family comes from. Williamson left the exchange offended. But later, he watched that same peer approach a white American, who clearly wasnt bothered by the probing. He decided to talk with the man and explain why he had been offended. He said, Oh no, we Germans just think that everybody from America is an immigrant! And I thought, thats my privilegeI didnt even recognize that I just assumed that the U.S. was mine. Everybody is an immigrant. I didnt realize that he wasnt trying to attack me. He really wanted to genuinely know where I was from and have a conversation. I was so caught up in what it meant to be part of the black experience that it became an identity, and weaponizing blackness was an identity. He continues, Germany taught me how to love myself. I had time to think about what it means to be human not necessarily what it means to be black. Im not saying that Im negating my blackness, but setting aside the projections and negativity that people have poured into me, telling me that this is what I must represent, these are the battles I must fight. If I do fight them, Im going to do it my way. Williamson also took the opportunity to travel, spending Thanksgiving in Paris and Easter at the Vatican, where he had the phenomenal experience of attending the papal Easter service. When he visited Russia, any stereotypes hed had going in were quickly turned upside down. This guy realized we were foreigners. He took his hand in the shape of a heart and put it over his chest, gave me a hug and kissed me on the cheek. He said, We love you. Come back. To hear that from a Russian and have a different experience [than what the media shows] was completely eye-opening. Connecting at Candler Back on campus for his final MDiv year, Williamson has served as an ambassador in Candlers Office of Admission and Financial Aid, connecting with prospective students. Hes most enjoyed taking prospects on tours, sharing spaces that have mattered to him, and introducing them to professors. It shows that we really are a community and relationships are important, he says. Williamson can speak from experience; his relationships with faculty mentors and their commitment to his individual experience have proved to be a highlight of his Candler career. He holds a special connection with Laney Professor in Moral Leadership Robert Franklin Jr., who was president of Morehouse when Williamson attended and has been his professor at Candler. Ive talked to him about how to do a methodology for a paper, but Ive also asked him, How do I remain conscious of the problems within the black community without becoming so focused on scholarship produced by white men in Europe? I am attracted to the thoughts of Kierkegaard, but everyone may not be, Williamson says. And then theres the access that Candler has afforded as part of top-ranked research university Emory, where he has taken classes in different departments all of his German preparation for Munich was done through Emory Colleges Modern Foreign Language department and sought out other expert scholars. If you have a question about law, go to the law school. If you have a question about health and science, go to Rollins [School of Public Health]. And if you have a question about religion in connection with any other topic? Theres a person here on campus who can talk about it. Williamson recalls expressing interest in how African traditions were syncretized into Christianity, and someone recommended Dianne Stewart. I just walked across the Quad, and here is this professor who does African religious work. At Emory, he says, youre right here. And Williamson has soaked up every moment of being right herein the thick of this community of scholars, unpacking his identity, his vocation, and whats next on this path that only he can walk. President Donald Trump was tickled Wednesday when an audience member at a Florida rally suggested shooting migrants arriving at the U.S.-Mexican border. Trump was bemoaning the legal protections afforded migrants and espousing the need for a border wall when he asked rhetorically, "How do you stop these people?" "Shoot them!" someone shouted from the Panama City Beach crowd, according to multiple news media reports. The remark drew a chuckle from the president, who shook his head, pointed in the audience member's direction and said, "Only in the Panhandle you can get away with that statement." "Only in the Panhandle," he repeated to laughs and cheers from the crowd. Donald Trump jokes with supporters about shooting migrants at the border https://t.co/OPJUT3dN8U pic.twitter.com/74BH0FqVXy Newsweek (@Newsweek) May 9, 2019 Before the interruption, Trump mentioned "border security people" who he said are not permitted to use weapons on the migrants. "I mean, when you have 15,000 people marching up, and you have hundreds and hundreds of people, and you have two or three border security people that are brave and great and don't forget, we don't let them and we can't let them use weapons. We can't. Other countries do. We can't. I would never do that," he said. Florida rally: Trump announces Florida disaster relief in Panama City Beach Border barrier: Environmental groups rip plan to replace 63 miles of border fence in Arizona They screamed shoot em ... They were referring to the immigrants. One Trump supporter tells me she heard someone in the crowd shout shoot em. She added, the President responded directly after: only in the panhandle https://t.co/IpsopXrh1v pic.twitter.com/6MStwnAJcb Rachel Scott (@rachelvscott) May 9, 2019 Border Patrol agents are limited in the use of force. Story continues In November, Trump suggested that the U.S. troops he deployed could fire on migrants who throw rocks. Later that month, the White House approved a memo authorizing those troops to use lethal force on migrants if necessary. The Wall: Border vigilantes, and the wall they might watch During an interview with Fox News host Sean Hannity in March, Trump said the threat of deadly force is a "very effective" way to deter migrants, but the United States "can't do it." "We need to defend our country. You have people pouring in," he told Hannity. "Now, we're capturing these people, we're getting them. But we don't do like other countries. Other countries stand there with machine guns ready to fire. We can't do that, and I wouldn't want to do that." This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: 'Only in the Panhandle': Trump chuckles when audience member suggests shooting migrants A protest broke out at a vigil Wednesday for victims of the shooting at STEM School Highlands Ranch, with some students reportedly walking out because of what they called politicization of their grief. Students from STEM School, as well as politicians, activists and other community members, attended the vigil at nearby Highlands Ranch High School, outside Denver. The vigil was meant to honor 18-year-old Kendrick Castillo, the student who died in Tuesdays shooting while apparently trying to diffuse the situation, the Denver Postreports. Eight other students were wounded. Two students, an 18-year-old and a 16-year-old, are in custody. But after multiple speakers including Colorado Sen. Michael Bennet and Rep. Jason Crow, both Democrats addressed the crowd, STEM students began to complain that they had not been allowed to speak, according to local media reports. Let STEM kids speak! one voice called from the audience, according to the Highlands Ranch Herald. Shortly thereafter, according to the Herald, students began to leave the vigil and move into the hallway to speak with event organizers. From there, things devolved. A woman, who the Herald says identified herself only as a mother, approached the microphone and said STEM students had been told by the media to leave though it was not clear why she thought so prompting more of the crowd to leave the gymnasium and some to engage in anti-media chants. Chants about the need for better mental health resources also rang out, as students protested the political nature of the event. Dont use Kendricks name for political reasons! a student outside the vigil shouted, according to the Herald. Students from Highlands Ranch HS hosted a community vigil in support of STEM students. A group of STEM students and other walked out of the event after a few voiced concerns about not being listed as speakers for the vigil program. #9Newspic.twitter.com/3kA7bbnjAS Ama Arthur-Asmah (@Ama_A_Asmah) May 9, 2019 Eventually, STEM students and other audience members returned to the vigil, and some approached the podium to speak. Some complained about the political overtones of the event, while others emphasized that the vigil was meant to honor Castillo, 9 News reports. Story continues What has happened at STEM is awful, but its not a statistic, one student said. We cant be used for a reason for gun control. We are people, not a statement. One boy also noted that STEM students had not been asked to leave the vigil. We wanted Kendrick to be mourned. We wanted all of you to join us in that mourning, but that was not allowed here, he said. We all walked out. We were not kicked out, despite what you have heard. We are back now to tell you that we love Kendrick, and we love all of the survivors. After STEM students returned to the gym, the vigil continued until about 9 p.m., the Post reports. Several students also spoke with reporters after the event ended. I think I speak for STEM when I say we do thank Highlands Ranch High School for hosting this, STEM School senior Logan Griffith told the Herald. However, this was for Kendrick Castillo. Not for our senator, not for anyone else. In her cinder block home in Venezuelas second city of Maracaibo, 14-year-old Ana Bravo puts her hand to her mouth to signal her hunger. She is waiting for her mother to cook up a plate of yucca root, her only meal for that day. Suffering from malnutrition and a learning disability, Bravo weighs just 44 pounds (20 kilograms) and stands below four feet, her arms thin as bone, her belly swollen. We only eat at night, so that we dont go to bed with nothing, says her mother Glennis Delgado. In this embattled South American nation, they survive on charity and thin government handouts. Advisory: Graphic content could be disturbing to some readers. Residents of Maracaibo collected water from pipes, rivers and sewage drains in April. The energy crisis has left much of Venezuela without a steady water supply. | Alvaro Ybarra ZavalaGetty Images Reportage Residents of the Saladillo block of apartments in Maracaibo, after a power cut, on April 12. Venezuela's unprecedented energy crisis left its second largest city without power for long periods in March and April. | Alvaro Ybarra ZavalaGetty Images Reportage A downed power line after an explosion due to being overloaded in Maracaibo in April. | Alvaro Ybarra ZavalaGetty Images Reportage Their slum neighborhood has always been poor but since a severe economic crisis began around five years ago, it has slipped into desperation and malnutrition. Its particularly difficult for those who already suffer from sickness or disability. In a nearby house, 28-year-old Miguel Blanco, who has a neurological condition, weighs just 66 pounds (30 kilos), his skin looking like it sticks to his bones, his muscles all but wasted away. Neighbor Katherine Castilla fears for the survival of her two-month-old baby daughter, who was born prematurely and is failing to gain weight. Venezuela remains far from famine, but food shortages are so persistent that the average resident lost 24 pounds in 2017, and malnutrition a shortfall in calories and essential nutrients is a growing concern, especially because it increases the risk of infectious disease. The latest report from Catholic charity Caritas finds that 23 percent of children under five in Venezuela suffer from malnutrition and another 34 percent are at risk. Blanco weighs just 66 pounds (30 kilograms). | Alvaro Ybarra ZavalaGetty Images Reportage For those who were already sick, the situation is dramatically worse. Essential medicines are, like food, have been difficult to find or afford for years now. Those who struggled for health in normal times have been most vulnerable to the countrys dysfunction. UNICEF says that 7 million Venezuelans, including 3.2 million children, are in need of assistance. We are watching our people die, says Carolina Leal, a community activist in the Maracaibo slum. Story continues This humanitarian crisis has been at the heart of the political battle for control of Venezuela, including a failed uprising on April 30 that the Trump administration voiced support for. President Nicolas Maduro, the heir of socialist icon Hugo Chavez, is accused of chronic mismanagement. Since he took office in 2013, he has steered the nation that boasts the largest oil reserves on the planet into misery. His opponent Juan Guaido, who heads the national assembly and is recognized as the real interim president by more than 50 countries, including the United States, cites the hunger in his calls to soldiers and citizens to overturn Maduro. Katherine Castilla, 19, holds her baby girl Sarangeli, who suffers from malnutrition. Castilla lives in the same neighborhood as Blanco. | Alvaro Ybarra ZavalaGetty Images Reportage Yet despite the depth of the crisis and President Trumps backing for change, Maduro has been markedly resilient in clinging to power. Most of Venezuelas military, especially the high brass, has stayed loyal to the socialist government while protests have been effectively put down with water cannons, rubber bullets and armored vehicles ploughing through demonstrators. U.S. National Security Adviser John Bolton claimed on April 30 that key Venezuelan cabinet members had agreed to oust Maduro but as days went by they was no sign of these defections. Attempts to bring in aid have been bogged down in these politics. In February, Guaido tried to coordinate foreign convoys to ferry in food and medical supplies, which would also bolster his attempts to gain power. However, Venezuelan security forces and Chavista paramilitaries blocked them and maintained control of their own food handouts delivered in a scheme known as CLAP. An interior of a hotel after it was looted in Maracaibo in April. The city has experienced widespread looting amid electricity blackouts and shortages. | Alvaro Ybarra ZavalaGetty Images Reportage Edwin Bravo, 47, suffers from two tumors. He had been hospitalized in Maracaibo for a month and a half and had not yet received proper medical treatment. He remains in the hospital, fighting for his life. | Alvaro Ybarra ZavalaGetty Images Reportage Maduro has long claimed the idea of a humanitarian crisis is manufactured by foreign forces as a prelude to regime change. They try to justify a North American intervention and for humanitarian reasons, but they are looking for petroleum, the wealth of the county, he said last year. But while Trump has not ruled out military intervention in Venezuela, there are no solid signs he would commit to such a costly and problematic venture. Instead, he has bet on upping sanctions, shutting down Venezuelas oil sales to the United States and cutting off the its Central Banks access to dollars. Such sanctions, however, have a history of failing to topple governments in countries such as Cuba and Iraq, while punishing poor people the most. A report by the Center for Economic and Policy Research think tank blamed sanctions for exacerbating Venezuelas poverty and said they could push humanitarian problems further over the edge. The accelerating economic collapse that current sanctions have locked in assure further impacts on health, and premature deaths, it says. Saida Bravo, 44, suffers from Parkinson's and malnutrition. She shares a home with her brother and sister-in-law, and spends most of her time in a room. | Alvaro Ybarra ZavalaGetty Images Reportage Those effects will be felt most harshly in slums like the ones in Maracaibo. The situation already feels like the aftermath of an earthquake, with a collapse in services, constant electricity black outs, sporadic running water. Garbage covers the streets, as people search through for scraps. Children only sporadically make it to school, if at all, and criminal gangs control the corners. Gustavo Rincon, a pediatrician working in the neighborhood, says that even if the country recovers, the damage from malnutrition, including mental retardation and stunted growth, will haunt people for years to come. This will cost a lot for the country to get over, he says, because the generational damage is irreversible. With additional reporting by Ioan Grillo Dominic Lipinski/Getty Images Meghan Markle and Prince Harry welcomed their first child to the world on Monday. And, with the whole world waiting, they announced Wednesday the baby boys name: Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor. Heres everything you need to know about the newborn royal: Hes Seventh in Line to the British Throne Ahead of him in the queue are his grandfather, Charles, Prince of Wales, his uncle, Prince William, the Duke of Cambridge, his cousinsPrince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louisand finally his father, Prince Harry. The baby royal is the queens eighth great-grandchild. Archie is not officially a prince, and therefore will not be called His Royal Highness. Instead, he is expected to be given the title of the Earl of Dumbarton. Prince Harry was given the Dumbarton titlewhich refers to a Scottish town to the west of Glasgowby the queen on the morning of his wedding. As the son of a duke, the new baby is allowed to use one of his fathers lesser titles as a courtesy title. He will one day inherit the Duke of Sussex title from his father. The baby could be made a prince, but only if the queen intervenes. The queen stepped in to make his cousins George, Charlotte, and Louis, princes and princesses, since they are the children of a future king. Hes the First Multiracial Royal Baby in Recent History And the first of American and British ancestry. His birth, on top of the typical fanfare over a royal newborn, carries the added symbolism of Britains changing monarchy. U.K. population projections show that mixed-race is the fastest growing ethnic group in the country, and will soon be its largest minority group. He Weighed 7 Pounds, 3 Ounces A post from the Duke and Duchess of Sussexs newly minted Instagram account announced the birth via social media. We are pleased to announce that Their Royal Highnesses The Duke and Duchess of Sussex welcomed their firstborn child in the early morning on May 6th, 2019. Their Royal Highnesses son weighs 7lbs. 3oz, the post read. Story continues Prince Harry Was Present for the Birth The official press announcement released by Buckingham Palace on Monday states that the birth occurred at 5:26 a.m. local time, and Prince Harry was present for it. Parting further with tradition, Harry made the in-person birth announcement by himself. Meghan, understandably, did not want to face the worlds media mere hours after giving birth, as her sister-in-law Kate Middleton has done with her three children. Harry greeted a select group of reporters to make the announcement outside Windsor Castle. Emerging excitedly from the castle, where he and Meghan live nearby in Frogmore Cottage, Harry repeatedly rubbed his hands together and barely contained a grin. Im very excited to announce that Meghan and myself had a baby boy, early this morninga very healthy boy, mother and baby are doing incredibly well, Harry said. Then, breaking out into giddy laughter: Its been the most amazing experience I can ever have possibly imagined. How any woman does what they do is beyond comprehension, but were both absolutely thrilled and so grateful to all the love and support from everybody out there. Its been amazing. So, we just wanted to share this with everybody. His Parents Were Considering Other Names Other names allegedly in contention were James, Alexander, Arthur, andin homage to the maiden name of Harrys late mother Princess DianaSpencer. On Monday, Harry said the couple were still thinking about names. The baby is a little bit overdue, so we've had a little bit of time to think about it, Harry conceded. Thats the next bit... we'll be seeing you guys in probably two days time... as a family, to be able to share it, and so everyone can see the baby. Currently, the most popular baby name for a boy in the U.S. is Liam, while Oliver takes the top spot in the U.K. Its Rumored Meghan Had a Home Birth It was not revealed whether Meghan had the baby at home or at a hospital, or whether her labor was induced. Rumors have circulated throughout her pregnancy that the duchess planned on a home birth at the 10-bedroomed Frogmore Cottage. Home births account for only around 2.3 per cent of births in England. Plans surrounding Archies birth were purposefully kept private, a personal decision made by the royal couple. Meghan and Harry DIDN'T Know the Sex of the Baby AHEAD OF TIME I havent been in many births. This is definitely my first birth, but it was amazing, absolutely incredible, Harry said. And as I said, Im so incredibly proud of my wife and as every father and parent would ever say, your baby is absolutely amazing, this little thing is absolutely to die for, so Im just over the moon. The Royal Family Is Thrilled They congratulated the new parents while scattered at various international charity events. William and Kate spoke about their new nephew while attending the launch of the Kings Cup regatta in London on Tuesday. William said he was obviously thrilled, absolutely thrilled, and obviously looking forward to seeing them in the next few days when things have quieted down. The father of three added that he was pleased and glad to welcome Prince Harry into the sleep deprivation society that is parenting. William said he looks forward to seeing the new parents when things have quietened down. Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall were congratulated on the birth of their fourth grandchild while abroad in Germany on a four-day trip. Charles told reporters in Berlin: We couldn't be more delighted at the news and we're looking forward to meeting the baby when we return. The Buckingham Palace announcement listed the usual family members as delighted with the news, but also included some unexpected names. Rounding out the list on Harrys side are Lady Jane Fellowes, Lady Sarah McCorquodale, and Earl SpencerPrincess Dianas siblings. The elder Spencers inclusion follows their participation in the Royal wedding. Lady Jane Fellowes did a reading at the nuptials in honor of her sister. Meghans mother, Doria Ragland, was also included in the announcement, which stated she was overjoyed by the arrival of her first grandchild, and was with her daughter at Frogmore Cottage following the birth. Dorias inclusion signals an unprecedented embrace of Meghans mother in the royal family. Read more at The Daily Beast. Got a tip? Send it to The Daily Beast here BUENOS AIRES, May 9 (Reuters) - An Argentine lawmaker from the northern province of La Rioja was wounded on Thursday and an aide was killed in a shooting about a block from the National Congress in downtown Buenos Aires. Congressman Hector Olivares was shot three times by two attackers early Thursday morning. His adviser, Miguel Yadon, was also shot and died at the scene. The director of emergency services in the city of Buenos Aires, Alberto Crescenti, said in televised statements that Olivares was in "serious condition" after undergoing surgery at a Buenos Aires hospital. Officials have not released information on the suspects' identities or a possible motive for the attack. Security Minister Patricia Bullrich is expected to hold a news conference later Thursday. "There are no words to explain what happened. I hope he recovers and can clarify what happened," former Argentina Vice President Julio Cobos said on his Twitter account. (Reporting by Walter Bianchi and Jorge Otaola; Writing by Cassandra Garrison; Editing by Jeffrey Benkoe) World stock markets fell again on Thursday as Washington and Beijing worked to avert the collapse of negotiations to end their trade war. After months in which Washington and Beijing appeared to be moving closer to an agreement, that rosy scenario looked almost out of reach as American officials announced an increase in tariffs and accused their Chinese counterparts of backsliding in the talks. During a campaign appearance in Florida Thursday night, Trump said China "broke the deal" in ways that merited higher tariffs. Chinese Commerce Ministry spokesman Gao Feng countered by saying China had honored its commitments and "has already prepared for all possible situations," suggesting likely countermeasures to new or higher US tariffs. Global markets tanked on these developments, with leading bourses in Asia and Europe losing around one percent or more. The US was also on track for a bruising session, but cut losses around midday after Trump told reporters a deal with China was still possible, even as he indicated he was also happy to impose new tariff measures on Friday. "I am different than a lot of people. I happen to think that tariffs, for our country, are very powerful," Trump said. The S&P 500 finished at 2,870.72, down 0.3 percent, its fourth straight decline. A note from Eurasia Group said the Chinese were unlikely to give enough ground during the two-day session to satisfy the American side and that the stock market's reaction will be important in determining what happens next. "Trump has not yet been fully tested by equities," Eurasia Group said. "This may change as investors gauge the seriousness of his threats -- both to raise tariff rates, and to impose tariffs on the remainder of US imports from China." "A major stock downturn, as well as signs of further distress for US farmers and other parts of his political base, will make him more inclined to look for an off-ramp with (Chinese President Xi Jinping)." Story continues - Key figures around 2050 GMT - New York - Dow: DOWN 0.5 percent at 25,828.36 (close) New York - S&P 500: DOWN 0.3 percent at 2,870.72 (close) New York - Nasdaq: DOWN 0.4 percent at 7,910.59 (close) London - FTSE 100: DOWN 0.9 percent at 7,207.41 (close) Frankfurt - DAX 30: DOWN 1.7 percent at 11,973.92 (close) Paris - CAC 40: DOWN 1.9 percent at 5,313.16 (close) EURO STOXX 50: DOWN 2.0 percent at 3,347.71 (close) Tokyo - Nikkei 225: DOWN 0.9 percent at 21,402.13 (close) Hong Kong - Hang Seng: DOWN 2.4 percent at 28,311.07 (close) Shanghai - Composite: DOWN 1.5 percent at 2,850.95 (close) Euro/dollar: UP at $1.1218 from $1.1192 at 2100 GMT Pound/dollar: UP at $1.3011 from $1.3006 Dollar/yen: DOWN at 109.71 yen from 110.10 yen Oil - Brent Crude: UP 2 cents at $70.39 per barrel Oil - West Texas Intermediate: DOWN 42 cents at $61.70 per barrel burs-jmb/dg Photo: iStock The number of crime incidents in Atlanta saw an overall bump last month, after a previous decline, according to data from SpotCrime, which collects data from police agencies and validated sources. Incidents rose by about 12%, up from 1,625 in March to 1,833 in April. Theft and assault reports increased the most from the previous month. Theft rose from 781 reported incidents in March to 945 in April. Assault incidents rose from 189 to 221 for the month, or about a 16% increase. While somewhat smaller categories, there was also a considerable percentage increase last month in robbery, up from 145 incidents per month to 163, and in vandalism, up from zero to one. Robbery reports have decreased since the same month last year, while vandalism incidents have declined. Among the few types of offenses that saw a downturn last month, burglary reports dropped from 495 to 493. When it comes to crime patterns in different areas of the city, the Downtown, Grant Park and Old Fourth Ward saw the largest increase from March to April. Ormewood Park, Atlanta University Center and Peachtree Heights West also saw considerable percentage increases in crime offenses for the month, although they continue to have lower overall crime levels. Tuesdays, Mondays and Thursdays had the most reported crimes last month. The largest increase from the previous month occurred on Tuesdays, Mondays and Thursdays, while incidents on Fridays, Sundays and Saturdays went down. Comparing times of day, after midnight, early afternoon and early morning saw the most crime last month on average each day. To report a crime in progress or life-threatening emergency, call 911. To report a non-urgent crime or complaint, contact your local police department. Head to SpotCrime to get free local crime alerts in your area. This story was created automatically using local crime data, then reviewed by an editor. Click here for more about our data sources and local crime methodology. Got thoughts about what we're doing? Go here to share your feedback. By Michael Taylor KUALA LUMPUR, May 9 (Thomson Reuters Foundation) - The next Australian government must prioritize laws to ban schools from expelling or discriminating against gay students and teachers, LGBT+ advocates said on Thursday, amid an election campaign marred by homophobic slurs. Last year Prime Minister Scott Morrison said he planned to ban private or religious schools from expelling students on the basis of their sexuality, but legislation on religious freedom and sexual discrimination became bogged down by political infighting in parliament. But with Australians preparing to go to the polls on May 18, LGBT+ activists said this was an opportunity to strengthen protections and get legislation on schools over the line. "We need to make sure that the commitment to protect students from discrimination in religious schools ... is implemented," Anna Brown, chief executive office at Equality Australia, told the Thomson Reuters Foundation. Australia, which overwhelmingly voted in favor of same-sex marriage in 2017, has a number of broad anti-discrimination protections but there are still exemptions for religious schools and services. "Kids shouldn't be discriminated against for being LGBTQI, regardless of what school they're in," said Joel Clark, a campaigner at Amnesty Australia. Despite Australia being relatively liberal on LGBT+ issues compared with other nations in Asia-Pacific, the election campaign has been marred by derogatory and inappropriate comments by several campaigning candidates, gay activists said. Some candidates have linked same-sex marriage to pedophilia and argued against gay adoption and surrogacy, urged Christians to join a party to stop gay people from being elected, and made rape jokes on social media. "It has been quite shocking this election - there has been a number of candidates that have resigned or been disendorsed by parties for their offensive or inappropriate comments," said Brown. Story continues "We are seeing a general decline in the level of public debate when it comes to the candidates being selected." A new government should also look to position Australia as a leader in the Asia-Pacific for supporting LGBT+ rights, gay advocates said. Socially conservative attitudes prevail across Asia, and deep-rooted biases have hamstrung progress on gay rights. Myanmar, Malaysia and Singapore ban sexual relationships between men, and Indonesia has seen an increase in raids targeting LGBT+ people in recent years. Brunei sparked a global outcry last month with plans to bring in laws that punished sodomy, adultery and rape with death, including by stoning, although it later backed down. Australia had called for Brunei to abandon the law changes. While respecting a country's autonomy, Australia can do more to support LGBT+ and other marginalized people in the region, LGBT+ and health campaigners said. "We would expect the Australian government to be lobbying and working with any other country to ensure they're abiding by international laws and standards that we have agreed to and expect our neighbors and allies to uphold," said Clark. (Reporting by Michael Taylor @MickSTaylor; Editing by Belinda Goldsmith Please credit the Thomson Reuters Foundation, the charitable arm of Thomson Reuters, that covers humanitarian news, women's and LGBT+ rights, human trafficking, property rights, and climate change. Visit http://news.trust.org) BAGHDAD, May 9 (Reuters) - A suicide bomber killed several people in a marketplace in the Sadr City district of Baghdad, the Iraqi military said on Thursday. It did not provide precise casualty figures. The bomber was surrounded by security forces before detonating an explosive belt, the Baghdad Operations Command said in a statement. (Reporting by Ahmed Aboulenein; editing by John Stonestreet) Logo of jester cap with thought bubble. Image source: The Motley Fool. Barrick Gold Corporation (NYSE: GOLD) Q1 2019 Earnings Call May. 8, 2019, 11:00 a.m. ET Contents: Prepared Remarks Questions and Answers Call Participants Prepared Remarks: Operator Ladies and gentlemen, thank you for standing by. This is the conference operator. Welcome to the Barrick 2019 First Quarter Results Conference Call. During the presentation, all participants are in listen-only mode. Following the presentation, we will conduct a question-and-answer session. (Operator Instructions) As a reminder, this conference call is being recorded and the replay will be available on Barrick's website later today May 8th 2019. I would now like to turn the conference over to Mark Bristow, CEO for Barrick. Please go ahead. Mark Bristow -- President and Chief Executive Officer Thank you very much and I'll start again and good morning ladies and gentlemen. Welcome to this -- our first results presentation as a merged Barrick and Randgold. And as I'm sure you would have already noticed and if you had followed some of the interviews this morning, we've certainly got off to a good start. The first quarter's performance was both positive and productive with a strong across the Board delivery from all the operations, topped by the transformative and long-overdue creation of the Nevada joint venture. It's worth noting again that the Barrick-Randgold merger was a very strategic one. I think it's important that I stress this. Designed to produce a company capable of rising above an industry in disarray, to become its most valued gold business. In the short time, the two companies have been together we've made significant progress toward the goals we set when we shared the deal with you and our investors and other stakeholders. But I would also stress that speed is not necessarily of the essence when you're playing a long game. Both Barrick and Randgold were built on the solid foundation of discovery, development, and early acquisitions and that future focus vision still directs our strategy today. Story continues So, whether you're a fund manager or a Finance Minister, don't look to us for instant gratification or easy pickings. The stakeholders who will reap our rewards are those who share our long-term vision and invest in or work with us as partners and that's really our commitment. And, in fact, this industry needs that to be able to recover its rightful place and become relevant again as an industry you can invest in. Please take note of the cautionary statement as presented on the screen and for those who would like to read them, they are in your pack. I'll start as usual with a look at our health and safety record, which although void of fatalities, remains an area of business which needs improvement and certainly it has my focus. While Africa held steady, we have more to do in both North and Latin America and this is receiving a lot of attention not only for me, but from the executive team as well as the mine management. It's an issue that is of fundamental importance to a heavy engineering budget business such as mining and we are committed to creating an injury-free working environment across the group. Similarly, the cardinal importance we have assigned to sustainability demands that we care for the environment and our communities around our mines. We are reviewing all our community-led investments to ensure that they will create real value for the life of the mine and beyond. We are also addressing the legacy challenges in some countries. In the meantime, it's pleasing to note that there were no class one environmental incidents in Q1 and that all sites in Africa and in the Middle East have completed their ISO 14001 recertification or surveillance audits and with Latin and North American audits due in Q2 and Q3. Turning now to the operations, these are the highlights of the quarter. The quarter-on-quarter operational comparisons are obviously skewed by the merger, but it's important to note that all the operations delivered on plan and even on a per share basis, the adjusted earnings were significantly higher. We have made rapid progress with integrating the organization, streamlining processes, and ensuring that all sites have the geological, operational, and technical capability to meet their business objectives. As we reported earlier, the group has been divided into three geographical regions; each with a very strong executive and small, but effective, support team. In line with my belief that people should be where they make the most significant contribution to delivering against our strategic objectives, we have reduced the Toronto corporate office to around 70 people. Each and every one of those people has an important real and focused role in Barrick's business and we will be continuing to refine and rationalize our support structure with a focus now shifting to the non-mine site locations outside Toronto. We're also making rapid progress with the establishment of the Nevada joint venture. There are a few pronunciations I'm still working on as you all make up when I go through this presentation. But for obvious reasons has been named and today we announced the formal name of this joint venture. As you know we are incorporating the joint venture into an organization into a company and that company will be called Nevada Gold Mines. And we're going to disclose the logo just now, a little while later. And by the way, we didn't employ anyone to do this. We did it ourselves. And a little bit more as I say about that a little later. The organizational structures are being finalized and we're working toward realizing the synergies and cost reduction opportunities and those have not changed. I'll talk you through the other highlights -- I will talk you through the other highlights on this slide when we get to their respective operations. Looking at the operating results. Gold production was up which was great and costs were a little better. That means better than what we thought, which we is down -- or what we planned for. And copper the copper assets all made a real contribution to the bottom-line and they were in line on production and slightly lower on the costs. So as I pointed out to some of the journalists I've already interviewed with today is that apart from the closing assets every single other assets in Barrick made a contribution to the bottom-line, which is a fantastic way to start a business like this. And every way you cut the results, it's a solid set of results that came in ahead of market consensus as you would have noticed. And net cash from the operations is up 27% supporting the payment of a dividend and I think it's also critical is that we can afford our dividend. And when you look at the balance sheet, the $500-odd million that came in from Randgold is still there and it's been -- it's offset on the net cash position. So again, we managed this business. There was cost as you know in this quarter on the transaction, but all-in-all the financial results were at best described as robust. And when you look at the net debt, its -- we now can boast a strong balance sheet relative to the rest of our peer group. We start our -- review of operations in Nevada where all our operations have been integrated into a single complex under a single Executive General Manager to wheel each operations manager reports. While there were -- there will be further changes as you would imagine within the -- as we roll-out the Nevada joint venture, this principle will be carried over in the new structure and that's quite important. And I think some of you -- some of the analysts have looked for more clarity. You'll see that we desegregated Cortez and Goldstrike in our numbers today. We'll continue to do that working toward being more transparent and allowing you to really understand our business and manage it. And what Ive always done as you know in my career is my intention is to give you an understanding of our business, so that you get the model right. I'm not intending to let you try and guess what our business plan is. We're going to give it to you and we're going to work on getting more granular as we go along. At Cortez production is transitioning as we messaged from as far as last year. The open pit -- the high-grade open pit what we call CHOP -- Cortez Hill Open Pit more toward the underground and lower-grade open pits and that has impacted on our results. It was always messaged that way and so it shouldn't be a surprise to anyone. That shift to underground and higher grades will continue all the way out to 2022 and we've already started to see the improvement and the bigger contribution from the underground, which we call CHUG -- Cortez Hills Underground Operations. And again, we've got the Deep South not to be confused with South Deep, which will continue to expand that contribution. So Goldstrike's production was down because of the preferential treatment given to Cortez higher grade underground ore relative to the previous quarter. So again, we are not working quarter-on-quarter, but this is our plan because we have to replace the higher-grade open pit ore and so there was an offset and again that ore that we stockpiled from Goldstrike will go through the rest this quarter. But again, we saw improvements in throughput and in recoveries from the TCM circuit at the autoclave from Goldstrike so that was good. And then Turquoise Ridge achieved a record production in the month of March mining and hoisting more than 80,000 tons and Turquoise Ridge-Twin Creeks combination is a very important part of the Nevada synergies that we are working toward. And the third shaft, pre-collar construction for the Turquoise Ridge. The third shaft was completed and pre-sink activities have started. And our capital team is fully engaged with the contract that to make sure that we keep that project on track. Now moving back, voila, there is the logo. It's about as good as we're going to do on the launch. And how the -- look at the Nevada Joint Venture, which we expect to get its final sign-off at the end of this current quarter. In the meantime as I noted earlier, we are making exceptional progress in restructuring this new business. And this is the new logo which we selected in a democratic way, sort of, consulted and democratic way and with our colleagues from Newmont Goldcorp. And as the map shows the properties Elko comprised of is; Cortez, Goldstrike, Turquoise Ridge and Goldrush from Barrick side; and Carlin, Twin Creeks, Phoenix, Long Canyon and Lone Tree from Newmont Goldcorp side. And as also has been reported Barrick will operate and own 61.5% of the business. And it's worth noting that the mines making up the joint venture produced in excess of 4 million ounces of gold in 2018 making it the single largest producer of gold as a complex in the world and significantly more than the next biggest contributor. And I think that's and then the Olympiad Complex at Prokopyevsk in Siberia. I must say that the Nevada mines is being structured in a great spirit of cooperation between Barrick and Newmont Goldcorp and excitement as well not only about the new business, but also the opportunities that this business is going to unlock. Somebody said the other day that -- this is a deal that was tried so many times and but one thing that was always consistent that everyone always recognized the logic of it although it didn't happen. And so it's very pleasing for us to be part of ultimately getting to that point. In this regard I'd also like to draw your attention to the first new opportunity even before weve closed the transaction and that is the Cove McCoy joint venture bullet hole intersection that we announced recently with our partners and our partners at Premier. And as you can see, the -- as I'm sure you noted, that's been a very significant intersection. Our geologists are quite excited about exactly that bullet hole. And what's important about it, is it's in a different part. It's not in the traditional sort of Carlin-style trends that post the other big deposits in Nevada. And it's also, definitely, highlights the significance and opportunity that we believe that this joint venture will continue to unlock in Nevada. I mean, I'm a geologist and it's really an amazing place. It's like the [indiscernible] was in the sort of 80s, 70s and 80s. There's some very significant -- I mean, you draw intersections there that I've never seen before. So -- and I think, this just reinforces the potential of Nevada and ready -- reinforces my and Barrick's commitment and determination to increase and maintain a dominant presence in this geological address. At the Goldrush project the twin exploration decline development accelerated during the quarter and each has now advanced some 680 meters out of the planned 4,000 meters. A dedicated manager -- we've restructured all the management across the Barrick Group, but specifically for Goldrush we now have a dedicated manager on the feasibility side of Goldrush and we put the decline responsibility under the underground manager at the Cortez mine. We will also continue to coordinate the Goldrush-Fourmile exploration efforts, consolidating the geological models to further understanding of the mineralized corridor between the two and I'm going to show you a slide just now. But there's -- we've got eight drill rigs at Fourmile with those eight yellow circles on the slide. As you know Fourmile has initially been excluded from the Nevada joint venture until the full extent of the mineralization has been determined and the feasibility work has been completed. And then under the agreement, we have, on certain conditions, of course, the ability to roll it back into the joint venture. We are also been reviewing the existing geotechnical data on all of Barrick's mines, but with a particular emphasis on the operations in Nevada and Goldrush. In the case of Goldrush-Fourmile and all of the Nevada underground mines, we believe this will help us to optimize final mining layups and also the mining methods and we're quite excited about the opportunity. What's happened in Nevada is, because of the ground conditions and they're very variable is that, both on the Newmont Goldcorp side and on the Barrick side, we tended to go to the worst possible rock integrity and design accordingly, but that's quite variable and there's some very competent parts of Nevada, which definitely support that long-haul open skirting with [indiscernible] and with that comes very significant deficiencies. So we're expecting to change a lot of the mining methodology, both within the Barrick assets and particularly Goldrush, as well as in some of the Newmont Goldcorp assets. And there's an example and I thought you'd appreciate this. This is the Goldrush-Fourmile plot of the drilling results to-date with the hot colors being -- sorry, red above 5 grams a tonne. Average grade for total resource about 15 million ounces now, including inferred for Goldrush and we've just started declaring the initial resources out of Fourmile, as you would see in the documentation. But you can see the extent of this mineralization is continuous and it's really is a world-class occurrence. In drilling, as you saw in the previous slide, is ongoing. And as far as Goldrush goes, we are now starting to extend the drilling on the edges of the ore body and the big focus in Fourmile is to continue to build out of the geological model. And then, once we start getting that quoting together we will start working toward infilling it in. And then, I think, you'll start seeing some consistent contributions to the growth in the declared inventories whether it's in resources or reserves. Moving then on to Canada. Hemlo finished pretty much on target for the quarter, despite the challenging start to the year and with the aim of making Hemlo a Tier 2 asset, its team is currently optimizing the mine design and schedule, based on quite different geological modeling and updating, which we've been doing and we've done a lot of geotechnical work again at Hemlo. And while it's still early days in that project, the potential to bring cash flow forward and add reserves to Hemlo is very encouraging. And so, whatever happens going forward, Hemlo is going to be a different asset and the challenge to the team is, can we make it into a Tier 1 asset, which then we would be -- it would be a keeper in our portfolio. So where we've had normally, what we have in our portfolio is Tier 1, Tier 2 and then we have assets that we are looking to realize and give to somebody else to run. Hemlo is a strategic asset, and that it benefits more because of the tax shield that we have in this country. So it always will provided, we can create positive cash flow, it always delivers more value than an asset that doesn't have that sort of tax protection. So now we come to the biggest challenge of all and that is for me to try and pronounce Pueblo Viejo. How did I go? In the Dominican Republic, everyone's been sort of trying to get me to practice this and my assistant actually wrote the phonetics down. Yes. We need -- well, we've got some Spanish people. That doesn't help much either. But anyway, Pueblo Viejo posted another good performance, despite lower grades, which were offset by improvements in recovery and throughput, enabling the mine to beat its production plans, which was very pleasing. As with other Latin American operations, there's been an increase in focus on mineral resource management. Now all our assets have mineral resource managers already. They also almost all of them have different management. So we've done a lot of change in the organization, not necessarily a change out, but changed around and we've moved people around and given people a different focus and it's brought a lot of energy to our team. And all indications so far is that there's significant potential to convert some 7 million ounces in the short term of measured and indicated resources to probable reserve with still a lot more to come. And PV has rarely been an exciting discovery for us. We knew it was a good asset and we did the due diligence, but certainly the more we look at it as a team, the more opportunity we've seen. And a lot of it driven by the scoping studies to support a plant expansion. Again, as you know the Barrick team has been talking about expansion at PV for some time. And we've now firmly set on a flow sheet where we believe we can deliver a plan that meets all our investment criteria and we will be able to support plus 800,000 ounce production profile way out after 2022. And it'll be a big project costing some $1.3 billion and we are very excited about this. And the other next step of course is we expect to complete the pre-feasibility study this year in fact in quarter three and then the full feasibility study during next year. So again an exciting growth project for us. Despite operational and management concerns as I shared with you last time we chatted, Veladero in Argentina also had a satisfactory quarter after a poor start in the year. And there's been a big focus on efficiencies and cost have come down considerably on the back of business improvement initiatives. And again, the gap in Veladero is that we've got a lot of work to do to catch up and infill the drill spacing. The drill spacing is a bit wide still and so you end up with surprises both good and bad. And as you know and those people who know me, the one thing I'm fully committed to is we take the risks out of grade by drilling the orebodies properly. So we've got a big program in Veladero to weve redone, weve reloged all the core. We've now got the drill programs running together shorten up the drill spacings and that will give us a lot more confidence in our plan. We've got about six years of life there. And then the big focus has shifted to looking for more, because we'd like to extend that and we haven't got a lot to deliver to be able to take that asset to a Tier 1 category. As I pointed out, there's been a strong drive on brownfields and new mine greenfields exploration to add ounces and extend the mine plan and the drilling programs have been ongoing. And we put some of our really top people down into South America to drive those. Exploration teams are also evaluating targets across the Frontera District around Veladero and also further south at Del Carmen we've -- and Rojo Grande we've got some really good intersections. And again, it's Veladero look-alike target slightly lower grade, but still significant and better infrastructure than what Veladero had when we first discovered it. In Papua New Guinea, Porgera had a good quarter despite again challenges rolling out after the earthquake of last year and Porgera also has the potential to be a Tier 1 asset. But it really needs additional investment for more drilling programs as well as infrastructure and equipment capital to enable it to reduce its operating cost. It's really been quite a neglected asset. It's a real geological Tier 1 opportunity. Yes, this mine has been operating for 28 years. And from our assessment of it, it certainly has got another at least 22 year. So it's not an insignificant asset in our portfolio. As you know Porgera operate in a difficult jurisdiction and like our African mines has to work hard to secure its social license. And those people who were at the AGM yesterday would have experienced what has become quite sort of a repeated thing. Again, I believe we have the skills to be able to work and change that risk profile at least with our relationships with the communities. Big focus for Porgera is the renewal of the special mining license and we are fully engaged successfully on this. We've had the first round of public consultation which went very well. We are engaged with the Prime Minister and his administrators. As you know there's a lot of dynamic politics in PNG at the moment, so we are managing the situation and working to continue the process of renewing that license. We cross now to Africa where our Loulo-Gounkoto complex in Mali met its guidance as its other operations. We're paying a lot of attention to replacing the reserves that are depleted by mining and that's with those assets are both Loulo-Gounkoto and Kibali as they had a really good run. And so far, we've been able to extend the life of the mine and there's still significant opportunity in the immediate vicinity of Loulo and Gounkoto. Loulo and Gounkoto are located on part of a very significant geological province, which we refer to as the Kedougou-Kenieba Inlier. And in fact the structure that hosts that mineralization including of course the Sadiola Enga assets in the north and [Indiscernible] gold assets in the south. It's a very long structure to call the Senegal mining and share and we control 70 kilometers of this truck of that share just within the Loulo-Gounkoto mining licenses. And additionally, we also have Bambadji on the western side of the border in Senegal and Bakolobi projects on the same structure. The Damarco (ph) belt which hosts Massawa and the Tigrinya assets are on the other side of that inlier as you can see on that slide. At Gounkoto specifically exploration is highlighted the potential for a material contribution to the underground project below the super pit and we're working now on drilling that out and designing the interface between the open pit, the super pit and the higher-grade underground resources below that pit. The Yalea structure is also delivering significant extensions to the high grade deeper orebodies and are drilling and we've taken a step back as well and looked just it's worth remembering that Loulo or Yalea was this initial pit, it was about 1.5 million ounces and there's no way -- and we didn't appreciate what we would discover below that pit, slightly removed. This is slightly different orebody. And so, we've gone back to that structure, that's the orebody that you call the purple patch which really made the Loulo-Gounkoto project. And we've taken a step back. As you see there's about a 7 kilometers stripe. Outside the Yalea drilling there's not much information below 100 meters below surface, so we've been modeling the geology and looking to extend our search below the current drilling dips. And again we think that there's opportunity to make additional discoveries. Back then to Senegal and Massawa, as you know Massawa is currently in the process of applying for its mining license and the related permitting to be able to start to the development of the mine. And at the same time we're still exploring at Massawa. We've got drill rigs running, looking to add to the reserve base. Currently the reserves are just shy of 3 million-ounce hurdle rate to make it a Tier II asset in our portfolio. And back in the Central Africa and the Democratic Republic of Congo, Kibali made another strong start to the year as you would've seen in our press releases, achieving a record for tonnes hoisted from the underground shaft in March which is very significant for us and also being able to maintain recovery at the nameplate rate which is important. Lower river levels during the dry season impacted on the availability of hydropower and that drove the costs up slightly. Like Loulo-Gounkoto, Kibali's lease exploration program continues to deliver sustained mineral resource and reserve growth and latest results show for instance up in the top left hand of the diagram, the opportunity to coalesce Sessenge open pit and Gorumbwa open pit with the up depth extensions of the 9,000 lode and to potentially a super pit like we've got in Gounkoto. And definition drilling recently on the 11,000 lode, which you see is the down dip extension that has really highlighted a significant potential for that orebody. And what's more is it really encourages one because we keep finding new -- so Kibali is like a bundle of cigars and we keep finding these new cigars on the way down and we -- there's a mine that still has a lot of legs in. And again -- it's already a 10-year life and $1000 gold price and we have every expectation for that to continue to be replaced. And then on the greater sort of host structure which we refer to as KZ structure, we have many more targets and potential to continue to add reserves and then in particular open the pitiable resources and reserves and that really brings -- keeps the flexibility of Kibali, its mining flexibility if we can continue to ensure that we've got some open pit material that will support the high-grade underground reserves. Zooming out ,now a little further we feel see a vast gold district which we will refer to as the Congo Craton which extends from the Northeastern part of the DRC down into Tanzania. And that brings me to the subject of Tanzania and Acacia and we continue to engage with the governments and the Board of Acacia regarding the standoff that they've got themselves into. And the long impasse has already destroyed a great deal of value and getting the conflicted parties to see that at this stage almost any solution is better than none. And that's proving difficult, I might add. Nevertheless as you know we are full of commitment and tenacity and then I've got no doubt that we will eventually get there. And as I've said before just about any solution is a good one for all stakeholders. We are engaged and somebody -- there was a rumour that we have stepped back. We are still engaged and seeking to settle key documents and move this process is forward in a manner which is acceptable to all the stakeholders. Just briefly, this is a snapshot of our other mines. Tongon was again challenged by mechanical mishaps and power supply issues and just missed its production target although, it's still within its guidance and we're comfortable with that. At Kalgoorlie, attributable gold production was 5% lower at 55,000 ounces and compared to that previous quarter and primarily due to combination of lower grade and more throughput being a result of some weather issues during the quarter. Lagunas Norte's production declined in line with expectations as the mine ages and it will be put on care and maintenance toward the end of this year with the objective that we'll continue to explore. And there's a lot of sulfide and carboniferous material reserves potential and the idea is -- the question is can we delineate enough for Lagunas to become a asset within our portfolio? Or will we only get to a point where it's actually -- we're able to realize that asset? And that's really the focus for Lagunas Norte going forward. And then Morila is moving toward closure and Golden Sunlight is largely ceased mining with its last mall run scheduled for later this month. Elsewhere across the Barrick portfolio, the copper mines holded reasonably well with Lumwana and Jabal Sayid both exceeding our expectations and all the mines making a contribution to the bottom line. In fact, all the assets, as I said earlier, except for the rightsizing assets made a contribution to the bottom line. As highlighted here, gold mining is all about owning high quality ounces. Both Barrick and Randgold have a history of making world-class grassroots exploration discoveries as well as major reserve and resource additions to acquire assets as shown here. And maybe because of the recent past you forget this, but Barrick made some very, very significant discoveries in its time, and the geological exploration D&A is still very much alive in the country, and we've certainly contributed to that and contributing our team. And this long life high grade reserve base is supported by an intense company focus on mineral resource management, which we've now embedded across the organization. And as I indicated, when we announced the merger is we are shifting from a focus on cash flow or high grading assets to really -- and so when that happens we tend to end -- it was the last thing to do, as I've said before, but now that we've got the balance sheet that's very manageable, we need a shift back to being driven by our orebodies, the optimal orebody management. And because when you just focus on grade, you neglect the discipline of efficiency and cost. And so that's what we're doing now. As we are shifting that back to focusing on efficiencies and cost, of course, the orebody modeling itself. And that doesn't mean to say that we're not focused and cash flow like somebody picked up incorrectly this morning. We want to have the same cash flow as in the past, but just offer lower grade base. In other words we want to focus on bringing our cut-off grades down, and a good example is Turquoise Ridge where we currently are running at over 9 grams a tonne cutoff grade. That's more than double Randgold's reserve rate, and we are absolutely clear that we will get that done significantly. First target is two dots down, so that's 7 and then we believe we can get it down to five and below that. And that really opens up a whole new set of ounces in the reserve and a great tonnage curve. And again, in Nevada has many of those opportunities and they're driven by the synergies that the joint venture will bring. Everything we do in Barrick is designed to create value and to properly evaluate our assets, we have flexed them across the curve you see here. At the base, our exploration programs and the projects that will deliver future value. In the middle are our Tier 1 and Tier 2 assets, and those which have the potential to acquire that status, as I've discussed in my presentation. And the flag that at the top holds those assets, which in terms of our strategic criteria could do better with different owners as we do not necessarily have the leverage left in them to add value, but they don't have the leverage and that's what mining business is all about is. Can we -- where do we -- where can we best allocate our time to lever that assets to exploit the optionality of the market pricing as well as the geological potential. That does not mean that any of those assets do not offer a value, and in fact apart from the closure size of us as I already said, we have no leaders in our portfolio. Every one of them made a contribution to the bottom line. Preparations to bring some of these assets to account have already started, and I believe we will be able to deliver a substantial part of the process by next year as indicated when we presented the merger transaction initially. So given our solid operational performance for the first quarter, Barrick I'm absolutely convinced is back and on track. And it's on track to deliver against its plans for the year and beyond. However, when one looks at mine plans and replacement rates, it is clear that the industry as a whole is not in good shape, and I've been saying that for some time. And again, we see the industry touring with survival style merges and acquisitions, and again neglecting the requirement to continue to invest in the future of our industry. And so, one thing I'm sure of is that we are good to go, and I must say it's been an absolute privilege to work with the team in Barrick and to see the response and the agility out of those three teams as we deal with and we've certainly still got challenges, but also you've seen the results of that effort. And there are very few people left in Barrick, who you have to tell twice to do anything and so I'm really looking forward to continuing to build on what we've started in this company. This quarter has seen a great start, and I'm confident that we are absolutely well on our way to achieving our strategic objective of becoming the world's most valued gold-mining business, and I say that with a focus on valued, value or valuable and that gets back again to that conversation we had with Catherine, not this Catherine but the other Catherine yesterday at the AGM. Because valued means that everyone looks at Barrick and says that's the company you want to be part. That's the company you want to stop and that's the company would like to work for, and we already believe that people that run it act like owners and are absolutely committed to delivering a sustainable returns not only for its shareholders, but all other stakeholders associated with this. So, thank you very much for your attention, and we'd be delighted to take any questions you might have. And Jenny, I'm not sure how you want to manage this. Operator -- President and Chief Executive Officer Start with the room. Mark Bristow -- President and Chief Executive Officer Start with the room. Okay. All right. Well, there we are. Questions and Answers: Operator We will begin the question-and-answer session. (Operator Instructions) As callers join the queue, we will take questions from the room first. Mark Bristow -- President and Chief Executive Officer We also ask that before asking your question, please introduce yourself. Greg Barnes -- TD. Mark or Catherine -- Analyst It's Greg Barnes from TD. Mark or Catherine, there was no discussion in this presentation about the synergies in Nevada. You've had more time to look at that. You promised extremely large numbers, $500 million right out of the gate. Has your thinking changed? Could you -- are you prepared to give us more thoughts on where you think that can go on, how the numbers would evolve over the next several years? Mark Bristow -- President and Chief Executive Officer The short answer is it hasn't changed, and the second point is we'll tell you when we close. We'll give you more color. I mean, we are working on it. So what we've got is work streams on that, but there's a lot of work to do. I mean, the whole combination -- it's been exciting to see the consensus among both teams about being able to deliver on those synergies. There have been some synergies that are not going to be as good as what we thought as we get into the reeds around some of the operational -- underground operations, but at the same time we discovered new opportunities, which will be able to offset that. So we're comfortable with our target of getting to that $4.7 billion NPV of the synergies. Catherine Raw -- Executive Managing Director To give you some color, subpar management is one that is coming out better than we anticipated and being able to look at what their feeds are versus ours and being able to maximize, so those are the sort of things that we--re focusing on now. Mark Bristow -- President and Chief Executive Officer And again I think we only get the full value of this combined team once we close, right now there's been a massive amount of work on permitting and being prepared to put the permit applications in to be able to transport and change the way, there's been an enormous amount of work on the whole supply chain procurement, effectiveness and efficiencies and just the people. So we've now got a management team sorted out. Everyone's got a place and the leader is Greg Walker, our Head of Operations for Catherine's division. He will take on the role as Executive Managing Director, and underneath him, we again managed to balance the leadership between the Barrick and the Newmont Goldcorp people. Very well and what's even more encouraging for me is some of the Newmont Goldcorp senior general managers are retiring and we've been able to go past them collectively and find really quality younger people who want to make this their career and they've been operating in those assets for some time. So it's a really an exciting human capital opportunity as well as the actual physical mining synergies and I'm sure that we'll bring either more innovative synergies out of the business as we go along. Greg Barnes -- TD. Mark or Catherine -- Analyst I just want to follow-up your comments about the ground conditions in Nevada and the changes you're making. Is that going to speed things up underground or slow it down, or is it going to? Mark Bristow -- President and Chief Executive Officer It's a little bit of both. It's a good question. Very good. So the first thing is we need to do a lot more geotech work. So we've had the full team dedicated. We started with Goldrush. We've done Turquoise Ridge, and we've got a lot to do in the Newmont assets, but equally Newmont has come to the same conclusion. And they've recently employed some very high quality geotech engineer's, people who we know well and who will be joining our team. So it's -- collectively both sides have recognized the importance of geotech work. Where we grew up, where I grew up that's like falling off a bus. They're running deeply and South African mines the whole geotech side of mine planning, whereas, traditionally Nevada has really focused on just the lowest common denominator effectively and designing everything high cost, very conservative mine plans, and we've already in CHUG, Cortez Hills underground we've already initiated a long-haul open stopping with backfill and where our efficiencies are a whole lot better. So there's a lot of opportunity. Goldstrike as well, a lot of the parts of Goldstrike, again we feel that having done the first bit of geotech work and we're catching up with the drilling, we've redirected some of the underground drill rigs to actually drill geotech holes because it's going to be critical in the mine design. And again we feel that it might delays things a little bit initially, but that's why we're putting in those declines. Is it really exploration and evaluation? But in the long-term, it will speed things up. And I'll just give you another example. The work -- the intersections and the rock net (ph) work that we're doing on Fourmile that's a whole solidified radiated, classic radiated, Colin radiated mineral deposit, which stands up very well. So we are very encouraged by what we see from the initial intersections and definitely that mass mining, underground mining will be -- definitely be possible in the Fourmile area. And I can wrap it on before we can go to the work that has been done at Carlin underground as well, and there's a lot of work to be done there, because you know again that's technically quite a challenging underground mine. And again our work that we're doing and the design and planning we're doing, I think will come up with some opportunities. We are replanning all of Barrick's mines and we expect to do the same on the other side of the Nevada JV as well. Stephen Walker -- RBC Capital Markets. -- Analyst Mark, Stephen Walker here with RBC Capital Markets. You talked about Cortez Hills underground and the potential to take the cutoff grade from nine to seven to five grams. Mark Bristow -- President and Chief Executive Officer That's Turquoise Ridge. Stephen Walker -- RBC Capital Markets -- Analyst Turquoise Ridge, sorry. And if you look at the several analysis for underground at Goldstrike and at Cortez Hills, does the geometry of the ore deposits allow you to increase the volume, and secondly does the mining cost decline -- decline in mining cost that you're starting to look at allow you to maintain the margins, as you drop, the cutoff grade for both at Turquoise Ridge and at Goldstrike? Mark Bristow -- President and Chief Executive Officer Yeah. I think that's I mean look in Turquoise Ridge is a spectacular example of right now we've been mining and I mean the margin -- the costs that Newmont Gold Corp were charging us, to process that ore set the cutoff grade. And so, effectively a bit like in the old days in South Africa, we were mining through, 5-gram ore and leaving it behind. Ultimately, that becomes viable because you've now got it developed in the long run. But what the combination with Twin Creeks is going to do is we now are only paying for the real cost of the processing facility. And so, that drops the cost significantly. I want to say, $45. That's 1.5 gram just there. So that brings a whole lot of what we call wide areas, or areas that are developed and below the cutoff grades, suddenly become above the cutoff grades without any capital requirements as an example. So, there's an opportunity to that. And of course, you can't -- you can't apply long-haul as in stepping to narrow orebodies, but you can through a big wide orebodies and there are lots of those in Nevada. And again, so, when you look at the CHUG underground, the old CHUG underground which is flatter ore body and it was narrow. And you can't go and do that. But on the Deep South and the upper levels of that is that's quite a complicate. I'm just getting used to the terminology. But that trend which we already are mining and we just developed the declines down. And so that and the reason we call Deep South is below the water table, all of the water table. So yeah OK. So it's the middle of that's why I understand that. So we are really mining the middle there. And all that is bulk mining. And that brings significant improvements in costs. And that will continue to happen. And again that design and Goldrush we believe that it will change that mine. And our focus in Goldrush is to really make it very modern new world style, type of mine, with the knowledge that we've got. And we should be able to do that. Turquoise Ridge is going to be halfway. And right now we just have been Trailing Road hitters so, self-manner and again we believe that, there's enormous opportunity with that. Because you know Turquoise Ridge is -- part of Turquoise Ridge traditionally very bad ground. And so, not to blast it very changes the risk profile of support et cetera. And then again just to add to that, our automation initiative. So what we did is we now people thought throughout the sort of digital and automation initiatives. But again we just transferred investing to the mines, where and so right now we brought some really exciting pockets of automation, whether it's open pit, drilling or haulage. And we are actually, at the point now where we trailing the automatic trucks with alongside men trucks. Now that artificial intelligence is important to be able to manage that space around the truck. And again, Kibali, is the leader in proper automation, where you'd have one operator, on surface. And he are she and its important part is that she part, is able to run three different operating sections on their own because it's automated. So again -- and again what we've done in the automation side is we've said, we challenged the team to say we want to do this efficiencies. We just don't want to automate for the sake of automation. And so, again I think over the next couple of years you'll see that the benefits of that effort. Josh Wolfson -- Analyst Josh Wolfson at Desjardins, Mark you mentioned a pretty sizable capital member for the Pueblo Viejo projects. When I think about that, bigger picture there's one aspect which is the major tailings expansion, unlocks a lot of ounces. And then the second part which allows you to process a lot of that or a lot earlier. But there's not the margin opportunity there. So, in the past you talked about that project providing very good returns and easily surpassing threshold hurdles. So, what are we missing with that kind of capital number? How does it work? Mark Bristow -- President and Chief Executive Officer So looking at -- so conceptually imagine 27 million ounces conceptually with a $1.3 billion investment, 800,000-plus ounces a year, at sort of the costs that you see now, we don't have to -- you could do it your own and so it makes real returns significant returns. So and part of that -- so you're right, that we needed a tailings disposal, site that will support that sort of size of mine, and we are working on that. We've got a number of targets that we're evaluating or potential sites that we're evaluating. And then the process side is very simple. Originally, the team was looking at a concentrate part, so you have a high-grade zone, direct fee, a high-grade ore. You have the lower grade ore and some very big stockpiles at around three-grams. Josh, are you got that? And so the idea then is to take part of that floater so you concentrate the gold. And then part of it that you oxidize, through a dump each base process, just putting water through a dump and you partially oxidized the sulfide. Yeah. So what we're doing now, is we're looking at -- so -- and that's all quite risky and it's rehandled. So what John and the team have done is that, we have true-tried and full-scale confirmation of being able to concentrate, and do ultrafine brand, both in Tongon and Kibali. And then the idea is you take that concentrate, ultrafine brand and it just starts the oxidation process and finish it in case. And so that you can control the partial -- because all you want to do is take the sulfide down, the energy down and they said they can put it through the autoclave. So you're taking a large amount of the lower-grade ore concentrating it producing the sulfur content and putting it through the process. And so -- and so the back end of the mine is the same and the opportunities that we're now modeling are quite exciting, because 800,000 ounces is the bottom-end of a profile that we're doing a trade-off on and as you increase that efficiency of that concentration, so you drop the costs. And as you drop the costs, you unlock the reserves. And so that's the model that we're doing now. And by quarter three, you will have a good handle on the actual -- the scope. We've got a scoping study which works, and we will have a sort of pre-feasibility type project by the back half of this year. By next year we'll have -- finished that. I don't know, John, do you want to add anything to that? John Steele -- METALLURGY, ENGINEERING AND CAPITAL PROJECTS EXECUTIVE Yeah. The essence is the tank oxidation with ultrafine grind as an engineer that gives us controllability, because we can vary the grind to get the oxidation it require. On the pad, we get what we get, in terms of oxidation but now that we've got a process that we can control we've got a really viable project on our hands. Steven Howard Butler Thank you, Mark. Steve Butler, GMP. Mark as the previous slide before this one Tier 2 assets can you remind us again what you define as the lowest parameters for a Tier 2 asset in the portfolio? Mark Bristow -- President and Chief Executive Officer 3 million ounces returns of $1000 dollar long-term gold price. Steven Howard Butler And Massawa is beneath that you said when resource? Mark Bristow -- President and Chief Executive Officer Yeah. Just short of that. I mean, Massawa is a particularly interesting example. It's one of the best by far undeveloped gold deposits in Africa. And again, there is couple of junior companies around it that have installed infrastructure. And so -- and again, this is a project that we would be prepared to support and realizing its value and we've engaged with the Senegalese government because again the Senegalese government haven't really benefited from gold-mining. There's been gold mining in Senegal, but they've all been marginal. And so how do you -- can you exploit the installed infrastructure already in that region and not pulled in another mine. And you know, I mean, that's the difference between our focus always is how do you make money? Not how do you produce answers? So there's an opportunity to work on that. Right now, we've got a focus on completing the process with the Senegalese on getting this project across the land. Ralph Profiti -- Eight Capital -- Analyst Thanks, Mark. Ralph Profiti from Eight Capital. We have Fourmile currently excluded from the Nevada joint venture. Is that due to the 43-101 disclosure? Or is there potential that the economics maybe different inside and outside the joint venture depending on what you have on what comes out of the feasibility study? Mark Bristow -- President and Chief Executive Officer So as you will recall, when we did this joint venture it was negotiated under quite a lot of pressure and the principles of the deal was based on market consensus of the assets the net asset value. And very clearly Fourmile wasn't in the market models. And so -- and we know how valuable Fourmile is. So we felt that we would -- we didn't want to put it in because there was no value. There was no market value on it. What we have agreed is -- and Newmont kept out a couple of long-dated assets as well, where there is no value and then because they were not -- they were marginal in the current markets. For Fourmile and for the other assets, either party has an ability to bring it into a joint venture at the feasibility NPV provided it delivers 15% IRR at $1200 gold. Am I correct? And it will be also brought in not only at the NPV of $1200 gold with an IRR of 15%, but it will attract the same premium multiple as the vending partners. So if Barrick was trading at 1.3 times, you would pay it and also the joint venture will pay for the cost of the feasibility, so you'll recoup the feasibility. And it will come into the joint venture and the other party can elect to maintain its shareholding by making good on the cash flows to the vending partner or can take the dilution. That's the way it is--that's the way it is structure. Am I correct in that? Thanks. We're done. Nicky -- I mean, Jenny? So we are going to --we will have them, they can talk. Operator We will now take questions from the phone line. Our question comes from Chris Terry of Deutsche Bank. Chris Terry -- Deutsche Bank. -- Analyst Hi. Hello, Mark and team. Few questions for me. I understand you haven't got the medium to long-term guidance out yet and you're still working through that. I just wondered if there was an update on the timing for that and maybe just conceptually whether you could step through excluding the Nevada opportunity obviously on the JV which is stepped through some of the other things you found in the last three months and how that sizes up for the medium term. And then I was just also interested on the comments around divestments overall. I know you're taking a longer-term approach to that, but assets like Porgera I think it was interesting you talked about that with the Tier 1 opportunities, so I was just wondering whether you could make some high-level comments on some of the assets and the time line maybe on the divestments. Thank you. Mark Bristow -- President and Chief Executive Officer Okay. So on the divestments I've said that our target is about -- is around $1.5 billion of realized value as part of that program. And I won't be adding any more color to that process. I think that's good enough for you to measure me against. Right now, I don't want to start the public negotiation on these assets that all as I pointed out valuable. There's some that still needs some additional work to really get our head around the true value and we're busy with that. And also we are mindful that any transaction we do, we're clear about maintaining our relationship with our host countries because there's no country in which we will be realizing assets that isn't an important destination for our ongoing exploration. So that's the reason behind that. On the guidance, I have this ongoing negotiation with my team, so we have to reach a compromise and that is that we will definitely have it to you this year, but we have given you very clear guidance, 5.1 million to 5.7 million ounces and that's a five year horizon before 5.1 million to 5.6 million ounces and for the next five years that range before any disposals. And the cost profile, all-in sustaining cost is sitting at 8.70 to 9.20. But at the back end of that five years, it will be below all -- I mean at the bottom end or below that number. It's in the guidance we're giving you. And because you've consistently seen that guidance right from Randgold and Barrick, it's just that we've got a bit more work to be able to be comfortable with it, but that we're comfortable that we'll meet that guidance evenly. And by the way, there's nobody else that has that sort of guidance over five years. And the one thing I would add is we will meet our five-year guidance when we give it to you unlike most other people in this industry. Chris Terry -- Deutsche Bank. -- Analyst Okay, thanks, Mark. And just one follow-up, just on copper specifically, you've got a slide there in your pack, the last three months or so most investors have gone a little bit more bullish in copper. I just wonder whether you could talk about the role that copper assets and how you think about that within the mix? Thanks. Mark Bristow -- President and Chief Executive Officer Yes. So copper is an absolutely strategic metal for us. Why? Because with the merger, we moved into much younger geological provinces, particularly the whole western seaboard of the Americas both south and north. And with that comes an association between gold and copper. And copper has many similarities on process -- in the process and also geologically apart from the fact that in many cases it co-habits with gold. So that's the reason and we're very clear when we launched this merger that we have specific criteria and for copper, it's going to meet our investment criteria and that's hard for a copper mine. And secondly, we would certainly invest in anything that grows copper and gold and we would also invest in pure copper, if there was an opportunity where our presence at an address gave us a competitive advantage over the traditional copper mines. So that's really the guidance in which we will operate and I've got the reason that we're going to change the plan. I'll give you a simple example. Jabal Sayid is in an area which is part of the -- what we think the Arabian Shield which we all know as geologists, but we think that that's the same geology as the Nubian Shield, so we call it the Nubian Arabian shield. There's a Zakaria in there which is technically a Tier 1 asset, but there is going to be no other sort of big discoveries like that because no one is really look for it. And our relationship with in Ma'aden in Saudi Arabia gives us that opportunity to explore that whole Arabian shield and across the Red Sea into the Nubian shield with a partner that knows how to operate in those jurisdictions. I mean culturally, we've got the geological expertise and they have the geopolitical key. And so by the way Jabal Sayid has got some significant upside which we are already working on. When we got people who are worrying about whether it could actually deliver on its design and we think it can and certainly geologically it can. And again there's been very little geological modeling or mineral resource manager, no geology-driven business because it's high-grade copper. And so it makes sense for us. And so what we're doing is putting together a dedicated exploration team to evaluate that region and at the same time, we will expand and deliver the full potential on Jabal Sayid and then will make the decisions in the fullest of time, but that asset really does make significant cash flow. And if we can jack it up and its throughput than it's going to make even better cash flow. Chris Terry -- Deutsche Bank. -- Analyst Thanks Mark. Operator Our next question comes from John Bridges of JPMorgan. John Bridges -- JP Morgan -- Analyst Good afternoon Mark. Congratulations on the progress. Keep up the good work with the Spanish. I still struggle with it on occasions within Africans which creates all sorts of problems. Just wondering you've been talking this morning about Acacia and forcing the issue. Does that mean buying out minorities? Is that -- how do you see the way forward with that issue? Mark Bristow -- President and Chief Executive Officer So I think all options are on the table whether it's taking out the minorities or encouraging the Acacia Board to run a strategic program or something in between. The problem is that we are not prepared to overpay for these assets. Right now, it's really in a bad space and we need a lot of work to get that back on an even keel and that requires -- and again, I think everyone understands that it's very difficult for Acacia Board to actually run that company. And I'm a bit concerned that all the effort we've made, we don't seem be to be able to get through to anyone. We certainly are making progress with the Tanzanian government, but again there's a standoff of the two parties and we're in the middle trying to facilitate it. And also we have an argument over whether we can exercise our assets as the major shareholder and so it's a very complex situation. And so when you get into that environment, as our mediator, it's difficult because both parties are still trying to keep all options open and it makes a difficult negotiation. So as you see we've been -- we go a few steps forward and a couple of steps back and -- but as I've said before, there is no doubt in my mind when we get to the solution whatever it is, it's going to be good for stakeholders, because right now, it's not good for anyone. John Bridges -- JP Morgan -- Analyst Understood. Understood. I'm a little bit confused because my understanding was Tanzanian wanted to talk to you and they want to be involved, but they weren't able to. Mark Bristow -- President and Chief Executive Officer Well, yes, to a degree. I mean, that's the lip service. The Tanzanian government are very committed to try to find the solution. The problem is, is there a commitment on both sides and enough courage to be able to close out? And we can't sign anything that we're not prepared to because we're not in a position to legally. So our only role is to be able to play a messenger and end up in which we are well advanced and getting to is try and get an agreement -- the basic detailed agreement that we can deliver to the Acacia Board and its independent community. And then it's up to them to make that decision. It would be a lot easier if Acacia was more engaging in their discussion, but again I think you're seeing everyone protecting a bit of their own turf, because it's a complex situation. There's not a lot of trust left on either side. So we're going to continue working with it. And again, we've assured Acacia that we're working to get this thing done and we will present it to them, but at the same time they've also questioned our right to be able to buy out shares. So in itself it doesn't make -- then you've got to ask the question so why we are here, why doesn't Acacia go do the deal? And the answer is, they can't. So they will eventually get somebody to see reason, I hope. Not from the lack of trying on Acacia, I must say for a long time now. John Bridges -- JP Morgan -- Analyst Okay. Appreciate the color. Mark Bristow -- President and Chief Executive Officer Thank you. Operator Our next question comes from John Tumazos from John Tumazos Very Independent Research. John Steele -- METALLURGY, ENGINEERING AND CAPITAL PROJECTS EXECUTIVE Thank you. [Foreign Language] So in the quarter Barrick had about a 2% return on equity. Assuming constant gold prices Mark when you got things calming in a couple of years, what's a reasonable target, 6%, 8% for ROE? John Bridges -- JP Morgan -- Analyst [Foreign Language] Mark Bristow -- President and Chief Executive Officer So if you look at -- that's a tough question to answer and I think our legal people are going to be cringing about exactly what I'm going to say now. I see it in this audience. So, if you look at our dividend policy -- I mean the dividend we just paid, we can afford it, very much afford it. That's a 1.2% yield. That's significant in the gold industry, making it out of real money. And we just started. So I've said and John said this too our focus is to drive this business to be able to deliver real value for its stakeholders. In Randgold, we've got the dividend yield up significantly and I've got no doubt that we've got -- on balance we're -- we've got a better portfolio of assets and there's no better way than with the best people and the best assets to produce leading returns. And so it's my objective to be able to become the go-to-gold company when it comes to returns and that's our focus and every reason we have to be able to continue to deliver on that. John Bridges -- JP Morgan -- Analyst [Foreign Language] Operator This concludes the question-and-answer session. I would like to turn the conference back over to Mark Bristow for closing remarks. Mark Bristow -- President and Chief Executive Officer Again, well, thank you very much again for your patience and your questions and do we have -- I mean traditionally we serve a glass of wine or anything, yeah, can we, so you can have a cup of tea or coffee with the team, I think next door. There's refreshments over there. Traditionally in Randgold we use to offer you a glass of wine, but we'll work on that. I think we've got to get a liquor license or something. Thanks very much for your attention. Cheers. Operator This concludes today's conference call. You may disconnect your lines. Thank you for participating. Should you have additional questions, please contact the Barrick Investor Relations Department. Thank you for participating and have a pleasant day. Duration: 85 minutes Call participants: Mark Bristow -- President and Chief Executive Officer Catherine Raw -- Executive Managing Director John Steele -- METALLURGY, ENGINEERING AND CAPITAL PROJECTS EXECUTIVE Greg Barnes -- TD. Mark or Catherine -- Analyst Stephen Walker -- RBC Capital Markets. -- Analyst Stephen Walker -- RBC Capital Markets -- Analyst Josh Wolfson -- Analyst Steven Howard Butler Ralph Profiti -- Eight Capital -- Analyst Chris Terry -- Deutsche Bank. -- Analyst John Bridges -- JP Morgan -- Analyst More GOLD analysis All earnings call transcripts AlphaStreet Logo More From The Motley Fool This article is a transcript of this conference call produced for The Motley Fool. While we strive for our Foolish Best, there may be errors, omissions, or inaccuracies in this transcript. As with all our articles, The Motley Fool does not assume any responsibility for your use of this content, and we strongly encourage you to do your own research, including listening to the call yourself and reading the company's SEC filings. Please see our Terms and Conditions for additional details, including our Obligatory Capitalized Disclaimers of Liability. Motley Fool Transcribers 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. As the latest round of trade talks between China and the United States gets underway, China Beige Book CEO Leland Miller blames China for derailing negotations last week. Substantively we are very close [to a deal.] Were almost there, Miller told Yahoo Finances The Ticker on Wednesday. But the Chinese decided to get greedy last week. You saw them push back on certain aspects of the deal: cybertheft, subsidies. The Chinese are going to have to walk back everything they did in the past week in order to just get us back on track. On Thursday, trade negotiations will get underway the evening before President Donald Trump plans to hike tariffs from 10% to 25% on $200 billion dollars worth of Chinese goods if a deal isnt reached. Trump asserted on Wednesday that China broke the deal after the country backtracked on key measures in a draft trade agreement. For its part, Chinas Commerce Ministry says it will retaliate if Trump hits the country with new tariffs. U.S. President Donald Trump and China's President Xi Jinping shakes hands after making joint statements at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, China, November 9, 2017. REUTERS/Damir Sagolj "The escalation of trade friction is not in the interests of the people of the two countries and the people of the world, The Ministry said in a statement. The Chinese side deeply regrets that if the U.S. tariff measures are implemented, China will have to take necessary countermeasures." That followed a decision by the U.S. Trade Representatives office to impose new tariffs that would take effect at 12:01 a.m. on Friday if a new trade deal is not reached. On Wednesday, Trump tweeted, "The reason for the China pullback & attempted renegotiation of the Trade Deal is the sincere HOPE that they will be able to 'negotiate' with Joe Biden or one of the very weak Democrats, and thereby continue to ripoff the United States (($500 Billion a year)) for years to come. The reason for the China pullback & attempted renegotiation of the Trade Deal is the sincere HOPE that they will be able to negotiate with Joe Biden or one of the very weak Democrats, and thereby continue to ripoff the United States (($500 Billion a year)) for years to come.... Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) May 8, 2019 Still, Miller says the United States has the upper hand. Story continues Its amazing because for a while there, China had chipped away and they probably would have gotten away with it, Miller says. But because the economy improved, they got overconfident and they decided to make this power play at the end and its really blowing up in their faces right now. Besides increasing tariffs on $200 billion worth of Chinese goods for 25%, Trump threatened tariffs on an additional $325 billion of imported goods. This is part of all an effort by the U.S. to stop what it calls unfair trade practices by China, including theft of intellectual property and currency manipulation. China denies those claims. China reportedly considered abandoning trade talks following Trumps threats, but Miller says a relationship with the U.S. is too valuable for China not to negotiate a deal. I dont think anyone has the leverage the U.S. does, so the U.S. consumer is very important to China right now. Theres nobody else that can actually throw their weight around the way the U.S. can. Follow Yahoo Finance on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, Flipboard, SmartNews, LinkedIn,YouTube, and reddit. By Jose Sanchez BELIZE CITY (Reuters) - Belizeans have voted to ask the United Nations world court to decide Guatemala's claim that it is the rightful owner of half of Belize's territory, setting the scene for a resolution to a dispute that has rumbled on for centuries. In a referendum held on Wednesday, 55.4 percent of voters opted to send the matter to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague, according to results published by Belize's elections and boundaries department on Thursday. The remaining 44.6 percent of voters in the former British colony in Central America opposed the motion to ask the court. Guatemalans in April 2018 voted by an overwhelming majority to have the ICJ rule on the dispute, which stretches back to the dawn of the colonial era in the Americas. [nL8N1RS0MI] In a statement, Guatemala's government applauded the referendum result and said it would immediately contact the foreign ministry of Belize to agree the next steps in the process. "The final resolution of the dispute will broaden and deepen the good relations that exist between Guatemala and Belize," the Guatemalan foreign ministry said. Officials from the U.S. State Department, the European Union and the Organization of American States (OAS) also welcomed the outcome of the Belize referendum. Guatemala recognized the independence of Belize at the beginning of the 1990s. But it never accepted the borders and continues to claim about 11,000 square km (4,250 square miles) of Belize, about half of its territory. In December 2008, both countries signed a deal that its inhabitants could vote to decide whether the territorial claim, which includes various islands, should be decided by the ICJ. Belize Prime Minister Dean Barrow is betting the court will settle the issue once and for all by confirming Belize's borders. Belize, an English-speaking country of around 375,000 people, became independent in 1981. Inhabited by Maya before the arrival of Europeans, the territory was claimed by Spain and settled by British buccaneers during the 17th century. Belize later became a British possession surrounded by countries that Spain had colonized. (Reporting by Jose Sanchez; additional reporting by Sofia Menchu in Guatemala City; editing by Dave Graham, Jonathan Oatis and Rosalba O'Brien) Logo of jester cap with thought bubble. Image source: The Motley Fool. Bio-Rad Laboratories Inc (NYSE: BIO) Q1 2019 Earnings Call May. 8, 2019, 5:00 p.m. ET Contents: Prepared Remarks Questions and Answers Call Participants Prepared Remarks: Operator Good day, ladies and gentlemen, and welcome to the Q1 2019 Bio Rad Laboratories Inc Earnings Conference Call. At this time, all participants are in a listen-only mode. Later we will conduct a question-and-answer session and instructions will follow at that time. (Operator Instructions) As a reminder, this conference call is being recorded. I would now like to introduce your host for today's conference, Mr. Ron Hutton. Sir, you may begin. Ronald Hutton -- Vice President and Treasurer Thank you, Jimmy. Before we begin the call, I would like to caution everyone that we will be making forward-looking statements about management's goals, plans and expectations, our future financial performance and other matters because our actual results may differ materially from our plans and expectations, you should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements and I encourage you to review our filings with the SEC where we discuss in detail our risk factors in our business. The Company does not intend to update any forward-looking statements made during the call today. Our remarks today will also include references to non-GAAP net income and non-GAAP diluted income per share which are financial measures that are not defined under Generally Accepted Accounting Principles. Investors should review the reconciliation of these non-GAAP measures to the comparable GAAP results contained in our earnings release. With that I'd like to turn the call over to Ilan Daskal, EVP and CFO. Ilan Daskal -- Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer Thank you, Ron. Good afternoon and thank you all for joining us. Today we will review the first quarter financial results for 2019. With me today are Norman Schwartz, our CEO; Andy Last, Chief Operating Officer; Annette Tumolo, President of the Life Science Group; and John Hertia, President of our Clinical Diagnostics Group. We will review the results on a GAAP basis as well as commentary on a non-GAAP basis. Story continues Net sales for the first quarter of 2019 were $554 million which is a 0.4% growth on a reported basis versus $551.5 million in Q1 of 2018. On a currency neutral basis, sales increased 4%. During the quarter, we experienced good demand across many of our key product areas and growth in all three regions with a particular strength noted in the Americas. When comparing to Q1 of last year, remember that Q1 of 2018 sales included a royalty settlement of approximately $6 million within the Diagnostics segment. Also included in Q1 of 2018 is about $6 million of RainDance sales compared to about $1 million in Q1 of 2019. If we exclude the RainDance reduction of sales and the royalty settlement in Q1 of 2018, we estimate that the currency-neutral sales growth for Q1 of 2019 was about 6%. Life science in the first quarter of 2019, the revenue was $215.7 million compared to $197.8 million in Q1 of 2018 which is an increase of 9.1% on a reported basis and the year-over-year growth of 12% on a currency neutral basis. The growth in the first quarter was across all product areas with particular strength within cell biology and food safety. Digital PCR also had a nice growth when excluding the RainDance sales and our process media product line which can fluctuate on a quarterly basis, had a very strong quarter. Excluding process media sales, the Life Science business grew about 5.5% year-over-year on a currency neutral basis. On a geographic basis, Life Science currency-neutral sales were strong across all three regions and most notable in the Americas. Sales of Clinical Diagnostics products in the quarter were $334.1 million compared to $350.8 million in Q1 of 2018 which is a 4.8% decline on a reported basis and less than 1% decline on a currency neutral basis. Excluding last year's tough compare of the royalty settlement, the diagnostics business grew about 1% year-over-year on a currency neutral basis. Despite a steady growth, it is important to know that placements of our key diagnostic systems showed consistent growth during the first quarter of 2019 versus Q1 of 2018. During the quarter, the Diagnostics Group posted solid growth in the Americas, across all the product areas and of note growth in blood typing and in autoimmune testing products. These geographic growth was somewhat offset by a weaker quarter in parts of EMEA and in Asia. The decline in Asia was associated with order timing this quarter and a tough compare with Q1 of 2018. Overall, our outlook for Asia remains positive. The reported gross margin for the first quarter of 2019 was 56.3% on a GAAP basis and compares to 54.8% in Q1 of 2018. The current quarter gross margin benefited from an Escrow release of $7.4 million related to an acquisition from 2011 within the Life Science group. The gross margin also benefited from improved logistics cost and inventory reserves. The improvement was partially offset by product mix and higher service costs. Amortization related to prior acquisitions recorded in cost of goods sold was $3.7 million compared to $4.8 million in Q1 of 2018. SG&A expenses for Q1 of 2019 were $207.6 million or 37.5% of sales compared to 37.9% in Q1 of 2018. Total amortization related to acquisitions recorded in SG&A for the quarter was $1.7 million versus $2.1 million in Q1 of 2018. Research and development expense in Q1 was $47.6 million or 8.6% of sales compared to $49.4 million or 9% in Q1 of 2018. Looking below the operating line, the change in share market value of the equity securities holdings added $1 billion and $59 million of income to the reported results, and it substantially related to the holdings of the shares of Sartorius AG. Also during the quarter. interest and other income resulted in net other income of $11.4 million compared to $4.1 million income last year. Q1 of 2019 includes $15.7 million of gross dividend income from Sartorius which was declared this year in March and was paid in April. In 2018, the dividend was declared and paid in the second quarter. Remember that in the first quarter of 2018, other income included $9.2 million for the divestiture of a small product line and the sale of surplus land in Europe. The effective tax rate used in Q1 of 2019 was 23.2% and compares to 24% in Q1 of 2018. Reported net income for the first quarter was $865.2 million and diluted earnings per share for the quarter were $28.74. The increase in net income and earnings per share versus last year is substantially related to the valuation of the Sartorius Holding. Moving on to the non-GAAP results. Looking at our results on a non-GAAP basis, we have excluded certain atypical and unique items that impacted both the gross and operating margins, as well as other income.These items are detailed in the reconciliation table in the press release. Looking at the non-GAAP results for the first quarter in cost of goods sold . We have excluded $3.7 million of amortization of purchased intangibles, $7.4 million Escrow release related to our prior acquisition within the Life Science group and a small restructuring adjustment. These adjustments move the gross margin for the first quarter from 56.3% to 55.6. These non-GAAP gross margin compares to a non-GAAP gross margin of 55.7% in Q1 of 2018. The non-GAAP SG&A in the first quarter of 2019 was 36.4% an improvement versus 37.1% in Q1 of 2018. In SG&A, on a non-GAAP basis, we have excluded amortization of purchased intangibles of $1.7 million, legal related expenses of $4.4 million, acquisition related benefits of $365,000 and a small restructuring costs. In R&D, we have excluded a small amount of restructuring costs. The non-GAAP R&D in Q1 was 8.6%, which is in line with our expectation. The cumulative sum of these non-GAAP adjustments result in moving this quarterly operating margin from 10.2% on a GAAP basis to 10.5% on a non-GAAP basis. These non-GAAP operating margin compares to a non-GAAP operating margin in Q1 of 2018 of 9.7%. We have also excluded certain items below the operating line which are the increase in value of the Sartorius equity holdings of $1 billion and $69 million as well as $440,000 associated with venture investments and other nonrecurring items. The non-GAAP effective stocks rate for the quarter was 28.5%, this higher tax rate reflects a change in geographic mix of the profitability, however, we still expect the full-year non-GAAP effective tax rate to be between 27% and 28%. And finally, non-GAAP net income and earnings per share for the first quarter of 2019 were $49.6 million and $1.65 per share compared to $35.4 million and $1.17 per share in Q1 of 2018. We estimate that the Sartorius dividend net of an estimation of it's stocks provision totals $0.40. The estimated EPS benefit of $0.40 shift from Q2 to Q1 and Sartorius may continue to declare future annual dividend distributions in the first calendar quarter of each year. Moving onto the balance sheet, as of March 31st, total cash and short-term investments were $865 million compared to $850 million at the end of 2018. The first quarter historically has tended to be a heavy cash use quarter as we typically pay the annual bonuses and commissions as well as annual software and IT related maintenance expenses. Also during the quarter, we completed an acquisition of a small company in the Life Science group that will expand our suite of genomic reagent offerings. In the first quarter, we adopted the new accounting standard related to leases which requires us to recognize most leases as assets and liabilities on the balance sheet. You will note at $222 million addition to the balance sheet of right-of-use assets and associated liabilities which are included in other current liabilities and in other long-term liabilities. These balances primarily represent our operating lease obligations for the duration of the global facilities and other leases. The adoption of the standard has a minimal effect to the income statement. For the first quarter of 2019, net cash generated from operations was $43 million which compares to $40 million in Q1 of 2018. This improvement reflects the higher operating profits partially as a result of a disciplined cost control. The adjusted EBITDA for the first quarter of 2019 which includes the Sartorius dividend was $101.7 million or 18.4% of sales. The estimated adjusted EBITDA in Q1 of 2019 and excluding the Sartorius dividend was about 15.5% the adjusted EBITDA in the first quarter of 2018 was $81.1 million or about 14.7% of sales. Net capital expenditures for the first quarter of 2019 were $23.6 million or 4.3% of sales. Our expectation for the full year CapEx spend remains in the range of $110 million to $120 million and depreciation and amortization for the quarter was $32.9 million. We are currently on track with the annual guidance that was provided during the last call. And with this Norman, do you have anything you would like to say before we open the call for the questions? Norman Schwartz -- Chairman of the Board, President and Chief Executive Officer Sure. I think Ilan covered the quarter well. I just wanted to say that it's great to have both Ilan and Andy, Andy last on Board, both recently joined us and they both bring a wealth of experience and fresh perspectives to Bio Rad. As you may know, Ilan's background is in accounting and finance and he has spent most of his career in the semiconductor industry mostly with global companies. Andy, is rooted in the biological sciences and over the years he has progressed through product and general management at some recognizable names like Applied Biosystems, BD and Affymetrix and bringing with him a wealth of industry and operational experience. I think they both joined us as we're off to a good start for the year. And the organization looks forward to their contributions and with that, Jimmy, I think we'll open up the line to take your questions. Questions and Answers: Operator (Operator Instructions) Our first question comes from Michael Sarcone with Deutsche Bank. Your line is now open. Michael Sarcone -- Deutsche Bank -- Analyst Thanks, good afternoon, this is Mike Sarcone on for Dan Leonard. Just first on the Life Sciences business, you called out particularly strength in the Americas. Can you give us some more granularity on what you saw in APAC and Europe? Annette Tumolo -- Executive Vice President, President, Life Science Group Hi, this is Annette. So we saw good growth across all our geographies, we called the Americas out because they were particularly strong. So I don't have anything bad to say about growth in Europe and EMEA and Asia. They are growing across all of our key product areas. Michael Sarcone -- Deutsche Bank -- Analyst Got it, thanks. And just one on the Clinical Diagnostics business. You gave a positive mentioned to autoimmune and blood typing. Can you maybe delve into any areas where you saw particular weakness just to get some granularity there? Ronald Hutton -- Vice President and Treasurer Mike, you're looking for a year-over-year increase? Michael Sarcone -- Deutsche Bank -- Analyst No, well, you had mentioned, you called out the positives in the quarter for clinical diagnostic. I was just curious if there was anything that stood out as being particularly weak in the quarter. And if you could kind of talk to that. Ronald Hutton -- Vice President and Treasurer Particularly weak in the quarter? Michael Sarcone -- Deutsche Bank -- Analyst Yes. Ronald Hutton -- Vice President and Treasurer Well, I think in the in the earlier narrative, we talked a little bit about Asia and parts of Europe being a little bit weak Asia because of sort of the ordering lumpiness and there were certain parts of Europe, I'd say probably non-core Europe that were weaker. And we did see some growth in quality control and diabetes on a global level but we didn't highlight that because it wasn't as strong as both the BioPlex autoimmune business and blood typing. Norman Schwartz -- Chairman of the Board, President and Chief Executive Officer And let me add to that also for Asia, specifically, we believe it's a timing issue and it's not kind of a sustained weakness that we see so far. Michael Sarcone -- Deutsche Bank -- Analyst Got it. Thank you. And last one for me. Are you still expecting EMEA on the clinical diagnostics side, to return to growth this year? Ronald Hutton -- Vice President and Treasurer Yes. We did actually see some growth in quarter one. I think we've mentioned over the last few calls, if you go back to couple of years, there was some consolidation in Europe and assets load growth and then we talked at our last earnings call about EMEA having worked through the D3 transition for SAP that seems to be continuing and they did show growth overall for this quarter, which was encouraging. Michael Sarcone -- Deutsche Bank -- Analyst Okay, thank you. Ronald Hutton -- Vice President and Treasurer Thank you. Operator Thank you. And our next question comes from Brandon Couillard with Jefferies. Your line is now open. Brandon Couillard -- Jefferies -- Analyst Thanks, good afternoon. I actually like to start with Andy. I'm curious if there are any similarities, you can draw from your time at Affymetrix where I think you took operating margins up something like 600 basis points over time that you can apply and that adhere at Bio-Rad, What are some of your near-term priorities as you sort of take over this CEO role in some of the biggest opportunities you see near term? Andrew Last -- Executive Vice President, Chief Operating Officer Thank you, Brandon. So 600 basis points for that. Okay. Well, I think, the main comments I would make is that was really a question of probably managing the portfolio of the company and applying the resource where the biggest growth opportunities were. When I come into Bio Rad, I mean I'm on a couple of weeks and it's very early. I've got to -- fully understand the business and the profile of the business, but it's got a similar mix to Affymetrix and I feel confident that we can apply the same principles as we move forward. Brandon Couillard -- Jefferies -- Analyst All right, super and then maybe one for you, Ilan it's early but based on your first few weeks at the company, any reason to back off the 2020 targets? How would you just sort of describe your level of comfort with those that were established sort of by your predecessor? And any thoughts as to how you might be able to use the balance sheet more sensibly and do you think of carrying $400 million to $500 million of net cash is an optimal position for the balance sheet. Ilan Daskal -- Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer Yes, sure. Thanks, Brendan. So let me start with the 2020 target. I did have kind of a talk down and look at it and at the first kind of conclusion, I think that is -- is a reasonable target to achieve and that's by the end of 2020. We have several initiatives within the Company, several that are focused in the SG&A and in gross margin expansion. And Andy and I are going to look into those initiatives on a bottom-up basis and we're going to dive into each one of them. But overall, again it is targeted, I believe we can achieve by the end of 2020. Going back to your second question regarding the capital allocation model. So when you look at it, we have a $250 million buyback program right now, we did about 49 so far. And when you think about the inorganic activities, as an example the acquisition that we did this quarter. We continue to have the same kind of approach of either at tuck-in technology acquisitions or IP or alternatively acquisitions with nice cash flow this year in order to augment the free cash flow overall and at least for the time being, we think this is the best use of the overall capital allocation model that will deploy. Brandon Couillard -- Jefferies -- Analyst Okay and then what are your net -- could you speak to in sort of the demand trends you're seeing in the ddPCR business any moderation in growth there at all? And what are some of the key drivers and applications that are driving adoption of that system and any chance you could share with us the update on where the global installed base stands now? Thank you. Annette Tumolo -- Executive Vice President, President, Life Science Group I can probably answer some of those questions, Brandon. So we continue to see really good adoption for liquid biopsy application. It's is growing across all geographies. So we are very happy about that and we see really strong sales into the biopharma segment, both in discovery and in the QC and manufacturing and as people are manufacturing some of these newer cell-based drugs. So those are 2 areas that continue to drive good growth for us. Tell me what your other question was? We don't really talk about our installed base, but to say it's growing, and we expect this year to really continue the consumable pull through on all of those products as well. Brandon Couillard -- Jefferies -- Analyst Okay. And then maybe last one for John, perhaps a little bit of a slower start arguably some timing dynamics in there in diagnostics in Asia but you still expect that business to grow 3% to 4% for the year and then specifically on the blood typing business, how do you think your growth stacks up relative to that level of the market? And could you sort of speak to perhaps your competitive win rate if you launch some of these newer platforms in the US? Thank you. Ronald Hutton -- Vice President and Treasurer Yes. I'll start with the first question and Brandon overall guidance and confidence for us at both the group level and in Asia is fine we would stick with that. Blood typing continues to be strong, we don't really talk about competitive shares but we grew the business nicely in the first quarter. Adoption in the U.S. has been really good with the recent FDA approvals of the IH24 and then just last month IH500, we expect that to improve. We always start the medium volume market was the largest part of the market in the United States and IH500 is particularly well suited for that, so we continue to see good prospects for that business overall. Brandon Couillard -- Jefferies -- Analyst Very good. Thank you. Ronald Hutton -- Vice President and Treasurer Thank you, Brendan. Operator Thank you. And our next question comes from Patrick Donnelly with Goldman Sachs. Your line is now open. Patrick Donnelly -- Goldman Sachs -- Analyst Great, thanks. Maybe just one on the Life Science business, you obviously put up a great quarter. Maybe just talk through the magnitude of the beat there the durability of the growth, I know the guidance is for more kind of 5% to 6% type growth, nice double-digit growth to start the year, it doesn't seem like the outlook changed much but maybe just walk us through the dynamics. Is there any pull forward dynamic or any reason to think that the growth will slow materially again to get closer to that guidance range? Annette Tumolo -- Executive Vice President, President, Life Science Group We were happy that we had really strong growth across all of our core businesses and some of our newer businesses and good growth from process chromatography resins and that's one of those businesses where we can see fluctuations quarter-to-quarter in customer orders and we don't like to but we call that a lumpy business. So in the first quarter, we did have some pull through of orders that we expected to come in Q2, we got them in Q1. So I think that that moderates some of our expectations moving forward. Patrick Donnelly -- Goldman Sachs -- Analyst Okay, makes sense. And then the Ilan maybe some on the margin story, particularly this year seems a little ahead of schedule. We had it a little more back half-weighted. So can you just talk through what came in a little ahead of expectations on the margin side, what levers you guys been able to pull again maybe a little ahead of expectations? Ilan Daskal -- Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer Yes. So first let's recap the -- On a non-GAAP basis, the margin was about 55.6, which is about flat year-over-year. When you back out the RainDance revenue as well as the royalties from last year, you get a pickup of about a point or so. A lot of that pickup was in outcome of the initiative from last year. If you recall, the consolidation of the warehouses and logistics and supply chain kind of improvement and that contributed a lot of you know, of the incremental kind of margin and obviously process from was the other piece for this quarter. Patrick Donnelly -- Goldman Sachs -- Analyst Okay. And then last one from me just on the softness in Asia. Can you just give a bit more color on the order timing that things slip into 2Q that you've already recognized and expect to see a catch up on revs in 2Q or was it more uncertain in terms of the timing there? John Hertia -- Executive Vice President, President Its John Hertia. I think will -- again guidance hasn't changed so we think over the course of the year, the the anticipated orders that we're expecting for Asia will come in. Patrick Donnelly -- Goldman Sachs -- Analyst Thank you. Ronald Hutton -- Vice President and Treasurer Thank you. Operator Thank you (Operator Instructions). Our next question comes from Jack Meehan with Barclays. Your line is now open. Jack Meehan -- Barclays -- Analyst Thank you. Good afternoon. I was hoping you could start in the diagnostics business. I was curious how the quality controls business performed in the quarter, just given that usually pretty steady-eddy, I'm surprised it wasn't called out for growth, were there any one-time factors in the quarter or geographic point you would highlight? John Hertia -- Executive Vice President, President This is John Heritia. It did grow a little bit in the quarter but but not a call out business, a part of that mitigated growth was related to the earlier comments that we had and ordering patterns in China and in certain parts of Europe. Jack Meehan -- Barclays -- Analyst Got it. And then, I was curious on the Droplet Digital side, how some of the liquid biopsy rollout, how that's going and similarly any updates on timing of rollout of applications in single cell? Annette Tumolo -- Executive Vice President, President, Life Science Group Sure. So you may have heard that we achieved FDA clearance of the first Droplet Digital platform and test for use in liquid biopsy to monitor molecular response to chronic lukemia and we are going to launch that product in the second quarter by the end of the second quarter. So that was a really big development for us and we expect to see that help expand the adoption of lab developed tests on that platform, so these are all things that are helping expand our share in the liquid biopsy market. On the NGS sample prep single cell front, we have announced that we are launching in the next few weeks, a new application for interrogating the epigenomics of single cell, it's an attack seek kit for single cell NGS sample prep. So that's our next application coming out. Jack Meehan -- Barclays -- Analyst Great and just one final question, could you give a little bit more color on the sizing and the nature of the acquisition on the Life Science side in the quarter and any thoughts around the attractiveness of buyback at this point? Annette Tumolo -- Executive Vice President, President, Life Science Group I can answer the first part. We acquired a novel technology for genomic reagent application and right now we're kind of heads down, focused on getting the product transferred into our manufacturing plants, we plan to launch probably in the 4th quarter of this year and we'll have more to say about it closer to launch. Ronald Hutton -- Vice President and Treasurer And Jack to your second question. So in Q1, I mean after we filed, we had a close window, so we were not able to since the beginning of the year to be in the market. Generally speaking we will continue to be opportunistic with the buyback and it depends on the timing and when we feel that it sees the right opportunity for us to step in. Jack Meehan -- Barclays -- Analyst Okay, that makes sense. Thank you Ron. Ronald Hutton -- Vice President and Treasurer Thank you. Operator Thank you and I am showing no further questions in the queue at this time, I'd like to turn the call back to your Ilan Daskal for any closing remarks. Ilan Daskal -- Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer Do you want to pull one more time may be? Operator Certainly. (Operator Instructions) we'll take a moment to see if any final questions up here in the queue. We do have a follow-up from Jack Meehan with Barclays . Your line is now open. Jack Meehan -- Barclays -- Analyst I'll continue with a couple others that I had, I guess you called out some of the one-timers in the first quarter. Is there anything just as we think about the progression into the second quarter and into the second half. You would know, just in terms of one-timers year-over-year? Norman Schwartz -- Chairman of the Board, President and Chief Executive Officer So, one timers for example on the top-line on the process from, it's going to fluctuate as it does every year and that's the one that I can think about here right now. Jack Meehan -- Barclays -- Analyst Okay. And then the other progression I wanted to ask was on the gross margin side, I know there's been a little bit of movement related to the blood typing instrument versus reagent pieces but just as we think about the progression through the rest of the year, anything on that you would point out to you? Norman Schwartz -- Chairman of the Board, President and Chief Executive Officer In blood typing specifically? Jack Meehan -- Barclays -- Analyst Or just overall, which would impact the gross margins for the business. Norman Schwartz -- Chairman of the Board, President and Chief Executive Officer So generally, we don't break down the specific of each product line but the growth between blood typing is very nice and the pull through continues to be healthy and we are very pleased with the progress, I mean including the penetration into the U.S. market. Jack Meehan -- Barclays -- Analyst Okay. Do you still think 55.5 to 56 is a good range for the full year? Norman Schwartz -- Chairman of the Board, President and Chief Executive Officer Yes, we do. Jack Meehan -- Barclays -- Analyst Okay, thank you guys. Norman Schwartz -- Chairman of the Board, President and Chief Executive Officer Thank you. Operator We have a question from Kristine Singles, a Private Investor. Your line is now open. Kristine Singles -- Private Investor -- Analyst Thank you. Hello everyone. I just wanted to take a minute to say farewell and certainly thank the investment community for your interest and support over these many years. I've certainly enjoyed working with you very much. And I also wanted to say that I'm confident that Bio-Rad is in good hands and well positioned for the future and like you, we all be like you, I'll be excited to what the future unfolds. So with that, I'll say goodbye and best wishes for continued success and hopefully our paths will cross again one day. Ronald Hutton -- Vice President and Treasurer Thank you, Christine. I wanted to thank you also for your support in my transition here in the past few weeks. I don't know, Norman if you want to add anything? Norman Schwartz -- Chairman of the Board, President and Chief Executive Officer No. Ronald Hutton -- Vice President and Treasurer No, OK good. Thank you Christine. Kristine Singles -- Private Investor -- Analyst Okay, thank you. Norman Schwartz -- Chairman of the Board, President and Chief Executive Officer Thanks. Operator Thank you.(Operator Instructions), I am showing no questions in the queue at this time. Ronald Hutton -- Vice President and Treasurer Okay, thank you everyone for joining our call today and we appreciate your continued interest. Thank you. Operator Ladies and gentlemen, thank you for your participation in today's program. This does concluded and you may all disconnect. Everyone have a great day. Duration: 36 minutes Call participants: Ronald Hutton -- Vice President and Treasurer Ilan Daskal -- Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer Norman Schwartz -- Chairman of the Board, President and Chief Executive Officer Annette Tumolo -- Executive Vice President, President, Life Science Group Andrew Last -- Executive Vice President, Chief Operating Officer John Hertia -- Executive Vice President, President Michael Sarcone -- Deutsche Bank -- Analyst Brandon Couillard -- Jefferies -- Analyst Patrick Donnelly -- Goldman Sachs -- Analyst Jack Meehan -- Barclays -- Analyst Kristine Singles -- Private Investor -- Analyst More BIO analysis All earnings call transcripts AlphaStreet Logo More From The Motley Fool This article is a transcript of this conference call produced for The Motley Fool. While we strive for our Foolish Best, there may be errors, omissions, or inaccuracies in this transcript. As with all our articles, The Motley Fool does not assume any responsibility for your use of this content, and we strongly encourage you to do your own research, including listening to the call yourself and reading the company's SEC filings. Please see our Terms and Conditions for additional details, including our Obligatory Capitalized Disclaimers of Liability. Motley Fool Transcribers 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. By Stephen Jewkes MILAN (Reuters) - Rome's fragile government battled to avoid another costly bank bailout on Thursday after U.S. fund manager BlackRock ditched a proposed rescue of Italy's Carige. BlackRock and Carige gave no reason for the decision, which highlights investor concerns about Italy's uncertain political environment as time runs out for the troubled bank. Economy Minister Giovanni Tria said he was confident a market solution could still be found, telling reporters in Rome that the bank's commissioners were seeking an alternative investor and that the work done so far would not be wasted. Political infighting and the fact it was unable to keep its stake below 25 percent were among the factors that persuaded BlackRock to back out, a source familiar with the matter said. Under the plan, based on a 720 million euro ($806 million) capital injection, Italian banks were set to take up some of Carige's shares by converting a bond into equity. But without more investors, BlackRock's stake would have exceeded a quarter. The rescue aimed to help the state avoid its fourth major bank bailout in two years. The government has earmarked up to 1 billion euros to buy Carige shares if it cannot find investors. A state bail-out would potentially embarrass the ruling parties, the right-wing League and the anti-establishment 5-Star Movement, which both attacked previous governments over the use of public funds to save ailing banks. OTHER SOLUTIONS Carige, which has been put under special administration by the European Central Bank, said it was looking at other market solutions to its capital shortfall after BlackRock's move but said it could also seek government financial aid. "We will evaluate other market solutions aimed at ensuring the stability and turnaround of Banca Carige," it said in a statement, adding it could still make a "request for a precautionary recapitalisation to the economy ministry." Story continues The ECB, which sources have said has set a mid-May deadline for investors to submit binding bids for Carige, said on Thursday it had been informed of developments and was in contact with Carige's temporary administrators. Carige has been laid low by years of mismanagement and an excessive exposure to the depressed economy of Italy's northwestern Liguria region. Italian bond yields have risen in recent days on concerns over tension within Rome's ruling coalition, with the gap between its benchmark bond yields and safer German Bunds increasing on Wednesday to the widest in more than two months. In another sign of jitters about political risk and a weak economy, Italy's biggest bank by assets UniCredit said this week it would reduce government bond holdings. But UniCredit Chief Executive Jean Pierre Mustier said on Thursday the bank remained strongly committed to the euro zone's third largest economy. (Additional reporting by Andrea Mandala and Gavin Jones; Editing by Silvia Aloisi, Mark Bendeich, Edmund Blair and Alexander Smith) "Blame It On My Youth" marks the band's first music since 2016. Produced by Tim Pagnotta, the pop-punk song sees Blink-182 reflecting on their decades-long career. "I was raised on a rerun/ I was bored to death, so I started a band/ Cut my teeth on a safety dance/ My attention span never stood a chance," frontman Mark Hoppus sings, sharing his childhood memories. Blink-182 also released the song's accompanying lyric video, which features graffiti artist Risk. He is seen spray-painting the lyrics on a wall in quick time lapse. "Blame It On My Youth" will likely appear on the band's forthcoming studio album, which will follow their 2016 "California." The record's title and release date are yet to be announced. In a recent interview with NME, Mark Hoppus teased that the new album will be "a lot more aggressive" and "darker in theme and tone." "If you like 'California' to 'Enema Of The State' then this album is more like the untitled record where we are trying to experiment more: trying to experiment more, trying different sounds, and trying to expand upon what people think Blink-182 is," he explained. On May 6, the band announced that they will be co-headlining a North American tour with rapper Lil Wayne -- with Welsh punk band Neck Deep as openers. Kicking off on June 27, certain tour dates will coincide with Blink-182's appearances on the Vans Warped Tour 25th anniversary reunion shows. Additional information about the co-headlining summer tour can be found at https://www.blink182.com/ Houston-based blockchain startup Data Gumbo Corp has raised $6 million in funding from international energy companies, World Oil writes, with Saudi's Aramco and Equinor Technology Ventures co-leading the Series A. Data Gumbo has created a Blockchain-as-a-Service (BaaS) platform designed for industrial customers, especially from the energy industry, to help them manage smart contracts across the oil and gas supply chain. The platform automates calculation, reconciliation and invoice payments, allegedly helping customers reduce costs by 10 per cent as well as offering improved transparency. We enabled the first application of blockchain technology in the offshore drilling industry and will continue to break new ground with applications of BaaS to improve the bottom line of companies of all sizes," said Andrew Bruce, CEO of Data Gumbo. "Blockchain will have a major impact on the oil and gas industry - and all global industries." The company will use the new funds to expand its commercial blockchain network. It will also make new hires for both its Houston headquarters and Norwegian offices. The RSCPA are appealing for witnesses after a boy was seen shaking and kicking a cat (RSCPA) Shocking footage has shown a boy kicking and shaking a defenceless cat in footage the RSPCA described as upsetting. The boy - who is believed to be a teenager - was seen lifting the cat by the back of its neck before shaking it and kicking it as he dropped it to the ground. Shocked witnesses to the incident, that took place on in Canford Heath, Poole, alerted the animal welfare charity to what they had just seen. The youngster was spotted lifting the cat by the back of its neck (RSCPA) The boy was spotted attacking the cat while walking with a group of five youngsters four boys and a girl. The incident took place at the junction of Sherborne Crescent and Adastral Road in Canford Heath shortly after 6.20pm on April 28. Read more from Yahoo News UK: Donald Trump finds call to shoot immigrants at the border funny Anglo-Saxon burial site discovered next to Essex supermarket Teenage boy stabbed in the back of the head in Croydon Following an appeal to find those responsible, the RSPCA have confirmed that they are no longer looking for further information. They added in a statement: We are so grateful to people who report suspected animal suffering, and grateful to everyone who helps our investigations. The incident happened at the junction of Sherborne Crescent and Adastral Road in Canford Heath (Google) Unfortunately we are unable to discuss specific individuals, and what action may have been taken. We understand how frustrating that is for animal lovers but releasing information could prejudice a future investigation or could lead to us being fined. Rose Namajunas is never one to shy away from tough challenges. So when the UFC strawweight champion was asked by the company to go to Brazil and fight the always-tough Jessica Andrade (19-6) in front of the latter's hometown fans in Rio de Janeiro, she didn't hesitate. Denver's Namajunas (8-3) defends her 115-pound belt against Andrade on Saturday night in the main event of UFC 237 at Jeunesse Arena, and she is looking forward to the unique challenge the opportunity provides. "I know it's tough for foreigners to fight in Brazil, and that's kind of why I want to do this," said Namajunas, who has won three consecutive bouts. "The fans there are passionate for their fighters, and fighting there is one to check off the bucket list." She has reason to be confident. Namajunas uses relentless pressure and high-volume output to wear down opponents before going in for the kill, an approach that made her a world champion. Five of her eight victories came by submission, and another was a technical knockout. Andrade, meanwhile, has proven to be one of the UFC's scrappiest competitors. Generously listed at 5-foot-2, she debuted in the UFC in 2013 when bantamweight (135 pounds) was the UFC's only women's weight class, and went 5-3 against significantly larger competition. When 115 was instituted, Andrade effortlessly adapted, amassing a 6-1 record since making the jump in 2016. Her only loss in the span was to then-champion Jonna Jedrzejczyk, whom Namajunas knocked out to claim the belt at UFC 217. UFC 237 also features a pair of legendary longtime Brazilian champions. Former middleweight champion Anderson Silva (34-9, 1 no-contest), who now resides in Palos Verdes, Calif., takes on Jared Cannonier (11-4) of Anchorage, Alaska, in the co-feature bout; and former featherweight titleholder Jose Aldo (28-4) of Manaus, Brazil, takes on rising Australian Alexander Volkanovski (19-1). --Field Level Media SAO PAULO (Reuters) - Brazil President Jair Bolsonaro plans to meet with former U.S. President George W. Bush and Senator Ted Cruz in Texas next week, he said on Thursday, after canceling a New York trip. The far-right Brazilian leader canceled plans last week to attend an event in New York City amid pressure from environmentalists, gay rights activists and Mayor Bill de Blasio, who called him a "dangerous man." Bolsonaro was set to be honored as person of the year by the Brazilian-American Chamber of Commerce at a ceremony in the Museum of Natural History in Manhattan. Under public pressure, the museum ultimately declined to host the event. As organizers scrambled to find another venue and sponsors pulled out, Bolsonaro scrapped the trip. Bolsonaro recently announced he would visit Dallas, Texas, instead to speak at an event hosted by Bolsonaro on May 16. The organization is a century-old, non-profit group with more than 90 affiliates around the United States that describes itself as nonpartisan. Separately, Bolsonaro's spokesman said on Thursday that the decision to visit Dallas followed an invitation from Bush. Unlike New York City's De Blasio, Dallas Mayor Mike Rawlings has said he will welcome Bolsonaro to the city. (Reporting by Marcelo Rochabrun and Eduardo Simoes, editing by G Crosse) By Rodrigo Viga Gaier RIO DE JANEIRO (Reuters) - A Brazilian court on Wednesday ordered that former President Michel Temer be jailed again over an ongoing investigation into allegations of corruption. Temer has been charged six times in connection with various corruption investigations. The court decision on Wednesday relates to an alleged corruption scheme involving a nuclear power plant operated by Eletronuclear, a subsidiary of state-run Centrais Eletricas Brasileiras SA. The former president has repeatedly denied corruption charges against him. Following the arrest order, Temer's attorney told reporters that there were no grounds for the arrest, saying it was an "injustice." Temer, speaking to reporters in Sao Paulo, said he would turn himself in to authorities the following morning. Temer had been held for several days in March over charges related to the alleged nuclear scheme. (Reporting by Rodrigo Viga Gaier; Writing by Jake Spring; Editing by Leslie Adler) By Jake Spring and Lisandra Paraguassu BRASILIA, May 8 (Reuters) - Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro is expected to attend an event next week in Texas at the invitation of the World Affairs Council of Dallas/Fort Worth, the council said on Wednesday, following the cancellation of his trip to New York City. The South American leader will speak to business and civic leaders at an event in Dallas hosted by the council on May 16, the council said in a statement. Bolsonaro's planned visit to Texas comes after his trip to New York was canceled as sponsors dropped out of an event set to honor him as person of the year. The organizers struggled to find a venue, under pressure from criticisms about his past racist, homophobic and anti-environment remarks. "Through events like this, we offer our members the opportunity to hear directly from individuals who hold positions of significance in the world," Jim Falk, chief executive of the local branch of the World Affairs Councils of America, said in the statement. "We look forward to hearing from the president of the largest country in the Southern Hemisphere and the fifth-largest country in the world." Another official cited in the statement said the council does not endorse the views of any of its speakers. Bolsonaro's office did not immediately respond to request for comment. Earlier in the day, Bolsonaro said at an event in the Presidential Palace in Brasilia that he was finalizing plans to go to Texas, tentatively for May 16 and 17. On Monday, Bolsonaro's official spokesman Otavio Rego Barros said the president had been invited by Dallas Mayor Mike Rawlings, something that Rawlings office denied. "Mayor Mike Rawlings did not invite Brazil's President Jair Bolsonaro to Dallas," a spokesman for Rawlings said by email. He added: "Mayor Rawlings will welcome him to the city, as is customary for the mayor to do for democratically elected presidents of major countries." That contrasts with New York Mayor Bill de Blasio who had openly opposed Bolsonaro's visit to the city, where the Brazilian-American Chamber of Commerce was to honor him as Person of the Year. De Blasio on Twitter praised the cancellation, saying the world must stand up to Bolsonaro's assault on gay rights and the environment. On Wednesday, Bolsonaro hit back, saying that de Blasio had "incited" the population against him, among the mayor's other efforts to "sabotage" his visit. (Reporting by Jake Spring and Lisandra Paraguassu Editing by Leslie Adler) Rio de Janeiro (AFP) - Brazil's ex-president Michel Temer handed himself in to police in Sao Paulo on Thursday, the day after a court ordered his return to prison. Temer, 78, arrived at federal police headquarters in Sao Paulo in a convoy of vehicles, two hours before a deadline. He was the second ex-president of the Latin American country to be caught up in a sprawling anti-corruption probe called Operation Car Wash that has claimed scores of political and corporate scalps. He is suspected of having been at the head of a "criminal organization" that diverted up to 1.8 billion reais ($460 million.) A Rio de Janeiro appeals court on Wednesday ordered Temer back to jail with "immediate effect," a court official told AFP, just weeks after he was freed by another judge. Temer, who is accused of leading a sophisticated embezzlement and money laundering scheme, was arrested in Sao Paulo in March and placed in "preventative detention" in Rio de Janeiro. But that decision was overturned four days later by another judge, citing a lack of legal justification. "It's an unpleasant surprise for me but I'll willingly turn myself in tomorrow," Temer said on Wednesday evening outside his home. "There's no basis to this incarceration. The judges themselves say there's no risk" of Temer fleeing the country or destroying evidence, his lawyer Eduardo Carnelos said. "The argument is that an example has to be made for society. This is another sad page in the recent history of Brazilian justice." Since 2014 the Car Wash probe has uncovered a vast graft operation involving state oil firm Petrobras and major construction companies paying bribes to politicians of several parties. More than 150 people have been convicted and hundreds more charged so far. Leftist former president Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva was jailed in April 2018 for bribery and money laundering as part of the Car Wash probe. Temer came to power in August 2016 after Lula's hand-picked successor Dilma Rousseff was impeached for alleged financial wrongdoing in office. He was succeeded by far right leader Jair Bolsonaro on January 1. Want to participate in a short research study? Help shape the future of investing tools and you could win a $250 gift card! I've been keeping an eye on The Scottish Salmon Company PLC (OB:SSC) because I'm attracted to its fundamentals. Looking at the company as a whole, as a potential stock investment, I believe SSC has a lot to offer. Basically, it is a financially-healthy company with a a great history of performance, trading at a great value. Below is a brief commentary on these key aspects. For those interested in understanding where the figures come from and want to see the analysis, read the full report on Scottish Salmon here. Outstanding track record with flawless balance sheet In the previous year, SSC has ramped up its bottom line by 97%, with its latest earnings level surpassing its average level over the last five years. This illustrates a strong track record, leading to a satisfying return on equity of 30%. which is an notable feat for the company. SSC's strong financial health means that all of its upcoming liability payments are able to be met by its current cash and short-term investment holdings. This implies that SSC manages its cash and cost levels well, which is an important determinant of the companys health. SSC seems to have put its debt to good use, generating operating cash levels of 0.91x total debt in the most recent year. This is also a good indication as to whether debt is properly covered by the companys cash flows. OB:SSC Income Statement, May 9th 2019 SSC's shares are now trading at a price below its true value based on its discounted cash flows, indicating a relatively pessimistic market sentiment. This mispricing gives investors the opportunity to buy into the stock at a cheap price compared to the value they will be receiving, should analysts' consensus forecast growth be correct. Also, relative to the rest of its peers with similar levels of earnings, SSC's share price is trading below the group's average. This supports the theory that SSC is potentially underpriced. Story continues OB:SSC Intrinsic value, May 9th 2019 Next Steps: For Scottish Salmon, I've compiled three fundamental aspects you should further research: Future Outlook: What are well-informed industry analysts predicting for SSCs future growth? Take a look at our free research report of analyst consensus for SSCs outlook. Dividend Income vs Capital Gains: Does SSC return gains to shareholders through reinvesting in itself and growing earnings, or redistribute a decent portion of earnings as dividends? Our historical dividend yield visualization quickly tells you what your can expect from SSC as an investment. Other Attractive Alternatives : Are there other well-rounded stocks you could be holding instead of SSC? Explore our interactive list of stocks with large potential to get an idea of what else is out there you may be missing! We aim to bring you long-term focused research analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. If you spot an error that warrants correction, please contact the editor at editorial-team@simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. Simply Wall St has no position in the stocks mentioned. Thank you for reading. LONDON, May 9 (Reuters) - Britain is concerned by Turkey's intention to begin offshore drilling operations in an area claimed by Cyprus as its exclusive economic zone, Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt said on Thursday. "Concerned by Turkeys announcement to begin drilling in Cyprus Exclusive Economic Zone," Hunt said. "This situation must be deescalated and all parties show restraint," he said. "Hydrocarbons development should benefit all Cypriots and support a settlement." Turkey and the internationally recognized Greek Cypriot government have overlapping claims of jurisdiction for offshore oil and gas research in the eastern Mediterranean, a region thought to be rich in natural gas. (Reporting by Guy Faulconbridge. Editing by Andrew MacAskill) LONDON, May 9 (Reuters) - Britain has a strong relationship with China but has expressed concerns about its cyber intrusion, a spokesman for the prime minister said on Thursday, after the United States warned London it should rethink its approach. U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo warned Britain it needed to change its attitude towards China and Huawei, casting the world's second largest economy as a threat to the West similar to that once posed by the Soviet Union. A spokesman for Theresa May said Britain had a strong relationship with China but said there were several areas where it had expressed concerns, including cyber hacking. Ahead of an announcement on whether to allow Huawei a role in building the national 5G network, he said if any security risks arose they would be assessed by the government. (Reporting by Kylie MacLellan; writing by Kate Holton; editing by Guy Faulconbridge) Gillingham (United Kingdom) (AFP) - Britain's main opposition leader Jeremy Corbyn warned frustrated eurosceptic voters on Thursday they were risking a "Donald Trump Brexit" as he launched the Labour Party's campaign for European elections later this month. Left-wing stalwart Corbyn urged supporters of a so-called no deal departure from the European Union to "think it through" as opinion polls show them flocking to the new Brexit Party ahead of the May 23 contest. The veteran Labour leader said the fledgling party founded by anti-EU firebrand Nigel Farage supported leaving the bloc with no deal, which would result in "an economic shock threatening entire industries". "It would be a Donald Trump Brexit leaving us at the mercy of a reckless and bellicose US administration," Corbyn told an invited audience in the suburban Medway region east of London. "It would be an elite Brexit that would only work for the richest. Those who want to deregulate, to slash public services, deny rights at work still further." Britain's Conservative government confirmed Tuesday that the country will hold the elections to the European Parliament following MPs' repeated rejection of Prime Minister Theresa May's EU divorce deal. Ongoing talks with Labour to pass an agreement have so far failed to break the deadlock -- leaving political parties on both sides of the Brexit divide gearing up for what has been described as a "zombie" poll because the government is still planning to leave the EU within months. Corbyn is pitching his party as the only one able to appeal to both Leave and Remain voters. Labour favours a permanent customs union with the EU, and under increasing pressure from its largely pro-European membership, has endorsed a referendum on any Conservative-led Brexit deal. But it has faced criticism for sitting on the fence over Brexit and it is unclear whether the party would back Leave or Remain in the next general election. Story continues Last week's local elections and polling show Brexit supporters in traditional Labour heartlands like northern England distrustful of the party's stance, with rising fears they could decamp en masse to the Brexit Party. Corbyn argued Thursday that "only Labour can see off the Farage snake oil in this election" as he urged such voters not to "let the siren voices of the far-right or the right in our society take over". Local labour campaigners listening to his speech said they had faced anger on the doorstep in recent weeks from all sides, and an appeal to logic may fall flat. "It's very emotive for both sides," said Simon Burton, 42. US actress and chat show host Busy Philipps has spoken about the abortion she had when she was 15. The 39-year-old, who rose to fame in Dawsons Creek, chose to share her own experience while discussing her concerns about Georgias six-week abortion plan, announced earlier this week. The new legislation effectively bans abortions after six weeks into a pregnancy, before some women are aware they are pregnant. In the latest episode of her talk show Busy Tonight, the mother-of-two shared her own story by way of illustrating her apprehension about the new law. US presenter Busy Phillipps talks about her abortion experience on her chat show 'Busy Tonight' [Photo: Instagram] After revealing that one in four women will have an abortion before the age of 45, she went on to talk about her own experience. I had an abortion when I was 15 years old, and Im telling you this because I am genuinely really scared for women and girls all over this country, she said. And I think that we all need to be talking more and sharing our stories more. READ MORE: Busy Philipps hospitalised for sunburnt eyes: What is photokeratitis? Philipps explained that she believes the new bill and others like it wont "stop anyone from making this incredibly personal choice," but they will "put more women at risk." "I know that people feel very strongly about abortion, but let me just say this: Women and their doctors are in the best position to make informed decisions about what is best for them," Philipps told the audience. "Nobody else, nobody." READ MORE: Couple's devastating decision to abort after unborn baby diagnosed with birth defect After the show, Philipps took to social media to explain why she had chosen to share something so personal on television. "I spoke about my abortion on my show tonight because I can not sit idly by while womens rights are stripped away," Philipps tweeted. Story continues I spoke about my abortion on my show tonight because I can not sit idly by while womens rights are stripped away. https://t.co/Vk4kh4ZBJq Busy Philipps (@BusyPhilipps) May 8, 2019 This isn't the first time that Philipps has spoken out about abortion and women's rights. In a previous Instagram post she has opened up about her experiences in a bid to highlight the importance of the support she received when going through her own decision making process at 15. This is about funding that provides VITAL services that save women's lives. PAP smears, breast exams, std screening, birth control, pregnancy prevention and counselling, she wrote. Planned Parenthood was there for me at 15, the counsellor encouraged me to talk to my parents and I am proud to be here for them today. Busy Philipps isnt the only one to speak out against Georgias abortion bill, Alyssa Milano has also up the pro-choice-rights cause. The topic of abortion can spark a divisive response, as illustrated last month when a woman took to Reddit to share how she was dumped out of an Uber taxi after the driver figured she was on her way to an abortion clinic. The actor Busy Philipps condemned Georgias six-week abortion ban, signed into law yesterday, on her talk show Busy Tonight by revealing the story of her own abortion at age 15. I had an abortion when I was 15 years old, and Im telling you this because I am genuinely really scared for women and girls all over this country, she said, her voice full of emotion. And I think that we all need to be talking more and sharing our stories more. Philipps was responding to the legislation, signed by Georgias Republican governor, Brian Kemp, on Tuesday, which would ban abortion at the detection of fetal cardiac activity as early as six weeks, before many women know they are pregnant. Similar bans often referred to as heartbeat bills, a term many gynecologists have called medically inaccurate have been passed in Mississippi, Ohio and Kentucky this year, and are being considered in several other states. The state laws directly challenge a womans right to an abortion as established by the 1973 supreme court decision in Roe v Wade, and are expected to be struck down by the courts. Philipps joined a growing chorus of female celebrities, including the actor Jemima Kirke and comedian Chelsea Handler, who have spoken publicly about their abortions to de-stigmatize the decision. No bill that criminalizes abortion will stop anyone from making this incredibly personal choice, but these laws will put more women at risk, Philipps said. Every woman deserves compassion and care, not judgment and interference when it comes to their own bodies. According to Guttmacher Institute, a reproductive health research center, one in four American women will have an abortion before age 45 a statistic Philipps referenced on her show. That number sometimes surprises people, she said: Maybe youre sitting there thinking, I dont know a woman who would have an abortion. Well, you know me. The 41-year-old son of U.S. President Donald Trump has been ordered to testify before a Senate Intelligence panel on the Russia probe.Trump jr was subpoena as the White House refused to release material on investigations into the president. It was the first known legal summons issued to a member of the presidents family to force testimony in the ongoing investigation. It comes after special counsel Robert Mueller declined to accuse Trumps 2016 campaign of criminal conspiracy to collude with the Russians. The Russia probe has plunged Washington into turmoil. A day after the top Republican in Congress called the Russia probe case closed, Trumps conflict with his Democratic opponents escalated to new heights as a House panel voted to hold the nations Attorney General Bill Barr in contempt for refusing to turn over key documents. Following a day of drama that included Trump asserting executive privilege for the first time in his presidency, the Republican-led Senate Intelligence Committee took the surprise step of issuing a subpoena to Donald Trump Jr to testify as part of its investigation into Russian election interference, US media reported. Trump Jr has testified voluntarily in private once to the committee, and was peppered with questions about a June 9, 2016 meeting at Trump Tower in New York that he and other campaign officials had with a Russian lawyer who had offered them dirt on Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton. Beijing (AFP) - A Chinese court adjourned a hearing on a Canadian man's appeal against his death sentence for drug smuggling without a decision Thursday in a case that has deepened a diplomatic spat between Beijing and Ottawa. Robert Lloyd Schellenberg, 36, was sentenced to death in January after a court deemed his previous 15-year prison sentence too lenient. His appeal hearing came a day after a top executive of Chinese telecom giant Huawei, Meng Wanzhou, appeared in court in Canada to fight a US extradition bid that triggered the diplomatic storm. The Liaoning High People's Court in northeast China said in a statement that "all procedural rights of appellant Schellenberg were guaranteed in accordance with the law". The trial has adjourned and the court will "select a day or time to pronounce the sentence," it said without specifying. His lawyer, Zhang Dongshuo, said it was "normal" for a sentence to be announced at a different date or time. Schellenberg's case is seen as potential leverage for Meng, who was arrested on a US extradition request related to Iran sanctions violations -- a link that Beijing has repeatedly denied. Following the Huawei executive's arrest in December, China detained former Canadian diplomat Michael Kovrig and businessman Michael Spavor, in what observers saw as retaliation. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has said that China had "chosen to arbitrarily" sentence Schellenberg to death. His government has pleaded for clemency. Ottawa said Wednesday it was "extremely concerned that China has chosen to apply the death penalty, a cruel and inhumane punishment". Canadian officials planned to attend Thursday's hearing. The Canadian embassy did not reply to a request for comment. - Canadians detained - Schellenberg was originally sentenced to 15 years in prison and a 150,000 yuan ($22,000) forfeiture in November. But following an appeal, the high court in Liaoning ruled in December that the sentence was too lenient given the severity of his crimes. Story continues About a month later, his sentence was changed to capital punishment. China has executed foreigners for drug-related crimes in the past, including a Japanese national in 2014, a Filipina in 2013, and a Briton in 2009. Last week another Canadian, Fan Wei, was sentenced to death for drug trafficking in a separate case in southern China. Kovrig and Spavor, meanwhile, have been denied access to lawyers and are allowed only monthly consular visits. Days after Canada launched the extradition process against Meng in March, China announced it suspected Kovrig of spying and stealing state secrets. It alleged fellow Canadian Spavor had provided him with intelligence. Meanwhile, Huawei's Meng was back in court in Vancouver on Wednesday, with her lawyers arguing that the US case was politically motivated. Her firm says she is innocent. Huawei is also in the US crosshairs as Washington seeks to convince Western nations to shun the telecom firm over security concerns. The diplomatic row appears to have has spilled over into the economic arena: China has banned Canadian canola and pork shipments worth billions of dollars. Ottawa has pressed Washington -- which is locked in a trade dispute with China -- to step up its pressure on behalf of the detained Canadians. China is a complex country. Its rapid growth and industrialization put it in the class of emerging nations, but its vast size lends it some qualities of a developed country. In just a few decades, China has accomplished "one of the most rapid and far-reaching transformations of a major economy that the world has ever seen," says Robert Horrocks, chief investment officer at investment firm Matthews Asia. See Also: 10 Stocks That Could Feast or Fall on China Trade China is already a global powerhouse, the world's second-largest economy and the biggest exporter of goods on the planet. Now it's in the throes of a new phase of economic development--one driven by technology and consumer spending rather than focused on manufacturing and infrastructure. Yet investors are skittish, and Chinese stocks struggled last year. In 2018, the MSCI China index sank 18.9%. One problem is that economic growth in the Middle Kingdom (a loose English translation of the Mandarin word for China) has been slowing. In recent years, the country's gross domestic product has grown around 6% annually, down from the 10% average growth of previous years. Trade tensions with the U.S. haven't helped. When it comes to China's growth prospects, investors' fears are "overdone," says Kate Moore, chief equity strategist at BlackRock. "China is in very good shape to continue to be one of the largest economies in the world," she says. Indeed, in early 2019, small signs of economic improvement and a positive step toward a U.S.-China trade agreement sent the MSCI China index soaring 22.2% over the first 16 weeks of the year. (Prices and returns in this story are as of April 19.) The wide market swings show that investors, reacting to the headlines on any given day, can "miss the forest for the trees," says Peter Donisanu, a Wells Fargo Investment Institute strategy analyst. The Asian powerhouse is on a long-term growth trajectory. "China still faces a long road to catch the most developed countries," says Donisanu. "It has only half started." Story continues The bullish take China's 6% GDP growth rate--the government's official target--is still robust relative to the rest of the world. It's three times the average for the developing world and 43% faster than other emerging nations, on average. China has a history of meeting announced growth targets, and "we believe they will deliver," says Moore. She adds that China watchers today have more tools to assess the accuracy of China's official data, including satellite imagery and even social media. "The tools and available data allow us to have greater confidence in our views around Chinese growth than we might have had a decade ago," says Moore. [PULLQUOTE] New initiatives launched in 2013 and 2015 are aimed at sustaining growth. One is focused on increasing trade opportunities between China and countries in Africa, the Middle East, Europe and Asia. Another fosters homegrown technological innovation, among other things. Beijing has proved to be nimble and speedy about "fine-tuning" policies to achieve economic goals, Moore says. That's one upside to having a centralized government. Decisions are made quickly, unlike in developed markets. The Chinese stock market has become friendlier to foreign investors, too, thanks to looser rules regarding foreign investment in China. In addition to the Chinese stocks listed on exchanges in Hong Kong and the U.S., foreign investors can now buy select stocks that trade on the Shanghai and Shenzhen exchanges, known as China A-shares. "In the last three or four years, the number of investment opportunities has expanded," says Andrew Mattock, lead manager of Matthews China fund. The country's second phase of economic development should resonate with global investors. Ten years ago, financials and energy were among the biggest sectors in the MSCI China index. Today, internet and other tech firms reign, along with financials and consumer goods and services. "Investors in the Western world can relate to these Chinese companies now," says Mattock. Tencent Holdings, for instance, is the Facebook of China; Baidu is China's Google; and Alibaba Group Holding is the Chinese Amazon.com. Still, the risks of investing in this sometimes-dicey market haven't disappeared. U.S.-China trade relations may be improving, but other tensions remain. "We expect U.S.-China relations to be tense even after a trade agreement is in place," says BlackRock's Moore. Competition in the global tech sector and cybersecurity are two hot buttons. Credit worries loom, too. The country's debt--including bank loans, corporate debt and government, state and private lending, plus shadow banking (lending by unregulated institutions)--now measures more than 200% of GDP. And there's the volatility. Emerging-markets stocks have always been rocky, but China stocks have been even more so. Brace yourself for corrections of 5% to 10% in any given year. "Investors should get comfortable with that. But they can use corrections to add to investments and hold for the longer term," says Moore. Ways to invest One way to cash in on China is simply to beef up your exposure to a diversified emerging-markets stock fund. After all, China makes up more than 30% of the MSCI Emerging Markets index. And in November, after MSCI completes the last of several changes to that benchmark, the country's fastest-growing firms will make up an even bigger portion of China stocks in the EM index. China is a big reason BlackRock strategists are bullish on emerging-markets stocks overall these days. "China is the key driver," says Moore. A growth-oriented investor might devote 10% of portfolio assets to emerging-markets stocks, says Wells Fargo Investment Institute. Such a bet represents roughly a 3% stake in Chinese stocks in your overall portfolio. Our favorite emerging-markets stock fund is Baron Emerging Markets (symbol BEXFX). Manager Michael Kass says he expects to see more-positive signals coming from China's economy and corporate earnings later this year. The fund has 33% of its assets invested in Chinese firms, and Alibaba and Tencent are its top holdings. But you might want to take a more targeted, and slightly heftier, position. The most aggressive allocation recommended by Wells Fargo, for instance, has nearly 6% in Chinese stocks (based on an 18% stake in emerging-markets stocks). Cambridge Associates, a Boston-based advisory firm, says holding 5% to 10% of total stock assets in China is reasonable, given the relative size of its economy and stock market in the world. Exchange-traded funds are another way to invest. IShares MSCI China (MCHI, $65), the second-largest China-focused ETF, with $4.7 billion in assets, offers exposure to Chinese stocks listed on exchanges in China, Hong Kong and the U.S. More-aggressive investors might consider SPDR MSCI China A Shares IMI ETF (XINA, $23). It has just $5.8 million in assets, less than we would prefer. But it focuses on the domestically listed A-share companies available to foreign investors, which Baron Emerging Markets manager Kass says include the country's most exciting investment opportunities. "That's where you're going to find the next Tencent or Alibaba," he says. Volatility is high, however. In 2018, the SPDR ETF lost 29.8%; the iShares ETF swooned, too, but only 19.8%. But the SPDR offering has rebounded faster and higher, up 39.4% in the first 16 weeks of 2019, compared with 23.3% for the iShares ETF. Investors looking for a smoother path into China should consider Matthews China Dividend (MCDFX). The fund invests in dividend-paying Chinese companies of all sizes that have healthy balance sheets and generate steady profits and cash flow. About 90% of all publicly traded Chinese firms available to foreign investors offer a dividend, typically paid once a year. Over the past five years, China Dividend returned 12.5% annualized. That beat 93% of all China-focused funds, with 21% less volatility. China Dividend's managers, Sherwood Zhang and Yu Zhang, build a barbell portfolio. On one end are shares in stable firms in mature industries with fat payouts but average earnings growth. CapitaLand Retail China Trust, for example, a real estate investment trust, pays a 6.4% dividend yield. At the other end, the managers buy shares in smaller, fast-growing companies that pay modest dividends. China Overseas Property Holdings, a property management firm, yields 1.1%. For its last full fiscal year, which ended in December 2018, the firm reported 31% earnings growth, says Sherwood Zhang. The fund's goal is a portfolio with an above-average dividend yield and above-average earnings growth, relative to the MSCI China index. We like Matthews China (MCHFX), too. Winnie Chwang and Andrew Mattock run the fund, investing mostly in large, growing firms trading at reasonable prices. They limit the portfolio to a trim 35 to 45 holdings because it pushes them to be more decisive about their investment choices. "If we're not 100% sure, we don't buy it," says Mattock. "You force yourself to do more work, and that tends to minimize mistakes." The duo travel in China extensively. Chwang and Mattock are based in San Francisco, but Mattock has visited some 90 Chinese cities. The idea is to glean investment ideas from 150 medium-size and large cities with 1 million or more in population. Since April 2015, the fund has gained 6.5% annualized, thumping the typical China fund's 4.3% return. The pair who run Fidelity China Region (FHKCX), Stephen Lieu and Ivan Xie, have been at the helm for only one year, but they have proved their mettle in that short time. The MSCI China index fell 3.3% over the past 12 months, but the China Region fund was flat, with a 0.3% gain. We prefer longer records, of course. But we think this fund, which also has 20 analysts worldwide behind it, is worth a look. Lieu and Xie, who are based in Hong Kong, look for growing firms in greater China that trade at reasonable prices. The companies must be economically tied to China, but they don't have to be headquartered there. Most of the fund is devoted to large firms with stable earnings, such as Alibaba and Tencent. But 25% of the portfolio is reserved for opportunistic plays, such as AirTAC International Group, a Taiwanese firm that builds pneumatic components for automated factories. The fund snapped up shares when the stock lost more than half of its value in late 2018, due to concerns over slowing growth in China. The stock has since rallied more than 70% from its 2018 low. See Also: 10 Top Dividend Stocks from Around the World EDITOR'S PICKS Copyright 2019 The Kiplinger Washington Editors Macee Hoffman found a job that supports her bringing her newborn baby to work. (Photo: Facebook) Customers at a cafe in Kansas are getting an extra dose of cuteness with their morning coffee, thanks to the three-week-old baby accompanying his mom to work as a cashier. Macee Hoffman just recently gave birth to her third child, Jesse. But already, the baby has gone back to work with his mom, who was obliged to find an employer who would accommodate her needs as a new mother after she was forced into unpaid maternity leave at her prior workplace. According to the 27-year-old, the restaurant where she had worked as a hostess wouldnt allow her to sit on a stool in between helping customers, despite having provided managers with a doctors note explaining that she needed to be off of her feet. Thats when, at seven months pregnant, she became unemployed, looking for a new way to earn an income for her growing family. Luckily, the owner of a local cafe, Cynthia Wilson, was simultaneously looking for a new cashier. I believe I was eight months pregnant when I started working for Cynthia at the Parsnipity Cafe, Hoffman tells Yahoo Lifestyle. It was shortly after that, maybe a week or two, when we talked about bringing the baby to work. Wilson told her local Kansas publication The Wichita Eagle, that she contacted Parenting in the Workplace Institute, a Utah-based group that helps employers around the country develop best practices for starting a babies-at-work program, to learn more about the state laws that they would need to work around. From there, Wilson and Hoffman went over guidelines and defined some ground rules that were put into practice when Hoffman returned to work with Jesse on Monday. I have other children that I have to take to school before I have to be at work. So after I get them taken to school, I get to work, Hoffman explains. If [Jesse] is not fussy, I get a few things done around the cafe before we open and then Ill get him out and feed him before we open. If hes fussy when I get to work I tend to his needs and then I get started on my stuff before we open. Story continues The Wichita Eagle additionally reported that Wilson agreed to care for Jesse if he gets too fussy while Hoffman is on the job. According to a post to the Parsnipity Cafe Facebook page, others have done what they can to help out, as well. Hoffman explains that its important to be able to bring her baby to work, since he needs to be at least six weeks old to start daycare, and childcare is very expensive. It's also important for me to be able to work because it's hard to live off of one income, she adds. My income along with my husband's usually gets us by on our bills for the month! And although the efforts of her boss, and her accommodating customers, havent gone unnoticed, Hoffman says that theres much more that needs to be done, on a larger scale, to help working mothers. Most small businesses can't provide paid maternity leave, Hoffman says. Until we get serious about this issue as a country and create policy that supports young families, parents will have to find creative solutions. Read more from Yahoo Lifestyle: Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest for nonstop inspiration delivered fresh to your feed, every day. Papi Rico reopens next week. | Photo: Steven Bracco/Hoodline The Castro's Puerto Vallarta-themed Mexican restaurant, Papi Rico (544 Castro St.), is set to reopen next Wednesday after an unexpected five-month hiatus for renovations. The restaurant's sudden closure in December came as a surprise to many locals, as owners Rick Hamer and Bill Vastardis had only opened it seven months prior. The pair also own the Castro's Finn Town Tavern (2251 Market St.), which opened in 2016. At the time, Hamer said the shutdown was needed for "plumbing, electrical, lighting and design upgrades," and that the slower winter season seemed like the best opportunity to make the changes. Given the unexpected nature of its closure, some locals wondered if Papi Rico would ever reopen. "None of us wanted this extended closure," said Hamer. "[But] it's an old building, and we try to do our best with the landlord to address the issues." Rick Hamer and Bill Vastardis. | Photo: Steven Bracco/Hoodline Some of those issues are ongoing. The restaurant softly reopened on Sunday for Cinco de Mayo, which was intended to serve as a kickoff to the summer party season. But the party was regrettably cut short after plumbing problems forced the restaurant to close. Hamer told Hoodline he's still working with the landlord to resolve the issue, in time for next week's planned full reopening. "Unfortunately, we're continuing to have plumbing problems with the landlord and the building," he said. Papi Rico closed December 18th for renovations. | Photo: Steven Bracco/Hoodline Hamer has made the best of the delays, using them as an opportunity to revamp the restaurant's interior and overhaul its menu. While the original concept was "more of a cantina," the new Papi Rico will have food "taking more of a priority and a focus," he said. New menu items will include lamb tacos al pastor, Mexican pizzas and vegan nachos. And based on neighbors' feedback, Hamer is launching a full weekend brunch service, with items like chilaquiles, huevos rancheros, and tres leches pancakes. Hamer has also spent some time revamping the cocktail menu. New options will include rose hibiscus margaritas, watermelon margaritas and palomas. Story continues Papi Rico nachos. | Photo: Papi Rico "We've done our version of street food," said Hamer, who expects brunch to launch about two weeks after the restaurant reopens. The tradeoff, he said, is that Papi Rico won't be continuing weekday lunch service. "The foot traffic in the neighborhood isn't where it should be" at lunchtime, said Hamer, who says he'll be evaluating it over the next 2-3 months, and may reintroduce lunch if there's enough demand. One of Papi Rico's new cocktails. | Photo: Papi Rico/Facebook The interior has also been redone, with the addition of a big-screen TV and art to help make the space feel more inviting. Artist Juan Miguel Carmona, who painted one of the original murals on the back patio, has added another inside. "We brightened it up a bit," said Hamer of the changes. "It's hard to make it more colorful, but we did." Artist Juan Miguel Carmona working on his new mural inside Papi Rico. | Photo: Carmona/Instagram Hamer's plan is for Papi Rico to remain open indefinitely, without another long winter hiatus though he may close over the holiday season to give his staff a vacation. No major themed events or parties are planned during the first few weeks after reopening, so the staff can focus on getting everything up and running again. But Hamer says he'll continue supporting gay softball and kickball teams, hosting parties and fundraising events. Papi Rico's patio. | Photo: Steven Bracco/Hoodline By the time Pride season rolls around, events will be in full swing, Hamer said. Until then, "we're focused on the food, drink and patio, and making sure that all are running really well." New hours for Papi Rico will be 5-11 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday, 5 p.m.-2 a.m. on Friday, 11 a.m.-2 a.m. on Saturday and 11 a.m.-11 p.m. on Sunday. The restaurant is closed Monday and Tuesday. Chevron Corp. is abandoning its $33 billion offer for oil driller Anadarko Petroleum Corp., the culmination of a month-long bidding war in which Occidental Petroleum Corp. prevailed over a rival five times its size. The most ambitious foray of Chevron Chief Executive Officer Mike Wirths tenure ended Thursday after the worlds third-largest oil explorer by market value elected not to sweeten an offer that fell out of favor with Anadarko directors. Chevron said it will collect a $1 billion termination fee and plans to increase its share buybacks by 25%. Anadarkos board embraced the Occidental proposal as superior on May 6, giving Chevron up to four days to come back with a revised offer. Anadarko was looking for Chevron to match or exceed Occidentals proposal, people familiar with the matter said Wednesday. However, Chevron indicated that topping its rivals offer was too risky. Winning in any environment doesnt mean winning at any cost, Wirth said in a statement. Cost and capital discipline always matter, and we will not dilute our returns or erode value for our shareholders for the sake of doing a deal. Chevrons departure leaves Occidental free to proceed with its $38 billion takeover of Anadarko that will double the acquirers daily output to the equivalent of more than 1.3 million barrels, on par with OPEC members Angola or Libya. The outcome also vindicates Occidental CEO Vicki Hollub, whose opening appeals to Anadarko were pilloried by prominent investors and analysts as an overreach. Chevron is entitled to the $1 billion breakup fee under the terms of its April 12 merger agreement, which it said it now expects Anadarko to terminate. An Anadarko spokesman didnt immediately respond to a request for comment. We look forward to signing a merger agreement with Anadarko and realizing value for our stakeholders as soon as possible, Occidental said in a statement. Story continues Chevron rose 3.2% to $121.26 a share at 8:56 a.m. in New York in pre-market trading. Occidental fell 5.8% to $56.72 while Anadarko dropped 2.6% to $73.90. Since the bidding war erupted publicly last month, Occidentals smaller size and financial resources relative to Chevron handicapped its pursuit of Anadarko. Houston-based Occidentals stock was seen as a less-robust currency than Chevrons, a defect Hollub cured by lining up support from Warren Buffett and Total SA, and upping the cash portion of her bid to 78% from 50%. For Chevrons Wirth, the focus now shifts to what to do with the companys $74 billion pile of cash and unused shares. One of the key attractions of Anadarko was its presence in the Permian Basin of West Texas and New Mexico, which has evolved into the worlds most prolific oil field. Replete with oil-exploration companies, the region may represent Chevrons richest hunting ground. Niger will from Wednesday observe three days of mourning for 60 people who were killed in a tanker truck explosion near the international airport in the capital Niamey, the government said. The days will pay tribute to the memory of the victims of the tragic accident that occurred early Monday as crowds had gathered around the overturned truck to collect spilled fuel, according to an interior ministry statement read out on state television late Tuesday. Earlier, security official, Hamani Adamou Abdoul-Aziz told state television the toll from the explosion would likely rise because several people sustained severe, life-threatening burns. Interior Minister Mohamed Bazoum said people on foot and motorcycle had rushed to the truck to take fuel when the blast occurred. According to witnesses, one biker failed to switch off his engine, causing a spark that ignited the 50,000 liters of fuel. The driver of the tanker truck has told investigators that an electrical failure caused him to lose control of the vehicle and its brakes. The truck overturned as he tried to bring it to a stop, senior police official Boubacar Rabiou Daddy told a TV station. Before the blast, people ignored police trying to keep them away, and threw stones at firefighters, he added. The massive explosion on the RN1 route near the international airport left the burnt trucks wreckage, motorbikes, and debris scattered over the road. Nearby houses were damaged by fire. About 40 people were reported injured, most of them in a very serious condition in hospital with severe burns. AFP BEIJING, May 9 (Reuters) - China is fully prepared to defend its interests in its trade war with the United States, but hopes the United States can resolve problems through dialog instead of unilateral steps, the Chinese commerce ministry said on Thursday. China has the determination and capacity to defend its interests, but hopes the U.S. can meet China halfway, Gao Feng, the ministry's spokesman, told reporters. China's Vice Premier Liu He is heading a delegation set to hold talks with U.S. counterparts in Washington on Thursday and Friday aimed at salvaging a deal, after U.S. President Donald Trump threatened to increase tariffs on Chinese goods on Friday. Reaching a deal requires effort from both sides, the commerce ministry spokesman said, adding that Liu's visit showed China's sincerity. China opposes unilaterally imposed tariffs, and there is no winner in a trade war, Gao said. (Reporting by Yawen Chen and Vincent Lee; Writing by Ryan Woo; Editing by Simon Cameron-Moore) By Robin Emmott, John Irish and Paul Carrel BRUSSELS/PARIS/BERLIN (Reuters) - The European Union will defend the Iran nuclear accord despite Tehran's decision to backtrack on its commitments in response to U.S. sanctions, diplomats believe, but European powers expect it to collapse without a deal to sell Iranian oil to China or India. Britain, France and Germany, which signed the 2015 deal along with the United States, China and Russia, are determined to show they can compensate for last year's U.S. withdrawal from the accord, protect trade and still prevent Tehran from developing a nuclear bomb. But with Iran's economy dependent on crude exports that are traded in U.S. dollars, a promised European trade channel to bypass American sanctions has proved complicated, is not yet operational, and may never be able to handle oil sales. "This situation now risks deteriorating, but it will be step by step and not a collapse all in one go," said a senior European diplomat. A French diplomat talked of a "negative spiral" in which trade in food and medicines was simply not enough, while another European envoy spoke of Iran's "phased exit" from the deal. The Iran accord, one of the West's biggest foreign policy achievements until U.S. President Donald Trump pulled out in May 2018, lifted punishing United Nations' sanctions on Iran in return for Iranian compliance with the deal. Iran has met its terms but Trump withdrew because he believes the accord did not curtail Tehran's ballistic missile program or address Iranian involvement in Syria's civil war, something Europeans argue the 2015 deal was not designed to do. By reimposing punitive sanctions, the United States says it aims to dramatically weaken Iran's clerical rulers and force Tehran to renegotiate a broader arms control deal. The European Union says that can still be done without tearing up the nuclear accord, which put strict limits on Iranian enrichment. Iranian President Hassan Rouhani warned on Wednesday that Tehran could resume enrichment at a higher grade if the European powers, China and Russia did not do more to circumvent U.S. sanctions on banking and energy to boost trade. FOOD, MEDICINE NOT ENOUGH European diplomats and officials reject any ultimatum and some believe they still have time to save the deal. One senior EU official said it is too early to consider European sanctions that can snap back in case of Iranian non-compliance. "Iran's announcements are not a violation or a withdrawal of the nuclear deal," the senior EU official said. "It is for the International Atomic Energy Agency to assess Iran's compliance ... if Iran breaches the agreement, then we would react." Others are more pessimistic. Once Europe's biggest supplier, Iran has seen its exports gradually cut off from European buyers by sanctions, starting last November and then on May 2, when Washington removed the last waivers to Italy and Greece. China, India and Turkey are also among those who lost their waivers this months. EU officials estimate Iran needs to sell about 1.5 million barrels a day to keep its economy afloat, but sales risk falling below 1 million a day, bringing hardship and potentially economic crisis to Iranians. The EU's special trade channel, known as INSTEX, was proposed by Russia as a barter system for Iranian oil in exchange for European goods, but it may not be operating before the end of June and its capability is limited. "Instex isn't the solution because it will only serve food and medicine needs, not oil," a second European diplomat said. "Anyway, the structure is not completed." CHINA TO THE RESCUE? Led by a German banker, INSTEX relies on Iran to set up a so-called mirror company that must meet international anti-fraud requirements. Officials and diplomats say progress is slow. Draft laws are still pending, while a lack of transparency in Iran's financial system is also a problem. The U.S. decision to sanction Iran's Revolutionary Guard (IRGC), which controls part of Iran's economy, is another complication. "As a partner to Iran, those who use INSTEX have to be extremely vigilant that at the other end of the operation it doesn't benefit entities linked to the IRGC," the European diplomat said. Europe's plan B is for China or India to buy Iranian oil. China, which increased imports of Iranian crude in April, says it opposes unilateral U.S. sanctions against Iran and will defend the rights of its companies. Foreign ministry spokesman Geng Shuang said the Iran deal should be fully and effectively implemented, although it was not clear what China would do to support it. India, Irans biggest oil client after China, has by contrast almost halved its Iran oil purchase since November. So far, Indian officials have said they will seek oil from other suppliers. EU officials say Delhi has expressed interest in joining INSTEX to buy Iran's oil, but discussions have barely begun, and questions remain about whether this is even feasible. "It shows Europe's impotence that they are pushing China and India to do what they can't," said Sanam Vakil, a senior research fellow with the Middle East North Africa Programme at Chatham House. "I'm not sure the Europeans are thinking in a big way about what to do. It's very clear there are no meaningful economic options they can offer Iran," she said. EU foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini met Chinese State Councillor Wang Yi on the margins of a China-EU summit in Brussels in April and discussed whether China could buy Iranian oil, three EU officials said. China can still do that but would risk U.S. sanctions. Beijing has also held talks with Washington over the issue, the officials said, but it was not clear how far they had progressed. "The Iranians say the Europeans must do more, but what about the Chinese and the Russians? They have not done much. The Chinese have dragged their feet in several areas because of U.S. sanctions," a third European diplomat said. Vakil said the three European powers should focus on high-level diplomacy to kick-start negotiations between the deal's remaining stakeholders and Washington to preserve the accord. "It will (die) without a mandated effort on behalf of the E3 to keep the deal alive," she said. (Editing by Giles Elgood) BEIJING (AP) Ratcheting up tension ahead of talks in Washington, China vowed Thursday to defend its own interests and retaliate if President Donald Trump goes ahead with more tariff hikes in a dispute over trade and technology. Beijing will impose "necessary countermeasures" if the increases take effect Friday as planned, the Commerce Ministry said. It gave no details but a ministry spokesman said Beijing has made "all necessary preparations," suggesting it might be bracing for worsening conflict. Trump threw global financial markets into turmoil with Sunday's threat to raise import duties on $200 billion of Chinese goods from 10% to 25%. Trump complained Beijing was trying to backtrack on earlier agreements. "If the U.S. tariff measures are carried out, China will have to take necessary countermeasures," said a Commerce Ministry statement. The spokesman, Gao Feng, said later that Beijing has the "determination and ability to defend its own interests." The volley of threats reignited jitters about global economic growth, prompting another round of losses on world stock markets. If tariff hikes go ahead, "risks of a financial market collapse, extreme risk aversion, and sharp slowdown in global growth will spike," said Philip Wee of DBS Group in a report. In early trading, London's benchmark FTSE 100 index dropped 0.5% and France's CAC 40 lost 1.3%. Hong Kong's main benchmark skidded 2.4% and the Shanghai Composite Index lost 1.5%. Tokyo's Nikkei 225 lost 0.9%. Before this week's acrimony, both sides said negotiations were making progress, which helped to stabilize financial markets. But economists warned a deal might be further away than investors hoped. Trump raised duties on $250 billion of Chinese imports starting in July over complaints Beijing steals or pressures companies to hand over technology. That includes a 25% charge on $50 billion of goods and 10% on $200 billion. Story continues Washington is pressing Beijing to roll back plans for government-led creation of Chinese global competitors in robotics, electric cars and other technologies. The United States, Europe, Japan and other trading partners say those violate Beijing's market-opening commitments. American officials also want Beijing to reduce subsidies they say violate Chinese free-trade pledges and to narrow its multibillion-dollar trade surplus with the United States. Beijing responded with penalties on $110 billion of American imports, but is running out of goods for tariff hikes due to their lopsided trade balance. China's economy czar, Vice Premier Liu He, was leaving Thursday for Washington, according to Gao, the government spokesman. Liu expressed hope the two sides will "meet each other halfway and care for each other's concerns," Gao said. However, he added, "at the same time, China has made all possible preparations." Chinese authorities already have extended retaliation beyond imports by targeting operations of American companies in China. Regulators have slowed down customs clearance for their shipments and delayed issuing licenses in finance and other industries. Beijing has an array of other weapons including launching tax, anti-monopoly or other investigations that can hamper company operations. Chinese leaders see industry development directed by the Communist Party as a path to prosperity and global influence. They deny their plans violate Beijing's trade commitments but have offered to change details that provoke the most foreign opposition. "China is not afraid of conflict," said the Global Times, a newspaper published by the ruling Communist Party's People's Daily that is known for its nationalist tone. It said Beijing has measures in place to "minimize losses" for its companies. "Mentally and materially, China is much better prepared than its U.S. counterpart," the newspaper said. Despite such bluster, factories in Chinese coastal regions that serve the U.S. market have been devastated. Industries including electronics that the Communist Party is promoting as China's economic future have suffered declines of up to 40% in sales to the United States. That has increased pressure on President Xi Jinping, who political analysts say faces criticism within the ruling party that he has failed to manage Trump. Chinese exports to the United States plunged 13% from a year ago in April and are off 9.7% since the start of 2019. Total Chinese exports sank 2.7% in April, well below forecasts of growth in low single digits. Imports of American goods tumbled 26%. Good morning. What is the social responsibility of business? The late Milton Friedman had a simple answer to that question: abide by the law and make a profit. But most big company CEOs have moved beyond that narrow framework. Our Fortune 500 CEO poll, which is still in the field, shows only about 5% of todays CEOs adhere to Friedmans view, expressed this way: I believe my company should mainly focus on making profits, and not be distracted by social goals. Roughly half of the CEOs aligned themselves with this answer: I believe my company has a responsibility to address social problems through charitable activities, but not as part of our core business strategy. And a solid 44%up 4 points from last yearchose this answer: I believe my company should actively seek to solve major social problems as part of our core business strategy. Fortune celebrates members of that last group with its annual Change the World list, compiled in partnership with Michael Porter and Mark Kramer of the Shared Value Initiative. I spent yesterday at the Initiatives annual meeting in Boston, where I interviewed one CEO who is passionate about social purpose: the Gaps Art Peck. Peck talked about programs his company supports to provide job skills to the disadvantaged, to provide life skills for struggling employees, and to recycle cotton in clothing. His key point was this: all three programs are not just good for society, but boost the companys bottom line by increasing employee loyalty, reducing turnover, and cutting supply costs. I asked: If the practices are so clearly profitable, why dont more companies adopt them? Resistance to change, he replied. Inertia is what stands in the way of creating companies that better serve the needs of society. Fortunes CEO Initiative is dedicated to fighting that inertia. Well be holding our annual meeting in New York on June 10 and 11. Among those attending: IBM CEO Ginni Rometty, Salesforce CEO Marc Benioff, Citigroup CEO Michael Corbat. If you are a CEO interested in joining, apply here. Story continues Final results from the CEO poll will be published in the June edition of Fortune magazine. More news below. Alan Murray @alansmurray alan.murray@fortune.com By Julie Zhu and Kane Wu HONG KONG (Reuters) - Chinese artificial intelligence (AI) provider Megvii Technology Ltd, commonly known as Face++, said on Wednesday it raised $750 million in its latest funding round. The funding raises start-up Megvii's valuation to slightly over $4 billion as it prepares for an initial public offering (IPO) in Hong Kong planned for later this year, said two sources with knowledge of the matter. Bank of China Group Investment (BOCGI) Ltd, the state bank's private equity arm, led the fundraising with $200 million, they said. BOCGI declined to comment on the fundraising. Macquarie Group, ICBC Asset Management (Global) Co and a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority, one of the world's biggest sovereign wealth funds, also joined the new round, Megvii said in a statement. Existing investor Alibaba Group also participated in this round, said one of the sources. Alibaba declined to comment. Megvii, also backed by Foxconn Technology, has enlisted Citigroup, Goldman Sachs and JPMorgan to work on its Hong Kong IPO, said the second of the two sources. Megvii declined to comment further on its fundraising or IPO plans. All of the banks declined to comment. Reuters reported in December that Megvii was targeting raising $500 million in a new funding round. The proceeds will be mainly used to strengthen Megvii's technology capabilities in deep learning, accelerate the commercialization of its AI-enabled solutions, recruit talent and finance global expansion, according to the statement. The fundraising comes amid Beijing's plans to build a ubiquitous closed-circuit television (CCTV) surveillance network and become an international leader in AI, a technology that is increasingly becoming key to various sectors. Chinese and foreign investors are pouring money into the sector given Beijing's emphasis on the technology. Investments in the AI sector surged to $2.1 billion through 88 deals last year, more than four times the total value in the previous two years, data from Refinitiv showed. Megvii's rival SenseTime Group Ltd has raised more than $600 million from SoftBank and its Vision Fund, valuing it in the most recent round at $7.6 billion. Last year, Alibaba invested for the first time in Megvii, which provides the technology for Alipay, Alibaba's online payment unit, to use facial recognition to make transactions, Reuters reported. Megvii Chief Executive Officer Yin Qi founded the company in 2011 with two friends from China's Tsinghua University, Tang Wenbin and Yang Mu. Megvii provides facial recognition and other AI technology to businesses including Alibaba, Ant Financial and Huawei Technologies and serves government entities and state-owned firms. (Corrects company name to Megvii Technology Ltd, not Megvii Inc, in 1st paragraph.) (Reporting by Julie Zhu and Kane Wu; Additional reporting by Shu Zhang; Editing by Christian Schmollinger) By Terray Sylvester PROMONTORY, Utah (Reuters) - Connie Young Yu says that when her parents joined a delegation of fellow Chinese-Americans attending a 1969 event commemorating the centennial of the first U.S. Transcontinental Railroad, they were snubbed, upstaged by Hollywood star John Wayne. Now 50 years later, she and others descended from Chinese immigrants who built much of the cross-country rail line are looking forward to the 150th "Golden Spike" anniversary in Utah for rightful recognition they say is long overdue. "It's our connection to and participation in American society," Yu, 77, a board member of the Chinese Historical Society of America in San Francisco, told Reuters in a recent interview. A three-day anniversary celebration is set to open Friday at Promontory Summit, 66 miles (106 km) northwest of Salt Lake City, where the Central Pacific Railroad from the west was joined to the Union Pacific Railroad from the east on May 10, 1869. Organizers expect about 20,000 visitors and dignitaries for a day of speeches, music and a historical re-enactment of 1869's ceremonial driving of the original last spike, cast in 17.6-karat gold, connecting the finished 1,756-mile (2,826 km) rail line. The festivities also will feature full-size working replicas of the two steam engines seen facing each other, nose to nose, in an iconic photograph from that day, with crewmen crowded around the locomotives toasting the occasion with whiskey. TRANSFORMATIVE MOMENT Initiated during the Civil War and taking six years to complete, the railway's construction transformed America's Western frontier, accelerating Anglo-European settlement of the vast region and aligning it politically with the Union states of the North. It also hastened the demise of the Plains Indians, as well as the bison herds on which they depended. Yu's great-grandfather, Lee Wong Sang, was a foreman on the 19th-century project, for which railroad contractors recruited thousands of Chinese, mostly Cantonese-speaking laborers from China's Guangdong province. Story continues They made up the bulk of workers for the Central Pacific, or western, segment of the railway, laying track and carving railbeds over and through the rugged Sierra Nevada mountains. They uniformly worked longer hours for less pay than their white counterparts on the Union Pacific, and performed the most dangerous work. There were no power tools. Virtually all work was done by hand. Untold numbers - as many as 1,200 by some estimates - perished in blasting accidents, snowslides, falls and other mishaps. "We Cantonese feel a pride that our roots are in these hardworking people who built this great iron road that connected America," Yu said, adding she will be speaking for all immigrants when she addresses Friday's event on behalf of the Chinese-American delegation. "I feel that our biggest contribution would be for social justice, and to define what being an American is," she said. SNUBBED AND EXCLUDED At the 1969 ceremony marking the 100th anniversary of the railroad's completion, Yu's father was then vice president of the historical society and her mother the only descendant of the railroad workers who was present. They traveled to Utah with the then-president of the historical society, Phil Choy, who was supposed to address the ceremony. Actor John Wayne ended up speaking in his place, Yu said. Karen Kwan, a Democrat in the Utah House of Representatives who helped organize this year's Golden Spike event, said plans for highlighting the contributions of Chinese immigrants was "righting a wrong." "Our names were not recorded by and large. We were not given the recognition that we should have been given," said Kwan, the first Chinese-American elected to Utah's legislature. "Asian-Americans as a whole are often thought of as perpetual foreigners." Yu acknowledged feeling "a bit nervous" in light of a resurgence in xenophobia and anti-immigrant sentiments that echo a backlash against the Chinese following completion of the Transcontinental Railroad. That hostility led to passage of the federal Chinese Exclusion Act in 1882, marking the first significant law restricting U.S. immigration. Remaining on the books until 1943, the exclusion laws drove many immigrants to alter their names and falsify family ties, playing a role in making it hard for Chinese-Americans to trace their roots, according to San Francisco-based historian Sue Lee. Other factors include a general lack of records listing individual Chinese workers by name and the fact that many returned to their homeland after the project ended, Lee said. Research organized by Stanford University has helped many overcome those obstacles in recent years, establishing a connection that for Chinese-Americans is equivalent to citizens of European descent who trace their heritage to the Mayflower, Lee said. "It's a cornerstone of Chinese-American history," she said. (Reporting by Terray Sylvester in Utah; writing and additional reporting by Steve Gorman in Los Angeles; editing by Jonathan Oatis) Choice Hotels Looks to High-End Travelers to Boost Revenue Choice Hotels plans to shift its focus towards higher-end lodgings in a bid to attract upscale business travelers. The hotel giant struggled somewhat last quarter, as revenue per available room declined nearly 1 percent domestically, driven primarily by flatness in its midscale and economy brands. Choice was also hurt by the partial government shutdown, the company said in an earnings call Thursday. Choice aims to raise revenue by expanding its footprint in the upscale segment, potentially with a new brand acquisition, as well as by upgrading its most popular midscale brand, Comfort Inn. One of our most successful initiatives has been growing our share in the upscale segment. We believe that our strategic focus on upscale will continue to evolve our portfolio and drive top line growth because of the revenue-intense nature of the brands, said Dominic Dragisich, chief financial officer of Choice Hotels. Total revenue for the quarter was $218.3 million, a 4 percent increase from the year before. The company stock declined about 3 percent after market open, but has since partially recovered. A single Cambria hotel one of Choice Hotels higher-end brands produces roughly three times the gross revenue of one Comfort Inn hotel, its most popular midscale brand, noted Patrick Pacious, CEO of Choice Hotels. I think as we look at acquisition opportunities, primarily we would look at segments that would be additive to our current portfolio. So thats in upscale, full-service and above, Pacious added. The hotel group grew its number of upscale hotels, from its Cambria and Ascend brand, by 12 percent this quarter, bringing the number of Cambrias up to 41. The company plans to grow this number to 84 Cambria hotels a total of 11,400 additional rooms in the near future, though it did not give a definite date. The company is also growing its extended-stay brand, WoodSpring Suites, opening its 250th location in Portland, Oregon last month. The brand has also signed 14 new franchise agreements in Colorado, Arizona, and Nevada, a geographic area the hotel group otherwise has little presence in. Choice plans to have 300 WoodSpring Suites throughout the country by the end of 2020. Story continues The company has even added special perks to its loyalty program, Choice Privileges, in order to pull in luxury travelers, something it plans to implement by the end of the year. It has partnered with AMResorts, a collection of luxury resort destinations across Latin America and the Caribbean. Upscale customers can earn points through the companys loyalty program, and redeem them at the resorts destinations. Comfort Inn Transformation Choice has tried to narrow the revenue gap between upper and mid-scale brands by undergoing major transformations to the Comfort Inn hotel. Over the past year, Choice has ramped up its efforts to raise the status of the brand, renovating the rooms, as well as changing the design of the signs. So far, over one-third of Comfort Inn locations have been upgraded, and the company said it is already seeing improvements in revenue per available room. However, the renovations at its hotels have impacted revenue forecasts, but the company expects revenue per room to pick up later in the year, once more Comfort Inn hotels have been upgraded. The hotel group also pointed to the government shutdown as a reason for lowered revenue, saying it put a damper on the number of travelers. The company has also invested heavily in technology, and has seen big payoffs in direct bookings from digital channels. In particular, mobile saw a 43 percent increase in bookings from a year prior. Choice has partnered with Google to allow guests to book on Book on Google. But the company still relies on its own proprietary cloud-based global reservation system, ChoiceEDGE. Overall, the company has about 570,000 rooms, with 78,000 rooms in the pipeline. This quarter represented the highest number of hotel openings for the first three-month period of the year since 2014, according to Dragisich. CORRECTION: An earlier version of this story incorrectly stated that the first quarter represented the largest number of hotel openings for the company in any quarter. It was the largest number of openings in the first quarter of the year since 2014. Subscribe to Skift newsletters covering the business of travel, restaurants, and wellness. BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (AP) Chris McNair, the father of one of four young girls killed in the 1963 bombing of a Birmingham church, died Wednesday. He was 93. His family confirmed his death Wednesday in a statement. McNair's daughter Denise was one of four girls killed when a bomb placed by Ku Klux Klan members ripped through Birmingham's Sixteenth Street Baptist Church on Sept. 15, 1963. Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin said in a statement that, "Mr. McNair and his family are forever tied to our country's civil-rights legacy." "When he tragically lost his daughter Denise in the Sixteenth Street Baptist Church bombing in 1963, his courage and fortitude fueled our march for peace," Woodfin said. "May we take comfort in knowing that Chris has reunited with his beloved Denise," Woodfin said. McNair became one of the first African-American members of the Alabama Legislature since Reconstruction when he was elected as a state representative in 1973. He later became a longtime member of the Jefferson County Commission. McNair was convicted in 2006 of bribery and conspiracy in connection with Jefferson County sewer construction and sentenced to five years in prison. He entered prison in 2011 but was released in 2013 because of his health problems and age. McNair was a native of Arkansas who came to Alabama to attend Tuskegee Institute. "We are grateful for the life and legacy of our father," said J. Christopher McNair. "He was a man who loved his family and this community. We ask for prayers and privacy as we prepare to lay him to rest," his family said in a statement. By Saad Sayeed ISLAMABAD (Reuters) - A Pakistani Christian woman who spent eight years on death row falsely charged with blasphemy has left the country, her lawyer and media said on Wednesday, more than six months after she was acquitted by Pakistan's top court. Asia Bibi's lawyer said he understood she had departed for Canada. Pakistani and Canadian officials have not officially commented on Bibi's reported departure, perhaps due to the sensitive nature of her case. Bibi's release in October sparked rioting by hardline Islamists, who rejected the Supreme Court's verdict and warned Prime Minister Imran Khan's government that she must not be allowed to leave the country. They also called for Bibi, who has been staying at an undisclosed location under tight security, to be killed. "I have inquired within available channels, and according to them she has left for Canada," Bibi's lawyer, Saif Ul Malook, told Reuters. Pakistani TV channels Geo and ARY, citing unidentified sources, also reported Bibi had left the country. Pakistan's foreign ministry did not respond to requests for comment. A Canadian government spokeswoman said in an emailed statement: "Global Affairs Canada has no comment." In November, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said his country was in talks with Pakistan about helping Bibi, whose family are believed to be outside Pakistan. She is widely expected to seek asylum and diplomats say she will have no problems. A statement from the U.S. State Department said it "welcomes the news that Asia Bibi has safely reunited with her family." "Asia Bibi is now free, and we wish her and her family all the best following their reunification. The United States uniformly opposes blasphemy laws anywhere in the world, as they jeopardize the exercise of fundamental freedoms," the statement said. Pakistan's Supreme Court in January upheld its earlier verdict to free Bibi, but Pakistani officials have worried that her sudden departure could trigger further riots. Story continues Islamists have criticising the government and the military for caving in to what they call pressure from the Western world. Bibi, a farm worker and a mother of four, was convicted in 2010 of making derogatory remarks about Islam after neighbours working in the fields with her objected to her drinking water from their glass because she was not Muslim. Her case has outraged Christians worldwide and has been a source of division within Pakistan, where two politicians who sought to help her were assassinated, including Punjab province governor Salman Taseer, shot by his own bodyguard. British Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt said it was "fantastic news that Asia Bibi appears to have left Pakistan safely." Hunt, who was due to discuss persecution of Christians with U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby, head of the Church of England, tweeted that Bibi's freedom "shows that with concerted effort the right thing can happen." (Additional reporting by Syed Raza Hassan in Islamabad and David Brunnstrom in Washington; Writing by Drazen Jorgic; Editing by Nick Macfie and Jonathan Oatis) London (AFP) - The Church of England "put its own reputation above the needs of victims" of sexual abuse by clergy, a damning report found Thursday. Its response was marked by "secrecy, prevarication and avoidance of reporting alleged crimes", an inquiry into abuse in the diocese of Chichester found. The report also criticised Prince Charles, the heir to the throne, for his "misguided" support along with others of Bishop Peter Ball, a prolific sex offender. In 2015, Ball admitted and was jailed for abusing 17 teenagers and young men while Bishop of Lewes -- part of the Chichester diocese -- and Bishop of Gloucester. He was arrested and cautioned by police in 1992 for gross indecency but the report said the Church allowed him to return to work "with indecent haste". The report was conducted by the government-created Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse (IICSA), which is examining institutions across Britain. "For years, the Diocese of Chichester failed victims and survivors of child sexual abuse by prioritising its own reputation above their welfare," said IICSA chairwoman Professor Alexis Jay. "Peter Ball is one example of how a senior member of the clergy was able to sexually abuse vulnerable teenagers and young men for decades," she added. "The public support he received is reflective of the Church's culture at the time; a support that was rarely extended to his victims." The Church's most senior cleric in 1992, then Archbishop of Canterbury George Carey, defended Ball in what the report said showed "poor judgement" and a failure to recognise victims' experiences. The report said Prince Charles also acted in a way that appeared to be sympathetic, including maintaining a correspondence with Ball for more than two decades after the 1992 caution. Given that the prince will be supreme governor of the Church when he becomes king, the report said his behaviour "had the potential to influence the actions of the Church". Story continues Charles later insisted he did not know the nature of the caution against Ball, but the report said he did not try to find out. A spokesman for the prince said Thursday that "at no time did he bring any influence to bear" over the case. "It remains a matter of deep regret to the prince that he, along with many others, was deceived by Peter Ball over so many years," the spokesman said. "His thoughts remain with victims of the abuse suffered over many years." The CIA and foreign security services are warning friends and colleagues of Jamal Khashoggi that their efforts to continue the pro-democracy work of the slain Saudi journalist has made them and their families the targets of potential retaliation from Saudi Arabia, according to individuals appraised of the threats and security sources in two countries. Three of those who were given security briefings in recent weeksdemocracy advocates Iyad El-Baghdadi of Oslo, Norway; Omar Abdulaziz of Montreal, Canada; and a person in the U.S. who asked not to be namedwere working closely with Khashoggi on politically sensitive media and human rights projects at the time of his killing inside a Saudi diplomatic facility in Turkey last October. Based on the security briefings, the advocates say they have been targeted because they have become especially vocal and influential critics of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, accusing him of ordering Khashoggis murder as part of a broader crackdown on Saudi dissidents worldwide. The CIA was the source of the threat warning, according to an overseas intelligence official, Baghdadi and others involved with the briefings. A CIA spokesperson declined to comment, but the agency has a legal duty to warn potential victims of specific threats including murder, kidnapping and serious bodily harm, according to a 2015 directive signed by the Director of National Intelligence. After Khashoggi was killed, the CIA faced criticism for failing to warn him after reportedly learning that the Crown Prince, known as MBS, had issued an earlier order to capture the journalist, who wrote opinion columns for the Washington Post. The CIA later assessed with medium-to-high confidence that the Crown Prince ordered his death. The nature of the new threat was not specified. Neither Baghdadi nor Abdulaziz were told that they or their families were in physical danger, either now or in the future, according to people familiar with briefings. But Baghdadi said he was instructed to take a wide range of precautions, including preventive measures to make it harder to hack their electronic devices in order to leak and weaponize the information against them. That tactic was used by Saudi Arabia against Abdulaziz, who is suing an Israeli security company, NSO Group, for selling Saudi Arabia the malware that compromised his cell phone, a breach documented by the University of Toronto watchdog Citizenlab. Story continues Iyad El-Baghdadi, Arab Spring activist and one of the leading voices on Islamic libertarianism, speaks at the panel discussion on Islam and Liberty at the 2017 Oslo Freedom Forum on May 21, 2017. | NurPhotoNurPhoto via Getty Images The advocates were also advised to avoid travel to a wide swath of countries in Europe and Asia where Saudi Arabia has particular influence, and to move family members out of at least one particular country, Malaysia. The three men who confirmed their warnings to TIME all work to influence public opinion both about and within Saudi Arabia, an arena that MBS has aggressively sought to control. Palestinian-born Baghdadi is renowned for his activism in the Arab Spring. He was granted political asylum in 2015 to Norway, where he edits the website Arab Tyrant Manual and has been working with investigators hired by Amazon billionaire Jeff Bezos, who owns the Post, to probe Saudi Arabias suspected role in a breach of Bezos cell phone. (The investigators concluded it did.) Abdulaziz is a Saudi dissident who was granted asylum in Canada. He has so substantial a following on Twitter that a McKinsey & Company report informed the Saudi government that in 2015 he was one of the three people driving the conversation about a Saudi policy on the platform, which carries great weight in the kingdom. In 2017 Abdulaziz and Khashoggi collaborated on an effort to secretly undermine the Saudi crowns grip on Twitter. Dubbed cyber bees, it involved providing foreign SIM cards to Saudi dissidents to post tweets without being tracked by the state. The third advocate resides in the U.S. and, like Baghdadi and Abdulaziz, worked closely with Khashoggi on projects that focused on providing more transparency in the Arab media and on social media platforms. Each of the men redoubled those efforts after Khashoggis death, using projects that the journalist had been working on to try and hold the government of Saudi Arabia, and the Crown Prince himself, accountable for his death. Agents from the Norwegian Police Security Service, or PST, first approached Baghdadi on April 25 at his home and took him to a secure location for a two-hour briefing, Baghdadi says. That warning, first reported by the Guardian, came about the same time as the warnings to Abdulaziz and the U.S.-based advocate, which have not been previously reported. Omar Abdulaziz poses for a portrait in Montreal. Abdulaziz, a 27-year-old Saudi opposition activist, is a close associate of the missing Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi. | The Washington PostThe Washington Post/Getty Images They did not describe the nature of the threat except to say that I had crosshairs on my back, that I shouldnt travel and that I should warn my family immediately, Baghdadi tells TIME. But my entire conversation with the PST from beginning to end was about the Saudis. And from the initial moment on, the fact the Norwegians have taken it so seriously is that it was the CIA that passed along the threat information. Abdulaziz, who has permanent resident status in Canada, told TIME he could not comment on his situation on orders from authorities there. Friends and associates, however, confirmed that Canadian security officials visited Abdulaziz at his Montreal home recently and provided a similar threat briefing, prompting him to go into hiding for at least several days. You can say that the Canadian authorities are taking care of the situation, said one person familiar with Abdulazizs situation. The U.S.-based associate of Khashoggi is also a pro-democracy advocate. He said his warning came from a U.S. security official who advised him not to undertake planned imminent business trips to Tunisia, Greece, Cypress and several other countries because there is chatter with your name on it, from the Saudis. The recent threat warnings coincide with a flurry of violent, repressive activity in Saudi Arabia after a brief charm offensive by MBS that Saudi watchers said was aimed at bolstering his support in Washington and other Western capitals. He retains the support of President Donald Trump who, arguing that arm sales to Saudi Arabia are more important, has discounted the CIA report on Khashoggis death, and in April vetoed a bill that would have cut off U.S. assistance to the Saudi-led war in Yemen. The embassy of Saudi Arabia did not return calls requesting comment. Canadian officials in Washington declined to comment on Abdulazizs case. As for Baghdadis briefing, Annett Aamodt, senior advisor to the Norwegian Police Security Service, said, The PST is not in a position to comment on contact we have with individuals or assessments we do around the security of individuals. One indication of how seriously Norway is taking the case is the involvement of the PST. Most threats against individuals are handled by local police, while the PST handles those rare cases in which people granted political asylum, like Baghdadi, are threatened by a foreign government with hostile intent, according to a source familiar with its operations. Baghdadi said that while he was alarmed by his initial visit from the PST, he wasnt completely surprised. In an interview the day before its plainclothes agents knocked on his door, he told TIME that Saudi insiders had warned him that MBS had become particularly enraged by his public criticism and that he had passed that information along to the PST. The reason I was told is that [MBS believes] Im hurting his reputation internationally, within the English language public sphere just as Khashoggi had been, he said at the time. I was warned that they have their eyes on you. The next day, Baghdadi sent TIME an encrypted message saying only that, Police showed up at my house and took me in for protection, theres been a threat. Ill be in touch as soon as I can. Keep private. Baghdadi went into hiding, and after surfacing lifted his request for discretion and described to TIME how two PST officers flashed badges and told him he needed to go with them immediately to a secure and sound-proofed facility to discuss an urgent and sensitive matter. They also said another team of security officials was trailing in a second car to make sure that no one was following us. Baghdadi, who has had subsequent briefings by Norwegian authorities, also believes he has been targeted because he and other activists have been quietly investigating efforts by MBS to silence critics through an escalating campaign of murder, blackmail and coordinated online smear tactics. Part of that effort became public in February when Baghdadi wrote a Daily Beast column disclosing how MBS was behind a smear campaign against Bezos in retaliation for the Posts aggressive coverage of the killing of its columnist Khashoggi. In his article, Baghdadi (who said he has no financial or contractual relationship with the billionaire), described how he and members of Bezos security team have been investigating MBS for possible connections to an effort by the National Enquirer tabloid to blackmail Bezos with publication of graphic below the belt message exchanges. Although much of that investigative work remains secret, Baghdadi told TIME that he understands he and his family have been targeted because the activists have shared their findings with Twitter executives in an effort to shut down abuse on the platform by an online army of trolls controlled by MBS. Over the past few days, several dozen Saudis have been arrested over the past few days and severely tortured, Abdulaziz said. And you can also see that Saudi trolls on social media are attacking Saudi dissidents and threatening them. I can confirm that the machine is still working, he said, of the Saudi efforts to suppress free debate and punish dissenters. The machine never stopped. Photo: iStock The number of crime incidents in Cincinnati saw an overall increase last week, after a previous decline, according to data from SpotCrime, which collects data from police agencies and validated sources. Incidents rose to 579 for the week of April 22, up from 464 the week before. Theft and burglary led the increase in crime incidents. Theft rose to 197 incidents last week, from 157 the week before. Burglary went from 33 to 58. Reports of burglary have continued to grow for the last three weeks. While somewhat smaller categories, there was also a sizable percentage increase in robbery, from 10 incidents per week to 22, and in assault, from 160 to 177 incidents. There were 89 reported vandalism incidents last week. That represents an increase from 78 incidents the previous week. Among the few types of offenses that saw a downturn last week, shootings went from five to two. There were 34 reports of "other" crimes, an increase of 13 from the previous week. SpotCrime's broad "other" category includes a variety of offenses like fraud, trespassing, public disturbance and traffic violations. Of those incidents, six involved arrests, such as for drug possession, down from seven reported arrests the week before. Considering the concentration of crime across the city, Westwood, East Price Hill and Walnut Hills had the most reported incidents last week. Westwood and Walnut Hills were at the top of the list the previous week as well. Westwood saw the largest increase; incidents in the neighborhood have been rising for four weeks in a row. Crime reports in Evanston also rose, after declining the week before, and incidents in South Fairmount are up considerably as well. Regarding when most crimes are committed, Thursday, Friday and Monday witnessed the most reported crimes last week. The largest increase from the previous week occurred on Friday, Thursday and Saturday, while incidents on Wednesday went down. Comparing times of day, late afternoon, late morning and evening saw the most crime last week. Story continues To report a crime in progress or life-threatening emergency, call 911. To report a non-urgent crime or complaint, contact your local police department. Head to SpotCrime to get free local crime alerts in your area. This story was created automatically using local crime data, then reviewed by an editor. Click here for more about our data sources and local crime methodology. Got thoughts about what we're doing? Go here to share your feedback. By Laila Kearney and David French May 9 (Reuters) - New environmental regulations in Colorado have chilled investment in the state's oil and gas fields as companies grapple with how local officials will respond to a law giving them more power to restrict energy production. Colorado now ranks fifth among U.S. states in oil production at about 500,000 barrels per day (bpd), up from just 90,000 barrels in 2010. That boom, however, has come just as state politics has shifted to the left with an influx of urbanites who tend to oppose fossil-fuel development. The Colorado law is one sign of pushback to the oil boom in the United States, which last year became the world's leading producer, overtaking Saudi Arabia. New Mexico, the state ranked third in production volume, has also sought to rein in energy development with new rules targeting emissions from hydraulic fracturing. California, another top producer, is considering legislation that would sharply curb oil drilling. Many states have opposed Trump administration efforts to expand offshore drilling near their coastlines, and environmentalists nationally have blocked or slowed new pipelines with protests and lawsuits. Colorado is "ground zero for a combination of oil and gas production, environmental stewardship and urban sprawl housing development," said Jack Hamlin, a board member for the Rocky Mountain Pipeliners Club, which is made up of about 3,000 energy industry workers in the region. All three interest groups, he said, are "fighting for the same space." Colorado's new law will allow counties and municipalities to make rules governing the distance oil wells can be from homes and schools and to regulate drilling impacts such as noise, traffic and pollution. Previously, local officials relied on the state and federal governments to regulate energy. The resulting uncertainty over how local authorities will use their newfound power has nearly halted energy deal activity, including acreage purchases. There were only five land transactions of negligible value in the Denver-Julesburg Basin in the nine months ended Mar. 31, down from nine deals worth $2 billion in the same period of 2016-17, according to consultancy Drillinginfo. Story continues ConocoPhillips tried to sell its Colorado acreage for more than $1 billion late last year but failed to find a buyer, according to three sources familiar with the deal. Conoco-Phillips declined to comment. Adams County in northeast Colorado, where drillers produced 3.6 million barrels of oil last year, has already launched an effort to examine "health and safety and welfare" from the local energy industry. The county "will need to look at air and water quality, preventing explosions and accidents, spills and truck traffic," said Steve O'Dorisio, a commissioner for Adams County, northeast of Denver. DODGED BULLET While some oil firms are fretting over the new law, others are relieved that another, more restrictive ballot initiative failed to pass in November. That proposal would have effectively put most of the state's land off limits for oil production by imposing bigger buffer zones between energy development and most occupied buildings. Companies engaged in Colorado energy production expressed a range of opinions about whether and how much the new law would impact their businesses. Hamlin, a Colorado native who owns an energy engineering company, opened a Wyoming office to guard against an exodus of energy companies from Colorado. More than 90 percent of his business has been done outside of the state in the months before and after the legislation's passage, he said. Oil firms "have no idea what impact it's going to have," Hamlin said of the law. "Businesses, they just don't invest in uncertainty." Extraction Oil & Gas Inc plans to remove acreage in Boulder County from its inventory of anticipated drilling sites because of the regulatory uncertainty, said acting CEO Matthew Owens on the firm's first-quarter earnings call. Owens stressed, however, that the firm could keep up its drilling pace by tapping fields in three other Colorado counties. SRC Energy, a Denver-based oil producer that produces about 45,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day, offered cautious optimism in its first-quarter earnings call. While the firm "does not support all parts of the bill," and acknowledges regulatory risks, the company plans to move forward with current operations, said Chairman and Chief Executive Lynn Peterson. Chevron Corp and Occidental Petroleum Corp are currently competing to acquire Anadarko Petroleum Corp , which holds more than 400,000 acres in Colorado. Executives from both firms have said they do not expect the new law to pose an obstacle. "We have no worries about what's happening in Colorado," Vicki Hollub, Occidental's chief executive, said on an analyst call announcing her firm's bid for Anadarko. Notably, Weld County, which produced more than 157 million barrels in 2018 - more than every other Colorado county, combined - said it would not adopt stricter rules. But that doesn't bar municipalities in the county from creating their own regulations. UNCERTAIN PATH AHEAD The next steps for the Colorado Oil and Gas Conservation Commission, the state oil regulator, involve amending its own rules to align with the increased focus on health and safety required in the new law. That process, which producers fear could curtail their drilling, should be completed by July 2020, said Chris Arend, a spokesman for the Colorado Department of Natural Resources. The commission will also be amending criteria for flagging permit applications for additional review when they raise specific concerns, such as a location near a school or a flood plain. The process will be applied to the 6,400 energy permit applications now in the pipeline as of February, many of which were filed by companies rushing to get ahead of the expected tightening of regulations. That compares with 2,600 pending permits in the same month the previous year. Cities and counties have no set timeline for enacting new rules that might curb drilling. Some, such as Adams County, slapped a temporary moratorium on new permits while they decide what to do. Broomfield, a city northwest of Denver, will likely vote on its own moratorium later this month, said Broomfield City Councilman Kevin Kreeger. Colorado Oil and Gas Association President Dan Haley called the new law "the beginning, not the end" of a new process for regulating the industry. (Reporting by Laila Kearney and David French Editing by David Gaffen and Brian Thevenot) Peak Place. | Photo: Corrie S./Yelp Looking to try the top beer bars around? Hoodline crunched the numbers to find the top beer bars in Colorado Springs, using both Yelp data and our own secret sauce to produce a ranked list of the best spots to fulfill your urges. 1. Peak Place Photo: Peak Place/Yelp Topping the list is Peak Place. Located at 2360 Montebello Square Drive, Suite H1, in Northeast Colorado Springs, the wine bar and beer bar, which offers coffee and tea and more, is the highest rated beer bar in Colorado Springs, boasting 4.5 stars out of 102 reviews on Yelp. 2. Il Vicino Photo: Il Vicino/Yelp Next up is Northeast Colorado Springs's Il Vicino, situated at 5214 N. Nevada Ave. With four stars out of 116 reviews on Yelp, the wine bar and beer bar, which offers pizza and more, has proven to be a local favorite. 3. 719 Gastropub Photo: Andi D./Yelp Northgate's 719 Gastropub, located at 162 Tracker Drive, is another top choice, with Yelpers giving the gastropub and beer bar four stars out of 95 reviews. 4. Tap Traders Photo: Tim H./Yelp Over in Central Colorado Springs, check out Tap Traders, which has earned four stars out of 51 reviews on Yelp. You can find the beer bar and traditional American spot, which offers salads and more, at 3104 N. Nevada Ave., Suite 100. 5. Trails End Taproom Photo: Kirk K./Yelp And then there's Trails End Taproom, a West Colorado Springs favorite with four stars out of 47 reviews. Stop by 3103 W. Colorado Ave. to hit up the next time you're in the mood. This story was created automatically using local business data, then reviewed and augmented by an editor. Click here for more about what we're doing. Got thoughts? Go here to share your feedback. Want to participate in a short research study? Help shape the future of investing tools and you could win a $250 gift card! We've lost count of how many times insiders have accumulated shares in a company that goes on to improve markedly. Unfortunately, there are also plenty of examples of share prices declining precipitously after insiders have sold shares. So we'll take a look at whether insiders have been buying or selling shares in Yantai North Andre Juice Company Limited (HKG:2218). What Is Insider Buying? It is perfectly legal for company insiders, including board members, to buy and sell stock in a company. However, most countries require that the company discloses such transactions to the market. We would never suggest that investors should base their decisions solely on what the directors of a company have been doing. But logic dictates you should pay some attention to whether insiders are buying or selling shares. As Peter Lynch said, 'insiders might sell their shares for any number of reasons, but they buy them for only one: they think the price will rise.' Check out our latest analysis for Yantai North Andre Juice Yantai North Andre Juice Insider Transactions Over The Last Year In the last twelve months, the biggest single purchase by an insider was when Zhi Long Ni bought HK$417k worth of shares at a price of HK$5.80 per share. That means that even when the share price was higher than HK$5.20 (the recent price), an insider wanted to purchase shares. Their view may have changed since then, but at least it shows they felt optimistic at the time. In our view, the price an insider pays for shares is very important. As a general rule, we feel more positive about a stock when an insider has bought shares at above current prices, because that suggests they viewed the stock as good value, even at a higher price. The only individual insider to buy over the last year was Zhi Long Ni. You can see the insider transactions (by individuals) over the last year depicted in the chart below. If you want to know exactly who sold, for how much, and when, simply click on the graph below! Story continues SEHK:2218 Recent Insider Trading, May 8th 2019 Yantai North Andre Juice is not the only stock that insiders are buying. For those who like to find winning investments this free list of growing companies with recent insider purchasing, could be just the ticket. Insider Ownership For a common shareholder, it is worth checking how many shares are held by company insiders. I reckon it's a good sign if insiders own a significant number of shares in the company. Insiders own 19% of Yantai North Andre Juice shares, worth about HK$360m. While this is a strong but not outstanding level of insider ownership, it's enough to indicate some alignment between management and smaller shareholders. So What Does This Data Suggest About Yantai North Andre Juice Insiders? There haven't been any insider transactions in the last three months -- that doesn't mean much. However, our analysis of transactions over the last year is heartening. Judging from their transactions, and high insider ownership, Yantai North Andre Juice insiders feel good about the company's future. I like to dive deeper into how a company has performed in the past. You can access this interactive graph of past earnings, revenue and cash flow for free . Of course Yantai North Andre Juice may not be the best stock to buy. So you may wish to see this free collection of high quality companies. We aim to bring you long-term focused research analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. If you spot an error that warrants correction, please contact the editor at editorial-team@simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. Simply Wall St has no position in the stocks mentioned. Thank you for reading. Asria Canada poses beside her brand new car as she prepares to graduate high school. (Photo: Courtesy of Asria Canada) A senior at a Florida high school whos been on her own since age 14 was surprised on Wednesday with a brand new car donated by members of her community. Asria Canada, whos now 18, told Yahoo Lifestyle that she was born into poverty, and her family struggled to keep food on the table and a roof over our heads. Canada said that she decided to live independently at 14 with her parents knowledge. It has been extremely hard due to not being able to have a job until I was 16 years old, she said. I at first lived with family friends, but I felt like I wasnt being independent enough, so I left and spent some nights on friends couches. I would either do some chores or, once I turned 16, I would start paying very cheap rent to whoever would rent me a room. Canada got a job as soon as she turned 16, she told ABC 10, and has been working ever since toward getting her own apartment and being self-sufficient, which includes graduating River Ridge High School in New Port Richey this year. She told Yahoo Lifestyle she hopes to attend nearby Pasco-Hernando State College (PHSC), but paying tuition could present another obstacle. So Canada decided to turn to Marjories Hope, a charitable organization that works to build a strong foundation for children in the community by helping to provide tangible things that are necessary for success. The nonprofit, which Canada learned about from her career specialist Mrs. Peterson, decided that a means of transportation for the college-bound teen would be crucial but they kept their plan a secret from Canada. I wrote in my essay to Marjories Hope how I struggled getting to school at times, how living as independently as possible has made it hard for me to achieve in school, Canada told Yahoo Lifestyle. Unbeknownst to the teen, a few of her teachers were recruited to carry out the surprise. Mrs. Peterson was in on it asking me how I get to school everyday, she said. Mrs. McConnell asked my class if we had our IDs or drivers licenses to see if I would even be able to drive the car. Story continues When they knew the plan was viable, Marjories Hope teamed up with Georges Wholesale Tire Pros and Friendly Kia to donate a new car to Canada. They presented the surprise to the teen with red ribbons attached as well as a free six months of auto insurance and oil changes, according to ABC 10. I was shocked and really emotional, Canada said of being presented with the gift. I tried getting a car before but it broke down on me before I was able to register it in my name, so it really meant a lot to me. She has overcome a lot of stuff already in her life. I remember when I got my first car. It was $250, said John Gilliss of Friendly Kia to ABC 10. Her story just touched our hearts, and to have that much tenacity and perseverance, added Debi Shackowsky of Marjories Hope. Shes been on her own since the age of 14 and couch hopped and sometimes didnt know how she was even going to get to school. She said that the organization also gave Canada a scholarship worth $2,000. Canada will be able to drive her brand new wheels to her new job at McDonalds, she told Yahoo Lifestyle. After getting her Associates degree at PHSC, she also plans to drive to a 4-year college to complete her degree in atmospheric science and eventually become a meteorologist. You will be able to succeed, the teen said, as long as you try. Read more from Yahoo Lifestyle: Follow us on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter for nonstop inspiration delivered fresh to your feed, every day. Representative Elise Stefanik can pinpoint the moment that crystallized the issue for her: It was the week after the midterm elections, and the newly elected members of the House of Representatives lined up for a photo. Representing the Democratic side of the aisle were more than 30 women. On the GOP side were twoCarol Miller of West Virginia and Young Kim of California. Stefanik knew what could have been. I recruited over 100 women, she says, reflecting on her time as recruitment chair for the National Republican Congressional Committee (NRCC). But looking at the freshmen on the Capitol steps, she saw whom her party was welcoming in 2019: almost all white men. And within days, mail-in ballots showed that Kim had actually lost, bringing the grand total for House GOP freshmen women to one. That was a stark, stark wake-up call, Stefanik says. She stood up at a meeting with her fellow House Republicans shortly after the election. Take a look around,' she recalls telling them in the basement of the Capitol. This is not reflective of the American public. And you need to do something about it.' She wasnt willing to wait. As we sit in her office on Capitol Hill, the topic is E-PAC, the political action committee she officially relaunched in January to focus solely on recruiting women and helping them win. Her initial aim was to raise $100,000; as of April 1, according to a spokesperson, she had raised over $285,000. Her office declined to provide a set number of women she intends to recruit beyond expressing a desire to exceed last cycles 100. Stefaniks determination is clear: Prominent among the mementos from her upstate New York district is a black and gold plaque. it CAN be done, it reads. Its the same quote President Reagan kept on his desk in the Oval Office. I cant tell you how many times I am the only woman at a table, she says. I want more to have a seat at the table. Story continues Stefanik, 34, rose to prominence in 2014, when she became the youngest woman ever elected to Congress, a feat since eclipsed by two arriving Democrats. But she never planned to make gender parity her project. I wasnt running because of a lack of womens leadership, she says. I ran because, just in general, I felt the party needed a new voice, a new generation of leadership, and my district needed someone more energetic to bring results. Raised in the greater Albany area, she became interested in a career in politics as an undergraduate at Harvard while working as a student liaison for John F. Kennedy adviser Ted Sorensen, who was a fellow there. Although they had different political views, the experience was formative enough for her to eschew the consulting and finance jobs most of her classmates were pursuing. Instead, she headed to Washington, where she worked as a policy adviser in the George W. Bush White House. In 2012 she worked on Mitt Romneys presidential campaign, managing the debate preparation of his vice-presidential pick, Paul Ryan. At the time, Ryan was a Congressman in his early 40s who, after being elected at 29, had ascended the party ranks to chair the House Budget Committee. It really struck me that as a young person, as a rank-and-file member of Congress who was elected in his late 20s, he was able to shape a lot of the national discourse because he had the courage to put forth new ideas, she says. He talked about issues like debt from a generational perspective. Her work with Ryan made her confident that she too could offer a different way of thinking, and she moved back to New York to run in the 21st District. In the tough primary that followed, she had support from Ryan as well as female Republicans she now considers mentors, like Representative Ann Wagner and then Representative Diane Black. She also benefited from roughly $1 million in funding from American Crossroads, the super PAC backed by former George W. Bush adviser Karl Rove. But she says many members of Congress, including the NRCC leadership, were tepid about her candidacy. There was a knee-jerk reaction that I didnt fit the mold of a typical congressional candidate, she says. She won anyway. For her first two terms, Stefanik mostly kept her head down, forgoing national media appearances and focusing primarily on legislative priorities that would directly benefit her district. Although shes bucked her party several times on policy, most notably on tax reform and climate change, in recent months she seems even less willing to accept the status quo. When Representative Tom Emmer, who now chairs the NRCC, said she would be making a mistake endorsing candidates in the primariessomething the NRCC pointedly does not dobut that she could do what she wanted, she fired back with a tweet containing four siren emojis: But NEWSFLASH I wasnt asking for permission. The two are now on good terms, she says, and Emmer appeared onstage for her PACs kickoff event. When Elise talks, people listen, says Representative Susan Brooks, the new NRCC recruitment chair. Asked if the party would be focused on increasing diversity if not for Stefanik, Brooks pauses and chuckles. She did light the fire, she says. We might have studied it longer, reflected longer, griped about it longer but she, quickly after we lost, stepped up. To usher more women into office, Stefanik plans to not only recruit them but also help them develop into viable candidates. Shes laid out a set of metrics they must meet to receive the PACs support, like reaching a fundraising threshold and building a basic campaign infrastructure. Although Stefanik wont announce her first slate until the fall, her spokesperson said the PAC has given the maximum allowable contribution to Kim, who is running again, as well as Nicole Malliotakis in New York, Karen Handel in Georgia and Joan Perry in North Carolina. Being a Republican woman seeking a House seat isnt enough, Stefanik says. Shes looking for women we can help get across the finish line. Shes heard the criticism: Isnt she engaging in the identity politics that conservatives so often object to? Thats a pushback Im getting, she says. I think identity politics is a very outdated term. As she explains it, she just wants elected officials to better reflect the voters. I think the Democrats were strategic in putting up district-specific candidates that would resonate in different parts of the country, whether its urban areas, whether its people that have interesting narratives with a national-security background or interesting perspectives as working mothers, she says. We need to recognize we should be doing that as well. Shes not calling for a reassessment of the partys principles. She simply believes that female officials, whether from ruby red or swing districts, can bring a fresh perspective to tackling the issues affecting American families and women specifically. She points to the gender pay gap as one example. Democrats, she says, have put forward the Paycheck Fairness Act for decades. But the day before we spoke, she proposed her own plan to combat the problem: the Wage Equity Act, which attempts to balance the interests of businesses and employees. Its not a surprise that came from a female member who wanted to think differently about how we [fix] this problem, she says. Stefanik knows it will likely take time to see a real shift in the breakdown of her partys Representatives. But she doesnt intend to shy away from the challenge. If she does her job right, the next freshman class will look very different. Police this week arrested an alleged arsonist who started a fire outside the National Archives building in Washington, claiming that voices told him to burn buildings down. The archives display a four-page handwritten document to countless tourists and schoolchildren: the US constitution. While the physical object remains fragile but secure, the political framework it represents is facing one of the severest threats in its 232-year history. The arsonist is Donald Trump and he is getting ever closer with his tiki torch. Related: House Democrats vote to hold attorney general Barr in contempt of Congress On Wednesday, the House judiciary committee voted to hold the presidents attorney general, William Barr, in contempt of Congress. It was a seminal moment in Democrats legal battle with the White House over access to the special counsel Robert Muellers report on how Russia helped Trump win the 2016 election. In response, Trump for the first time invoked the principle of executive privilege, claiming the right to block members of Congress from reading the full Mueller report. The committee chairman, Jerry Nadler of New York, declared the action a clear sign of the presidents blanket defiance of Congresss constitutional right to conduct oversight. We are now in a constitutional crisis, Nadler told reporters after the hearing. Now is the time of testing whether we can keep our republic, or whether this republic is destined to change into a different, more tyrannical form of government. We must resist this. It did not take long for the hashtag #ConstitutionalCrisis to trend on Twitter. Hyperbole? Republicans and their allies naturally think so. The justice department spokeswoman Kerri Kupec accused Nadler and co of inappropriate political theatrics. Geraldo Rivera, a broadcaster on Fox News, tweeted more bluntly: Anti- @realDonaldTrump pundits & critics have been using the phrase #ConstitutionalCrisis so often over the last 2+ years-It is now seen as alarmist bullshit. Story continues The House judiciary committee chairman, Jerrold Nadler, presiding over Tuesdays vote. The House judiciary committee chairman, Jerry Nadler, presiding over Tuesdays vote.Photograph: Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images It is true that, from the day he won election, there has been hysteria about the 45th president, or what his supporters like to call Trump derangement syndrome. So far he has not jailed journalists, declared martial law or invaded Iraq; institutions have bent rather than broken; the sky has not fallen in. Conventional wisdom has been that, while displaying the authoritarian tendencies of a dictator, Trump lacks the guile to pull it off. Two centuries worth of checks and balances should, in theory, be enough to contain him. Yet this time is different. Alarm bells not heard before are ringing. Not because Trump has got worse he doesnt but because events have forced the matter to a head. Democrats won a majority in the House of Representatives in last Novembers midterm elections, obliging them to wheel out a subpoena cannon and end the Trump honeymoon in Washington. Then Mueller produced his long-awaited report, chronicling 10 incidents in which Trump may have attempted to obstruct justice but stopping short of indictment, an unsatisfactory conclusion that made all-out political war inevitable. Dismayingly, Barr has behaved like a political stooge, the sort of apologist one would expect in a slow-moving coup. Now Trumps assertion of executive privilege a move normally designed to protect the confidentiality of the Oval Office decision-making process to hide part of the report and its underlying evidence seems baseless, intended only to trigger a long court battle and run down the clock to election day in November 2020. Laurence Tribe, a constitutional law professor at Harvard Law School, says: This is more than minor fireworks. Its a fundamental challenge to the structure of checks and balances. In particular, the presidents wholesale, blunderbuss assertion of executive privilege over the entirety of the Mueller report is legally groundless to the point of being preposterous. What we are seeing is a systemic attack on checks and balances Kurt Bardella The redacted portions of the report and the underlying masses of evidence the only items not already in the public domain include vast amounts of material that cannot conceivably be described as subject to any of the several forms of executive privilege as that privilege was defined in the Nixon tapes case ... This reckless invocation of executive privilege gives the whole concept a stench of coverup, a sad fate for an important principle with a number of entirely valid applications. Trump is doing what he always does: defying long-established norms through brute force of will. It was impossible to insult a war veteran like John McCain and get away with it, yet he did. It was impossible to be caught on film bragging about groping women and survive, and yet he did. It was impossible for a president to behave like an absolute monarch and ignore Congress as a co-equal branch of government, and yet he will. So the White House rejects all congressional efforts to investigate Trumps business dealings or tax returns as well as the West Wings security clearance procedure. It defies a subpoena for the former counsel Don McGahn to turn over documents. Trump says he does not want Mueller to testify on Capitol Hill. All this in the context of a record 58 days without a White House press briefing, a president who constantly attacks the FBI and other institutions and a cable news channel, Fox, that feeds millions of people news from a parallel universe. Donald Trump seems content to merely stall until the 2020 election. Donald Trump seems content to merely stall until the 2020 election.Photograph: Brendan Smialowski/AFP/Getty Images Writing in the New York Times on Tuesday, the columnist Thomas Friedman noted how, like the spoon-bender Uri Geller, this president bends people to do his bidding. What worries me most right now is that if Trump gets a second term hell also bend all the key institutions that govern us, Friedman wrote. Already hes softening the steel in many of them so they can be bent more easily. Trump used to joke about changing the constitution so he could be president for life. The other day he claimed that two years of his presidency had been stolen by the drama over Russian collusion and seemed to endorse the idea of a two-year extension as compensation. Perhaps he was still joking. The House speaker, Nancy Pelosi, meanwhile, has warned that if the president narrowly loses next years election, he will not voluntarily give up power. It seems a safe enough prediction. The constitution is well-protected but not fireproof. Kurt Bardella, the former spokesperson and senior adviser for the House oversight and government reform committee, says: What we are seeing from the Trump administration is a systemic attack on checks and balances that threatens the constitutional balance that our founding fathers established. Without a co-equal branch of government to hold the executive branch accountable, we are less of a democracy and more of a dictatorship. This is the most important fight of our republics life and if we lose it, we lose the entire idea of American democracy. May 9 (Reuters) - Panama's Copa Airlines said on Thursday it has "full confidence" in its Boeing 737 MAX planes, which have been grounded worldwide since March after two fatal crashes. Copa CEO Pedro Heilbron said in a call with analysts that he expected the planes to fly again after the end of July, although he said he would have more certainty on a date after the end of May. (Reporting by Marcelo Rochabrun Editing by Paul Simao) By Nelson Acosta and Sarah Marsh HAVANA, May 9 (Reuters) - Cubans were dismayed on Thursday to learn Canada's embassy in Havana was no longer processing visa applications due to staffing cutbacks over unexplained health incidents among Canadian and U.S. diplomats in the Cuban capital. Canada, which in January reduced its embassy to skeletal staffing, announced on Wednesday it would no longer process applications for visitor and residence visas or work and study permits. The U.S. Embassy had already reduced staffing and stopped processing visa applications in 2017. Cubans have been forced to go to third countries for them, adding expense and difficulty. Canada said in a statement that Cubans could apply for a visa at an embassy in a third country or online but it was not clear if Cubans always had to pick them up abroad. Canada's foreign ministry did not immediately reply to a request for comment. "It's terrible. Now I have to go to another country to try visit my sister in Canada," said Rossana Real, 52. Her sister emigrated more than a decade ago, and Real tries to visit her regularly. Canadian and U.S. diplomats posted in Havana began complaining of unexplained dizziness, headaches and nausea in the spring of 2017. The cause of the mysterious illnesses has not been determined. Hopes have dwindled for investigations to find a cause of the incidents. U.S. officials have accused Cuba of failing to keep diplomats safe, but Cuba has denied involvement and says anti-Castro politicians in Washington have manipulated the matter. But Canada has good relations with Cuba. For decades it has been the Caribbean island's most important tourism market and is an important economic partner. More than a million Canadians visited Cuba last year. "We never had problems with Canada," said Real. "This really surprised me." The embassy situation is an added frustration for Cubans at a time that reforms to the beleaguered, centrally-planned economy have stalled. Story continues While relations with Europe are steadily improving, they have plummeted with the United States and former Latin American allies like Brazil whose governments swung to the right. A decline in aid from embattled ally Venezuela and a tighter U.S. trade embargo have resulted in shortages of even basic goods like eggs and flour. Travel to the United States had already become an odyssey; now even travel to old ally Canada has become difficult. "I would like to see my daughter and her husband but now I can't," said Hilda Pereira, 80, who arrived at the embassy with a granddaughter and was surprised to find it shut to the public. "If I can't go directly to Canada, I won't go." (Reporting by Nelson Acosta and Sarah Marsh in Havana Additional Reporting by David Ljunggren in Ottawa; Editing by David Gregorio) SIBIU, Romania (AP) The European Union "stands united" with Cyprus, a top official from the bloc said Thursday, after the Cypriot president blasted Turkey's bid to drill for gas in waters where the east Mediterranean island nation has exclusive economic rights as a "new invasion." European Council President Donald Tusk, who chairs meetings of EU leaders, said the bloc "expects Turkey to respect the sovereign rights of EU member states" and would continue to closely monitor the situation. His message of support at an informal summit of EU leaders in the central Romanian town of Sibiu came after Cyprus' president raised the issue. President Nicos Anastasiades described the Turkish drilling bid as "by far the most serious violation of Cyprus' sovereign rights in a very long time" and an "unprecedented escalation of illegal action" in the eastern Mediterranean. "Essentially, these actions are tantamount to a new invasion of Cyprus by Turkey after the tragic events of 1974," he said. Turkey invaded Cyprus in 1974 in response to an abortive coup by supporters of uniting the island with Greece. A breakaway Turkish Cypriot state in the north is recognized only by Turkey. Ankara does not recognize Cyprus as a state and says part of Cyprus' exclusive economic zone falls within its own continental shelf. Anastasiades said Turkey was "failing to live up to its obligations" as an aspirant EU member. The waters around Cyprus have huge potential and have attracted the likes of ExxonMobil, France's Total and Italy's Eni. Sizeable natural gas deposits have so far been found in three offshore areas. Cyprus says any future gas proceeds will be shared equitably with Turkish Cypriots after a deal is reached to reunify the island. German Chancellor Angela Merkel said Anastasiades "had asked us to represent Cyprus' interests when there's contact with Turkey. We will do so." The issue of potential sanctions on Turkey was not discussed, she said. Story continues Cypriot authorities say the Turkish drillship Fatih is anchored about 68 kilometers (42 miles) off the southwestern Cypriot town of Paphos and escorted by support ships and a Turkish navy frigate. Drilling hasn't started yet. Turkey denies its actions are illegal and provocative. The country's foreign minister, Mevlut Cavusoglu, said earlier this week that Turkey was acting in accordance with international law and that a second drillship would be dispatched to the area. Speaking after the summit, Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras stressed the issue was "not an internal issue of Cyprus" or a bilateral issue between Cyprus and Turkey, "but a European one." "Europe's international geopolitical role cannot be credible if, first of all, it doesn't ensure the adherence to international law within itself," Tsipras said. He said he had asked for the next summit after the European parliamentary elections between May 23-26 to tackle the issue and take whatever measures are necessary "if this unilateral provocative behavior and unilateral violation of international law continues." ___ Hadjicostis contributed from Nicosia, Cyprus. Photo: iStock The number of crime incidents in Dallas saw an overall increase for the week of April 26 to May 2, after a previous decline, according to data from CrimeoMeter, which collects data from police agencies and validated sources. Incidents rose to 2,265 in the latest seven-day period of available police reports, up from 2,124 the week before. The specific offenses that increased the most were theft and auto theft. Theft rose to 421 incidents, from 395 the week before. Auto theft went from 177 to 200. While somewhat smaller categories, there was also a considerable percentage increase in robbery, from 60 incidents per week to 80, and in fraud or financial crimes, from 30 to 43 incidents. There were 170 reported assault incidents. That represents an increase from 148 incidents the previous week. There were also 13 incidents of domestic offenses, up from eight the week before. Among the few types of offenses that saw a downturn, reports of burglary went from 153 to 144. Alcohol-related offenses fell from 129 to 121, and drug-related offenses went down from 49 to 46. There were 848 reports of miscellaneous other crimes, an increase of 43 from the previous week. Other crimes include a variety of offenses like trespassing, public disturbance and violation of a court order. As far as where crime is concentrated in the city, Northeast Dallas, Southeast Dallas and Far North continued to have the most reported incidents. Crime in Southeast Dallas went up the most. Crime reports in Southwest Dallas also rose, after declining the week before, and incidents in M Streets are up considerably as well. Regarding when crime most often occurs, Monday, Friday and Saturday produced the most reported crimes. The largest increase from the previous week occurred on Monday, Wednesday and Saturday, while incidents on Friday and Tuesday went down. Comparing times of day, late morning, evening and early afternoon saw the most crime last week. To report a crime in progress or life-threatening emergency, call 911. To report a non-urgent crime or complaint, contact your local police department. Head to CrimeoMeter to get free local crime alerts in your area. This story was created automatically using local crime data, then reviewed by an editor. Click here for more about our data sources and local crime methodology. Got thoughts about what we're doing? Go here to share your feedback. Beirut (AFP) - Syrian government forces recaptured a northwestern town on Thursday from around which jihadists and allied rebels have launched rockets on their Russian ally's key airbase, a monitor said. The capture of the town of Qalaat al-Madiq, on the southwestern edge of the jihadist-controlled Idlib region, comes after weeks of intensified air strikes and shelling by pro-government and Russian forces. Intense bombardment caused the jihadists and Islamist rebels to flee, the Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said. "Rockets have been fired on the Hmeimim airbase" from the area around the town, Observatory head Rami Abdel Rahman said. The Russian airbase in the coastal province of Latakia has come under repeated rocket fire and Moscow has also accused armed groups of launching weaponised drones against it. In the latest attack on Monday, 36 rockets were fired at Hmeimim, but were intercepted without causing any casualties or damage, the Russian defence ministry said. The recapture of Qalaat al-Madiq comes after government forces retook the nearby town of Kafr Nabouda on Wednesday, pro-government newspaper Al-Watan and the Observatory said. Overnight and early Thursday, government and Russian aircraft also struck two other nearby towns, Hobait and Khan Sheikhun, the Observatory said. Russia signed a buffer zone deal with rebel backer Turkey in September to avert a broad government offensive on the Idlib region, which would have a potentially devastating impact on its three million people. But Turkey failed to deliver on the agreed withdrawal of extremist factions from the planned buffer zone and, in January, the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham group, which is dominated by jihadists from Al-Qaeda's former Syrian branch, took control of the region, prompting an uptick in clashes. Since late April, government forces have mounted a major bombardment of the south of the region with Russian support, prompting tens of thousands of civilians to flee their homes. Story continues State media has regularly reported attacks by the army on "terrorist" positions but there has been no announcement of any wider offensive. Analysts have said the government's strategy may instead be to chip away at jihadist territory one piece at a time. The civil war in Syria has killed more than 370,000 people and displaced millions since it started with the brutal repression of anti-government protests in 2011. David Beckham has been banned from driving for six months for using his mobile phone while driving his 100,000 Bentley. The former England captain had previously entered a guilty plea by post, and was given six points on his licence at Bromley Magistrates' Court, which has resulted in a ban. He also received a 750 fine. Beckham was charged last month after a member of the public spotted him on the phone while driving his Bentley. Football star David Beckham arrives at Bromley Magistrates Court for a hearing after he was spotted using his mobile phone while driving his Bentley, in London, Thursday, May 9, 2019. (Victoria Jones/PA via AP) He, admitted using the device while driving in Great Portland Street on November 21. Read more: BBC denies that David Beckham has a role in the new series of 'Peaky Blinders' His case was originally set to be dealt with at Lavender Hill Magistrates' Court last month, but was postponed until the star confirmed he would attend the hearing. Beckham flew home especially for the hearing, 24 hours after he was seen at a casino press conference in China. The magistrate had the power to impose six penalty points and a 200 fine for the charge of using a mobile while driving. Former soccer player David Beckham, left, and designer Victoria Beckham pose for photographers upon arrival at the The Fashion Awards 2018 in central London, Monday, Dec. 10, 2018. (Photo by Joel C Ryan/Invision/AP) Scotland Yard previously said the star had pleaded guilty by post. He accepted that he drove a loaned Bentley at 59mph in a 40mph zone in west London in January 2018. Read more: Watch David Beckham's hilarious reaction to being pranked by James Corden His case had so far been heard in a behind-closed-doors hearing at Bromley magistrates, away from the press and public. Known as a "single justice procedure", it allows court time to be freed up by allowing magistrates to quickly deal with low-level offences which do not warrant prison sentences. Former British football player David Beckham waves the checkered flag during the Formula One Bahrain Grand Prix on March 31, 2019. (Photo by Andrej ISAKOVIC / various sources / AFP) But he was later ordered to attend an open court session after magistrates said they wanted to "show cause". The former Man United star was caught just two months after he was accused of "shirking his responsibility" as a role model after avoiding prosecution on a speeding charge. Beckham was represented by celebrity lawyer Nick Freeman, who is known as Mr Loophole, and got off on a technicality. Beckham was accused of driving at 59mph in a 40mph zone on the A40 in Paddington, West London, in 23 January last year. By Tim Reid LOS ANGELES, May 9 (Reuters) - Democratic presidential candidate Beto O'Rourke has hired Jeff Berman, one of the architects of Barack Obama's 2008 presidential victory, as a senior adviser, the campaign said on Thursday. Berman is an expert in the complex system of how the Democratic Party awards delegates during its presidential nominating contest. His hiring as senior advisor for delegate strategy indicates O'Rourke is digging in for a long delegate battle in a huge Democratic field with 22 candidates so far. Berman is the second former senior Obama official to join the former Texas congressman's campaign. Jen O'Malley Dillon became O'Rourke's campaign manager in March. "Jeff was one of the first people I reached out to when I came on board because delegate strategy is so critical to our overall strategy," O'Malley Dillon said in a statement. Unlike the Republican nominating system, where delegates in most states are awarded on a winner-takes-all system, Democrats award delegates on a proportional basis. That means a candidate does not necessarily have to win individual primary elections and caucuses to amass delegates. The hiring of O'Malley Dillon and Berman reflects efforts by O'Rourke to bring a more traditional approach to his White House bid after a less structured strategy during his unsuccessful U.S. Senate run last year. Berman also served as delegate strategist for Hillary Clinton during her 2016 White House run. O'Rourke attracted an initial surge of publicity and excitement when he entered the presidential race in March. He has struggled in the most recent opinion polls to break out of a second tier of candidates trailing far behind front-runners Joe Biden, the former vice president, and U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders of Vermont. A CNN poll last week, however, showed O'Rourke to be the leading Democratic candidate to beat Republican President Donald Trump in a head-to-head matchup. (Reporting by Tim Reid Editing by Colleen Jenkins and Jonathan Oatis) Democrats are preparing for a legal battle to obtain Donald Trumps tax returns an issue that has taken on outsized importance while the president has claimed huge businesses losses he suffered during the 1980s were an intentional write off. Members of the House of Representatives are to meet to consider their next step, after Mr Trumps treasury secretary refused to release the returns they had requested. Reports suggested Democrats will decide to head directly to court and claim treasury secretary Steven Mnuchin was in breach of an Internal Revenue Service (IRS) law, without bothering to first issue a subpoena. Doing so would further escalate the stand-off between Democrats on Capitol Hill and the White House, which has so far resisted a succession of demands to either hand over documents, or make available officials to testify. Congressman Richard Neal, the Democratic chair of the House of Representatives ways and means committee, will meet with colleagues on Thursday to discuss the way forward after obfuscation from the Trump administration. I believe Mr Neal does not need a subpoena to go to court, congressman Steny Hoyer, the second most senior Democrat in the House, told Politico. There is a big picture here. The picture of perhaps the greatest cover up of any president in American history just a blanket were not giving you information. Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Mr Hoyers boss, agreed, telling the Washington Post: There are several options. One of them is to go directly to court. Among the documents Democrats have been seeking, is a full, unredacted copy of special counsel Robert Muellers report into Russias alleged interference in the 2016 election, and possible collusion with the Trump campaign. After the department of justice refused to provide a copy, House Democrats on Wednesday took the rare step of voting to hold attorney general William Barr in contempt of Congress. We are now in a constitutional crisis, said Jerry Nadler, Democratic chair of the House judiciary committee, after it voted 24-16 on party lines. The resolution on Mr Barr now goes to the full House. Story continues Real estate developers in the 1980s & 1990s, more than 30 years ago, were entitled to massive write offs and depreciation which would, if one was actively building, show losses and tax losses in almost all cases. Much was non monetary. Sometimes considered tax shelter, ...... Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) May 8, 2019 A partly-redacted version of Mr Muellers 448-page report was released last month. In it, the former FBI director said he did not find evidence of collusion between Mr Trumps campaign and Russia, but he did not exonerate the president on the question of possible obstruction of justice. Indeed, the report highlighted around dozen incidents that could have been interpreted as attempts by Mr Trump to interfere with the investigation or terminate it. Since then, with Mr Trump having falsely claimed the report cleared him of both collusion and obstruction, the White House has gone into lockdown mode, denying requests for documents, and for testimony from officials such as former White House counsel Don McGahn. The same has been true, only for a longer period, in regard to Mr Trumps tax returns, which has he claimed he cannot make public the first president since 1976 not to do so as they are being audited by the IRS. Experts say even if they were being audited, no law prevents them being released. This week, the New York Times published some details of what it said were Mr Trumps finances, showing he lost more than $1bn from 1985 to 1994. The newspaper said its reporting was based on printouts it acquired of the presidents official IRS tax transcripts, including figures from his federal tax form. Mr Trump reported business losses of $46.1m in 1985, and a total of $1.17bn in losses for the 10-year period, it said. On Wednesday, New York states senate approved a bill that would allow three congressional committees to get access to Mr Trumps state tax returns, giving Democrats a potential way of overcoming the administrations refusal to disclose the presidents federal returns. Mr Trump tweeted that he secured massive tax write offs during the 1980s and 1990s, along with other property speculators, and claimed it was a sport. Real estate developers in the 1980s & 1990s, more than 30 years ago, were entitled to massive write offs and depreciation which would, if one was actively building, show losses and tax losses in almost all cases, Mr Trump tweeted. Sometimes considered tax shelter, you would get it by building, or even buying. You always wanted to show losses for tax purposes....almost all real estate developers did and often re-negotiate with banks, it was sport. Nonetheless, he claimed the report in the newspaper was a highly inaccurate fake news hit job based on old information. Denver residents voted Tuesday to decriminalize psilocybin, the psychoactive ingredient in magic mushrooms. Though the final results wont be released until May 16, preliminary election totals suggest the decriminalization side won 51 percent of the vote. The victory does not legalize psilocybin but effectively ensures that adults 21 years of age and older will not be prosecuted for possessing the fungus. I think todays outcome really demonstrates that the conversation is going to continue, and the world is ready for it, Cindy Sovine, chief political strategist for the campaign to decriminalize the drug, told the Associated Press. Psychedelics are already here. Now we can start to have the conversation about using them mindfully, she added. Supporters of decriminalization point to research that indicates psilocybin can be an effective in combatting treatment-resistant depression, even when used on a very infrequent basis. Campaigns are now under way in California and Oregon to get psilocybin decriminalization on the 2020 ballot. Opponents, meanwhile, believe the vote will hasten a cultural decline that began with the state-wide legalization of cannabis in 2014. Well continue to fight the growing drug culture. Denvers becoming the illicit drug capital of the world. The larger issue here is not good for our city, Jeff Hunt, director of the Centennial Institute at Colorado Christian University, told the Denver Post. Marijuana has brought more problems than its solved to our city and our state, and if we continue to go down this track, were going to continue to see Colorado get in worse and worse shape. DEA in Denver agents told NPR that they will continue treating psilocybin possession and trafficking as felonies since it remains a schedule one drug under federal law, a classification that reflects its having no accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse. The incongruity between local and federal law widens a gap that opened with the legalization of cannabis, which adults can now legally consume for medical purposes in 33 states. More from National Review Photo: Red Canary/Facebook Denver-based security company Red Canary has secured $34 million in funding, according to company database Crunchbase, topping the citys recent funding headlines. The cash infusion was announced April 30, and led by Summit Partners. According to its Crunchbase profile, "Red Canary is a cybersecurity technology company delivering cloud based security services. Red Canary's platform and services allow defenders to win against rapidly evolving adversaries by preparing for, detecting and responding to security incidents. Trusted by the best security teams around the world, Red Canary exists with the singular purpose to improve security for organizations of all sizes." The five-year-old company has raised three previous funding rounds, including a $6.2 million round in 2018. The round brings total funding raised by Denver companies in information technology over the past month to $58 million, an increase of $41 million from the month before. The local information technology industry has produced 38 funding rounds over the past year, securing a total of $1 billion in venture funding. In other local funding news, mHealth company CirrusMD announced a $15 million Series B funding round on May 2. According to Crunchbase, "CirrusMD is a healthcare communications company that offers mobile physician access solutions. It aims to empower efficient and more meaningful connections between patients and their healthcare providers. Its Virtual Care Platform gives healthcare payers, health systems and providers an immediate way to cultivate new patient relationships, improve patient access and build loyalty." Founded in 2012, the company has raised five previous rounds, including a $7 million Series A round in 2017. This story was created automatically using local investment data, then reviewed by an editor. Click here for more about what we're doing. Got thoughts? Go here to share your feedback. CLARIFICATION: An initial version of this story was based on initial and incomplete ballot tallies, and the final unofficial returns show the measure ultimately passed. However, even those results wont be final until later this month after the election canvass board reconciles absentee, overseas and military ballots, and formally certifies the results. DENVER -- Voters in the Mile High City have decriminalized magic mushrooms by the slimmest of margins, making Denver the countrys first city to de-prioritize enforcement of the hallucinogen. WE WON!!!! announced Decriminalize Denver after city elections officials released final preliminary results late Wednesday. The measure, 301, passed with 50.56% in favor to 49.44% opposed, a slim margin that is nevertheless outside the mandatory recount margin. Supporters gathered more than 9,000 signatures to place the question before voters. Once the results are officially certified later this month, Denver police will be formally ordered to make enforcement of drug laws against mushroom users their lowest priority. But opponents could pay for a recount if they want, potentially delaying implementation. A vendor bags psilocybin mushrooms at a pop-up cannabis market in Los Angeles on Monday, May 6, 2019. The plan doesnt permit the sale or purchase of the mushrooms, and establishes a task force to examine the impact of decriminalization over the next several years. Its a signal to the rest of the country that at least here in Denver we are ready to start remove some of these substances off the controlled substances list, said Kevin Matthews, 33, who organized the decriminalization campaign. A lot of people who signed our petition said they are tired to see people going to jail over what they choose to put in their body. Denver District Attorney Beth McCann opposed the measure. According to her office, only 11 of more than 9,000 drug cases referred for possible prosecution between 2016 and 2018 involved psilocybin. Prosecutors filed charges of possession with intent to manufacture or distribute in three of those cases. Story continues Advocates say the mushrooms, which contain the hallucinogen psilocybin, have been used for thousands of years and may provide an alternative treatment for opiate addiction and mental health troubles, as well as spiritual insight. Users report bright lights and colors and a sense of connection with something greater than themselves. Psilocybin has been classified as a Schedule 1 controlled substance since 1970 by the federal government. That means it is considered a drug with high abuse potential and no accepted medical value. It also means that university research and possession of the drug are prohibited under federal law. Marijuana, which is already legal across Colorado, is also a Schedule 1 drug. Rock groups such as the Grateful Dead and Allman Brothers Band frequently used images of mushrooms in their logos, T-shirts and other merchandise. The initiative would not have allowed the mushrooms to be sold under Denvers cannabis businesses. Colorado, along with Washington, became the first states to allow recreational marijuana for adults over the age of 21 in November 2012. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Denver decriminalizes 'magic mushrooms' in historic vote (Reuters) - Denver will become the first city in the United States to decriminalize magic mushrooms, based on final unofficial results on Wednesday of a ballot initiative about the hallucinogenic drug. The initiative called for Colorado's capital to end the imposition of criminal penalties for individuals at least 21 years of age for using or possessing psilocybin, widely known as magic mushrooms. The Denver Elections Divisions will certify results on May 16, but the final count on its website on Wednesday was 50.56 percent of voters in favor and 49.44 percent against. If the initiative is approved, psilocybin would still remain illegal under both Colorado and federal law. The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration classifies the drug as a Schedule 1 substance, meaning the agency has deemed that it has a high potential for abuse with no accepted medical application. Decriminalize Denver, the group behind Tuesday's ballot question, said psilocybin had a wide range of medical benefits. It has been shown to reduce depression and anxiety and to help in treating tobacco, alcohol and opioid addictions, and with alleviating symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), according to the organization. Some opponents worry that if passed, the initiative would increase the citys image as a haven for drugs, given that Colorado was one of the first states to legalize possession and sale of marijuana for adult recreational use. Denver District Attorney Beth McCann opposed the initiative. But if the measure were approved, she supported formation of a review panel under the initiative to study the effects of the drug and the impact the ordinance would have on Denver, spokeswoman Carolyn Tyler said. Denver residents first voted to decriminalize marijuana possession in 2004, years before Colorado voters ultimately approved its legalization statewide for recreational purposes, establishing a full regulatory framework to license retail outlets and collect sales taxes on cannabis products. (Reporting by Andrew Hay in New Mexico; Editing by Peter Cooney) By Patpicha Tanakasempipat and Panarat Thepgumpanat BANGKOK, May 9 (Reuters) - Thailand's pro-army Palang Pracharat party was looking for coalition partners on Thursday from a wide field of potential allies as it seeks to keep military junta leader Prayuth Chan-ocha, who led a 2014 coup, in office as prime minister. The party is expected to easily form the next government, since it needs only a few more votes in the elected House of Representatives to choose the prime minister under complicated new electoral rules written by the military regime. Palang Pracharat is expected to be joined by the Democrat and Bhumjaithai parties as well as 11 other smaller parties that are not affiliated with either the pro-army camp or the Democratic Front of parties opposing the military, said Yuttaporn Issarachai, a political scientist from Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University, "Prayuth will certainly be prime minister," under this scenario, he said, but he added that the government would likely be unstable, with only a slim majority in the House. Leaders of the Democratic Front have cried foul and threatened legal action, saying both the electoral system and the Election Commission were biased toward extending the military regime. Election officials and Palang Pracharat deny the accusation. The Democratic Front of seven parties is led by the Pheu Thai party loyal to exiled former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, who was ousted in a 2006 coup. Pro-Thaksin parties had won every election since then but each time saw its governments ousted by legal rulings and coups. In the latest intervention, the military in 2014 toppled a government that had been led by Thaksin's sister. It still could be weeks before a new government is formed, even though the pro-junta party is in a favorable position. Palang Pracharat's most obvious potential allies are the pro-establishment Democrat Party and the Bhumjaithai party, which campaigned on marijuana legalization among other issues. Story continues The Democrats won 52 seats and Bhumjaithai 51, meaning that either could push Palang Pracharat, which won 115 seats, well over the magic number of 126 votes needed in the House to approve the prime minister under the new system. The Democrats' spokesman, Thana Chiravinij, told Reuters the party would meet next week to decide whether it would join with Palang Pracharat in government or form an "independent opposition." But he said the Democrats would never join the Democratic Front because it is led by the pro-Thaksin Pheu Thai. Prominent members of the pro-establishment Democrat Party in 2014 led protests against the civilian government led by Thaksin's sister, with some openly calling for military intervention. Bhumjaithai leader Anutin Charnvirakul was not available for comment but he said on Facebook that the party "is still listening to the people." 'WHITEWASHING EFFORT' The new post-coup constitution calls for the 250-seat Senate, appointed entirely by the junta, to vote along with the 500-seat elected House of Representatives to choose the prime minister. Involving the Senate effectively gives pro-army parties a head start of 250 votes to get to the required majority of 376 in the combined House and Senate vote. By contrast, the Democratic Front has virtually no chance of forming a government thanks to the appointed Senate. "Thailand isn't returning to democracy," said Titipol Phakdeewanich, dean of the Faculty of Political Science at Ubon Ratchathani University. "The election was a whitewashing effort for the military to stay in power so that they can tell the international community that they are an elected government," he said. The Democratic Front also complained it was denied what it had expected to be majority of 255 seats in the House of Representatives when the Election Commission decided to use a new formula in allocating seats. The new formula gave 11 tiny parties one seat each, with most of them taken from the anti-military Future Forward Party, part of the opposition alliance. Under the new formula, the Democratic Front won 245 seats in the House - just short of the majority it had hoped would give it leverage to block legislation if Prayuth remained prime minister. Pheu Thai on Wednesday said it would use every legal channel to fight the Election Commission's formula. (Writing by Kay Johnson Editing by Robert Birsel) By Patpicha Tanakasempipat and Panarat Thepgumpanat BANGKOK (Reuters) - Thailand's pro-army Palang Pracharat party was looking for coalition partners on Thursday from a wide field of potential allies as it seeks to keep military junta leader Prayuth Chan-ocha, who led a 2014 coup, in office as prime minister. The party is expected to easily form the next government, since it needs only a few more votes in the elected House of Representatives to choose the prime minister under complicated new electoral rules written by the military regime. Palang Pracharat is expected to be joined by the Democrat and Bhumjaithai parties as well as 11 other smaller parties that are not affiliated with either the pro-army camp or the Democratic Front of parties opposing the military, said Yuttaporn Issarachai, a political scientist from Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University, "Prayuth will certainly be prime minister," under this scenario, he said, but he added that the government would likely be unstable, with only a slim majority in the House. Leaders of the Democratic Front have cried foul and threatened legal action, saying both the electoral system and the Election Commission were biased toward extending the military regime. Election officials and Palang Pracharat deny the accusation. The Democratic Front of seven parties is led by the Pheu Thai party loyal to exiled former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, who was ousted in a 2006 coup. Pro-Thaksin parties had won every election since then but each time saw its governments ousted by legal rulings and coups. In the latest intervention, the military in 2014 toppled a government that had been led by Thaksin's sister. It still could be weeks before a new government is formed, even though the pro-junta party is in a favourable position. Palang Pracharat's most obvious potential allies are the pro-establishment Democrat Party and the Bhumjaithai party, which campaigned on marijuana legalisation among other issues. Story continues The Democrats won 52 seats and Bhumjaithai 51, meaning that either could push Palang Pracharat, which won 115 seats, well over the magic number of 126 votes needed in the House to approve the prime minister under the new system. The Democrats' spokesman, Thana Chiravinij, told Reuters the party would meet next week to decide whether it would join with Palang Pracharat in government or form an "independent opposition". But he said the Democrats would never join the Democratic Front because it is led by the pro-Thaksin Pheu Thai. Prominent members of the pro-establishment Democrat Party in 2014 led protests against the civilian government led by Thaksin's sister, with some openly calling for military intervention. Bhumjaithai leader Anutin Charnvirakul was not available for comment but he said on Facebook that the party "is still listening to the people". 'WHITEWASHING EFFORT' The new post-coup constitution calls for the 250-seat Senate, appointed entirely by the junta, to vote along with the 500-seat elected House of Representatives to choose the prime minister. Involving the Senate effectively gives pro-army parties a head start of 250 votes to get to the required majority of 376 in the combined House and Senate vote. By contrast, the Democratic Front has virtually no chance of forming a government thanks to the appointed Senate. "Thailand isn't returning to democracy," said Titipol Phakdeewanich, dean of the Faculty of Political Science at Ubon Ratchathani University. "The election was a whitewashing effort for the military to stay in power so that they can tell the international community that they are an elected government," he said. The Democratic Front also complained it was denied what it had expected to be majority of 255 seats in the House of Representatives when the Election Commission decided to use a new formula in allocating seats. The new formula gave 11 tiny parties one seat each, with most of them taken from the anti-military Future Forward Party, part of the opposition alliance. Under the new formula, the Democratic Front won 245 seats in the House - just short of the majority it had hoped would give it leverage to block legislation if Prayuth remained prime minister. Pheu Thai on Wednesday said it would use every legal channel to fight the Election Commission's formula. (Writing by Kay Johnson; Editing by Robert Birsel) Donald Trump appeared to find a supporter's suggestion that immigrants be shot at the border funny Donald Trump appeared to condone a supporters suggestions that immigrants should be shot at the border during a rally in Florida. The US President was discussing immigration and his proposed wall during a speech in Panama City Beach. He told the crowd: You have hundreds and hundreds of [immigrants] and you have two or three border security people that are brave and great. And dont forget, we dont let them - and we cant let them - use weapons. We cant. Other countries do. We cant, I would never do that. But how do you stop these people? His question was answered by someone in the crowd who shouted: Shoot them. The comment prompted laughter from people around the heckler as well as from the President, who answered wryly: Thats only in the panhandle can you get away with that statement. Only in the panhandle. The incident came as Madonna has hit out at Mr Trump for failing to act on gun violence, saying he is too "focused on his damn wall in Mexico". READ MORE Teen rushed to hospital after being stabbed in the back of the head In an interview with British Vogue, the pop star criticised "the fixation that our country is so endangered by Central America. "Why aren't we focused on gun control? That's the real danger," she said. "That's a way bigger problem than people crossing the border. She added: "I can't believe he is so focused on his damn wall in Mexico." Caracas (AFP) - Sirens in the night, armed and balaclava-clad policemen surrounding an imposing four-wheel drive vehicle as its occupier refused to get out. The dramatic scene ended with the car being towed away to a notorious prison at the headquarters of the Venezuelan secret services. And all this happened as the opposition lawmaker inside the vehicle live-tweeted a commentary on his arrest Wednesday evening. "We're surrounded right now by SEBIN" security services agents, Edgar Zambrano wrote. "As we refused to get out of our vehicle, they used a tow truck to forcibly take us directly to the Helicoide," the name of a feared political prison and secret service headquarters. "Democrats, keep up the fight!" Zambrano is the right-hand man of opposition leader Juan Guaido, who led a failed uprising against President Nicolas Maduro last week involving around 30 members of the armed forces. Recounting the sequence of events to NTN24 television station, fellow lawmaker Carlos Prosperi said Zambrano was surrounded by secret service agents after leaving a meeting at the headquarters of their Democratic Action party. "They didn't let us pass, he was detained just 50 meters away. He was telling me that they (the agents) were banging on his four-wheel drive and as they couldn't force him to get out, they brought a tow truck to take him away." Zambrano is one of 10 opposition lawmakers accused by Venezuela's Supreme Court of treason, conspiracy and rebellion for having supported Guaido's April 30 uprising. Pictures and videos shared on social media showed black-clad SEBIN agents in balaclavas surrounding Zambrano's car. Maduro's own right-hand man, the influential Diosdado Cabello mentioned the arrest during his weekly television show on Wednesday evening. "They brought a tow-truck, now he's going to have to pay the towing fee," said a smiling Cabello as his audience laughed. Story continues Cabello is president of the controversial Constituent Assembly, which Maduro created to sideline the opposition-controlled National Assembly, headed by Guaido. In January Guaido declared himself acting president after the National Assembly branded Maduro as illegitimate over his re-election last year in polls widely criticized as fraudulent. Guaido has been recognized by more than 50 countries as interim president but has so far been unable to break the military high command's support for Maduro. By Arjun Panchadar (Reuters) - File sharing and storage company Dropbox Inc raised its full-year revenue forecast and reported better-than-expected quarterly results, as it added more paying subscribers. Shares of the company were up 4.6 percent at $24.30 in extended trading after Dropbox said it had 13.2 million paying subscribers at the end of three months on March 31. Analysts were expecting 13 million, according to FactSet. The total paying subscribers included 100,000 users from electronic signature company HelloSign, which Dropbox acquired for $230 million earlier in the year. Started as a free service to consumers, Dropbox now offers a range of enterprise software services and competes with companies such as Alphabet Inc's Google, Microsoft Corp and Amazon.com Inc in the cloud storage space. Dropbox said average revenue per user (ARPU) rose 5.9 percent to $121.04, ahead of estimates. "The year-over-year ARPU expansion was primarily driven by strong adoption of our premium professional and advanced plans by new paying users," Dropbox Chief Financial Officer Ajay Vashee said on a post-earnings call. The cloud storage company forecast second-quarter revenue in the range of $399 million to $401 million. Analysts were expecting revenue of $399.4 million, according to IBES data from Refinitiv. It also forecast adjusted operating margin for the quarter in the range of 9 percent to 10 percent. San Francisco-based Dropbox also raised its full-year revenue forecast to between $1.63 billion and $1.65 billion and its adjusted operating margin forecast to between 11 percent and 12 percent. "I think it was a strong quarter overall, we saw stability in user adds, ARPU growth remains strong. Guidance was above consensus and I'll note that Dropbox does tend to be conservative in its outlook," D.A. Davidson analyst Rishi Jaluria said. "Directionally, I think expanding usage, product differentiation, and expanding partnerships are major drivers behind the strong quarter and outlook." Quarterly loss narrowed to $7.7 million, or 2 cents per share, in Dropbox's fifth financial report as a publicly traded company from $465.5 million, or $2.13 per share, a year earlier. Excluding one-time items, Dropbox earned 10 cents per share, beating estimates of 6 cents, while total revenue rose 22 percent to $385.6 million, ahead of estimates. (Reporting by Arjun Panchadar in Bengaluru; Editing by Shinjini Ganguli) AMSTERDAM, May 9 (Reuters) - Dutch greenhouse gas emissions in 2018 fell by 2.2 percent to 189.5 billion kg of carbon dioxide and equivalents helped by lower emissions by power companies, the country's statistical office said on Thursday. Emissions were down 14.5 percent from 1990 levels, Statistics Netherlands said, meaning the country is unlikely to meet its Kyoto Protocol goal of a 25 percent reduction by 2020. The Netherlands is proportionately one of Europe's worst greenhouse gas polluters, emitting 34 percent more than average on a per-person basis, the CBS said. In June the government is due to present a national plan for cutting emissions in half by 2030. It is not clear how the government can comply with a 2015 court ruling in a case won by climate activists which ordered it to meet the 2020 target. Prime Minister Mark Rutte's government has asserted several times it will adhere to the ruling and meet the target. (Reporting by Toby Sterling; editing by Jason Neely) CAIRO, May 9 (Reuters) - An Egyptian court on Thursday fined ex-interior minister Habib al-Adly 500 Egyptian pounds ($29) after convicting him on charges of unintentional "abuse of public funds" through negligence, a judicial source said. But the court sentenced Nabil Khalaf, the former head of the ministry's Central Administration of Finances and Budget, to three years in jail, ordering him to pay back 62.1 million Egyptian pounds ($3.6 million) and fining him 61.1 million pounds. A long-serving official at the apex of Egypt's feared internal security apparatus, Adly served under former President Hosni Mubarak before his fall to a popular uprising in 2011. The value of the fine raised eyebrows among some Egyptians on social media. "#Habib al-Adly a 500-pound fine, as if he was a laundry thief" Sofia Ahmed wrote on her Twitter account. Adly and two other ministry officials was ordered in April 2017 to refund a total of 195 million Egyptian pounds and were fined the same amount. But the Court of Cassation, Egypt's top civil court, overturned the sentence in January 2018 over procedural errors and ordered a retrial. Adly's lawyer could not immediately be reached for comment. The judicial source said that in its ruling on Thursday, the Giza Criminal Court cleared Adly of the more serious charge of embezzlement and illegal seizure of funds, but found him guilty of abuse of public funds through negligence. The court also fined eight other ministry officials 500 Egyptian pounds each. Adly was acquitted of other graft charges in 2015. In 2014, Adly, along with Mubarak and six of Mubarak's aides, were acquitted of charges related to killing protesters during the 2011 uprising. ($1 = 17.1125 Egyptian pounds) (Reporting by Haitham Ahmed, Writing by Sami Aboudi, Editing by William Maclean) CAIRO (AP) Egypt has deported 79 Sudanese nationals who were trying to cross into Libya to head onward to Europe. Egyptian officials at the Cairo International Airport say the Sudanese were among dozens of migrants, including Egyptians and citizens of other African countries, who were detained earlier this month in the northwestern city of Marsa Matrouh. It was not clear what happened to the others. The officials spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to brief reporters. Libya became a major conduit for African migrants and refugees fleeing to Europe after the uprising that toppled and killed Moammar Gadhafi in 2011. Thousands have perished while making the perilous sea crossing to Europe while others have been detained and abused in Libya by smugglers and armed groups. The owner of an Elk Grove heating and air conditioning business is warning customers that someone is impersonating their technicians and in one case, showed up at a customers home. Jason Richardson is the owner of Elite Heating and Air Conditioning. He said a Sacramento woman tried to call his business through the Yelp app last week. But somehow, after she clicked the call button on the app, an impostor answered the phone claiming to be the owner. Two men showed up at the womans house, one pretending to be Jason, as they scoped out her home. Get the full story in the video above. By Luiza Ilie SIBIU, Romania, May 9 (Reuters) - The European Union needs stronger tools to protect the rule of law and fight corruption, the conservative German candidate to lead the bloc's executive said on Thursday in Romania, where the government stands accused of undermining democracy. The EU's executive European Commission, which is already seeking sanctions against Hungary and Poland for backsliding on democratic standards, has repeatedly said judicial changes made by Romania's ruling Social Democrats since taking power in 2017 reverse decades of democratic reforms and weaken the country's ability to fight corruption. Manfred Weber, the candidate of the center-right European People's Party (EPP) to take over at the helm of the new European Commission later this year, was speaking at a news conference in Romania, where EU leaders meet on Thursday. "The future European Commission under my leadership will insist on the principle of the rule of law. I will present a binding rule of law mechanism for the whole European Union," he said. "People all around Europe want to live in a state and in a society where the fight against corruption is a priority, where the independence of the judiciary is clear and where the freedom of media is guaranteed," he added. Romania currently holds the EU's rotating presidency, but judicial changes its government have brought in have harmed its reputation. The EU wants to make access to its generous aid conditional on respecting basic democratic standards, but it has yet to agree on how to do it. Romania's centrist President Klaus Iohannis, a critic of the Social Democrat coalition, told the same event: "There are still political groups whose leaders want to be above the law, who do not like it when fundamental rule of law institutions investigate and bring to light corrupt acts and public funds theft." Iohannis wants Romanians to vote in a May 26 national referendum, to be held in the ex-communist country together with EU-wide European Parliament elections, against government plans that critics say would further weaken anti-corruption legislation. Story continues The referendum and the EU election will gauge public support for the governing coalition's judicial changes, which include amendments to the criminal code that could shut down a number of ongoing graft trials. "I am not perfectly happy with everything happening in Romania," European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker told a room of young Europeans during a debate in Sibiu on Wednesday. "That makes two of us," Iohannis replied. (Reporting by Luiza Ilie, Editing by Gabriela Baczynska) By Jan Strupczewski BRUSSELS (Reuters) - The European Union's 28 countries consume the Earth's resources faster than they can be renewed and none of them has sustainable consumption policies, a report released on Thursday said, as EU leaders met to discuss priorities for the next five years. "All EU countries are living beyond the means of our planet. The EU and its citizens are currently using twice more than the EU ecosystems can renew," the report by the World Wide Fund (WWF) and Global Footprint Network said. It was issued as leaders met in the Romanian city of Sibiu to set the course for the bloc after Britain's planned departure from the EU. French President Emmanuel Macron said before the summit that climate change was among his key priorities and it was included in the bloc's 10 "commitments" for the future until 2024, agreed by all the 27 leaders meeting in Sibiu. But the bloc is divided on how to achieve any ambitious climate goals and it remains far from clear how the Sibiu declaration would be implemented. Some 100 Greenpeace activists and students from several European countries marched through Sibiu carrying a huge banner saying "Broken Climate Broken Future". "We cannot talk about a prosperous future without a healthy climate," Greenpeace climate activist Alin Tanase told Reuters. Views on concrete action to be taken to combat climate change differ between EU countries, influenced greatly by their dominant industries, such as carmakers in Germany or the coal industry in Poland. The chairman of the summit, President of the European Council Donald Tusk, said there was no future for politicians who were not sensitive to climate change and environment protection issues. "The young generation is much more united on this than the member states. The truth is that nothing has changed when it comes to this divide and different opinions about this. What is new is this very fresh and energetic pressure," he told a news conference after the summit. Story continues Climate protection and sustainable development is also an important topic in the election campaign for the May 23-26 European Parliament elections, which will influence the leadership of European institutions and their programs. The European Commission has been pushing for the EU to become climate neutral by 2050 through reducing carbon emissions that will otherwise boost the Earth's average temperatures with devastating consequences. "The EU uses up almost 20 percent of the Earth's bio-capacity although it comprises only 7 percent of the world population," the WWF report said. "In other words, 2.8 planets would be needed if everyone consumed at the rate of the average EU resident," it said. It said the EU's smallest and richest country, Luxembourg, was also the one which used up renewable resources the fastest last year. Just 46 days into the year, it had consumed its full share of the Earth's resources, it said. The EU's poorest nation, Romania, took the longest to arrive at that point, on July 12th. But that was still earlier than the world's average of August 1, called Earth overshoot day. (Reporting by Jan Strupczewski; Additional reporting by Luiza Ilie in Sibiu; Editing by Bill Berkrot and Frances Kerry) South Africa: Results trickle in for metros As the first day of vote-counting got underway in earnest, the National Results Operations Centre (ROC) in Pretoria, where IEC officials, observer missions, political representatives, media and analysts are stationed, is a hive of activity. On Thursday morning, the leader board at the centre showed that just over 2.9 million of the valid votes cast had been counted. This as South Africans went to the polls on Wednesday to make their X in the countrys sixth democratic elections. Statistics for the country's big metro's have started to come in. In the Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality a total 21 373 votes were cast of which 248 were spoilt as at 5:48 am on Thursday. In the City of Johannesburg with a total registered population of 2 291 299 people, a total of 81 727 votes were cast with a total 640 spoilt votes. In the sister Metro of Ekurhuleni, which boasts a total of 1 631 056 registered population, a total 136 143 votes were cast while 1 563 votes were spoilt as at 7:33am. The Free States Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality had a total registered population of 425 263. A total of 21 498 votes were cast while 205 votes were spoilt. The Nelson Mandela Bay Metro in the Eastern Cape, saw a total 3 641 votes being cast while 348 votes were spoilt. Meanwhile, Buffalo City - which had a total registered population of 421 247 - saw a total 17 878 votes being cast while 258 were spoilt. The City of Cape Town, in the Western Cape had a total of 238 517 votes cast across all its voting districts with a total 1 998 spoilt votes. Early results for the eThekwini Metro in KwaZulu-Natal were not yet available at 8:25am. At a media briefing on Wednesday afternoon, the Electoral Commission (IEC) announced that it was attending to a situation where five voting stations in the provinces of the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal had not yet opened by 5pm. The voting stations that were affected include two in the Eastern Cape - one in Buffalo City and one in Ntabankulu - as well as three voting stations in Inkosi Langalibalele Municipality in the uThukela District (Escort). SAnews.gov.za This story has been published on: 2019-05-09. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. After going through something as life-altering as a car accident, the best thing you can get out of it is... Jeremy Hunt, Foreign Secretary, speaking at a press conference in London - REUTERS Britain and other European allies suggested they could be forced to reapply sanctions if Iran follows through with its threat to withdraw from the nuclear deal in 60 days. Jeremy Hunt, the Foreign Secretary, urged the Iranian regime to think long and hard about breaching the deals terms and warned there would be consequences to that move. French defence minister Florence Parly said the question of sanctions "will be raised" if the nuclear deal is not respected, while Germanys foreign minister Heiko Maas expressed great concern at developments. Russia and China, who are also signatories to the deal, targeted their frustration at the United States, who pulled out of the deal a year ago and reapplied sanctions themselves. Iran has announced that it will no longer comply with two relatively minor restrictions in the nuclear deal, which was signed in 2015 during Barack Obamas US presidency. But Iran has also said that in 60 days it will take a more drastic step - enriching high-grade uranium that could be used in a bomb - unless the world finds a way to protect it from US sanctions. Iranian President Hassan Rouhani Credit: Anadolu Agency/Getty Images The news promoted an immediate reaction from European powers who have been trying to keep the Iran deal alive after Donald Trump withdrew America after dubbing it the worst deal in history. Mr Hunt,who appeared alongside US secretary of state Mike Pompeo in a London press conference on Wednesday, delivered a stark warning to the Iranian regime. The JCPOA [Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action] is a deal, and in return for the lifting of sanctions Iran has agreed to vital compliance measures, Mr Hunt said. If they break that deal, then there will be consequences in terms of how European powers react. So we urge the Iranians to think very long and hard before they break that deal. It is in no ones interest, it is certainly not in their interest because the moment they go nuclear, their neighbors will as well." Story continues Frances Ms Parly said that "nothing would be worse than Iran leaving this deal." A spokesman for the French deputy foreign ministry urged all sides to avoid anything that would fuel an escalation. Germanys Mr Maas said that "we have learned of Iran's announcement with great concern and we will look at this very closely now." But there was criticism of the Trump administration from others. Sergei Lavrov, the Russian foreign minister, said: The US is to blame for the situation and it makes it difficult for both Iran to fulfill its obligations. Geng Shuang, the Chinese foreign ministry spokesman, called on all parties concerned to exercise restraint". Meanwile Mr Trump tightened the screws further on Iran with sanctions on its mining industry. He said in a statement: "Tehran can expect further actions unless it fundamentally alters its conduct. Sibiu (Romania) (AFP) - European powers Thursday denounced Tehran's threat to resume nuclear work, drawing a sharp response from the Iranian foreign minister who accused them of caving in to US bullying. The three European signatories to the 2015 Iran nuclear deal urged the Islamic republic to stick to its commitments after it said it would stop respecting some limits imposed by the agreement. They rejected an ultimatum from President Hassan Rouhani, who threatened to go further if they fail to deliver sanctions relief within 60 days to counterbalance US President Donald Trump's assault on the Iranian economy. EU diplomatic chief Federica Mogherini and France, Germany and Britain -- the three European nations in the deal -- voiced "great concern" over Rouhani's intervention, which came on the anniversary of Trump's withdrawal of the United States from the agreement negotiated under his predecessor Barack Obama. "We strongly urge Iran to continue to implement its commitments under the JCPOA in full as it has done until now and to refrain from any escalatory steps," they said in a joint statement, referring to the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action as the deal is known. "We reject any ultimatums and we will assess Iran's compliance on the basis of Iran's performance regarding its nuclear-related commitments under the JCPOA." Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif hit back on Twitter. "EU statement today is why JCPOA is where it is: the US has bullied Europe -- and rest of world -- for a year and EU can only express 'regret'," Zarif tweeted. "Instead of demanding that Iran unilaterally abide by a multilateral accord, EU should uphold obligations," he said, calling for the "normalization of economic ties." - New US warnings - Tensions have soared between Iran and the United States, which has announced the deployment of an aircraft carrier strike group and nuclear-capable bombers to the region, saying it had information of Iranian-backed plots. Story continues "The regime in Tehran should understand that any attacks by them or their proxies of any identity against US interests or citizens will be answered with a swift and decisive US response," Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said in the latest stern US warning. But with Trump's Democratic rivals accusing him of pushing towards conflict on hyped-up intelligence, Pompeo also said, "We do not seek war." And Trump -- who threatened to destroy North Korea before sitting down with its leader Kim Jong Un for two landmark summits -- said he was open to face-to-face negotiations. "What I would like to see with Iran, I would like to see them call me," Trump told reporters at the White House. "We don't want them to have nuclear weapons -- not much to ask," he said. Few observers expect any talks soon between Trump and Iran's leaders, for whom hostility toward the United States is a bedrock principle of the 1979 Islamic Revolution that toppled the pro-Western shah. Trump, a close ally of Iran's rivals Saudi Arabia and Israel, has vowed "maximum pressure" to roll back Tehran's influence in the region. Trump on Wednesday moved to end all of Iran's steel and mining exports after already mobilizing to slap sanctions on all countries that buy its key money-maker of oil. - EU shouldn't 'get jumpy' - Europe has stressed the importance of the deal -- in which Iran agreed to curb its nuclear ambitions in return for sanctions relief -- for its own security, and EU leaders discussed the crisis at their summit in the Romanian town of Sibiu. French President Emmanuel Macron appealed for calm, saying Europe must work to persuade Iran to stick with the deal. "We must not get jumpy or fall into escalation," Macron said, warning that leaving the deal would "unstitch what we have achieved". "That's why France is staying in, and will stay in and I profoundly hope Iran will stay in," Macron said as he arrived for an EU summit in Romania. Russia, another signatory to the deal along with China, on Thursday denounced the latest US sanctions and said it understood why Iran had decided to suspend some of its commitments -- but urged Tehran not to go further. Since the US pullout, Europe has sought to keep Iran in the deal by trying to maintain trade via a special mechanism called INSTEX to clear payments without falling foul of American sanctions. The European statement reiterated its commitment to "enable the continuation of legitimate trade with Iran". But few major European companies want to risk the wrath of US sanctions for the sake of the Iranian market and the country's supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has dismissed the European efforts as a "bitter joke". President Donald Trump has repeatedly boasted that the tariffs he has imposed on trading partners are a financial windfall for the US treasury, but research shows it is Americans that bear the brunt of the impact. Trump plans to ratchet up tariffs on $200 billion worth of Chinese goods to 25 percent on Friday, and said the US will be fine without a trade deal since it is raking in the proceed from the tariffs. But that announcement worries businesses and farmers, and has shaken up investors worldwide. "Tariffs are taxes paid by American businesses and consumers, not by China," said David French, senior vice president of the National Retail Federation. "A sudden tariff increase with less than a week's notice would severely disrupt US businesses, especially small companies that have limited resources to mitigate the impact," French said. According to Trump the duties have brought in an additional $100 billion a year paid by China and other countries, but in fact the taxes are paid by the importers, and ultimately passed on at least partially to consumers. US and Chinese trade officials are set to hold crucial negotiations Thursday and Friday in Washington, under the threat of the new tariffs. And while industry and retailers support the Trump administration's desire to change China's behavior and open access to the massive market, they worry the tactics will begin to cut into their sales as consumers feel the pinch. "We want President Trump to successfully reach a deal with China that puts a check on anti-competitive behavior," said Hun Quach, vice president of the Retail Industry Leaders Association. But he said the middle class will end up paying more for everyday consumer goods. - Jobs threatened, expenses up - The Trade Partnership, a private research firm, calculated that increasing existing duties to 25 percent will raise annual expenses for a family of four by $767 and threaten nearly one million jobs Story continues Trade with China supports seven million jobs in the United States, out of 39 million US jobs related to international trade. The conflict between the economic powers has engulfed $360 billion in two-way trade. Trump began the tariff war last year because of complaints over unfair Chinese trade practices. Customs duties affect many intermediate products such as steel, leather, rubber and plastics, as well as finished products from household appliances, to televisions and furniture. A recent study by the New York Federal Reserve Bank shows that taxes imposed since March 2018 on steel and aluminum, and in July on Chinese goods, boosted the consumer price index by 0.3 percentage points last year. Research released last month by the University of Chicago and the New York Fed estimated that tariffs imposed on imported washing machines cost American consumers an additional $1.5 billion a year, raising the price of a washing machine by $86 and a dryer by $92. "We want to see meaningful changes in China's trade practices, but it makes no sense to punish Americans as a negotiating tactic," French of the NRF complained in a statement. "If the administration wants to put more pressure on China, it should form a multinational coalition with our allies who share our concerns." On Wednesday, official data from China showed a drop in exports in April, but Beijing's surplus with the United States remained stable despite the tariffs. China has retaliated with steep tariffs on US agricultural imports, especially soy beans, although the Trump administration paid $12 billion in compensation to help hurting US farmers. Several Republican politicians from states that voted for Trump said farmers were "losing patience," in the words of Iowa Senator Joni Ernst. One in seven Britons think God created the universe and evolution was just part of his plan (Picture: Getty) God created the universe and evolution was just part of his plan. At least, thats what one in seven Britons think, according to a new poll. As part of a range of polls on conspiracies, YouGov put the statement: The universe was created by God in seven days and evolution was just part of His creation plan to just over 2,000 Brits. One in seven (14%) said the statement was probably or definitely true. Seven in ten (&)%) said it was definitely false, with marginal variations across age groups. There was more variation by region, with more than one in five Londoners (21%) thinking the statements true, compared to one in 10 in the south-west and Scotland. Experts argue on the podcast that there's clear scientific evidence of evolution (Picture: Getty) The theory is one of several discussed in a special two-part episode of Yahoo UKs podcast, Britain Is a Nation Of... Speaking on the episode, Penny Sarchet, news editor at New Scientist, said for a lot of people of faith, its not about evidence or facts. I dont think for a lot of people who have faith that it actually comes down to facts and putting together evidence and working out whats true, she said. Theres something about religion and faith where its a spiritual thing and its a philosophy. I dont think its quite the same as looking at a picture of a flag on the moon and thinking, am I being lied to? Its a different domain. Listen to "Britain Is A Nation Of..." on iTunes, Spotify, or aCast But BBC science presenter and writer Dallas Campbell told the podcast he found it hard to square that circle. Both agreed that there is a large body of evidence to support the theory of evolution and Sarchet added: How humans came from just a few molecules floating around in a pond or ocean somewhere is one of the greatest things in science. Personally for me trying to work out how life began and became this complicated is just the biggest question in biology so to write it off is a bit of a shame. This survey was made possible by YouGovs panel of 6 million respondents. Join the trend and share your opinions with the world today. Something is afoot on the banks of the Kentucky River. In a soot-covered building called Warehouse P, an experiment is taking place: Hundreds of barrels filled with bourbon and whiskey lie in somnolent rows. The temperature is a constantly frigid 45 degrees. And time, it seems, is slowing down. Warehouse P is the love child of Buffalo Trace (aka the maker of some of our favorite whiskeys, such as Pappy Van Winkle) and Last Drop Distillers, a London-based spirits company that specializes in unearthing old and rare casks. The duo has come together amid the Frankfort uplands with a common goal: to bring Scotlands cool conditions, which are ideal for slow and even whiskey maturation, to American spirits. Related stories Three Bottles of Aged Scotch That Prove Youth Is Overrated Cubs Fans Can Now Sip a Top-Shelf Bourbon Served Only at Wrigley Field This Beverly Hills Whiskey Hideaway Feels Like a Private Club in the Wild West Kentuckys drastic temperatures, which fluctuate between 100 degrees in the summer and 0 degrees in the winter, have a mercurial effect on the aging process of spirits. Warm weather pulls the resting liquid deep into the barrel staves, exposing it to the character of the wood, while cold weather pushes the liquid back out, imbuing the flavors of oak into its makeup. The ever-changing alchemy makes over-aging a riskand its the reason most bourbons are aged between four and 12 years. By regulating the temperature year-round, however, Warehouse P has the potential to craft the oldest whiskeys in American history. American bourbons that have been matured for up to 50 years simply do not exist, says Rebecca Jago, joint managing director of Last Drop. Were hoping to achieve something that has previously been impossible: super-aged, high-quality and delicious American whiskeys. Patience will no doubt be a requirement in this lengthy (and costly) trial: Last Drop doesnt intend to release its first bottle for at least 25 yearsand what it will taste like is anybodys guess. Says Jago: This is clearly an experiment and, as such, the outcome cannot be guaranteed. Story continues Last Drop isnt the only mad scientist in spirits. Other distillers are tinkering with the aging process with the reverse intention: to mature whiskey in only a few yearsor a few minutes. Halfway around the world in Israel, Milk & Honey is betting that the hot and humid climate of Tel Aviv can produce a (nearly) proper whiskey in record time. Last year, its Young Single Maltwhich matured for months, not yearswon second place at the Whisky Live Tel Aviv show. The awarded spirit is so young, in fact, it cant even technically be called a whiskythat term is reserved for liquids that have been aged a minimum of three yearsbut its smoky, complex flavors have garnered fans nonetheless. Venturing further into science-fair territory, meanwhile, are Chris Mendenhalls whiskeys and bourbons, which the master mixologist ages at the Ritz-Carlton, Washington, DCs Quadrant bar using sound waves. I discovered that sound waves could accelerate aging, he says, explaining that the waves push the liquid through the wood of the barrels to change the qualities of the spirit. It led me to research distilleries and whiskey makers who are using advanced technology, such as pressure and sound waves, to expedite the aging process. Mendenhalls first release, Bourbon Style #1, is a 120-proof, 9-year-old Kentucky bourbon base spirit thats been exposed to 20,000 pulses per second over 30 1977 1989 minutes in his customized homogenizer. The result is a richer and more rounded spirit that tastes years beyond its age. Of course, not everyone is on board with these spirited experiments. Bourbon and whiskey purists, not to mention organizations like the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States (DISCUS), remain skeptical that the aging process canor shouldbe manipulated. For many years, people have attempted to speed up the aging process, because time is money, says Frank Coleman, a senior vice president at DISCUS. But most have been unsuccessful because we are talking about a natural process. That said, we raise a glass to the spirit of adventure. Sign up for Robb Report's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. By Diane Bartz WASHINGTON, May 9 (Reuters) - Facebook Inc co-founder and Mark Zuckerberg's former college roommate Chris Hughes urged U.S. regulators to break up the social media company in a New York Times opinion piece on Thursday. But antitrust law makes such a proposal tough to execute because the government would have to take the company to court and win. It is rare to break up a company but not unheard of, with Standard Oil and AT&T being the two biggest examples. Hughes' call to split Facebook from WhatsApp and Instagram followed a March pledge by U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren, who is running for the Democratic presidential nomination for the 2020 election, to break up big tech companies. Facebook rejected Hughes' call for a breakup. "Accountability of tech companies can only be achieved through the painstaking introduction of new rules for the internet. That is exactly what Mark Zuckerberg has called for," Nick Clegg, Facebooks vice president of global affairs and communications, said in an emailed statement. What is Hughes' argument? Hughes called for the Federal Trade Commission, working with the Justice Department, to force Facebook to undo its purchases of Instagram in 2012 and WhatsApp in 2014. He said the three could become separate publicly traded companies. Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg and other Facebook executives would be required to divest management shares. Hughes' criticisms of Facebook focused on its massive power over speech, and the fact that it was a tool that Russia used to manipulate U.S. voters in 2016 with false news reports. He also expressed concern that Zuckerberg had outsized power in such a dominant firm, saying: "Mark is a good, kind person. But Im angry that his focus on growth led him to sacrifice security and civility for clicks." How could a breakup happen? To force a company to break up, the government would have to file a lawsuit demonstrating that the firm has market power in the industry and that the deal has hurt consumers by pushing up prices or reducing product quality. Story continues This could be particularly hard in the case of Facebook or other technology companies, especially those that provide a free service to users. "The case law as it stands today would make the structural breakup of any of these companies very challenging," an antitrust expert based in Washington said. It is rare for the government to seek to break up an existing company, but it has been done. Famously, the United States sued to break up Standard Oil, accusing it of being an abusive monopoly. The case was fought all the way to the Supreme Court, which ruled in 1911 that the company should be broken up. In 1974, the U.S. government filed an antitrust lawsuit against AT&T Corp because it had a monopoly on telephone lines. After eight years of litigation, the two sides reached a settlement that led to AT&T giving up control of its regional operating companies, or Baby Bells. Perhaps the most famous case is the government's effort to break up Microsoft. The Justice Department won a preliminary victory in 2000 but was reversed on appeal. The case settled with Microsoft intact. There are recent examples with smaller companies. The Justice Department forced consumer review website Bazaarvoice Inc to undo a 2012 merger with rival PowerReviews in 2014. The FTC this week won a victory in trying to break up a merger of two prosthetic knee makers: Otto Bock HealthCare North America, Inc and Freedom Innovations. An administrative law judge ruled in its favor on May 6. What about privacy issues? U.S. lawmakers are also considering privacy legislation that would weaken companies like Facebook by reducing the amount of personal user data they control, thus reducing their value to advertisers. Senator Mark Warner, a Democrat, said in April that the was considering legislation that would focus on data portability, so users of one social media could take their information from one site to another. How powerful is Facebook? Congress held a series of hearings last year looking at the dominance of major tech companies, including their considerable political heft. Facebook has huge global reach, with 1.56 billion users daily as of March. It had 37,700 full-time employees as of the end of March spread around offices in 20 U.S. cities and dozens more around the world. Tech companies are among the biggest U.S. political donors. Google spent $21 million to lobby in 2018 while Amazon spent $14.2 million and Facebook spent $12.62 million, according to their filings to U.S. Congress. (Reporting by Diane Bartz; Editing by Meredith Mazzilli) BEIRUT, May 9 (Reuters) - A Russian-backed Syrian government offensive in the rebel-held northwest has killed dozens of people and forced more than 150,000 to flee, the biggest escalation in the war between President Bashar al-Assad and his enemies since last summer. Government barrel-bombing and Russian air strikes have been accompanied by limited ground assaults, straining a Russian-Turkish deal that spared the region from an offensive in September and generating new concerns for its 3 million people. WHO CONTROLS IDLIB? The northwest - Idlib province and a belt of territory around it - is mostly held by the jihadist Tahrir al-Sham, the latest incarnation of the former Nusra Front, which was part of al Qaeda until 2016. The group tightened its grip earlier this year in a campaign against other rebels. Some of these still have a presence as part of the "National Front for Liberation," backed by Turkey. Foreign jihadists have a significant presence, many of them members of the Huras al-Din group. The Turkish military has established about a dozen military positions in the area under its agreements with Russia. WHY HAS THE CONFLICT ESCALATED AGAIN? The Russian-Turkish deal created a demilitarized zone from which jihadists were required to withdraw, effectively putting the onus on Turkey to tackle the problem while leaving the northwest within a sphere of Turkish influence. But Russia's patience has been wearing thin over what it views as Turkey's failure to curb Tahrir al-Sham. Damascus, determined to recover "every inch" of Syria, has also publicly expressed dissatisfaction with the status quo. The government accuses the Nusra Front of igniting the violence through attacks on its areas. The rebels accuse the government and "Russian occupiers" of trying to invade. WHERE IS THE ATTACK FOCUSED, WHAT ARE ITS AIMS? Most of the bombardment has been in the southern part of the rebel territory including areas in the demilitarized zone. Story continues The full scope of the attack is not yet clear, though Russian President Vladimir Putin recently said a full-scale assault in Idlib was unpractical for now. Rebel sources believe the government's aim is to seize two highways to Aleppo that run to the south of Idlib city through rebel-held areas. Russia and Turkey had previously agreed these roads should be opened. Russia's motives in the northwest include securing its Latakia air base from rebel attacks. WHAT IS THE CIVILIAN IMPACT? The U.N. Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) says more than 152,000 people fled between April 29 and May 5, doubling the number of displaced in the northwest since February. Air strikes have struck 12 health facilities, killed more than 80 civilians and wounded more than 300, OCHA said. Shelling, air strikes and fighting in more than 50 villages have destroyed at least 10 schools and teaching is suspended. The U.N. regional humanitarian coordinator has said the barrel bombing is the worst for at least 15 months. Barrel bombs are containers filled with explosives dropped from helicopters. COULD TURKEY BE DRAWN IN? Turkey's response to the latest escalation has been muted, even when shelling from government-held territory struck a Turkish military position on Saturday. Turkey has recently focused on rolling back Kurdish militia in other parts of northern Syria, notably the area near Tel Rifaat north of Aleppo. Turkey and Russia are in talks over the status of this area. Turkey, Russia and Iran reaffirmed their commitment to the September agreement on the eve of the latest escalation. In a joint statement after an April 25-26 meeting, they expressed concern about Tahrir al-Sham's efforts to increase its control and "reaffirmed the determination to continue cooperation" to eliminate jihadists including the Nusra Front. Turkey's concerns would grow if the attack widened to the point of threatening another major influx of Syrian refugees. It already hosts 3.6 million. HOW DO THE FORCES STACK UP? The Syrian army can draw on the overwhelming fire power provided by the Russian air force and Iran-backed militias that have enabled it to defeat rebels across western Syria. The rebels do not have significant anti-aircraft defenses. Tahrir al-Sham has said it will confront any ground assault by "the Russian occupiers" with "steel and fire." The rebel arsenal includes guided anti-armor missiles, ground-to-ground rockets and jihadist suicide bombers. In a video address this week, a Tahrir al-Sham spokesman said that rebels driven from other parts of Syria - Ghouta, Deraa and Homs - stood ready to defend the territory. (Writing by Tom Perry; Editing by Angus MacSwan) Photo: Growler USA - Baltimore The Rotunda/Yelp Interested in finding out about the newest businesses to open in Baltimore? From a craft brewery to a bar and taco restaurant, read on for a list of the newest spots to open recently. Mobtown Brewing Company Photo: L C./Yelp Stop by 4015 Foster Ave., Suite 400, in Brewers Hill and you'll find Mobtown Brewing Company, a new brewery. The brewery, which opened in April in the former Westinghouse Electric Corp. factory, offers craft beers on tap, with new brews added frequently. There are also special events, such as yoga in the taproom. With 4.5 stars out of three Yelp reviews, Mobtown is off to a strong start. One of the first Yelp users to review the brewery, Mat G., wrote, "This is an excellent brewery that focuses on quality brews that venture into unique creativity and pleasing tastes. I've tried all of the main beers and have been blown away by the variety." Papi's Tacos - Hampden Photo: meredith t./Yelp Stroll past 3820 Falls Road in Hampden and you'll find Papi's Tacos - Hampden, a new bar, offering tacos and more. The restaurant, which also has an outlet in Fells Point, features build-your-own tacos and margaritas. With 3.5 stars out of 7 reviews on Yelp, Papi's is still finding its way, but it's early days. Yelp user Lizz C., who visited on May 4, wrote, "I had the enchiladas con huevos, my partner had the tostada desayuno and we split a pitcher of Bloody Mary's. The food was excellent." Growler USA - Baltimore The Rotunda Photo: Growler USA-Baltimore The Rotunda/Yelp Head over to 727 W. 40th St., Suite 104, in Hampden and you'll find Growler USA - Baltimore The Rotunda, a pub and New American spot, offering beer, burgers and more. The Colorado pub chain, which opened its first Maryland location in Hampden in March, has received 3.5 stars out of 14 reviews on Yelp and is still finding its footing. This story was created automatically using local business data, then reviewed and augmented by an editor. Click here for more about what we're doing. Got thoughts? Go here to share your feedback. Ginza Sushi Fusion Cuisine. | Photo: Skyler J./Yelp Interested in exploring the newest restaurant and retail additions to Phoenix? From a sushi restaurant to a Mexican spot, read on for a rundown of the newest spots to arrive near you. Ginza Sushi Fusion Cuisine Photo: melanie s./Yelp Stop by 13216 N. Seventh St., Suite B2, in North Mountain and you'll find Ginza Sushi Fusion Cuisine, a new sushi bar and Asian fusion spot, offering ramen and more. On the menu, look for specialty hand rolls and main dishes like ginger calamari. On the drink list, expect beer, sake, wine and cocktails. Phoenix Medspa Photo: phoenix medspa/Yelp Wander over to 5444 E. Washington St., Suite 4 in Camelback East and you'll find Phoenix Medspa, a new medical spa. Owned and operated by Dr. Paul Dillaway, this spot offers Botox and Juvederm filler treatments, according to its Facebook page. Amor a la Carta Photo: lauren g./Yelp A newcomer to Paradise Valley, Amor a la Carta is a Mexican spot that's located at 14620 N. Cave Creek Road. "Amor a la Carta, our fine and authentic Mexican cuisine, is brought together by our chef partners to bring traditional Mexican gastronomy to our menu, which retains our mothers' genuine recipes," according to the business' Facebook page. This spot offers breakfast plates like chorizo and eggs and quesadillas. For lunch, expect burgers, street tacos and traditional Puebla-style Mexican sandwiches. This story was created automatically using local business data, then reviewed and augmented by an editor. Click here for more about what we're doing. Got thoughts? Go here to share your feedback. By Jonathan Allen NEW YORK (Reuters) - A German woman who posed as a wealthy heiress to scam New York hotels, fashionable friends and banks with a blizzard of forged documents was sentenced to four to 12 years in prison on Thursday after a jury convicted her of fraud last month. Anna Sorokin, 28, was better known to her Manhattan friends as Anna Delvey, a would-be socialite decked out in expensive clothes whose credit cards came back declined with unnerving frequency despite her talk of having a trust fund. Before giving nearly the maximum possible sentence, Judge Diane Kiesel, of New York state Supreme Court, rebuked Sorokin as "blinded by the glitter and glamor of New York City." "She wanted everything that big money could buy, except that Ms. Sorokin didn't have big money," Kiesel said in court, decrying Sorokin's taste for Sancerre wine and private jets. "All she had was a big scam." Prosecutors say Sorokin stole $275,000 from others while pretending she had a fortune of 60 million euros ($67 million) through multiple acts of glamorous grifting in 2016 and 2017. Sorokin has already spent more than 500 days in jail. She appeared in court in handcuffs wearing a black dress, black shoes and glasses with thick black frames. Prosecutors pointed to her use of a stylist to pick out outfits for her trial as evidence that Sorokin lacked remorse. "The only time she showed emotions was when she was crying because she was upset about the clothing she had received from the Department of Corrections," Catherine McCaw, a prosecutor with the Manhattan district attorney's office, told the court. Sorokin, who was born in Russia before moving with her family to Germany as a teenager, spoke only to say she wanted "to apologize for the mistakes I made." Moments later, the judge waved a letter of support from three of Sorokin's relatives, saying she did not know for sure if that document, too, was a forgery. Story continues "THIS HAS CONSEQUENCES" Prosecutors say Sorokin used forged bank statements to seek a loan of $22 million from a bank to fund a private arts club she wanted to open in Manhattan. She managed to get a $100,000 loan, which prosecutors said she never repaid. Sorokin used about $30,000 of that to cover her overdue bills at the fashionable 11 Howard hotel, where she was living. Prosecutors said Sorokin also deposited bad checks amounting to $15,000 in an account with Signature Bank, managing to withdraw $8,200 in cash before the checks bounced, and used fake wire transfer receipts to trick victims. A jury found her guilty on four counts of grand larceny and four counts of theft of services last month. Sorokin's daily looks became the subject of a dedicated Instagram account with thousands of followers, which the judge nodded to in her sentencing remarks. "I know she is a trendsetter and an influencer," Kiesel said, "so I think the message should be to the defendant and many of her fans out there that this has consequences." U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement said in a statement that Sorokin was a German citizen who had illegally overstayed in the United States. The agency said it will seek to send her back to Germany once her sentence is served. Sorokin will be able to seek parole after she has served four years. The writers Shonda Rhimes and Lena Dunham are separately working on adapting the Anna Delvey story for the screen, according to news reports. This, too, did Sorokin no favors with the judge, who said that Sorokin, in jailhouse interviews, did not express remorse but instead "worried about who would play her in the Netflix series." (Reporting by Jonathan Allen; Editing by Susan Thomas and Leslie Adler) By Jonathan Allen NEW YORK (Reuters) - A German woman who posed as a wealthy heiress to scam New York hotels, fashionable friends and banks with a blizzard of forged documents was sentenced to four to 12 years in prison on Thursday after a jury convicted her of fraud last month. Anna Sorokin, 28, was better known to her Manhattan friends as Anna Delvey, a would-be socialite decked out in expensive clothes whose credit cards came back declined with unnerving frequency despite her talk of having a trust fund. Before giving nearly the maximum possible sentence, Judge Diane Kiesel, of New York state Supreme Court, rebuked Sorokin as "blinded by the glitter and glamour of New York City." "She wanted everything that big money could buy, except that Ms. Sorokin didn't have big money," Kiesel said in court, decrying Sorokin's taste for Sancerre wine and private jets. "All she had was a big scam." Prosecutors say Sorokin stole $275,000 from others while pretending she had a fortune of 60 million euros ($67 million) through multiple acts of glamorous grifting in 2016 and 2017. Sorokin has already spent more than 500 days in jail. She appeared in court in handcuffs wearing a black dress, black shoes and glasses with thick black frames. Prosecutors pointed to her use of a stylist to pick out outfits for her trial as evidence that Sorokin lacked remorse. "The only time she showed emotions was when she was crying because she was upset about the clothing she had received from the Department of Corrections," Catherine McCaw, a prosecutor with the Manhattan district attorney's office, told the court. Sorokin, who was born in Russia before moving with her family to Germany as a teenager, spoke only to say she wanted "to apologise for the mistakes I made." Moments later, the judge waved a letter of support from three of Sorokin's relatives, saying she did not know for sure if that document, too, was a forgery. Story continues "THIS HAS CONSEQUENCES" Prosecutors say Sorokin used forged bank statements to seek a loan of $22 million from a bank to fund a private arts club she wanted to open in Manhattan. She managed to get a $100,000 loan, which prosecutors said she never repaid. Sorokin used about $30,000 of that to cover her overdue bills at the fashionable 11 Howard hotel, where she was living. Prosecutors said Sorokin also deposited bad checks amounting to $15,000 in an account with Signature Bank, managing to withdraw $8,200 in cash before the checks bounced, and used fake wire transfer receipts to trick victims. A jury found her guilty on four counts of grand larceny and four counts of theft of services last month. Sorokin's daily looks became the subject of a dedicated Instagram account with thousands of followers, which the judge nodded to in her sentencing remarks. "I know she is a trendsetter and an influencer," Kiesel said, "so I think the message should be to the defendant and many of her fans out there that this has consequences." U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement said in a statement that Sorokin was a German citizen who had illegally overstayed in the United States. The agency said it will seek to send her back to Germany once her sentence is served. Sorokin will be able to seek parole after she has served four years. The writers Shonda Rhimes and Lena Dunham are separately working on adapting the Anna Delvey story for the screen, according to news reports. This, too, did Sorokin no favours with the judge, who said that Sorokin, in jailhouse interviews, did not express remorse but instead "worried about who would play her in the Netflix series." (Reporting by Jonathan Allen; Editing by Susan Thomas and Leslie Adler) New York (AFP) - A German-Russian fraudster who tricked New York high society into believing she was a wealthy heiress and stealing more than $200,000 was jailed Thursday for up to 12 years. Anna Sorokin, 28, a Russian truck driver's daughter who had been living in Germany, reinvented herself as socialite Anna Delvey on arrival in the US in 2016, spinning an elaborate back story she hoped would help her swindle millions of dollars. She had been convicted of multiple counts of grand larceny as well as theft of services, having conned several banks into granting her loans of tens of thousands of dollars. "Anna Sorokin committed real white-collar felonies over the course of her lengthy masquerade," District Attorney Cyrus Vance said after her conviction. New York judge Diane Kiesel passed a sentence of four to 12 years and ordered Sorokin -- wearing a somber but chic black dress and thick-framed glasses -- to pay a fine of $24,000 and restitution of nearly $200,000. Her scams began soon after her arrival in the US, as which she insinuated herself into high-rolling New York social circles. From November 2016 to August 2017, she managed to travel free of charge on private jets and lived for months at luxury Manhattan hotels without paying the bill, according to New York prosecutors. In one incident, the court heard, she skipped out on an $11,000 tab at The Beekman hotel in Manhattan after a 16-night stay. - Likened to Frank Sinatra - According to a first-hand account by a former Vanity Fair photo editor of Sorokin's financial manipulation, the fake heiress put on an emotional outburst to avoid paying for a 2017 stay at the five-star Moroccan resort La Mamounia. She also reportedly fleeced aviation company Blade when she reneged on the bill for a $35,000 private jet flight to visit billionaire investor Warren Buffett in Omaha. As she became more enmeshed in New York's elite, Sorokin focused on an ambitious project to open an upscale nightclub that doubled as an art gallery. Story continues She tried to borrow $22 million in order to launch it after convincing a powerful promoter to provide a venue on the prestigious Park Avenue. But it all came crashing down for Sorokin when she was indicted in late October 2017 for stealing "approximately $275,000 through multiple scams." "This defendant's alleged criminal conduct spans from check fraud to six-figure stolen loans and includes schemes that resulted in a free trip to Morocco and travel on private planes," Vance said at the time. At trial, Sorokin's attorney Todd Spodek likened her to Frank Sinatra, saying: "In a city that favors money and the appearance of money... they both created their own opportunities." "She was creating a business that she believed would work and she was buying time," her attorney argued. But his appeal ultimately failed to sway jurors, who convicted her in April. New York (AFP) - A New York judge handed a German-Russian woman who passed herself off as an heiress four to 12 years in prison on Thursday, a spokesperson for the Manhattan prosecutor's office said. Anna Sorokin, 28, was sentenced after her conviction for stealing more than $200,000 and attempting to make off with millions more. Sorokin invented a new identity upon her arrival in the United States in 2016, presenting herself as an heiress when she was in fact the daughter of a Russian truck driver who moved to Germany at the age of 16. Through clever lies and incredible self-confidence, Sorokin -- who went by the name Anna Delvey during the time she spent posing as an heiress -- received tens of thousands of dollars in loans from several banks. By Anastasia Moloney MOCOA, Colombia, May 9 (Thomson Reuters Foundation) - Luz Alba Ortiz sobbed, her head in her hands, as she recalled the day her parents were washed away in a deluge of mud that hit the Colombian rainforest town of Mocoa two years ago. Mudslides triggered by torrential rains in March 2017 killed more than 300 people and left hundreds missing in Mocoa. Community leaders put the combined toll of the dead and missing, many of them children, at around 1,000, in the worst disaster to hit Colombia in recent decades. Ortiz, now 28, lost both parents, her sister, baby niece and brother-in-law in the disaster, while she and her daughter narrowly escaped the neck-high torrent of mud and rocks, clinging to shelter on higher ground. "There was nothing more do to than hug each other, pray, and ask God for forgiveness," said Ortiz, standing next to the rubble of her family home that was destroyed in the disaster. For Ortiz, and many other families living in Mocoa, the horrific mudslide was only the latest in a string of losses in a country riven by both armed conflict and worsening weather disasters. Ortiz's family fled to Mocoa in 2002 after leaving a nearby rural area where guerilla violence was making life too risky. But with little cash to restart their lives, they settled in an area with new risks - this time from heavy rain and mudslides linked to climate change. Around the world, many families are facing the same pressures, fleeing one crisis only to find themselves facing a different one, researchers say. Ortiz now lives in one of 300 new homes constructed for property owners who lost theirs in the disaster - part of a larger rebuilding effort in Mocoa, the rainy and humid capital of Colombia's southern province of Putumayo, in the Amazon basin. But two years after the disaster, the town's mayor, Jose Antonio Castro, says roughly half of Mocoa's 40,000 people still live in areas that are at risk of flooding and mudslides, while new flood prevention measures have yet to be built. Story continues "We are only just starting to recover a little, which in this case means giving houses to the victims who suffered in the tragedy and lost their families and their possessions," Castro told the Thomson Reuters Foundation. LOOMING THREAT Surrounded by mountainous rainforest and with six rivers running through and around it, Mocoa's topography and location make it prone to mudslides and flash floods. Many residents fear more mudslides could come in the future as rains become more severe and frequent due to climate change. Most vulnerable are those who were forced to escape violence during the country's five-decade civil war with rebels of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC). The conflict with FARC guerrillas ended in 2016. About three in every five people living in Mocoa were forcibly displaced by the conflict, according to the mayor. Over the decades, entire neighborhoods and informal settlements have been founded by poor displaced families looking for refuge, often building precarious wooden shacks along river banks and on flood-prone areas. "As they fled the war, they found very cheap lots and sites in areas right next to the river. And now they are victims of natural disasters," Castro said. LIVING IN HARM'S WAY About 25,000 Mocoa residents do not live in safe areas, and moving them away from flood plains will take about 20 years and need to be carried out in phases, according to the mayor. But funds needed from the national government to buy the land for resettling people and to build new homes have not yet been secured, the mayor said. "It's a very complex task" - and one that also involves persuading people to agree to leave their current homes "because the historical tradition here is to live alongside the rivers," Castro said. According to the mayor, work to build another 1,150 new houses in and around Mocoa is set to start soon, mostly to assist homeowners who lost their property in the disaster. But while the area has a handful of repaired roads and bridges, new flood control measures - such as retention walls along river banks - remain almost non-existent. "We're only just starting to recover a little .. in terms of rebuilding the city," Castro said. The first of 56 planned infrastructure projects to help prevent flooding and rivers bursting their banks will start soon, the mayor said, with funding mostly from local government. CLIMATE THREATS The need to move people away from harm's way is ever more urgent as climate change takes its toll on a town that seems to suffer ever more torrential rains each year. On the night of the disaster, Mocoa saw one month of rain in just two hours. Colombia's then president, Juan Manuel Santos, blamed the mudslides caused by heavy rains, "as a direct product of climate change." Mayor Castro said climate change is having an impact on rivers and water sources in Mocoa and across Colombia. "Climate change doesn't just affect ice thawing in the (Arctic) poles and coastal flooding," Castro said. "It has also affected the riverbeds of the Colombian Amazon." Across Colombia, the mountainous landscape and frequent informal construction of homes combine to make landslides a common occurrence, especially during the rainy season that normally starts in March and carries on until May. So far this year, landslides triggered by heavy rains have claimed the lives of about 30 people across Colombia and have disrupted the lives of more than 1,500 people. In Mocoa, there is tangible fear among residents who worry a fresh disaster could strike. "Every time it rains, I'm afraid. I can't sleep and I keep a close eye on the river levels," said 62-year-old Flor de Maria Rodriguez, who lost her husband and home in the mudslide. EARLY WARNING SYSTEMS Despite slow rebuilding efforts, officials say communities are now better prepared in the event of another disaster. Improved early warning systems include the construction of 17 new towers with sirens and loudspeakers that alert communities when to evacuate. Alerts are also sent to residents on WhatsApp. In addition, about 11 digital sensors on bridges and four new weather stations monitor river and rain levels. "We have to live forever with the early warning systems," Castro said. "People are now paying a lot of attention to reports when there are heavy rains." The systems were put to the test last August. Torrential rains triggered a red alert, prompting 30,000 people to evacuate to safety. "The tragedy in 2017 caught us off guard," said Jose Alfonso Cruz, who heads Mocoa's volunteer firefighter service. "The fact that there was no loss of life during the last evacuation in August shows we're better prepared, that people know what to do and follow instructions. Lessons have been learned." For Sandra Gonzalez, 24, whose riverside house was washed away in the mudslide, being better prepared is of little comfort. Gonzalez, and thousands of others who lost their homes in the disaster, are still struggling to rebuild their lives and pay rent. She lives in one of the few houses still standing following the disaster in a seedy riverside neighborhood in downtown Mocoa that is also home to crack addicts. Beside the house, a big placard says: "Don't return. Put your life first." But "I can't afford to live elsewhere. I don't have a choice but to live here," Gonzalez said. "I'm at risk. Mocoa is at risk." (Reporting by Anastasia Moloney @anastasiabogota, Editing by Laurie Goering. Please credit the Thomson Reuters Foundation, the charitable arm of Thomson Reuters, that covers humanitarian news, climate change, women's and LGBT+ rights, property rights, and human trafficking. Visit http://news.trust.org) Roger Federer saved two match points in the third set before winning in a tiebreaker to gain the 1,200th victory of his career on Thursday and reach the quarterfinals of the Mutua Madrid Open. With the 6-0, 4-6, 7-6 (3) victory over No. 15 seed Gael Monfils of France, Federer joins Jimmy Connors (1,274) as the only players in the Open Era to reach 1,200 wins. Monfils could muster only nine points in the 19-minute first set but came charging back in the second set, jumping to a 4-1 lead before closing it out. In the third set, the Swiss star also fell behind 1-4, but this time the No. 4 seed fought back. Serving, down 5-6 and with Monfils at match point, Federer fought off his challenger to send it to deuce, then saved another match point before forcing the tiebreaker. "I'm not sure if I've lost a match before after winning the first set 6-0," Federer said. "The statistics show that usually you are in good shape. But with Gael you really never know. He really got into a great groove after that. He had great intensity. At the end I played a great tiebreaker so I'm very relieved and I'm very happy right now." Federer, who has won the tournament three times on the clay courts in Madrid, will meet No. 5 seed Dominic Thiem of Austria in the quarterfinals on Friday. Thiem topped 10th-seeded Italian Fabio Fognini 6-4, 7-5. Top-seeded Novak Djokovic, a two-time winner in Madrid, ousted Jeremy Chardy of France 6-1, 7-6 (2) to advance to a quarterfinal matchup with Marin Cilic of Croatia. Cilic beat Laslo Djere of Serbia 4-6, 6-3, 6-2. Since winning the Australian Open in January, Djokovic has failed to make it out of the quarterfinals in three straight tournaments. This will mark only his second quarterfinal appearance in four tournaments since winning his 15th career Grand Slam in Melbourne. "It's all a learning curve especially when you are losing in early rounds and matches that you are supposed to win against players you are supposed to win (against)," Djokovic told reporters after the match of his recent struggles. "Of course, it does feel disappointing especially because I was on such a roll for so long. But I have to move on." Story continues In other action Thursday, No. 3 seed Alexander Zverev of Germany needed three sets to beat qualifier Hubert Hurkacz of Poland 3-6, 6-4, 6-4. He next will take on Greece's Stefanos Tsitsipas, the eighth-seeded player who dropped Spaniard Fernando Verdasco in straight sets, 6-3, 6-4. In the day's biggest upset, No. 6 seed Kei Nishikori of Japan lost to unseeded Stan Wawrinka 6-3, 7-6 (3). In the quarterfinals, the Swiss Wawrinka will face home-country favorite Rafael Nadal of Spain. The No. 2 seed dropped American Frances Tiafoe 6-3, 6-4. --Field Level Media Five Prime Therapeutics (FPRX) came out with a quarterly loss of $1.02 per share versus the Zacks Consensus Estimate of a loss of $1.07. This compares to loss of $0.63 per share a year ago. These figures are adjusted for non-recurring items. This quarterly report represents an earnings surprise of 4.67%. A quarter ago, it was expected that this biotech company that develops treatments targeting cancer and autoimmune diseases would post a loss of $1.30 per share when it actually produced a loss of $1.12, delivering a surprise of 13.85%. Over the last four quarters, the company has surpassed consensus EPS estimates three times. Five Prime Therapeutics, which belongs to the Zacks Medical - Biomedical and Genetics industry, posted revenues of $5.35 million for the quarter ended March 2019, missing the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 6.36%. This compares to year-ago revenues of $32.49 million. The company has topped consensus revenue estimates just once over the last four quarters. The sustainability of the stock's immediate price movement based on the recently-released numbers and future earnings expectations will mostly depend on management's commentary on the earnings call. Five Prime Therapeutics shares have added about 20.2% since the beginning of the year versus the S&P 500's gain of 15.1%. What's Next for Five Prime Therapeutics? While Five Prime Therapeutics has outperformed the market so far this year, the question that comes to investors' minds is: what's next for the stock? There are no easy answers to this key question, but one reliable measure that can help investors address this is the company's earnings outlook. Not only does this include current consensus earnings expectations for the coming quarter(s), but also how these expectations have changed lately. Empirical research shows a strong correlation between near-term stock movements and trends in earnings estimate revisions. Investors can track such revisions by themselves or rely on a tried-and-tested rating tool like the Zacks Rank, which has an impressive track record of harnessing the power of earnings estimate revisions. Story continues Ahead of this earnings release, the estimate revisions trend for Five Prime Therapeutics was mixed. While the magnitude and direction of estimate revisions could change following the company's just-released earnings report, the current status translates into a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) for the stock. So, the shares are expected to perform in line with the market in the near future. You can see the complete list of today's Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here. It will be interesting to see how estimates for the coming quarters and current fiscal year change in the days ahead. The current consensus EPS estimate is -$1.05 on $5.53 million in revenues for the coming quarter and -$3.99 on $23.17 million in revenues for the current fiscal year. Investors should be mindful of the fact that the outlook for the industry can have a material impact on the performance of the stock as well. In terms of the Zacks Industry Rank, Medical - Biomedical and Genetics is currently in the top 29% of the 250 plus Zacks industries. Our research shows that the top 50% of the Zacks-ranked industries outperform the bottom 50% by a factor of more than 2 to 1. 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 Five Prime Therapeutics, Inc. (FPRX) : Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. "This giraffe really stuck its neck out to help Santa this year, so, Santa gave it a treat and it about has it licked." Thomas Kelly were this week's winner. The winners' names will be put into a drawing for a free month subscription or extension. Look for a new photo Monday. With the automaker's first long-range electric vehicle set to be unveiled later this year, Ford (F)officials said Thursday they're on the right path as they "reconceptualize" the company's vehicle lineup as well as its future. Ford is in the midst of one of the most dramatic transformations the company has faced since founder Henry Ford threw the switch to start the auto industry's first assembly line rolling more than 100 years ago. The automaker is largely abandoning passenger cars in favor of SUVs and crossover vehicles, pursuing the development of self-driving vehicles and exploring the transition from a classic automaker into a provider of mobility services. The automaker laid out plans last year to spend $11 billion on the technology by 2022 up from its original target of $4.5 billion by 2020 to develop 40 new all-electric and hybrid models. The company has already announced two EVs it plans to introduce next year: a fully-electric F-150 pickup and a "Mustang-inspired" electric crossover vehicle. "When there's new technologies, it takes a while, and there's a tipping point," CEO Jim Hackett told investors during the automaker's annual shareholder meeting Thursday. "When it happens, you want to be there." Investors need some reassurance. While the company's shares are up by more than 33% so far this year, they're still down by almost 8% over the last 12 months. Sales of its first-generation EVs, like the Ford Focus Electric, have been modest at best. Hackett assured investors that more buyers will plug in. Company data shows one in five younger buyers would consider buying an electric vehicle at some point. That's not far out of line with a study released by AAA on Thursday that found that 16% of American motorists it surveyed are giving serious consideration to an electric car for their next vehicle. The AAA report also said 40 million Americans would consider a battery-electric vehicle, or BEV especially as prices drop, range improves and it becomes easier and quicker to recharge batteries. Story continues Ford is clearly not alone. Two of Europe's most powerful automakers, Volkswagen(VLKPF) and Mercedes-Benz parent Daimler AG, launched sales of their first battery-electric vehicles this week. VW said it took about 10,000 advance orders for the new ID.3 crossover during the first day, even though the vehicle won't actually reach showrooms until next year. VW AG CEO Herbert Diess last year said his company is committing about $10 billion through 2023 to electrification. He also upped the number of battery-electric vehicles VW expects to sell by 2029 from 15 million to 22 million. Japan-based Toyota(7203.T-JP) plans to bring more than 10 EVs to market in the next six years, aiming to sell about 5.5 million battery-electric vehicles by 2030. The Renault-Nissan(7201.T-JP)-Mitsubishi Alliance which launched the world's first BEV, the Nissan Leaf, in 2010, is making a similar push. Ford was an early proponent of electrification, rushing to market with a mix of conventional hybrids, plug-in hybrids and first-generation battery-electric vehicles, like the Focus Electric. But a variety of factors, including limited range and high sticker prices, limited demand. The automaker briefly hesitated before stepping up its efforts. But since Hackett replaced former CEO Mark Fields in a boardroom coup two years ago this month, he has ordered major new commitments to Ford's electrification, autonomous driving and mobility services efforts including a "Mustang-inspired" crossover vehicle that's generated all sorts of buzz. The scant details and cult-following of the Ford's iconic muscle car has helped fuel speculation of what the electric version will look like. "Spy photographers" stake out the routes and locations where Ford is known to test its products, hoping to catch a glimpse of even a heavily camouflaged version of the vehicle. "There's a lot of intrigue around this product," said Hackett, adding that, "we're going to be telling our community more about it, but it is going to be a great story about Ford." Hackett shed little new light on the car Thursday. "What we've done is reconceptualized [vehicle design] with all of the extra space that you actually retrieve using battery-electrics into a very, very unique vehicle that takes advantage of some inspiration from our Mustang brand," Hackett said. Whether Ford's bet on electrification will pay off is far from certain, as its earlier sales serve to remind observers. Nonetheless, there is a growing belief among those in and around the auto industry that battery power is the way of the future. Ford plans to bring out a mix of hybrids, plug-ins and BEVs, betting that the unique characteristics of each will resonate with different groups of consumers. In the Snowbelt, for example, where there are fewer public chargers and cold weather reduces range, analysts like IHS Markit and the Boston Consulting Group see stronger demand for the plug-ins that can switch to gas power when their batteries are depleted. Many experts believe that BEVs will be the long-term solution, a strategy underpinning new competitors like Tesla and suburban Detroit-based Rivian. EV ownership is expected to spike by 2030, according to the International Energy Agency, with an expected 125 million Americans owning an all-electric vehicle by that year. Rivian revealed a pair of all-electric models, the R1T pickup and R1S sport-utility vehicle, at the Los Angeles International Auto Show last November and hopes to launch production within the next year. Rivian has raised more than $1.2 billion in capital recently, first lining up $700 million from a consortium led by Amazon. Ford kicked in the other $500 million. Rivian agreed to a new battery-powered electric vehicle for Ford as part of the deal. The tie-up with Rivian will help Ford produce at least one, and likely several, new BEVs, according to industry analysts. But it won't slow the battery-car development program Ford already had underway for vehicles like the all-electric SUV that has gone by the codename "Mach One." If handled properly, experts contend, electric vehicles offer a number of advantages, including reduced albeit displaced emissions, lower energy costs, reduced vehicle noise and even more roomy interiors. That's because there's no engine under the hood anymore, Ford and most other manufacturers migrating to a skateboard-like platform where batteries and motors are mounted under the load floor. By Tim Reid LOS ANGELES, May 9 (Reuters) - Valerie Plame, a former U.S. intelligence officer whose cover was blown by officials in the administration of former President George W. Bush in the run-up to the Iraq War, said on Thursday she would run as a Democrat for an open U.S. Congress seat in New Mexico. Plame is seeking New Mexico's 3rd congressional district seat, which is being vacated by Democratic Representative Ben Ray Lujan, who is making a bid for the U.S. Senate. Plame moved to the state after a 2003 scandal involving the Bush administration destroyed her career as an undercover operative for the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA). "My career in the CIA was cut short by partisan politics, but Im not done serving our country," she said in a statement. "We need more people in Congress with the courage to stand up for whats right." She said her priorities as a candidate would include access to health care and the rising cost of prescription drugs. Plame joins a growing primary field for the seat, which represents a heavily Democratic district. Three other candidates have announced their bids, and more are expected to follow. Plame, while working undercover for the CIA, had recommended that the Bush administration send her then-husband, former diplomat Joseph Wilson, to Niger to investigate claims that former Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein had tried to buy uranium for use in the production of weapons of mass destruction. The Bush administration was attempting to find evidence that Saddam possessed the weapons to justify its planned invasion of Iraq. Wilson then published an op-ed in The New York Times, entitled "What I Didn't Find in Niger," casting doubt on the Bush administration's rationale for the looming war. That triggered a fierce backlash from Bush officials. In private briefings to journalists, I. Lewis "Scooter" Libby, a senior aide to then-Vice President Dick Cheney, outed Plame as the person who had recommended Wilson for the trip, a move that led to her cover being blown. Libby was later convicted of lying to a grand jury. Bush commuted his sentence, and Republican President Donald Trump pardoned Libby last year. Plame said she moved to New Mexico "the day after Vice President Cheneys chief aide Scooter Libby was convicted for his role in outing my true CIA identity." (Reporting by Tim Reid; Editing by Colleen Jenkins and Bernadette Baum) London (AFP) - Four males were arrested under terrorism laws on Thursday in connection with the killing of journalist Lyra McKee in Londonderry last month, Northern Ireland's police force said. McKee, 29, was shot in the head during a riot in the second largest city in the British province on 18 April. The act of violence has since been claimed by dissident republican group the New IRA. "Detectives carried out searches at four houses in the city and arrested four people in connection with the violence which was orchestrated on the streets of Creggan on the evening of Lyra McKee's murder," said Police Service of Northern Ireland senior detective Jason Murphy. The four arrested, aged 15, 18, 38 and 51, are being held and questioned in Belfast, police added. The New IRA has apologised over the killing, saying McKee was unintentionally shot as its forces targeted a night-time police raid. A splinter dissident faction, the New IRA seeks the integration of British-ruled Northern Ireland with Ireland -- rejecting non-violent political campaigns to achieve unity. McKee established her career writing about so-called "ceasefire babies" -- the generation that came of age after the 1998 Good Friday Agreement, which ended the conflict known as "The Troubles". Her killing evoked memories of those three decades of violence in the province and sparked condemnation across the political spectrum, including in the neighbouring Republic of Ireland. Three people -- two men aged 18 and 19 and a 57-year-old woman -- so far arrested by Northern Irish police in connection with McKee's killing were all released without charge. - 'Informers will be shot' - Her death follows a recent spate of letter bombings and a car bombing, without fatalities, also claimed by the New IRA. The tempo of fresh attacks has fuelled fears that the political turbulence over Brexit -- which threatens new border checkpoints on the Irish border -- may increase paramilitary activity. Story continues McKee's death has prompted a fresh round of negotiations at Stormont, Northern Ireland's devolved government, which has been suspended in political deadlock since January 2017. "Lyra symbolised the new Northern Ireland and her tragic death cannot be in vain," said British secretary of state for Northern Ireland Karen Bradley, announcing the talks last month. The talks began on Tuesday, with parties promising to negotiate in good faith. McKee's killing also sparked a community backlash against fringe republican paramilitary groups, which regard Londonderry as a historic stronghold. Murals glorifying the armed republican campaign which wound down after the 1998 peace accord were defaced. Meanwhile, friends of the murdered reporter painted blood-red handprints on the headquarters of a political group regarded as the mouthpiece of the New IRA. However, signs appeared last week in the area where McKee was killed warning: "Informers will be shot". Fox & Friends hosts grappled with the New York Timess investigation into President Donald Trumps $1bn business losses on Wednesday morning, with one host saying: "It's beyond what most of us could ever achieve." Ainsley Earhardt said: "If anything, you read this and you're like 'wow, it's pretty impressive, all the things that he's done in his life'." On Tuesday, the Times published an in-depth look at 10 years of Donald Trumps tax figures, seen by their reporters. The figures showed that between the years 1985 and 1994, Mr Trump appeared to have lost more money than nearly any other individual American taxpayer. Fox & Friends is widely considered to be among the most Trump-sympathetic programmes on the right-leaning Fox News. According to White House sources, the president watches the show, which often praises his leadership and condemns criticism of him, on a regular basis. Assessment from reporters who follow both the television show and Mr Trumps tweets and talking points shows that the president regularly mimics arguments presented on the show. Often, such as Wednesday morning, he directly quotes and tags the hosts in tweets. Beyond praising the president for having so much money to lose, the hosts attempted to determine how The New York Times gathered so many tax records, which the president has refused to release. "These tax records, according to The Times, were given to them by somebody who had legal access to them," host Steve Doocy said. "We don't know if that's one of his attorneys or one of his tax guys or if it's somebody in the federal government." "Michael Cohen, maybe?" co-host Brian Kilmeade suggested. For the most part, however, the hosts were simple support of the presidents business losses, which they claimed were above most peoples understanding. Mr Kilmeade in particular chided the medias reaction to the $1bn loss, which was happening as Mr Trump was building a persona as a great businessman, as something negative, as if, if you buy something and it doesnt pan out right away, or ever, youre a loser. He also chimed in, saying it was only significant "if you consider a billion dollars a lot of money." Franco-Nevada (FNV) came out with quarterly earnings of $0.35 per share, beating the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $0.28 per share. This compares to earnings of $0.34 per share a year ago. These figures are adjusted for non-recurring items. This quarterly report represents an earnings surprise of 25%. A quarter ago, it was expected that this precious metals streaming and royalty company would post earnings of $0.26 per share when it actually produced earnings of $0.24, delivering a surprise of -7.69%. Over the last four quarters, the company has surpassed consensus EPS estimates two times. Franco-Nevada, which belongs to the Zacks Mining - Gold industry, posted revenues of $179.80 million for the quarter ended March 2019, surpassing the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 8.22%. This compares to year-ago revenues of $173.10 million. The company has topped consensus revenue estimates two times over the last four quarters. The sustainability of the stock's immediate price movement based on the recently-released numbers and future earnings expectations will mostly depend on management's commentary on the earnings call. Franco-Nevada shares have added about 1.3% since the beginning of the year versus the S&P 500's gain of 15.1%. What's Next for Franco-Nevada? While Franco-Nevada has underperformed the market so far this year, the question that comes to investors' minds is: what's next for the stock? There are no easy answers to this key question, but one reliable measure that can help investors address this is the company's earnings outlook. Not only does this include current consensus earnings expectations for the coming quarter(s), but also how these expectations have changed lately. Empirical research shows a strong correlation between near-term stock movements and trends in earnings estimate revisions. Investors can track such revisions by themselves or rely on a tried-and-tested rating tool like the Zacks Rank, which has an impressive track record of harnessing the power of earnings estimate revisions. Story continues Ahead of this earnings release, the estimate revisions trend for Franco-Nevada was mixed. While the magnitude and direction of estimate revisions could change following the company's just-released earnings report, the current status translates into a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) for the stock. So, the shares are expected to perform in line with the market in the near future. You can see the complete list of today's Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here. It will be interesting to see how estimates for the coming quarters and current fiscal year change in the days ahead. The current consensus EPS estimate is $0.28 on $172.78 million in revenues for the coming quarter and $1.24 on $737.39 million in revenues for the current fiscal year. Investors should be mindful of the fact that the outlook for the industry can have a material impact on the performance of the stock as well. In terms of the Zacks Industry Rank, Mining - Gold is currently in the top 29% of the 250 plus Zacks industries. Our research shows that the top 50% of the Zacks-ranked industries outperform the bottom 50% by a factor of more than 2 to 1. 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 Franco-Nevada Corporation (FNV) : Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Zacks Investment Research It may be a small world, but Disney (DIS) is bringing in gigantic revenue. The company surpassed Wall Streets expectations for the second quarter. Revenue came in at $14.92 billion, with analysts expecting it to come in at $14.36 billion dollars. While appearing on Yahoo Finances The First Trade, Trip Miller of Gullane Capital Partners and a Disney shareholder, said theres even more opportunity for the company. One of the things were most excited to see is the continued strength of its parks business which we view as the Rock of Gibraltar of the Disney brand, Miller said. That rock is a sturdy foundation for the Mouse House, which continues to grow at a steady pace. Disney saw a 5% revenue jump in its parks, experiences and products in Q2. At the same time, guests still bought tickets at a higher price and spent more money at the park. Disney CEO Bob Iger said the parks will continue being a strong source of revenue. We've got a very busy year ahead, including a number of major developments in our parks and resorts, he said during an earnings call. He added, we're looking forward to the grand opening of Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge in our Disneyland Resort on May 31. The excitement around this new land is unbelievable and will only grow once people have a chance to experience it for themselves. In this Wednesday, Jan. 9, 2019 photo, guests watch a show near a statue of Walt Disney and Micky Mouse in front of the Cinderella Castle at the Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. (AP Photo/John Raoux) While Disneys parks continue to be a big source of revenue, the streaming capabilities of the company may open a number of opportunities. Were obviously, going forward, very interested to see how things go with Disney+ and ESPN+ and potentially Hulu as they prepare to roll out this triple-play platform direct to consumers. He even thinks Disney is stacked against streaming giant Netflix (NFLX). Everyone wants to talk about Netflix comparably, but I think Disneys advantage is that they have legacy childrens content, sports, and having that content is valuable, Miller said. Hulu is a question. Well see what happens, but the service is building, and its a wildcard in this with people not knowing how it will turn out. Follow Yahoo Finance on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, Flipboard, LinkedIn, YouTube, and reddit. By Tim Reid LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - Georgia Democrat Stacey Abrams, a rising party star who narrowly fell short of becoming the first female African American governor last year, said on Thursday she is still considering running for president. In an interview on "Pod Save America" with Dan Pfeiffer, a former senior adviser to former Democratic U.S. President Barack Obama, Abrams was asked whether she is considering joining the huge field of Democratic presidential candidates. She replied: "Yes." If Abrams does join the 2020 race, she will add to a field that currently numbers 22 Democrats trying to become the nominee to take on Republican President Donald Trump in next November's election. Abrams, 45, the former Georgia House minority leader, narrowly lost the Georgia governor's race last year against Republican Brian Kemp. She demonstrated how an African American could compete in a Southern state that has voted reliably Republican at a state level in recent years. Abrams was chosen by Democratic leaders in February to deliver the party's response to Trump's State of the Union address. Last month she ruled out running for a U.S. Senate seat in Georgia. (Reporting by Tim Reid; Editing by James Dalgleish) Georgia Governor Brian Kemp speaks after signing the controversial abortion law (Alyssa Pointer/Atlanta Journal-Constitution via AP) A US state has signed into law a proposal that would make it illegal to have an abortion just a few weeks into a pregnancy. From next year, the southern state of Georgia Starting on January 1, will ban abortions after a fetal heartbeat is detected, which can be as early as six weeks, when many women do not know they are pregnant. Opponents have likened the bill to making abortion equivalent to murder in Georgia. They say the bill could put womans lives in danger or even mean a woman who gets an illegal abortion being sent to prison for life. Protestors rally outside of the Georgia State Capitol in Atlanta on Tuesday (Alyssa Pointer/Atlanta Journal-Constitution via AP) Currently, women in the state can get abortions until 20 weeks of pregnancy. But the man who signed the bill, Governor Brian Kemp, was unrepentant. (The bill) is very simple but also very powerful: a declaration that all life has value, that all life matters, and that all life is worthy of protection," he said. I realize that some may challenge it in a court of law. But our job is to do what is right, not what is easy. We are called to be strong and courageous, and we will not back down. We will always continue to fight for life. Backers of the bill shrugged off criticism and said there were other options for women than abortion, including adoption and the morning after pill. Further protests against the bill seem likely (Alyssa Pointer/Atlanta Journal-Constitution via AP) The law would effectively outlaw most abortions. Though the law offers exemptions in cases where there is rape, incest, or dangers to the mother's health, many women will not know they are pregnant until after they have missed the option of having an abortion. A legal challenge seems inevitable. Critics say the legislation would ban safe, legal abortion and criminalize the most intimate decision women and couples make. Women have protested dressed in red cloaks in the style of the Handmaids Tale. Six-week abortion bans are effectively total bans on abortion, as many women don't know they are pregnant at six weeks. I stand with everyone in Georgia and around the country fighting these illegal measures that threaten womens lives and freedoms. https://t.co/Oe213jJDHp Hillary Clinton (@HillaryClinton) May 8, 2019 National opponents include Hillary Clinton said the proposed law amounted to a total ban on abortions in the state. She said the proposed law threatened womens lives and freedoms. By Brijesh Patel (Reuters) - Gold prices edged higher on Tuesday as investors moved away from riskier assets after U.S. President Donald Trump threatened to raise tariffs on Chinese imports, heightening trade tensions and lifting demand for the safe-haven metal. Spot gold was up 0.1 percent at $1,281.04 an ounce at 1120 GMT. U.S. gold futures fell 0.1 percent to $1,282.10. "Donald Trump tweets over the weekend and reactions out of China has sent shockwaves. European equities are further down this morning and this is a situation where gold is seen as a safe-haven," said Quantitative Commodity Research analyst Peter Fertig. "There has been uncertainty in the market since yesterday, which has given gold a push higher." U.S. President Donald Trump said that tariffs on $200 billion worth of Chinese goods would increase to 25 percent from 10 percent on Friday, reversing a decision he made in February to keep them at 10 percent as the two sides made progress on trade talks. Trump's tariff threat weighed across equity markets around the world, in turn supporting gold, which is used by investors to hedge against economic and political instability. "There are significant catalysts for gold with the escalations on the trade-war front yesterday, but it is surprising we have not seen a significant follow through," said Stephen Innes, head of trading and market strategy at SPI Asset Management. Adding to the sentiment, Trump's national security adviser John Bolton on Sunday said that the United States was deploying a carrier strike group and a bomber task force to the Middle East to send a clear message to Iran. "Some are also focusing on the tensions in the Middle East and the two catalysts are sufficient to hold prices but there is a general reluctance to push prices higher over $1,285," Innes added. A faction of the market still expects the United States and China to find common ground and believes that Trump's tariff threat is likely to be a negotiation tactic. Story continues China's commerce ministry confirmed on Tuesday that Vice Premier Liu He will visit the United States over May 9-10 for bilateral trade talks at the invitation of senior U.S. officials. Meanwhile, holdings of SPDR Gold Trust, the world's largest gold-backed exchange-traded fund, continued a dismal run as it fell by 0.16 percent to 739.64 tonnes on Monday, its lowest since Oct. 11. Among other metals, silver was down 0.4 percent at $14.84 an ounce, platinum was little changed at $872.44 and palladium gained 0.2 percent to $1,339.32. (Reporting by Brijesh Patel and Arijit Bose in Bengaluru; Editing by Jon Boyle and David Goodman) By Aradhana Aravindan SINGAPORE (Reuters) - Google said on Thursday an anti-fake news law passed by Singapore's parliament could stunt innovation, a quality that the city-state wants to nurture under plans to expand its tech industry. Singapore's parliament on Wednesday passed the Protection from Online Falsehoods and Manipulation Act, a law criticised by rights groups, journalists and tech firms over fears it could be used to clamp down on freedom of speech. The passage of the law comes at a time when Singapore, a financial and transport hub, has been making efforts to position itself as regional centre for digital innovation. Google said the law could hamper those efforts. "We remain concerned that this law will hurt innovation and the growth of the digital information ecosystem," the company said in response to a query from Reuters. "How the law is implemented matters, and we are committed to working with policymakers on this process." The law will require online media platforms to carry corrections or remove content the government considers to be false, with penalties for perpetrators running as high as prison terms of up to 10 years or fines up to S$1 million ($735,000). The law minister has said the bill will not affect free speech. Singapore says it is vulnerable to fake news because of its position as a global financial hub, its mixed ethnic and religious population and widespread internet access. "We remain concerned with aspects of the new law which grant broad powers to the Singapore executive branch to compel us to remove content they deem to be false and to push a government notification to users," Simon Milner, Facebook's Asia-Pacific vice-president of public policy, said. Milner said Facebook hoped that the ministry's reassuring statements led to a "proportionate and measured approach in practice". Facebook and Singapore clashed late last year when the company refused to remove a post of an online article about the city-state's banks and Malaysia's scandal-linked 1MDB state fund, that the government said was "false and malicious." Story continues A running feud between Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong and his brother and sister over the will of their late father, Singapore's first prime minister Lee Kuan Yew, has also played out over Facebook since it first erupted in public in 2017. The prime minister's siblings have used the social media platform to give their side of a row that disturbed the normally calm politics of a country that has been led by the same party since its independence in 1965. Activists are concerned that the law could give the government power to decide if material posted online is true or false. "Singapore's leaders have crafted a law that will have a chilling affect on internet freedom throughout Southeast Asia," Phil Robertson, deputy Asia director of Human Rights Watch, said in a statement. "(The law will) likely start a new set of information wars as they try to impose their narrow version of 'truth' on the wider world." Asia Internet Coalition, having previously criticised the bill for the new law, said that its members are committed to work with the Singapore government on the law's implementation. "The Asia Internet Coalition reaffirms our members commitment to continue engaging with the Singapore government and to collaborate with all stakeholders to address the issue of deliberate online misinformation," managing director Jeff Paine said. The authorities may also issue codes of practice to technology companies requiring them to take actions against inauthentic accounts used for malicious activities, among other measures. The government consulted with tech companies over the law, including through a parliamentary hearing last year. Twitter Inc said that it hoped the "Singapore government will take into account points we raised through our consultation process and that those recommendations can be reflected in the Codes of Practice, particularly the implications for freedom of expression and the potential for regulatory overreach." (Reporting by Aradhana Aravindan; Editing by Joe Brock & Simon Cameron-Moore) Although it now takes just a little over two hours to fly from London to Venice, 300 years ago it took nearly a year by horse-drawn carriage. In the 17th and 18th centuries, the Grand Tour was a rite of passage in which wealthy young European men, often British, would journey through countries such as France and Italy in search of culture, literature, and art. Instead of bringing back the magnets, key chains, or T-shirts that one would find in a souvenir shop of today, their deep pockets would allow them to commission and collect art. The trip was long and tedious, and the works were just as grand. Interior designer Chahan Minassian of the Paris-based Chahan gallery and Old Masters dealer Jorge Coll, who is a partner at Colnaghi, an art gallery located in Madrid, London, and New York, wanted to recall the tradition of the Grand Tour during the 2019 Venice Biennale. To do so, theyve created an imaginary home of a 21st-century collector thats on view now through November 24. The collaborators picked a picturesque location for the showcase: the ninth-century Abbazia di San Gregorio, a former Benedictine abbey located along Venices Grand Canal. When we were looking for a place to show and expose the artwork, [we] came across this place. The scale of it, the period, and the fact that it was entirely empty with no lighting, no furniturenothing[provided a] blank canvas in a period interior exhibition. [Which allowed us to] show that we could live in a contemporary way, Minassian tells AD PRO. Photo: Jose Manuel Alorda Inside, Minassian mixed together about 350 pieces of the new and the old, juxtaposing contemporary design objects against Old Master works from 300 or more years ago. When entering the former abbey, visitors are greeted by a 17th-century sculpture of Adonis by Gabriel Grupello in the middle of the courtyard, surrounded by four screens composed of a collage of bronze squares. In the first room, two black alabaster second-century Roman sculptures that were dressed in brown marbled onyx in the 16th century stand before a 1973 sculptural wall by Pierre Sabatier. This, says Minassian, is a prime example of what the curators sought to achieve with the exhibition. Our activity here is to show that we could live with museum pieces in a normal [way] and mix them in a contemporary [setting], said Minassian. Story continues The exhibition also pays tribute to the Grand Tour tradition of commissioning a painting of one of Venices vantage points that showed its canals, opulent structures, and beautiful scenery. Venice was like Las Vegas in the 18th century, Coll says. In every corner, you [had] beautiful churches full of treasurespeople would come and have fun, and with the show this is what we want. Collectors, who must visit by appointment only by emailing the gallery, may be drawn to a bronze centaur sculpture made from a cast of a work that was actually acquired on a Grand Tour. Elsewhere, an 18th-century painting of the Grand Canal by Giovanni Battista Cimaroli hangs over a mantel, and just beneath it sits a deconstructed Marie Khouri vessel. A painting by 17th-century Venetian artist Bernardo Canal depicts the Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute along the Grand Canal, which visitors can view from the window. The piece hangs on the wall, above a 1960 Paul Evans black-relief credenza accented with a 1970 gold-and-white lamp by Michel Jaubert. Showcasing your Old Masters in a contemporary way is the new way of showing [them] and making them feasible and accessible for people, says Coll. In the end, it seems that the Grand Tour is still very much alivejust in a vastly different way. Originally Appeared on Architectural Digest (Getty Images) Another day, another breach, is the tune were trolling to these days. This week, Freedom Mobile announced its database had been breached, affecting 15,000 users. Whether or not this data has been misused is still being investigated, but the information was unencrypted. And while this public data was compromised, tech giants like Google are now giving users more control over how long their data lives online. Control and transparency over ones data is a win, but what happens when that data gets into dangerous hands? The global management firm Accenture reported on the cost of cyber crime, surveying 25 Canadian companies, and found they recorded an average of 75 cyber attacks in 2018. This translates to nearly 1.5 attacks per week. Malware and people-based cyberattacks cost Canadians an average of US$9.25 million. And lets not forget about ransomware, a.k.a. malware which holds data hostage until a random is paid. Cyber crime is costly. Ransomware is an issue and hackers usually demand to be paid in bitcoin, Carole Piovesan, co-founder and partner of INQ Data Law, which specializes in cyber security, tells Yahoo Finance Canada. Where theres a ransomware attack, law enforcement may need to be involved. Piovesan says if she were a business today, the first step shed take is document my existing cybersecurity policies and processes to make sure I have a record of what I already do. Next, she would engage an expert and ensure the most robust policies are in place so that the more sensitive the data, the more technical security and comprehensive my cyber preparedness plan is, she says. Piovesan also recommends a cyber fire drill that lays out the plan for what to do when theres a breach. But, what is Canada doing to help? Im confident that the Government of Canada and the agencies of the Government of Canada understand that this may be the greatest threat facing the country today, Honourable Senator Douglas Black tells Yahoo Finance Canada. Story continues As the chairman of the Standing Senate Committee on Banking, Trade and Commerce, Black oversaw the 2018 report, which addresses Canadas cyber security strategy. In the report, the committee recommends the appointment of a cybersecurity minister as well as issuing security tax incentives for businesses. Unfortunately, not all companies care about cyber security enough: a 2017 survey by the Canadian Chamber of Commerce found that 64 per cent of businesses surveyed had no intention of investing in cyber security measures at the time. Now its 2019 and we are in a whole new league of misfortunes. Still, from 2016 to 2018 only 46 per cent of companies worldwide had conducted specific risk assessments into cyber attack vulnerability, according to the report. Since releasing the report in October, Black says the government has created and implemented a national cyber strategy, invested in new budgetary measures to establish a Canadian Centre for Cyber Security and a National Cybercrime Coordination Unit, and has expanded powers for the Chief Information Officer of the Government of Canada. 10 million Canadians have fallen prey to cyber attacks in the last year alone, says Black. And the Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada doesnt have the power to make companies comply with legislation designed to protect Canadian consumers, or to impose fines when companies breach that legislation, which is a problem, he says. Black suggests the need to establish a pool of trained and trusted specialists available to strengthen our systems and catch vulnerabilities before they can be exploited. Black also says the government should encourage Canadians to pursue education in this field with the goal of doubling the number of graduates with cyber security expertise in the next four years. Cyber security needs to be a priority on its own, it cannot fall under the umbrella of another ministry, asserts Black. A lack of focused attention on the issue has brought us to the precarious position we now occupy. Creating a new ministry will allow Canadians to hold the federal government to account for its efforts to keep Canadians safe. And when a national cyber literacy program is created (another recommendation), Black states it should be led by the Canadian Centre for Cyber Security. Canadas breach law came into effect last year, but Piovesan says more needs to be done. Companies need to invest in proper policies for breach preparedness, which includes having retainers in place with legal and forensic experts to be able to react quickly and appropriately. They also need to know how to track their investments in preparedness, she says. GUATEMALA CITY, May 9 (Reuters) - Guatemala's government on Thursday applauded a referendum vote in Belize in favor of sending the countries' long-running territorial dispute to a top U.N. court, saying the move will help deepen bilateral relations between the two neighbors. The Guatemalan foreign ministry said in a statement that it would immediately contact the foreign ministry of Belize to agree on the next steps in efforts to resolve the dispute, which dates back to the colonial era. (Reporting by Sofia Menchu; writing by Julia Love) PARIS, May 9 (Reuters) - French luxury goods group Kering said on Thursday it had agreed to a 1.25 billion euro ($1.40 billion) settlement to draw a line under a dispute with Italian tax authorities centered on its fashion brand Gucci. The company's Swiss-based Luxury Goods International (LGI) subsidiary has been under investigation for allegedly avoiding tax on earnings generated by Gucci in Italy. "The group has concluded today a settlement with the Italian Revenue Agency relating to claims vis-a-vis its Swiss subsidiary," Kering said in a statement. "The settlement will involve the payment of 897 million euros in additional taxes, along with further payment for penalties and interest." Kering would record a tax charge of around 600 million euros in its 2019 accounts as a result, the company said. The settlement is the largest ever agreed by a company with the Italian tax authorities. ($1 = 0.8906 euros) (Reporting by Sarah White; Editing by Sudip Kar-Gupta) BOSTON Harvard University has barred prominent former professor Jorge Dominguez from its campus and stripped him of his emeritus status after an investigation found repeated "unwelcome sexual conduct" targeting multiple students and faculty over four decades. The school Thursday announced the completion of a yearlong Title IX investigation into Dominguez, a government professor who was accused last year amid the #MeToo movement of a pattern of groping and other sexual harassment by at least 18 students and junior faculty members. Harvard also said it now plans to conduct an external review of the school's response to the complaints against Dominguez, a onetime vice provost. Many on the Ivy League campus have criticized how he was retained and even promoted at Harvard despite repeated complaints over the years. Dominguez, an expert in Latin American studies and Cuba in particular, resigned last year after the new allegations, ending a run at Harvard that began in 1972. He had been disciplined by Harvard in 1983 for alleged sexual harassment but was allowed to continue teaching at the university anyway. #METOO: Professors face their own reckoning Claudine Gay, Harvard's dean of the Faculty of Arts and Sciences, in an email to the community Thursday said the investigation, conducted internally by the school, found "a longstanding pattern of behavior that, at several points, violated policies designed to ensure a safe and non-discriminatory educational and work environment." "I am appalled by the reports findings and heartbroken for those who had to endure the behaviors described," Gay said. "Subjecting anyone in our community to unwanted conduct of a sexual nature is unacceptable." She said sanctions include revoking Dominguez's emeritus status, typically reserved for retired faculty, which comes with several privileges including the ability to teach courses on campus. Dominguez has also been disinvited to all Faculty of Arts and Sciences campus and each of its activities held off campus, Gay said, and at her request, Harvard has disinvited him from Harvards campus and from off-campus Harvard-sponsored events. Story continues Harvard did not make the specifics of the report available, including the conduct of Dominguez or the possible failure of Harvard staff to follow up on allegations. Gay cited "tension" in all Title IX cases between the privacy of parties and the broader needs of the community, but said she decided to share the findings and sanctions of this investigation after deciding it is "vital for the safety" of the Harvard community. "Following our policies and procedures has resulted in a set of sanctions that, in effect, removes Jorge Dominguez from our community," Gay said. "This has, in turn, created an obligation for our community to be informed of the removal." Dominguez could not be reached for comment. Harvard's commitment to conduct an external review follows the release of a 52-page report last week from a committee of students that, according to the New York Times, called for the outside investigation and other changes such as the hiring of more female professors and creating an anonymous reporting system for harassment. The Boston Globe reported that the committee's report, which looked at the government department where Dominguez worked, called Dominguez's continued employment a deplorable situation and a prolonged institutional failure. Government students warned other students to avoid late-afternoon meetings with Dominguez and to wear baggy clothing, the study found, according to the Globe, and that his behavior was "an open secret." Many of the women shared their stories with the Chronicle of Higher Education last year how he would try to kiss them, touched the inside of their thigh, pressed his crotch into them during hugs and slid his hand down their back to touch their behinds. Harvard President Lawrence Bacow, in an email Thursday addressed to the committee, agreed to bringing in outside experts for the external review to look at whether the school's "procedures, practices, and norms" have hurt its ability to ensure a safe work environment for all. Bacow pointed to three areas of focus with the Dominguez situation as a guide: What characteristics of Harvard or its culture "might have inhibited" those who have experienced misconduct from reporting it? Are there "impediments to an effective response" when misconduct is reported? How can Harvard ensure promotional decisions are made with a proper understanding of reports or allegations of misconduct? He said he will share further updates on the external review, including who will lead the effort, in the coming weeks. But some at Harvard want more action from the school. The Harvard graduate students union has been pushing for a "third-party, neutral grievance process" for the reporting of sexual harassment in the future. "Harvard failed to manage this growing crisis on its campus for 42 years," Rachel Sandalow-Ash, a second-year student at Harvard Law School, research assistant and union member said in a statement Thursday. "The system is broken. "After countless cases of harassment and zero solutions, its time for Harvard to face facts: the University has failed survivors, and is incapable of fixing this problem internally. Harvard can't be allowed to police itself. We need strong protections against discrimination and harassment in our union contract, including a neutral third-party grievance procedure." This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Harvard bans ex-professor after finding 'unwelcome sexual conduct' spanned four decades Democrats on the House judiciary committee voted on Wednesday to hold the attorney general, William Barr, in contempt of Congress, intensifying the conflict between Donald Trumps administration and the legislative branch of the US government. The move by Democrats comes as Barr refuses to share with Congress the full unredacted version of Robert Muellers report on Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election. But the immediate ramifications of the vote were largely symbolic and unlikely to change the fraught negotiations over the special counsels report or Barrs fate as attorney general. What does it mean to be held in contempt of Congress? Last week, the House judiciary committee chairman, Jerrold Nadler, called on Barr to turn over the unredacted Mueller report and underlying evidence by 6 May. If Barr failed to meet the deadline, Nadler threatened to schedule a vote in his committee to hold the attorney general in contempt. Members of Congress can begin contempt proceedings against individuals over the failure to comply with a subpoena which in this case was Barrs refusal to give US lawmakers access to the full Mueller report. Related: Trump claims 'game over' on Mueller report as Democrats say game on There are three types of contempt referrals Congress can pursue: criminal statutory contempt, which would be prosecuted by the justice department; civil contempt, which would be enforced by the courts under a lawsuit; or inherent contempt, under which Congress can use its own authority to fine or jail an individual. Democrats have not yet said how they plan to proceed. Given the unlikelihood that the justice department would enforce punishment against its own top official, the likely course of action would be for Democrats to pursue the matter in the courts. But first, the full House chamber must approve the contempt resolution against Barr which it likely will under Democratic control. Would Congress actually use its powers to jail William Barr? Story continues While the inherent contempt authority grants US lawmakers the power to jail those who defy a subpoena from Congress, its highly unlikely that Democrats will go that route. The last time Congress exercised its inherent contempt powers was in the 1930s. But thats not to say some Democrats havent expressed support for returning to such drastic measures. Representative Elijah Cummings, the chairman of the House oversight committee, said earlier this week: There is no tool in our toolbox that we should not explore. One challenge for Democrats is that litigating these issues in court could take several months, if not years. Do Democrats have a legitimate case to hold William Barr in contempt? Before holding the contempt vote on Wednesday, Nadler said the Trump administrations stonewalling of his committees requests amounted to a constitutional crisis. Barr has thus far rejected Democrats demands for the full unredacted Mueller report, instead choosing to make a less redacted version available to the top 12 members of Congress, which includes leadership in both chambers and committee heads. Those lawmakers are, however, prohibited from discussing the reports contents with their colleagues. The redactions cover classified information, as well as evidence that pertains to continuing criminal investigations. In an attempt to negotiate with the justice department, Nadler narrowed the scope of his committees request and asked the attorney general to work with Democrats to obtain the grand jury information contained in the Mueller report through a court order. Those talks failed to break the stalemate, resulting in Wednesdays contempt vote. Barrs handling of the Mueller report has drawn a great deal of controversy, with some Democrats going so far as to call for the attorney generals impeachment. It also fits a pattern of the Trump administration stymying Democrats in Congress. This week alone, the White House instructed its former counsel, Don McGahn, not to comply with a subpoena to testify before Congress, while the treasury secretary, Steven Mnuchin, denied a request from the House ways and means committee to release Trumps tax returns. At a minimum, Democrats are sending a clear warning with the contempt vote against Barr that there will be consequences for rebuffing their oversight requests. (Getty Images) Canadas job market bounced back in April in a big way by adding 106,500 jobs, which is the most ever created in a single month since Statistics Canada began tracking the data in 1976. Most of them were full-time (73,000), while 33,600 were part-time. Economists were caught off guard. As a group they were expecting 11,600 new jobs in April. So much for the soft economy, said Avery Shenfeld, chief economist at CIBC, in a research note. Suddenly a lot of Canadian young pepole decided that they needed to work, and they helped power a massive surge in employment in April if today's data are to be taken at face value. The unemployment rate fell to 5.7 per cent. Employment (Statistics Canada) Ontario did a lot of the heavy lifting, by adding 47,000 jobs, Alberta added 21,000. The rebound follows an ugly March loss of 7,200 jobs, which ended the strongest six-month run since 2002. All of a sudden, a rate cut seems less likely. Yields spiked up on the diminished odds that the economy will need a rate cut any time soon, sending the Canadian dollar stronger, said Shenfeld. The loonie was up nearly half a cent in the moments after the jobs data came out. Canadian dollar against the U.S. dollar Brendon Bernard, an economist at Indeed, says employment growth is defying other lukewarm data The working-age employment rate smashed through its previous record to hit an all-time high of 74.5%, told Yahoo Finance Canada. This was partly boosted by a large jump in the youth employment rate, which surged back to levels not seen since 2008. Robert Kavcic, senior economist at BMO, is encouraged that the massive labour force inflows are getting absorbed into the job market. Theres no way for even the staunchest bears to spin itthis is as good of a jobs report as you can get, said Kavcic in a research note. But, here is where wed insert the usual disclaimer to not get too hopped up on any particular LFS report. Jessy Bains is a senior reporter at Yahoo Finance Canada. Follow him on Twitter @jessysbains Download the Yahoo Finance app, available for Apple and Android. From Car and Driver Whenever Audra Tatum of Walker County, Georgia, used to get into the passenger seat of a car, she'd immediately prop her feet up against the dashboard. "My husband would tell me, 'If we have a wreck it's going to break your leg,' " Tatum told NewsChannel 9. "I dismissed him." But on a quick drive to her parents' home to pick up their two sons two years ago, another car T-boned Tatum and her husband. "When the airbag exploded, it pushed my foot up into my face," Tatum said. The force broke not only her ankle and femur, but also her nose and shoulder. This wasn't just a freak accident. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), an airbag deploys in less than 1/20 of a second, or, as the agency describes it, "within the blink of an eye," after a crash. "If you ride with your feet on the dash and you're involved in an accident, the airbag may send your knees through your eye sockets," as the Chattanoga, Tennessee, fire department's Facebook page says. When she got to the hospital after the crash, the doctors told Tatum that if her feet were on the floor of the car, she "wouldn't have had any issues whatsoever." But she still deals with the pain from the accident two years later. "I regret it every single day," Tatum told NewsChannel 9. "Every hour of every day because every time I put pressure on my leg I feel it . . . Do not sit like that." You Might Also Like SIBIU, Romania (Reuters) - European Union leaders meeting in Romania on Thursday will pledge unity "through thick and thin" after the turmoil of Brexit and will have their first go at assigning the bloc's most powerful jobs. The bloc will hold European Parliament elections on May 23-26 and the outgoing chamber has already named its lead candidates - or "Spitzenkandidaten" - to become the next president of the new executive European Commission this autumn. The bloc's national leaders, however, want to hold the process under their control, which sets the scene for much horse-trading this summer. Below please find the leaders' comments on arriving to talks in Romania's city of Sibiu. GREEK PM ALEXIS TSIPRAS "We need a (Commission) president that will support the unity of the European Union. So we need a president that will support the fundamental ideas of the European Union, which is solidarity, democracy, social cohesion." "We need a president who will be against neo-liberalism, against austerity and of course against this xenophobic approach of some extreme-right. So this president is not (Manfred) Weber, this is my position." DUTCH PM MARK RUTTE "I hope Europe will focus on a few important issues, like the internal market, migration, climate. Big on the big things, small on the small things. Europe where a deal is a deal, where the rule of law and democracy is upheld. That type of Europe." LITHUANIAN PRESIDENT DALIA GRYBAUSKAITE "I think it's a little bit out of democratic procedures and treaties," she said of the Spitzenkandidaten process. (Compiled by Gabriela Baczynska) By David Morgan WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. House tax committee Chairman Richard Neal said on Thursday that he will decide by the end of the week whether to subpoena President Donald Trump's tax returns or go to court to obtain the documents, which the administration refuses to hand over. As part of an escalating clash between Democrats and the Trump administration, Neal said he talked with lawyers for the House of Representatives on Thursday about next steps and would have a final discussion with them later in the day. "Now we proceed to the limited options that are left," he told reporters, saying he would choose between issuing a subpoena and proceeding directly to court. "By the end of the week, well make a determination," he said. Amid a broad stonewalling of numerous House probes into Trump's presidency and family and business interests, the administration is opposing Neal's efforts to obtain six years of Trump's individual and business tax returns. As House Ways and Means Committee chairman, Neal is the only House lawmaker authorized to seek Trump's tax returns from the Internal Revenue Service under a federal law that says the Treasury secretary "shall furnish" such documents upon request. Democrats want Trump's returns as part of their inquiry into possible conflicts of interest posed by his continued ownership of extensive business interests, even as he serves as president. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin on Monday denied Neal's formal April 3 request for the returns, arguing that the committee request lacks "a legitimate legislative purpose." Trump has broken with a decades-old precedent among recent U.S. presidents by refusing to release his tax returns while a presidential candidate in 2016 or since being elected, saying he could not do so while his taxes were being audited. Numerous tax experts have said an audit should not be an obstacle to disclosing his returns. His former personal lawyer, Michael Cohen, told a House panel in February that he does not believe Trump's taxes are under audit. Cohen said the president feared releasing his returns could lead to an audit and IRS tax penalties. Some Democrats, angry about Trump's stonewalling, have called for impeaching top administration officials who refuse to comply with congressional investigations. "You do the same thing to anyone else who doesn't want to follow the law," Representative Eric Swalwell, a Democratic presidential candidate and House Judiciary Committee member, said at a Wednesday committee meeting on Barr's contempt citation. "With this lawless administration, I imagine we're also going to see characters like Steve Mnuchin, who's also not following the law when it comes to the president's tax returns," he said. (Reporting by David Morgan and Doina Chiacu; editing by Kevin Drawbaugh and Jonathan Oatis) Spanish Minister of Defense Margarita Robles, on Wednesday, welcomed the cooperation existing between Spain and Morocco in fighting the networks of migrants smuggling operating in the Strait of Gibraltar. We have full confidence in the collaboration with Morocco in the field of the fight against irregular immigration, she told the press on the sidelines of her visit to Moron airbase, in the province of Seville (southern Spain). According to EFE, Robles said a lot of work is being done by both countries in the fight against illegal immigration. She underlined the Spanish governments resolve to continue to work in cooperation with Morocco, as well as to promote a common migration policy in the framework of the European Union. Spanish ABC daily reported last week that the number of irregular migrants reaching Spain has dropped by 52% in April, compared with the same month last year. The daily pointed out that this notable decrease was made possible thanks to cooperation with Morocco and the North African Kingdoms efforts to foil migration operations and dismantle illegal migration networks. Citing data from the International Organization for Migration, the newspaper reported that 820 illegal migrants arrived in Spain in April 2019, compared to 1,706 in April 2018. The significant decline is mainly due to Moroccos success in dismantling irregular migration networks and the security cooperation and information exchange between Morocco and Spain, the Spanish paper stated, highlighting Moroccos positive role in alleviating the migratory pressure on Spain. The downward trend in migrants arrivals has been observed since the beginning of 2019, the paper noted. Regulators warned over a 'clone firm' pretending to be AXA Investments Managers UK Ltd. Photo: AP Photo/Francois Mori Britains financial watchdog has warned investors to look out for clone firms, where fraudsters set up sophisticated copies of respected companies. It says scammers have begun using the tactic as a new way to encourage investors to part with their money for shares, property or other investments which are worthless, overpriced or even non-existent. They use highly similar company names, firm registration numbers, addresses and other details to recognised firms, sometimes mixing genuine and misleading information. The latest such clone firm called out by the regulator in the UK shows an uncanny resemblance to an investment arm of the French insurance giant AXA. AXA Investment Managers UK is a genuine investment management company, authorised to trade in Britain by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). But it has been imitated by a clone firm calling itself AXA Investment Managers UK Limited/ AXA IM Asset Management. READ MORE: Mike Pompeo threatens Britain over Huawei 5G row The clone firm also used a highly similar website www.axa.im.ie.com to the real website, www.axa-im.co.uk, though its page is no longer available. Companies or investors which give money to unauthorised firms are not covered by the Financial Ombudsman Service or Financial Services Compensation Scheme if things go wrong. The FCA says: We strongly advise you to only deal with financial firms that are authorised by us, and check the Financial Services Register to ensure they are. It has information on firms and individuals that are, or have been, regulated by us. If you want to check a consumer credit firm that may not yet have been authorised by us, please also check the Interim Permission Register. If a firm does not appear on the Register but claims it does, contact our Consumer Helpline on 0800 111 6768. AXA Investment Managers UK sent the following comment to Yahoo Finance UK: In recent years we have seen an uptick in company misrepresentation, particularly with financial services fraud becoming more sophisticated and harder to identify by investors. Both the City of London Police and the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) are aware of this trend, and are keen that firms take action themselves to protect their reputation and investors. Story continues Whenever AXA IM has been targeted by impersonators, we take the necessary steps to report the incident directly to the FCA and Action Fraud, the National Fraud & Cyber Crime Reporting Centre run by the City of London Police, so that investigators can begin to trace perpetrators and ultimately protect customers. It is also important that any individuals impacted report any losses to the police, so that a criminal case can be opened. AXA IM lists all instances of impersonation that we are, or become aware of on our website, in order to inform potential investors of impersonators and whose products are therefore fraudulent. AXA IM also sits on the Investment Associations (IA) Financial Crime Committee and has worked closely with the organisation to develop the latest Firm Impersonation Guidelines for its members. This document advises asset managers of the proactive and reactive actions they can take once they have been targeted. One simple measure a member of the IA can take is making sure its page on the FCA website lists the correct phone number so a customer can call a legitimate line to check the validity of a product. We will continue to work alongside the police, the FCA and the IA to not only protect investors, but also to educate firms on fraud and misrepresentation. READ MORE: London to be Facebooks HQ for WhatsApp payment service By Evan Duggan and Karen Freifeld VANCOUVER/NEW YORK (Reuters) - Huawei's chief financial officer intends to seek a stay of extradition proceedings in part based on statements by President Donald Trump about the case, which her lawyers say disqualifies the United States from pursuing the matter in Canada. CFO Meng Wanzhou, 47, the daughter of Huawei Technologies Co Ltd's billionaire founder, Ren Zhengfei, was arrested at Vancouver's airport in December on a U.S. warrant and is fighting extradition on charges that she conspired to defraud global banks about Huawei's relationship with a company operating in Iran. After the arrest, Trump told Reuters he would intervene in the U.S. case against Meng if it would help close a trade deal with China. Meng's defense lawyers said in a document presented to the British Columbia Supreme Court on Wednesday that they intend to apply for the stay of the extradition proceedings based on abuses that go beyond Trump's comments. The lawyers also claim Meng was unlawfully detained, searched and interrogated at the airport, with her arrest delayed under the guise of a routine immigration check. In addition, Meng's counsel argued there is no evidence she misrepresented to a bank Huawei's relationship with a company operating in Iran called Skycom, thereby putting the bank at risk of violating U.S. sanctions law, or that the bank relied on her statements to its detriment. The lawyers claim the bank understood the relationship between Huawei and Skycom. A spokesman for HSBC, which has been identified as the bank, declined to comment. Huawei has previously said Skycom was a local business partner in Iran. The United States maintains it was an unofficial subsidiary used to conceal Huawei's Iran business. Meng defense lawyer Scott Fenton told the court that during Meng's three-hour detention at the airport in December, Meng's rights "were placed in total suspension." Story continues Speaking in Beijing on Thursday, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang again demanded Meng's release and return to China. "The United States and Canada abused their bilateral extradition treaty and took unreasonable compulsory measures against a Chinese citizen, which is a serious violation of the legitimate rights and interests of the Chinese citizen," he said. "This is a serious political incident." NEXT COURT APPEARANCE The lawyers also argue Meng cannot be extradited because the conduct at issue would not be criminal in Canada. The bank and wire fraud charges do not meet that criteria because Meng is accused of misrepresenting HSBC to engage in transactions that violate U.S. sanctions laws, the lawyers said. They also note that, under 2019 Canadian sanction law, there would be no risk of fines or forfeiture for any bank in Canada. "Put another way, the alleged offense could only exist in a country that prohibits international financial transactions in relation to Iran," the lawyers said in court documents. "Canada is no longer such a country." Meng's lawyers did not say when they would apply for the stay of the extradition hearing, whose date has not been set. She will next appear in court on Sept. 23, when her defense will make more applications for further disclosure surrounding her arrest at the airport. The process could take years. Meng's case has attracted global attention and sparked a diplomatic crisis between Beijing and Ottawa. Huawei said in a statement on Wednesday that the criminal case against Meng is based on allegations that are simply not true, adding that the U.S.-ordered arrest was "guided by political considerations and tactics, not by the rule of law." Huawei and Skycom are also defendants in the U.S. case, accused of bank and wire fraud, as well as violating U.S. sanctions on Iran. Meng was released from jail in December on C$10 million ($7.5 million) bail and must wear an electronic ankle bracelet and pay for security guards. She has been living in a Vancouver home that was valued at C$5 million in 2018. Meng arrived at court on Wednesday wearing an elegant full-length black and gray weave-pattern dress, with the ankle monitor prominently visible. At the hearing, her lawyers requested she be allowed to move to a second Vancouver mansion, one which has been under renovation and was assessed at C$13 million last year. Justice Heather J. Holmes granted Meng's request to move to the larger home for security reasons. The relocation is sure to deepen the anger of some Canadians at the difference in her lifestyle and how two Canadians are being held in a Chinese detention center, said Paul Evans, a professor at the University of British Columbia's School of Public Policy and Global Affairs. Chinese police detained the two Canadian citizens after Meng's arrest. In recent weeks, China has upped the pressure on Canada and halted Canadian canola imports and suspended the permits of two major pork producers. (Reporting by Evan Duggan in Vancouver and Karen Freifeld in New York; Additional reporting by David Ljunggren in Ottawa, and Ben Blanchard in Beijing; writing by Denny Thomas; editing by Bill Rigby, Lisa Shumaker and Leslie Adler) Consumer Reports has no financial relationship with advertisers on this site. Consumer Reports has no financial relationship with advertisers on this site. Igloo has recalled 60,000 marine coolers after a child became trapped inside one of the coolers in March. The 5-year-old Florida boy's parents freed him, and he suffered no harm. The coolers pose a hazard when the stainless steel latch automatically locks after the lid is closed. That can trap someone inside the cooler, potentially leading to suffocation, according to the recall notice from the Consumer Product Safety Commission. Marine coolers are more heavy-duty than a typical picnic cooler because theyre designed to withstand the harsh conditions you might encounter on a boathours in direct sunlight, salty seawater, and a rollicking ocean. And because theyre intended to keep fish fresh on fishing trips, theyre better insulated than run-of-the-mill coolers, which would make it more difficult to hear someone trapped inside. The issue with the latch is that the hasp can catch on the padlock ringeven with no lockwhen someone tries to lift the lid. "Given the design of the locking mechanism, it's not surprising that a child could raise the hasp, open the lid, climb in the cooler, and close the lid, causing the hasp to drop over the ring," says Don Huber, CR's director of product safety. "Luckily, in this case, the parent realized quickly that the child was missing and opened the cooler, freeing him. If he hadn't been found quickly, the result could have been tragic." Igloo is replacing that latch with one that flips down but has no center ring. "The replacement latch holds the lid secure but only requires a small amount of force to release," says Brian Garofalow, Igloo's director of marketing. "If a person were trapped inside, they could open the lid simply by pushing up on it with enough force to disengage the latch." Story continues The recall involves five sizes of white Igloo Marine Elite coolers ranging from 54 quarts to 150 quarts. The Igloo logo is embossed on the lock as well as on the outside of the cooler. Larger versions of the cooler have two wheels and a metal handle so that they can be pulled along. The recall was announced by the CPSC on May 8, but two months earlier Igloo had separately issued a safety alert after learning that the Florida boy had become entrapped in a 72-quart cooler while playing hide-and-seek. According to local news reports, the parents realized their son was missing and quickly freed him from the locked cooler. The incident was recorded on the homes security camera, and the family reported it to Igloo. "It has been brought to our attention that a child recently, inadvertently trapped himself inside one of our products, an Igloo spokesperson said in the statement to Local 10 News in south Florida. We are very sorry for the scare this incident must have caused the child and his family, and very happy no one was injured. Garofalow explained that after Igloo learned about the boy's entrapment in March, the company issued the safety alert while also beginning the process of issuing an official recall with the CPSC. That entailed working with its distribution partners and following the CPSC's recall procedure. Details of the Igloo Recall The recall: 60,000 white Igloo Marine Elite coolers with locking stainless steel latches. The coolers were sold in 54-, 72-, 94-, 110-, and 150-quart sizes. The Igloo logo is embossed on the metal latch and on the outside of the cooler. Igloo Marine Elite Cooler and the quart size are printed on a label. The risk: The coolers stainless steel latch can automatically lock when the lid is closed, allowing a person to become locked inside the airtight container, posing entrapment and suffocation hazards. Incidents: Igloo has received one report of a child who became trapped inside the cooler before being freed by an adult. Where and when sold: West Marine, Sportsmans Warehouse, other home and recreational stores nationwide, and online at Amazon.com and igloocoolers.com, from January 2015 through March 2019 for $10 to $180. The remedy: Igloo is proactively sending a free replacement latch to owners who registered their products. If you own the cooler and have not received the new latch, be sure to put the cooler out of reach of children. When the latch arrives, remove the old latch and replace it with the new one. Contact Igloo: For more information, call Igloo at 866-509-3503 or go to its website, igloocoolers.com, and click on Contact Us at the bottom left of the page. To report a defective product: Call the CPSC hotline at 800-638-2772 or go to saferproducts.gov. More from Consumer Reports: Top pick tires for 2016 Best used cars for $25,000 and less 7 best mattresses for couples Consumer Reports is an independent, nonprofit organization that works side by side with consumers to create a fairer, safer, and healthier world. CR does not endorse products or services, and does not accept advertising. Copyright 2019, Consumer Reports, Inc. By Krishna N. Das NEW DELHI, May 9 (Reuters) - India's disparate opposition parties are aiming to firm up an alliance as they sense a chance of unseating Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a staggered general election draws to a close. The seven-phase election, the worlds biggest democratic exercise, began on April 11 and winds up on May 19. Votes will be counted and the result announced on May 23. Modi's Hindu nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) went into the election as front-runner, buoyed by his image as tough and decisive after he ordered a military strike on Pakistan over a militant bomb attack in Indian-controlled Kashmir. But his opponents have maintained their focus on farm distress and unemployment, issues that helped the main opposition Congress party defeat the BJP in state assembly elections in three rural states late last year. Now the opposition believes the tide is turning. "We've all collectively recognized the reality that the BJP is losing significant votes, therefore we are mutually exploring the formation of a cohesive and durable government that will fulfill the aspirations of India," Congress spokesman Sanjay Jha said. He said the negotiations among opposition parties to work out a "viable alternative" to Modi's government would be finalized before the May 23 result. Taking the lead in preparations to take power is N. Chandrababu Naidu, the chief minister of the southern state of Andhra Pradesh, and formerly a BJP ally, according to his regional Telugu Desam Party (TDP). Naidu has been in touch with leaders of most opposition parties, meeting some in person, TDP officials said. Modi and other BJP leaders brush off the opposition threat. BJP President Amit Shah goaded the opposition on Thursday to name its prime ministerial candidate, amid criticism of Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, the scion of the Nehru-Gandhi dynasty that has dominated India's politics for much of its history since independence from Britain in 1947. Story continues Congress's Jha, asked if Gandhi would be candidate for prime minister, said there was "no talent deficit" in the opposition. 'MANY CHOICES' Congress was criticized for failing to strike an election alliance with many anti-Modi regional parties, some of them caste-based and run by politicians with much more experience than Gandhi. They include Mamata Banerjee, the chief minister of West Bengal state, and Mayawati, a former chief minister of Uttar Pradesh state. Naidu has been negotiating with both of them as well as the chief of the Biju Janata Dal (BJD), based in the eastern state of Odisha. Political strategists have said that the BJD, the fifth largest party in the 545-seat lower house of parliament, could emerge as kingmaker. The BJD has also been wooed by Modi, according to two sources with knowledge of the matter, but the party said it would only make a decision after the results are out. TDP spokesman Lanka Dinakar said he was confident the BJD would join with the opposition. "We have many choices to replace Modi," he said. In some good news for Gandhi, the Supreme Court dismissed a petition filed by a BJP member seeking an investigation of suspicion he holds British citizenship. Holding dual nationality is against the law and the government last month asked Gandhi to respond to a separate complaint on the issue filed by a BJP lawmaker. Congress has said Gandhi is an Indian citizen by birth and that he had never held a passport of any other country. A three-judge panel dismissed the petition on Thursday saying it had no merit. "It just goes to show that this government's campaign of lies will never work in the face of truth," Congress said in a message on Twitter after the ruling. (Reporting by Krishna N. Das Additional reporting by Jatindra Dash in BHUBANESWAR, Subrata Nag Choudhury in KOLKATA and Suchitra Mohanty, Manoj Kumar Editing by Alasdair Pal, Robert Birsel) (Reuters) - British drugmaker Indivior Plc on Thursday signed a licensing agreement with HLS Therapeutics Inc for the sale of its schizophrenia drug Perseris in Canada. Perseris, launched in the United States in February, is approved by the FDA for the treatment of schizophrenia in adults. The drug delivers its active ingredient, risperidone, in an extended-release delivery system with no loading doses or oral supplementation recommended. Indivior has been looking to reduce its dependence on its best-selling Suboxone film, after the opioid addiction treatment was hit by steep market share losses to generic rivals. Indivior, which gets most of its revenue from Suboxone in the United States, was indicted last month for illegal marketing of Suboxone in the U.S. and was fined $3 billion. (Reporting by Justin George Varghese in Bengaluru; Editing by James Emmanuel) JAKARTA (Reuters) - Indonesian President Joko Widodo pledged on Thursday to slim the government during his second term and cut red tape hampering investment to achieve an ambitious growth target in Southeast Asia's biggest economy by 2045. The president won an April 17 election based on sample counts of votes by private pollsters, but official results are not due until May 22. "The slimmer our organization, the faster we can run, the more flexibly we can decide on policies," Widodo said, vowing to ax government agencies that do not contribute to growth. He was speaking to hundreds of regional leaders at the launch of "Vision Indonesia 2045", a roadmap to become the world's fifth-biggest economy, with gross domestic product of $7.3 trillion, by the 100th anniversary of independence. Widodo said he would also focus on adding infrastructure and improve human resources, in a speech that voiced frustration at Indonesia's tortuous bureaucracy. Despite his efforts since coming to power in 2014 to ease the path to starting a business, investors still found it difficult to enter some sectors, he added. For example, Widodo said, his administration had cut to 58 from 259 the permits required for power plant investments, but that was still too many and he wanted the figure cut to five. "Five years ago investors came in droves, but only a few were hatched, because we couldn't help them execute," he said. "I'm so annoyed I couldn't solve a problem that is so obvious," he added, referring to red tape. Aides have said Widodo will pursue bolder economic reforms in his second term which runs until 2024, making significant improvements in the investment climate. However, some analysts question whether he will be prepared to take on powerful vested interests and shake up a huge bureaucracy that often manages to blunt reform efforts. Nevertheless, Widodo warned government agencies they could not stick to business as usual, at the risk of missing the 2045 target and trapping Indonesia as a middle-income country. Achieving the target demands average annual economic growth of about 5.7 percent, exceeding the last few years' figure of about 5 percent. "In the next five years, I do not have any burden," Widodo added. "I cannot run again. So anything that is the best for this country I would do." Indonesian presidents are limited to two terms in office. (Reporting by Gayatri Suroyo, Maikel Jefriando; Writing by Fransiska Nangoy; Editing by Ed Davies and Clarence Fernandez) By Agustinus Beo Da Costa JAKARTA, May 9 (Reuters) - A top Indonesian lawmaker has demanded a parliamentary inquiry into the deaths of more than 500 officials during recent elections, most of them linked to fatigue-related illnesses in grueling work conditions. The April 17 vote was the first in a country of 260 million people to combine the presidential vote with national and regional parliamentary ballots, but it took a dramatic toll of the 7 million people who worked on it. The world's largest single-day election is estimated to have drawn 80 percent of the 193 million eligible voters, each of whom had to punch up to five ballot papers in more than 800,000 polling stations. But conducting the vote in a country that spans more than 5,000 km (3,000 miles) across its western and eastern tips has proved both a Herculean feat of logistics and deadly for officials, who had to count ballot papers by hand. "There has never been this kind of precedent in election history anywhere in the world," Fahri Hamzah, the deputy speaker of parliament, told Reuters, calling for parliament's committee on domestic affairs to form an investigation team. Indonesia's election commission (KPU) said 456 staff had died and 4,310 had fallen sick, besides 91 members of the election supervisory agency and 22 police officers who died. The government has agreed to pay compensation of about 36 million rupiah ($2,500) to relatives of the dead, said commission spokesman Arief Priyo Susanto, with further payments to those who suffered disability or injury. Risks include long hours of work under stress, the age and existing health conditions of some staff, and tough work situations, often in sweltering heat, said Ari Fahrial Syam, dean of the medical faculty at the University of Indonesia. People older than 60 should not work on elections, he added. Data from Jakarta, where 18 staff died, showed most of the deaths involved those older than 50 who suffered from diseases ranging from heart attacks to strokes and respiratory failure, Health Minister Nila Moeloek said. Story continues "They already had risk factors, but it is true that heavier workloads, working hours, stress levels and irregular rest schedules are also added (factors)," she told a news conference on Wednesday. Election commissioner Viryan Aziz said 157 staff had died during the 2014 presidential election. "What we are trying to do now is to make sure officials are accompanied by medical personnel throughout the process of local and provincial recapitulation," he added, referring to recounts. Another election commissioner, Pramono Ubaid Tantowi, said authorities could look into ways to separate national and local elections. There have also been calls to adopt electronic voting. But such measures offer little consolation for Masnun Binti Abdul Hamid, whose spouse died after long hours at a polling station at Bekasi in West Java, including a 24-hour stint on election day. She said Abdul Rochim, 40, who had no history of heart disease or high blood pressure, started feeling weak and short of breath two days later, and was taken to hospital but died in intensive care. His wife accepted the death as "destiny" but hoped there would be no more victims. "I do not want this to happen again," she said. (Additional reporting by Yerica Lai; Writing by Ed Davies; Editing by Clarence Fernandez) The actor, who plays Captain America in the "Avengers" movie franchise, is set to star in Antoine Fuqua's futuristic drama, "Infinite," slated for US theatrical release, August 7, 2020. After the immense success of "Avengers: Endgame," Chris Evans is set to star in a new movie from Antoine Fuqua ("Training Day," "Southpaw"). "Infinite" is a sci-fi thriller based on D. Eric Maikranz's 2009 novel, "The Reincarnationist Papers." The plot focuses on a secret society called Cognomina whose members have total recall over their past lives. This virtually immortal group of men and women are perpetually reincarnated over time. A troubled young man, haunted by the memories of two past lives, discovers this centuries-old secret society of similar individuals and dares to join their ranks. Chris Evans takes the lead role as Evan Michaels. The rest of the cast is yet to be announced. The film will be produced by Lorenzo Di Bonaventura, John Zaozirny, John Lee Hancock and Ian Shorr. After "Avengers: Endgame," the American actor has plenty more jobs in the pipeline. He is set to star in four upcoming movies, as well as a TV series, called "Defending Jacob," coming soon to Apple TV+. He also takes a leading role in Ruben Fleischer's "Jekyll & Hyde" adaptation titled "Jekyll," in theaters soon. The International Energy Agency has released the latest in-depth review of Moroccos energy policies, welcoming the institutional, legal and fiscal reforms undertaken by the North African country to promote the sustainable development of the energy sector and the ambitious energy transition pathway it is pursuing. The report was presented in Rabat by Dr Fatih Birol, the International Energy Agencys Executive Director, in the presence of Moroccos Minister of Energy, Aziz Rabbah, the IAE said in a press release Tuesday. The report is the IEAs second in-depth review of Moroccos policies, after a first edition was published in 2014. Morocco joined the IEA Family as an Association country in 2016. I am very pleased to count Morocco as a member of the IEA Family, said Dr Birol. It was the first country in the Middle East and North Africa to join us. Moroccos success in moving towards universal access and phasing out fossil fuel subsidies is a role model for many countries, making it an ideal partner to host regional training and capacity building programs that help to improve energy policy making across Africa. Since the last review, the IEA noted the governments positive efforts to boost renewable investment and pointed out that the worlds largest concentrating solar park at Ouarzazate illustrates Moroccos ambition and technological capability. The agency also underlined efforts to provide access to electricity, and phase out of subsidies for fossil fuel consumption. With the exception of bottled butane, fuel prices are now linked to the international market. Morocco is pursuing an ambitious energy transition pathway, the report stated, noting however that reductions in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030, in line with the countrys commitments to the Paris Agreement, will require the scaling up of private and public investments. The IEAs review provides detailed recommendations to maintain the momentum for reform and increase ambitions for the countrys energy transition. It notes that Morocco has ample opportunities for efficiency improvements and more renewables deployment. For now, the country still relies on oil, gas and coal imports for 90% of its energy needs. In power generation, coal accounts for 54%. In this context, the IEA welcomes the governments renewed focus on energy efficiency, through the National Energy Efficiency Strategy and related action plans, for instance. Public procurement is an important driver for the deployment of cost-effective energy efficiency services and technologies. Morocco also refurbished its coal-fired power generation fleet with efficiency upgrades to ultra-supercritical technology. Providing adequate funding for energy efficiency programs, and coordinating them across government agencies, is also critical, the agency noted. To develop the countrys large renewables resources, the government is pursuing power sector reform, creating a national electricity regulatory authority, developing new interconnections with Spain and Portugal, and planning to boost power trading and integrate its electricity market regionally. The Moroccan Energy Minister and the IEA Executive Director agreed to increase the collaboration between Morocco and the IEA, including through new training activities on energy efficiency policies and data gathering for a wider group of African countries. The review also provides recommendations for strengthening oil, gas and electricity security. Morocco is now fully dependent on oil product imports after the closure of its only refinery in 2015 and needs to invest in storage capacity and strengthen its stockholding regime. Domestic gas discoveries and the global abundance of liquefied natural gas offer a new context for the role of gas in Morocco. The IAE is a Paris-based autonomous intergovernmental organization, which works to accelerate the global energy transition, providing research, statistics, indepth analysis & policy recommendations. By Julia Love MEXICO CITY, May 9 (Reuters) - After a long push in Mexico, China's Huawei landed a coveted job in 2017: supplying equipment for the country's so-called "red compartida," an ambitious telecommunications network built for carriers delivering the latest generation of technology. The contract came with a catch. Altan Redes, the company developing the network, announced that the most delicate work involving the system's "core" and sites near the U.S. border would go to Nokia, and awarded Huawei southern and central Mexico. Political sensitivities around Huawei, which the United States has denounced since 2012 as an untrustworthy agent of the Chinese government, factored into the decision, according to two people with knowledge of the matter. But limiting Huawei Technologies Co Ltd's role was easier said than done. While sites along the U.S. border remain with Nokia, Huawei has since gained work in three cities in northern Mexican regions that Altan had said publicly would go to Nokia, according to four other people with knowledge of the matter and messages viewed by Reuters. Huawei began working in the cities late last year, one of the people said. The three cities - Tampico, Torreon and Culiacan are located in northern Mexico but are not close the border. Altan's plans for the network are fluid and could change, the sources noted. Altan said in a statement that its decision to divide the work between Nokia and Huawei in that way was made "exclusively on technical and economic optimization criteria," adding that it was not informed of U.S. concerns about Huawei. The company said no cities awarded to vendors were reassigned, and Huawei and Nokia "equally delivered their plans." A U.S. State Department official said the department remains concerned that Chinese equipment in 5G networks could give the Chinese government access to sensitive data. A Huawei spokesman described the U.S. campaign as an effort to "attack and contain Huawei, without presenting any concrete evidence." Story continues Huawei's northward expansion in Altan's network, previously unreported, underscores the Chinese firm's combination of speed, manpower and technological sophistication, Mexican telecom executives say. "It's too late" to reverse Huawei's strong presence in Mexico, said Marco Galvan, a senior director for trade group GSMA. Huawei's potent appeal also shows how telecom operators globally are trying to balance the need for the Chinese company's affordable and reliable equipment with the U.S. campaign to steer countries away from using its gear, Mexican telecom executives say. After acquiring two local wireless companies, AT&T removed Huawei equipment from sensitive parts of its Mexican network. But AT&T still uses the Chinese firms gear in the country, according to two people with knowledge of the matter. That is due in part to Huaweis deep bench and swift execution, the people said. When we upgraded our Mexico network to 4G LTE, we replaced Huawei in our data core network because we wanted a data core network design like we have in the United States, AT&T Mexico said in a statement. The approaches taken by Altan and AT&T, detailed in interviews with two dozen people familiar with Huawei's operations, point to new ground rules for working with the Chinese company in Mexico: Limit use of Huawei gear in "the core" - the brains of the cellular network that processes data from towers - and tread carefully along the border. But some telecom experts say it is harder to wall off the core in the coming fifth generation, or 5G, networks. In its statement, Altan said the nearest Huawei cell site equipment is 1,549 km from the border town of Tijuana and 499 km from Matamoros, which neighbors Texas. "The equipment disperses a signal with a radius of 15 kilometers, so there is not even remotely close contact with the northern border," Altan said. Three people familiar with the decision said Altan gave the northern cities to Huawei following some problems with Nokia's performance, including delays submitting documentation and slow response times. Dimitri Diliani, Nokia's global head of end-to-end solutions, said in an interview that the company met all key objectives and its share of the Altan project has not changed. "You always have hiccups and delays," he said. "At the end of the day, we passed all of the hurdles." Specific cities were not assigned in the contract, Diliani said. It is not unusual for some cities to shift within large projects, a Nokia spokeswoman added. Cesar Funes, a Huawei vice president, said Mexican customers have asked the company for its response to the U.S. allegations, but business remains strong. He said he was not aware of whether Huawei had won work in the three cities but noted the company has managed to extend its reach in past projects. Vendors typically start with a certain share of a project, "but based on your performance, you could get more," he said in an interview. "I have experienced that already in this country." The U.S. government has intensified its fight against Huawei as countries prepare to deploy 5G networks, which will serve as the gateway to new technological frontiers such as self-driving cars and internet-connected appliances. Altans wholesale network, which offers capacity to retail telecom competitors in Mexico, is prepared to quickly transition to 5G, the company has said. TENSION AT THE BORDER As early as the 1990s, Huawei executives began pitching their services in Mexico. Competing aggressively on price and recruiting talent, Huawei eventually won big swaths of the market, supplying virtually all major players, including Mexican billionaire Carlos Slim's America Movil. The wholesale network, part of a 2013-14 telecom reform aimed at promoting competition, was an enticing opportunity for Huawei to build a cutting-edge network from scratch, Funes said. Backed by a fund managed by Morgan Stanley Infrastructure and IFC Asset Management Companys China-Mexico Fund, Altan won a tender to launch the network in 2016. The prospect of Chinese participation in a sophisticated national telecom network attracted U.S. scrutiny early on. The U.S. State Department met with Mexico's ministry for communications and transportation twice in 2016 to voice concerns about Huawei's potential involvement in the project, according to a former senior U.S. State Department official. The State Department did not ask Mexico to ban Huawei, but it did warn Mexican officials of security risks posed by the Chinese firm, the former official said. Some Mexican officials questioned why the United States was so concerned since AT&T was working with Huawei in the country, the former official recalled. Salma Jalife, Mexico's undersecretary for communications and technological development, declined to comment. The State Department also met with Mexico's Federal Telecommunications Institute (IFT), which regulates the industry, in late 2016 to discuss concerns regarding Huawei's potential participation in the network, especially along the border, according to a Mexican official. A U.S. State Department official said the government works closely with Mexico and declined to comment on specific meetings. An IFT spokeswoman declined to comment. The Huawei spokesman stressed the company's independence from the Chinese government. Altan ultimately struck its compromise, tapping both Huawei and Nokia. "The balance of the allocation of infrastructure between the technological providers is optimal, avoiding an exclusive dependence on either one," Altan said in a statement. Most carriers in Mexico are still sold on Huawei, said Galvan of GSMA. "(Huawei) brought as many resources as necessary to Mexico from China," he said. "They did what it takes." (Reporting by Julia Love; additional reporting by Tarmo Virki and Lesley Wroughton Editing by Jonathan Weber and Edward Tobin) By Sebastien Malo NEW YORK, May 9 (Thomson Reuters Foundation) - Plunging coffee prices may be pressuring farmers to carve out land in rainforests for survival, the head of the U.S. coffee trade body said, urging more help for growers to cope. Their behavior was even more concerning because felling forests would accelerate climate change and could amplify the volatility of an already fickle coffee market, said Bill Murray, president of the New York-based National Coffee Association. "The initial reaction if prices fall is for a farmer to rip out more rainforest and plant more trees to make more coffee and make more money," he said in an interview at this week's Rainforest Alliance Sustainability Summit in New York. Global coffee prices are hovering around 90 cents a pound (0.45 kg), which in some countries does not even cover production costs, he noted. In the Central American nation of Costa Rica, for instance, the average cost of production stands at about $1.45 per pound. Coffee grows in areas including tropical ecosystems, as do rainforests which play a key role in sucking planet-warming carbon dioxide out of the atmosphere, acting as a brake on rising temperatures. Increasing cultivation of the plant whose bean is used to brew the popular drink may drive deforestation by more than 100,000 hectares (247,105 acres) a year, found a paper presented at a 2014 International Coffee Science Association conference. Murray warned that planting more coffee, potentially on freshly deforested land, could not only damage the environment but also feed a vicious cycle of poverty for small producers by pushing prices down in an already over-supplied market. In the last half century, coffee prices have fluctuated between 50 cents to $3.50 a pound, often because of extreme weather, Murray told the Thomson Reuters Foundation. On a warming planet, prices could experience further "peaks and valleys" as coffee-growing areas experience unseasonal frost, droughts and disease caused by too much rain, he warned. Story continues The head of the group representing more than 90 percent of U.S. coffee commerce, with over 300 members, urged governments to assist farmers in the developing world with foreign aid. Support could include helping them try out new crops on the side and building rural infrastructure, he added. Murray cited the U.S. government's Feed the Future program, which has sought to fight global hunger from Guatemala to Ghana, by boosting agricultural capabilities in selected poor nations. Recently U.S. President Donald Trump decided to cut off Guatemala from the aid initiative and end similar assistance to Honduras and El Salvador, after thousands of their citizens sought asylum at the U.S. southern border. All three Central American countries are important coffee producers, noted Murray. Still, the coffee czar hoped the commodity's cultivation could be turned into the "poster child" of green farming, with many coffee firms joining the Sustainable Coffee Challenge, a partnership set up by Conservation International and Starbucks. "You get up in the morning and you have coffee," said Murray. "We have a relationship with coffee that allows us to think about coffee farmers." (Reporting by Sebastien Malo @sebastienmalo, Editing by Megan Rowling. Please credit the Thomson Reuters Foundation, the charitable arm of Thomson Reuters, that covers climate change, humanitarian news, women's and LGBT+ rights, human trafficking and property rights. Visit http://news.trust.org/climate) * Imamoglu narrowly defeated Erdogan's party in March vote * Says election annulment a blow for democracy * Says confident will win June 23 re-run * Authorities cited irregularities in March 31 election By Daren Butler and Birsen Altayli ISTANBUL, May 9 (Reuters) - Istanbul's ousted mayor says he will go into battle for Turkish democracy next month when he stands in a re-run of an election he thought had granted him the city to govern for five years. Ekrem Imamoglu is confident he will win again on June 23, despite what he calls the theft of the narrow victory he won in March over President Tayyip Erdogan's AK Party, but for him there are also bigger issues at stake. "The Istanbul election has become a symbol for democracy, we can see that. We have a responsibility to democracy as great as our responsibility to Istanbul," he told Reuters on Thursday in an interview. Imamoglu had been in office for less than three weeks when, on Monday - after a series of appeals by Erdogan and the AKP - the High Election Board (YSK) annulled the vote and called a re-run, citing irregularities in the appointment of polling station officials. A former businessman, Imamoglu previously served for five years as the main opposition Republican People's Party (CHP) mayor in Beylikduzu, a middle-class district on the city's western outskirts. On Thursday he was back in that neighborhood, launching his second campaign against former Prime Minister Binali Yildirim, who he just beat in the first vote on March 31. Until then, the AKP and its Islamist predecessors had governed Turkey's largest city for 25 years, presiding over its close-to $4 billion budget. Erdogan, the most dominant figure in national politics since the modern Turkish state's founder Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, launched his own political career as Istanbul mayor before his AK Party won national elections in 2002. 100,000 VOLUNTEERS Imamoglu, 48, said that, in his brief time at city hall, he had uncovered high levels of wastefulness, which he would highlight to voters over the next month and a half. Story continues He said more than 100,000 volunteers had so far come forward to assist with his campaign, which will also focus on developing alternative ways of communicating his message in the face of an overwhelmingly pro-government media. During his time in government, Erdogan has progressively extended his party's influence over areas of Turkish society including the media, while consolidating his power with the introduction of an executive presidency last year. Imamoglu said his campaign would be similar to the one he ran for the March election, focusing on a positive message and steering clear of the combative style common in Turkish politics. He said the experience of the annulment had not changed him and his anger was only focused on those responsible for the decision. "Our campaign has started. We will again be smiling, with warmth and sincerity," he said. "But I am of course angry at a handful of people who have ...dealt democracy the biggest blow." Erdogan's critics at home and abroad have voiced concerns about the rule of law and the resilience of the country's institutions, and investors shifted out of Turkish assets after the election annulment. But Imamoglu retains confidence in the country's political outlook. "Democracy will not end," he said. "Turkey's conscience and feeling of justice will bring this country to democracy. That is why I have no fear at all." His success in dealing a high-profile election blow to Erdogan has led to speculation about his long-term political ambitions. The two men have some things in common. Aside from their mayoral experience, both have family roots in the Black Sea region. But Imamoglu steered clear of commenting on his future plans. "All I am thinking about now is to put right the theft which democracy was subjected to, to give Istanbul the government it deserves," he said. (Reporting by Daren Butler; editing by John Stonestreet) An Iowan man married his girlfriend just five hours before succumbing to liver cancer, KWWL reports. Tristan Laue, 20, an army veteran, married his girlfriend, now Tianna Laue, on April 27. After he proposed to her on Easter, his family and the community came together to throw a wedding in the backyard of his Waverly home within 48 hours. It was a ceremony no one will ever forget. Photo: Facebook Tianna said she's happy the two were, at least, married for a short period of time before her husband passed. "He's the love of my life," Tianna, who shares the same birthday as her partner, told KWWL. "Even, like, talking to my mom and everything, she said, 'Some people don't get what you two had in the amount of time, like they'll be together for years and still not have the same connection that you guys did.'" Tristan joined the United States Army in July 2016. He was medically discharged in April 2018 and attended the University of Northern Iowa from 2018 to 2019. Recently, the university presented him with a certificate for completion of his last semester. Tristan's funeral took place this past Saturday. His friends have since started a GoFundMe in an effort to create a memorial for him. It has raised well over its $3,000 goal as of Thursday afternoon. JERUSALEM (AP) Israel is celebrating 71 years since the country was founded as a haven for Jews in the aftermath of the Holocaust. People flocked to parks and beaches on Thursday to celebrate Independence Day, enjoying barbeques and watching air force flyovers. The celebrations started as Israel transitioned from melancholy Memorial Day for fallen soldiers a bittersweet confluence meant to remind the state what was gained from the sacrifice of war. This year, an escalation with Gaza militants threatened to overshadow the festivities but a cease-fire took hold on Monday. Israel declared independence on May 14, 1948, but marks the holiday according to the Hebrew calendar. Palestinians commemorate it next week as the anniversary of their "nakba," or catastrophe, when hundreds of thousands were uprooted in the war over Israel's creation. BALTIMORE (AP) Officials in Baltimore's City Hall have released a list of items seized by federal agents when they raided former Mayor Catherine Pugh's office. The inventory released Wednesday sheds some light on the ongoing federal investigation into Pugh. She resigned a week after her offices, homes and other locations were raided by FBI and IRS agents and it became clear that a federal grand jury has been empaneled. The seized items include Money Gram receipts, a laptop, compact discs, and a $100,000 check from the University of Maryland Medical System to Pugh's "Healthy Holly" company. They also include paperwork for her "Squeegee Corps" youth program and settlement details for the purchase of one of her city homes. Agents also seized timesheets for Gary Brown, a Pugh aide who was recently fired. WASHINGTON James Comey looked straight into the camera in June 2017 as he uttered his first public denunciation of President Donald Trump. Those were lies, plain and simple, the former FBI director said, as millions of Americans watched his dramatic testimony before the Senate Intelligence Committee. Comey still uses that word lies when he talks about Trump, most recently on Thursday in a CNN town hall where he called Trump a chronic liar who should not be in office. His penchant for metaphors came through in a recent New York Times op-ed in which he described the president as an amoral leader who devours the souls of better men. And in a scathing interview with USA TODAY last year, he declared Trump morally unfit to be president. Comey's outrage has spilled onto the party to which he once belonged he has urged Americans to vote for Democrats in 2020. Hes a quirky Twitter celebrity whose page is an amalgam of pensive nature photos, dad jokes and urgent calls for the public to remove the president who removed him. The CNN forum, which coincided with the second anniversary of his firing by Trump, was only the latest instance in which he garnered the spotlight. Though the town hall format is usually reserved for presidential candidates, Comey dismissed the notion that he is considering a run for public office, saying he'd "never" do so. Still, Comey's immersion into politics is a stark contrast to the world of secrecy and discreetness at the FBI, making him a more polarizing figure in the Trump era. Supporters see his voice as a check on a commander-in-chief whose behavior they find disturbing. But Comey's detractors believe the former FBI director's disdain for Trump influenced the counterintelligence investigation on Russia and the president's campaign. They contend the FBI was biased against Trump. Views on impeachment: Comey says voters should hold Trump accountable in 2020 'landslide,' opposes impeachment Story continues Exclusive: James Comey strikes back against 'morally unfit' Donald Trump in scathing interview Comey isn't just a former FBI director. He's a former FBI director whose actions are consequential to the president. He wrote memos detailing his private conversations with Trump, some of which he found troubling. He orchestrated the release of those memos' contents, hoping to prompt a special counsel's appointment. And those memos became part of special counsel Robert Mueller's investigation that ultimately begat a damaging inside account of Trump's behavior. During the CNN town hall, Comey said Trump would have been prosecuted for obstruction of justice if not for the office he holds. For Comeys critics, every public condemnation risks reinforcing the perception that he and therefore the FBI played in favor of one side over the other. And every criticism places the bureau in a perilous place: in the cross hairs of partisan politics. He is telling the world now that he thinks the president is amoral. That opinion just didnt come out of thin air on the day he was fired, said Mark Morgan, a career FBI official who was an assistant director under Comey. As a former director of the FBI, when he speaks, he still brings the full force of credibility of that position, and so hes not an average citizen when he speaks, and he knows that Every time he speaks, every time he does an op-ed, he continues to do damage to the FBI. Unchartered waters Comey declined to be interviewed. His supporters say he found himself in unchartered waters from the moment the president asked him to lift the cloud of the Russia investigation that has loomed over the administration. A voice like Comeys, supporters say, is critical at a time when the president attacks and spreads falsehoods about the countrys institutions, including the FBI. Clearly, he could stay out of the spotlight. He didnt have to write a book, doesnt have to write speeches, doesnt have to speak out, said Greg Brower, who was the FBIs assistant director for the Office of Congressional Affairs. But, Brower said: He just feels strongly that people need to know what he knows and what he experienced. I admire the fact that hes not afraid to be public about this, Brower said. Friction between Comey and Trump has only intensified. Views on whether the public needs to keep hearing from the controversial FBI director is just as divided as todays partisan government. Where there seems to be consensus is that Comeys post-FBI persona could have a lasting impact on the institution he once led, whether or not he intended to. A self-serving endeavor or a public service? Comey was a beloved FBI director lauded by rank-and-file employees, according to an annual survey of employees. Even for some of his harshest critics, he was a decent leader. He valued diversity in hiring and won the support of women and minorities at the agency, said Bobby Chacon, a former special agent who retired in 2014, during Comeys second year as director. He was intelligent, affable, and an effective communicator, said Morgan, who left the bureau in 2016 and whom Trump recently tapped to lead the Immigration and Customs Enforcement. The turning point, at least for some, happened on July 5, 2016, when Comey departed from FBI policy by delivering a blistering criticism of Hillary Clinton, even as he announced that the then-Democratic presidential candidate would not face charges for her use of a private email server as secretary of state. Comey's decision to share his memos with a friend, who then shared their contents to a reporter, is when he absolutely lost me, said Morgan, who sees his former boss's public life as a self-serving endeavor. Comey town hall: 'No doubt' Trump would be charged with obstruction if not president Like what you're reading?: Download the USA TODAY app for more I have no problem with him pushing back on Trumps criticism of the FBI, but he has taken it way, way beyond that point, Chacon said. Comey defended the FBI again on Thursday, pushing back against notion that the bureau spied on the Trump campaign, a claim that president had made repeatedly. Attorney General William Barr recently claimed that spying did occur on the Trump campaign in 2016. The FBI doesn't spy to begin with. The FBI investigates, Comey said. To stay silent about a mercurial president, who expects people and institutions to bend to his will and attacks those who don't, would have been a disservice, Comey's supporters say. When one joins politicized conversations, given his background, there is a risk that leaders of the bureau in the future would be seen as political actors, said Daniel Richman, a Columbia Law School professor and Comey friend. But theres an even greater risk when the work of the bureau had no defenders. To fulfill that public service, one must be political, said Benjamin Wittes, a senior fellow at Brookings Institution and editor-in-chief of the Lawfare blog, referring to Comey's call to vote for Democrats. If you believe, as I do, that the president is a threat to the rule of law and a threat to the national security of the country, in a two-party system, the only way to respond to that as a voter is to vote for the other party, Wittes said, noting that he doesn't speak for Comey. Jim, for the first time in his life, made some political statements. I think that was deliberate and calculated. Comey wouldve preferred to leave the spotlight, said Richman, the friend whom he asked to share his memos contents to the media. But not just yet. I think hed be quite pleased to retreat from his political profile come November 2020, Richman said. Contextualizing Comey To understand Comey, one needs to look at how he was forced out of government, said Timothy Naftali, a presidential historian. Trump stunned the world when he unceremoniously fired Comey on May 9, 2017 and claimed his decision was based on recommendations by Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein and then-Attorney General Jeff Sessions that Comey be fired for his handling of the Clinton email investigation. But Trump later said he did so because of the Russia investigation the FBI launched in secret months earlier. The circumstances of his firing are so unusual that it makes sense that he chose to take a public opinion, Naftali said. Comey said during the town hall that he hadn't expected to be fired and his removal still feels a little bit numbing two years later. One also needs to look at how Comey approached his leadership of the FBI, said Chuck Wexler, executive director of the Police Executive Research Forum. He was an outspoken FBI director, and remains so as a private citizen. He was speaking out on issues of race and law enforcement. He distinguished himself as being very different for a federal official and seeing his role almost as a bully pulpit one, Wexler said. Comey, for better or worse, was going to distinguish himself as breaking with the past and speaking out on issues. Is he running? Comey, in fact, is not a 2020 contender 'Slow-motion constitutional car crash': Trump, Congress battle over investigations Comey is not the only FBI director to clash with the president. William Sessions was fired in 1993 by President Bill Clinton after Sessions refused to resign. Clinton then appointed Louis Freeh, whose tenure was consumed with criminal investigations of the president and who later published a book criticizing Clinton. But unlike Comey, Sessions' and Freehs post-FBI careers were not saturated with a steady stream of public disputes with the president. Unlike Comey, they did not serve under a president who has publicly expressed his anger and frustration over his own law enforcement agencies and officials, Naftali said. Comey also is not the only former high-ranking law enforcement or intelligence official who found his voice in the Trump era. James Clapper, former director of National Intelligence, John Brennan, former director of the Central Intelligence Agency, and Michael Hayden, former director of the CIA and National Security Agency, all eviscerate Trump on cable news. Chuck Rosenberg, Comeys former chief of staff, has also been critical of Trump. That these men have been so public is, in itself, unusual, Naftali said. What is it about the Trump era that has motivated these men of discretion to be so public? Naftali said. Even as Comey takes sides, many still arent sure where he actually belongs, or where he fits in this era of political tribalism. Hes politically homeless, said Matthew Miller, a former Justice Department spokesman under the Obama administration. Thats probably where hes most comfortable. Contributing: Kevin Johnson This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: James Comey called Trump a 'chronic liar.' What his anti-Trump politics mean for the FBI A Japanese man was sentenced to two years in prison in Ecuador for attempting to smuggle a massive haul of creepy crawlies out of the country, officials said Thursday. The defendant was arrested at the international airport in Quito in March with 248 spiders, cockroaches, wasps, bees and butterflies in his suitcases, the environment ministry said in a statement. Identified only as Hirokazu S., the smuggler was also fined $4,000 and ordered to make a public apology in a national newspaper, the ministry said. Ecuador, a relatively small corner of South America that is home to around 17 million, is one of the most biodiverse nations on the planet. Authorities have banned the capture and sale of all wild animals, but illegal trade persists throughout the Amazon region. The defendant intended to bring the animals, five of which are indigenous to Ecuador and some which were still alive, to the island of Hokkaido in northern Japan. The European Bank for Reconstruction & Development (EBRD) announced on Thursday the approval of a 2 million loan to Societe Maghrebine de Monetique S.A. (S2M), a Moroccan firm that develops e-payments systems. The loan will enable S2M to enhance its competitiveness and increase employment opportunities for young people with on-the-job-training programs Under the Banks Blue Ribbon program, the EBRD funds will further support the growth and development of the Moroccan company. The Program provides finance and business advice specifically for firms that stand out for their market leadership and high-growth potential. It currently includes 47 companies in 26 countries where the Bank invests. The EBRDs financial support will also help raise the S2Ms competitiveness, including via the development of a marketing strategy, and aims to provide employment opportunities for young people with on-the-job-training programs with funding from Italy through the Small Business Impact Fund (Italy, Japan, South Korea, Luxembourg, Sweden, Switzerland, Taipei China and the USA). Supporting small & medium businesses in Morocco are a priority for EBRD. The Bank is providing finance and advice to help deliver modern, transparent, productive and competitive companies that create jobs and strengthen the broader economy. Since the start of its engagement in Morocco in 2012, the EBRD has invested around 1.8 billion, in some 50 projects that also include financing for sustainable energy and infrastructure in addition to its support for private sector firms. After blistering criticism for what angry parents and others characterized as lunch shaming, a Rhode Island school district has backpedaled on a decision to only serve sunflower seed butter and jelly sandwiches to students with unpaid bills. Warwick Public Schools made headlines and provoked hundreds of furious comments on social media after announcing Monday that the cold sandwiches would be provided as the only lunch option to children whose school lunch accounts were in arrears. The students, the district said in a Facebook post, would only get their full lunch privileges back after the balance owed is paid in full or a payment plan is set up through the food service office. The policy was slated to kick in May 13. The backlash, however, was swift and furious. Absolutely disgusting. There are MANY options to take rather than publicly shaming children. These are minor CHILDREN you are shaming for the actions of their parents. Anyone in the district who approved this action should be ashamed of themselves, one person on Facebook commented. Just give the kids lunch, another wrote. We already lost a janitor, science teacher, dont have air conditioning, we cant spring for a chicken patty for a hungry kid? What if this is their only meal of the day? The school district, which has more than 9,000 pre-K through 12th-grade students, initially stood by its sandwich decision. More than 1,600 students had a balance on their lunch accounts, the district said amounting to some $77,000 in lunch debt. It noted that most of the students with lunch debt were not enrolled in the free and reduced-price lunch program. According to the Washington Post, almost 40% of students in Warwick have qualified for free or reduced-price lunches in previous years. We have sent out letters and certified letters to every family, Warwick School Committee chairwoman Karen Bachus told NBC News. All they have to do is contact us to try to work it out. Story continues Bachus said the policy was not aimed at singling out kids with debt, noting that the sunflower butter and jelly sandwich option is on the regular lunch menu. Before we used to give a cheese sandwich which did single them out, but now weve gone with an on-the-menu meal, Bachus said. So whats wrong with that? But these arguments did not assuage critics who described the districts policy as lunch shaming. I just dont think its fair to hold the kids responsible. I think its embarrassing to the kids because now everyones going to know why these children are receiving the lunch that they are, Warwick parent Heather Vale told WLNE-TV. Nationwide, school districts are struggling with unpaid student meal debt. A 2014 report by the Department of Agriculture found that about 45% of school districts had dealt with this problem by providing alternative meals like cheese or jelly sandwiches to students whose families owed lunch money. This is bigger than Warwick, Diane Pratt-Heavner, a spokeswoman for the School Nutrition Association, told The New York Times. Public schools across the country are really struggling with this issue. In a lengthy statement Wednesday, Warwick Public Schools reiterated its problems with its lunch debt and stressed that it offered very flexible payment plans for families. It also continued to defend its jelly sandwich proposal, saying that no student would have been left without a meal and that affected children would have been provided with a balanced lunch of a sun butter and jelly sandwich (which is also a daily choice on the school lunch menu), vegetables, fruit, and milk. The district said, however, that after careful review and consideration, the policy subcommittee of the Warwick School Committee had decided that students should be allowed their choice of lunch regardless of their account status. The district, which had also come under scrutiny for refusing to accept a $4,000 donation from a local restauranteur, also said in its statement that it was grateful for any financial support that has been offered. We are working with our attorneys to ensure that we accept donations in compliance with the law and that the donations are applied in an equitable manner, it wrote. View of the vehicle carrying vice president of the Venezuelan National Assembly Edgar Zambrano - REX Venezuelas government was condemned on Thursday for the arrest of opposition leader Juan Guaidos deputy, which the European Union described as another flagrant violation of the countrys constitution. Edgar Zambrano, the vice president of the national assembly, which Mr Guaido leads, had his car surrounded on Wednesday night by agents from Sebin, the military intelligence. When he refused to get out of the car Sebin used a tow truck to take Mr Zambrano to El Helicoide, Sebins headquarters and cells. "We warn the people of Venezuela and the international community: the regime has kidnapped the first vice-president" said Mr Guaido. Juan Guaido, right, and Edgar Zambranoleave the congress in Caracas Credit: Reuters "They are trying to destroy the power representing all Venezuelans, but they will not achieve it." At the end of March Mr Guaidos chief of staff, Robert Marrero, was also arrested by Sebin dragged from his home in a dawn raid. Mr Guaido himself had his parliamentary immunity stripped on April 2, but so far Nicolas Maduros regime has not dared to detain him. Mr Guaido, head of the national assembly, was declared interim president on January 23 and has been recognised as the countrys legitimate leader by more than 50 countries. Mr Maduro, however, is clinging on despite an uprising last week which saw thousands of protesters and some military defectors take to the streets to back Mr Guaido. Mr Zambrano is one of 10 opposition officials charged with treason, conspiracy and rebellion by the pro-Maduro Supreme Court, in connection to the plot. Opposition supporters took to the streets on May Day to back Mr Guaido Credit: AFP President Donald Trump, who was the first world leader to recognise Mr Guaido, was today reported to be questioning his administrations strategy, and accusing his advisors of underestimating Mr Maduro. Mr Trump described Mr Maduro as a tough cookie, according to three senior officials who spoke to The Washington Post. They told the paper that Mr Trump felt he was misled, and has accused John Bolton, his hawkish national security advisor, of wanting to get the US into a war. Story continues But Marco Rubio, the Florida senator who has emerged as one of the most influential voices in the administration on Venezuela, insisted that Mr Trump was unwavering in his commitment to oust Mr Maduro. Mr Rubio condemned Mr Zambranos arrest, as did a series of Latin American nations. The EUs foreign affairs spokeswoman, Maja Kocijancic, described the kidnapping as a politically motivated action aimed at silencing the National Assembly. She added: "The European Union calls for Edgar Zambrano's immediate release and holds the relevant authorities responsible for his safety and integrity." Venezuela's President Nicolas Maduro greeting troop members during military exercises on May 4 Credit: AFP Washington called the detention "illegal and inexcusable", and warned of "consequences" if Mr Zambrano is not immediately released. Mr Trump said today he was "discussing the terrible abuses by Maduro." Mr Trump did not mention Mr Zambrano, but said the US will stand with the people of Venezuela "for however long it takes!" Mr Trump has insisted for the past three months that all options remain on the table to dislodge Mr Maduro. However, Russian, Chinese and Cuban support for the Chavista leader have made him tricky to remove. And any military intervention risks becoming a quagmire. La dictadura ha secuestrado al Vicepresidente de la @AsambleaVE a manos de su policia politica. Llegaron al absurdo de llevarselo en una grua, a bordo de su vehiculo, violando todos los procesos y exhibiendo el autoritarismo al cual obedecen. Juan Guaido (@jguaido) May 9, 2019 Mike Pence, the vice president, announced earlier this week that he was lifting sanctions on the head of Sebin, who abandoned Mr Maduro on April 30. The move, Mr Pence said, was designed to encourage senior military and intelligence officials to let Mr Maduro go. He also announced that the US was sending a hospital ship to the Venezuelan coast. Other options under discussion to pressure Mr Maduro include sending additional military assets to the region, increasing aid to neighbouring countries such as Colombia, and even sending Navy ships to waters off Venezuela as a show of force. Mr Maduro mocked Mr Pence on Wednesday as a ridiculous white supremacist, adding: All that is left for Mike Pence to do is to put on the hood of the KKK. In a FoxNews.com op-ed and subsequent video essay on the networks streaming service Fox Nation, senior judicial analyst Judge Andrew Napolitano shredded Attorney General William Barr for his misleading and disingenuous attempt to spin the conclusions of the Mueller report, adding that the attorney general was deceptive during his congressional testimony. With the House Judiciary Committee voting Wednesday to recommend the House hold Barr in contempt for failing to turn in the full un-redacted Mueller report, Napolitano said Thursday that the attorney general is also under fire for deceiving Congress, notably for telling the House last month he was unaware of any criticisms from the Mueller team over his initial four-page summary of the reports findings. But of course, Barr did know because Mueller told him in his letter of the complaints his office had about the four-page letter, Napolitano said, adding Mueller made a permanent record of his complaint about Barr's sanitized letter, and Barr hid that record from Congress. Claiming that Barr dropped the ball again by ignoring the Judiciary Committees subpoena for the un-redacted report, the Fox analyst said the attorney general should have sought a judges opinion on the lawfulness of compliance rather than giving the House an opportunity to hold him in contempt. Whats going on here? Napolitano wondered. It is clear that Barr's four-page letter, about which Mueller complained to Barr and some of Mueller's team complained to the media, was a foolish attempt to sanitize the Mueller report. The judge continued: It was misleading, it was disingenuous, it was even deceptive. Also, because Barr could argue that all or nearly all of the Mueller report would soon become public, it was dumb and insulting. Napolitano went on to further criticize Barr for saying Trump had been exonerated on the charge of conspiracy, stating that the DOJ wasnt in the business of exonerating the people it investigates and the Mueller report revealed 127 communications between Russian agents and Trump campaign officials in a 16-month period. Story continues That is hardly an exoneration, he added. The judge, meanwhile, said it was ironic that House Democrats now claim the attorney general violated the same obstruction of justice statutes that the special counsel found President Trump violated. This is a gravely serious charge against the attorney general of the United States, he declared. "Attorney General Barr's prosecutors regularly prosecute defendants for doing what it appears the attorney general himself has done." Interestingly, while Napolitano published the op-ed and video on Thursday morning, the judgewho has been pilloried by the president recently for saying he obstructed justicewas not asked to address any of this during his appearance on Fox & Friends or his subsequent hit on Fox Business Networks Cavuto: Coast to Coast. Read more at The Daily Beast. ABERDEEN, S.D. (AP) South Dakota's ban on out-of-state money for ballot question campaigns is unconstitutional, a federal judge ruled Thursday in blocking state officials from enforcing the new law. U.S. District Judge Charles Kornmann ruled that the first-in-the-nation measure approved by South Dakota voters in November violates First Amendment political speech rights and also violates the Commerce Clause by interfering with interstate transfer of money to ballot question campaigns in South Dakota. The law is scheduled to take effect July 1, but the judge blocked state officials from enforcing it. In his ruling, Kornmann said the evidence "demonstrates how important out-of-state contributions are for the ballot question committees to pursue political speech. The State cannot enact restrictions that so completely prevent those pursuing unpopular laws from amassing the resources necessary for effective advocacy." Former House Speaker Mark Mickelson sponsored the initiative. He said it was necessary to preserve the ballot measure process for state residents and predicted that it would survive legal challenges. Out-of-state donors put more than $10 million into campaigns for or against South Dakota ballot questions during the 2016 election cycle. The new law prohibits contributions to ballot question committees from nonresidents, out-of-state political committees and entities that haven't filed with the secretary of state's office for the preceding four years. When the measure passed in November, Josh Altic, ballot measures project director at online political encyclopedia Ballotpedia, said in an email he's confident the South Dakota measure would be the first statewide prohibition on out-of-state contributions to ballot question campaigns. "Today's ruling is a big win for free speech. Government cannot ban speech because it dislikes who is speaking. South Dakotans have the right to hear messages from all Americans," said legal director Allen Dickerson of the Institute for Free Speech , a Virginia-based organization that along with former South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley represented a coalition of trade associations, an advocacy group and a former South Dakota resident now living in Florida in challenging the law. Story continues The South Dakota Newspaper Association, South Dakota Retailers Association, South Dakota Broadcasters Association and Americans for Prosperity were among those challenging the measure. The law also was challenged by Aberdeen political blogger Cory Heidelberger and his ballot-question committee, SD Voice. The ruling applies to both cases. Executive director David Bordewyk of the South Dakota Newspaper Association said his organization joined the lawsuit because of its concern that the measure violated the First Amendment. "It's not something we took lightly, especially considering that 56 percent of the voters in last year's election approved" the measure, Bordewyk said in a statement to the Yankton Daily Press & Dakotan. He said the judge "made it clear today that (the measure) is not constitutional." The state can appeal. Timothy Bormann, chief of staff for Republican South Dakota Attorney General Jason Ravnsborg, who was elected in November, said in an email to The Associated Press on Thursday that the attorney general's office is reading the decision and "examining the avenues available to our office that best coincide with protecting the best interests of the people and the State of South Dakota." By Brendan Pierson NEW YORK (Reuters) - Some members of an alleged New York sex cult believed their leader had the power to heal the sick and affect the weather, in addition to teaching them self-improvement, a 12-year veteran of the organization said at the founder's criminal trial. Filmmaker Mark Vicente is the second witness to testify against Keith Raniere, who faces crimes including sex trafficking and child pornography for his role running a secretive upstate New York group known as Nxivm. Prosecutors said Raniere forced female "slaves" to have sex with him and in some cases branded them with his initials. "It's a well-intended veneer that covers a horrible evil," an emotional Vicente said during the trial's third day in federal court in Brooklyn. Raniere, who presented himself as a genius whose unique insights would lead to deeply fulfilling lives, enjoyed a near-mythical reputation among his acolytes, said Vicente. "There were rumblings about abilities he had" among Raniere's closest associates, including healing people and influencing the weather, Vicente said. He also said the group's president, Nancy Salzman, once told him, "There's a path to enlightenment through sexuality, and Raniere understands that path." Raniere, 58, has pleaded not guilty. If convicted, he faces life in prison. Prosecutors say women were blackmailed into having sex with Raniere and branded as part of a secret society within Nxivm called DOS, an acronym for a Latin phrase, "Dominus Obsequious Sororium," that roughly means "master of the obedient female companions." Defense lawyer Marc Agnifilo has argued at the trial that members joined voluntarily and were never forced to do anything against their will. Vicente, who has spoken out against Raniere since breaking away from the group in 2017, said Salzman contacted him around 2005 after seeing a film Vicente made about quantum physics and philosophy, saying she wanted to introduce him to Raniere. That meeting led Vicente to begin his association with the group, and he eventually became Nxivm's unofficial videographer, he told jurors. He described how Nxivm members wore an array of striped colored sashes to show their rank, and were encouraged to make their way up the "stripe path." As he rose in the organization, Vicente discovered that Nxivm spied on its members by placing surveillance cameras in their driveways and pressured them to spend thousands of dollars to take its classes. A former Nxivm and DOS member who was only identified by her first name, Sylvie, told jurors on Wednesday she was recruited as a "slave" to another woman in the organization. Her "master" eventually ordered her to engage in sexual activity with Raniere, who also took nude photos of her, she said. Other individuals who say they were victims of the group are expected to testify. Five of Raniere's co-defendants, including the former president Salzman, Seagram liquor heiress Clare Bronfman and former "Smallville" television actress Allison Mack, have pleaded guilty to related crimes. (Reporting by Brendan Pierson, additional reporting by Joseph Ax; Editing by Scott Malone and Jonathan Oatis) Sirieco, a Slovak company plans to set up a plant in Nigeria, to assemble electric cars and manufacture the new-generation incandescent bulbs, the companys CEO Groidis Peter announced during a recent visit to the West African nation. The plant will be located at Calabar in Cross River State, southeast Nigeria, Groidis Peter said. The Governor of Cross River State said the government has offered to build Siriecos factory free of charge in order to encourage them to set up. Once we have achieved this goal, the youth of Cross River will gradually begin to benefit from technology transfer, the Governor said. According to the CEO of Sirieco, the company wants to establish a strong working relationship with the Cross-River State government that will lead to the creation of a center that will be second to none in Africa. He took the opportunity to address journalists in Cross River State to announce that his company also intends to install a plant to produce energy-efficient light bulbs for street lighting. Sirieco Company is not the only automotive company interested in electric power in Nigeria. In 2018, PSC Solar, the research and development arm of PSC Industries, announced its intention to install electric vehicle charging stations in several African countries, including Nigeria, Benin, Ghana and Niger. Electric vehicles are a novel and eco-friendly technology designed to reduce mans dependence on fossil fuel, and potentially a threat to the conventional fuel car market. Top auto assemblers like Volvo, a Swedish vehicle manufacturer, has committed to fitting every car it produced by 2019 with electric or hybrid engines, just as Germanys BMW plans to mass-produce EVs by 2020, offering 12 models by 2025. Nigerian senator, Ben Murray-Bruce, who represents Bayelsa East Senatorial District, has recently tabled an Electric Car Bill before the Senate. Demonstrators gather outside the U.S. Supreme Court in Washington, D.C., on April 23, 2019. (Photo: Shannon Stapleton/Reuters) When Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross announced that a citizenship question would be added to the 2020 census, civil rights advocates loudly cried foul, declaring the question, which last appeared on census forms in 1950, constituted surveillance of vulnerable communities. Seventeen states and the District of Columbia sued Ross to block the change, a case that was fast-tracked to the Supreme Court after a U.S. District Court judge ruled for the plaintiffs in January. In order to meet the deadline for printing census forms, the justices are expected to rule by the end of the current term next month. Legal observers say the justices are likely to allow the question to be added. Since 1790, when the population of the entire country was less than 4 million, the decennial head count of every person living in the U.S. has helped states determine how federal funds, House of Representatives seats and Electoral College votes are allocated according to population size. The census count has always included citizens and noncitizens alike, although in early decades Native Americans werent counted, and slaves counted as three-fifths of a person for purposes such as allocating congressional seats. Under the change proposed by Ross, noncitizens would still be counted, but the plaintiffs in the court case hold that just asking the question would depress responses from households that include noncitizens, even if they are in the country legally. But Ross said the citizenship question, which had been requested by the Justice Department and hadnt been tested for its potential impact on census response rates, would ensure an accurate count of the voting-age population and help enforce the 1965 Voting Rights Act. In the memo announcing the question, he wrote that the Department of Commerce is not able to determine definitively how inclusion of a citizenship question on the decennial census will impact responsiveness. Nevertheless, he wrote, the need for accurate citizenship data and the limited burden that the reinstatement of the citizenship question would impose outweigh fears about a potentially lower response rate. Even allowing for some impact on responses, inclusion of a citizenship question on the 2020 decennial census will provide more complete information for those who respond. Story continues Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross testifies during the House Oversight Committee hearing on Capitol Hill on March 14, 2019. (Photo: Jose Luis Magana/AP) But an undercount of Latinos and immigrant communities that might be reluctant to hand over their information to the government could affect many things besides legislative apportionment funding of government programs, siting of schools and hospitals, and even such seemingly unrelated consequences as employment opportunities. Having an undercount would be problematic for all of the different data users, whether they be government data users, whether it be local communities that use the data, said Christine Pierce, senior vice president of Data Science at Nielsen Global Media, a tech company that collects and analyzes data sets for information about population change or population growth. All of those data sets are ultimately benchmarked to the decennial census. Different employers when they're looking at placing a site in a given location, they'll look at how many people do I have of the working age. How many people do I have of certain population segments? Pierce told Yahoo News. [The citizenship question] can impact not only where employers decide to locate a business, it can also impact retail placement, she added. [Businesses] will look to see where do I want to put a particular store, for example, or what goods and services should be available in this neighborhood. Those decisions, whether made by the private sector or community organizations or government organizations, use census data in allocating those resources or determining where to place a site for their employees. The citizenship question was previously assessed by the Census Bureau to gauge responders concerns about confidentiality, especially among noncitizens, who brought up topics like the Muslim ban, discomfort registering other household members by reporting their demographic characteristics, the dissolution of the DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrival) program, [and] repeated references to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). A test census form will be sent to approximately 480,000 housing units this summer to measure the operational effect of reinstating a citizenship question on self-response rates, according to the Census Bureau, but the wording and placement of the question were not tested before it was added, which is a fundamental concern of Pierce as a data scientist. The decennial census is the largest peacetime operation that the government carries out, she said. Its a huge operation and the planning for that has to occur years in advance and that planning includes testing of the questions to make sure that people understand them and make sure that they understand what the impact of any additional question would be. If that data from the census bureau is not correct, she added, all of these different industries (manufacturing, retail, telecommunications) could end up underestimating the growth or underestimating the presence of different segments of the population that are more likely to be multicultural. This includes the health care industry, which could also be affected by the census citizenship question. It's not a health care question explicitly, but actually it has a huge impact on health, said Ana Tellez, communications director at Human Impact Partners (HIP), a public health organization in Oakland, Calif. Immigration activists rally outside the Supreme Court in Washington, D.C., on April 23, 2019, as the justices hear arguments over the Trump administration's plan to ask about citizenship on the 2020 census. (Photo: J. Scott Applewhite/AP) Federal funding from the CDC and other federal health agencies is determined by the census. If there is undercounting of people, that means states like California or other states where there are larger immigrant populations will get less Medicaid money, Tellez told Yahoo News. They'll get less child health care money or CHIP money, resources that go to families who don't meet the low-income Medicaid requirements but don't make enough to afford health care for their kids. The direct consequences there is that a lot of people will have less access to health care directly. Additionally, health care companies use the census data to understand the demographics of different U.S. populations and communities, which helps them decide where to place or relocate, for example, hospitals or health centers. Another consequence, which is also related to federal funds, said Tellez, is that public health researchers use census data to apply for funding for their research. If the census data is inaccurate as it will be if there's a citizenship question then they're not going to be able to really do the research that they may do if they could say there's X number of Latinx people living in this district, they can no longer say that. They would be less likely to get funding to research what are actually pretty vulnerable populations. Tellez said organizations like hers in California, a state that had an undercount in the last census, are mobilizing to avoid the same pitfall in 2020, including a plan to go door to door in immigrant communities, telling them that it's OK to respond to the census. When asked if the citizenship question would provide a better assessment of who makes up these communities, as the commerce secretary has claimed, and ultimately what they need, Tellez said, No, absolutely not. The reality is this question because it hasn't been asked in over 50 years so people are not used to seeing it on there, because distrust of the government is a real thing we have to address, and because of the political discourse coming from the federal administrations, the reality is [the census inclusive of the citizenship question] is going to undercount people, she said. Tellez added: If the question does get added, unfortunately, it will have consequences for 10 years. What that means is that people who are on the ground advocating are going to spend a lot of resources and a lot of time that they could spend doing other things, getting people to take the census. Meanwhile, a Republican senator is mobilizing to keep the citizenship question on the census after Trump leaves office and beyond the next 10 years. This is America, Steve Daines, R-Mont., told Fox News Wednesday. We are a sovereign nation. Its absurd that we dont know how many citizens and noncitizens are living in this country. Thats why Im introducing this bill to require a citizenship question on the census and ensure that states harboring millions of illegal immigrants are not rewarded with additional taxpayer dollars. It makes no sense why a state like California that harbors millions of illegal immigrants is rewarded with additional representation in Congress and taxpayer resources at the expense of more rural states like Montana, Daines said. That is rewarding illegal behavior. _____ Read more from Yahoo News: Humanitarian groups were reeling Thursday from yet another attack targeting aid workers in Afghanistan, as authorities confirmed nine people had been killed in a Taliban assault in Kabul a day earlier. The targeting of Counterpart International, a US-funded non-profit group working with marginalised people, highlights the continued vulnerability of aid groups across Afghanistan, where some organisations have been forced to suspend operations or pare their presence. Wednesday's attack came during the holy month of Ramadan, and as US and Taliban officials met in Qatar for peace talks -- throwing into question the effectiveness of negotiations. Interior ministry spokesman Nasrat Rahimi said the death toll from a car bomb and follow-up attack in central Kabul had risen from five to nine. Among the victims were three workers -- a driver, a watchman and a technical advisor -- from anti-poverty group CARE, whose offices are next to Counterpart. "This attack reflects the increasing dangers of humanitarian work in conflict-affected countries such as Afghanistan and the unfortunate daily reality of violence for many Afghan families," CARE said in a statement. Afghanistan was once a hub of foreign aid but deteriorating security in recent years has seen international groups shrink their footprint, making it even more difficult to deliver desperately needed help. Last year was particularly deadly. According to the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, 30 aid workers were killed in 2018, compared to 19 in 2017, and 16 in 2016. Save the Children suspended operations across Afghanistan following a 2018 Islamic State group attack on its compound in the eastern city of Jalalabad that killed three employees and wounded several others. Ann Hudock, Counterpart's president and CEO, said attackers had targeted "innocent civilians, development professionals who dedicate their lives to improving the lives of Afghanistan's most vulnerable, including women, youth, and the disabled". Story continues The Taliban, known for their brutal repression and isolation of women before their ouster in 2001, said they hit Counterpart because it promoted the "inter-mixing" of men and women. Insurgent spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid said on Twitter the aid group had mentored "Kabul admin workers in various aspects of brutality, oppression, terror, anti-Islamic ideology & promotion of western culture". Founded in 1965, Counterpart is primarily funded by the US State Department and the US Agency for International Development (USAID). Mujahid accused the group of being "involved in harmful western activities inside Afghanistan". US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said Thursday that Counterpart runs programmes encouraging peace dialogue and opportunities for women, among other initiatives. "This violent attack is a senseless assault on the noble values that the organisations like Counterpart support, such as service to others, education, and inclusion," Pompeo said. - Blast walls shredded - Wednesday's attack began with a car bomb in a busy commercial area. The massive explosion felled trees and shredded concrete blast walls. The blast radius extended hundreds of metres (yards), blowing out windows in nearby homes and businesses. In addition to the nine dead, 20 civilians were wounded in the attack, which saw four Taliban gunmen storm the Counterpoint compound after the blast. They all were killed after Afghan commandos led an hours-long clearance operation. Dozens of workers swept debris and broken glass from streets in the popular Shahr-e-Naw neighbourhood in central Kabul, home to shops, restaurants and hotels. Meanwhile in the Qatari capital Doha, a sixth round of talks between US peace envoy Zalmay Khalilzad and the Taliban ended, with both sides citing some progress. "However, the current pace of talks isn't sufficient when so much conflict rages and innocent people die. We need more and faster progress," Khalilzad tweeted. The two foes have for months been trying to hammer out a deal that could see foreign forces leave Afghanistan in return for a ceasefire, talks between Kabul and the Taliban, and a guarantee the country will not be used as a safe haven for terror groups. Several critics said Wednesday's attack highlighted the apparent contradiction of America asking the Taliban to safeguard Afghanistan, given the group's use of terror tactics. "The 'Taliban' embody crime, which is not amenable to peaceful conflict resolution initiatives," Afghanistan's chief executive Abdullah Abdullah said on Twitter. "They misinterpret our goodwill as weakness and misuse peace negotiations to seek legitimacy for heinous crimes of the sort they committed yesterday in #Kabul." Afghan President Ashraf Ghani last week offered the Taliban a ceasefire beginning on the first day of Ramadan -- but the insurgents refused. In 2017, the Taliban said hurting civilians during Ramadan was a "crime", but this year they claimed jihad was more rewarding during the holy month of fasting and good deeds. Humanitarian groups were reeling Thursday from yet another attack targeting aid workers in Afghanistan, as officials confirmed nine people had been killed in a Taliban attack in Kabul a day earlier. Wednesday's attack outside Counterpart International, a non-profit group working with marginalised people in Afghanistan, began with an immense blast from a car bomb in a busy commercial area in central Kabul. Interior ministry spokesman Nasrat Rahimi said the death toll had risen to nine, including five members of the Afghan security forces, a guard at Counterpoint and three civilians. Anti-poverty group CARE, which has offices close to Counterpart International, said three of its workers -- a driver, a watchman and a technical advisor -- were killed in the blast. "This attack reflects the increasing dangers of humanitarian work in conflict-affected countries such as Afghanistan and the unfortunate daily reality of violence for many Afghan families," CARE said in a statement. In addition, 20 civilians were wounded in the attack, which saw several Taliban gunmen storm the Counterpoint compound after the blast. They were all killed after Afghan commandos led an hours-long clearance operation. Wednesday's massive explosion felled trees and toppled dense concrete blast walls on the street outside Counterpart. The blast radius extended hundreds of metres (yards) in all directions, blowing out windows in nearby homes and businesses. Dozens of workers could be seen sweeping debris and broken glass from streets in the popular Shahr-e-Naw neighbourhood in central Kabul, which is home to shops, restaurants and hotels. The Taliban claimed responsibility for the attack, saying Counterpart International was targeted because it promoted the "inter-mixing" of men and women. Insurgent spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid said on Twitter the aid group had mentored "Kabul admin workers in various aspects of brutality, oppression, terror, anti-Islamic ideology & promotion of western culture." Story continues According to the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, 30 aid workers were killed last year in Afghanistan -- one of the most dangerous countries for humanitarians. Afghanistan was once a hub of foreign aid but deteriorating security has seen international groups downgrade their presence, making it even more difficult to deliver crucial help to the war-torn country's most vulnerable citizens. Several aid groups, including Save the Children, have been the target of terror attacks and have suspended operations in the wake of the assaults. Wednesday's attack came even as US and Taliban officials were meeting in Qatar for peace talks. NAIROBI, Kenya (AP) A Kenyan court has jailed a British national believed to be part of an extremist cell to four years in prison for possession of bomb-making material. Delivering the sentence in a Mombasa court, chief magistrate Evans Makori said Thursday he considered that Jermaine Grant had been in prison since his arrest in 2011. The prosecution wanted Grant jailed for seven years. Grant is already serving a nine-year sentence for forging immigration documents and the four years will be added to his current sentence. Grant is believed to be part of an al-Shabab-linked cell that planned multiple attacks over Christmas in 2011, that were foiled by authorities. Authorities say members of the cell include Samantha Lewthwaite, widow of Jermaine Lindsay, one of the bombers who killed 52 people on London's transport system on July 7, 2005. Kim Kardashian has revealed the corset bodysuit she wore under her skin-tight Met Gala dress. The 38-year-old reality star wore one of her most jaw-dropping looks yet at the star-studded event on Monday night. The Thierry Mugler gown, created by the fashion houses founder, appeared to cling like a second skin to the stars frame, leaving many wondering how Kardashians waist looked so small. READ MORE: How to buy Kim Kardashians teeny tiny Chanel bikini Kim Kardashian revealed her Mr Pearl control underwear and corset. [Photo: Getty/Instagram] The answer? An extremely tight corset and control pant combo. Kardashian revealed the combo in a video filmed by US Vogue. In order to accentuate her waist, she was laced into a corset so tight it prevented her from sitting down. OK, so, Anna, if I dont sit down for dinner, now you know why. Ill be walking around, mingling, talking, but I cannot hardly sit, Kardashian tells the camera, addressing US Vogue editor Anna Winter who has chaired the event since 1995. READ MORE: Kim Kardashian hosts CBD themed baby shower I can only like half sit, she adds. Click on the picture below to see all the best looks from the 2019 Met Gala: The post also reveals the corset garment was custom-made by the worlds foremost corset-maker Mr Pearl. South African born corsetier Pearl, who is also known as Mark Erskine-Pullin, has previously worked with luxury fashion giants including Vivienne Westwood and John Galliano. Of course, it takes more than just an extremely tight corset to create a waist of such epically small proportions. Melissa Alcantara, Kardashians personal trainer, recently opened up about the stars gruelling exercise regime. To make things clear, she wrote in an Instagram story, 1. This dress is corseted BUT 2. Kim trains her ass off 6 days a fking week, she wakes up early AF and is dedicated. In the past, Kardashian has also posted about using a waist trainer a high-compression shaping garment designed for home use in order to keep her waist tiny. Story continues Kardashians Met Gala dress isnt the first figure-hugging look she has squeezed into this year. Back in February, she wore a Thierry Mugler dress so skimpy it barely covered her nipples. Want to participate in a short research study? Help shape the future of investing tools and you could win a $250 gift card! Every investor in Helvetia Holding AG (VTX:HELN) should be aware of the most powerful shareholder groups. Institutions will often hold stock in bigger companies, and we expect to see insiders owning a noticeable percentage of the smaller ones. Companies that have been privatized tend to have low insider ownership. Helvetia Holding has a market capitalization of CHF6.0b, so it's too big to fly under the radar. We'd expect to see both institutions and retail investors owning a portion of the company. Taking a look at our data on the ownership groups (below), it's seems that institutions are noticeable on the share registry. Let's take a closer look to see what the different types of shareholder can tell us about HELN. View our latest analysis for Helvetia Holding SWX:HELN Ownership Summary, May 9th 2019 What Does The Institutional Ownership Tell Us About Helvetia Holding? Institutions typically measure themselves against a benchmark when reporting to their own investors, so they often become more enthusiastic about a stock once it's included in a major index. We would expect most companies to have some institutions on the register, especially if they are growing. Helvetia Holding already has institutions on the share registry. Indeed, they own 24% of the company. This suggests some credibility amongst professional investors. But we can't rely on that fact alone, since institutions make bad investments sometimes, just like everyone does. It is not uncommon to see a big share price drop if two large institutional investors try to sell out of a stock at the same time. So it is worth checking the past earnings trajectory of Helvetia Holding, (below). Of course, keep in mind that there are other factors to consider, too. SWX:HELN Income Statement, May 9th 2019 Helvetia Holding is not owned by hedge funds. There are plenty of analysts covering the stock, so it might be worth seeing what they are forecasting, too. Story continues Insider Ownership Of Helvetia Holding The definition of company insiders can be subjective, and does vary between jurisdictions. Our data reflects individual insiders, capturing board members at the very least. Management ultimately answers to the board. However, it is not uncommon for managers to be executive board members, especially if they are a founder or the CEO. I generally consider insider ownership to be a good thing. However, on some occasions it makes it more difficult for other shareholders to hold the board accountable for decisions. Our most recent data indicates that insiders own less than 1% of Helvetia Holding AG. We do note, however, it is possible insiders have an indirect interest through a private company or other corporate structure. It is a pretty big company, so it would be possible for board members to own a meaningful interest in the company, without owning much of a proportional interest. In this case, they own around CHF10m worth of shares (at current prices). Arguably, recent buying and selling is just as important to consider. You can click here to see if insiders have been buying or selling. General Public Ownership The general public holds a 42% stake in HELN. While this size of ownership may not be enough to sway a policy decision in their favour, they can still make a collective impact on company policies. Private Company Ownership It seems that Private Companies own 34%, of the HELN stock. It's hard to draw any conclusions from this fact alone, so its worth looking into who owns those private companies. Sometimes insiders or other related parties have an interest in shares in a public company through a separate private company. Next Steps: It's always worth thinking about the different groups who own shares in a company. But to understand Helvetia Holding better, we need to consider many other factors. I always like to check for a history of revenue growth. You can too, by accessing this free chart of historic revenue and earnings in this detailed graph. But ultimately it is the future, not the past, that will determine how well the owners of this business will do. Therefore we think it advisable to take a look at this free report showing whether analysts are predicting a brighter future. NB: Figures in this article are calculated using data from the last twelve months, which refer to the 12-month period ending on the last date of the month the financial statement is dated. This may not be consistent with full year annual report figures. We aim to bring you long-term focused research analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. If you spot an error that warrants correction, please contact the editor at editorial-team@simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. Simply Wall St has no position in the stocks mentioned. Thank you for reading. Ghana has become the first-largest gold producer in Africa followed by South Africa, according to data released by the World Bank. According to the Washington-based institution, Ghana exported 158 tons of gold in 2018, about 15% increase over the previous year. Ghana has thus dethroned South Africa and returned to the high volumes of the 1980s. Mining firms operating in the country include Newmont Mining Corporation, Gold Fields, Anglogold Ashanti and Asanko Gold. Rural communities in four regions of Ghana currently affected by the environmental damage and pollution associated with destructive artisanal mining and logging practices are to benefit from a scale-up of the Ghana Forest Investment Program. The World Bank approved this week an additional financing of $19.39 million to the program. The program is already implementing activities focusing on agricultural drivers of deforestation by working with cocoa farmers and communities to rehabilitate and protect forest reserves. The additional financing operation aims at complementing these activities by piloting approaches to and benefits of reclamation of mining sites, which will reduce erosion currently polluting public watercourses and engage the private sector in plantation development to reduce pressure on natural forests. Photo: Alexander Popov/Unsplash If you love live music, there's no time like the present when it comes to getting out and about in Las Vegas. From a performance of British folk songs to tributes to Michael Jackson and Beethoven, here are the local shows worth checking out this week. Hoodline offers data-driven analysis of local happenings and trends across cities. Links included in this article may earn Hoodline a commission on clicks and transactions. BREXIT: The Honor Winds in Concert From the event description: Come celebrate the folk song traditions of the United Kingdom with our final concert of the inaugural season of The Honor Winds. Join us for an evening of beautiful music performed by some of the brightest young stars of our community. When: Sunday, May 12, 5:30-6:30 p.m. Where: Lowden Theater, 541 E. Clark Ave. Price: Free (Send A Kid To Camp); $5 (Student Ticket with ID); $10 (Pre-Concert General Admission) Click here for more details, and to get your tickets "MJ Live" Michael Jackson Tribute Concert From the event description: The world's best tribute to Michael Jackson recreates the electrifying stage show of one of the greatest performers of all time. From iconic dance moves like the moonwalk to timeless hits like "Bad," "Billie Jean," "Thriller" and "Beat It," the spot-on show brings all of the Gloved One's staples to life. He even dips into the Jackson 5 era with favorites like "ABC" and "I Want You Back." Including dazzling lighting and effects, plus the "MJ Live" dancers, this show is a true spectacular fitting of the King of Pop. When: Thursday, May 9, 7 p.m.; Friday, May 10, 7 p.m.; Saturday, May 11, 7 p.m.; Sunday, May 12, 7 p.m. Where: Stratosphere Las Vegas Showroom, 2000 Las Vegas Blvd. S. Price: $44.95 Click here for more details, and to get your tickets Season Finale - Ode To Joy From the event description: Pre-concert conversation at 6:30 p.m. in Reynolds Hall. Donato Cabrera, conductor. Thomas Reif, violin. Program includes Beethoven's Symphony No. 9 in D Minor, Opus 125 Choral. Story continues When: Saturday, May 11, 7:30 p.m. Where: The Smith Center, 361 Symphony Park Ave. Price: $35-105 Click here for more details, and to get your tickets This story was created automatically using local event data, then reviewed by an editor. Click here for more about what we're doing. Got thoughts? Go here to share your feedback. POWAY, Calif. When Shaina heard the first shot, her active shooter training kicked in. Then the 15-year-old paused. It cant be Poway. It cant be us. Then the second shot rang out. She didnt hesitate. Her mother had prepared her for this exact situation. Run, hide and barricade. Never look back. Moments before, Shaina had been babysitting a group of kids on a playground outside the Chabad of Poway synagogue in a suburb of San Diego. It was around 11:15 a.m. on Saturday, April 27. Inside, congregants chanted from the Torah. Now Shaina sprinted through the temples parking lot to the nearby home of a rabbi. The kids she was babysitting followed her like ducklings, Shainas mother would later say. Shaina pounded on the door. Her heart might have been racing but she feigned calmness for the sake of the children surrounding her. Theres an active shooter at the shul, Shaina told the rabbis wife. Among those at Shainas side was a family friend, Noya Dahan, 8. Blood gushed from Noyas leg and speckled her face. Life in Poway Netanya Trestman, 11, was just outside of the sanctuary babysitting children when the shooting started. After hearing gunshots, she immediately ran down the stairs behind the church and ran to find hiding. Netanya poses for an image in front of a gate behind the synagogue that she ran through to hide from the active shooter. Two mothers, Debra and Eden, sent their families to the Chabad of Poway on that Saturday, the last day of Passover. That morning, Debra, a mother of six, had limited breakfast options to offer her three youngest children. USA TODAY agreed at Debra's request not to use her family's last name because they still fear for their safety in the aftermath of the shooting. During Passover, observant Jews eat matzah a cracker-like bread made without yeast while avoiding grains such as bread, pasta and cereal. It was also the Sabbath, a time between sundown Friday and sundown Saturday when observant Jews refrain from driving, cooking, or operating electrical appliances, including their phones. Since Debra couldnt cook breakfast during Shabbat, shed prepared on Friday extra helpings of a classic dish known as matzah brei, which included gluten-free matzah, scrambled with eggs and eaten sweet or savory. After breakfast, Debras three youngest kids Netanya, Shaina and Asher headed to the synagogue with their father, who is a doctor and rabbi. For the family, walking about 25 minutes to the temple was a regular part of observing the Sabbath. Story continues Debra stayed behind. She needed to prepare for a meal that celebrates the end of Passover before joining her family at the synagogue. And she wanted to enjoy a few quiet moments in her normally full house. It was cool and overcast when they started the mile-and-a-half stroll, but the kids soon regretted bringing their jackets once the sun came out. Their walk took them through The City in the Country Poway, California. Nestled between mountains with rocky faces often scorched by the sun, Poway sits on the northern border of San Diegos sprawling city limits. The Pacific Ocean is just over the horizon. The palm trees are starting to thin here. The yards are bigger, compared to the urban core to the south. Its widely considered a safe area. For Eden Dahan and her family, the town is a stark contrast to where they once lived: Eight years ago, they left Israel for a safer life in America. When they left Israel, they had two young children. Now, the Dahans have five all under 10 years old. The family did not want to raise their children surrounded by fire and rockets, said Eden Dahan, mother of Noya. For about three years, the family has loved living in Poway, Eden said. Chabad of Poway had become a second home to the Dahans; the family was always there. And while mass shootings recently occurred at houses of worship in Pittsburgh and New Zealand, Eden couldn't imagine such a tragedy in her hometown. Never look back After growing up in Indiana, Debra wanted to make sure her children were prepared for a tragedy. In some parts of the Midwest, she said, there was overt racism and anti-Semitism. There would be signs like, no Jews or blacks after sundown, she said. And sometimes, the anti-Semitism was rumored. She recalled hearing that a Jewish woman had disappeared in one Indiana city that, she said, had a large Ku Klux Klan contingent. When she had to drive through the city, she said, she travelled during the day and never stopped there. I grew up with fear, she said. I didnt want my kids to be victims. Debra, who served in the U.S. Navy for nearly three decades, felt as if her Jewish children could become targets, even in Poway. She spoke frankly with her family about active shooters the way some parents talk to their kids about drunk driving or sex education. The conversations started when they were in elementary school and intensified after the October shooting at a Pittsburgh synagogue that killed 11 people. Throughout history, Jews have always been brutalized and a lot of times, Jews just took it, Debra said. We didnt fight back. And I wanted to teach my children to be fighters and fight back. Debra taught Shaina and her other kids how to remain safe in active shooter situations. She said that if they werent in the line of fire, they should run as far as possible and hide. If they couldnt run, they should hide and barricade themselves. And she instilled in them the number one rule: Never look back. Debra also trained her children for situations beyond active shooters. When she asks them how to stop a terrorist on an airplane, her three youngest kids respond in unison. Hot water, they say. In his face. Because theres more of you than what Debra prompts them. The terrorist, said 11-year-old Netanya, a teeny girl who wears braces and loves gymnastics. I couldnt see his soul Asher Trestman, 17, was sitting inside of the sanctuary when the shooting started. After hearing multiple gunshots, he ducked, ran outside and hid behind bushes in the synagogue courtyard. Debra's son Asher, 17, and his father were inside the Chabad of Poway sanctuary when a loud noise interrupted the congregants reading of the Torah. It sounded as if a table had tipped over, he said. A moment later, more noises rang out gunshots. Many people in the congregation, including his father, threw themselves under the pews. But Asher ducked, ran outside and hid behind a bush in a courtyard. I knew what I needed to do, but I was still kind of panicked that hed come around, Asher said of the gunman. Asher, like many teenage boys, uses words sparingly until he starts talking about sports. It felt as if he'd been hiding for just a minute or so, he said. Then he heard someone say the synagogue was safe again. I came out, walked through the sanctuary, came through the lobby, and thats when I saw Lori Kaye passed out on the floor, he said. The gunfire came from a 19-year-old suspect who had terror on his mind, San Diego County District Attorney Summer Stephan would tell a room full of reporters days later. The suspect wore a tactical vest and had five additional 10-round magazines, authorities said. He fired eight to 10 shots. Two struck Lori Gilbert-Kaye, fatally wounding her. Rabbi Yisroel Goldstein would tell reporters that she died protecting others from the gunman. I turn around and I see a sight undescribable, Goldstein said, as he choked up. Here is a young man standing with a rifle, pointing right at me, and I look at him. He had sunglasses on. I couldnt see his eyes. I couldnt see his soul. When Goldstein heard more shots, he lifted his hands. A bullet blew off his index finger; he sustained injuries to both hands. Shaina Trestman, 15, was just outside of the sanctuary babysitting children when the shooting started. After hearing gunshots, she immediately ran down the stairs behind the church and ran to find hiding. Noya Dahans uncle Almog Peretz, 34, was also struck by shrapnel as he protected children, authorities later said. The shooting stopped authorities have said the gun may have jammed or the suspect may have had trouble reloading. And the community united in defiance against the shooter. Two congregants one armed and one with military experience jumped into action, chasing the gunman off the property. Moments later, Goldstein says he grabbed a prayer shawl and wrapped up his bloody arms and fingers. He stood on a chair and addressed his congregation. Am Yisrael Chai! he said in Hebrew. We are a Jewish nation that will stand tall. We will not let anyone or anything take us down. Noya Dahan fled with Shaina, but one of Noya's sisters became separated from her family. Sensing the danger, the 5-year-old girl escaped injury by locking herself in the bathroom. But she still heard the terror the gunshots, the cursing. When a rescuer came after the shooting stopped, the 5-year-old asked if the man was the bad guy or the good guy? Eden said of her daughter. As she left the building, the girl saw terrible things, her mother said. She saw the woman dead on the floor. And all the blood she saw everything. It was so bad. Eden said she was at home when the shooting occurred. Soon many of the children fleeing the violence would seek safety with her, she said. One of those children was Noya. In the chaos, it wasnt clear to Eden what had happened so she struggled to make sense of why her daughter was covered in blood: Maybe something happened on the street? Maybe she got (into) an accident? I never had it in my mind that someone came to the synagogue and started shooting. Rabbi Yisroel Goldstein is escorted out of of Chabad of Poway synagogue after speaking to the media on April 28, 2019. Debra was walking to the synagogue when she saw the first police car. She instinctively knew what had happened, she later said. She recalled that a fellow congregant tried to stop her: Dont go up there. Theres an active shooter, But I already knew ... Ive never run so fast in my life. she said. No ones going to hurt my kids. Debra said she arrived at the synagogue before the ambulances. She saw other congregants tending to her friend Gilbert-Kaye, so she focused on locating her family. She found her husband and Asher. She found Shaina, who had hidden in the rabbis house for about 45 minutes. During that time, Shaina had sat on the floor of the home and checked Noyas wounds for bullets. But while she cared for one girl, she worried about another. In the chaotic sprint away from the playground, Shaina and her sister Netanya had become separated. She came out and told me, I lost Netanya, Debra said. Which panicked her, because she knows: Family first. Debras adrenaline kicked into even higher gear. I was so focused on finding her, I did not hear or see a thing at that point, Debra said. "I know people were coming up to me and hugging me and I remember saying to them, get off. She tried to put herself into Netanyas shoes as she racked her brain: Where would she have gone? She combed through the temple, searching for her youngest child. When police made her leave the temple, which was now considered a crime scene, she walloped the doors of homes near the temple, searching for her youngest child. Finally, Debra loudly pounded on the door of the right house. Inside was her 11-year-old daughter, who was startled by the noise. Grieving and healing Debra and her family spent the last afternoon of Passover being interviewed by law enforcement. That evening a sheriffs deputy escorted the family home from the synagogue. The girls had walked to and from the temple every weekend for years; now, they were scared. At home, they discovered that a bouquet of colorful tulips had wilted, seemingly in a matter of hours. Lori Gilbert-Kaye had dropped them off just Thursday and theyd looked vibrant that morning. They died with her, Debra said. In the following days, the two families grieved with their community. Sometimes, the grief manifested as love. When Noya attended a vigil in a Poway park the day after the shooting, hundreds of people cheered for her. At the funeral Monday, Kayes 22-year-old daughter Hannah recognized the children who survived the shooting at the temple. I want these children to know that you are warriors, Hannah said. You are resilient, you are powerful survivors and I am profoundly moved by your bravery. The congregation also grieved in more traditional ways. Each night, they gathered to sit shiva a Jewish mourning ritual that lasts a week. Debra coordinated with other families to bring meals to the Kayes house and provide packets of tissues at the burial. On Tuesday evening, three days after the shooting, a plate of matzah remained on the Debra's dining room table. Passover had ended, but the family had been occupied. Being busy, however, was easier than remaining still. During the day, youre all busy and everything, and then at night, you come back home and youre thinking about everything, Asher said, as his sisters nodded in agreement. Both families said some nights had been particularly difficult. Noya Dahan was still dealing with pain days later, Eden said. She cried at least one night, remembering the terrible events of Saturday. For at least the first days after the shooting, no one in Debra's house slept through the night. Shaina, who normally prefers to sleep alone, had started letting her younger sister climb into her bed. Its more comforting to have other people around, Shaina said. And the girls remained on high alert, listening extra carefully for the next emergency. Shaina jumped at sudden sounds or movements. Her heart raced when she heard a knock on the door or a chair tipping over. Netanya struggled with loud televisions, running water or spinning washing machines. I cant hear anything else if something loud is going on, Netanya said. It freaks me out. As Debra and her family heals, their resolve strengthens. The gunman may have targeted them for being Jewish, but their faith has become stronger for it. The kids were prepared for the situation but, they said, it was a higher power that ensured they survived. God was the reason were all here, Asher said, as he sat with his family around their dining room table. He put everything in the right circumstances. And did lots of miracles, Debra. We know he saved all of us, Shaina said. Because we have a bigger purpose, Debra said. Yes, Netanya said in a small but strong voice. The family has resolved to learn from the tragedy. Should it happen again, they will be even more prepared. Since the shooting at Chabad, Debra said she has revised the familys emergency plan. The kids now know how to indicate they are safe, even if its Shabbat and they cant communicate with each other using cell phones. If theres ever an emergency, they call my mother, who does answer the phone [on Shabbat], she said. She clarified that even if they didnt make the call, you can find someone who will call for you. Heather Fay and her son Marshall pay their respects at the memorial site across Chabad of Poway synagogue. At a press conference three days after the shooting at the Chabad of Poway, the San Diego County District Attorney called the incident a hate crime. When the target of violence is an entire religion, race, ethnicity or sexual orientation, the victim pool becomes very large, Summer Stephan said. It is everyone that practices that faith or belongs to that race or ethnicity, and that is why hate crimes are taken so seriously. It's been comforting, Debra said, to see members of her community respond to the crime with open hearts. On Friday afternoon, nearly a week after the shooting, Debra said she got a surprising delivery. Three law enforcement officials, she said, dropped off a full, kosher Shabbat dinner, including chicken, salads and challah, a traditional braided bread. I was blown away, Debra said. As the community heals, Poway joins other American cities coping with the tragic effects of gun violence. Days after the shooting in Poway, a gunman opened fire at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, killing two students and injuring four others. A week later, one person was killed and eight injured in a shooting at a suburban Denver school. Yet theres still no guide for dealing with the most mundane moments after the unthinkable has occurred. In the days after the shooting, Chabad of Poway congregants were more likely to greet each other with embraces, Debra said, because greetings like how are you? suddenly rang hollow. Why ask the question when they already know nobody slept the previous night? And then when the hugs come, she said, you start crying. Plevin reports for The Desert Sun in Palm Springs, California. Shannon reports for USA TODAY in San Diego. Poway shooting: Congregants heed call to 'fill the synagogue' days after tragedy Rising anti-Semitic hatred is changing Jewish life across the United States One Jewish, one Christian: How the California synagogue shooting tore apart two congregations This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: The last day of Passover: Two families, one shared tragedy at Poway synagogue SIBIU, Romania (AP) The Latest on the European Union summit in Romania (all times local): 7:45 p.m. Not everybody comes with gloves to a European Union summit, but European Council President Donald Tusk could not resist. At least, they weren't boxing gloves. While in Romania, where EU leaders held a summit Thursday, Tusk met with former Steaua Bucharest soccer goalie Helmuth Duckadam, who gave the EU official a pair of goalkeeper gloves. Duckadam is a national hero in Romania because he stopped four penalty kicks in the shootout of the 1986 European Cup final against Barcelona. As a devoted soccer fan for decades, Tusk knew of him. Tusk lauded Duckadam's 1986 performance in January when he asked the Romanian government to defend democratic rights "with the same determination as Helmuth Duckadam when he defended penalty shots." The summit, where leaders issued a joint declaration of unity, gave Tusk another chance to use Duckadam as an example. He said: "I received these gloves from Helmuth Duckadam and a piece of advice on how to defend our European interests more effectively." ___ 5:45 p.m. European Council President Donald Tusk says the European Union "stands united" behind Cyprus as tensions between the Mediterranean island nation and Turkey escalate over offshore gas drilling. Speaking Thursday after an informal EU summit in Romania, Tusk said the EU "expects Turkey to respect the sovereign rights" of its member nation and the bloc will closely monitor the situation. Cypriot President Nicos Anastasiades told other EU leaders that Turkey is launching a bid to drill for gas in waters where Cyprus has exclusive economic rights. Cypriot authorities say the Turkish drillship Fatih is anchored about 68 kilometers (42 miles) off the southwestern Cypriot resort town of Paphos, escorted by support ships and a Turkish navy frigate, but hasn't started drilling yet. Anastasiades described Ankara's actions as tantamount to a new invasion. Turkey invaded Cyprus in 1974 in response to an attempted coup by supporters of uniting the island with Greece. Story continues ___ 5:20 p.m. The European Union will be holding an extra summit two days after the European Parliament elections end on May 26 to assess who should get three top jobs that will be vacated in the fall. Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz confirmed the May 28 date on Thursday. The summit is intended to get everyone in place by the time European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker leaves his post at the end of October. Mario Draghi, head of the European Central Bank, also departs at the end of October. Donald Tusk's will step down as European Council president a month later. Tusk said this month's summit should streamline the procedures for picking candidates and all of the posts should be filled during a June summit in Brussels ___ 5:40 p.m. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan says his country is "stubbornly" pursuing European Union membership despite efforts in some circles to keep Turkey out of "the European family." Erdogan attended a meeting in Ankara on Thursday to review the needed steps to advance Turkey's EU membership bid. He said that without Turkey, the EU won't effectively combat "existential threats" to its founding principles, such as Islamophobia and hostility toward migrants. The EU relies on Turkey to stem the flow of asylum-seekers to Europe. In his speech, Erdogan accused the EU of leaving Turkey alone to shoulder the refugee burden. The country is home to 3.6 million Syrian refugees. Turkey began EU membership negotiations in 2005 but the talks have stalled. __ 4:15 p.m. The head of the European Commission says Romania, which currently holds the European Union's rotating presidency, must make further efforts to fully reach European standards on rule of law. Jean-Claude Juncker's comments Thursday came following internal political turmoil that has seen the country's president and prime minister at loggerheads, and the head of its governing party convicted for vote-rigging and suing the EU. The EU will continue dialogue with Romanian authorities, Juncker said as he arrived for an EU summit in the picturesque Transylvanian town of Sibiu. "They have to make efforts to reach the virtuous European crossroads." President Klaus Iohannis has openly acknowledged the effect of the political crisis on his country's EU standing. ___ 1:35 p.m. The leaders of the European Union, minus Britain, have agreed on a declaration to face the future as one tight, united bloc where common action will determine its success. The 27 leaders said Thursday that they will "stay united, through thick and thin" and improve its common defenses. They vow to maintain strong democratic rule of law principles, which many say have come under pressure over the past years in nations from Hungary to Poland. In what they call "the spirit of Sibiu," in reference to the Romanian city where they met for the summit, they promise to stick together as one in a global environment "to make the most of new trading opportunities and to jointly tackle global issues such as preserving our environment and fighting climate change." ___ 12:50 p.m. French president Emmanuel Macron says that the European Union electorate faces a stark choice between building a common European future or a return to nationalism. Macron said ahead of an EU summit in Romania that the rise of populism across the continent had put the choice in a stark light and will have to be addressed at the May 23-26 elections. "The rift is there in all European nations," he said. "The alternative will be clear. Do we still want to continue building together, even if differently, to make things better," he said. "Or do we want to deconstruct, destroy Europe and turn back to nationalism?" ___ 12:30 p.m. Cyprus President Nicos Anastasiades is seeking support from other European Union leaders at an informal summit in Romania against Turkey's bid to drill for hydrocarbons in waters where the Mediterranean island nation has exclusive economic rights. Cypriot government spokesman Prodromos Prodromou said Anastasiades raised the issue during a Thursday meeting of the European People's Party ahead of the summit, informing leaders about "Turkey's blatant and unprecedented violations" of Cyprus' exclusive economic zone. Prodromou said Anastasiades' EPP counterparts "condemn the Turkish intervention (and) call on Turkey to abandon these illegal activities." Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras said he would also bring up the matter, which was "a European issue and not just a Cypriot one," adding that "international law cannot be violated." Turkey says its actions adhere to international law. ___ 9 a.m. Even at a summit of unity, European Union leaders will always find something to disagree about. The 27 EU nations, minus Britain, will be plotting a united way ahead in the wake of Brexit negotiations which have preoccupied the bloc for the past two years. Britain is still nominally a member, but Prime Minister Theresa May is staying in London seeking a belated breakthrough to get the Brexit deal through the U.K. Parliament. In the Romanian president's hometown of Sibiu, the other EU leaders will be seeking to start dealing with the five-yearly rite of attributing top jobs, now that European Council President Donald Tusk and European Commission chief Jean-Claude Juncker are leaving later this year. It promises to be a mighty tussle. LOS ANGELES (AP) The Latest on the California Coastal Commission fining a hotel developer (all times local): 8:55 p.m. The California Coastal Commission has fined a developer a record $15.58 million for building a high-priced hotel after obtaining a permit for property with moderately priced rooms. The commission voted unanimously Wednesday to punish Sunshine Enterprises, lambasting the firm for what one commissioner called "environmental injustice." Officials say the developer violated the landmark Coastal Act that protects public beach access, including the availability of less-expensive rooms. Sunshine Enterprises was permitted to expand two modest hotels near the Santa Monica Pier, offering rooms for about $165 a night. The company let the permit expire and instead built a hotel where rooms run $300 to $800. Sunshine Enterprises says it regrets the violations and will comply with the commission going forward. ___ 11:41 p.m. A developer could be hit with a record $25 million in fines and fees for constructing a high-priced hotel on the Southern California coast after obtaining a permit for a property with moderately priced rooms. The California Coastal Commission is expected Wednesday to approve a $15 million fine and recommend an additional $9.5 million in mitigation fees for Sunshine Enterprises. Officials say the developer violated the state's landmark Coastal Act that protects public beach access and availability of less-expensive rooms. Sunshine Enterprises was permitted to expand two modest hotels near the Santa Monica Pier, offering rooms for about $165 a night. The company let the permit expire and instead built the Shore Hotel, where rooms cost between $300 and $800. Sunshine Enterprises says it regrets the violations and will do what it takes to comply with the commission going forward. ___ Follow Weber at https://twitter.com/WeberCM NEW YORK (AP) The Latest on the sentencing of the fake German heiress (all times local): 3 p.m. A judge has sentenced the fake German heiress Anna Sorokin to four to 12 years behind bars for defrauding New York banks and hotels. Judge Diane Kiesel says she was "stunned by the depth of the defendant's deception" at the sentencing Thursday afternoon in Manhattan state court. The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement says it will seek to deport Sorokin to Germany following her release from state custody. ICE said she Sorokin overstayed her 2017 visa. The 28-year-old was found guilty last month of swindling some $200,000 through a series of scams. She was convicted of grand larceny and theft of services. Prosecutors said she overdrew a bank account and forged financial records to further the ruse. Sorokin's attorney insisted she intended to pay the money back. But prosecutors said she has "not a cent" to her name. ___ 1:10 a.m. A fake German heiress who swindled tens of thousands of dollars from New York banks and hotels is set to learn her punishment. Anna Sorokin will be sentenced Thursday in state court following her conviction for theft of services and grand larceny. Sorokin's defense attorney has said she faces up to 15 years in prison on the most serious charge. She also faces could be deported to Germany for overstaying her visa. A Manhattan jury last month found Sorokin guilty of defrauding banks, hotels and friends of more than $200,000. Prosecutors said she attempted to steal millions more through multiple scams. Sorokin falsely claimed her father was a diplomat or an oil baron. Her attorney argued she never intended to commit a crime and planned to pay the money back. SEOUL, South Korea (AP) The Latest on North Korea test firing at least one projectile off its western coast (all times local): 7:40 a.m. North Korea's state-run media says Chairman Kim Jong Un helped guide the firing of two suspected short-range missiles toward the sea. South Korean officials say Thursday's event was the second weapons launch in five days and a possible warning that nuclear disarmament talks with Washington could be in danger. The Korean Central News Agency says that "at the command post Supreme Leader Kim Jong Un learned about a plan of the strike drill of various long-range strike means and gave an order of start of the drill." The agency says Kim expressed "satisfaction with the deployment and strike assault" and noted that the drill "showed the full preparations of the defence units on the western front and the excellent ability of the units in the forefront area to carry out the task of strike, in particular." ___ 1:40 a.m. President Donald Trump says he's not happy about North Korea's recent military tests. Trump tells reporters at the White House on Thursday that "we're looking" at the situation "very seriously right now." He says the weapons are smaller, short-range missiles, but adds: "Nobody's happy about it." North Korea on Thursday described its firing of rocket artillery and an apparent short-range ballistic missile over the weekend as a regular and defensive military exercise. In another sign of diminishing relations, the Pentagon also said Wednesday that it has suspended its efforts to arrange negotiations on recovering additional remains of U.S. service members killed in the North during the Korean War. Trump, who has met with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un twice now, says: "I don't think they're ready to negotiate." ___ 10 p.m. The U.S. Air Force has tested a missile on the same day that North Korea is suspected of having launched two short-range missiles. Story continues The Air Force says it launched a Minuteman 3 intercontinental ballistic missile on Thursday from Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. It says the launch was part of regularly scheduled tests of ICBMs to ensure they are ready for potential combat. It said the test was unrelated to any world events. It was the second such test in a little over a week. The Air Force normally does four or five such tests each year. The ICBM test launches are planned months in advance. The Air Force moved a Minuteman 3 missile from a launch silo controlled by the 90th Missile Wing at F.E. Warren Air Force Base in Wyoming to the launch site at Vandenberg. North Korea's launch was its second in five days and a possible warning that nuclear disarmament talks with Washington could be in danger. ___ 7:10 p.m. South Korea's military says North Korea has fired two suspected short-range missiles. South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff earlier said North Korea fired at least one projectile from its western province on Thursday afternoon. The Joint Chiefs of Staff said later that the North fired what appeared to be two short-range missiles. It says they flew 420 kilometers (260 miles) and 270 kilometers (167 miles), respectively. It says South Korean and U.S. authorities are trying to find out more details about the launches. ___ 6:30 p.m. The Japanese Defense Ministry says none of the projectiles fired by North Korea has reached anywhere near the Japanese coastline. The ministry says "at present, we are not aware of any situation that would pose an immediate threat to Japan's national security." Japan apparently has downplayed its reaction to North Korea's test firing of missiles on Saturday and Thursday as Prime Minister Shinzo Abe desperately seeks to secure a summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. South Korea's military says North Korea has fired at least one unidentified projectile from its western area. It's the second such launch in the last five days. ____ 5 p.m. South Korea's military says North Korea has fired at least one unidentified projectile from its western area. It's the second such launch in the last five days. The South's Joint Chiefs of Staff had no other immediate details of the Thursday afternoon launch. North Korea and the United States are currently deadlocked in diplomacy meant to rid the North of its nuclear arsenal. The launch came hours after the North through its state media described its earlier firing of rocket artillery and an apparent short-range ballistic missile on Saturday as a regular and defensive military exercise and ridiculed South Korea for criticizing the launches. HIGHLANDS RANCH, Colo. (AP) The Latest on the shooting at a Colorado school that killed one student and injured eight (all times local): 12:50 p.m. A law enforcement official says a security guard fired his gun during this week's shooting at a charter school in a Denver suburb. The official spoke on condition of anonymity Thursday because the official was not authorized to release the information. The official did not say whether the guard shot anybody at STEM School Highlands Ranch on Tuesday. Robert Burk, an attorney for the guard, declined to confirm reports by news organizations that authorities are investigating whether the guard fired at a sheriff's deputy and wounded a student. Burk says the guard, whom he did not name, took decisive action that helped saved lives. Boss Level High Protection owner Grant Whitus has said his employee confronted and apprehended one of the two suspects in the shooting that killed one student and wounded eight others. ___ Associated Press writer P. Solomon Banda contributed to this report. ___ 10:20 a.m. The Brady gun control group that organized a vigil for victims and survivors of the Colorado school shooting that killed a student and injured eight has issued a statement detailing its apology for the event that was criticized as politicizing the tragedy. The statement says the group is "is deeply sorry any part of this vigil did not provide the support, caring and sense of community we sought to foster and facilitate." It adds that the group knows this "is so crucial to communities who suffer the trauma of gun violence." Wednesday night's vigil in a packed high school gym included speeches by presidential hopeful Sen. Michael Bennet and U.S. Rep. Jason Crow, both Democrats. Some students walked out in protest. Students were eventually allowed to speak. The suspects in Tuesday's shooting have been identified by authorities as 18-year-old Devon Erickson and a 16-year-old who prosecutors identified as Maya McKinney but whose attorney said uses male pronouns and the name Alec. Story continues ___ 9 a.m. Organizers of a vigil for victims and survivors of the Colorado school shooting that killed a student and injured eight are apologizing after students complained the event politicized the tragedy and ignored them. Wednesday night's vigil was organized by the student arm of the Brady gun control group and included speeches by presidential hopeful Sen. Michael Bennet and U.S. Rep. Jason Crow, both Democrats. At one point, someone shouted that students should be allowed to speak and organizers talked with students in a hallway about how to include them. Some students chanted and others railed against the media and called for remembering Kendrick Castillo, the student killed while trying to stop one of the gunman Tuesday. Students eventually were invited to speak. Teacher Emily Muellenberg told Colorado Public Radio that organizers had reached out to students before the event but didn't hear back. ___ 12 a.m. The three students who disarmed a gunman in a Colorado school shooting leapt their desks without a word and with no thought for their own safety when they spotted the gun. One of the three recounted how they slammed the teenager against the wall and struggled with him when shots rang out. Kendrick Castillo led the charge but slumped to the ground. His close friend Brendan Bial wrestled the gun away and called to Castillo. Bialy told reporters there was no response as he recalled what happened at STEM School Highlands Ranch. Bialy said his friend Kendrick "went out as a hero." Authorities said the actions of Castillo, Bialy and Joshua Jones minimized bloodshed from Tuesday's attack at the school south of Denver that wounded eight students and killed the 18-year-old Castillo. The attackers were identified as 18-year-old Devon Erickson and a 16-year-old who prosecutors identified as Maya McKinney but whose attorney said uses male pronouns and the name Alec. WASHINGTON Talk of possible U.S. military action in Venezuela is prompting bipartisan concern in Congress, where Democrats and Republicans alike cautioned against a rush toward intervention amid escalating rhetoric from Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and National Security Adviser John Bolton. After the U.S.-backed opposition leader Juan Guaido failed last week to oust Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, Pompeo said U.S. military action is possible. He and Bolton met last Friday with Acting Defense Secretary Patrick Shanahan to discuss possible options. But U.S. intervention would be highly controversial and could spark a political backlash, in the United States and across the hemisphere. Maduro has said any U.S. military invasion would be worse" than Vietnam and many lawmakers, as well as Latin America experts, agree it could lead to a quagmire. "What would our militarys mission be in Venezuela? said Sen. Todd Young, an Indiana Republican, who sits on the Foreign Relations Committee. Would the administration push for our military to conduct regime change? The Marine Corps veteran has called for immediate congressional hearings on the issue and said he wants several threshold questions answered by President Donald Trump's top advisers. Oftentimes military commitments destabilize situations as opposed to improving them, Young told USA TODAY in an interview. On Thursday, Trump denied a Washington Post report he is frustrated with Bolton's hard-line position on Venezuela and that Bolton was pushing him into a war he didn't want. Johns very good. He has strong views on things which is okay," Trump told reporters on Thursday. "Im the one who tempers him ... I have John Bolton and I have people who are a little more dovish than him. Any move by the Trump administration to send American forces to Venezuela would require congressional authorization, Young and other lawmakers said. That, in turn, would require Pompeo and others to make a compelling case to Congress and the American public that such a move is warranted. Story continues And there seems to be little political appetite among lawmakers for approval of such a move. Venezuela is not a minor military engagement by any stretch of the imagination, Sen. Bob Menendez, D-N.J., told USA TODAY. Even some hawkish Republicans who have championed a U.S. military role in Venezuela seemed to shy away from a direct U.S. confrontation with Maduros military forces when pressed on the matter. Its too early, Sen. Lindsey Graham, a South Carolina Republican, said Tuesday. Just last week, Graham suggested the U.S. should deploy an aircraft carrier to Venezuela and seemed to criticize the Trump administration for putting too much focus on sanctions and diplomacy. Cuba, Russia send troops to prop Maduro up in Venezuela.while we talk/sanction. Where is our aircraft carrier? Graham tweeted on Friday. This week, however, Graham seemed to back down. Military options should be on the table, he said on Tuesday, but we should really be putting a lot of pressure on Cuba right now. Cuba is a close ally of the Maduro regime. The Trump administration has accused the Cuban government of using its security and intelligence forces to help keep Maduro in power. Senate Foreign Relations Committee member Sen. Todd Young (R-IN) questions witnesses during a committee hearing about Libya in the Dirksen Senate Office Building on Capitol Hill April 25, 2017 in Washington, DC. Senators heard testimony from country specialists about the thousands of small and large factions that splinter politics and security today in Libya. Other Republicans said U.S. military involvement in Venezuela, despite a strong desire to see Maduro step down, would only play into Maduro's hands. "Direct U.S. military involvement risks allowing Maduro to externalize conflict, scapegoat his failures, and delegitimize the organic desire of Venezuelans to choose their own brighter destiny," Rep. Matt Gaetz, a Florida Republican who sits on the House Armed Services Committee, said in an April 30th statement. "I trust and hope that the Trump Administration will continue to skillfully advance the cause of freedom in Latin America and throughout the world." Young said that as much as he would like to see Maduro ousted, he's not sure if U.S. military involvement is the right way to achieve that goal. We have a brutal socialist regime in Venezuela that has caused unspeakable suffering among the Venezuelan populace, Young said. But hes worried about the possible consequences of U.S. military involvement in Venezuela and unsettled by the escalating rhetoric from top Trump administration officials. The first stepis calling on the administration to explain their thinking for threatening military action in the press, said Young, who sits on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. If hostilities are imminent, then we need to know why. Young said the committee's GOP chairman, Sen. James Risch of Idaho, shares his concerns and has promised to work on his request for hearings, although those might be closed-door sessions. After Friday's meeting with Pompeo and Bolton, Pentagon chief Shanahan did not directly answer a reporter's question about whether Venezuela poses a national security threat to the United States that would justify U.S. military intervention. "Depends on the conditions," he responded. But Shanahan noted that Russia and other American foes have a presence in Venezuela, suggesting a broader geopolitical threat to the U.S. He also declined to discuss specific military plans but said: We have a comprehensive set of options tailored to certain conditions. If lawmakers are wary, its no wonder. Several Venezuela experts have said U.S. military intervention would be complicated at best, and disastrous at worst comparable to the bloody, years-long conflicts in Iraq and Syria. It would not be quick or easy, Rebecca Bill Chavez, a former assistant secretary of defense for Western Hemisphere Affairs, told the House Foreign Affairs Committee in March. It could require as many as 150,000 American troops over a long period of time under conditions of asymmetrical warfare, she said. She and others noted that U.S. military personnel would confront not only Venezuelan military officials loyal to Maduro but also armed gangs in the country, known as colectivos, and other malevolent forces in the country. Venezuela is one of the most dangerous countries in the world a fact highlighted by Vice President Mike Pence in a speech at the State Department on Tuesday. Vicious gangs and the colectivos have turned the streets into war zones, Pence said. Venezuela now has the highest murder rate in the world, with more than 70 homicides every day. Shannon ONeil, a senior fellow for Latin America Studies at Council on Foreign Relations, said the vast size and chaotic state of Venezuela make U.S. military intervention "in many ways unrealistic. This is a country thats twice the size of Iraq in terms of its geography and as complicated, if not more so, in terms of its existing infrastructure and political dynamics, O'Neil said during a briefing on Venezuela earlier this year. Any force that would go in there to try to remove this government, you would also be embarking on a very vast nation-state building exercise that would last potentially for years, she said. Sen. Rick Scott, a Florida Republican who has called for a U.S. military role in Venezuela, said the Trump administration should start by sending troops to the country on a humanitarian mission. Theres genocide going in Venezuela so weve got to do everything we can to stop it, he said, referring to the massive food and medicine shortages that have prompted widespread hunger and death in the country. But Scott demurred when asked what kind of military commitment that would require from the U.S., saying that was up to the Defense Department to determine. Asked about the complications of a military intervention, Scott said Venezuela is already in a dire situation comparable to Syria. Were going to have a Syria here if we dont get rid of Maduro, he said. It cant be worse than this. Contributing: Christal Hayes and Tom Vanden Brook Read even more: Download the USA TODAY app This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: 'We need to know why': Lawmakers wary as Trump aides weigh military options for Venezuela More than 1.9 million unhappy customers who purchased or leased a Ford Focus or Fiesta say the company lied to unload cars with faulty transmissions on unsuspecting buyers and then blamed the drivers for problems they experienced. As a result, Ford Motor Co. faces a potential $4 billion liability, lawyer Ryan Wu said last month during a U.S. Court of Appeals hearing during heated discussion with judges. He was trying to convince a panel of appellate judges in Pasadena, California, on April 8 to leave in place a $35 million settlement his law firm negotiated to resolve a class-action lawsuit against Ford. At the hearing, Michael Kirkpatrick of Public Citizen, a nonprofit Washington, D.C.-based consumer group handling the case for free, argued that the proposed settlement provided a sweet deal for Ford and a raw deal for its customers. Ford customers claim in legal filings their 2012-16 Focus and 2011-16 Fiesta sedans were built with dual-clutch transmissions prone to shuddering, slipping, bucking, jerking, hesitation while changing gears, premature internal wear, delays in downshifting and, in some cases, sudden or delayed acceleration. More: SUVs are hot sellers and that means you'll find sweet deals on sedans More: Ford under criminal investigation by the US government over emissions certification In a statement to the Free Press on Wednesday, the company said, "Ford is committed to providing our customers with top-quality vehicles. We continue to deny the allegations in this lawsuit, but rather than continuing with the litigation, Ford entered into a settlement agreement with lawyers representing these plaintiffs. That settlement is fair and appropriate and we look forward to final court approval." Judges are deciding now whether to uphold or toss the settlement. Lawyers involved with the case say a ruling will likely come by December. Judges challenged Wu on whether the deal he negotiated was fair, and if the lower court correctly assessed the value of the settlement. Wu said yes, noting previous courts have upheld the fairness of class-action cases where only 3% of the plaintiffs were were compensated, as he worked to bring closure to a case filed in 2012. Story continues Warning to stockholders Then, less than three weeks after the California hearing, Ford warned shareholders of legal exposure in a Securities and Exchange Commission filing under the subhead, "Consumer Matters." We are currently a defendant in a significant number of litigation matters relating to the performance of vehicles equipped with DPS6 transmissions, said the last item on a 70-page document dated April 25 and signed by Cathy OCallaghan, Ford vice president and controller. We are a defendant in numerous actions in state and federal courts alleging damages based on state and federal consumer protection laws and breach of warranty obligations. Remedies under these statutes may include repurchase, civil penalties, and plaintiffs attorney fees. In some cases, plaintiffs also include an allegation of fraud. Stranded with Mom Kirkpatrick said the timing "would suggest Ford thinks the settlement is going to be vacated. Thats what weve asked the Court of Appeals to do, send it all back down to the district court. Given the way the oral argument went, Fords lawyers anticipate losing the appeal. And they want to get out ahead of this. They have this huge liability they thought they had put to bed through a class-action settlement that was an exceptionally good deal for them. If history is any indication, the situation facing Ford is grim. A California jury awarded Ariel Myers of Los Angeles $550,000 after finding that Ford acted with malice and committed fraud by concealing that the transmission in his 2014 Ford Focus was seriously defective, inducing him to purchase the car, despite a history of massive numbers of transmission failures, according a news release after the April 6, 2018, verdict from the nonprofit Consumers for Auto Reliability and Safety based in Sacramento. Within three days of purchasing his car for $40,007 on July 29, 2014, the transmission began to slip and shudder. Myers went back repeatedly for repairs, but the transmission continued to overheat, slip and make the car dangerous to drive, the news release said at the time. Myers needed the car to get to work and take his mother to dialysis. When the transmission overheated, his mother missed her appointment as they sat on the side of the road for help. When Myers sought a refund, Ford refused. Just before the trial jury was selected, Ford admitted it had violated lemon laws, the consumer advocacy group noted. Ford has appealed the Myers judgment, Kirkpatrick said. But remember that Ford agreed to pay Myers $132,141 on the breach-of-warranty claims before going to trial on the consumer fraud claims. Even if Myers loses on appeal, Ford will have to pay $132,141 plus costs and attorneys fees. Thats just one guy. In addition to the class-action case, an estimated 1,200 individual consumer fraud cases are pending in California, and a "mass action" lawsuit on behalf of 12,300 buyers has been filed in Wayne County Circuit Court by drivers from throughout the United States who declined to join the class action lawsuit. Ruling: 'Unconscionable' conduct While cases simmer in the U.S., Ford has been penalized globally. The company engaged in unconscionable and misleading or deceptive conduct and made false or misleading representations in its response to customer complaints, according to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission. It hit Ford with a $10 million fine (about $7.5 million in U.S. dollars) on April 26, 2018, in response to the companys handling of thousands of complaints between May 2015 and November 2016 one of the largest fines in Australian history handed down under consumer law. The fine in Australia also covered complaints involving Ford EcoSport owners. "In most cases, Ford refused to provide a refund or a no-cost replacement vehicle to consumers, even after vehicles had undergone multiple repairs that had not resolved consumers' complaints," Rod Sims, commission chairman, said at the time. Ford told customers that "shuddering" in the vehicle was the result of the way that buyers had been driving, he noted. 'Overwhelmed' with complaints Ford acknowledged at the time, We took too long to identify the issues and we acknowledge that PowerShift customers did not have complaints handled appropriately. ... We were overwhelmed with the volume of complaints. ... Our processes were inadequate and information provided was either inaccurate or incomplete. We let our customers down and for that we are sorry." Now Ford awaits a ruling on the class-action settlement involving 1.5 million current and 400,000 former owners. One solo plaintiff won more than $130,000. The current settlement provides class members with much, much less. This was a windfall release for Ford," Kirkpatrick told the Free Press. "People would be giving up their claims of very high value. We know Ford has been settling cases for $75,000 right off the bat when people bring their own lawsuits under California consumer protection law." Once Ford is released, theyre no longer bound. This is about fairness. Ford is purchasing a release from liability at a very low price. Most class members will get nothing, and the attorneys make big fees. Wu said in court, "If everyone were to actually submit a claim, it would be $4 billion." What makes this case potentially costly is not the faulty manufacturing but the idea that Ford hid the problem, said multiple lawyers interviewed who are working on the case. This is about deceptive practices," Kirkpatrick said. And these problems actually cant be fixed. Ford kept giving extended warranties. Why isnt that good enough? Because this isnt like having worn out brake pads and replacing the pads. These cars are notorious for transmission problems. Its because Ford lied. Companies get hit with higher penalties in these cases, which is why Ford might offer $75,000 for a $25,000 car, Kirkpatrick said. 20 service visits, no fix The company issued more than 20 technical service bulletins relating to the Focus and Fiesta models, with none of them being a consistently reliable repair, reported Carscoops in 2017. Ford extended the powertrain warranty from five years and 60,000 miles to seven years and 100,000 miles in 2014. Ford never issued a recall or offered to buy back the vehicles, lawyers said. Ford must be held accountable for design and manufacturing defects of the PowerShift transmission that has compromised the safety of the vehicles and cost owners significant loss in vehicle value, reliable transportation and time, Ken Stern, the Novi lawyer representing the 12,300 Focus and Fiesta owners suing Ford in the Wayne County litigation, told Autoweek in 2017. The transmission system, which replaces a traditional automatic transmission, was marketed as having efficient and fast-shifting gears. The mass action claim filed in Michigan in April 2017 seeks to have Ford award damages individually rather than to a single class. Stern declined to be quoted in deference to a protective order in the ongoing case. 2,406 complaints, collisions Through May 6, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration had received 2,406 complaints about the transmissions, which included reports of vehicles lurching into intersections, failing to decelerate or suddenly accelerating, causing collisions and near misses. A snapshot of experiences reported this year with the 2016 Ford Focus: On Feb. 7, an Ionia, Michigan, owner said, While driving 11 miles per hour in first gear, the vehicle vibrated violently. On March 29, a Fayetteville, North Carolina, driver said, While the gear was in reverse, the vehicle accelerated forward instead of in reverse. On April 28, a Naperville, Illinois, owner said the cars transmission wouldnt shift from second to third gear despite being only 3 years old with 55,000 miles. Unsafe? Sorry Ford lost in the first-class action ruling in Thailand in September 2018 for producing vehicles deemed unsafe, substandard and defective," according to the Chiang Rai Times. The automaker released a statement in Thai, the overseas news media noted at the time, that the company respected the courts verdict. We apologise for the inconvenience. These transmission claims against Ford are damning, said Jason Levine, executive director of the Center for Auto Safety based in Washington, D.C. There are some basics that we all expect to not have to worry about with our cars: Do they start? Are they safe? Will it drive as if it was built in the 21st Century and not as if it had a transmission built by the first assembly line conceived of by Henry Ford? Levine told the Free Press. The thousands of complaints by Ford owners about the transmission problems in these vehicles, and a lack of a comprehensive fix being put forth by the manufacturer, speaks volumes about the way Ford treats its customers. Despite the pending litigation, Ford can likely handle anything that unfolds in the courts, industry observers said. When Ford got in trouble with the Pinto, Ford was vilified for knowingly not doing something, said John McElroy, "Autoline After Hours" host. They dont want to pay out if they can avoid it. But would this cripple the company? Absolutely not. They literally budget for this sort of stuff. The $4 billion figure was calculated based on a maximum-allowed cash payment of $2,325 per class action member, not including the payouts for buybacks. This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Lawsuit: Ford hid Focus, Fiesta transmission problems then blamed customers Hughes is on the left (idk who the other guy is). Photo: John Green/San Mateo County Times/Digital First Media via Getty Images Many people have argued that Facebooks concentrated power is dangerous to society at large. Many people have argued that Mark Zuckerbergs concentrated power within Facebooks corporate structure reinforces and exacerbates those dangers. In response to growing concerns about Facebook, many people have argued that the company should be broken up by the government, an enforcement of antitrust law already on the books. But what the hell do those people know? They dont know Mark Zuckerberg and they didnt help build Facebook. The people calling for Facebooks punishment are all jealous biters who hate seeing other people succeed. Except for Chris Hughes, a Facebook co-founder who called for the companys breakup in a lengthy op-ed in the New York Times this week. (Hughes is doing an elaborate PR rollout for this call to action. His op-ed is accompanied by a glamorous headshot and hes also sitting for interviews with various media outlets.) Hughess op-ed runs through the ideas for keeping Facebook accountable, mainly by spinning off Instagram and WhatsApp into standalone businesses that compete against Facebook, and by creating comprehensive government regulations for how social media companies handle privacy concerns and speech. The thing that makes this sort of argument slightly more forceful than similar arguments from others is Hughess deep understanding of Facebooks early ambition he developed many of the companys early products, including the News Feed, but has not worked there in more than a decade and his understanding of Mark Zuckerberg as a person. Anecdotes throughout the piece paint a picture showing that even before Facebooks success, Zuckerberg was driven and reluctant to take orders from anyone. Hughes writes: I dont blame Mark for his quest for domination. He has demonstrated nothing more nefarious than the virtuous hustle of a talented entrepreneur. Yet he has created a leviathan that crowds out entrepreneurship and restricts consumer choice. Its on our government to ensure that we never lose the magic of the invisible hand. In recent months, Mark Zuckerberg has made a big show of requesting government regulations, including in a March op-ed in the Washington Post. Hughes believes these are mostly an effort to ward off the more extreme regulation that some, including presidential candidate and Senator Elizabeth Warren, are demanding. He says: I dont think these proposals were made in bad faith. But I do think theyre an attempt to head off the argument that regulators need to go further and break up the company. Facebook isnt afraid of a few more rules. Its afraid of an antitrust case and of the kind of accountability that real government oversight would bring. While proposals for the FTC breaking up Facebook have been floating for a while, Hughes also tries to tackle other parts of Facebooks empire, including threats to privacy. He endorses the idea of a landmark privacy bill that should specify exactly what control Americans have over their digital information [and] require clearer disclosure to users. And platforms should have basic interoperability: One of the things Cambridge Analytica demonstrated was that even if users were frustrated with Facebook, there was no place where they could port their data. Lastly, Hughes touches the third rail of the social-media track, free speech, and endorses the idea of further legal guidelines for social-media platforms. This idea may seem un-American we would never stand for a government agency censoring speech. But we already have limits on yelling fire in a crowded theater, child pornography, speech intended to provoke violence and false statements to manipulate stock prices. We will have to create similar standards that tech companies can use. These standards should of course be subject to the review of the courts, just as any other limits on speech are. But there is no constitutional right to harass others or live-stream violence. (For what its worth, those stated carveouts to the law that shields platforms from liability are the guidelines tech companies already use, so hes just proposing more carveouts? And those carveouts almost exclusively hurt the small competitors that Hughes wants to cultivate I guess my point is: its complicated!) Hughess op-ed is far from a radical departure from what has already been said regarding Facebook. But his call to action is one of the most forceful, even as Facebook-made billionaires like WhatsApp founder Brian Acton and early advisors like Roger McNamee have called on users to abandon Zuckerbergs company. If you think of Hughes as a combination of expert testimony and character witness, it becomes tough to argue with his conclusions. 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. One of the great mysteries in American literary history is what happened to Nelle Harper Lee after July 11, 1960, when To Kill a Mockingbird was published. While her novel sold millions of copies, Atticus became a household name and Gregory Peck collected an Oscar for his performance in the film adaptation, Lee virtually disappeared. And she never completed another book. Debut author Casey Cep sets off to investigate Lees life after Mockingbird in her vivid book Furious Hours, which travels the highways and byways of rural Alabama to tell the story of the Rev. Willie Maxwell, progressive lawyer Tom Radney and the book that Lee triedand failedto write about them. Maxwell was a country preacher who was accused in the 1970s of murdering five of his family membersthree of whom were found dead by the side of the road, with no clear cause of death. As Maxwells relatives turned up dead, he managed to avoid conviction, dodging the police and collecting tens of thousands of dollars in life insurance from policies he had taken out on the victims. He was ably defended by his attorney Radney, whom Cep depicts as the ideal country lawyer, but the spree ended when he was shot at the funeral of his stepdaughterone of his alleged victims. Radney took up his killer as a client, who was acquitted on an insanity defense, and Lee began documenting this swirl of voodoo (which Maxwell was accused of practicing), postcivil rights tensions and the murder investigations. Lee, who was suffering from a serious case of writers block, had decided that in Maxwell and Radney she had found her next book. It wont spoil anything to say that Lee likely never finished it (Cep isnt certain), despite her investing years in toiling over first a nonfiction account and then a novel. But from that void comes a great gift: Ceps book is a marvel. In elegant prose, she gives us the fullest story yet of Lees post-Mockingbird life in New Yorkboozy, unproductive, modest despite her means, yet full of books and theaterand her quest in Alabama, where she grew close to Radney and his family, to tell the Maxwell story. Ceps is an account emotionally attuned to the toll that great writing takes, and shows that sometimes one perfect book is all we can ask for, even while we wish for another. Moscow (AFP) - When kindergarten staff told Lyubov Sobol her five-year-old daughter needed to come in wearing a miniature military uniform ahead of Russia's World War II Victory Day, she was shocked and angry. But dressing children up in the attire for May 9, the day Russia commemorates Soviet victory over the Nazis, is far from an unusual practice in the country. The trend has grown over President Vladimir Putin's two decades in power, as officials highlight the conflict to boost patriotic sentiment. Child-sized khaki tunics, jaunty caps with a red star and even wooden replica weapons are widely on sale and many youngsters wear such outfits to Victory Day events across Russia. While popular, such outfits have also sparked controversy among parents and professionals. "As far as I know, the initiative came from above," Sobol told AFP of the kindergarten's request. "I don't agree with it," she said, criticising what she called "forcing military subject matter on children." "This militarised masquerade is coming to every corner of Russia," she said, adding that when she was at school there was no such custom. Sobol, a lawyer who works with opposition leader Alexei Navalny, persuaded the state kindergarten to cancel the plans for children to wear military gear, with the support of other parents. "Kindergartens should teach children to treat people well," she said. "Not how to hold a machine gun." In response, conservative pro-Kremlin media accused her of a lack of patriotism, but she insisted she acted to protect "the rights and interests of people living in our country." Several other Moscow schools and kindergartens this year have asked children to wear retro uniforms for celebratory concerts and photoshoots, parents told AFP. Others were instructed to bring military-themed ribbons or soldiers' caps. A spokeswoman for the Moscow education department said by phone that the choice of clothing was "most likely" an individual decision by schools. Story continues However the department did not respond to an official request for comment. - 'Prettifying war' - Several cities including Pyatigorsk in the Russian Caucasus have held special military parades this year with kindergarten-age children wearing retro uniforms. Many families taking part in Thursday's "Immortal Regiment" marches holding pictures of loved ones who fought in the war brought along children in war uniforms. But some psychologists spoke out against a practice they says glorifies war and glosses over the realities. "This is romanticising and prettifying the most terrible thing in our world -- war," wrote Saint Petersburg-based child psychologist Yelena Kuznetsova on Facebook in a widely shared post. "Children shouldn't wear military uniform," she said. "You should buy children clothes that are about life, not death." Another child psychologist Irina Obukhova however told Kommersant daily that it was "essential" for children to take part in such events and "identify with their ancestors." A poll by the liberal Echo of Moscow radio station found 81 percent of Muscovites thought it was "wrong" for children to wear military uniform while 17 percent said this was "OK." A set of child-size World War II uniform does not come cheap. At Admiral, a company based in the town of Shchelkovo outside Moscow, a complete Russian-made outfit for children aged 3 to 15 costs 3,500 rubles ($54) according to company head Yevgeny Grankin. "It's popular, more and more so in recent times," he said. "I think people are just proud of the past, of victory." By Elizabeth Piper CHATHAM, England (Reuters) - Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn urged Britain on Thursday to look beyond Brexit and vote for his opposition party's fight against austerity at this month's European election, a poll he blamed on the government's "complete failure" to leave the European Union. Almost three years after Britain voted to leave, parties now have to take part in the May 23 election to the European Parliament, a poll which exposes the deepening chaos of Brexit and offers a new opportunity for voters to punish politicians. With little clarity over how, when and even if Brexit will happen, Labour and the governing Conservatives are braced for a painful election, when smaller parties will try to lure away their supporters with simple pro- and anti-Brexit positions. Launching Labour's campaign, Corbyn, whose party is also deeply divided over how or whether Britain should leave the EU, argued that binary positions on Brexit would do little to heal the country's rifts, something he said was allowing the growth of the far right. But while saying the election should not be seen through the prism of Brexit, he gave little hope that talks with the government on finding a deal to get Prime Minister Theresa May's deal through parliament, were progressing quickly. Instead, he was clear he much preferred an election to a second referendum, risking fuelling anger from several lawmakers in his party who say the only way to break the Brexit impasse is to turn once again to the people to decide. But Corbyn said a second referendum could be the kind of "healing process" the country needed. "It is Labour that wants to bring our country back together," he told dozens of students and supporters at a university in the southeastern county of Kent, parts of which voted to leave the EU at the 2016 referendum. "So whether you voted leave or remain in 2016, I urge you to vote Labour, the party that is determined to bring the many together and take on the entrenched power of the few." NATIONAL ELECTION? It is a message that Corbyn, an instinctive critic of the EU, has long wanted to return to, hoping in vain for months that the chaos over Britain's departure would bring down the government and trigger a national election. May has so far remained in office, refusing on Wednesday to offer her lawmakers a timetable detailing her plans to resign. But Corbyn said a new election could not be far off. "I am looking forward to putting forward (his policies to improve social divisions) in a general election which cannot be that far away." "I am ready for it. Don't worry about that." Corbyn sees his anti-austerity message as a vote winner after it helped Labour's much stronger than expected showing in a 2017 parliamentary election. That result left May to rely on the support of a Northern Irish party to prop up her government. May has never been weaker. Her divorce deal, agreed with the EU in November, has been rejected three times by parliament, her cabinet team of top ministers are at odds over it, and many party supporters are refusing to campaign in the EU elections. But to try to keep her deal alive, May entered into talks with Labour to try to find a way to get the necessary support to have it ratified by parliament. Corbyn was downbeat on the chance of success, despite both parties committing to further talks next week. "The talks we are having with the government have been difficult because ... the government is in some degree of disarray itself," he said. "There will be further meetings coming up. But quite honestly the government has to move its red lines." The two sides have so far been unable to reach any agreement on the future customs arrangements with the EU, with Labour wanting a permanent customs union - something that would enrage many of May's Conservative Brexit supporters. With little sign of an end to the standoff, Corbyn is under increasing pressure to throw his support behind a second referendum, or confirmatory vote, on any Brexit deal, but he has so far failed to move. He again said on Thursday that such a vote would be needed only to stop a "bad" Conservative Brexit or an attempt to leave the bloc without an agreement. (Reporting by Elizabeth Piper; Editing by Frances Kerry and Alison Williams) Consumer Reports has no financial relationship with advertisers on this site. Consumer Reports has no financial relationship with advertisers on this site. A dead frog in a bottle of purified bottled water might seem pretty memorable. But not, apparently, to the New Jersey Department of Health. Though the states 2012 annual report on bottled water mentions a consumer complaint about the incident, the agency has no record of its probe into the potential unusual contamination, according to the states response to a public records request recently filed by Consumer Reports. The incident isnt just bizarreit also underscores how little information is readily available to consumers interested in the quality of their bottled water, and how hard it can be for them to get it. Unlike tap water, there is no public repository of information for consumers to look up the quality of their favorite bottled water brand and see whether it is free of contaminants. The Food and Drug Administration doesnt require companies to submit test reports each year for review, and instead asks only that results be made available during inspections, which typically happen every year or two. And while several states receive test results each year as part of the permitting process bottlers go through to sell their product, those are often available only through public records requests. The International Bottled Water Association, the industrys main lobby group, says it supports companies voluntarily providing information about bottled water quality to consumers who ask for it. Consumers who want to know more about what is in their bottled water product should contact the manufacturer and request a water quality report, says IBWA spokesperson Sabrina Hicks. If a bottled water company does not satisfy a consumers request for more information, that consumer can and should choose another brand. However, in CRs quest to track down information about the quality of the nations bottled water, we encountered a number of roadblocks and red flags, even in states such as New Jersey and California, which have some of the most robust bottled-water quality regulations in the country and were a primary focus of our research into obtaining info on bottled water quality. Here are six notable ones: Story continues 1. California says it throws out its mandatory bottle water reports. California requires bottled water makers to submit quality reports every year to the state, and to provide those reports upon request to consumers. So we asked the states health department for copies of those reportsbut the agency said it disposes of them after determining that companies are in compliance with state rules. A California spokesperson told us that to get the reports we would need to contact the companies directly. 2. Regulators missed violations that CR found. After CR tracked down many of those bottled water reports directly from companies, we found several violations California regulators apparently missed. For example, California law requires that companies clearly note on their reports when their product has arsenic levels between 5 and 10 parts per billion. But we found one bottler, Crystal Creamery, that failed to include that alert though its water had arsenic levels in that range. (The company no longer sells bottled water.) And when we asked about results from another company, Niagara Bottling, showing its spring water with 8 ppb of arsenic, regulators told us they contacted the company and found that was a typo. Niagara then filed a corrected report, showing it had about 1 pbb of arsenic. A spokesperson for the California DOH said it appreciates you bringing this to our attention. 3. New Jersey regulators submitted identical copies of its annual water reports two years in a rowand no one seemed to notice until CR asked. New Jersey requires its Department of Health to submit an annual report on the quality of bottled water sold in the state. But when CR asked for all available annual reports, we found that the 2014 report was identical to the 2013 report, with only the dates on the cover changed. Apparently no one had noticed until CR asked. When the agency ultimately reproduced the proper report, it showed, among other things, that state testing had found one brand of waterPenafiel, owned by Keurig Dr Pepperwith arsenic levels above the federal cutoff of 10 ppb, and an importer was required to destroy the product as a result. (After CR tested several samples of that water and confirmed that it still had elevated levels, the company announced on April 15 that it was temporarily shutting down production to correct the problem; the FDA said an investigation had been launched.) 4. Your water might not be what it seems. The labeling of bottled waters is a constant source of confusion. The government has established some Standards of Identity for bottled water, essentially defining terms such as spring water and purified water. Nestle is facing litigation over the marketing of its Poland Spring brand as spring water, with the lawsuit contending it doesnt contain a single drop of genuine spring water. (Nestle denies the claims and says it is appealing the ruling.) We found other examples that could give consumers pause, as well. For example, in 2017 California regulators found that a small store in Rialto, Calif., claiming to sell alkaline bottled water was instead simply refilling used plastic water bottles with water from the local municipal supply, according to public records obtained from Californias health department. The bottles displayed for sale, they added, were not properly sealed. And there is no legal standard of identity for alkaline water, anyway, according to the FDA. 5. There is no comprehensive list of bottled water makers. Even the Beverage Marketing Corporation, a go-to source for info on the industry, doesnt maintain a current list of bottled water makers in the U.S. CR was ultimately able to identify 237 brands consumers may have access to today but had to piece that information together from multiple state regulators and other public sources, and we are still unsure whether the list is complete. Of those 237, CR was able to obtain bottled water quality test reports from only 12653 percentby either visiting the brands website or contacting the manufacturer directly. The remaining bottlers didnt responded to our queries or failed to provide us with a report. 6. The industry website meant to house bottled water reports is full of broken links. The IBWA website does include a page that lists all brands that belong to the association, and links to many of the brands websites and quality reports. But 63 of the 108 links to bottled water reports58 percentdidnt lead to the appropriate information or were broken as of April 23, 2019. For brand websites, 28 of 164 linksabout 17 percentdidnt lead to the correct site or were broken. Even popular brands such as Evian and Niagara Bottling had broken links to their websites, bottled water quality reports, or both. When asked about this, Jill Culora, vice president of communications at the IBWA, said the association was in the process of moving its old site to a new platform and updating the design. We are aware that the current website has a few broken links and some outdated information, and we are working to fix these problems, Culora said. This effort has been made more complicated because we switched website vendors. Thank you for bringing this particular issue to our attention. We hope to have our new website up and running as soon as possible. With information about bottled water quality so inconsistent, whats a consumer to do? You can try contacting a company directly for its bottled water report, either by going to its website or calling its phone number; some list that on the bottles. But even that is hit or miss. So as a stopgap, CR is posting all the bottled water reports we have gathered so far. More from Consumer Reports: Top pick tires for 2016 Best used cars for $25,000 and less 7 best mattresses for couples Consumer Reports is an independent, nonprofit organization that works side by side with consumers to create a fairer, safer, and healthier world. CR does not endorse products or services, and does not accept advertising. Copyright 2019, Consumer Reports, Inc. Photo: Tim Goedhart/Unsplash Want to up your game when it comes to health and wellness? From a roundtable health discussion to an immersive sound bath to a mind-focused variety show, there's plenty to do when it comes to holistic activities to enrich your week. Read on for a rundown. Hoodline offers data-driven analysis of local happenings and trends across cities. Links included in this article may earn Hoodline a commission on clicks and transactions. Pediatric Startup Day at CHLA From the event description: Please join the Children's Hospital Los Angeles Innovation Studio for an exclusive roundtable discussion with key innovation leaders from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. You will get a chance to discuss key topics related to innovation in pediatrics, as well as mingle with invited guests from HHS. When: Thursday, May 9, 6-8 p.m. Where: Children's Hospital Los Angeles, 4650 Sunset Blvd. Price: Free Click here for more details, and to get your tickets Akashic Sound Bath at the Wisdome Immersive Art Park From the event description: Enjoy a special Sound Bath with a live mantra performance, breath work and 360 visual projections as you relax and recharge your mind and body. When: Thursday, May 9, 7-9 p.m. Where: Wisdome Immersive Art Park, 1147 Palmetto St. Price: $30 (Pre-Sales); $40 (Last Minute) Click here for more details, and to get your tickets The Shine returns to DTLA From the event description: The Shine is a mindfully-curated variety show currently scheduled in Los Angeles, New York and London. This alcohol-free event features meditation, music from local bands, inspiring short films, grassroots philanthropy, delicious food and storytelling. When: Saturday, May 11, 7-10 p.m. Where: Cross Campus DTLA, 800 Wilshire Blvd., #200 Price: $30 Click here for more details, and to get your tickets This story was created automatically using local event data, then reviewed by an editor. Click here for more about what we're doing. Got thoughts? Go here to share your feedback. Last night, fashion insiders made their way to New York's John F. Kennedy Airport, en route not to Paris, London, or Milan but a destination a bit more domestic. In fact, they never left the tarmac. Louis Vuitton staged its 2020 Cruise runway inside the spread-winged 1962 TWA Flight Center, a former terminal designed by late architect Eero Saarinen that has been meticulously restored and re-envisioned as a public lobby for a new hotel by firms Beyer Blinder Belle and Lubrano Ciavarra Architects. The show was the first event to grace the newly restored space, which opens to the public on May 15. As models walked the classic Chili Pepper Red carpet and past the heart-shaped sunken lounge with penny-tile benches, Louis Vuitton invitees got a sneak peek at one of the year's most highly anticipated projects. Photo: Courtesy of Louis Vuitton The brand's artistic director, Nicolas Ghesqui``ere, collaborated with artist Es Devlin to reinvent the iconically stark (aside from its poppy-colored carpeting and matching seating) structure as a lush, plant-filled oasis. Models strutted the indoor bridge, stairs, and ramps in looks from the new collection, which riffed on a foreigner's vision of New York City: Art Deco architectural details, classic skyline images, and Wall Street suiting silhouettes were designed in colors both punchy and serious. Pots of bamboo sprouted from the sidelines, while ivy clung to railings. All the plants used for the show will be donated or composted, assures the brand. Photo: Courtesy of Louis Vuitton Louis Vuitton's 2019 Cruise show was hosted at the Fondation Maeght in Saint-Paul-de-Vence, France, a 1964 modern art museum designed by the late Spanish architect Josep Lluis Sert. It seems that Ghesqui``ere has a pernchant for midcentury-modern venues. "I was lucky enough to have landed at the TWA Flight Center in the late '90s; it was something I could never forget," he explains of the inspiration behind showing his latest fashion designs for the house in the architectural icon. Though the terminal closed in 2001 and has sat empty at the center of JetBlue's hub since then, he believes the TWA Flight center is a "sanctuary" that, thanks to its renovation and reinvention, will "enchant anew." What's exciting about the project, and inspiration for the collection, he sums up, is its imminent rediscovery: It's "an uncommon place that yet is a part of American heritage." Originally Appeared on Architectural Digest By Gabriela Baczynska and Luiza Ilie SIBIU, Romania (Reuters) - The European Union must focus on climate, security and growth after continent-wide elections in two weeks, or fall, French President Emmanuel Macron said on Thursday as its leaders met in Romania to chart the way forward following Brexit. The leaders of all members except Britain meet on Europe Day in the town of Sibiu, which has German and Hungarian roots, 15 years after the EU's expansion east finally consigned to history the Iron Curtain that had divided Europe since World War Two. With European Parliament elections set for May 23-26, they will hammer home their goal of staying united despite the Brexit damage, as well as having a first go at assigning the bloc's most powerful jobs later this year. "In 15 days, some 400 million Europeans will choose between a project...to build Europe further or a project to destroy, deconstruct Europe and return to nationalism," Macron said on arriving to the informal talks among the 27 leaders. "We need to move faster now and with more determination on European renaissance," he told reporters. "Climate, protection of borders and a model of growth, a social model...is what I really want for the coming years." France and seven other EU countries proposed getting to "net-zero greenhouse gas emissions" by 2050 for the Sibiu discussion, which is rich in symbolism but expected to produce no concrete decisions. That partly reflects how troubled the times are for the EU. Divided over issues ranging from migration to democratic standards, the EU is grappling with Brexit and a wave of populism, and faces external challenges from China to Russia to the United States. It is also lagging behind on issues from climate change to cyber security. But the 27 leaders signed off on a declaration promising to "defend one Europe", "stay united, through thick and thin" and "always look for joint solutions" in the next political cycle until 2024. Story continues TOP JOBS UP FOR GRABS More immediate consequences could come from informal discussions on appointing new people to the EU's most powerful roles at the helm of the European Council, which brings together national leaders, the executive European Commission, the European Parliament, the European Central Bank and the joint diplomatic service. All five posts are up for grabs later this year and the outgoing European Parliament has already named its picks for the Commission job including a conservative German, Manfred Weber, and a Dutch socialist, Frans Timmermans. The national leaders, however, want to keep firm control of the process where party politics, geographies, policy priorities as well as the candidates' personal profiles all play a role. Agreeing the choice took three summits and three summer months of horse-trading the last time round and the Sibiu summit chairman Donald Tusk will propose finishing it in two goes now. Hungary's eurosceptic Prime Minister Viktor Orban as well as Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras were among those speaking against Weber. The leaders of Luxembourg and Lithuania opposed the idea of following the parliament's picks. While desirable for smooth future cooperation, no formal unanimity is required. Orban and Britain's former Prime Minister David Cameron opposed the nomination of the current head of the Commission, Jean-Claude Juncker, in 2014. Other names in the hat include Brexit negotiator Frenchman Michel Barnier, or Margrethe Vestager, Denmark's current commissioner who imposed hefty fines on global tech giants Google and Apple. Tusk wants to convene another summit in Brussels on May 28, two days after the European Parliament vote to let the national leaders discuss the results and agree on their next steps. (Reporting by Luiza Ilie, Gabriela Baczynska, Andreas Rinke in Sibiu, Jan Strupczewski and Philip Blenkinsop in Brussels, Writing by Gabriela Baczynska, Editing by Hugh Lawson and Angus MacSwan) PARIS, May 9 (Reuters) - A political novice handpicked by President Emmanuel Macron to lead his European election campaign acknowledged on Thursday making a series of blunders early in a faltering campaign race in which the far-right is expected to perform strongly. Nathalie Loiseau's missteps have unsettled the president's camp barely three weeks before the European Parliament vote, which Macron sees as crucial for France's influence in Europe. Loiseau first denied and then played down a report that she had once joined far-right activists on a student union ticket. She also said the elite ENA administrative school had received her "like a gipsy" when she became director because she was not an alumna. Loiseau, who leads Macron's list of candidates under the banner of the Renaissance grouping, told France 2 she had made "clumsy mistakes, certainly." "I am not a political dinosaur, and nor do I claim to be. I have no desire to become a robot, not do I wish that we serve up sterile phrases, formulaic wording and punchlines." Loiseau is a career diplomat and served previously as European affairs minister, where she was described as "Macron's secret weapon" in the Brexit talks. Macron has been hoping to capitalize on her expert knowledge of EU affairs and Catholic background to expand his appeal beyond centrists to more conservative voters. But the 54-year-old has struggled to energize supporters and work the crowds at rallies, unlike her far-right rival Jordan Bardella, the clean-cut 23-year-old heading Marine Le Pen's Rassemblement National (National Rally) list. "They told me the campaign would be hard, and it is," said Loiseau. Some opinion polls show the far-right ahead of Macron's party in the election race. In France, the number of seats a party wins in the European Parliament is determined by proportional representation across a single, national constituency. (Reporting by Simon Carraud, Writing by Richard Lough Editing by Gareth Jones) Malaysia's government faced criticism Thursday for failing to repeal repressive laws and backtracking on promises to improve human rights a year after sweeping to power with a reformist agenda. A ramshackle coalition headed by veteran politician Mahathir Mohamad stormed to a shock election victory on May 9 last year, toppling a corruption-plagued regime that had led the country since independence from Britain in 1957. The Pact of Hope alliance had pledged to do away with repressive laws, such as the colonial-era sedition act which critics say is used to target political dissent, and legislation that allowed for indefinite detention without trial. But the laws are still in place, and authorities have also backed away from a post-election pledge to abolish the death penalty. In addition, the government did a U-turn on a plan to join the International Criminal Court after protests from opposition politicians and a powerful Islamic ruler. "The government should recognise that further delays in ending abusive systems and laws will only mean further harm for the Malaysian people," said Phil Robertson, deputy Asia director for Human Rights Watch. "Prime Minister Mahathir has put his finger up to check prevailing political winds rather than standing up for human rights principles," he added. Mahathir -- who was criticised for being authoritarian during a first stint in office from 1981-2003 -- defended the failure to move faster, suggesting rights reforms did not enjoy broad support in the country. "This is a democratic country, when people have different ideas, we have to respect their ideas," the 93-year-old told a press conference. "It is also their human rights to be opposed to things that they do not like." The government's popularity has been steadily declining since the initial euphoria of the election victory, which toppled prime minister Najib Razak, who was accused of looting state fund 1MDB. Critics say authorities have not acted quickly to improve living standards and they have lost a string of local elections, while a leading pollster showed Mahathir's approval rating dropped to 46 percent in March from 71 percent in August. Drivers and supporters protest against Uber and other ride-hailing companies near the Wall Street Charging Bull on May 8. Photo: Drew Angerer/Getty Images From 7 to 9 a.m. on Wednesday, Uber, Lyft, Juno, and Via drivers went on strike in New York City. Their work stoppage was one of several that took place in major cities around the world. In a press release, members of the New York Taxi Workers Alliance complained of low pay and worsening work conditions. Syed Ali, identified by NYTWA as an Uber driver, said hes striking because the company has broken their promises to drivers time and again. At first, he added, working for Uber had seemed like a promising gig. But then Uber cut our rates and they tried to tell us wed be earning more even though they paid us less. What kind of craziness is that? Theres data to back up the drivers claims. Last year, analysis from the JPMorgan Chase Institute found that drivers for Uber and Lyft make less than half of what they did four years ago. That decline may be attributable in part to a decline in the number of hours drivers work, but Uber has also reduced per-mile pay rates for drivers. As Vox reported in March, the company cut rates by 25 percent in Los Angeles County and certain areas of Orange County; at the time, drivers picketed the companys offices in L.A. Wednesdays global strike shows the mettle of an emerging labor movement. Gig workers are organizing, and as Noah Smith noted at Bloomberg, the latest rideshare strikes coincide with an overall increase in the number of American workers involved in work stoppages. While this certainly isnt the first time drivers have voiced their dissatisfaction, with both Lyft and Uber going public this spring and a vast field of Democratic presidential candidates touting their labor bona fides, the demonstrations are drawing new scrutiny. Lee Carter is intimately familiar with both the drivers grievances and the political issues they raise. A Democratic lawmaker who represents Virginias 50th District in the state House of Delegates, Carter told New York that he began driving for Lyft a month and a half ago to compensate for the low pay. (Members of the House of Delegates receive $17,640 a year for their service in the states part-time legislature.) The important thing to remember about rideshare platforms versus traditional taxis is that ride-sharing platforms really put all of the risk and all of the upfront costs onto the drivers. So its our cars, our gas. Its our insurance, he said. And weve got people that are becoming billionaires overnight off of these ideas that have never driven a single mile with a passenger. And thats because of the hard work of drivers. Carter, who participated in Wednesdays strike, said he usually drives late at night, when hes finished with tasks for his reelection campaign. For a lot of people, its not extra money on the side, he noted. For a lot of people, its their primary job, driving for these rideshare companies. Theyre doing it for 50, 60 hours a week. Some drivers have to work even longer than that to make ends meet. The Guardian reported on Tuesday that some Uber drivers in San Francisco have begun sleeping in their cars; high rents have pushed them out of the city and forced them into longer commutes, and they must keep hectic work schedules to cover costs. To make a living and survive in San Francisco, we have to drive 70 or 80 hours per week, one driver, Sultan Arifi, told the news outlet. Living expenses keep going up, and Uber keeps decreasing how much they pay drivers. When you pull up your app and call an Uber, a full third of the fee you pay goes to Uber and not to your driver, the left-leaning Economic Policy Institute reported in 2018. Once Uber takes its cut, driver compensation averages around $11.77 an hour but from there, the sum continues to shrink. Take out Social Security and Medicare taxes, and EPI found that hourly pay is around $10.87. EPI defined that sum as discretionary income, so its an assumption, really, that drivers do not provide themselves the equivalent of the health and retirement benefits or social insurance programs. If they do, EPI estimates that they earn a real wage of $9.21 an hour. App drivers in New York City make more, but only because the City Council passed a pay raise in 2018. As Vox noted at the time, the law closes a loophole that companies like Uber and Lyft have long been able to exploit. By classifying drivers as contractors instead of employees, companies like Uber and Lyft are able to skirt minimum-wage laws. (Uber has consistently claimed that its drivers are self-employed an argument thats been more successful in the U.S. than it has in Europe.) Despite the pay raise, New York City drivers say theyre still struggling to make a living. Uber and Lyft, meanwhile, are navigating delicate moments in their corporate lifespans. Uber is scheduled to begin publicly trading this week, a move that will make top shareholders very wealthy though, as Reuters previously reported, the rideshare company admitted in its IPO filing that it may never turn a profit. Lyft faces its own struggles. On Tuesday, the New York Times reported that in its first quarter as a publicly traded company, Lyft posted a loss of $1.14 billion for the first quarter, compared with a loss of $234.3 million in the same period a year earlier. The complaints of rideshare drivers highlight both the limitations of Silicon Valleys industrywide conflation of innovation with progress and the high-profile support that Uber, and other rideshare companies, have received from ostensibly liberal sources. HuffPost founder Arianna Huffington joined Ubers board of directors in 2016, and the company is also one of many Silicon Valley corporations to draw high-profile veterans of the Obama administration. David Plouffe briefly worked for Uber. Lyft hired former Obama Transportation secretary Anthony Foxx in 2018, and Valerie Jarrett, an Obama adviser, joined the companys board in 2017. In her memoir, Jarrett said that Lyfts founders are shrewd businessmen who also believe in diversity as a strength. They believe in a social conscience and a commitment to our cities. But Uber and Lyft may not be able to count on such a comfortable relationship with the administration of the next Democratic president whoever they are, whenever they take office. On Wednesday, several Democratic presidential candidates expressed their solidarity with Uber and Lyft drivers. Uber is not a poor company. It paid its top five executives $143 million in compensation last year, including $45 million to its CEO. So why are Uber drivers struggling to put food on the table? I stand with striking Uber and Lyft drivers today. The greed has got to end. pic.twitter.com/4esvwHApjX Bernie Sanders (@BernieSanders) May 8, 2019 .@Uber and @lyft executives are preparing to cash in by taking their companies public, so they're squeezing their drivers and slashing their pay. The drivers are fighting for living wages and better working conditionsand I stand with them.https://t.co/pjWvOCLHYC Elizabeth Warren (@ewarren) March 30, 2019 I support Uber and Lyft drivers in their strike today as they say enough to unfair wages and mistreatment. Let's all demand livable wages, better working conditions and job security for drivers and workers across the country. Cory Booker (@CoryBooker) May 8, 2019 Mother Jones reported on Wednesday that the campaigns of Andrew Yang, Eric Swalwell, Cory Booker, Tim Ryan, and Kristen Gillibrand would not cross picket lines. Uber, Lyft, Juno, and Via may not want to admit their drivers are workers, but the next occupant of the White House might disagree. "Thriving" arrived ahead of the duo's co-headlining North American tour, which kicks off in July. Produced by DJ Camper, the song sees Blige delivering a motivational message about overcoming obstacles. "You see, I'm on a mission (Yeah)/ Ain't no baggage weighin' me down (No)/ Had to get out my feelings (Ooh)/'Cause I'm tired of people seein' me drown," she sings. Last month, Blige announced the collaboration on Instagram -- sharing the track's cover art with a quote from Maya Angelou. "My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to THRIVE, and do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style," the caption reads. "Thriving" isn't the first time that Blige and Nas have joined creative forces. The pair previously collaborated on "Feel Inside" and "Reach Out." This summer, they will also co-headline their North American "The Royalty Tour" -- kicking off July 11 in Florida. Mary J. Blige is currently working on her 14th studio album, which will follow her 2017 "Strength of a Woman." According to W magazine, the record titled "My Life II... There's Something About Me, My Self & Mary Jane (Act 2)" is set for release later this year. In the meantime, listen to "Thriving": https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gVkER1GbxnU&feature=youtu.be The year is 2031, and the US presidential race is wide open after a tumultuous post-Trump volley between Democrats and Republicans. After being elected in 2028, President Bernie Sandersthe nations oldest-ever commander in chiefis preparing to step down to pursue documentary filmmaking. Who will run to replace him? Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez Related stories Everything You Ever Needed to Know About Buying Art in 2019 Sleep Deprived? These Luxury Mattresses Will Have You Counting Sheep in No Time For the First Time, Women's Collective Wealth Will Soon Eclipse Men's The former congresswoman and onetime senator from New York and, most recently, the countrys first female vice president would be the youngest person to serve as president. Predictably, Ocasio-Cortezs ageand hoop earringsare all the media focuses on. Mark Zuckerberg In his third consecutive bid for the highest office, Zuckerberg spends nine months going on listening tours and setting up exploratory committeesbut despite Facebooks effective monopoly on U.S. news, he still cant make it past the primaries. PutinBot 3000 Following the expansion of his misinformation franchise to A.I., Vladimir Putin cuts out the middleman by entering a robot version of himself into the U.S. presidential race. The robot is eventually disqualified, because the minimum age to be president is 35 years and PutinBot 3000 is technically only six months old. Ted Cruz Somehow still around. Paul Ryan Paul Ryan Upon emerging from his Janesville, Wis., basement gym after 14 straight years of weight lifting, a behemoth Ryan comes out of retirement to ask the American people, Arent you just a little bit nostalgic for the good old days? His campaign ends three weeks later. Cory Booker Also, somehow, still around. Chris Pratt With three successful film franchises behind himThe Lego Movie, Guardians of the Galaxy and Volcano Heist (which first premiered in 2023) Pratt decides in 2028 to shift his focus to politics. His ultraconservative platform is extremely well received because, well, look at him. Story continues Ivanka, Eric and Tiffany Trump Due to an unfortunate and embarrassing lack of coordination, three Trump children launch their respective campaigns on the same day. Only Tiffanys lasts more than a few weeks. Meghan Markle Meghan Markle Theres nothing in the Constitution of the United States of America that says the Duchess of Sussex cant be presidentor maybe there is? Whatever, the Constitution can always be amended. It would be worth it to let Markle finally voice her political opinions after 13 years of royal decorum. A Goblin That Emerged from a Pile of Sulfurous Sludge This snarling gremlin, which crawled out of one of the worst-smelling hot springs in Yellowstone National Park, does surprisingly well in the primaries on the newly established swamp ticket and succeeds in pushing all of the parties a little bit further to the right. Ronan Farrow While Farrow is actually quite qualified due to his time working in the State Department, his candidacy teaches us that it is actually possible to be too smart for the office of the presidency. Sign up for Robb Report's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor - PA The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have named their baby Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor, it has been announced. The couple posted the news on their Instagram page, along with a black and white photograph of the newborn baby being introduced to the Queen and Duke of Edinburgh. With the Duchess' mother Doria Ragland by their sides, the duchess held the baby in her arms as the Queen beamed. The announcement appears to confirm that the baby will not take a title. While the bookies had safely predicted the names of Prince George and Princess Charlotte, they were left confounded by the Sussex's selection. In the days after the baby boy's birth, they had settled on Alexander, Arthur, James, Philip and Spencer as the most likely options, with their punters preoccupied with how the couple would honour the late Diana, Princess of Wales. By Wednesday, when the baby was two days old, senior members of the Royal Family including his Uncle William and Auntie Catherine had not yet been made aware of the name. Bookies, who until Monday had overwhelmingly predicted the baby would be a girl, have tipped Alexander and Arthur as the front-runners for a boys name, with a longlist imbued with tradition. Spencer was yesterday inching into the lead at William Hill, after fans adopted it as a favoured choice on social media in honour of Diana, Princess of Wales. The Duke has previously spoken of how important it is to him to include his late mother in the big moments of his life, saying during his engagement interview that incorporating her diamond in to the Duchess ring would make sure that she's with us on this crazy journey together. The controversial actor is set to return to the big screen in the action comedy, "Fatman," playing a rowdy, unorthodox Santa. The movie, directed by the Nelms brothers, is scheduled to start filming in early 2020 in Canada. The rest of the cast is yet to be announced. Summer may not yet be here but Holiday movies are already making the news. "Fatman," for example, is a forthcoming film starring Mel Gibson as an unorthodox Santa Claus. Directed by Ian and Eshom Nelms ("Small Town Crime," "Waffle Sreet," "Lost on Purpose"), based on their original script, the movie tells the story of a rowdy, unorthodox Santa who is fighting the decline of his business. Meanwhile, Billy, a neglected and precocious 12-year-old hires a hitman to kill Santa after receiving a lump of coal in his stocking. "Fatman" will be produced by Rough House, Fortitude and Skywolf. "I am excited to be working with the incredibly talented Nelms Brothers who have written a unique, highly entertaining script," said Nadine de Barros of Fortitude. "Mel is the perfect choice as Kris Kringle like we've never seen him before. I couldn't be more thrilled to watch this darkly comedic Christmas film come to life." "This rowdy Santa tale is a film we've been excited to make for some time and we're thrilled to have equally passionate partners in Rough House and Fortitude who carry the same fire!" added the Nelms brothers. Mel Gibson has several big-screen projects in the pipeline. The "Braveheart" actor is set to join Naomi Watts in the thriller "Boss Level," slated for US release August 16, 2019. He is also due to return behind the camera with a "Passion of Christ" sequel. MEXICO CITY (Reuters) - Mexico's Supreme Court asked the state of Jalisco on Wednesday to grant a new birth certificate to a resident there to reflect the fact the person changed their sex and name, another step toward equal rights in the socially conservative country. "As the Supreme Court has argued in other cases, everyone has the right to define their own sexual and gender identity and it is the state's responsibility to guarantee this decision, which is reflected in the different documents, mainly in the birth certificate," the court said in a statement. The court said the person, who was not identified, could go to the civil registry directly to request the new birth certificate, which is required for an array of legal and bureaucratic procedures in Mexico. In January, the court ruled that same-sex partners have a right to receive the social security benefits of their deceased partner after the Mexican Social Security Institute said this benefit was not afforded to homosexual couples. (Reporting by Anthony Esposito; Editing by Leslie Adler) Photo: Pete Marovich/Getty Images Most weeks, New York Magazine writer-at-large Frank Rich speaks with contributor Alex Carp about the biggest stories in politics and culture. Today, the constitutional crisis brought on by Trumps opposition to Congress, the Trump tax expose, and Michael Cohens dirty work for Jerry Falwell Jr. With the decision to assert executive privilege to keep the unredacted Mueller report away from the House Judiciary Committee, Donald Trump continues to treat Congress, in the words of John Yoo, like theyre the Chinese or a local labor union working on a Trump building. Will his stonewalling work? Lets pause for a moment and reflect on the fact that weve hit a moral bottom where John Yoo is aghast at Trump. John Yoo! For those with short memories, Yoo was the Bush-Cheney deputy assistant attorney general who endorsed uninhibited presidential power grabs and drafted the so-called Bybee memo green-lighting enhanced interrogation techniques (a.k.a. torture). Even Yoo, it turns out, must draw a line when a Republican president waterboards the Constitution. In any case, Trumps stonewalling will work in the sense that the ensuing court battles over the wholesale White House effort to bury the unredacted Mueller report, resist subpoenas, and shut down all testimony by administration officials could drag on for months, if not years. But in a way this may be the least of the countrys problems, as Trump stops at nothing to hold on to power. As Jerry Nadler and Nancy Pelosi have said, we are in a constitutional crisis. But even constitutional crises are relative. The ultimate crisis may arrive, as Pelosi has been warning, when Trump, if defeated, attacks the legitimacy of the 2020 election. If his loss is narrow (and perhaps even if it isnt), the imagination reels at picturing what havoc he and his riled-up base, a third of the country, might sow to extend his rule. A comparable constitutional crisis could also be triggered if the Supreme Court does rule against Trumps wanton invocation of executive privilege before Election Day arrives. Do we really believe that Trump and Bill Barr would obey that ruling? Would they actually release the evidence such a ruling would make public? Richard Nixon seriously considered burning the White House tapes before the Court mandated their release during Watergate. The comparable records of this White House include the copious notes taken by Donald McGahns chief of staff Annie Donaldson, described by the Washington Post as a daily running account of the presidents actions documenting conversations and meetings. Trump is already on record asserting that McGahns notes never existed until needed. Its not beyond him or his attorney general to find a way to ensure that they keep never existing. The easiest break in this stonewall could be accomplished by Robert Mueller. If Trump cant prevent Congress from calling him to testify, testify he must. Alternatively, if Mueller cant testify before Congress, then he must exercise his First Amendment rights and tell what he knows to the public in the forum of his choice. For a public servant who sees himself as a patriot and a tribune of the rule of law, shirking that duty is not an option. Examining ten years of Trumps tax transcripts, the New York Times reports that from 1985 to 1994 Trump was not only a massive business failure, but appears to have lost more money than nearly any other individual American taxpayer during the period. Will their findings put to rest the strangely persistent mythology of Trumps self-made success? No, it wont. Which is not to say that this latest investigative report by the Times is anything less than conclusive and devastating in its exposure of the lies that have abetted Trumps self-portrait as a business genius. But how one wishes this and other exposes like it had appeared in 2016 or before. As I wrote in my piece about Roy Cohn last year, the Times executive editor from 1977 to 1986, Abe Rosenthal, was a social crony of Cohn, Trumps fixer and promoter, and the papers failure to seriously scrutinize Trump during his rise to fame and power was a consequence of that relationship. Its during that period, just before the publication of The Art of the Deal and long preceding both Trumps Apprentice franchise and presidential run, when the myth of Trumps self-made business success was firmly cemented in the public mind. The laxness of the Trump coverage then not just by the Times but by most major news organizations helps account for the strange persistence of that mythology despite all the evidence to the contrary uncovered by the Times, the Post, and other outstanding organs of investigative journalism over the past few years. That said, it is impossible to imagine any information that could be reported about Trump at this point that would cause his hard-core supporters, including the Vichy Republicans in Congress, to abandon him. This includes any facts that may emerge if we see Trump tax returns for the quarter-century following those revealed by this weeks Times article. Trump could stand in the middle of Fifth Avenue and shoot the commissioner of the IRS and hed still be Making America Great Again. In a recorded conversation reported by Reuters, Michael Cohen spoke of helping Jerry Falwell Jr. destroy a bunch of personal photographs in 2015, possibly shedding new light on the reasons for Falwells influential endorsement of Trump. Should the new developments in the Falwell story line force a reconsideration of what we know about Trumps Evangelical support? No further reconsideration is required. To borrow Pete Buttigiegs coinage, Trumps Evangelical supporters long ago swallowed whatever moral, religious, and ethical scruples they had and enlisted as cheerleaders for the porn star presidency. Falwell, who endorsed Trump because he would bring his business acumen to a country so deep in debt, has been a particularly embarrassing example. He praised him for his life of loving and helping others as Jesus taught in the great commandment. (The Times found not a single itemized charitable deduction in Trumps 19851994 tax documents.) Falwell defended the Access Hollywood tape as a possible conspiracy among Establishment Republicans to benefit Paul Ryan. He has compared Trump to Churchill and declared that he cannot be bought. Evangelical voters unwavering support of Trump is historically consistent with their support of preachers who turn out to be either financial scam artists, closet cases, or sexual offenders when they are taking a break from preaching against LGBT civil rights and womens abortion rights. Falwell wraps up all the hypocrisy in one execrable package. His denial of Michael Cohens claim that he helped him and his wife destroy personal photographs is every bit as convincing as Trumps past claims that he knew nothing about Cohens hush payments to Stormy Daniels. And what are we to make of the seemingly synergistic news, broken by the same reporter, Aram Roston, when he was at BuzzFeed News last year, that Falwell and his wife put up $1.8 million to support a business managed by a 21-year-old pool attendant with no business experience whom they had met at the Fontainebleau Hotel in Miami Beach? No doubt another example of loving and helping others as Jesus taught in the great commandment. Amen. Mike Pompeo, the US secretary, asked what the 'Iron Lady' would do to counter China in a speech in London - REUTERS Donald Trumps secretary of state suggested Margaret Thatcher would never have given Huawei access to 5G networks on Wednesday as US-UK policy differences were laid bare during his first official visit to Britain. Mike Pompeo warned that America would only share information on trusted networks as Theresa May considers giving the Chinese technology company restricted access, hinting at potential knock-on impacts for intelligence sharing. Mr Pompeo expressed disapproval over Britains refusal to take back homegrown Isil fighters captured in the battlefield, insisting the move was a key part of defeating Islamic radicalism in the Middle East. He also admitted there had been forthright discussions behind closed doors on the Iran nuclear deal, which America has withdrawn from but Britain still supports, citing Sir Winston Churchill and saying the evil regime must be confronted. The comments, given in a press conference and speech in London after talks with Mrs May and Jeremy Hunt, the Foreign Secretary, made clear that fundamental differences on key issues remain between the two countries. However they were delivered alongside talk about the special relationship thriving and being unbreakable, with Mr Pompeo appearing at pains to stress how closely the US-UK partnership is valued by the Trump administration. Mr Pompeo said that the US president was eager to sign a free trade deal after Brexit that would take their trading relationship onto unlimited new heights, however the protracted negotiations with Brussels end. There was also a public swipe at Jeremy Corbyn, the Labour leader, over his historic support for the Venezuelan government, with Mr Pompeo saying it was disgusting that some politicians both sides of the Atlantic were backing its embattled president Nicolas Maduro. Mr Trump comes to Britain next month for his state visit and the remarks will leave Downing Street braced for further criticism from the president himself. Story continues Jeremy Hunt, the Foreign Secretary, and Mike Pompeo, the US secretary of state, in London Credit: REUTERS/Hannah McKay The Trump administration has been lobbying European countries against allowing Huawei access into 5G networks, fearing that the Chinese government would have unrestricted access to information streams handled by the company. The demand has created tension with Britain, a partner in the Five Eyes intelligence sharing pact, given Mrs May has privately backed giving Huawei restricted access to the 5G network, as revealed by The Daily Telegraph. That leak led to the dismissal of Gavin Williamson as defence secretary. Addressing the issue in a speech in London honouring Mrs Thatcher, Mr Pompeo asked what the former prime minister would have thought of the various challenges posed by China today. Would she allow China to control the internet of the future?, Mr Pompeo asked, referencing the Iron Lady Mrs Thatchers nickname. Mike Pompeo speaks on the US-UK relationship during an event at Lancaster House in central London Credit: Mandel Ngan/Pool Photo via AP Look, I know its a sensitive topic, but we have to talk about sensitive things as friends. As a matter of Chinese law, the Chinese government can rightfully demand access to data flowing through Huawei and ZTE systems. Why would anyone grant such power to a regime that has already grossly violated cyberspace? Earlier at a press conference alongside Mr Hunt, Mr Pompeo said that "technical" discussions were on-going between the two governments but America had made its views clear. The United States has an obligation to ensure that places where we operate, places where American information is, places where we have our national security at risk, that they operate inside trusted networks. And thats what well do, he said. UK officials attempted to play down the differences, noting Mr Pompeo said he was confident both nations would make choices that ensured the security of their networks. Mike Pompeo leaving Number 10, where he held talks with Theresa May and Jeremy Hunt Credit: Wiktor Szymanowicz / Barcroft Images On Iran, which this week formally said it was preparing to leave the nuclear deal and start enriching uranium, Mr Pompeo urged a hard line. Not far from here are the Churchill War rooms where a leader of this great country stared evil in the face and recognised the threat that that evil presented to the entire world, Mr Pompeo said in the press conference. He also stressed that the US and UK were on the same side. On captured Isil soldiers, Mr Pompeo said: We have an expectation that every country will work to take back their foreign fighters and continue to hold those foreign fighters. Earlier Mr Pompeo had an hour-long lunch of venison carpaccio and British roast beef with Mr Hunt and aides at his official residence before a 30-minute meeting in Number 10 with Mrs May. Despite the differences Mr Pompeo played up the strength of the US-UK partnership, saying: The special relationship doesnt simply endure. It is thriving, despite what you might read in the papers. Now that the oldest millennials are approaching 40, the new frontier for venture capitalists is millennial parenthood. Its a cohort that hasnt hesitated to pay a premium for ease and convenience for themselves, so some investors are betting that theyll likely do the same for their families. Thats part of the reason a new startup called The Wonder raised $2 million for a New York family space set to open in Tribeca this month. Conceived and founded by Sarah Robinson, formerly of MAC Cosmetics, and Noria Morales, the former director of brand partnerships at Target, the $450-a-month members-only space allows families to swing by for childrens book clubs, after-school activities, and more. The hook? The Wonder isnt designed to cater only to kids; it also includes adult-friendly areas, like a hidden parents-only lounge. What it does not provide, though, is childcare. It sounds like a lot of money for something parents can, to a degree, find for freeplaydates in the park or story time at the library, anyone?but The Wonder founders say theyre going after a demographic who can afford it, and indeed, who already pay quite a lot for kid-focused activities. They estimate parents in their target customer base already spend between $3,000 and $6,000 per child annually on the kind of lessons and activities this space will offer. (The Wonders $4,800 annual price tag is per family, regardless of the number of children.) The book nook at The Wonder. | The Wonder Parents are looking for community, Robinson saysbut most community-building activities and classes are either adults-only or heavily kids-focused, leaving parents to stand around watching the clock. There was nothing for families, she adds. The Wonders investors include leader Female Founders Fund, Rebecca Minkoff, and Marissa Mayer. They identified an opportunity that has been very underserved when it comes to families, Female Founders Fund partner Anu Duggal says. The fact that there needs to be a space where families have the opportunitynot just for their childrenbut to socially spend time with each other. Its tied back to the rise of alternate community groups of people connecting on interest rather than something like religion. The investment is the first in a primarily brick-and-mortar business for Female Founders Fund. Story continues Sign up: Click here to subscribe to the Broadsheet, Fortunes daily newsletter on the worlds most powerful women. The Wonders design makes clear that the space has been created for families. Members enter to a Dyson-sponsored stroller valet, where they can park their strollers in a closet and return to oiled wheels and a full detailing. The parents-only lounge connects to the cafeserving wine and milk flights of regular, chocolate, and strawberrythrough a hidden entrance, so parents dont have to run past their kids yelling Mom! to get a drink. The bathroom boasts a deeper-than-usual sink for cleaning up diaper emergencies and a hand-dryer at kid level. The track list will play clean versions of Beyonce songs instead of the Itsy Bitsy Spider. The Wonder's retro-themed play area. With both founders coming from backgrounds in fashion, theres an emphasis on design. Instead of Cheerio art projects, Robinson points out kids will learn about and draw designs inspired by Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama. Moraless own 6-year-old recently built a model of the Vessel at Hudson Yards in the Wonders classroom. The play area at the center of the first-floor space will showcase rotating themes, starting with a retro look tied to this summers 50th anniversary of the Apollo moon landing. In a way, The Wonder flips the switch on the work-plus-childcare phenomenon. While a space like The Wing is foremost for work, now offering childcare through its Little Wing, The Wonder is first for familieswith cell phone use banned in much of the space, to bootbut providing parents with the ability to pop away to send a few emails. When I look at the landscape, activities are very much segmentedtheres stuff for kids thats fun for the kids, and stuff for adults that the kids hate, says Minkoff, who will lead a charades hour at the space. The Tribeca space can fit about 300 families, and the founders are hoping to expand soon; theyre eyeing the Upper East Side and Brooklyn as possible next stops, and Robinson says they hope to scale the concept nationally to most major metropolitan areas. By Naomi Tajitsu TOKYO (Reuters) - Mitsubishi Motors Corp forecast on Thursday a 19 percent fall in operating profit this year as it reins in aggressive growth amid slowing global car demand and charts a new course after the ouster of former chairman Carlos Ghosn. Japan's sixth-largest automaker, in which Nissan Motor Co holds a controlling stake, expects profit to fall to 90.0 billion yen ($821.02 million) in the year to March, after a 14 percent rise to 111.8 billion yen in the year just ended. Mitsubishi said the need to invest heavily to develop and market new, on-demand transportation services and lower-emissions vehicles to comply with tighter regulations would put pressure on the automaker's growth prospects in the coming years. It expects global sales to rise 4.9 percent to 1.31 million vehicles in the current year, slowing from the 13 percent growth seen in the year ended March as it sees sales growth slowing in Southeast Asia, a key market which has more than doubled in the past decade. Mitsubishi CEO Osamu Masuko said that the automaker would accept slower sales growth by easing the pace of expansion in ASEAN countries and growth markets of China and the United States in the coming years to ensure sustained profitability. "We need to drastically revise our strategy even if we experience a temporary stall in performance," Masuko told reporters at a briefing. "It's not realistic to adopt a strategy based only on expansion. We need to prioritize healthy growth." Masuko said that he would resist relying on discounting and fleet sales to grow overall sales, a strategy which has stung partner Nissan in the United States. Mitsubishi is contending with slowing demand for cars, ongoing global trade frictions and the need to develop new technologies just as it and its partners Nissan and France's Renault SA grapple with the fallout from the arrest of Ghosn, the group's former chairman who is facing charges of financial misconduct in Japan. Story continues Ghosn has been accused of enriching himself at a cost of $5 million to Nissan. Since his initial arrest in November, he has also been charged with temporarily transferring personal financial losses to his employer's books and understating his salary during his time at the helm of Japan's No. 2 automaker. He has denied all charges against him. Masuko said he was unaware of plans by Renault to propose the creation of a joint holding company that would give the French automaker and Nissan equal footing, as media had reported late last month. He added that the three companies had not discussed management integration, an idea which Nissan has long opposed. (Reporting by Naomi Tajitsu; Editing by Muralikumar Anantharaman) To win a fresh mandate for himself and his party in Indias upcoming elections, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has made extravagant promises and worrisome threats. He can fairly be accused of fanning flames of hostility toward Indias Muslim population of up to 200 million, and when terrorists killed at least 40 Indian paramilitary troops in the disputed province of Kashmir earlier this year, Modi ordered airstrikes into Pakistani territory, a dangerous escalation by one nuclear-armed power against another. His economic record is mixed. Although India has become the worlds fastest-growing large economy, in January a leaked government survey (after the Modi government refused to release the data) showed the unemployment rate hit a 45-year high (6.1%) in 2017. To create a governing majority following the announcement of national election results later this month, Modi and his Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will probably have to find coalition partners. That, in turn, would water down some of his second-term plans. Yet, India still needs change, and Modi remains the person most likely to deliver. He has improved relations with China, the U.S. and Japan, but its his domestic development agenda that has done the most to improve the lives and prospects of hundreds of millions of people. Consider what hes already accomplished during five years in charge. First, hes ensured that the government has more revenue to spend. Thanks to the Goods and Services Tax enacted in 2017, Modi has streamlined an enormously complex system of state and federal tax collection, broadening the tax base and sharply reducing the amount of money lost to fraud. Thats a historic accomplishment in a country with so many development needs. Modi has directed unprecedented amounts of money toward the countrys seemingly endless need for new infrastructure. Construction of roads, highways, public transport and airports have sharply increased the countrys long-term economic potential. Although the process remains unfinished, the government has also brought electricity to remote villages that have never had it, a boon for economic potential, public safety and basic quality of life. Story continues The BJP-led government has also expanded a biometric identification system, begun under the previous Congress Partyled government, that has already taken iris scans and fingerprints from well over a billion people to help citizens prove who they are so they can receive services. It has provided bank accounts for 300 million people who have never had them, creating new opportunities for these people to access credit and state subsidies. It also brings them into the formal economy to potentially make the government more responsive to their needs. The government says these measures have cut sharply into waste and fraud within Indias welfare system, allowing the state to provide more and better services at a much lower cost. Health care reform could help half a billion poor people afford treatment for cancer and heart disease. A program known as Ujjwala Yojana has helped women in the countryside gain access to cooking gas for the first time. The Swachh Bharat program has built tens of millions of toilets for hundreds of millions of people. Modis commitment to renewable energy is part of his plan to make India a leader on climate change. None of these projects are complete, but all of them will help the vast majority of Indias people lead safer, healthier, more productive and more prosperous lives. What does it take to bring that scale of change in a country with 1.34 billion people who speak dozens of different languages and hundreds of dialects spread across states with differing customs and political cultures while competing for votes against dozens of national and local political parties? Thanks to his reform accomplishments, but also in part to his tough line on Pakistan and his appeal to Hindu pride, Modi is even more popular now than when he was first elected five years ago. Voters in states hit by past terrorist attacks, especially those along the border with Pakistan, want a forceful Prime Minister they believe will protect them. Modi also benefits from a lack of a credible alternative. The opposition Congress Partys election platform centers on a program that would provide direct cash payments to 50 million poor families. But a promise is not a plan, the BJP controls enough states to block a Congress governments projects and Modi has already delivered for many people. Modi has the instinct to dominate and the thin skin of other strongmen, but he also has a genuine track record in providing the kind of reform that developing India urgently needs. Los Angeles (AFP) - A weapons cache of more than 1,000 firearms and ammunition was seized in a raid on a multi-million dollar mansion in an upmarket neighborhood of Los Angeles, law enforcement authorities said Thursday. The seizure came following an anonymous tip that firearms were being sold illegally out of the home, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF) said. The house, which is mostly hidden from the street by high hedges, is located in the exclusive Holmby Hills area of Los Angeles, near the famed Playboy Mansion and less than a mile from the home of music industry power couple Jay-Z and Beyonce. A law enforcement source said the home belongs to Cynthia Beck, who has three children with Gordon Getty, the son of oil tycoon J. Paul Getty. Beck reportedly has had a longtime relationship with Girard Damien Saenz, the man who amassed the weapons and who was arrested at the home on suspicion of possessing, selling and manufacturing assault weapons. Saenz, 57, who has not yet been formally charged, was released Thursday morning on $50,000 bail. Video footage taken by local television stations showed Los Angeles police officers and ATF agents inspecting large piles of handguns and rifles outside the house. Photos taken at the scene also showed boxes of ammunition stacked on a table inside the large house, which was cluttered with the weapons. - 'Hoarder's heaven' - "It was a hoarder's heaven," the law enforcement source, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said in describing the scene. The local ABC news station said some of the guns were modern while others dated back 50 years or more. A few were even collectibles from the Civil War, it said. Ginger Cobrun, a spokeswoman for ATF, told AFP that Saenz had a collector's license but such a license does not allow a person to deal in firearms. She said investigators are still processing the evidence before deciding what charges to file and whether they will be at the state or federal level. Story continues "We will be tracing all the firearms to find out where they were purchased and who they were purchased by originally," she said. "We will also be using ballistics to determine if some of the guns were used in crime." Los Angeles police lieutenant Chris Ramirez told reporters at the scene that it was "beyond comprehension" for someone to have so many weapons, especially in such a posh neighborhood. "I've never seen so many weapons in my career of 31 years," he said. "It's kind of astounding." Authorities said it took some 30 law enforcement officers more than 15 hours -- beginning at 4:00 am (0800 GMT) on Wednesday -- to clear the house and remove the weapons. "Pursuant to an anonymous tip, ATF and LAPD became aware of an individual conducting illegal firearms (transactions) outside the scope of the federal firearm license that the individual possesses," Cobrun said, adding that there was no reason to "believe the public is in any danger." Beck, who is said to be living in Europe, could not be reached for comment. The Times said Beck and Saenz together own several properties in the Los Angeles area and an office building in San Francisco. A mother from California has filed a lawsuit against the retail website Etsy after her 18-month-old son was allegedly strangled by a beaded teething necklace purchased on the site. In October of 2016, Deacon Morin was placed down for a nap at a childcare center in Fontana, Cali. During this time, the necklace, which was given to his mother, Danielle Morin, as a gift from a close friend, allegedly tightened around his neck and did not release. Deacon was discovered unresponsive and rushed to a hospital, where, five days later, Danielle took him off life support, ABC7 reported. "Baby necklaces, if you use a baby necklace, should have a releasing safety clasp so if there's any pulling on it, it releases," Danielle's attorney, John Carpenter, told CBS Los Angeles. "This one that was purchased on Etsy had a screw on clasp that could not be released. And so when baby Deacon was hung up on something, it didn't release and caused him to suffocate." The necklace, according to the online receipt, is meant to alleviate pain during teething and was supposed to have a safety clasp that would release when pulled. Carpenter said that Etsy, which specializes in handmade products, is legally responsible for Deacon's death and has filed a lawsuit against the website. A lawsuit has also been filed against the Lithuanian company that produced the necklace. Etsy's terms of use reads: "The items in our marketplaces are produced, listed, and sold directly by independent sellers so Etsy cannot and does not make any warranties about their quality, safety, or even their legality. Any legal claim related to an item you purchase must be brought directly against the seller of the item. You release Etsy from any claims related to items sold through our services." However, Carpenter claims Danielle did not purchase the necklace and, therefore, did not agree to these terms. "I want parents to know there is no more Toys R Us and people need to go online to buy products and these products are dangerous and these products aren't always safe, Danielle said. No parent should have to grieve a child. No parent should have to bury their child. Story continues While a representative for Etsy did not immediately respond to Yahoo Lifestyles requests for comment, they released the following statement: Deacons death was a great tragedy and our hearts are with his mother and family. While we understand the desire to take action, Etsy is a platform and did not make or directly sell this item. We believe the allegations should be directed at the criminally-negligent daycare providers or, if appropriate, the seller of the necklace. The seller has not had any products on our website since last year and we do not represent the seller in any way. Read more from Yahoo Lifestyle: Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for nonstop inspiration delivered fresh to your feed, every day. Illustration: Team Mitch You can thank West Virginia senatorial candidate and coal magnate Don Blankenship for Senate Majority Leader McConnells bizarre nickname cocaine Mitch. Blankenship who served a year in prison for conspiring to violate federal safety standards after 29 miners were killed at his companys site in 2010 pulled out the moniker during his bid for the Republican senate primary last year, referring to an incident in 2014 when a cargo vessel owned by McConnells father-in-laws company was found leaving Colombia with 90 pounds of cocaine on board. Pinning this on McConnell is laughable, which is probably why the senator has embraced the phrase as a fundraising tool. On Wednesday, ThinkProgress reported that, for a $35 donation, McConnell is selling T-shirts of a faceless figure surrounded by a cloud of powder on the front, and Team Mitch Cartel Member on the back. (The figure bears a similarity to promotional material for the Netflix series Narcos.) If the T-shirts are a tactic to play off the momentum of an absurd political moment, they appear to ignore the on-the-ground reality for an alarming number of Kentucky residents. According to the National Center for Health Statistics, the state had the third-highest age-adjusted rates of death by drug overdose in 2017. That year, Kentucky had a total of 1,566 drug overdoses. According to Kentuckys Office of Drug Control Policy, at least 51 of those deaths were due to cocaine. McConnell has also painted himself as a leader in the fight against opioid abuse. His website features a page on McConnells work on the drug epidemic, listing major events in the senators efforts to combat opioid use, including Senator McConnell Welcomes White House Drug Czar to Kentucky. I make it a priority to invite Drug Czars to come here, so national policymakers can hear directly from those on the frontline of our fight against opioid and substance abuse, McConnell said, announcing the visit. As ThinkProgress notes, the shirts are tone deaf for a second reason: McConnell is a strong supporter of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), the deportation arm of the Department of Homeland Security which pursues cartel members and those involved in drug trafficking. In a July 2018 op-ed for The Courier-Journal, McConnell criticized those calling for more oversight of ICE, which has been accused of abusive policies, and those calling for the agency to be abolished, praising its efforts to halt drug deaths and murders by cartels. McConnell, whos held his Senate seat in Kentucky since 1984, is unlikely to be ousted from his position despite sporting a -13 net approval rating. Without a primary challenger or major Democrat in the race at this point, McConnell enjoys the advantage of a three-decade incumbent and the full backing of his party, in addition to his $3.5 million of cash on hand. Perhaps the T-shirts will top that number up a bit. Eggslut. | Photo: Steven H./Yelp Mothers Day is the No. 1 day of the year for consumer spending at local restaurants in California, according to an analysis of transactions at 42,000 local eateries by Womply, a provider of marketing and CRM software for small businesses. As patrons pack into California restaurants to treat mom to brunch or dinner, average daily revenue at local restaurants surges to $2,833, a 77% increase over an average day. That sales increase is driven by a 22% bump in transaction volume and 45% increase in purchase price. In Los Angeles, Mothers Day is also the No. 1 day of the year for consumer spending at local restaurants, according to Womply. Daily revenue increases to $2,916, up 83% over an average day, driven by a 20% increase in transaction volume and a 53% increase in purchase price. When it comes to honoring mothers of all kinds theres no room for half-measures. Still looking for ways to celebrate on May 12? We've got you covered. Hoodline crunched the numbers to find the top mom-approved outings around town, using both Yelp data and our own secret sauce to produce a ranked list of Los Angeless best options. With midday food and drinks galore, there's a reason brunch is a favorite Mother's Day tradition. Here are Los Angeles's best breakfast and brunch options by the numbers. 1. Eggslut Photo: Erik V./Yelp Topping the list is Eggslut. Located in Downtown at 317 S. Broadway in the Grand Central Market, the restaurant is the most popular breakfast and brunch restaurant in Los Angeles, boasting four stars out of 5,425 reviews on Yelp. 2. Blu Jam Cafe Photo: Chai V./Yelp Next up is Woodland Hills' Blu Jam Cafe, situated at 23311 Mulholland Drive. With four stars out of 931 reviews on Yelp, the breakfast and brunch spot has proven to be a local favorite. 3. The Nook Photo: Oscar O./Yelp Encino's The Nook, located at 17316 Ventura Blvd., is another top choice, with Yelpers giving the breakfast and brunch spot four stars out of 852 reviews. After brunch, why not treat mom to a top-rated art gallery? Story continues 1. Annenberg Space For Photography Photo: Richard L./Yelp Topping the list is Annenberg Space For Photography. Located at 2000 Ave. Of The Stars in Century City, the art gallery is the highest rated art gallery in Los Angeles, boasting 4.5 stars out of 354 reviews on Yelp. 2. Hauser & Wirth Photo: Hauser & Wirth/Yelp Downtown's Hauser & Wirth, located at 901 E. Third St., is another top choice, with Yelpers giving the art gallery four stars out of 104 reviews. To top off a lovely Mother's Day, look no further than the best wine bars in town. Whether it's red, white or rose you're after, these top spots are sure to deliver the goods. 1. Augustine Wine Bar Photo: Veronica S./Yelp Topping the list is Augustine Wine Bar. Located at 13456 Ventura Blvd. in Sherman Oaks, the wine bar is the highest rated wine bar in Los Angeles, boasting 4.5 stars out of 241 reviews on Yelp. 2. Colorado Wine Company Photo: J V H./Yelp Next up is Eagle Rock's Colorado Wine Company, situated at 2305 Colorado Blvd. With 4.5 stars out of 209 reviews on Yelp, the wine bar has proven to be a local favorite. 3. Venice Beach Wines Photo: Jen F./Yelp Venice's Venice Beach Wines, located at 529 Rose Ave., is another top choice, with Yelpers giving the wine bar four stars out of 321 reviews. This story was created automatically using local business data, then reviewed by an editor. Click here for more about what we're doing. Got thoughts? Go here to share your feedback. North Korea on Thursday denied the existence of political prison camps in the country, as it faced fierce criticism of its rights record at the United Nations. In rare remarks at the UN Human Rights Council, diplomats from Pyongyang defended leader Kim Jong Un's regime against a barrage of accusations, notably from Western states. "There are still some that persistently insist that political prison camps are operated in our country," said Pak Kwang Ho, a councillor at the central court of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK). "There is no such thing as a political prisoner, or a political prison camp, in the vocabulary of the criminal law and the criminal procedure law of the DPRK," he added. The North was appearing at its Universal Periodic Review (UPR), a session during which nations face human rights scrutiny every five years. While the United States and North Korea have both cut ties with regular rights council business, both still join the UPR. "The human rights situation in North Korea is deplorable and has no parallel in the modern world," said Mark Cassayre, charge d'affairs at the US mission. He called on Pyongyang to "immediately dismantle all political prison camps (and) release all political prisoners." Cassayre also accused the North of holding 80,000 to 120,000 people "in deplorable conditions," some for "merely possessing a religious text" Britain's deputy permanent representative to the UN in Geneva, Miriam Shearman, called on North Korea to "take immediate action to cease the practice of forced labour." Pak countered that the court-mandated labour performed by inmates at designated "reform institutions... is not forced labour." He insisted that convicts sentenced to carry out labour work eight hours days, with Sundays and holidays off. UN investigators have previously accused the North of "systematic, widespread and gross" human rights abuses, which was denounced by Pyongyang as a smear campaign to tarnish its international image. A landmark 2014 report by a UN Commission of Inquiry documented rampant human rights abuses in the North, ranging from rape, torture and extrajudicial killings to the operation of political prisons. The regime is estimated to have up to 120,000 North Koreans in the camps, where many detainees are said to have been jailed merely for being related to individuals deemed to be a threat to the state, rather than being convicted of internationally recognised criminal offences. SEOUL, May 9 (Reuters) - South Korea's President Moon Jae-in said on Thursday that North Korea's latest missile launch was probably a subdued protest against the United States after a failed summit of the two countries' leaders in Hanoi in February. North Korea fired what appeared to be two short-range missiles on Thursday, according to South Korea's military, days after its leader Kim Jong Un oversaw the test of multiple rockets and a missile. "North Korea seemed to be discontented it could not reach a deal in Hanoi," Moon said in an interview with South Korean broadcaster KBS. But the North appeared to have refrained from using weapons that directly threaten the United States, Moon said. (Reporting by Hyonhee Shin; Editing by Clarence Fernandez) SEOUL (Reuters) - South Korea's President Moon Jae-in said on Thursday that North Korea's latest missile launch was probably a subdued protest against the United States after a failed summit of the two countries' leaders in Hanoi in February. North Korea fired what appeared to be two short-range missiles on Thursday, according to South Korea's military, days after its leader Kim Jong Un oversaw the test of multiple rockets and a missile. "North Korea seemed to be discontented it could not reach a deal in Hanoi," Moon said in an interview with South Korean broadcaster KBS. But the North appeared to have refrained from using weapons that directly threaten the United States, Moon said. (Reporting by Hyonhee Shin; Editing by Clarence Fernandez) ROME (AP) A Polish-born Holocaust survivor opened a book fair in Italy on Thursday to a standing ovation, after organizers agreed to ban a publisher linked to a neo-fascist group. Halina Birenbaum, an 89-year-old poet who lives in Israel, was quoted by Italy's Corriere della Sera daily as saying "this is more proof for me that evil will not win." Birenbaum and the Auschwitz-Birkenau museum had threatened to boycott the 2019 Turin International Book Fair if it included the Altaforte publishing house, whose director is linked to the neo-fascist CasaPound party. "We consider our presence incompatible with that of a neo-fascist publishing house that openly spreads a revisionist culture," read a letter signed by Birenbaum and others, including Piotr Cywinski, director of the state museum in Poland. "In my life I suffered too much to be in the same place with people who propagate ideas that caused me to lose all of my family," Birenbaum, a survivor of the Warsaw Ghetto and camps including Auschwitz and Majdanek, said in comments carried by state broadcaster RAI. The head of the publishing house, Francesco Polacchi, has defined himself as a fascist. He has praised late Italian dictator Benito Mussolini and said "anti-fascism is the true evil in this country." Polacchi, who is also under investigation for promoting fascism, said he would sue. He called the ban an attack on the county's hard-line interior minister, Matteo Salvini. Altaforte is publishing a book of interviews with Salvini that was to be presented at the fair. Salvini also denounced the ban on Altaforte, saying there is a "minority on the left that claims the right to decide who can make music, who can do theater, who can publish books." "Ideas are answered with other ideas, not with censorship," Salvini said. Italian President Sergio Mattarella sent a message to the fair organizer saying that the values of Auschwitz survivor and writer Primo Levi, who was born in Turin, should "constitute the fundamental basis for a peaceful society and a respectful social coexistence." By Peter Szekely May 9 (Reuters) - A move by a Rhode Island school district to collect overdue lunch money that often amounted to nickels and dimes erupted into a food fight with irate parents this week, and had administrators walking back their get-tough policy. It began last Sunday when Warwick Public Schools announced that starting on May 13, students who owe money on their lunch accounts would be served sunflower butter and jelly sandwiches until they paid up. The terse announcement, made on the school district's Facebook account, elicited more than 1,000 comments, many from parents angry about having their kids singled out for owing what they said was often pocket change. "I got three letters for .05 cents owed," wrote parent Angela Lewis. "Finally I taped a nickel to the paper and sent it in. Really they need to chase a nickel!" "This is absolutely awful," added Sarah Hovey Bouvier. "Our schools shouldn't be in the business of shaming children." But some residents supported the school district's move as measured response to a nagging problem. "If anyone can suggest a better way for the city to collect money owed please suggest it," said Warwick business owner Adam W. Gil. "The kids will still eat." Adding irritation to the dispute were reports that a local restaurant owner tried to give the schools $4,000 collected from donation jars, but was refused. By Wednesday, however, the district said its School Committee Policy Subcommittee was recommending the panel rescind the policy, and posted a lengthy clarification of what led to it. It said it was working with attorneys so it could legally accept donations. For one thing, the Warwick School Committee said, the sunflower-and-jelly sandwiches, which are already a regular lunch menu choice, are accompanied by vegetables, fruit and milk, making it a "balanced lunch." The lunch debts, which totaled $77,000, were caused not so much by students who are eligible for free or subsidized meals, but by kids from financially stable homes who ran up tabs for snacks, such as pizza, fries, and ice cream, the committee said. Nearly three-quarters of the 1,653 Warwick students who owe lunch money were not enrolled in the schools' free or subsidized lunch program, it said. "With this Policy we seek to find a balance between being fiscally responsible and ensuring that all our students are provided with a healthy, nutritious lunch," School Committee Chairwoman Karen Bachus said in the Wednesday Facebook post. (Reporting by Peter Szekely Editing by Susan Thomas) Brian Encinia, a former trooper with the Texas Department of Safety, confronting Sandra Bland at a traffic stop. Photo: Sandra Bland Brian Encinia said that he ordered Sandra Bland out of her vehicle, forced her to the ground, and handcuffed her on July 10, 2015, because he feared for his safety. My safety was in jeopardy at more than one time, the formerTexas Department of Safety trooper told the agencys Office of Inspector General. I had a feeling that anything couldve been either retrieved or hidden within her area of control. But newly released footage contradicts this account. On Monday, reporters with Dallas television station WFAA aired a 39-second cell phone video captured by Bland that had not been previously made public. It depicts an irate Encinia threatening to light up the black 28-year-old with his stun gun and demanding that she exit her car and get off the phone, all while Bland asks him repeatedly why a failure to signal called for such treatment. The video shows that [Encinia] wasnt in fear of his safety, Cannon Lambert, a lawyer for Blands family, told the New York Times. You could see that it was a cell phone. He was looking right at it. Bland was found dead in a Waller County jail cell three days later; authorities ruled her death a suicide. Nationwide protests followed. The Naperville, Illinois, native who, before her arrest, was en route to start a new job at Prairie View A&M University in Prairie View, Texas became the most prominent woman to die in police custody as a result of police violence during the height of the Black Lives Matter movement. Encinia was charged with perjury for lying about the circumstances surrounding Blands arrest, but the charges were dropped on the condition that he never seek a job in law enforcement again. As a result, Encinia whose former lawyer told the Times that he is now working in the private sector, supporting his wife and family and living a quiet life became one of the countless American police officers to face no legal consequences for demonstrated misconduct. The gravity of Encinias behavior falls short of the murderousness shown by Michael Slager and Jason Van Dyke, police officers who were convicted of crimes after shooting and killing black men. But it is an edifying example nonetheless in the debate over whether cases of police misconduct are a series of isolated incidents or part of a systemic problem. Public opinion is divided on the issue but perhaps predictably, the divide is largely racial and politically partisan. According to a 2015 PRRI survey conducted after the killings of Mike Brown and Freddie Gray, 74 percent of black Americans believed that such killings were part of a broader pattern of police behavior, compared to 43 percent of white Americans. Thirty percent of Democrats felt they were isolated incidents, compared to 65 percent of Republicans. The position held by most whites and Republicans can be summarized as the bad apple theory of law enforcement the idea that a few bad actors exist but should not reflect poorly on an otherwise-good bunch. Prominent subscribers include formerU.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions, who has deployed this argument to discredit federal oversight of local police departments. I think theres concern that good police officers and good departments can be sued by the Department of Justice when you just have individuals within a department who have done wrong, the then-senator said in 2017. About 67 percent of police officers agree with Sessions that these occurrences say little about policing as a whole. But what happens in their immediate aftermath is just as illuminating in uncovering the truth as the incidents themselves. Encinia did not just order Bland out of her car, threaten her, and arrest her for apparently frivolous reasons. He lied to investigators about the threat that he believed she posed. His official account of the exchange hinged entirely on the assertion that his actions were justified because he thought he was in danger. And he is not alone in pursuing this line of reasoning. Almost every prominent police killing or assault of an unarmed black person in recent years has been followed by official claims that the officer feared for his or her safety. In cases as disparate geographically as the shooting deaths of Mike Brown in Missouri, Terence Crutcher in Oklahoma, Sam Dubose in Ohio, and the 15-year-old boy attacked in April by sheriffs deputies in Broward County, Florida, police have invoked the fear they purportedly felt to justify their violence. This approach has yielded dividends. Department policy and Supreme Court precedent have combined to render more or less legal the brutalization of civilians, as long as the officer in question can demonstrate that their actions were objectively reasonable. Of course, what is considered objectively reasonable shifts from state to state and case to case such that more often than not, merely claiming to have felt fear is treated as objectively reasonable grounds for murder. We can say with confidence that this is a systemic problem because letting these officers off the hook is a systemic act enshrined in law and practice across the United States and carried out in official press conferences, departmental investigations, and grand jury proceedings. A few bad apples are not to blame for a system-wide mechanism which police can so reliably turn to for exoneration that they do so almost every time they are caught doing wrong. There is something fundamentally nefarious about the whole institution when so many such cases follow a familiar script: Commit violence against an unarmed civilian, then claim often dishonestly to have been so frightened that no other option was available. Sandra Bland may have been mistreated by a lone officer on the street that day. But it was the system that empowered Encinia to treat her as he did in the first place and that gave him confidence that even if the encounter ended with her dying, he could lie and expect to be protected. By Josh Smith and David Brunnstrom SEOUL/WASHINGTON (Reuters) - North Korea fired what appeared to be two short-range missiles on Thursday in its second such test in less than a week, and the United States said it had seized a North Korean cargo ship as tensions again mounted between the two countries. U.S. President Donald Trump said that "nobody is happy" at the launches, but appeared to hold the door open for more talks with North Korea. South Korea said the tests were worrisome and unhelpful and likely a protest against Trump refusing to ease economic sanctions at a failed summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un in February. Washington has given no sign of willingness to budge on sanctions and the U.S. Justice Department announced on Thursday the seizure of a North Korean cargo vessel it said was involved in the illicit shipping of coal. North Korea has effectively pulled back from engagement with Washington since the February meeting between Kim and Trump in Hanoi collapsed without agreement on U.S. demands for the dismantling of Pyongyang's nuclear program and Kim's demands for relief from punishing sanctions. "The relationship continues. ... I know they want to negotiate, they're talking about negotiating. But I don't think they're ready to negotiate," Trump told reporters. Acting U.S. Defense Secretary Patrick Shanahan said Washington would continue to focus on diplomatic efforts with North Korea. "We're going to stick to our diplomacy and as you all know, we haven't changed our operations or our posture and we'll continue to generate the readiness we need in case diplomacy fails," he told reporters. Trump has held up a freeze in missile testing since 2017 as a sign of progress in his talks with North Korea after exchanges of fiery rhetoric two years ago raised fears of war. North Korea formally announced a freeze in intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) and nuclear bomb tests in April last year and Trump stressed that the missiles fired were not of a kind that could threaten the United States. Story continues "We're looking at it very seriously right now. They were smaller missiles, they were short-range missiles," he said. "Nobody's happy about it but we're taking a good look and we'll see." The Pentagon said the launches consisted of multiple ballistic missiles that flew in excess of 300 km (185 miles) and landed in the ocean. North Korea's official KCNA news agency reported that Kim oversaw the army "strike drill," and said he noted that "genuine peace and security of the country are guaranteed only by the strong physical force capable of defending its sovereignty." White House Chief of Staff Mick Mulvaney played down the tests, telling CBS News the "supposed provocation" was "very minor." "These missiles, whatever they were, whatever you want to call them, they were very small. And not aimed at Japan, not aimed at Guam, they were aimed up the North Korean coast. So it was a very non-provocative provocation, if there is such a thing." He said the relationship between Kim and Trump remained good and he was confident there would be more talks with North Korea. "We want additional talks," he said. Asked if the U.S. side wanted another summit, he said: "Eventually? Yeah, I think we do," while adding that at the last summit, the North Koreans "were not really willing to negotiate.' "They gave us an offer - you know, a take-it-or-leave-it offer - five different times. And we couldn't take it, so we had to leave." U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urged all parties to continue talks toward denuclearization, warning that Pyongyang's latest action "serves only to increase tensions." On Saturday, Kim oversaw the test-firing of multiple rockets and a missile. That was North Korea's first test of a ballistic missile since an ICBM launch in November 2017 that it said was capable of delivering a warhead anywhere in the United States. South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff said the two missiles fired on Thursday flew east from the northwestern area of Kusong and covered 420 km (260 miles) and 270 km (168 miles) and reached an altitude of about 50 km (30 miles) before falling into the sea. South Korean President Moon Jae-in, who has strongly advocated engagement with North Korea, said that even if the missiles were short-range, they could still violate U.N. resolutions barring North Korea from developing ballistic missiles. "North Korea seemed to be discontented it could not reach a deal in Hanoi," he told South Korean broadcaster KBS, while adding that he saw the tests as a sign that North Korea wanted to negotiate. He said he planned to push for a fourth inter-Korean summit with Kim. U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo met on Thursday with Japan's chief Cabinet secretary, Yoshihide Suga, who was expected to raise Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's hopes for a summit with Kim. Trump and Pompeo have brushed aside Kim's demand for Washington to show more flexibility in talks by the end of the year. 'ESCALATION TACTICS' Analysts said it was too soon to say exactly what kind of missiles were involved in the latest launches, but the range would probably exceed that of most of the rockets North Korea fired on Saturday from its east coast into the ocean. "North Korea has returned to its classic escalation tactics from before," said Yang Uk, a senior research fellow at the Korea Defence and Security Forum. "I believe they will keep escalating by using what appear to be short-range missiles, something that will not cause the U.S. to react right away." Harry Kazianis, of Washington's Center for the National Interest think tank, said the launches could only worsen tensions. "While this ... does not violate Pyongyangs promise to halt longer-range tests, North Korea has now made it clear it will not halt developing other parts of its military capabilities that threaten the region," he said. "Kims goal, beyond ensuring his weapons programs are becoming more powerful, is quite clear: to show America and its allies that if they arent willing to compromise on the terms of denuclearization, that Pyongyang will indeed go its own way, with missile launches once again becoming the new norm." The latest tests coincided with a visit to the South Korean capital by U.S. special envoy for North Korea Stephen Biegun. North Korea lashed out at the United States and South Korea this week, saying last weekend's launches were "regular and self-defensive." It criticized Seoul and Washington for carrying out military drills. North Korea has repeatedly denounced U.S.-led sanctions aimed at pressing it to give up its nuclear weapons and the mood will not have been lightened by the ship seizure announced on Thursday, the first by the United States of a North Korean cargo vessel for violating sanctions. The Justice Department said the 17,061-ton "Wise Honest," one of North Korea's largest cargo ships, was first detained by Indonesia in April 2018. It said it was now in the possession of the United States and was currently approaching U.S. territorial waters around American Samoa. At the U.N. Human Rights Council in Geneva on Thursday, the United States called on North Korea to dismantle camps it said held tens of thousands of political prisoners. North Korea denied it held political prisoners and said U.S. sanctions were hampering North Koreans' enjoyment of life. "Such anachronistic acts are very dangerous," its ambassador to the council, Han Tae Song, said. (Reporting by Josh Smith, Hyonhee Shin and Joyce Lee in Seoul; Elaine Lies in Tokyo; David Brunnstrom, Steve Holland, Idrees Ali, Sarah N. Lynch and Makini Brice in Washington; Michelle Nichols at the United Nations and Stephanie Nebehay in Geneva; Editing by Alistair Bell, James Dalgleish and Peter Cooney) North Korea fired a number of unidentified projectiles Thursday, the South's military said, as a US envoy visited Seoul for discussions on how to break the nuclear deadlock. "North Korea fired unidentified projectiles eastward" from Sino-ri in North Pyongan province, the South's Joint Chiefs of Staff said in a statement. The launch came just days after North Korea carried out a military drill and fired multiple projectiles, with at least one believed to be a short-range missile. It was also hours after the US Special Representative on North Korea, Stephen Biegun, arrived in Seoul late Wednesday for talks with South Korean officials on the allies' approach towards Pyongyang. It is Biegun's first visit to Seoul since the Hanoi summit between US President Donald Trump and the North's leader Kim Jong Un collapsed without agreement. "We are still analysing whether it is a single or multiple projectiles," JCS spokesman Kim Joon-rak told AFP. Pyongyang, Seoul and Washington have refrained from calling Saturday's launch a missile, which could jeopardise the ongoing diplomacy by violating UN Security Council resolutions as well as Kim's promise of a freeze on long-range missile tests. The North has said Saturday's drill involved multiple Pyongyang "long-range multiple rocket launchers and tactical guided weapons". But experts say the North launched at least one short-range missile during the exercise, with a report on the respected 38 North website suggesting that it was a "direct import" of a Russian-produced Iskander. "The debris generated by the launch in North Korea is a virtual match of a launch of Iskander conducted by Russia," it said. If North Korea imported Iskanders from Russia, the report added, "it has an existing capacity to deliver warheads to targets in South Korea with great precision". A summit between South Korean President Moon Jae-in and the North's Kim Jong Un a year ago triggered a rapid diplomatic thaw on the peninsula, paving the way for a historic first meeting between Kim and Trump. Story continues But their second summit in Hanoi in February broke up without agreement on sanctions relief and what Pyongyang might offer in exchange, and the North has since blamed Seoul for siding with Washington, leaving inter-Korean relations in limbo. A spokesman for the North's delegation for military talks with the South said earlier Thursday that Saturday's "routine drill" was conducted within its own waters and added the "flying objects" did not pose any threat to the US, South Korea and Japan. "The firing of the intermediate- and long-range missile and the ICBM was not involved in it," he said in a statement carried by the official Korean Central News Agency. People watch a TV showing a file photo of North Korea's weapon systems during a news programme in Seoul, South Korea on Thursday. (AP Photo/Ahn Young-joon) North Korea has fired at least one unidentified projectile from the countrys western area, South Koreas military has said. It would be the second such launch in the last five days and a possible warning that nuclear disarmament talks could be in danger. The Souths Joint Chiefs of Staff had no other immediate details, and it was not clear what the North had fired. However, some analysts have said that if the North returns to the kind of longer-range banned weapons that it tested in 2017, when many feared a Washington-Pyongyang stand-off could end in war, it will be a strong sign that a frustrated North Korea is turning away from diplomacy. North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un in Russia earlier this month (Sergei Ilnitsky/Pool Photo via AP) A summit earlier this year between President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un ended in failure. Last month, the North Korean leader travelled to Russia t meet Vladimir Putin. North Korea wants widespread sanctions relief in return for disarmament steps that the US has apparently seen as insufficient. Longer-range ballistic missile tests, banned by the UN and seen as threatening by surrounding countries, would be likely to result in more sanctions. The launch came hours after the North through its state media described its firing of rocket artillery and an apparent short-range ballistic missile on Saturday as a regular and defensive military exercise. It also ridiculed South Korea for criticising the launches. The projectile was launched from the Sino-ri area of North Pyongang Province, an area known to host one of North Koreas oldest missile bases where a brigade operates mid-range Rodong missiles. Kim Jong Un walks with President Donald Trump during the second North Korea-U.S. summit in Hanoi, Vietnam, earlier this year (Reuters) The launch comes as the US special representative for North Korea, Stephen Biegun, visits South Korea. South Koreas presidential national security director, Chung Eui-yong, has been monitoring the situation while communicating with the defence ministry. People watch a TV at a train station in Seoul, South Korea, showing file footage of North Korea's missiles on May 9, 2019. For the second time in less than a week, North Korea launched suspected short-range missiles, according to South Korea's military. The projectiles were fired Thursday from near a military base about 50 miles from North Korea's capital Pyongyang. There were few other details immediately available. State media in North Korea said that on Saturday the nation held a short-range ballistic missile test as part of a regularly scheduled defensive military exercise. It was the country's first such test in more than a year and came amid what appear to be stalled denuclearization talks between Pyongyang and Washington. "We're looking at it very seriously now. Nobody's happy about it but we're taking a good look and we'll see," President Donald Trump said Thursday in response to North Korea's latest missile launch. "The relationship continues." 38 North, a website devoted to analysis of North Korea, said that Saturday's test provided "convincing evidence" that Pyongyang is continuing to seek greater military and strategic capabilities despite holding nuclear disarmament talks with Trump. "Pyongyang perceives itself to be under threat of aggression by the United States. (North Korea's leader) Kim Jong Un very likely has other strategic weapons projects underway, whether foreign procurement efforts or indigenous development programs," 38 North said in a post on its website. South Korean media noted that Thursday's launch coincided with a visit to the Korean Peninsula by the U.S. Special Representative for North Korea. Stephen Biegun arrived in Seoul on Wednesday for talks with South Korea's leader about inter-Korean issues, including ways to move beyond an apparent Trump-Kim impasse after two summits failed to produce any tangible agreements on North Korea's denuclearization. Otto Warmbier's mother: North Korea is a 'cancer,' criticizes 'charade' diplomacy Story continues South Korea's military indicated the projectiles launched Thursday likely crash-landed in the East China Sea. Japans Kyodo News agency said there was no threat or impact on that nation's national security. There was also no threat to Guam or the Mariana Islands, U.S. territories located 2,100 miles southeast of the launch area, according to the offices of Guam Homeland Security and Civil Defense. South Koreas military said the two suspected missiles flew about 260 miles and 167 miles, respectively. It said the base from where they were likely launched is also home to medium-range missiles that can fly up to 800 miles, enough to strike Japan. The second Trump-Kim summit took place in Hanoi, Vietnam, in February. It ended without agreement over what to do about North Korea's nuclear program after Trump refused to grant Pyongyang economic sanctions relief. "Sometimes you have to walk and this was one of those times," Trump said at the time. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said Sunday that North Korea's weekend missile test would not trigger new sanctions or hinder any diplomatic process because the test did not involve long-range or intercontinental missiles, an apparent red line. Trump said Thursday that "North Korea has tremendous potential economically" and he didn't think Kim would want to jeopardize that. Separately Thursday, Justice Department officials announced that they seized a North Korean ship, "Wise Honest," that violated international sanctions by attempting to sell coal, which is on a United Nations Security Council export ban list for the country. "This sanctions-busting ship is now out of service," Assistant Attorney General John C. Demers said in a statement. A complaint seeking the vessel's forfeiture was filed in federal District Court by the U.S. attorneys office for the Southern District of New York. North Korea: U.S. seizes cargo ship linked to sanctions violations by exporting coal Shea Cotton, an expert on North Korea at the James Martin Center for Nonproliferation Studies in Monterey, California, said that North Koreas latest missile test could be aimed at extracting sanctions concessions from Trump. "By doing these smaller scale missile tests I think its in part done to send a signal that North Korea can go back to doing those missile tests whenever it wants and if Trump wants to stop that he needs to give North Korea something," he said. "There is certainly frustration on the North Korean side for lack of progress," said Jenny Town, a Stimson Center think tank fellow and managing editor of 38 North. "North Korea will continue to develop its defensive capabilities as long as its relationship with both Seoul and Washington remain fundamentally unchanged," she said. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: North Korea launches second projectile in less than a week North Korea launched two short-range missiles early Thursday morning, conducting its second weapons test in less than a week, South Koreas military said. The missiles, which had a range of approximately 420 kilometers and 270 kilometers, were fired at 4:29 p.m. and 4:49 p.m. local time, a statement from South Koreas Joint Chiefs of Staff said. The US and South Korean intelligence authority is conducting analysis for additional information, the JCS said. Our military has currently heightened its surveillance and alertness against possible additional launches, whilst maintaining combat readiness in close coordination with the US. The missiles had an altitude of about 50 kilometers and landed in the Sea of Japan, according to South Koreas Ministry of National Defense. The two recent launches were the first the North has ventured since November 2017. They have further complicated denuclearization talks between the U.S. and North Korea, after President Trumps February summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un was cut short when negotiations reached a stalemate. The Norths tests have also strained relations with South Korea, with whom they agreed a year ago at a highly anticipated summit to make joint efforts to alleviate the acute military tension and practically eliminate the danger of war on the Korean Peninsula. North Koreas missile tests tapered off after the initial summit between Trump and Kim in June of last year, the first between a U.S. president and a North Korean leader, but have become more frequent as the U.S. has rejected the regimes demands, including the removal of Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and a complete lifting of U.S. sanctions on the country. More from National Review Students and community members at a vigil for Kendrick Castillo, who was killed in a school shooting Tuesday. Photo: Michael Ciaglo/Getty Images In the aftermath of Tuesdays shooting at a suburban Denver high school, where one student was killed and another eight were injured, Colorado District Attorney George Brauchler asked the media to adopt a no-notoriety approach. I know that you have an obligation to report the name, the identity. I know you have the obligation to put out a picture, he said. But soon, very soon, let us move past focusing on the identity of the suspects and their images and focus instead on the innocent victims of this crime and the investigation itself. 48 hours later, Brauchler should be satisfied. Far more news coverage has been devoted to Kendrick Castillo, the 18-year-old who was killed in an act of heroism Tuesday, than to the suspects in his murder. One local outlet, Fox21 News, announced that it would not show any images of the suspects and would instead focus its coverage solely on the victims. And NBC News host Gadi Schwartz, in a broadcast of the networks SnapChat news show, chose not to name the suspects. No notoriety, he said. No notoriety I love this and every single article about a killer should not have their name or picture. pic.twitter.com/LV8VTPszYR JESS (@jesssiicax_) May 9, 2019 Six years after the founding of the group No Notoriety, the movement is catching on. Started by Tom and Caren Teves after their son Alex was killed in the 2012 Aurora theater shooting, No Notoriety calls for the media to deprive mass shooters of infamy, which it calls a well-known motivating factor in rampage mass killings and violent copycat crimes. The San Diego Union-Tribunes editorial board acknowledged the same factor last month when it announced a new policy: The newspaper will no longer name mass shooters in editorials. Not every mass shooting is the sick work of someone who wants their name to live forever on a roster of rampage. But since shooting contagion exists, we can help minimize it, the board wrote. A shift in focus, away from the shooters and toward mourning the victims, has been evident in the aftermath of several recent shootings. Coverage of Riley Howell, who was killed while tackling a gunman in his college classroom last week, has far outpaced coverage of his killer. New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern refused to speak the name of the white supremacist who gunned down 51 people at two Christchurch mosques last month. The PittsburghvPost-Gazette won a Pulitzer for its victim-heavy coverage of the Tree of Life synagogue shooting last year. Jaclyn Schildkraut, a professor at State University of New York at Oswego and author of Mass Shootings: Media, Myths, and Realities, wrote in February for Vox that outsized media attention to mass shooters can inspire others: There are a number of problems with the intense media focus on mass shooting perpetrators. First, they are explicitly seeking fame, and the media is helping them to achieve this end. The realization that this route to fame works can, in turn, produce more lethal events and foster one-upmanship among perpetrators. The copycat effect is real. A 2015 study suggests that a mass shooting increases the likelihood of an additional mass shooting in the two-week period following the incident. A more recent study was less supportive of the thesis of short-term contagion but still cautioned that the media coverage of these attacks might well lead to copycat events over a longer period. Even the Trump administration has taken notice, with the White Houses School Safety Commission calling for no notoriety for schools shooters last year. The discussion has recently filtered down, from activists and academics to newsrooms. Along with the recent decisions by the San Diego Tribune, Fox 21, and NBC News, Emily Richmond of the Education Writers Association has encouraged a rethinking of how mass shootings are covered. Writing for the the Columbia Journalism Review in February, Richmond said one of the questions reporters must grapple with is when their news outlets will name perpetrators, and how often. The argument is not that the shooters names should be blacked out, No Notoriety founder Tom Teaves recently told the AP. Its that their names should be used rarely and to portray them for what they are he said. Theyre horrible human beings that are completely skewed in their perception of reality, and their one claim to fortune is sneaking up behind you and shooting you. Novo Nordisk (NYSE: NVO) continued its slow-but-steady growth as it waits for an inflection point from the launch of oral semaglutide, which should be approved by the FDA later this year. Novo Nordisk results: The raw numbers Metric Q1 2019 Q1 2018 Year-Over-Year Change Revenue 29.3 billion DKK 26.9 billion DKK 9% Income from operations 14.2 billion DKK 12.4 billion DKK 14% Earnings per share 4.36 DKK 4.40 DKK (1%) Data source: Novo Nordisk. 1 Danish krone (DKK) = $0.15 as of May 9. What happened with Novo Nordisk this quarter? A relatively strong Danish krone buoyed sales and operating income. At constant exchange rates, sales growth was a more modest 4%, while operating income was up 8% year over year. Operating income grew faster than revenue because there was a one-time reversal of writedowns of oral semaglutide pre-launch inventory. International operations drove the growth in sales. More specifically, the region that encompasses Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and Oceania was up 29% year over year at constant exchange rates. Sales in the U.S. were down 5% at constant exchange rates due to changes in inventory. In the U.S., Novo Nordisk's largest region by far, sales of insulin decreased 14% at constant exchange rates because of the aforementioned reduced inventory as well as lower prices. The decrease was in part offset by increases in sales of GLP-1 drugs -- Victoza and Ozempic -- which increased 6% at constant exchange rates. In February, the Food and Drug Administration approved Esperoct for patients with hemophilia A. The European Commission is expected to approve the drug shortly, rubber-stamping a positive opinion from the Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use that was issued in April. In March, Novo Nordisk filed three marketing applications with the FDA. Two of the applications were for oral semaglutide (the same active ingredient as in injectable Ozempic): one for lowering blood glucose levels and one for cardiovascular risk reduction; the third application was for Ozempic as a treatment for cardiovascular risk reduction. Because an oral GLP-1 drug would be a game changer in the diabetes indication, Novo Nordisk used a priority review voucher to speed up the FDA review process for blood glucose levels, setting up a potential approval six months after the submission. Doctor helps patient with a blood glucose monitor Image source: Getty Images. Story continues What management had to say Lars Fruergaard Jorgensen, Novo Nordisk's president and CEO, highlighted how Ozempic has helped increase the overall GLP-1 market in the U.S.: Since the launch of Ozempic in the first quarter of 2018, the annual GLP-1 market growth has accelerated from 23% to the current market growth of just under 30%. We are pleased with the Ozempic launch, which has now achieved a total GLP-1 volume market share of 11.8% in the U.S. Novo Nordisk has thereby stabilized its GLP-1 volume market share at around 44%. Jorgensen also talked about acquisition plans: We're looking at relative smaller-size transactions in the low single billion dollar range. When you look at therapy areas and technologies, it's really opportunity-based. And I think we have opportunities both in our core area, but of course we have a more stated strategy of supporting growth in the biopharm area based on in-licensing and acquisitions. Looking forward Management is still looking for 2019 sales growth of 2% to 5% at constant exchange rates with operating income growth in the 2% to 6% range. Oral semaglutide should be approved in the U.S. late in the third quarter, providing some growth late this year and hopefully accelerating growth next year. While the drug will certainly cannibalize sales of Victoza and Ozempic, oral semaglutide should take some sales from other injected GLP-1 drugs, such as Eli Lilly's Trulicity, and more importantly, win over type 2 diabetes patients who have resisted injectable medications. More From The Motley Fool Brian Orelli has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool recommends Novo Nordisk. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. By Lisa Rapaport (Reuters Health) - People looking to a popular online symptom checker for answers about eye problems often get a wrong diagnosis, a small study suggests. Symptom checkers are all over the web, often using algorithms to deliver diagnoses even as they post disclaimers advising against using these tools for medical advice. While some studies have already documented many ways that symptom checkers can mislead patients, less is known about how well they work specifically for eye conditions, researchers note in JAMA Ophthalmology. For the current study, researchers tested how often an online symptom checker offered by WebMD generated the correct diagnosis for 42 clinical vignettes similar to situations that patients might describe to doctors in person. They wanted to see how often the symptom checker got the correct diagnosis or at least generated the right diagnosis as one of the top three possible answers. The tests were conducted in late 2017. Overall, the symptom checker nailed the diagnosis for just 11 of the 42 cases, or only 26 percent of the time. And the correct diagnosis was among the top three possible diagnosis in just 16 cases, or 40 percent of the time. "Ultimately, what's at stake here is the patient's vision and peace of mind," said lead study author Dr. Carl Shen of McMaster University in Hamilton, Canada. "If patients receive the wrong diagnosis or are told to not urgently seek medical care when they otherwise should have, they may run the risk of losing their eyesight, sometimes permanently," Shen said by email. Out of the 42 vignettes in the study, 18 were "emergent" conditions that needed immediate care and 24 were "nonemergent." On average, the vignettes included three to four symptoms, and many had at least one symptom that didn't directly involve the eye. The symptom checker got the urgency level of the situation right in just seven of the emergency cases, or only 39 percent of the time. It correctly categorized most of the non-emergency cases as situations that didn't need immediate care. Story continues When the symptom checker generated a long list of possible diagnoses, the correct one was usually 4 or 5 places down the list, on average, not in the top three. The most common diagnosis made by the symptom checker was nearsightedness, which was given in nine cases. It's unclear how closely the vignettes used in the study might match what patients would enter in an online symptom checker in real life. The study also wasn't designed to determine whether or how these online tools might influence patients' decisions about seeking medical care. "The version of the WebMD Symptom Checker used in this study represents the older version of the online tool, which did not use the latest algorithm and technology that drives the current version," Dr. Michael Smith, chief medical director for WebMD, said in an emailed statement. "Symptom checkers are intended for informational purposes only," Smith said. "They do not provide medical advice, and they are not a substitute for professional medical diagnosis." Still, the study highlights that patients need to proceed with caution when consulting "Dr. Google," said the author of an accompanying editorial, Dr. Rahul Khurana of Northern California Retina Vitreous Associates in Mountain View, California. "This is the first study to look at ocular online symptom checkers, and it clearly shows that they are not accurate," Khurana said by email. "The correct diagnosis is a combination of clinical history, physical exam, and physician input to generate the correct diagnosis," Khurana added. Online symptom checkers "could be a starting point, but they are very inaccurate so I would be cautious about them." SOURCE: https://bit.ly/2Juj3km and https://bit.ly/2VUqgkr JAMA Ophthalmology, online April 11, 2019. Washington (AFP) - Valerie Plame, who was infamously outed as an undercover CIA operative during the administration of George W. Bush, announced Thursday she is running for a seat in Congress. Plame, 55, was a covert agent working to prevent terrorists from acquiring nuclear weapons when her identity was leaked in 2003, reportedly by a State Department official, in a scandal that led to the conviction of a former vice presidential advisor. "My career in the CIA was cut short by partisan politics, but I'm not done serving our country," said Plame, who wants to represent a district in New Mexico in the House of Representatives. "We need more people in Congress with the courage to stand up for what's right." Plame's district that includes Santa Fe and the Los Alamos National Laboratory, the country's historic nuclear weapons facility that she says she visited regularly for her CIA work. The incumbent, Democrat Ben Ray Lujan, is stepping down to run for a Senate seat. Plame remains interested in national security issues but said she would also focus on expanding health care. "Everyone is losing under the health care system we have today except for insurance and drug companies," she said. Plame's name was illegally leaked to the US media after her then-husband Joe Wilson wrote a column casting doubt on Bush administration claims that Iraq's president Saddam Hussein had tried to purchase uranium for use in weapons production. After the scandal, then-vice president Dick Cheney's chief aide, Lewis "Scooter" Libby, was convicted of lying to the FBI in connection with the leak. Trump pardoned Libby last year, and no one was formally charged with leaking Plame's identity. After 10 years of political turmoil, assassinations and violent demonstrations, Asia Bibi's exit from Pakistan was met largely with silence, as the country appeared to seek a quiet close to a turbulent chapter. Even as the Christian woman's flight to safety in Canada made international headlines on Wednesday, Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan's government said nothing. It was left to a foreign ministry spokesman to confirm her departure on Thursday, with Mohammad Faisal telling journalists Bibi had left the country "at her own will" as he declined to say anything further. The silence echoed across the country's usually rambunctious media, with most newspapers glossing over the episode and primetime television shows offering it only a passing mention. It was a jarring contrast to the violent protests staged by hardliners against Bibi in recent years, including last October, when the Supreme Court overturned her death sentence for blasphemy. Islamists took to the streets at the time calling for mutiny in the armed forces and the assassination of the country's top judges. "The government clearly doesn't want there to be a reaction from violent mobs," said Omar Waraich, deputy South Asia director at Amnesty International. "They are worried that they will be accused of being part of what some hardliners call a Western conspiracy against Islam to punish those who stand up for the Prophet, and protect those accused of insulting the Prophet." Many of the protest ringleaders were rounded up in a government crackdown and remain in detention -- a possible reason why Bibi's flight to freedom after months spent in protective custody in Pakistan did not ignite further demonstrations. Bibi was first convicted and sentenced to death for committing blasphemy during an altercation with fellow labourers in 2009. Her case was taken up by liberal provincial governor Salmaan Taseer, who was later killed in broad daylight in Islamabad in 2011 by his own bodyguard, angered by Taseer's stance on blasphemy. Story continues The killing was followed the same year by the assassination of minority affairs minister Shahbaz Bhatti, a Christian, who had also fought to clear Bibi's name. The years-long debacle underscored the depth with which religious extremism has cut across wide sections of Pakistani society and the country's untouchable blasphemy laws have been effectively weaponized by Islamists. Blasphemy continues to be a massively incendiary charge in Pakistan, where even unproven allegations of insulting Islam can spark lynchings and targeted killings. Christians met the news of Bibi's departure with mixed emotions -- with many expressing happiness that she was free, while acknowledging that staying in the country would have likely meant a violent death at the hands of vigilantes. "It was problem for her to live here. It is obvious that she might be killed by the people. We think it is good that she has been sent [to Canada]," said Fayyaz Bhatti, a Pakistani Christian in Islamabad. "Now her life is saved and she can meet her children." By Devika Krishna Kumar and Jessica Resnick-Ault NEW YORK, May 9 (Reuters) - Occidental Petroleum chief executive Vicki Hollub was caught off guard when U.S. oil giant Chevron swooped in last month with a $33 billion offer to buy Anadarko Petroleum, the oil and gas exploration and production firm she had been wooing for nearly two years. Chevron, nearly five times larger than Occidental , appeared to have out-maneuvered its smaller rival. But on Sunday Hollub showed the fight was not over. After a whirlwind few days to raise more cash, Hollub offered a sweetened deal. By Thursday, Chevron had bowed out. In edging out Chevron in the bidding war, Hollub leaned on global relationships and knowledge forged from 35 years in the oil industry, according to about a dozen people familiar with the talks leading up to the company's latest offer. Occidental had struggled to win over Anadarko because its first public $38 billion offer of 50 percent cash and 50 percent stock, as well as previous offers made privately, required the approval of Occidental shareholders, and Anadarko was not convinced they would go for the deal, two sources familiar with the discussions told Reuters. Hollub knew she needed to substantially increase the cash offer - thereby making shareholder approval unnecessary - and moved swiftly to secure it, the sources said. She was in Paris on April 26, just two weeks after Chevron's announcement, and struck an $8.8 billion deal with French major Total SA to sell Anadarko assets her company didn't yet own. Two days later she was in Omaha, Nebraska, securing $10 billion in financing from billionaire investor Warren Buffett's Berkshire Hathaway Inc, who typically does not partner with companies pursuing unsolicited takeovers. Occidental declined to make Hollub available for an interview for this story. The combined company would establish Occidental as the largest operator in the Permian basin in west Texas and New Mexico, the heart of the U.S. shale revolution, where a boom in production has propelled the United States into becoming the world's largest oil producer. Story continues It would make Occidental the third-largest U.S. oil company with a market value of about $80 billion, dwarfed only by global giants Exxon Mobil and Chevron. "She's doing the boldest M&A thing that's happened since the '80s," said Amy Myers Jaffe, energy consultant and senior fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations. "You're having an atypical M&A battle in a very competitive space where (usually) the bigger you are, the more you're going to win." Hollub's challenge has stunned an industry where the last attempt to break up an agreed-upon deal between two U.S. oil companies was in 1984 when Texaco challenged Pennzoil's acquisition of Getty Oil. It has also angered some Occidental investors who say Hollub is overstretching the company's balance sheet in an ill-advised quest for size in a volatile industry. "Our concern is the willingness of the management team at Occidental to cut very favorable deals against the interests of shareholders on a longer-term basis," said John Linehan, portfolio manager at T. Rowe Price. T. Rowe, the sixth-largest holder of Occidental shares, announced it would vote against the board of directors on the annual shareholder meeting Friday. But such a move may be mostly symbolic. An Occidental spokesman declined to comment on the concerns but pointed to Hollub's defense of her strategy that it was better to raise cash than issue new debt. Hollub's background in the technical aspects of oil production contrasts with her predecessor, a banker and known dealmaker. She has been described as down to earth by former and current employees, differing from flamboyant energy CEOs. LONGTIME DISCUSSIONS Buying Anadarko was seen as the best way for Occidental to gain more acreage in the Permian shale basin, where it markets nearly a quarter of all barrels produced in the region. When Chevron announced a deal on April 12 to buy Anadarko, Hollub gathered the merger team. They were shocked that Anadarko had accepted a bid that was $11 per share below what Occidental had privately offered, three of the people familiar with the discussions said. "She thought, we're in it to win it. Let's make our offer public so their shareholders know what they passed up," one of the sources said. In a letter to Anadarko's board of directors on April 24, Occidental said they "were surprised and disappointed" that Anadarko had not agreed to their previous two offers in April. Anadarko executives, however, remained concerned that Occidental shareholders could scuttle the deal, leaving them without a buyer, two sources familiar with the situation said. The board of directors wanted to stick with Chevron. Just two days after sending the letter, Hollub was in Paris meeting with Total CEO Patrick Pouyanne to discuss Anadarko's African assets, according to two sources familiar with the discussions. The two already had a relationship stemming from the Dolphin Gas Project, a Middle East cross-border gas initiative where both companies have an equal share. Total had made it known to her that they coveted Anadarko's properties, including a liquefied natural gas project in Mozambique. "Vicki wanted to show that she could quickly put the cash on the table. In less than 10 days she had the cash ready," a Paris-based source said. Omaha, Nebraska was next. Buffett is known for moving quickly when a deal piques his interest, but he tends to avoid getting involved in hostile takeover bids. The meeting was set up by BofA CEO Brian Moynihan, whose bank was helping to provide financing for the Anadarko deal. Hollub later said Buffett was "warm and wonderful" in their meeting, a source familiar with the discussions said. Buffett, cash flush and on the hunt for new deals, agreed to provide $10 billion in financing in return for an 8 percent premium, a concern for dividend-focused shareholders who believe the terms are too pricey. The two deals enabled Hollub to submit a revised offer on Sunday, increasing the cash component from 50 percent to 78 percent. On Thursday, Chevron said it would collect its $1 billion termination fee and walk away from the negotiations. (Reporting By Devika Krishna Kumar and Jessica Resnick Ault; additional reporting by David Gaffen, Bate Felix, David J. French, Jennifer Hiller, Jennifer Ablan; Writing by David Gaffen; Editing by Ross Colvin) By Devika Krishna Kumar and Jessica Resnick-Ault NEW YORK (Reuters) - Occidental Petroleum chief executive Vicki Hollub was caught off guard when U.S. oil giant Chevron swooped in last month with a $33 billion offer to buy Anadarko Petroleum, the oil and gas exploration and production firm she had been wooing for nearly two years. Chevron, nearly five times larger than Occidental, appeared to have out-maneuvered its smaller rival. But on Sunday Hollub showed the fight was not over. After a whirlwind few days to raise more cash, Hollub offered a sweetened deal. By Thursday, Chevron had bowed out. In edging out Chevron, Hollub leaned on global relationships and knowledge forged from 35 years in the oil industry, according to about a dozen people familiar with the talks leading up to the company's latest offer. Occidental had struggled to win over Anadarko because its first public $38 billion offer of 50 percent cash and 50 percent stock, as well as previous offers made privately, required the approval of Occidental shareholders, and Anadarko was not convinced they would go for the deal, two sources familiar with the discussions told Reuters. Hollub knew she needed to substantially increase the cash offer - thereby making shareholder approval unnecessary - and moved swiftly to secure it, the sources said. She was in Paris on April 26, just two weeks after Chevron's announcement, and struck an $8.8 billion deal with French major Total SA to sell Anadarko assets her company didn't yet own. Two days later she was in Omaha, Nebraska, securing $10 billion in financing from billionaire investor Warren Buffett's Berkshire Hathaway Inc, who typically does not partner with companies pursuing unsolicited takeovers. Occidental declined to make Hollub available for an interview for this story. The company's shares are down 9 percent since making their offer public in late April. The combined company would establish Occidental as the largest operator in the Permian basin in west Texas and New Mexico, the heart of the U.S. shale revolution, where a boom in production has propelled the United States into becoming the world's largest oil producer. Story continues It would make Occidental the third-largest U.S. oil company with a market value of about $80 billion, dwarfed only by global giants Exxon Mobil and Chevron. "She's doing the boldest M&A thing that's happened since the '80s," said Amy Myers Jaffe, energy consultant and senior fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations. "You're having an atypical M&A battle in a very competitive space where (usually) the bigger you are, the more you're going to win." Hollub's challenge has stunned an industry where the last attempt to break up an agreed-upon deal between two U.S. oil companies was in 1984 when Texaco challenged Pennzoil's acquisition of Getty Oil. It has also angered some Occidental investors who say Hollub is overstretching the company's balance sheet in an ill-advised quest for size in a volatile industry. "Our concern is the willingness of the management team at Occidental to cut very favorable deals against the interests of shareholders on a longer-term basis," said John Linehan, portfolio manager at T. Rowe Price. T. Rowe, the sixth-largest holder of Occidental shares, announced it would vote against the board of directors on the annual shareholder meeting Friday. But such a move may be mostly symbolic. An Occidental spokesman declined to comment on the concerns but pointed to Hollub's defense of her strategy that it was better to raise cash than issue new debt. Hollub's background in the technical aspects of oil production contrasts with her predecessor, a banker and known dealmaker. She has been described as down to earth by former and current employees, differing from flamboyant energy CEOs. LONGTIME DISCUSSIONS Buying Anadarko was seen as the best way for Occidental to gain more acreage in the Permian shale basin, where it markets nearly a quarter of all barrels produced in the region. When Chevron announced a deal on April 12 to buy Anadarko, Hollub gathered the merger team. They were shocked that Anadarko had accepted a bid that was $11 per share below what Occidental had privately offered, three of the people familiar with the discussions said. "She thought, we're in it to win it. Let's make our offer public so their shareholders know what they passed up," one of the sources said. In a letter to Anadarko's board of directors on April 24, Occidental said they "were surprised and disappointed" that Anadarko had not agreed to their previous two offers in April. Anadarko executives, however, remained concerned that Occidental shareholders could scuttle the deal, leaving them without a buyer, two sources familiar with the situation said. The board of directors wanted to stick with Chevron. Just two days after sending the letter, Hollub was in Paris meeting with Total CEO Patrick Pouyanne to discuss Anadarko's African assets, according to two sources familiar with the discussions. The two already had a relationship stemming from the Dolphin Gas Project, a Middle East cross-border gas initiative where both companies have an equal share. Total had made it known to her that they coveted Anadarko's properties, including a liquefied natural gas project in Mozambique. "Vicki wanted to show that she could quickly put the cash on the table. In less than 10 days she had the cash ready," a Paris-based source said. Omaha, Nebraska was next. Buffett is known for moving quickly when a deal piques his interest, but he tends to avoid getting involved in hostile takeover bids. The meeting was set up by BofA CEO Brian Moynihan, whose bank was helping to provide financing for the Anadarko deal. Hollub later said Buffett was "warm and wonderful" in their meeting, a source familiar with the discussions said. Buffett, cash flush and on the hunt for new deals, agreed to provide $10 billion in financing in return for an 8 percent premium, a concern for dividend-focused shareholders who believe the terms are too pricey. The two deals enabled Hollub to submit a revised offer on Sunday, increasing the cash component from 50 percent to 78 percent. On Thursday, Chevron said it would collect its $1 billion termination fee and walk away from the negotiations. (For a graphic on 'Oxy-Anadarko would be third largest U.S. oil company' click https://tmsnrt.rs/2VSZ3hY) (Reporting By Devika Krishna Kumar and Jessica Resnick Ault; additional reporting by David Gaffen, Bate Felix, David J. French, Jennifer Hiller, Jennifer Ablan; Writing by David Gaffen; Editing by Ross Colvin) When the four-car caravan set out for Ontario, it was part protest, part press conference, and part act of survival. For one mother, it was also an act of remembrance. Insulin in Canada sells for a fraction roughly one-tenth of what it costs in the U.S., and these Minnesotans were determined to see whether they could get a better deal by jumping in a car and crossing the border. So, thats what they did. On Saturday, six advocates, three reporters, two photographers, and a pair of supportive parents piled into four cars, all emblazoned with hand-painted slogans of #Insulin4All, and made the pilgrimage from the Twin Cities to Fort Frances. The group also had a point to make to Washington politicians who are currently struggling to stem ever-escalating insulin prices. Can you explain to me why I would stay in the U.S. and continue to be price-gouged for $320 a vial when I can drive five hours and get it for $30? Quinn Nystrom, a caravan participant, told STAT. The only difference between us and Canada is politicians here in America have not created any solutions to lower the price of insulin. The federal government, they talk about all these laws, but they cant get them passed. The group is loosely affiliated with the diabetes advocacy organization T1International, an advocacy organization with chapters in 28 states, according to its website. An Arizona chapter of the group has recently made a trip to Mexico for the same purpose, and the groups Michigan chapter intends to make a similar trek to Canada Thursday, according to Twitter. The idea was first floated in a Facebook group by Lija Greenseid, a Minnesota native who has a daughter with type 1 diabetes and has made a habit of traveling around the world buying insulin. The pitch took some in the group by surprise multiple caravan participants told STAT they had no idea they could make that journey. But whether they knew it or not, they were carrying on a rich tradition in Americas northern states, following in the footsteps of a great many patients who trek to Canada to buy cheaper drugs. Former Minnesota Sen. Mark Dayton, a Democrat, donated his entire congressional salary in the early 2000s to bankroll pilgrimages for this very purpose. Story continues The trip itself went off without a hitch. The group hit a brief stumble at the border, not because they were openly importing insulin, but because a journalist accompanying them had filmed the border crossing. And after a five-hour journey, the group walked into a Shoppers pharmacy, and walked out minutes later with arms full of insulin. Im sure it was [worth] $10,000 list price in the U.S., that we ended up getting for like $1,000, Greenseid told STAT. Most of the caravan purchased Novo Nordisks NovoLog, which is known in Canada as NovoRapid, for roughly $30 a pop. The same drug retails for $289.36 in the U.S., according to a Novo Nordisk spokesperson. There was this incredible sense of freedom and relief, said Nystrom, who is enrolled in a high-deductible health insurance plan and typically racks up more than $7,000 in out-of-pocket medical expenses each year. Just the thought that I dont have to keep going to a pharmacy and being price-gouged and putting that on my credit card and feeling like I wont keep going into debt. The high prices have pushed the 33-year-old further than a debt scare, too. Shes had to ask her parents for help, considered applying for a second job at Starbucks for the companys health insurance, and even contemplated marrying a friend for his health coverage. Thats how bad it is in America: a medical marriage, Nystrom remarked. I would really love to marry somebody for love. Read more: I dont know how you people sleep at night: Visibly irate lawmakers blast pharma, PBMs over insulin prices For Nicole Smith-Holt, the motivation was different. She doesnt have diabetes, but she purchased a vial of Sanofis Lantus nonetheless. It was the same insulin Smith-Holts son Alec took before he aged off her insurance and quietly began rationing his insulin, only to die less than one month later. Crossing the border was always a thought for Smith-Holt, but she was under the impression it was illegal. It made me so angry that this was not a publicly known option at the time, Smith-Holt told STAT. Two years ago I could have made this trip and Alec would still be here. The one vial, which cost Smith-Holt roughly $60, now sits in her refrigerator. She is determined to keep that tiny vial properly stored, so she can gift it to another person with diabetes struggling to afford their insulin. If it expires, she will add it to Alecs memorial. Read more: Everyone is at fault: With insulin prices skyrocketing, theres plenty of blame to go around This isnt the last time these Minnesotans are likely to cross the border on their search for cheaper insulin. Theyve already made public pleas to Minnesota Sens. Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith, former Sen. Al Franken, and even former CMS administrator and Minnesota native Andy Slavitt all Democrats to sponsor a bus, a la Sen. Daytons pilgrimages nearly 20 years ago. And theyre not waiting for the senatorial sponsorship to come through: Nystrom is already in talks with a Michigan chapter of T1International to organize a caravan this summer to London, Ontario. The city holds a special significance: On that trip, the caravan will make the trek to the home of Frederick Banting, the man who, on Oct. 31, 1920, awoke from his bed on the second floor of that very house and jotted down the idea that eventually led him to discover insulin. The same man who sold the drugs patent for $1, with the hopes it would never be out of reach for those who need it. Constellation Brands (NYSE: STZ) has good reason to be proud of its beer portfolio. Consisting mostly of the Corona and the Modelo families of beer, it has delivered 36 consecutive quarters of growth that extends back to the beginning of the company's 2011 fiscal year. With the beer industry generally in decline, and the craft brewery segment posting anemic numbers, Constellation's double-digit net sales growth in fiscal 2019 was a standout performance. Its portfolio was responsible for 40% of the growth experienced by the U.S. high-end category and 100% of the growth in the import segment. Yet even as it buttons up its premium wine and spirits business and takes a flier on marijuana with an investment in Canopy Growth, Constellation Brands continues to focus on beer -- and rightly so. Three men laugh while drinking beer Image source: Getty Images. Mas cervezas Constellation's net sales for beer last quarter were up 9%, mostly in line with the 10% growth realized in the year-ago quarter, though down sequentially from the 16% gain in the third quarter. For the coming year, Constellation expects beer sales to grow 7% to 9%, and it plans on increasing how much it spends on marketing to 9.5% of net sales. CEO Bill Newlands said, "There are very few industry segments where this level of growth has been sustained over this length of time." It's even more notable due to the weakness in craft beer, though it's definitely not a symptom spread evenly across the industry. According to the Brewers Association, the industry's trade group, import beer sales grew 3.6% in 2018 to 35.6 million barrels, representing about 18.5% of the total production of the entire beer industry. Year Import Sales Volume in Barrels Growth (Decline) 2013 27,539,358 (0.6%) 2014 29,430,185 6.9% 2015 31,245,124 6.2% 2016 33,366,352 6.8% 2017 34,428,490 3.2% 2018 35,660,588 3.6% Data source: Brewers Association. Story continues What's not reflected in that table is that Mexican beer is the driving force behind the growth in imports. Industry research firm IRI says Mexican imports account for 20% of the beer category but make up 72.3% of all import sales, and the segment's growth is expected to continue for at least the next five years. Carrying the market Constellation's Corona is the leading U.S. import beer, with almost $2.4 billion in sales last year, followed by its Modelo brand, which hit almost $2 billion. The 135 million cases sold in 2018 between the two brands is almost twice as many as the next eight brands combined. Hand holding glass of four corners beer Four Corners Brewing loteria-style branding plays on the fast-growing Mexican beer segment of the industry. Image source: Four Corners Brewing. And Constellation raised its bet on Mexican beer with its purchase last June of Texas-based Four Corners Brewing, which markets its brews with loteria-style branding (loteria is a Mexican bingo-style game). It may catch on easier than Constellation's previous acquisitions of more-traditional brewers Ballast Point Brewing and Funky Buddha, whose growth seems to have stalled. With beer generating almost two-thirds of Constellation Brands' revenue, making a bigger investment in the category that further celebrates Hispanic culture -- and is the source of the beer industry's strength -- seems like a safe bet. More From The Motley Fool Rich Duprey has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool recommends Constellation Brands. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. Donald Trump. Photo: Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images At his rally yesterday, President Trump regaled his supporters with the comical image of young Pete Buttigieg trying to conduct foreign policy. We have a young man, Buttigieg, Trump mocked, Hes got a great chance, doesnt he? Hell be great, representing us against President Xi of China thatll be great. I want to be in that room, I want to watch that one. To the president and his supporters, it is self-evident that effective foreign policy conduct is a function of what Trump often calls central casting, or a stereotypical set of superficial traits. Trump is a hefty old white man who talks tough and therefore can be trusted on the world stage. Somewhat paradoxically, though, Trump is not a war hawk. His deepest belief is that he can leverage threatening and sometimes wild rhetoric into bringing adversaries to the bargaining table. During the campaign, Trump promised, we will stop racing to topple foreign regimes that we know nothing about, that we shouldnt be involved with. But he is proving over and over he cannot attempt to execute, let alone accomplish, his own ideas. Trump quite literally does not know what he is doing on foreign policy. The Washington Post has an amazing account of the presidents growing dissatisfaction with his own policy on Venezuela. Trumps position, driven by National Security Adviser John Bolton, revolved around loudly promoting regime change and attacking the left-wing authoritarian Maduro regime. The strategy conveniently dovetailed with the administrations domestic message of attacking socialism, which it absurdly links to the Democratic party agenda. The trouble, as the Post reports, is that it isnt working and Trump distrusts his own advisers. Trump actually admires dictators, especially ones who are willing to shed a lot of blood in order to maintain power. Trump has said that Maduro is a tough cookie and that aides should not have led him to believe that the Venezuelan leader could be ousted last week, the Post reports. Trump also discussed Venezuela with Vladimir Putin during their long celebratory post-Mueller phone call. Putin, of course, has decidedly un-Bolton-like views on the Venezuela question. And Trump probably trusts Putin more than Bolton an instinct that in this particular case probably leads to a better policy outcome. The dark comedy of Trumps current predicament is thrown into starker relief if we recall the process that led to Boltons appointment. Trump initially hesitated to appoint Bolton in part because of his negative reaction to Mr. Boltons walrus-style mustache. But then the president was ultimately drawn to Bolton, in part because he was impressed by his many appearances on Fox News. Central casting giveth, and central casting taketh away. What about the enormous ideological gap between Trumps promise to avoid regime change, and Boltons manic obsession with toppling regimes all over the planet? The president smoothed it over by getting Bolton to promise he would not start any wars. Now it turns out that the advisers who love starting wars are in fact trying to start wars. The presidents dissatisfaction has crystallized around [Bolton] and what Trump has groused is an interventionist stance at odds with his view that the United States should stay out of foreign quagmires, the Post reports, Trump has said in recent days that Bolton wants to get him into a war a comment that he has made in jest in the past but that now betrays his more serious concerns. Somehow, securing a Bolton promise not to start wars did not actually eliminate his deep-seated ideological impulses. Who could have guessed? Trump also made a comment at his rally about Iran that suggests a similar failure to understand what his own policy actually is. The Obama administrations nuclear policy deal was based on the premise that preventing a nuclear weapon would take priority over all the other issues dividing the two countries. The U.S. would get Iran to abandon its nuclear ambitions, but in return would de-emphasize its conflict in other areas. Republican Middle East hawks opposed the deal because they didnt want to make Irans nuclear ambitions the entire focus. They want to keep the pressure on all the other bad things Iran was doing. Getting Trump to cancel the Iran nuclear deal was childs play. The president automatically believes he could improve on any deal made by anyone in general, and that anything Obama did in particular was bad. Trump was reportedly influenced by images played on loop on Fox News of pallets of cash being delivered to Tehran as part of Obamas very weak deal. But when Trump announced his position, the speech he read very clearly endorsed the neoconservative line on Iran. His administration did not want to simply stop Irans nuclear program. It wanted to confront a wide range of Iranian behavior. Our policy is based on a clear-eyed assessment of the Iranian dictatorship, its sponsorship of terrorism, and its continuing aggression in the Middle East and all around the world, he read, The nuclear deal threw Irans dictatorship a political and economic lifeline, providing urgently needed relief from the intense domestic pressure the sanctions had created. It also gave the regime an immediate financial boost and over $100 billion dollars its government could use to fund terrorism. Trump promised his policy would counter the regimes destabilizing activity and support for terrorist proxies in the region and place additional sanctions on the regime to block their financing of terror. This may not be the smartest policy toward Iran, but it is a policy toward Iran. It is not clear, however, that Trump understands this is the policy he endorsed. At his rally last night, he said he wanted to sit down with the regime. We just dont want them to have nuclear weapons, he said, thats all we want. What hes describing is not his administrations stance. It is the Obama administrations stance. His own administrations policy has been driven by Bolton, who again is provoking a military conflict that Trump probably does not want to happen. The president, again, seems genuinely confused about what his own policy actually is or why it is heading in a direction he does not seem to support. All he knows is that the idea of having foreign policy run by a president who doesnt look like Trump would be ridiculous. GLYNDON, Minn. (AP) Vice President Mike Pence said Thursday the Trump administration is working "literally hour by hour" to reach a trade agreement with China, as the deadline loomed on a U.S. threat to raise tariffs on Chinese imports. Flanked by farmers and ranchers invited to a northwestern Minnesota farm to talk about the new North American trade agreement, Pence told reporters he was hopeful a deal with China could be reached before 12:01 a.m. Friday. However, he said the U.S. is going to "continue to stand firm" to reset an unbalanced trading relationship. Should the U.S. follow through and raise tariffs on $200 billion in Chinese imports from 10 to 25%, Pence said "you can very confident" that the administration is going to "look for ways" to provide additional support to farmers affected by the trade dispute. He was not specific. Pence changed the subject from China to "the good news," referring to the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement, or USMCA. He spent most of his one-on-one time with the friendly audience gathered at R&J Johnson Farms promoting the deal and telling producers that Congress needs to act on it. Pence called on Minnesota Democratic Rep. Collin Peterson, chairman of the House Agriculture Committee, to help persuade Speaker Nancy Pelosi to put the USMCA to a vote. The vice president said it's sure to pass. Peterson put out a statement before Pence's comments stating he is the most senior Democrat who supports USMCA. A spokeswoman for Peterson did not immediately return a phone message seeking reaction on Pence's plea for assistance. "Farmers need certainty and getting USMCA done is one part of that," Peterson said. Jake Hein, 29, one of the attendees at Thursday's event, said farming has been in his family for five generations, tracing back to the original farm in Norway. His wife, Christina, 28, is expecting in October and he's hoping by that time he won't have to worry about selling crops from his Audubon, Minnesota farm. Story continues "I'm thankful the vice president came here to talk about something that is just extremely important to us in rural Minnesota," Jake Hein told The Associated Press after talking with Pence. "If we can get the USMCA ratified it would really go a long way toward making our farms profitable again." One subject that didn't come up Thursday was Trump's tariffs on steel and aluminum, which Minnesota Farm Bureau President Kevin Papp calls a "tax at the border" that is "killing us in agriculture." Pence was scheduled later Thursday to give a speech to workers at Gerdau Ameristeel, one of the mills that Trump's tariffs are meant to help. Robert Kudrle, an international trade specialist at the University of Minnesota, said it's "tricky business" for Pence to be selling a package that includes a 25 percent tariff on steel and a 10 percent tariff on aluminum. The Mexicans and Canadians don't like it, nor do most Republicans in Congress, Kudrle said. "The fact that it is still there is something (Pence) can talk to the steelworkers about," said Kudrle, who added that some of his audiences have no clue about tariffs because they were "kind of a thing of the past until a few years ago." U.S. Rep. Pete Stauber, a Republican whose district includes northeast Minnesota's Iron Range, said the steel tariffs have stopped countries like China from dumping steel into the market, noting that U.S. shipments went up 5 percent last year while steel imports dropped by 4 million tons. At the same time, he said the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement, or USMCA, will allow farmers to export more products to Canada. "President Trump and his administration is not trying to pit the farmers against the steel workers or the manufacturers against the steel workers at all," Stauber said. "Our Minnesota farmers not only feed our Minnesotans and this country, they also feed the world and we want to make sure that we give them the opportunity to move their products across this globe in a free and fair way." The archbishop of Philadelphia denounced Pennsylvania state Rep. Brian Sims for videos he shared on social media of himself confronting protesters outside a Planned Parenthood, calling his behavior "unbecoming of an elected official." "Over the past few days, videos have gone viral on social media featuring State Representative Brian Sims aggressively harassing young and elderly women who were peacefully praying outside of a Planned Parenthood Clinic in Philadelphia," Archbishop Charles Chaput said in a statement Wednesday. "His actions were unbecoming of an elected official." Planned Parenthood confrontations: Pa. Democrat Brian Sims defiant amid uproar over 'harassing' of anti-abortion protesters Sims, a Democrat who represents a district in Philadelphia, posted two videos on social media of his confrontations with protesters at Planned Parenthood Southeastern Pennsylvania. In the first, he approached a group of about five protesters he said had been "shaming young girls" in front of the entrance to the clinic. "A bunch of white people, standing out in front of Planned Parenthood shaming people. There is nothing Christian about what you're doing," Sims told them. He offered $100 to anyone who could identify the girls within the group. Sims shared that video to his Facebook page on April 18, but removed it sometime between Tuesday and Thursday. In the second video, Sims approached a woman who appeared to be holding a rosary and avoiding the camera. He referred to her as "an old white lady telling people what to do with their bodies" and berated her for more than seven minutes for "shaming people for something that they have a constitutional right to do." "What you're doing here is disgusting. This is wrong. You have no business being out here," he told her. He accused her of being engaged in "a racist act of judgment." In that video, Sims also criticized the woman for her Catholic faith. Story continues "Shame on you," he said, marveling at the "amount of mental gymnastics it must take to think that you have a right to tell a woman what's right for her body" and yet "support a faith that has molested children across the planet." Push back against Planned Parenthood protestors, PLEASE! They prey on young women, they use white privilege, & shame. Theyre racist, classist, bigots who NEED & DESERVE our righteous opposition. Push back, please! #YouAreStrongEnough https://t.co/rYQOiAhC0D Brian Sims (@BrianSimsPA) May 2, 2019 Chaput accused Sims of trampling on the rights of the protesters. "There is much bitter irony that he claims to be a champion for the rights of all women yet he trampled on the rights of others and disgracefully shamed them in public," Philadelphia's archbishop said of the videos. "It was particularly disdainful that he offered a bounty for the identity and home addresses of three young ladies in order to encourage protests at their homes." The archbishop said the United States was "founded on democratic principles" and that elected officials should represent all of their constituents. "Representative Sims spoke often of shame and there was plenty of that to be found in his actions, which demonstrated a complete disregard for civility and basic human decency," Chaput said. Sims who said "Planned Parenthood protesters are scum!" in a May 2 tweet initially responded to the outraged reaction to his videos on Twitter by declaring, "Bring it, Bible Bullies! You are bigots, sexists, and misogynists and I see right through your fake morals and your broken values." Bring it, Bible Bullies! You are bigots, sexists, and misogynists and I see right through your fake morals and your broken values. #BeReal https://t.co/kmDsrQsMmN Brian Sims (@BrianSimsPA) May 5, 2019 Sims later posted a video in which he confessed that he had been "aggressive" and explained that his actions had been driven by his experiences seeing anti-abortion rights activists harass women trying to enter Planned Parenthood facilities. "I know that two wrongs don't make a right and I can do better, and I will do better for the women of Pennsylvania," Sims said. I will fiercely protect a womans right to make the best choices for her health & her body, unimpeded. I also know that two wrongs dont make a right, especially on the front lines of a civil rights battle. I can do better, and I will do better, for the women of Pennsylvania. pic.twitter.com/jURL1UX9qE Brian Sims (@BrianSimsPA) May 7, 2019 The anti-abortion group Live Action has called for a rally to be held Friday at the same Planned Parenthood where Sims tried to drive protesters away. In his statement, Chaput encouraged "broad participation in this peaceful initiative" and included a link to the event organizers. "Let us meet the hateful actions of Representative Sims with the love of Christ and let us fervently pray for respect for life from conception to natural death," Chaput said. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Philadelphia Archbishop slams Pennsylvania state Rep. Brian Sims who confronted abortion protesters Manila (AFP) - Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte's unpredictable speeches frequently contain bombshell pronouncements, but the surprise this time came in the form of a cockroach ambling along the leader's shoulder. The bug popped up on Duterte as he was extolling the virtues of the candidates he has endorsed in next week's midterm polls at a campaign rally late Wednesday. An aide tried and failed to scrape the critter away with some papers, but Duterte brushed it aside as the government broadcast cut to a smiling but bemused audience in the central city of Bohol. Duterte, who was nearing the end of his roughly 90-minute address, joked that the insect belongs to the opposition party. The leader's critics quickly took to Twitter to mock his close encounter with the roach, which is more frequently seen scurrying over refuse. "The cockroach must have realized that duterte is the trashiest trash it has ever seen," wrote @andy_crush. "And I never thought I would say this but GOOD JOB EXPOSING THAT TRASH, DEAR COCKROACH," @keeyaaraaa posted. Duterte is on the campaign trail to rally support for his candidates in next week's midterm polls, in which some 18,000 seats ranging from local councils to the upper house Senate are up for grabs. Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip have officially welcomed the latest addition to the royal family. In a photo posted to the Sussex Royal Instagram account, the royal couple can be seen meeting Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's newborn son, Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor for the first time. He is their eighth great-grandchild. SEE ALSO: Does the royal baby look more like Prince Harry or Meghan Markle? The black-and-white photo taken by royal photographer Chris Allerton shows the Duchess of Sussex holding her two-day-old son as mom, Doria Ragland, husband, Prince Harry, Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip all look on with big smiles on their faces. "The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are pleased to announce they have named their first born child: Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor," the caption reads. "This afternoon Their Royal Highnesses introduced Her Majesty The Queen to her eighth great-grandchild at Windsor Castle. The Duke of Edinburgh and The Duchess mother were also present for this special occasion." The meeting came just after Meghan and Harry introduced their first child to the world during an official photo call at Windsor Castle. "We just bumped into the Duke [Prince Philip] as we were walking by, which was so nice," Meghan said during the brief press interview. "So it will be a nice moment to introduce the baby to more family, and my mom is with us as well. So it has been a really -- here we go!" Story continues She also thanked the international public for their support and well-wishes, saying, "Thank you, everybody, for the well-wishes and the kindness. It just means so much." While Her Majesty and her husband have officially now met the royal family's newest member, Harry's father, Prince Charles, and stepmom, Duchess Camilla, have yet to meet the adorable little boy, as they're still on an official royal tour in Berlin. SEE ALSO: Meghan Markle thanks the public for its 'kindness' after royal baby birth It's also unclear if brother Prince William and sister-in-law Kate Middleton have met Archie yet. The couple made an unannounced appearance in London on Tuesday, where they expressed excitement over meeting their new nephew. "Obviously thrilled, absolutely thrilled, and looking forward to seeing them in the next few days when things have quietened down," William said. "I'm very pleased and glad to welcome my own brother into the sleep deprivation society that is parenting." "Plenty of advice, plenty of advice, but no I wish him all the best and I hope the next few days they can settle down and enjoy having a newborn in their family and the joys that come with that," William said when asked if he had any advice for his brother. "It's such a special time, obviously with Louis and Charlotte just having had their birthdays it's such a great time of year to have a baby, spring is in the air," Kate added. "As William said, we're looking forward to meeting him and finding out what his name's going to be, so it's really exciting for both of them and we wish them all the best. These next few weeks are always a bit daunting the first time round so we wish them all the best." Piers Morgan calls royal baby Archie Mountbatten-Windsor's name 'silly' (Jeff Spicer/Getty Images) Piers Morgan isnt one to hold back on letting the world know how he really feels about anything and everything. Now, hes taken aim at new parents Meghan Markle and Prince Harry for calling their son Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor. He also claimed that the name isnt in-keeping with the pairs calls for diversity within the royal family because its the most popular white middle-class name. Read more: Meghan Markle and Prince Harry name their son Archie Taking to Twitter, the controversial Good Morning Britain host wrote: So the royal couple, in a striking blow for diversity & feminism, have given their son one of the most popular white middle-class first names, Archie. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex welcomed their first child into the world at 05:26 on 6 May 2019. (Photo by Dominic Lipinski - WPA Pool/Getty Images) He didnt stop there either. According to Morgan, the royal babys second name was equally as laughable when it comes to originality. [His] second name, Harrison, that was chosen because it stands for 'Harry's son' (I'm serious..). Hilarious, the 54-year-old added. Read more: Danny Baker apologises for racist tweet about the Royal baby When a fellow social media user innocently replied to his tweets saying that they liked the name and that the Duke and Duchess of Sussex were never going to be traditional, Morgan confessed to liking the name Archie but calling him Harrison 'because he's Harry's son' is just silly. Markle and Prince Harry welcomed their first child on Monday 6 May. They elected to spend the first two days as new parents away from the media spotlight before presenting him to the public at Windsor Castle on Wednesday 8 May. On that same day, they took Archie Harrison to meet his great-grandparents Prince Philip and Queen Elizabeth II. I like 'Archie', but calling him Harrison 'because he's Harry's son' is just silly. https://t.co/kxfukU6tjS Piers Morgan (@piersmorgan) May 8, 2019 Talking about the new addition to their family, Markle said: "It's magical, pretty amazing. I mean I have the best two guys in the world. I'm really happy. He has the sweetest temperament and he's really calm and been the dream. It's been a special few days." A giant model of Luxo Jr., Pixar's iconic desktop lamp mascot, is seen at its campus in Emeryville, California, on November 29, 2016. (FRANKIE TAGGART/AFP/Getty Images) This week Disney confirmed the release dates of Pixars next six animated feature films. Toy Story 4 is first up to bat, hitting UK cinemas in 21 June, 2019, followed by fantasy adventure Onward - starring Tom Holland, Chris Pratt, Octavia Spencer, and Julia Louis-Dreyfuss - arriving in March next year. The studios next four films, which remain a mystery, are scheduled to arrive in June 2020, June 2021, March 2022, and June 2022 - and Toy Story 4 producer Jonas Rivera has promised these as-yet-unannounced titles are insane. Read more: Why make Toy Story 4? Talking to Yahoo ahead of the release of the fourth Toy Story film - which marks the last sequel currently in development at the San Francisco-based animation powerhouse - Rivera said the mood at Pixar is reminiscent of the time before the release of Toy Story in 1995. It does [feel like a pre-Toy Story Pixar], Rivera told us. I've been there a long time, since the first one. And it does, man. It feels like there are so many talented people that I work with, and they're all rising up, and they're doing a little more. And there's new original films [coming], stuff that you won't even believe, it's just so insane. Of the first ten films released by Pixar between Toy Story in 1995 and Up in 2009, only one of them was a sequel - 1999s hugely successful Toy Story 2. The studio was synonymous with originality with each new film markedly different from the last. However, of the last ten Pixar films, six have been sequels. But Rivera promises the studio is over its sequel addiction. Read more: Toy Story 4 to have emotional ending [The mood at Pixar] has echoes of how it felt [back then] and I always remember the trio of Monsters Inc, Finding Nemo, and Incredibles, where each one of those felt insanely different, and unrecognisable to the other. Tim Allen, left, and Tom Hanks arrive at the world premiere of Toy Story 3 on Sunday June 13, 2010 at The El Capitan Theater in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Katy Winn) And they were all first time directors that have gone on to be wildly successful. And there are echoes of that, in my opinion, that it feels like that's what we've got coming. Story continues Pixars Brian Fee (Cars 3 co-director], Mark Andrews (Brave co-director), Domee Shi (Bao director) and Pete Docter (Disney CCO and director of Inside Out, Up, and Monsters Inc) are all reportedly working on new Pixar films, but what they are is anybodys guess. Pete Docter, left, and Jonas Rivera are seen at the Los Angeles premiere of "Inside Out" at the El Capitan Theatre on Monday, June 8, 2015 (Photo by Dan Steinberg/Invision/AP) Onward writer-director Dan Scanlon told fans at Disneys D23 Expo his film will tell the story of two teenage elf brothers whose father died when they were too young to remember him. But thanks to the little magic still left in the world, the boys embark on a quest that will allow them a chance to spend one last magical day with their father. Its said to be set in a modern fantasy world, populated by fairies, trolls, elves, and unicorns, and no humans. One thing that can be relied on is that Pixar will continue to advance the technology used to make its films. Rivera says the rendering computers used to make Toy Story 4 could render every single frame of Toy Story 1 faster than we could watch it. Read more: Pixar scenes that always make you cry You could render every shot in that movie in less than 90 minutes. It's absurd how far it's come. And I think we tend to eat those gains creatively. Every time we sort of reinvent the way to render, then we just do more creatively. Right now, on a shot of Toy Story 4, the complexities are such that there are shots in there that take 60 hours to 150 hours a frame to render. Toy Story 4 is in cinemas from 21 June. Pixel 3a XL Google's launch Tuesday of the $399 Pixel 3a and $479 Pixel 3a XL smartphones only seven months after the release of the pricier Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL handsets likely has you asking: "Why would I want to spend at least $400 more for Google's premium flagships, when these latest mid-priced devices offer so many overlapping features?" The answer, at least for most of you, is you wouldn't. Google's latest products:Cheaper Pixels, Android Q, smartphone addiction tools, Nest Hub Max What the rather steep climb up to $799 (for the Pixel 3) or $899 (for the 3 XL) buys you is a device with a better build quality and, yes, some nice extra features, though given the price differential features you can probably live without. Google is also offering generous trade-in deals on the new Pixels if you swap in an older iPhone or devices from other brands. For example, an iPhone SE lowers the price of the Pixel 3a by an estimated $250. If you trade in the more recent iPhone X, you'll get about $418 off the Pixel 3a. As always, trade-in values are determined by the condition and configuration of your current device. Here's a deeper dive into Pixel 3 models versus Pixel the 3a devices: The basics There's a whole lot of sameness here, even down to the choice of three colors. The Pixel 3s, as well as the newbie devices, come in what Google's marketers refer to as Just Black and Clearly White. OK, there's a slight departure on the third option: the Pixel 3a also comes in Purple-ish, the Pixel 3 in Not Pink. All the phones have 4GB of RAM memory and start at 64GB of storage. On the Pixel 3 and 3 XL, you can spend more for a 128GB storage option that is not available on the new phones. For sure, with the more robust Qualcomm Snapdragon 845 on the Pixel 3s compared to the Snapdragon 670 on the 3a models, the new phones aren't as snappy. But again, the step up for the average consumer may not justify the expenditure. Story continues There isn't a huge variation in weight or size either. And for better or worse-Pixel designs won't win any beauty contests they look much the same, too. Both rely on fingerprint sensors; there is no facial recognition. On all the devices, you can squeeze the sides to summon the Google Assistant. And, of course, both currently run the Android Pie flavor of Google's mobile operating system; eventually (unless you choose to try the beta software in the interim) they'll run the upcoming Android Q. Build quality The body of the latest phones are made of a lightweight durable polycarbonate unibody design versus the Pixel 3s premium metal frame and glass back, so there is something of a trade-off there. The glass on the front Corning's Gorilla Glass on the Pixel 3 models versus something called Dragontrail from Asahi on the 3a may be less superior, though I'm not sure your average buyer will notice. And only time will tell if any meaningful problems surface. The screen has certainly held up fine on the few days I've had with the devices. Cameras The Pixel 3s earned high marks from reviewers, me included, for its excellent camera. And if if the camera is what attracted you to the Pixel 3s in the first place, the good news is these latest devices pretty much match the quality. Features that debuted on the Pixel 3 such as the machine learning driven Top Shot are found here, too. That's where the phone, at least on some pictures, does its best to surface the best pic among a burst of images automatically captured in theory, one where everyones smiling or otherwise properly posing And yes, there's Night Sight, which as the name suggests is all about capturing images in dim light without a flash. It also has Portrait mode on the front and rear cameras. There are a few photo tradeoffs. On the Pixel 3a, you don't get the second wide-angle selfie camera that is on the Pixel 3. And while the 3s and 3as let you upload images for free to Google Photos, you can do so at the original (better) quality on the earlier models. Battery Google says the battery on the new phones will deliver up to seven hours of use on a 15-minute charge and last 30 hours on a full charge with a battery system that is said to learn your favorite apps and prioritize power for the ones you use most frequently. In fact, specs-wise, the new phones have batteries rated a bit higher. (I haven't conducted any formal tests.) Google's Rick Osterloh speaks about the Pixel 3a phone during the keynote address of the Google I/O conference in Mountain View, Calif., Tuesday, May 7, 2019. Call Screen One of the features that generated the most attention on the Pixel 3 is called Call Screen, which is meant to turn the table on all those telemarketer calls. When a call comes in from a number you dont recognize, you can tap a screen call button that gives an automated response to the caller that tells them you are using a screening service from Google. Wireless charging Put this in the "you've got to give up something to get something" category. The Pixel 3a and 3a XL lack the feature that the Pixel 3 and 3 XL have. Yes, wireless charging is convenient. So if it is important to you, this one of those considerations that will make you pay more. Water resistance See above because this is another feature that requires the step up in premium. You're not going to swim with any of these devices. So while you'd rather have the feature than not, this may be a trade-off that, well, isn't that much of a trade-off. The audio jack is shown on a Google Pixel 3a XL phone at the Google I/O conference in Mountain View, Calif., Tuesday, May 7, 2019. Headphone jack Score one for the new phones. Google, even on its mid-priced devices brought back the standard 3.55mm headphone jack that disappeared on its more expensive Pixels (not to mention rival phones like the iPhone). For those of us who still use corded headphones, at least some of the time, this is a welcome, and even somewhat unexpected, development. Bottom line In a side by side tale of the tape comparison, the Pixel 3 is a better phone than the Pixel 3a. But the 3a represents the far better value. Email: ebaig@usatoday.com; Follow @edbaig on Twitter This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Pixel 3a vs. Pixel 3: Great camera for the price makes Google's $399 phone the better buy BELFAST, May 9 (Reuters) - Police investigating last month's murder of journalist Lyra McKee in Northern Ireland arrested four people in Londonderry on Thursday under terrorist legislation, authorities said. McKee's killing by an Irish nationalist militant during a riot in the city sparked outrage in the province where a 1998 peace deal mostly ended three decades of sectarian violence that cost the lives of some 3,600 people. Four males aged 15, 18, 38 and 51 were arrested in Londonderry on Thursday morning in connection with violence on the evening McKee was shot dead, the Police Service of Northern Ireland said in a statement. "As part of this morning's operation detectives carried out searches at four houses in the city and arrested four people in connection with the violence which was orchestrated on the streets of Creggan on the evening of Lyra McKees murder," Detective Superintendent Jason Murphy said. The New IRA, one of a small number of groups that oppose the peace accord, has said one of its members shot the 29-year-old reporter dead when opening fire on police during a riot McKee was watching. The killing, which followed a large car bomb in Londonderry in January that police also blamed on the New IRA, has raised fears that small marginalized militant groups are exploiting a political vacuum in the province and tensions caused by Britain's decision to leave the European Union. (Reporting by Amanda Ferguson and Conor Humphries; Editing by Andrew Cawthorne) Inciter-in-chief. Photo: Scott Olson/Getty Images Last month, a militia came upon 200 migrants near the U.S. southern border and detained them at gunpoint. In a widely viewed video of the encounter, heavily armed men loom over huddled women and children, their faces illuminated by wandering flashlights. Days later, Steven Brant (code name Viper) was out on patrol with that same militia, the United Constitutional Patriots, when they witnessed another, smaller group of migrants crossing into U.S. territory. In a police report obtained by investigative reporter Ken Klippenstein, Brant described what happened next: Brant told police that another member, identified as Armando Delgado Gonzalez, then handed him a handgun and ran to his vehicle and grabbed an AR-15. Brant said he gave Gonzalez back his gun and told him to put the weapons away since they were only to observe and report activity. Gonzalez (allegedly) begged to differ. Why are we just apprehending them and not lining them up and shooting them, he asked Brant, according to the police report. We have to go back to Hitler days and put them all in a gas chamber. This armed militia ILLEGALLY captured hundreds of migrants at the US border, and live-streamed it pic.twitter.com/5MEB8mPihs Vocativ (@vocativ) April 27, 2019 The president received a similar suggestion at a rally in Panama City, Florida, Wednesday night. Donald Trump was praising the bravery of Americas border security people who, in his telling, are facing down 15,000 people marching up when he reminded his audience, We dont let them and we cant let them use weapons. We cant. Other countries do. We cant. I would never do that. But how do we stop these people? Shoot them! one rallygoer shouted in reply. The crowd exploded in laughter. The president grinned and shook his head. Only in the panhandle you can get away with that statement, folks, Trump said to applause. At his rally tonight, Trump says the government is unable to violently attack immigrants, someone in the crowd shouted "Shoot them!" The crowd & Trump erupt in laughter & cheers. Trump says, "Only in the panhandle can you get away with that statement."pic.twitter.com/SgQd2OH9ti jordan (@JordanUhl) May 9, 2019 The president has never explicitly endorsed vigilante violence against asylum seekers who illegally cross the southern border. And in his remarks Wednesday night, he ostensibly disavowed the use of weapons against migrants. But he also made a point of noting that other countries do use weapons in such circumstances, suggested that there might be no other way to stop these people, and declined to explicitly condemn the idea that somebody should shoot them. Meanwhile, long before last night, Trump had already given our nations most trigger-happy patriots reason to interpret we cant use weapons as but perhaps you should. In fact, the presidents decision to brand the recent wave of Central American asylum seekers as a pack of very tough fighters, unknown Middle Easterners, and violent criminals perpetrating an invasion of the United States has directly inspired the recent upsurge in vigilante patrols at the southern border. As the Washington Post reported in November: Gun-carrying civilian groups and border vigilantes have heard a call to arms in President Trumps warnings about threats to American security posed by caravans of Central American migrants moving through Mexico. Theyre packing coolers and tents, oiling rifles and tuning up aerial drones, with plans to form caravans of their own and trail American troops to the border. Well observe and report, and offer aid in any way we can, said Shannon McGauley, a bail bondsman in the Dallas suburbs who is president of the Texas Minutemen. Around the same time, Trump advised the troops that he had dispatched to the border to meet any rock throwing from migrants with gunfire. They want to throw rocks at our military, our military fights back, Trump told reporters. I told them to consider it a rifle. When they throw rocks like what they did to the Mexican military and police I say consider it a rifle. His administration then formally authorized troops to use lethal force against migrants if necessary. Nonetheless, in March, the president informed Sean Hannity that legal limitations on the governments authority to use violence against migrants was undermining efforts to beat back the invasion. Now we are capturing these people, Trump said. We are getting them but we dont do it like other countries. Other countries stand there with machine guns, ready to fire. The president then clarified that he wouldnt want to do that yet immediately added, Its a very effective way of doing it. Here's the President of the United States saying he isn't going to shoot undocumented immigrants but shooting undocumented immigrants would be very effective pic.twitter.com/wWg2ThaP56 Andrew Lawrence (@ndrew_lawrence) March 28, 2019 To review: Trumps decision to brand Central American families fleeing adverse conditions in their home countries as an army of invading criminals has inspired armed vigilantes to flock to the border; these vigilantes have been illegally detaining migrants at gunpoint; some militia members are reportedly contemplating executing detained migrants en masse; and the president nevertheless keeps saying that shooting border crossers would be an effective way of deterring a major threat to the United States and that he actually cannot think of any other effective means of doing so under our nations existing laws. Three months ago, a Democratic congresswoman suggested that Congresss attempts to suppress criticism of Israel were all about AIPACs Benjamins. Ilhan Omar did not utter a single disparaging word about Jews. She did not lament the influence of Jewish money in politics. She merely accused a lobby that seeks to influence U.S. policy toward Israel in part, by organizing donor networks that back sympathetic candidates of being good at its job. But violent anti-Semites exist. And the notion that Jews control U.S. policy with their money is something that many anti-Semites believe. And so Omars decision to (somewhat reductively) attribute all pro-Likud agitation in Congress to a predominately Jewish organizations money led to front-page news stories, bipartisan censure, and a formal congressional condemnation of anti-Semitism. On Thursday morning, Trumps decision to laugh off the suggestion that the only way to stop asylum seekers is to shoot them at a time when militias are routinely detaining migrants at gunpoint barely registered as news. The remarks appeared nowhere on the home page of Americas paper of record. Congressional Republicans felt little pressure to disavow the presidents behavior. Imagine Ilhan Omar told a crowd of supporters, Palestinians in the West Bank cant use weapons against the Israeli invaders. Other resistance struggles do. And its very effective. But they cant. I would never want them to. But how do we stop these people? and then laughed when a supporter shouted, Shoot them. Would any mainstream commentator, conservative or liberal, insist that these words were harmless because Omar explicitly said she did not want Palestinians to start shooting Israeli settlers? Would congressional Democrats face no significant pressure to condemn her remarks? Would the press treat it as a minor story? What if a group of Palestinians had held 200 Israeli settlers at gunpoint weeks earlier? One cannot credibly claim that Omars remarks about AIPAC endangered Jews more than Trumps remarks about the migrant invasion have endangered Central American asylum seekers. Nor can one describe the former as uniquely insensitive, in light of historical traumas. For one thing, U.S. vigilantes have been committing atrocities against Latin Americans at the southern border since well before that border officially existed; which is to say, since the days when our patriots were the literal invaders. For another, promoting violence against those who seek asylum in the U.S. is itself an affront to Jewish historical memory. And yet, our political class treated Omars remarks as a major scandal, and Trumps as an afterthought. Which suggests that our elected leaders oppose speech that imperils vulnerable minorities unless the minority in question is so vulnerable and small they lack any meaningful political power. In that case, a trope is just a joke. And political correctness is the real intolerance. The compassion of a police officer who found and hugged a missing man with autism shines through in a Facebook photo. Justin Thompson has been an officer for the City of Rohnert Park in California for the past twenty years. Hes also a member of the departments peer support team, a source of emotional support in traumatic cases. When a local man with autism, and other special needs, went missing, Thompson was one of the first responders. Police Chief Tim Mattos tells Yahoo Lifestyle the 31-year-old man is well-liked in his community and familiar to authorities and when he disappeared on Wednesday his mother reported him missing. Knowing the man likes to frequent a popular shopping area called University Square, Thompson and his team expanded their search to Copeland Creek, a tree-lined area with bridges and walking paths. Thompson was unavailable for comment, however Deputy chief Aaron Johnson tells Yahoo Lifestyle that when the man saw Thompson park his motorbike, he started to run. Officer Thompson took off his helmet, slowly approached, and calmed the man down, he says. The man felt scared and reached out for a hug. The police arranged for the relieved and thankful mother to pick up her son, who was missing for just under one hour. A photo of the two men hugging was posted to Facebook by the police department, who wrote, Motor Officer Justin Thompson is really feeling the love today after locating a missing resident on the creek path. Locals commented that Thompson is a wonderful human being who goes the extra mile and showed outstanding care and compassion. Officer Johnson says that Thompsons sensitivity de-escalated the moment: Hes a genuine human and empathetic friend to many. He was the right person for the job. Read more from Yahoo Lifestyle: Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for nonstop inspiration delivered fresh to your feed, every day. LONDON (Reuters) - U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has postponed his visit to Greenland because he needs to return to Washington, the State Department said on Thursday. "Secretary Pompeo must postpone his visit to Greenland due to a need for the secretary to be in Washington, D.C., today," spokeswoman Mortgan Ortagus said. Pompeo had been due to visit Greenland on Thursday, but left London bound for Washington instead. U.S. President Donald Trump on Wednesday imposed new sanctions on Iran, targeting revenue from its exports of industrial metals, the latest salvo in tensions between Washington and Tehran over a 2015 international accord curbing the Islamic Republic's nuclear program. Pompeo told Britain on Wednesday it needed to change its attitude towards China and telecoms company Huawei, casting the world's second largest economy as a threat to the West similar to that once posed by the Soviet Union. (Reporting by Guy Faulconbridge; Editing by Paul Tait) WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo cut short a European trip and returned to Washington for meetings on Iran and North Korea, a senior State Department official said on Thursday. Pompeo first changed his plans to have meetings on Iran after U.S. President Donald Trump on Wednesday imposed fresh sanctions on Iran over its nuclear program. The sanctions target revenue from industrial metal exports in the latest escalation of tensions between Washington and Tehran. Then, on Thursday, North Korea also joined the agenda, after the South Korean military said North Korea had fired missiles, less than one week after North Korean leader Kim Jong Un oversaw the test-firing of rockets and a missile. Pompeo had been scheduled to visit Greenland on Thursday, but instead left London for Washington. The tests by North Korea were its first of a ballistic missile since Pyongyang launched an intercontinental ballistic missile in November 2017. Since then, Kim has held two summits with Trump, but the second summit with Trump broke down. (Reporting by Makini Brice; Editing by Chizu Nomiyama) LONDON (AP) U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has canceled a visit to Greenland to return to Washington amid an escalation of tensions with Iran. Pompeo had been due to wrap up a trip to Europe on Thursday with a stop in Greenland aimed at promoting the Trump administration's Arctic policies. Those policies were criticized earlier this week for not containing the words "climate change" when Pompeo attended an Arctic Council meeting in Finland. The State Department says that Pompeo will still order a restoration of a permanent U.S. diplomatic presence in Greenland. The Greenland stop was the second Pompeo canceled on what was supposed to be a four-nation tour of Europe. On Tuesday, he abruptly dropped a trip to Germany to fly to Baghdad for meetings with Iraqi leaders. Pope Francis has created new laws in tackling abuse in the Catholic church (AP) Pope Francis has created a new law ordering those in Catholic church to report sexual abuse and cover-ups. The new law comes after the church found itself embroiled in sexual abuse allegations. The pontiffs letter is being seen as a message that no-one will be exempt from scrutiny, following his promise in February to take concrete action to tackle abuse. The letter states: All of us, in fact, are called to give concrete witness of faith in Christ in our lives and, in particular, in our relationship with others. The Pope condemned abusive actions by Clergymen in the church (GETTY) The crimes of sexual abuse offend Our Lord, cause physical, psychological and spiritual damage to the victims and harm the community of the faithful. Three forms of sexual abuse are included in the letter including an offence of Forcing someone, by violence or threat or through abuse of authority, to perform or submit to sexual acts. Other offences include performing sexual acts with a minor or a vulnerable person, Production, exhibition, possession or distribution... of child pornography and the recruitment of or inducement of a minor or a vulnerable person to participate in pornographic exhibitions Read more on Yahoo News UK Student, 12, caught up in Denver school shooting says he would have 'gone down fighting' Vicious mugger who violently threw pensioner to the ground hunted by police Ann Widdecombe says no-deal Brexit is 'nothing compared to the sacrifice' of World War Two The rules also apply to historical cases, meaning priests and nuns must report earlier cases of abuse. The Pope also demanded victims reporting abuse must be listened to and supported, as well as offered spiritual, medical and psychological help. #PopeFrancis releases an Apostolic Letter 'Motu Proprio' entitled "Vos estis lux mundi, regarding norms for the handling of clerical abuse cases and attempts to cover them up. https://t.co/YbwdTGjHym Vatican News (@VaticanNews) May 9, 2019 The new law, which is comprised of 16 Articles, read under Reporting: Whenever a cleric or a member of an Institute of Consecrated Life or of a Society of Apostolic Life has notice of, or well-founded motives to believe that, one of the facts referred to in article 1 has been committed, that person is obliged to report promptly the fact to the local Ordinary where the events are said to have occurred or to another Ordinary.An announcement was made via verified Vatican News Twitter account. Story continues A statement read: #PopeFrancis releases an Apostolic Letter 'Motu Proprio' entitled "Vos estis lux mundi, regarding norms for the handling of clerical abuse cases and attempts to cover them up. close up of priests hands holding rosary beads When he was elected in 2013, he called for decisive action on abuse. In March, a law was introduced that makes it compulsory to report the sexual abuse of children within the Vatican and in its diplomatic missions. However critics say the pontiff has not done enough to hold to account bishops who allegedly engaged in sexual abuse cover ups. And in August of last year, the Pope said he would not say one word in response to explosive allegations from a retired Vatican official claiming he covered up sexual abuse and should resign. By Philip Pullella VATICAN CITY (Reuters) - Pope Francis issued a landmark decree on Thursday making bishops directly accountable for sexual abuse or covering it up, requiring clerics to report any cases to Church superiors and allowing anyone to complain directly to the Vatican if needed. Tackling sexual abuses that have battered the Catholic Church's reputation has been a major challenge for Francis since his 2013 election, with victims demanding a crackdown on bishops at the diocese level accused of concealing or mismanaging cases. The papal change in Church law, covering abuse of children and adults alike, also obliges every diocese worldwide to set up simple, accessible reporting systems within a year and spurs local churches to involve lay experts in investigations. Although such systems are already in place in some countries including the United States, they are lacking in many others. Francis's edict obliges the world's one million priests and nuns to report all suspicion of sexual abuse by clerics of any level. Before, it was just a matter of individual conscience as to whether to report cases. It calls for whistleblower protection, saying bishops with conflicts of interest in cases of cover-up should recuse themselves from investigations and that bishops can also be held accountable for abuse of power in sexual relations with adults. Former U.S. Cardinal Theodore McCarrick was expelled from the Roman Catholic priesthood last February after he was found guilty of sexual crimes against minors and adults, including forcing seminarians to sleep with him. "We have said for years that priests should follow certain strict rules, so why should bishops and other members of the Church hierarchy be exempt?" said Cardinal Marc Ouellet, head of the Vatican's Congregation for Bishops. The decree also allows victims or their representatives to report alleged abuses by bishops directly to the Vatican or a Vatican ambassador, bypassing diocesan procedures that have been discredited by multiple instances of cover-ups. But the decree does not alter Vatican policy that clerics should follow local law as to whether they are mandated to report alleged sexual abuse to civil authorities. REPORTING LAWS VARY Victim's groups and their advocates have called for the Vatican to make reporting of suspected abuse to police mandatory but the Holy See says Church law cannot override local civil law because the latter varies around the world. "There is such a variety of domestic laws that we cannot tell states what their citizens should be doing," said Maltese Archbishop Charles Scicluna, the Vatican's senior abuse investigator. Asked if countries where reporting is not obligatory should change their laws, he said: "The prudential thing I would tell every government is empower people to react and denounce crime." He said priests and nuns would now have to report abuse to their superiors even in countries - including several in Latin America - where they are not obliged by civil law to do so. "The law is important because it makes disclosure the main policy of the Church," said Scicluna, who has won the respect of many victims for his investigations of high-profile abusers. The 19-article decree, called "Vos Estis Lux Mundi" (You Are the Light of the World), raises to 18 from 16 the age of adulthood in cases of sexual abuse. It also covers possession of child pornography. "It's significant that the new law protects whistleblowers, requires a systemized information flow, forbids the imposition of secrecy on victims, and spells out a specific procedure for reporting bishops and religious superiors who abuse or cover up," said Anne Barrett-Doyle of the abuse tracking group BishopAccountability.org. "Yet it's not nearly enough. The new law does nothing to enact zero tolerance for child sexual abuse or for cover-up." A spate of abuse scandals has battered Church credibility around the world and forced some dioceses to declare bankruptcy because of billions of dollars paid in settlements with victims. The decree, whose preparation was reported first by Reuters in April, also sets time limits for local investigations and the Vatican's response to them and allows for retroactive reporting. Many local Catholic Churches have been hit by sex abuse scandals since they erupted on a large scale in Boston in 2002 with revelations that Church leaders there had moved sexual abusers from parish to parish instead of defrocking them. (Reporting by Philip Pullella; Editing by Mark Heinrich) Bad news continues to pile up for the debt-ridden Amrapali Group. The Supreme Court on Wednesday warned the real estate giant that it may end up losing ownership rights to as many as 15 of their prime residential properties. The court was hearing a batch of pleas of 42,000 disgruntled home buyers, seeking possession of flats that they booked in the Amrapali Group's stalled projects. The Group is involved in construction of various housing projects, including 170 towers in Noida and Greater Noida. Observing that it would protect the rights of the home buyers, the top court asked whether the Noida Authority, Greater Noida Authority and National Buildings Construction Corporation (NBCC) can finish the pending projects of the Group, India Today reported. It has asked these bodies to evaluate the proposal and revert on the next hearing, scheduled on May 10. "We see that entire Amrapali Group has failed to discharge its duties towards home buyers, authorities and banks. You have neither completed any projects nor invested any money in the projects. We think, you are the one who should be thrown out of these properties," said a bench of justices Arun Mishra and U.U. Lalit, adding that the ownership of these properties may be transferred "lock, stock and barrel to [authorities] Noida and Greater Noida". The Group has admitted to diverting huge sums of money invested by 46,000 homebuyers into other projects and subsidiaries due to which Amrapali reportedly landed in a financial crisis and, in turn, could not complete its residential projects in time. Senior advocate Gaurav Bhatia, appearing for Amrapali, told the bench that Rs 11,652 crore had been collected from the home buyers but Rs 10,630 crore was used for construction of various projects besides paying Rs 998 crore to the authorities as lease amount. The court also questioned how Amrapali Group could mortgage the entire projects and secure loans worth thousands of crores of rupees from banks when it was only an agent to develop the property. It asked the counsel for Noida and Greater Noida authorities to compile all necessary data such as the principal lease amount and interest component project wise, and how much has been paid by Amrapali Group to date. The Supreme Court has not only given the dangling homebuyers some hope of seeing their stalled projects revived, but also protected them from the Group's lenders. The bench directed lenders to recover their losses from Amrapali's top brass instead of attaching property paid for by the homebuyers. "The loans which have been secured by Amrapali Group by mortgaging the lands to the banks can be collected by the financial institutions from the directors of the company or the corporate guarantors," the bench said, adding that it will ensure that banks do not enter the premises of these properties and home buyers get the first charge on the properties. Back in February, the Supreme Court had allowed the Economic Offences Wing of Delhi Police to arrest Amrapali group CMD Anil Sharma in a cheating case, along with directors Shiv Priya and Ajay Kumar, and allowed the Delhi Police to attach their assets. Speculation is rife that the top court will deliver its final judgement on this high-profile on the next hearing since Friday is the last day of the court before summer vacations. With PTI inputs Also read: Rs 9,590 crore can be recovered from Amrapali Group, Forensic auditors to SC Also read: SC shocked over "manipulation" of court's order in Amrapali case, says more heads will roll Want to participate in a short research study? Help shape the future of investing tools and you could win a $250 gift card! Paul Desmarais became the CEO of Power Corporation of Canada (TSE:POW) in 1996. First, this article will compare CEO compensation with compensation at other large companies. After that, we will consider the growth in the business. And finally - as a second measure of performance - we will look at the returns shareholders have received over the last few years. This process should give us an idea about how appropriately the CEO is paid. See our latest analysis for Power of Canada How Does Paul Desmarais's Compensation Compare With Similar Sized Companies? Our data indicates that Power Corporation of Canada is worth CA$13b, and total annual CEO compensation is CA$3.5m. (This number is for the twelve months until December 2018). That's a notable increase of 8.3% on last year. While this analysis focuses on total compensation, it's worth noting the salary is lower, valued at CA$613k. We looked at a group of companies with market capitalizations over CA$11b and the median CEO total compensation was CA$8.8m. (We took a wide range because the CEOs of massive companies tend to be paid similar amounts - even though some are quite a bit bigger than others). Most shareholders would consider it a positive that Paul Desmarais takes less in total compensation than the CEOs of most other large companies, leaving more for shareholders. Though positive, it's important we delve into the performance of the actual business. You can see a visual representation of the CEO compensation at Power of Canada, below. TSX:POW CEO Compensation, May 9th 2019 Is Power Corporation of Canada Growing? Earnings per share at Power Corporation of Canada are much the same as they were three years ago, albeit slightly lower, based on the trend. Its revenue is down -6.4% over last year. Unfortunately there is a complete lack of earnings per share improvement, over three years. And the impression is worse when you consider revenue is down year-on-year. These factors suggest that the business performance wouldn't really justify a high pay packet for the CEO. Shareholders might be interested in this free visualization of analyst forecasts. Story continues Has Power Corporation of Canada Been A Good Investment? With a total shareholder return of 21% over three years, Power Corporation of Canada shareholders would, in general, be reasonably content. But they would probably prefer not to see CEO compensation far in excess of the median. In Summary... Power Corporation of Canada is currently paying its CEO below what is normal for large companies. The compensation paid to Paul Desmarais is lower than is usual at larger companies. However, the earnings per share are not moving in the right direction, and the returns to shareholders could have been better. We would like to see EPS growth from the business, although we wouldn't say the CEO pay is high. So you may want to check if insiders are buying Power of Canada shares with their own money (free access). Important note: Power of Canada may not be the best stock to buy. You might find something better in this list of interesting companies with high ROE and low debt. We aim to bring you long-term focused research analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. If you spot an error that warrants correction, please contact the editor at editorial-team@simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. Simply Wall St has no position in the stocks mentioned. Thank you for reading. Priscilla Presley is ready to let go of a family home that shes owned for more than 40 years. The actress, who will next star opposite Kellie Pickler in the Hallmark Channel film Wedding at Graceland, recently put a ranch-style Brentwood home she owns on the market for $3.65 million. She originally bought the home for $170,000 in 1976, three years after she divorced Elvis Presley, but she didnt actually live there. Her mother, Ann Lillian Wagner-Beaulieu, was the primary resident for many years. Situated on more than a third of an acre and surrounded by a white picket fence, the four-bedroom, three-bathroom home is set on a corner lot, ideal for anyone seeking a little peace, quiet, and privacy. The single-story home was originally built in 1949 and boasts approximately 2,499 square feet of space. priscilla presley Photo: Tyler Hogan Inside the bright red front door, the home opens onto a cozy, if slightly dated, living room with a marble-lined fireplace on one end. Toward the back of the home is an airier family room, with vaulted high ceilings and a set of double French doors opening onto a concrete patio, a kidney-shaped swimming pool, and a yard. (There's also a covered outdoor dining area, accessible via the kitchen.) The kitchen itself is simple, with wood cabinets and drawers, and white-tiled counters and backsplash. A large picture window overlooks the pool out back. Also on the grounds is a two-car garage and additional parking space that can accommodate up to five vehicles. The home is listed with Hilton & Hyland and is being sold as-is, though its interiors would likely welcome an upgrade. Presley herself lives in an Italian-inspired villa located in Beverly Hills. According to reports, she upgraded the home in 1992, when she hired an Italian architect to add a second floor with a library, two bedrooms, and a sweeping Italian-tiled staircase. Originally Appeared on Architectural Digest BINGHAMTON, N.Y. (AP) A prosecutor says no criminal charges will be filed in the case of four 12-year-old girls who say they were illegally strip-searched by a school nurse in upstate New York. Broome County District Attorney Steve Cornwell said Thursday that he has reviewed state and local police investigations and agrees no charges are warranted against Binghamton School District personnel. In January, the four girls claimed they were humiliated by being searched for drugs. Their parents filed a federal civil rights lawsuit against the district last month. It claims racial bias caused school officials to interpret the girls' playful behavior as suspicious. The case sparked community protests. Gov. Andrew Cuomo called for state police and the Department of Education to investigate. School officials say the girls were evaluated but not strip searched. Eric Ripert -- the chef at the helm of three-Michelin-star eatery Le Bernardin, many times crowned best restaurant in New York -- is the latest culinary hero to feature in the "Kalamata's Kitchen" book series, designed to give kids a taste for food and cooking while discovering different cuisines and specialties. Kalamata is the young star of a recent collection of children's books launched in 2018 in the USA. Written by Sarah Thomas and illustrated by Jo Edwards, the stories invite young readers to join a pint-sized foodie called Kalamata, whose magical kitchen table takes her on culinary adventures in faraway lands. The young girl is joined by her best friend, a stuffed alligator called Al Dente. In this third "Kalamata's Kitchen" storybook, the duo find themselves whisked away to the South of France to meet chef Eric Ripert, who hails from the Riviera town of Antibes. The "Le Bernardin" chef draws on his Mediterranean childhood to bring the story to life while whetting the appetites of young readers. The Michelin-starred chef's son Adrien also gets a look-in. At the end of the book, Eric Ripert shares an exclusive recipe to try at home. Previously, chefs Ilma Lopez and Trevett Hooper shared their foodie heritage and memories in the first two books in the series. (Changes crosshead) * Russia holds annual Red Square military parade * Putin reviews the display of military might * No new show-stopping weapons this year By Christian Lowe and Andrew Osborn MOSCOW, May 9 (Reuters) - President Vladimir Putin watched intercontinental nuclear missile launchers roll across Red Square on Thursday as Russia put on its annual show of military might to mark the Soviet Union's World War Two victory over the Nazis. Battling a ratings slump as Russia grinds through a sixth consecutive year of falling real incomes, Putin looked on as thousands of troops marched past and columns of tanks rumbled across the famous square in a display reminiscent of the Cold War era. Putin, whose term ends in 2024, reviewed the parade from a tribune packed with Soviet war veterans, some of whom wore rows of campaign medals and clutched red roses. "We have done and will do everything necessary to ensure the high level of readiness of our armed forces," Putin said. "We call on all countries to recognize our common responsibility to create a security system that is effective and equal for everyone." Russia's ties with the West soured following its annexation of Crimea from Ukraine in 2014, and Moscow has continued to challenge the United States through its staunch support for Syrian President Bashar al-Assad and Venezuela's President Nicolas Maduro. World leaders have attended in the past, but were conspicuous by their absence on Thursday, something the Kremlin played down. Nursultan Nazarbayev, who resigned as Kazakh president in March after three decades in power, was the only notable foreign guest. The Kremlin said it had not invited foreign heads of state but next year's 75th anniversary would be marked with greater pomp as a major milestone. The authorities, backed by state media, use the annual event to boost patriotic feeling at home, something that could help lift Putin's approval rating which, though still high at 66 percent in April, is down from nearly 90 percent five years ago. Story continues The display of raw military power is also designed to show the world and potential buyers of military hardware how a modernisation program has changed the face of the Russian military and arms industry. However, military experts say various problems mean Russia had yet to produce in large numbers some of its newest hardware, such as the T-14 Armata battle tank, despite their Red Square outings. NO NEW SHOW-STOPPING WEAPONS Putin has sharply increased military spending over the nearly 20 years he has dominated Russian politics, handed the Russian military significant policy-making clout, and deployed Russian forces in Ukraine and Syria, stoking tensions with the West. As commander-in-chief, he has also at times donned military uniform himself and been filmed at the controls of a strategic bomber and on the conning tower of a submarine in photo opportunities designed to boost his man of action image. Weapons displayed on Red Square included Russia's Yars mobile intercontinental nuclear missile launcher and its advanced S-400 air defense missile system, which Moscow has deployed in Syria to protect its forces. But this year's parade was notable for the lack of major show-stopping new weapons or pieces of military hardware. Some politicians in former Soviet republics and satellite states regard the parade as crude saber-rattling by a resurgent Russia they say poses a threat to Europe's security. Russia dismisses such allegations as nonsense. (Additional reporting by Gabrielle Tetrault-Farber; Writing by Andrew Osborn; Editing by Jon Boyle) McDonald's announced it has reached an out-of-court settlement with its estranged partner in India, Vikram Bakshi. The US-based fast food major has bought out the stake of Bakshi in Connaught Plaza Restaurants Pvt Ltd (CPRL) that operated chain of McDonald's restaurants in north and east India. The company, however, did not disclose financial details of the settlement. With the completion of the deal with Bakshi, CPRL is now wholly owned by McDonald's India Pvt Ltd (MIPL) and its affiliate (McDonald's Global Markets LLC, "MGM"), the company said in a statement. Under the agreement, MGM has acquired the 50 per cent voting equity shares in CPRL that were held by Bakshi and his affiliated entity since the inception of the joint venture. McDonald's India will continue to hold its 50 per cent voting equity shares in CPRL. After the settlement, Robert Hunghanfoo has been appointed as the head of CPRL. "Accomplishing a mutually agreed settlement in this matter means that our customers can now look forward to a reinvigorated, consistent and uniquely McDonald's experience when they visit us," Hunghanfoo said in the release. ALSO READ:McDonald's looks to take over estranged India partner Vikram Bakshi's 165 outlets McDonald's outlets in north and east India operated by CPRL have been temporarily closed to conduct a comprehensive assessment of operational protocols and employee training. The existing managers and staff of these restaurants will reportedly remain in the company's employment during this temporary closure. They will also be actively involved in steps taken to re-open the restaurants. "Our top priority is to deliver the highest quality restaurant experience to our customers. While we are confident this will result in the best possible experience for our customers, we sincerely regret any inconvenience the temporary restaurant closures may cause," Hunghanfoo said. The story of CPRL began in 1995 when Bakshi and McDonald's formed a 50:50 joint venture to run McDonald's outlets in India for a period of 25 years. Their ties turned sour in 2008, when the Chicago-headquartered company tried to buy out Bakshi's 50 per cent stake. State of affairs worsened five years later, when Bakshi was removed as the Managing Director of CPRL. The National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) subsequently reinstated him and also refrained McDonald's from interfering in the functioning of CPRL besides appointing an administrator to oversee its operations. ALSO READ:McDonald's posts its first-ever profit in India after 22 years Then, in August 2017, McDonald's terminated CPRL's franchise agreement citing non-payment of royalties. As per the termination notice served by the US-based fast food company, these restaurants were barred from using McDonald's brand name, trademark, design, operating and marketing practices and policies, food recipes and specifications after September 5, 2017. But Bakshi had stuck to his guns and continued using the brand and operating the outlets as usual, while battling it out with McDonald's in various legal forums including NCLT, NCLAT and the Delhi High Court. On Monday this week, McDonald's and Bakshi had told the NCLAT that they are working towards an out-of-court settlement, to bring their 5-year-old dispute to a close. 811 E. Bridger Ave. | Photos: Zumper Finding a bargain can be a challenge if you're apartment hunting on a budget. So what does the low-end pricing on a rental in Las Vegas look like these days and what might you get for your money? We took a look at local listings for studios and one-bedroom apartments in Las Vegas via rental site Zumper to find out what price-conscious apartment seekers can expect to find. Read on for the cheapest listings available right now. (Note: prices and availability are subject to change.) Hoodline offers data-driven analysis of local happenings and trends across cities. Links included in this article may earn Hoodline a commission on clicks and transactions. 204 Orland St., #2 This one-bedroom, one-bathroom condo, situated at 204 Orland St., #2, is listed for $600/month for its 612 square feet of space. In the unit, anticipate air conditioning. Pets are not allowed. There isn't a leasing fee associated with this rental. Per Walk Score ratings, the surrounding area isn't very walkable, is somewhat bikeable and has some transit options. (See the complete listing here.) 230 W. Boston Ave. Next, here's a one-bedroom, one-bathroom at 230 W. Boston Ave. in Meadows Village, which, at 540 square feet, is also going for $600/month. The rental doesn't require a leasing fee. Dogs and cats are welcome here. According to Walk Score's assessment, the surrounding area is quite walkable, is fairly bikeable and has good transit options. (See the full listing here.) 501 S. Maryland Parkway Next up is this 420-square-foot studio, located at 501 S. Maryland Parkway in Downtown and listed for $650/month. Building amenities include a swimming pool and on-site laundry. Future tenants needn't worry about a leasing fee. According to Walk Score's assessment, the area around this address is friendly for those on foot, is fairly bikeable and offers many nearby public transportation options. (Here's the listing.) 1922 Fairfield Ave. Next up, this one-bedroom, one-bathroom, situated at 1922 Fairfield Ave. in Meadows Village, is listed for $675/month. Story continues The rental doesn't require a leasing fee. Pets are not welcome here. According to Walk Score, the area around this address is very walkable, is relatively bikeable and has good transit options. (See the listing here.) 811 E. Bridger Ave. Finally, over at 811 E. Bridger Ave. in Downtown, there's this 325-square-foot studio, also going for $675/month. In the unit, anticipate air conditioning. Dogs and cats are not allowed here. Amenities offered in the building include a swimming pool, a fitness center and on-site laundry. Walk Score indicates that this location is a "walker's paradise," has some bike infrastructure and offers many nearby public transportation options. (View the listing here.) This story was created automatically using local real estate data, then reviewed by an editor. Click here for more about what we're doing. Got thoughts? Go here to share your feedback. 1503 E. Kane Place. | Photos: Zumper According to rental site Zumper, median rents for a one-bedroom in Milwaukee are hovering around $700. But how does the low-end pricing on a Milwaukee rental look these days and what might you get for your money? We took a look at local listings for studios and one-bedroom apartments to find out what budget-minded apartment seekers can expect to find. Take a look at the cheapest listings available right now, below. (Note: prices and availability are subject to change.) Hoodline offers data-driven analysis of local happenings and trends across cities. Links included in this article may earn Hoodline a commission on clicks and transactions. 2435 W. Wisconsin Ave. This studio, situated at 2435 W. Wisconsin Ave. in Avenues West, is listed for $465/month. In the unit, you can expect hardwood flooring. Pets are not welcome. There isn't a leasing fee associated with this rental. Walk Score indicates that the surrounding area is very walkable, is bikeable and has good transit options. (See the complete listing here.) 2705 W. Courtland Ave. Here's a studio apartment at 2705 W. Courtland Ave. in Old North Milwaukee, which is also going for $465/month. Assigned parking is listed as a building amenity. Pets are not allowed. Walk Score indicates that this location is somewhat walkable, is fairly bikeable and has good transit options. (See the full listing here.) 1503 E. Kane Place Next up is this 400-square-foot studio, located at 1503 E. Kane Place in Lower East Side and listed for $500/month. In the unit, you'll find hardwood floors and central heating. The building boasts on-site laundry. For those with furry friends in tow, know that cats and dogs are allowed on this property. There's no leasing fee required for this rental. Walk Score indicates that the surrounding area is a "walker's paradise," is easy to get around on a bicycle and offers many nearby public transportation options. (Here's the listing.) 2822 N. First St. Story continues This studio apartment, situated at 2822 N. First St. in Harambee, is also listed for $500/month. In the unit, you'll find central heating and hardwood flooring. Feline companions are welcome. The building offers garage parking. Future tenants needn't worry about a leasing fee. Walk Score indicates that this location is quite walkable, is bikeable and has good transit options. (See the listing here.) 1527 N. Marshall St. And here's a studio at 1527 N. Marshall St. in Lower East Side, which, with 300 square feet, is going for $525/month. In the unit, you'll find central heating and hardwood flooring. The building features on-site laundry. Attention, cat owners: your kitty is allowed here. The rental doesn't require a leasing fee. According to Walk Score's assessment, the area around this address is extremely walkable, is easy to get around on a bicycle and offers many nearby public transportation options. (Check out the listing here.) This story was created automatically using local real estate data, then reviewed by an editor. Click here for more about what we're doing. Got thoughts? Go here to share your feedback. WASHINGTON (AP) -- President Donald Trump on Wednesday acknowledged taking massive tax write offs for real estate losses topping $1 billion from the mid-1980s to mid-1990s, calling it "sport" among developers like himself during that period. Trump was reacting to a New York Times report Tuesday that his businesses lost more than $1 billion from 1985 to 1994. The newspaper said its reporting was based on printouts it acquired of Trump's official IRS tax transcripts, including figures from his federal tax form. Trump reported business losses of $46.1 million in 1985, and a total of $1.17 billion in losses for the 10-year period. The president appeared to defend his actions in a pair of tweets early Wednesday. "Real estate developers in the 1980's & 1990's, more than 30 years ago, were entitled to massive write offs and depreciation which would, if one was actively building, show losses and tax losses in almost all cases," Trump tweeted. He contended the reported losses were "non monetary." "Sometimes considered 'tax shelter,' you would get it by building, or even buying. You always wanted to show losses for tax purposes....almost all real estate developers did - and often re-negotiate with banks, it was sport," Trump said. He claimed the Times report was a "highly inaccurate Fake News hit job!" based on old information. After comparing Trump's information with that of other "high-income earners," the Times concluded that Trump "appears to have lost more money than nearly any other individual American taxpayer." Because of his business losses, the newspaper reported, Trump did not pay income taxes for eight of the 10 years. The House Ways and Means Committee has asked the IRS to provide Trump's personal and business returns for 2013 through 2018. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin on Monday refused to do so, saying the panel's request "lacks a legitimate legislative purpose." Mnuchin oversees the IRS. Mnuchin's move, which had been expected, is likely to set a legal battle into motion. The chief options available to House Democrats are to subpoena the IRS for the returns or to file a lawsuit. Trump is the first president since Watergate to decline to make his tax returns public. Following is a summary of current health news briefs. U.S. government to require drugmakers to show prices in TV ads The Trump administration on Wednesday said it will require drugmakers to disclose the list price of prescription drugs in direct-to-consumer television advertisements, part of the government's efforts to lower costs for U.S. consumers. The list price would be included if it is equal to or greater than $35 for a month's supply or the usual course of therapy. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) said that the 10 most commonly advertised drugs have list prices ranging from $488 to $16,938 per month or usual course of therapy. Denver votes to become first U.S. city to decriminalize 'magic mushrooms' Denver will become the first city in the United States to decriminalize magic mushrooms, based on final unofficial results on Wednesday of a ballot initiative about the hallucinogenic drug. The initiative called for Colorado's capital to end the imposition of criminal penalties for individuals at least 21 years of age for using or possessing psilocybin, widely known as magic mushrooms. Repetition helps preschoolers learn to eat healthy foods By using the right words and repeating the phrases, adults can help young kids get over picky eating behaviors and eat healthier foods, according to a new study. Saying "Lentils will help you run faster," for instance, encourages preschoolers to understand the benefits and pick the foods they want, the study authors write in the Journal of Nutrition Education and Behavior. Takeda sells dry eye drug to Novartis to help cut debt Takeda Pharmaceutical Co Ltd agreed to sell its dry eye drug to Swiss drugmaker Novartis AG for $3.4 billion and potential milestone payments of up to $1.9 billion, in the first divestment since its takeover of Britain's Shire. Japan's biggest drugmaker aims to dispose of $10 billion worth of assets to cut debt taken on for the huge Shire acquisition sealed in January, which catapulted it into the world's top 10 drugmakers by sales but also made it one of the most indebted. Story continues Global obesity rising faster in rural areas than cities, study finds Global rates of obesity among people who live in the countryside are rising faster than those among city dwellers, in part due to greater access in urban areas to healthier foods and places to exercise, researchers said on Wednesday. In a study of 33 years of trends in body mass index (BMI) across 200 countries and territories, the scientists found that people worldwide are getting heavier - with average weight rising by 5 to 6 kg (11 to 13 pounds) over the period of the study - and that most of the rise is due to gains in BMI in rural areas. Health funding gap means 1,700 in Gaza may face amputations: U.N. A lack of health funding in Gaza means 1,700 people shot by Israeli security forces may have to have amputations in the next two years, Jamie McGoldrick, the U.N. Humanitarian Coordinator for occupied Palestinian territory, told reporters on Wednesday. McGoldrick said 29,000 Palestinians had been wounded in protests in the past year, and 7,000 of them had gunshot wounds, mostly in the lower legs. Dementia-related marker found in former pro athletes with concussion history Levels of a protein called tau in spinal fluid may help predict which former pro athletes with multiple concussions will end up with long lasting effects from their history of jolts to the brain, a new study suggests. Elevated tau levels found in some concussed former athletes were associated with signs of damage to brain-cell connection bundles on brain scans and with poorer performance on cognitive tests, the study team reports in Neurology. UnitedHealthcare aims to cut maternity care costs with new program UnitedHealthcare Group said on Thursday it had launched a new program to cut maternity costs under which partner hospitals would be paid a fixed rate for care during and after pregnancy, rather than for every service rendered. Rising healthcare costs in the United States have become a topic of heated national debate and maternity care has been earmarked as a big driver of high-cost claims for large employers and health insurers. Progesterone only prevents miscarriage in women with history of pregnancy loss Giving progesterone to women with bleeding early in pregnancy doesn't prevent pregnancy loss, except among women who have had a previous miscarriage, according to a study of 4,153 women treated at 48 hospitals in the UK. "It's great news for patients," lead author Dr. Arri Coomarasamy, a professor of gynecology at the University of Birmingham, told Reuters Health in a telephone interview. It will prevent unnecessary progesterone treatment for most women, and give extra hope to women facing a second, third or fourth miscarriage. Walmart raises U.S. tobacco purchase age to 21 starting in July Walmart Inc said on Wednesday it will raise the minimum age to purchase tobacco products to 21 across its U.S. stores starting July 1, responding to growing regulatory and political pressure to curb a surge in teenage use of e-cigarettes. It also pushed the world's largest retailer to say it discontinue the sale of fruit-and dessert-flavored electronic nicotine delivery systems. Following is a summary of current health news briefs. Denver votes to become first U.S. city to decriminalize 'magic mushrooms' Denver will become the first city in the United States to decriminalize magic mushrooms, based on final unofficial results on Wednesday of a ballot initiative about the hallucinogenic drug. The initiative called for Colorado's capital to end the imposition of criminal penalties for individuals at least 21 years of age for using or possessing psilocybin, widely known as magic mushrooms. Novartis buys dry eye drug from Takeda for up to $5.3 billion Novartis is buying dry-eye drug Xiidra from Takeda Pharmaceutical Co for up to $5.3 billion as the Swiss drugmaker refreshes its ophthalmic medicines portfolio with a potential blockbuster. The deal, announced early on Thursday, calls for $3.4 billion up front and milestone payments up to $1.9 billion, Novartis said. Bristol-Myers' Opdivo fails late-stage brain cancer trial Bristol-Myers Squibb Co said on Thursday its immunotherapy Opdivo failed to meet the main goal of a late-stage trial testing it in patients with an aggressive form of tumor that affects the brain or the spine. Opdivo, used in combination with radiation therapy, failed to extend survival in patients with glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), when compared with the chemotherapy temozolomide and radiation therapy. Global obesity rising faster in rural areas than cities, study finds Global rates of obesity among people who live in the countryside are rising faster than those among city dwellers, in part due to greater access in urban areas to healthier foods and places to exercise, researchers said on Wednesday. In a study of 33 years of trends in body mass index (BMI) across 200 countries and territories, the scientists found that people worldwide are getting heavier - with average weight rising by 5 to 6 kg (11 to 13 pounds) over the period of the study - and that most of the rise is due to gains in BMI in rural areas. Story continues Health funding gap means 1,700 in Gaza may face amputations: U.N. A lack of health funding in Gaza means 1,700 people shot by Israeli security forces may have to have amputations in the next two years, Jamie McGoldrick, the U.N. Humanitarian Coordinator for occupied Palestinian territory, told reporters on Wednesday. McGoldrick said 29,000 Palestinians had been wounded in protests in the past year, and 7,000 of them had gunshot wounds, mostly in the lower legs. UnitedHealthcare aims to cut maternity care costs with new program UnitedHealthcare Group said on Thursday it had launched a new program to cut maternity costs under which partner hospitals would be paid a fixed rate for care during and after pregnancy, rather than for every service rendered. Rising healthcare costs in the United States have become a topic of heated national debate and maternity care has been earmarked as a big driver of high-cost claims for large employers and health insurers. Indivior signs deal to sell schizophrenia drug in Canada British drugmaker Indivior Plc on Thursday signed a licensing agreement with HLS Therapeutics Inc for the sale of its schizophrenia drug Perseris in Canada. Perseris, launched in the United States in February, is approved by the FDA for the treatment of schizophrenia in adults. The drug delivers its active ingredient, risperidone, in an extended-release delivery system with no loading doses or oral supplementation recommended. Disease to cut China pig meat output by at least 10 percent: FAO An African Swine Fever outbreak is expected to cut China's pig meat output by at least 10 percent in 2019 and present opportunities for producers elsewhere, the United Nations' Food and Agriculture Organization said on Thursday. The shrinking of the world's largest hog herd will have a noticeable impact on meat and feed markets worldwide, with more than one million pigs culled in China so far in an effort to halt the contagion, the FAO said in a food outlook report. Podimetrics completes $13.4 million funding for disease-detecting foot mat Podimetrics, the maker of a smart foot mat that detects warning signs of diabetic foot ulcers, said on Thursday it raised $13.4 million in a funding round led by a group of investors, including venture capital firm Scientific Health Development. The company said the proceeds will be used to reach out to more people through the Veterans Affairs (VA) department, which provides health care services to military veterans. Its device is already used in 14 VA medical centers across the United States. Walmart raises U.S. tobacco purchase age to 21 starting in July Walmart Inc said on Wednesday it will raise the minimum age to purchase tobacco products to 21 across its U.S. stores starting July 1, responding to growing regulatory and political pressure to curb a surge in teenage use of e-cigarettes. It also pushed the world's largest retailer to say it discontinue the sale of fruit-and dessert-flavored electronic nicotine delivery systems. Following is a summary of current people news briefs. George Clooney returns to television with 'Catch 22' Twenty years after he left medical drama "ER," George Clooney returns to television this month with an adaptation of Joseph Heller's "Catch-22," a novel whose complexity the actor said made it ideal for a six-part series. The Oscar winner, known for films like "Syriana," "Gravity" and "The Monuments Men," also served as executive producer and directed two episodes of the Hulu series set during World War Two about a member of a U.S. bomber squadron fighting the higher-ups in the military bureaucracy. Insufficient evidence to conclude Prodigy frontman committed suicide, British inquest hears Prodigy frontman Keith Flint died as a result of hanging and drugs that were in his system, an inquest into his death heard on Wednesday, but there was not enough evidence to determine he committed suicide. Flint, a figurehead of the 1990s rave movement famous for tracks such as "Firestarter" and "Breathe," was found dead at his home in March, aged 49. Royal baby Archie: Prince Harry and Meghan name their 'bundle of joy' Britain's Prince Harry and his wife Meghan announced on Wednesday they had named their newborn son Archie as they showed him off to the world, saying their "little bundle of joy" was magic. In a post on their Instagram account accompanying a picture of the parents with Queen Elizabeth, her husband Prince Philip and Meghan's mother Doria Ragland, the couple said the seventh-in-line to the British throne would be known as Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor. The Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) has asked Serious Fraud Investigation Office (SFIO) to initiate a probe into Jet Airways and its subsidiaries over suspicions that the promoters of the company siphoned off funds, reports said. Weighed down by a debt burden of Rs 8,400 crore, the airline had to suspend operations in mid-April after it ran out of funds to stay afloat. The government has discovered enough evidence of money siphoning, and it warrants SFIO probe, CNBC-TV18 reported while quoting an anonymous source. The report of Western Regional Director was submitted earlier this week, which was examined in detail by the ministry before the probe was ordered, the report further said. The Mumbai-based Western Regional Director was looking into the book of accounts of Jet Airways and its subsidiaries since last year. The inspection of Jet Airways' accounts was started eight months after ministry directions to ascertain if there was any diversion of funds. The Registrar of Companies (RoC) had also been included in the inspection after the airline did not present its financial results for the first quarter of FY19. ALSO READ:Taj Hotels offers jobs to grounded Jet Airways employees The SFIO probe against Jet Airways has been initiated a day after the Enforcement Directorate (ED) begun an initial probe into Etihad Airways PJSC's (Public Joint Stock Company) investment in the airline's frequent flyer programme, Jet Privilege. The ED is probing to ascertain whether foreign direct investment (FDI) norms were violated by Etihad that took a stake in JPPL in 2014. The ED had called certain Jet Airways officials for questioning to get an idea about the structure of the deal between Etihad and JPPL. The official said that previous queries raised by FIPB to both the airlines had gone unanswered. ALSO READ:Jet Airways crisis: HDFC puts airline's BKC office in Mumbai for sale Jet Airways had temporarily suspended operations on April 17 after failing to convince its lenders to infuse funds required to pay vendors and services providers. The airline is presently under the command of a SBI-led consortium of banks which had extended loans to the airline. The consortium of lenders is planning to hold a bidding process for selling stake in Jet Airways. The proceeds of the stake sale will go towards realising the airline's debt. Four entities - Etihad Airways, TPG Capital, Indigo Partners and National Investment and Infrastructure Fund (NIIF) - have been shortlisted for the bidding process, which will be completed on May 10. ALSO READ:ED investigates Etihad investment in Jet Privilege for FDI norms violation: report Following is a summary of current people news briefs. George Clooney returns to television with 'Catch 22' Twenty years after he left medical drama "ER," George Clooney returns to television this month with an adaptation of Joseph Heller's "Catch-22," a novel whose complexity the actor said made it ideal for a six-part series. The Oscar winner, known for films like "Syriana," "Gravity" and "The Monuments Men," also served as executive producer and directed two episodes of the Hulu series set during World War Two about a member of a U.S. bomber squadron fighting the higher-ups in the military bureaucracy. Prince Harry given baby romper at first workday as father Prince Harry was given a baby outfit for his son Archie by Princess Margriet of the Netherlands on Thursday as the new dad went back to work to mark a year until the 2020 edition of the Invictus Games he founded for wounded military personnel. Harry, the Duke of Sussex, said he had "no idea" whether his son, whose birth was announced on Monday, would attend the sporting event in a year's time - but he now has the baby onesie emblazoned with its logo. Insufficient evidence to conclude Prodigy frontman committed suicide, British inquest hears Prodigy frontman Keith Flint died as a result of hanging and drugs that were in his system, an inquest into his death heard on Wednesday, but there was not enough evidence to determine he committed suicide. Flint, a figurehead of the 1990s rave movement famous for tracks such as "Firestarter" and "Breathe," was found dead at his home in March, aged 49. Royal baby Archie: Prince Harry and Meghan name their 'bundle of joy' Britain's Prince Harry and his wife Meghan announced on Wednesday they had named their newborn son Archie as they showed him off to the world, saying their "little bundle of joy" was magic. In a post on their Instagram account accompanying a picture of the parents with Queen Elizabeth, her husband Prince Philip and Meghan's mother Doria Ragland, the couple said the seventh-in-line to the British throne would be known as Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor. Following is a summary of current world news briefs. Pope issues sweeping decree holding bishops accountable for sex abuse or cover ups Pope Francis introduced sweeping changes in Catholic Church law on Thursday to hold bishops accountable for sexual abuse or covering it up, making reporting obligatory for clerics and allowing anyone to complain directly to the Vatican if needed. A papal decree, which covers abuse of both children and adults, also obliges every Catholic diocese in the world to set up simple and accessible reporting systems and encourages local churches to involve lay experts in investigations. Gunmen kill five members of a family near Iraq's Mosul Gunmen shot dead five members of a family in an attack on their house near the northern Iraqi city of Mosul late on Wednesday, police officials and hospital sources said. Police officials in the area said Islamic State militants were involved in the attack. Police investigating Northern Ireland journalist killing arrest four Police investigating last month's murder of journalist Lyra McKee in Northern Ireland arrested four people in Londonderry on Thursday under terrorist legislation, authorities said. McKee's killing by an Irish nationalist militant during a riot in the city sparked outrage in the province where a 1998 peace deal mostly ended three decades of sectarian violence that cost the lives of some 3,600 people. Rights group tries to block Saudi vessel loading French arms A French human rights group on Thursday sought to block the loading of weapons onto a Saudi Arabian vessel that is due to dock in northern France later in the day, its lawyers said, arguing the cargo contravened an international arms treaty. The move comes weeks after an online investigative site published leaked French military intelligence that showed weapons sold to the kingdom, including tanks and laser-guided missile systems, were being used against civilians in Yemen's war. Story continues U.S., Japan, India and Philippines challenge Beijing with naval drills in the South China Sea In fresh show of naval force in the contested South China Sea, a U.S. guided missile destroyer conducted drills with a Japanese aircraft carrier, two Indian naval ships and a Philippine patrol vessel in the waterway claimed by China, the U.S. Navy said on Thursday. While similar exercises have been held in the South China Sea in the past, the combined display by four countries represents a fresh challenge to Beijing as U.S. President Donald Trump threatens to hike tariffs on $200 billion worth of Chinese goods. Europeans reject "ultimatums" from Iran as it eases nuclear curbs European countries said on Thursday they wanted to preserve Iran's nuclear deal and rejected "ultimatums" from Tehran, after Iran scaled back curbs on its nuclear program and threatened moves that might breach the pact. Iran announced steps on Wednesday to ease curbs on its nuclear program, in response to new U.S. sanctions imposed after Washington abandoned the deal a year ago. Christian woman who was on death row has left country, Pakistan says Pakistan on Thursday provided its first official confirmation that Asia Bibi, a Christian woman who spent eight years on death row falsely charged with blasphemy, had left the country more than six months after being acquitted by the Supreme Court. The case created an international furor in October, after her release prompted days of rioting and demands for her death from hardline Islamists who rejected the outcome and warned Prime Minister Imran Khan's government not to let her leave. North Korea fires two short-range missiles in second test in a week North Korea fired what appeared to be two short-range missiles on Thursday, the South's military said, less than a week after its leader, Kim Jong Un, oversaw the test-firing of multiple rockets and a missile. The launches came as U.S. special envoy for North Korea Stephen Biegun was in the South Korean capital for talks with Foreign Minister Kang Kyung-wha and his counterpart, nuclear envoy Lee Do-hoon. Labour's Corbyn says: "No big offer" yet from PM May on Brexit British Prime Minister Theresa May's government has so far made no big offer to the opposition Labour Party on Brexit, leader Jeremy Corbyn said on Thursday. "So far in those talks there's been no big offer and the red lines are still in place," Corbyn said. "Its actually quite difficult negotiating with a disintegrating government, with cabinet ministers jockeying for succession rather than working for an agreement." Deputy of Venezuela's Guaido arrested and dragged away by tow truck Venezuelan intelligence agents detained opposition leader Juan Guaido's congressional deputy on Wednesday, using a tow truck to drag his vehicle away with him inside, prompting the U.S. government to warn of "consequences" if he was not released. The SEBIN intelligence agency seized Edgar Zambrano, vice president of the opposition-controlled National Assembly, which Guaido heads, in the first arrest of a lawmaker since Guaido tried to spark a military uprising last week to bring down President Nicolas Maduro's government. By John Irish and Sophie Louet PARIS, May 9 (Reuters) - A French human rights group on Thursday sought to block the loading of weapons onto a Saudi Arabian vessel that is due to dock in northern France later in the day, its lawyers said, arguing the cargo contravened an international arms treaty. The move comes weeks after an online investigative site published leaked French military intelligence that showed weapons sold to the kingdom, including tanks and laser-guided missile systems, were being used against civilians in Yemen's war. France is one of Saudi Arabia's main arms' suppliers, but Paris has faced increasing pressure to review its sales because the four-year-old conflict has shattered Yemen's economy and created one of the world's worst humanitarian crises. Speaking on behalf of rights group ACAT, lawyer Joseph Brehem told Reuters he had filed a legal suit to prevent the weapons being loaded aboard the Bahri-Yanbu, a cargo ship operating for Saudi Arabia's defense and interior ministries, on the basis of an article of the U.N. Arms Trade Treaty. "The article says that one country cannot authorize the transfer of weapons if at the time of the authorisation, the country knew that weapons could be used to commit war crimes," he said. France's Armed Forces Minister Florence Parly on Wednesday confirmed the vessel would take delivery of French arms relating to an order dating back several years. Investigative website Disclose said this week that eight howitzer Caesar cannons, manufactured by Nexter, were part of the order. The French government declined to give details on the contents of the arms order. GUARANTEES France is a signatory of the U.N. Arms Trade Treaty that regulates the international trade of conventional weapons and bans the sale of weapons that fuel human rights violations or war crimes. U.N. experts have said all sides in the Yemeni conflict may have committed war crimes. Story continues Ship tracking data showed that the Bahri-Yanbu had been at anchor off the northern French coast since Wednesday evening and had not yet docked at Le Havre. It is due to leave with its cargo on Friday night. The incident is awkward for President Emmanuel Macron and his government, which has said that as far as it knows French-made arms sold to Saudi Arabia are used solely for defensive purposes on the border. Macron said on Thursday that he had obtained guarantees from Saudi Arabia that weapons were not being used against civilians. He also defended sales to Saudi Arabia, which he called a key ally in the fight against terrorism. "Most of the weapons that have been sold are used inside (Saudi) territory or at the border, but they are used in the conflict," he told reporters in Sibiu, Romania, ahead of a summit of EU leaders. (Reporting by John Irish; Editing by Richard Lough, William Maclean) If Palm Beach County prosecutors werent already in danger of losing the misdemeanor prostitution case against New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft, newly released court filings suggest the charges may be in jeopardy. An exchange between Krafts attorneys and prosecutors this week over the legality of surveillance inside the Orchids of Asia Day Spa revealed a pressing issue for authorities in Jupiter, Florida: The officer who pulled over Krafts car following his spa visit was recorded on a police radio exchange saying hed come up with something to justify a traffic stop where he identified a suspect who departed the spa immediately before Kraft. Krafts push to discredit police tactics Attorneys for the Patriots owner have consistently argued that police secured illegal video and audio surveillance inside the spa, and followed that up with an illegal traffic stop to identify customers leaving the business. As Krafts legal case progresses, his attorneys have pushed a motion to get the spa surveillance as well as evidence gained in his traffic stop barred from a trial. Part of that assertion now appears to have traction as it has come to light in a recent legal exchange. The details unfolded when prosecutors asked a judge to find two of Krafts attorneys in contempt for falsely alleging that a police officer had admitted manufacturing a traffic infraction to stop and identify the spa patron prior to Krafts traffic stop. The request for that contempt finding came after two of Krafts attorneys William Burck and Alex Spiro asked Jupiter police officer Scott Kimbark if he had told other police officers that he would fabricate a reason to stop a customer who left the spa immediately before Kraft. Robert Kraft's legal team is focusing on Officer Scott Kimbark, pictured in a May 1 hearing. Kimbark stopped the car containing Kraft. (AP) During the questioning, Spiro repeatedly accused Kimbark of telling other officers that although he didnt have probable cause to stop the suspect before Kraft, the officer had said he would make some s--- up to create a traffic stop. Kimbark denied making that statement. Following that denial, Palm Beach County prosecutors repeated that Kimbark had made no such statement and asked the judge to strike the entire line of questioning, while also holding Burck and Spiro in contempt for making a false and misleading accusation. Story continues Prosecutors further alleged that Spiro had tried to influence Kimbark during a lunch break in the same legal proceedings, telling the officer they had obtained video of him saying stupid s---. Krafts attorneys reacted to the contempt allegation by promising a rebuttal that would provide proof for the line of questioning. That evidence was revealed in a filing late Tuesday night, in which Krafts attorneys argued that the state has refused to produce Kimbarks body cam footage during his stop of the Patriots owner. That apparently led Krafts legal team to seek out other accompanying evidence, some of which came from the surveillance of the customer who left the spa just prior to Kraft. A closer look at police radio exchange During that traffic stop, a radio exchange between officers gave Krafts attorneys reason to believe that the traffic stop was manipulated. In the exchange: * Officers first discuss a traffic infraction that occurred inside the parking lot of the day spa. * One officer asks if anyone had anything better than pulling out of that plaza? * A second officer responds that the suspect was driving like an angel after leaving the parking lot. * Kimbark, who eventually pulled the suspect over, responded Alright Ill come up with something when I tell him. While the suspect being spoken about wasnt Kraft, it was the patron who left the day spa directly before him. That exchange came from the officers body cam footage which hasnt been provided in the Kraft case. At the very least, it opens a window of dispute in Krafts defense because it suggests that police engineered elements of the traffic stop to gain the information needed in their case. Patriots owner Robert Kraft faces misdemeanor charges for the alleged solicitation of prostitutes. (AP) Defense of officers comment In the volley of legal paperwork, it becomes clear that the prosecutors office is honing in on the line of questioning from Krafts attorneys that surrounded the allegation that Kimbark vowed to make some s--- up. The contention of the prosecution was that Kimbark intended to omit where the traffic stop occurred in the parking lot of the day spa rather than fabricating the stop completely. Theres some nuance in language in that argument and its open to legal interpretation. But its leaning more toward something Krafts legal team has been arguing: that police didnt have proper cause to stop some of their suspects or perhaps just Kraft specifically. Early in the case, it seemed like that was an argument meant to muddy the legal proceedings. Now, there may be some legitimate standing to question some of the Jupiter police departments procedures in the case, while also potentially throwing out the traffic stop that identified Kraft. If Krafts attorneys can accomplish the latter, it may undercut and eventually end the entire misdemeanor case hanging over him. More from Yahoo Sports: WASHINGTON A day after being cited for contempt, Attorney General William Barr looked no worse for the rare rebuke. Barr, in his first public appearance since the House Judiciary Committee took action against the attorney general for refusing to turn over an unredacted version of special counsel Robert Mueller's Russia report, wore a broad smile as he presided over a farewell ceremony for Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein. Drawing howls of laughter, the attorney general did not hesitate to address the congressional admonishment, suggesting that it "must be a record" for the first 100 days of any attorney general's tenure. He then called the guest of honor, Rosenstein, to his side to re-enact a much-mocked scene from a Justice Department briefing just prior to last month's release of Mueller's report when Rosenstein stood stone-faced behind his boss, prompting a comic viral surge on Twitter. "I do my best work at congressional hearings," Barr said, referring to his own combative appearance last week before the Senate Judiciary Committee. "Rod does his best work standing behind the attorney general." More: William Barr grilled by Congress after release of Mueller Report More: Barr vs. Mueller: The attorney general fights his own battle with the special counsel as he stands up for Trump While Thursday's ceremony was staged to honor Rosenstein's three-decades at the department, it was transformed into a pep rally of sorts where former and current officials offered stirring defenses of an agency thrust into a harsh spotlight since Mueller's report was made public. Former Attorney General Jeff Sessions, whom President Donald Trump ousted largely because of his recusal from the Russia investigation, cited Rosenstein's unswerving leadership during "one of the most difficult times in the history of the department." Referring to Mueller by name, Sessions said the special counsel was "given the time and the support" to complete his work. Story continues "At the end, in America, we are committed to a lawful process," Sessions said. "The system worked. What more can a public servant do?" Sessions, who left the podium to a standing ovation, was only one in a roster of guests drawn to the department's cavernous Great Hall and who played singular roles in the 22-month inquiry thatdespite its completioncontinues to shake at the highest levels of the department. Though Barr and Rosenstein, whose tumultuous tenure was defined by Mueller's investigation, were the unquestioned headliners of the event, others included former White House Counsel Don McGahn, perhaps the most quoted witness in the special counsel's scathing 448-page report; Senate Intelligence Committee Chairman Richard Burr, R-N.C., whose committee continues its own inquiry of Russian interference; Matt Whitaker, who briefly served as acting attorney general following Sessions' ouster; and FBI Director Christopher Wray, who replaced James Comey after his abrupt dismissal because of his handling of the Russia inquiry. Also not to be ignored was the symbolism of the very date of Thursday's ceremony: two years to the day of Comey's dismissal, an act that contributed to broadening Mueller's inquiry into an examination of whether Trump had sought to obstruct the investigation by firing the man who then ran it. Because Mueller did not make a determination on the question of obstruction, Barr intervened in March, announcing in a summary of the special counsel's findings that there was insufficient evidence to charge the president with criminal obstruction. Democrats have since seized on Barr's intervention, claiming that the attorney general acted to protect the president. Outside of Mueller's team, however, the public weight of the past two years of investigation was mostly borne by Rosenstein who spent much that time on the verge of removal or resignation. His oversight of Mueller's far-flung inquiry into Russian election interference often made him a favorite target of Trump, who once superimposed Rosensteins likeness behind prison bars in one of many tweets disparaging the presidents political enemies. Among his first actions as deputy attorney general, Rosenstein authored a memorandum that Trump used as the basis for firing Comey. Comey's firing so shook public confidence in the Russia inquiry that just days later, Rosenstein appointed Mueller, a former FBI director, to lead the investigation as a Justice Department special counsel. Nonetheless, Rosenstein often found himself in the middle of a politically-charged battle in which Trump and congressional allies cast the deputy attorney general as a ringleader in partisan "witch hunt" while Democrats came to view the Republican as an unlikely guard against White House interference. His tenure nearly came to a premature end last year when he mulled resignation in the wake of a New York Times report indicating that he suggested invoking the 25th Amendment to remove Trump. Rosenstein strongly denied the report, which indicated that he suggested recording Trump's conversations in hopes of triggering the president's removal from office. The incident prompted a hastily-called White House meeting where Rosenstein expected to be fired only to return to Justice later that day with his status unchanged. His relationship with Trump, while often fraught, appeared in recent months to settle, with Trump claiming in a January interview with the New York Times that the deputy attorney general had assured him that he was not a target of Mueller's probe. In his resignation letter submitted last month, Rosenstein offered both gratitude to Trump and veiled references to the extraordinary challenges posed by the investigation that shadowed the first two years of Trump's administration. On Thursday, the outgoing deputy attorney general summoned an unmitigated defense of the department and its handling of Mueller's report. "The rule of law is not just a talking point for us," Rosenstein told the audience, "it is an operating principle. The rule of law requires us to ignore partisan politics, tune out the news cycle, and base our decisions on credible evidence. "We stayed the course and we accomplished what we set out to do," he said. "I leave here confident that justice is in good hands; it is in your hands." Read more: Download the USA TODAY app This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Attorney General William Barr jokes contempt in first 100 days 'must be a record' during Rosenstein farewell The Duke and Duchess are forward-thinking royals and may choose a name that surprises everyone - or will they? - WireImage The Duke of Sussex announced yesterday that his wife, the Duchess of Sussex, had given birth to a baby boy in the early hours of Monday morning. In an Instagram post, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex's account read: "Their Royal Highnesses son weighs 7lbs. 3oz. "The Duchess and baby are both healthy and well, and the couple thank members of the public for their shared excitement and support during this very special time in their lives." The baby is understood to be around a week overdue, with royal watchers keenly awaiting the announcement of the name. From Arthur to Alexander, speculation is mounting as to what the child could be called - and whether the Queen will allow the child to become a Prince. Latest predictions on what the Royal baby will be called The duke and duchess may decide to go with a traditional name like James, Philip or Arthur. However, the pair are forward-thinking royals and may decide to surprise everyone when naming their first child. Canadian-born Autumn Phillips, and husband Peter Phillips, opted for a non-traditional name for their daughter Savannah - the Queen's first great-grandchild - in 2010. Today, William Hill have a new favourite name - Spencer at 4/1 - the maiden name of Prince Harry's late mother Princess Dianna. Other top picks for the royal baby boy are James and Alexander, both at 5/1. Princess Charlotte stands next to Savannah Phillips and Prince George at Trooping The Colour 2018 Credit: Karwai Tang/WireImage The Duchess may also seek inspiration from her friends. Her confidante and stylist Jessica Mulroney has twin boys called Brian and John, who were pageboys at the royal wedding. In the US, the most popular name is Liam for a baby boy. In the UK, the most popular name for a boy is Oliver. Harry and Meghan's child, who will be seventh in line to the throne, is extremely unlikely ever to be king, meaning the couple have more freedom with their choices. In comparison, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge chose to give their children traditional names, picking George for their firstborn, who is likely to one day be king. Story continues What are the Royal baby name odds? These odds from William Hill were last updated on May 8, 2019. Spencer 4/1 James 5/1 Alexander 5/1 Arthur 6/1 Philip 6/1 Albert 8/1 Theodore 12/1 Gregory 14/1 Oliver 16/1 Grey 20/1 What title will the Royal baby have (and why the baby won't necessarily be a Prince) The firstborn son of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex is expected to be given the title of the Earl of Dumbarton, unless the Queen makes an unexpected last-minute intervention. The baby boy, who has been nicknamed Baby Sussex by fans in a moniker later adopted by his parents, will not automatically be a prince or have the style "His Royal Highness". The Queen intervened for Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis, the children of a future king, in order for them to inherit the titles in a public announcement published months before George's birth. It is considered unlikely, although not impossible, that the Sussexes son will be styled similarly. He is expected to be known formally as the Earl of Dumbarton, because a first son of a duke is allowed to use one of his father's other lesser titles as a courtesy title. The Scottish title - which refers to Dumbarton on the north bank of the River Clyde, to the west of Glasgow - was given to Prince Harry by the Queen on the morning of his wedding. A daughter would have been Lady [firstname] Mountbatten-Windsor, rather than the Countess of Dumbarton as daughters are not allowed to take on such titles due to the longheld convention of primogeniture in hereditary peerages. As a boy, Baby Sussex will one day inherit the title the Duke of Sussex from his father. The tradition dates back to a 1917 decree made by George V, which specified that the style "HRH" and the title "prince" or "princess" can be borne by children of the sovereign, children of the sovereign's sons, and the eldest son of the eldest son of the Prince of Wales. Of the Queen's grandchildren, Prince William, Prince Harry, Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie, the children of her two elder sons, have the HRH title, while Peter and Zara Phillips, children of her daughter the Princess Royal, do not. When Prince Edward - the youngest of the Queen's children - married, he was named as an Earl rather than a Duke, and it was made clear that his children would be styled as Earl and Lady without an HRH title. In December 2012, before the sex of the Cambridge's first child was known, the Queen issued a Letters Patent to extend the title to all of Prince William's future offspring to avoid the difficulty of a firstborn girl not being styled as Princess despite being a future queen. A formal announcement in the London Gazette read: "The Queen has been pleased by Letters Patent under the Great Seal of the Realm dated 31 December, 2012 to declare that all the children of the eldest son of the Prince of Wales should have and enjoy the style, title and attribute of Royal Highness with the titular dignity of Prince or Princess prefixed to their Christian names or with such other titles of honour." No such Letters Patent has yet been issued for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex's children. The new arrival is seventh in line to the throne and moves Prince Harry's uncle, the Duke of York, down into eighth place in the line of succession. Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie shift into ninth and 10th place, and the Earl of Wessex - the Queen's youngest son - drops out of the top 10 for the first time to 11th in line. When will Meghan and Harry announce their baby's name? The name of the Sussex's son will likely be announced tomorrow, with Buckingham Palace due to clarify the title at the same time. William and Kate took five days to announce the name of Prince Louis last year, while Prince George and Princess Charlotte's names were announced two days after birth. History behind the favourite baby names George and Charlotte were both favourite names for the young Prince and Princess The Duke and Duchess of Sussex may call him Arthur - a name with a similarly impressive heritage. The most recent royal Arthur was Queen Victoria's son, Prince Arthur, Duke of Connaught and Strathearn. Before him, there was Henry VIII's elder brother, Arthur, who tragically died at the age of just 15. The most famous Arthur, of course, is the one we aren't sure existed: romantic hero King Arthur and his Knights of the Round Table. Edward and James have been popular names for kings in the past, but Philip is more of a rogue contender. The first royal Philip was James VII's brother-in-law Prince Philippe I, Duke of Orleans. Since then, there has not been another royal Philip - until Queen Elizabeth II's husband, Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh. Naming their child Philip may be a way for the Duke of Sussex to pay tribute to his grandfather. Keep up to date with the Royal family by signing up to our weekly newsletter, Your Royal Appointment. By Jonathan Allen and Joseph Ax (Reuters) - In two U.S. school shootings within eight days, students have attempted to tackle the shooters, sometimes at the cost of their own lives, drawing praise for reducing the bloodshed by taking a step that experts agree should only be a last resort. At the University of North Carolina at Charlotte last week, Riley Howell, 21, was killed as he challenged a gunman in his classroom after school officials sent out an emergency alert with a mantra disseminated by U.S. law enforcement: "Run, Hide, Fight." The three-pronged approach has been endorsed by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security since at least 2012 as part of a public safety campaign, and has been adopted by many workplaces and colleges, including Cornell and Tennessee State universities, as their standard response to on-site shooters. It is less common in high schools. But that did not stop several students from charging the shooters who opened fire the Science, Technology, Engineering and Math School near Denver on Tuesday, according to witnesses. Kendrick Ray Castillo, 18, the only person killed, was among those rushing the shooters, preventing further loss of life. Eight people were wounded. That school is part of the Douglas County School District, which has adopted what is known as the Standard Response Protocol for shooters and other emergencies, according to its website. The protocol calls for the school to go into lockdown by locking classroom doors, turning out lights and keeping students quiet. Both approaches have their risks - an inevitability when confronting a life-or-death situation. "If you're in a high school cafeteria and someone starts shooting, you don't have the ability to hide or lock out at that point," said Gary Sigrist, a school security consultant with Safeguard Risk Solutions. "So you teach people, here's what you can do in an event. That includes, if you choose, going after the attacker." In Monday's Colorado shooting, one of the shooters was already in a classroom when he pulled out his handgun. Brendan Bialy, a student enrolled in the Marine Corps Delayed Entry Program, was among the students who rushed the shooter and survived. Chris Dorn, an analyst at the security consultancy Safe Havens International, noted similarities between Bialy and Howell, who was described as a muscular athlete by friends and family and was a member of the U.S. Army Reserve Officer Training Corps program. "The risk of all this is that while it's good to highlight heroic actions it can be dangerous to give the impression that this is what all school staff should do," Dorn said. "Every school has those types of people and we want schools to leverage them but it's kind of dangerous to apply those concepts to the whole population." Dorn advises against "Run, Hide, Fight" approaches for safety programs at high schools. A typical high school, with its warrens of small, lockable classrooms and a stable regular population that can practice drills, is suited to lockdowns. The value of "Run, Hide, Fight" is greater during shootings in public settings like shopping malls, plazas or certain college campuses, Dorn said. The official DHS guidance is to run if possible; quietly hide, ideally in a place that can be locked, if fleeing is not possible; and, fight only as "an absolute last resort." "Commit to your actions and act as aggressively as possible against the shooter," the DHS guidance reads, urging to get others to help ambush the shooter with chairs, fire extinguishers, scissors or other improvised weapons. "Be prepared to cause severe or lethal injury to the shooter." (The story fixes typographical error in final paragraph to read "possible" instead of "possibly") (Reporting by Jonathan Allen and Joseph Ax in New York; Editing by Scott Malone and Bill Trott) By Jonathan Allen and Joseph Ax (Reuters) - In two U.S. school shootings within eight days, students have attempted to tackle the shooters, sometimes at the cost of their own lives, drawing praise for reducing the bloodshed by taking a step that experts agree should only be a last resort. At the University of North Carolina at Charlotte last week, Riley Howell, 21, was killed as he challenged a gunman in his classroom after school officials sent out an emergency alert with a mantra disseminated by U.S. law enforcement: "Run, Hide, Fight." The three-pronged approach has been endorsed by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security since at least 2012 as part of a public safety campaign, and has been adopted by many workplaces and colleges, including Cornell and Tennessee State universities, as their standard response to on-site shooters. It is less common in high schools. But that did not stop several students from charging the shooters who opened fire the Science, Technology, Engineering and Math School near Denver on Tuesday, according to witnesses. Kendrick Ray Castillo, 18, the only person killed, was among those rushing the shooters, preventing further loss of life. Eight people were wounded. That school is part of the Douglas County School District, which has adopted what is known as the Standard Response Protocol for shooters and other emergencies, according to its website. The protocol calls for the school to go into lockdown by locking classroom doors, turning out lights and keeping students quiet. Both approaches have their risks - an inevitability when confronting a life-or-death situation. "If you're in a high school cafeteria and someone starts shooting, you don't have the ability to hide or lock out at that point," said Gary Sigrist, a school security consultant with Safeguard Risk Solutions. "So you teach people, here's what you can do in an event. That includes, if you choose, going after the attacker." Story continues In Monday's Colorado shooting, one of the shooters was already in a classroom when he pulled out his handgun. Brendan Bialy, a student enrolled in the Marine Corps Delayed Entry Program, was among the students who rushed the shooter and survived. Chris Dorn, an analyst at the security consultancy Safe Havens International, noted similarities between Bialy and Howell, who was described as a muscular athlete by friends and family and was a member of the U.S. Army Reserve Officer Training Corps program. "The risk of all this is that while it's good to highlight heroic actions it can be dangerous to give the impression that this is what all school staff should do," Dorn said. "Every school has those types of people and we want schools to leverage them but it's kind of dangerous to apply those concepts to the whole population." Dorn advises against "Run, Hide, Fight" approaches for safety programs at high schools. A typical high school, with its warrens of small, lockable classrooms and a stable regular population that can practice drills, is suited to lockdowns. The value of "Run, Hide, Fight" is greater during shootings in public settings like shopping malls, plazas or certain college campuses, Dorn said. The official DHS guidance is to run if possible; quietly hide, ideally in a place that can be locked, if fleeing is not possible; and, fight only as "an absolute last resort." "Commit to your actions and act as aggressively as possible against the shooter," the DHS guidance reads, urging to get others to help ambush the shooter with chairs, fire extinguishers, scissors or other improvised weapons. "Be prepared to cause severe or lethal injury to the shooter." (Reporting by Jonathan Allen and Joseph Ax in New York; Editing by Scott Malone and Bill Trott) From being one of the world's fastest growing domestic air travel market, India has dropped down to 4th position, according to the International Air Transport Association (IATA). This is primarily due to a sharp surge in airfares after Jet Airways began reducing flights from earlier this year, grounding of Spice-Jet's Boeing 737 Max and the overall economic slowdown in India. According to the trade association, presently, Russia, the US and Japan are the top three growing markets. "Domestic demand (overall globally) rose 4.1% in March, which was a deceleration from 6.2% growth recorded in February, driven largely by developments in China and India. India's domestic traffic rose just 3.1% in March, down from February's growth of 8.3% and well off the torrid five-year average growth pace of close to 20% per month. The slowdown largely reflects reduction in flight operations of Jet Airways- which stopped flying in April- as well as disruptions at Mumbai airport owing to construction," The Times of India quoted IATA as saying. As per reports, this is so far the sharpest fall that has been witnessed by a major market like India. India had seen double-digit growth for 52 straight months with the last month being December 2018. At that time India had 1.3 crore domestic passengers, which was up 12.9% as compared to December 2017. However, in January and February this year, the domestic growth rate had declined to 9.1% and 5.6%, respectively. To cope up with the slowdown blues, the government is trying to revive demand by facilitating other airlines, mainly SpiceJet, to acquire Jet's planes and airport slots. Other airlines reportedly are taking in Jet's crew members. (Edited by: Nehal Solanki) Also read: HDFC puts Jet Airways' office space for sale to recover Rs 414 cr Also read: Taj Hotels offers jobs to grounded Jet Airways employees Voters register with African National Congress volunteers before casting their ballot - AP A Kremlin-linked Russian misinformation outfit attempted to sway Wednesdays general election in South Africa in favour of the ruling African National Congress, according to documents obtained by investigators. An organisation with ties to Yevgeny Prigozhin, a businessman close to Vladimir Putin, the Russian president, allegedly drew up plans to discredit South African opposition parties, including the pro-western Democratic Alliance. The claims, which emerged as voting was underway in South Africa, are the latest to link Mr Prigozhin to a growing network of Russian influence over the continents politics. Known as Putins chef because his company provided catering services to the Kremlin, the businessman may have deployed as many as 200 political strategists across the continent to help sitting presidents win elections, Russian newspapers have reported. Mr Prigozhin, who is also linked to the paramilitary Wagner Group, is under US sanctions after he was accused of running an online troll factory to bolster Donald Trump in the 2016 election. People queue in the early morning cold to cast their votes in the mining settlement of Bekkersdal Credit: AP Photo/Ben Curtis Attempts to influence South Africas election were coordinated by Peter Bychkov, a political strategist working for Mr Prigozhin, according to documents obtained by the Daily Maverick, a respected South African newspaper, and the Dossier Centre, a London-based investigative unit. Funded by Mikhail Khordovkosky, a Russian oligarch and Putin critic, the Dossier Centre says it investigates the criminal activities of various people associated with the Kremlin. Mr Bychkovs team purportedly created a think tank to act as a vehicle to tarnish Mmusi Maimane, the DA leader, and Julius Malema, the populist leader of the far-left Economic Freedom Fighters. The team drew up documents, obtained by the investigators, that listed its proposed tactics, ranging from generating and disseminating video content and coordinating with a loyal pool of journalists to find ways "to discredit" the opposition. Story continues While it is not unusual for political parties to engage foreign political strategists, most spin doctors act on a commercial basis rather than for shadowy outfits linked to foreign governments. There is no evidence to suggest that Cyril Ramaphosa, South Africas president and the leader of the ANC, was aware of the plans or whether they were ever implemented. Given that opinion polls show the ANC winning an overall majority, it is unclear what the Russian group hoped to achieve. However, the documents show it predicted, disingenuously, that the party would fall short of 50 percent, raising the possibility of Mr Ramaphosa having to rule in coalition with Mr Malema - an attempt, perhaps, to show its indispensability should the ANC achieve a clear win. Other documents suggest that Mr Prighozin also hoped to secure lucrative assets in South Africa's mining sector and to sign a deal to sell the government arms. The allegations may cast a shadow over Mr Ramaphosas predicted victory. But, despite growing political disillusionment, election day in South Africa still evinces an atmosphere rarely seen elsewhere, with older black voters still revelling in an experience that was denied them so long under apartheid. Emily Sefelane, a 62-year-old domestic worker voting in the Johannesburg suburb of Houghton, remembered how tough life used to be before white rule ended. It was so hard here in those days, she said, recalling how she and her friends were often detained by police because they did not have permission to work in Johannesburg. But if voting remains an exciting and moving experience for older black South Africans, the countrys younger generation are turning away from politics amid anger over corruption and the governments failure to lower unemployment, lift the economy and reduce inequality. Some six million people, most of them thought to be young, failed to register to vote and although the ANC will win, enthusiasm for the party that Nelson Mandela led to triumph a quarter of a century ago on Friday is arguably more tepid than it has ever been. By Stevo Vasiljevic PODGORICA, May 9 (Reuters) - Two Russian intelligence officers and two opposition politicians were among 13 people sentenced on Thursday over a 2016 election day plot aimed at toppling Montenegro's government, killing the prime minister and bringing a pro-Russian alliance to power. The verdict given in the heavily guarded Montenegro court said that on Oct. 16, 2016, the accused planned to attack state institutions and kill then-Prime Minister Milo Djukanovic, who has led the Adriatic country almost continuously, either as prime minister or president, for three decades. The two Russian nationals, identified in court as Eduard Shishmakov and Vladimir Popov and described as Russia's military intelligence officers, were sentenced in absentia to jail terms of 15 and 12 years respectively. Moscow has repeatedly dismissed accusations about their role as absurd. All the accused denied wrongdoing. Under Montenegrin law, they have the right to appeal to the higher court. The verdict said that one of the aims of the coup attempt was to prevent Montenegro, which became independent in 2006 after it split from Serbia, from joining NATO, which it did in June 2017. Montenegro also wants to join the European Union. "Every member of the criminal organization had a predetermined task and role," Judge Suzana Mugosa said at the end of the 19 month trial. "All included in the indictment are guilty for attempting an act of terrorism." "In the functioning of (this) criminal group there was the readiness for the use of violence and intimidation," she said. Montenegro's opposition, which supports weekly anti-government protests in Podgorica, accused the authorities of fabricating the plot to secure the narrow election victory for Djukanovic and his Democratic Party of Socialists in 2016. Andrija Mandic and Milan Knezevic, leaders of the Democratic Front, an opposition alliance that wants to depose Djukanovic, who has been the president since 2018, and seeks closer ties with Serbia and Russia, received five-year jail terms each. Story continues They were also absent from the court. Earlier in the day Knezevic told local Vijesti TV that he and Mandic would await sentencing with their "most trustworthy men" somewhere in Podgorica. Bratislav Dikic, a retired Serbian police general, was sentenced to eight years in jail. Although the court building and the surrounding area was heavily guarded by police armed with submachine guns, there were no incidents. (Writing by Aleksandar Vasovic; Editing by Alison Williams) Looking to up your appreciation of the arts? We've rounded up four artsy events around San Diego this week that will scratch your cultural itch, from a live music and art show to an art collection reception. Hoodline offers data-driven analysis of local happenings and trends across cities. Links included in this article may earn Hoodline a commission on clicks and transactions. The Edge: Live Music, Pop-Up Art Show, Delicious Bites and Craft Cocktails From the event description: Enjoy a pre-concert "Art Meets Jazz" exhibit featuring regional visual artists. Tickets include delicious bites and one craft cocktail. The first 60 ticket-holders to will receive a copy of Gilbert Castellanos Underground CD, which won San Diego Music Awards Album of the Year. When: Saturday, May 11, 7-10 p.m. Where: IDEA1, 895 Park Blvd. (Use F Street Entrance) Price: $15-$50. More ticket options available. Click here for more details, and to get your tickets City Ballet's 'Mozart's Requiem' From the event description: Just before completing this Requiem Mass, Mozart died, leaving the world one last, if unfinished, masterpiece. City Ballet of San Diego resident choreographer Elizabeth Wistrich has spun his masterpiece into one of her own, creating a haunting vision of Mozart's magnificent score. This ballet features the entire company of dancers, the City Ballet Orchestra and the 80-voice Pacific Coast Chorale, conducted by John Nettles. Rounding out this transformative and moving performance at the Spreckels Theatre is the world premiere of a new work by City Ballet resident choreographer Geoff Gonzalez. When: Friday, May 10, 8 p.m. Where: Spreckels Theatre, 121 Broadway Price: $26.75 - $41.25 Click here for more details, and to get your tickets All-Female Cast to Perform '1776 The Musical,' presented by JCompany Youth Theatre From the event description: Tony Award-winning "1776 The Musical" is coming to the Garfield Theatre and will be led by an all-female cast. Presented by the JCompany Youth Theatre and directed by Joey Landwehr, the story dramatizes the events and people surrounding the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The story follows John Adams of Massachusetts, Benjamin Franklin of Pennsylvania and Thomas Jefferson of Virginia as they attempt to convince the members of the Second Continental Congress to vote for independence from the British monarchy. Story continues When: Saturday, May 11, 8:00 p.m. Where: Garfield Theatre, 4126 Executive Drive Price: $17 Click here for more details, and to get your tickets The Floral Show for Mother's Day From the event description: The Erin Hanson Gallery invites you to a special release of a new floral painting collection by Erin Hanson. Enjoy Erin Hanson's most recent collection with a festive affair. The Floral Show will be bursting with buoyant color, featuring wildflower paintings inspired by California's superbloom, as well as a brand-new series of floral still life paintings. Delicious refreshments and live music will set the joyous mood. When: Saturday, May 11, 5 p.m. Where: The Erin Hanson Gallery, 9705 Carroll Centre Road Price: Free Click here for more details, and to get your tickets This story was created automatically using local event data, then reviewed by an editor. Click here for more about what we're doing. Got thoughts? Go here to share your feedback. By Svea Herbst-Bayliss LAS VEGAS (Reuters) - After a one-year pause, the hedge fund industry schmooze fest organized by Anthony Scaramucci, the investment manager who briefly served as President Donald Trump's communications director, returned to the Las Vegas strip this week. But the atmosphere at the 10th annual SALT Conference was much more subdued than in past years, when celebrity hedge fund managers rubbed shoulders with former U.S. presidents at private dinners, poolside parties and late-night gambling at the Bellagio hotel. This time, organizers and attendees said they ditched that party vibe to debate investment ideas and listen to former White House officials talk geopolitics. "The vast majority of institutional investors would rather be sitting around and having a discussion about structured credit tranches instead of going to splashy parties," Eric Nierenberg, chief strategy officer at the $74 billion state pension fund for Massachusetts, said in an interview at the event. "What we are trying to do is very sober, he added. For the first time, investors attending SALT outnumbered hedge fund managers, said Ray Nolte, co-chief investment officer of SkyBridge Capital, the investment company Scaramucci founded and which is affiliated with the conference. There were also more panels at the expense of longer networking breaks. The superstar managers who previously attended including Daniel Loeb, David Tepper, William Ackman, Ken Griffin and Steven A. Cohen - did not come. Avenue Capital Groups Marc Lasry said he opted to watch the Milwaukee Bucks, a team he co-owns, beat the Boston Celtics, instead of flying to Vegas. And at the pool party where musical artists like the Gipsy Kings once performed, there was a disc jockey spinning tunes. In the past there were also private concerts featuring One Republic and Duran Duran. "We want to replace the perception that this is a boondoggle with the reality of what is being offered here," Nolte told Reuters. The conference has taken on new importance as hedge funds are making a comeback of sorts. After facing criticism for more than a decade over high fees and lackluster returns, some institutional investors are returning to hedge funds that pursue niche strategies, in which performance is less correlated to market moves. Among those paying $8,000 per ticket to hear some of those ideas were representatives of the Canadian Pension Plan Investments Board, the California Public Employees Retirement System (CalPERS), the Public Employees Retirement Association of Colorado, known as Colorado PERA, the City of El Paso Employees Retirement Trust and the West Palm Beach Police Pension Fund. Many had come for the first time. Others were Scaramuccis friends and business associates, celebrating SALTs relaunch after two tumultuous years. Scaramucci joined the Trump administration in 2017 as communications director, a job that lasted only 11 days. He also tried to sell SkyBridge, which invests $10 billion, to Chinese conglomerate HNA Group, but the effort failed. In reviving his signature event, Scaramucci was thrilled to report that he drew the second-highest attendance in its history. "The country has to fix a lot of problems, he said in an interview. I don't know if we'll fix them here, but we will certainly talk about them. Panelists included President Donald Trump's former chief of staff, General John Kelly, who fired Scaramucci, as well as former Attorney General Jeff Sessions, former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie and former U.S. ambassador to Russia Michael McFaul. Much of the confab focused on concerns that economic growth may slow, that volatility will pick up and that the stock market boom will come to an end. Nolte is betting that investment grade debt will lose value while assets like residential mortgages will perform well. Amy McGarrity, chief investment officer of Colorado PERA, likes multi-strategy funds focused on Asia. MassPrim's Nierenberg is scouring emerging markets for opportunities. On one panel, economist Nouriel Roubini described cryptocurrencies as "the mother and father of all bubbles." On another, former Countrywide Financial Corp CEO Angelo Mozilo https://www.reuters.com/article/us-sec-mozilo-newsmaker/angelo-mozilo-from-housing-hero-to-subprime-foe-idUSTRE69E5ZU20101015 once again defended himself against accusations that he was a key architect of the 2007-2009 financial crisis. "Somehow, for some unknown reason, I got blamed for it," he said. Several attendees told Reuters they liked the faster-paced program and felt the subdued tone was more appropriate for the current times. "The real test will be if there are jugglers and fire eaters at the pool party," one hedge-fund manager joked. There were not. (Reporting by Svea Herbst-Bayliss; editing by Lauren Tara LaCapra AND cYNTHIA oSTERMAN) Every morning, students at a Pennsylvania elementary school and their principal would recite the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by the leader yelling out a resounding God Bless America! but not anymore. A parent unhappy with the daily decree a tradition at Sabold Elementary School during which the principal said God Bless America over the school-wide intercom after leading the pledge reached out to watchdog group Freedom From Religion Foundation (FFRF), a nonprofit organization with a mission to protect that constitutional principle of separation between state and church. After reviewing the complaint, Chris Line, an attorney with FFRF, sent a letter on March 25 to the Springfield School District Superintendent Anthony Barber, complaining that the declaration violated the U.S. Constitution. Line tells Yahoo Lifestyle that this is government speech and the government cannot promote and endorse a religion. He adds, It cant favor one religion over another. In this case, by repeating and reciting this religious message every day, they are instilling a message that there is a God. Its essentially saying a prayer. God Bless America is a prayer. The song that the phrase originates from begins, As we raise our voices in a solemn prayer, Line explains. The statement compels a belief in God which excludes almost 40 percent of Americans born after 1987 who are not religious. The letter read, The repeated recitation of a religious message in the school setting violates the Establishment Clause of the First Amendment, which prohibits public schools from advancing, supporting or promoting religion. The letter also said that the school district must consider how the messages it sends are perceived by its youngest, most impressionable students, who are a captive audience. After legal research and recommendations, the school district could not deny the claims and swiftly ceased the practice. In accordance with District protocol, this complaint was forwarded to our District Solicitor's Office. Based upon the Solicitor's legal research and recommendation, we ceased this practice, the Springfield School District wrote in a statement released May 3, adding that the litigation costs that would come with standing by the statement also played a role in their decision. Story continues The recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance will not be altered and students can continue to state the phrase God Bless America if they choose. We understand that this is an important topic for many of our constituents; however, please understand that the District does not make the law. We follow it, the statement concluded. The final decision continues to stir debate amongst Springfield residents about whether God Bless America is religious or simply patriotic. Every President has said God Bless America. Its the right thing to do, Springfield School District parent Suzanne Hoffman told CBS Philly. I try to instill in my kids everyday the sense of unity and community and patriotism, and thats what I will continue to do with my kids and they will continue to say God Bless America. Meanwhile, other parents agreed with the original unidentified parents complaint, and supported the districts decision to stop saying the decree. Im glad that our principal made the choice that he made by not saying it over the loud speaker. I think children are very impressionable, parent Larisa Schreiber said. There are people that dont believe in God. Still, others complained that the decision was less of a reinforcement of first amendment rights, and more an issue of being politically correct. I mean whats the next step? Are they going to come here when a student sneezes and the principal says God Bless You?' Michael Puppio, a member of the Springfield Republican party, told the local news station. Line, meanwhile, believes that dropping God Bless America provides more religious freedom to students. Students still have their rights to practice their religion, but now they will have more freedom to do so without the school district imposing their particular religious message on to them every day, he says. Separating church and state is a win for everyone, whether you're a Christian, minority religion or non-religious atheist. Read more from Yahoo Lifestyle: Formerly anti-vaxx mom posts about her daughter's shots, prompting Facebook firestorm Makeup for men' brand War Paint accused of promoting 'toxic masculinity' Man with a week to live hopes to rehome his 11 rescue dogs Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for nonstop inspiration delivered fresh to your feed, every day. Vistara may acquire Jet's planes to support international operations Loading the player... UK court rejects Nirav Modi's bail plea for third time The Westminster Magistrates' Court in London rejected the third bail plea presented by fugitive diamantaire Nirav Modi on Wednesday. Chief Magistrate Emma Arbuthnot heard Modi's fresh bail application yesterday. The next hearing in his extradition proceedings has been scheduled for May 30. He will now be taken back to Wandsworth prison where he can discuss further course of action with his legal team. Rooh Afza shortage during Ramzan spoils festive mood in India; Hamdard Pakistan offers help Popular rose-flavoured drink Rooh Afza has almost disappeared from the Indian market. Every year, Rooh Afza is widely consumed during the holy month of Ramzan, since it's a favourite drink of many Muslims after a day-long fast. The Hamdard Laboratories, maker of Rooh Afza syrup, has released a statement, in which the company has said that the shortage of some key herbal ingredients is the reason for scarce Rooh Afza supplies. Interestingly, Hamdard Laboratories Waqf Pakistan has offered to supply Rooh Afza to India via Wagah border in Amritsar in view of the shortage. Vistara may acquire Jet Airways' planes to support international operations Domestic carrier Vistara is planning to acquire aircraft from the fleet of Jet Airways to support its expansion on international routes. As part of Tata Group's plan to bolster its aviation business, the airline is planning to acquire 16 planes from Jet's now-grounded fleet, reports suggest. Vistara will use the acquired aircraft for launching long-haul international flights to Europe and North America, the daily added. Donald Trump imposes tougher-than-ever sanctions on Iran's metal industry US President Donald Trump Wednesday imposed tougher-than-ever sanctions on Iran's iron, steel, aluminum and copper sectors, a move aimed at stopping Tehran from acquiring a nuclear weapon and intercontinental ballistic missiles and to counter its "malign influence" in the Middle East. A year after he withdrew from the "fatally flawed", "one-sided" Iran nuclear deal and began the process of reimposing sanctions on Tehran, Trump with his new move has now imposed sanctions on Iran's top three exports oil, petrochemicals and metals. German firm Siemens plans to cut 10,000 jobs in a major overhaul German industrial equipment maker Siemens says it will cut some 10,000 jobs in a major restructuring that will involve spinning off its oil, gas and power generation business and creating new areas of growth. The company said it would spin off its division that makes power turbines to increase its entrepreneurial freedom while embarking on a sweeping cost-cutting effort at its remaining operations. PM Kisan scheme: 2.25 crore farmers received Rs 2,000 since April 1 Modi government's PM-Kisan scheme, since April 1, has benefitted a little over 2.25 crore farmers, including 1.08 crore in Uttar Pradesh alone. The farmers have received the second instalment of Rs 2,000 each under the PM-Kisan scheme. However, another 86 lakh farmers, who received only the first instalment of Rs 2,000, are still waiting for the second instalment of Rs 2,000. India's domestic passenger market falls to 3.1 pc in March: IATA The growth of India's domestic passenger market fell to 3.1 per cent in March as compared to 8.3 per cent in February as there was "reduction in flight operations of Jet Airways" and "disruptions at Mumbai airport owing to construction", global airlines body IATA said Wednesday. "Rising airfares in recent months are also likely to have weighed upon passenger demand," it added. Hester M. Peirce, a member of the Securities and Exchange Commission, is worried that the regulator is moving too slowly for the crypto ecosystem. Addressing fellow regulators at the Securities Enforcement Forum in Palo Alto, California (the heart of Silicon Valley) on Monday, Peirce said that one year ago she was concerned that the SEC as one of [the token markets] potential regulators, would stifle its growth. She wryly added: I will admit today that I was very wrong, not about whether the SEC would stifle the industrys growthit hasbut in how it would do it. SEC Temporarily Suspends Trading in Little-Known Bitcoin Miners Shares Rather than being heavyhanded in enforcing the rules as she feared, the agency has instead been too sluggish to clarify or update them, Peirce explained: I worried that hasty regulation would smother the industry in its infancy. My concerns did not become reality. The enforcement actions we have taken to date in the crypto space havefor the most partexhibited appropriate restraint. On the regulatory side, hasty is not the word I would use to describe the SECs pace. It is not the SECs overzealous action that has stifled the crypto industry, but its unwillingness to take meaningful action at all. Her primary concern is that while the SEC has done a great deal to reach out to fast-moving startups, the tools it uses to assess when regulations apply including the Howey test for determining whether something meets the definition of a security are still dangerously out-of-date. To be sure, Peirce credited the SEC for being open and forward-thinking about communicating with startups. The SECs FinHub network has been leading in startup outreach and most recently held a meetup in Denver where blockchain companies came to speak directly with regulators. Indian Government Again Discussing Ban on Cryptocurrencies: Report Unfortunately, she said, things arent moving fast enough on the clarity front: Story continues The SEC has yet to provide guidance to the public or FINRA on any of the core questions. The result is that many would-be brokers and trading platforms are stuck in a frustrating waiting mode; they are unable to get clear answers to questions about how they may proceed in this market. While emphasizing that she was proud of the work done by the SEC and its attendant securities markets, Peirce warned that the current inertia threatens to undermine those successes, concluding: The U.S. securities markets have historically been the envy of the world; I do not want heel-dragging by the SEC in crypto to mar that well-deserved reputation. Hester Peirce image via Christine Kim for CoinDesk. Related Stories CARACAS, May 9 (Reuters) - Venezuelan opposition lawmaker Americo De Grazia entered the Italian embassy in Caracas on Thursday after a pro-government legislative body stripped him of parliamentary immunity, three sources close to the legislator said. "I thank Italy for the welcome," De Grazia wrote on Twitter, though he did not say he had taken refuge in the embassy. He did not respond to a phone call seeking comment. Lawmaker Marianella Magallanes, who also had her immunity taken away this week, sought refuge in the Italian embassy on Wednesday. (Reporting by Corina Pons and Mayela Armas Writing by Luc Cohen Editing by Rosalba O'Brien) By Gabriella Borter (Reuters) - Kendrick Ray Castillo, the 18-year-old who sacrificed his life to save other students during a shooting in a suburban Denver high school, loved robotics, helping the elderly in his community and making people laugh, his friend told Reuters. Cece Bedard, who knew Castillo since elementary school, said she broke down in tears when she heard her friend had died but was not surprised at his selfless act. "There is no doubt in my mind that he would have done anything he thought he could have to help anyone," Bedard said on Wednesday. Two teenagers are accused of opening fire on fellow students on Tuesday at the Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) School in Highlands Ranch, about 25 miles (40 km) south of Denver, killing Castillo and wounding eight other students. Witnesses said Castillo, who was due to graduate in three days, charged at one of the shooters. "Kendrick lunged at him," senior Nui Giasolli told NBC News, referring to the older of the two shooting suspects, Devon Erickson, 18, who was being held on Wednesday on murder and attempted murder charges. "He shot Kendrick, giving all of us enough time to get underneath our desks, to get ourselves safe, and to run across the room to escape, Giasolli said. Fellow student, Brendan Bialy, a U.S. Marine recruit who also charged the shooter with a third student, described Castillo as an unstoppable bowling ball. "Basically when he gets moving there's no stopping him," Bialy said in an interview with multiple media outlets, including Denver's Fox News affiliate, late on Wednesday. Bialy said his friend showed no hesitation. Bedard said she and Castillo both volunteered with their fathers at the local chapter of the Knights of Columbus, a Catholic men's community service organization, when they were in middle school. Castillo loved tagging along with his father to volunteer with the Knights of Columbus, whether it involved carrying heavy crates of fruit for a peach drive or setting up senior lunches. He was especially good at connecting with the elderly people he served, Bedard said. Story continues "He was always there earlier than I was and was always there later than I was," she said. His friends remembered Castillo as a goofy jokester, although his humor was never at anyone's expense, Bedard said. He had a strong sense of self and did not care what other people thought of him, a trait that made him stand out among his peers. Castillo was also a member of a regional robotics team, another community that was mourning his loss on Wednesday. "We're heartbroken by the death of Kendrick Castillo ... Kendrick was a member of @Frc4418, of which his father is Lead Mentor," FIRST, a national nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing youth in STEM, said on Twitter. Bialy said Castillo was not a victim but someone who jumped into action. "I love that kid," Bialy said. "He died a trooper. He got his ticket to Valhalla, and I know he will be with me for the rest of my life." (Reporting by Gabriella Borter in NEW YORK; Additional reporting by Rich McKay in ATLANTA; Editing by Frank McGurty, Phil Berlowitz and Paul Tait) (The story corrected source in paragraph 11 of May 8 story.) By Gabriella Borter (Reuters) - Kendrick Ray Castillo, the 18-year-old who sacrificed his life to save other students during a shooting in a suburban Denver high school, loved robotics, helping the elderly in his community and making people laugh, his friend told Reuters. Cece Bedard, who knew Castillo since elementary school, said she broke down in tears when she heard her friend had died but was not surprised at his selfless act. "There is no doubt in my mind that he would have done anything he thought he could have to help anyone," Bedard said on Wednesday. Two teenagers are accused of opening fire on fellow students on Tuesday at the Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) School in Highlands Ranch, about 25 miles (40 km) south of Denver, killing Castillo and wounding eight other students. Witnesses said Castillo, who was due to graduate in three days, charged at one of the shooters. "Kendrick lunged at him," senior Nui Giasolli told NBC News, referring to the older of the two shooting suspects, Devon Erickson, 18, who was being held on Wednesday on murder and attempted murder charges. "He shot Kendrick, giving all of us enough time to get underneath our desks, to get ourselves safe, and to run across the room to escape, Giasolli said. Fellow student, Brendan Bialy, a U.S. Marine recruit who also charged the shooter with a third student, described Castillo as an unstoppable bowling ball. "Basically when he gets moving there's no stopping him," Bialy said in an interview with multiple media outlets, including Denver's Fox News affiliate, late on Wednesday. Bialy said his friend showed no hesitation. Bedard said she and Castillo both volunteered with their fathers at the local chapter of the Knights of Columbus, a Catholic men's community service organization, when they were in middle school. Castillo loved tagging along with his father to volunteer with the Knights of Columbus, whether it involved carrying heavy crates of fruit for a peach drive or setting up senior lunches. He was especially good at connecting with the elderly people he served, Bedard said. Story continues "He was always there earlier than I was and was always there later than I was," she said. His friends remembered Castillo as a goofy jokester, although his humor was never at anyone's expense, Bedard said. He had a strong sense of self and did not care what other people thought of him, a trait that made him stand out among his peers. Castillo was also a member of a regional robotics team, another community that was mourning his loss on Wednesday. "We're heartbroken by the death of Kendrick Castillo ... Kendrick was a member of @Frc4418, of which his father is Lead Mentor," FIRST, a national nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing youth in STEM, said on Twitter. Bialy said Castillo was not a victim but someone who jumped into action. "I love that kid," Bialy said. "He died a trooper. He got his ticket to Valhalla, and I know he will be with me for the rest of my life." (Reporting by Gabriella Borter in NEW YORK; Additional reporting by Rich McKay in ATLANTA; Editing by Frank McGurty, Phil Berlowitz and Paul Tait) By Sonia Elks LONDON, May 9 (Thomson Reuters Foundation) - A U.S. sex toy firm which was stripped of a prestigious robotics prize over claims its female hands-free personal massager was "obscene" has been re-awarded the honor after an outcry about sexism and misogyny. The international consumer electronics show, CES, in Las Vegas, was thrown into controversy in January after organizers retracted an innovation prize awarded by a panel of experts to sex tech firm Lora DiCarlo for its Ose sex toy. Lora Haddock, the female founder of Lora DiCarlo, accused CES organizers of gender bias, noting sex dolls marketed to men were featured at the exhibition as well as a virtual reality pornography company. The award organizers at the Consumer Technology Association (CTA) this week apologized and re-instated the prize, with Haddock welcoming the move but saying she would continue to press for more diversity within the CES and in technology. "We recognize this gesture as movement in the right direction by CES, but this is merely the first step," Haddock said in a statement posted on her firm's website. "Lora DiCarlo continues to remain committed to working with the CTA on driving long-term change to be more inclusive." Haddock said the CTA stripped the award from her company under a rule barring products deemed "immoral" or "obscene," with a later letter claiming it was not eligible to enter the robotics category - despite having been picked as a winner. The CTA declined to comment on the initial reason to remove the award but said a review uncovered "inconsistencies" in how the awards were handled. "This prompted some important conversations internally and with external advisors and we look forward to taking these learnings to continue to improve the show," spokeswoman Jean Foster said in a statement. (Reporting by Sonia Elks @soniaelks; Editing by Belinda Goldsmith Please credit the Thomson Reuters Foundation, the charitable arm of Thomson Reuters, that covers humanitarian news, women's and LGBT+ rights, human trafficking, property rights, and climate change. Visit http://news.trust.org) Housing Development and Finance Corporation (HDFC) has put up Jet Airways' Mumbai office in Godrej BKC on sale. The 52,775-sq-ft office on the fourth floor of the complex has been put on the block for a reserve price of Rs 245 crore. The sale process was initiated after the debt-ridden airline failed to pay dues of Rs 415 crore owed to the mortgage financier. The amount is in addition to interest and other charges. In a notice, HDFC said: "In these circumstances, notice is hereby given to the public in general and in particular to the borrower that the below described Immovable Property mortgaged to HDFC Limited, the physical possession of which has been taken by the receiver appointed by HDFC Limited on April 16, 2019, will be sold by HDFC Limited in enforcement of the mortgage created in its favour, on an 'as is where is basis', 'as is what is basis', 'whatever there is basis' and 'without recourse basis' by way of public auction, on May 15, 2019, for realisation of HDFC Limited's dues together with further interest, additional interest and rests along with liquidated damages, costs, charges, etc." The airline owes its lenders Rs 8,500 crore and had to shut operations after banks failed to reach a consensus on extending fresh funding." Also read: Jet Airways to stop offering security services to foreign carriers Adding to its woes, a day ago, Jet Airways said that it will stop providing security services such as pre-departure checks, baggage X-rays at non-metro airports, frisking of staff and even passengers in times of emergency to foreign airlines after May 10. This development is likely to affect 38 foreign carriers operating flights to India. Moreover, the Jet Airways' pilots union, National Aviator's Guild (NAG) moved the Supreme Court on Tuesday with a plea to direct banks and lenders to release the interim funding to the debt-ridden airline. The NAG that blamed SBI for the situation of the airline said that certain decisions such as allotment of slots, deregistering of aircraft and giving them off to other operators were taken without regard for the future of its 22,000 employees. Also read: 'Your sacrifices are greater, nobler': Naresh Goyal writes heart-warming letter to protesting Jet Airways employees Also read: Jet Airways crisis: Airline's pilots union urges SC to direct SBI to release funds Washington (AFP) - Patrick Shanahan -- a onetime Boeing engineer who spent the last two years at the Pentagon -- seemed set to lead the world's most powerful military, until a history of violent incidents in his family derailed his plans. The 56-year-old Shanahan stepped down as acting defense secretary on Tuesday and withdrew his name from consideration to permanently fill the post to protect his children's "safety and well-being." It was a surprising end to Shanahan's quick rise to the top spot at the Department of Defense in just two years. At issue are two incidents: a 2010 altercation between Shanahan and his then-wife Kimberley at their home in Seattle that left him with a bloody nose and her in custody -- amid claims that he also hit her. The second involves his son, who was arrested as a teen after brutally hitting his mother with a baseball bat in 2011, Shanahan himself revealed in an interview with The Washington Post. "Bad things can happen to good families... and this is a tragedy, really," Shanahan told the newspaper in interviews conducted late Monday and Tuesday. - Mr Fix-It - Before joining the Pentagon, Shanahan -- an engineer by training -- spent 30 years at Boeing, holding management roles on multiple commercial jet programs as well as on missile defense systems. The MIT graduate earned the nickname "Mr Fix-It" for having put the problem-saddled 787 Dreamliner program back on track. Shanahan later was responsible for all US Army aviation programs with the aerospace giant -- experience that undoubtedly helped smooth his way into government service. In mid-2017, then Pentagon chief Jim Mattis tapped Shanahan to help modernize the Pentagon's procedures for its trillion-dollar acquisition program. But Shanahan quickly drew criticism that he had violated ethics rules with his support for Boeing as a Pentagon supplier while denigrating its competitors, notably Lockheed Martin. Story continues Once he was cleared of those allegations, and Mattis stepped down as Pentagon chief at the end of last year, President Donald Trump gave the nod to the business-savvy Shanahan. Since taking over as acting defense secretary on January 1, Shanahan had maintained a low profile, notably avoiding clashes with the mercurial commander-in-chief. He went along with Trump's demand for more Pentagon resources to help police the US border with Mexico, and to divert billions of dollars in the budget to finance building a wall on the frontier. Yet that put Shanahan in the line of fire on Capitol Hill, where lawmakers were none too happy about the diversion of Pentagon funds, which could impact other military construction projects. With his nomination pending before the Senate, and amid questions about his lack of soldiering experience, the divorced father of three ended the process, as details of his family's past travails re-emerged. - 'Painful and deeply personal' - The FBI's background check unearthed the troubling incidents in his family life, including the 2010 fight with his then-wife. Kimberley Jordinson, as she is now known, maintains that Shanahan punched her, according to USA Today. But he says he "never laid a hand" on her, and that her blow to his face had him "seeing stars." Jordinson was charged with assault -- but Shanahan says he dropped the charges to protect the family. It appears that lawmakers were not fully aware of the incident when Shanahan was confirmed as deputy secretary of defense, and it could have become an issue at his confirmation hearing. The following year, a fight between his then 17-year-old son William and Jordinson left her unconscious in a pool of blood, the Post reported, citing court records. Her skull was fractured. Shanahan told the Post he wrote a memo saying his son had acted in self-defense, but later admitted he had written it before he knew how badly injured his ex-wife was, and that it was to prepare for court. "I don't believe violence is appropriate ever, and certainly never any justification for attacking someone with a baseball bat," he said. William Shanahan was eventually charged as an adult with aggravated battery, a felony. He pleaded down to a lesser offense, and was sentenced to 18 months at a youth ranch for juvenile delinquents and four years' probation -- both eventually shortened. On Tuesday, Shanahan said he was withdrawing from the confirmation process as reliving the "painful and deeply personal family situation from long ago" was too much for his children. "Ultimately, their safety and well-being is my highest priority," he said. Sharon Stone has gone topless on a new magazine cover. In the series of photos, the 61-year-old Hollywood actress fronts Vogue Portugals Sex Issue for May. The racy shot sees the star floating in a swimming pool with her bare breasts visible above the waters surface. Stone is skinny-dipping in the racy cover shoot. (Photo: Vogue Portugal) In another image, Stone wears fishnets, stiletto heels and a plunging leotard while posing provocatively and looking straight at the camera. The strident pose is a nod to Stones most iconic scene from Basic Instinct, in which she uncrosses her legs to reveal she isnt wearing underwear during a police interrogation. Theres a further reference to this scene in another image taken by photographer Branislav Simoncik, which sees Stone posing in a white, leg-baring dress resembling the one she wore in the film. In the accompanying interview, Stone addressed the idea of being considered sexually attractive in Hollywood. She insisted that I didnt and I dont consider herself a sex symbol, despite her femme fatale image. When I entered the business the term f***able was used to see if you were employable, she told the magazine. The studio executives sat around a large table and discussed whether or not each of us was in fact f***able. They thought I was not. I gave this some hard thought as I wanted to work, so I did a strategically planned semi-naked Playboy shoot. Did I fit the part? Obviously not. Did I use my brain to figure out how to appear f***able? You bet. The shoot has already garnered a huge reaction on social media. The magazines editor-in-chief, Sofia Lucas, claimed her first, uncensored post of the nipple-baring cover was blocked, meaning she has posted a second post with Stones nipples crossed out. Read more from Yahoo Lifestyle: Follow us on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter for nonstop inspiration delivered fresh to your feed, every day. MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) Kansas State University officials say a dispute between individuals that led to shots being fired on its parking lot appears to be unrelated to the Manhattan campus. No injuries have been reported after shots were fired around 11 a.m. Thursday. Authorities say there is "no ongoing threat." The university issued a statement late Thursday afternoon saying the original contact between the individuals occurred off campus and continued in a parking lot north of the Foundation Building, where fundraising efforts are organized. The victim, who is not a student, drove to the Riley County Police Department to report the incident. Law enforcement officials are still working to locate the suspect and are continuing the investigation. Kansas State University's main campus is in Manhattan, about 120 miles (193 kilometers) west of Kansas City, Missouri. PRETORIA (Reuters) - The African National Congress (ANC) strolled toward victory in South Africa's election on Friday, partial results showed, though the party is on course for its worst performance in a national poll in its 25 years in government. As of 2211 GMT, ballots in 69.98 percent of 22,925 voting districts had been counted. The tallies put the ANC on 56.61 percent in the parliamentary race, with the main opposition Democratic Alliance (DA) on nearly 23 percent and the leftist Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) on nearly 10 percent. The former liberation party of Nelson Mandela has not won less than a 60 percent share of the vote since it swept to power in South Africa's first all-race election in 1994, marking the end of white minority rule. Based on the latest results from the Electoral Commission, analysts predicted the ANC was set for a vote share of between 55 percent and 59 percent. A poor showing for the ANC would embolden opponents of President Cyril Ramaphosa and risk a potential challenge to his leadership, analysts have said. The elections are the first test of national sentiment since Ramaphosa replaced scandal-plagued Jacob Zuma as head of state in February 2018. South Africans voting on Wednesday for a new parliament and nine provincial legislatures had expressed frustration at rampant corruption, high unemployment and racial inequalities that remain deeply entrenched. (Reporting by Mfuneko Toyana and Alexander Winning; writing by Tiisetso Motsoeneng; editing by Phil Berlowitz and Bill Rigby) South Jersey Industries (SJI) came out with quarterly earnings of $1.09 per share, beating the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $0.95 per share. This compares to earnings of $1.26 per share a year ago. These figures are adjusted for non-recurring items. This quarterly report represents an earnings surprise of 14.74%. A quarter ago, it was expected that this energy services holding company would post earnings of $0.51 per share when it actually produced earnings of $0.39, delivering a surprise of -23.53%. Over the last four quarters, the company has surpassed consensus EPS estimates two times. South Jersey Industries, which belongs to the Zacks Utility - Gas Distribution industry, posted revenues of $637.30 million for the quarter ended March 2019, surpassing the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 11.61%. This compares to year-ago revenues of $521.95 million. The company has topped consensus revenue estimates three times over the last four quarters. The sustainability of the stock's immediate price movement based on the recently-released numbers and future earnings expectations will mostly depend on management's commentary on the earnings call. South Jersey Industries shares have added about 14.2% since the beginning of the year versus the S&P 500's gain of 15.1%. What's Next for South Jersey Industries? While South Jersey Industries has underperformed the market so far this year, the question that comes to investors' minds is: what's next for the stock? There are no easy answers to this key question, but one reliable measure that can help investors address this is the company's earnings outlook. Not only does this include current consensus earnings expectations for the coming quarter(s), but also how these expectations have changed lately. Empirical research shows a strong correlation between near-term stock movements and trends in earnings estimate revisions. Investors can track such revisions by themselves or rely on a tried-and-tested rating tool like the Zacks Rank, which has an impressive track record of harnessing the power of earnings estimate revisions. Story continues Ahead of this earnings release, the estimate revisions trend for South Jersey Industries was mixed. While the magnitude and direction of estimate revisions could change following the company's just-released earnings report, the current status translates into a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) for the stock. So, the shares are expected to perform in line with the market in the near future. You can see the complete list of today's Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here. It will be interesting to see how estimates for the coming quarters and current fiscal year change in the days ahead. The current consensus EPS estimate is -$0.02 on $218 million in revenues for the coming quarter and $1.10 on $1.59 billion in revenues for the current fiscal year. Investors should be mindful of the fact that the outlook for the industry can have a material impact on the performance of the stock as well. In terms of the Zacks Industry Rank, Utility - Gas Distribution is currently in the top 18% of the 250 plus Zacks industries. Our research shows that the top 50% of the Zacks-ranked industries outperform the bottom 50% by a factor of more than 2 to 1. 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 South Jersey Industries, Inc. (SJI) : Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. (Note: Print or Digital Use Allowed. Please credit Stateline, an initiative of the Pew Charitable Trusts. For downloadable graphics, please visit www.pewtrusts.org/stateline) By April Simpson May 9 (Stateline) - To the uninitiated, it can be hard to imagine. Robots with fingers designed to pick mature tomatoes, among the most delicate of crops. A Fitbit-like collar that monitors the wellbeing of a cow. Drones with sensors to identify dry areas of a field or discover crop production inefficiencies. In 30 years, what were doing or seeing as innovative now will be viewed as tradition, said Susan Duncan, associate director of the Virginia Agricultural Experiment Station at Virginia Tech University in Blacksburg. Science and technology will be core to the farming revolution, which teachers and agricultural leaders envision as including robots, temperature and moisture sensors, aerial images and GPS technology, alongside big data that affects everyone suppliers, farmers, traders, processors, retailers and consumers. But agricultural educators and advocates are concerned about the future of agricultural education, given the industrys broad needs and the lack of qualified job candidates. They say part of the problem is marketing: Most people, including students, equate agriculture with farming. The industry gets limited media exposure, they said, but also needs to do a better job of promoting itself, particularly as high-tech. We rely on software developers probably as much as Silicon Valley does, said Eric Haggard, director of human resources, talent management and diversity and inclusion at AGCO Corporation, a Duluth, Georgia-based agricultural equipment manufacturer. The issue is important to states seeking to protect their agricultural interests and grow their economies. For example, in Virginia, agriculture and forestry are among the largest industries, according to Virginia Tech, with an annual economic impact of more than $91 billion and nearly 442,000 jobs. Story continues Precision agriculture using technology to take detailed measurements and adjust on the fly is intended to boost the efficiency and productivity of the farm and the health of the land. According to an April 2019 report from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, digital technologies that collect and analyze large amounts of data, typically by agribusinesses, researchers and public sector officials, can help inform decisions on how to fertilize for soil conditions, apply pesticides to targeted areas, use limited water resources effectively, and estimate the potential profit and economic risk in growing one crop over another. Precision agriculture could even help address global challenges, such as how to feed a population the United Nations projects will reach 9.6 billion by 2050. But too few college graduates have the skills employers need. The food and agricultural production sectors influence more than 20 percent of the U.S. economy and 15 percent of U.S. employment, or 43.3 million jobs, according to a report from Virginia Tech University and Tyson Foods. To be sure, digital technologies already have made an impact. But if farms and producers had the digital technologies and expertise they needed, the United States could boost economic benefits by nearly 18% of total agriculture production, based on 2017 levels, according to the USDA report. Thats $47 billion to $65 billion annually in additional gross economic benefits. The USDA report recommends colleges equip a new workforce for careers in high-value technology. Occupations focused on food, agriculture, renewable natural resources and the environment will need about 57,900 college graduates a year through 2020, but as of 2015, only about 35,400 available candidates graduated, according to a 2015 report from the USDA and Purdue University in West Lafayette, Indiana. People coming out of the communities really understand the farmer, and that colors the way theyre going to think about building the technology that suits the needs of the farmers, said Sara Williams, head of recruiting at Farmers Business Network, a fast-growing agronomic information startup. Whos Team Ag? But agriculture can be a tough sell to students when other flashy majors are competing for attention. Engineering programs, for example, often have ample resources and funding. Computer science academies can give students computers, said Karl Binns Jr., lead development officer and former recruiter for the School of Agriculture and Natural Sciences at the University of Maryland-Eastern Shore, a historically black university. Its very hard to tangibly hand somebody a piece of agriculture and say, Thats why you should be in this industry, Binns said. Binns and others said the agricultural industry can feel insular and difficult to break into for those who didnt grow up on a farm, in a rural area or with an industry connection. While there are efforts to expand the representation of farmers and agricultural professionals, the industry continues to be racially homogenous: Roughly 95 percent of agricultural producers are white, though the number of female producers grew by roughly 27 percent from 2012 to 2017, according to the 2017 agriculture census. Outside of the racial disparity, whenever you go to these agricultural conferences, its always people who are already on team ag, Binns said. If youre only talking to people who agree with you, youre not reaching a new audience. States vary in their support of agricultural education. In Maryland, for example, there are 56 high school agricultural education programs among 235 high schools, according to the Maryland Agricultural Education Foundation, a ratio that advocates say is typical for states. A House bill supported by the Maryland Farm Bureau that would encourage each county board of education to start an agricultural education program that includes integrated classroom and laboratory instruction failed for the second year to pass the state Senate, though in both years it passed unanimously in the House. We get a lot of bills in our committee, and were kind of saying that if it doesnt take us forward, if it doesnt do anything, if its just a feel-good, we shouldnt make it law, said Maryland state Sen. Ron Young, a Democrat from rural Frederick County who voted against the bill because it would not mandate the changes. Maryland educators such as Terrie Shank, assistant director of high school and post-secondary education for the Maryland Agricultural Education Foundation, said legislators representing urban areas without farms often do not appreciate that agriculture isnt all field work. I think some of the reasons the legislature fails is because they dont see farming as being a viable occupation for students, Shank said. Young pushed back against that assertion too. Weve allowed farmers to have all kinds of activities on their farms to produce money, like wineries and breweries and things like that, Young said. Were constantly trying to do things. Agriculture is the states No. 1 job creator, so we do what we can. Finally, theres long been a shortage of certified agricultural teachers. In addition to their teaching responsibilities, agricultural educators are expected to manage labs and community-based programs and serve as the faculty adviser for high school students agriculture organizations. When schools are unable to fill positions with certified candidates, openings are filled with teachers from alternative backgrounds, but advocates say the field requires subject-specific knowledge. Several states including Hawaii, Maine, Rhode Island and Vermont have no agricultural teacher preparation programs, according to a national teacher supply and demand study by the American Association for Agricultural Education. We know one of the best reasons anyone does anything is because someone says, Hey, I think you have a lot of potential, said Ellen Thompson, the National Teach Ag Campaign project director for the National Association of Agricultural Educators. Big Ideas Eventually robots will take over the fieldwork thats typically the domain of migrant workers, and someone will need to control the machines, said Mary Lou de Leon Siantz, professor emeritus at the Betty Irene Moore School of Nursing at University of California-Davis and founding director of the Center for the Advancement of Multicultural Perspectives on Science. She and others say the next generation of farm labor and agriculture workers will require more advanced skills. Todays farm laborers will control the robots that will need round-the-clock maintenance. Meanwhile, through 4-H youth development programs delivered locally through University of California Cooperative Extension Offices, laborers children will be encouraged to pursue science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) paths in agriculture, de Leon Siantz said. Building a pipeline that starts early, as in elementary school, is part of UC Davis ambitious plan to revolutionize agricultural technology. Its looking at creating a major in digital agriculture and agriculture technology that would involve training in the use of autonomous vehicles, such as tractors, for agriculture. The school also has invested in a course on the Internet of Things, during which students create devices that use the internet to turn equipment on and off, and smartphone interfaces and program controls to manage irrigation or environmental control systems for vertical farming, said David Slaughter, a professor of biological and agricultural engineering whos managing the Smart Farm initiative. Virginia Tech is in the midst of its own Smart Farm evolution to develop partnerships between researchers and industry. The agricultural system is so complex and has so many players in it that sometimes people feel like theyre on the outside, said Duncan, associate director of the Virginia Agricultural Experiment Station. They might think theyre not really part of that system, but in reality, were all users or players in some part of that system. Advocates in other states are reaching out to young people in urban areas to tap a different audience. In Nebraska, where 4-H programs reach about a third of young people between ages 5 and 18, theres a push to reach those who may not have heard of 4-H before or live in underserved communities, said Kathleen Lodl, 4-H program administrator with the University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension. In Maryland, where agriculture is a critical industry, there are Future Farmers of America chapters in all but one county, and three in Baltimore City alone, said Shank, whos also executive director for the Maryland FFA Association. Binns, also president of Minorities in Agriculture, Natural Resources and Related Sciences, or MANRRS, has over the past six years helped rebuild chapters on the University of Maryland campuses of College Park and Eastern Shore, and at the University of Delaware, and launch the MANRRS Leadership Institute for underrepresented Maryland high school students, he said. This past fall, Binns said, saw its highest number of students enter the agriculture college at the Eastern Shore campus. https://www.pewtrusts.org/en/research-and-analysis/blogs/stateline/2019/05/09/wanted-digital-whizzes-to-work-in-agriculture Civil Aviation Minister Suresh Prabhu has sought a report on the allocation of airport slots vacated by Jet Airways to other airlines, an official source said on Wednesday. In the wake of crisis-hit Jet Airways suspending operations, the ministry decided to allocate the vacant slots at the airports in the national capital and Mumbai to other carriers. The move is part of larger efforts to increase capacity amid recent surge in airfares. According to the source, the minister has asked Civil Aviation Secretary Pradeep Singh Kharola for a report on the Jet Airways' slots that have been allocated to other airlines so far. The report is to be submitted by May 11. The development also comes against the backdrop of concerns raised in certain quarters about the process being followed in temporary allocation of Jet Airways' slots. The slots are being given to other airlines on an interim basis and decisions are taken by a committee set up by the ministry. Jet Airways has more than 440 slots at Mumbai and Delhi airports, a ministry official said last month. As per the source, the minister has asked the secretary to ensure that all slot allocations have been made on an interim basis by following all applicable guidelines in a transparent manner. The source also said the minister has directed that a final decision on allocation of Jet Airways slots should not be taken till conclusion of the resolution plan that is being worked out by the airline's lenders. The State Bank of India-led consortium of domestic lenders to Jet Airways has already sought bids for the ailing airline, which shuttered operations on April 17 after it ran out of cash. The list of final bidders is likely to be finalised this week. On Wednesday, Jet Airways gave a clarification to the stock exchanges regarding reports that Atmosphere Airlines has submitted an expression of interest along with Naresh Goyal and four other companies. "The bidding process is initiated by and managed by SBI Capital Markets Ltd under a resolution plan undertaken by a consortium of domestic lenders led by State Bank of India. "The company is not involved in the bidding process and has no information with regard to same and is accordingly not in a position to comment," the airline said in a filing. Naresh Goyal is the founder of Jet Airways. Earlier on Wednesday, Goyal's daughter Namrata Goyal said that her father is not part of any consortium. "I'm Naresh Goyal's daughter and this is to clarify that hes not part of any consortium and this information is completely misleading and mischievous (sic)," she said in a tweet. Also read: Jet Airways crisis: Airline's pilots union urges SC to direct SBI to release funds Also read: Vistara may acquire Jet Airways' planes to support international operations By Lefteris Karagiannopoulos OSLO (Reuters) - Norwegian utility Statkraft plans to expand its electric vehicle charging business in Germany and Britain, its chief executive told Reuters on Thursday, and also expects to snap up some more power plants by the end of 2019. The electric vehicle (EV) charging business is a growing market for utilities and Nordic competitors Fortum and Vattenfall have boosted their presence with several acquisitions and cooperation across Europe. "We are looking at EV charging companies in Germany and we are also looking at the UK for EV charging cooperations," Statkraft's CEO Christian Rynning-Tonnesen said. The need for more charging stations is growing as car makers introduce a greater variety of plug-in electric and hybrid models. In Norway, a record 60 percent of all new vehicles sold in March were fully electric. Statkraft's Rynning-Tonnesen said Groenn Kontakt, an EV charging network operator which Statkraft controls together with Agder Energi, is planning to expand from Norway to Sweden. The EV markets that Statkraft is focusing on are Norway, Sweden, Germany, Britain and Ireland, he added. Statkraft has a plan underway to invest some 10 billion Norwegian crowns ($1.14 billion) in renewable energy projects towards 2025. It beefed up acquisitions in the second part of last year, when it acquired hydropower dams in Brazil and India, in addition to a portfolio of 1,500 megawatt of wind projects in Ireland and Britain. In 2019 it also bought a 61 percent stake in the EV charging company eeMobility in Germany. More deals are underway, Rynning-Tonnesen told Reuters. "We are working on several cases that may materialize later this year." Statkraft's CEO spoke on the sidelines of the firm's first quarter results presentation. Similar to its Nordic rivals, the company reported improved underlying operating profits, capitalizing on high power prices which made up for the reduced power generation from hydropower dams. (Editing by Terje Solsvik; Editing by Elaine Hardcastle) By Nandita Bose, Lisa Baertlein and Trevor Hunnicutt May 9 (Reuters) - It may take three or four months for American shoppers to feel the pinch from President Donald Trump's latest round of tariff increases, but retailers will have little choice but to raise prices on a wide range of goods to cover the rising cost of imports before too long, according to economists and industry consultants. The impact will not end there. Trumps plan to lift tariffs on $200 billion of Chinese imports to 25 percent from 10 percent is almost certain to slow U.S. economic growth and, if they stay in place for an extended period, could cost hundreds of thousands of American jobs, one forecaster said. Angered over China reneging on previously agreed elements in the two countries' latest trade talks, Trump has ordered the new levies to take effect as of 12:01 a.m. EDT (0401 GMT) on Friday and would hit goods leaving Chinese ports after that time. The new duties would affect nearly 6,000 products, including many consumer items such as furniture, handbags, electronics, clothing, personal care products such as perfumes and shampoos, luggage, bedsheets and cereal. The tariffs could cost an average U.S. family of four $767 a year, a study from Trade Partnership, an international trade consulting firm, estimated. By the end of 2020, they could lead to a loss of 200,000 jobs, according to forecasting firm Oxford Economics. So far, U.S. retailers have dealt with the tariffs either by absorbing some of the expenses, persuading their Chinese suppliers to cut costs, spreading the added fees across many products to minimize the impact, or by importing more goods before the first round of duties took effect. But the 25 percent increase will make it much harder to find new ways to absorb the cost, forcing most retailers to pass it on to consumers. There will not be an immediate impact on price labels in stores and online. The lead time - between an order being negotiated with a supplier to being manufactured, shipped to U.S. ports and delivered to retail shelves - will save consumers pain, for now. Story continues "There is at least a 90-to-120-day lead time... so three to four months before any new pricing can go into effect," said Brian Ehrig, managing director at Accenture's retail consultancy Kurt Salmon, who advises apparel and footwear retailers. BICYCLES, HANDBAGS Arnold Kamler, Chief Executive of Kent International, which sells bicycles that retail from $80 to $200 at major retailers like Walmart Inc, imports about 200 containers a week from China this time of year. "We would like to raise prices immediately," he said, but Kent's major retail partners have policies that prevent that. Most major retailers require about 60 days for new prices to work through their systems, he said. "We will need to raise prices, if it goes through, in 60 to 90 days," said Kamler, adding that the company has less than two months of inventory on hand. Sherrill Mosee, owner of Philadelphia-based MinkeeBlue, which sells work and travel tote bags for women on websites like Amazon.com Inc, said her company cannot absorb the new 25 percent tariff on top of the 10 percent tariff hike last year, which itself added to the existing 17.6 percent tariff on synthetic leather used to make her bags. Mosee, who put in a new order for 1,500 bags from China just days before Trump announced plans to increase the tariff rate to 25 percent, said she plans to raise the price "a little" on the new bags, which are scheduled to arrive by early July. The National Retail Federation said hundreds of thousands of businesses around the country will be burdened by the China tariffs. The trade group and others like the Retail Industry Leaders Association have repeatedly said tariffs are taxes paid by U.S. businesses and consumers, not by China. Trump's levies on shipments from China have so far barely been a blip for the U.S. economy, trimming growth by an estimated tenth of a percentage point for all of 2019, according to Oxford Economics. Goldman Sachs said increasing the tariff on the $200 billion in imports to 25 percent would triple the impact to three-tenths of a percentage point, taking a substantial bite out of U.S. growth that many economists forecast at about 2.2 percent this year. Many are still hopeful a resolution will emerge. Lauren Goodwin, portfolio strategist at New York Life Investments, said she expects a result that would prevent a full imposition of tariffs for a lengthy period of time. It would take six to nine months for the tariffs themselves to fully impact prices, she said. (Reporting by Nandita Bose in Washington, Lisa Baertlein in Los Angeles and Trevor Hunnicutt in New York; Editing by Dan Burns and Bill Rigby) STOCKHOLM, May 9 (Reuters) - Sweden's state prosecutor will announce next Monday whether or not she will reopen a preliminary investigation into a rape allegation against Wikileaks founder Julian Assange. "At (a) press conference, the prosecutor will announce her decision, which will formally be made immediately before the press conference," the Prosecution Authority said in a statement. (Reporting by Simon Johnson; Editing by Angus MacSwan) BEIRUT (Reuters) - The Syrian has government captured the town of Qalaat al-Madiq in northwest Syria, some of its residents and a war monitor said on Thursday, as it pushes into the biggest remaining rebel territory under a massive bombardment. Syria's army, backed by Russian air power, launched ground operations this week against the southern flank of the rebel zone consisting of Idlib and parts of adjacent provinces. The area is nominally protected by a Russian-Turkish deal agreed last year to avert a major new battle. Qalaat al-Madiq was the rebel area closest to the Russian Hmeimim airbase at Latakia, which insurgents have previously targeted with rocketfire. It was also the entrance point into rebel territory for many insurgents and civilians who were evacuated from territory captured by the army under surrender deals negotiated with the government over recent years. Local residents said Syrian government forces had captured Qalaat al-Madiq and two nearby villages - Tal Hawash and al-Karkat. The Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights war monitoring group said rebels had withdrawn there after being nearly encircled by the army. The fighting has pushed 150,000 civilians from their homes, raising concerns of a new humanitarian crisis in northwest Syria. Some 13 health facilities have been hit in the bombing, the U.S.-based Union of Medical Care and Relief Organizations which funds some hospitals in the area said on Wednesday. (Reporting By Angus McDowall; Editing by Toby Chopra) By Takashi Umekawa and John Miller TOKYO/ZURICH (Reuters) - Novartis is buying dry-eye drug Xiidra from Takeda Pharmaceutical Co for up to $5.3 billion as the Swiss drugmaker refreshes its ophthalmic medicines portfolio with a potential blockbuster. The deal, announced early on Thursday, calls for $3.4 billion up front and milestone payments up to $1.9 billion, Novartis said. The acquisition from Takeda, which is jettisoning the medicine to reduce debt, adds to several big Novartis transactions over the last year as the Basel-based company both beefs up its portfolio and sheds non-core assets to focus on prescription drugs. It is also the latest Japanese-European deal in the pharmaceutical sector following British drugmaker Astrazeneca's $6.9 billion agreement in January to work with Daiichi Sankyo on an experimental breast cancer drug. Expected to close after July, the transaction includes 400 Takeda employees, which analysts from Bank Vontobel in Zurich said gives Novartis a marketing team to sell not only Xiidra but another prospective eye drug entrant, RTH258 for macular degeneration, now awaiting regulatory approval. "Despite generic competition...we think that Xiidra is sufficiently differentiated," Vontobel analyst Stefan Schneider said. "The market (is) big enough for it to reach blockbuster status, justifying the price." Xiidra, with $400 million in 2018 sales and approval in markets including the United States, Canada and Australia, competes with Allergan's older Restasis. Generics maker Teva has a generic version of Restasis in Canada and is planning a launch in the United States, as is Mylan, pending resolution of legal disputes. Xiidra has yet to get European regulatory approval. "Following closing, we will explore the opportunity for the other territories acquired," a Novartis spokesman told Reuters. BLOCKBUSTER BOUND? For Takeda, this is its first divestment since its leveraged takeover of Shire in January, part of a flurry of multibillion-dollar pharmaceutical deals as drugmakers seek to buy other companies to combat expiring patents on their blockbuster medicines and renew their drug pipelines. Story continues Japan's biggest drugmaker aims to dispose of $10 billion worth of assets to cut debt, and also said it is selling TachoSil, a surgical patch for bleeding control, to Johnson & Johnson's Ethicon for $400 million. "We are working to strategically simplify and optimize our portfolio, while also rapidly deleveraging," Takeda CEO Christophe Weber said in a statement. For roughly 34 million U.S. dry eye sufferers, tears fail to adequately lubricate their eyes, and the condition can become painful, potentially leading to eye damage, Novartis said. Xiidra, which treats signs and symptoms of dry eye by controlling inflammation, won U.S. regulatory approval in 2016 under Shire's watch and was considered then its most important new medicine. "We look forward to leveraging our well-established commercial infrastructure to bring this medicine to more patients," said Paul Hudson, who heads Novartis's drugs business, adding the company sees Xiidra "well positioned for blockbuster potential" topping $1 billion annual sales. Novartis just shed its eyecare division Alcon into a separate publicly listed company in a $30 billion shareholder spin-off, but only after moving Alcon's prescription eye drugs into Novartis's main pharmaceuticals business. Novartis shares were down 0.7 percent at 0812 GMT. Takeda shares closed up 0.2 percent in Tokyo. (Reporting by Takashi Umekawa in Tokyo, Silke Koltrowitz and John Miller in Zurich, Tamara Mathias and Arundhati Sarkar in Bengaluru; Editing by Sonali Paul and Emelia Sithole-Matarise) By Fumbuka Ng'wanakilala DAR ES SALAAM (Reuters) - A Tanzanian opposition activist has been found beaten and unconscious at a village in the country's southern highlands five days after unidentified people abducted him, stoking new fears of an opposition crackdown. Mdude Nyagali, a young activist with the main opposition Chadema party, was found late on Wednesday at a village near his home town of Mbeya, his party announced on Thursday. Opposition groups say several campaigners have been attacked over the past three years after they criticized President John Magufuli's government, accused by critics of authoritarian rule since he came into power in late 2015. "We confirm reports that Mdude Nyagali has been found. He was discovered unconscious, but breathing ... in rural parts of Mbeya," CHADEMA said in a brief announcement on Thursday, adding that a formal statement would be issued later. The activist, who is not a national opposition figure but is an active government critic on social media, is receiving medical attention at the main government hospital in Mbeya. Tanzania's police force dismissed accusations last week from some opposition leaders that authorities were involved in the activist's disappearance and pledged to investigate the matter. "We've sent reinforcements from police headquarters to help with this case as an indication of our seriousness in determining if there was any criminal act," Tanzania's Deputy Home Affairs Minister Hamad Yussuf Masauni said in parliament last week. Video clips circulating on social media showed the visibly distraught opposition activist in hospital with a swollen face, narrating how he was blindfolded and handcuffed by yet unknown assailants. Opposition leaders, some Western diplomats and human rights activists had also called for his immediate and unconditional release. Nyagali's disappearance triggered an online campaign in Tanzania with the hashtag #BringBackMdudeAlive trending on Twitter for several days, and drew international attention. "Good to hear he has been found. I hope there will be an investigation into what happened," Sarah Cooke, the British High Commissioner to Tanzania, tweeted. Canadian High Commissioner to Tanzania, Pamela O'Donnell, had described the activist's disappearance as "very disturbing" and expressed hope that the Tanzanian government would do everything possible to bring him back alive. Tanzanians took to social media to demand answers from the government about recent incidents of politically-related kidnappings and torture and the attempted assassination of vocal opposition MP Tundu Lissu in Sept. 2017. "We demanded and got him back alive - thank God!" Maria Sarungi, a social media activist who led an online campaign to push for the activist's release, said on Twitter on Thursday. (Reporting by Fumbuka Ng'wanakilala; Editing by George Obulutsam, William Maclean) Tyler Reddick Looking to Tame the Beast at Kansas Speedway Posted by: newsla on May 08, 2019 - 07:49 PM Tyler Reddick Looking to Tame the Beast at Kansas Speedway Tame the Beast, a trendsetter in the men's grooming industry that creates products with arousing scents and energizing properties, will make its NASCAR debut through its partnership with Richard Childress Racing on Tyler Reddick's No. 31 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 at the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series race at Kansas Speedway this weekend. Tame the Beast encourages men to embrace their inner beast with their uniquely masculine grooming products. Products include a variety of scents and purposes, such as the Extreme Yawp Hair, Beard & Body Wash, Nutt Butter, and Caffeine Conditioner. The Nashville, Tennessee-based company uses all-natural, intense botanicals, including eucalyptus, ginseng, and pomegranate, in all of their products. "We're thrilled to support Tyler," said John Cascarano, founder of Tame the Beast. "We're all about helping men perform at their peak, and clearly Tyler is racing at the top of his game." Reddick made his NASCAR Cup Series debut earlier this year in the Daytona 500, finishing 27th after being caught up in a major wreck late in the race. The defending NASCAR Xfinity Series champion is currently leading the points in the 2019 Xfinity Series season, capturing one win, two pole awards, eight top-five and nine top-10 finishes so far this year. Tame the Beast, whose motto is to "Groom Boldly," has found a great match in Reddick, who is known for his aggressive driving style and giving each lap everything he's got. "Tame the Beast is an edgy, bold brand that's making noise in the men's grooming industry," said Reddick. "I think that fits well with my driving style and the attitude of my RCR team this season. We're out there every weekend, going hard to get every spot we can and often driving on the edge to get it. I'm excited to be partnering with Tame the Beast and helping spread their message to groom boldly." This will be Reddick's first Kansas Speedway start in the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series. The 22-year-old driver has two starts at the 1.5-mile speedway in the Xfinity Series, collecting one pole and two top-five finishes. PaddockTalk Perspective Japan's SoftBank Group on Thursday reported annual net profit jumped more than a third, helped by gains from its investment fund which has ploughed billions into some of the hottest names in the tech sector. Net profits for the financial year ending March at the telecoms and investment group came in at 1.41 trillion yen ($12.8 billion), up 35.8 percent. The company hailed gains of 1.26 trillion yen from its investment funds, led by SoftBank Vision Fund, estimated to have firepower of around $100 billion with heavy Saudi Arabian backing. Under CEO Masayoshi Son's leadership, the SoftBank Vision Fund has embarked on a series of investments, one of the most recent being a $1 billion joint injection with Toyota into ridesharing giant Uber to develop driverless cars. The value of SoftBank Group's stake in Uber gained 418 billion yen. The company did not offer any formal projections for the year to come but Son said he was confident net profit would top 1.0 trillion yen for the fourth consecutive year. The fund has also ploughed $1.5 billion in fresh financing into Southeast Asian ride-hailing company Grab. Son said at a news conference that SoftBank Vision Fund is "the most important management engine" for the company. The CEO said all the "unicorns", or venture-backed firms worth at least $1 billion to list on Wall Street, that win investment from his fund are "number-one firms in their own fields". "I don't want to be number two... I have not been able to accept that ever since I was a child," said the flamboyant tycoon. Overall, the fund has set a goal of investing at least $100 billion in firms promising new technological innovations and has taken stakes in some of the hottest companies in the tech world, including Slack, WeWork and Nvidia. However, nearly half of the money in the fund comes from Saudi Arabia and it came under scrutiny last year in the wake of the murder of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi. Story continues At the time, Son said he was "deeply saddened" by the death which he condemned as "a horrific and deeply regrettable act". But he insisted that SoftBank would still work with the Kingdom "to help them in their continued efforts to reform and modernise their society". In December, it raised around $23.5 billion via the IPO of its mobile unit but the shares endured a volatile start, losing 15 percent of their value on the first day of trade. The teenager needed hospital treatment after being stabbed in broad daylight (PX Here/stock photo) A teenage boy has been rushed to hospital after he was stabbed in the back of the head on a London street in broad daylight. Officers found the injured youngster after police were called to Gloucester Road in Croydon at 5.25pm on Wednesday. The teenager was taken by ambulance to a south London hospital, where his injuries were assessed as non-life threatening. The stabbing took place on Gloucester Road in Croydon (Google) Witnesses to the attack said the boy was stabbed in the back and the head. One man close to the scene said: A young lad was near the park when he was stabbed in the head and back and somewhere else on his body. The lad seems to be talking and police are there. Read more from Yahoo News UK: Anglo-Saxon burial site discovered next to Essex supermarket Intelligent men have more children, new study finds Accountant to stars including Rita Ora jailed for six years No arrests have been made and detectives have appealed for witnesses to come forward. Scotland Yard said: "Detectives would like to speak with anyone who witnessed the stabbing which took place in broad daylight not far from Selhurst Railway Station. "Did you see someone running away? Anyone with information is asked to contact officers via 101 quoting reference 7248/08May. You can also call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. HONG KONG (Reuters) - Hong Kong's banking regulator has issued four more online-only banking licenses to units of Alibaba, PingAn and smartphone maker Xiaomi, as well as to a JV involving Tencent, ICBC and Hillhouse Capital. These bring the number of so-called virtual banking licenses issued by the Hong Kong Monetary Authority this year to eight. The introduction of online-only banking has the potential to be the biggest shake-up in years in the city's retail banking sector dominated by old-guard lenders such as HSBC, Standard Chartered and a slew of Chinese banks. The Hong Kong Monetary Authority said the newly licensed banks plan to launch their services in six to nine months. The regulator said it would closely monitor the operations of the virtual banks, including customer reactions and the impact of these services on the banking sector in general. "Eight new ambitious and well-capitalized "challenger" banks coming to market in or around the same time have the potential to inflict considerable damage on incumbent players - as well as on each other," said James Lloyd, EY's fintech leader for Asia Pacific. "Expect fireworks," he added. The latest four companies to receive a license are Ant SME Services (Hong Kong) Limited, Infinium Limited, Insight Fintech HK Limited and Ping An OneConnect Company Limited. Infinium Limited is a JV between Tencent, Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (Asia) - a unit of Chinese banking giant ICBC, Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing - the operator of the Hong Kong stock exchange, private equity firm Hillhouse Capital, and Adrian Cheng, executive vice chairman of New World Development and executive director of Chow Tai Fook. "Opening up critical banking services to retail consumers and SMEs will fundamentally change the way that businesses in Hong Kong operate," Jie Liu, partner at Hillhouse Capital, said in a statement. Insight Fintech is a JV between Xiaomi, which holds 90 percent, and independent investment bank AMTD Group. Story continues "Our virtual bank will enable every user to enjoy the pleasure of using fintech," said Hong Feng, Xiaomi's co-founder and senior vice president in a statement. Ant SME Services is a unit of Alibaba affiliate Ant Financial, while PingAn One Connect is a unit of Chinese insurance giant PingAn. (Reporting by Alun John, Editing by Himani Sarkar) AUSTIN, Texas (AP) The promoters of Formula One's U.S. Grand Prix blew a deadline to collect their annual $25 million in Texas taxpayer money to help pay for the 2018 race. Now state lawmakers are about to give them another chance and make it easier to get the funds in the future. The Grand Prix depends heavily on state cash to cover Formula One's license fees to stage the race. The Circuit of the Americas in Austin has collected more than $150 million from the Major Events Reimbursement Program for F1's only race in the U.S. since 2012. But race organizers missed a paperwork deadline ahead of the 2018 race and were denied their annual payout, threatening a devastating financial blow. State lawmakers have now stepped in with a measure that would let them reapply and get the money. The bill has already passed the Texas House of Representatives and awaits a Senate vote before the legislative session ends May 27. Circuit of the Americas President Bobby Epstein, who also founded the investment firm Prophet Capital, has pumped about $100,000 in campaign donations to state officials and lawmakers in the six months since the 2018 race, including donations to Gov. Greg Abbott, whose office controls the fund, and Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, who presides over the Senate. Other donations went to several lawmakers who sit on committees that first considered the bill or live in districts near the racetrack. Epstein did not immediately return messages seeking comment Thursday. Tickets have already gone on sale for the 2019 race and Formula One has expressed no public worries. In 2015, Epstein complained that a $5 million reduction in reimbursement put the race at risk, but it has survived. The reimbursement program allows organizers of big events to cover their costs by giving them tax money that was collected around the event. While critics have called it a corporate giveaway of taxpayer money, it has been used by big events such as the Super Bowl and the NCAA Final Four. The U.S. Grand Prix has been the largest recipient of state cash by far. Story continues State law requires applicants to submit an anti-human trafficking plan 30 days before an event as part of an effort to combat spikes in prostitution. U.S. Grand Prix organizers didn't file their plan until 11 days before the 2018 race and were disqualified for reimbursement. Within weeks, Epstein donated $50,000 to Abbott and $25,000 to Patrick, and donated nearly $13,000 to members of the committees considering the bill. The bill doesn't name the Circuit of the Americas or the U.S. Grand Prix, but it specifically carves out a second chance to apply for events that miss the 30-day deadline for the anti-human trafficking plan if it gets filed seven days prior, and is used during the event. Both of those details apply to the Austin race. State Rep. John Frullo, who authored the bill, lives in Lubbock, about 400 miles from the racetrack. He said he wasn't asked by anyone at the Circuit of the Americas to make the change. Frullo said his interest is in preventing human-trafficking and didn't want to see a major event like the U.S. Grand Prix get wiped out by a paperwork error. Keeping F1's only U.S. race viable is important, he said. "The economy, the city, Texas and the country benefit from that (race)," Frullo said. "I don't know their finances, but they did everything they were supposed to do. We want to make sure a small technicality doesn't get in the way." Abbott's office did not immediately respond to a request for comment, but a spokesman has previously called the state's relationship with the racetrack a "productive partnership." ___ More AP F1 coverage: https://apnews.com/FormulaOne ___ Follow Jim Vertuno at https://twitter.com/jimvertuno Archaeologists excavate the burial chamber in Prittlewell, Essex (PA) An ancient burial site discovered between a pub and Aldi supermarket in Essex has been described as the UKs "equivalent of Tutankhamun's tomb. The tomb was found during work on a section of road in Prittlewell, Southend-on-Sea, in 2003, and analysed artefacts suggest the body found there may be that of Seaxa, brother of Anglo-Saxon King Saebert. Sophie Jackson, director of research and engagement for Mola (Museum of London Archaeology), said it is the earliest dated Christian Anglo-Saxon princely burial in the country. The find was made during widening work on a section of road between a pub and an Aldi supermarket in 2003 (PA) Reconstruction drawing of the burial chamber believed to be that of Seaxa, brother of King Saebert (PA) Archaeologists have estimated it would have taken 113 working days to build the chamber, which contained exotic artefacts from around the world. Ms Jackson said: I think it's our equivalent of Tutankhamun's tomb. It's getting an intact version of this and seeing how everything is positioned and what he's got with him. Read more from Yahoo News UK: Researchers find Holy Grail of fully recyclable plastic Theresa May could offer MPs another Brexit vote before EU elections Nigel Farage insists Euro elections will change everything She said the site had been fully excavated because, once discovered, it was vulnerable to potential theft. Artefacts uncovered include a lyre (a stringed musical instrument), a 1,400-year-old painted wooden box, and a flagon believed to be from Syria. It is the first time a lyre has been recorded in complete form, and the box is the only surviving example of painted Anglo-Saxon woodwork in Britain. Conservator Claire Reed inspects the remains of a wooden drinking vessel with a decorated gold neck found inside the chamber (PA) Other finds included the gilded silver neck of a wooden drinking vessel used for wine, and decorative glass beakers. "I think the thing that's so strange about it is that it was such an unpromising looking site," said Ms Jackson. "It's between a bit of railway and a bit of road, essentially a verge. "It's not where you'd expect to find it. A gold belt buckle discovered inside the burial chamber (PA) Carbon dating indicated that the male died between 575AD and 605AD, so could not have been King Saebert, who died in 616AD. Fragments of adult tooth enamel suggest he was over the age of six, and the size of the coffin and placement of items within suggest he was about 5ft 8in. Story continues Ms Jackson said it was possible it was the king's brother, Seaxa, adding: "That may also not be correct, but that's the best guess. "There's a lot of debate about whether he was a fully-fledged hairy beast Saxon warrior, or younger," she said. "Had he died before he could really prove himself as he could have been buried with more kit? Gold coins were also found inside (PA) The presence of artefacts from other kingdoms suggest wealth, she said. The chamber, which was about 13ft (4m) by 13ft (4m) and around 5ft (1.5m) deep, contained some 40 artefacts. Some of them will be displayed at an exhibition at Central Museum in Southend which opens to the public on May 11, and research will also be published in two books. The project was funded by Southend-on-Sea Borough Council and Historic England. Theresa May is reportedly hoping to have another vote on her Brexit deal in the next two weeks (Getty) Theresa May is reportedly planning a fourth vote on her Brexit deal within a fortnight - and just before the European elections. The Prime Minister is hoping her much-maligned Withdrawal Agreement will finally be passed this month, following talks with Labour to break the deadlock. Sir Graham Brady, the chairman of the Conservative backbench 1922 Committee, suggested Mrs May could make a final effort to get her Brexit deal through Parliament before European elections on May 23 - where the party is expected to suffer heavy losses. The Prime Minister's deal will be voted on before the EU elections (Getty) The timetable for the upcoming Euro elections (PA) He said he expected ministers to bring forward the Withdrawal Agreement Bill - required to ratify her deal in law - in the "near future. "The executive is very keen to meet the Prime Minister and will have a full opportunity to discuss and to reach whatever conclusions it wishes to reach next week," Sir Graham said. "It's my understanding it's the Government's intention to bring a second reading of the Bill forward in the near future, certainly the intention is before the European election takes place. Read more from Yahoo News UK: Young boys holding catapults pose with dead ducks on social media Boy seen shaking and kicking cat in upsetting attack Teenage boy stabbed in the back of the head in Croydon Justice Secretary David Gauke also confirmed the plans for another vote, telling BBC Radio 4s Today programme: We want to bring it [the withdrawal agreement] back as quickly as we can and we want to succeed we shouldnt give up. However, Mrs May has a fight on her hand to get the bill passed as she has to appease Eurosceptic Tories who are already calling on her to quit after the local council elections drubbing. A deal struck with Labour would also prove unpopular with Brexit-supporting Tory backbenchers. Mrs May is under pressure to set out her departure date (Getty) Despite the pressure on the PM to quit and let someone else take over Brexit, she rebuffed fresh demands to set out a timetable for her departure from No 10 in a meeting with Sir Graham on Wednesday. Story continues He said Mrs May would meet the committee's 18-strong executive next week. A No 10 source said: "The PM made a very generous and bold offer to the 1922 Committee a few weeks ago that she would see through phase one of the Brexit process and she would leave and open up for new leadership for phase two. "That's the timetable she is working towards. She wants to get Brexit done. The European elections will cause a headache for the Prime Minister (Getty) Meanwhile, talks between the Government and Labour on a compromise deal to end the deadlock are set to resume next week, following a second day of "extended" discussions in Whitehall. A No 10 spokesman said the latest meeting "demonstrates the seriousness with which both sides are approaching these talks. A Labour Party spokesman added: "After the second day of talks this week, the negotiating teams are working to establish scope for agreement and will meet again at the beginning of next week. MELBOURNE, May 9 (Reuters) - An Australian jury on Thursday found three men guilty of terrorism after they set fire to a mosque in the southern state of Victoria in December 2016. Sunni Muslims Ahmed Mohamed, Abdullah Chaarani and Hatim Moukhaiber set fire to a Shi'ite mosque in a suburb of Melbourne. Two had plotted an attack in central Melbourne just weeks later and were convicted of conspiring to plan a terrorist attack last year. They had bought machetes and explosives and tried to get a gun license before they were arrested, according to media reports. The three have yet to be sentenced. Australia, a staunch U.S. ally that sent troops to Afghanistan and Iraq, has been on heightened alert for attacks by home-grown militants returning from fighting in the Middle East or their supporters. Last year, a Somali-born man set fire to a pickup truck laden with gas cylinders in the center of Melbourne and stabbed three people, killing one, before he was shot by police. Earlier this month, an Australian court found a man guilty of plotting to blow up a an Etihad Airways flight out of Sydney under the orders of Islamic State. (Reporting by Melanie Burton; Editing by Nick Macfie) Asad Umar appointed as chairman of Standing Committee on Finance ISLAMABAD: The government on Wednesday decided to appoint Asad Umar as chairman of the National Assemblys Standing Committee on Finance. The decision was taken at a meeting of the parliamentary party of the ruling Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) held at the Parliament House during which party leaders expressed concern over the appointment of technocrats and non-elected members on key positions. The committee is presently being headed by PTIs MNA Faizullah from Faisalabad. Under the rules, the PTI will have to withdraw one of its members from the committee to accommodate Asad Umar and also seek Mr Faizullahs resignation from the committee chairmanship. After Mr Umars inclusion in the committee, its members will be required to elect a new chairman which will merely be a formality, because as per an understanding between the government and the opposition, the committee will be headed by a PTI member. The prime minister told the meeting that he would attend the session of the National Assembly at least once a week to answer oppositions questions. He later attended the NA session and decided to attend it again on Monday. It was my choice to become chairman of the NAs Standing Committee on Finance, Asad Umar said. He said he could not attend the parliamentary party meeting on Wednesday, but he had heard that some party leaders asked the prime minister to bring him back and give him some responsibility he deserved. At this, the prime minister apprised the meeting that Asad Umar would soon take charge as chairman of the NA finance committee. In fact I asked the prime minister for the chairmanship of this committee because I have some expertise in financial matters which I want to utilise, Mr Umar said, adding that he met the prime minister for a second consecutive day on Wednesday and thanked him [Mr Khan] for reposing confidence in him by deciding to appoint him chairman of the committee. After meeting the prime minister on Tuesday, Mr Umar had said that he had been offered a ministry, but he decided not to become a part of the cabinet. During the parliamentary party meeting, the PTI leaders asked the prime minister why elected and diehard party members were not being considered for sought-after slots. According to a source, the party leaders objected to the appointment of Firdous Ashiq Awan as Special Assistant to the PM on Information, Dr Hafeez Shaikh as Adviser to the PM on Finance and Nadeem Babar as Adviser to the PM on Petroleum. PM Khan listened to their concerns patiently and told them that some bitter decisions had to be taken in the countrys interest. He expressed the hope that non-elected people would also serve according to his desires and expectations. Later, the prime minister took the parliamentary party members into confidence on the local government system being introduced in the PTI-ruled provinces of Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. He said that under the new LG system, elected representatives would be empowered to take decisions at grass-root level. By Ahmed Elumami and Ayman al-Warfalli TRIPOLI/BENGHAZI, Libya (Reuters) - Libya's internationally recognized government asked 40 foreign firms including French oil major Total to renew their licenses or have their operations suspended, pressuring Europe to stop an eastern military offensive against Tripoli. The firms have three months to renew their licenses, the economy and industry ministry said in a decree, after an official earlier said their operations had been suspended. The ministry cited legal procedures, but the action comes as the Tripoli-based government seeks to drum up support to fend off an assault by Khalifa Haftar's Libya National Army (LNA) force, which has been trying for one month to take the capital. Tripoli is home to the recognized administration but some European countries such as France have also supported eastern military commander Haftar as a way to fight militants in a country in chaos since the toppling of Muammar Gaddafi in 2011. The general also enjoys the backing of Egypt and the United Arab Emirates. The decree was published a day after Tripoli prime minister Fayez al-Serraj met French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris, coming from Berlin and Rome, to bolster his case. Macron had called for a ceasefire but with the condition attached that all armed groups -- including those helping Serraj defend the capital -- be monitored. Haftar also would not have to withdraw his troops east, allowing him to book a huge territorial gain, which upset the Serraj government, said Jalel Harchaoui, research fellow at the Clingendael Institute in The Hague. "Officially, those 40 licenses were scheduled to be expiring now," he said. "In reality, the decree is motivated by a desire to show European states that their leniency towards the eastern-Libyan faction has immediate consequences on their economic interests." Total, with large-scale oil and gas interests in Libya, is the only company on the list known to have extensive dealings there. Others include French aerospace firm Thales, German engineering firm Siemens and telecoms equipment firm Alcatel-Lucent, now owned by Finland's Nokia. Last month, the Tripoli-based interior ministry suspended security cooperation with France, accusing Paris of backing Haftar, a commander from the east of the country where a rival government holds sway. Highlighting France's apparently complex position, the foreign minister of Haftar's eastern parallel government visited France, though it was not immediately clear whether any French officials had received him. ROCKETS In the capital Tripoli, three rockets hit a western suburb overnight close to the heavily fortified U.N. compound but otherwise there was less fighting than last week as life slowed down with the start of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan. The United Nations has failed to broker a ceasefire after the offensive took it by surprise. Its special envoy Ghassan Salame has mostly stayed on the ground but his mission has reduced staffing levels, U.N. officials say. One senior health worker was severely wounded as he traveled in an ambulance car in a southern Tripoli district that was reportedly attacked by Haftar-affiliated fighters, the U.N. humanitarian agency OCHA said in a statement. European countries including Italy and France have taken a strong interest in Libya, both because of its natural resources and because of its status as the main departure point for migrants attempting to enter Europe across the Mediterranean. European countries have backed Libyan efforts that have succeeded in reducing the numbers attempting the journey. Two boats carrying 214 migrants were intercepted by the Libyan coast guard late on Wednesday and taken back to the shore, the U.N. migration agency said. "As clashes continue in the capital, we are concerned about the return and arbitrary detention of migrants in #Libya," the International Organization for Migration said in a tweet. IOM spokesman Joel Millman said the 107 people on the first boat included 12 women and seven children, while the 107 people on the second boat were all men, 92 of them Sudanese, and there had been no reports of missing people or bodies retrieved. In the south, three people were killed on Thursday in a suspected hit-and-run attack by Islamic State militants on the town of Ghadwa, residents and a military official said, the second such attack within days. (Reporting by Ahmed Elumami, Ayman al-Warfalli, Tom Miles, Bate Felix and John IrishWriting by Ulf Laessing; Editing by Catherine Evans, Peter Graff and William Maclean) Photo credit: ISC Images & Archives via Getty Images - Getty Images From Car and Driver In the run-up to the 2019 Indianapolis 500, the Speedway is celebrating the 50th anniversary of Mario Andretti's victory in 1969. Officially, it was the one and only Indy 500 win recorded so far by any driver named Andretti. For more than five months in 1981, though, Mario had a second victory to his name, and motor racing had a moment of white-hot controversy similar to that surrounding the 2019 Kentucky Derby. To be reductive: What's supposed to happen in a race is that the first competitor across the finish line is declared the winner. Fans expect that what they see happen on the track determines the result. Most of the time, it does. When it doesn't, well, not everyone will agree. That's why the 145th running of the Kentucky Derby will remain controversial forever after stewards declared long-shot Country House the winner, despite what everyone saw: Maximum Security crossed the line in front. A rules violation, though, led stewards to declare the second-place horse the victor. That's the first time such a determination changed the winner of the world's most famous horse race, though it's hardly an infrequent occurrence in the sport at large. Photo credit: Bob Harmeyer/Getty Images - Getty Images In motorsport, too, race stewards sometimes determine that a rules violation of some sort requires that they penalize the first-place finisher and take the checkered flag away. One of the most famous cases was that of the 1981 Indy 500, when stewards declared that Bobby Unser had violated the rule against passing other cars under the yellow flag, handing the win to second-place runner Mario Andretti. The ensuing controversy still rages, as was evidenced when Indianapolis Motor Speedway included this video account of the incident in conjunction with the 100th anniversary of the race in 2011. The 1981 Indy debacle played out even more absurdly than this year's horse-racing controversy. While the Derby stewards made their decision in less than half an hour, officials of the Indy 500 sanctioning body, USAC, didn't post official results until the morning after the race when, responding to a protest filed by Andretti's Patrick Racing team, they demoted Unser to second as penalty for passing under yellow. This had occurred when Unser was re-entering the track after a pit stop on lap 149 of 200. Story continues The owner of Unser's car, Roger Penske, appealed the decision. Initially, USAC affirmed Andretti as the winner, so Penske took the appeal further. After another set of hearings and a long delay, a panel of three "outside" judges reversed the decision on October 9, saying that while Unser did appear to have violated the rule, the penalty was too severe. They instead fined him $40,000 even as they reinstated his standing as race-winner. Today, as you can see in the video, Unser and Andretti each remains certain that he was the legitimate winner of the 1981 race. You Might Also Like (Reuters) - The U.S.-China trade war entered a critical phase this week. The following timeline details key moments in the souring trade relationship between the world's two largest economies. (Graphic: Flashpoints in the U.S.-China trade war - https://tmsnrt.rs/2DVZ7mN) June 28, 2016 S&P 500: +1.78% While campaigning for the White House, Donald Trump lays out plans to counter unfair trade practices from China at a rally in Pennsylvania. He also threatened to apply tariffs under sections 201 and 301 of U.S. trade legislation, which he subsequently did. He said Chinas entrance into the World Trade Organization enabled the greatest jobs theft in history. March 31, 2017 S&P 500: -0.23% Trump, now president, signs two executive orders. One calls for tighter tariff enforcement in anti-subsidy and anti-dumping trade cases. The other orders a review of U.S. trade deficits and their causes. April 7, 2017 S&P 500: -0.08% At their first meeting at Trumps Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida, Trump and Chinese Premier Xi Jinping agree to a 100-day plan for trade talks. July 19, 2017 S&P 500: +0.54% The two sides fail to agree on new steps to reduce the U.S. deficit with China after the 100 days of talks. Aug. 14, 2017 S&P 500: +1.00% Trump orders Section 301 probe into alleged Chinese intellectual property theft, described as his first direct trade measure against Beijing. Section 301 refers to the part of a 1974 trade law that lays out how the United States should enforce its rights under trade agreements. Jan. 17, 2018 S&P 500: +0.94% Trump, in a Reuters interview, threatens a big fine on China over alleged IP theft, without providing details. Jan. 22, 2018 S&P 500: +0.81% Trump imposes tariffs on all imported washing machines and solar panels - not just those from China. March 8, 2018 S&P 500: +0.45% Trump orders 25% tariffs on steel imports and 10% on aluminum from all suppliers - not just China. April 2, 2018 S&P 500: -2.23% Story continues China imposes tariffs of up to 25% on 128 U.S. products. April 3, 2018 S&P 500: +1.26% Trump unveils plans for 25% tariffs on about $50 billion of Chinese imports. April 4, 2018 S&P 500: +1.16% China responds with plans for retaliatory tariffs on about $50 billion of U.S. imports. June 15, 2018 S&P 500: -0.10% United States sets effective date of July 6 for 25% levies on $34 billion of Chinese imports. It says 25% tariffs will also kick in on an additional $16 billion of goods after a public comment period. China responds in kind with tariffs on $34 billion of U.S. goods. July 10, 2018 S&P 500: +0.35% United States unveils plans for 10% tariffs on $200 billion of Chinese imports. Aug. 1, 2018 S&P 500: -0.10% Trump orders USTR to increase the tariffs on $200 billion of Chinese imports to 25% from the originally proposed 10%. Aug. 7, 2018 S&P 500: +0.28% United States releases the list of $16 billion of Chinese goods to be subject to 25% tariffs. China retaliates with 25% duties on $16 billion of U.S. goods. Aug. 23, 2018 S&P 500: -0.17% Tariffs on goods appearing on the Aug. 7 lists from both United States and China take effect. Sept. 7, 2018 S&P 500: -0.22% Trump threatens tariffs on $267 billion more of Chinese imports. Sept. 24, 2018 S&P 500: -0.35% United States implements 10% tariffs on $200 billion of Chinese imports. The administration says the rate will increase to 25% on Jan. 1, 2019. China answers with duties of its own on $60 billion of U.S. goods. Dec. 1, 2018 S&P 500: +1.09% (Monday, Dec. 3) United States and China agree on a 90-day halt to new tariffs. Trump agrees to put off the Jan. 1 scheduled increase on tariffs on $200 billion of Chinese goods until early March while talks between the two countries take place. China agrees to buy a very substantial amount of U.S. products. Feb. 24, 2019 S&P 500: +0.12% (Monday, Feb 25) Trump extends the March 1 deadline, leaving the tariffs on $200 billion of Chinese goods at 10% on an open-ended basis. May 5, 2019 S&P 500: -0.45% (Monday, May 6) Trump tweets that he intends to raise the tariffs rate on $200 billion of Chinese goods to 25% on May 10. May 8, 2019 S&P 500: -0.16% The Trump administration gives formal notice of its intent to raise tariffs on $200 billion of Chinese imports to 25% from 10%, effective May 10. Earlier, Reuters reported that China had backtracked on almost all aspects of a draft U.S.-China trade pact. (The story is refiled to fix quote in June 28, 2016, entry.) (Compiled by Dan Burns; Editing by Peter Cooney) Photo: iStock The Miami City Commissions next meeting is coming up tomorrow, May 9, starting at 9 a.m. at City Hall. Want to know what's on the agenda? Heres your rundown of what'll be discussed and voted on, including items pertinent to Miami's downtown. (You can catch the action streaming live, right here). The consent agenda includes items that are ready for approval and expected to pass unanimously as a group, including several resolutions related to the citys youth. One is a resolution to accept funds from the Cities for Financial Empowerment Fund, Inc. to establish a new Summer Youth Employment & Financial Empowerment Expansion Program. The project would provide support for up to 100 additional summer youth employment opportunities within local businesses and organizations, and connect participants to financial counseling. Another item would establish a Gang and Youth Violence Intervention Project, with funds coming from a Justice Assistance Grant from the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, as well as from the Miami Police Department. Another resolution would authorize an agreement with the Miami River Fund to continue educational programs related to the Miami River for three years. Specific to Downtown Miami, a resolution on the consent agenda would authorize the negotiation of a lease agreement with the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) allowing the city to use part of the underside of the MacArthur Causeway for the construction of an overwater pedestrian Baywalk, connecting Maurice A. Ferre Park to future upland Baywalk sections north of I-395. On the regular agenda (items up for discussion and vote) is a resolution directing the city administration to take action to fill in the Florida East Coast Railway (FEC) deep water slip between the park and American Airlines Arena. In case you missed the City Commissions last regular meeting on April 11, here are some of the highlights. The commissioners authorized the establishment of a multi-agency partnership to advance the Strategic Miami Area Rapid Transit (SMART) plan to improve mobility between the citys urban core and Miami Beach. The resolution included funding for environmental, planning and engineering studies to move the project forward. The Commission also adopted a resolution to limit the use of Maurice A. Ferre Park and the FEC Slip to only park and other green space uses for the pleasure, recreation and education of the public. The resolution is intended to protect the park and slip from any commercial development. The resolutions noted above on the agenda for tomorrows meeting, relating to an overwater pedestrian Baywalk to the park and next steps toward filling in the FEC Slip, follow on from this last resolution. City Commission meetings are held at Miami City Hall, 3500 Pan American Dr. SEOUL, South Korea (AP) A South Korean military official says the two projectiles North Korea flew across its country toward the sea on Thursday were evaluated as short-range missiles. The official said Friday that the U.S. and South Korean militaries share the assessment and are jointly analyzing more details from the launch. He didn't want to be named, citing office rules. North Korea's state media showed leader Kim Jong Un observing the firing of rocket artillery and what appeared to be a short-range ballistic missile soaring from a launch vehicle. The North's second launch in five days was seen as a brushback pitch toward Washington over deadlocked nuclear negotiations. WASHINGTON (AP) In trying to hammer out a trade agreement with China, the Trump administration may be drawing inspiration from classic rock, specifically The Who's anthem "Won't Get Fooled Again." Fed up with China for breaking past promises, the administration is insisting on provisions designed to force the Chinese to live up to any commitments they make in trade talks that entered an 11th round on Thursday. In fact, top U.S. trade negotiator Robert Lighthizer and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin this week accused the Chinese of already reneging on concessions they'd made earlier in the negotiations. In retaliation for that alleged backsliding, the United States is poised to dramatically escalate the trade war between the world's two biggest economies at 12:01 a.m. BEIJING (AP) The tariff war between Washington and Beijing poses one of the biggest challenges yet for Chinese President Xi Jinping, potentially exposing his political vulnerabilities at a time when the Chinese economy is already slowing. The U.S. effort to win concessions from China on strategic industrial policies has put Xi's own prestige on the line. It also has cast into question the ruling Communist Party's social contract with the Chinese people: keeping authoritarian, one-party rule and ruling class privileges in exchange for delivering robust economic growth, better living standards and a higher global profile for China. Chinese and U.S. Story continues WASHINGTON (AP) The U.S. said Thursday that it has seized a North Korean cargo ship that was used to violate international sanctions, a first-of-its kind enforcement action that comes amid a tense moment in relations between the two countries. The "Wise Honest," North Korea's second largest cargo ship, was detained in April 2018 as it traveled toward Indonesia. It's now in the process of being moved to American Samoa, Justice Department officials said. Officials made the announcement hours after North Korea fired two suspected short-range missiles toward the sea, the second weapons launch in five days and a possible signal that stalled talks over its nuclear weapons program are in trouble. WASHINGTON (AP) U.S. and Chinese negotiators met Thursday just hours before the United States was set to raise tariffs on Chinese imports in a dramatic escalation of tensions between the world's two biggest economies. China has threatened to retaliate if President Donald Trump goes ahead with the tariff hikes, adding to the heated rhetoric from both sides that was shaking stock markets around the world. The negotiators met Thursday evening. Then, after briefing Trump on the negotiations, top U.S. trade negotiator Robert Lighthizer and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin had a working dinner with the leader of the Chinese delegation, Vice Premier Liu He. BEIJING (AP) Ratcheting up tension ahead of talks in Washington, China vowed Thursday to defend its own interests and retaliate if President Donald Trump goes ahead with more tariff hikes in a dispute over trade and technology. Beijing will impose "necessary countermeasures" if the increases take effect Friday as planned, the Commerce Ministry said. It gave no details but a ministry spokesman said Beijing has made "all necessary preparations," suggesting it might be bracing for worsening conflict. Trump threw global financial markets into turmoil with Sunday's threat to raise import duties on $200 billion of Chinese goods from 10% to 25%. TORONTO (AP) Former U.S. national security adviser H.R. McMaster said Thursday China's treatment of two detained Canadians is a telling example of how China is a threat to the liberal international order. The retired lieutenant general who served as President Donald Trump's national security adviser said at the Munk debate in Toronto Thursday that China's communist party exposes the nature of their system every day and it's time for people to wake up. "Our free and open societies are under attack by an authoritarian closed model. A model that not only is affecting the Chinese people by extinguishing their rights, their rights to free speech, their rights to privacy but it is also affecting other nations of the world," McMaster said. TOKYO (AP) The U.S Navy said Thursday it has suspended its search for a Japanese air force F-35A stealth fighter that crashed off Japan's coast last month, after the allies scrambled to locate the aircraft to protect its military secrets. The pilot is still missing, and Defense Minister Takeshi Iwaya said Japan will continue its search. The Navy said in a statement that it was withdrawing after a salvage vehicle, CURV 21, found debris from the aircraft. It crashed in the Pacific off the eastern coast of Aomori in northern Japan during a night training flight on April 9. It went missing about half an hour after taking off from Misawa air base with three other F-35As and about a minute after the pilot abruptly ordered an end to the training exercise. KAOHSIUNG, Taiwan (AP) Taiwan broke ground Thursday on a shipyard to produce submarines to counter China's growing military threat. The self-governing island's President Tsai Ing-wen presided over a ceremony in the southern port city of Kaohsiung, saying submarines were an effective way to deter a foe from surrounding the island by sea. "We must have concept and thinking of asymmetric warfare," Tsai said, referring to the military concept where a smaller opponent can hold off a larger one using specialized strategies and tactics. China, which claims Taiwan as its territory to be annexed for force if necessary, operates a growing navy that boasts some 75 submarines, including latest generation homebuilt vessels. COLOMBO, Sri Lanka (AP) Sri Lankan Catholic officials said Thursday that church-run schools that have been closed since Easter Sunday bombings are expected to reopen next week, and Sunday Masses will resume this weekend if security conditions are appropriate. Archbishop of Colombo Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith said priests have been asked to decide whether to hold services at their churches this Sunday depending on the security situation. President Maithripala Sirisena met with the Catholic Bishops' Conference of Sri Lanka and discussed measures being taken to ensure the safety of the churches and schools. The bishops declined to provide details of the talks. BEIJING (AP) China said Thursday it will retaliate if President Donald Trump goes ahead with more tariff hikes in a fight over technology and trade, ratcheting up tensions ahead of negotiations in Washington. Beijing will be forced to take "necessary countermeasures" if the increases go ahead Friday as planned, the Commerce Ministry said. It gave no details of possible penalties. Trump threw global financial markets into turmoil with his surprise threat Sunday to raise import duties on $200 billion of Chinese goods from 10% to 25%. Trump complained talks were moving too slowly and Beijing was trying to backtrack on earlier agreements. WASHINGTON (AP) What trade war? For months, the U.S. economy has shrugged and chugged along as America and China slapped tariffs on tens of billions of dollars of each other's goods in the fiercest trade fight since the 1930s. Growth was steady. The unemployment rate dropped to 3.6%, a 50-year low. Stocks soared to record levels. But President Donald Trump's decision to hike import taxes on $200 billion worth of Chinese imports from 10% to 25% could upend all that. "A game changer," Steven Cochrane, chief Asia-Pacific economist at Moody's Analytics, said of the tariffs slated to take effect at 12:01 a.m. SEOUL, South Korea (AP) North Korea on Thursday described its firing of rocket artillery and an apparent short-range ballistic missile over the weekend as a regular and defensive military exercise and ridiculed South Korea for criticizing the launches. North Korea's official Korean Central News Agency published a statement by an unnamed military spokesman who called South Korea's criticism a "cock-and-bull story," hours before senior defense officials from South Korea, United States and Japan met in Seoul to discuss the North Korean launches and other security issues. A separate statement by a North Korean foreign ministry spokesman described the launches as a "routine and self-defensive military drill." Story continues ISLAMABAD (AP) A Christian woman acquitted of blasphemy after spending eight years on death row in Pakistan, but who still faced death threats from Islamic extremists upon her release, flew to Canada on Wednesday to join her daughters, Pakistani officials and others involved in the case said. Aasia Bibi was convicted of blasphemy in 2009 after a quarrel with two fellow farmworkers, who refused to drink from the same water container as a Christian. Five days later, the women said Bibi had insulted Islam, a crime punishable by death. Bibi was charged with blasphemy despite repeatedly denying the accusation. The Supreme Court overturned her conviction last year, and she had been in protective custody since then. SHANGHAI (AP) Patient Number One is a thin man, with a scabby face and bouncy knees. His head, shaved in preparation for surgery, is wrapped in a clean, white cloth. Years of drug use cost him his wife, his money and his self-respect, before landing him in this drab yellow room at a Shanghai hospital, facing the surgeon who in 72 hours will drill two small holes in his skull and feed electrodes deep into his brain. The hope is that technology will extinguish his addiction, quite literally, with the flip of a switch. The treatment deep brain stimulation has long been used for movement disorders like Parkinson's. BANGKOK (AP) Thailand's Election Commission on Wednesday announced the final results of the March 24 general election the first since a military coup in 2014 that gave no party an absolute majority and likely will prompt legal challenges. The commission distributed 150 party list seats in the 500-member House of Representatives under a complicated formula related to each party's nationwide popular vote total. Twenty-six parties were granted seats, 14 of them one apiece, while one seat was held open pending a re-vote in one constituency where the winning candidate was disqualified. The commission's failure to clearly explain its formula had led to suspicions it might fiddle with the total. YANGON, Myanmar (AP) A plane operated by Biman Bangladesh Airlines skidded off the runway while landing Wednesday evening at Myanmar's Yangon International Airport, injuring at least four people including a pilot, an airline official said. Biman spokesman Shakil Meraj said the accident occurred when the Bombardier Dash-8 Q400 aircraft was landing in bad weather after a flight from Bangladesh's capital, Dhaka. Flight BG060 was carrying 33 people, including two pilots and two flight attendants, he said, adding that the condition of the four injured people was not life-threatening. Photos of the plane showed it lying partly on the wet runway and partly on the grass. KABUL, Afghanistan (AP) Taliban fighters attacked the offices of a U.S.-based aid organization in the Afghan capital on Wednesday, setting off a huge explosion and battling security forces in an assault that lasted more than six hours and killed at least five people, the Interior Ministry said. Dozens of civilian vehicles and shops were either destroyed or damaged, and several buildings were also damaged. A large plume of smoke rose from the area and the sound of sporadic gunfire could be heard. The ministry's statement said four civilians and a police officer were killed and 24 others were wounded in the assault. LAHORE, Pakistan (AP) A suicide bomber attacked security forces guarding a famous Sufi shrine in Pakistan's eastern city of Lahore on Wednesday, killing at least 10 people and wounding 20 others, police said. Hizbul Ahrar, an offshoot of the Pakistani Taliban, claimed responsibility for the attack, saying their target was the police. Hundreds of pilgrims were inside and outside the shrine, where a local Sufi saint is buried, when the blast took place. Sufism is a mystical strain of Islam that often involves reverence for local holy figures and shrines. Sunni extremists view Sufism with hostility and have carried out attacks on Sufi celebrations and shrines across the Muslim world. WASHINGTON (AP) Just months after the Army's new training brigade returned from Afghanistan, its teams are preparing for a different type of deployment that will scatter them around the world. Rather than putting all 800 soldiers in one war-torn nation, the Army is expected to begin dispatching the unit's small teams separately to countries in Europe, Africa or other regions where they will train and advise local forces. Army Brig. Gen. Scott Jackson, the brigade's commander, told The Associated Press that while the Afghanistan tour focused heavily on combat operations, future efforts will center on helping partner forces train better and learn to avoid conflicts. IHC granted pre-arrest bail to Asif Zardari till May 15 The Islamabad High Court on Wednesday granted pre-arrest bail to Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Co-chairman Asif Ali Zardari until May 15 in a case pertaining to illegal awarding of a water supply contract to a private company. The former president was summoned by the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) on Wednesday after filing of a reference against the holders of public office, legal persons and others regarding the illegal award of a contract by the Sindh governments Special Initiative Department to M/S Harish & Company. The case is part of an ongoing investigation being conducted by the anti-graft watchdog after the Supreme Court forwarded the joint investigation team (JIT) report in the fake accounts scandal and directed it to file references, if required, after probing allegations of money laundering through fictitious bank accounts. PPP lawmaker Faryal Talpur, Omni Groups Anwar Majeed and his sons, and former Pakistan Stock Exchange chairperson Hussain Lawai are among others being interrogated in the case. Since the matter was forwarded to an accountability court in Islamabad after a Karachi banking court accepted the NABs transfer request, Zardari has received at least four call-up notices, and has managed to secure pre-arrest bail in all of them. In the fresh pre-arrest bail application filed to pre-empt any attempts by the bureau to arrest the former president, Zardari maintained innocence and accused the NAB of acting with mala fide intentions and ulterior motives beyond the scope of Section 19 of the National Accountability Ordinance 1999. The petition read that the call-up notices violated Article 13 of the constitution, which gave the citizens protection against double punishment and self-incrimination. The plea further added that throughout the course of history, the petitioner [Zardari] had been made to suffer on account of political victimisation and mudslinging by involving him in false and fabricated cases. It stated that the PPP leader had served a total of 11 years of jail term in false and politically motivated cases. In the bail plea, Zardari also prayed to the high court to direct the anti-corruption unit to furnish details of the number of cases it had or planned to file against him. He wants the details to be prepared for pre-emptive measures fearing arrest. The PPP co-chairman stressed that there was no likelihood that the so-called trial may culminate in the conviction of the petitioner. Information regarding the fake accounts came to the fore when an intelligence agency picked up a prominent money changer in an unrelated case. In December 2015, the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) began a discreet investigation into certain bank accounts through which multi-billion rupee transactions had been made. Investigators have so far identified 29 accounts which received payments, totalling at least Rs 35 billion. The probe was initially shelved, but resumed almost a year and a half later with the FIAs State Bank circle initiating a formal inquiry in January 2018. By June, the FIA had several high-profile names on its list, but was unable to make headway, for several reasons. The Supreme Court intervened and then chief justice Mian Saqib Nisar took suo motu notice of the slow progress in the money-laundering case. In July, Zardaris close aides Hussain Lawai, Taha Raza and two others were arrested. Subsequently, the first case was registered in the mega-corruption scandal. The then chief justice ordered the formation of a joint investigation team to quicken the pace of the investigation. The JIT identified 11,500 bank accounts and 924 account holders at the start of their investigation. After the JIT report, the names of 172 individuals were placed on the no-fly list by the Interior Ministry. According to the report, experts generated 59 Suspected Transaction Reports (STR) and 24,500 Cash Transaction Reports. Due to the high quantum of transactions, the JIT decided on a threshold of Rs 10 million to track, follow and minutely investigate the flow of funds beyond the immediate counterparties and determine the source of funds and ultimate beneficiaries. It questioned 767 individuals, including Zardari and Talpur, while Bilawal submitted written responses. The investigation uncovered that the 11 sole proprietorship entities were registered in the names of low-level employees of the Omni Group, as well as random individuals, including a deceased person. All the accounts were operated by the Omni Group executives. Photo: Roman Boed/Flickr Here's the most recent top news you may have missed in Chicago. Chicago Cubs looking for fan who flashed white power sign behind Doug Glanville Fan flashed upside-down OK sign on air behind NBC announcer. Read the full story on The Daily Beast. Family of missing Chicago woman believes abandoned baby may be hers The family of a missing pregnant woman said Wednesday that they believe a baby found abandoned on top of a trash can in Chicago the previous day may be related to her, calling for a "speedy and thorough" investigation. Read the full story on NBC LA. Chicago cop charged with inappropriate contact with 3 women while on duty A Chicago police officer has been charged with inappropriate contact with three women while on-duty, police said. Read the full story on Chicago Tribune. This story was created automatically using data about news stories on social media from CrowdTangle, then reviewed by an editor. Click here for more about what we're doing. Got thoughts? Go here to share your feedback. Photo: Dorian Mongel/Unsplash Read on for the most recent top news you may have missed in New York City. Suspect in Florida murder arrested in New York City, claims to be serial killer A man wanted in a murder in Florida has been arrested in New York City, and authorities say the suspect confessed to being involved in six additional murders. Read the full story on ABC New York, WABC. 6 people dead, including 4 children, after New York City apartment fire The children ranged in age from 3 years old to 11 years old. Read the full story on WTSP. City dwellers don't like the idea of congestion pricing but they get over it Most New York City residents oppose a plan to charge a fee to drivers who enter the crowded city center. But studies show that once such charges are in place, public opinion shifts in favor. Read the full story on NPR. Jennifer Lawrence house-hunting in New York City Though shes widely reported to own a house-sized condo in lower Manhattan that she may or may not have ever occupied, newly engaged leading lady Jennifer Lawrence and her art gallerist fiance, Cooke Maroney, were recently spotted peeping around pricy apartments with a high-profile broker from Douglas Elliman Real Estate in some of downtown New York Citys most exclusive apartment houses. Read the full story on Variety. This story was created automatically using data about news stories on social media from CrowdTangle, then reviewed by an editor. Click here for more about what we're doing. Got thoughts? Go here to share your feedback. LHC extended interim bail to Hamza Shahbaz till May 22 The Lahore High Court (LHC) on Wednesday extended the interim bail granted to Opposition Leader in the Punjab Assembly Hamza Shahbaz until May 22. The court approved a petition of Hamza seeking bail in assets beyond income, Ramzan Sugar Mills and Saaf Pani accountability cases against him. The bench ordered the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) to submit the reasons for the arrest of Hamza Shahbaz. NAB officials informed the bench that some documents had been given on the request of Hamza Shahbaz, adding that all papers could not be handed over under the law. The documents regarding the financial monitoring unit had also not being provided, the lawyer for Hamza said. Hamza Shahbaz along with his lawyers appeared before the court amid tight security arrangements. In an earlier hearing, the court ordered the NAB prosecutor to produce documents in the cases. The bench asked the NAB prosecutor to inform the court regarding availability of documents in the references. Defence counsel Salman Butt informed the LHC judge that the documents that were considered as the part of the reference were not attached in assets beyond income case. He added that the case could not be proceeded with, as the documents were incomplete. The NAB prosecutor argued that the anti-corruption watchdog would have to investigate into offshore companies and foreign transactions of Hamza Shahbaz. The investigators were tracing out persons and other sources used to transact money, the official said. The court had directed the authorities to inform Hamza Shahbaz 10 days prior to his arrest, while the statement was still due to be recorded regarding the documents. Butt said the petitioner was not informed about the reasons behind his arrest in the assets case, and related documents should be provided to him which were used to initiate an inquiry against his client. How can we challenge the case in a court if we are not being given documents? The material, which is being used against an accused, cannot be hidden from the person, said Butt. He argued that if it was a case of money laundering, the NAB was not authorised to arrest his client without seeking permission from the magistrate, except for holding an inquiry. Both regulations cannot be merged if the money laundering case has to be proceeded with in the sessions court, he added. The NAB prosecutor said that complaints had emerged against Shehbaz Sharif, Hamza Shahbaz and Salman Shehbaz. Missed the the most recent top news in Sacramento? Read on for everything you need to know. Caltrans manager commuted from San Diego to Sacramento for 2 years. Taxpayers paid the bill A Caltrans manager was reimbursed for about $30,000 in airfare and car rentals plus $12,000 for meals, lodging and other costs from 2016 through 2018, according to an audit. Read the full story on The Sacramento Bee. Suspected DUI driver in three-person fatal crash near Sacramento was in America illegally Ismael Huazo-Jardinez, a Mexican national, is accused of crashing a truck into the Pacheo family's trailer in Knights Landing. The family was asleep inside. Read the full story on ABC10. Search on for missing South Sacramento man with dementia Police are asking for help in finding an at-risk missing man from south Sacramento. Read the full story on CBS13 CBS Sacramento. Streets blocked off due to structural concerns at Downtown Sacramento construction site DOWNTOWN SACRAMENTO Several blocks in downtown Sacramento have been blocked off due to what police are calling "structural concerns" at a hotel that is under construction. Read the full story on FOX40. 178 Sacramento-area teachers to be laid off Sacramento City Unified School District will approve the layoffs at a special board meeting scheduled on Thursday at 7 p.m. Read the full story on ABC Sacramento, KXTV. This story was created automatically using data about news stories on social media from CrowdTangle, then reviewed by an editor. Click here for more about what we're doing. Got thoughts? Go here to share your feedback. Photo: Jerome Strauss/Flickr Here's the most recent top news you may have missed in San Diego. Man possibly pointing a long-barreled gun out of third-floor hotel window in downtown San Diego Light rail service on a nearby stretch of trolley tracks also has been suspended while officers investigate. Read the full story on CBS 8 - San Diego News. Caltrans manager commuted from San Diego to Sacramento for 2 years. Taxpayers paid the bill A Caltrans manager was reimbursed for about $30,000 in airfare and car rentals plus $12,000 for meals, lodging and other costs from 2016 through 2018, according to an audit. Read the full story on The Sacramento Bee. Grunions return to San Diego beaches Grunion season is officially underway in Southern California, drawing crowds to beaches late at night with flashlights to catch a glimpse of the event. Read the full story on 10News ABC San Diego KGTV. Uber, Lyft drivers plan to strike in San Diego among other cities In San Diego, drivers are slated to cease working for 24 hours. Read the full story on FOX 5 San Diego. This story was created automatically using data about news stories on social media from CrowdTangle, then reviewed by an editor. Click here for more about what we're doing. Got thoughts? Go here to share your feedback. By Naomi Tajitsu TOKYO (Reuters) - Japan's Toyota Motor Corp and Panasonic Corp said they plan to establish a joint company to develop "connected" services to be used in homes and urban development. The tie-up deepens the partnership between the companies, which in January announced a joint venture to build electric-vehicle (EV) batteries, pooling the R&D and manufacturing strengths of one of the world's largest automakers and battery makers to compete in the fast-growing EV market. In their latest venture, Toyota and Panasonic said they will set up a new company early next year to focus on technology that could be used to offer personalized services in the home. The pair plan to be 50-50 partners in the new firm and will increase cooperation at their respective housing operations in Japan. "We will put our respective strengths together to offer new value in everyday life," Panasonic President Kazuhiro Tsuga said in a joint statement on Thursday. The move comes at a time when lower-emissions vehicles and ride-sharing services have opened up the auto industry to new competitors, leaving traditional car makers and their suppliers scrambling to find alternate revenue streams. Toyota has been developing connected cars that can share information on usage - data that could be leveraged for on-demand ride-sharing, insurance and maintenance. The automaker has said it will tap into its partner network and its operations which range from building and selling cars, homes and companion robots to expand into new transportation and home energy services. "If we are able to use this network going forward not only to manufacture and sell vehicles but to also provide new services, our future possibilities will greatly expand," President Akio Toyota told reporters on Wednesday. "In addition to cars, I think that having our own housing business and connected business will be a big advantage for us." (Reporting by Chang-Ran Kim and Naomi Tajitsu; Editing by Stephen Coates and Himani Sarkar) Weve heard from Maximum Securitys camp. Weve heard from Country Houses camp. But what about the team that was directly impeded in Saturdays Kentucky Derby when Maximum Security drifted off the rail of the final turn? War of Will trainer Mark Casse broke his silence in a Louisville Courier-Journal report published Wednesday. And hes fired up. Trainer: Jockey like following a drunk driver Casse likened Maximum Security jockey Luis Saez to a drunk driver for the move that ultimately led his winning horse to be disqualified and allowed second-place finisher Country Horse to be named the winner. Its almost like following a drunk driver, Casse said. You dont know which direction hes going to go. The Final turn of Saturday's Kentucky Derby remains steeped in controversy. (AP) Dangerous chain reaction Disaster was avoided in the final turn as the bunched up horses came dangerously close to colliding, which could have resulted in injury or worse for the animals and jockeys involved. Maximum Securitys move led to a chain reaction in which War of Will impeded trailing horses. War of Will was in the crosshairs Casses words published on Wednesday came in response Maximum Security owner Gary West blaming War of Will jockey Tyler Gaffalione for the infraction in a Fox News segment. I think when its all said and done and all the evidence is put on display, frame by frame in slow motion, you will find that the 1 horse (War of Will) actually caused the infraction, not our horse, West said, per the Courier Journal. And ... I believe it will eventually show that if the 1 horse would have finished ahead of our horse, we would have had every right in the world to claim an objection against the 1 horse. Legal action pending? Maximum Securitys team filed an appeal and lost on the grounds that the decision of the stewards who disqualified the horse was not subject to appeal. West reportedly plans to file a lawsuit as his next course of action. Casse took exception to Wests claim that Gaffalione was at fault. People were taking shots at Tyler, saying he should have went inside or should have went outside, Casse told the Courier-Journal. That really upset me. I went back and watched the entire race and noticed that we were bothered not just in the main event, but we were herded prior to that. Story continues This is not likely the last word on the most controversial finish in the history of the Kentucky Derby. More from Yahoo Sports: Pakistan not to support any aggression against Iran ISLAMABAD: Speakers at a seminar on Wednesday said that Pakistan would not support any aggression against Iran and called for strengthening ties with the neighbouring country. The seminar on Pakistan-Iran Relation: Challenges and Prospects was organised by the Islamabad Policy Institute in the context of Prime Minister Imran Khans recent trip to Tehran. The situation arising out of the US deployment of aircraft carriers in the Middle East also formed the backdrop of the discussion. Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Ali Zaidi, in response to a question, said there was no chance of action against Iran. In his keynote address, he recalled how Prime Minister Khan and the Iranian leadership overcame their communication gap during the premiers visit to Iran through some candid talk. It was a very positive visit. Ice has been broken and foundation has been laid for better ties. We now have to build on it, he said in his assessment of Mr Khans maiden trip to Iran. The minister, while pointing out that several countries have continued trading with Iran despite US sanctions, said Pakistan too needs to keep its interest supreme and explore ways of completing the gas pipeline. Mr Zaidi noted that the absence of banking channels had been a major hindrance to development of ties, therefore a barter mechanism was under discussion for promoting bilateral trade. Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee Mushahid Hussain, while presiding over the session, said the two neighbouring countries enjoyed convergences in geography and culture with Allama Iqbal being the cementing factor; and compatibility of interest. There is no incompatibility of interest on core issues, he underscored. However, he observed, there were concerns, mostly in security domain, which were being addressed through an ongoing and sustained security dialogue. Mr Mushahid said Pakistan would never support a military adventure in the region and would not allow its territory to be used against Iran. He said that scrapping of the Iran nuclear deal was detrimental for global and regional peace. Pakistan Peoples Party leader Farhatullah Babar hailed PM Khans candid remarks on terrorism during Iran visit, saying relations can be improved only by beginning with a clean slate. There should be truth telling on both sides and the issue of ungoverned spaces on either sides of the border need to be tackled immediately, he said and regretted that in the past this important relationship was mishandled. Convener of Pak-Iran Friendship Group in the Senate retired Lt Gen Abdul Qayyum said there should be efforts for developing direct air link between Islamabad and Tehran and bilateral trade even if through barter to avoid US sanctions. He said Pakistan would never support aggression against Iran or its diplomatic isolation and economic strangulation. Director General of the Institute of Strategic Studies, Islamabad, Aizaz Chaudhry said that it was incomprehensible that Pakistan and Iran have not fully exploited the potential of their economic cooperation and trade. He believed that border security issues should have been resolved long ago. These issues, he suggested, can be effectively addressed through security and intelligence coordination. Former foreign minister and President of the Pakistan Council on China Inamul Haque called for exploring ways through which bilateral trade can be enhanced with Iran despite the US sanctions and regularising illegal trade. He also asked for seeing why fencing was required on borders with Iran and Afghanistan. Irans Ambassador to Pakistan Mehdi Honardoost said true success of PM Khans visit could be judged by keeping in view the fact that third party has been active to drive a wedge between the two countries. He said there was no conflict of interest between Pakistan and Iran, which provided a good basis for working for developing the relationship to its full potential. He categorically rejected allegations against Tehran regarding security incidents and said that Iran can never think about destabilising Pakistan or working against its interest. The White Houses long-running dispute with Iran is approaching a perilous crossroads one year after President Donald Trump walked away from the multilateral nuclear deal. The Administrations increasing pressure on Tehran has resulted in an unpredictable and tense standoff with potentially serious implications. The two nations leaders say they dont want conflict, but their rhetoric, threats and actions are increasingly heated. A flotilla of American warships and a fleet of B-52 strategic bombers are headed toward the Persian Gulf on the same day that Iranian President Hassan Rouhani vowed to ramp up enrichment of nuclear material unless Tehran gets sweeping relief from economic sanctions. We have never began violating an agreement and will not begin a war, but will give decisive response to any aggressor, Rouhani said in a nationally televised speech. The stated goals of Trumps maximum pressure campaign are to obtain more constraints on Irans missile and nuclear technology, while also forcing Tehran to halt support for proxy forces in Yemen, Iraq, Syria and Lebanon. Rather than give in to those demands, however, Iran has done the opposite. Rouhani said Wednesday his nation would begin stockpiling extra low-enriched uranium and so-called heavy water, which is needed for commercial nuclear reactors. Iran will ramp up enrichment to weapons grade levels at the end of 60 days unless U.S.-led pressure on Irans oil and banking sectors was relieved. The U.S. warships and bombers sped up their deployment to the Middle East after intelligence agencies spotted Iranian backed groups move ballistic missiles, which some officials said could pose a threat to U.S. troops and allies. The decision to expedite the ships to the region was made by National Security Advisor John Bolton, a longtime Iran hawk. Officials at the State and Defense Departments and in U.S. intelligence agencies are increasingly worried that Bolton is trying to maneuver both Iran and Trump into a corner where they have no alternative but war. Story continues Bolton has made it very clear for years that he thinks the only way to eliminate the threat he thinks Iran poses to us and our friends in the region is by getting rid of the regime, by hook or by crook, said one U.S. official who deals with Iran and criticized Bolton only on the condition of anonymity. These officials fears have been heightened by the departure of Defense Secretary James Mattis, widely regarded as one of the few if not the only brake on Bolton, and Trumps failure so far to appoint a successor after 125 days and counting. The assessments within the intelligence community dont square with Boltons and he often ignores them, officials at two agencies say, again agreeing to speak only anonymously. While Bolton keeps saying Iran is intent on developing nuclear weapons that could hit Israel, Saudi Arabia and other friendly states, the U.S. intelligence assessment shared by other nations and the International Atomic Energy Agency is that Iran continues to abide by the 2015 nuclear deal, known formally as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action. Bolton, these officials said, hyped both what both called a routine transport of some Iranian missiles and the scheduled deployment of he deployment of the aircraft carrier U.S.S. Abraham Lincoln and adjoining ships to the Middle East as part of the Administrations maximum pressure campaign against Iran. The Iranians know U.S. intelligence watches and eavesdrops on their military movements and communications, but they made no attempt to conceal the missiles movement, one of the officials said. That, he said, does not appear to be preparation for an attack, but a reminder that Iran has the weapons. There is no dispute within the Administration that Iran is a bad actor intent on expanding its influence in the Middle East, either directly as its military forces and Iranian-backed political groups have done in Iraq, or by funding and equipping proxies such as Hezbollah in Lebanon and Hamas in Palestine. The dispute is how to respond. Trump hasnt been shy in vocalizing his aversion to overseas military entanglements, but Bolton has repeatedly advocated for the use of force in Iran. The inescapable conclusion is that Iran will not negotiate away its nuclear program. Nor will sanctions block its building a broad and deep weapons infrastructure, he argued in the New York Times in 2015. The inconvenient truth is that only military action like Israels 1981 attack on Saddam Husseins Osirak reactor in Iraq or its 2007 destruction of a Syrian reactor, designed and built by North Korea, can accomplish what is required. .@POTUS is applying maximum pressure on Iran. New sanctions on Iranian metal deny the regime critical revenue from leading exports. The maximum pressure campaign against the Iranian regime has now gone well beyond the re-imposition of oil sanctions. https://t.co/7daleKSQFh John Bolton (@AmbJohnBolton) May 9, 2019 Gen. Joseph Dunford, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, told a Senate subcommittee Wednesday that the aircraft carrier and bomber task force deployment intended to show Iran that there would be no ambiguity about our preparedness to respond to any threat against our people or our partners in the region. Gen. Kenneth McKenzie, commander of all U.S. forces in the Middle East, promised to meet hit Iran with unrelenting force should Iranian forces or proxies attack. Make no mistake, were not seeking a fight with the Iranian regime, but we do have a military force thats designed to be agile, adaptive, and prepared to respond to a variety of contingencies in the Middle East and around the world, he said during a speech in Washington. The deployment have some Congressional members spooked. Rep. Adam Smith, chairman of the House Armed Services Committee, called the actions deeply troubling, while demanding to be briefed immediately on the militarys plans. Meanwhile, the Trump Administration continues to ratchet the economic pressure. The U.S. government slapped a new round of sanctions targeting Tehrans steel, iron, aluminum and copper sectors, while also putting other nations on notice that allowing Iranian steel and other metals into your ports will no longer be tolerated. Despite resistance from virtually every major world power for abandoning the deal, the U.S. has turned the global financial system into a weapon against Tehran. The policy has triggered an exodus of corporations and financial institutions that would rather abandon their investments in Iran than risk U.S. Treasury Department sanctions. Irans economy sustaining oil exports has plunged to historic lows. The State Department says nearly 1,000 Iranian individuals, businesses and banks have been sanctioned. The Administration last month designated the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), an arm of the nations military, as a terrorist organization, which restricts members banking transactions and ability to travel. It marked the first time the U.S. designated an arm of a nations government as a terrorist group. Tehran, which for its part has complied with the 2015 nuclear agreement despite the U.S. pullout, is seeking to split other countries from the U.S. by salvaging a deal with its remaining signatories: Russia, China, Germany, Britain and France. It has thus far elected for minimum retaliatory measures. But as the screws continue to tighten on the economy, Iran has announced its intent to return to the path toward producing nuclear bomb. After all, the JCPOA brought Irans nuclear program under tight international controls, but freed it from heavy sanctions. Now that the sanctions are back on, Tehran doesnt see the logic in abiding by the rules. JCPOA will be either win-win or lose-lose. We wont let US turn it into a win-lose situation, Rouhani said in his national address. A collision course is now set with Irans declared 60-day ultimatum. Pressure for a solution will mount with each passing day. When Donald Trump blasts Chinas unfair business tactics, he tends to highlight the manufacturing jobs that he pledged to bring back in his 2016 campaign. But one of the toughest sticking points in his trade negotiations this week is from a side of the economy he rarely discusses: intellectual property. American businesses have long been angered by the ways their trade secrets on everything from toys to how to build solar panels and even nuclear technology pass from U.S. companies operating in China to the countrys government and often from there to their Chinese-owned competitors. U.S. negotiators thought China was willing to rewrite key national security and trade laws to reduce the theft of intellectual property, open its markets to U.S. financial services and cut down on dumping low-cost goods overseas. But over the weekend Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin and U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer told Trump they thought China was backing away from those promises, officials familiar with the negotiations tell TIME. There is a growing sense among senior White House officials that U.S. trade negotiations with China are reaching a make-or-break moment for a deal, a senior Administration official said. At the same time, there is increasing confidence in the White House that tariffs are a workable alternative to and a preferred alternative to a hollow deal, the official said. If Trump imposes new 25% tariffs by weeks end, it will be among the riskiest moves hes made in his campaign to reshape Americas trade relations with the world, with stakes that involve one of our largest trading partners and possible retaliation aimed squarely at the agricultural and manufacturing industries Trump has promised to protect. It will also be somewhat ironic, with the president going to bat on a 21st century problem with a distinctly 19th century solution, and putting at risk some of his strongest supporters to help Silicon Valley, which has had a troubled relationship with him. Story continues Even some of Trumps strongest critics on tariffs said that Trump was right to fight China over its handling of IP. Intellectual property abuse is the strongest indictment the U.S. has against China, said Daniel Griswold, a trade expert at the Mercatus Center at George Mason University. But he argued that tariffs were an overly broad response that would hurt American companies, and that the Trump Administration was reaching for an Uzi when we need a scalpel, he said. The trouble began earlier this week. Lighthizer and others thought the Chinese negotiators had agreed to some language that at least implicitly acknowledged that China had used trade with the U.S. unfairly, among other things, to force U.S. firms to hand over intellectual property. But by late Saturday, Mnuchin and Lighthizer were under the impression China was rowing back on a number of issues, a senior Administration official said. Chinas backpedaling was interpreted as a sign of the limitations of Chinas ability to do much of anything it is promising to do, the official said. In response, Trump tweeted on Sunday that he intended to jack up tariffs on $200 billion worth of Chinese imports from 10% to 25% at 12:01 a.m. on Friday. Trumps threat was not gamesmanship on the part of the president, the official said, but seemed more like real frustration. A Chinese trade delegation led by Vice Premier Liu He is still expected to arrive in Washington on Thursday for two days of talks, the official said. Liu is a top economic policymaker for Chinas Communist Party leadership and a close adviser to Chinas President Xi Jinping. Over the weekend, Chinese negotiators told their American counterparts that while they had agreed to the changes on protecting intellectual property and steps to reduce the trade surplus with the U.S., they had not agreed and will not agree to language that concedes any abuses. That might help explain the blast on the Peoples Daily WeChat account telling the U.S. not even to think about demanding concessions now. Nonetheless, the Trump Administration remains optimistic that a deal can be struck by the deadline just after midnight Thursday night, in part because it should be possible to reconcile the differences in private so that neither side loses face. The fact that Liu is still coming despite Trumps tariff threat suggests that the Chinese still want a deal and a spooked response from the U.S. market could push the Trump Administration to be more accommodating too, in part because Trump is always bragging about the soaring market as an indicator of his success as president. In the days after Trump announced his intention to increase tariffs on Chinese goods, U.S. officials noted that Beijing blocked widespread news coverage of Trumps threat inside China, even as Chinas stock market dropped 12% on the news being reported by mainstream outlets around the world. Trump Administration officials interpreted the Chinese news blackout as a sign of weakness and fear of more tariffs by Chinas leadership. The Administration earlier explored the possibility of sanctioning individual Chinese companies caught appropriating or stealing intellectual property, but decided that because Chinese law requires them and any Chinese citizens working for foreign companies to hand things to the government, tariffs are a better enforcement mechanism. And given Chinas compliance record, a pretty stiff enforcement mechanism is necessary, said an official familiar with the talks, speaking on the condition of anonymity. The danger here appears to be that both sides may be overestimating their leverage and overplaying their hands, said a U.S. expert whos been following the talks closely. At issue are multiple provisions in Chinese law that the U.S. wants China to revise, or at least reinterpret to be clear they dont apply to foreign companies operating inside China. These include Article 7 of Chinas National Intelligence Law which requires an organization or citizen to support, assist and cooperate with state intelligence work and Article 28 of Chinas Cybersecurity law states that network operators provide technical support and assistance to public security organs. Trump has used his tough talk on trade with China to hammer current Democratic presidential contender Joe Biden. Last week, Biden minimized Chinas economic threat to the U.S. as a way to criticize Trumps trade war. China is going to eat our lunch? Come on, man, Biden said at a campaign rally in Iowa City, Iowa on May 1. I mean, you know, theyre not bad folks, folks. But guess what? Theyre not competition for us, Biden said. The following day, Trump said in an interview with Fox News that Biden was being very naive about China. On Wednesday, Trump went farther, saying China was backpedaling on trade because they hope Biden or a Democrat will win the 2020 election and back off Trumps demands. The reason for the China pullback & attempted renegotiation of the Trade Deal is the sincere HOPE that they will be able to negotiate with Joe Biden or one of the very weak Democrats, and thereby continue to ripoff the United States (($500 Billion a year)) for years to come.... Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) May 8, 2019 WASHINGTON President Donald Trump on Thursday blasted a decision by the Republican-led Senate Intelligence Committee to subpoena Donald Trump Jr., saying he was "very surprised" by the move. Days after Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell declared "case closed" in the ongoing probes into the 2016 election, the GOP-led committee subpoenaed the president's son for reasons that were not immediately clear. "I was very surprised," Trump said during impromptu press conference at the White House following an event on "surprise" medical bills that saddle patients with thousands of dollars in debt. "My sons a very good person. My son was totally exonerated." Trump didnt say directly whether his son should fight the subpoena. The president touched on several other controversial topics: Trump said former Secretary of State John Kerry should be "prosecuted" for meeting with Iranian officials last year. A Kerry spokesman responded by arguing that "everything President Trump said today is simply wrong, end of story." The president called on Congress to address "surprise" billing at hospitals that can unexpectedly leave patients thousands of dollars in debt after their care, focusing on a bipartisan slice of a highly divisive issue. Trump said his administration would announce new steps to deal with the issue in coming weeks. As part of his speech, Trump inspected the bill of a patient who was charged nearly $18,000 for a urine test. Hours before a high-stakes meeting with representatives from China, Trump said he received a "beautiful letter" from Chinese President Xi Jinping and would follow up with a phone call soon. The news of the subpoena for Trump Jr. came as tensions are escalating between Democrats and the Trump administration. On Wednesday, Democrats on the House Judiciary Committee voted to hold Attorney General William Barr in contempt of Congress over his refusal to hand over an unredacted copy of Special Counsel Robert Mueller's report on Russian interference in the 2016 election. Story continues Days before the committee issued the subpoena, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell urged Congress to move on from the Mueller probe, declaring "case closed." But in the same speech, McConnell touched on the Intelligence Committee's ongoing work and said it would help America be ready for future threats. Intelligence Committee Chairman Richard Burr, R-N.C., declined to answer questions at the Capitol Thursday. But other Republicans on the committee were quick to make a distinction between their investigation and Muellers, and to downplay the subpoena. Muellers was a criminal justice investigation. Ours is an intelligence investigation about the Russia threat and about the way our agencies performed, said Sen. Marco Rubio, R-Fla. Maine Republican Sen. Susan Collins, also on the Intelligence Committee, said she thought the committee was doing a good job probing Russian interference in the 2016 election. Sen. Roy Blunt, a Republican from Missouri, seemed to suggest that the committee merely wants to review its information with Trump Jr. and said he hopes the presidents eldest son would reconsider appearing before the committee. Blunt said the key takeaway was that Burr had found no evidence of collusion, and suggested the chairman was just trying to be sure that everybodys asked all the questions needed before proceeding. I dont think theres any possibility that any of those questions would change the conclusion, Blunt added. Sen. Dianne Feinstein, a Democrat on the Senate Intelligence Committee and former chairwoman, said Burr issuing the subpoena was "the right thing to do." The California Democrat said she didnt want to create a lightning rod by specifically saying what the committee would do if Trump Jr. avoided the subpoena. But she said the committee would "exercise" its options. More: Republican-led Senate Intelligence Committee subpoenas Donald Trump Jr. Trump continued to blast the special counsel's probe on Thursday, a day after he asserted executive privilege for the first time in his presidency to block House Democrats from receiving the full Mueller report along with supporting evidence. The president declined to answer directly whether he would allow Mueller to testify before Congress, saying he would "leave that up to our very great attorney general. Trump dismissed Democratic efforts to subpoena additional information, echoing the message pushed by the White House in recent days that the moves "look like a redo" of Mueller's probe. Democrats say they are fulfilling their oversight responsibilities. House Judiciary Committee chairman Jerrold Nadler, D-N.Y., has blasted the White House for refusing to comply with subpoenas, describing the situation as a "constitutional crisis." House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., told reporters Thursday she agreed with Nadler. Donald Trump Jr., then an adviser to the Trump campaign, met a Russian lawyer who had promised damaging information about Trump's Democratic rival, Hillary Clinton. Trump Jr. enthusiastically accepted the 2016 meeting after he was told the session was the idea of the "crown prosecutor of Russia," the report says. The president's allies in Congress quickly fanned out to defend Trump Jr. I believe its time to move on, House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., told reporters Thursday. I think they have it wrong. McCarthy avoided a question about what Trump Jr. should do, but he said the committee should re-look at their subpoena. Trump ally and Freedom Caucus Chairman Mark Meadows, R-N.C., called the subpoena of the president's son "beyond inappropriate." "He answered questions and was cleared in the Mueller report after a 2 year, unlimited investigation," he said on Twitter. But not everyone was so quick to criticize. The subpoena came up when Senate Republicans met for lunch. After most rank-and-file lawmakers walked out they did their best to avoid the topic, saying they trusted Burrs decision. I have great confidence in our chairman and hell figure out what we have to do, Sen. Tim Scott of South Carolina told USA TODAY. The Senate Intelligence Committee is so secret that I shouldnt even talk about it. And there isnt much I know about it anyway, Iowa Sen. Chuck Grassley said. Serving a subpoena to Don Trump Jr.a private citizen who voluntarily testified before 3 Congressional committees for 25+ hoursis beyond inappropriate. He answered questions and was cleared in the Mueller report after a 2 year, unlimited investigation. It's over. Let it go. Mark Meadows (@RepMarkMeadows) May 9, 2019 Contributing: Kristine Phillips and Christal Hayes of USA TODAY This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Trump 'very surprised' at Donald Trump Jr. subpoena, blasts John Kerry at press conference Washington (AFP) - The Russia probe plunged Washington into turmoil Wednesday as Donald Trump's son reportedly was ordered to testify before a Senate panel and the White House refused to release material on investigations into the president. A day after the top Republican in Congress called the Russia probe "case closed," Trump's conflict with his Democratic opponents escalated to new heights as a House panel voted to hold the nation's Attorney General Bill Barr in contempt for refusing to turn over key documents. Following a day of drama that included Trump asserting executive privilege for the first time in his presidency, the Republican-led Senate Intelligence Committee took the surprise step of issuing a subpoena to Donald Trump Jr to testify as part of its investigation into Russian election interference, US media reported. It was the first known legal summons issued to a member of the president's family to force testimony in the ongoing investigation, and comes after special counsel Robert Mueller declined to accuse Trump's 2016 campaign of criminal conspiracy to collude with the Russians. Trump Jr, 41, has testified voluntarily in private once to the committee, and was peppered with questions about a June 9, 2016 meeting at Trump Tower in New York that he and other campaign officials had with a Russian lawyer who had offered them dirt on Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton. Committee aides would not confirm the subpoena or what they want to discuss with the president's eldest son, who currently helps run the Trump Organization. Citing a person close to Trump Jr, The Wall Street Journal reported he had offered to answer questions in writing from the committee, and planned to fight the subpoena, which demands he testify in person. - 'Constitutional crisis' - The White House has been seeking to shield a large swathe of material -- including redacted portions of Mueller's report -- subpoenaed by lawmakers seeking to exert their oversight responsibility. Story continues The rare move to invoke executive privilege came as the House Judiciary Committee took its most substantive step yet against a member of the Trump administration by approving a contempt motion against Barr. "This was a very grave and momentous step we were forced to take today," committee chairman Jerry Nadler said after the party-line vote. Nadler said the contempt citation will proceed "rapidly" for a full House vote but did not offer a timeline. He accused Trump and the White House of stonewalling by preventing America's congressional representatives from conducting oversight of the executive branch. "It's an attack on the essence of our democracy," Nadler said. "We are now in a constitutional crisis." The Department of Justice swiftly shot back, branding the contempt vote "inappropriate political theatrics." Hours earlier, Trump made clear he would assert his executive privilege to keep Mueller's full report under wraps. "Neither the White House nor Attorney General Barr will comply with Chairman Nadler's unlawful and reckless demands," White House press secretary Sarah Sanders said. Assistant Attorney General Stephen Boyd stressed that Trump had moved to keep "the entirety of the subpoenaed materials" from the eyes of Congress. Nadler warned that such action "represents a clear escalation in the Trump administration's blanket defiance of Congress's constitutionally mandated duties." Democrats have struggled with their battle plan in the wake of the Mueller report. Some have called for impeachment proceedings against Trump, while others stress the need to refocus on issues affecting everyday Americans ahead of the 2020 election. Trump claimed the document exonerated him of wrongdoing. On the question of obstruction of justice, the report did not conclude Trump committed a crime, but Mueller wrote that "it also does not exonerate him." House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Trump's nemesis in Congress, has refrained from calling for his impeachment. But on Wednesday she voiced support for the contempt move, and delivered a stinging message about the White House refusal to release the unredacted report. "Is this what it looks like when you have nothing to hide?" Pelosi tweeted. - 'A disgrace' - For several hours in the tense judiciary hearing, lawmakers traded barbs about Barr's brazen protection of the president and the calculated effort by Democrats to punish him and gain access to key material. Addressing a rally of supporters in Florida on Wednesday night, Trump defended his attorney general as "great" and said that after Mueller's two-year probe found "nothing," the Democrats were not finished. "You know it was going to be, like, 'we want the Mueller report.' Now they say, 'Mueller report, no, we want to start all over again.' It is a disgrace." Barr defied a subpoena to turn over a complete copy of Mueller's report and the underlying evidence, and last week refused to testify before the House Judiciary Committee. The panel approved the 27-page contempt citation in which Nadler wrote that even the redacted report "offers disturbing evidence and analysis that President Trump engaged in obstruction of justice at the highest levels." WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. President Donald Trump called on Congress on Thursday to pass legislation to protect patients from surprise medical bills from out-of-network doctors that can unnecessarily cost patients tens of thousands of dollars. In remarks at the White House, Trump unveiled principles the administration will send to congressional lawmakers to incorporate into a legislative package that would address surprise bills. "We're going to hold insurance companies and hospitals totally accountable," Trump said. Surprise bills occur when patients visit a hospital they believe is in their health insurance network but then are seen by a doctor or specialist who is out of network. The White House wants the legislation to particularly focus on patients who receive emergency room care and are unable to consent to out-of-network care. The principles are also aimed at patients who visit a facility for elective surgery but are unknowingly treated and billed for treatment from a doctor or specialist who is not in their insurance network, Joe Grogan, head of White House domestic policy, told reporters. America's Health Insurance Plans, a trade group that represents U.S. health insurers, said on Thursday it supports prohibiting doctors from sending patients surprise bills in cases of emergency and requiring facilities to inform patients of their doctors' insurance network status. Congress has held hearings on the issue and a bipartisan group of senators is drafting a bill to protect patients from surprise bills. Democratic Senator Maggie Hassan, along with several Republican senators and representatives, attended the event. The White House said it does not want federal expenditures to increase as a result of legislation. That could happen if Medicare, the government health insurance program for Americans aged 65 and older, and Medicaid, the government health insurance program for the poor and disabled, have to pay more of patients' bills. Democratic Representative Frank Pallone, chairman of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, and Republican Representative Greg Walden, the committee's ranking member, said in a statement they would work on bipartisan surprise billing legislation. "No family should be left in financial ruin through no fault of their own, which is why we have been working together on a bipartisan solution to protect patients that we hope to announce soon," Pallone and Walden said. (Reporting By Yasmeen Abutaleb; Editing by Bill Berkrot) President Donald Trump's Middle East envoy on Thursday berated the UN Security Council for "rehashing tired talking points" criticizing Israel and said an upcoming US peace plan would provide a fresh approach. Jason Greenblatt told a council meeting that the imminent proposals for an Israeli-Palestinian peace "will be realistic and implementable," describing it as "the right package of compromises for both sides." "It is time for a new approach," said Greenblatt, who is working with Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner on proposals for an Israeli-Palestinian settlement that are to be unveiled in June. Addressing the council, Palestinian Foreign Minister Riyad al-Maliki again voiced opposition to the US plan, which is expected to include economic development as a key component. "This is not a peace plan but rather conditions for surrender and there is no amount of money that can make it acceptable," said Maliki. The Palestinians cut off contacts with the Trump administration after it recognized Jerusalem as the capital of Israel in December 2017 and have accused the United States of taking a strongly pro-Israel stance. "We cannot afford not to engage with any peace efforts," said Maliki, but he added that the US efforts could not be characterized "nor can qualify, as peace efforts, unfortunately." European powers along with Russia and China fear the US plan will ditch the two-state solution to the conflict that provides for a Palestinian state to be established as part of a final settlement. Greenblatt urged council members to "support the parties to get together and to get behind this opportunity." - Opposing settlements a 'farce' - The council met for an informal meeting organized by Indonesia, a strong Palestinian supporter, about the expansion of Israeli settlements on occupied Palestinian land, which the United Nations considers illegal. Story continues Greenblatt dismissed the view that the expansion of Jewish settlements was an impediment to Israeli-Palestinian peace and illegal under international law. "Let's stop pretending that settlements are what is keeping the sides from a negotiated peaceful solution," said Greenblatt. "This farce and obsessive focus on one aspect of this complicated conflict helps no one." He criticized the council for taking aim at Israel over the expansion of settlements but failing to condemn the Hamas movement and Islamic Jihad for firing rockets into Israel. "Instead of seeking accountability for Hamas and Islamic Jihad... we are rehashing tired talking points, some 20 years old," he argued. The envoy accused the United Nations of bias against Israel, choosing "the comfort of 700 paper resolutions" condemning Israel instead of confronting the "700 rockets" fired by Palestinian militants. Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi described settlement construction as "unacceptable" and urged the council to take a firmer stance against Israel. "Inaction is not an option," she said. WASHINGTON More than 100 days since Patrick Shanahan assumed the role of acting secretary of defense, the White House announced today that President Trump will nominate the former Boeing executive to permanently fill the position. Based upon his outstanding Service to the country and his demonstrated ability to lead, President Trump intends to nominate Patrick M. Shanahan to the Secretary of Defense, White House spokeswoman Sarah Sanders said in a tweet. Acting Secretary Shanahan has proven over the last several months that he is beyond qualified to lead the Department of Defense, and he will continue to do an excellent job. The nomination, which appears set to move easily through Congress now that it has the support of a key senator, will end the longest gap in history for a confirmed Pentagon chief. Patrick Shanahan, the recently appointed secretary of defense. (Photo: Yuri Gripas/Reuters) Sen. James Inhofe, R-Okla., chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, who had earlier expressed reservations about Shanahan, appears to have dropped his opposition in the effort to have a permanent secretary. Inhofe recently said he expected Trump to nominate Shanahan, and he would be in favor of such a move. If the White House nominates Patrick Shanahan, I would welcome his nomination, Inhofe told Yahoo News last week in an emailed statement.For more than 100 days, weve had an acting Secretary of Defense. That is too long. America needs a Senate-confirmed Secretary of Defense and the acting title only makes the job more difficult when dealing with our allies, adversaries and Washington bureaucracy. Acting Secretary of Defense Patrick Shanahan with President Trump in the Oval Office, Feb. 19, 2019. (Photo: Evan Vucci/AP) Inhofe had as recently as February expressed skepticism that Trump would nominate Shanahan, and appeared lukewarm at best over the prospect of Shanahan taking the job. The senator told reporters that the acting secretary lacks the humility of James Mattis, who resigned from the top Pentagon post in December to protest Trumps announced decision to withdraw troops from Syria. Shanahan served as Mattiss deputy. Story continues Senator Inhofe has said he would support Shanahans nomination and that he thinks he will be confirmed if nominated, a Senate Armed Services Committee spokesperson told Yahoo News before the White House announcement. His big priority here is getting someone in the role as a permanent secretary. The support of the Armed Services Committee chairman is usually essential in shepherding a nomination for defense secretary through a committee vote and on to the full Senate. There, a Republican majority gives Trumps pick a likely shot at confirmation. Even though some Republican senators reportedly still harbor doubts about Shanahans suitability as defense secretary, Inhofes support is likely to make the difference, according to a Senate staffer. If Senator Inhofe gets on board, then hes probably in pretty good shape, the staffer said. Senator Inhofe will really hold the key to whether he gets confirmed or not. Speculation that Trump would nominate Shanahan intensified after the Defense Department inspector general cleared the acting secretary of wrongdoing related to allegations that he promoted the interests of his former employer of 30 years, Boeing, after moving to the Pentagon. I was expecting the nomination almost immediately upon the release of the IG report, said Wesley Hallman, senior vice president at the National Defense Industrial Association. Photo: Al Drago/Bloomberg via Getty Images Although that didnt happen, Hallman said he still expected Trump to nominate Shanahan just because of the buzz coming out of the Senate. With the White House announcement, Shanahans prospects for confirmation look good, said Hallman, who previously worked as an Air Force liaison to Congress. I havent seen any Republican come out hard against Shanahan, Hallman said. With Inhofe indicating that he is supportive of both the nomination and a confirmation, I think that hes already done that spadework to believe thatll go through on Republican votes, if required. Shanahans prospects might have been worse had Inhofes predecessor as committee chairman, the late Sen. John McCain, still held the job. Under McCains chairmanship, Shanahan endured a rough confirmation process for the deputy secretary job in 2017, a Senate staffer said. McCain was particularly troubled by Shanahans initial equivocation on whether he was in favor of the United States giving military support to help Ukraine fight Russia-backed separatists. Hes the only nomination Ive ever seen have to turn in three versions of his advance policy questions before he finally cleared muster, the staffer said. McCain was also unenthusiastic about the prospect of a career defense industry executive moving to a senior job in the Pentagon. I dont know that Senator Inhofe will care to the extent that Senator McCain did about industry ties and things like that, the Senate staffer said. If Senator McCain were up there, itd be a different story, Hallman said. Sanderss announcement laid to rest rumors that Trump would keep Shanahan in an acting capacity for the foreseeable future. The president has said in the past that having officials in acting roles gives him more flexibility. If Trump had taken that route with Shanahan, the result would be a leader in the Pentagon who is still beholden to the whims of the White House instead of a strong advocate on behalf of his or her department, Hallman said. He cited as an example the Trump administrations recent designation of Irans Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps as a terrorist organization. The professional uniform-wearers and the professional civilians within the Department of Defense were broadly against that declaration, but Shanahan didnt carry that water quite so strongly as might have been expected, Hallman said, adding that there was speculation that Shanahan soft-pedaled the issue because he was still interviewing for the job. _____ Read more from Yahoo News: Pakistan summoned Indian Deputy High Commissioner Pakistan summoned Indian Deputy High Commissioner Gaurav Ahluwalia on Wednesday and condemned the unprovoked ceasefire violations by the Indian occupation forces along the Line of Control (LoC) last week. Ministry of Foreign Affairs South Asia & SAARC Director General Dr Mohammad Faisal summoned the Indian envoy after three civilians were martyred and two injured on May 2 and 5 following ceasefire violations along the LoC. On May 2, 15-year-old Tahir Hafeez was martyred while his nine-year-old sister Tahira sustained serious injuries in the Rakhchikri Sector along the LoC. Three days later, on May 5, two innocent civilians a woman identified as Nasreen Bibi and 12-year-old Muhammad Zahid, s/o Shabbir Ahmed were martyred, while another woman identified as Sonia Bibi sustained injuries. In a press statement, the Foreign Office said, The Indian forces along the Line of Control and the Working Boundary are continuously targeting civilian populated areas with heavy weapons. This unprecedented escalation in ceasefire violations by India is continuing from the year 2017 when the Indian forces committed 1,970 ceasefire violations. The Foreign Office said Indias deliberate targeting of civilian populated areas was deplorable and contrary to human dignity, international human rights and humanitarian laws. The ceasefire violations by India are a threat to regional peace and security and may lead to a strategic miscalculation, it warned. Dr Faisal urged the Indian side to respect the 2003 ceasefire arrangement, investigate these and other incidents of violation, instruct Indian forces to respect the ceasefire in letter and spirit, and maintain peace on the LoC and the Working Boundary. Donald Trump ordered new sanctions against Iran on Wednesday hours after Tehran said it was relaxing some restrictions on its nuclear programme. The sanctions requested by the US president target Irans steel, aluminium, copper and iron sectors worth around 10 per cent of the countrys economy, according to the White House. Iran had announced hours earlier that it was stepping up some of its nuclear capabilities - steps that stopped short of violating its historic deal with world powers for now, but threatening more action if countries do not shield it from US sanctions. The Trump administration said it would continue its maximum pressure campaign on the Iranian government until it stops destabilising activities in the region, gives up any nuclear weapons efforts and ends any development of ballistic missiles. Tehran can expect further actions unless it fundamentally alters its conduct, said Mr Trump, who also called on the Iranians to return in good faith to the negotiating table. The US, Germany, Britain, France, Russia, China and the European Union signed a deal with Iran in 2015 that lifted international sanctions in exchange for Tehran limiting its nuclear programme. One year ago, Mr Trump pulled out of the agreement, calling it the worst deal in history. He said the accord should also have restrained Irans ballistic missile programme and curbed what his administration considers Tehrans malign activities in the region. The other nations have remained in the nuclear deal technically known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) and have tried to provide Iran with enough economic incentives to keep the agreement alive. Iran threatened earlier on Wednesday to enrich its uranium stockpile closer to weapons-grade levels in 60 days if world powers fail to negotiate new terms for its 2015 nuclear deal. The country has stopped its sale of excess uranium and heavy water as a first step something required under the deal. Story continues In 60 days, if no new deal is in place, Iran said it would increase its enrichment of uranium beyond 3.67 per cent, which is permitted by the accord. President Hassan Rouhani did not say how far Iran would be willing to enrich, although the head of its nuclear programme again reiterated Iran could reach 20 per cent enrichment within four days. Once a country enriches uranium to around 20 per cent, scientists say the time needed to reach the 90 per cent threshold for weapons-grade uranium is halved. The Iranian people and the world should know that today is not the end of the JCPOA, Mr Rouhani said in a televised address. These are actions in line with the JCPOA. Starting today, Iran does not keep its enriched uranium and produced heavy water limited. The EU/E3+2 will face Iran's further actions if they can not fulfill their obligations within the next 60 days and secure Iran's interests. Win-Win conditions will be accepted. Hassan Rouhani (@HassanRouhani) May 8, 2019 France and Germany both said they wanted to keep the nuclear deal alive, and warned Iran not to violate it. It is important to avoid any action that would impede the implementation of their obligations by the parties now engaged in the accord or that would fuel an escalation, said French deputy foreign ministry spokesman Olivier Gauvin. China said the deal should continue to be implemented and called on all sides to exercise restraint and pursue dialogue. Speaking on a visit to the London, secretary of state Mike Pompeo urged the UK to stand with the US when it came to Iran, claiming were on the side of creating a nation for the Iranian people. The weeks leading up to the anniversary of Mr Trumps withdrawal from the agreement have seen a sharp tightening of US sanctions and an increase in tensions on other fronts. Earlier this week Washington announced the deployment of an aircraft carrier and B-52 bombers to the Middle East to counter what it says are clear indications of Iranian threats to US forces in the region. Additional reporting by agencies Donald Trumps eldest son, Don Jr, has been subpoenaed to testify before the Republican-led Senate Intelligence Committee over his contacts with Russia, sparking the latest drama in Washington surrounding that investigation. The subpoena comes as the White House remains at odds with Congress after the Democrat-controlled House Judiciary Committee voted on Wednesday to hold attorney general William Barr in contempt of Congress over his failure to release the full, unredacted Mueller report into alleged ties between the Trump administration and the Kremlin. Democrats have demanded the unredacted version of that report, but also the underlying evidence so they can weigh whether charges are warrant further legal action. That action may one day mean impeachment for Mr Trump as some Democrats like presidential candidate Elizabeth Warren have demanded but House speaker Nancy Pelosi said on Thursday that she does not believe the time has come for that effort. Ms Pelosi said that she plans on waiting for House committees to finish their investigations, and then she would be open to considering further actions. The president himself meanwhile addressed a rowdy rally in Panama City Beach, Florida, on Wednesday evening, where he pledged to deliver $448m (344m) in disaster relief funding seven months after the Panhandle was devastated by Hurricane Michael. While delivering that good news, the president also laughed and joked when a member of the crowd yelled about shooting Central American migrants, who he said constituted an invasion. Please allow a moment for our liveblog to load President Donald Trump plans to nominate Patrick Shanahan, his acting Pentagon chief and a former Boeing Co. executive, as defense secretary to succeed Jim Mattis, who quit in December. Based upon his outstanding service to the Country and his demonstrated ability to lead, President Trump intends to nominate Patrick M. Shanahan to be the Secretary of Defense, White House spokeswoman Sarah Sanders said in a statement on Twitter. The move brings greater stability to Trumps national security team. Sanders cited Shanahans leadership in recent months hes the longest serving acting Pentagon chief in U.S. history as evidence that hes beyond qualified to lead the Department of Defense, and he will continue to do an excellent job. Shanahan, 56, has been acting defense secretary since Mattis stepped down over Trumps abrupt announcement that he was withdrawing all 2,000 U.S. troops from Syria. Hes since proven his loyalty, backing Trumps efforts to tap Pentagon funding for a border wall over bipartisan congressional opposition and working to scale back, though not eliminate, American forces in Syria. When Shanahan assumed command of American armed forces as acting secretary, he said in a statement that he looked forward to working with President Trump to carry out his vision alongside strong leaders. And when Trump disparaged Mattis at a cabinet meeting in early January scoffing whats he done for me? Shanahan was at the presidents side. In an interview in February, Shanahan brushed aside criticism that he was auditioning for the role of defense secretary through his vocal enthusiasm for the presidents initiatives, saying the approach could be summed up by the acronym GSD get stuff done. Getting Stuff Done Lets not worry about whether hes a yes man or a no man but whether hes a can-do man, Shanahan said of himself. I just spend all my time getting stuff done. Story continues In December, Trump praised Shanahan in a tweet, saying he had a long list of accomplishments while serving as Deputy, & previously Boeing. Shanahan, an engineer by training, rose to senior vice president at Chicago-based Boeing. He had 30 years of experience at the company across its key military, space and commercial aviation businesses but made his mark in 2007, when he was assigned to help fix cascading development issues that had left the 787 Dreamliner years behind schedule. He has recused himself from decisions on Boeing contracts, and on April 25 was cleared by the Pentagons inspector general of allegations by an advocacy group that he had showed favoritism toward his former employer. Rejected Allegations We determined that Mr. Shanahan fully complied with his ethics agreements and his ethical obligations regarding Boeing and its competitors, the inspector general wrote in a 36-page report released on April 25. The report rejected allegations that he offered praise of Boeing and put-downs of rival Lockheed Martin Corp. as well as concern about the appearances raised by Air Force Secretary Heather Wilson. Senators are likely to press Shanahan further on the difficulty of sidestepping such appearances of conflict because Lockheed, the No. 1 U.S. defense contractor, and Boeing, which is No. 2, loom so large in Defense Department budgeting and decision-making. While acknowledging that the inspector generals report cleared him of wrongdoing, Senator Jack Reed, the panels top Democrat, said in a statement that the report also shows the wide swath of national security matters that Acting Secretary Shanahan is barred from, which strikes me as something the Senate needs to consider. My Generals Unlike Mattis whom Trump described as one of my generals Shanahan never served in the military. But defense secretaries generally have come to the job from civilian life. Most recently, Ashton Carter, who was defense secretary under President Barack Obama, was never in the military, although he had a lengthy resume in civilian defense posts and related academic positions. Mattis was widely seen as a moderating force against Trumps hostility toward traditional American alliances and overseas military commitments. The announcement of his departure stunned congressional leaders of both parties, many of whom had openly criticized Trumps reversal of longstanding policy on Syria. While Trumps initial Syria announcement in December drew bipartisan criticism and protests from allies, Shanahan said in the interview that decision-making among the presidents top aides has been exceptionally smooth and effortless. He cited his working relationship with cabinet counterparts including Secretary of State Michael Pompeo and National Security Adviser John Bolton. WASHINGTON, May 9 (Reuters) - U.S. President Donald Trump, facing the possibility of military confrontations with both Iran and Venezuela, said on Thursday that he sometimes serves as a counterbalance to his hard-charging national security adviser, John Bolton. Bolton has been a key player in current U.S. standoffs with Iran and Venezuela, both instances in which the United States has not ruled out the use of force to protect American interests. A statement announcing a U.S. naval force to the Gulf region was issued under Bolton's name. The Washington Post reported on Thursday that Trump has privately complained that Bolton is pushing an interventionist stance at odds with his view that the United States should stay out of foreign quagmires. Some Trump advisers have told Reuters in the past that they were concerned Bolton was sometimes pushing his own agenda rather than what the president would prefer. The president was asked about Bolton at an impromptu news conference in the White House Roosevelt Room on Thursday. "Johns very good. He has strong views on things which is OK. Im the one who tempers him, which is OK. I have John Bolton and I have people who are a little more dovish than him," said Trump. Bolton is Trump's third national security adviser, after Michael Flynn and H.R. McMaster, and has been in the position for a little more than a year. The United States has said all options are on the table for dealing with both Venezuela and Iran. Washington wants Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro to leave power, and is concerned about Iran's nuclear program and regional influence. (Reporting By Steve Holland; editing by Jonathan Oatis) PANAMA CITY BEACH, Fla. (Reuters) - President Donald Trump said on Wednesday that China "broke the deal" in trade talks with Washington and would face stiff tariffs if no agreement is reached. "You see the tariffs we're doing?" Trump told a rally with supporters in Florida. "Because they broke the deal. ... They broke the deal. So they're flying in. The vice premier tomorrow is flying in, but they broke the deal. They can't do that. So they'll be paying. If we don't make the deal, nothing wrong with taking in more than $100 billion a year." Trump has threatened to impose additional tariffs on Chinese goods beginning on Friday after China backtracked on substantial commitments it made during ongoing trade talks, top U.S. trade officials said this week. (Reporting by Jeff Mason; Writing by David Alexander; Editing by Peter Cooney) WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. President Donald Trump said on Thursday the United States was looking very seriously at North Korea's latest missile launch and that while North Korea wants to negotiate with the United States, he does not think it is ready to do so. "We're looking at it very seriously right now. They were smaller missiles, they were short-range missiles," Trump told reporters at the White House. "Nobody's happy about it but we're taking a good look and we'll see." North Korea fired what appeared to be two short-range missiles on Thursday, its second such test in less than a week and an apparent protest by leader Kim Jong Un after Trump rejected his calls for sanctions relief at a summit in February. "The relationship continues ... I know they want to negotiate, they're talking about negotiating. But I don't think they're ready to negotiate," Trump said. North Korea has effectively pulled back from engagement with Washington since the February summit, which fell apart without agreement on U.S. demands for the dismantling of Pyongyang's nuclear program and Kim's demands for relief from punishing sanctions. (Reporting by Steve Holland; Writing by Mohammad Zargham; Editing by James Dalgleish) Senate passed elections (amendment) bill ISLAMABAD: The Senate on Wednesday passed the elections (amendment) bill, removing the last legal hitch in the way of upcoming provincial assembly polls for 16 general seats in the Fata. The bill to amend Section 20 of the Elections Act, 2017, has already been passed by the National Assembly to give a legal cover to the delimitation carried out by the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) allocating one seat to the scattered frontier regions, in order to avert the disenfranchisement of these populations. The new Sub-section 2-A has been inserted into Section 20, and reads: For the purpose of delimiting constituencies, for the general seats of the provincial assembly of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa for tribal areas, two or more separate areas may be grouped into one constituency for their elections to be held in 2019 and by-elections related therein, and thereafter this sub-section shall stand omitted. Article continues after ad Earlier, an ordinance to this effect had been promulgated by the president on Jan 1, a day before the ECP notified the draft delimitation proposal for the tribal districts. The bill was passed shortly after the opposition parties staged a walkout from the house to protest the absence of Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi in order to explain the controversial remarks Prime Minister Imran Khan made in Iran. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Azam Khan Swati had a Foreign Office brief and was ready to respond on behalf of the foreign minister regarding the statement the prime minister made in Tehran that terrorists had in the past used Pakistans soil to undertake attacks in Iran. The opposition benches did not allow Mr Swati to respond, however, and insisted that, first, Prime Minister Imran Khan should have been present in the house to defend his statement, and second, if not, then Mr Qureshi should at least have been present as the statement had wide implications. Mr Swati insisted that there was no such requirement in the law and under the principle of collective responsibility, he had the right to respond on behalf of his Cabinet colleague. Senate Chairman Muhammad Sadiq Sanjrani also upheld the position taken by the minister, prompting the opposition to stage a walkout. Soon after, Leader of the House Senator Shibli Faraz criticised the disruption of house proceedings more than once within a week and blamed former chairman of the Senate and PPP Senator Mian Raza Rabbani for the mess. He said Mr Rabbani used to run the Senate like a military academy and was very strict in allowing points of order during proceedings, but regretted that his (Mr Rabbani) standards appear to have changed as now, disruption starts soon after the recitation from the Holy Quran. It must be seen how much the opposition is serious about the running of the house, he said. Mr Faraz also said that one or two other opposition lawmakers were also instrumental in planning these walkouts a statement that was endorsed by his party colleague Senator Noman Wazir. The chair, in his ruling, said that the opposition benches should propose an amendment to the constitutional provision of collective responsibility. He also said that not a single prime minister had ever attended the Zero Hour since rules were amended to bind the chief executive to respond to senators answers. Earlier, former Senate chairman Mr Rabbani said that the prime minister should himself have come to the house to explain his statement. He also read out Rule 61 (2-A) of the rules of procedure and conduct of business in the Senate, under which the prime minister is to respond to questions related to him once in a week during Zero Hour. Nauman Wazir of the PTI pointed out that words like whenever possible and when available had been used in the rule, which clearly means it was not bending. Washington (AFP) - US President Donald Trump said Thursday that he is open to talks with the Iranian leadership, amid mounting tensions between Washington and Tehran. "What I would like to see with Iran, I would like to see them call me," Trump told reporters at the White House. "We don't want them to have nuclear weapons -- not much to ask," he said. The US president also launched an extraordinary attack on John Kerry, claiming that the former US secretary of state was in touch with Iranian leaders and had told them "not to call." "John Kerry, he speaks to them a lot," Trump said. "He tells them not to call." Trump claimed this was a violation of the Logan Act, which prohibits private US citizens from negotiating with foreign governments. "Frankly, he should be prosecuted on that," he said. "But they should call," Trump said. "If they do, we are open to talk to them." The United States has deployed an aircraft carrier to the Gulf amid the rising tensions, but Trump said Washington was not looking for a conflict with Tehran. "I want them to be strong and great, to have a great economy," Trump said, adding that "we can make a fair deal." Prosecutions of US citizens under the Logan Act, which was enacted in 1799, are extremely rare. Kerry, as secretary of state under president Barack Obama, was involved in negotiating the agreement aimed at curtailing Tehran's nuclear program. The 2015 JCPOA, or Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, between Iran and world powers including the EU offered sanctions relief to the Islamic republic for scaling back its nuclear program. Trump pulled the United States out of the agreement in May of last year and reinstated unilateral economic sanctions. On Wednesday, President Hassan Rouhani said Iran would no longer implement parts of the deal and threatened to go further if the remaining members of the pact failed to deliver sanctions relief to counterbalance Trump's renewed assault on the Iranian economy within 60 days. Story continues A spokesman for Kerry condemned Trump's remarks as "theater." "Everything President Trump said today is simply wrong, end of story," the spokesman said in a statement. "He's wrong about the facts, wrong about the law, and sadly he's been wrong about how to use diplomacy to keep America safe. "Secretary Kerry helped negotiate a nuclear agreement that worked to solve an intractable problem," the statement said. "The world supported it then and supports it still. "We'd hope the President would focus on solving foreign policy problems for America instead of attacking his predecessors for theater." WASHINGTON President Donald Trump said Thursday he received a "beautiful letter" from Chinese President Xi Jinping and would likely speak to him during a critical point in high-stakes trade negotiations between the two countries. U.S. and Chinese negotiators are scheduled to meet later Thursday, days after Trump threatened new tariffs if China refused to sign onto a new trade agreement. "We were getting very close to a deal and then they started renegotiating the deal," Trump told reporters on Thursday. "It was their idea to come back. He just wrote me a beautiful letter. I just received it. Ill probably speak to him by phone." While Trump said China wants a deal, he has said he is also happy with tariffs that he claims put "over $100 Billion a year" in U.S. coffers a claim most economists say is the wrong analysis because China retaliates with tariffs of its own, and both countries pass on the costs of tariffs to consumers. During months of negotiations, Trump has periodically threatened increased tariffs on China, but delayed them amid signs of progress towards a new trade agreement. At one point, officials saw this round of talks as putting the finishing touches on a final agreement between the world's two largest economies; now negotiators are trying to avoid collapse of the talks altogether. Each side pointed the finger at each other as a Chinese delegation arrived in Washington for the new discussions. "They broke the deal," Trump said during his political rally in Florida. "They can't do that, so they'll be paying." China said it is negotiating in good faith. In Beijing on Thursday, a spokesman for China's Ministry of Commerce disputed Trump's claims of "backtracking," and said that China is committed and has kept its promises" throughout the process. Negotiation is a process of exchanging opinions and reaching consensus," said spokesman Gao Feng. "It is normal to have different views." This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Trump says he received 'beautiful letter' from China's Xi Jinping amid tense trade talks Donald Trump is questioning his administrations aggressive strategy in Venezuela following the failure of a US-backed effort to oust Nicolas Maduro, complaining he was misled about how easy it would be to replace the socialist president with a young opposition figure, according to administration officials and White House advisers. The presidents dissatisfaction has crystallised around national security adviser John Bolton and what Mr Trump has groused is an interventionist stance at odds with his view that the United States should stay out of foreign quagmires. Mr Trump has said in recent days that Mr Bolton wants to get him into a war a comment he has made in jest in the past but that now belies his more serious concerns, one senior administration official said. The administrations policy is officially unchanged in the wake of a fizzled power play last week by US-backed opposition leader Juan Guaido. But US officials have since been more cautious in their predictions of Mr Maduros swift exit, while re-assessing what one official described as the likelihood of a diplomatic long haul. US officials point to the presidents sustained commitment to the Venezuela issue, from the first weeks of his presidency as evidence that he holds a realistic view of the challenges there, and does not think there is a quick fix. But Mr Trump has nonetheless complained over the last week that Mr Bolton and others underestimated Mr Maduro, according to three senior administration officials who like others interviewed for this story spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss private deliberations. Mr Trump has said Mr Maduro is a tough cookie, and that aides should not have led him to believe that the Venezuelan leader could be ousted last week, when Mr Guaido led mass street protests that turned deadly. Instead, Mr Maduro rejected an offer to leave the country and two key figures in his government backed out of what Mr Bolton said had been a plan to defect. Story continues Mr Maduro publicly mocked Mr Trump in response and said he wasnt going anywhere, saying the United States had attempted a foolish coup. Late on Wednesday, masked Venezuelan intelligence police detained National Assembly Vice President Edgar Zambrano in a dramatic operation in Caracas, marking the first senior opposition official taken into custody by the socialist government in retaliation for the failed military uprising. Mr Zambrano is one of 10 opposition officials charged with treason, conspiracy and rebellion by the pro-Maduro Supreme Court in connection to the plot. Mr Bolton publicly revealed the defection plan to apply pressure to Mr Maduro, which US officials said has worked. They claim Mr Maduro is sleeping in a bunker, paranoid that close aides will turn on him. But Mr Trump has expressed concern that Mr Bolton has boxed him into a corner and gone beyond where he is comfortable, said a US official familiar with US-Venezuela policy. Mr Boltons tweets egging on Mr Maduro to begin an early retirement on a nice beach and urging for mass defections have been widely viewed as cavalier, raising unrealistic expectation for how quickly his ouster can be engineered, the US official said. Despite Mr Trumps grumbling that Bolton had gotten him out on a limb on Venezuela, Mr Boltons job is safe, two senior administration officials said, and Mr Trump has told his national security adviser to keep focusing on Venezuela. The open threat of US military involvement in Venezuela has grown alongside the administrations increasingly confrontational approach to Iran, with Mr Bolton announcing last weekend that a US aircraft carrier battle group would be deployed to counter Iranian plots to harm US forces in the Middle East. In both cases, the administration has adopted a get-tough policy that appeals to Mr Trumps instincts to project American power abroad but that also echoes the kind of military adventurism he has long ridiculed. Mr Trump appears more comfortable with the Iran policy, which is grounded in his own strong belief that the former president, Barack Obama, miscalculated in striking a nuclear bargain with Tehran. He is less comfortable with the escalating rhetoric on Venezuela, which does not pose a direct military threat to the United States. Any US military involvement there risks a proxy fight with Russia, which backs Mr Maduro and has sold him arms. Mr Trump spoke approvingly of Russian actions in Venezuela following a lengthy phone call with Vladimir Putin on Friday, saying the Russian president is not looking at all to get involved in Venezuela other than hed like to see something positive happen for Venezuela. And I feel the same way. We want to get some humanitarian aid. His comments stood in contrast to earlier statements from Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Mr Bolton, who accused Russia of propping up Mr Maduro with money and military equipment. During the Putin call, Mr Trump expressed his concern about the security and humanitarian situation on the ground in Venezuela, said a person briefed on the call. Mr Putin agreed with Mr Trumps assessment but said that the US position has solidified Mr Maduros grip on power in Venezuela. Mr Putin also told Mr Trump that Moscow was not selling new weapons to Venezuela but maintaining existing contracts and he downplayed Russias financial investments in the country. The events of 30 April have effectively shelved serious discussion of a heavy US military response, current and former officials as well as outside advisers said. Rather, US officials think time is on their side and that Mr Maduro will fall of his own weight. That waiting game poses its own risk, however, if Mr Guaido asks for US military assistance. Mike Pompeo brushed off criticism from Jeremy Corbyn about US interference in Venezuela during an interview Wednesday in London. Providing food to starving children isnt interference. Its support; its what we do, Mr Pompeo said. Its in our deepest traditions of humanitarian assistance. The interference has taken place; the Cubans are there. Theyve interfered. So I hope Mr Corbyn will ask the Cubans to cease their interference in Venezuela. Vice President Mike Pence was measured in his threats to Mr Maduro during remarks at a gathering of Latin American leaders in Washington on Tuesday, saying that Maduro must go, but also signalling that it might not happen quickly. Mr Pence announced deployment of a Navy hospital ship to the region in June, and said the United States would lift sanctions on one senior Maduro aide who had switched sides. That was a shift from previous rhetoric about the tightening yoke of sanctions, and meant to emphasise that there are carrots in the US policy as well as sticks, one senior official said. The famously hawkish Mr Bolton has been the loudest voice within the administration in support of a potential military response to the political and humanitarian crisis in Venezuela, where escalating US sanctions have not forced Mr Maduro to cede power. He was not the first, however. Mr Trump mused about invading or bombing Venezuela last year, comments that were at first dismissed as fanciful. He is now not inclined to have any sort of military intervention in Venezuela, two officials and an outside adviser said. Mr Trump has, in Oval Office meetings and phone calls with advisers, questioned his administration providing such strong support of Mr Guaido. Some White House officials said Mr Trump likes the charismatic leader, whom he has called courageous, but has wondered aloud whether he is ready to take over and about how much the administration really knows about him. Mr Guaidos many supporters within the administration say he has proved himself as the first Venezuelan opposition leader to unite factions and pose a credible threat to Mr Maduro. His standing within the country is borne out by the fact that Mr Maduro has not seized or harmed him, fearing a backlash, some officials said. Senator Lindsey Graham said he has no concern that the United States is making a bad bet on Mr Guaido. Oh God, no. Smart money, Mr Graham said. I think hes the future of Venezuela. Hes young, hes the solution not the problem. Mr Graham also said Mr Trump has been well served by his advisers, including Mr Bolton. Mr Pompeo was also bullish about Mr Maduros ouster last week, saying after the plan faltered that Mr Maduro had been heading to the airport before Russian advisers talked him out of leaving. Mr Maduro denied it. Senator Marco Rubio, who has been influential in shaping the administrations Venezuela response, said Mr Trump and Mr Bolton are on the same page. Mr Rubio, who said he spoke to Mr Trump about Venezuela on Tuesday evening, backs the policy of waiting out Mr Maduro. Hes in the same mind-set that Im in, and that is that weve got to stay the course, its working, Mr Rubio said in an interview. Mr Rubio said some of the harshest US sanctions are only now having full effect, including sowing dissension among Mr Maduro's aides. Only now are you starting to see it burn and I think thats whats causing some of this internal friction in the regime. US defence leaders regard any military scenario involving boots on the ground in Venezuela as a quagmire, and warn that standoff weapons such as Tomahawk missiles run a major risk of killing civilians. The White House has repeatedly asked for military planning short of invasion, however. Officials said the options under discussion while Mr Maduro is still in power include sending additional military assets to the region, increasing aid to neighbouring countries such as Colombia, and other steps to provide humanitarian assistance to displaced Venezuelans outside of Venezuela. More forward-leaning options include sending naval ships to waters off Venezuela as a show of force. Other steps under discussion are intended for after Mr Maduro is gone, when US military personnel might be permitted inside Venezuela to help with humanitarian responses. John Feeley, a former US ambassador and Univision political analyst, said there is another reason that military intervention is unlikely. It runs counter to Donald Trumps 2020 re-election narrative. At a time when youre pulling people back from Syria, back from Iraq, back from Afghanistan, how do you say were going to commit 50-, 100-, 150,000 of our blood and treasure to a country where you cant tell the bad guys from the good guys? Mr Feeley said. The Washington Post Washington (AFP) - US President Donald Trump rushed to his son's defense on Thursday after a Senate panel ordered that Donald Trump Jr testify as part of its investigation into Russia election interference. It was the first known legal summons issued by Congress to a member of the president's family to force testimony in the ongoing investigation. "I was very surprised," Trump told reporters about the Senate Intelligence Committee's subpoena to the eldest of his five children. The order by the Republican-run committee that is known for its bipartisanship comes after Special Counsel Robert Mueller decided there was insufficient evidence to charge Trump with any crime related to possible conspiracy to collude with the Russians. "My son is a very good person, he works very hard. The last thing he needs is Washington DC. I think he'd rather not ever be involved," Trump said. Trump Jr has already testified at length to the committee, and was "totally exonerated by Mueller," his father said. "For my son, after being exonerated, to now get a subpoena to go again, to speak again after close to 20 hours after telling everybody that would listen about a nothing meeting? Yeah, I'm pretty surprised." The 41-year-old Don Jr testified voluntarily in private once to the committee, and was peppered with questions about a June 9, 2016 meeting in Trump Tower in New York that he and other senior Trump campaign officials had with a Russian lawyer offering dirt on Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton. It is also believed he was quizzed about his knowledge or involvement in a project to build a Trump Tower in Moscow that Trump pursued even as he ran for president in 2016. In Senate Judiciary Committee testimony, Trump Jr said he was only "peripherally aware" of the potential deal. But Mueller's report states that the chief handler of the project, Trump's now-jailed personal lawyer Michael Cohen, briefed Trump Jr about the project "on multiple occasions." Story continues The president said part of his surprise stemmed from seeing Republican Senator and intelligence committee chairman Richard Burr tell US media that there was no evidence of collusion between Russian operatives and Trump or his campaign to influence the 2016 election. Burr has not spoken publicly about the latest subpoena, or whether Trump Jr might invoke his constitutional right to not testify. Republican committee member Marco Rubio, when asked about Trump Jr, said the panel was "leaving nothing unchecked" in its investigation. But Senator John Cornyn sounded unenthusiastic about hauling Trump Jr in for more questioning. "We've been at this for about two years," he said. "I think we know pretty much everything we are going to learn, and I think we ought to wrap it up." By Massimo Pinca TURIN, Italy (Reuters) - Turin's international book fair refused on Thursday to let a publishing house run by an avowed fascist exhibit at the event following a protest by the Auschwitz-Birkenau Holocaust museum and Italian intellectuals. Altaforte Edizioni, founded and run by far-right activist Francesco Polacchi, had been due to present its books at the prestigious event. But when the fair began, its stand had been dismantled at the request of local authorities, officials said. Polacchi, who earlier this week said Italy's real problem was "anti-fascism", denounced the decision and protested outside the conference center holding the fair in the northern city of Turin. "Altaforte Edizioni does not bend to the logic of a single way of thinking ... Books cannot and must not face censorship," he said on Facebook. Earlier this week, the Auschwitz-Birkenau museum, on the site of the former Nazi death camp, threatened to drop plans for a panel at the fair with Holocaust survivor and writer Halina Birenbaum if Altaforte was allowed to show. Birenbaum thanked organizers for blocking the publisher. "After surviving Auschwitz, this is further proof, for me, that evil will not win," she said in a statement. Altaforte recently published a book of interviews with far-right League leader Matteo Salvini, who serves as deputy prime minister and interior minister. He denounced the decision to block the company. "We are in 2019 and we are censoring books based on ideas ... ideas are answered with other ideas, not censorship," Salvini told a political rally in the city of Pesaro. The fair's organizers had said previously that Altaforte had the right to a stand because the group had never been convicted of crimes related to fascism. The city of Turin, which is governed by the anti-establishment 5-Star Movement, and the broader Piedmont region, run by the center-left Democratic Party, issued statements saying they would sue Polacchi for his fascist views. The city and region subsequently told the fair's organizers to bar entrance to Altaforte. "The City of Turin and the Piedmont Region formally asked the International Book Fair to cancel the contract with Altaforte," Turin Mayor Chiara Appendino wrote on Facebook. "The escalating tensions, the recent comments by (Altaforte's) representatives and the doubts expressed by authors and exhibitors made this an obvious choice," she said. (Additional reporting by Crispian Balmer and Angelo Amante; Editing by Andrew Cawthorne) By Julia Love MEXICO CITY (Reuters) - After a long push in Mexico, China's Huawei landed a coveted job in 2017: supplying equipment for the country's so-called "red compartida," an ambitious telecommunications network built for carriers delivering the latest generation of technology. The contract came with a catch. Altan Redes, the company developing the network, announced that the most delicate work involving the system's "core" and sites near the U.S. border would go to Nokia, and awarded Huawei southern and central Mexico. Political sensitivities around Huawei, which the United States has denounced since 2012 as an untrustworthy agent of the Chinese government, factored into the decision, according to two people with knowledge of the matter. But limiting Huawei Technologies Co Ltd's role was easier said than done. While sites along the U.S. border remain with Nokia, Huawei has since gained work in three cities in northern Mexican regions that Altan had said publicly would go to Nokia, according to four other people with knowledge of the matter and messages viewed by Reuters. Huawei began working in the cities late last year, one of the people said. The three cities - Tampico, Torreon and Culiacan are located in northern Mexico but are not close the border. Altan's plans for the network are fluid and could change, the sources noted. Altan said in a statement that its decision to divide the work between Nokia and Huawei in that way was made "exclusively on technical and economic optimization criteria," adding that it was not informed of U.S. concerns about Huawei. The company said no cities awarded to vendors were reassigned, and Huawei and Nokia "equally delivered their plans." A U.S. State Department official said the department remains concerned that Chinese equipment in 5G networks could give the Chinese government access to sensitive data. A Huawei spokesman described the U.S. campaign as an effort to "attack and contain Huawei, without presenting any concrete evidence." Story continues Huawei's northward expansion in Altan's network, previously unreported, underscores the Chinese firm's combination of speed, manpower and technological sophistication, Mexican telecom executives say. "It's too late" to reverse Huawei's strong presence in Mexico, said Marco Galvan, a senior director for trade group GSMA. Huawei's potent appeal also shows how telecom operators globally are trying to balance the need for the Chinese company's affordable and reliable equipment with the U.S. campaign to steer countries away from using its gear, Mexican telecom executives say. After acquiring two local wireless companies, AT&T removed Huawei equipment from sensitive parts of its Mexican network. But AT&T still uses the Chinese firms gear in the country, according to two people with knowledge of the matter. That is due in part to Huaweis deep bench and swift execution, the people said. When we upgraded our Mexico network to 4G LTE, we replaced Huawei in our data core network because we wanted a data core network design like we have in the United States, AT&T Mexico said in a statement. The approaches taken by Altan and AT&T, detailed in interviews with two dozen people familiar with Huawei's operations, point to new ground rules for working with the Chinese company in Mexico: Limit use of Huawei gear in "the core" - the brains of the cellular network that processes data from towers - and tread carefully along the border. But some telecom experts say it is harder to wall off the core in the coming fifth generation, or 5G, networks. In its statement, Altan said the nearest Huawei cell site equipment is 1,549 km from the border town of Tijuana and 499 km from Matamoros, which neighbors Texas. "The equipment disperses a signal with a radius of 15 kilometers, so there is not even remotely close contact with the northern border," Altan said. Three people familiar with the decision said Altan gave the northern cities to Huawei following some problems with Nokia's performance, including delays submitting documentation and slow response times. Dimitri Diliani, Nokia's global head of end-to-end solutions, said in an interview that the company met all key objectives and its share of the Altan project has not changed. "You always have hiccups and delays," he said. "At the end of the day, we passed all of the hurdles." Specific cities were not assigned in the contract, Diliani said. It is not unusual for some cities to shift within large projects, a Nokia spokeswoman added. Cesar Funes, a Huawei vice president, said Mexican customers have asked the company for its response to the U.S. allegations, but business remains strong. He said he was not aware of whether Huawei had won work in the three cities but noted the company has managed to extend its reach in past projects. Vendors typically start with a certain share of a project, "but based on your performance, you could get more," he said in an interview. "I have experienced that already in this country." The U.S. government has intensified its fight against Huawei as countries prepare to deploy 5G networks, which will serve as the gateway to new technological frontiers such as self-driving cars and internet-connected appliances. Altans wholesale network, which offers capacity to retail telecom competitors in Mexico, is prepared to quickly transition to 5G, the company has said. TENSION AT THE BORDER As early as the 1990s, Huawei executives began pitching their services in Mexico. Competing aggressively on price and recruiting talent, Huawei eventually won big swaths of the market, supplying virtually all major players, including Mexican billionaire Carlos Slim's America Movil. The wholesale network, part of a 2013-14 telecom reform aimed at promoting competition, was an enticing opportunity for Huawei to build a cutting-edge network from scratch, Funes said. Backed by a fund managed by Morgan Stanley Infrastructure and IFC Asset Management Companys China-Mexico Fund, Altan won a tender to launch the network in 2016. The prospect of Chinese participation in a sophisticated national telecom network attracted U.S. scrutiny early on. The U.S. State Department met with Mexico's ministry for communications and transportation twice in 2016 to voice concerns about Huawei's potential involvement in the project, according to a former senior U.S. State Department official. The State Department did not ask Mexico to ban Huawei, but it did warn Mexican officials of security risks posed by the Chinese firm, the former official said. Some Mexican officials questioned why the United States was so concerned since AT&T was working with Huawei in the country, the former official recalled. Salma Jalife, Mexico's undersecretary for communications and technological development, declined to comment. The State Department also met with Mexico's Federal Telecommunications Institute (IFT), which regulates the industry, in late 2016 to discuss concerns regarding Huawei's potential participation in the network, especially along the border, according to a Mexican official. A U.S. State Department official said the government works closely with Mexico and declined to comment on specific meetings. An IFT spokeswoman declined to comment. The Huawei spokesman stressed the company's independence from the Chinese government. Altan ultimately struck its compromise, tapping both Huawei and Nokia. "The balance of the allocation of infrastructure between the technological providers is optimal, avoiding an exclusive dependence on either one," Altan said in a statement. Most carriers in Mexico are still sold on Huawei, said Galvan of GSMA. "(Huawei) brought as many resources as necessary to Mexico from China," he said. "They did what it takes." (Reporting by Julia Love; additional reporting by Tarmo Virki and Lesley Wroughton; Editing by Jonathan Weber and Edward Tobin) By Michelle Nichols UNITED NATIONS, May 9 (Reuters) - The United States seems to be crafting a plan for a Palestinian surrender to Israel instead of a peace deal, Palestinian Foreign Minister Riyad al-Maliki told a meeting at the United Nations attended by U.S. Middle East peace negotiator Jason Greenblatt. Greenblatt and senior White House adviser Jared Kushner have spent two years developing a peace proposal that they hope will provide a framework for renewed talks between the Israelis and Palestinians. The plan is expected to be unveiled in June. "We cannot afford not to engage with any peace efforts, but the U.S. administration efforts cannot be characterized, nor can qualify, as peace efforts, unfortunately," al-Maliki told the informal meeting of members of the U.N. Security Council on Israeli settlements in occupied Palestinian territory. "All indicates thus far that this is not a peace plan, but rather conditions for surrender and there's no amount of money that can make it acceptable," he said. The U.S. Middle East proposal has two major components - a political piece that addresses core issues such as the status of Jerusalem, and an economic part that aims to strengthen the Palestinian economy. Kushner and Greenblatt have not said if it calls for a two-state solution, a goal of past peace efforts. "The vision for peace that we will soon put forward will be realistic and implementable, but it will require compromises from both sides," Greenblatt told the meeting at the United Nations, which was organized by Indonesia. "We genuinely hope both the Israelis and Palestinians will take a real look at our vision for peace when we release it, before any unilateral steps are taken," he said. The Palestinians have dismissed U.S. efforts since President Donald Trump decided in 2017 to move the U.S. Embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem and declare Jerusalem Israel's capital. The Palestinians want a state in the West Bank, east Jerusalem and the Gaza Strip, all territory captured by Israel in 1967. "Some ask us 'what if they surprise you?' We tell them we would have been more hopeful had they not been deaf to our appeals, blind to Israel violations, and mute - at best - on the fundamentals of peace, when not actively undermining them," al-Maliki said. (Reporting by Michelle Nichols at the United Nations Editing by James Dalgleish) U.S. officials are pausing efforts to recover the remains of American solders who went missing in the Korean War, citing a lack of cooperation from North Korea after a failed summit between President Donald Trump and Kim Jung Un in late February. We have reached the point where we can no longer effectively plan, coordinate, and conduct field operations in the DPRK during this fiscal year, the Department of Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) said in a statement to NPR. The DPAAs fiscal year ends at the end of September. North Korea had been actively working with the U.S. on recovery efforts since U.S. President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jung Un discussed the topic at their historic first summit in Singapore last year. A week after the summit, North Korea handed over 55 boxes of remains to the U.N. But since Trump and Kims second summit in Hanoi ended abruptly with no deal, DPAA officials say their North Korean counterparts have stopped communicating, according to NPR. The DPAA says they are now assessing possible next steps in resuming communications, for the 2020 fiscal year according to NPR. The agency plans to shift gears and focus on identifying remains already in their possession. In 2019, remains of more than a dozen soldiers, most of which were found decades ago, have been identified, reports NPR. Read More: This Korean War Veterans Remains Were Lost for Nearly 70 Years. Heres How Cutting-Edge Science Brought Him Home Almost 7,700 soldiers were left unaccounted for after the Korean War, which lasted from 1950 to 1953, according to the DPAAs website. Approximately 5,300 of those are estimated to be in North Korea. Between 1990 and 2005, North Korea returned 229 caskets containing U.S. soldier remains. The remains of an additional seven soldiers were turned over in 2007. By Patricia Zengerle WASHINGTON, May 9 (Reuters) - A Democratic-led U.S. House of Representatives committee moved on Thursday toward restoring hundreds of millions of dollars of aid to Central America that was cut off by President Donald Trump, setting up a potential showdown with the White House. A House Appropriations subcommittee released a draft of its bill funding the State Department and foreign aid programs for the fiscal year ending Sept. 30, 2020, that rejects the Republican president's proposals for steep cuts. It also seeks to influence policy, including by prohibiting funds from supporting the sale of nuclear technology to Saudi Arabia and removing a Republican-led prohibition on contributions to the U.N. Green Climate Fund, and prohibits the use of funds to withdraw from the Paris climate agreement. The Trump administration said in March it would cut aid to El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras after Trump blasted the three countries because thousands of their citizens had sought asylum at the U.S. border with Mexico. Several lawmakers, including some of Trump's fellow Republicans, rejected that plan. They said it was cruel to cut off aid to countries grappling with hunger and crime, and the move would more likely increase the number of migrants than decrease it. The draft bill directs that no less than $540.8 million be made available for the Central American countries, and requires that the administration spend money as directed in previous years' spending bills. Overall, the bill provides $56.4 billion in base funding for diplomacy and foreign aid, $2.2 billion more than the fiscal 2019 level, or $13.7 billion more than Trump included in his budget request. Lawmakers, again including some of Trump's closest Republican allies, had rejected his plan to cut spending on diplomacy and foreign aid by more than 20 percent. The draft bill could face resistance in the Republican-controlled Senate, as it also seeks to end Trump administration policies restricting funding for a variety of organizations involved in women's reproductive health. Story continues Those policies include the administration's expansion of the "Mexico City" policy barring U.S. health assistance going directly or indirectly to organizations that provide abortions, abortion counseling or referrals. The House Appropriations State and Foreign Operations subcommittee is due to debate the draft bill on Friday. To become law, the measure must pass the House and Senate and be signed by Trump. (Reporting by Patricia Zengerle; Editing by Bernadette Baum) U.S. authorities have seized a North Korean ship that was transporting coal in violation of international sanctions, the Department of Justice announced Thursday. The North Korean ship, the Wise Honest, is the first seized by U.S. authorities over sanctions violations. It is now approaching U.S. territorial waters accompanied by the U.S. Marshals and Coast Guard. This sanctions-busting ship is now out of service, Assistant Attorney General John Demers said in announcing the seizure. U.S. banks, unaware of the Wise Honests home port, financed its servicing and equipment, according to the Department of Justice. A civil complaint seeking the ships forfeiture was filed in the Southern District of New York on Thursday after the ship was taken into U.S. custody. The complaint indicates that a warrant was issued for the seizure in July 2018, after Indonesian authorities seized the ship and convicted its North Korean captain of offenses related to improper documentation for the ship. The seizure comes after North Korea launched two short-range missiles early Thursday morning in its second weapons test in less than a week. The US and South Korean intelligence authority is conducting analysis for additional information, the South Korean Joint Chiefs of Staff said in a statement. Our military has currently heightened its surveillance and alertness against possible additional launches, whilst maintaining combat readiness in close coordination with the US. The latest round of missile testing and the seizure of a North Korean vessel appear to further jeopardize any chance of gradual North Korean denuclearization, discussion of which began during last years summit between Kim Jong-un and President Trump. Despite a rhetorical commitment to improving relations, the summit concluded prematurely after Kim demanded the dismissal of Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and a complete lifting of U.S. sanctions before any progress toward denuclearization could be made. More from National Review By Stephanie Nebehay GENEVA (Reuters) - The United States called on North Korea on Thursday to dismantle camps estimated to be holding tens of thousands of political prisoners, while Pyongyang hit back at Washington's sanctions. U.S. President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un have met twice in the last year, with Washington seeking curbs on Pyongyang's nuclear programme and North Korea pursuing sanctions relief - but the rapprochement appears to be in limbo. "The human rights situation in North Korea is deplorable and has no parallel in the modern world," senior U.S. diplomat Mark Cassayre told the United Nations Human Rights Council during a five-year review of North Korea's record. U.N. rights investigators have estimated between 80,000 to 120,000 people are in political detention camps in North Korea where torture and other violations are taking place that they say may amount to crimes against humanity. As well as urging those camps to be closed and their inmates released, charge d'affaires Cassayre exhorted authorities to allow aid workers unrestricted movement and access to people in need, and to tolerate possession of religious texts. North Korea, which also came under criticism from countries including Britain, Canada and France at Thursday's meeting, again denied the existence of political prisoners and camps. However, its delegation said that "spies and terrorists who are sent by hostile forces" and those who commit "subversive acts" are kept in "reform institutions" separately from ordinary prisoners, although "they are not many in number". "People's rights to life and fundamental freedoms are fully ensured," North Korean ambassador Han Tae Song told the 47-member forum. However, U.S. sanctions were hampering North Koreans' enjoyment of life, he said. "Such anachronistic acts are very dangerous," Han said, noting that Kim's summits both with Trump and South Korea augured a new era of peace on the divided Korean peninsula. Story continues Despite that, North Korea fired what appeared to be two short-range missiles on Thursday, the South's military said, less than a week after Kim oversaw the test-firing of multiple rockets and a missile. At the rights forum, North Korea's most powerful ally China urged it to continue to promote economic, social and sustainable development. The international community should engage in sincere dialogue with Pyongyang towards "denuclearisation and a lasting peace on the peninsula", it added. (Reporting by Stephanie Nebehay; Editing by Tom Miles and Andrew Cawthorne) DUBAI, May 9 (Reuters) - The United Arab Emirates' civil aviation authority said on Thursday it is unable to specify when the ban on the grounded Boeing 737 MAX will be lifted, state news agency WAM reported. "The GCAA (General Civil Aviation Authority) team recently participated in Joint Authorities Technical Review team meetings which has been formed to look into Flight Control System of B737-8 Max," the statement added. The plane was grounded worldwide in mid-March after two Boeing 737 MAX crashes in October and March killed 346 people. (Reporting by Stanley Carvalho; Writing by Tuqa Khalid;) Uber priced its IPO at $45 per share Thursday, toward the low end of its stated range. At the IPO price of $45 per share, the company will be valued on a non-diluted basis at about $75.46 billion, which will put the stock's market cap right around the size of Caterpillar's and make it one of the most valuable companies ever to go public. On a fully diluted basis, Uber has an implied market valuation of $82.4 billion. Early reports suggested Uber was seeking a valuation of up to $120 billion. Its expected range was between $44 and $50 per share, according to a filing last month. The company is offering 180 million shares of common stock, which means it could raise around $8.1 billion on Friday, with an option for underwriters to buy an additional 27 million shares. A ride-hailing pioneer and Silicon Valley darling, Uber made on-demand transportation a new norm throughout the world, while accumulating massive losses and controversy along the way. In 2018, Uber's revenue reached $11.3 billion for the year, up 43% from 2017, while reporting adjusted losses of $1.8 billion, an improvement over losses of $2.6 billion in 2017, according to its IPO filing. The company has never turned a profit. To cover these losses and fund its rapid expansion, the company raised more than $24 billion from a wide range of investors since its founding a decade ago, according to Crunchbase. Investors have included traditional VC firms like Benchmark, and companies with interests in transportation like Alphabet and Toyota. Its biggest shareholder is Japanese tech conglomerate SoftBank, which invested more than $8 billion through its Vision Fund and owns 16.3% of the company pre-IPO. "Uber is a great reminder to venture capitalists that the biggest opportunities lie in our most common needs as humans," said Shawn Carolan, an early Uber investor and partner at Menlo Ventures. "When a start-up presents, look beyond the current product, which often feels trivial, to the underlying need being served. An on-demand black car service was easy to dismiss, but nearly everyone needs transportation." Story continues At Uber, CEO Dara Khosrowshahi replaced co-founder Travis Kalanick in 2017 after myriad missteps for the company. Kalanick's ouster was preceded by revelations about unchecked sexism within Uber's ranks, and a high-stakes lawsuit over trade secrets from Waymo, Alphabet(GOOGL)'s self-driving car business. While Khosrowshahi is working to restore Uber's reputation, the company faced driver strikes in major cities this week leading up to the IPO. Personal mobility remains Uber's core business. Its ride-hailing services reach into 63 countries and more than 700 cities. But its ambitions and revenue streams have diversified into bike and scooter rentals, food delivery and freight. Uber is also developing air taxis and driverless car technology, among other things. Uber is engaged in an intense pricing battle with its chief competitor in the U.S., Lyft(LYFT), as the companies try to attract and retain riders with low fares, while paying drivers just enough to keep them on the platform. Lyft went public in late March. Its stock has fallen more than 25% since its IPO. The company plans to list on Friday with the ticker UBER. CNBC's Leslie Picker contributed to this article. Clarification: Uber priced its IPO at $45 per share on Thursday, toward the low end of its stated range. The relation of the price to the stated range was unclear in an earlier version of this article. By Joshua Franklin NEW YORK (Reuters) - Uber Technologies Inc priced its initial public offering on Thursday at the low end of its targeted range for a valuation of $82.4 billion, hoping its conservative approach will spare it the trading plunge suffered by rival Lyft Inc. It is an underwhelming result for the most anticipated IPO since Facebook Inc's market debut seven years ago. Uber raised $8.1 billion, pricing its IPO at $45 per share, close to the bottom of the targeted $44-$50 range. However, the IPO still represents a watershed moment for Uber, which has grown into the world's largest ride-hailing company since its start 10 years ago. The year's biggest IPO comes against a backdrop of turbulent financial markets, fueled by the trade dispute between the United States and China, as well as the plunging share price of Lyft, which is down 23 percent from its IPO price in late March. Uber's valuation in the IPO is almost a third less than its investment bankers predicted last year but still above its most recent valuation of $76 billion in the private fundraising market. The IPO was oversubscribed, but Uber settled for a lower price to avoid a repeat of Lyft's IPO in late March, which priced strongly then plunged in trade. Uber also wanted to accommodate big mutual funds, which unlike hedge funds put in orders for a lower price. Like Lyft, Uber will face questions going forward over how and when it expects to become profitable after losing $3 billion from operations in 2018. "Ultimately, the success of Lyft's and Uber IPO's offerings will be judged based on post-IPO performance and how these companies can sustain their growth, while moving toward profitability and lowering their cash burn," said Alex Castelli, managing partner at advisory firm CohnReznick. Despite Uber moderating its IPO expectations, some still consider the stock overpriced. "Uber is basically Lyft 2.0. Good model, growing sales. But, yet again, here comes California math once more. It is still losing a ton of money," said Brian Hamilton, a tech entrepreneur and founder of data firm Sageworks. "If you buy, you are buying a bull market, not a company," he added. In meetings with potential investors the past two weeks, Uber's chief executive Dara Khosrowshahi argued that Uber's future was not as a ride-hailing company, but as a wide technology platform shaping logistics and transportation. The IPO pricing was a balancing act for Uber's team of underwriting banks, led by Morgan Stanley, Goldman Sachs & Co and Bank of America Merrill Lynch, to negotiate a good price while leaving some upside to ensure the stock trades up on its market debut. Uber is due to begin trading on the New York Stock Exchange on Friday under the symbol "UBER." (Reporting by Joshua Franklin in New York; Editing by Leslie Adler, Matthew Lewis and Lisa Shumaker) Robert McNeil Wilson resigned over a tweet sent by Carl Benjamin (Pictured) (GETTY) UKIP MEP candidate Robert McNeil-Wilson has resigned from the party in protest over Carl Benjamins rape joke The Welsh MEP candidate said the party was no longer a serious, reasonable, responsible and credible party. In the case of it being too late for the EU to take him off the UKIP list, he will quit the EU Parliament immediately if he is elected. Carl Benjamin made an offensive rape 'joke' against Labour MP Jess Phillips (GETTY) Carl Benjamin came under fire after tweeting to Ms Phillips: I wouldn't even rape you. Mr Benjamin refused to apologise for my crimes against political correctness, adding:There's been an awful lot of talk about whether I would or wouldn't rape Jess Phillips. I've been in a lot of trouble for my hard line stance of not even raping her I suppose with enough pressure I might cave, but let's be honest, nobody's got that much beer. Read more on Yahoo News UK Theresa May plans another vote on her Brexit deal within two weeks - just before Euro elections Nigel Farage insists Euro elections will change everything as he says MPs do not understand how angry people are Jeremy Hunt warns of 'catastrophic' General Election for the Tories if they fail to deliver Brexit West Midlands Police said they are investigating to establish if an offence has taken place. Ukip has refused to drop him as a candidate in the forthcoming elections. The Mirror reports how a letter written by Mr McNeil-Wilson criticised party leader Gerard Batten for backing Mr Benjamin and Mr Meechan in a launch press conference. The letter read: The [EU election launch] press conference with the high-profile appointment, appearance and promotion of the two men whom Mr Batten announced as stand-up comedians has caused me to no longer believe in UKIP as a serious, reasonable, responsible and credible party for which I can work and represent. Mr Benjamin has defended his comments as a 'joke' (GETTY) I regret, therefore, that I must advise you that I have decided to terminate my membership of UKIP, with immediate effect. Mr McNeil-Wilson also confirmed his resignation to the Mirror and that he would now campaign for the Brexit Party. A UKIP spokesman said: We won't be commenting on the resignation. United Nations (United States) (AFP) - The UN Security Council will meet behind closed doors to discuss the humanitarian crisis in Libya as a month-long offensive on the capital grinds on, diplomats said on Thursday. Britain requested the Friday meeting so a UN aid official could brief representatives on the assault that has displaced 55,000 people and left more than 430 dead, the diplomats said on condition of anonymity. Libyan commander Khalifa Hafter, whose forces hold the east of the country, launched the offensive on April 4 to seize Tripoli, seat of the UN-recognized government. The council has been divided over how to respond to the crisis in Libya, forcing Britain to put on hold a draft resolution demanding a ceasefire. UNITED NATIONS (AP) The head of the U.N. Commission of Inquiry on Syria warned Thursday that an all-out conflict in the last major rebel stronghold in Idlib province would very likely increase human rights violations and generate a humanitarian catastrophe. Paulo Pinheiro told a news conference that the current aerial and ground offensive by the Syrian government and its allies is "a serious escalation" resulting in scores of civilian casualties and the displacement of over 150,000 people in just one week. The commission, established by the U.N. Human Rights Council, has been gathering evidence of alleged crimes against civilians during the nine-year civil war. Since the beginning of the year, Pinheiro said, the commission has been investigating deadly attacks against civilians by the Syrian government and its allies in Idlib and northern Hama, including on medical facilities, markets, schools and other civilian infrastructure. It has also investigated shelling by armed groups, including al-Qaida-linked Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, that has resulted "in scores of deaths and injuries," he said. Pinheiro also expressed concern about tens of thousands of civilians displaced during the final campaign to rout Islamic State extremists from territory it held in northern Syria. Many are "being held in limbo under dire humanitarian conditions" with only marginal access to food and medical care and are "being treated as security threats," he said. The commission said in a statement that "inevitably this has led to preventable deaths," noting that "up to 240 children have reportedly already perished due to malnutrition or untreated infected wounds." At Al-Hol camp in Hasahah, which was initially built to house up to 10,000 displaced people, there are now over 73,000. Ninety-two percent of them are women and children and 15 percent, or at least 11,000, are foreign nationals, the commission said. Story continues "Assistance provided thus far ... has been wholly insufficient," it said. The commission said many countries are refusing to repatriate their nationals, "solely because they assume they are families" of IS fighters. And some countries have taken further steps of stripping them of citizenship to prevent their return, "or approving their transfer to countries where they may be subject to torture, ill-treatment, or the death penalty," it said. Pinheiro said governments contemplating "such drastic action ... should, at a minimum, respect basic principles of due process including the right to a hearing and to appeal" losing citizenship. He said the commission "is particularly alarmed by the situation of children who are vulnerable to being left without a nationality." Some countries have offered to repatriate children without their mothers, which may run counter to the principle of "the best interests of the child," Pinheiro said, and some countries will only take back children under age 10 because they consider any child older than that a potential fighter. Pinheiro said several thousand suspected IS fighters mainly men and boys of fighting age including hundreds of foreign fighters from nearly 50 countries, are being "held incommunicado" by the Syrian military. Pinheiro warned that "incommunicado detention risks creating an environment where torture and ill-treatment can be perpetrated with impunity." The commission urges the Syrian military "to allow all detainees to be visited by an independent international humanitarian organization and human rights monitors," he said. (Reuters) - UnitedHealthcare Group said on Thursday it had launched a new program to cut maternity costs under which partner hospitals would be paid a fixed rate for care during and after pregnancy, rather than for every service rendered. Rising healthcare costs in the United States have become a topic of heated national debate and maternity care has been earmarked as a big driver of high-cost claims for large employers and health insurers. UnitedHealth's new bundled-payment program aims to reduce expenses by reimbursing hospitals or care providers with a single fee for a defined period of care that typically covers prenatal, delivery and postpartum services. The system is likely to reduce financial incentives for hospitals to charge more for expensive procedures such as C-sections as they will no longer be able to make separate claims for each doctor's visit, treatment or test provided during and after pregnancy. The largest U.S. health insurer's program comes as large companies such as General Electric Co make similar efforts to curb excessive spending on maternity care. GE has launched an effort to steer its employees to hospitals that are less likely to recommend unnecessary and costly interventions. UnitedHealth's program has been deployed at two healthcare providers so far and the company plans to expand the effort to as many as 20 care provider groups by end of the year. The health insurer has been working to reduce hospital admissions before delivery for pregnant women on its health plans and cut down on the number of non-medically required cesarean deliveries. The company hopes $75 billion worth of claims it pays out annually will be tied to arrangements like bundled payment programs by end of 2020. (Reporting by Tamara Mathias in Bengaluru; Editing by Shinjini Ganguli) Washington (AFP) - US regulators on Thursday denied a request by China Mobile to operate in the US market and provide international telecommunications services, saying links to the Chinese government pose a national security risk. The Federal Communications Commission said that because of China Mobile USA's ownership and control by the Chinese government, allowing it into the US market "would raise substantial and serious national security and law enforcement risks." The decision brings the Chinese telecoms giant's eight-year effort to crack the US market to an end, but was not really a surprise since FCC Chairman Ajit Pai had publicly opposed the company's application last month. China Mobile -- the world's largest mobile operator with nearly 930 million customers as of February -- first filed an application for permission to operate in the United States in 2011. The five-member FCC said in a statement that the decision was made after "extensive review" and "close consultation" with national security and law enforcement agencies. It also marks the first instance in which executive branch agencies have recommended that the FCC deny an application due to national security and law enforcement concerns, the statement said. The move comes as Chinese tech firms -- such as Huawei and ZTE -- have faced stiff resistance from US government agencies, which have described them as security threats. - Wider trade battle - ZTE came close to collapse last year after American companies were banned from selling it vital components over its continued dealings with Iran and North Korea. Federal authorities unveiled sweeping charges against Huawei in January for allegedly stealing technology and violating US sanctions on Iran. The company has also been under fire as it faces a global US campaign to blacklist Huawei over espionage fears. Washington has barred the Chinese networking equipment company Huawei from developing the new ultra-fast 5G mobile network in the United States and has blocked US government purchases of its services. Story continues Defense of intellectual property in China and getting fair access to that country's markets have long been points of concern for US tech companies. They are also considered hard-to-fix problems when it come to trade between the US and China. Meanwhile, technology has become increasingly vital to national security and economies. Denial of the China Mobile request came as US President Donald Trump held out hopes of salvaging a trade deal with China, just hours before Beijing's negotiators were due to return to the bargaining table amid a sudden flare-up in hostilities. Since last year, the two sides have exchanged tariffs on more than $360 billion in two-way trade, gutting US agricultural exports to China and weighing on both countries' manufacturing sectors. The International Monetary Fund also repeated its warning on Thursday that the trade battle between the world's top economies was a "threat" to global growth. burs-dg/gc/rl Washington (AFP) - A former intelligence analyst was charged Thursday with leaking secrets about the US military's drone-based targeted assassination program that formed the basis of a powerful 2015 expose by The Intercept. The Justice Department said Daniel Everette Hale illegally provided top secret documents on the program to a reporter who was not named, but could be identified by details in the indictment as The Intercept founding editor Jeremy Scahill. Hale, who was arrested early Thursday in Nashville, Tennessee, was the third person to be charged with leaks to The Intercept, which since its 2014 launch has published numerous scoops baring US national security secrets. He faces up to 50 years in prison on five charges relating to the theft and disclosure of sensitive government information. Hale, 31, was a US Air Force intelligence analyst in Afghanistan assigned to the National Security Agency from 2009 to 2013, when he took part in numerous drone attack operations. After leaving the service, he was a contract political geography analyst at the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA), one of Washington's key intelligence agencies. The indictment says he met with the unidentified reporter at Washington bookstore events in April and June 2013, on dates matching those in which Scahill was promoting his book "Dirty Wars." Over the next year working at the NGA, he allegedly accessed multiple secret documents on the US military drone program and turned them over to Scahill. Those became the basis of The Intercept's October 2015 eight-part series "The Drone Papers," which detailed the extent of the Obama administration's secretive operation to use drones for assassinations in Yemen, Afghanistan and Somalia. The expose contributed to the Obama and then Trump administrations' efforts to crack down on leaks from US intelligence to media, with the Intercept one of the key targets. Last year, NSA contract worker Reality Winner was sentenced to five years and three months in a federal prison for leaking documents to The Intercept in 2017 on Russian efforts to hack into US voting systems the previous year. Story continues Also last year, former FBI agent Terry Albury was sentenced to a four-year prison term for providing documents to the Intercept on how FBI recruits informants and surveils suspects. Asked about Hale's arrest, Betsy Reed, editor-in-chief of the Intercept, said the outlet "does not comment on matters relating to the identity of anonymous sources." Reed added that the Trump administration was "following in the dangerous path of the Obama administration" by "continuing to use the Espionage Act to prosecute whistleblowers who enable journalists to uncover disgraceful, immoral, and unconstitutional acts committed in secret by the US government. "At The Intercept, we stand firmly opposed to all such prosecutions," she said. Washington (AFP) - US and Chinese officials returned to the bargaining table late Thursday amid a sudden flare-up in hostilities, while President Donald Trump held out hopes of salvaging a trade deal. The Chinese delegation, including Vice Premier Liu He, was greeted by US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin. With punishing US tariffs on hundreds of billions in Chinese merchandise due to jump after midnight, Trump told reporters he had received a letter from his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping, and would likely speak to him by telephone later. "It's possible to do it," Trump said of the trade deal at the White House. "I did get last night a very beautiful letter from President Xi." But Trump warned he was also more than happy to use tariffs in resolving his differences with China. "I am different than a lot of people. I happen to think that tariffs, for our country, are very powerful." Months of increasing comity and optimism in trade talks appeared to go up in smoke this week as American officials accused China of a wholesale retreat from previously agreed commitments -- a claim Beijing strongly rejected. "They took many, many parts of that deal and they renegotiated. You can't do that," Trump said Thursday. Since early this year, the trade talks have worked to resolve Washington's grievances of industrial theft, massive state intervention in markets and a yawning trade deficit. China's Commerce Ministry warned Beijing would not "capitulate to any pressure" and threatened retaliation if US tariffs go up to 25 percent as scheduled on Friday -- punctuating the drastic deterioration after months of seemingly collegial talks. "The Chinese side has kept its promises and this has never changed," he added, without specifying what measures Beijing would take but warning that it "has already prepared for all possible situations." Story continues Since last year, the two sides have exchanged tariffs on more than $360 billion in two-way trade, gutting US agricultural exports to China and weighing on both countries' manufacturing sectors. The International Monetary Fund repeated its warning on Thursday that the trade battle between the world's top economies was a "threat" to global growth, and called for a rapid resolution. - 'Fundamental misunderstanding' - Meanwhile, the US Commerce Department reported that the trade deficit with China hit a three-year low in March, with US exports to China rising while imports, such as mobile telephones, fell. The renewed tensions roiled global stock markets this week and unnerved exporters caught off guard. But word of Xi's letter appeared to soothe Wall Street's nerves somewhat on Thursday, with the benchmark Dow Jones Industrial Average recovering some of the day's sell-off but still closing down 0.5 percent. Markets in Europe and Asia also sank again. Derek Scissors, a China expert at the American Enterprise Institute, told AFP the two sides had clashed over how much of the final trade agreement should be enshrined in publicly available document, something Beijing has long resisted. "There was a fundamental misunderstanding," he told AFP by email. "President Trump faces a political battle selling a China deal as being worthwhile. To do so, he needs a public document with clear gains for the US," Scissors said. "But what China is willing to acknowledge in public is less than it is willing to acknowledge in private." He noted that "the two sides failed to realize that they have very different tolerance for transparency." But Scott Kennedy a trade expert at the Center for Strategic and International Studies said China had misjudged the Americans' eagerness to cut a deal at all costs. "They didn't realize when they pulled their concessions off the table that the administration would have the reaction that it did," he told AFP. Kennedy warned that the "possibilities for miscalculation on both sides is pretty high." Chinese producers said the abrupt tariff hike announcement wreaked havoc on operations and would bring high costs, layoffs and further shifts of production to Southeast Asia. "If the tariffs go up to 25 percent, costs will go up. Customers so far have suspended orders. I don't know what will happen," said Emily Wang of Hainan Zhongyi Frozen Food, which exports tilapia. Washington has demanded far-reaching changes to the Chinese economy, such as subjecting state enterprises to market principles, reducing massive subsidies and ending the alleged theft of US technology. Analysts say China will be reluctant to make many of these changes, which could undermine the Communist Party's political power. While US companies complain of lost export markets, disrupted supply chains and higher costs, the US continues to see steady growth and falling unemployment. But each side believes it is better positioned than the other to survive the dispute, Kennedy said. The Chinese "don't see themselves as fragile and they see the US as having grown very quickly as a result of a tax cut that the US can't afford," he said. burs-dg/hs Washington (AFP) - The US Justice Department announced Thursday the indictment of members of "an extremely sophisticated" Chinese hacking group that allegedly stole the personal information of more than 78 million people from health insurer Anthem in 2015. The department said the group was behind a campaign that targeted the computer systems of four distinct US industry groups, slowly and stealthily removing corporate secrets and personal data. "The allegations in the indictment unsealed today outline the activities of a brazen China-based computer hacking group that committed one of the worst data breaches in history," said Assistant Attorney General Brian Benczkowski. The announcement came during heightened tensions between Washington and Beijing over trade and over China's alleged program to steal American corporate secrets in order to quicken China's own technological development. The indictment named one member of the hacking group, Wang Fujie, 32, and said other members were also charged in the indictment, including some whose real identities were not known. The Justice Department did not say that the group had any connections to the government, and did not say how the stolen data were used. It said that besides the Anthem hack, the group was able to enter the systems of three other unnamed businesses, including one in the technology sector, another in basic industrial materials, and one in communications. The hackers used phishing emails to trick company employees into opening a path for them to enter the systems. They would then install malware and other tools on the systems to maintain backdoor access and avoid being discovered so they could explore for valuable data. From health insurer Anthem they reaped the personal identification data on 78.8 million individuals, everything from addresses and identification numbers to their employment and income data. "The defendants sometimes patiently waited months before taking further action, eventually engaging in reconnaissance by searching the network for data of interest," the Justice Department said. Wang and the unnamed defendants were charged with conspiracy to commit fraud, wire fraud, and intentionally damaging protected computers. London (AFP) - The Iran nuclear deal requires that its partners take action to boost the country's economy, but European companies remain fearful of exposing themselves to US sanctions, experts told AFP. Iran's Supreme National Security Council on Wednesday sent a letter to the deal's other signatories, saying it had decided to suspend commitments it made under the deal, some immediately and some after 60 days, if no progress was made on its economy. Leaders of China, France, Germany, Britain and Russia all received a letter, but it is of particular relevance to the European countries who have so far proved unable to deliver the promised economic advantages. The main reason is the reluctance of private companies on the continent to do business in Iran. They fear the "so-called US secondary sanctions," lawyer Anahita Thoms told AFP, referring to US penalties that apply to any non-US organisation that engages in certain parts of the Iranian economy. They also face "practical challenges, such as finding a bank, a transporting company or an insurer," added the German-based expert in sanctions law. The banking issue is particularly sensitive, with major European lenders wary of running into problems with US authorities. In April alone, Italian bank UniCredit and British lender Standard Chartered were each fined more than $1 billion for violating US sanctions against Iran and other countries. - Trade 'impossible' - The situation has become more difficult since last year, when the US ramped up measures against Iran's oil industry and key sectors including shipping and aviation, coupled with a blockage in processing financial transactions. "The Iranian financial system has been subject to secondary sanctions since November 2018, which apply to all banking institutions, not just American ones, even if the transactions are in euros or other currencies," said Olivier Dorgans, a sanctions lawyer at Hughes Hubbard & Reed. Story continues "These secondary sanctions make it impossible for European institutions to trade, even if they have no banking links with the United States," added the French-based lawyer. The so-called Instex's trading system was set up by Paris, Berlin and London at the end of January to facilitate transactions between Iran and the EU in products not covered by the secondary sanctions, matching Iranian oil and gas exports with EU goods. But Instex does not have a banking licence and must therefore rely on banks to channel the funds -- a service European banks are wary of providing. "It seems very unlikely that the EU will be able to do anything concrete at this stage which would give sufficient comfort to encourage more European businesses to engage in Iran," warned Michael Lyons, a London-based lawyer at Clifford Chance. "Particularly now in circumstances where there is a prospect of the deal falling apart altogether and the sanctions environment tightening," he added. French army minister Florence Parly did not rule out the possibility of the EU imposing sanctions against Iran, while in London, foreign minister Jeremy Hunt spoke of "consequences" if Tehran ceased to respect its nuclear commitments. WASHINGTON U.S. authorities have seized one of North Koreas largest cargo ships in connection with a scheme to illicitly export tons of coal in violation of international sanctions, Justice Department officials said Thursday. The 17,061-ton carrier, known as the Wise Honest, also was used to smuggle heavy machinery into the rogue nation to assist its industrial expansion. Though federal authorities said the enormous coal exports have been used to finance North Korea's nuclear proliferation and ballistic missile programs. The civil action taken by the U.S. government involves the first such seizure of a North Korean cargo vessel linked to sanction violations. "This sanctions-busting ship is now out of service," said Assistant Attorney General John Demers, chief of the Justice Department's National Security Division. Want news from USA TODAY on WhatsApp? Click this link on your mobile device to get started The department's action is all but certain to inflame tensions between the U.S. and North Korea and comes as American defense officials were closely monitoring North Korea's launch of short-range missiles for the second time in less than a week. The latest volley of projectiles were fired Thursday from near a military base about 50 miles from North Korea's capital Pyongyang, according to South Korea's military. Missile tests: North Korea launches second projectile in less than a week Photos: Life in North Korea: What you are allowed to see State media in North Korea said that on Saturday the nation held a short-range ballistic missile test as part of a regularly scheduled defensive military exercise. It was the country's first such test in more than a year and came amid what appeared to be stalled denuclearization talks between Pyongyang and Washington. A website devoted to analysis of North Korea, known as 38 North, said that Saturday's test provided "convincing evidence" that Pyongyang is continuing to seek greater military and strategic capabilities despite holding nuclear disarmament talks with President Donald Trump. Story continues Demers and Manhattan U.S. Attorney Geoffrey Berman said the timing of the seizure had no connection to North Korea's recent missile launches. "We have been pursuing this for months," Berman said. He said the government initially filed its seizure warrant under seal last July, though it took the subsequent months to arrange the ship's transfer to U.S. custody. On Thursday, as the court documents were made public, the ship was making its way to American Somoa in the South Pacific. This undated image released by the US Attorney's Office for the Southern District of New York, shows the cargo vessel "Wise Honest." - The US on May 9, 2019, announced the seizure of the North Korean "Wise Honest," saying it had violated international sanctions by exporting coal and importing machinery. The candidates: Who is running for president in 2020? An interactive guide Their ages: 4 decades separate 2020's presidential candidates. Here's what that looks like. Between November 2016 and April 2018, according to court documents, the ship was used by the Korea Songi Shipping Company to export tons of coal to foreign purchasers. Indonesian authorities detained the ship in April 2018 when the captain sought to conceal information about the vessels location, course, speed and other navigational status while in the course of transporting coal to Indonesia from North Korea, the documents state. Following the ships interception, the captain was arrested and later convicted of Indonesian maritime laws. The shipping company allegedly financed equipment purchases and serviced the ship through unwitting U.S. financial institutions. U.S. law prohibits banks from providing such services to North Korean parties. U.S. officials identified payments totaling more than $750,000 that were transmitted through U.S. bank accounts in connection with a March 2018 coal shipment carried by the Wise Honest, according to court records. Built in 1989, the vessel had operated with a crew of two dozen North Koreans and was designed to transport bulk cargo, including coal, ore and cement. The court documents identify separate shipments of more than 26,000 metric tons of anthracite coal in November and December 2016 that were destined for Chinese ports. In a March 2014 coal shipment, the Wise Honest was routed through a safe port in Russia to disguise the cargos port of origin. Like what you're reading?: Download the USA TODAY app for more This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: US seizes North Korea cargo ship linked to exporting tons of coal in violation of international sanctions Its often said that theres a special place in heaven for teachers but most U.S. teachers would settle for an affordable home. The struggle to find affordable housing is an issue that many Americans face, but a new study from housing economist Chris Salviati of Apartment List shows that U.S. teachers are shouldering a much heavier burden than non-teachers. According to the study, the median income for pre-school and kindergarten teachers with Bachelors degrees is $30,000. That rises to $48,000 a year for those with graduate degrees. Teachers of grades 1 to 12 who hold Bachelor's degrees earn a median income of $45,000. Those teaching the same grades with a graduate degree earn $60,000. Munroe Elementary teacher Melissa Curry holds a sign during a rally across from the Colorado State Capitol as Denver public school teachers strike for a second day in Denver, Colorado, U.S., February 12, 2019. REUTERS/Michael Ciaglo Thats 27.4% less than non-teachers who hold Bachelors degrees and the difference gets greater for those with a graduate-level education. Teachers with graduate degrees earn 33.3% less than similarly educated non-teachers. Same education, less pay, less money for rent As a result, teachers are increasingly burdened by their housing costs. Nationally, 19.9% of primary-earner teachers are burdened by their housing costs. This is 21.3% higher than the cost-burden rate for households where the primary earner is a non-teacher with a college degree, the study found. And this gap has widened over time; in 1990, the cost burden rate for teachers was 15% lower than that of college-educated non-teachers. While teaching has long been a relatively low-paying profession, increases in housing costs have made it harder for teachers to get by. While rates of housing cost burden among teachers are lower than the national average, they are higher than that of other Americans with college degrees, and in certain parts of the country particularly the countrys pricey coastal metros teachers are especially strained. Graphic: David Foster/Yahoo Finance Miami has the highest cost burden rate for teachers of the top 25 U.S. metro areas 35% followed by San Francisco, Los Angeles, San Diego, and Washington D.C. Story continues Several of the top metro areas show large gaps between teachers and non-teachers. Certain metros are really kind of off the charts, said Salviati. And it's kind of interesting that cities at the top, with the biggest gaps ... San Francisco, Denver, places that have really strong tech teams and the college educated non-teachers, you know you are in these kind of high-paying industries, but then Phoenix and Tampa also are at the top of the list there; those are places that have had solid economic growth recently, so certainly good opportunities for non-teachers, but those are also areas where teachers are just paid very poorly in comparison to other metros, he said. Graphic: David Foster/Yahoo Finance Working more for less Teachers don't only have high-cost burden rates to contend with, educators must also spend money to keep their jobs in many states a Master's degree is required for a permanent teaching license in 36 U.S. states and Washington, D.C. "In a lot of professions really, having that extra level of education can be helpful, but in a lot of professions you can find a way without having it. Just a Bachelor's degree is sufficient in a lot of cases. Whereas with teachers ... in many places, you do need that graduate degree," Salviati said. While some people try to justify teachers lower pay because they have summers off, the study found that teachers often work extra hours and over summer break. Between 1990 and 2017, the share of teachers who report working more than 50 hours per week increased by 43%, the share who report being at work during the summer increased by 46%, and the share who report working at least 50 weeks per year increased by 17%, the study found. Teachers strikes and results These economic conditions have led teachers in several states across the U.S. to take action in the form of strikes. In 2018-2019 teacher work stoppages have taken place in Arizona, Colorado, California, North Carolina, Oklahoma, and West Virginia, with varying outcomes. The Colorado teachers' strike ended in a 2% pay raise; the Los Angeles strike led to a 6% pay raise. The most significant victory was in Arizona, where striking teachers were awarded a 20% pay increase. Widespread teacher strikes and rising attrition rates point to the difficulty of living comfortably on a teachers salary, said Salviati. If not addressed, this issue may deter young educators away from the teaching profession, with significant negative implications for the quality of the American education system. Reggie Wade is a writer for Yahoo Finance. Follow him on Twitter at @ReggieWade. Follow Yahoo Finance on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, Flipboard,LinkedIn, and reddit. Read more from Reggie: New recycled Adidas sneaker is 'made to be remade' Sneakers are now an emerging alternative asset class: Cowen Nike is trading like Zion Williamsons shoe never exploded In-N-Out Burger is suing Puma Washington (AFP) - He stays out of the limelight but shares President Donald Trump's mistrust of China and the threat it poses to US economic power. In his office across the street from the White House complex, US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer will lead a key round of talks with Chinese negotiators on Thursday and Friday to try to salvage a deal to resolve a year-long dispute between the economic superpowers. In the talks with China, the objectives are clear: to force the Asian giant to put an end to trade policies the US deems "unfair," especially the theft or forced transfer of American technology, and state subsidies for industry. Trump last year tapped the 71-year-old Lighthizer to lead the charge to force Beijing to change its trade policies with perhaps more at stake for the global economy than the effort to revamp the North American Free Trade Agreement. Trump previously entrusted that mission to Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin. Like those officials, Lighthizer is a full member of the president's "cabinet" of ministers, and represents Washington in the World Organization Trade (WTO). Lighthizer is a veteran trade negotiator, having served as deputy USTR under Republican President Ronald Reagan in the 1980s, and dealt with Japan, the trade power at the time. Like Trump, Lighthizer believes free trade cannot be unfettered and must be reciprocal. The new round of talks are critical, since Trump has decided to ratchet up punitive tariffs on $200 billion Chinese goods imported into the United States, more than doubling them to 25 percent as of May 10. "Technology is the most important advantage that Americans have economically," Lighthizer said in a rare television interview in December. "We will protect that technology and get additional market access from China. If that can be done the president wants us to do it. If not we'll have tariffs." Story continues - Promises and action - Lighthizer will not be satisfied with promises. He wants actions. Unlike Trump who revels the spotlight, Lighthizer keeps a low profile. During negotiations with Canada and Mexico his appearances were rare, his speeches parsimonious, his media statements distilled. In testimony before Congress, his responses are measured and he makes it a point of honor not to expose in public what is happening behind the scenes. But he was on the receiving end of a withering public attack from Trump in the Oval office in February -- in the presence of China's Vice Premier Liu He and a bevy of reporters -- when the president sharply corrected him on the terminology used to describe an agreement with Beijing. But the USTR website describes Lighthizer as "a well-known advocate for the type of 'America First' trade policies supported by President Trump." Lighthizer comes from an affluent family in Ashtabula, Ohio an important port on Lake Erie. It was used for coal and ore transport at the end of the 19th century, and the town's decline contributed to his skepticism about globalization and its drawbacks, according to relatives cited by The New York Times. Prior to being named US Trade Representative in May 2017, Lighthizer, a father of two, was a partner in the powerhouse law firm Skadden Arps where he was a specialist in international trade law for more than 30 years. He has an imposing stature, piercing gray-blue eyes and is described as equally "grumpy" in private as in public. "He's very particular. Bombastic at times," said an official close to the US-Canada-Mexico talks. But he is "also charming, with a great sense of humor" and "tremendously respected for his strong intellect." Like many of the Washington elite, Lighthizer attended Georgetown University both as an undergraduate and for law school. By Mayela Armas and Shaylim Valderrama CARACAS (Reuters) - Two Venezuelan lawmakers sought refuge at foreign embassies in Caracas on Thursday, as the government of President Nicolas Maduro cracked down on allies of opposition leader Juan Guaido who supported his attempted uprising last week. The ex-head of the state intelligence service, Manuel Cristopher, the top Maduro government official to defect during the uprising, also spoke out for the first time on Thursday, urging Venezuelans to "build a new state" and combat corruption. The moves came the day after authorities arrested Edgar Zambrano, the opposition-run National Assembly's vice president. Richard Blanco of the Brave Peoples' Alliance party entered Argentina's embassy on Thursday, according to an Argentine foreign ministry source and a Reuters witness, while Americo De Grazia of the Radical Cause party sought refuge at Italy's embassy, according to three sources close to him. Blanco, Zambrano and De Grazia were among 10 lawmakers stripped of congressional immunity by the Supreme Court this week, which said the legislators should be investigated for crimes including conspiracy, treason and rebellion. Marianella Magallanes, another lawmaker, took refuge in the Italian embassy on Wednesday. The opposition do not recognize the Supreme Court's decisions since they say Maduro has stocked it with his own supporters. The U.S. government has threatened to impose sanctions on all of the court's members. Venezuela's information ministry, Argentina's embassy in Caracas and Italy's embassy in Caracas did not respond to requests for comment. "He (Blanco) is there as a guest; we can confirm that," an Argentine foreign ministry official said, on condition of anonymity. Guaido invoked the constitution to assume an interim presidency in January, arguing Maduro's 2018 reelection was illegitimate. About 50 countries, including the United States and much of Latin America, have recognized Guaido as the country's legitimate leader. Maduro's government has so far avoided arresting Guaido, which would likely provoke a strong international backlash. But the recent measures suggest the ruling Socialist Party is seeking to isolate him by pursuing key political allies. "We take it as a given that the regime is going to keep escalating its repression," Guaido said at a news conference, referring to Zambrano's arrest. He also called for Venezuelans to take to the streets on Saturday for fresh protests against Maduro.Cristopher, the ex-intelligence chief, was replaced by Maduro on April 30 and his whereabouts remain unknown. The U.S. government lifted sanctions on Cristopher this week, in a bid to encourage other top officials to withdraw support for Maduro. "Enough with blaming the world for our country's disgraces, and to keep demanding more sacrifices from our people while some leaders make fortunes," Cristopher said in a video posted on Twitter by Venezuelan TV outlet NTN24. TOWED AWAY AND ARRESTED Zambrano was arrested on Wednesday by agents from the SEBIN intelligence service, who used a tow truck to drag away his vehicle with him inside. He tweeted that he was being taken to the SEBIN headquarters in Caracas. Authorities have not confirmed where he was being detained. Soley Zambrano, his daughter, said she last heard from her father around 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday. "Minutes before it happened, he got in touch with me and said, 'My daughter, you know who your father is: a democrat who will not give in to anything," she told reporters outside the SEBIN headquarters on Thursday afternoon. His arrest drew swift condemnation from the United States, which argues Maduro is a dictator who has undermined the rule of law. "We will continue to use the full weight of the U.S. government to hold accountable those who subvert democracy and the Venezuelan constitutional order, and threaten the safety of the duly-elected National Assembly of Venezuela," a senior White House official said on Thursday, on condition of anonymity. The decision to strip legislators of their immunity and to arrest Zambrano was condemned as 'unconstitutional' in a statement on Thursday by the regional Lima Group bloc. Other Guaido allies have already been jailed or fled to the embassies of sympathetic nations. Guaido's chief of staff, Roberto Marrero, was arrested in March and remains in jail. Last week, Leopoldo Lopez - Guaido's political mentor - moved into Spain's diplomatic residence after escaping house arrest to appear alongside Guaido during his call for the military to rise up. The United States has slapped sanctions on state oil company PDVSA and several top figures in Maduro's government in a bid to pressure Maduro to step aside so Guaido can take office and call new elections. But Maduro retains control of the military and state functions. He has branded Guaido a U.S.-backed puppet seeking to oust him in a coup. (Reporting by Mayela Armas and Cassandra Garrison, Additional reporting by Johnny Carvajal and Shaylim Valderrama in Caracas and Roberta Rampton in WashingtonWriting by Luc Cohen Editing by Daniel Flynn, Rosalba O'Brien and Cynthia Osterman) Opposition politicians battling to bring down Venezuelas strongman leader, Nicolas Maduro, have vowed to continue their struggle after the detention of one of their movements key figures signalled the start of a major crackdown. Edgar Zambrano, the vice-president of Venezuelas opposition-controlled parliament, was seized by intelligence agents on Wednesday night, and at least nine other lawmakers members are also facing detention on charges relating to last weeks failed uprising. Related: Venezuela: loyalists defiant but doubts linger after failed revolt The politicians all supporters of Juan Guaido, the opposition leader spearheading the push to topple Maduro are alleged to have committed a litany of offences including treason, conspiracy, instigating insurrection and civil rebellion. Juan Andres Mejia, one of the targeted deputies, told the Guardian the group would not be cowed by Maduros absolutely illegal and unconstitutional counterattack. This is not going to work You are not going to solve Venezuelas problems by persecuting and imprisoning people. There are just too many of us who want change, said Mejia, a close Guaido ally and member of his party, Voluntad Popular (Popular Will). A dictatorship is trying to advance and our responsibility is to try to stop that from happening, added Mejia, 32. Richard Blanco, another of the 10 targeted lawmakers, said: They are doing this because they are afraid. He [Maduro] knows he is on his way out. Blanco, 54, said he had sought shelter in the residence of the Argentinian ambassador in Caracas. I decided to come here because my life was in danger. A third lawmaker, Marianela Magallanes, has reportedly taken shelter in the residence of the Italian ambassador to avoid arrest. The detention of Zambrano who was among those who joined Guaidos fruitless attempt to spark a pre-dawn uprising against Maduro on 30 April sparked a wave of domestic and international condemnation. Story continues Maduros arrest of Zambrano breaches parliamentary immunity and is a clear violation of the constitution, tweeted the British foreign secretary, Jeremy Hunt. Feels like the act of a desperate man on borrowed time. The US state department slammed Zambranos illegal and inexcusable detention and warned of consequences if he was not freed. Guaido accused Maduros regime of kidnapping Zambrano, 63, who was taken to El Helicoide, a notorious political prison in Venezuelas capital, Caracas. The spectacular building, conceived in the 1950s as a glamorous shopping centre symbolising the wealth and swagger of South Americas oil-rich answer to Saudi Arabia, now houses the headquarters of Venezuelas spy agency, the National Bolivarian Intelligence Service (Sebin). That feared and shadowy organisation appears to have been poised to turn on Maduro last week, with Sebins director, Manuel Cristopher Figuera, defecting in order to back Guaido. El Helicoide (the helix) serves as the headquarters of Venezuelas National Bolivarian Intelligence Service. El Helicoide serves as the headquarters of Venezuelas National Bolivarian Intelligence Service.Photograph: by Cristobal Alvarado Minic/Getty Images However, for reasons that remain murky, no other major military figures joined Guaidos movement despite reports that weeks of secret talks had produced an agreement that they would do so. On Tuesday in a clear sign that Washington thinks there may still be life in efforts to unseat Maduro the US announced it had lifted sanctions on Figuera in recognition of his recent actions in support of democracy and the rule of law. The US treasury department indicated the move was designed to influence Venezuelan officials who take concrete and meaningful actions to restore democratic order. In a televised address on Wednesday night, Maduro claimed victory over the 30 April plotters and promised to dedicate himself to rescuing Venezuelas collapsed economy. It is time for a great historic rectification of the Bolivarian revolution. Its time for a great change in the country, Maduro said. Nicolas Maduro visits a farm in Aragua state in a photo released on Wednesday. Nicolas Maduro visits a farm in Aragua state in a photo released on Wednesday.Photograph: HO/AFP/Getty Images But other top Chavistas are more cautious and warn there may be further attempts to topple their embattled leader in the days ahead a view shared by many political observers in Caracas. There could be a repeat today, in two hours, in a week, in a fortnight, Freddy Bernal, a senior Socialist party figure, told state television on Tuesday. Mejia also rejected Maduros claim to victory, while admitting the failed uprising had also not been a triumph for Venezuelas opposition. He is eventually going to leave power. He has to know that at this point. He can only choose how he wants to end this and up to now he is choosing the worst possible way, Mejia said. I think there is still hope for Venezuela. I think we are on the right path. I think things are going to change. I think we are going to have a better Venezuela soon, Mejia added. But if we want this to happen with the least humanitarian cost then we have to act soon and we have to act together. Additional reporting by Patricia Torres Police are hunting a violent mugger who threw an elderly woman to the ground with such force it shattered her arm. According to the Metropolitan Police, an 87-year-old woman was callously shoved to the ground from behind in broad daylight as she went to visit family. The octogenarian from Streatham, south west London, was left with her entire right arm covered in one giant bruise and a bad break, while also requiring stitches. Detectives have released CCTV of the suspect wanted in connection to the frightening incident, which took place on March 16 at at around out 11.30am. The elderly woman was left with her entire right arm covered in one giant bruise and a bad break (MET POLICE) Scotland Yard says the mugger was slim, dressed in black trousers and wore a black jacket with the hood up. Following the attack, the woman is now too scared to sleep at night or leave her home. The force says the usually 'active and independent' victim had met up with a friend in Streatham, to walk her home. The opportunistic thug pounced just after the victim, who had her handbag strapped around her forearm, left a friend's house. Read more on Yahoo News: Outrage as young boys holding catapults seen posing with dead ducks on social media Boy seen shaking and kicking cat in upsetting attack is hunted by RSPCA Donald Trump finds call to shoot immigrants at the border funny After she was brutally assaulted and thrown to the ground, she saw a male running away. Her handbag was later recovered by police in a nearby street - but a number of transactions were made using her stolen cards at shops in Streatham. Detective Constable Caroline Benjamin, of the Robbery Investigation Team at Walworth police station, said: 'This was a horrible and cynical attack on a vulnerable and defenceless woman. 'The victim is now too scared to walk around on her own and was left unable to sleep in her bed due to the pain of her injuries. (MET POLICE) 'She prides herself on being a person who looks after other people, but she now has to rely on others to bring her meals and help her with her affairs. Story continues 'No one should ever be left feeling frightened to walk out in their own community. I am sure bringing the person responsible to justice will help allay her trauma. 'This deplorable thug needs to be brought to justice as soon as possible and I am appealing to the public to help. 'I would ask anyone who recognises the suspect, saw the events leading up to the robbery, or saw the suspect later in the shops, to call police immediately.' Anyone with any information is asked to call police on 101 or contact via Twitter @MetCC. Quote CAD 3130/16MAR or through anonymously Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online at crimestoppers-uk.org. Troy Benjamin (L) and John Wall were handed prison sentence at Harrow Crown Court on Wednesday (MET POLICE) A pair of violent burglars who targeted pensioners in their homes in Brent, London have been jailed for a total of 25 years. Troy Benjamin and John Wall were both arrested on 9 October, 2018 following an investigation into a high number of burglaries targeting elderly victims. Officers from the Mets North West CID carried out a complex investigation involving in-depth telephone analysis, leading to the pairs arrest Benjamin, 39, of Mowbray Road, Brent was found guilty of six separate distraction burglaries and one count of GBH following a trial at Harrow Crown Court. Troy Benjamin (MET POLICE) On Wednesday, Benjamin was handed a 19 year jail sentence. Accomplice Wall, 44, of Halliwick Road, Haringey pleaded guilty to the same six burglaries and dangerous driving offences. Wall was jailed for 6 years 10 months and disqualified from driving for 70 months. The court heard the first burglary was reported on September 20 2018 on Howard Road, Brent. Read more on Yahoo News UK Pope Francis issues new law requiring all Catholic priests & nuns to report clergy sexual abuse & cover-ups Vicious mugger who violently threw pensioner to the ground hunted by police US state could make abortion "equivalent" to murder Benjamin and Wall approached the house, telling the elderly male victim there had been a leak next door and asking to check there was no flooding in his property. While one of the suspects pretended to check the kitchen taps, the second suspect searched upstairs, taking a quantity of cash before both left the scene. During another offence, on September 26 2018, an elderly woman went to put out her bins on St Albans Road, Brent. John Wall (MET POLICE) As she did so, she was approached by Benjamin and Wall who said they were there to check her boiler. One of the men then went with the victim to the kitchen and took the cover off the boiler while the second went into the living room and bedroom and stole cash. Then, on On October 5 2018, police were called after an elderly woman was woken at her home in Oaklands Road, Brent by the sight of Benjamin and Wall in her bedroom, searching through the wardrobe. Story continues She told them that she had no money and after shouting for help, a neighbour came to her aid and confronted Benjamin, attempting to detain him. Harrow Crown Court (PA) He then stabbed the mans left arm with an unknown object, leaving him with life changing injuries, before fleeing the scene. Detective Constable Parminder Ahluwalia said: This was a despicable series of burglaries with both men cowardly targeting elderly residents before tricking their way into properties to steal items, as well as using violence against a neighbour who tried to help his friend. We are pleased that the sentences they have been given reflect their callous actions and we hope the victims can now begin to leave this bad episode in their lives behind them knowing these two men are locked up in prison for the foreseeable future. Michael Cohen asked a New York state court judge to order the Trump Organization to turn over documents that he says will show the company promised to pay his legal costs related to Congressional investigations, Special Counsel Robert Muellers probe and his own prosecution in Manhattan. Cohen, Donald Trumps former personal lawyer, began serving a three-year prison sentence on May 6 after he pleaded guilty to lying to Congress, violating campaign finance laws and bank fraud. He sued the Trump Organization in March for almost $4 million, saying it stopped paying his legal costs when he began cooperating with prosecutors. The company asked a judge last month to throw out the lawsuit, claiming Cohen is just hoping to score a payday. On Wednesday, Cohen asked the judge to deny that request and allow him to get documents, such as internal memos and communications, that would support his claim. Mr. Cohen has alleged that he incurred unconscionable injury in the form of both significant monetary harm as well as irreversible prejudice to his legal interests and reputation as a result of the organizations failure to indemnify him and reimburse his legal expenses, Cohens lawyers said. Trump Organization spokeswoman Amanda Miller didnt immediately respond to a request for comment. Cohens fight over the legal fees reflects a broader war hes waged against the president over his belief that he took the fall for an illegal hush-money scheme involving women who claimed to have had sex with Trump. Over the past year, Cohen has come to see the man he once affectionately called boss as a racist, cheating con man who has spent much of his career defrauding financial institutions and governments. Trump and his allies have dismissed Cohens allegations as the words of a lying felon now serving time behind bars as a result of his own misdeeds. For Cohen, the disputed fees also represent a financial lifeline that would boost his familys ability to maintain the luxury lifestyle theyve grown accustomed to. Cohen and his wife have seen much of their net worth evaporate as their primary source of wealth taxi medallions has sharply deteriorated with the rise of ride-sharing companies such as Uber and Lyft. The Cohens recently were forced to put up their Park Avenue home as collateral for their distressed taxi medallion loans. The case is Cohen v. Trump Organization LLC, 651377/2019, New York State Supreme Court, New York County (Manhattan). Nothing new can come from a situation without suffering. If any new understanding about the nature of platform companies is to materialize in 2019, it will be because of the extreme over-valuation of Uber, on full display this week. Uber's valuation at IPO this Friday, based on its tentative offering price, will be $84 billion. The company is seeking to raise as much as $9 billion, and is expected to be the years biggest U.S. IPO. Only two other U.S. IPOs have ever been more valuable: Alibaba in 2014, at a value of $167 billion, and Facebook in 2012, at a value of $104 billion. The biggest winners this time will include Jeff Bezos, whose $3 million personal investment in Uber, is likely to be worth $400 million. Other well-known investors include Benchmark, whose $30 million stake is set to make around $7.9 billion, and Menlo Ventures, whose $67 million investment is expected to become about $3 billion. But the question for the public is, should we join in? What can academic research tell us? In explaining the dynamics of a platform economy, as opposed to those of a traditional economy, economists and business researchers routinely use the network effect as a way of describing the value of a platform. This value largely depends on the number of users on either side of the exchange. The more riders a ride-sharing platform has, for instance, the more attractive it becomes to drivers, leading even more people to use it. And once a platform reaches a certain size, the thinking goes, it becomes too dominant to unseat. In other words, a platform economy has no room for multiple players; the market equilibrium will forever move toward a monopoly. So Google dominates search engines, Facebook rules social networks, Twitter towers over microblogging, and Netflix, YouTube, and Spotify have cornered the movie-streaming, video-sharing, and music-streaming markets, respectively. If we follow this logic, however, there should be either Uber or Lyft, but not both. And weve seen that coming with Ubers moves in international markets. It sold its China operation to Didi Chuxing in 2016, not because of political pressure from Beijing, but because of fierce competition from local players. A year later, in 2017, Uber sold its operation in Russia to Yandex. This was followed by yet another exit in March 2018, when Uber bowed to Grab by selling off its Southeast Asian operation in Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam. Its easier for Uber to achieve scale than to sustain it. Story continues This explains, in part, why although Uber is operating in more than 700 cities around the world, 24 percent of the total bookings occur in just five of thoseNew York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, London, and Sao Paulo. Outside those core cities, Uber faces fierce local competition. Latecomers in these local markets emulate what Uber does and outdo it. Uber still had a monthly average of 91 million active users at the end of 2018, but growth had slowed from 51 percent a year earlier to 33.8 percent. Investors often invest in money-losing businesses because they believe tech companies that begin with modest goals and creative business plans will soon follow the growth script of Amazon in realizing their own routes to infinity and beyond. To knit together precisely that precious narrative for an IPO, CEO Khosrowshahi positioned Uber as the hub for disparate categories of transport. It included Uber Eats, a food-delivery service; Uber Freight, a trucking business; and Jump, a shared scooter and bike operation. Khosrowshahi equated Uber to Amazon. But Uber has never been about building infrastructure. Amazon built not only a website and an app, but warehouses, logistic networks and I.T. systems. Uber never did. It uses two cloud computing providers: AWS and Google Cloud. Uber didnt even develop its own maps; it spent tens of million to use Google Maps. The paradox is this: Lots of businesses require heavy investment. Cellular phone operators and cable TV companies all have to spend billions to build their physical networks. But that investment is finite, whereas Uber is spending cash not on building physical assets, but on buying market share, pushing driver incentives and rider discounts, and advertisements. These are infinite expenditures, limited only by a companys ability to raise money from venture capital firms and IPO. Thats how Amazon lost $2.8 billion over its first 17 quarters as a public company, while Uber lost over $4 billion in 2017 alone. One bright spot that Uber seeks to highlight in its IPO filing is on platform synergies, where each new product adds nodes to [its] network and strengthens these shared capabilities, which in turn will fuel multiple virtuous cycles of growth. It claims that Uber Eats is used by many of the same consumers who use our Ridesharing products, [and] is built on our existing technology stack. And so in the future, Uber can can more efficiently launch other products and offerings, such as dockless e-bikes and e-scooters, by leveraging our existing network of Drivers and consumers and regional on-the-ground operations teams. Such strong cycles of growth wont be possible without an integrated data strategy. Any data scientists would agree that data sets become geometrically more valuable when you combine them. Combined data sets often reveal insights and business opportunities that could not have been imagined previously. When Google introduced Gmail, it built a data set that was largely able to duplicate a users identity. Combining the two data sets prompted a huge increase in value, as future AdWords ads would have more worth for the advertiser and, by extension, for Google. The same thing happened again with Google Maps, which enabled Google to tie identity and purchase intent to location. Each time Google introduces a new service, it finds new use cases for user data by combining data sets. This is also the allure of Uber; the company can recombine data stemming from its core business and then invade an adjacent business line for growth. Still, this business logic could come undone. Last year, Europe introduced its General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in an effort to thwart consumers being treated as commodities. Consumers must give their consent before a company such as Uber can start to collect personal data, and the company must explain why data is collected and how it is used. The company is not allowed to use that data for different purposes later on. There has been talk, and even a legal action started in Germany, aimed at prohibiting Facebook from integrating Messenger, Instagram and WhatsApp as it seeks to combine user data from different sources. Another German initiative proposes that dominant platforms must share bulk, anonymized data with competitors, meaning all transport firms would have access to Ubers information about traffic patterns. Europe would obviously have limited influence on Ubers global strategy. But Europe remains the most profitable market outside of the U.S., a market that no tech firm can completely ignore or defy. London is currently one of the top five cities that produces the most bookings for Uber, and the U.K. is the GDPR regardless of whether Brexit proceeds. Perhaps most problematic for Uber is that many countries around the world are emulating Europes position on data protection and consumer privacy. Thus, the investment thesis inspired by the platform economy of the pastwinners take all; competition is for loserscannot hold. There might not be a tech bubble that bursts as badly as in the 90s, but the growth prospects of Uber and its competitors will diminish. Joy Worrall was found dead in a quarry near her home in November last year (North Wales Police) An 82-year-old woman committed suicide because an "administrative error led to her pension being frozen, an inquest heard. Joy Worrall was found dead in a quarry near her home in Rhes-y-Cae, Flintshire, last November and her family discovered she had spent all her savings. Further inquiries showed that Mrs Worralls pension has been stopped by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), her son Ben Worrall said. It is claimed Mrs Worrall killed herself over an admin area by the Department for Work and Pensions (Geograph) Mr Worrall told the inquest into his mothers death at Ruthin court that Mrs Worrall had previously stated if she was ever in ill health or in financial difficulty she would "throw herself off the quarry. Mr Worrall added: My mother felt she couldn't discuss her finances with anyone. Details at the inquest showed that Mrs Worrall, who received a state pension as well as a pension credit top-up, received an inheritance in 2014 and was told by the DWP that this sum would not affect her pension. Read more from Yahoo News UK: North Korea fires short-range missile, says South Korea The Tories who have publicly said they would run for leader US state could make abortion "equivalent" to murder But "action was taken to suspend her pension credit was taken in 2017 which led to her state pension being stopped due to an administrative error - when it should have still been paid while credits were reviewed. There was no record of any correspondence from Mrs Worrall to the DWP about the matter, the inquest heard. Mrs Worralls cause of death was given as multiple major traumatic injuries due to a fall from height and coroner John Gittins recorded a conclusion of suicide, saying it was "indeed a deliberate act. Coroner John Gittins recorded a conclusion of suicide at Ruthin court (Google) Mr Gittins told Mr Worrall he may have struggled to determine if his mother had decided to take her own life had it not been for the information he supplied about the DWP. Following the hearing, Mr Worrall said: "I feel as though there was a duty of care that was not fully carried out as it should've been, causing her to be in a situation where the only course of action was to end her life, which is a disgrace really. Mr Worrall said he had now taken up the case with his MP, David Hanson. (Adds U.S. secretary of state, Iran ambassador to U.N., U.S. naval commander comments, paragraphs 10-20) * Iran says Europeans should honor commitments on trade ties * Europeans disagree with U.S. decision to quit 2015 nuclear pact * France's Macron says pact is good base for more progress * Trump open to Iran talks, sees unspecified military threats * Iran threatens to enrich uranium beyond limit in 60 days * GRAPHIC: Iran's nuclear program https://tmsnrt.rs/2WqRqfI BERLIN, May 9 (Reuters) - European countries said on Thursday they wanted to preserve Iran's nuclear deal and rejected "ultimatums" from Tehran, after Iran relaxed restrictions on its nuclear program and threatened moves that might breach the 2015 international pact. Iran's announcement on Wednesday, related to curbs on its stockpiling of nuclear materials, was in response to U.S. sanctions imposed following President Donald Trump's withdrawal of the United States from the accord with Tehran a year ago. Iran's initial moves do not appear to violate the accord yet. But President Hassan Rouhani said that unless the world powers which signed the deal protect Iran's economy from U.S. sanctions within 60 days, Iran would start enriching uranium beyond limits set in the agreement. "We reject any ultimatums and we will assess Iran's compliance on the basis of Iran's performance regarding its nuclear-related commitments ...," read a statement issued jointly by the European Union and the foreign ministers of Britain, France and Germany, co-signatories of the deal. "We are determined to continue pursuing efforts to enable the continuation of legitimate trade with Iran," they said, adding that this included getting a special purpose vehicle aimed at enabling non-dollar business with Iran off the ground. In response, Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said in a Twitter post that EU countries should uphold their obligations in the nuclear deal with Iran and normalize economic ties despite U.S. sanctions, "instead of demanding that Iran unilaterally abide by a multilateral accord." Story continues The nuclear deal required Iran to curb its uranium enrichment capacity to head off any pathway to developing a nuclear bomb, in return for the removal of most international sanctions. A series of more intrusive U.N. inspections under the deal have verified that Iran is meeting its commitments. Iran has always denied that it was seeking a nuclear weapon and says it wants to abide by the nuclear deal. The Trump administration argues that the nuclear deal was flawed because it is not permanent, does not address Iran's missile program and does not punish Iran for what Washington considers meddling in regional countries. U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo alluded to that in a statement on Thursday. "To date the regimes default option has been violence, and we appeal to those in Tehran who see a path to a prosperous future through de-escalation to modify the regime's behavior," Pompeo said. "Our restraint to this point should not be mistaken by Iran for a lack of resolve," Pompeo said. TRUMP RENEWS TALKS APPEAL Trump, who has previously expressed a willingness to meet Iranian leaders to no avail, on Thursday renewed that appeal in an impromptu news conference at the White House. "They should call. If they do, we're open to talk to them," Trump said. He also said he could not rule out a military confrontation given the heightened tensions. Trump declined to say what prompted him to deploy the USS Abraham Lincoln carrier group to the region over what was described as unspecified threats. In an MSNBC interview, the Iranian ambassador to the United Nations Majid Takht Ravanchi said: "All of a sudden he decided to leave the negotiating table ... What is the guarantee that he will not renege again?" He dismissed U.S. allegations of an Iranian threat as "fake intelligence" comparing it to the run-up to the U.S. invasion of Iraq in 2003. The commander overseeing U.S. naval forces in the Middle East told Reuters on Thursday that American intelligence showing a threat from Iran will not prevent him from sending an aircraft carrier through the vital Strait of Hormuz, if needed. "I am not in a war-plan footing and have not been tasked to do so," U.S. Vice Admiral Jim Malloy, commander of the U.S. Navy's Bahrain-based Fifth Fleet, said in a phone interview. "However we are absolutely ready to respond to any aggression against the United States, partners in the region, or our interests." The Trump administration has ratcheted up sanctions this month, effectively ordering all countries to halt all purchases of Iranian oil or face their own sanctions. The move creates a dilemma for Washington's European allies which say they share its concerns about Iranian behavior but think the Trump administration's tactics are likely to backfire. The European allies believe Trump's campaign to isolate the Islamic Republic plays into the hands of Tehran hardliners and undermines pragmatists within the Iranian leadership who want to open the country up to the world. French President Emmanuel Macron on Thursday called for the nuclear deal to be extended to cover other issues of concern to the West, such as Iran's regional policies and ballistic missiles, rather than jettisoned. "Leaving the 2015 nuclear agreement is a mistake because it is undoing what we have already done. That's why France is remaining and will remain a part of it and I deeply hope that Iran will remain," Macron said. German Chancellor Angela Merkel said the EU wants to avoid an escalation in the dispute and Tehran must recognize that it is in its own interests to remain committed to the deal. European countries have tried to develop a system to allow outside investors to do business with Iran while avoiding falling foul of U.S. sanctions. But in practice this has failed so far, with all major European firms that had announced plans to invest in Iran saying they would no longer do so. A spokesman for Iran's Atomic Energy Organisation said on Thursday Tehran's goal was to bring the agreement "back on track." But Tehran has also maintained that it will leave the deal, known as the JCPOA, unless it receives more economic support as envisaged by the 2015 pact. "We have not left the JCPOA so far, but we have put such a move on our agenda and that would happen step by step," Deputy Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi was quoted as saying by state-run PressTV on Wednesday night. Supporters of the nuclear deal, including Trump's predecessor Barack Obama and European allies, say the pact extends the time it would take Iran to make a nuclear weapon if it decided to do so, and guarantees that it would be caught. Lifting sanctions, they argue, would show ordinary Iranians the benefits of cooperating with the world and make it more difficult for hardliners to roll back reforms. (Reporting by Madeline Chambers, Andreas Rinke, Bozorgmehr Sharafedin, Steve Holland and Phil Stewart; Writing by Peter Graff and Grant McCool; Editing by Mark Heinrich and James Dalgleish) (Adds Pentagon statement) * Trump says "nobody is happy" but "relationship continues" * South Korea calls launches worrisome and unhelpful * U.S. says it seized one of North Korea's biggest cargo ships * U.S. condemns North Korea over human rights By Josh Smith and David Brunnstrom SEOUL/WASHINGTON, May 9 (Reuters) - North Korea fired what appeared to be two short-range missiles on Thursday in its second such test in less than a week, and the United States said it had seized a North Korean cargo ship as tensions again mounted between the two countries. U.S. President Donald Trump said that "nobody is happy" at the launches, but appeared to hold the door open for more talks with North Korea. South Korea said the tests were worrisome and unhelpful and likely a protest against Trump refusing to ease economic sanctions at a failed summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un in February. Washington has given no sign of willingness to budge on sanctions and the U.S. Justice Department announced on Thursday the seizure of a North Korean cargo vessel it said was involved in the illicit shipping of coal. North Korea has effectively pulled back from engagement with Washington since the February meeting between Kim and Trump in Hanoi collapsed without agreement on U.S. demands for the dismantling of Pyongyang's nuclear program and Kim's demands for relief from punishing sanctions. "The relationship continues. ... I know they want to negotiate, they're talking about negotiating. But I don't think they're ready to negotiate," Trump told reporters. Acting U.S. Defense Secretary Patrick Shanahan said Washington would continue to focus on diplomatic efforts with North Korea. "We're going to stick to our diplomacy and as you all know, we haven't changed our operations or our posture and we'll continue to generate the readiness we need in case diplomacy fails," he told reporters. Story continues Trump has held up a freeze in missile testing since 2017 as a sign of progress in his talks with North Korea after exchanges of fiery rhetoric two years ago raised fears of war. North Korea formally announced a freeze in intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) and nuclear bomb tests in April last year and Trump stressed that the missiles fired were not of a kind that could threaten the United States. "We're looking at it very seriously right now. They were smaller missiles, they were short-range missiles," he said. "Nobody's happy about it but we're taking a good look and we'll see." The Pentagon said the launches consisted of multiple ballistic missiles that flew in excess of 300 km (185 miles) and landed in the ocean. North Korea's official KCNA news agency reported that Kim oversaw the army "strike drill," and said he noted that "genuine peace and security of the country are guaranteed only by the strong physical force capable of defending its sovereignty." White House Chief of Staff Mick Mulvaney played down the tests, telling CBS News the "supposed provocation" was "very minor." "These missiles, whatever they were, whatever you want to call them, they were very small. And not aimed at Japan, not aimed at Guam, they were aimed up the North Korean coast. So it was a very non-provocative provocation, if there is such a thing." He said the relationship between Kim and Trump remained good and he was confident there would be more talks with North Korea. "We want additional talks," he said. Asked if the U.S. side wanted another summit, he said: "Eventually? Yeah, I think we do," while adding that at the last summit, the North Koreans "were not really willing to negotiate.' "They gave us an offer - you know, a take-it-or-leave-it offer - five different times. And we couldn't take it, so we had to leave." U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urged all parties to continue talks toward denuclearization, warning that Pyongyang's latest action "serves only to increase tensions." On Saturday, Kim oversaw the test-firing of multiple rockets and a missile. That was North Korea's first test of a ballistic missile since an ICBM launch in November 2017 that it said was capable of delivering a warhead anywhere in the United States. South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff said the two missiles fired on Thursday flew east from the northwestern area of Kusong and covered 420 km (260 miles) and 270 km (168 miles) and reached an altitude of about 50 km (30 miles) before falling into the sea. South Korean President Moon Jae-in, who has strongly advocated engagement with North Korea, said that even if the missiles were short-range, they could still violate U.N. resolutions barring North Korea from developing ballistic missiles. "North Korea seemed to be discontented it could not reach a deal in Hanoi," he told South Korean broadcaster KBS, while adding that he saw the tests as a sign that North Korea wanted to negotiate. He said he planned to push for a fourth inter-Korean summit with Kim. U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo met on Thursday with Japan's chief Cabinet secretary, Yoshihide Suga, who was expected to raise Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's hopes for a summit with Kim. Trump and Pompeo have brushed aside Kim's demand for Washington to show more flexibility in talks by the end of the year. 'ESCALATION TACTICS' Analysts said it was too soon to say exactly what kind of missiles were involved in the latest launches, but the range would probably exceed that of most of the rockets North Korea fired on Saturday from its east coast into the ocean. "North Korea has returned to its classic escalation tactics from before," said Yang Uk, a senior research fellow at the Korea Defence and Security Forum. "I believe they will keep escalating by using what appear to be short-range missiles, something that will not cause the U.S. to react right away." Harry Kazianis, of Washington's Center for the National Interest think tank, said the launches could only worsen tensions. "While this ... does not violate Pyongyangs promise to halt longer-range tests, North Korea has now made it clear it will not halt developing other parts of its military capabilities that threaten the region," he said. "Kims goal, beyond ensuring his weapons programs are becoming more powerful, is quite clear: to show America and its allies that if they arent willing to compromise on the terms of denuclearization, that Pyongyang will indeed go its own way, with missile launches once again becoming the new norm." The latest tests coincided with a visit to the South Korean capital by U.S. special envoy for North Korea Stephen Biegun. North Korea lashed out at the United States and South Korea this week, saying last weekend's launches were "regular and self-defensive." It criticized Seoul and Washington for carrying out military drills. North Korea has repeatedly denounced U.S.-led sanctions aimed at pressing it to give up its nuclear weapons and the mood will not have been lightened by the ship seizure announced on Thursday, the first by the United States of a North Korean cargo vessel for violating sanctions. The Justice Department said the 17,061-ton "Wise Honest," one of North Korea's largest cargo ships, was first detained by Indonesia in April 2018. It said it was now in the possession of the United States and was currently approaching U.S. territorial waters around American Samoa. At the U.N. Human Rights Council in Geneva on Thursday, the United States called on North Korea to dismantle camps it said held tens of thousands of political prisoners. North Korea denied it held political prisoners and said U.S. sanctions were hampering North Koreans' enjoyment of life. "Such anachronistic acts are very dangerous," its ambassador to the council, Han Tae Song, said. (Reporting by Josh Smith, Hyonhee Shin and Joyce Lee in Seoul; Elaine Lies in Tokyo; David Brunnstrom, Steve Holland, Idrees Ali, Sarah N. Lynch and Makini Brice in Washington; Michelle Nichols at the United Nations and Stephanie Nebehay in Geneva; Editing by Alistair Bell, James Dalgleish and Peter Cooney) (Recasts with conclusion of first day of talks) * U.S., China hold talks to salvage trade deal * Trump starts "paperwork" to levy remaining Chinese imports * U.S. to hike tariffs overnight, China says ready to retaliate By Jeff Mason and David Lawder WASHINGTON May 9 (Reuters) - Top U.S. and Chinese trade negotiators concluded the first of two days of talks on Thursday to rescue a trade deal that is close to collapsing as Washington prepares to go ahead with plans to hike tariffs on hundreds of billions of dollars of goods imported from China. Tension between Washington and Beijing has risen after a major setback in negotiations last week when China revised a draft deal and weakened commitments to meet U.S. demands for trade reform. President Donald Trump responded by ordering a tariff hike, and China has said it would retaliate. The 10-month-old trade war has already cost companies in both countries billions of dollars. Chinese Vice Premier Liu He, U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer and U.S. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin talked for 90 minutes on Thursday and were expected to resume talks on Friday. Officials did not speak to reporters as they left the talks. Before they get back around the table on Friday, the United States will have increased duties on $200 billion of Chinese goods, to 25 percent from 10 percent. The duties apply to cargoes leaving China after 12:01 a.m. EDT (0401 GMT) Friday. Consumer products, including cell phones, computers, clothing and toys, are to be especially hard hit. Trump on Thursday took aim at the $325 billion in Chinese goods that are so far untouched by the trade war, saying he was "starting ... paperwork today" to tax those with a punitive tariff of 25 percent. Trump, who has adopted protectionist policies as part of his "America First" agenda aimed at rebalancing global trade and boosting U.S. manufacturing, accused Beijing of reneging on commitments made during months of negotiations. Story continues "We were getting very close to a deal, then they started to renegotiate the deal. We can't have that. We can't have that," Trump said at an event at the White House. Trump said if the two sides cannot make a deal, the United States would go back to manufacturing products that China now makes. "It'll be the old-fashioned way, the way we used to do it: We made our own product." U.S. stock indexes closed lower on Thursday ahead of the trade talks, though they pared losses after Trump said he had received a "beautiful" letter from Chinese President Xi Jinping. U.S. oil prices slid and U.S. Treasury yields fell as investors sought safe-haven assets. Data released Thursday showed the U.S. goods trade deficit with China shrank to its smallest level in five years in March, which could further embolden Trump as he escalates the trade war with Beijing. TENSE TALKS China appealed to the United States to help salvage the deal earlier on Thursday. Commerce Ministry spokesman Gao Feng said the decision to send Liu to Washington despite the tariff hike threat demonstrated China's "utmost sincerity." "The U.S. side has given many labels recently, 'backtracking,' 'betraying,' etc. ... China sets great store on trustworthiness and keeps its promises, and this has never changed," he told a news briefing in Beijing. A source familiar with the talks said China's changes to the language of the draft trade deal were so extensive it could take a month to fix them, assuming the United States rejects them. The talks could still go several ways, a person close to the discussions said. China could make some concessions to prolong talks even after tariffs and retaliation. The two sides could end negotiations, given they are so far apart. Or China could reverse the changes to the text and return the negotiations to where they were a week ago and work toward a deal to be signed at the G20 summit in Japan in June, the source said. WIDE RIFT Reuters on Wednesday revealed the extent of the rift that has opened between the two countries, reporting that a draft trade agreement text sent by Beijing on Friday night was riddled with changes that marked reversals in Chinese commitments that undermined core U.S. demands. In seven chapters of the draft, China deleted commitments to change laws to resolve complaints that caused the United States to launch a trade war: theft of U.S. intellectual property and trade secrets; forced technology transfers; competition policy; access to financial services; and currency manipulation, sources told Reuters. The stripping of binding legal language from the draft struck directly at Lighthizer's highest priority. The U.S. trade representative views changes to China's laws as essential to verifying compliance after years of what U.S. officials have called empty reform promises. Trump told supporters at a rally in Florida on Wednesday that China "broke the deal," and vowed not to back down on imposing new tariffs on Chinese imports unless Beijing "stops cheating our workers." (Additional reporting by David Lawder, Doina Chiacu, Humeyra Pamuk and Alex Alper in Washington, and Se Young in Beijing; Writing by David Lawder Editing by Paul Simao, Simon Webb and Leslie Adler) By Aziz El Yaakoubi DUBAI (Reuters) - The Yemeni government has accused the United Arab Emirates of landing around 100 separatist troops on a remote island in the Arabian Sea this week, a claim the UAE denied, deepening a rift between nominal allies in Yemen's war. The UAE is one of the Arab countries fighting formally on behalf of Yemen's internationally recognised government against the Iran-aligned Houthi movement that controls the capital. But the UAE has had a tense relationship with the government and has recruited thousands of fighters from a movement of southern separatists who have clashed with government troops. Yemeni officials said around 100 separatist fighters had disembarked in civilian clothes on Monday from a UAE naval vessel on Socotra, the main island in a sparsely populated Yemeni archipelago in the Arabian Sea. The island, part of Yemen but closer to the African coast than the Yemeni mainland, is a UNESCO world natural heritage site protected by the U.N. body for its unique flora and fauna. It was not the first time the government of President Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi, which is based in the southern port of Aden, has complained about UAE troop moves on Socotra. The government accused the UAE last year of seizing the island when it unloaded tanks and troops there. Saudi Arabia, leader of the pro-Hadi Arab coalition, had to send troops to Socotra to defuse a standoff between Emirati and Hadi forces. Two Yemeni government sources said on Wednesday the UAE had trained a batch of 300 troops bound for Socotra in Aden last week, and sent more than 100 of them to the island on Monday. Yemen's interior minister, reacting to reports that southern separatist troops were headed for Socotra, criticised the UAE last week and said it should concentrate on fighting the Houthis. "I think our partnership with the coalition is the war against the Houthis and not sharing the administrations of the liberated territories," Ahmed al-Mayssari said in comments broadcast by Yemeni television channels. Story continues A spokesman for the Saudi-led coalition did not respond immediately to Reuters requests for comment. UAE Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Anwar Gargash, denied the reports. "It is among the fake news that I have seen today," Gargash said later on Twitter, without elaborating. The UAE has also previously denied Yemeni accusations that it is seeking control of the island. The separatists say they have more than 50,000 fighters armed and trained by the UAE and aim to restore the independent state of Southern Yemen, which united with northern Yemen in 1990 at the end of a long war. Clashes between Hadi's forces and the southern separatists are relatively rare but they fought each other on Wednesday in the southwestern al-Dhalea province over control of government buildings, a statement from Hadi's forces said. The statement said Hadi forces left al-Dhalea after the clashes but were ambushed again on the way to Aden by the southern forces and "many were killed and wounded". It gave no further details. The UAE has been at odds with Hadi because of his alliance with the Islamist Islah party. The UAE sees Islah as an offshoot of the Muslim Brotherhood, which it has designated as a terrorist organisation. (Additional reporting by Mohamed Ghobari in Aden; Editing by Paul Tait) New York state has steadily passed legislation in recent days that seeks to limit the presidents pardon powers and curtail his ability to withhold his tax returns from Congress. The states senate voted on Wednesday in favour of a bill that requires local agencies to comply with requests for state tax returns from the heads of Congresss House ways and means committee, the Senate finance committee or the joint committee on taxation. New Yorks senate also voted to support legislation that allows state prosecutors including attorney aeneral Letitia James to file charges against certain members of the presidents orbit if they have received pardons for federal crimes. Those who received presidential pardons would need to be members of the presidents family, former employees, or there must be a clear and present conflict of interest in order for New York state to invoke its new so-called double-jeopardy loophole. The senates tax return legislation is expected to pass in the state assembly before governor Andrew Cuomo a prominent opponent to Mr Trump signs it into law. That means Mr Trumps home-state could be the first to provide Congressional committees probing the presidents financial dealings with copies of his tax returns after the president defied modern precedent by refusing to disclose his returns. It also means the states attorney general who sailed to victory in her recent election on a message of holding the nations most powerful institutions accountable could soon be able to file new charges against Mr Trumps former campaign chairman Paul Manafort, who the president has suggested he may pardon. Manafort is a former New York state resident currently serving a prison sentence over bank and tax fraud charges, as well as for witness tampering and failing to disclose lobbying work. Discussing the possibility of pardoning his ex-campaign boss in a November interview with the New York Post, Mr Trump said: It was never discussed, but I wouldnt take it off the table. Why would I take it off the table? Story continues New York has been one of the most important states to have served as a form of checks-and-balances against Mr Trumps administration, launching subpoenas for multiple banks the president has been known to deal with and new investigations into his finances. Here you have a president who is stonewalling the US Congress, a co-equal branch of government undertaking its important oversight responsibilities, New York state senator Brad Hoylman told CBS News about the tax legislation. He added, Lo and behold, we have Donald Trumps tax returns here in the state of New York and we can provide them to Congress if the IRS, if the treasury department wont. For Immediate Release Chicago, IL May 8, 2019 Zacks.com announces the list of stocks featured in the Analyst Blog. Every day the Zacks Equity Research analysts discuss the latest news and events impacting stocks and the financial markets. Stocks recently featured in the blog include: Plymouth Industrial REIT, Inc. PLYM, Ashford Hospitality Trust, Inc. AHT, First Business Financial Services, Inc. FBIZ, SB One Bancorp SBBX and PulteGroup Inc. PHM. Here are highlights from Tuesdays Analyst Blog: Top U.S.-Focused Stocks to Buy as Trade War Tensions Increase On May 6, key Trump administration officials raised trade tensions by claiming that China was backtracking from commitments made during the early rounds of negotiations. They indicated that the U.S. President was ready to continue the conflict in order to extract crucial concessions from authorities in Beijing. Trouble on the trade front was brewing from May 5 when President Trump tweeted that he was preparing to raise tariffs on China. Trump claimed that this had become necessary since Beijing was looking to renege on earlier promises. Though another round of trade negotiations will still take place this week, it is unlikely that a deal will concluded by May 10 or any time soon. Against this backdrop, investing in U.S.-focused real estate investment trusts (REITs), homebuilders and regional banks looks like a smart option. Lighthizer, Mnuchin Raise Trade War Pitch On Monday, U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer said that trade negotiations were moving backwards instead of forwards which was unacceptable according to President Trump. Lighthizer claimed that an erosion in commitments was visible on the part of China. His views were echoed by Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin, who claimed that the Trump administration had learnt over the weekend that China was trying to go back on some of the language that had been agreed upon during previous rounds of negotiations. Story continues These key members of the Trump administration announced that tariffs on Chinese goods worth $200 billion will be raised from 10% to 25% on May 10. Mnuchin claimed: Theres no question that some of the trade policies helped in the G.D.P. number, referring to the strong first-quarter GDP read-out. Trump Tweets Raise Alarm, Near-Term Deal Unlikely The ongoing U.S.-China trade conflict had taken a turn for the worse following tweets made by President Trump on Sunday. Accusing China on backtracking from earlier commitments, Trump said tariffs would be raised on $200 billion of the countrys imports on May 10. Trump also threatened to impose a 25% import duty on $325 billion worth of Chinese goods. The U.S. President claimed that such tariffs have had little impact on product cost, mostly borne by China. Trump has been accused of going soft on China and his team seems to think that it is best to raise the protectionist ante ahead of his 2020 reelection bid. Trumps tweets have also made a near-term trade agreement politically unviable for Chinas government. Sealing a deal ahead of the May 10 deadline would be viewed as an act of capitulation by the Chinese populace. Beijing has also been unwilling to change its state-guided economy drastically even though this has emerged as a key sticking point during negotiations. Our Choices Comments from President Trump and key officials from his administration indicate that the United States is prepared to prolong the U.S.-China trade conflict. Their adversarial stance has also made it politically unfeasible for China to agree to a near-term trade deal. It is now amply clear that a trade war which has wrecked multinational stocks, particularly tech and industrials, is far from over. Investing in stocks of homebuilders, regional banks and REITs with a domestic focus would be prudent in such an environment. They would likely provide better returns compared to their peers with higher overseas exposure. However, picking winning stocks may be difficult. This is where our VGM Score comes in. Here V stands for Value, G for Growth and M for Momentum and the score is a weighted combination of these three scores. Such a score allows you to eliminate the negative aspects of stocks and select winners. However, it is important to keep in mind that each Style Score will carry a different weight while arriving at a VGM Score. We have narrowed down our search to the following stocks, each of which has a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) and a good VGM Score. You can see the complete list of todays Zacks #1 Rank stocks here. Plymouth Industrial REIT, Inc. is a full service, vertically integrated REIT company. Plymouth Industrial REIT has a VGM Score of A. The companys expected earnings growth for the current year is more than 100%. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for the current year has improved by 59.9% over the last 60 days. Ashford Hospitality Trust, Inc. is an REIT focusing on investing in the hospitality industry. Ashford Hospitality has a VGM Score of B. The companys projected growth rate for the current year is 3.6%. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for the current year has improved by 9.3% over the last 30 days. First Business Financial Services, Inc. is the bank holding company for First Business Bank which offers a range of banking products and services. First Business has a VGM Score of B. The companys projected growth rate for the current year is 19.2%. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for the current year has improved by 8.1% over the last 30 days. SB One Bancorp is the bank holding company for SB One Bank, which offers a variety of banking products and services. SB One Bancorp has a VGM Score of B. The companys expected earnings growth for the current year is 35.8%. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for the current year has improved by 8.8% over the last 30 days. PulteGroup Inc. engages in the homebuilding and financial services businesses primarily in the United States. PulteGroup has a VGM Score of B. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for the current year has improved by 9.4% over the last 30 days. Radical New Technology Creates $12.3 Trillion Opportunity Imagine buying Microsoft stock in the early days of personal computers or Motorola after it released the worlds first cell phone. These technologies changed our lives and created massive profits for investors. Today, were on the brink of the next quantum leap in technology. 7 innovative companies are leading this 4th Industrial Revolution - and early investors stand to earn the biggest profits. See the 7 breakthrough stocks now>> Media Contact Zacks Investment Research 800-767-3771 ext. 9339 support@zacks.com https://www.zacks.com Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Inherent in any investment is the potential for loss. This material is being provided for informational purposes only and nothing herein constitutes investment, legal, accounting or tax advice, or a recommendation to buy, sell or hold a security. No recommendation or advice is being given as to whether any investment is suitable for a particular investor. It should not be assumed that any investments in securities, companies, sectors or markets identified and described were or will be profitable. All information is current as of the date of herein and is subject to change without notice. Any views or opinions expressed may not reflect those of the firm as a whole. Zacks Investment Research does not engage in investment banking, market making or asset management activities of any securities. These returns are from hypothetical portfolios consisting of stocks with Zacks Rank = 1 that were rebalanced monthly with zero transaction costs. These are not the returns of actual portfolios of stocks. The S&P 500 is an unmanaged index. Visit https://www.zacks.com/performance for information about the performance numbers displayed in this press release. 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 First Business Financial Services, Inc. (FBIZ) : Free Stock Analysis Report SB ONE BANCORP (SBBX) : Free Stock Analysis Report PulteGroup, Inc. (PHM) : Free Stock Analysis Report Ashford Hospitality Trust Inc (AHT) : Free Stock Analysis Report PLYMOUTH IND RE (PLYM) : Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Zacks Investment Research A man in Los Angeles' posh Holmby Hills neighborhood was hiding a stash of weapons large enough to outfit an army. The Los Angeles Police Department busted Girard Damien Saenz, 57, with as many as 1,000 weapons piled up in his home. Authorities also found massive stockpiles of ammunition. Saenz, who was living in the home alone, was booked for unlawful transportation and giving, lending or selling assault weapons. Additional charges may be added later, including federal charges, authorities said. He is being held on $50,000 bond. "I had never seen so many weapons in my career of 31 years," said LAPD Lt. Chris Ramirez. "That's such a big arsenal in a residence like this, in this type of neighborhood. It's astounding." Holmby Hills is bordered by the Beverly Hills and Bel Air neighborhoods and is home to the late Aaron Spelling's massive $85 million mansion and the Playboy Mansion. Officials removed all of the guns -- hundreds of rifles, semiautomatics, handguns and even antique Civil War-era guns -- and piled them up outside the man's home. Officials spent the entire afternoon cataloging the humongous stash of firearms. Ramirez called the cache of weapons "beyond comprehension" in a press conference Wednesday. He said the large house was cluttered with piles of guns and ammunition spread throughout different rooms. Saenz apparently was licensed to own weapons -- and there is no prohibition on the number of guns a person can own -- but the person was selling the guns illegally, according to police. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) assisted in the operation. Source:- ABC News 10:00 | DESIGN: Think before screens Where are we going in UX design? Firsthand insights and experience from Porsche Style, our design studio. Kersten Stahl, Porsche 11:30 | SPRINT: Balancing the two-speed world What are the biggest challenges for digital products in an automotive company? Live stream of Fireside chat. Stefan Zerweck, Porsche Digital and Katia Moskvitch, Wired UK 13:00 | E-PERFORMANCE: Soul electrified How can you keep an emotional experience while moving into the e-mobility space? Andreas Becker, Porsche 14:00 | CONNECTIVITY: NextGen Navigation Navigation is an odd topic. Is it really? Get more insights, what innovations are still possible in the navigation space and how Porsche collaborates with startups. Gideon van Dijk, Chargetrip, Jan Feiling, Porsche & Institute for System Theory and Automatic Control and Markus Knopp, Porsche 15:00 | DIGITAL BUSINESS: Developing Porsche Next Porsche is entering e-commerce applications and is adapting its digital product development. Get first-hand insights and future visions of Porsche colleagues. Virginia Pinnisi, Dennis Knecht, Stefan Berberich, and Philipp Schubert, Porsche 16:00 | NEXT VISIONS: Now were talking What happens if startups and corporations are joining forces to look into the future? Challenges and insights. RJ Cobalt, Cobalt Industries, Pieter Waller, Chargetrip and Christian Knorle, Porsche Famine is on the rise in the Near East and North Africa with more than 52 million people undernourished, most of them in conflict zones, the UN food agency said Wednesday. "Conflicts and protracted crises have spread and worsened since 2011, threatening the region's efforts" to eliminate hunger, said the UN Food and Agriculture Organization. "Fifty-two million people in the region are suffering from chronic undernourishment" with two-thirds of them in conflict zones, the FAO said in a statement. These included Iraq, Libya, Sudan, Syria and Yemen, whose ongoing four-year war has killed tens of thousands of people, including many civilians, according to humanitarian organisations. The fighting in Yemen has triggered what the United Nations describes as the world's worst humanitarian crisis, with 3.3 million people still displaced and 24.1 million in need of aid. Conflicts in the Near East and North Africa also had "long-lasting impacts on the food and nutrition security" of surrounding countries, said Abdessalam Ould Ahmed, the FAO's Cairo-based regional representative. "The impact of conflict has been disrupting food and livestock production in some countries and consequently affecting the availability of food across the region," he said. Beyond conflicts, the FAO said rising hunger was also made worse in the region by rapid population growth, scarce and fragile natural resources and the growing threat of climate change. In response to the crisis, the UN agency called for the sustainable transformation of agriculture. The FAO urged countries to improve market access for farmers, promote investment and innovation in agriculture and the management of water resources. The fighting in Yemen (protesters pictured September 2018) has triggered what the UN describes as the world's worst humanitarian crisis, with 24.1 million people in need of aid If you are currently a print subscriber but don't have an online account, select this option. You will need to use your 7 digit subscriber account number (with leading zeros) and your last name (in UPPERCASE). Lucas Moura came to Europe dreaming of winning the Champions League but few could imagine the Brazilian's chance to fulfil his ambition would arrive with Tottenham after he was discarded by Paris Saint-Germain. Spurs will go to Madrid on June 1 to face Liverpool thanks to Lucas's second half hat-trick that turned around a 3-0 aggregate deficit against Ajax as the club reached the final for the first time in their history. "The Champions League final is a dream for me. Since I was a child I dreamed of this moment and now I live this moment," said an emotional Lucas. "We need to enjoy it. Look at me -- it's the best moment in my life, my career." Ajax's wonder kids had wowed the continent with their dazzling talent in eliminating Real Madrid and Juventus and seemed set to add the scalp of a jaded Tottenham to that list after 135 minutes of the tie. In different circumstances Lucas would likely not even have been on the pitch. Harry Kane watched on from the sidelines due to ankle ligament damage, the latest injury to have ravaged Mauricio Pochettino's over-worked squad -- Spurs have not signed a single player since Lucas's arrival in January 2018. Yet after a season of ups and downs, Spurs will travel to the Spanish capital knowing they could be on the brink of the greatest night in the club's history. "Without Harry Kane many people were talking about Son (Heung-min), but today it was Lucas Moura who scored three goals," said Pochettino, who broke down in tears after the match in Amsterdam. "That showed that the team is more important than any name. When one does not play, another plays." Lucas's former employers PSG would do well to remember that piece of advice as their star-studded approach to try and buy European glory continues to fail. The world-record signing of Neymar for 222 million euros ($248 million) saw Lucas jettisoned from Paris for a fraction of that fee, yet in the course of 40 minutes in Amsterdam he scored as many Champions League semi-final goals as Neymar has in his career. "All the credit goes to Lucas because he has made history for the club. He deserves it because he just has an incredible mentality and I think it's a nice story of revenge for him," said Tottenham and France captain Hugo Lloris. "He showed this evening that if you score a hat-trick in these circumstances you don't do so just by chance. "He has the quality and the mentality and he can flourish with us, which is all the better for us." - Poch transformation - Pochettino branded Lucas a "superhero" but must also take much of the credit for the transformation of the club over five years and his team over 45 minutes. When the Argentine arrived in north London in 2014, just qualifying for the Champions League was the target. Barring a final day collapse in the Premier League, next season will involve a fourth consecutive campaign dining at Europe's top table and they could even win it in just over three weeks' time. Pochettino's half-time change to throw on the physical presence of Fernando Llorente up front unsettled Ajax and the visitors' preyed on that weak spot, with an aerial bombardment. With 95 minutes come and gone, so seemed Spurs' hopes, but one last long ball up to the Spaniard was flicked on and found its way to Lucas to launch a dagger into Ajax hearts. "It was not simply Lucas Moura?s nervelessness when it counted most, and his pace, skill and clinical finishing," wrote The Times. "It was Moura?s utter determination to run at Ajax defenders, including the revered captain (Matthijs) De Ligt, that gave Spurs hope." Hope that has carried the 26-year-old and his team all the way to Madrid. Lucas Moura scored a hat-trick as Tottenham beat Ajax to reach the Champions League final Next man up: Lucas Moura may not even have started against Ajax if Tottenham striker Harry Kane had been fit Rozanna Purcell has been praised for sharing a picture of her stretch marks. Photo: Instagram/rozannapurcell Model Rozanna Purcell has been applauded for being real on her Instagram page, by showing the stretch marks, veins and hair follicles on her legs. The 28-year-old, who won Miss Universe Ireland in 2010, shared a snap of a bowl of fruit sitting in between her legs with her 265,000 followers, as she holidays in Montenegro. Looking forward to getting home and cooking up some recipes, the fitness blogger caption her snap. Ps. On another note it's rare to see unsmoothend legs on the gram- they have veins, hair follicles, stretch marks and sometimes tan coming off. The post has already been liked by over 7,000 people, with fans of the stunner saying Roz is like a breath of fresh air. My forever fave on instagram in a world of fake you make everything real, one person said. Love the realness of your legs.... so many airbrushed bodies had me worrying something is wrong with my body, another person said. It isnt the first time Roz has stood proud and showed her stretch marks on her Insta page. Stretch marks are something that caused me to never swim on holidays , worry about what others thought, avoid shorts, walking in front of people, she previously said on a snap of her standing in front of a pool in Marrakech. Growing up I was so confused when I first got them I was like these are so cool I'm so different, learning as I hit teenage years that I shouldn't be so proud of them and in fact they were not considered beautiful . Roz went on to say that after posting the photo one woman mailed her to tell her that she tells her kids to look at their stretch marks as a line for every month/year they grow, just like a tree. Story continues Thanks so much for sharing this! Its so important for us all to see that not only does everyone have insecurities but that everybody has marks, imperfections or blemishes. Were all perfectly imperfect and flawesome(to quote the great Tyra Banks), one of her followers said on the post. I am a man with stretch marks and I really appreciate these types of images of girls showing their marks. You look very feminine and great, a follower said. The Natural Born Feeder blogger has been open about her struggles with her body and food in the past. For Eating Disorder Awareness Week in March she uploaded a shocking before and after image to her Instagram page. I feel sad looking back, I wasted so many years putting myself down, missing opportunities and worst of all not being me around my friends and family, Roz captioned the snap. She admits that the girl on the left hand side of the photo would regularly binge on food, then purge and throw up on repeat, not respecting or being grateful for her health. Rozanna said that through therapy and reaching out for help she began to realise how important it was for her to start being me again. I wish I could go back and talk to my younger self sometimes, but I can't & I guess that's why it's good to talk about it now so maybe even one person will go ask for help, she wrote. 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. US President Donald Trump plans to nominate acting Pentagon chief Patrick Shanahan as his next secretary of defense, the White House announced Thursday. The former Boeing executive has been acting secretary for more than four months, since James Mattis resigned in protest over Trump's surprise announcement of a rapid withdrawal of US troops from Afghanistan and Syria. "Based on his outstanding service to the country and his demonstrated ability to lead, President Trump intends to nominate Patrick M. Shanahan to be secretary of defense," a White House statement said. A politically flexible management professional originally brought to the Pentagon to modernize its trillion-dollar acquisition program, Shanahan, said he was happy to accept the nomination. "I am honored by today's announcement of President Trump's intent to nominate," he said in a statement. "If confirmed by the Senate, I will continue the aggressive implementation of our National Defense Strategy." "I remain committed to modernizing the force so our remarkable soldiers, sailors, airmen, and marines have everything they need to keep our military lethal and our country safe." Shanahan, 56, was Mattis's own pick in 2017 to be deputy secretary of defense, overseeing the management of the massive US military bureaucracy. Before joining the Pentagon, he spent 30 years at Boeing, where he earned the nickname Mr Fix-It for having put the problem-saddled Dreamliner program back on the tracks. Since taking the Pentagon's reins on January 1 as acting secretary, he has kept a low profile while bending to Trump's pressure to deploy Defense Department funding and manpower to the southern border to halt the inflow of migrants from Central America. But he first had to undergo an investigation into allegations that he was a biased advocate for Boeing, especially against rival aerospace company Lockheed Martin, the builder of the F-35 joint strike fighter. After he was cleared of those allegations two weeks ago, the way was open for Trump's nomination. Patrick Shanahan has been acting US defense secretary for more than four months, since James Mattis resigned in protest at Donald Trump's surprise announcement of a rapid withdrawal of US troops from Afghanistan and Syria The US trade deficit widened in March, reversing the dip in February, but amid a high-stakes trade war the gap with China narrowed, according to government data released Thursday. Goods imports from China fell to their lowest level in almost three years, with a notable drop in purchases of mobile phones and other household goods, according the Commerce Department report. The modest increase in the US trade gap came as President Donald Trump's efforts to conclude a year-long trade battle with China verged on collapse, with punitive duty rates on hundreds of billions of Chinese goods due to more than double in less than 24 hours. American officials say Chinese negotiators have reneged on core promises made during months of talks but they are due to resume later Thursday. Trump has made trade a defining issue of his presidency, believing trade imbalances destroy jobs and drain the world's largest economy, but the trade deficit has continued to rise since he took office. The deficit in merchandise trade with China fell 6.2 percent to $28.3 billion, seasonally adjusted, the lowest level since April 2016. In March, the total US trade gap -- the difference between what the United States sells abroad and what it buys -- rose 1.5 percent from February to $50 billion, a slightly smaller increase than economists had been expecting, as American firms exported fewer jet planes but imported more crude oil and food, That increase nevertheless put the deficit in the first quarter 3.7 percent below the same three-month period of 2018. Total US exports rose one percent to $212 billion, with higher sales of natural gas, fuel oil, coal used in forging metal and soy beans. But sales of aircraft decreased by $700 million, probably reflecting the suspension of deliveries by US aviation giant Boeing following the grounding worldwide of the top-selling 737 MAX aircraft in March in the wake of fatal crashes in Ethiopia and Indonesia. Exports of services, like product licensing, tourism, and transportation, were the highest on record at $70.3 billion. Total imports meanwhile rose 1.1 percent to $262 billion, driven by faster purchases of crude oil and organic chemicals as well as seafood, wine, feeds, grains and other foods. In non-seasonally adjusted numbers, the US goods deficit with Mexico hit a record $9.5 billion for the month. Exports to the EU were the highest on record at $30.6 billion, while imports from Germany were likewise the highest on record at $11.4 billion. Imports from Japan reached their highest level in seven years at $13.3 billion. US goods imports from China fell to their lowest level in almost three years, according the Commerce Department report They've been banking on this - he claimed this on the Wendy William's show (last year I think?). I don't really get how this is a defense though, wouldn't you still be liable? It's not like he doesn't have a team that can read for him. This is like saying you won't pay your phone bill because you didn't read it Reply Thread Link This is speculation so maybe I'm wrong, but I'd guess the rules around failing to attend/respond because of illiteracy had to be written for the people who *wouldn't* have a team of management or lawyers on stand by reading all their stuff for them. And even for those who did, not to penalise them for any failure by their representation to inform them. Which then leaves an obvious loophole for the rich and represented to just feign ignorance, but legally speaking because everybody has to be treated consistently/be subject to the same expectation it's hard to avoid Reply Parent Thread Link Wait, so was he asking for driver's licenses before he went after young girls? And since he could not read them, he does not have to be responsible? Reply Parent Thread Link I don't care if he can read, I just want him under the jail yesterday #PERIODt Reply Thread Link mte enough already Reply Parent Thread Link ONTD do you think R Kelly is illiterate? It's possible. The credited song writer thing doesn't phase me, a lot of people who are "illiterate" are more like functionally illiterate where they can't read or write well but they can puzzle through some stuff. Like things are written down but they're riddled with the kind of spelling errors a first grader would make. Also with assistants to write stuff down or even technology that transcribes text to speech it's possible he authored songs that way. Anyway I would never make fun of R. Kelly for being illiterate, but he is a rapist piece of shit and I hope that he finally faces justice for what he's done to countless girls and women. Reply Thread Link i remember him saying this before but yeah wtf about his songs? i always ??? at musicians who claim to write their own music but can barely compose a tweet or an ig caption in general Reply Thread Link He could have come up with the words and just recorded them instead of written them down. People adapt. I'm sure eventually someone on his team would have just written down the lyrics officially. Reply Parent Thread Link This isn't the first time I've heard he's illiterate. People can talk and not read- as others pointed out, people could just write down whatever lyrics he came up with. I don't think it's an excuse for the lawsuit stuff, just that it is possible he's illiterate. Reply Parent Thread Link Does it matter? He could have had his lawyer read it instead of ignoring it. Reply Thread Link torch his ass already Reply Thread Link Fuck off and die, please. He is a shit stain. Reply Thread Link I mean...this rumor has been around for *years*. Reply Thread Link idgaf, throw him in a pit Reply Thread Link Jfc rme Reply Thread Link How is this a defense? He has a lawyer. He also has a manager. He has a publicist. Fuck this piece of shit. Reply Thread Link Just fucking kill him Reply Thread Link Duh. Who was the guy being interviewed and went off on him on a bitch eating crackers level? All I remember is "he pees on girls and he can't read". Also not being able to read shouldn't be a defense. Reply Thread Link I think it was Vic Mensa? Reply Parent Thread Link lol that was Vince Staples at a Coachella interview Reply Parent Thread Link Shitty defense; he could have someone read to him. Throw him under the jail. With that said, I remember some notes that he wrote that were labeled as evidence at his last trial, and based on how they were written I would say he has issues with reading AND writing. Reply Thread Link Irans oil exports are plunging. Waivers on U.S. sanctions for Iranian oil purchases expired earlier this month, and there is evidence that most countries are steering clear of running afoul of Washington. The result is an absolute plunge oil exports from Iran. Bloomberg reported on May 9 that not a single ship has been seen leaving Irans oil terminals for foreign ports, according to tanker tracking data. There has been speculation that refiners in China and India might continue importing oil from Iran. India, bought 400,000 bpd from Iran in April, according to Bloomberg, stockpiling ahead of the expiration of waivers. But so far, tanker data suggests that most parties are complying with Washingtons demands, and Iran is suffering from a tightening noose. However, Bloomberg notes that tanker data is not full-proof. Ships leaving Iran can switch off their transponders so that they disappear from view. For instance, there have been no tracking signals from 10 very large crude carriers for at least 16 days. Bloomberg suggests that most likely they are being used for floating storage. Meanwhile, separate data suggests that Iran is shipping oil to Syria. In the first week of May, at least one tanker delivered crude to a Syrian port, according to CNBC, TankerTrackers.com and ClipperData. While the precise volume exported from Iran may be higher than zero, shipments are undoubtedly crashing. Irans oil exports could fall from 1.2 million barrels per day (mb/d) to 0.7 mb/d by this summer, according to Ann-Louise Hittle, VP Oils Research at Wood Mackenzie. Related: Exxon Presents Its Very Own Solution To Climate Change A separate report from the King Abdullah Petroleum Studies and Research Center (KAPSARC) has a different take, and concludes that the international community, and indeed some of the waiver countries, will at best partially comply with renewed U.S. sanctions. Not only that, but the report argues that the U.S. may have to back down a bit in the face of rising oil prices. Our modeling also suggests that there remains a high risk of U.S. capitulation in the face of international pressure to extend or reissue waivers, or to replace them with some equivalent mechanism. Much depends on whether or not Saudi Arabia rides to the rescue and adds supply in order to offset outages in Iran. For now, though, the collapse of Irans oil exports is underway, which will significantly increase the economic pressure on the country. That may not lead to the downfall of the Iranian government, as the Trump administration hopes. If anything, it is pushing their back against the wall, likely contributing to a tit-for-tat cycle of escalation. The U.S. seems intent on provoking Iran into making a misstep. In April, not only did the Trump administration announce that it would not extend waivers on oil purchases, it also labeled the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps as a foreign terrorist organization. More recently, U.S. national security adviser John Bolton said that American warships heading towards the Middle East were supposed to be a message to Tehran. Finally, the Trump administration announced new sanctions on Wednesday targeting Irans metals exports, another crucial source of hard currency. Iran had seemed content with waiting out the Trump administration, but with oil exports plunging and the benefits of the 2015 nuclear accord now vanishingly small, some within the Iranian government are more eager to pushback. Iran said that it would stop complying with certain parts of the nuclear deal. Related: The Biggest Catalyst In Oil Markets Is Going Unnoticed Top American officials are beating the war drums. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said that Iran was escalating their activity, without providing evidence or detail. Acting Defense Secretary also said that there was very, very credible intelligence about an imminent threat from Iran, again without much detail. Some see echoes of the lead up to war with Iraq in 2003 in which intelligence was exaggerated. Irans foreign minister, Mohammad Javad Zarif, said that while war may not be imminent, the U.S. is putting things in place for accidents to happen. Although, as the Washington Post reports, its not clear that Trump and his national security adviser are on the same page. Trump has said in recent days that Bolton wants to get him into a war a comment that he has made in jest in the past but that now betrays his more serious concerns, one senior administration official said, the Post reported. Trump issued a statement Wednesday saying that he looks forward to someday meeting with the leaders of Iran in order to work out an agreement. While Bolton is out for war, its not clear that Trump has the same desire. Whether or not a military confrontation is in the offing, the pressure on Iranian oil exports from the U.S. will certainly not let up. We expect Brent to hold a little over US$70/bbl in the coming months. But the US policy decision to throttle supply with simultaneous sanctions on Iran and Venezuela is fraught with risk, Ann-Louise Hittle of WoodMac said. Yes, OPEC can meet the immediate shortfall, but that leaves precious little spare capacity if theres more supply disruption. Mounting geopolitical tension is a real threat to oil market stability. By Nick Cunningham of Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: Mounting uncertainty over oil supply disruptions are clouding OPECs outlook on global supply for the rest of this year, a month and a half before the cartel is set to decide whether to extend its production cuts or ramp up output to offset an expected significant drop in Iranian oil exports now that the U.S. has ended all sanction waivers for Irans customers. The expected but yet-to-be-estimated losses of Iranian barrels, as well as an outage of an oil pipeline from Russia to Europe, are giving OPEC a headache in trying to predict how much global oil supply will possibly drop in the second half of 2019, sources in OPEC have told Reuters. The end of the U.S. sanction waivers for all Iranian all buyers means that Irans oil exports will drop as of this month, but no one is really sure by how much. Various analysts expect that Iran will continue to ship oil somewhere between 200,000 bpd and 600,000 bpd, but not all that oil would be oil sales as it could be debt repayment, and some of it is expected to go under the radar. To make OPECs task even more difficult, Russia halted last month supplies via the Druzhba oil pipeline to several European countries due to a contamination issue, which the Russians say was deliberate. Russian production has been curtailed because of the restricted exports via the Druzhba pipeline. According to one of Reuters sources at OPEC, the Russian outage could be potentially significant. Related: Irans Master Plan To Beat U.S. Sanctions Citigroupadmitting that its difficult to estimate how the Russian outage will impact the global supply-demandwarns that some 400,000 bpd of Russian oil may be off the market for a longer period of time than initially thought. As if these outages are not enough, Venezuelas oil production and exports may also continue to drop in coming weeks and months, while Libyas ongoing fighting could threaten oil facilities and exports at some point. All these uncertainties in oil supply are making OPECs decision making more difficult as the cartel and allies are getting ready to hold a panel of technical committees later this month in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, to discuss the state of the oil market and the supply and demand balance. By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: In terms of oil and gas, post-Soviet nations are currently undergoing a consolidation phase that slowly brings back former partners that have fallen out in 2014-2016. Prices of both oil and gas have bounced back to such a level that satisfies the producer an important feat in countries where hydrocarbon export revenues feed the economy and new deals are being forged as a consequence. One of such is Gazprom renewing its purchases of Turkmen gas after a more than three-year hiatus, replete with frustrated hopes and mutual grievances. Moscow and Ashgabat have moved to leave past grievances aside yet the now emerging gas alliance is much more a marriage of convenience than of profound love. The Turkmen-Russian gas axis has a decade-long history as Gazprom generally did not allow for direct transit of Central Asian gas through its massive transportation system yet agreed to buy out these volumes for further exports, basically making sure that the traders margin remains at all cases with them. Cognizant of the peculiarity of exporting gas to Ukraine, throughout years Gazprom used Turkmen gas to supply this Eastern European nation. In this vein, Russian and Turkmenistan have concluded a 20-year agreement in 2009 for the supply of up to 30 BCm gas per year. The contract also included a take-or-pay threshold of 10 BCm which would eventually turn out to be the stumbling block upon which the whole contract fell over. Not only was there a take-or-pay threshold but the price was fixed, too, at 240 USD/MCm which was tolerable for Gazprom in the halcyon days of the early 2010s yet became unbearable after gas prices plummeted to 170 USD/MCm in 2015. For the Central Asian transit it needed, Gazprom opted for Uzbek volumes (all the more so as the Russian firm has own production there) and unilaterally terminated the Turkmen contract after several unsuccessful attempts to renegotiate the terms of the deal. Turkmenistan did not put up a scene as it had set its sight on China which promised to be a market outlet for most if not all of Turkmenistans ample natural gas. Related: Oil Production Booms But Funding Is Drying Up Yet Turkmenistan suffered a double blow to its gas export plans supplies to Iran were halted a year after Russia stopped its imports, due to the NIGCs non-payment for substantial parts of the Turkmen volumes. This left Ashgabat with only one market outlet China which was satisfied with the roughly 40 BCm per year it received from Turkmenistan and did not have any immediate plans to increase it. Moreover, the Chinese were voicing their displeasure on the allegedly subpar level of gas transmission infrastructure on Turkmen territory and the inability of Turkmen side to supply gas uninterruptedly, especially in times of increased demand. Thus, Turkmenistan had to go back to Russia and find common ground again with Gazprom. Hence came about the most recent Russo-Turkmen deal, which contrary to previous practice is short-term, a temporary filler before the two sides iron out a new long-term contract. Under the new deal signed April 15, it would be Gazproms Swiss subsidiary that would buy 1.2 BCm of Turkmen gas in H1 2019, to be supplied through the usual Central Asian route to customers in Southern and Central Eastern Europe (Gazprom Schweiz is routinely responsible for supplying the Balkan countries and Romania). Even though neither of the parties disclosed the details of pricing terms, the average European price Gazprom has reported lately, oscillating between $230 and $260 per MCm (see Graph 1), gives an insight what the Russians might be seeking. Graph 1. Gazprom Export Gas Prices for Europe 2016-2019 (USD/MCm). (Click to enlarge) Source: Gazprom. Gazprom seems to be unlikely to get into another fixed-price long-term deal, hence they would seek a setup that follows European prices and keeps a healthy traders margin anchored in. Despite its evident drive for maximum profit, the Turkmen side would not necessarily object to this as media reports put the price China pays for its gas at approximately $180 per MCm. Yet there are other interesting facets of the deal for instance, it might seem a little counter-intuitive that Russia would start Turkmen transit in a year when European gas demand this winter turned out to be significantly lower than during the 2016-2017 and 2017/2018 seasons. Consider this in view of the quite small amount of gas in question, largely inadequate to make the long route via Central Asian gas pipelines economically viable, and you will see that this move might be a part of a wider strategy. Related: IEA: Renewables Growth Is Stalling What advantage does the inclusion of Turkmen gas give Gazprom on a broader scale? Gazprom still has roughly 100 BCm per year of spare production capacity which it does not use due to a lack of market outlets, so the issue of feedstock shortage is out of question. On the other hand, the Russian firm might use Turkmen gas in political terms the European Commission has been pushing for some semblance of gas source diversification for some time already and was eyeing Turkmenistan specifically as the closest possible supplier. Yet project after project, the idea of connecting Turkmenistan to Europes gas transmission system gradually fizzled out. Whether the EC objects to Gazprom pumping its own gas via Nord Stream 2 or obstructs Russias attempts to extend TurkStream into Europe, the Russian firm can be creative about how it uses Turkmen gas as a negotiation chip. With China reportedly interested in creating new gas pipeline conduits from Russia to China, in addition to the Power of Siberia pipeline that will be commissioned this December, it might not even be a bad strategic decision. Russia and Turkmenistan are holding negotiations on a medium-term contract that would most likely see the light of the day in the second half of 2019. In view of the above, it might bring about some exciting changes in the European gas landscape. By Viktor Katona for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: A report that Occidental Petroleums corporate jet traveled to the Hague, one of Shells two home towns, has sparked a fresh flare-up of speculation regarding its proposed acquisition of Anadarko, CNBC reports, citing an unnamed source. The news comes after reports on Thursday suggest that Chevron is bowing out of the fight to acquire Anadarko, despite some analysts thinking that it would up its offer to compete with Occidentals. Chevron will be entitled to a $1 billion breakup fee per the terms of the original agreement. Bloomberg sources had originally reported today that Anadarko was looking for Chevron to increase its bid so that it was competitive with Occidentals bid. Occidental has been under the watchful eye of the media since its bid for Anadarko. Earlier this week, an earlier trip by Oxys corporate jet was reported by Bloomberg after sightings of Oxys Gulfstream V in Omaha, giving rise to rumors about a possible involvement of Warren Buffett in the deal, which later got their confirmation when Buffett said he was willing to bankroll the Anadarko acquisition if Occidental managed to get a final yes from the target company. The Sage from Omaha has committed US$10 billion to the deal, which is worth a total US$38 billion which has evidently been tracking the movements of the aircraft amid the bidding war between Oxy and Chevron, which last month offered to buy Anadarko for US$33 billion. Yet another Gulfstream V trip earlier this month, according to Bloomberg, had Occidental flying to Paris as well, where Total is headquartered. Related: Oil Production Booms But Funding Is Drying Up And now it looks like Shell is in the running as well, although in what capacity is not yet known. Shell and Anadarko, CNBC recalls, have shared assets in the Permian, where Occidental is the top player and Anadarko is among the largest competitors. The acquisition of the latter would establish Occidental as an undisputed leader in a space that supermajors have been eager to tap as well, with all but one expanding their assets there and planning ambitious drilling campaigns. The lone exception is Total, which has no shale acreage at all in the United States, which would make the Oxy jets trip to Paris all the more intriguing if, of course, it was made with the intention of meeting with Total at all. By Irina Slav for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: A floating oil tanker that hasnt been maintained since the conflict in Yemen erupted in 2015 is currently under the control of the Houthi rebels, who are preventing a United Nations team from assessing the danger from the tanker which has been described as a floating bomb that could explode after sitting unattended for so long. The Iran-aligned Houthi rebels have been fighting a Saudi-led Arab coalition in Yemen since 2015, and the Houthis have claimed over these years that they have targeted and hit oil facilities of Saudi Aramco in Saudi Arabia. The floating storage and offloading (FSO) unit SAFER has been sitting off Yemens coast since early 2015 and hasnt been maintained or attended since then. Experts say that the oil in tanker now is at danger of exploding, potentially leading to an environmental disaster and further aggravating what is already the worst humanitarian crisis in the world. The Houthis, however, are blocking access to the oil tanker, demanding a share of the revenues from the potential sale of some 1 million barrels of oil that the tanker still contains, The National reports. Last week, the leader of the Houthi uprising in Yemen, Mohammed Ali al-Houthi, asked the United Nations to sell the cargo of crude to generate revenues that would be used for the purchase of fuel and salaries for public sector employees. Various experts and organizations have been warning for months that the floating oil tanker is at danger of exploding. Last month, the Atlantic Council said in a report that the massive floating bomb in the Red Sea needs urgent attention and that despite the several requests for UN assistance by Yemeni authorities, the bomb remains afloat, untended and under the control of the Houthis. Given that the Houthis have already attempted to blow up several oil tankers in transit through the Bab al-Mandeb and Red Sea, it may well be the case that they view this precarious situation as a tactical and strategic advantage worth maintaining, the authors Ian Ralby, David Soud, and Rohini Ralby wrote in April. By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: Saudi Arabia has received several moderate requests to replace Iranian oil next month, Bloomberg reports, citing an anonymous source familiar with Riyadhs oil plans. The report comes on the heels of news that OPECs de facto leader and largest producer has raised export prices for Asian customers for June and July due to additional requests for exports. According to a Reuters update, Saudi Arabias Arab Light for June delivery sells at a premium of US$2.10 per barrel to the Oman/Dubai average, up by US$0.70 per barrel from cargoes for May delivery. Riyadh also raised the price of this most popular among its grades for Europe, by US$0.80 a barrel from the price of shipments for May delivery. The price for oil exports to the United States, however, was reduced. Interestingly enough, however, Saudi Arabia has no plans to start raising its oil production, the Bloomberg source noted. In March and April, the Kingdom pumped some 9.8 million bpd, below its quota of 10.311 million bpd assigned to it by the OPEC+ joint ministerial committee. Related: Oil Production Booms But Funding Is Drying Up Whats more interesting, however, is that, according to the source, Saudi Arabia had no plans to increase its overall exports next month. This means it would have to cut shipments to some destinations to satisfy reported Asian demand. The total Saudi exports in June are seen at less than 7 million bpd, with more oil remaining at home to use for air conditioning, earlier media reports said. Earlier this month, reports emerged, again quoting unnamed sources close to Riyadh, that Saudi Arabia could actually increase its oil production in June. However, those sources said, speaking to Reuters, that this did not mean the country would increase exports. The Saudis want oil prices to stay at current levels at least for a month or two. They dont want to raise their production above the 10.3 million bpd, because they are part of the OPEC+ pact, but they are also being pressured by the U.S. to increase their output, one of the sources said at the time. By Irina Slav for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: Shell plans to invest as much as US$2 billion annually in its Brazilian operations by 2025, Shells chief executive officer Ben van Beurden told Brazilian business daily Valor Economico in an exclusive interview published on Thursday. Shell, one of the most active foreign players in the Brazilian oil and gas sector, may even increase that amount in order to seize acquisition opportunities in three oil and gas auctions in the Latin American country. Shell will not focus its operations and investments only in the oil sector, and will pursue opportunities in natural gas, biofuels, and solar energy, van Beurden told Valor Economico. The supermajor, however, will not be investing in refineries in Brazil, he noted. Shell has been one of the most active foreign companies in many recent auctions that Brazil has held for its coveted offshore pre-salt layer. Back in 2017, a senior executive at Shell said that the company is confident that it can produce oil from Brazils promising prolific pre-salt layer for less than $40 per barrel. At an auction in September 2018, Shell, in a consortium with Chevron, won a 35-year production sharing contract for the Saturno pre-salt block located in the Santos Basin off the coast of Brazil. With the addition of the Saturno block, which Shell won in Brazils Fifth Pre-Salt Bid Round, the Anglo-Dutch major boosted its total net acreage offshore Brazil to around 2.7 million acres. We are pleased to add another material, operated exploration position to our leading portfolio in one of the worlds most prolific deep-water areas Andy Brown, Upstream Director, Royal Dutch Shell, said last September. Shell is also a partner pf Brazils state oil firm Petrobras in many deepwater projects offshore Brazil. Shell is a strategic partner of Petrobras in the pre-salt layer, holding minority interests in the Libra and Lula fields and in other areas such as Sapinhoa, Lapa, and Iara, all of which are located in the Santos Basin. By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: On a day where the United States has already went a few rounds with Iran over oil exports and sanctions, Florida Senator Rick Scott is calling for a US Naval blockade to stop Venezuelan oil from getting to its closest ally, Cuba, according to the Miami Herald. The US Navy should, according to Scott, employ a naval blockade stop the oil flow from Venezuela in an effort to choke off the influx of money to the countrys contested leader, Nicolas Maduro, to end his brutal regime. Its clear that the United States needs to consider using naval assets to block the flow of oil between the two dictatorships, Scott said on Wednesday, who added that President Donald Trump had already floated the idea of a full embargo on Cuba. Venezuelas oil flows to Cuba have so far continued largely unabated despite the sanctions, with Venezuela desperate to make good on its oil for goods agreement that dates back to the Chavez/Castro administrations. Venezuela is Cubas largest oil supplier, and at a high point, the oil trade from Venezuela to Cuba reached 100,000 bpd. Maduros opponent, Juan Guaido, has long asserted that oil shipments to Cuba must stop as Venezuela is in crisis with repeated blackouts that have plunged the country into darkness. Guaido said in March that Venezuela was still shipping 47,000 barrels per day to Cuba, despite the current sanctions levied by the United States. While Cuba has upped its oil purchases from Russia and Algeria, it is unlikely to find a better deal that it has from Venezuelawhich is essentially free. The favorable arrangement with Venezuela is likely to fuel a desperation to keep that agreement alive and may prove a difficult habit for the United States to break. By Julianne Geiger for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: The United States and Iran continued to trade barbs on Wednesday over the Iranian nuclear deal and Iranian oil exports as the United States stands firm on its position that it will succeed in reducing Iranian oil exports to zero, according to a US briefing reported by Asharq Al-Awsat. The US responded to flare ups in tensions with Iran with Irans Special Envoy Brian Hook vowing that any attack against the United States or its allies would be met with a show of force. Hook assured an unsettled market that it had already factored in Irans oil exports falling to zero. Oil prices were up in afternoon trading, with WTI up over 1 percent on the day. The strong words from the United States came after Iran announced it would no longer be curbing its nuclear program, threatening to go even further, saying it would resume enriching uranium at a higher level if the EU fails to live up to its end of the agreement by continuing Iranian oil purchases. In order to secure its rights and restore balance to the demands of the parties to the agreement, the Islamic Republic of Iran has no option other than "reducing commitments", Rouhani said in a statement. The EU is finding itself between the proverbial rock and hard place as it struggles to not run afoul of US sanctions against a major oil supplier. Reaffirming its commitment to the sanctions, the United States said it would quickly respond to any sanctions violation by the EU. US Special Assist to the President and Senior Director for Weapons of Mass Destruction added on Wednesday that Iran should expect more sanctions very soon. The United States had announced on Tuesday that it was deploying the USS Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group and a bomber task force to the U.S. Central Command region to send a clear and unmistakable message to the Iranian regime. By Julianne Geiger for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: Members of Ondo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress, APC, have been admonished against indiscipline in the party. Chairman of the party, Ade Adetimehin, who handed the warning on Wednesday at the partys secretariat in Akure, the Ondo State capital, emphasized that no one is bigger than the party. This was contained in a statement issued by the partys Publicity Secretary, Alex Kalejaye, where stated that the chairman urged members of the party to close ranks, and work together in the interest of the party. Kalejaye maintained that the state chapter would not condone any act of indiscipline from its members. According to him, Adetimehin stated this when he received delegation of leaders of various political parties from Akure North Local Government Area, who hinted on their plan to defect to the ruling party. He said, The party is bigger than any individual or group. I expect, therefore, that everyone must subject himself to the dictates of the party for its overall development. The party chieftain argued that the strength of every political party lies in the ability of its members to subsume personal interest and emphasis that of the party. We must learn to work together and observe the laid down organisational ways of doing things, he stressed. He admonished party faithful to be stable in their political life, and always learn how to fight a system within the system. The apex Igbo socio-cultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, says the withdrawal of certificates of returns of some Igbo persons by the Independent National Electoral Commission is a part of a plot by the ruling All Progressives Congress to ensure any Ndigbo does not emerge as presiding officer of the 9th National Assembly. In a statement in Abuja on Wednesday and signed by the President of Ohanaeze, FCT Abuja chapter, Odozi Nwodozi, the group among other things, demanded the immediate release of Certificate of Return of Governor Okorocha of Imo and Senator Benjamin Uwajimogu. These attempts which have been made manifest by the disdainful manner of allocation of Principal Offices in the National Assembly by the Adams Oshiomole-led APC where Ndigbo were blanked out, an action further amplified by the orchestrated attempt at excluding the South-East from contesting for any of the offices in the 9th Senate through the deliberate connivance of INEC in withholding the certificates of Return of Igbo persons who possess the capacity, qualifications and wherewithal to challenge their malicious impunity. Elected legislators like the Imo State governor Owelle Rochas Okorocha and the highest and most experienced Igbo senator in the APC, Senator Benjamin Uwajimogu have been denied their certificates of Return on unconstitutional grounds. Actions aimed at crippling the Igbo attempt at a shot in the leadership of the 9th Assembly. It is common Knowledge that despite the exclusion of the Igbo nation from the Executive arm of government, amplified by our been veiled off from the entire security apparatus of Nigeria, the post-election actions of both the APC leadership in out-zoning Ndigbo in the distribution of offices of the 9th National Assembly, and the collaborative actions of their INEC appointees have shown that there is a deliberate attempt to perpetuate the exclusion of Ndigbo from governance in the current dispensation. ALSO READ: Time up for Tinubu, says Omokri We demand the immediate release of the Certificates of Return of both Governor Ohkorocha and Senator Uwajimogu, to enable them participate in the inauguration and election of officers of the 9th Assembly. Furthermore, it is sad and disheartening that experienced legislators from the South-East like Hon. Chike Okafor and Nkiru Onyejocha are overlooked in the allocation of offices in the House of Representatives, not minding the fact that they passed through the needles eye to win their elections and the qualities they have exhibited in their previous legislative tenures. INEC should follow the institutional procedure of allowing aggrieved candidates to approach the electoral tribunals to sort out themselves and not the crude and banana republic style of withholding the certificates of return of persons already declared winners, with the intension of caging them till the inauguration of the 9th National Assembly and the election of its officers. The deliberate exclusion of Ndigbo in the recent zoning of offices in the National Assembly is unacceptable to Ndigbo. It is also a confirmation of the fact that the APC as a party does not have a place for the Igbo nation, and as such does not deserve the vote of Ndigbo. The suspected internet fraudsters Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Port Harcourts Zonal Office, have arrested fifteen suspected internet fraudsters in a late- evening raid on Blue Chip Hotels, Rumuigbo, Port Harcourt, Rivers State. A statement from the agency says the suspects, who are between the ages of 18 and 30, were nabbed while relaxing in their hotel hide out. Their arrest followed surveillance and intelligence reports on their activities and a response to the resolve of the Acting Executive Chairman of the EFCC, Mr. Ibrahim Magu to rid the nation of internet fraudsters. Among the suspects are five young ladies and ten young men. They are: Tamunotonye Tolofari; Isaac Michael; Kingdom Ekekwu; Daniel Uwalaka; Godswill Agwu; Innocent Daniel; Prince Amaya; Tiemo Ipite; Nduah Gentle; Stella Gbarakoro; Christiana Cletus; Anita Jane; Best Noble, Nduah Precious and Emeka Chibuike Emeka. Items recovered from them are laptops and phones. The suspects have made useful statements to the Commission and would soon be charged to court. Imo State governor, Rochas Okorocha, has accused Adams Oshiomhole of hunting him after he ensured his emergence as chairman of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). During a news conference on Wednesday in Abuja, Okorocha said: There is nothing personal between me and Adams Oshiomhole other than the fact that he is part and parcel of this high level of conspiracy to bring down Rochas politically. What is painful is that Adam Oshiomhole that I literarily put into this position. I never asked him (Oshiomhole) to do me any favour, all I requested was for him to do what is right. The fact that he would turn around to do this evil is totally unacceptable. Okorochas grievance with the leadership of the ruling party started in the build-up to the last general election when his anointed candidate Uche Nwosu lost the Imo State governorship candidate ticket to Senator Hope Uzodinma. Unsatisfied with the partys candidacy, Okorocha campaigned for Nwosu who defected to Action Alliance (AA) to emerge governor but lost. Okorocha, on the hand, contested the Imo West Senatorial District election on February 23 and was declared the winner of the election. But the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) refused to acknowledge his victory because the returning officer Innocent Ibeabuchi said he announced the result of the election under duress. The outgoing Imo State Governor believes the INEC chairman is up to a game with the chairman of the APC, who is being used to frustrate his effort in becoming a senator. A former Senate Leader, Senator Ali Ndume, has said that his ambition to be the Senate president of the ninth Senate is aimed at contributing to the development of the country at a higher level. Ndume said this in reaction to a plea by the the Arewa Youth Political Vanguard who begged him and Danjuma Goje not to ruin the opportunity of producing a North East Senate President with their personal aspirations. Ndume who spoke to journlists in Abuja Wednesday declared that my mission for the ninth Senate is not personal but is part of what we need to do for the progress of the polity of this country. According to him, the Senators-elect are supposed to decide who among them is to lead them and that is taken care of by Section 50(1) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria He acknowledged that he is not the most qualified candidate for the position of Senate president. He said: Let me quickly add that it is not to say that I think I am more qualified to be the Senate president. I am not better than them in any way. Most of them were born with silver spoons; I came from a very poor background. My father was not educated. I am the son of nobody that became somebody. I am a human being that has rights guaranteed by the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, which I wont compromise. Even before I threw my hat into the ring for the Senate presidents seat, my people called on me to go for the position. He attributed his vying for the coveted position to three reasons, including being eminently qualified and zoning of the position to North-east where he comes from. According to a report by Vanguard, President Muhammadu Buhari is currently meeting behind closed doors with Service Chiefs and security heads. The president is holding the meeting at the Presidential Villa, Abuja. Below are more photos of Buhari and the security chiefs during the meeting: To the most gracious, most noble and most royal Emirs and Kings of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. With total gratitude to almighty Allah, I am most humble, obedient and respectful to your esteemed, prestigious and royal personality ordained by almighty God. It is with a heavy heart and passionate, positive intentions for our culture and heritage that I would like to appeal to your better judgment and publicly pronounce my personal views which I consider a reality in our great country, here refer to as the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and to inform your majesties that it is my personal opinion and I believe I speak for other citizens of Nigeria when I say our culture and heritage is a dying tradition and it is depreciating at a pace whereby westernization has infiltrated our countrys culture and heritage making it superior to the old way of life we consider to be the only history we have in our nation. I strongly believe that we the younger generation need to pull our selves together and brain storm on how this important issue can be dealt with swiftly and amicably, under the supervision of elders like your royal selves and other leaders that share the same view. The bitter truth is that, it is very obvious that in 10 to 20 years, children that were born in this generation will have no regard for our traditional rulers and their emirates. Some of them might even go as far as constructing a theory that will depict the history of our traditional rulers as pioneers of slavery in the 19th century and even before then, when they read about how slaves were used in the old kingdoms which will motivate them to disregard everything that has to do with our historic cultural heritage. Your majesties, what I have done is create an awareness that will depict the relevance of our traditional rulers and how rich and important our culture is, so people all over the world can see it, admire and appreciate our norms, values and heritage. With all due respect to the 1976 local government reforms, there is a growing general consensus clearly stating that it was a wrong decision and judgement to weaken the authority and status of our traditional rulers and their kingdoms as low as being under state local governments. I also believe our kings and their emirates should be independent of the government and they should be allowed to stand on their own and govern their subjects in a way they see fit because at the end of the day, no one knows their subjects more than the traditional rulers and no one can control their subjects and give them justice in a manner of fair hearing and judgments more than the Emirs and kings of those emirates. Presidents, Governors, Senators, members of the House of Representatives come and go but Emirs and Kings will forever remain until the day God almighty ordains their demise. To reiterate my statements and facts, it is clear that the prestige, value and significance of our traditional Emirs in the northern part of Nigeria and the Kings in the eastern and southern kingdoms are losing their status at an alarming rate which needs to be looked into. It is my belief that the issue of granting the emirates and kingdoms in Nigeria a more productive role, most especially with regard to security should have been one of the matters that needed to be prioritized in the constitutional conference that was conducted in the year 2014 as opposed to the political situations of the six geopolitical zones of the country focusing on which part of the country gets what and who becomes what? The traditional rulers of Nigeria have been marginalized to the extent of extinction and if things continue at the pace in which our country is being governed, then, economic, security and unlawful conduct will rapidly prevail in our societies. I see no reason why our Emirs and Kings should be subject to the authority and discretion of the State and Federal Government which puts them in an unproductive role in societies and reduces their status and power so low that even a local government chairman is considered superior to them. With all due respect to the Federal and State government, it is obvious that our traditional rulers know their subjects and the terrain of their emirates and kingdoms more than anyone else in which they rule over and occupy. This demise and low standards that have been invoked on our traditional rulers has made them vulnerable and gives ample room for scrutinizing them even by the lowest of the low among the Nigerian citizens, thereby giving any individual and government in power, both the young and old the ability to treat them with utmost disrespect and threaten them to comply with their wishes due to the fact that they can depose them and at the same time impose whom they want in order to protect their interest, as the 1999 constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria gives them the authority to do so. Our culture and heritage is very important and it is one of the most important things that needs to be preserved because history will judge us as the generation that contributed to its demise. Our traditional emirates and kingdoms should be autonomous and independent from both the Federal and State government. They should play a major role in the administration of the country on both State and Federal level, working hand in hand with government as opposed to just playing a supervisory role in our society. The emirates and kingdoms need to move at a pace of which modernization and the way time changes which will synchronize the efforts of running the affairs of the country swiftly and more effectively with precise and specific ideologies. Last but not the least, the northern Emirs, Southern and eastern kings should encourage their local counsel members and personal servants to acquire a certain degree of education and literacy in order for their subject to keep up with the rapid change in globalization and modernization. There is a threat that happens to be emerging from underneath the surface. It also happens to be inevitable and imminent and if things continue the way they are, then Im sorry to say that in a decade or two, maybe even less, a government might emerge into power that will dissolve and reform all our northern Emirs and southern kings to local council Chiefs, leaving only His Eminence, the Sultan of Sokoto and the President of the Christian Association of Nigeria(CAN) with royal status in Nigeria, knowing very well that if they dare try to reform those two institutions of religious significance, then chaos and anarchy will be the case. Violence and bloodshed will be unavoidable and absolutely destructive to the nations peace and unity. May Allah SWA/God Almighty continue to bless,guide and protect us with his infinite wisdom and mercy. Amin Ya Rahman. Disclaimer: As an editorial policy, Breaking Times neither oppose nor endorse any opinion and contribution expressed by our writers and contributors. Contributions are strictly that of the writers only and do not represent the opinions of Breaking Times. Op-Ed Contribution: Our platform is for you. Want to submit an Op-Ed? If yes, kindly send your article and short biography to youreport@thebreakingtimes.com Flooding has, in the last few years, wreaked havoc on the country. This year may not be different. The Federal Government has given insights into how to address the problem. It has become an annual ritual for the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) to roll out flood forecast for the country every year. The forecast provides information that enables states and some Nigerians living in flood plains to brace up for likely flooding. The Annual Flood Outlook (AFO) was initiated in 2013 by the Federal Government following the 2012 flood disaster that wreaked havoc in the country, destroying thousands of lives and properties worth millions. Since 2013, NIHSA has continually issued flood warnings and alerts to states. The country has been at the receiving end of excess water from neighbouring countries because of River Niger which traverses about seven countries and River Benue, both passing through Nigeria. However, despite their flood forecasts and alert, the country has continuously lost lives and properties to flood every year. This is largely due to noncompliance with the flood alert and warnings of the agency as well as bad environmental practices by Nigerians. For example, in 2018, about 441,251 people were affected by flood in about 50 Local Government Areas, according to the National Emergency Management Agency. About 192 people sustained injuries as a result of the flood with a total of 108 lives lost to the disaster. With Kogi (118,199), Kebbi (94,991), Anambra (64,331) and Niger state (51,719) most people affected. This year, the agency has again issued another alert for states and Nigerians, saying that there is a probability that a total of 600 Local Government Areas will witness flooding when the rainy season begins in full. The local government include: Katsina Musawa; Kebbi Dandi, Kalgo, Koko/Besse, Suru, Aliero, Argungu, Augie, Bagudo, BirninKebbi, Bunza, Ngaski, Shanga; Niger Borgu, Agwara, Magama, Lapai, Mokwa, Shiroro, Wushishi, Bida, Edati, Gbako, Mashegu, Munya; Sokoto Sabon Birni, Tambuwal, Wurno,Yabo, Gwadabawa, Goronyo, Isa, Kware, Rabah, Shagari Bodinga, Tureta, Silame, DangeShuni, Wurno, Yabo, Wamako; Zamfara Maru, Talata-Mafara, Zurmi, Birnin-Magaji/ Kiyawa, Bakura, Bungudu Shinkafi, Gusau, KauraNamoda, Maradun; Kaduna Kauru, Soba, Chikun, Igabi, Kaduna South. Others are: Kwara Asa, Ilorin West, Oyun, Pategi; Adamawa Demsa, Fufore, Gombi, Numan, Shelleng, Yola North, Yola South; Gombe Balanga, Balanga, Dukku, Funakaye, Gombe, Kwami, Nafada; Taraba Ardo-Kola, Karim Lamido, Jalingo, Lau, Ibi; Nasarawa Keffi, NassarawaEggon, Keana, Doma, Toto, Nassarawa; Benue Tarka, Buruku, Guma, Agatu, Tarka; Delta Aniocha North, Bomadi, Ndokwa East, Ndokwa West, Oshimili North, Oshimili South, Patani, Ughelli South; Rivers Abua/Odual, Ahoada East, Ahoada West, Akuku-Toru, Andoni, Asari-Toru, Bonny, Gokana, Ogu/Bolo, Okrika, Opobo/Nkoro, Port-Harcourt; Anambra Anaocha, Awka South, Dunukofia, Njikoka, Ogbaru, Orumba North, Oyi; Imo Aboh-Mbaise, Ezinihite, Ideato South, Ideato North, Ihitte/Uboma, Isiala Mbaitoli, Isu, Mbaitoli, Nkwerre, Obowo, Okigwe, Orlu, Owerri Municipal, Owerri North, Owerri West, Unuimo; Cross River Akpabuyo, Bakasi, Biase, Calabar, Ikom, Obubra, and Yalla. The agency classified the countrys flood scenarios for this year into three categories of vulnerability. The three categories of vulnerability include the highly probable flood risk areas which are to be experienced in 74 LGAs; probable flood risk areas to be experienced in 279 LGAs, and low flood risk areas to be experienced in 421 LGAs, making a total of 600 LGAs. In its 2019 Annual Flood Outlook, which was unveiled in Abuja by the Minister of Water Resources, Suleiman Adamu, on Tuesday, warned that the disaster would emanate from either excessive rainfall or release of water from countries around Rivers Niger and Benue. It said the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) are expected to experience different levels of flooding. NIHSAs Director-General, Clement Nze, who broke the news at the unveiling of the AFO report in Abuja, the nations capital, said some states may have severe flooding due to a rise in the water levels of Rivers Niger and Benue. Nze also said major cities, like Lagos, Port Harcourt, Yenagoa, Benin, Makurdi, Kaduna, Sokoto and Ibadan, would witness urban flooding as a result of heavy rainfalls this year. He said: The three categories of vulnerability include the highly probable flood risk areas to be experienced in 74 LGAs; probable flood risk areas to be experienced in 279 LGAs, and low flood risk areas to be experienced in 421 LGAs. All the 36 states of the federation including the Federal Capital Territory are expected to experience different levels of flooding. I can say that we have almost 600 local government areas in Nigeria that could be under the threat of floods in 2019, going by our predictions. No person should build structures within the flood plains. People should clean their drainages. States and local government areas are encouraged to desilt river channels and canals and construct/create a buffer (or detention basins) in their constituencies to collect run-off waters. What is left for Nigeria and stakeholders is to take very seriously our predictions to avert it (urban flooding). He stated that the predicted probable flood area coverage in 2019 is expected to be lower than that of 2018. The DG stated that river flooding was expected in the Niger, Benue, Sokoto-Rima, Anambra, Imo, Cross River, Niger Delta, Komadougu-Yobe and Ogun-Osun River Basins. Nze said coastal flooding was likely in Bayelsa, Rivers, Delta, Ondo and Lagos states due to the rise in sea level and tidal surge. River flooding is expected in Niger, Benue, SokotoRima, Anambra-Imo, Cross River, Niger Delta, Komadougu-Yobe and Ogun-Osun River basins, while coastal flooding is likely in Bayelsa, Rivers, Delta, Ondo and Lagos states due to a rise in sea level and tidal surge. Flash and urban flooding are forecasted to occur in Ibadan, Lagos, Port Harcourt, Sokoto, Kaduna, Yola, Maiduguri, Makurdi, Hadejia and other major cities due to poor drainage systems, he added. The agency said that since it began its prediction in 2013, there had been a decrease in the flood disaster. For example, the agency said that in 2013, it recorded 70 per cent success in its prediction. According to NIHSA, between 2014, 2015, 2016 and 2017, it recorded 63 per cent, 55 per cent, 53 per cent and 53 per cent successes, adding that its prediction in 2018 recorded 53 per cent success. It attributed the fall in the degree of manifestation of flood disaster from 2013 to 2018 to positive response measures that were put in place by the government, stakeholders and the citizens. In its recommendations, the NIHSA stated that to mitigate the impact of flooding, the country should build flood-resilient communities, adding that there was a need to close the knowledge gap around the issue of floods among the decision and policymakers and planners at the national and local levels. The agency called for improved synergy among all the government agencies whose activities were related to flooding prevention and/or mitigation, as well as the prompt sensitisation of the public on the information contained in the Annual Flood Outlook as a measure for flood early warning and flood disaster prevention. The agency also recommended the need to educate citizens to imbibe attitudinal change towards warnings for flood prevention by government agencies and desist from unethical traditional culture and beliefs. It called for the removal of refuse, weeds, water hyacinths and floats from water channels and on all avenues for river run-offs so as to allow free flow of floodwaters. According to the agency, this exercise is to be undertaken down to grassroots levels including local government areas. The agency also called for the relocation of people living along the water-ways and those that are having socio-economic activities on the flood plains, by the Federal, State and Local Governments. It encouraged States and Local Governments to desilt river channels and canals and to construct/create a buffer (or detention basins) in their respective constituencies to collects runoff waters. The agency called for the modification of settlements to withstand floods by putting up flood barriers. In his address, Adamu stated that the 2019 flood outlook was built on the achievements of the six previous forecasts by the NIHSA. He said the outcome of forecasts by NIHSA has led to a progressive reduction in the incidences of flood damage in the country through the heeding of warnings by Nigerians to the alert. He said the government must ensure the control of the flow of water to make it less destructive or totally inconsequential for socio-economic development. The minister added that the government is working with countries around Rivers Niger and Benue and Lake Chad to control the release of water from their dams. The outcome of these forecasts have been the progressive reduction in the incidences of flood damage, not necessarily as a result of reduced flooding, but as a consequence of the timely heeding of the warnings contained therein, by communities, agencies and government at various levels. It is envisioned that with adequate funding and establishment of more hydrological stations on our rivers and streams, we will be able to provide more timely and possibly, daily forecasts as well as establish flood alarm systems at high risk and vulnerable areas associated with flood and other extremes of climate. We have also been working in partnership with the riparian countries of the Rivers Niger and Benue, as well as the Lake Chad Basin, to control the releases from dams in such a way not to cause havoc in Nigeria, he added. The minister said warnings pertaining to flooding should be taken seriously, noting that such warnings could lead to catastrophic consequences if ignored. The 2019 AFO serves as an early warning to people and communities located in and near flood plains and other vulnerable areas to put in place the necessary actions that will ameliorate the adverse effects of the flood to lives and properties. Therefore, the information contained in it is for all Nigerians and must be communicated in good time in order to save lives and properties from the probable floods that may occur. Let me alert Nigerians about the dangers inherent in not taking seriously the warnings and advice in such alerts and other similar forecasts. To do so, will be tantamount to negligence, a complacency that might eventually lead to catastrophic consequences, he stated. Adamu, however, suggested that more funds should be provided to enable the ministry, and by extension, the agency intensify its campaign across the country. With adequate funding and establishment of more hydrological monitoring stations of our rivers and streams, we will be able to provide timely daily forecasts as well as establish flood alarm systems at high risk and vulnerable areas, he said. The Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Comfort Ekaro, said the 2019 AFO provides accurate information on the condition and trend of flood occurrences in the country. According to her, this is required for economic and social development and for maintaining environmental quality. She said the release of the AFO would provide ample opportunity for enlightenment campaigns in the media for better preparedness on flood mitigation, control and management in flood risks location across the country. We commend NIHSA, which is the nodal agency in the area of flood forecasting and alert system for flood management in the country. Nonetheless, it is still very useful and necessary to use this platform to alert the nation on what to still expect in terms of likely flooding extent and severity notwithstanding a number of flash flooding that has already been recorded in different parts of the country due to either anthropogenic activities or high rainfall intensity of long duration, she added. The Nation Share this: AI is perhaps the most disruptive technology since electricity. It will transform the world, impacting everyone, and we are just at the beginning of its application, said Jordan Jacobs, Managing Partner, Radical Ventures. Toronto and Canada have led the world in developing AI that is disrupting industries from healthcare to finance to smart cities and everything in between. We are now seeing an explosion of AI startups in Toronto, across Canada and globally. Radical aims to back the most ambitious founders seeking to make a positive impact on the world. Jacobs previously co-founded and was co-CEO of Layer 6, a world-leading AI company that deployed a proprietary deep learning prediction engine for banks. Layer 6 was acquired 15 months after launch in January 2018 by TD Bank Group where Jacobs became SVP and Chief AI Officer (Business & Strategy). Benji Sucher, former COO of Layer 6, is also a co-founder at Radical and a GP of the new fund. In 2017 Jacobs and Layer 6 co-founder Tomi Poutanen co-founded the Vector Institute for Artificial Intelligence along with 2019 Turing Award winner Geoffrey Hinton (often called the godfather of AI), a core group of machine learning professors at The University of Toronto, and former TD Bank CEO Ed Clark (now Chairman of the Vector Institute). Vector has quickly grown to become one of the worlds top AI research institutions, and helps educate the next generation of AI leaders. Clark is joining Radical as a Partner. Long-time McKinsey & Company Global Managing Director Dominic Barton also joins Radical as Senior Advisor. Clark and Barton will help portfolio companies by providing mentoring and advice and access to their extensive global networks. Poutanen and Layer 6 co-founder and Head of AI, Maks Volkovs, are also Advisors to Radical Fund II. Salim Teja, former President, Venture Services of MaRS Discovery District in Toronto, also joins Radical as Partner and General Manager. Tejas responsibilities will include overseeing Radicals Impact Team, designed to help portfolio companies accelerate their global growth. Whats amazing is that if you go to Silicon Valley, NYC, or even China, the first thing they talk about is Canada being a world leader in AI. Were still not as good at promoting ourselves outside the tech community to the rest of the country as we should be, Jacobs told BetaKit in an interview last year. Its rare that time and place coincide to let you build the future, but thats exactly whats happening right now in Canada with AI. Part of the mission for Vector was to get Canadian companies more attuned to the opportunities AI provides them, and attract more companies to build AI labs and have more companies started by grads stay here, Jacobs said at the time. We see this as another way to do that, and its putting a world-leading suite of technology we built and a world-leading team inside a global company that happens to be Canadian. Itll provide a lot of opportunities to hire people graduating out of those programs. Defensive: OTPP has over 100 portfolio companies and they want to understand how disruptive technology will impact them. This is part of Teachers' rigorous risk management approach. Offensive: OTPP is seeking high risk-adjusted returns and this platform will allow them to capitalize on new opportunities in disruptive technologies that will shape the world for years to come. Access to innovative partnerships: The platform will alow OTPP to build on its existing partnerhips but also to build new partnerships with technology leaders. Radical Ventures, a Canadian venture capital firm focused on artificial intelligence (AI), has launched a new fund with a target of about $470 million (US$350 million). Cornerstone LPs include Canada Pension Plan Investment Board (CPPIB), the Public Sector Pension Investment Board (PSP Investments), TD Bank Group and Wittington Investments, Limited:So, Jordan Jacobs, the former co-founder of the Vector Institute and Layer 6 is leaving his position at TD Bank to focus on managing his venture capital firm, Radical Ventures.In another article , Jacobs summed it up well, stating this:And this:Now, I don't know how much PSP and CPPIB are each investing in Radical Ventures but I assume it's at least $100 million each and perhaps more since they are the big funds of the four cornerstone LPs taking part in this new fund.AI is an important theme at CPPIB and PSP. In April 2017, D-Wave, a developer of quantum computing systems and software, secured $50 million bridge financing of convertible notes with $30 million disbursed at closing and a conditional commitment for $20 million from PSP Investments. It raised that additional $20 million from PSP in February 2018.In 2017, CPPIB signed a $1.1-billion deal to acquire a 30-per-cent stake in BGL Group, a digital distributor of insurance and financial services.In December, reported CPPIB planned to invest up to $1 billion in North American and European venture capital funds.Both CPPIB and PSP are investing in AI through public and private markets and this new venture fits perfectly into what Mark Machin calls the age of disruption Disruption is everywhere, in every field, and it's better to stay on top of it, leveraging off these strategic relationships, than risk being left behind.A couple of weeks ago, I interviewed OTPP's CIO Ziad Hindo on Teachers' Innovation Platform . Ziad told me "disruptive technology is everywhere" and OTPP built this innovation platform for three main reasons:On that third point, he mentioned OTPP's deal with Verily , an Alphabet (Google) company, on a $1 billion investment round led by Silver Lake, one of the best private equity firms in the world focusing on technology.This tells me Canada's large pension funds are very much aware of how disruptive technology poses risks and opportunities for their portfolios and they want to manage these risks as best as possible, leveraging off internal and external expertise, and by investing in emerging technologies The founders of Radical Ventures are world-class experts in AI and they will seek to invest in early-stage and growth investments in mostly Canadian companies developing AI products or applying AI to create a competitive advantage in large markets.Ed Clark is a partner, which tells me he has the utmost confidence in this new venture and he likely played a role in bringing PSP and CPPIB to the table (Mr. Clark is the father of IMCO's CEO Bert Clark and pretty much knows the who's who on Bay Street and across Canada).Lastly, I note that Ontario's government slashed the funding to startup and innovation programs so this new venture couldn't come at a better time. Canada needs to invest in innovation or we risk exacerbating the existing productivity gap with the US and other countries.Below, Jordan Jacobs, co-founder and CEO at Radical Ventures, joins BNN Bloomberg to talk about the new US$350-million AI-focused venture fund he just launched. The purpose of the fund is to provide AI-focused startups in Canada with capital and it has received support from major institutions including CPPIB, TD and the Weston family.And Mark Machin, President and CEO of CPPIB, talks about disruptive innovation at the Canadian Club (November 2018). Great speech, he really delves into the major trends disrupting our economies and how CPPIB is investing to capitalize on these changing trends. " " President Donald Trump is seen with Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (L), and Sen. Roy Blunt (R-MO) at a Senate Republican weekly policy luncheon at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C. Alex Wong/Getty Images In American politics, the next crisis is never far away. Whether it's a big-headline scandal or a routine backroom arm-twisting, politics practically can't exist without some kind of daily drama. Heck, "The West Wing" and "House of Cards" taught us that. The most Beltway-shaking of all these crises is the "constitutional crisis," an inexact term that seems to be applied with all the discretion of a pitch for campaign contributions. "There is hardly a disagreement in American law, however slight," law professors Sanford Levinson and Jack Balkin wrote nearly 10 years ago in the University of Pennsylvania Law Review, "that someone will not label a 'constitutional crisis.'" Advertisement Checks and Balances The last time we were talking about a constitutional crisis was when Chairman Jerrold Nadler (D-N.Y.) and the House Judiciary Committee decided to hold Attorney General William Barr in contempt of Congress in June 2019, for his failure to produce documents pertaining to special counsel Robert Mueller's nearly two-year investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election. President Donald Trump answered by declaring the un-redacted portions of the report off-limits under executive privilege. Thus, Nadler sounded the alarm. Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) backed him up. "We've talked for a long time about approaching a constitutional crisis. We are now in it," Nadler said on May 8, 2019. "[The executive branch is] uniformly rejecting subpoenas from Congress. This means that they have decided to oppose the role of Congress as a coordinate branch of government representing the American people." The showdown with Trump revolved around Congress' power of oversight, derived from the "legislative Powers" clause in Article I of the Constitution. From the House website: Congressional investigations not only help legislators make better policy decisions, but they are central to the system of checks and balances. Investigatory hearings can uncover presidential abuses of power and corruption, such as the Teapot Dome scandal in the 1920s or Watergate in the 1970s. This time the constitutional crisis also is regarding congressional oversight, but legal scholars are suggesting this instance it could be different. It's also about impeachment. And it revolves around a letter White House Counsel Pat Cipollone sent to congressional Democrats Oct. 8. The letter states the Trump administration won't cooperate in the ongoing impeachment inquiry, and accuses the inquiry of being invalid and unconstitutional. The letter also states that "President Trump cannot permit his Administration to participate in this partisan inquiry under these circumstances." The letter reads as if Trump's attorney is essentially saying the idea of checks and balances doesn't pertain to his administration. If that's the case, this would technically be a breakdown of the U.S. structure of government as written in the Constitution. Is that a constitutional crisis? Advertisement What a Constitutional Crisis Looks Like In their 2009 paper, Levinson and Balkin defined the term like this: A constitutional crisis ... is a potentially decisive turning point in the direction of the constitutional order, a moment at which the order threatens to break down, just as the body does in a medical crisis. The authors offer three types of crises: When leaders claim the right to suspend the Constitution, or parts of it, to preserve social order. When leaders comply with the Constitution, but the political crisis remains or leads to disaster. When leaders disagree over what the Constitution means and who has specific powers. Two political science professors offer their own definition of a "Constitutional crisis" in a post on the site fivethirtyeight.com. They suggest that crises arise ... When the Constitution doesn't spell out its intention; When it does but it's unclear; When what the Constitution states is not politically feasible; Or when governmental institutions and how they're set up under the Constitution fail to work together and a power struggle ensues. The last one might hit closest to the current situation in the United States. Advertisement Is This a Crisis or Just D.C. Drama? Constitutional crises may seem cheap the Teapot Dome scandal; Watergate and the impeachment hearings of President Richard Nixon; the disputed 2000 presidential election; the impeachment of President Bill Clinton; congressional blocking of a Supreme Court nominee; even Trump's appropriation of money to build a border wall all have been slapped with the term but true crises regarding the U.S. Constitution are probably not as common as all that drama may make them seem. "People generally use the term 'constitutional crisis' to describe periods when institutions of government are clearly in conflict. But the mere existence of conflict, even profound conflict, cannot be the definition of crisis," Levinson and Malik wrote. "Government institutions are always in conflict." Noah Feldman, a Felix Frankfurter Professor of Law at Harvard Law School, wrote in an op-ed for The New York Times that President Trump's refusal to respond to the House impeachment satisfies the two conditions for a constitutional crisis because the Constitution doesn't spell out how to proceed when "the House tries to exercise its constitutional power of oversight to investigate the president and the president flatly rejects the House's constitutional authority." Professor Melissa Murray of New York University law school told The Washington Post "If Congress cannot exercise its power of oversight or its power of impeachment, it essentially means the president doesn't have to answer to anyone but the political process, which only comes around every four years. And that essentially makes the president a king." Whatever it is whether it's Washington as usual, impeachment, threats of the 25th Amendment, or a disagreement that endangers the very document that upholds our democracy the drama never ceases. That's American politics. NOW THAT'S INTERESTING What may be crisis to one may just be an insidious fraying around the edges to others. In a 2017 paper, Yale Law's Balkin defines something he calls "constitutional rot" as "a process of decay in the features of our system of government that maintain it as a healthy democratic republic." Examples (in his words): "When politicians disregard norms of fair political competition, undermine public trust, and repeatedly overreach by using constitutional hardball to rig the system in their favor and keep themselves (or their allies) in power, they cause the system of democratic (and republican) constitutionalism to decay." Advertisement Originally Published: May 9, 2019 " " A patrol officer from West Valley City, Utah, shows off his body camera on the first day of use. The city's police department issued 190 Taser Axon Flex body cameras for all of its sworn officers to wear starting March 2, 2015. George Frey/Getty Images In a small city about 50 miles (80 kilometers) east of Los Angeles, a criminologist and a police chief conducted a study on the effects of body cameras on policing [source: Police Foundation]. For all of 2012, the Rialto, California, police department put body cameras on half its uniformed patrol officers at a time and tracked two variables: incidents involving police use of force and civilian complaints against officers [source: Farrar and Ariel]. The results of the experiment raised eyebrows. When officers wore the cameras, they used force half as often. The complaints filed against all officers that year were too few to draw statistically meaningful conclusions, but compared with (pre-camera) 2011, there was a reduction of about 90 percent [source: Farrar and Ariel]. Advertisement In 2013, Rialto became the first U.S. police department to implement body cameras force-wide [source: Demetrius]. As of 2015, about 5,000 U.S. police departments, out of 18,000 total, use body cameras to some extent [source: Wagstaff]. It's not revolutionary: Britain, an early adopter, started trying out body cameras in 2005 and has been expanding their use ever since [sources: BBC News, Mims]. Manufacturer Vievu claims its cameras are recording police work in 16 countries. The drive for widespread implementation in U.S. police forces began in earnest after a fatal police shooting in August 2014 [source: Elinson and Frosch]. Ferguson, Missouri, police officer Darren Wilson shot Michael Brown, an unarmed teenager, at least six times. Witnesses told a different story from what the officer reported, and a grand jury decided there was not enough evidence to charge the officer with any crime [source: Buchanan et al.]. A string of equally controversial deaths at the hands of police quickly gained national attention, and interest in body cameras, widely equated with increased accountability, soared [sources: Elinson and Frosch, Stanley]. Police body cameras are specialized video recorders designed to document what frontline officers see in the line of duty. Ideally, they make everyone safer, civilians and police alike. At the very least, they offer some degree of clarity when police interactions with civilians go bad. " " Firemen over the Cuyahoga River spray water on the tug Arizona while the river burns. Bettmann/Contributor/Getty On June 22, 1969, the Cuyahoga River caught fire. But it wasn't the first time the waterway near Cleveland, Ohio, burned. The river was so polluted that industrial waste and oil-soaked debris atop its surface caught fire so regularly, this particularly blaze didn't even raise eyebrows among locals. But it did catch the attention of reporters at Time magazine, who published photos of the burning river and claimed it was so polluted it "oozes rather than flows." Time's story on the burning Cuyahoga River sparked outrage among Americans, and brought national attention to the country's need to clean up its waterways and protect the environment. It eventually helped lead to changes like the Clean Water Act and the Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement. Advertisement The Cuyahoga article was even instrumental in President Richard Nixon forming the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in 1970. Its mission then and now is to "protect human health by safeguarding the air we breathe, water we drink and land on which we live." But now the EPA faces an uncertain future with the threat of massive budget cuts, decreases in research funding and rollbacks of Obama-era environmental regulations, including those to America's waterways, streams and wetlands. Now, nearly 50 years after the EPA was created, there's serious talk about decimating it. So has the environment improved since the creation of the EPA? Between 1971 and 1977 the newly formed agency hired freelance photographers to document problems for a series titled Documerica Project, and in 2011 the National Archives digitized more than 15,000 of the images. Take a look at some here to see how the environment looked before the EPA stepped in to clean it up. " " Smoke pours from massive smokestacks where discarded auto batteries are burned. Houston, 1972 Marc St. Gil/National Archives DOCUMERICA " " Many locals were opposed to stripping the land in Southeastern Ohio, but afraid to demand reform because most also worked for the coal companies. Hendrysburg, Ohio, 1973 Erik Calonius/National Archives DOCUMERICA " " A bumper sticker on a car parked in a lot on West Street near the newly constructed World Trade Center jokes about how to bring change. New York City, 1973 Wil Blanche/National Archives DOCUMERICA " " Children play in front of their home, unaware that a smelter stack is emitting arsenic and lead in nearby Tacoma. Ruston, Washington, 1972 Gene Daniels/National Archives DOCUMERICA " " An illegal dumping area off the New Jersey Turnpike is an eyesore, as Manhattan and the Hudson River sit just beyond. 1973 Gary Miller/National Archives DOCUMERICA " " Clark Avenue and Clark Avenue Bridge are obscured by smoke from heavy industry. Cleveland, Ohio, 1973 Frank Aleksandrowicz/National Archives DOCUMERICA " " The Atlas Chemical Company stacks pump smoke across farmland, covering everything in black soot. Marshall, Texas, 1972 Marc St. Gil/National Archives DOCUMERICA " " Trash and old tires litter the shores of Baltimore Harbor. 1973 Jim Pickerell/National Archives DOCUMERICA Advertisement Originally Published: Mar 13, 2017 THE Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) is against the P386 wage hike petition of the Trade Union Congress of the Philippines (TUCP), making the minimum wage to P773 per day.In a statement, the THE Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) is against the P386 wage hike petition of the Trade Union Congress of the Philippines (TUCP), making the minimum wage to P773 per day. In a statement, the chamber expressed that the current business environment is not viable for the proposed wage hike. "Increasing the cost structure with a depressed market will eventually force businesses to automate, import cheaper materials, or will discourage entrepreneurs to reinvest, worse, will sell out to exit from business. Many multinational corporations had relocated to our neighboring countries," the CCCI warned. The TUCPs wage hike petition of P386 for minimum wage earners in the private sector would make the minimum wage at P773 per day. It filed the petition with the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board in Central Visayas for the increase, citing concerns on the growing health problems that reportedly stemmed from nutritionally-deficient meals. "Forcing workers and their families to subsist on nutritionally-deficient meals for a long period will definitely have bigger repercussions to business, bigger costs to the government and the economy if continuously ignored," the TUCP said in a statement. With this, CCCI stressed the country's low competitivesness compared to other Asean neighbors. "Ease as well as cost of doing business are not in our favor versus our counterparts in the Asean countries. We are ranking lower in terms of competitiveness. Competitiveness is vital to survive against fierce global competition," the chamber said. "In as much as business owners want to give their employees higher take-home pays, it is important to understand that business has never been more challenged than today and is likewise laboring to survive, grow and compete in this time of volatile, uncertain, complex and ambiguous business environment," it added. However, CCCI also encouraged their member companies to put the well-being of their employees part of their companys mission statement. "Its not all about take home pay but making the human capital become competent and better in a holistic sense," it said. Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo presenting the ouster matrix MANILA, Philippines The Department of Justice (DOJ) has vowed to look into the new matrix presented by Malacanang which showed that opposition members have been conspiring with other organizations to discredit the government of President Rodrigo Duterte and boost the candidacy of opposition bets in the May 13 elections. Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra told reporters on Wednesday they will study the diagram and check if there is enough factual basis in Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelos story on individuals supposedly involved in a plot to oust Duterte. I have not seen this new ouster matrix, he said. In any event, the DOJ will study this further to determine if there is enough factual basis to refer this new matrix to the NBI for investigation, he added. Panelo on Wednesday presented a new matrix which tagged the Liberal Party, the yellows, Magdalo group, some media outfits and several other individuals to destabilize the government. READ: Palace shows new diagram on Magdalo, Liberal party conspiracy to oust Duterte The President himself has received information, intelligence information that has been validated and appears to show that there is a deliberate attempt to discredit this administration, as well as to boost the candidacies of the oppositions senatorial candidates, he said. The presidential spokesman did not say where the intelligence information came from but only assured media it has been vetted. Panelo also said at Wednesdays briefing that it was up to the DOJ to decide on whether or not to press charges against those accused of plotting Dutertes ouster. Guevarra said they will determine the matter before referring this to a concerned agency for further investigation. The post DOJ to look into Malacanangs new oust Duterte matrix appeared first on UNTV News. (UPDATED) - A judge was killed Thursday, May 9, in another shooting incident in Zamboanga del Norte.Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 11 Judge Reymar Lacaya, 62, was shot dead at around 3 p.m. Thursday (UPDATED) - A judge was killed Thursday, May 9, in another shooting incident in Zamboanga del Norte. Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 11 Judge Reymar Lacaya, 62, was shot dead at around 3 p.m. Thursday at the parking area of the RTC in Liloy town, Police Regional Office-Zamboanga Peninsula information officer Helen Galvez said. Liloy, a third-class town in Zamboanga del Norte, was once a barangay of Sindangan. It was inaugurated as a municipality in 1951. Galvez said initial investigation showed that Lacaya was alone at the RTC parking area when he was shot by an unidentified assailant. Lacaya died on the way to the Liloy District Hospital. Galvez said they learned that Lacaya was transferred to Liloy from Sindangan just three months ago. In a statement, Supreme Court Chief Justice Lucas Bersamin and the entire judiciary condemned "in the strongest possible terms" the killing of Lacaya. Bersamin urged authorities to exert their best efforts in immediately apprehending those responsible for Lacayas death. CJ Bersamin and the entire Judiciary condemn in the strongest possible terms the killing of Sindangan, Zamboanga del Norte RTC Br. 11 Judge Reymar L. Lacaya; urge authorities to exert their best efforts for the immediate apprehension of those responsible for Judge Lacayas death Supreme Court PIO (@SCPh_PIO) May 9, 2019 Lacaya was killed just five days after Councilor Edgardo Vinas, Liga ng mga Barangay president in Sindangan, was gunned down. (MVI/Bong Garcia/SunStar Philippines) Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Geng Shuang's Regular Press Conference on May 9, 2019 2019/05/09 Q: Huawei executive Meng Wanzhou reportedly called for the suspension of her extradition process. Will the Meng Wanzhou case be discussed during the China-US trade talks in Washington this week? China's position on the Meng Wanzhou case is clear-cut and firm. The US and Canada abused their bilateral extradition treaty and took compulsive measures against a Chinese citizen without cause. This is a serious political incident that grossly violates the legitimate rights and interests of the Chinese citizen. Once again we urge the US to immediately withdraw the arrest warrant and extradition request for Ms Meng. We urge the Canadian side to take China's solemn position seriously, release Ms Meng immediately and ensure that she returns to China safe and sound. As I understand, Huawei has released a statement on the latest developments. Regarding your question on whether this will be discussed during the trade talks, I'm not aware of that. Q: Britain's media regulator is investigating state television CCTV for airing the confession of the British businessman Peter Humphrey. Do you have any comment on this issue? A: I'd refer you to the relevant media for this question. Here's what I can tell you. First, news agencies are bridges facilitating mutual understanding, friendship and cooperation. We hope the UK will render support and convenience to foreign media in carrying out their work in the country. Second, regarding the trial then of the Peter Humphrey case and ensuing developments, relevant information is available online. Q: We know from media reports that the EU published its 2018 annual reports on Hong Kong and Macao on May 8 commenting on the two region's affairs. I wonder what is your response to that? A: There's no denying that the "one country, two systems" policy has been successfully implemented in Hong Kong and Macao since their return to the motherland. The two regions enjoy prosperity and stability, and residents there have been guaranteed by law with an unprecedented level of democratic rights and various freedoms, including freedom of speech, freedom of the press and freedom of association. We deplore and resolutely object the EU reports for the unwarranted comments on the affairs of Hong Kong and Macao and wanton criticisms on the "one country, two systems" practice in the two regions under the pretext of human rights and freedom, which constitute a gross interference in China's internal affairs and the affairs of the SARs. We have repeatedly made clear our opposition to the EU's releasing of reports on Hong Kong and Macao, and we demand it to stop this wrong practice. Q: It has been reported that US Secretary Pompeo said during a visit to the UK on the 8th that the Belt and Road Initiative proposed by China violates the sovereignty of nations and that the US urges the UK to remain vigilant and voice its opposition. Do you have a comment? A: Some in the US have been keeping up a barrage of irresponsible comments against the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), which reached a crescendo on the eve of the second Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation (BRF). But what was the result? More than 6,000 delegates from 150 countries and 92 international organizations attended the forum, and that included more than 50 delegates from the US. This is the international community taking actual actions to cast a vote of confidence and support in the initiative and the best response to the words and actions of the US. In the past few days, we have noticed that a few individuals in the US seem to be singing the same old tune, seeking to attack and smear the BRI. They are not fed up with saying it; we are fed up with hearing it. I would like to remind them once again not to overestimate the effects of their rumors or underestimate the informed judgment of others. They can go on talking the talk if they so wish, but we will continue walking the walk. The world will tell plainly who is stirring up trouble and who is trying to make a difference. Q: President Xi last night spoke with the Saudi King Salman on the phone. I've already seen the statement. Was the timing chosen intentionally? Because yesterday there was an announcement from Iran about the nuclear program. In the statement there is no direct mention of Iran. Are you able to tell us whether President Xi and King Salman discussed the Iran issue? A: Like you said, a detailed press release on President Xi's phone call with King Salman is available online. I have nothing to update you at the moment. I'd like to stress that China and Saudi Arabia are comprehensive strategic partners. We will work with the Saudi side to step up practical cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative and bring more benefits to our countries and peoples. Q: The US Navy said in a statement today that the US, Japan, India and the Philippines conducted a joint exercise in the South China Sea from May 2 to 8. According to the Japanese side, the exercise was aimed to advance cooperation in the Indo-Pacific. Do you have any comment on that? A: I'm not aware of what you said. I'll need to check on it. I'd like to emphasize that as a principle, relevant countries' policies on and actions in a region should be serving, instead of undermining, the region's peace, stability and development. Q: According to reports, in the 67th Extraordinary Session of the IGAD Council of Ministers held on May 8, it was agreed that the pre-transitional period for South Sudan, which was set to end on May 12, would be extended by six months. I wonder what is your comment? A: China commends the IGAD's active mediation to bring all parties in South Sudan to reach an important agreement on extending the pre-transitional period. It will help all parties in South Sudan to conduct in-depth consultation and dialogue and fully implement the Comprehensive Peace Agreement signed at the end of 2018. China will continue to work with the international community to help advance the peace process and play a constructive role in restoring peace and stability in South Sudan. Q: Could you confirm that the Chinese trade delegation will visit the US today as scheduled? A:Yes, they leave Beijing today for the consultations. Q: What is China's attitude to the trade talks with the US? Do you have any comment on the US raising tariffs on some Chinese goods to 25%? A: Yesterday the spokesperson of the Ministry of Commerce made comments on this and the Commerce Ministry is holding a press conference this afternoon. I believe relevant information will be easily accessible. Q: The trade talks to be held between China and the US have captured global attention. There would be wide disappointment if the talks turned out fruitless. What does China expect from the talks? A: I have been taking similar questions these past few days and the answer could be repeated here. We hope the US can work with China to meet each other halfway, accommodate each other's legitimate concerns and strive for a mutually beneficial agreement on the basis of mutual respect and equality. It will serve the interests of both China and the US and is the shared expectation of the international community. Senator Panfilo Lacson (left), Bikoy (upper right), Peter Joemel Advincula (lower right) MANILA, Philippines Senator Panfilo Lacson revealed on Thursday that Peter Joemel Advincula, the man who claimed to be Bikoy in the controversial video series, was supported by a number of Philippine National Police (PNP) officials in 2016 when he first linked some former officials of the Aquino administration to the narcotics trade. Lacson said this during a Senate press briefing following the revelation of Senate President Vicente Sotto III on Advinculas allegedly recycled drug allegations. READ: Sotto reveals similarities in Bikoys claims in 2016, 2019 Sotto said on Wednesday that Advincula reached out to his office in 2016 to give information against former President Benigno Aquino III and his then cabinet members. According to the Senate president, several names mentioned in Advinculas statement in 2016 were also mentioned in his allegations against the Duterte family this year. Lacson, being a former PNP Chief himself, said he personally know some of these ranking police officials although he declined to divulge their identities. Ang inisyal na iniisip ko is to talk to those people, because some of them I know personally, he said, adding that it was unfortunate that some of them were from the Philippine Military Academy (PMA). Maliit na grupo lang ito, siguro mga 5 or 6 police officers, he said when asked by reporters on how many were the groups members. The senator, however, clarified that he was not sure whether Advincula was still backed by the said cops. Lacson, the chairman of the Senate committee on public order and illegal drugs, earlier invited Advincula to a Senate hearing on Friday (May 10) to probe his claims against the Duterte family and close allies. But he later cancelled the hearing after Sottos presentation on Advinculas claims and the refusal of the Integrated Bar of the Philippines to his request for legal assistance. READ: Lacson cancels Senate probe on Bikoy narco videos Sotto earlier revealed that Advincula first made contact with his political staff Hutch Altavas in December 2016, with the latter promising dirt on Aquino and some of his erstwhile cabinet officials. Story continues He even submitted an affidavit with a request for financial assistance and protection for his family. Yung una, maisalang siya as Senate witness. Pangalawa, makalaya siya, Altavas said when asked about Advinculas requests in exchange for the information. Altavas added that they last communicated with Advincula in April 2017. He communicated siguro nakalabas na siya [sa kulungan] that was the last time April 17, 2017, he said. Sotto had decided to drop Advinculas claims in 2016 when information and documents he provided did not add up during their validation process. Obviously, imbento kasi sabi nga si Senate President, na-check niya sa HSBC, non-existent ang account, Lacson said referring to Sottos move to vet Advinculas drug allegations against the Aquino administration in 2016. (with details from Nel Maribojoc) The post Lacson: Bikoy was backed by cops in 2016 appeared first on UNTV News. The Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) is considering permanently banning all white taxis at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), executives said Wednesday. This came after another incident involving an erring taxi driver surfaced online. The driver allegedly victimized two vloggers (video bloggers) who hailed his taxi from NAIA. Apparently, the two were asked to pay for a flat rate instead of what was in the taxi meter, and were also asked for a luggage fee. The management has started banning all white taxis at NAIA Terminal 1 since Monday, May 6. They (white taxi drivers) can drop off and pick up passengers at the departure area. However, they are not allowed to go there without carrying a passenger, MIAA Media Affairs Division head, Jess Martinez, told the Philippine News Agency (PNA). The two-minute loading and unloading policy should also be applied. Martinez clarified that this ban is still on a trial period. Wed give it a trial for two weeks. We want to balance out things so the riding public would not have a problem. Eventually, we would apply this (ban) at all terminals of NAIA, MIAA General Manager Ed Monreal told reporters. MIAA would like to see if accredited transport and other operators which have permits from MIAA, such as Grab and UBE Express, would be capable of servicing the transportation needs of the passengers. If we find this okay, then all white taxi queuing lanes at the four terminals will be eliminated, explained Consuelo Bungag, MIAA Public Affairs officer-in-charge. Monreal, meanwhile, said incidents involving erring taxi drivers are recurring. Some of these drivers, he said, are using fake tariff rates that they claim were from MIAA and the Department of Tourism. The post MIAA Mulls Banning White Taxis Permanently; Starts at NAIA Terminal 1 appeared first on Carmudi Philippines. MANILA, Philippines The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) on Wednesday (May 8) suspended the implementation of number coding scheme for provincial buses in line with the 2019 Midterm Elections. The measure, according to MMDA Chief Bong Nebrija, is to accommodate commuters traveling to and from the provinces during the the elections. Meanwhile, the MMDA added that the Unified Vehicle Volume Reduction Program is automatically lifted for public and private vehicles during the weekend and on election day on Monday which was also declared a regular holiday. The number coding scheme resumes on May 15, according to the MMDA. Marje Pelayo The post Number coding scheme lifted from May 10 to 14 MMDA appeared first on UNTV News. 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 IT NOT only boggles my mind, but I am also disappointed, as all Filipinos should be, that the outspoken Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr. did not chime in to support Hanois opposition to Beijings imposition of its annual fishing moratorium in the South China Sea, which also includes the West Philippine Sea (WPS). This came after the Chinese agricultural ministry announced the start of the annual fishing ban on May 1 and will last until Aug. 16. The Vietnamese Foreign Ministry condemned Chinas unilateral fishing ban, pointing out that it violates Hanois sovereignty over the Paracel Islands and contradicts the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). But since China does not honor the UNCLOS nor does it respect the July 2016 arbitral ruling that invalidated Beijings nine-dash line claim over the South China Sea then I would suppose that this fishing ban will be imposed strictly. What is even unconscionable here is that the unilateral fishing ban also violates the Declaration on Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea between Beijing and Southeast Asian nations. So in the same manner that Vietnamese fishermen are prevented from fishing in what it considers as its own territory, the Paracel Islands, Filipino fishermen has also to observe the fishing moratorium decreed by China in our countrys exclusive economic zone (EEZ), most especially in the rich fishing ground of Scarborough Shoal (Panatag Shoal). It is, therefore, in this context that I wish the tough-talking and candid Locsin could have issued a resounding protest echoing that of the Vietnamese government, if only to remind the contemptuous Chinese officials that we are a sovereign nation that respects the rule of law and not their subjects. It is bad enough that the Filipino fishermen are being harassed and monitored closely by Chinese forces in their own fishing ground, but it is even worse that a despotic unilateral fishing ban is demanded on poor and powerless nations like the Philippines whose daily catches could not compare with the volume of catch per day Chinas armada of fishing vessels make in the disputed areas of the WPS. (By Jesus Sievert) Phuket Marriott Resort and Spa, Nai Yang Beach celebrated its third anniversary on Sunday 5th May 2019, with a Buddhist blessing ceremony at the Paksasawan Ballroom. Nine monks from Phukets Nai Yang Temple were invited to the resort to take part in a merit making and blessing ceremony, in the company of the resorts management team and associates. Alms were presented to the monks and the team members took part in prayers for good fortune. Phuket Marriott Resort and Spa, Nai Yang Beach officially started operating on 1st June 2016, becoming the latest addition to Marriott Internationals extensive portfolio in Phuket. Nestled in an absolute beachfront location on the islands pristine northwest coast, just 10 minutes drive from Phuket International Airport, the 180-room, suite and villa resort has already achieved multiple awards and accolades. The resorts associates are proud to have written another chapter in Marriotts rich history in Thailand. ACE aims to increase warfighter trust in autonomous combat technology by using human-machine collaborative dogfighting as its initial challenge scenario. Credit: DARPA Artificial intelligence has defeated chess grandmasters, Go champions, professional poker players, and, now, world-class human experts in the online strategy games Dota 2 and StarCraft II. No AI currently exists, however, that can outduel a human strapped into a fighter jet in a high-speed, high-G dogfight. As modern warfare evolves to incorporate more human-machine teaming, DARPA seeks to automate air-to-air combat, enabling reaction times at machine speeds and freeing pilots to concentrate on the larger air battle. Turning aerial dogfighting over to AI is less about dogfighting, which should be rare in the future, and more about giving pilots the confidence that AI and automation can handle a high-end fight. As soon as new human fighter pilots learn to take-off, navigate, and land, they are taught aerial combat maneuvers. Contrary to popular belief, new fighter pilots learn to dogfight because it represents a crucible where pilot performance and trust can be refined. To accelerate the transformation of pilots from aircraft operators to mission battle commanderswho can entrust dynamic air combat tasks to unmanned, semi-autonomous airborne assets from the cockpitthe AI must first prove it can handle the basics. To pursue this vision, DARPA created the Air Combat Evolution (ACE) program. ACE aims to increase warfighter trust in autonomous combat technology by using human-machine collaborative dogfighting as its initial challenge scenario. DARPA will hold a Proposers Day for interested researchers on May 17, 2019, in Arlington, Virginia. "Being able to trust autonomy is critical as we move toward a future of warfare involving manned platforms fighting alongside unmanned systems," said Air Force Lt. Col. Dan Javorsek (Ph.D.), ACE program manager in DARPA's Strategic Technology Office (STO). "We envision a future in which AI handles the split-second maneuvering during within-visual-range dogfights, keeping pilots safer and more effective as they orchestrate large numbers of unmanned systems into a web of overwhelming combat effects." ACE is one of several STO programs designed to enable DARPA's "mosaic warfare" vision. Mosaic warfare shifts warfighting concepts away from a primary emphasis on highly capable manned systemswith their high costs and lengthy development timelinesto a mix of manned and less-expensive unmanned systems that can be rapidly developed, fielded, and upgraded with the latest technology to address changing threats. Linking together manned aircraft with significantly cheaper unmanned systems creates a "mosaic" where the individual "pieces" can easily be recomposed to create different effects or quickly replaced if destroyed, resulting in a more resilient warfighting capability. The ACE program will train AI in the rules of aerial dogfighting similar to how new fighter pilots are taught, starting with basic fighter maneuvers in simple, one-on-one scenarios. While highly nonlinear in behavior, dogfights have a clearly defined objective, measureable outcome, and the inherent physical limitations of aircraft dynamics, making them a good test case for advanced tactical automation. Like human pilot combat training, the AI performance expansion will be closely monitored by fighter instructor pilots in the autonomous aircraft, which will help co-evolve tactics with the technology. These subject matter experts will play a key role throughout the program. "Only after human pilots are confident that the AI algorithms are trustworthy in handling bounded, transparent and predictable behaviors will the aerial engagement scenarios increase in difficulty and realism," Javorsek said. "Following virtual testing, we plan to demonstrate the dogfighting algorithms on sub-scale aircraft leading ultimately to live, full-scale manned-unmanned team dogfighting with operationally representative aircraft." DARPA seeks a broad spectrum of potential proposers for each area of study, including small companies and academics with little previous experience with the Defense Department. To that end, before Phase 1 of the program begins, DARPA will sponsor a stand-alone, limited-scope effort focused on the first technical area: automating individual tactical behavior for one-on-one dogfights. Called the "AlphaDogfight Trials," this initial solicitation will be issued by AFWERX, an Air Force innovation catalyst with the mission of finding novel solutions to Air Force challenges at startup speed. The AFWERX trials will pit AI dogfighting algorithms against each other in a tournament-style competition. "Through the AFWERX trials, we intend to tap the top algorithm developers in the air combat simulation and gaming communities," Javorsek said. "We want them to help lay the foundational AI elements for dogfights, on which we can build as the program progresses." AFWERX will announce the trials in the near future on its website: www.afwerx.af.mil/ . Explore further Swarms of autonomous aerial vehicles test new dogfighting skills Smaller seat sizes on airplanes are leading to increased discomfort experienced by airplane passengers. Credit: Pixabay Whether for business or personal travel, now, more than ever, thousands of Americans spend their days in the air. While most airplane passengers are hoping for maximum comfort during their flights, airline companies look to maximize their profitssometimes at the expense of passengers' space. How to meet the seat needs of airline passengers isn't something that has been quantified, so a team of researchers at Penn State set out to measure seat accommodation. Through the Open Design Lab, a research lab which focuses on design problems for human variability, Elizabeth Miller, mechanical engineering and Schreyer Scholar alumna, was exposed to the lack of understanding centered around airplane seat design. Miller conducted the research as an undergraduate at Penn State. "As the world becomes more interconnected, flight is becoming more and more important to help people get to the places that they need. Currently, airplane seats have a pretty negative reputation and don't often provide quality experiences for passengers," she said. Miller's love of travel provided her with first-hand experience of this. Being able to improve her outside passion through human-centered design research captured her attention and drove her interest in the project. "You can ask almost anyone who travels on planes, they have probably had trouble fitting in a seat or they know someone who has," she said. "We saw that a bunch of surveys captured that people associated unhappiness, discomfort and dissatisfaction with seat size. We wanted to understand this from a quantitative perspective." With direction from lab director Matt Parkinson, professor of engineering design and mechanical engineering, she began investigating how to measure seat accommodation and the different variables which impact it. These variables include anthropometry, or body measurements; seat dimensions; plane load factor; ratio of men to women; and clothing. To gather body measurement data, Miller, Parkinson and Samuel Lapp, graduate student in engineering design, used one of the open design lab's most unique toolsits virtual population. This population is created using the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, studies completed by the Center for Disease Control to regularly assess various health metrics of United States citizens, and an anthropometric survey of U.S. military personnel. Measurements from these surveys are pulled and processed thousands of times to create an average population that is representative of the entire U.S. population. Through SeatGuru, a website which features airline seat information, the researchers collected economy seat map and dimension data from major United States airlines. These numbers were compared with the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society's seated environment guidelines. Researchers also manually measured seats while they flew to better understand how armrests relate to seat-width dimension. Because the sample population is made of a United States average, the team selected the classic economy "three-seat, aisle, three-seat," 24-row, flying environment that Americans see on a Boeing 737 or Airbus A320. "The majority of the population would fly there [economy] and the impact would be the most significant because the seats are the smallest [in economy]," Miller said. After collecting population data and seat dimension information, the team applied a random sampling algorithm in MATLAB to select a group of passengers from the virtual population. Seat assignments were made using three different passenger distribution strategiesrandom, behavioral and optimal. As expected, the random configuration assigns seats randomly. Empty rows and passenger behaviors are ignored. In the behavioral strategy, seats are first assigned using random distribution. Once seats are assigned, passengers redistribute themselves to increase their personal space. Passengers are moved to empty rows nearby or to aisle and window seats to keep middle seats free, when possible. For the optimal strategy, passengers are distributed to the window and aisle seats first, to maximize available space. Passengers are only assigned to middle seats if necessary. Upon seat assignment, the ratio of accommodated passengers to the total number of passengers on the plane was evaluated based on individual spatial accommodation and contextual accommodation. Accommodation focused solely on hip breadth for the study and highlighted three conditionsstrict, margin and compression. Strict accommodation states that a flyer is defined as accommodated if hip breadth is less than the seat width. Margin accommodation includes additional space for clothing and movement. Compression accommodation occurs when a passenger's hip breadth minus a compression margin is smaller than the seat width. Research results showed that accommodation is at its lowest when all passengers are women, as men have a 20 percent higher accommodation rate than women in a 400-millimeter seat. "Female passengers tend to be disaccommodated more by seat width because women on average tend to have wider hip breaths," Miller said. Because gender ratios are not something that can be controlled by airlines, the team was most interested in ways accommodation could be improved. In relation to seat dimensions, the results showed that more passengers can be accommodated if even the smallest increase in size is made to the smallest seats. But, if the seat is already large, increasing its size won't significantly boost the number of people it can accommodate comfortably. The team also looked at seat assignment strategy and how it can be used for better accommodation. Results state that if passengers are distributed more optimally by taking advantage of empty seats and leaving middle seats empty as much possible, more people are accommodated. The work was published in Volume 62, Issue 2 of Ergonomics. Further work on including analysis of shoulder breadth compared to seat width and buttock-to-knee length compared to seat pitch was completed as part of Miller's undergraduate honors thesis. To provide further insight into airplane passenger accommodation, Miller believes additional work relating comfort to emotion must be researched. "Fit can be something that is as simple as how wide hips are and how wide a seat is, but what matters here is also the human factor of emotion and comfort and how people actually feel," she said. "We have this numeric way of measuring, but we want to directly tie that to people's feelings." Explore further Rear seats of cars need better safety equipment, study says More information: Elizabeth L. Miller et al. The effects of seat width, load factor, and passenger demographics on airline passenger accommodation, Ergonomics (2019). Journal information: Ergonomics Elizabeth L. Miller et al. The effects of seat width, load factor, and passenger demographics on airline passenger accommodation,(2019). DOI: 10.1080/00140139.2018.1550209 Credit: CC0 Public Domain While it's often blamed for the fall of brick-and-mortar stores nationwide, Amazon also helps millions of small businesses thrive in the digital era. The tech giant published its second annual "Small Business Impact Report" on Tuesday, revealing that it has helped more than 1.9 million U.S.-based small and medium-sized businesses (SBMs) generate more than $160 billion in 2018. The company says that these businesses, on average, pull in $90,000 a year in Amazon sales. Small business owners and authors expand their business by selling in Amazon's stores, publishing via the company's e-book's unit and utilizing the online retailer's various web services. Builders and developers who create Alexa-enabled devices also bring in revenue by selling items on the nation's largest e-commerce marketplace. In fact, the tech giant says 90% of the Alexa-enabled gadgets on its site were built by someone outside of the company. "As we work to help them grow their businesses, we are making big investments in our delivery network, data centers, AI research (and) robotics," said Jeff Wilke, CEO of Amazon's worldwide consumer division, in a statement. The CEO said that the company is "inspired by the type of inventiveness that makes entrepreneurs tick," so Amazon has invested tens of billions to help them succeed. Here are some of the key takeaways from the report: Sellers The number of companies selling products in Amazon's stores is growing, and last year the number of SMBs that surpassed $1 million in sales grew by 20% over the year before, Amazon said. On average, U.S. small business owners sold 4,000 items a minute in Amazon's stores. The e-commerce website lent more than $1 billion to help owners build inventory. The top-selling categories are Health & Personal Care, Home, and Beauty. Writers In 2018, authors made more than $260 million from Amazon's ebook publishing unit called Kindle Direct Publishing. The Seattle-based company says that thousands of independent authors earned more than $50,000 last year and more than a thousand surpassed $100,000 in royalties. Since 2007 when the publishing division launched, hundreds of thousands of authors from around the world have self-published using the service. Authors get to keep 70% of every sale, Amazon says. Delivery Amazon lets entrepreneurs build their own business by delivering packages. The company claims that small business owners earn as much as $300,000 in annual profit by operating a fleet of up to 40 vehicles, however, the report did not reveal how much delivery operators make on average. States Some states are outselling others. These states are the fastest growing, according to Amazon: 1. Mississippi 2. Nebraska 3. Maine 4. Texas 5. Indiana 6. Colorado 7. North Dakota 8. Vermont 9. Wisconsin 10. Missouri Explore further Amazon launches small business shop (c)2019 USA Today Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. In this Tuesday, May 7, 2019, photo a San Diego Zoo's animal care staff member cares for the first chicks born at the San Diego Zoo African Penguin colony in San Diego, Calif. The fluffy pair of 2-month-olds, named Doug and Barbara, in honor of Douglas G. Myers, president/CEO of San Diego Zoo Global, and his wife Barbara Myers, are the first chicks hatched at the Zoo from eggs laid by the colony's resident penguin couples. (Ken Bohn/San Diego Zoo Global via AP) The San Diego Zoo has two new arrivals: a pair of endangered African penguin chicks. The zoo announced Wednesday that the fluffy chicks, named Doug and Barbara, hatched two months ago. The eggs came from two breeding couples. The zoo says it's the first time eggs laid by its adult penguins have hatched there. Staff has been working with the chicks to get them used to humans before they are introduced into the penguin colony in the next few weeks. African penguins are an endangered species. Their numbers have dropped by more than 60% in the past three decades and only 23,000 breeding pairs are known to exist. The decline is blamed on several factors, including disease, habitat destruction and lack of food from overfishing, climate change and pollution. In this Tuesday, May 7, 2019, photo, San Diego Zoo's animal care staff weights one of the first chicks born at the San Diego Zoo African Penguin colony in San Diego, Calif. A fluffy pair of 2-month-olds, named Doug and Barbara, in honor of Douglas G. Myers, president/CEO of San Diego Zoo Global, and his wife Barbara Myers, are the first chicks hatched at the Zoo from eggs laid by the colony's resident penguin couples. (Ken Bohn/San Diego Zoo Global via AP) In this Tuesday, May 7, 2019, photo, a San Diego Zoo's animal care staff member weights one of the first chicks born at the San Diego Zoo African Penguin colony in San Diego, Calif. The fluffy pair of 2-month-olds, named Doug and Barbara, in honor of Douglas G. Myers, president/CEO of San Diego Zoo Global, and his wife Barbara Myers, are the first chicks hatched at the Zoo from eggs laid by the colony's resident penguin couples. (Ken Bohn/San Diego Zoo Global via AP) This Tuesday, May 7, 2019, photo shows the first chicks born at the San Diego Zoo African Penguin colony in San Diego, Calif. The fluffy pair of 2-month-olds, named Doug and Barbara, in honor of Douglas G. Myers, president/CEO of San Diego Zoo Global, and his wife Barbara Myers, are the first chicks hatched at the Zoo from eggs laid by the colony's resident penguin couples. (Ken Bohn/San Diego Zoo Global via AP) 2019 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. White-throated rail. Credit: Charles J Sharp [CC BY-SA 4.0] New research has shown that the last surviving flightless species of bird, a type of rail, in the Indian Ocean had previously gone extinct but rose from the dead thanks to a rare process called 'iterative evolution'. The research, from the University of Portsmouth and Natural History Museum, found that on two occasions, separated by tens of thousands of years, a rail species was able to successfully colonise an isolated atoll called Aldabra and subsequently became flightless on both occasions. The last surviving colony of flightless rails is still found on the island today. This is the first time that iterative evolution (the repeated evolution of similar or parallel structures from the same ancestor but at different times) has been seen in rails and one of the most significant in bird records. The white-throated rail is a chicken-sized bird, indigenous to Madagascar in the south-western Indian Ocean. They are persistent colonisers of isolated islands, who would have frequent population explosions and migrate in great numbers from Madagascar. Many of those that went north or south drowned in the expanse of ocean and those that went west landed in Africa, where predators ate them. Of those that went east, some landed on the many ocean islands such as Mauritius, Reunion and Aldabra, the last-named is a ring-shaped coral atoll that formed around 400,000 years ago. With the absence of predators on the atoll, and just like the Dodo of Mauritius, the rails evolved so that they lost the ability to fly. However, Aldabra disappeared when it was completely covered by the sea during a major inundation event around 136,000 years ago, wiping out all fauna and flora including the flightless rail. Wing bones fossils of flighted (right) and flightless Dryolimnas rails. Credit: Dr Julian Hume. The researchers studied fossil evidence from 100,000 years ago when the sea-levels fell during the subsequent ice age and the atoll was recolonised by flightless rails. The researchers compared the bones of a fossilised rail from before the inundation event with bones from a rail after the inundation event. They found that the wing bone showed an advanced state of flightlessness and the ankle bones showed distinct properties that it was evolving toward flightlessness. This means that one species from Madagascar gave rise to two different species of flightless rail on Aldabra in the space of a few thousand years. Lead researcher Dr. Julian Hume, avian paleontologist and Research Associate at the Natural History Museum, said: "These unique fossils provide irrefutable evidence that a member of the rail family colonised the atoll, most likely from Madagascar, and became flightless independently on each occasion. Fossil evidence presented here is unique for rails, and epitomises the ability of these birds to successfully colonise isolated islands and evolve flightlessness on multiple occasions." Co-author Professor David Martill, from the School of Earth and Environmental Sciences at the University of Portsmouth, said: "We know of no other example in rails, or of birds in general, that demonstrates this phenomenon so evidently. Only on Aldabra, which has the oldest palaeontological record of any oceanic island within the Indian Ocean region, is fossil evidence available that demonstrates the effects of changing sea levels on extinction and recolonisation events. "Conditions were such on Aldabra, the most important being the absence of terrestrial predators and competing mammals, that a rail was able to evolve flightlessness independently on each occasion." Explore further Miniscule flightless birds have lived in New Zealand's wetlands for millions of years More information: Julian P Hume et al, Repeated evolution of flightlessness in Dryolimnas rails (Aves: Rallidae) after extinction and recolonization on Aldabra, Zoological Journal of the Linnean Society (2019). Journal information: Zoological Journal of the Linnean Society Julian P Hume et al, Repeated evolution of flightlessness in Dryolimnas rails (Aves: Rallidae) after extinction and recolonization on Aldabra,(2019). DOI: 10.1093/zoolinnean/zlz018 (WB) Matthew Easton, the Brigham Young University valedictorian who came out during his commencement speech, appeared on The Ellen DeGeneres Show where he emotionally explained why he chose to come out publicly at graduation. Easton, who is a 24-year-old political science major, was already out to his friends and family but he came out publicly in his graduation speech at BYUs College of Family, Home and Social Science. The speech has received more than 200,000 views on YouTube. This is a new chapter in my life. Im graduating and I want to live more authentically, live more honestly, Easton told DeGeneres. And more than that, I want to give visibility to the other students who are gay who maybe arent so ready to come out I was so ready to do it. Easton explained BYUs strict honor code to DeGeneres, which prevented her from asking certain details about his private life. He says physical contact between two people of the same sex, even a handshake, could be seen as an inappropriate gesture and get a student expelled. He also says he decided to come out publicly in honor of a gay BYU student he knew who came out on Facebook. The student faced intense backlash and ended up committing suicide. I saw him do that, and I thought, Is that my future? Easton tearfully recalls. Is that what Im heading toward? So I thought, if I came out at graduation, maybe a student like mea freshmangets to know that my future is something brighter. We can succeed. We can do what we want, accomplish our dreams. Easton has plans to move to Salt Lake City and hopes to get more involved in the LGBTQ community. He also is interested in heading to D.C. one day to put his political science degree to use. At the end of the interview, DeGeneres presents Easton with a check for $10,000. Watch below. Boeing's global fleet of 737 MAX planes has been grounded since mid-March following two deadly crashes No amount of public relations spin can repair the reputational hit from two deadly plane crashes. But Boeing may have further damaged itself with muddled communications that downplayed its responsibility in the disasters. Chief Executive Dennis Muilenburg has insisted there was "no surprise or gap" in the design of the top-selling 737 MAX aircraft, even as the company works to correct issues and persuade regulators that a software update should be enough clear the planes to fly again. The plane has been grounded worldwide since the March 10 crash of an Ethiopian Airlines flight plunged the company into crisis mode. It came on the heels of an October crash of a Lion Air flight in Indonesia, two accidents that claimed 346 lives. "We own it," Muilenburg has said of the crisis. But some aviation and public relations experts said the Boeing CEO has tried to walk back that buck-stops-here sentiment by blaming the crashes on a "chain of events" with "no singular" cause. "You can't follow one consistent train of thought on anything that's come out of Chicago," Jim Hall, former head of the National Transportation Safety Board, said of Boeing's leadership. "I don't think they've been credible or responsible in the information they've provided," he said in an interview. "They certainly haven't been transparent." And aviation expert Richard Aboulafia of the Teal Group said Boeing has been "a little bit more defensive than they need to be." "They really need to stick with taking ownership." Boeing CEO Dennis Muilenberg has been criticized for his handling of the Boeing 737 MAX crisis But Boeing spokesman Gordon Johndroe said the company was restricted in how much it can divulge because of international protocol on crash investigations. "As we've learned additional information, it's incumbent on us to be as transparent as possible," he said. "We know we have work to do to restore the trust of pilots and crews, international regulators and the traveling public." Shifting blame? A common link in both accidents was the Maneuvering Characteristics Augmentation System or MCAS, an automated flight handling program on the MAX that pointed the plane sharply downward based on a faulty sensor reading, hindering pilot control after takeoff, according to preliminary investigations. Boeing has been working on what it calls a "software update" to the MCAS, which Muilenburg said will "break" a "common link" in both accidents. Dennis Tajer, a pilot and spokesman for the Allied Pilots Association, said he has been encouraged by Boeing's drafts of the revamped system, which will ensure the MCAS is linked to two sensors instead of one and will no longer point full-nose down. But he criticized Muilenburg's statement that the crashes resulted from a "chain of events." "They were good when they said 'We own this,'" Tajer said. "When you say it's a chain of events, that's like a dog-whistle to us to blame the pilots." Scott Hamilton, founder of Leeham Company, an aviation consultancy, also took issue with Boeing's characterizing of the MCAS problems. Paul Njoroge, who lost his entire immediate family, at a press conference in Chicago, last month after his lawyers announced a lawsuit on behalf of the families of 10 Canadians who were killed in the tragic crash of an Ethiopian Airlines Max8 aircraft "Using Boeing speak this is not a 'fix', this is an upgrade to make the system more robust," he said. Liability fears "They won't even acknowledge that this is a fix. And they certainly won't acknowledge this was a design flaw" due to worries about liability and criminal probes stemming from the accidents. Hamilton said the company was further damaged by a "drip drip" of news stories that have painted a confusing picture about how the MCAS was supposed to work, why Boeing didn't respond earlier to signs of problems, and what it told customers and regulators, as well as concerns over a cozy relationship with aviation regulators. But Scott Farrell, leader of the brand reputation group at Golin, a public relations firm, said Boeing was facing a "classic tug of war between managing a crisis with an eye on the court of law versus the court of public opinion," he said. Boeing has "swung too far to the court of law approach." US airlines have said they expect to return the 737 MAX to service over the summer. Yet carriers may face difficulties with public confidence even after regulators clear it to fly again. Nearly half of 1,700 fliers questioned in a recent survey said they would wait a year after the 737 MAX's return to fly the plane, according to Barclays. Barclays downgraded Boeing and conducted the survey because it suspected public apprehension about the planes "could be worse this time than following past incidents given social media and fliers' ability to know the aircraft type in advance of booking." 2019 AFP Brown bears have been extinct in Portugal since the 19th century The first brown bear sighting in Portugal in more than a century was confirmed by wildlife experts on Thursday, after reports of an animal in the northeast of the country. The bear, which most likely belongs to a population living in the western Cantabrian Mountains in northern Spain, is thought to have wandered across the border. "The reappearance of individuals from this species in Portugal... has now been confirmed by the ICNF," the Portuguese Institute for Conservation of Nature and Forests (ICNF) said. Brown bears have been extinct in Portugal since the 19th century. "The last reports of a stable presence of brown bears in Portugal are between the 18th and the end of the 19th century. They then died out," the ICNF said. The animal was spotted in the Montesinho Natural Park and Braganca commune in northeastern Portugal. The town of Bragance is about 20 kilometres (12 miles) from the Spanish border. Media reports say the last living bear in Portugal was killed in 1843 in the northwest mountainous region of Geres. "The fact that a bear has crossed our border does not mean that there is a bear established in Portugal. At the moment we have a stray animal," said Paulo Caetano, an author of a book on bears, on Portuguese radio. The animal is probably a young male looking for "a peaceful territory, a companion and food," he said. The bear population in the Cantabrian mountain range, which extends east to west over four Spanish regions, has been increasing since the 1989 adoption of a relocation plan. In 2018, some 330 bears were counted in the mountains there, according to the environmentalist foundation Oso Pardo. Explore further Bears may be back in the Swiss Alps 2019 AFP In this Dec. 14, 2017, file photo, the seal of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is seen before an FCC meeting to vote on net neutrality in Washington. U.S. communications regulators on Thursday, May 9, 2019, rejected a Chinese telecom company's application to provide service in the U.S. due to national-security risks amid an escalation in tensions between the two countries. The FCCC on Thursday voted unanimously, 5-0 across party lines, to reject China Mobile International USA Inc.'s long-ago filed application. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin, File) U.S. communications regulators on Thursday rejected a Chinese telecom company's application to provide service in the U.S. due to national security risks amid an escalation in tensions between the two countries. The Federal Communications Commission on Thursday voted unanimously, 5-0 across party lines, to reject China Mobile International USA Inc.'s long-ago filed application. The Commerce Department had recommended that denial last year. The company, which the FCC says is ultimately owned by the Chinese government, applied in 2011 to provide international phone service in the U.S. "Granting China Mobile's application would not be in the public interest," said FCC Chairman Ajit Pai. "There is a significant risk that the Chinese government would use China Mobile to conduct activities that would seriously jeopardize the national security, law enforcement, and economic interests of the United States." Pai said during a press conference that the FCC was also looking at authorizations given years ago to two other Chinese carriers, China Unicom and China Telecom, for U.S. operations. Commissioner Brendan Carr, who, like Pai, is a Republican, had said earlier said the FCC should investigate whether China Unicom and China Telecom should have their authorizations revoked. Commissioner Jessica Rosenworcel, a Democrat, criticized the agency for not doing enough to protect U.S. networks, adding that Thursday's vote was just "performative security" on an application that had been on "permanent pause" and sitting around for more than eight years. The Trump administration has been pushing against China in several ways. It has been pressuring allies to reject Chinese telecom equipment for their networks, with limited success, citing security risks from Chinese telecom giant Huawei. The FCC has also proposed cutting off funding for U.S. telecom companies that use equipment from Chinese companies deemed national-security risks. That could hurt small rural phone companies who have that equipment in their networks. This measure hasn't been scheduled for a final vote. The U.S. and China are also in the middle of high-stakes trade talks . China Mobile did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Explore further US praises German 5G standards as Huawei battle simmers 2019 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. Facebook co-founder Chris Hughes warned that the social network has become a "leviathan" stifling competition in social media and with Mark Zuckerberg enjoying "staggering" influence over the attention of more than two billion people worldwide One of the co-founders of Facebook called on Thursday for the social media behemoth to be broken up, warning that the company's head, Mark Zuckerberg, had become far too powerful. "It's time to break up Facebook," said Chris Hughes, who along with Zuckerberg founded the online network in their dorm room while both were students at Harvard University in 2004. In an editorial published in The New York Times, Hughes said Zuckerberg's "focus on growth led him to sacrifice security and civility for clicks," and warned that his global influence had become "staggering." Zuckerberg not only controls Facebook but also the widely used Instagram and WhatsApp platforms, and Hughes said that Facebook's board works more like an advisory committee than a check on the chief executive's power. "Facebook accepts that with success comes accountability," said vice president of global affairs and communications Nick Clegg. "But you don't enforce accountability by calling for the breakup of a successful American company." Clegg, a British former deputy prime minister, reasoned that carefully crafted regulation of the internet is the way to hold technology companies accountable, and noted that Zuckerberg has been advocating for just that. Facebook and its family of services have many competitors, and can find corporate efficiencies when it comes to data centers, talent and other resources that can work on its various offerings, Clegg said. Facebook bought up its main competitors Instagram and WhatsApp Hughes, who quit Facebook more than a decade ago, was pictured in the newspaper together with Zuckerberg when both were fresh-faced students launching Facebook as a campus networking tool. He accused Facebook of acquiring or copying all of its competitors to achieve dominance in the social media field, meaning that investors were reluctant to back any rivals because they know they cannot compete for long. Zuckerberg "has created a leviathan that crowds out entrepreneurship and restricts consumer choice," wrote Hughes, who is now a member of the Economic Security Project, which is pushing for a universal basic income in the United States. After buying up its main competitors Instagram, where people can publish photos, and WhatsApp, a secure messaging service, Facebook now has 2.7 billion monthly users across its platforms and made a first quarter profit of $2.43 billion this year. 'Break up Facebook's monopoly' "The most problematic aspect of Facebook's power is Mark's unilateral control over speech. There is no precedent for his ability to monitor, organize and even censor the conversations of two billion people," said Hughes. The company has been rocked by a series of scandals recently, including allowing its users' data to be harvested by research companies and its slow response to Russia using Facebook as a means to spread disinformation during the 2016 US election campaign. Facebook is reportedly expecting to face a fine of $5 billion. It has also been investing heavily in staff and artificial intelligence to fight misinformation and other abuses at its platform. Mark Zuckerberg has become too powerful, according to Facebook co-founder Chris Hughes A whistleblower group in Washington filed an official complaint that Facebook was unwittingly auto-generating content for terror-linked groups using its platform that its artificial intelligence systems do not recognize as extremist. Facebook's software was automatically "creating and promoting terror content," the National Whistleblowers Center added in the complaint, by creating "celebration" and "memories" videos for extremist pages that had amassed sufficient views or "likes." The group said Thursday it filed a complaint with the US Securities and Exchange Commission on behalf of a source that preferred to remain anonymous. In his editorial, Hughes urged the government to break Instagram and WhatsApp away from Facebook and prevent new acquisitions for several years. "The American government needs to do two things: break up Facebook's monopoly and regulate the company to make it more accountable to the American people," Hughes said. "Even after a breakup, Facebook would be a hugely profitable business with billions to invest in new technologiesand a more competitive market would only encourage those investments," he said. Hughes said the break-up, under existing anti-trust laws, would allow better privacy protections for social media users and would cost US authorities almost nothing. Hughes said that he remained friends with Zuckerberg, noting that "he's human. But it's his very humanity that makes his unchecked power so problematic." Explore further Two top Facebook executives depart the company 2019 AFP Coal is on course to provide only 25 percent of the US energy mix by the summer of 2019 (against 35 percent in 2015), while natural gas will account for 40 percent, according to an analysis published by the Energy Information Administration (EIA) Fifty coal-fired power plants have shut in the United States since President Donald Trump came to office two years ago, an environmental organization said Thursday. The Sierra Club counted 50 closures, along with 51 announcements of closure, since Trump was sworn into office in January 2017. The numbers are distinct because it sometimes takes years between an announcement and the actual shuttering. This week, the operators of two coal plants, one in Florida and the other in Utah, announced they would shut their doors within the next few years. In total, 289 have closed since 2010, comprising 40 percent of the US's coal power capacity, while an additional 241 plants remain open. A coal power plant that began running in Alaska a few weeks ago is the only new installation to open since Trump took office, the non-profit said. "We're seeing a rush to the exit door from the coal industry and utilities, because the economics don't work out," the Sierra Club's Jonathan Levenshus told AFP. Despite the president's pro-coal rhetoric, "what the Trump administration is offering is false promises," he added. Since the fracking boom began around a decade ago, coal has become more expensive to exploit than natural gas, which is experiencing strong growth in the United States and increasingly replacing coal. By this summer, coal is on course to provide only 25 percent of the US energy mix from its share of 35 percent in 2015. Meanwhile, natural gas will account for 40 percent of the power supply, according to an analysis published Thursday by the Energy Information Administration (EIA). US coal production has fallen by a third since its peak in 2008, according to official energy statistics, and more than half of all mines have closed since that time. 2019 AFP On cold days, the 'daywake' gene activates to suppress Drosophila flies' tendency to take a midday nap -- presumably so they can spend more time seeking food or mates. Credit: Isaac Edery, Rutgers University's Center for Advanced Biotechnology and Medicine Rutgers researchers have identified a siesta-suppressing gene in fruit flies, which sheds light on the biology that helps many creatures, including humans, balance the benefits of a good nap against those of getting important activities done during the day. Many animals take midday naps, or siestas, that are more intense on warm daysprobably an evolved protection against exposure to the hot noontime sun, according to the study published in the journal Current Biology. In humans, short naps help with memory and learning, but too much daytime sleep is associated with diabetes, Parkinson's and other diseases. The researchers at Rutgers' Center for Advanced Biotechnology and Medicine found a gene in Drosophila flies that, when temperatures are cool, activates to suppress the flies' tendency to take a daytime nappresumably so they can spend additional time seeking food or mates. The researchers named the gene "daywake." "This gene contributes to behavioral flexibility, or the ability to hide from the noontime sun when weather is hot but engage in activities good for survival when the weather is cool. That probably helped these flies expand beyond their ancestral home in equatorial Africa to successfully colonize temperate zones around the world," said co-author Isaac Edery, a professor at the Rutgers center. Daywake sits adjacent to and slightly overlaps a previously documented gene, called "period," that regulates the flies' circadian clock and governs daily wake-sleep cycles. The researchers found that daywake activity is increased by a specific sequence within the period gene, and that this process happens most efficiently when the flies are exposed to cold temperatures. This process, and daywake's nap-suppression activity, does not affect the flies' nighttime sleep. "Although the daywake gene is not present in humans, our finding reinforces the idea that nighttime sleep and daytime siesta are governed by distinct mechanisms and serve separate functions for health and survival," Edery said. The finding that the activities of a sequence in one gene can trigger the action of a nearby gene is itself a novel discovery that promises to reveal new gene regulatory mechanisms in flies and other organisms, Emery said. The study was co-authored by Yong Yang, formerly of the Rutgers Center for Advanced Biotechnology and Medicine. Explore further Circadian clock plays unexpected role in neurodegenerative diseases European Herring Gull preparing Sea Squirt for eating in Dun Laoghaire Marina, Ireland. Credit: Tim Blackburn Observations of Herring Gulls by scientists from the University of Southampton have shown how the coastal birds have developed complicated behaviour to 'skin' sea creatures to make them safe to eat. Researchers think this feeding habit may be a response to urbanisation and changes in food availability. The gulls (Larus argentatus) of Dun Laoghaire Marina at Dublin in Ireland have found a novel way of disposing of the tightly fixed outer layer of sea squirtsan organism which they have learnt to pluck from the underside of pontoons by diving or floating on the water. Sea squirts, or ascidians, are filter feeding creatures which have an outer layer, known as a 'tunic', designed to give protection from predators. This tunic is unpalatable to gulls, however, those living around Dun Laoghaire have overcome this using a particularly clever method. The birds grasp the sea squirt's tunic in their beaks, shake it to loosen the soft edible inner body, then switch to hold the inner body (again with their beaks) and shake again until the inedible outer layer is removed. The team's report, published in the journal Ecosphere, is the first recorded observation of Herring Gulls feeding using this unusual behaviour. Project leader Luke Holman, a postgraduate researcher in the School of Ocean and Earth Science at the University of Southampton, comments: "As our coasts have been urbanised over the centuries, gull species have become opportunistic when looking for food. We have all seen them raiding rubbish bins in seaside towns and even swooping to take food straight from people's hands. But our study shows how the gulls of Dun Laoghaire are adapting in a different wayexploiting a new food source by developing a novel, sophisticated feeding strategy. European Herring Gulls Credit: Tim Blackburn "Their dexterity and handling ability is unprecedented and they are able to separate the two halves of the organism either while on land or surface swimming. Their complex technique reinforces the general view that gulls are highly versatile predatorsskilled at handling objects and foraging." Sea squirts are very successful fouling organisms that cling to the damp surfaces of coastal structures, such as pontoons, and often become invasive when artificially introduced to new areas. Increased development of coastal areas provides them with ideal habitats for proliferating. In addition, shipping and recreational boating has encouraged their spread. This has led to them emerging as a potential new food source along increasingly urbanised coastlines. The researchers are now keen to know if the behaviour of the gulls in Dun Laoghaire is happening in isolation or whether it represents a wider feeding pattern. The Herring Gull is on the Red List of the British Trust for Ornithology (BTO) 'Birds of Conservation Concern 4' because of severe, long-term population decline in the UK and as such it could benefit from new ways of feeding. Explore further Gull decline on Scottish island linked to decline in fishing discards More information: Luke E. Holman et al, Observations of a novel predatory gull behavior on an invasive ascidian: A new consequence of coastal urban sprawl?, Ecosphere (2019). Journal information: Ecosphere Luke E. Holman et al, Observations of a novel predatory gull behavior on an invasive ascidian: A new consequence of coastal urban sprawl?,(2019). DOI: 10.1002/ecs2.2636 Emirates Airline blamed high fuel prices and a strong dollar for the sharp fall in its net profits Emirates Airline reported a 69 percent drop in net profits Thursday on high fuel prices and a strong dollar in what it described as a "tough" year. The Dubai carrier posted $237 million in net profits for the financial year ending in March compared to $765 million in the previous year, it said in a statement. "2018-19 has been tough, and our performance was not as strong as we would have liked," the chairman and chief executive of Emirates Group, Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al-Maktoum, said in a statement. "Higher oil prices and the strengthened US dollar eroded our earnings, even as competition intensified in our key markets," he said. The airline said that the strengthening of the US dollar against most of the currencies of its key markets eroded $156 million from profits. Its fuel bill increased by 25 percent to $8.4 billion, its biggest-ever. Emirates said it transported 58.6 million passengers , almost unchanged from the previous year. The region'sand one of the world'sbiggest carriers said that despite the drop in profits, it invested $3.9 billion last year in new aircraft and equipment, and in acquisitions. In February, Emirates cut 39 aircraft from its order for the Airbus 380 superjumbo, reducing it 123 and leading the European manufacturer to scrap production of the world's largest passenger airliner. The airline invested part of the savings in orders for 40 A330-900s and 30 A350-900s, a deal worth $21.4 billion. During the year, Emirates received seven A380s and six Boeing 777-300s and phased out 11 aircraft, expanding its fleet to 270 large planes. The airline said that despite tough competition, its revenues increased by three percent last year to $26.7 billion. It said that its results were also affected by a drop in global air freight demand and a weak travel market, especially in the Middle East. 2019 AFP Dr. Michael Bortz (left) and Prof. Karl-Heinz Kufer of the Fraunhofer ITWM receive the Joseph von Fraunhofer Prize for the development of an analysis tool that can save energy in the double-digit percentage range. Credit: Fraunhofer / Piotr Banczerowski Whether in agriculture, industry or private households, chemicals are needed everywhere. However, their production requires a very large amount of energy. With a new type of hybrid access, energy can be saved in the double-digit percentage range depending on the plant and process. The development took place in the team of Dr. Michael Bortz and Prof. Karl-Heinz Kufer at the Fraunhofer Institute for Industrial Mathematics ITWM, for which they will be awarded the Joseph von Fraunhofer Prize. Plastics, detergents, fertilizersthese substances have become an indispensable part of our everyday lives. As different as they are, they have one thing in common: they are produced from certain basic chemicals that the chemical industry produces in bulk. However, this requires a lot of energy: chemical production accounts for 20 percent of Europe's total commercial energy requirements. If these can be reduced, this will protect both the environment and the budgets of the companies. Trial and error can be ruled outbecause then the product may no longer meet the quality specifications and maybe unsaleable. The losses would be unforeseeable. Analysis tool: significant energy savings The team led by Dr. Michael Bortz and Dr. Karl-Heinz Kufer from the Fraunhofer ITWM in Kaiserslautern has developed a model that comprehensively describes the complex processes. For this they are receiving the Joseph von Fraunhofer Prize. "Our algorithms represent the processes realistically, so we can describe the production processes over the entire life cycle," explains Dr. Michael Bortz, physicist and head of department at the Fraunhofer ITWM. "This has already enabled us to save ten percent of the energy required for an existing production plant. The chemical group BASF and the Swiss chemical and pharmaceutical company Lonza Group AG are already using the software, which is available to hundreds of process engineers every day. Firstly, a hybrid approach: Models and process data go hand in hand "For our analysis, we have brought two things together: Firstly, the physical laws that we have represented in a model that is to say, the expert knowledge about the thermodynamic and chemical processes. And secondly, the data that various sensors determine about the measuring process, for example temperature and pressure. We use these where no physical data is available," explains Dr. Karl-Heinz Kufer, division manager at the Fraunhofer ITWM. So far, such sensor data have already been used to monitor processes and to be able to react in good time if, for example, pressure or temperature deviate. The team around the two researchers is using machine learning methods to raise this "data treasure," including the training of artificial neural networks. Models and process data complement each other beneficially. The application possibilities are not limited to the chemical industry: Rather, advantages can be expected wherever processes with a large number of influencing factors have to be controlledand cannot be described by measurements or process data alone. In the long term, according to the researchers' plan, the system should be able to operate in real time. Explore further Simulating and optimizing industrial spinning processes a. Fossil; b. restoration, scale bar equal 10 mm; c. melanosomes of the membranous wing (mw); d. histology of the bony stomach content (bn). st, styliform element; gs, gastroliths Credit: WANG Min A new Jurassic non-avian theropod dinosaur from 163 million-year-old fossil deposits in northeastern China provides new information regarding the incredible richness of evolutionary experimentation that characterized the origin of flight in the Dinosauria. Drs. Wang Min, Jingmai K. O'Connor, Xu Xing, and Zhou Zhonghe from the Institute of Vertebrate Paleontology and Paleoanthropology (IVPP) of the Chinese Academy of Sciences described and analyzed the well-preserved skeleton of a new species of Jurassic scansoriopterygid dinosaur with associated feathers and membranous tissues. Their findings were published in Nature. The new species, named Ambopteryx longibrachium, belongs to the Scansoriopterygidae, one of the most bizarre groups of non-avian theropods. The Scansoriopterygidae differ from other theropods in their body proportions, particularly in the proportions of the forelimb, which supports a bizarre wing structure first recognized in a close relative of Ambopteryx, Yi qi. Unlike other flying dinosaurs, namely birds, these two species have membranous wings supported by a rod-like wrist bone that is not found in any other dinosaur (but is present in pterosaurs and flying squirrels). Until the discovery of Yi qi in 2015, such a flight apparatus was completely unknown among theropod dinosaurs. Due to incomplete preservation in the holotype and only known specimen of Yi qi, the veracity of these structures and their exact function remained hotly debated. Cladogram and phylomorphospace of Mesozoic coelurosaurians Credit: WANG Min As the most completely preserved specimen to date, Ambopteryx preserves membranous wings and the rod-like wrist, supporting the widespread existence of these wing structures in the Scansoriopterygidae. WANG and his colleagues investigated the ecomorphospace disparity of Ambopteryx relative to other non-avian coelurosaurians and Mesozoic birds. The results showed dramatic changes in wing architecture evolution between the Scansoriopterygidae and the avian lineage, as the two clades diverged and underwent very different evolutionary paths to achieving flight. Interestingly, forelimb elongation, an important characteristic of flying dinosaurs, was achieved in scansoriopterygids primarily through elongation of the humerus and ulna, whereas the metacarpals were elongated in non-scansoriopterygid dinosaurs including Microraptor and birds. In scansoriopterygids, the presence of an elongated manual digit III and the rod-like wrist probably compensated for the relatively short metacarpals and provided the main support for the membranous wings. In contrast, selection for relatively elongated metacarpals in most birdlike dinosaurs was likely driven by the need for increased area for the attachment of the flight feathers, which created the wing surface in Microraptor and birds. Life reconstruction of the bizarre membranous-winged Ambopteryx longibrachium. Credit: Chung-Tat Cheung The co-occurrence of short metacarpals with membranous wings, versus long metacarpals and feathered wings, exhibits how the evolution of these two significantly different flight strategies affected the overall forelimb structure. So far, all known scansoriopterygids are from the Late Jurassic and their unique membranous wing structure did not survive into the Cretaceous. This suggests that this wing structure represents a short-lived and unsuccessful attempt to fly. In contrast, feathered wings, first documented in Late Jurassic non-avian dinosaurs, were further refined through the evolution of numerous skeletal and soft tissue modifications, giving rise to at least two additional independent origins of dinosaur flight and ultimately leading to the current success of modern birds. Explore further Chinese Cretaceous fossil highlights avian evolution More information: Min Wang et al. A new Jurassic scansoriopterygid and the loss of membranous wings in theropod dinosaurs, Nature (2019). Journal information: Nature Min Wang et al. A new Jurassic scansoriopterygid and the loss of membranous wings in theropod dinosaurs,(2019). DOI: 10.1038/s41586-019-1137-z NASA's Spitzer Space Telescope has revealed that some of the universe's earliest galaxies were brighter than expected. The excess light is a byproduct of the galaxies releasing incredibly high amounts of ionizing radiation. The finding offers clues to the cause of the Epoch of Reionization, a major cosmic event that transformed the universe from being mostly opaque to the brilliant starscape seen today. In a new study, researchers report on observations of some of the first galaxies to form in the universe, less than 1 billion years after the big bang (or a little more than 13 billion years ago). The data show that in a few specific wavelengths of infrared light, the galaxies are considerably brighter than scientists anticipated. The study is the first to confirm this phenomenon for a large sampling of galaxies from this period, showing that these were not special cases of excessive brightness, but that even average galaxies present at that time were much brighter in these wavelengths than galaxies we see today. No one knows for sure when the first stars in our universe burst to life. But evidence suggests that between about 100 million and 200 million years after the big bang, the universe was filled mostly with neutral hydrogen gas that had perhaps just begun to coalesce into stars, which then began to form the first galaxies. By about 1 billion years after the big bang, the universe had become a sparkling firmament. Something else had changed, too: Electrons of the omnipresent neutral hydrogen gas had been stripped away in a process known as ionization. The Epoch of Reionization -- the changeover from a universe full of neutral hydrogen to one filled with ionized hydrogen -- is well documented. Before this universe-wide transformation, long-wavelength forms of light, such as radio waves and visible light, traversed the universe more or less unencumbered. But shorter wavelengths of light -- including ultraviolet light, X-rays and gamma rays -- were stopped short by neutral hydrogen atoms. These collisions would strip the neutral hydrogen atoms of their electrons, ionizing them. But what could have possibly produced enough ionizing radiation to affect all the hydrogen in the universe? Was it individual stars? Giant galaxies? If either were the culprit, those early cosmic colonizers would have been different than most modern stars and galaxies, which typically don't release high amounts of ionizing radiation. Then again, perhaps something else entirely caused the event, such as quasars -- galaxies with incredibly bright centers powered by huge amounts of material orbiting supermassive black holes. "It's one of the biggest open questions in observational cosmology," said Stephane De Barros, lead author of the study and a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Geneva in Switzerland. "We know it happened, but what caused it? These new findings could be a big clue." Looking for Light To peer back in time to the era just before the Epoch of Reionization ended, Spitzer stared at two regions of the sky for more than 200 hours each, allowing the space telescope to collect light that had traveled for more than 13 billion years to reach us. As some of the longest science observations ever carried out by Spitzer, they were part of an observing campaign called GREATS, short for GOODS Re-ionization Era wide-Area Treasury from Spitzer. GOODS (itself an acronym: Great Observatories Origins Deep Survey) is another campaign that performed the first observations of some GREATS targets. The study, published in the Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society, also used archival data from NASA's Hubble Space Telescope. Using these ultra-deep observations by Spitzer, the team of astronomers observed 135 distant galaxies and found that they were all particularly bright in two specific wavelengths of infrared light produced by ionizing radiation interacting with hydrogen and oxygen gases within the galaxies. This implies that these galaxies were dominated by young, massive stars composed mostly of hydrogen and helium. They contain very small amounts of "heavy" elements (like nitrogen, carbon and oxygen) compared to stars found in average modern galaxies. These stars were not the first stars to form in the universe (those would have been composed of hydrogen and helium only) but were still members of a very early generation of stars. The Epoch of Reionization wasn't an instantaneous event, so while the new results are not enough to close the book on this cosmic event, they do provide new details about how the universe evolved at this time and how the transition played out. "We did not expect that Spitzer, with a mirror no larger than a Hula-Hoop, would be capable of seeing galaxies so close to the dawn of time," said Michael Werner, Spitzer's project scientist at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena, California. "But nature is full of surprises, and the unexpected brightness of these early galaxies, together with Spitzer's superb performance, puts them within range of our small but powerful observatory." NASA's James Webb Space Telescope, set to launch in 2021, will study the universe in many of the same wavelengths observed by Spitzer. But where Spitzer's primary mirror is only 85 centimeters (33.4 inches) in diameter, Webb's is 6.5 meters (21 feet) -- about 7.5 times larger -- enabling Webb to study these galaxies in far greater detail. In fact, Webb will try to detect light from the first stars and galaxies in the universe. The new study shows that due to their brightness in those infrared wavelengths, the galaxies observed by Spitzer will be easier for Webb to study than previously thought. "These results by Spitzer are certainly another step in solving the mystery of cosmic reionization," said Pascal Oesch, an assistant professor at the University of Geneva and a co-author on the study. "We now know that the physical conditions in these early galaxies were very different than in typical galaxies today. It will be the job of the James Webb Space Telescope to work out the detailed reasons why." JPL manages the Spitzer Space Telescope mission for NASA's Science Mission Directorate in Washington. Science operations are conducted at the Spitzer Science Center at Caltech in Pasadena. Space operations are based at Lockheed Martin Space Systems in Littleton, Colorado. Data are archived at the Infrared Science Archive housed at IPAC at Caltech. Caltech manages JPL for NASA. Please follow SpaceRef on Twitter and Like us on Facebook. Panoramic view of the Ilopango Caldera and its lake taken from the Northeast rim. Credit: Dario Pedrazzi The Ilopango volcano eruption (also known as Tierra Blanca Joven or TBJ) occurred approximately 1,500 years ago. Pyroclastics currents were dispersed over much of the present territory of El Salvador and a volcanic ash column reached a height of 49 km, according to a new research published recently in Journal of Volcanology and Geothermal Research. Dario Pedrazzi, researcher at the Institute of Earth Sciences Jaume Almera of the CSIC (ICTJA-CSIC), analyzed the TBJ ash (tephra) deposits, and has reconstructed the eruptive process of what is thought to be the largest explosive eruption that occurred in Central America in the last 10,000 years. "The TBJ eruption was initially studied several years ago, but such a complete stratigraphic study hadn't yet been carried out, and the physical parameters were not defined. The volcanic products dispersion was not determined, either," said Pedrazzi. This new study presents a complete stratigraphic description and the extent of the pyroclastic deposits of the TBJ eruption, which are still present all over El Salvador and in some neighbouring countries. The study also describes the physical parameters of the different phases of the eruption that generated the surveyed deposits. The authors of the study conducted a detailed field mapping of an area of about 200.000 km2 during three field campaigns in order to reconstruct the stratigraphy of the TBJ deposits and the relationship with other eruptive deposits. "What called our attention was the thickness of the pyroclastic deposits. Some of them were up to 70 meters thick, and reached distances of at least 40 to 50 kilometers from the vent. San Salvador City and its metropolitan area were built over the pyroclastic deposits originated during TBJ eruption," explains Dario Pedrazzi. Researchers measured 82 stratigraphic sections all over El Salvador, but they finally focused on 21 outcrops. They collected nearly 200 samples from all the outcrops that were analysed afterwards in the MARN and UNAM laboratories to obtain the parameters needed to develop numerical simulations. With all this data, the authors of the study were able to reconstruct the TBJ eruption dynamics. They identified a total of eight units in the deposits that correspond to different phases of the eruption. "It was an eruption that started with pyroclastic surges in a very specific area. Then there was a shift in the eruptive dynamics, characterized by ash fallout, and it shifted again to another phase driven mainly by pyroclastic flows," said Pedrazzi. "The eruption reached its climax with a series of pyroclastic flows probably linked to a caldera collapse. In the last phase, all the materials ejected previously were deposited by fallout mechanisms." Some of these materials were transported and spread by the dominating winds, and reached distances as far as 100 km from the vent, especially fine grain ashes. Thanks to the numerical simulations, the authors of the study were able to estimate that during the final phase of the eruption, the column of volcanic ashes and gases (co-ignimbrite plume) reached a height of 49 km. Moreover, they calculated that the total bulk volume of ejected material was about 60 km3 of magma (30 km3 dense rock equivalent, which is the original volume of erupted magma), corresponding to a 6.8 magnitude eruption. The study notes, "Mayan populations living in the region would have been considerably affected," and observes that the communities living in the territory within 50 km from the Ilopango Caldera suffered a more direct impact. However, indirect effects on the social, economic and political systems derived from the eruption "probably affected a much wider area of Central America." According to the researchers, this study "represents the first and necessary step towards improved volcanic hazard assessment for the region" to mitigate volcanic risk for the large number of communities living around Ilopango Caldera, an active volcano whose last eruption was in 1879. It was then when some domes (Islas Quemadas) were formed inside the caldera. About 3 million people live currently within 30 km of the caldera. "The previous eruption occurred 8,000 years before TBJ eruption. The returning time of the last eruptions are shorter if we compare them with the first ones, occurred about 1.5 million years ago, although the volume of material ejected during the most recent eruptions is smaller," said Dario Pedrazzi. The Ilopango Caldera is located less than 10 km from San Salvador City, the capital of El Salvador, and it forms part of Volcanic Arc of El Salvador which includes a total of 21 active volcanoes, being one of the most active segments of the Central America Volcanic Arc. Explore further Mysterious eruption came from Campi Flegrei caldera More information: Pedrazzi, D., Sunye-Puchol, I., Aguirre-Diaz, G., Costa, A., Smith, V., Poret, M., Davila-Harris, P., Miggins,D., Hernandez, W., Gutierrez, E. (2019) "The Ilopango Tierra Blanca Joven (TBJ) eruption, El Salvador: Volcano-Stratigraphy and physical characterization of the major Holocene event of Central America". Journal of Volcanology and Geothermal Research, 377, 81-102. doi: Journal information: Journal of Volcanology and Geothermal Research Pedrazzi, D., Sunye-Puchol, I., Aguirre-Diaz, G., Costa, A., Smith, V., Poret, M., Davila-Harris, P., Miggins,D., Hernandez, W., Gutierrez, E. (2019) "The Ilopango Tierra Blanca Joven (TBJ) eruption, El Salvador: Volcano-Stratigraphy and physical characterization of the major Holocene event of Central America". Journal of Volcanology and Geothermal Research, 377, 81-102. doi: doi.org/10.1016/j.jvolgeores.2019.03.0060377-0273 Army Corps of Engineers officials in Louisiana aim to open a historic flood control structure above New Orleans on Tuesday for an unprecedented second time in one year. "It's an unprecedented amount of water that's coming down," David Ramirez, chief of water management for the Corps' New Orleans District, told reporters Thursday. The request for authorization from the Corps' Mississippi Valley Division comes as floods across the Midwest have caused billions of dollars in damage to homes, farms and businesses. Continued rains in the Midwest and Ohio Valley and floodwaters from the upper Mississippi River are heading down the Mississippi, National Weather Service hydrologist Jeffrey Graschel said. In addition, he noted, storms are expected to dump 5 to 10 inches (13 to 25 centimeters) of rain in parts of Louisiana and Arkansas. The Bonnet Carre Spillway gets opened to relieve stress on New Orleans levees when the Mississippi flows at 1.25 million cubic feet (35,400 cubic meters) per secondfast enough to fill the Empire State Building in 30 seconds. "The risks in not operating the spillway as it is designed ... would be potentially catastrophic," corps spokesman Ricky Boyett said. The spillway, completed in 1931, is a 1.5-mile-long (2.4-kilometer-long) construction of 350 concrete bays and 7,000 huge timbers called needles. Its unusually early opening in February marked the 13th time it has been used overall, but only the second time it's been used in consecutive years. Earlier this year, 206 bays were opened, discharging 213,000 cubic feet (6,032 cubic meters) of water per second into the spillway. "An average flood season is from March to May. This year has not been average at all," the New Orleans district's deputy commander, Maj. Jordon Davis, said Thursday. The water is diverted along a 6-mile (9.7-kilometer) course of guide levees to brackish Lake Pontchartrain, after which it flows to the Mississippi Sound in the Gulf of Mexico. Moby Solangi, director of the Institute for Marine Mammal Studies in Gulfport, Mississippi, said he's concerned about the spillway opening, because it means that polluted fresh water will flow into the Sound, a nursery for dolphins and endangered Kemp's ridley sea turtles. More of those animals died in April than in any April over the past five years, he said, with 28 dolphins and 57 sea turtles found dead. Solangi said many of the dolphins had lesions on their bodies from exposure to fresh water, which also damages oyster reefs and blue crabs, on which the turtles feed, and plants that are food for animals lower on the food chain. He said 73 dolphins and 79 sea turtles have died so far this year. That compares, for example, to 82 dolphin deaths in all of 2016, the highest annual total in the past five years. "We haven't even started the year and it's 73," he said. Davis said the Corps has received "very inconclusive" reports about the deaths from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. "The wildlife concern is very real," but the trigger point of 1.25 million cubic feet per second is set in law, he said. Boyett said a 3- to 5-year hydrologic study of the Mississippi and other rivers in Louisiana began recently. "It will help us understand if we're doing it the right way," he said. He also said opening the Bonnet Carre and the Morganza Spillway further upriver averted an estimated $250 billion in flood damages in 2011, about $170 billion of that in Louisiana. Officials said they don't expect to open the Morganza Spillway this year. Graschel said the lower Mississippi hit its first peak in March and never got down to normal. It could reach a seasonal norm until sometime in July if there isn't any additional significant rain in the Missouri and Ohio river areas, he said. Explore further Water surrounds Mississippi town as rivers rise across South 2019 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. Left image shows a single beating heart cell with a high-resolution deformation map. Right image shows multiple cells displaying a muscle twitch shown with a high-resolution deformation map. The colored dots represent individual muscle nucleus. The red and blue color maps indicate the variation of deformation. Red indicates that cells are extremely tensed (pulled apart); blue indicates that cells are extremely compacted. Using deformation microscopy to view a single cell at a micro scale, it's possible to see the deformation variation that takes place inside the cell. Credit: Cell Reports Researchers have developed a new technology that allows them to probe cell changes without disturbing the cell's physiologya major advancement that helps scientists look more closely at cell changes to solve human health problems, according to a new paper in Cell Reports. This technology, known as deformation microscopy, allows scientists to more accurately assess the interplay between biological systems and the mechanical environment in treating musculoskeletal, cardiac and neural diseases. Colorado State University Professor Soham Ghosh served as the first author on the paper, along with several researchers from University of Colorado Boulder. Advancements in regenerative medicine and developmental-biology-inspired technology have the potential to target major human health obstacles. With the team's discovery, scientists can get a clearer understanding of how the physical changes in cells contribute to cell developmentan area of study known as mechanobiology. Before joining CSU in fall 2018, Ghosh and his colleagues at CU Boulder developed the technology to non-invasively probe the mechanics of the biological system in high resolution using an image-based formula. The results were remarkable, unhindered images of the cell, and inside the cell nucleus, exposing the missing link between biological systems and the mechanical environment. By viewing and analyzing the cell and nucleus at high magnification, all the intricate structural architectures became visible. This helped researchers understand spatially detailed and dynamic cell deformation, which subsequently revealed how the subcellular and subnuclear regions behave in a normal physiological setting vs. a diseased setting. Mechanical probing in biology has been prevalent for almost two decades. Previous technologies were invasive, disturbing the physiology of the cell. Deformation microscopy produces a high-precision, microscopic image-based strain map which can quantify the affliction a cell and nucleus can sustain, revolutionizing what was previously known about mechanobiology. The paper was written by Ghosh, CU Professor Corey P. Neu, CU graduate student Benjamin Seelbinder and other contributors. "This technology can drive the field of mechanobiology at an unprecedented rate," Ghosh said. "The technique has proven powerful in several applications and is opening new avenues of research." Ghosh will leverage a variation of deformation microscopy and other methods to quantify biological phenomena in cells in his Cellular Engineering and Mechanobiology Lab, to investigate questions surrounding single cell changes in relation to stem cell function. Researchers can investigate, for example, why our individual tissues are functionally different despite having the same genetic code. His lab will study the interaction between the cell's immediate environment, epigenetics, and chromatin architectural organization of the cell nucleus. "Deformation microscopy will take the research in my lab to new heights, and I look forward to discoveries that will soon unfold due to this groundbreaking advancement," added Ghosh. Explore further Missing molecule hobbles cell movement More information: Soham Ghosh et al, Deformation Microscopy for Dynamic Intracellular and Intranuclear Mapping of Mechanics with High Spatiotemporal Resolution, Cell Reports (2019). Journal information: Cell Reports Soham Ghosh et al, Deformation Microscopy for Dynamic Intracellular and Intranuclear Mapping of Mechanics with High Spatiotemporal Resolution,(2019). DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2019.04.009 Feral cats kill millions of Australian animals a year. Credit: Shutterstock Introduced cats are a key threat to 123 of Australia's threatened species. The management of cats is challenging and divisive; many options such as rehoming, trap-neuter-release and euthanasia have been used around the world with varying success. Australia's recent commitment to killing 2 million feral cats to protect its native wildlife has attracted international attention and some have considered the project harsh. While the actual target of 2 million has been rightly criticised as arbitrary and more based on public relations than rigorous science, it's true non-lethal methods are not enough to stem the environmental havoc cats cause. Particularly in light of a UN report highlighting the world's extinction crisis, Australia urgently needs well-targeted cat culls. Non-lethal methods A range of effective non-lethal methods are already protecting wildlife from cats. Cat-exclusion fences have collectively improved the conservation status of many threatened species. In addition, an increasing number of Australian councils have created progressive cat management bylaws designed to protect pet cats, wildlife and humans from the effects of free-ranging cats. The centrepiece of many of these bylaws, supported by the vast majority of animal welfare groups, is the containment of pet cats on their owner's property. Indoor cats live longer, safer lives than cats that are allowed to roam. Stray cats are harder to manage. These are the cats that do not have a home, but may be directly or indirectly fed by people. Because they are unowned, no-one is officially accountable for their health or welfare. Groups of like-minded individuals feed and even provide veterinary assistance to some of these cats, further blurring the distinction between pet and feral cats. A trend promoted by "no kill" shelters and advocacy groups in some US states and Europe is for clowders (groups) of stray cats to be desexed, vaccinated and released back onto the streets. This process is called trap-neuter-release (TNR). A recent RSPCA best-practice cat management discussion paper proposed a trial of TNR in Australia too but there are very good reasons why this would be counterproductive for cat welfare. The risks of releasing unowned cats Informed animal welfare advocate groups, including PETA, strongly condemn the release of unowned cats, neutered or otherwise, due to the welfare risks to these cats. Human health professionals and wildlife advocates also oppose maintaining groups of cats. Research has suggested that cats kill around one million Australian birds every day. Image from Shutterstock Dense outdoor cat clowders are hotbeds of toxoplasmosis infections. This cat-borne disease is increasingly being linked to a range of chronic mental health conditions including schizophrenia and Alzheimer's disease. "No kill" groups that promote TNR erroneously claim that neutered cats significantly reduce the breeding potential of erroneously named cat "colonies", in the same way that release of neutered mosquitoes is a proven technique for controlling disease-bearing mosquitoes. One of us (John) has recently written a book on protecting wildlife and cats that suggests five fatal biological flaws in this logic: Neutering mosquitoes works because impotent individuals "swamp" short-lived wild insect populations that mate only once. By contrast, female cats typically mate repeatedly when on heat, so an encounter with a neutered tom is of little consequence. Unlike lions, domestic cats evolved as solitary hunters. While domestic cats can tolerate living in high-density clowders, they do not form hierarchical colonies, packs or prides where alpha individuals restrict the feeding, breeding or survival of subordinate animals. Although loud cat fights might make you assume males fight over the right to exclusively mate with a female, most litters of outdoor cats are sired by multiple males. Even supposedly "dominant" males seldom intervene when another male courts a female. Neutered male cats will not protect females in their clowder from non-desexed interlopers. This means that more than 90% of cats need to be neutered to restrict population increases, an incredibly challenging proposition. Despite the misleading label "colony", cat clowders are not closed populations. Rather, cats typically move around to take advantage of abundant food resources. And unwanted pets are often dumped at clowder sites. The failures of several well-studied TNR programs are attributed to cats migrating or being dumped at these sites. Despite needing repeated vaccinations to protect them from debilitating diseases, few stray cats can be captured a second time. And many can never be captured at all. This leaves them and their clowder effectively unmanageable. TNR is biologically flawed, cruel to cats because it returns them to a hazardous environment and ineffective when not accompanied by high levels of adoption. Harming marine ecosystems Not only do predatory cats harm native wildlife, but stray or feral clowders can also directly influence marine ecosystems and fisheries. Many commercial cat foods contain increasingly threatened predatory fish that are high in the food chain and hence use more nutrients and biological energy than plants or herbivores. US dogs and cats consume one-third of the animal-derived protein eaten by humans, with accompanying greenhouse gas emissions. The cat food provided to stray clowders adds to this biological expense. In 2009 alone, the US-based Best Friends Animal Society, one of the major promoters of TNR, distributed over 80,000 tonnes of cat food to unowned cats. There are no similar studies in Australia, and we appear to have far lower rates of stray-cat-feeding, but it is still part of the ecological impact of stray cats. Even more insidiously, seals, otters and dolphins in oceans around the world die from cat-borne diseases spread mainly from clowders. Humane euthanasia Fortunately, both science and animal welfare standards are consistent about management of cats. All healthy domestic cats for which safe homes can be found should be adopted or rehomed, then kept indoors following neutering and vaccination. All other cats, including ferals and strays that cannot be rehomed quickly, should be humanely euthanased. Feeding or releasing cats (neutered or otherwise) threatens our wildlife and perpetuates the cycle of suffering, disease, predation and social annoyance. Non-lethal options such as feral cat-proof fencing can still be part of the solution, but euthanasia remains an important part of controlling feral and stray cats to protect our native wildlife. Explore further ISFM takes a stand on welfare of unowned cats More information: Among the Pigeons: Why our cats belong indoors: Among the Pigeons: Why our cats belong indoors: www.wakefieldpress.com.au/prod id=1508&cat=0&page=1 This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. Social and cognitive skills such as drawing conclusions about emotional states and social interactions are least vulnerable to being displaced by AI. Credit: Shutterstock The future impacts of artificial intelligence (AI) on society and the labour force have been studied and reported extensively. In a recent book, AI Superpowers, Kai-Fu Lee, former president of Google China, wrote that 40 to 50 per cent of current jobs will be technically and economically viable with AI and automation over the next 15 years. Artificial intelligence refers to computer systems that collect, interpret and learn from external data to achieve specific goals and tasks. Unlike natural intelligence displayed by humans and animals, it is an artificial form of intelligence demonstrated by machines. This has raised questions about the ethics of AI decision-making and impacts of AI in the workplace. With computing power increasing rapidly in recent decades, the capabilities of AI have also risen dramatically. Vincent Muller, a philosopher at Eindhoven University of Technology, and Nick Bostrom, a philosopher at Oxford University, conducted a survey in 2016 about AI's future potential. Respondents indicated a 50 per cent likelihood that the capabilities of AI will exceed human intelligence by 2040 to 2050. Other technology leaders have predicted this will occur much earlier. Since AI continually learns and improves, a new form of AI super-intelligence may emerge well beyond human intelligence. How are universities responding to this challenge? Do traditional subjects and competencies taught in university need to be re-examined in view of the coming disruption of AI in the job market? As the Dean of Engineering and Applied Science at Memorial University, I'm concerned about this disruption from the perspective of skills that students should be learning to successfully adapt to AI in the workplace. 'Resilient competencies' Recently I supervised a project conducted by two undergraduate research assistants, Joud Omary, a computer engineering student, and Deep Patel, an electrical engineering student, on the susceptibility of various graduate attributes to computerisation. They analysed the probabilities of various student competencies becoming automated in the next 10 to 20 years. The most automation-resistant skills were determined based on a Brookfield Institute report which examined the probabilities of automation of work tasks over a range of occupations associated with university degrees. Repetitive skills like pattern recognition, information retrieval, optimization and planning are most vulnerable to automation. On the other hand, social and cognitive skills such as creativity, problem-solving, drawing conclusions about emotional states and social interactions are least vulnerable. The most resilient competencies (those least likely to be displaced by AI) included critical thinking, teamwork, interpersonal skills, leadership and entrepreneurship. Yuval Harari, a historian at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, described the rise of AI as a "cascade of ever-bigger disruptions" in higher education rather than a single event that settles into a new equilibrium. The unknown paths taken by AI will make it increasingly difficult to know what to teach students. The Virtual Marine Simulation Laboratory at Memorial University allows marine sectors to use AI-rendered scenarios for research and training. Credit: Greg Naterer, Author provided Economist Carl Frey, and engineer Michael Osborne, both at the University of Oxford, reported the susceptibility of a range of professions to computerisation including those associated with traditional university degrees, e.g., accountants, auditors, geoscientists. Interestingly, even for engineers who are significant developers of AI technologies, there is a susceptibility of various disciplines of engineering to computerisation. In such a context, "resilient competencies" are always relevant. Joseph Aoun, president of Northeastern University, and a linguist, argues in his book that what will matter most is experiential learning (co-op education), life-long learning and a curriculum focused on humanics (the study of human affairs). As AI technologies become more powerful and capable over a range of professions, it will become increasingly important for today's students to be equipped with the right skills that add value beyond what AI can achieve. As AI displaces old jobs, it will also lead to new jobs. 'Outcomes-based education' Traditional learning outcomes in engineering programs have included a strong knowledge base, problem analysis, design and the use of engineering tools, among others. But engineers today have a growing diversity of demands in their professional lives. Non-technical skills are increasingly important to work effectively in a business environment. These include communication skills, project management, life-long learning and the interdisciplinary impact of engineering on society and the environment. At Memorial University's Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science, one way that we have responded to this changing environment is by mapping the learning outcomes throughout the curriculum to ensure that all graduates of our co-op programs have a desired set of graduate attributes. For example, a traditional fluid mechanics course measured only the technical skills of the subject matter. Today, the course tracks a range of other learning outcomes such as communication skills through written reports and presentations. More broadly across the curriculum, it is determined where and how each graduate attribute is taught and evaluated for each course. The evaluation of each attribute is recorded, for example through a tutorial, exam question, or assignment. Appropriate rubrics are established for each attribute. Afterwards courses are evaluated and continuously improved to see how students are gaining the desired graduate attributes. Engineering students are also required to take complementary studies courses in other disciplines, such as humanities, to raise their awareness of the role and impact of engineering on society and culture. Memorial's Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences has strong links with the human literacy areas noted by Aoun. Across a range of disciplines from philosophy to political science, sociology to geography students work in teams, reflect on challenging ethical questions and engage in dialogue about important public concerns. Also, Memorial's Faculty of Business Administration introduces students to AI and provides exposure to a range of key non-technical business skills. To successfully manage organizations in which work processes will be redefined by AI, graduates will more than ever need to know how to build strong relationships, work in teams and communicate effectively. A shift in higher education from what students are taught in the classroom to learning outcomes instead and graduate attributes will become increasingly important with the rise of AI. A shift to outcomes-based education will enable students to gain critical automation-resistant competencies to succeed and thrive in the future workforce alongside AI. Explore further University isn't everything when it comes to employment outcomes This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. Credit: CC0 Public Domain A loose network of ride-hailing drivers took to the streets without their cars from San Diego to Atlanta on Wednesday as they protested ahead of Uber's highly anticipated initial public offering, which is scheduled for Friday. In Los Angeles, about two dozen protesters took time off work to gather in the early morning at LAX. Meanwhile, tons of working Uber and Lyft drivers dropped passengers off at the airport. In Long Island City, Queens, a lone protester held a sign that read "Uber, Lyft, Juno, Via drivers on strike" as several ride-sharing cars swarmed the area to pick up commuters requesting rides. Five days in advance, organizers urged drivers to abstain from using ride-hailing apps for durations ranging from two hours to a whole day. The action was poised to put a dent in Uber's biggest markets across the globe, organizers said. Uber told USA TODAY there was no noticeable impact in their daily operations. Only about a dozen drivers showed up to a rally in New York City's Financial District Friday morning, and according to local news outlets in Boston, it was a normal day at the airport for travelers trying to hitch a ride using an app. Though later in the day, drivers and protesters blocked traffic on Market Street in front of Uber's San Francisco headquarters. So what happened? It's hard to tell exactly. Experts say that everything from a disconnected workforce to disinterested drivers can be to blame. Not to mention, not everyone can take time off during peak driving hours to protest a job that their livelihood relies on. DRIVERS A wide range of people work for ride-share companies including college students looking to make extra money between classes and chauffeurs who support their families using the optional tips you leave at the end of your trip. That diverse and disjointed workforce might work against organizers who are hoping for big turnouts. "Some drivers will be deeply invested, and others may say 'I don't care about that,'" said Fabio Rojas, a professor of sociology at Indiana University who has written books on social movements. "There's a lot of natural variation that could keep a protest from getting off the ground." Unlike workers who share an office space, ride-hailing drivers typically don't have to interact with one another. While they may have coordinated social meetups, "those groups aren't really built for politics," Rojas said. "It's one thing to have a barbecue, it's another thing to set up a rally or to really encourage people to protest." Also, not everyone is dissatisfied with their jobs. Scott Steinbrink, 51, said that he's not protesting because he's happy with how much he makes driving for Lyft and he prefers the flexible schedule. "I enjoy my work. I enjoy driving. So I don't have any complaint," said Steinbrink, who resides in Atlanta. "We're not employees of Uber and Lyft. We're contractors. We decide our hours, not them. So I disagree with the protest entirely." RIDERS There's no doubt that passengers drive the demand for convenient rides. Ninety-five million people use the Uber app on a monthly basis. So while organizers urge riders to put down the app, many commuters have grown to depend on services like Uber and Lyft. Unlike factory work where a relatively small number of people could halt a company's output, a few drivers taking the day off hardly disadvantages commuters in competitive cities, Rojas says. "If you have tens of thousands of drivers in the area, even if a thousand got together to protest, the other 9,000 or so will still be driving," Rojas said. "And another 9,000 may not even know a protest is going on. But in a factory, you'll know if something is happening at work." ORGANIZERS Convincing people that their attendance matters is one of the biggest hurdles organizers of protests face, Rojas said. "No one wants to be the one guy out there in front of the Uber office with the picket sign," he said. In a digital age, organizers also have to contend with people feeling as though liking a tweet or donating $1 to a cause from their homes is enough to create change. Rojas used the term "slacktivism" to describe the type of protests that are easy to do but don't require much action. "That isn't the kind of thing that's going to change very much." And it's still unclear what outcome is even possible. As self-employed contractors, drivers don't have a legal right to form labor unions and negotiate contracts. By classifying workers as independent contractors instead of employees, Uber isn't required to pay certain taxes or provide benefits, overtime, or minimum wages to many drivers. Perhaps organizers and drivers are protesting to get the attention of legislators who can take action by raising wages, capping commissions and forcing ride-share apps to be more transparent. Will it work? Only time will tell. Uber was somewhat prepared for the strikes. Uber said in its filings that it expects "driver dissatisfaction will generally increase," as the company reduces driver incentives to improve financial performance. "This gig economy is new. It literally didn't exist in 2005. So nobody knows how to do effective protests in that way yet," Rojas said. "How would Uber drivers change their working conditions? Nobody really knows yet." (c)2019 USA Today Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. Agriculture including methane from cows and sheep currently contributes almost half of New Zealands greenhouse emissions. Credit: www.shutterstock.com, CC BY-ND New Zealand's long-awaited zero carbon bill will create sweeping changes to the management of emissions, setting a global benchmark with ambitious reduction targets for all major greenhouse gases. The bill includes two separate targets one for the long-lived greenhouse gases carbon dioxide and nitrous oxide, and another target specifically for biogenic methane, produced by livestock and landfill waste. Launching the bill, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said: "Carbon dioxide is the most important thing we need to tackle that's why we've taken a net zero carbon approach. Agriculture is incredibly important to New Zealand, but it also needs to be part of the solution. That is why we have listened to the science and also heard the industry and created a specific target for biogenic methane." The Climate Change Response (Zero Carbon) Amendment Bill will: Create a target of reducing all greenhouse gases, except biogenic methane, to net zero by 2050 Create a separate target to reduce emissions of biogenic methane by 10% by 2030, and 24-47% by 2050 (relative to 2017 levels) Establish a new, independent climate commission to provide emissions budgets, expert advice, and monitoring to help keep successive governments on track Require government to implement policies for climate change risk assessment, a national adaptation plan, and progress reporting on implementation of the plan. Bringing in agriculture Preparing the bill has been a lengthy process. The government was committed to working with its coalition partners and also with the opposition National Party, to ensure the bill's long-term viability. A consultation process in 2018 yielded 15,000 submissions, more than 90% of which asked for an advisory, independent climate commission, provision for adapting to the effects of climate change and a target of net zero by 2050 for all gasses. Throughout this period there has been discussion of the role and responsibility of agriculture, which contributes 48% of New Zealand's total greenhouse gas emissions. This is an important issue not just for New Zealand and all agricultural nations, but for world food supply. Another critical question involved forestry. Pathways to net zero involve planting a lot of trees, but this is a short-term solution with only partly understood consequences. Recently, the Parliamentary Commissioner for the Environment suggested an approach in which forestry could offset only agricultural, non-fossil emissions. Now we know how the government has threaded its way between these difficult choices. Ministry for the Environment. Credit: CC BY-ND Separate targets for different gases In signing the Paris Agreement, New Zealand agreed to hold the increase in the global average temperature to well below 2C and to make efforts to limit it to 1.5C. The bill is guided by the latest Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) report, which details three pathways to limit warming to 1.5C. All of them involve significant reductions in agricultural methane (by 23%-69% by 2050). Farmers will be pleased with the "two baskets" approach, in which biogenic methane is treated differently from other gasses. But the bill does require total biogenic emissions to fall. They cannot be offset by planting trees. The climate commission, once established, and the minister will have to come up with policies that actually reduce emissions. In the short term, that will likely involve decisions about livestock stocking rates: retiring the least profitable sheep and beef farms, and improving efficiency in the dairy industry with fewer animals but increased productivity on the remaining land. Longer term options include methane inhibitors, selective breeding, and a possible methane vaccine. Ambitious net zero target Net zero by 2050 on all other gasses, including offsetting by forestry, is still an ambitious target. New Zealand's emissions rose sharply in 2017 and effective mechanisms to phase out fossil fuels are not yet in place. It is likely that with protests in Auckland over a local 10 cents a litre fuel tax albeit brought in to fund public transport and not as a carbon tax per se the government may be feeling they have to tread delicately here. But the bill requires real action. The first carbon budget will cover 2022-2025. Work to strengthen New Zealand's Emissions Trading Scheme is already underway and will likely involve a falling cap on emissions that will raise the carbon price, currently capped at NZ$25. In initial reaction to the bill, the National Party welcomed all aspects of it except the 24-47% reduction target for methane, which they believe should have been left to the climate commission. Coalition partner New Zealand First is talking up their contribution and how they had the agriculture sector's interests at heart. While climate activist groups welcomed the bill, Greenpeace criticised the bill for not being legally enforceable and described the 10% cut in methane as "miserly". The youth action group Generation Zero, one of the first to call for zero carbon legislation, is understandably delighted. Even so, they say the law does not match the urgency of the crisis. And it's true that since the bill was first mooted, we have seen a stronger sense of urgency, from the Extinction Rebellion to Greta Thunberg to the UK parliament's declaration of a climate emergency. New Zealand's bill is a pioneering effort to respond in detail to the 1.5C target and to base a national plan around the science reported by the IPCC. Many other countries are in the process of setting and strengthening targets. Ireland's Parliamentary Joint Committee on Climate recently recommended adopting a target of net zero for all gasses by 2050. Scotland will strengthen its target to net zero carbon dioxide and methane by 2040 and net zero all gasses by 2045. Less than a week after this announcement, the Scottish government dropped plans to cut air departure fees (currently 13 for short and 78 for long flights, and double for business class). One country that has set a specific goals for agricultural methane is Uruguay, with a target of reducing emissions per kilogram of beef by 33%-46% by 2030. In the countries mentioned above, not so different from New Zealand, agriculture produces 35%, 23%, and 55% of emissions, respectively. New Zealand has learned from processes that have worked elsewhere, notably the UK's Climate Change Commission, which attempts to balance science, public involvement and the sovereignty of parliament. Perhaps our present experience in balancing the demands of different interest groups and economic sectors, with diverse mitigation opportunities and costs, can now help others. Explore further New Zealand unveils plan to go carbon neutral by 2050 This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. A powerful middle move into hot fractions proved more than enough for Elizabeth Fair's Waikiki Hanover ($7.20) in Wednesday night's (May 8) $10,400 Preferred 3 Trot at The Raceway at Western Fair District, as the son of Cantab Hall posted a dominant five-length victory. The nine-year-old gelding pressed the early pace a little bit after leaving from post 4, stringing out Full Of Pride (Marc St. Louis) and Avuncular (Scott Coulter) before yielding to their cutthroat :27.2 first-quarter duel. With just over a half mile remaining in the mile-and-a-sixteenth race, Robert Shepherd angled Waikiki Hanover out from third and the pair pushed clear of a taxed Avuncular on the clubhouse turn. Waikiki Hanover gained immediate separation up the backstretch, sprinting off by 4-1/2 lengths through three-quarters in 1:27.3 and at one point amassed a seven-length advantage while Avuncular was left struggling in pursuit. In the end, Waikiki Hanover prevailed by five lengths in 2:06.2. All Out Henry (Scott Young) circled three-wide on the final turn to take second, 4-1/2 lengths better than Katch Kanna (Tyler Moore). It was the 28th career win for Waikiki Hanover, and his third this season for trainer Alan Fair. To view Wednesday's harness racing results, click the following link: Wednesday Results The Raceway at Western Fair District. Novartis to acquire Xiidra, expanding front-of-eye portfolio and strengthening leadership in eye care Details Category: More News Published on Thursday, 09 May 2019 08:32 Hits: 1048 Xiidra (lifitegrast ophthalmic solution) 5% fits strategically within industry-leading USD 4.6 billion Novartis ophthalmic pharmaceutical portfolio, laying groundwork for front-of-the-eye pipeline products currently in development[1] Xiidra is the first and only prescription treatment approved for both signs and symptoms of dry eye disease with a mechanism of action that targets inflammation[2] Xiidra achieved USD 0.4 billion of revenue in 2018 and is well positioned for blockbuster potential; closing expected in second half of 2019, subject to satisfaction of customary closing conditions, including regulatory approvals Deal terms include a USD 3.4 billion upfront payment with potential milestone payments of up to USD 1.9 billion BASEL, Switzerland I May 9, 2019 I Novartis announced today that it has entered into an agreement with Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited to acquire the assets associated with Xiidra (lifitegrast ophthalmic solution) 5% worldwide. Xiidra is the first and only prescription treatment approved to treat both signs and symptoms of dry eye by inhibiting inflammation caused by the disease[2]. The transaction would bolster the Novartis front-of-the-eye portfolio and ophthalmic leadership. Closing of the transaction is expected in second half of 2019, subject to customary closing conditions including regulatory approvals. On closing, Novartis plans a smooth transition of operations and integration of Xiidra into its pharmaceuticals portfolio. Dry eye is a common inflammatory disease that, left untreated, can become extremely painful and lead to permanent damage to the cornea and vision[3]. This damage manifests in the form of signs that can be objectively measured by eye care professionals through various clinical tests (such as corneal staining), and symptoms (such as pain and discomfort). Xiidra, with its anti-inflammatory mechanism of action, is the first dry eye treatment approved to treat both the signs of eye damage and the physical symptoms experienced by patients. Additional benefits of Xiidra, exhibited in phase III studies, include a timely onset of action and well-tolerated safety profile. "Xiidra, with its unique dual benefits, is an example of the type of innovative advances we invest in for the benefit of patients," said Paul Hudson, CEO Novartis Pharmaceuticals. "We look forward to leveraging our well-established commercial infrastructure to bring this medicine to more patients." In addition to powering Novartis' ability to serve more patients suffering from eye disease, the additional commercial experience established with Xiidra is expected to better position the company for front-of-the-eye pipeline products currently in development. Deal terms include a USD 3.4 billion upfront payment with potential milestone payments of up to USD 1.9 billion. As part of the agreement, Novartis will be taking on approximately 400 employees associated with the product. About dry eye disease Dry eye disease is a multifactorial disease of the tears and ocular surface[3]. In the US, it is estimated that more than 34 million people are impacted by the disease[3]. It is diagnosed by an eye care professional based on patient-reported symptoms such as eye dryness, overall eye discomfort, stinging, burning, a gritty feeling or fluctuating blurry vision, as well as signs of damage to the eye's surface, which include redness and corneal damage that can be objectively evaluated by an eye care professional through various tests[4]. Dry eye disease can interrupt daily activities such as reading, driving, working, using technology and spending time outside in bright light and cold or windy conditions[3]. Aging and gender (more prevalent in females) are recognized as traditional risk factors of dry eye disease while modern risk factors include prolonged digital/computer screen time, contact lens wear and cataract or refractive surgery[4],[5]. Dry eye may be progressive and is one of the most common reasons people visit eye care professionals[6]. About Xiidra Xiidra is a prescription eye drop solution designed to treat the signs and symptoms of dry eye disease[2]. It is dosed twice per day, approximately 12 hours apart, in each eye[2]. Xiidra is approved to treat signs and symptoms of dry eye disease in multiple markets including the US, Canada and Australia. It is under regulatory review in a number of additional markets. Approximately 1000 patients were treated with Xiidra in four vehicle-controlled 12-week trials[2]. Each of the four studies assessed the effect of Xiidra on both the signs and symptoms of dry eye disease at baseline, week two, six and 12[2] In three of the four studies, a larger reduction in the eye dryness score (EDS) was observed with Xiidra at six and 12 weeks[2]. In two of the four studies, an improvement in EDS was seen with Xiidra at two weeks[2]. At week 12, a larger reduction in inferior corneal staining score (ICSS) favoring Xiidra was observed in three of the four studies[2]. The most common adverse reactions reported in 5 to 25 percent of patients were instillation site irritation, altered taste sensation (dysgeusia) and reduced visual acuity[2]. About Novartis in ophthalmology Novartis is reimagining the treatment and prevention of visual impairment and blindness. By working to push the boundaries of medicine and technology, we aim to develop life-changing gene therapies, next-generation pharmaceuticals, and transformative technologies for diseases and conditions spanning every area of eye disease, including front and back of the eye. About Novartis Novartis is reimagining medicine to improve and extend people's lives. As a leading global medicines company, we use innovative science and digital technologies to create transformative treatments in areas of great medical need. In our quest to find new medicines, we consistently rank among the world's top companies investing in research and development. Novartis products reach more than 750 million people globally and we are finding innovative ways to expand access to our latest treatments. About 105 000 people of more than 140 nationalities work at Novartis around the world. Find out more at www.novartis.com. Novartis is on Twitter. Sign up to follow @Novartis at http://twitter.com/novartis For Novartis multimedia content, please visit www.novartis.com/news/media-library For questions about the site or required registration, please contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. References [1] Novartis International AG. (2018). Novartis Q4 and FY 2018 Condensed Financial Report - Supplementary Data. Retrieved from: https://www.novartis.com/sites/www.novartis.com/files/2019-01-financial-report-en.pdf. [2] FDA. Xiidra (lifitegrast ophthalmic solution). Prescribing information. Available at: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2016/208073s000lbl.pdf. Accessed April 25, 2019. [3] Paulsen AJ, Cruickshanks KJ, Fischer ME, et al. Dry eye in the beaver dam offspring study: prevalence, risk factors, and health-related quality of life. Am J Ophthalmol. 2014;157(4):799-806. doi:10.1016/j.ajo.2013.12.023. [4] American Optometric Association. Dry Eye. Available at: https://www.aoa.org/patients-and-public/eye-and-vision-problems/glossary-of-eye-and-vision-conditions/dry-eye#1. Accessed April 25, 2019. [5] Sheppard AL, Wolffsohn JS. Digital eye strain: prevalence, measurement and amelioration. BMJ Open Ophthalmol. 2018;3(1):e000146. doi:10.1136/bmjophth-2018-000146. [6] Bradley JL, Ozer Stillman I, Pivneva I, et al. Dry eye disease ranking among common reasons for seeking eye care in a large US claims database. Clin Ophthalmol. 2019;13:225-232. doi:10.2147/OPTH.S188314. SOURCE: Novartis CORINTH A woman from Corinth was charged Tuesday with felony burglary and three misdemeanors for allegedly going into a home and attacking another person, police said. Tosha Jeremias, 35, was arrested after Saratoga County sheriff's officers were summoned to a home for a reported assault, police said. They determined Jeremias had gone into a home without permission, and injured another person in the presence of two children, according to the Sheriff's Office. She was charged with second-degree burglary, third-degree assault and endangering the welfare of a child, police said in a news release. She also was charged with harassment, a non-criminal violation. Jeremias was arraigned and sent to Saratoga County Jail for lack of bail. Love 1 Funny 13 Wow 1 Sad 4 Angry 6 Trial in the case of a man accused of robbing a bank in Lake George has been postponed as he tries to undo his felony convictions for unrelated assaults of his ex-girlfriend. Nelson L. Gouge Sr. was to stand trial in U.S. District Court this week for the Jan. 12, 2018 holdup at the Trustco Bank branch, which occurred as police sought him for a series of violent beatings of his then-girlfriend months earlier. The trial has instead been postponed until July 1, as he fights legal battles on two fronts. Gouge pleaded guilty in Warren County Court last November to 12 felonies and misdemeanors for those attacks, with the possibility of concurrent sentences with the bank robbery case if he was sentenced in the federal case first. Instead, the federal case has languished as Gouges lawyer files pre-trial motions in preparation for a jury trial. So with less likelihood of concurrent sentences, he asked Warren County Judge John Hall to allow him to withdraw his pleas to felony counts of aggravated criminal contempt, aggravated family offense, criminal contempt, misdemeanor assault and non-criminal harassment for a variety of violent incidents in 2017 with his then-girlfriend in Glens Falls. Gouges lawyer in Warren County, William Little, filed a motion in which Gouge claims he was coerced to plead guilty by his former lawyer in the federal case who argued he needed to resolve the state case before the federal case to avoid consecutive prison sentences. Warren County Assistant District Attorney Rebecca Nealon pointed out that Gouge pleaded guilty during a jury trial in the case, and that the pleas were voluntary. It was the defendant who said, Hey, I want to plead, I want to throw myself on the mercy of the court, she recounted. Clearly he knew what he was doing. The plea came after the defense negotiated a likely sentence of 6 to 12 years in state prison for the domestic violence charges Hall told Gouge he would rule on his motion to withdraw his plea in the coming weeks. Gouge, who has two prior felony convictions, is being held in Warren County Jail pending further court action. He faces a federal felony count of bank robbery for the theft of $4,301 from the bank after he handed a teller a threatening note. But enough of his face was visible from surveillance camera images so that numerous police and correction officers in the region who had dealt with Gouge over the years recognized him. He was arrested the next day at a motel in South Glens Falls. The lawyer who currently represents him in the bank robbery case, Lawrence Elmen, did not return a phone call for comment Thursday. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 2 I'm not on Facebook and do not post to Medium. Twitter has suspended me. I don't know why. mscriver@3rivers.net COMMENTS WELCOME unless they are anonymous. While the calendar shows its more than six weeks into spring, Mother Nature dealt a wintry blow to Minnesota with a winter-like storm that unleashed historic snow amounts in some locations on Wednesday into Thursday. This May snowstorm broke a 117-year-old record in Minnesota. May snowstorm breaks 117-year-old record in Minnesota. via Twitter/@NWSTwinCities The same storm system that brought an outbreak of severe weather to the South-Central states through the first portion of this week created enough cold air to produce a zone of heavy accumulating snow on its cold side. Snow records Duluth, Minnesota Snow fell along a zone from Sioux Falls, South Dakota, to Duluth, Minnesota. While not accumulating, snowflakes even managed to fall in parts of Minneapolis. Through Thursday morning, Duluth was blanketed with 10.9 inches of snow, leading to a number of broken snowfall records, according to data from the National Weather Service. Several snowfall records have already been broken for the Duluth area. The table in the image shows a list of these records. Stay tuned as the Monthly snowfall total and daily snowfall for today (5/9) are likely to change. #mnwx #mnclimate pic.twitter.com/nYbGyV6kZt NWS Duluth (@NWSduluth) May 9, 2019 The 8.3 inches set the all-time record for most snow on a single day in the month of May. The previous record was 5.5 inches, set on May 10, 1902. The burst of May snow also shattered the record for the snowiest month of May ever in Duluth, eclipsing the previous record of 8.1 total inches of snow set in May of 1954. It was also the snowiest May 8 in Duluth history as the more than 8 inches of snow surpassed the previous record for the day of 5 inches set way back in 1924. Record-keeping began in 1884. As of Thursday morning, the storm continued to drop snow on Duluth. While high temperatures rose into the 40s F in most places on Wednesday afternoon, temperatures fell into the middle 30s F by the early evening, allowing for a heavy, wet snow to fall. Despite overall mild conditions across the region earlier on Wednesday and earlier in the week, the snow fell heavily enough to stick to all surfaces, including roadways. Winter Weather Advisories are in effect beginning at 7 PM this evening until 10 AM tomorrow. Snow accumulation ranging from 1 to 4 inches with locally higher amounts are possible. The snow could cause slippery road conditions and lower visibility. #mnwx #wiwx pic.twitter.com/409F845ph8 NWS Duluth (@NWSduluth) May 8, 2019 Roads across northeastern Minnesota, including in the city of Duluth, were partially covered with snow, according to the Minnesota Department of Transportation. Numerous crashes were also reported, mostly from vehicles spinning out in the slushy road conditions. Troopers out w/several crashes and vehicles that slid off the road requiring Trp/tow assistance. This veh was WB on I-94 east of Albany when it ran off the road. pic.twitter.com/9ExlNRhxE1 Sgt. Jesse Grabow (@MSPPIO_NW) May 9, 2019 The snow gave some residents the ability to make snowmen and enjoy its overall beauty. Others had to face snow-covered and slippery travel. Troopers in central MN responding to several crashes (no life threat inj) Troopers currently out w/crashes I-94 Sauk Centre, Albany, St. Joseph and others scattered through the region. Snow is accumulating driver safely! pic.twitter.com/sbjYwgWb0P Sgt. Jesse Grabow (@MSPPIO_NW) May 8, 2019 The National Weather Service (NWS) in Duluth, Minnesota, received multiple reports of thunder and lightning with the snow in the Duluth and Cloquet areas as well as their local office. HELLO SNOW! Spring snow seen this evening from Culver, Minnesota. Photo courtesy of Deborah Moe. #Snow #MNwx pic.twitter.com/6pMn9xmCJy Mark Tarello (@mark_tarello) May 9, 2019 Snow continued to fall through much of Wednesday night. Drier conditions will return to end the week. With sunshine and highs returning into the 50s F in most areas, any areas of snow will likely melt by this weekend. Snow, heavy at times, continues to fall in the Twin Ports. Roads are snow covered and slippery especially at higher elevations. Here is a look at road conditions on I-35 near Thompson Hill. #mnwx pic.twitter.com/rVxDz2RXV6 NWS Duluth (@NWSduluth) May 9, 2019 Snow is not uncommon across Minnesota during the month of May. While it isnt likely to get heavier amounts of snow during the month of May, it certainly isnt unprecedented, AccuWeather Senior Meteorologist Matt Rinde said. Five years ago on May 2, Rochester, Minnesota, received 14.5 inches of snow, Rinde said. That area of heavier snow extended northeastward through western Wisconsin. For the city of Duluth, Minnesota, there is about a 1-in-7 chance for snowfall of an inch or more to fall during the month of May, according to Rinde. The last time this occurred prior to Wednesday was in 2010, when 4.5 inches of snow fell on May 7. Colorado Significant snow fell in parts of Colorado as well. Winter storm warnings and watches were posted in and around the Boulder and Colorado Springs areas on Thursday. Snow to continue today in the mountains, foothills and adjacent plains. A mix of rain and snow showers over the far plains. #cowx. pic.twitter.com/XyfNLPIZPb NWS Boulder (@NWSBoulder) May 9, 2019 A freeze watch, meaning the temperature could tumble below 32 F, was posted in Denver where many woke up to falling flakes. The snow made for a wintry scene at the University of Colorado Boulder campus on Thursday, where graduation was taking place. School officials reportedly soldiered on with commencement festivities despite the snow. It is ON at @CUBoulder, rain (#snow) or shine!!! #Boulder grads will still celebrate their big day with a commencement ceremony in about an hour. ? It starts at 8:30. Well be here! Photos courtesy: @eddiecastro55 #COwx #4wx @CBSDenver pic.twitter.com/yzMwJ1XA49 Mekialaya White (@Mekialaya) May 9, 2019 Meanwhile, some spots in Colorado piled up snow accumulations in excess of 10 inches. As of Thursday morning, Westcliffe topped the list with reports of 12 inches of snow, followed by 11 inches in Ward and 10 inches in Weston Pass. Snow in MAY!?! The weather is going crazy! Follow us on FACEBOOK and TWITTER. Share your thoughts in our DISCUSSION FORUMS. Donate through Paypal. Please and thank you [Accuweather] 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 On Tuesday the US military announced that B-52 Stratofortress strategic bombers will be deployed to the Middle East in response to what US Acting Secretary of Defence Patrick Shanahan dubbed "indications of a credible threat by Iranian regime forces." The US Central Command released photos of B-52H bombers assigned to 20th Expeditionary Bomb Squadron that arrived in CENTCOM area of responsibility (AOR). According to the description, the Boeing Stratofortresses "can perform strategic attack, close-air support, air interdiction, offensive counter-air and maritime operations to support stability in the region." With recovery efforts taking front and center, city and Scott County officials are encouraging business owners to keep track of cleanup, equipment loss, building damage and other adverse conditions caused by the historic flood that ripped through downtown Davenport last week. The directive was given Thursday morning in the Davenport Police Departments underground training center, where roughly 75 business owners had gathered seeking input for how to build back their businesses. Among those addressing the crowd was Davenport Mayor Frank Klipsch, saying local officials are committed to providing support to that end. Obviously for all of those who have been affected, not only do our thoughts and prayers go out to all of you, but now is a time to look at recovery and resilience, he said. Klipsch also said the city is creating a task force with the sole purpose of addressing flooding. More details about that group are expected to come within the next few days. Also outlined were several processes for area business owners to go through, including permit applications, guidelines for restaurants to reopen from a health standpoint, and emergency systems that may need to be reactivated in certain properties. California Gov. Gavin Newsom has issued an "executive moratorium ... in the form of a reprieve for all people sentenced to death in California." Does it really apply to all people? Or does it apply only to convicted murderers? Or just murderers who have intentionally killed one or more of their fellow human beings and whose convictions have been affirmed on appeal? Are fetuses people? Are full-term babies minutes away from a normal delivery people? Are newborn babies who have survived botched abortions people? When a California mother directs the abortion of such babies, and when her doctor acts as executioner, are these babies not people sentenced to death? In Newsom's California, it appears you have a choice: You can be logically and morally consistent, or you can be a progressive Democrat. You can't be both. Let's examine Newsom's justifications for reprieving convicted murderers. 1. "I just can't kill on behalf of the state. I have four young kids, and my daughter says to me, 'You teach us not to kill.' Yet here I am in a premeditated way killing other people." What will he know about his American family? Hell know hes royal when photographers incessantly snap his picture at events. But Im guessing that one of his first questions to his parents will be: Am I black? The answer: Yes, you are. And if he didnt guess it from looking at his light-skinned mother, then he need only look at his maternal grandmother, Doria Ragland, who lives in Los Angeles. Baby Sussex, now named Archie Harrison, will have an extraordinarily privileged life. We can only hope that he will live, eventually, in a post-racial world. Still, he needs to know about what it means to be a black person in the world today. Of course, it means dozens of things. His life will largely be his to make. There is no one black experience -- except, perhaps, a cop stopping you because you look like a suspect. I highly doubt thats going to happen to the young Sussex. Speaking of post-racial, the Obamas tweeted their congrats. Wait -- do I need to catch anyone up here? You all know that Harry and his older brother, William, are the sons of Prince Charles and the late Diana, Princess of Wales, who died tragically in the Paris car crash in 1997? OK, thats what I thought. That means they can issue speeding tickets that carry a fine of $375. A second offense costs at least $1,000, and if a driver records two in two years, she can lose her license for 90 days. And if the unthinkable happens, the penalty for hitting a worker is a fine up to $10,000 and 14 years in prison. Keeping workers, yourself and other motorists safe is not complicated. Simply remember to: -- Slow down. Follow posted work zone speed limits. -- Stay alert. Workers and heavy equipment may only be a few feet from passing vehicles. -- Be patient. You may need to slow down or stop due to traffic or construction work. -- Follow the signs, arrow boards and flaggers there to help guide you safely through the work zone. -- Dont tailgate. Rear-end collisions are one of the most common crashes in work zones. Of course, the most important reason to drive safely is that there can be deadly consequences if you don't. But if that's not reason enough to convince hard-headed drivers to slow down, Operation Hardhat has given you one more: Remember, that person sporting a hardhat and yellow vest you just whizzed past may have the power to do more than shake his head at you. He may have the duty to hand you a bill for $375, payable to the state of Illinois. Love 1 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 98 Degrees turns up the heat in Davenport on Saturday 98 Degrees will give you "just one night" Saturday, beginning at 8 p.m., at the Rhythm City Casino Event Center, 7077 Elmore Ave., Davenport. From 1997 to 2002, 98 Degrees sold 10 million records. The band collaborated with its collective idol, Stevie Wonder, on True to Your Heart, for the 1998 animated Disney film "Mulan" and scored a chart-topping single, Thank God I Found You, with Mariah Carey, according to a news release. In 1998, its 4-million-selling album, "98 and Rising," delivered Top 5 favorites Because of You, I Do and The Hardest Thing. Its next album, 2000s "Revelation," which sold 2 million copies, peaked at No. 2 on the Billboard 200 and yielded a trio of hits, Give Me Just One Night (Una Noche), My Everything and The Way You Want Me To." In 2001, the quartet decided to take a break, according to a release. Over the past 15 years, all four members brothers Nick and Drew Lachey, Justin Jeffre and Jeff Timmons have enjoyed careers outside of music. On Jan. 20, 2018, the Ford F-150 was recovered in Whiteside County, Illinois at the scene of another residential burglary where suspects were attempting to take a large gun safe. Police found other homes and barns in Whiteside County also had been broken into. A day later, the GMC Jimmy was recovered in Clinton, after it was involved in a crash with a parked car. A man was seen running from the vehicle after the crash. Blood, cigarette butts, and mail addressed to Tague were found in the vehicle. Evidence collected from the Eldridge home and the stolen SUV was sent to the state crime lab and a DNA profile was developed that matched a DNA sample taken from Tague. The lab also developed a second DNA profile from materials collected from the home, but it has not been matched with anyone. Sen. Chuck Grassley has been surprised by the controversy over the funding because usually the disaster relief fund is replenished by unanimous consent. So this political dispute over disaster money, especially as it related to Puerto Rico, is pretty surprising to me, the Iowa Republican said. You dont run into this very often. He predicted there will be at least one more disaster relief supplemental funding bill this year. Ernst sees a Senate plan being worked on by Republican Sen. Richard Shelby and Democratic Sen. Patrick Leahy as the path forward because it would be approved by the Senate and most likely by the House and signed by the president. One hiccup is that Trump is asking for funding for border security in the package as well. Its not for a physical barrier, Ernst maintains, but for more beds for families being apprehended at the border. Grassley also sees that as an impediment to approving the flood aid. I would think that would make it more difficult unless Democrats saw the need for additional funding as much for humanitarian needs as other reasons, he said Wednesday. Cannabis could come to the beach cities. This is how CEDAR RAPIDS The White House has rejected House Democrats demand that President Donald Trump turn over his tax returns, but Sen. Joni Ernst, R-Iowa, said the president should release them. He should voluntarily release them. Yes, she said Wednesday during a conference call with Iowa reporters. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin this week told majority House Democrats that he would not furnish the presidents tax returns despite a 1924 law that seems to explicitly give Congress power to request those documents. After consulting with the Justice Department, Mnuchin said potential privacy violations justify the decision to shield Trumps returns from Congress. Pressed on why she thinks its important for Trump to make his returns public, Ernst said she doesnt know that it is important. But I think there are a lot of folks that have stated that they want to see them, Ernst said. But I dont know what bearing that has on whether hes qualified to be president or not. Her comments follow publication Wednesday by the New York Times of tax information it received from someone it described as having legal access to Trumps tax returns for the years 1985-94. That information showed he lost more than $1.17 billion in that time and avoided paying income tax in eight of those 10 years. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 1 Sad 0 Angry 1 We get the same currents as the river on the street, said Betty Werner, Raabes neighbor. Werner recently returned home from a trip to Chicago, where her children live. Some neighbors have stayed elsewhere during the historic flooding, while others like Raabe have stuck it out. We have electricity and water. Were good, Raabe said. Just a few minutes north, Port Byron had left the worst of the flooding as of Tuesday. Water levels had fallen significantly, and major flooding appeared to have ended in the village. In LeClaire, water had receded along the riverfront, allowing low-lying businesses to open as normal this week. According to the National Weather Service, as of Tuesday at 3 p.m. LeClaire remained in major flood stage at 14.3 feet and falling Forecasts predict that the flooding might be downgraded to a moderate flood stage as early as Monday. In Rock Island, forecasts have local flooding in the major flood stage through at least Tuesday. Eleven Quad-Cities nurses from a variety of fields were honored for their hard work and giving natures at the first Nurses: Heart of Health Care awards, sponsored by the Quad-City Times in collaboration with Genesis Health System and UnityPoint Health-Trinity. With more than 100 nursing professionals nominated, a judging panel narrowed the field to 10 nurses and a Reader's Choice award recipient, Nicole Klemme. Allyson Cordoni was given the Career Impact Award for her work as a forensic nurse. The honorees received their awards and flowers at a luncheon at the Hotel Blackhawk. "Over the last year, we've gotten to know our health partners and have talked about the profession of nursing, the recruitment, what it takes to be a nurse, and so this seemed like the natural next step," Quad-City Times publisher Debbie Anselm said at the luncheon. "And so we were thrilled to be doing this in collaboration with our partners." "You see what they tackle, hear from the patients that they work with, and you can't imagine where that strength comes from day after day," Anselm said. "If we could just stop for a moment and say thank you, and give back a little bit of what they're giving day in and day out, it's an honor to do it." Latest report: Multiple people were arrested after they ran from a stolen car that was stopped in a PIT maneuver by Davenport police late Wednesday. The vehicle led police on a chase that began at 10:54 p.m. and ranged from West 14th and Marquette streets to north on Harrison street going against one-way traffic and then on to East Central Park Avenue. Davenport Police Cpl. Brandon Koepke was able to use the PIT, or Pursuit Intervention Technique, to cause the car to crash on the corner of East Central Park Avenue and Iowa Street. The chase did not last very long, only a matter of minutes, before police had the vehicle cornered and were taking those who fled from it into custody. Police formed a perimeter around the area and were able to capture at least four people from the vehicle, including a woman who proclaimed it was all gang stuff. The car they were in was a Subaru Crosstrek that had been stolen out of Rock Island. There were no reports of injuries. Earlier report: Police arrest three boys in connection with stolen vehicle in Davenport The federal disaster relief bill thus far has been held up over federal lawmakers disagreements: Democrats have demanded more funding for hurricane relief for Puerto Rico. Reynolds said approval by Memorial Day should be in time to help Iowans, given damage assessment is still ongoing. But she and other state and local leaders on the flood recovery board said it was imperative that Congress act. We really have to plug the holes on the western side, and theyve got to really wait for the water to go down on the eastern side. Theres things we can do. But its just knowing that (the federal assistance) is coming and that theres funding allocated, Reynolds said. It will go a long way in just easing some of the uncertainty. Reynolds said residents and businesses in western Iowa need that certainty as they decide whether to rebuild in an area that has been devastated by flooding twice in the past eight years or move. The more that we can demonstrate to them that were going to build it better than before, that they are going to be protected moving forward and the funding will be there as well, Reynolds said. No, Mitch McConnell, it isn't "case closed." No, Mr. Leader, it's not "finally over." No, we're not going to "end this." Neither will we "move on." We, as a nation, won't move on -- we can't move on -- because Vladimir Putin hasn't moved on. The majority leader took to the Senate floor Tuesday morning to declare his findings nearly three weeks after the release of the Mueller report. In summary: Nothing to see here. Move along. But even as the Kentucky Republican made that case, FBI Director Christopher Wray was nearby in the Capitol complex testifying to a Senate panel that "the malign foreign influence threat is something that continues pretty much 365 days a year." On April 23, Lori Gilbert-Kaye, 60, was killed in a Poway, Calif., synagogue when she jumped in front of a rabbi as a gunman burst into the building and opened fire on the congregations members. Gilbert-Kaye sacrificed her life in order to save the life of the rabbi and possibly other peoples lives located near them by her act of heroism. Gilbert-Kaye was described as always running to do a mitzvah (good deed) and offering tzedakah (charity) for all. Only a week later on April 30, a college student, Riley Howell, 21, died while rushing a gunman in Charlotte, N.C., who entered Howells University of North Carolina-Charlotte classroom and opened fired. Four others were critically injured. Howell chose to charge the assailant in an attempt to stop the gunman from inflicting further death. Howell was described as the kind of person who would take care of people the moment he met them, while radiating love and kindness. What would you or I do if faced with a similar situation? Truthfully, we would never know until such a catastrophic moment forced us to make a critical split-second decision of heart and mind. The word peace sounds so inviting. But presently, our country can't hear even a whisper of what "Peace Pilgrim" Mildred Lisette Norman, an American woman who shared her heart and physical body with others by walking and talking for peace. She walked a pilgrimage for peace. She talked of peace to anyone who would listen. She shared her heart-filled love for all people. For 28 years "Peace Pilgrim" walked across the United States. She wore a blue tunic that read "Peace Pilgrim" on the front and "25,000 miles on foot for peace" on the back. She took no money for her efforts. She never asked for food or shelter. But many people offered her a place to sleep, or a meal, which she often welcomed. In her birthplace, Egg Harbor City, New Jersey, there is a Peace Pilgrim Park that welcomes visitors in her name. Our nation could use a lot more "peace" and a lot less "contention" (heated disagreement.) And the Quad City Times could use a lot more letters like this one that takes away some of the mundane political argumentative topics. I, for one, like to read more letters regarding everyday people and events that bring peace of mind to the reader. Peace be with you. S. E. Persinger Davenport Love 3 Funny 1 Wow 1 Sad 0 Angry 0 Its summer vacation for Sioux County students and teachers, but for one teacher summer vacation wont end in August. The schools mathematics teacher, Barbara Engebretsen, affectionately known as Mrs. E., retired at the conclusion of the 2018-19 academic year, ending her teaching career in the same district where it began 45 years ago. Mrs. E. has truly been a blessing to our school system and community over the years. We could not have asked for a better teacher, employee, mentor, friend and community member, said Sioux County Superintendent Dr. Brett Gies during the districts graduation ceremony, at which Mrs. E. was recognized for her contributions. Engebretsen made a home in northwest Nebraska, discovering the beauty of the Great Plains after leaving Florida for a session of summer school in Wyoming. Though she was used to endless sunshine and the vast expanse of the ocean on the horizon, she found familiarity in the Great Plains. Heres what I like about the Plains, she told The Chadron Record in 2008 when she marked 35 years with the district. My family likes to fish, so we would go to the Everglades. You could look out and see vast expanses of grasslands. To me the Plains have attributes of where I grew up. Her interest in the Great Plains was sparked during a college work study program, where she worked with a secretary who shared stories about Wyoming. It prompted her to enroll in a session of summer school at the University of Wyoming in Laramie. After earning her bachelors degree from the University of Miami, where she played clarinet in the Hurricane Marching Band, she decided to return to Wyoming for graduate school. She earned her masters degree in mathematics education from the University of Wyoming and began searching for a way to remain in her now-beloved Great Plains. Mrs. E. had two job offers for teaching and thank goodness she decided to accept the offer from Sioux County where she has taught for the past 45 years, Dr. Gies said. As much as she loves her adopted environment, she loves the people and relationships shes found in Nebraska even more. I like the fact that through school, through quilting, I can go all kinds of places and see someone I know, Engebretsen said in 2008. Thats why I choose to be here and stay here. I dont know if that exists in the city. I wasnt an adult in the city, but I know it exists here. I personally will miss working with Mrs. E. She comes to school each day with a smile, a sparkle in her eye and a positive attitude. She is usually the first teacher to arrive greeting staff and students and the last to leave. She has been a strong supporter of our students and school, Dr. Gies said. I admire Mrs. E. for her passion and love for teaching still to this day. I see her interacting with students and sharing how math is at the center of everything we do though we may not realize it or see it. Her students over the years have frequently been reminded of a list of professions that use mathematics and have experienced real-life applications of mathematics. When Engebretsen and her husband, Lee, were building their home, for example, she brought projects to the classroom for students to work out, and in 2007 when Highway 20 was under construction, her students helped a contractor with a formula for a set of steps from the highway to a residence. It surprises students how much math is used in the world, Engebretsen said in 2008. You have to trust that what you learn now will have an application later. You dont have to like (math) but its to your advantage to learn to do it. In more than four decades of teaching, shes seen her students go on to serve on the local school board, become teachers or pursue other careers, and has even taught the children and grandchildren of some of her first students. Shes told all of them to find something they are passionate about and hopes shes inspired a life-long love for learning in general. You hope youre doing positive things to affect each group of students to give them a good foundation. I hope they leave here and say, Im just curious about the world. I guess Ill go out and learn something, she said in 2008. During graduation in April, it was apparent that Engebretsens hope of impacting each group of students has been fulfilled. There is a saying that while you may not change the entire world, you can certainly influence your small corner of it, Dr. Gies said at graduation. He asked all of Mrs. E.s students to stand, followed by a long list of other individuals: parents of her students, grandparents of her students, co-workers, friends and family members. With dozens of people standing, Dr. Gies reinforced Engebretsens impact. Mrs. E. and everyone here, this is what teaching is all about. This is what being a good person is all about. This is something far greater than any gold, silver money or any riches could buy, Dr. Geis said. Mrs. E. you have an enormous positive impact on our small corner of the world. Thank you for making SCHS the school that it is today and thank you for all you have given to our school, our students and our community. Engebretsen was presented with an honorary Sioux County High School diploma during the districts graduation. At her retirement party May 3, she visited again with many of those former students and parents of former students, still hoping they have found their passion and expressing appreciation for the joys of the last 45 years. Ive been very blessed, she said. You must be logged in to react. Click any reaction to login. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 BELLE FOURCHE | With the impending closure of Belle Fourche's Shopko Hometown store at the forefront of small-town consumer concerns, other longtime local businesses are betting on a strong future with young, fresh ownership taking over. A number of Belle Fourche businesses changing hands in recent months include, Wells Plumbing & Farm Supplies, Dakota Lumber/Do It Best Hardware, and Belle Flowers, Gifts and Decor. "Even with the closing of Shopko, we have a very vibrant business community in Belle Fourche," said Gary Wood, director of the Belle Fourche Chamber of Commerce. Wells Plumbing & Farm Supplies General Manager Bill Jewett will celebrate his 13th anniversary with Wells next week, after noting the start of his fifth month as part-owner of the longtime Belle Fourche business. Jewett partnered with Brian Hammerbeck and Pat Hall of Rapid City to buy Wells Plumbing from Allen Wells after the second-generation owner decided to retire. Allens parents, Jack and Mary Ann Wells, founded Wells Plumbing about 70 years ago, Jewett said. Wells Plumbing specializes in just about any household, commercial or plumbing and irrigation, culverts, rural water lines, septic systems and electrical needs over an expansive business area. We have customers from west of Gillette to east of Pierre and from North Dakota to Nebraska and up in Montana, so we have a wide customer range, Jewett said. The business employs four full-time and two part-time employees. We kept the same faces, Jewett said. When the customers come in, they didnt even notice the change. Jack Wells, who will soon celebrate his 96th birthday, often stops by the shop for a visit. Jewett wants the founder of the business 70 years ago to like what he sees. Jack and Allen always stressed good customer service, Jewett said. We want to work hard to keep up that tradition. Dakota Lumber Nate Bowman has been hanging around Dakota Lumber since he was a youngster, and worked there on weekends and during the summer through high school. Now he and his wife, Raelyn, own the business, which has been in his family since his grandparents, Dick and Arlene, bought the lumber yard in 1979 at 18751 US-85, just north of the intersection with Highway 212 in north Belle Fourche. His parents, Roger and Jean, eventually took over the business and then sold it to Nate and his wife when they decided to retire. The change of ownership was finalized in January 2018. Roger still chips in with advice, Nate said, but the changeover has been seamless. Nothings really changed, Nate said. We kept all the employees that have been with us for a while. Is it exciting or scary to take over a family business? A little of both, he said. My parents and grandparents did it for 40 years. Belle Flowers, Gifts & Decor This is a busy week for Belinda Christman at Belle Flowers, Gifts & Decor, at 619 State St. in downtown Belle Fourche. Sunday is Mothers Day, second only to Valentines Day in terms of sales for the floral business, but Christman, originally of Lemmon, brings years of floral and gift shop experience in Spearfish and at another shop in Belle Fourche to her shop, which she purchased from Diane Alcorn in a sale completed on Feb. 1. Christman was working at Posy Palace, just down the street, and happened to drive by Belle Flowers one day. I checked with Diane to see if the shop was for sale. It was, and it just went from there, Christman said. Besides fresh floral arrangements, and delivering to Newell, Spearfish and Whitewood as well as Belle Fourche, Christman offers home decor and baby clothing gift items. She takes pride in a 10 percent military discount with both her and an employee honoring sons serving in the U.S. Air Force. Both of us have sons that have a military background, so thats one of the things we want to put out there, Christman said. (Editor's Note: the above story has been changed to correct the names of Bill Jewett and Nate Bowman.) You must be logged in to react. Click any reaction to login. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Spy fact, not spy fiction Saga of the Chinese mole David Ignatius : Behind last week's admission by a former CIA officer that he plotted to spy for China lies an astonishing tale of Beijing's espionage against America - and the vindication of other CIA officers who were falsely suspected of being the Chinese mole. This saga has a classic thriller plot, in which a suspect must find the real villain to clear his name. Unfortunately, most of the details of the true-life version remain secret, under seal at the U.S. Attorney's Office in Alexandria or in the vaults of the CIA. But knowledgeable sources sketched parts of the story that aren't classified. Jerry Chun Shing Lee, who was a CIA case officer from 1994 to 2007, pleaded guilty May 1 to conspiring with Chinese intelligence agents to provide secret information. U.S. officials won't discuss the precise damage Lee did, but intelligence experts believe he was part of an aggressive Chinese spy operation that led to the exposure, arrest and execution of at least 20 CIA sources inside China. For an intelligence service such as the CIA, that's as bad as it gets. The resolution of the Lee case comes at a time when the Trump administration is threatening to escalate its trade war against Beijing to force China to stop stealing commercial secrets and allow fairer trade. The negotiations will hit a deadline Friday, when the administration has threatened to raise tariffs to 25 percent on $200 billion worth of Chinese products. Trump's hard-nosed and sometimes erratic bargaining tactics have roiled financial markets this week. But as the Lee case shows, the Chinese are hardly innocent victims. They have been burrowing deep into the CIA to steal its most precious secrets, as well as pilfering corporate data wherever they can. Lee pleaded guilty to only one count of conspiracy, and prosecutors said his plea agreement and an accompanying statement of evidence were "not intended to be a full enumeration of all of the facts surrounding the defendant's case." Asked if Lee had agreed to cooperate with the CIA in sharing additional details, his attorney, Edward B. MacMahon Jr., responded: "There is nothing in the plea agreement that deals with his cooperating." The hunt for a Chinese mole began after the CIA started losing its key sources in China in 2010. Lee, who first met with Chinese intelligence officers in April 2010, according to prosecutors, soon came under suspicion. Another suspect was a former senior case officer who had served in China when the blown network of spies was recruited. The senior case officer was eventually cleared, thanks to Chinese tradecraft mistakes that revealed their contact with Lee, a source said. The bungling came in Thailand in 2013, when Chinese spies made a sudden recruitment pitch to a former CIA operative who had worked with the senior case officer. She figured that someone had given the Chinese operative her name and told him it must have been Lee. Her Chinese would-be recruiter then foolishly blurted out: "No, I'm not handling Jerry. It's another team," according to a knowledgeable source. The former operative and her senior colleague promptly reported the conversation to the FBI, which added the Thailand evidence to its Lee file. In 2012, the FBI had copied two notebooks and a flash drive that Lee brought with him to Hawaii, according to prosecutors. That evidence helped lead to Lee's conviction last week. If Lee hadn't made his plea agreement, prosecutors were ready to present evidence about the secret meeting in Thailand, the bungled pitch and the Chinese admission of their relationship with Lee, a source said. The damage from this case still makes the intelligence community wince. "They wiped us out in China. All the networks we had were gone," one former official said. Officials speculate that the Chinese may have used their contact with Lee to unravel other communications and tradecraft secrets. "It was a double whammy: human sources and technical sources," the former official said. The Chinese mole case has been a subject of CIA corridor gossip, and occasional press stories, for several years. The CIA won't comment. MacMahon protests: "If someone wants to accuse my client of getting people killed, they should attach their names to that charge. It's not even part of this case." Here's a last Chinese riddle. Experts say that in the Thailand meeting, the Chinese operative asked the former CIA officer about cases that Lee shouldn't have known about. Which leads to an eerie question: Was there another Chinese mole, buried even deeper? Spy fact can be much scarier than spy fiction. (David Ignatius, Columnist, Washington Post) NIOBRARA, Neb. | People who suffered losses when the Spencer Dam failed in northern Nebraska have gotten more bad news: A state law limits the liability of the dam's owner. Nebraska Public Power District, which owns the dam, has said that the March 14 collapse of the more than 90-year-old dam was caused by a combination of high Niobrara River flows and massive chunks of ice. Attorney David Domina told a Monday gathering of homeowners, farmers and businesspeople in Niobrara that it would require exhaustive study to prove who is responsible for the significant losses from that day of flooding, the Norfolk Daily News reported. State law limits the power district's liability to $1 million per individual court-proven claim per occurrence and $5 million, total, for all such claims, Domina said. Knox County, which was one of four counties affected, already estimates that it suffered more than $17 million in damages. "So you see, the counties will claim damages. If any damages are awarded ... monies will dwindle quickly or be all gone," Domina said. "I know that is not what you want to hear. No matter who you are or the circumstances, the law is specific." Domina said Wednesday that he's been retained by a couple of the downstream landowners to investigate possible claims against the district, but he declined to name the clients. District spokesman Mark Becker reaffirmed the district's stance: An unprecedented amount of water and mammoth pieces of floating ice besieged a dam that was designed for the generation of electricity, not for flood control. The state's top dam safety official, Tim Gokie, also has blamed the ice and floodwater rather than the dam's age or any deficiencies. "With age comes problems with any infrastructure steel corrodes, concrete deteriorates over time," Gokie told the Omaha World-Herald last month. "But there's no indication that any of that led to the failure of the dam." One person was killed when the earth and concrete dam collapsed. The home of Kenny Angel, which was below the dam, was swept away by the wall of water and ice. His body still has not been found. Becker said he couldn't comment about the legal claim that Angel's family has filed against the district. You must be logged in to react. Click any reaction to login. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 MANDAN, N.D. | Authorities have charged four teenagers with multiple felonies in adult court for what they described as a riot earlier this year at North Dakota's youth prison. The four are accused of assaulting staff while trying to escape on Jan. 28 from the Youth Correctional Center outside of Mandan. Five male workers in supervisory or security roles received medical attention for minor injuries and did not miss any work time. Charges against the youths range from assault to terrorizing to escape. Elijah Barse, of Rapid City, South Dakota, appeared in court Tuesday and had bond set at $100,000, in part because he is considered a flight risk, The Bismarck Tribune reported. Court documents don't list an attorney for him. Gavin Johnson and Starson Buckles, both of Mandan, pleaded not guilty earlier and are set for trial July 10. Julian Wolf, of Bismarck, pleaded guilty in March and awaits sentencing. All of the boys are in their upper teens, according to court documents. They were residents of a housing unit for male juveniles considered high risk or high maintenance, according to the state Corrections Department. You must be logged in to react. Click any reaction to login. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Two deputies with the Pennington County Sheriff's Office are set to receive awards from a national police organization for rescuing a young girl during a three-hour armed standoff in Box Elder last fall. Senior Deputy Tana Tallon and Deputy Rusty Schmidt will receive an honorable mention from the National Association of Police Organizations (NAPO) during its annual TOP COPS Awards Dinner on Sunday in Washington, D.C., the sheriff's office said. Officers are nominated for the awards by co-workers, according to a NAPO news release. A panel comprised of national law enforcement representatives then selects 10 TOP COPS plus honorable mentions. Tallon and Schmidt were part of a multi-agency response to an Aug. 14 standoff in Box Elder where Justin Littrell, a 31-year-old from Yankton, broke into three homes, fired at law enforcement and held residents at gunpoint, according to a probable cause affidavit. Littrell entered the third home through a window. The girl was inside. "Theres nothing more terrifying for a mother than knowing your young child is in grave danger, home alone with a gunman whos just broken into your house," Tallon and Schmidt's entry in the awards booklet says. "On August 14, 2018, that nightmare scenario became a horrible reality for this mother when her nine-year-old daughter called her on the phone and said a man with a gun had just broken in." The mother told her daughter to run upstairs and hide inside the master bedroom on the second floor, the entry says. The mother then called 911 and Schmidt and Tallon arrived to help. "They were already aware that the armed suspect, Justin Littrell, was on the run from law enforcement and had recently fired his weapon at officers. Protecting the little girl was their first concern and they instructed her to bravely climb out a window as Deputy Tallon stood below to catch her. As deputy Schmidt provided cover, both deputies knew they were leaving themselves exposed to the armed Littrell, but they had to get the girl out of the house under any circumstance," the entry says. Still inside the girl's house, Littrell contacted Pennington County Dispatch and made a number of threats, claiming to have hostages, a grenade and counting down as if he were threatening to shoot someone, his affidavit says. He also demanded that a helicopter land in the backyard. After speaking with a negotiator, Littrell exited the home around 12:30 p.m. and was taken into custody. Littrell has pleaded not guilty to 22 felony charges, including attempted first-degree murder and first-degree kidnapping. Contact Arielle Zionts at arielle.zionts@rapidcityjournal.com. You must be logged in to react. Click any reaction to login. Love 1 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Sign up for our Crime & Courts newsletter Get the latest in local public safety news with this weekly email. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. PIERRE | After hearing hours of testimony, a South Dakota environmental board has denied an activist group's motion to compel the release of information on TransCanada's proposed Keystone XL pipeline's potential impacts on state water resources. Environmental activism group Dakota Rural Action argued to the state's Water Management Board on Wednesday, May 8, that TransCanada, state departments, and certain private individuals should be required to divulge documents and information relevant to public interest or potential litigation about the pipeline project. If built, the Keystone XL would carry crude oil from Canada through Montana, South Dakota and Nebraska and would connect with other pipelines. Attorney for Dakota Rural Action Bruce Ellison said that he is trying to see if state officials have been pressured to grant TransCanada water permits, or if the project could do more harm than good to the state. He said this information is relevant to the Water Management Board's ultimate decision whether to grant TransCanada the permits, or to any future litigation challenging the permits. "Were requesting this information so we can best try to protect our groundwater and our surface water from being used in this fashion," Ellison said after the hearing. "If this board makes a decision that we feel is improper, we can go to court after that to challenge that if theres basis to do that." The Water Management Board operates under the state's Department of Environment and Natural Resources and will ultimately decide whether to grant permits to use public water for the pipeline construction. Ellison argued that TransCanada, as well as the DENR Water Rights Program and private individuals who have agreed to use their land for crew camps, should be compelled to provide information to Dakota Rural Action. He said he has informally requested information already, but hasn't felt that the responses were adequate. The board's hearing officer Rodney Freeman said Ellison's motion to compel "is not proper," but said Dakota Rural Action can work to obtain information from the parties "as set forth in the order" to be released in the coming days. "Apparently theyre going to give us a different road map that they would prefer that we seek this information," Ellison said. Attorneys for TransCanada, the DENR Water Rights Program and the individuals argued to the board that they are not legally required to provide all of the information that Dakota Rural Action is requesting. Assistant Attorney General Ann Mines Bailey said DENR Water Rights has provided Ellison with as many of his requests as the program had access to. Though the board didn't grant Dakota Rural Action's motion, they did grant a similar motion made by activist Elizabeth Lone Eagle of Howes, S.D. Asked why the board would grant Lone Eagle's motion but not his own, Ellison said, "I havent the faintest idea." "Im going to wait until I read the written order," he said. Dakota Rural Action is a plaintiff on the American Civil Liberties Union's federal lawsuit against state officials, including Republican Gov. Kristi Noem and Attorney General Jason Ravnsborg, for the state's laws on rioting and "riot boosting." The ACLU said the laws violate First Amendment rights to free speech and protest. You must be logged in to react. Click any reaction to login. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Much is written about the cost of prescription drugs in the U.S. and possible alternative pricing strategies, including importation of less expensive drugs from our neighbor, Canada. Unfortunately, there is no easy answer to this dilemma. Government-controlled drug-pricing is not the answer. In fact, government-controlled pricing (in Canada, the countries of Europe, Japan, and other developed countries) has largely contributed to our present issues. With prices controlled by government in those countries, big pharma is left principally with the U.S. as the only free market for drug pricing where they can recover real costs. In that scenario, patients and insurers in the U.S. effectively subsidize patients in the rest of the world. Despite illusions to the contrary, the U.S. government does not generally subsidize big pharma for research and development of new drugs. Through the NIH, the U.S. government does fund some very early basic drug research in the laboratory for discovery of new chemical entities (NCEs). A typical government-funded laboratory project to discover and initially test an NCE can cost from several tens of thousands of dollars to a few hundred thousand dollars. NCEs emerge from both federal government-funded laboratories and from big pharma. However, after initial discovery, NCEs must undergo extensive pre-clinical (animal) and clinical (people) testing (advanced development) before they can be approved for marketing in the U.S. by the FDA. The U.S. government provides little funding for advanced R&D of new drugs. Such R&D is principally funded by big pharma. On average many thousands of NCEs enter advanced development before a single new pharmaceutical or biological agent (requiring extensive, demanding, and complex pre-clinical and clinical testing) can be successfully submitted to the FDA for marketing approval. Costs for such advanced development typically run into billions of dollars and many years (10 to 15) before a drug can be marketed to physicians and patients. During that time, patent life (19 years) is running out, and a drug company may have only a few years to recapture development costs before the patent has expired and generic versions of the drug can be manufactured and sold by other manufacturers. Additionally, the number of patients for whom the drug is indicated may be limited, perhaps as few as several hundred patients per year. Hence, individual patient costs may be very high: i.e., a few billion dollars of development costs must be recaptured from a relatively small patient population over a few years. Its helpful for all of us to understand the realities and dynamics of drug development and marketing before making demands on the pharmaceutical industry and drug pricing that may make future drug development unsustainable. I.e., if the demands that we see daily to lower drug costs in the U.S. to the levels we see in Canada or Europe come to fruition, we may have to say goodbye to new miracle drugs (or medical devices) in the future. Our dilemma is not a simple problem attributable to greedy pharmaceutical companies that can be solved by government control of drug prices. Government is not the answer. Government may be part of the problem. Dr. Rodney Michael of Rapid City is a retired medical doctor and the retired chief of Blood Products Advanced Development for the U.S. Army and Department of Defense. You must be logged in to react. Click any reaction to login. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 A Billings man has been indicted for allegedly defrauding a Canadian bank in an oil tanker scheme. Todd Capser, 47, was arrested Wednesday in Billings by the FBI on an indictment from the U.S. Southern District of New York. Prosecutors accuse Capser of providing misleading information about his assets to leverage $43.3 million from a Toronto lender identified only as "Financial Institution 1." In a related civil lawsuit filed in U.S. District Court in Montana, the lender is identified as Third Eye Capital Corporation of Toronto. Capser's business is identified as "Wayfare Transoceanic." The money was to pay for chemical and oil shipping tankers bought from a Hong Kong shipping firm. Capser apparently bought the tankers at $20 million apiece with the intention of leasing them back to the shipping company for $8,500 a day. Afterward, Capser allegedly solicited similar investments from at least nine other lenders. Activities in the indictment begin in 2016. Other fake items were presented as collateral, including the phony $400 million proceeds from the sale of a fake cattle ranch. Todd Capser, as alleged, managed to mislead a Canadian financial institution into lending him more than $43 million, and tried to mislead other financial institutions into lending him tens of millions of dollars more, by creating mountains of false evidence of his solvency to represent himself as a legitimate business owner," said U.S. Attorney Geoffrey S. Berman in a press release. "Capser is now in custody and faces significant time in prison for his alleged crimes. The FBI also identified Capser's father, Edward Michael Capser, as being part of the scheme, though criminal charges have not been filed against Edward Michael Capser. The father and son are both defendants in the related civil lawsuit. The father is known as an artist in the Billings community. Filed in a federal district court in Montana on April 10, the civil lawsuit identifies Edward Michael Capser as backing the $43 million loan with a bogus investment portfolio worth at least $30 million. No one answered the phone Wednesday when The Billings Gazette attempted to contact Edward Michael Capser. In addition, Todd Capser is also alleged to have fabricated fake email accounts for employees of Bessemer Trust, a legitimate company presented by Capser as managing the bogus portfolio. The phony email accounts were then used to give TEC daily updates about the bogus portfolio, which the Capsers promised never to drop below $30 million. Last December, Bessemer informed TEC that the trust company had no investment portfolio for Edward Michael Capser. The man had never been a customer, according to Bessemer. U.S. attorneys in New York also faulted Todd Capser for fabricating family emergencies to explain his odd behavior. "In addition, in an effort to engender sympathy, deflect questions, and explain suspicious behavior, Capser falsely represented to certain of the Financial Institutions that his daughter was terminally ill with cancer," the U.S. attorney said. Capser has been charged with wire fraud, felony conspiracy to commit wire fraud, and aggravated identity theft. If convicted, the Billings man could face up to 43 years in prison. Capser was a former state director for the late U.S. Sen. Conrad Burns, R-Mont. A decade ago, he was profiled in the Billings Gazette "40 under Forty" feature of up-and-coming professionals younger than 40 years old. 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Zinc stocks plummeted from 900,000 tonnes (kt=1,000 tonnes) at the beginning of 2014 to around 120,000kt five years later - due to a rash of zinc mine closures over the past few years and tighter environmental restrictions in China, which is lessening the amount smelters can produce. Antaike, a Chinese metals research firm, estimates national production of refined zinc in 2018 fell to just 4.53 million tonnes, the sharpest downturn since 2013, Reuters said. The result has been a record amount of zinc imported into the worlds largest metals consumer, 715,355 tonnes of refined zinc in 2018. The high demand in China has also pulled a lot of zinc out of LME warehouses. In February zinc inventories fell to the point where there was less than two days worth of global consumption locked in London Metal Exchange warehouses. The paucity of the metal used to prevent rusting caused prices to spike to the highest theyve been since last June. Zinc prices were US$2,845 a tonne or $1.29 a pound, after data showed LME warehouses held just over 58,000 tonnes. For perspective, the all-time high for zinc was $2.07/lb in 2006, compared to historic lows below 40 cents back in the early 2000s. The supply noose loosened at the end of March, however, causing prices to fall, but theyre on the rise again. The trigger was 10,625 tonnes flowing into exchange warehouses, causing a price slippage to $1.27/lb, on April 16. Two weeks of slack prices appear to over, though. The industrial metal has made a slow recovery from $1.29 a pound on April 19 to its current $1.32/lb. The story is much the same for lead. Due to smelting restrictions, China imported 128,000 tonnes of refined lead last year, the most since the financial crisis of 2008. For the first three-quarters of 2018, world refined lead demand outstripped supply by 110,000 tonnes, notes the International Lead and Zinc Study Group. In February 2019, lead inventories in LME warehouses plunged by over a third, to their lowest levels since 2009, only enough to cover one week of global demand. Inventories in Chinese warehouse were depleted by 70%, as that country continued to curb output in the worlds biggest market for automotive lead batteries. A report by Wood Mackenzie quoted by Reuters, states that any primary lead smelter in China that fails to get its discharge permit this year will be shut down. Meanwhile secondary lead production is expected to keep contracting. Just this week, it was reported that Chinas demand for refined imports of lead and zinc are keeping pace with last years torrent; during the first three months of 2019, net refined zinc imports were up 2%, from 128,000 to 139,000 tonnes. Uses Zinc is the fourth-used metal today, behind only iron ore, copper and aluminum in terms of annual tonnage produced. Zincs main function is to galvanize metals. Adding a zinc coating to steel or iron protects it against rusting. In fact zinc offers a double layer of protection: the top layer serves as a barrier coating, the bottom layer actually attracts more oxidation than the underlying metal surface; when this layer becomes oxidized, it wears away, leaving just the top layer. Related: Brazils Top Hedge Fund Dives Head First Into Petrobras A high percentage of steel that goes into buildings and automobiles, is galvanized with a zinc coating, making it a highly-prized metal. Indeed, making rust-proof cars could not take place without zinc. The metal is used in many stages of the assembly line, including engine parts, fuel systems and chassis, where components are plated with zinc. Zinc-coated parts are reportedly able to withstand up to 1,000 hours of salt spray testing. Auto manufacturers in the US have, for the past 25 years or so, been using a zinc-nickel-alloy for plating. The nickel adds to zincs anti-corrosive properties, and provides a lustrous sheen. Zinc alloys including brass are used in corrosion-resistant marine components and musical instruments. While its primary use is to stop metal from rusting (for example galvanized steel used in automobile production or bridge-building), other applications are shoring up demand. Adding zinc to fertilizer increases soil productivity, and there is research being conducted to develop a nickel-zinc battery for use in electric vehicles. The US Naval Research Laboratory is working with EnZinc, a California-based firm, on technology that the companys founder said should be ready within the next two years. Zinc, of course, is already used in alkaline batteries - a type of battery that gets its energy from the reaction between zinc and manganese dioxide. There are also zinc batteries. Both zinc and alkaline batteries are useful for low-drain appliances like TV remotes and clocks. The difference between the two is the type of electrolyte - ammonium chloride for zinc batteries and potassium hydroxide for alkaline. Generally, alkaline batteries have a higher capacity and a longer shelf life than zinc batteries. This is because with zinc batteries, both the casing and the anode are made of zinc; the casing is prone to leaks and eventually gets eroded away by the acidic electrolyte inside. With alkaline batteries (which also contain zinc), the batterys metal body is used to house the anode, which is in powder form ie. it doesnt erode the casing. Any discussion of zinc would be incomplete without a mention of its medical uses. Zinc is an essential mineral for the human body and zinc deficiency is a serious condition, remedied by zinc supplements. Infrastructure metal Zinc is also used heavily in infrastructure build-outs. This includes desperately needed bridges, public buildings, power stations, dams etc. in the US, much of the developing world, and Chinas Belt and Road Initiative which along with needing billions of tonnes of copper, is going to require a lot of steel containing zinc. According to the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), the US needs to spend $4.6 trillion between 2016 and 2024 in order to upgrade all its infrastructure to an acceptable standard. But only $2.6T has been earmarked, leaving a funding gap of $2 trillion. The amount of pipe rehabilitation, the number of dams that need to be upgraded, new ports, airports, bridges, power plants etc., will require billions of tonnes of raw materials. Were talking iron ore, steel, zinc, manganese, vanadium and copper, just to name a few key metals. Zinc is mostly used in steel fabrication to prevent rusting; it is an essential component of galvanized steel bridges; highways, railways, and high-rise buildings all use zinc. We only need to look to China, once again, to see how the demand for zinc is poised to skyrocket. Beijing is keen to advance its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), consisting of a vast network of railways, pipelines, highways and ports that would extend west through the mountainous former Soviet republics and south to Pakistan, India and southeast Asia. So far over 60 countries, containing two-thirds of the worlds population, have either signed onto BRI or say they intend to do so. According to the Center for Foreign Relations, the Chinese government has already spent about $200 billion on the growing list of mega-projects projects including the $68 billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor. Morgan Stanley predicts Chinas expenditures on BRI could climb as high as $1.3 trillion by 2027. Zinc is among the metals China is looking to source from its 60-odd-country trading block. Beijing is willing to lend money to fund construction projects in nations such as Kenya, Laos, Peru, Sri Lanka, Greece, Serbia and the Philippines. These projects are sure to contain such mined commodities as copper, steel, zinc, etc. Tight supply The zinc market was in deficit in 2018. According to the USGS, despite new zinc mines opening in Australia and Cuba in 2017, and increased production at the Antamina mine in Peru, supply failed to keep up with consumption. The International Lead and Zinc Study Group states that global refined zinc production in 2018 was 13.42 million tons versus 13.74 million tons consumed, leaving a deficit of 322,000 tons. Some very large zinc mines have been depleted and shut down in recent years, with not enough new mine supply to take their place. MMGs shuttered Century mine for example used to supply 4% of the worlds zinc. Between the shutdown of the Lisheen mine in Ireland, Century, and Glencores Brunswick and Perseverance mines in Canada, over a million tonnes was ripped from global zinc production. The closed mines represent an estimated 10 to 15% of the zinc market. On the flip side, there have been few discoveries or big zinc projects planned. This is setting the zinc market up for a supply shortage. Related: Banks Are Doubling Down On Risky Credit Card Debt The International Lead and Zinc Study Group predicts the zinc market will again be in a deficit position of 72,000 tonnes in 2019. BMI Research noted in June 2018 that refiners, particularly in China, will have a hard time securing zinc concentrate, due to zinc mine production curtailments. Tightened environmental standards to deal with choking air pollution in China, meant that Zijin Mining cut 8.2% of its zinc production in 2017. Chinese smelters rely heavily on imported zinc ore. In 2017 Chinas refined zinc production was at its lowest in two years due to problems acquiring zinc concentrate. The supply squeeze is also trickling down to junior zinc explorers. When zinc prices were low, exploration dried up, meaning theres not enough new supply to match the growing demand for zinc especially for galvanized steel, Jeff Hussey, president and CEO of Osisko Metals, recently told Kitco News: The world needs more zinc mines but we dont have them because there has been no exploration. If you had all the expected development projects come on line at full capacity, analysts expect that demand will still outstrip supply by mid-2020, he said. This means there is a limited risk of further downside in the price long term. Wood Mackenzie states that zinc mine closures, attrition and demand growth will require 2.2 million tonnes of new mine capacity a year. VMS The majority of the worlds zinc deposits contain lead, meaning lead and zinc are mined together. Sphalerite is zincs main ore and is usually associated with galena, the lead mineral, and chalcopyrite, the copper mineral. Zinc and lead mineralization generally occur together, within limestone, in veins associated with granitoids, and as volcanogenic massive sulfide (VMS) deposits. The latter can also contain precious metals. VMS deposits are estimated to have supplied over 5 billion tonnes of sulfide ore. They currently account for 22% of the worlds zinc production, 9.7% of the lead produced, 6% of copper, 8.7% of silver and 2.2% of gold. An estimated 900 VMS deposits are found worldwide, averaging about 17 million tonnes each. And they are still being formed, mostly along tectonic ridges where plate movements form cracks in the earths crust - allowing a conduit for ancient minerals to travel up through hot liquids and be deposited, through billowing white and black clouds, onto the sea floor. The Iberian Pyrite Belt running through Spain and Portugal has about 90 VMS deposits, with some larger than 100 million tonnes. Large VMS mines are in Scandinavia including Bolidens Garpenberg mine, a 120-million-tonne VMS monster. VMS deposits in Canada include Flin Flon, Bathurst, Snow Lake and Noranda. They have long been recognized, by both majors and juniors, as potential elephant country and because of their polymetallic content these types of deposits continue to be one of the most desirable because of the security offered against fluctuating prices of different metals. They can also have long lives. The Kidd mine in Quebec, the deepest base-metal mine in the world, is a VMS deposit that has been in production since 1966. By Richard (Rick) Mills More Top Reads From Safehaven.com: It might have been a long time coming, but its finally happened: U.S. online ad revenue has reached the magical $100-billion zenith for the first time ever. A report commissioned by the Interactive Advertising Bureau (IAB) and conducted by PwC shows that internet advertising revenues in the country increased 21.8 percent in 2018 to $100.7 billion, a record for the industry. In sharp contrast to the industrys double-digit growth, traditional ad formats including TV and radio continue being lackluster. TV advertising expanded 1.4 percent while radio could only manage an anemic 1 percent growth over the timeframe. Meanwhile, print media fared even worse, with newspaper advertising shrinking 6.9 percent while magazine advertising fell 2.1 percent. Primed for growth The impressive digital growth numbers confirm healthy momentum in an industry that appears primed for multi-year growth. Zooming in on industry trends reveals more or less what we have already become accustomed to: the usual suspects, Google, Inc. and Facebook, Inc., hogging ad dollars, but this time with a new twist: Amazon, Inc. emerging as a genuine contender for top ad vendor slots. The report says 75 percent of ad revenue was concentrated with the top 10 ad vendors during the final quarter of 2018, but the trio could take as much as 70 percent of all revenue by 2021. Amazon is likely to be the big winner, with digital ad revenue expected to grow 50 percent to reach 8.8 percent of overall revenue in 2019. Google and Facebook investors though can rest easy-- the duopoly is expected remain unflappable, ceding only minimal market share to Amazon--eMarketer provided estimates in February that their combined market share will fall just 60 basis points from 59.3 percent at the beginning of 2019 to 58.7 percent two years later. (Click to enlarge) Source: eMarketer Regarding the performance of different digital ad formats, the IAB report says mobile and video continued leading digital marketings growth, with mobile jumping 40 percent Y/Y to hit $69.9 billion while digital video revenue expanded 37 percent to 16.3 billion. Erstwhile red-hot social media advertising, however, may be losing some of its shine. While still impressive, last years growth clip of 30.6 percent clocked in well below the torrid compound annual growth rate of 46.6 percent for the period spanning 2012-2018, as per PwC. But that was probably the only blip in the report. The report called out revenue stemming from the emergence of the direct-to-consumer marketing model as a key driver of some of that growth. eCommerce companies are increasingly using consumer data such as browsing and purchasing history to let marketers reach their audiences programmatically in highly targeted ways. Newer elements like shoppable ads as well as more sophisticated search capabilities are increasingly turning clicks into actual conversions. Digital advertising overtakes traditional in 2019 The outlook for the industry is just as bright in the near-term: the digital ad industry is expected to achieve yet another milestone by overtaking traditional advertising in 2019. eMarketer estimates the industry will expand another 19 percent in the current year to hit $129.34 billiongood for 54.2 percent of total US ad spending. Mobile is expected to continue its dominance, taking more than two-thirds of digital ad dollars, at $87.06 billion this year. Related: Banks Are Doubling Down On Risky Credit Card Debt However, that does not mean that everything is going to be rosy. The reports points to potential headwinds introduced by a changing regulatory environmentand there is no shortage of those, including from unexpected quarters. Case in point is Democratic presidential candidate Sen. Elizabeth Warrens proposal to break up Amazon and other tech giants, something thats likely to sit very well with Trumps administration. Though not exactly antitrust concerns, her views chime with Trumps saying these companies have too much power over our economy, our society, and our democracy. Further, newly enacted regulations like the EUs GDPR as well as the California Consumer Privacy Act are increasingly impacting U.S. companies. Nevertheless, the consensus seems clear: the digital ad industry has no lack of growth runways and will continue to dominate the ad landscape for many years to come. By Alex Kimani for SafeHaven.com More Top Reads From Safehaven.com: Indian Christian who built mosque hosts iftar for 800 Muslim workers PTI, Dubai : An Indian Christian businessman, who built a mosque for Muslim workers in the UAE, is serving iftar meals to nearly 800 workers during the ongoing month of Ramzan. Saji Cheriyan, 49, who hails from Kerala's Kayamkulam, built the mosque last year for Muslim workers living in a worker accommodation that he rented out to 53 companies in Fujairah. Aiming to get a better pulse on the issues of concern to Santa Marias youth, the Mayors Task Force on Youth Safety is set to launch two new The Santa Maria City Council on Tuesday adopted an ordinance expanding the legal avenues city officials can take to curb the use of illegal fireworks an issue that has resulted in a large number of complaints from residents in recent years. Villalba, Gressel score to lead Atlanta past Toronto 2-0 Atlanta United midfielder Darlington Nagbe (left) and Toronto FC midfielder Michael Bradley chase the ball during the first half of an MLS soccer match in Atlanta on Wednesday. AFP, Atlanta : Atlanta United is starting to resemble the team that won the MLS Cup five months ago. Hector Villalba and Julian Gressel scored to lead resurgent Atlanta to its third victory in a row, 2-0 over Toronto FC in a matchup of the last two MLS Cup champions Wednesday night. After a sluggish start under new coach Frank de Boer, United (4-3-2) is finally rounding into its expected form. Atlanta dominated the stat sheet, piling up a 19-8 advantage in shots, knocking two attempts off the post and preventing Toronto from putting any balls on net. Goalkeeper Brad Guzan extended his scoreless streak to three games without much effort, giving the 3-year-old Atlanta franchise its first victory over Toronto FC in five matches. "This shows the confidence is growing," de Boer said. "It's a big step forward against a very good team." After Josef Martinez was denied on a couple of chances in close, Atlanta broke through in the 17th minute. The play was set up by Ashtone Morgan's hard foul on Gressel just outside the box, giving United a dangerous free kick. Pity Martinez launched one over the wall, only to have Alex Bono make a brilliant save diving to his left. But Josef Martinez hustled after the rebound, sending the ball back in front where Villalba flicked it past the keeper for his first goal of the season. Villalba got a chance to shine, moving into the starting lineup with Ezequiel Barco called away by the Argentina national team for the FIFA U-20 World Cup in Poland. Villalba nearly scored again late in the first half, shifting the ball from one foot to the other to get away from four defenders before banging his shot off the post. "He's unpredictable," de Boer said. "You never know what he's going to do. He's difficult to defend. He's so quick. I know he wants to play. This is his time." In the 65th, Villalba knocked another one into the net off a pass from Josef Martinez but the play was nullified by an offside penalty. Just 2 minutes later, United struck again with a goal that counted. They may not be terribly prolific, but when Grindhouse Releasing announces a new release, it's definitely worthwhile to listen up. Grindhouse, purveyors of quality horror and exploitation cinema since the late '90s, have recently announced that they've completed a 4k restorations of Umberto Lenzi (Cannibal Ferox, Spasmo, Eyeball) Eurocrime classic The Tough Ones, also known by the incredibly badass title, Rome Armed To The Teeth. This upcoming Blu-ray will not only include the brand new restoration, but also a host of special features including an audio commentary from Eurocrime expert Mike Malloy, interviews with many of the cast and crew, Roberto Curti liner notes, a CD of the soundtrack and much more! This 3-disc set is going to be a scorcher! The first 2,500 copies will also come with a specially created "custom 30-caliber bullet pen", so get your orders in soon! Below you'll find the full details along with a trailer to give you a taste of the insanity of this true gem of Italian gonzo action cinema. "Unusual State Capital Punishments" | Main | "4 Ways To Win A Presidential Pardon Under Trump" This new lengthy New York Times article discusses the (unsurprisingly) reality that local prosecutors in California keep bringing capital charges even though the state's chief executive has impose a moratorium on execitions. The piece is headlined "California Has a Moratorium on Executions. Prosecutors Want New Death Sentences Anyway." Here are excertps: Gov. Gavin Newsom, a Democrat, issued a moratorium in March on executions in the state, which has more death row inmates than anywhere else in the Western Hemisphere. But that decision has not stopped local prosecutors from seeking new death sentences, underscoring the divide in the state between conservative prosecutors and liberal reformers like the governor. And as liberal as California voters are generally, as recently as 2016 they rejected a ballot measure that would have abolished capital punishment, and approved another one to fast-track executions. These divisions, experts say, are setting the backdrop for what could be a contentious fight as Mr. Newsom takes new steps beyond the moratorium to abolish capital punishment. For now, the moratorium amounts to temporary reprieves for each of the 737 men and women on Californias death row, which will last for the duration of his time as governor. Its got to be really confusing for the average citizen who sees both things going on and doesnt understand how all of the above can be occurring, said Michele Hanisee, the president of the Association of Deputy District Attorneys in Los Angeles County. She is seeking a death sentence in one of her cases: The man accused of being a serial killer, Alexander Hernandez, who is charged with killing five people in a shooting rampage in the San Fernando Valley in 2014. The simple answer is this: The district attorneys of the state of California took an oath to uphold and follow the law, Ms. Hanisee said. I think the governor probably did too, but he doesnt care. The governor, she added, does not have the legal authority to tell them not to seek death or not to follow the law. New death sentences in California have declined in recent years 2018 was a record low, with five new sentences. The drop aligns with a national trend, as public support for capital punishment has waned and juries have been reluctant to impose death sentences in the face of evidence of racial disparities and high-profile exonerations. Before Mr. Newsoms moratorium, 20 other states, including most recently Washington and Delaware, had abolished the practice.... California, while maintaining a large death row, has not executed anyone since 2006. There were longstanding legal challenges to the states lethal injection protocol that had halted executions even before Mr. Newsoms moratorium. In an interview, Mr. Newsom said his administration was considering several new steps to dismantle the states capital punishment system, and that his moratorium was a first step on what he hoped was a path that ended with abolition. He said his advisers were studying how he could commute the sentences of current death row inmates to life without parole. Mr. Newsom has the power to commute sentences in which the inmate has only one felony, but more than half of the death row population has at least two felonies; to commute those sentences would require approval from the State Supreme Court. Mr. Newsoms advisers are focusing on the Supreme Courts decision to block several pardons or commutations though not for death row inmates issued by former Gov. Jerry Brown before he left office in January. Those rejections were the first time in decades the court had blocked a governors commutations, and Mr. Newsom has asked the court for an explanation. He hopes the explanation will offer some guidance that will allow us to form better judgment on next steps if we want to look to commutations on the capital punishment side.... Mr. Newsom also said he was discussing with the attorney generals office what role the state could play in blocking prosecutions of new death sentences. But legal experts say this power is limited: The state could decline to defend capital cases on appeal, but it does not have the power to order district attorneys, who are elected at the county level, to not seek death. One possibility is that the attorney general could take cases away from local prosecutors. But experts say that is unlikely and would be unprecedented. I have not seen any indication from our attorney general that they want to impose the governors view and take cases away from us so that we cannot seek capital punishment, said Anne Marie Schubert, the Sacramento County district attorney, who is part of the prosecution in the Golden State Killer case. Ms. Schubert added that, Capital punishment is the law in California, and just because Gavin Newsom has a personal opposition to it doesnt mean that we as prosecutors abandon our obligation to enforce the law in the appropriate cases. Im not this zealot about the death penalty, but it is the law. Richard Leech, executive director of CBRE Cambodia, giving attendees an overview of the Phnom Penh property market (Credit: Albert Chua/ EdgeProp Singapore) Over the weekend of May 4 and 5, the EdgeProp International Property Show 2019 held at Suntec Convention Centre attracted a crowd of 500, with five developers Oxley Holdings, Eco World Development Group, Genesis Indojaya, Mitsubishi Estate Residence (represented by JLL), and Wee Hur Holdings marketing their projects from around the world. One key consideration in promoting international properties is to equip the potential investor with a good understanding of the project, says Darren Chua, co-founder and equity adviser of Genesis Indojaya, a Jakarta-based property developer. To achieve this, we always need to work hard to furnish the potential investor with the salient details of the property as well as relevant ancillary information such as commercial attractiveness, risks and economic profiles of the country/area. The scale model of London City Island, which comprises 1,600 residential units and 20,000 sq m of office space (Credit: Albert Chua/ EdgeProp Singapore) To that end, EdgeProp Singapore lined up experts to share with the public their insights into the property markets in Malaysia, Cambodia, Indonesia, Japan, the UK, and Australia. This was to ensure that the investors have a clear grasp of the market before investing in any assets. The extensive line-up of seminars and robust Q&A sessions after the talks were very well planned, commends Chua. These complimentary sessions augmented the sales and marketing efforts of the various exhibitors and aided in creating a good base context for many of the projects exhibited at the property show. Feng shui consultant Joey Yap was one of the partners for the EdgeProp International Property Show 2019 (Credit: Albert Chua/ EdgeProp Singapore) Widya Lestaluhu, senior director and head of international residential for Singapore and Indonesia at JLL, says: The crowd, although in smaller quantity than expected, seemed to be of good quality. The crowd was asking all presenters relevant and inquisitive questions. This showed their genuine interest and experience in overseas investment. Meanwhile, the speakers showed in-depth knowledge and expertise in their respective markets, she adds. Story continues The strong engagement levels during the event made a big difference in our marketing because this created valuable opportunities for our team to interact personally and candidly with many potential investors, says Genesis Indojayas Chua. Overall, JLLs Lestaluhu found that the event was helpful in reaching out to savvy investors outside of our own clientele. She adds: Participating alongside other exhibitors was also great in encouraging cross-border and co-broking efforts with people in the industry. See Also: Tamaraws (Bubalus mindorensis) | Photo courtesy: IUCN-SSC-AWCSG ORIENTAL MINDORO, Philippines The population of Tamaraws (Bubalus mindorensis) is declining, based on the result of the Tamaraw Count 2019 initiated by the Mindoro Biodiversity Conservation Foundation (MBCF). The initiative is part of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Tamaraw Conservation Project in cooperation with the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) and other stakeholders. The Philippine Tamaraw is included in the International Union for Conservation of Natures (IUCN) Red List of Threatened Species and is classified as critically endangered because its population trend is described as decreasing. Conservationists blame human activities such as poaching and habitat destruction as the main reasons for the decline in Tamaraws population. This year, their number at the Mounts Iglit-Baco National Park in Occidental Mindoro has reduced to 480, a 43 calves lower than 523 Tamaraw count in 2018. Bubalus mindorensis, also referred to as Mindoro dwarf buffalo, is a small hoofed mammal belonging to the family Bovidae. It is the only endemic Philippine bovine in the island of Mindoro. Marje Pelayo The post Humans blamed for decline in population of PH tamaraws appeared first on UNTV News. Naomi Osaka rolls into quarterfinals in Madrid, Kei Nishikori advances World No. 1 Naomi Osaka delivered an improved display to reach the quarterfinals of the Madrid Open on Wednesday, beating Aliaksandra Sasnovich 6-2, 6-3, while Petra Kvitova and Simona Halep also made it into the last eight. Osaka had a hard-fought, three-set win over Sara Sorribes Tormo in the previous round but had a smoother match against Sasnovich, who she had brushed past 6-0, 6-0 on route to her U.S. Open triumph last year. The Belarusian showed a little more resistance this time and Osaka was forced to save two break points on her way to taking the first set and comfortably saw out the second to set up a meeting with unseeded Belinda Bencic of Switzerland. "I think I played well today. But I knew that I had to because I've played her twice before already and it was on hard court and then I didn't know what to expect today so I tried to stay as focused as I could," Osaka told reporters. "I'm in a really good place right now. I feel like I'm having fun playing tennis again which is always a good thing and I always play well if I have that mentality." Kvitova, the Madrid champion in 2018, beat France's Caroline Garcia 6-3 6-3 to set up a rematch of last year's final with Kiki Bertens in the quarterfinal. Halep, champion in 2016 and 2017, will meet Ashleigh Barty of Australia after thrashing Viktoria Kuzmova 6-0, 6-0, losing only 12 points in the entire match which she described as her best-ever performance. "I think it was the best match that I have ever had. I remember once I won 6-0 6-0 in 2016 in Bucharest (in) the final, but it's the best match and I'm happy with the way I played," the Romanian said. Sloane Stephens beat Zheng Saisai of China 3-6, 6-3, 6-2 and will meet Petra Martic, who earned a second walkover in a row when her compatriot Donna Vekic retired in the third set of their match. Martic was leading 3-0 in the third, after losing the first set 4-6 and winning the second 6-3. In men's action, Kei Nishikori and Stan Wawrinka was to face in the third round on Thursday after Nishikori took just over two hours to win 7-5, 7-5 against Bolivian qualifier Hugo Dellien and Wawrinka defeated Argentina's Guido Pella 6-3, 6-4. The Swiss has won his last two matches against Nishikori, including a three-set victory in Rotterdam in February, when he went on to reach his first final since undergoing knee surgery in 2017. MANILA, Philippines The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) is mulling over filing inciting to sedition charges against Peter Joemel Advincula and a certain Maru Nguyen in relation to the controversial Ang Totoong Narco List video series posted online. Advincula was the man who claimed to be the hooded figure named Bikoy in the video series that implicated some of the members and close allies of the Duterte family to the narcotics trade. READ: Man claiming to be Bikoy asks help from IBP Nguyen was identified by Rodel Jayme as the one who contracted him to create a website later used to host the videos. NBI cybercrime division chief Atty. Vic Lorenzo told UNTV News and Rescue on Thursday that the charges could be filed if Advincula fails to present evidence to support his claims against the first family. Yung inciting to sedition, puwede namin siyang i-file-an nun on the theory of conspiracy at the same time, mayroon ding aspect diyan na cyber libel and at the same time, mayroong aspect din diyan ng violation of Anti-Violence Against Women and Children Act, Lorenzo said. In the controversial clips, Bikoy claimed to be a former member of a drug syndicate operating in Luzon who supposedly had access to its list of members and financial records. He also accused presidential son Paolo Duterte, former Special Assistant to the President Bong Go and Lawyer Manases Carpio, the husband of Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio. When Advincula surfaced on Monday to claim he was Bikoy, Lorenzo said, his confession could be used as evidence against him. He willingly confessed na siya yung nag-participate or siya yung gumawa ng video. That could be an evidence against him, he said. If Advincula submits enough evidence to prove his claims against the Duterte family and close associates, Lorenzo said, these could help authorities in going after those he accused of having links to the illegal drug trade. Kung he could prove and validate and substantiate yung mga allegations niya. Siyempre, team ang government in going after yung drug trade dito sa Philippines, that could help yung law enforcement kung mai-su-substantiate niya kung may katotohanan yon, he said. Story continues The Department of Justice (DOJ) has indicted Jayme on inciting to sedition charges for violation of Article 142 of the Revised Penal Code, in relation to Section 6 of the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012. READ: Prosecutors find probable cause to indict Jayme The DOJ said in a resolution that state prosecutors found probable cause to charge the 27-year old website creator over the spreading of videos damaging to the Duterte family. By creating a website and subsequently posting videos that allege the involvement in the drug trade and the receipt of pay-offs of the President of the Philippines and members of his family, including the Presidents minor daughter, is not an exercise of his freedom of speech and expression, but a clear act to rouse among its viewers a sense of dissatisfaction against the duly constituted authorities, the DOJ said in its 13-page resolution. Lorenzo believes they have an airtight case against Jayme, but he could still turn state witness if he is able to substantiate his claims that he was only hired to create the website and had nothing to do with the uploaded videos. READ: Jayme possible as state witness but no assurance yet NBI READ: Rodel Jayme denies knowledge of uploaded Bikoy videos Jayme earlier denied any knowledge of the viral narco list videos, reiterating that his conscience is clear and that somebody else controls the account. (with details from April Cenedoza) The post NBI: Advincula, Maru Nguyen could face inciting to sedition charges appeared first on UNTV News. Pipes carrying water from Malaysia to Singapore run alongside the Causeway in Johor Baru, Malaysia. (FILE PHOTO: Reuters/Edgar Su) SINGAPORE Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan told Parliament on Wednesday (8 May) that, while Malaysia wants to raise the price of supplying its water from Johor to Singapore, the more pertinent concerns for Singapore are to increase the yield of the Johor River, and to safeguard its environmental conditions especially the quality of water. Dr Balakrishnan was providing an update on the state of bilateral relations between the two countries, following last months Malaysia-Singapore Leaders Retreat in Putrajaya. He revealed that he and his Malaysian counterpart Saifuddin Abdullah have been tasked to follow up on the water issues raised at the retreat. This include identifying appropriate and timely measures, including additional schemes, to increase the Johor Rivers yield and to safeguard the rivers environmental conditions. Grave concerns over multiple pollution incidents During the retreat, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong had highlighted Singapores grave concerns about the multiple pollution incidents which have affected the Johor River, such as the recent case of ammonia pollution last month. This is the seventh pollution incident in the Johor River since 2017, which led to a shutdown of our (Johor River) Waterworks, Dr Balakrishnan said. Further, Johor has built at least two water treatment plants upstream of PUBs Johor River Waterworks, and we also note that the future demands for water in Johor will increase. These two Malaysian plants, combined with our Johor River Waterworks, are currently drawing more water from the Johor River than it can yield on a sustainable basis. These issues, if not addressed, will compromise Singapores right to abstract our full 250 mgd (million gallons per day) entitlement of water under the 62WA (1962 Water Agreement). They will also affect the water supply for Johors own growing needs, and action needs to be taken expeditiously to avoid a potentially more intractable issue in the future. Story continues Spore prepared to provide bilateral assistance Responding to a query by Nominated Member of Parliament, Associate Professor Walter Theseira, on whether Singapore is prepared to provide bilateral assistance to Malaysia to safeguard the Johor River watershed, Dr Balakrishnan said that Singapore has already been doing so for a very long time. He cited the example of the construction of the Linggiu River dam, which has been operating since the 1990s. I would have to remind everyone, including the Malaysians, that Singapore paid for it, he said. We paid for its construction, we paid compensation; in fact, our estimate is that over the years, weve probably spent over $1 billion on such projects. So there should be no question about our willingness to engage and assist on a technical level in order to further projects which ultimately have win-win consequences for both Johor and Singapore in the long term. I should also add that these investments that we have made in Linggiu Reservoir ultimately, they are owned by Malaysia... I say all this so that I hope the Malaysian people appreciate that Singapore has been a constructive, helpful, reliable and honest partner. Challenges in maintaining quality of water supply Dr Balakrishnan added that the challenge facing Malaysia in maintaining that quality of assured water supply is not just a technical one. It also means having strict laws against littering and pollution, and careful long-term planning what type of economic activities are allowed in the water catchment area. The authorities in Johor are aware of this, and within their own limits, they are trying to address it, he added. I do want to add one more point that actually PUB has an excellent relationship with the water agencies in Johor. Weve worked very well. There is no problem at the technical level. Updates on rail projects Dr Balakrishnan also provided an update on the Johor Bahru-Singapore Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link Project. He said that Singapore will consider Malaysias proposal to suspend the project for six months from 1 April, similar to the arrangements made for the suspension of the Kuala Lumpur-Singapore High Speed Rail project. Both sides are currently working out the details of the Supplemental Agreement to effect this proposed suspension, he said. On the issue of congestion at the Causeway and Second Link, both Prime Ministers agreed to explore initiatives, including the use of new technology, for enhanced security and checkpoint efficiency. PM Lee shared Singapores plans to upgrade the Woodlands Checkpoint to meet growing traffic needs, and to ensure that immigration clearance remains secure. Singapore believes that the RTS Link and the HSR Projects are mutually beneficial projects that will significantly ease congestion, facilitate business and tourism, and bring the people of Malaysia and Singapore closer together, Dr Balakrishnan said. Malaysia wants to review these projects, and we have agreed for this review to be done in the spirit of bilateral cooperation. The ball is now in their court, and we hope that Malaysia will find a way forward in the projects within the period of suspension that they have requested. More parliament stories here. Related story: 7 pollution incidents along Johor river have caused PUB plant's temporary shutdown since 2017: Masagos Hundreds gathered in a New York cathedral on Tuesday to pay tribute to the protesters that were brutally suppressed in Beijings Tiananmen Square crackdown three decades ago, kick-starting commemoration of its approaching anniversary in the United States. At the Cathedral of St John the Divine near Columbia University, around 300 people assembled for an evening of poetry, music and speeches to celebrate the courage - and mourn the sacrifice - of students who led a wave of pro-democracy demonstrations that swept China in 1989. We're here because 30 years ago, millions of Chinese protested for change, unified as a hope for freedom and democracy, said Zhou Fengsuo, a student leader of the movement who now lives in exile in the US. For many of us, this was the first and only time that we tasted freedom in China's sphere, he said, standing on a makeshift stage at the heart of the cathedral, surrounded by audience on three sides. The peaceful demonstrations led by Zhou and others occupied Beijings Tiananmen Square for weeks before Chinese troops, backed by tanks, opened fire on protesters on the eve of June 4. Estimates of the dead ranged from the hundreds into the thousands. Discussing the crackdown remains the biggest political taboo in mainland China, where people have been detained or even jailed for attempts to commemorate it. Hong Kong remains the only place on Chinese soil where the crackdown is commemorated in public every year, with a candlelight vigil attended by tens of thousands. We're here to celebrate the human spirit that would never be conquered by tanks and machine guns, Zhou said to loud applause that resounded through the long, high nave of the cathedral. This was the first time a major event commemorating the crackdown had been held inside a large cathedral in the US, according to Zhou, who helped organised the evening. The first time I came here, it immediately occurred to me that this would be a perfect venue to commemorate June 4 - for its solemnity, he said before the event started. Now my dream has come true. Story continues The special occasion, presented by the cathedral, Humanitarian China and PEN America which featured it as part of its World Voices Festival is among the first to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the crackdown four weeks away. Three decades ago, on May 7, the protests were already in full swing. By then, Peoples Daily, the ruling Communist Partys mouthpiece, had already published a damning editorial accusing the protesters of conspiring to overthrow the government, calling the protests a turmoil. This enraged students and prompted a bigger protest the following day, with tens of thousands marching through the streets to Tiananmen Square in the heart of Beijing. A week later, student leaders began a hunger strike, which would draw widespread sympathy from the wider public, with workers and residents taking to the streets in support. Wang Dan, one of the student leaders of the hunger strike, traveled from Washington to attend Tuesdays event. Once No 1 on Beijings most-wanted student leaders list, Wang said that, if he had to do it again, he would not turn back. Human life is limited, and I would not give up the opportunity to join my life experience to the future of my country ... even if only temporarily, he told the audience before reading his poem Belief. That is why I have absolutely no regrets for the price I have paid, he said. That price was more than six years in prison following the crackdown and two decades in exile - as well as the probability that he will never be able to go back to China, where, he said in an interview before the event, he yearns to return every single day. Tuesdays commemoration brought together several student leaders like Wang and Zhou from across the US, which has taken in many of them as political refugees over the decades. Prominent exiled dissident writers Liao Yiwu and Ma Jian also flew in from Europe to show support. Liao performed his long poem Massacre - an outpouring of fury and despair in memory of those killed in the crackdown - along with its translator Michael Day. That poem landed Liao four years in jail in the early 1990s. In the duos haunting performance, Liao used a harmonica, a flute, an abacus and an alms bowl to accompany Days English reading, at times reciting verses in Chinese in piercing cries. The event also featured performances and speeches by poets, musicians and activists from America and beyond, to make the connection between the courageous students in China in 1989 and the movements for democracy, free expression and moral awakening in the United States today and around the world, said Sonia Guinansaca, a poet and activist from Ecuador who moderated the event. Susan Saxe, a 63-year-old New Yorker in the audience, said she knew about the crackdown when it happened, and later learned more from a friend who had emigrated from China. But the real reason for her to be at St Johns was her daughter, whom she adopted in China in 2000. Im interested in learning about Chinas development, and how I can reconcile the beautiful country that I have seen a number of times - most recently last summer - with the authoritarian regime, the government. How can they live together? she asked. Its heartbreaking for me to listen to this presentation, but also to know that it is the country that gave me my daughter, she added, her voice breaking on the last words. The audience on Tuesday night also included Chinese immigrants who did not know much about the pro-democracy movement or the crackdown before they left China, but were eager to find out more. Marco Sui, a 60-year-old from Gansu province in western China, came to the event with his wife in the hope of meeting people who have experienced the tragedy. We need to know the truth about the past, about history, said Sui, who moved to New York a decade ago. And the US is a place where we can finally learn about what truly happened 30 years ago. For Zhou, who founded Humanitarian China to help pro-democracy activists in China, people bearing witness to the crackdown and their willingness to learn more about it are both a solace and a reason to remain hopeful. In this moment of darkness, we must remember, history is on our side. The hope that galvanised China 30 years ago will one day transform China again, he said as he closed his speech. And tonight, together, we're keeping this hope alive. More from South China Morning Post: This article A taste of freedom in China: Tiananmen Square crackdown commemorated in New York first appeared on South China Morning Post For the latest news from the South China Morning Post download our mobile app. Copyright 2019. Your slap will be a blessing, NDTV, Purulia : Two days after Mamata Banerjee said she wanted to give him a "tight slap of democracy", Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered his response while campaigning in Bengal. At a rally in Purulia today, PM Modi said coming from "Didi", he would consider a slap a blessing. He also doubled down on his "tolabaazi" or extortion allegation that had provoked Mamata Banerjee's comments. "I am told Didi has said she wants to slap me. Didi, oh Didi. I call you Didi. I respect you. Your slap will be a blessing for me," said the Prime Minister. "I will accept it, but I will also say this - if you had the guts to slap your colleagues, who stole money from the poor via chit funds, you would not be so scared," he remarked, keeping up his relentless attack on the Trinamool chief on chit fund scandals and "tolabaazi" or extortionist tax. "If you had the guts to slap the tolabaaz, then the Triple T....TMC Tolabaazi Tax...you would not be ruined by them," PM Modi said. Responding to the Prime Minister, Ms Banerjee said. "I have never said I will slap the PM. I had said slap of democracy, try to understand the language." On Tuesday, Mamata Banerjee had demonstrated at a public rally how every time PM Modi referred to her Trinamool as a party of "tolabaazi" or extortionists, she felt like giving him a "tight slap of democracy". Mamata Banerjee at a rally demonstrated how she would give PM Modio a "slap of democracy". She said: "Money does not matter to me. That is why when Narendra Modi came to Bengal and accused my party of being tolabaaz, I wanted to give him a tight slap of democracy." This was after PM Modi's "Triple T"-Trinamool, Tolabaazi, Tax-attack on her. "Right from admission in schools and colleges, jobs in educational institutes and elsewhere one has to pay 'triple T' to get their work done. But this cannot continue always," the Prime Minister had said at a rally in Bengal on Saturday. Mamata Banerjee's Trinamool is facing an aggressive campaign by the BJP to make inroads into a state she has dominated since 2011, when she ended over three decades of Left rule. West Bengal is voting in all seven phases of the marathon national election that ends on May 19.The results will be declared on May 23. US President Donald Trump said that "nobody's happy" after North Korea raised the pressure over the future of their deadlocked nuclear negotiations by launching two short-range missiles. Trump's second summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un in Hanoi in February broke up without an agreement or even a joint statement as the two failed to reach a deal on what Pyongyang would be willing to give up in exchange for relief from sanctions imposed over its banned nuclear weapons and ballistic missile programmes. Since then Kim has accused Washington of acting in "bad faith" and given it until the end of the year to change its approach. In what South Korea President Moon Jae-in termed an "element of protest", the North "fired what appeared to be two short-range missiles" on Thursday, Seoul's Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) said in a statement. They were launched from Kusong in North Pyongan province, it said, and flew eastwards for 270 and 420 kilometres (170 and 260 miles) across the North. It was Pyongyang's second such move in less than a week, after having not launched a missile since November 2017, shortly before a rapid diplomatic thaw eased high tensions on the peninsula and paved the way for the historic first Kim-Trump summit in Singapore last June. At a White House event, Trump said US authorities were looking "very seriously" at the launch of the "short-range missiles". "Nobody's happy about it," he told reporters. "We'll see what happens," he added. "I know they want to negotiate, they're talking about negotiating. But I don't think they are ready to negotiate." Thursday's launches came hours after the US Special Representative on North Korea, Stephen Biegun, arrived in Seoul for talks with South Korean officials, in his first visit since the Hanoi summit. - 'Peace and security' - North Korea's Rodong Sinmun newspaper, the mouthpiece of the ruling party, devoted its entire front page and half of page two to the launch on Friday, with 16 pictures, the main one of Kim watching the launch from a camouflaged shelter. It was a "long-range strike" drill, the official Korean Central News Agency said, without specifying what kind of weapon was fired and avoiding the words missile, rocket or projectile. Thursday's missile firing came after North Korea carried out a military drill and fired multiple projectiles on Saturday, with at least one believed to be a short-range missile. And in a potential indication of more launches to come, KCNA said that Kim "set forth important tasks for further increasing the strike ability of the defence units". "The genuine peace and security of the country are guaranteed only by the strong physical force capable of defending its sovereignty," it cited him as saying. The pictures of the two launches released by the North appeared similar, and experts said at least one short-range ballistic missile was involved on Saturday. A report on the respected 38 North website said debris left by the launch suggested it was a "direct import" of a Russian-produced Iskander -- a single-stage, solid-fuel missile. If North Korea had imported Iskanders from Russia, the report added, "it has an existing capacity to deliver warheads to targets in South Korea with great precision". Pyongyang, Seoul and Washington had all refrained from explicitly calling Saturday's launch a missile -- the South used the term "projectile" -- which could jeopardise the ongoing diplomacy if it violated UN Security Council bans on ballistic technology as well as Kim's announcement of an end to long-range missile tests. But Japanese defence minister Takeshi Iwaya said Friday that Tokyo had "reached the conclusion" the latest launches were short-range ballistic missiles. "Launching of ballistic missiles is a clear violation of relevant UN Security Council resolutions," he told reporters. - 'Highly displeased' - Pyongyang's latest move "is a pressuring action to steer the nuclear talks in a direction it desires", South Korea's President Moon said in an interview marking his first two years in office. "It appears the North is highly displeased that the Hanoi summit ended without agreement," he added, but warned that the launch "could make negotiations more difficult". A summit between Moon and Kim a year ago was instrumental in lowering the temperature, but since the Hanoi summit, the North has blamed Seoul for siding with Washington, leaving inter-Korean relations in limbo. In New York, federal authorities said the US had taken possession of a North Korean freighter seized a year ago by Indonesia on grounds of violating UN sanctions. The officials said Wise Honest -- an 18,000-ton, single hull bulk carrier -- had exported high-grade coal and brought back machinery to the impoverished and reclusive country. burs-slb/qan Photo credit: Brynn Anderson/AP/REX/Shutterstock From Esquire (Permanent Musical Accompaniment To This Post) Being our semi-regular weekly survey of what's goin' down in the several states where, as we know, the real work of governmentin' gets done and where-look out!-the saints are coming through. Not to put too fine a point on it, but our state legislatures have gone completely crackers, especially the ones run by, well, crackers. I was going to lead with the insanity raging in Tennessee, but then, at the very last minute, Alabama came roaring in with a late entry as their lege came dangerously close to degenerating into a Russian parliamentary election. The redoubtable crew at AL.com has the blow-by-blow. The Senate abruptly removed a rape and incest exception from the bill without allowing a roll call vote on that decision. The move shocked Senate Minority Leader Bobby Singleton, D-Greensboro, who had just said at the Senate mic that he wanted a roll call vote on every question concerning the abortion bill. Singleton and other Democratic senators strongly objected to Lt. Gov. Will Ainsworth for his quick gavel on tabling the rape and incest amendment on a voice vote, meaning there is no recorded vote. Ainsworth said he followed Senate rules. As that disagreement simmered, Senate President Pro Tem Del Marsh, R-Anniston, moved to delay a vote on the abortion bill until next week. Marsh supports the rape and incest amendment and said he expects a vote on it next week when the Senate reconsiders the bill. The bill, which passed the House last week, is intended to trigger a challenge to the Roe v. Wade decision. Doctors would be charged with a felony for performing or attempting to perform an abortion. The woman would not be liable. The bill would allow abortions to protect the woman from serious health risks. The bill passed the House of Representatives by a 74-3 vote last week, with the Republican majority supporting it. Democrats opposed the bill and offered amendments but most did not participate in the final vote. Story continues Can't fully appreciate it without the video, however. Here's a nifty little profile of Will Ainsworth, the Alabama lieutenant governor who tried to pull this trick off. He sounds like a very serious fella. The fetus obsessives and Bible-bashers are playing for keeps this time around, as we saw on Wednesday in Georgia. Here, they tried a sneak-thief approach to removing even the traditional rape-and-incest exception when nobody was looking. It's even weirder in Ohio, where they are considering a bill that will mandate something that nobody can do. From the Statehouse News Bureau: The bill would ban nontherapeutic abortions that include "drugs or devices used to prevent the implantation of a fertilized ovum. And Becker says the bill also speaks to coverage of ectopic or tubal pregnancies where the fertilized egg attaches outside of the womb. Part of that treatment would be removing that embryo from the fallopian tube and reinserting it in the uterus so that is defined as not an abortion under this bill," Becker explains. That doesnt exist in the realm of treatment for ectopic pregnancy. You cant just re-implant. Its not a medical thing," says Jaime Miracle, deputy director of NARAL Pro-Choice Ohio. In the middle of a genuine crisis in maternal mortality, the jamokes in the Ohio legislature are preparing to mandate some Jules Verne nonsense they thought up while waiting for the 5:15 showing of Unplanned, despite the fact that their fantasmic feature might kill the human beings they apparently believe exist only as vessels. It's all about repealing Roe, of course, and these laws are so completely nuts that they bespeak nothing more than the fact that their authors believe the moment has come around at last in the Supreme Court. Thank god Real Progressives didn't fall for the "blackmail" about the courts that supervillain Hillary Rodham Clinton was pitching in 2016. Photo credit: Mark Humphrey - AP OK, so now up to Tennessee, where all of the action orbits a guy named Cade Cothren who, until Wednesday, was the chief of staff to the speaker of the Tennessee House of Representatives, Glen Casada. (Carl Hiassen apparently is now the casting director for the Tennessee legislature.) Cothren allegedly had a bit of a #MeToo problem much in the same way as the Everglades have a bit of a #BigSnakes problem. From USA Today: Cothrens explicit text messages include: soliciting oral sex and naked photos from an intern; suggesting he would make sexual advances toward another intern; seeking sex with a lobbyist; referring to another woman as a cunt; and calling Metro police officers who gave him parking tickets rent a cop cocksuckers. The text messages range from early 2014 to fall 2016 when Cothren served as House Republicans press secretary. In an interview Monday, Cothren admitted that he had sent derogatory texts to women in the past, but declined to elaborate on those messages or his behavior toward women. Cothren in January became Casadas chief of staff, earning $199,800. Im just not the same guy that I was several years back, Cothren said. I was young and dumb and immature. Theres no excuse for it at all, and Im not trying to make excuses, but I can tell you that I have changed since then. Translation From the Original Weaselspeak: Goddamn Internet never forgets. The other problem is that Casada himself somehow got caught up in this, too. Casada summarized his involvement in some of the sexually charged text messages - a conversation not involving the interns - as a comment on a relationship between two consenting adults. Then, there's the other other problem. Revelations about Cothrens inappropriate sexual advances and text messages come after Casadas chief of staff admitted to using cocaine in the legislatures office building. Cothren is also facing scrutiny over racist text messages. News of Cothren and Casadas sexually explicit remarks comes at a time of renewed scrutiny of the legislatures sexual harassment policy. In recent days, Casada repeatedly has vouched for Cothren, including Monday. "While Im not proud of who I was in the past, I am proud that, with Gods grace and a strong support system, Ive been able to achieve so much in the years since," Cothren said. Casada said, "Who am I to hold that against someone when they've turned their life around? ... It's a very simple story of a young man going off and making some bad life decisions, but recognizing those bad life decisions." Translation From the Original Weaselspeak: I'm caught up in this, too, and I have plans for the future and, wait, I thought I erased that... In August 2016, Cothren texted Casada about a sexual encounter he had with a woman. Just so yall know, I did f-k (woman) in the bathroom at party fowl, he said, referring to the Party Fowl restaurant. Will send pictures later. Casada responded: Only gone for 60 seconds, adding, R u a minute man???;) Cothren said, Yes, I take after you. Like father like son. Casada replied, Lolol! If Im happy, then all is good!!!!! Ahem. Moving on... Photo credit: Sean Rayford - Getty Images Last week, it was announced that we were losing the New Orleans Times-Picayune, which had been covering the city since 1837. However, there's still really good journalism being done at NOLA.com. This week, they ran with a careful study of how education "reform" once again turned into a license to loot the public treasury. The story brings back to the spotlight former Governor Bobby Jindal, who was presidential timber once, until he warped, badly, under pressure. In the 2017-18 year, every one of McMillians 156 students used state vouchers to pay tuition, according to records from the state Department of Education. That means nearly $1.3 million in public money flowed to the school that year as a result of the school choice program expanded in 2012 by then-Gov. Bobby Jindal, allowing lower-income families to opt out of struggling public schools in pursuit of a better education. McMillians shows how some low-performing schools exist solely because of the programs public subsidies, with little accountability and state oversight, according to an examination by NOLA.com | The Times-Picayune, WVUE Fox 8 News, WWNO and Reveal from The Center for Investigative Reporting. The McMillian family used to run a preschool out of its South Claiborne Avenue building in New Orleans. But the year after Jindal expanded the voucher program, McMillians First Steps Child Care Center became McMillians First Steps Academy, an elementary school for kindergarten through 5th grades. It added additional grades later. As a reconfigured school in the 2013-14 school year, McMillian started with all voucher students 29 students who delivered more than $195,000 in state dollars. Since then, as more tax dollars flowed to the school, Executive Director Linda McMillians pay has grown significantly. A review of the school tax records shows McMillian earned $204,328 in 2017, a 35 percent increase over her 2016 salary. Thats more than double the pay of similar jobs in the public school system...As a private school, McMillians has no public oversight over pay and can set policies and salaries as it sees fit. You mean if you introduce a profit motive to something, you might get profiteers? Get right out of town. Elsewhere around the nation, an interesting new phenomenon is cropping up. It used to be that the anti-vaxxer crowd contained so many crunchy-granola moms and dads that it was the one thing conservatives could shoot back with when people talked about how conservatives had abandoned science. Sometime recently, however, the anti-vaxxer position has become part of the religio-antebellum-states-rights-I-Got-Mine catechism with predictably goofy results. For example, as the measles epidemic rages on, the Republican Party of Oregon has become a clearinghouse of anti-vaxxer propaganda. From The Hill: Oregon Democrats were just joking about my body, my choice while rammimg forced injections down every Oregon parent's throat, the state GOP tweeted Monday after the legislation passed the state House 35-25, referencing a slogan frequently invoked in defense of abortion rights. And then there's this guy in Texas, and I will not attempt to explain what's going on here. From USA Today: [Jonathan] Stickland a state representative who describes himself as a "Christian Conservative" and a "Liberty Loving Republican" in his Twitter bio made the comment as part of an extended critique of vaccines and the scientific community. The exchange started with a tweet by pediatrician Peter Hotez lamenting the upward trend of Texas children exempted from vaccines. Hotez a vaccine expert and founder of the National School of Tropical Medicine at Baylor College of Medicine said the "children of #Texas have been placed in harm's way for the financial gain of special & outside interest groups." "Mind your own business," Stickland replied in part to Hotez, alleging that his vaccine advocacy was "self enriching 'science.'" Hotez said he does not take money from the vaccine industry. His role as a Texas pediatrician and scientist makes the issue of rising vaccine exemptions a part of his business, he said. "Make the case for your sorcery to consumers on your own dime. Like every other business," Stickland tweeted. "Quit using the heavy hand of government to make your business profitable through mandates and immunity. Its disgusting." As it turns out, Sorcery Guy has cut quite a swath through Texas politics, as the Texas Tribune chronicled. Photo credit: Jay Janner - AP And we conclude, as is our custom, in the Great State of Oklahoma, where Blog Official Berserker, Friedman of the Plains, checking in from Reykjavik this week, brings us the latest in meaty political issues from back home. From the Associated Press: Gov. Kevin Stitt on Thursday signed into law a bill making the ribeye the official steak of Oklahoma. The measure takes effect Nov. 1. Rancher and state Sen. Casey Murdock of Felt, who sponsored the bill, says the cattle industry is a huge part of Oklahomas identity. Murdock says Oklahoma has more than 5 million cattle. Census figures estimate the 2018 population of Oklahoma was about 3.9 million. Murdock says designating the ribeye, which is known for its flavor, as the official steak of Oklahoma is good for tourism and restaurants. Call me when Oklahoma makes something its official seafood. That'd be a story. This is your democracy, America. Cherish it. Respond to this post on the Esquire Politics Facebook page here. ('You Might Also Like',) In October 2018, the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) announced its plan to overhaul its currency to introduce new, more colorful notes. At the time, the reserve noted that the bills would come with new security measures and be made from durable material to last longer in the market. What they didnt mention was the fact that the bills would also come with a spelling mistake. This week, a few eagle-eyed Australians found a teeny, tiny spelling error on the $50 note. Oh, and the error was printed more than 46 million times. Related: 16 World Currencies So Beautiful You Wont Want to Spend Them On Australias new yellow $50 note, people can find the word responsibility spelled wrong. This photo illustration shows the detail in Australia's state-of-the-art new 50 dollar banknote in Sydney on May 9, 2019, with a spelling mistake in the microprint of a speech by Australia's first woman parliamentarian Edith Cowan. - The yellow and green note came into circulation last October, but it took seven months for the public to notice It is a great responsibilty [sic] to be the only woman here, and I want to [emphasize] the necessity which exists for other women being here, the bill reads. The quote, Business Insider explained, is an extract of a speech given by Australia's first female member of parliament as she entered office. According to the RBA, they are aware of the issue, though there is nothing they can do about it. The $50 note, RBA confirmed, is the most widely circulated banknote in Australia. Beyond the mistake, the new currency is still rather impressive. According to The Guardian, the currency is made with polymer, which increases both its durability and security. It also makes it easier to include brail and other features to help the vision-impaired, The Guardian reported. For example, the $50 note features four raised bumps to help people identify it. As RBA added, it will be updating the text in the next print run of the $50 note. So, those that have their hands on one may want to hold onto it as it could become a collectors item one day. Or, just go spend it and have a good laugh at the mistake. (PHOTO: In Good Company) SINGAPORE Homegrown brand In Good Company has come a long way - seven years and seven regional outposts - to launch their third standalone store in Singapore. Their first and second stores are located at ION Orchard and The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands. READ MORE: Off-White beat Gucci to the top spot of Lyst 2019 Nike opens duplex unit at Jewel Changi Airport The best boutique hotels in Porto, including a converted stationary shop and riverside guesthouses (PHOTO: In Good Company) In Good Company enlisted design studio PRODUCE to design the store layout, with references to artist Richard Serra, where voluminous structures and surfaces within the store are given monolithic colour and subtle texture. A walk around the store reveals a towering curved wall, while other parts reflect curved and textured surfaces. (PHOTO: In Good Company) The third store stocks full collections from womenswear, menswear, kids, accessories and a selection of objects curated from both local and international brands such as chocolates and magazines. Birds of Paradise. (PHOTO: In Good Company) As for fans with a sweet tooth, In Good Company has partnered with local gelato makers Birds of Paradise to house their second gelato boutique. Their minimalistic space was designed by design agency HJGHER, and it follows the sculptural curved walls of the In Good Company store. Birds of Paradise. (PHOTO: In Good Company) Visitors can also look forward to a new flavour at Birds of Paradise Jewel Changi Airport: Pandan Gula Jawa, an all-natural pandan flavour made from pure pandan leaves, unspoiled by artificial flavouring and colouring. Prices are S$5.70 for a single cone; S$7.70 for a double cup; S$8.70 for a double cone; while a take-home pint goes for S$16. In Good Company is located at #01-214/215/216, Jewel Changi Airport. An exhibit on East Berlin at the new International Spy Museum A lipstick pistol, a button-hole camera, a lethal umbrella and an authentic waterboarding table: the espionage world's heroic, ingenious and sordid sides are all on show in Washington's all-new, much-expanded International Spy Museum. The hugely popular showplace that once conjured James Bond and Austin Powers as much as it did actual life-and-death Cold War intrigue has grown and, in the tailwind of 9/11 and the War on Terror, grown up. Relocated in a gleaming new steel and glass building double the size of its former premises, the Spy Museum still amazes and charms with the tales and gadgets of the undercover world going back centuries. But now it also depicts the complex and often unsettling challenges of the world of shadows, with visitors asked in clever interactive games and simulated situation rooms to decide: could I be an intelligence agent? - Disguises, microdots, suicide needles - The Spy Museum has been one of the US capital's most popular private destinations since it opened in 2002. The new premises open officially on Sunday, just ahead of the summer tourist season. On show, as before, is the iconic Aston Martin DB5 from 1964's James Bond thriller "Goldfinger." But now there is also room for an equally sleek 1980s Amber surveillance drone, the precursor of the Predator. There is a British World War II one-man submarine, and an actual section of the CIA/MI6 tunnel that penetrated East Berlin in the 1950s to tap Soviet communications. And there are gadgets galore: a pregnant woman disguise from the CIA and a suicide needle hidden in a silver dollar coin, for use by Francis Gary Powers, the U2 spy plane pilot shot down by the Soviet Union in 1960. There are historical encryption machines, including Germany's Enigma, and a display on the microdot technology central to spying for decades last century. Among all manner of odd items throughout the museum are a saboteur's exploding lump of coal, pills that CIA operatives entering Cuba could use to sedate barking dogs and the sketchbook of a KGB agent operating undercover in New York in the 1950s. Story continues "The objectives of spies have not changed over the centuries," said Keith Melton, whose massive collection of espionage gear is the core of the museum. "The only thing that has changed is the technology, and how they accomplish the objectives." - Could you be an agent? - The museum's coverage is global, and mostly without judgement. China's theft of US secrets and technology is on display; so is the theft, centuries ago, of China's silkworm and tea cultivation know-how by Westerners. Woven in between are engaging, well-designed interactive exhibits and challenges that press the question: what would the visitor do? One tests a person's lock-picking ability, while another takes visitors through a series of tests of memory, judgment and observation in a simulated spy operation. In yet another, visitors take the role of CIA analysts in the 2011 situation room where, holding deeply imperfect intelligence, they must decide whether to advise President Barack Obama to approve a raid on the Abbottabad, Pakistan compound possibly housing Osama Bin Laden. Complex issues are engaged and not whitewashed. The museum puts on show the spying world's failures, including a display of the actual intelligence that, if it had drawn more attention, might have helped prevent Al-Qaeda's September 11, 2001 attack. And, with a waterboard on display and a video discussion of actual participants, there is a disquieting debate on the CIA's use of torture after 9/11. - 'The essence of espionage' - The museum has its roots in the 7,000-piece collection of Melton, a navy veteran and engineer who, beginning in the 1960s traveled the world to amass. He advertised that he was a buyer of any spy technology, and he sought out and befriended agents and officials from all sides of the Cold War game. "As the wall fell in Berlin, I was there," he said, and the collection's extensive spyware from East Germany's Stasi service is the result. Weeks after the Soviet Union crumbled in December 1991, he traveled to Moscow. "I went and knocked on the door of KGB headquarters and said I'm here to buy spy equipment," Melton said. While he raised some suspicions, many realized he was a genuine collector who didn't talk about politics. "I like gadgets, they like gadgets," he said. "Cameras, microdots, coding machines, short range transmitters: that's the essence of espionage." The pride of his collection is gruesome, but he spent four decades seeking it: the ice axe that Joseph Stalin's assassins used to murder Leon Trotsky in Mexico in 1940, in the climax of an intense three-year intelligence operation. Melton is hugely proud of the new museum, but somewhat wistful about the new digital age, in which computer technology has replaced many espionage tools. "I think we are past the golden era of spy devices. This is now the most powerful spy device in the world," he said, pointing to his smartphone. Photo credit: Getty Images From Esquire Not to alarm you too much, but a tomato war has been declared between the United States and Mexico. From New Food Economy: The U.S. Department of Commerce on Tuesday is expected to pull out of the Tomato Suspension Agreement (TSA), a treaty with Mexican tomato growers thats governed imported tomatoes since 1996. Because more than 70 percent of the fresh tomatoes found in grocery stores across the U.S. come from Mexico, prep yourself for sticker shock. Originally enacted because the Commerce Department suspected Mexican growers of dumping undervalued tomatoes into the U.S. market, the agreement placed a floor price on Mexican tomatoes and, in return, suspended the dumping investigation undertaken by Commerce. The TSA has been reviewed, updated, and renewed every five years since its inception. But since last year, the Florida Tomato Exchange, a trade organization for Florida tomato growers, has lobbied to terminate the agreement, rather than renew it. A brief look at the casus beefsteak: The organization purports that Mexican growers, by virtue of Mexican government subsidies and the low cost of Mexican labor, are able to sell tomatoes for a reduced cost over their U.S. counterparts, and that some growers are still skirting the agreement and taking advantage of loopholes to dump cheap tomatoes into the U.S. market. We can study the actual issues another time. Instead, I'd like to check on the status of long-standing United States treaties because they've been having a rough couple of years. NAFTA? Gone, in name, anyway. TPP? Strangled in the crib. Paris Accord On Climate Change? Let it all burn. The Iran Deal? Negated by anger from Fox News Channel. The INF arms-control treaty? Bombs away. The U.N. Arms Trade Treaty? Sorry, we have an NRA. And just the other day, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo announced his intention to turn a Reagan-era agreement between the U.S. and Canada over sea rights in the Arctic into a dead letter. Story continues I awake every morning terrified that the president* has sold Alaska back to the Russians, or that I may now need a passport to visit Nebraska in the newly reacquired French territory of Louisiana. Respond to this post on the Esquire Politics Facebook page here. ('You Might Also Like',) Smiling makes people happier Using a statistical technique called meta-analysis, researchers combined data from 138 studies testing more than 11,000 participants from all around the world. According to the results published in the journal Psychological Bulletin, facial expressions have a small impact on feelings Weekend Plus Desk : miling really can make people feel happier, according to researchers who looked at nearly 50 years of data testing whether facial expressions can lead people to feel the related emotions. Conventional wisdom tells us that we can feel a little happier if we simply smile. Or that we can get ourselves in a more serious mood if we scowl, said Nicholas Coles, PhD student at University of Tennessee in the US. But psychologists have actually disagreed about this idea for over 100 years, Coles said in a statement. These disagreements became more pronounced in 2016, when 17 teams of researchers failed to replicate a well-known experiment demonstrating that the physical act of smiling can make people feel happier. Some studies have not found evidence that facial expressions can influence emotional feelings, Coles said. But we cant focus on the results of any one study. Psychologists have been testing this idea since the early 1970s, so we wanted to look at all the evidence, he said. Using a statistical technique called meta-analysis; researchers combined data from 138 studies testing more than 11,000 participants from all around the world. According to the results published in the journal Psychological Bulletin, facial expressions have a small impact on feelings. For example, smiling makes people feel happier, scowling makes them feel angrier, and frowning makes them feel sadder. We dont think that people can smile their way to happiness, Coles said. But these findings are exciting because they provide a clue about how the mind and the body interact to shape our conscious experience of emotion. We still have a lot to learn about these facial feedback effects, but this meta-analysis put us a little closer to understanding how emotions work, he added. SOUTH SIOUX CITY -- Big Ox Energy officials have reached an agreement that delays the company's hearing before state regulators who are considering whether to revoke its storm water and air quality permits. Representatives of the idled biofuels plant in South Sioux City are now scheduled to appear before the Nebraska Department of Environmental Quality for a three-day hearing beginning July 8 in Lincoln. The hearing had been scheduled to begin Wednesday. The Wisconsin-based company announced on April 19 that it was temporarily suspending its biogas production operations. On April 30, the plant's wastewater treatment operations were shut down after its wastewater discharge permit was not renewed by the city of Sioux City, bringing operations at the plant to a halt. The temporary shutdown was one of four stipulations Big Ox agreed to in order to continue the NDEQ hearing. The other stipulations: -- Big Ox must complete cleanup of digester solids currently stockpiled at the plant by July 1. -- Big Ox will cease acceptance of truckloads of biological materials for its anaerobic disgesters until the case is resolved. -- Big Ox will not resume operations until all equipment and building repairs have been completed and approved by the NDEQ. The NDEQ will permit Big Ox limited use of its main biogas flare to burn off residual materials while cleaning out the digesters and shutting down. A Big Ox spokesman has said that cleanup of the solid waste stockpile is underway. When the company announced it was ceasing biogas production, Kevin Bradley, Big Ox director of business and economic, said the company would be emptying its digesters so they could be assessed and repaired. No materials would be accepted during that time, he said. Bradley said on May 1 that the digesters should be empty this month, and there was no estimate when the plant would again be operational. After a series of citations from state and federal regulators for environmental violations, the NDEQ in March ordered Big Ox to appear for a show cause hearing to justify why it should be allowed to keep its permits. The plant has had problems with repeated venting of hydrogen sulfide gas into the atmosphere and solid waste spills. Shortly after Big Ox began operations in September 2016, a neighborhood near the plant experienced sewer backups, and residents complained of noxious fumes being emitted from the plant. Those emissions and odor issues have led to more than a dozen lawsuits filed against Big Ox and the city by homeowners in the plant's vicinity who claim its odors are a nuisance and, in some cases, have caused health issues and made their homes uninhabitable. Prior to shutdown, the plant accepted organic waste from local food and beverage manufacturers and converted it to methane. Big Ox also received wastewater from other South Sioux City industries, pretreated it and discharged it to Sioux City's regional wastewater treatment plant. Big Ox's discharge permit expired April 30. South Sioux City is now routing wastewater past the plant to Sioux City, and wastewater will not flow through Big Ox until a new permit is issued. Sioux City officials said Big Ox must meet several conditions before the permit will be renewed. Big Ox owes the city more than $3 million in wastewater treatment fees, late charges and fines, a total the company is disputing. Copyright 2019 The Sioux City Journal. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 1 Angry 0 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. DAKOTA CITY -- Even after Andres Surber identified himself as Lucifer and about a dozen other names in court Thursday, prosecutors were adamant that he's mentally competent to stand trial for the death and dismemberment of Kraig Kubik. A state psychiatrist's report said that Surber is mentally incompetent, and Assistant Nebraska Attorney General Corey O'Brien said he'd be derelict in his duty to insist the case go to trial. Any guilty verdict, he said, would almost certainly be overturned on appeal, even though O'Brien said he believes Surber's outbursts of profanity and nonsensical comments are just for show. "He is doing nothing but putting on an act," O'Brien said. "If his competency is restored in two days, two weeks, two months, two years or 22 years, the state is going to be there to prosecute him for the death of Mr. Kubik." Following the finding of Dr. Klaus Hartmann, District Judge Paul Vaughan declared Surber incompetent to stand trial and ordered him to be taken to the Lincoln Regional Center for treatment. According to Vaughan, Hartmann said in his report that he believed Surber's competency could be restored in a short period of time. The report was sealed immediately after it was filed in Dakota County District Court. Surber, 28, of Wakefield, Nebraska, has pleaded not guilty to first-degree murder, use of a firearm to commit a felony and possession of a firearm by a prohibited person. He is accused of shooting Kraig Kubik with a 9mm firearm on Nov. 1, 2016, and dismembering the body. Vaughan last month granted a defense request to have Surber evaluated to determine whether he understands the charges against him and whether he can assist in his defense. On Thursday, defense attorney Todd Lancaster, of the Nebraska Commission on Public Advocacy in Lincoln, argued only that Vaughan follow Hartmann's recommendation. Surber has been diagnosed with schizophrenic effectiveness disorder with bipolar symptoms and continually talks out loud to himself during court hearings, occasionally interrupting the proceedings. He disrupted Thursday's hearing immediately, challenging Vaughan and telling him he was paying his bond and leaving. "Open my cuffs and get me the f--- out of here," Surber said. Prior to ruling, Vaughan gave Surber one more chance to speak. "I'd say full competence because I am my own lawyer," Surber said. "I'm Lucifer, or you can call me Andres, but I go by that." After issuing his ruling, Vaughan said that if Surber refused to take his medications while at the Regional Center, the state can file a motion to have them administered against Surber's will. Vaughan previously ruled Surber incompetent to stand trial in April 2017. After months of treatment at the Regional Center, a psychiatrist found that Surber's competency had been restored, and Vaughan declared him competent to stand trial in October. Prosecutors believe Surber shot Kubik at Kubik's rural Emerson, Nebraska, home. Kubik's right arm and right leg were found inside the trunk of a car at an abandoned farm 24 miles away on Nov. 2, 2016. The rest of Kubik's remains were found three days later in a culvert near the farmhouse. Autopsy results showed that Kubik, 42, died of a single gunshot wound to the back of the head. Brayan Galvan-Hernandez, 21, of Wakefield, pleaded no contest to attempted second-degree murder and guilty to accessory to a felony in connection with Kubik's death and was sentenced in December 2017 to 50-60 years in prison. Surber's case is now on hold while he undergoes treatment, and no trial date is set. As he left the courtroom, Surber continued to speak out loud to himself. While sheriff's officers waited with him at the elevator to return him to jail, he howled like a dog. Copyright 2019 The Sioux City Journal. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 1 Sign up for our Crime & Courts newsletter Get the latest in local public safety news with this weekly email. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. SIOUX CITY -- May 25 will be a busy day at the downtown Tyson Events Center, as the graduation ceremonies for all three city public high schools will be held over several hours. A Sioux City School District release on Thursday said the graduations will be held over about an eight-hour period, when nearly 900 students will get diplomas. North High School will hold the first ceremony at 11 a.m., followed by West High School at 2:30 p.m., then East High School at 6 p.m. The doors open to the public one hour before each ceremony. It's the third straight year that graduations for the three public Sioux City high schools will take place the same day, after years of ceremonies on three different weekend nights. Due to recent security-related changes at the Tyson Events Center, all patrons of the graduation ceremonies will be required to pass through metal detectors upon entry into the event. District spokeswoman Mandie Mayo reminded attendees of Tyson guidelines to keep a respectful atmosphere, which includes a prohibition on such items as cow bells, air horns, silly string, posters and laser devices. Mayo said a recessional will be held after each ceremony to guide people to a specified location to gather for photos. Copyright 2019 The Sioux City Journal. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Love 1 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 1 SPENCER, Iowa -- Born in The Netherlands, John Conyn spent most of his formative years in Chicago, where his father sold tulip bulbs to greenhouses in the region. Conyn said he has learned there's little difference growing up in a big city or a small town like Spencer, Iowa, where he today serves as fire chief. "Opportunity is what you make for yourself. Whether youre in a group of one, 100, or 1,000, its what are you going to do to get better. So bloom where youre planted," Conyn said. Opportunity is what brought my family to the United States. While my father sold tulip bulbs, my mother was a maid for the Florsheim Shoe Company. Coming to America was an opportunity that required my dad to learn a little English so he could speak with wholesale florists to sell those dozens of different bulbs." FIREFIGHTING CAREER A Boy Scout for many years, Conyn was first introduced to his future profession through the youth leadership program. Bar none, it has given me the greatest gift of confidence and the ability to pay everything forward. My whole career has been based on a series of handshakes. I went into my first Chicago firehouse when I was 8 years old, and a firefighter by the name of Bob Brown, who stood 6 foot-plus -- like a giant -- shook my hand, introduced himself, and invited me in for a tour. All Im doing now is paying that handshake forward. Almost a decade later, Conyn started working in a fire station while in high school. That came when he was asked to fix a flat tire for a Chicago fire battalion chief, who introduced him into a ride-along program. Then he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force as a firefighter in 1975. Conyn accepted the position of fire chief in Spencer in July 2016, after serving in a similar capacity in Webster City, Iowa. He now uses a high school fire cadet program for both recruitment and training, opening the opportunity for students of high school age to be introduced into the fire fraternity, and learn what its all about -- the same way he came up through the ranks. We are fortunate to live in an area that is very neighbor rich and community oriented. Firefighters cant do this alone. We rely on each other. Your neighbor could be a firefighter or a police officer. Your neighbor could be that person who shovels the snow away from that fire hydrant." REGIONAL TRAINING CENTER Under Conyn's leadership, the Clay County community is moving forward with the Northwest Iowa Public Safety Training Center, proposed for a site, the Green Industrial Center, on the east side of the Spencer. Clay Countys Firefighter Appreciation Day on March 10 raised approximately $25,000 to purchase drill props and supplies. The donations resulted not only from free will donations for burgers and a carnival-like atmosphere more than 400 area residents enjoyed, but also from cash and in-kind contributions. All the food was provided at no cost by the Clay County Cattlemen and Pork Producers (who also grilled the burgers), along with Fareway and Hy-Vee. The effort was coordinated by the all the service clubs in the county, led by retired businessman Paul Brenner. A like event two years ago benefited law enforcement personnel. Conyn said that while he can anticipate the training facility opening yesterday, he can realistically see quite a bit of progress in 2019. Id like to say well be practicing in the new facility before the year has ended. Thats a strong goal," he said. "The biggest thing is to get out there dragging hoses and squirting water. Thats the No. 1 thing. Then, as time and monies permit, we can build on that ground to enhance education and training even more. In addition to Spencer, Dickens, Everly, Fostoria, Royal, and Webb fire departments, Conyn envisions the training center benefiting departments in the eight adjoining counties, as well as area law enforcement agencies. He noted that while it is not practical to train an entire department many miles from home at one time, smaller groups can travel to a one- or two-day event nearby. It is only through proper training that we can best help people like firefighters and law enforcement officers who help others," he said. "This new facility will help hone their skills. You cant take the entire department out of the community for training. But what you can do is train a few of them, then, in the following week or month, train the next group. And keep on training. Thats the key." A lifelong Cubs fan, Conyn and his family lived on Chicago's north side, in what he called a taxpayer, an apartment above a grocery store and butcher shop, that helped pay the owners taxes. Living in that taxpayer, he said, made him appreciate the history of Spencers downtown. After a devastating fire in 1931, the community worked together to rebound and get back to business in a very short time. After the Spencer City Council recently enacted an ordinance allowing for murals on buildings in specific downtown locations, including the area where Spencers firehouse is located, Conyn said he has considered the potential for the fire department to use its wall for a mural. "If it could demonstrate spirit, brotherhood, and fraternity, because that is truly what you need in fire service, he said. To a suggestion that some strategically placed tulips might appear on the wall, Conyn paused only momentarily before coming back with a huge grin. Oh my gosh. That be great -- a fun pay it forward! One of the great things you see in Spencer is our Parks & Rec Department work that has flower baskets to welcome people passing through the community, and letting them know they are alive. Its one of the hallmarks that makes you recognize Spencer and sets it apart. Contact Russ Oechslin at: Russ-SCJ@Mindspring.Com Copyright 2019 The Sioux City Journal. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 CEDAR RAPIDS -- Sen. Chuck Grassley is applauding a requirement that pharmaceutical companies include prescription drug prices in their direct-to-consumer advertising, such as those seen on television. Grassley, chairman of the Senate Finance Committee, and Illinois Democratic Sen. Dick Durbin won Senate approval last year of mandatory price disclosure in direct-to-consumer ads as part of the Labor-Health and Human Services appropriations bill. However, it was not in the final legislation that went to the president. Now, the HHS Department has announced final regulations requiring price disclosure on direct-to-consumer ads. A typical consumer sees at least nine direct-to-consumer prescription drug ads every day, Grassley said Wednesday in a conference call with Iowa reporters. These ads tell you just about everything imaginable about the drug, other than how much it costs, he said. Studies show that patients are more likely to ask for specific brand name medications, and doctors are more likely to prescribe them if they have been marketed through television ads. The pharmaceutical industry spends more than $6 billion a year on direct-to-consumer advertising, Grassley said, adding that drives up health care cost by steering patients toward more expensive, often unnecessary, medications. American patients deserve the transparency of the price besides all the other information like the good it can do for you and the dangers if you take that drug, he said. This is an important step to reduce the price of prescription drugs, and I applaud this move by HHS. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 CEDAR RAPIDS -- The White House has rejected House Democrats demand that President Donald Trump turn over his tax returns, but Sen. Joni Ernst, R-Iowa, said the president should release them. He should voluntarily release them. Yes, she said Wednesday during a conference call with Iowa reporters. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin this week told majority House Democrats that he would not furnish the presidents tax returns despite a 1924 law that seems to explicitly give Congress power to request those documents. After consulting with the Justice Department, Mnuchin said potential privacy violations justify the decision to shield Trumps returns from Congress. Pressed on why she thinks its important for Trump to make his returns public, Ernst said she doesnt know that it is important. But I think there are a lot of folks that have stated that they want to see them, Ernst said. But I dont know what bearing that has on whether hes qualified to be president or not. Her comments follow publication Wednesday by the New York Times of tax information it received from someone it described as having legal access to Trumps tax returns for the years 1985-94. That information showed he lost more than $1.17 billion in that time and avoided paying income tax in eight of those 10 years. Love 1 Funny 3 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 1 SIOUX CENTER, Iowa -- The Sioux Center Community School District moved a step closer to starting construction of a new high school Monday, when the Sioux Center City Council sold nearly 25 acres of land to the district for the planned school. The 24.85 acres sold to the school district are north of the Sioux County fairgrounds, and a portion of the land will be set aside for community multipurpose green space with parking lot access. "The city is excited to see the growth of our community in all aspects, which include our local schools. It is great that the city can be a partner in helping facilitate this growth through the sale of some land and shared use of multipurpose green space for the community," city manager Scott Wynja said in a news release from the city. Sioux Center voters in February approved a $24.9 million bond issue to finance the new high school. Superintendent Gary McEldowney on Monday thanked the city council for its action and said that earth work at the construction site should begin in June. The new high school is expected to open for the 2021-22 school year. Wynja said the school district and city are drafting an agreement to collaborate on maintenance of the parking lot and road near the green space and for care of the space, which will be serve as playing fields and activity space for youth and adult recreation programs. In the current school year, Sioux Center has 393 students in grades 9-12, 401 middle school students in grades 5-8 and 572 elementary students in transitional kindergarten through fourth grade. The district is growing by about 50 students annually. McEldowney told the Journal earlier this year that if growth continues at the current rate, Sioux Center's total enrollment will rise from 1,300 students to 1,800 students in 10 years. The total cost of the new high school is estimated at $39.6 million. The district will cover 37 percent or $14.7 million, with other revenues, with the bond proceeds picking up the other 63 percent. Copyright 2019 The Sioux City Journal. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Be the first to know Get local news delivered to your inbox! Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. VATICAN CITY Pope Francis issued a groundbreaking new church law Thursday requiring all Catholic priests and nuns around the world to report clergy sexual abuse and cover-up by their superiors to church authorities, in a new effort to hold the Catholic hierarchy accountable for failing to protect their flocks. Abuse victims and their advocates said it was a step forward, but not enough since it doesn't require the crimes to be reported to police and essentially tasks bishops discredited for mishandling abuse for decades with policing their own. The new law provides whistle-blower protections for anyone making a report and requires all dioceses around the world to have a system in place to receive the claims confidentially. And it outlines procedures for conducting preliminary investigations when the accused is a bishop, cardinal or religious superior. It's the latest effort by Francis to respond to the global eruption of the sex abuse and cover-up scandal that has devastated the credibility of the Catholic hierarchy and his own papacy. And it provides a new legal framework for U.S. bishops as they prepare to adopt accountability measures next month to respond to the scandal there. "People must know that bishops are at the service of the people," said Archbishop Charles Scicluna, the Vatican's longtime sex crimes prosecutor. "They are not above the law, and if they do wrong, they must be reported." The decree requires the world's 415,000 Catholic priests and 660,000 religious sisters to inform church authorities when they learn or have "well-founded motives to believe" that a cleric or sister has engaged in sexual abuse of a minor, sexual misconduct with an adult, possession of child pornography or that a superior has covered up any of those crimes. It doesn't require them to report to police, however. The Vatican has long argued that different legal systems in different countries make a universal reporting law impossible, and that imposing one could endanger the church in places where Catholics are a persecuted minority. But the procedures do for the first time put into universal church law that clergy must obey civil reporting requirements where they live, and that their obligation to report to the church in no way interferes with that. Abuse survivor David Clohessy dismissed the new set of procedures, saying they remain secretive and internal to the church. "Until heads roll, until bishops are fired plain and simple they'll continue to ignore and conceal clergy sex crimes," he said. If implemented fully, though, the Vatican could well see an avalanche of abuse and cover-up reports in the coming years. The decree can be applied retroactively, meaning priests and nuns are now required to report even old cases of sexual wrongdoing and cover-ups and enjoy whistleblower protections for doing so. Previously such reporting was left up to the conscience of individual priests and nuns. Anne Barrett Doyle of BishopAccountability praised some of the provisions, but said they weren't enough primarily because there were no provisions to sanction violations and kept the process entirely internal to the church. "Bishops watching bishops does not work," she said. While there are no punitive measures foreseen for noncompliance, bishops and religious superiors could be accused of cover-up or negligence if they fail to implement the provisions, or retaliate against priests and nuns who make reports against them. The law defines the crimes that must be reported as: performing sexual acts with a minor or vulnerable person; forcing an adult "by violence or threat or through abuse of authority, to perform or submit to sexual acts," and the production, possession or distribution of child pornography. Cover-up is defined as "actions or omissions intended to interfere with or avoid" civil or canonical investigations. Cardinal Marc Ouellet, head of the Vatican's bishops office, said the inclusion of sex crimes involving adults was a clear reference to cases of sexual abuse of nuns and seminarians by their superiors a scandal that has exploded in recent months following reports, including by The Associated Press and the Vatican's own women's magazine, of sisters being sexually assaulted by priests. But Scicluna said it obviously covered lay people as well. The pope mandated that victims reporting abuse must be welcomed, listened to and supported by the hierarchy, as well as offered spiritual, medical and psychological assistance. The law says victims can't be forced to keep quiet, even though the investigation itself is still conducted under pontifical secret. And in a novelty, the law requires that if victims request it, they must be informed of the outcome of the investigation again a response to longstanding complaints that victims are kept in the dark about how their claims were handled. Victims and their advocates have long complained that bishops and religious superiors have escaped justice for having engaged in sexual misconduct themselves, or failed to protect their flocks from predator priests. Bishops and religious superiors are accountable only to the pope, and only a handful have ever been sanctioned or removed for sex abuse or cover-up, and usually only after particularly egregious misbehavior became public. Last summer, the scandal over ex-Cardinal Theodore McCarrick epitomized the trend: McCarrick rose to the heights of the Catholic hierarchy even though he had credible allegations of sexual misconduct against him that the Vatican had received. Francis defrocked McCarrick earlier this year after a U.S. church investigation determined he sexually abused minors as well as adult seminarians. The new procedures call for any claim of sexual misconduct or cover-up against a bishop, religious superior or eastern rite patriarch to be reported to the Holy See and the metropolitan bishop, who is a regular diocesan bishop also responsible for a broader geographic area than his dioceses alone. Unless the metropolitan bishop finds the claim "manifestly unfounded," he must immediately ask permission from the Vatican to open a preliminary investigation and must hear back from Rome within 30 days a remarkably fast turnaround for the lethargic Holy See. The metropolitan bishop then has an initial 90 days to conduct the investigation, though extensions are possible. The law makes clear he can use lay experts to help, a key provision that is already used in many dioceses. And it recommends that a special fund be set up to pay for the investigations, particularly in poorer parts of the world. Once the investigation is completed, the metropolitan sends the results to the Vatican for a decision on how to proceed. The new law requires Vatican offices to share information throughout the process, since an untold number of cases have fallen through the cracks thanks to the silo-like nature of the Holy See bureaucracy. The procedures published Thursday are likely to form a key legal framework for U.S. bishops when they meet in Baltimore June 11-13 to adopt new accountability procedures. The U.S. hierarchy has been under immense public pressure to hold one another accountable for sexual misconduct and cover-up stemming from both the McCarrick scandal and the release of the Pennsylvania grand jury report. It was apparently an open secret that McCarrick slept with seminarians, and yet his brother bishops allowed him to become their spokesman when they first adopted measures to combat child sex abuse in 2002. The law goes into effect June 1 for an initial three years. Dioceses must establish the reporting system and confirm it is in place to the local Vatican embassy by June 1, 2020. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 I recently interviewed 1008 Key Club executive chef Clay Lillie for a story involving the 1008 Fourth St. eatery's new spring lunch menu. I'm been a longtime fan of Chef Clay's food since it often uses international ingredients. For instance, Lillie's just-introduced Bahn Mi Burger mimics the famous Vietnamese sandwich with a handful of Asian ingredients. Yet it get an extra punch of flavor from slivers of smoky, south-of-the-border carnitas that he uses to top his burger. In addition, the addition of a sesame kale slaw gives the Key Club's fish taco an unexpected pop. America is a melting pot country, Lillie likes to say, and Sioux City is a melting pot community. This melding of tastes will be found at Gyro Fest, which is taking place from noon to 6 p.m., Saturday, at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, 900 Sixth St. It is even more apparent at Sioux City's many Greek-owned restaurants. Whenever I'm in the mood for pastichio -- a Grecian variation on lasagna -- I know I'll be able to find it on the menu at Johnnie Mars (2401 East Fifth St.) Similarly, Diamond Thai Cuisine (515 West Seventh St.) is my go-to place for outstanding larb. What's larb, you ask? It is regarded as the "unofficial" national meal of Laos. Consisting of ground meat, veggies, chilis, limes and a dash or two of fish sauce, it is spicy, sour and, altogether, satisfying. Even more ferocious than Diamond Thai's larb is Shahi Palace's vindaloo. But if you ever order this ultra-spicy meat-and-potatoes-and-curry dish, expect to sweat ... a lot. The servers at the 3146 Singing Hills Blvd. restaurant always warn you that the vindaloo is, by far, their spiciest dish. They're right. However, if spice isn't your thing, check out California Pupusa (1500 Villa Ave.). Made with a thick cornmeal flatbread, pupusas come made with a meat, cheese and veggies of your choice. Even more exotic is the Ethiopian cuisine at Elilly Restaurant and Coffee House (1529 Pierce St.). At Elilly, we always get something called kitfo, which is beef served with flavorful chili peppers. However, don't expect the meal to come with any silverware. Instead, you scoop the food using a delicious flatbread called injera. It takes a a little practice, but this is quintessential African finger food. When people think of Midwestern cuisine, they think of bland, unimaginative fare. That's a bad misconception, especially if you live in Sioux City. America's strength comes from its people and the same holds true for Sioux City. We are a nation -- and a community -- built on immigrants. That taste is in our food and we look forwarded to exploring Sioux City one melting pot at a time. Copyright 2019 The Sioux City Journal. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Be the first to know Get local news delivered to your inbox! Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Dear Prudence, I make a good living and spend pretty frugally. I bought two homes by the time I was 30 (I rent one out) and drive the same car I had in college. Ive been very luckyand I havent dated since I was 19. I work like a dog. There are trade-offs. Four years ago, my stepfather had a heart attack while my stepsister was engaged. I paid for half of her wedding and her honeymoon (around $10,000). It was a gift, and I didnt want my parents stressing out over anything more than my stepfather getting better. I am also close to my stepsister. Advertisement My half-brother is much younger than me and getting married to a girl he knew from high school. I dont know either of them well. At a welcome brunch, his fiancee wanted to know how much I was going to give them for the wedding. My brother attempted to hush her, but this girl pushed on to tell the entire table I owed her a honeymoon and reception because I did the same for our sister. I was the rich sister, after all, and didnt have a family of my own. She shut up after her own mother told her to be quiet, but it was an uncomfortable brunch. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Both my brother and the mother of the bride have personally apologized to me. I would be willing to let this go, but both my brother and his bride-to-be have obliquely begged for money on social media and via email. We used to talk once or twice a year, but since that brunch he has called me 10 times wanting to catch up (really to complain about wedding costs). I am not sure what to do. They havent straight-out asked me yet, but I am not giving either of them a red cent after that brunch. I will buy something on the registry, but the sister of the groom has no obligation to pay for the wedding (the brides family does). I know that her parents cant afford this (my hometown is pretty poor), but I am never going to spend money on a spoiled brat who thinks I owe her a dream wedding. Should I play dumb? How should I proceed? Not a Fairy Godmother Advertisement Advertisement A quick point of clarification: The brides family doesnt have an obligation to pay for a wedding. The brides family customarily pays for the wedding, but this isnt the Spencer Tracy version of The Father of the Bride, and just as often they dont or cant. Even if you were one of the parents of the bride, it wouldnt be OK for someone to hound you for money like this. Youre generous to still plan to attend the wedding and pick up a gift, but if you ultimately decide its not worth the hassle, send your regrets and book yourself a spa day. And if youd like to play dumb, you certainly can. You havent misled anyone or raised expectations that youre obligated to squash. But I think youll feel less jumpy if youve set your brother straight: I just wanted to clarify after the brunch that I cannot contribute to your wedding funds, so you and your fiancee can factor that into your budget. No need to explain why or go into details about your finances. If hes rude enough to press the issue, tell him that its not up for discussion and end the conversation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It doesnt sound like his fiancee ever apologized to you, just that her mother and your brother apologized on her behalf. My guess is that itd be close to impossible to get an apology out of her, but I do think its a helpful indicator in terms of what you can expect from your relationship to them as a couple. I wouldnt worry too much about burning bridges, since it seems like their dynamic is a sort of good cop/bad cop attempt to gouge their relatives. She makes unreasonable public demands, he apologizes for her, and then he not-so-subtly reiterates those demands in a slightly politer tone. My vote is for you to take that spa day. Advertisement Advertisement Dear Prudence, For a friends birthday, I decided to paint a portrait of her, her late mother, and her adult children (two girls of her own and a stepdaughter). I contacted all three children back in January to please send me a picture so I could paint them. I contacted the stepdaughter (she lives out of state) several times. I even sent her a letter with a paid-for return envelope for the picture. She told me she would get around to it but never did. Advertisement Advertisement I finally gave up and did the portrait without her. I know that my friend had a difficult relationship with her stepdaughter growing up. I presented the painting to my friend at her birthday. She loved it so much that she cried. Later, her husband approached me. His daughter came down to visit, saw the portrait, and threw a fit. She screamed at her parents about how she obviously was not loved or wanted in the family. He wanted me to fix the portrait now to include this girl. I havent brought this up with my friend, but frankly I am insulted, and I think a good slap across the face might work wonders for this brat rather than indulging in this emotional manipulation. She did not want to be in the painting; she has no grounds to be upset now. It would require me to start over from scratch. How do I respond properly here? Pictures Not Perfect Advertisement Advertisement I dont doubt that your friends stepdaughter is difficult, and I agree that she was the main architect of her own misfortune by ignoring the deadline and the prestamped envelope you sent her. But I do think that choosing not to find a workaround (say, by asking one of the girls siblings to supply you with a photo of her, or working off an image from social media) and instead presenting your friend with a picture of all her children except the one shes had the hardest time connecting with put her in a slightly tricky position. I dont say that to discount the hard work you put into this or the generosity of the project as a whole. I just hope it helps you contextualize the girls response and to soothe that itchy slapping hand of yours. (Slaps very rarely work wonders. Usually they just hurt.) Advertisement Advertisement Given that this girl isnt part of your family, and you did work hard to include her in the first place, all you have to say to your friends husband is this: Im really sorry youve been having a tough time with [stepdaughter] over this. I contacted her a few times about participating and didnt hear back from her. Im afraid I dont have the time to start over such a big project, but I understand if you decide not to display the portrait in order to smooth things over. I hope you three are able to find a good way to talk this through. How to Get Advice From Prudie: Send questions for publication to prudence@slate.com. (Questions may be edited.) Advertisement Join the live chat every Monday at noon. Submit your questions and comments here before or during the live discussion. Advertisement Advertisement Call the voicemail of the Dear Prudence podcast at 401-371-DEAR (3327) to hear your question answered on a future episode of the show. Dear Prudence, My daughter is 11 and trans. I admit I am not entirely OK with this (it is scary, and I worry we arent doing everything right), but I try to keep that to myself. It seems to be right for her, and thats what is important. Our rule has been that she cant do anything irreversible until she is 18, which was the same for her older brother with tattoos, so she has accepted it with good grace for now. However, we did decide to do puberty blockers, since puberty isnt reversible either, and it would make transition easier for her later, if thats what she pursues. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, my sister-in-law is a doctor, and when she found out we were considering it, she listed off all these awful side effects and said that it was a terrible idea. She said if we went ahead, shed have to consider reporting us to child protective services. My daughter was devastated and scared, and so was I. My initial reaction was to deny the blockers, since plenty of people who are trans went through puberty, but I have thought about it, and all medication has potential side effects. I am on medication for my skin that lists death as a possible complication. I take that because the benefits outweigh the small risk. I think we should go ahead, but this little voice in my head keeps saying, She is a doctor. Am I making a mistake? Doctor or Doom-monger? Advertisement Your sister-in-law may be a doctor, but she is not your daughters doctor, and she is not speaking from a position of well-supported medical expertise when she says, If you consider delaying your daughters puberty, Ill call CPS. Talk to your daughters doctor about the side effects that most concern you. I dont know what your sister-in-law said or how accurate her information was, so ask your doctor to double-check whatever claims she made. Ask how common these effects are, how you can keep an eye out for early warning signs, what precautions you can take, what tests and screens you should schedule, and how you can be as well-informed as possible. Puberty blockers have been approved for medical use in the United States since 1985, so you can look at studies of non-trans children who took it to treat precocious puberty. Its also prescribed for endometriosis and prostate cancer. The American Academy of Pediatrics issued a statement in 2018 supporting the use of puberty blockers for trans and questioning youth. Its a thorough, comprehensive, reassuring document, and I recommend reading it all the way through. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Your sister-in-laws threat to call CPS is also ridiculous. Taking puberty blockers as prescribed by a doctor is not an actionable offense, so all shes going to do is waste a few minutes of an already overextended caseworkers time. The most important threat to your daughters health is from her transphobic aunt whos threatened to have her taken away from you. Please dont let this woman anywhere near your daughter, and document any interactions you have with her. All youre doing is delaying a decision you want your daughter to be able to make when shes a little older under medical supervision. Youre doing nothing permanent and nothing that cant later be changed. Your sister-in-law thinks thats grounds to try to separate you from your child. She is not acting with your childs best interests in mind. You are. Advertisement Get Prudie in Your Inbox Sign up for the Dear Prudence mailing list to receive notifications of new columns and chats We encountered an issue signing you up. Please try again. Please enable javascript to use form. Email address: Send me updates about Slate special offers. By signing up, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms Sign Up Thanks for signing up! You can manage your newsletter subscriptions at any time. Dear Prudence, For more than 10 years, I was best friends with an abusive, controlling man, Matt. In my early 20s, I moved to a new city to be closer to him and collaborate together. He put down my appearance and personality and denigrated any friendship I had that wasnt with him. He also dealt with extensive, episodic bouts of depression. About eight years ago, I started gradually cutting him out of my life, a sort of slow-motion ghosting. Six years ago, I moved to another city. He sought me out before I left and tried to get me to reminisce, but I said I just didnt feel that close to him anymore. Only after that did I really start to realize how much hed hurt me. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Two weeks ago he sent me a Facebook message, and I didnt respond. A week later, he sent a long, accusatory message about how Id wronged him, how Id deceived him by giving up on our dream, and how cruel I was for cutting him off, then complained he was going through a breakup and the fallout of a DUI. I told him he needed to seek comfort from someone else and that he had belittled me for years, and then I blocked him. I found out that a few days later he attempted suicide, telling his family that I had told him to fuck off when he reached out to me for help. A few people have called and asked for my version, and Ive told them. I dont even think his version is that far from the truth. I just dont care. Did I do something unconscionable? Should I have sucked it up and shown more compassion for this person whom, frankly, I have nothing but contempt for? Am I Responsible? Advertisement Advertisement You were extremely compassionate in your response to Matt. You just werent a doormat. His cruelty isnt the result of his depressionits a choice he makes, and his depression is entirely irrelevant. You encouraged him to seek help and set a reasonable limit. You had no idea he was about to attempt to hurt himself and could not have guessed it. He wants to make you feel personally responsible for his well-being, for his life or death, and if he cant successfully guilt you into doing what he wants, he wants to exert social pressure on you after the fact by blaming you. Im glad youve been able to clarify things with your mutual friends. My guess is youre not the only one whos seen this particular side of him and that your side of events will carry the day. You did everything right, and you can wish him all the best as he gets support from a great deal of people who arent you. Advertisement Dear Prudence Uncensored Next year get her some cute shoes or something. Daniel Mallory Ortberg and Nicole Cliffe discuss this letter in this weeks Dear Prudence Uncensoredonly for Slate Plus members. Dear Prudence, My husband is kind, treats me well, and has stood by me through many ups and downs, even moving across the country with me to be closer to my elderly father. We used to be extremely intimate, but 14 years later there is no longer any sexual chemistry. Try as I might, he does not respond and seems put off by my advances. I have absolutely no reason to doubt his fidelity; I think it is physical and have asked him to address it with a doctor. He has not done so. He seems fine with the status quo, and since he saw me through a patch of low desire, I feel I owe it to him to be patient. Advertisement Advertisement Still, I cant go on like this. I am stuck. I am comfortable living alone, so that shouldnt be a problem. However, my identity is defined with him as my partner, and its hard to bear the thought of him not being around. He is my best friend, after all. I am really starting to wonder if I would be better off single. This is such a difficult decision. Do I choose stability and companionship over living a fully independent lifestyle where I am free to explore as I please? This would be a second divorce for me, and I dont know if I can bear it. I am so confused. Is Life Really Too Short for This? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I dont know how long your own patch of low desire lasted or how long this dry spell has been going on with your husband. But if the only conversation youve had with him about it has been to ask him to see his doctor, theres plenty more for you two to discuss before you start worrying about whether its time to divorce. Does your husband agree that its a purely physical issue? Does he want to talk about why hes lost interest in sex and whether he sees that changing in the future? Most people who suddenly shut down sexually after years of marriage arent going to be eager to go into detail as to why, but if you make it clear you want to know more about what hes going through because you care about him and youre feeling alienated and confused enough that youre wondering whether your marriage has a future, he might be more inclined to have a conversation hed otherwise try to avoid. You may also want to discuss the possibility of opening up your marriage, especially if you still love the stability and companionship you can provide each other while still prioritizing your sex life. Advertisement Advertisement Dear Prudence, My niece, who is single and 36, has just this year purchased a small house. Shes employed full time and is making a decent wage. Ive noticed that she rarely visits or calls her grandmother (my mom) except near her own birthday and Christmas. Whenever she does visit, she always asks my mother for money. Once it was for $18,000 for school (my mother said no), and this last time it was for $4,000 for a new roof. This time, my mom took her to lunch, tried to give her suggestions on how to save for it, and explained she unfortunately couldnt loan her the money. Later in the week, my brother called me, furious that my mother offered to lend the money and then backed out. Then he said, Its not like its a whole lot of money, or that it would be missed. Advertisement I was appalled. My reply was, where does my niece get off asking her grandmother repeatedly for large sums of money? Shes been loaned money before and hasnt paid it back. Shes employed and capable of saving money, so why is she calling her dad to complain that her grandmother isnt giving her Christmas bonuses? And why doesnt her dad give her a loan? He makes good money too. I realize its not my problem to solve, but my mom is quite upset and a tad heartbroken that her granddaughter and her son are treating her like a special go-to piggy bank. Ive tried to comfort my mom but dont quite know what to say to help her. Saving My Mom From Her Niece Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Im glad your mom has you for support. I imagine it must be pretty painful to realize your perfectly comfortable son and granddaughter only show interest in you when they think youre about to turn a profit for them. Offering a sympathetic ear and reassurance that she didnt do anything wrong in refusing to grant the loan should go a long way. If your brother ever tries to get you involved in their joint attempts to chisel your mother out of money, I hope youll cut him off before hes finished and let him know youre not interested in helping him further damage his relationship with her. Advertisement Classic Prudie Four years ago, my sweet and loving husband, the awesome father of our three children, was struck down by brain cancer and suffered brain trauma following emergency surgery. Ive cared for him at home, dealing with the hassles of hospitals, insurance, family drama (his parents blame me for his health issues). He will never recover, and he is declining. It is like being married to a 41-year-old Alzheimers patient. He does not remember me, our long marriage, or our kids. Im trying to place him in a nursing home, but there are waiting lists. About a year ago, I met a man who was genuine and kind. As the friendship grew, he began helping with my kids, even helping my husband by playing music and visiting with him. My boyfriend knows I am committed to giving my husband the care he deserves and respects that this is a package deal. Once my husband can be placed in a good facility, I will pursue divorce, while making sure he is properly cared for until he passes on. My boyfriend and I recently found out that, despite using protection, Im pregnant. We are excited, as once I am legally able, we want to marry. My family is not happy, as in their eyes this is not appropriate, and they have been icing me out. They adored my husband and have had little chance to get to know my boyfriend, since I live in another state. How can I smooth over my relationship with my family? Care and Feeding is Slates parenting advice column. In addition to our traditional advice, every Thursday we feature an assortment of teachers from across the country answering your education questions. Have a question for our teachers? Email askateacher@slate.com or post it in the Slate Parenting Facebook group. This weeks Ask a Teacher panel: Amy Scott, eighth grade, North Carolina Katie Holbrook, high school teacher, Texas Carrie Bauer, middle and high school, New York Brandon Hersey, second grade, Washington Advertisement Recently, my 11-year-old daughter Sophie came home from school and told me that a boy in her class threatened to hold a gun up to another little girls head because he was mad at her. She went on to explain that the teacher got quite upset about this happening and took all the children that witnessed the event to another room to talk to the children and the principal about what happened. The child who made the threat was in school the following day. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As a parent, this concerned me greatly. I am wondering if this situation was taken seriously enough. I want to know: Is my child safe attending that school? Does that little boy have access to guns? Were the police notified? What exactly is being done to prevent this from actually happening? I wrote my concerns in an email to the teacher, and his response shocked me. In his first email, he said he had no knowledge of the event that Sophie described. I found this very odd as Sophie explained it very clearly. She is 11, so it is possible that some details got left out or added in, but to make up the whole scenario seems very out of character. He said he would speak with her and get back to me. Advertisement Advertisement His follow-up email indicated that he spoke with Sophie and with the administration and said that the situation is being dealt with at an administrative level and did not provide any other information. As a parent, I am not satisfied with this response. I expect more details. I want to know that my child is safe. Am I out of line? Am I owed a better explanation as to what is happening in that school? Advertisement Concerned Momma Dear Concerned Momma, Thats so scary. I totally sympathize with your fears. We live in a world where, unfortunately, the threat of gun violence in our schools is very real. My heart goes out to the families in Colorado who have most recently seen this threat turn into tragedy. Advertisement Im a little confused. Are the teacher who got upset and Sophies classroom teacher different people? If not, that means either the teacher or Sophie is lying about what happened, which as you said is unlikely. If so, its still strange that the other teacher didnt relay the information to Sophies classroom teacher. This is a serious issue, and all adults in the school who interact with the child should be made aware so they can monitor and intervene if necessary. Advertisement Advertisement Its natural for you to want more information, but there are some things that you may not be able to find out. Assuming Sophie goes to a public school that receives federal funds, the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) (20 U.S.C. 1232g; 34 CFR Part 99) protects students records. The teacher and administration are not allowed to give you specifics about what happened to the child who made the threat. They cannot tell you about possible motivations, family issues, or consequences. Unfortunately, they cant even tell you if he has access to a gun. They can tell appropriate authorities if they have concerns. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And they can tell you about the schools established safety protocols and/or plans to prevent future violence. Id inquire with the administration about those. Are they discussing the issue of school violence with the children? (I mean, other than lockdown drills.) Do school counselors teach lessons about what students should do if they are threatened or witness someone else being threatened? Are they inviting guest speakers or having special assemblies about the issue? Is there a school resource officer in the building? Because of FERPA, school officials cant tell you whether they reported the incident to law enforcement, but you can certainly request that they do or, depending how passionate you feel about it, I suppose you could do it yourself. Advertisement Whatever you do, encourage your daughter to keep speaking up when things like this occur. Often, a teachers best chance at intervention comes from student tips. Ms. Scott Get Care and Feeding in Your Inbox Introducing Slates Parenting newsletter, featuring the best of Care and Feeding, Mom and Dad Are Fighting, and Slates family coverage. We encountered an issue signing you up. Please try again. Please enable javascript to use form. Email address: Send me updates about Slate special offers. By signing up, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms Sign Up Thanks for signing up! You can manage your newsletter subscriptions at any time. I am a high school teacher at a magnet school, where we are frequently ranked as No. 1 in my county, and we are high in the state. I have taught social studies here for six years. My school eliminated standard classes before I got here, so I teach ninth grade honors, but that is actually the lowest-level class. Advertisement Advertisement I am struggling with the appropriate level of rigor to have in this class. My department chair thinks I am not rigorous enough. He wants more reading at home and more frequent testing. Ive been told by my students that I give the most work and my tests are the hardest. Obviously I take their feedback with a grain of salt. But every year I have more and more students with poor grades. They say they study, their test scores say otherwise, and its hard to tell if theyre lying to me about the work they put in at home. Advertisement My homework is reading and taking textbook notes for an open-notes quiz that we have about every other week, as well as studying for quizzes and tests. It would never be a random worksheet unless a student is making something up from class time. My school has a huge problem with student anxiety and overall mental health. I dont want to add to the gigantic workloads I know they already have. I should also add that I attended a small, college prep all-girls high school myself where it was run like a college seminar. I want to push back on the workload pressure here but maintain high standards. I dont feel like my department chair understands the stress of the kids, and he isnt helpful on this. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Seeking Balance Dear Seeking Balance, A number of years ago when I was teaching AP English, one of my students complained to me about her AP U.S. History teacher. She said she hated his class because it was hard but she liked my class because it was easy. I bristled at this. I did not consider my class easy at all; in fact, I worked very hard to create a college-level syllabus. But I took a breath and asked her what she meant. She was frustrated in history because she received low grades on her essays, but she didnt understand why. In my class, I taught students the essay rubric and helped them plan, draft, and revise their essays. His class was hard because she didnt understand the expectations or how to improve. Mine was easy because she felt confident that she could succeed. But was my course less rigorous? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Academic rigor is difficult to define and is also difficult to discuss when there isnt a shared definition. In general, rigor refers to the level of academic challenge. But what constitutes challenge? For some teachers, rigor means heavy workloads. For others, rigor is about critical thinking rather than the quantity of work. In my view, an appropriate level of challenge will depend on the students themselves. A text isnt rigorous if no one reads it; nor is it truly challenging if the students cant understand what they read. Advertisement I cant determine whether your class is appropriately challenging based on this letter, but I agree that more homework and more tests does not necessarily mean more rigor. Reflect on your professional experience and values as an educator. What does rigor mean to you? What does it look like in your course? And why is it that many students are not succeeding? Are they struggling in all of their classes, or just yours? Are there ways you can better support them in meeting challenging expectations? Of course, these are not easy questions to answer! I struggle with these myself. But taking the time to reflect will prepare you for future discussions with your department chair. Advertisement I encourage you to push back in defense of your students. Their mental health is importantmore important than the schools rank or reputation. If the pressure of this school is damaging their well-being, its important for teachers to be part of the solution. This doesnt mean you are lowering standards. Academic challenge isnt just about workloadits also about the type of work, and the type of thinking students engage in. Given that youre seeing a drop in grades over time, students probably need something different, not more of the same. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I know such conversations arent easy, as Ive had similar ones myself. Collect datagrades, of course, but you might also look for feedback from students (and maybe even parents) about their levels of stress and anxiety. Stay strong! Id love for you to write back and tell me how it goes. Advertisement Ms. Holbrook I have a 17-year-old son in 11th grade who is gifted in many ways, including IQ testing in the 99.9th percentile. Until this year, theyve had great grades. They started theater their sophomore year. After that, they decided theater is their life. Thats all fineI am truly happy my child has creative pursuits. This year, they requested to drop all Honors and AP classes to make room for their theatrical pursuits. I said reducing some classes but keeping others would be a good compromise, but that I would expect grades to stay the same or exceed the B average. They did that, and everything has been OK, until this final junior semester: F, D, C-, C, B-, and B are the current grades. This is a child who can pull A grades even in an accelerated environment like honors and AP. But their priorities are on theater. My son wants to get into college, and I am very aware this is the semester that colleges will look at. Any suggestions to help my child realize that the current course will curtail their future plans? Advertisement Advertisement Theaters Great, but School Matters, Too Dear TGbSMT, I would try a little motivation and a little tough love with your theater kid. For the motivation part, I might try seeking out some meaningful theater-based experiences for your child. Im envisioning experiences that signal you arent indulging them in their adolescent hobby but treating it as a serious and legitimate pursuit. I assume your child is actively participating in either the school drama program or a community theater group, so I would start by reaching out to the director and inquiring about potential connections or options. Are there workshops your child can attend? Do you live anywhere near a college where you might try to arrange for your student to shadow a student performer, or audit a drama class? Can your child be introduced to a director (or someone with a similarly significant role) for an informational interview? Advertisement Advertisement I think taking advantage of resources like this will help in two ways: One, it will indicate to your child that youre on their team, that youve bought into their passion and are confident in their potential. That goes a very long way toward building trust with teenagers, who are extraordinarily perceptive about when theyre being patronized or blown off. Two, it may well present an organic moment for your child to hear feedback about the role their grades will play in future endeavors from someone other than yourself. Seventeen-year-olds often dont perceive their parents to be credible sources on much of anything, so the more backup on this point, the better. Advertisement Advertisement As for the tough love from what I can tell, parents of kids this age fall all over the map in terms of their perspectives on how much direct intervention, management, and consequence-issuing is appropriate, and in what style to approach those things. I think you have to make the call about what will be most effective with your kid, based on their personality and your relationship. Maybe you have an honest, vulnerable Im worried about your choices conversation. Maybe you take a more straightforward position: I set the expectation that the scaled-down course load would be acceptable if you maintained a B average. You did not meet the expectationback into honors/AP you go! (That is, if the teachers will still have them.) Maybe your child responds to strictness: While youre still home and Im caring for you, your primary responsibility is school. Until youre fulfilling your primary responsibility, you dont get the privilege of theater. What will work beautifully with one kid will blow up spectacularly with another. Your child does need a reality check, I think, but the particular mode of delivery should be calibrated to knowledge of your own kid. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hopefully, your attempts will bring your theater kid back around to making a better effort in school, even if only as a means to pursuing their ultimate goal. They might not, though. Some 17-year-olds are happy to listen to and be guided by their parents. Many are not. You may discover that nothing you say or do influences your childs perspective and choices, and despite your best efforts, they remain hellbent on tanking their transcript. If that turns out to be the case, Id try to proceed with a light touch. Fulfilling the dream of theater is an exciting goal, but figuring out how to make it happen, on their own terms, is more important. Mistakes and bad choiceseven big onesare part of that learning. Your child will find their way. Advertisement Ms. Bauer My son is in fourth grade at our neighborhood public school. He has the same teacher his sister had three years ago and shes wonderful. Both of my kids are good students, never get in trouble, and are well-liked by their teachers. The school has pre-k-5 and includes about a dozen kids with noticeable disabilities. Each of the autistic children is assigned to both a special education classroom and a general classroom and moves back and forth as appropriate, either with or without an aide. I always saw this as a positive thing for everyone involved and was glad to see how much the autistic kids are part of the larger school community. Advertisement Advertisement This year, however, there is a boy in my sons class who is causing problems. Hes in the general classroom for most of the day with an aide, but he is consistently disruptive. He throws things, he yells, he swears. He has broken at least one Chromebook. In the fall, he threw a chair and hit my son in the back. Partway through the year, the aide got training to physically restrain the childand the rest of the class now has a cue that theyre to get up and leave quickly and quietly so that the child can be forcibly moved to the special ed classroom. There have been several classroom discussions about how to ignore this childs outbursts, how not to laugh when he shouts swear words, and how to respond when hes out of control. At least once a week, my son has a new story to tell about this kid. The teacher seems overwhelmed by the situation, and she is one of the most seasoned and capable teachers I can imagine. Advertisement Advertisement Am I a monster for thinking that this is just too much? My son is very tenderhearted and gets upset when any other kid is in trouble, which is more or less every day at this point. He finds it very difficult to tune it out. At what point does one childs need for the teachers attention harm the other 25 children? There is not much time left in this schoolyear. Would I be within my rights to request that my son and this boy not be in the same class next year? I feel for him and his parents, I really do. But dont I have to advocate for my own child? Advertisement To Request or Not? Advertisement Hey there Request, Thanks for thinking through this question so thoughtfully. It can be really tough to communicate and advocate for you own child when theyre in a classroom with kids who require a significant amount of attention. You are definitely not a monster. School safety is something that all teachers and all districts deal with day in and day out. You are well within your rights to request your son and this student not be in the same general education classroom next year. I know these conversations can seem a bit tense or awkward, but you should do whats in the best interest of your childs education. I would start by having a brief in-person meeting with the principal to address your concerns and then send a follow-up email to ensure they have a written notification of your request. In the meeting you could say something along the lines of, I want to be sensitive the needs of all children in our school community, but I am concerned my childs education will be impacted if he spends a second year in a class with (student). If it all possible I would like the two to be in separate classrooms in fifth grade. Speaking from experience, schools can be quite busy toward the end of the year and sending that follow-up email will help remind them of your conversation as they go through the class assignment process. I hope this helps, and good luck to your son as he finishes fourth grade! Mr. Hersey My mothers regular department store was 32 floors tall. Thirty-two floors of luxury goods in Bundang, Seoul, each department happy to accept her credit cards gifted by my fathers company. Beyond the department stores three golden, rotating entrance doors were playrooms, cafes, movie theaters, designer stores, and wedding halls. The floors above were divided into beauty, clothing, home, electronics, and books. In the basement, the discount and returns section of the store, paper won passed between shoppers and clerks. Nearby, nuptials from the hall; gunfire from the cinema. Advertisement My mother told me to call the girls working the clothing floor sisters. They greeted my mother with high, zesty voices ringing around the endless corners. The girls wore navy blue suit jackets with stiff collars and navy blue skirts and heels. Every hair was waxed, combed into a bun; every lip a bright red. The girls wore clean white gloves to handle expensive items. They turned their wrists in dove-winged gestures to direct my mother ahead, offering her a reduced price on a hot item bag and complimentary face masks. They said to her, Hello again, dear customer and Please ask us anything and Come in, take your time and Welcome to our store and We have everything youre looking for. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I barely stood on both feet, instead shifting my weight from one to the other, and I slouched. When the girls bowed to me, their mouths could not hide their apprehension at my wrestling shoes and my hoodie. They recognized me as a wealthy daughter who studied abroad and wore torn jeans and spoke English. I stared into the shop. Shiny displays of black dresses; cardigans for summer modesty. A feeling arose within me: I loved this place and its fineness. My heart landed on one lovely thing, then another. White scalloped tops on wooden hangers. Chiffon ruffle blouses on mannequins. Cream leather jackets with silver zippers. Meanwhile, my mother stormed through the shop as if it were a street market. Advertisement My fingertips grazed a shark toothpatterned coat. Teal and black pulsated through the coats body, all of it lined in silk. The collar was stiff and structured. The sleeves widened at the bottoma touch of whimsy. The shopgirl came up to me. Grinning, she must have believed she had caught a fishnot the mother but her daughter. Two inches shorter than me with an uncomplicated beauty, she was better suited for the coat than I was. Folding her gloved hands at her waist, she said, The colors unique. Its eye-catching, dont you think? Advertisement Thank you, sister. Its on sale, I said to help her cause. Because its a coat from this past winter. She raised the coat to eye level in front of us. Its too attractive to pass up, both the coat and the price. Advertisement Advertisement Its bold, sister, I said, keeping up with her formality. You cant not look at it, can you? She showed the back of the coat. If no one bought it, I wanted it for myself. I admired it like a lover, and here youve come to take it. Advertisement Advertisement Really? I asked. Im jealous, she said, and ran her fingers along the seam. The coat stands out and so do you. Youre meant for each other. I bowed, prepared to leave her department. But my mother, far ahead on the walkway, spun around to face me. Retracing her steps, she entered the section. The girl kept her back to my mother, seemingly ignoring her, but addressing me clearly so that she could hear. You look so young, and your Korean sounds delicate, she said to me. Whats your name? Advertisement My mother laughed. This is my daughter. The girl held her hands higher on her waist. She looks just like you, maam. Advertisement Advertisement Really, is that true? my mother asked. Of course, it makes me happy. Shes not like the girls here, she said. Was she born here? My daughter was born in Americait keeps her innocent. Oh, I can see it, the girl said. She must have no bad thoughts at all. My mother clapped once. If she got lost here, shed be gone forever! The girl said, You know how they say everything Everything comes to the surface eventually! My mother scrutinized the coat. She shook it out as if it was laundry fresh from the dryer. Only my daughter would pick this one. She was using her mother wit for a bargain, and my job was to notice it. Advertisement Your daughter has good taste, the girl said in reply. This looks cheap, like wholesale, my mother said. Whats the original price? The girl presented the tag with two hands. My mother looked impressed. This ratty old thing? Its one of a kind, the girl said to her. Hand-sewn. My mother scoured for loose threads and a discount. Lets go, I said to my mother, who was unaware of the other shoppers and their glances our way. I dont need it, sister. Thank you Advertisement Advertisement My mothers nails pinched my forearm. Hold on, she said to me. Give me a second. The next words mattered. The girl said to her, Your daughter is so lucky to have a mother like you. Advertisement My mother nodded approvingly. Lets do a bigger cut, off the price Oh, Im a shopgirl, she said. You know I cant haggle like that Whatever you can, Ill give you cash Please, dont fuss. This isnt a place for that Tell me the price again? My mother counted new, clean bills. Ill come back to your shop again with my friends next week, and well each buy something. The girl sighed. Are you sure? Mmm hmm. OK, fine, she said. Since youre a special customer. I wont forget it, my mother said. The girl wrapped the coat in a bag. Oh, I cant spit on a smiling face. Advertisement Yes, youve made us smile. My mother eased up and took the girls hand. Youre so smart and fast. Youre a good girl. You dont say too much, you dont give too much. The sale finished, the girls shoulders relaxed. She pulled me to her side, as though we were friends holding hands. I thought this was how it must feel to have a sister. Your daughter speaks Korean? she asked my mother. She speaks both, its impressive. Advertisement Advertisement This, my mother said, raising the bag with the coat, is the most expensive thing I ever bought her. She doesnt live in California like I do here. Its hard to take money and move it across the world. Its easier to move people. Advertisement Then your daughter should wear it out. My mother nodded gratefully as the girl swapped my hoodie with the coat. She guided me into the sleeves, one after the other, then gave me a tie to pull my hair back. Advertisement Advertisement How is it? the girl asked me. Do you feel refreshed? Oh, oh, shes starting to look like me, my mother said. Do you see? Its her eyes, she said. Your daughter has the best of both. Shell grow up to have a glamorous figure, like an American. When she came in today, I could tell she was different. She has so much ki. You cant help but notice. The girls are curious. They were saying, How mysterious! How quiet, solemn, dark-skinned. Can she be so young? Advertisement Its my fault. My mother took the bag with the hoodie, tucked it under her arm. Its all my doing. I made her suffer too much. I didnt know what to give her, so I gave her pain. Shes lovely, isnt she? Advertisement She is pure, the girl comforted her. Youve suffered too, my mother said to her. Whose poor daughter are you? My parents are missionaries, she said. Ill marry and move into my husbands house to live with his parents the day before my waist thickens but no sooner. My mother patted her head. You have a lucky forehead. Youll have many suitors. And youre right to wait. Nobody loves you like your mother. Not your father, not your husband, and not your children. While your parents are alive, eat as much of their love as you can, so it can sustain you for the rest of your life. Advertisement In the shops oval mirror, the coat embraced me. What a reduction, the girl said to me. Youre lucky to have a mother like her. My mother said, There was one woman, prettier than anyone. It was my own mother. Back in the old days, you couldnt hide beauty. In those plain huts, dirt roads, can you imagine how she stood out? It was impossible to live in the countryside. She died young and tragically. My mother squeezed my hand in hers. I was a little girl when she died, and she left me to live without her. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For an early dinner, we hunted for barbecued duck. My mother drove outside the city, past a construction site, onto an uphill road, through a forest of pale-limbed trees with thin branches that pointed to the sky. Where the road narrowed, we came to a hidden driveway and a two-story restaurant on wooden stilts. Advertisement The duck was presented in neat rows of thin slices, sunning on our floor table. Pointing to the new coat I was wearing, my mother would not let me cook. Using metal chopsticks, she rested a slice over the grill, charred it on each side, dipped the cooked slice into a sweet mustard, and fed it to me. Tender, rich, and smoky. Driving here no longer seemed out of the way. Our iced coffees were $10 each. Slow down, my mother said. Youre going to choke. Lets order more, I said, feeling more awake. More mustard, too. Are you starving yourself at home? I did not tell her that I ate cookies, chips, cereal, and emptied the cupboards. Even as I felt pain in my stomach, I wanted more. The first time I made myself throw up, at the age of 16, I felt relief. From then on it was normal for me to go on eating, then undo what I had done. There were tooth marks on my knuckles; my jaw was swollen. Advertisement Advertisement For all I knew, I was the only person in the world throwing up my food. Only I could feel the bones of my feet in my shoes; only I saw my nails feather at the tips and felt scared when I noticed a piece of my throat, a strip of flesh, sinking to the bottom of the toilet bowl. I had told myself that I would not do it while staying with my mother. Advertisement The waitress kneeled at our table and hugged me, causing my chopsticks to clatter to the floor. She removed new ones from her apron, set them on the table, and said, I feel like Im seeing a ghost. I have listened to your mother talk about you for hours. She had to bring you out here just to prove to me that you were real. She didnt pay you, did she? Advertisement The waitress, who looked to be in her 40s, had wrinkles around her mouth. Women with sons have this face, my mother once told me. While you can fight with your daughter, you must bite your tongue in front of your son. She scooted right next to me and warned me about my mothers friends, or the wives of my fathers friends: Those people, theyll see a girl like you, take you to a place like this, then get you drunk and bring you home to one of their mansions, and theyll trap you and lock you in a room with one of their lonely sons! Advertisement Advertisement My mother laughed. She used to be a waitress and must often have found herself friendlier with waitstaff than she was with my fathers friends and their wives. Young women, she said, are more valuable than men these days. Advertisement God, the waitress said, slapping the floor. Theyd be overjoyed to get her pregnant and then force her to marry their sons. Then theyd get a daughter and a grandchild. A daughter to order around, a grandchild to show off. It wasnt always like that, said my mother. While you can fight with your daughter, you must bite your tongue in front of your son. Praise the Lord, said the waitress. Do you like her new coat? my mother asked. Its true what they say, the waitress said to me. Your clothes are your wings. Advertisement The waitress shifted from a kneel to a squat, dug into her back pocket, and slid an envelope across the floor. My mother bowed to her, gathered the envelope, and transferred it into a larger envelope inside her purse. Advertisement My husbands friends wife wants to meet my daughter tonight, my mother said. They both acted as though the envelope had not passed between them. Shes buying us barbecued eel. That woman has an elevator in her house! The waitress clapped her hands. What a lonely woman to beg! Pity is the path to mutuality, said my mother. Oh, screw pity. She has an elevator! My mother drove to her regular bathhouse, which we entered through a parking garage so far underground that you could feel the air cooling. We emerged from an elevator. She paid at the front desk. The woman set out two sets of shirts and shorts to sweat in, and towels. We rinsed in the showers. We soaked inside the pools. The steam rose, filigree above our shoulders in the shape of white swans. On spa tables, our bodies were scrubbed raw and rolls of dead skin collected beneath us. Advertisement I asked my mother about the envelope. My mothers friends saved for big purchases by adding each month to a pot, and one of them received the gye payout on a rotating basis. The women had chosen my mother to be their collector and distributor. She was good with numbers in her head at the market. Her eyes were closed. With my payout? she asked me. I send it to my brothers. I left you and your brother to come here and be with my side of the family. But I dont know how their lives can be so difficult. How can they live so poorly? How can I ask your dad for money to help my brothers? My brothers are too proud. She took a towel and put it over her face. Through the cloth, she said, So, I send my brothers wives bags of rice. I give envelopes of money to their children. If our own mother hadnt died so young, maybe things wouldve been different. How can they lead such unfortunate lives? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Our bodies were flipped onto our sides and the scrubbing resumed. I dont know why Im crying, she said to me. I dont know Who cares, you feel bad, I said. Listen to you, she said, sharply. Koreans dont say who cares to their mothers. One day, youll have a daughter who treats you like you treat me. We rinsed ourselves with ginseng body wash. Then, we headed to the outside main room with an ondol-heated floor in our shirts and shorts. We entered the clay room and left after a short time. We crawled into a dome-shaped stone sauna and sat on the floor. My mother apologized. Youre old enough to be my friend, she said. Advertisement You have a lot of friends. She said, My friend from college, Hae Won. We tried to be news anchors. News anchors? I asked. You never talked about it. Because you see me now, but if you saw me then I was good, really. She wiped her sweat off. She motioned for me to do the same. My mother was good at everything. Did you pass the audition? I did, my mother said, but Hae Won didnt. And you became a news anchor? No, Hae Won lied. She told me I didnt pass either. What? I said. That makes no sense. My dad never let me out of the house. Hae Won checked the results for us and said that we didnt make it. The broadcasting station was waiting. They called me to tell me they couldnt wait any longer. After a month, they had hired somebody else. Advertisement Koreans dont say who cares to their mothers. One day, youll have a daughter who treats you like you treat me. Are you still friends with her? I asked. I am, she said. Two persimmons, getting old. Whatwhy? Lets drink something delicious, my mother said. Advertisement She charged my sweet rice drink to her tab. The ice was refreshing in the hot rooms. I kept one cube under my tongue. My mother led me into the charcoal room. She poured water over the heated rocks in the corner. We shuffled onto the floor and sat facing one another. You know Hae Won? The one who lies? my mother said after a silence. I already told you that her daughter is a news anchor. Do you remember? We see her on TV. She has short hair and a button nose. Shes prettier in person. We watch her on variety shows and news broadcasts. I go to see Hae Won and we record them together. One time, this was in front of my friends, I asked if she thought my daughter could pass for a news anchor. Hae Won said my daughters face is too big for the screen. Your face needs to fit inside a CD disc to look good on television. From your forehead to your chin. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I measured my face with my palm for the first time. How many people can cover their face with a disc? she asked. Maybe you shouldnt be friends. You think so? I nodded, but she disagreed. God is fair, she said, and clasped our hands together. Hae Won had a stroke. Half her face melted off, and it sags down past her chin. When she smiles, it bends into a sneer. You see, God is vengeful so we dont have to be. At the end of our time at the bathhouse, I put on my coat and followed my mother into the parking garage where she fed her ticket into a machine. We drove home in silence. After we got out of the car, we went for a walk around the Tancheon tributary. Advertisement Advertisement I worried about whether I ought to take off my coat or wear it casually on the walking path along the river. I feared my mother might admire me wearing it and express her satisfaction. But I felt it would be worse to put the coat away. When I asked my mother about her own mother, she said, How fun would it have been if my mother was here with us? We would scrub each others backs, like baby monkeys sitting in a neat row. Advertisement She would be the most beautiful. My mother laughed. She had a big face, but it was a beautiful big face. And shed never let you leave the department store with just one coat. She wouldve bought you a dozen. Then she tugged my sleeve. If you ever get sick of wearing this, give it to me. Ill save it for you, and one day, youll think about it and ask me for it. Youll say, Oh, that coat from then! When you put it on, youll feel like its brand new. I feel refreshed, I said. Do I remind you of her? Your brother tells me that youre strong and you never cry, my mother said. She smiled sadly. You know how my mother is dead? Do you think she feels lonely? Students at the STEM School Highlands Ranch in Colorado stormed out of a vigil honoring their slain classmate on Wednesday evening in anger over what they saw as a political stunt using their tragedy to push for gun control. We are people, not a statement, the students shouted as they marched out of the gymnasium at the nearby Highlands Ranch High School. Hundreds of students, teachers, and activists had attended the vigil, which was billed as honoring Kendrick Castillo, a teenager fatally shot when he tried to tackle one of the shooters in a spree on Tuesday that left eight others injured at a charter school in a Denver suburb. Two students, 18 and 16, have been arrested. Advertisement The event was organized by a gun control group called the Brady Campaign to Prevent Gun Violence. According to USA Today, many students appeared to have been unaware that the event was organized by an advocacy group. A half-hour in, after Sen. Michael F. Bennett and Rep. Jason Crow of Colorado spoke about gun regulations, the students became furious at what they saw as the politicization of their trauma. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I thought this was about us, not about politics, one student said, according to the Washington Post. Another student argued that they were not a statistic and shouldnt be cited to justify gun control: We are people, not a statement. The students held their phones flashlights into the air and chanted, mental health, mental health. They also confronted journalists, whom the Brady Center had invited to cover the event, calling them derogatory names, according to the Denver Post, and asking to see what photos they had taken. The Brady Center apologized for the vigil later on Wednesday. We are here to lift up the voices of victims and survivors, the statement said. We are deeply sorry any part of this vigil did not provide the support, caring and sense of community we sought to foster and facilitate. According to the Washington Post, some students returned to the gymnasium later to finish the event. We wanted Kendrick to be mourned, one student who addressed the crowd said. We wanted all of you to join us in that mourning. But that was not allowed here. Denver narrowly voted in favor of decriminalizing hallucinogenic mushrooms Tuesday in the first referendum of its kind in the nation. Election officials announced the result Wednesday afternoon that the ballot measure passed by a 50.6 percent to 49.4 percent margin with 176,000 votes cast. The ballot measureknown as Initiative 301requires police to deemphasize personal possession or use of psilocybin mushrooms, which are a Schedule I controlled substance under federal law, such that it is the lowest law enforcement priority in the City and County of Denver. The initiative also calls on the city to establish a review panel to assess the impacts of decriminalization, including public safety, fiscal, and health impacts. Advertisement The language of the initiative is similar to that of the marijuana decriminalization measure passed by Denver voters ahead of a statewide vote on the matter in 2012. Psychedelic mushrooms still would remain illegal to buy, sell or possess, with the latter crime a felony that carries a potential punishment of up to a year in prison and a fine, the Denver Post reports. But Initiative 301 backers hope to lower the risk users face of getting caught with mushrooms. Denvers law enforcement community was not thrilled by the prospect of more readily available hallucinogens, the Washington Post reports. But a number of studies have shown that psilocybin can have positive, lasting effects on depression, chronic pain, post-traumatic stress disorder, addictions and anxiety. The voting took place over three weeks, and support for the initiative trailed until the final days when a surge in voters edged the measure past the finish line. To listen to the discussion, use the player below: Get More Political Gabfest Slate Plus members get extended, ad-free versions of our podcastsand much more. Sign up today. Join Slate Plus Subscribe to the Political Gabfest Copy this link and add it in your podcast app. copy link copied! For detailed instructions, see our Slate Plus podcasts page. Listen to Slates Political Gabfest via Apple Podcasts, Overcast, Spotify, Stitcher, or Google Play. On this weeks Slate Political Gabfest, Emily Bazelon, John Dickerson, and David Plotz discuss Trumps showdown with Congress, the trade war with China, and what socialism means to Democrats. Here are some of the links and references from this weeks show: Steve Contorno for the Tampa Bay Times: Marco Rubio in 2012: No one can be above the law, not even the Attorney General Advertisement Russ Buettner and Susanne Craig for the New York Times: Decade in the Red: Trump Tax Figures Show Over $1 Billion in Business Losses Josh Barro for New York magazine: There Is No Way Donald Trump Actually Lost $1.17 Billion Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jan Hoffman and Abby Goodnough for the New York Times: Trump Administration Files Formal Request to Strike Down All of Obamacare National Bureau of Economic Research: U.S. Consumers Have Borne the Brunt of the Current Trade War Franklin Foer for the Atlantic: Elizabeth Warrens Theory of Capitalism Elizabeth Warren for Democracy journal: Unsafe at Any Rate John Dickerson for Slate: Risk: The Story of Americas Greatest Idea Here are this weeks cocktail chatters: Emily: Andrea L. Roth in the California Law Review: Spit and Acquit: Prosecutors as Surveillance Entrepreneurs Advertisement Advertisement John: CBS News: American Siblings Trapped in China Make Public Plea for Help: We Wake Up Every Morning Terrified ; Russian Spy Whale Retrieves iPhone David: Atlas Obscura: Malm Whale Listener chatter from Cyrus Farivar @cfarivar: Alix Martichoux for SFGate Pothole Vigilantes are covertly fixing Oakland roads in the middle of the night For this weeks Slate Plus bonus segment Emily, David, and John talk about Johns new job at 60 Minutes. Topic ideas for next week? You can tweet suggestions, links, and questions to @SlateGabfest. Tweet us your cocktail chatter using #cocktailchatter or post it to our Facebook page. (Messages may be quoted by name unless the writer stipulates otherwise.) Become a fan of the Political Gabfest on Facebook and follow us on Twitter @SlateGabfest. The email address for the Political Gabfest is gabfest@slate.com. (Email may be quoted by name unless the writer stipulates otherwise.) Podcast production by Jocelyn Frank. Research and show notes by Bridgette Dunlap. Thanks to the British governments failure to wrap up Brexit by the original deadline, Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor was born a European Union citizen this week. Will he still be one by the time hes bumming around the Continent on his gap year? Unclear! This week in Theresa May: During Prime Ministers Questions on Wednesday, Theresa May rejected calls from members of her own party for her to quit over her handling of Brexit and declined to provide a timetable for her eventual departure, saying it was not an issue about me. Back in March, May promised to quit after Parliament ratified her withdrawal agreement, which has not happened after multiple attempts, but shes been unclear how long she plans to stick around if Brexit is not finalized. Pressure on her to step down has only grown since the party took a beating in last weeks local elections. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement May has agreed to discuss her future in a meeting next week with the 1922 Committee, the vaunted group of Tory men in grey suits (and now some women) that oversees leadership contests. Because Mays rivals tried, and failed, to unseat her in a confidence vote last December, they cant hold another vote until next December under party rules, but theyve been talking about changing that rule, because rules are just, like, stuff you make up, man. This week in Theresa and Jeremy: May still says she wants to have another vote on her withdrawal plan before European elections on May 23. Shes lost the support of Brexiteers in her own coalition, so if she wants to get it passed, shell need to reach an agreement with the opposition Labour Party and has been in ongoing talks with Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn. Advertisement Advertisement Hows that going? Corbyn says theres been no big offer from May and that her red lines are still in place, probably meaning she hasnt budged on her opposition to Britain staying in a customs union with the EU, a key Labour demand. Corbyn threw in a dig: Its actually quite difficult negotiating with a disintegrating government, with cabinet ministers jockeying for succession rather than working for an agreement. Advertisement This week in the Greens: After a strong showing in the local elections, the Greens have launched their bid for the European elections this week on a platform of opposition to Brexit and action on climate change. European elections are always fertile ground for smaller partiesvoters see them as lower stakes and are more likely to use them for protest votesand that may be even more the case this year given the deadlock, with support likely to drain from the two main parties to hard-line pro- and anti-Brexit groups. The Greens, also looking to capitalize on the energy of this months Extinction Rebellion protests in London, support a second referendum on Brexit. So do the more centrist Liberal Democrats, who also picked up seats in the local elections, as does the newly formed party Change UK. On the other side, Nigel Farages self-explanatory Brexit Party is also expected to pick up seats. Corbyn, meanwhile, is calling on voters to move beyond the leave vs. remain debate. Good luck with that. This week in being an MP: Threats directed at MPs more than doubled to 342 in 2019, according to the Metropolitan Police, who blamed polarized opinion on political issues. Women and minorities receive a disproportionate share of the threats. Concern about politicians safety in the U.K. has grown since the murder of Labour MP Jo Cox by a right-wing extremist in 2016. Days until next deadline: 176 It is probably safe to say that this is not how we imagined Americas little fling with representative democracy would end. But on Wednesday morning, New York Rep. Jerrold Nadler described the battle unfolding between the Trump White House and Congress thusly: The ongoing clash between congressional Democrats and President Trump over the Mueller report has turned into a full-blown constitutional crisis. On Thursday morning, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi used the same turn of phrase, warning that the nation is now in a constitutional crisis. Advertisement In the totality of Trump scandals, this weeks is rather boring and technical. The problem at hand: The House Judiciary Committee seeks to interview William Barr, the attorney general of the United States, on the subject of the Mueller report. When he refused to show up, they voted to hold him in contempt of Congress for doing so. Meanwhile, the president has opted to assert seemingly boundless executive privilege in an attempt to shield the unredacted Mueller report from congressional scrutiny. The question at hand is basically: What happens in this standoff between Congress and the president? The stalemate, and immovable positioning, is certainly making it feel as though we are hurtling at high speeds toward a new precipice. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As Adam Liptak concluded in the New York Times Tuesday, we are clearly facing an impending threat to our established constitutional order. (As a refresher, that order, as laid out in the Constitution, is that Congress is tasked with overseeing the executive branch, but the executive branch can keep designated things secret.) Even John Yoo, architect of the infamous Bush-era torture memos, seemed to agree that the constitutional impasse weve reached is without precedent. As former federal prosecutor Mimi Rocah explains, the White Houses sweeping refusal to cooperate with Congress on any investigation has the makings of a constitutional crisis, because the head of the Justice Department is now helping block congressional investigations into the president regardless of law or merit. Advertisement Are we currently in the midst of a genuine constitutional crisis? Would we even know one if it bonked us on the heads? The last time people started throwing the C-words around, it was January of 2017, when the newly inaugurated Trump had just signed an executive order closing Americas borders to travelers and refugees from seven majority-Muslim countries. The courts had ordered him to reverse it, but for a few days it seemed as if agents from Customs and Border Protection were going to simply ignore that and enforce the travel ban as written. Here at Slate, we tried to figure out whether this disrupted chain of command meant a constitutional crisis was about to happen, or already happening, or light years away. We canvassed constitutional scholars for their opinions, and most had concluded that we werent there yet. (CBP complied with court orders, and eventually a twice-revised travel ban prevailed at the Supreme Court.) Advertisement Advertisement Get The Angle in Your Inbox Slate's daily newsletter rounds up the stories you need to read. We encountered an issue signing you up. Please try again. Please enable javascript to use form. Email address: Send me updates about Slate special offers. By signing up, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms Sign Up Thanks for signing up! You can manage your newsletter subscriptions at any time. But Pelosi and Nadlers constitutional crisis language has raised the possibility, once again, that America has unwittingly crossed into a red zone; that an immovable conflict between two coequal branches is about to take place or is perhaps already taking place. So, we went back to some of our most eminent constitutional experts to ask them whether wed slid over a line this week. The results were very mixed, which perhaps perfectly encapsulates the problem. In reflecting on how this is possible, its useful to keep in mind the words of Orin Kerr, who teaches law at the USC Gould School of Law and was quick to warn that the phrase constitutional crisis means different things to different people: There is no accepted definition, unfortunately, so the phrase gets tossed around by a lot of people without it meaning very much. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement No Constitutional Crisis: Jed Shugerman, Fordham Law professor and Slate contributor, notes that there is a formal definition and we arent there yet: This current episode is not a constitutional crisis because the Constitution is still functioning as designed, in terms of separation of powers. The key question to me is whether either party bypasses the courts or defies the courts. The House subpoenas documents, the executive branch makes legal arguments against those subpoenas, and the courts will hear this dispute. These are checks and balances by design. A constitutional crisis would be the House trying to arrest [Treasury Secretary Steve] Mnuchin or Barr without a court orderthe hypocritical lock him up. And a constitutional crisis would be Trump or his administration ignoring a court order to turn over documents. Right now, Trump and his administration are just ignoring a congressional order, not a court order. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Walter Dellinger, former acting solicitor general in the Clinton administration, agrees: We are not in a constitutional crisis. We will be when a final court order is defied. He adds that the administration isnt helping its case: The White House is seriously weakening its position in court by claiming executive privilege against all document and testimony requests. Such an extravagant claim gives the lie to the argument that it has a particularized need for confidentiality. The House should be careful not to give up the high ground by making demands that are more sweeping than are strongly defensible. Carolyn Shapiro, former Illinois solicitor general and faculty member at the Chicago-Kent College of Law, agrees that the formal definition of constitutional crisis may not be upon usbut that were on the brink of something even more complicated: Sadly, I think we have several interrelated constitutional and democratic crises. First, we have aggressive partisan gerrymandering, voter suppression, and lame duck lawmaking designed to remove power from incoming officials (as in Wisconsin and North Carolina after recent GOP losses in statewide elections), all of which undermine representative democracy. Second, we know that a foreign adversary has tried and intends to try again to disrupt our elections, but Republican leaders appear unconcerned at best. And third, we have President Trumps myriad misdeeds, whichat a minimumdemand a thorough and public investigation if not impeachment. I see these all as related because they all involve contempt for representative democracy, an unwillingness to tolerate the possibility of losing or sharing power with ones political rivals, and an utter disdain for the Constitution. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rhode Island Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse also suggests that we havent yet arrived at the official red line: The breaking point is either when a right wingcaptured Trump appointee on the federal bench fails to uphold Congress oversight authority, or when a federal judge does uphold that authority and the Trump administration simply ignores it. He adds that this is, however, a failure of basic checks and balances: Whatever the case, the two political branches shouldnt be anywhere near such a crisis. Republicans in Congress ought to defend the rights and duties of their branchjust as they claimed to do under previous administrations. Yes, Constitutional Crisis: Sherrilyn Ifill, president and director-counsel of the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund, was emphatic: Yes. We are. My line in the sand was Barrs confirmation without a commitment to recuse, given the letter he wrote last summer. It turned out exactly as it would obviously turn out once he was confirmed. But seriously, the invocation of executive privilege to bar a congressional committee from investigation or oversight is fully over the line. Advertisement Neal Katyal, who served as acting solicitor general in the Obama administration, feels the same way: We were in a constitutional crisis from the moment of the election, having a leader who has contempt for his constitutional duty to take care that the law be faithfully executed. Everythingfrom the Muslim ban to the defiance of Congress oversight responsibilitiesstems from that initial attitude. And thats just the stuff that we know about. The presidency for all sorts of legitimate reasons acts with secrecy and dispatch, so while we are now learning about more and more instances of wrongdoing, its a mistake to think a lot of constitutional transgressions are only now taking place all of a sudden. Past presidents have had an attitude of constitutional compliance, not this one. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Professor Dawn Johnsen, of the Maurer School of Law at Indiana University, makes the same point: The Mueller report and reaction to it confirm that we are deep into a constitutional crisis, deeper than we collectively seem to appreciate. Unlike the proverbial frog who boils to death rather than leap from a gradually warming pot of water, we had strong reason to jump from the start. Impeachment proceedings would be a constitutionally appropriate response, but whether they would advance the vital goal of addressing the crisis and ending the Trump presidency in 2020 is unclear. Constitutional Crisis Is the Wrong Question: Caroline Fredrickson, president of the American Constitution Society for Law and Policy, says were asking the wrong question altogether: Its been an ongoing crisis. Whats hard to evaluate is when the temperature is so high that we actually begin to boila constitutional crisis isnt necessarily something that happens at one point in time. Now we have a situation where a series of injuries to the health of our democracy and rule of law exert cumulative harm. If we wait for some red line it will be too late. Advertisement Ian Bassin, executive director of Protect Democracy and former associate White House counsel from 200911, makes the same point about using the wrong measuring stick: Expecting there to be a specific moment that marks a clear constitutional crisis is the wrong way to look at the situation we face as a nation. These modern autocrats like Trump dont roll the tanks into the town square at a dramatic climax. Instead, they chip away slowly at the constitutional order, never providing their uncomfortable accomplices or committed opponents a definitive moment to act, but freezing them in a constant state of paralysis, all the while normalizing abnormal and dangerous behavior. Sure, the president defying a court order or rejecting election results would be thunderclap moments, but if we dont act before we get there, it will be too late. The true crisis is that on day one, Trump placed one hand on the Bible and crossed the fingers on his other behind his back. He swore to take care that the laws be faithfully executed but never really intended to. And so, since that day, the president of the United States has been a walking constitutional crisis. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Harvard Law School professor Laurence Tribe agrees that this probably isnt the time to parse legal language: Crisis schmisiswhats in a word? Were under an ongoing cyberattack from a hostile foreign power that helped install an imbecilic self-seeking con man as our leader, who committed numerous felonies to avoid being held accountable for his illegitimate election, who is encouraging ongoing attacks by that same foreign power and others, who violates his oath of office daily, and who seems secure from removal by virtue of a spineless Senate abetted by a cowardly House. Our constitutional norms are in meltdown as we watch in helpless stupor waiting for the monster to steal or cancel the next election. If this doesnt qualify as a crisis, the word should be retired forthwith. Take note of how many of our experts are talking in reference to metaphorical frogs in hypothetical pots, please. What they seem to agree on is that if youre waiting for the lawyers to tell you that it smells a lot like freshly steamed amphibian, youre doing it wrong. At a rally in Panama City Beach, Florida, on Wednesday night, President Donald Trump complained to his supporters that there was an invasion of migrants at the U.S.-Mexico border. This meant, he asserted, that there were just a couple of Border Patrol agents to handle hundreds and hundreds of people arriving en masse. And dont forget, we dont let them and we cant let them use weapons, he said. We cant. Other countries do. We cant. I would never do that. But how do you stop these people? Advertisement Shoot them! someone in the audience of about 7,000 shouted. The crowd laughed, and many applauded. Trump smiled and shook his head. Thats only in the Panhandle you can get away with that statement, he said. The crowd cheered. Only in the Panhandle. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At his rally tonight, Trump says the government is unable to violently attack immigrants, someone in the crowd shouted "Shoot them!" The crowd & Trump erupt in laughter & cheers. Trump says, "Only in the panhandle can you get away with that statement."pic.twitter.com/SgQd2OH9ti jordan (@JordanUhl) May 9, 2019 Advertisement Advertisement While not an endorsement of extrajudicial killings, Trumps tolerance for a joke about murdering asylum-seekers and failure to condemn the thought of violence still galled many people. The comment also came after the recent arrest of the leader of a right-wing militia group that had been detainingor, as the American Civil Liberties Union called it, kidnappinggroups of migrant families, allegedly at gunpoint and while passing itself off as law enforcement, to hold them for Immigration and Customs Enforcement. The group, the United Constitutional Patriots, is led by Larry Mitchell Hopkins, who was arrested on charges of possessing a firearm and ammunition as a felon. According to an FBI document cited in his arrest warrant, Hopkins had once allegedly said his group was training to assassinate President Barack Obama, Hillary Clinton, and George Soros. According to a police report obtained by The Young Turks, another member of the group allegedly had asked why they werent just killing the migrants. Why are we just apprehending them and not lining them up and shooting them? he allegedly asked another member during a patrol in April. We have to go back to Hitler days and put them all in a gas chamber. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its not the first time Trump has seemed to wink at the idea of violence from his supporters. There was, famously, his comment about Second Amendment people handling the prospect of a Hillary Clinton presidency. After a protester was removed from one of his rallies in Las Vegas, Trump said, Id like to punch him in the face. In another incident, after a protester was removed from a Birmingham, Alabama, rally, Trump suggested, Maybe he should have been roughed up. At another rally: Part of the problem is no one wants to hurt each other anymore. And another: Knock the crap out of him, would you? I promise you, I will pay your legal fees. At a rally in Montana, he praised Rep. Greg Gianforte, who once body-slammed a reporter, specifically for the assault: Any guy that can do a body slam, hes my kind ofhes my guy. President Trump will nominate acting Defense Secretary Patrick Shanahan to stay on the job permanently, the White House announced Thursday. Shanahan has led the Pentagon since Secretary Jim Mattis stepped down in December in protest of Trumps policies, in particular the presidents decision to pull troops out of Syria. Shanahan, during his brief tenure, has been proven more than willing to flatter Trumps most impulsive foreign policy instincts, including supporting the presidents deployment of troops on along the Mexican border and using Pentagon funds to pay for a border wall. We are not the Department of No, Shanahan told Pentagon officials in response to Trumps desire to establish a Space Force. Advertisement That sort of attitude is music to Trumps ears. Critics of the nomination, however, point out that the 56-year-old former Boeing executive does not have the necessary foreign policy experience to occupy the countrys most sensitive Cabinet position. Shanahan was a largely unknown deputy defense secretary who was brought in because of his private sector chops earned over three decades in the commercial aviation business at Boeing, where he helped rescue the stalled production of the 787 Dreamliner. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement [Shanahans] nomination had been pending during the ethics investigation and after a second deadly crash since October of a Boeing commercial jet that raised questions about the manufacturers close relationships with federal officials, the New York Times notes. The inspector generals report, released last month, cleared Mr. Shanahan of impropriety but also cited numerous meetings at the Pentagon during which Defense Department officials said he had promoted his experiences solving production problems on the Dreamliner as techniques that should be copied by the government. Although a few members of the Senate have rhetorically roughed up Shanahan, he has not generated broad opposition during his months of auditioning for the nomination, the Associated Press reports. Sen. Lindsey Graham, a South Carolina Republican, butted heads with Shanahan over the administrations Syria policy, but that confrontation quickly faded after the White House partially reversed course by agreeing to keep a few hundred troops in Syria rather than withdrawing all 2,000. Is Nancy Pelosi a sellout? This week, a chorus of progressives chastised the House speaker for a New York Times interview, published on Saturday, in which she counseled against impeachment proceedings and distanced herself from the exuberances of her partys left flank. The criticism, which Pelosi was forced to address at subsequent forumsone on Tuesday at Cornell University and a second on Wednesday with the Washington Postis overwrought. Pelosi is a disciplined leader who understands basic rules of political strategy. Shes applying them shrewdly to impeachment and 2020. Advertisement Some critics on the left bristle at Pelosis language in the interview about staying in the mainstream, along with her refusal to support big ideas like the Green New Deal. But at the level of policy, theres little daylight between the speaker and the left. The issues she talked about in the Times are the same ones she acts on in the House and brings up in press conferences: health care, bigger paychecks, infrastructure, and the environment. The list goes on: education, equal pay, gun safety, immigration reform, Social Security, violence against women. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Many progressives think the best way to attract and mobilize voters is to push big ideas like Medicare for All and the Green New Deal. Pelosi disagrees. Big ideas often alarm the other sides voters more than they inspire yours. Instead, she focuses on specific policies that affect peoples lives. She knows such policies are easier to explain and harder to caricature. And she emphasizes tangible benefits. The climate issue is a jobs issue, she says. Advertisement Advertisement The smarter play, in Pelosis view, is to defend policies that are well understood and supported. Let your enemy be the aggressor, and rally your base against his attack. Instead of pushing Medicare for All, the speaker targets President Donald Trumps assault on the Affordable Care Act. She specifies elements of the ACA that score well in polls: protections against pre-existing conditions, bans on lifetime limits and annual limits, the Medicare-Medicaid expansion, savings for seniors on their prescription drugs, [and] premium assistance that makes health coverage affordable. Pelosi understands that Trump is just a foil. The real goal is to build a relationship with voters. Contrary to perception, she hasnt ruled out impeachment. But she does think Democrats should talk less about Trump and more about connecting with the public. She sidesteps questions about the presidents tweets, insisting that Democrats are focusing on helping ordinary people. When the speaker is asked about Attorney General Bill Barrs testimony to Congress on the Russia investigation, she talks instead about the Justice Departments effort to gut the ACA. She believes that persuadable 2020 votersthose who arent sure which way theyll vote or whether theyll show up at allcare less about the fight between the parties than about which party is paying attention to their needs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Pelosis view, a politicians job is to produce results. In the House, that requires 218 votes. The peril of the momentan executive branch controlled by the most dangerous president in living memorymakes it even more crucial that Democrats maintain control of a chamber of Congress. The speaker calls herself a liberal from San Francisco, but she reminds colleagues that there arent enough deep blue districts to elect a majority. She focuses on issues that, while important to progressives, will also help Democrats in more vulnerable districts. On Tuesday, at the Cornell forum, Pelosi acknowledged that this coldblooded battle plan could cause unease for some people who may want to go way in one direction. But she warned that if Democrats were to lose the purple districts, the left would lose power altogether. Advertisement Advertisement Some critics see Pelosis centrist language as weak and uninspiring. But she cares about policies, not ideologies, so shes ruthless about embracing or shedding labels. She believes, for instance, that fairness is a more popular and less incendiary term than socialism. At a press conference last month, a reporter asked her about Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnells pledge to make 2020 a referendum on socialism. Pelosi replied that McConnell had engineered tax cuts for the rich, and she asked what he was doing to help ordinary people. At Cornell, Pelosi accused Republicans of using the word socialism to hide their attacks on popular programs. Theyre saying that Medicare and Medicaid and raising the minimum wage are acts of socialism, the speaker scoffed. No, theyre not. Theyre about fairness. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A party can win more votes, in Pelosis view, by claiming to represent the middle than by claiming to represent a wing or a movement. The Republicans have abandoned the center. The left can own it, she argued on Tuesday. Redefine what the center is, and dont let them define our agenda as something that is far left. On immigration, for example, Trump wants to frame Democrats as the party of open borders. Pelosi rejects that labelwe all agree we must secure our border, she saysand narrows the debate to whether Trumps wall is the best way to do it. Advertisement A party can win more votes, in Pelosis view, by claiming to represent the middle than by claiming to represent a wing or a movement. Unlike younger progressives, some of whom have grown up with the idea that all Republicans are callous or evil, Pelosi remembers when the parties worked together. She believes that some voters who lean Republican can be turned against the party of Trump. To that end, she exalts former Republican presidents, pitting their words or deeds against what she portrays as Trumps heresies. At the forums on Tuesday and Wednesday, Pelosi cited President Ronald Reagan 15 times, contrasting his embrace of immigration with Trumps xenophobia. Rather than condemn the whole GOP, she hopes to pry away some of its voters. Advertisement Advertisement Democrats often lose elections by talking robotically about policies while Republicans play to the gut. Pelosi tries to rectify that bad habit. Despite her jokes about San Francisco liberalism, shes a serious Catholic. She connects policies to values, and she targets religious communities, even those that lean Republican. Health care, she insists, is a values issue. So is protecting the environment, which she calls Gods creation. So is separating children from parents at the border, which Pelosi condemns as an assault on family values. She courts evangelicals, viewing them as a receptive audience to the Democratic case for humane treatment of refugees. As for impeachment, Pelosi thinks Democrats should take things one step at a time. She believes that Trump has committed impeachable offenses. But she recognizes that as things stand, Senate Republicans would acquit the president, and the GOP would use the impeachment fight to rally its voters. So instead of launching a formal impeachment process, she proposes to continue House committee proceedings that build on the Mueller report and other investigations. On Tuesday, Pelosi pointed out that President Richard Nixons resignation came after months of investigation, which turned the public against him and undercut his support in Congress. Start with subpoenas and hearings, she advised, and see where the facts take us. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Pelosis strategy is certainly open to dispute. She praises current Republican lawmakers, which complicates her pitch to vote Democratic. She also advises candidates not to talk about Trump, because telling voters that they made a mistake by electing Trump in 2016 might antagonize them. That advice might be prudent in deep red districts, but its hard to make an honest case against Trumps party without addressing Trumps misconduct. She says shes intent on locking up her House majority this November, a year early, by positioning her party so firmly in the center that strong Republican challengers will be scared off. That might be playing it too safe. And, as Slates Ben Mathis-Lilley has noted, she seems excessively worried that Trump wont accept the 2020 election results if Democrats dont win big. I suspect shes using that scenario as a scare tactic to motivate her troops. But on the whole, the speaker has it right. Public sentiment is everything, she likes to say, paraphrasing Abraham Lincoln. With it, you can accomplish almost anything. Without it, practically nothing. Pelosi schooled Trump in the fight over the government shutdown, and shes patiently waiting him out in the standoff over who will propose taxes to pay for an infrastructure plan. The liberals of San Francisco should be proud. We have to do this: Drivers for Uber, Lyft, and other ride-hailing companies went on strike on Wednesday to demand higher wages and benefits, ahead of Ubers initial public offering on Friday. The collective action was a first for many of these gig workersand it might be a sign of things to come. April Glaser reports from the protests in San Francisco. Common ground: A new survey suggests theres broad public support for the principles of Donald Trumps America First foreign policy, if not its implementation, with voters rejecting talking points like promoting democracy and maintaining the liberal international order. Joshua Keating discusses what that could mean for 2020 presidential candidates. Advertisement Zesty, shiny, shark toothed: A personal essay by author E. J. Koh recounts a day spent shopping with her mother in Seouland the intersecting, entwined layers of formality, pain, and love buried in the outing. Its my fault. Its all my doing. I made her suffer too much. I didnt know what to give her, so I gave her pain. Shes lovely, isnt she? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Detective Brand Mascot: We have kept pretty close tabs on the progress of Pokemon: Detective Pikachu, but Sam Adams review makes it clear the movie is honestly just OK. The plot exists, but thats probably not why youre going to see this Pokemon fest: You dont feel like youre being suffocated by corporate imperatives or goaded toward in-app purchases while youre watchingyou may not, in fact, feel much of anything beyond That looks neat. For fun: Fact-checking all the TV characters who write for the internet. Gotta get those clicks, Vicky CIA officer Valerie Plame became the subject of one of the most contentious partisan battles of the George W. Bush era in 2003 when her identity was revealed in a Washington Post column that cited two administration sources. It seemed that Plamewho worked undercoverhad been outed as retaliation against her husband, a diplomat whod written in the New York Times that the administration may have intentionally misused information hed obtained about Saddam Husseins alleged pursuit of nuclear weapons. Dick Cheneys chief of staff, Scooter Libby, was eventually convicted of perjury for statements he made to a special prosecutor investigating the case. (Trump recently pardoned him.) Advertisement Which is all to say that if you were a news-junkie partisan Democrat in the 2000sthe kind of person who, these days, shares a lot of #Resistance-oriented content on social mediayou were really ticked about what had happened to Plame, who went on to write a memoir, consult on a movie about her life (which starred Naomi Watts because she looks exactly like Naomi Watts), and copublish two spy thrillers. (From the book jacket copy for Burned: A Vanessa Pierson Novel: As Vanessas investigation leads her ever closer to the identity of the mole and the real terrorists plans, she finds herself drawn against all her better instincts into a perilous alliance with one of the worlds most dangerous criminalsa man who has become her darkest obsession and perhaps her savior. Spicy!) And now, liberals in Santa Fethe national capital of retirement-age baby boomers who still believe in the ideals and aesthetics of the 60s!will have the chance to support Plame once again, because she is running for Congress. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In-box: SANTA FE, NEW MEXICO Today, former CIA officer Valerie Plame announced she will be running for Congress in New Mexicos 3rd District. Jonathan Martin (@jmartNYT) May 9, 2019 Plame will be seeking to replace Ben Ray Lujan, a Democrat who is running for retiring Dem Tom Udalls Senate seat. New Mexicos 3rd also includes most of the northern half of the state and is a safely Democratic district, but Plame will have to compete in whats expected to be a large field of primary candidates, and her last two appearances in the national press were not auspicious. In August 2017, she announced a plan to remove Donald Trump from Twitter by crowdfunding a $1 billion majority stake in the company, an obviously insane project that has to date raised $89,719. In September of that year, she tweetedand briefly defended, before apologizinga humdinger of an op-ed piece that blamed Jews for manipulating the United States into every war in the Middle East and suggested that TV news channels should label Jewish individuals when they appear onscreen. (SUBTEXT: Labeling Jews is what Hitler did.) On the other hand, doing seemingly embarrassing things online involving Jews is how certain people became president of America. So well see! Drivers for Uber and Lyft got out of their cars on Wednesday. In major U.S. cities (and a few other places around the world), workers for the ride-hail services organized protests ahead of Ubers initial public offering on Friday. The company expects to be valued at more than $90 billion. It isnt profitable right now, hemorrhaging more than $1 billion a year as it subsidizes its service, which is why Uber has been squeezing driver earnings in recent months as its made its case to investors. Thats also why the gig workers who make up Ubers driving fleet chose this of all weeks to make a very loud point. Advertisement Their point was that Uber needs to pay up. At a protest in front of Ubers Market Street headquarters in San Francisco, a driver named Vinni told me that when he started driving for Uber in 2013, he was paid about $2.20 a mile. Now, he says, he gets about 92 cents a mile. At most jobs, he lamented, youd think that youd be making more after six years, not less. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The protest in San Francisco attracted about 300 people, mostly drivers, though a fair number of reporters were there as well. Many of the workers I spoke to told me they learned about the protest on Facebook, where they saw either an ad about the strike from a gig worker organizing group like Gig Workers Rising or a post from a friend. Only two of the more than a dozen drivers I spoke to told me that theyd participated in a driver action before. This seemed to be the first collective action for most of the protesters. We have to do this, an Uber driver named Marcos told me. If the pay doesnt improve, he said, hed need to find new work, even though he invested in a nicer car for his driving gig. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The strike was planned out of Los Angeles, where workers for Uber and Lyft started the group Rideshare Drivers United and called on drivers to picket at the Los Angeles International Airport. Within days, other cities where Uber and Lyft drivers have started organizing jumped on board. San Diego and San Francisco drivers agreed to shut their apps down for 12 hours. Drivers in Philadelphia, Boston, Atlanta, Chicago, and New York also joined in, all calling on riders to support them by boycotting Uber and Lyft in solidarity. Elsewhere around the world, drivers organized actions in Melbourne, London, and Sao Paulo. Altogether, Wednesdays demonstrations appear to have been the largest gig worker strike to date. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its true that riders likely had no problem hailing an Uber through their apps on Wednesday, wherever they were. But even if you could get an Uber in three minutes despite the strike, it would be hard to call this global labor action a failure. For one thing, the effort attracted a ton of media interest, and it also garnered the support of high-profile politicians on the left, including presidential candidates like Sens. Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren. Your Direct Action for today: Dont take an Uber or Lyft just for the day. (Just today! Cabs are fine! You can do it!), tweeted Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, urging her followers not to cross the digital picket line. Even technocratic whiz kid Mayor Pete Buttigieg tweeted that he was down with the drivers strike. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These callouts arent inconsequential, even if Uber didnt take much of a hit on fares (though we dont know if thats the case, and Uber isnt likely tell us). Consumers may love ride-hailing apps, but the more they become aware that drivers feel theyre getting a raw deal, the more theyll be receptive to politicians who want to do something about it. If the courts dont do it first, lawmakers absolutely have the power to turn Ubers big, thus-far-unprofitable experiment into something that better benefits its workforce. A bill is currently moving forward in California that would reclassify drivers as employees rather than independent contractors. And Sens. Sanders, Cory Booker, and Kirsten Gillibrand have all co-sponsored legislation that would improve gig workers collective bargaining power. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Wednesdays strike may have seemed like the culmination of years of driver unrest, but it could prove to be a beginning. Organizing independent contractors who dont have an easy way to meet each other isnt easy. Many drivers probably werent even aware of the protest, while others likely couldnt afford to stop working. In San Francisco, one Lyft driver honked in solidarity as she drove down Market Street past the protest. She told me her app was off, though she would definitely have to work later. I need the money, she said. Buzzing around the crowd, drivers with clipboards walked around taking down first-time protester-drivers email addresses and phone numbers to invite them to future meetings. Advertisement When Uber goes public on Friday, the pressure on the company to eventually, one day, earn a profit will only intensify. And the next chapter in company-worker relations will probably be even uglier. Right now, the company wants to pay drivers less while they demand more. It wants to phase out their service in favor of the self-driving cars its been trying to develop, while drivers want the company to respect their humanity. The company wants less red tape, while drivers want politicians to help them outand some politicians are now listening. When a troubled business model meets an angrier and angrier workforce, who wins? The Bride Test by Helen Hoang The Kiss Quotient #2 Contemporary Romance May 7, 2019 by Berkley Kindle * BN * Goodreads Khai Diep has no feelings. Well, he feels irritation when people move his things or contentment when ledgers balance down to the penny, but not big, important emotionslike grief. And love. He thinks hes defective. His family knows betterthat his autism means he just processes emotions differently. When he steadfastly avoids relationships, his mother takes matters into her own hands and returns to Vietnam to find him the perfect bride. As a mixed-race girl living in the slums of Ho Chi Minh City, Esme Tran has always felt out of place. When the opportunity arises to come to America and meet a potential husband, she cant turn it down, thinking this could be the break her family needs. Seducing Khai, however, doesnt go as planned. Esmes lessons in love seem to be workingbut only on herself. Shes hopelessly smitten with a man whos convinced he can never return her affection. With Esmes time in the United States dwindling, Khai is forced to understand hes been wrong all along. And theres more than one way to love. I absolutely loved The Kiss Quotient and couldnt wait to get my copy of this authors sophomore release, The Bride Test. You guys, I didnt even read the blurb until right before I decided to sit down and read. Lol. I didnt quite love this book as much as I did its predecessor, but I enjoyed it quite a bit. Readers are introduced to My (she changes her name to Esme when she comes to the US), a woman living in Vietnam in cramped conditions with her mother, grandmother, and young daughter. She works as a maid to make ends meet, but dreams of giving her daughter a better life. One evening while at work she meets a woman who offers her a way to change her life. By traveling to America and becoming a bride. If youve read The Kiss Quotient, then you should remember Khai Diep. Hes Michaels cousin, Quans brother, some sort of accountant and lives with Aspergers Syndrome. He lives an orderly life, on a set schedule, and has no desire to change anything up. Then his mother comes home from Vietnam and announces hell have a housemate for the summer and that shes already booked them a wedding hall in August. This was a very emotional love story. Between Khais struggle to understand both his own and Esmes feelings and Esmes desire to make everyone happy while at the same time trying to acclimate to living in a new country, which is essentially a whole new world, I got choked up more than once. I couldnt help it. I was totally absorbed in this story and glued to the page and then there was a scene in the book that set me aback and made me pause in a HOLY SHIT NO way. Im going to spoiler tag it so dont read it if you dont want to know. Esme and Khai go to a wedding and while wandering around by herself, Esme goes into a dressing room where the brides wedding dress is hanging on a hanger. She wants to try it on so bad that she begins to take off her clothes to try it on and all I could think was OMGOMGOMGOMGOMGOMG SHES TRYING ON THIS WOMANS WEDDING DRESS. NOOOOOOOO. Thankfully she is interrupted by Khai and then they are both interrupted by another couple coming in the room to have sex. She and Khai are forced into a closet to hide and of course shes naked, so it served its purpose in the story, but I cant tell you how worried I was that she was going to try on that dress and get caught. THE STRESS. Thankfully I kept reading, because this was such a solid, sweet romance. The Bride Test is at its heart a story about two people stepping outside of their comfort zones, in different ways and for different reasons, and finding love on the other side. The Esme from the beginning of the book who is always trying to please everyone finds her strength and understands her value by the end. The Khai who didnt think he could love discovers that he loves just as hard and just as deep as the rest of his family when he falls for Esme. Despite the angst of misunderstandings and insecurities, and all the times I got choked up and stressed out, I really enjoyed this couple and their journey to HEA. One of the best parts of this book is the main characters interaction with family and friends. Especially Quan. I am all heart eyes in love-lust with him and am absolutely on the edge of my seat in anticipation for his story. I think I read somewhere that his book is coming up next and this makes Angela a very happy girl. Final Grade- B- Favorite Quote: How did you change your life when you were trapped like this? Her history didnt define her. Her origins didnt define her. At least, they shouldnt. She could be more, if she had a chance. Like this: Like Loading... Slovakias top official representatives paid tribute to WWII victims, but separately. PM Peter Pellegrini (Smer) at the ceremony held in front of the Slavin memorial in Bratislava. (Source: TASR) Font size: A - | A + Comments disabled It is necessary to remember how the biggest tragedy we have ever witnessed was created, said President Andrej Kiska during a wreath-laying ceremony held at Slavin Memorial on the occasion of 74 years since the end of World War II in Europe. In the beginning there was a word, a word that spread hatred, attacked people of a different religion, nationality and skin colour, Kiska added, as quoted by the SITA newswire. Today, with extremism on the rise, we have to remember how this evil was created so as not to repeat the same mistakes. Those creating horror should be prevented from taking power The ceremony was also attended by PM Peter Pellegrini (Smer). Today is a time to distinguish between patriotism and nationalism, he said, as quoted by SITA. It is a duty of the government to bow before the graves of the people who fought for our freedom, he added. I want to call on all decent people to not only celebrate and remember our victory today, but also think about whether they are willing to do everything to prevent those who created these horrors in the past from taking power and deciding how Slovakia and Europe will look, Pellegrini added, as quoted by SITA. Both Pellegrini and Kiska later attended a ceremony in Zvolen. Read also: Read also: Danko will attend Russia's military parade Read more Danko flew to Moscow Speaker of Parliament Andrej Danko (the Slovak National Party) paid tribute to the WWII victims. Together with the members of his party and the Russian ambassador to Slovakia, they attended a ceremony at a memorial in Bratislavas Liscie Udolie, starting at 8:00. Shortly afterward, Danko flew to Moscow, where he attended the May 9 military parade in Moscows Red Square, SITA wrote. The investigation started after the victim wrote a letter to the congregation. Font size: A - | A + Comments disabled The Vatican has started an investigation into the case involving Slovak Greek Catholic Bishop Milan Chautur who is suspected of sexually harassing an underaged girl, the Kathpress newswire reported. The case will be considered by the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith. Speaking for media The Slovak Spectator informed about this case in September 2018. The victim, who is now an adult, has since decided to go public. She revealed her name as Martina OConnor in an interview with the Dennik N daily at the end of April 2019. OConnor said that about 30 years ago, when she was still a child, the bishop touched her in intimate places. However, Chautur's response to this accusation was that he just gave her an ordinary kiss. It is normal to kiss a child, people do it all the time and they do not have ulterior motives, he said, as quoted by the CTK newswire. Nuncio replied with the investigation OConnor sent a letter to the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith at the beginning of March. She informed the institution that she has decided to speak with the media about her experience, as the Postoj.sk website wrote. I received a response from the apostolic nuncio in the UK dated March 29, said OConnor, who is now living in the UK, as quoted by Postoj.sk. He informed me, that the congregation read my letter and they paid proper attention to it. The nuncio also informed her that the congregation has started an investigation. Experts analysed six key fields that face attacks most often. Font size: A - | A + Comments disabled Slovakia is vulnerable to hybrid threats, say the authors of the latest publication from the Globsec think-tank. We cannot pretend that Slovakia need not be concerned by hybrid threats when we see what is happening all over Europe, said Daniel Milo, Globsec analyst and the leader of the Strategic Communication programme, as quoted by the TASR newswire. The approval of the Concept for the Fight against Hybrid Wars by the Slovak government last year was an important step. However, there is still much work to do, he added. Slovakia is threatened The authors of the publication analysed six key fields: the targets of the most frequent hybrid threats and also the measures they use. They also identified weak points and offered 40 recommendations to increase the resistance of Slovakia against hybrid threats. Read also: Read also: Slovaks believe conspiracy theories more than their neighbours. Why? Read more As Milo explained, hybrid threats target these weak points and use them to favour the opponent. Slovakia has experiences with paramilitary and extremist groups that can pose a threat to the stability and security of society, the analyst said. They do so not only with their illegal activities but also by spreading propaganda and disinformation, Milo explained, as quoted by TASR. Disinformation, cybernetic attacks and the financial influence of foreign players could influence electoral processes in the country, he said, adding that strategic communication is the way to defend against this. The lack of experts Read also: Read also: Disinformation outlets attacked Caputova during the presidential campaign the most Read more Information and communication technologies are one of the main victims of hybrid attacks on the country, said Katarina Klingova, analyst for the Strategic Communication programme at GLOBSEC. Despite the fact that there are new measures in the field of cyber security in Slovakia, there are not enough qualified experts. Cyber security is closely connected to energy security, but the countermeasures hardly touch on the cyber component at all, she said, as quoted by TASR. Winning a race is always special for an owner. Although, when Linda Schwaid and her husband Era Ernie Williams watched their homebred pacer Lets Get Real win his career debut this past Saturday at Freehold Raceway, it provided a rush that lasted for days. Thats because Lets Get Real was no ordinary first-time starter. Lets Get Real is 10. Just to see him race was special, Schwaid said. To see him win? My heart was beating for days. I couldnt believe it. It was total shock. Weve had winning horses before, but not like this. Not after all the work we put in. Lets Get Real, a horse by Real Desire out of Sea Squall, was born in April of 2009. Schwaid and Williams liked the horse, but his development was delayed because of several physical issues at an early age. When Lets Get Real began to progress, Williams, who trained the horse, was slowed by medical issues with his heart and his spine. Wed train and then wed have to stop, Schwaid said. It was on and off, on and off. Everything just went slowly. Our health was more important than getting to the races. We do go out every day, even through the health issues, and take care of him. Hes one of our babies. Last fall, Schwaid and Williams, who are stabled at Winners International in central New Jersey, turned the horse over to trainer Mario Letizia with the hopes of continuing his development. Mario loved him the day he met him, Schwaid said. She didnt tell me how old he was, Letizia said, laughing. I remember I saw him like three years ago when Ernie was jogging him out there. I kind of thought he was a nice-looking horse the first time I saw him. When I started dealing with him, I thought he was a nice horse. Hes good to take care of, actually. Hes got some speed, he really does. Hes got a bit of ability. I took him to Freehold to school him before he qualified. Hes like a two-year-old (learning everything). Thats why it was amazing the way he won. He was like a professional. Lets Get Real pictured while out for a jog. Lets Get Real pictured while out for a jog. Lets Get Real, who qualified once in 1:59.2 at Freehold prior to his debut, won his first race in 1:58.2 with Eric Abbatiello in the sulky. In doing so, Lets Get Real became only the second North American-bred harness horse in the past 30 years to make his first lifetime start at age 10 and win a race. The other was pacing mare Jodesaidno, who was a 10-year-old rookie when she won at the Stark County Fair in Ohio in 2009. So rare is the occurrence that Freehold Raceway Director of Racing Karen Fagliarone called Letizia to make sure he had entered the correct horse. She said, hes 10 and never raced? I said, yeah, thats him, Letizia said. He always seemed good, Schwaid said. He always seemed like he wanted to do it, so we just kept trying and trying. We knew he had speed, it was just a matter of being consistent with him and getting our issues straightened out. It was just getting everything in the right place at the right time. It was really great (to see him win). Especially when you breed them and you see your baby come all the way to that. It really feels good. Linda Schwaid, Ernie Williams and Lets Get Real pose for the camera. Linda Schwaid, Ernie Williams and Lets Get Real pose for the camera. Schwaid and Williams first became interested in harness racing while living on Long Island, not far from Roosevelt Raceway. Williams, who was working for Grumman at the time, got to know a trainer and eventually was asked if he wanted to jog horses. We fell in love with the horses, said Schwaid, who was working as a laboratory supervisor at a hospital. We did it part time in the afternoons while we were working and decided that when we retired we would do it full time. It keeps you going. It keeps you getting up every day and keeps you going. Its rewarding to go out there and see them. It brings you out of a lot of misery. It has been especially helpful in providing a pleasant diversion for Williams, who is 76. It gives my husband hope, Schwaid said. Its inspirational for him. He comes every afternoon and helps feed and he will walk him around. Schwaid and Williams have one other homebred racing at this time, a six-year-old pacing mare named Arts And Flowers. Three days after Lets Get Reals victory, she won at Harrington Raceway, giving her 19 wins in 64 career races. Lets Get Real is not entered to race this week, but his connections are looking forward to his next start. And no matter what happens in the future, they will never forget his first. It just proves its never too late, Schwaid said. (USTA) In order to continue enjoying our site, we ask that you confirm your identity as a human. Thank you very much for your cooperation. As the land and air assault on the province of Idleb continues, discussions in the background are still trying to secure political advantages writes Alsouria Net. An understanding of the latest escalation in Idleb needs to be linked to the political developments which have occurred over the last two weeks. The miserable failure of the Astana meeting with regards to the constitutional committee. This failure has pushed the Russians to become dissatisfied with the Turks because they did not put enough pressure on the Syrian opposition. It appears that Moscow is keen to have a breakthrough in this matter with the imminent arrangement of the UN Special Envoy to Syria, Geir Pedersen, to the negotiating halls to begin a new round of talks in Geneva, after the Russians inability to hold on to this issue became clear. The Turkish-American joint statements that confirmed that the two sides are nearing an agreement on forming a safe zone in northeastern Syria after talks held by the American Special Envoy to Syria, James Jeffrey, with the Turks and Kurds. Any American-Turkish agreement in eastern Syria would negatively impact Russia, which is working to have a role in this area, and would also give the Turks a new geographical area in Syria, outside Russian influence, giving Ankara a bigger role in northern Syria as a whole and giving them a greater ability to balance between the American and Russian forces. The announcement by command of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) that it was going to carry out indirect negotiations with Turkey while beginning preparations to resolve all outstanding problems between the two sides. These negotiations, which will be held with American mediation, are a very important development which represent a political breakthrough. Although the contradictory Turkish conditions and Kurdish conditions will make it difficult for the two sides to reach a swift breakthrough, these negotiations have strategic dimensions on two levelslocal and regional. For the SDF, this means that they have various choices to arrange the cards and not a single choice, that is, the Syrian regime. For Turkey, these negotiations, if they succeed, mean changing the arrangements and alliances in northern Syria which will come at the expense of Moscow and Damascus. In these three developments, Turkey is playing the main role, which means that both Moscow and Washington are in great need of it to strengthen their presence and their cards in this broad region. Here we can understand the Russian military escalation on Idleb, and discuss two possibilities: First, the Russian military escalation is part of a process of blackmail and political pressure on Ankara to prevent them from carrying out any political or military understandings with Washington that do not take Russias interests into account. Supporting this are the statements of the Kremlin and the Russian Foreign Ministryand even Defense Ministrywhich do not indicate the presence of a military operation in Idleb, with the excpetion of old general statements about fighting terrorism. Putins statement may contain evidence, when he recently said that the time was not appropriate for a major military campaign in Idleb. Second, the Syrian regime, backed by Russia, carries out limited military operations in the Hama and Lattakia northern countrysides, and perhaps in the southern Idleb countryside, in order to keep rebel groups away from their current zones of contact or to force them to accept Russian-Turkish joint patrols as agreed at the recent Astana meeting. It isnt known to what extent it is possible for Russia to go militarily in this stage, especially with Turkish-American agreements. Any military pressure to change the military map in the Idleb area could push Turkey closer to the United States, which is not what Russia wants. This land military campaign, if it happens, could weaken Ankaras ability to pressure rebel groups or direct them. As a result, the Sochi agreement stands on the edge of the abyss, and this is something that the sponsors of this agreement do not accept. The possibilities in Idleb remain open, as long as the Turkish-American-Kurdish discussions also remain open to all possibilities. This article was translated and edited by The Syrian Observer. Responsibility for the information and views set out in this article lies entirely with the author. The Assad regime has mobilzed all of its air force to take part in the assault on Idleb, although it is being stretched to capacity writes Zaman Al Wasl. A military source said that on Friday, the Syrian Air Force had lost its first helicopters during the ongoing offensive on Idleb and Hama provinces. A Mi-17 helicopter of the 59th Brigade was hit by resistance fire last Friday while it dropped barrel bombs on villages in northern Hama, confirming that the helicopter landed west of Hama airbase and was taken out of active service until the damage could be assessed and the possibility of repair was estimated. On a related note, Zaman al-Wasl was informed by a special source that the regimes air force is exhausted, participating with its maximum effort with the Russian Air force, departing from Hemeimeem Air Base. It was revealed that the regimes participating aircrafts are distributed over several airbases: Seven (Su-24) departing from Tayfur (T4), the main airbase of the 19th squadron, three of them were provided with their crews from the al-Seen Airbase of the 696th squadron a month before the operation. He explained that there are four Sukhoi Su-22M4 departing from their base in Tayfur of the 827th squadron, pointing out that four Su-22s were from Shayrat Airbase, two Su-33M4s from the formation of the 675th squadron and two Su-22M3s from al-Dumayr Airbase of the 54th squadron. The source added that there is a MiG23M aircraft launching from Shayrat airbase of the 677th squadron. He confirmed that 10 aircrafts belonging to the aviation academy, five of them departing from Shayrat and five from al-Nayrab airbase, after an Iranian militia allowed the regime to work from there at the start of air operations against Idleb. The same source revealed that attack helicopters were assembled west of Hama military airbase believed to be in the area of Jubb Ramlah, a paved area ready for helicopters to land and take off from. The helicopters were assembled by the 59th Brigade stationed in Aqraba in eastern Ghouta: three Mi-17 helicopters from the 63rd Brigade stationed at Hama airbase, a helicopter of the same type from the 618th Navy squadron, in addition to two helicopters, Mi-14 and Kamov-28. They were supported by three Mi-24 helicopters from the 64th Brigade, based at the Beli airbase. The source explained that all these helicopters operate from the base assigned to them; the workers, pilots and technicians who reside in the Hama military airbase and technical teams for the preparation and equipping of helicopters are transported to Hama airport in the early morning, with cars dedicated for them and vehicles dedicated to the transfer of ammunition and explosive barrels. The source attributed the helicopters being assembled away from the Hama military airbase to several reasons, the most important of which is that Hama airbase is busy with Russian and Iranian aircrafts, pointing out that the airport has become a headquarter for all air and land operations and a landing site for military aircrafts transporting ammunition to the airport. The other reason, according to the source, is the difficulty of hiding them or protecting them from retaliatory strikes, and the ease of coordination of work between the helicopters and the other types of aircraft participating in the bombing. Abou al-Duhur airbase, after its restoration, was considered as a reserve station for all types of aircraft and helicopters, in the case of damage or technical failures forcing the plane to land at the nearest airport. The forces of the regime he says did not use the airport, despite its availability, because of its proximity to the area of military operations. However, troops of the 4th Division are stationed at the airbase, in addition to a technical team that can receive emergency landing planes. This article was edited by The Syrian Observer. Responsibility for the information and views set out in this article lies entirely with the author. Residents of Deir ez-Zor protested the presence of Syrian Democratic Forces in the area and the violations committed by their members writes Justice for Life. Last April, protests were sparked in many villages and towns located in Syria Democratic Forces (SDF) held areas, north of the Euphrates River, in Deir ez-Zor province. The areas of Shuhail, Gharaneej, Abou Hamam, al-Tayyana in the eastern countryside along with al-Kasra, Mhaimeeda, Sfeera, Hammar al-Ali, and al-Zghair in the western countryside witnessed protests which gradually increased in numbers. Protestors burnt tires and carried banners. The residents of Mhaimeeda drove the public security out of the village on Apr. 28, 2019. The protestors had demands of the civil councils and SDF and confirmed that the protests will continue and be increased if there is no response. In addition to the protests, villages sent messages through community leaders to SDF, which included specific demands. The Public Security forces arrested dozens of protestors, beating them before they were released, similar to what happened in al-Tayyana village. Protestors demanded the following: Evicting the non-Syrian members from the area. Involving residents effectively in the management of their affairs. Releasing detainees who are not indicted for having relations with the Islamic State, or any other charge. Decreasing the fuel prices and stop smuggling fuel. Enhancing water and electricity services, especially in the eastern countryside areas. Pursuing all corrupted members and holding them accountable. Civil Society as a Party That Can Take an Action Local activists established many organizations and civil initiatives in many sectors such as relief, education, services, and mine action awareness, which received limited funds from international donors. These organizations formed a space of interaction between the residents, along with their problems, and what is provided by international organizations and civil councils. Yet, these organizations faced obstacles made by the civil councils such as rejected permits for some organizations, delayed ones for others and limiting work in specific areas, where in one case at least, the civil councils did not respond to initiatives working in human rights. This article was edited by The Syrian Observer. Responsibility for the information and views set out in this article lies entirely with the author. Terrorists in Idleb fired a number of rockets at the Hemeimeem Airbase, but all were intercepted before they hit their targets reports SANA. On Tuesday, the Russian Coordination Center announced that it had foiled a missile attack carried out by terrorist groups positioned in the de-escalation zone of Idleb, on Hemeimeem Airbase in the Lattakia countryside. The center said in a statement that the Air Defense system has downed all 27 missiles launched by terrorists against Hemeimeem Airbase, affirming that none of the terrorists rockets reached their targets. It added that the sites of missile launch-pads in Jabal al-Zawya of Idleb have been monitored and that they were all destroyed. This article was edited by The Syrian Observer. Responsibility for the information and views set out in this article lies entirely with the author. During a meeting with Iranian Foreign Minister, Mohammad Javad Zarif, Sergey Lavrov reiterated that the terrorists in Idleb must be eliminated reports SANA. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov reiterated the need for eradicating the hotbed of terrorism in Idleb province. Lavrovs remarks came during a press conference with his Iranian counterpart Mohammad Javad Zarif on Wednesday in Moscow. Lavrov said that the terrorist organisation Jabhat al-Nusra controls most of Idlebs area and continues to target civilians, positions of the Syrian Arab Army and the Hemeimeem Airbase, which cannot be allowed. Lavrov stressed that the situation in the al-Jazira region is concerning and Washingtons behaviors in Syria violate UN Security Council resolutions, which stress an abidance to Syrias unity and territorial integrity. For his part, Zarif affirmed the necessity of continuing efforts to find a political solution to crisis in Syria, pointing out the importance of the Astana formula to make progress in this regard. This article was edited by The Syrian Observer. Responsibility for the information and views set out in this article lies entirely with the author. Tammy notes, in her latest Washington Times column, How the left targets American history, statues and heroes: In the recent past, attempts to erase American history manifested as protests to remove and vandalizing statues commemorating Confederate generals and Southern Civil War dead. But our past is a fact, one that reminds us how far we have come. We absolutely should have conversations about our history, as being an American is like practicing medicine you must work at it every day. But becoming a better people and nation requires knowing and understanding your past. Toppling statues and erasing people from paintings and pictures accomplishes one thing making it impossible to understand who we are.. And erasing beloved patriotic sayings. Via Fox News. A Pennsylvania elementary school principal will no longer say God Bless America following the Pledge of Allegiance after the district received a legal complaint on behalf of a parent who claimed that doing so broke the law. Peter Brigg, the principal of Sabold Elementary School in Springfield, would say the phrase after reciting the pledge over the loudspeaker. At least one parent filed a complaint to the Freedom From Religion Foundation. An attorney from the group sent a letter to the district complaining that publicly announcing the expression violated the U.S. Constitutions prohibition of government sponsoring religious messages. God Bless America is a prayer A Prayer hosted by a publicly supported school does not pass constitutional muster, the foundation said. Washington could have a new Attorney General in 2020, and one potential candidate visited Longview on Tuesday to share his perspective on the job. For six years, Noah Purcell, 39, has been solicitor general for State Attorney General Bob Ferguson. Purcell on April 4 launched an exploratory committee to consider running to replace Ferguson if the incumbent does not run for re-election. While Ferguson has not said so definitively, he has indicated he may run for governor if incumbent Gov. Jay Inslee doesnt seek a third term. Inslee is running as a Democratic contender for President of the United States. If he makes a decision not to run for a third term, then obviously Id make a decision whether to run for governor or a third term myself, Ferguson told Crosscut in April. Purcell said he couldnt speak for Ferguson, but added that his boss has been very, very supportive of his decision to explore a run. Purcells goals if elected include continuing the offices work on consumer protection, civil rights, pollution and environmental work, and the opioid crisis, which he said affects other issues such as homelessness. [Opioid cases] are huge, the defendants are giant and they have a million lawyers, but thats a top priority for me to keep working on, Purcell said. Purcell is a Seattle native and graduate of the University of Washington and Harvard Law School, where he was an editor of the Harvard Law Review. He clerked for U.S. Supreme Court Justice David Souter. Although he did not grow up here, he has roots in Longview through the large Purcell family, which has long been active in the Democratic party. He is a nephew of Teresa Purcell of Longview, who ran for the Legislature in 2016. Purcell said he loves his job, knows the office and feels ready to fill his boss shoes: Its the office I know, and its the office I feel passionate about. He made international headlines in 2017 when he led the states successful legal challenge to an executive order by President Donald Trump restricting travel to the United States from seven Muslim-majority nations. (Last year, a third version of the ban was upheld by the U.S. Supreme Court in a 5-4 decision.) It was an incredible whirlwind, Purcell said of the legal fight against the first ban. That order was signed on a Friday and we filed a lawsuit on Monday, which is much, much, much faster than you ever normally put together a lawsuit of any size. ... I didnt sleep much, at all, for two weeks. The case was important on principle, Purcell said, because it showed we would stand up for the rule of law, and for people who were targeted unconstitutionally in Washington, no matter who they were. Purcell said hes heard the criticisms that the legal challenge was politically motivated. The country is politically polarized, Purcell acknowledged, but 99 percent of the Attorney Generals work has virtually nothing to do with a political party. I do think its important for the Attorney Generals office not to be partisan, Purcell said. And Im very confident that we are following the law and not just doing things for political reasons. Part of the reason we keep winning all of these cases is because were right on the law. ... We havent lost one yet against the Trump administration. His office has sued the Obama administration too, Purcell pointed out, and has traditionally seen low turnover when new attorneys general take over, compared to other states. Love 1 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 3 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. OLYMPIA Washington law will ban ghost guns made with 3D printers, remove the rights of a person who is found incompetent to stand trial to have a firearm and tighten a requirement for a concealed pistol license. Firearms can be removed from the homes of teens who are the subject of an extreme risk protection order because they might hurt themselves or others. Gov. Jay Inslee signed a series of bills Tuesday tightening Washington gun laws along with dozens of others, including a revision to statutes on hate crimes, and requirements for better disclosure of contributions moved between political committees. The gun control laws would be a model for the rest of the United States, said Inslee, who is running for president. Im proud that Washington voters and legislators have done much to promote common-sense gun safety in the last several years, Inslee said when signing the bill banning firearms made with plastic 3D printers. Weve come a long way from 1994, if I may say so, on a personal note. In 1994, during his first term in Congress, then-Rep. Inslee voted for a ban on the manufacture and import of military-style semi-automatic rifles, was targeted by the National Rifle Association and lost his re-election campaign to Republican Doc Hastings as part of a GOP wave that captured seven of the states nine House seats. That ban expired in 2004 and was not renewed by Congress. Washington voters put restrictions on the sale of semi-automatic rifles through an initiative last year, requiring the buyer to be at least 21 and requiring the same level of background check needed for a handgun. Gun-rights advocates asked the Legislature to repeal the initiative, but lawmakers never seriously considered it. Instead, they passed a ban on undetectable and untraceable firearms, like those made from plastic with a 3D printer. A firearm must have a minimum amount of steel that would allow it to register on an X-ray machine, like the kind used for airport security. Starting July 1, it will be a felony to manufacture, own, buy or sell such a weapon, with an additional felony charge possible for selling one to a person who is ineligible to possess a firearm. The Legislature also made it easier to remove firearms from people who may be a risk to themselves or others. A person under 18 who is judged by a court to be in danger of committing a violent act could be the subject of an extreme risk protection order, which could require the immediate, temporary removal of firearms belonging to the person named in the order. Anyone else in the home would be required to put their firearms in secure storage and face criminal prosecution if the subject of the protection order gains access to those weapons. A person who is detained in a mental health facility for a three-day evaluation and treatment for possible risk of harming themselves or others would lose the right to possess a firearm for six months. After that period, the right to possess firearms would be automatically restored if there are no further restrictions required by other laws. A person found not guilty by reason of insanity for a crime that would result in making them ineligible to possess a firearm would have to surrender all firearms. Protection orders and restraining orders that require the subject to surrender firearms can also require the surrender of a concealed pistol license. Such an order must also be served by a law enforcement officer, and the weapons and license placed in the custody of that officers agency. A court can issue a search warrant if an officer believes the person named in the protection order hasnt surrendered all weapons. Most of those new laws passed the Legislature with strong Democratic support but Republican opposition. One gun-related bill signed Tuesday, however, passed both chambers unanimously. It requires a background check for an original concealed pistol license to include the submission of the applicants fingerprints for a check by the FBI. The Washington State Patrol had requested the change to comply with federal requirements. In other changes signed into law, malicious harassment will be redefined as a hate crime if its a result of bias against a race, religion, gender identity or other minority, attempting to remove religious clothing from a person or placing a noose on the property of a person who is a member of a racial or ethnic minority. The maximum punitive damages in a civil action for a hate crime increases from $10,000 to $100,000. Love 1 Funny 1 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Gov. Jay Inslee signed five environment protection bills in Seattle on Tuesday. None of them, however, included a statewide ban on retailers dispensing common plastic shopping bags. Senate Bill 5323 made it out of the Democrat-controlled Senate and appeared poised to earn approval in the Democrat-controlled House before shipment to Inslee, a Democrat, who supported the legislation. But it died in the House in the closing hours of the legislative session, which concluded April 28. The Senate bills sponsor blamed the pulp and paper industry for blocking the bill and vowed to revive the proposal next year. A pulp and paper industry spokesman acknowledged its opposition but said it would support a better plastic bag-ban bill. The proposal, similar to another introduced in 2013, would have banned single-use plastic carryout bags and required retailers to charge for recycled or reusable bags. Bags available inside stores for things such as fruits and vegetables, bulk foods and loose parts like hardware pieces were exempt. Stores would have had until 2020 to use up existing stocks. That bag charge would have been imposed to encourage the use of reusable bags and thats what appears to have been the key point of contention. I was very disappointed, Sen. Mona Das, D-Kent, told The Columbian on Tuesday, about the bills failure. Im still really passionate about this bill and protecting the environment. Das, a freshman senator who is a member of the Senate Environment, Energy & Technology Committee, said she thought approval of a statewide plastic bag ban would have been most challenging in the Senate. I didnt realize the House would be an issue, she said. Das noted the Senate approved the bill with the votes of four Republicans, including Sen. Ann Rivers, R-La Center. The American Forest & Paper Association opposed the Senate bill throughout its path through the Legislature, primarily because of the fee that would have been charged to consumers who asked for a paper bag. We do not think consumers should have to pay a penalty to use our product, said Terry Webber, the associations executive director for packaging. Webber, noting the environmental superiority of paper over plastic, said the association would support a better bill, one that did not include a per-bag surcharge. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 3 WASHINGTON At a time when America is facing a potential military confrontation with Iran, an escalating trade war with China and a showdown with North Korea, youd think President Trump would want a permanent secretary of defense to oversee Pentagon plans. But Patrick Shanahan is still cooling his heels as acting secretary, awaiting a formal nomination that was expected nearly two weeks ago, after Shanahan was cleared in a conflict-of-interest probe. The nomination sits and waits, and some prominent Trump supporters who back Shanahan are beginning to voice concerns. Newt Gingrich, former House speaker and a Trump confidant, told me Tuesday he thinks Shanahan would be a very good defense secretary and added: I hope the president will nominate Shanahan as quickly as possible. It will strengthen Shanahans hand in reforming the Pentagon bureaucracy. Jack Keane, a Trump adviser and retired Army general who could probably have had the Pentagon job himself if hed wanted it, says hes also mystified by the delay. Asked if Shanahan should be nominated, Keane said, I definitely think so, because it would boost his standing in dealing with allies and potential adversaries. Keane explained: In my discussions with [Shanahan], Im convinced he understands the issues and is seized with the urgency to reform the department. Gingrich offered a similar assessment of Shanahan as a potential change agent: Shanahan has a clear vision of the technology investments needed to maintain superiority over the Chinese military and the management experience with big systems to turn that vision into reality. So why, at a time when Shanahan is gaining GOP support after a somewhat tepid initial reaction, is the president waiting? As with so many aspects of Trumps behavior, its a mystery. Maybe he thinks the optics arent right, given that Shanahan was a former top executive at Boeing, a company thats now mired in controversy over the 737 Max. Perhaps he wants a bigger name that will add luster to his administration. Or maybe, as Trump has shown in his treatment of former Secretary of State Rex Tillerson, former Secretary of Homeland Security Kirstjen Nielsen and former Secretary of Defense Jim Mattis, the president just likes to keep people dangling in limbo, to the point of personal humiliation. Whatever the reason, the White Houses reluctance to designate a permanent successor to Mattis is threatening to become a Trump moment, adding to speculation about uncertain presidential decision-making at a time when he has big national-security problems accumulating in a wobbly stack that includes Iran, China and North Korea not to mention Russia, Venezuela, Turkey and Syria. Shanahans priorities, should he be nominated and confirmed, seem clear. The former Boeing production engineer wants to consolidate and modernize a Pentagon bureaucracy thats notoriously stove-piped and resistant to change. In setting his tentative agenda, he has worked closely with Gen. Joseph Dunford, the widely respected chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. The approach Dunford and Shanahan have discussed would seek to better coordinate the geographical nodes, known as combatant commands, that now dominate resources and planning. Rather than segmenting the world through these regional commands, the aim would be to focus more top-level attention on China and Russia, the global strategic priorities. Shanahan wants senior leaders to devote at least 10% of their time collectively to China, and 10% to Russia. Dunford described the global planning effort in an interview April 25. Without explicitly endorsing Shanahan, he said that his management experience would be a plus in reforming past practices at the Pentagon. The only way you can drive a cultural change in the Pentagon is if the secretary of defense makes it a priority. Shanahan came in without any baggage about how we used to do things. ... As a business executive, hes interested in outcomes. Shanahan faced considerable skepticism when he was named acting secretary last December. Critics worried that he lacked Mattis military experience and personal stature and a willingness to push back against Trump, when necessary. Those questions persist, but Shanahan has won some converts among those, like Gingrich and Keane, who favor modernizing the Pentagons hide-bound systems and its preservation of legacy weapons. Shanahans boosters argue that he is a tough manager whos willing to knock heads and who understands the technologies from space systems to artificial intelligence to cloud computing that will be central to any Pentagon transformation. But after more than four months with a vacancy at the top of the Pentagon, the biggest argument in Shanahans favor is simply that America needs a defense secretary now. David Ignatius is a syndicated columnist whose work appears each week in the Washington Post. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 The best bang for your buck! This option enables you to purchase online 24/7 access and receive the Sunday, Tuesday & Thursday print edition at no additional cost * Print edition only available in our carrier delivery area. Allow up to 72 hours for delivery of your print edition to begin. Print edition not available for Day Pass option. By Trend Solidarity of Azerbaijan with other participants of the OPEC+ deal contributes to its sustainability and opens up prospects for attracting new participants, Vasily Tanurkov, director of the Corporate Ratings Group at Russias Analytical Credit Rating Agency (ACRA), told Trend. "It is not only Azerbaijans contribution to the overall production cuts that is important, but also the country's solidarity with other OPEC+ members, which contributes to the sustainability of the deal and opens up prospects for attracting new participants," Tanurkov said. As to the possibility of extending the deal for cutting oil production, the expert noted that currently the most probable and viable solution is to extend the deal while softening its terms by increasing production quotas, in order to compensate for the drop in exports from Iran and Venezuela. An agreement was reached to reduce daily oil production by 1.2 million barrels at the 5th OPEC and non-OPEC Ministerial Meeting in Vienna, Austria, on December 7, 2018. As part of the agreement, Azerbaijan has reduced daily production by 20,000 barrels since January 1, 2019. CAIRO The state of Illinois is seeking applications from minority-owned businesses located in low- and moderate-income areas in need of grant funding to bring their goals to reality. The Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity will award a total of $10 million in competitive grant funding to qualified applicants to assist them in carrying out business plans that show potential to grow jobs, build capacity, increase revenues and/or expand regionally. Qualified applicants are those where at least 51 percent of the firm is directly and unconditionally owned by one or more members of a minority group. People who qualify include African Americans, Latinos, Asians, women and veterans; anyone fitting that description who operates a business in a low- to moderate- income area (as defined by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development) can apply, according to DCEO spokeswoman Charity Greene. An additional $5 million in funding is available for business incubators that serve or aim to serve minority-owned businesses through the development of new initiatives. Gov. J.B. Pritzkers administration announced the funding opportunity this week. DCEOs Office of Minority Economic Empowerment, which was first funded by the Illinois Legislature two years ago, is overseeing the process. The office administers the Advancing the Development of Minority Entrepreneurship program, which identifies high-potential minority entrepreneurs and provides them support to grow their businesses, Greene said. The funding for the business development grants were included in the fiscal year 2019 capital budget. This is the first year the program has been funded, according to DCEO. Theres a relatively quick turnaround June 30 for businesses to get their applications to the state. Officials from DCEOs Office of Minority Economic Empowerment will be visiting about a dozen communities in the coming days to generate awareness and answer questions prospective applicants might have about the process and whats required of them to apply. In the broader Southern Illinois region, interested applicants have two opportunities to attend workshops next week in the following locations: 1 p.m. Tuesday, May 14 East St. Louis Higher Education Campus 601 James R. Thompson Blvd., Building B, room 2073 9:30 a.m. Wednesday, May 15 First Missionary Baptist Church 727 37th St. In a statement, Pritzker said he is committed to expanding opportunities for minority-owned businesses, especially as an important way to help underserved communities grow. "This funding will help businesses overcome one of their key obstacles access to capital and will help businesses across the state grow, the governor added. Minority-owned businesses can receive up to a maximum of $500,000 each, and incubators are eligible for up to $250,000 apiece. The Alexander/Pulaski counties chapter of the NAACP is helping the state coordinate the event next week in Cairo, according to Tyrone Coleman, chapter president and former mayor. Coleman said that he hopes residents in Cairo and throughout the southernmost region of Illinois attend the workshop to learn more about this opportunity. Expanding the number of small businesses serving Cairo is critical to its future, Coleman said. There is a need for someone to open a grocery store and gas station in town, in addition to other innovative businesses to serve residents and employ the regions young people, he noted. Though theres no guarantee that an applicant from Southern Illinois will be selected, Coleman said its promising that the state selected Cairo as one of its locations for the statewide informational sessions. The governor is, so far, staying true to his promise that he is going to impact southernmost Illinois, and this is one of the ways hes doing it, Coleman said. By reaching out to the minority community, those persons who want to go into business, theres an avenue thats open that hasn't been open before. Coleman said this opportunity is critical because African Americans often face roadblocks to traditional bank financing to start or expand their businesses, especially if they operate in an area that struggles economically. This funding could be what helps get a prospective business owner over that hurdle so that they can later tap into other financing options once on more solid footing. Coleman said that Cairos economic growth is dependent on small business owners leading the way. A lot of times its your small businesses that keeps things relevant to the arrival of a larger business, he said. Love 1 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 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. In the early 1900s, most of the black children in South Carolina only attended school up until the fourth grade for a few months during the year. As time progressed, more and more emphasis was placed on increasing the grade levels. And by the early 1950s, both the black and white schools consisted of grades one through 12. From 1869 until the early 1900s, black educators were trained at Claflin University, Allen University, Benedict College and the South Carolina Agricultural and Mechanical Institute in Orangeburg. These teachers were sent out to all of the counties in the state to extend educational opportunities in the black community. The blacks who could afford to send their children out of the state gave their children the opportunity to obtain a quality education that would lead them to a better financial life. Other black families did their best to have some kind of structured education for their children. And there were those who had to work agricultural jobs to provide for their living conditions. In 1907, a wealthy Philadelphia Quaker named Anna T. Jeanes donated $1 million to set up the Negro Rural School Fund to provide educational opportunities for the poor black children in the rural South. The focus of this program was to train the blacks in industrial education at first. These teachers were called Jeanes Teachers. Their duties were to train the black teachers in rural schools. They promoted and encouraged self-sufficiency by teaching students and families to sew, bake, do carpentry and learn better health care for their families. These teachers and supervisors were mostly black females. On May 14, 1935, The Times and Democrat reported: Gives Report for First Year Jeanes Teacher Tells of New Activities in this County The negro Jeanes teacher of Orangeburg County has just closed the first years work. A Jeanes teacher is a teacher whose salary is paid 60 percent by the Jeanes Fund and 40 percent by the County Board of Education for the purpose of securing better results from the money invested in Negro schools in the county. "The teacher who taught during the school year 1934-35 passed through varied experiences. Some of these experiences may be recalled with joy, others with grief. "In Orangeburg County the Jeanes work was a new field for both the Jeanes worker and the Negro teachers this year. A program of work for the Jeanes teacher was approved by the County Board of Education who instructed the Jeanes worker to install and secure, as far as possible, a unified program of teaching in the Negro schools of this county. "Some of the goals set forth were repairing of condemned school, the stressing of reading in all grades and the necessity of promoting children from the lower grades and the keeping of accurate school records. Much good was accomplished along these lines. "Under the leadership of the County Superintendent of Education, a Negro carpenter was secured who repaired 15 condemned school buildings, painted and repaired 38 blackboards, installed 13 new blackboards, constructed 21 sanitary toilets and added improvement and beautification to school buildings and grounds. "The Jeanes worker takes this opportunity to express appreciation to the Jeanes Fund, the County Board of Education, the County Superintendent of Education, the Superintendent of schools, trustees, teachers, patrons and friends for the splendid cooperation given in the field of work during the past scholastic year. As time progressed, the Jeanes Program shifted from a community focus to an educational focus. They started sponsoring reading workshops, in-service programs for teachers, art exhibits and the teaching of how to cooperate with each other. The demise of the Jeanes Teachers came about in the 1960s as the system of school segregation ended across America. For more than 60 years, the Jeanes Teachers in South Carolina filled the gap in rural education for black South Carolina by providing additional educational opportunities for the people they served. Richard Reid is president of the Orangeburg Historical and Genealogical Society. His mission is researching Orangeburg history, with a particular emphasis on the role of African-Americans in that history. Love 4 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 A lawsuit filed against Bamberg County Council claims its contract with its administrator is illegal. The group suing council also claims members were prevented from exercising their constitutional right to bring their grievances before council. A four-page complaint, filed by resident Susan Ellis and the Concerned Citizens of Bamberg County, claims Bamberg County Council illegally entered into a contract with Anderson-based Preston Consulting LLC on Nov. 5, 2018. The lawsuit asks the court to rule the contract between the county and Preston Consulting to be null and void. Preston Consulting is owned and operated by Joey Preston, the county's administrator. Preston directed all questions to county attorney Richard Ness. Ness did not return both email and phone messages by the close of business Wednesday. The lawsuit alleges, that rather than following the statute of employing a county administrator, that council entered into a contract with an LLC to act as county administrator. According to the terms of the contract, the county is paying Preston Consulting, LLC $130,711.10 per year. The lawsuit alleges council has violated the South Carolina Home Rule Act and specifically the law pertaining to the council-administrator form of county government. The lawsuit cites state law, which says council shall employ an administrator who shall be the administrative head of the county government and shall be responsible for the administration of all the departments of the county government which the council has authority to control." The complaint notes that as a corporation, Preston Consulting, LLC is a separate and distinct entity over which Bamberg County Council has limited, at best, control which is limited to the terms of the contract. The lawsuit goes on to state that Preston Consulting is an independent contractor, not a county employee. "As an independent contractor, Preston Consulting, LLC dictates the methods, hours and manner in which it fulfills its duties," the complaint states. "An employee by contrast would have to perform his/her work in the manner dictated by defendant and at such times as dictated by the defendant." The complaint says the contract expands the termination of the contract beyond state law. The lawsuit also claims Bamberg County Council has stopped the Concerned Citizens from exercising their constitutional right to freely assemble by directing the Bamberg County sheriff to shut the doors of the council meetings excluding plaintiffs from being able to address their grievances to their government. Members of the Concerned Citizens presented a petition to the clerk of council expressing their concerns over Prestons contract. While they say their concerns were presented within the time frame set by the county ordinances, the matter was not added to council's agenda. Contact the writer: gzaleski@timesanddemocrat.com or 803-533-5551. Check out Zaleski on Twitter at @ZaleskiTD. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 1 Angry 0 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. Rice, peanut butter, cereal, pasta and canned fruits and vegetables will be among the items postal carriers will be collecting this weekend during the nation's largest one-day food drive. Local letter carriers will join others in thousands of cities and towns nationwide to collect food this Saturday, May 11, as part of the National Association of Letter Carriers' 27th annual "Stamp Out Hunger" food drive. Carriers will collect nonperishable food donations left beside or in mailboxes and post offices. The food will be delivered to local community food banks, pantries and shelters. Since the drive began, total donations have surpassed 1.6 billion pounds of food. The U.S. Postal Service reports that more than 43 million, or 1 in 7 Americans, is food insecure, meaning they are living in risk of hunger and not knowing where the next meal is coming from. Orangeburg donations will be given to Cooperative Church Ministries of Orangeburg. Longtime CCMO volunteer Ray Sabalis was among those at the Orangeburg post office Tuesday morning to help kick off this years volunteer effort Sabalis said the food is appreciated and needed. There is a year-round need for food. This is a huge project for the postal workers. We appreciate it because it comes at a time of year when food donations are less likely from the community," Sabalis said. She added, "This project really provides a wonderful service for our community with the food that comes in." CCMO, located at 889 Russell St., is open from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Norman Brown, acting coordinator of the local "Stamp Out Hunger" drive, said the Orangeburg post office gets support from area branches including Cope, Bamberg, North, Bowman, Denmark, Neeses, Norway, Rowesville, Santee, St. Matthews, Vance, Springfield and Branchville. Brown, a city carrier, said, "We know its a need, and its also an opportunity for us to give back to the community, give back to the customers and to the people as a whole. Its not just local, its national. Everyone needs that helping hand. Canned meals such as soups, chili and pasta; 100% juice; peanut butter; macaroni and cheese; canned protein such as tuna, chicken and turkey; and canned or dried beans are among the desired food items to donate. Items that are not accepted are rusty, outdated and unlabeled cans; glass containers; homemade items; and open or used products. Brown said postal customers will be receiving notification cards, along with plastic bags that can be used for donated items. A bin will also be placed in the lobby of the Orangeburg post office for food items. Rep. Gilda Cobb-Hunter, D-Orangeburg, and Sen. Brad Hutto, D-Orangeburg, lauded the Orangeburg post office's efforts to support the annual food drive. "Im just always grateful to the postal workers for what they do in collecting this food. I try to put some out every year and am grateful for their consistency in doing this each year. I just appreciate them for it," Cobb-Hunter said. Hutto said, "It is important. You never know when a family is going to be in need. Its all the community pitching in together to help those who need it the most. I appreciate the post office doing this annually because we think about this when a hurricane comes around or theres some emergency, but actually need happens all the time. "So having good volunteers in the community being willing to help, and then having the whole community pitch in is a wonderful thing. Individuals and groups who wish to donate their time to help deliver and unload food at CCMO can call 803-531-4913 or email CCMO@att.net. For more information about the drive, visit www.nalc.org/community-service/food-drive or www.facebook.com/StampOutHunger. Contact the writer: dgleaton@timesanddemocrat.com or 803-533-5534. Follow "Good News with Gleaton" on Twitter at @DionneTandD Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 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. By Trend The International Finance Corporation (IFC) has been supporting the Azerbaijani private sector for over 20 years and has invested $500 million within this period, IFC Chief Regional Manager for the South Caucasus and Russia Jan van Bilsen told Trend. Bilsen said that the investments worth $350 million were directed for trade financing. The investments were also made in the Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan pipeline, he added. Bilsen stressed that the analysis of the recent economic processes observed in Azerbaijan testifies to the need for a bigger focus on the private sector rather than on natural resources. In particular, the project entitled "Formation of the investment environment and competition in agribusiness" was launched to increase the competition in the Azerbaijani agribusiness through IFCs organizational support and financial assistance from the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO) and the Austrian Ministry of Finance, he said. This is an important step to maintain the development of the business environment and competition in the Azerbaijani agribusiness sector, which ultimately will have a positive impact on the development of the non-oil sector as a whole, Bilsen noted. He emphasized that by expanding economic development, Azerbaijan has more focused on the development of small and medium-sized businesses, which is in line with the regional plans of the World Bank (WB). At the same time, Bilsen stressed the necessity to create equal conditions for all entrepreneurs of small and medium-sized businesses, which is an important component in shaping the business environment. The recent reforms carried out in Azerbaijan in the field of ??private sector regulation have yielded results, which has been outlined in the WB Doing Business 2019 report, where Azerbaijan ranks 25th, he said. Having carried out reforms in eight out of ten categories, Azerbaijan ranked first in the report in terms of the number of the conducted reforms. The three-year project on the investment environment and competition in the agribusiness sector describes Azerbaijan as a loyal and reliable partner, Bilsen added. In turn, IFC will support all the efforts of Azerbaijan, which has great potential. He continued by saying that the corporation recommends to create an effective system based on checking and monitoring all the risks of the companies, which will lead to the improvement of inspection systems and regulatory impact assessment. The countrys agribusiness will receive advanced experience in the field of competition, which will reduce administrative and budgetary expenses, Bilsen commented. At the same time, this will create the conditions for maintaining public interest in this sphere and equal conditions for entrepreneurs. In his words, this project will further contribute to the flow of investments into the country, in particular, in the non-oil sector. The project will also help to improve the legal and administrative framework. This project is aimed at the development of agribusiness due to the big agricultural potential of Azerbaijan, which is intensively developing the export-oriented agricultural sector, Bilsen said. As a result of the implementation of this project, the competitiveness of Azerbaijani agricultural products will be improved. In this regard, it is necessary to eliminate current problems, improve regulation and the food safety system, which will lead to the creation of new job places. Bilsen said that, as the share of agriculture comprises 40 percent of Azerbaijans economy, IFC intends to fully support Azerbaijan for revealing its agricultural potential. According to him, the reforms have been carried out in Azerbaijan within the existing cooperation, and IFC is ready to contribute to the improvement of indicators and render support for the development of the country. The government wants to boost the use of photovoltaics with a new campaign. New governmental regulations are to increase the financial appeal of solar energy, specifically through less administrative procedures and better support/backing/monitoring. Didier Weber (RTL) Didier Weber (RTL) Didier Weber (RTL) Didier Weber (RTL) Didier Weber (RTL) Didier Weber (RTL) Didier Weber (RTL) Pierre Weimerskirch (RTL) Pierre Weimerskirch (RTL) Didier Weber (RTL) Didier Weber (RTL) Didier Weber (RTL) Didier Weber (RTL) Didier Weber (RTL) Didier Weber (RTL) Didier Weber (RTL) Didier Weber (RTL) Didier Weber (RTL) Didier Weber (RTL) Didier Weber (RTL) Didier Weber (RTL) Didier Weber (RTL) 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. Minister for Energy Claude Turmes considers photovoltaics to play an important role in the fight against climate change. Luxembourg has until December to settle on a national energy and climate plan, in which the details on how we will move towards using at least 23% to 25% of renewable energy by 2030 are to be outlined. Sample Calculation for private use The Ministry for Energy supplied the following example for private use: for a system/unit that costs 14,000, you get a 2,324 grant. An average electricity production of 6400 kilowatts per hour would translate to 1,056 per year. This means that the unit would become profitable within 11 years. Machines currently run between 15 and 25 years. New power categories are planned and the role of cooperatives is to be strengthened. A lower level category of 0-10 kW (~ 100 m2) at a lower price serves smaller roofs and single-family homes; for installations less than or equal to 30 kW, rates may be combined with the PRIMe House subsidies; and finally, a new 200-500 kW category will be introduced for larger roofs, cooperatives and civil societies. Furthermore, all roofs can now sustain installations. The previous restriction that meant a connection point can only accommodate one installation will be removed, and new installations can now be built next to existing installations, provided that the extant one is older than 2 years. In addition to increased financial incentives, the Ministry of Energy is refining its knowledge of the potential of solar energy in Luxembourg: a solar land registry, which will contain information on potentially useful built-up areas in Luxembourg, will be available in early 2020. As a practical tool, this registry will be developed with the help of myenergy to provide better information on the roofs conducive to the implementation of photovoltaic installations. All together for solar energy (from press release) As for the Government's strategy concerning the involvement of individuals, it is largely based on myenergys processes of raising awareness, informing the public of national structures that promote sustainable energy transitions. - With the advent of the new regulations and the new remuneration applicable to solar energy, the Ministry is launching an advertising campaign that will run until autumn, together with myenergy and in partnership with the Chamber of Commerce, the Federation of Craftsmen and the Order of Architects and Consulting Engineers; - Through the "Climate Pact" measures, municipalities are encouraged to actively contribute to raising awareness among their citizens; - in this spirit of cooperation between all actors, myenergy also offers different tools and services under its "common" portal (eg model statutes for the creation of a cooperative) and the structure can act as a facilitator between municipalities and cooperatives needing roofs to install photovoltaic power plants. In concrete terms, this facilitator assistance consists of the following elements: motivation of the municipalities to proceed with the promotion of photovoltaics and to provide solar panels for communal buildings; basic explanations for the development of cooperatives and civil societies; assistance in communicating with citizens to bring together citizens who wish to form a cooperative; contractual and technical assistance of the municipality; contractual assistance for the constitution of cooperatives or civil societies. This offer is offered in collaboration with Eurosolar Letzebuerg. State of affairs of renewable energies - Luxembourg has set itself an 11% renewable energy target in 2020 and is on track to achieve this goal. - In 2018, Luxembourg had a renewable energy rate of about 8%, of which about 1/5 was produced from solar energy. - In the field of photovoltaics, Luxembourg is in sixth position in Europe in terms of installations per inhabitant. - 6813 PV installations in Luxembourg (ILR 2017) In the field of photovoltaics the evolution of the number of installations can be summarised as follows: On 8 May, the employee delegation of State Street Bank Luxembourg signed a redundancy plan with the three trade unions ALEBA, OGBL, and LCBG. The bank will lay off 101 employees by 2020 in an endeavour to reduce costs. The group is outsourcing certain activities to India and Poland. The redundancy plan as negotiated by the trade unions and employee delegation will incorporate support measures and guarantee financial compensation. The foundations of the European Union were laid 69 years ago today. The 9 May is a special day for Europe. 69 years ago, on 9 May 1950, the French foreign minister Robert Schuman presented the so-called Schuman Declaration, thus laying the foundations for what would later become the European Union. The declaration proposed a European community, bringing member states together to combine their coal and steel production. Following the horrific experiences of World War II, the goal was to prevent any future conflict between France and Germany. A year later, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Belgium and Luxembourg formed the founding members of the so-called European Coal and Steel Community - the first European institution to operate across borders. Today, the EU celebrates the 9 May as Europe Day. EU heads of state, including Luxembourg prime minister Xavier Bettel, will come together for a symbolic EU summit in Sibiu in Romania. This Thursday marks the first ever bank holiday for Europe Day in Luxembourg - a first across the EU. No other EU member state celebrates the day as a holiday. Europe Day also commemorates the Luxembourg-born Robert Schuman. A memorial ceremony is to take place at 11am at Schuman's birthplace in Clausen, in Rue Jules Wilhem. Among others, the president of the European Movement, Astrid Lulling, will make a speech, before the unveiling of a memorial plaque in the park by the house in which Schuman was bor. Further celebrations will take place on the Place d'Armes throughout the day, including a European village with information stands, concerts, and other spectacles. The pinnacle of the celebrations will be at 2pm when the traditional Europe cake will be cut. Video in Luxembourgish One day ahead of a delinquency deadline to its lenders for a $1.8 million debt payment, and amid expectations that the third-largest coal firm in Wyoming will file for bankruptcy by the end of the week, Gillette-based Cloud Peak Energy has elected to pay up on a separate debt: local property taxes. The company paid nearly $700,000 to Campbell County on May 8 for land the company owns in Wyoming ensuring that the county cannot easily offer up that debt in a land sale. The troubled coal company still owes $8.3 million for coal from production that local officials are less and less confident the company will pay. The Campbell County production taxes were due March 1, but Friday is the drop-dead date, after which Cloud Peak will be delinquent. Unlike property taxes, production taxes are difficult for local officials to enforce. Thats a strategic decision, Mark Christiansen, commissioner for Campbell County, said of Cloud Peaks land tax payment. Christiansen said he still hopes that Cloud Peak will pay its taxes in the next day and a half but felt it was unlikely. Cloud Peak has been leaning toward a bankruptcy filing for some time, with the Wall Street Journal reporting Tuesday that a Chapter 11 filing would come by the end of the week. The coal company elected not to a pay a $1.8 million debt payment on March 15, taking advantage of a 30-day grace period. It entered into a forbearance agreement with its lenders, gaining another two weeks, then a third stay agreement for an additional week. On Wednesday, the company reported it had agreed to yet another extension with the new deadline to pay its debt set for 11:59 p.m. Friday. Cloud Peak operates three Powder River Basin mines: Antelope, Cordero Rojo and Spring Creek. Its mines account for about 20 percent of Wyomings Powder River Basin coal mine workforce. Follow energy reporter Heather Richards on Twitter @hroxaner Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 2 Angry 0 The business news you need Get the latest local business news delivered FREE to your inbox weekly. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. A liquefied natural gas terminal proposed for the Oregon coast to take natural gas produced in Western states to overseas markets was denied Monday by the states Department of Environmental Quality, which relied on a state authority provision granted in the Clean Water Act that conservative lawmakers in Wyoming and President Donald Trump have criticized. Section 401 of the act allows states to approve or reject projects according to how those projects may affect state waterways. Though at other times strongly in favor of state autonomy over projects within state boundaries, lawmakers like Sen. John Barrasso have argued that the provision is being used to block energy projects that should go forward. Trump recently signed an executive order forcing the Environmental Protection Agency to rewrite its guidance related to the controversial Clean Water Act provision, given that current guidance had created confusion, the order stated. Wyoming lawmakers have been broadly critical of West Coast states' perception of energy projects that may benefit Wyoming's fossil fuel industries -- such as a proposed coal export terminal, which was denied a water quality permit by Washington state. Washington's Department of Ecology said the coal port would cause "irreparable and unavoidable harm." Wyoming legislators recently considered avenues to sue Washington over the permit denial and the governor's office, under then-Gov. Matt Mead, added its voice to an existing suit against the state and governor for the water permit decision. It was under Section 401 of the Clean Water Act that Oregon's Department of Environmental Quality rejected the Jordan Cove LNG terminal. A representative from Jordan Cove requested Wyomings support in the development, which was provided via a letter to federal regulators last year under the Mead administration. The LNG project wasnt directly targeting Wyoming gas, but it would have been a rising-tide-floats-all-boats boon nonetheless, experts said. Oregons decision was criticized Tuesday by the Western States and Tribal Nations, formerly the Western States Rural Natural Gas Initiative, an advocacy group formed to support natural gas infrastructure development and liquefied natural gas terminals on the West Coast, including Jordan Cove. Decisions made on Jordan Cove in Oregon impact rural economies in western Colorado, said Rose Pugliese, a county commissioner in Mesa County, Colorado. For us, this is an issue of job creation and rural economic development. Follow energy reporter Heather Richards on Twitter @hroxaner Love 2 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 1 The business news you need Get the latest local business news delivered FREE to your inbox weekly. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. By Trend Since early 2019, the Entrepreneurship Development Fund of Azerbaijan (EDF) has provided 345 businessmen with preferential loans worth 37 million manats for financing investment projects worth 98.6 million manats, Deputy Minister of Economy of Azerbaijan Sahib Mammadov said at a business forum in the city of Guba, Trend reports referring to the Ministry of Economy. According to Mammadov, the implementation of these investment projects will allow for opening more than 1,400 jobs. The deputy minister noted that 65 percent of concessional loans were directed to the development of the agrarian sector, and 35 percent to the production and processing of various industrial goods. Speaking of the work done, the deputy minister said that, until today, 2,700 entrepreneurs of the Guba-Khachmaz economic region have been allocated preferential loans worth 204.1 million manats for the implementation of various investment projects. During the meeting held as part of the forum, preferential loans worth 1.5 million manats were allocated to 27 entrepreneurs of the Guba-Khachmaz economic region. The loans will be used to finance projects in such fields as animal husbandry, fishing and packaging of fruits and vegetables. The implementation of these projects will contribute to the creation of 70 workplaces. Until now, preferential loans worth 46.8 million manats have been allocated for financing 29 intensive vegetable and grain farms. This year, the fund plans to issue soft loans worth 160 million manats. The EDF was established under the Ministry of Economy of Azerbaijan in 1992. ($1=1.7 AZN on May 8) Alex Knighton, a junior at Natrona County High School, will be going to Italy in June for his wish from Make-A-Wish Wyoming, taking his mother, brother and grandmother with him. Knighton said he wanted to go to Italy for the food and to be able to take his grandmother to the Vatican and other religious sites -- "but also the food." A Casper man accused of breaking into Wyoming Medical Center and shooting at two staff members pleaded not guilty Wednesday morning to four charges related to the early March incident. Mitchell D. Taylor, 20, was formally arraigned in Natrona County District Court on two counts of aggravated assault for threatening to use a drawn, deadly weapon; one count of property damage; and one count of possession of a deadly weapon with unlawful intent. He appeared in court in an orange jail jumpsuit with his attorney, Joseph Cole, and a small contingent of supporters filling two pews behind him. Taylor faces 10-year maximum sentences for each aggravated assault charge and for the property damage charge. The possession of a deadly weapon charge carries a five-year max penalty. Taylor has been in custody since he was arrested in the early hours of March 4, when he allegedly entered Wyoming Medical Center through an unlocked back door, according to previous testimony and court documents. Taylor was allegedly high on LSD at the time, and he had driven to the hospital to seek help because he felt suicidal. He allegedly had a Springfield 9 mm handgun. Its unclear how long he was in the hospital before a housekeeper discovered him at roughly 1 a.m., according to court proceedings. Taylor allegedly asked the housekeeper what she was looking at before she turned and ran and he fired three shots. He then allegedly was met by a physician who was exiting a nearby doctors lounge. The doctor fled after seeing Taylor, according to court proceedings, and Taylor fired four more shots after him. The hospital was placed on a lockdown, and police responded to the scene. They found and arrested Taylor in a tunnel beneath the facility, subduing him with a Taser in the process. He allegedly asked police if hed killed anyone. When told no, he allegedly replied, Thats what I figured. The incident has prompted Wyoming Medical Center, the states largest hospital, to undergo sweeping security reforms and may lead to the facility having its own security force, rather than the contracted-out and unarmed officers who currently staff the central Casper building. Taylor, in his first court appearance in March, told the court that he was overdosing on LSD at the time. His bond was set then at $500,000, a figure that Taylor and his attorney, Cole, have repeatedly asked the court to lower. They did so again Wednesday. Cole told Judge Dan Forgey that Taylor wasnt a threat to the community, wasnt addicted to LSD or other drugs and that he was a lifelong Casper resident and posed no flight risk. Cole asked Forgey to lower the bond to $100,000. District Attorney Dan Itzen disagreed. He said that Taylor doesnt have a drug problem, he has a criminal problem. He noted that Taylor told law enforcement that he had planned on moving to Las Vegas apparently for school before the WMC incident. That meant he was a flight risk, Itzen said, and he reminded the judge that the state had initially asked for $1 million bond. Forgey met Taylor somewhere in the middle. The judge lowered the bond to $250,000. In his two previous appearances in court, Taylor has been animated. In mid-March, after his bond was kept at $500,000, the 20-year-old winced and pressed his fingers into his eyes and turned and mouthed his despair to the courtroom spectators. On Wednesday, with his bond cut in half, he smiled to his friends and family as he was led from the courtroom and mouthed I love you twice. Follow education reporter Seth Klamann on Twitter @SethKlamann Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Sign up for our Crime & Courts newsletter Get the latest in local public safety news with this weekly email. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. A woman Thursday afternoon pleaded guilty to forging a 96-year-old Casper womans signature on a check. Wendy M. Moore pleaded guilty in Natrona County District Court to a single felony count of forgery in the case. Prosecutors agreed, in exchange for her plea, to dismiss four other felony counts that alleged Moore forged other checks belonging to the woman. The agreement calls for Moore to pay restitution for all allegations, including those prosecutors dismissed, totaling more than $8,000. It also calls for both prosecution and defense attorneys to recommend she serve 3 years of probation in lieu of a 3-5 year prison sentence. According to court documents filed by prosecutors, Moore worked as a caregiver for the 96-year-old woman. In August, the victims daughter-in-law saw thousands of dollars in checks had been issued to Moore against the elderly womans checking account and she contacted police, the documents state. The elderly woman told police she had not signed the checks and the signature on them did not resemble hers, the documents state. Moore no longer works for the home care business. Although the documents list Moores address as a location in Natrona County, they also state she said she was living in Wisconsin when police contacted her in August. During Thursdays brief hearing, Moores court-appointed attorney said she has a new job and a new home. Dylan Rosalez, the attorney, did not specify where she now lives. Moore remained free on bond Wednesday afternoon. Follow crime reporter Shane Sanderson on Twitter @shanersanderson Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Sign up for our Crime & Courts newsletter Get the latest in local public safety news with this weekly email. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. When Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephanie Sprecher put exhibit No. 10,050 on a courtroom projector Wednesday afternoon, confusion broke out. A court reporter asked Sprecher to repeat the exhibit number. Judge Alan Johnson asked if defense attorney Beau Brindley had any objection to its admission to an already swollen evidence file. Exhibit 10,050, an image of a FedEx label, it turned out, was already in evidence. Sprecher displayed it on televisions moored to the walls of a federal courtroom in downtown Casper. With the momentary confusion resolved, Sprecher continued her questioning of a witness who said the package delivered painkillers prescribed by Dr. Shakeel Kahn to her Arizona home. The witness, Stacy Drndarski, was the 16th called by Sprecher and Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephanie Hambrick in the trial of the doctor, which has thus far spanned nearly two weeks and is expected to take a month to conclude. The prosecutors have charged Kahn with 21 felonies, including a single count of conspiracy to distribute drugs resulting in death and a single count of operating a continuing criminal enterprise. A conviction on either of those crimes is punishable by between 20 years and life in prison. His brother, Nabeel, stands trial on two felonies. Federal agents arrested Dr. Kahn in November 2016 at his Casper home. And days later prosecutors charged him with illegally distributing prescription painkillers. The governments lawyers have since said the alleged criminal conspiracy resulted in the overdose death of an Arizona woman. Prosecutors say Kahn dealt drugs out of his Arizona clinic before moving to Wyoming where he continued the conspiracy. The doctor used false medical records to cover up widespread drug dealing, according to prosecutors. Michael Thompson, who represents Kahn and works in Brindleys Chicago office, said at the opening of the trial that the doctor was misled by patients and never intended to break the law. Kahn, Thompson said, will demonstrate when he testifies that he did not form the intent prosecutors will need to prove to convict the doctor. This week, prosecutors presentation has largely relied on people for whom Kahn wrote prescriptions over the course of years. Paul Beland, of Massachusetts, took the stand Monday to say he flew to Denver and drove north to Kahns office, where the doctor wrote him prescriptions for hundreds of oxycodone pills and methadone. He said he tried to fill his prescription in Casper but was rebuffed at a pharmacy because it did not have enough opioids on hand. There wasnt an oxycodone in this town, Beland said of the prescription drug. They were all gone. After driving to a Colorado pharmacy, where he was rebuffed because of his Massachusetts license, Beland flew back to the East Coast empty-handed, he said. Beland told jurors he called the doctor, who later arranged to have the drugs filled and sent to him. Beland, who appeared in court wearing stripes, handcuffs and shackles, was initially charged along with the doctor and later took a deal with prosecutors. He is scheduled to be sentenced this summer. On Tuesday afternoon, Shawnna Thacker told jurors that in 2011 she started visiting Kahns office in Arizona as her mother was dying. She said she was later arrested for possession of drug paraphernalia, an arrest that was written up in a local newspaper. When she went back to the doctor, he knew about the arrest, she said. He kinda joked about it about reading about me in the paper, Thacker testified. Thacker likewise has pleaded guilty to a single federal count and is awaiting sentencing. Wednesday, husband and wife David and Stacy Drndarski, both of Arizona, took the stand. David Drndarski told jurors he at one point traded a motorcycle and a promise of labor on Kahns house for 10 office visits 5 each for he and his wife in which the doctor wrote prescriptions for hundreds of pills. When Stacy Drndarski took the stand on Wednesday afternoon, she told jurors and an audience of seven that Kahn knew his patients were misusing their prescriptions. He knew, but it was never said out loud, she said. Drndarski, who also worked at Kahns Arizona office, said she overheard Kahn joking with a patient about the misuse of an opioid cough syrup. The doctor joked that he would not prescribe the drug because he knew what it was used for, Drndarski said. Kahn later wrote the prescription, she testified. She said she continued to pay hundreds of dollars cash for office visits while she worked for the doctor, but Kahn did not examine her. When Kahn moved his office to Wyoming, Drndarski flew to Wyoming to fill prescriptions for her and her husband before returning to Arizona. Under cross-examination, Drndarski acknowledged that she had never told the doctor that she had been misusing the pills or selling them. She said, however, the doctor did not inquire about symptoms she reported on pain charts she filled out. I never really told him anything about pain or anything, she said. Sprecher began in the late afternoon questioning Erinn Downey, the Arizona medical board investigator who looked into Kahn. She said she began the investigation following two complaints by pharmacists in the same Arizona town. By 5:15 p.m., the prosecutor said she expected her questioning to take another hour and Judge Johnson ended the days proceedings. After jurors left the courtroom, Shakeel Kahn unclipped his brothers bow tie and U.S. Marshals led the two men out of the courtroom separately and toward Natrona County Detention Center, where they are being held in lieu of bond. In a brief conversation, prosecutors told the judge and defense attorneys they expect to conclude their presentation by Tuesday. Defense attorneys will have the opportunity to put on their own presentations, during which time the doctor will testify, before the case is handed over to jurors. Follow crime reporter Shane Sanderson on Twitter @shanersanderson Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Sign up for our Crime & Courts newsletter Get the latest in local public safety news with this weekly email. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Cloaked in a veil of secrecy that the University of Wyoming Board of Trustees shows no signs of lifting, the decision to demote President Laurie Nichols has driven frustration and rumors on campus and around the state. But the Nichols decision was just the latest in a string of decisions that the board of trustees has made behind closed doors. Trustees are appointed to public service by the governor and are subject to Wyomings public meeting laws. But through the broad use of executive sessions a provision that allows boards to meet in secret under certain clearly defined circumstances the current trustees have frequently shut the public out of decision-making, obscured their reasoning and debate, and left the students, faculty and staff they govern in the dark about how and why decisions were made. Beyond damaging morale on campus, the board is at the very least pushing the limits of the states public meeting laws, according to Cheyenne-based attorney Bruce Moats, an expert in Wyoming public meetings and records laws. In an interview with the Laramie Boomerang and WyoFile, Moats reviewed incidents where the board made liberal use of executive sessions. In essence, the board is choosing not to interpret this act liberally and in favor of openness, Moats said. Nowhere does the law require the use of executive sessions, Moats noted. When they meet in private, they do so by choice. A handbook provided by the governor to board appointees across state government warns them against heavy-handed use of the the privilege. The ability to attend public meetings is a basic tenet and right of Wyoming citizens, so tread lightly when deciding to go into executive session, says the handbook, last updated in 2012. But from decisions about refunding a donation to Casper businessman Tony Cercy after his high-profile sexual assault case to discussions about restructuring UWs popular Biodiversity Institute, the Board of Trustees has continued to invoke executive session. No decision is more emblematic of the boards lack of public disclosure than Nichols demotion. The campus community and the state at large were stunned by a March 25 UW press release stating she would become a faculty member when her contract was up. Ten days earlier, four leading trustees flew to Arizona, where Nichols was vacationing. Two days before that flight, on March 13, the trustees met in the second of two executive sessions via conference call. A meeting notice required by law said only that they had met for the purpose of Personnel. After the executive session, the trustees took a vote. Wyoming law requires votes to be made and actions to be taken in a public session. The board of trustees own bylaws also say meeting minutes should note what happened. But the March 13 minutes record only the following: Trustee Brown moved that the Board Officers and General Counsel proceed as discussed in Executive Session; Trustee Scarlett seconded the motion which passed with a majority vote at 1:38 p.m. Trustee Macey Moore was absent. The minutes do not note a request for a roll-call vote. Only one trustees vote is recorded, that of Trustee Dr. David Fall of Gillette who voted against the motion. Typically, when the trustees invite other individuals to attend executive sessions, the minutes list those people by name. In the case of the March 11 and 13 meetings, they hid one individuals identity, with the minutes stating simply that they admitted a third party to the executive sessions. The timing suggests that this was the decision to remove Nichols. However, the meeting minutes dont tell the public which trustee voted for or against what decision. In determining the fate of the university president which several former trustees called the most important decision the board can make the minutes obscure the current trustees votes. A pattern The Wyoming Public Meetings Act affords 11 reasons for a governing body to hold executive sessions not open to the public. Permitted reasons in the law are highly specific and actions of the board must be taken in public. The University of Wyoming Board of Trustees regular reliance on executive session and the resulting lack of transparency is a pattern for the board that stretches back at least several months, but some familiar with UW say a lack of public input has been a hallmark of the board of trustees for much longer. What I detected from faculty was they really feel left out of the loop, said Jim Rose, who served as an ex-officio member of the board in his role as executive director of the Wyoming Community College Commission. University faculty are for the great majority interested in the welfare of the institution and its students, Rose said. I think they rightly feel theyre being left out to the detriment of the institution and what they have to do. The Boomerang and WyoFile provided the UW communications office with a list of times executive session was used under dubious reasoning, or where meeting minutes hid the nature of votes taken after executive session and other incidents that appeared out of compliance with open meeting laws. The university responded by declaring the board had operated within the law in each case. In an interview, Board of Trustees President David True said his group follows university lawyers advice on executive session and rebuffed the suggestion that the sessions were overused. I truthfully believe that the board has appropriately utilized executive sessions, True said. The board does not intend to be secretive, he added, but uses executive sessions when it sees them as necessary. Thats the way it is and we abide by what we believe are the law and rules, he said. Questionable uses Trustees frequently make vague motions that obscure the record of what action has been proposed and voted upon as in the case of the March 13 vote that may have been for Nichols ouster. We dont know what the hell theyre voting on. And thats troubling that we dont even have a general gist of that, outgoing Faculty Senate Chairman Donal OToole said. Its a pattern. The boards minutes also obscure those actions. On Feb. 20, Trustee Jeff Marsh moved to allow the Office of Finance and Administration and Office of General Counsel to move forward as discussed in executive session, according to minutes from that meeting. The motion passed with a unanimous decision. In January, Trustee Michelle Sullivan moved to approve the Honorary Degrees as discussed in executive session. The Wyoming Public Meetings Law provides no justification for discussing honorary degrees in executive session, Moats said. Tara Evans, UWs general counsel, said in statements provided by UW spokesman Chad Baldwin that honorary degrees can be considered in executive session because discussion of the awards involves information that is confidential by law. In choosing to award honorary degrees the board could review records containing sociological data on individual persons and interagency or intraagency memoranda or letters which would not be available by law to a private party in litigation with the agency, Evans said. Under the Wyoming Public Records Act, a government agency can deny the publics right to view such intraagency memoranda if disclosure would be contrary to the public interest. However, it does not require such confidentiality. The board has also used executive session to discuss a number of leases, including one in March 2018 involving a contentious deal with the UW Foundation for management of the Marian Rochelle Gateway Center. The board eventually passed the lease agreement on a 5-4 roll call vote, though the motion provided almost no details of what the lease entails. The states public meetings law does not indicate that leases are allowed to be discussed in executive session and only states that a board can go behind closed doors on real estate matters when considering the selection of a site or the purchase of real estate when the publicity regarding the consideration would cause a likelihood of an increase in price. Evans argues that leases are allowed to be discussed in executive session because they involve legal advice, which she said falls under the Wyoming Public Meetings Laws carve-out for information confidential by law. However, in asserting that legal advice is confidential by law, Evans cited a section of Wyomings Code of Civil Procedure that states an attorney shall not testify in a legal case about communications made between that attorney and the client. These vague motions also appear to run afoul of the trustees own bylaws, which indicate that the minutes of their meetings should be clear enough so that readers can understand the action being taken. Action of the Trustees which utilizes material presented by reports or other documents shall be presented in the minutes in such form as to include, when not impractical, the full text of the action so that reference to other reports and documents is not necessary in order to determine the exact meaning of the action taken, the boards bylaws state. Moats said the lack of clarity runs counter to the entire purpose of minutes and the reason all actions are required to be taken in public. The minutes are there to record what happened for history, he said. Evans said vague motions are necessary to protect the proceedings of executive sessions. Minutes or proceedings of executive sessions are confidential by law, Evans wrote. While this requirement can make for vague motions, it is unavoidable in certain circumstances; the university cannot disclose that which is confidential in the first place. This confidentiality extends to any associated materials (for example, an appraisers report or a settlement agreement). Associated materials refers to records not considered public under the Wyoming Public Records Act, Evans said. But Moats disagreed. Theres nothing legally preventing them from giving a (clear) motion, he said. What harm would that do to name the business in the interest of the public? Moats continued that the board, like other Wyoming governing bodies, puts too much stock in the protections executive session offers. Just as some motions have dubious legality, so too do the executive sessions that precede them. Trustees, like many public officials in Wyoming, have suggested all discussions regarding personnel need to be kept confidential, but the word personnel does not appear among the 11 reasons that boards are allowed to use executive session. The only personnel discussions that are allowed to be held behind closed doors are those that involve accepting or tendering offers concerning wages, salaries, benefits and terms of employment during all negotiations or consideration of the appointment, employment, right to practice or dismissal of a public officer, professional person or employee, or to hear complaints or charges brought against an employee, professional person or officer. On the day the Nichols decision was announced, True said the board had not yet discussed the process trustees would use to hire the next president. True said the board would likely discuss that in an executive session the same week. Evans conceded that the search process for the universitys next president is not an allowable use of an executive session. She said all discussion surrounding the search process would happen in public. The trustees have consistently used personnel as a broad reason to shield their discussions. At a September meeting, Trustee Laura Schmid-Pizzato asked Ed Synakowski, UWs vice president for research and economic development, how many positions were expected to be cut as part of the planned closure of the Biodiversity Institute. McKinley instructed Synakowski not to answer, saying that the personnel matter would be discussed later in the week as part of executive session. His instruction came despite the fact that Schmid-Pizzato was not inquiring about the right to practice or dismissal of any specific employee. Former Trustee Mike Massie told the Boomerang he feels that unless theyre talking about specific individuals in the Biodiversity Institute, talking about a reduction in force to me that is debatable whether or not thats an executive session topic. You dont want to scare (faculty) but at the same time making a decision on a reduction of force is very much a public decision and at some point thats got to be debated in public, Massie said. The board also used an executive session in December to discuss whether to return a $2 million donation from Cercy, a Casper businessman who was convicted of sexual assault in 2018. The Wyoming Public Meetings Law does allow for discussions on donations to be held behind closed doors, but only when boards are considering the acceptance of a donation and only if the potential donor had requested anonymity. In Cercys case, there was no request of anonymity and his $2 million donation had previously been featured prominently in a UW Foundation publication. Evans said talking about the Cercy discussion in executive session was allowable because there was information thats confidential by law that needed to be discussed. She later clarified that she was referring to legal advice. Undocumented The law requires the board to take a formal vote before they can move into executive session. A board member must make a formal motion and cite one of the topics the Wyoming Public Meetings Law allows executive sessions be used for. Like any other action, a motion to convene an executive session must be included in the boards minutes. In 2018, only eight of the executive sessions the trustees held are reflected in their public minutes. The board held at least seven more executive sessions throughout the year that were not mentioned in their minutes. One of those executive sessions not documented in public minutes occurred in July and was scheduled to last 8 hours. Evans argued that because the meetings are recorded not all of the motions made were in the minutes. All executive sessions held thus far in 2019 have been noted in the minutes. The board has made other improvements to transparency in 2019 as well. Before the boards committee of the whole comes together each month, much of the grunt work happens in the boards subcommittees. Since those committees arent governing bodies, they dont, by law, need to be held in public. However, most of those committees do meet publicly. Since January, committee agendas and other documents have been uploaded to the UW website with more frequency. Still, the board isnt consistent in treating these committees as public. One of the committees that most affects faculty and employees, the trustees UW Regulation Review Committee, isnt treated as public. UW is considering policy changes that would affect how the performance of tenured faculty is reviewed and make it easier to dismiss faculty in some cases. The changes, which OToole said have alarmed faculty, originate from UW administration and are part of a university-wide effort to update regulations. However, they pass through the regulation review committee before going to faculty and staff for comment. A stamp on a copy of recent policy changes reviewed by WyoFile and the Boomerang show that the committee endorsed the policy changes on March 6. There is no record the committee met or considered the policies in meeting agendas or minutes. OToole said that faculty want to attend those meetings but that they are not posted. For the most part that committee meets offline, OToole said. The policies originate with university officials, not trustees, and the faculty and staff senate have the opportunity to discuss proposed changes and vote to approve or disapprove them in their own bodies. The changes are then returned to the board to be adopted in a public session, True said. Those regulations are not formulated and adopted in a vacuum, he said. A question of public service Massie recalled the December 2015 vote to hire Nichols. That meetings minutes say that the board entered executive session to discuss personnel. Then the board held a public discussion, where they were praised by then-Faculty Senate Chairman Tucker Readdy for a transparent search process. He noted that faculty view this process as a good sign, as well as a sign of interest in shared governance at UW, the minutes say. The board then lists each of the 12 trustees who voted in a unanimous decision to nominate Nichols for the job. Massie believes the minutes on the Nichols decision if indeed thats what they were should be as clear. Why isnt there a process similar to that in order to say that Laurie is no longer the president of the university? Massie said. Doesnt it take nine members of the 12 to retire a university president? Why isnt there a provision requiring the nine members to affirm that decision publicly? The trustees have been operating in gray areas on executive session, Massie said. Even during his years on the board, he said he at times raised concerns during executive sessions as conversations strayed from proper topics. The use of executive sessions expanded during his brief term, he said. The executive sessions were usually about a legal case the attorneys had to talk with us about or some kind of disciplinary action against an employee, he said. It was very specific and very obvious it had to involve executive session then it began to become more broadly applied. Former trustee Pete Jorgensen said he has been increasingly concerned by the amount of work the board of trustees does behind closed doors. When he was on the board, he said, we used (executive sessions) only when talking about presidents or reviewing salaries which were subsequently made public. The boards current makeup may drive increasing secrecy. A longtime legislator as well as former trustee, Massie is familiar with public meeting law and the rules behind it, he said. Massie supports public discussions even if its uncomfortable, even if it may result in some undesired consequences, he said. But that sentiment is not shared by all, he said. Those (board members) who have public service as part of their background, they worked in government or in the public sphere, tended to be more open, in his experience, Massie said. Those who come from private business or have worked their entire life in the private sector, they are the ones who tend to prefer executive sessions, he said. Those latter board members tend to believe that if discussions are uncomfortable they should go immediately into executive sessions so that people can talk freely, he said. The board leans toward a private sector background consistent with state political leaders desires, said Jorgensen, himself a former state representative and business owner. When youre confirmed by the Senate (as a trustee), the first question somebody asks is Do you understand how to run the University as a business? he said. True also serves on the Enhanced Oil Recovery Commission, another governing board at UW. Asked about previous service on public boards, he could recall only a role on an advisory board for the Bureau of Land Management, a federal agency. Ive served on a lot of different boards but a lot of them are industry kind of boards or bank boards, True said. Even in the face of an uproar over the Nichols decision, True declined to discuss whether the board has a trust problem with the campus. But the doubts on campus are clear. The board has faced significant criticism about the lack of transparency around the Nichols decision. For some former trustees on the outside, the lack of information about a decision they consider the most important one the board makes is worrisome. There seems to be a lot of pent-up need for information with alums and donors, former Wyoming State Auditor Rita Meyer said. Executive sessions were used but were not routine during her time on the board, Meyer said. The board of trustees is first and foremost a governing body for a public institution, Meyer said. You always need to look internally at the university itself and the institution and realize that you need to involve the staff and the faculty, she said. Lacking information, campus gossip fills the holes on key decisions. That worried OToole. Rumors themselves can be very corrosive, especially if theyre stupid, he said, and theres a lot of stupid rumors circling around and thats the problem with all the secrecy. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 The University of Wyoming board of trustees will meet privately and then publicly Friday morning to discuss its search for an interim president, the school announced Thursday. The board will meet by teleconference starting at 6 a.m., first with a private discussion to consider the appointment of a public employee, language culled from Wyoming law about use of executive sessions. The board will then open the meeting to public eyes as the trustees discuss the process and timeline for selection and announcement of an acting UW president. Spokesman Chad Baldwin declined to comment on whether the board will appoint an interim president Friday to temporarily take over for President Laurie Nichols, whose contract will not be renewed before it expires June 30. He noted that the description of Fridays executive session, which mentions the appointment of public employees, is reflective of state statute governing the use of executive sessions. That suggests the board will not be literally appointing someone during the private meeting. Baldwin said the session is being held at 6 a.m. because of the difficulties involved in scheduling all of the trustees for a phone call at the same time. The university typically announces such executive sessions ahead of time, albeit in more general language often using personnel as justification for the private meetings, rather than the statutory language included in Thursdays statement. But a joint investigation by WyoFile and the Laramie Boomerang earlier this week found that the universitys board had liberally used executive sessions which are held in private and the proceedings of which are confidential in the past, sometimes when they werent required and other times when the legality of the session was dubious. Asked if that investigation prompted the use of the statutory language in Thursdays announcement, Baldwin said the decision was informed by criticism the board has received regarding adherence to open-meetings law. The university has been under intense public and media scrutiny for several weeks now, since it announced in a brief press release on March 25 that Nichols would not have her contract extended beyond its June 30 expiration date and that she would become a faculty member. Little information has been released since that announcement, with board president Dave True telling the Star-Tribune and other media that he would not comment on the decision because it was a personnel move. Her successor will become the fifth UW president in six years. Indeed, there have been few details released even about the process to replace Nichols, other than the board wants the search to be open and transparent. True said in late March that the board was still deciding on a timeline and process for hiring interim and permanent replacements, meaning that the board had not established a timeline before announcing Nichols who is UWs first female president would not continue. Theres evidence to suggest the decision to not renew Nichols contract was made swiftly in March: University spokesman Chad Baldwin told the Star-Tribune last week that the board held executive session meetings on March 11 and March 13. At the latter meeting, the board took a vote, the Laramie Boomerang reported, though on what is unclear. On March 14, Nichols flew to Arizona for a vacation. The next day, the boards four leaders took the trustees private jet to an airport a short drive away from Nichols condo in Arizona. The plane was on the ground for fewer than 90 minutes. Ten days later, on March 25, the university announced Nichols contract would not be extended, despite no process being in place to replace her. True told the Star-Tribune in late March that the board would appoint an interim and that the search for Nichols replacement may begin before she leaves office on July 1. That same day, Nichols gave an interview to Wyoming Public Media in which she said she was surprised by her demotion to the faculty and hadnt been given an explanation. She told the radio stations Bob Beck that she would stay at UW and teach for at least the 2019-20 school year. On Wednesday, the University of Montana announced that Nichols husband, Tim, would take over as the dean of the schools Davidson Honors College. Nichols home in Laramie is also on the market, according to publicly available documents. True told the Star-Tribune in mid-April that the board is still trying to move forward on defining the type of position to be filled, the job description and the direction of the university as it applies to the presidency. He previously said that the board was pleased with the trajectory of the university and was not looking for a change in direction. That makes the decision about Nichols all the more confounding and the silence surrounding it all the more tantalizing. If the universitys governors werent displeased with where Nichols was leading the university, then why not extend her contract? I appreciate the level of confusion, True previously told the Star-Tribune. The board has held multiple executive sessions in the weeks since the Nichols announcement, all of them listed as having to do with personnel. The boards frequent use of executive sessions was the subject of a recent investigation by WyoFile and the Laramie Boomerang; the outlets found instances in which the use of executive sessions by trustees was often counter to state law. The silence coming from UW on the Nichols decision will likely have an effect on the university going forward, more than a dozen people close to the school have told the Star-Tribune in recent weeks. Those people who included former trustees, legislators, current and former UW employees, students and Wyoming residents wondered how the university would be able to recruit a strong successor while maintaining silence on Nichols. Follow education reporter Seth Klamann on Twitter @SethKlamann Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Get Government & Politics updates in your inbox! Stay up-to-date on the latest in local and national government and political topics with our newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Former Congresswoman Cynthia Lummis is seriously weighing a bid to replace outgoing Sen. Mike Enzi in the 2020 elections, several sources told the Star-Tribune this week. Lummis, who left office in 2016, has been considered a reluctant option to fill Enzis position. Despite her legislative pedigree and proven success in Wyoming, Lummis still has several active business interests in the state, as well as young grandchildren and a ranch to look after. However, since Enzi announced his retirement last week, the four-term congresswoman has received numerous calls from former colleagues in Washington urging her to run, her former Chief of Staff Tucker Fagan told the Star-Tribune on Thursday, which Lummis appears to be taking seriously. Shes had a lot of stuff on her plate, and shes working through those. And shes not done yet, said Fagan. But I know she is getting calls from people in Congress saying hey, if Enzis going out, you should take it seriously. And shes doing that. Shes mulling her business, family, lifestyle and the possibility of a run. Though several years removed from her last campaign, Lummis is still poised to mount a campaign in 2020. Lummis campaign committee is still active with the Federal Elections Committee and, according to recent financial disclosures, still has roughly $122,000 in cash on hand. I was fully expecting we were getting ready to wind that bad boy up and donate the rest of the money out, said Bill Cubin, a longtime GOP consultant in Wyoming and treasurer for Lummis campaign. Then this happened. Lummis consideration of a run raises the possibility of a primary showdown against Wyomings current U.S. Rep. Liz Cheney, who is heavily rumored to be considering a bid for Enzis Senate seat. Cheney challenged Enzi in 2014 but dropped out before the election. According to a report in Politico this week, members of the U.S. Senate have been urging Cheney, two-term congresswoman and a House committee chair to run for Enzis place in the upper chamber. With roughly one year to go before the filing deadline, Cheney, so far, has been mum on her future plans. Liz believes that this time should be about honoring Sen. Enzis lifetime of service to Wyoming and thanking him for all that hes done for our state, Cheneys Chief of Staff Kara Ahern said in response to a request for comment from the Star-Tribune earlier this week. A Cheney-Lummis matchup would present an interesting quandary for Wyomings conservatives. Lummis, considered a strong libertarian voice by Republican insiders in Washington, presents a stark contrast to the foreign policy of Cheney, whose interventionist views strongly resemble those of her father, former Vice President Dick Cheney. Both also have widespread name recognition and maintain the deep grassroots networks across the state that are needed to mount an effective campaign. Both candidates have name recognition. They both have the track record. So yeah, its going to be very interesting to see how that plays out, Fagan said. Follow politics reporter Nick Reynolds on Twitter @IAmNickReynolds Love 2 Funny 1 Wow 0 Sad 3 Angry 8 Get Government & Politics updates in your inbox! Stay up-to-date on the latest in local and national government and political topics with our newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. After 28 years at the nerve center of public life in Cheyenne, Pat Arp, a longtime public servant and Gov. Mark Gordons chief of staff, is leaving state government, Gordons office announced Tuesday. The announcement came suddenly for Arp who was selected as Gordons chief of staff earlier this year after serving as co-chair for his transition team and as his deputy during his tenure in the State Treasurers office. However, the timing, she told the Star-Tribune in an interview, was right. Though her initial agreement with Gordon when she signed on as chief of staff was to help set up his administration, Arps husband Randy a judge in Torrington recently announced his retirement due to medical difficulties. Arp, who has spent her weekdays living in Cheyenne for the last 19 years, saw that as a sign it was time to finally hang it up and enjoy retirement together. Our time together has been limited just by virtue of commuting, so he and I are both certainly excited to have much more time together, she said. Thats a big factor, and Im certainly excited to have this time finally arrive. Arp counts one of the longest and most distinguished careers in state government, including time at the Department of Workforce Services, a 20-year stint as deputy secretary of state and three years as deputy superintendent of public instruction in the early 90s. As transition chair, and later as chief of staff, Arp has been one of the primary architects behind Gordons administration, working to attract staff and identify appointees to fill key posts across state government. In a statement Tuesday, Gordon thanked her for her service, and for her role in getting his administration started. Pat has put in an impressive career as a public servant, he said. Today, she is helping to chart a sound course for the entire state with a wealth of experience from teaching, to social work, to organizational leadership. I thank her for dedication to Wyoming and for all of her wise counsel as my deputy in the Treasurers Office and in getting this office off the ground. Arp said she hopes to be involved in selecting her replacement, who will be responsible for seeing to fruition a number of the young administrations early projects. Significant projects on the horizon include the completion of an ambitious government efficiency plan, the hiring of a state engineer and a director for the Department of Administration and Information, as well as the movement of the office back into the historic state capitol, which will be completed this summer. I think in a governors office, there is always a lot to do, and so I cant say that everything will be finished or perfect as I walk out the door, she said. So my plan is to work with my team to have good continuity on these projects. While she left the door open on a return to government down the line, Arp said she and her husbands long careers in public service have given them little time to enjoy lengthy escapes from the hustle and bustle of government. First on her list is a long 4th of July weekend. What comes after that remains to be seen. After that, would I return to other projects? I dont know, said Arp. Thats down the road and I would have to take a look at that as it comes I guess. Itll be a new adventure, and itll have to play itself out. Follow politics reporter Nick Reynolds on Twitter @IAmNickReynolds Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Get Government & Politics updates in your inbox! Stay up-to-date on the latest in local and national government and political topics with our newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. A social history of Concord in the 19th century examines the ways changes in the town influenced Emerson and Thoreau. "The Transcendentalists and Their World" by Robert A. Gross; Farrar, Straus, and Giroux (864 pages, $40) Ralph Waldo Emerson relocated to Concord, Massachusetts, in 1834 to live with the Rev. Ezra Ripley, his step-grandfather. On July 4, 1837, at the dedication of a ... COMEDY Back to the Past The Gaslight Theatre, 7010 E Broadway. It's the 1980s and happy-go-lucky teenager, Mikey MacFry, gets mixed up in the crack-pot experiments of his good friend Doc Everett Crown. Using Doc's futuristic car, which he has turned into a time machine, they blast off for the rockin 1950s musical comedy. Call for times and dates. $22.95. 886-9428. Family Friendly Improv Comedy Unscrewed Theater, 4500 E. Speedway. Taking suggestions from the audience, performers create games and scenes right off the top of their heads. Nonprofit 501c3, tax deductible donations appreciated. 7:30-8:30 p.m. Friday and Saturdays. $8. 289-8076. House Team Double Feature Unscrewed Theater. Leaky Faucets and Comic Chaos perform long form Improv Comedy based on audience suggestions. Ages 17 and up. 9-10:15 p.m. May 18. $8. 289-8076. Quirkus Circus and the Missing Ringmaster Live Theatre Workshop, 5317 E. Speedway. Come out and get ready to laugh, be silly, and show off your talents in this family fun musical. 12:30-1:30 p.m. May 19. $10. 327-4242. By Azernews The Azexport portal continues to introduce auspicious mechanisms to facilitate trade procedures for exporters and buyers. Azexport is preparing projects to provide its participants with preferences, including issuance of service passports and co-branded Visa cards with interest-free credit limit for exporters, as well as access to the simplified import system for production materials, etc., head of the portal Zaur Gardashov told Trend. He noted that prior to the creation of the Azexport portal, the government considered several different options for supporting exporters through electronic platforms, assuming payment of up to $5,000 to each company for placing information about its products on various portals. For budgetary savings and efficiency, Azexport went a little different way, and this path turned out to be a success for our exporters, said Gardashov. He stressed that the main advantage of the Azexport project is that the company has achieved the same results with less costs (150 times less calculated as per company) and even more. Gardashov added that Azexport has launched a single exporter declaration, on the basis of which the exporter receives all permits online as well as many other services that provide customer search, export procedures and deliveries to foreign markets. Created in 2016, Azexport.az, integrated with the most popular electronic trading platforms, makes products available to potential buyers from anywhere in the world. The portal offers entrepreneurs the opportunity to export goods produced in Azerbaijan to traditional and new markets via international e-trading platforms. The mission of Azexport is to provide information about products of Azerbaijani origin and to be a beneficial platform for their sales in foreign and domestic markets. Earlier, Gardashov said that in order to improve the effectiveness of the portal, Azexport expands the list of international electronic portals with which it cooperates. Moreover, international e-commerce experts are regularly invited by the portal management in order to increase the knowledge of local producers in this field. Azerbaijan received export orders for a total of $178.4 million through Azexport.az portal in January-March 2019. In March, the total value of export orders amounted to $32.8 million. Russia (11.5 percent), Turkey (9.9 percent), the U.S. (7 percent), India (6.6 percent) and Georgia (5.3 percent) were the top five countries in terms of export orders in March. Export orders for almost $1.2 billion were received by Azexport portal from 126 countries of the world in the period from January 1, 2017, to March 31, 2019. Eric Spencer, who was state elections director at the time under Republican Secretary of State Michele Reagan, called the new wording eyebrow raising, but did not challenge it. Spencer, now an attorney in private practice, told Capitol Media Services on Wednesday that Brnovich probably has the power to make changes, especially on strictly legal matters. But he questioned how far that goes when making policy changes in descriptions. Any disagreement between the two offices should be worked out through negotiation, assuming there is still time before the ballot and publicity pamphlet printing deadline, Spencer said. Thats what Rep. Mitzi Epstein, D-Tempe, said should occur and will not occur if the law is changed. She said the 50-word description on the ballot is often the only language about the measure that some voters ever see. The change in SB 1451 is critical because the last election resulted in Democrat Katie Hobbs being elected as secretary of state with Republican Mark Brnovich returned to his office. Putting this language into statute would ensure that, at least for the next four years, it would be the Republican who gets the last word. Authorities have released the incident report and 911 calls about the 16-year-old boy who died while hiking with a Boy Scout group in Picacho Peak State Park in late April. About 8 a.m. on April 27, the group six scouts and two scoutmasters began hiking the Sunset Trail and reached the top about 12:30 p.m., according to a Pinal County Sheriffs Office incident report obtained by the Star on Wednesday. The department was dispatched about 1:30 p.m. after someone from the group called for help. I was advised that they were out of water and approximately one mile in from the trailhead, a responding deputy wrote in the report. On the way down the trail, the boy collapsed and was helped up by other scouts. The boy collapsed again about 100 yards farther down the trail and did not get back up, the report said. The boy was pronounced dead by Avra Valley Fire District shortly before 2:30 p.m. He has been identified as Joshua White from Goodyear, according to The Associated Press. A PCSO deputy was told White had two quarts of water with him on the start of the hike but was out of water by the time the group reached the top. A Tucson man has been sentenced to prison for a number of child pornography charges, officials say. Phillip Daniel Love, 34, was sentenced on Monday to 90 years in prison, according to a news release from the U.S. Attorney's Office. He also had prior convictions for child exploitation offenses in Pima County, the release said. Love pleaded guilty to charges of distribution, possession and production of child pornography in September. In July 2017, he was arrested by Homeland Security Investigations agents after an investigation showed that he had used a file-sharing program to distribute child pornography, the release showed. During a search of his devices, officials found more than a thousand images and videos "depicting child abuse of prepubescent victims," the release said. The investigation also revealed that Love created child pornography of a toddler while video-chatting with the child's caretaker. After three days of testimony, the federal judge overseeing the bench trial of a border-aid volunteer in Tucson gave a May 24 deadline for attorneys to file final arguments and briefs. Scott Warren, 36, is the last of nine volunteers with Tucson-based No More Deaths who faced misdemeanor charges related to leaving humanitarian aid in 2017 on the Cabeza Prieta National Wildlife Refuge west of Tucson. Warren is accused of driving on unauthorized roads in the wildlife refuge in June 2017 and leaving water jugs and food for migrants. He faces misdemeanor charges of driving a vehicle in a wilderness area and abandoning property there. On Monday, Warren testified he was exercising sincerely-held religious beliefs by providing aid to migrants while volunteering with No More Deaths, a ministry of the Unitarian Universalist Church of Tucson. Four volunteers were convicted in January and sentenced to 15 months probation, banned from the refuge and fined $150. Four others pleaded guilty to a civil infraction in February and fined $280. Judge Raner C. Collins will issue a verdict after reviewing the final filings from prosecutors and defense lawyers. Contact reporter Curt Prendergast at 573-4224 or cprendergast@tucson.com or on Twitter @CurtTucsonStar. 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. The federal government is warning consumers about repeated, late-night phone calls: Unless you know someone in Mauritania, dont call the number back. The new robocall scam targets U.S. phone numbers with middle-of-the-night calls that often involved a single ring each time. Arizona is among the states apparently being targeted in the most recent wave of robocalls, according to the Federal Communications Commission. Consumers have reported One Ring scam robocalls targeting specific area codes in bursts, often calling multiple times in the middle of the night, the FCC said. The calls are likely trying to prompt the recipient thinking they missed a call to call the number back, which often results in per-minute toll charges similar to a 900-number, the FCC said. The scammers typically receive most of the money from those toll charges. The feds advice to consumers is Dont call the numbers back. The scam charges show up on telephone bills as premium services, the FCC said. Recent reports said the robocalls often have the 222 country code of the West African nation of Mauritania, and that the overnight calls have also been prevalent in New York state. PHOENIX Republican lawmakers are making another bid to make it more difficult for Arizonans proposing their own laws to gather sufficient signatures. Legislation awaiting action in both the House and Senate would keep in place existing laws that spell out how many names are required to put a measure on the ballot, based on a percentage of people who voted in the last gubernatorial election. But HCR 2005 and SCR 1023 would add the additional burden of having to obtain signatures in each of the states 30 legislative districts and in proportion to the number of gubernatorial votes in each district. Lawmakers were supposed to vote on both plans on Wednesday. But the proposals, which ultimately would need voter approval in 2020, hit a snag as some Republicans questioned the breadth of the requirement and Democrats were universally opposed. Rep. Bret Roberts, R-Maricopa, said the change would give some voice to voters statewide, particularly in rural areas, about what gets on the ballot. It all shouldnt come from Maricopa and Pima county, he said. I think everybody should be at the table. By Trend On the occasion of the celebration of the 74th anniversary of the Victory over fascism, the military bands of Azerbaijan will organize performances in various parts of Baku from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm on May 9, Trend reports referring to the Defense Ministry of the country. Military bands will perform at the following six places: - Baku Seaside Boulevard (in front of the Azadlig Square); - Heydar Aliyev Park next to the Ukrainian circle in the Ahmadli settlement; - Zarifa Aliyeva park; - Officers Park; - Yasamal Park (near L?DER TV channel) - Fountain Square. On the occasion of the celebration of the 74th anniversary of the Victory over fascism, the soldiers field kitchen will be deployed for guests at 12:00 on May 9 in the courtyard of the Organization of Veterans of War, Labor and Armed Forces of the Republic of Azerbaijan (address: 34, Kaverochkin Street, Narimanov district, Baku). The team of the Ideological and Cultural Center of the Azerbaijan Army named after Hazi Aslanov and the military bands will present a concert program. It is also planned to hold various events s part of the celebration of the 74th anniversary of the Victory over Fascism in Nakhchivan, Ganja, Shamkir, Sumgayit, Barda, Agdam, Terter, Beylagan, Lankaran, Gusar, and Khirdalan on May 9. The inaugural National Forum on Developing Vietnam Technology Companies was held in Hanoi on Thursday, aiming to build up a community of Vietnamese technological companies under the slogan of Make in Vietnam. The event, themed Aspiration, Vision and Strategy for a Prosperous Vietnam, was attended by Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc and brought together about 1,000 delegates representing the government, ministries, agencies and localities, along with hundreds of domestic and foreign experts and technology businesspeople. The forum is expected to turn domestic tech companies into momentum to create economic breakthroughs, thus helping Vietnam escape from the middle-income trap and become a developed nation. Attendees discussed a range of issues such as technology-related problems in Vietnam, how to move out of the middle-income trap, policies and solutions to develop Vietnamese tech firms, and solutions to connect them with those in such sectors as agriculture, healthcare and public services. In his remarks, PM Phuc said it is essential that technology be considered the key factor to take Vietna out of the middle-income trap and become a developed country. Vietnams information-technology sector raked in some US$98.9 billion in revenue in 2018, $94 billion of which came from export activities, according to the Vietnam News Agency. The sector also reported a trade surplus of some $26 billion and contributed nearly VND50 trillion ($2.16 billion) to the state budget. The ICT sector also created more than 1 million jobs for local workers, the Vietnam News Agency quoted Deputy Minister of Information and Communications Phan Tam as saying at a press conference in Hanoi on Monday. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! A project aimed at raising awareness on child sexual abuse in Vietnam has aroused controversy for displaying child models with pregnant bellies in haunting photos without covering their faces. The 12-piece photo album, named Nhung Dua Tre Mang Bau (Pregnant Children), was produced by SHINE Academy, a private center that provides soft skills training for children. In the photos, girls in their preadolescence appear to be pregnant and either alone, in a small group, or interacting with their aggressors. A look of terror and dismay is present on all of the subjects faces, highlighted by gloomy backgrounds. A combination of photos in the Nhung Dua Tre Mang Bau album. Photo: SHINE Academy The album is part of a communications project to raise community awareness on sexual abuse against children, SHINE Academy writes on Facebook. At first we were petrified by the idea [of children posing as pregnant], but it brought us joy to think about how we were doing our part to help protect other children through these photos, Ngoc Linh, one of four child models who took part in the project, was quoted by SHINE Academy as saying. Each photo also features a quote or statistical fact about child sexual abuse in Vietnam. The album has been shared over 31,000 times and garnered more than 20,000 reactions on Facebook since it was first uploaded on the social media platform on Monday. It has since attracted both criticism and praise, with controversy chiefly revolving around the fact that the child models do not have their faces censored despite the sensitivity of the topic in question. In photos of this nature, the underage subject often has their face blurred, covered, or completely hidden from sight, said Dr. Nguyen Trong An, a child protection expert. When you capture a clear shot of the child models faces, their photos might be easily manipulated by ill-intentioned people to be posted on pornographic sites, making them a target for aggressors, An explained. Meanwhile, photographer Ha Dao said she considers the over-dramatization in the photo album unnecessary, as child sexual abuse does not always lead to visible outcomes such as pregnancies. The psychological trauma from unwanted hugs, kisses, and teases are often immeasurable and overlooked, Dao said. A photo in the Nhung Dua Tre Mang Bau album by SHINE Academy that has been altered by a local journalist, adding sunglasses and masks to the models to cover their faces. Photographer Maika Elan suggests that it is better for a community-minded project to offer solutions to the problem rather than simply raising awareness. Bad people exist everywhere, so its more important that we are equipped with knowledge to protect ourselves, Elan said. Writer Hoang Anh Tu expressed a more forgiving look on the projects shortcomings. We cannot wait forever for a perfect message to start raising our voice while our children remain unsafe in the real world, he said. Cong To, a TV host involved in the Nhung Dua Tre Mang Bau project, said his team had considered all options before choosing to photograph the child models with their faces uncovered. Hiding their faces could lead to misunderstandings that the subjects of their photos are real-life victims, To explained. All child models involved in this project completed two of our courses on self-defense against sexual abuse and fully understand the significance of the project as well as possible unwanted consequences, To said. If any negative impact is caused by the project on these children, we are willing to pull the plug on it immediately, he added. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! Theres just no stoppin some folk from Reality TV cameras Dance Moms matriarch Abby Lee Miller, who served prison time for fraud, is returning to television in Dance Moms: Resurrection. The series will be preceded by a special on her health recovery following her diagnosis of non-Hodgkins lymphoma. The road has not been easy for Dance Moms star Abby Lee Miller. After completing her prison sentence last year, the famed dance instructor was diagnosed with non-Hodgkins lymphoma. But if anything, Abby has proven she is a fighter and is not ready to hang up the dance shoes. Dance Moms: Resurrection will follow Abby as she rebuilds her dance company while battling the after effects of a cancer that has left her confined to a wheelchair. Abby is ready to get back to her life and do what she loves mostteaching students to dance! With the goal of putting her life, health and dance studio back together, Abby returns to where it all began the Abby Lee Dance Company in Pittsburgh. Season 8 kicks off with a one hour special on Sunday June 9 at 6:30pm providing an inside look at Abbys physical and emotional struggles while undergoing chemotherapy and learning to regain the use of her legs, all the while pushing forward to keep her dream of a new competitive dance team for the Abby Lee Dance Company alive. Immediately following at 7:30pm, the first episode of Dance Moms: Resurrection will showcase the newest kids of the ALDC as they fight to become the best dancers they can be and earn a spot on Abbys Elite Team while their mothers fight battles of their own. Meet the new dancers and their mums! Mum: Ann Daughter: Hannah (13) As a former choreographer and pageant director, Ann expects only the best from Hannah which means even if theres no dance class Hannah is in the studio. Mum: Adriana Daughter: Kamryn (7) An athlete since childhood, Adriana views Kamryns dance as a sport. Kamryn has been dancing she she was 2 years old and has placed first in many competitions. Mum: Erin Daughter: Savannah (11) Former first grade teacher, Erin, quit her job to be a full time dance mum to Savannah. Erin will often film Savannahs routines and play them back to show her what she did wrong. Mum: Michelle Daughter: Sarah (11) Full time dance mum Michelle is a Pittsburgh native who has many friends in common with Abby. She has yet to find the perfect studio for Sarah and is hoping the ALDC will be it. Mum: Ashley Daughter: Pressley (11) Ashley is a dance studio owner and former professional dancer. Pressley is following in her mums footsteps and has danced with Justin Beiber! Mum: Joanne Daughter: GiaNina (13) Dance teacher Joanne has taught her daughter, GiaNina, everything she knows. GiaNina has already danced on Broadway, been in a movie and recently toured with Mariah Carey. Mum: Tricia Son: Brady (13) Tricia is her son Bradys biggest fan. Brady is the first dancer in his family and will do whatever it takes to make Abbys Elite team. Mum: Stacey Daughter: Lilliana (10) Stacey and her daughter Lilliana are back at the ALDC! Having left her job, Stacey is now committed to being a full time dance mum. She feels that she and Liliana have the upper hand being the only returning team members this season. Dance Moms is produced by Collins Avenue, with Jeff Collins (Dance Moms, The Drama Queen), Bryan Stinson (Dance Moms, So Sharp) and Michael Hammond (Dance Moms, Hells Kitchen), along with Gena McCarthy, Brie Miranda Byrant and Kimberly Chessler of Lifetime. A+E Networks handles global sales for Dance Moms. 6:30pm Sunday June 9 on Arena then weekly from 7:30pm. The South Australia screen industry is contributing more to the states economy according to a new report by Deloitte Access Economics. The South Australian screen industry has contributed a record $119.5 million to the states economy in the past financial year. Recent TV projects have included Upright, The Hunting, Pine Gap, Wanted and Deadly Family Portraits. Direct spending from screen production (Film / TV / Online) has almost doubled since the last report, from $38.8 million in 2013/14 to $65.5 million in 2017/2018. The indirect contribution towards other industries from screen production is $54 million compared to $38 million in 2013/14. The report found a total of 1,170 local jobs in the industry, while for every two jobs within the screen production industry, around one job is supported elsewhere in the local economy. The SAFC supported 18 projects in the past financial year, including feature films I Am Mother, and Storm Boy which were shot in South Australia, Minister for Innovation and Skills, David Pisoni, said. The SAFC provided $5.3 million for production resulting in more than $35 million being spent in South Australia during production. In this period, we have seen strong local jobs growth in the screen industry sector, with more than 1,100 full-time-equivalent jobs created compared to 754 FTEs in 2013 / 2014. I now look forward to more opportunities coming to our state after the Premier and I met with Hollywood production houses in January, espousing the creative and production benefits of the screen industry in South Australia. An additional $13.9 million is expected to be spent in South Australia as a result of the State Governments Post Production, Digital and Visual Effects rebate scheme which provided $1.4 million towards seven productions in the last financial year. SAFC chief executive, Courtney Gibson, said, As well as delivering brilliant content to growing audiences, we are creating more jobs than ever before in the screen sector and throughout the broader South Australian economy. On Mothers Day Sunday Night Matt Doran tracks the tale of Abigail Prangs who was abandoned as a baby in Zimbabwe before later growing up in Queensland. Seven cameras follow her as she returns to Zimbabwe for the first time in 30 years. The filming entailed the arrest of producer Stephen Rice and reporter Matt Doran by local authorities, before being released. A Daughters Journey It was the worst possible start in life. Abigail Prangs was just one day old when she was dumped and left to die on the outskirts of Zimbabwe. That was back in 1983. Little Abigail was found in a gutter and later adopted, growing up as an Australian and enjoying an idyllic Queensland childhood. But who left her on that lonely African backroad and why has remained a mystery for 36 years. Now Abigails turned detective in her quest for the truth. Her incredible journey will take her from the heights of joy to the depths of despair and back again. This Mothers Day, in a Sunday Night exclusive, we join this remarkable mum as she returns to Zimbabwe for the first time in almost three decades. Sunday Night senior correspondent Matt Doran was with Abigail as her story unfolded. Their search for answers revealed powerful enemies and led to a showdown with local police. This is an epic tale of love, family, courage and corruption. And it has an ending no one could have predicted. Sunday at 8.30pm on Seven. The French government has confirmed that a new shipment of weapons will head for Saudi Arabia, but maintains it has no proof they are being used by Riyadh in the war in Yemen. Defence Minister Florence Parly told BFM television Wednesday that the weapons would be loaded onto a Saudi cargo ship, Bahri Yanbu, which is due to arrive in the French port of Le Havre today.She refused to identify the types of arms, but restated France's position that they have been used by Saudi Arabia solely for defensive purposes since it began its Yemen offensive in 2015."As far as the French government is aware, we have no proof that the victims in Yemen are the result of the use of French weapons," Parly said.Pressure has been mounting on the government after the investigative news site Disclose leaked a classified military note last month detailing the use of French tanks and artillery in the war against Houthi rebels.Disclose alleged the new shipment included eight truck-mounted Caesar howitzers, though a government source told AFP this week that such cannons were not included in the delivery.The revelations prompted arms sales watchdog ASER to file a complaint with the Paris administrative court on Monday, calling for an urgent end to French arms shipments to the Gulf.Benoit Muracciole, head of ASER, told France 24: The court has between 72 hours and a month to rule on our complaint. Technically, if the shipment is still in French waters, the court can halt the delivery".He believes the French governments strategy is to continue the sale of weapons while feigning ignorance of whether or not they are being used against civilians.Knowledge of war crimes being committed is crucial, said Muracciole. The truth is France has been aware of war crimes in Yemen since they were documented by the UN.Protest in French parliamentThe four-year Yemen conflict between a Saudi-led coalition and Iranian-backed Houthi militias has resulted in the deaths of more than 10,000 civilians and brought some 10 million poeple to the brink of famine. The United Nations has described it as the world's worst humanitarian crisis and its investigators say both sides may have committed war crimes.Rights groups have accused Paris of being complicit in alleged war crimes against civilians in Yemen. On Tuesday, all leftwing lawmakers exited parliament in protest after Genevieve Darrieussecq, secretary of state for the armed forces, said there was "no proof these weapons are being used against civilian populations".Between 2013 and 2017, France accounted for 4% of all arms sales to the Saudis, according to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), well behind the US (61%) and the UK (23%).But while its sales have declined sharply since 2016, it has resisted pressure to stop arms sales to Riyadh altogether in marked contrast with Germany, which has suspended all weapon sales since last October."France has strategic interests in this part of the world," Parly said Wednesday, adding that the latest shipments were part of "long-term partnerships with Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirate"s. The French government has confirmed that a new shipment of weapons will head for Saudi Arabia, but maintains it has no proof they are being used by Riyadh in the war in Yemen. Defence Minister Florence Parly told BFM television Wednesday that the weapons would be loaded onto a Saudi cargo ship, Bahri Yanbu, which is due to arrive in the French port of Le Havre today. She refused to identify the types of arms, but restated France's position that they have been used by Saudi Arabia solely for defensive purposes since it began its Yemen offensive in 2015. "As far as the French government is aware, we have no proof that the victims in Yemen are the result of the use of French weapons," Parly said. Pressure has been mounting on the government after the investigative news site Disclose leaked a classified military note last month detailing the use of French tanks and artillery in the war against Houthi rebels. Disclose alleged the new shipment included eight truck-mounted Caesar howitzers, though a government source told AFP this week that such cannons were not included in the delivery. The revelations prompted arms sales watchdog ASER to file a complaint with the Paris administrative court on Monday, calling for an urgent end to French arms shipments to the Gulf. Benoit Muracciole, head of ASER, told France 24: The court has between 72 hours and a month to rule on our complaint. Technically, if the shipment is still in French waters, the court can halt the delivery". He believes the French governments strategy is to continue the sale of weapons while feigning ignorance of whether or not they are being used against civilians. Knowledge of war crimes being committed is crucial, said Muracciole. The truth is France has been aware of war crimes in Yemen since they were documented by the UN. Protest in French parliament The four-year Yemen conflict between a Saudi-led coalition and Iranian-backed Houthi militias has resulted in the deaths of more than 10,000 civilians and brought some 10 million poeple to the brink of famine. The United Nations has described it as the world's worst humanitarian crisis and its investigators say both sides may have committed war crimes. Story continues Rights groups have accused Paris of being complicit in alleged war crimes against civilians in Yemen. On Tuesday, all leftwing lawmakers exited parliament in protest after Genevieve Darrieussecq, secretary of state for the armed forces, said there was "no proof these weapons are being used against civilian populations". Between 2013 and 2017, France accounted for 4% of all arms sales to the Saudis, according to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), well behind the US (61%) and the UK (23%). But while its sales have declined sharply since 2016, it has resisted pressure to stop arms sales to Riyadh altogether in marked contrast with Germany, which has suspended all weapon sales since last October. "France has strategic interests in this part of the world," Parly said Wednesday, adding that the latest shipments were part of "long-term partnerships with Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirate"s. A woman walks along a street in Port-au-Prince's wealthiest district, Petionville. Fiona de Hoog , Author provided One afternoon in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, sitting on the back of a motorcycle-taxi stuck in traffic, I was absently staring down a wide unpaved side-street when the small figure of a young girl came into focus. Her silhouette was boldly present against the sunlight behind her and the pale, dusty haze that swirled around her. She was carrying a huge bag on her left shoulder, and her body contorted to support its weight. She wore a worn-out denim skirt with a brown vest top and her hair was in untidy knots. Her appearance was in sharp contrast to the pristine, smiling schoolchildren Id just watched walk by. I realised in that moment I might be looking at one of Haitis domestic child slaves, locally known as restavek. Forced labour is a worldwide phenomenon affecting around 25m people, of which 4.3m are children. Unlike child labour, which involves minors working in a range of circumstances, forced labour involves children being coerced by someone other than their parents. Sometimes, as is the case for restavek children in Haiti, they are forced to perform tasks that are hazardous to their health, safety and development. Fiona de Hoog , Author provided Children live in a world that has been moulded by the adults around them. It is therefore necessary to look to those responsible for children and those implicated in their trafficking and enslavement to understand the root causes of child slavery and formulate solutions. This is why I was in Haiti: to research the role of women in the trafficking of children into the restavek system. A female system of slavery What I found there both shocked me and confirmed what Id suspected. Restavek children are part of a female-dominated system of child slavery. They are typically taken from rural areas, where economic poverty is extremely grave and widespread, to urban centres where poverty can sometimes be felt on an even deeper level because of the lack of access to natural resources. In most cases, urban women approach intermediaries usually women who transport agricultural goods from farms to markets to enquire about acquiring children to help around the house. The intermediaries then seek out children from economically disadvantaged families in rural areas. Parents of restavek children are usually unaware of the situations into which they send their children, hoping for a better life, food and access to school. Story continues But the realities for restavek children are quite different. They are physically and verbally abused, their basic needs are neglected and they are either partially or completely withheld from school. Though the children are trafficked and treated as slaves, payments are made to the traffickers in the form of gifts. If cash changes hands it is usually as compensation for travel expenses. Fiona de Hoog , Author provided One such woman, talking about how she acquires children, admitted: The mother can ask me Is she a good person? I say yes to her just so shell agree to give me her child even though sometimes I dont even know the person the child will be going to live with. But to secure the parents trust, Ill say anything at all. The number of restavek children in Haiti is unknown. But estimates are upwards of 225,000. Some experts I spoke to in Haiti told me the real number could be over 500,000 thats approximately 13% of Haitian children. While the origins of the practice are unknown, it is mentioned as being already established in 1937 and links might be made to similar practices in Africa, such as the vidomegon practice in Benin, an ancient tradition whereby a child is leased to another (usually wealthier) family. Most restavek children live and work in homes in severely economically deprived urban areas. Their role encompasses domestic labour in a context where households lack basic infrastructure and require human effort to function. They fetch water, cook over charcoal fires, do backbreaking laundry work and attend to the needs of the households members, including children older and younger than them. The tasks they perform are part of what is generally understood as womens labour. This somewhat explains why it is women who take in restavek children and perhaps why the majority around two-thirds of these children are girls. A violent life But this does not explain the violent treatment they receive. Fiona de Hoog , Author provided During an interview with a woman who had a young girl in her home, I asked if she felt a sense of responsibility towards her, pointing out that restavek children can suffer psychologically. She finished my sentence: Because they live so terribly? They get sick and they cant even tell anyone? I nodded and she continued: Even breathing is difficult?. Yes, I said: Do you feel responsible for that?. She replied with a simple no. I was told by Haitian child protection professionals that there is rage in womens treatment of restavek children. Stories were recounted to me of a restavek girl being punished by having a hot iron placed on her bare chest, a girl whose school uniform socks were used as toilet paper and a girl who died after being given rat poison to drink (to cause an abortion because she had become pregnant after being raped). It soon became evident that the violence associated with the female-dominated restavek system goes beyond a means to coerce and control, and is actually more indicative of the mental states of the women in question. Fiona de Hoog , Author provided Female trafficking Some elements of the restavek system of child slavery are specific to Haiti but one thing is universal across the planet: the position of women as primary caregivers to children. This is especially significant in societies where child forced labour is prevalent. Womens complicity is a core element of certain trafficking systems, but their role as primary caregivers tends to hide this fact. The wider question remains. What is it about womens lives in Haiti that causes and allows child slavery to happen? The answer is rooted in womens experiences of poverty and the ways gender-based violence is felt not only as physical violence and sexual abuse, but in the many ways gender hierarchies are established and maintained. Poverty worldwide has been found to affect women disproportionately, not only in terms of monetary but also social and political power. The various culturally specific but universally applied gender norms that give women limitless responsibilities and limited power form dangerous territory for those whose safety exists within the boundaries of womens authority: children. As Haitis historical, economic and societal problems bear down on the population, women suffer the consequences disproportionately. Is it any wonder that children are exposed to such dangers as a consequence? Fiona de Hoog , Author provided The restavek system is culturally and geographically specific, existing paradoxically in a society that demonstrates more understanding of human rights equality, dignity, respect and freedom than many Ive come across. It is also part of a global picture of child slavery and lessons learned on the local level can and must be applied worldwide. The lesson here is that gendered structural inequalities have direct adverse effects on children. It is key that we take this into account as we try to formulate solutions to the modern slavery crisis. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. The Conversation Fiona de Hoog Cius does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment. By Trend A meeting was held in the Azerbaijani parliament between the members of the working group on interparliamentary relations between Azerbaijan and Georgia and the delegation of the Georgia-Azerbaijan parliamentary friendship group, which is on a visit to Baku, Trend reports on May 8. The delegation was led by Vice-Speaker of the Georgian Parliament Zviad Dzidziguri. Speaking at the meeting, head of the working group Aflatun Amashov stressed the positive development of relations between Azerbaijan and Georgia during the period of independence. The official meetings and bilateral visits between the two countries give positive results, he said. Amashov also emphasized the importance of bilateral cooperation within international organizations and the role of interparliamentary relations in the development of multisectoral cooperation between Azerbaijan and Georgia. In his turn, Dzidziguri expressed Georgias interest in further strengthening the ties with Azerbaijan and emphasized that the Georgian side always supports cooperation in various spheres, including trade, tourism and industry. He also characterized Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev as a very strong leader. During the meeting, MPs Ganira Pashayeva, Rasim Musabayov and Flora Karimova expressed deep concern over the erection of a monument in Georgia to separatist and terrorist Mikhail Avagyan, who was involved in the killings of civilians during the Armenia-Azerbaijan Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. The sides also exchanged the views on a number of issues in terms of the further development of bilateral relations. 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. 888poker LIVE Returns to Barcelona on May 22 to June 3 May 09 2019 Jason Glatzer The 888poker LIVE festival will be heading to the Catalonian capital of Barcelona, Spain for 11 days of exciting poker action at the Casino Barcelona. The festival features plenty of tournaments and satellites with combined guarantees of 1 million on May 22 to June 3. The first big event on the 888poker LIVE Barcelona schedule is the 220 Opening Event on May 23-26 featuring a healthy 150,000 guarantee. There are four opening flights in the tournament on May 23-25 with players starting off with 30,000 in chips and allowed to re-enter up to two times. Blinds are 30-minutes for the first three flights with the final one taking place twice a fast with 15-minute blind levels. Surviving players will play down to a winner with 40-minute blind levels on May 26. The next big event is the 2,200 High Roller on May 29-30. The tournament allows for unlimited re-entries during the late-registration period and boasts 45-minute blind levels throughout. PokerNews Covering the Main Event The highlight of the festival is easily the 888poker Live Barcelona 1,100 Main Event on May 30 to June 3. The tournament kicks off with three opening flights on May 30 to June 1 with players starting off with 30,000 chips and compete for 12 blind levels of 45-minutes each. Players can re-enter as many times as they wish during late registration as they strive to make it through to the money places where at least 550,000 is guaranteed to be awarded. The PokerNews Live Reporting Team will be on hand to cover the Main Event from beginning to end as was the case last year when Adrian Costin Constantin shipped the event after agreeing to a heads-up deal with Joel Isla with both players walking away with 114,025 ($133,323). 888poker LIVE Barcelona Schedule Date Time (CET) Tournament Buy-in Stack Clock May 22 4 p.m. Turbo Satellite to Opening Event 1A 50 5K 15 min. May 23 4 p.m. Turbo Satellite to Opening Event 1A 50 5K 15 min. 6 p.m. 888poker LIVE Barcelona Opening Event Day 1A 220 30K 30 min. May 24 5 p.m. 888poker LIVE Barcelona Opening Event Day 1B 220 30K 30 min. 7 p.m. The Thunder 15,000 Gtd 88 15K 20 min. May 25 12 p.m. Turbo Satellite to Opening Event 1A 50 5K 15 min. 2 p.m. 888poker LIVE Barcelona Opening Event Day 1C 220 30K 30 min. 6 p.m. 888poker LIVE Barcelona Opening Event Day 1D 220 30K 30 min. 7 p.m The Breeze 15,000 Gtd 110 15K 20 min. May 26 1 p.m. 888poker LIVE Barcelona Opening Event Final Day 40 min. 2 p.m. High Noon Turbo 5,000 Gtd 50 10K 15 min. 6 p.m. The Hurricane 15,000 Gtd 110 15K 20 min. May 27 6 p.m. The Swordfish 15,000 Gtd 55 10K 25 min. May 28 6 p.m. The Turbo Deepstack 10,000 Gtd 77 10K 15 min. May 29 6 p.m. The Lightning 8-Max 10,000 Gtd 66 10K 20 min. 7 p.m. Super Satellite to Main Event Day 1A 110 8K 20 min. 8 p.m. 888poker LIVE Barcelona High Roller Day 1 100,000 Gtd 2,200 100K 45 min. May 30 3 p.m. Super Satellite to Main Event Day 1B 110 8K 20 min. 5 p.m. 888poker LIVE Barcelona High Roller Day 2 100K Gtd 45 min. 6 p.m. 888poker LIVE Barcelona Main Event Day 1A 550,000 Gtd 1,100 30K 45 min. May 31 6 p.m. 888poker LIVE Barcelona Main Event Day 1B 550,000 Gtd 1,100 30K 45 min. 9 p.m. The Mega Knockout (50 Bounty) 35,000 Gtd 155 20K 20 min. June 1 12 p.m. Super Satellite to Main Event Day 1C 110 8K 20 min. 3 p.m. 888poker LIVE Barcelona Main Event Day 1C 550,000 Gtd 1,100 30K 45 min. 6 p.m. Pot Limit Omaha 150 30K 25 min. June 2 3 p.m. 888poker LIVE Barcelona Main Event Day 2 550,000 Gtd 60 min. 4 p.m. The Whale 45,000 Gtd 333 20K 30 min. 7 p.m. Ladies Event 2,500 Gtd 220 15K 25 min. June 3 3 p.m. 888poker LIVE Barcelona Main Event Final Day 550,000 Gtd Qualify to the Main Event at 888poker 888poker is hosting $109 satellites for a 888poker LIVE Barcelona Main Event package valued at $2,050. But you don't even need to pay $109 to potentially win a package as the online poker room is hosting feeder tournaments starting a low as $0.01. The package winners will be jetting off to Spain armed with: 1,100/$1,250 entry to the 888poker LIVE Barcelona Main Event Three nights accommodation ($500) $300 for travel expenses 888poker LIVE kit You are going to need an 888poker account if you are to be in with a chance to win a $2,200 package for the 888Live Barcelona Main Event. Download 888poker via PokerNews and youll receive a free $88 bonus (20 in the United Kingdom) just for creating your account. Thanks to the special relationship will enjoy with 888poker, the online poker room will also match your first deposit up to $888 or more than double that is advertised on their site. Follow the partypoker LIVE MILLIONS North America Action Here at PokerNews May 09 2019 Matthew Pitt The Playground Poker Club in Montreal, Canada is gearing up to host the 2019 partypoker LIVE MILLIONS North America festival and PokerNews is joining them to bring you live coverage of three massive events. PokerNews live reporting team will be on the tournament floor bringing you all of the updates from the MILLIONS North America Main Event (May 21-26), the CA$10,300 High Roller (May 23-25), and the CA$25,300 Super High Roller (May 25-26). If last years festival is anything to go by, were in for a real treat. Taylor Black is the reigning MILLIONS North America champion having outlasted 1,953 players in last years Main Event. That tournament was a CA$5,300 buy-in with CA$10 million guaranteed with this latest edition costing CA$10,300 to enter and featuring a CA$5 million guarantee. The first of two CA$10,300 High Rollers at the previous MILLIONS North America saw David Eldridge top a field of 80 to bank CA$300,000 with the Czech Republics Michael Sklenicka netting CA$242,370 from the second CA$10,300 High Roller that attracted 126 entries. The reigning champion of the CA$25,300 Super High Roller is a player who wished to remain anonymous. It was a star-studded affair that drew in 47 entries and saw a final table house the likes of Niall Farrell, Chance Kornuth, Darren Elias, and runner-up Anthony Zinno. partypoker LIVE MILLIONS North America Schedule Date Time Tournament Buy-in Mon 13 May 7:00 p.m. Playground 200 Day 1A: CA$100K Gtd CA$220 Tue 14 May 7:00 p.m. Playground 200 Day 1B: CA$100K Gtd CA$220 Wed 15 May 12:00 p.m. Playground 200 Day 1C: CA$100K Gtd (Turbo) CA$220 7:00 p.m. Playground 200 Day 1D: CA$100K GTD CA$220 Thu 16 May 7:00 p.m. Playground 200 Day 2 Fri 17 May 12:00 p.m. Montreal Open Day 1A: CA$1M Gtd +15 Main Event seats CA$1,100 5:00 p.m. Montreal Open Day 1B: CA$1M Gtd +15 Main Event seats CA$1,100 7:00 p.m. Playground 200 Final Day Sat 18 May 12:00 p.m. Montreal Open Day 1C: CA$1M Gtd +15 Main Event seats CA$1,100 5:00 p.m. Montreal Open Day 1D: CA$1M Gtd +15 Main Event seats CA$1,100 Sun 19 May 12:00 p.m. Montreal Open Day 1E: CA$1M Gtd +15 Main Event seats CA$1,100 5:00 p.m. Montreal Open Day 1F: CA$1M Gtd +15 Main Event seats CA$1,100 6:00 p.m. Super High Roller Day 1 CA$25,300 Mon 20 May 10:00 a.m. Montreal Open Day 1A: CA$1M Gtd +15 Main Event seats (6-Max Turbo) CA$1,100 1:00 p.m. Super High Roller Final Day CA$25300 3:30 p.m. Montreal Open Day 2 Tue 21 May 12:00 p.m. MILLONS North America Day 1A: CA$5M Gtd CA$10,300 12:00 p.m. Montreal Open Final Day Wed 22 May 12:00 p.m. MILLONS North America Day 1B: CA$5M Gtd CA$10,300 12:00 p.m. 8 Max: CA$50K Gtd CA$550 Thu 23 May 12:00 p.m. MILLIONS North America Day 2 1:00 p.m. High Roller Day 1: CA$1M Gtd CA$10,300 Fri 24 May 11:00 a.m. Playground 1000 Day 1: CA$100K Gtd CA$1,100 12:00 p.m. MILLIONS North America Day 3 1:00 p.m. High Roller Day 2 CA$10,300 7:00 p.m. Big Bounty $500: CA$30K Gtd CA$660 Sat 25 May 12:00 p.m. MILLIONS North America Day 4 12:00 p.m. Playground 1000 Day 2 1:00 p.m. High Roller Final Day 6:00 p.m. Super High Roller Day 1 CA$25,300 7:00 p.m. Bounty $100 CA$40K Gtd CA$330 Sun 26 May 11:00 a.m. 6 Max: CA$50K Gtd CA$550 12:00 p.m. MILLIONS North America Final Day 1:00 p.m. Playground 1000 Final Day 1:00 p.m. Super High Roller Final Day 7:00 p.m. Pot Limit Omaha Bounty: CA$10K GTD CA$330 MILLIONS North America Promotions A bunch of great promotions are running for the MILLIONS North America Main Event. The first sees the first 100 players to buy into the Main Event using PP LIVE Dollars receive CA$1,000 cash expenses. At the time of writing, 50 such prizes remained so hurry if you want what is essentially a free CA$1,000. The second promotion revolves around finding the ultimate poker couple. Team partypokers Kristen Bicknell and her partner Alex Foxen are entering the MILLIONS North America Main Event. If you and a partner enter and perform better than Bicknell and Foxen, a 12,000 package to the upcoming MILLIONS Europe at Kings Resort, Rozvadov is awarded. You can read more about this promotion here. Bookmark Our Live Reporting Pages Bookmark our live reporting pages, so you do not miss any of the action from three of the most significant events taking place at the partypoker LIVE MILLIONS North America festival. The horrific incident happened in March 2018. (SWNS) A father drugged his family before he killed his wife and jumped off Beachy Head cliff with his sons in March 2018, an inquest has heard. The former construction worker Adelino Figueira de Faria, 57, stabbed his wife more than 60 times at their family home in Twickenham. The father then travelled 90 miles to Beachy Head in East Sussex where he walked off the cliff with his two sons, Claudio, 10, and Joaquin, 7. He had drugged his wife, Laura Cecilia Navarrete de Figueira, and their young sons with sleeping pills. The father left a suicide note explaining he had lost his faith in God and he apologised to his family for what he was about to do. The father and young boys walked off the Beachy Head cliff in East Sussex. (REUTERS) The parents of the Venezuelan family had been unsuccessful in finding work since they had moved to the UK seeking a better life. Detective Sergeant Matt Flynn said a son from the previous marriage of Adelinco received an email from his father stating he was committing suicide and officers attended the location at 6.04pm. DS Flynn said: The emails that had been sent apologise for what was being done and there was a note left on the table of the premises. Read more on Yahoo News Tributes pour in for big-hearted British soldier trampled to death by elephant during anti-poaching operation in Malawi London Bridge victims courageously attempted to fight off attackers armed with knives The note read: Im so sorry. I cannot let my children live any more in a world of despair, endless pain and suffering. There is no hope in this life. I cannot find God to get faith and hope. Delivering a verdict of suicide, Coroner Dr Sean Cummings said: I bear in mind DS Flynns evidence, particularly that Adelino was responsible for the murder some short time prior of his wife Laura Navarrete de Figueira and also had researched places and suicide methods online and had also constructed emails detailing that he was going to commit suicide and sending them to family members. I conclude therefore that Adelino Figueira de Faria died as a result of suicide. Watch the latest videos from Yahoo UK It was on March 28, 1979, that there was a partial meltdown at Three Mile Island nuclear reactor in Pennsylvania. It was the worst nuclear accident in the history of the United States but it was certainly not as vast or as serious compared to the ones in Chernobyl in Russia in 1989 and Fukushima in Japan in 2011 where many people lost their lives. Four decades have gone by and the owners Exelon Generation have finally decided to shut it down completely by September 30. Telegraph UK reports that the company was trying to convince lawmakers to grant subsidies. That would have helped to keep the facility alive but there was no positive outcome. Hence, the obvious decision was to close down. Kathleen Barron, an Exelon senior vice president, has said, "We don't see a path forward for policy changes before the June 1 fuel purchasing deadline for TMI." Forty years after the worst nuclear accident in the U.S., the remaining reactor at Three Mile Island in Pennsylvania is closing. https://t.co/shg811KjrD NPR (@NPR) May 9, 2019 Three Mile Island's a humanitarian issue The license of the energy company Three Mile Island is valid until 2034 but the meltdown has disturbed its plans. Therefore they gave advance notice regarding the shutdown. Bryan Hanson, another Exelon senior vice president, explains there was a thinking that in view of the value normally attached to various forms of clean energy, there would be support forthcoming from state policymakers. That, unfortunately, has not happened and it is difficult for the employees. It amounts to a humanitarian issue because many of them will be without any job. Infamous Three Mile Island nuclear plant will close https://t.co/HmqSAppcvK pic.twitter.com/YSRBfSF1Yn SFGate (@SFGate) May 8, 2019 Telegraph UK adds that nuclear facilities have always been under pressure because of the cost factor. Discuss this news on Eunomia Electricity generated from sources like natural gas are cheaper. Anyway, the partial meltdown at Three Mile Island was less serious than the ones in Chernobyl and Fukushima. Moreover, there were no casualties in TMI unlike Chernobyl and Fukushima but the fallout in the United States applied brakes on the construction of new facilities. There were concerns about the safety of Nuclear Power. Nuclear power is more costly According to NPR, the Three Mile Island nuclear power plant in South-central Pennsylvania is closing. Its owner, Exelon says the plant has been running at a loss for years. Incidentally, the nuclear industry has to compete with less expensive electricity generated from natural gas and Renewable Energy. The company wanted subsidies and argued that, in view of the focus on climate change and efforts to address it, the plant deserves compensation for the carbon-free electricity it produces. It seems that the argument found takers in states like Connecticut, Illinois, New Jersey, and New York but not in Pennsylvania. Here, the state's powerful natural gas industry opposed it and Exelon decided to close down the facilities. Those who are in favor of nuclear power in Pennsylvania have assured that they will support the cause of subsidies. Nuclear energy accounts for nearly 20 percent of the country's electricity. When the presidents of France and Italy laid a wreath at Leonardo da Vinci's tomb on May 2 to commemorate the 500th anniversary of his death, historians' questioning his renown in the same week became an ill-timed event. In their new Book, The Da Vinci Legacy Jean-Pierre Isbouts and Christopher Heath-Brown ask how Leonardo got to be a household name since, as they say, he died in relative obscurity in exile to France after being denounced for committing a capital offense with a teenage boy, Say what? That's not all that was said by The Legacy of Da Vinci authors. In an article they wrote for Artnet on the same day that the wreath was laid, they asked how it's possible that Mona Lisa and The Last Supper got to be so famous since both works had been so long held privately out of public view. The Last Supper was painted on a cloistered wall of the Convent of Santa Maria Delle Grazie in Milan and the portrait hung in the confines of the Fontainebleau Palace in France. Even after the French Revolution, Napoleon kept it in his bedroom. Mass marketing These historians' answer to their question doesn't have anything to do with the Old Master's mastery. The Last Supper and Mona Lisa got famous, they say, due to the rise of mass printing: We believe the Last Supper was the first work of art to enjoy broad distribution throughout Europe. For the next two centuries, Leonardos reputation was sustained by the continuing demand for copies of the Last Supper and the Mona Lisa. Opposition research It's hard to reconcile the view of Isbouts and Brown with that of another historian - Giorgio Vasari - who chronicled Da Vinci's life in the same century in which he lived. Discuss this news on Eunomia Rather than seeing him as an unsavory character who was kicked out of his country and died in obscurity, Vasari paid tribute to him like this: His name became so famous that not only was he esteemed during his lifetime, but his reputation endured and became even greater after his death. Reasons why Here's another possible reason for why Mona Lisa got to be so famous that in 2014 former director of the Louvre reported a whopping 80 percent of museum visitors come solely to see the Da Vinci portrait. As I see it, the popularity of the portrait has less to do with mass printing and more to do with the media attention when it was stolen from the Louvre in 1911 and recovered two years later. There were so many newspaper stories about the theft and recovery that Art News magazine saw fit to itemize the countless stories in the press, which the magazine concluded made the work the most famous painting in the world. Then in 2001, a book titled Becoming Mona Lisa: The Making of a Global Icon, art historian Donald Sassoon wrote that the fame of the painting stems from the steadfast discussion about it. The Da Vinci Legacy will keep the conversation going. When all the fall favorites have gone on hiatus, CBS has exciting dramas set with the return of drama Instinct, the final season premiere of Elementary, and the brand new adventure show Blood & Treasure. Holmes and Watson will be returning to New York after a stint consulting for Scotland Yard, while Dylan Reinhart returns to work solving cases with his detective partner. Blood & Treasure will spice up the summer with some action-adventure similar to that of Indiana Jones. Summer crime dramas return Elementary follows the modern day adventures of Sherlock Holmes (Jonny Lee Miller) as he works as a consultant for the New York Police under the lead of Captain Gregson (Aidan Quinn). Holmes works alongside ex-surgeon and sober companion Joan Watson (Lucy Liu) who later becomes his partner and closest friend. The duo has experienced several changes over the course of six seasons as they've taken on dangerous criminals and faced many challenges in their relationship. "Elementary" Season 6 left off with them facing their biggest challenge yet when Holmes took the blame for murder to protect Watson and fled to England. Watson chose to stay with Holmes and the two became consultants for Scotland Yard. Season 7 will pick up with the two still in London and unable to return to New York, thanks to Odin Reichenbach, who lies in wait. When a friend is gravely injured, they're forced to decide if they're willing to risk Holmes possibly being imprisoned to return. CBS has released a few photos to tease what's in store from the premiere, which focuses on Holmes and Watson, who have reunited with Detective Bell, the three at a crime scene, and some investigative work. The final season will premiere on May 23 and will consist of 13 episodes. Instinct returns on June 16 and will be keeping its Sunday night time slot it had during season one. Discuss this news on Eunomia The crime drama follows Dr. Dylan Reinhart as he works as a consultant for the NYPD alongside Detective Lizzie Needham and is based on the book "Murder Games" by James Patterson. Dylan is an author, professor, and is ex-CIA with a special skill to understand the human psyche which helps Lizzie solve some unusual cases. "Instinct" stars Alan Cumming as Dylan, Bojana Novakovic as Lizzie, with Daniel Ings as Dylan's husband Andy, Naveen Andrews as Dylan's old friend Julian, and Sharon Leal as Lizzie's lieutenant, Jasmine Gooden. The second season premiere picks up with Dylan and Lizzie taking up a case to find the Sleeping Beauty Killer after Dylan is officially reinstated. New adventure series New summer show Blood & Treasure stars Matt Barr and Sofia Pernas and will follow an antiquities dealer and an art thief as they join forces to chase after a known thief/terrorist. Danny McNamara is an antiquities dealer who is also a former FBI agent, while Lexi Vaziri is an art thief who is haunted by the death of her father which she blames Danny for. The two are drawn together after Danny's mentor Dr. Anna Castillo is kidnapped by Karim Farouk. Their adventures will also find them meeting and working with a variety of people, including arms dealer Aiden Shaw, Simon Hardwick, who is an expert in getting pilfered artifacts, and Danny's childhood friend Father Chuck. The two will also come up against an Interpol agent who is also after Karim and may not necessarily agree with their tactics. Adding to their adventure is a 2,000-year-old battle described in the press release as being a battle for the cradle of civilization. "Blood & Treasure" will begin on May 21 with a two-hour premiere at 9 ET/PT and then it will move to its regular time at 10 ET/PT on May 28. Blockchain, AI and 5G are transforming technology and driving innovation at an accelerated pace. Safe and faster connections are the need of the hour for businesses and the day-to-day life of consumers. In this scenario, Jessica Rosenworcel believes that blockchain and AI will give the US an edge over its ultimate tech rival China in next-generation wireless networking. Who is Jessica Rosenworcel and what's her view regarding blockchain and 5G? Jessica Rosenworcel is an American attorney and commissioner at US Federal communications Commission. Technology Review reported that speaking at an event organized by MIT Media Lab's Digital Currency Initiative, Rosenworcel said machine learning will help devices and 5G networks to share and negotiate over the wireless spectrum. Blockchain and AI technology would allow devices to use different frequencies within the wireless spectrum more flexibly and dynamically which will enable billions of devices to connect to 5G networks at once. She added that currently the spectrum is divided up for different uses. Although this model allows for avoiding interference, it's not the most efficient way to use airwaves. What is 5G and how does it operate? 5G (short for fifth-generation) is a commonly used term for advanced wireless systems that allow devices to connect in a variety of ways over the wireless spectrum. The 5G network operates with a speed of up to 20 gigabytes per second which should allow smartphones to run high-quality virtual-reality applications and download movies in seconds. With greater capacity, 5G should also let more devices to connect to the internet at once. What are the concerns of the US about 5G? The White House seems deeply concerned that it might lose its position as a tech leader in 5G, which will have severe consequences on its economy as well. According to The Diplomat, this worry has also caused scrutiny of Huawei by the US, which is one of China's most prominent companies. Discuss this news on Eunomia Regarding 5G, Rosenworcel expressed her worry at an MIT event, "I am concerned that we are not positioned to lead." But she added that with the help of blockchain and AI, the US could stay competitive with China in wireless technology. "I don't think of it as immediate future of wireless, but it might be the far future," she says. Interest is growing all around the world to use Artificial Intelligence to help advance wireless technologies, but no one has yet made a breakthrough in 5G networks. Not everyone agrees with Rosenworcel's opinion about the use of AI in 5G. Muriel Medard who is a professor of electrical engineering at MIT believes that more is needed than just finding new ways to manage the spectrum using blockchain or AI. She emphasized 'coding' schemes which determine how bundles of information get routed. She said using blockchain may be fundamentally worthwhile but there is a need for new technology too. Earlier this week, David and I studied a fabulous text from the Hasidic rabbi known as the Kedushat Levi (R' Levi Yitzchak of Berditchev), to whom I was first introduced by R' Elliot Ginsburg, my teacher of Hasidut in rabbinical school. It's a short commentary on this week's Torah portion, Korach, and it packs a powerful punch. (Read it in the original Hebrew at Sefaria.) The text riffs off of a short phrase in Numbers 18:19, "It is an eternal covenant of salt." Levi Yitzchak explains that this was said after the deeds of Korach. (For a reminder of what those were, see my post at My Jewish Learning, A Failed Rebellion.) Korach wanted everyone, including himself, to be priests. He didn't want to be a Levite, which was his own ancestral tribe -- he wanted to be a Kohen (a higher-level priest), and he wanted everyone to be kohanim. Here's where Levi Yitzchak makes an interpretive leap: he says the kohanim / priests represent the divine attribute of / chesed (lovingkindness), whereas the levi'im / Levites represent the divine attribute of / din (justice) -- sometimes called gevurah, the quality of boundaries and strength. Here's the problem with the Korachite rebellion: in wanting everyone to represent chesed, Korach leaves no room for din. He wanted everyone to be pure chesed, but in truth (says Levi Yitzchak), the world needs judgment and justice too. The world needs gevurah: boundaries, strength, a strong container. Ramban (also known as Nachmanides) understands salt as a combination of fire and water, which is to say, justice and lovingkindness. He says it's the combination of those two, the appropriate balance of those two, which sustains all the worlds. Levi Yitzchak teaches that the covenant of salt (representing the balance of chesed and din) came as a response to Korach's actions, in order to remind us of what's wrong with Korach's imbalanced view that everyone should embody only chesed. What the world needs is the appropriate balance of chesed and din, lovingkindness and justice. Reading this passage, I marvel at how contemporary and real it feels. I've been in contexts where people want everyone and everything to be all-chesed-all-the-time, and they are not healthy contexts by any stretch of the imagination. Love that flows without boundaries is a flood, destructive and damaging. When we over-privilege chesed at the expense of gevurah, there are no appropriate roles or boundaries... and a community in which roles and boundaries are not honored, in which gevurah is not honored, is a community that will inevitably be rife with ethical violations and abuse. Levi Yitzchak skewers the Korachite perspective that says everyone should express only lovingkindness. John Lennon may have written a catchy tune with the refrain "all you need is love," but on a spiritual level, he was wrong. The world needs judgment, discernment, and justice every bit as much as it needs unbridled or unbounded love -- indeed, as Ramban notes, a world that has only one half of that critical binary cannot endure. This is true not only on a macro level but also a micro level. Every human being is a world. Every one of us contains both of these qualities and more. Maybe you recognize chesed and gevurah as the first two qualities we remind ourselves to cultivate as we count the Omer each year. Every human being needs a healthy balance of all of the qualities that we share with our Creator: lovingkindness and boundaried-strength and balance and endurance and all the rest. A person who seeks to be only chesed will inevitably be imbalanced, and will wind up doing damage not only to himself but to their whole community -- as Korach did. A person who insists that chesed is the goal in and of itself (rather than as part of a healthy and balanced palette of qualities) will be naturally inclined toward spiritual bypassing, using feel-good spiritual language to mask deep-rooted avoidance of life's complexities. The same will be true in a community that privileges chesed over a healthy balance of qualities. Such a community will inevitably be not ethical, not healthy, and not safe. The wisdom offered this week by Levi Yitzchak and Ramban is still relevant in our day: what we need, as individuals and communities, is the right balance of chesed and gevurah. The right balance of love and boundaries, in which loving flow is guided and guarded by ethics and justice. The right balance of all of the sefirot, all of the qualities that we and God share. May it be so in all of our communities, and in all of our hearts, speedily and soon. By Azernews Currently, political relations between Azerbaijan and Georgia are at the highest level, cooperation has reached a strategic level, and the relations are based on the principles of strong friendship and mutual respect. Meeting between the members of the working group on Azerbaijan-Georgia interparliamentary relations and the delegation of the Georgia-Azerbaijan parliamentary friendship group, which is on a visit to Baku, has been held in the Azerbaijani parliament. The delegation was led by the Vice-Speaker of the Georgian Parliament Zviad Dzidziguri. At the meeting, Aflatun Amashov, head of the working group, noted that during the period of independence, relations between Azerbaijan and Georgia have been showing positive dynamics and added that the official meetings and bilateral visits between the two countries give positive results. Stressing the importance of bilateral cooperation within international organizations, Amashov said that interparliamentary relations play vital role in the development of multisectoral cooperation between Azerbaijan and Georgia. In turn, Dzidziguri stated that Georgia is interested in strengthening ties with Azerbaijan and emphasized that the Georgian side always supports cooperation in different spheres, such as trade, tourism and industry. During the meeting, Azerbaijani MPs Ganira Pashayeva, Rasim Musabayov and Flora Karimova expressed deep concern over the erection of a monument in Georgia to separatist and terrorist Mikhail Avagyan, who was involved in the killings of civilians during the Armenia-Azerbaijan Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. The sides also exchanged views on a number of issues in terms of the further development of bilateral relations. Both Azerbaijan and Georgia restored their independence in 1991 and diplomatic ties were established between them on November 18, 1992. On October 10, 1997, Azerbaijan and Georgia became two of the four founding members of the GUAM Organization for Democracy and Economic Development. The countries broadly cooperate in regional energy development, transportation and economic partnership projects such as Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan pipeline, Kars-Tbilisi-Baku railway, TRACECA, BSEC, etc. Regional military and security alliance of Georgia and Azerbaijan develops along NATO's Partnership for Peace Program and the common protection of Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan pipeline with Turkey. Vietnamese businesses have been warned of being taken over by foreign conglomerates. Once dominating the domestic market, toothpaste brand Da Lan, after the sale to Colgate in 1995, officially disappeared from the market. Two years later, when Unilever came to Vietnam, P/S, another famous toothpaste brand, was no longer Vietnamese. More takeover deals occurred. Many Vietnamese enterprises developed their brands in the domestic market amid the presence of foreign players, but they finally had to sell to foreign partners. Diana, which once held 30 percent of paper diapers and 40 percent of toilet paper market share, and led the woman- and baby-care product market, in 2011 sold 95 percent of shares to Unicharm from Japan for $184 million. With the deal, Diana officially became a foreign brand. Also in 2011, X-Men, the shampoo product for men, was sold to Marico, a cosmetics group from India. More takeover deals occurred. Many Vietnamese enterprises developed their brands in the domestic market amid the presence of foreign players, but they finally had to sell to foreign partners. In 2003, Pho 24 chain turned up in the domestic market. The owner of the brand, Ly Quy Trung, then stated that Pho 24 would become internationally known. However, in 2011, the brand was transferred to Viet Thai Quoc Te, which owned Highlands Coffee which later transferred 50 percent of shares to Jollibee from the Philippines, putting an end to Trungs dream of internationalizing Vietnamese traditional pho. The sale of Sabeco, the best known Vietnamese beer brand, to Thai is the best known deal. In 2017, the Thai billionaire Charoen Sirivadhanabhakdi spent $5 billion to acquire 54 percent of Sabeco shares. Prior to that, Carlsberg bought the capital contribution by Vietnamese partner in Huda Beer joint venture and turned it into a 100 percent foreign owned brewery. This was also the way Carlsberg acquired a controlling stake in many other brewers. Vietnam is one of the top beer consumption markets in the world with 4 billion liters of beer consumed in 2016, representing a year-on-year increase of 6 percent. Beer consumption per capita is nearly 43 liters last year. However, experts fear that tVietnams beer industry may be swallowed by foreigners. Habeco is undergoing the states divestment process, while sources said Carlsberg is coming closer to an agreement of acquiring more Habecos shares. The same situation can be seen in the beverage sector. Tribeco, a brand well known to Saigonese, was swallowed by Uni-President. Halico, the Vietnamese biggest liquor producer, has also sold 45 percent of shares to Diageo from the UK, while Wonderfarm has fallen into the hands of Kirin Holdings from Japan. RELATED NEWS Once-famous brands struggle for revival Go pottery, a brand of the Cham Ha Dung The first shrimp trading floor has been put into operation which allows buyers and sellers to conduct transactions directly, without intermediaries. However, no one believes the model will succeed. At present, farmers mostly sell shrimp to merchants or collection agents who will re-sell to processing companies and exporters. Merchants come to shrimp ponds, collect shrimp samples, assess the quality, fix prices and set the time of harvesting. Processing companies do not have manpower to come directly to shrimp ponds to collect materials, while farmers dont want to sell shrimp directly to processors because they dont know how the buyers assess their products. If transactions between farmers and processors dont succeed, farmers cannot bring the harvested shrimp back to the ponds. The inborn problem of the trading model is that farmers cannot connect directly with those who have demand. As a result, farmers have to sell shrimp at low prices, while exporters cannot find shrimp supplies to gather materials to fulfill export contracts. The inborn problem of the trading model is that farmers cannot connect directly with those who have demand. As a result, farmers have to sell shrimp at low prices, while exporters cannot find shrimp supplies to gather materials to fulfill export contracts. Nguyen Manh Trieu, deputy chair of Cuu Long Technology and Investment JSC, which is running the first shrimp trading floor, affirmed that the trading floor will settle the existing problems. Farmers now can refer to the information about the buy/sell prices of successful transactions before placing orders and place orders at any time. The shrimp trading floor ensures high liquidity because information about the sale is provided nationwide, he said. However, farmers are reluctant to use the new trading method. How will the trading floor replace the works being undertaken by merchants? Will the trading floor send officers to shrimp ponds to collect samples and assess quality? What will happen if the shrimp quality is not as high as declared? said Chau Trung Truc, director of Doan Ket Seafood Cooperative in Ca Mau province. Tried said when putting shrimp for sale on the trading floor, sellers will have to provide information about product quality and buyers will come to examine the quality. If buyers discover that the declared quality is not the same as the quality of products in reality, they will have the right to cancel contracts and the credit rating of sellers will be lowered, Trieu replied. However, Trieus explanation cannot satisfy businesses. Director of a shrimp export company said his company doesnt have enough workers to send to localities to examine the quality of shrimp before bringing shrimp to processing workshops. The work is now undertaken by merchants. Nguyen Quang BInh, director of CTA, also said both buyers and sellers face high risks. The trading scheme could be effective to buyers and sellers who are near each other, but will be a problem if the seller is in Nha Trang and buyer in Ca Mau, he commented. RELATED NEWS Vietnams shrimp farming industry undergoing reshuffle Ca Mau to expand sustainable shrimp farming models Thanh Lich Starting from June 1, Viet Nam could export only verified legal timber products to the EU markets as the Voluntary Partnership Agreement on Forest Law Enforcement, Governance and Trade (VPA/FLECT) would officially enter into force. Farmers in the northern province of Lai Chau check on trees in a local forest. Viet Nam needs to develop a timber legality assurance system to ensure its exports of timber and timber products come from legal sources. The Delegation of the EU to Viet Nam and Viet Nam Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development yesterday announced the completion of the process of approval and ratification of VPA/FLECT. According to Nguyen Quoc Tri, Director of the Viet Nam Administration of Forestry, the implementation of the VPA/FLECT marked the beginning of a joint commitment of the EU and Viet Nam to work together to address illegal logging and associated trade. To implement the VPA/ FLEGT, Viet Nam would develop a timber legality assurance system (VNTLAS) to ensure that its exports of timber and timber products come from legal sources, including systems to verify that Vietnamese businesses were only importing timber that had been legally harvested and traded in accordance with the relevant legislation in the country of harvest. This meant that illegally harvested timber, as well as those businesses trading with it, would not be a part of supply chains regulated by the timber legality assurance system that Viet Nam was putting in place. To implement the agreement, Viet Nam was to continue to adopt new legislation in order to harmonise the agreements commitments, including the preparation of a decree on the VNTLAS which was expected to be promulgated by the end of 2019. The two sides also agreed to establish a joint implementation committee (JIC) to oversee how the provisions of the agreement were put into practice. JIC would also facilitate dialogue and exchange of information between the both sides. The agreement was fully implemented when the FLEGT licensing scheme started. At that time, each shipment of timber and timber products from Viet Nam exported to the EU would be accompanied by a FLEGT license. FLEGT licensing would provide certainty of meeting the requirements of the EU Timber Regulation, which prohibited the placing of illegal timber on the EU market. Ha Cong Tuan, Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, in addition to the variety of social, economic and environmental benefits associated with better management of the forestry sector in Viet Nam, FLEGT licensing would contribute to increase the credibility of Viet Nams timber processing industry not only in the EU but also in other export markets, which were increasingly in demand for legal timber. The VPA/FLECT sends a strong signal on Viet Nam's and the EU's commitment towards front loading the implementation of the 'Trade and Sustainable Development' Chapter of the EVFTA, which includes provisions on sustainable forest management and trade in forest products, Tuan said. According to head of the EU Delegation to Viet Nam Ambassador Bruno Angelet, Viet Nam was the second country in Asia signed VPA/FLECT with the EU, after Indonesia. He said that Viet Nams export of timber products to the EU was expected to see strong growth when the agreement entered into force, adding that the EU would continue to provide supports to Viet Nam in developing VNTLAS and FLECT licensing. The both sides launched the VPA/FLEGT negotiation in October 2010 and started the negotiation process from November 2011. Over more than six years, on 19 October 2018, in Brussels, the agreement was signed. Viet Nam was exporting timber products to 120 countries and territories, including major markets such as the EU, the US, Japan, China, South Korea and Australia. In 2018, Viet Nams export of wood and timber products reached a record value of US$9.3 billion, $900 million of which was to the EU markets. VNS A Week of Vietnamese Goods in Thailand will be held in from September 18-22 at Central World, Bangkoks biggest shopping mall. Nick Reitmeier, Vice Executive President of Foothalls International Food & Alcohol Buying at Central Food Retail Co, Ltd. under Central Group, Thailand addresses the conference Speaking at a conference in Ho Chi Minh City on May 7, Nick Reitmeier, Vice Executive President of Foothalls International Food & Alcohol Buying at Central Food Retail Co, Ltd. under Central Group, Thailand, said the annual event aims to give Vietnamese firms a chance to explore the demand of local consumers, thus promoting their products and increasing export to Thailand. He said Vietnam has a lot of high quality products, but there is a lack of knowledge about these products in Thailand, as well as brand building from Vietnamese businesses, he said. He said Vietnamese businesses must thoroughly research the Thai market and understand that famous brands in Vietnam may not have the same popularity in Thailand. Vietnam exports many high-quality raw materials for foreign businesses, but Vietnamese branded products are not well-known, he noted. Local businesses should differentiate themselves from domestic brands in Thailand, communicating their high quality to Thai consumers and paying attention to package design, he added. During the conference, more than 120 enterprises of Ho Chi Minh City learned about standards for goods sold in international distribution and import systems of Thailand. At the event, many enterprises said that to enter Thai supermarkets, businesses must meet many strict regulations from legal framework of the Thai government to different regulations of distributors. At the same time, businesses must continuously modernise the production process to improve their products quality and reduce costs to maintain competitiveness, they said. According to the Investment and Trade Promotion Centre (ITPC), various promotion activities have been held to help Vietnamese firms access modern distribution channels, meet strict requirements of markets and introduce their products to consumers in different countries.-VNA The countrys big potential in IT and large smartphone penetration are the key enablers for Vietnam to develop its digital economy. However, a national strategy for 4.0 and sturdy policies in favour of the business community to apply IT solutions is in an urgent need. Vietnams Industry 4.0 strategy will need a completed legal framework At the Vietnam Private Sector Economic Forum 2019 held last week in Hanoi, one of the biggest questions raised was whether Vietnam is now lagging behind the global digital economic waves created by Industry 4.0. How will the Vietnamese economy develop in the future without riding the global digital waves hitting the country? asked Nguyen Trung Chinh, chairman of IT firm CMC Corporation. How will the country seize the vast opportunities given by Industry 4.0 to develop its digital economy to reach into its own immense potential? Digital economy refers to an economy that is based on digital computing technologies. According to Bui Quang Ngoc, vice chairman of IT giant FPT Group, over the past few years there have been almost no specific policies and actions for developing a digital economy in Vietnam. For example, in the public administration, programmes on e-government, e-tourism or e-healthcare have failed to be implemented effectively, Ngoc said. A legal framework on applying IT or developing smart solutions has not been implemented either. There has been a gap between policy and action, and while the concept of 4.0 has been widely talked about, few actions have been made even as the country is bursting with opportunities to develop a digital economy. GREAT OPPORTUNITIES At the forum, Deputy Minister of Planning and Investment Vu Dai Thang said that the digital economy is surging in Vietnam, creating major changes in business methods. Vietnam has great opportunities to develop a digital economy because it has immense potential, Thang said. He cited a recent survey by Google and Singapores Temasek valuing Vietnams digital market at $3 billion in 2015 and $9 billion in 2018, and estimated it to rise to $30 billion by 2025. Meanwhile, a recent study by Data 61, Australias data innovation network, showed that Vietnams GDP could rise by an additional $162 billion within 20 years if Vietnam succeeded in digital transformation. According to the Asia Internet Coalition (AIC), with a population of nearly 100 million people, Vietnam is among the few nations in Southeast Asia with the highest speed of digital transformation. Currently, Vietnam has more than 136 million mobile phone subscribers and 54.2 per cent of the population are connected to broad-band wire-based Internet. Vietnam is also one of 17 nations in the world with the biggest number of Internet users. The Vietnamese government aims to turn the country into one of the 10 largest nations in the world producing software and digital content. We think this target will be easily reached thanks to Vietnams strong telecommunications industry, said Do Khanh Ly, AIC representative in Hanoi. Vietnams online advertising market and e-commerce are also developing strongly. According to the Vietnam E-Commerce Association, the countrys e-commerce market is estimated to be over $5 billion now and can double over the next four years, Ly said. The impact of the Internet on the economy is estimated to be equivalent to 2-3 per cent of the GDP, which may increase to 40-50 per cent in the future. At a recent workshop on unlocking the full potential of Vietnams digital economy in Hanoi, Quint Simon, head of Public Policy in Southeast Asia at Amazon Web Services (AWS), surprised hundreds of business leaders and experts by announcing that Vietnam is one of the nations with the fastest growth of 64 per cent per annum in spending on cloud computing. AWS is a subsidiary of Amazon.com that provides on-demand cloud computing platforms to individuals, companies, and governments. I believe that in the near future Vietnam will develop a digital economy successfully. Cloud computing is a favourite in Vietnam, with many enterprises using it, Simon said, explaining that with the cloud, businesses can completely protect their information and prevent it from being stolen. For example, Amanotes, a fast-growing app publisher, currently has hundreds of millions of users. It is typical of Vietnamese businesses with cloud computing, Simon continued. In another case, Masan is also using cloud to manage its stores in Vietnam. It has been a big trend that many Vietnamese agencies and enterprises are seeking our support in cloud applications. NATIONAL STRATEGY FOR 4.0 Deputy Minister Thang said that in order for Vietnam to seize opportunities and facilitate enterprises to benefit from Industry 4.0, the Ministry of Planning and Investment (MPI) is compiling a national strategy on Industry 4.0, which will clarify what the digital economy means, with specific tasks for ministries and agencies. The strategys prime targets are to grab opportunities arising from Industry 4.0, increase the countrys GDP and employment, and attract more high-quality foreign direct investment. With this strategy, Vietnam stands ready to receive new technologies. However, the country will have to adapt many policies to Industry 4.0, said Nguyen Thi Tue Anh, vice head of the MPIs Central Institute for Economic Management (CIEM) which is drafting the strategy. Under the CIEMs study on the draft, Industry 4.0 would likely raise Vietnams GDP by $28.5-62.1 billion, equivalent to a rise of 7-16 per cent, from now to 2030. The benefits for Vietnam will be huge, far higher than those from the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership, which will increase Vietnams GDP by 1.32 per cent by 2035, said Dang Quang Vinh, deputy chief of the CIEMs Department of Business Environment and Competitiveness. Besides, Vietnam will be able to generate 1.3-3.1 million new jobs by 2030 thanks to Industry 4.0, said Vinh, who is one of the drafters of the strategy. However, these benefits will only materialise if we have more sturdy policies in favour of the business community. According to the CIEM, if medium-level technologies are applied, Vietnams Industry 4.0 strategy will likely enable the country to see strong growth in many key economic sectors by 2030 such as manufacturing (16 per cent), wholesale and retail (20 per cent or $9.5 billion), agro-forestry-fishery (12 per cent or $6 billion), supply of electricity, gas, and air conditioning (23 per cent), and finance-banking-insurance (14 per cent or $3.5 billion). For example, the manufacturing sector will grow by an additional $7-14 billion based on new technology applications, while the communications and industry sector will climb 77 per cent, or an additional $2.5 billion compared to the scenario where the country fails to follow Industry 4.0. According to the CIEM, new industries arising from Industry 4.0 will be the key growth propellants for Vietnam, such as the Internet of Things and media. They will also support other sectors by raising their competitiveness, revenue, and developing new products and services. The new industries will include e-commerce ($40 billion in revenue by 2030), Artificial Intelligence ($420 million), data analysis ($730 million), cloud computing ($2.2 billion), ride-hailing ($2.2 billion), and fintech ($1.5 billion). Currently, many nations have been developing their Fourth Industrial Revolution strategies, such as Made in China 2025; Japan Resuscitation Strategy; Malaysias My-i4.0; Singapores 23 plans on digital transformation; Indias Smart City Mission and Industry 4.0 Centre; Indonesias Making Indonesia 4.0; and Thailand 4.0. Industry 4.0 offers great opportunities to Vietnam without which, the country will continue lagging behind other nations, said the CIEM study. Taking advantage of Industry 4.0 is the shortest way for Vietnam to turn itself into a modern and affluent nation, and develop into a modern industrial nation in the shortest time. Thus, the country needs to mobilise all necessary resources to implement its Industry 4.0 strategy. A PROPER LEGAL FRAMEWORK At the Vietnam Private Sector Economic Forum 2019 last week, CIEM deputy director Nguyen Duc Hieu said that it would be difficult to develop a sturdy legal framework to regulate activities related to the digital economy. For example, if an unmanned car causes an accident, who will be largely responsible? Is it the car, the software owner, the car owner or even road designers? We will have to have suitable laws for such cases, Hieu said. According to Minister of Information and Communications Nguyen Manh Hung, several key foundations need to be developed to create an effective digital economy in Vietnam. When we dare to accept new things, new technologies and global talent will come to Vietnam and new industries will appear, Hung said. Then Vietnam will be able to create digital products that can be exported. However, if we dare to accept new things but only follow other nations, we will not be able to create many added-value products, Hung continued. According to him, the digital economy in Vietnam must be supported by a good ICT infrastructure characterised by 5G technology and each person in the country owning a smartphone. Second, we need to have good policies to spur digital economy and technology. Internet in Vietnam must be globally competitive so that Vietnamese people will not go overseas to establish their enterprises any longer and more foreign enterprises will come to Vietnam to do business, he said. Third, the government needs to develop an initial market for IT enterprises by spending more on IT products and e-government, Hung added. Finally, human resources training needs a boost in foreign languages and IT education in schools and universities. VIR Vietnam is working towards creating one million private businesses next year. In order to reach this goal, the government will place a major focus on removing current obstructions undermining their competitiveness. Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc (second from right) takes a look at the new VinFast car at the Vietnam Private Sector Economic Forum 2019 Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc, in his speech at last weeks Vietnam Private Sector Economic Forum 2019 in Hanoi, impressed more than 2,500 entrepreneurs in the National Convention Centre by appealing to the consolidation of confidence among people, privately-owned enterprises (POEs), and the government via a healthy, fair, and transparent business climate. We will continue creating the best conditions, resources, and opportunities to the private sector to develop further, with the keywords of creating equality, encouragement, being protected, and offering opportunities, PM Phuc stressed. Referring to equality, the prime minister wishes to see that the private sector is equally treated before the law and in competition and allocation of resources with other economic sectors. He also wants POE assets to be protected, with freedom in business given to them under the law. At the same time, PM Phuc asked that POEs, especially those with social responsibility, are given encouragement by the government, while also being afforded opportunities in access to resources and technologies. It is expected that over the next few days, the government will release a resolution on developing the private sector in Vietnam. Current government policy is to build up multi-sectoral economy, in which the private sector plays an important part. The sector is creating 45 per cent of GDP and 30 per cent of state budget, and using 85 per cent of Vietnams labour forces. Phung Quoc Hien, Vice Chairman of the National Assembly, told the forum that with the sector growing rapidly over recent years, the National Assembly and the government will fuel their development with new policies which can help them out of difficulties. All the new policies are in line with Resolution No.10-NQ/TW of the fifth plenary of the 12th Party Central Committee in June 2017, which defines the private sector as an important impetus of Vietnams economy, Hien said. According to him, the National Assembly and the government are revising laws on local government organisation, enterprises, investment, land, securities, and intellectual property. They will be revised this year so that obstructions of enterprises and investors will be removed. Enterprises will find it more favourable to join and leave the market, with lower costs, Hien said. For example, the Law on Investment will be revised, in which the definition of business conditions must be clarified so that the concept can be distinguished from technical standards for business. Over recent years, sub-licences and the vague definition of business conditions have made it difficult for localities to attract more investment, according to the Ministry of Planning and Investment (MPI). A SPECTACULAR SURGE The resolution of the fifth plenum of the 12th Party Central Committee affirmed the need to promote the private sector to be an important propellant of Vietnams socialist-oriented market economy. This is an important milestone given that private businesses experienced volatile growth in the past. The resolution aims at one million active POEs in 2020, 1.5 million in 2025, and two million in 2030. It also sets targets of the private sector contributing 50 per cent of GDP in 2020, 55 per cent in 2025, and 60-65 per cent in 2030. In the pre-1986 command-based economy, POEs were not officially recognised. In 1986 the doi moi policy was launched, under which the private sector was officially recognised as part of the economy. Gradually, the sector was broadened. Subsequently, the revised Law on Enterprises 2014 has triggered a boom in the development of POEs in Vietnam. According to the MPI, the number of active POEs rose from 324,700 in 2011 to 561,000 in 2017, and then 715,000 as of August 2018. Last year saw the establishment of 131,275 enterprises registered at $64.26 billion, up 3.5 per cent in the number of enterprises and 14.1 per cent in capital, as compared to 2017. Alongside that, operating enterprises increased their capital by an additional $104.7 billion. Also, over 34,000 enterprises resumed operation, up 28.6 per cent on-year. In the first four months of 2019 the economy saw a record four-month number of over 43,300 newly-established enterprises, registered with $23.6 billion, up 4.9 per cent in the number of enterprises and 31.7 per cent in capital, as compared to the same period last year. Moreover, operating enterprises also increased their capital by another $37.9 billion. Besides, since early 2019, nearly 17,500 enterprises have resumed operation, up 52.6 per cent on-year. Total investment ratio by POEs in the economys total development investment has continued to climb, from 38.7 per cent in 2015 to 43.3 per cent last year. The private sector has contributed remarkably to GDP, at 43.22 per cent in 2015 and 45 per cent last year. It also holds 30 per cent of Vietnams industrial production value, nearly 80 per cent of total retail and service revenue, and 64 per cent of total transported goods. Thus, growth and expansion of the private sector has contributed tremendously to the economic achievements in Vietnam over the last decade, said PM Phuc. DISCRIMINATION IN TREATMENT Dinh Ngoc Lam, director of a cocoa production firm and farm in the Central Highlands, told VIR that it took years for his company to get hundreds of signatures from a range of state officers, ministries, agencies, localities, districts, and communes for a plot of land used for planting cocoa trees. Its a waste of time and money. I had lost a lot of money before being able to put our company into operation, with our investment certificate granted months after I had already met all necessary conditions, Lam said. Despite the governments efforts to cut down and simplify administrative procedures, enterprises like ours are still suffering from these complicated procedures. Meanwhile, another big investor with a forestry project nearby found it quite easy to obtain an investment certificate, which was granted within just a few days, he said. According to a recent survey by the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry, POEs remained the most disadvantaged group. In 2016, more than 38 per cent of businesses claimed that the favouritism of provincial authorities toward state-owned enterprises (SOEs) caused difficulties to their firms business operation, up 6 per cent against 2013. More than 42 per cent of businesses agreed with the statement that the provincial authorities seem to prioritise foreign direct investment attraction to domestic private sector development, up 14 per cent against 2013. Le Duy Binh, an economist at development consultant and policy analyst Economica Vietnam, said that the governments past economic strategies to assign a leading role to SOEs has held back POEs from fully exploiting opportunities of global integration. The government has sheltered SOEs from competition through preferential access to resources and restrictions on market access for POEs State economic groups were granted preferential treatment in access to land, export quotas, credit, and government procurement contracts including favourable tax rates, Binh added. SEEKING MORE INCENTIVES Vu Duc Giang, chairman of the Vietnam Textile and Apparel Association, told the forum that the local garment and textile industry will likely earn an export turnover of $40 billion this year, up from $35 billion last year, and even $100 billion by 2035. But amid fierce competition from textile and garment producing nations, how can the Vietnamese textile and garment industry develop and attain more profit? We need a new impetus for the industry to develop further, he said. One solution involves revisions of the value-added tax policy for textile and garment firms expanded projects, in order for the industry to encourage more investment into the sector. Vo Quang Hue, deputy CEO of Vingroup, proposed that the government create more incentives for POEs. Policies in encouraging investors to fund high technology and supporting industries must be created, Hue said. Experiences from our co-operation with foreign partners show that these policies are quite necessary. Meanwhile, Truong Gia Binh, head of the Board on Private Economic Development Research under the prime ministers Council for Administrative Reform Consultancy, proposed that the government assign tasks to POEs. The task must be big. For example, POEs can construct the north-south high-speed railway or Long Thanh International Airport. If the government assigns POEs to implement these projects, the time for completion may be less than 10 years, not 30 years. According to MPI Minister Nguyen Chi Dung, the government should take more drastic action to spur on the development of POEs. The northeastern province of Quang Ninh has lured many big private enterprises for projects, including Van Don Airport. This is a strong indication of the capacity of Vietnamese enterprises, he said. It is the governments mission to develop ecosystems and support the private sector in the course of applying advanced technology in production. I think this is the right way for Vietnamese enterprises to learn and reach par with their foreign peers. VIR Chairman of the National Council (Upper House) of Bhutan Tashi Dorji will pay an official visit to Vietnam from May 11-14, the Vietnamese National Assemblys Committee for External Affairs has announced. Chairman of the National Council (Upper House) of Bhutan Tashi Dorji The visit is made at the invitation of NA Chairwoman Nguyen Thi Kim Ngan, the committee said. Vietnam and Bhutan officially established diplomatic ties on January 19, 2012. The two countries have boasted sound friendship with the regular exchange of congratulatory messages between leaders on the occasion of big events. Vietnam mainly exports tractors and wood furniture to Bhutan. Meanwhile, the AA Corporation of Vietnam and the AdrukA company of Bhutan have jointly invested in a wood furniture manufacturing project in the latter country since 2011. More than 1,430 Vietnamese tourists visited Bhutan in 2018, according to the latters Tourism Council. Bhutan is selective in establishing relations with other countries. So far, it has set up diplomatic ties with only 53 nations.VNA Deputy Minister of Defence Sen. Lt. Gen. Nguyen Chi Vinh is leading a delegation from the ministry on an official visit to Cuba from May 4 to 8. Vietnam, Cuba share experience in policymaking The two ministries signed minutes on implementing a dossier on the 60-year history of the Vietnam-Cuba defence partnership. VNA/VNS Photo On May 6, the Vietnamese delegation had a defence policy dialogue with the Ministry of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Cuba. Minister of Revolutionary Armed Forces Sen. Lt. Gen. Leopoldo Cintra Frias said Cuba attaches great importance to sound friendly relations with Vietnam. Deputy Minister Vinh said Vietnam wants to further enhance the relations between the two countries armies as well as the two Parties, States and peoples. The two sides expressed their optimism at the outcomes of the bilateral defence partnership and agreed to boost co-operation in this field so as to strengthen each countrys defence power for the protection of their respective sovereignty, territorial integrity and revolutionary achievements. They will tighten co-ordination in the fields that had been agreed upon in the bilateral co-operation plan. The Cuban side hoped to boost co-operation with Vietnam in food security, defence industry, protection of the socialist ideological foundation on cyberspace and neutralisation of hostile forces sabotage attempts. The two sides agreed that in 2020, Vietnam and Cuba will organise activities to celebrate the 60th founding anniversary of the bilateral defence partnership. The two ministries signed minutes on implementing a dossier on the 60-year history of the Vietnam-Cuba defence partnership. Under the document, they will work together to research, compile and publish a set of books on the Vietnam-Cuba 60-year partnership (1960-2020) and make a documentary film about defence relations. The idea for the dossier was agreed upon by leaders of the two ministries during the visit to Cuba in March 2018 by a delegation of the Communist Party of Vietnam led by General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong. VNS By Trend A meeting was held with Zhyrgalbek Sagynbayev, Deputy Chairman of the State Committee for Industry, Energy and Subsoil Use of Kyrgyzstan, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, Trend reports referring to the Turkmen Foreign Ministry. Sagynbayev is also the co-chairman of the joint Turkmen-Kyrgyz Intergovernmental Committee. The parties discussed the possibilities of expanding trade, economic and investment cooperation and stressed the need to increase the volume of trade. The importance of business contacts between the two states was also emphasized during the meeting. In turn, the Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs of Turkmenistan (UIET) reports that large-scale investment projects implemented by domestic entrepreneurs, including those in the transport sector, developing the country's natural resources, developing the fishing industry, and tourism, were discussed during the meeting with Sagynbayev. It was reported earlier that Kyrgyzstan is negotiating the possibility of receiving natural gas from a future branch of the Turkmenistan-China pipeline for providing the southern regions of of the country with gas. Zhyrgalbek Sagynbayev told local media that it is necessary to conduct additional negotiations with all the countries participating in the project in order to resolve the issue. The construction of the 4th branch "D" of the Turkmenistan-China gas pipeline via Kyrgyzstan is scheduled to commence by late 2019. Overall, the new branch "D" is intended for the Turkmenistan-Uzbekistan-Tajikistan-Kyrgyzstan-China route. At present, 3 branches of the pipeline on the route Turkmenistan-Uzbekistan-Kazakhstan-China (branches "A", "B", "C") have been built and functioning. They are to supply 40 billion cubic meters of natural gas per year altogether. The additional branch's rate of flow is expected to be 25 billion cubic meters of gas, which will allow Turkmenistan to bring the volume of its natural gas exports to China to 65 billion cubic meters annually. It was reported earlier that, as of December 2018, more than 250 billion cubic meters of Turkmen gas had been exported to China since December 2009. Nepali Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli began his official visit to Vietnam on May 9, during which he will attend the UN Day of Vesak 2019. Nepali Prime Minister K. P. Sharma Oli (second, left) is welcomed at Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi on May 9 Accompany him in the four-day visit are Foreign Minister Pradeep Kumar Gyawali, Advisors to the PM Bishnu Prasad Rimal and Rajan Bhattarai, and Nepali Ambassador to Thailand Khaganath Adhikari, among others. Vietnam and Nepal set up their diplomatic relations on May 15, 1975 and have maintained sound relations in many areas. The two sides have regularly exchanged delegations in various areas from politics to trade. Over the past 44 years, Vietnam has offered support to Nepal, including 50,000 USD in aid to help it deal with earthquake consequences in 2015. Nepal has supported Vietnam in citizen protection. The two sides are working together on the signing of an agreement on visa exemption for diplomatic and official passport holders. The two countries have supported and collaborated with each other at multilateral and international forums. Cultural and tourism cooperation as well as people-to-people exchange have been strengthened. However, economic and trade cooperation between Vietnam and Nepal has remained modest. By September 2018, two-way trade reached only 38 million USD. Vietnam mostly exported to Nepal peppercorn and plastic products, while importing garment-textile materials, leather, and footwear. Currently, the Viettel Military Industry-Telecommunication Group is exploring investment opportunities in Nepal. The visit takes place in the context of smooth developments in the traditional friendship between Vietnam and Nepal, especially collaboration through the Party channel and economic-trade partnership. Vesak 2019, or the 16th UN Day of Vesak, will be celebrated at the Tam Chuc Buddhism Culture Centre in Kim Bang district of northern Ha Nam province from May 12-14.-VNA Sweden will help Vietnam in areas of its strength like energy saving, focusing on renewable energy development, Swedish Minister for Foreign Trade Ann Linde has said. Swedish Minister for Foreign Trade Ann Linde Linde made the pledge during her meeting with Vietnamese Minister of Industry and Trade Tran Tuan Anh in Hanoi on May 8, which took place within the framework of the visit to Vietnam by Crown Princess of Sweden Victoria Ingrid Alice Desiree. Sweden will also back Vietnamese small- and medium-sized enterprises, while assisting the country in building policies, developing infrastructure, and training personnel to meet the requirements of the fourth Industrial Revolution and the digital economy, she said. The minister affirmed Swedens support to Vietnam at the European Commission (EC) in signing and ratifying the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement and EU-Vietnam Investment Protection Agreement. The Swedish Government and businesses always give deep sentiments and attention to Vietnam, she said. The two ministers noted with pleasure the development of the bilateral cooperation and exchanged views on issues of shared concern. Anh said the Vietnamese Ministry of Industry and Trade (MoIT) will fulfil its role as a bridge between enterprises of the two countries for mutual development, while closely coordinating with relevant ministries and agencies in setting forth development orientations in the spheres of common concern such as energy, supporting industry, retail, and vocational training. He pointed out, however, that the bilateral trade has yet to match potential of both countries. In 2018, two-way trade reached only 1.5 billion USD, a year-on-year rise of 14.34 percent, of which Vietnams exports stood at 1.16 billion USD, up 18.99 percent, and imports hit 345 million USD, up 1.09 percent. According to the MoITs European-American Market Department, in the first quarter of 2019, Vietnam exported 324 million USD worth of goods to Sweden and imported 72 million USD from the country, with total revenue up 4.37 percent against the same period last year. Sweden now ranks 33rd among 131 countries and territories investing in Vietnam, with 67 valid projects valued at over 365 million USD. Currently, the European country is running many business projects in Vietnam, covering various realms like retail, machine manufacturing, electricity, IT and telecommunications, urban transport infrastructure, electronics, food processing, and education-training. On the occasion, Anh attended the Vietnam-Sweden Business Forum and chaired the Vietnam-Sweden Business Summit.VNA The State of Vietnam has been consistent in its policy of respecting and guaranteeing the right to freedom of all citizens to follow or not to follow any religion and belief, the spokesperson of the Foreign Ministry Le Thi Thu Hang affirmed. The spokesperson of the Foreign Ministry Le Thi Thu Hang She made the statement in response to reporters queries about Vietnams comments on the recent report on the religious situation in Vietnam released by the US Commission on International Religious Freedom. The spokesperson said the report recognised the achievements and progress in the work of ensuring and promoting religious life in Vietnam, but it still has some partial evaluations and false information about Vietnam. The consistent policy of the State of Vietnam is respecting and guaranteeing the right to freedom of religion and belief, and freedom of non-religion and belief of citizens. This is clearly stated in Vietnams constitution and law, and guaranteed and respected in reality, she stressed. Over the years, Vietnam has spared no effort to improve its legal system and policies in the field, especially approving the Law on Belief and Religion, as well as decrees guiding the implementation of this law, Hang said. The practice of belief and religion is ensured with the annual organisation of thousands of religious festivals and activities, she said, adding that 95 percent of Vietnams population practise a belief or religion, and more than 24.3 million are followers of religions, accounting for 27 percent of the population. The country has 53,000 religious dignitaries and 28,000 places of worship. Vietnam holds an abundance of religious events, with over 8,000 religious festivals annually. Religious organisations also actively participate in international exchange and cooperation activities, according to Hang. She noted that Vietnam has hosted many major international religious events such as the 500th anniversary of the Protestant Reformation in 2017 and the United Nations Day of Vesak for the third time this year. In response to questions about Vietnams reaction to Indonesias capture and destruction of Vietnamese fishing vessels, the foreign ministry spokesperson said Vietnam is deeply concerned over the issue. This action is inconsistent with bilateral relations and contrary to the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) 1982, she said. Vietnam has worked with the Indonesian side many times and through different channels regarding this matter and asked Indonesias Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries and marine forces to act appropriately in line with international law, UNCLOS, and the two countries bilateral relations, she added. The spokesperson said Vietnam also proposed that Indonesia treat Vietnamese fishing vessels and fishermen humanely according to the two nations relations and ASEAN spirit of solidarity. Vietnam hopes to develop friendly relations and multi-faceted cooperation with Indonesia in the spirit of their strategic partnership for the benefit of both peoples, contributing to the building of a strong ASEAN Community, as well as for peace, stability, cooperation, and development in the region and the world, she emphasised. Regarding the entry of the two US naval vessels in the 12 nautical mile area around the Ga Ven and Gac Ma reefs of Vietnams Truong Sa archipelago, Hang said Vietnam has full legal foundations and historical evidence affirming its sovereignty over Hoang Sa (Paracel) and Truong Sa (Spratly) archipelagoes in accordance with international law. As a coastal nation in the East Sea and a member of the UNCLOS 1982, Vietnam holds that all countries are entitled to enjoy freedom of navigation and aviation, in accordance with the provisions of international law, especially the UNCLOS 1982, Hang said. Vietnam calls on countries to continue making active and practical contributions to the maintenance of regional peace and stability, as well as respect and implement related international legal obligations and laws on seas and oceans, she added. VNA Vietnamese escort warship 016-Quang Trung on May 8 set sail from Cam Ranh port for Singapore to join military exercises as part of the ASEAN Defence Ministers Meeting Plus (ADMM+), and attend the Asia Pacifics Flagship Maritime Defence Show 2019. Vietnamese escort warship 016-Quang Trung (Photo: zing.vn) During its stay, the ship with 137 officers and sailors on board will participate in a marine security drill, including helicopter takeoff and landing on foreign ships and sharing information on suspected target at the sea. The warships attendance is to realise the Vietnamese State and Partys foreign policy of proactive international integration, implement the agreements signed among ADMM defence leaders, while affirming Vietnam Peoples Navy responsibility as a member of the ASEAN Navy Chiefs Meeting. It is also a vivid illustration of the Vietnamese Defence Ministry and Peoples Navys support for Singaporean counterpart in organising international events, helping consolidate friendship and cooperation with regional naval forces. The ADMM+ is a platform for ASEAN and its eight Dialogue Partners Australia, China, India, Japan, New Zealand, the Republic of Korea, Russia and the US to strengthen security and defence cooperation. The biennial IMDEX, a premier international maritime defence show in the Asia Pacific, comes to its 12th edition this year. It will welcome the presence of 33 navies, and six coast guards and maritime agencies from around the world.-VNA The Directorate of Roads in Viet Nam (DRVN) has proposed heavier punishments for drink drivers after a string of accidents resulted in the death of several victims in April and May. Deputy PM asks for alcohol checks for drivers Traffic police strengthen checks on drivers nationwide The Directorate of Roads in Viet Nam (DRVN) has proposed heavier punishments for drink drivers after a string of accidents resulted in the death of several victims in April and May. VNA/VNS Photo The DRVN is insisting on increasing the fine from VND16-18 million (US$750) to more than double at VND34-40 million. The proposed penalties for motorbike drivers have been suggested at VND7-8 million ($340), double the current amount, with a ban of up to two years for both car and motorbike drivers. Drink drivers who were found with alcohol blood levels exceeding 80mg/100ml or 0.4mg/1l breath content the highest level of offence for drink driving in the country will also have their licenses suspended for up to two years instead of just six months as of now. Fines for drink driving offences of a lesser degree (50mg/100ml alcohol blood level) will almost triple from the current VND7-8 million ($320) to VND20 million with a ban of up to 18 months. The proposal was presented at Transport Minister Nguyen Van Thes request last week to revise Government Decree No 46 issued in 2016. The DRVN also urged closer co-operation between provincial transport departments, the police and traffic inspectors to tighten traffic rules, especially those related to drink driving. Hanoi has been especially badly hit by drink drivers recently with two high-profile cases within just seven days. On April 24, Do Xuan Tuyen, 49, crashed into a garbage truck on Lang Street, killing a female worker on the spot. He fled the scene, hitting another car and a motorbike before his car finally broke down. He confessed to having at least seven beers before driving. On May 1, Le Trung Hieu, 39, hit two women on a motorbike in the Kim Lien Underpass. The two victims were rushed to hospital but succumbed to their injuries. His breathalyser test was recorded at 0.75mg/1l. Vietnam is infamous for its high number of traffic accidents as well as death toll. According to a report made by the National Committee for Traffic Safety, in 2018 18,736 traffic accidents occurred nationwide, leaving 8,248 dead and 14,802 injured. The Government has pledged to reduce those figures by 5-10 per cent this year. VNS The Russian Embassy held a ceremony to commemorate the Immortal Regiment of Russia at the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long on May 8 on the occasion of the 74th anniversary of the Great Patriotic War in Russia (May 9). Russian Ambassador to Vietnam K.V. Vnukov speaks at the event The event was attended by Russian Ambassador to Vietnam K.V. Vnukov, Russian diplomats and citizens who are residing and working and in Vietnam, and representatives of the Vietnam Veterans Association (VVA). In his opening speech, Vnukov said this is the third time an event of this kind has been held in Vietnam, adding that it affirmed that generations today still remember and are grateful for the glorious feat by heroes of the former Soviet Union (now Russian Federation) and Vietnam. Talking about the close relations between the two nations during the wartime, Colonel Nguyen Khanh Duy from the VVA shared that the success of the October Revolution in 1917 opened up the revolutionary path of Vietnam. The victory of the Soviet Union in the Great Patriotic War in 1945 created an objective premise for the success of Vietnams August Revolution in the same year, he added. The Vietnamese people appreciated the Soviet Unions support for Vietnam in the war for national independence, and during the countrys national reconstruction following the war, Duy said.VNA Sapa Airport project in the northern mountainous province of Lao Cai should be carefully reconsidered to ensure its feasibility and efficiency, according to the Civil Aviation Administration of Vietnam (CAAV). Noi Bai-Lao Cai Highway, a major route to Sapa Under a Lao Cai proposal, the VND5.9 trillion (USD251 million) airport would be located over 371 hectares in Cam Con commune, Bao Yen District and be capable of serving A320 and A321 aircraft. Some ministries, including the Ministry of Planning and Investment and the Ministry of Transport, have been instructed to consider the proposal before being submitted to the government for consideration. Lao Cai Province have recommended the public-private partnership (PPP) investment model for the project. The government have agreed to provide VND3 trillion for the construction of roads to the airport. The province will spend VND910 billion for site and bomb and mine clearance. VND132 billion will be sourced from Vietnam Air Traffic Management Corporation. Meanwhile, the remainder of VND1.7 trillion will be raised via Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT). However, in the latest document sent to the Ministry of Transport, deputy head of CAAV Dao Van Chuong said the BOT schemes should be used for the whole project in order to ease pressure on the state budget, except for facilities which will be invested by Vietnam Air Traffic Management Corporation. Chuong added that the project was not financially feasible. So, it is necessary to reconsider the projects investment and how to recoup the money. A senior unnamed aviation expert said that in the context of the current state budget difficulties, it was important to take into account the projects efficiency. The main passengers for the airport would be people from the southern region of Vietnam and those from Yunnan and Kunming provinces in China, he noted. He highlighted that the investment of Na San Airport in Dien Bien Province needed to be prioritised more than Sapa Airport as Dien Bien plays a strategic role in the northwestern region. Lai Xuan Thanh, chairman of Airports Corporation of Vietnam, said that the necessity of Sapa Airport was approved in the governments revised aviation plan during the 2020-2030 period. However, it is necessary to ensure the projects effective operation. Aviation expert Trinh Nhu Long said that Vietnam expected to have 26 airports by 2030, which was not a large number. But given the pressure on the state budget, the investment needs to be carefully mulled over. According to CAAVs plan, more flights to connect Lao Cai and tourist destinations such as Nha Trang, Quy Nhon, Can Tho and Phu Quoc will be opened after 2025. Sapa Airport is hoped to serve 500,000 visitors in 2025. Passenger numbers would increase by 15% per year between 2025 and 2030. Giao Thong/Dtinews The Ministry of Health (MoH) is ready for the UN Day of Vesak 2019, set to place in the northern province of Ha Nam from May 12-14. The UN Day of Vesak 2019 will take place in Ha Nam province from May 12-14. According to Director General of the MoHs Management of Medical Examination Department Luong Ngoc Khue, the health sector will take care of more than 1,500 delegates from 100 countries and territories worldwide, and about 10,000 domestic delegates and Buddhist followers. The department will work with the Vietnam Food Administration, Department of Preventive Medicine and the Health Environment Management Agency to ensure food safety and arrange personnel to give timely emergency aid and treatment in case of fires, explosions or mass food poisoning incidents, among other potential calamities. As the delegates will join Vesak Day activities in Hanoi, Ha Nam and Ninh Binh, medical staff will be arranged at Noi Bai International Airport, places hosting Vesak activities, hotels and Tam Chuc Buddhist Cultural Complex, Khue said. Central-level hospitals, Hanoi French Hospital, Vinmec International Hospital and general hospitals in Ha Noi, Ninh Binh and Ha Nam have been told to prepare high-quality patient beds for guests, delegates and journalists in case they need medical care. If patients need to travel abroad for treatment, the MoH will direct hospitals to prepare procedures, medicine and equipment to ensure that they are safely transferred overseas. The UN General Assembly on December 15, 1999 recognised the Day of Vesak to celebrate the thrice-sacred event of the life of the Buddha Gautama and to acknowledge the contributions Buddhism has made to humanity. The UN Day of Vesak was first celebrated in 2001, and this is the third time Vietnam has hosted the event.-VNA While international education organizations recognize the achievements of Vietnams education, Vietnamese people dont have confidence in the national education system. The report from the Ministry of Planning and Investment (MPI) about socio-economic development presented at the plenary session of the National Assemblys Economics Committee on April 25 noted that Vietnam was among the worlds 10 top education systems in the East Asia Pacific in 2018. Many Vietnamese questioned the ranking, and the public reaction was foreseeable. Its so funny, a commenter on an education forum said. . Even Vietnamese educators lack confidence in the quality of national education. Pham The Bao, lecturer in the IT Faculty at Sai Gon University, said he could not imagine that Pascal programming language was still being taught at general school. Vietnam is still teaching something that is no longer taught anywhere in the world, he commented. The report from the Ministry of Planning and Investment (MPI) about socio-economic development presented at the plenary session of the National Assemblys Economics Committee on April 25 noted that Vietnam was among the worlds 10 top education systems in the East Asia Pacific in 2018. Deputy director of the HCMC Education and Training Department Nguyen Van Hieu confirmed this, but said the department has to observe MOETs decision. He said that many schools are teaching other programming languages instead of Pascal. The news that Vietnam was among the 10 best education systems in 2018 was also a hot topic at a workshop on education in the digital era in early May. Its incredible that Vietnam is one of top 10. It would be more believable if Vietnam is listed among the 10 worst education systems, said Tran Ngoc Them, chair of the National Assemblys Committee of Culture, Education, the Youth and Children. In fact, not all Vietnamese are pessimistic about Vietnams education. Doan Van Hoa, 50, in an email to VietNamNet, wrote that he believes Vietnams education is among the best in the world. Hoa finished high school in 1986 and went to former Soviet Union to follow higher education two years later. I was one of the best students in class. And so were all my Vietnamese friends, in Germany, the Czech Republic and Hungary, he wrote. Vietnamese students capability is highly appreciated all over the world. This must be seen as the result of the good general education system, he sai. In 2016, OECD announced the results of PISA 2015 which showed that Vietnamese students ranked eighth out of 72 countries in science. Many Vietnamese showed their doubts about the results. In 2018, the Hanoi and HCMC National Universities were listed among top 1,000 universities in QS ranking. Vietnamese students won 13 gold medals, 14 silver and 11 bronze at the international Olympiads in 2018. However, on education forums, some people still comment that Vietnamese are good at solving math questions, not math. RELATED NEWS Vietnam education sector struggles to adapt to 4.0 era: expert Young man leaves Google to return to help education Kim Chi Joint works to promote smart tourism in the country since 2017 between the Vietnam Post and Telecommunications Group and the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism have produced positive results. As part of the agreement, the VNPT Smart Tourism system was launched in 2017. It was designed to meet all regulations on connecting the state management system to the tourism database, portals, smartphone applications, digital maps, the lodging management system, smart data analytics and prediction, and other support tools. It also offers solutions for users to carry out statistics research and manage customers feedback, promotion programmes, and advertisements. To date, it is able to fulfil the specific demand of each tourist market. The system recently won the silver prize in the category of Innovation in Business Information Apps at the prestigious Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards 2019 with the aim of recognising achievements in the workplace worldwide. Earlier in 2019, the two partners released the smart app VietnamGo, which is the official information channel of the Vietnamese tourism sector. The app integrates all functions offered by the system as a travel guide for visitors to 63 the cities and provinces across Vietnam. In support of the VNAT, the VNPT has so far opened tourism portals and launched smart tourism applications in 13 cities and provinces, including Lao Cai, Cao Bang, Ha Giang, and Ninh Binh. Similar works are being piloted in 34 other localities. VNA By Trend On May 8, President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev held a meeting on the development of the jewelry industry and the expansion of conditions for jewelry manufacturers, Trend reports referring to Uzbek media. Until recently, this industry received little attention in Uzbekistan. Eighty percent of the equipment of jewelry enterprises was worn out and some enterprises stopped the production. Moreover, there were many restrictions on the sale of precious metals to jewelers. The direct sale of precious metals to manufacturers through the exchange became allowed starting from March 1 of this year. The next goal is to bring the jewelry business to the level of a full-fledged industry. At the meeting, the head of state noted the need for the effective use of raw materials, the active attraction of investments in the industry and the organization of modern production. The high cost of gold, platinum and silver limits the ability of enterprises in the industry to form working capital. In this regard, it was instructed to review the tax burden on the jewelry industry and release imported raw materials and equipment from customs duties. It is indicated that it is necessary to stimulate the attraction of investments of world-famous companies to state-owned jewelry enterprises, support manufacturers and provide them with preferential loans for the purchase of precious metals. There are deposits of such precious stones as turquoise, malachite, lapis lazuli, and opal in Uzbekistan, but their industrial development has not been established. The meeting provides guidance on the development of all areas of jewelry and organizing the extraction of the necessary precious stones for the industry. The President emphasized the necessity to lift restrictions on the supply of jewelry products to the market and to give individual manufacturers the right to sell their products. It was also noted that domestic enterprises should stamp the products themselves and that it is necessary to simplify the procedure for exporting jewelry abroad by individuals. Instructions have been given to establish electronic accounting for the reception and sale of jewelry at retail outlets, and prevent illegal trade of them. The Lao Ministry of National Defence and the Vietnamese Defence Attache Office in Laos on May 9 held a ceremony to mark the 65th anniversary of the Dien Bien Phu victory (May 7) which ended the French rule in Vietnam. Vietnamese Defence Attache in Laos Colonel Tao Van Thai speaks at the event. In his opening remarks, Lao Deputy Defence Minister Lt. Gen. Phuvong Vongphom recalled the victory of the Vietnamese army and people 65 years ago, saying it is also the victory of Lao and Cambodian peoples who shared the same energy and the goal of national liberation with Vietnam. Under the sound leadership of the Communist Party of Vietnam, the Vietnam Peoples Army and people have gained successes in reform, revolutionary achievement protection and socialism building, significantly contributing to peace and stability in Asia-Pacific and the world at large, he said. This has created great momentum for the Lao army and people in national defence and development, the official stressed. Officers and soldiers of the Lao Peoples Army will learn from the traditions and spirit of their Vietnamese counterparts, and join efforts in nurturing and promoting the great friendship, special solidarity and comprehensive cooperation between the two countries and armies, he said. Sharing Phuvong Vongphoms views, Vietnamese Defence Attache in Laos Colonel Tao Van Thai said the Dien Bien Phu victory is a joint one among the three Indochinese nations, the triumph of solidarity and combatant alliance between Vietnam and Laos. He took the occasion to thank the Lao Party, State, army and people for their valuable support to Vietnam during the past struggle for national liberation as well as the present national construction and defence. The Dien Bien Phu Campaign lasted from March to May 1954 under the command of General Vo Nguyen Giap. Vietnams victory on May 7, 1954 led to the signing of the 1954 Geneva Accords in which France agreed to withdraw its forces from its colonies in Indochina.-VNA The Vietnamese expatriate community in Saint Petersburg, Russia, joined a local march to commemorate the Immortal Regiment in the Great Patriotic War on May 9, also Russias 74th Victory Day over Fascism. Earlier, on May 8, at a local remembrance ceremony that gathered thousands of people, the group placed flowers to pay respect to Russian soldiers and people who lost their lives during the Great Patriotic War (1941-1945) and the Second World War (1939-1945). Doan Phan Duy, a participant, said he was honoured to be among representatives of Vietnamese students of the Saint Petersburg University at the ceremony. He said it was the first time he had attended the event, adding that it helps him understand more about Russias history and traditions related to the significant day. There are currently about 50,000 Vietnamese people living and working in Russia. Saint Petersburg was previously the Soviet city of Leningrad. The siege of Leningrad, a military blockade undertaken by the Nazis in the Second World War, lasted 900 days, during which Soviet soldiers fought to defend the city. The campaign to free the city has become the biggest symbol of the fight between Nazi Germany and Soviet forces.-VNA Ton Nu Thi Huyen, head of an illegal organ trading ring, at police station. Photo laodong.com.vn HA NOI Local police are expanding the investigation into a large-scale illegal organ trading ring operating in Ha Noi, HCM City and some other provinces. Ton Nu Thi Huyen, 44, residing in HCM City, has been identified as the leader of the illegal ring, the police said. The investigation agency determined the transnational organ trafficking ring had been operating since May 2017 and provided about 100 people with kidneys, Lao ong (Labour) newspaper reported. The ring was busted on January 21. During that time, Huyen and her accomplices allegedly searched for people who wanted to sell a kidney on Facebook. After that, kidney sellers were offered health check-ups in Viet Nam and then taken to Cambodia for the surgery. Huyen previously sold her own kidney, then became a broker and the leader of this ring. Each person who sold a kidney to Huyen would receive VN200-210 million (US$8,700-9,100). The amount that this group obtained from each successful kidney sale ranged from $15,000 to $17,000 while successful brokers received from VN20 to 25 million. Earlier, on January 31, the investigation agency launched criminal proceedings against Huyen and her accomplices. All of them admitted their illegal acts, police said. VNS Generation Study Abroad aims to double and diversify the number of U.S. students studying abroad by the end of the decade. Over 800 colleges and universities, organizations and companies, and governments from around the world have signed on as partners. Virginia Tech joined the initiative in 2017 with the Global Education Office pledging to increase study abroad participation from less than 17% to 23% of the student body. More than 1,400 Virginia Tech students studied abroad last academic year, an increase of almost 15% from the previous year. Guru Ghosh, vice president for Outreach and International Affairs, said, The Global Education Office, in collaboration with the colleges and various university offices, has made substantial efforts to move the needle forward. Its exciting to see those efforts begin to pay off as more Virginia Tech students pursue these transformative learning opportunities abroad. A $1.6 million legacy estate gift from the family of an orthopedic surgeon and his wife will provide scholarship support for future physicians studying at the Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine. After growing up in Lynchburg, Virginia, Robert Richardson Bowen returned to the city after receiving his undergraduate degree from Virginia Tech and medical degree from Medical College of Virginia his education interrupted by service in the U.S. Navy during World War II in the Pacific. He practiced orthopedic surgery in Lynchburg for 40 years with his wife, Rebecca Bowen, at his side. Throughout the years, the Bowens supported a variety of health care advocacy and educational initiatives, from support for new clinical spaces to scholarships for nursing students or physicians to continue their education. Robert Bowen passed away in 2013 and Rebecca Bowen passed away in 2018. Before her death, Rebecca Bowen expressed a desire to continue her and Roberts support of health care advocacy and education through bequests and legacy gifts, one of which was a wish to see health care-related scholarship support at Virginia Tech. My Aunt Rebecca wanted to leave a bequest to each university that shaped her husband into the accomplished man and surgeon that he became, said Mary Dunn Conover, niece of Robert and Rebecca Bowen and one of the trustees of their estate. Although Virginia Tech did not have the Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine when he was a student there, Uncle Bob dedicated his whole career to learning and to the practice and advancement of medicine and science. His Virginia Tech collegiate education was the beginning of an extraordinary journey, so Aunt Rebecca felt that this was an appropriate tribute. The Bowen family said Robert had a love for learning and enjoyed teaching students and other professionals throughout his career. The Dr. and Mrs. Robert R. and Rebecca Bowen Memorial Scholarship Fund will help offset educational expenses for students pursuing a medical degree at the Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine. This generous gift from the Bowen family will provide valuable financial support for our students, said Daniel Harrington, interim dean of the Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine. Scholarships allow us to attract and retain competitive students and make medical education more accessible for all. Hopefully this gift will both inspire others to give as well as begin to help future scholarship recipients view their benefactors as real people to be remembered and appreciated, said Conover. Robert Bowen graduated from Virginia Tech in 1950 with a degree from the College of Science. He only made one previous gift to Virginia Tech: $2.00 in 1956. Heather Stech keeps the wheels greased and moving at Northeast Iowa Family Practice Center in Waterloo. As nurse manager, its her job to make sure the staff of 12 nurses who assist the 18 resident family physicians there are following best practices for optimum patient care. She is someone who works incredibly hard and strives to ensure patients at Northeast Iowa Family Practice Center receive the highest quality of care and that it is a wonderful place to work for the staff as well, said Alayna Zelle, a receptionist at the practice who nominated Stech for a 2019 Cedar Valley Top 10 Nurse honor. Stech has been at the family practice center for 21 years. Initially she wanted to be a nurse in pediatrics or obstetrics, then realized family practice medicine would let her do that and more. We get the whole life spectrum in family practice, she said. Stech graduated from Allen College in 1995. Shes spent the bulk of her nursing career at Northeast Iowa Family Practice Center, which serves as the base of training for the Northeast Iowa Residency Program. During their three-year training period, resident physicians provide comprehensive medical care to more than 7,700 patients. I love what I do because of the teaching side of it, Stech said. We have 18 resident doctors at a time, and its neat to see them grow. Stech also aims to help the nurses who report to her reach their career goals. With her kind approach and years of knowledge she has advice to give in any situation that arises and is willing to lend a hand to help, Zelle said. She will always let you know if she notices something you do well. Heather has a way of making every person feel included and an important part of the family. A family atmosphere is important at the practice, but Stech is also known for a family first approach with her staff. Stech, of La Porte City, is married and has two sons ages 19 and 17. Heather knows that the key to keeping her staff happy is to make sure she helps them maintain a balance between work and time with family. She has been known to take on extra tasks to help a nurse be able to attend last-minute school events, Zelle said. Stech said that model is ultimately better for patients. I want them to come to work and give 100 percent and then go home to their real jobs. Family is the most important thing. If Im flexible with them for family things, they are less stressed and theyll give back 100 percent to patients, she said. Stechs staff appreciate her leadership. Heather navigates both as a nurse and supervisor with grit and grace, Zelle said. Her integrity, kindness and enthusiastic approach help us each become better in our respective positions. Our clinic has been lucky to have a nurse like Heather call it home for over 20 years. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Be the first to know Get local news delivered to your inbox! Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. CEDAR RAPIDS An Idaho man has pleaded guilty to allegations he tried to influence a victim of his brothers fraud scheme. David Emerson Smith, 70, of Pocatello, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to obstruct an official proceeding on Monday in U.S. District Court in Cedar Rapids. He remains free pending sentencing. According to prosecutors, David Emerson Smiths brother, Darrell Smith, was in the Bremer County Jail in Waverly in 2017 and 2018 awaiting sentencing on wire fraud and identity theft connected to investments in a Hopkinton ethanol plant. Darrell Smith allegedly had David Smith contact a woman who lost $160,000 to the scheme. He was to offer her stock shares, tax credits and other incentives to influence her statements to probation officials regarding the size of her loss, which would weigh into the amount of time Darrell would spend behind bars, according to court records. David Smith also allegedly helped his brother obtain a $25,000 loan in June 2018 that was routed to David Smiths bank account and used to pay Darrell Smiths debts instead of restitution, according to court records. The following month, David Smith allegedly attempted to close his brothers $120,000 retirement account and move the money to his own bank account, court records state. Before the transfer was completed, the account was garnished as part of Darrell Smiths plea agreement. Darrell Smith was sentenced to 14 years in prison and ordered to pay $1 million in restitution in 2018. A grand jury indicted David Smith in December 2018. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 1 Sad 0 Angry 0 Sign up for our Crime & Courts newsletter Get the latest in local public safety news with this weekly email. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. The total trade exchange of goods and services between the UAE and UK in 2017 amounted to around 17.5 billion pounds ($22.5 billion), with an estimated growth of 25 percent during 2016-2017, according to a senior UAE official. Mohammed Bin Abdul Aziz Al Shehhi, Undersecretary of Economic Affairs in the Ministry of Economy made the remarks on behalf of Sultan bin Saeed Al Mansouri, Minister of Economy during the 5th UAE-UK Joint Economic Committee (JEC) which was held in London in the presence of a high-level official delegation from the UAE, reported state news agency Wam. Baroness Fairhead, UK Minister of State for Trade and Export Promotion led the attendees from the UK side. The Committee was held in the presence of Sulaiman Al Mazroui, UAE Ambassador to UK. The latest session of the Committee focused on ensuring the integration between development visions of both countries, through developing broader economic partnerships across priority fields according to objectives of the UAE Vision 2021, and the UKs Industrial Strategy and Export Strategy. The JEC also discussed opportunities for cooperation in the areas of energy, healthcare, life sciences, information technology, space, infrastructure, education, financial and professional services, as well as fields based on technology, innovation, Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) and artificial intelligence (AI). The two countries also agreed to hold the next session of the Committee in the UAE in 2021 during the Expo 2020 Dubai. Al Shehhi said during his speech on behalf of the UAE Minister of Economy that the topics covered by the 5th JEC mark the beginning of a new chapter in the economic cooperation between the two friendly countries. He further added that the UK is one of the most sustainable and reliable trade partners of the UAE, and the continuous growth rates achieved through this partnership reflect the shared aspirations to promote and develop aspects of bilateral cooperation, especially in economic, trade and investment sectors. He added that trade and joint investment figures indicate that the UAE is the largest market for UK exports in the region, and the fourth largest outside the European Union (EU). "The total trade exchange of goods and services between the two countries during 2017 amounted to around 17.5 billion pounds with an estimated growth of 25 percent during 2016-2017. Besides, the volume of foreign trade in non-oil goods between the two countries was estimated at approximately 9 billion pounds in 2018, recording a growth rate of 10 percent over 2017." In addition, many indicators reflect the outstanding nature of the current economic partnership between the two friendly countries. More than 120,000 Britons live and work in the UAE, and around 6,000 British companies, including some leading players, operate in the country's markets, making the UK the largest foreign investor in the UAE. In terms of tourism, the British market occupies an important place, with the number of British tourists to the country in 2018 nearing 1.5 million. He added that the latest JEC session has successfully outlined frameworks to link the strategic and development visions of both countries, especially the objectives of the UAE Vision 2021, which aims to strengthen the status of the country as a major commercial and logistical hub in the region, and the UKs Industrial Strategy and Export Strategy, which aims to strengthen the UK's position as a global exporter. Baroness Fairhead said that both countries enjoy strong trade relations as clearly reflected by growth rates of foreign trade volume in the past years. "This is what we want to maintain in the next phase, while also intensifying our joint efforts to achieve further growth in bilateral trade," she said. She further added that the UAE is a vital trade hub and plays a key role in facilitating trade and investment in the region, and serves as a hub for regional expansion in the Middle East and wider Africa and Asia region. As the minister responsible for the United Kingdom's participation in the Expo 2020, she emphasised the UK's commitment to ensuring a highly productive participation. The UK is participating in Expo 2020 with a unique pavilion highlighting the British expertise in the field of AI and space technology. According to Expo's figures, the number of British companies that have registered on the global e-market platform of Expo 2020 has reached around 1,321, including 977 small and medium-sized companies. The UAE delegation also participated in the 15th session of the UAE-UK Business Council held in London to discuss ways to enhance dialogue and partnerships between the private sectors of the UAE and the UK. Eng Al Shehhi noted in his opening speech that the UAE-UK Business Council plays an important role in expanding the bilateral relations between the two friendly countries, especially on the economic and trade levels. He also lauded the Councils ambitious goal to raise the volume of bilateral trade to 25 billion pounds by 2020. DES MOINES Public health officials in Iowa are turning their attention away from flu cases and toward disease-transmitting ticks and mosquitoes while keeping a watchful eye out for measles outbreaks. State Medical Director Dr. Caitlin Pedati said the influenza season has slowed to sporadic and should be over by months end but not before claiming 79 lives, including one pediatric flu-related death. I do expect to see a drop off in the coming weeks, she noted. Last year, 272 Iowans died due to influenza, so thankfully this was a less-severe flu season, Pedati told members of the state Board of Health on Wednesday. The flu is a respiratory illness caused by viruses. With the onset of spring weather, warmer weather and more outdoor activities, she said, the focus shifts to vector-borne diseases with special attention going to the West Nile virus after 2018 when Iowa saw the second-highest number of cases since the mosquito-borne virus was identified in Iowa in 2002. The Iowa Department of Public Health reported at least 73 cases of West Nile virus were under investigation the most since 147 cases in 2003. Most people who become infected with West Nile virus do not develop any symptoms, she said, but about one in five infected people will develop a fever along with other symptoms such as headache, body aches, joint pains and rash. It is recommended that Iowans use insect repellent with DEET, Picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus or IR3535 as well as avoiding outdoor activities at dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active. They are advised to wear long-sleeved shirts, pants, shoes and socks outdoors whenever possible and eliminate standing water where mosquitoes can lay eggs. While some states are dealing with measles cases that have reached 764 nationwide, Pedati said Iowas count for the very contagious virus stands at two both in the same northeastern Iowa household. Testing by the State Hygienic Lab confirmed that first case of measles infection was for an individual who was unvaccinated and recently returned from Israel, where measles transmission is occurring. The second person was a household contact of the first person with the infection. Those marked the first cases of measles in Iowa since 2011. Health officials said there was no current threat to the general public. Pedati said the cases serve as a reminder for all Iowans to ensure their vaccinations are up-to-date because the MMR vaccine prevents diseases and save lives. Its so critically important to maintain the use of a good preventive tool and thats the MMR vaccine, she told the state board, noting that one dose is highly effective in up to 94 percent of vaccinations and that number climbs to 97 percent with two doses. We know that this is going to be an ongoing issue for a little while and we want to make sure that people know who to go to for good information, added Pedati. We want everybody to be protected and we want people to understand that the reason is because there are places in the world where this is ongoing, and the potential to import it into vulnerable populations is exactly what weve seen in places like New York, Michigan and California. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Get Government & Politics updates in your inbox! Stay up-to-date on the latest in local and national government and political topics with our newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. CEDAR RAPIDS The White House has rejected House Democrats demand that President Donald Trump turn over his tax returns, but Sen. Joni Ernst, R-Iowa, said the president should release them. He should voluntarily release them. Yes, she said Wednesday during a conference call with Iowa reporters. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin this week told majority House Democrats he would not furnish the presidents tax returns despite a 1924 law that seems to explicitly give Congress power to request those documents. After consulting with the Justice Department, Mnuchin said potential privacy violations justify the decision to shield Trumps returns from Congress. Pressed on why she thinks its important for Trump to make his returns public, Ernst said she doesnt know that it is important. But I think there are a lot of folks that have stated that they want to see them, Ernst said. But I dont know what bearing that has on whether hes qualified to be president or not. Her comments follow publication Wednesday by the New York Times of tax information it received from someone it described as having legal access to Trumps tax returns for the years 1985-94. That information showed he lost more than $1.17 billion in that time and avoided paying income tax in eight of those 10 years. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 1 Get Government & Politics updates in your inbox! Stay up-to-date on the latest in local and national government and political topics with our newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. For 41 years, nurse Mary Ferrell has committed herself to patient care. Today, she still gets right to the heart of every patient as the director of cardiopulmonary services at MercyOne Waterloo Medical Center. I have 11 departments Im responsible for, and its very important to start the day rounding to check in on patients. It can take a while, but it allows me to visit with patients, families and staff to see if there are problems we need to solve. It hasnt gone unnoticed by the team she leads, and its why Ferrell was named to the 2019 Cedar Valley Top 10 Nurses list. She stresses the importance of compassion in all of our areas and visits with patients and families about the care and outcomes of their visits with us. Mary has a collegial relationship with providers and other leaders and is seen as an expert resource to the organization, said nominator Brandy Cooper. Ferrell, of Cedar Falls, attended Allen School of Nursing and became a registered nurse in 1978. She went on to receive a bachelor of science in nursing from the University of Dubuque. Ferrell worked at Allen Hospital for a number of years before joining Covenant Medical Center (now MercyOne-Waterloo) in 1997 as a cardiac facilitator. It was there she found her calling. I realized very soon that cardiology is what I love, she said. At MercyOne, Ferrell also has served as director of medical services, director of trauma and critical care services and manager of cardiopulmonary services. In 2014, she led a multidisciplinary team to establish the hospitals Chest Pain Center. The center was reaccredited last year. Im very proud of that. You have to look at new strategies and programs if you want patients to receive the best outcomes, Ferrell said. This passion and commitment to excellent in cardiac care was the driver for Mary. ... Her mantra was this was what was best for our patients, Cooper said. Ferrell participates in the Go Red for Women campaign, the American Heart Association Heart Walk and other health-related fundraisers and activities. In 2016, she was named one of 100 Great Iowa Nurses. As a leader, she strives to bring out the great in other nurses also. As a leader, it is my job to empower and mentor nurses and staff, she said. In any leadership role there are challenges, but I love what I do. She encourages new nurses to never stop learning. Nursing right out of school can be scary, she said. Just watch, listen, ask questions and learn. Provide care with compassion and dont be too hard on yourself. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 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. WATERLOO The League of Women Voters of Black Hawk-Bremer Counties announces the members of its 2019-2020 board. Officers are Cherie Dargan, president; Cindy Wells, vice president and program chair); Sandy Benedett, treasurer; and Jeri Thornsberry, secretary. Other board members are Yeshi Abebe, Marcia Buttgen, Mike Dargan (social media and website), Pat Harper (membership chair), Teresa Meyer (Bremer County representative), Renata Sack (issues chair), Susan Vogel, Maureen White, and Willie Mae Wright (voter services chair). Abebe, Buttgen, and Vogel were welcomed as new members of the board. In addition, the League is assisted by previous board members E.J. Gallagher (liaison to Partners in Education), Jean Seeland (organizer of candidate forums), and Doris Kelley (liaison to State Board 19th Amendment Committee). Senior Center hosts live music INDEPENDENCE The Independence Senior Center will host live country music from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Friday at 400 Fifth Ave. N.E. There will be a potluck at 7:30 p.m., with a cost of $4 per person. All ages are welcome. Poyner to hold flag ceremony EVANSDALE Poyner Elementary will conduct a retirement of flags ceremony of its United States flag and Iowa flag on Friday at 9 a.m. in front of the school. The American Legion Post 138 Auxiliary Womens Unit will demonstrate how a flag is properly retired when taken down from a flagpole. This event is the result of several second-grade students realizing Poyners flags were very worn and torn from years of use. Students Riley Jensen, Brooklyn Dean, Isabella Lowe and Kaylee Beatty created a video for Poyner to put on Facebook requesting new flags. Poyner received multiple offers to volunteer and purchase new flags. Parents, veterans and donors are invited to the ceremony. Waterloo market serves breakfast WATERLOO The Kimball Ridge Family Market will host a breakfast bonanza from 8 a.m. to noon Saturday at Kimball Ridge, corner of Ridgeway and Kimball. Vendors will feature food often served at breakfast, including free samples of egg casserole and pastries. Other products will include noodles, eggs, starter plants and baked goods. The market takes place every Saturday through October. Census job help available WATERLOO There will be a gathering from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. May 18 at the Waterloo Public Library for people interested in applying for 2020 U.S. Census. People can find more information and help in applying. Check 2020census.gov/jobs or call (855) 562-2020 for more information. According to the Census Bureau, they will be hiring for a variety of temporary jobs, including census takers, recruiting assistants, office staff and supervisory staff. Equal Rights talk set for May 21 CEDAR FALLS The League of Women Voters of Black Hawk-Bremer Counties will sponsor a panel discussion on the Equal Rights Amendment from from 7 to 8:30 p.m. May 21 at the Community Foundation of Northeast Iowa at 3117 Greenhill Circle. Panel members are Rep. Timi Brown-Powers, D-Waterloo; Wendy Hoofnagle of University of Northern Iowa womens and gender studies; Melody Kosobucki of NOW; Jayme Neiman of UNI political science; and Maureen White of AAUW. The panel will be facilitated by Yeshi Abebe, LWV board member. Panel members will discuss the history of the Equal Rights Amendment, arguments pro and con, and what still needs to be done to secure the amendment. The event is free and open to the public. School retirees meet May 21 WATERLOO The May meeting of the Black Hawk Retired School Personnel will be May 21 in the Friendship Village Dining Room, 600 Park Lane. The program will start at 11 a.m.; people should arrive a little earlier to register and pay $8.50 for lunch. Speaker will be Deputy Joe Stafford, the community services coordinator for Black Hawk County Sheriffs Office, talking about current scams and identity theft issues. Call 235-7054 before Monday for a reservation. All retired school personnel (administrators, teachers, associates, secretaries, custodians, bus drivers, etc.) are invited to join the local and state association to help support retired school personnel across Iowa. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 At first, ShanQuiesha Robinson was apprehensive about the nursing field. A 2000 Waterloo West High graduate, Robinson, who goes by Shae, had completed X-ray school but didnt feel fulfilled. Sure, she was helping patients but she didnt feel like she was reaching them. Her godmother, Doreen Mingo, a nurse at then Allen Hospital, suggested nursing. People have the perspective of what nurses do, and my perspective was a little off I didnt want to clean puke, Robinson said. But when she learned more about the career, she saw how much critical thinking was involved and how nurses really make a difference in peoples lives. Now those who work with Robinson recognize her ability to bring a personal touch to her job as a pre- and post-surgical nurse at UnityPoint Health-Allen Hospital in Waterloo. Part of that comes from surviving breast cancer. Shae Robinson was diagnosed a few weeks before graduation at the University of Northern Iowa, and she put nursing college on hold during treatment. Its an experience that helped mold her into the nurse she is today, and its a fact she sometime shares with patients. I know if its the right time or not. Its the feeling or this voice that tells me. Everybodys journey is different, but you can take from each journey, Robinson said. I have the point of view of the patient, and I have the point of view of the nurse, so I feel I can relate a little bit better with my patients. She also inspires future generations of nurses as a clinical instructor at Hawkeye Community College. Away from the hospital and the campus, she is an organizer of the Splash of Color breast cancer awareness organization. While studying, Robinson traveled to Africa twice during her senior year at UNI. Her first trip, as part of a requirement to earn an international health certificate, took her on a mission to Ghana, where she taught water filtration to residents who took the knowledge back to their villages. After Ghana, Robinson was offered a chance to study any subject she wanted for the University of Iowa, and she went to Gambia to study the practice of female genital mutilation. Robinsons experiences overseas come back to her as she prepares for her next step in life earning a masters degree. Right now, shes trying to choose between focusing on public health, community health or leadership. I work in the hospital and I teach, but I still have that desire to continue to do missions and free clinics, Robinson said. 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17 (24) Jan 16 (23) Jan 15 (30) Jan 14 (20) Jan 13 (18) Jan 12 (24) Jan 11 (11) Jan 10 (23) Jan 09 (22) Jan 08 (17) Jan 07 (17) Jan 06 (9) Jan 05 (18) Jan 04 (15) Jan 03 (19) Jan 02 (14) Jan 01 (6) Dec 31 (12) Dec 30 (4) Dec 29 (15) Dec 28 (11) Dec 27 (7) Dec 26 (10) Dec 25 (16) Dec 24 (13) Dec 23 (16) Dec 22 (11) Dec 21 (26) Dec 20 (28) Dec 19 (14) Dec 18 (25) Dec 17 (23) Dec 16 (19) Dec 15 (22) Dec 14 (38) Dec 13 (26) Dec 12 (25) Dec 11 (27) Dec 10 (31) Dec 09 (15) Dec 08 (30) Dec 07 (31) Dec 06 (27) Dec 05 (38) Dec 04 (25) Dec 03 (27) Dec 02 (15) Dec 01 (36) Nov 30 (23) Nov 29 (17) Nov 28 (23) Nov 27 (13) Nov 26 (16) Nov 25 (14) Nov 24 (18) Nov 23 (21) Nov 22 (21) Nov 21 (24) Nov 20 (20) Nov 19 (23) Nov 18 (17) Nov 17 (17) Nov 16 (34) 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) Skidmore, Owings & Merrill LLP (SOM) has opened its new exhibition "Beyond the Structure" ("+ Alla de la Estructura") in Madrid, Spain. Presented in collaboration with the COAM Architecture Foundation, the exhibition spotlights the integration of SOMs structural engineering practice with architectural design, and explores the idea that engineers and architects practice a spatial poetry of inquiry, experimentation, and ingenuity. Image courtesy of SOM The exhibition can be visited until June 20, 2019 at the rooms Gutierrez-Soto and Mercadal - COAM. As part of the opening event, SOM Partners Mark Sarkisian and Kent Jackson presented a lecture titled Beyond the Structure. The engineer and architect discussed the design philosophies behind SOMs work, as well as current projects and emerging ideas within the firm's structural engineering practice. Image Ana Amado/COAM Following this, Sarkisian and SOM Director Dmitri Jajich joined a panel discussion with local architects Carlos Rubio, Jose Maria Ezquiaga, Rafael de la Hoz, and Rosa Cervera. Titled "Beyond the Horizon," the panel conversation focused on the theme of cities in the future. Panelists shared insights on height and density, building with fewer materials, shape optimization, and the role of mixed-use residential developments, among other topics. Journalist Anatxu Zabalbeascoa moderated the panel. Image Ana Amado/COAM First displayed in Munich in early 2016, the original concept for the exhibition was based on a special monograph published by Detail magazine in 2015. Since then, different iterations of the exhibition have been displayed in Hamburg and Cologne; in Aalborg, Denmark; at the 2017 Chicago Architecture Biennial; as a collateral exhibition of the 2018 Venice Biennale of Architecture; and, most recently, as a part of MEXTROPOLI in Mexico City. Models exhibited. Image Lucas Orlando/SOM The centerpiece of the current exhibition in Madrid is an installation of structural models at 1:500 scale putting SOMs groundbreaking projects on display. The model lineup features some of SOMs most innovative recent work around the world, including JTI Headquarters in Geneva; Exchange House in London and Hotel Arts in Barcelona, alongside influential and pioneering projects designed throughout the firms history, including John Hancock Center (now known as 875 North Michigan Avenue), Sears Tower (now known as Willis Tower), and Burj Khalifa. Timbrel Vault Structure. Image Ana Amado/COAM New to the traveling exhibition is a 5-by-5-by-3 meters timbrel vault structure. Constructed of overlapping bricks and mortar, the vault's design incorporates shape optimization to yield an ultra-light and efficient shell form. The piece exemplifies one of the exhibition's main themes: that the economy of a structure depends on how efficiently it can be constructed. The vault was made in collaboration with the University of Alcala and the Timbrel Vault Workshop and is the result of joint work developed in recent editions of the workshop. Image courtesy of SOM Models exhibited. Image Lucas Orlando/SOM Models exhibited. Image Lucas Orlando/SOM Image Ana Amado/COAM Panel conversation "Beyond the Horizon". Image Ana Amado/COAM Exhibition: Beyond the Structure April 24, 2019 - June 20, 2019 Monday to Friday 8:00 am to 8:00pm CET Rooms Gutierrez-Soto and Mercadal COAM Calle de Hortaleza 63, Madrid Throughout the duration of the exhibition, SOM will also present a program of panel discussions, workshops and guided tours. Events and lectures will be scheduled during the run of the exhibition. Top image: Opening of the exhibition "Beyond the Structure". Image Ana Amado/COAM > via SOM Dubai-based international airline Emirates has signed agreements with three teams from the sixth cohort of the Dubai Future Accelerators (DFA) programme to foster innovation in the global aviation industry. The companies, hailing from the US, Germany and the UK, were selected from the pool of seven participant teams that worked with Emirates through DFA for nine weeks between March and May 2019. The memoranda of understanding (MoUs) were signed by Adel Al Redha, Emirates executive vice president and chief operations officer and by representatives from the shortlisted companies - Opinsta (UK), Predapp (Germany) and Verusen (US). The DFA programme builds on Dubais position as a leader in stimulating innovation and creativity by bringing the best of innovative start-ups from around the world to work with corporate entities and government agencies in Dubai. Emirates joined the DFA programme in 2017. In what was a first earlier this year, Emirates and the Dubai Future Foundation announced that all the teams participating in the sixth cohort of the DFA programme would be dedicated to addressing three challenges set forth by Emirates in the domains of B2B procurement, seamless customer experience, and an integrated system for crew duty travel. The teams from Cohort 6 of the DFA programme worked with stakeholders from Emirates to map out requirements, refine their proposals and develop prototype solutions. Opinsta, Predapp and Verusen were chosen based on the fit of their proposed solutions, and broader application and scalability within Emirates. Al Redha said: Over the course of nine weeks, the interactions between the teams at Emirates as well as the participants of Cohort 6 of the Dubai Future Accelerators programme have resulted in a number of options we can explore to address the challenges we had defined. All the participating teams were actively engaged in the challenge and were able to gain considerable insights into the functioning of the worlds largest international airline in the areas outlined in the challenges. This by itself has sparked off a number of ideas for further innovation both within and outside of the aviation industry. Even though all the proposals were interesting, we signed MoUs with three shortlisted companies to explore their solutions in depth and evaluate the outcomes to provide our customers a better experience and implement more efficient process, he added. Khalfan Belhoul, CEO at Dubai Future Foundation said: What we are witnessing here is the advancement of the next wave in aviation innovation led by the UAE government by adopting and testing emerging technologies, and reiterating once again Dubais role in shaping the future of humanity. The MoUs signed today are the outcome of DFAs offering of an ideal setting for Emirates, the worlds largest international airline, along with the brightest and most innovative minds, to work hand in hand in finding transformative solutions to key challenges in the aviation industry, he added. Verusen will be working on using Artificial Intelligence to support more agile procurement and supply chains for Emirates. Opinsta will be working on enhancing the internal processes and systems for crew duty travel and Predapp will work on developing an Emirates AI Assistant that will assist airline customers from pre-flight to post-flight. TradeArabia News Service Australias New South Wales (NSW) Minister for the Arts has announced the six design teams shortlisted for the landmark new Powerhouse Precinct at Parramatta competition in Sydney. The Powerhouse Precinct is the largest cultural infrastructure project currently being undertaken in Australia. It will transform and renew one of Australias oldest and most important cultural institutions, setting an international benchmark in cultural precinct design. The competition focused on a 24-hour museum that will showcase the internationally-significant Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS) collection and support a dynamic program of changing exhibitions welcomed both Australian and international design teams. It actively encouraged creative and intellectual collaborations between established and emerging talent. Teams include collaborations between emerging and established practices and Australian and international talent. 74 teams (including 529 individual firms) entered the open two-stage competition. View across the river towards site (facing east). Image MRC / Dianna Snape The finalist international-Australian and Australian teams are (in alphabetical order): Aerial view of Parramatta. Image Salty Dingo "Having attracted 74 expressions of interest involving a staggering 529 individual firms from 20 countries, the level of global interest we received has more than justified our excitement in moving forward with this Western Sydney project. "I am particularly thrilled to see our finalist teams include Australian lead firms, collaborations between emerging and seasoned practices and between Australian and international talent who have been inspired by the opportunity this bold and exciting project offers." "This major investment by the NSW Government will enrich the cultural lives of people in Western Sydney, boost the local economy, create jobs and draw visitors from Australia and world-wide." The six finalists will now attend a site visit in June 2019 and will have three months to develop their concept designs, which will be shown to the public in a physical exhibition and online gallery before the international jury meets. The finalists were selected by a Shortlisting Panel led by Jury Chair, Naomi Milgrom AO and including competition jury members Kim Crestani, City Architect, City of Parramatta Council; David Gianotten, Managing Partner Architect, OMA; Lisa Havilah, Chief Executive, MAAS; Wendy Lewin FRAIA, Principal, Wendy Lewin Architect; and David Riches, Head of Projects, Infrastructure NSW. No design was sought at the competitions first stage competitors made submissions based on an outline response to the project brief, past experience and team composition. View of the site from the north bank of the Parramatta River (facing south). Image MRC / Dianna Snape The Powerhouse museum, the centerpiece of a new arts and cultural precinct, will house Australias largest and most advanced planetarium with ultra-high-resolution 3D video and multi-channel immersive audio. Each finalist team will receive an honorarium of AUD $150,000. The competition process has been endorsed by the Australian Institute of Architects (AIA). The winner announcement is expected in late 2019. The competition is being organised by independent specialists Malcolm Reading Consultants (MRC). Top image (from left to right): AL_A ans Architectus, Team Bernardes Architecture and Scale Architecture, Team BVN Architecture and Carlo Ratti Associati, Team CHROFI with Reko Rennie, Team Moreau Kusunoki and Genton, Team Steven Holl Architects and Conrad Gargett. Image courtesy of MRC > via MRC Belgium's deputy commissioner-general Aldwin Dekkers became the first envoy from a participating country in Expo 2020 Dubai to be issued with an establishment card by General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs in Dubai (GDRFA). Reem bint Ibrahim Al Hashemy, Minister of State for International Cooperation and Director-General of Bureau Expo Dubai 2020, and Major General Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, Director-General of GDRFA, handed over the establishment card to Dekkers. The card was issued in the presence of Najeeb Al Ali, the executive director of Expo Dubai 2020 Bureau; Major General Obaid Muhair bin Suroor, the deputy director-general of the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs in Dubai; Colonel Dr Omar Al Shamsi, Assistant Director-General of Entry and Residency Permits Sector in GDRFA Dubai; Major Salam bin Ali, the General Coordinator of Expo 2020 in GDRFA Dubai, and a number of officials from both parties. Speaking at the event, Al Hashemy praised the efforts of Dubai's GDRFA and its continued support for facilitating the participation of various countries in Expo 2020 in line with the slogan Connecting the Minds, Creating the Future. She stressed the importance of the role of government entities in supporting this national project and its contribution to preparations for the global event, adding that the concerted efforts of all governmental institutions at both federal and local levels are critical in the organisation of an exceptional World Expo worthy of the UAE. Major General Al Marri said that GDRFA Dubai was working to facilitate the entry and the exit procedures of Expo 2020 Dubai participants with smart systems. Participants can obtain various types of visas through this smart platform within seconds of completing all documentation, and establishment cards can be issued electronically within a few minutes of the submission of an application, he added. He said that following the UAE's successful bid for the event, GDRFA Dubai formed an integrated core team comprising of a higher committee under the follow-up of Maj. Gen. Obaid Muhair Bin Suroor, supported by an executive committee headed by Brig. Talal Al Shanqeti, the Assistant Director-General of Airports Affairs and Col. Dr. Omar Al Shamsi. Al Marri noted that GDRFA Dubai is gearing up to process 45,000 transactions per day. All applications will be processed through Artificial Intelligence systems, he added. Nearly 25 million visitors are expected to visit the Expo 2020 between October 2020 and April 2021, with more than 70 percent of visitors coming from outside the UAE. It is also the first world expo to be held in the Middle East, Africa and South Asia, and the largest event of its kind in the Arab world with nearly 192 countries having confirmed their participation.-TradeArabia News Service Megan Garber in The Atlantic: A scene near the end of the new documentary Knock Down the House finds Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, five days after her surprise win in the 2018 primary, visiting the landmark that would soon become her office. Perched on a ledge in front of the U.S. Capitol, the building sprawling and gleaming in the midsummer sun, the Democratic nominee for New Yorks 14th Congressional District talks about an earlier visit to Washington, D.C. When I was a little girl, my dad wanted to go on a road trip with his buddies, she says. I wanted to go so badly. And I begged and I begged and I begged, and he relented. And so it was like four grown men and a 5-year-old girl went on this road trip from New York. And we stoppedwe stopped here. Her voice catches; a tear trickles down her cheek. She ran for Congress, Knock Down the House has made clear, in part because of her dads death. And it was a really beautiful day, she continues, and he leaned down next to me, and he pointed at the Washington Monument, and he pointed at the reflecting pool, and he pointed at everything, and he saidher voice catches againhe said, You know, this all belongs to us. He said, This is our government. It belongs to us. She wipes another tear before it falls off her cheek. So all of this stuff is yours. More here. Larissa Pham at Poetry Magazine: Mao was born in Wuhan, China, and moved to the United States at age five. She draws upon her experience of Chinese and Asian American visual culture, which saturates the book with allusions so dense the text requires endnotes. Her landscape is the detritus of television and cinema and internet webcams, the jetstream of the image in an era when most everything has become visual matter. In the aforementioned interview with the Creative Independent, Mao describes the themes at the heart of Oculus: Its obsessed with spectacle and being looked at, but it also is aware of all the violence that comes with being looked at. Occidentalism, a poem early in the book, is a useful guide for how to read the collection. Its subject is the world of text: A man celebrates erstwhile conquests, / his book locked in a silo, still in print. // I scribble, make Sharpie lines, deface / its text like it defaces me. more here. Mixed Breeds "I'll be honest, these are my all-time favorite dogs, says Joanne Yohannan, senior vice president of operations at the North Shore Animal League America, in Port Washington, New York. For one thing, they tend to be healthier than purebred dogs, who often suffer from hereditary diseases as a result of inbreeding. Many believe they have better dispositions to boot. That said, Mixed breed dogs, particularly when they're younger, can be more of a wild card, says Klein. If you get them as puppies, it's not always easy to predict what you'll end up with in terms of size, activity level and temperament. Rescues It also can be wonderful to give a home to a stray, abandoned or surrendered dog of uncertain breeding through shelters and rescue groups. Adoption not only moves an animal from vulnerability to safety, says Julia Umansky, director of admissions and matchmaking at the ASPCA Adoption Center in New York City, it creates space at the shelter and moves more resources and attention to the remaining animals. Visit ASPCA, The Shelter Pet Project or RescueGroups.org to find your new best friend. Older Dogs And while, yes, puppies are adorable, adopting an older pooch has its advantages. Puppies are usually going to be a lot more work than an adult dog socializing, house-breaking, says Nick Hof, owner of Paws Look Listen dog training in Cincinnati. Adult dogs are generally more well-mannered and don't require as much supervision and training in the beginning to prevent problematic behaviors as they get older. Some shelters have started offering adoption discounts for older people looking for older canines. North Shore Animal League America, for example, has a Seniors for Seniors program for those 60 and up. If you adopt an animal who's at least 4 years old, there's a flat adoption fee of $l50 that covers everything, including vaccinations and spay and neutering, as well as $15 twice-a-year grooming for the life of your pet. Foster Pups And if you don't want a long-term commitment, you could think about becoming a foster parent, says North Shore's Yohannan: You get the benefit of helping these animals and the companionship at the same time. InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG), one of the worlds leading hotel companies, said it aims to increase the number of hotel rooms across the Middle East region by almost 30 per cent in the next three to five years, as the company opens 37 hotels in its current pipeline. With a strong presence across segments, IHGs current hotel portfolio in the Middle East includes brands such as InterContinental Hotels and Resorts, Crowne Plaza, Holiday Inn, Holiday Inn Express, Staybridge Suites and the newly launched upscale brand, voco. In line with the strategy to accelerate growth, in 2018, IHG had its highest number of signings in MEA in a decade, with the addition of 21 hotels and over 5,200 rooms to its pipeline, said the top hospitality group. In 2019 thus far, the company has signed six hotels in the Middle East and a Master Development Agreement in Africa, it added. Earlier this month, the company debuted its upscale brand voco in the region with its launch in Dubai on Sheikh Zayed Road. IHG will also be unveiling the first Hotel Indigo in the Middle East, in the city later this year. Along with a focus on upscale and luxury offerings, IHG said it has dedicated efforts to increase its midscale portfolio in the region, which currently represent almost half (46 per cent) of its upcoming projects. Consolidating this commitment, IHG signed two Holiday Inn hotels in Saudi Arabia and two Staybridge Suites properties in Dubai earlier this month, both of which represent priority markets for the company, said a statement. On the expansion plans, Pascal Gauvin, the managing director, (India, Middle East and Africa), said: "We have a long-standing history in the Middle East, and we remain committed to the region. With the progress of significant strategic initiatives such as Saudi Vision 2030 and Dubai Expo 2020 to promote the region, we see tremendous opportunities to grow further and diversify our offering to suit varied guest profiles." "We are focused on developing scale by building on our well-established relationships with long-standing partners and collaborating with new owners to drive growth across key markets within the Middle East. Bastien Blanc, VP (Operations) Middle East, said: "IHG was the first international hotel brand to enter the Middle East almost 60 years ago and since then we have built a solid portfolio of offerings for a broad range of guests." "Saudi Arabia and UAE remain priority markets for us and various strategic initiatives by the government are set to boost the appeal of both destinations to diverse categories of travellers, across the world," he stated. "As a global operator with a strong portfolio of preferred brands, robust revenue delivery systems and distribution networks, extensive MICE capabilities, as well as a loyalty program with global scale, we are rapidly emerging as the preferred partner across hotel segments that include family and leisure travel, religious tourism, luxury stays and business travel as well," he added.-TradeArabia News Service Royal Jordanian (RJ) recorded an 8 per cent increase in operating profits in 2018, reaching JD653.3 million ($921.4 million) from the JD605.8 million ($854.4 million) registered in 2017, chairman of RJs Board of Directors, Said Darwazah, announced earlier this week. Darwazah attributed the increase to a 4 per cent jump in the number of passengers, from 3.1 million in 2017 to 3.3 million in 2018, which increased the load factor from 71.2 per cent in 2017 to 73.8 per cent in 2018. The financial results were announced during RJs general assembly meeting on April 28, which discussed the boards report on the 2018 financial results and the business perspectives for 2019. He pointed out that RJs net profits would have been higher if it had not been for the increase in fuel prices, which raised the total operational costs from JD527 million ($743.3 million) in 2017 to JD563 million ($794 million) in 2018, a significant 7 per cent increase. RJ paid JD38 million ($53.5 million), or 31 per cent, more for fuel in 2018 (JD159.3 million/$224.2 million) than in 2017, when it paid JD121.5 million ($171.3 million). The fuel cost constitutes 28 per cent of the total operating cost. RJ president/CEO Stefan Pichler made a presentation to the shareholders, and said that despite the rising fuel costs, RJ had an enhanced operating performance, registering a net operating profit of JD19 million ($26.7 million), an increase of 47 per cent over 2017, due to the JD47.5 million ($66.9 million) growth in revenues, a higher load factor and passenger numbers, cargo revenue, ancillary revenue and others. He said that cargo sales also improved significantly; the company sold 55 per cent of the capacity offered for cargo on passenger aircraft, which resulted in JD45.6 million ($64.3 million) cargo revenues, a 12 per cent increase over 2017. Pichler added that RJ continued to enhance its digital capabilities, resulting in 27 per cent more online sales, with a value of JD77.8 million ($109.7 million). Regarding the end-of-year financial results, Pichler said that RJ achieved a 14 per cent increase in the gross profit in 2018, when it made JD90.4 million ($127.5 million) against JD79.5 million ($112.1 million) in 2017. However, the company recorded a net loss of JD5.9 million ($8.3 million) in 2018, while it achieved JD274,000 ($386,460) in net profits in 2017, due to the losses incurred from the operations of Royal Wings and the difference in exchange rates, mainly of the Sudanese pound. He said that the decreased exchange rate of the Sundanese pound made RJ lose JD4.2 million ($5.9 million), and the Royal Wings losses made RJ incur JD3.9 million ($5.5 million) losses. RJ halted its operation to Sudan at the beginning of March 2019. It also suspended the Royal Wings operation at the end of November 2018. - TradeArabia News Service After leading Roncalli girls to title, Larson honored as coach of the year The South Dakota Sportswriter Awards were announced, and Roncalli Head Coach Derek Larson, was named at the top prep girls coach in the state. Copyright 2019 Albuquerque Journal SANTA FE New Mexico public education officials said Wednesday that the state plans to offer technical support to the states 89 school districts and improve its own data tracking efforts in response to a landmark court ruling over public school spending filed by civil rights groups. In addition, school districts will have to provide plans to the state by October on how they intend to address deficiencies identified by the court ruling when it comes to teaching Native American students, English-language learners and those with disabilities, top Public Education Department officials told lawmakers during a hearing at the Roundhouse. Were trying to get to that point where we can really track those pieces, Public Education Secretary Karen Trujillo said. We want to make sure that what were doing is working for kids. However, attorneys for the plaintiffs in the court case expressed concern Wednesday that most of a $447 million spending infusion for public schools a 16 percent increase over current levels will end up being spent on state-mandated 6 percent pay raises for teachers and administrators, and not on programs for students. Gail Evans, lead counsel for one of the two groups of plaintiffs, said lawmakers were warned about the situation during the 60-day legislative session that ended in March. The court made it really clear that at-risk students had to be provided with more services, Evans told the Journal. What came to be known as the Yazzie-Martinez lawsuit was filed by the New Mexico Center on Law and Poverty and the Mexican American Legal Defense and Educational Fund in 2014, arguing the state has been breaking its constitutional obligation to provide a sufficient education to all children. After a lengthy trial, a state judge ruled last summer that New Mexico was not meeting its constitutional requirement to provide an adequate education to all students, especially minorities and those from low-income families. In response, legislators tapped an unprecedented revenue windfall during this years session to authorize the educator pay raises, while also extending the school year and allocating an additional $115 million through the states funding formula to school districts with a large number of low-income students. Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham, a Democrat who took office in January, has decided not to appeal the judges ruling but has said her administration will litigate aggressively in an attempt to avoid long-term court oversight of the states public schools. Although District Court Judge Sarah Singleton gave state lawmakers an April 15 deadline to come up with a plan to comply with her ruling, no court hearing on the matter has been scheduled. Instead, both PED officials and plaintiff attorneys said they expect the judge to keep the case open while monitoring developments, allowing both sides to file motions and present evidence. During Wednesdays hearing at the state Capitol, several lawmakers touted the PEDs plans as a step in the right direction. But Sen. John Arthur Smith, D-Deming, chairman of the Legislative Finance Committee, said lawmakers have been criticized in some corners for not providing a large enough funding increase for public schools, while others have said it will be difficult to efficiently spend the budget infusion. The Legislature is sort of damned if we do or damned if we dont, Smith said. The plan laid out Wednesday by PED officials includes an assessment to determine what cultural and linguistic programs districts already provide. Those found to be lacking such programs could receive training and other assistance from the state agency, Education Deputy Secretary Kara Bobroff said. PED officials also touted an expected increase in participation in summer school and prekindergarten programs and said they should have more data to present to lawmakers by the 2020 legislative session. We do feel like were going to show results, and if we do that, its going to have an economic development impact by freeing up parents and increasing teacher compensation, Trujillo said. SANTA FE Sen. John Arthur Smith had some sharp words Wednesday for Santa Fe Public Schools administrators and board members during a meeting of the Legislative Finance Committee at the Roundhouse. Smith, D-Deming, referenced recent comments by some Santa Fe school board members published by the Journal North that criticized lawmakers for not allocating more money for public schools despite a $447 million increase for education statewide, a 16 percent boost. The increase was aimed at bringing the state into compliance with a landmark court ruling that found New Mexico is failing to provide a sufficient education to all students. Lawmakers approved the increase amid a giant revenue boost for state government from an oil and gas boom. Specifically, the influential lawmaker took Santa Fe school officials to task for using money from a real estate sale to pay for operating expenses during the current school year. The management team in Santa Fe used nonrecurring revenue as part of their recurring budget, said Smith, chairman of the LFC. Thats total and complete mismanagement as far as Im concerned, he added. Santa Fe Public Schools last year spent some one-time money it received from the sale of the old Alvord School to help pay for some programs. At a school board meeting last month, board members Steven Carrillo and Maureen Cashmon criticized the Legislature for not doing more to support education. Cashmon said the unit value used to determine how much money school districts get from the state for each student isnt large enough to cover both mandated 6 percent pay raises for educators and improving school programs. It needed to cover getting our kids up out of 49th in the country and give our staff something decent to live on, said Cashmon, who described the increase in education funding as merely a baby step. Carrillo has criticized the Legislature for celebrating the increase in educating spending as if they had recreated the wheel. You did not do your job, Carrillo said of the Legislature, adding that it could have come up with more money by eliminating tax cuts implemented in past years. During that board meeting, Board President Kate Noble said she didnt think it helped to rail against legislators, who she described as good people trying to get money to the schools amid other demands. Told of the senators comments on Wednesday, Carrillo said, I would say hes very misinformed about how we allocated those funds, referring to the money from the Alvord School sale. They were used primary for pilot programs used for teacher innovation and student support, Carrillo said. Cashmon did not return a phone message Wednesday. Copyright 2019 Albuquerque Journal An armed robbery suspect is still in the hospital a month after he was shot and paralyzed during a gunfight with officers in a neighborhood off East Central, according to court records. Albuquerque Police Department spokesman Gilbert Gallegos said 19-year-old Dominic Detwiler will be charged and booked into jail after he recovers from his injuries. According to court records, Detwiler is in stable condition, but one of the officers bullets struck his vertebrae, causing paralysis. Once booked, he will face three counts of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon on a police officer and one count of robbery. Officers responded to a home invasion around 9 p.m. April 18 in the 500 block of Vermont NE, northwest of Copper and Wyoming. A man called 911 to report a man kicked in his door and robbed him at gunpoint, taking jewelry and other items. Police say three officers ran into Detwiler, who matched the suspects description, in the parking lot of an apartment complex. Detwiler immediately became combative and wouldnt obey officers commands. Detwiler produced a handgun and started shooting at the three police officers several times, an officer wrote in court documents. The officers returned fire to stop Mr. Detwilers actions, fearing they would be shot or killed. According to court records, Detwiler fell to the ground and was taken into custody. He was taken to UNM Hospital where Mr. Detwiler is now in stable condition, according to court records. One of the bullets had struck his vertebrae, causing paralysis. Its unclear whether Detwiler is permanently paralyzed. Detwilers family declined to comment. A document attached to a motion to revoke probation filed in Metropolitan Court sheds light on the shooting specifics and resulting injuries. Detwiler had been on probation since September after drug and gun charges in separate cases. Three of the cases involve Detwiler selling drugs to undercover New Mexico State Police agents, and another arrest occurred when a Rio Rancho Police officer pulled over Detwiler and found him with a loaded gun, methamphetamine and heroin. The shooting marks the second time Albuquerque police fired at and injured a suspect this year. The first was April 5, when an officer shot Pedro Escalante, 26, during a foot chase near Grove and Bell SE after, police say, Escalante flashed a gun at them. An Albuquerque man is accused of beating his girlfriend with a belt, broom and his fists so severely last weekend that doctors had to remove half the womans skull to save her life, but they are unsure whether she will recover. Mark Guerro, 46, was booked into the Metropolitan Detention Center on Wednesday and charged with attempted murder in a May 5 attack on his girlfriend, 36-year-old Judith Apache, at a South Valley apartment. Deputies say this is not the first time. In June 2018, Apache was hospitalized with a brain bleed after a fight with Guerro on the tribal lands of Tohajiilee. She still had staples and a tube in her head from that incident. According to a criminal complaint filed in Metropolitan Court, deputies responded to an overdose call around midnight Sunday at an apartment in the 2600 block of Isleta SW, near Blake. They found Apache unconscious on the ground with nearly her entire body covered in purple and black bruises. Guerro initially told deputies the couple had drank several pints of vodka and, after Apache fell asleep, he could not wake her. When asked about Apaches bruises, he told them she had been falling a lot recently. Deputies say that doctors at the University of New Mexico Hospital had to remove half of Apaches skull to relieve pressure due to a brain bleed and she could die at any time. To sustain such bruising across her body, doctors said Apache would have to fall from a mountain or some decent height. The nurse on duty told deputies she remembered Guerro and Apache from June 2018, when Apache was admitted for a brain bleed to the left side of her head. At that time, Guerro told doctors she had fallen and hit her head on the tub. Deputies say Apaches sister told them the 2018 incident happened on the reservation, and Navajo Police did not make a report or do any follow up investigation. The sister was granted full custody of the couples young daughter due to violence in the relationship. Guerro told deputies that Saturday night he started spanking her with a belt repeatedly. When Apache got angry, Guerro said, he hit her and doesnt remember how many times but it probably resulted in her head hitting the concrete. Deputies say Guerro told them he also sodomized Apache with a broomstick at some point before he began to cry and said he didnt mean to do it. WASHINGTON Conservatives sometimes accuse the academic left of ignoring the good in American history and emphasizing the horrors. But in some respects, the typical telling of the American story does not focus enough on the horrors. As I recall from my distant youth, American history texts dealt with the run-up to the Civil War, then the war itself, then the failure of Reconstruction, before moving on to the Gilded Age and progressive reform. But the failure of Reconstruction was not just a disembodied fact but a planned and ruthless act of sabotage. As Henry Louis Gates Jr.s new book, Stony the Road: Reconstruction, White Supremacy, and the Rise of Jim Crow, effectively reminds us, the period of history following the Civil War involved a violent campaign to reverse the social, political and economic outcomes of the conflict. And this effort which southerners called Redemption was successful in almost every respect. With the defeat of the Confederacy, the federal governments enforcement of civil and voting rights was beginning to work a revolution. Hundreds of thousands of African American citizens registered to vote and eventually elected an estimated two thousand black officials at every level of government. The Freedmens Bureau helped former slaves in matters ranging from land rights to education. Families divided by slavery were reunited. Workers transitioned into a wage system. The process was difficult but hopeful. The white South, however, was having none of it. A broad counterattack was mounted to undo the work of the 13th, 14th and 15th amendments. This involved a campaign of murder and intimidation to disenfranchise black Republicans and the imposition of economic systems sharecropping and convict labor that effectively recreated the conditions of slavery. By 1875 just a decade after the war ended white rule was reestablished in all but three southern states. At first, Republicans such as President Ulysses S. Grant tried to help southern blacks through armed interventions by federal troops. But this policy proved politically unpopular and was abandoned. The reimposition of white rule was a bloody, unpunished historical crime. The depth of the reaction against the demands that the Negro have the right to vote, Gates argues, and the sheer range of racist vehemence and terrorism that arose to neutralize that right is stunning to contemplate. Between 1868 and 1871, an estimated 400 African Americans were lynched across the South. About 30 were executed on a single day in Meridian, Mississippi. The killers often roving bands of former Confederate soldiers acted with total impunity. By 1890, South Carolina Sen. Ben Tillman was crowing: The triumph of Democracy and white supremacy over mongrelism and anarchy is most complete. Those interested in this period will find Eric Foners Reconstruction: Americas Unfinished Revolution more thorough, and Nicholas Lemanns Redemption: The Last Battle of the Civil War more emotionally engaging, but Gates valuable book goes further. He recounts the massive, seemingly coordinated betrayal of black citizens following Redemption by every white institution. How the Supreme Court gutted civil rights protections. How the scientific community justified white supremacy with bogus research. How white churches ignored or blessed oppression. How the world of advertising adopted demeaning black stereotypes to sell soap and cereal. How the world of movies and literature popularized the myth of the Lost Cause, in which Reconstruction was a period of carpetbagger oppression and black people really longed for the security of the plantation. Gates is especially insightful in revealing how black people, after their constitutional rights were stolen, attempted to reassert their dignity in non-political ways. Through Booker T. Washingtons version of self-help. Or by cultivating the achievements of W.E.B Dubois talented tenth. Or through the artistic excellence of the Harlem Renaissance. Or through pan-African pride. Ultimately, Gates argues that Frederick Douglass got closest to the truth that there is no path to pride and equality that does not include political power, particularly voting rights. This was the main theme of the NAACP and, eventually, of Martin Luther King Jr. It is a tribute to the importance of justice as the first human need. The denial of justice recounted by Stony the Road was every bit as bad as apartheid. It was not just racism, but the systematic attempt to destroy through violence, threats and mockery the dignity, political rights and social standing of blacks in America. It was far worse than anything I was taught in history classes. Yet only by knowing this period can we understand how white supremacy became the broadly accepted, and sadly durable, ideology of white America. E-mail michaelgerson@washpost.com. 2019, Washington Post Writers Group. WASHINGTON There are roughly eight million plant and animal species in the world. One of them homo sapiens may soon wipe out a million of the rest. And were just getting started. Thats the depressing bottom line from a comprehensive new United Nations report on biodiversity. Species are going extinct at a rate unmatched in human history and the die-off is accelerating. It sounds melodramatic to say were killing the planet, but thats what scientific evidence tells us. And ignorant, short-sighted leadership makes optimistic scenarios elusive. Species extinction is one of those problems whose vast scale, in space and time, makes it difficult to comprehend, let alone address globally. As any paleontologist can tell you, species appear and disappear naturally at a gradual rate with no human intervention. And in the 3.5 billion-year history of life on earth, there have been five abrupt mass extinctions when more than three-quarters of all living species were quickly wiped out. The most recent came 66 million years ago, when an asteroid strike is believed to have killed off the dinosaurs. If there are intelligent observers 66 million years from now, their scientists may conclude the sixth mass extinction was caused by us and that we saw what we were doing but lacked the wisdom and courage to stop ourselves. The next species to go extinct may be some scruffy weed-like plant or weird little insect that youve never heard of. But that weed may synthesize a chemical that acts as a magic bullet against certain deadly cancers, or that insect may control the population of some other insect that harbors a plaguelike virus. Well never know. Theyll be gone. Amphibians, marine mammals and corals are critically endangered, the report says. If you dream of a trip to see the Great Barrier Reef, I wouldnt put it off. A summary of the report by the UN-sponsored Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services was released Monday in Paris, culminating years of work by leading environmental scientists around the globe. Its findings will be widely noted and lamented; its recommendations, I fear, widely ignored. For once, human-induced climate change is only the second-most-egregious cause of a slow-motion global catastrophe. The primary cause of accelerating species loss, according to the report, is rapid change in patterns of land- and sea-usage. Farming, fishing, logging, mining and other activities are changing in many cases, deeply scarring the natural world. We knew that, of course. Sea captains have told us about the enormous patch of plastic trash floating in the Pacific Ocean. Satellite photos chart the ongoing destruction of the Amazon rain forest. The report states over 85 percent of the worlds wetlands have been eliminated over the past three centuries. The amount of land designated as urban has doubled since 1992. Malthusian predictions that rapid population growth would lead to scarcity and famine have proved spectacularly wrong. The global middle class has ballooned, while the percentage of humans living in extreme poverty has shrunk to levels never dreamed of. But all that economic growth has put an unprecedented strain on the natural world, and scientists can only sketch the ultimate consequences. In effect, we are running a fateful experiment with our planet and theres no chance of a do-over. I have enormous faith in human ingenuity. But it needs to be accompanied by some basic common sense. One example: Of the worlds 7.5 billion people, nearly 5 billion have mobile phones. The incredible spread of that one technology greatly boosts global connectivity, creativity and happiness and also creates enormous quantities of manufacturing waste and discernable plastic. We need to keep expanding access to this life-changing technology. But we need to find cleaner, more sustainable ways of doing so. Whether were talking about species loss or climate change, whether were considering the smog that shrouds Beijing and New Delhi or the fracking fluids being pumped into the ground in Appalachia, at some point were going to realize that development that fails to take sustainability into account is not a step forward. Its a step into the unknown, and potentially a step toward disaster. The question isnt if we come to this realization and begin to act accordingly, but when. The new UN report says that for up to a million species, many of which we havent even identified and studied, our enlightenment may come too late. We can only hope there is still time to save the one we call our own. It looks like positive change is once again coming to the ranks of the Albuquerque Police Department due in part to civilians APD is sworn to serve. A recap: in one of its first cases with major public interest, the Civilian Police Oversight Agency weighed in on double-dipping overtime practices. Albuquerque Police Officer Simon Drobik and a supervisor found themselves in the hot seat after it came to light Drobik was working on-call as one of the departments media contacts at the same time he was stationed outside a private business through the Chiefs Overtime program and getting paid for both, even if he left one post to tend to the other. The practice, which appeared to violate department policy, was guaranteed to short-change businesses and/or taxpayers while helping Drobik rack up $192,973 in pay in 2018. The civilian oversight committee raised a number of concerns with current policies, proposed several changes and ultimately recommended Drobik get the ax. In response to the boards recommendations, Police Chief Michael Geier has committed to revamping overtime policies, and more specifically, to ending overlap between Chiefs Overtime, on-call time and comp time accrual. Its an important indicator this chief listens to this board. After the committees recommendations were released, the Journal cautioned on April 18 that canning one officer would amount to scapegoating for a practice a supervisor signed off on and that may well be widespread in the department. Whether the abuse has been commonplace or not, Geier allowed Drobik, who surrendered his comp time as repayment, to keep his job. Geier is also reviewing the supervisors actions. It was the right move. And it should in no way discount the input from the committee, which was born out of the chaos of APDs most troubled years and is an important element of the departments effort to build community trust. The Civilian Police Oversight Agency ensured the overtime issue got a major sussing out and the public stayed informed. It turns out the largest law enforcement agency in New Mexico for years has been operating on a cobbled-together set of overtime policies borne of understaffing, exceptions, an honor system and half-implemented reforms. Even though Geier didnt accept every one of their recommendations, committee members can be proud to have helped initiate changes to make APD more responsible to those it serves. And Geier was right to take their recommendations seriously, pledging there will be no more inconsistencies and widespread confusion among officers about overtime practices. We are moving away from what was essentially an honor system and forward with a plan to modernize overtime at APD and clean up the process. As we continue to hire more officers, the time is right to fix this problem and ensure accountability. And that should help ensure a fairer and more accountable overtime system for officers, taxpayers and private entities that contract with APD for security. This editorial first appeared in the Albuquerque Journal. It was written by members of the editorial board and is unsigned as it represents the opinion of the newspaper rather than the writers. U.S. Postal Service letter carriers in the Albuquerque metro area and communities around the state will be placing blue bags in residential mailboxes this week as part of the annual Stamp Out Hunger spring food drive, which will be held Saturday. Residents are encouraged to fill the bags, or any bags or boxes, with non-perishable food items and leave them on top of or adjacent to their mail boxes for Saturday pickup at the regular time when letter carriers deliver the mail. The letter carriers will return the food to the post office branches out of which they work, where staff and volunteers from Roadrunner Food Bank will transfer the items to Roadrunner trucks for transport to the food banks warehouse, where it will be sorted for distribution. The food drive is not limited to New Mexico. The National Association of Letter Carriers and the U.S. Postal Service will be conducting similar drives on Saturday in more than 10,000 communities around the country. Roadrunner spokeswoman Sonya Warwick said the spring and fall Stamp Out Hunger food drives conducted in conjunction with the postal system are combined the largest food drives to benefit Roadrunner Food Bank. The spring drive generally brings in 175,000 to about 200,000 pounds of nonperishable foods; the fall drive typically brings in 180,000 to 225,000 pounds of food, she said. This years food drive is critical. Weve been seeing less available food product in our warehouse inventory and this will help us prepare for the hungriest time of the year, when kids are home for the summer, Warwick said. The reasons for the food shortage are not entirely clear, she said, but it has been affecting the availability of non perishable food items at food banks across the country. There is also a shortage of perishable food items, particularly produce. A large portion of that comes from food banks in the Southwest that get produce originating in Mexico. However, adverse weather in Mexico has limited available produce to food banks, Warwick said. Roadrunner Food Bank part of the Feeding America national network of food banks distributes more than 32 million pounds of food yearly, which it supplies through a network of about 500 pantries and meal sites around the state that collectively feed 70,000 people weekly. SANTA FE Electric scooter rental companies may eventually make their way to Santa Fe, but not without first getting the citys endorsement. The City Council on Wednesday approved two accompanying pieces of legislation relating to electric scooters. One adds the term electric scooter to the citys traffic code and prohibits the use of rented electric scooters on public streets, sidewalks, parks and other public spaces unless the City Council adopts a pilot program that allows them. They council passed that proposal unanimously. The other is a resolution that directs the city manager to evaluate whether shared electric scooters are suitable for Santa Fe and to make a recommendation as to whether it was appropriate for the City Council to consider developing a pilot program. The resolution was approved 7-2, with councilors Mike Harris and JoAnne Vigil Coppler voting against it. Councilor Carol Romero-Wirth, who is sponsoring both proposals along with Councilor Signe Lindell, said it may turn out that it is determined that rental electric scooters should only be allowed in some parts of town. She said that GPS systems may help control where scooters go, but we also need rules if we allow it. Currently, there are no electric scooter rental operations in Santa Fe, although city officials have said that companies have inquired about doing business in town. The proposed ordinance change prohibiting rental electric scooters in public rights-of-way would not apply to scooters owned by individuals. The concept of shared electric scooters has been gaining traction in cities in the United States and around the world. Some cities consider them a nuisance or dangerous and have banned them. Others have accepted them and adopted rules governing where they can travel and where they can be left for the next rider to pick up. Typically, an app is used by scooter renters to find the scooters, pay a fee and leave notice where they were left. Wednesdays meeting included a public hearing, but just one person spoke on the issue. These scooters can really be a menace, said Linda Bunton, adding that she saw what a problem they could be on a recent trip to Singapore. While councilors Harris and Vigil Coppler expressed unfavorable feelings toward electric scooters, City Councilor Roman Abeyta of south side District 3, said he could see how some of his constituents would consider electric scooters as a mode of transportation. SANTA FE Former CIA operative and author Valerie Plame officially announced her candidacy Thursday for an open U.S. congressional seat in northern New Mexico, joining several other Democrats in an increasingly crowded race. Plame, who has not run for elected office before, filed paperwork with the Federal Election Commission this week and said in an interview the timing is right to run for the 3rd Congressional District seat in 2020. I like the idea that maybe I get to serve my country again, she told the Journal. Plame became a national figure after her identity as a CIA operative was leaked by an official in President George W. Bushs administration in 2003 in an effort to discredit her then-husband Joe Wilson. Wilson is a former diplomat who criticized Bushs decision to invade Iraq. Plame left the agency in 2005 and moved to Santa Fe in 2007. Plame, whose work with the CIA focused on stopping nuclear proliferation, said in her Thursday campaign announcement she would work as hard representing New Mexico in Congress as she had defending our country from nuclear threats. She also said she was trained to manage multimillion-dollar budgets and run covert operations for the CIA not typical skills for a congressional candidate. I like to think they added up to who I am today, she said. Im not a career politician but Im figuring it out. Plame, who described herself as a progressive Democrat, cited access to health care, rising prescription drug costs, education and economic opportunity as top priorities if elected. While opponents could question her ties to New Mexico, Plame said the state has become her heart and that she has now lived here longer than anywhere else in her life. But she could face scrutiny for the 2017 sharing of an article on social media that some called anti-Semitic. Plame initially defended her actions but later apologized. The Twitter account she posted the apology on appeared Thursday to have been deleted. Meanwhile, the seat Plame is running for is currently held by U.S. Rep. Ben Ray Lujan, D-N.M, who announced last month he would run for the U.S. Senate seat being vacated by incumbent U.S. Sen. Tom Udall. Plame had previously said she was considering running for either the House seat or for Senate. Several other candidates are also vying for the Democratic-leaning congressional seat that stretches across the northern half of the state and encompasses Santa Fe, Rio Rancho, Clovis and Farmington, along with the Navajo Nation and other tribal lands. Santa Fe lawyer Teresa Leger, state Rep. Joseph Sanchez of Alcalde and Gavin Kaiser of Santa Cruz have all declared candidacies. Republican Brett Kokinadis of Santa Fe is the lone GOP candidate currently in the race, while 1st Judicial District Attorney Marco Serna, a Democrat, is also considering a run. New Mexicos primary election is scheduled for June 2, 2020, with the general election set for November 2020. MEXICO CITY People in overextended Mexican border cities are voicing concern over the continuation of a U.S. policy that makes Central American migrants seeking asylum in the United States wait south of the border. A U.S. federal appeals court ruled Tuesday that the Trump administration can make migrants wait in Mexico for their immigration hearings while the policy is challenged in court. On Wednesday night, Mexicos immigration agency said 4,217 Central American asylum seekers had already been returned through three border cities. The U.S. government has said it wants to expand the program along the entire border. Mexicos government did not comment following the court decision, but those closer to the issue did. The United States should resolve their problem there and not transfer it to us, said Mayor Armando Cabada of Ciudad Juarez, which lies across the border from El Paso, Texas. Juarez has received 1,344 returned asylum seekers more than any other city since the program started in San Diego on Jan. 29. The 11 Central Americans who are challenging the U.S. policy argue their safety has been put at risk by making them wait in Mexico for a process that could take years. Migrants in many Mexican border cities have typically made easy targets for organized crime gangs that kidnap them to extort money from relatives or try to recruit them into drug and human-trafficking businesses. Vicente Sanchez Munguia, a public administration researcher at the College of the Northern Border in Tijuana, said some border cities have suffered critical security situations for years. It would really expose the migrants to possible security threats, he said. The speed at which they process (asylum) cases in the United States could cause the number of people applying and waiting in Mexico to increase and create a critical situation. The policy requires asylum seekers who have already made their applications to report to the border on the days they have court hearings. U.S. government personnel transport them to court and then bring them back to the border afterward to re-enter Mexico. Clara Long, an investigator with Human Rights Watch researching the policy, known colloquially as remain in Mexico, said the returned migrants she interviewed were afraid. She interviewed one woman in Juarez this week who was raped while looking for a place to stay and another who was kidnapped and had to buy her release. They have no idea what to do to keep themselves safe, she said. Two families with young children who were returned to wait in Mexico last week were told Wednesday they had to leave the shelter where they had been staying, because they were only allowed seven days. They have no idea where theyre going to go and what theyre going to do, Long said. Some with relatives who could wire money were staying in cheap hotels, but often deciding between paying for a room and eating, she said. Others were squatting in abandoned homes around the city. Mexicos foreign relations ministry did not respond to requests for comment. The Mexican government has emphasized previously that the policy is a unilateral U.S. measure and that Mexico will focus on the humanitarian treatment of migrants. The U.S. government sees the policy in part as another deterrent to migrants seeking asylum. Whereas asylum seekers were often released into the U.S. after passing an initial credible fear interview, especially those with children, and told to return for court hearings, the new policy returns many to wait in Mexico. But the U.S. government has also been overwhelmed by the number of families from Central Americas Northern Triangle Honduras, El Salvador and Guatemala and says it does not have a place to house them. In April, the Border Patrol apprehended 109,144 migrants, the highest number since 2007. Claudia Portela of the Padre Chava shelter and food kitchen in Tijuana said some migrants in that situation have been staying there. It causes great uncertainty, insecurity, Portela said. Some can have an easier time if they get work permits in Mexico, but otherwise their lives are very precarious. They are going to be easy prey for organized crime, Portela said. Theyre vulnerable. ___ Associated Press journalist Salvador Gomez Pena in Ciudad Juarez contributed to this report. SEOUL, South Korea North Korea fired two suspected short-range missiles toward the sea on Thursday, South Korean officials said, its second weapons launch in five days and a possible warning that nuclear disarmament talks with Washington could be in danger. South Koreas Joint Chiefs of Staff said the weapons flew 420 kilometers (260 miles) and 270 kilometers (167 miles), respectively. It said it is working with the United States to determine more details, such as the types of weapons that were fired. North Korean state media said Friday that leader Kim Jong Un helped guide the firing of the missiles Thursday and learned about various long-range strike means, but the statement from the propaganda services didnt provide more specifics on the type of missiles fired. What was launched Thursday is a crucial detail, as North Korea is banned by the United Nations from testing ballistic missiles. Such a test could result in more sanctions, and the Norths so far unsuccessful push for large-scale sanctions relief is at the heart of the current diplomatic impasse with Washington. South Koreas military said earlier that at least one projectile was launched from the Sino-ri area of North Pyongan province, an area known to have one of North Koreas oldest missile bases where a brigade operates mid-range Rodong missiles. It later said there were two launches from the nearby town of Kusong, where North Korea conducted its first successful flight tests of its Hwasong-12 intermediate-range missile and Hwasong-14 intercontinental ballistic missile, both in 2017. Kusong is also home to missile test facilities that were critical to the development of North Koreas solid-fuel Pukguksong-2, which was successfully flight-tested for the first time in February 2017, in the Norths first missile test after President Donald Trump took office. The latest launches came as U.S. Special Representative for North Korea Stephen Biegun visited South Korea, and hours after the North described its firing of rocket artillery and an apparent short-range ballistic missile on Saturday as a regular and defensive military exercise. North Korea also ridiculed South Korea for criticizing those launches. President Donald Trump said he was not happy about North Koreas recent military tests. Trump told reporters at the White House on Thursday that were looking at the situation very seriously right now. He said the weapons were smaller, short-range missiles, but added: Nobodys happy about it. Trump, who has met with Kim twice now, said: I dont think theyre ready to negotiate. South Korean President Moon Jae-in urged North Korea to refrain from actions that could impede diplomacy. In an interview with the KBS television network, Moon also said Seoul will explore various options to help revive the talks, including providing food aid to the North and pushing for his fourth summit with Kim. I want to tell North Korea once again that its not ideal to repeat actions that create various interpretations of its intent, raise concern and risk throwing cold water on the atmosphere of dialogue and negotiations, said Moon, a liberal who facilitated contacts between the United States and North Korea last year. Moons office earlier said the North Korean launches were very concerning and detrimental to efforts to improve inter-Korean ties and ease military tensions on the Korean Peninsula. Some analysts have said that if North Korea resumes testing the kind of longer-range banned ballistic weapons that it fired in unusually large numbers in 2017 when many feared a U.S.-North Korea standoff could end in war it may signal that North Korea is turning away from diplomacy. The tensions in 2017 were followed by a surprising diplomatic outreach by North Korea in 2018, when Kim attended summits with the South Korean and Chinese presidents and with Trump. But North Korea has not received what it wants most from its summitry: relief from punitive sanctions imposed over its nuclear and missile programs. A summit earlier this year between Trump and Kim ended in failure, with the United States saying that North Korea was not offering to take enough disarmament steps in return for the widespread sanctions relief it sought. In Geneva on Thursday, North Korean Ambassador Han Tae Song likened the economic sanctions to crimes. Just ahead of the Thursday launch, senior defense officials from South Korea, the United States and Japan met in Seoul to discuss North Koreas earlier launches on Saturday and other security issues. Details from the meeting werent immediately announced. Experts who analyzed photos from North Korean state media say its clear that the North tested a new solid-fuel missile on Saturday that appears to be modeled after Russias Iskander short-range ballistic missile system. With the consecutive weapons launches, North Korea is pressuring South Korea to turn away from the United States and support North Koreas position more strongly, said Du Hyeogn Cha, a visiting scholar at Seouls Asan Institute for Policy Studies. Following the collapse of the Trump-Kim meeting, North Korea demanded that South Korea proceed with joint economic projects that have been held back by U.S.-led sanctions against the North. By firing weapons that directly threaten South Korea but not the U.S. mainland or its Pacific territories, North Korea also appears to be testing how far Washington will tolerate its bellicosity without actually causing the nuclear negotiations to collapse, Cha said. To the United States, the North is saying dont push me into a corner. To South Korea, the North is saying the inter-Korean peace agreements could become nothing if Seoul fails to coax major concessions from the United States on behalf of the North, Cha said. Some observers say North Korea may fire more missiles, including medium-range ones, to increase the pressure on the United States. Cha said North Korea isnt likely to fire longer-range missiles, such as its Hwasong-12 intermediate-range missiles and Hwasong-14 and 15 intercontinental ballistic missiles, unless it intends to completely abandon diplomacy since it is certain to invite new U.N. sanctions. North Korea last conducted a major missile test in November 2017 when it flight-tested the Hwasong-15 and demonstrated the potential capability to reach deep into the U.S. mainland. Experts think North Korea still needs more tests to make its ICBMs viable. Kim in a New Years speech said he hopes to continue his nuclear summitry with Trump, but would seek a new way if the United States persists with sanctions and pressure against North Korea. Following the collapse of his second summit with Trump in February, Kim said he is open to a third meeting, but set the end of the year as a deadline for Washington to offer mutually acceptable terms for an agreement. ___ Associated Press writer Jamie Keaten in Geneva contributed to this report. No business that locates in Rio Rancho is mandated to be a good community partner, and theres no law that it give back in any way, shape or form. McDonalds franchise owners Julian Garza and his daughter, Clemy, do those things anyway. Remember when the commercials for the hamburger joint proclaimed, At McDonalds, we do it all for you? It seems theyre still trying. The McDonalds on NM 528 in Rio Rancho hosted a graduation ceremony on April 11 for 39 English Under the Arches (EUA) graduates. The 39 celebrants, McDonalds employees who wanted to learn English to thrive in life and in their jobs, needed only to have been working at McDonalds for 90 days to qualify for free tuition to take classes in English at Central New Mexico Community College. The EUA program had 23 additional graduates from four northern New Mexico McDonalds restaurants. The courses were designed for single, working parents with a blended method of face-to-face and virtual classes, accomplished when time permitted. CNM also works with McDonalds to offer these employees English as a Second Language courses and, through Archways, they have an opportunity to earn an accredited high school diploma or college degree. The two big checks written by the Garzas were for $185,000 in CNMs tuition costs and one for more than $114,700 for other tuition assistance since April 2017, including the College Online High School program and tuition assistance programs available to all employees. Clemy Garza said she knows some of the McDonalds employees who took advantage, or will take advantage, of these programs wont necessarily be McDonalds employees for life or maybe even a few more months. Before, they couldnt get beyond the kitchen, she said, happy to see some promoted to counter work and interacting with customers. Soon, she said, financial literacy classes will be offered, as part of the ESL pathway. Were increasing their earning capacity, she added. Were working on a curriculum to start in the fall. Garza said that on May 13, McDonalds is also providing senior pictures for members of the Class of 2019 who live on the West Side and in Rio Rancho, with graduates choices of four settings. Summing up the local franchises involvement the Garzas have eight stores on the West Side and in Rio Rancho she said, Thats what benefits my community. Hamburger helpers Also intent on benefiting their community, every year, Sandia Vista Elementarys student council, made up of the older kids there the fifth-graders decide on a community project, or maybe several. This school year, the student council decided to focus on one recipient and selected Ronald McDonald House, where families of children with cancer can find lodging and stay close to their child in a nearby hospital. The fifth-graders recently visited the Ronald McDonald House in southeast Albuquerque and were impressed by what they saw. And, fifth-grade teacher and student council sponsor Jimmy Mares said, the school will donate more than $2,200 to Ronald McDonald House at an assembly on May 9, thanks to the ongoing Penny Wars. The grade that scores the most points will win a lunch, provided by McDonalds on Field Day at the school. Heres how the scoring works: All pennies are worth a penny apiece for the grade that collects them, but silver coins and dollar bills count as negative points. In other words, a $1 bill negates 100 pennies in a jug. Hence, students in fourth grade wanting to decrease the fifth-graders chance of winning may drop dollar bills there were some $5 bills evident in some jugs and quarters into the fifth-grade jug. Mares said he spent nearly five hours at a local bank last month, where the coins and bills were collected at that point. In March, the school also had a toiletry drive that amassed 4,000 items, also headed to Ronald McDonald House. MILWAUKEE Milwaukee has reached an agreement with Bird Rides Inc. over the electric scooters the company released on the citys streets last summer. The California-based company removed its scooters from Milwaukee streets last August in an agreement with the city to bring them back once a regulatory framework was in place. Terms of the settlement are not included in records filed Wednesday in federal court. An attorney for Bird Rides, Jonathan Hackbarth, told the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel he could not comment. The Milwaukee City Attorneys office did not immediately return a message Thursday. The settlement does not necessarily mean the scooters will soon return to Milwaukee streets. The scooters are not yet permitted under Wisconsin law. The electric scooters have proliferated in places across the country, often without warning to city officials who have grappled with how to regulate them. ___ Information from: Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, http://www.jsonline.com DOVER, Del. Attorneys for Tesla Inc. asked a Delaware judge Thursday to dismiss shareholders complaints over a compensation plan that could net CEO Elon Musk more than $50 billion over the next decade. A shareholder lawsuit filed last June alleges that Musk and Teslas board of directors breached their fiduciary duties to the company and its stockholders, granting unjust enrichment to Musk and wasting corporate assets. The lawsuit said the pay plan is not just excessive but unnecessary, and that it should be subject to court review because it was negotiated by a compensation committee and approved by a board whose members had conflicts because of personal and professional ties to Musk. Those numbers were negotiated by conflicted people, shareholder attorney David Tejtel argued Thursday, referring to the staggering sums involved in Musks compensation package. Under the plan, Musk could reap billions if the electric car and solar panel maker hits ambitious market capitalization and operational milestones. For each of 12 milestones the company achieves, Musk, who already owns more than 20% of Tesla, would get stock equal to 1% of outstanding shares at the time of the grant. Each milestone includes growing Teslas market capitalization by $50 billion and meeting aggressive revenue and pretax profit growth targets. Hes nowhere near getting paid a nickel as we speak, noted Vice Chancellor Joseph Slights III. Musk would receive the full benefit of the pay plan, $55.8 billion, only if he leads Tesla to a market capitalization of $650 billion and unprecedented revenues and earnings within a decade. If he doesnt generate outsized returns he gets nothing, Tesla attorney William Savitt said of the all-or-nothing package. It creates massively ambitious targets. After 15 years in business, Tesla has yet to turn a full-year net profit. Last month, the company reported a first-quarter loss of $702 million, more than double what analysts had expected and ranking among the companys worst quarters in the past two years. Savitt argued that the lawsuit fails to adequately allege that Musks new compensation package constitutes waste or is unfair to stockholders, who themselves would see significant benefits of their investment if the milestones are reached. Just because the pay proposal is unusual and on a grand scale doesnt make it unfair, said Savitt, who noted that at a special shareholder meeting last year it received the support of more than 70% of shares of common stock not owned by Musk or his brother, Kimbal Musk. Tejtel, the plaintiffs attorney, noted that the proposal did not earn the support of the majority of all of Teslas outstanding disinterested shares, but only a majority of shares represented at the meeting, either in person or by proxy. The failure to gain a majority of all outstanding shares means the deal is subject to court review, he argued. Under Delawares business judgment rule, deference is typically given to a corporate boards decision-making unless there is evidence that directors had conflicts or acted in bad faith. If a plaintiff is able to overcome the business judgment rules presumption, the boards action is then subject to an entire fairness analysis, which shifts the burden to the corporation to show that the deal involved both fair dealing and fair price. It seems that what were talking about here is scale, said Slights, who told attorneys he would try to issue a decision promptly. Shares in Tesla, based in Palo Alto, California, fell $2.86, or 1.17%, to close Thursday at $241.98. Copyright 2019 Albuquerque Journal SANTA FE New Mexico is engaged in a high-risk computer upgrade aimed at improving the delivery of Medicaid services a $201 million project endangered by repeated delays and other problems, legislative analysts say. Replacing the Medicaid information system is required by the federal government, analysts said, but the state has repeatedly missed targets for awarding contracts and encountered staffing problems since the work began in 2014, making it a high-risk project. The warning came Thursday in a report by analysts for the Legislative Finance Committee. They told lawmakers the state should improve oversight of the private vendors hired to handle much of the work and take other steps to keep the project on track. But analysts also highlighted some positive trends, which they attributed to active and focused leadership from new appointees leading the state Human Services Department. David Scrase, a longtime physician who took over Jan. 1 as secretary of human services, described the push to replace the Medicaid information system as the largest and most complex project in state government. He assured lawmakers Thursday that he and other top executives are moving to address past problems and complete the project successfully. The state has reassigned some duties originally given to vendors and is restructuring contracts, Scrase said. We understand the importance of holding our contractors accountable for their performance, he told a legislative hearing at the Capitol. The estimated completion of the project has already been pushed back two years, to the end of 2021. Scrase and Russell Toal, deputy secretary of human services, said the massive project has the potential to transform the way the state provides services. They envision people being able to use smartphones to apply for Medicaid or other assistance and getting immediate answers on their eligibility. The upgrade will also provide state officials with far greater data on Medicaid programs, allowing the state to better evaluate what works and where problems lie, they said. Lawmakers, in turn, asked the Human Services Department to provide a timeline that will allow them to monitor progress on the project. Rep. Patricia Lundstrom, a Gallup Democrat and vice chairwoman of the Legislative Finance Committee, said she has heard state administrators pitch the benefits of information technology projects before, only to see the projects fail and result in requests for more funding to fix the problems. We pump a lot of money into these things, Lundstrom said. Toal said the project is especially complex because it involves a variety of vendors working on separate parts, or modules, of the information system. The benefit, he said, is that if a problem pops up in one module, the rest of the system should work fine. It can also be brought online piece by piece rather than all at once. Brenda Fresquez, a program evaluator for the LFC, said the project will replace a 15-year-old information system used in the Medicaid program. The new system is based on requirements of the federal Centers on Medicare and Medicaid Services, and about 90% of the funding for the project comes from the federal government. The LFC report said that at least one vendor has struggled with repeated staff turnover and that the state has had trouble filling staff positions within the Human Services Department to help with the project. At one point late last year, the report said, the State Personnel Office approved a staffing plan but delayed authorization to post the jobs until February or later, months later than the department had hoped. The report is concerning, without doubt, said Sen. Carlos Cisneros, D-Questa. Medicaid is an incredibly important part of the health care system in New Mexico. About 40% of the population receives services through Medicaid, and the state led the nation in the percentage of babies born into Medicaid families, according to a 2017 survey by the Kaiser Family Foundation. BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. - Action News Now spoke with a mail carrier in the Camp Fire burn scar to understand some of the challenges these carriers are facing six months after the fire. Jason Leidholdt has been delivering mail to the people of Paradise for over 18 years. He said that everything is different now after the Camp Fire. "There are no landmarks anymore and the street signs are burned up," he said. Leidholdt said his first day back on the job was rough, because it is challenging to try to find certain streets and addresses. However, he said it's eventually something he has gotten used to. "Yeah it was difficult to see," he said. "Now that you do it on a daily basis you kind of become numb to it because its kind of normal now, which is kind of sad." All of the routes have changed and there are not many familiar faces, he said. Some of the customers that Leidholdt was delivering mail to had been living in Paradise for many years. The changes have also been challenging for neighbors in the areas of the burn scar. "Our carriers have always been really nice," said Joan Mcwilliams, a resident of Paradise. "If we have packages they'll bring them to the door. If I'm down front they'll chat with us. But now we have a different carrier and mail comes at different times of the day, so we're adjusting." Leidholdt said his mail truck used to be completely filled, but after the Camp Fire, he said he doesn't deliver to as many places as he used to. The change has been fairly drastic, with the number of houses on his route dropping from 800-900 to 100-150. Paradise Post Master Michael Johnson said the post office has dealt with many challenges since the fire. A lot of the challenge center around people who have been displaced from their homes as well as displaced mail carriers. Johnson said they lost almost half of their carriers after the Camp Fire. However, Leidholdt said he isn't going anywhere. "I'd like to stay here and just see the town grow and just help deliver mail to the people who want to build here again," he said. CHICO, Calif. -- Six months after the Camp Fire, we continue to see remarkable examples of generosity. Action News Now reporter Laura Eng has more on another act of kindness involving young Camp Fire survivors. "It's just so surreal, I think about being at the airport and thinking, yes, I'm going on a trip, I'm going away," said Jenny Hernandez, a student at Inspire School of Arts and Sciences. Jenny Hernandez says she's never traveled out of the country before. "I honestly wasn't sure how I was going to pay for all of it. Like my family, we've been struggling for a while," said Hernandez. She is a Camp Fire survivor and among several theatre students at Inspire School of Arts and Sciences chosen to perform abroad in a festival in Edinburgh, Scotland this summer. "This is the first time for Inspire to go to the Edinburgh Festival Fringe," said Erin Horst, a theatre teacher at the Inspire School. Theatre teacher Erin Horst said fundraising has been a challenge, especially since the Camp Fire affected a dozen of her students, but she didn't give up hope. "Our entire community has been impacted to some degree so I wanted to make sure we were going to go on this trip no matter what," said Horst. Thanks to a generous donation from CEO Bob Gogel of WorldStrides, Horst can fulfill her promise to her students. The festival will cover the rest of what is still owed, but the school will need to cover this down the line, Horst says. "We know that it is transformational for these young people and the fact that we can provide some financial support to help make this trip happen is just the right thing to do," said Gogel. Amy Lewis lost her Paradise home in the Camp Fire, but she said it's been special having her theater group behind her in these challenging times. "You know, we are Butte Strong we are Paradise Strong, there's just support coming from everywhere, but I don't know, it's just beautiful to see," said Lewis. The group still needs to raise a little more than $33,000 for the trip. If you would like to donate, you can do so here. The Inspire theatre group will leave for Scotland on July 27th. Chico is the fastest growing city in California Chico is now officially the state's fastest growing city, with much of that growth stemming from the Camp Fire. The California Department of Finance said Chico's population has grown by nearly 21% this year. The population is now over 112,000 people. November 2018 wildfires now most expensive in state's history New numbers came in Wednesday regarding the costs of 2018 California wildfires. The Camp Fire and November fires in Southern California are now the most expensive in state history. California Department of Fire Protection Board tours Camp Fire burn scar Members of the California Department of Fire Protection Board of Forestry toured the area burned by the Camp Fire for the first time. Officials discussed fire prevention and safety methods. Groundbreaking ceremony for the I-5 expansion project takes place Thursday The Redding to Anderson I-5 lane expansion groundbreaking ceremony is happening Thursday. Caltrans is adding one lane to both south and northbound I-5 between Highway 273 and I-5 to just south of Bonnyview Road. The project is expected to be completed in three years. 18-year-old behind bars for stealing backpacks Nathanial Russell spent the day behind bars in the Shasta County Jail for stealing backpacks. Law enforcement arrested the teen Wednesday at Anderson High School. He is now charged with grand theft and possession of the stolen property. Democrats vote to hold the attorney general in contempt of Congress Democrats in the House Judiciary Committee have voted to hold U.S. Attorney General William Barr in contempt of Congress. The resolution now goes to the full house for a vote. This is only the second time this action has ever been taken. Henkel launched Henkel X in India on May 3, 2019 by organizing its first Henkel X - Show & Tell event at Mumbai. Henkel X is an agile, hyper-connected and entrepreneurial platform for collaboration and innovation. The ambition of this platform is to unite and accelerate Henkels entrepreneurial transformation across the three pillars: Ecosystem, Experience and Experimentation. This is done through various initiatives such as Henkel X Show & Tell, Henkel X Mentorship Club, Henkel X Institute of Entrepreneurship, Henkel X AccelerateHER, among others. Henkel X - Show & Tell event provides an opportunity to start-ups to SHOWCASE their innovations and offerings and an industry thought leader is invited as the keynote speaker who TELLS and inspires the audience with his or her digital journey. The start-ups that participated in Show & Tell event in India were Ocean Insights, IndustryBuying.com and Chizel. The keynote address was delivered by Saurabh Jain, Vice President - Paytm, who heads Paytm Build for India. He shared insights on how quick addressal of issues helps solve problems and increases acceptance. He also spoke on Indias transformation from Technology importers to technology exporters. Speaking at the event, Shilip Kumar, President, Henkel India said, The world is evolving at a rapid speed. This has necessitated organizations to change and adapt quickly, in order to continue growing and staying relevant. Henkel X is an innovative, collaborative platform that will help us evolve and offer our customers a better experience. Henkel has organized seven Show & Tell events since the first one which was held in February 2018 at Dusseldorf. During this time, it has engaged over 20 start-ups, of which 18 worked with Henkel to develop proof of concepts and 6 entered long term work agreements. Henkel believes that more than just funding, start-ups need time, data, guidance and subject matter expertise. Today, businesses are evolving at a rapid pace, and this is made possible through technology. However, at the core of this transformation is a cultural transformation and the willingness to accept change. Henkel understands that collaboration is the fastest way to evolve. Setting the events context, Dr. Rahmyn Kress, Chief Digital Officer at Henkel said, Henkel is committed to drive a new, entrepreneurial digital culture so that we are able to respond to the accelerating technological changes. Technology is an enabler. Using technology, we intend to build market places. In order to shape the future of Henkel and stimulate the industry, we work with the new generation of entrepreneurs and our network of mentors and business partners; thereby, leveraging each others core skills, he added. Henkel X brings together on one platform start-ups and mentors comprising angel investors, leaders from Fortune 500 c-suite, entrepreneurs who have built successful businesses and academicians; thereby, creating an ecosystem of unprecedented value. Close on the heels of Mike Coopers appointment as Group CEO, Omnicom Media Group APAC and EMEA, Omnicom Media Group (OMG) has named Philippa Brown CEO of PHD Worldwide. Brown, who joins PHD from her role as CEO of Omnicom Media Group UK, succeeds Mike Cooper. Since joining Omnicom Media Group in 2007, Brown has led OMG UK through a period of consistent growth and expansion. Overseeing a team of 1,600 professionals serving more than 270 clients, she has been a key player in every OMG UK milestone over the past decade, including the UK launch of OMGs newest agency network Hearts & Science; PHDs emergence as one of the UKs most awarded and competitive agencies; and the expansion of OMD UK and Manning Gottlieb OMD, which in 2018 won the UKs largest media review. Philippa is a proven leader and a natural fit to lead PHD globally, said Omnicom Media Group CEO Daryl Simm. As CEO of OMG UK, she has worked closely with Mike Cooper in the original positioning of PHD as a global network, and has been heavily involved in PHDs international client successes. She has singular insight into PHDs culture, the expectations that clients have of the agency, and the ongoing transformation required for success. Prior to joining OMG, Brown spent 10 years at IPC Media, rising to board director. Her previous experience also includes stints at full service DMB&B and BBH. She is known across the industry for her skill in building enduring client relationships as well as her commitment to creating a learning culture that attracts and retains talent. Commenting on her new role, Philippa Brown said, Over the past decade, PHD has become one of the most respected agency networks in the industry. Its growth, thought leadership and award-winning work is a testament to Mike Coopers leadership, and the combined contributions of our many talented people all around the world. My job working with all the PHD offices and our clients is to now build on the great success that has already been achieved. Browns appointment is effective July 1. She will be based in London, reporting to Daryl Simm. Sanket Upadhyay, Managing Editor of India Ahead has put in his papers sources have confirmed to Adgully. Prior to joining India Ahead he was Deputy Executive Editor at CNN News18 which he quit last year in May. Sanket is a veteran journalist who began his career at Indo Asian News Service (IANS) in 2002. Since then in his journalism career spanning over 16 years, he has worked at reputed news media groups such as NDTV, Times NOW, India Today and Hindustan Times. In continuation with the popular Chak Chak Chabao campaign created during the last IPL in 2018; Tasty Treat, the munching brand by Future Consumer Ltd is back this season with a fresh new campaign. Celebrating every foodies love for munching, Tasty Treat releases, Taste Ka Attack campaign during the IPL playoffs. The campaign features Brand Ambassador Varun Dhawan rapping to the musical Chak Chak Chataak lyrics. Rapped to catchy lines like, Taste Ka Attack by apna famous Mumbai rapper Kaam Bhaari a.k.a Kunal Pandgale the campaign describes Tasty Treat as a one stop choice for all munching products. Food has a strong emotional connect and the campaign musically highlights how we are always attacked with tasty food that makes us want for more. Munching is an integral part of India's food culture and cuts across all age groups, geography and is omnipresent. The campaign takes you through a journey of the entire namkeen portfolio of Tasty Treat. Right from traditional namkeen range like Aloo Bhujia and Moong Dal to innovation in flavours like Peri Peri and Barbeque bhujia, Popcorn in cheese and caramel, Chips in sour cream & onion to cheese, the list never stops. Speaking about Taste Ka Attack campaign, Sadashiv Nayak, CEO - Food Business, Future Group says, India is a land of food where every meal, lunch box, home, street and restaurant is bursting with lip-smacking flavours that are waiting to be attacked. The campaign is a friendly attack to all the foodie in us who love to munch the all-time favourite namkeens, crunchy chips or popcorn while watching a match, movie or on the go. Sharing his views on the campaign Ramanuj Shastry, Founder & Director - Infectious says, Post the success of Chak Chak Chabao it was a challenge to do something as refreshing and entertaining for the brand. With Taste Ka Attack we believe we have taken the campaign to the next level. The campaign has a young tone and feel with the use of animation and of course adding to that is rap sensation KaamBhaari. As a brand we provide a basket of all-time favourite namkeens and at the same time innovate with taste for our new age consumers. We are happy to launch Taste Ka Attack during the IPL with much fanfare and the campaign is sure to keep you humming. Sadashiv Nayak added. Vivafit India has signed on Bollywood and television star Mandira Bedi as a brand ambassador. Vivafit is a Portuguese based global chain of boutique gyms for women only. They have been in India since 2010 through a Master Franchise. Mandira is a health and fitness icon and a role model for every woman. She is an ageless star, became a household name in the 1980s, when she starred in the hugely popular television series Shanti. Since then she has had a successful career as an actress and television host including for the IPL. She follows a strict fitness routine and maintains a healthy lifestyle herself, which helps her to stay younger and fitter. At the same time, Vivafit India is on a rapid expansion mode starting with a strong focus on North India and gradually extending the footprint nationally. The business has been given a boost with a significant investment by Ajay Jain, who invests in early to growth stage brands making a mark in consumer service sectors. There are currently three centres in Delhi NCR and a fourth one due to open early June 2019 in Gurgaon. Vivafit India plans to increase its footprint and aims to have 50 fitness centres in North India itself by the end of 2020. Manisha Ahlawat, CEO, Vivafit India, said, Mandira is a wife, mother, actor, model, TV presenter and entrepreneur. She has proven that women can stay healthy and fit while taking on multiple responsibilities and roles. She is the perfect fitness icon for women over 40 in India and abroad. We are delighted that Mandira is representing our brand Vivafit Women only Fitness Boutique chain. Ajay Jain, Entrepreneur and Investor, said, The wellness industry is a multibillion dollar industry in India, with fitness being a major chunk of the business. Fitness industry is poised for massive growth plus organization. Vivafit fills the current void of quality fitness services for women in India. By investing in Vivafit I am putting my money on the fitness revolution that will take Indian womens services market by a storm. Pedro Ruiz, Founder, Vivafit, said, Mandira is not just one more famous Bollywood celebrity, when it comes to fitness, she "walks the talk" she is Vivafit in India. We are working closely with our partners in India as we believe India could be the most important market for Vivafit in the world given the market potential here. Mandira Bedi, said, I firmly believe that out of 24 hours, we can easily take out 30 minutes for exercise. Exercise can empower women beyond weight loss and shape. I want to inspire women to take up fitness for a healthier and happier life. Vivafit is a women-only niche brand and their workouts are only 30 minutes, perfect for busy women! She says this too: "Experts say the anti-vaccine or vaccine choice groups, as they commonly refer to themselves,..." So what we identify as doesn't matter? Wow. She says this too: "Experts say the anti-vaccine or vaccine choice groups, as they commonly refer to themselves,..." So what we identify as doesn't matter? Wow. First off, why is she contacting me about CHD? Second, that exchange turned into the following in her article: "Not every group in the anti-vaccine movement says it is seeing growth. Ginger Taylor, director of the Maine Coalition for Vaccine Choice, said her organization was struggling for funding, especially when they were battling a $30 billion a year liability-free pharmaceutical sector. Meanwhile the Maine Coalition for Vaccine Choice had DOUBLED in size in 4 months. And note that she called me "vaccine choice" to my face and "anti-vaccine" in the article. Also note that she filed her story under the heading "Ruh Roh." First off, why is she contacting me about CHD? Second, that exchange turned into the following in her article: "Not every group in the anti-vaccine movement says it is seeing growth. Ginger Taylor, director of the Maine Coalition for Vaccine Choice, said her organization was struggling for funding, especially when they were battling a $30 billion a year liability-free pharmaceutical sector. Meanwhile the Maine Coalition for Vaccine Choice had DOUBLED in size in 4 months. And note that she called me "vaccine choice" to my face and "anti-vaccine" in the article. Also note that she filed her story under the heading "Ruh Roh." Jackie, when you start taking vaccine injury seriously, I will start taking you and your outlet seriously. Not interested in an interview. Jackie, when you start taking vaccine injury seriously, I will start taking you and your outlet seriously. Not interested in an interview. I should have been more clear - I was looking at 990s and noticed an uptick/ Childrens Health Defense has been raising more money as well, which usually indicates interest in a cause. I should have been more clear - I was looking at 990s and noticed an uptick/ Childrens Health Defense has been raising more money as well, which usually indicates interest in a cause. You're joking, right? Broke families of vaccine injured children up against a $30B a year liability-free pharmaceutical sector? What funding? You're joking, right? Broke families of vaccine injured children up against a $30B a year liability-free pharmaceutical sector? What funding? Thank you so much for any thoughts you have on this topic. Thank you so much for any thoughts you have on this topic. Given the recent demonstrations in Maine regarding attempts to repeal non-medical exemptions, it certainly seems like there is momentum. Given the recent demonstrations in Maine regarding attempts to repeal non-medical exemptions, it certainly seems like there is momentum. Im putting together a story about the vaccine choice movement specifically how it seems to be more organized and well-funded than ever. Is this your experience? Im putting together a story about the vaccine choice movement specifically how it seems to be more organized and well-funded than ever. Is this your experience? This was my turn down to the Daily Beast and what they did with it: By Ginger Taylor So I have had a LOT of huge media inquires lately from such notables as Daily Beast, Time, Reuters, blah blah blah who don't know I am not the head of MCVC anymore. I turn them down because 1. I am not the head of MCVC any more and 2. They lie so reflexively, that even when I turn them down they turn it into a lie and put it in their story. NOTE: Thanks to Ginger Taylor for the post from here blog Adventures in Autism. At least she quoted, a $30 billion a year liability-free pharmaceutical sector. Noted fake news person Jeffrey Kluger Editor at Large of Time, has contacted me twice this week. Here are samples of his work: How to Change an Anti-Vaxxer's Mind, Aug 3, 2015 Meet the Heroes and the Villains of Vaccine Injury, July 29, 2015 Jim Carrey, Please Shut Up About Vaccines, Jul 1, 2015 Meet the Latest Driver of the Anti-Vaccine Clown Car, Jan 30, 2015 RFK Jr. Joins the Anti-Vaccine Fringe, July 21, 2014 That Moment When You Must Have a Word With Jenny McCarthy, Apr 12, 2014 Heres How the Anti-Vaxxers Strongest Argument Falls Apart Aug 19, 2015 Kluger: "I am Editor at Large for Time magazine, and Im working with two colleagues on a piece about groups like Maine for Vaccine Choice and their political and legislative efforts in the various states. Im very much hoping to come to Maine, visit with your group, and learn about the work youre doing. Id be very interested in meeting and talking with some activist parents as well. As Time is hoping to close this story by May 15, I would very much like to schedule any visit for as soon as possible. If you have followed Times vaccine coverage, its no secret that I am very supportive of childhood vaccinations and have written quite a bit about their safety and efficacy. Often my coverage has been sharp in tone. I stand by my belief in the science, but what I hope to report here is the politicsthe increasing influence groups like yours have and how youve succeeded in building a nationwide network. Its a phenomenon that hasnt gotten a lot of attention and I think it would interest readers. Please let me know if my visiting soon is a possibility and thanks in advance for your time and attention." Me: "I am not longer the Director of the Maine Coalition for Vaccine Choice thus I do not speak for them. I forwarded your phone message to them... If you want a quote from me for your story: "In 1986, Congress passed the 1986 National Childhood Vaccine Injury Act, giving liability protection to vaccine makers for injury and death from their products, and planting the seeds of the vaccine injury epidemic. In the 1990s, as the vaccine injury epidemic began to bloom, parents asked Public Health for treatment for their injured children, but they refused to provide it. In the 2000s, as the vaccine injury epidemic came into full swing, parents asked Public Health for vaccine safety reform, but instead they made the vaccine program more aggressive. In the 2010s, as the vaccine injury epidemic began to decimate child health and public systems, parents gave up on previous requests, instead demanding vaccine choice in order to get away from the abusive vaccine program, and now public health is telling them they cannot leave their abuser. I believe that in the coming decade, because the Public Health will not admit to its failure that is crippling the country, the vaccine program will collapse under the weight of its own corruption. And it will be the vaccine program's own fault, because it simply will not admit to being exactly what the 1986 Act called it when the law was passed 33 ago. "Unavoidably Unsafe." Thank you for your time, Ginger Taylor. Jeffrey Kluger: "Thank you for getting back to me. I'm familiar with the history and the arguments. No need for follow-up." The mainstream media is a disaster. Todays spotlight of remarkable motion art is a world tour. We start in New York City, with time-lapse video from photographer Michael Shainblum. The video was inspired by Shainblums first visit to New York as a kid, when he encountered the sheer sense of scale of the city not just its skyscrapers, but the pace of life there. Ever since then, it has been my dream to recreate that feeling into a short time-lapse film, he writes. From the sensory overload of standing on a busy New York street corner. To the tranquility of standing on a skyscraper, like being on top of the world. This is a dedication to my favorite city in the world. From New York we go to Europe for a pre-dawn drone ride through the snow-covered Alps, courtesy of the aerial cinematography specialists at the Austria-based 5kdigitalfilm production company. And we end with photographer Martin Hecks glimpse of two heavenly sights the Milky Way and Aurora Australis, as captured over the South Pole by German filmmaker and photographer Martin Heck. _________________________________ 1. Michael Shainblum: Liberty - New York City Timelapse 4K Anyone who has ever been to New York City remembers their first impression, amazement, and awe. Photographer Michael Shainblum credits this feeling as one of the main reasons he got into photography in the first place. So noted Fstoppers, which recently spotlighted Shainblums video Liberty - New York City Timelapse 4K, which captures the scale, the lights, and the dynamism of the city. The time-lapse and hyperlapse tour of NYC is made up of some 15,000 still images captured from 2015 to 2018. Shainblum has also created a behind-the-scenes video showing how he made the NYC time lapse. As Shainblum notes, it was his early experience in colorful New York that inspired him to become a photographer and filmmaker. 2. 5kdigitalfilm: Before Sunrise - Winter in the Alps Based in Austria and the U.K., the 5kdigitalflm production company features the work of British cameraman Chris Boyes and drone pilot Peter Roesner. Boyes worked on the BBC's Wildlife on One series before going on the work on a variety documentaries, commercials and short films. Rosener, who has flown RC planes since his was a boy, has worked on numerous documentaries and feature films. Their latest effort, Before Sunrise - Winter in the Alps, was shot on location in Tirol, Austria, in the golden alpine hours. The Alps, meters of snow and the early morning light..Thank you to Pete my pilot for waiting hours with me on cold mountainsides and for flying the drone in some of the most unbelievably hostile conditions, writes Boyes at Vimeo, which featured the film as a Staff Pick. 3. Martin Heck: South PoleNight In Antarctica The South Pole is one of the coldest, driest and harshest places on earth, writes Martin Heck, a time-lapse specialists and cinematographer based in Germany. Those conditions may not make for comfortable travel, but they are ideal for capturing two heavenly sights: the Milky Way and the Aurora Australis. The temperatures can go all the way below -70C/-95F during the polar nights, so you can imagine how challenging it is to shoot a time lapse there, notes DIY Photography. In addition to the extreme cold, strong winds and high aridity made it even harder to shoot. The images were shot by Robert Schwarz, a technician at the AmundsenScott South Pole Station, using Canon 6D and 5DIII cameras. (As Heck notes at Vimeo, specially built and modified gear was also needed to work in the cold conditions.) Martin curated the images, then pulled them together in post-production using Adobe Lightroom, AE, DaVinci Resolve and LRTimelapse programs. Photographer, Agnieszka Sosnowska, who was born in Poland, raised in Boston and is currently living on a farm outside of Egilsstair, Iceland, is having her first major solo exhibition, Myth of A Woman, at the National Museum of Iceland. At LOeil de la Photographie, Sosnowska talks with Elizabeth Avedon, who curated the exhibition. Sosnowskas self-portraits are her attempts at forging an understanding with the rugged environment in which she lives. I cant imagine living anywhere else. I have become self reliant and independent, she says. 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. House Democrats are trying to use the power of the purse to block the transfer of US nuclear technology to Saudi Arabia amid concerns that the Donald Trump administration is too keen to strike a deal with the kingdom. The House foreign aid panels spending bill for fiscal year 2020, released today, would bar the use of federal funds to support the sale of nuclear technology to Saudi Arabia. The provision comes as Democrats accuse the Trump administration of using a legal loophole to provide undisclosed nuclear technology and assistance to Riyadh. Given the administrations failure to share important information about these activities with Congress, we included this provision, which prevents the administration from allowing the sale of nuclear technology to Saudi Arabia, a House Democratic aide who did not want to be identified told Al-Monitor. We hope this will force much-needed transparency on this issue. Lawmakers are concerned that Riyadh has not agreed to terms that would preclude it from enriching uranium or reprocessing plutonium on its territory, precursors to a nuclear weapons program. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman notably raised eyebrows last year by vowing that Saudi Arabia would pursue a nuclear weapon if Iran obtained one. But some nonproliferation experts are skeptical that the legislation unveiled today would effectively deter the administration, which is determined to strike a civil nuclear deal with Riyadh, from continuing nuclear transfers. Whether it actually achieves that is not clear because it says the sale of, and at this stage in the process, nobody in the government is supporting a specific sale, said Daryl Kimball, the executive director of the Arms Control Association. They are engaged in negotiations on the terms of economic transactions, so I think theres probably a clever lawyer at the State Department who can probably wiggle out of this. The Atomic Energy Act requires a so-called 123 agreement with a foreign country in order for US companies to transfer nuclear technology for civilian use. Congress has the power to veto any such agreement. Democrats on the House Oversight Committee released a report earlier this year detailing whistleblower accounts of the White Houses efforts to transfer nuclear technology to Riyadh without a 123 agreement. But under Section 810 of the law, the Energy Department can also authorize US companies to transfer limited nuclear technology and assistance without any agreement. The Trump administration says it has issued seven Section 810 authorizations for Saudi Arabia but has not publicly disclosed what organization or organizations they were awarded to, or for what purposes. The Barack Obama administration also issued 810 authorizations for sales to the kingdom but was more transparent with Congress. While Democratic appropriators maintain that the legislation would bar the Trump administration from issuing future 810 authorizations, Kimball voiced skepticism that the provision would affect the Energy Department as the spending bill only appropriates funds for the State Department. My common reading of this bill is that it would not restrict Energy Department activities in any way, Kimball said. Still, with Riyadhs reputation on Capitol Hill taking a hit from the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi and the humanitarian crisis in Yemen, members of both parties are taking a hard line on Saudi civil nuclear cooperation. Reps. Brad Sherman, D-Calif., and Ted Yoho, R-Fla., have introduced legislation that would require Congress to affirmatively sign off on any nuclear agreement the Trump administration reaches with Riyadh. Sens. Ed Markey, D-Mass., and Marco Rubio, R-Fla., have introduced companion legislation in the Senate. Mark Dubowitz, the executive director of the hawkish Foundation for Defense of Democracies, also argued against transferring nuclear technology to Riyadh in a Washington Examiner op-ed today. Wednesdays decision by the Islamic Republic of Iran to break the restrictions of the Iran nuclear deal, he wrote, is a further reminder that neither Iran, nor for that matter Saudi Arabia, needs nuclear power. Correction: May 13, 2019. The US Energy Department has acknowledged granting seven waivers for nuclear transfers to Saudi Arabia, not six, Egypt's Ministry of Agriculture and Land Reclamation has recently announced its ambitious plan to plant 100 million olive trees by 2022 by offering many land plots to investors. Though Egypt is the world's second-largest exporter of table olives, the government is now fighting tooth and nail to boost the olive oil production, considering that Egypt is a major importer of olive oil. On April 23, Agriculture Minister Ezz El Din Abu Steit announced Egypt's strategy to increase its productivity of oil varieties in the coming years with the key aim of extracting olive oil. Abu Steit, who is also the president of the International Olive Council (IOC), said the country will allocate more plots for the cultivation of varieties of olives. These plots include 10,000 acres in Upper Egypt's West Minya and 25,000 acres in Matrouh and oases in the Western Desert. Both Egyptian and foreign investors can invest in these lands. Meanwhile, the government will offer 10,000 acres in El Tur area in the southern Sinai Peninsula for Egyptian investors only, according to the minister. No distribution of lands has been made so far. Abu Steits announcement came during the international symposium hosted by Egypt in coordination with the IOC, on investment opportunities in the olive sector. The symposium has raised many questions about olive cultivation in Egypt, besides the remarkable discrepancy between Egypt's importation of 98% of its olive oil needs, while most of its olive production is only used in pickling (table olives). Egyptians tend to favor pickles in general; thus table olives are very important in Egypt and the local production covers the domestic demand. But for olive oil, production is not enough to cover local demand, which is why Egypt seeks to enhance olive oil production to cover local demand and export it. During his speech, Abu Steit pointed out that the area planted with olives in Egypt increased from 5,000 acres at the end of the 1970s, to more than 100,000 acres at the end of the 1990s. In 2000, it reached approximately 108,000 acres, and has now jumped to more than 240,000 acres. He also elucidated that Egypt's production of table olives reached about 450,000 tons in 2018, while its exports reached about 100,000 tons. Meanwhile, Egypt's olive oil production has been only estimated at 20 million tons. Head of the Egyptian Farmers Syndicate Hussein Abu Saddam told Al-Monitor that the government's plan to reach 100 million olive trees means that there will be an olive tree for every citizen. "This step is inevitable. We import 98% of olive oil demands, though the olive tree is the most suitable tree to be cultivated in the country since it can be planted in different types of soil and does not consume large quantities of water," Abu Saddam argued. Meanwhile, Abu Saddam noted that cooperating with investors is a must to revive olive oil production. We need well-equipped factories to extract and produce olive oil. These factories should be established near the plots planted with olives. So it is very important to breathe new life into agricultural investment, he said. Regarding the challenges facing farmers, Abu Saddam explained that besides the expansion of the cultivation of olive trees, the government must develop a plan to combat the diseases affecting olive trees, especially black mold that interferes with the trees' productivity. "In general the olive harvest season starts in mid-September and lasts until mid-November and the olive cultivation exists in the governorates of New Valley, Bahreha, Sinai, Fayoum, Assiut, Ismailia and Giza. Cultivation of large close areas facilitates the use of automated harvest systems, a matter that will reduce harvest cost and ensure higher profits," he added. According to the IOC, Egypt is the world's second producer of table olives after Spain. Egypt produced 450,000 tons of table olives in the 2018/19 crop year, while Spain produced 613,000 tons. Abu Steit said that President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi issued Decree No. 560 of 2017 on the approval of Egypt joining the International Agreement on Olive Oil and Table Olives, which was adopted in Geneva. The agreement aims to enhance technical cooperation in the olive oil sector besides carrying out activities to develop this sector. "Opening doors for Egyptian and foreign investors to invest in olive cultivations is definitely a step forward. It comes within the framework of Egypt's strategy for sustainable development 2030, which aims at achieving a comprehensive agricultural renaissance based on innovation, intensifying knowledge and encouraging investments," Gamal Gad, professor of agricultural economics at Cairo University's Faculty of Agriculture, told Al-Monitor. The 100 million olive trees is a national project and will help offer many job opportunities besides injecting hard currency into the state coffers, he said. GAZA CITY, Gaza Strip During his April 22 visit to the headquarters of the Felesteen newspaper in Gaza City, Osama Kahil, the head of the Palestinian Contractors Union in the Gaza Strip, said the union is organizing a conference and exhibition in Gaza City involving 400 Arab investors and contractors in order to open up new investment channels for Gazan contractors. The Israeli siege, which has been ongoing since 2007, has caused the Gaza construction sector $60 million in losses and driven 50 companies out of the market. Kahil told Al-Monitor, The exhibition seeks to promote the Gaza construction sector by sharing with the Arab investors and contractors what the construction companies have experienced. He added, The goal is to have these investors finance economic and development projects in Gaza, particularly since USAID, whose operational projects are estimated at around $215 million a year, ceased activities in the Palestinian territories. Kahil also said the exhibition seeks to convince Arab investors and businessmen to have Gaza construction companies operate in Arab countries such as Jordan, Egypt, Algeria, Sudan and Oman. He said, We prepared a list of 250 Arab contractors and businessmen to be invited to the conference. They are mainly from Jordan, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Lebanon, Sudan, Algeria, Oman and Qatar; 150 contractors from the West Bank will be also invited. The exhibition will be held under the umbrella of the Palestinian Authority (PA), from which we seek approval for the exhibition to be held in September. In parallel, a union delegation met with the head of Hamas' politburo, Ismail Haniyeh, in Gaza City on April 20, where problems and challenges the contractors have been facing in the Gaza Strip were discussed. Kahil told Al-Monitor that Haniyeh welcomed the idea of holding an exhibition. Through such an exhibition, the union seeks to have Arab businessmen and investors start development and operational projects in the Gaza Strip, such as water and sewer projects and road and residential cities' construction, and to have some Gaza construction companies work in Arab countries. Awni al-Basha, assistant undersecretary of the Ministry of Finance in the Hamas-run Gaza Strip, said April 22 that his ministry signed an agreement with the union in Gaza that could allow financially ailing contractors to pay income taxes with pending tax refunds. Gazan contractors have demanded that the Finance Ministry in Ramallah pay them 200 million shekels ($56 million) in PA tax refunds. This money is due to 120 companies, Alaa Aaraj, the former head of the Palestinian Contractors Union in the Gaza Strip, said in December. The Gaza contactors had paid the Ministry of Finance in Ramallah a value added tax of 16% on purchases for projects they implemented in the past 12 years (2007-2018) and are demanding that the ministry pay them investment incentive refunds which they say reached a total of $56 million in 2019 considering that Article 22 of Law No. 6 of 1995 stipulates that such projects are to be exempt from taxes and customs tariffs. Osama Nofal, director general of the Planning and Policy Department at the Gaza Ministry of National Economy, told Al-Monitor that the ministry is well aware that a settlement to end the crisis the contractors have been suffering from is required. He said, Based on that, the ministry supports the union in claiming the tax refund. They should not be a victim of the political differences that PA sanctions on the Gaza Strip have caused. Maher Tabbaa, the director of public relations and media at the Gaza Chamber of Commerce and Industry, told Al-Monitor, Opening up investment channels to Arab countries, as is the case in Algeria, could help pave the way for the union to open up investment opportunities in other countries, such as the Arab Gulf, Lebanon and Sudan. Yet this would require a detailed economic feasibility before implementing the plan. Fahed Yassin, a contractor, told Al-Monitor, The construction sector in the Gaza Strip can no longer withstand the status quo. My company has ceased activities and has not been granted any contracts in the past three years, which led me to lay off all employees and sell its assets, as the losses went beyond $100,000 throughout said period of time. He also said, We are looking forward to opening up new investment channels in Arab countries in order to compensate for the losses we have incurred. The construction sector is a primary engine of economic growth in the Palestinian territories, especially in the Gaza Strip, and contributed 6.5% of GDP (around $889 million) in the territories in 2017. While there were 350 companies registered with the Palestinian Contractors Union in the Gaza Strip in 2007, the number dropped to 150 by May 2018 due to the lack of projects. Prior to the siege, this sector employed 23% of the labor force in the Gaza Strip. This figure, however, declined to 9%, Aaraj said in May 2018. The construction sector has been going through ups and downs. Construction activities began declining in 2007 with the Israeli siege, a subsequent 300% rise in raw material prices, including steel, and a lack of lending from banks. In 2010, the situation was gradually ameliorated with the reconstruction of Gaza and the entry of cement, steel and aluminum into the Gaza Strip following the 2008-2009 Israeli war. Yet the situation regressed again given the restrictions that accompanied the reconstruction process by 2014, including donor countries' delay in meeting their pledge to reconstruct Gaza and the requirement that the reconstruction be part of the Gaza Reconstruction Mechanism, which restricts the entry of building materials. Samir Abu-Maddalah, a professor of economics at Al-Azhar University in Gaza, told Al-Monitor, There are laws and conditions regulating the transfer of investments among countries. Thus, the union needs to consider the investment laws in counties where it seeks to work, and to check whether or not its companies are able to compete with local companies." Khalil Rizk, president of the Federation of Palestinian Chambers of Commerce and Industry, told Al-Monitor, The unions success with the conference banks on the involvement of the PA, which would give it a legitimate character and would reassure foreign investors that their money will be in safe hands. We perceive that encouraging Arab investors to invest in the Gaza Strip will be more beneficial to the economy than having Palestinian companies operate abroad, he added. The political differences between the Gaza Strip and the West Bank could be obstacles to the exhibition. The contractors' demands involving the tax refunds, which the Finance Ministry in Ramallah refuses to pay, would be a barrier to the implementation of its outcomes as well, as these companies perceive that this rejection is a part of the policy to stifle Gaza, which has caused dozens of them to go bankrupt. Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif's long-planned visit to Moscow today quickly turned into a grievance-sharing session with his counterpart Sergey Lavrov about the Donald Trump administration. Coming just as Iran announced it was rolling back some of its nuclear commitments under the 2015 nuclear deal and as the United States unveiled new sanctions on Iran's metallurgical sector, the future of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) dominated the agenda. Lavrov called the situation unacceptable and triggered by the irresponsible behavior of the United States, while stressing that Moscow appreciated the Iranian commitment to stay in the deal regardless of the announced caveats. Beside the JCPOA, the two top diplomats covered a broad range of other bilateral interactions, from Syria to Central Asia. Why it matters: Russia doesnt always see eye to eye with Iran in Syria. But the bottom-line necessity to have a stable relationship in their broader common neighborhood has brought the two countries closer together, especially in the face of mounting economic, political and military pressures from the United States. A day before Zarifs visit, the Russian Foreign Ministry in a special memo described Iran as a long-time predictable partner of Moscow in the Middle East region. Engaging with Iran is a key condition for providing Russian national security, reinforcing stability in the Caucasus, the Central Asia and the Middle East, the note reads. Iran is a key player in the region. Dialogue and cooperation [contribute to] stability and security, including in countering international terrorism, which was clearly manifested in [the joint] fight with terrorists in Syria. A friend in need? The tone of the messages Moscow has been conveying to Tehran is meant to be an antithesis to what Iran usually hears. While the United States and its regional allies label Iran as a principal destabilizing force, Russia argues the country is key to regional security. While Washington lobbies for Tehrans isolation, Moscow seeks avenues for engagement. Moreover, by focusing exclusively on cooperation on counterterrorism and exaggerating progress on bilateral trade, Russia seeks to reinforce Iran's feelings of bitter disappointment with the Europeans, the would-be saviors of the nuclear deal. While Iranian trust in Russia isn't very high, Moscow remains more reliable than any other player Tehran has been dealing with. Whats next: Sharing grievances, however, may prove easier than standing up to the United States as each party protects its own interest. Russia, as Lavrov indicated, is ready to partner with Iran to try to convince the Europeans to stick to the nuclear deal and support their proposed INSTEX financial mechanism for Iranian oil exports. Yet while both countries signal that they are in the same boat when it comes to illegal US sanctions, neither harbor any illusions that they are left to deal with them on their own. Know more: Read Maxim Suchkov's analysis of how Russia and Turkey are also growing closer at US expense. - Max Suchkov Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has declared that Iran would consider asking Afghan refugees to leave the country if the United States continues to apply economic pressure in the aftermath of President Donald Trumps withdrawal from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) and promises to increase economic sanctions on the country. Subsequent statements by Iranian officials hinted that the Afghans would likely then look toward Europe for refuge. In an interview on Iranian state television, Araghchi said, For the last 40 years, we have accepted immigrants from Afghanistan. [Immigrants] have also come from other countries, such as Iraq and Azerbaijan, and whenever our neighbors faced problems, Iran accepted its brothers and sisters. Araghchi added, Right now, more than 3 million Afghan citizens live in Iran, and according to some estimates they are holding more than 2 million jobs, and 3 or 4 billion euros leave our country, with those who make a living in Iran sending their money to their families in Afghanistan. Also according to Araghchi, there are more than 400,000 Afghans attending public schools in Iran, each costing the state 600 euros a year, and more than 23,000 college students, each costing 15,000 euros annually. Araghchi said, When American sanctions have an impact, and Irans financial resources are limited, and Irans oil exports become zero which will not happen we are forced to implement special policies for the economy, and its possible we will reach a point where we cannot continue paying these costs, and in that case, its possible that we will ask our Afghan brothers and sisters to leave Iran. Araghchi floating the idea of expelling refugees does not appear to have been spontaneous. He approached the interview well prepared with numbers and statistics, which suggests he anticipated publicly discussing the issue, perhaps with the expectation of the conversation reaching the ears of European officials. The large number of refugees who have fled to Europe over the past few years, although far less than what Iran has absorbed, sparked a crisis on the continent. The prospect of millions of Afghan refugees also setting their sights on Europe's shores would almost assuredly get the Europeans attention. Iranian officials appear to have decided to remind the Europeans of the sacrifices it has made that ultimately benefited them, suggesting that some reciprosity surrounding the nuclear deal might be in order. In this vein, Heshmatollah Falahatpisheh, head of the parliament's National Security and Foreign Policy Commission tweeted, 3,000 young Iranians [security personnel] have been martyred to thwart the [westward] trafficking of 60% of Afghanistan's drugs [production] and 1 million migrants a year. Europe's free-riding must come to an end. President Hassan Rouhani issued a similar warning in a letter to the other parties of the JCPOA about the necessity of keeping the nuclear deal alive and the cost Iran has incurred in fighting terrorism, drug smuggling and absorbing refugees. Were not asking you to take action for the interest of Iran, Rouhani wrote, but for the interest and future and your own country, you have a responsibility to act. Rouhani also asserted that Irans acceptance of refugees had prevented a wave of them from entering Europe. He called Iran the biggest fort in the fight against drugs and claimed that Iran has lost thousands of soldiers fighting drug smuggling on the border and through confiscation has prevented drugs from reaching Europe. Conservatives criticized Araghchi's remarks as essentially suggesting that Afghan refugees could be asked to self-deport and asserted that such an idea demonstrates not only the failure of the JCPOA, Rouhanis key foreign policy accomplishment, but also the administrations inability to govern the country. SULAIMANIYAH, Iraq In addition to discussing bilateral relations and an energy deal on his visit to Iraq April 28-29, Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu addressed the issue of Turkmen participation in the government. Cavusoglu spoke of the importance of gaining Turkmen representation in both the still-forming Cabinet of the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) in Erbil and the Cabinet-influx of the central Iraqi government in Baghdad. "Our Turkmen brothers and sisters, the second-largest ethnic group of the KRG and third of Iraq, should be duly represented both in Iraq and the KRG, Cavusoglu tweeted April 29 after meeting with members of the Iraqi Turkmen Front (ITF) political movement in Erbil. He also held separate talks with KRG Prime Minister Nechirvan Barzani, Deputy Prime Minister Qubad Talabani and Masrour Barzani, head of the Kurdistan Region Security Council and prime minister-designate. Aiden Maruf, an ITF member of the Kurdish regional parliament who participated in the Cavusoglu meeting, told Al-Monitor, "Cavusoglus visit was mainly aimed at boosting political, diplomatic and trade ties between Ankara and Erbil, as well as Ankara and Baghdad." Turkey's relationship with the KRG soured after the failed Kurdistan referendum for independence in late 2017. But considering the tumultuous state of regional relations and the importance of Kurdistan, Turkey is working to normalize relations. Turkey sees the Turkmen community in Kirkuk and the Kurdistan Region as an important focus of its relations with Iraq, Maruf said, adding that Turkey wants Turkmens to be represented in the political process and to shoulder official posts in both Erbil and Baghdad, asserting that is their natural right. In February, Kurdistan lawmakers elected Turkmen Muna Qahwachi as the second deputy speaker of their parliament. But Maruf pointed out that Turkmens previously asked for an adviser for Turkmen affairs in the Kurdistan presidency, and the post of second deputy of the KRG prime minister. These demands haven't been met. KRG spokesman Safeen Dizayee told Al-Monitor that those demands should be addressed to the new KRG leadership, and that he believes all minorities should have roles. Turkey is now turning to its neighbor Iraq for help after the US administration announced it was ending sanctions waivers that allowed some countries, including Turkey, to temporarily continue buying oil from Iran. The oil-rich, multiethnic and disputed city of Kirkuk is the perfect place for Ankara to turn. After the September vote for Kurdish independence from Baghdad passed overwhelmingly and was squelched immediately central government forces took control of Kirkuk province largely unchallenged. Ali Mahdi, an ITF member of Kirkuk's provincial council, told Al-Monitor that Turkey supports making Kirkuk an independent region associated with neither Baghdad nor Erbil. We have a single solution for Kirkuk that we put forward 15 years ago: Our solution is to make Kirkuk an independent region, where all components share power equally," said Mahdi. Massoud Abdul Khaliq, an independent Kurdish writer and political analyst, spoke with Al-Monitor about a new border crossing Ankara and Baghdad have been discussing that would serve as an alternative to Kurdistan's Ibrahim Khalil crossing. Ibrahim Khalil currently is the only official crossing between Iraq and Turkey and its customs duties go to the KRG. Opening a new trade crossing southeast of the current one would allow Turkey to bypass Kurdistan and deal directly with Baghdad. Turkey eventually wants Kirkuk not to be part of Kurdistan, and tries to use Kirkuk as a pressure card with Iraq to gain economic benefits from oil and gas, Abdul Khaliq said. Ankara also tries to use Kirkuk as a bargaining chip to counter the PKK [Kurdistan Workers Party] presence in Qandil. In 2014, the KRG signed a 50-year deal under which Ankara allows the KRG to export oil through Turkey to outside buyers. Now the KRGs obligation under the contract is the main hindrance keeping the Kurds from submitting oil revenues to Baghdad. According to Iraq's 2019 budget, the KRG should provide 250,000 barrels of oil per day to the Iraqi State Organization for Marketing of Oil, and submit the revenues to the federal government. Baghdad considers KRG exports through Turkey to be "smuggled oil." As the KRG is not submitting its oil to Baghdad as required by law, Iraqi Prime Minister Adel Abdul Mahdi is under heavy pressure from loyalists to former Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi to stop paying full salaries to KRG employees. Thus, any future oil agreement between Baghdad and Erbil will have to take into consideration the deal in place with Turkey. The Turkish foreign minister discussed potential joint operations among Turkey, the KRG and Iraq against the outlawed PKK, whose fighters are based in the Qandil Mountains, stretching from the Iraqi Kurdistan Region across the border with Iran. By putting political, economic and military pressure on both Erbil and Baghdad, Turkey hopes to compensate for the losses it is experiencing because of the US sanctions against Iran. Ankara also wants to enhance its position in the region by supporting the Turkmens' efforts to secure greater roles in sovereign posts. As they do every year, on the eve of their countrys 71st Independence Day, Israeli children attending public religious schools (not independent ultra-Orthodox ones) learned about the Declaration of the Establishment of the State of Israel (popularly known as the Declaration of Independence). The foreword to a handbook for junior high school students in religious schools used to teach the subject reads, The Declaration of Independence is the founding document of the State of Israel. It also determines that the State of Israel is based on the principles of democracy and equal rights for all its citizens principles and core values without which an enlightened society cannot exist. It is worth noting that a leftist education minister such as the late Yossi Sarid or Yuli Tamir did not write this text. It was adapted from remarks by Limor Livnat of the Likud Party who served as education minister from 2001 to 2006. What appeared obvious at the time is highly unlikely to have been approved by Israels previous Knesset, nor would it get through even an initial reading in Israels newly elected Knesset. The radical right-wing United Right party expected to be tasked with control of the Ministry of Education in Israels next government represents those who believe in Jewish supremacy (see, for example, the teachings of rabbis at the military preparatory academy Bnei David in the West Bank settlement of Eli) and educate a generation of nationalist religious zealots. One of the United Rights leaders, Knesset member Bezalel Smotrich, advocates for the separation in hospitals of Jewish and Arab women who give birth. What will a civics teacher answer a student who asks how the values of justice promised in the Declaration of Independence to all citizens irrespective of religion, race and sex square with a law stipulating the right to exercise national self-determination in the State of Israel is unique to the Jewish people? What will the teacher tell a student who asks how the promise of equality and the call to Israels Arabs to fulfill their role in state-building based on full and equal citizenship go hand-in-hand with a law stipulating the State views the development of Jewish settlement as a national value and will act to encourage and promote its establishment and consolidation? These questions relate, of course, to the Nationality Law, anchoring the Jewish nature of the State of Israel, adopted in 2018 by the previous Knesset and received by the incoming Knesset as a fait accompli. The alienation of Israels 21% Arab minority that is inherent in the legislation gives off a stench of nationalism, if not outright racism, and contradicts the spirit of the Declaration of Independence. The clause on self-determination, while hurtful to the feelings of Israels non-Jewish citizens and undermining their affinity for the state, does not have practical meaning. On the other hand, the clause stipulating that the state will only develop Jewish settlement constitutes a direct blow to the property rights of millions of Palestinians and undermines their affinity for the land of their forefathers. The previous Knesset translated this clause into action when it legislated the so-called Regularization Law, which retroactively legalized all buildings erected in West Bank settlements in contravention of the law. A report issued April 1 by Yesh Din, an Israeli human rights organization, foresees that 99% of the illegally built Israeli outposts will be legalized shortly and will be considered by the government as official, state-sanctioned settlements. That will apply to some 70 outposts in addition to 30 others already legalized and some 7,000 buildings put up without permits in settlements and outposts. This creeping annexation is based on eight laws out of dozens of proposed bills awaiting the incoming Knesset designed to impose Israeli law on occupied territory. These moves contradict not only international law and resolutions adopted by the United Nations the institution that paved the way for the establishment of the state they also make a mockery of Israels founding legal document. The Declaration of Independence grants the natural right of the Jewish people to be masters of their own fate, like all other nations, in their own sovereign state. No enlightened state in the world is sovereign without recognized borders. What people believe it is their natural right to expropriate the lands and demolish the homes of another people living outside their sovereign state (the West Bank)? The Declaration of Independence extols the visionary of the modern-day Jewish state, Theodor Herzl, who declared the right of the Jewish people to national revival in their land. Herzl also envisioned that clerics would seek to control institutions of the Jewish state. In his road map The Jewish State, Herzl wrote, We shall therefore prevent any theocratic tendencies from coming to the fore on the part of our priesthood. We shall keep our priests within the confines of their temples in the same way as we shall keep our professional army within the confines of their barracks. Army and priesthood shall receive honors as high as their valuable functions deserve. But they must not interfere in the administration of the state which confers distinction on them, else they will conjure up difficulties without and within. Israels next government will depend more than ever on ultra-Orthodox clerics, among them eight members of Yahadut HaTorah and eight of the Shas Party, as well as an identical number of national religious lawmakers who will all serve in the newly sworn-in 21st Knesset. As Shuki Friedman, director of the Center for Religion, Nation and State at the Israel Democracy Institute notes, religion dictates all facets of life in Israel of 2019. It controls how we shall be schooled and how we will marry; whether we will have public transportation on the Sabbath (usually not) and how we will spend our day of rest; what level of Kosher certification we consume; and will we be stuck in endless traffic because road and rail works cannot be carried out on the Sabbath, only during the work week. For the ultra-Orthodox parties, Jewish law is above state law. They are against the drafting of young ultra-Orthodox to the army, they discriminate against women and they incite against the progressive Judaism stream. All that, in complete contrast to the commitment made by the founders of Israel (in the Declaration of Independence) on equal rights to all citizens; religion, race or gender making no difference. The Declaration of Independence promises that the Jewish state established as a solution for the homeless Jewish people would open the gates to all Jews. The founders of the state called on the Jewish people in the Diaspora to immigrate to Israel and stand by its side in the great struggle for the fulfillment of the dream of generations the redemption of Israel. The gates of the homeland remain open to all Jews, but the worlds biggest and most important Jewish community US Jewry is gradually distancing itself from the Jewish state. On the 71st anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, Israels redemption is shaping up to be the fulfillment of a messianic vision in the spirit of colonialism, a democracy based on the tyranny of the majority and on an anti-liberal orthodoxy. Kuwaiti parliament Speaker Marzouq al-Ghanem delivered an address April 22 to members of Russias upper house, the Federation Council. During his speech, Ghanem extolled the solid and deep-rooted partnership between Kuwait and Russia, and praised Russia for its opposition to US President Donald Trumps decision to recognize the Golan Heights as Israeli territory. Ghanems words of praise for Russian foreign policy is intriguing as they come at a time when US-Kuwait relations are getting stronger. In August 2018, the US military opened its largest aerial supply port in the Middle East near Kuwait International Airport, and US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo glorified the unprecedented strength of the US-Kuwait alliance during his visit to the country in late March. Despite these developments, Russia hopes to cooperate more closely with Kuwait on resolving regional conflicts, as both countries wish to burnish their reputations as conflict arbiters and establish an inclusive regional order that does not isolate Iran or Qatar. Russias diplomatic outreach to Kuwait has focused on increasing bilateral cooperation on ending the civil wars in Syria and Yemen and promoting intra-Gulf reconciliation. Russian policymakers believe that both countries can cooperate in Syria, as they share similar positions on the need for Bashar al-Assads government to normalize relations with other Arab countries and on investing in a Syrian government-led reconstruction process. Since the Syrian civil war began in 2011, Kuwait has consistently been more circumspect than Saudi Arabia and Qatar about isolating Assads government. Although Kuwait closed its embassy in Syria in 2012, it broke with the majority of its Gulf allies by keeping a Syrian Embassy open in Kuwait City. The Kuwaiti government also refused to officially sanction arms transfers to Syrian rebel forces, though Kuwaiti businessmen still donated funds to Islamist opposition factions in Syria. Despite alleged countervailing pressure from the United States and Saudi Arabia, Kuwait has supported Russias efforts to normalize Syrias relationships with other Arab countries. During his meeting with Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov in March, Kuwaiti Foreign Minister Sheikh Sabah Al-Khalid Al-Sabah claimed he would be very happy with the return of Syria to the Arab family and described Syria as a pivotal state in the region. Kuwait has also distinguished itself from many of its Gulf partners by expressing a desire to participate in Syrian government-led reconstruction initiatives, which are supported by Russia. During the September 2018 Damascus International Fair, Kuwaiti businesses joined their Russian counterparts in opening Kuwaits market to Syrian agricultural products. In October, Assad publicly praised Kuwaiti Emir Sheikh Sabah Al Ahmad Al Sabahs hosting of international fundraising summits for Syria in an interview with Kuwaiti newspaper Al-Shahed that was widely circulated in the Russian press. Although Kuwaits refusal to open its embassy in Damascus until the Arab League readmits Syria and arrest of pro-Assad businessman Mazen al-Tarazi could cause friction with Moscow, Russia hopes that the common ideas it shares with Kuwait on conflict resolution will lead to long-term cooperation in Syria. Russia also views Kuwait as a potentially helpful partner in Yemen, as Moscow seeks to bolster its reputation as a facilitator of dialogue between conflicting Yemeni factions. Much like their Russian counterparts, Kuwaiti diplomats have repeatedly emphasized the importance of implementing a political solution to the Yemeni civil war and facilitated the arrival of the Houthis at the peace talks in Stockholm in December. This convergence in perspectives was highlighted by Kuwaiti Deputy Foreign Minister Khalid Al-Jarallahs statements at the Arab-Russian Forum in Moscow last month. During this conference, Jarallah urged Russia to work with Kuwait on facilitating the implementation of UN Resolution 2216, which calls for a cease-fire in Yemen. Russia and Kuwait have also challenged US efforts to frame Iran as the leading agent of instability in Yemen. In February 2018, Kuwaits UN representative Mansour Ayyad al-Otaibi condemned Houthi ballistic missile strikes against Saudi Arabia, but mirrored Russias refusal to blame Iran for supplying missile technology to the Houthis. In December 2018, Russia and Kuwait blocked the passage of a British draft resolution in the UN Security Council, which included the US governments concerns about Irans military support for the Houthis. The preference of both countries for a UN resolution, which refused to single out particular nations for arms embargo violations, reflect Russia and Kuwaits mutual desire to shield Iran from UN criticism. Russia also views intra-Gulf reconciliation as an area of cooperation with Kuwait, as Moscow has consistently supported Kuwaiti mediation efforts since the Saudi Arabia-led Anti-Terror Quartet (ATQ) imposed a blockade on Qatar in June 2017. In August 2017, Lavrov traveled to Kuwait in order to highlight Moscows support for Kuwaiti mediation efforts in the Gulf and emphasized the importance of Gulf unity. During this trip, Lavrov announced he would spearhead a Moscow-led intra-Gulf reconciliation effort to supplement Kuwaits arbitration process, if this proposal gained a broad consensus within the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). Although Lavrov did not repeat this mediation offer during his most recent trip to Kuwait, Andrei Baklanov, the Russian ambassador to Saudi Arabia from 2000 to 2005, told Al-Monitor that Russia would still be willing to reprise this role in support of Kuwaits mediation efforts if it felt as if it was a desired third power in the Gulf. The prospects for enhanced Russia-Kuwait cooperation on intra-Gulf reconciliation were revealed by Lavrovs calls for the reestablishment of a Russia-GCC forum and consideration of potential concessions from both sides during his trip to the Gulf in March. In spite of Lavrovs efforts, Russias mediation initiatives gained little traction. This failure deals a blow to Russias efforts to demonstrate to Kuwaiti policymakers that its arbitration efforts can compete with US intra-Gulf reconciliation initiatives. Although the US-Kuwait alliance is as robust as ever, Russian policymakers are engaging in dialogue with their Kuwaiti counterparts with greater frequency, as Moscow wants to cooperate more closely with Kuwait on resolving regional security crises. Common ideas shared by Russia and Kuwait on ending the civil wars in Syria and Yemen and promoting intra-Gulf reconciliation could cause both countries to coordinate more closely on conflict resolution in the months to come. On May 6, the Idlib de-escalation zone saw a further deterioration of the situation. This zone, which spans parts of Idlib, Aleppo, Hama and Latakia provinces, is largely controlled by the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham militant group. The Syrian armed forces and pro-Iranian militia loyal to President Bashar al-Assad launched an offensive in the al-Ghab Plain in Hama and in Latakia. The armed forces mainly targeted the town of Kafr Nabudah in Hama; heavy fighting raged there when the Syrian military met fierce resistance from the National Liberation Front, with positions changing hands several times. In turn, the elite 42nd Brigade (Ghiath Forces) of Syria's 4th Armored Division, under command of Maher al-Assad, hit the community of Kabani in Latakia. The ground operation followed massive airstrikes by the Russian and Syrian air forces. However, the fighting has remained tactical, and the scale of a future campaign is yet to be seen. Sources in the Russian Defense Ministry told the Russian newspaper Kommersant that the intensified hostilities occurred because Hayat Tahrir al-Sham had massed forces in what appeared to be an intent to mount an assault on Hama and because of drone attacks and shelling of the Russian Khmeimim military base launched from the de-escalation zone. The Khmeimim air base was attacked by multiple rocket launchers twice, in the morning and in the evening. Both times the shelling came from the east, from the part of town of Zawiya that is in the Idlib de-escalation zone controlled by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, Maj. Gen. Viktor Kupchishin, head of the Russian Reconciliation Center for the warring parties in Syria, said May 6. Earlier that day, Reuters reported that Turkey-backed Syrian militants had said Moscow and Damascus were seeking to wrest control of two major highways in the northwest of the country, M4 from Aleppo to Latakia and M5 from Aleppo to Damascus. This could help pave the way for a resumption of transit from Turkey to Jordan, potentially shoring up Syrias sanctions-hit economy. Syrian pro-government sources also seek to portray the developments as the start of a full-scale military campaign. However, until recently Russia believed that an attack on Idlib was ill-timed, given the situation. On April 27, following his meeting with Chinese leader Xi Jinping , Russian President Vladimir Putin said at a press conference in Beijing that although a military operation in Idlib could not be ruled out, It would not be advisable at the moment, taking into consideration grave humanitarian consequences. Nevertheless, the sustained Turkish military presence in the de-escalation zone has virtually been the only factor standing in the way of large-scale Syrian military operation in Idlib. While Russia steps up airstrikes in the province to signal to Ankara the need to address the radicalism issue as soon as possible, the Assad regime acts in a willful and reckless manner using open provocations. Take, for instance, the shelling of Turkey's Jabal Shashabo observation post in al-Ghab Plain; this could trigger Ankaras own retaliation. Turkey has already sent its combat aircraft roaming the skies above Idlib. Without a compromise between Moscow and Ankara, it is impossible to tackle the Idlib issue. No doubt modalities for a Russian-Turkish deal are being discussed, yet one should bear in mind that they can always remain behind the scenes. Therefore one cannot rule out that concrete terms of the deal can only be revealed through relevant developments on the ground, as was the case during the parallel operations in early 2018 conducted by pro-Turkish forces and pro-government troops in Afrin and near Abu al-Duhur in the southeast of the Idlib de-escalation zone. For Ankara, seeing Idlib in the hands of anti-Assad groups is no longer important per se. There are, however, two factors that continue to require Turkey to maintain the status quo in the de-escalation zone. First, there are concerns over a spike in refugees that could flock to Turkey should the Syrian government attempt to bring the region under its control in an even more violent manner. Second, there is the possibility of brokering a Damascus-Ankara accord on northeastern Syria, with Idlib serving as a bargaining chip. Should Ankara drop its claims for Idlib, it could receive an opportunity to create its security zone on Syrian soil along Turkish border. However, this issue will likely remain unaddressed as long as American troops are stationed in the northeastern part of Syria. Thus, a potential Moscow-Ankara agreement may decide the fate of some parts of Idlib rather than the de-escalation zone at large. A few scenarios are possible for such a deal. First, one cannot rule out that the current spiral of escalation will produce no territorial changes in the de-escalation zone whatsoever. This is a likely scenario if Ankara once again does its best to convince Moscow of its ability to tackle the problem of radical elements and starts taking at least some practical steps toward this goal. This does not necessarily mean that Turkish troops and the pro-Turkish Syrian National Army have to crack down on Hayat Tahrir al-Sham but this could be feasible. Turkey may try to use its influence to pursue the gradual transformation of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham into a more moderate group, with no military wing in it. In this context, the Turkish army will also have to show its readiness to respond to Damascus activities in Idlib should they cross some red lines Ankara set for itself. Second, Turkey seeks to take control of Tel Rifaat, a region held by the Kurdish-led People's Protection Units (YPG) in northern Aleppo. While Moscow holds that Ankara has fallen short of fulfilling its Idlib commitments, Ankara points the finger at Moscow over the failure to honor its pledges on Tel Rifaat. Russia has promised us the removal of the YPG from Tel Rifaat, but they have unfortunately not delivered upon that so far, Turkish Defense Minister Hulusi Akar told the NTV news channel May 3. Negotiations on Tel Rifaat are reportedly underway. The deal may stipulate that some parts of Idlib be handed to Assads control in exchange for the deployment of Turkey-backed Syrian National Army troops to Tel Rifaat. Amid the pressure on Idlib, Turkey signaled its willingness to militarily handle the situation in Tel Rifaat. In a display of military might, the Turkish army seized the towns of al-Malikiyah and Maraanaz on May 4. The agreement was for us to stop there [Tel Rifaat], but if these attacks continue, this may take a different shape. We are discussing this with Russia, Turkish Vice President Fuat Oktay was quoted as saying. Meanwhile, Damascus, which believes that too many concessions have already been made to Ankara, may throw a wrench into the works. As part of the agreement, the Syrian government might consent to a resolution on the Tel Rifaat issue in return for establishing control of a larger portion of the Idlib de-escalation zone, to the south and southeast of the M4 highway. In this case, Assads opponents and Turkish forces would retain control over a 20-kilometer-wide strip of land along the Turkish border with Idlib province. The territory could become home to refugee camps. At the same time, one should take into consideration that such asymmetric deals could undermine the position of Turkeys ruling coalition and Erdogan himself. Conservative governors and legislators are using new highly restrictive abortion laws to get abortion back in front of what they believe is the most friendly U.S. Supreme Court in decades. Sixteen states have passed or are scrambling to pass bans on abortion after a doctor can detect what they call "a fetal heartbeat in the womb," usually about six weeks, before many women know they are pregnant. That includes Georgia, where Republican Gov. Brian Kemp signed a "heartbeat bill" into law on Tuesday. Separately, the Alabama Senate is poised to vote this week on legislation that could become the nations strictest abortion law, making it a felony to receive an abortion. Full coverage of Alabamas abortion debate In a countermove, lawmakers in a growing number of states are racing to amend state constitutions to provide a backstop for the possible overturn of Roe v. Wade, the 1973 Supreme Court ruling that legalized abortion. Vermont on Tuesday passed a bill that would enshrine abortion rights in the state constitution, with similar legislation in the works in 12 other states, including New Mexico, Nevada and Rhode Island. With the end of the state legislative season in sight, politicians on both ends of the political spectrum are preparing for the issue to come before the Supreme Court. Tom McClusky, president of March for Life Education and Defense Fund, which opposes abortion, said bills that ban abortion after six weeks "lay the groundwork for pushing the envelope of life even farther" and that the antiabortion movement is looking to Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts Jr. and Justice Brett Kavanaugh to provide a resolution to the debate that has divided America for decades. "What we'd like to do is change the culture so that no family facing this situation would think of the option of abortion," he said. The American Civil Liberties Union and other critics including medical lobbies have called bans on abortions after six weeks - which have been struck down by at least two courts - draconian, unscientific and part of a deliberate strategy to pass increasingly radical laws in hopes of getting the issue before the U.S. Supreme Court. They have vowed to bring a lawsuit targeting the legislation - and promised electoral payback as well. Leana Wen, president of the Planned Parenthood Action Fund, said in an interview that the Georgia legislation is part of a larger landscape of nearly 300 antiabortion bills introduced so far this year in 36 states. Many of them contain far-reaching provisions, such as one in Georgia that would allow authorities to investigate women who miscarry and one in Texas that would allow capital punishment for those receiving or performing an abortion. "This is an extremely dangerous time for women's health all around the country," Wen said. Georgia, which previously banned abortion after 20 weeks of pregnancy, is the fourth state to enact a six-week ban in 2019. Similar "heartbeat" bills are in the works in 10 other states - Missouri, Tennessee, Florida, Illinois, Louisiana, Maryland, Minnesota, New York, South Carolina and West Virginia - according to the Guttmacher Institute. A federal judge has already blocked Kentucky's law. Other courts struck down similar laws that were recently enacted in Iowa and North Dakota. Signing the bill in Georgia on Tuesday, Kemp said he is upholding his promise to enact the "toughest abortion bill in the country." "Georgia is a state that values life," Kemp said before putting his signature to the Life Act. "We stand up for those who are unable to speak for themselves." Doctors who oppose the legislation say that what appears to be a heartbeat at six weeks is simply a vibration of developing tissues that could not exist without the mother. That vibration is a medical term called "embryonic cardiac activity." The Georgia bill made national headlines after actress and women's rights activist Alyssa Milano hand-delivered a letter to Kemp's office last month to protest it. The letter was signed by 50 celebrities who vowed to boycott the state, which has a growing television industry, if the bill was signed into law. Like some other versions, Georgia's law includes exceptions for incest, rape and situations of medical futility or where the health of the mother is at stake. But unlike the others, Georgia's says a fetus is a "natural person" and "human being" once a heartbeat is detected. The ban passed by Alabamas House last week intentionally excludes exceptions for victims of rape or incest to enhance its chances of getting to the Supreme Court, said Alabama state Rep. Terri Collins, R. The Alabama Senate Judiciary Committee, however, on Wednesday adopted an amendment to allow abortions in cases of pregnancies caused by rape or incest. The amendment, by Sen. Tom Whatley, R-Auburn, was adopted on a voice vote. The full Senate will consider the amendment again when the bill reaches the Senate floor on Thursday. The law also criminalizes abortion, and doctors would face felony prison time of up to 99 years if convicted. Alabama state senators are expected to debate the legislation next week, and while some have expressed concern over the no exceptions clause, they understand that its Collinss strategy. Republicans control the Alabama Senate, holding 27 of 35 seats, and Gov. Kay Ivey is expected to support the bill, though spokeswoman Lori Jhons said the governor is withholding comment as the bill works its way through the Senate. Opposition to the bill has been fierce, and Democratic lawmakers walked out in protest before the final vote. During debate, they questioned the motive for an abortion ban in a state that has refused to expand Medicaid. I do support life, but there are some people that just support birth; they dont support life, said Democratic state Rep. Merika Coleman of Birmingham. Because after a child is born, there are some things that need to happen. We need to make sure that child has adequate health care. Last month, the Kansas Supreme Court ruled that the state's constitution fundamentally protects abortion rights, blocking a state law that aimed to restrict a common procedure. At least nine states in addition to Kansas have constitutions that specifically protect a woman's right to an abortion, according to state high court rulings: Alaska, California, Florida, Iowa, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Montana, New Jersey and New Mexico. Other states, including Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Maine, Maryland, Nevada, New York, Oregon and Washington have statutory protection for abortion rights, according to the Center for Reproductive Rights. In January, New York lawmakers passed a law removing barriers for women seeking to get abortions later in pregnancy, and Virginia moved to do the same, sparking outrage from conservatives. The Alabama House of Representatives passed a bill today giving the governor the authority to appoint the director of the Alabama Board of Pardons and Paroles. The bill, by Rep. Connie Rowe, R-Jasper, passed after the Republican majority voted to end hours of debate with Democrats who said the bill would wrongly shift power to the governor, was not needed and was a knee-jerk reaction to one tragedy. Last year, Jimmy ONeal Spencer, who had a lengthy criminal record, was charged with killing two women and a 7-year old boy in Guntersville after he was paroled. Attorney General Steve Marshall was at the State House this afternoon and hailed Rowes bill as an important reform that will make the Board of Pardons and Paroles more accountable. Currently, the three-member board appoints the agencys director. Marshall noted that the governor appoints the secretary of the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency and the commissioner of the Alabama Department of Corrections and should also appoint the director of Pardons and Paroles. Number one is to create accountability when it doesnt exist currently, Marshall said. The board itself appoints the director whos accountable to nobody and clearly no elected official. This gives the governor the opportunity to appoint not only the head of ALEA, the head the Department of Corrections but now also the head of the Pardon and Parole Board so that we have accountability within the criminal justice system directly to the governor. The bill would write into state law guidelines for when offenders can be considered for early parole. Marshall said the bill would shift administrative responsibility for running the state agency from the three board members to the governor-appointed director. We want to make sure that that board itself is singularly focused on those files before them when they make parole decisions. We think that will allow them to spend more time directly on issues that relate to public safety, Marshall said. Rowe, a former police chief in Jasper, said its appropriate to place operations of the Board of Pardons and Paroles under the authority of the states top elected official. Rowe said the bill also strengthens requirements to notify crime victims and their families about parole hearings. They deserve to be there, Rowe said. They deserve to speak for their families and to speak for their victims who can no longer speak. Ivey and Marshall met with the parole board last October after prosecutors and victims groups complained that too many offenders were receiving consideration for early parole. Ivey issued a 75-day moratorium on early paroles and ordered the board to develop a corrective action plan, which the board did. Last month, the board issued a statement acknowledging some mistakes but said it has demonstrated accountability by responding to the governors requests. The board rejected assertions that it was not following its own rules and that the parole system was broken. Rowes bill passed by a vote of 73-27 and moves to the Senate, where a similar bill is pending. The Alabama Senate hurriedly passed a bill this morning to allow medical marijuana. The Senate voted 17-6 for the bill, sponsored by Sen. Tim Melson, R-Florence, an anesthesiologist and medical researcher. The Senate took the vote shortly after saying the Pledge of Allegiance to start the day. There was no discussion of the bill before the vote. The Senate discussed the bill on Wednesday but delayed a vote. The bill moves to the House of Representatives. Melson said Alabama would be the 34th state to adopt medical marijuana. Melson said he believes medical marijuana offers potential help for people who havent gotten help from available treatment options and said it could help reduce reliance on opioids. I think down the road were going to see more benefits and minimal, minimal abuse of this, Melson said. Melson said the bill includes sufficient gatekeepers to prevent abuse of medical marijuana. Under the bill, a doctor could recommend the use of cannabis to treat the symptoms associated with about a dozen conditions listed in the bill, including: autism spectrum disorder; epilepsy; cancer; degenerative or pervasive neurological disorders; glaucoma; HIV/AIDS; multiple sclerosis; muscle disorders, including those associated with muscle spasms; opioid addiction; pain syndromes or pain associated with other medical conditions; and post traumatic stress disorder. A doctor would have to conduct a physical examination before making the recommendation. The doctor would refer the patient to a second doctor who is a specialist in treating the qualifying condition, Melson said. Doctors recommending medical cannabis would have to receive 10 hours of continuing education in cannabis treatment annually. The bill would create an 11-member Alabama Medical Cannabis Commission. Among its initial responsibilities would be to create an application form for a medical cannabis card; establish a website for public access and information; and establish a patient registry. Doctors issuing patients a certification to patients to receive medical marijuana would enter the patients names in the registry. The governor, Senate president pro tem and House speaker would each appoint three members to the commission. The attorney general would appoint two. The law sets qualifications for commission members. Some would have to be physicians specializing in certain areas, including neurology, physical pain management, oncology and psychiatry. Appointees would include a pharmacist, a mental health/substance abuse professional and two members with experience in agriculture. This story was edited at 4:44 p.m. on May 27 to correct the name of the Alabama Medical Cannabis Commission. The Alabama Senate debated today but took no vote on a bill that would allow the use of medical marijuana in Alabama. The sponsor, Sen. Tim Melson, R-Florence, an anesthesiologist and medical researcher, said he expects the Senate to reconsider the bill again soon and expects it to pass. Melson said Alabama would be the 34th state to approve medical marijuana. Melson said he would not have supported medical marijuana a couple of years ago but has studied the issue and said it has shown potential for helping patients who have not found satisfactory relief from treatments that are now available. I just think its the right thing to do, Melson said. "Its time. A lot of literature out there that shows that this works. Lets give it a chance." Sen. Larry Stutts, R-Sheffield, an obstetrician and gynecologist, questioned Melson about the merits of medical marijuana, asserting that there was a lack of research and support from mainstream medical organizations. For example, the executive director of the Alabama Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics, spoke out against the bill at a public hearing two weeks ago. At that same meeting, a neurology professor at UAB who helped lead a study on the treatment of epilepsy with a cannabis derivative, spoke in favor of the bill. The UAB study was authorized by Carlys Law, which was passed by the Legislature in 2014. Todays debate on the bill was essentially a two-man exchange between Melson and Stutts. The two doctors know each other well. Melson said he has provided anesthesia for many medical procedures with Stutts since the early 1990s. Melson said he did not expect to convince Stutts to support medical marijuana but said he thinks the bill has enough support to pass the Senate. Its not a Republican or Democrat issue to me, Melson said. Its a patient issue. And when youve got patients out there that have certain medical conditions that they could benefit from it, I think its time to give them the opportunity to participate in it. The Alabama Senate delayed until next week a vote on a bill to ban abortion after an uproar over a key amendment. The Senate abruptly removed a rape and incest exception from the bill without allowing a roll call vote on that decision. The move shocked Senate Minority Leader Bobby Singleton, D-Greensboro, who had just said at the Senate mic that he wanted a roll call vote on every question concerning the abortion bill. Singleton and other Democratic senators strongly objected to Lt. Gov. Will Ainsworth, who presides over the Senate, for his quick gavel on tabling the rape and incest amendment on a voice vote, meaning there is no recorded vote. Full coverage of the Alabama abortion debate Ainsworth said he followed Senate rules. As that disagreement simmered, Senate President Pro Tem Del Marsh, R-Anniston, moved to delay a vote on the abortion bill until next week. We can come back in here on Tuesday and have extended debate and make that final decision," Marsh said. Marsh supports the rape and incest amendment and said he expects a vote on it next week when the Senate reconsiders the bill. The bill, which passed the House last week, is intended to trigger a challenge to the Roe v. Wade decision. Doctors would be charged with a felony for performing or attempting to perform an abortion. The woman would not be liable. The bill would allow abortions to protect the woman from serious health risks. The bill passed the House of Representatives by a 74-3 vote last week, with the Republican majority supporting it. Democrats opposed the bill and offered amendments but most did not participate in the final vote. The Senate Judiciary Committee approved the bill on Wednesday and added the rape and incest amendment that was removed by the Senate today. After the Senate adjourned, Singleton said Ainsworth gave him and other senators no chance to react to the move to strip the rape and incest exception from the bill. Hes just supposed to sit and observe the Senate and go by the rules and thats all I expect from his is fairness, Singleton said. "And if hes going to be like that then we can start to shutting this whole darn Senate down. And we will definitely do that. That was unfair. Youve got the super majority. You can pass any bill that you want. Youve got 27 men over on the other side ready to tell women what they can do with their bodies. You can do that if you want to. You dont have to procedurally just try to run over us. Ainsworth defended his actions. He said the motion by Sen. Clyde Chambliss to table the rape and incest amendment is not debatable under Senate rules. He cited a Senate rule that says it takes three or more senators to require a roll call vote. There was a motion made to table," Ainsworth said. "Its not debatable. There was not three hands raised. So, were moving on. Sen. Vivian Davis Figures, D-Mobile, told Ainsworth that Singleton had made it clear he wanted roll call votes. I know you all are for this bill and I know this bill is going to pass, Figures said. Youre going to get your way. But at least treat us fairly and do it the right way. Thats all that I ask. Thats all that my Democratic colleagues ask. Marsh said after the disagreement, he wanted the Senate to set the reset button on the bill by taking the weekend to think about it. Let people go home, talk to their constituents and come back," Marsh said. "And quite honestly, next Tuesday when we come back, everybody has the ability to offer amendments at that time, could offer the same amendment that was just stripped off. So, were at a place that people I believe will feel they continue to be part of this process, as they should be on such an important issue as this. Marsh did not fault Ainsworth for the quick gavel. I believe the lieutenant governor followed procedure, Marsh said. I think that people maybe had their guard down a little bit. Maybe didnt expect a voice vote. But he has every right to do that and thats what he did and thats what happened. But Singleton said its important that votes are recorded on the abortion bill. "I know its a non-debatable motion. I know the rules. But at least allow us to be able to vote on it. They just didnt want to be on the record voting on it, to strip that amendment off the bill. I want the people of the state of Alabama to know how we vote. I think the people have a right to know how we vote. One more funeral, one less witness to the worlds worst war. Bernard Dargols lived almost long enough to join the celebrations next month marking 75 years since the D-Day, 75 years since he waded onto Omaha Beach as an American soldier to help liberate France from the Nazis who persecuted his Jewish family. Just shy of his 99th birthday, Dargols died last week. To the strains of his beloved American jazz, he was laid to rest Thursday at France's most famous cemetery, Pere Lachaise. An ever-smaller number of veterans will stand on Normandy's shores on June 6 for D-Day's 75th anniversary. Many will salute fallen comrades from their wheelchairs. As each year passes, more firsthand witnesses to history are gone. Four weeks from now, U.S. President Donald Trump and other world leaders will pay homage to the more than 2 million American, British, Canadian and other Allied forces involved in the D-Day operation on June 6, 1944, and the ensuing battle for Normandy that helped pave the way for Hitler's defeat. Dargols outlived most of them, and knew the importance of sustaining their memory. "I'm convinced that we have to talk about the war to children, so that they understand how much they need to preserve the peace," he wrote in a 2012 memoir. Until the end, Dargols battled complacency, intolerance and Holocaust deniers who claim that D-Day was "just a movie." In recent years, "seeing any type of violence, of anti-Semitism and racism, either in France in Europe or in the U.S." really upset him, granddaughter Caroline Jolivet said. Normandy schoolteachers, veterans' families and military memorials are laboring against time to record survivors' stories for posterity. In history's biggest amphibious invasion, on that fateful June 6, some 160,000 Allied forces came ashore to launch Operation Overlord to wrest Normandy from Nazi control. More than 4,000 Allied forces were killed on that day alone. Nearly half a million people were killed on both sides by the time the Allies liberated Paris in August 1944. It's unclear exactly how many D-Day veterans are alive today. The survivors are now in their 90s or 100s. Of the 73,000 Americans who took part, just 30 are currently scheduled to come to France for this year's anniversary. The U.S. Veterans Administration estimates that about 348 American World War II veterans die every day. All but three of the 177 French forces involved in D-Day are gone. Every day, the names of the departed accumulate, tweeted by veterans groups, published in local newspapers. Dargols wanted to be in Normandy this year, it meant a lot to him. His story is both unusual and emblematic: Born in France, he left Paris in 1938 for New York to learn his father's sewing machine trade. He watched from afar, sickened, as the Nazis occupied his homeland. His Jewish relatives were sent to camps, or fled in fear. Determined to fight back but skeptical of French General Charles de Gaulle's resistance force, he joined the U.S. Army instead. With the 2nd Infantry Division, Dargols sailed from Britain on June 5 and only made it to Normandy on June 8, after three interminable days on choppy seas. The road he took inland from Omaha Beach now carries his name. The battle to wrest Normandy from the Nazis took longer than the Allies thought, but for Dargols the prize at the end was invaluable. When he made it to Paris, he went to his childhood apartment and found his mother unexpectedly alive. For four decades, he didn't talk much about the war. But as more and more survivors died, and at his granddaughter's urging, he realized the importance of speaking out and sharing his stories with schools and journalists. Friends and family remembered him Thursday as shy but courageous, a lover of oysters and pastrami sandwiches, known for his mischievous smile. Jolivet, his granddaughter, told the AP of his yearning for leaders who "bring people together, instead of divide them." Dargols would have had a clear message for the D-Day anniversary, she said: "Never take democracy for granted. Dictatorship is always a bad solution. Violence is always a bad solution. Keep democracy alive. Fight for democracy, for freedom, for peace." The cultural director at Normandy's World War II memorial in Caen, Isabelle Bournier, frets about this fading message, as she watches schoolchildren cycle through her museum every day. "The parents and grandparents of 13-year-olds today didn't experience the war, so the family stories, the family history where helmets are brought out, where we spoke about what it was like has been lost," she said. "They don't know the names of the landing beaches," she says. "Pupils spend less time studying World War II than they did 30 years ago, and so the role of D-Day has been reduced." Dargols himself worried about the day when all the veterans will be gone. It could start again, he wrote in his memoir. We must be vigilant, at all times. A move to reduce the penalty for marijuana possession in Alabama stalled today even after the bill was changed to say that the lesser penalty would apply to a much smaller amount of pot. The House Judiciary Committee voted 6-5 against a bill to make possession of five grams or less a violation, less than a misdemeanor, and punishable only by a fine. The bill initially said possession of an ounce or less would be a violation. At a meeting last week, some representatives said that was going too far in lessening the penalty. A subcommittee recommended dropping the amount to five grams. An ounce contains 28 grams. Still, some representatives said the bill went too far, noting that possession of five grams or less would be a violation even on multiple, repeat offenses. Voting against the bill were Reps. Dickie Drake, R-Leeds; Allen Farley, R-McCalla; David Faulkner, R-Mountain Brook; Mike Holmes, R-Wetumpka; Phillip Pettus, R-Killen; and Matt Simpson, R-Daphne. Voting for the bill were Chairman Jim Hill, R-Moody; Tim Wadsworth, R-Arley; Mike Ball, R-Madison; Prince Chestnut, D-Selma; and Chris England, D-Tuscaloosa. Rep. Laura Hall, D-Huntsville, the sponsor of the bill, said she was disappointed because the changes in the bill were based on recommendations from law enforcement at a subcommittee meeting on Tuesday. I really left that meeting thinking weve reduced the amount and it was agreeable and that was it, Hall said. But obviously, I missed the part of another conversation. Hall said she was not giving up on the bill and would request meetings next week with prosecutors, law enforcement or others who have concerns about it. Under current law, possession of marijuana for personal use is a misdemeanor and rises to a felony on a second offense. Under Halls bill, as amended today, amounts more than 5 grams up to an ounce would be a misdemeanor. Amounts more than an ounce would be a felony. A bill from an Alabama lawmaker would do away with a provision that allows students to receive religious exemptions from vaccinations. Rep. Scott Stadthagen, R-Hartselle, filed the bill Wednesday. You can see it here. Our nation currently faces an immediate public health crisis stemming from the rapid spread of communicable disease, the bill noted. Many of these disease are preventable due to the wide availability of vaccinations and the advancement of modern medicine. In order to combat the spread of communicable diseases, citizens of this state should be vigilant about shielding themselves from those disease through all available means. Therefore, all citizens of this state, including students in public or private schools, who are medically able to receive vaccinations for the most dangerous communicable disease should do so for the betterment of the overall health of this state. The bill would leave exemptions for medical reasons in place. The measure has been referred to the House Committee on Health. According to the Alabama Department of Education, there are currently 3,587 students in state schools that have religious exemptions from vaccinations. Students in both public and private schools in Alabama are required present documentation proving theyve received vaccinations for diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus, polio, measles, mumps, rubella and chickenpox. Almost every state, however, allows for some type of exemption, with Alabama permitting exceptions for those who object to vaccinations on religious or medical reasons. Some states also allow for personal/conscientious belief objections. Currently, the Certificate of Religious Exemption can only be issued by the county health department. Applicants must submit a written objection and watch a video on the importance of vaccinations before the certificate is issued but are not required to prove membership of a church that objects to vaccinations. Religious exemptions have drawn increased scrutiny amid a resurgence of measles, a highly contagious virus that the Centers for Disease Control said it spreading among unvaccinated populations. Chick-fil-A is out and Chicken Salad Chick is apparently in at Mobiles Government Plaza. The Auburn-based eatery founded in 2008 will open its first downtown Mobile location inside the county-owned tower, assuming the Mobile County Commission approves a memorandum of understanding between the two parties on Monday. County Attorney Jay Ross said Thursday that Chicken Salad Chick will serve lunches only, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. five days a week. He said the service, if approved by the commission, will begin within the next couple of weeks. Theyve given us their menu, but I think it will need to be pared down, said Ross, who confirmed that he just received the proposed agreement with Chicken Salad Chick and that a final memorandum of understanding will be ready for a vote come Monday. Corporate issue Chick-fil-A, meanwhile, is out after a local franchise owner was unable to get corporate approval to begin serving breakfast and lunches inside Government Plaza. A Chick-fil-A spokesperson did not respond to an immediate request for comment. Ross said he wasnt exactly sure why Chick-fil-A was out, other than to say it was an issue at the corporate level. All we know is its a corporate entity saying they wont do it, Ross said. I dont know if they operate out in government buildings. We havent heard the details. These franchisees are regulated heavily on what they do. Chick-fil-A has, in recent months, been at the forefront of the culture wars stemming from its alleged political position opposing same-sex marriage. The San Antonio City Council, in March, voted to ban the chain from opening inside its international airport, with some elected officials citing concerns about the companys anti-LGBTQ stances. The council narrowly rejected a proposal to reconsider that vote last month. The San Antonio council action has sparked similar activities elsewhere. In Buffalo, N.Y., a concessions company declined the company from opening a location at the Buffalo Niagara International Airport. The restaurant chain is located at 10 colleges and universities in Alabama, and is a popular destination within hundreds of college food courts nationwide. But faculty and students at two universities California Polytechnic State and Trinity University in San Antonio are pushing for the removal of Chick-fil-A locations from their campuses. Chick-fil-A, in the Buffalo incident, released a statement saying that media coverage is driving an inaccurate narrative about the brand, and that the company employees more than 145,000 from different backgrounds and beliefs. In Mobile, Chick-fil-As memorandum of understanding to start food service at Government Plaza was approved in late March, or around the same time the controversies stemming from the San Antonio council action erupted. The vote was 2-1, with Republican Commissioners Connie Hudson and Jerry Carl voting to support the agreement, and Democratic Commissioner Merceria Ludgood voting against. Obligation to restaurant owners But the decisions from the Mobile County officials had nothing to do with Chick-fil-A politics. Hudson said she supported the convenience of offering a restaurant option within the government building for the hundreds of jurors who come to Government Plaza, as well as for city and county employees. The food service was supposed to take place in April. It never began, prompting city and county officials to wonder when the chicken sandwiches and biscuits were arriving. Hudson was not at Thursdays meeting. Ludgood voted against the March agreement with Chick-fil-A and said she plans to do so again opposing Chicken Salad Chick. Her opposition for both is the same: She doesnt want the publicly owned Government Plaza hosting an eatery that is in competition with downtowns privately owned restaurants. I still feel an obligation to our private restaurant owners who invested so much into their businesses downtown, said Ludgood. I dont want to set up head-to-head competition, which is what I feel like were doing. Chicken Salad Chick operates three restaurants within a relatively short driving distance to downtown Mobile in Daphne, off U.S. 98 and Daphne Avenue, and in Mobile at Old Shell Road and University Boulevard and at Hillcrest and Cottage Hill Roads. Ross said the county reached out to Chicken Salad Chick after learning that Chick-fil-A wasnt coming. Ross said that Chicken Salad Chick will not prepare its food inside Government Plaza. The food will be prepared, he said, at one of its nearby locations and brought into Government Plaza. Chick-fil-A, as originally planned, was going to transport prepared food items from its downtown location inside the RSA Battlehouse Hotel at 12 N. Royal St. It was originally scheduled to serve breakfast sandwiches such as chicken biscuits, and lunch items including chicken sandwiches. Chicken Salad Chick now stands to be the first chain to open a location inside Government Plaza since Starbucks, which closed about a decade ago. A small convenience mart, serving hot dogs, has remained the only permanent food service inside the building. It is unclear how much Chicken Salad Chick will pay the county to offer lunches. Chick-fil-A, in its agreement with the county, was supposed to pay the county a commission of 10 percent of pre-tax sales for the right to utilize a small section of the building that faces Government Street. The agreement also allowed Chick-fil-A full access to a small kitchen area where restaurants, such as Cafe 205, once operated. This story was updated at 5:42 p.m. on Thursday, May 9, 2019, to add that Chicken Salad Chick will serve lunches at Government Plaza from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. five days a week. A starting date has not yet been determined. Chris McNair, the father of one the girls killed in a 1963 church bombing and who was later elected to the Jefferson County Commission and imprisoned for bribery, has died. He was 93. Mr. McNair and his family are forever tied to our countrys civil-rights legacy, Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin said in a statement. When he tragically lost his daughter, Denise, in the Sixteenth Street Baptist Church bombing in 1963, his courage and fortitude fueled our march for peace. He was the consummate family man, showcasing an unconditional love for humanity that paved the way for social justice in Birmingham and in our nation. Our hearts go out to the family and friends of former state legislator and Jefferson County Commissioner Chris McNair,... Posted by Randall Woodfin on Wednesday, May 8, 2019 McNair, a Fordyce, Ark. native, was the father of Denise McNair, killed in the KKKs bombing of Sixteenth Street Baptist Church on Sept. 15, 1963. He took it with grace, said state Rep. John Rogers, D-Birmingham, a longtime friend of McNairs, about Denises death. He was a great person and Im going to miss him, Rogers said. He was a great guy, a great friend. Rogers noted that McNair was one of the first blacks on the county commission and in Montgomery, where McNair was a state representative in the 1970s. A photographer who was later elected to the Jefferson County Commission, McNair was convicted of bribery and conspiracy to solicit bribes in April 2006 in connection with Jefferson County sewer construction. He also pleaded guilty in February 2007 to soliciting $140,000 in other sewer construction bribes from contractors. The bribery charges centered on money and services provided by contractors for construction on McNair's photography studio. McNair contended that the money and help from sewer contractors stemmed from friendship and not some quid pro quo to get business from the county. When McNair reported to prison on June 6, 2011, he was the last to go to prison of 21 people convicted in public corruption cases involving the sewer system construction and financing for the project. Four of the defendants were given probation, and the remainder received various prison sentences. McNair lost appeals to the U.S. 11th Circuit Court of Appeals and the U.S. Supreme Court before being ordered to prison to begin serving his sentence. While in prison McNair was required to have a portion of his monthly Jefferson County pension garnished to help pay the $425,000 in court-ordered restitution he owed the county. U.S. District Court Judge Lynwood Smith in August 2013 issued an order for McNairs release from the federal medical facility in Rochester, Minn., where he was serving his five year sentence. His release came just before the 50th anniversary of the church bombing. Sen. Doug Jones, D-Ala., was McNairs attorney at the time and helped secure his release. A Huntsville capital murder suspect today was sentenced to prison for violating probation in a prior burglary case. Delvon Barnett, 29, was sentenced to more than 13 years in prison in connection with the 2016 burglary conviction. Its because of his arrest in the recent slaying of a man at a Huntsville gas station that Barnett was in court today for a probation violation hearing. In 2016, Barnett was sentenced to 15 years as part of a plea deal in the burglary case, court records show. But the sentence was split for him to serve 18 months in prison followed by five years of probation. After he was charged with capital murder, prosecutors said his arrest on a new criminal charge was a violation of the terms of his probation. Today, Madison County Circuit Judge James Smith agreed and ordered Barnett to serve the remainder of his 15-year sentence in prison. The Court determines that no measure short of incarceration will avoid depreciating the seriousness of the violation considering the basis of the original offense and the intervening conduct of the defendant, Smith wrote in an order. In the slaying case, Barnett is accused of killing 41-year-old James Edwin Jones during a drug deal at the Fuel City gas station on U.S. 72 in north Huntsville. On the night of March 26, Jones and his wife met Barnett to buy meth at the Fuel City gas station on U.S. 72 in north Huntsville, according to preliminary hearing testimony. Jones was to pay $450 for an ounce of meth, Investigator Michael DeNoon testified, but instead, Barnett pulled a gun and demanded Jones money before the shooting. In an interview with police, Barnett alleged that Jones tried to rob him of the meth, according to DeNoon. After the shooting, Jones drove away from the gas station but crashed his vehicle about a block down the street. Jones was killed by a shot to the lower back, according to police. The murder weapon was a Smith and Wesson 9mm pistol, court records show. Barnett is held without bail in the Madison County jail, pending transfer to the Alabama Department of Corrections. At a preliminary hearing last week, defense attorneys Robin Wolfe and Ron Smith asked District Judge Patrick Tuten to set bail. Tuten denied the request in a written order. In his denial, Tuten said because Barnett has at least three prior felony convictions, he automatically faces a life without parole sentence if convicted in the slaying. Further, Mr. Barnett was on probation at the time of this alleged offense, while, by his own alleged statement, he was carrying a firearm and distributing methamphetamine, Tuten said. The slaying case will be presented to a grand jury for consideration of indictment, which is a formal notice of criminal charges. The grand jurors will decide whether prosecutors have probable cause for the capital murder charge against Barnett. Update 9:52 p.m.: The deputy was hospitalized, the sheriffs office said. No other vehicles were involved in the incident: 5-8-18 at 8:20pm a Jefferson County Sheriffs deputy was involved in a vehicle accident on I 20 east just before marker 140. The deputy has been transported to the hospital for treatment of his injuries. There were no other vehicles involved. ALEA is working the accident. Jeff Co Sheriff (@JeffCoSheriff) May 9, 2019 Original story: A Jefferson County sheriffs deputys vehicle reportedly overturned on I-20 in Birmingham, causing the highway to be shut down in both directions Wednesday night, according to police radio traffic and the state Department of Transportation. Crash involving Overturned Vehicle on I-20 both dir. @ MP134.6 past Exit 136: I-459 in Birmingham. Road closed. Seek alternate route. More details: https://t.co/AJFqrI7KGD ALGO Birmingham (@algo_bhm) May 9, 2019 Calls that the vehicle was overturned started coming in to police dispatch around 8:20 p.m. The wreck occurred near the I-459 exit. Authorities said they shut down traffic in both directions because they could not locate the deputy. He was eventually found around 8:45 p.m. and evaluated by Birmingham Fire and Rescue. The deputys condition was not immediately known but police dispatchers said the incident was a bad wreck. This is an opinion column. Ive seen Alabama lawmakers try some stupid things, but never anything so cowardly. On Thursday, lawmakers were set to vote to force victims of rape and incest to have their rapists babies only some of them didnt want their names attached to the bill. Instead, Lt. Gov. Will Ainsworth tried to push the near-total abortion ban through without a roll call vote on amendments that would have created exceptions for rape and incest. Gutless. The bill didnt pass. It was carried over after Democrats and some Republicans raised hell. There will likely be a do-over next week. But you need to see this, Alabama. Because the whole country is going to see this. And you need to let these folks know whether they speak for you. And once the vote is taken, you have a right to know where your lawmakers stood. Heres how it went down. Last week, the Alabama House passed what would be the strictest abortion ban in the country. The bill, sponsored by state Rep. Terri Collins, R-Decatur, would make abortions in all instances, except when the mothers life is in danger, a felony. That bill did not include the exceptions that have been boilerplate in these things before for pregnancies that result from rape or incest. Collins argued that those exceptions had to be left out because the bill is designed to challenge Roe v. Wade. Its not an incremental chipping-away at the landmark Supreme Court decision, but a direct assault. That bill passed the Alabama House. As cruel as the bill might be to rape victims, at least the lawmakers in the lower house put their names on it. At least they owned their votes. But not in the Alabama Senate. On Wednesday, the bill moved through the Alabama Senate Judiciary Committee, but not before Sen. Tom Whatley, R-Auburn, introduced amendments to it including exceptions for rape and incest. It was a small victory. And a short-lived one. Before Democrats could get a word in at the podium, the bills Senate sponsor, Sen. Clyde Chambliss, R-Prattville, motioned to table the amendments. Lt. Gov. Will Ainsworth upheld the motion before anyone could demand a roll call vote. In short, they intended to ram this thing through without anyone else having to put their names on it. State Sen. Bobby Singleton, D-Greensboro, erupted in anger. Chambliss muttered and sputtered while Singleton shouted over him. Ainsworth tried to gavel Singleton down. Some Republicans, including Sen. Cam Ward, R-Alabaster, and Senate Pro Tem Del Marsh, R-Anniston, stood behind the Democrats and seemed to take their side. State Senator Vivian Figures, D-Mobile, appealed to her colleagues for fairness. I know this bill is going to pass, Figures said. You are going to get your way. But at least treat us fairly and do it the right way. Thats all that I ask. Thats all that my Democratic colleagues ask. Thats all that women in this state ask, both Democratic and Republican women. Ultimately, Marsh moved that the Senate hold over the bill until the call of the chair and adjourn. He encouraged his colleagues to take the weekend to cool off and speak with their constituents. Thats a lot of procedural back-and-forth, but heres what it means. It means that when some poor young girl, inevitably, has to have her dirty uncles baby, the Alabama lawmakers who vote for this thing dont want their names attached to it. It means all the talk about personal responsibility is just talk. It means owning choices is something for women in Alabama (even when they never had a choice) but not for Alabama lawmakers. It means theyre scared. It means they are cowards. It means they are hypocrites. And it means the newly elected lieutenant governor was not just going to let them get away with it. He tried to help. (Ainsworth insisted to me later that the voice vote wasnt rushed and that it was fair. Im embedding video of it here so you can watch and decide for yourself.) TAKE A LOOK: Lawmakers were discussing this bill that would have banned nearly all abortions. The Senate removed an amendment that added exceptions in cases of rape and incest. Right after a quick voice vote to strip the amendment chaos broke out. pic.twitter.com/rygpucN0s2 Alabama Politics (@AlabamaPolitics) May 9, 2019 Figures argued that todays chaos was over fairness, but its about more than that. This is about accountability and character and those whod walk away from all those things. If youre going to do this, lawmakers, dont hide. Dont cheat. And dont lie. Take responsibility for it. If youre going to bring this bill into the world, let everybody know who the father was. [Correction: A previous version of this column said it was state Sen. Bobby Singleton who introduced amendments in committee. In fact, it was state Sen. Tom Whatley, and the column has been corrected.] Kyle Whitmire is the state political columnist for the Alabama Media Group. Want access to the best analysis and in-depth reporting about Alabama each week? Sign up for the weekly Reckon Report newsletter and follow Reckon on Facebook and Twitter. Follow Whitmire on Twitter and Facebook, too. And Instagram. Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey today said she supports doing away with state school board elections. Instead, she would appoint the people who lead Alabama public schools. We have been listed at the bottom of just about every education ranking you can find, Iveys statement said. We need education leaders and a structure that works in the best interest of our students." Ivey said she supports two bills, SB397 and SB398, filed today by Senate President Pro Tem Del Marsh, R-Anniston. The bill would replace the elected school board with an appointed state commission and replace the state superintendent position with a secretary of elementary and secondary education. The secretary would be appointed by the commission and confirmed by the Senate. With this bold change, we will establish accountability and stability at the top, improving educational outcomes for all students across the state, wrote Ivey in a letter delivered today to the state board. "Our students and teachers deserve much more from our educational system, and this constitutional amendment is a way forward for Alabamas future. But the fact is our current system of governance is broken and desperately needs fixing, Ivey declared in her letter to the board today. Over the past year I have met with every entity involved with public education in the state of Alabama, Marsh said in a news release. Our current system is broken. We need systemic changes to our education system and it starts at the top. State school board members had varying reactions to Iveys letter. I think theyre both so misguided, its ridiculous, board member Ella Bell, D-Montgomery, said of Ivey and Marsh. Bell, who was first elected in 2000, said she had not yet read the letter nor seen the bill, and wants to see if lawmakers approve the bill before deciding what she will do. This is my year to run [for election]," she said. When asked if she thought the state school board is at fault for problems in education in Alabama, Bell asked what Ivey has done to improve education in her home county (Wilcox) and what Marsh has done to improve education in Anniston. Both of those geographic areas have struggled with academic success for many years. Im a 40-year educator, board member Jeff Newman, R-Millport, said, and whatever is the best thing for the students of Alabama, thats what Im for." However, he said, I believe in protecting the vote. I always support the voice of the people, board member Stephanie Bell, R-Montgomery, said, and I think that is crucial in education because parents and those who are not necessarily in the classroom every day want to have a way to participate." Stephanie Bell is the longest-serving board member, first elected in 1994. She said the board has had a strong partnership with Ivey and has always invited lawmakers to their board meetings. Education has been the focus of the state board, she said, and they have been effective in improving education over the years. Board member Yvette Richardson, D-Birmingham, said Ivey told her about the proposal yesterday. "There were some challenges we have run into, she said, but she supports Ivey putting this to a vote of the people. Richardson said she heard the vote would likely be in March, during the Presidential primary. State superintendent Eric Mackey said he hadnt seen the bill, but that since he was appointed last year, he has spent his time improving opportunities for students in Alabama. Im committed to continue doing that next year and the year after and on and on and on. The Board of Directors of the Alabama Association of School Boards voted to support both bills, the organizations executive director Sally Smith told AL.com in a statement. Our support for this proposal is not a personal attack or driven by a particular issue, Smith said. It is based in a profound desire to increase the rigor and results for our students. Smith said there are good things happening across the state, but episodic success will not help Alabama compete with other states. School boards believe Alabama is ready for change." For the last two years, Ivey has attended many of the state school board meetings since becoming the school board president---by virtue of her position as governor. Ivey joined the board during the tumultuous year when Massachusetts native Michael Sentance was superintendent and took charge of the search for current state superintendent Eric Mackey. From the start, Ivey has cautioned board members about everything from choosing the right superintendent to completing the tasks state lawmakers have given them. Most recently, at the April board meeting, the board was unable to approve new members of the states charter school commission from nominations given to them by lawmakers due to the lack of enough yes votes to carry the motion. The Board today narrowly approved Lt. Gov. Will Ainsworths nominee, with four yes votes, and three abstentions. If the Amendment is approved, a new state school Commission would be appointed by the governor and confirmed by the state Senate. The change would need to be approved by the Legislature and approved by the people of Alabama through a constitutional amendment. Marsh said the Commission would have nine members and language in the bill requires the geographical, gender and racial diversity to reflect the public school system in Alabama. Members of the Commission would have staggered terms of six years and would be term limited after two terms. It would be required to have the geographical, gender and racial diversity reflective of the public- school system in Alabama. Currently, one of the reasons that education is consistently the most pressing issue for most Alabamians is because our state school board is completely dysfunctional," Marsh said. We have had five State Superintendents in three years. Our teachers and students are the ones who suffer from this the most. If the voters approve this plan, we will have more input from our local leaders, educators, and superintendents. Marsh, in the news release, said the highest-performing states have appointed boards, including neighboring states of Georgia, Mississippi, Tennessee and Florida. According to the National Association of State Boards of Education, Alabama is one of 7 states and the District of Columbia where voters elect all members of the state board of education. Five of those states---Alabama, Colorado, Kansas, Michigan, and Texas---elect state school board members by partisan ballot. Two states---Nebraska and Utah---and D.C. elect via nonpartisan ballot. In three more states---Louisiana, Nevada, and Ohio---some members are elected and some are appointed. In 33 states, the Governor appoints members and lawmakers approve the appointments. In a few states, there is a combination of elected and appointed state school board members. Sen. Marsh has also been clear about his concerns about the state school board, calling them dysfunctional when he filed a bill this year calling for the removal of the Common Core standards from the states math and English courses of study. The Common Core elimination bill will also give lawmakers final approval over K-12 courses of study. While the full Senate passed that bill, it has stalled in the House. The role of the state school board is to appoint the state superintendent and vote on recommendations from the superintendent, and they have additional powers as prescribed in Alabama law. Iveys letter was delivered to state school board members just prior to the start of their regular meeting today where the Alabama Teacher of the Year was being recognized after winning the title on Wednesday night. In an east Alabama jail cell, Latoni Daniel awaits the birth of her child and a trial that could end with a jury sentencing the 26-year-old to die. Neither Daniel, her family, nor her attorneys have any idea what will happen after she gives birth and finally stands trial on a capital murder charge. They are also struggling to find answers to the mysterious circumstances surrounding her pregnancy, her attorney said. Jailed without bail for about 17 months, Daniel is eight months pregnant. Daniel was arrested December 5, 2017 in the robbery and fatal shooting of 87-year-old Thomas Virgil Chandler. Daniel is charged along with her 28-year-old now-former boyfriend LaDaniel Tuck. While he, too, awaits trial, Tuck is in an Alabama prison serving a 20-year sentence for a parole violation in a 2010 robbery case. Court records say Daniel was the getaway driver not the shooter in the slaying of Chandler. If convicted of capital murder, she would face either the death penalty or life in prison without the possibility of parole. Its unclear when the case could go to trial. Daniel has requested a judge grant her bail which she possibly could not afford to stay with her family and receive private prenatal care. No ruling has been issued. Were hoping someone from some state or county agency will reach out to us or to our client, said Mickey McDermott, a civil attorney representing Daniel. We have no idea whats going to happen. And while Daniels future is shrouded in uncertainty, those representing her say they are struggling to unearth the circumstances of the conception of her soon-to-be-born child. McDermott said he believes Daniel was raped in the Coosa County jail, though he said she has no memory of a sexual encounter. After her pregnancy was revealed, Daniel was transferred to the nearby Talladega County jail. It is being investigated McDermott said Daniel has no memory of a sexual encounter in jail. He said it could have happened while she was taking sedatives to treat a seizure disorder. But no matter who is the father of the child, the attorney said, Daniel cannot consent to sexual contact while she is in custody. In Alabama, its illegal for any jail employee to have sexual contact with an inmate, and consent isnt a defense. Theres no law preventing inmates from having sex with one another, as long as its consensual. McDermott said Daniel hasnt been allowed to have visitors. McDermott said hes concerned no one is investigating the circumstances of the pregnancy. He said his letters to local and state law enforcement have gone unanswered. It is being investigated, said Jeff Willis, district attorney for Alabamas 40th Circuit, which includes Coosa and Clay counties. Citing the ongoing investigation, Willis declined to answer questions about the case when he spoke to AL.com at his office in Ashland, a small town in east Alabama. Youve got to remember, were investigating an 87-year-old killed in cold blood, Willis said, "and the other situation with the pregnancy. Its unclear whether any other local or state agencies are investigating. Coosa County Sheriff Michael Howell said he had no comment when approached by AL.com at the Triple R Cafe in Rockford. The cafe, Rockfords only restaurant, is a couple of blocks from the sheriffs office. I caught up with Sheriff Michael Howell as he was leaving Triple R Cafe, which appears to be the only lunch spot in Rockford (population under 500). The sheriff had no comment. For context, Howell wasnt sheriff when the rape allegedly occurred, but he now oversees the jail. pic.twitter.com/KksPt0ojAk Ashley Remkus (@aremkus1) May 2, 2019 Just down the street at the Coosa County Courthouse, Bridget Graham said the County Commission had no comment. Graham, the county administrator, said she hasnt seen a letter from Daniels attorney. McDermott provided a copy of the letter to AL.com. It was addressed to county and state officials, including the Coosa County Commission. A spokesman for Alabama Attorney General State Marshal declined to comment. We want to find a father for child support McDermott is skeptical about the D.A.s ongoing investigation. He said neither Daniel nor any of her attorneys have been questioned about the pregnancy, and the authorities havent requested any records from him. Here we are after the story has broke, McDermott said. If its an ongoing investigation, were glad. We want to find a father for child support. Medical staff from a private company are monitoring Daniel each day and providing prenatal care at the Talladega County jail, a spokesman said. Daniel will be taken to a hospital to give birth, said Chief Deputy Josh Tubbs of the Talladega County Sheriffs Office. Daniels baby is due this month. We monitor that closely, Tubbs said. Citing security concerns, Tubbs declined to say at which hospital Daniel will be taken to give birth. The nearest hospital with a labor and delivery ward is Coosa Valley Medical Center, according to records from the Alabama Department of Public Health. The hospital is in Sylacauga, about 20 miles from the jail. Coosa Valley Medical is also about 20 miles from the Coosa County jail, where Daniel was initially housed and where her attorney says she got pregnant. The Coosa County jail in the tiny town of Rockford is substantially smaller than the Talladega County jail where Daniel is presently housed. As of this week, fewer than 40 inmates were in Coosa County lockup, while nearly 200 people were jailed in Talladega. The overwhelmingly majority of the inmates in both jails are men. A system designed by men, for men While a Coosa County Circuit Judge is considering whether to set bail for Daniel, McDermott is concerned about the prenatal care his client is getting while shes jailed. I have great concerns that the lack of prenatal care may have endangered my client or her future child, McDermott said. She has been berated for requesting to go to doctors appointments. The attorney said Daniels attendance at doctor appointments which is to be facilitated by the county has been hit and miss. McDermott said family members have agreed to take care of Daniels baby while she is incarcerated. Although McDermott said hes notified the Department of Human Resources and sheriff in Coosa County, he said he hasnt heard back. They wont contact us, he said. They have alerted us of no plan and responded to us in no way shape, form or fashion. The Alabama Prison Birth Project, a nonprofit that provides support for pregnant women and mothers in the states prison system, has offered its services to Daniel. Executive Director Ashley Lovell said she tried to contact officials at the Talladega County jail to offer resources and support free of charge but hasnt received a response. Im very concerned about her, Lovell said. Im hoping our organization can find a way to help. The organization contracts with doulas or birthing assistants to help pregnant women at Tutwiler, Alabamas prison for women. The doulas provide education and support, bring healthy meals and go to the hospital when its time for the birth. After the baby is born and the mother returns to prison, Lovell said, the organization provides post-partum and breast-feeding support. The organization currently works only with the Alabama prison system not individual county jails, where the quality of health care can vary wildly depending on local resources, Lovell said. The goal is to expand into helping with pregnant women in county jails, she said. Its unclear whether the jails in all 67 Alabama counties have individual policies for how to treat pregnant inmates. Its unclear how many pregnant women are jailed around the state. This woman hasnt been convicted, Lovell said. If people look really deep inside themselves, we are talking about two human beings here. Our criminal justice system isnt set up for this, she added. We are putting women and their babies in a system designed by men, for men. More and more women are being incarcerated. An anti-abortion protester allegedly hit a Tuscaloosa abortion clinic escort with his car Wednesday morning, pointing to an uptick in aggression surrounding the efforts by Alabama and other states to ban abortion. They believe that we are murderers and believe we are facilitating murder and all these bills that are threatening to ban abortion, to prosecute abortion providers. They feel validated in their beliefs that its murder, Helmi Henkin, a clinic escort in Tuscaloosa, said. Henkin said this is the second time in three months the protester used his car to intimidate escorts. AL.com found two police reports to corroborate the incidents were reported, but Tuscaloosa police did not include the nature of the incidents in the reports. Henkin said she and the other escort who was hit by the car also filed a report with the National Abortion Federation. According to NAF which aims to provide safe, legal, and accessible abortion care and records incidents of violence and disruptions outside abortion clinics picketing incidents increased from 6,347 in 2010 to 78,114 in 2017 and the number of clinic blockade incidents increased from one in 2010 to 104 in 2017. Lt. Teena Richardson from Tuscaloosa Police Department said the incident is being investigated as a hit and run. The man accused of hitting the clinic escort denied hitting anyone and told AL.com the escort tried to get in his car. AL.com reviewed a video taken at the scene and the clinic escort did not try to get in the mans car. Protesters in Alabama often stand outside an abortion clinic and yell at patients, patient companions and clinic escorts in an attempt to lure them away from the clinics. In Tuscaloosa protesters aim their voices toward the patient recovery room at the back of the clinic. Henkin said that after Alabamians voted to add Amendment 2 to the constitution which declared Alabama a pro-life state protesters became more direct, addressing clinic escorts by name and putting their phone numbers and places of work on social media. Shortly after the bill passed, the clinic hired an off-duty police officer to deter direct harassment. Last week, an anti-abortion protester in Huntsville took to Facebook Live to show how a patient had grabbed her phone to avoid being filmed and hurt her hand in the process. [Protesting] really ramped up after the New York Bill passed because there were several people that commented and said thats what brought them out, Josie Poland, a clinic escort in Huntsville, said. New York passed a law in January allowing late-term abortions if the mothers health is in danger. Lt. Michael Johnson of the Huntsville Police Department said he has not seen an increase in the number of times police were called to the Alabama Womens Center in Huntsville, but that the police officers assigned to that zone are familiar with the protestors and the disturbances at the clinic. It becomes an issue when we have to run umpire all day long, Johnson said. Its an unnecessary drain on resources when the businesses, like any other business, draws continuously or draws more negative attention. Johnson said the clinic should hire a security guard or an off-duty police officer to help maintain the peace, but that officers will continue to check out all calls coming from the clinic to make sure everyone is safe. If [protesters are] going to fight a political battle like this, thats for the courtroom not the sidewalk, Johnson said. "This aint to be done on the sidewalk and antagonize people that might lose their cool. Put a legal team together and fight it the right way. Protesters in Huntsville, Tuscaloosa and Montgomery have used Facebook to post videos of patients entering and exiting the clinics. David Day, a preacher and anti-abortion protester, films many of his interactions with clinic escorts and patients in Montgomery. One of the reasons why I do it is I show the world what goes on outside South Perry Street on Friday mornings, Day said. Pictures and videos speak a thousand words. It brings to life the things we talk about. Day said he films his interactions for security reasons. He said he has been maced by a patient. But he also wants to deter people from going to the clinic altogether. Im not trying to flash their picture across internet, Day said. I dont want anyone to lose their job, but I dont want anyone to come to the abortion clinic. I hope when they see the camera its a deterrent. Day condemned the man who allegedly hit a clinic escort in Tuscaloosa and preaches against any sort of violence, but believes people who get abortions should be punished. Im not going to hurt anybody, but when somebody kills somebody, theres a punishment, Day said. If a woman murders her baby she should be criminalized because it is murder of a human being. U.S. Sen. Doug Jones had a long and complex relationship with ex-Jefferson County Commissioner Chris McNair, the father of one of the girls killed in a 1963 church bombing who later gained notoriety when he was convicted of bribery in connection to the county sewer controversy. McNair died Wednesday. He was 93. Jones, who as U.S. Attorney prosecuted the church bombers and later served as McNairs defense attorney against the bribery charges, discussed his long history with McNair today in a media call. Jones said he and his wife, Louise, visited McNair in Birmingham last week. I was very sad to hear of his passing yesterday, Jones said. I was fortunate enough, Louise and I were, to be able to visit with him just last week before we came back to Washington. Jones emphasized that McNair could have left Birmingham after the church bombing killed his daughter, Denise, but he chose to stay and fight for a better community. I hope that Chris will be remembered most for his resolve to stay in Birmingham, after the unimaginable loss of his daughter in the 1963 church bombing, in order to help the city of Birmingham and the state of Alabama move beyond the racial strife of the 1960s, Jones said. He was loved by so many and he will be greatly missed. His wife, Maxine, and his two daughters, Lisa and Kim, are in our thoughts and prayers. Jones discussed how they met when McNair was a pioneering black legislator and Jones was a student at the University of Alabama. I first met Chris when I was in college and he was a new member of the Alabama Legislature, one of the first black members of the Alabama Legislature, Jones said. The University of Alabama had an orientation for new legislators. He was one of those that came down. He was my legislator from Fairfield. I was living with my parents in Fairfield. He was the legislator from that area. So obviously I went to talk. We started developing that relationship then. Jones said that McNair rebuffed his idea to run for McNairs state legislative seat when McNair eyed a seat in Congress. When he decided to run I think it was for Congress in like 1978 and I was in law school I went to talk to him about running for the seat, Jones said. I was still living in Fairfield. He was very, very nice, very, very polite, but told me very straightforward, No, Doug, I think that this is a seat that should be occupied by an African-American. I said, Okay, I understand that. Both were active in Alabama politics and remained friends. Obviously, when I became the U.S. attorney, and the church bombing case was opened, that not only cemented it, it just made it a lot firmer and became very close to the families throughout that process, Jones said. Jones did not go into detail about being McNairs defense attorney and working sucessfully for McNairs early release from federal prison because of poor health in time for the 50th anniversary observance of the church bombing in 2013. Jones said they remained close, Obviously through the trials and tribulations that the McNair (family) had that followed that. Hes a family that had a lot of tragedy. Jones pointed to McNairs work for racial reconciliation as a more important memory that his crime and prison time. What I hope they will remember him for is not his transgressions, and not his failings, Jones said. What I hope theyll remember Chris for is someone who stayed in Birmingham, despite an unimaginable loss, in a most horrific of circumstances, at a time when he could have easily picked up and left Birmingham, Alabama. He and Maxine stayed behind to build a better community, to build a better state, to build a better Birmingham. Jones credited McNair and his wife with rehabilitating Birminghams national image. They built bridges between the races, Jones said. They went through so much to try to reach out and be part of the reconciliation and rebuilding of Birmingham, trying to rebrand Birminghams image that had been so, so tarnished. McNair worked on Birminghams campaign to become designated an All-American city. Remember Chris was one of those people that led the delegation in the early 1970s when Birmingham was declared an All-American City, Jones said. He was the face of that. It was very important for Birmingham just 10 years or so after that church bombing and the firehoses and the dogs, for Birmingham to be recognized as an All-American City. Without him leading that delegation Im not so sure it would have happened. McNair inspired other black leaders to run for office, Jones said. There were a lot of things that Chris did in a very positive way, including blazing the trail for young African-Americans to seek public service and to seek office, Jones said. He was one of those that did that consistently. I am hoping people will remember that. You will never be able to completely rewrite history, but I hope people will remember so many of the positives of Chris McNair and not just the negatives. Two Oneonta police officers are being honored for their roles in the dramatic rescue of two women from a burning home last year. Officers Matthew Suddeth and Cory Glasscock responded to the apartment fire on July 3, 2018. The pair arrived on the scene before Oneonta Fire and Rescue Service and saw that the apartment complex which housed elderly residents was ablaze. The flames were already shooting through the roof of one building. Without hesitation, police officials said, Suddeth and Glasscock ran toward the complex. Two elderly female residents were unaware of the heavy smoke and flames in their apartments, according a post on the police departments Facebook page. The officers broke out exterior windows and helped the occupants to safety. Body cam video showed the officers running toward the home, calling out for survivors and then pulling a frightened woman to safety. This video was taken from an Oneonta Patrol Officer's body cam during a significant structure fire in an apartment complex on Pocota Drive on July 3rd. I am very proud of these two fine young officers. They both acted quickly and decisively to prevent two citizens from certain injury or death. Officer Matthew Suddeth and Officer Cory Glasscock were recognized at the August 14th Oneonta City Council meeting for their heroic actions during this structure fire that occurred on July 3rd 2018. Watch the video and you will see the dedication of two very committed Oneonta Police Officers. From the Office of the Chief of Police Posted by Oneonta Police Department on Thursday, August 16, 2018 Suddeth pulled one of the women through a window because her doorway was on fire. Both officers provided notification on, and rescue from, what might have resulted in death or injury if not for their valiant efforts, officials said. Suddeth and Glasscock were recognized at the Aug. 14, 2018 Oneonta City Council meeting for their actions. They will be honored again on May 14 in Washington, D.C. Thank you for making the City of Oneonta a better and safer place to live, the Facebook post reads. Your remarkable actions will always be remembered. This article is part of the Black Magic Project. If youre a Facebook user, you can join our Black Magic Project group, where we talk about stories, topics and issues concerning black Alabamians. An educational remix of the hip-hop and country song Old Town Road is becoming a hit across the nation and it was produced inside a Birmingham City Schools classroom. Jasmine Merlette, a third-grade teacher at Sun Valley Elementary School, changed the lyrics of the song as the class was preparing for a state math test. In a video Merlette posted on social media, her students are excitedly bouncing to the beat with their class giraffe and screaming the uplifting lyrics Merlette created: School is my task. I can do this math. Really quick and fast. Education is my swag. Can't nobody stop me from learning. Can't stop me from learning. A day in the life of Ms. Merlette... #MyClassHasBarsss #TurntUpTuesday #ThisIsOURJam #WeKILTOurStateTest #ThirdGradeShawty #YoFavoriteTeacher ***DISCLAIMER: PARENTAL CONSENT WAS OBTAINED BEFORE RECORDING AND POSTING*** Posted by Jasmine Amani Merlette on Tuesday, April 30, 2019 Not only did the kids pass their exam - a victory Merlette celebrated with the hashtag #WeKILTourStateTest - but the kids spirits have been uplifted from all the community and celebrity support. The video has been shared over 683,000 times - that's according to a Facebook share from Billy Ray Cyrus himself. The kid's excitement in the video has also grabbed at the heartstrings of rapper Lil Nas X. im cheesing hard as hell watching this. this beautiful lol https://t.co/em0RUX5cqX nope (@LilNasX) May 2, 2019 This is what its all about!!! Posted by Billy Ray Cyrus on Saturday, May 4, 2019 Since the star-studded shout out on social media, Merlette and her class have received a lot of media attention from CNN and other local news outlets. Merlette said her students cried when they saw that Lil Nas retweeted their video because they look up to the rapper. "I think the attention just made them realize you can do anything," Merlette said. "Put your mind to it, put your heart in it, and you can do anything." The success of the song and the music video was the result of Merlette's attempt to settle a student's test anxiety - which is something some of her students experience often. Her students may be 8 or 9 years old, but they are aware of the importance of state tests. They have been completing practice tests and homework assignments since the beginning of the school year. According to the American Test Anxiety Association, about 18% of North American students experience moderate test anxiety, which can negatively impact a student's test performance. About 16-20% of students experience high test anxiety before an exam. Creating a music video is just an example of one of the techniques Merlette uses in her classroom to calm her students' nervousness. Before each weekly test, Merlette will tell the students to take deep breaths and say positive affirmations such as: I'm about to ace this test. I have worked hard. I can do this. I have no reason to fear or be worried. "We speak life," Merlette said. "Even the moments before the test, you can't rush. You have to ease into it." Creating a viral music video for her 23 students is a pretty big goal Merlette didn't mean to achieve during her first year of teaching. While her children have learned many lessons, Merlette has learned a big lesson: let the kids have a say in class. Merlette said her students like freestyle rapping. So she taught them about verbs and adjectives through rap battles in class. "They can have fun while learning because they deserve it," Merlette said. "All children should because they are still children." Merlette said students are hungry for innovation in their classrooms. As children who were raised with technology, she said they want to see more STEM-related lesson plans and activities that includes robots or other technological items. But most of all, the kids need the adults to believe in today's students. They need us to never give up on them. Ever, Merlette said. We need to make sure we are doing everything we can to make learning fun and exciting for them by incorporating things they love into the curriculum, into the content, into the lessons, and into everything that is involved in schools. A federal lawsuit against a deputy in the 2014 death of an inmate who died in the Jefferson County Jail after being Tased while in lockup can move forward following judicial ruling announced Thursday. The 11th Circuit Court of Appeals said Jefferson County Deputy Habimana Dukuzumuremi clearly violated 47-year-old Ricky DeAngelo Hinkles constitutional right to be free from excessive force. In particular, we hold that Dukuzumuremi crossed the constitutional line, and clear so, when having already tased Hinkle once dropping him to the floor, rendering him motionless and causing him to urinate on himself Dukuzumuremyi shocked him again a full eight seconds later, according to the new ruling. The three-judge panel, however, ruled that former Jefferson County Sheriff Mike Hale and former Capt. Ron Eddings, both of whom were also named as defendants in the suit and both of whom have since retired, could claim immunity in the case and therefore have been removed from the litigation. Efforts to reach the attorney for Dukuzumuremyi, Hale and Eddings werent immediately successful. Hinkle died Sept. 13, 2014 after a sheriffs deputy used a Taser on him when he became combative with officers, according to a statement from the sheriffs office that evening. The statement said Hinkle fell to the floor and was unresponsive after the deputy used the Taser on him. Efforts were unsuccessful by the jails on-duty medical personnel and paramedics to revive him. Hinkle was taken to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead. As is standard operating procedure, the county called in the State Bureau of Investigation to take over the probe. Hinkle had been jailed for parole violation on a previous assault charge. Authorities at the time said deputies decided to separate Hinkle from other inmates at about 11:30 a.m. that day when he threatened other inmates and created a disruption during the lunchtime meal service. "While in the process of moving, the inmate threatened to harm himself. At that point it was determined the inmate should be placed in a cell that allowed twenty-four-hour monitoring to prevent any possible suicide attempt," sheriff's officials said in 2014. "When they arrived at the cell the inmate became combative, refused to enter and began scuffling with one of the deputies. A second deputy deployed a Taser to bring the inmate under control. After engagement the inmate fell to the floor and became unresponsive." Birmingham attorney Anthony Piazza in 2016 filed the suit on behalf of Hinkles estate, claiming jail employees and medical staff at the jail were deliberately indifferent to the serious medical needs of Hinkle. The attorney says Hinkle was an inmate with known medical problems including a heart condition, depression and alcoholism. Piazza says Hinkle was arrested on Sept. 8, 2014 by U.S. Marshals when they "found him in a stupor next to an empty vodka bottle." He was taken to the county jail in Bessemer and then transferred to the Birmingham lockup the following day where Piazza says he was denied his prescribed medications "including his hypertension and anti-depression medication and was not treated for alcoholism." The attorney's announcement of the suit three years ago said Hinkle went into alcohol withdrawal five days later, when he began not making any sense in his conversations with inmates and jail staff, and began displaying paranoid-delusional symptoms. "While jailers were transferring him to a padded cell, he began making suicidal statements such as telling jailers he wanted to die, and became non-compliant to the verbal commands,'' according Piazza's 2016 statement. "Rather than notify jail medical staff on duty, jailers used their Taser on Hinkle, who fell to the floor upon being Tased. Hinkle lay unconscious on the floor and unresponsive to the jailers' demands to turn over, so they could place handcuffs on him. The jailers then used their Taser on Hinkle again who remained motionless and unresponsive." The lawsuit claims it was at that time the jailers called in medical staff, "but the medical staff could not use their portable defibrillator or AED because they didn't have pads for it,'' Piazza wrote. "Hinkle continued to lay motionless while CPR was performed on him. Approximately 20 minutes later, the medical staff contacted EMS to the scene." Piazza says EMS arrived 10 minutes later and worked on Hinkle for about 20 minutes but were unable to revive him." Hinkles son, Nyreekis Hunter, sued on his father behalf. Among the claims, the suit contends Dukuzumuremyi for excessive force and Deputy Christopher Cotton for failure to intervene, and both deputies for deliberate indifference to Hinkles serious medical needs. He also sued Hale and Eddings as the supervisors. The officers all moved to dismiss on qualified-immunity grounds - a federal law that shields government officials from being sued for discretionary actions performed within their official capacity, unless their actions violated "clearly established" federal law or constitutional rights. A District Court judge dismissed the deliberate-indifference claim against Dukuzumuremyi and Cotton, finding that the complaint contained no allegations to indicate that either deputy had subjective knowledge of the decedents medical condition. The court also dismissed the failure-to-intervene claim against Cotton. But the court denied the motion to dismiss as to the excessive force claim against Dukuzumuremyi and the supervisory liability claims against Hale and Eddings. All three appealed, which led to todays ruling. The suit seeks punitive damages, attorney fees, expenses and costs and seeks to have the medical services contract between the county jail and the jail health care provider declared null and void. Piazza noted that the Jefferson County Coroners Office ruled Hinkles death a homicide. A homicide by definition is a deliberate act by one person that results in the death of another. Authorities emphasized, however, that not all homicides are criminal. "People die in jail just like anywhere else,'' former Jefferson County sheriffs Chief Deputy Randy Christian told AL.com in 2016. This wasnt due to anything other than poor health and habits but, as you would expect, there is always an ambulance chaser with a dream of winning the lottery at taxpayers expense. God bless him. An elephant who has spent nearly a decade at the Birmingham Zoo is headed off to breed. Callee, an 18-year-old African elephant, is leaving the Trails of Africa exhibit after eight years to join a breeding herd at another zoo and start a family of his own. The move is expected sometime this summer, and zoo officials have not yet released where Callee is going or an exact date of the move. Dr. Stephanie Slade, Vice President of Living Collections at the Birmingham Zoo, said the move is similar to the natural process in the wild where elephants leave their bachelor herd for a breeding herd after spending several years learning from older males. Slade said Callee has learned from the zoos 38-year-old African elephant Bulwagi during his time in Birmingham and is ready for the transition. The move is a natural step in his maturation, as bulls typically move out of their matriarchal herds and into bachelor groups between the ages of 7-10, Slade said. In the wild, male African elephants spend time around larger, stronger, and more experienced bulls before venturing into breeding herds. Callee will be paired with multiple genetically valuable female elephants with an [Species Survival Plan] recommendation to aid in the expansion of the population, she said. Bulwagi will be the only elephant at the zoo until two young, male African elephants arrive sometime later this year. Slade said the extra time with Bulwagi will allow veterinarians and zoo staff to attempt another surgery to remove his broken tusk. The first surgery on Bulwagis broken, infected tusk happened in 2016- the removal wasnt successful, but doctors were able to better treat the infection. Zoo visitors can still see Callee in the Trails of Africa before he leaves. While Callee will of course be missed by all Birmingham Zoo staff, volunteers, and guests alike, we look forward to seeing him grow and have the chance to build a family of his own, Birmingham Zoo President and CEO Chris Pfefferkorn said. African elephants are an endangered species. The suspect in a Wednesday-morning bank holdup in east Alabama was later found dead in his Georgia home. Oxford police just after 9 a.m. received a robbery alarm from Regions Bank on Quintard Drive. Chief Bill Partridge said officers obtained a description of the suspect and investigators assigned to the East Metro Area Crime Center immediately started working with Oxford police on the case. Investigators were able to identify the suspect within 29 minutes of the robbery and obtained information on both the white male suspect and the vehicle he used in the crime. They obtained an arrest warrant and a search warrant and contacted police in Newnan, Georgia. Partridge said Newnan officers and SWAT members found the suspect at his apartment complex. The suspect stepped outside, saw officers and retreated back into his apartment. Moments later, officers heard a single gunshot from the apartment. They entered the apartment and found the suspect dead from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Police are withholding his name pending notification of his family. Jessie Mack made history in 1974 when he joined the Homewood Police Department, becoming the first African-American officer to work in the predominately-white over-the-mountain area. It wasnt something he bragged about, or even mentioned, but I think he was quietly proud of that, said Homewood Police Chief Tim Ross. That contributed to his legendary status in our department, if not in the police community as a whole. The 75-year-old Mack died this week after a battle with cancer. His death has hit the law enforcement community hard, leaving all who knew and loved him grief stricken. Im heartbroken, said Homewood police Officer Kevin Batchelor. He was one of the best officers and finest persons Ive been blessed to have met. Mack, who lived in Leeds, joined the Homewood force on Dec. 1, 1974. He retired Oct. 31, 2006. In 2011, he returned to Homewood to serve as a Municipal Court bailiff and remained in that position until this week. Ross worked with Mack for 18 years, and said Mack was a veteran patrol officer when Ross got hired. He was always somebody you revered, the chief said. It was just the way he carried himself and the respect and influence he had over all the young officers. I learned very quickly that he was well-known through the Birmingham area, Ross said. Whenever somebody found out where I worked, they would inevitably ask me if I knew Jessie Mack because he was so well-liked and so well-thought-of. Mack was known for many things, but none more than the impact he made on each new officer when they joined the force. He was already one of the old guys at Homewood PD when I started in 93 and he always acted gruff toward the rookies, Batchelor said, but he was like a papa lion watching over his man cubs, teaching them how to hunt and survive and be men. I quickly learned to watch and listen to what he said and did, and it molded me as an officer, Batchelor said. I never told him, but he was one of my greatest mentors on the job. More than once he saved my rear while rolling around in a knock-down, drag-out fight, Batchelor said. Jessie was the cavalry. Whenever I saw him show up to a situation, I knew everything was going to be alright. Ross said Mack had a reputation for being tough on crime. He really enjoyed catching the bad guy and seeing justice served, he said, but he also was extremely fair, kind and generous to people who needed service. Mack was very involved with The Exceptional Foundation in Homewood, where he took his daughter every day. It was while he was there this week that his condition worsened, and he was taken to the hospital. His body just finally gave up, Ross said. One of our officers was there with him at the hospital and got to talk to him before he died. He was very alert and in good spirits. He didnt suffer. Funeral arrangements have not yet been made, but Ross said with the familys permission, Homewood police plan to play a major role in the services. We intend to bury him with police honors, Ross said. Retired Homewood police Lt. Dan Smith said Mack was one of the finest police officers he had ever know. We all loved him like a brother and he loved us, Smith said. Whenever I went any place with him, I knew two things - we were going to get there in land-speed-record time, and I would be safe. Regardless of where we went or what we were doing, I was never worried about anything happening that he couldnt handle. Because Jessie Mack knew how to take care of business. Ill never forget his smile. Ill never forget his sideways glance when you were telling him something he didnt quite believe. Still smiling. I feel like hes still smiling now, Smith posted on Facebook. Farewell Jessie. It was the honor of a lifetime being your friend. Authorities are searching for a 34-year-old state prison inmate who walked away from a job site in Shelby County. Jerry Randolph Anthony, serving a 50-year sentence on an assault conviction, was last seen at 12:45 p.m. at the undisclosed site in Columbiana. He was sentenced in 2008 in Montgomery County. Anthony, an inmate at the Childersburg Work Release Center, was last seen in his prison whites. He is described as a black male, 5-feet, 11-inches tall and weighing about 150 pounds. Anyone with information on his whereabouts is asked to call 911 or the Alabama Department of Corrections at 1-800-831-8825. Authorities have now released the names of two teens killed when their SUV plunged over a Birmingham bluff. The Jefferson County Coroners Office identified the victims as Yefry Said Hernandez-Paz, 17, and Griselda Noemi Zayas-Flores, 15. Both were students in the Birmingham area. Hernandez attended Parker High School where he was a freshman. "Our hearts go out to the families involved in this tragic situation,'' said Birmingham City Schools spokesman Craig Williams. Counselors are on-site at Parker to assist students and staff members who are affected by this loss. Griselda was a freshman at Holy Family High School. "Were devastated,'' said Father Jon Chalmers, the schools president. Were a small, tight-knit community and her death is devastating. Holy Family staff is also working with their grieving student body. "Its so very tragic,'' Chalmers said. The teens were in a 1999 Toyota 4Runner that was silver or gray. Investigators used the vehicle registration to track down the owner of the vehicle, and authorities said Birmingham police school resource officers were crucial in helping to find the victims family members. First responders from Birmingham and Hoover were dispatched about 12:30 p.m. Tuesday to the 800 block of Shades Crest Road, directly across the street from Mr. Ps Butcher Shop and Deli. Witnesses told authorities that the 4Runner was traveling on Valley Street when it passed another vehicle that was stopped at a red light, continued straight and went over the bluff. Authorities say the vehicle careened over the bluff and about 150 yards down the cliff. Firefighters made their way to the victims, both of whom had been ejected, and both were pronounced dead on the scene. Investigators said there was no indication the crash was anything but accidental. This story will be updated as more information becomes available. When someone donated a car to a local nonprofit, staff immediately knew who deserved it: A young, deaf woman who works for a Trussville bakery. Nadi Funes, 26 and born deaf, left Honduras for America in 2007 for a better life. She went to a school for the hearing impaired and, when it was time to find a job, Funes sought help from Workshops, Inc.-- a Birmingham nonprofit whose mission is to help disabled and disadvantaged people find work. Nathalie Brasher, Assistant Director of Programs for Employment at Workshops, said Funes immediately showed a phenomenal work ethic and wanted to do anything possible to better her life. She was determined to succeed. Our job is to put people to work, Brasher said. Funes said, I dealt with a lot of frustrations not having a job or transportation. When I got here, it was really difficult for me. Not being a citizen, I experienced a lot of frustration. So I was trying to get a job and I found there was someone that was looking for employees... Workshops really helped me find a job last year. Funes attended classes and seminars, and learned everything she could to ultimately gain her legal work status. She did it all without being able to hear; but that wasnt her only problem. One of the biggest issues she faced, Funes said, was transportation. I applied for several jobs and I was not hired. That was a really hard time, it was really hard to find a job," she said. In October, Funes got a job at Great Harvest Bread Company in Trussville with help from Workshops and started work as a bread preparer. Brasher said the bakerys owner, David Snyder, took a chance on Funes. And according to both Snyder and Funes, their match is a perfect fit. [Some places] wouldnt hire me because I was deaf, but my current job took a chance on me and were willing to hire me. God has really blessed me, Funes said. I can do anything that any hearing person can do. Of course theres a communication boundary, but we work through it." Snyder said he never had reservations about hiring Funes because of her hearing impairment. He was thrilled to have her join their team because, Snyder said, shes smart and willing to do whatever is needed. Synder called Funes a diligent, hard worker who is always smiling and said Funes is punctual each day, despite her transportation obstacles. He said he had no idea how difficult it was for Funes to get to and from work each day, because she never complained. Funes job is to knead and prepare dough for baking each morning. Our bread was kicked up to another level with her artistry and skill set, Snyder said. The loaves were plain before, but they are art now. They did a wonderful job [placing me at Great Harvest]," Funes said. "Its going well and I am doing a good job... I was able to get better at [preparing dough] and do it even quicker. While thrilled about her job, Funes was still lacking a way to get to work and back home. Living in the Pinson area without access to a bus or public transportation to Trussville, Funes had to catch rides with anyone she could to get to work in the early-morning hours to get the bread prepared for baking. Sometimes, she would wait for hours after her shift ended just to find a way home. I dealt with a lot of frustration not having a car to get me to work and having to rely on other people, she said. When a patron donated the car to Workshops, Brasher said she and other staff members knew Funes was the perfect candidate. She called Funes and told her about the gift before taking it to Great Harvest. Funes was shocked. It felt so great, I didnt feel like it was real. I couldnt believe it." She said, I thought maybe it would just be to borrow for a while-- but no, the car was given to me to keep and that felt great. I am so thankful, and I am super happy to have a new car. I felt really good-- no, it felt great to see that nice, new car waiting for me and being gifted to me. It really touched me," Funes added. Snyder said he believes the donation was a life-changing moment for Funes. Were really proud to have her on our staff, he said. Now that shes got transportation, Funes said she likes to go shopping and venture downtown. I go everywhere. I really enjoy it, she said. While she loves her car, the independence that comes with a vehicle is the best gift of all. I really really really hope that people are inspired by my story," Funes added with a smile. A 31-year-old west Alabama man has been convicted in the killing of another man over a tattoo five years ago. A Bibb County jury found Charles Ryan Carroll guilty of manslaughter. Fonzo Caddell, 34, died in February 2014. The shooting happened about 7 p.m. on Feb. 1 of that year when, authorities say, Caddell when to Carrolls home to get a tattoo done. Carroll, said Bibb County District Attorney Michael Jackson, refused to ink Caddell because he had been drinking. The two got into a verbal altercation and Carroll told his client to leave. Fonzo Caddell Jr. As Caddell was getting into his vehicle, Carroll approached Caddell, pulled out a .22-caliber pistol and shot Caddell in the chest. Caddell was pronounced dead on the scene. Jackson said the jury deliberated about three hours before finding Carroll guilty. He will be sentenced by Circuit Court Judge Marvin Wiggins at a later time. This killing by this gunslinger never should have happened, the district attorney said. We are going to ask for the maximum sentence. In the past eight years, 13 Alabama hospitals -- seven of which have been in rural areas -- have been forced to shutter their doors. Not only did these hospitals provide lifesaving care in their communities, they also employed hundreds of Alabamians. Many of the rural hospitals that are still hanging on have had to cut essential services, such as labor and delivery. In 1980, hospitals in 45 of Alabamas 54 rural counties provided obstetrical services. Today, just 16 of them offer these services and we are seeing the effects reflected in dismal maternal health outcomes across the state. We are in a crisis. Last year, we sat down with Centers for Medicaid and Medicare Services (CMS) Administrator Seema Verma and Senator Shelby about the ever-growing challenges our medical providers, especially Alabamas rural hospitals, are facing. One of the greatest challenges our hospitals face are the inexplicably low Medicare reimbursement rates resulting from the flawed area wage index formula, which calculates how much Medicare reimburses hospitals for the services they provide. As this crisis has continued to worsen, the entire Alabama congressional delegation sent Administrator Verma a bipartisan letter urging the agency to provide relief for Alabama hospitals. Administrator Verma announced recently that she heard us loud and clear CMS is now planning to address disparities in the area wage index formula and increase Medicare reimbursements for Alabamas hospitals. CMS proposed change will help struggling hospitals in low-income states like Alabama provide critical care and keep their doors open. While this proposed change is a big win that we have been working toward for many years, there is still work to be done to support our hospitals and health care providers so they can meet health care needs in all of our communities. However, this wage index update is just a first step. Importantly, Governor Ivey and the state legislature should expand Medicaid. This would be the best way to help shore up Alabamas rural hospitals and improve health care affordability, access and quality across the state and provide a boon to our economy, as well. Medicaid expansion has proven to be a life-or-death issue for health care providers and patients in many states: almost 90 percent of rural hospital closures have occurred in states that did not expand Medicaid. With 88 percent of Alabama hospitals operating in the red, we simply cannot afford the status quo. Whats more, while other states like California and New York benefit from coverage expansions, funded in part by Alabama taxpayers who are not receiving the same benefits, some 320,000 Alabamians remain uninsured because of the states refusal to expand Medicaid. We know that access to good primary care results in people living longer and healthier lives, but too many working Alabamians fall into the Medicaid gap and cant afford even basic primary care. This means that hundreds of thousands of Alabamians are foregoing medical care. And when people forego primary and preventative care, our emergency rooms fill up and we all pay the price. Furthermore, its not just those on Medicaid who suffer when rural hospitals close it causes everyone in the community to lose access to the health care they rely on. Alabama has one of the most bare-bones Medicaid programs in the country. Adults who dont have children dont qualify. And parents who have children only qualify if they make 18 percent or less of the federal poverty line, which amounts to less than $3,000 a year for a family of two. Our state leaders proudly claim to value work, but our Medicaid program is notorious for leaving the working poor behind, with no assistance to afford health insurance. Medicaid expansion would allow Alabamians making up to $23,336 a year for a household of two, or 138 percent of the poverty level, to receive health care they can afford. Moreover, if Alabama expands Medicaid, it could generate $2.7 billion in annual economic activity in addition to helping shore up our rural hospitals and local economies. If our state had chosen to expand, we could have seen approximately 12,000 new jobs across all sectors of Alabamas economy in 2016 alone. Rural hospitals are often the largest employer in the region, and they serve as economic drivers for their communities. In addition to being essential to providing care Alabamians need and keeping our rural hospitals open, state leaders should see Medicaid expansion for the economic boon that it is. For all these reasons, we introduced legislation to incentivize Alabama to expand Medicaid by guaranteeing a 100 percent federal match for the first three years. Regardless of our states past resistance, we believe the federal government should give Alabama another chance to do right by our citizens and expand Medicaid. We are doing our part to shore up our rural hospitals and increase access to health care for working Alabamians, and Administrator Verma is finally acting on the wage index. We hope Governor Ivey and the state legislature follow suit by doing the right thing and expanding Medicaid. Alabamians and our hospitals are depending on it. Doug Jones and Terri Sewell are Democratic members of Congress from Alabama. Women living in Pakistani camps worry about cycle of violence and their children possibly being recruited as soldiers. Islamabad, Pakistan Female refugees in Pakistan have told Al Jazeera that they are reluctant to return to Afghanistan because they fear violence and the forced recruitment of their children as child soldiers. They also cited the lack of access to education and poor healthcare facilities as further reasons why they do not want to go back, as the UN refugee agencys voluntary repatriation programme targets some of Pakistans 1.4 million registered Afghan refugees. Khor Bibi, a 50-year-old widow from Kabul, told Al Jazeera that she worries for her familys safety. My husband died in a blast in Kabul in 2015 which terrified me and made me to think about the security of my children. After my husbands death, [we] migrated to Pakistan for survival, she said, adding that her husband was the familys breadwinner and his death had perished my life completely. I dont have the courage to lose my children in the never-ending conflict, said Bibi. Although living here in a refugee camp is cumbersome, at least we are living with satisfaction that our lives are safe here. We feel secure here and do not want to go back. In 2017, according to Human Rights Watch, at least 2,000 civilians were killed in attacks across Afghanistan. In 2018,according to UN figures, there were 3,804 deaths a record and 7,189 injuries. Over the past 10 years, more than 32,000 civilians have been killed and 60,000 have been wounded in Afghanistan. In the first quarter of 2019, UNAMA has documented581 civilian deaths, including 150 children killed. Khor Bibis husband was killed in a blast and said she would fear for her familys safety if they were to be repatriated [Mahwish Qayyum/Al Jazeera] Asghari, a refugee from the eastern Afghan province Laghman, said: We dont want to go back to war-stricken Afghanistan because of the fear of recruitment of children as child soldiers by armed groups. She claimed that fighters and security forces pressure families to recruit their children for military operations. If they deny, she alleged that Taliban fighters have reportedly threatened to either kill male members of the family or destroy the family home. Children are also being kidnapped by anti-state elements to become suicide bombers, plant improvised explosive devices (IEDs) or carry out other terrorist activities. I dont want my children to be recruited as child soldiers, thats why I dont want to return. We also do not have a house or property in Afghanistan, so why should we go? A UN report from May last year verified 84 cases of the recruitment and use of boys in Afghan conflicts in 2017. They were used as suicide bombers, for combat, as bodyguards at checkpoints, to assist in intelligence gathering and plant IEDs. The UNHCRs Voluntary Repatriation Programme for registered Afghan refugees began on March 1; so far 1,200 refugees have been returned. When they do reach home, the agency gives them each $200. Between 2002-2019, a total of 4.4 million refugees have been repatriated. Gul Dana, a refugee from Kunduz, said a 13-year-old boy in her extended family was killed in a blast near a school several years ago. I want to educate my children, she told Al Jazeera, and get rid of the vicious cycle of poverty but its not possible in Afghanistan. Schools regularly come under attack in Afghanistan. Because of the ongoing conflict and damaged infrastructure of schools in Afghanistan, most children are out of school and poverty pushes them into child labour, said Dana. A UNICEF reportpublished in June 2018 reveals nearly half of the children aged between seven and 17 years old 3.7 million in Afghanistan are being deprived of school. Sixty percent of them are girls. An Afghan refugee girl waits with others to have a medical check-up at a health clinic setup by the UNHCR to mark World Refugee Day in Islamabad June 20, 2014 [File: Faisal Mahmood/Reuters] Besides education, Dana fears having little or no access to healthcare. The World Health Organization in 2017 said 24 health facilities were attacked and damaged, while 164 were forced to close temporarily because of insecurity and conflict. Many of the women Al Jazeera spoke to also worried about the Talibans record on denying womens rights, as peace talks include negotiations with the armed group. Dana said that if a woman goes to the market without a male guardian in Afghanistan and is caught by the Taliban, she faces lashes. There have been recent reports of the Taliban flogging women in Afghanistan, which have added to concerns. Ijaz Khan, a professor of international relations department at the University of Peshawar, said in Taliban-controlled areas, womens rights continue to be violated. He explained that compared with men, women do not have the same access to education and cannot leave the house without a male relative. He fears that if the Taliban shares power under a peace deal, it would reverse whatever progress that has been made. Nearly three years after the peace deal, threats and attacks against women continue to plague the South American nation. Santander de Quilochao, Colombia Clemencia Carabali did not know the number that appeared on her phone when it rang last June. She didnt recognise the mans voice on the other end of the call. If you dont leave the territory by 5pm today, youre a dead woman, Carabali recalled the man saying. Carabali reported the call to Colombian police, but also didnt leave. The incident is still under investigation, but Carabali said knowing that her community is watching out for her that makes her feel more comfortable. Carabali suspects the threat came as a result of her work as a womens rights defender in the Colombian state of Cauca. She works mainly with Afro-Colombian women, teaching them about their rights as women, Afro-descendants and victims of war and how to demand them. The goal is to empower women so they can build a strong community and be able to defend themselves, especially after being constant victims of violence and displacement during the countrys more than 50 years of conflict. Women here were disappeared and assassinated. [Armed men] would arrive at peoples homes and force the husband outside, so they could rape his wife often two or three men at a time. And many stayed pregnant without wanting it, Carabali said. Those were really hard times. We thought the world was going to end, she added The north of Cauca has been relatively calm since the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) and the Colombian government began peace negotiations in 2012, and signed a final peace agreement in August 2016. But after receiving multiple threats last year, Carabali worries that the violence, particularly attacks and violence against women, may return. Clemencia Carabali poses for a photograph as she takes a break between meetings, discussing women and Afro-Colombian rights, in the town of Santander de Quilochao, Colombia [Kimberley Brown/Al Jazeera] More than 340 human rights defenders in Colombia were killed from the beginning of 2016 to mid-August 2018 mostly by paramilitaries trying to squash community activism. Rights defenders who are women also face gender-specific threats and violence, including rape and threats against their children, according to the United Nations. This comes as women continue to try to cope with the scars of the conflict. 190302183740983 A report by the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights, found that armed groups regularly targeted women in Colombia as a war strategy. Different forms of sexual, psychological and physical violence were used to dehumanise women and spread terror among the community, as a way to control the local population with Afro-Colombian and indigenous women being particularly vulnerable. Women have been the primarily affected, or principle victims of war, Edna Mosquera, a representative with UN Women in Cauca, told Al Jazeera. Not only have their bodies been targeted and used as trophies, Mosquera said, but women also bear a heavy emotional and psychological burden since their role in society as the primary caretaker continues during times of conflict. This means women are often the ones in charge of keeping the family together, figuring out how to survive after being displaced, leading searches for disappeared relatives, all at the expense of their own mental health. A study by the Ruta Pacifica de las Mujeres, a Colombia-based womens rights organisation, found that generally women are encouraged by society to ignore their own affectations in order to care for others. This often leads to a higher risk of sickness, permanent stress, depression, suicide, poverty, and hopelessness, among other side effects. 190425120740156 These distinct war wounds were why womens rights organisations pushed to include a sub-commission on gender in the peace agreements, the first deal of its kind to do so. The sub-commission ensures that a gender focus is applied to all points in the peace agreements, to respond to the specific needs of women and LGBTI victims. This includes a gender focus on rural development plans and victims rights and reparations the first and fourth points in the peace agreement. The gender sub-commission encourages women like Carabali, supporting their efforts in empowering women locally and engaging them in the peace process. Because of the role we have, in the family, the community and society in general women have always been and must continue to be peace builders, Carabali said. Mosquera added this focus on gender is extremely important, as it helps sensitise people about gender violence in the country, both during the war and in society at large, which is a much a broader issue. Violence against women a societal norm But women also face violence and threats outside of the context of war. More than 20,000 women were sexually assaulted in the country in 2017 alone, according to Medicina Legal, Colombias national forensics institute. The vast majority of offenders were stepfathers, fathers, neighbours or uncles of the victims. More than 74 percent of survivors were girls under the age of 14. That same year, 144 women were killed by their partner or former partner, a crime also considered femicide. This is a societal illness, said Carlos Eduardo Valdes Moreno, director-general of Medicina Legal, adding that violence against women is something learned and reproduced in the home, starting from childhood. Two women who were forced to flee violence in their home in Buenaventura during the war, now sell street food in Santander de Quilochao, Colombia [Kimberley Brown/Al Jazeera] In the north of Cauca, Carabali said women often dont report these crimes to the police because its unlikely the offender will be detained or charged, leaving victims more vulnerable. According to the Attorney Generals Office, five percent of the 26,270 reported cases of sexual violence in 2017 led to a criminal conviction. This is a structural issue, said Mosquera, We are not in a configuration of peace, and much less in terms of the private lives of women, because that requires a structural change that is not being made. Clearly, the oppressor is stronger Womens rights groups are not optimistic that the government of Ivan Duque, who took office in August, will bring peace for women. During his campaign, the far-right candidate avoided debates about womens rights, and suggested that putting young girls to work early to teach them responsibility is one way to avoid teen pregnancies. Duque, a vocal critic of the peace deal, has also promised to change parts of the 2016 accord. 190325142846655 In November, Duque signed a Plan of Timely Action (PTA), which promises more support and protection for human rights defenders to stop the mass assassinations. But critics say the PTA strongly resembles a plan created by former President Juan Manuel Santos last July, which achieved little results. As of April 2, the Washington Office of Latin America said there have already been 44 reported cases of murdered human rights workers this year. Additionally, a 2018 report by the Kroc Institute for International Peace Studies at the University of Notre Dame in the United States, found that the sections of the peace deal focused on gender have been the least implemented. Women also play a small role in the decision-making process. Despite the challenges, rights defenders like Carabali vow to continue their work and fight for womens rights. Were trying to plant a small seed so that something changes, she said. Its not easy because, clearly, the oppressor is stronger, but you have to keep going. Police said they have arrested four people in connection with last months murder of journalist Lyra McKee. Police in Northern Ireland on Thursday arrested four people in connection with last months murder of journalist Lyra McKee. The four, aged 15, 18, 38 and 51, were arrested in Londonderry under terrorism legislation and have been taken to Belfast for questioning by detectives. McKee was shot while reporting on violent disturbances in Londonderry, also known as Derry, last month. The New IRA, an armed republican group, claimed responsibility for her death but also accused police of provoking the riot which preceded it. As part of this mornings operation detectives carried out searches at four houses in the city and arrested four people in connection with the violence which was orchestrated on the streets of Creggan [housing estate] on the evening of Lyra McKees murder, Detective Superintendent Jason Murphy told reporters. They are currently in custody where they are being questioned. The officer thanked the public for their support in hunting the journalists killers, including more than 140 people who have provided images, footage and other details. The killing, which followed a large car bomb in Londonderry in January that police also blamed on the New IRA, has raised fears that small marginalised groups are exploiting a political vacuum in the province and tensions caused by Britains decision to leave the European Union. BBC radio host fired for using a chimpanzee photo in a tweet about the newborn son of duke and duchess of Sussex. A BBC journalist has been fired for using a picture of a chimpanzee in a tweet about the royal baby born to Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, and her husband Prince Harry. Danny Baker, a broadcaster on BBC Radio 5 Live, was sacked on Thursday after posting an image on Twitter of a couple holding hands with a chimpanzee dressed in clothes and the caption: Royal baby leaves hospital. The tweet came on Wednesday, the same day Harry and Meghan posed for photos with their first child, Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor. This was a serious error of judgment and goes against the values we as a station aim to embody. Dannys a brilliant broadcaster but will no longer be presenting a weekly show with us, a spokesperson from the BBC said. Baker, 61, later deleted the post and apologised for any offence caused, but was still fired on Thursday morning. Sincere apologies for the stupid unthinking gag pic earlier. Was supposed to be a joke about royals vs circus animals in posh clothes but interpreted as about monkeys and race, so rightly deleted, Baker said in a statement on Twitter. Enormous mistake, for sure. Grotesque. Anyway, heres to ya Archie, Sorry mate, he said. Once again. Sincere apologies for the stupid unthinking gag pic earlier. Was supposed to be joke about Royals vs circus animals in posh clothes but interpreted as about monkeys & race, so rightly deleted. Royal watching not my forte. Also, guessing it was my turn in the barrel. pic.twitter.com/86cQGbAhDc Danny Baker (@prodnose) May 8, 2019 Since then, he lashed out at the media corporation, arguing he did not realise the connotations of the image he posted. Baker accused the BBC of throwing him under the bus after accusing him of intentionally being racist, explaining in an interview with LBC Radio that it was put up there as a joke about class. It was supposed to be preposterous about toffs leaving. The idea that there was any racial basis for it, it came out of my own ignorance. I curdled that I thought anyone could have thought that was the intent behind that photo, he added. https://twitter.com/shaunking/status/1126466791897796609?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw Many public figures, however, supported the BBCs decision, calling Bakers photo unacceptable and offensive as Meghans mother, Doria Ragland, is African American. Baby Archie was introduced to his great-grandparents, Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, on Wednesday. Harry and Meghan posted an Instagram picture of the meeting, which also included Meghans mother, who is staying with the royal couple. A former government intelligence analyst has been charged with leaking classified documents about military campaigns against al-Qaeda to a reporter. Daniel Everette Hale, 31, of Nashville, Tennessee, was arrested Thursday morning and will make an initial appearance at the federal court there, authorities said. An indictment in Alexandria, Virginia, charges him with five counts including obtaining and disclosing national defence information and theft of government property. Each of the counts carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison, the Justice Department said. According to the indictment, Gale worked as an intelligence analyst for the Air Force and later as a contractor assigned to the governments National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA). The indictment says Hale began communications with a reporter in 2013 while at the Air Force and continued communications after going to NGA. According to the indictment, Hale provided 11 Top Secret or Secret documents to the reporter and his online news outlet. Those documents were later published either in whole or in part. They include a secret memo outlining a military campaign against al-Qaeda overseas, a top-secret intelligence report on an al-Qaeda operative, and a secret PowerPoint slide outlining the effects of the military campaign targeting Al-Qaeda overseas, according to the indictment. 190422212653050 Court papers do not identify by name the reporter who allegedly received the leaks, but details in the indictment make clear that Jeremy Scahill, a founding editor of The Intercept, is the reporter who received the leaks, the Associated Press reported. NBC News also reported, citing federal officials, that the reporter was Scahill and the news outlet was The Intercept. Published in 2015 article The indictment states that many of the classified documents were disclosed in an October 2015 news article. On October 15, 2015, Scahill published an article on The Intercept titled The Assassination Complex that relies on a cache of secret slides that provides a window into the inner workings of the US militarys kill/capture operations at a key time in the evolution of the drone wars. The story says the documents were provided by a source within the intelligence community who worked on the types of operations and programmes described in the slides. The Intercept granted the sources request for anonymity because the materials are classified and because the US government has engaged in aggressive prosecution of whistleblowers. 180823153915686 Scahills book, Dirty Wars, was published in 2013, and the indictment indicates Hale and Scahill met while Scahill was promoting the book at a Washington, DC, bookstore. The book reported on the use of drones to attack and kill targets, among other things. The indictment states that Hale listed his work with drones on kill and capture operations on his resume and quotes Hale in a text message to a friend stating that Scahill wants me to tell my story about working with drones. According to the indictment, Hale and the reporter used an encrypted messaging service called Jabber to communicate throughout 2013 and 2014. Scahill did not immediately return an email seeking comment Thursday. Last year, Reality Winner, a US government contractor was sentenced to more than five years in prison after pleading guilty to mailing classified reports to The Intercept. World must change in transformative ways to prevent climate change prompting total disaster, Antonio Guterres says. The United Nations secretary-general said the world must dramatically change the way it fuels factories, vehicles and homes to limit future warming to a level scientists call nearly impossible. The alternative would mean a catastrophic situation for the whole world, Antonio Guterres told The Associated Press news agency in an exclusive interview. Guterres said he was about to tour Pacific islands to see how climate change was devastating them as part of his renewed push to fight it. He was summoning world leaders to the UN in September to tell them they need to do much more in order for us to be able to reverse the present trends and to defeat the climate change. That means, he said, the world had to change, not in small incremental ways but in big transformative ways, into a green economy with electric vehicles and clean cities. Guterres said he would ask leaders to stop subsidising fossil fuels. Burning coal, oil and gas triggers warming by releasing heat-trapping gases. He said he wanted the countries to put a price on the use of carbon and to stop building new coal power plants after 2020. Ultimately, the UN chief said, he wanted to make sure that by 2050, the world was no longer putting more greenhouse gases into the air than nature sucks out. Global temperatures have already risen about 1C since the industrial age began. The issue is how much more the thermometers will rise. In 2015, the worlds nations set a goal to limit global warming to no more than 0.5C from now. Most scientists say it is highly unlikely, if not outright undoable, to keep man-made climate change that low, especially since emissions of heat-trapping gases are rising, renewable energy growth is plateauing, and some countries leaders and voters are baulking. A panel of scientists the UN asked to look at the issue ran computer models for more than 500 future scenarios, and less than two percent achieved those warming limits. Guterres said the wholesale economic changes needed to keep the temperature from rising another degree or more may be painful, but there will be more pain if the world fails. If you dont hang on to that goal, what youll achieve is a total disaster, the secretary-general said. Paris deal If countries only do what they promised in the 2015 Paris climate agreement, it would be catastrophic because the world would warm by another 2.5C, Guterres said. He also said that is why we need to dramatically accelerate what everybody knows needs to be done. Yet, globally the trends are going the other way. University of Michigan environment dean Jonathan Overpeck said it looked unlikely that the world could prevent another 1C of warming, let alone 0.5C. And in an odd way, that gives the UN chief optimism. Because as disasters mount and deaths increase, the public, especially youths, will realise that warming is a dramatic threat to the whole of humanity, Guterres said. So the worse it gets, the more people will demand change, he said. That is why he is about to visit the islands of Fiji, Tuvalu and Vanuatu in the Pacific Ocean, which he says is hit hardest by climate change. Guterres said he wanted to use the determination and moral authority of the people who live on the threatened islands to convince world leaders to make the necessary changes. The CIA and foreign security services have warned friends and colleagues of slain Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi that their continuation of pro-democracy work has made them targets of potential retaliation from Saudi Arabia. Democracy advocates Iyad el-Baghdadi in Oslo, Norway, Omar Abdulaziz of Montreal, Canada, and a person in the United States who asked not to be named were working closely with Khashoggi on politically sensitive media and human rights projects at the time of his killing, US publication TIME reported on Thursday. The three advocates have received security briefings in recent weeks, warning them of a possible threat from Saudi Arabia, the report said. El-Baghdadi a Palestinian human rights campaigner and writer who won prominence during the 2011 Arab uprisings and has written critically of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) said Norwegian security services took him to a secure location on April 25 and told him of the possible threat. Once I was there and settled down, they told me that they have received a tip from a partner intelligence agency indicating that Ive been the target of a threat, he told Reuters News Agency. Crosshairs on my back El-Baghdadi said he spent three hours at the April meeting discussing with members of Norways PST security service why he might be at risk. They did not describe the nature of the threat except to say that I had crosshairs on my back, that I shouldnt travel and that I should warn my family immediately, el-Baghdadi told TIME. But my entire conversation with the PST from beginning to end was about the Saudis. 1. It is not clear at this time what the nature of the threat was, and there's no indication that it had translated into a specific plot. As I said earlier: They seem to have me in their cross-hairs but it's not clear what they want to do. Iyad el-Baghdadi | (@iyad_elbaghdadi) May 7, 2019 The Saudi embassy in Oslo was not immediately available for comment. Saudi Arabias government communications office did not respond to a request for comment. El-Baghdadi said the Norwegian authorities did not name the partner agency, but from the context of the conversation, he inferred they were referring to the US CIA. The Norwegian justice ministry, which is in charge of the security services, the Norwegian security police, and the foreign ministry all declined to comment. The CIA also declined to comment when contacted by Reuters. Friends and associates of Saudi dissident Abdulaziz, who has permanent resident status in Canada, confirmed to TIME that Canadian security officials visited him at his Montreal home recently and provided a similar threat briefing, prompting him to go into hiding for several days. Saudi Arabia has come under increasing global scrutiny over its human rights record since the grisly murder of Khashoggi last year inside the kingdoms Istanbul consulate and the detention of about a dozen womens rights activists. A bipartisan chorus of US legislators has called on the White House to harden its stance towards Saudi Arabia after Khashoggi, a critic of Crown Prince Mohammed, was killed by Saudi agents in a move widely seen as an attempt to stifle dissent. A CIA assessment blamed MBS for ordering the killing, which Saudi officials deny. Khashoggis body has never been found. Dozens of fighters from an armed group known as Mai-Mai went into the northeastern city of Butembo in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and fought with security forces on Wednesday. Their target was an Ebola treatment centre. This comes as the region experiences a violent uprising and armed groups try to turn efforts to fight Ebola into a political tool. Al Jazeeras Ijeoma Ndukwe reports. Paraguay has declared a state of emergency along the border with Argentina as rains swell rivers and cause floods. Paraguay declared a state of emergency on Wednesday in a province along the border with Argentina as torrential rains continued to swell rivers and cause floods. About 40,000 Paraguayans have been forced to evacuate their homes in recent weeks due to rising waters. Officials say that more than 11,000 of the evacuees live in the capital Asuncion. Thousands have been forced to evacuate their homes in recent weeks [Jorge Saenz/AP] Although they were moved to higher grounds at military bases, public squares and roadsides, some have complained of inefficient government response. 190507174542479 The government treats us like animals, said evacuee Cecilia Salgueiro. It should have rolled up its sleeves and built a defensive [barrier] along the coast to avoid the waters from reaching low-lying flood-prone slums, Salgueiro said. The emergency declaration covers the hard-hit Neembucu province, about 300km south of Asuncion. Most of its territory contains wetlands. Governor Luis Benitez said in a tweet that the situation is difficult and critical for six of our towns. Displaced by floods, Sonia Cardozo, 38, walks by a flooded street as she holds her daughters Milena and Teresa in Asuncion, Paraguay [Jorge Saenz/AP] Other evacuees are spread throughout the landlocked country along the rain-swollen Paraguay River, which originates in the Brazilian state of Mato Grosso do Sul. Its normal level is 4 metres, but it has reached 6.75 metres in the capital due to unusually heavy rains since March. Were not getting any help from the National Emergency Office, complained Alejandro Ortiz, who is staying on the first floor at his home after the ground floor flooded. EU says it will not accept a 60-day window provided by Iran a day after Tehran quit parts of the 2015 nuclear deal. The European Union has rejected Irans 60-day ultimatum, referring to Tehrans decision to quit parts of the 2015 nuclear agreement a year after the US withdrew from the landmark accord signed with major world powers. In a joint statement with the foreign ministries of France, the United Kingdom, and Germany, the EU urged Iran to respect the nuclear deal, and said it regretted new US sanctions imposed on Tehran. The nuclear deal, formally known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), was designed to curb Irans nuclear programme in exchange for sanctions relief. "We note with great concern the statement made by Iran concerning its commitments under the #JCPoA (Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action)." Read the full joint statement by @FedericaMog and the Foreign Ministers of France, Germany and the United Kingdom here https://t.co/h876mR3ZlR European External Action Service EEAS (@eu_eeas) May 9, 2019 We strongly urge Iran to continue to implement its commitments under the JCPOA in full as it has done until now and to refrain from any escalatory steps, the statement said. We reject any ultimatums and we will assess Irans compliance on the basis of Irans performance regarding its nuclear-related commitments under the JCPOA. On Wednesday, Tehran announced it would resume high-level enrichment of uranium if world powers do not keep their promises under the deal. Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said the remaining signatories the UK, France, Germany, China and Russia had 60 days to implement their promises to protect Irans oil and banking sectors from US sanctions. In response, US President Donald Trumps administration announced harsh new sanctions on Irans steel, aluminium, copper and iron sectors as tensions surged between the decades-long rivals. Francois Nicoullaud, a former French ambassador to Iran, said it was regrettable that EU leaders failed to protest the United States hard line on Iran with the latest sanctions. The last American decision really attacks the heart of the nuclear deal, Nicoullaud told Al Jazeera. The United States had the right under international law to leave the deal. But from outside, attacking the Iranian commitment this is really a hostile attitude. 180509072633096 In its statement, the EU said it remained committed to its stance regarding sanction-lifting for the benefit of the Iranian people. The Europeans have set up a complicated barter-type system to skirt direct financial transactions with Iran to evade US sanctions. The workaround, dubbed INSTEX, is not yet operational as Iran has not completed its part of the scheme. The bloc said it plans to push ahead with the operationalisation of the special purpose vehicle INSTEX. The EU has also introduced a so-called blocking statute protecting European companies from the effects of US sanctions, but many international corporations do more business in the United States than in Iran. In a message implicitly directed at the US administration, the EU powers said, We call on countries not party to the [deal] to refrain from taking any actions that impede the remaining parties ability to fully perform their commitments. EUs moral support Shortly after the EU statement, the spokesman of the Atomic Energy Organisation of Iran, Behrouz Kamalvandi, said: Our goal is to strengthen the JCPOA and bring it back on track. Al Jazeeras Zein Basravi, reporting from Tehran, said Iranian leaders believed it was time for their European partners to decide whether they wanted to implement their commitments to the deal in the face of American pressure. We are really getting a signal that in the last few weeks and months there have been lines drawn in the sand by the US and by Iran, Basravi said. He noted since Washingtons unilateral pullout, Iran has drifted away from depending on European partners for anything but moral support, as they have not yet had a functional effect on bettering Irans economy. The EUs statement may also be an attempt by European powers to draw their own boundaries, according to Al Jazeeras Natacha Butler, reporting from Paris. On Wednesday, European governments, including France, expressed concern over the developments threatening the agreement. Meanwhile, Russia and China blamed US sanctions for Tehrans announcement. Irans Foreign Minister Javad Zarif insisted that Irans decision to withdraw from certain provisions did not violate the agreement, and said it had been provoked by the US. He also said Iran would uphold its obligations if European signatories to the deal upheld theirs. In a way, they [European powers] have become increasingly trapped in the middle as the situation escalates between the US and Iran, Butler said. EU leaders know that it is unlikely to come up with anything [solution] by that timeframe, and what theyre rejecting is that timeframe in the first place, she said, referring to Irans 60-day window. A watchdog accuses German police of choking and squeezing genitals of Afghan man while he was being expelled. A European Council watchdog committee has accused German police of mistreating an Afghan man who was being expelled by choking him and squeezing his genitals. To ill-treat a person by squeezing the genitals, a technique which is clearly aimed at inflicting severe pain to gain compliance, is both excessive and inappropriate, the councils Committee for the Prevention of Torture (CPT) said in a report on Thursday. 190505224525384 It focused on an August 14, 2018 charter flight that carried 46 Afghans from Munich to Kabul on behalf of the European Unions border agency Frontex after their asylum requests had been denied. Three CPT representatives were also on the flight, along with about 100 German police officers, six of whom had restrained the Afghan in question. The mass expulsion took place for the most part in a professional manner, the report said, but one unruly Afghan man was subdued using two controversial techniques, the second being the use of an arm around his neck to temporarily cut off his air supply. The CPT considers that any use of force must avoid inducing a sensation of asphyxia on the person concerned, the report said. The CPT recommends that the German authorities take immediate action to end the application of these two techniques by Federal Police escort officers. In 2016, Germany and Afghanistan signed an accord concerning the expulsion of Afghans whose asylum requests have been rejected, and the CPT is charged with ensuring that the process is not accompanied by acts of torture, or inhuman or degrading treatment. The expulsions are controversial in Germany owing to the levels of violence and unrest in Afghanistan. Hungary forces Afghans to cross into Serbia Elsewhere, Hungary forced 11 Afghan nationals to cross into Serbia after rejecting their asylum requests, a rights advocate said on Wednesday, and deported a 12th convicted of people smuggling back to Kabul. The deportation of a further five Afghans, all members of the same family, was temporarily suspended following an appeal to the European Court of Human Rights by the Hungarian Helsinki Committee, a human rights group. The United Nations refugee agency (UNHCR) said Hungarys action to force the two families to leave the country was a flagrant violation of international and EU law. 180803184242711 Under Hungarian law, the claims of asylum seekers arriving from a country that Hungary deems safe are rejected, the agency said in a statement, adding that the case highlighted deep concerns over that practice. The Hungarian Immigration and Asylum Office (IAO) said the measures were part of a joint operation with European border and coastguard agency Frontex, in which 39 people were flown to Afghanistan altogether. The Helsinki Committee said the Hungarian operation targeted three Afghan families. Two families, including a pregnant woman, were moved to Serbia overnight. These people were put in an impossible situation, said Andras Lederer, a Helsinki information and advocacy officer Either (to) return to Kabul or cross over into Serbia in the middle of nowhere late at night. The IAO said 11 people chose to go to Serbia. The Serbian authorities had given the families accommodation in a reception centre, the UNHCR said. An interior ministry media officer said the single Afghan deportee had been convicted of people smuggling. Lederer said the family of five was being held at a border transit zone while their case was pending. The European Court of Human Rights did not immediately respond to emailed questions for comment. The IAO said before arriving in Hungary, the asylum seekers had passed through several countries, including an EU member state, where they had access to medical and other assistance. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban leads a nationalist government with a strongly anti-immigrant platform, which is a key plank of the ruling Fidesz partys campaign for the European Parliament elections from May 23 to 26. The UNHCR has advised Frontex to refrain from supporting Hungary in the enforcement of return decisions which are not in line with international and EU law, the refugee agency said. Three days of hearings at the International Court of Justice have centred around Dohas blocking of a UAE visa website. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Qatar traded accusations at the International Court of Justice on Thursday in the latest development in the ongoing Gulf diplomatic crisis. In a July 2018 hearing, the ICJ ordered the UAE to ensure that Qatari families living in the Emirates are reunited with their relatives back home and Qatari students in the UAE are allowed to continue their studies without fear of deportation. But the UAE this week sought an injunction against Qatar, claiming Doha is blocking a website through which Qataris can apply for UAE visas. Qatar told the court it had blocked the site, saying it posed a state security threat because of malware coded within thats designed to infiltrate the Gulf states security systems. This is the worlds top court and both sides have employed some of the worlds best international lawyers, said Al Jazeeras Stefanie Dekker, reporting from The Hague. This is a legal issue so in one sense the politics have been left at the door. But really its all about the politics. Emergency injunction The case revolves around the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination. Saudi Arabia, Egypt and Bahrain the countries which, along with the UAE, have been enforcing a blockade of Qatar since June 2017 have not signed up to the convention, and so the case is only between signatories Qatar and the UAE. The wider ICJ discrimination hearing between the UAE and Qatar, stemming from the ongoing blockade, has not yet been ruled upon but experts say this weeks emergency injunction has been sought by UAE officials fearful that Qatar may be undermining its case. Qatar has come to this court, they have also come to the Committee for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, and theyve also gone to several other places to try to resolve this, William Worster, adjunct professor of law at The Hague University, told Al Jazeera. They have a large political disagreement, yes [but] there are legal elements within that so with violations of international treaties etc, where they do have legal claims, they have taken these legal issues to this legal forum. The political issues will remain in the political forum. Campaign of hatred The UAE claimed on Thursday that Qatars accusations against it were false and alleged Doha had forged evidence. It has also said Qatars blocking of the visa website was a deliberate attempt to impair the UAEs efforts to implement the courts order. Qatar, however, said the UAE was carrying out a campaign of violence and hatred against its citizens and urged the UNs top court to throw out Abu Dhabis case. It is the Qatari people who are the true victims in the racial discrimination case, not the government of the UAE, said Qatars representative Mohammed Abdulaziz al-Khulaifi. Neither side has made any official comment to reporters. The three days of hearings concluded on Thursday, and a verdict is expected in the coming days. Washington, DC Democrats on the House Judiciary Committee voted on Wednesday to recommend a contempt citation against US Attorney General William Barr, setting the stage for a constitutional confrontation with the White House over Special Counsel Robert Muellers full Russia report. The 24-16 vote by the key Judiciary Committee came along party lines with all Democrats voting in favour, and all Republicans present opposed. One Republican was absent. This was very great and momentous step that we were forced to take today to move a contempt citation against the attorney general of the United States. We did not relish doing this but we have no choice, Representative Jerrold Nadler, the Democrat chairman of the House Judiciary Committee, told reporters after the vote. Barr had proved himself to be the personal attorney of President Trump rather than the attorney general of the United States, by misleading the public as to the contents of the Mueller report, twice, by not being truthful with Congress, Nadler said. The approval of the contempt resolution, which now goes to the full House for a vote, will likely prompt a court battle that may result in fines or jail time for Barr. The vote came after weeks of talks between the lawyers for the committee and the attorney general failed to yield an agreement over access to Muellers full, unredacted report. Democrats are angry Mueller did not provide a roadmap for impeachment, said Representative Doug Collins, the top Republican on the Judiciary Committee. By moving to this contempt citation at lightning speed, the committee Democrats were pursuing craven and insincere politics that seem to be yielding no benefits for the American people, Collins said. Trump invokes executive privilege Hours before the vote, Republican President Donald Trump invoked executive privilege to block the release of the unredacted version of the Mueller report. 190508142330405 Federal courts have recognised a limited right by presidents to keep executive branch materials confidential. White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders said the privilege claim was in response to Nadlers blatant abuse of power and at the attorney generals request. House Democrats argued that Trump has already waived any right to executive privilege by allowing aides to provide information to the special counsel. The Department of Justice said on Wednesday that its not true the president waived executive privilege by sharing materials with the special counsels office, according to Reuters news agency, quoting an unnamed department official. The department also accused Democrats of engaging in inappropriate political theatrics. Nadler called Trumps executive privilege decision a nonsense claim. We will win these court fights because the law is one sided. And when the president or Attorney General Barr or anybody else cites executive privilege in these cases, they are not being honest, because there is no real claim at all, he said. Wednesdays developments come as a battle between House Democrats and the Trump administration intensifies. Trump has sought to block aides and former staffers from cooperating with a number of congressional investigations looking into the presidents behaviour and finances. If we dont put the breaks, we wont have a democracy The Judiciary Committee is seeking to have Mueller testify at a hearing later this month, perhaps as soon as May 15, and has asked former White House Counsel Don McGahn to appear on May 21. 190418154116647 White House lawyers are attempting to block McGahn from testifying. Reversing his earlier stance, Trump indicated in a series of tweets he is now opposed to Mueller testifying. The president keeps saying there is not going to be a do over. And he has talked about a number of people have said we should just be finished. That is the worst thing we could do, Representative Elijah Cummings, the Democrat chairman of the House Oversight Committee, told Al Jazeera. If we do not put brakes on what is happening in our country, we will no longer have a democracy, Cummings said. We are being blocked every which way from getting information. We also being blocked from having access to members of the administration. Representative David Cicilline, a Democrat, told reporters in the US Capitol that sentiment among Democrats was hardening against Trumps refusal to cooperate with the House review of the Mueller probe. Everyone recognises that the administration is attempting to stonewall and prevent progress because they want to run out the clock. We recognize that, Cicilline said. Republicans discounted the Judiciary Committee vote to hold Barr in contempt as a partisan exercise. Its a political contempt vote and we fully expected it, said Representative Mark Meadows, a Republican who chairs the conservative Freedom Caucus in the House in advance of the vote. When you play politics with somebody who has been as honest and forthright as Attorney General Barr has been, I think the American people will see it for what it is. Its political, Meadows told Al Jazeera. In favour of prosecution Barr has come under criticism for his handling of Muellers 22-month investigation. More than 500 former Justice Department officials have signed an open letter calling Trumps actions described in the Mueller report criminal. We believe strongly that the overwhelming weight of professional judgment would come down in favour of prosecution for the conduct outlined in the Mueller report, the letter said. The redacted version of the Mueller report did not establish that the Trump campaign conspired with Russian operatives. The investigation did, however, examine multiple acts by the president that were capable of exerting undue influence over law enforcement investigations. Mueller did not conclude that Trump committed obstruction of justice, but did not exonerate him either. Barr and Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein subsequently concluded that Trump did not break the law. The Justice Department has made a less-redacted version available for House and Senate leaders and some committee heads, but the Democrats have said that is not enough and have so far declined to read it. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has criticised Barr for mischaracterising the Mueller report said last week she believed Barr lied to Congress when he told House and Senate hearings he did not know of any concerns among Muellers team about his actions. Mueller had written a letter to Barr in March that said the attorney generals summary of the investigation had failed to adequately characterise the substance of the investigation. US Attorney General William Barr testifies before the Senate Judiciary Committee on The Justice Departments Investigation of Russian Interference with the 2016 Presidential Election [Nicholas Kamm/AFP] Barr was grilled by Democrat senators in a hearing before the Senate Judiciary Committee on May 1. Meanwhile, Senate Republicans are seeking to bring an end to the controversy over the Mueller report. Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Lindsey Graham has said he does not intend to call Mueller to testify. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell gave a speech in the Senate on Tuesday arguing the matter should be closed. Iran has lashed out at its European partners in the faltering nuclear deal on Thursday, accusing them of kowtowing to US pressure after Washington imposed more severe sanctions. Foreign Minister Javad Zarif said the United States had bullied European Union nations and he chided them for not living up to their obligations under the landmark 2015 agreement, which curbed Tehrans nuclear development in return for relief from hard-hitting sanctions. Earlier on Thursday, the EU rejected Irans 60-day ultimatum to protect its oil and banking sectors from American sanctions. Tehran said a day earlier it would partially withdraw from aspects of the landmark accord known formally as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) if EU nations failed to do so. EU statement today is why JCPOA is where it is: the US has bullied Europe and rest of world for a year and EU can only express regret. Instead of demanding that Iran unilaterally abide by a multilateral accord, EU should uphold obligations including normalisation of economic ties, Zarif wrote on Twitter. Irans ally Russia on Thursday denounced new US sanctions on Irans mining industry and called for talks to preserve the nuclear deal with Tehran. We strongly condemn this step, the foreign ministry said in a statement. Because of the seriousness of what is happening, Iran and world powers should meet to determine ways to normalise the situation, it said. Iran scrupulously carries out its obligations under the nuclear deal and its decision to suspend it partially was a last-ditch effort, the ministry added. Differences of opinion The nuclear deal required Iran to curb its uranium enrichment capacity to head off any pathway to developing a nuclear bomb, in return for the removal of most international sanctions. A series of more intrusive UN inspections under the deal have verified that Iran is meeting its commitments. European countries have tried to develop a system to allow outside investors to do business with Iran while avoiding falling foul of US sanctions. But in practice, this has failed so far, with all major European firms that had announced plans to invest in Iran saying they would no longer do so. German Chancellor Angela Merkel said on Thursday the EU wants to avoid an escalation in the dispute, adding Tehran must recognise it is in its own interests to remain committed to the nuclear deal. Merkel highlighted the differences of opinion with the United States in her assessment of the Iran nuclear standoff, and said a united Europe is essential in facing the crisis. Were not in favour of an escalation of the situation, but rather on using further diplomatic means, she said. We also know our limits, but the more unified Europe appears the greater our chances are to perhaps increase the likelihood of realising solutions through talks. French President Emmanuel Macron called for the nuclear deal to be extended to cover other issues of concern to the West, such as Irans regional policies and ballistic missiles, rather than jettisoned. Leaving the 2015 nuclear agreement is a mistake because it is undoing what we have already done. Thats why France is remaining and will remain a part of it and I deeply hope that Iran will remain, Macron said. Give us a call US President Donald Trump, meanwhile, suggested a new nuclear deal could be hammered out if Iran is ready to bargain. What I would like to see with Iran, I would like to see them call me, Trump told reporters at the White House. They should call. If they do, we are open to talk to them. I want them to be strong and great, to have a great economy. We can make a fair deal. We dont want them to have nuclear weapons not much to ask, he added. Asked about Trumps comments, Irans ambassador to the United Nations Majid Takht-Ravanchi said Tehran had been talking with the six powers involved in the accord, including the US within the framework of the nuclear deal. All of a sudden he decided to leave the negotiating table What is the guarantee that he will not renege again? Takht Ravanchi said in an MSNBC interview. The US has deployed the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier strike group to the Gulf, but Trump said Washington was not looking for a conflict with Tehran. Strike group approaches The US president declined to say what prompted him to deploy the carrier group to the region over what was described as unspecified threats. We have information that you dont want to know about, said Trump. They were very threatening and we have to have great security for this country and many other places. Trump was asked whether there was a risk of military confrontation with the American military presence in the Gulf. I guess you could say that always, right? I dont want to say no, but hopefully, that wont happen. We have one of the most powerful ships in the world that is loaded up and we dont want to do anything, he said. Ravanchi dismissed US allegations of an Iranian threat as fake intelligence, and said they were being produced by the same people who in the run-up to the US invasion of Iraq did the same. During the rule of Saddam Hussein, the seminaries had their powers and number of students limited but now they are witnessing a revival. Iraqs ancient city of Najaf is known for its Howzas or seminaries. They faced restrictions under the rule of Saddam Hussein, but since his death, there has been a revival. Al Jazeeras Dorsa Jabbari met some of the thousands of students who travel to Najaf in the hope of joining the next generation of religious leaders. Report of latest launch comes days after Pyongyang tested rockets and a short-range missile last Saturday. North Korea fired what appeared to be two short-range missiles on Thursday less than a week after its leader Kim Jong Un oversaw the test-firing of multiple rockets and a missile. South Koreas president said the tests seemed to be a protest by North Korea after Kim and US President Donald Trump failed to reach agreement on North Koreas nuclear weapons and missile arsenal at a February summit in Vietnam. North Korea seemed to be discontented it could not reach a deal in Hanoi, President Moon Jae-in said in an interview with South Korean broadcaster KBS. The two missiles were fired from the northwest area of Kusong, in an easterly direction, South Koreas Joint Chiefs of Staff said in a statement. Analysts said it was too soon to say exactly what kind of missiles they were after flying about 420km and 270km before crashing into the sea. You dont know what missile it is just from how far it flew, said Yang Uk, a senior research fellow at the Korea Defence and Security Forum. Escalation tactics Tensions are rising at a time of stalemate in nuclear talks with the United States. North Korea has returned to its classic escalation tactics from before, Yang said. I believe they will keep escalating by using what appear to be short-range missiles, something that will not cause the US to react right away. Analysts have warned if North Korea returns to the kind of longer-range banned weapons it tested in 2017 when many feared a Washington-Pyongyang standoff could end in war it would be a strong sign that a frustrated North Korea is turning away from diplomacy. South Koreas presidential Blue House called the missile launches very worrisome and unhelpful for efforts to reduce tensions on the peninsula and improve Korean relations amid protracted talks on denuclearisation. This week, North Korea lashed out at the US and South Korea, saying Saturdays tests were regular and self-defensive and rejecting the notion that they were provocative. Deadlocked diplomacy North Korea and the US are currently deadlocked in diplomacy meant to rid the North of its nuclear arsenal. Late on Wednesday, Stephen Biegun, the US special representative on North Korea, arrived in Seoul for talks with South Korean officials on the allies approach towards Pyongyang. It is Bieguns first visit to Seoul since the Hanoi summit between Trump and Kim collapsed without an agreement. North Korea wants widespread sanctions relief in return for disarmament steps that the US has apparently seen as insufficient. Longer-range ballistic missile tests, banned by the United Nations and seen as threatening by surrounding countries, would likely result in more sanctions. Pyongyang, Seoul and Washington have refrained from calling Saturdays launch a missile, which could jeopardise the ongoing diplomacy by violating UN Security Council resolutions, as well as Kims promise of a freeze on long-range missile tests. The North has said Saturdays drill involved multiple Pyongyang long-range multiple rocket launchers and tactical guided weapons. But experts say North Korea launched at least one short-range missile during the exercise, with a report on the 38 North website suggesting it was a direct import of a Russian-produced Iskander missile. The debris generated by the launch in North Korea is a virtual match of a launch of Iskander conducted by Russia, it said. If North Korea imported Iskanders from Russia, the report added, it has an existing capacity to deliver warheads to targets in South Korea with great precision. Armenias imprisoned former president Robert Kocharyan told Reuters powerful opposition forces were coming together to challenge the ex-Soviet states new leadership soon, and that he hoped to be among them. Kocharyan, who was president from 1998 to 2008, was arrested last year, charged with acting unlawfully by introducing state of emergency in March 2008, following a disputed election. At least ten people were killed in clashes between police and protesters. The 64-year-old ex-president was arrested in July after peaceful protests drove his former ally and successor, Serzh Sarksyan, from power and propelled opposition leader Nikol Pashinyan into the prime ministers job in May, last year. Critics have accused Kocharyan and his former allies of cracking down on democracy, corruption and mismanagement during their time in power Armenia, a country that depends heavily on Russian aid and investment. They have denied those allegations. Writing from the detention centre where he is being held, Kocharyan told Reuters the charges against him were politically motivated, and accused Pashinyans government of selectively applying the law to keep him in jail. Pashinyan bolstered his authority in Armenia as his political bloc won early parliamentary elections in December last year. The My Step Alliance, which includes Pashinyans Civil Contract Party, won 70.4 percent of the vote. Kocharyan said that new politicians and opposition parties were emerging in Armenia. This process will certainly lead to the creation of a powerful political force capable of challenging the authorities very soon, he said in written answers to questions sent by Reuters earlier this week. Asked if he would be personally involved in the emerging opposition, he replied: Yes, of course. But he did not give details about what form that involvement could take. Looking back at the mass protests last year that led to power change in the South Caucasus country of about 3 million people, Kocharyan said they were caused by accumulated discontent in the society and desire for change, but were not a revolution. I would not call it a revolution as fundamentally nothing has changed in the country, except for the appearance of a big share of aggression in the society, and populism and dilettantism in the leadership, he said in written answers to questions the Reuters had sent to him. Kocharyan also defended the decisions he took during the 2008 protests. Order was restored only after the introduction of the state of emergency and thanks to it, he said. Not doing that would have meant official inaction on the part of the president. The chairman of the US House Foreign Affairs Committee urged Gulf countries to resolve the ongoing diplomatic spat. The chairman of the US House Foreign Affairs Committee has called for Gulf countries to work together to contain what he describes as the threat posed by Iran. Eliot Engel said the US and its Gulf partners share similar opportunities and urged parties involved in the GCC diplomatic crisis to find a resolution to counter the regions real threats. The United States and its Gulf partners share economic opportunities, anti-terrorism concerns and can be working together to counter the threat posed by Iran, Engel said on Wednesday. For this to happen, a unified Gulf is essential, but so far we have not seen, unfortunately, enough progress to end the Qatar blockade, he said. The comments come amid an ongoing blockade on Qatar imposed in June 2017, by Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Egypt. The quartet has accused Qatar of supporting terrorism. Qatar has denied the charges and said the boycott aims to impinge on its sovereignty. Engel also urged the blockading countries to lift sanctions imposed against Qatar. It is in all parties interest to end the blockade so that we can work together to counter the real threats in the region, he said. At the very least, the Gulf countries should allow Qatar overflight rights. The tension between the US and rival Iran has escalated after US President Donald Trump imposed fresh sanctions via an executive order. On Wednesday, he sanctioned Irans steel, aluminium, copper and iron sectors, which provide crucial foreign currency earnings for its crippled economy, and threatened further action. Trumps move came after Tehran earlier said it was quitting parts of the 2015 nuclear agreement with world powers, which Washington abandoned in 2018 and ignited the current crisis. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said he hopes the nuclear deal can be saved after Irans announcement. European countries who are signatories to the deal expressed concern over the latest developments threatening the agreement. Across Europe, there was concern over the latest developments threatening the nuclear deal. Russia and China, also signatories, have blamed US sanctions for Tehrans announcement. Raids launched after several Pakistani women allegedly lured into fake marriages and forced into prostitution. Pakistan has arrested dozens of Chinese men and their agents in a crackdown this week against traffickers targeting young women, mostly belonging to the countrys Christian minority. The arrests were made in various cities of the central province of Punjab since Sunday, Pakistans Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) said on Thursday. Half a dozen women between the ages of 17 and 25 were also rescued during the operation in Faisalabad, Lahore, Rawalpindi and the capital, Islamabad. The operation was launched after several Pakistani women were allegedly lured by the prospect of marriage with Chinese men, trafficked to China, and forced to become prostitutes there. Most of the women were rescued by Chinese authorities after the Pakistani embassy in Beijing alerted officials about the trafficking, FIAs Saeed Abbasi told dpa news agency. 170830081303813 Chinese gangs have been working in a very organised way, said FIAs Tariq Rustam Chohan, who was leading the action in the eastern city of Lahore. Chohan said at least 30 Chinese citizens and more than a dozen of their local agents had been arrested in Lahore alone. The Chinese embassy said last month Beijing is cooperating with Pakistan to crack down on unlawful matchmaking centres, saying both Chinese and Pakistani youths are victims of these illegal agents. Human Rights Watch has called on China and Pakistan to take action to end bride trafficking, warning in an April 26 statement of increasing evidence that Pakistani women and girls are at risk of sexual slavery in China. Last month, a Pakistani news channel spotlighted growing concerns about the issue in Pakistan, claiming it had gained entry to a matchmaking centre in Lahore where poor families would marry their daughters off to Chinese nationals in exchange for money and a visa. According to an Associated Press report, brokers are aggressively seeking out women for Chinese men, sometimes even cruising outside churches to ask for potential brides. It said they are being helped by Christian clergy paid to target impoverished parents in their congregation with promises of wealth in exchange for their daughters. Parents receive several thousand dollars and are told their new sons-in-law are wealthy Christian converts. There is a growing population of Chinese citizens in Pakistan, fuelled by the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a $60bn project that is seeing Chinese companies build roads, power plants and industrial zones across the South Asian country. US officials allege the Wise Honest vessel violated US and UN sanctions by illicitly shipping coal from North Korea. In an unusual civil forfeiture action, the US Department of Justice announced on Thursday it has seized a major cargo vessel belonging to North Korea known as the Wise Honest, which officials allege violated United States and United Nations sanctions by illicitly shipping coal from North Korea. The ship, which was first confiscated by other foreign maritime authorities in Indonesia in April 2018, is now in US possession and is currently approaching US territorial waters, a Justice Department official said. The 17,061-tonne ship, which was also used to deliver heavy machinery to North Korea, is one of the countrys largest bulk carriers, the Justice Department said. The case marks the first time the US has seized a North Korean cargo vessel for violating sanctions. Our office uncovered North Koreas scheme to export tonnes of high-grade coal to foreign buyers by concealing the origin of their ship, the Wise Honest, US lawyer Geoffrey Berman said in a statement. This scheme not only allowed North Korea to evade sanctions, but the Wise Honest was also used to import heavy machinery to North Korea, Berman added. According to UN sanctions monitors, the Wise Honest was transporting 25,500 tonnes of coal when it was detained by Indonesia in April 2018. The UN report estimated that the value of the ships coal cargo was around three million dollars. This sanctions-busting ship is now out of service, John Demers, the head of the Justice Departments National Security Division, said in a statement. North Korea did not immediately comment on the seizure. Delicate moment The announcement of the seizure comes at a delicate moment between the two countries. Hours earlier, North Korea fired two suspected short-range missiles in an apparent sign of trouble for nuclear disarmament talks. The two missiles were fired from the northwest area of Kusong, in an easterly direction, South Koreas Joint Chiefs of Staff said in a statement. 190509081015783 They came less than a week after North Koreas leader Kim Jong Un oversaw the test-firing of multiple rockets and a missile. Analysts said it was too soon to say exactly what kind of missiles they were after flying about 420km and 270km before crashing into the sea. South Korean President Moon Jae-in said the tests seemed to be a protest by North Korea after Kim and US President Donald Trump failed to reach agreement on Pyongyangs nuclear weapons and missile arsenal at a February summit in Vietnam. Analysts have warned if the North returns to the kind of longer-range banned weapons it tested in 2017, it will be a strong sign that a frustrated North Korea is turning away from diplomacy. Trump told reporters on Thursday he knows North Korea wants to negotiate with the US, but that he does not think it is ready to do so. The relationship continues I know they want to negotiate, theyre talking about negotiating. But I dont think theyre ready to negotiate, Trump told reporters at the White House. He said nobody is happy about North Koreas latest missile launch. 190506172919131 US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, who earlier cut short a European trip to return to Washington for meetings on Iran, was also due to have discussions on North Korea after learning of the launches, a senior US State Department official said. Pompeo was due to meet on Thursday with Japans Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga, who is expected to raise Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abes hopes to set up a summit with Kim. Weekend tests On Saturday, North Korea launched multiple rockets and at least one short-range ballistic missile. That was North Koreas first test of a ballistic missile since launching an intercontinental ballistic missile in November 2017 and sharply raising tension at a time of stalemate in its talks with the US. 190505074832250 This week, North Korea lashed out at the US and South Korea, saying the weekend launches were regular and self-defensive and rejecting the notion that they were provocative. It criticised Seoul and Washington for carrying out military drills. Trump and his administration played down the weekend tests, and in a Twitter message on Saturday, the US president said he was still confident he could reach a deal with Kim. Trump has previously held up a freeze in missile testing since 2017 as evidence of progress with North Korea, while he and Pompeo have brushed aside Kims demand for Washington to show more flexibility in nuclear talks by the year-end. In 2017, after North Korea tested its most powerful intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) which it said was capable of delivering a warhead to anywhere in the US Kim declared his nuclear force complete. He then extended an olive branch to Seoul and Washington, holding two summits with Trump and three with the South Korean president. A North Korean media report on Wednesday had hinted at the more tests, saying, The South Korean military were astonished by the recent strike drill. It might fall into a swoon to see a strike drill involving more powerful cutting-edge weapons. The panel renewed interest in talking to Trump Jr after the presidents ex-lawyer, Cohen, testified earlier this year. The United States Senate Intelligence Committee has subpoenaed one of the presidents sons, Donald Trump Jr, to answer questions about his contacts with Russia, US media reported on Wednesday, citing unnamed congressional sources. The panel is seeking to question Trump Jr about congressional testimony he gave in September 2017 to the Senate Judiciary Committee which was subsequently contradicted in public testimony by former Trump attorney Michael Cohen, one source told Reuters News Agency. During his Judiciary Committee appearance, the source said, Trump Jr was asked about the extent of his involvement in a plan to build a Trump Tower in Moscow. Like I said, I was peripherally aware of it, but most of my knowledge has been gained since as it relates to hearing about it over the last few weeks, Trump Jr told the committee, according to an official transcript. In testimony before the House of Representatives Oversight Committee, however, Cohen, who began serving a federal prison sentence earlier this week, said he briefed Trump family members approximately 10 times about the Moscow Trump Tower project, and that Donald Jr and his sister Ivanka were among the family members he briefed. A Senate Intelligence Committee spokeswoman declined to discuss details of its long-running investigation into allegations of Russian meddling in the 2016 US presidential election. The subpoena is a sign that the panel is still conducting its investigation even after the release of Special Counsel Robert Muellers report. A lawyer for Donald Trump Jr did not immediately respond to Reuterss request for comment. Confrontation intensifies 190508202237142 The reports came as a battle between House Democrats and the Trump administration intensified. Separately on Wednesday, the Democratic-led House Judiciary Committee approved a measure to hold US Attorney General William Barr in contempt for refusing to hand over an unredacted copy of Muellers Russia report. The measure now goes to the full House for a vote, and likely sets up a court battle and possible fines or jail time for Barr. President Donald Trump also invoked the legal principle of executive privilege to block the reports disclosure. Trump, seeking re-election in 2020, is stonewalling numerous probes by House Democrats, ranging from Muellers inquiry to matters such as Trumps tax returns and past financial records. Singapore After an intense debate, Singapores parliament has passed a sweeping anti-fake news bill despite concerns raised by journalists, academics and global technology companies over free speech and abuse of power. Legislators in the island-nation on Wednesday voted to grant government ministers broad powers such as the ability to demand corrections, order the removal of content, or block websites deemed to be propagating falsehoods contrary to the public interest. Penalties for not complying with orders include steep fines and jail time. Critics say the legislation grants arbitrary powers to government officials to determine what is deemed as fact, arguing that the private sector should be the final arbiter of what constitutes false and irresponsible statements. They say the answer lies in fact-checking websites, vigilance by tech giants such as Google, Facebook and Twitter and increased media literacy to help news consumers better distinguish between the plausible and the improbable. Opponents also claim that the legislation will give government officials unprecedented powers and will stifle free speech in an era when populist leaders around the world label the media as the enemy of the people. Singapore, whose government regulates its large local media outlets, is ranked 151 out 180 in the World Press Freedom Index released by Reporters Without Borders. During the two-day debate in parliament, Law and Home Affairs Minister K Shanmugam took issue with claims the law will have a chilling effect on free speech, and said the new measures will affect falsehood, bots, trolls and fake accounts. In the buildup to the heated debate, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong called a legislative remedy an essential part in fighting online hate speech and fake news, adding that it has become absurdly easy for people to conduct covert and subversive campaigns to manipulate opinions and influence elections. Penalties, fines The Protection From Online Falsehoods and Manipulation Bill allows government ministers to hold individuals and online platforms accountable for what they consider malicious falsehoods that harm the public interest. Penalties for not obeying an order include up to 10 years jail time and $1 million Singapore dollars ($735,080) in fines. An individual or a web portal ordered to correct or remove an item could apply to the ministers to challenge an order, and if denied, could turn to a court as the final arbiter. Critics worry the appeal process would be slow, intimidating and costly. Proponents say these fears are overblown. While the legislation targets factually-incorrect statements, it does not apply, they claim, to opinions, criticisms, satire or parody. Supporters of the bill say the countrys small size makes it especially easy for online rumours to exacerbate existing tensions in the multireligious, multiracial society. Legislation complements and does not replace our suite of tools to deal with deliberate online falsehoods, S Iswaran, Singapores minister for communications and information, told a gathering of WAN-IFRA, the World Association of Newspapers and News Publishers. But government involvement in determining whats true and whats false has many saying the measures will set a dangerous precedent. In the wrong hands, legislation such as the one under discussion, can be misused for selfish gain. No government or minister good or bad should be allowed to wield such broad powers. The bill should be withdrawn pending a genuine and robust discussion on how best to combat fake news, a letter signed by journalists warned. The Asia Internet Coalition, an industry association whose members include Facebook, Google and Twitter, called for more safeguards in the bill: The overwhelming consensus is that this bill will impact freedom of expression and curtail the rights of individuals, Singaporean or otherwise, to freely express opinions and participate in informed discussions, even debates, that are necessary to ensure executive transparency and accountability. Academics signed a letter expressing concerns over unintended consequences for scholars and research in Singapore. We are concerned about Singapores proposed legislation certainly not because we are oblivious to the seriousness of the global assault on reason. On the contrary, academics are at the frontlines of this battle. But no countrys response should undermine the very capacities it requires to deal with this crisis, the academics wrote. Others worry the legislation will allow the Peoples Action Party the countrys sole ruling party since 1959 to promote self-censorship and intimidate dissenters. There is a genuine sense amongst the public that this bill can easily be abused in the wrong hands, opposition leader Pritam Singh said in parliament, adding that the courts would be a more neutral venue. The bill empowers government ministers to act to protect national security, public health, public finance, public safety and tranquillity in the friendly relations between Singapore and other countries, and the weakening of public confidence in the government. That last provision worries Singaporean journalist P N Balji, who wrote: The proposed law allows any minister, without any oversight and check, to act against those whom they believe are guilty of contravening the law, calling it unprecedented in modern Singapores legal history. Many Singaporeans back the notion of strong legislation as long as it is enforced judiciously. Singaporeans are not unfamiliar with tough laws and our particularistic conception of freedom of speech and expression, said Eugene Tan, associate professor of law at Singapore Management University. There is also a sufficient level of awareness of the threats of fake news and Singaporeans are fairly sensitised to the need for countermeasures that the bill proposes. My sense is that Singaporeans would rather the authorities be endowed with the ability to engage in decisive and swift action against harmful content hosted on various social media platforms. Follow @tgbenner on Twitter The ANC is competing against 47 other parties to win the election, the highest number ever. South Africans voting in elections have expressed frustration about corruption, unemployment and racial inequalities that persist 25 years after the end of apartheid. While its widely expected that the ruling African National Congress will win, other parties such as the Economic Freedom Fighters, led by Julius Malema, are expected to dent the ANCs gains. As Al Jazeeras Fahmida Miller reports from Cape Town, these polls are the toughest test yet for the party of late president Nelson Mandela. Johannesburg, South Africa With more than 50 percent of votes counted in South Africas general election, the ruling African National Congress (ANC) party looks set to maintain power, despite gains for opposition parties. By late Thursday afternoon in South Africa, the ANC had captured about 57 percent of the vote. The centrist Democratic Alliance (DA) had about 23 percent and the far-left Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) party was nearing 10 percent. The final results are expected to be announced on Saturday. Statistics from the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) showed turnout was about 65 percent, down from some 73 percent in 2014 and a reflection of growing disenchantment with both the ruling ANC and the political system more generally. Turnout was particularly low among the youth and in underprivileged townships, a number of which erupted in service delivery protests in the days leading up to the poll. Voter turnout was about 65 percent, according to the IEC, down nearly 10 percent from 2014 [Christopher Clark/Al Jazeera] According to the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), the ANC will likely get 58 percent of the final vote count, a marked dip in performance from 2014s elections, when the party got 62 percent of the vote. The ANC has never polled below 60 percent in general elections since the dawn of South Africas democracy 25 years ago but has been beset by a raft of scandals and economic crises in recent years. However, Sithembile Mbete, a political analyst, cautioned: The early results are always somewhat skewed because certain areas come in earlier than others. Backlash against centrist politics Mbete also told Al Jazeera that two interesting opposition trends had emerged so far: the right-wing Freedom Front Plus picking up votes at the expense of the DA and the EFF, in only its second election, picking up votes at the expense of the ANC. I think that we are seeing the same kind of backlash against centrist politics that youve seen in the rest of the world, Mbete added. 190506162348258 Prior to Wednesdays vote, some political commentators predicted that the ANC might lose its outright majority in provinces such as Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal, and therefore be forced to form coalitions with opposition parties. But based on early results, the ANC will likely avoid such an eventuality, Mbete said. Despite the likely decrease in its majority, ANC leaders have expressed positivity about the vote count so far, while EFF spokesperson Mbuyiseni Ndlozi told reporters: What is definitive is that we are part of the race. The EFF is represented in every province. You can already see that our growth is right on the way. DA spokesperson Solly Malatsi said the party was concerned about claims of double voting and an apparent shortage of ballot papers at some voting stations. In a press release issued late on Wednesday night, hours after the polls had closed, the IEC assured voters of the integrity of the elections. Election officials interviewed by Al Jazeera said that by and large things had run smoothly. Buntu Matole, 31, said he was loyal to the ANC and backed the party in the ballot [Christopher Clark/Al Jazeera] We can have an electoral body that is credible and really one of the best at what it does in the world and we can have people having voted multiple times and we can have a system for being able to check that and we can have an election where there were some places where scanners didnt work properly. All of those things can be true at the same time, said Mbete of widespread criticism of the IEC on social media on Wednesday. In the sprawling Cape Town township of Khayelitsha, which experienced various glitches and interruptions at certain voting stations due to protest activity, Buntu Matole, 31, a social entrepreneur, said he thought the process had been handled well overall. Matole voted ANC, telling Al Jazeera in a phone call that he was a loyal citizen and loyal to his political party. Salva Kiir says delay is needed since government has been unable to disarm, house, train or integrate various forces. South Sudan President Salva Kiir has said the formation of a unity government should be delayed by at least a year, despite a May 12 deadline in a September peace agreement that ended the civil war. Kiir said the government had been unable to disarm, house, train and integrate the countrys various forces since the deal had been signed, and rejected a suggestion by former rebel leader Riek Machar that the new government be formed in six months. He said the postponement came at Machars request, but said the rainy season would make it hard to accomplish the integration of their forces within six months. Instead of six months, let us call for one year, because from May up to November, there will be rain still and you cannot move with a car to any location, Kiir said in his speech. We can form the government by April or May. Machar called for a six-month delay during a meeting with Pope Francis last month. Around 400,000 people died during South Sudans five-year civil war, which broke out in 2013 between forces loyal to Machar then vice president and Kiir. The September agreement followed a string of failed peace deals, but has largely held so far, despite both parties missing key deadlines. The cash-strapped government has tried to use the breathing space to boost oil production, its only significant source of revenue. Little progress has been made on state boundaries or the integration of government and rebel forces. On Wednesday, Kiir also accused Machars group of seeking new recruits, breaking the peace agreement. Kiir suggested he could do the same. He is now recruiting and this recruitment is prohibited in the agreement and if it is a matter of recruitment, it does not cost me much to also recruit. Machars military spokesman denied the recruiting accusation, saying they only were sending envoys to communities to discuss the peace deal. Our chief of general staff and his commanders are for peace not war, Lam Paul Gabriel, the acting spokesman for Machars rebels, said by phone from Addis Ababa on Wednesday. Peace dissemination is what is being misunderstood as recruitment. Sporadic attacks on Muslim houses and shops have increased those fears. More than two weeks since Sri Lankan churches and hotels were bombed, some of its Muslim communities say they feel under siege as their businesses and homes come under sporadic attack. But an independent organisation, the Human Rights Commission, is working on stemming communal violence while religious heads have met to appeal for calm. Al Jazeeras Minelle Fernandez is in Kalmunai in eastern Sri Lanka and explains why one community is finding this difficult. Standoff at Venezuelan embassy in US mirrors tensions in Caracas over political legitimacy. Activists are refusing to leave the Venezuelan embassy in Washington, DC which they have been occupying since President Nicolas Maduros diplomats were expelled last month. The protesters say the US is trying to engineer a coup against Maduro. That is an accusation that supporters of opposition leader Juan Guaido strongly reject. They say Maduros 2018 election victory is in dispute. The Venezuelan counterprotesters have surrounded the embassy, trying to pressure those barricaded inside to leave. Al Jazeeras Heidi Zhou-Castro reports from Washington, DC. Yesterday, US President Donald Trump signed a decree imposing sanctions on the production of metals in Iran, in order to deprive Iran of the income from the export of products related to the production of iron, steel, aluminum and copper, which "can be used to spread weapons of mass destruction, finance terrorist groups, for aggressive actions in the region and military expansion". As Guardian writes in the article Iran nuclear deal: what has Tehran said and what happens next?, the same day Iran has suspended commitments it made under the terms of the 2015 nuclear deal, which lifted sanctions on the country in exchange for limits on Tehrans nuclear programme. The deal was reached after years of negotiations. Hassan Rouhani, president of Iran, said Tehran would hang on to its stocks of excess enriched uranium and heavy water instead of exporting them. He threatened to resume enriching uranium above a limit set out in the deal unless there was progress on sanctions relief. What did the deal say about these commitments? The 2015 deal, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, JCPOA, set out a 3.67% limit for uranium enrichment (enough to fuel a commercial nuclear power plant) and barred Iran from accumulating stocks of more than 300kg of low-enriched uranium and 130 tonnes of heavy water, a coolant used in nuclear reactors. In theory, uranium enriched to much higher levels of purity than Irans current stocks could be used as the fissile core of a nuclear weapon, while heavy water is a source of plutonium, which can be used to produce a warhead. Why has Iran done this now? Iran is suffering under crippling sanctions restored by the US after Donald Trump withdrew from the nuclear deal last year. The Iranian rial, which traded at 32,000 to $1 at the time of the accord, traded on Wednesday at 153,500. Tehran rightly said the deal had been premised on ending Irans economic isolation in exchange for strict and verified limitations on its nuclear activities. By re-imposing sanctions with extraterritorial effects the US has scared companies and banks around the world into reducing, ceasing or not starting business with Iranian counterparts. The US last week also removed waivers on nuclear co-operation with Iran, including the shipment abroad of excess supplies, perversely making it much harder for Iran to keep to the stockpile limits. The economic crisis has increased internal pressure on Rouhani, a relative moderate within Irans Shia theocracy, to take some sort of counter action. His policy of waiting for Trump to be succeeded by a nuclear deal-friendly Democrat as US president in 18 months time was failing, and he will hope that he is now shielded from criticism from hardliners who have long maintained that Iran gave up too much in the nuclear deal. The Iranians felt they had given the Europeans ample time to come up with a mechanism that would foster trade between the EU and Iran immunised from the threat of American sanctions. Does this spell the end of the agreement? Not yet. The Iranians have set out a timetable for a staged withdrawal from the agreement dependent upon the actions of the EU. This surgery is to save the [deal] not destroy it, Rouhani said. He has also said the actions are justifiable under articles of the deal which set out the countermeasures party could take if another party was clearly in breach of their obligations. Iran has not done anything to restrict UN inspection of its compliance or to increase research on advanced centrifuges two steps that might be seen as EU red lines. What will the Americans do? The White House will be delighted that its maximum pressure campaign has finally made the Iranians crack. The US will use this as a lever to prise the EU away from the agreement, or at least to demand that the EU impose sanctions of its own. Speculation mounts that some Washington figures, such as John Bolton, the national security adviser, is trying to assemble a case for war with Tehran as he did against Iraq in 2002. If there is a single over-riding American foreign policy at present it is hostility to Iran. Where does the EU stand? Europe collectively has heavily invested in diplomacy with Iran and regards the nuclear deal as the high-water mark of multilateralism. Washingtons European allies say Trumps repudiation of the deal weakens the pragmatic wing of Irans leadership and plays into the hands of hardliners. It means the public in Iran see no economic benefits from Rouhanis efforts to open the country. The EU has long had doubts about Tehrans missile programme, and activities in Lebanon, Iraq and Yemen, but they are viewed separately from the nuclear agreement. Is there a resolution? It is not evident. Europe has been served notice by Tehran that it must deliver on its commitments to help the Iranian economy, but given the dollar-dominated global economy EU banks and firms are never going to choose trading with Iran over trading with the US, which is the choice the US treasury is placing before them. The French may make calls for greater European economic sovereignty, but changing the dollars dominance is a work of two decades and not two months, the time-frame set by Rouhani. Assad government forces take the entire town of Qalaat al-Madiq in northwest Syria during rapid offensive in Idlib. Government forces captured the town of Qalaat al-Madiq in northwest Syria, some residents and a war monitor said on Thursday, as they push into the biggest remaining rebel territory. Syrian government forces, backed by Russian air power, launched ground operations this week against the southern flank of the rebel zone consisting of Idlib and parts of adjacent provinces. The area is nominally protected by a Russian-Turkish deal agreed last year to avert a major new battle that could lead to hundreds of thousands of people fleeing the area. 190507123020922 Qalaat al-Madiq was the rebel town closest to the Russian Hmeimim airbase at Latakia, which fighters have previously targeted with rocket fire. It was also the entry point to rebel territory for many fighters and civilians who were evacuated from territory captured by the army under surrender deals negotiated with President Bashar al-Assads government over recent years. Humanitarian catastrophe Local residents said Syrian government forces captured Qalaat al-Madiq and two nearby villages Tal Hawash and Al-Karkat. Idlib-based activist Alaa Moadamani confirmed the villages capture. The head of the UN Commission of Inquiry on Syria, Paulo Pinheiro, warned that an all-out conflict in the last major rebel stronghold in Idlib province could generate an unimaginable human rights and humanitarian catastrophe. Pinheiro told a news conference on Thursday that the current aerial and ground offensive by the Syrian government and its allies is a serious escalation. The Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights war monitor group said rebels had withdrawn after being nearly encircled by the army. The United Nations said the fighting has pushed 150,000 civilians from their homes, raising concerns of a new humanitarian crisis in northwest Syria. Some 13 health facilities have been hit in the bombing, the US-based Union of Medical Care and Relief Organizations, which funds some hospitals in the area, said on Wednesday. Thursdays push came a day after Syrian troops took the nearby village of Kfar Nabudah, which activists called Idlibs first line of defence. Nearly 150,000 Syrians are fleeing fierce bombardment in north-west Syria as Russian-backed government-led attacks intensify. pic.twitter.com/DIOupnqqxt Al Jazeera English (@AJEnglish) May 9, 2019 Living between trees The latest offensive, which began April 30, has raised fears of a wider government push on Idlib, which is home to about three million people, many of them displaced from elsewhere in Syria. The government appears to be trying to secure access to a major highway that cuts through the rebel-held enclave. The highway was to reopen before the end of 2018, following the ceasefire agreement between Russia and Turkey, but it remains closed. Rasheed al-Ahmed, a pharmacist from Kfar Nabudah, said all the villages residents fled to the north, settling in camps along the border with Turkey. He said the government troops, aided by Russian forces, entered the village in droves with aircraft overhead. Neighbouring villages were also emptied, he said, amid the fast-moving offensive. People are living between trees and in farms, Ahmed said, adding he secured his family a place in Atmeh near the border. It is a deplorable situation. The activist-operated Thiqa news agency filmed a group of civilians living between olive trees where they spread out rugs to sleep and sit on. The civilians hung their few belongings in plastic bags on the tree branches. Moadamani, the Idlib-based activist, said people are terrified as more flee their homes, adding many who fled were sleeping in their cars. A deadly Taliban attack on a United State-based aid group in the Afghan capital has raised concerns among other relief organisations that they could also be targeted. Authorities said Wednesdays assault on Counterpart International in Kabul killed at least nine people as fighters set off a huge explosion and battled security forces for over six hours. Anti-poverty group CARE, which has its offices close to Counterpart International, said three of its workers a driver, watchman and a technical adviser were killed in the blast. 190503105048783 This attack reflects the increasing dangers of humanitarian work in conflict-affected countries such as Afghanistan and the unfortunate daily reality of violence for many Afghan families, CARE said in a statement. At least 20 civilians were wounded in the attack, which saw several Taliban gunmen storm the Counterpoint compound after the blast. They were all killed by Afghan commandos. The blast radius extended hundreds of metres in all directions, blowing out windows in nearby homes and businesses. Dozens of workers could be seen sweeping debris and broken glass from streets in the popular Shahr-e-Naw neighbourhood in central Kabul, which is home to many shops, restaurants and hotels. Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid on Thursday said the group targeted Counterpart International because it promoted western culture, including encouraging the mixing of the genders, which is a taboo for the armed group. Mujahid claimed the NGO was also training Afghan security forces, without elaborating on the allegation. The attack came as the Taliban holds peace talks with the US in Qatar. 190508203445898 According to the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, 30 aid workers were killed last year in Afghanistan, one of the most dangerous countries for humanitarian groups. Afghanistan was once a hub of foreign aid but deteriorating security has seen international groups downgrade their presence, making it even more difficult to deliver crucial help to the war-torn countrys most vulnerable citizens. Several aid groups, including Save the Children, have been targeted, forcing them to suspend their operations. Taliban spokesperson says talks were positive as sides wrap up latest round of talks in Qatari capital. United States and Taliban negotiators have wrapped up their sixth round of peace talks with some progress made on a draft agreement for when foreign troops might withdraw from Afghanistan, a spokesperson for the armed group has said. Suhail Shaheen, the Talibans political spokesman in the Qatari capital, Doha, said in a tweet on Thursday that positive and constructive negotiations were held during the talks, adding that both sides would meet again for another round of discussions. Both sides listened to each other with care and patience, Shaheen said. The chief US envoy, Zalmay Khalilzad, involved in the negotiations said talks with the Taliban on ending Afghanistans war are making steady but slow progress, while signaling growing frustration with relentless armed violence. Negotiations stutter over troop withdrawal About 17,000 foreign troops, including a contingent of some 14,000 US soldiers, are based in Afghanistan as part of a US-led NATO mission to train, assist and advise Afghan forces. Some US forces also carry out counterterrorism operations. The US has said it will not agree to any withdrawal of troops as part of an eventual peace deal until the Taliban put in place security guarantees, implement a ceasefire and sign off on other commitments including an intra-Afghan dialogue with the Kabul government and other Afghan representatives. But the Taliban insists it will not do any of these things until the US announces a withdrawal timeline, meanwhile, it refuses to negotiate with Kabul, calling the Afghan government a puppet of the West. 190312171834928 Diplomatic efforts to end the USs longest-running conflict intensified last year after the appointment of the Afghan-born Khalilzad to lead direct talks with the Taliban, which has been running an armed rebellion since it was dislodged from power in 2001 during a US-led invasion of Afghanistan. During the latest round of talks, which came nearly two months after an earlier bout of 16-day long discussions, violent attacks in Afghanistan continued. At the end of a large peace summit in Kabul last week, Afghan President Ashraf Ghani offered the Taliban a ceasefire to begin on the first day of Ramadan, but the group refused. On Wednesday, a Taliban suicide bomber and four gunmen attacked the Kabul office of Counterpart International, a non-profit group working with marginalised people in Afghanistan, killing nine people and wounding at least 20 others. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Thursday condemned the attack as a senseless assault. We extend our condolences to the families of the deceased and our wishes for a fast recovery to those wounded, and call again for the Taliban to stop attacking civilians intentionally, he said in a statement. Army-backed party needs only a small number of allies to get enough votes to allow coup leader Prayuth cling to power. Thailands Election Commission has announced the long-delayed results of the March 24 general election, which gave no party with an absolute majority but indicated that the army-backed party needs only a small number of allies to get enough votes to allow coup leader Prayuth Chan-ocha to cling to power. The results, which were released late on Wednesday, were immediately challenged by the rivals of the countrys military government. They showed the military-government-linked Palang Pracharat party having 115 seats in the lower house, only 11 votes shy of a majority in the combined parliament, thanks to 250 military-appointed senators. The results were announced more than a month after the vote, the first election since the military seized power in a 2014 coup. It was held under new rules crafted by the generals, including the creation of appointed senators who can vote for prime minister. Palang Pracharat party leader Uttama Savanayana said on Facebook after the results that it is ready to work and move forward with our policies we promised to the people. Despite the booked-in advantage, the lower house results leave the party needing a little help from coalition partners. The most obvious candidates are Bhumjaitai and the Democrat Party, both of which have more than 50 lower house seats. Officials from both the parties said on Wednesday they have yet to reach a decision. The party is split, longtime Democrat official Sirichok Sopha told AFP news agency. The election was widely seen as a choice between military government-backed rule and those aligned with billionaire ex-Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. A whopping 27 parties will have seats when parliament convenes within 15 days. Wednesdays results are likely to set off horsetrading, negotiations and challenges. The Thaksin-linked Pheu Thai party won the most lower house seats with 136 posing a legitimacy crisis for Prayuth should he become prime minister. Pheu Thai threatened to take legal action over the formula used to calculate seats, calling the Election Commissions action an intentional abuse of the law and against the constitution. It is part of a lower house coalition with six other parties, including upstart newcomer Future Forward headed by telegenic billionaire Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit, who led the youth-oriented force to third place in the popular vote and 80 seats. But Thanathorn has been hounded by legal complaints that the rising star has blasted as political sabotage. He said in a press conference on Wednesday that Future Forward was ready to talk to any party that does not support Prayuth as a prime minister in order for our democracy to move forward. The Election Commission has come under fire for wildly inaccurate initial counts, 2.1 million invalidated ballots, and the staggered release of full results. It has been flooded with complaints since the election, and recounts and new voting sessions were held in a handful of polling stations. Even if Prayuth clinches the prime ministers post, Palang Pracharat may not cobble together enough lower house seats to ram through legislation. That means a stalemate in terms of making any policy, said political scientist Napisa Waitoolkiat of Naresuan University. Only a third of longest rivers flow freely, with dams, reservoirs and power projects damaging biodiversity, study says. Almost two-thirds of Earths longest rivers have been degraded by dams, reservoirs or other man-made constructions, severely damaging some of the most important ecosystems on the planet, researchers say. Using the latest satellite data and computer-modelling software, an international team looked at the connectivity of 12 million kilometres of rivers worldwide, providing the first global assessment of human impact on the planets waterways. They found that of the 91 rivers longer than 1,000km in length, just 21 retained a direct connection between source and sea. 190303100950774 Just a little over a third (37 percent) of the 242 longest rivers had retained their free flow, something experts said was having a profound effect on Earths biodiversity. The worlds rivers form an intricate network with vital links to land, groundwater and the atmosphere, said lead author Gunther Grill of McGill Universitys Department of Geography. Free-flowing rivers are important for humans and the environment alike, yet economic development around the world is making them increasingly rare. Most of the remaining free-flowing rivers were confined to remote parts of the Arctic, the Amazon and the Congo basins, the study found. State of nature This week, the United Nations panel on biodiversity released a summary of its devastating assessment on the state of nature. The underlying report, which will be made public in the coming weeks, found that 50 percent of rivers manifest severe impacts of degradation from human activity. Wednesdays study, published in the journal Nature, laid bare in intricate detail just how drastically man-made activity is impacting our waterways. It estimated a total of 60,000 large dams at least 15 metres tall were blocking rivers, of a total of 2.8 million worldwide. The blocking or damming of rivers disrupts the flow of nutrients vital to replace those lost through agriculture, and diminishes the numbers of river-born species that can complete their life-cycles. It also lessens the sediment flows river deltas provide coastal regions with, which currently help to protect millions of people against sea level rises. Less than a quarter of free-flowing rivers now connect to oceans, depriving estuary environments from vital nutrients and sediments. The team warned that dams had already led to a significant fall in the numbers of river fish, which provide nearly all the animal protein eaten by close to 160 million people. A separate assessment last year from conservation group WWF said freshwater species had experienced the most pronounced decline of all vertebrates over the past century, falling on average 83 percent since 1970. The study also identified more than 3,700 hydropower projects either planned or currently under construction, including some on rivers offering vital life support for the human populations who live along them. Cleaner power While hydroelectric power sources are significantly cleaner in terms of emissions than oil, gas or coal, the team stressed that mega-power projects involving dams and reservoirs could have unforeseen negative effects. Hydropower certainly has more complex environmental impacts than the often-cited positive effects of avoiding fossil fuels, Bernhard Lehner, a professor at McGill, told AFP news agency. While hydropower inevitably has a role to play countries should focus on sustainable options like solar and wind which can have less detrimental impacts on rivers and the communities, cities and biodiversity that rely on them. The health of Earths rivers will also be impacted as climate change accelerates, affecting flow patterns and water quality, as well as bringing more invasive species, the authors said. Togos parliament has approved a constitutional change permitting long-standing President Faure Gnassingbe to potentially stay in office until 2030, despite widespread protests calling for the end of his familys decades-long grip on power. The amendment caps the presidential mandate to two five-year terms but does not apply retrospectively, meaning Gnassingbe can stand for the next two elections, in 2020 and 2025, despite having already served three terms since succeeding his late father 14 years ago. The president of the republic is elected by universal suffrage for a term of five years, renewable once, the new text of the Constitution read, which also made the presidential election a two-round race. The amendment was signed off on by all 90 legislators present on Wednesday, surpassing the required four-fifths approval by parliament to make such changes. One other legislator was absent. Another change passed by the National Assembly guaranteed immunity for life to all former presidents, who the new constitutional terms said cannot be prosecuted, arrested, detained, or tried for acts committed during their presidential term. Opposition shocked Gnassingbes Union for the Republic party holds two-thirds of the seats in parliament. The main opposition boycotted legislative elections in December, in part because of the dispute over term limits, leaving them without seats in parliament and powerless to vote against the amendments. Legislators also changed the rules for their own mandate, meaning they can now hold their seats for two terms of six years each. Before, they had a mandate of five years but with an unlimited number of terms. Brigitte Adjamagbo-Johnson, coordinator of the opposition coalition, said she was shocked by the changes. He (Gnassingbe) has showed the Togolese people that the only thing that worries him is to stay in power, she told reporters on Thursday in the capital, Lome. Deadly clashes erupted over the proposed constitutional changes in 2017 after security forces cracked down on demonstrators calling for Gnassingbes resignation echoing a mass movement against his first appointment in 2005 during which at least 500 people were killed. Opponents of the president, whose father seized power in a 1967 coup, have sought term limits and other constitutional reforms since then to align the former French colony with most of its West African neighbours. Pelosi says she isnt rushing into the House vote on holding Attorney General Barr in contempt over the Mueller report. US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said on Thursday that the House of Representatives is not rushing into a vote on holding Attorney General William Barr in contempt of Congress for not providing Special Counsel Robert Muellers full report on his Russia investigation. The top Democrat told reporters that she will follow a methodical process to the constitutional crisis over President Donald Trumps resistance to congressional investigation. We wont go any faster than the facts take us or any slower than the facts take us, she said. Pelosi spoke at her weekly news conference a day after the Democrat-led House Judiciary Committee approved a contempt citation against Barr for failing to comply with a subpoena for the full report and underlying evidence. Judiciary Chairman Jerrold Nadler said the House will vote on the contempt citation soon, but said the date was still to be determined. On Wednesday, he declared the United States faced a constitutional crisis. Speaking to reporters, Pelosi agreed, saying the administration has decided that theyre not going to honour their oath of office. But Pelosi said she was waiting for other developments, including whether Mueller testifies to Nadlers committee. The step-by-step approach has been Pelosis touchstone for the escalating standoff between the two branches of government in the aftermath of Muellers report. By rebuffing Congress, she said, the White House was essentially committing the kind of obstruction of justice that Mueller had investigated in his report. The president is almost self-impeaching, she said, though, she continued to tamp down talk of impeachment. 190508202237142 Just hours before Wednesdays House panel vote on contempt, Trump invoked the principle of executive privilege for the first time, a claim Democrats have called nonsense. The chairman of another House committee, the intelligence panels Adam Schiff, issued his own subpoena to the Justice Department for the full Mueller report late on Wednesday. The Justice Department has said it was disappointing that members of Congress have chosen to engage in such inappropriate political theatrics. The presidents decision to invoke executive privilege was weeks in the making, the next inevitable escalation between the White House and Congress over a number of probes. The White House has rejected all efforts to probe Trumps business dealings or tax returns as well as the West Wings security clearance procedure. What happens next? If the contempt resolution is approved by the full House, where the Democrats hold a solid majority, it would almost certainly move to an unusual, and potentially protracted, multipronged court battle with the Trump administration. 190425185711995 Enforcement of congressional subpoenas and contempt citations in the modern era is done through litigation, initially in the US District Court for the District of Columbia, or potentially on an accelerated basis the DC Circuit Court of Appeals. If Trump fights the effort, as he has said he would, the matter could end up in the US Supreme Court. House leaders are weighing their options and assessing the timing of going to court, House Oversight Committee Chairman Elijah Cummings told Al Jazeera. The House would likely have to hire an outside litigation firm with a strong appellate practice that could handle the case. House leaders have not yet taken that step but they appear headed there. We are going to try to litigate this in an expedited fashion. We are not going to allow the president and administration to stonewall sufficiently to run out the clock so they can avoid accountability and avoid us getting to the full truth of this case, Representative David Cicilline, a Democrat, told reporters on Wednesday. Republicans point to the extended time it took to gain compliance through federal courts of their demand former Attorney General Eric Holder turn over documents related to his role in the Fast and Furious gun-walking scandal. It was two years, and two months after the House voted to hold Holder in contempt in 2012 before a federal judge ordered that he disclose the documents Republicans sought. Legal experts said a confrontation between the Trump administration and the House over access to Muellers grand jury materials and the series of demands by House committees Trump has rebuffed would likely be handled more quickly. Courts are quite capable of moving with great speed as they did in the Nixon tapes case and the case of Trumans steel seizure, and the matter could reach the US Supreme Court very quickly. Lawrence Tribe, a Harvard constitutional law professor, told Al Jazeera in April as the legal battle between the House and Trump began to take shape. The Nixon tapes case was a Watergate-era controversy in which then-President Richard Nixon sought to claim executive privilege over tapes of his Oval Office conversations. The Supreme Court ruled within three weeks of oral argument that the public interest in transparency outweighed Nixons confidentiality concerns. 190426171654736 We have a number of tools available to us to try to compel compliance but as people see the president and members of his administration continuing his effort to obstruct the investigation, to impede the fact-finding process, to prevent us from getting to the truth, the sentiment that this is unacceptable continues to grow, Cicilline said. Growing calls for Mueller to testify As the confrontation between Democrats and the Trump administration intensifies, there are growing calls for Mueller to testify before House and Senate panels. The House Judiciary Committee is in talks for Mueller himself to appear May 15, but there is no agreement yet, and Trump has previously said Mueller should not testify. On Thursday, however, he said he will leave the decision to Barr. Senator Dianne Feinstein and other Democratic members of the Senate Judiciary Committee issued a letter to committee chairman Senator Lindsey Graham, a Republican, on Wednesday asking that Mueller be brought before the committee to testify. The Mueller report is a seminal document that caps the special counsels nearly two-year investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election, the senators wrote. However, as comprehensive as the report is, its clear there are many outstanding questions that remain unanswered. The letter included a list of 60 questions Democrats want to ask Mueller. Areas of inquiry the Democrats wish to pursue include: offers of assistance by Russia to the Trump campaign, campaign chairman Paul Manaforts sharing of polling data with a Russian operative, Trump campaign efforts to benefit from Russian hacking and WikiLeaks release of stolen documents, efforts to establish back channel communications with Russia, and Trumps personal and business ties including the Trump Tower Moscow project. 190419174453875 We believe Robert Mueller would be best-suited to answer these and other questions, the letter said. Barr last month released a 448-page redacted version of Muellers report on his 22-month investigation into Russian election meddling in the 2016 presidential election. The redacted Mueller report details extensive contacts between Trumps 2016 campaign and Moscow as well as the campaigns expectation of benefiting from Russias actions. It did not establish that the Trump campaign conspired with Russian operatives. The investigation did, however, examine multiple acts by the president that were capable of exerting undue influence over law enforcement investigations. Mueller did not conclude that Trump committed obstruction of justice, but did not exonerate him either. Barr and Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein subsequently concluded that Trump did not break the law. The Justice Department has made a less redacted version available for House and Senate leaders and some committee heads, but the Democrats have said that is not enough and have so far declined to read it. With additional reporting by William Roberts in Washington, DC. Lucas Moura scores a hat-trick against Ajax, including the winner deep into injury time, to set up Liverpool showdown. Lucas Moura scored a stoppage-time winner to complete a hat-trick and seal a sensational 3-2 comeback win for Tottenham Hotspur to take them past Ajax Amsterdam on the away goals rule into the Champions League final on Wednesday. Tottenham looked down and out at half-time after skipper Matthijs de Ligts fifth-minute header and a superb 35th-minute effort by Hakim Ziyech put Ajax in complete command of the tie having won the first leg 1-0 in London last week. But 24 hours after Liverpools miracle comeback to beat Barcelona 4-3 on aggregate, Tottenham produced their own heroics to reach their first European Cup final. The celebratory mood in the jam-packed Johan Cruyff Arena turned to one of nailbiting tension after Brazilian Moura scored twice in four minutes early in the second half to put Spurs within a goal of going through. Ziyech hit the post for Ajax who appeared to have weathered the storm but Moura struck past Andre Onana to flatten the Ajax players and send the away fans into delirium. Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino and his players celebrate [Matthew Childs/Reuters] Tottenham, playing in their first European Cup semi-final in 57 years, arrived in Amsterdam on a run of woeful form having suffered three successive defeats in all competitions. Ajax, by contrast, were buoyant after winning the Dutch Cup final at the weekend, and they began on the front foot with Dusan Tadic forcing a flying save from Hugo Lloris. When the resulting corner came, Tottenhams marking was non-existent as de Ligt glanced his header home. It did not change the basic equation for Tottenham who knew they needed to score twice and Mauricio Pochettinos side, so disappointing last week, responded in a spirited fashion. Son Heung-min, back after missing the first leg because of suspension, deceived keeper Onana with a cross that hit the post and Son then forced another save from a flowing move. But Ajax were cool, calm and collected and bided their time before striking again in devastating fashion. Tadic, who moments earlier had dragged a shot just wide, was released down the left and he cut the ball back perfectly for Ziyech to whip a left-footed shot inside the far post. Tottenham sent on veteran striker Fernando Llorente for midfielder Victor Wanyama for the start of the second half and pushed Ajax back. Dele Alli was denied by Onana but Tottenham grabbed a lifeline soon after when a rapid counterattack ended with Moura converting in style after sprinting through to meet Allis pass in the 55th minute. An Ajax fan in Amsterdam looks dejected after the match [Pascal Rossignol/Reuters] Four minutes later, the impossible began to look possible as Onana saved brilliantly from Llorente but Ajax failed to clear the ball and Moura fired through a crowd. In a rip-roaring finale played out in nerve-shredding tension, Ziyech almost restored Ajaxs lead when his slow shot thudded against the post while a desperate lunging block by de Lijt denied Moura. When former Ajax defender Jan Vertonghen headed against the crossbar late on it seemed Tottenham would fall just short, as they did 57 years ago in their only other European Cup semi-final, but there was one final twist. A high ball pumped forward was flicked to Moura by Alli and the Brazilians first-time shot found the corner. While Tottenham celebrated an unlikely recovery, Ajaxs journey that began in the second qualifying round in July, ended in abject misery and disbelief. Replacing bone marrow can promote the growth of healthy cells and fight cancer. For many children, a transplant is their only hope, but it is fading for Venezuelans. The government says it cannot pay for treatments because of US sanctions. The opposition blames inefficiency and a lack of resources. We spoke to a group of about 30 children needing bone marrow transplants. Time has just run out for one of them. Al Jazeeras Teresa Bo reports. The deputy leader of the opposition-dominated National Assembly has been arrested by intelligence agents. Venezuelan agents have detained a top aide of opposition leader Juan Guaido, using a tow truck to drag his vehicle away with him inside, in the first major detention since a failed attempt last week to spark a military uprising to bring down President Nicolas Maduros government. Edgar Zambrano, vice president of the opposition-controlled National Assembly, said on Twitter at about 6.40pm local time on Wednesday (22:40 GMT) that a unit from the SEBIN intelligence agency had surrounded his vehicle outside the headquarters of his Democratic Action party in the capital, Caracas. We were surprised by the SEBIN, and after refusing to let us leave our vehicle, they used a tow truck to forcibly transfer us directly to the (SEBIN headquarters) Helicoide, he said. Venezuelas pro-Maduro Constituent Assembly agreed on Tuesday to strip Zambrano and six other legislators of their parliamentary immunity to allow their future prosecution. The opposition does not recognise the assemblys decisions. The Supreme Court had earlier accused those legislators of conspiracy, rebellion and treason, and accused another three opposition politicians of the same crimes on Wednesday. The opposition says Maduro has stacked the court with his own supporters. People outside the Democratic Action party headquarters in Caracas [Rodrigo Abd/AP Photo] On April 30, Guaido tried to set off a military uprising to overthrow Maduro, but there were no widespread defections among soldiers and the plan fizzled out. Maduro denounced it as a coup attempt. 190123205835912 One of the principal conspirators of the coup has just been arrested, Diosdado Cabello, head of the Constituent Assembly, said in comments broadcast on state television. They will have to pay before the courts for the failed coup that they attempted, he said. For his part, Guaido said on Twitter: The regime has kidnapped the first vice president. The head of the Organization of American States, Luis Almagro, said: We demand the SEBIN stop the intimidation, respect the legislators parliamentary immunities, and immediately release Edgar Zambrano. In January, Guaido invoked Venezuelas constitution to declare himself interim president, saying Maduros 2018 re-election was illegitimate. The United States and most other Western nations have recognised Guaido as Venezuelas legitimate leader. He has said he does not recognise decisions emanating from the Maduro government, including the Constituent Assembly, which is controlled by the ruling Socialist Party. 190430101534846 The Constituent Assembly removed Guaidos parliamentary immunity in early April. Authorities have not tried to arrest him since then, but Maduro has said he will face justice. US President Donald Trumps administration has threatened Maduros government with a harsh response should it ever detain Guaido. What we have seen so far is a government that has been extremely careful in these past three months when dealing with the opposition, especially with Guaido because the US has said that it will take it very seriously any attempts to damage his physical integrity, Al Jazeeras Teresa Bo, reporting from Caracas, said. But what we know so far is that 15 lawmakers were stripped of their immunity, and three of them have already been detained. Earlier on Wednesday, the Supreme Courts head, Maikel Moreno, rebuffed the US governments threats to sanction his courts members if they did not reject Maduros government and Guaido. The US Treasury Department imposed sanctions on Moreno and the seven principal members of the courts constitutional chamber in 2017 for rulings that usurped the authority of the National Assembly. US Vice President Mike Pence said on Tuesday the Trump administration would soon sanction the 25 remaining members of the court. Pence said the US was lifting economic sanctions on a former Venezuelan general who turned against Maduro in order to encourage other Maduro allies to follow suit. In the near future, the first Fund for Animal Welfare will be opened in Ingushetia, the head of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment of the region, Magomed Babkhoev said. In Ingushetia, there is an acute issue of creating an animal protection fund, a special aviary, or a nursery, the minister noted, Yeto Kavkaz reports. Magomed Babkhoev has already discussed this initiative with local volunteers who have experience in nursing animals and finding new owners for them. In an opinion piece, Chris Hughes writes that CEO Mark Zuckerberg has sacrificed security and civility for clicks. Facebook cofounder and former Mark Zuckerberg roommate Chris Hughes has called for the break-up of the social network in an opinion piece in the New York Times. We are a nation with a tradition of reining in monopolies, no matter how well intentioned the leaders of these companies may be. Marks power is unprecedented and un-American, Hughes wrote on Thursday. Facebook owns the largest social network, with more than two billion users across the world. It also owns WhatsApp, Messenger and Instagram, each used by more than one billion people. Hughes co-founded Facebook in 2004 at Harvard with the companys Chief Executive Officer Zuckerberg and Dustin Moskovitz. He quit Facebook in 2007 and later said in a LinkedIn post that he had made half a billion dollars for his three years of work. Its been 15 years since I co-founded Facebook at Harvard, and I havent worked at the company in a decade. But I feel a sense of anger and responsibility, said Hughes, who left Facebook to work as an online strategist for Barack Obama during the 2008 presidential campaign. He said he liquidated his Facebook shares in 2012, the year he became publisher of The New Republic. Facebook did not immediately respond to requests for comment. 181117080647969 In one of a number of security and privacy scandals to hit the company, Facebook is accused of inappropriately sharing 87 million users information with the now-defunct British political consulting firm Cambridge Analytica. Civility for clicks Hughes said he last met with Zuckerberg in the summer of 2017, several months before the Cambridge Analytica scandal broke. Mark is a good, kind person. But Im angry that his focus on growth led him to sacrifice security and civility for clicks, Hughes said. And Im worried that Mark has surrounded himself with a team that reinforces his beliefs instead of challenging them. Hughes said Facebook is a monopoly and should be forced to spin off WhatsApp and Instagram. He says future acquisitions should be banned for several years. Hughes is not alone in asking for the break-up of Facebook. Some legislators have called for federal privacy regulation and anti-trust action to break up big tech companies. Democratic presidential candidate Senator Elizabeth Warren in March vowed to disband Facebook, Amazon.com Inc, and Alphabet Incs Google, if elected US president, to promote competition in the tech sector. Court found 14 people intended to take over parliament, assassinate PM to set up pro-Russia, anti-NATO leadership. A Montenegro court has sentenced 14 people including two Russian military intelligence officers, two Montenegrin opposition leaders, nine Serbian citizens and another Montenegrin to up to 15 years in prison after they were found guilty of attempting to overthrow the Montenegrin government in 2016. In a first instance court ruling, Russian agents Eduard Shishmakov and Vladimir Popov, were sentenced in absentia to 15 and 12 years respectively, convicted of attempted terrorism and creating a criminal organisation. Two leading ethnic Serb opposition politicians of the Montenegrin Democratic Front, Andrija Mandic and Milan Knezevic, were sentenced to five years each. Bratislav Dikic, the former commander of a Serbian police unit, the Gendarmerie was also sentenced to eight years in prison. The court found the group intended to take over parliament on election day on October 16, 2016 and assassinate then-Prime Minister Milo Djukanovic in order to set up a pro-Russia, anti-NATO leadership. However Montenegros police successfully thwarted the attempt, after being tipped-off by Western spy organisations. Djukanovic has led the country for three decades either as prime minister or president and has set the country on a Euro-Atlantic course. Montenegro subsequently joined NATO in June 2017, becoming its 29th member, despite strong opposition from Russia, which views the country as an historic Orthodox Christian, Slav ally. Moscow has denied any involvement in the coup attempt, calling the allegations absurd. The prosecution claimed that Russian state bodies had played a key role in the plot. According to the ruling, the Russians said to be members of the Russian military secret service agency GRU coordinated the attempted coup from neighbouring Serbia. Chief judge Suzana Mugosa said the agents provided at least 200,000 euros ($224,596) for purchasing rifles and guns, Reuters news agency reported. The two Russian agents tried to change the electoral will and prevent Montenegro from joining NATO, Mugosa said, as reported by Reuters. Mugosa said that Mandic and Knezevic made several trips to Moscow on the eve of the election where its believed they received instructions from GRU operatives. Each member of the criminal organisation had a task and role that had been previously determined and the criminal organisation was ready to implement violence and intimidation, Mugosa said. Mandic and Knezevic vehemently rejected the verdict and said they will appeal. Addressing local media on Thursday, Mandic called out the Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic as well as Milorad Dodik, current chairman and Serb member of Bosnias tripartite presidency to break off communication with Djukanovic. Im inviting them not to support an enemy of the Serbian people in this region We expect solidarity and brotherly support, Mandic told local media. NATO expansion, a provocation The region of former Yugoslavia is a geopolitical front line between NATO and Russia. In the Balkans, the only countries that have not joined NATO are North Macedonia, Kosovo, Serbia and Bosnia. Kurt Bassuener, senior associate at Democratization Policy Council, a Berlin-based think-tank told Al Jazeera that the ruling, particularly the conviction of two Russian intelligence officers, underscores the level of engagement Moscow will undertake in its efforts to prevent further NATO enlargement in the region and also highlights the depth of polarisation in Montenegros political scene. Bassuener noted that Moscows disposition against NATO and later EU enlargement became clear after the invasion of Crimea and the inducement of war in eastern Ukraine in 2014. [Russian] Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrovs characterisation of the NATO aspirations of Montenegro, North Macedonia and Bosnia and Herzegovina as a provocation that year highlight this, Bassuener said. According to Vesko Garcevic, professor at Boston University, Russia will continue meddling in the Balkans. Its not a big deal for them. They have many local actors willing to cooperate. Its been historically present in the region, Garcevic told Al Jazeera. Since Montenegro is already a NATO member and North Macedonia is well on its way following its name change deal with Greece, many have noted that the front line is shifting to Bosnia, an easy target for Russia according to Garcevic. In Montenegro local actors were not able to come to power and change trajectory. In Bosnia and Herzegovina, with Dodik in and the EU, US in retreat, they are in control. Furthermore Kosovo is a good playground for them to enhance the influence and project power, Garcevic said. The US Department of Justice is digging into how hedge funds tap into research and set up their bets. Last month at the White House Correspondents' Dinner, association president Olivier Knox was brooding over the future of the free press after Donald Trump called some of the media "enemies of the people." Knox said that, a few days after Trump's remark, "I was driving my then-11-year-old son somewhere, probably soccer practice, when he burst into tears and asked me, 'Is Donald Trump going to put you in prison?'" Knox had a follow-up story about a family trip to Mexico and how his son "mused [that] if the president tried to keep me out of the country, at 'least Uncle Josh is a good lawyer and will get you home.'" As someone who's never been a parent, I've kept the rule to never offer opinions on how to raise children. But lately there are more and more examples of children in the grip of bizarre beliefs about reality that cause them real anxiety perhaps even terror. Am I out of line for thinking their parents may have something to do with this? Take Olivier Knox's son. According to his father, the boy's had two disturbing takes on things. The first is that America's president is going to put his father in prison, and the second is that while the family's abroad, the president might order that his father not be allowed back into the U.S. The thing is, even if Knox's son were a precocious consumer of the New York Times, CNN, and NPR, he still wouldn't have come across any stories about the president putting reporters in prison or banning them from re-entering the country, or even threatening to do so. Yet Knox's son was so overwrought about it that he burst into tears. I'm told that the usual parental thing with such outbursts is to comfort a distraught child with reassurances that what he fears is never going to happen. I don't think Knox mentioned how he responded. But since the cause of this boy's insecurities is almost certainly Knox's own wild exaggerations about being Trump's personal target, he was hardly in a position to contradict it. Instead, Knox filed the scene away for use in a speech about how Donald Trump's existence traumatizes children. But don't blame Trump for Master Knox's trauma. That was caused by whoever crammed his head full of such stupid ideas in the first place. The sick irony of Knox's anecdotes is the way he helped prove Trump's theory of the media. His son's tears were brought on by fake news. Last fall, after Brett Kavanaugh was confirmed to the Supreme Court, protester Alethea Torrellas Shapiro, with her two small daughters in tow, blindsided Kavanaugh supporter Sen. Bill Cassidy in the corridor. "Senator Cassidy," she demanded, "can you please apologize to my children for ruining their futures?" Cassidy replied to this quite skillfully but didn't say what she wanted to hear, so Shapiro called after him, "Shame on you for not believing women and for ruining my daughters' lives." Regardless of what message Shapiro was trying to send Cassidy, the message she gave her daughters that day was, "Because Brett Kavanaugh is on the Supreme Court, your lives and your futures are ruined." Then there are the children who live each day in the certain knowledge that climate change means they'll never live through their twenties. The youth-based Sunrise Movement describes its adherents as "ordinary young people who are scared about what the climate crisis means for the people and places we love." Can you name any other organization that identifies it members as "people who are scared"? When a group of Sunrise kids showed up outside Sen. Dianne Feinstein's office demanding she vote for the Green New Deal, they were pleading, "We have come to a point where our Earth is dying, literally," and "[s]cientists have said that we have 12 years to turn this around." Thirteen-year-old Alexandria Villasenor skips school every Friday to conduct her own "climate strike" across the street from the U.N. Given what she believes about the situation, and despairing that it will be "too late" by the time her wiser generation takes over, she draws the only logical conclusion: "Why go to school if we won't have a future? Why go to school if we're going to be too busy running from the next hurricane or fire? We'll be migrating to places where we can actually live." Natalie Rotstein, a Sunrise volunteer and junior at UCLA, also subsists in a state of incessant angst. "It's such an everyday, grinding kind of acceptance that there's probably going to be an apocalypse within our lifetime," she told the New Yorker. She says the certainty of this "imminent apocalypse" is why many of Rotstein's friends can't justify having children. We heard the same thinking shared recently on Instagram by Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, the giver of the Green New Deal. She says that because the "scientific consensus" is that children's lives "are going to be very difficult," young people should be asking themselves, "Is it OK to still have children?" On the other hand, if you already have children, is it OK to teach them that their future will be one long, bitter struggle to find food and the last high ground? Not that this kind of despair, and kids being terrified about climate change, is all parents' fault. Kids are being propagandized about the ticking climate clock in school, on TV, and everywhere on social media. It just doesn't help when the parents are scared, too. A 40-year-old Salt Lake City mother said the release of the U.N.'s latest climate report caused her three teenage daughters a severe emotional crisis. "There was a lot of crying. They told me, 'We know what's coming, and it's going to be really rough.'" Because mom believes it, too, there's not much help she can offer. "I want to have hope," she said, "but the reports are showing that this isn't going to stop, so all we can do is cope." I don't believe that these children are really studying climate reports; it's the media's hysterical coverage that's upsetting them. Take this headline in New York magazine: "UN Says Climate Genocide Is Coming. It's Actually Worse Than That." Worse than genocide? The New York Post found that the reporting on a similar U.S. climate assessment was also "all wrong," but only because "accurate science doesn't make for good television; predicting the end of times does." If Olivier Knox's hyperbole about being personally targeted for Trump's dungeon makes him a hero to his peers, that's fine, but unlike his peers, his son actually believes this tripe. Mothers are teaching small daughters that their futures are wrecked because someone Mommy didn't vote for got elected, or because wicked society won't unanimously "believe all women." For decades now millions of children and now their children have been weaned on the fake news about science's infallible conclusion that the Earth is "dying, literally." Like the three Salt Lake teenagers, what's left for these young people to do but burst into tears? Never mind for now all the political chicanery these fables have been used to unleash. Is this any way to treat children? And are the media that traffic in this nonsense their friends? Last weekend, a large church in Chicago hosted an Arab-Israeli speaker who spoke on the topic of Christ-centered reconciliation between Israelis and Palestinians. Dr. Salim Munayer, executive director and founder of Musalaha Ministry of Reconciliation, an organization which has worked to bring Israelis and Palestinians together since 1990. According to the churchs website, Munayer is a former academic dean at Bethlehem Bible College, an adjunct professor at Fuller Theological Seminary, and has published several books on reconciliation, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and Christians in Israel. Munayer began his message by stating that Ashkenazi Jews had replaced Palestinians in his native town Lod, Israel, in 1948, and that his family took refuge in a church for fear of being massacred during the Israeli-Arab war that year. While nobody wants to belittle the suffering that befell the innocent on both sides -- Israelis and Arabs -- saying that European Jews replaced Palestinians, reveals that Munayer has bought into the Palestinian narrative that was formed years later. I am referring to the Arab initiative that calls for an Arab Palestine "from the river to the sea," which delegitimizes the State of Israel and calls for its destruction. Under the British mandate for Palestine, both Arabs and Jews were considered Palestinian. In November 29, 1947, the United Nations General Assembly declared the partition of Palestine into an Arab State and a Jewish State, with Jerusalem as an international zone. The Arabs rejected the United Nations partition plan and intermittent hostilities broke out between the Arab and Jewish residents of British Mandatory Palestine over the next seven months. On May 14, 1948, Britain relinquished its mandate over Palestine and removed its civil administration and armed forces. On the same day, the Jewish Agency proclaimed the establishment of the State of Israel on the territory allotted to it by the United Nations partition plan of 1947. The next day, May 15, 1948, the first Arab-Israeli war broke out; five Arab countries "coming to the assistance" of their Arab brethren now living in the newly established State of Israel. Many Arabs left their homes for safety in neighboring Arab counties -- a process that already started the previous year after the United Nations Partition of British Mandatory Palestine -- hoping that the Arab armies would push the Jews into the [Mediterranean] sea. The Arabs of former British Mandatory Palestine, who remained after the declaration of the State of Israel, have been since that day called by all sides 1948 Arabs, not Palestinians. That being the case, the historically accurate description is Arab not Palestinian, when referring to the Arabs of former British Mandatory Palestine. Munayer should say that in 1948 Ashkenazi Jews had replaced Arabs who fled for fear of their lives, not Palestinians. Furthermore, Munayer, in one of his articles posted on the Christian website Come and See, accused his country, Israel, of Machiavellian politics and the marginalizing Arabs in order to justify violence against them. Munayer opines: The instinctive reaction of the marginalized is to employ violence, which leads to chaos and social disruption. When violence is embraced as a form of resistance, the oppressed play into the hands of the powerful who are then able to justify their actions for the sake of self-defense. Unlike the American churches where Munayer often preaches on reconciliation, his compatriots describe him in different terms. According to an article in Israel Today, Munayers organization is described as almost exclusively focused on bringing together Christian Arabs and Messianic Jews [not Israelis and Palestinians in the West Bank and the Gaza Strip]. As for the rest of Israeli Jewish society, Munayer has traditionally taken a more antagonistic approach, which speaks to what he expects of Messianic Jews interested in reconciliation. The News Agency added: Of note, Munayer has boasted of family ties to George Habash, once described by Time magazine as Terrorisms Christian Godfather and a man responsible for the murder of many Israelis. More recently, Munayer was heard (listen at 43:13) suggesting that Hamas arent really terrorists and are just trying to make life better in the Gaza Strip. The position of some Israeli Arab citizens like Munayer is similar to that of many Lebanese Muslims who questioned the legitimacy of the Lebanese state before the devastating fifteen-year-long civil war that broke out in 1975. Many Lebanese Muslims accused their state of being predominately Maronite Christian and sided with Palestinian and leftist militias, to the detriment of their own country. According to Israel Today, Father Gabriel Naddaf, an Orthodox priest from Nazareth and Founder of the Christian Empowerment Council, called for an inquiry into the funding of Musalaha, and warned that under the veneer of reconciliation lurks an anti-Israel and pro-terror agenda. American churches should avoid taking sides in the complicated Israeli-Arab conflict, and beware of political polarization under the guise of reconciliation and human rights. Hesham Shehab is a Counter Islamist Grid Chicago Associate A long time ago, one of my friends explained to me the Cockroach Theory: If you see one cockroach, there are one hundred cockroaches behind the wall. Recently I came across three examples of the Cockroach Theory as it applies to local, state, and federal issues. The April 19, 2019 issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association conducted a study of workplace wellness and concluded, Findings: In this cluster randomized trial involving 32,974 employees at a large US warehouse retail company, worksites with the wellness program had an 8.3-percentage point higher rate of employees who reported engaging in regular exercise and a 13.6-percentage point higher rate of employees who reported actively managing their weight, but there were no significant differences in other self-reported health and behaviors; clinical markers of health; health care spending or utilization; or absenteeism, tenure, or job performance after 18 months. What does this mean to us as taxpayers? How many local taxing bodies (school districts, etc.) are wasting hundreds of thousands of dollars on wellness programs that do not reduce health care spending or absenteeism? How much does Cook County spend on their My Health Connections program? How much does the State of Illinois spend on their Get HIP program? Add all of these hundreds of thousands and you quickly get to millions of dollars on a statewide basis. Moving to the state level, the Illinois General Assembly is contemplating HB2691, The Retention of Illinois Students and Equity Act. Quoting directly from the synopsis: Creates the Retention of Illinois Students and Equity Act. Provides for legislative findings and a definition. Provides that, notwithstanding any other provision of law to the contrary, a student attending an institution of higher learning in this State who is deemed an Illinois resident for tuition purposes and is not otherwise eligible to receive federal financial aid shall be eligible to apply or receive consideration for State financial aid, including any student aid or benefit funded or administered by the State, a State agency, or any public institution of higher learning, including, but not limited to, scholarships, grants, awards, stipends, free room and board, tuition waivers, or other financial or in-kind assistance. Reading through the fiscal notes, they state that this program will apply to 3,500 individuals at a cost of $9 million/year. There is no supporting information regarding how the number 3,500 was arrived at, which leads one to wonder whether the actual number will be closer to 10,500 or 12,500 individuals (for example, to save Southern Illinois University, enrollment in 1990 24,089; enrollment 2017, 14,554) that cash-strapped Illinois taxpayers will be providing financial assistance -- individuals who are not eligible for federal financial aid. To qualify for such aid, one must be a U.S. citizen or eligible noncitizen (have a green card), be registered for the Selective Service if you are a male, and have a valid Social Security number. Knowing that Illinois is financially distressed, why is the Illinois General Assembly contemplating allocating resources to create this program? How about the sponsors behind the Fair tax, such as Think Big Illinois and One Illinois voluntarily using their resources to offer scholarships for those who cannot produce a green card, wont/cant register for the Selective Service and dont have a Social Security number instead of giving the bill to overtaxed Illinois taxpayers? Regarding taxpayers, on April 16, State Senator Laura Fine and representatives Robyn Gabel and Jennifer Gong Gershowitz sponsored a presentation by Ralph Martire from the Center for Budget and Tax Accountability to discuss Governor Pritzkers Fair tax. Ralph Martire made a number of assertions. Among them was that Illinois does not have a spending problem -- Illinois has a revenue problem. Based on the cockroaches, I see, Illinois has a spending problem. The above two are examples (cockroaches) of government misallocating millions of scarce taxpayer dollars that do not benefit the residents of Illinois. What are the other hundred behind the wall? If we killed the cockroaches, could we go a long way towards not needing yet another tax increase? Finally, on a federal level, the National Center for Bio Technology Information released a study of hip fracture treatment in extremely old patients on July 19, 2014. One chart (table 2 if you look it up online) that is particularly noteworthy is the fact that out of 57 patients who were treated either by a femoral nail or partial hip replacement, eight had Alzheimers. There are other conditions listed such as malignancy, cerebrovascular disease, Parkinsons, etc. It is a fair question to ask why Medicare (us) should pay for surgical hip procedures for individuals who have Alzheimers. Why would we perform this procedure on cognitively impaired individuals or individuals who have a short horizon to live? What about pacemakers? Who benefits by performing this procedure? Again, the Cockroach Theory is raised -- if Medicare is paying for such procedures, what other procedures are being performed on incapacitated individuals who have no hope of recovery? Remember the Cockroach Theory: If you see one, there are one hundred behind the wall. Apply it to how finite taxpayer dollars are allocated on a local, state and federal level. Kudos to Oscar for introducing me to the Cockroach Theory. Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has sent a message of congratulations to Russian President Vladimir Putin on the Victory Day, News.am reports. This holiday is the embodiment of a great victory, as well as a symbol of joint struggle and heroism of the peoples of the former Soviet Union, the message says. The courage of our fathers and grandfathers, who defeated fascism, is forever inscribed in the heroic chronicle of our peoples, as an example of courage and resilience for present and future generations. Pashinyan said he is convinced, that friendship and shared values that stood the test of time, are a solid basis for strategic partnership and alliance between Russia and Armenia. Armenian PM wished all Russians good health, well-being and prosperity. The White House is preparing to designate the Muslim Brotherhood a foreign terrorist organization, a measure that would impose economic and travel sanctions against the group. "The president has consulted with his national security team and leaders in the region who share his concern, and this designation is working its way through the internal process," White House press secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders said in an emailed statement on April 30. The move seems to be entirely logical and fair, since the Brotherhood is the religious foundation of Islamic terrorist groups, such as al-Qaeda, Islamic Jihad, Hamas, and ISIS. It not only serves as their ideological wellspring, but also cooperates with them on multiple levels, including financing and providing material support for their operations. It is a fact that before ascending to the highest positions of ISIS and al-Qaeda, Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, Osama bin Laden, and Ayman al-Zawahiri belonged to a common ideological precursor: the Muslim Brotherhood. All these groups are bound by the common ideological belief in a global caliphate governed by Islamic law. The Brotherhood's longstanding motto is "Allah is our objective. The Prophet is our leader. The Qur'an is our law. Jihad is our way. Dying in the way of Allah is our highest hope. [Allah is greater!]" The Brotherhood has provided the platform used to indoctrinate young men into Islamism and a bridge for recruits to graduate into the more violent Islamism. Factions within the groups have also supported each other based on shared goals, common enemies, and support for a united Islamist front. Thus, if it walks, talks, and acts like a terrorist, it is probably a terrorist and deserves to be treated as such, right? "Wrong," say the mainstream media. "Trump wants to hurt Muslim Brotherhood," whines the Huffington Post, blaming it all on the administration's "Islamophobia" and "conspiracy theories [promoted by the hate groups in the U.S., many of them with deep ties to Bolton and Pompeo] attempting to tie political opponents and prominent American Muslim organizations to the Muslim Brotherhood." Are you not seeing an irony in that statement, HuffPo? You have just created a great conspiracy theory yourself! CNN, The WSJ, and many others describe the group with respect and admiration and parrot the notion that the Brotherhood "denounced violence decades ago" and embraced democratic methods. It even formed political parties throughout the region! Labeling them terrorists, they say, would hurt American diplomacy and alliances, as well as the whole democratic process in the Middle East. Also, they argue, the George W. Bush and Obama administrations did not recognize the Brotherhood terrorists. They were so much smarter than Trump! Or were they not? Both Bush and Obama, as well as a shortsighted liberal European establishment, failed to admit an essential connection between the political and militant branches of jihadist Islamism. According to this point of view, the terrorists are "lone wolves" and "trigger-pullers," whereas Islamic movements, even if they propagate a global jihad against non-believers, are legit political actors that may participate in a democratic process with other parties and movements as long as they formally remain peaceful. In other words, you may recruit someone, allure him into a violent ideology, provide him with a truck loaded with explosives, and point at an enemy and you're a "politician," and only executors are terrorists. In Europe, for example, this perverted belief is implemented in the legal distinctions between terrorists and their support networks. Thus, the E.U. has banned Hezb'allah's militant branch while allowing its "political" division to function freely. Naturally, rather than moderating its positions, Hezb'allah is taking advantage of the liberal approach of its host and using its open operations to facilitate terrorism in Europe as well as weapons procurement while enlarging and strengthening a base of its supporters. Trapped in this false perspective, the Bush and Obama administrations tried as stubbornly as fruitlessly to bring democracy to the authoritarian Arab world by supporting "political" Islamists, including the Muslim Brotherhood, despite its open condemnation of Western values and the Western way of life, rejection of the Western concept of human rights, and explicit calls to fight infidels. The naive belief in the goodness of the "moderate" Islamists projected a perception of the weak and indecisive United States that gave the Islamists carte blanche to implement their violent policies, consolidate forces and resources, and promote an aggressive agenda. The secularism in the region has been weakened, while religious fanatics have strengthened their positions. The Islamists' victories in the postArab Spring elections constituted monumental developments. As Dr. Alexander Murinson notes, although wielding different amounts of power in different countries, Islamist forces have come to play a crucial, if not dominating, role in the political life of a geographical arch that, with the qualified exceptions of Algeria and Libya, extends from Rabat to Gaza. Moreover, Islamists seem poised to play a greater role in other Arab countries, whether that is participating in toppling a regime or by demanding concessions of current rulers. As the result, Islamic extremism and terrorism have dynamically increased in the Middle East and worldwide. In this instance, saying "political" Muslims have the right to promote an agenda of global jihad seems to be the same as endorsing a "democratic" National Socialist German Workers' Party in 1938 or a "democratic" Communist Party of the Soviet Union. Should we tolerate an activity of the extremist parties just because they managed to establish Western-like decorative structures and state institutions? Should we ignore the fact that their ideological fundamentalism includes calls for dominance over others, excludes competition, neglects human rights, and endorses violence against "enemies"? That they support and inspire acts of killing? The Trump administration's reasonable approach to clearly identifying radical Islamic terrorism as America's chief foreign enemy and define extremists for what they are has already proven its efficacy. Its implementation has stripped ISIS of nearly all of its territory in Syria and Iraq and severed it from its financial sources. Going after the ideological masterminds is only a logical step in a complex task of eliminating a terrorist threat once and for all. Be afraid for America. We've had it too good for too long, and it's caught up with us. Nothing stays the same, right? We, things around us, the world itself are all in flux aging, decaying, eroding, cooling, dying. Atoms and molecules aren't at rest. They're in motion, always trying to escape the confines of subatomic space. Laws of physics keep them bound, creating orderliness out of chaos. Eventually, these yield to the immensity of time, causing collapse into entropy and a return to chaos. Entropy is a process, an unraveling of a system. Man-made systems are not at all different. Careful arrangements of papers and books comprising laws, writs, and documents comprising treaties and constitutions all are in various states of repair and effectiveness. Is the obsolescence of a governmental system an inevitability, like a physical system's entropy? I don't fear what will happen in billions of years; it's the next twenty that worry me. Some claim that our Constitution is ancient, out of touch, and unsuited to today's problems. They want to modify it, change wordings, add new meanings, take away rights, create an entirely new system from which to govern. But we evolved into greatness based on our Constitution. How can we know that change or replacement will be better? Unlike atoms, human behavior is not uniform. It gives rise to differing ideas and outcomes. To measure the superiority of one over another, we must study the societal happiness generated by each idea or system in relation to the whole. How many thrive with meaningful fulfillment in their lives compared with other types of governance? There are indicators of societal health, but quantifying them can lead to differing conclusions. Still, seen objectively from a macro perspective, the nation's longevity, GDP, population growth, advancements in science, mortality rates of young and old, societal benevolence in times of emergency, incarceration rates, and percent living in poverty all suggest that America has been one of the best for more than 100 years. This is a fact, whether you agree with the criteria or the overall assessment or not. Think of America as a system susceptible to entropy. Tampering with intrinsic parts could trigger the process, making it lose its unique and exceptional character. Some expect that this is a sociological inevitability democracies are doomed before they begin. But what if it's the dumb ideas of an ignorant few who insist on seeing the world on a utopian palette? Or a few others who desire an oligarchic New World Order? Most know that the first is not possible, the second to be avoided at all costs. Can we allow such ideological tinkering, motivation, and selfish hopes to justify taking such risks? America was fashioned from a strong work ethic, Judeo-Christian values, respect for law and order, and rugged individualism. These were the elements of our making, bound together by constitutionalism, republicanism, free-market capitalism, and trust in a creator. Those who reward indolence; increase entitlements; think government has every answer; disrespect the police; would rescind constitutional rights; or sit idly by as we're beguiled away from our proven model toward possible indenture, uncertainty, and chaos are not just foolish; they are a menace! We can improve our model but must never allow its entropy, natural or otherwise. The elements of our existence, the building blocks of our success, are irreplaceable. Diminish them in any way, and just like Humpty-Dumpty, they may never come together again. Let's rely on things that work, not fairy tales. America's Dream is a reality. Keep it that way, and leave entropy to the physicists! Al Shane publishes Shaneview. Is the Vatican going to give 'sanctuary' to Venezuela's fleeing socialists to ensure they face no consequences for killing dissidents and robbing the country blind? That's what it looks like, based on a report from PanAm Post's Sabrina Martin, citing a Venezuelan cleric. She writes: Pope Francis has shown signs of his great affinity to socialism, which has not been lost on Venezuela's Chavistas. High-ranking Venezuelan officials have now decided to request asylum from the Catholic Church in anticipation of the possible fall of Nicolas Maduro. With Francis as pope for life, Chavistas have ensured impunity for themselves, and a way to get away with their crimes. Monsignor Mario Moronta, vice president of the Venezuelan Episcopal Conference (CEV) has already reported that senior Chavista officials are considering taking refuge in churches if Maduro is overthrown. The possibility arose that the Catholic Church might offer them asylum. Which would be quite a picture for the Church, sheltering Chavista thugs who've just gotten done mowing down peaceful protesters in the streets in church sanctuaries from supposedly wicked Venezuelans all upset about not being able to eat or even protest about it. The monsignor goes on to give a gag-inducing trope about the Church always helping those in need including apparently even Venezuela's socialist billionaires who have lined their pockets with the country's wealth, or Venezuela's famous 'shoot into the crowds' Chavista motorcycle thugs. He then gives a disclaimer about not wanting to be complicit in the crimes of Chavismo, so maybe he is being insincere, since none of them is exempt from that. Whom can he be talking about if he says he only wants to help the non-criminals of the narco-regime? Sheltering Chavistas from the consequences of their crimes, needless to say, is not the way to fill the church pews with the faithful, given the large numbers of Venezuelans who would like to see these thugs and thieves brought to actual, rather than social, justice. Is the Church saying they don't have a case? Or that desperate Chavistas on the run from their crimes are entitled to impunity unlike other criminals? It's hard to tell based on the Moronta statement. It's doubly so because Venezuela has some very hard-ass Church leaders who have explicitly condemned socialism and all its evils, and these are the people Pope Francis likes to ignore. Moronta, according to his biography, is a John Paul II appointee, which means he probably isn't some Pope Francis pawn seeded into the Church leadership to promote left-wingery under clerical colors. It's possible that he's offering them sanctuary as an incentive to get them the hell out, which is what Venezuelans want, given that Vladimir Putin reportedly told the Maduroites they sure as heck weren't going to get any asylum in Russia. Others have offered Chavistas a gentle out, including Guaido there are carrots on offer galore to get Chavistas to move to the other side. Moronta's statement might be a pragmatic move to entice them out. But sanctuary under color of the Church, as if angry Venezuelans outside were somehow threatening to kill them, which they are not, sure as heck doesn't seem like a good look for the Church or its own claims to being the face of social justice. That said, Martin thinks the Church is in bed with the Maduroites on political-ideological rather than spiritual grounds, based on other factors, starting with the pope's failure to stand up to the tyrants in Venezuela. There has also been some reporting, denied by the Vatican, that the Vatican's bank, via a shell company, is sheltering some of the Chavista oligarchy's ill-gotten billions. Martin reports: According to information disseminated by the Peruvian journalist Jaime Bayly, there are three key figures of Chavismo who have millions of euros in the Vatican bank. According to Bayly, he was able to obtain banking information on Nicolas Maduro, Diosdado Cabello, and the daughter of Hugo Chavez, Maria Gabriela Chavez. He said that between the three of them, they have $1.76 billion euros. Although the Vatican has denied that Maduro and other socialist ex-presidents have deposits there, the Colombian newspaper El Expediente revealed that there is an alleged money laundering operation that has been used by Latin American leaders called "Route of the K Money," and that it was set in motion by the ex-president of Argentina, Cristina Kirchner, in conjunction with Pope Jorge Mario Bergoglio. That's a hard one to grasp, too, given that the pope and Kirchner are hardly friends Kirchner actually leaked false information about Bergoglio to keep him from getting elected pope. Again, there's a heckuva lot of confusing information to digest here. And yet, and yet it's hard not to think the Vatican, which has shown an amazing failure of leadership on Venezuela, is siding with the Maduroites over the people. There was its failure to recognize the acting government of Juan Guaido. There is this church sanctuary thing for Chavistas. There is the issue of whether their bank is in hock with the thieving socialist thugs ruling Venezuela. With so many negatives already in place, offering sanctuary to Chavistas is a pretty bad idea, and certain to seal and discredit the very idea of sanctuary entirely, even more than church sanctuary activity in the U.S. regarding the foreigners its churches shelter for breaking U.S. immigration law. If they give these people sanctuary, either to just get them out of there, or because they want to 'save' them from the consequences they deserve from those supposedly godawful poor people, (and actually, it might be both) they're putting themselves in for a hell of a quandary. They ought to stay out of this, because they aren't going to win for siding with tyrants over millions of starving people in their vast collective call for peace and justice. They need to run as far away as they can from this idea. Image credit: Diliff via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0. The New York Times (WikiLeaks East) has the goods on Trump this time. Based on leaked tax records, the paper claims that businessman Donald Trump lost 1.17 billion dollars between 1985 and 1994 and in all but two of those years paid no income taxes. Not only did he lose money, but he appeared to lose more money than nearly any other individual taxpayer for a number of years. Obviously Donald Trump is not a business genius as he has claimed. The amazing thing is, the Times seems to think Trump voters will care. Will Trump voters care, or will they simply see this as the reality of big business? Those who invest millions and billions run the risk of losing the same. Is anyone really stunned by such a revelation? Is there anyone who is not aware of Trump bankruptcies in past years? Will not supporters of the president likely instead feel that his recovery from such financial disaster was an amazing accomplishment? The New York Times, Democrats, and their media allies have never understood that Americans who elected Donald Trump president had already factored in who and what he is. They had compared him, blemishes and all, to 16 Republicans and Hillary Clinton and decided that our nation was in need of drastic change. Donald Trump was that drastic change! Consider for instance the presidents midterm approval numbers. They are not only equivalent to the approval numbers of that darling of the press, Barack Obama, but phenomenal, given the nonstop criticism and abuse heaped on him from election day onward. Can you recall any other president about whom impeachment was being threatened prior to his taking the oath of office? That notwithstanding, his accomplishments in two years surpass the full-term accomplishments of any other president in recent memory. Imagine what his poll numbers might be if he had been given the honeymoon period generally afforded a new president and a modicum of fair press. To take it a step farther, what is the likelihood that polling data again, as during his election year, underestimate his popularity due to the constant disparagement to which Trump-supporters are subjected? What the media cannot seem to fathom or accept is that since they did not make Trump, they cant destroy him. Only Trump himself is capable of destroying his relationship with his voters and supporters. Mueller had a chance, but try as hard as he and his band of hostile Democrats could, they failed for the most simple of reasons. Trump did not collude with Putin and Russia. With regard to obstruction of justice being the lefts new rallying cry after Trump, in an unprecedented move by a prosecutor, was exonerated of criminal collusion with Russia, does any Trump-supporter give a damn what Jerry Nadler, Adam Schiff, and other unhinged Democrats think? Do Trump-supporters really care whether or not Trump obstructed justice in such a meritless and political investigation? They likely do not. Through it all, the left seems clueless relative to the anger that simmers in America over Democrats and their politics of personal destruction. For the first time, Republicans have a president whom the media cannot destroy. He fights back, and he wins. Trump support, in all likelihood, will only grow if Democrats and their media fellow travelers continue their scorched-earth efforts to destroy the president, his family, his associates, and his presidency. Partisan Democrats are obviously incapable of understanding the voter frustration that elected and will again elect Donald Trump in 2020. They just dont get it, and further demonization of those who support the president will not help their cause. No political party is more blind than the Democratic Party that refuses to see. On sheer volume, open-borders advocates are in the catbird seat, getting exactly the open borders they have effectively been calling for. Here is the latest from NPR: The number of migrants apprehended at the Southern border surpassed 100,000 for the second consecutive month, according to new figures released by the Trump administration. U.S. Customs and Border Protection apprehended 109,144 migrants in April. That is more than 5,400 over the total in the month of March, and it is the highest monthly total since 2007. The chief of the Border Patrol, Carla Provost, told a Senate Judiciary panel that "our apprehension numbers are off the charts." "We cannot address this crisis by shifting more resources. It's like holding a bucket under a faucet. It doesn't matter how many buckets you give me if we can't turn off the flow," she said. For the rest of us, we are about to learn just what open borders looks like. One hundred nine thousand is quite a few people, not just in a big country such as the United States, but in the countries these migrants are coming from 1% of the population of Guatemala, 1% of the population of Honduras, taken over the course of the first seven months of the fiscal year. Economist Hernando de Soto told me several years ago that history shows there is no stopping the movement of peoples, and while I felt disagreement with him then, it's clear that in this mass migration incident, he was in a certain way right. It's not that people are unstoppable like deer in nature, however. It's that the incentivizing laws from the U.S. from the failure of the asylum system to keep junk claims out, to the huge banquet of 'free' benefits on offer from states, which judges have ruled no popular vote can stop, pretty well inevitably leads to the now seen open border that lawmen can no longer stop, all based on sheer volume. The law has little ballast or enforcement in the face of a migrant flood, with migrants now rolling in not just from Central America, but from all over the world. What is it going to take to re-establish rule of law, to stop so many service-desperate, uneducated, hard-to-assimilate, unskilled migrants looking for a handout without following the law? It helps, of course, when someone puts pressure on the governments that make life so miserable for their citizens that they want to leave, as a Nigerian cardinal did recently, blasting his country's government for driving so many people out based on its rotten governance. In this hemisphere, no such leadership is evident on the ground in remittance-hungry countries such as Honduras, so the migrants are coming. Sadly, Victor Davis Hanson has offered the grim answer where the limit lies from these current open-border dynamics, too, writing: Under such conditions, the logical limits of immigration can be calibrated not so much by whether countries south of the border reach parity with American standards of living, freedom, security, and quality of life. But rather the current issue is whether regions of America, especially the American Southwest become roughly indistinguishable from Latin America and Mexico, and therefore in terms of economic opportunity, safety, and quality of life do not offer that much of an improvement or at least not such a radical margin of enhancement to justify abandoning one's homeland. In such an equation, the more that illegal aliens arrive, swamp social services and tax law enforcement, the more that they create ethnic enclaves that resist rapid assimilation and the more that they sense that their hosts see them most useful as an identity politics constituency, then the more parts of the southwestern United States will seem more like Mexico, and perhaps to the point of eventually diminishing illegal immigration. No one knows what the saturation point might be of illegal and unassimilated immigration, but influxes are now approximating each month a mid-sized American city. So the U.S. will have to become as corrupt, hellish, and impoverished as the places these foreigners leave behind to nullify the enticements of migrating illegally. Which is a pretty sad picture. The only possibility of reversing it, though, is still out there, given that nations such as Canada and Australia have mastered it: they crafted far better immigration laws, which required fewer lawmen to stop those who would break those laws. If the U.S. does this, the nation can renew its commitment to rule of law, and serious efforts can be made to halt illegal entrants at the border. No chance for that with the Democrats, who see the migrants as politically useful in a lot of ways, the needier and more easily manipulated, the better. So for now, the migrants are rolling in, and the Border Patrol, with no tools for stopping anyone (just deporting one of them require the use of a detention bed they don't have) is effectively just waving them though, if not serving as free babysitters for people who should be paying for their own freight the way normal people do. It's sad because the other thing Hernando de Soto said was critical for any prosperity and stability in a country is the invisible architecture of rule of law. Without it, the U.S. can just morph into Honduras North. It appears the Democrats would have that because they are blocking any meaningful efforts to control the border, the borders are wide open now and rule of law is going fast. Image credit: ABC News via shareable YouTube screen shot. We remember then governor, now senator, Mitt Romney bringing up Russia during the 2012 election. Those were the days when President Obama mocked Mr. Romney for saying about the 1980s wanting their foreign policy back, or something like that. Today, we remember something else that Romney said in that campaign: self-deportation. His point is that people would go home if they didn't find work in the U.S. It turns out that Romney was right again. See this report by Christie Thompson, a Politico staff writer, and Andrew R. Calderon, data reporter for the Marshall Project, a nonprofit news organization that focuses on the U.S. criminal justice system: The number of immigrants who have applied for voluntary departure has soared since the election of Donald Trump, according to new Justice Department data obtained by the Marshall Project. In fiscal year 2018, the number of applications doubled from the previous fiscal year rising much faster than the 17 percent increase in overall immigration cases, according to data from the Transactional Records Access Clearinghouse at Syracuse University. The numbers show yet another way the Trump administration's crackdown on immigration is having an effect: More people are considering leaving the U.S., rather than being stuck in detention or taking on a lengthy legal battle with little hope of success. Last year, voluntary departure applications reached a seven-year high of 29,818. In the Atlanta court, which hears cases of Irwin detainees like Zamarron, the applications multiplied nearly seven times from 2016 to 2018. It makes total sense, and I've seen examples of it. In other words, if you open the door and don't enforce the laws, then people will come over. If you check people at the door, then the word will get out that it's not easy to go to the U.S. If you really go after employers, and destroy the work incentives, then they won't come at all. The word is out that President Trump plans to enforce immigration laws. It's only natural that people here will go home and tell their friends that it's too "complicado" to go north. PS: You can listen to my show (Canto Talk) and follow me on Twitter. The first known use of the phrase "man's inhumanity to man" is in a poem by Robert Burns in 1784. The poem is called "The Dirge," and it is short: Man was made to mourn: A Dirge Many and sharp the num'rous ills Inwoven with our frame! More pointed still we make ourselves Regret, remorse, and shame! And man, whose heav'n-erected face The smiles of love adorn, Man's inhumanity to man Makes countless thousands mourn! Watching and enduring the Democrats' venomous drive to destroy President Trump brings the phrase to mind. They are characterized by an infantile inability to accept the results of the 2016 election. From the moment Trump became the nominee, they set out to wreak havoc on his candidacy, then his presidency, his life, and his family. Without even the hint of a crime committed, they set in motion an "investigation" that was really an attempted coup not an investigation at all, just a means to a desired end. The entire Democratic Party early on decided to jump on the collusion bandwagon, invented by the Clintons and a group of unelected, pompous individuals within the DOJ, FBI, and CIA. So shocked and offended by Hillary's loss, they set out to ramp up the illegal spying they had begun in July 2016, perhaps even earlier, to destroy his candidacy. Once he won, they escalated their scheme in hopes of preventing his inauguration. Failing that, they continued their concocted "collusion with Russia" plan. Robert Mueller most likely knew on day one of his appointment as a special counsel that there had been no collusion between the Trump campaign and Russia. That is how disingenuous he was and is. His job was to cover up the illegal surveillance that had already occurred and, at the same time, find a way to cement in the public's mind that such collusion had taken place. This was the level of inhumanity to which the left was willing to go to dislodge Trump from office. Words cannot adequately describe the shame of their attempt to overthrow a duly elected president and their contempt for those who voted for the man. There is a program now available on the cable channel Epix called Deep State. It is about the typical arrogance of a small number of CIA agents in the U.S. and U.K. So superior in their own minds, they use and abuse their own agents if a failure in the field occurs. The settings for the first season are France, Lebanon, and Iran. The indiscriminate violence of terrorist Islamists is just the third-world version of the equally uncivilized violence the CIA bosses visit upon people thousands of miles away, including their own if they become inconvenient. The show is a stark reminder that the CIA swells manipulate people like chess pieces on a board without the slightest regard for their lives, their families, or any sense of morality. This is exactly how the Democratic Party has behaved since Trump won the election and became president. The Democrats have become virtually inhumane. They cannot accept the Mueller Report they had assumed would bring about impeachment, so they have ratcheted up their vile campaign to ruin the president. They intend to continue their game plan rather than admit defeat and address the needs of the nation. The second season of Deep State has just begun. This time, the setting is Mali, West Africa. Another mission has failed, and those who worked it must be destroyed, including a young African girl whom the CIA team had hired as an interpreter. One has to admire the people who sign up for CIA field work, but, given what we now know about John Brennan, it is easy to believe that the characters in the series are based on real people. When all the facts come out, they will likely show that Brennan and his cohorts Clapper, Comey, McCabe, et al. are maniacally self-important. People, even fellow Americans, are disposable if their destruction is deemed necessary by persons who see themselves as above the law. In true Alinskyite fashion, the ends justify the means, and no mere lives are more important than the desired ends. The desired ends are often protecting lucrative jobs. The Democrats in Congress now realize that the jig may be up, that the hoax is about to be revealed to all. I.G. Horowitz and A.G. Barr are on the case. But their two-year, multi-million-dollar attempt to unseat a president has done irreparable damage to the nation, to the numerous people they bankrupted and charged with process crimes, to the presidency, and to the Trump family. They should be ashamed, but they are not. They are doubling down on stupid. Let us hope the nation can recover from this long national nightmare the Democrats have visited upon us. In the end, "Man's inhumanity to man Makes countless thousands mourn." Indeed, it does. Image: Gage Skidmore via Flickr. So just weeks after the Mueller investigation closed out the possibility that President-Trump-secretly-colluded-with-the-Russians-to-steal-the-election-from-Hillary-Clinton, here we go again... Only this time it's not the never-gonna-get-over-it Democrats returning to the scene of the crime, ad nauseam; it's Republicans on the Senate Intelligence Committee, led by North Carolina's Sen. Richard Burr, who sounds as though his first name is better pronounced 'Aaron.' Here's the New York Times' report: WASHINGTON The Senate Intelligence Committee has subpoenaed Donald Trump Jr., the president's eldest son, who met with Russians in June 2016 after being promised political dirt about Hillary Clinton, according to people familiar with the committee's decision. The younger Mr. Trump is the first of President Trump's children to be subpoenaed in the continuing congressional investigations into Russia's 2016 election interference, and the move by the Republican-led committee is a sign that some members of the president's party are not aligned with his desire for a swift end to all of the Russia inquiries. So somehow, at least one of them thinks a subpoena and a committee hearing is what it's going to take to get the truth out, never mind all those millions spent on the Mueller investigation, or all the hours Don Jr. already willingly testified before previous committees, or any of the parallel investigations and the nonstop Russia-Russia-Russia drumbeat from the far-from-disinterested press. Somehow, they think they're going to finally get something the determined Democrats investigating the Trump group over the course of two years somehow missed. Somehow, some new information is going to roll out, and the public (which has been largely discounting this dreck as the economy roars) will be compelled. The Times notes that the aim is not to get new information, but to 'validate' the basis for the Mueller investigation: The committee's leaders do not necessarily expect their conclusions to differ from Mr. Mueller's, but both Mr. Warner and Senator Richard M. Burr of North Carolina, the committee's chairman, have argued that finishing their bipartisan investigation will serve as an important validation of the special counsel, especially given the political climate. So Mueller was never 'valid' until they jumped late into the party. That's a new one, and quite a stretch, because that 'validation' they want is actually is already being revealed as pretty gamy, with deceptive FISA warrants, political unmaskings, and other politically motivated skullduggery from people who never had a right to use government resources in the way they did. They're out of their gourds, and it's a shame to see this garbage coming from the one house they control in the national legislature. There are Republican senators calling them on it, such as Sen. Rand Paul, seeing it for the junk legislative move it is, particularly since it's not the view of the Republican-led leadership. Breitbart News reports this: Sen. Rand Paul (R-KY) is slamming Sen. Richard Burr (R-NC), the GOP chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee, for contradicting direct orders from Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell on the Russia investigation and issuing a subpoena of Donald Trump, Jr., despite McConnell's statement that the case is closed[.] We all know what the agenda to this dog-vomit move from some Republicans really is: having Don Jr. say something that might be interpreted as a lie based on what he'd said earlier. Double-jeopardying him until the desired result is reached. Then getting rid of President Trump in a laying of the grounds of impeachment. That was the rationale behind the call for a special counsel, which the politicos bayed for and got, and the anti-Trumpsters not happy with the results they got, so now they're trying again. Human Events' publisher, Will Chamberlain, has some choice thoughts for the utterly bad move this effort to bore us to death is: And the idea that a Republican Senator, after an exhaustive and fruitless special counsel investigation, would authorize a subpoena against the President's son to continue to pursue the same conspiratorial nonsense is simply appalling. Your Republican constituents did not elect you to investigate Democrat conspiracy theories, Senator Burr. Wrap it up. Somehow, they want more. Because the agenda now seems to be that NeverTrump-ism is going to be the solution that will finally oust President Trump, win the voters over, and bring an appropriate wimp into the White House. Burr and anyone else in his tree couldn't be more idiotic. When primary time comes around, it's time to primary them. On the coast of Kahoolawe, the smallest of the eight main volcanic islands of Hawaiian, is a large crater left behind by a violent test conducted by the US Navy in 1965. Back then, starting from the beginning of World War 2 until the 1990s, Kahoolawe was used as a training ground and bombing target by the US armed forces. Thousands of soldiers, sailors, and airmen trained on Kahoolawe for the brutal assaults on islands such as the Gilbert and Marshall Islands, and New Guinea in the Western Pacific. During the Korean War, the War in Vietnam and throughout the entire Cold War period, pilots practiced hitting mock-up airfields, military camps, radar installations, and missile sites on Kahoolawe. Photo credit: www.islandconservation.org In 1963, the three nuclear super powers of the worldthe United States, the Soviet Union and the United Kingdomsigned the Limited Test Ban Treaty that banned all atmospheric tests of nuclear weapons. The ban was enforced to address the rising public anxiety over the magnitude of nuclear tests and the risk of nuclear fallout. The ban came at a time when the US Navy still had a thing or two to learn about nuclear bombs, especially how the Navys ships fared in the presence of a blast. Because they couldnt detonate nuclear bombs above the ground, the Navy turned to regular explosives but in enormous quantities to simulate a nuclear bomb. A series of three tests were conducted at Kahoolawe under Operation Sailor Hat. Several decommissioned ships were anchored offshore a few hundred meters from the coastline, and a large dome of TNT blocks34 feet across and 17 feet highcontaining 500 tons worth of explosives was detonated. After the first test, the large crater the explosion gouged into the bedrock was filled with sand to minimize secondary damage caused by rock ejecta. Over this crater another of dome of TNT blocks were built for the second test. This was repeated for the third test. 500 tons of TNT awaiting detonation at Operation Sailor Hat. Each of the three massive blasts could be seen for miles, by land, air and sea. Their shockwaves were so powerful that antennas, radars and other structures on the deck of the ships were ripped apart. A life size mannequin placed on the deck facing the blast was violently thrown over. Despite the topside damage, the 169-man navy crew and 60 scientific personnel who remained below deck experienced only a jolt equivalent to an Iowa-class battleship firing a nine gun 16-inch salvo. The Navy was impressed with how well the blast was resisted by their ships. Only some minor design improvements were needed to make the ships more robust. Meanwhile on Kahoolawe, the crater left by the third blast remained unfilled and slowly as the ecosystem healed, a small anchialine or landlocked pond formed with an underground connection to the ocean. The Sailor's Hat crater is now home to two endemic species of shrimps. For the last three decades, the state of Hawaii along with the US Navy has been engaged in a cleanup effort on the island trying to remove unexploded ordnances and revert the damages caused by nearly fifty years of munitions testing. Over $400 million have been poured into the effort, yet the job is far from over. A quarter of the island is still off-limits. Photo credit: Forest Starr and Kim/Flickr The death of composer Arif Melikov was a serious loss for the entire people of Azerbaijan, the Minister of Culture of Azerbaijan, Abulfaz Garayev said in an interview with the correspondent of Vestnik Kavkaza. "Arif Melikov was the last of the Mohicans of the Azerbaijani composer school. This is a great loss not only for music, but also for the Azerbaijani people, because Arif Melikov always adhered to Azerbaijanism, its traditions in his works, he was a great promoter of modern Azerbaijani culture. His works are popular in all countries of the world. I witnessed that when his music was playing, the love to Azerbaijan increased several times, the head of the Ministry of Culture of Azerbaijan said. Abulfas Garayev stressed that Arif Melikov was also a great teacher. He was the successor of Uzeyir Hajibeyovs school, then he himself raised a whole galaxy of talented musicians. A great personality left us. Arif Melikov will remain in our memory, and his works will never leave the repertoire of various orchestras, the minister said. The rector of the Azerbaijan National Conservatory, people's artist Siyavush Kerimi said that Arif Melikov will always live in the heart of every Azerbaijani, every music admirer. "He was really a great composer who will go down in the history of modern Azerbaijani culture and music. His works will always be performed, and his memory will always be honored," he noted. The Chairwoman of the Union of Composers of Azerbaijan, Peoples Artist, Professor Firangiz Alizade stressed that Arif Melikovs music will always sound. "Our teacher passed away. He taught us in this academy for many years. He created brilliant works such as Legends of Love. He lived a decent life. His works were performed on the best stages of the world. I think his music will always sound, his graduates will pass his legacy to the next generations, and Azerbaijanis will be proud of having such a great composer as Arif Melikov, "she said. Recall, the laureate of the State Prize of Azerbaijan, knight of of the Shohrat, Istiglal and Heydar Aliyev orders, an outstanding Azerbaijani composer Arif Melikov died in Baku today. The farewell ceremony was held today at the Uzeir Hajibeyli Baku Academy of Music. Googlers behind last Novembers 20,000-strong walkout have taken to Medium to voice their displeasure with the lackluster results, allegedly including retaliation against some of those involved, and demand that the company make sweeping and immediate changes. This comes after a sit-in on May 1, 2019 that didnt seem to get much in the way of results. To ensure some traffic for the issue on social media, organizers have attached the hashtag #NotOkGoogle to the Medium article, a play on Google Assistants wake phrase thats already seen tons of traffic on Twitter. What organizers will do if those changes are not made, however, is not clearly addressed. The organizers demands are relatively straightforward. First, they want Google to comply with the original demands of the walkout. Second, they want Larry Page himself to address those demands publicly. Third, they want Google to grant demands regarding two named employees whose transfers between departments were blocked, among other issues. Finally, theyre looking for a fully transparent investigation of Googles HR practices by a qualified third party with no vested interest in the company. The walkout happened back in November of 2018, and took place on a global scale. It involved around 4,000 employees from Googles main campus in Mountain View, and roughly 3,000 from the New York office, among others. There were five core demands involved in that walkout; the end of forced arbitration in cases involving harassment and discrimination, action against pay and opportunity inequality based on racism or sexism, a clear, uniform process for reporting sexual misconduct anonymously, a regular public report on what the companys doing to address sexual harassment, and finally, a twofold demand to have the companys Chief Diversity Officer report directly to CEO Sundar Pichai, and to have an employee representative elected to the board whose sole job will be to represent employee interests, with no financial ties or other vested interest in the larger company or upper management. Advertisement Pichai, for his part, earlier stated that the company has its leaders in place for a reason. He stated that the company is doing a good job of giving employees a voice, and that theres no need for the company to bend over backwards and change things from the deepest levels on up just to make a more accommodating work environment. The recent sit-in and now this Medium article with new demands, however, argue against his point. Walkout organizers claim that the company has lost its mooring, and is moving from crisis to crisis as it scrambles to balance the needs of the business with the needs of both employees and users. The complex and far-reaching nature of this conflict and the demands set forth means that things at the company could become very different very soon, depending on how things go. Thus far, theres been no direct reply from the company regarding this Medium article and the new demands set forth therein. The set of changes that employees are demanding would cause an essential shift in company culture that would give employees more power than ever to determine how the companys day-to-day business and larger deals are handled. Sonos mentioned in its earnings call today, that it will be bringing the Google Assistant to its smart speakers starting next week. The call didnt mention any specifics, other than the fact that it will be launching next week. When Sonos launched the One smart speaker a couple of years ago, it was supposed to get Google Assistant within a couple of months. That turned into a couple of years. Now were nearly two years after that launch, and the Google Assistant is finally going to be available. It went into beta earlier this year, after Sonos showcased it working on the One and Beam at CES in January. The letter to shareholders mentions that it will be available in the US next week, with other countries following later on. But no specific release dates for other countries, just yet. Sonos CEO, Patrick Spence stated that this feature will truly elevate the customer experience and marks the first time that consumers will be able to buy a single smart speaker and get to choose which voice assistant they want to use. We think giving consumers choice is always the right decision, and we anticipate this philosophy will be adopted in the industry over time. Advertisement Currently, both the One and Beam ship with Alexa built-in and will get Google Assistant support next week. Other Sonos speakers will also get support for Google Assistant, but not in the same sense. Unless things have changed since CES which is very possible other speakers like the PLAY:1 or PLAYBAR, will work with the Google Assistant, but it wont be built-in. Meaning you can use your Google Home to tell Google Assistant to play music on your PLAYBAR. But you wont be able to actually talk to your PLAYBAR using the Google Assistant. Its going to be a bit confusing, so hopefully Sonos does a good job at explaining it. Being able to purchase a single smart speaker and being able to use either Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant is going to be a big deal. Especially those that are already invested in Sonos, or want a really good sounding smart speaker. Sonos is able to fit both of those bills. With multi-room audio, Sonos and Google Assistant are going to be a match made in heaven. With the Sonos Beam, youll be able to also ask either assistant to play something on your TV that is, if you are using the HDMI ARC port on your TV. As it is able to control your TV through that port and not the regular soundbar port on the back. Sonos will release more details next week on Google Assistant for its speakers, so until then, theres a lot of questions that need to be answered. Like whether this will work on both versions of the Sonos One, and if it will also work on One and Beam speakers that are already in peoples homes. It should, since Sonos does push out software updates quite often, and thats all that should be needed here. Kids in elephant riding hotspot call for an end to tourism rides 09 May 2019 Vietnamese school children paint images of a more humane future without elephant rides, circuses or trinkets made from elephant parts. The town of Buon Don is synonymous in Vietnam for the centuries old practice of keeping and riding elephants. While in the past, captured elephants were used for logging, in recent years, they have become a mainstay of the tourism industry with most forced to give rides to tourists. Many have parts of their body removed such as tails and tusks to be sold as souvenirs, while captive elephants elsewhere in the country are abused in circuses. READ MORE: The Truth About Elephant Riding But as awareness of the welfare needs of elephants increases, schoolchildren in the region are calling for change. Hundreds of children sent painted images to Animals Asia as part of a Happy Elephants art competition calling for a better life for captive and wild elephants Animals Asia Animal Welfare Director, Dave Neale said: Nobody can doubt the depth of feeling toward elephants in Buon Don village, but it is imperative that people also understand their welfare needs so that our obsession with these incredible animals doesnt cause them harm. These schoolchildren are now in no doubt that elephants need the forest. They need to roam, to be social, to be free in order to live happy, healthy lives. In 2015, the elephant tourism industry made headlines in Vietnam when a number of animals died of exhaustion due to overwork. Dak Lak province, home to Buon Don village, is famed for its elephant tourism and is believed to contain around 40 captive elephants. According to recent data from the Vietnam Administration of Forestry, Vietnams wild elephant population is believed to have fallen to between 100 and 150, a figure conservationists say is not viable to ensure their survival, while 88 individuals live in captivity, mostly providing rides for tourists in Dak Lak. The rapid decline in wild numbers, from around 2,000 in 1990 to around 100 today, is largely due to loss of habitat as forests are cleared for logging and agriculture. Historically, wild capture for domestication in the tourism industry and poaching for ivory have been exacerbating factors, although poaching has ceased in recent years. Vietnam is taking emergency steps to conserve the countrys remaining wild populations by establishing the Elephant Conservation Centre, where Animals Asia provides animal management and welfare advice. Animals Asia has also launched the countrys first ethical elephant tourism initiative where former riding elephants are retired to a national park where tourists can observe them behaving naturally in the forest. A bus with passengers crashed into a fence on Kabanbay Batyr Avenue in Nur-Sultan, the city police department reported. Today, the driver of the bus number 303 driving along Kabanbai Batyr Avenue towards Kosshy lost control and crashed into a metal fence, Sputnik Kazakhstan reports. At the time of the accident, there were five people inside the bus - the driver and passengers. None of them was hurt. The European Union has rejected Iran's 60-day "ultimatum", referring to Tehran's decision to quit parts of the 2015 nuclear agreement a year after the US withdrew from the landmark accord signed with major world powers, including the EU, Al Jazeera reports. In a joint statement with the foreign ministries of France, the United Kingdom and Germany, the EU urged Iran to respect the nuclear deal, and said they regretted fresh US sanctions imposed on Tehran. "We strongly urge Iran to continue to implement its commitments under the JCPoA in full as it has done until now and to refrain from any escalatory steps," the statement read. "We reject any ultimatums and we will assess Iran's compliance on the basis of Iran's performance regarding its nuclear-related commitments under the JCPoA." Not at all. It just seems like a lot of back-and-forth talk. Yes. I'm growing very worried over what might happen. If it keeps up, I might be a little more concerned. I think there are much larger things to concern us as a country. It's hard to tell; I can't take the leader of either country seriously. Vote View Results Marysville, CA (95901) Today Windy at times with rain. High 49F. Winds S at 20 to 30 mph. Chance of rain 100%. Rainfall near a half an inch. Higher wind gusts possible.. Tonight Cloudy skies early, followed by partial clearing. Low 38F. Winds SSW at 10 to 15 mph. Dnata has been selected to provide ramp, secure clean and passenger handling services to Lufthansa at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport and now serves the airline group, including Swiss International Air Lines, Austrian Airlines and Edelweiss Air, at eight airports in the country. In Austin, Dnata will handle Lufthansas new Frankfurt flight, which the airline operates five times a week, using its Airbus A330-300 aircraft. Including the German carrier, Dnata now provides air services to three airlines in the state capital of Texas with a team of 75 customer-oriented aviation professionals. David Barker, chief executive officer of dnata USA, said: We are proud to be the ground handler of choice for a leading global airline group in the worlds largest aviation market. Our newest contract with Lufthansa is a testament to our successful partnership and the consistent high quality our teams deliver across the U.S. We stay committed to providing best-in-class services to our airline customers and their passengers, every day. Holger Bremes, director commercial Airport Infrastructure, Lufthansa Group, said: As a premium airline, Lufthansa Airlines is excited to grow the North American relationship with the start of service in Austin with dnata. With our very positive service experience from destinations like Boston (BOS), Los Angeles (LAX), San Francisco (SFO) and New York (JFK) we are looking forward to providing first class service to our customers with our handling partner at Austin Airport. Victoria has a rich history of significant country court houses. Shepparton Law Court Redevelopment seeks to provide affirmation of the importance of civic architecture in the community. The court house, along with other public buildings formed the heart from which the regional Australian town centre would evolve. Shepparton Law Court Redevelopment celebrates this civic importance. Located on the prominent corner of High and Wyndham Streets, in regional country town of Shepparton, it completes the Justice precinct with the Police Station to the west and the 1930s heritage Supreme Court building centred on the site. In recognition of the heritage courthouse, key moments reference the red brick civic memory. A solid brick plinth along the facade grounds the building to material junctions and interfacing panels, extending to the landscaped forecourt. Clad in a mix of glass, translucent and solid materials, the composition of the building facade responds to the complex internal program, urban context and site orientation. The design aspirations for the Law Court Redevelopment integrates the contemporary civic needs of openness, transparency, equality and accessibility. The building plan is L shaped with an east-west axis providing abundant natural light and aspects towards the Goulburn River parklands. Public waiting spaces and courtrooms are generous in scale, calm in character, with connections to views and daylight light. Entry to the justice precinct was inspired by the River Red Gum, the enduring image of the large ancient tree in the floodplains of the Goulburn River; suggests shade, shelter and the offering of a gathering place. The ancient tree informed the initial design principles for the welcoming entry lobby, with the distorted trunk and root system anchored to the ground with the canopy filtering sunlight. Internally, wrapped layered bands of timber and tiles represent the abstracted tree structure, whilst externally the leaf patterned perforated metal screens distill the intense sun light, shading the courthouse. The landscaped forecourt area offers a space for respite from the rigor of justice processes to gather thoughts or meet with supporters. A series of workshops and key stakeholder engagement, tested prototype courtrooms spaces with outcomes informing key spaces and design principals. The six main courtrooms are adaptable with the capacity to accommodate multiple options and caseload requirements, they are secure and comfortable with separate spaces supporting juries, the judiciary, law enforcement officers, legal services, volunteers, staff and administrative services. It is imperative court participants feel they are treated equally and respectfully before the law, as justice space designers, it was important to deliver impartial and deferential design solutions. Project Architects: Architectus + GHD Woodhead + Guymer Bailey Architects Moscow has sent a note to London to express confusion over UK Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt's claims accusing the RT broadcaster of spreading disinformation and the Kremlin's "narratives," Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said on Wednesday, Urdu Point reports. In a May 2 speech on occasion of World Press Freedom Day, Hunt claimed that media like RT "want their viewers to believe that truth is relative and the facts will always fit the Kremlin's official narrative" even when "that narrative keeps changing." He also accused Russia's "weapons of disinformation" of broadcasting to the world "over 40 separate narratives" about the Salisburypoisoning attack. "We have sent a note to the British Foreign Office voicing bewilderment in connection with new odious statements by a member of Theresa May's government, including those about notorious 40 narratives. The fact that Jeremy Hunt allowed himself these statements, absolutely defiant statements, on World Press Freedom Day, shows the absolute lack of principles and complete disrespect of British politicians for the values of freedom of speech," Zakharova said. The Russian diplomat reiterated that claims that the "Kremlin came up with over 40 separate narratives" to explain the incident around former Russian double agent Sergei Skripal in the city of Salisbury was a well-known "fake." The Philadelphia Cultural Pass will provide free tickets to any of the roughly 40,000 Penn Medicine and 6,800 Drexel [University] employees working full-time or more than half-time. At the moment the supporting institutions are Penn Medicine and Drexel, which will provide operating funds to the Philadelphia Orchestra, Philadelphia Museum of Art, and Kimmel Center. The Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts is also a partner. The Philadelphia Inquirer 05.08.19 The Russian Foreign Ministry called on the Iranian authorities to abandon further steps to curtail compliance with the obligations under the JCPOA, and all countries involved in the nuclear deal to comply with their obligations and step up the implementation of the projects conducted in accordance with the agreements. This message is posted on the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Moscow with understanding reacted to Tehrans decision to temporarily suspend the fulfillment of a part of voluntarily taken obligations in the framework of JCPOA, while condemning the actions of the USA that unilaterally withdrew from the deal a year ago. The industry has taken a responsible call to infuse fresh funds in 'some very adverse circumstances', said COAI chief. Over the past few years, India's telecom market had become cut-throat where nearly a dozen players jostled for market share, pummelling the call rates to among the lowest in the world. (Representational Image) New Delhi: According to COAI Director General Rajan S Mathews, it shows the seriousness of the players to continue to fund their operations adequately. "Companies are facing severe economic turbulence from issues that could have been fixed by the government, viz 30 per cent levies and taxes that the government continues to extract from the industry. Plus the debt factor and its overhang," Mathews told PTI. The industry has taken a responsible call to infuse fresh funds in "some very adverse circumstances", he noted. "This, to my mind, is a responsible decision in some very adverse circumstances...responsible decision of promoters putting in money, showcase their faith in future of the industry and their ability to continue to operate...If you look, the last two years should not have given anybody that high level of confidence in wanting to do this," he said. Cellular Operators' Association of India (COAI) hopes that the new government post election, would set out a clear roadmap to ease the burden of levies on the telecom sector, and issues including cut in licence fee and spectrum charges would be taken up at the earliest. Citing the 'National Digital Communications Policy 2018' which prioritises universal coverage rather than revenue maximisation, Mathews said, "we understand, that the Prime Minister's Office has asked all departments to give 100 day action plan, and I believe that any action plan for the telecom department should clearly indicate this among the critical parameters." The players are showing their commitment to the long-term prospects of the sector, and their concerns around structural issues and licensing regime need to be fixed at the earliest, he said. "This type of rigidity which comes from a control-oriented licensing regime coupled with regulations which have to obviously support that rigidity...it becomes all the more difficult for mobile industry which is heavily focused on growth, technology and changes. I think we need to relook at this, quickly," Mathews added. Over the past few years, India's telecom market had become cut-throat where nearly a dozen players jostled for market share, pummelling the call rates to among the lowest in the world. Competition has only intensified since 2016, when Reliance Jio Infocomm, owned by Mukesh Ambani, stormed into the market and offered lifetime free calls and dirt cheap data. Jio's disruptive offerings forced rivals to slash rates, affecting profit margins. Since its launch, rivals have either merged, resorted to acquisitions or folded up, matching its high-speed 4G offering. Lately, the sector has seen a massive fund raising exercise - Vodafone Idea has concluded over Rs 25,000 crore rights issue, that was oversubscribed nearly 1.08 times. Bharti Airtel, too, is in the midst of a Rs 25,000 crore rights issue, which is slated to close on May 17. The lacklustre Q4 results have added to lack of investors interest along with the higher pledge by promoters. The Sensex fell for the sixth consecutive session, closing 487.50 points, or 1.27 per cent, down at 37,789.13 while the Nifty-50 closed at 11,359.45, down 138.45 points, or 1.20 per cent. Mumbai: Benchmark indices slumped more than 1.25 per cent yielding to weaker global and domestic sentiments over US-China trade war and the uncertain outcome of the Lok Sabha elections. The Sensex fell for the sixth consecutive session, closing 487.50 points, or 1.27 per cent, down at 37,789.13 while the Nifty-50 closed at 11,359.45, down 138.45 points, or 1.20 per cent. Intra-day, the Sensex crashed 518.81 points while the Nifty slipped 150.95 points. The Sensex has fallen 3.27 per cent, or 1,278.20 points, from its April 26 high of 39,067.33 and analysts expect the market to correct further. Foreign investors were net sellers of equities worth Rs 701.50 crore while the domestic institutional investors were net buyers by Rs 232.95 crore, provisional exchange data showed. The lacklustre Q4 results have added to lack of investors interest along with the higher pledge by promoters. Delhi, Haryana and Madhya Pradesh go to polls in the sixth phase of Lok Sabha elections scheduled for May 12. New Delhi: With polling for Lok Sabha elections in Delhi, Punjab, Chandigarh and Haryana scheduled on May 12 and 19, the BJP intends to further intensify its attack on former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi to bait the Congress into a war of words. The BJP is trying desperately to force the Congress into a debate as it would offer the party an opportunity to revive the issue of 1984 Sikh riots which spanned across all the regions going to polls in the last two phases of general elections. So far the Congress has not just tried to adroitly evade the issue, but Congress president Rahul Gandhi went to the extent of expressing his love for Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who has been spearheading the charge against his father. Mr Modi had said on Saturday, Your father was termed Mr Clean by his courtiers, but his life ended as Bhrastachari Number 1 (corrupt number 1). The Congress chief had responded to Mr Modis recent attack on his father who was assassinated in May 1991 with a tweet in which he sent the Prime Minister his love, and hugs. However, party general secretary Priyanka Gandhi had called the PMs remark an insult to a politician who had laid down his life for the country. The BJP also intends to raise the issue of the Bhopal Gas tragedy to link Rajiv Gandhi to the then Union Carbide chief, Warren Anderson. Saffron brigades controversial candidate, Sadhvi Pragya Thakur, has locked horns with Congress heavyweight and former chief minister Digvijay Singh in the constituency. Meanwhile, continuing his attacks on the Congress, Mr Modi on Wednesday launched a scathing counter-strike at Mr Gandhi with a list of abuses hurled at him before and after he become the Prime Minister. Speaking at an election rally in Haryanas Kurukshetra, Mr Modi said he had decided to speak about the various descriptors that had been used for him to unmask the veil of love that was being spoken about by Congress leaders. Do you want to hear what words they used for me from their dictionary of love? How they expressed their love, he said before listing several abusive words. BJP sources stated that Rajiv Gandhis name is being raked up by senior leadership of the party as it feels that there is need to bring out issues related to the former Prime Minister that have not been adequately addressed. The BJP feels that the victims of anti-Sikh riots in these states and Bhopal gas tragedy have not been financially and emotionally compensated. These are emotive issues and people in these regions still havent found closure, a BJP leader added. The Congress, however, continued to shy away from getting drawn into a slugfest over the former the Prime Minister and asked the BJP to explain the economic mess it has left the country in. Addressing reporters on Wednesday, former finance minister P. Chidambaram said, The political leadership is interfering in Central Statistical Organisation and ensuring that the true economic picture does not come out. Delhi, Haryana and Madhya Pradesh go to polls in the sixth phase of Lok Sabha elections scheduled for May 12. Punjab and Chandigarh will be voting on May 19. The BJP hopes to do well in Punjab, while it aims to retain a majority of the seats in Delhi, Haryana and Madhya Pradesh. Keep yourself updated on Lok Sabha Elections 2019 with our round-the-clock coverage -- breaking news, updates, analyses etc all. Happy reading. The high court, she pointed out, had set aside the notifications issued in relation to the powers of the Lt. governor. New Delhi: The lieutenant-governor of Puducherry, Kiran Bedi, on Wednesday moved the Supreme Court challenging an order of the single judge of the Madras high court clipping her powers as lieutenant-governor in the Union Territory. Solicitor-general Tushar Mehta, appearing for Ms Bedi, made a mention for urgent listing of the petition before a Bench of Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and Justice Deepak Gupta for early listing of the appeal. The bench agreed to consider the request as Ms Bedi submitted that the administration of Puducherry had been severely affected as a consequence of the judgment. At the outset, Ms Bedi said that though a writ appeal ought to have been filed, she had chosen to file an appeal in the apex court as the high court is closed for summer vacation and there is urgency in this matter. She said an important question of law has arisen in this appeal, viz whether the Union Territory of Puducherry can be considered as a state under the Constitution when the apex court had categorically ruled that Puducherry continued to be a Union Territory. The high court, she pointed out, had set aside the notifications issued in relation to the powers of the Lt. governor. Further, she wanted the court to decide whether L-G of Puducherry was bound by the aid and advice of the Council of Ministers despite there being a clear mandate in the Union Territories Act of 1963 that the L-G was not bound by the aid and advice of the CoM; whether UT of Delhi and UT of Puducherry can be treated alike despite the fact that the apex court had held that they fell in different categories. She pointed out that the high court had erroneously held that Puducherry was akin to a state and the Lt Governor was bound to act as per the aid and advice of the council of ministers. She said such a finding was incorrect. It might be recalled that YSRCP has decided to go with the K. Chandrashekar Rao-led Telangana Rashtra Samiti as a block for any post-poll alliance. New Delhi: With barely two weeks to go for declaration of Lok Sabha election results, hectic political activity has erupted in southern India following expectations of a fractured mandate. Even as TDP chief N. Chandrababu Naidu met Congress president Rahul Gandhi in Delhi on Wednesday, the Congress is understood to have quietly begun back-channel talks with the YSR Congress Party led by Jagan Mohan Reddy to shore up support in case of a hung Parliament. On Wednesday, Mr Naidu discussed plans with Mr Gandhi to hold a meeting of Opposition parties on May 21, two days ahead of Lok Sabha results to chalk out a post-poll alliance. CPI(M) general secretary Sitaram Yechury, however, said, Anything concrete will only happen after the results. Talking of alliances before that would be abstract. Congress sources said party leader K.V. Thomas is holding talks with leaders of the YSRCP. It might be recalled that YSRCP has decided to go with the K. Chandrashekar Rao-led Telangana Rashtra Samiti (TRS) as a block for any post-poll alliance. Mr Rao or KCR, as he is popularly called, has been talking to chief ministers and leaders of various parties, including Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan and Karnataka chief minister H.D. Kumaraswamy. However, he was snubbed by the DMK which first confirmed his meeting with party chief M.K. Stalin but later calling it off. Interestingly, Mr Rao is understood to have told Mr Kumarswamy, who heads a government in alliance with the Congress in Karnataka, to send feelers to the Congress for supporting a federal front or a Third Front dispensation in case the NDA fails to touch the magic figure of 272 on May 23. While TRS chief is looking at the possibility of heading a Third Front government, the Congress top brass feels that in case the party manages to get 140 seats it has a strong chance of forming the government with its own Prime Minister and it is towards this end that talks with various outfits are being initiated. Top sources in YSRCP said that though they have got feelers from the Congress, no official talks have taken place yet. Mr Jagan Mohan is on a vacation and is likely to return on May 16 and talks can take place only after that. The YSRCP chief is also likely to meet KCR after that. When asked about YSRCPs understanding with the TRS, Y.V. Subbareddy of YSRCP, said, Telangana chief minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao (KCR) has reaffirmed support for special category status to Andhra Pradesh. Our party will support any party which supports our cause. The cause of the two states would be taken up together, he told this newspaper. Recently, after a meeting with the TRS chiefs son, K.T. Rama Rao, Mr Jagan Mohan had said, If we look at the MP representation of each state, it is not much, which is why even with 25 MPs in AP when we demanded special status, nothing happened. But now with 17 MPs from Telangana joining hands, it will help our case and the Centre cannot ignore it. Though Mr Subbareddy refused to comment on Congress overtures, Mr Jagan Mohan had recently said that he has forgotten his old animosity with the Congress. Sources told this newspaper that the alliance committee of the Congress, led by former defence minister A.K. Antony, was exploring possible new allies for a post-election situation with a hung House. Keep yourself updated on Lok Sabha Elections 2019 with our round-the-clock coverage -- breaking news, updates, analyses etc all. Happy reading. The next hearing in the case will now take place on May 30 for a case management hearing in Nirav Modi's extradition case. During subsequent hearings, the court was told that Nirav Modi was the 'principal beneficiary' of the fraudulent issuance of letters of undertaking (LoUs) as part of a conspiracy to defraud PNB and then laundering the proceeds of crime. (Photo: File) London/Delhi: Fugitive diamond merchant Nirav Modi was denied bail by a UK court on Wednesday for the third time in his extradition case to India to face charges in the Punjab National Bank fraud and money laundering case amounting to up to USD 2 billion and will continue to be lodged in a London jail described by his lawyers as "unliveable". His bail, which had already been rejected twice before by Westminster Magistrates' Court in London, came up for a third attempt before Chief Magistrate Emma Arbuthnot, who ruled that while the doubling of security offered by Nirav Modi's lawyers did amount to a change in circumstances in order for her to hear the "renewed" bail plea, she still had similar concerns as before that he would fail to surrender before the court. "This is a large fraud and the doubling of security to 2 million pounds is not sufficient to cover a combination of concerns that he would fail to surrender (if bail is granted)," said Judge Arbuthnot. The next hearing in the case will now take place on May 30, the previously scheduled date for a case management hearing in Nirav Modi's extradition case. Nirav Modi, who has been lodged at Wandsworth prison in south-west London since his arrest in March, was brought up to the dock and sat behind a glass-panelled enclosure with two female prison officers. The 48-year-old, who was freshly-shaved and dressed in a light-blue shirt and dark trousers, could be seen making copious notes in a notebook during the entire course of the hearing. "His experience in custody has been vivid and damaging... he is willing to abide by any bail conditions imposed by the court because Wandsworth is unliveable and makes the effective preparation of his case virtually impossible," said his barrister Clare Montgomery, in an attempt to persuade the judge to grant bail on a strict 24-hour curfew at his posh Centrepoint apartment in the West End of London. "Suffice to say efforts to present him [by the government of India] as a diabolical mechanic and cold blooded, hardened criminal are completely false," Montgomery added. However, the judge was particularly concerned about Nirav Modi's "lack of community ties" in the UK, having been based in London for only a "short period of time" since 2017. And, while his lawyers sought to convince her otherwise with claims that two of his elder children were back in the UK for summer internships, the judge expressed doubts on the extent to which adult children can tie anyone down to a place. "Given the nature of the crime of sizeable fraud and that USD 60 million has been squirreled away by him personally...the interference of witnesses, destruction of servers and mobile phones...combined with a lack of community ties mean I still have doubts that he would fail to surrender," the judge said. She made particular note of a transcript of a conversation provided by the Indian authorities between Nirav Modi's brother, Nehal Modi, with one of the witnesses in the case, where it appeared that he was telling them what to say. It led her to dismiss the defence team's claims that the witnesses were in fact being "leant on" or intimidated by the Indian authorities. Montgomery characterised the case as a "classic white collar" crime that came with relatively low risk but the UK's Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), which represents the Indian government in the extradition proceedings, countered that in fact the case was "not an ordinary corporate case", with direct evidence of embezzlement of funds with the connivance of bank officers in India. "There is very credible evidence of interference with witnesses...they (former employees) were being told what to say. And, there is nothing to prevent a concerted attempt by Modi to abscond," said CPS barrister Nick Hearn. The court heard great details of how Nirav Modi's US-based brother, Nehal, interacted with former employees of companies associated with Nirav Modi and arranged for their flights to Cairo, Egypt, and was also said to be behind the destruction of "evidence" in the form of servers and mobile phones. Hearn also made reference to USD 60 million held in one of Nirav Modi's personal accounts, which indicated that there was a large scale of untraced "fraudulent funds", which Nirav Modi would have greater influence over in a "less secure environment outside jail". "There have been significant seizures in India of concrete assets, precious items [belonging to Modi]," Montgomery said, in an attempt to counter allegations that he would have substantial assets at his disposal were he to be released. She also raised the failure of the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to corroborate a previous claim of Modi having travelled to New York in February 2019 and repeated her previous submission that her client sees the UK as a "safe haven" and has chosen not to flee to any other country with which India does not have an extradition treaty. Nirav Modi's legal team, led by solicitor Anand Doobay, had previously offered 1 million pounds as security alongside an offer to meet stringent electronic tag restrictions on their client's movements, "akin to house arrest" - something they further bolstered on Wednesday by doubling the sum and offering a 24-hour electronic tag curfew. He was arrested by Scotland Yard officers in central London on March 19. During subsequent hearings, the court was told that Nirav Modi was the "principal beneficiary" of the fraudulent issuance of letters of undertaking (LoUs) as part of a conspiracy to defraud PNB and then laundering the proceeds of crime. The BJP has denied any wrongdoing and Mr Raina said on Wednesday that an internal party committee will be set up to probe the allegation. Srinagar: An alleged attempt by BJP leaders to bribe Leh-based reporters for favourable coverage has snowballed into a major political controversy with officials confirming, off the record, that a fact-finding inquiry into the incident has, prima facie, found merit in allegations that media persons were offered envelops filled with money. The BJP has denied any wrongdoing. The inquiry, conducted by Lehs deputy commissioner and election officer Avny Lavasa, followed a demand from National Conference leader Omar Abdullah, PDP president and former chief minister Mehbooba Mufti, the Congress and journalists bodies for an impartial probe into the May 2 incident. A video of the incident had also emerged showing envelopes being distributed at the press conference by Jammu and Kashmir BJP chief Ravinder Raina and former MLC Vikram Randhawa On May 4, Press Club Leh had accused the BJP of handing money to its members to report in the partys favour ahead of the Lok Sabha elections in Ladakh on May 6. The BJP has denied any wrongdoing and Mr Raina said on Wednesday that an internal party committee will be set up to probe the allegation. The saffron partys probe was announced even as a legislator named in the matter claimed the envelopes given to scribes had invitations to cover a political rally and not money. Mr Raina also said he will file a defamation case against Press Club Leh for naming him in the bribery complaint, which he said was politically motivated. According to a police complaint filed by the Press club, Mr Rania and Mr Randhawa tried to bribe media persons after a press conference held in Ladakhs main town to use their platform to influence the outcome of the election. Journalists accused the BJP leaders of slipping in a `500 note in each envelop given to four mediapersons at the press conference that preceded defence minister Nirmala Sitharamans rally. Tsewang Rigzin, one of the reporters who covered the presser, said that they were shocked to see `500 notes in envelopes. Feeling insulted, they returned the envelopes outright. We showed our anguish then and there at the BJPs audacity to bribe us, said the journalist. When one of the scribes asked BJP leaders about the content of the envelopes, he was told that it is a token of love, alleged a mediaperson. Some journalists tried to return the money to BJP leaders but they refused to accept it, said the journalist. Election officer Lavasa, who is the daughter of Election Commissioner Ashok Lavasa, said that steps have been initiated for filing an FIR. A statement issued by the Press Club of Leh said that the BJP leaders act was a clear violation of MCC and an attempt to belittle the dignity of media men in Leh. It said that the members of the Leh-based media fraternity have fought corruption and that it was now up to the authorities to take appropriate action in the matter. Weve done our duty. The ball is now in the authorities court, it said. Former chief minister Omar Abdullah, in a tweet, said, We expect @JmuKmrPolice & @SpokespersonECI @ECISVEEP to take cognisance of this complaint filed by the Press Club in Leh. Later he wrote on the micro-blogging site, In light of the CCTV footage purported to show BJP leaders attempting to bribe journalists in Leh, Im retweeting my original tweet with the letter of complaint by the Press Club Leh. Action must follow. PDP president Mehbooba Mufti tweeted, If a Congress/TMC/BSP/SP leader was caught trying to pay off media with such solid evidence, media wouldve gone hammer & tongs Why the radio silence & no hashtags? Glad to know that some have the guts to refuse. Proud of Avny Lavasa who put them in their place. Keep yourself updated on Lok Sabha Elections 2019 with our round-the-clock coverage -- breaking news, updates, analyses etc all. Happy reading. SC found no merit in the plea that was filed by relatives of those who had died with Rajiv Gandhi in Sriperumbudur in 1991. New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Thursday dismissed a plea that had objected to the Tamil Nadu government's decision to prematurely release former prime minister Rajiv Gandhi's 7 convicted assassins. The Supreme Court found no merit in the plea that was filed by relatives of those who had died with Rajiv Gandhi in Sriperumbudur in 1991. A bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi said, "All aspects were covered in the earlier constitution bench verdict in the case and therefore nothing survives in the case". In 2014, the then J Jayalalithaa-led government had decided to release seven convicts in the case. Former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi was assassinated by a suicide bomber in Sriperumbudur in Tamil Nadu on May 21, 1991. Taiwan which is approximately 180 km off China doesnt get recognition from Beijing as a separate country. New Delhi: Despite Chinas continuous interference, Taiwan wants to strengthen its ties with India. A senior official has said that Taiwan would engage with the new government in India and will undertake more official trips. Taiwan which is approximately 180 km off China doesnt get recognition from Beijing as a separate country. China doesnt appreciate Taiwan having diplomatic ties with other countries but has no issues with Taiwan maintaining trade and economic ties with foreign nations. Chung Kwang Tien, the representative of the Taipei Economic and Culture Centre in India, told Reuters that after the formation of new government in India, the two countries will build trade and cultural ties. This centre aids the companies of both the countries to expand business ties. China had protested the visit of a Taiwanese delegation to India in 2017. Tien said that India ranked among the highest priorities in Taiwans new policy that focussed on building ties with the South Asian nations. New Delhi is hosting the second Taiwan Expo in next week which would witness the participation of over 100 Taiwanese companies from diverse industries viz. electronics, artificial intelligence, healthcare and food processing. Taiwan has set up 14 language centres in Indian educational institutions to promote the Chinese language. Taiwan has four trade offices in India. The island nation has also sought Indias support to secure a place in the World Health Organisation. Prime Minister added that people had already seen how 'gathbandhan' governments were steeped in corruption in the past. Azamgarh: Mounting a blistering attack on the opposition, Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged the voters on Thursday not to vote for a "khichdi" (coalition) government. "Be wary of a 'khichdi' government," he told an election rally here. Stating that voting for the opposition alliance was fraught with danger, the Prime Minister said, "The 'mahagathbandhan' can only lead to anarchy and instability and make the country insecure." Azamgarh had become synonymous with terrorism, Modi said, adding that however, the scenario had changed since 2014, when the BJP-led government was formed at the Centre. "Earlier, all terror activities had links to Azamgarh. But what happened after 2014 is for all of you to see," he said. "How were bomb blasts brought under control in all the cities after 2014? How have terror activities been restricted only to Jammu and Kashmir now? It is because our government prioritised national interest. We entered Pakistan and attacked terrorists," he said amid applause from the audience. The Prime Minister added that people had already seen how "gathbandhan" governments were steeped in corruption in the past and cited the 2G scam among others. Keep yourself updated on Lok Sabha Elections 2019 with our round-the-clock coverage -- breaking news, updates, analyses etc all. Happy reading. A solemn ceremony has been held in Baku to mark the 74th anniversary of victory over fascism in World War Two, Trend reports. President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Commander-in-Chief Ilham Aliyev and First Lady Mehriban Aliyeva attended the ceremony. President, Commander-in-Chief Ilham Aliyev laid a wreath at the statue of Major General of Tank Troops, twice Hero of the Soviet Union Hazi Aslanov. President Ilham Aliyev and First Lady Mehriban Aliyeva posed for photographs together with veterans of World War Two. A guard of honor passed in front of President Ilham Aliyev under the accompaniment of a military march. President Ilham Aliyev and First Lady Mehriban Aliyeva met with family members of participant of World War Two, partisan, one of the prominent representatives of the Dutch resistance movement, Azerbaijani national hero of the Netherlands Mammad Mammadov and Mayor of the city of Oisterwijk Hans Janssen. The head of state and his wife then met with family members and close relatives of twice Hero of the Soviet Union Hazi Aslanov, and congratulated them on Victory Day. The ceremony was also attended by Prime Minister Novruz Mammadov, Parliament Speaker Ogtay Asadov, Head of the Presidential Administration Ramiz Mehdiyev and other officials. The BJP paid Rs 744 for a 'H/P Balangir-H/P Patharchera' trip by Modi on January 15, 2019,' the report said. New Delhi: The Congress on Thursday accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of making Indian Air Force jets his "own taxi" and paying "as low as" Rs 744 for using IAF aircraft for election trips. Congress' chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala cited a media report to attack the prime minister. "Distraction and fakery is your last resort. You have made Indian Air Force jets your own Taxi! You have paid as low as Rs 744 for using IAF jets for election trips!" Surjewala said. "Scared of your own sins haunting you, you are shamelessly pointing fingers on others!" he said, in an apparent reference to Modi's allegation that the late Rajiv Gandhi used INS Viraat as a "personal taxi" on a family vacation. The media report, based on an RTI, said the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) paid a total of Rs 1.4 crore to the IAF for 240 "non-official domestic trips" made by Modi since the start of his tenure as prime minister till January 2019. "In some cases, the amount paid seemed to be quite low. For example, the BJP paid Rs 744 for a 'H/P Balangir-H/P Patharchera' trip by Modi on January 15, 2019," the report said. A 16-year-old lion with skin cancer is receiving radiation therapy in a hospital in South Africa. Chaos is undergoing radiation therapy to treat the lesions caused by skin cancer on his nose. South Africa has no radiotherapy hospitals for animals, thus the lion is being treated in a hospital for humans. (Photo: Representational/Pixabay) Pretoria: In South Africa, patients at the Muelmed Mediclinic share a ward with Chaos, a 570lb lion suffering from skin cancer, reported the LADBible. The 16-year-old lion that lived at Lory Park Animal and Owl Sanctuary. Chaos is undergoing radiation therapy to treat the lesions caused by skin cancer on his nose. South Africa has no radiotherapy hospitals for animals, thus the lion is being treated by five radiotherapists and an oncologist in a hospital for humans. He is like our child, we will do anything we need for him, said Kara Heynis, his keeper at the sanctuary. She also said that his treatment is expensive, but absolutely worth it. We're a registered zoological facility so he was accompanied at all times and had all the necessary permits. We started the whole process of transporting him to the hospital at 10:30 and returned back home at 13:15, said radiation specialist Hanri Reynolds. Fortunately, there we no other human patients in the hospital when the lion was brought in. Currently, Chaos is being kept company by a female lion in his enclosure. He is being kept in a shaded area till his treatment is completed. Usually, animals that dont have fun, such as hippos, warthogs and elephants are more prone to skin cancer as compared to animals that have fur. Lions live around 14 years in the wild, but up to 22 years in captivity. Farmed lions that are sold to tourist attractions were recently found to be in an appalling condition in a South Africa zoo. These lions were infected by parasitic mites and were thus hairless. The skin condition, called mange, caused severe itching, scabs and skin lesions. A HSI report showed that up to 12,000 animals a year are bred on 200 farms. They are then sold to tourist centres or sent on safaris as an attraction, with the tourists unaware of the animals suffering. Malaysian Odissi dancer Ramli Ibrahim brings his much revered performance Odissi on High to the bay. While most classical dances are going through the age of experiments, Ramli a person with modern ideasdoesnt believe in experimenting just for the sake of doing something new. The Indian classical dance forms have inspired artists across the world. Among the list of artists enchanted by Indias cultural heritage is Malaysian Odissi dancer Ramli Ibrahim. Distinctive lyricism, sensuality in movements and the thribhanga three deflections of head, torso and hip position combined with the compelling music, bewitched Ramli at a very early age. I was completely taken over by Odissi when I first saw it and decided to learn it. However, on hindsight, I wonder if it was destined that Odissi chose me to be its vehicle instead of the other way round, says the founder of Kuala Lumpur based Sutra Dance theatre, who will be performing Odissi on High with his group at the National Centre for the Performing Arts. Ramlis strong artistic temperament came to the forefront during his childhood. Remembering his childhood, Ramli shares that as a kid, he would entertain his mothers guests and also worked in prominent role in radio series designed for children. My mothers guests still remember me as the kid who would perform at the drop of a hat. Somehow deep in my heart and soul, I knew that eventually I would find myself in the arts field, muses the dancer. The artist also attributes his initial success to his right physique and temperament. My dance development was rapid and it fetched me ballet-dancing opportunities in Western Australian Dance Company and in other professional productions, recollects the dancer. It was after he heard Pandit Raghunath Panigrahi singing one of the early 70s recordings of Odissi music that he fell in love with it. I learnt Odissi later, as at that time it was difficult to find an odissi dance teacher, informs the self-proclaimed contemporary and modern choreographer. In his four decade-association with Odissi dance, Ramli came to Puri in 1970s to learn the dance from late Vijayakumar Senapati. Later when he was performing in New York, he met the famous Odissi dancer, Indrani Rehman who advised him to learn further from Guru Debaprasad Das. It was after his return to Malaysia from Australia that he founded his own dance and theatre company Sutra as one of the major institutions of Odissi, nationally and internationally. While most classical dances are going through the age of experiments, Ramli a person with modern ideasdoesnt believe in experimenting just for the sake of doing something new. My motivation for creating new works is deeper than just to create sensational pieces to impress audience. I usually pay a great deal of attention to the concept of what I want to explore, before embarking on a new work, claims the dancer, and adds that a work can be traditional or modern, but a choreographer or director must be aware of the various parameters involved when dealing with a classical genre. Ramli with his group has collaborated with Bichitrananda Swain of Rudrakshya Foundation in Bhubaneswar for this performance, which is co-artistically directed by both the directors. The production will represent a significant India-Malaysia cultural collaboration. Today, at 6.30 pm, NCPA Shaurya Technosoft Pvt Ltd is providing the cattle camps management system to the government under the corporate social responsibility. According to the GR, the attendance of the cattle would be marked through the CCMS. This will be availed free of cost by the cattle camps operators, who will enter the numbers of the cattle in their camps. As per the attendance of the cattle's, the government will give the subsidy to the fodder camp operators. Mumbai: The state government has planned to register cattle that are tethered in fodder camps via a mobile application. The state, which is facing a severe drought, has been running 1,284 fodder camps in 12 districts, which are witnessing drought. A senior official said the relief and rehabilitation (R&R) department has been developing this app in order to ensure transparency while providing fodder to cattle with a private entity. A tag with a barcode will be attached to the cattle. The R&R department has come up with a government resolution (GR) pertaining to the barcode to avail the cattle. Shaurya Technosoft Pvt Ltd is providing the cattle camps management system (CCMS) to the government under the corporate social responsibility (CSR). According to the GR, the attendance of the cattle would be marked through the CCMS. This will be availed free of cost by the cattle camps operators, who will enter the numbers of the cattle in their camps. As per the attendance of the cattle's, the government will give the subsidy to the fodder camp operators. Sandeep Jagdale, nodal officer of Shaurya Technosoft Pvt Ltd for barcode and cattle camp management system, said, During drought period Government provides about Rs 90 per cattle for fodder and water supply. Taking advantage of this situation, some cattle camp operators tried to show an exaggerated count of animals to claim for bogus funds. Government is not having enough manpower to check the actual count of animals in each cattle camp on a daily basis. Due to this, the government loses public money. We had developed CCMS in 2012 and a large amount of funds were saved in Satara District. In this system, each animal is given ear tag with a unique barcode which needs to be scanned using android application for registering the presence of that animal in camp. The government will get the actual count of each camp on the web portal from cattle camps using this IT based solution. This will save huge government funds. City NCP to adopt cattle shed in beed, Solapur The Mumbai unit of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) is going to adopt a cattle shed in Beed or Solapur district as a sign of the partys solidarity with distressed farmers. Further, all NCP corporators have been directed to donate one months salary to the party trust, which in turn will extend support to farmers in drought-affected areas. The decision was taken at a meeting of the Mumbai NCP Wednesday. Mumbai NCP president Sachin Ahir confirmed the same. The Mumbai unit of the NCP also discussed the Assembly election scheduled later this year and its preparation for the same in light of the Congress-NCP combine slated to fight it together. How the Mumbai unit can help the NCP trust which will extend its support to farmers in drought-hit areas was another topic of discussion. Mr Ahir told The Asian Age, We, on behalf of Mumbaikars, are thinking of adopting a cattle shed in Beed or Solapur. All nine NCP corporators will donate one months salary to the NCP trust for drought relief. The presidents of all six districts have been asked to come up with a report on which seats they have a plan to contest the election along with the names of the candidates by June 15, 2019, he said. Also discussed at the meeting was the cleaning and de-silting of major storm water drainage channels of the city. Leaders of respective districts have been asked to take pictures of the drainage if not cleaned and send the same to the Mumbai unit which would then meet the BMC chief Friday to seek a solution to the problem. The iftar meal includes dates, fresh fruits, snacks, juice, water and biryani. Saji Cheriyan, 49, who hails from Kerala's Kayamkulam, built the mosque last year for Muslim workers living in a worker accommodation that he rented out to 53 companies in Fujairah. (Photo: Facebook) Dubai: An Indian Christian businessman, who built a mosque for Muslim workers in the UAE, is serving iftar meals to nearly 800 workers during the ongoing month of Ramzan. Saji Cheriyan, 49, who hails from Kerala's Kayamkulam, built the mosque last year for Muslim workers living in a worker accommodation that he rented out to 53 companies in Fujairah. He built the Mariam Umm Eisa (Mary, the Mother of Jesus) mosque after he saw workers spending their earnings on taking taxis to go to the nearest mosque to offer prayers during the holy month. Ramzan this year began on May 7. Cheriyan, who landed in the UAE in 2003 with just a few hundred dirhams, hosts iftar for about 800 people including workers and other senior employees of various companies at an air conditioned convention centre in the same complex, the Gulf News reported. "The mosque opened on the 17th night of Ramadan last year. So, I could offer iftar to the worshippers only for the remaining days. From this year, I would be doing it every day," he was quoted as saying by the newspaper. The iftar meal includes dates, fresh fruits, snacks, juice, water and biryani. "I have made arrangements to offer different types of biryani so that they dont get bored eating the same dish every iftar," he said. Abdul Qayum, a 63-year-old Pakistani bus driver, who had iftar on Wednesday, appreciated Cheriyan's efforts. "The world needs people like him. If there are no people like him, the world will end. We are praying for him. Allah will bless him." Vajas Abdul Wahid, an Indian employed as assistant manager with a company, said there are employees of more than 50 companies living in the area. "Senior employees and labourers are staying in separate accommodations. But, when we come here, we are all equal. We pray and have iftar together," he added. The mosque in the East Ville Real Estate complex in Al Hayl Industrial Area can accommodate 250 worshippers at a time. Facilities for another 700 to pray in the interlocked courtyard of the mosque, which will be shaded by the time it opens, have also been arranged. Many among the minorities, especially Muslims, live in a state of insecurity and fear in the wake of lynchings in the name of protecting the cow. Who is accountable for what has happened or not happened since the 2014 general election? Whose report card should be up for public scrutiny? Should questions to, and about the dead, take precedence over questions to and about those in power? Ordinarily, these are questions which would be of interest only to those preoccupied with planchets and ouija board sessions and summoning of dead spirits. But these are extraordinary times and as the campaign nears the finish line, these questions are now pivotal to the ongoing poll discourse. Addressing a recent rally at Pratapgarh, UP, Prime Minister Narendra Modi claimed former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, father of Congress president Rahul Gandhi, died as Bhrashtachari No. 1 (Corrupt No. 1). Since then, the Opposition and countrys vocal commentariat have been jousting with spokespersons of the ruling BJP and Mr Modis phalanx of admirers about the propriety of using such words to describe a former Prime Minister who was assassinated. There has been a lot of talk about the sheer grossness of taking potshots at the dead who cant hit back. Opposed to this point of view is the question whether distasteful remarks targeted at Mr Modi did not merit a counter. As I see it, the issue right now is not chiefly about civility or manners, though these matter a lot. Much as we hate to be bombarded with abusive speech 24/7 , it is glaringly obvious that neither PM Modi nor any of the others in his party who have been ceaselessly focusing on the alleged misdeeds of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi killed by a LTTE woman suicide bomber in Sriperumbudur, Tamil Nadu, on May 21, 1991 is bothered what his political opponents, critics in the commentariat or the genteel crowd think. It is equally obvious that the main aim now is to rile up and stoke passions of the BJPs core support base. Led by Mr Modi, BJP campaigners are mentioning Rajiv Gandhi repeatedly to remind voters in Punjab about the 1984 riots and voters in Bhopal about the gas leak from the Union Carbide factory. These are areas that have not voted yet. As for the corruption charge, it is important to remember that the Delhi high court had exonerated Rajiv Gandhi in the Bofors case during the Atal Behari Vajpayee era. Still, if it is going to be a no-holds-barred campaign encompassing the past as much as the present, let us go the whole hog. Let us discuss threadbare the unanswered questions on the Bofors deal and the ongoing Rafale controversy, the shameful 1984 anti-Sikh riots under the watch of the Congress and the heinous 2002 riots in Gujarat when Mr Modi was the states chief minister. Shall we go back to every assassination in independent India, starting with the killing of Mahatma Gandhi? In a flourishing democracy, there are no taboo topics, nor issues that cant be discussed. In the United States, there is continuing public fascination about John F. Kennedy and his death. Conspiracy theories still swirl around the Kennedy assassination though the then President was fatally shot by former US Marine Lee Harvey Oswald on November 22, 1963 over 55 years ago. Its perfectly legit for academics and analysts to examine the good deeds and misdeeds of leaders past and present, but since this has entered the election campaign, we can ask questions about accountability in the recent as well as distant past. But when we vote, we have to ask, who will shape our future? Is it the dead or those elected to govern us for the next five years? Having travelled to small towns and villages in northern India in recent weeks, it is clear to me that people are worried about the problems of the immediate past farmers distress, job crisis, lingering aftereffects of the 2016 demonetisation and anxious about the immediate future. Many among the minorities, especially Muslims, live in a state of insecurity and fear in the wake of lynchings in the name of protecting the cow. What aggravates the situation is the public support the cow vigilantes sometimes get from those in power. This is not to say that those opposing the BJP are all angels clearly, many are not but this election is clearly about Narendra Modi and the good, bad and ugly part of his partys governance record. That is inevitable as he has been heading Indias federal government for the last five years. Instead, the BJP appears to want voters to constantly think about what went wrong during the Rajiv Gandhi era, nearly 30 years ago, or during the administration of Jawaharlal Nehru, Indias first PM. The primary debate is not about good manners versus bad manners, though as an Indian citizen, I must say the constant drip-drip of foul speech is injurious to health. The primary issue is about demanding accountability of those who were elected and tasked to govern this country. What Nehru did or did not do on national security matters is of less concern than the seeming intelligence failure that contributed to the Pulwama terror attack in which over 40 CRPF personnel were killed as recently as February. The dead have featured prominently in the current political discourse and stump speeches. Nehru died in 1964. But he lives on in the social media with Nehru-baiting emerging as one of the most popular pastimes of the rabid among the BJP supporters. The other day, a BJP spokesperson also made Mahatma Gandhi a poll issue by observing during a TV panel discussion that rural Indians believe that Congress president Rahul Gandhi is the Mahatmas grandson. One wonders which rural Indians he had spoken to. The farmers in distress? Those reeling under drought? Or was there an assumption on his part that rural Indians the majority of people in this country are incredibly ignorant? Human beings are fallible. So are governments. Mistakes happen despite the best efforts. The most meticulously crafted plans go awry. The important thing is not to duck the inconvenient questions. The important thing is to stay focused on the present because we, the people, live in the present and look towards the future. With just a few days left before the elections draw to a close, one needs to remain focused on the here and now and questions should be asked of the living: those who are in power and those who aspire to be in power. Samsung is close to announcing a new launch date for the Galaxy Fold indicating that the device is not dead. Koh revealed that the launch date would not be too late which could indicate that the Fold could launch before the end of this month. It was recently reported that Samsung began cancelling all preorders for the Galaxy Fold and those who wanted the device no matter how long the delay, they had to contact the South Korean tech giant regarding the same. Now, in what may come as great news for Samsung as well as those looking to buy the device, Samsung is believed to be announcing a new launch date in a few days time. As per reports stemming from South Korea, The Korean Herald claims that Samsung is near to announcing a new launch date indicating that the smartphone giant has resolved any issues that were affecting the devices. Speaking on the issue, Samsungs CEO DJ Koh has stated that Samsung has reviewed the defect caused from substances (that entered the device)." The Galaxy Fold manufacturer will arrive at a conclusion on the US launch date in a couple of days. The Samsung Galaxy Fold was scheduled to be launched in the US on April 26; however, the date was scrapped after some early reviews started showing some unforeseen problems. Later, Samsung began sending out emails to those who had pre-ordered the device, indicating that their Galaxy Fold orders would be automatically cancelled if the handset did not ship before May 31. While this did not instil confidence in those who pre-ordered it, the new comments by Koh indicate that Samsung has gone back to the drawing board and issued a suitable fix for the screen issues. Koh revealed that the launch date would not be too late which could indicate that the Fold could launch before the end of this month. While we wait for further word from Samsung regarding the launch of the Galaxy Fold, this should appease those who are holding out for this brand new smartphone category from the tech giant. Donald Trump has threatened to impose additional tariffs on Chinese goods beginning on Friday. 'You see the tariffs we're doing?' Trump told a rally with supporters in Florida. (Photo: File) Panama City Beach: President Donald Trump said on Wednesday that China "broke the deal" in trade talks with Washington and would face stiff tariffs if no agreement is reached. "You see the tariffs we're doing?" Trump told a rally with supporters in Florida. "Because they broke the deal. ... They broke the deal. So they're flying in. The vice premier tomorrow is flying in, but they broke the deal. They can't do that. So they'll be paying. If we don't make the deal, nothing wrong with taking in more than USD 100 billion a year." Trump has threatened to impose additional tariffs on Chinese goods beginning on Friday after China backtracked on substantial commitments it made during ongoing trade talks, top US trade officials said this week. The United States became the first country to recognise the Golan Heights as part of Israel on March 25. On April 30, Israel's Foreign Affairs and Information Minister, Yisrael Katz said that a train stop in the Old City of Jerusalem would be named after Trump. (Photo: File) Tel Aviv: A square in the central Israeli city of Petah Tikvah will be officially renamed after United States President Donald Trump on July 4, the city's mayor has said. Earlier this week, Rami Greenberg said he has decided to name the square adjacent to the City Hall after Trump because of "his unqualified support for the State of Israel," the Times of Israel reported. The mayor added that he will invite the US ambassador to Israel, David Friedman, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, government ministers, and other renown public figures to attend the renaming ceremony. Last month, Netanyahu had said he would name a new community in the Golan Heights after the US President to thank him for recognising Israel's sovereignty over the area, which Israel captured from Syria during the Six-Day War in 1967 and annexed in 1981. The United States became the first country to recognise the Golan Heights as part of Israel on March 25. On April 23, in a video message posted on YouTube, Netanyahu had said, "After the Passover holiday, I intend to bring to the government a resolution calling for a new community on the Golan Heights named after President Donald J. Trump." On April 30, Israel's Foreign Affairs and Information Minister, Yisrael Katz said that a train stop in the Old City of Jerusalem would be named after Trump. Katz tweeted, "Here, in the Old City of Jerusalem, we will build the Western Wall & Temple Mount train station. It will be named after @realDonaldTrump, who made history and recognised Jerusalem as the capital of Israel." "The official announcement will take place on Israel's Independence Day," he added. President of the United States Donald Trump has ordered to extend for one more year a set of unilateral sanctions against Syria, the White House said in a statement, TASS reports. "The regimes brutal war on the Syrian people, who have been calling for freedom and a representative government, not only endangers the Syrian people themselves, but also generates instability throughout the region," the statement quoted President Trump as saying. "The Syrian regimes actions and policies, including pursuing and using chemical weapons, supporting terrorist organizations, and obstructing the Lebanese governments ability to function effectively continue to foster the rise of extremism and sectarianism and pose an unusual and extraordinary threat to the national security, foreign policy, and economy of the United States," Trump stated in his message to the Congress. "For these reasons, I have determined that it is necessary to continue in effect the national emergency declared with respect to this threat and to maintain in force the sanctions to address this national emergency," the US president said. AstraZeneca today announced top-line results from the pooled cardiovascular (CV) safety analyses of the global Phase III programme for roxadustat, a first-in-class hypoxia-inducible-factor prolyl hydroxylase inhibitor (HIF-PHI). The global pivotal Phase III trials evaluated roxadustat for treatment of anaemia in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) across the non-dialysis-dependent (NDD), incident (newly-initiated) dialysis (ID), and stable dialysis patient groups. These pooled CV safety assessments of roxadustat are part of the overall benefit/risk assessment that will inform discussions with regulatory authorities. One of the key CV safety endpoints is major adverse CV events (defined as MACE), evaluating a composite of all-cause mortality, stroke and myocardial infarction in pooled analyses comparing roxadustat vs. placebo in NDD and vs. epoetin alfa in dialysis-dependent (DD) patients. Another key CV safety endpoint evaluated MACE plus heart failure requiring hospitalisation and unstable angina requiring hospitalisation (defined as MACE+). Pooled MACE/MACE+ in NDD patients In the pooled analysis of over 4,300 patients, and based on the totality of the adjudicated evidence, the MACE/MACE+ analyses between roxadustat and placebo showed no clinically-meaningful difference. Pooled MACE/MACE+ in ID patients In the pool of 1,500 ID patients, a pre-specified sub-population of DD patients, MACE/MACE+ results indicate that ID patients on roxadustat do better than those who are on epoetin alfa. ID patients are a better population to compare roxadustat vs. epoetin alfa than the stable dialysis population, where patients are stable not only on dialysis but also on erythropoietin. Pooled MACE/MACE+ in DD patients In the pooled analysis of around 4,000 patients, and based on the totality of the adjudicated evidence, the MACE/MACE+ analyses between roxadustat and epoetin alfa showed no clinically-meaningful difference. Mene Pangalos, Executive Vice President, R&D BioPharmaceuticals, said: We are pleased to report these data from the largest clinical programme in the world evaluating this new class of medicines. These results add to the growing body of positive evidence to support roxadustat for the treatment of anaemia in chronic kidney disease patients, following our announcement that the primary efficacy endpoints were met for the OLYMPUS and ROCKIES trials in December 2018. There is a significant unmet medical need among patients living with chronic kidney disease, and we look forward to working with FibroGen to prepare for regulatory submissions of roxadustat. Further analyses of overall safety are ongoing and will inform the benefit/risk profile. AstraZeneca and FibroGen Inc. (FibroGen) will begin discussions with the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to prepare for regulatory submission, which is anticipated in the second half of 2019. Roxadustat is currently approved in China for the treatment of patients with anaemia in DD CKD. About roxadustat Roxadustat is a HIF-PHI that promotes erythropoiesis by increasing endogenous production of erythropoietin and improving iron regulation and overcoming the negative impact of inflammation on haemoglobin synthesis and red blood-cell production by downregulating hepcidin. Use of roxadustat has been shown to induce coordinated erythropoiesis, increasing red blood-cell count while maintaining plasma erythropoietin levels within or near normal physiologic range, in multiple subpopulations of CKD patients, including in the presence of inflammation and without a need for supplemental intravenous iron. About the global Phase III clinical programme FibroGen, the originator, and AstraZeneca are collaborating on the development and commercialisation of roxadustat for the treatment of anaemia in patients with CKD in the US, China, and other global markets. FibroGen and Astellas Pharma Inc. (Astellas) are collaborating on the development and commercialisation of roxadustat for the treatment of anaemia in patients with CKD in territories including Japan, Europe, the Commonwealth of Independent States, the Middle East, and South Africa. The global Phase III programme consists of more than 9,000 patients and was conducted by AstraZeneca, FibroGen and Astellas. The OLYMPUS, ALPS and ANDES trials evaluated roxadustat vs. placebo in NDD patients; HIMALAYAS evaluated roxadustat vs. epoetin alfa in ID patients; and ROCKIES, SIERRAS and PYRENEES evaluated roxadustat vs. epoetin alfa in DD patients. The AstraZeneca-sponsored trial OLYMPUS demonstrated a statistically-significant and clinically-meaningful improvement in haemoglobin vs. placebo in NDD patients. The AstraZeneca-sponsored trial ROCKIES demonstrated a statistically-significant improvement in haemoglobin vs. epoetin alfa in DD patients. In the CV pooled safety analyses, safety was characterised based on a number of key CV analyses from the Phase III programme, including MACE outcomes and MACE+ outcomes (MACE plus hospitalisation for unstable angina and hospitalisation for heart failure outcomes). Overall, the analyses will evaluate the totality of evidence for roxadustat and assess the overall benefit-risk profile, to overcome potential bias of a single-arm trial analysis. About anaemia in CKD Anaemia can be a serious medical condition in which patients have insufficient red blood cells and low levels of haemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen to cells throughout the body.1,2 Anaemia in CKD is associated with increased risk of hospitalisation, CV complications and death,3 also frequently causing significant fatigue, cognitive dysfunction and decreased quality of life.4 Severe anaemia is common in patients with CKD, cancer, myelodysplastic syndrome, inflammatory diseases and other serious illnesses. Anaemia is particularly prevalent in patients with CKD, which affects more than 200 million patients worldwide and is generally a progressive disease characterised by gradual loss of kidney function that may eventually lead to kidney failure. In the US, according to the United States Renal Data System, a majority of dialysis-eligible CKD patients are currently on dialysis. Of the approximately 507,000 patients receiving dialysis in the US as of 2016, approximately 80% were being treated with erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESA) for anaemia.5 Patients seldom receive ESA treatment until they initiate dialysis therapy. About AstraZeneca in CV, Renal & Metabolism (CVRM) CV, renal and metabolism together form one of AstraZenecas main therapy areas and a key growth driver for the Company. By following the science to understand more clearly the underlying links between the heart, kidneys and pancreas, AstraZeneca is investing in a portfolio of medicines to protect organs and improve outcomes by slowing disease progression, reducing risks and tackling co-morbidities. Our ambition is to modify or halt the natural course of CVRM diseases and potentially regenerate organs and restore function, by continuing to deliver transformative science that improves treatment practices and CV health for millions of patients worldwide. About AstraZeneca AstraZeneca is a global, science-led biopharmaceutical company that focuses on the discovery, development and commercialisation of prescription medicines, primarily for the treatment of diseases in three therapy areas - Oncology, Cardiovascular, Renal & Metabolism and Respiratory. AstraZeneca operates in over 100 countries and its innovative medicines are used by millions of patients worldwide. China has rejected accusations made by the United States of backtracking in trade talks and warned it would not "capitulate to any pressure" as the two sides head into make-or-break negotiations. "The US has assigned a lot of labels, such as backtracking, going back on one's word, and so on. Lots of promises have been foisted on China," Chinese commerce ministry spokesman Gao Feng told reporters in Beijing on Thursday, Al Jazeera reports. "China will not capitulate to any pressure, and we have the determination and ability to defend our own interests," Gao said, warning that it "has already prepared for all possible situations". The US has raised the stakes with plans to increase tariffs on $200bn in Chinese goods from 10 to 25 percent at 12:01am (04:01GMT) on Friday, prompting Beijing to vow to hit back with "necessary countermeasures". Gao's comments came as a Chinese delegation led by Vice Premier Liu He was set to hold talks in Washington on Thursday and Friday. The talks are aimed at salvaging the trade deal that appeared to be unravelling after US President Donald Trump accused China of breaking it and promised to impose more tariffs if no agreement is reached. HP AMG Crossover buyers are probably the laziest researchers ever. They don't seem to care about easy mods, reliability surveys, and even value. That's why best-sellers like the Hyundai Tucson or VW Tiguan are among the least searched titles on our website and Google.Will the GLB be like that? It's hard to tell at this point, but Mercedes hasn't made a dud in many years. This thing has all the appeal of the A-Class it's based on, but wrapped in a much more practical package. Heck, they're even making it in Mexico and China to keep production close to core markets.This latest spy video from Automotive Mike shows the GLB being put through its paces. At over 16 minutes, the footage is insanely abundant. There were a few surprises, but not big ones. For example, the throaty exhaust sound caught us off guard a little considering there were no visible tips. We're probably dealing with the GLB 250, a direct rival for the new Audi Q3 and its American 2-liter turbo setup.Over in Europe, the majority of models will have somewhere between 150 and 190, thanks to Mercedes' new 2-liter diesel and the 1.3-liter that was co-developed with Renault. That partnership is rumored to be falling apart, but for the next couple of years, the GLB should still have an influx of French engine technology.It's obvious that the normal GLB doesn't belong on the track; it leans in the corners too much. But that's a good thing if, like any normal person, you expect your CUV to be comfortable. For the hardcore folks, Mercedes is also developing anGLB, which at this point is expected to be of the 300 horsepower (a GLB 35 4Matic ).The GLB is bigger and more practical than the GLA that came before it. Thanks to its upright body, the model used to be called "the baby G-Class," but we think it has way more curves. The practicality will be top-notch, thanks to sliding rear seats, wider trunk opening, and taller greenhouse. kW As it happens, the racing driver and the Land Down Under go a long, long way back. Out of 17 outings in a Formula 1 car, Button managed to score three wins in Australia at Albert Park in Melbourne. Not bad at all considering how for forgetful his final years with McLaren were, an era when Ron Dennis was still around and the British team was supplied with power units by Honda.The record-setting lap at Mount Panorama in Bathurst is the fifth and final leg of the series that Honda started in 2018. Not a bad way to end this adventure considering the fifth and final leg also happens to be the first one outside of Europe , dont you think?The Honda Civic Type R really is the perfect vehicle for a time attack challenge like this. And its 100 percent a road-legal car thats straight off the production line, so to do a 2-minute 35-second lap is fantastic, said Button. Its definitely an exciting car for enthusiasts.But wait, theres more! Honda of Australia celebrates 50 years of existence , and not that long ago, a handful of gold chrome-wrapped machines were put together to mark this milestone. Machines as in everything from a lawn mower to a generator, CBR1000RR Fireblade motorcycle, the Civic Type R, and NSX hybrid supercar.Over in the Oz, the Civic Type R is available in a feature-packed specification. Thats only one trim level, and pricing starts at 51,990 dollars. The question is, what do you get for that hard-earned cash?First things first, four-wheel adaptive dampers with three driving modes. The list of go-faster goodies also consists of Brembo brakes on all corners of the car, 20-inch wheels wrapped in Continental SportContact 6 tires, Honda Sensing driver-assist suite, and the 2.0-liter VTEC Turbo four-cylinder engine that develops 320 PS (235) and 400 Nm (295 pound-feet) of torque. A Republican backlash has followed the decision by the Republican-led Senate Intelligence Committee to subpoena Donald Trump Jr. in relation to the Russia investigation. Be smart: Senate Intel Chair Richard Burr (R-N.C.) may be more resilient to this kind of pressure than most Republicans would be. Hes not running for re-election, and prides himself on running a committee that has remained largely bipartisan and resistant to outside pressures. Still, hell likely face an onslaught from Don Jr.'s many allies that may rival the kind of attacks anti-Trump senators like Bob Corker and Jeff Flake endured before their retirements from politics. Worth noting: The committee sent Trump Jr. the subpoena several weeks ago, per sources familiar well before Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell said it was time to move on from the Russia probe on the Senate floor earlier this week. A source close to Don Jr. tells me: Don is a private citizen, who has already been cleared by Mueller after a two-year investigation. He has done 8-9 hours of testimony in front of Senate Intel already and 27 hours of testimony in front of various committees in total. When he originally agreed to testify in front of the Senate Intel Committee in 2017, there was an agreement between Don and the Committee that he would only have to come in and testify a single time as long as he was willing to stay for as long as theyd like, which Don did. Don continues to cooperate by producing documents and is willing to answer written questions, but no lawyer would ever agree to allow their client to participate in what is an obvious P.R. stunt. What they're saying: Sen. Rand Paul (R-Ky.): "Apparently the Republican chair of the Senate Intel Committee didnt get the memo from the Majority Leader that this case was closed." (R-Ky.): "Apparently the Republican chair of the Senate Intel Committee didnt get the memo from the Majority Leader that this case was closed." House Republican Leader Kevin McCarthy: "@DonaldJTrumpJr has already spent dozens of hours testifying in front of Congressional committees. Endless investigationsby either partywon't change the fact that there was NO collusion. It's time to move on. Its time to focus on ISSUES, not investigations." "@DonaldJTrumpJr has already spent dozens of hours testifying in front of Congressional committees. Endless investigationsby either partywon't change the fact that there was NO collusion. It's time to move on. Its time to focus on ISSUES, not investigations." Rep. Lee Zeldin (R-N.Y.): "Weak & ridiculous for Senate to perpetuate the Russia Collusion Delusion by continuing to harass @DonaldJTrumpJr. They should NOT be taking orders from unhinged resistance Dems. Let's work together to help POTUS move US forward." (R-N.Y.): "Weak & ridiculous for Senate to perpetuate the Russia Collusion Delusion by continuing to harass @DonaldJTrumpJr. They should NOT be taking orders from unhinged resistance Dems. Let's work together to help POTUS move US forward." White House chief of staff Mick Mulvaney called it "bad form," for the Republican-led Senate Intelligence Committee to subpoena Trump Jr. without providing advance notice, telling CBS News: "I have no difficulty with bipartisanship, but to subpoena the president of the United States's son and not at least get a heads-up..." called it "bad form," for the Republican-led Senate Intelligence Committee to subpoena Trump Jr. without providing advance notice, telling CBS News: "I have no difficulty with bipartisanship, but to subpoena the president of the United States's son and not at least get a heads-up..." President Trump himself told reporters on Thursday that he was "very surprised" that his son was subpoenaed: "I saw Richard Burr saying there was no collusion two or three weeks ago. ... [Don Jr.] has now testified for 20 hours or something, a massive amount of time.' Go deeper ... Timeline: Here's what we know about Trump Tower Moscow U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Thursday canceled a scheduled visit to Greenland to return to Washington, D.C., amid heightened tension over Iran, AP first reported. Why it matters: Iran's President Hassan Rouhani said Wednesday, on the 1st anniversary of President Trumps withdrawing the U.S. from the Iran nuclear deal, he would suspend key nuclear deal commitments and would increase uranium enrichment if new terms weren't reached within 60 days. Hours later, Trump announced sanctions on Iranian metal industries. The big picture: Pompeo canceled a planned visit to Germany Tuesday to make an unscheduled trip to Baghdad "to talk with the Iraqi leadership, based on some very specific threats we had about Iranian activity," he told Sky News in the U.K. The State Department said Pompeo would press on with a restoration of a permanent U.S. diplomatic presence in Greenland, according to AP. Go deeper: The Trump administration says Nepal is central to its strategy in the Indo-Pacific, but the small South Asian country is already home to a battle for influence between its giant neighbors: China and India. Why it matters: Nepal is a signatory to Beijings Belt and Road initiative, and the government sees a railway deal with China as a game changer for the country, Foreign Minister Pradeep Gyawali tells Axios. The U.S. is also flexing its muscles, though, while India is desperate to keep Nepal in its sphere of influence. Gyawali says investment from the big powers is welcome, but Nepal wont take sides in their great power contest. India remains Nepals largest trading partner and maintains close cultural and economic ties. However, relations deteriorated rapidly following an unofficial border blockade in the aftermath of a devastating earthquake in Nepal in 2015. Nepal has a longstanding military relationship with India, and has conducted joint exercises with Delhi, the U.S. and U.K. In 2017, however, Nepal conducted its first joint exercises with China. China offers Nepal an attractive alternative to Indian domination. It's Nepal's largest source of foreign direct investment and has rapidly spread its tentacles in South Asia. China is now the largest trading partner of Bangladesh, Maldives and Pakistan. A protocol signed at the recent Belt and Road summit in Beijing, which Nepals president attended, allows Nepal to access 7 Chinese ports, ending dependence on India for third-country trade. Even more significant is a railway project which would connect China to Kathmandu, and eventually to Nepal's border with India. The multi-billion dollar project would pass through some of the worlds most difficult mountainous topography. China's Belt and Road investments could boost Nepals trade by 35% to 45%, according to one estimate. The U.S. also granted Nepal $500 million for infrastructure development, in 2017. Meanwhile, U.S. diplomats have cautioned Nepal that Chinese investment could lead to unsustainable debts sparking a public rebuke from Beijing. The attention from the U.S. provides an opportunity for Kathmandu to look beyond Delhi and Beijing. However, it also puts the impoverished Himalayan nation in the awkward situation of having to strike a balance with rival powers. The big picture: Nepal has geographical limitations. It cant antagonize India and it cant abandon China, says Sridhar Khatri, former executive director of the South Asia Center for Policy Studies. When you have two strong and growing economic powers as neighbors, even leakages can benefit. Soon, India-China annual trade will hit the $100 billion target. There is a massive opportunity for Nepal. But, but, but: Khatri says the India-China rivalry, and the greater U.S. attention, has made for a complicated quadrangle relationship for a country which lacks a clear foreign policy and where policies can be whimsical and personality driven. What to watch: The benefits of the planned infrastructure projects are far off, and many Nepalis are skeptical theyll ever match whats being promised. Meanwhile, theres some bemusement that great powers seem to be putting so much emphasis on Nepal. North Korea fired 2 suspected short-range missiles eastward Thursday, South Korea's military said, per AP. Details: The launch began about 4:30 p.m. local time from the northwest location of Sino-ri, towards the east, the Souths Office of the Joint Chiefs of Staff said in a statement, according to Reuters. Why it matters: It's the latest development in escalating tensions in the region. On Saturday, North Korea's leader Kim Jong-un oversaw "strike drill" missile tests and said troops should be on "high alert posture." Negotiations between the U.S. and North Korea on denuclearization have stalled since President Trump's summit with Kim ended without a deal in Hanoi in February. The big picture: Trump remained optimistic of reaching an agreement with Kim after Saturday's missile tests. The latest launch coincides with U.S. Special Representative for North Korea Stephen Biegun visiting South Korea. Tens of thousands of Oregon teachers walked out on Wednesday while wearing red shirts to demand better funding for public schools, reports AP. The state of play: The teachers aren't asking for better pay, but want to highlight the poor conditions of the schools. Republicans in Oregon recently blocked a $2 billion education plan that would tax its wealthiest residents, reports The Oregonian. The backdrop: Teachers around the nation have been protesting for better pay, more school funding, smaller class sizes and fewer standardized tests. Protests took place earlier this year in North Carolina, South Carolina, Colorado, West Virginia and Arizona. Go deeper: No end in sight for nationwide wave of teacher strikes The House Intelligence Committee may join the Senate Intelligence panel in issuing a subpoena to Donald Trump Jr., its chairman, Rep. Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), told MSNBC's "The Last Word With Lawrence O'Donnell" Wednesday evening. Details: Schiff cited inconsistency concerns about Trump Jr.'s testimony before his committee. "We may bring back some of the witnesses that we've had in before," he told host Lawrence O'Donnell. The backdrop: Earlier Wednesday, the Republican-led Senate Intelligence Committee subpoenaed President Trump's eldest child to answer questions about his previous testimony before Senate investigators in relation to the Russia investigation, sources with direct knowledge told Axios. Why it matters: It's another indication the Russia investigations in Congress aren't over, despite the conclusion of special counsel Robert Mueller's investigation. Go deeper: Scoop: Senate Intel subpoenas Trump Jr. over Russia matters China's Commerce Ministry said in a statement on its website Wednesday it would retaliate with "necessary countermeasures" if the U.S. increased tariffs. Details: It's comments came as President Trump told supporters at a rally in Panama City Beach, Florida, he was introducing the tariffs because China "broke the deal" in the ongoing trade talks. "[T]he vice premier tomorrow is flying in good man but they broke the deal," he said, referring to China's chief negotiator, Liu He, who's due to be in Washington, D.C., Thursday. "They can't do that, so they'll be paying." Why it matters: Trump has threatened to increase tariffs on Chinese goods from 10% to 25%. His administration has accused China of "reneging" on its trade commitments, per Axios' Jonathan Swan. On top of this, the United States Navy said Thursday a U.S.-guided missile destroyer conducted naval drills with Japan, India and the Philippines in a waterway claimed by China in the contested South China Sea, per Reuters. The big picture: Trump said he "won't back down until China stops cheating our workers and stealing our jobs." Trump's speech prompted Chris Rupkey, managing director and chief financial economist at global financial group MUFG, to write a note warning of the market dangers of using such rhetoric, CNBC reports. "We are not sure who the president is addressing tonight in a campaign rally, but he is sure scaring the daylights out of the financial markets." Go deeper: At a campaign rally in Panama City, Fla., President Trump announced a new $448 million relief package for the hurricane-damaged panhandle, reports ABC News. "These dollars will help communities get back on their feet. We've already given you many, many millions of dollars but these are additional monies that are coming in to help the families put their lives together." President Trump Details: The Florida panhandle continues to suffer from damage after Hurricane Michael struck in Oct. 2018. Funding has been stalled since. The Trump administration claims to have prioritized and invested in alleviation efforts, while criticizing Democrats, who argue that a dearth of money has been allocated to Puerto Rico, which endured Hurricane Maria in 2017. On Wednesday, Trump told the crowd that the island has gotten more funding than any other state or territory, per ABC. President Trump told reporters Thursday that he was "very surprised" that his son, Donald Trump Jr., was subpoenaed by the Senate Intelligence Committee, as first reported by Axios. "I was very surprised. I saw Richard Burr saying there was no collusion two or three weeks ago. He went outside and said we found no collusion. I was very surprised to see my son my son is a very good person. ... He's now testified for 20 hours or something, a massive amount of time. The Mueller report came out. That's the bible. The Mueller report came out and they said he did nothing wrong." Why it matters: This is the first congressional subpoena that we know about of one of Trump's children. The president signaled that Trump Jr. may fight the subpoena, which was authorized by Republican Senate Intelligence Chair Richard Burr. The subpoena has prompted significant backlash from Republicans, who have complained like Trump that Don Jr. has spent hours testifying before Congress, and that Democrats won't let go of the Russia investigation even after the release of the Mueller report. It's worth noting that the Senate Intelligence Committee has not yet released its own bipartisan report, which Ranking Member Mark Warner said will be "more extensive" than the Mueller report with respect to Russia's interference efforts in the 2016 election. Reality check: Mueller did not exonerate Trump Jr. in his report. He chose not to prosecute Trump Jr. for violating a ban on contributions and donations by foreign nationals for 2 reasons: First, Mueller likely could not prove beyond a reasonable doubt that Trump Jr. and the others "acted 'willfully,' i.e. with general knowledge of the illegality of their conduct." And second, Mueller said he likely could not prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the "value of promised information exceeded the threshold for a criminal violation." Go deeper: Trump Jr. subpoena faces Republican backlash Former CIA operative Valerie Plame announced a 2020 congressional run in New Mexico's 3rd congressional district on Thursday. The big picture: She will run as a Democrat, citing health care access and prescription drug costs as primary reasons behind her run in her announcement. Plame, who first expressed interest in a run last month, had her identity as a CIA operative made public after a leak in 2003 under the George W. Bush administration to attack her ex-husband Joe Wilson. Go deeper: These Senate seats are up for election in 2020 The vice president of Venezuela's National assembly, Edgar Zambrano, was arrested by state police in Caracas on Wednesday evening, reports the Washington Post. The state of play: Zambrano was leaving the Democratic Action party's headquarters when a SEBIN intelligence unit surrounded his car. Zambrano tweeted: "We democrats we will keep fighting!" as he was towed away while still inside his car. This comes after he stood with opposition leader Juan Guaido on April 30 to encourage the military to rise against President Nicolas Maduro, reports the AP. Zambrano has been charged with treason, conspiracy and rebellion per the Washington Post. Why it matters: Government supporters have advocated for Maduro to order arrests following last week's failed uprising. But experts suggest an attempt to arrest Guaido risks a strong U.S. response. Already, the U.S. already cautioned against "grave consequences." Go deeper: Venezuela's crisis continues 10 weeks after U.S. recognizes Juan Guaido On Monday President Trump will welcome to the White House Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, who has generally been shunned and censured by Western politicians and diplomats for his illiberal practices. Why it matters: At a time when mainstream governments across Europe are doing their best to contain the far right, Trumps outreach to Orban will be seen as an effort to bolster populists, weaken Europes strained political center and undermine the EU. Background: Orban was an early proponent of the right-wing populism that has been surging across Europe illiberal democracy, as he brands it. Since taking office in 2010, he has centralized power, curbed civil liberties, asserted control over much of the media, and compromised the independence of Hungarys judiciary. A self-proclaimed nationalist, Orban is skeptical of European integration and staunchly opposes immigration into the EU, warning that Muslim immigrants pose a threat to Christian civilization. Between the lines: Orban's visit comes just 2 weeks before elections to the European Parliament, which will be a key test of the political strength of populists across the EU. Orban's Fidesz party is in the midst of a breakup with the European Peoples Party, the main center-right bloc in the European Parliament. It's possible he could now form an alliance with the hard-right grouping that includes France's National Front (now called the National Rally), Italy's Northern League and Germany's Alternatives for Germany. Orban may also be making a tactical move ahead of the European Parliament elections to see if he can situate Fidesz as king-maker in a governing coalition. His visit to the White House may well strengthen his hand and give a boost to populists elsewhere. The impact: Orban's invitation to the White House makes clear that the Trump administration is letting him out of the penalty box. The move appears to be part of the administrations strategy to strengthen ties with like-minded populist governments in Europe, including those in Italy and Poland. Along with Trumps support for Brexit, dismissive attitude toward NATO and tariffs on European imports, Orban's visit will further damage transatlantic relations already at a postWWII low point. Charles Kupchan is a senior fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations and professor of international affairs at Georgetown University. By Mirsaid Ibrahimzade Azerbaijan and Turkmenistan are important partners for each other and bilateral agreements which are being implemented at the highest level are evidence of it. The major directions to develop relations between the two states are transport and transit spheres, Ambassador of Turkmenistan to Azerbaijan Mekan Ishangulyyev said at a briefing during his speech dedicated to the upcoming First Caspian Economic Forum to be held in Turkmenbashi in August. Stressing importance of the Turkmenbashi International Sea Port and the Baku International Sea Trade Port in Alat settlement in this issue, the ambassador said that there is all the necessary legal framework for the implementation of bilateral cooperation in this direction. The Afghanistan-Turkmenistan-Azerbaijan-Georgia-Turkey (Lapis Lazuli) transport corridor is one of the important projects being implemented through the sea routes of the two states, and test shipments from Afghanistan to Turkey have already been carried out via this corridor, he said. Ishangulyyev also spoke about Caspian Sea-Black Sea transport corridor project, which will connect the seaports of Turkmenistan and Azerbaijan with the ports of Georgia and Romania. The ambassador said that Azerbaijan, Turkmenistan and the other Caspian countries can develop the economic potential of the region while ensuring environmental safety of the Caspian Sea. He added that taking into account the importance of this issue and to comply with the environmental safety of the Caspian Sea all the Caspian littoral states actively cooperate in this direction. Ishangulyyev also noted that both Turkmenistan and Azerbaijan have the necessary potential for the development of joint tourism projects. In this matter, both countries can use the created infrastructure, he said. The ambassador emphasized that the Turkmen tourist zone Avaza, located in the city of Turkmenbashi, has all the necessary conditions and infrastructure to ensure recreation and development of tourism. Moreover, he said that development of tourism may be influenced by constant ferry trips between the two states and a tendency of increase in the tourist flow to Turkmenistan has been observed. The diplomatic relations between Azerbaijan and Turkmenistan were established In July 1992. The total trade turnover between the countries amounted to $133.15 million in 2018, which is a 18.87 percent decrease in comparison with 2017. The agenda of the upcoming First Caspian Economic Forum includes discussion on the role of the economy of the Caspian region in a global context, investment attractiveness in the oil and gas, electricity, transport, trade, agro-industrial, tourism and other industries of economies of the Caspian littoral states that are of mutual interest. The event participants will discuss the prospects of joint investment projects and programs. -- Mirsaid Ibrahimzade is AzerNews staff journalist, follow him on Twitter: @MirsaidIbrahim1 Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz By Mirsaid Ibrahimzade Slovenia and Azerbaijans current relations are based on intensified political dialogue and rapidly developing economic cooperation, which benefits both countries. Slovenian Foreign Ministry told Trend that the country is ready to consider additional measures to boost its cooperation with Azerbaijan. The ministry noted that there are no open issues between Azerbaijan and Slovenia and bilateral relations are good. The Slovenian MFA also said that there is a need to find spheres of cooperation where mutual interests match and there are a lot of opportunities to improve cooperation between the two states, especially in cultural, scientific and economic spheres. Slovenia also supports cooperation of Azerbaijan with the European Union and in this regard in Eastern European Partnership, the ministry stressed. The Slovenian MFA also stated that economic cooperation between Slovenia and Azerbaijan is based mainly on trade and in the vast majority on the export of goods from Slovenia to Azerbaijan, which has been increasing in the last years. In 2018, trade in goods between Slovenia and Azerbaijan reached the value of 26.9 million euro. Slovenian exports amounted to 15.1 million euros and Slovenian imports from Azerbaijan amounted to 11.7 million euros, the ministry said. In addition, it emphasized that there is still potential to grow economic cooperation and it is up to the market to judge whether todays levels are satisfactory. "In order to boost economic cooperation, more regular political and economic dialogue is needed, as well as an exchange of focused business delegations. All activities that bring mutual trust, friendship and exchange of information on business opportunities are always important element for boosting cooperation," the MFA pointed out. Touching upon the prospects for opening Slovenian embassy in Baku, the ministry said that presently, Slovenia has Honorary Consul Elnur Marat Allahverdiyev in Baku and his work is satisfactory. The MFA noted that opening of a mission in Baku is at this moment not foreseen, but if the trade turnover increases, Slovenia is ready to take measures to boost cooperation. Currently, Slovenian companies work in Azerbaijan mainly in the field of information and communication technologies. Exchange of experience in the field of agriculture and food production is also one of the core aspects of relations between the two states. Azerbaijan and Slovenia successfully cooperate within the framework of the European Union. Azerbaijans cooperation with the European Union mainly includes the areas of energy security and education. -- Mirsaid Ibrahimzade is AzerNews staff journalist, follow him on Twitter: @MirsaidIbrahim1 Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz By Mirsaid Ibrahimzade Azerbaijan strengthens financial institutions, regulatory and supervisory framework including corporate governance in banks, which leads to improvement of the macroeconomic situation in Azerbaijan. The reforms carried out in the country to strengthen the macroeconomic and financial stability have been positively assessed by International Finance Corporation (IFC). IFC Regional Manager Damien Shiels stressed at the meeting with Alim Guliyev, First Deputy Chairman of the Central Bank of Azerbaijan, that IFC is ready to continue the support of development of the private sector in the country. The meeting topics included the IFC current and future action program in Azerbaijan, including financial infrastructure, electronic and digital financial services. Guliyev spoke about the economic reforms in the country and the projects being implemented by the Central Bank in accordance with the program of economic reforms. He stressed the importance of cooperation with IFC and expressed confidence that the relations will continue to develop in the future. Meanwhile, Jan van Bilsen, IFC Chief Regional Manager for the South Caucasus and Russia, told Trend that IFC has been supporting the Azerbaijani private sector for over 20 years and has invested $500 million within this period. Van Bilsen stated that investments worth $350 million were directed for trade financing and investments were also made in the Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan pipeline. He stressed that taking into account recent economic processes there is a necessity to pay more attention to the private sector rather than to natural resources. Moreover, he pointed out that launch of the project entitled "Formation of the investment environment and competition in agribusiness" was aimed at increasing the competition in the Azerbaijani agribusiness through IFCs organizational support and financial assistance from the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO) and the Austrian Ministry of Finance. This is an important step to maintain the development of the business environment and competition in the Azerbaijani agribusiness sector, which ultimately will have a positive impact on the development of the non-oil sector as a whole, van Bilsen noted. He stressed that expansion of economic development directs Azerbaijans focus on the development of small and medium-sized businesses, which is in line with the regional plans of the World Bank (WB). Underlining creation of equal conditions for all entrepreneurs of small and medium-sized businesses, which plays important role in shaping the business environment, van Bilsen said that the recent reforms carried out in Azerbaijan in the field of private sector regulation have yielded results, which has been outlined in the WB Doing Business 2019 report, where Azerbaijan ranked 25th. He also regarded Azerbaijan as a loyal and reliable partner due to the three-year project on the investment environment and competition in the agribusiness sector. The countrys agribusiness will receive advanced experience in the field of competition, which will reduce administrative and budgetary expenses, van Bilsen commented. At the same time, this will create the conditions for maintaining public interest in this sphere and equal conditions for entrepreneurs. Speaking about further contribution to the flow of investments into the country, he stressed that the project will also help to improve the legal and administrative framework. This project is aimed at the development of agribusiness due to the big agricultural potential of Azerbaijan, which is intensively developing the export-oriented agricultural sector, he noted. Van Bilsen also emphasized that implementation of this project will boost competitiveness of Azerbaijani agricultural products. He said that to make this possible, current problems must be eliminated, regulation and the food safety system should be improved. At the end, Jan van Bilsen stated that the agricultural sector makes up 40 percent of Azerbaijans economy, therefore IFC intends to fully support Azerbaijan for revealing its agricultural potential. He stressed that reforms have been carried out in Azerbaijan within the existing cooperation, and IFC is ready to contribute to the improvement of indicators and render support for the development of the country. -- Mirsaid Ibrahimzade is AzerNews staff journalist, follow him on Twitter: @MirsaidIbrahim1 Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz By Leman Mammadova The Azexport portal continues to introduce auspicious mechanisms to facilitate trade procedures for exporters and buyers. Azexport is preparing projects to provide its participants with preferences, including issuance of service passports and co-branded Visa cards with interest-free credit limit for exporters, as well as access to the simplified import system for production materials, etc., head of the portal Zaur Gardashov told Trend. He noted that prior to the creation of the Azexport portal, the government considered several different options for supporting exporters through electronic platforms, assuming payment of up to $5,000 to each company for placing information about its products on various portals. For budgetary savings and efficiency, Azexport went a little different way, and this path turned out to be a success for our exporters, said Gardashov. He stressed that the main advantage of the Azexport project is that the company has achieved the same results with less costs (150 times less calculated as per company) and even more. Gardashov added that Azexport has launched a single exporter declaration, on the basis of which the exporter receives all permits online as well as many other services that provide customer search, export procedures and deliveries to foreign markets. Created in 2016, Azexport.az, integrated with the most popular electronic trading platforms, makes products available to potential buyers from anywhere in the world. The portal offers entrepreneurs the opportunity to export goods produced in Azerbaijan to traditional and new markets via international e-trading platforms. The mission of Azexport is to provide information about products of Azerbaijani origin and to be a beneficial platform for their sales in foreign and domestic markets. Earlier, Gardashov said that in order to improve the effectiveness of the portal, Azexport expands the list of international electronic portals with which it cooperates. Moreover, international e-commerce experts are regularly invited by the portal management in order to increase the knowledge of local producers in this field. Azerbaijan received export orders for a total of $178.4 million through Azexport.az portal in January-March 2019. In March, the total value of export orders amounted to $32.8 million. Russia (11.5 percent), Turkey (9.9 percent), the U.S. (7 percent), India (6.6 percent) and Georgia (5.3 percent) were the top five countries in terms of export orders in March. Export orders for almost $1.2 billion were received by Azexport portal from 126 countries of the world in the period from January 1, 2017, to March 31, 2019. --- Leman Mammadova is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @leman_888 Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz As the museum records, The plane was found in A-1a/U3 configuration, meaning the fighter had different nose hardware than the standard fighter-type Me 262. The 30mm guns were replaced with a pair of R6-50/30 vertical cameras in the nose compartment. These planes were unarmed and relied on speed and altitude to avoid tangling with Allied fighters. At the Lechfeld airfield, the plane came under the jurisdiction of the 54th Air Disarmament Squadron (ADS) of the U.S. Army in May of 1945. The German crosses on the sides of the plane were painted over with a United States roundels and bars. The swastika at the tail was also painted over. These aircraft were acquired by the U.S. as part of Operation Lusty; a mission to gain access to enemy aircraft, technical and scientific reports, research facilities, and weapons. By the wars final months, Allied bombing efforts in Germany had so disrupted aircraft production that most formal factories were essentially non-functional. Instead, aircraft production took place in improvised locations such as road tunnels, caves and even forests. In fact, the museums Me 262 went through final assembly in a waldwerk, or forest factory, in Obertraubling, near Regensburg, Germany during March, 1945. The completed aircraft was moved some 200km south, presumably by rail, to Memmingen where Messerschmitt factory pilot Sergeant Otto Kaiser flew the aircraft for the first time on March 14th, 1945. Following flight testing, the plane transferred to Eger, where it underwent conversion from a fighter into an unarmed photo-reconnaissance variant, with cameras in the nose instead of 30mm cannon. Lt.Colonel Harold Watson lead the flight team within Operation Lusty. Better known as Watsons Whizzers these pilots gathered enemy aircraft of technical interest from across the fallen Nazi empire. As with many of the aircraft recovered during Operation Lusty, the Me 262 was ferried to Cherbourg for shipment to the United States aboard the Royal Navy aircraft carrier HMS Reaper in July, 1945. The aircraft received the Foreign Equipment number FE-4012 while under evaluation. On the 17th of May 1946 Colonel Watson flew the aircraft to Patterson Field for the start of this series of trials. It was flown at Patterson and Wright Fields on test work for 4 hours and 40 minutes (8 flights), being flyable at Wright Field in August 1946. Flight trials were discontinued after four engine changes were required during the course of the tests, culminating in two single-engine landings. Around 1955, the plane (now in fairly rough shape) was acquired by Edward T. Maloney for his Planes of Fame Air Museum then at Claremont, California. The museum later moved, of course, to Ontario, California and finally Chino, California. The plane stayed in the museums collection for many years, undergoing one or more restorations. On display, the plane was marked in a White Nine color scheme copied from a photograph of another aircraft, which was scrapped on a dump near Munich following the war. Paul Allen purchased the Me 262 for his museum, then known as the Flying Heritage Collection, in 2000. Its restoration began at JME Aviation Ltd. in England during February 2007 and, following substantial work, continued at GossHawk Unlimited Inc. in Casa Grande, Arizona during 2010, and more latterly with Morgan Aircraft Ltd. in Arlington, Washington State. Aero Turbine in Stockton, California has restored the aircrafts Jumo oo4B engines. The final airframe assembly is underway, and as this article went to press, the engine installations were scheduled for completion later this week. Taxi trials are expected in June or July. Following the restorations completion, the Me 262 will be moved to Moses Lake for flight testing with Steve Hinton. The first flight is currently expected to take place late this fall, but current plans only extend to one flight, with the aircraft likely being grounded once it goes on display within the museums home at Paine Field in Everett, Washington. Many thanks indeed to the Flying Heritage & Combat Armor Museum for making this article possible, and especially to FHCAMs Michelle Donoghue for the details and photographs within. By Laman Ismayilova A conference entitled "Heydar Aliyev and Azerbaijani Cinema" has been held at the Azerbaijan State Film Fund. The conference was co-organized by the Ministry of Culture, Azerbaijan Cinematographers Union and State Film Fund, Trend Life reported. Speaking at the event, First Secretary of the Cinematographers Union, Honored Art Worker Jamil Guliyev noted the invaluable contribution of the national leader Heydar Aliyev to the development of Azerbaijani cinema. Guliyev stressed that Azerbaijani cinema, which will celebrate its 121st anniversary this year, is associated with the name of the national leader. The professional holiday of Azerbaijani cinematographers, the Day of National Cinema, was established on Heydar Aliyevs initiative in 2000. Thanks to the national leaders care, films such as "Nasimi", "Dede Gorgud", "Babek", "Javids Life", Rulers Fate and other historical films were created. In turn, film expert, Honored Art Worker Aydin Kazimzade spoke about the meeting of cinematographers with Heydar Aliyev on May 18, 1984, in Moscow. At the end of the event, "Shield and Sword" film by Etibar Mammadov was presented. --- Laman Ismayilova is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @Lam_Ismayilova Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz By Laman Ismayilova The project "Culturology and Sustainable Development" has started in Baku. It is co-organized by the Simurg Azerbaijani Culture Association and Center for Cultural Studies with the assistance of the Council on State Support to NGOs, Trend Life reported. The project is carried out in the form of additional culturological education using the methods of a systematic approach. In his speech, Fuad Mammadov, head of the Simurg Azerbaijani Culture Association and professor of the Academy of Public Administration, stressed that the main goal is the implementation of culturological master classes " Path to Excellence" aimed at civilian assistance to the state in the formation of highly cultured, decent people in Azerbaijan as the basis of human capital, sustainable, competitive and safe development of the country, as well as the preparation and publication of a culturological monograph to enlighten the population of the country. The first master-class " Path to Excellence" was held at the State Committee for Family, Women and Children Affairs for its leading specialists. During May, another nine master classes will be held for the country's senior officials of ministries and agencies, non-governmental organizations, teachers, journalists and other professionals, youth, as well as in the city of Gusar and in a Turkish university. The participants of the master classes will receive "Path to Excellence" culturological certificates, established by the Council on State Support to NGOs and the presidium of the Simurg Association. Project participants will also be given CDs with presentation materials reflecting universal cultural knowledge of topical issues of sustainable development, world culture and civilization, as well as personal self-improvement technologies and the culturological monograph "Path to Excellence" that is being prepared for publication. --- Laman Ismayilova is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @Lam_Ismayilova Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz By Trend Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov informed OSCE Secretary General Thomas Greminger upon his own request about the results of the meeting among the Russian, Azerbaijani and Armenian foreign ministers held in Moscow on April 15 with the participation of the OSCE Minsk Group co-chairs, spokesperson for the Russian Foreign Ministry Maria Zakharova said. Zakharova made the remarks at the briefing, Trend reports. "Following the Moscow meeting it was stressed that Azerbaijan and Armenia are interested in the prospects of establishing cooperation in the humanitarian field, Zakharova said. The matter rests in the steps to further stabilize the situation in the conflict zone, in particular, it is about the agricultural work, providing opportunity for relatives of those held in custody on the territory of the sides [Azerbaijan and Armenia] to meet them. The readiness to begin practical work on establishing contacts between people, including reciprocal visits of mass media representatives, is also among these steps. In turn, Greminger confirmed the OSCEs intention to continue to support the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict settlement," she said. On April 24, Lavrov met with Greminger, who was in Moscow to participate in the 8th Moscow Conference on International Security. The sides exchanged views on the OSCEs role in rendering assistance to resolve the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. The conflict between the two South Caucasus countries began in 1988 when Armenia made territorial claims against Azerbaijan. As a result of the ensuing war, in 1992 Armenian armed forces occupied 20 percent of Azerbaijan, including the Nagorno-Karabakh region and seven surrounding districts. The 1994 ceasefire agreement was followed by peace negotiations. Armenia has not yet implemented four UN Security Council resolutions on withdrawal of its armed forces from the Nagorno-Karabakh and the surrounding districts. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz By Trend Azerbaijan adheres to an approach consolidated with the Russian Federation in terms of preserving the historical memory of the role of the Soviet people in the victory over Nazism, countering attempts to falsify the history of the World War II and the glorification of Nazism, said the Russian Foreign Ministrys report entitled "On the situation with the glorification of Nazism, the spread of neo-nazism and other practices that contribute to fuelling contemporary forms of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance", Trend reports. "Azerbaijan voted in favor of the resolution of the UN General Assembly "Combating glorification of Nazism, neo-nazism and other practices that contribute to fuelling contemporary forms of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance" in 2018, the report said. There are virtually no manifestations of neo-nazism, racism, racial discrimination and xenophobia in Azerbaijan, the report said. The Azerbaijani leadership positions its country as a tolerant country for the representatives of various nations and religions." Committing a crime on the basis of national, racial, religious hatred according to the Azerbaijani Criminal Code is considered as an aggravating circumstance in sentencing, the report said. "The Azerbaijani Criminal Code also includes the articles envisaging punishment for the actions aimed at the complete or partial destruction of a national, ethnic, racial or religious group by killing members of this group (Article 103); prosecuting any group or organization upon political, racial, national, ethnic, cultural, religious reasons (Article 109), acts committed with the aim of organizing and ensuring the superiority of one racial group to oppress another racial group (Article 111); violation of equality of citizens depending on race, nationality, attitude to religion, language, gender, origin (Article 154), actions aimed at inciting national, racial, social or religious hatred and enmity, humiliation of national dignity, actions aimed at restriction of the rights of citizens or the establishment of superiority of citizens on the basis of their national or racial, social affiliation, attitude to religion (Article 283)," the report said. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz By Trend A solemn ceremony has been held in Baku to mark the 74th anniversary of victory over fascism in World War Two. President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Commander-in-Chief Ilham Aliyev and First Lady Mehriban Aliyeva attended the ceremony. President, Commander-in-Chief Ilham Aliyev laid a wreath at the statue of Major General of Tank Troops, twice Hero of the Soviet Union Hazi Aslanov. President Ilham Aliyev and First Lady Mehriban Aliyeva posed for photographs together with veterans of World War Two. A guard of honor passed in front of President Ilham Aliyev under the accompaniment of a military march. President Ilham Aliyev and First Lady Mehriban Aliyeva met with family members of participant of World War Two, partisan, one of the prominent representatives of the Dutch resistance movement, Azerbaijani national hero of the Netherlands Mammad Mammadov and Mayor of the city of Oisterwijk Hans Janssen. The head of state and his wife then met with family members and close relatives of twice Hero of the Soviet Union Hazi Aslanov, and congratulated them on Victory Day. The ceremony was also attended by Prime Minister Novruz Mammadov, Parliament Speaker Ogtay Asadov, Head of the Presidential Administration Ramiz Mehdiyev and other officials. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz A new print edition of the AZERNEWS online newspaper was released on May 9. The new edition includes articles: EU highlights need to sign aviation agreement, Country first in CIS in terms of minimum pension rate, Chingiz Mustafayev holds first rehearsal at Eurovision stage, Azexport strives to U.S. market etc. AZERNEWS is an associate member of the World Association of Newspapers and News Publishers (WAN-IFRA). The online newspaper is available at www.azernews.az. By Mirsaid Ibrahimzade Currently, political relations between Azerbaijan and Georgia are at the highest level, cooperation has reached a strategic level, and the relations are based on the principles of strong friendship and mutual respect. Meeting between the members of the working group on Azerbaijan-Georgia interparliamentary relations and the delegation of the Georgia-Azerbaijan parliamentary friendship group, which is on a visit to Baku, has been held in the Azerbaijani parliament. The delegation was led by the Vice-Speaker of the Georgian Parliament Zviad Dzidziguri. At the meeting, Aflatun Amashov, head of the working group, noted that during the period of independence, relations between Azerbaijan and Georgia have been showing positive dynamics and added that the official meetings and bilateral visits between the two countries give positive results. Stressing the importance of bilateral cooperation within international organizations, Amashov said that interparliamentary relations play vital role in the development of multisectoral cooperation between Azerbaijan and Georgia. In turn, Dzidziguri stated that Georgia is interested in strengthening ties with Azerbaijan and emphasized that the Georgian side always supports cooperation in different spheres, such as trade, tourism and industry. During the meeting, Azerbaijani MPs Ganira Pashayeva, Rasim Musabayov and Flora Karimova expressed deep concern over the erection of a monument in Georgia to separatist and terrorist Mikhail Avagyan, who was involved in the killings of civilians during the Armenia-Azerbaijan Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. The sides also exchanged views on a number of issues in terms of the further development of bilateral relations. Both Azerbaijan and Georgia restored their independence in 1991 and diplomatic ties were established between them on November 18, 1992. On October 10, 1997, Azerbaijan and Georgia became two of the four founding members of the GUAM Organization for Democracy and Economic Development. The countries broadly cooperate in regional energy development, transportation and economic partnership projects such as Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan pipeline, Kars-Tbilisi-Baku railway, TRACECA, BSEC, etc. Regional military and security alliance of Georgia and Azerbaijan develops along NATO's Partnership for Peace Program and the common protection of Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan pipeline with Turkey. -- Mirsaid Ibrahimzade is AzerNews staff journalist, follow him on Twitter: @MirsaidIbrahim1 Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz By Leman Mammadova Azerbaijan and Italy hold successful cooperation both in bilateral format and within international organizations. High-level reciprocal visits and intensive political dialogue contribute to the development of strategic partnership ties between the two countries. A delegation of the Azerbaijani Parliament, under the leadership of the Speaker Ogtay Asadov, has visited Italy. The delegation included the Head of the Working Group on interparliamentary relations with Italy Azer Karimli, MPs Ulviyya Aghayeva, Vahid Ahmadov, Elshad Hasanov, head of the Parliament's Office Safa Mirzayev and other officials. As part of the visit, the delegation met with the leadership of the Senate and the Chamber of Deputies of the Italian parliament, as well as representatives of the Azerbaijan-Italy Friendship Group. During the meeting with the President of the Senate Maria Elisabetta Alberti Casellati, Ogtay Asadov stressed the importance of the recent official visit of the First Vice-President of Azerbaijan Mehriban Aliyeva to Italy. The speaker of the Azerbaijani Parliament said that so far, 44 documents have been signed between the two countries, the most important of which is the Joint Declaration on Strategic Partnership between Azerbaijan and Italy. He recalled that Italy is the largest trade partner of Azerbaijan and presently, there are up to 50 Italian companies operating in the country. Asadov went on to add that the Heydar Aliyev Foundation plays a big role in strengthening political and cultural ties between the countries. Casellati, in turn, noted that Italy highly appreciates the projects implemented by the Heydar Aliyev Foundation in the cultural and humanitarian fields, including the restoration of historical monuments in Italy. She also emphasized that Italian companies successfully participate in a number of economic projects in Azerbaijan, including the transport, agricultural, infrastructure sectors, defense industry, etc. The president of Senate highly appreciated the role of Azerbaijan in the energy security of Europe, including Italy, stressing that the Southern Gas Corridor will serve to further expand economic cooperation between the two countries. Within the framework of the visit, Asadov also met in Rome with the President of the Chamber of Deputies of Italy's Parliament Roberto Fico. During the conversation, the speaker of the Azerbaijani Parliament especially noted the official visits of President Ilham Aliyev to Italy in 2005, 2008 and 2014 and working visits in 2011 and 2015. Touching upon the cultural ties between Azerbaijan and Italy, Asadov said that the Heydar Aliyev Foundation is carrying out exceptional work in strengthening political and cultural ties. In his words, the projects implemented in Italy by the Heydar Aliyev Foundation under the leadership of the First Vice-President Mehriban Aliyeva make a special contribution to cooperation between the two countries in the humanitarian sphere. Asadov also stressed that during last years official visit to Italy, Azerbaijan's First Vice President Mehriban Aliyeva took part in the opening ceremony of the St. Sebastians Catacombs, restored by the Heydar Aliyev Foundation. He noted that Azerbaijan is interested in deepening relations with the EU and works closely with European institutions. As part of the visit, Azerbaijani delegation also met with the members of Azerbaijan-Italy Friendship Group and the Italy-Azerbaijan Friendship Association at the Italian Parliament in Rome. At the meeting, it was noted that Italy is the most important trade partner of Azerbaijan, and the trade turnover between the two countries amounted to $6.22 billion in 2018, which accounts for 20.11 percent of Azerbaijans total foreign trade. Diplomatic relations between the two states were established in 1992. Italy is a reliable partner of Azerbaijan in Europe with whom bilateral beneficial cooperation exists in all areas. Both states enjoy high level of economic cooperation and intend to intensify ties as the relations in the economic sphere bring real benefits to both sides. Accompanied by a solid consolidation of the political dialogue, bilateral economic relations have further strengthened following the signing of the Joint Declaration for the establishment of an Italian-Azerbaijani Council for Economic, Industrial and Financial in 2004. Baku and Rome are strategic partners in the energy sector. Since 1995, the Italian company Eni has been involved in several projects on the operation of oil and gas fields in Azerbaijan, which laid the foundation for economic cooperation between Azerbaijan and Italy. Since 1999, Italy has begun to receive a large part of Azerbaijani oil exported through the Baku-Supsa pipeline and then through Baku-Jeyhan. Moreover, Italy supports the development of the Shah Deniz 2 field, with further export of the natural gas from the field to Europe via the Trans Adriatic Pipeline (TAP). Two countries have great potential for expanding economic relations, in particular in such areas as energy, agriculture, industry, trade, investment, transport and environment. In total, the investments of Italian companies in Azerbaijan have amounted to about $530 million, and the volume of Azerbaijani investments in Italy made up at $135 million. Presently, Azerbaijan and Italy are preparing a new agreement on the promotion and protection of mutual investments between the countries. --- Leman Mammadova is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @leman_888 Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz By Leman Mammadova Azerbaijan and Ukraine enjoy sustainable prospects of bilateral relations in political, economic, transport, humanitarian fields and especially in energy. Ukraine imported crude oil worth $99 million from Azerbaijan in January-April 2019. According to the State Fiscal Service of Ukraine, during the reporting period, the country purchased crude oil worth a total of $101.4 million, which is 35.1 percent less than in January-April 2018. Crude oil imports from Azerbaijan accounted for 97.6 percent of the country's total crude oil imports. Imports from Azerbaijan are followed with those from Latvia - $2.3 million (2.29 percent), Hungary - $0.08 million (0.08 percent), and other countries - $0.03 million (0.03 percent). In the reporting period, Ukraine reduced the import of oil and oil feedstock by 31.4 percent compared to the same period of 2018. Ukraine is the second largest trade partner of Azerbaijan in the post-Soviet space. Azerbaijan is also considered one of the main trade partners of Ukraine. The trade growth started in 2005 and reached $1.5 billion in peak points in 2011; export of products amounted to $909 million, while import - to $558 million. Since 2012, the trade turnover between the two countries has declined significantly. From 2016 to 2017, the trade turnover increased 2.5 times and exceeded $800 million, although it was $300 million until 2016. In 2018, the trade turnover has been the highest in the last five years - it amounted to about $829 million, which is $18 million more than in 2017. Azerbaijan's imports from Ukraine amounted to $469.8 million in 2018, while products for $358.74 million were exported from Azerbaijan to Ukraine. Main goods imported from Ukraine are metallurgy products, machine building products, agro-industrial products and chemical industry products. Meanwhile, the main goods exported from Azerbaijan to Ukraine are products of fuel energy industry, chemical industry products, and agro-industrial products. Recently, Azerbaijan and Ukraine have been engaged in active development of economic cooperation. In June 2018, the first Trade House of Azerbaijan was opened in Kiev, and similar houses are planned to open in other cities of the country. --- Leman Mammadova is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @leman_888 Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz By Trend A meeting was held with Zhyrgalbek Sagynbayev, Deputy Chairman of the State Committee for Industry, Energy and Subsoil Use of Kyrgyzstan, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, Trend reports referring to the Turkmen Foreign Ministry. Sagynbayev is also the co-chairman of the joint Turkmen-Kyrgyz Intergovernmental Committee. The parties discussed the possibilities of expanding trade, economic and investment cooperation and stressed the need to increase the volume of trade. The importance of business contacts between the two states was also emphasized during the meeting. In turn, the Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs of Turkmenistan (UIET) reports that large-scale investment projects implemented by domestic entrepreneurs, including those in the transport sector, developing the country's natural resources, developing the fishing industry, and tourism, were discussed during the meeting with Sagynbayev. It was reported earlier that Kyrgyzstan is negotiating the possibility of receiving natural gas from a future branch of the Turkmenistan-China pipeline for providing the southern regions of of the country with gas. Zhyrgalbek Sagynbayev told local media that it is necessary to conduct additional negotiations with all the countries participating in the project in order to resolve the issue. The construction of the 4th branch "D" of the Turkmenistan-China gas pipeline via Kyrgyzstan is scheduled to commence by late 2019. Overall, the new branch "D" is intended for the Turkmenistan-Uzbekistan-Tajikistan-Kyrgyzstan-China route. At present, 3 branches of the pipeline on the route Turkmenistan-Uzbekistan-Kazakhstan-China (branches "A", "B", "C") have been built and functioning. They are to supply 40 billion cubic meters of natural gas per year altogether. The additional branch's rate of flow is expected to be 25 billion cubic meters of gas, which will allow Turkmenistan to bring the volume of its natural gas exports to China to 65 billion cubic meters annually. It was reported earlier that, as of December 2018, more than 250 billion cubic meters of Turkmen gas had been exported to China since December 2009. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz South Africa: Vote counting rate impresses Political analysts scrutinising the 2019 National and Provincial Election results have heaped praise at the rate at which votes are being processed. This, they said, was apparent as results were steadily streaming in from voting stations across the country. Political analyst Sthembile Mbete spoke to SAnews at the National Results Operation Centre in Pretoria on Thursday. The results have been fascinating. I think we should not be projecting too much from the results that are in so far. The results that have come in so far are predominately from the Northern Cape and Western Cape and some parts of the Eastern Cape so that will skew and sway which parties are doing well, she said. Despite this, she said, a certain trend was emerging from the results as they streamed in. We can see from the results that have come in so far that the ANC, DA and EFF will remain the three biggest parties. It seems to have been a drop for the ANC and DA. The EFF seems to have increased in its support base in Parliament but not as much as people were expecting it to. We dont have the results for the EFFs heartland, which is Gauteng, Limpopo and North West, so when those ballots come in, it may sway things a bit, she said. Mbete said initial results have suggested that the Freedom Front Plus has appeared to have taken a lot of support from the DA. One of the other things to think about is that there seems to have been a low voter turnout than anticipated. That is what always makes the difference in the overall performance of parties. And which people in society turn out, makes a big difference about which parties are stronger, she said. The biggest surprise, she added, has been how well the smaller parties seem to be doing compared to what was predicted. One prediction was that the smaller parties would share between six to eight percent of the total vote. It is becoming clear that they will share between 10 to 12 percent of the vote, Mbete said. Political analyst Nkosikhulule Nyembezi commended the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) for the quick rate at which it was releasing results. Smaller voting stations are declaring. What we are seeing now is what we would expect if it was a local government election. It has to be commended that the IEC has improved the system in such that the sorting and the counting is happening quite quickly. The big question that one is expecting to see at the end of it all is: do we end up with 13 political parties, less or more? In the national legislature we had 13 parties since 1994, he said. Once result counting surpasses the 50% point mark, the country will be able to see who is staying on and who is not. Right now it shows that all the parties that have contested have received some sort of support, he said. This, he added, means there was value in having 48 contesting parties in the election. SAnews.gov.za This story has been published on: 2019-05-09. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. By Trend The Russian Foreign Ministry condemned the former ruling Republican Party of Armenia for the glorification of fascism, reads the report of the Russian Foreign Ministry "On the situation with the glorification of Nazism, the spread of neo-Nazism and other practices that contribute to the escalation of modern forms of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance", Trend reports. In particular, the document notes that the former ruling Republican Party of Armenia took steps to perpetuate the memory of the Nazi criminal Garegin Nzhdeh, who worked closely with the Third Reich. The report also highlights the activities of the well-known extremist group Sasna Tsrer, which was registered in the autumn of 2018 as a political party. "The Sasna Tsrer ideology is based on the refusal to recognize the Republic of Armenia as an 'outcome of a criminal Russian-Turkish conspiracy' (Moscow Treaty of 1921) and struggle for the 'creation of a new state'. The stated goals of the party are 'the creation of a new Armenia', including both the current territory of the country and Nagorno-Karabakh, as well as the unification of Armenians living outside their homeland through a national referendum," the report reads. The program of the party emphasizes the task of restoring the rights allegedly 'violated by Russian colonialism' and returning 'Armenian authority to Nakhchivan and west of the Akhuryan river'. "In July 2016, supporters of this party carried out an armed seizure of a police station in Yerevan, during which two policemen were killed. In the parliamentary elections in December 2018, the party gathered 1.82 percent of the votes," the report further noted. As noted, cases of racism and xenophobia were recorded in Armenia and cases of hostility by the Armenian population towards visitors from Iran and India are also periodically revealed. "In late 2018, Arman Tatoyan, a human rights defender of the Republic of Armenia, stated that the use of the internet for spreading xenophobic attitudes in Armenia had become more frequent, motivating it with the aggravation of the internal political situation in the country on the threshold of parliamentary elections," the report said. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz By Trend A Joint statement has been issued by High Representative of the European Union and the Foreign Ministers of France, Germany and the United Kingdom on the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action known commonly as the Iran nuclear deal, Trend reports citing European External Action Service. The statement came in response to Iran's recent remarks regarding its commitment under the nuclear deal. We note with great concern the statement made by Iran concerning its commitments under the JCPoA (Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action). We remain fully committed to the preservation and full implementation of the JCPoA, a key achievement of the global nuclear non-proliferation architecture, which is in the security interest of all. We strongly urge Iran to continue to implement its commitments under the JCPoA in full as it has done until now and to refrain from any escalatory steps, reads the statement. The document further says: We reject any ultimatums and we will assess Irans compliance on the basis of Irans performance regarding its nuclear-related commitments under the JCPoA and the NPT (Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons). In this respect, we recall the key role of IAEA (International Atomic Energy Agency) monitoring and verification of the implementation by Iran of its nuclear-related commitments. We also look to Iran to continue to adhere to established JCPoA formats and mechanisms including the JCPoA Joint Commission. At the same time we recall our own firm commitments under the agreement including as regards sanctions-lifting for the benefit of the Iranian people. In this regard, we regret the re-imposition of sanctions by the United States following their withdrawal from the JCPoA. We are determined to continue pursuing efforts to enable the continuation of legitimate trade with Iran, including through the operationalisation of the special purpose vehicle "INSTEX". We call on countries not party to the JCPoA to refrain from taking any actions that impede the remaining parties ability to fully perform their commitments. Earlier, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said at a meeting of the Cabinet of Ministers that if the members of the JCPoA dont meet Irans demands, after 60 days the country will stop complying with its commitments regarding the level of uranium enrichment. Rouhani said that Iran doesnt abandon the JCPoA. However, Iran suspends fulfilling a number of commitments in the nuclear deal because other parties to the deal dont fulfill their commitments, he noted. If the demands arent met, after 60 days Iran wont comply with its commitment regarding the uranium enrichment at the rate of 3.67 percent, and will reconsider its obligations under the Arak Nuclear Reactor, he said. Rouhani said that Iran will suspend its commitments on storage of already enriched uranium and heavy water reserves at this stage. He added that Iran is ready to negotiate with the remaining five countries in the nuclear deal on its better implementation. Iran has sent a message to the remaining five countries in the nuclear deal that urgent measures will be taken if this step of Iran is used as a pretext to submit Irans case to the UN Security Council, he said. The JCPoA, signed between Iran and the P5+1 group (US, UK, Russia, China, France and Germany), was put in force in January 2016. The US announced its withdrawal from the deal In May 2018 and imposed sanctions on Iran in November of the same year. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz By Leman Mammadova Azerbaijan aims to increase the flow of tourists from Arab countries and other regions to the country and to make this growth sustainable. Azerbaijan expects an influx of tourists from Saudi Arabia this summer, Nahid Baghirov, Chairman of the Azerbaijan Tourism Association, told Trend. In his words, the number of flights between Azerbaijan and Saudi Arabia has increased. In this context, twice as many tourists from this country will arrive in Azerbaijan in the summer. According to the State Statistics Committee of Azerbaijan, in 2018, as many as 2,849,600 tourists from 196 countries visited Azerbaijan, and Saudi citizens accounted for 2.6 percent of those arriving in the country. Last year, the largest increase in the number of incoming tourists was observed among the citizens of the Gulf countries (except for the UAE and Iran). As many as 554,100 people came from the Gulf countries, and almost every fifth who arrived in Azerbaijan was a citizen of these countries. Of the tourists, the number of Saudi Arabian citizens increased 2.2 times, Bahrain doubled, Kuwait 1.8 times, Qatar 1.6 times, Iraq 7.9 percent, Oman 7.4 percent compared to 2017. On the other hand, the number of arriving Iranian and Emirati tourists decreased by 33.7 and 8.3 percent, respectively. In January-March 2019, the number of visitors from the Gulf countries amounted to 106,800. Azerbaijan is among the fastest-growing destinations for tourists. The beautiful nature of Azerbaijan, hospitality of its people, the country's capital with its super modern and ancient buildings draws the attention of all tourists visiting this South Caucasian country. Simplification of the visa regime also played a major role in the growth of tourist flow from Middle East. In February 2016, Azerbaijan simplified the procedure of obtaining visas for citizens of Gulf countries. Its noteworthy that Saudi Arabia facilitates to increasing the flow of Arab tourists to Azerbaijan. The Saudi Travel and Tourism Association is developing a road map to provide assistance in attracting Arab tourists to Azerbaijan. The road map is designed for five years. All aspects of the cooperation of the sides will be coordinated with the State Tourism Agency of Azerbaijan. Saudi Arabia will attract tourists to Azerbaijan and will ensure an annual increase in investment in the country at a level of at least five percent. Recently, Flynas, Saudi Arabia's leading low-cost airline, has announced its plan to launch flights to Baku. This will contribute to the further growth in tourist flow to Baku from the Gulf countries. It should be noted that official tourism representative offices of Azerbaijan have been operating in Saudi Arabia and the UAE since the end of last year. Recently, Azerbaijan attended the International Tourism Fair Arabian Travel Market 2019 (ATM) in Dubai, the UAE, which is the leading international travel and tourism event in the Middle East. The participation at the event was important in terms of promoting the tourism potential of Azerbaijan as well as strengthening ties among the key players of the Middle East market and attracting Arab tourists. --- Leman Mammadova is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @leman_888 Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz By Leman Mammadova Tourism potential of Azerbaijan is regularly introduced at international tourism fairs so that the country is recognized as a well-known tourist destination. Azerbaijan has participated at the Cultural Tourism international fair held in Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria. The country was represented with a national stand organized by the Embassy of Azerbaijan in Bulgaria. The stand featured Azerbaijan's culture, traditions, history and tourism opportunities, as well as the information on direct air connection between Baku and Sofia, which opened in January 2018. Azerbaijani carpets and handicrafts, as well as dance dresses were demonstrated in the countrys stand. Leaflets and souvenirs reflecting the tourism potential of Azerbaijan presented by the State Tourism Agency were distributed to the event participants. Tasting of Azerbaijani pomegranate juice also took part within the fair, while Azerbaijans national sweets shakarbura and pakhlava were distributed to the visitors. Bulgarian Tourism Minister Nikolina Angelkova, the Mayor of Veliko Tarnovo Daniel Banov and other officials attending the opening ceremony of the fair visited the Azerbaijani stand and were informed about the Azerbaijani culture and tourism opportunities. The 16th Cultural Tourism fair was organized by the Bulgarian Ministry of Tourism, Veliko Tarnovo Municipality, the Association of Bulgarian Tour Operators and Tour Agents, the Bulgarian Hotel and Restaurant Association and the Tsarevgrad Tarnov Municipal Tour Agency. Nearly 30 Bulgarian and foreign companies and organizations representing well-known and exotic tourism spots, including Bulgaria, Azerbaijan, Vietnam, South Africa, Indonesia, China and Serbia, attended the fair. The fair in Veliko Tarnovo is the first specialized forum to promote cultural tourism and its importance for Bulgaria as a tourist destination. The first and most prestigious forum for cultural tourism in Bulgaria was founded in 2003 in Veliko Tarnovo as the national fair Cultural Tourism, and later was renamed into the International Tourism Fair Cultural Tourism. Azerbaijan and Bulgaria effectively cooperate in many areas, including tourism, economy, trade, culture and other spheres. Launching of Baku-Sofia-Baku flights made a great contribution to the development of relations in the tourism sector. Earlier, Nikolay Yankov, Bulgarian Ambassador to Azerbaijan, said that the number of visas issued for Azerbaijani citizens has increased by at least 40 percent since the opening of the flight. --- Leman Mammadova is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @leman_888 Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz Bakersfield, CA (93308) Today Cloudy skies early, followed by partial clearing. High near 55F. Winds S at 5 to 10 mph.. Tonight A steady rain this evening. Showers continuing overnight. Low 43F. S winds shifting to WNW at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of rain 90%. Rainfall near a quarter of an inch. N. Oregon Coast Preview: Pacific City, Tillamook, Manzanita in Spring Published 05/07/2019 at 6:13 AM PDT By Oregon Coast Beach Connection staff (Manzanita, Oregon) May quite literally springs to life on the north Oregon coast. As the Tillamook County region of Manzanita, Rockaway Beach, Garibaldi, Tillamook and Pacific City hurdle towards the big opening of summer, things pick up steam. Then June comes around and the area continues to pick up the pace. Both months feature bundles of food, outdoors, arts and nature events and even a stellar wine and beer tour. Heres a preview: May 12. Mothers Day Feast. Celebrate new traditions and bring your friends and family to the beach to enjoy ocean-to-table dining. This year, the Oregon coast foodie destination will be serving up a $60 Prix Fixe menu with additional sweet and savory a la carte options available. 8 a.m. Meridian Restaurant & Bar. 33000 Cape Kiwanda Dr. Pacific City, Oregon. 503.483.3000. Meridian Restaurant website. May 12. International Migratory Bird Day. To celebrate, join birding expert James Billstine for a Birding and Ecology field trip through the Lower Nehalem Community Land Trusts Alder Creek Farm. The focus of the trip will be on birds, bird habitats, and the wonders of spring migration. There will be some walking through tall grass involved, and people are welcome to come and go as they please. Bring: Rubber boots and walking gear, binoculars, bird book (National Geographic, Sibley Guide, Peterson Guide, etc.), rain gear if needed, water, and quiet voices. Free. 9 a.m. Alder Creek Farm. 35955 Underhill Lane in Nehalem, Oregon.Website. May 15 and 22. Oregon Coast Trail Party - Cape Falcon. Trailkeepers of Oregon continue work on the Oregon Coast Trail at Oswald West State Park. With your help we'll be doing tread maintenance and brushing on the Cape Falcon Trail. Plan to hike less than a mile to the work area and work using hand digging tools, loppers, and hand saws. 9 a.m. Near Manzanita, Oregon. https://www.trailkeepersoforegon.org/organizer/trailkeepers-of-oregon/ May 18. Writing Workshop: Making Characters Come Alive. This workshop for both fiction and nonfiction writers explores the ways writers can create three-dimensional characters. Join multi-award-winning narrative nonfiction author Lauren Kessler to explore, discuss and practice the art of character building. $60. 10 a.m. Hoffman Center For The Arts, 594 Laneda Avenue, Manzanita, Oregon. May 18. Authors In Conversation. Lauren Kessler and Nancy Miller Gomez. Authors Lauren Kessler and Nancy Miller Gomez discuss the transformative power of words for prison inmates .The US has the highest rate of incarceration in the world. Listen to two authors who spent time with some of the inmates Kessler with Lifers in a maximum security prison and Gomez with men and women in jails and prisons. $7. Hoffman Center For The Arts, 594 Laneda Avenue. Manzanita, Oregon. May 18. TCWRCs 13th Annual Soup Bowl Project. All-You-Can-Eat bread, soup and dessert and live music. $50 will get you a bowl and dinner tickets, which includes selecting and keeping your handmade bowl created by a local group of potters. $25 will get you dinner only. Dinner only tickets are limited and can only be purchased at the main office 1902 2nd Street, Tillamook or at the event. 5 p.m. Pacific Restaurant. 2nd & Main. Tillamook, Oregon. 503-815-2800. www.tcwrc.net. May 19. 8th Annual Dont Get High Tea & Silent Auction. Fundraiser is an elegant afternoon luncheon, featuring tables set with linen, tea selections served in china teacups, buffet delicacies enjoyed in a relaxing atmosphere and background music by an accomplished pianist. Guests will also receive the opportunity to bid on great donations at the silent auction. Advance tickets can be purchased for $25 by calling Julia Allen at Tillamook Serenity (503) 842-1115. Admission is $30 at the door the day of the event. 2 p.m. $25 - $30. Tillamook Fairgrounds. Tillamook, Oregon. Website. May 25. Tillamook Downtown District Artwalk. Each month a variety of merchants will host local artists in a dynamic and evolving art show. For more information or a listing of the venues and artists that will be participating each month, visit: www.artaccelerated.org. 1 p.m. Tillamook, Oregon. Website. June 1. Literary Tea. Enjoy Tea & Scones ($5 per person) while meeting and learning about scheduled guests. Each author will be reading an excerpt from one or more of their books, talking about their writing process and answering questions. They will also have their books available to purchase and be signed. 3:30 p.m. La Tea Da Tea Room. 904 Main Ave. Tillamook, Oregon. 503-842-5447. www.lateadatillamook.com. June 1. Open Mic and Community Dinner. Community musicians and writers share their creativity in a family friendly, supportive atmosphere in 1916 Grange Hall with excellent acoustics and modern sound system. Dinner by donation, with proceeds supporting the continuing renovation and refurbishment of the Grange Hall. 6 p.m. Tillamook, Oregon. http://www.grange.org/fairviewor273/. nealclemery@gmail.com. June 14. 2019 Cork & Brew Tour. Kick off at 4:30 with a Launch Party that will featuring live music, games and activities. Tourists will be set loose at 6:00 PM, passports in hand, to explore downtown and revel in the experiences that each tour stop will have crafted. $45. Downtown Tillamook, Oregon. tillamookfarmersmarket.com. June 15. Oregon Coast Farm Weaving Workshop and Farm-to-Table Dinner. Connect with Seattle fiber-based multi-disciplinary artist Mandy Greer on an adventure of fiber, farm-to-table food, environmental stewardship, the natural drama of the Pacific Coast, and the interconnectedness of weaving to the healing nature of learning together. $153. 11:30 a.m. North Fork 53 Retreat Center, 77282 Highway 53. Nehalem, Oregon. (503) 368-5382. http://mandygreer.org/weaving-retreat. June 22. June Dairy Parade. Udderly A-Moo-Sing! Parade through downtown Tillamook. 10 a.m. 503-842-7525. junedairyparade.com. Lodging in Manzanita, Wheeler - Where to eat - Lodgings in Three Capes - 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 A judge on Wednesday ruled for the city of Groves in a lawsuit filed by ousted councilman Cross Coburn, who challenged the legality of the recall petition that led to his ouster. Judge Buddy Hahn, who was appointed to hear the case in Jefferson Countys 58th District Court, ruled the city clerk did not perpetrate fraud when certifying a petition calling for the recall election that was held last November. Coburn was voted out of office after nude photos of him from a gay dating app were anonymously mailed to City Hall earlier in the year. The recall measure passed by a two-thirds majority. But Coburn and his attorney say the petition used to call the recall included forged signatures and perjury. They also say theres evidence city Mayor Brad Bailey was actually behind the petition, meaning it wasnt citizen-driven. Coburn recently called on Bailey to resign and said he would drop his lawsuit in return. Despite Hahns summary judgment for the city, Coburn and his attorney are still pursuing criminal charges, most recently with the filing of a recent election fraud complaint stemming from a woman who says her signature was forged on one of the petition sheets. Theyre also waiting for the Texas Attorney Generals Office to investigate their complaints and plan to submit them to the Texas Rangers as well. Like I told Cross, sometimes when you stand up to a bully, you walk away a little bloodied and bruised, attorney Jill Pierce said. But at least you stood up to the bully. We certainly dont regret standing up to the city and bringing to light their misconduct. City Attorney James Black said the city is pleased with Wednesdays outcome. Frank Calvert, who represented the city in the matter, said the decision means as far as the citys concerned, the issue is finished. Pierce said she and Coburn are also considering what appellate remedies are available in light of the ruling. Kaitlin Bain is the Government Reporter for the Beaumont Enterprise. Contact her at Kaitlin.Bain@BeaumontEnterprise.com or on Twitter by clicking here. 3 1 of 3 Jefferson County Sheriff's Office Show More Show Less 2 of 3 Jefferson County Sheriff's Office Show More Show Less 3 of 3 A 39-year-old Houston woman was arrested in Jefferson County after a K-9 unit alerted authorities of possible narcotics in the stopped vehicle, according to information from the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office. At approximately 5:52 p.m. Monday officials observed a white Chevrolet Malibu displaying "several traffic violations" in the area of Interstate 10 near Texas 365, JCSO said. Four of the top vendors hospitals used to participate in the Medicare EHR Incentive Program are Allscripts, Cerner, Epic and Meditech, according to 2018 ONC data. Sixteen hospitals and health systems posted job listings seeking EHR and IT expertise during the past two weeks: Editor's note: This is not an exhaustive list. Job listings were compiled from job seeker websites. Allscripts: 1. Montefiore Medical Center (New York City): Seeks a senior clinical analyst. 2. Memorial Sloan Kettering (New York City): Seeks an applications analyst. 3. West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital (Sulphur, La.): Seeks a clinical analyst. 4. Ellis Hospital (Schenectady, N.Y.): Seeks a clinical informatics analyst. Cerner: 1. Seattle Children's Hospital: Seeks a digital health data analyst. 2. Virginia Mason Medical Center (Seattle): Seeks an EHR systems analyst. 3. Huntington Hospital (Pasadena, Calif.): Seeks a clinical informatics analyst. 4. Anderson Valley Health Center (Boonville, Calif.): Seeks a health information management specialist. Epic: 1. Mayo Clinic (Rochester, Minn.): Seeks an information technology applications analyst. 2. Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital (Chicago): Seeks an applications analyst. 3. UW Health (Madison, Wis.): Seeks a clinical systems analyst. 4. Vidant Health (Greenville, N.C.): Seeks a population health applications analyst. Meditech: 1. Medical City Healthcare (Fort Worth, Texas): Seeks a clinical informatics director. 2. St. John's Episcopal Hospital (New York City): Seeks an IT applications and informatics manager. 3. Onslow Memorial Hospital (Jacksonville, N.C.): Seeks a clinical informatics specialist. 4. Exeter (N.H.) Hospital: Seeks an applications analyst. Roughly 10 months after Dayton, Ohio-based Good Samaritan Hospital shut down, investigators from HHS' Office for Civil Rights are in Dayton, Ohio, to interview local residents who say they were harmed by the closure, according to the Dayton Daily News. Dayton-based Premier Health announced plans in January 2018 to shut down Good Samaritan Hospital and closed the facility in July. The health system said operating two hospitals Good Samaritan and Miami Valley Hospital in Dayton within 5 miles of each other had become unsustainable. A few months before the hospital closed, the Clergy Community Coalition filed a complaint with HHS' Office for Civil Rights claiming the closure of Good Samaritan would "have a discriminatory and separate adverse impact on African Americans and women." Although the hospital closed, the investigation continues. Federal officials are interviewing local residents about the hospital closure this week. The Clergy Community Coalition is trying to arrange for about 140 people who claim they were harmed by the hospital shutdown to speak with investigators, according to the report. In a statement to the Dayton Daily News, Premier Health said it is cooperating with the investigation. "We do not believe that the allegations have merit, as Premier Health continues to be the largest provider of indigent services in our region and one of the largest providers of such services in the state of Ohio," Premier said. More articles on healthcare finance: 11 health systems with strong finances Hedge fund manager predicts CHS will go bankrupt Washington health system files for bankruptcy, cites issues with revenue cycle vendor More hospitals are looking to adopt virtual care solutions to enhance the role of nurses and improve patient care. Take for example Englewood, Colo.-based Catholic Health Initiatives which is part of Chicago-based CommonSpirit Health, the organization created by the merger of CHI and San Francisco-based Dignity Health. In 2014, CHI launched its trademarked VIC (Virtually Integrated Care) model as a pilot program at Lincoln, Neb.-based CHI Health St. Elizabeth, thanks to initial funding through CHI's Institute for Research and Innovation. After receiving a $1.45 million HHS grant, CHI expanded the virtual care program to 20 beds in the adult inpatient unit at St. Elizabeth, and 24 adult inpatient beds at CHI Health Good Samaritan in Kearney, Neb., in 2016. That same year, CHI applied for a patent for "systems and methods for virtually integrated care delivery." The patent names Kathy Sanford, RN, CNO of CommonSpirit Health and formerly CHI's senior vice president and CNO, as the inventor and describes a model that connects bedside staff and a licensed nurse to the care team virtually. "We've been tinkering around the edges on this kind of technology," Ms. Sanford said. "This is the next big step in connecting to virtual care management we will break down siloes and reduce or eliminate fragmented care at the same time we improve care and reduce costs." Now, CHI seeks to expand the model. How the model works The initial idea for the model came from a team led by Ms. Sanford. The team considered that nurses in hospitals often care for multiple patients at one time amid distractions in the facility. This can take the caregiver's attention away from an individual patient and lead to errors. By using technology and changing the traditional nurse staffing and team model, they saw opportunities to improve quality and safety in hospitals and other sites of care. "Individuals often experience their care as fragmented. Telehealth can be used to connect patients across the entire continuum of care," said Ms. Sanford. Under CHI's model, the virtual nurse, who coordinates and manages care for up to 12 patients at a time, is the primary caregiver for the patient and has real-time access to patient records. He or she is also able to talk to the patient at any time via a two-way camera and virtually makes rounds with physicians on medical-surgical units. The virtual nurse is available to help with admissions and discharge planning and has access to lab results, test results and vital signs to closely monitor patient changes. Under CHI's model, patients can maintain their privacy while having access to a virtual nurse, according to Ms. Sanford. The camera is not on the patient all the time. Whenever the nurse is about to "enter the room" there is a doorbell chime a minute before the camera activates. Virtual nurses also help keep patients and their families informed. If a patient's family members miss the physician's rounds, they can contact the virtual nurse (with the patient's permission) when they come to the hospital. The virtual nurse can explain to the patient or family what the physician said and answer any questions. Since virtual nurses consistently communicate with patients as well as the onsite integrated care team, the nurses can identify care issues that need to be addressed and notify the team about these. The virtual care nurses must have at least a master's degree in nursing. Ms. Sanford said they focus on the science behind the patient's care, while managing and coordinating the hospital stay, and provide guidance and leadership to newer on-site nurses and the care team. "This model is not just about the technology utilized for tele-nursing. It also changes the roles of various team members and provides nursing leadership for non-licensed unit personnel. It is high-tech because, of course, the virtual person isn't there physically," said Ms. Sanford, "but it's still high-touch, because the team on the nursing unit is concentrating on personal patient-centered care." Next steps Ms. Sanford said CHI has received positive feedback from patients about the virtually integrated care, and the health system plans to expand the model to more units. "We need to take the acute virtually integrated care model, spread it, and try different team configurations to see what works best on various types of nursing units. Then, the next step will be to tie the inpatient virtual nurse to virtual care managers located outside of the hospital," said Ms. Sanford. Under CHI's model, the acute virtual team will connect with virtual outpatient care managers who interact with patients to help them integrate their wellness activities and medical care. The goal is for virtual care managers to use technology to maintain a relationship with the patients for a certain period of time post-hospitalization. Those professionals would be available to answer questions about any post-discharge needs. For example, they could check in on a patient who is not making a follow-up appointment after they leave the hospital. "It is our goal to have a personalized care model, with a care plan started in the hospital or provider's office. That plan would include how the patient desires to communicate. Do they want a phone call? Do they want Skype? Or do they want Facebook?" Ms. Sanford said. "We now have a good start on the inpatient portion of a coordinated virtually integrated care model. The next step is to figure out how to implement the model across the continuum." More articles on health IT: Hackers steal $40M in bitcoin 53% of execs see blockchain as a top-5 strategic priority, Deloitte survey finds Allscripts' Practice Fusion hit with grand jury subpoena over meaningful use claims, HIPAA compliance Here's the latest roundup of stories about 19 health information technology companies, including Google, IBM, Microsoft and Apple. 1. Google announced the 20 winners of its AI Impact Challenge on May 7, including seven projects focused specifically on improving public health through the use of artificial intelligence. 2. Amid ongoing federal, state, private and internal investigations into genomic testing startup uBiome's billing practices, Federal Trade Commission records show that dozens of customers filed complaints about the company in recent months. 3. Google is developing a deep learning model that can detect early-stage lung cancer in CT scans up to a year before a trained radiologist's diagnosis. 4. EHR vendor Practice Fusion, a subsidiary of Allscripts, received a grand jury subpoena in March in relation to an ongoing criminal investigation. 5. Starbucks will implement Microsoft's Azure Blockchain Service, which was launched last week, to track coffee production. 6. Syniverse and IBM teamed up to develop an open-source blockchain network that aims to validate wholesale billing and charging processes. 7. Apple will release new health features for the Apple Watch as part of its software strategy update at its annual Worldwide Developers Conference in San Jose, Calif., which begins June 3. 8. IBM Watson Health Imaging's Patient Synopsis went live at Hardin Memorial Health in Elizabethtown, Ky., on May 6, making the health system the first to implement the artificial intelligence-powered software. 9. Touchstone Medical Imaging has agreed to pay $3 million to the Office for Civil Rights at HHS to settle allegations that the medical imaging provider violated HIPAA. 10. Genomics startup uBiome announced that it is temporarily halting clinical operations and refunding any pending out-of-pocket payments in an email sent to customers on May 6. 11. With a big investment from Berkshire Hathaway's CEO and chairman Warren Buffett, Apple's CEO Tim Cook said the company is no longer a technology company. 12. Though Facebook has not been as vocal as other tech giants about its forays into healthcare, Freddy Abnousi, MD, the social media platform's head of health research, recently discussed how Facebook's 15 years' worth of data can be used for innovation and analysis in healthcare. 13. After genomics startup uBiome's San Francisco headquarters was raided by the FBI as part of an investigation into its billing practices, patients and company insiders have come forward to discuss those practices. 14. Allscripts posted $286 million in bookings for the first quarter of 2019, up 9 percent year over year. 15. JPMorgan Chase has tapped Microsoft to help it expand its blockchain platform, aiming to make it easier for companies to develop and deploy blockchain applications. 16. Health information technology company CPSI reported $69 million in revenue for the first quarter of 2019, down 1 percent year over year. 17. The Department of Homeland Security and Philips issued an alert April 30 that the information technology vendor's EMR system Tasy has a cross-site scripting vulnerability that could put patient information at risk. 18. Fitbit's new devices contributed to more than half of the company's revenue for the first quarter of 2019, which increased 10 percent year over year. 19. Apple reported a 5 percent decrease in revenue for the second quarter of 2019, but revenue from the company's wearables, home and accessories category rose year over year. Rick Napper, president and CEO of Odessa, Texas-based Medical Center Health System, is planning to retire, effective Sept. 15, according to an Odessa American report. Three notes: 1. Mr. Napper has led the organization since Dec. 17, 2017, a press release obtained by the Odessa American notes. 2. He decided to retire because of the "ongoing challenges of healthcare and concern for the impact that it may have on my health," he said. 3. Mr. Napper oversaw the organization for part of its troubled rollout of the Cerner EHR, which began in April 2017. Cerner eventually took over the IT department at Medical Center Health System in August 2018. More articles on executive moves: 12 latest hospital, health system executive resignations Pamela Daley Whelton is Massachusetts hospital's first female president: 4 points Hackensack Meridian Health names 2 hospital chiefs: 6 things to know Blue Cross Blue Shield of Vermont said glitches in a new automated system have caused delays in claim payments, according to the VTDigger. The Vermont State Employees Association is calling on BCBSVT to pay performance penalties for not reimbursing more than $20 million in claims related to 6,000-plus requests from state employees and retirees. When VSEA's Benefits Advisory Committee met with BCBSVT, insurance representatives said a new system installed in January is responsible for the backlog. Under the new system, BCBSVT has had trouble verifying the accuracy of some of the claims, according to the VTDigger. BCBSVT told the publication it is "making every effort to minimize the impact of our technology upgrade on our customers. We acknowledge that this process has caused confusion and delays. BCBSVT will continue to work diligently with customers, members and providers." More articles on payers: Judge steps down from UnitedHealth case over 'immoral' denial of cancer treatment House Democrats unveil Medicare expansion plan: 8 things to know Humana posts $566M profit in Q1 The CEO of Health Alliance Plan, a subsidiary of Henry Ford Health System in Detroit, will retire June 30, according to a news release obtained by Becker's Hospital Review. Three things to know: 1. HAP CEO Teresa Kline has held the position since late 2016. Michael Genord, MD, the health plan's senior vice president and CMO, will serve as president and CEO while Henry Ford conducts a CEO search. 2. Ms. Kline was central to the health insurer's $30 million turnaround. In the first half of 2019, HAP grew its Medicare Advantage market share after a decade of lower enrollment. 3. Under her leadership, HAP also expanded its partnerships, in one case collaborating with two physician organizations to offer primary care-based Medicare Advantage plans. More articles on payers: Judge steps down from UnitedHealth case over 'immoral' denial of cancer treatment House Democrats unveil Medicare expansion plan: 8 things to know Humana posts $566M profit in Q1 A judge denied an emergency bid from Johnson & Johnson to transfer 2,400 state lawsuits tied to its baby powder immediately to a federal court in Delaware, according to Bloomberg. The drugmaker aimed to move the lawsuits to federal court so it could forge a single defense strategy. U.S. District Judge Maryellen Noreika dismissed J&J's request, arguing that the drugmaker is partially responsible for the "bloomlet of litigation," according to the report. "J&J's desire to centralize its own state law litigation does not justify the finding of an emergency" requiring immediate transfer, she added in her 11-page ruling. J&J is facing 14,000 claims that its talc products contained traces of asbestos, which caused people's ovarian cancer or mesothelioma. The Healthy Nevada Project a population health study that combines genetic, clinical, environmental and social data is offering free genetic testing to 25,000 residents of Las Vegas. The project was launched in September 2016 by Reno, Nev.-based Renown Health and Desert Research Institute, which studies the effects of environmental change. The initial launch was met with huge interest: 10,000 people signed up for DNA testing in just 48 hours. The second phase of the study began in March 2018, when Healthy Nevada Project and its partner, Helix, offered full genomic sequencing to residents in the northern part of the state. The project has enrolled more than 35,000 people in the past two and a half years. The latest phase of the project brings testing to another part of the state and to another 25,000 residents through a partnership with the University Medical Center of Southern Nevada. The goal of the project is to offer every resident of Nevada genetic testing and to combine this information with environmental data and data on socioeconomic determinants of health to address health issues at the population level. "Nevada was ripe to advance population health goals because, sadly, our state ranks near the bottom in health outcomes. The Healthy Nevada Project is working to change that," Anthony Slonim, MD, president and CEO of Renown Health and president of Renown IHI, said in a press release. "Our researchers are working on a number of clinical programs and scientific studies to determine why in Washoe County, the county in which Renown Health is located, Nevada's age-adjusted death rates for heart disease, cancer and chronic lower respiratory disease are 33 percent higher than the national rate. Imagine if we can gather more data like this on a national scale and use it to change the future of health and health care? That is what the Healthy USA Project is looking to do in the years to come." More articles on population health: Kaiser Permanente launches network to address social needs Spike in suicide-by-poisoning seen among teens since 2011 NIH: Netflix's '13 Reasons Why' associated with 28% increase in youth suicide rates Some states are proposing legislation to enact stricter rules for vaccine exemptions as measles cases surge to record-high levels in the U.S. Below are eight states that have introduced bills this year to support stricter vaccine requirements. Note: This is not an exhaustive list. 1. Washington state senators on April 17 passed legislation that would make it harder for parents to achieve personal or philosophical exemptions for the mumps, measles and rubella vaccine in children. 2. Florida lawmakers introduced a bill that would require healthcare professionals to report immunizations to a state registry. 3. A bill in the Oregon state legislature would bar parents from seeking nonmedical vaccine exemptions for their children, reports NPR. 4. Colorado lawmakers were reviewing a bill that would've made it more difficult for parents to achieve a vaccine exemption for a child, but the legislation died on the Senate floor May 2, according to The Denver Post. 5. Maine lawmakers introduced a bill that would remove philosophical and religious exemptions from school vaccination laws, reports the Portland Press Herald. 6. New York is examining a bill that would no longer permit parents or guardians with "genuine and sincere religious beliefs" against immunizations to receive exemptions for children, reports The New York Times. A second bill introduced in the Senate in March would allow any child 14 years or older to receive vaccinations, regardless of their parents' wishes. 7. New Jersey lawmakers in February drafted an amended bill that would only permit children to forgo vaccinations for medical reasons, reports NJ Spotlight. 8. Connecticut also has draft legislation that would ban religious vaccine exemptions, according to the Connecticut Post. More articles on clinical leadership and infection control: How hospitals are preventing device-related infections Genetically engineered viruses treat superbug infection for 1st time San Francisco subpoenas pediatrician over vaccine exemptions He survived the rough streets of Chicago, served in the cramped quarters of a Navy sub and navigated his way to the high-tech world of Intel. Meet CorDarryl Hall MBA19, whos receiving his degree from the Atkinson Graduate School of Management this month. As a data analyst for Intel, Hall helps the company identify and hire the best talent possible. The position became permanent in March following a yearlong internship, and now hes turning numbers into images that are more powerful than words. I like data analytics because of storytelling, Hall said. With statistics, you can tell a story just by analyzing data and putting the results into a graph. I feel like everything and everyone has a story. Halls story began in a troubled home on the south side of Chicago. The third of eight siblings, he had to contend with parents who struggled with substance abuse. He assumed the role of family provider in high school, working three jobs to make ends meet. It was really difficult, Hall said. But I kept my head in the books and became really successful in high school. I saw what my parents were doing and flashed forward 10 years, 15 years, and I just had to be different. Im not ashamed of where I come from, but I have to do better and help my family see a different side of life. After graduating in the top 10% of his class, Hall followed his own path to the University of Arizona. He earned his bachelors degree in public administration one semester early, but the timing was far from ideal. It was 2011, and the nation was still reeling from the Great Recession. Hall surveyed the employment landscape, did some soul-searching and decided to join the Navy. He served the country with distinction, earning four letters of commendation and a Navy Achievement Medal during his four years aboard a submarine. But Hall wanted to do something else with his life. He knew an MBA would expand his career options, and hed developed an affinity for the Pacific Northwest when he was stationed in Bremerton, Washington. He quickly narrowed his choices to two schools in Oregon before settling on Willamette. I chose Willamette because the MBA career management team really stood out, and Atkinson has a great job placement rate, Hall said. A career in human resources appealed to him because he enjoyed interacting with people. And after talking with Lisbeth Claus, Atkinsons professor of management and global human resources, he saw an opportunity to put his love of numbers to work. Speaking with her made me look deeper into HR, and it made me think about where I would end up, Hall said. Data analytics stuck out to me because I was always a fan of numbers. Professors Robert Walker and Mike Hand gave Hall a firm foundation in data modeling and storytelling, while professor Larry Ettner taught him how to make effective presentations in a boardroom setting. Now Hall is comfortable sharing his insights with Intels executive team. I didnt think that was possible for someone like me whod never seen a boardroom before, Hall said. The professors at Willamette are brilliant, but they meet us where were at. Thats something I really appreciate about Willamette. Hall also appreciates the relationships hes forged with faculty, staff and alumni. Those connections led him to Intel, where hes embarking on the next chapter of a remarkable story. Prior to coming to Atkinson, I didnt know how to network, Hall said. Networking, along with the tools I developed at Willamette, helped me get this job. Now Im working with data inside of human resources, where I eventually wanted to end up. It just happened sooner than I thought it would. San Francisco's city attorney is subpoenaing a local pediatrician for anonymous medical records as part of an ongoing investigation into vaccine exemptions. City Attorney Dennis Herrera is investigating whether Kenneth Stoller, MD, has been illegally granting vaccine exemptions to children who do not have a legitimate medical condition that warrants an exemption. These actions would violate a 2016 state law that requires all school-aged children in California to be vaccinated unless they qualify for a medical exemption approved by a physician. Mr. Herrera alleges that Dr. Stoller is a vocal vaccine opponent who told an anti-vaccine website that he bases medical exemption decisions off of two 30-minute patient visits and a 23andMe genetic test. 23andMe's website says its tests should not be used to inform medical decisions. Dr. Stoller has 15 days to respond to the city's subpoena, which was issued May 8. "We're going to review the matter," his lawyer, Richard Jaffe, said in a statement cited by The Sacramento Bee. "I don't see how this has anything to do with the city of San Francisco. He's a medical doctor giving advice to patients." More articles on clinical leadership and infection control: NYC cites 84 people for refusing measles vaccines How hospitals are preventing device-related infections Genetically engineered viruses treat superbug infection for 1st time The Massachusetts Nurses Association will reviving its push for mandatory nurse-to-patient staffing ratios in the state after a failed attempt last fall, according to the Boston Business Journal. The union is supporting legislation that would pave the way for such limits. The legislation, sponsored by state Sen. Diana DiZoglio and state Rep. Dan Ryan, would call for the state public health department and Health Policy Commission to hire an independent researcher to study staffing and other nursing issues, according to the Journal. That research would then be used by lawmakers to determine staffing needs for Massachusetts. "If these studies determine there is a best practice limit on the number of patients a nurse should care for at one time, that should inform future policy discussions," union spokesperson Joe Markman told the Journal. Last year, the union called for nurse-to-patient staffing ratios ranging from 1-to-1 to 1-to-6 based on different situations. After months of debate, the legislative initiative failed during the 2018 midterm elections in November. The Massachusetts Health and Hospital Association, an opponent of last year's ballot effort, told the Journal that the most recent proposal simply revisits last year's. More articles on workforce: 69% of healthcare leaders hire for workplace culture fit, poll finds Hospitals add 8,300 jobs in April Arizona hospital under construction seeks nurses, other healthcare workers Here are 10 key notes on spine and orthopedic device companies: Medtronic's senior director of corporate communications left the company because his position was eliminated. Globus Medical released its first quarter financial report, showing large sales increases overseas. Former executives of the defunct Laser Spine Institute of Tampa, Fla., joined medical device company Medovex. SeaSpine Holdings Corp. posted first quarter 2019 revenues of $36.2 million, a 9 percent year-over-year increase. Medical technology company Conformis reported first quarter 2019 revenues of $20.6 million. The National Capital Consortium for Pediatric Device Innovation of Washington, D.C., named five winners of the Make Your Medical Device Pitch for Kids competition. AMB Surgical, Auctus Surgical, ApiFix, Children's National Health System and nView Medical all received $50,000 grants. RTI Surgical completed its acquisition of Paradigm Spine in the first quarter and reported a net loss at $9.1 million. Smith & Nephew reported first quarter revenue climbed 4.4 percent. In the first quarter of 2019, NuVasive posted a 5.5 percent increase in revenue. Orthofix reported flat net sales during the first quarter of 2019 and net income dropped 82.7 percent. Michael Chmell, MD, is the medical director of Rockford-based Ortho Illinois Surgery Center. Here, he shares his thoughts on modern challenges facing orthopedic surgeons, bundled payments and opportunities to advance the field. Question: What are the one or two biggest challenges for you as an orthopedic surgeon today? What keeps you up at night? Dr. Michael Chmell: I think the biggest challenge in orthopedic surgery is remaining independent, not working at the behest of hospital systems. Part two of this is whether the ongoing trend of "super groups," with dozens or hundreds of members is the correct path to compete with this system or doomed to follow the same path. My view is that independent practices of 10 to 25 surgeons is optimal in terms of providing economical quality care, optimizing the best surgeons performing the correct cases. Q: How do you see bundled payments, value-based care and other new payment models affecting orthopedics? MC: Regarding bundled payments, I view this as optimal for providing economically correct care for our patients with the highest quality. No one knows the best way to treat a total hip or knee patient better than their surgeon, who under such a system will direct all care. That being said, an infrastructure is needed to carry out bundled patients: risk assessment nursing pre-op, nurse managers to assist with the bundle post-op, dedicated anesthesiology and physical therapy. Once the system is in place, however, private orthopedic practices and ASCs should hugely outperform any hospital system in terms of profitability. Q: Where is the best opportunity for orthopedic surgeons to advance the field? MC: Orthopedic surgeons need to take on a greater role in patient care. We need to play a greater role in such things as BMI reduction, HbA1C reduction and the elimination of unnecessary testing, such as MRIs done for inappropriate patients. Taking such things out of the primary care or educating them more could save more money than bundled payments in my opinion. We should market ourselves as musculoskeletal primary care and take over all such testing, rather than have it originate at a medical primary care office. To participate in future Becker's Q&As, contact Alan Condon at acondon@beckershealthcare.com. Learn more about key trends in spine surgery at the Becker's 17th Annual Future of Spine + The Spine, Orthopedic and Pain Management-Driven ASC Conference, June 13-15 in Chicago. Click here to learn more and register. For more information about exhibitor and sponsor opportunities, contact Maura Jodoin at mjodoin@beckershealthcare.com. Three spine surgeons discuss how they make sure their relationships with patients do not suffer due to the increase in health IT use. Ask Spine Surgeons is a weekly series of questions posed to spine surgeons around the country about clinical, business and policy issues affecting spine care. We invite all spine surgeon and specialist responses. Next week's question: What are the key non-clinical skills every spine surgeon needs to have? Please send responses to Anuja Vaidya at avaidya@beckershealthcare.com by Wednesday, May 15, 5 p.m. CST. Question: How can spine surgeons ensure health IT tools do not get in the way of the physician-patient relationship? Mark M. Mikhael, MD. Spine Surgeon at NorthShore Orthopaedic & Spine Institute and Illinois Bone & Joint Institute (Chicago & Glenview, Ill.): Spine surgeons need to remind themselves of interpersonal skills as they input information during clinic visits. With an increase in screen time, surgeons should be sure to look at patients as you're listening to them. Take time to make eye contact during the exam and as you're addressing patient modalities. For administrative time-savers in our increasingly tech-dependent world, surgeons can use voice-to-text for dictation and employ tablets for patients so they can input information themselves during down time. Making these small changes should allow more quality time together [with patients] and strengthen the physician-patient relationship. Brian R. Gantwerker, MD. Founder of the Craniospinal Center of Los Angeles: Thanks to the prevalence on work-intensive EMR charts, this is a daunting task. I act like a scribe for the patient. I don't say much for the first half of a visit. I concentrate on what brings them to the office. I maintain eye contact and engage, sometimes repeating back what they just said. Or, I will reinterpret it back to them for clarity purposes. Eye contact, I find is the easiest way to keep that going. The EMR is not the great hope as it was touted to us a decade ago. As physicians, you have to resist the urge to close off and allow the software to widen the gap. If you find your EMR pulls you too far away from them, maybe it's time for a new program. Some people hire scribes, but I feel that is an unnecessary, and frankly, silly way of spending valuable resources. Examining the patient is also a way to get back to the roots of what we do, back when doctors visited patients in their parlors and brought with them that iconic little black bag. Issada Thongtrangan, MD. Orthopedic Spine and Neurosurgeon at Minimally Invasive Spine (Phoenix): The adoption of EMRs has led to many improvements in healthcare by providing physicians access to the comprehensive medical histories of their patients. Recent evidence found that doctors who use EHRs spend nearly one-third of their time looking at the screen. This lack of focus might impede communication with the patient and interfere with patient engagement. It is very important for me to directly engage with the patient and their family members by looking them in the eyes, listening to them and empathizing with their problems. I can easily miss nonverbal clues from them if I am looking at my computer. I want to make sure that their visits are worthwhile and that they understand their problems and the plans to get them better. I can finish my electronic notes later. Flybe has announced its winter schedule from Belfast, which includes 12 routes and 508 flights a week. However, the future of its regular Cardiff connection remains unclear. This is the first flight schedule released by the airline since its takeover by a consortium led by Virgin Atlantic. Flybe is Europe's largest regional airline and is George Best Belfast City Airport's anchor service provider. Its new schedule will include seven days of services between Belfast and Birmingham and Belfast and Manchester, while London City will be served by six daily flights. Edinburgh and Glasgow each have up to four flights per day. However, the airline confirmed a service to Liverpool had been lost. The company said it was working with Cardiff Airport and its partners to finalise the content of the 2019-20 winter schedule to and from the Welsh capital. Flybe's chief commercial officer, Roy Kinnear, added: "We have an extensive choice of destinations, not only for winter short breaks, but also for essential business travel with the opportunity to book the lowest possible fares. "Flybe's network makes it easier than ever for our customers to travel from George Best Belfast City Airport to 12 domestic destinations, as well as offering onward seamless connections via its global codeshare partners through its hubs in Manchester and Birmingham." Business rates in Northern Ireland are to be reviewed by government in a bid to bring the system up to date, it was announced today. The Department of Finance announced it would carry out a full and comprehensive review of the rates paid by businesses including pubs and shops. But it warned that without ministers in government in Northern Ireland, the changes it could introduce were limited. Lobby groups like Retail NI, the NI Retail Consortium and Hospitality NI have carried out a lengthy campaign calling for a review of the rates system. Bricks and mortar shops say that the viability of their businesses is undermined by big rates bills while their biggest competitors online do not face the same overheads. Sue Gray, Permanent Secretary at the Department of Finance, said: In recent years significant changes have taken place in our high streets and town centres. It is critical from a business perspective, as well as a government funding perspective, that our rating system is capable of responding to this wider process of change. Thats why today I am announcing a full and comprehensive review of business rates. We must create a rating system which generates the funding our public services need while supporting businesses in all sector and enabling economic growth right across Northern Ireland. She said that without ministers, there were limits to the policy changes which can be carried out by civil servants. But she added that we need to be ready with updated advice for incoming Ministers for their return to office . This fundamental review is therefore a critical part of this process. Retail NI and Hospitality NI welcomed the announcement of the review. While this is not an end in itself, it is a means to an end, their chief executives said. This review provides us with a roadmap for radical change to an antiquated and not fit for purpose system of business rates which is a major burden for our members. Roger Pollen, head of external affairs at the Federation of Small Businesses, said: We very much welcome this review. Rates are a disproportionate burden on smaller businesses and restrict their ability to invest, grow and create jobs. A significantly higher proportion of small businesses in Great Britain are exempt from rates compared to their counterparts in Northern Ireland, and the benefit of enhanced rates relief announced by the Chancellor at the last budget was not passed on to firms here. Meghan Markles mother Doria Ragland has been an essential part of royal watch culture for more than a year now. As her daughter, now Britains Duchess of Sussex, wed Prince Harry last May in Windsor Castle, she arrived solo and carried herself with a sense of confidence and grace which was universally praised. While the grooms family sat opposite her, filled with support from a neverending parade of siblings, cousins and aunts and uncles, she held her head high and observed lovingly as her daughter exchanged vows in one of the most talked about weddings in modern history. Prior to that moment, pictures of Doria were a valuable commodity. Meghan shared a few on her now-defunct Instagram page and there were the occasional paparazzi shots in which she would join her daughter when they were pictured en route to a yoga class during the early days of her romance with Harry. But she made her first official appearance the same time her daughter did - at the Invictus Games in Toronto in 2017 - as she dutifully joined the couple when the worlds media first turned its gaze onto them. Earlier in the day, Meghan and Harry made their first appearance together and later, Doria joined them from the relative safety of public scrutiny in a private box for the closing ceremony. Expand Close Duke and Duchess of Sussex with their newborn baby son Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor with Meghans mother, Doria Ragland, the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh at Windsor Castle PA / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Duke and Duchess of Sussex with their newborn baby son Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor with Meghans mother, Doria Ragland, the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh at Windsor Castle Read More Its clear that for the big moments, Meghan always wants her mother by her side. And she has been given pride of place in the Sussexes new life as parents to baby Archie. She was overjoyed at the arrival of a baby boy on Monday, as per the Buckingham Palace official announcement, and featured in pictures released yesterday alongside Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip. It was also the first time in history that a British monarch was pictured alongside a royal baby's African-American grandmother. By comparison, the Middletons only featured in portraits alongside the queen at Kate and Williams 2011 wedding and later for christening images of Prince George and Princess Charlotte. Its not only reflective of a strong mother-daughter bond, but its imperative that Meghan has equal representation on her side of the family instead of being swallowed whole entirely by the British royals. Since her father Thomas Markle ousted himself from her inner circle by staging paparazzi shots before her wedding in exchange for payment, deciding not to attend her wedding two days before where he was due to walk her up the aisle and consistently selling stories about her in the press, Doria is her saving grace. In February, when Thomas shared private letters his daughter wrote him pleading with him to stop pandering to the tabloids and focus on rebuilding his relationship with her instead. His decision to publish them in the Daily Mail was the final nail in the coffin. For years, she spoke fondly of him, but the temptations of international fame eventually proved too difficult to resist - even at the cost of a lasting relationship with his youngest child. He rightfully did not receive credit in any official announcements made by the palace and although he released a gracious statement after his grandsons birth, he has essentially been washed from this moment in history and its questionable whether or not he will ever meet Archie. Harry still hasnt met him in person. Doria, from whom he divorced in 1988, understands the value of privacy and discretion. She has never said a word publicly about her daughter, only through official channels as expected. Sources have said she would never do anything to jeopardise her relationship with Meghan and seeks her blessing for anything that might result in headlines - such as a yoga session with Oprah last year. Expand Close The Duchess of Sussexs mother Doria Ragland, seated on her own at the royal wedding (Dominic Lipinski/PA) PA Wire/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp The Duchess of Sussexs mother Doria Ragland, seated on her own at the royal wedding (Dominic Lipinski/PA) When it came to the wedding, Dorias name was considered as the potential replacement to walk her up the aisle after Thomas Sr backed out, but in the end they agreed it was too much pressure to put on her at the last minute. And similar to Harrys mother Princess Dianas inclusion of her sons in how fortunate they are, Doria would often educate Meghan on those less fortunate she was. At the age of 10, she took her to visit disadvantaged children in Rwanda, slums in Jamaica and poverty in Mexico. My mother raised me to be a global citizen, with eyes open to sometimes harsh realities, Meghan wrote previously on The Tig. Its of little surprise then that Meghan has carried these characteristics into her adulthood, which would eventually prove to be the catalyst for the spark that brought her and her husband together. Her sense of altruism also applied to her work. She has a BA in Psychology and received a Masters degree in social work from the University of Southern California in 2011. She spent most of her recent working years at the Didi Hirsch mental health clinic in Culver City, California. She is the very definition of a free spirit: the 62-year-old is a yoga instructor (she first introduced her daughter to the yogi lifestyle with mommy-and-me classes when the duchess was seven) who enjoys her quiet life in Los Angeles, in between jet-setting to the UK with unfettered palace access. Expand Close The Duchess of Sussex, accompanied by husband Harry and her mother, Doria Ragland, at Kensington Palace (Ben Stansall/PA) PA Archive/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp The Duchess of Sussex, accompanied by husband Harry and her mother, Doria Ragland, at Kensington Palace (Ben Stansall/PA) For years, Meghan has proclaimed her unwavering affection and admiration for her mother, both in interviews and on her former blog The Tig, each description more charming than the last. Dreadlocks. Nose ring. Yoga instructor. Social worker. Free spirit. Lover of potato chips & lemon tarts. And if the DJ cues Al Greens soul classic Call Me, just forget it, Meghan wrote of her mother in 2014. She will swivel her hips into the sweetest little dance youve ever seen, swaying her head and snapping her fingers to the beat like shes been dancing since the womb. And you will smile. You wont be able to help it. You will look at her and you will feel joy." In the same Mothers Day essay, she wrote of her mothers kindness when dealing with her grandmothers, or, more specifically, She was showing me how to be a daughter, not just in that moment, but for when I became that grown woman. It would seem the lessons in life have been successfully learned and Meghan is rewarding Doria with a return in the love and affection she showered on so many others. While Meghans circle tightened after she became a future duchess, her mother remained a constant: she helped plan the wedding and flew out last month to help with last minute preparations ahead of the birth of baby Archie. She even has her own room for long stays at Frogmore Cottage. Kate Middletons mother Carole famously moved in with her and Prince William in the weeks following Prince Georges birth in 2013, but there is a noted difference between both in-laws - geography. All the Middletons are all based in the UK and Kate has access to and endless support network in the form of her parents and siblings; while Meghan is essentially afloat in a foreign country (of which she is now a duchess) and has strained relations with most of her troublesome family. These visits and moments alongside her mother are important, not only for her at a very human level, but also a means to silence Meghans critics, who choose to focus on her lack of correspondence with some family members; who frankly no one would blame any other person for cutting off. Expand Close Meghan Markles mother, Doria Ragland, is of African-American heritage (Steve Parsons/PA) PA Archive/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Meghan Markles mother, Doria Ragland, is of African-American heritage (Steve Parsons/PA) Her half-sister Samantha is writing a book about princess pushy and regularly goes on rage-filled rants about her on social media referring to her as duchASS, her half-brother Thomas Jr was arrested twice in the last two years - once for holding a gun to his girlfriends head in 2017 and in January of this year for driving under the influence. Her nephew Tyler Dooley, who recently appeared on a royal-adjacent MTV reality show. He was involved in a fight with 20 others outside a bar in Oregon one day before Archies birth. The headlines around her family are rarely positive, except for the coverage around her saving grace Doria, who holds herself with equally regal manner as any of the royals who were literally taught how to carry themselves from birth. On social media and in royal-themed Facebook groups and Reddit threads, Doria is a universal peace bringer to the in-fighting around royal politics and personal preferences. She might not be an official member of the British royal family, but she remains an exciting addition to the narrative around her daughter's rise to fame - and her new role as grandmother to little Master Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor. A husband and wife allegedly kept a Nigerian woman with the learning age of a four-year-old as their domestic slave after she was brought to Belfast to be a maid and babysitter, the High Court was told. Prosecutors claimed she received no payment and was unable to leave a locked family home amid fears of being returned to a life of poverty. Details emerged as pregnant mother-of-two Precious Izekor was refused bail on a charge of requiring the woman to perform forced or compulsory labour over a nine-month period. The 25-year-old financial adviser, of Castlereagh Place in east Belfast, is accused along with her husband, 33-year-old Nigerian national Osarobo Izekor, of committing the offence between December 2016 and October 2017. The couple are the first to be prosecuted in Northern Ireland for alleged involvement in domestic servitude. Detectives from the PSNI's Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Unit were called in after the alleged 30-year-old victim told a church friend about how she was brought to Northern Ireland in 2011, the court heard. Crown lawyer Jonny Connolly said the woman claimed she was not allowed access to her passport or visa. According to her account she worked at two locations as part of a wider family arrangement, and was at one point told that she would receive up to 350 a month for cooking, cleaning and childcare duties. It was alleged, however, that she was paid no cash while her family back in Nigeria received the equivalent of 21 a month. Setting out the woman's vulnerabilities, Mr Connolly said she cannot read or write, adding: "She was assessed as having a learning age of four." During interviews the woman said she had been concerned about potentially being sent back to poverty in Nigeria. "She said she was not allowed out, she was always working and looking after the children," counsel continued. "On more than one occasion Precious would leave the house and lock the door." The alleged victim stated that she believed she would be given freedom after working for five years. Judge Donna McColgan QC was also told the woman thought she was going to marry a cousin of Osarobo Izekor who is currently thought to be living in Sweden. Precious Izekor, who holds dual British and Sierra Leonean nationality, was arrested last week in Glasgow. Her barrister, Barry Gibson, told the court she has worked for Santander since obtaining a degree in economics from Stirling University. "All of a sudden her life has been turned upside down," he said. "She has been taken from her children, she is pregnant and she has been put in custody on the word of a young girl who was living within a family who were her benefactors." Mr Gibson argued that the complainant is making false accusations in an attempt to be able to remain in the United Kingdom. A valid contract confirming her employment status as a domestic worker was lodged with the Home Office, he stressed. "The allegation that she was enslaved within the family unit, that is totally rejected by my client," the barrister said. "This is a girl sponsored by this family to come to the UK, and it's only when her immigration status is an an issue that she has turned on this family, and turned on them in a vicious way." Denying bail, however, Judge McColgan cited the potential risks of flight and interference with witnesses. She said: "These are very, very serious alleged offences and investigations are ongoing." Bereaved families of a number of people killed during Northern Irelands Troubles have announced a second Time for Truth march to take place in Belfast in June. (Rebecca Black/PA) A group of families bereaved by incidents from Northern Irelands troubled past have urged solidarity as they prepare for a march for truth. The second Time for Truth march will take place in Belfast next month. It follows an event last year at which an estimated 7,000 people turned out to support three demands for truth about the past. Since then the campaign has collected thousands of signatures on a petition in support. Expand Close The first Time for Truth march in February 2018 (Brian Lawless/PA) PA Archive/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp The first Time for Truth march in February 2018 (Brian Lawless/PA) Organiser Ciaran McAirt said the march is a response to what he termed the UK Governments continued failure to deal with the legacy of the past. The three demands of the Time for Truth campaign are the implementation of legacy mechanism agreed at Stormont House in 2014, funding to clear the backlog of legacy inquests, and the funding of the Police Ombudsmans Office to complete outstanding legacy investigations. Mr McAirt and a number of families came together at Culterlann cultural centre on the Falls Road in west Belfast on Thursday to urge solidarity, issuing a plea to walk with us on Sunday. He said some of the families have been waiting for more than 50 years to find out the truth about what happened to their loved ones. Expand Close Ciaran McAirt (centre) from the Time for Truth campaign announces second march to demand funding to deal with the past. (Rebecca Black/PA) / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Ciaran McAirt (centre) from the Time for Truth campaign announces second march to demand funding to deal with the past. (Rebecca Black/PA) Mr McAirt is the grandson of Kathleen Irvine, one of 15 people killed in the UVFs bombing of McGurks bar in 1971. He told the launch of the second march that younger generations will carry on the quest for truth. We believe the British Governments strategy here is fairly stark, its deny, delay and death, whereby they are hoping that family members such as ourselves will go to our graves and our children and grandchildren will not have the same fire in their belly for dealing with this and the campaigns will go away, he said. We are not going to stand for it, this strategy has done nothing other than re-traumatise victims and survivors and has introduced the unfinished business of legacy to future generations of family members who are intent on obtaining truth and justice just as we are. He concluded by saying: Will you walk with us on Sunday June 9? Those in attendance included Harry Gargan, whose sister Margaret died at the age of 13 after being struck by a soldiers bullet in west Belfast in 1972. Expand Close Harry Gargan was 12 when his 13-year-old sister Margaret died after being shot by a soldier in west Belfast in 1972. (Rebecca Black/PA) / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Harry Gargan was 12 when his 13-year-old sister Margaret died after being shot by a soldier in west Belfast in 1972. (Rebecca Black/PA) Margaret was 13 when she was killed, her and me were in a community centre with my father, my father asked her to go round and check on the other kids in the house, and thats when she was shot dead by the Army, he said. The next time I saw Margaret she was lying on a sheet on corrugated metal at a neighbours house with a bullet wound to her head. We were very close, but Margaret also had a twin sister Bernadette, and besides my mother she took it worse. My mother suffered from Margarets death, she died at 57 from a heart attack. My family want another inquest because I can still remember, even though I was only 12, coming back from the inquest where someone from the Ministry of Defence read a statement that they identified a 13-year-old girl as an 18-year-old gunman. t was like she died again, they could never get over that. My mother was never the same. But after all these years I think that now it is starting to move a bit, and when you are on a march for truth, you know you are not alone. Four males have been arrested by detectives investigating the death of Lyra McKee. The journalist was shot while watching disturbances in Londonderry last month. Dissident republican group the New IRA said its members carried out the killing. Detectives from the PSNIs Major Investigation Team investigating the murder of Lyra Mckee following violent disorder in Creggan in Derry/Londonderry on 18th April have arrested four people under Terrorism legislation. For more info see link below -https://t.co/8Sw3xmYwRu Police Derry City and Strabane (@PSNIDCSDistrict) May 9, 2019 On Thursday morning, the Police Service of Northern Ireland said four people have been arrested as part of their murder investigation. The four males, aged 15, 18, 38 and 51, were arrested in Derry under terrorism legislation. They have been taken to the serious crime suite in Musgrave Station, Belfast where they are currently being questioned by detectives. Detective Superintendent Jason Murphy said the arrests came after searches at four houses. As part of this mornings operation detectives carried out searches at four houses in the city and arrested four people in connection with the violence which was orchestrated on the streets of Creggan on the evening of Lyra McKees murder, he said. They are currently in custody where they are being questioned. I want to thank the public for the widespread support we have received to date, including more than 140 people who have provided images, footage and other details via our dedicated major incident public portal. I still want to hear from anyone who can tell us anything they know. I would urge anyone who has any information to contact my team of detectives on 101. Alternatively, if you would prefer to provide information without giving your details, you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers and speak to them anonymously on 0800 555 111. People can also upload any footage that they have to the major incident public portal via the following link: https://mipp.police.uk/operation/PSNI19O09-PO1. The funeral of former Alliance Party deputy leader Seamus Close has taken place in Lisburn. Mr Close, who had been an MLA in Lagan Valley for nine years, died on Tuesday. He had been suffering from cancer. His funeral took place at St Patrick's Church in Lisburn and he was buried at Holy Trinity Cemetery. Mr Close began his political career in his early 30s by standing for Alliance in the second Fermanagh and South Tyrone by-election in August 1981. Soon afterwards his political base moved to the then new Lagan Valley constituency and he became Alliance chairman between 1981-82, and then deputy leader for a decade from 1991. Expand Close Seamus Close / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Seamus Close He was Mayor of Lisburn from 1993-94. In June 2001 he resigned as deputy leader of the party, citing difference with the leadership of Sean Neeson. He retired from politics in 2006. Alliance leader Naomi Long described him as "larger than life and full of fun" after his death. He is survived by his wife Deirdre and children Christopher, Brian, Stephen and Natasha. The Historical Institutional Abuse (HIA) Inquiry concluded there should be compensation ranging from 7,500 to 100,000. Northern Ireland Secretary of State Karen Bradley is to act to release compensation for survivors of historical institutional abuse as "soon as possible". It comes after the head of the Northern Ireland Civil Service, David Sterling, who is in effect running Northern Ireland in the ongoing absence of government asked Mrs Bradley to progress the necessary legislative reform through Westminster after completing a consultation process. UUP MLA and former victims commissioner Mike Nesbitt welcomed the move. "There has been enough can kicking over this, the Secretary of State needs to get on with it," he said. "Victims and survivors waited a very long time for recognition of the abuse they suffered, it is totally abhorrent they are now being forced to wait to see redress." In response to Mr Sterling's request a spokesman for the Northern Ireland Office said Karen Bradley was determined to see the recommendations implemented as soon as possible. "She will set out next steps shortly," he added. In January 2017 - just after the collapse of the Stormont - an inquiry led by Sir Anthony Hart found widespread and systemic abuse in childrens homes across Northern Ireland. He recommended a tax-free lump sum payment for all survivors ranging from 7,500 to 100,000. He also recommended a public apology should be made. The Historical Institutional Abuse Inquiry studied allegations of abuse in 22 homes and other residential institutions between 1922 and 1995. These were facilities run by the state, local authorities, the Catholic Church, the Church of Ireland and the childrens charity Barnardos. The largest number of complaints related to four Catholic-run homes. Sir Anthony's recommendations were stymied by the absence of devolved government with successive secretaries of state resisting calls to step in saying it was a matter for the Executive. There has been enough can kicking. Mike Nesbitt Those calls have intensified particularly as some of those victims concerned have passed away following the report's publication. A legal action last month found the ongoing failure to provide the compensation was not unlawful. In November last year, the Executive Office opened a consultation process on the draft legislation needed in order to implement the recommendations of the Hart report. A spokesperson for The Executive Office added: The Department can confirm that David Sterling wrote to the Secretary of State on May 2 following the completion of the analysis of the 562 responses to the HIA consultation. He has formally asked the Secretary of State to progress the legislative reform through Parliament. The report on consultation responses will be published on the TEO website on Monday, May 13. 85 deals with a total value of $1.42 billion were announced in Q1, 2019, marking the third-straight quarter to deliver more than $1 billion in funding. Deal count increased by 35% over Q4, 2018, although total funding decreased by 11%. Some 54% of deals were outside the US, marking a continuing trend. Deal count in the UK increased by 50%, and in the US by 44%. However, deal count in China fell by 38% this quarter. Two-thirds of investments were in Seed and Series A rounds, but Q1, 2019 recorded the highest-ever numbers of Series B and C investment rounds, at 12 and 6 respectively (up from 9 and 3 last quarter), as more nascent InsurTechs reach adolescence. At 56, the latest quarter saw the greatest number of P&C transactions since this publication began, up 37% from Q4, 2018. The latest Briefing focuses on pricing and underwriting, and includes case studies of the InsurTechs HazardHub, which provides property-level geographic risk data sets for hazards in the US; Concirrus, which deploys AI and machine learning to process and analyse data to understand underlying risk behaviours; and Root, an app-based US motor insurer using machine learning and telematics to price risks based primarily on driving behaviour. The Briefing also includes a fireside chat with Barry Swartzberg, founder of Discovery, an InsurTech which rewards insureds wellness behaviours; an examination of the most recent fundraising by Pie Insurance, a workers compensation InsurTech that just raised $45 million; and a description of Radar Live, Willis Towers Watsons proprietary real-time pricing system. Neil Chapman, Global Product Leader for Pricing, Product, Claims and Underwriting, Insurance Consulting and Technology, Willis Towers Watson, says: Agile pricing systems inherently recognize that flexibility is needed to meet the unknown future. Adopting a more agile approach requires companies to put control of pricing and price changes back into the hands of underwriting teams. The emphasis should be on their ability to change prices and rate algorithms frequently and easily, allowing companies to make rapid adjustments in an ever-moving market. Dr Andrew Johnston, Global Head of InsurTech at Willis Re, says: The sheer volume of hopeful InsurTech companies and hype is becoming increasingly difficult to rationalize, and one could argue that much of the space is akin to the fable of the emperors new clothes. We are seeing, however, that a number of InsurTechs are already adding some genuine value to our industry. We remain pragmatic about where in the value chain we believe this can be achieved. Our quarterly InsurTech reports for 2019 will focus on the four major functional areas of insurance, exploring the activities required to make each work, and how technology could be applied to improve those processes. We continue to believe that success for any InsurTech must follow that bottom-up approach, rather than targeting reinvention from the top down. View the full report Harry and Meghan aren't the only couple who are celebrating the birth of a baby Archie. This bouncing baby boy was born to another Megan and her husband Jake Stacey in Northern Ireland on Saturday morning - and like the royal couple, their son's name was also kept under wraps. "No one knew what Archie's name would be, and somehow, we managed not to let it slip at all since we found out we were having a son," says 18-year-old Megan. Naturally, the first time mum said that they are thrilled to be parents. Just like the Sussexes, who revealed their son's name yesterday, Holywood couple Megan and Jake got married last year. Weighing in at an above average 8lb, Archie Sydney Albert Stacey was born at the Ulster Hospital, Dundonald at 6.47am on May 4. "We both loved the name Archie so we decided to have that as his first name and the names of his great grandfathers as our son's middle names," said beaming father Jake. "Being a dad is absolutely brilliant and so far, Archie is such a laid back and chilled baby - he's easily settled and he's sleeping lots." Just like Megan and Jake's son, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex have said their Archie has been a "dream". Presenting Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor to the world's media, Meghan said: "He has the sweetest temperament, he's really calm. He's been the dream." As fellow first time parents, Megan and Jake had some advice for the royal couple and the seventh in line to the throne. "Try not to get too stressed, take it as it comes, let Archie develop his own little personality and above all, do what feels right for you and your son," the happy couple said. Detectives investigating the murder of Lyra McKee in Londonderry have arrested four people, including a 15-year-old boy, under terrorism legislation. Aged 15, 18, 38 and 51, the four males were arrested in the city on Wednesday morning in connection with the violence in the Creggan area on April 18. They have been taken to the Serious Crime Suite in Musgrave Station, Belfast where they are currently being questioned by detectives. The 29-year-old journalist was shot dead by a suspected New IRA gunman when disturbances broke out after PSNI officers carried out a number of searches in the Creggan estate. Expand Close Lyra McKee Photopress Belfast / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Lyra McKee Detective Superintendent Jason Murphy, said: As part of this mornings operation detectives carried out searches at four houses in the city and arrested four people in connection with the violence which was orchestrated on the streets of Creggan on the evening of Lyra McKees murder. They are currently in custody where they are being questioned. I want to thank the public for the widespread support we have received to date, including more than 140 people who have provided images, footage and other details via our dedicated Major Incident Public Portal. "I still want to hear from anyone who can tell us anything they know. I would urge anyone who has any information to contact my team of detectives on 101. Alternatively, if you would prefer to provide information without giving your details, you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers and speak to them anonymously on 0800 555 111. A man and a woman have escaped injured after shots were fired at a house in Craigavon. The incident happened in the Parkmore area of the town at around 1.45am on Thursday. It is understood one bullet struck a window pane of the house and a further two struck a car parked outside. No one was injured. Two people, a woman and a man, were inside the house at the time. DUP MLA Jonathan Buckley said: This is an irresponsible act, carried out with complete disregard for life or the welfare of the local community. "It beggars belief that so shortly after the death of Lyra McKee, caused by the careless firing of rounds in a crowd, that we have someone firing shots towards a house and a car in a residential area in broad daylight. "I would say very clearly to those responsible that regardless which banner they claim to act under, what cause they claim or who they were targeting there is no justification for this action. The people of Craigavon do not want guns on the streets. "I would appeal to anyone with information on the shooting to contact the PSNI, before someone loses their life. Chief Inspector Jon Burrows described the incident as despicable. He said: Did you see any suspicious persons or vehicles in the vicinity of Parkmore in the early hours of this morning? Do you have any information that could assist detectives with their enquiries? "If so, please contact detectives at Lurgan on the non-emergency number 101, quoting reference 64 09/05/19. "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. A retired Free Presbyterian minister has said he fully endorses a letter from a DUP councillor saying the Rev Ian Paisley would be "turning in his grave" at the party's decision to select an openly gay woman as a council candidate. Rev David McIlveen said it reflected the "very strong biblical position many of us share on gay marriage". Councillor John Finlay wrote to party officers expressing his "deep concern" at the decision to select Alison Bennington, who won a seat on Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council last week. The Ballymoney councillor said he was "very upset" at the way in which Ms Bennington was selected, as many within the party were "totally unaware" of the decision until it was announced at the launch of the DUP's local government manifesto. Mr McIlveen told the Belfast Telegraph: "It's a very personal matter between councillor Finlay and the DUP, but I fully endorse everything he has written. "His letter reflects the very strong biblical position many of us share on gay marriage." Mr McIlveen previously said he would not vote DUP after the party selected Ms Bennington. "I have nothing against the individual councillor. I'm sure she is a very capable person, but I couldn't endorse a party which advocates something so different to what I believe," he said. Councillor Finlay's letter to DUP officers - published online by journalist Patricia Devlin - was written before the council election. It said: "The candidate in question, Ms Alison Bennington, is openly gay. "She has, apparently, previously indicated that she is in favour of same-sex marriage through a post on her Facebook page. "This sends out, at best, confusing signals to our support base, which has consistently welcomed our strong stand on LGBT issues. Indeed, the DUP is different from all other political parties, apart from the much smaller TUV, in its adherence to family values. "That has drawn support from across the community divide, but that support is clearly now being placed in jeopardy by the foolish decision in selecting Alison Bennington." Mr Finlay asked party officers if Ms Bennington now agreed with DUP policy opposing same-sex marriage. He added: "It seems clear to me that we will lose votes on May 2 as a result of the Bennington decision. Our traditional support base cannot be taken for granted. "I can feel the palpable sense of anger on the doorsteps. "I am particularly disappointed that party officers who are committed Christians have either supported Ms Bennington's candidature or remained ominously silent. I think that some soul-searching is now required." Mr McIlveen also voiced support for criticism of the DUP by Free Presbyterian minister the Rev John Greer. In a sermon last month he said Christians were "being conditioned into thinking that things that were once reprobated are now acceptable... such as sodomy". He added: "Now we have the DUP putting up a candidate who is an out-and-out lesbian - that's what I mean." Mr McIlveen said: "I don't believe you'd find any Free Presbyterian Church member who would disagree with the sentiments he expressed." A DUP spokesman yesterday said the party's position on same-sex marriage remained unchanged. "We support the current definition of marriage," he added. Police at the scene of an ATM theft on Dromore Road in Irvinestown in March. Police have arrested two men in connection with ATM thefts in Northern Ireland. The men aged 29 and 31 were arrested by detectives investigating thefts in counties Tyrone and Fermanagh between December 2018 and March 2019. They were arrested in Omagh area and remain in police custody. Detective Chief Inspector Brian Foster added: Today we conducted five searches in the Omagh area in relation to the theft of ATM machines. "During the operation we recovered a digger worth 60,000 which was stolen in Dungannon area last Friday and we arrested two men, aged 29 and 31, on suspicion of theft of ATMs and machinery as well as other related offences." Fifteen cash machines have been stolen in separate incidents across Northern Ireland in 2019. Two men have appeared in court in connection with incidents in Co Antrim. New Defence Secretary Penny Mordaunt has said it is a personal priority for her to ensure that service personnel are not unfairly pursued in relation to allegations of historical misbehaviour. Ms Mordaunts promise came after Conservative MP Johnny Mercer told Theresa May he will no longer support the Government in the Commons unless the historical prosecution of ex-servicemen and women ends. Read More In a letter to the Prime Minister, the former Army officer said he found the repeated investigations into allegations, some dating back decades, personally offensive. I have written to the Prime Minister. pic.twitter.com/H3lJKI6oA5 Johnny Mercer (@JohnnyMercerUK) May 8, 2019 He said he was not prepared to vote for Government legislation except on Brexit until it took clear and concrete steps to end the abhorrent process. As you know, the historical prosecution of our servicemen and women is a matter that is personally offensive to me. Many are my friends, and I am from their tribe, he wrote. These repeated investigations with no new evidence, the macabre spectacle of elderly veterans being dragged back to Northern Ireland to face those who seek to re-fight that conflict through other means, without any protection from the government who sent them almost 50 years ago, is too much. I will not be voting for any of the Governments legislative actions outside of Brexit until legislation is brought forward to protect veterans from being repeatedly prosecuted for historical allegations. This is a personal priority for mePenny Mordaunt, Defence Secretary In a statement released shortly afterwards, Ms Mordaunt said: This has dragged on for far too long and it is time for action. We owe it to those who take the greatest risk in the service of their nation. We will always hold our armed forces and the chain of command to account but I want to ensure our service personnel are not going to be victims of unfounded allegations, as we saw in the case of IHAT (Iraq Historical Allegations Team) or pursued unfairly for events that took place decades ago. This is a personal priority for me. Mr Mercer has campaigned against the pursuit of legacy cases from the conflicts in Northern Ireland, Afghanistan and Iraq since he entered Parliament in 2015. Expand Close Plymouth MP Johnny Mercer said he found investigations into elderly veterans offensive (Stefan Rousseau/PA) PA Archive/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Plymouth MP Johnny Mercer said he found investigations into elderly veterans offensive (Stefan Rousseau/PA) His intervention will be seen in Westminster as further evidence of the Prime Ministers crumbling authority. He recently accused the Tory whips office of contacting former Army comrades in an attempt to dig up dirt on him. He wrote in his letter: It has not been an easy decision to make. But this incident with your chief whip has forced my hand. It appears that my values and ethos may be slowly, but very firmly, separating from a party I joined in 2015. Responding to Mr Mercers letter, the Prime Ministers official spokesman said: We owe a debt of gratitude to the heroism and bravery of our armed forces. The issue of prosecutions of veterans is one we take extremely seriously and the Prime Minister is fully aware of the strength of feeling on this, both in Parliament and among the public. In relation to Northern Ireland prosecutions, we have been clear the system to investigate the past needs to change to provide better outcomes for victims and survivors of the Troubles and to ensure members of our armed forces are not disproportionately affected. This is why we have consulted widely on the system. There are a very large number of responses to that consultation and we will be responding to those in due course. The Education Authority is seeking to close the Lurgan campus of Craigavon Senior High School (CSHS) next year, despite objections from parents. Some 1,150 of the 1,330 respondents to a consultation objected to the plan, the BBC reports. The school has two campuses, one in Lurgan and one in Portadown. The EA's plan would mean all of the school's 620 pupils would attend the Portadown Campus alone from September 2020. The authority is planning to seek funding for a new CSHS building on a single site over the next five to ten years- but this would depend on approval and funding from the Department of Education. The EA has previously warned there are security and health and safety issues for pupils and staff at the Lurgan campus. It also said the split site was making the school go over budget by around 500,000 a year and that a single site would give pupils better educational and extra-curricular opportunities. However, the Education Equality for Lurgan group, which represents parents of pupils, has put forward an alternative plan for Lurgan Junior High School to change from a school for 11 to 14-year-olds to one for 11 to 16-year-olds. A statement from the group backing a "Lurgan school for Lurgan children" was signed by 807 people. Some 252 of 327 parents of pupils also objected to the EA's plan for the school to be on a single site. However, 50 of 64 teachers at the school supported the EA's proposals. The final decision, which is expected by October 2019, will be made by the permanent secretary at the Department of Education. Plans for a single transfer test in Northern Ireland have received "overwhelming support", an exams body has claimed. Two different assessments currently operate here, but a proposal for a unified test was put to consultation in June last year. The PPTC, which operates the GL assessment widely used in Catholic grammar schools, said the response from its schools had been extremely positive. The Association of Quality Education (AQE) runs the other exam option, but a spokesperson said yesterday the organisation was not yet in a position to comment. However, sources at the AQE expressed surprise at the PPTC statement. The chairman of a parents' group that strongly backs the current AQE tests said the proposals were "indefensible" and would cause great concern. Both the PPTC and AQE had been asked to consult with the board of governors in each of the schools they represent. The PPTC said in a statement yesterday it was pleased to report "there was overwhelming support from its schools for progressing towards a single test" based on the proposed model. This would combine elements of AQE and PPTC tests with multiple choice and open response in English and mathematics. Pupils would sit two papers of one hour each on successive Saturdays, with a supplementary paper for those children missing one paper due to illness or other circumstances. A fee of 20 per pupil would be charged, with an exemption for children on free school meals. An Irish language version of the tests would also be provided. The DUP's education spokesman Peter Weir MLA welcomed the "positive tone" of the PPTC statement. "I know that PPTC and AQE have worked over a long period of time to bring this about and it is something that I have encouraged since being education minister," he said. "I am in support of academic selection, but whatever anyone's views on the subject, any realistic person realises it is here to stay and it clearly makes sense to try to avoid pupils being put through two systems, leading to five individual exams. "A sensible solution is in the interests of pupils, parents and schools. Experience tells us that there is still a long way to go, but this seems to be an important step forward in finally resolving this issue." Stephen Elliott is chairman of the Parental Alliance for Choice in Education, which strongly backs the AQE test. "This is indefensible and it should trouble parents," he said. "It's been a project for the Department of Education - they want to get headmasters to decide this. "It's remarkable that public sector employees, such as the heads of grammar schools, are interfering in private companies. I think it's impossible to combine these tests - they're trying to measure different things. They're trying to make the AQE test less reliable. AQE provides parents with past papers, but this would no longer be an option. "We've had 10 years of AQE tests that have essentially been flawless. If it's not broke, you don't need to fix it." In June last year concerns were also raised by the AQE's chief examiner at the time, Dr Hugh Morrison. Having designed the AQE test and worked free of charge for 10 years, he said he was "shocked" when the consultation was announced. He added at the time he had been given reassurances from both organisations he would be included in any dialogue. The sister of Lyra McKee has said there is a terrible irony in the journalists murder, as those responsible had robbed themselves of someone who would have reached out to them, told their story and tried to help them move forward. Nichola Corner Lyras second mummy told Channel 4 News she was still expecting her to burst through her door at any minute or to pick up the phone and hear her sisters voice at the other end. She said she lost part of her soul on the night Lyra was killed, but said her death must not be in vain. She deserves justice and those people need to really think about handing themselves in. They need to do the right thing, she said. Read More Lyra (29) was shot dead while observing rioting in Londonderry last month. The so-called New IRA claimed responsibility and offered its full and sincere apologies to family and friends of the reporter something described as mealy-mouthed by Lyras partner Sara Canning. Her death has prompted calls for Northern Irelands political leaders to come together and find a way to restore the power sharing institutions. There is a terrible irony in our Lyras murder, because she would have understood these people or tried to, and she would have tried to help them, said Ms Corner. I suppose they robbed themselves of one person who would have wanted to hear their story and would want to help them move forward. Ms Corner said her sister called her on the day of her killing, just as she would have done on any other day. Expand Close Nichola Corner. Pic Channel 4 News / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Nichola Corner. Pic Channel 4 News But after Lyra told her she loved her, her sister asked if she was all right because something just didnt seem right. I kind of guess, even though I know I spoke to her after that again, in a way that was her souls way of saying goodbye, she said. Failure isnt an option... Lyra didnt see labels. Wearing a Failure isnt an option T-shirt in her interview, Ms Corner shared a journal entry from Lyra on the day of her death and how she had a plan of action up until April 17, 2020. Ms Corner delivered a powerful address at the funeral in St Annes Cathedral in Belfast in front of Prime Minister Theresa May, Taoiseach Leo Varadkar and Northern Irelands political leaders. She said there had to be change one piece at a time saying it was time to get to work. When I could feel myself faltering, I could just hear her say, Come on Nic you can do it. Do it for me. Do it for me. And when I looked down at her wee coffin, I just took a deep breath, focused myself again on the script, and just promised her that I will do my best. She urged leaders not to allow the journalists murder to be in vain, saying the past needed to be put to bed to allow for a future. Failure isnt an option. We have to make Lyras legacy not just about the political landscape but about changing society, she said. Lyra didnt see labels, she didnt see religion, she didnt see what political party you were part of, because she had friends in them all. Earlier this week, Ms Canning revealed how she had challenged the Prime Minister to legalise same-sex marriage at Westminster. The issue is one of the main bones of contention between the DUP and Sinn Fein preventing the restoration of Stormont, along with an Irish language act. Same sex marriage and an Irish language act are important, Ms Canning had said. They are important dont get me wrong but whats more important is having a working government who are doing whats right for the people of Northern Ireland. Speaking after Ms Corners interview, DUP MLA Christopher Stalford said there was hope of a breakthrough in the current talks process in the wake of Lyras death. He said the numbers existed in Stormont to pass same-sex marriage legislation, and accept that those opposed to it, including himself, were in the minority in Northern Ireland. The South Belfast MLA said that had Stormont been up and running, same-sex marriage could have been in place up to 18 months ago. The irony is by keeping Stormont down some of those parties arguing for change are preventing that change happening. There are issues around culture and identity. Ultimately what I believe matters regardless as to if you are unionist or nationalist or neither are jobs, hospitals, schools, roads. And thats what people want to see us working together on. We have to work together to make Northern Ireland work. European election posters belonging to a Fianna Fail candidate have been spotted in Northern Ireland Cavan- Monaghan Fianna Fail TD Brendan Smith's team had put posters up in Fermanagh despite the politician running for election in the Midlands North-West region in the Republic in the upcoming European elections. The Leitrim Observer reports Brendan Smith Number 1 posters were erected across the border in Belcoo, Derrylin and Garrison last week but were quickly taken down when the mistake was noticed. His posters were noticed alongside Northern Ireland Local Election posters. A Fianna Fail spokesman told the Leitrim Observer: "Posters were removed when the matter was brought to our attention." In the UK, for example, the deficit of the funded public pension system is currently estimated to be $4 trillion and is expected to grow to reach a $33 trillion by 2050. For countries that have unfunded pay-as-you-go systems, such as France and Germany, the situation is also extremely worrying. What are the problems facing individual investors who are becoming increasingly responsible for their own saving and investment decisions? Looking at the second pillar, private pension funds have been particularly impacted by the shift in accounting standards towards the valuation of pension liabilities at market rates, instead of fixed discount rates, which have resulted in increased volatility for pension liabilities. This new constraint has been reinforced in parallel by stricter solvency requirements following the 2000-2003 pension fund crisis. The evolution of accounting and prudential regulations have subsequently led a large number of corporations to close their defined-benefit pension schemes to new members and increasingly to further accrual of benefits so as to reduce the impact of pension liability risk on their balance sheets and income statements. Overall, a massive shift from defined-benefit pension to defined-contribution pension schemes is taking place across the world, implying a transfer of retirement risks from corporations to individuals. What are the shortcomings of existing pensions products? In response to these concerns, a number of so-called retirement products have been proposed by insurance companies and asset management firms. Asset management products offer a wide range of investment options, but none of these options really address retirement needs because they neither allow investors to secure a given level of replacement income, nor explicitly intend to do so. This is also true for target date funds, even though they are often used as default options by individuals saving for retirement. In contrast, insurance products, such as annuities and variable annuities, can secure a fixed level of replacement income throughout retirement. However, this security comes at the cost of a severe lack of flexibility, because annuitization is an almost irreversible decision, unless one is willing to bear the costs of high surrender charges, which can amount to several percentage points of the invested capital. This rigidity is a major shortcoming in the presence of life uncertainties such as marriage and children, changing jobs, health issues, changing locations to lower or higher cost cities or countries, decisions about retirement dates, etc. Why is the UK pensions regulator particularly concerned about the current situation? For all these reasons, and even though they offer the security that investment products lack, annuities are in low demand overall unless annuitisation is either heavily incentivised or simply mandatory, as was the case in the UK before the passing of the Pension Freedom Act in 2015. To sum up, individuals in the UK were constrained to use annuities before 2015, which offer security without flexibility, and they now massively choose to use investment products that provide flexibility but no security with respect to the level of future replacement income. This is a particularly strong concern for the UK regulator since the replacement income risk is now fully borne by retirees. What is the optimal balance between security and performance? Fortunately, existing financial engineering techniques can be used to design new forms of flexicure investment solutions that can offer individuals both security and flexibility when approaching retirement investment decisions, thus providing a way out of the impasse of a choice between annuities and target date funds. What type of new pensions products are needed and why is there increased interest in these from investment firms? Costly and quasi-irreversible annuity products are not needed to secure replacement income for a fixed period of time in retirement. To generate income for, say the first 20 years of retirement, a period which roughly corresponds to the life expectancy of a 65 US individual, one can design a dedicated cash-flow-matching portfolio made of liquid fixed-income securities, while protection against the risk of living longer than expected can be achieved by purchasing a deferred late life annuity. On the other hand, and precisely because of this security, investing in this retirement bond portfolio cannot generate upside in terms of replacement income. To increase the achievable level of replacement income without relying only on additional contributions, investor may also invest in stocks and other asset classes that are expected to outperform the retirement bond in the long run. Investment retirement solutions mixing stocks and retirement bond portfolios can be used to help individuals and households secure minimum levels of replacement income while generating upside exposure through liquid and reversible investment products. Let us note that the pension crisis will not be solved by financial engineering only. Part of the solution lies in the hands of individuals themselves, who need to start contributing earlier so as to more efficiently complement the benefits expected from the first two pillars of pension systems. However, the investment industry does face an ever greater responsibility to provide suitable retirement solutions. Voters at the European elections should ignore the Liberal Democrats and Change UK and back the the Green Party to be tough on Brexit and the causes of Brexit, according to the partys co-leader. Speaking at the Greens European election campaign launch in Islington, north London, on Wednesday, Jonathan Bartley said: Every MEP elected from our brilliant team of candidates will be a commanding voice calling for what this country needs now: a peoples vote. Politics is paralysed, people are ready for something new. We need to go back to the people to get politics moving again. Polls are all over the place at the moment. Some put us in the lead, some dont. But if you take the aggregate polls, were right up there. At the last election, we got more seats than the Lib DemsJonathan Bartley Mr Bartley, who shares the leadership of the Greens with Sian Berry, said that while two other parties were also campaigning for a second referendum, the vote was unlikely to split because of the proportional representation electoral system used at the European elections. There are three Remain parties, there are four Leave parties. Thats the way this election is broken down, he said. The European elections are run under PR. The danger of splitting the vote is significantly less in these elections than it would be under a first-past-the-post Westminster election. Polls are all over the place at the moment. Some put us in the lead, some dont. But if you take the aggregate polls, were right up there. At the last election, we got more seats than the Lib Dems. The Green Party is campaigning on a pro-EU, anti-climate change ticket for the election on May 23. It hopes to capitalise on its success in last weeks local elections when Greens gained 185 council seats by improving on its current total of three MEPs secured in 2014. Suggesting that the UK could remain in the EU well into the 2020s, the partys only sitting Westminster MP Caroline Lucas told the Press Association: People should not be viewing this as a proxy referendum. Its actually a serious election where you could be electing MEPs that could be representing you for five years. .@sianberry and @jon_bartley launching our vision for Europe. If you want a strong European voice that you can trust, then give your vote to @TheGreenParty #VoteGreen2019 pic.twitter.com/r0umld4H36 Amelia Womack | Green Party Deputy Leader (@Amelia_Womack) May 8, 2019 Thats why it is important to look at the position of parties on Brexit, and we have been clear we want to stop Brexit through a Peoples Vote. Ms Lucas added that the Extinction Rebellion protests that blocked roads in London last month have boosted support for the Greens. More than 1,500 people joined the party over the bank holiday weekend. She said many had never been on a demonstration before, much less been arrested. So many stories about what Extinction Rebellion is about really made it clear that the people that were on the streets were not some kind of stereotypical swampy characters. A Garda who found a murdered teenager's body at first thought he had found either a "mannequin or something terrible", a trial in Dublin has heard. Ana Kriegel's naked body was found in a room in a derelict house in Lucan with blue tape around her neck. Three of her fingers were inside the ligature or "noose", as if she was "pulling it away", Sergeant Declan Birchall said. The jury was shown a blood-stained concrete block and a blood-stained length of timber, which gardai said were recovered from the room where Ana's body was found. They were also shown a 3D reconstruction of the crime scene. Two youths, aged 13 at the time, have pleaded not guilty to the murder of Ana (14) at Glenwood House, Laraghcon, Clonee Road in Lucan, outside Dublin, on May 14 last year. One of the boys, Boy A, has also denied a charge of aggravated sexual assault. In his evidence, Sergeant Declan Birchall said he was in charge of the Divisional Search Team on May 17, 2018 and had been tasked to search the park for any signs of Ana, who was missing. Sgt Birchall said the team of four had arranged to meet at the entrance to the park at noon. There were a number of derelict buildings in the area, and it was planned to search them. Sgt Birchall said he and his team were searching Glenwood House and its outbuildings when one of his colleagues said he might have found something in the main house. Sgt Birchall said he went into Glenwood House through the back door and into a room at the front of the house. Asked by prosecutor Brendan Grehan SC what he saw, Sgt Birchall said he saw the "body of a female lying on the floor". She was naked except for a pair of black socks, the court heard. Sgt Birchall said he could not see Ana's face and he believed there was something across her face. When he got closer he realised her hair was covering her face "as if she was thrashing her hair and it covered her face", he said. Sgt Birchall also noted blood at Ana's nose and her head was tilted back. There was a ligature or "noose" around her neck and she had three fingers inside it, as if she was "pulling it away". He checked for signs of life but there were none. Sgt Birchall said that he and his team then left the building to allow Garda technical experts to photograph the scene. In his evidence, garda Sean White said he was also part of the Divisional Search Team searching for Ana. Garda White said that he had entered Glenwood House in Lucan through the back door. He went through a small porch and into the back kitchen. Garda White said he then turned left into a "dark room". He said he "initially thought the body was a mannequin". The body was naked and the feet were pointing towards him. He called out and there was no response. Garda White said he took in his surroundings and the smell of dried blood, and he realised what he had found. He called out to Sgt Birchall and the area was later declared a crime scene. The trial continues. An Oireachtas Committee is to seek unredacted copies of warnings from a top civil servant to Government over the cost of the National Broadband Plan (Rui Vieira/PA) An Oireachtas committee is to seek an unredacted copy of warnings from a top civil servant to Government over the cost of the National Broadband Plan (NBP). The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) is to write to Robert Watt, the Secretary General of the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform, after he warned that the plan poses great financial risk. In a letter to Government officials, Mr Watt outlined his concerns over the project and called for the procurement process to be cancelled. Documentation released earlier this week revealed that Mr Watt advised against the Government appointing the preferred bidder on grounds of affordability, risk and value for money. The committee was to publish a report on broadband next week but it has been delayed after the warnings emerged. The announcement confirms further delays in broadband delivery on top of the many delays already experienced.Timmy Dooley PAC chairman Sean Fleming said there is a very highly charged political debate between the Government and opposition parties. I felt it might be perceived as the (committee) wading into a current political controversy and I dont want the Public Accounts Committee accused of that, Mr Fleming added. Meanwhile, Fianna Fail communications spokesman Timmy Dooley called for the Government to reveal the financial contribution from the Granahan McCourt consortium, which is behind the project. The rollout of the scheme, which will bring fibre broadband to 1.1 million people across the country, will begin at the end of the year. It is expected to take seven years to complete. Speaking during leaders questions, Mr Dooley said: At this stage Tanaiste you have realised that this thing wont just wash with those people who have waited patiently for broadband as promised on numerous occasions. The announcement confirms further delays in broadband delivery on top of the many delays already experienced. Simon Coveney said the Government made the announcement as soon as we could stand over it. He said: Its about future-proofing rural Ireland for the technology change that we know is happening. Its about ensuring there is not a digital divide across this country on the basis of where you live or what your address is. Of course opposition parties need to test and hold us to account and that is why we have released all of the information in relation to the debate that took place within government and government departments before this decision was made. The Government is not in a position to be able to give a figure on what the bidder is actually putting in in terms of equity themselves at this time, because there is still a negotiation to conclude, but that figure will be published in time and that figure will be proportionate to the commercial return that is available to the bidder. Mr Dooley said: Considering that the tendering process is over there is absolutely no reason why you cant publish that number. Its clear there is a rather small contribution being made by Granahan McCourt in relation to the return. Mr Coveney added that the Government will be contributing up to half of the cost of the delivery of the infrastructure. Sinn Fein TD Pearse Doherty claimed that the NBP could amount to a red herring. This is a process that started in 2012. Eight years on we dont have yard of fibre laid under this plan, he added. Under your new plan many in rural Ireland will be lucky to have high broadband speed in the the later stage of the next decade. This is not good enough. The documents published yesterday highlight serious significant flaws that no one in government has addressed. The documents we have seen raise questions about the capacity of the bidder to deliver the project. During statements on the matter in the Dail on Thursday afternoon, Communications Minister Richard Bruton said 1.1 million people would be left behind if the Government had not made the decision to go ahead with the plan. Sinn Feins Brian Stanley said the Government was acting in a completely reckless way this is nothing short of being fiscally irresponsible. Its essential that the state retain control of this large project and vital infrastructure, he said. This isnt any tiddlywinks project. This is a major project. Labours Jan OSullivan said equality of access to high-speed broadband across the country was essential but she said the party had a very different vision of how it could be achieved. This weeks announcements can only be understood as being political, she said. They were clearly designed to influence the local and European elections in two weeks. The Government is proposing to spend three billion euros of the peoples money on a private monopoly which will own the network forever. She added: In the current plan, it is possible that vulture funds could buy up the body to be called National Broadband Ireland to squeeze more money out of the quarter of our people who will be reliant on it. People Before Profit TD Richard Boyd Barrett called for the project to be halted. This Government is completely incapable of delivering major infrastructural projects of huge importance to the people of this country, our economy and society, he said. That is the inescapable conclusion one has to draw from the shambles that continues to unfold around rural broadband. He added: This process is fatally flawed. We should stop it now. Weve said it several times before and well say it again. Stop this process now if we had relied on this model to deliver rural electrification, we would still be operating by candlelight in this country. In court yesterday, Benjamin's parents Andrew and Miriam Gillick said they thought the final offer should be around 27.5m (stock photo) A nine-year-old boy left brain-damaged and disabled after a Dublin hospital's failure to diagnose an infection when he was a baby has settled his High Court action with a record damages payout of 25m (21.5m). It brings to 32.4m (27.8m) the total paid to Benjamin Gillick, who now lives with his family in London. He has cerebral palsy, is quadriplegic and cannot speak. It is the highest ever settlement in the Republic's history for a personal injuries claim. The 25m settlement was approved by the High Court in Dublin yesterday. Children's University Hospital, Temple Street, previously apologised in court "for the failings" that caused injuries to Benjamin. In court yesterday, Benjamin's parents Andrew and Miriam Gillick said they thought the final offer should be around 27.5m. Approving the settlement, Mr Justice Kevin Cross said he appreciated their concerns but had to act in the best interests of the boy. "I appreciate you are disappointed but I believe it is in Benjamin's best interests," the judge said, approving the 25m figure. The family claimed the hospital was negligent in the investigation, diagnosis, management treatment and care of a shunt infection Benjamin presented with on April 9, 2011. It was claimed that at no time was the possibility of a shunt infection considered, and gastroenteritis and a chest infection were suggested. Liability was admitted and the case was before the court for assessment of damages only. Concerns have been raised about the high cost of medicines (Julien Behal/PA) Fine Gael MEPs have defended their votes in Brussels after it was revealed pharmaceutical groups spend over 15 million euro a year on lobbying. In recent years the crisis in affordable medicines has spread to Europe, and it emerged in March that Ireland had already almost fully committed its 2019 budget for new drugs. A report published on Thursday by Corporate Europe Observatory, titled High Prices, Poor Access, claims that large pharmaceutical lobbies are blocking solutions to tackling high-priced medicines, the top 10 of which are spending over 15 million euro per year on lobbying in Brussels. The report reveals that the main lobby group, European Federation of Pharmaceutical Industries and Associations (EFPIA), sits on eight of the European Commissions advisory groups, had 112 top-level meetings with the Juncker Commission, and hold 60 access passes to the European Parliament. The report claims the group is doing its best to remove or weaken regulatory measures. The top 10 firms are spending over 15 million euro per year on lobbying in Brussels, and they're getting what they want.Lynn Boylan Authors of the report say drug companies promote the use of new drugs because they still hold patent protection. Existing patent laws mean that once a drug is approved by regulators it retains a competition-free environment for up to 20 years. The report states that large drug manufacturers continue to produce new, more expensive drugs, even if the new product is not an improvement in medical terms. Sinn Fein MEP Lynn Boylan says the report proves that lobbying is blocking solutions that make medicines more accessible. The top 10 firms are spending over 15 million euro per year on lobbying in Brussels, and theyre getting what they want, she said. The right to health care and medical treatment is recognised in the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights, yet the Commission is ripping that to shreds by allowing it be the puppet of Big Pharma, handing them millions in funding with no conditionality. The newly adopted Horizon Europe, the EUs 100 billion euro research fund, is a hand out to massive Pharma corporations to develop what is profitable to them, rather than developing affordable and necessary medicines. In the recent research programme vote, the four Fine Gael MEPs, Deirdre Clune, Mairead McGuinness, Brian Hayes and Sean Kelly, voted to delete the precautionary principle and insert whats called the innovation principle in its place. This new principle is an industry-created tool to undermine key policies and regulations protecting human health, meaning public money will be given to Big Pharma to develop profitable medicines. Uncritical europhiles need to wake up to the corporate capture of the EU and come to terms with how infested the institutions are with lobbying power. Access to medicines, including affordability, is quite literally a question of life or death and the EU isnt doing enough to ensure appropriate pricing. A Fine Gael spokesman defended The Horizon Europe project and the innovation principle for pharmaceuticals. The innovation principle ensures that whenever policy and legislation are developed, the impact on innovation is fully assessed, and the Fine Gael delegation believes this has a role to play in EU Better Regulation approach, alongside the precautionary principle, he said. The GUE (the Sinn Fein-affiliated group in Europe) tabled an amendment, deleting the reference to the innovation principle and replacing it with the precautionary principle. The Fine Gael delegation voted against this amendment as it was satisfied that the precautionary principle was included in a stronger way as one of the operational objectives. By investing in research and innovation, we are investing in Europes future. The case was adjourned for sentencing to November 8 (stock photo) The teenage son of Irish celebrity TV chef Rachel Allen has been remanded on bail for sentencing on drugs charges involving cannabis and cocaine, some of which was found at the world-renowned Ballymaloe Cookery School. Joshua Allen (19), the eldest son of Rachel and Isaac Allen, appeared before Judge Brian O'Callaghan at Cork Circuit Criminal Court on three charges. They involved possession of cocaine and possession of cannabis for sale or supply at Ballymaloe Cookery School in Cork on August 30, 2018. The most serious count involved the charge that Allen had cannabis worth more than 13,000 for sale or supply at the cookery school. A conviction could involve a sentence of 10 years. The final charge included possession of cannabis at Ballinamona, Shanagarry, Co Cork on September 5, 2018. Allen had signed pleas to six charges before the District Court but, because of duplication, this was reduced to three before the Circuit Criminal Court which covers all the matters involved. The teenager, who appeared in court yesterday wearing a dark suit and accompanied by a family member, did not speak beyond confirming his guilty pleas to the three charges. Defence counsel Siobhan Lankford applied for sentencing to be adjourned. The court was told the teen, who lives at the Shanagarry address, is currently receiving treatment. The case was adjourned for sentencing to November 8. Jeremy Corbyn has called on voters to abandon the labels of Leave and Remain to stop the Brexit debate becoming an endless loop. Launching Labours campaign for the European Parliament elections, Mr Corbyn also said the Government needed to move away from its red lines in cross-party talks on Brexit. Mr Corbyn said: Who wants to live in a country stuck in this endless loop? What we need is a bit of understanding. Some people seem to look at the issue the wrong way around. They tend to think the first question is Leave or Remain, as if either is an end in itself. I think theyre wrong. The first question is: what kind of society do we want to be? The Labour leader suggested the option of a second referendum could be a healing process. Whether you voted Leave or Remain, it's only Labour who can bring our country together. Vote Labour in the EU elections on 23 May. pic.twitter.com/YVjdfurWuY Jeremy Corbyn (@jeremycorbyn) May 9, 2019 Speaking in Chatham, Kent, he said: The view we put forward, the party conference put this forward, the national executive agreed this, that we should include the option of having a ballot on a public vote on the outcome of the talks and negotiations on what were putting forward. I would want that to be seen as a healing process, and bringing this whole process to a conclusion. Nothing is easy in this. But our essential message has to be to bring people together, and thats the basis on which weve approached both what weve done in Parliament and in the negotiation itself. Mr Corbyn said the Government had failed to make a big offer in the talks aimed at ending the Brexit deadlock. It's difficult negotiating with a disintegrating Government with Cabinet ministers jockeying for the successionJeremy Corbyn He said: So far in those talks, there has been no big offer, and the red lines remain. Its difficult negotiating with a disintegrating Government with Cabinet ministers jockeying for the succession, rather than working for an agreement. Its in the countrys interests to try to get this sorted one way or another. The talks that we have had with the Government have been difficult because the Government is in some degree of disarray itself. They are still ongoing. The Government has to move its red lines. Expand Close (PA Graphics) Press Association Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp (PA Graphics) In a swipe at Brexit Party leader Nigel Farage, Mr Corbyn said: Im appalled at the remarks made by Farage and many others that do create a degree of toxicity in our society. And we have to stand up against it. Mr Corbyn used the launch to promise to address the inequalities that helped fuel the 2016 Brexit vote, insisting the real divide in our country is not over Europe. The UK will take part in the May 23 Euro election because of Parliaments deadlock over a Brexit deal and the failure of Labour-Tory talks. Mr Corbyn pinned the blame on Theresa Mays Governments complete failure on Brexit. His attack comes after the Government and Labour agreed on Wednesday to resume cross-party talks next week. There is definitely significant work still to do if we are to find a unified way forwardSpokesman for Theresa May Downing Street said it followed a second day of extended discussions in Whitehall which demonstrates the seriousness with which both sides are approaching these talks. A No 10 spokesman said there would be more meetings of the working groups looking at specific issues as well as further exchanges of documents. Mrs Mays official spokesman told reporters on Thursday: The discussions have been serious across a number of different areas, but clearly there remain outstanding matters that need to be nailed down. There is definitely significant work still to do if we are to find a unified way forward. A Labour Party spokesman said the negotiating teams were working to establish scope for agreement and would meet again at the beginning of next week. Mr Corbyn said that while Labour will continue to work for its alternative Brexit plan, which would protect jobs and living standards, it would never accept the Governments bad deal or a disastrous no deal. So if we cant get a sensible deal, along the lines of our alternative plan, or a general election, Labour backs the option of a public vote. Joseph McCann has been charged with 12 offences including five rapes (Metropolitan Police/PA) Alleged serial rapist Joseph McCann is to be forced to appear in court after refusing to attend a hearing on Wednesday. Chief Magistrate Emma Arbuthnot authorised the use of force to bring him before her by videolink from Belmarsh prison. McCann, 34, was due to appear at Westminster Magistrates Court on Wednesday but refused to come up from the cells. Security was so tight six uniformed officers had been placed on guard outside the courtroom. McCann, from Aylesbury, in Buckinghamshire, has been charged with 12 offences, including five rapes. He was arrested near Congleton, in Cheshire, in the early hours of Monday, just over two weeks after he is alleged to have abducted a woman in her 20s in Watford in the early hours of Sunday April 21 before raping her in a residential property. He is charged with kidnap and rape over the alleged attack. McCann is further charged with two kidnappings, four counts of rape, one count of false imprisonment, two counts of causing a female to engage in sexual activity and one count of assaulting a female by penetration in London between April 24 and April 27. The charges relate to two women, who are in their 20s, who were separately snatched off the street in Chingford and Edgware, in London, before being raped in a car. An investigation by Scotland Yards Homicide and Major Crime Command is continuing and the Metropolitan Police said a file remains with the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) in relation to further alleged offences. Arlene Fosters DUP currently keeps Theresa Mays Government in power at Westminster (Dominic Lipinski/PA) Theresa May had lunch at her country retreat Chequers with DUP leader Arlene Foster and the party's Westminster chief Nigel Dodds. It is understood that the private meeting involved the drive to get the Prime Minister's EU Withdrawal Agreement Bill through Parliament, as well as efforts to restore power-sharing institutions in Northern Ireland. The DUP delegation told Mrs May that they wanted to see the Northern Ireland Assembly restored and the EU referendum result delivered in a way which strengthens the Union. The DUP and Tories have a confidence and supply agreement which allows Theresa May to operate a minority agreement. They deal is due to be renegotiated next month. In recent months there has been a fracturing of relations between the two parties as the Prime Minister attempted to get her Brexit deal through parliament without the support of the DUP. The party is opposed to the so-called backstop - the insurance policy to prevent a hard border in Ireland should there be no agreement reached on the future trading arrangements. The meeting also comes as a renewed bid to restore Stormont begun again this week. Downing Street described the event as a "private political meeting" which had been scheduled for some time. A Number 10 spokeswoman declined to reveal the subjects discussed. Glenda Bailey will be made a dame at an investiture ceremony at Buckingham Palace (Anthony Devlin/PA) Fashion magazine editor Glenda Bailey will be among those collecting honours in an investiture ceremony at Buckingham Palace on Thursday. The Harpers Bazaar editor-in-chief, who was presented an OBE in 2008, will be made a dame for services to UK prosperity, charity, fashion and journalism. The award will be presented by the Duke of Cambridge. Ms Bailey was appointed Harpers Bazaar editor in 2001 after a spell with the US edition of monthly magazine Marie Claire, which became the first in the United States to be given the Amnesty award for International Journalism. Meanwhile, musician Nitin Sawhney and artist Yinka Shonibare are among those to be awarded a CBE. Mr Sawhney has performed with orchestras and has written for Sir Paul McCartney, Sting, Ellie Goulding and The London Symphony Orchestra during his career, receiving 17 major international awards. He has also scored a range of films and television shows, including Andy Serkis Mowgli: Legend of the Jungle for Netflix and an advert for Nike. He will be honoured for services to music. Mr Shonibare, who was honoured for services to art, has explored themes of race and class through his paintings and sculptures. In 2012, the Royal Opera House commissioned his Globe Head Ballerina to be displayed. His work has also featured in the Tate Collection, and Victoria and Albert Museum in London; National Museum of African Art, Smithsonian Institute, Washington, and the Museum of Modern Art in New York. Rabbi Warren Elf, who spoke during a memorial service a year after the Manchester arena terror attack in May 2017, will collect an MBE. The rabbi, formerly of the Manchester Reform Synagogue, has also served as the community development officer of the Faith Network for the city. He was granted the award for services to the community in Manchester. Among those to be given an MBE includes volunteer Jonathan Hart for services to Mountain Rescue in Scotland and to charity after spending more than 20 years as a volunteer with Lochaber Mountain Rescue. He has travelled the world as a specialist in avalanche rescue and technical rope rescue techniques. Liberal Democrats have released a manifesto for the upcoming European elections under the uncompromising title Bollocks to Brexit. Leader Sir Vince Cable said his party were going into the May 23 poll as the strongest Remain voice, with an unambiguous and honest message of halting the UKs withdrawal from the European Union. Campaigners who find the Anglo-Saxon terminology on the manifesto cover a little too earthy will be able to use an alternative edition with the more polite message Stop Brexit. Sir Vince said that the manifesto amounted to a blueprint for what the UK could achieve if Brexit was stopped. Expand Close The Liberal Democrat manifesto carries an uncompromising message (Andrew Woodcock/PA) / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp The Liberal Democrat manifesto carries an uncompromising message (Andrew Woodcock/PA) It includes calls for: Europe to adopt a net zero greenhouse gas emissions target by 2050; An emergency 7.5 billion support fund for those affected by Brexit uncertainty; The extensions of rights for EU citizens in the UK including the ability to stand and vote in elections. Speaking ahead of the official launch of the document, Sir Vince said: Brexit is a failed project, which must now be stopped so our country and the whole of Europe can get on with dealing with the big challenges we face. The Conservatives have let their internal feud divide the country while Jeremy Corbyns Labour party has sat out the biggest issue facing our country in decades. Liberal Democrats are unambiguous and honest: we want to stop Brexit. Only as members of the EU can we take the big steps we need on climate change, protect consumers and build a strong economy. Our manifesto sets out a clear and positive vision for the UK within the EU, and we can achieve it by stopping Brexit. The Liberal Democrats, with over 100,000 members and 2,500 councillors across the country, are the strongest Remain voice going into the European Elections. Every Liberal Democrat vote is a vote to stop Brexit. Liberal Democrats are facing a battle for pro-Remain votes in England with the Greens and the new Change UK party set up by defectors from the Conservative and Labour parties, after proposals for a joint ticket came to nothing. In Scotland and Wales, the SNP and Plaid Cymru are also standing on pro-EU platforms. Theresa May has rebuffed demands to set out a timetable for her departure from No 10 amid growing pressure from Tory MPs to make way for a new leader. The chairman of the Conservative backbench 1922 Committee Sir Graham Brady, who met the Prime Minister privately on Tuesday, made clear she had not offered any further clarity about her future. He said she would meet the committees 18-strong executive next week amid grass roots fury over the partys worst local elections performance in 24 years. Expand Close Sir Graham Brady said the 1922 Committee executive will meet Theresa May next week to discuss her future (Victoria Jones/PA) PA Wire/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Sir Graham Brady said the 1922 Committee executive will meet Theresa May next week to discuss her future (Victoria Jones/PA) Sir Graham suggested she could make a final effort to get her Brexit deal through Parliament before European elections on May 23, when the party is expected to suffer even heavier losses. He said he expected ministers to bring forward the Withdrawal Agreement Bill required to ratify her deal in law in the near future. The executive is very keen to meet the Prime Minister and will have a full opportunity to discuss and to reach whatever conclusions it wishes to reach next week, Sir Graham said. Its my understanding its the Governments intention to bring a second reading of the Bill forward in the near future, certainly the intention is before the European election takes place. At Prime Ministers Questions earlier, Mr May faced a direct call from a Conservative MP to stand down. Isn't it time to step aside and let someone else lead our country, our party and the Brexit negotiations?Andrea Jenkyns MP Brexit-backing Andrea Jenkyns told Mrs May she had failed in EU withdrawal negotiations and forfeited the trust of the public. The public no longer trust her to run Brexit negotiations, she said. Isnt it time to step aside and let someone else lead our country, our party and the Brexit negotiations? Mrs May retorted: This is not an issue about me and its not an issue about her. If it were an issue about me and the way I vote, we would already have left the European Union. Downing Street made clear the Prime Minister was not ready to go beyond her earlier promise to the 1922 to quit as Tory leader when the first phase of Brexit negotiations dealing with the divorce terms is complete. The PM made a very generous and bold offer to the 1922 Committee a few weeks ago that she would see through phase one of the Brexit process and she would leave and open up for new leadership for phase two, a No 10 source said. Thats the timetable she is working towards. She wants to get Brexit done. With her effective deputy David Lidington suggesting he hoped a deal could be concluded by July, there is speculation she may seek to hang on until the annual party conference in the autumn. Nigel Evans, the executive secretary of the 1922, warned she would need to give MPs some greater certainty before then. August 1 is the next new date, he told the BBC. It could be kicked down the road even further. Thats not what we want. We want some clarity from the Prime Minister. Expand Close David Lidington, Mrs Mays de facto deputy, said talks with Labour have been difficult (Stefan Rousseau/PA) PA Wire/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp David Lidington, Mrs Mays de facto deputy, said talks with Labour have been difficult (Stefan Rousseau/PA) Meanwhile, Cabinet minister Andrea Leadsom said she is seriously considering standing for the Conservative leadership, which will be triggered when Mrs May stands down. Ms Leadsom, who stood for the leadership in 2016 but pulled out to give Mrs May a clear run at the job, told ITV1s Good Morning Britain: Ive supported her for the last three years to get Brexit over the line. She has said shes going so yes I am seriously considering standing. Meanwhile, talks between the Government and Labour on a compromise deal to end the deadlock are set to resume next week, following a second day of extended discussions in Whitehall. A No 10 spokesman said the latest meeting demonstrates the seriousness with which both sides are approaching these talks. The spokesman added: Over the coming days, there will be more meetings of the bilateral working groups and further exchanges of documents as we seek to nail down the details of what has been discussed. A Labour Party spokesman said: After the second day of talks this week, the negotiating teams are working to establish scope for agreement and will meet again at the beginning of next week. Earlier, Mr Lidington, who is leading the Government team, acknowledged the discussions were not proving easy, but said there was a responsibility on all parties to try to find a way out of the impasse. It has been difficult at times I wont deny that because there are differences between the two political parties, he said. But I think all Members of Parliament have a responsibility to try to work together. A German woman who passed herself off as a wealthy heiress to swindle US banks, hotels and even close friends has been sentenced to between four and 12 years behind bars. New York Judge Diane Kiesel said during the sentencing hearing that she was stunned by the depth of the defendants deception and turned down a request by Anna Sorokins lawyers that she be sentenced to time she has already spent in jail awaiting trial. Sorokin, 28, was convicted last month on multiple counts of grand larceny and theft of services, and has been in custody since her October 2017 arrest. Moments before she was sentenced, Sorokin briefly addressed the court, saying: I apologise for the mistakes I made. Expand Close Anna Sorokin duped victims into thinking she was an heiress (Richard Drew/AP) AP/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Anna Sorokin duped victims into thinking she was an heiress (Richard Drew/AP) Sorokin went by the name Anna Delvey when she defrauded financial institutions and Manhattan celebrity circles into believing she had a fortune of about 67 million dollars (51m) overseas that could cover her jet-set lifestyle, high-end clothing and lavish hotel stays. She falsely claimed her father was a diplomat or an oil baron, and falsified bank records and forged her identity to further the scam. Her ruse included an application for a 22 million dollar (17m) loan to fund a private arts club, complete with exhibitions, installations and pop-up shops, prosecutors said. She was denied that loan but persuaded one bank to lend her 100,000 dollars that she failed to repay. In all, prosecutors accused her of stealing some 275,000 dollars (211,000), including a 35,400 dollar (27,100) bill she failed to pay for a plane she chartered to and from the Berkshire Hathaway shareholders meeting in Omaha, Nebraska. She went to great lengths to ensure others paid her way, even as she had not a cent to her name, as far as we can determine, prosecutor Catherine McCaw said following Sorokins arrest. But jurors acquitted her of two counts, including an allegation that she promised a friend an all-expenses paid trip to Morocco and then stuck her with the 62,000 dollar (48,000) bill. She was also found not guilty of one of the most serious charges in the indictment: attempting to steal more than 1 million dollars from City National Bank. Manhattan jurors convicted Sorokin of four counts of theft of services, three counts of grand larceny and one count of attempted grand larceny following a month-long trial that drew international attention and tabloid headlines about Sorkins courtroom fashion. Her defence attorney, Todd Spodek, argued Sorokin had been buying time and planned to settle her debts. He said she lacked criminal intent and was an ambitious entrepreneur. Russian President Vladimir Putin has told the annual Victory Day parade in Red Square that the country will continue to strengthen its armed forces. The military parade marked the 74th anniversary of the defeat of Nazi Germany. It included about 13,000 troops and 130 pieces of military equipment, ranging from a T-34 tank renowned for its effectiveness in the Second World War to missile launch units. Expand Close Russian President Vladimir Putin shakes hands with veterans (Pavel Golovkin/AP) AP/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Russian President Vladimir Putin shakes hands with veterans (Pavel Golovkin/AP) Mr Putin said in his speech that we have done and will do everything necessary to ensure the high combat capability of our armed forces. He added: At the same time, Russia is open for cooperation with all who are ready to resist terrorism, neo-Nazism and extremism. Dozens of other cities also held parades for Russias most significant secular holiday. Expand Close Russian troops take part in the parade (Alexander Zemlianichenko/AP) AP/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Russian troops take part in the parade (Alexander Zemlianichenko/AP) In Ukraine, which also observes the holiday, outgoing president Petro Poroshenko hit out at Russia. For five years, the descendants of the glorious victors over Nazism have defended with arms the freedom of the Ukrainian people and their civilisation choice from Russian aggression, Mr Poroshenko said in a statement. Russia annexed Crimea from Ukraine in 2014 and backs separatist rebels who have been fighting Ukrainian forces in the countrys east for the past five years. One of the two suspects in the Colorado school shooting has appeared in court, with his head bowed and hair shielding his face. Devon Erickson, 18, made his first court appearance on Wednesday, shackled at the waist with his hands cuffed as he sat in a courtroom flanked by two defence lawyers. Erickson nodded frequently in answer to the judges questions. He is scheduled to return to court on Friday, when charges are expected to be filed. His court appearance came as Kendrick Castillo, 18, was named as the single fatality. He leapt from his desk and charged the two alleged attackers, sacrificing his life to buy classmates time to escape, authorities said. Eight other pupils were injured after two students opened fire at the school in Denver on Tuesday. The shooting at Highlands Ranch came nearly three weeks after neighbouring Littleton marked the grim 20th anniversary of the Columbine school massacre that killed 13 people. Douglas County Coroner Jill Roman has identified the deceased victim of the STEM School shooting as Kendrick Ray Castillo, 03/14/2001. We ask that the media please respect the family's privacy at this time. #STEMshooting DC Sheriff (@dcsheriff) May 8, 2019 Douglas County Sheriff Tony Spurlock said the students walked into the school in a suburb of Denver and began shooting at pupils in two classrooms. Within minutes, deputies at a nearby sheriffs department substation entered the school and arrested the two suspects after a struggle. Another teenager preparing to enter the Marines also tackled the gunmen. An armed security guard then confronted and detained one of them. Authorities said these acts of bravery helped minimise the bloodshed from the attack, which also wounded eight people. Were going to hear about very heroic things that have taken place at the school, Mr Spurlock said Wednesday. The alleged attackers were identified by law enforcement officials as Devon Erickson and a younger student who is a juvenile and was not named. They allegedly walked into the school through an entrance without metal detectors and opened fire in two classrooms. Because the attack happened only miles from Columbine and just weeks after the shootings 20th anniversary, questions quickly arose about whether it was inspired by the 1999 massacre. But investigators offered no immediate motive. Student Nui Giasolli told NBCs Today show that she was in her literature class when one of the suspects came in late and pulled out a gun. Expand Close Vehicles block the road to the Highlands Ranch school(David Zalubowski/AP) AP/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Vehicles block the road to the Highlands Ranch school(David Zalubowski/AP) Castillo lunged at the gunman, who shot the teenager. Castillos swift action gave the rest of the class time to get underneath their desks and then run across the room to escape, Giasolli said. Castillo worked part-time at a local manufacturing company. To find he went down as a hero, Im not surprised. Thats exactly who Kendrick was, said Rachel Short, president of the company, Baccara. Cecilia Bedard, 19, had known Castillo since primary school and said he was always friendly, modest and pleased to help people. He was amazing, Bedard said. He was honestly the sweetest kid I ever met. Never said a mean joke. Honored to meet & thank the Douglas CO 911 Comms Officers who handled the very 1st calls about the STEM shooting. Thanks to their behind the scenes professionalism & efficient action, our law enforcement officers were able to respond in under 2 minutes to protect the students. pic.twitter.com/32PphgqUyU Governor Jared Polis (@GovofCO) May 8, 2019 Brendan Bialy, 18, who was enrolled in a delayed-entry programme for the Marines, charged the gunmen as well, helping fight them off, according to authorities and witnesses. His decisive actions resulted in the safety and protection of his teachers and fellow classmates, Marine Captain Michael Maggiti said. Then, as the gunmen moved through the 1,800-student campus, an armed security guard detained one of them, Mr Spurlock said. The guard was employed by Boss High Level Protection, a company started by a former Swat team leader who responded to the Columbine shooting. The owner, Grant Whitus, told The Associated Press the security guard is a former Marine who ran to the area of the shootings and confronted one of the armed students in a hallway. The guard drew his weapon and apprehended the person, Mr Whitus said. He doesnt even realise how many lives he saved by stopping a school shooting, he added. Both suspects were students at the school, and they were not previously known to authorities, Mr Spurlock said. Douglas County District Attorney George Brauchler said the community remains resilient in the face of multiple shootings, including Columbine, the 2012 theatre shooting in the Denver suburb of Aurora and the 2013 shooting at Arapahoe High School. The attacks are aberrant acts although they might seem otherwise to the rest of the world, he said. Who we are is a kind, compassionate, caring people, and this does not define us. It wont today and it wont tomorrow, he said. The House Judiciary Committee voted Wednesday to hold attorney general William Barr in contempt of Congress. The move escalates the Democrats extraordinary legal battle with the Trump administration over access to special counsel Robert Muellers Trump-Russia report. The vote capped a day of ever-deepening dispute between congressional Democrats and President Donald Trump. For the first time he invoked the principle of executive privilege, claiming the right to block lawmakers from the full report on Mr Muellers probe of Russian interference to help Mr Trump in the 2016 election. Expand Close House Judiciary Committee chairman Jerrold Nadler (J Scott Applewhite/AP) AP/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp House Judiciary Committee chairman Jerrold Nadler (J Scott Applewhite/AP) Committee chairman Jerrold Nadler declared the action by Mr Trumps Justice Department a clear new sign of the presidents blanket defiance of Congress constitutional rights. Every day we learn of new efforts by this administration to stonewall Congress, Mr Nadler said. This is unprecedented. But White House press secretary Sarah Sanders said it was rather a response to the blatant abuse of power by Mr Nadler, a Democrat. Neither the White House nor attorney general Barr will comply with chairman Nadlers unlawful and reckless demands, she said. Though the White House initially hesitated on invoking privilege, Mr Trump told his staff and political advisers in recent weeks to refuse to co-operate with Democrats, believing the partys goal was simply to damage him politically going into his re-election campaign. The coming legal battle could stretch to 2020, and the White House is aiming to tie up congressional probes until election day. Executive privilege is the presidents power to keep information from the courts, Congress and the public to protect the confidentiality of the Oval Office decision-making process. The presidents decision was weeks in the making, the next inevitable escalation between the White House and Congress over a number of probes. The White House has rejected all efforts to probe Mr Trumps business dealings or tax returns as well as the West Wings security clearance procedure. The committee voted along party lines, 24-16, to hold Mr Barr in contempt but only after some five hours of heated and, at times, emotional testimony. Democrats, who have the majority in the House, made their case that Congress was at a historic juncture as it confronts what they consider Mr Trumps stonewalling of lawmakers ability to conduct oversight of the administration. Republicans portrayed the majority as angry and lashing out at Mr Barr after the special counsel did not find that Mr Trump colluded with Russia to swing the 2016 election. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said the next step after the committee vote will be consideration by the full House. If approved by the House, where the Democrats hold a solid majority, the contempt resolution would almost certainly move to an unusual, and potentially protracted, multi-pronged court battle with the Trump administration. Given the incidence of dementia it is astonishing that until now there was no hospice in the UK which had services tailored to those with the condition and also to assist their carers. It is therefore to the great credit of the Northern Ireland Hospice that, in conjunction with the Belfast Health Trust, it has been running a three-year project to improve access for those with dementia to specialist palliative care. Dementia is a horrible disease relentlessly eroding the mental facilities and personality of those affected. With no cure available carers and loved ones can only watch as the person they know fades further and further from reality and recognition. This week a groundbreaking conference drawing in experts in dementia and palliative care is being held in Belfast in the hope that greater collaboration can bring greater benefits to people with dementia and their carers. It is well established that hospices through their long experience of dealing with people with terminal illnesses - usually cancer - are the experts in palliative care. By definition hospices should be places of despair, but the opposite is often the case and that is a great consolation to those who are ill and to their relatives. The aim of the conference is to establish ways to bring that expertise and atmosphere to the care of those with dementia and, as our feature on the NI Hospice today shows, the groundwork is already being laid. Therapies such as art or music or reminiscence are used to stimulate parts of the brain and give patients a temporary sense of wellbeing. The overall aim is to make the onset of the disease as manageable and bearable as possible for all those directly involved. As one of those involved in organising this week's conference noted: why shouldn't dementia have a range of treatments just like any other disease even if it is only to mitigate the symptoms? Already those who work in the hospice have noted that dementia patients should a greater responsiveness when they are exposed to expert therapy and communication with relatives is improved. Of course this is not a reversal of the condition which progresses inexorably, but like palliative care of cancer patients the path to the inevitable outcome is less potholed. This week's conference may leave a valuable legacy for thousands of dementia patients here for many years. In a recent interview on the The Billy & Justin Show actor Kristoffer Polaha shared how an unexpected life event brought him back to Christ. The actor has started in a number of Christian films and shows including Run the Race and Where Hope Grows. While he grew up in a Christian household with a Catholic dad and a Pentecostal mom, he came to a crossroads when he was 17 years old. The actor told The Billy & Justin Show that things were going so well in life that he wondered if God was helping him or if he was simply accomplishing it all on his own without the help of God. [It was] me sort of wanting to take the place of God in my own heart, he said. To test this, he decided to not pray for six months which ended up turning into six years. Though he had drifted away from God spiritually, he felt like God was trying to pull Him back. During this period, he studied other religions, but he still prayed and sought God. Over time, he felt like he was reconnecting with God. He started feeling like God was knocking on the door of his heart, he said. But it was a close encounter with death that occurred when he and his friend walked down a street in New York City that really brought the actor back to God. We just happened to be in front of this buildingwe could have been anywhere that night at any moment, Polaha said. The dude who owned [this restaurant] was trying to burn it down and it blew up. In that moment, he knew that the explosion could have killed the two of them but it didnt. He knew God had to be playing a role in this. The fire marshall in the emergency room said, You guys should have been decapitatedyou should not be here right now and the fact that you are is a miracle, he said. God kind of broke down the door in a way, he said. All of a sudden my life wasnt my own anymore Polaha did suffer a major injury to his head that required 120 stitches, 80 needing to be applied to his face. He thought his days of acting were over after the incident, he was still able to act on both the big and small screens. Our God truly is an awesome God of miracles and spiritual breakthroughs. We want to know what you think. Construction workers use heavy equipment while building Bangladeshs first nuclear plant in Rooppur in northwestern Pabna district, about 160 km (100 miles) from Dhaka, in this undated handout photo. Updated at 2:01 p.m. ET on 2019-05-10 Three Chinese companies have started lobbying Bangladesh for a contract to build the nations second nuclear power plant, officials said, as the government pushed to finish its first multibillion-dollar Russian-backed nuclear reactor within five years. Mahbubul Hoq, chairman of Bangladesh Atomic Energy Commission, told BenarNews that officials of three Chinese companies met with him during the past few months and expressed interest in building the second nuclear plant, which is expected to cost 1.5 trillion taka (U.S. $18 billion). The project is at the formative stage, Hoq said Wednesday. We are yet to decide who would build the plant. But the officials of Chinese companies came to my office and did show their interest in building the second nuclear power plant, he said. In November 2018, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina formally inaugurated construction of the first nuclear plant estimated to cost more than 1 trillion taka (U.S. $13 billion) in Rooppur in northwestern Pabna district, about 160 km (100 miles) from Dhaka. Officials expect it to become operational by 2024, about a year from its original target date of completion. Previously, officials said the two reactors would be expected to produce a combined output of 2,400 megawatts per day. Hopefully, we will start producing electricity by December 2024, Hoq said, referring to the first power plant. He said representatives of the China National Nuclear Corp. (CNNC) handed him brochures about the state-owned company during their meeting at his office in Dhaka. Besides, two more representatives of the Chinese companies saw me in this regard. They assured us that they could build the nuclear plant using state-of-the-art technology, Hoq said while declining to name the other companies. The Chinese embassy in Dhaka did not respond to BenarNews emails seeking comments. Hoq said Hasina, during a recent public event, pledged to build the second plant in the southern coastal districts. In line with her announcement, the authorities last year tasked us to find a suitable place to build the second nuclear power plant, Hoq said. Project director Mizanur Rahman confirmed to BenarNews that the government had approved plans to build the second plant in one of the countrys southern coastal districts. Currently, we have been working on site selection, he said, adding that the officials of the Chinese companies formally expressed their intent through letters sent to the ministry of science and technology and the chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission. Bangladesh has not decided on how it would finance the construction of the second plant. Officials previously told BenarNews that Russia was providing 90 percent of the funds for the first plant through soft loans, while the Bangladeshi government would shoulder the remaining 10 percent of the construction cost. Getting dragged in China-India regional power play China is one of Bangladeshs largest trading partners, with bilateral trade reaching about U.S. $12 billion annually, with imbalance tilted heavily in Beijings favor. The Bangladeshi Army has been equipped with Chinese tanks, its navy uses Chinese frigates and its air force flies Chinese fighter jets. There are 400 Chinese companies in Bangladesh, according to Chinese envoy Zhang Zuo during a speech at a Dhaka business event last month. Bangladesh officially joined Chinas massive One Belt One Road (OBOR) infrastructure initiative in 2016 when it signed agreements for implementing 27 projects, including 10 infrastructure initiatives that would be financed by Beijing, according to documents from the Bangladesh finance ministry. Of the total 27 projects, 10 are Belt-and-Road initiative projects, a ministry official told BenarNews on the condition of anonymity. But we do not mention in official papers due to political sensitivity about the BRI. OBOR, also known in other countries as Belt-and-Road Initiative (BRI), is Beijings globe-spanning project with a price tag of at least U.S. $1 trillion. It stretches across 70 countries and aims to become a 21st Century Silk Road by weaving a network of railways, ports and bridges, linking China with Africa, Europe and Southeast Asia. But involving Beijing in the construction of nuclear plants in Bangladesh may drag Hasinas government into the power tussle between Beijing and New Delhi over dominance in South Asia, an analyst told BenarNews. The influence of Chinese companies has been on the rise, said Hossain Zillur Rahman, an economist and former commerce adviser. Now they want to implement nuclear power project in Bangladesh. Updated to correct that China's bilateral trade with Bangladesh was about U.S. $12 billion annually instead of $18 billion. Indonesian President Joko Widodo (right, front) wears a helmet while leading a group of officials as he inspects the construction site of a high-speed railway in West Java, Jan. 21, 2016. Indonesias investment chief expressed optimism about the future of Chinas massive One Belt One Road (OBOR) infrastructure initiative in his country, despite lingering domestic criticism about Beijings growing economic influence. President Joko Jokowi Widodo has made improving Indonesias dilapidated infrastructure a priority, and during his first term embraced Chinese investment and attended the initiatives 2017 unveiling in Beijing. Multibillion-dollar projects under the OBOR banner in Indonesia feature the construction of a high-speed rail link and dams. Thomas Lembong, chairman of the National Investment Coordinating Board, said this week he believed that the Chinese leadership will do whatever it takes to make Belt and Road a success. Well, Im very happy, because its going in the right direction, as far as Im concerned, he told foreign correspondents in Jakarta on Wednesday. Lembong also praised Chinese President Xi Jinping for what he described as a stunningly humble posture in responding to criticism about OBOR. Soon after Indonesias presidential and legislative elections in April, Lembong accompanied Vice President Jusuf Kalla to the second international OBOR forum in Beijing. Kalla witnessed the signing there of 23 agreements between Indonesia and China, which Jakarta has described as business-to-business deals. The president who just won reelection according to unofficial quick-count projections by independent pollsters highlighted his infrastructure push during a major post-electoral speech on Thursday. In it, he announced plans to unveil tougher reforms aimed at boosting the economy, as well as lifting Indonesia to developed nation status by 2045. First and foremost is infrastructure. Equal development must be achieved. Without it, dont ever dream of Indonesia progressing to be a country with the worlds fourth or fifth economy, Jokowi told the National Development Planning Conference in Jakarta, according to Indonesian news outlet Tempo. Because he was heading into his second and last term in office due to term limits, he said he was no longer burdened by elections. So I will do whatever it takes for the countrys sake, Bloomberg quoted him as saying. Opposition politicians and conservative Muslim groups have accused Jokowi of being too soft on China by opening doors to Chinese investment in Southeast Asias largest economy and, with it, Chinese workers. A modern-day Silk Road OBOR, Chinese leader Xis signature policy, is an estimated U.S. $1 trillion-plus initiative that stretches across 70 countries. It aims to become a 21st century Silk Road by weaving a network of railways, ports and bridges, linking China with Africa, Europe and Southeast Asia. Beijings globe-spanning project has drawn criticism domestically and abroad, amid accusations that China is engaging in a debt-trap diplomacy by extending excessive credit with the alleged intention of extracting economic or political concessions from the debtor country. Economists contend that the initiative forces emerging economies to take on unsustainable levels of debt to fund Beijing-backed projects. They highlight concerns by pointing out that a Chinese state-owned company took over a majority stake in Sri Lankas Hambantota port after Colombo struggled to repay its loans from China. In Indonesia, the perceived influx of Chinese workers has spawned criticism and was a key issue during campaigning for the April 17 presidential election. The opposition camp tapped into historic sentiment against the countrys ethnic Chinese minority and whipped up fears about eroding sovereignty. It cant be denied that the Chinese have built a lot of bridges, dams, factories and other infrastructure in recent years, said Achmad Sukarsono, an analyst at Control Risks, a Singapore-based consultancy. These things may not be of high quality, but the Chinese get the jobs done, in places where Japanese and Western investors wont take a second look, he told BenarNews. The Jokowi government favors the arrangements with the Chinese because they arent too legalistic, with less attention paid to things like human rights, as long as they deliver and both sides interests align, he said. There were occasional tensions in projects where Chinese nationals are employed as menial workers, foremen and managers, Achmad said. Economist: Benefit to local economy minimal Indonesias infrastructure needs cannot be financed by the state budget alone and OBOR is an attractive financing mechanism, said Bhima Yudhistira, an economist at the Institute for Development of Economics and Finance. But Chinese investment often comes with workers, raw materials, machinery and technology, with the pretext that they arent readily available here. So the benefit to the local economy is often minimal, Bhima told BenarNews. Despite its embrace of OBOR, the government has insisted that any infrastructure project under the scheme should be profitable and conducted on a business-to-business basis. Lembong, the Indonesian investment chief, acknowledged that the Jokowi government had burned untold amounts of political capital with its decision to welcome Chinese investment. Supporting Chinese investment in Indonesia exposes us to this hoax and attacks that were somehow an offshoot of the Communist Party, or secretly Chinese, or openly Chinese, and or secretly pro-China or what have you, he told reporters. But Indonesia would miss out tremendously if it abstained from Chinese investment, Lembong said. What happens then is that Chinese investment will just go next door, to Malaysia, to Thailand, to Cambodia and eventually Myanmar, maybe even the Philippines at some point, and all of them will see enhanced competitiveness, and we will not, he said. Sino-Indonesian trade grew almost tenfold from 2003 to 2010 alone, when the volume reached 524 trillion rupiah (U.S. $36.1 billion), according to the International Institute for Sustainable Development, a Canada-based independent think-tank. China was Indonesias third largest investor after Singapore and Japan in 2018, with investment worth $2.4 billion. The government has said all along that we wont meddle except for facilitating and issuing necessary regulations, said Wijayanto Samirin, an economic adviser to Kalla, the vice president. We have learned from the experience of other countries and conveyed to President Xi Jinping that China must respect our independence, he told CNBC Indonesia last April. Projects OBORs flagship project in Indonesia, a U.S. $6-billion high-speed railway linking the city of Bandung in West Java and the capital Jakarta, went through initial setbacks after it was launched by Jokowi in 2016 to much fanfare. Construction resumed last year after a delay for more than two years. Lembong blamed the delay on good old-fashioned mismanagement and incompetence and said the problems were being fixed and the consortium building the railway was now being led by a younger and more energetic chief executive. The project has been in difficulty, he said, but Im confident its now being fixed. A China-backed hydropower project in Indonesia already is under the spotlight amid concerns that it could threaten the worlds rarest orangutan species. The U.S. $1.6 billion hydropower plant in the Batang Toru rainforest on Sumatra Island will divide the habitat of about 800 Tapanuli orangutan and increase the risk of their extinction, environmental groups and scientists have said. Other OBOR projects include a hydroelectric project in North Kalimantan in the Indonesian section of Borneo estimated to cost 363 trillion rupiah (U.S. $25 billion) and a series of coal-fired power plants estimated to cost 174 trillion rupiah (U.S. $12 billion). Achmad, of Control Risks, said problems in securing land also contributed to the delay in the high-speed train project. But he said smaller Chinese-backed projects in remote places in the archipelago were mostly completed on time. Jokowi is expected to continue courting Chinese investments in his second term, Achmad said. An official preliminary count after the April 17 election showed Jokowi poised for a second term with a 10-percentage-point lead. The Chinese are here to stay and their role is unlikely to be reduced, he said, because they have contributed so much to Jokowis programs. Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad delivers a speech in Putrajaya marking the first anniversary of a historic election that brought the Pakatan Harapan coalition government to power, May 9, 2019. Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad called Thursday on parties in the ruling bloc to stay united or risk turning Malaysia into a failed state, as the nation marked the first anniversary of a stunning change in governments. The four members of the Pakatan Harapan coalition, or Alliance of Hope, had put aside their differences in a historic election a year ago on May 9 to rid Malaysia of what Mahathir described as a kleptocracy, during a televised speech at a celebration rally in the administrative capital Putrajaya. Pakatan Harapan was founded as a coalition of four opposing parties. The aim was only one to topple the Najib Razak-led Barisan Nasional (BN) government, he said to a round of applause from those gathered at the Putrajaya International Convention Center. Mahathir recounted how Pakatan faced an uphill battle against the incumbent coalition, whose anchor party, the United Malays National Organization (UMNO), had led Malaysia throughout the countrys 61-year existence. Political pundits, academicians and newspaper columnists who deemed the campaign an impossible task did not fully understand the publics frustration with BNs corruption, the prime minister said. Without fear of threats, pressure and polling day corruption, the people denied Barisan Nasional and gave a big mandate to Pakatan Harapan, he said. But if we cannot put aside our differences, things will get worse, the country will suffer and Malaysia would be in danger of becoming a failed state, he added. Pakatan, consisting of the mainly ethnic-Chinese Democratic Action Party (DAP), the Peoples Justice Party (PKR), the faith-based National Trust Party (Amanah) and the Malaysian United Indigenous Party (Bersatu) chaired by Mahathir won 113 of the 222 seats in parliament to take control of the government through its majority. Since then, the Pakatan government has cracked down against corruption, reopening an investigation into the beleaguered state fund 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB). The probe led to criminal charges against Najib and others linked to what, the U.S. Justice Department alleged, included the diversion of $4.5 billion (18.3 billion ringgit) in 1MDB-linked money into bank accounts belonging to him, his friends and family. American government officials have described the 1MDB scandal, which reached across the globe, as kleptocracy at its worst. Even as Najib stands trial on seven of 42 charges filed against him, Mahathir said people were becoming bored with hearing about the wrongdoings of the previous government and were hammering the current administration to deliver on election promises. The reality is that the wrongdoing of the Barisan Nasional government under Najib is a huge problem that is getting in the way of national recovery and the publics prosperity, Mahathir said in Thursdays speech. In addition, his government, which made promises in its Book of Hope election manifesto, has faced a barrage of criticism from opponents aligned with Najib for failing to deliver and instead using the former prime minister as a scapegoat. The key challenge is to restore the image of this country. We have a lot of people taking potshots at us, including the press and now social media, because they see us as a target, Mahathir said. A year into its government, the ruling coalition has brought diversity to its leadership in multiethnic and multi-religious Malaysia. Among the government firsts are a female deputy prime minister, Wan Azizah Wan Ismail; female chief justice, Tengku Maimun Tuan Mat; and an attorney general not from ethnic Malay majority, Tommy Thomas. We have to do something, and when you do something you expose yourself to criticism we must take action against miscreants who stole money from the government, the prime minister said. Of course, some people are not very happy, because they thought they can get away with their misdeeds. Najib: Sad with what is happening with our country After a year of appearing in court to face a litany of charges and watching police remove millions in cash, jewelry and designer handbags from properties linked to him, Najib has started to see a rise in popularity. Among those turning back to Najib are disgruntled voters who hoped for the immediate economic solution promised by Pakatan. On the anniversary of the election that swept him from power, Najib posted a 12-minute video to Facebook where he read a list of Pakatan failures along with what he called slanders thrown at him. The video had more than 100,000 views during its first hour. I am sad with what is happening with our country just after one year, but there is a silver lining because the people can make a comparison between Pakatan Harapan and Barisan Nasional, Najib said. Interim prime minister Speaking to reporters before his televised address, Mahathir, 93, talked about remaining in office. But he did not clarify whether he planned to stay on as the nations leader for one or two more years. He had campaigned on stepping down to make way for his successor, Anwar Ibrahim, the leader of PKR who was in prison last year but was since pardoned by the king and elected to parliament. I think I will be able to make most of the correction in the period of two years and after that the others will have less problem with it, Mahathir said, adding that he saw himself as an interim prime minister. Anwar, meanwhile, delivered his own message to mark the coalitions first year in office. He issued a warning against racism before thanking Mahathir, a former political foe, for rallying the opposition to victory in 2018. The problem of race relations in the country appears to be getting worse amid Harapans efforts to realize the coveted change and reforms, he told Malaysiakini news site on Wednesday. The threat of racist and communal flames should not be taken lightly and brushed aside, and if left unchecked could destroy all the efforts to put the country back on track. Mahathir has been under pressure from Malays to protect privileges for them that are enshrined in the constitution. In November, he backpedaled on a campaign pledge that his government would support a U.N. treaty, the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (ICERD). The move came amid a backlash from critics who expressed fears that backing the treaty could undermine those privileges for Malays. A year on, the Pakatan government is caught in a political and socioeconomic see-saw, Political analyst Oh Ei Sun observed. On one end, they have their liberal-core voter base and on the other are the regressive, conservative voters who eluded them in the last general election and whom they are eager to court, Oh told BenarNews. Hence you see the frequent flip-flopping of erstwhile liberal-minded policy initiatives. Having reached the goal of toppling Najib, Oh said the loose PH coalition could unravel. It is possible if they dont take care of the looming succession crisis between an obviously reluctant Mahathir and a conspicuously assertive Anwar, he said. Protesters display placards during a rally at a park in Manila calling for an end to killings in the Philippines, Sept. 21, 2017. An undetermined number of gunmen shot dead a trial court judge in the volatile southern Philippines on Thursday, police said, in the fourth killing of court officers since President Rodrigo Duterte took power almost three years ago. Regional Trial Court Judge Reymar Lacaya was pronounced dead upon arrival at a hospital after he was gunned down as he was about to board his pickup truck in the town of Liloy, Zamboanga del Norte province, about 739 km (462 miles) south of Manila, according to police Capt. Gregorio Bongolan. We are still investigating how many gunmen were involved in the shooting, Bongolan told BenarNews. In Manila, Supreme Court Chief Justice Lucas Bersamin condemned the killing as he urged authorities to get to the bottom of the case. The entire judiciary condemns in the strongest possible terms the killing of Judge Lacaya, Bersamin said in a statement, which was posted on Twitter by the Supreme Courts public information office. I am urging the authorities to exert their best efforts for the immediate apprehension of those responsible for Judge Lacayas death, he said, noting that Lacaya became the 30th judge slain while in office since 1999 and the fourth killed since 2017. Lacaya was the son of a former governor of Zamboanga del Norte, the Late Virgilio Lacaya, who served from 1967 to 1980, according to the Philippine Daily Inquirer. In August 2017, Godofredo Abul Jr., a judge in the city of Butuan, also in the southern Philippines was shot dead while he was on board his vehicle with his wife, police said. On June 12 last year, municipal trial court Judge Ricky Begino was walking in front of his house in Camarines Sur province, 439 km southeast of Manila, when he was shot dead by a lone gunman. Four months later, regional trial court Judge Edmundo Pintac was heading home when four men riding motorcycles ambushed him in the southern city of Ozamis. Pintac was handling drug cases and police said the motive could be linked to the drug case against Ozamiz City Vice Mayor Nova Princess Parojinog, who was arrested in July 2017 in a major raid against what Duterte calls narco politicians. Her father, Mayor Reynaldo Parojinog, her mother and 13 others were among those killed in the raid. It was not clear who was behind those attacking the court officers, but Duterte had earlier warned that lawyers protecting suspected drug lords were fair game. He had also claimed that there were corrupt judges protecting drug syndicates. Since Duterte took power in mid-2016, about 5,000 suspected drug dealers and addicts have been killed in what police described as shootouts during law-enforcement operations. Human Rights Watch officials have said that thousands of others were killed, but their deaths were considered under investigation or blamed on vigilantes. Froilan Gallardo in Cagayan de Oro contributed to this report. A US Marine Amphibious Assault Vehicle maneuvers near the USS Wasp during the amphibious landing exercises as part Balikatan Exercise 2019, April 11, 2019. The Philippine Navy joined top defense ally the United States and regional powers Japan and India in sailing across disputed areas in the South China Sea after recent drills in South Korea, officials said Thursday. The show of force came as the Philippines remained locked in a territorial dispute with China, which has sent fishing ships into maritime territory within Manilas exclusive economic zone. The six military ships from the four countries sailed from Busan, South Korea, following the first phase of the ASEAN-Plus Defense Ministers Meeting (ADMM-Plus) Maritime Security Field Training Exercise 2019, according to the Philippine Navy. They crossed over to Singapore, where the second phase of the drills are to be completed. Navy spokesman Capt. Jonathan Zata said the decision to conduct maritime exercises occurred during discussions among commanders at the Busan training. This combined transit exercise aimed to deepen the partnership and foster mutual understanding between participant countries. As with other naval exercises, this activity is expected to validate the decades of friendship, partnership and cooperative engagement that has been long established and observed between the Philippines, US, Japan and India, Zata said. The United States, which has vowed to sail through the region to show freedom of navigation in the South China Sea, was excited to take part in the event, said Cmdr. Andrew Klug of the USS William P. Lawrence. Professional engagements with our allies, partners and friends in the region allow us the opportunity to build upon existing, strong relationships, as well as to learn from each other, Klug said. The trip came after China and the Philippines appeared to diplomatically settle differences in the region. Manila had warned Beijing about the presence of its ships in Philippine-claimed territory around Pag-asa Island. China claims most of the mineral-rich South China Sea, including areas that reach the shores of its smaller neighbors. Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines, Vietnam and Taiwan also have overlapping claims to the maritime region. Multilateral cooperation During the weeklong transit, the ships conducted a series of training exercises and social interactions. Transiting through the disputed region was a conduct of freedom of safe navigation in support of rules-based international system, the Philippine Navy said. Capt. Roy Vincent Trinidad, who is leading the Philippine Navy delegation, said the sail validated multilateral cooperation among the four nations. The group sail showed the active participation of the Philippine Navy as it strengthens its relationships with allies and partners in the Asia-Pacific region. This gives us another opportunity to learn from like-minded navies, Trinidad said. Last month, about 4,000 Filipino, 50 Australian and 3,500 American troops participated in Balikatan Exercise 2019, an annual joint military exercise. The amphibious warship USS Wasp, which has sailed through the South China Sea, was deployed for the exercise. A party closely linked to Thailands junta appeared positioned to lead a new government after electoral officials assigned remaining seats in parliaments lower house Wednesday, using a complex formula that opposition leaders slammed as unfair and illegal. After the Constitutional Court approved the mathematical formula to award party-list seats, the Thai Election Commission (EC) later in the day announced official results for 149 of those seats that it allocated based on voting in the March 24 general election. There still was no outright winner but Wednesdays results gave the pro-junta Palang Pracharat Party (PPP) a clear edge in its bid to form the first government since the military seized power in a coup five years ago. The 149 party-list seats were calculated based on the total vote and were awarded to 27 parties. The opposition Pheu Thai Party, which won 136 of the 350 contested parliamentary constituency races, did not pick up any of the additional seats. PPP, which supports junta-leader turned Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-o-cha and received the most votes, benefitted from the formula, adding 18 seats to go with the 97 won on election day. The EC said it was investigating complaints about the March 24 vote. At present, the Election Commission is in a process of considering more than 400 complaints, about 50 among those are related to qualifications. The EC has one year by law for electoral revocation or re-election if fault is found, said Sawang Boonmee, deputy Election Commission secretary-general. To form a new government, a party must have majority support (at least 376 votes) from the 500 members of parliament and the 250 senate members who are to be hand-picked later this month by the junta government. Because the senators are appointed by Prayuths government, observers expect them to support the PPP, adding 250 to the partys 115 for a total of 365. On Wednesday, Reuters news service reported that parties aligned with PPP had seven seats, bringing the total to 372. Parties holding large numbers of seats include: Pheu Thai, 136; Future Forward Party 80; the Democrat Party 52; and the Bhumjaithai Party, 51. Complaints The Pheu Thai Party, Thailands largest opposition party, which is associated with deposed and exiled former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, called the formula unconstitutional. The Pheu Thai Party sees the Election Commissions proceedings as deliberate actions and use of power in violations of the constitution and the (electoral) law, it said in a statement, according to Reuters. The Future Forward Party, another party in the opposition, also objected to the ECs decision on the party-list seats. The EC exercises its power in a way costing seven MPs of Future Forward Party, said Piyabutr Saengkanokkul, the partys secretary-general, in a letter presented to the EC. These people were affected by the EC, which performed its duty unconstitutionally. Future Forward chief Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit told a news conference Wednesday that his party was prepared to negotiate with any party that does not support Prayuth as a prime minister in order for our democracy to move forward, Agence France-Presse reported. Analysts said the system made it difficult for the opposition parties to form a coalition to control more than half of the 500 parliamentary seats. When as many as 27 parties have seats, the parties in the democratic front find it harder to form a new government because they have less than 250 seats, Professor Anusorn Unno, dean of sociology and anthropology Thammasat University in Bangkok, told BenarNews on Wednesday. Titipol Phakdeewanich, who heads the political science faculty at Ubon Ratchathani University, supported Anusorns observation. Even if Pheu Thai Party can find 251 votes, it is not certain that it can find 376 votes in selecting prime minister, Titipol told BenarNews. The roles of senators may entice small parties to join Palang Pracharat Party. Palang Pracharat stands a good chance of becoming the new government, but I reiterate here it is an illegitimate one, Titipol said. The WISE Cortical Strip is a single use medical device for IntraOperative Neurophysiological Monitoring during brain tumour and epilepsy surgeries. WISE Srl, a medical device company developing next-generation implantable leads for neuromonitoring and neuromodulation, has enrolled its first patient in the pivotal clinical study of its WISE Cortical Strip. The WISE Cortical Strip is a single use medical device for IntraOperative Neurophysiological Monitoring during brain tumour and epilepsy surgeries. It is used for continuous recording of the brains electrical activity and for brain stimulation. The WIN Study (WISE Cortical Strip for Intraoperative Neurophysiological Monitoring study) is a prospective, interventional, multi-center, open-label premarket study, expected to enroll approximately 33 patients. Designed to confirm the safety and performance of the WISE Cortical Strip, the first patient has been enrolled at Universitatsspital Zurich. The study is being carried out at four clinical centres in Germany and Switzerland: Munich University Hospital, Inselspital Bern and Kantonspital Luzern in addition to the Zurich centre. The WISE Cortical Strip is unique as it is made of pliable platinum electrodes embedded in a soft, thin film of silicone, overcoming the stiffness and rigidity of traditional cortical strips. It is highly ergonomic and conformable even on surfaces as soft and wrinkly as the brain. WISEs proprietary and patented metallization technology enables stretchable and pliable electronic microcircuits to be inserted into biocompatible silicones. This allows much better adhesion to the brain surface, minimal invasion, excellent adaptability and low impedance of the electrical circuit. The study is due to conclude in Q3 2019, with the results to be published shortly afterwards. CEO of WISE, Dr. Luca Ravagnan said: Initiating the pivotal study of our WISE Cortical Strip is a key milestone for us as we work towards CE approval and commercialization. Patient enrollment is on schedule and we look forward to feedback from the surgeons on ease of use and low electrical impedance. PD Dr. med. Neidert from Universitatsspital Zurich said: We have been impressed so far with the ability of the WISE Cortical Strip to tightly adhere to the brain surface without the need of any pressure, allowing it to obtain low impedance contact from all the electrodes of the strip. The electrodes are also easy to position, which is not something you would expect in a very flexible electrode. Prof. Dr. med. A. Szelenyi from Munich University Hospital, coordinating investigator of the WIN Study concluded: The WISE Cortical Strip is an exciting technology and we look forward to seeing the final study results. For the first time, researchers have developed a non-intrusive way to generate large quantities of stem cells using only a small amount of blood A discovery by researchers at Queens University Belfast and Kings College London (KCL) could revolutionise treatment for vascular and diabetes related cardiovascular diseases. The researchers have developed technology that can produce large quantities of stem cells in a short time, using only a small blood sample. They have also found that the stem cells produced can generate and replace damaged cells within blood vessels. This treatment could prevent a range of vascular-related complications including heart attacks, kidney disease, blindness and amputations in people with diabetes. Principal Investigator, Dr Andriana Margariti from the Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine at Queens University Belfast, explains: Being able to produce large quantities of stem cells from a few millilitres of blood in a short timeframe is truly ground-breaking. This could revolutionise how we treat a vast number of blood vessel diseases. Previously, this cell transformation process would have involved a skin biopsy, or large volumes of blood, which simply isnt viable for many patients as it is a risky process which can take a long recovery time. This study focused on stem cells for vascular diseases but the same process can be used to produce stem cells for a number of organs, including the brain and kidneys, which has huge implications for the future of healthcare. The Queens and KCL researchers have also discovered that activating a particular gene known as Endothelial Specific Molecule 1 (ESM1) in the stem cells could enhance the production and function of newly generating endothelial cells, which play a key role in a number of vascular diseases. Endothelial cells line the blood vessels, acting as a protective barrier. As the top layer of cells in the blood vessels, it is these cells that become seriously damaged in cardiovascular disease, and this is often accelerated in patients with diabetes. People with cardiovascular disease and diabetes are more likely to suffer from heart attacks, blindness and poor circulation because their endothelial cells are damaged. Dr Margariti explains: A major source of mortality among those with cardiovascular diseases, and especially patients with diabetes, is due to irreversible damage to their endothelial cells which can lead to blockage of blood flow to the heart, eyes, kidney and limbs. The preclinical study, published in Stem Cell Journals, showed that stem cells expressing the ESM1 gene have a remarkable regenerative potential and significantly increased the blood-flow when they were tested in damaged blood vessels. In a concept known as cell therapy, damage can be repaired through the transplantation of healthy endothelial cells. Professor Alan Stitt, Dean of Innovation and Education at Queens University Belfast and co-author explained: Through the technology developed, we can readily produce stem cells to transplant to damaged blood vessels. We have discovered that activating the particular gene ESM1 will improve the production and function of endothelial cells, reversing the damaged cells. This is life-changing as the results have shown that repairing these cells can stop the progressive illnesses, which will prevent blindness and amputations. Cell transplantation has huge potential though it is not suitable for all vascular diseases such as coronary disease. Now we know how to generate and improve the function of these cells, we will focus on screening drugs to see which treatments will further improve the function of these cells and ultimately improve the lives of millions of people afflicted with these illnesses. As Africa's biggest and fastest-growing technology hub, BigFive Digital has chosen Cape Town as host for its inaugural summit. This event is a first for the continent for companies building digital marketing, commerce, and back-office solutions for small businesses across Africa and the Middle East (AME). Pioneers in the provision of digital media and marketing technology solutions to the regions SMEs will meet for three days of knowledge-sharing, networking and dynamic debate from 1315 May 2019 in Cape Town.According to the 2018 Endeavor Insight Report, released in conjunction with the Cape Innovation and Technology Initiative (CiTi), Wesgro and the Allan Gray Orbis Foundation, Cape Town employs over 40,000 people within the sector - twice as many as Johannesburg. Other major tech hubs in Africa such as Lagos and Nairobi employ 9,000 and 7,000 people respectively, according to CiTi. Cape Towns unique blend of unrivalled scenic beauty, urban style and global culture have made it a melting pot of creativity and innovation for digital and tech professionals.The choice of Cape Town as location for the inaugural BigFive Summit, where digital solutions for African companies are showcased, is testament to the fact that Cape Town is not only emerging as Africas tech hub but also a hub for thought leadership in tech-enabled approaches to doing business, says Tim Harris, CEO of Wesgro.This event also shows increasing global recognition for Cape Town as an internationally competitive tech and innovation hub. The Cape region's strength lies in a combination of factors including access to sound infrastructure and a skilled and energetic workforce, proximity to four top universities and two globally recognized business schools, a favourable lifestyle, and a local and provincial government supportive of entrepreneurship and innovation.Hosted by BigFive Digital, a thought-leadership enterprise connecting AME media and tech companies to SMEs, BigFive Summit will assemble a compelling mix of media, tech and digital stakeholders, influential thought-leaders, and disruptive start-ups in Cape Town to address the five key elements fuelling the rise and growth of the AME digital ecosystem , andAs Africas leading technology hub, it is indeed our honour to host the BigFive Summit in Cape Town, says Alderman James Vos, Mayoral Committee Member for Economic Opportunities and Asset Management. As a forward-thinking city, we look forward to continuing to enable the Tech sector and partnering with endeavours arising from this Summit.The summit is set to feature headline talks and workshops that will challenge thinking, stimulate ideas and offer practical advice for those with the common goal of bringing to market digital solutions for SMEs throughout Africa and the Middle East.Speakers include Katlego Maphai, co-Founder and CEO of Yoco; Louw Barnardt, co-Founder and MD of Outsourced CFO; Gustav Praekelt, founder and CEO of South African Praekelt Group; Sarah Utermark, country director, Mobile Marketing Association South Africa; and Nick Grubb, chief executive: Radio at Kagiso Media.For more, go to www.bigfivedigital.org/summit The African Fashion International (AFI) named young designer Sindisile Mbobo as the winner of the 2019 Fastrack programme at the recent Cape Town Fashion Week 2019. Where are you from? Why did you decide to move to Cape Town? When did your interest in fashion start? What was your fashion journey like? What is your label name? And why? You won one of the most recognised designer awards in SA. How did you feel? Was this the first competition you won? What advice do you have for aspiring designers? On your path as a designer, how did you equip yourself apart from completing your fashion qualification? The Fastrack programme is currently in its eighth year, and has seen the likes of Hugo Fleur, Thebe Magugu and Rich Mnisi compete on the platform. As winner of the AFI Fastrack award Sindi Serape will have access to Fashion Week runways in South Africa and Morocco and receives a R50,000 cash prize to start his business.We were interested in determining what drives and inspires him.I was born and raised in Kimberley, Northern Cape, South Africa. I was raised by my aunt and grandmother.I went to Cape Town for the calmness. I wanted to fully focus on my studies, Cape Town allowed it. And it has beautiful scenery of craftsmanship in respective fields. I merely wanted to take time and learn what I want to do.From my toddler years, when I could identify subjects. My grandmother always looked well-dressed and she enjoyed dressing up and understood how clothes can make you feel I fell in love with that story. Although it was not a popular or supported industry, it also was not encouraged as a field of study. I just had to be bold and make a decision and stand by it through thick and thin. I really enjoy the process of design being brought to lifeIt wasn't easy at all. I had to unlearn a lot and learn new tactics. But through the filtration process, I discovered myself. It was an eventful journey. A lot of sleepless nights and sacrifices.Name Brand. A nameless brand for unnamed people. I wanted to create an awareness of people who make a difference in society, but instead of gaining recognition, they are undermined. I wanted to change that stigma, but dressing people in clothing reminiscent of blue-collar uniforms. It changes perception, now you'll start paying attention to them because you wish to mimic their attire.I've always heard of AFI Fastrack when I started at fashion college. It was something to aim for. Years later, Im the winner. That's crazy, it felt like your parents giving you the exact gift that you've always wanted. Its breathtaking I'm over the moon. Hard work pays off.The first competition I entered was Die Burger Young Designer Competition, which I was a finalist in. I later succeeded in many thereafter.I still feel I need advice myself! But those following, I say stick to your narrative, it's your story, tell it your way and see it. Be cool.I assisted numerous designers, volunteering; our exchange was knowledge of labour. I interned at SA Menswear Week for three years, and also fulfilled other design-related jobs. It was a balance of college and preparing for the industry. I had to learn people skills, which I obtained as a waiter and cashier. It was all worth it because I learned how to conduct myself small pieces of puzzle adding up to something big.We are excited about Serapes fashion career and his upcoming ranges. You can follow his journey at about.me/sindiserape PR Newswire HONG KONG, May 9, 2019 HONG KONG, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- The JNA Awards, Asia's most prestigious awards for the jewellery and gemstone industry, has made a donation that will support Hunan Aimier's inclusive theatre project over two years, starting in 2019. The project aims to raise public awareness for physically and mentally handicapped children and offers them a platform to express themselves through the arts; and to ultimately help them integrate better into the community. Organised by Informa Markets and founded in 2012, JNA Awards is not only dedicated to recognising and celebrating best business practices and innovations in the jewellery and gemstone trade, but also advocates sustainable development and upholds corporate social responsibility. Supporting Aimier's theatre project is the first of JNA Awards' initiatives for supporting underprivileged and underserved groups. Hunan Aimier was founded in 1999 as the first professional social service organisation in Hunan, China. It currently runs seven centres that cover the provinces of Hunan, Hubei and Jiangxi. Hunan Aimier, whose ultimate goal is to build an inclusive society full of care and hope, aims to help underprivileged individuals and families overcome their daily challenges by following the principle of "serving with love to create value". Inclusive theatre, which traces its roots to the United Kingdom, is a platform that connects individuals who are regarded as underprivileged and vulnerable in conventional society for various reasons. First introduced in China in 2012 by Hunan Aimier in cooperation with United Kingdom-based Chickenshed Theatre Group, the theatre workshop empowers both disabled and ordinary children to cooperate, learn and demonstrate their ability and talents together on stage. The 3-year programme was also designed so that all children can express their individuality through drama, which will hopefully pave the way towards a truly inclusive and harmonious society. Letitia Chow, Chairperson of the JNA Awards and Director of Business Development - Jewellery Group at Informa Markets remarked, "Informa Markets is a strong supporter of cultivating corporate social responsibility. We hope that we can set an example through this initiative, so that the jewellery trade would be made more aware of these children with special needs and to support them in their own way. Hence, they can learn and grow in a supportive environment and can be better integrated into the society." Hunan Aimier commented, "There is always a lack in resources for providing support to these disabled children. Inclusive theatre not only serves as a platform for them to learn and to develop their talents, but also allows ordinary children to meet with people from different backgrounds at a young age. In the long run, it will be greatly beneficial to building an inclusive and tolerant community. We are grateful for the support from JNA Awards, which allows us to run the project for two years. We wish to establish a permanent inclusive theatre in China in the near future, and to allow these children to shine on the world stage." JNA Awards 2019 is supported by Headline Partners Chow Tai Fook Jewellery Group, the Shanghai Diamond Exchange, and DANAT, together with Honoured Partners KGK Group, China Gems and Jade Exchange, and Guangdong Land Holdings Limited. For more information, visit http://www.JNAawards.com/ or contact:JNA Awards MarketingInforma Markets [email protected] Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/883947/Theatre_workshop.jpg Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/883944/Informa_Markets_Logo.jpg Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/774742/JNA_Awards_logo_2019_CMYK_Logo.jpg Reciba en su email: noticias de ultima hora, analisis tecnicos o el cierre de mercado Email no valido Nombre requerido Recibira las informaciones mas relevantes del dia en tiempo real Que informacion desea recibir? Noticias de Ultima hora Boletin Cierre de Mercado Boletin analisis tecnico Boletin Fundsnews Debe seleccionar un tipo de boletin Acepto la Politica de privacidad Debe aceptar la politica de privacidad Responsable EMPRESAS DEL GRUPO WEB FINANCIAL GROUP Finalidad La remision de informacion, novedades y promociones Establecimiento o mantenimiento de Relaciones Comerciales. Legitimacion Consentimiento del interesado. Interes legitimo en el desarrollo de la relacion comercial Destinatario Empresas del Grupo WEB FINANCIAL GROUP Derechos Acceso, rectificacion, supresion, limitacion, oposicion y portabilidad Informacion adicional Politica de Privacidad de nuestra pagina Web + INFORMACION The U.S. Air Force has deployed Airmen and F-16C Fighting Falcons to Campia Turzii, Romania, as a part of a Theater Security Package in support of Operation Atlantic Resolve. F-16C (Picture source: US Air Force ) The Airmen and aircraft are assigned to the 475th Fighter Squadron, 301st Fighter Wing, Joint Reserve Base Fort Worth, Texas, and are deployed as the 457th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron. Funded through the European Deterrence Initiative, the TSP provides a more robust U.S. military rotational presence in the European theater capable of deterring, and if required, responding to regional threats. While in theater, these personnel and aircraft will participate in multiple readiness exercises alongside NATO allies and partners to strengthen interoperability and to demonstrate U.S. commitment to the security and stability of Europe. 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Kristi Noem - | - Geronimo the alpaca, who UK health officials killed thinking he had bovine tuberculosis, might not have been sick - | - 20 years on, 9/11 mastermind still awaits Guantanamo trial - | - Medicine is an imperfect science but you can still trust its process - | - Trump's inner circle says after Afghan debacle he will run in 2024 - | - J&J Shot study shows Covid infections halved in health workers - | - U.S. probing nearly 350 reports of oil spills in wake of Hurricane Ida - | - How to protect children under 12 from Covid-19, according to Fauci - | - TikTok, live streaming, and 'creator economy' quickly changing social apps landscape - | - Relatives of MH17 victims speak of trauma in court - | - Doctors in Covid-19 are 'surprised and disappointed' at new record hospitalizations - | - Singing star Sarah Harding dies at 39 after cancer fight - | - As Donald Trump makes noise about 2024, Melania Trump tries to stay out of the public eye - | - COVID vaccine boosters: When is it time for that extra shot? Here's what we know - | - At least 46 dead after flooding overwhelms NYC, Northeast - | - States that had some of the worst Covid-19 case rates in past week also reported the highest rates of new vaccinations - | - There's now an official Trump Card design, and getting one will cost you $45 - | - British defense secretary suggests US is no longer a superpower after Afghanistan withdrawal - | - 15M Covid vaccine doses have been wasted in the U.S. since March, new data shows - | - As Biden falters, a two-man race for the 2024 GOP nomination begins to take shape - | - What Hurricane Ida Means for Louisiana's COVID-19 Problem - | - Mu COVID variant, which scientists fear is resistant to vaccines, detected in 39 countries - | - Ida left more than 1 million without power for possibly weeks, and now comes the scorching heat - | - Florida woman hospitalized with Covid returns home to find husband dead of same disease - | - Radioactive snakes could help scientists track fallout from Fukushima Disaster - | - Covid third wave could peak between Oct-Nov in India; intensity expected to be 1/4 of second wave - | - One dead, New Orleans without power as Hurricane Ida slams Louisiana - | - Fear and anticipation on the streets of Kabul as Afghans adapt to Taliban rule - | - Florida radio host 'Mr. Anti-Vax' dies of COVID-19 - | - This new antibody can stop all COVID-19 strains, including new variants, experts say - | - Biden on terror attack in Afghanistan, eviction moratorium blocked among others - | - Biden and Trump battle over what could have been in Afghanistan - | - Alone in the sky, pilot and fiancee save 17 in Tenn. flood - | - Experts find 231 million year-old fossil, ancestor to most reptiles - | - With more than 100,000 people in the hospital with Covid-19, this August is worse than last, expert says - | - Nearly two dozen San Diego, California, students and their families are stuck in Afghanistan - | - California looking to pay drug addicts to stay sober - | - Will an asteroid ever hit Earth? NASA scientist gives reassuring answer - | - Biden receives inconclusive intelligence report on covid origins - | - Why Biden will end the final mission in Afghanistan in just 7 days? - | - China wants families to have three children. But many women aren't convinced - | - Strange wasp nests glow neon green under UV light - | - Twin babies were 'swept away' in Tennessee floods that killed at least 22 - | - Kathy Hochul sworn in as 1st female New York governor; Cuomo blasts state attorney general - | - Why India's outbreak is a threat to the world - | - Suspected smuggling boat tragedy in San Diego adds to Biden's migrant crisis woes - | - Maryland votes to nix state song, a Confederate call to arms - | - Kim Janey rewrites history, Boston's first Black and female mayor - | - Gunman kills 10 at Colorado supermarket in second US mass shooting in a week - | - Kamala Harris laughs when asked if she will visit the border raises sharp criticism online - | - Roger Stone under fresh scrutiny as Capitol attack investigation intensifies - | - Vaccines will likely not be mandatory for teachers: Bidens Education Secretary - | - Fauci warns about potential for an oncoming resurgence of virus if restrictions eased - | - Biden plug relief to Americans, celebrates 'transformational' victory on COVID-19 relief - | - LA Schools to Reopen in mid-April & NY City will open high schools next week - | - Women are tired of explaining to men like Andrew Cuomo why sexual harassment is wrong - | - Biden signs orders on gender equity, nominates two women to be four-star commanders - | - Nation takes baby steps to normality after year in lockdown; "The virus isn't going to go away," says Harvard epidemiologist - | - Rumours of vaccine site giving jabs to anyone because of low demand. Hundreds lined up - | - Vaccine supply will "dramatically" increase in weeks ahead: Fauci - | - Biden calls it "Neanderthal thinking" slams Texas and Mississippi's decisions to lift COVID-19 mask mandates - | - This Is What GOP Feared. Now that Trump Has Governed with Executive Orders, Dems Plan to Do Same - | - Man Throwing 'Incendiary Devices' at ICE Detention Center Is Killed in Attack - | - Mueller Hearing Pushed Back a Week to Allow More Time for Him to Answer Questions - | - Trump Tells 4 Congresswomen of Color to 'Go Back' to 'Crime-Infested' Countries They Came From - | - GOP Congressman Invokes 'The Deep State' A couple found guilty of running a street-level drug trafficking operation out of their Virden home have both been handed two-year jail sentences. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 9/5/2019 (961 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Advertisement Advertise With Us A couple found guilty of running a street-level drug trafficking operation out of their Virden home have both been handed two-year jail sentences. Kasey Packham, 28, and Jenna Mallette, 24, were both found guilty of possession of cocaine for the purpose of trafficking, possession of proceeds obtained by crime and two counts of possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose after a trial in Brandons Court of Queens Bench earlier this year. The charges stem from an incident in February 2017, according to a police report, where Virden RCMP were called to the home and saw drugs and drug paraphernalia present when they entered. Officers executed a Controlled Drug and Substances Act warrantand seized approximately two grams of crack cocaine which was kept in a black, cardboard package labelled "crack" approximately seven grams of Psilocybin or "magic mushrooms," 12 grams of marijuana roaches in a pill bottle as well as several types of pipes and other drug paraphernalia contaminated with drug residue. They also found approximately $2,000 in Canadian cash in a black safe hidden behind a secret compartment of a dresser. The house was hooked up with a sophisticated video surveillance system with cameras pointing to the front door, the back door, the back lane and the front street. A machete and an imitation handgun were also found in plain view in the home. Dime bags of cocaine were found on Packham and Mallette when they were arrested. Mallette told police at the time that both her and Packham were drug users and that the surveillance system was because they had been robbed before. "Although this was definitely street-level and they were users at the time, there is a little bit more involved when we have individuals who set up surveillance that seem to be more organized," Crown attorney Christina Cheater told the court on Wednesday. "This wasnt a hand-to-mouth operation this was a highly sophisticated operation. They were, in fact, using, but clearly they were in the business of selling drugs." The Crown asked the court to consider two-year sentences for both accused. However, Packhams lawyer, Jennifer Janssens, asked the court to consider a sentence of 12 months and Mallettes lawyer, Bob Harrison, argued a sentence of no more than 18 months would be sufficient. Packham has come a long way since the offence, Janssens said, getting sober and finding stable employment. He also takes full responsibility for his actions and what occurred, Janssens added. "He has expressed remorse for the offences and he has insight into the impact of the drug trade on the community, specifically with respect to the small community that he was living in at the time and what type of impact that had on individuals themselves and the community at large," Janssens said. "I know that what I did was wrong and that I hurt a lot of people," Packham told the court. "Im at my best when Im working at a job and am a constructive person. Im leaps and bounds different from 2017 to right now. I just want to get back to being a normal citizen and a constructive citizen." Mallette also has acknowledged she made "terrible decisions" while an addict, Harrison said, but has also taken steps in rehabilitation. "She is making positive changes in her life," Harrison said. While acknowledging the improvements both accused have made in their lives, Justice Robert Cummings said the aggravating factors in the case could not be overlooked. "This is a classic street-level operation being run by people Mr. Packham and Ms. Mallette who were both addicted to drugs themselves. Its a situation that the courts often see," Cummings said. "What is a little unusual here, and is aggravating, is the fact that although there wasnt a large volume of drugs, there was a large volume of cash. The combination of the two whether that be more drugs and less cash, or less drugs and more cash allow one to conclude this was a this was a sophisticated operation. To corroborate that conclusion is the fact there was sophisticated surveillance equipment on the premises." Packham was sentenced to two years in jail followed by one year of supervised probation. He has a credit of 82 days for pre-sentence custody, which will be subtracted from his sentence. Mallette was also sentenced to two years in jail, minus a credit of 110 days for pre-sentence custody. Her sentence will also be followed by one year of supervised probation. Both Packham and Mallette were handed a 10-year weapons prohibition. edebooy@brandonsun.com Twitter: @erindebooy Hundreds of Canadians are about to receive proof of their personal, largely unknown links to one of the defining events of the 20th century. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 9/5/2019 (960 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Hundreds of Canadians are about to receive proof of their personal, largely unknown links to one of the defining events of the 20th century. An organization dedicated to commemorating Canada's role in the Second World War will be mailing out postcards, one of which is shown in a handout, to the former homes of soldiers who died in the first five days of the pivotal D-Day campaign, which helped secure victory for allied troops against Germany.THE CANADIAN PRESS/HO-Juno Beach Centre Association MANDATORY CREDIT Hundreds of Canadians are about to receive proof of their personal, largely unknown links to one of the defining events of the 20th century. An organization dedicated to commemorating Canada's role in the Second World War will be mailing out postcards to the former homes of soldiers who died in the first five days of the pivotal D-Day campaign, which helped secure victory for allied troops against Germany. The postcards, prepared and mailed by the Juno Beach Centre Association, will inform present-day residents about the soldier who enlisted from their address decades before. The messages will contain basic biographical details, the soldier's rank and military affiliation, and information about when and where he was killed. The commemorative project, meant to honour the 75th anniversary of the D-Day campaign, has Toronto resident Paula Monahan eagerly checking her mailbox for the document she says will serve as a tangible link to an important yet tragic part of Canada's past. "There's something very solemn about the fact that you live in a house (from where) a 22-year-old went off to battle and never came back," Monahan said in a telephone interview. "We will certainly cherish the postcard when we get it." The 22-year-old in question was Rifleman Thomas Joseph Pierce, who listed Monahan's west-Toronto address on the attestation papers he completed upon joining the armed forces. Pierce, son of Thomas and Mary Pierce, served in the second battalion of the Queen's Own Rifles of Canada prior to his death on D-Day. He was one of the estimated 156,000 British, American and Canadian troops to storm a 75-kilometre stretch of beach in northern France beginning on June 6, 1944. The 14,000 Canadian soldiers were assigned to an area dubbed Juno Beach, where they were eventually tasked with reaching a local rail line and beating back the assault from German troops. Mike Bechthold, executive director of the Juno Beach Centre Association, said the 76-day campaign exacted a high death toll from all nations involved, with 903 Canadians perishing in the first five days. Bechthold said those tasked with preparing the postcards mined attestation records from those soldiers, which are preserved in a combination of government archives and online genealogy sites. He said more than half of the addresses listed on those documents are no longer valid, replaced by new developments or rendered obsolete by changing geographical boundaries. But he said valid addresses were found in nearly 400 cases, and residents at those homes should expect to receive their postcards over the next week or two. Bechthold a historian by trade said the postcards should be seen as the letters that the slain soldiers "would have sent home if they could have." He said he hopes they will also help Canadians to connect the dots between the increasingly distant past and the lives they lead today. Monahan, for her part, intends to enlist her military buff brother to do some research and learn what he can about Pierce. Meanwhile Richard Sawyers, who expects to receive a postcard at the midtown Toronto seafood shop where he now serves as manager, is eager to take on the research himself. Lance Sgt. George Wilfred Morrison of the Queen's Own Rifles, who died on D-Day at age 27, enlisted from the address where Sawyers' workplace now stands. "I'll be straight on Google to find out more information, see if I can track him down," Sawyers said. "In Toronto everything's always very new, so a wee bit of history about the place is always very nice." When the postcard arrives, Sawyers said he plans to display it in the shop window to try and spread the word about the soldier and his connection with the neighbourhood to customers. For Bechthold, Sawyers' plan fits perfectly with the aim of the postcard project. "There's history all around us, yet it's almost like we walk around with blinders on," he said. "The people living in these houses ... have no concept of what happened there. This is an opportunity to sort of open their eyes and get them attuned to a different wavelength." Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 9/5/2019 (961 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Huawei chief financial officer Meng Wanzhou waves as she returns home after attending a court appearance in Vancouver on Wednesday May 8, 2019. The defence team for Huawei executive Meng Wanzhou says it plans to argue that she shouldn't be extradited to the United States because she hasn't violated sanctions under Canadian laws and her arrest at Vancouver's airport was unlawful. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Darryl Dyck Five stories in the news for Thursday, May 9 'YOU ARE FREE TO LEAVE': INSIDE THE NORMAN COURTROOM Vice-Admiral Mark Norman had walked up to the entrance of the Ottawa courthouse dozens of previous times over the past year, yet this time was different: This would be the last time. Like on all those other occasions, the military's former second-in-command was dressed in full uniform as he approached the courthouse's heavy glass doors with his wife Beverly and lawyers Marie Henein and Christine Mainville. Just outside the doors, he was greeted by an unexpected supporter: outgoing Liberal MP and former lieutenant-general Andrew Leslie, who was revealed just last week as a potential defence witness. AASIA BIBI ARRIVES IN CANADA: LAWYER Conservatives in Canada want the federal government and the international community to push Pakistan to address its "abhorrent misuse of blasphemy laws" after the safe arrival in Canada of a Christian woman who spent eight years on Pakistan's death row. Aasia Bibi's lawyer told The Canadian Press she arrived in Canada Tuesday morning, though he had not spoken to her before she left. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said last November that Canada was in talks with the Pakistani government about Bibi but would not comment on the case Wednesday, citing "sensitive privacy issues and security issues." HUAWEI'S MENG TO SEEK STAY OF EXTRADITION The defence team for Huawei executive Meng Wanzhou says it plans to argue that she shouldn't be extradited to the United States because she hasn't violated sanctions under Canadian laws and her arrest at Vancouver's airport was unlawful. The defence summarized arguments it plans to pursue during a hearing Wednesday at B.C. Supreme Court where key court dates were to be set for the extradition case, which has not yet begun. Her lawyers allege Meng was the victim of two "abuses of power," first by Canadian arresting authorities and then by U.S. President Donald Trump, and they plan to make an argument based on "double criminality," related to different sanction and fraud laws in the United States and Canada. TORONTO MAN WHO KILLED WIFE TO BE SENTENCED A Toronto man who brutally murdered his wife and stuffed her body in a suitcase in an effort to hide his crime is scheduled to be sentenced today. Neurosurgeon Mohammed Shamji, 43, pleaded guilty last month to second-degree murder in the death of 40-year-old Elana Fric Shamji, a well-respected family doctor. Court heard Fric Shamji served her husband with divorce papers two days before he attacked her, broke her neck and ribs, and choked her to death as their three children slept nearby. Her mother told court at Wednesday's sentencing hearing that Shamji destroyed their entire family, leaving them heartbroken and filled with rage. B.C.'S ARCHIE WINDSOR LAUGHS ABOUT ROYAL BABY LINK At first, Archie Windsor of Duncan, B.C., says he was shocked to learn he had the same last name as the newest royal, but then he saw the humour. He says his father worked in the woods all his life and his nickname was Duke. Windsor, who's 71, first heard about the connection in a conversation with his daughter in Edmonton on Wednesday. Prince Harry and Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex, named their son Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor. ALSO IN THE NEWS: The Commons justice committee hears from groups for a study about online hate. Among the groups and individuals: Canadian Anti-Hate Network, Centre culturel islamique de Quebec, National Council of Canadian Muslims, and Andrew Bennett, former head of federal office of religious freedom. Seidu Mohammed, who lost his fingers to frostbite crossing by foot into Canada to file a refugee claim, appears before the Commons finance committee on Bill C-97, an Act to implement certain provisions of the budget tabled in Parliament on March 19, 2019, and other measures. Also appearing is economist Kevin Milligan, Universities Canada and the Canadian Alliance of Student Associations. The Canada Border Services Agency, the Canadian Snowbird Association and officials from the Finance and Transport departments appear before Commons transport committee about temporary use in Canada, by Canadians, of American-plated vehicles. Google Canada's head of public policy, Colin McKay, and counsel, Jason J. Kee, appear before the Commons information, privacy and ethics committee to discuss election advertising on YouTube. TORONTO - Ontario is cutting more than $70 million from eHealth's budget ahead of a major health system merger, and millions in health research funding is drying up. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 9/5/2019 (960 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. TORONTO - Ontario is cutting more than $70 million from eHealth's budget ahead of a major health system merger, and millions in health research funding is drying up. The numbers are contained in a detailed spending plan that the government tabled Thursday following last month's budget. Though the Progressive Conservative government's overall spending package is up nearly $5 billion from the last Liberal budget, it contains cuts to a host of programs and services, as the Tories attempt to eliminate an $11.7 billion deficit. Many of those cuts were not readily apparent in the April 11 budget, but have come out in the days and weeks since, as various organizations learn of funding changes from respective ministries. They include funding reductions to public health, Legal Aid Ontario, child care funding, tourism, library services, conservation authorities and a tree planting program. Thursday's expenditure estimates for 2019-20 include a reduction of $70 million for eHealth Ontario which works on digital health programs and nearly $52 million less for health policy and research, which involves a large cut to the Health System Research Fund that contributes to research relevant to provincial policy. A spokeswoman for Health Minister Christine Elliott said there will be a "respectful wind-down period for impacted organizations." "As part of our government's commitment to direct all available resources to frontline care, we have made the decision to wind down certain research programs," Hayley Chazan said in a statement. Chazan said the cut to eHealth is related to the merger of that organization, the 14 local health integration networks, Cancer Care Ontario and several other health agencies into one super agency. The re-organization will be under a phased approach, Chazan said, and will reduce "duplicated administration." The financial figures show increased spending in several other areas of health, including substantially more money going to OHIP. Treasury Board President Peter Bethlenfalvy said the government has to reduce funding in certain areas so it can protect what matters most. "Government can't fund everything," he said. "We've made tough choices." NDP deputy leader John Vanthof said since the budget was released, the cuts have kept coming. "We already knew that the (Premier Doug) Ford Conservatives were taking things away from children, vulnerable people, students and those living in northern and rural Ontario," Vanthof said in a statement. "Since then, revelations about many more cuts that were hidden in the budget have been non-stop." TORONTO - More than two decades after Ontario started phasing out its red-and-white health cards, the government is setting a firm end date to cancel all remaining ones. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 9/5/2019 (961 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Christine Elliott, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health and Long-Term Care, announces Ontario's plan for long-term health care system in Toronto on Tuesday, February 26, 2019. More than two decades after Ontario started phasing out its red-and-white health cards, the government is setting a firm end date to cancel all remaining ones. THE CANADIAN PRESS/ Tijana Martin TORONTO - More than two decades after Ontario started phasing out its red-and-white health cards, the government is setting a firm end date to cancel all remaining ones. The province has been gradually removing them from the system and issuing residents more secure photo ID health cards since Bob Rae was premier, but now the Ministry of Health is working with ServiceOntario to set a final day after which red-and-white cards will no longer be accepted. The specific date hasn't been set, but it won't happen overnight, said Health Minister Christine Elliott. "It has been out there for a very long period of time," she said. "Some people are still hanging onto their cards, in some part, because nobody has required them to do the conversion. But in order to be responsible stewards of taxpayers' money, it's necessary to bring that process to an end." It was late 1994 when the then-NDP government announced that due to fraud and misuse, the cards that were introduced just four years prior would be phased out over three years. Twenty-five years later, there are still 400,000 in circulation, representing about three per cent of all Ontario health cards, a Ministry of Health spokesman said. Last year, ServiceOntario sent out about 27,000 final notices, telling people to convert to a photo health card or their coverage would be suspended. "This time, I think we have to send out notices with specific timelines that I'm sure people will respond to," Elliott said. When the photo ID cards were first announced, the government estimated the red-and-white cards were being used for $65 million in fraudulent claims a year. At the time, Ontario's health cards had the least amount of printed information of any province, including only a name, and no expiry date, according to a 2006 auditor general report. There were about 300,000 more health cards in circulation than there were people in Ontario, the auditor said. In the years before the photo ID cards were introduced, health officials warned that some cards had fallen into the hands of Americans and other non-residents, with fraudulent use the most prevalent in Ontario's border communities. The rate of conversions to photo ID health cards dropped off sharply by about 45 per cent when ServiceOntario took over responsibility for it from the Ministry of Health in 2008, the auditor said in a 2013 report. That year, the Liberal government announced in its budget that it would invest $15 million over three years to expedite conversions and have them all completed by 2018. At the time, about 800,000 people who still had with red-and-white cards had outdated addresses attached, and 144,000 had no address listed at all, meaning there was no way to determine if those card holders were Ontario residents, the auditor said. OTTAWA - A refugee from Ghana who lost all his fingers to frostbite crossing irregularly into Canada made an impassioned plea to MPs on Thursday to scrap proposed new asylum-seeker rules the Liberals want to turn into law. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 9/5/2019 (960 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Seidu Mohammed speaks about his refugee claim acceptance in Winnipeg, Thursday, May 18, 2017. A man from Ghana who lost all his fingers to frostbite after crossing irregularly into Manitoba - and whose story focused attention on the border - is pleading with MPs not to pass new refugee rules in the government's budget bill. THE CANADIAN PRESS/John Woods OTTAWA - A refugee from Ghana who lost all his fingers to frostbite crossing irregularly into Canada made an impassioned plea to MPs on Thursday to scrap proposed new asylum-seeker rules the Liberals want to turn into law. Seidu Mohammed's story of crossing a snow-covered field between North Dakota and Manitoba focused attention on the border in December 2016 a reason he was asked to testify before the House of Commons finance committee as it studied the proposal in the Liberals' budget bill. He avoided official border checkpoints in order to make a refugee claim in Canada after being denied in the United States. The Liberals want to change refugee laws to prevent asylum-seekers from making claims in Canada if they have made claims in certain countries, including the United States a move Border Security Minister Bill Blair says is meant to prevent "asylum-shopping." Mohammed said the rules would likely have barred his ultimately successful application if they had been in place two-and-a-half years ago. He told the committee he likely would been sent back to the United States where he would have been locked up and possibly sent back his home country. "Deporting me back to Ghana would destroy my life. I would be imprisoned or tortured to death," he told the committee. "I don't want this to happen to anybody." The Liberals' budget bill, as worded, would put more people at risk and shouldn't be passed, he said. "I'm pleading with you guys this bill should not be passed." The new rules introduced last month in the government's omnibus budget bill have become a political lightening rod for the Liberals as they face pressure from the Conservatives to better manage the border, calls from New Democrats to drop the asylum-seeker changes and charges from lawyers and advocates who decry the rules as a devastating attack on refugee rights in Canada. As multiple House of Commons committee hold hearings on the proposed rules, the government is also facing politically-charged requests from the country's most populous province for more federal money. Many of the more than 42,000 asylum-seekers have crossed into Canada "irregularly" through unofficial paths along the Canada-U.S. border since early 2017 have found their way to Toronto, Ottawa and other parts of Ontario to await the outcomes of their refugee claims, which could take up to two years due to a growing backlog of cases. To handle the costs of housing and services for those claimants, the federal government has given Toronto alone $71 million, with a further $7 million to Ottawa's municipal government. Lisa MacLeod, Ontario's minister responsible for immigration, renewed her demands Thursday for the federal government to pony up $200 million she says the feds owe the province for asylum costs. "The meagre amount of support that they have provided to our two largest municipalities falls tens of millions of dollars short. It does not cover any of the education costs, which is $20 million, it does not cover any of the social assistance costs, which is $90 million, and it falls far short for our major municipalities," she said. MacLeod argued that the federal government has sole jurisdiction over refugee resettlement and should provide the province not just some cities with compensation for the millions in costs incurred. Blair pinned the blame back on the Ontario government, telling reporters the Ford government refuses to negotiate directly with the federal government, which is why his department has instead been going directly to cities like Toronto and Ottawa for funding arrangements. "Historically when people came to Ontario seeking refuge ... municipalities have stood together and worked together to provide the necessary supports," Blair said. "Unfortunately the province of Ontario has chosen to abrogate their responsibilities and step out of that role, but the job still needs to be done." Follow @ReporterTeresa on Twitter. TORONTO - Elana Fric Shamji stayed with her abusive husband for more than a decade, despite her mother's pleas to leave the volatile relationship with her three young children in tow. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 9/5/2019 (960 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. TORONTO - Elana Fric Shamji stayed with her abusive husband for more than a decade, despite her mother's pleas to leave the volatile relationship with her three young children in tow. Now, Ana Fric hopes her daughter's brutal death at the hands of her spouse just two days after she filed for divorce will prompt others to act before it's too late. Dr. Mohammed Shamji and Dr. Elana Fric-Shamji are shown in this image from Fric-Shamji's facebook page. A Toronto man who murdered his wife two days after she filed for divorce has been sentenced to life in prison with no chance of parole for 14 years. Neurosurgeon Mohammed Shamji, 43, pleaded guilty last month to second-degree murder in the death of 40-year-old Elana Fric Shamji, a well-respected family doctor. THE CANADIAN PRESS/HO-Facebook MANDATORY CREDIT "I want to talk about the domestic violence that she endured for 12 years before she died, in the hope that other women in similar circumstances will realize that unless they have the courage to leave their partners at an early stage, they could suffer the same fate as Elana," Fric said Thursday outside a Toronto court. Moments earlier, Fric Shamji's husband, who pleaded guilty to second-degree murder, was sentenced to life in prison with no chance of parole for 14 years. Court heard that Mohammed Shamji, a renowned neurosurgeon, killed his physician wife at their home on Nov. 30, 2016. He then stuffed her body into a suitcase, drove 35 kilometres north of the city and dumped it into the Humber River. Fric Shamji, 40, was reported missing by her mother, who said she feared the worst after not receiving her daily phone call from her daughter. Shamji's abuse began early in the couple's relationship, according to Fric, as well as numerous friends who gave statements cited in court documents. Fric said she learned of the assaults not long after the couple's first child, who is now 14, was born. "She told me that Mo had assaulted her and threatened her life and that of her young baby," Fric said. "I begged her to leave and to lay criminal charges." Court documents show Fric Shamji told a friend at the time that her husband had "threatened to throw the baby in the river." The couple separated for a few months, with Fric Shamji's father moving to Ottawa to help her raise the baby, court heard. After a time, the pair reconciled. Fric said Shamji's abuse was emotional as well as physical. "Even in my presence, he would call her insulting and vulgar names and belittle her," she said. "She felt worthless in his eyes." Fric said she told her daughter to leave over and over again, but her pleas went unheeded. The couple moved to Toronto in 2012 and the relationship improved for a time, Fric said, but that didn't last. "Elana did not even have a bank account in her own name," she said of her daughter, who was a successful family doctor and respected in the health policy field. "He completely controlled every aspect of the family's lives, and was a tyrant." Shamji also choked her during an argument until she passed out, Fric said, and sexually assaulted his wife in October 2016 a month before she filed for divorce. "She told me that until that time she had thought it was best for the children for her to continue to stay with him, but that she finally realized that in fact it was best for the children for her to leave Mo," Fric said. Shamji's lawyer, Liam O'Connor, said he did not want to comment on Fric's statements. "I will not debate the facts today with a woman who has lost a child," he said in an email. "Ana Fric deserves some semblance of peace." Justice John McMahon called the murder "extremely tragic." "It is also yet another case of domestic homicide that we see far too often in this court," he said. "Another group of children left without their mom, a spouse convicted." Det. Sgt. Andy Singh, who led the investigation into the case, called domestic murders the "most heinous and serious crimes," and urged the public to take action if they suspect a loved one is being abused. "It's very important as adults, as citizens, that if we recognize abuse or recognize somebody going through it, you need to speak to authorities and you need to bring it to somebody's attention who will bring action," he said. Amanda Dale, the director of Feminist Alliance for International Action, said intimate partner violence is the most common form of violence. "It's not restricted to any particular demographic, any particular ethnicity, any particular religion, or any particular economic class," she said. Dale noted, however, that in the more than three decades she's worked in the gender-based violence field, she's seen that women from upper-class households had the most difficult time seeking help. Not because of structural barriers, but because of class anxiety. "They were expected to reflect perfection," she said. "Their husbands held incredible social power, and often social charisma, that allowed them to maintain a public face that was impossible for (the women) to betray because they would not be believed." with files from Michelle McQuigge. Toronto police say they've busted a multimillion-dollar drug ring that stretched from the city to parts of southwestern Ontario. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 9/5/2019 (961 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Toronto police say they've busted a multimillion-dollar drug ring that stretched from the city to parts of southwestern Ontario. They say they executed 29 search warrants in Toronto, Vaughan, Kitchener, and Stoney Creek and arrested eight people. Police say they also seized 29 kilograms of cocaine, 700 kilograms of ephedrine which is a precursor for the production of crystal methamphetamine and 20 kilograms of a substance used as a cutting agent in cocaine. They say they also found more than $300,000 of cash along with nearly 4,000 marijuana plants. The eight people arrested face a variety of charges related to drug trafficking and the proceeds of crime. A report by the Revenue on surging corporation tax revenues has re-sparked political concerns that Government spending relies too much on once-off revenue bounties. A small handful of foreign-owned multinationals account for the bulk of the corporation tax receipts collected by the Government, the Revenue report again shows. That corporation tax receipts account for almost a fifth of all tax receipts the Government collected in 2018 is well known, but the Revenue analysis adds new details. It shows that over a third of the 2.2bn increase in corporation tax revenues in 2018 was due to once-off reasons 350m of the increase comes from changes to a global accounting standard, and a further 350m of the increase, it believes, is also once-off in nature. The 10 largest payers accounted for over 4.6bn, or 45% of the 10.4bn paid in corporation tax last year, up from an already high share of 39% in 2017, the analysis shows. And multinationals accounted for over three quarters of all corporation tax receipts, according to the Revenue report. It said it has drawn up three new categories of payers, including Irish-owned multinationals, foreign-owned multinationals, and non-multinationals. However, the top payers are not named by the Revenue report or have ever been identified by the Department of Finance or any other government agency, which have long cited confidentiality reasons. The Government has been repeatedly warned by economists, including the Irish Fiscal Advisory Council and the Economic and Social Research Institute, against relying on funding day-to-day and capital spending programmes on potential unsustainable sources of taxation such as corporation tax. Finance Minister Paschal Donohoe last year injected 700m in a supplementary budget to cover overspending in the day-to-day health budget. Opposition parties said that the Revenue report heightens their concerns. Making permanent expenditure commitments on the back of receipts that may prove to be temporary is a risk we need to avoid, Fianna Fail finance spokesperson Michael McGrath said. Sinn Feins Pearse Doherty said the over-reliance on corporation tax receipts for day-to-day spending despite the multitude of warnings is completely reckless. The chairman of the Revenue Commissioners, Niall Cody, said the finance minister doesnt want to rely on corporation tax to fund spending. Anything that jumps like that, if theres a drop, the Government has to be prudent, he told RTE Radio. The owner of Cadbury is looking to lay off 70 staff at its Dublin production plant. Mondelez Ireland will meet with trade unions early next week to discuss concerns over the planned redundancies. Ulster Bank is expected to sell off more non-performing loans in order to reach a European Central Bank target. Representatives from the bank are appearing before the Committee on Finance, Public Expenditure and Reform today. Ulster Bank CEO Jane Howard admitted that more work needs to be done to bring down its number of non-performing loans. She says it is expected that the loans will be sold off by the end of this year. However, Ms Howard said the ECB target of reducing the stock of bad loans to 5% will not be reached until next year. She said that the bank has reduced its stock of non-performing loans to 10% and that they are "committed to rebuilding trust with our customers and with Irish society". The bank said 297m has been set aside split "roughly 50-50" between operational costs and paying redress to customers affected by the tracker mortgage scandal. Chief Financial Officer Paul Stanley says about 120m has been paid out to customers as of the end of March. Sinn Fein's Finance Spokesperson Pearse Doherty accused Ulster Bank of feeding their customers "to the vultures". He told Ms Howard: "You know fine well that these were non-performing loans, that doesn't mean they weren't being paid, it means they (customers) weren't able to pay their full amount, it means they were in arrears. "The idea of any bank saying 'clear your arrears within 30 days or we are taking your property' is absolute madness, and that's what you've done to 2,200 customers," he said. You can watch the committee live here: Update 10.25am: Justice Minister Charlie Flanagan has launched a new media campaign questioning people's attitudes to sexual harassment. The campaign, entitled 'No Excuses', will run for three years to 2021. The campaign will operate across TV, radio, outdoor, social and digital advertising. The Minister said research has shown that Ireland has "disturbingly high levels" of sexual harassment and sexual violence. Earlier: 26% more sex crimes reported to gardai in 2018 Update 7.40am: The number of sex crimes reported to the gardai increased by 26% last year. This morning the government will launch a new national awareness campaign aimed at tackling sexual violence and harassment. "No Excuses" will feature ads on TV, radio, cinema and social media, showing different scenarios in a bid to get people to think about their behaviour. CEO of the Dublin Rape Crisis Centre, Noeline Blackwell, says the campaign is much needed. "The State, while they might put laws in place, has trouble highlighting how our society needs to change," she said. This new campaign has the potential to raise the awareness in all of our society around the harm that is done by sexual harassment and other forms of sexual violence. Digital Desk Anastasia Kriegel died from blunt force trauma to the head or from compression of the neck and suffered "a very horrific death", a pathologist has told the trial of the two boys accused of her murder. Former State Pathologist Professor Marie Cassidy said some of the more than 50 injury sites she noted on the 14-year-old's body could have been defensive wounds. The most severe injuries were to the head and neck and she detailed four separate impacts to the right side of the head which were consistent with being struck with a "small, fairly heavy object or the corner of something bigger". Other injuries to the face were consistent with being struck by something large, long and fairly heavy, she said. The accused, who are both 14, cannot be named because they are minors. They have each pleaded not guilty to murdering Anastasia at Glenwood House, Laraghcon, Clonee Road, Lucan on 14 May last year. Boy A is further charged with the 14-year-olds aggravated sexual assault in a manner that involved serious violence to her. He has also pleaded not guilty to that count. Professor Cassidy told Brendan Grehan SC for the prosecution that Ana died from blunt force trauma to the head or compression of the neck. She had injuries to the hands and arms that could have been defensive. There was also evidence of attempted penetration of the vagina. She said Ana may have been unconscious at this time but she also couldn't say if the attempt was consensual or not. She said Ana did not appear to have been sexually active previously. Under cross-examination, Prof Cassidy agreed with Damien Colgan SC for Boy B that Ana suffered a "very horrific death" and that anyone who witnessed what happened to her would be traumatised. She told Patrick Gageby SC for Boy A that the injuries in the pelvic area were consistent with injuries you would expect to see in a young, inexperienced person having consensual sex. She also agreed there was no evidence that tape found wrapped around Ana's neck was used as a "ligature". The trial continues in front of Justice Paul McDermott and a jury of eight men and four women. The Attorney General is examining whether recent High Court judgements on CervicalCheck will have a wider impact on the HSE. It comes amid reports that the US lab that was found to have negligently read Ruth Morrissey's smear test is considering appealing the judgement. The largest public sector trade union in the country says it has no problem with the civil service embracing technology to improve its services - provided it does not lead to job losses. Forsas Civil Service Division Conference in Kilkenny heard that new forms of work organisation at Revenue, which was supported by re-training, had increased the tax take and improved audit and fraud control rather than cutting jobs. Derek Mullen, head of Forsas Civil Service Division said the union would not oppose the introduction of new technologies like artificial intelligence. But technological advancement should not be at the cost of services or jobs, he said. Mr Mullen pointed to the positive experience of Revenue, where new forms of work organisation, supported by re-training, had increased the tax take and improved audit and fraud control rather than cutting jobs. We will support properly thought-out automation, controlled by workers and managers whose aim will be the continued enhancement and delivery of public services. Citizens do not want to talk to machines, he said. In a submission presented to the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform earlier this year, Forsa argued for steps to ensure that new recruits are equipped to thrive in increasingly-automated work environments and that older workers should get help to adapt. Meanwhile, the unions Local Government and Local Services divisional conference heard a presentation from Dr Mary Murphy of Maynooth University whose research has found that 8% of Irish public spending occurs at local government level, compared to an EU average of more than 23%. Dr Mary Murphy. Dr Murphy said Irish councils have fewer functions than their European counterparts, which has a negative effect on a number of aspects of public life, including environmental protection. Local government can be an important source of economic development and local jobs, while local authorities across Europe are playing a leading role in transitioning to low-carbon renewable energy. "We need to rebuild Irish local democracy and citizen participation to build strong local economies based on good jobs and decent incomes, and to address climate change, she said. Economist John Fitzgerald has said that the Government should go back and look at the broadband plan again. The original contract was too complex in its nature which was why other bidders had withdrawn from the process, he said. The State just didnt want the risk, he told RTE radios Morning Ireland. He said that running a cable up the side of a road can be quantified, but what cannot be quantified is how many will take up a service. A private contractor would not know how many customers will take up a service so they needed to factor that in. The Government feels the need to deliver for rural Ireland so they had made a political decision, he said. Yes they know that this is bad value, but they feel politically they need to do it. He added that it was up to civil servants to provide advice and it is up to the political system to say they have other considerations. This was a common occurrence but what was unusual in this case was the size of the project. Professor Fitzgerald also warned that as technology is changing other cheaper alternatives could become available. It was a mistake to commit to providing fibre for every home in rural Ireland, he said. It may be over engineering. Instead they should be asking what kind of broadband width do you need? How would you meet that need? That could be met in another way. A High Court judge is to consider if certain information contained in 10 documents given by the FAI to the Office of Director of Corporate Enforcement is legally privileged or not. The materials which the FAI claims are privileged includes legal advice it received from its Interim CEO Ms Rea Walshe, who is a qualified solicitor and is described as the FAI's internal legal advisor. The material is contained in the minutes of several meetings of the association's board of management held between February 2016 and March 2019. The items include legal advice it received from Ms Walshe in February 2016 over an agreement with a prospective sponsor, and in November that year of the FAI's potential liability over possible and ongoing legal actions against it. It also seeks to have legal advice it received regarding an internal investigation and the rights of affected parties to bring appeals to the Court of Arbitration for Sport in June 2017. Other matters it seeks to claim privilege over are legal advice from Ms Walshe regarding disciplinary matters in December 2017 and legal advice concerning an application from one of its members concerning an application for a licence in January 2018. Privilege is claimed over legal advice it received in February 2018 over a strategy to meet a potential injunction by a third party, and over legal advice concerning a complaint regarding a member organisation in April 2018. The FAI further claims privilege over material put before board meetings in February and March 2019 from Ms Walshe concerning its litigation strategy in a matter before CAS, and over an entitlement of a third party to evidence relating to a matter under investigation by the association. Ms Justice Leonie Reynolds, who will determine if the material is legally privileged or not, was today provided with the documents which the FAI claims privilege over. An issue in the case which the Judge has sought clarification over is whether Ms Walshe can be considered as the association's internal legal advisor. This is because of the number of different titles Ms Walshe has held with the association, including company secretary since she was appointed as the FAI's head of Legal and Licensing in 2014. The FAI, represented by Shane Murphy SC, says despite holding the different roles Ms Walshe has worked principally as a legal advisor to the association and provided legal advice to it on a range of issues. The ODCE, represented by Elva Duffy Bl, says that there is insufficient evidence before the court that Ms Walshe was qualified to give legal advice to the association at the relevant meetings given that she had different titles with the FAI. The Judge, who said the issue could be a red herring, asked if Ms Walsh continues to be the FAI's legal advisor after she became company secretary, or if another person had taken up that role. The Judge also suggested that in aid of the application the ODCE's lawyers be allowed to inspect the documents at the centre of the application. The judge adjourned the matter to Tuesday to allow the sides to make further submissions on the application. The ODCE application, made under the 2014 Companies Act against the FAI, comes as part of its probe into "certain matters" concerning the association. The material was provided by the FAI to the ODCE last week. The FAI claims privilege over certain contents of 10 documents it has provided to the ODCE. It claims that it has made the claim in respect of limited passages of the documents in order to protect the FAI's position against third parties and not the ODCE. On April 19 last, the ODCE issued a notification requiring the FAI to hand over copies of books and documents. The documents sought include the minutes of all meetings of the FAI Board of Directors and Committees of the board for the period January 1, 2016, to March 21, 2019, inclusive. On Wednesday, May 1, the FAI produced the required documentation, as well as the material the FAI claims is legally privileged. The integrity of that material has been maintained. A long-running campaign to get a posthumous medal for an IRA Volunteer has finally come to a successful conclusion. Joe Murphy, whose story is little known outside of Cork, died on hunger strike in Cork Gaol on the same day, October 25, 1920, as Terence MacSwiney, then Lord Mayor of Cork, who also died from hunger strike, but in Brixton Prison. The scene outside Cork County Jail during the Republican hunger strike in October 1920. His father, Timothy Murphy, requested a pension as recognition for Joes Volunteer service as early as May 1, 1923, but was denied this from the Department of Defence. However, at some later point, Timothy was granted a gratuity payment of 75. The requests for recognition of his Volunteer service continued from his wife, Nora Murphy, after the death of her husband. Further family requests were made up to 1954, but again proved unfruitful. In recent times the family persisted again and eventually the Minister with responsibility for Defence, Paul Kehoe, announced that the family would receive a 1917-1921 Service Medal in recognition of Murphy's service to the State. It was presented tonight to members of the extended Murphy family at a reception in City Hall hosted by Lord Mayor Cllr Mick Finn. Murphy was born in Massachusetts to Irish parents who subsequently returned to their native Cork when he was a young child. He joined the Volunteers in 1917 and became a member of H Company, 2nd Battalion, Cork No.1 Brigade. He was involved in several attacks on British military posts and a well-publicised attack on Farran RIC barracks. He was arrested by British forces on July 15, 1920, and was imprisoned. Murphy was among a group of 60 prisoners who went on hunger strike when their political status was taken away from them and regular newspaper articles would cover the condition of the men. On October 8, Joe Murphy and the others on hunger strike in Cork Gaol wrote a letter to MacSwiney in Brixton expressing solidarity with him and urging him to hold fast. British prime minister Lloyd George was asked to show mercy to the prisoners. Instead, he said they were hastening their own deaths by refusing food. A further appeal was made for Murphy to stand formal trial for the possession of a bomb, the charge on which he was imprisoned. However, it was denied by the British authorities on the basis that he wasnt in a proper condition due to his hunger strike. Murphys condition deteriorated sharply in the meantime and he couldnt even drink water. On October 17, Commandant Fitzgerald died and eight days later so did Murphy, in the presence of family and friends. A plaque was erected to his memory at his family home in Pouladuff and some years later the then Cork Corporation named a road after him in Ballyphehane. The commemorative plaque at the house of hunger striker Joe Murphy at Ballyphehane, Cork. Fiona Hennessy, whose mother, Ann O'Sullivan, is a niece of Joe Murphy, said the entire family is delighted with the special reception in City Hall "and needless to say, very proud about the awarding of the medal". "That he's finally being rewarded with an official service medal of honour is just and right and credit to his family for pursuing it for almost a century. It means his memory and place in history will live on even more," Cllr Finn said. The ceremony was attended by senior military personnel, including Defence Forces Chief of Staff, Vice Admiral Mark Mellett. A father-of-one died from a stab wound which penetrated the left side of his chest to a depth of over 25cm, a murder trial has heard. The jury also heard that the level of force involved in the stab wound was moderate and the deceased's left arm had to be raised in order for this wound to be inflicted. Deputy State Pathologist, Dr Michael Curtis, today gave evidence in the Central Criminal Court trial of Inga Ozolina. Ms Ozolina (48), originally from Latvia, but with an address at Old Court Church, Mounthrath, Co Laois has pleaded not guilty to murdering her boyfriend Audrius Pukas (40) at The Malthouse, Roscrea, Co Tipperary, on November 20, 2016. The trial has previously heard that the accused and deceased were in a tempestuous and volatile relationship which was violent at times and the prosecution contends there is no question of self-defence in the case. Evidence has also been given that Ms Ozolina went to a garda station in the early hours of the morning and said that she had killed her boyfriend, telling a garda: I stabbed him. I pushed the knife into him, come quick". Dr Curtis told prosecution counsel Paul Murray SC that he did not attend the scene but had examined Mr Pukas' body at University Hospital Limerick. The witness testified that the deceased was found lying on his back in a downstairs bedroom at The Malthouse and was wearing only his underpants at the time. He was six foot in height and had a muscular build, he explained. In his evidence, Dr Curtis said that part of Mr Pukas' face was blood-stained, as were his upper limbs, the left side of his trunk and his front left thigh. There were three stab wounds to Mr Pukas' body and it was not possible to determine which had occurred first, remarked Dr Curtis. The first stab wound was situated on the left side of the deceased's chest, 5cm below his armpit, he explained, adding that it was 18.5cm to the left of his midline. The anterior border of the wound was of "sharp contour", he said, indicating that a blade with a single cutting edge had been used. The blade had wounded the rib cage area, the left lung, the heart, the aortic valve, the left main coronary artery and the aorta, he outlined. The total depth of the wound was 25.5cm and as a result there was a massive collection of blood in the left chest cavity and into the sack around the heart. Death would have ensued rapidly from this wound, he added. Dr Curtis said he found a second stab wound to the left side of Mr Pukas' chest and it was located 11.5cm below the left armpit. The wound was "very superficial" and looked like it was caused by the pointed edge of a knife, he said, adding that it did not penetrate the muscle. The third stab wound was situated on the outer aspect of the right upper arm and was 14cm below the right shoulder, noted Dr Curtis. The depth of the wound was 13cm and there was no injury to the upper arm bone. The first stab wound was fatal in nature, indicated the witness. The court also heard that the deceaseds body had numerous abrasions and bruises consistent with him being involved in a fracas. Mr Pukas also had extensive reddish bruising to the right side of his face and there was bruising to his lower lip which could have been caused by a minor blow to the region of the mouth, he said. The deceased may have remained mobile for a short period of time after sustaining his injuries, he said. In conclusion, Dr Curtis said Mr Pukas cause of death was a stab wound to the chest. A toxicology report showed there was modest levels of alcohol in his blood and urine, he said. Under cross-examination by Caroline Biggs SC, defending, Dr Curtis agreed that the numerous bruises and abrasions to Mr Pukas body could have occurred immediately prior to the incident or in one or more stages leading up to this event. Dr Curtis also agreed with counsel that Mr Pukas had a history of atopic eczema and severe eczema can lead to scratching of the skin. The Deputy State Pathologist further agreed that Mr Pukas could have made his way from an upstairs kitchen to a downstairs bedroom following the stabbing. Ms Biggs put it to the witness that her client said in interviews with gardai that she had tried to engage in First Aid and there was nothing that could confirm or deny that. Yes, replied Dr Curtis. The witness also agreed with the defence counsel that individually the abrasions and bruises were trivial in nature as they were surface injuries with no internal damage. Bruising to the deceaseds right ring knuckle was consistent with a blow having been struck, the court heard. Dr Curtis accepted that the first stab wound could have occurred very quickly and involved very rapid movements. The level of force was moderate and the left arm had to be raised in order for this wound to be inflicted, he concluded. The trial continues tomorrow afternoon before Mr Justice Alexander Owens and a jury of seven men and five women. There was a surge last year in the amount of cocaine, heroin, cigarettes and illegal alcohol seized by Customs. Revenue's annual report for 2018 said it uncovered the first counterfeit cigarette factory in the State last year in which over 23m cigarettes and 71 tonnes of tobacco were seized. Revenue figures show that 195kgs of cocaine and heroin were seized in 2018, compared to 27kgs in 2017 with the street value increasing from 2.2m to almost 17m. There was a rise in the seizure of amphetamines, ecstasy and other substances from 565kgs (2.9m) to 1.28 tonnes (7.6m). But there was a major drop in the quantity of cannabis seized down from 3.1 tonnes to 512kgs. This meant the overall amount of drugs seized fell from 3.7 tonnes in 2017 to 1.99 tonnes in 2018, with the overall value down from almost 60 million to 33.5m. Seizures in individual years can be skewed by very large, or even freak, seizures. The number of seizures is often seen as a better indicator, with a total of 7,174 drug seizures in 2018, compared to 6,064 in 2017. Heroin seized in Kilkenny last October. The figures also show a significant rise in the quantity of smuggled or illicit cigarettes, from 34m in 2017 to almost 68m in 2018, with the value increasing from 19m to 41m. In March 2018, Revenue and other agencies seized 23m cigarettes (and 71 tonnes of tobacco) from the country's first counterfeit cigarette factory in Jenkinstown, Co Louth. Revenue estimated the factory was capable of producing a further 71m cigarettes. The finished and potential product had a potential value of almost 50m. The report said there was an increase in the number of larger seizures of illicit alcohol at the main ports, with the amount being seized jumping by 165%, from 95,000 litres in 2017 to over 252,000 litres in 2018. One of the 32 joint operations with the Garda Drugs and Organised Crime Bureau was a cross-border investigation involving the British National Crime Agency and the PSNI. The operation, codenamed Skunk Tank, resulted in the seizure of 66kgs of cannabis resin at Dublin Port and the related arrest of five people in Northern Ireland. There were 450 detections of suspected counterfeit goods worth more than 3m, most of them consigned from China or Turkey. There were 78 cash seizures (value 1m) in 2018, relating to cash suspected of being the proceeds of, or intended for use in, criminal activity. There were just under 24,000 suspicious transactions reports from financial institutions and other bodies under anti-money laundering legislation. The report said evidence indicated its measures to combat fuel laundering had been very effective. The jurors in Ana Kriegels murder trial have heard that the schoolgirl had over 50 injuries when her body was found last May. Two teenage boys are accused of murdering her in a derelict farmhouse in Lucan, Dublin. One of them is further charged with violently sexually assaulting the 14-year-old. Before former State Pathologist, Professor Marie Cassidy, was called to present the findings of her examination of Anas body, the jurors were told an application to excuse the boys from attending during her evidence had been granted by the judge. Professor Cassidy said she went to the derelict farmhouse where Ana was found before the body was removed for a post-mortem. Her impression was that she had suffered severe injuries in the area closest to the doorway before being moved to a part of the room that was better lit. She said she had dirt and dust all over her naked body and a strip of material was loosely around her neck. The evidence suggested she was dead for several hours if not longer, she said. She said most of her injuries were confined to the head and neck area. She had a large injury to the left side of her face and there was evidence of asphyxia or compression of the neck, possibly from strangulation, she said. So far she has outlined over 50 injuries to Anas body. The Citizens Assembly is being urged to convene to reform local authorities across the country. Ireland's largest public sector union, Forsa, wants the assembly to discuss how councils are funded, as it claims only 8% of public spending occurs at local level here, compared to an EU average of over 23%. The country's largest public sector union says a referendum is urgently needed to ensure Irish Water stays in State ownership. Forsa says it is deeply concerned that over 3,000 local authority staff could be transferred to a single utility company and wants politicians to commit to a national vote. The majority of motions at Forsa's conference in Kilkenny today deal with the future of Irish Water. They want a referendum to make sure it stays in State ownership, and they want guarantees that the government won't move some 3,000 council staff over to the single utility company. Peter Nolan, Head of the local government division with Forsa, says his members are worried about what has happened in other European countries: "The drive for the referendum is to avoid the experiences we've seen in Greece with private ownership and we've seen across the water in England what happens when you put water into private control," he said. The call for water services to be protected in the constitution dominates the majority of motions at today's programme of events at the Forsa conference. Delegates, who represent over 30,000 civil servants and council staff, will also discuss reforming local authorities, as they claim Ireland is the Cinderella of local government across Europe. A 36-year-old Irishman has been killed in a horror 11 car pile-up in Sydney. The victim, who has not yet been named, was on his way to work when his vehicle was hit by a truck. The Irish national was working as a tradesman and lived in the Wentworthville area of the city. The Irish consulate in Sydney has confirmed they are offering consular assistance to the victims family following the incident. Police have made an appeal for a driver who they said left the scene of the fatal crash which happened on the M4 motorway in West Sydney at 5.50am this morning. Emergency services remain at the scene of a multi-vehicle crash on the M4 citybound at Mays Hill about 5.50am, in which one person has died. monitor https://t.co/exN4TmGlhv for updates NSW Police Force (@nswpolice) May 8, 2019 While investigators are not suggesting the driver of the unknown vehicle caused the crash, they do believe they may have information which may clarify the circumstances surrounding the incident. Five people were taken to hospital for treatment following the crash and all drivers underwent mandatory drug and alcohol testing. Crash Investigation Unit Commander, Inspector Katie Orr, said police wanted to speak with the driver of the 11th vehicle to find out what they may have seen at the time of the crash. We want to speak with this driver to find what they know about the events leading up to the crash, Inspector Orr said. We also want to speak with any drivers who may have witnessed the crash and left the area or have relevant dash-cam footage. All citybound lanes have now re-opened after more than five hours of disruption and a 15-kilometre long tailback. Children in Dublin 15 have seen men with guns less than 100 yards from their school gate. That's according to Labour TD Joan Burton who is calling for more resources for the area. A High Court judge has made an order preventing a 'business consultant' acting as a legal advisor in court cases. The order was made by Ms Justice Leonie Reynolds today in respect of Mr Eamon O'Neill, who the judge said is now barred from acting as what is known as a 'McKenzie friend'- persons who advise lay litigants participating in court proceedings. The judge said that despite having no legal qualifications Mr O'Neill had purported to give bad legal advice to defendants who were in a dispute with a receiver over a commercial property in Waterford and whom the court had made orders against. Previously the Judge had described a letter sent to various parties, including the Gardai, by Mr O'Neill as "scurrilous" and contained averments about what had occurred when the matter was before the court that were simply not true. Last April, Mr O'Neill apologised to the court for what was contained in the letter. The Judge adjourned the case to today when she directed Mr O'Neill to attend with a legal representative to answer what she said was his alleged contempt. When the matter returned before the judge she said Mr O'Neill had failed to attend. A new letter was handed into the court on Mr O'Neill's behalf stating why he could not attend court, which the Judge said she did not accept. "He thinks he is above the law," the Judge said, adding that she was giving him one more chance and that he would have to appear before the court next Thursday. The Judge said when the matter returns before the court Mr O'Neill may apply to have the order barring him from advising litigants lifted. Ms Justice Reynolds made the order against Mr O'Neill in a case where the court had previously granted a fund appointed a receiver, Mr Ken Fennell, possession of a commercial property in Co. Waterford. The action was brought against Paddy Early, Killea, Dunmore East, Co. Waterford and Paul Kearney, Islandtarsney, Fenor, Co. Waterford, who are the owners of the property. During the proceedings, the court heard Mr O'Neill with an address at The Quays, Waterford, had acted as a business consultant for the owners and CMD Early, Dunmore East Ltd. That company had previously alleged it had an agreement with the owners to occupy the premises. Lawyers for Mr Fennell had sought a vacant possession order after it claimed it was unable to take charge or access the property, and that the defendants were trespassers. After finding the defendants had no defence to the receivers claim the Judge granted the receiver an order for possession but put a stay on the order to allow the occupants time to find a new premises. Today, the judge agreed to extend the stay to allow the company, which very recently obtained the services of a solicitor, bring a motion seeking to have the possession order set aside. The judge also directed Mr Early and Mr Kearney to swear an affidavit setting out what they had paid Mr O'Neill for his advice, which they agreed to do. In his action, Mr Fennell claimed that Mr Early and Mr Kearney were advanced some 2.29m by Ulster Bank in 2008, for which the property was put up as security. The loan fell into arrears in 2011 and Promontoria Aran Ltd acquired the loan in 2015. Mr Fennell was appointed as receiver over the property in 2016. A Limerick man whose conviction for the rape of a woman in her home was quashed last year has been jailed for 12 years for the same offence. The Central Criminal Court heard that the attack by Alan Hanley (38) of no fixed abode came to an end when the woman ran semi-naked from the house and in a very distressed condition. In 2015, after a second trial, Ms Justice Deirdre Murphy had sentenced Hanley to 12 and a half years imprisonment. Last June, he successfully appealed his conviction over the trial judges failure to give the jury a corroboration warning. During a third trial at the Central Criminal Court earlier this year, Hanley again pleaded not guilty to three counts of rape at a house in the city on the night of May 4/5 2012. He had previously admitted assaulting the woman causing her harm on the same occasion. After seven hours of deliberations, a jury of three women and nine men returned a majority verdict of guilty on one count of raping the woman. The jury failed to agree verdicts on the two other counts of rape. Mr Justice Alex Owens backdated the 12 year prison sentence to May 5, 2012, the day he first went into custody on this matter. 'Hosed her down' During the trial, the jury heard testimony that the attack ended when Hanley went upstairs to turn off a smoke alarm that had been activated because he was burning cut-up pieces of a rug on which he had ejaculated. The woman, who was naked at this time, placed a towel and a throw around her and ran out of the house. A passer by saw her and the alarm was raised. Hanley and the woman had met some weeks before the attack and there was a sexual element to their relationship. They had a serious falling out two nights before the attack. On the night in question, he went to her house and began punching and kicking her when she answered the door, she said. He continued to attack her while she was lying in a ball by the fireplace. He then tore all her clothes off and raped her on the rug before dragging her by her hair into a shower where he hosed her down, she told the jury. She said she tried to escape but he caught her and raped her a second time and dragged her into the shower again. She alleged he then dragged her downstairs and raped her a third time. The jury failed to agree verdicts on rape charges brought in relation to these allegations. The State has entered nolle prosequi on these. Mr Justice Owens said he had to consider the danger of post release sexual re-offending and ordered that the man be under the supervision of the Probation Service for six years post release. He also ordered that the man complete a sex offenders course if deemed suitable. Hanley stood up in court and said he would not comply with this order, and shouted You have no evidence, so go fuck yourself. Fuck you and your court. 'A lesson she would never forget' Mr Justice Owens said the case was aggravated by the home invasion, the prolonged period of violence, the effect on the victim, the damage to her home and property and the man's history of offending. He said the man had been annoyed by a falling out with the woman over the previous two days and that he set off for her apartment to teach her a lesson she would never forget. He said it was difficult to see any mitigating factors and that there was no remorse shown. Mr Justice Owens also ordered that the man make no attempt to contact the victim or her family. At his appeal last July, Michael Bowman SC said it was the class of case which required a corroboration warning due to inconsistencies in the complainants evidence, and contrary accounts she had given between both trials. A corroboration warning was given to the jury in his first trial, which ultimately resulted in a disagreement. Mr Bowman said the fact another court had given the warning endorsed the argument that it should have been given in the retrial. Mr Justice Birmingham said the Court of Appeal had concluded that the trial judge erred in not providing a warning, in the circumstances of this case. He said the court could not be convinced that this did not affect the outcome of the trial. A man is set to appear in court tomorrow in connection with a fatal fire in Cavan last year. A 59-year-old man, Oliver Murray, died in the house fire in Derrylurgan, Ballyjamesduff at around 3am on August 2, 2018. Three men jailed for violent burglaries in rural county Limerick seven years ago have launched appeals against their convictions. Patrick Roche, (aged 54) and his son Philip Roche (aged 25), both with addresses at Kilcronan, Clondalkin in Dublin, as well as Patrick Roches son-in-law Alan Freeman (aged 38) from Pearse Park, Tipperary Town, were found guilty of aggravated burglary and false imprisonment following a trial at Limerick Circuit Criminal Court. The Circuit Court heard that Patrick and Philip Roche broke into the isolated home of elderly siblings Willie, Nora, and Chrissie Creed near Pallasgreen, Co Limerick, in May 2012. The Roches tied up Mr Creed and his sisters, aged in their 70s, before assaulting them, leaving them covered in blood. Willie Creed was stabbed in the head with a screwdriver before the Roches fled with 5,000 in cash. Six weeks earlier, the Roches along with Alan Freeman, broke into the home of the Gerry and Anne Garvey in Pallasgreen, Co. Limerick. The gang tied up Mr and Mrs Garvey, and their four children, and assaulted them. They threatened Mr Garvey at gunpoint, before fleeing with a sum of cash. The three men were found guilty of the offences, having denied the charges. Patrick Roche was jailed for 17 years, Philip Roche 15 years and Freeman 14 years by Judge John Hannan on November 14, 2017. The final three years of each sentence was suspended. They opened appeals against their convictions today on a number of grounds including the trial judges instructions to the jury and issues surrounding the lawfulness of the Roches arrests and detention. The Director of Public Prosecutions will argue tomorrow that the convictions of all three men are safe. Counsel for Patrick Roche, Michael Delaney SC, said his client was not arrested for the offence for which he was detained. Patrick Roche. He said Patrick Roche was interviewed 20 times, over six or seven days. In the last two interviews, the gardai invoked the power to draw inferences from his failure to answer material questions. However, Mr Delaney said it wasn't permissible to invoke the "inference provisions" where an explanation had repeatedly been given by Patrick Roche for his whereabouts. He said Patrick Roche told gardai that he had taken the train from Dublin to Cork and was collected by his cousin in a BMW before driving to Knocknaheeny in relation to a horse. Counsel for Philip Roche, Seamus Clarke SC, submitted that the arrest of both Roches was unlawful because the arresting gardai tagged along with a search team, for the purpose of arrest, without stating their intention. Counsel for Freeman, Dominic McGinn SC, said the only evidence connecting his client to the offence came from an alleged accomplice. He submitted that the trial judge misstated what could have amounted to corroboration of the alleged accomplice's evidence against Freeman. He further submitted that cross-examination on behalf of his client's coaccused prejudiced Freeman. The hearing continues tomorrow before President of the Court of Appeal Mr Justice George Birmingham, Mr Justice Patrick McCarthy and Ms Justice Isobel Kennedy. Fianna Fail has hit out at the Government for now spending almost 10bn on three projects that are all billions over budget. Fianna Fail leader Micheal Martin has said the National Development Plan is now "in shreds" and Finance Minister Paschal Donohoe can no longer say he will find the extra money for the spiralling cost of rural broadband, the national children's hospital and the proposed metro in Dublin. "What the ministers and the Government are announcing is not grounded in reality," Mr Martin said of the Cabinet decision to press ahead with the consortium led by David McCourt to deliver the National Broadband Plan (NBP) which will no cost the State 3bn. "There is clearly an electoral context to this, this is promising the sun, moon and stars again to rural Ireland, two weeks out from a local election, but rural Ireland are now quite cynical at this stage in terms of the broadband story because they have been promised this for seven years and every single target has been missed and every promise has been broken," Mr Martin said. Mr Martin said his party are in favour of setting up an agency within the ESB to deliver broadband. Referring to a number of projects which are now billions of euro over budget, Mr Martin said the credibility of the National Development Plan, has been "torn to shreds". If you take the National Children's Hospital, that has gone to 2bn from around 500m, that's 1.5bn of an increase, the broadband plan as late as September 2017 has gone from 800m to 3bn no one has explained it, bar the Secretary General of the Department of Public Expenditure who said the public spending code has been breached, he said we had agreed 800m as the baseline estimate for this. However, since then Mr Martin said the cost of providing rural broadband has "suddenly ballooned" to 3bn. "So you have the children's hospital ballooning to 2bn, you have a broadband plan ballooning to 3bn and the Department saying we are going to have to find 1bn in the next three or four years to look after about 1,500 social houses, hundreds of primary schools, a range of other services in health, primary care centres." He also pointed to the Taoiseach who said the new Metro will be 5bn, which he said was another 1.5bn to 2bn extra. "What kind of planet are they living on? You are up to nearly 10bn on three projects, the National Development Plan has absolutely no credibility as we speak here today, no credibility," he said. The Chairman of the Revenue Commissioners Niall Cody has warned that the Minister for Finance will have to be prudent and not rely on Corporation Tax to fund State expenditure. The publication of the Revenue Commissioners annual report today revealed that the amount of Corporation Tax collected by the State last year increased by 26 per cent to 54.6bn with 45% of that coming from the Top 10 Corporate Taxpayers and 73% from the Top 100. Mr Cody told RTE Radio's News at One that Corporation Tax has been very volatile and it does jump. He said that the Minister for Finance doesnt want to rely on significant Corporation Tax to fund expenditure. Anything that jumps like that, if theres a drop the Government has to be prudent. There is a concern when there is that concentration which is why the Government has to be prudent, he added. Over the past four years the Top 10 Corporate Tax payers have contributed between 35% to 37%, which has been fairly consistent he said. Mr Cody explained that apart from Corporation Tax a significant portion of PAYE, USC and PRSI was paid by the major companies, 7.9bn out of 18.4bn. The annual report also highlights the success of the Revenue Commissioners in tackling the illicit trade in cigarettes, fuel and drugs. However, he warned that 13 per cent of all cigarette sales in the country were through illicit trade which was a significant threat to Revenue receipts. He also encouraged more businesses who trade with the UK to register for an EORI number. At present only 50 per cent of companies have done so. If it turns out that they dont need it, thats good, but it would be better to have done that than not. Mr Cody said that the Revenue Commissioners are prepared for Brexit and had assigned 400 customs officers. We have identified that we will need 600 in the event of a no deal Brexit. He said that 270 new staff had been hired and were on a five weeks training course. They will continue to enhance their skills and even if a deal is reached with regards to Brexit they can be redeployed as tax and customs are an integrated service. There is plenty of work. Nurses were the most assaulted group of workers in HSE hospitals last year, accounting for three in five of all recorded incidents. Figures outlined at the Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation (INMO) annual conference show that nurses have been the most widely assaulted group in hospitals for the past 10 years. Last year's figures show a total of 948 assaults across all hospital staff - with 584 relating to nurses (61%). INMO general secretary, Phil Ni Sheaghdha, said there is "a huge degree of under-reporting in all assaults". She said while there is a scheme for nurses who suffer physical assault, whereby being absent from work, as a result, does not affect sick leave, there is no such comfort for victims of psychological assault. The INMO has negotiated this scheme with the HSE and is now focused on getting it extended to other forms of assault, Ms Ni Sheaghdha said. She said she has represented a nurse who suffered "a pretty bad assault at work". "She worked in an emergency department (ED) she was grabbed from behind, dragged through the unit." "She was off work for nearly three months. She didn't have a physical injury but psychologically couldn't go back to work, so there's no provision for the psychological part of that injury to be catered for under that scheme. "We are seeking to change that because, obviously, your psychological injuries are as important as your physical injuries. It's a work in progress but it's very slow," Ms Ni Sheaghdha said. She said for some nurses, an assault has been "career-ending". "That's just not acceptable. They then retire on the grounds of ill health," she said. INMO general secretary, Phil Ni Sheaghdha. A motion calling on the HSE to provide greater support for nurses and greater planning to prevent violence and aggression in older people's services was passed at the conference. Mayo nurses, Rita O'Malley of Belmullet and Noreen Quinn of Ballina, said they were subjected to a variety of assaults including hitting, kicking, sexual, physical and emotional. While the elderly resident was not to blame on account of having dementia, nurses were left feeling they were the guilty party. 'What did you do to cause the incident?' is often the line of questioning adopted by management. "Where is the appropriate de-briefing, where is the appropriate stress-relief course?" Ms Quinn asked. Both Ms O'Malley and Ms Quinn have undertaken stress-relief courses which they paid for themselves. The nurses said there is a serious need for the HSE to protect the well-being of nurses in these frightening situations. Young staff, in particular, can be traumatised, Ms Quinn said. Ms OMalley said there is a need for more dementia-specific units, where residents can be placed on a short-term basis to help with managing challenging behaviour. Health Minister Simon Harris will attend the final day of the conference in County Meath tomorrow. A school principal demoted after having been found to have emotionally abused a pupil by requiring her to kneel on the floor on two occasions has lost her High Court challenge to the disciplinary process. Maire Sheehy, former principal of Killaloe Convent Primary School, Co Clare, denied she sought to punish the girl or gave any instruction for her to kneel. She said she simply put the child into other rooms to calm down a situation and as a "time out" following the pupil's behaviour in class. She claimed the child had a "predilection for kneeling". She was initially dismissed but on appeal this was reduced to demotion back to class teacher. Ms Justice Una Ni Raifeartaigh rejected Ms Sheehy's challenge to the disciplinary process which she said was flawed and tainted by bias against her. The judge said that while the pendulum of attitudes towards disciplining pupils has happily swung far away from the harsh methods of decades ago "one wonders whether there is a danger of swinging too far in the other direction" by going straight to a disciplining of the principal which almost led to her dismissal. Ms Sheehy was appointed dual role principal and teacher in the all-girls national school comprising five other teachers and 100 pupils in September 2007. Ms Sheehy claimed from the start there was a strained and fractious atmosphere, compounded by a history of industrial relations discontent. Some seven years later, a number of members of staff wrote a letter complaining of difficulties within the school over a number of years and which had intensified in recent months. There were complaints including a "fragmented atmosphere" and of staff being stressed. Mediation followed but there was little, if any, improvement, the judge said. Six months later, the deputy principal, Alison Varley, wrote another letter to the board of management complaining of, among other things, Ms Sheehy's demeaning manner, undermining of staff, failure to properly investigate the loss of 1,300 in fundraised monies and of Ms Sheehy smoking in the boiler house on a daily basis. Ms Varley also alleged Ms Sheehy had undertaken "inappropriate methods of discipline" with regard to a particular pupil who, she said, had been instructed on two occasions to kneel on the ground facing the wall. It was this particular complaint that the new board of management chairperson, Luke Murtagh, carried out an investigation into. The board of management conducted an oral hearing into the complaints in June 2017 at which Ms Sheehy strenuously denied the allegations against her. She said the first incident with the pupil arose when the child accidentally spilled a container of water over other pupils' drawings during Ms Sheehy's class. She said she needed to calm the situation and she brought the child into her office so a special needs assistant (SNA) could take care of the child for a few minutes while she dealt with the situation in the classroom. The SNA gave evidence to the disciplinary hearing that Ms Sheehy told the child to kneel down in front of the wall and stay there for five minutes. Ms Sheehy said she "did not instruct (the child) to kneel on the floor and face the wall". In relation to the second alleged incident, Ms Sheehy said the same child became "a little giddy" in class and this was unsettling other pupils. She placed the child in the care of another teacher in another class, "not as a disciplinary action" but "simply as a time out". Again, she denied instructing the child to kneel down. She also said the child had a habit and "a predilection for kneeling" under a certain teacher's care. Ms Sheehy, who was represented by the Irish National Teachers' Organisation at the disciplinary hearing, claimed it was tainted by bias and that the chairperson refused to step down despite a request from her representative. The board decided the evidence against her had been substantiated and she should be dismissed. She appealed and an independent panel rejected her appeal saying all procedures had been adhered to and the facts considered in a reasonable manner. However, it found the dismissal decision was disproportionate and recommended demotion. Ms Justice Ni Raifeartaigh said even if there were defects in the original disciplinary hearing by the board, none of them were alleged to have tainted the appeal which Ms Sheehy did not challenge. Publishing details of every nurse sanctioned by their regulatory body could lead some to take their own lives or consider doing so, according to the Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation (INMO). Dr Edward Mathews, INMO director of regulation and social policy, told the union's annual conference that the proposal contained in the Regulated Professions (Health and Social Care) (Amendment) Bill 2019 would be resisted by nurses, doctors, dentists and other regulated health professions. He said the bill proposes to amend the existing Fitness to Practice regime whereby "ever single sanction without exception will be published by the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Ireland (NMBI)", whereas currently there is scope to argue against publication "where there is vulnerability from a health point of view". Dr Mathews said that while there were "many" good aspects to the bill, publishing every sanction is not one of them. He said they have evidence from psychiatrists that people who are vulnerable health-wise could develop suicidal thoughts or even attempt suicide when faced with a Fitness to Practice hearing and the prospect of their details being publicised. "We've had people who've attempted suicide while going through the process," Dr Mathews said. Regretfully, over the years, we've had people who committed suicide. He said a balance needs to be struck between protecting the public interest "and what needs to be in the public domain". Dr Mathews said the INMO is in the process of engaging in a "multi-lateral campaign" with the Irish Dental Association and the Irish Medical Organisation to resist the proposal to publish all sanctions. He said details of each sanction "from the most minor written warning" would also be publicised in the High Court representing "a double-whammy" for nurses. "If the Oireachtas proceeds with this reform, it is a sad reality that very vulnerable nurses and midwives and other regulated health professionals will not be able to survive the Fitness To Practice process," Dr Mathews said. He said the INMO spends up to 500,000 each year defending its members before inquiries and that about 75% of complaints end at the preliminary inquiry stage. Last year saw a 100% increase in the number of complaints to the NMBI, he said, with one hearing running for 14 days. Dr Mathews said that while they support professional regulation "what we want is a fair process". The conference, in County Meath, enters its final day tomorrow. A solicitor who was working in Gerald Kean's office when it was visited by officers of the Criminal Assets Bureau in March 2016 has told a High Court jury she was "horrified" by a newspaper article concerning that visit. Sharyn Coghlan, a conveyancing solicitor in Mr Kean's practice for 14 years, said, when she read the Irish Daily Star article, it looked like Mr Kean was "caught up in criminal gangs". She disagreed with Rossa Fanning SC, for the newspaper, that, when the article was read as a whole, a reasonable reader would not get that impression. She was giving evidence in the continuing action by Mr Kean alleging defamation in the March 11th 2016 article headlined Kean caught up in CAB probe. Mr Kean claims it wrongly meant he was linked to gangland crime and has damaged him personally and in his practice as a solicitor. Independent Star Ltd denies defamation and has pleaded fair and reasonable publication in the public interest on a matter of public benefit. The jury has heard two CAB officers went to Mr Kean's office at Upper Pembroke Street in Dublin on March 10, 2016 with a District Court search warrant seeking documents concerning the purchase of a house at Kildare Road, Crumlin, by a Dublin man, Sean McGovern, as they suspected that house was bought with the proceeds of crime. Mr McGovern was wounded in the Regency Hotel shooting in February 2016 when gangster David Byrne was shot dead. Today, Ms Coghlan said she had handled the Crumlin house purchase and, when the CAB officers came to the Kean offices on March 10, she procured the relevant documents and those were provided to the officers. The officers had told Mr Kean Mr McGovern did not have a criminal record and she had not discussed the CAB visit with anyone else, she said. That night, Mr Kean (pictured below) phoned her "in a frenzy" having seen the Star article headlined on a TV progamme and she was so worried about him she considered driving to his home in Wicklow. When she bought the newspaper the following day, she was horrified by the article which she believed made Mr Kean "look like a suspect in something which he was not involved in". She received several calls about it, including from clients wondering should they take their files out of the firm and if it had an issue with CAB. Under cross-examination, she agreed Mr McGovern was aged 29 when he bought the Crumlin property for 155,000 cash. It was not routine to make house purchase for cash but some buyers did and there were documents showing Mr McGovern was a director of a car company, she said. She recalled the conveyance as "relatively straightforward" transaction. The CAB officers had assured herself and Mr Kean their visit concerned Mr McGovern, the firm had no liability or responsibility, and the visit would have no impact on it, she said. Earlier, under continuing cross-examination by Eoin McCullough, for the newspaper, Mr Kean agreed the search warrant obtained by CAB was a formal document permitting CAB to enter his premises, by force if necessary, search it and seize documents concerning the Crumlin house transaction. He was presented with a warrant but the CAB officers did not search or raid the office and did not seize documents as those were provided to them, he said. He agreed references in the article to CAB "calling" to the office as part of its probe into the Kinahan drugs cartel and seeking a file relating to the McGovern house purchase, were correct. He also agreed the activities of criminal gangs, and the efforts of gardai and CAB to combat those, are of public interest and concern. His complaint was about the entirety of the article, including the headline and use of photos of him which made him look "as if the world had collapsed on me". He agreed he had options other than defamation proceedings to deal with his complaints about the article. John Murphy, a solicitor based in Enniscorthy, said, when he initially saw the article, he got the impression Mr Kean was "in big trouble" and was "caught up in criminality". When he read the article in full, he realised it concerned a CAB call to a solicitors office and the solicitor had co-operated with the CAB officers. When CAB calls to a solicitors office, that facilitates a solicitor releasing a file which otherwise they could not release because a clients file is confidential, he said. It is the client who is being investigated by CAB, not the solicitor, he added. He agreed with Mr Fanning it is for the jury to decide what the article means. The case continues tomorrow. A Dublin man who touched a fellow bus passenger's shoulder with his penis claimed he had been urinating when the vehicle jerked forward and pushed him towards the woman, a court has heard. Thomas McMahon (35) of Aideen Avenue, Terenure, today received a suspended sentence after pleading guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to exposure on a Dublin bus, in Crumlin on June 28, 2017. Judge Melanie Greally noted the offence appeared not to be for sexual gratification but occurred while McMahon was inebriated and in need of relieving himself. She noted his long standing drug and alcohol addictions which he is endeavouring to address and his history of mental health issues. She took into account his embarrassment and shame at his actions. Judge Greally imposed a one year sentence which she suspended for 12 months on strict conditions. Garda Conor O'Neill agreed with David Staunton BL, defending, that the victim told gardai that the bus had jerked forward when she noticed McMahon's penis on her shoulder. He also accepted that McMahon said he had problems with urinating due to both his alcohol and drug addictions and that although he could not remember the incident, he thought it was most likely that he had gone to the back of the bus to urinate. It was further accepted that McMahon was disgusted by his behaviour and extremely remorseful. Gda O'Neill accepted a suggestion from Mr Staunton that McMahon is now in better shape than he had been at the time and he had taken steps to rehabilitate. Mr Staunton submitted to Judge Greally that McMahon didn't have his wits about him because of his addiction. He had gone to the back of the bus with the intention of urinating. There was no sexual element to it. He was not seeking to sexually gratify himself with making contact with her, counsel said Gda O'Neill told Siobhan Ni Chulachain BL, prosecuting, that the woman was heading into town on the bus when she noticed one man was sitting alone on the other aisle. She didn't notice him sit in behind her but when the bus jerked she felt his penis on her shoulder. She saw he was standing up behind her and that his penis was not erect. The woman screamed at him and ran down to the bus driver. McMahon got off the bus and the driver pulled up at the next lights and called gardai. The woman prepared a victim impact report in which she stated that it was the scariest thing that had happened me on a bus. She took two days off work but otherwise the incident had no long lasting impact on her. Gda O'Neill confirmed that McMahon was identified as a suspect from CCTV from the bus. He was arrested and co-operated with the investigation, although he said he had no recollection of the incident. McMahon has 10 previous convictions for District Court offences such as public order and assault. - Additional reporting by Fiona Feguson A woman whose husband died from a blood clot while he was in hospital recuperating from surgery has settled her High Court action. Ellen Hackett's husband John (aged 71), of Finglas, Dublin, who had five children and was a grandfather of six died from a pulmonary thrombo-embolism five years ago. Mrs Hackett's counsel Des ONeill SC told the High Court it was their case Mr Hackett was recuperating from an operation when he developed a pulmonary embolism which was allegedly not diagnosed in time, and once diagnosed was allegedly not treated adequately. Mrs Hackett who had been married to John for 50 years told an inquest into his death that life stood still for her and her family after the death of her husband. Taking the stand at the inquest two years ago, Mrs Hackett said his coat was hanging in the hall in the family home, but "John is not where he should be". "You only have to put a foot in the door of our family home to see the shock and devastation of John's death," she said. The emptiness is palpable. Life has stood still for us as a family since the day John died. She added: "I have lost my husband, my best friend and life companion of nearly 50 years." The Coroner returned a verdict of medical misadventure in the case. In the High Court, Ellen Hackett (aged 74) Kildonan Avenue, Finglas, Dublin, had sued the Mater Hospital Dublin where the initial surgery had been carried out and the Incorporated Orthopaedic Hospital of Ireland, Castle Avenue, Clontarf, Dublin, where Mr Hackett had been transferred for rehabilitation in November 2014. The case against the Mater Hospital was struck out at the High Court today. Mrs Hackett had claimed against the Incorporated Orthopaedic Hospital of Ireland, Clontarf, that a large number of opportunities had been allegedly missed to diagnose pulmonary embolism from November 14, 2014 onward and there was an alleged failure to have regard to the fact that in the absence of chest infection, the most likely explanation for reduced blood oxygen levels was pulmonary embolism. It was further claimed there was an alleged failure to refer Mr Hackett for a CT pulmonary angiogram and an alleged failure by December 1, 2014, to conclude his pleuritic chest pain was likely to be due to pulmonary embolism. While pulmonary embolism was considered on December 3, 2014, and Mr Hackett was given an injection of the anticoagulant Heparin, it was claimed the dose was too small to have any effect on an established pulmonary embolism. Mrs Hackett claimed she and her family suffered great distress at the death of Mr Hackett and she found it difficult to come to terms with the sudden loss of her husband. The claims were denied. Approving the settlement the details of which are confidential, Mr Justice Kevin Cross offered his sympathies to Mrs Hackett and her family. The trial of Elizabeth Holmes, the former Theranos chief executive, and Ramesh Balwani, its chief operating officer, is setting up to be the most extensive corporate prosecutions since executives at Enron were tried in 2006. Elizabeth Holmes makes her way into court last month. Credit:Bloomberg And if the case gets to trial, one intriguing question is how Holmes and Balwani will defend themselves. A recent filing by Holmes, which was joined by Balwani, who goes by Sunny, outlines a possible defence: put the government on trial by claiming that regulators improperly brought actions against the company for its blood analysis technology. Holmes' lawyers in the filing demanded records from the Food and Drug Administration and the Centres for Medicare and Medicaid Services related to their interactions with John Carreyrou, a reporter for The Wall Street Journal who broke the story about problems with Theranos' technology. He later wrote a devastating portrayal of the company, Bad Blood: Secrets and Lies in a Silicon Valley Startup, that paints a picture of questionable practices in the company's operations. Bill Shorten's teary press conference hitting back at a critical story in the Daily Telegraph about his account of his late-mother's career has won praise from supporters, but has also been described by former News Corp executives and critics of the media giant as smart politics. It continues a strategy the Labor leader has pursued since before the start of the campaign that would have been unthinkable in previous elections, of openly attacking the nation's most powerful media company. Opposition Leader Bill Shorten speaks about his mother during a press conference at Grand Pacific Health in Nowra on May 8, 2019. Credit:Dominic Lorrimer On Wednesday the Telegraph ran a front page story and an editorial criticising Mr Shorten for omitting in a recent TV appearance the fact that his schoolteacher mother had become a lawyer later in life. Andrew Bolt, one of News Corp's highest profile commentators, whose columns appear in the Telegraph, said in a blog post he thought Mr Shorten was being sincere in praising his mother for sacrificing her dreams and understood why he was angry about the stories. Market veterans say investors should be "infuriated" with Australia's competition watchdog after it accidentally published its decision to block the $15 billion merger between Vodafone Hutchison Australia and TPG Telecom during trading hours this week. The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission inadvertently published the merger announcement on Wednesday afternoon, a day earlier than expected, and while shares were trading. The leak prompted a 13.5 per cent fall in TPG Telecom's share price, wiping $1 billion from its market value. The ACCC blocked TPG's merger with Vodafone. Credit:Rob Homer Newgate Capital chief investment officer Tim Hannon, who has worked in financial markets for 23 years, said there had been examples in the past where investors got hold of sensitive information before they were supposed to, but never via a regulator. I havent seen anything quite like it," he said. With a distinct pop-opera sound and dazzling stage design, Australia's Eurovision Song Contest entrant Kate Miller-Heidke has emerged as one of the competition's early favourites. But the 37-year-old Brisbane-born singer, whose Zero Gravity is one of 41 songs in contention at Eurovision this year, admits she is yet to win over one very particular fan: her three-year-old son Ernie. Kate Miller-Heidke attends an Australian "fan party" in Tel Aviv, Israel, ahead of the 64th Eurovision Song Contest. Credit:Rami Zarnegar/SBS Speaking after her second technical rehearsal in Tel Aviv, Israel, yesterday, Miller-Heidke said Ernie doesn't particularly care for his mother's fame or musical talent, and that when he hears her sing he has said "it makes his ears cry." "I have been on Play School a couple of times and if ever he sees me on TV he asks to turn it off," Miller-Heidke says. Prime Minister Scott Morrison has "100 per cent" ruled out tax cuts for larger businesses in the next term of Parliament in the face of a new scare campaign from the Labor Party to be run through the final days of the election. As the business community called on both sides to deliver tax relief to firms with turnover of more than $50 million, Opposition Leader Bill Shorten claimed Mr Morrison would return to his previous support for tax cuts aimed at large firms. Scott Morrison says there is no chance the Coalition will seek to cut the corporate tax rate if it is returned at the May 18 election. Credit:Dominic Lorrimer The ALP on Thursday launched an advertising campaign around the idea that the Coalition, which was forced to abandon its business tax cut plans after taking them to the 2016 election, would bring back the policy with the support of Clive Palmer's United Australia Party. The advertisements feature Mr Morrison when he was treasurer and prosecuting the case for a 25 per cent company tax rate for all businesses, saying he did not "flip and flop" around issues. Online publisher Daily Mail Australia is attempting to halt defamation action brought by washing machine repairman Bill Spedding, after he was wrongly called a "convicted paedophile" in two of its news stories in 2016. Mr Spedding, 68, has been the subject of media scrutiny after he was identified by police as one of hundreds of persons of interest in the 2014 disappearance of toddler William Tyrrell at Kendall on the NSW Mid North Coast. Bill Spedding leaves court on Wednesday. Credit:Georgina Mitchell Mr Spedding has vehemently denied any involvement in William's disappearance and has never been charged in relation to it. In August and September 2016, Daily Mail Australia published two stories detailing developments in the case, both of which mistakenly referred to Mr Spedding as a "convicted paedophile". A builder's fine has been hiked from $1200 to $20,000 after the company appealed its original penalty for illegally paying 10 workers who were striking at a South Brisbane construction site. The breach occurred during the construction of the $53 million Arena Apartments in 2013, when Hutchinson Builders paid the workers who were taking unlawful industrial action. The union and its officials were fined more than $35,000 while the builder copped a $20,000 penalty on appeal. Credit:LUIS ENRIQUE ASCUI The Australian Building and Construction Commission appealed the original $1200 fine and argued it was "manifestly inadequate" in the Brisbane Federal Circuit Court. On December 9, two Building Construction Compliance Branch inspectors audited the site to ensure compliance with its building project code. Detectives believe the body found in a sewage tank in Brisbanes east on Wednesday is local man Jason Guise, who disappeared more than two weeks ago. Police are looking into Facebook posts from the likely victim in which he claimed his possessions were stolen or sold while he was in jail and he had attacked those he believed were responsible. Investigators suspect the body was in the tank at the Wynnum pump plant for days before it was found by council maintenance workers about 12.30pm at the Granada Street facility. Detective Inspector Owen Elloy said officers had tentatively identified the body as that of 45-year-old Mr Guise through tattoos and they told the likely victims family of their suspicions on Wednesday night. The 50-year-old man who fell off a Lime scooter down the stairs near the Wheel of Brisbane, hit his head and went into cardiac arrest, died in hospital on Thursday afternoon. It was the first death in Australia involving a Lime scooter. Emergency services said the man fell from the Lime scooter on the South Bank forecourt near the Wheel of Brisbane. Credit:Toby Crockford In a statement, Limes APAC Director of Government Affairs Mitchell Price said: We are truly saddened by this news, and we extend our sincerest thoughts and prayers to the mans family. We stand by ready to assist the authorities as they look into what happened. The man was found by South Bank security staff, who called triple zero about 12.20am on Wednesday and began attempts to resuscitate the scooter rider until specialist paramedics arrived and took over. A Queensland jury has found a man not guilty of attempting to kill a police officer after she shot him in the scrotum. But they found Daniel Luke White Mayne found guilty of an alternate charge of attempted striking to resist arrest. Their verdict on Thursday came after White Mayne, 28, was tried in the Brisbane Supreme Court for more than a week for attempting to murder Constable Diane Dorothy Squires in January 2017. White Mayne was shot through the thigh and scrotum by police after a routine arrest escalated into an underground car park shooting. The trial heard Constable Squires thought she was going to die when her gun jammed after firing at White Mayne multiple times when he pulled a revolver on her and partner Constable Simeon Pickering. Flying doctors were forced to amputate a teenager's leg after a horrific accident on a Tara farm in Queensland's Western Downs region on Thursday. A team of paramedics, firefighters, local doctors and a rescue helicopter sent to help. Credit:RACQ LifeFlight Doctors believed the teen had been operating a farming vehicle when a cable, which was being towed, became snagged just before 10am. "He reportedly tried to kick the cable loose and his left leg became trapped," a LifeFlight Rescue spokeswoman said. A friend who was also on the property called emergency crews to Tullagrie Road, about 180 kilometres west of Toowoomba. One of three men found guilty of terrorism charges for torching a Melbourne mosque in the name of Islamic State has lashed out in a fiery court outburst, calling police "dogs" and the jury who convicted him "nobodies". In the Supreme Court on Thursday, Abdullah Chaarani, 28, Ahmed Mohamed, 26, and Hatim Moukhaiber, 30, were found guilty of engaging in a terrorist act for their roles in burning down the Imam Ali Islamic Centre in Fawkner on December 11, 2016. Ahmed Mohamed, Abdullah Chaarani and Hatim Moukhaiber have been found guilty of terrorism after they torched a Melbourne mosque in 2016. Credit:Joe Armao and Darrian Traynor Chaarani and Mohamed were also found guilty of a single charge each of attempting to engage in a terrorist attack, over an unsuccessful attempt to destroy the mosque 16 days earlier. Moments after the jury delivered its verdicts, Moukhaibers mother started calling out to the jury, and then her son yelled out to anti-terrorism police. University researchers, local councils and Queensland's police force will be investigated for potential fraud by the state's anti-corruption body. The Crime and Corruption Commission has made public its plans to audit the Queensland University of Technology, University of Queensland and University of Southern Queensland for research fraud. University of Queensland was among the universities included in the investigation. It will use recommendations it made in a previous case of fabricated research by a then University of Queensland employee as a guide. In that case, UQ returned the research funds, ensured research publications that published the research were corrected and the individuals were convicted of criminal offences. Phnom Penh: An Australian woman serving a 23-year prison sentence in Cambodia for drug smuggling has been declared innocent and set free after the Cambodian Court of Appeal agreed that she was the victim of an internet love scam. The 46-year-old former Queensland primary school teacher, Yoshe Ann Taylor, landed back in Australia this morning to reunite with her two children, whom she has not spoken to in five years. Yoshe Ann Taylor arrives at Brisbane airport on Thursday morning. Credit:Paul Harris The Cambodian court accepted in a hearing on Good Friday that Ms Taylor was lured to the capital, Phnom Penh, in late 2013 on the promise of love and a career in the arts and crafts business. In reality she was the victim of a highly organised scam run by an international drug smuggling syndicate, which tricked her into carrying luggage through Phnom Penh airport with 2.2 kilograms of heroin concealed in its lining. The Australian Federal Police had tipped off Cambodian authorities, who stopped her at the airport. Vatican City: Pope Francis introduced sweeping changes in Catholic Church law on Thursday to hold bishops accountable for sexual abuse or covering it up, making reporting obligatory for clerics and allowing anyone to complain directly to the Vatican if needed. A papal decree, which covers abuse of both children and adults, also obliges every Catholic diocese in the world to set up simple and accessible reporting systems and encourages local churches to involve lay experts in investigations. Members of the Legionaries of Christ order kneel in front of Pope Francis at the end of his weekly general audience in St Peter's Square at the Vatican on Wednesday. Credit:AP The decree, whose preparation was reported first by Reuters in April, is the second such papal provision since a summit on abuse by senior Church bishops at the Vatican in February. It sets time limits for local investigations and the Vatican's response to them and allows for retroactive reporting. Washington: The grade 6 student stood outside his Colorado charter school, one arm wrapped around his dad, while he described how he had planned to try to thwart an active shooter. Kelly and Steve Holley hold their son Nate, 12, across the street from the STEM School Highlands Ranch in Highlands Ranch, Colorado. Credit:AP "I had my hand on a metal baseball bat, just in case," Nate Holley told CNN's Brooke Baldwin, looking straight into the camera. "'Cause I was going to go down fighting if I was going to go down." Baldwin fell silent and threw her hands up. "You were going to go down fighting with a baseball bat," she repeated slowly. "And again, Nate, how old are you?" Brasilia: Brazil's right-wing President Jair Bolsonaro has signed a decree to ease restrictions on gun imports and increase the amount of ammunition a person can buy. Immediately, shares in gunmaker Taurus Armas surged 21 per cent with the company declaring the executive order a "milestone", and saying it "could significantly increase the demand for firearms by hunters, shooters and collectors, and law-abiding citizens for their self-defence and defence of their property." Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro signs a decree easing gun laws in Brasilia while lawmakers celebrate. Credit:Bloomberg The decree had initially been designed to ease restrictions for collectors, marksmen and hunters - allowing, for example, the carrying of loaded guns to shooting clubs - but was expanded to include other provisions. Previously, imported arms were banned if there was a similar domestic-made product. With support from both APRA and the RBA, ASIC has written a letter to the CEOs of major Australian financial institutions to ensure they are taking the necessary steps to prepare for the end of LIBOR. According to the three regulators, LIBOR (London Interbank Offered Rate) is deeply embedded in financial markets globally and is relied upon by many Australian financial institutions in their contracts and business processes. However, the UK Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has stated that it will no longer use its powers to sustain LIBOR beyond 2021. The key problem, as summarised by RBA deputy governor Guy Debelle, is that there are not enough transactions in the short-term interbank funding market to reliably calculate the benchmark. He continued, The banks that make the submissions used to calculate LIBOR are uncomfortable about continuing to do this, as they have to rely mainly on their expert judgment in determining where LIBOR should be rather than on actual transactions. ASICs letter aims to clarify that the senior management of the Australian financial institutions in question fully appreciates the impact and risks associated with the upcoming change, and are preparing to weather the transition to alternative benchmarks by the end of 2021. The regulators are urging relevant institutions to: be aware of the size and nature of their exposures to LIBOR put in place robust fall-back provisions in contracts referencing LIBOR take action to transition to alternative rates ASIC commissioner Cathie Armour has encouraged firms to take timely action to plan for a world in which LIBOR is no longer available. Financial regulators around the world expect institutions using LIBOR to be ready to transition to more robust benchmarks, the RBA deputy governor added. In a speech in March, RBA assistant governor Christopher Kent said, The various LIBORs have long been the key interest rate benchmarks for the major currencies. However, given that they are not supported by a sufficient volume of transactions in wholesale short term funding markets, it is now widely recognised that these will come to an end. When LIBOR comes to an end, there could be disruptions for many existing products referencing LIBOR unless their contracts contain robust fall-back provisions, he added. Latest News MoneyMe to acquire SocietyOne Deal brings together two of the fastest-growing brands in the non-bank space Resimac makes key broker channel hires Two new GMs to bolster broker support An aspiring bank has announced it is entering into a new phase of capital raising efforts, in line with its business plan that calls for more than $250m of capital over the first three years of operation. To facilitate this stage of growth beyond the launch, 86 400 has appointed Morgan Stanley Australia to assist in the fundraising efforts. CEO Robert Bell explained, Over the last two years and with the support of Cuscal weve invested heavily in building proprietary technology that will change the way retail banking is delivered in Australia. Our app and Customer Experience Engine (CXE) are both built and in testing and we plan to launch with a transaction and savings account soon after we receive our banking licence. Thus far, the neobank has been fully funded by Cuscal Limited, but is seeking to add new shareholders before the end of 2019. Its business model is reliant upon smarter technology, a simpler operating structure and streamlined systems and processes to allow savings to be passed onto customers and better returns for investors. Chairman of 86 400 Anthony Thomson said, We look forward to introducing new, like-minded shareholders to the business towards the end of this year, as we deliver the easiest version of banking to Australian customers. Our mission is to help Australians take control of their money, placing them at the very centre of what we do every second, of every minute, of every day. All eighty-six four hundred of them, he concluded. Sign up for our amNY Sports email newsletter to get insights and game coverage for your favorite teams Police have identified a 41-year-old man who they suspect raped a 16-year-old girl in Crown Heights earlier this year. The suspect, who is known to split his time between New York City and Georgia, allegedly entered the basement of a Kingston Avenue residential building between Atlantic Avenue and Pacific Street at 10 a.m. on March 20, when he raped the teenage girl, police said. Anyone who provides police with information leading to an arrest can expect a $2,500 reward through the NYPDs Crime Stoppers program. The public can phone tips in at (800) 577-8477, log into the Crime Stoppers website at www.nypdc rimes toppe rs.com , tweet @NYPDTips, or text tips to 274637 (CRIMES) then enter TIP577. All calls are strictly confidential. Sign up for our amNY Sports email newsletter to get insights and game coverage for your favorite teams The city must station armed guards at places of worship, local pols demanded on the steps of City Hall on Tuesday. Demonstrators took to the infamous set of stairs on May 7 to advocate for a piece of legislation that would provide funding for security personnel at religious buildings, which is necessary in the wake of recent attacks around the world, according to one Southern Brooklyn councilman. New Yorkers of faith deserve to be safe as they worship its as simple as that, said Chaim Deutsch (DSheepshead Bay). Houses of worship need a layer of protection to keep congregants safe, such as an armed guard. Deutsch and fellow Councilman Kalman Yeger (DMidwood) are hoping to put a bill on the mayors desk next week that will aim to station armed guards at churches, synagogues, and mosques around the city. Our bill will allow any house of worship to hire a private security guard, submit for reimbursement, and have the city pay the bill, said Yeger. This is our city and our money, and safety in our houses of worship is our most fundamental right. The push to commission armed guards comes on the heels of recent violent attacks at a mosque in New Zealand, churches in Sri Lanka, and synagogues in Pittsburgh. Last month, a man attempted to set fire to St. Patricks Cathedral on Fifth Avenue. Deutsch accused pols who opposed the bill of inaction with deadly consequences. Every time an attack occurs in a house of worship we tend to send out a tweet condemning those actions and sending our condolences, he said. Now we need to take proactive measures and not be reactive. Lets not send out those condolences. We have to face reality here in New York City and its time that this administration funds security for all our houses of worship. Councilwoman Laurie Cumbo (DClinton Hill), along with Councilmen Mathieu Eugene (DFlatbush) and Mark Treyger (D-Coney Island) joined Tuesdays demonstration at City Hall with more than 20 religious leaders from around the city. Its a proud moment when we can come together as leaders and advocate for better protections at our houses of worship, said Cumbo. Treyger used the rally to push for unarmed security officers at city schools. Im also outraged that there is no money in the executive budget for security guards at private schools, including religious private schools, which frequently face threats of violence, he said. The legislators hope their bill will pass, and be signed by Hizzoner next week. We have to know we will be protected in our houses of worship, in our sanctuaries of peace, said Yeger. Sign up for our amNY Sports email newsletter to get insights and game coverage for your favorite teams A Flatlands arsonist pled guilty in Federal Court on Wednesday to starting a massive fire that ravaged Mill Basins Kings Plaza parking garage last September. Twenty-three-year-old Evon Stephens faces up to five years in prison for setting the blaze, which injured 26 people and damaged over 135 vehicles parked in the garage, according to prosecutors. Surveillance video on the morning of September 17 captured Stephens in the garage, located at 5100 Avenue U, which was closed to the public at the time. A security guard ordered him to stop for questioning, but Stephens walked away, according to authorities. Cameras later caught the 23-year-old entering a parked car at around 8:15 a.m. and hopping out just before a fire started inside the vehicle, according to court filings. The flames then spread, burning for more than three hours and devastating the gigantic garage. Police tracked Stephens down later that day, and arrested him at approximately 3:30 p.m. The fire exposed Kings Plaza for using the garage to illegally store inventory on behalf of local car dealerships, a practice for which prosecutors forced shopping mall management to pay a $1,250 fine. After the fire, Stephens told prosecutors that he was aware the vehicles were owned by car dealerships, and he set the fire because he believed that people used the vehicles for sexual activity. Stephens officially pled guilty in the Eastern District of New York to charges of using fire to damage property. He is expected to be sentenced by a Federal Judge on August 20. Sign up for our amNY Sports email newsletter to get insights and game coverage for your favorite teams Call it a jailhouse knock. Mayor Bill de Blasios plan to raze Atlantic Avenues House of Detention and rebuild a larger incarceration complex in its stead stumbled when it failed to get the approval from Community Board 2 members by a hair-thin margin at a raucous meeting Wednesday night. Members issued their purely advisory vote with 17 to 16 voting against their land use committees previous conditional recommendation to accept Hizzoners plan to raze the Boerum Hill lockup and replace it with a larger jail as part of the citys borough-based jails plan. One member scolded the citys criminal justice record toward people of color and abuse by jail guards. If an institution is built 80 years ago or whatever and they cant get it right then, theyre not going to get it right now, Samantha Johnson said at the boards May 8 meeting inside a packed auditorium at New York City College of Technology in Americas Downtown. Melees and assaults and rape have happened in these institutions. We cannot trust that the culture is going to change when we train people, the Fort Greener said. Nobody is going to hold these people accountable, not even the mayor, because we all know, hes running for president. The land use committee at their meeting last month voted in favor of de Blasios plan to close the beleaguered jail complex by 2027 and move its incarcerated people to four borough-based jails with several conditions, including lowering the jails target population from 1,437 to 875, cutting the buildings proposed size by almost half both in accordance with recent and future criminal justice reforms and adding a new jail to Staten Island, the only borough spared from the plan. Several board members said they couldnt vote for the scheme due to the citys continually-changing plans for the post-Rikers jails size and population. State legislators passed a sweeping package of reforms on April 1, which will end cash bail and pretrial detention for almost all misdemeanor and nonviolent felony defendants, among other reforms, and which will reduce the amount of people awaiting trial in jail because they cant afford bail. The legislation will not come into effect until Jan. 1, 2020, but a recent study by the criminal justice reform advocacy group the Center for Court Innovation found that more than two out five people detained pretrial in the five boroughs would have been released under the new laws. On May 6, the mayors office promised to shrink the jails due to the drop in inmate population and criminal justice reforms, reported The City. Citing that report, one board member said that it was difficult to decide on the citys plan if it kept changing and due to the fact that bureaucrats were not forthcoming with precise figures. This shows that the plan actually keeps changing, which is really unfortunate, because we very much want to do the right thing and were constantly given different information and misinformation, said Sandra Rothbard. The biggest problem for us was that a lot of issues with the citys plan were very vague. When we asked for specific numbers, they were not provided. Council Speaker Corey Johnson reportedly chimed in, saying that he was worried about the size of the proposed facility between Smith Street and Boerum Place, according to a leader of the board, who said he had a private conversation with the Manhattan pol. He [Johnson] too had concerns about the density of the facility proposed for 275 Atlantic Ave., said District Manager Robert Perris. It was a private conversation with someone Id known before he was in government services. A spokesman for Johnson said that communities around the four jail sites were concerned about their height and density, but stopped short of confirming whether the speaker himself shared these concerns with regard to the Boerum Hill jail, ahead of the councils future vote on the proposal. Communities around the four proposed new jail sites have expressed concerns about the height and density of the buildings, said Juan Soto in an emailed statement. Now that the scaled back proposal is going through our public review process, we expect to hear substantive feedback from local community boards and other stakeholders, which the City Council will consider when its our turn to review the proposal. Reps for the mayors Office of Criminal Justice handed out guidelines and principles for the proposed jail by the boroughs Neighborhood Advisory Committee which included local community and business leaders exclusively to board members at the beginning of the meeting, which one member criticized as being too short notice to take into serious consideration. The mayors office handed us this now today, which didnt give us enough chance, the member said. She asked for the reps to explain and take questions on these guidelines but Lenny Singletary, the boards chairman, told her that he could not fit that into the boards procedure ahead of a vote. Protesters some of whom said they were from No New Jails NYC, the activist group opposed to any new jails packed the room and shouted their opposition to the mayors plan, demanding the board reject the proposal. Soon after land use committee Chair Carlton Gordon began explaining his groups proposal and answering board members questions, activists drowned them out with chants, saying that the board wasnt representative and that the city should invest in its community instead, as the meeting descended into disarray. This so-called community board does not represent the community, protested one audience member. You all dont have the money to fix NYCHA, but youre using capital funding to build new jails, said another. When Singletary eventually called the vote, the audience yelled shame and no new jails at each member voting in favor of the plans approval, while applauding and cheering at those voting it down. The community boards vote marks an initial step in the citys Uniform Land Use Review Procedure, which the city must pass before it can break ground. The mayors proposal will now move on to Borough President Eric Adams, who will host a public hearing on it at Borough Hall on June 6 at 6 p.m. Reach reporter Kevin Duggan at (718) 2602511 or by e-mail at kdugg an@cn gloca l.com . Follow him on Twitter @kduggan16. Dear Reader, Business Standard has always strived hard to provide up-to-date information and commentary on developments that are of interest to you and have wider political and economic implications for the country and the world. Your encouragement and constant feedback on how to improve our offering have only made our resolve and commitment to these ideals stronger. Even during these difficult times arising out of Covid-19, we continue to remain committed to keeping you informed and updated with credible news, authoritative views and incisive commentary on topical issues of relevance. We, however, have a request. As we battle the economic impact of the pandemic, we need your support even more, so that we can continue to offer you more quality content. Our subscription model has seen an encouraging response from many of you, who have subscribed to our online content. More subscription to our online content can only help us achieve the goals of offering you even better and more relevant content. We believe in free, fair and credible journalism. Your support through more subscriptions can help us practise the journalism to which we are committed. Support quality journalism and subscribe to Business Standard. Digital Editor In the year since the British multinational Glaxo Smithkline (GSK) acquired Otrivin, the nasal spray brand, in a complex global deal with Novartis, its research team has been running the India numbers threadbare. Otrivin has been a bestseller brand for most of the 30-plus years that it has spent in the country, but the GSK team was reading a bunch of missed opportunities in the data. For one, even though one in three people suffer from a clogged nose in the country, only one in ten actually treat it, its research revealed. To nudge what it saw as latent demand, into an active purchase, ... India's Tata Motors said on thursday there was no truth to a report saying a sale of Jaguar Land Rover to French automotive group PSA could be imminent. The Press Association said leaked information suggested a sale could be imminent, citing a "post-sale integration document", which outlines the benefits of the two companies joining forces. "As a matter of policy, we do not comment on media speculation. But we can confirm there is no truth to these rumours," a Tata Motors spokesperson said. On the 19th of April this year, a former employee of the Supreme Courts registry, forwarded a detailed affidavit to the Judges of the Court alleging sexual harassment by the Chief Justice of India. She also pointed out a subsequent pattern of vengeance upon her and her family. In this unprecedented situation, the Court had many options before it order an enquiry under the Prevention of Sexual Harassment at Workplaces Act, follow its own internal sexual harassment complaint procedure or follow simple common sense. Over the last 20 days, it seems to have abandoned all of ... Disclaimer: Views expressed are personal. They do not reflect the view/s of Business Standard. The 15th Finance Commission will "reconcile data" from several sources for its report, said N K Singh, the panel's chairman, responding after a controversy over Indias key economic data Singh said senior Finance Commission officials will study data over the next two days, but their work will not be about computation methods. "We will try to reconcile and come to a conclusion on what we would consider reliable data in the public domain," Singh told reporters, adding the exercise will be carried out with the Comptroller and Auditor General of ... Dear Reader, Business Standard has always strived hard to provide up-to-date information and commentary on developments that are of interest to you and have wider political and economic implications for the country and the world. Your encouragement and constant feedback on how to improve our offering have only made our resolve and commitment to these ideals stronger. Even during these difficult times arising out of Covid-19, we continue to remain committed to keeping you informed and updated with credible news, authoritative views and incisive commentary on topical issues of relevance. We, however, have a request. As we battle the economic impact of the pandemic, we need your support even more, so that we can continue to offer you more quality content. Our subscription model has seen an encouraging response from many of you, who have subscribed to our online content. More subscription to our online content can only help us achieve the goals of offering you even better and more relevant content. We believe in free, fair and credible journalism. Your support through more subscriptions can help us practise the journalism to which we are committed. Support quality journalism and subscribe to Business Standard. Digital Editor The 15th would reconcile data from various public sources to come up with its own conclusion of a reliable economic data, the commission's chairman N K Singh told reporters at the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) headquarters on Thursday. The commission members were in Mumbai to meet the and senior officials, as well as economists and In the next two days, some of us are staying back for data reconciliation, between the CAG (comptroller and auditor general), the RBI and the data which we got from finance ministry sources. So as far as we are concerned, we will try to come to a conclusion about what we would consider a reliable data in public domain, said Singh. However, he hastened to clarify that such reconciliation has no relations whatsoever about the methodology or computation of that. As far as what would be the nature of the reconciliation, Singh said it would be within the bounds of acceptable and appropriate prudence to be able to do so. Various sources of data would be used for comparison, for states in particular, the officials said. Singh was replying to a question about the veracity of economic data being put out by the government, and being questioned by economists. The commission expressed its concerns on shrinking household savings, as that would eventually crowd out private sector investment. The commission was happy with the buoyancy of direct taxes, but projections of indirect tax collections, especially with regard to the (GST), have not been as healthy, Singh said. We are going to have another round of discussions with the Department of Revenue based on the latest figures of the improvements in behaviour and what changes can be made to make it more buoyant, stable and predictable, he said. Although the states have their own fiscal deficit target, the glide path is not being adhered to and the commission was worried about that. We would like to capture the debt figures, the public sector borrowing requirements and contingent liabilities so that we get a true and holistic picture of the debt scenario. We have had discussions with the RBI regarding this, and this is one area into which the commission will be giving some attention, said Singh. We are closely looking at what kind of disaggregated growth, debt and fiscal deficit trajectory would be practical to attain the overall objective of the general government's debt and fiscal deficit being consistent with the FRBM targets and yet within the bounds of practicality. The did not much discuss the Bimal Jalan committee with the RBI as it was the central bank's internal affair. However, the Jalan committee is in a fairly advanced stage of its deliberations, and should be presented before the Budget in July, Singh said. The commission has visited 20 states and union territories but is currently stuck because of the model code of conduct, which kicked in after the election dates were announced. We are awaiting the memorandum of the central government, which we hope to receive soon, after which we will see what can be the appropriate vertical distribution of revenues between the Centre and the states, the finance commission chairman said. Barclays, Citigroup , HSBC, JPMorgan and three other banks are set to be fined by EU antitrust regulators in coming weeks for rigging the multi-trillion dollar foreign exchange market, two people familiar with the matter said. The other three lenders are Royal Bank of Scotland, UBS and a small Japanese bank, the people said. The banks will see a 10 per cent cut in their fines for admitting wrongdoing. In contrast, Credit Suisse, which has previously said it did not find any evidence of misconduct, is fighting the EU antitrust charge. It is not clear if the European Commission will be ... Facebook Inc quickly rejected a call from co-founder Chris Hughes on Thursday to split the world's largest social media company in three, while lawmakers urged the US Justice Department to launch an antitrust investigation. Facebook has been under scrutiny from regulators around the world over data sharing practices as well as hate speech and misinformation on its networks. Some US lawmakers have also pushed for action to break up big tech companies as well as federal privacy regulation. "We are a nation with a tradition of reining in monopolies, no matter how well ... Huawei's chief financial officer intends to seek a stay of extradition proceedings in part based on statements by President Donald Trump about the case, which her lawyers say disqualifies the United States from pursuing the matter in Canada. CFO Meng Wanzhou, 47, the daughter of Huawei Technologies Co Ltd's billionaire founder, Ren Zhengfei, was arrested at Vancouver's airport in December on a US warrant and is fighting extradition on charges that she conspired to defraud global banks about Huawei's relationship with a company operating in Iran. After the arrest, ... On the first anniversary of the US' withdrawal from the 2015 Iran nuclear deal, Washington on Wednesday said it will continue to "impose maximum pressure" against Tehran till the regime gives up its "destabilising ambitions" of expanding its nuclear programme. "One year ago today, President Trump announced the United States would cease to participate in the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action and would instead embark on a bold new strategy to end Iran's destabilising behaviour and prevent Iran from ever acquiring a nuclear weapon," the State Department said in a statement. "President Trump promised that America would never be held hostage to the Iranian regime's nuclear blackmail and that we would aggressively seek to address the full range of Iran's destabilising activities," it added. Highlighting the steps taken by the Trump administration, the statement noted, "We have imposed the toughest sanctions ever on the Iranian regime, designating nearly 1,000 individuals and entities in the past year. The Trump administration has taken Iran's oil exports to historic lows, and stopped issuing Significant Reduction Exceptions to importers of Iranian oil, effectively zeroing out purchases of Iranian crude." "In May, Secretary Pompeo tightened restrictions that impede Iran's ability to reconstitute its past nuclear weapons program and prevent Iran from shortening the time it would take to produce fissile material for a nuclear weapon. Today, President Trump announced a new sanctions authority targeting trade in Iranian metals. This targets Iran's largest non-oil related export and further degrades the regime's ability to fund terror and instability in the Middle East," it said. "The Iranian regime's announcement today that it intends to expand its nuclear program is in defiance of international norms and a blatant attempt to hold the hostage. Its threat to renew nuclear work that could shorten the time to develop a nuclear weapon underscores the continuing challenge the Iranian regime poses to peace and security worldwide," the statement further said. The US urged the international community to hold Iran "accountable" for its threat to expand its nuclear programme, adding that Washington's allies and partners have been jointly fighting to "counter Iranian aggression." "The United States is committed to denying the Iranian regime all paths to a nuclear weapon. We will continue to impose maximum pressure on the regime until it abandons its destabilising ambitions. We call on the international community to hold the Iranian regime accountable for its threat to expand its nuclear program," the statement said. "We have acted with countries from nearly every continent to disrupt Iran's illicit oil shipping operations. The European Union passed new sanctions against Iranian entities in response to two foiled terror plots last year. Other nations have responded to Iran's malign activity by recalling ambassadors, expelling Iranian diplomats, eliminating visa-free travel, or denying landing rights to Mahan Air," it added. The US would continue to apply "maximum pressure" on Iran until the regime changed its "destructive behaviour, respect the rights of the Iranian people and return to the negotiating table." Meanwhile, Iran on Wednesday announced partial withdrawal from the landmark nuclear deal signed with powers, a year after the US unilaterally withdrew from the agreement. The partial withdrawal would mean that Iran would stop exporting enriched uranium stocks as against what was stipulated by the 2015 agreement. Tehran warned that the remaining signatories -- the UK, France, Germany, China, and Russia -- had 60 days before it would resume high-level enrichment of uranium. Ties between the US and Iran soured after Washington pulled out from the Iran nuclear deal last year. Since then, Washington slapped a multitude of sanctions on Tehran, citing the latter's support to state-sponsored terrorism and conflicts. The US also recently announced that no fresh sanction waivers will be issued for Iranian oil imports to eight countries, including India. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The second day of the sea phase of the Indo-French Naval exercise "Varuna" on Thursday saw increased participation of fighter aircraft, helicopters and coordination exercises between ships of both the navies. The day commenced with submarine exercise with dedicated 'maritime reconnaissance phase' and 'ship phase' detecting the submerged submarine. Air defence exercise between the task group of Delhi and Paris progressed with a larger number of fighters participating from both sides. To enhance the complexity of air defence, controls of the fighters were handed over to the destroyers of each group by the respective aircraft carriers. ADEX for the day terminated with the MiGs of INS Vikramaditya guiding the Rafale fighter jets from the aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle in a planned firing exercise on Pigeon Island. While the airborne units were engaged in combat, the fleet support ships of both the groups undertook token fueling during underway replenishment to evaluate the nuances of both the navies in a coordinated support role. The day ended with a combined coordinated gunnery firing exercise on the Banshee, an air-launched target, wherein the ships of both groups joined together to exhibit the might of their weaponry. The first phase of the Indo-French joint exercise began off Goa's coast on May 1 and is scheduled to culminate on May 10. The second phase, on the other hand, is slated to be held in May-end near Djibouti. . (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) As David Syms, an alleged partner and director of AgustaWestland "middleman" Christian Michel's firm, failed to appear before a special CBI court today, the court issued fresh summons against him and two other firms -- Global Services FZE and Global Trade and Commerce Limited - to appear before it on September 18. Tihar jail authorities also presented Michel before the court today. During the course of hearing, the court directed Tihar jail authorities to file a reply on the contentions of Michel, who claimed that he is being fed only boiled vegetables in jail and has lost 16 kilograms as a result of this. The court said that after hearing the reply, it will pass necessary directions to them regarding medical check-up and food to be given to Michel. The matter is slated for hearing tomorrow at 2 pm. The Enforcement Directorate had, on April 4, filed a charge sheet against Michel in the court, in which it claimed to have traced the trail of 70 million Euros that had come allegedly in the form of "kickbacks" in the Rs 3600-crore VVIP chopper deal. In the supplementary charge sheet submitted before Special CBI Judge Arvind Kumar, the agency had named two firms, besides David Syms as an accused in the case. On April 6, after taking cognisance of the supplementary charge sheet filed by the ED in the money laundering case, the court had summoned Syms and two other firms to appear before it today. However, Michel, through his counsel Aljo K Joseph, moved the Delhi court on April 5 claiming that he has not taken any names before the ED. He also alleged that the central leadership was using government agencies to suit their "personal agendas".Joseph also told the court that a copy of the charge sheet was provided to media before it was provided to his client. Michel, who was extradited from the UAE in December last year, is currently lodged in Tihar Jail in connection with the CBI and ED cases against him related to the AgustaWestland deal. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Demanding a CBI inquiry into the Alwar gang-rape, a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) delegation led by Union Minister Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore held a protest at the Collector's office here on Thursday. Speaking to media after the protest, Rathore said, "Police tried to suppress the issue. I'm sure they must have received orders from someone. We want to know whose orders were those. CBI inquiry must be conducted into this. After a prior appointment, we came to meet Collector but he is not present at the office." Continuing his tirade against the incumbent government in the state, he said, "Law and order has been disrupted in the state. A person cannot walk on the streets anymore. Politicians take away the police officials who should be working for the people, with them. Who will protect the people?" Additional District Judge (ADJ) Govind Gupta also visited Alwar today to review the situation. He assured the people that the accused will get a harsh punishment. "So far, 5 people have been arrested in this case. While an accused Chhota Lal is still absconding. He will be arrested soon," he told ANI. Additional Superintendent of Police (SP) Suresh Dukhi said, "Video of the woman should not be circulated. If you receive any video, sender's information should be immediately given to the police." On April 30, a woman was allegedly gang-raped and thrashed while her husband was beaten up by a group of five men in Alwar. Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot has asked DGP Kapil Garg to monitor the probe into the heinous crime. As many as 14 teams have been constituted to nab other absconding culprits. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Amid a deadlock between ruling Conservative Party and opposition Labour Party over Brexit, the United Kingdom is expected to participate in the European Parliament elections slated to be held on May 23, Prime Minister Theresa May's de facto deputy David Lidington said on Wednesday. However, Lidington said that the Member of the European Parliament (MEPs) will not "take their places in Brussels," if the government and Opposition reach an agreement over May's Brexit deal or a cross-party plan, Xinhua News Agency reported. May has been making efforts to push her beleaguered agreement or an alternative withdrawal deal through the British Parliament in a bid to prevent the UK from participating in the EU elections. Negotiations between the Conservatives and Labour took place earlier in the day, but no joint agreement was reached. The talks will resume on Wednesday. The two parties have been in discussions for over a month to try to broker a Brexit deal that can secure majority support in parliament after May's minority government suffered three defeats on her preferred deal this year and was forced to delay Britain's original departure from the EU from March 29 to April 12. Last month, the EU leaders agreed to delay the Brexit process to another six months, with October 31 as the new date for the UK's withdrawal from the European bloc. Meanwhile, a Downing Street spokesperson said that May "deeply regrets" the UK did not exit from the EU as planned on March 29 and recognises "many people felt great frustration that the European elections were going ahead." "But she hopes Parliament will agree to a Brexit plan before MEPs start their session in July," May's spokesperson was quoted by Xinhua as saying. Last week, May had also made bullish efforts to make opposition Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn agree on a cross-party deal for ensuring UK's smooth exit from the EU. The British Prime Minister claimed that she is close to reaching an agreement with Corbyn and the two sides should "put their differences aside" and get a Brexit plan over the line in the House of Commons. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Tribal welfare minister of Andhra Pradesh, Kidari Sravan Kumar resigned from his ministerial post on Thursday. He was given the charge of the ministry on November 11, 2018, after the sudden demise of his father KS Rao. Constitutional requirement mandated him to become a member of any legislative house within six months of taking charge; however, he failed to do so. He contested in the recently concluded assembly elections from Araku constituency, results of which will be announced on May 23. His father represented the Araku assembly constituency and was killed by Maoists on September 23, 2018. Prior to resigning today, Sravan also held discussions with state IT minister Nara Lokesh. Meanwhile, Sravan denied to comment on yesterday's encounter in Odisha, in which one of the accused involved in his father's murder was killed. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Demanding an account of the work done by the BJP in last five years, the Congress candidate from Sultanpur Lok Sabha seat said that the ruling party brought in the narrative on security in ongoing elections to cover up failures of their governance. Sanjay Singh, who is fielded by Congress against BJP heavyweight Maneka Gandhi, claimed that paramilitary forces have suffered maximum casualties under the BJP-led NDA government. "Why there was a need for this narrative focused on security? If you see the measurement of terrorism, then maximum incidents took place in these five years, maximum Jawans of the paramilitary forces died in these five years, the maximum number of Jammu and Kashmir boys joined terror outfits. If their narrative on security was true then why did all this happen? They brought all this to take away people's attention from their narrative for 2014 Lok Sabha polls," the Congress leader told ANI. Singh, who is a sitting Rajya Sabha lawmaker, opined that the BJP's poll strategy witnessed a 360-degree change as they failed to deliver on past promises. "There are a few local as well as national issues in this Lok Sabha election. The national issue is that during the 2014 general election, whatever Prime Minister Narendra Modi said regarding 'acche din', jobs, black money and terrorism, he has not been able to show anything in five years. The people now know the reality of BJP. The BJP's narrative this time has changed 360 degrees. People are thinking that in 2014 they had promised so many things in their manifesto, now in 2019, they should give an account of the work done by them," Sanjay Singh told ANI. The SP-BSP alliance has fielded Chandra Bhadra Singh (Sonu) from the highly priced parliamentary constituency of Uttar Pradesh, which will vote in the sixth phase of national elections on May 12. Citing how both his opponents are from outside Sultanpur, Chandra Bhadra Singh termed the poll battle a "contest between resident and not-residents". "Maneka Gandhi has yet not revealed on what issue she is contesting the Lok Sabha elections. I am a resident of Sultanpur, while these people have come from Delhi and Amethi. It's a contest between resident and not-residents," the BSP leader said. BJP leader and Maneka Gandhi's son, Varun Gandhi is the sitting parliamentarian from the seat. Their party high command swapped seats for the mother-son duo this election as Varun is contesting from Pilibhit, a seat held by Maneka Gandhi. The result for Lok Sabha elections will be announced on May 23. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Answering Mamata Banerjee's continued attacks, Narendra Modi on Thursday said that that he is "immune" to her tirade and can gulp down all the abuses in dictionaries all over the world. Addressing an election rally, he accused the Chief Minister of insulting the Constitution as she refuses to accept him as Prime Minister but takes pride in acknowledging the post of Pakistan's Prime Minister. "Didi is so worried that she talks about sending stones and slapping me. Didi, I am immune to these abuses and am used to them. I can digest all the abuses that are there in the dictionaries all over the world," Narendra Modi said. This election has witnessed a bitter exchange of words between the two leaders, Modi's comments come after Banerjee expressed the want of giving him a "tight slap of democracy" after the Prime Minister accused her party of being 'tolabaaz' (toll collector). "Didi is insulting the Constitution of the country, she is publicly saying that she is not ready to accept the Prime Minister of India as Prime Minister, while she takes pride in accepting Pakistan's Prime Minister as the Prime Minister," Modi said at the rally in Bankura. The rivalry between BJP and TMC has been the talking point in West Bengal with the workers of both party's clashing on several occasions. During his campaign, Modi alleged that the TMC government made efforts to stop his rally, but failed. "The TMC government here put all its weight to stop the BJP rally, but who can stop me from coming to you as your blessings are upon me," the Prime Minister said. Accusing Banerjee of ruining West Bengal, Modi claimed that she is only concerned with her interest and in securing power. "Mamata Banerjee ruined West Bengal in the arrogance of governance, now she is ruining it more after realizing that it is slipping out of her hands. She is not at all concerned with 'maa, mati, manus' but rather concerned with her own interest, of her chair, of her relatives, of her nephew and 'tolabazzs' (toll collectors)," he said. Modi said that Banerjee did not receive his calls after cyclonic storm Fani hit the state. "When cyclone came in West Bengal, I called 'didi' again and again, but because of her ego, she didn't think it was appropriate to talk to Prime Minister. Central government wanted to talk with the officers here and help the state, but 'didi' refused to even hold that meeting," Modi said. The Lok Sabha constituency of Bankura will vote on May 12, while votes will be counted on May 23. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A case was registered against a BSP leader on Thursday for allegedly giving death threats to Uttar Pradesh minister Upendra Tiwari. "We have received a complaint that a BSP leader Satish Chaudhary had telephoned Upendra and hurled abuses at him. He also threatened to kill him," Superintendent of Police Devendra Nath told ANI. A case has been registered and an investigation is underway, the police added. Upendra Tiwari has alleged that Satish Chaudhary, who is the brother of former state minister Ambika Chaudhary, threatened to kill him on March 6 because he had exposed some of BSP leader's alleged illegal activities. "Satish Chaudhary, we all know is a goon and a sand mafia. I exposed him. He has been booked by police in many cases. So now he is threatening to kill me and my family," said Tiwari. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) This was contained in an affidavit filed by the government in the apex court on an application of perjury filed by petitioners against government officials in the Rafale review petition. allegations. In its affidavit, the government said the contentions of the petitioners--Yashwant Sinha and others--that officials made false statement and suppressed evidence while submitting information on decision-making process, offset and pricing of the Rafale deal pursuant to the orders passed by this court is completely "false, baseless and an attempt to intimidate government servants from performing their duty". A Bench of Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi, Justice Sanjay Kishan Kaul and Justice KM Joseph had earlier asked the Centre to file affidavit on petitioners' perjury application. Petitioners had filed the perjury application after the December 14, 2018 judgement of the top court upholding the 36 Rafale jets' deal, seeking initiation of perjury proceedings against officials who allegedly made false statement and suppressed evidence while submitting sealed note before apex court on Rafale deal. The Centre has denied the allegations that there is any suppression of information or presentation of untrue information. The government said the petitioners are seeking to reopen the whole matter by placing reliance on incomplete file notings and media reports. "Media reports cannot form the basis for seeking initiation of 'perjury proceedings' since it is well settled that Courts do not take decisions on the basis of media reports," it added. The government also stated that the mismatch that was found in the some paragraphs of the December, 2018 judgement of the Court in the Rafale case was sought to be corrected by filing of an application the very next day of the judgment and the same is under consideration still. The mismatch, however, does not affect the main Judgement, the centre has stated. "In any case the mismatch does not in any manner either directly or indirectly affect the main judgment and it is not a substantial error as contended since the fact of the matter is that there is no fault found either in the decision-making process or in the matter of pricing as concluded by the CAG in its report submitted subsequent to the judgment," it said. The Centre has also added that on the issue of pricing information, the Centre was not required to share the note on pricing with the petitioners on account of it being classified. "It is denied that there is untruth and suppression in the notes regarding 'decision making process' and 'offsets'. It is denied that Supreme Court was misled in any manner as these are perceptions of the petitioners devoid of merits," the affidavit. The centre reiterated its position on parallel negotiations in this affidavit and stated that the monitoring of the progress by the PMO cannot be construed as interference or parallel negotiations. The government further said that Rafale deal was not the only case where sovereign guarantee has been done away with and previous security agreements with Russian Federation and United States also had letters of comfort. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) District Collector Bhopal has ordered an inquiry to investigate if permission was granted for the three-day camp being held by Namdas Tyagi, also known as Computer Baba, along with other saints. Besides this, the official has sought a probe on the cost of the event as well as the role of Congress leader Digvijaya Singh. Digvijaya had on Tuesday performed a 'havan' in the presence of Tyagi and other sadhus at a 'maha yagna' organised in Bhopal. Tyagi said that the yagna was a form of 'Hat Yoga' to ensure Digvijaya's win in the Lok Sabha elections. He had also accused the BJP of "fooling" the community of seers by using the Ram Mandir issue as a political tool. 'Computer Baba' was appointed as a Minister of State (MoS) under the Shivraj Singh Chouhan government. However, he had openly rebelled against the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) after being denied a ticket to contest elections held in Madhya Pradesh. Bhopal will go to polls in the sixth phase of parliamentary elections on May 12, and counting of votes will take place on May 23. In Bhopal, Digvijaya is contesting against BJP's Sadhvi Pragya Singh Thakur from Bhopal Lok Sabha seat. . (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Congress on Thursday accused the ruling BJP of spreading lies over its president Rahul Gandhi's citizenship and dubbed it as "Bahut Jhooth Party" after the Supreme Court dismissed a plea seeking a ban on Gandhi from contesting polls over his alleged British nationality. "They had brought this issue through Manohar Lal Sharma petition which was dismissed in the court. They raised it through Lal Krishna Advani-led Ethics committee. They set up yet another proxy which went to the Supreme Court. Modi and his government will try to rise from the ashes on this issue," Congress spokesperson Abhishek Manu Singhvi said at a press conference here. Terming Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a "master of disinformation", Singhvi said, "The master of disinformation, MODI, and Bahut Jhooth Party will try to spread disinformation." The Congress leader claimed that the BJP is spreading lies as it foresees defeat in the election. "People of India know that when a citizenship issue is brought in the middle of April-May elections after five years in power with not a shred of legal or factual finding against Rahul Gandhi. We know that you are proving your frustration. The certainty of defeat is imprinted on your heart," he said. Singhvi slammed the PM for dragging former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi's name into election campaigning. "You attacked Rajiv Gandhi on Bofors omitting the mention of the February 4, 2004, judgement. You never appealed (in the court) because you knew there was nothing to appeal. Technically, you appealed after 14 years in 2018, but it was dismissed by the top court," he said. "I cannot imagine how a PM can talk about a PM who was dead 30 years ago and his purported visit on a naval ship. Does this PM not know that nobody can set foot unless it is an official trip? What relation does it have in 2019?" he added. Addressing an election rally in UP on May 4, Modi had hit out at the Congress president, saying: "Your father was termed 'Mr Clean' by his courtiers, but his life ended as 'Bhrashtachari No 1'." Singhvi also accused Modi of spreading lies about a trip by Rajiv Gandhi using a naval ship during his tenure as Prime Minister. He said: "As far as the naval issue is concerned, you (PM Modi) already have the rebuttals coming across the nation from people much more knowledgeable than you - retired admirals. All that proves at the end is (you speak) lies." PM Modi on Wednesday said that INS Virat was used as a "personal taxi" by Gandhi family for 10 days while they were vacationing on an island. Addressing a rally in New Delhi, he had said: "Even Navy personnel were put on service of Rajiv Gandhi and his family while they were vacationing at an island. INS Virat was also stationed at the island for 10 days during that time. At a time when INS Virat was positioned for protection of maritime boundaries, it was sent to take Rajiv Gandhi and his family to an island for their holiday." Singhvi alleged that PM Modi had degraded the dignity of the Prime Minister's office by hurling accusations against Rajiv Gandhi. "It is nothing but attempts to hide his failure. It is an abject acceptance and surrender to defeat. But in the process he has degraded the dignity of the office of the Prime Minister," he concluded. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Two teenagers suspected of opening fire and killing an 18-year-old in STEM High School in suburban Denver earlier this week, made their first appearance in court on Wednesday. Neither of the two former students of the school, identified as Devon Erickson, 18, and Alec McKinney, 16, who were brought handcuffed to court, were formally charged, CNN reported. Eighteen-year-old Kendrick Ray Castillo was killed and eight others sustained injuries in the shooting that took place on Tuesday. Judicial District Attorney George Brauchler was quoted as saying that charges of first-degree murder and attempted murder will certainly be filed against the accused. According to a law enforcement official, Erickson used two handguns from his parents to open fire. Both guns were purchased legally, the source said. Erickson and McKinney are scheduled to appear separately in court on Friday afternoon. However, Brauchler told reporters that prosecutors are still considering whether to try the 16-year-old suspect as an adult or not. On Tuesday, Douglas County Sheriff Tony Spurlock had said the suspects "got deep inside the school" and opened fire at the students in two separate locations. School authorities informed the police as soon as the incident unfolded, and students were immediately evacuated to a safer area. The incident came within a month after Colorado marked the 20th anniversary of the Columbine High School shooting that left 12 students and a teacher dead in 1999. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Dr GR Ravindranath, General Secretary of Doctor's Association for Social Equality, on Thursday demanded a fair inquiry into the deaths of three patients who were on ventilator support, allegedly due to a power cut, at a government hospital here. Speaking to ANI on the incident at Rajaji hospital, Ravindranath said: "I demand a fair inquiry into this accident. A retired judge should be appointed for the same, only then will we be able to find out the truth. Reportedly, the incident happened due to a power cut. The administration did not take any steps to restore power immediately." The deceased have been identified as Mallika, Palaniyammal and Raveendran. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Thursday issued a notice to Congress supporter Computer Baba after Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) filed a complaint against him alleging that he was fanning communal sentiments while campaigning for Congress' Bhopal Lok Sabha candidate Digvijaya Singh. Computer Baba has been asked to file a reply within 24 hours. This comes after Namdas Tyagi, alias Computer Baba organised a three-day camp along with Singh and other saints here. District Collector Bhopal, Sudam Pandharinath Khade also ordered an inquiry to investigate if a permission was granted to Tyagi to organise the camp. Besides this, Khade had also sought a probe on the cost of the event as well as the role of Congress leader Digvijaya Singh in it. During the three-day camp, Digvijaya had on Tuesday also performed a 'havan' in the presence of Tyagi and other saints at a 'maha yagna' organised in Bhopal. Tyagi said that the yagna was a form of 'Hat Yoga' to ensure Digvijaya's win in the Lok Sabha elections. He had also accused the BJP of "fooling" the community of seers by using the Ram Mandir issue as a political tool. 'Computer Baba' was appointed as a Minister of State (MoS) under the Shivraj Singh Chouhan government. However, he had openly rebelled against the BJP after being denied a ticket to contest elections held in Madhya Pradesh. Bhopal will go to polls in the sixth phase of parliamentary elections on May 12, and counting of votes will take place on May 23. In Bhopal, Digvijaya is contesting against BJP's Sadhvi Pragya Singh Thakur from Bhopal Lok Sabha seat. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The US House Judiciary Committee on Wednesday voted to hold Attorney General William Barr in contempt of Congress, fuelling a simmering dispute between the Democrats and Republicans over Special Counsel Robert Mueller's report on alleged Russian collusion in 2016 presidential election. The committee voted along party lines, 24 to 16, and the Democrats moved a formal resolution that the House should hold Barr in contempt for failing to adhere with a subpoena on releasing Mueller's full and unredacted report on his Russia probe, The Hill reported. While House leaders backed the contempt resolution, it is not clear when it will advance to the floor of the House. After the vote, House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jerrold Nadler said that the development would happen "rapidly" and "soon." Prior to the contempt vote, President Donald Trump had asserted executive privilege over Mueller's report and its underlying evidence. On Monday, while scheduling the vote, Nadler had said that he proposed to hold Barr in contempt after he sent a letter to the Justice Department, which refused to provide Mueller's full report. The committee had given a deadline of 9 am (local time) till May 7 for Barr to comply, failing which contempt proceedings would be initiated against the Attorney General. While Mueller found no Russian collusion in Trump's campaign for the 2016 presidential elections during his 22-month long investigation, he fell short of completely exonerating the incumbent US President when it came to obstruction of justice, Barr had said while releasing the redacted report last month. Barr had clarified before the releasing of the initiation report, which Mueller prepared after concluding his probe, that he will redact certain information from the document. However, the Democrats have demanded the full version, claiming Barr has not presented the correct version of the investigation. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) India and Turkey on Wednesday vowed to strengthen economic relations with an aim of reaching USD 10 billion bilateral trade by 2020. Turkey's Deputy Foreign Minister Sedat Onal, who is on a three-day visit to India since May 7, held talks with Gitesh A Sarma, Secretary (West) under the institutional mechanism of foreign office consultations. "Deputy Foreign Minister Onal and Secretary (West) held cordial discussions on various aspects of bilateral ties including examining opportunities for enhancing trade and investment relations. Currently, the bilateral trade stands at around USD 8.6 billion with a target to reach USD 10 billion by 2020," the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a statement. Other aspects such as enhanced cultural interaction, tourism, people-to-people contacts were also discussed, it added. India and Turkey reviewed the current situation in their respective regions and also exchanged views on several multilateral issues. "The visit of Deputy Foreign Minister Onal is part of the regular exchange between the two countries," the statement said. Onal had earlier visited India as part of the delegation of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in May 2017. "India and Turkey enjoy close, friendly and deep-rooted ties dating back to several centuries and share civilizational links. The recent political exchanges have imparted fresh momentum to our bilateral ties and opened several new avenues for cooperation," the MEA statement said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The UN Command on Thursday approved the initial phase of two additional peace trails in the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) to encourage inter-Korean exchanges, according to the United States Forces Korea. South Korea announced its plan to create peace trails in the southern side of the DMZ last month, reported Xinhua. Three border towns, namely Goseong, Cheorwon, and Paju were identified for the project. The approval came before North Korea launched two short-range missiles from the Sino-ri area on Thursday evening, merely five days after its last tests. Previously, a partial withdrawal of guard posts along with the excavation of the remains of soldiers killed during the Korean War was undertaken in a bid to ease military tensions across the border. Meanwhile, civilians are allowed to visit the 7.9 km-long Goseong peace trail on a trial basis. While the opened trail does not include the DMZ section, the Cheorwon and Paju trails are slated to include routes inside the South Korean side of the DMZ. The statement added that once completed, this will take the count of UN Command-approved educational sites to 16 in total. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday said Prime Minister Narendra Modi did not talk about Lord Ram during his five-year term, adding that the latter and his party used the Lord's name for electoral benefit. "Is Ram BJP's election agent", said Banerjee while addressing an election rally here. Also present at the event was Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu. Who claimed that Banerjee would act as a kingmaker in the formation of next government at the Centre. Campaigning for her party's candidate, Banerjee said, "BJP did not remember Ram for five years. Prime Minister forgets that there is Ram but remembers him only during elections. Is Ram his election agent?" Banerjee also cornered Modi on Chowkidar campaign and said, "He was never a Chaiwala. He has lied to people. Now he thinks of himself as a Chowkidar. What kind of Chowkidar is he?" Asserting that she respects Central forces, Banerjee also questioned BJP's demand of deploying central forces in West Bengal and said, "During Karnataka and Tamil Nadu elections no central forces were required but they said that hundred per cent CRPF presence is required in West Bengal, we want to ask them why?" Banerjee, who in past has also held the charge of rail ministry also criticised the departments functioning under the NDA government and said, "Kharagpur is known as rail ground but unfortunately these days Indian railways do not function properly." Addressing the same rally, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandra Babu Naidu showered praises on his West Bengal counterpart and called her 'Bengal's tigress'. "These Lok Sabha elections are very crucial for West Bengal. She is Bengal's tigress and the new Prime Minister is going to come under her leadership. Mamta is going to play an important role in building India," stated Naidu. He also questioned policies of Central government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and accused him of destroying democracy, "Did anybody get any benefit from PM Modi's government? Prime Minister Modi is coming here for campaigning but what did Central government do for Bengal. Narendra Modi wants to destroy democracy. It is a time all of us should join together and Prime Minister should go back from Delhi to Gujarat." Banerjee and Naidu were addressing a joint poll rally here, a day ahead of culmination of campaigning for the phase of Lok Sabha elections. Eight seats from the State including Bankura, Medinipur and Purulia will go to polls in the penultimate phase on May 12. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A square in the central Israeli city of Petah Tikvah will be officially renamed after United States President Donald Trump on July 4, the city's mayor has said. Earlier this week, Rami Greenberg said he has decided to name the square adjacent to the City Hall after Trump because of "his unqualified support for the State of Israel," the Times of Israel reported. The mayor added that he will invite the US ambassador to Israel, David Friedman, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, government ministers, and other renown public figures to attend the renaming ceremony. Last month, Netanyahu had said he would name a new community in the Golan Heights after the US President to thank him for recognising Israel's sovereignty over the area, which Israel captured from Syria during the Six-Day War in 1967 and annexed in 1981. The United States became the first country to recognise the Golan Heights as part of Israel on March 25. On April 23, in a video message posted on YouTube, Netanyahu had said, "After the Passover holiday, I intend to bring to the government a resolution calling for a new community on the Golan Heights named after President Donald J. Trump." On April 30, Israel's Foreign Affairs and Information Minister, Yisrael Katz said that a train stop in the Old City of Jerusalem would be named after Trump. Katz tweeted, "Here, in the Old City of Jerusalem, we will build the Western Wall & Temple Mount train station. It will be named after @realDonaldTrump, who made history and recognised Jerusalem as the capital of Israel." "The official announcement will take place on Israel's Independence Day," he added. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A Delhi court on Thursday granted bail to Congress leader Jairam Ramesh in connection with the criminal defamation case filed against him by Vivek Doval, son of Security Adviser (NSA) Ajit Doval. Ramesh appeared before the Patiala House Court in connection with the case filed against him, the editor and a reporter of Caravan Magazine. The Congress leader was granted bail on personal bond and surety of Rs 20,000 each. Paresh Nath, the editor of Caravan and reporter Koshal Shroff have already been granted bail by the court. "The matter is sub-judice and I won't say anything on the matter other than the fact that I'm a private person and have not been involved in any are of public life. It was a direct attack on me and my family. I will keep coming till justice is served," said Vivek Doval. "They have made so many allegations against me without any credible proof," he added. On January 21, Vivek had filed a criminal defamation case against Ramesh and the two journalists, contending that they had caused "irreparable damage" to his reputation "through calculated insinuations and innuendos." Vivek alleged that Ramesh and the two scribes committed the offence of defamation punishable under Section 500 of IPC (which provides for simple imprisonment for a term which may extend to two years, or with fine, or with both) read with Section 120-B IPC (criminal conspiracy). Vivek had filed the complaint against the magazine for the alleged defamatory article and Ramesh for using the content to defame him on wrong facts. The Caravan article claimed that Vivek was running a hedge fund whose promoters are of dubious antecedents. The next date of hearing on the matter in the court is May 27. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) 'Suits' star Katherine Heigl, along with her mother, launched their first 'Posh Closet' for charity with Poshmark, a social commerce platform. On Wednesday, the two launched the closet sale to push up their 'Jason Debus Heigl Foundation', a non-profit animal welfare organisation dedicated to Katherine's late brother. The mother-daughter duo's closet sale opens today while the second sale is expected somewhere in mid-May. The sale comprises of 150 items, incorporating heels from Gucci, knits by Diane von Furstenberg and St. John. In a statement, Katherine said, "We are big believers in the power of family and giving back, and are excited to celebrate both through this special partnership with Poshmark." It added, "We were drawn to the community and connections that thrive on Poshmark, and my mom and I couldn't think of a better way to share our style [and] celebrate Mother's Day." The actor also used her star power to urge lawmakers to make factory farms more ethical. The American Cancer Society also honoured Heigl for raising awareness on cancer-related issues. Serena Williams is one of the board members of Poshmark who is now joined by Heigl. Serena recently shared some collection from her daughter's closet. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) West Indian all-rounder Keiron Pollard has been named as the marquee player by Trinbago Knight Riders (TKR) for the upcoming Carribean Premier League (CPL), marking the player's first appearance for his home franchise. "We are delighted to welcome Pollard back home and it's great to continue our efforts to bring as many Trini boys home as possible. I can't wait for the reaction of the fans when Pollard takes the field at our opening game on September 4," Venky Mysore, Director of TKR said in an official statement on Wednesday (local time). Pollard played for Barbados Tridents from 2013 to 2017 and for St Lucia Stars in 2018. TKR has won the CPL title three times and Pollard would be hoping to spring an inspiring performance in the upcoming edition of the tournament. Pollard has played 474 T20Is in total and has a vast amount of experience of playing in the shortest format. The rest of the TKR squad will be decided at the CPL players draft, which takes place on May 22, 2019. This year's CPL will be held from September 4 to October 8. Pollard is currently playing in the ongoing edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) for Mumbai Indians. Earlier, Chris Gayle also marked his return to his home franchise of Jamaica Tallahwahs as the team named him as their marquee player. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Snapping back at Prime Minister Narendra Modi, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday challenged him to prove coal mafia allegations made by him on TMC leaders else do "100 sit-ups holding his ears" for lying. Mamata, who was addressing a public rally here, said if the allegations by Modi were proved, she will withdraw all 42 TMC candidates from Lok Sabha seats in West Bengal. "I challenge you (Modi) if you can prove your allegations that even one of us is part of coal mafia, I will withdraw all my 42 candidates. If you are lying, you have to hold your ears and do a hundred sit-ups in front of the public," she said. Mamata's retaliation came hours after Modi while addressing public rallies in Bankura and Purulia districts said that TMC was linked with the coal mafia. "You know better how Trinamool's mafia raj is continuing in coal mines here. Trinamool leaders are making money while mine workers are deprived of their remuneration," Modi had said at a rally in Bankura. Eight seats from the State including Bankura, Medinipur and Purulia will go to polls in the penultimate phase on May 12. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) (ANSA) - Pesaro, May 9 - Deputy Premier and Interior Minister Matteo Salvini said Thursday that he will refuse to assign a port for a Navy ship to dock in after it rescued dozens of migrants in waters off Libya. "There is a Navy ship that picked up 40 immigrants in Libyan waters. I won't give it a port," said the League leader, who has spearheaded the government's tough stance of closing ports to vessels that have rescued migrants. "Why in Libyan waters? Yesterday a Libyan coast guard patrol saved over 200 migrants and took them back. "We either all work in the same direction or we don't because you can't have a interior minister who closes the ports and someone else who picks up migrants. "It's true that some issues need to be clarified within the government". All the superhero fans have a reason to rejoice as Disney has hinted that Marvel Studios will likely unveil the next set of films from its cinematic universe sometime around this summer. Disney CEO Bob Iger touched upon the plans during the studio's quarterly earnings call on Wednesday, reported Variety. However, Iger declined to reveal any other details about the masked heroes for the next phase of Marvel films. Although, he said 'Avengers: Endgame' provided some clues regarding what the future of the cinematic universe could look like. "There are huge opportunities. There are many, many different directions that we can go," Iger said of the possible sequels, spinoffs and superhero films to come. Although the Disney chief was tight-lipped on what heroes the moviegoers can expect to see saving the world in future films, but "there are more possibilities beyond it," Iger promised. The upcoming projects include movies on 'Shang-Chi', the first Asian-American-led comic book film, and 'The Eternals', an epic fantasy about a race of aliens. Iger stated that when Disney bought Marvel, they estimated there were nearly 8,000 characters in the comic book universe which could possibly be converted into future projects. Marvel also has new Disney Plus series featuring Loki, Falcon, Winter Soldier, Scarlet Witch and Vision. Disney Plus will also offer these Marvel movies to its subscribers. 'Avengers: Endgame' will debut on the service on December 11, this year. The chairman also suggested other exciting opportunities beyond film and television to bring Marvel characters to life. One such area could be Disney's theme parks in China. "At some point, we're going to get very ambitious about what we do with Marvel at Shanghai Disneyland," Iger said. Disney Plus will include all of Disney's movies and TV series, content from Fox and new original series made specifically for the streaming platform. The streaming service launches on November 12 and will also showcase all the new High School Musical series. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A day after Congress chief Rahul Gandhi claimed that farm loans of former chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan's kin got waived under the Kamal Nath government, Chouhan hit back at the Congress chief saying his kin had not filed an application for a loan waiver. Speaking to media here, Chouhan alleged that farmers were being betrayed in the name of a loan-waiver. He also claimed that Gandhi doesn't give due respect to Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath. "Rahul Gandhi had said that even my brother's farm loan has been waived off. In application forms that were presented before Panchayat in Jait, it is written that my brother Rohit hasn't even filled application for farm loan waiver," he said. "It was stated in the Congress 'vachan-patra' that loans upto Rs 2 lakhs of all the farmers taken from cooperative and banks would be waived off. It was stated that all the previous and ongoing loans would be waived off. But Congress betrayed farmers and their order regarding the loan waiver is nothing more than an eye-wash," said Shivraj. "The farmers are worried and have become hopeless because Congress has deviated from what it promised. Now when I say this, Rahul Gandhi gets angry with me," he said. "Kamal Nath and Rahul Gandhi claim that loans were waived off within 2 hours. The order only waives short term crop loans, what about mid-term and long term crop loans? What about horticulture, sericulture, and other farmers? The Congress has simply deceived the farmers," Chouhan asserted. The BJP leader was on Tuesday handed a list of 21 lakh farmers whose farm loans have been waived by the state government. A day after, Congress workers accused Chouhan of lying about the policies of the Kamal Nath-led government in the state. As a mark of protest, the workers sent a package containing eye drops, almonds and 'chyawanprash' to Chouhan in order to cure "memory loss, defective eyesight, and impaired hearing". Polling was held in Madhya Pradesh for 13 of its 29 parliamentary seats in the fourth and fifth phases of Lok Sabha election. Polling for the rest of the 16 seats will be held in the sixth and seventh phases on May 12 and 19, respectively. 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.) South Korea's Presidential Office on Thursday said that North Korea's latest round of projectiles launch is "not helpful at all" in improving inter-Korean relations and easing tensions on the Korean Peninsula. This comes after South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff announced that North Korea launched two new projectiles from Kusong on Thursday. The projectiles are believed to be short-range missiles, according to Yonhap News Agency. Cheong Wa Dae or South Korea's Presidential Office expressed serious concerns regarding the fresh tests, which come at a time when representatives from USA and Japan are in South Korea to discuss efforts towards reviving stalled denuclearisation talks. The latest projectiles launch comes just five days after North Korea launched multiple projectiles from Wonsan. Thursday's projectiles dropped into the East Sea after launching from the country's northwestern region. North Korea's projectiles launches are largely being seen as the country's displeasure at the breakdown of the second US-North Korea summit in Vietnam in February this year. In the wake of the latest projectiles launch, the Presidential Office announced that the head of South Korea's National Security Office, Chung Eui-yong, is "keeping close tabs" on the situation, along with communicating with the Ministry of National Defence and the Joint Chiefs of Staff via video conference from the national crisis management center. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The police on Thursday arrested one more accused in Alwar gang-rape case. A woman was allegedly gang-raped by five men while her husband was beaten up in Thanagaji area of Alwar district in Rajasthan on April 26. A video shot by an alleged accused, reportedly, went viral on social media. According to the police, the victim and her husband were going from village Lalwadi to Taalvraksh on a bike, when at about five men aged between 20-25 years, stopped them and took the couple to deserted sand dunes. The husband was allegedly assaulted and tied up while the woman was gang-raped. The culprits, reportedly, also threatened the couple not to report the matter to the police or they will make the video, public. The accused also demanded money from the couple which was given to them but later when they again demanded money, the couple reported the matter to the police on May 2. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Supreme Court on Thursday asked the Staff Selection Commission (SSC) to declare the 2017 results for recruitment in central government jobs. A bench comprising Justices S A Bobde and Abdul Nazir also constituted a seven-member committee, headed by retired Supreme Court judge GS Singhvi, to suggest measures to make the conduct of entrance exams for jobs and admission in educational institutions foolproof. The panel would include former Infosys chairman Nandan Nilekani and scientist Vijay Bhatkar. Last month, the Supreme Court asked the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to file a detailed status report on the investigation into the 2017 SSC examination paper leak case. In its August 31, 2018 order, the court had stayed the 2017 results. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Senior advocate H S Phoolka on Thursday claimed that instructions to "kill" during the anti-Sikh riots that took place in Delhi in 1984 had come directly from the Prime Minister's Office. "There is enough evidence on record to show that in 1984 when the Sikhs were being killed, the instructions were coming directly from the Prime Minister's Office and the Army was not called in... We have placed our evidence on record before the Nanavati Commission as well as Mishra Commission," Phoolka told ANI here. "Shanti Bhushan was Law Minister during Morarji Desai government. Shanti Bhushanji has given his own affidavit before the Nanavati Commission. He says on November 1 morning he went to Narasimha Rao, who was Union Home Minister at that time and he asked Narasimha Rao to immediately call the Army as innocent citizens are being killed... Narasimha Rao agreed with him," Phoolka explained. "Narasimha Rao called on the RAX phone, which is a direct phone between the ministers. And he says Narasimha Rao tried to convince the other person on the line to call the Army," he added. Phoolka went on to add, "After some time, Narasimha Rao put down the phone and sat quietly. Shanti Bhushanji says he was there for about two-three minutes, Narasimha Rao didn't say a word. So, Shanti Bhushanji said he got up and went away." Phoolka said the then Prime Minister Charan Singh along with Devi Lal, Sharad Yadav and Ram Vilas Paswan asked the President to immediately call the Army. "So, the President wanted to call the Army, Home Minister wanted to call the Army, who is the one who can veto them? It's the Prime Minister's Office. We have placed evidence on record that the Intelligence Bureau (IB) officers were even monitoring it," Phoolka said. "On November 1, an Army unit came and that Army unit in Safdarjung Enclave was trying to save the Sikhs who were under attack. One officer came and stopped them. He said there are no orders for the Army to move in. After 15-20 minutes that Army unit was directed to report to the cantonment. When they went to the cantonment, they were asked to confine to barracks and their arms were taken away," he added. "5,000 Army personnel were available in Delhi on November 1, 1984. If that Army could have been deployed, it could have saved 2,000 lives. This was directly the Prime Minister's Office, who was managing and controlling it," he said. Talking about the alleged involvement of Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath, Phoolka said, "Even Kamal Nath came to Rakab Ganj Gurdwara. Gurdwara was burned, two Sikhs were burned alive over there. Kamal Nath told the police that he was sent by the Prime Minister. It is in the police report that Kamal Nath came there and said he had been sent by the Prime Minister to see if any Hindu has been kept as a captive there. Despite the presence of Kamal Nath, the police fired on Sikhs inside the Gurdwara." Phoolka said that "due to the sheer power of the government and their influence, they have suppressed all this evidence." "But there is enough material to show, it was directly Rajiv Gandhi's office, which was giving the directions to kill the Sikhs," he added. The anti-Sikh riots took place after the assassination of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) US Secretary of State Michael R Pompeo has abruptly postponed his visit to Greenland as he needs to return to Washington early, the US Department of State said on Thursday. "Secretary Pompeo must postpone his visit to Greenland due to a need for the secretary to be in Washington, DC, today," State Department spokeswoman Mortgan Ortagus said in a statement cited by Sputnik. Pompeo was scheduled to visit Greenland on Thursday and hold talks with Prime Minister Kim Kilsen after visiting London a day before. Earlier, the State Department had announced that Pompeo would visit Finland, Germany, Great Britain, and Greenland from May 5 to 9. However, on Tuesday he cancelled his trip to Berlin because of "problems in the field of international security." Instead, after meeting British Foreign Minister Jeremy Hunt in London on Wednesday, Pompeo made an unannounced visit to Iraq and held talks with Prime Minister Adil Abd al-Mahdi, President Barham Salih and other senior officials in his four-hour visit to the country. Pompeo's visit comes days after the US had announced that it was sending USS Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group, Air Force bomber task force and B-52 bombers to the Middle East in response to Iran's "troubling and escalatory indications and warnings." It also comes hours after Iran said it would announce on Wednesday on reducing its commitments to the nuclear deal or the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) signed in 2015. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) It has been two months since the Pulwama terror attack rattled the nation. The anger within the nation still prevails. In retaliation to the ghastly attack, a hotel owner in Prayagraj has barred the entry of Pakistani nationals. A poster put outside Hotel Milan Palace clearly reads, "Entry of Pakistani nationals restricted". "We had put up the notice after Pulwama attack. No Pakistani has come here but even if they come we won't allow them rooms. We're protesting in a way we can," the hotel manager told ANI. In February, a terrorist affiliated to Pakistani based Jaish-e-Mohammed terror group rammed an IDF laden vehicle in a CRPF convoy, killing 40 personnel. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Prince Harry is back to work. A day after the Duke and Duchess of Sussex introduced their newborn to the world, Harry returned to his royal duties. On Thursday, the Duke of Sussex travelled to The Hague, Netherlands, for the one-year countdown to the 2020 Invictus Games, E Online reports. "I'm absolutely thrilled that many more injured, wounded and sick servicemen and women will have the opportunity to continue the journey to their recovery," Harry said in a speech during the event. During the event, the new dad even received a sweet gift for little Archie from Princess Margriet of The Netherlands - an adorable onesie with the Invictus Games logo printed on it. During a photo-call on Wednesday, Meghan Markle and Prince Harry, introduced their newborn to the world. The royal couple later announced that they have named their son: Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor. The two introduced their newborn to the world inside St George's Hall at Windsor Castle, where they celebrated their wedding reception just a year ago. "It's magic, it's pretty amazing. I have the two best guys in the world so I'm really happy," Meghan said during the photo-call. Meghan Markle gave birth to her and Prince Harry's first child, on May 6, 2019, in the early hours of the day. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Supreme Court on Thursday dismissed a plea of former BSF constable Tej Bahadur Yadav challenging the rejection of his nomination by the Election Commission from Varanasi Lok Sabha constituency. A bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi said, "We don't find any merit to entertain this petition." On May 1, Yadav's candidature was rejected by the returning officer after he failed to submit a certificate on whether or not he was dismissed from the service for corruption or disloyalty to the government. Lawyer Prashant Bhushan, appearing for Yadav, said his client was being harassed for complaining about food when he was in the Border Security Force (BSF). Samajwadi Party had fielded Yadav as its candidate against Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Varanasi on April 29. Prior to that, he was in the fray as an independent candidate. Prime Minister Modi was elected from Varanasi in the 2014 Lok Sabha elections, defeating AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal by a margin of over 3.37 lakh votes. Varanasi will go to polls in the last phase of the general elections on May 19. The counting of votes will be held on May 23. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) PESARO - Deputy Premier and Interior Minister Matteo Salvini said Thursday that he will refuse to assign a port for a Navy ship to dock in after it rescued dozens of migrants in waters off Libya. "There is a Navy ship that picked up 40 immigrants in Libyan waters. I won't give it a port," said the League leader, who has spearheaded the government's tough stance of closing ports to vessels that have rescued migrants. "Why in Libyan waters? Yesterday a Libyan coast guard patrol saved over 200 migrants and took them back. "We either all work in the same direction or we don't because you can't have a interior minister who closes the ports and someone else who picks up migrants. "It's true that some issues need to be clarified within the government". The Navy said Thursday that it rescued a group of migrants because the boat they were aboard "was taking on water and, therefore, was about to sink". It added that the people on board did not have lifejackets and so were "in imminent danger of losing their lives". It said the rescue by the Cigala Fulgosi ship took place some 75km from the Libyan coast and was conducted "in strict adherence to national and international regulations". It said 36 people were picked up, including two women and eight children. The Supreme Court on Thursday dismissed a plea objecting to the Tamil Nadu Government's decision to release all the seven convicts involved in the assassination of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi. Dismissing the plea, Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi said: "We don't find any merit in your petition." The plea was filed by the families of those killed along with the former Prime Minister. The All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazagham (AIADMK)-led Tamil Nadu government in 2014 decided to release all the convicts. In May 1991, Rajiv Gandhi was assassinated by a Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) suicide bomber during an election rally in Sriperumbudur in Tamil Nadu. The attack also left 14 other people killed. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Supreme Court on Thursday expressed its willingness to meet with the wife of former senior police officer Gaurav Dutt who allegedly committed suicide and blamed West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for the extreme step in his suicide note. A bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi said it will interact with Sreyashi Dutt in July to ascertain why she wants to withdraw her plea for an independent inquiry into the death of her husband. Sreyashi, the wife of the retired West Bengal cadre IPS officer from the 1986 batch, has sought to withdraw her petition, saying she was not in a proper mental condition when she agreed to file the case. Dutt had accused Banerjee in his suicide note of pushing him to take the extreme step by "victimising" him for over 10 years. He was suspended and sent on compulsory waiting in 2010 following allegations of sexual assault of a male constable. He was found with a slit wrist at his home in Kolkata on February 19. Dutt had taken voluntary retirement last year. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Indian residents are expanding largely to be amongst the fastest growing millionaires', with 350,000 millionaires joining the club with an annual growth of 20 percent. Moreover, in 2018, Mercedes & BMW saw their best half yearly sales. After fashion & lifestyle, accessories (watches) and cars; Indian HNIs are looking at luxury interior design & its allied products. Currently, the imported kitchen market in India stands at 55 percent with Germany, Italy, Japan & America being the leading exporters. The global built-in Kitchen Appliances Market is estimated to grow at 15 per cent annually and reach $7 Billion by 2022, while the premium appliance market is growing at 20 percent annually. Based on the above statistics, it is evident that with the paradigm shift in the contemporary interior design style, India has an enormous potential of accepting and implementing world-class appliances. With this enormous paradigm shift towards luxury interiors and modular kitchens, Sub-Zero Wolf, the iconic American brand, entered the Indian market in 2009 with its first retail outlet in Mumbai and though it's premium dealers. With an experience centre opening soon in Delhi, Sub-Zero wolf is today positioned as India's best luxury kitchen appliances brand in India. Sub-Zero Wolf houses a plethoric range of premium appliances that deliver efficiency along with a flair of elegance and exuberant luxury, addressing the needs and aspirations of the most discerning chefs and households worldwide. When it comes to building superior products for your household, Sub-Zero Wolf takes nothing for granted. The materials used are of premium grade with efficient & innovative technologies blended with state of the art craftsmanship, matching the calibre of a world's finest home. With its iconic design, fine quality & a no compromise attitude, Sub-Zero Wolf stands at the forefront of science of food preservation and of precise cooking, making for a preferred choice by chefs and end-consumers alike. Sub-Zero is not only a refrigerator - but a food preservation system Sub-Zero invented advanced food preservation technology that merges seamlessly with a dual refrigeration system - controlled by microprocessors and magnetic sealed doors. Thus, it maintains an ideal temperature of refrigeration and the perfect level of moist which is essential to keep the food fresh for consumption. Its patented, NASA inspired air purification system scrubs the air off odours, mould, bacteria, viruses and ethylene gas. The magnetic sealed doors prevent air leaks and reduce energy consumption. Furthermore, freshness & taste of the water is preserved by the advance water filtration that reduces particles & pollutants, while the ease of maintenance access is achieved by the flip up grille. Sub-Zero products are built and individually tested for exceptionally long life - 20 years or more, making them an investment to your luxury interiors. From professional kitchens to your home - Wolf believes in the power of a home-cooked meal In year 2000, Wolf became a part of Sub-Zero, bringing two iconic American brands together to create the ultimate cooking experience for luxury lifestyle consumers. Wolf offers highly specialized kitchen equipment with extremely user-friendly technology that gives professional cooking control to its consumers. For more than eight decades, Wolf has been a trusted companion for commercial and residential kitchens. It offers various cooking appliances like built-in convection oven, microwave, professional indoor and outdoor grills, modular cooktops & induction tops, coffee systems etc. The Gourmet mode is the oven's intuitive digital technology that senses the amount and size of each dish, and automatically adjusts all the details of cooking to eliminate guesswork for sought-after results every time. Each and every Wolf appliance is rigorously stress-tested to perform for over twenty years of daily use and is backed by the strongest warranty in the industry. From crusty artisan breads to grilled, glorious steaks, Wolf equips cook inside you with the confidence to create the meals that the most delicious memories are made of. In any modular kitchen set up, a built-in space for kitchen appliances should be kept in mind. Sub-Zero's 30 models of different sizes and configurations is offering design flexibility unmatched by any other brand. So, it not only keeps foods magnificently fresh, it brings the whole kitchen tastefully up to date. Wolf offers three distinct design styles - transitional, contemporary, and professional, relating to the design language of the interior designer and the end-consumer. With decade upon decade of design, engineering, and under the brand's apron, it's no wonder that Wolf products can stack both vertically and horizontally to suit any space. The appliances are aesthetically designed to offer premium finish and its professional outlook, with intelligible integrated technology to be used by any member of the family. With Sub-Zero Wolf helping its luxury lifestyle consumers to #reclaimthekitchen, the products serve as a centrepiece of the kitchen in India's tastefully designed homes. Discover your next kitchen by stepping into the Sub-Zero Wolf Experience Centre. 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.) Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao recently met his Kerala and Karnataka counterparts Pinarayi Vijayan and HD Kumaraswamy to discuss the formation of a federal front government post the results of Lok Sabha elections. Andhra Pradesh CM N Chandrababu Naidu's efforts to form a third front government excluding the two principal political parties - the Congress and the BJP - also seem to be picking up pace with the conclusion of five of the seven phases of the general election. "We are working towards forming a federal front of regional and secular parties and once the results are out, the federal front will be a reality," said TRS leader Abid Rasool Khan. Terming TRS president Rao a "catalyst" in the whole process, Khan said, "KCR is acting as a catalyst and taking it upon himself to reach out to other parties. He is working for a cause and does not have a political mission." To a question on Andhra CM also aiming at a non-Congress, non-BJP front, Khan said that no political party trusted Naidu who had a history of letting down his allies. "Be it the BJP or the Congress, Naidu has always let down his allies. Recently, he betrayed the Congress by not aligning with the party in the parliamentary elections. On the other hand, KCR always stands by what he says." Congress and BJP, however, term attempts at forming a third front, fraught with impracticalities considering the differences among various leaders. "These parties talk about friendship in Delhi and at the same time are fighting against each other in Kerala, West Bengal and other states. The public will never accept such leaders," said Telangana BJP leader G Kishan Reddy. He also said that instead of concentrating on the issues of Telangana, Rao was nursing hopes of ruling the whole nation. In a similar vein, senior Congress leader V Hanumanthrao said that no party can form the government without his party. "Talks of a third front are attempts at making a fool of everybody. No government will be formed without the Congress party," he said. Five of the seven phases of the general elections have concluded in the country. The remaining two phases are scheduled to be held on May 12 and May 19. 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.) TV actor Karan Oberoi has been sent to 14-days judicial custody by an Andheri Court in connection with an alleged rape case against him. Oberoi was arrested on May 6. An FIR was registered at Oshiwara Police Station in Mumbai under sections 376 (rape) and 384 (extortion) of the Indian Penal Code against Oberoi. According to the police, the actor allegedly raped the woman on the pretext of marrying her. "Oberoi not only raped the woman and filmed the act but also demanded money from the victim threatening to release the video if she did not pay up," they said quoting the FIR. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) With opposition parties initiating moves to discuss the possibility of forming a coalition government at the Centre, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday recalled the formation of the United Front government in 1996 and said it had "destabilised" the country. "We have to be cautious of the 'Mahamilavati Mahagathbandhan' (adulterated alliance). These people have done nothing but destabilised the Indian polity. 20 years ago, there was a United Front government at the centre which destabilised India in an unprecedented way. "Then India saw an inefficient and corrupt government between 2004 and 2014 of the UPA which ran scams cutting across categories," he said at an election meeting in this constituency in which SP chief Akhilesh Yadav is the candidate of the SP-BSP alliance. After the completion of the fourth phase of polling, opposition leaders including TRS chief and Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao and TDP chief and his Andhra pradesh counterpart N Chandrababu Naidu have been meeting non-BJP leaders to discuss post-poll possibilities in case BJP fails to get a majority. Rao met Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan in Thiruvananthapuram on Tuesday while Naidu met Congress President Rahul Gandhi in Delhi on Wednesday. Modi said when there is a corrupt government in place, it would not be able to fight or face the challenges before it. "The people who have indulged in vote-bank and casteist had put India under duress. These people had given an opportunity to Pakistan to get away with a lot of misdeeds with regards to our country. After 2014, the terrorist attacks stopped and how were the terrorists limited to some parts of Jammu and Kashmir," Modi in a veiled attack on SP and BSP. He said Indian forces entered the territories of Pakistan and struck at the roots of terror. "This is a new India, we believe in going behind enemy lines to strike at terror. At one point, the world used to be reluctant to stand with us; today the whole world is standing with us against terrorists like Masood Azhar," he asserted. Talking about the development work done by the BJP government vis-a-vis earlier governments, PM Modi said, when corrupt and casteist governments were there, then their thinking was very limited. "You have experienced a lot of problems when earlier in UP, every facility from electricity to gas connections were awarded based on caste formulations. Under the umbrella of 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikaas' thought, people have got facilities without any discrimination. We disbursed gas cylinders to 7 crore people under Ujjwala yojana. Under PMAY, around 1.5 crore people have got homes. We assure our population that by 2022, we would cover all poor families under the PMAY." "The SP-BSP regimes never cared about people's health. Whereas, under Ayushman Bharat Yojana, we have ensured free treatment for everyone upto Rs 5 Lakh. Just like that, to address farmers' problems we have planned to directly transfer benefits to farmers under PM Kisan Yojana," he said. The Prime Minister expressed confidence in the people of Azamgarh to come out and vote in huge numbers to form a BJP-led government at the centre. Five phases of elections are now over in Uttar Pradesh with two phases remaining on May 12 and 19. The counting of votes will be done on May 23. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Supreme Court on Thursday withdrew the special facilities given to the promoters of beleaguered Unitech Limited -- Sanjay Chandra and Ajay Chandra, who are currently lodged in Tihar jail for not handing over the possession of flats to buyers despite money being paid to the company. A division bench of Justices D Y Chandrachud and Hemant Gupta, while posting the matter for hearing to July 5, directed the jail authorities to treat the accused Chandra brothers as ordinary prisoners. As per the jail manual and rules, they were provided room cooler and other facilities. The bench passed the order after the court-appointed forensic auditors submitted that the Unitech group and its officials were not furnishing any digital records to them for ascertaining how much of homebuyers' money was diverted to other subsidiary companies. In the last hearing on February 15, the court had pulled up Unitech for not providing data to the forensic auditors examining alleged financial irregularities. However, the court had allowed Unitech to sell the 24-acre land parcel in Hyderabad for Rs 24 crore and also released Rs 40 crore for the completion of pending projects. On January 19, the apex court had directed a forensic audit of Unitech and its subsidiary companies to probe alleged financial irregularities and diversion of home-buyers' funds by its promoters and directors. Unitech Group is involved in the construction of 74 housing projects for which around 17,000 home buyers have made investments. Due to the financial crisis, the Group has not been able to complete the projects, leaving buyers in the lurch.Its managing director Sanjay Chandra and his brother Ajay Chandra have been in jail since April last year after being arrested by Delhi Police for not handing over possession of flats to buyers despite money being paid to the company. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) United States Special Representative for North Korea Stephen Biegun arrived in Seoul on Wednesday to hold talks with his South Korean counterpart Lee Do-hoon. The talks are expected to focus on Pyongyang's recent firing of short-range projectiles and possible food aid to North Korea, reported Yonhap.Biegun arrived at Gimpo International Airport at around 6:40 p.m. (local time), accompanied by National Security Council official Allison Hooker and Alex Wong, deputy assistant secretary of state for North Korea. During his four-day visit to the country, Biegun will also attend a session of the joint "working group" established to coordinate policy on Pyongyang. Food aid to North Korea is expected to be a key topic in the said meeting. According to a recent report by the United Nations, more than ten million North Koreans are suffering "severe food shortages" due to series of weather disasters, compounded by international sanctions on the country, particularly by the US.On May 4, North Korea reportedly fired multiple short-range "projectiles" off its east coast, amid stalled denuclearisation talks between Washington and Pyongyang following the abrupt fallout of the Hanoi summit in February. Do-hoon and Beigun last week held telephonic a telephonic conversation, where they discussed their assessment of the situation on the peninsula since Hanoi summit. Ties between the US and North Korea have hit a roadblock over the ease of sanctions, where Pyongyang sought relief as a recognition of the steps taken towards denuclearisation. Washington has, until now, reinforced that relief in sanctions would only be given after Pyongyang carries out "complete and verifiable" denuclearisation. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A top US military official, during a congressional hearing here on Wednesday (local time) suggested that the United States should not withdraw their troops from Afghanistan until insurgency is uprooted from the country. "I think we will need to maintain a counterterrorism presence as long as an insurgency continues in Afghanistan," Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Joseph Dunford said, according to TOLOnews. This comes as Washington is currently in talks with the Taliban to bring about peace in Afghanistan, which has seen strife since the last 18 years. The US has been holding talks with Taliban from past 9 months in regard with withdrawing US troops from the region. The US Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation Zalmay Khalilzad sat down with representatives from Taliban in Doha this past week in a bid to bring peace to the country. A final deal on the issue, however, has not been reached between the two sides. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The United States would not intervene in Seoul's move to provide food aid to North Korea, the White House said on Wednesday, despite the recent firing of projectiles by Pyongyang last week. Speaking to reporters in Washington, White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders cleared that the primary focus of US shall remain on North Korea's denuclearisation. "Our position in regards to North Korea is going to continue to be the maximum pressure campaign. Our focus is on the denuclearisation," Yonhap quoted Sanders as saying. She was referring to the US-led sanctions aimed at dismantling the North's nuclear weapons programme. "If South Korea moves forward on that front, we're not going to intervene." However, the statement was made before the firing of fresh projectiles by North Korea earlier today. Sanders further said that US President Donald Trump expressed support for South Korea's possible humanitarian assistance to the North during a phone call with President Moon Jae-in on Tuesday. According to a recent report by the United Nations, more than 10 million North Koreans are suffering "severe food shortages" due to a series of weather disasters, compounded by international sanctions on the country, particularly by the US. The sanctions have been imposed in a bid to get the reclusive state to denuclearise. The US, especially, has been steadfast on its stance of granting sanctions relief only after Pyongyang has completely denuclearised. Meanwhile, US Special Representative for North Korea, Stephen Biegun, held talks with his South Korean counterpart Lee Do-hoon earlier today, where the two discussed ways to resume talks between Washington and Pyongyang. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Lecce to hold Sabir festival 16-19/5 Events on migration, 'democracy needs openness to others' (ANSAmed) - LECCE, MAY 9 - 'Sabir', a word that was created from contact between different linguistic communities, is now synonymous with bringing people together. From May 16 to May 19, Lecce will be hosting the Sabir cultural festival. With a focus on Europe and the role it has in the Mediterranean basin, this edition will bring to the stage - in Baroque squares and famous halls of Salentino stone - the thousand faces of the sea: culture, economy, and politics for three high-intensity days. Migration and rights, information and borders, reception models and travel notes, to reiterate that democracy cannot exist without openness towards others through a series of six lessons as well as meetings, concerts and films. International speakers will include the Algerian Tahar Lamri, a writer and journalist, as well as Taqadum Al-Khatib from the Egyptian Human Rights Forum and Wadih Al Asmar, president of the Euromed Rights Network. There will also be civil society representatives such as Oliviero Forti, head of migration policies for the Italian branch opf Caritas, Antonio Russo, Franco Una, and Marco Trulli from the ARCI national office, and trade unionists such as CGIL secretary Maurizio Landini, Susanna Camusso, head of CGIL's international policies, and Tunisia's UGTT chief Noureddine Taboubi. Figures in the art and cultural sphere will be meeting in different locations to speak about the history and identity of the Mediterranean. Theater, literature, and music are the cardinal points of this edition of the festival, which comes after Lampedusa, Pozzallo, Siracusa, and Palermo. The Symphonic Orchestra of Salento under the direction of Eliseo Castignano will open the festival on May 16 and pay homage to composer Nino Rota on the 40th anniversary of his death. The following day at 10 PM - in a square that stands as a symbol to Lecce Baroque and where pop concerts have been banned for over 10 years - there will be a concert by Apres la Classe, a Salentine band mixing reggae, rock, and world music. For more information there will be a stand at: ex convitto Teatini, Via Vittorio Emanuele II 25, Lecce. (ANSAmed). Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu will embark on an official four-day visit to Vietnam from May 9, External Affairs Ministry said on Wednesday. During his visit, Naidu will hold meetings with Vice-President of Vietnam Dang Thi Ngoc Thinh, Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc and Chairperson of National Assembly of Vietnam Nguyen Thi Kim Ngan, the MEA said in an official statement. He will deliver the keynote address at the 16th United Nations Day of Vesak Celebration at Tam Chuc Pagoda in Vietnam's Ha Nam Province. Naidu will also meet the Indian community and Vietnamese beneficiaries of the Jaipur Foot Artificial Limb Fitment Camp organised in Vietnam under the 'India for Humanity' initiative launched to commemorate the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. India-Vietnam relations have been built on a firm foundation of close cultural, historical and civilisational links and are marked by mutual trust and understanding as well as strong cooperation in regional and international fora, the statement said. The relationship between the two countries was elevated to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 2016 visit to Vietnam. Naidu's visit follows a series of high-level exchanges last year including the visits of Prime Minister (January 2018) and President (March 2018) of Vietnam to India. These exchanges have resulted in robust cooperation in several areas, have expanded defence and security ties, forged new economic and commercial linkages and deepened people-to-people engagement. The two sides share a common desire to promote peace, security and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A woman was detained for allegedly attempting to throw her footwear at Congress leader and Punjab minister Navjot Singh Sidhu during a public meeting here. In a short video of the incident, the woman is seen telling police personnel that she threw the slipper because "Sidhu spoke against Modi". Navjot Singh Sidhu has been very critical of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and has often slammed him publicly referring to him as "chowkidar chor hai", following the example of party president Rahul Gandhi. Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday tendered an unconditional apology to the Supreme Court for wrongly attributing his "chowkidar chor hai" remark to the apex court and sought closure of the contempt proceedings against him. In April, a shoe was hurled at BJP's spokesperson GVL Narasimha Rao while he was addressing a media briefing. He, however, had a narrow escape as the shoe did not hit him. At the time of the incident, the BJP spokesperson was talking about fielding Sadhvi Pragya from Bhopal constituency and was criticising Congress for allegedly defaming Hindus. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Android mobile Operating System (OS) is now running on 2.5 billion devices globally, up from 2 billion, Google announced two years ago. Stephanie Cuthbertson, Android's Senior Director made the announcement at the I/O conference. This milestone for the company comes about ten years after the first release of Android. "However, keep in mind that the numbers are based on Google Play Store statistics and it doesn't take into account non-Google Play Store devices such as China's Android devices without Google Play Services enabled. "So in reality, a lot more mobile devices are running Android right now," GSMArena reported late on Wednesday. The announcement was made during the launch of Android Q beta 3 OS, which is now available for 21 devices. Android is the most popular mobile OS, though over the course of the last few years, Google has also invested in KaiOS. --IANS ksc/bc (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Amanda Knox has announced that she will return to Italy in June for the first time since being convicted and jailed, but then ultimately acquitted in 2015, of killing her British roommate in the hilltop town of Perugia. Knox, a 31-year-old US citizen, will be attending a conference in Modena from June 13-15 on miscarriage of justice cases and "trial by media". The event is being organized by the Italy Innocence Project and the Camera Penale di Modena, an association of lawyers, CNN reported. In 2007, Knox was arrested alongside her then-boyfriend, Raffaele Sollecito, after the murder of her 21-year-old housemate Kercher. Kercher's body was found in the apartment she shared with Knox in Perugia and her throat had been slashed. Knox spent four years in prison for the murder before eventually having her conviction overturned by Italy's Supreme Court in 2015. She has not set foot on Italian soil since. "The Italy Innocence Project didn't yet exist when I was wrongly convicted in Perugia. I'm honoured to accept their invitation to speak to the Italian people at this historic event and return to Italy for the first time," Knox wrote on Twitter. Guido Sola, one of the festival's organizers, told CNN: "Amanda Knox is the icon of trials that the media carry out before the trial in court is conducted." "Amanda has been definitively acquitted in court, but in the popular imagination she is still guilty, because she has been the victim of a barbaric media trial." Knox, who after her acquittal returned to her native Seattle and embarked on a career as a writer and commentator, shot to global attention during a tortuous, seven-year judicial process in various courts in Italy. She complained of unfair treatment from the media and from Italian prosecutors, one of whom once referred to her as "a she-devil focused on sex, drugs and alcohol" who "lived life on the edge". In January, Europe's top human rights court ordered Italy to pay 18,400 euros (16,000 pounds) to Knox after ruling that she was denied adequate legal representation. Knox accused the Italian police of slapping her around the head, threatening her verbally and not giving her access to a lawyer or professional interpreter. Knox and her then boyfriend, Raffaele Sollecito, were convicted, then acquitted, then reconvicted in 2014, then finally acquitted by Italy's highest court of the sexual assault and murder of Kercher. The only person to have been convicted for the murder is Rudy Guede, a petty criminal and drug dealer born in the Ivory Coast who had been adopted by an Italian family in Perugia. He is serving a 16-year sentence. --IANS soni/ (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) As the US edges to a constitutional crisis with the Democratic-controlled House of Representatives unleashing a multi-pronged attack on President Donald Trump and his officials and him launching a counter offensive, both sides are working on the political calculus of impeachment. "We are now in a constitutional crisis", the chair of the House Judiciary Committee, Jerry Nadler, declared on Wednesday as the standoff with Trump intensified. If a full-blown constitutional crisis develops, the Democrats may impeach Trump - a move that a large section of the party base demands but the leadership is cautious about. However, Trump himself may be trying to precipitate an impeachment if he sees electoral gains. He told a rally of his supporters in Florida on Wednesday night: "They want to do investigations instead of investments. I think it drives us right on to victory in 2020." He may think that an impeachment - or continuing investigations - that could drag on while the election campaigns get underway would rally his base and help him play the martyr while Democrats are mired in an electoral debate over him at the expense of policies. Speaker Nancy Pelosi, who has said she is against impeachment, saw through this ploy. She said on Tuesday that because Trump want to "solidify his base" regardless of the cost to the nation, he "is goading us to impeach him, that's what he's doing every single day. He's just taunting, taunting, taunting because he knows it would be divisive". Pelosi may want her party to avoid the trap, but by Wednesday she was exasperated. "He's becoming self-impeachable" and making a case for it everyday, she said at a Washington Post event. Setting the stage for a constitutional crisis, House Judiciary Chairman Jerry Nadler's committee voted to hold Attorney General William Barr in contempt for refusing to give it the full report of the inquiry into the Russian interference in 2016 elections. Trump retaliated by exercising his executive privilege to withhold it from the panel. The full House is expected next week to follow-up the committee vote to hold him in contempt. Theoretically, the House may have the power to arrest Barr if it votes to declare him in contempt, although it is unlikely to go that far. The House under Republican control in 2012 held former President Barack Obama's Attorney General Eric Holder in contempt for refusing to hand over information about a sting operation against the illicit gun trade that went awry. But it amounted to just a slap on the wrist. Trump's exercise of his executive power against the release of the full inquiry report could precipitate a constitutional crisis because the House -- should it vote so -- would be holding Barr in contempt for complying with a presidential order. On the other hand, the concept of executive privilege is itself controversial and Democrats, who are already questioning it, could ultimately take the matter to courts. It is not explicitly mentioned in the Constitution but has been exercised in the past as an extension of the powers of the president and the separation of the executive and legislative branches of government. The inquiry into Russian meddling conducted by Special Counsel Robert Mueller found that neither Trump nor his campaign had colluded with Russians during the 2016 election, disappointing many Democrats who had expected the probe to confirm their claims and help unseat the President. The version of the report that was released by Barr had portions blacked out as they related to testimony that is legally secret, ongoing investigations or innocent third parties. But the Democrats clamour for it in entirety hoping to find leads for further investigations or to enable them to take up the charge of obstruction of justice against Trump -- an impeachable offence -- on which Mueller refused to neither clear Trump nor charge him with it. Opening another front, House Intelligence Committee Chairman Adam Schiff issued a subpoena to the Justice Department demanding the unredacted version of the report. Yet another House panel, the Way and Means Committee that deals with tax matters, is embroiled in a standoff after requesting the Treasury Department for Trump's recent tax records. Treasury Secretary Steven Muchin has refused to comply and the Committee chair Richard Neal has said he will decide on Thursday whether to go to court to compel him. Unlike all recent presidents Trump has refused to publish his tax returns saying they were under audit. Democrats want to examine the tax records to see if there are any irregularities they can pursue. The House Intelligence and Financial Services Committees have demanded Trump's tax records from two banks, but Trump has gone to court to try to block them from complying. The New York Times has published information from his tax returns for the decade 1984 to 1995 that show he had run up losses totaling $1.17 billion and did not pay taxes for eight years. Puncturing his image of being the master of the art of the deal, the Times said that "in multiple years, he appears to have lost more money than nearly any other individual taxpayer". Trump, however, defended his record in tweets claiming it was "a sport" by real estate developers to show losses for taxes purposes by using tax shelters. The Democratic Party-controlled New York state Senate voted on a work around on Wednesday to make state tax returns that contain information in the federal tax forms available to some Congressional committees. The House Judiciary Committee has also demanded documents from former Trump White House lawyer Don McGahn and asked him to testify before it. He has refused to give them the papers, paving the way for another confrontation. Meanwhile, the Intelligence Committee of the Senate controlled by his own party has ordered Trump's son, Donald Jr., to appear before it. It is likely seeking information about his talks with Russians that is mentioned in the Mueller report. (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.) Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu will meet his West Bengal counterpart Mamata Banerjee on Thursday as part of his efforts for closer coordination between the opposition parties after the Lok Sabha results will be declared on May 23. He is likely to have a meeting with Banerjee at Kharagpur in West Bengal and will join her at a joint rally at Talbagicha High School ground. Naidu, who was here to attend the Supreme Court hearing on a review petition seeking 50 per cent random physical verification of EVMs using VVPATs, had met Congress President Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday. The opposition parties are keen to have a closer consultations so that they do not lose time in forming an alternative if the results on May 23 present such an opportunity. Naidu, along with NCP supremo Sharad Pawar, has engaged in parleys with various opposition parties for closer coordination to oust the Modi government. The opposition parties are also planning to hold a meeting on May 21 after the exit polls to discuss various possibilities about the election results. Naidu has indicated that the Congress and Banerjee will have a role to play in formation of an alternative government. He was in West Bengal on Wednesday, addressed rallies in support of Trinamool Congress in Jhargram and Tamluk. --IANS ps/pg (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Film: "Chhota Bheem Kung Fu Dhamaka"; Directors: Rajiv Chilaka, Binayak Das; Voice Cast: Sonal Kaushal, Rupa Bhimani, Jigna Bharadhwaj, Sabina Malik, Aditya Raj Sharma, Pawan Shuklaa, Nishka Raheja; Rating: **1/2 There is an infectious appeal to Chhota Bheem and his numerous adventures. While the Chhota Bheem franchise, with its numerous editions have acquired iconic stature among the young Indian audience, this is the fourth film after 'The Throne of Bali", "The Curse of Damyaan" and "Himalayan Adventure" to get a theatrical release. For those uninitiated into the series, Chhota Bheem and his friends Chutki, Raju, Kalia along with Dholu, Bholu and Jaggu the monkey are constant figures who accompany our saucer-eyed hero on his various expeditions. This time, they are in China. Chhota Bheem and his friends are participating in the annual festivities in the court of Emperor Jiang. The last day of the festivities also coincides with Princess Kia's birthday and coronation. We are told that Princess Kia is a blessed child who has the patronage of a mystical dragon, who has the powers to rule the Universe. Witnessing the festivities which include a Kung Fu Competition, are Princess Kia, her friend Ming and all the other courtiers. The Emperor's nephew Zuhu, as an act of revenge for being banished from the kingdom and a part for his nefarious plans, mars the festivities by kidnapping Princess Kia. The desperate Emperor promises huge rewards to anyone who would liberate his daughter from the clutches of his wicked nephew. All the participants of the Kung Fu competition along with a courtier and his sons set out to rescue Princess Kia. How they fare in their endeavour, forms the crux of the tale. What follows is predictable. Chhota Bheem, under the tutelage of a Kung Fu Master, learns new Kung Fu tricks along with a few life lessons. The story is simple and meanders aimlessly through a standard formulaic treatment, making the viewing, a not so exciting fare. The plot and the screenplay, though laced with verbose exposition, is uncomplicated, smooth and direct with not much emphasis given to the finer nuances of Kung Fu. Nevertheless, the well-designed action sequences are crisp, relevant and lack the fun element that was noticed in the previous Chhota Bheem editions. The dialogues too sound bland and unimpressive. Visually, the film is brilliantly mounted. Each frame is colourful and appealing and the voices of the ace cast are matched perfectly. The animation, along with the 3D effects, are spectacular with all characters faithfully created, appealing to look at and truly vivacious except for the wispy pink dragon which seems more out of place in this cinematic universe. Overall, for a theatre released film, fatigue seems to be setting into this series. --IANS troy/rb/bg (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) UNHCR urges migrant evacuation from Tripoli center After airstrike hit Tajoura center (ANSAmed) - ROME, MAY 9 - UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, is calling for refugees and migrants in detention centres in conflict areas in Tripoli to be immediately evacuated to safety, after an airstrike hit a target less than 100 metres away from the Tajoura detention centre. There are over 500 refuges and migrants detained in Tajoura, two of whom were injured and need medical assistance, UNHCR said. When the hostilities intensified on Tuesday night, refugees and migrants were trapped inside and unable to flee to safety, it noted. "The risks are simply unacceptable at this point," said Vincent Cochetel, UNHCR Special Envoy for the Central Mediterranean. "People inside detention centres in Tripoli are facing ever-increasing dangers, making it vital that we immediately move them out of harm's way." Since the onset of the conflict in Tripoli last 4 April, UNHCR has relocated over 1,200 persons from high-risk locations to safer areas. However, some 3,460 refugees and migrants remain in detention centres near to conflict-affected areas. ''No evacuations have taken place out of Libya since 146 people were relocated to Italy on 29 April. UNHCR urges the international community to come forward with further offers of humanitarian corridors and relocation,'' a statement noted. UNHCR is also concerned, it said, at the use of detention centres for storing weapons and military equipment. Utilising civilian infrastructure in this manner constitutes a violation of international humanitarian law and must be avoided at all costs. (ANSAmed). Web series: "City Of Dreams" on Hotstar; Director: Nagesh Kukunoor; Cast: Priya Bapat, Sidharth Chandekar, Eijaz Khan and Vishwas Kini; Rating: ***1/2 What starts off seeming to be a take-off on Mani Ratnam's most recent political drama "Chekka Chivantha Vaanam" turns into an engrossing crackling cat-and-mouse drama about a political empire in Maharashtra where siblings squabble for power after the patriarch (Atul Kulkarni) is gunned down. Straightaway, "City Of Dreams" encircles a cluster of power-hungry characters whose motives are never cogent, let alone comprehensible. There is always a sense of more going on here than meets the eye. Writers-directors Nagesh Kukunoor, Rohit C. Banawlikar peel off layers after layers of subterfuge to reveal a system of governance that thrives on corruption and deception. Deftly inter-woven, the plot moves in mysterious ways embracing characters who are at once cunning and naive. The aforementioned wounded politician's daughter Poornima (a very lovely and emotionally empowered Priya Bapat) fights it out with her out-of-control debauched brother Ashish (Siddharth Chandekar). The two actors play off against one another with controlled acerbity, bringing out Shakespearean levels of power-greed as the plot unfolds in a gripping game of one-upmanship. Priya Bapat is specially effective, negotiating the power spaces that her father has vacated with guarded velocity. In one sequence, Poornima Gaekwad accompanied by the family advisor (Jiten Pandya) meets a business benefactor friend of her father who informs her in very crude words, that he is ready to be ravaged in the missionary position but won't be sodomized. The characters shock themselves with their sudden swerve into sleaze, none more than Sandeep Kulkarni playing the political family's money launderer. Playing a placid family man with crippling financial liabilities (money launderer with no money: get the irony), he cultivates a secret life where he watches 'Sunny' (as in Leone) in "Badan Part 4" and befriends a mysterious seductress. Kulkarni brings out the frightening stillness that defines his character's existence. Not one to go down without a fight is Ajaz Khan's burnt-out encounter cop act. He is a once powerful man now forced to look at his pathetic personal and professional life straight in the eye. The part is memorably written. And Ajaz Khan makes the best of it though he could have mumbled his lines more coherently. The problem with being Marlon Brando is we don't know what he is saying. The series has some striking threads of plotting, fluttering across the episodes with inviting assuredness. My favourite is the loan agent Gautam (wonderfully played by Vishwas Kini) and his unlikely telephonic friendship with the brutalized sex worker who calls herself Katrina (Amrita Bagchi). There is potential in this friendship for a full-fledged feature film. "City Of Dreams" focuses not so much on the city of Mumbai as its ambitious power-hungry characters whose yearnings spill into a bloodbath. This is a well written finely performed web series with significant recall value. The writing is bold and effective never afraid to call out its character's flaws, no matter how embarrassing. At one point when the two siblings squabble over their father's political throne, the brother tells his sister, "I am not willing to be Manmohan Singh to your Sonia Gandhi." Politics never seemed more interesting. And farcical. --IANS skj/rb/bg (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A Delhi court on Thursday granted bail to Congress leader Jairam Ramesh in connection with a defamation case filed by National Security Advisor Ajit Doval's son Vivek Doval. Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate Samar Vishal asked him to furnish a personal bond and surety of Rs 20,000 each in pursuance of summons issued against him. Meanwhile, the court also framed defamation charges against him and other two accused -- The Caravan magazine Editor-in-Chief Paresh Nath and reporter Kaushal Shroff. After they pleaded not guilty and claimed trial, the court listed May 27 for recording of evidence. In March, the court had summoned Ramesh and the other accused in connection with a defamatory article titled "The D-Companies", published in the magazine on January 16. Observing that allegations made against Vivek Doval were "prima facie defamatory", the court had said there exists sufficient ground to proceed against the accused. --IANS ak/mag/mr (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) David Beckham has been given a six-month driving ban for using his mobile phone while behind the wheel. The former England captain previously pleaded guilty to using the device while driving his Bentley in central London on 21 November last year, the BBC reported. A court heard he was photographed by a member of the public holding a phone as he drove in "slowly moving" traffic. Beckham, 44, received six points on his licence to add to the six he already had for previous speeding matters. He was also fined 750, ordered to pay 100 in prosecution costs and a 75 surcharge fee within seven days. District Judge Catherine Moore said she acknowledged the slow pace of the traffic but told him there was "no excuse" under the law. Bromley Magistrates' Court heard Beckham was seen "operating a handheld device at knee level" while driving along Great Portland Street in the West End. Prosecutor Matthew Spratt said: "Instead of looking straight forward, paying attention to the road he appeared to be looking at his lap." Beckham's barrister Gerrard Tyrrell said the former Manchester United midfielder had "no recollection of the day in question or this particular incident". He added: "There is no excuse for what took place but his view is that he cannot remember." Tyrrell told the court that Beckham found driving a relaxing pastime. "He takes his children to school each day when he can and he picks them up when he can, and actually to deprive them of that is something that he will acknowledge," he said. --IANS rs (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Amid a high voltage debate over statistical data, eminent economists in Mumbai on Thursday suggested that the Finance Commission "prioritize" the development of a robust statistical system. Finance Commission members are on a two-day visit to Mumbai to meet officials of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), banks, financial institutions and economists to discuss several key issues. "A suggestion was raised for Finance Commission to consider giving priority to the development of a very robust statistical system in the country in its recommendations," an official statement said on Thursday. Several economists in a statement released earlier questioned the government's intent behind the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) methodology revision, and called for the restoration of the independence of statistical bodies in light of the allegations that the government was suppressing uncomfortable data. Besides, other issues like the need to adopt an overall view on the borrowing requirements of the consolidated public sector were raised. "It should be carefully examined whether the increased tax devolution by the 14th Finance Commission has led to improvements in the social spending of state governments," the statement said. "There is possibly a mismatch between the demand and supply of state development loans, which can affect the cost of borrowings of state governments in the next five years," it added. The economists noted that there are indications that suggest that the fiscal deficit to Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) ratio of the states taken as a whole is gradually declining, after the spike seen in 2015-16 and 2016-17. Another point of concern raised was the quality of budgeting. "The quality of budgeting needs to improve. Governments should not budget for a low fiscal deficit, knowing fully well that it cannot be achieved. Projections of revenues from GST is tricky, but not impossible if one can work with the available data," the statement said. Given the shift from the use of the 1971 population to the 2001 population, some economists pointed towards the need for instituting an incentive structure in devolution. The composition of population in terms of the proportion of the elderly in the population is becoming significantly different across states, the statement said. Some economists also urged the commission to consider reinstating the system of specific-purpose grants to ensure development of social sectors and other sectors that require hand holding. --IANS ravi/sn/pgh/bg (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) "Chasing Happiness", a documentary about the newly reunited Jonas Brothers, will premiere on June 4. It will be available on Amazon Prime Video worldwide. The film promises never-before-seen footage of Nick, Joe, and Kevin Jonas, starting with their early days of growing up in New Jersey in a family struggling to make ends meet, reports variety.com. It follows them to their heights of stardom -- and the events surrounding their 2013 break-up. The Jonas Brothers broke up their band after cancelling their tour due to a "deep, creative rift" among the members. "Chasing Happiness" also shows the brothers rebuilding their relationships as siblings and band mates, leading to their first new album since 2009. In their heyday, the Jonas Brothers earned two No. 1 albums and sold out shows across three continents, selling over 17 million-plus albums with over 1 billion streams worldwide. The trio announced their reunion earlier this year with their hit single "Sucker", which has topped 445 million global streams to date. Last month, the group announced their first album since 2009, "Happiness Begins" -- which will release on June 7. They have also announced details for their 40-city Happiness Begins Tour. Amazon Studios head Jennifer Salke credited Nick's wife and actress Priyanka Chopra behind the idea of making the documentary. "I love Priyanka and she introduced me to Nick Jonas. They sent me a video and we bought it right away and that's how we came about it," Salke told IANS when the project was announced. Opening up about the idea behind the project, Salke said: "It is really about our instincts, 'oh my God, our customer are going to love this' and we sort of lean in and figure out the best strategy." --IANS sug/pgh/ (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) In a major embarrassment to the government, retired Admiral L. Ramdas on Thursday refuted Prime Minister Narendra Modi's claim that the late Rajiv Gandhi and his family had enjoyed a family cruise on the INS Viraat. In a detailed statement, Admiral Ramdas, who was Chief of Naval Staff then, said the then Prime Minister had gone on an official trip to the Lakshadweep Islands to chair a meeting of the Islands Development Authority (IDA) held alternatively between Andaman and Lakshadweep Islands. There were no parties held on INS Viraat or any of the other four warships accompanying the erstwhile aircraft carrier of the Indian Navy and no foreigners accompanied Rajiv Gandhi nor did current Congress President Rahul Gandhi accompany them then, said Admiral Ramdas, who is now settled in Raigad, adjoining Mumbai. He said that the statement was issued after collating responses from his former senior naval colleagues - Admiral Arun Prakash, Vice Admiral Vinod Pasricha and Vice Admiral Madanjit Singh - all of whom were serving in the Western Fleet during the events referred to (by Modi) nearly 32 years ago. At an election rally in Delhi on Wednesday, Modi referred to Rajiv Gandhi and charged him with using INS Viraat for a personal cruise lasting 10 days to the Lakshadweep Islands, with his family and his in-laws (Sonia Gandhi's family). Presumably, Modi's comments were based on a report in India Today magazine, he said, adding: "I would like to state unequivocally that this was not the case." He recounted the sequence of events of that period based on the replies by the retired naval top brass besides a naval officer who was then in-charge of the Lakshadweep Islands. In December 1987, Rajiv Gandhi boarded INS Viraat off Thiruvananthapuram en route to Lakshadweep Islands, after attending an event as the chief guest at the National Games Prize distribution in the Kerala capital, and was proceeding to the Lakshdweep Islands for the IDA meet. One of the officers stated that there were four other naval ships accompanying the INS Viraat for the Fleet Exercises and as the Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief based in Kochi he had boarded the aircraft carrier. "As the FoC-C, I hosted a dinner for them (Rajiv and his wife) on board INS Viraat. There were no other parties held on board INS Viraat, or for that matter, on any other ship in our fleet during that time," the officer said. However, the late Prime Minister and his wife visited some of the islands on short trips by helicopter to meet local officials and the local people. "The PM is authorized to travel along with his spouse by service aircraft on official duties " Admiral Ramdas said, adding that Rahul Gandhi, (who would have been barely 17 then), never accompanied them. During Rajiv Gandhi's visit to Bangaram, on the last day, a few naval divers had been sent ashore for the Prime Minister's safety. No other ships had been diverted for the personal use of Gandhi family and only a small helicopter was stationed at Kavratti for medical emergency, said the statement. Another officer said the meetings and functions (above) were held in December 1987 and the Western Fleet had planned its naval exercises with the (INS Viraat) much in advance in the annual exercise programme to be conducted in that region in the Arabian Sea. "This was an opportunity for the officers and men to interact with their Prime Minister. He addressed the men, had 'Bada Khana' as per naval traditions," said an officer who later hosted a dinner for Rajiv Gandhi and produced a photograph to confirm it. --IANS qn/mr (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) In a major embarrassment to the government, retired Admiral L. Ramdas on Thursday refuted Prime Minister Narendra Modis claim that the late Rajiv Gandhi and his family had enjoyed a family cruise on the INS Viraat. In a statement, Admiral Ramdas, who was Chief of Naval Staff then, said the late Prime Minister had gone on an official trip to the Lakshadweep Islands to chair a meeting of the Islands Development Authority (IDA) which is held alternatively between Andaman and Lakshadweep Islands. There were no parties held on INS Viraat or any of the other four warships accompanying the erstwhile aircraft carrier of the Indian Navy and no foreigners accompanied Rajiv Gandhi nor was current Congress President Rahul Gandhi present then, Admiral Ramdas said. --IANS qn/mr (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) After directions from a court, police in Jammu and Kashmir's Leh district have filed an FIR against Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders in a case of bribery allegation levelled by local journalists. Chief Judicial Magistrate in Leh Tsewang Phuntsog, while disposing off an application filed by the police, said: "Perusal and consideration of the material on record reveals prima facie commission of non-cognizable offences punishable under Section 171E and 171F of the Indian Penal Code, warranting investigation. "Accordingly, the instant application is allowed and SHO Police Station Leh is permitted to investigate into the matter under law," he added. Leh Press Club journalists had approached the district election officer with a compliant that BJP leader Vikram Randhawa had given them envelopes containing cash on May 2 in the presence of state BJP President Ravinder Raina at a hotel during a press conference. The BJP has denied the allegation. Randhawa said the party will file a defamation case against Leh journalists unless they offer a public apology. --IANS sq/mag/mr (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) At least five people were killed on Thursday in a major fire that engulfed a well-known saree shop here, police said. According to an official of Pune Police (Rural), the fire was reported at around 5 a.m. in the Rajyog Saree Centre, when the workers were asleep in a room above the shop located in the Devachi Urli area on the outskirts of the city. The blaze quickly spread from the shop to the room above and the five workers sleeping there were suffocated to death, said investigating officer S.B. Bandkar. As per preliminary information, the shop was locked from the outside, virtually trapping the victims inside. The victims were identified as Rakesh Mahiwal, Dharmaram Badiyar, Sooraj Sharma, Dheeraj Chandak and Rakesh Vehar. "We have summoned the shop owner and are investigating the matter from all angles before initiating action," Bandkar told IANS. At least five fire tenders were deployed to battle the blaze, the cause of which remains unknown. Saree stocks worth several lakhs of rupees were reduced to ashes in the fire. After a battle of nearly four hours, the blaze was finally brought under control and cooling operations are underway. Bandkar added. --IANS qn/ksk (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The ruling BJP in Goa on Thursday distanced itself from a comment by Deputy Chief Minister and Goa Forward Party chief Vijai Sardesai who had said on Tuesday that he would "weaponise" his party's youth if domicile provisions for jobs in government and government-funded autonomous bodies are diluted by the BJP-led coalition in the state. Speaking to IANS on Thursday, BJP spokesperson and Goa Panchayat Minister Mauvin Godinho said those who occupy high positions in government should refrain from making such comments and that after the Panaji bypoll on May 19, the party would take up the issue with Sardesai. "I don't agree with that statement. It must be his personal opinion. But my only comment on that is that one has to be careful of every statement one makes when one holds a very important position," Godinho said. "Once that is over, we will sit down and put our heads together and see that the best of things happen for Goa and Goans. This will automatically be a subject of discussion," he said. On Wednesday, the Congress had demanded an apology from Sardesai for his comments. Sardesai had said on Tuesday that "if our government has made a mistake then the Goa Forward Party youth, we will back them fully. We will weaponise them. I am going to say this controversially...that we will weaponise them to see that 'Goenkarponn' (Goanness) is protected." Sardesai's Goa Forward Party is an alliance partner in the BJP-led coalition government in the coastal state. --IANS maya/kr/bg (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) ANSAmed - Today's events in the Mediterranean (ANSAmed) - ROME, MAY 9 - These are the main events of interest for the Euromediterranean area, scheduled for tomorrow: VARIOUS CITIES - Europe Day to celebrate peace and unity on the continent. LESBOS - visit by the apostolic papal charities chief, Cardinal Konrad Krajewski, to show Pope Francis's solidarity with refugees in camps on the Greek island (until 10/5). TIRANA - regional summit of the presidents of Slovenia, Croatia, Macedonia, Serbia, Albania, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Montenegro, and Kosovo, with EU foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini. SIBIU (ROMANIA) - informal meeting of the heads of state or government of the EU, followed by a press conference by European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker and European Council President Donald Tusk. GENOA - Porto Antico - Start of the 9th edition of Slow Fish, an international event dedicated to the fishery world and sustainable marine ecosystems (until 12/5). VICENZA - the 11th edition of the International Security Forum starts, promoted by the 11 Settembre cultural association, which will focus on issues in the Mediterranean region over the course of 4 days, until 16/5. The first day will focus on the instability produced by migrations and their exploitation, the language used by the media, and migrants. VICENZA - Convention 'Europe-Mediterranean: Refugees, Migrants, and Security' as part of the festival 'Mare Nostrum? The Difficult Border of Europe: Challenges and Opportunities' (until 16/5). VENICE - Correr Museum - 'Sabra Beauty Everywhere', exhibition by Chiara Dynys with works created in Beirut between 2010 and 2013 (until 24/11). ROME - Spanish Literature Festival organised by the Istituto Cervantes in various locations in the city (until 13/5). (ANSAmed). India is not only a land of festivals but also of weddings. There were 21 auspicious wedding days in the Hindu calendar during first quarter of 2019, three times more than in the year-ago period, and the World Gold Council considers it a crucial factor that drove the demand for the yellow metal globally. The lure of the yellow metal is ancient, and going by demand trends it only seems to grow. Not surprisingly, many jewellers in metros reported far better footfalls on the auspicious Akshaya Tritiya festival on May 7, with some of them reporting 25 per cent jump in sales. While the investment market has evolved over the decades and dozens of new instruments of have been introduced, gold, however, perhaps remains the preferred one. "Gold has been a traditional indicator of wealth. There is a cultural aspect to this. But as regards investment instrument too, it has always given stable return," said Riaz Thingna, director, Grant Thornton Advisory. "If you compare it with other investments such as fixed deposits or debentures, not necessarily real estate and stocks, gold has been safe. That is mainly because of high internal demand." Thingna noted that, unlike investment in properties, even small amounts can be invested in gold making it a preferred choice in rural India. In its report on gold demand trends in the January-March period of 2019, the World Gold Council said that wedding purchases and lower prices lifted Indian gold jewellery demand to 125.4 tonne, or by 5 per cent, year-on-year. Given that gold is considered a part of social security, most Indians aspire to keep a certain part of their savings in gold. It is an essential part of most religious ceremonies and weddings in the family. As gifting gold is the core of marriage rituals, weddings are estimated to generate nearly 50 per cent demand for the precious metal. Many experts believe that while gold would continue to be an essential part of marriage rituals, it would fade as an investment instrument over a longer period of time. "Traditionally, gold has been a preferred investment instrument but it is changing now. On cumulative basis, investment in gold has grown significantly, but whether it has increased incrementally is a matter of debate," said Dipen Sheth, Head- Institutional Research, HDFC Securities. "Culturally, and also given the low returns in the recent past, I do not think modern Indians are investing much in gold. Things have changed over the last 15-20 years. There is statistics to support this," he said. Moreover, owing to demonetisation and better tax administration, widespread diversion of black money to gold and real estate has come down significantly. The government has emphasised inclusion of the poorest of the poor into banking system and it is set to yield positive results in years to come. Linked with banking system, even the poor are likely to keep their savings as deposits in bank accounts rather than buying gold. In the last five years, nearly 34 crore Jan Dhan bank accounts have been opened to enable direct transfer of government subsidy. However, all are not convinced that people would stop investing in gold. "In our country people have certain attachment with gold. They generally hold about 10-15 per cent investment portfolio in gold," said Surendra Mehta, National Secretary, India Bullion and Jewellers Association (IBJA). Ved Jain, former president of accounting rules maker Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) said gold is part of social security for most Indians and close to their heart culturally. "These are the reasons that India is the biggest consumer of gold," said Jain. To be continued. (Nirbhay Kumar can be contacted at nirbhay.k@ians.in) --IANS nk/sn/bc (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Canada's arrest of Meng Wanzhou last December at the behest of the US was unlawful and Washington's request for her extradition should be rejected, lawyers for the Chief Financial Officer of Chinese telecommunications giant Huawei told a Canadian judge on Wednesday. Defence attorneys called Meng's detention at Vancouver International Airport an "abuse of power" and said that at the next hearing, set for September 23, they will formally ask British Columbia Supreme Court Judge Heather Holmes to quash the case. Assuming the process moves forward after the September session, the soonest the court would hear arguments on the legality of extradition would be next January. Meng, the daughter of Huawei founder and CEO Ren Zhengfei, was taken into custody December 1 during a layover in Vancouver en route from Hong Kong to Mexico. She is on bail since then, though subject to electronic monitoring while residing in one of the two homes she and her husband own in Vancouver. Holmes acceded Wednesday to Meng's request to be allowed to relocate to her other residence in the city. In January, US federal prosecutors charged Meng with engaging in bank fraud, wire fraud and other financial misdeeds to enable Huawei to evade Washington's unilateral sanctions against Iran. The lawyers who accompanied Meng at Wednesday's hearing in Vancouver told the judge they will seek more information from prosecutors about the circumstances of the December 1 arrest. "The RCMP (Royal Canadian Mounted Police) intentionally delayed the presentation of the arrest warrant in order to carry out unlawful detention and search against Meng under the pretense of a routine border check," Huawei's Vice President of Media Affairs, Benjamin Howes, said outside the courthouse. "Her luggage was searched. Her cell phone and other electronic devices were seized at the direction of the FBI - and she was compelled to reveal her passwords," Howes said. Regarding the substance of the US charges, the Huawei spokesman said defence lawyers presented evidence showing that "business activities by Meng were conducted openly and transparently with full knowledge of banking officials." Howes also said that the US extradition request is invalid under the terms of Canadian law and bilateral accords between Washington and Ottawa, because none of the actions imputed to Meng are crimes in Canada. "The US allegations against Meng are based on violations of the US sanctions against Iran. However, Canada does not impose sanctions on financial services in relation to Iran," he said. Huawei Technologies Co. Ltd. is the world's largest maker of telecommunications and China's flagship enterprise. Beijing has reacted angrily to the US legal offensive against the company and its executives. Several Canadians have been detained in China since Meng's arrest and most of Beijing's public ire has been directed at Ottawa. In late January, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau fired his country's ambassador to China after the envoy suggested that the courts in Canada might rule against extradition. US President Donald Trump's suggestions that he could use the legal case against Huawei and Meng to pressure China on trade may be grounds for a Canadian judge to rebuff the extradition request, John McCallum said. Those comments from Trump have been cited repeatedly by Meng's attorneys and Howes referred on Wednesday to "political factors at play during the extradition process." --IANS rs (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Indian and Turkish officials met here under the institutional mechanism of Foreign Office Consultations, an official release said on Wednesday. An External Affairs Ministry release said that Turkey's Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister Sedat Onal, who is on a three-day visit to India, met Gitesh A Sarma, Secretary (West) in the Ministry, and held cordial discussions on various aspects of bilateral ties including examining opportunities for enhancing trade and investment relations. Bilateral trade at present stands at around $8.6 billion with a target of $10 billion by 2020. Other aspects such as enhanced cultural interaction, tourism, and people-to-people contacts were also discussed. The two sides reviewed current situation in their respective regions and also exchanged views on several multilateral issues. The release said that India and Turkey enjoy close, friendly and deep rooted ties dating back to several centuries and share civilizational links. Onal had earlier visited India as part of the delegation of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in May 2017. --IANS ps/vd (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Indian Embassy in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has urged Indian expats to report any delay in payment of salary by their employers, the media reported on Thursday. In a public notice on Wednesday which was shared on Twitter, it urged Indians to report to any such instance to the Embassy in Abu Dhabi or the Consulate General in Dubai, the Khaleej Times reported. Amid growing cases of duping and visa frauds, the Embassy also cautioned Indian jobseekers in the UAE not to come on visitor visas. The jobseekers must authenticate their employment offers and permits before arriving in the country, it added. The Embassy also shared videos of Indians who fell victim to fraudulent recruitment agents. According to information from the Embassy's Twitter handle, Vikram Kumar from Pali, Rajasthan, was duped by an illegal agent from Mumbai. --IANS ksk/soni/ (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) "Pappu" and "feku" are passe. The string of abuses and invective are not only pouring in on social media but have also grown vicious, especially after Prime Minister Narendra Modi set the cat among the pigeons by calling Rajiv Gandhi "Bhrashtachari No 1 (Corrupt Number 1)". Congress President Rahul Gandhi, who has faced flak for referring to the PM as "Chowkidar Chor Hai", is no stranger to insults as BJP leader Subramanian Swamy often refers to him as "Buddhu" in his tweets. But as the grand old party took offence at Modi's jibe targeting Rajiv Gandhi, the BJP supporters started insulting the Congress and its President under hashtags like #RajivGandhiChorHai, #CorruptionKingRajiv, and #RahulKaBaapChorHain. "Hello RAGA ur father was not only a chor but also a traitor who let Anderson to go back to USA and denied thousands of family, JUSTICE. But don't u worry KARMA is a very big thing and one day it will hit you and your family very hard," wrote one Twitter user. The Congress on Tuesday even moved the Supreme Court against Modi citing the "Bhrashtachari No 1" comment at a poll rally in Uttar Pradesh last week. Responding to Congress's charge of degrading the political discourse by spewing venom on its leaders, the Bhartiya Janata Party alleged that the Congress Party made its half-century in abusing PM Modi. If one Congress leader called the Prime Minister "Namard" (impotent), others even called him "terrorist" ir referred to him as "Muhammad bin Tughluq", the BJP alleged. Responding to Congress leader Ahmed Patel's tweet that abusing a martyred Prime Minster is the sign of ultimate cowardice, one Twitter user wrote: "Mulle...you all piddis can call the sitting PM " neech, ganja fukne wala, tugluq, aurangzeb, nali ka keera and d list goes on..but the PM cant say the truth about the former PM...#RahulKaBaapChorHain..BTW martyr is one who was killed in action not inaction..." "Social media discourse has been sub-par for years, and really deteriorated ahead of the current election," leading tech policy and media consultant Prasanto K. Roy told IANS. "As someone who tracked (wrote about) online violence in 2013-14, I see a sharp escalation of violence online and a deterioration in the discourse, aggravated by political parties, their information cells, and their arms-length models of propagation where there are layers of propagandist groups," he added. In this model, where there are layers of propagandist groups, each group is removed further from the previous, so there is plausible deniability by the political party concerned when something really vicious or despicable is outed, Roy explained. --IANS gb/vd (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) After staging a global walkout and sit-in protest against workplace harassment, Google employees now demand that parent company Alphabet's CEO Larry Page must immediately meet them and publicly address their concerns. In a post on online publishing platform Medium, the group "Google Walkout For Real Change" said the company has had six months to meet these demands. "In that time, they've partially met only one of them. Not only that, but the company has begun retaliating against some of the Walkout organisers," the group said on Wednesday. Last November, nearly 20,000 Google employees across the world walked out following the company's mishandling of sexual harassment allegations. "The walkout was a turning point: a moment where Googlers called on the company to do right by its people. We issued a clear, articulate, and actionable set of demands," the group added. "Larry controls Alphabet's board and has the individual authority to make changes, where others do not. "Google seems to have lost its mooring, and trust between workers and the company is deeply broken. "As the company progresses from crisis to crisis, it is clear Google management is failing, along with HR. It's time to put HR on a PIP (Performance Improvement Plan) and bring in someone we trust to supervise it. It's time to escalate," the group warned. Google employees also staged a sit-in protest at the IT major's offices across the world on May 1. Two Google employees, Claire Stapleton and Meredith Whittaker who helped organise the walkout in November, faced trouble for their action. "We call on Google to unblock Meredith's transfer, and allow her to continue her work as before, fully funded and supported, and to allow Claire to transfer to a new team without continued retaliation and interference," the group demanded. Google employees also called for a transparent, open investigation of HR and its "abysmal handling of employee complaints related to working conditions, discrimination, harassment and retaliation". "Google's HR department is broken. Over and over again it prioritizes the company and the reputation of abusers and harassers over their victims. The collateral damage is all around us. Time is up. We need third party investigators. Even Uber did this," the group wrote. A Google spokesperson referred to an earlier statement, saying: "We prohibit retaliation in the workplace and publicly share our very clear policy. "To make sure that no complaint raised goes unheard at Google, we give employees multiple channels to report concerns, including anonymously, and investigate all allegations of retaliation." --IANS na/ksk (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Guaido has said that he remains a free man because the government of incumbent President Nicolas Maduro is "too afraid" of the consequences of arresting him. "Because they're scared. Those that try to spread or generate a perception of control are the ones that don't have it," Guaido told CNN in an interview on Wednesday. The Maduro government has accused Guaido, the opposition controlled National Assembly president, and several other opposition leaders of planning a failed coup on April 30. Guaido has been recognised by more than 50 countries, including the US, as Venezuela's interim president after he self-proclaimed it on January 23. In the interview, Guaido was at times vague and evasive when trying to explain why his political uprising failed. "We have offered amnesty, perhaps not enough. We have to insist. Now there is a fundamental element -- the armed forces -- they will have an important role not only in the transition but the reconstruction of Venezuela," he said. Asked if US military intervention was still an option, Guaido indicated it would be one of the final options and clarified that military action did not have to come from Washington. Guaido told CNN that he has remained in close touch with the US President Donald Trump's administration and was in contact with American officials earlier this week. He however, would not elaborate on his next moves or offer a time line on what happens next for him and his supporters. Guaido's comments came just hours before one of his closest allies and Vice President of the National Assembly, Edgar Zambrano was arrested by security forces with Venezuela's intelligence agency, SEBIN. Guaido tweeted later on Wednesday night that the Maduro government had "kidnapped" Zambrano. "They are trying to break up the body that represents all Venezuelans, but they will not achieve it," he said in his tweet. --IANS ksk (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) To make water management in the state more efficient, Maharashtra is updating its decades-old agricultural maps with the help of aerial survey carried out by Terra Drone India, a subsidiary of Japan-based Terra Drone Corp. Terra Drone India on Thursday said it has completed the aerial survey of 4,200 sq km of agricultural land for the Water Resources Department of the Maharashtra Krishna Valley Development Corp (MKVDC) in India. A total of 1,085 villages and farm boundaries were identified for surveying using unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) or drones. The survey also helped government officials get a clear picture of the crops sown in 4,200 sq km of land and the type of irrigation being used for the same. "When we superimposed the aerial images acquired by our drones on the Maharashtra government's old maps, it was discovered that in some areas, unirrigated land was being used for cultivation purposes, while in others, previously fertile land had been converted into human settlements," Prateek Srivastava, CEO, Terra Drone India, said in a statement. Using drones allowed MKVDC to update its archaic maps in half the time of traditional surveying methods. The survey is in line with MKVDC's mission of safeguarding the availability of water in tail-end agricultural fields. The state-owned enterprise manages irrigation projects in western Maharashtra. Terra Drone India said it surveyed an average of 120 sq km of area per day, acquiring images with 2 cm/pixel resolution. Despite numerous weather constraints, aerial data acquisition was completed within two months, the company said. The Water Resources Department of MKVDC also needed information about the types of crops being sown and the irrigation methods adopted by the farmers. For this, Terra Drone India deployed field surveying teams which collected supplemental information to bolster the data acquired by the drones. "Traditionally, governments have used human-centric methods of surveying. These methods not only lack verification and evidence, they are also prone to manual errors," said Polu Sreedhar, Chief Operating Officer, Terra Drone India. "Drone surveys, meanwhile, gives organisations clear evidence in the form of aerial imagery which they can use to improve their efficiency and increase their revenue," Sreedhar added. --IANS gb/mr (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu on Thursday hailed his West Bengal counterpart Mamata Banerjee as a "Bengal tigress" and said she had "taught a lesson" to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The Telugu Desam Party (TDP) chief attended Banerjee's election rally in West Midnapore district's industrial city of Kharagpur in support of her party Trinamool Congress' Lok Sabha candidate Manas Bhunia. "Prime Minister Modi is creating problems across the country but West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has taught him a lesson. 'Didi' is a Bengal tigress," Naidu said here, speaking in Bengali which evoked loud cheers from the Trinamool supporters. He said West Bengal will play an "important role" in forming the new government at the Centre after the 2019 poll results. "I have come here from Andhra Pradesh to meet you people. What Bengal thinks today, the country thinks tomorrow. Bengal will play an important role in this Lok Sabha election. You people will decide who will come to power at the Centre," he added. --IANS mgr/kr/bg (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Taking a dig at Mamata Banerjee for saying that she doesn't accept him as the Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi on Thursday said the West Bengal Chief Minister rather feels proud to accept Pakistan's Prime Minister and accused her of insulting the Constitution. "One can easily gauge the level of her anxiety hearing the language she has been using... Didi is even insulting the country's Constitution," Modi said at an election meeting at Kamladanga in Bankura district. "You will be shocked to know she has been publicly saying that she is not ready to accept the Prime Minister of the nation, whereas she feels proud to accept Pakistan's Prime Minister." Modi accused Banerjee of destroying Bengal as "she is addicted to power in the state". "Now, she is further bent on destroying the state out of fear of losing power. She is not bothered about 'Ma Maati Maanush' but her own benefits, seat of power and also her relatives, nephew and extortionists," he said. Modi said he was told that the Trinamool government tried its best to stop the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) from holding the rally. "But no one can stop the person who has the blessing of the people." Modi reiterated his earlier accusation that the Trinamool Congress chief neither received nor returned his calls to assess the losses inflicted by cyclone Fani last week. "During the cyclone, I called her twice but she ignored it due to her arrogance and preferred not to speak to me. The Central government wanted to conduct a meeting with the state officials in order to extend help, but she refused," he said. "This injustice done to Bengal" and "Didi's arrogance" would ruin the state, Modi added. Addressing BJP workers, Modi said the entire nation was "talking about the way you people are standing face-to-face with the Trinamool backed miscreants". "The anarchy spread by Didi in Bengal is strengthening the resolve to remove her from power. "She is the Chief Minister but she is allowing all sorta of people to run the show. The Trinamool is there only in name, but the actual show is being run by Jagai Madhai (a nexus between Trinamool leaders and extortionists and miscreants)," he said. Modi also said extortionists of Banerjee's party were "not sparing MNREGA as well". Possessing job cards is the right of the beneficiaries but "these are also snatched by these Trinamool extortionists" who were also "looting funds sent by the centre" for welfare schemes. "Tell me, should the people who have robbed you be spared?" he asked. Modi also took potshots at Banerjee for seeking proof of airstrikes carried out by the Indian Air Force on terror camps in Pakistan while using Bangladeshi artists in Trinamool's poll campaign and "backing" infiltrators. "Didi has 'mamta' (kindness) for infiltrators and foreign artists, but she has no feelings for the sons of the soil who are playing the role of protectors of the country. Have you seen when our strong sons attacked the terrorists by entering their shelters, she demanded the number of dead bodies of the terrorists." He said when the entire country was celebrating the airstrikes, "West Bengal refused to do so". "People who don't know how to praise the achievements and valour of the nation will be punished by the people of the nation and the state. "People are giving their mandate for a strong government," he added. --IANS bnd-bdc/ssp/ksk (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) ISTANBUL - Turkish president Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Thursday vowed to liberate Manbej and east of the Euphrates in Syria from terrorist groups. He was speaking at the National Defense University in Ankara to cadets, hinting at the use of Turkish troops against the Kurdish militias of the YPG. The Turkish army is ''the largest power'' against threats posed by the terrorist groups in that area, he said, noting that Turkey had previously conducted two cross-border operations in 2016 against the YPG and the Islamic State (ISIS). His words came as the country was entering a delicate period of a 45-day election campaign ahead of a repeat vote for Istanbul, after the election of opposition member Ekrem Imamoglu. In the past, such as near the early vote in November 2015, the Turkish leader had launched other military operations against the PKK, a terrorist group active in Turkey and linked to the YPG. With the BJP expecting major gains from West Bengal, where the party has emerged as a force to reckon with, its biggest campaigners -- Prime Minister Narendra Modi and party President Amit Shah -- are carpet bombing the state canvassing for the Lok Sabha polls. The charge by Modi and Shah is in keeping with the awareness in the saffron camp that it might not repeat its 2014 feat of nearly sweeping the Hindi heartland states, three of which -- Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh -- it lost to the Congress in the Assembly polls held in November and December. Having devised an alternative "Look East" policy , the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is laying great stress on states like Odisha and West Bengal, particularly the latter for having the third highest number of Lok Sabha seats -- 42 -- after Uttar Pradesh (80) and Maharashtra (48). Modi and Shah's frequent visits to West Bengal are an indicator of the importance the BJP attaches to the state in its bid to retain power in New Delhi. Between March 26 and May 1, that broadly covers the campaign for the first five phases, Modi has held a total of 80 rallies or road shows -- 14 less than Shah. While Uttar Pradesh has seen the most number of rallies and road shows by the two -- Modi 13, Shah 12 -- Bengal comes second. Modi and Shah have together addressed more rallies in West Bengal than in their home state Gujarat. Even compared to Maharashtra, which it rules in alliance with the Shiv Sena, the eastern state apparently holds significance in BJP's scheme of things. Amid huge crowd turnouts, Modi has held ten rallies in West Bengal including one at the famed Brigade Parade Ground in Kolkata, while Shah has addressed 11 during the March 26-May 1 period. Riding on the party's Hindutva and anti-infiltrator planks, Modi and Shah have sought to encash on what the BJP has claimed to be growing disenchantment of the masses with the Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress regime. She has also been attacked over what the saffron outfit calls her strategy of "Muslim appeasement". In all their meetings, the two leaders have gone all guns blazing against Banerjee, who has time and again displayed her ambition of playing a key role at the national level. With the Congress fighting to retain its handful of strongholds and the Left not expected to make much of an impact, the contest in the bulk of the 42 seats in the state is mostly between the BJP and the Trinamool Congress. In 2014, the Trinamool bagged 34 seats followed by the Congress with four while two seats each were won by the Left Front and the BJP. Shah, whose plans to undertake "Save Democracy Rath Yatras" in West Bengal in December were foiled by the state government, has hit the campaign trail with a vengeance. Going hammer and tongs against Banerjee and her Trinamool over alleged corruption and law and order issues, Shah has vowed to throw out of the state "all infiltrators", likening them to "termites". Modi, too, has been unsparing in his attacks against Mamata. Pillorying her over hindering the state's development, he has sarcastically described her as "speed-breaker didi" and highlighted the Narada, Saradha, and Rose Valley scams. He has also mentioned "extortion rackets" operating in the garb of syndicates supplying building materials. Modi also set a lot of tongues wagging with his claims that as many as 40 Trinamool MLAs were in touch with him and would desert the party once the BJP won the poll. "When the lotus will bloom all over Bengal after May 23, Didi (Banerjee), you will see that your MLAs will also abandon you and run away. Forty of your MLAs are in touch with me even today," Modi told an election rally in Hooghly district on April 29. With Bengal voting in all the seven phases of the polls, both Modi and Shah have been trooping down to the state addressing mega rallies before every round. They are likely to hold road shows in Kolkata before the last phase of elections on May 19. State BJP president Dilip Ghosh said Bengal is the main "target state" for his party. "Naturally, Modi and Shah are holding so many rallies in the state. "The state leadership has taken BJP to the present position after working hard for three years. But we don't have that many celebrity leaders in the state. So they (Modi and Shah) are coming so often to lead from the front," Ghosh told IANS. However, the Trinamool was dismissive of Modi-Shah's efforts. "They will lose wherever Shah-Modi are coming and campaigning. Yes, I have heard that people are attending Modi's rallies. But they are attending to see PM and his helicopters. People know how much development taken place in the state under Mamata Banerjee, " Trinamool party leader in Rajya Sabha, Derek O'Brien told IANS. Apart from Bengal, Modi and Shah have also extensively campaigned in Odisha as also other eastern states -- Bihar and Jharkhand. The four eastern states collectively have 117 parliamentary seats of which the NDA in 2014 secured 46 and the BJP's number was 37. However, the majority of these wins were from Bihar which it now rules in alliance with the JD-U and Jharkhand where it also runs its government. Of the 63 seats in West Bengal and Odisha, BJP/NDA had won just three seats (one in Odisha). --IANS ssp/vd (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) American news magazine Time has featured Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the cover of its May 20 international edition with a headline that may create controversy across India amid the election season. The headline in the cover reads "India's Divider in Chief" and carries a portrait of the Prime Minister. A secondary headline on the cover reads "Modi the Reformer." The title "India's Divider in Chief" pertains to the cover story in the magazine, written by Aatish Taseer, with the headline "Can the World's Largest Democracy Endure Another Five Years of a Modi Government?" The write up compares former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru's idea of secularism with the prevailing social "stress" under Modi, who "demonstrated no desire to foster brotherly feelings between Hindus and Muslims," as per the article. Besides, the article also recalls the 2002 Gujarat riots that claimed many lives. The entire article is based on Hindu-Muslim relations and blames Modi for being pro-Hindu. This is not the first time that Time has come out with critical commentary about Modi. In an article published in 2012, the magazine had described Modi as a controversial, ambitious and a shrewd politician. The article written by Aatish Taseer also criticises the Congress, saying that it has little to offer other than dynastic politics, and termed Modi "lucky" as the opposition is "weak". "Modi has won -- and may yet win again -- but to what end? His brand of populism has certainly served as a convincing critique of Indian society, of which there could be no better symbol than the Congress Party. They have little to offer other than the dynastic principle, yet another member of the Nehru-Gandhi family. "India's oldest party has no more political imagination than to send Priyanka Gandhi -- Rahul's sister -- to join her brother's side. It would be the equivalent of the Democrat's fielding Hillary Clinton again in 2020, with the added enticement of Chelsea as VP," the article read. "Modi is lucky to be blessed with so weak an opposition -- a ragtag coalition of parties, led by the Congress, with no agenda other than to defeat him," it added. Reacting to the article, the Congress said that it was not surprised as under Modi's reign, India has seen ugly instances of mob lynching against the minorities, while there has been a conspicuous silence from his party, the BJP. "Modi in 2019 has brazenly flouted his Hindutva mission. In an unprecedented polarising speech, he talked of a Hindu minority seat in Wayanad from where Rahul Gandhi is contesting the elections. "By fielding Sadhvi Pragya Singh Thakur as the BJP candidate from Bhopal, Modi was sending out a clear message that he was backing the RSS agenda of a Hindu Rashtra," Congress spokesperson Sanjay Jha told IANS. He further said that Modi took the entire country for a ride under the subterfuge of development and this time he has bared his communal fangs and let loose a poisonous overflow in our secular society. The All India Mahila Congress tweeted: "Sitting PM makes it to the cover of TIME Magazine and the title is 'Divider In Chief'. Of the great democracies to fall to populism, India was the first, says the opening sentence of the article. Your truth is for all to see @narendramodi." --IANS bns/arm (Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday accused the West Bengal government of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee of establishing mafia raj in coal mines and depriving mine workers of their remuneration. Countering the allegation, the Trinamool Congress supremo threw a challenge to Modi, saying she would withdraw her party's nominees in all 42 Lok Sabha constituencies in West Bengal if Modi could prove the charge against even one candidate. "You know better how Trinamool's mafia raj is continuing in coal mines here. Trinamool leaders are making money while mines workers are deprived of their remuneration," Modi said at an election rally in Bankura. He said people sacrificed their lives in a bid to restore democracy. "Their sacrifice will not go in vain," Modi told a rally in Purulia later. "Purulia is endowed with natural resources. You are sitting on black gold. Till now, successive governments in the state have established mafia raj here. In fact, the Trinamool government has made mafias a part of its activities," he alleged. Continuing his attack on Trinamool, Modi said when a party does " for the sake of infiltrators, mafias, goons and hooligans, it cannot remember its responsibility for tribals. "That is what is going on in West Bengal," he said. "When Modi talks about such anarchy, didi gets angry." Banerjee hit back strongly. "You said Trinamool's candidates are coal mafias. I challenge you. I will withdraw the party's nominees in all 42 Lok Sabha constituencies in West Bengal if you are able to prove such allegations against any of our candidates," she told an election rally. Coal comes under the purview of the central government and BJP leaders become agents of coal transactions, she alleged. "I have a pen drive. If I make it public, documents of coal mafias and cow smuggling would be out," she threatened Modi. Modi went on: "Didi should worry about the wrath of the chit fund victims, the woman who are harassed daily, the qualified but unemployed youth, about the state government's employees who don't get dearness allowance and salary as per 7th Pay Commission." According to him, she should worry about the rage of Kali-Saraswati-Durga-Ram bhakt who has to worship amidst fear. --IANS bdc-bnd/mr (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday addressed first time voters and said they must beware of 'khichdi' (read coalition) governments that bring anarchy and instability. The Prime Minister was addressing an election rally in Azamgarh that has over 40,000 first time voters. He said: "Twenty years ago, the United Front government brought instability and mid-term elections. The UPA governments made India hang its head in shame with a slew of scams. Such governments cannot face challenges." The Prime Minister said that parties like the SP-BSP and Congress had promoted vote bank which had put the nation in trouble. "In the past five years, Azamgarh has not been blamed for any terror link. We have checked terror activities that have now been restricted to Kashmir and a few border areas. The 'mahamilavati' governments allowed Pakistan to dominate over us but the BJP government succeeded in getting global support against terrorist Masood Azhar," he pointed out. The Prime Minister said that his government had kept national interests above self interests. "Yeh naya Hindustan hai- yeh ghar mein ghus kar marega," he said. The Prime Minister said that his government had not differentiated between castes while drawing up various welfare schemes and electricity was not given on caste basis in his regime. Referring to the Azamgarh BJP candidate Dinesh Lal Yadav Nirahua, the Prime Minister said that Bhojpuri cinema had attained global recognition due to artists like Nirahua, Ravi Kishan and Manoj Tiwari. The Prime Minister concluded his speech with 'Abki baar' and the people responded with 'Modi sarkar'. --IANS amita/mr (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) North Korea launched two short-range ballistic missiles on Thursday, South Korea's military said, just five days after the communist nation launched a barrage of projectiles into the East Sea. Pyongyang launched the projectiles at 4.29 p.m. and 4.49 p.m. (local time) towards the east, which had an estimated range of 420 km and 270 km respectively, before landing in the East Sea, also known as the Sea of Japan, South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) said in a statement. South Korea's presidential office expressed serious concern about the launches, saying they are "not helpful at all" to efforts to improve inter-Korean relations and ease military tensions on the peninsula, Yonhap news agency reported. The South Korea's military statement added that it had detected that one of the projectiles was launched from Sino-ri and the other was launched from Kusong, in northwest North Korea. Pyongyang's move adds yet another complication into its stalled negotiations with the US and peace talks with South Korea. The statement said the intelligence agencies of the US and South Korea were carrying out a detailed analysis of the launch. Shortly after the first firing, Japan said no North Korean projectile had landed in its territorial waters. Pyongyang latest weapons test shows the regime's harder stance after the deadlock in denuclearization dialogue following the failed February summit with the US in Hanoi. Talks between North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and US Preside Donald Trump ended abruptly after Pyongyang proposed a gradual disarmament of the Korean peninsula with the progressive lifting of international sanctions. The US, which is demanding a comprehensive and immediate disarmament, considered the proposition unacceptable. Since then, the regime has taken a harder stand towards the White House and Seoul. The launch of such missiles violates the sanctions imposed by the UN, which ban North Korea from testing any kind of ballistic missiles or related technology. North Korea had last week also launched several short-ranged missiles. The new development coincided with the visit of US' Special Representative for North Korea Stephen Biegun to Seoul to discuss the situation on the Korean peninsula. Experts said what Pyongyang launched on Thursday could have either been a Scud-type ballistic missile or a new type of ground-to-ground Iskander missile identical to that test-fired last week. --IANS soni/ (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Privacy cannot be a "luxury good" that's only available to people who can afford to buy premium products and services, Google CEO Sundar Pichai has said. In an op-ed written for The New York Times, Pichai defended his company's approach to privacy and users' data. "Privacy must be equally available to everyone in the world, Google's approach is to make privacy more democratic," Pichai wrote on Tuesday. Google has been facing questions about the collection of its users' location data. "People today are rightly concerned about how their information is used and shared, yet they all define privacy in their own ways. I've seen this firsthand as I talk to people in different parts of the world. "Privacy is personal, which makes it even more vital for companies to give people clear, individual choices around how their data is used," wrote Pichai. At its annual I/O developer conference this week, Google has announced a slew of additional privacy and security tools for its users across products and platforms. "For everyone" is a core philosophy for Google; it's built into our mission to create products that are universally accessible and useful. That's why Search works the same for everyone, whether you're a professor at Harvard or a student in rural Indonesia," Pichai noted. He also called on the US to introduce a new legislation for protecting users' data. "Legislation will help us work toward ensuring that privacy protections are available to more people around the world," Pichai added. --IANS na/ksk (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra has attacked Prime Minister Narendra Modi since beginning of her campaigning for the Lok Sabha elections but the attacks seem to have grown sharper and more hard-hitting since the BJP leader targeted her father as "Brashtachri Number 1". Over the past few days, Priyanka Gandhi has likened Modi to Kaurava ruler Duryodhana who was known for his arrogance and to a schoolboy who makes excuses for failures. On Thursday, at an election rally at Uttar Pradesh's Pratapgarh where Modi had made the remarks against her father, Priyanka Gandhi, in a blistering attack, slammed him as "a coward and weak PM". "Maine inse bada kayar aur kamzor pradhan mantra nahin dekha (I have not seen a more coward and weak Prime Minister than him," she said. Noting that political power does not come with big campaigns on television, she said: "It comes when one believes that the people are bigger than any position. A person should have the courage to listen to people's problems, solve their problems and listen to criticism. This Prime Minister neither listens to you nor responds to your questions." During her road shows in Delhi on Wednesday, she threw a challenge to Modi to contest the last two phases of the general elections on the issues of demonetisation, GST, women's safety and promises made to the youth. "His situation is like a schoolboy who never comes with his homework. When the teachers asks him, he says Nehruji took my paper away and hid it or Indira Gandhi made a paper boat out of it and put in the water," she said, in a sarcastic attack on Modi's remarks that Congress governments had done little for the country. Seeking to connect with the people in the road show in North East Delhi, Priyanka Gandhi said she was born in Delhi and knew every of its lanes, but Modi has been here for five years and does not know what people want. She said voters should give "appropriate answer" for all the "false promises" made by Modi in the last five years. At a rally in Ambala on Tuesday, she said BJP and Modi's "arrogance is like that of Duryodhana". "This country has never forgiven arrogance. Even Duryodhana had such arrogance, history is witness to it, Mahabharata is witness to it. When Lord Krishna tried to make him see sense, he wanted to take him hostage." Also citing lines of Hindi poet Ramdhari Singh Dinkar, she said he had written that when a man is headed towards destruction, the first thing he loses is his ability to distinguish between right and wrong. After Modi had attacked Congress President Rahul Gandhi through his father at Pratapgarh, Priyanka Gandhi took to Twitter to hit back a day later. "The Prime Minister who insults martyrs by seeking vote in the name of their sacrifices yesterday crossed his limits by insulting the sacrifice of a noble man who gave his life for the country. The people of Amethi will reply as Rajiv Gandhi sacrificed his life for them. Yes, Modiji, the country never forgives cheating," she said. --IANS ps/vd (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Hours before Narendra Modi was set to arrive in Punjab to campaign for the BJP-SAD, Chief Minister Amarinder Singh asked what audacity the Prime Minister had to seek votes from the people of the state for which he had done nothing. Talking informally with mediapersons on the sidelines of his rally in support of Congress candidate Preneet Kaur in Pratap Nagar here, the Chief Minister said Modi had no moral right to ask for votes in Punjab, for which he had done "absolutely nothing and whose people he had left to fend for themselves despite the acute problems faced by them". The Modi government did nothing for Punjab or its people in the last two years and two months since the Congress government took over in the state, despite repeated requests personally by him, showing a total lack of callous selfishness, he said earlier at the rally, asserting that his government was left to fend for itself despite the massive debt legacy left behind by the erstwhile BJP-SAD government. Not only had the state gone ahead with its promised farm loan waiver scheme but had expanded the primary health insurance cover to 42 lakh families instead of the mere 14.96 lakh families covered under the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana, Amarinder Singh pointed out. Describing Modi as a self-obsessed man, the Chief Minister drew a sharp contrast between the Prime Minister's handling of the Balakot success and Indira Gandhi's achievement in splitting Pakistan to create Bangladesh during the 1971 war. The nation has seen how Modi has ruled in the past five years, destroying every institution and ruining all sections of the society with his ill-conceived policies such as demonetization and GST, he added. Amarinder Singh compared Modi's partisan style of functioning to that of Manmohan Singh, pointing out that the latter conceded all demands of the Akali government. Stressing the need for change, the Chief Minister said the fate of the country was now in the hands of the people. The nation's growth rate had been put in the reverse direction and every citizen of India was suffering under the Modi regime, he added. Referring to the Rs 31,000 food credit issue, the Chief Minister said the self-serving Akalis had put an unnecessary burden on the state by agreeing to convert the amount to a loan just ahead of the Assembly elections. Despite his government taking up the issue at all levels, including meetings between the finance ministers, nothing had been done by the central government to ease the burden, he said. Lashing out at the Akalis for their petty thinking in ignoring the development of his home constituency of Patiala, Amarinder Singh said Patialvis were his family and he would continue to ensure their welfare. Earlier, Preneet Kaur also came down heavily on Modi over his fake promises and his "destructive decisions" such as GST and demonetization. Modi's attack on the late Rajiv Gandhi showed the depth to which he could stoop in his desperation to woo voters, she said. --IANS vg/mr (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Congress President Rahul Gandhi will address election rallies in Himachal Pradesh and Chandigarh on Friday. Gandhi will address his first election rally in the hill state in Una town in support of the party's Hamirpur candidate Ram Lal Thakur, who is pitted against sitting Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Anurag Thakur, a three-time MP. Likewise, he would address a rally in Chandigarh in favour of former Union Minister Pawan Bansal, who is contesting against BJP MP Kirron Kher, who is seeking re-election. Voting for all four seats of Himachal Pradesh and the lone Chandigarh seat will take place on May 19. --IANS vg/mag/bg (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Supreme Court on Thursday dismissed the plea by families of those killed along with former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi by a LTTE suicide bomber at Tamil Nadu's Sriperumbudur on May 21, 1991, opposing the release of the seven remaining convicts in the case. A bench, headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi, said: "All aspects were covered in the earlier constitution bench verdict in the case and, therefore, nothing survives in the case. In view of the above, the writ petition stands disposed of." As an outcome of the apex court's decision, Tamil Nadu Governor Banwarilal Purohit will take a decision regarding freeing the seven convicts held guilty in the assassination of the former PM and 16 others. On September 9, 2018, the Tamil Nadu Cabinet passed an order recommending the release of the convicts but the issue has been pending before the Governor, who is yet to take any decision, as the petition of the victims' families was pending in the top court. When in 2014, the then Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa decided to free the convicts, who have already been in jail for 28 years after the apex court commuted their death sentences to life imprisonment, K. Ramasugandam, John Joseph, R. Mala, M. Samuvel Diraviyam, America V. Narayanan and S. Abbas filed a petition against it in the apex court. Senior advocates Gopal Sankaranarayanan and Prabu Ramasubramanium, representing A.G. Perarivalan, who is one of the seven convicts, brought the CJI's attention to the victims' petition pending in the top court since 2014. They also argued that none of the convicts were ever made parties in the case, despite that their lives were directly linked, and as a consequence, the petition has become infructuous. Agreeing with the argument, the court said: "Having considered the matter, we are of the view that no live issue remains for adjudication in view of the Constitution Bench judgement of this court." A five-judge Constitution bench, headed by then Chief Justice H.L. Dattu, had in 2015 upheld Centre's right to decide, on the remission of sentence of life convicts, specifically where the case was investigated by the Centre. It then allowed the three-judge bench to give the final word on the case. Sankaranarayanan contended the three-judge bench had already closed the case, and as a consequence, there is simply nothing left in the top court and the court agreed. Following these verdicts in 2015, the Tamil Nadu government had written to the Centre in March 2016 proposing remission of sentence of these convicts as it expected the Centre would be in harmony on this issue. But, in April 2018, the Centre refused to budge from its previous stand opposing the release, saying the crime was unparalleled in the history of the country. The apex court took an opposite stand to the Centre in September 2018, and asked the Tamil Nadu Governor to decide the fate of the convicts. --IANS ss/vd (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) BEIRUT - Jordanian prime minister Omar Razza has asked his ministers to resign, as occurred in previous government reshuffles. Reports were from Jordan and other Arab media on Thursday. Razzaz, who took office about a year ago after violent anti-government protests in Jordan during an economic crisis that continues even now, thanked his government ministers for the work they had done. The reshuffle being drawn up is the third since June 2018, when Razzaz's government was formed for the first time. The first was in October and the second in January. In recent days the World Bank approved the sending of a second tranche of financial aid to Jordan worth 166 million dollars to support the country's economy. The Congress on Thursday said late Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi did not use aircraft carrier INS Viraat for vacation but for an official purpose. The statement comes a day after Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday accused Rajiv Gandhi of using the aircraft carrier and its personnel for vacations with his foreigner in-laws. Addressing a press conference here, Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera said Modi was attacking Gandhi as he had no achievements of his government to present before voters. "Vice Admiral (retired) Vinod Pasricha has told TV channels that this is a lie. Rajivji was on an official visit. It was not a holiday. Facts do not matter to Modi," he said. Khera said Modi was the first Prime Minister of the country who was seeking votes on his "failures". "What has happened in Pulwama is a monumental failure of the intelligence. However Modiji dared to seek votes over it," he said. Issues such as demonetization, unemployment and Rafale aircraft deal were not the part of the debate for Modi, he said. "Modi may hold Rajiv Gandhi responsible for all this. The government has informed the Supreme Court that documents related to Rafale were stolen. Modi may hold Rajivji responsible for it. Or be it fugitive offenders who flew away with Rs 1 lakh crore," Khera said. "Modi may say Rajiv Gandhi asked him to carry out the demonetization exercise." Khera said Modi had tried to shift the blame for "his foolish acts" in the last five years to late Prime Ministers Gandhi and also Jawaharlal Nehru. Last week, Modi had called Gandhi "bhrashtachari No 1". --IANS spk/ksk/mr (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) In a bid to become a dominant player in the global toy retail industry, Mukesh Ambani-led Reliance Industries Limited (RIL) on Thursday announced it has acquired iconic British toy retailer Hamleys from Chinese firm C Banner International for an undisclosed sum. Of late, the toy company has struggled financially due to uncertainties owing to Brexit and economic slowdown in the UK. Reliance Brands, a subsidiary of Reliance Industries, has signed a definitive agreement with Hong Kong-listed firm C Banner International, to acquire 100 per cent shares of Hamleys, the company said in a statement. The deal will give the Indian acquirer complete control of Hamleys retail operations spread over 167 stores across 18 countries. Reliance, which already has the master franchise for Hamleys in India, will also get to own 88 stores across 29 cities that is currently operates. The company is named after William Hamley, who founded a toy shop called 'Noah's Ark' in London, in 1760. Ownership of the shop passed through the family and by 1837 when Hamley's grandsons operated the store, it had become famous. People belonging to the royalty and nobility were among its customers. "We have built a very significant and profitable business in toy retailing under the Hamleys brand in India. This worldwide acquisition places Reliance in the frontline of global retail," said Darshan Mehta, President and CEO of Reliance Brands. C Banner International acquired Hamleys in 2015 in a 100 million pound deal. --IANS na/ravi/sn/prs (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Amid reports of an acute shortage of the summer refreshment syrup Rooh Afza in India, its maker Hamdard Laboratories (India) on Thursday said that the syrup is now available in the market and can be bought from major retail stores and grocery outlets across the country. In a statement, Hamdard said: "Full capacity production and a well-planned distribution infrastructure are ensuring it is reaching all corners of the country." The statement, however, noted that the company was facing supply constraints of certain herbal ingredients which were not available due to a temporary shortage. The company further asked consumers not to be misled by "incorrect information being circulated online and in print about non-availability of Rooh Afza." Hammad Ahmed, the "Chief Mutawalli", or the CEO, at Hamdard Laboratories India said: "We at Hamdard continue our long tradition of providing health and wellness to our customers. As always, we strive to maintain and grow the relationships we have fostered with them." Earlier reports said that there is acute shortage of Rooh Afza in the country during the Muslim holy month of Ramzan, following which its Hamdard Pakistan countepart offered to supply Rooh Afza in India through the Wagah border. --IANS rrb/bc (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Samsung Electronics Co on Thursday introduced the world's highest-resolution image sensor, with 64 megapixels for smartphones, to meet the growing demand for mobile devices with better image quality. Samsung unveiled two new 0.8-micrometer pixel image sensors -- the 64-megapixel ISOCELL Bright GW1 and the 48-megapixel ISOCELL Bright GM2, expanding its 0.8-micrometer pixel image sensor lineup, the smallest pixel size currently available in the market. The world's biggest smartphone vendor has focused on improving camera function across its range of smartphones, as more people consider picture quality to be one of the most important features when buying new devices, Yonhap news agency reported. "Over the past few years, mobile phone cameras have become the main instrument for recording and sharing our everyday moments," Park Yong-in, executive vice president of sensor business at Samsung Electronics, said. "With more pixels and advanced pixel technologies, Samsung ISOCELL Bright GW1 and GM2 will bring a new level of photography to today's sleekest mobile devices." The two image sensors are currently sampling and are expected to go into mass production in the second half of this year, Samsung said. Samsung said it will accelerate technology development in image sensors for smartphone cameras to grab a bigger share of the growing market. "The image sensor market is expected to grow to a level comparable to the current memory chip market through 2030 in line with advancements in artificial intelligence and 5G technologies," Park told reporters. The company said it has been also developing various sensors for automotive cameras to meet growing demands for self-driving cars. "Vehicle components are the next market for image sensors," Kwon Jin-hyun, vice president of Samsung's System LSI sensor marketing, said. "We have been preparing various sensors for cameras used in cars, ranging from a parking assistant system to autonomous driving. Negotiations have been already been under way with some clients." Samsung has been actively promoting its system semiconductor products after announcing a 133 trillion-won ($115.7 billion) investment plan through 2030 to expand its non-memory chip and foundry business. Image sensor shipments by Japan's Sony accounted for 26.1 percent of the global market last year, trailed by Samsung's 23.2 per cent, according to Japanese research firm Techno System Research. --IANS ksc/vd (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Supreme Court on Thursday dismissed a plea by Tej Bahadur Yadav, who was sacked from the BSF, regarding the cancellation of his nomination papers from the Varanasi Lok Sabha constituency. Yadav wanted to contest against Prime Minister Narendra Modi. A bench of Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and Justices Deepak Gupta and Sanjiv Khanna, declining the plea, noted that the court did not see any merit in the petition. Yadav moved the court through his counsel Prashant Bhushan. On Wednesday, the court asked the Election Commission to examine Yadav' plea. The court said: "We found no ground to entertain the petition filed under Article 32 of the Constitution." Yadav's counsel contended before the court that the dismissal should become an obstacle as he intends to file an election petition. Yadav had moved court seeking a direction quashing the May 1 order of the Returning Officer, who rejected his nomination paper from Varanasi. Yadav said his plea was dismissed due to indiscipline which was not covered under Section 9 of the Representation of Peoples Act, 1951, and as a result it was not mandatory for him to furnish certificate as contemplated under Section 33 (3) of the Act of 1951. Yadav's nomination was rejected as he could not bring on record that his dismissal was not on corruption charges or due to any integrity issues. "It seems the decision was taken keeping in mind the sensitivity of the contest in Varanasi and to give a walkover to the candidate (Modi) of the ruling party (BJP) by disqualifying the petitioner," Bhushan contended. Yadav claimed he was a strong candidate against the Prime Minister and his popularity was "gaining momentum" and added that was why he was supported by the Samajwadi Party-Bahujan Samaj Party combine in Uttar Pradesh. Stating that "the malafide is apparent," Yadav alleged that the Returning Officer had shown haste in deciding on his candidature, adding that the official could have at least allowed the Election Commission to respond to his application. --IANS ss/mr (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) In a significant development, the Supreme Court Collegium has rejected the Centre's plea to reconsider the recommendation for the elevation of Justices Aniruddha Bose and A.S. Bopanna to the Supreme Court. However, on Thursday, it recommended Justices Bhushan Ramkrishna Gavai and Surya Kant for elevation as top court judges. "The Collegium resolves to reiterate the afore-mentioned recommendation dated April 12, 2019, especially since nothing adverse regarding competence, conduct or integrity of Justices (1) Aniruddha Bose, and (2) A.S. Bopanna, has been pointed out," the Supreme Court said in a statement on Wednesday. Justice Bose stands at number 12 in the combined seniority list of all-India High Court judges, while Justice Bopanna stands at number 36. On April 12, both judges were recommended by the Collegium for elevation to the Supreme Court after considering factors such as merit, seniority, as well as regional representation on the Supreme Court Bench. The Collegium stated, although the Centre had rejected the recommendation to elevate Justices Bose and Bopanna, that it would go against the principle of regional representation, but it has a different view on the matter. The Collegium, rejecting the Centre's plea, said that it was aware of the parameters while recommending the above two judges, and therefore, following the procedure of the seniority amongst judges in their respective High Courts and then looking into the combined seniority on all-India basis, it reiterated its proposal to elevate the two judges. Currently, Justice Gavai is a Judge of the Bombay High Court and Justice Kant is the Chief Justice of the Himachal Pradesh High Court. According to the Collegium recommendation published on the website, the five-member Collegium headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi met on Wednesday. At the meeting it was decided to recommended the two judges for the elevation as Supreme Court judges. Currently, there 27 judges in the top court against the sanctioned strength of 31 judges. --IANS ss/ksk (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The (MCA) is likely to ask Serious Investigation Office (SFIO) to probe the alleged fund diversion and writing off of investments by The fresh investigation follows recommendation given by MCA's regional office after inspecting the airline's books. In Jet Airways' preliminary probe, Registrar of Companies RoC (Mumbai) told the MCA that it has found violation of Companies Act and unaccounted investments, official sources said, adding the natural way forward is an SFIO probe . IANS had reported on Wednesday that the RoC had submitted a report and that appropriate action would be taken after its examination. The SFIO will now look into Jet's written-off investments in various subsidiary companies and try to source where they have landed. The SFIO will also start the process for seeking personal appearance of the company's then top management in an attempt to find out why the company suddenly posted loss in the fiscal year 2018 after a string of profits. The company had received fund infusion in the form of Etihad 's investments twice during the period. In his complaint, whistleblower had alleged that Jet Airways' promoters were trying to siphon Rs 5,125 crore from the airline's books. The RoC has completed the books' inspection of as part of its prelimnary investigation before turning to SFIO for a full-fledged investigation. The RoC investigation was initiated last August after the company deferred its first-quarter FY19 results the same month. The RoC investigation followed a complaint by Arvind Gupta, who was also the chief complainant in the ICICI- case. In the complaint, Gupta also alleged that the audit committee was unable to prevent the fund diversion. and JetLite brands undertook transactions with companies owned by promoters in the guise of selling and distribution, Gupta alleged. The Income-Tax department in its February report had already found tax evasion of over Rs 600 crore at Jet Airways. "There were some transactions concerning a Dubai-based entity, which were found to be of suspicious nature," an Income Tax official said on the condition of anonymity. "Commissions were paid to this Dubai-based company, which were excessive in nature," the official. Bollywood actor Shaad Randhawa says he is quite excited about his upcoming film 'Saand Ki Aankh' that features Taapsee Pannu, Bhumi Pednekar and Prakash Jha. Sharing his excitement on being part of the film, Shaad told IANS: "The shooting is over. During the shooting of the film I used to tell everyone that sharing screen space with three talents like Prakash Jha, Bhumi and Taapsee is such a big deal for me, that even if people say one good word about me, I am happy!" The film 'Saand Ki Aankh' is a biographical film based on the life story of sharpshooters Chandro Tomar and her sister-in-law Prakashi Tomar. Shaad, who is the nephew of veteran actress Mumtaz, said he also has another film in his kitty. "I am playing a part in Milap Zaveri's 'Marjaavaan' which is releasing on Dussehra. As we know that film is featuring Siddharth (Malhorta) and Tara, I am looking forward to that as well," said the actor who grabbed eyeballs for his performance in films like 'Woh Lamhe', and 'Aashiqui 2'. --IANS aru/prs (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Mumbai's famed Dabbawalas plan to gift a special set of silver jewellery to Britain's Prince Harry and his wife Meghan Markle's newborn Prince Archie, an office-bearer said here on Thursday. "We shall present the baby with a typical Maharashtrian gift packet comprising silver 'kamarpatta' (waist-band), a pair of wristband (toda) and anklets (wala)," Mumbai Dabbawalas Association spokesperson Subhash Talekar told IANS. He explained that as per Maharashtrian traditions, the grandfather gifts these three items on the birth of a grandson. When asked for the proposed value of these gifts, Talekar replied diplomatically: "We would have loved to present these auspicious items in gold, but we are constrained by resources. It is not the value of the gift but the thought that is valued. And this will be adorned by the blessings of all the Dabbawalas." On Friday, a group of Dabbawalas will scour some of the reputed jewellers in Mumbai for shopping the best-design items for Prince Archie to make it a memorable gift, who is, so to say, already "born with a silver spoon". On Monday, Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex and Meghan, a former American actress, became the proud parents of the baby boy, bringing cheers to the British royal family and the people of Britain. To be known as Master Archie Mountbatten-Windsor instead of one of his father's titles, Prince Archie is seventh in line to the British throne. When Harry and Meghan married on May 19, 2018, the Mumbai Dabbawalas celebrated by distributing sweets to patients and relatives at the Tata Memorial Cancer Hospital and Wadia Hospital. They topped it off with a special gift pack of Maharastrian bridegroom attire of a shiny kurta-pyjama and 'pheta' (headgear) and a 'nau-vari', a colourful Paithani saree, a black-and-golden 'mangalsutra' and seven sparkling green bangles for the bride. The Dabbawalas' emotional connect with the Buckingham Palace goes back to 2003, when, out of the blue, they had a blue-blooded visitor to their premises - Prince Charles. Prince Charles was bowled over by the work and services rendered by the ultra-efficient army of 5,000-odd Dabbawalas, who meticulously ferry tiffin lunch boxes to around 200,000 hungry Mumbai office-goers. This feat has earned them global accolades, a Six Sigma equivalent rating, and their bicycle-suburban train delivery services, conducted without any technological help, has become a subject matter in several leading universities around the world. Returning home, the visibly impressed Prince Charles did not forget his memorable encounter with these humble tiffin-box carriers, serving Mumbaikars since over 126 years now. In April 2005, he invited them on an all-expenses paid week-long trip to attend his wedding with Camilla Parker-Bowles, in London. Mumbai Tiffin Box Suppliers Charitable Trust President Raghunath Medge and his colleague Sopan Mare represented their fraternity at the royal wedding and gifted a set of Maharashtrian attire to the couple. On May 29, 2018, Queen Maxima of The Netherlands also came a calling on the Dabbawalas and witnessed them at the peak of their duties around noon, at the suburban Andheri station. (Quaid Najmi can be contacted at q.najmi@ians.in) --IANS qn/ksk/soni/ (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A brother of the suicide bomber who targeted St. Anthony's Church during the Easter attacks in Sri Lanka last month has been arrested, authorities said on Thursday. The Criminal Investigations Department (CID) informed a court that the suicide bomber's brother was arrested from Kochchikade, the Daily Mirror reported. The April 21 bombings at three churches, three luxury hotels and two other locations killed over 250 people and injured hundreds. The CID said that two others linked to the bombings have also been arrested. --IANS soni/bg (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Sri Venkateswara Temple at Tirumala here owns 9,259 kg of gold deposited with various banks and in its treasury, a senior temple official said on Monday. Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam (TTD), which manages the affairs of the country's richest temple, has 5,387 kg of gold with the State Bank of India and 1,938 kg of gold with the Indian Overseas Bank under gold deposit schemes. TTD Executive Officer Anil Kumar Singhal said Punjab National Bank (PNB) returned 1,381 kg of gold on April 20 as the three-year scheme had reached the maturity. In addition, TTD treasury has 553 mixed gold, comprising small jewellery. A day after the Andhra Pradesh government ordered an inquiry into the alleged lapses into the release and transportation of 1,381 kg gold in the wake of its seizure by the Election Commission in Tamil Nadu, the TTD EO told a news conference that PNB had total responsibility of the gold till delivering it to TTD treasury. The gold was seized in Tiruvallur district of Tamil Nadu on April 17 when it was being brought back from PNB's branch in Chennai to the TTD treasury in Tirupati. He denied media reports that TTD showed documents to the Election Commission claiming ownership of the gold. Singhal made it clear that they were in no way concerned with the security and transportation of the gold as it was the responsibility of the PNB. After the seizure of the gold, the Income Tax department asked the TTD to send an official in connection with the investigations. The TTD official informed the IT that PNB was supposed to deliver the gold at the TTD treasury on April 18. The gold seizure a day before the elections in Tamil Nadu triggered a row with TTD initially denying that the gold belonged to it. Singhal defended the stance taken by the temple body. "It is TTD gold when it reaches the treasury. How do we know how much gold the truck was carrying and what was its transportation route," he asked. On criticism for transportation the gold in the midst of elections, he dismissed this as coincidence. He said the maturity date was known when 1,311 kg gold was deposited with PNB in 2016. He said TTD had written a letter to PNB on March 27 that gold deposit will be reaching maturity on April 18 and asked it to deliver the gold at treasury along with the interest (70 kg gold). He said under the gold deposit gold scheme, the banks are paid one per cent commission and 1.5 per cent handling charges which includes gold purity testing, transportation, storage and other costs. Andhra Pradesh Chief Secretary L.V. Subrahmanyam on Sunday ordered an inquiry in the wake of gold seizure. He asked Special Chief Secretary, Revenue, Manmohan Singh, to find out the lapses, if any, on the part of PNB and TTD and submit a report on or before April 23. The inquiry officer was asked to see if there were written instructions issued by the Executive Officer, TTD, and what was the role of the TTD vigilance wing. The officer will also report on what special care and monitoring the vigilance wing of TTD has to take. --IANS ms/mr (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) They are top Bhojpuri stars who have a huge fan following in eastern Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. As they step into the hotbed of caste in eastern Uttar Pradesh, they are drawing huge crowds - crowds that dance to their songs, ask them to repeat one-liners from their films and jostle for selfies. But will these crowds translate into votes for Ravi Kishan and Dinesh Lal Yadav 'Nirahua'? The actors, aspiring to be politicians, are sceptical themselves. Both the actors are seeking votes in the name of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in their constituencies. "This election is for Modiji. It is not for a candidate. I am seeking votes so that Modiji can get another term. As a candidate I am not that important," says Dinesh Lal Yadav 'Nirahua' who is contesting against Samajwadi Party President Akhilesh Yadav. Asked about his heavyweight opponent, Nirahua counters: "I tell people that I respect Akhileshji - he gave me a Yash Bharti award but we have to think about the nation and for that Narendra Modi is the best option." In Azamgarh, which has four lakh Yadav, three lakh Muslim and around 2.75 lakh Dalit voters, people are enjoying Nirahua's presence. "I go to each of Nirahua's meetings because he sings very well and I am his fan but when it comes to voting, I will go with Akhilesh Yadav because he is the 'bigger' Yadav," said Ramesh Yadav, a small-time shopkeeper. The local BJP workers are happy because the Azamgarh battle has grabbed the media spotlight. "We are happy because the profile of the election has been raised," said one of them. At the SP-BSP joint rally on Tuesday, BSP President Mayawati told her voters to vote for Akhilesh Yadav as if she was contesting the seat. This will obviously ensure Dalit voters for the SP President. Ravi Kishan, on the other hand, is contesting form Gorakhpur with 'Modiji ka naam aur Baba (Yogi Adityanath) ka aashirwaad'. "I have the name of Modi and the blessings of Yogi - this is enough for me to win the election," says Ravi Kishan rather confidently. Gorakhpur, held by Yogi Adityanath for five consecutive terms, is one of the most prestigious seats for the BJP in these elections. The prestige of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath is directly linked to this seat, more so because the BJP had lost the seat to the Samajwadi Party in last year's by-elections. The Chief Minister has spent two days in Gorakhpur, trying to muster support for Ravi Kishan. The caste arithmetic that points to a sharp Thakur-Brahmin divide in the region (and was one of the reasons for BJP's defeat last year) is working against the actor who is a Brahmin while Yogi is a Thakur. The Samajwadi Party has fielded Ram Bhual Nishad whose Nishad community in Gorakhpur is over 3.5 lakh strong. The Congress has fielded Madhusudan Tiwari who will cut into Brahmin votes. "Ravi Kishan is not being taken seriously. People come to see him, hear him recite dialogues and take selfies. He had contested the Jaunpur seat in 2014 and ended up with merely 4.5 per cent votes," says Tishu Kumar, a computer engineer. However, the presence of these two Bhojpuri stars in the polls has created a new market for their songs and films in eastern Uttar Pradesh. Azamgarh goes to polls on May 12 while Gorakhpur will vote on May 19. --IANS amita/mr (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) US President Donald Trump on Wednesday imposed sanctions on Iran's iron, steel, aluminum and copper sectors amid escalating tensions between Washington and Tehran. The White House said those industries account for 10 per cent of Iranian exports, the Efe news reported. "Today, I am signing an executive order to impose sanctions with respect to Iran's iron, steel, aluminum and copper sectors, the regime's largest non-petroleum-related sources of export revenue," Trump said in a statement. "Today's action targets Iran's revenue from the export of industrial metals - 10 percent of its export economy - and puts other nations on notice that allowing Iranian steel and other metals into your ports will no longer be tolerated," he added. Trump, who indicated a willingness to meet with Iranian authorities, said in the executive order that Tehran could use proceeds from the sale of metals to "provide funding and support for the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, terrorist groups and networks, campaigns of regional aggression and military expansion." He also recalled that the US is determined to "deny Iran all paths to both a nuclear weapon and intercontinental ballistic missiles." The new sanctions come hours after the Iranian government announced that it is suspending some of its commitments under the landmark 2015 nuclear deal. Iran, Russia, China, France, the United Kingdom and Germany remain parties to the pact, which the US abandoned in May 2018. In his statement, Trump defended the decision he made one year ago. "Under the Iran nuclear deal, Iran was free to engage in and sponsor terrorist networks, develop its missile force (and) foment regional conflicts ... all while maintaining a robust nuclear infrastructure." A year later, "the Iranian regime is struggling to fund its campaign of violent terror, as its economy heads into an unprecedented depression," Trump said. The US is "successfully imposing the most powerful maximum pressure campaign ever witnessed, which today's action will further strengthen." Trump also warned that Iran "can expect further actions unless it fundamentally alters its conduct," recalling that the US has "put forward 12 conditions that offer the basis of a comprehensive agreement" with the Islamic Republic. "I look forward to someday meeting with the leaders of Iran in order to work out an agreement and, very importantly, taking steps to give Iran the future it deserves," the statement said. Tensions between the US and Iran have grown since April, when Washington opted to further squeeze Tehran by ending sanctions waivers granted to eight countries that import Iranian oil. On Sunday, the White House said it was deploying an aircraft carrier and bomber task force to the Middle East in response to what the Pentagon described the following day as "indications of heightened Iranian readiness to conduct offensive operations against the US forces and our interests." --IANS rs (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A scheme costing $260 million to urgently remove unsafe and dangerous cladding from high-rise apartment blocks in England was announced on Thursday by Prime Minister Theresa May. The work, needed after the June 2017 Grenfell Tower tragedy in London, will be carried out on nearly 170 privately-owned tower blocks where owners have failed to remove the cladding, said government agency Homes England. Seventy two people died when a fire destroyed Grenfell Tower in west London in June 2017. It was one of the UK's worst modern disasters as it left the 24-storey block in North Kensington a charred ruin. A public inquiry into the fire heard evidence to support the theory that the highly combustible material in the cladding was the primary cause of the fire's spread. Following the Grenfell Tower fire, the government identified 176 private high-rise residential buildings with aluminium composite material (ACM) cladding - the same type used on Grenfell Tower. Latest government figures show that 166 private residential buildings out of the 176 are yet to start work on removing and replacing it, the BBC reported. The Homes England agency said the government has stepped in to speed up vital cladding replacement by fully funding the work, eliminating excuses used by some building owners. "We've seen a number of private building owners doing the right thing and taking responsibility, but unfortunately too many are continuing to pass on the costs of removal and replacement to leaseholders," said the Prime Minister. "Today I can confirm we will now be fully funding the replacement of cladding on high-rise private residential buildings so residents can feel confident they are secure in their homes." Building owners will now have three months to access the new fund before the government decides what further action can be taken against owners who fail to remediate their buildings. As a condition of funding, the government says it will require building owners to take steps to recover the costs of the work from those responsible for the presence of the unsafe cladding. --IANS soni/bg (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The UK broadcasting regulator has launched a formal probe into an allegation that China Global Television Network (CGTN), the international news channel of the state-run China Central Television (CCTV), aired a confession forced from a British private investigator while imprisoned in Beijing. Ofcom said on Wednesday that it would investigate whether CGTN, which was launched as CCTV's new international brand in 2016, had broken the UK broadcasting code, the Guardian reported. In the UK, CGTN airs on platforms including Sky and Freesat. If found in breach of the code, Ofcom has the power to deliver sanctions ranging from on-air apologies to substantial fines and, in the most serious cases, revoking UK broadcast licences. The broadcasting regulator has moved to launch an official probe after assessing a fairness and privacy complaint filed by Peter Humphrey last November. "We have decided to investigate a fairness and privacy complaint about news programmes broadcast on CCTV News," said a spokeswoman for Ofcom. "If we find our rules have been broken, we will take the appropriate action." Humphrey, who worked as a journalist in the 1980s and 90s and was once a fellow at Harvard University, and his American wife, Yu Yingzeng, were imprisoned in China in 2013 on charges of illegally trading in personal information while consulting for pharmaceutical company GlaxoSmithKline (GSK). They subsequently appeared on Chinese state television, and internationally including on its English-language channel broadcast in Britain, making a public confession. The couple were deported from China in June 2015 after their jail terms were reduced. Ofcom has received four formal complaints about CCTV allegedly airing forced confessions. The regulator has earlier imposed sanctions on broadcasters in cases of forced confessions, the Guardain said. Last year, it fined the Saudi-owned news channel Al Arabiya $156,090 for broadcasting "confessions" by an imprisoned opposition leader without making it clear he had been tortured. In 2011, Press TV, the Iranian state broadcaster's English-language outlet, was fined $130,080 after the channel aired an interview with Maziar Bahari, an imprisoned Newsweek journalist, that had been conducted under duress. A year later, Ofcom revoked Press TV's right to air in the UK because its practice of running editorial oversight from Tehran breached broadcasting licence rules. --IANS ksk (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Tripoli, May 8 (IANS/AKI) The United Nations mission in Libya said on Wednesday it is "deeply concerned" at a spike in abductions, disappearances and arbitrary arrests of activists and reporters in the war-torn country since fighting broke out in the capital, Tripoli, in early April. Taking hostages during a conflict is a violation of international humanitarian law and may amount to a war crime, Unsmil said in a statement that urged all sides the conflict to immediately release anyone arbitrarily arrested and detained. "The Mission reminds all parties to the conflict that they must adhere to human rights and rule of law obligations. "All authorities must operate under the rule of law and ensure that arrests and detention fully comply with due process, the statement said. At least seven officials and employees were arbitrarily detained or kidnapped in the east and in the west of the country, the statement said, noting the cases signal a deterioration of the rule of law in Libya. "The fate of all these victims remains unknown, and there may be others who have disappeared under similar circumstances," said the statement. Unsmil said journalists also continue to face increasing threats, intimidation and violence, often in connection with reporting on the warfare in Tripoli that began on April 5 when eastern renegade commander Khalifa Haftar's self-styled Libyan National Army entered the capital. The fate of the two journalists working for the Doha-based Libya Al-Ahrar TV satellite channel who were abducted on May 2 remains unknown, according to the statement. "Unsmil calls for their immediate unconditional release and safe return to their families," the statement said. --IANS/AKI vd (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Guaido's deputy has been detained by the country's intelligence services in a dramatic operation in eastern Caracas. The arrest of Edgar Zambrano, Vice President of the National Assembly, took place on Wednesday night. He is the first senior opposition official taken into custody by the socialist government in retaliation for a failed military uprising last week aimed at ousting embattled President Nicolas Maduro. Zambrano live-tweeted the detention, saying his van was surrounded by forces from Venezuela's Bolivarian Intelligence Service (Sebin). When he refused to exit, Zambrano said, his vehicle was forcibly towed to the infamous Helicoide prison, a notorious holding area for political prisoners. The move came after Zambrano became one of 10 opposition officials charged with treason, conspiracy and rebellion by the pro-Maduro Supreme Court in connection to the April 30 plot. So far, the leader of the uprising -- Guaido, who has been recognized as "interim President" of Venezuela by over 50 countries, including the US, the UK and most in Latin America -- has not been charged. Guaido says he remains a free man because the government of Maduro is "too afraid" of the consequences of arresting him. "Because they're scared. Those that try to spread or generate a perception of control are the ones that don't have it," he told CNN. Maduro, on the other hand, has the backing of Russia, China and the leaders of Venezuela's military. Zambrano's detention drew swift condemnation from the US. It threatened unspecified "consequences" if the leader was not released. "The arbitrary detention of @AsambleaVE First VP Edgar Zambrano by Maduro's oppressive security forces in Venezuela is illegal and inexcusable," read a tweet issued by Kimberly Breier of the US Embassy in Caracas. Though the US administration appears to be conflicted over using force to drive Maduro out, it has not ruled out a military option. Through stripped of its power in 2017, the opposition-controlled National Assembly is widely recognized internationally as the only democratic institution left in Venezuela, making Zambrano the second-highest opposition figure in rank after Guaido, who is the body's President. Guaido's Chief of Staff, Roberto Marrero, has been in prison since March 21, when his house was raided before dawn by armed intelligence forces. In the past week, the socialist government detained 82 street protesters, according to Foro Penal -- a non-profit legal group that defends and denounces political imprisonments. Three hundred people have been injured at protests, including 40 that have been struck by bullets, and four killed. --IANS soni/ (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A 22-year-old woman lost her eyesight on Thursday after an acid attack on her in Greater Noida for which she blamed her two brothers, police said. The victim was rescued by police from G.T. Road near the Loharali toll plaza, minutes after the horrific attack, a police officer said. A resident of Gulavati village, she is now admitted to Safdarjung Hospital in Delhi with 50 per cent burns. Police quoted doctors as saying that she had lost sight in both eyes by the time she was rushed to the hospital. Being falling unconscious, the woman named her brothers as the attackers and said they had also tried to kill her earlier. No arrest has been made so far. --IANS rag/mr/vd (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Calling for a vote against the Akalis who he said resorted to sacrilege to polarise communities, Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh on Thursday made an emotional appeal to not let Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP destroy the country's biggest strength -- its unity. Addressing an election rally here in support of Congress candidate from Sangrur Kewal Singh Dhillon, he said this land of martyrs was an inspiration for those who had sacrificed themselves for an India that belongs to all religions and communities. Vowing not to spare the Badals or anyone involved in trying to divide the people of Punjab through desecration of the holy scriptures of various religions, the Chief Minister said they would have to pay for their sins, including the firing on people protesting against sacrilege cases. Paying his tributes to Shaheed Udham Singh, whose picture he was presented, Amarinder Singh said the freedom fighter's selfless sacrifice remains an inspiration for Indians even today. He recalled the incident of Udham Singh keeping a bottle of blood-soaked Jallianwala Bagh soil next to his pillow, for years, out of sheer grief at the tragic killings of innocent Indians. Those people were of a different mettle, he said, exhorting people to ensure that the India of their dreams was not destroyed by communal forces. The nation was passing through difficult times and these Lok Sabha elections would decide its future by choosing between those engaged in communalising and those desirous of building a secular India, said the Chief Minister. Modi and his men are breaking the strength of the nation and usurping the achievements of the armed forces as their own for furthering their political interests, he said, adding that as an Army officer he served Indian forces and not Modi's forces. Attacking the Akali candidate from Sangrur Parminder Singh Dhindsa, Amarinder Singh blamed the former Punjab Finance Minister for the fiscal crisis faced by the state and the additional debt burden of Rs 31,000 crore he had put on the coming generations. He said his government would complete the farm debt waiver process for the 10.25 lakh small and marginal farmers as promised. "If we can do it despite the fiscal crisis in Punjab, why could Parkash Singh Badal not do it?" he asked. However, he reiterated that debt relief was only a temporary measure and implementation of the M.S. Swaminathan Commission report was the only solution to end the woes of the farmers in the country. The promise of smartphones to aid youths in education is on way to being fulfilled, Amarinder Singh said, adding that the first batch of such phones would be distributed soon after the elections. --IANS vg/mag/mr (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) As the European Parliament elections draw closer, most polls predict a strong showing by parties that declare themselves Eurosceptic to varying degrees. But their likely success represents an unsurprising backlash against recent European integration, rather than opposition to the itself. After all, Eurosceptic or Euro-hostile parties are nothing new. They also had a large presence in the first directly elected European Parliament back in 1979, when the EU was known as the European Economic Community (EEC) or the Common Market and consisted of only nine member states. In addition to being far smaller than todays 28-member EU, the EEC did much less. Even calling it a common market now seems an exaggeration, because member states had agreed only on a customs union with a common external tariff and external trade policy. Within the EEC, there were still customs checks on goods and passport controls, and many member states prohibited capital exports. It is testimony to the strides that European integration has made since then that one of the options for a post- United Kingdom is to remain in the EUs customs union. Fifty years ago, this would have been equivalent to full membership. Back in 1979, the strongest Eurosceptic parties were on the left. They opposed the Common Market because they disliked market forces in general. More specifically, they believed that further European integration would favour capitalists by lowering the trade barriers that had been erected to protect workers. In hindsight, the lefts opposition to the Common Market seems premature, given that member states trade, although increasing, then accounted for a much smaller proportion of national income. At the time, the ratio of exports to GDP was below 20 per cent for most of the larger EEC members, compared to nearly 50 per cent today. But the trend toward more economic integration was already clear, and West European communists and hardline socialists were fundamentally opposed to it. The current rise of Eurosceptic parties, meanwhile, comes at a time when the EU is more popular than ever, according to polls. This is mainly because the flows of asylum seekers have been brought under control, and because Europes economy is doing better than it has for a long time, with unemployment down to the lowest level this century. As a result, even the most Eurosceptic politicians have backpedaled on their opposition to Brussels. And in Sweden, France, and Italy, the main Eurosceptic parties have abandoned their demands to leave the euro or the EU. We should therefore not regard Eurosceptic parties current strength as reflecting widespread dissatisfaction with what the EU is doing, or with the state of the European economy. Rather, it represents a backlash against the recent pace of European integration. Europes various crises over the past decade have led to a huge expansion of the EUs powers, and it would have been surprising had national politicians not objected to such a large transfer of sovereignty. Similarly, the United States is the result of a long process of integration, marked by a constant debate about the extent of states rights and the remit of the federal government. The US Federal Reserve, for example, was established only after more than a century of frequent banking crises. Political forces that question the current speed of European integration are part of a healthy democratic process. In fact, one could even argue that the Eurosceptic parties are more honest than their mainstream counterparts. After all, despite their pro-European rhetoric, once mainstream parties come to power at the national level, they, too, are extremely reluctant to transfer any sovereignty to EU institutions. The real test will come after this months elections, when the Eurosceptic parties will have to articulate an alternative coherent vision of Europe and the EUs role in it. Such a vision is unlikely to emerge. The key steps in recent years toward further EU integration including the establishment of the European Stability Mechanism to help financial distressed member states, the EUs banking union, and the European Border and Coast Guard Agency were clearly necessary, because national efforts in these areas had not worked. Tellingly, even staunchly Eurosceptic parties are not calling for these institutions to be abolished. Eurosceptics make vague claims that Europe is not working, and that only they can defend the interests of their national electorates. But in practice, it has been impossible to translate this my country first into coherent policy within the European Parliament not least because most of what the EU does benefit member states. Moreover, Eurosceptic parties find it difficult to forge coalitions. Northern European populists, for example, would like to stop all assistance to the EUs periphery, whereas their Southern European counterparts think they are not getting enough support. It seems that Europeans now love both the EU and populists. Instead of bemoaning this fact, much less viewing it as a threat, pro-Europeans should seize the opportunity to start a necessary debate about the continents future. The writer is Director of the Center for European Policy Studies. Project Syndicate, 2019 This refers to the editorial "More questions on GDP" (May 9). Data pertaining to various segments of the economy are key deciding factors in arriving at the performance of the economy. The data must be reliable but the authorities concerned are not ensuring that it is. It is not an uncommon practice to change crucial data according to the need and requirements of the government in power for ensuring political mileage. The inconsistent official data relating to the economy is negatively impacting the capital market and the inflow or the outflow of external funds. It is also ... Eleven Chinese were among 13 suspects remanded in custody by a Lahore court on Thursday for a probe into a transnational gang allegedly involved in forced prostitution of Pakistani girls and running an organ trade racket. Judicial Magistrate Amir Raza directed the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) officials to complete the probe within two days and produce the suspects in court on May 11. Over 20 Chinese nationals have been arrested from various Pakistani cities for their alleged involvement in arranging fake marriages of Pakistani women and removing their organs and forcing them into prostitution. According to the FIA, the suspected ring involves large sums of money changing hands for the contracting of fake marriages between vulnerable Pakistani women and Chinese men. The women are allegedly trafficked into prostitution in China, the Dawn newspaper reported. A woman from Lahore was married off to a Chinese national after her father was approached by an 'agent' claiming to run a marriage bureau. Three to four days after marrying the woman, Chinese man Chan Yen Ming took her to China, the FIA said, adding that some time later, the woman called her family to tell them that they had been conned. She told her family that Ming was trying to force her into prostitution and had physically abused her upon her refusal, the FIA said in a statement. She also said that some people in China were running a business of luring Pakistani women into China to force them into prostitution, and that the suspects were also running an organ trade racket, the report said, quoting FIA statement. The woman informed the FIA. Using her tip off, it conducted a raid and arrested at least eight Chinese individuals and two Pakistanis, and recovered the eight Chinese and three Pakistani passports. The FIA later arrested three more Chinese nationals who, according to the agency, were connecting potential grooms with local agents, who were responsible for engaging possible victims. The three were arrested in different raids from the surrounding areas of Lahore, the statement said. Separately, Mandi Bahauddin police on Wednesday took four individuals, including a Chinese national, into custody in a similar case. The police arrested them before handing the suspects over to the FIA. The agency has been conducting raids to recover the remaining four women who were allegedly married off to Chinese men. Hundreds of Chinese have come to live in Pakistan in connection with various development work undertaken by the Chinese companies under the China-Pakistan Economin Corridor (CPEC) According to the local media reports, poor Christian girls are lured with money and promises of a 'good life' by the illegal matchmaking centres to marry Chinese men who are either visiting or working in Pakistan. These centres produce fake documents of Chinese men showing them either as Christians or Muslims. Most of the girls reportedly became victims of human trafficking and were forced into prostitution, the reports said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) As many as 15 hospitals have been sealed by the Thane civic body in Maharashtra for flouting fire safety norms, an official has said. The action came after the Bombay High Court last month directed the Thane Municipal Corporation (TMC) to seal all private hospitals and nursing homes operating without a no- objection certificate (NOC) from the fire department. The court issued the directive while hearing plea claiming that according to a survey conducted by the Thane fire department earlier this year, more than 50 per cent of the private hospitals and nursing homes here were ill-equipped to deal with fire incidents. TMC's chief fire officer Sashikant Kale on Wednesday said following the court's directive, they sealed 15 hospitals in the city in the last couple of days. "These hospitals were first issued notices. When they failed to produce the NOC, we had no option but to seal these health care centres while allowing them to shift patients to other hospitals," he said. He said licences of these hospitals were likely to be suspended or cancelled. Following the high court's directive, a four-member committee of civic officials was formed which inspected various hospitals earlier this month and identified 15 of them for flouting fire safety rules, he said. Among the sealed hospitals, five were located in the city's Wagle Estate area, four in Mumbra, and three each in Balkum and Naupada localities, he mentioned. Kale said in April last year, around 200 hospitals in Thane applied for NOC from the fire department. Of these, 188 hospitals were at that time found to have complied with the fire safety regulations and hence, were given the NOC. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) An 18-year-old US national Wednesday pleaded guilty to the charges supporting and recruiting fighters for Pakistan-based terrorist group Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) which carried out the deadly 2008 Mumbai terror attack. Michael Kyle Sewell, from Fort Worth, Texas, was arrested in February, has admitted to encouraging an individual, identified in court documents only as coconspirator 1, to join the LeT. He now faces up to 20 years in federal prison and a fine of up to USD 250,000. The sentencing is scheduled for August 12. According to the guilty plea, Sewell provided the coconspirator, who he spoke to on social media, with contact information for an individual he believed could facilitate the coconspirator's travel to Pakistan to join the LeT. Unbeknownst to Sewell and the coconspirator, the facilitator was an undercover FBI agent. Sewell and the co-conspirator discussed what the co-conspirator should say to the undercover agent who posed as the facilitator, in order to gain the facilitator's trust and be permitted to join the LeT. He also contacted the facilitator to vouch for the co-conspirator's authenticity and told both of them that he would kill the co-conspirator if he turned out to be a spy. The co-conspirator then contacted the facilitator and made arrangements to travel to Pakistan. In February, Sewell was charged by the FBI with using social media to recruit people on behalf of the LeT and send them to Pakistan for terrorist training. "We stay on constant alert for radicals plotting attacks targeting citizens of the United States, here or abroad," said US Attorney Nealy Cox said in a release. "Countering terrorist threats is our highest priority, and we will continue to work to stem the flow of foreign fighters abroad and bring justice to those who attempt to provide material support to foreign terror organizations." It is not clear if Sewell is currently in custody, Fox4 reported. The LeT is a UN and US-designated global terrorist organisation and has carried out several terrorist attacks inside India, including the Mumbai terrorist attacks in 2008 that took the lives of 166 people, including several Americans. In 2013, a US court sentenced David Coleman Headley, an American of Pakistani origin to 35 years in jail for his role in the Mumbai attack. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A Montenegro court on Thursday sentenced 13 people, including two Russian secret service operatives, to up to 15 years in prison after they were convicted of plotting to overthrow the Balkan country's government and prevent it from joining NATO. Chief judge Suzana Mugosa said the two Russians, identified as Eduard Shishmakov and Vladimir Popov, were convicted of "attempted terrorism" and "creating a criminal organisation." The two were tried in absentia. Shishmakov received a 15-year prison term while Popov got 12 years. Two leading ethnic Serb opposition politicians, Andrija Mandic and Milan Knezevic, were sentenced to five years each. The verdict said the group planned to take over parliament on election day on October 16, 2016, assassinate then-Prime Minister Milo Djukanovic and install a pro-Russia, anti-NATO leadership. Montenegro joined NATO in June 2017 as the Western military alliance's 29th member despite strong opposition from Moscow, which considers the small Adriatic country a historic Slavic ally and is opposed to NATO's enlargement. The Kremlin has repeatedly denied involvement in the coup attempt. Montenegro's police thwarted the action after receiving tips from Western spy organizations, authorities said. The Russian pair, said to be members of the Russian military secret service agency GRU, coordinated the attempted coup from neighbouring Serbia, the verdict said. They were allowed by Serbia's pro-Russia authorities to leave for Moscow despite reports that they operated with sophisticated spy equipment. The judge said that the Russians provided at least 200,000 euros for the purchase of rifles and guns. She said two tried to recruit "as many people as possible to come to the protest" and try to "change the electoral will" and "prevent Montenegro from joining NATO." The judge said the two ethnic Serb politicians made several trips to Moscow on the eve of the election where they were believed to get instructions from the GRU operatives. "Each member of the criminal organization had a task and role that had been previously determined and the criminal organisation was ready to implement violence and intimidation," she said. The United States and its allies have accused the GRU of involvement in the 2018 nerve agent attack on a Russian ex-spy in Britain, hacking the 2016 US presidential campaign and disrupting anti-doping efforts in world sports. Russian authorities have rejected the accusations, calling them part of a Western smear campaign. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Five people, including a woman, were arrested in Uttar Pradesh's Hapur district for alleged bovine slaughter, police said Thursday. Acting on a tip-off, the police conducted a raid in a jungle near a village in Garhmukteshwar area and found bovine carcasses, Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP) Ram Mohan Singh said. Five people, including a woman, have been arrested and a case has been registered, the police said. Police are searching for 15 people who have escaped. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) With Prime Minister Narendra Modi repeatedly targeting Rajiv Gandhi in his campaign speeches, senior Congress leader Ahmed Patel on Thursday said abusing a martyred Prime Minister is the sign of "ultimate cowardice". Patel's counter attack came a day after Modi accused the Gandhi family of using warship INS Viraat as its "personal taxi" for a holiday when Rajiv Gandhi was at the helm. "Rajiv ji lost his life due to their hatred and is no longer here amongst us to answer the baseless allegations and abuses which are being unleashed on him. Abusing a martyred Prime Minister is the sign of ultimate cowardice.," Patel tweeted. "But who is responsible for his assassination? The BJP backed V P Singh govt refused to provide him with additional security and left him with one PSO despite credible intelligence inputs and repeated requests," he alleged. Congress leaders, including its president Rahul Gandhi and general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, have hit out at Modi for his barb at their father, who was India's prime minister between 1984-89. Earlier, Modi had dubbed Rajiv Gandhi as "bhrashtachari no 1" (corrupt no 1), in a reference to the Bofors scam. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Allahabad High Court Thursday stayed the arrest of Bollywood producers Sameer Dixit and Jatish Varma in a cheating and cheque bounce case related to a movie titled 'Tadka'. The bench comprising Justice Vipin Sinha and Justice Ifaqat Ali Khan on a petition filed by Sameer Dixit and Jatish Varma stayed their arrest till submission of final report, on the condition that the petitioners will cooperate in investigation of the case. One Ranvijay Singh, the financier of the movie, had lodged an FIR at Cantonment Police Station, Varanasi, against producers of the movie alleging that they had not paid back the money which he had given to them as a financier. The advocate appearing for petitioners argued that as per agreement, the producers of the movie had made partial payment and the remaining amount was to be paid after the release of the movie. However, since the release of the movie was stayed by an order of the Bombay High Court, the producer duo are not bound to make further payments till the release of the movie, he told the court. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces took credit for defeating the Islamic State group in its last stronghold in eastern Syria, celebrating the victory in front of throngs of journalists at a ceremony in March following a bloody four-year war. But the Kurdish-led force now faces protests by local Arab tribesmen demanding better services, jobs and a bigger role in decision-making in the predominantly Arab, oil-rich and fertile region. Demonstrations in more than a dozen villages in the eastern province of Deir el-Zour are limited for now, but they present a growing challenge to the U.S. and its local partners at a time when President Donald Trump plans to reduce America's military presence in Syria. An SDF official, who spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorised to speak to the media, said the protesters are a small percentage of Deir el-Zour residents. But the demonstration benefit the Syrian government, its Iranian backers and Turkey, and undermine "our victory against Daesh," he said, using an Arabic acronym for IS. Several rounds of talks between the SDF and local officials have so far failed to make progress, leading to concerns the protests could transform into an all-out uprising against the predominantly Kurdish force. The protests come as the force, founded in 2015 to fight IS and armed by the US, faces multiple challenges. IS sleeper cells have intensified their attacks in areas controlled by the SDF in recent weeks. Syrian President Bashar Assad's troops, based along the west bank of the Euphrates River that cuts through Deir el-Zour, have vowed to reassert control over Kurdish-held areas in northern Syria. And Turkey, which considers the force to be a terrorist organization, has also set its sights on the region. The SDF controls nearly a third of Syria, but unlike the provinces of Raqqa and Hassakeh in the north that have large Kurdish populations, Deir el-Zour in the east is almost purely Arab, leading to ethnic tensions between the local population and the Kurdish force. Two years after entering the province in their push against IS, the SDF appears to have failed to win the hearts and minds of the residents in the region, which suffers from a lack of services, rising crime, fuel shortages and anger over what they see as growing Kurdish influence. Although the SDF is a mixed force consisting of Kurds, Arabs and Christian fighters, its backbone is the Kurdish People's Protection Units, or YPG. Some SDF officials say that what's happening in eastern Syria are not protests, but riots backed by Assad's government with the aim of hurting the SDF and its American backers. SDF officials warn that if the protests continue, it will affect the search for IS sleeper cells in the region. For nearly two weeks, residents in more than a dozen towns and villages in Deir el-Zour have been rallying, closing major roads with burning tires to prevent SDF tanker trucks from taking crude to Kurdish-held areas in the country's north. Areas liberated from the IS suffer fuel shortages and IS sleeper cells are launching a guerrilla campaign to avenge their defeat two months ago when the SDF captured the village of Baghouz, marking the end of the extremists' self-declared caliphate. Some of the protesters believe that Kurdish fighters sell oil to Assad's loyalists amid severe fuel shortages in government-held parts of the country, aggravated by U.S. sanctions on Syria and its main backer, Iran. Since SDF began capturing parts of Deir el-Zour in 2017, residents have expressed anger at what they say has been forced recruitment of Arab residents into the SDF, as well as the detention of many on suspicion of links to IS. "People are fed up with the SDF," said Omar Abu Laila, a Europe-based activist from Deir el-Zour who runs a group that monitors developments in the province. "They are robbing the wealth of the people in the region." The protests took a turn for the worse on April 24, when according to Deir el-Zour activists, the U.S.-led coalition and SDF fighters stormed a house in the village of Daman and killed six people, including two women and a child. They said the raid targeted a man called Farhan al-Sarhan, whom the SDF says is linked to IS, a charge that activists deny. A day later, protests spread quickly to nearby villages and towns including Tayyaneh, Haseen, Mheimda, Husan, Shannan and Shheil. "No to Kurdish occupation," read one banner carried by protesters, according to images posted on social media. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) giant on Thursday reported around 66 per cent fall in its net income to $0.4 billion for the quarter ended March 31, 2019. The world's largest steelmaker had posted a net income of $1.2 billion in the year-ago quarter, the company said in a statement. The company reported a "net income attributable to equity holders of the parent" of $0.4 billion in the first quarter. " recorded a net income for quarter 1, 2019 of $0.4 billion...as compared to a net income for Quarter 4, 2018 of $1.2 billion, and a net income for Q1 2018 of $1.2 billion," the company said. The world's leading integrated and company follows January -December as fiscal year. "Our first results reflect the challenging operating environment the industry has faced recent months. Profitability has been impacted by lower pricing due to weaker economic activity and continued global overcapacity, as well as rising raw material costs as a result of supply-side developments in Brazil," Chairman and CEO Lakshmi N Mittal said. The company continue to face a challenge from high levels of imports, particularly in Europe, where safeguard measures introduced by the have not been fully effective, he added. Pursuant to Essar Steel India Limited's (ESIL) corporate insolvency process, ArcelorMittal said the company's resolution plan was conditionally approved by (NCLT) on March 8, 2019. "There have been several appeals from, among others, the Committee of Creditors and ESIL creditors to the National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT) over how the CoC has decided to distribute the Rs 42,000-crore upfront payment from the company's resolution Plan and how such payment should be distributed among the creditors of ESIL. " the company said. On April 12, 2019 the stayed the disbursement of funds to creditors, pending the final outcome of the NCLAT hearing, which is ongoing," the company said. ArcelorMittal is the world's leading steel and company with presence in 60 countries and an industrial footprint in 18 countries. The Balakot air strikes on the Jaish-e-Muhammed terror training camp in Pakistan was the "biggest" anti-terrorist operation in the history of India, Union Home minister Rajnath Singh said in an election rally in south Delhi on Thursday. The senior BJP leader also slammed the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government in Delhi alleging that it did not fulfil its promises made to the people after coming to power in 2015. Singh lambasted the opposition parties for seeking to know the exact number of terrorists killed in the Indian Air Force strikes, days after the Pulwama attack in south Kashmir which claimed the loves of 40 CRPF personnel. "They (opposition parties) say the air force should have counted the bodies. Being the home minister and having solid intelligence input, I can say with full conviction that the Balakot air strikes was the biggest anti-terrorist operation in the history of India," Singh claimed. He also asserted the air strikes was the biggest anti-terror operation in the world. India under Prime Minister Narendra Modi has stopped sending dossiers to Pakistan after terror attacks and now responds directly. "The days of sending dossiers are gone, now we will ensure action against the terrorists," he told the rally in Badarpur area. Citing a report by an Italian journalist, he said 170 terrorists were killed in Balakot while several others were admitted to the local hospitals for treatment. Seeking vote for the Bharatiya Janata Party candidate from South Delhi, Ramesh Bidhuri, Singh said his victory will ensure Modi again becomes Prime Minister of the country. Hitting out at the ruling AAP in Delhi, he said: "There would be no crisis of water, electricity, schools and colleges, if it (AAP) had fulfilled its promises made to the people before coming to power." "Delhi will develop only after the AAP is finished in the next Assembly elections in the national capital," Singh said. He also slammed the Congress for its poll promise to scrap the sedition law, saying the BJP will strengthen it after coming back to power at the Centre. The image of India has been strengthened by the Modi government and the country is on the path of becoming 'dhanwan and Balwan' (rich and strong) nation, Singh said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) From everyday issues of electricity and water to the Balakot strikes, there are different development strokes for different folk in the national capital, the definition of vikas' changing in accordance with needs and necessities but also political loyalties. Across the city, spread across seven Lok Sabha constituencies, the concept of development is fluid, shifting form and shape to mean one thing for the ragpicker getting ready to go to Uttar Pradesh to vote for Prime Minister and quite another for the affluent MNC employee. The city, which votes on May 12, interprets the BJP government's mantra of Sabka saath, sabka vikas' in ways as diverse as its 19 million people. For Srikishun, who works as a ragpicker in Delhi's walled city, life may be tough but he has saved money to travel to Gorakhpur in Uttar Pradesh in time to vote on May 19, the last round of the seven-phase Lok Sabha elections. The 28-year-old said there has been no development for the poor in the last five years but a lot of good has happened for the country. The country is getting famous but, on the other hand, unemployment is getting out of hand, he said with a wry smile. Srikishun knows actor-turned-MP Ravi Kishan is the BJP's candidate in Gorakhpur but that is of little consequence he said he is going all the way to vote for Modi. Whatever he has done in Pakistan and all the other things have made me very happy, he said. At the other end of the economic and political -- spectrum is Harpreet Singh, an MNC employee who lives in Delhi but works in Gurgaon. In terms of infrastructure and schools, the Delhi government has done a swell job but the BJP in the Centre has been a massive failure, he said. Be it development, economy or harmony, the BJP has disappointed us. Now everyone is screaming themselves hoarse in big debates over religion. But nobody knows anything about what's happening in the sectors of education and economy and they also have no willingness to know about it. In 2014, I was one of those who chanted Modi's name. But I've realised I was a fool at that time, 34-year-old Singh said. Long-time Delhi resident Ramsukh Tiwari, who will be travelling to Ghoda Chowk in Haryana to vote on May 12, has a long checklist of what constitutes development. For the 68-year-old, who can be found exchanging old and soiled notes in Chandni Chowk, development is a catch all term including issues such as GST, ease of opening bank accounts, helping farmers as well as national security subjects like Doklam and the Balakot air strike. Development is already taking place and will continue to happen. Till date, no government has paid attention to the needs of the farmers. Modi has done that. I don't want development for me, I want development for everybody, he said. Listening on, 50-year-old Rajni eagerly jumped into the conversation and said Modi doesn't discriminate on the grounds of religion or caste. Asked what development meant for her, Rajni, who refused to give her full name, responded with a series of counter questions. Look at the number of terrorists that were killed in Balakot. Has anyone done anything like that ever before? Modi travelled across the country to meet people of every state, has anyone done that? So many things have happened in the last five years, I can't remember what all he has done for us. All I know is that he put in a lot of thought about the country and hasn't thought about himself at all, said Rajni, who will vote from North East Delhi. Kalavati, a tailor in a slum cluster in Dwarka who lives with her husband and five children, backs Delhi's ruling Aam Aadmi Party. Development in the last few years has happened because of the Kejriwal-led party, she said. Be it electricity, water shortage or education, Kejriwal has done a lot. I don't know what the BJP did. They say they have done this and that, but the benefits didn't reach us, the 34-year-old said. ALSO READ: Nationalism breathes easy in this village of soldiers in Gurgaon district Praising the BJP for bringing in GST, Ravi Kumar, a shop owner in the walled city, said implementation of the law spells development for him. His lighting shop sits proudly next to the oldest branch of the State Bank of India. It was rechristened Make in India after the Union Commerce ministry launched the scheme to promote domestic products in September 2014. I changed the name three-four years ago. Some people call me a Modi supporter. But I'm not his supporter. The only reason I changed the name is as all the products available in the shop is 'Make in India', the 54-year-old said. GST, he said, made things very easy for him. I applied for a GST number using the new name and I got it. I thought the new name sounded good. It is both promoting the government and me. After all, we ourselves are the government. Kumar is, however, yet to make up his mind on whether he will vote at all on Sunday. East Delhi voter Nishat Anjum said she doesn't know much about which political party promised development but the education of her three school-going children is paramount for her. The 40-year-old homemaker, who has studied till Class 10, got her kids transferred to a government school. We want them to study in good schools. They were earlier studying in private schools, we got them shifted to a nearby government school. If they will study in good government schools, they can get admission anywhere else in the future, Anjum said. E-rickshaw driver Kalua, who lives in Vikaspuri, said Kejriwal has delivered on the promises of electricity and water. These are the most important needs for poor people like us. Lots of e-rickshaw drivers got subsidy. I haven't got it yet, but a lot of my friends have. Some of them even got it twice, he said. Asked if the Centre had fulfilled the agenda of development, the 50-year-old said the BJP government is more into 'dadagiri' (coercion). They are useless, I don't even want to talk about them. Even the was better than them. They were here for so many years, but they did not get into spreading fear and hatred, he said. A Saudi Arabia-born Bangladeshi, who returned to the country after fighting for the Islamic State (IS) in Syria, has been arrested by the counter-terrorism police for alleged plans to establish a caliphate in the Muslim-majority country. Born in Saudi Arabia to a Bangladeshi father and a Pakistani mother, 33-year-old Motaj Abdul Majid Kafiluddin Bepari was arrested by Dhaka Metropolitan Police's (DMP) Counter-Terrorism and Transnational Crime (CTTC) unit near a mosque in Dhaka's Uttara neighbourhood on May 5, the Dhaka Tribune reported. According to the first information report (FIR) of the case recorded under Anti-Terrorism Act with Uttara (West) police station, Motaj and five or six unnamed people were accused for planning sabotage with different militant organisations to establish caliphate by displacing the government. Dhaka launched a major crackdown against extremists following an attack by local outfit New Jamaat-ul Mujahideen Bangladesh (JMB) on a cafe in the capital in 2016 that killed 22 people, including an Indian and 17 other foreigners. Confirming the arrest on Wednesday, CTTC Deputy Commissioner Mohibul Islam Khan said interrogation is underway to know his motive. Police also seized a passport, a Saudi Arabian ID card, Saudi driving licence, an iPhone, and Bangla translations of several essays on caliphate in Bangladesh from Motaj's possession, the daily reported. Motaj took a Bangladeshi passport in 2014 from the Bangladesh embassy in Saudi Arabia and then went to Turkey in 2016 using it, the FIR stated. He was influenced by the IS ideology and was trying to get in touch with the terror group, after which he attempted to enter into Syria several times, but failed. Later in 2017, he tried to enter Syria via Egypt and Turkey from Saudi Arabia, but failed again. Finally in 2018, Motaj succeeded, but it was too late, as the IS regime had been ousted from Syria by then. After this, he fled to Turkey where his plan was to flee to any European country via Greece. But as Turkish police began a drive against terrorists, Motaj decided to return to Bangladesh and arrived in Dhaka. According to the case files, police was aware of his entry and was tracking his movements to arrest him. Citing findings from the primary inquiry, the FIR said Motaj believed in the ideology of banned militant outfit New JMB. No police official agreed to publicly comment on Motaj's matter. However, CTTC chief and Additional Commissioner Monirul Islam recently said Bangladeshis returning home after joining IS would face legal action. He also said a section of youths have been going to join IS since late 2014. They suspect some aspiring militants were arrested and some were killed. But he acknowledged the lack of statistics regarding the matter. If they want to return home now, they have no alternative but to come by air. They need passports. But people who left the country in 2014 no longer have valid passports. If anybody wants to return, they will have to apply for a travel pass, Monirul said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Mounting a blistering attack on the opposition, Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged the voters on Thursday not to vote for a "khichdi" (coalition) government. "Be wary of a 'khichdi' government," he told an election rally here. Stating that voting for the opposition alliance was fraught with danger, the prime minister said, "The 'mahagathbandhan' can only lead to anarchy and instability and make the country insecure." Azamgarh had become synonymous with terrorism, Modi said, adding that however, the scenario had changed since 2014, when the BJP-led government was formed at the Centre. "Earlier, all terror activities had links to Azamagarh. But what happened after 2014 is for all of you to see," he said. "How were bomb blasts brought under control in all the cities after 2014? How have terror activities been restricted only to Jammu and Kashmir now? It is because our government prioritised national interest. We entered Pakistan and attacked terrorists," he said amid an applause from the audience. The prime minister added that people had already seen how "gathbandhan" governments were steeped in corruption in the past and cited the 2G scam among others. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Karnataka BJP leaders Thursday slammed ruling Congress-JD(S) coordination committee Chief Siddaramaaih for his Chief Ministerial ambitions and accused him of fixing a "time bomb" to the coalition governmentthat would explode after Lok Sabha poll results on May 23. They alleged that Siddaramaiah was "daydreaming" about becoming Chief Minister once again. "I'm saying this on behalf of the party (BJP), we will not make any attempts to bring this government down. We are not preparing any sketch for it," former deputy chief minister R Ashoka told reporters in Bidar. Ashoka claimed that Siddaramaiah has a grudge against the JD(S)leadership for expelling him from the party, and is now unableto digest Kumaraswamy and Deve Gowda enjoying power. "He (Siddaramaiah) is taking revenge in Mandya (whereKumaraswamy's son Nikhil is candidate), and if any one has fixed a time bomb or atom bomb to this government after May 23 results, it is Siddaramiah and team," he said. For the last couple of days, several Congress leaders, including ministers in the Kumaraswamy government, have pitched for Siddaramaiah becoming the CM again. Siddaramaiah on Wednesday clarified that a few Congress leaders are pitching for making him Chief Minister out of "affection", and ruled out the possibility of any change in the top post held by Kumaraswamy. A stung JD(S) had termed the demand as "unreasonable" and ruled out any possibility of Siddaramaiah becoming Chief Minister immediately. Kumaraswamy also reportedly expressed his displeasureabout the development to Congress leaders, who met him Wednesdayevening, and asked them to restrain party leaders frompublicly making statements on the post of Chief Minister as it was embarrassing the government and him. Another former deputychief minister and senior BJP leader K S Eshwarappa said Thursday that Siddaramaiah was "daydreaming" about the Chief Minister's Chair. "He(Siddaramaiah) is making four to five people to publicly state that Siddaramaiah has to be come Chief Minister once again," Eshwarappa said. Talks about Siddaramaiah as chief minister once again, have emerged amid reports that the Congress in Karnataka was preparing for assembly polls after the Lok Sabha election results, which party leaders have rubbished. However, there are discussions within political circles that any adverse results for the coalition in the LokSabha polls, which they fought in alliance, would have its implications on the Kumaraswamy-led government. Despite, KPCC chief Dinesh Gundu Rao asking Congress men not to make any statement on the Chief Minister's post, Congress leader and Kumaraswamy's bte noire Cheluvarayaswamy Thursday said, people across party and community lines desire Siddaramaaih should be Chief Minister, but no one has said- change the CM immediately. He, however, said, "....remaining as Chief Minister orlosing the post will depend on the conduct of Kumaraswamy andnot any Congress men or leader." Reacting to this, JD(S) leader and minister C SPuttaraju said the JD(S) and the Congress together have named Kumaraswamy as Chief Minister for five year's term and the question of making Siddaramaiah Chief Minister will arise only after the term is over. The issue also reportedly came up for informal discussion during the cabinet meeting Thursday, duringwhich several JD(S) Ministers are said to have expressed their displeasure on the clamour for Siddaramaiah as Chief Minister, when the post was not vacant. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman Thursday described Rajiv Gandhi a martyr and said though the BJP respects him, that doesn't mean it won't talk about the "misrule and corruption" of his government. She was backing Prime Minister Narendra Modi on his claim that the Gandhi family used the Navy's iconic aircraft carrier INS Viraat as its "personal taxi" when Rajiv Gandhi headed the Congress government in 1980s, to which the grand old party has raised strong objection. Sitharaman claimed the issue related to the alleged misuse of INS Viraat by the Gandhi family had been in public domain for long and maintained that two leading national magazines had written about it at length in 2013. "The details regarding INS Viraat is in public domain. All know about it," the defence minister told reporters. Sitharaman was replying to a query on Modi's claim that the Navy was made to host the Gandhi family and Rajiv Gandhi's in-laws, and a helicopter was also deployed in their service. "INS Viraat was insulted by using it as a personal taxi. This happened when Rajiv Gandhi and his family was out for a 10-day vacation. INS Viraat was deployed for securing our maritime boundary. But it was diverted to take the Gandhi family which was out for a vacation," Modi had said at a poll rally in Delhi on Wednesday. Rajiv Gandhi was the prime minister from 1984 to 1989. "INS Viraat crew members have also accepted that Rajiv Gandhi, his family and his wife's family were ferried in the warship," Sitharaman claimed. The defence minister alleged that the Congress had in the past misused the Army, Navy and the Air Force, and is now accusing the BJP of politicising the defence forces. Asserting that Rajiv Gandhi was a prime minister who later became a martyr, Sitharaman said, "We respect him fully, but this does not mean we won't talk about his government's misrule, corruption and policies." "Whenever we talk about the escape of (Union Carbide CEO) Warren Anderson, the prime accused in the Bhopal gas tragedy, the mention of the Rajiv Gandhi government is bound to be made. "What is wrong in it?" she posed in reply to a question. Sitharaman said some of Modi's recent statements were a reaction to repeated attacks on him by the Congress and other opposition parties. "The way the opposition parties and their leaders were hurling abuses at the prime minister, he, after collecting (relevant information), was paying them back," she said. The Congress doesn't have any issue and hence it is using abusive language against Modi, Sitharaman claimed, adding Rahul Gandhi was making baseless allegations regarding the Rafale jet deal to sully Modi's image. The Congress president has repeatedly hurled "chowkidar chor hai" (the watchman is a thief) jibe at Modi to target him over the Rafale deal. Asserting that the multi-crore fighter aircraft deal is in the country's interest, Sitharaman claimed that the CAG, the Supreme Court and other agencies have established no wrongdoing in the mega defence contract with France. She said Rahul Gandhi was in a catch-22 situation after raising the Rafale deal issue and alleged that he was now speaking "lies" knowingly and out of compulsion to keep the issue alive. Asked about claims of surgical strikes under the UPA government, the defence minister said, "I won't comment on surgical strike claims of the pre-Modi government." "If surgical strikes took place earlier, why the then government did not reveal it? Now, when we have carried out the surgical strike why are they indulging in me too?" she asked. She said the people of India had given the BJP a clear mandate in the 2014 Lok Sabha polls and Modi laid a strong foundation on it to take the country forward. Respect for India has grown in the comity of nations in the last five years, Sitharaman said. "The Modi government has adopted a zero tolerance policy on terrorism. "We are thriving on the strong foundation and every Indian has faith in Modi. People are feeling absolutely secure under the Modi government," she added. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Veteran Congress leader Tarun Gogoi on Thursday claimed that the BJP has just one option to win this Lok Sabha election - that is tampering the EVMs, which the opposition parties are fearing. Claiming that the saffron party will lose in Uttar Pradesh and other states in north and south India, the former Assam chief minister said the next government at the Centre will be formed with the support of the Congress. "(Prime Minister) Narendra Modi's days have come to an end. He is sure to go. They (the BJP) will lose unless they go for tampering of EVMs, that is what the opposition parties are suspecting," Gogoi said at a press conference here. The BJP will lose badly in Uttar Pradesh along with other places in north and south India, while the Congress will improve its tally in many states, including Assam, he claimed. "Even (BJP national general secretary) Ram Madhav has also hinted that the BJP is losing," Gogoi said. Gogoi was referring to Madhav's recent interview in which he had said the BJP will need the support of its allies to form the government at the Centre. "We will get the highest number of seats among all the opposition parties. With our active support, a non-BJP government will be formed at the Centre," he added. On Modi's frequent reference to former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi during election campaigns in the past few days, Gogoi said it is being done unnecessarily. "The PM should have a level. What is the need to bring Rajiv Gandhi's name here? He died 28 years ago and his name is being raked up for no reason," the Congress leader said. He wondered how Modi is claiming himself as the "most popular PM" of this country as his party had secured only 31 per cent votes in the 2014 Lok Sabha election. "Rajiv Gandhi had bagged 49 per cent vote and you say he was not popular! This is all about publicity and I accept that we are lagging behind in publicity. In politics, publicity is needed," he added. On the National Register of Citizens (NRC), the former chief minister during whose tenure the exercise began, alleged that the BJP government is not interested in bringing out an error-free document for its own political benefits. "This final NRC will not be correct. It is going to be a wasteful exercise, because what the BJP wants is the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill. Both the documents cannot be implemented simultaneously," he said expressing doubt over the efficacy of the NRC. Assam, which had faced influx of people from Bangladesh since the early 20th century, is the only state to have an NRC, first prepared in 1951. Now it is being updated under the supervision of the Supreme Court. The Citizenship (Amendment) Bill provided for according Indian citizenship to non-Muslims from Bangladesh, Pakistan and Afghanistan after seven years of residence in India instead of 12 years, which is the norm currently, even if they do not possess any document. Gogoi said the BJP should have appealed to the Supreme Court to hold the NRC process and implement the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill. "The Government of India is playing a double game. It says one thing, but does just the other," he alleged. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A Kenyan court on Thursday sentenced British terror suspect Jermaine Grant to four years prison for possessing bomb-making materials, charges the accused extremist has long denied. Grant, who is accused by Kenyan authorities of ties to East Africa militant group Al-Shabaab, is already serving a separate nine-year sentence on forgery charges. The Muslim convert was arrested in Mombasa in December 2011 by police who allegedly found chemicals, batteries and switches in his possession. Police said Grant was planning a bombing campaign against hotels popular with foreign tourists. He denied the charges but was found guilty on April 24 by Chief Magistrate Evans Makori, who said there was sufficient evidence that Grant was in possession of the explosive materials. Grant was sentenced in December 2015 to nine years in jail on separate charges related to forgery. He had earlier plead guilty to being in the country illegally and lying about his nationality. Prosecutors in Kenya had accused Grant of working with fellow Briton Samantha Lewthwaite, dubbed the "White Widow" by the British tabloid press. Lewthwaite is the widow of Germaine Lindsay, one of four radical Islamist suicide bombers who attacked the London transport network on July 7, 2005, killing 52 people. Despite repeated rumours there has been no confirmed sighting of her since she gave Kenyan police the slip in Mombasa in 2011. Grant is believed to have become radicalised as a teenager in the same British prison where "shoe bomber" Richard Reid first turned to Islam. Reid, who claimed he was an Al-Qaeda recruit, is serving a life sentence in the United States for trying to blow up a flight from Paris to Miami in December 2001. Al-Qaeda-linked Al-Shabaab has been waging an insurgency against Somalia's foreign-backed government for over a decade. While it has lost some ground, the group continues to stage deadly attacks. In late 2018, the US military estimated there were between 3,000 to 7,000 Shabaab fighters in Somalia. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Thursday rejected the plea of sacked jawan Tej Bahadur Yadav, challenging the Election Commission's decision to reject his nomination papers from Varanasi Lok Sabha seat. A bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi said, "we do not find any grounds to entertain the plea of Yadav". Advocate Prashant Bhushan, appearing for Yadav, said, as per earlier verdict of the apex court, the election petition can be filed during enforcement of the Model Code of Conduct. Senior advocate Rakesh Dwivedi, appearing for the Election Commission, also referred to various apex court judgments and said election petitions can only be filed after polls are over as it would vitiate the electoral process. At the fag end of the hearing, Bhushan sought liberty from the court to file an election petition after polling is over. "We have done what we could have done. We find no grounds to entertain this petition," the court said. Yadav, who was dismissed in 2017 after he posted a video online complaining about the food served to troops, was fielded by the Samajwadi Party as its candidate from the Varanasi seat. Prime Minister Narenda Modi is contesting from the Varanasi Lok Sabha seat. Yadav, in his plea, had termed the decision of the poll panel discriminatory and unreasonable and had said it should be set aside. A Karnataka BJP delegation Thursday approached the Election Commission requesting an independent probe into the alleged role of police officers in carrying Rs 1.2 lakh in a government vehicle in the Hassan constituency a day before polling in the state. The delegation, comprising BJP national general secretary Muralidhar Rao, party's state general secretary Aravind Limbavali and MP Rajeev Chandrasekhar, informed the ECI that it does not have "faith and trust" in the investigation being carried out by the state police department. "It is a serious complaint. The money was seized on April 17 from a police vehicle in Holenarsipura, Hassan constituency a day before the first phase of election. This is a serious incident," Rao told reporters after meeting the ECI. The delegation demanded an independent inquiry in the matter instead of an investigation by the state police department. "We have given a memorandum and the EC has agreed with our arguments and assured of coming out with a positive decision at the earliest," Rao said. He also hoped the ECI would take steps to initiate an effective investigation by an independent agency, preferably by a team of such officers with unimpeachable integrity and reputation from outside Karnataka. In the memorandum, the state BJP informed that Rs 1.2 lakh in cash was seized from a vehicle owned by the Bengaluru Police a day before the election on April 18 in Holenarsipura in Hassan constituency, from where JDS chief and former prime minister H D Deve Gowda's grandson was contesting. "There are strong reservations about the impartiality and fairness in the investigation by the Karnataka state police. No purpose would be served in continuing with the investigation by the state police as any such investigation would be a mere eye-wash exercise," the party said. The BJP also requested the ECI to collate and assess all such information regarding election-related malpractices of unlawful usage of state machinery and unaccounted money in the state and seek a thorough, independent and effective investigation into the matter. "The unlawful use of state machinery to transport sizeable amount of unaccounted money during elections forms only the tip of the iceberg of what could possibly be the biggest and almost detrimental instance of constitutional subterfuge," it added. The state BJP said it had to approach the ECI as the Karnataka CEO did not take any action despite the complaint. The saffron party's state unit has so far filed as many as 272 complaints before the Karnataka Chief Election Officer (CEO) It is for the first time, the party has brought this matter to the ECI. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The CBI has registered a fresh case against absconding diamantaire Jatin Mehta, Winsome Diamonds and Jewellery and a Jordanian Hathyam Salman Ali Obaidah for allegedly cheating Bank of India to the tune of Rs 82.55 crore, officials said Thursday. The agency has booked Winsome Diamonds and Jewellery, the then Director of the company Mehta , a Jordanian Hathyam Salman Ali Abu Obeidah, Forever Diamonds and unidentified officials of Bank of India in the case, they said. Mehta continued to be Managing Director of the company till April, 2011 when he stepped down from the post and became non executive director for strategic and policy decisions of the company, the Bank of India has claimed in its complaint. By the time the alleged fraud surfaced, Mehta had left the country and was believed to be in one of the The Caribbean islands, the sources said. The agency has already filed at least six FIRs against him related to alleged bank frauds. It is alleged that Bank of India had sanctioned working capital limit of Rs 96 crore to the company in January 2013. The company had purchased gold from bullion banks abroad -- Bank of Nova Scotia, Standard Bank PLC London and Standard Chartered Bank -- on loan basis against the Standby Letter of Credit (SBLC) issued by Bank of India, the complaint alleged. The gold bought from bullion banks abroad was processed by the company and sent to 13 buyers in the UAE suspected to be in hand in glove with Winsome Diamonds and its directors, it has alleged. "These buyers have willfully defaulted in their payments to Winsome Diamonds and Jewellery and eventually SBLCs were invoked by foreign bullion banks resulting in loss to Bank of India," it alleged. The SBLC is a guarantee issued by a bank assuring other bank that it will make payment in case of default by its client. "The said bullion banks released the gold under separate gold loan agreements entered with the company against SBLC issued by the Indian Banks in favour of the bullion banks. After manufacturing, jewellery was exported to overseas buyers," the bank said in its complaint to the CBI, which is now part of the FIR. The company, after getting payments from overseas buyers, repays gold loan availed from bullion banks and the SBLC automatically reverses on confirmation by bullion banks. In 2013, four SBLCs issued by Bank of India worth over Rs 87.17 crore were invoked by the bullion banks for non payment of loan by Winsom Diamonds, it said. It is alleged by Bank of India that Jordan national Obaidah was controlling all the 13 UAE based buyer firms through a power of attorney. It is alleged that he cheated Bank of India by diverting the bank's funds, causing wrongful loss of Rs 82.55 crore to the bank. The banks declared account of Winsome Diamonds and Jewellery as non performing asset on June 30, 2013 and declared it fraud on December 3, 2015. Using funds from the banks, Mehta had made huge investments in real estate or setting up family business in the name of Gemesis in Singapore, it alleged. The company did not do any bullion trade in the year ending March 31, 2013 and the funds were diverted to Gemesis, an artifical diamond manufacturing company owned by Mehta family, it was alleged. The bank has alleged it was never revealed that Obeidah had power of attorney to control 13 UAE based buyers which came to the knowledge of lender banks only at the time of visit to Dubai by Standard Chartered Bank on April 18, 2013 and subsequently by five members of core committee of lenders on May 23 and 24, 2013. Nine new customers of Dubai were introduced to the company at the instance of Obeidah. These customers caused dues of Rs 3,808 crore towards Winsome Diamonds and Jewellery as on March 31, 2013 and very negligible amount could be recovered by the company, the banks alleged. "The selection of these nine new customers by Jatin Mehta was either deliberate attempt in connivance with Haytham Salman Ali Abu Obaidah or a faulty selection of customers which led to misappropriation and siphoning of funds aggregating Rs 3,808 crore," it said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Central Bureau of Investigation has filed a supplementary charge sheet against a journalist for allegedly receiving Rs 4 crore from a ponzi company, officials said Thursday. In its charge sheet filed in a special court in Bhubaneswar, the agency has claimed that journalist Suman Chattopadhyay, who was a director of Disha Productions and Media Private Limited (DPMPL), had received the amount from the I-Core Group. The CBI said Chattopadhyay was already chargesheeted by the agency in August 2017 for Rs 2,421 crore fraud. It has alleged Chattopadhyay conspired with the directors of I-Core and received money from the ponzi company, which he used to liquidate his liabilities with a nationalised bank. The accused was running a daily Bengali newspaper, where he promoted collection of illegal deposits by I-Core by publishing advertisements of the said group, resulting in "phenomenal" rise in collection of deposits by the group from the investors of West Bengal, Odisha and Assam, the agency alleged. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Centre will deploy over 71,000 security personnel to ensure violence-free elections in eight Lok Sabha constituencies of West Bengal on May 12, Home Ministry officials said Thursday. Polling will be held in Tamluk, Kanthi, Gathal, Jhargram, Medinipur, Purulia, Bankura and Bishnupur constituencies on Sunday. To avoid improvised explosive devices (IEDs) in the Maoist-affected Jangalmahal area of Bengal, security personnel have been directed not to move in vehicles, they said. The officials said 713 companies or 71,300 security men and women are being deployed for election duties in Bengal for the May 12 polls. There will 602 companies of the Central Armed Police Forces -- CRPF, BSF, CISF, SSB, ITBP, RPF and RAF -- and 111 companies of the state armed police. A company has about 100 personnel. The decision has been taken considering incidents of violence in previous polls, incidents on the eve of polling and sensitivity of areas in Maoist-affected zones, the officials said. To instill confidence among voters, various measures like route marches, long range patrols, and cordon and search operations are being conducted in the eight constituencies, they said. The adhoc commandants and company commanders are being briefed by senior officers of the West Bengal sector about the sensitivity of the constituencies, previous incidents of poll-related violence, incidents like attacks on polling parties, candidates, polling agents and security forces, and instances of intimidation of voters. In addition to deployment of forces at all polling stations and mandatory Quick Reaction Teams (QRTs), 547 Quick Action Teams (QATs) headed by company commanders have also been instructed to be on the move, the officials said. The QATs have been told to be in vehicles in their designated area and to ensure immediate action, whenever they receive any complaint from district polling officials, polling magistrates, voters, candidates and control rooms. The heads of the QATs and additional QATs have been briefed to be in touch with each other to ensure prompt and effective action without loosing much time, the officials said. To avoid IEDs, forces deployed in the Janglamahal area have been told not to move in vehicles. They are also briefed to check all culverts -- probable places of planting IEDs -- before movement, they said. Forces deployed in the Janglamahal area shall wear bullet proof jackets, helmets and carry adequate ammunition, the officials said. These measures are being taken to ensure free, fair and peaceful polls and also to encourage, motivate people to go to polling station to cast their votes without any fear, they said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) / -- Registration for this year's Eye Level Model United Nations (MUN) camp, which will take place from August 6 to August 11 in South Korea, is now open to children all over the world. This special event is a partnership between Eye Level, a global leader in educational services, the United Nations, the South Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Save the Children Korea. Students between third to sixth grades of elementary are welcome to participate in the selection process for the 2019 Eye Level MUN camp. Registration is free, and students will compete for 50 invitations from Eye Level to attend the camp; this will include a complimentary trip to Korea along with meals and accommodations as well as various commemorative items, all provided by Eye Level. For every participant that registers, Eye Level will donate $1 to Save the Children Korea, a charitable organization that seeks to improve the lives of our youngest populations around the world. The Eye Level MUN Camp is an academic simulation for children interested in learning how United Nations work together to solve real-world issues that affect societies and communities at a global level. In essence, students get to play the role of UN delegates from assigned countries. A strong focus of the Eye Level MUN camp is to sharpen language skills so that students can develop their public speaking capabilities. Students will also have an opportunity to develop their leadership skills as well as acquire knowledge about cultural diversity awareness. Moreover, those selected can meet a former UN ambassador and get to understand how global issues such as the situation in the Korean Peninsula have great hopes of being resolved through peaceful diplomacy. The Eye Level MUN camp is more than just learning about geopolitics and international relations; students also participate in recreational activities involving music, dance, and sports. Thanks to the current trend of internet connectivity and social networking, the international friends that children make at the camp could last forever. Parents are encouraged to visit the website to learn more about this program. Ever since Ban Ki-moon served as the 8th Secretary-General of the United Nations, Korea has understood the role it can play in terms of advancing global diplomacy, and this is a reason Eye Level has been deeply honored to organize these events. The Eye Level MUN camp participants of today could be the future global leaders of tomorrow. ABOUT Eye Level Eye Level is an international provider of supplemental services in Math and English. More than 2 million students from 3-15 have experienced its programs. The core principles of Eye Level promote self-directed learning while building strong academic foundations and increasing motivation to acquire knowledge. The goal of Eye Level is to prepare students to embrace learning as a lifelong project with a focus on mastery. Video - http://cdn4.prnasia.com/002071/mnr/video/2018DaekyoMUNCampMaster.mp4 Photo - https://photos.prnasia. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The US Acting Defence Secretary Patrick Shanahan on Thursday said Beijing is diligently building an " network of coercion through predatory economics", as he made a scathing criticism of the ambitious 'One Belt, One Road' (OBOR) project, which is aimed at enhancing China's global influence by financing and building huge infrastructure projects. At a Congressional hearing, Shanahan also told the lawmakers that to achieve hegemony in the Indo-Pacific region in the near term and shape a world consistent with its authoritarian model, China is aggressively modernising its military and seeking advantage through a strategy of "military-civil fusion". "China is diligently building an network of coercion through predatory economics to expand its sphere of influence. Sovereign nations around the globe are discovering the hard way that China's economic 'friendship' via One Belt, One Road can come at a steep cost when promises of investment go unfulfilled and standards and safeguards are ignored," he said. Citing examples, he said saddled with predatory Chinese loans, Sri Lanka handed over its southern port of Hambantota to China on a 99-year lease as well as 70 per cent stake in its deep-water port. Also, Maldives owes China roughly $1.5 billion debt, about 30 per cent of its GDP, as construction costs. " will owe China at least $10 billion in debt for the construction of Gwadar Port and other projects," Shanahan said. He further said Djibouti owes China more than 80 per cent of its GDP and in 2017, became host to China's first overseas military base. In Latin America, Ecuador agreed to sell 80 to 90 per cent of its exportable crude oil to China through 2024 in exchange for USD 6.5 billion Chinese loans. "After leasing land tax-free to China for 50 years, Argentina is denied access and oversight to a Chinese satellite tracking station on its sovereign territory, unwittingly allowing the facility's use for military purposes," he said. The list of nations, the Defense Secretary said, entrapped by China's predatory debt tactics runs long. "Under the guise of good-intentioned development, Beijing continues to leverage debt for economic or political concessions -- a practice we expect will intensify as more nations prove unable to pay China back," he said. Shanahan also expressed concern over massive jump in Chinese military spending from $20 billion to $170 billion in the last two decades. He also said China is building up its inventory of missiles to circumvent US and allied defences and deny America critical military access to the Indo-Pacific. "Within the past five years alone, China has successfully tested hypersonic cruise and boost glide weapons concepts for these purposes," Shanahan said. "The US cannot ignore China's ability to target US and allied space capabilities. We also cannot ignore China's ambitions in the cyber domain, which it recognises as the battlefield's 'nerve centre'," he said. Shanahan said Beijing's increasingly provocative behaviour in the Indo-Pacific, particularly the South China Sea (SCS), should concern all. "Between 2013 and 2018, China increased its air and sea incursions into the SCS twelve-fold. Within those five years, it also increased deployments of offensive and defensive weapons systems to the SCS by the same order of magnitude," he said. State-owned Container Corporation of India (CONCOR) Thursday said it will pump in up to Rs 8,000 crore in the next five years to develop dry ports and distribution logistics centres across the country. "We are coming up with 20 distribution logistics centres and 100 dry ports. We are already operating 83 (dry ports) and we will make it 100. The 20 distribution logistics centres will be connected to 100 (dry ports). Total investment in the next five years will be Rs 6,000-Rs 8,000 crore," CONCOR Chairman and Managing Director V Kalyana Rama said during an event here. Container Corporation of India is a navratna company under the Ministry of Railways. CONCOR inaugurated its first distribution logistics centre at Ennore, Chennai, in Tamil Nadu in March. "So, there will be around 120 centres which will be connected as a network to provide these distribution logistics services for entire India. We will be able to give some reduction in the logistics cost," he added. The company, he said, is planning to line up Rs 1,000 crore as a capital expenditure in the current financial year. "This year (financial year), we are planning (a capital expenditure) of Rs 1,000 crore. Last year, We spent Rs 770 crore," he added. He further said the state-owned company is expecting a growth of around 10-12 per cent in the financial year 2019-20. "Last fiscal, on the volume side, it (the growth) was around eight per cent, and on the financial side (topline), (it was) 12 per cent and bottom line, it was 21 per cent," the CMD said. CONCOR commenced operations in 1989. It now has the network of 83 inland container depots and container freight stations. In addition to providing inland transport by rail for containers, it has also expanded to cover management of ports, air cargo complexes and establishing cold-chain, according to its website. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) / -- UBM India announced the 7th edition of the Concrete Show India (CSI), the only expo in the country exclusively dedicated to the Construction and Infrastructure sector. Covering key areas including roads and highways, housing, airports, ports, power, rail, dams & bridges, CSI 2019 will be held at the Bombay Convention & Exhibition Centre (BEC), Goregaon, Mumbai from May 16th - 18th. (Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/675607/UBM_Logo.jpg) (Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/884507/CSI_2019_Logo.jpg) The three-day show will provide excellent opportunities to industry professionals who come from construction verticals including Engineering, Procurement & Construction (EPC's), Commercial & Residential Building Construction, Government & Civil Infrastructure, specialized Architects, Consultants and Contractors & Developers. Professionals from diverse teams including Procurement, Planning & Design, Quality Control, Project Management, Building maintenance, Site maintenance, Materials management and Engineering teams. Latest offerings in core categories encompassing Concrete & Construction, Construction Equipments, Construction Chemical, Commercial & Industrial flooring, Automations, Software (ERP, Project management, & Design) and mobile Construction tools & Instruments will be showcased at the event. Over 150 exhibitors have confirmed their presence at this turnkey event. They include prominent industry players like JSW Cement, Ajax, Chowgule Construction Chemicals Pvt. Ltd., Masa Concrete Plants India Pvt. Ltd., Elematic India Private Limited, KYB Conmat, Columbia Machine Engineering (I) Pvt. Ltd., Prism RMC, Maxmech Equipments Pvt. Ltd., Aimil Ltd., RDC Concrete (India) Pvt. Ltd., SURIE POLEX, Fairmate Chemicals Pvt Ltd., J.K.Cement and MC-Bauchemie to name a few. Visitors at the show can also expect to closely examine an array of brands and products from States such as Maharashtra, Gujarat & Karnataka and countries such as Germany, Italy, USA, Japan, Australia, UK, Korea, Switzerland, Austria, China, Turkey and Taiwan. The show will have three prominent pavilions of Europe, China and Turkey. Speaking on the announcement of the 7th edition of Concrete Show India, Mr. Yogesh Mudras, Managing Director, UBM India, said, "Infrastructure is the backbone of a country's economy and investing in infrastructure is vital and it has a long-lasting effect on other sectors like banking and power. In recent times there has been a significant push from the government in the infrastructure and housing sector as seen in the interim Budget 2019. From roadways, railways to airports and other smart-city initiatives, the last few years have witnessed a phenomenal growth in the sector, leading to world-class facilities coming up across the country. With mention of flagship schemes like Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojna (PMGSY), UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik) amongst others, the government reiterated its continued thrust and commitment to these programs. However, except the housing sector where direct and indirect fiscal benefits are likely to lead to real growth, the interim budget did not delve much into direct or indirect increase in allocation or investments in other sectors. Against this landscape, we at Concrete Show India firmly believe that the show will prove to be a channel to the opportunities existing in India's rapidly growing concrete and infrastructure market." The event has been well-received by the industry with support from key organisations and Associations such as Tunnelling Association of India (TAI), Ready Mixed Concrete Manufacturers' Association (RMCMA), The American Concrete Institute (ACI), The Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (CSIR), Construction Equipment Rental Association ( CERA ), Indian Concrete Institute (ICI) and American Society Civil Engineering to name a few. CSI 2019 will feature a two-day insightful conference. Day 1 will present a theme on 'Concrete & Construction - A 360 degree approach'. Helmed by industry thought leaders, the first day of the conference will cover topics of discussion pertaining to 'Lessons learned from Landmark Concrete Construction Projects', 'Best Practices in Overseas Projects', 'Deep Learning in Concrete', 'Market Transformation Towards Energy Efficient Bricks', 'Smart Cities and Infrastructure: An Integrated Approach and Future technologies in Concrete Construction', Panel discussions on Concrete & Sustainability - Widening the Use of Alternative Materials, Flyash, GGBS, Plastic and Field Leadership Excellence. Day 2 of the conference will present a theme on 'Precast Technology In Construction' and will cover topics such as 'Precast Concrete Panels for Road Pavers', 'Precast Technology For Infrastructure Projects', 'Equipment for Precast- PreFab Technology', 'Precast Technology For Mass Housing', 'Manufacturing RCC Buildings with Three dimensional Modular Precast Solutions for Bungalows & Homes', case studies on 'Precast Technology For Industrial Structures' and 'Precast Technology For Residential Buildings' and a panel discussion on 'Opportunities and Challenges in Precast Technology in India'. Leading speakers including, Shri Sudhir Srivastava, Chairman, Maharashtra Pollution Control Board, Dr. Rakesh Kumar, Director, NEERI, Ashish Singh, IAS, Secretary, PWD department, A L Jarhad, IAS, Additional Municipal Commissioner, Mr Vivek Taneja, Busines Head -Waste to Wealth and Integrated Utility Solutions, Thermax Ltd, Power Division, Dr Yogini Deshpande, Principal Consultant, Renuka Consultants among others are scheduled to speak at the conference. In addition to this, a variety of engagement platforms including the Innovation Zone, Student Incubation Cell, Demonstration Areas, Start-up Zones, Business to Business & Business to Government and Experience Zones will enable a strong interaction and participation from all stakeholders in the industry. About Concrete Show India Concrete Show India is organized by UBM, which in June 2018 combined with Informa PLC to become a leading B2B information services group and the largest B2B Events organiser in the world. Please visit https://www.concreteshowindia.com/ for more information on the Concrete Show India and http://www.ubm.com/global-reach/ubm-asia for our presence in Asia. About UBM Asia: UBM Asia recently became part of Informa PLC, a leading B2B information services group and the largest B2B Events organiser in the world. Please visit http://www.ubm.com/asia for more information about our presence in Asia. Source: UBM India Pvt. Ltd. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Congress has lost all political credibility when it comes to addressing the issue of poverty, Union minister Nitin Gadkari said on Thursday, taking a dig at Rahul Gandhi's proposed "Nyay" scheme by invoking Congress prime ministers, who, he claimed, had vowed to eradicate poverty and failed. Addressing a press conference at the BJP office here, Gadkari also alleged that the Congress had deliberately created "fear" in the minds of the minorities to divert attention from performance, work and development, which should have been the issues in the ongoing Lok Sabha election. "The Congress party has no credibility. After 1947, (then prime minister Jawaharlal) Nehru said he will remove poverty. Then Indira Gandhi said this. She used the slogan of removing poverty and won (elections), but poverty did not go. Then Rajiv Gandhi repeated that, then Sonia Gandhi and then Manmohan Singh, but poverty did not go. "Now, even Panditji's (Nehru) great-grandson is saying the same thing. If he (Congress chief Rahul Gandhi) will remove poverty by giving Rs 72,000, then what did Pandit Nehru, Indira Gandhi, Manmohan Singh do? That is why the political credibility of the Congress in removing poverty has ended," he said. The senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader further alleged that the Congress had a history of injustice and since 1947, it had been responsible for "wrong economic policies, bad and corrupt governance and visionless leadership". "So, 'Nyay' will not happen, because with justice, the person doling it out should also be trustworthy," he said. Gadkari also lashed out at the opposition party for the abuse it had meted out to Prime Minister Narendra Modi during its poll campaign and said he had a list of 56 such abuses. "The Congress deliberately wants to ensure that performance and work do not become poll issues. That is why they have done two things. "One, fear is their biggest capital. Create fear in the minds of Dalits, minorities, SCs and STs. Two, ensure that a discussion on the work done in five years, which had not happened in 50 years, does not take place. If the discussion revolves around development, then they know they will be in trouble," he said. Under the Modi government, the social sector had benefitted immensely, Gadkari said, while talking about opening of bank accounts, roads, water and electricity. "Last time during the Kumbh, the prime minister of Mauritius could not go for a bath in the Ganga.... This time, 20 crore people visited the Kumbh and took bath in the river. For the first time, the Ganga was pure and clean. "We did what we promised. We made the waterways and that is why (Congress leader) Priyanka (Gandhi Vadra) could travel from Prayagraj to Varanasi on a boat while abusing us continuously. I want to ask her, had we not made the waterway, how would she have done that? She could drink the water thrice because we have cleaned the Ganga water. Or else, she would have also had to leave like the Mauritius PM," the Union minister for road transport and highways said. He said it was unfortunate that those who had promoted the accused in the 1984 anti-Sikh riots, those who had failed to give justice to the victims were now talking about "Nyay". "The of performance and development is our biggest asset. Our schemes have reached every nook and cranny of this country and that is how we want to fight the election. The lowering of the standard of the discourse during this election has been noticed by the people of this country. We will form a BJP-led NDA government with a record mandate," Gadkari said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Congress' social media strategist Divya Spandana on Thursday slammed Prime Minister Narendra Modi for allegedly taking Canadian citizen Akshay Kumar with him onboard Indian Navy warship Sumitra. Her attack on Modi came a day after he accused late prime minister Rajiv Gandhi of using warship INS Viraat as a "personal taxi" for a family holiday. "Yeh teek tha? @narendramodi you took a Canadian citizen @akshaykumar with you on-board INS Sumitra," Spandana tweeted with the hashtag 'sabse bada jhoota Modi (biggest liar Modi)'. Setting to rest speculation about his citizenship, actor Akshay Kumar had earlier this month said he holds a Canadian passport. Spandana also tagged a link to an article which raised questions as to why Bollywood was roped in for International Fleet Review at Visakhapatnam in 2016. "Kumar even sailed in the presidential yacht INS Sumitra along with naval chiefs and other VVIPs," the report said. Spandana also asked Bollywood legend Amitabh Bachchan to clear his stand on the INS Viraat issue, citing a report which quoted former Lakshadweep administrator Wajahat Habibullah denying the PM's claim and saying check with Bachchan in case of doubt. Prime Minister Modi, at a rally here on Wednesday, accused the Gandhi family of using warship INS Viraat as its "personal taxi" for a holiday when Rajiv Gandhi was at the helm, launching a fresh attack on the late Congress leader days after throwing the "bhrashtachari no 1" barb at him. "Ever imagined that a premier warship of the Indian armed forces could be used as a taxi for a personal holiday? One dynasty did it," Modi had said. The Navy was made to host the Gandhi family and Rajiv Gandhi's in-laws, and a helicopter was also deployed in their service, Modi had claimed, adding that when a family becomes supreme, the country's security is at stake. "INS Viraat was insulted by using it as a personal taxi. This happened when Rajiv Gandhi and his family was out for a 10-day vacation. "INS Viraat was deployed for securing our maritime boundary.But, it was diverted to take the Gandhi family which was out for a vacation," Modi had said. Congress leaders, including its president Rahul Gandhi and general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, have hit out at Modi for his barb at their father, who was India's prime minister between 1984-89. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Congress in Tripura said it filed a petition in the Supreme Court on Thursday seeking fresh election in the entire West Tripura Lok Sabha seat, where polling was allegedly rigged by the ruling BJP. The Congress' move came a day after the state CPI(M) filed a similar petition in the apex court. The two parties took the legal step after the Election Commission ordered that repoll will be held in 168 out of the 1,679 polling stations of West Tripura seat on May 12. The Left party Thursday claimed that announcement of repoll in so many polling stations in a single constituency is "political defeat" for the BJP. Polling in the constituency was held on April 11 and the CPI(M) and the Congress had demanded repoll in the entire constituency, alleging large-scale rigging by the BJP. "Our petition was filed in the Supreme Court today. Senior party leader Abhishek Manu Singhvi will fight the case," state Congress vice-president Tapas Dey told PTI here. CPI(M)'s West Tripura candidate Shankar Prasad Dutta on Wednesday filed the party's petition in the apex court challenging the EC' decision of holding repoll only in 168 polling stations. "The EC's decision to hold repoll is political defeat for the BJP. Repolling in so many booths of a single constituency has set a precedence in the country," CPI(M) state secretary Gautam Das told a conference. Elections were largely rigged by the ruling BJP and more than 50 per cent of the voters could not exercise their franchise in West Tripura seat on April 11, he alleged. In his report, West Tripura returning officer had said webcasting cameras did not function properly in 433 polling stations, Das claimed. The state Left Front convener and CPI(M) central committee member Bijan Dhar, who was also present in the press conference, urged the voters to vote against the BJP during repoll on Sunday. After allegations of rigging in West Tripura were raised, the EC had postponed voting in East Tripura, the other Lok Sabha seat in the state, to the third phase on April 23 from April 18, saying the prevailing law-and-order situation there is not conducive for holding free and fair poll. Special Election Observer Vinod Zutshi had come here late last month and examined footages recorded in webcams in the booths of West Tripura and other documents. He later submitted his report to the EC. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Congress leader Sam Pitroda on Thursday said the BJP-led government at the Centre had failed on all sectors and challenged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to a debate with him as he is also a "Gujarati". Pitroda said an atmosphere had been created where people do not believe in facts, but "lies" that are being promoted on social media. "Modi has misused the public money on self-promotion and advertisement," Pitroda said, alleging that half of the budget of the Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao was spent on advertisement. "Come, debate on issues. Have a debate with (Congress chief) Rahul Gandhi and, if not him, then debate with me. I am also a Gujarati," Patroda told reporters here. Rather than talking about the work done in the past five years, Pitroda said, Modi was drawing attention to the border, nationality of Congress chief Rahul Gandhi and attacking former prime minister Rajiv Gandhi. Pitroda said the Lok Sabha election is the most important in the history of India, saying it is not a contest between the Bharatiya Janata Party and the Congress. "This election is about the future of India. About what kind of nation we want," he said. Likening the proposed Nyay scheme with the MGNREGA, Pitroda said the minimum income scheme would kick-start the rural economy. The BJP government failed in its promise of providing 10 crore jobs in five years, instead 24 lakh government posts are lying vacant, Pitroda said. "It also faltered on the promise of 100 smart cities. They promised to double farmers' income, but it has declined," Pitroda said. "The national debt has increased by 50 per cent. Budget on education has been cut from 4.9 per cent to 3.4 per cent. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A public notice will be issued by poll authorities here on Saturday to disseminate information to voters about the option of using NOTA (none of the above) if they wish to reject all candidates, the Delhi CEO said. The NOTA button is located at the end of an EVM panel of a ballot unit, trailing the list of names of all candidates. An electronic voting machine (EVM) consists of at least one ballot unit, a control unit and a VVPAT (voter-verified paper audit trail). Each EVM panel or a ballot unit can accommodate names of a maximum of 15 candidates. So, in case of 15 candidates in a constituency, the 16th button would be of NOTA. In case of more than 15 candidates, another ballot unit is added, and the NOTA appears at the end of the list of candidates on the second panel, and so on. "On May 11, a day ahead of the election in Delhi, a public notice will appear in newspapers about the option of NOTA available to voters, which can be used by them without violation of secrecy of their decision," Delhi Chief Electoral Officer Ranbir Singh told PTI. Asked if the notice will appear on social media accounts of the Delhi CEO office, he said, "Yes, we can put it up there as well". Election in Delhi is slated to be held on May 12 on all seven Lok Sabha seats. As many as 164 candidates are in the fray in Delhi, where the polls is largely being seen as a triangular contest among the AAP, BJP and the Congress. In six of the seven constituencies, each polling station would have one control unit, two ballot units and a VVPAT, while in North West constituency, there would be just a single ballot unit along with a control unit and a VVPAT as there are only 11 candidates for that seat, the CEO had earlier said. The NOTA, symbolised on an EVM by a black cross over a ballot, essentially allows a voter to reject all candidates if he or she does not want to cast vote to any contestant, but the vote is counted in the polling process. Of the over 1.43 crore voters in Delhi, 78,73,022 are male and 64,42,762 female, while 669 belong to the third gender. The number of overseas electors stands at 40 while count of service voters is 11,005. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A on Thursday granted bail to Congress leader in a defamation case filed by NSA Ajit Doval's son Vivek against him and 'The Caravan' magazine for an article published in January. The complaint was filed against The Caravan and the author of the article, besides Ramesh. Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate Samar Vishal framed defamation charges against all the three accused after they pleaded not guilty in the case. In his complaint, Vivek Doval had said the magazine and Ramesh, who had held a press conference repeating the allegations levelled by the magazine, had attempted to "deliberately malign and defame" him to "settle scores with his father". The Delhi High Court has come to the aid of a woman who is set to remarry soon by waiving the cooling off period for divorce from her estranged husband. Justice Prateek Jalan noted that there does not appear to be any likelihood of reconciliation between the estranged couple and relied on a verdict of the Supreme Court which had ruled that divorce can be granted without the mandatory 18-month period of separation between the parties. The apex court had, in 2017, said that the six month "cooling off" period can be waived by the courts in cases of divorce through mutual consent. The high court allowed a petition by the woman for waiving the statutory period of six months under Section 13B(2) of the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955. It set aside an order of a family court which had rejected the woman's application. The high court said a holistic reading of the apex court's judgement leads to the conclusion that purposeless marriage which has no chance of reunion ought not to be prolonged. The man and woman had got married in July 2017 and started living separately from October 25, 2017. During the proceedings under the Domestic Violence Act, 2005, the parties settled their disputes through mediation. A settlement took place that the marriage be dissolved by mutual consent and it was agreed that the man would pay Rs 3.5 lakh to the woman. They approached the family court to dissolve the marriage and after completion of first motion, the parties filed an application for waiver of the statutory period of six months. The woman intended to remarry another person on May 2 but a day before, the family court rejected the plea for wavier of the statutory period of six months. The high court said the safeguards contained in the statue are intended to explore every avenue of reconciliation and avoid an impulsive decision to break a marriage. "In the present case, there does not appear to be any likelihood of such reconciliation. The parties have lived separately since October 25, 2017 and the composite period of 18 months expired on April 25, 2019. "The petitioner (woman) has also expressed her intention to enter into another marriage with a non-resident Indian, who is resident in Australia. The counsel submits that, although the marriage had been fixed for May 2, it could not be solemnised on that date due to the fact that the present divorce proceedings had not concluded," it said. It was submitted before the court that the prospective bride-groom is in India until May 10 and the insistence on completion of the waiting period of six months would only prolong the woman's agony, contrary to the dictum of the Supreme Court. The court noted that the mandatory period of six months would also be over on May 22, therefore, what is being sought in this petition is a waiver of about 15 days. "The Supreme Court has clearly held that the period mentioned in Section 13B (2) is not mandatory but directory, and that a court may exercise this discretion in the facts and circumstances of each case, when there is no possibility of the parties to resume cohabitation and there are chances of alternative rehabilitation. "In the facts and circumstances of the present case, therefore, the woman's application for wavier of the mandatory period of six months ought to have been allowed," it said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Delhi Police has beefed up security in parts of the national capital ahead of the May 12 polling and will deploy over 60,000 personnel, including the Home Guards and paramilitary forces, in total to ensure a smooth conduct of the election here. Delhi Police Commissioner Amulya Patnaik told PTI the force has chalked out a detailed plan according to the instructions of the Election Commission of India. The deployment of force will be at polling booths and there will be patrolling by special reserve parties in vulnerable areas, the top cop said. "The model code of conduct will be strictly enforced. There will be special watch on border areas to foil any attempt to infiltrate by anti-social elements to cause disruption. There will be strict vigil to ensure malpractices like liquor peddling and movement of anti-social elements with a purpose to influence voters do not happen," Patnaik said. The emphasis will be on giving a prompt response to any complaint received, the Delhi police commissioner added. Anti-terror measures are also in place and special arrangements have been made to check sabotage of polling booths, including election rigging, Madhur Verma, deputy commissioner of police (New Delhi) and also the spokesperson of the force, said. The officer added that extra picket teams have been deployed in border areas too. "Briefings were held with the polling staff on dispersal of EVMs and the routes to be taken to ensure no rigging of EVMs happens on the way. Night patrolling has been intensified to check use of muscle power and money to lure voters," Verma said. Praveer Ranjan, special commissioner of police (election cell), said there are 441 critical polling booths in the national capital which include densely populated areas, some of which have mixed population and criminally sensitive areas. Adequate security forces have been deployed at identified polling stations with Quick Reaction Teams deployed for congested areas across the district in case of emergency, another official added. Flying squads and static surveillance team will closely monitor activities, the official added. A police official said there are three facets to the security apparatus at places where Electronic Voting Machines are kept, border checking, and law and order arrangements for polling and counting days. The officer said police will be involved in enforcing a "Dry Day", which will come into effect from 5 PM on May 10, and liquor vends will be asked to down their shutters. A close watch will be on vends near border areas until 6 PM on the day of voting, the officer added. Another official said 39,000 police personnel will be involved in ensuring the security of polling booths along with 13,000 Home Guards. They will be supplemented by police personnel from the Police Control Room and the traffic unit along with 47 companies of paramilitary personnel, the second official added. Each company comprises 100 personnel. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Delhi's air quality deteriorated to 'severe' due to a dust storm in northwest India which led to a sudden spike in the pollution level in the national capital, the Centre-run SAFAR said. The System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR) recorded the city's air quality index (AQI) at 408 which falls in severe category, while the Central Pollution Control Board showed the AQI in very poor category at 347. An AQI between 0 and 50 is considered 'good', 51 and 100 'satisfactory', 101 and 200 'moderate', 201 and 300 'poor', 301 and 400 'very poor', and 401 and 500 'severe'. SAFAR also gave a list of precautions that people should take under the 'severe' air quality condition, which includes avoiding all physical activity outdoors. "Give a miss to walk today. Stop any activity level if you experience any unusual coughing, chest discomfort, wheezing, breathing difficulty or fatigue and consult doctor. If the room has windows, close them. If the air conditioner provides a fresh air intake option, close it," the SAFAR said. "Avoid burning anything, such as wood, candles or even incense. Keep the room clean - dont vacuum. Do wet mopping frequently. Masks known as N-95 or P-100 respirators may only help if you go out. Do not rely on dust masks for protection," it said. SAFAR said the whole of northwest Indian region is under the grip of blowing dust and the AQI is predicted to remain in severe to upper side of very poor range on Thursday and Friday. "Further deterioration of air quality is expected for today despite high ventilation with lead pollutant changing from PM 2.5 to PM 10. In Delhi, air quality is predicted to touch higher end of the very poor category," the SAFAR said in its daily forecast. "After May 10, Delhi air quality will improve due to expected western disturbance and gusty thunder storm but occasional episodes of sudden peaking of dust on isolated places in northwest India, including Delhi, will be seen," it said. The level of PM2.5 (particles in the air with a diameter of less than 2.5 micrometres) was recorded at 125 and the PM10 level 439. The CPCB convened an emergency meeting of its task force in view of the sudden rise observed in particulate matter concentration in Delhi-NCR. IMD representative informed the meeting that the present air quality levels may be attributed to shifting of dust from neighbouring states. "It is likely that strong surface winds will prevail in Delhi-NCR up to Friday which will result in re-suspension of dust. Inputs were also available from IITM that fresh plume of dust emitted from western Rajasthan and northern Gujarat are expected to reach Delhi by today afternoon," the minutes of the meeting said. The task force reviewed the situation and concluded that primarily dust from outside and localised sources is contributing to rise in pollution levels in Delhi-NCR. The task force advised people to minimise the exposure. It recommended that implementing agencies concerned shall intensify efforts to control dust emanating from various sources such as construction and demolition sites, handling of construction material waste, road dust, stone crushers, ready mix concrete plants, among others. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) In the former Maoist stronghold of Jangalmahal in West Bengal, it is the substantial votebank of the Left Front, along with that of the far-Left parties, which is likely to push the BJP ahead of the TMC in the 2019 general election. Once a formidable fort of the Left, Jhargram and Medinipur seats in Jangalmahal were won by Trinamool Congress in 2014. But discontent with the ruling party in West Bengal is again sweeping the region. Several people PTI spoke to alleged only those who are associated with the TMC get benefits of the programmes run by the Centre and the West Bengal government. Others said the state government is apathetic to them and this has led to a shift in the loyalty of voters as the Left has reduced itself to a minor player in the Lok Sabha election. The shift towards the BJP has become more pronounced in the past two years. In Jhargram, BJP has won all former Maoist strongholds in recent polls. It won Lalgarh, Belpahari, Jamboni, Gopiballavpur, Nayagram and Sankrail gram panchayats. "It is tragic, but true," said Mohisho Mahato, once a CPI(ML) supporter in Lalgarh village in Jhargram district. He said he will vote for the BJP. "The enemy of an enemy is a friend." Both Jhargram and Medinipur, which go to polls on May 12, form the Jangalmahal region along with Bankura and Purulia districts. Jhargram, traditionally a Left bastion, was won by TMC's Uma Soren in 2014. Soren wrested the seat from Pulin Bihari Baske of the Communist Party of India (Marxist), ending the Left's 42-year domination. Medinipur seat was a stronghold of the Communist Party of India until 2014, when the TMC defeated it. TMC's Sandhya Roy defeated CPI's Probodh Panda, who had represented the constituency since 2001. Before Panda, the CPI held the Medinipur (general) seat since 1980. "Most people here are basically far-Left by ideology. We voted for TMC last time because we had to survive. Things are different now. It was literally a fight to stay alive," Mahato said. In this election, TMC has nominated Congress defector Manas Bhunia from Medinipur. He is locked in a close fight with BJP state president Dilip Ghosh. In Jhargram, TMC has fielded Beerbaha Soren and he is likely to find his match in CPI(M) candidate Deblina Hembram. "This was the time when the Left could have made its mark given the fact that there is immense anger among people against TMC. Unfortunately, it has failed. A lack of leadership and organisational structure has really harmed the Left Front," said Gurudas Ghosh, a farmer who has no qualms in admitting that he is voting for the BJP to remove Mamata Banerjee. For Manash Bera, who runs a 'paan' shop in Karnagarh in Medinipur, it's the preservation of the Left ideology that he has grown up on, which has now pushed him towards the saffron party. "The only way I can protect my ideology is by voting the BJP. Once Mamata goes, this reign of violence and intimidation will stop. I go to TMC rallies, but I will vote for BJP. However in my heart, I am Left forever," he said. The TMC candidate from Medinipur, Bhunia, however doesn't agree that people are upset with his party and says the inroads made by the BJP was because the Congress and the Left abdicated their responsibility. "The Congress and the Left have become platforms to abuse Mamata Banerjee, they have failed in their role as opposition to the BJP. They gave BJP space to grow. "The Left couldn't keep its own support base intact. BAM (Left Front) has been turned into RAM. The godowns of RAM are being supplied by BAM," said Bhuniya, who joined TMC towards the end of 2017, and is said to have taken a number of Congress workers in the area with him. BJP's Ghosh sees the saffron surge as the end of the beginning of the TMC. "I don't have to say much. Go around the villages and you will see how BJP has gained the trust of people," he said. Apoorva Bose, who works at a post-office and met this correspondent in Burisol village, a few minutes walk from the Jangalmahal Bhadutala railway station, alleged he was beaten up by Trinamool workers in the run up to the election, and vowed never to vote for the party again. "What have they done for us? The cycles they gave us were in such a shape that many refused to take them and those who did take them had to spend money on repairs. TMC workers have forced people to pay to get benefits. No one I know has got 100 days of work as promised by her (Mamata Banerjee)," he claimed. In Medinipur, a CPI(ML) leader said he understands that Left voters have nowhere to go, but he and his party are working in interior areas to resurrect the ideology. "We work in groups, meet people and assure them that we have not abdicated them. We are here to stay and we will come back," he said but refused to give his name. He said he is a physiotherapist in the city but his workplace was once in the jungles of Jhargram where he fears to go now. "We have to wait, bide time. Be patient. Now, our target is to remove Mamata. So we vote BJP as it is the only force now which can withstand Mamata. Next, we remove BJP," Mahato said, looking out of his mud house with hope. "Only the Left will rule Bengal. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A Shiv Sena MLA from Satara district has written a letter to Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, urging him not to release water from Koyna river to Karnataka, saying the stock in Koyna dam is low due to scanty rainfall last year. Koyna dam is built on the Koyna river, which originates in Satara district. It is the largest tributary of the Krishna river that flows down to Karnataka. "The inadequate showers in 2018 led to the current water stock in Koyna dam go down to 34.89 TMC, which is 4.49 TMC less as compared to 2017," Shambhuraj Desai, Sena MLA from Patan assembly segment of Satara district, wrote in the letter to the chief minister. "The Maharashtra government has already given water (to Karnataka) from Koyna dam as per the water distribution treaty. The water stock is also less as compared to last year. Therefore, the state should use the remaining stock judiciously. It should not release more water into Koyna basin for Karnataka," he added. "If we release water for Karnataka, we may not have it for our people in the coming days. The monsoon season is still more than a month away," the legislator said. Several parts of Maharashtra, including Patan tehsil, are facing water scarcity and there is a need to save water for people, he said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A dreaded gangster was Thursday arrested in connection with a 14-year-old case, in which a hotelier from Ulhasnagar in the district was shot dead, police said. The anti extortion cell (AEC) of Thane crime branch arrested the accused, Fazal Ur Rehman alias Ali Bashir Ali Shaikh (55), who was lodged in Sabarmati jail in a different case, and brought him to Thane, an official said. He was arrested for the murder of Rakesh Raman Rai alias Rakesh Shetty (39), inspector of the AEC, Rajkumar Kothmire, said. The incident had taken place late night on May 10, 2005 near Regency Park at Kalyan. The shooters had allegedly shot the victim from point blank range, he added. A few days after the incident, the police had arrested Harish Vazirani (50) and Sunil Shetty (36) in connection with the murder. "The deceased and Vazirani had a dispute over a bar, which the deceased was operating. The bar belonged to Vazirani's brother," Kothmire said. Harish Vazirani and others hatched a conspiracy to eliminate Rakesh Raman Rai. Accordingly, two sharp-shooters were hired and they shot the victim dead by firing him from point blank range, he added. Some other accused in the case are still absconding, the officer said. The offence had been registered under IPC sections 302 (murder) and others at Mahatma Phule Police station at Kalyan. Further investigation into the case is on. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Frankfurt airport was shut down for nearly an hour on Thursday morning as operators halted flights over a drone sighting, in the latest such incident affecting a busy European hub. No landings or take-offs were allowed after a drone was spotted over the southern part of the airport area in the early morning, but the all clear was given at 08:15 am (0615 GMT) at Germany's busiest airport. Police are investigating and a helicopter tried to track the remote-controlled device after the latest drone incident to disrupt flights at the airport. In March, flights were halted for half an hour at Frankfurt airport following a drone sighting, also over the southern part of the site, causing lengthy delays and the cancellation of 60 of that day's 1,439 scheduled flights. German air traffic controllers registered a total of 158 obstructions to scheduled flights caused by drones in 2018, up around 80 percent on the 2017 figure. Germany is not the only country to suffer from airborne pests. London's Gatwick airport was shut down for three days last December over drone sightings, causing holiday travel misery for tens of thousands. As a result, the British government in March brought into force a no-fly zone for drones within 5 kilometres of British airports. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Karnataka government Thursday accused the Centre of being "anti-poor", saying it did not release dues of Rs 1,697 crore under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme to the State government. The Centre had not released the dues as mandated under the Act (MNREGA), which gives rise to doubts whether it was concerned about the poor, State Minister for rural development Krishna Byre Gowda said. "This scheme is meant for the economically weaker section in the rural areas," Gowda told reporters after a cabinet meeting. Gowda lamented that the Centre was not supporting the state government in relief works. Of the Rs 1,697 crore, which is yet to come from the Centre, Rs 856 crore is pending for the past three years. He said the amount was not a grant but related to works mandated under the Act, which comprises check-dams, Anganwadi and school compound walls. The Centre's 'indifference' forced the state government to make payments in the form of loans, Gowda pointed out. He even accused the Centre of being partial, saying the Centre released Rs 4,000 crore to Maharashtra. The minister targeted certain publications for writing"negative" reports about the state government on drought relief works without knowing facts. "Some publications are repeatedly writing that the state government was not releasing the balance amount. It gives riseto questions whether you are advocating on behalf of thecentre," Gowda said. The election commission has exempted the state government from the purview of the model code of conduct for elections for carrying out drought relief works in the severe drought affected regions of the state. Subsequently, the Karnataka government Thursday took decisions pertaining to drinking water supply, job creation and fodder for animals in arid regions. As a relief measure, each drought-hit Taluk has been given an additional Rs two crore whereas Rs 324 crore has been released for drought-hit districts, Gowda said. While last year Rs 2,800 crore was given for drought relief work, this year Rs 3,600 crore action plan has been prepared and Rs 200 crore released immediately, the minister said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Eminent economists have highlighted the need for consolidation of debt by centre and states, suggesting that the governments look at fresh avenues to garner revenue, like mines auction, along with expenditure reduction. During their meeting with the 15th Finance Commission Wednesday, 12 economists also made a case for improving the quality of budgeting, such that governments should not budget for a low fiscal deficit, knowing fully well that it cannot be achieved. Since the terms of reference of the 15th Finance Commission says that the 2011 census on population would be used to determine the allocation of resources to India's states, instead of decades-old practice of taking 1971 census, the economists also suggested instituting an "incentive structure" in devolution taking into account that the proportion of elderly population is becoming significantly different across states. On the issue of state government debt, the economists said states are at vastly different stages of debt consolidation and reaching the Fiscal Responsibility and Budget Management (FRBM) targets would involve an "extremely difficult adjustment" path for a few states. "However, it is important that the union government and state governments, as a whole, to consolidate their debt position. According to some economists, expenditure adjustments alone cannot bring about the required adjustment; fresh revenue-raising efforts should also be made. Proceeds from auctioning of mines could be a potential source of revenue," the economists said during the meeting in Mumbai according to an official statement. The N K Singh panel to review the then FRBM rules had in 2017 recommended a debt-to-GDP ratio of 40 per cent for the central government and 20 per cent for combined state governments. It also suggested a glide path to bring down fiscal deficit of 2.5 per cent of GDP by 2022-23. "The quality of budgeting needs to improve. Governments should not budget for a low fiscal deficit, knowing fully well that it cannot be achieved. Projections of revenues from GST is tricky, but not impossible if one can work with the available data," the economists said. The government had missed the budgeted fiscal deficit target of 3.3 per cent in 2018-19 and revised it to 3.4 per cent. Deviating from the path laid down in the FRBM Act, the government has pegged the fiscal deficit for current financial year at 3.4 per cent of GDP, as against the original target of 3.1 per cent, largely driven by increased spending to provide income support to small farmers and tax rebates in an election year. There are indications that the fiscal deficit to gross state domestic product (GSDP) ratio of the states taken as a whole is gradually declining after the spike seen in 2015-16 and 2016-17, it added. The economists also highlighted the need to adopt a total view on the borrowing requirements of the public sector as a whole, encompassing off-budget transactions, borrowings of the public sector undertakings and contingent liabilities of both the union and state governments. "This is important from many angles, including debt sustainability, fiscal transparency and proper coordination of fiscal and monetary policies," the statement said. The economists also said that whether the increased tax devolution by the 14th Finance Commission has led to improvements in the social spending of state governments needs to be "carefully examined". "There is possibly a mismatch between the demand and supply of state development loans, which can affect the cost of borrowings of state governments in the next five years. Given the maturity profile of state loans, there can also be repayment pressure on these loans during the period of the 15th Finance Commission," the economists said. The Finance Commission is set up every five years to suggest among other things the method of devolution of central tax revenue between the centre and the states. The 15th Finance Commission, chaired by N K Singh, will make recommendations by October 2019 for five years commencing April 1, 2020. During the meeting, economists also made suggestions regarding the formula for "horizontal devolution" of central taxes among states and the provision of grant-in-aid to the state governments. "These suggestions related to weight of income distance in the devolution formula, the need to consider the quality of forests in addition to its quantity and the need to consider and incentivise human development through a system of grants or tax devolution," the economists said. Some also urged that intra-state inequality should be looked into by the commission while suggesting formula for devolution and urged it to consider reinstating the system of specific-purpose grants to ensure development of social sectors and other sectors that require hand-holding. "Finance Commission may also consider the need for achieving comparable service delivery standards across the country as its guiding principle," they said. A suggestion was also made for the Finance Commission to consider giving priority to the development of a very robust statistical system in the country in its recommendations. Economists present at the meeting were Rupa Rege Nitsure, Saugata Bhattacharya, Prachi Mishra, Samiran Chakraborty, Pranjul Bhandari, Ashu Suyash, Anjan Deb Bose, Naresh Takkar, Soumya Kanti Ghosh, Ajit Ranade, Prof. Ashima Goyal and S L Shetty. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) European powers on Thursday rejected "ultimatums" from Tehran but vowed to fight to save the Iran nuclear deal, as tensions with the US soar. Iran said it would defy some restrictions agreed under the 2015 accord and threatened to go further if Europe, China and Russia fail to deliver sanctions relief within 60 days. Tehran says it is responding to unilateral US sanctions imposed by Washington after President Donald Trump ripped up what he called a "horrible" deal, dealing a severe blow to the Iranian economy. Europe has stressed the importance of the deal -- in which Iran agreed to curb its nuclear ambitions in return for sanctions relief -- for its own security, and EU president Jean-Claude Juncker said it would be on the agenda at Thursday's summit in the Romanian town of Sibiu. EU diplomatic chief Federica Mogherini and France, Germany and Britain -- the three European signatories to the deal -- voiced "great concern" at President Hassan Rouhani's dramatic intervention. "We strongly urge Iran to continue to implement its commitments under the JCPOA in full as it has done until now and to refrain from any escalatory steps," they said in a joint statement, referring to the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action. "We reject any ultimatums and we will assess Iran's compliance on the basis of Iran's performance regarding its nuclear-related commitments under the JCPOA." Arriving at the Sibiu summit, Austrian chancellor Sebastian Kurz told reporters: "To be honest, we have a different approach than the US has. "We still think that the deal with the Iranians was a chance to bring Iran out of isolation. But of course we realise and we see that the US has a totally different approach and that is why it will stay a difficult issue." The EU statement stressed the International Atomic Energy Agency's (IAEA) role in monitoring Iran's compliance with the deal -- suggesting no concrete action is likely until the inspectors' next report at the end of May. But there are tensions within the EU, with some countries under domestic pressure to take a tougher line on Tehran, particularly after Iranian intelligence was accused over assassination plots in France, Denmark and the Netherlands. Europe and Washington have been at loggerheads over how to deal with the Islamic republic since Trump took office. In recent days, the US deployed an aircraft carrier strike group to the Gulf -- raising military tensions alongside the diplomatic discord. Trump hit back at Tehran's threats by tightening the economic screws further, slapping sanctions on the Iranian mining industry The White House, which has already taken steps to scupper Iran's oil exports -- its crucial money-maker -- said the steel and mining sector was the country's second-largest source of foreign revenue, accounting for 10 per cent of exports. "Tehran can expect further actions unless it fundamentally alters its conduct," Trump said in a statement. Since the US pullout, Europe has sought to keep Iran in the deal by trying to maintain trade via a special mechanism called INSTEX to clear payments without falling foul of American sanctions. The European statement reiterated its commitment to helping the Iranian people enjoy the benefit of sanctions relief, condemning the US reimposition. Europe is "determined to continue pursuing efforts to enable the continuation of legitimate trade with Iran" including through INSTEX. But their efforts have borne little fruit so far, with Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei dismissing them as a "bitter joke." French President Emmanuel Macron and Germany Chancellor Angela Merkel will discuss Iran with their EU colleagues at Thursday's summit called originally to start the race for the top jobs in Brussels and sketch a future without Britain. The 27 national leaders are meeting just two weeks before European Parliament elections that could usher in a new wave of populists to haunt EU decision-making. The 28th head of government, Britain's Prime Minister Theresa May, will be absent as the others discuss a five-year strategy to reinvigorate the union and argue over who should lead it. The meeting will seek to agree a "Sibiu Declaration" -- a short document with 10 overarching commitments to reform in various areas, known tongue-in-cheek by some Brussels diplomats as the "10 Commandments" for the next EU Commission. There will also be an outline "strategic agenda", prepared by EU Council president and summit host Donald Tusk, which will be discussed in more detail so that the leaders can ratify the plan at their June summit. The other main issue on the table, and which has gripped discussions in the Brussels corridors of power, is the five-yearly renewal of the top EU jobs. Immediately after the May 23 to 26 parliamentary elections, leaders will begin haggling over who gets to lead the European Commission, the bloc's executive, and the European Council, which represents national leaders. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A former government intelligence analyst has been charged with leaking classified documents about military campaigns against terrorist group al-Qaeda to a reporter. Daniel Everette Hale, 31, of Nashville, Tennessee, was arrested Thursday morning. An indictment in Alexandria, Virginia, charges him under the Espionage Act with counts including obtaining and disclosing national defense information, as well as theft of government property. According to the indictment, Hale worked as an intelligence analyst for the Air Force and later as a contractor assigned to the government's National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency. The indictment says Hale began communications with a reporter in 2013 while at the Air Force and continued communications after going to NGA. According to the indictment, Hale provided 11 Top Secret or Secret documents to the reporter and his online outlet. Those documents were later published either in whole or in part. They include a secret memo outlining a military campaign against al-Qaeda overseas, a top secret intelligence report on an al-Qaeda operative, and a secret PowerPoint slide "outlining the effects of the military campaign targeting Al-Qaeda overseas," according to the indictment. At an initial appearance Thursday afternoon in the federal courthouse in Nashville, U.S. Magistrate Judge Alistair Newbern ordered Hale released under pretrial supervision pending his next hearing, which is May 17 in Alexandria. One of Hale's attorneys - Jesselyn Radack, who specializes in representing whistleblowers - said the investigation of Hale had essentially lay dormant for five years up until Hale's arrest. She said the Trump administration is continuing and escalating what she called "a toxic trend" started under the Obama administration of aggressively prosecuting legitimate whistleblowers. "If you look at the charges, what he's accused of is classic whistleblowing," Radack said. "He contacted a reporter about a matter of extreme importance that's been shrouded in secrecy." Court papers do not identify by name the reporter who allegedly received the leaks, but details in the indictment make clear that Jeremy Scahill, a founding editor of The Intercept, is the reporter who received them. The indictment states that many of the classified documents were disclosed in an October 2015 article. On October 15, 2015, Scahill published an article on The Intercept titled "The Assassination Complex" that relies on "a cache of secret slides that provides a window into the inner workings of the U.S. military's kill/capture operations at a key time in the evolution of the drone wars." The story says the documents "were provided by a source within the intelligence community who worked on the types of operations and programs described in the slides."Scahill's book, "Dirty Wars," was published in 2013, and the indictment indicates Hale and Scahill met while Scahill was promoting the book at a Washington, D.C., bookstore. The book reported on the use of drones to attack and kill targets like al-Qaeda cleric Anwar al-Awlaki, among other things. The indictment states that Hale listed his work with drones on kill and capture operations on his resume and quotes Hale in a text message to a friend stating that Scahill "wants me to tell my story about working with drones." Betsy Reed, The Intercept's editor-in-chief, issued a statement Thursday saying they do not comment on matters related to anonymous sources. She did say the documents described in the indictment "detailed a secret, unaccountable process for targeting and killing people around the world, including U.S. citizens, through drone strikes. They are of vital public importance." She criticized the Trump administration for following the path of the Obama administration in aggressively prosecuting leaks and using "the Espionage Act to prosecute whistleblowers who enable journalists to uncover disgraceful, immoral, and unconstitutional acts committed in secret by the U.S. government." John Demers, assistant attorney general for national security, said in a statement that the indictment is the "latest step in the Department's efforts to stop the leaks of information that could damage the national security. We have brought four cases in the last two years and have secured three convictions thus far." The Eastern District of Virginia, where Hale will be prosecuted, has been a frequent location over the years for cases involving leaks and whistleblowers. Prosecutors in Alexandria have filed criminal charges against Wikileaks founder Julian Assange and against former National Security Agency contractor Edward Snowden, though both so far remain overseas despite U.S. efforts to obtain their extradition. In 2015, a judge imposed a 3.5 year sentence on former CIA officer Jeffrey Sterling, who was convicted of exposing government secrets to a New York Times reporter. In 2013, another former CIA man, John Kiriakou, was sentenced to 2.5 years in prison after pleading guilty to leaking a covert officer's identity to a reporter. Kiriakou's indictment in 2012 prompted then-CIA Director David Petraeus to issue a statement reminding his agency's employees of the need for secrecy in their work. "When we joined this organization, we swore to safeguard classified information; those oaths stay with us for life," he said at the time. In 2015, Petraeus pleaded guilty in federal court in North Carolina to a charge of unauthorized removal and retention of classified information. He was sentenced to probation. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The FBI on Thursday added Hamza bin Laden, the son of slain al-Qaeda chief Osama bin Laden, to its Seeking More Information List (SMIL), two months after the US announced a reward of up to USD 1 million for information on his whereabouts. Hamza is wanted for questioning in connection with his membership in the al-Qaeda and his public declarations threatening the security of the US. He has ties to, and may be located in, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Syria, or Iran. Described by the US as an "emerging leader" within al-Qaeda, Hamza has been classified as a "terrorist" by the US since 2017. In March, the State Department said that it would offer USD 1 million for information leading to his location in any country. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Thursday added Hamza to its Seeking More Information List (SMIL) regarding his terrorist activities. Investigators believe Hamza is married to the daughter of Al-Qaeda senior leader Abdullah Ahmed Abdullah, aka Abu Muhammad al Masri, who has been indicted for his involvement in the August 7, 1998, bombings of the US Embassies in Tanzania and Kenya. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A year after 20-year-old Trilochan Mahato was found hanging from a tree following the panchayat elections in West Bengal, it's poll season again and fear hangs heavy over the village that was his home. Sundown brings with it a sense of dread in Purulia's Supurdih village with nobody going out alone and people sleeping indoors, their doors bolted tight even in these hot summer nights. Life changed on May 31 last year, not just for the Mahato family but also for other villages in the area. That was the day Trilochan's body was found with a placard around his neck stating he was being killed because he was a BJP worker. It was just a few days after the results of the panchayat elections were declared in the volatile state, where the Lok Sabha polls are being conducted over seven phases. Two days after Trilochan's killing, another BJP worker, Dulal Kumar, was found hanging in Balarampur, about 15 km from Supurdih. The two incidents, in the aftermath of the violence in the panchayat elections in which at least 12 people were killed, grabbed national headlines. The opposition BJP accused the state's ruling Trinamool Congress of targeting its workers and said there was no law and order in the state. "Nothing has changed in the one year since Trilochan was killed, except no one goes out alone after sundown. With elections at our doorstep again, fear has pervaded our minds again," said Trilochan's brother Vivekananda ahead of the elections in Purulia on May 12. The 28-year-old said he had never heard of political strife leading to anyone being killed in Supradih or in any of the villages in Balarampur block before the death of his brother, the youngest of four siblings. "Things have, however, changed since the panchayat elections. After the death of Trilochan, we live in fear. At least 10 to 12 people from the village are always on guard outside our house. Police also comes on rounds every night," he said. Bidhnupada, another brother, said he and Vivekananda have been unable to leave the village and get back to their work because they are scared of leaving their parents in the village. "I worked in a hotel in Panaji. I returned home when I heard about Trilochan's death and have not gone back," Bishnupada, the third of the four siblings, told PTI as he stood with a group of villagers in front of a temporary bamboo shed in front of their modest mud house. It is from this shed that villagers keep round-the-clock vigil to ensure safety of the family. He earned about Rs 14,000 a month but now has to manage with the meagre earnings from their land in the village. Vivekananda, the eldest, said he worked as a security guard in Jamshedpur in neighbouring Jharkhand and earned about Rs 10,000 a month. A distraught Pana Mahato said she is yet to come to terms with the death of her son Trilochan, the only one who went to college. "He left home on that fateful evening to go to the village market to spend some time after studying for his examination the next day," she said. He never came back The villagers and police searched for him the whole night and his body was found in a forest area the next morning. A note pinned to his t-shirt had this chilling message -- "You deserve to die for doing politics and working for BJP at this young age." Claiming that the perpetrators have not been punished and those named in the FIR had not been taken to task, the family is demanding a CBI investigation into the death. Other villagers echo the demand, accusing the TMC of having a hand in the killings. At present, the state CID is investigating the death of Trilochan. At least four persons, including the son of a TMC worker, have been arrested in connection with the case. The CID is also investigating the death of Dulal. TMC's Purulia MP Mriganko Mahato vehemently denied the allegation that his party had any hand in the deaths. "This 20-25 year age group is a dangerous period in life. Young people at this age are very emotional and take critical decisions without proper thinking," said Mriganko Mahato, a doctor by profession, indicating that the deaths of Trilochan and Dulal could be suicides. "All those who died are not big leaders. It's not that these deaths will lead to any mileage for anybody," he told PTI, adding that all deaths are unfortunate but have nothing to do with politics. The TMC MP said Purulia does not have a history of political violence. However, just last month, on April 19, another BJP worker, 22-year-old Sishupal Sahis was found hanging from a tree at Senabona village in the district. Has violence come to stay in Purulia, part of a state where clashes have long underscored bitterly fought elections? As villagers get ready to vote again on Sunday, they sincerely hope the answer is no. The BJP has fielded Jyotirmoy Singh Mahato, who met Pana Mahato at their village and took her blessings. Left Front constituent All India Forward Bloc, which held the seat from 1977 to 2014 before losing to TMC in the last general elections, has fielded four-time MP Bir Singh Mahato. The Congress candidate is Nepal Mahato. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) China on Thursday said it is "fed up" of the US' constant criticism of its trillion dollar Belt and Road Initiative, as it claimed that over 150 countries have extended their "vote of support and confidence" for the ambitious project. The US has been extremely critical of the BRI. The Trump administration has recently stepped up criticism against the mega initiative, cautioning countries around the world about the "predatory financing" of the project aimed at enhancing China's global influence by financing and building huge infrastructure projects. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has made scathing criticism of the BRI during his recent tours to the UK and Finland. During his visit to Britain, he reportedly said the BRI had undermined sovereignty of the countries and asked the UK government to be vigilant about it. Reacting to Pompeo's remarks, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang told a media briefing that despite US criticism, over 6,000 officials representing over 150 countries and 92 international organisations attended the 2nd BRF forum held in Beijing from April 25 to April 27. Such a huge attendance highlighted the success of the BRI, he said, adding that over 20 participants from America also attended the event, which was boycotted by the US and India. Geng said the participation of so many countries in the event reflected the "vote of support and confidence" reposed by the international community on the BRI and is a "best reply to what the US has said and done". "Certain people in the US have again played on the same old theme and slandered the BRI. We are fed up with that...I want remind them that they should not overestimate their capability to cook up the story and spread it around and do not understate others judgement," Geng said. On Monday, addressing reporters travelling with him in Finland, Pompeo said China is using its government power through the BRI to achieve its national security objective. He said the Trump administration is leading global efforts to inform countries about the "predatory" Chinese economics. Noting that the US has a huge economic interest in China's success and vice versa, Pompeo said the BRI needs to be transparent. "It's got to be on a free and open basis. It can't be with the idea that you're going to loan a country money and then foreclose on that facility so that you can then build yourself a port or take that land and real estate. That's not appropriate. We have discouraged that. We have educated other countries around the world on that set of issues," he said. India has been boycotting the BRI to protest over the USD 60 billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) being laid through the Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. The CPEC, which connects Gwadar Port in Pakistan's Balochistan with China's Xinjiang province, is the flagship project of the BRI. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Farmers in Rajkot district of Gujarat have complained that a state PSU's 50 kg Di-ammonium Phosphate (DAP) fertilizer bags were short of the disclosed weight by around 400 grams, prompting the company to order a probe. Gujarat State Fertilizers and Chemicals Ltd (GSFC) has ordered the probe after receiving complaints in this regard from some farmers in Rajkot district. The state-run company termed it as a "stray" incident, but a local farmer leader called it a "huge scam". The issue came to fore Thursday when some farmers conducted a reality check at GSFC's fertilizer distribution depot in Jetpur town. When more complaints started pouring in, GSFC issued a statement, saying they will conduct an "internal enquiry" to find out how this happened. "A shortage of up to 400 grams was found in few fertilizer bags sold from GSFC's Jetpur depot. GSFC dispatches fertilizer bags with proper weight, which is done on the automatic weighing machines. "However, an internal enquiry is set up for ascertaining the reasons of shortage found in a few bags sold from depots," the statement said. After the controversy over the weight of the 'Sardar DAP' fertilizer bags, GSFC has made immediate arrangements for the "installation of weighing machines at each depot so that farmers can procure fertilizers after ensuring weight of the bags," the statement said. "GSFC regrets some stray incident of shortage like this, but will always standby the interest of farmers by providing quality fertilizers," it added. The issue came to the fore when Ketan Bhuva, a farmer from Jetpur, reached the GSFC depot with a complaint that some of the DAP bags he had purchased, each having printed net weight of 50kgs, were short weight to the tune of 400 to 700 grams. A local farmer leader, Chetan Gadhia, along other cultivators then reached the depot in Jetur and started weighing bags kept at the centre in the presence of media. "Out of the 40 bags Bhuva had purchased, 10 were found to be short weight to the tune of 400 to 700 grams. Many bags kept at the depot were also having less than the printed weight of 50 kgs. "This is a huge scam. Farmers in Gujarat buy over 20 lakh DAP bags and the shortage in each bag is worth Rs 14 to Rs 40," said Gadhia. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The first brown bear sighting in Portugal in more than a century was confirmed by wildlife experts on Thursday, after reports of an animal in the northeast of the country. The bear, which most likely belongs to a population living in the western Cantabrian Mountains in northern Spain, is thought to have wandered across the border. "The reappearance of individuals from this species in Portugal... has now been confirmed by the ICNF," the Portuguese Institute for Conservation of Nature and Forests (ICNF) said. Brown bears have been extinct in Portugal since the 19th century. "The last reports of a stable presence of brown bears in Portugal are between the 18th and the end of the 19th century. They then died out," the ICNF said. The animal was spotted in the Montesinho Natural Park and Braganca commune in northeastern Portugal. The town of Bragance is about 20 kilometres (12 miles) from the Spanish border. Media reports say the last living bear in Portugal was killed in 1843 in the northwest mountainous region of Geres. "The fact that a bear has crossed our border does not mean that there is a bear established in Portugal. At the moment we have a stray animal," said Paulo Caetano, an author of a book on bears, on Portuguese radio. The animal is probably a young male looking for "a peaceful territory, a companion and food," he said. The bear population in the Cantabrian mountain range, which extends east to west over four Spanish regions, has been increasing since the 1989 adoption of a relocation plan. In 2018, some 330 bears were counted in the mountains there, according to the environmentalist foundation Oso Pardo. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Can winning candidates polling 15 per cent of the votes, 12 per cent or even less be called true representatives of the people of their constituencies? It may sound like an anomaly but that is the reality of the first-past-the-post system. Constitutional experts and former chief election commissioners feel the system may not give true representation to the people but it is the most practical in the Indian context given the large number of voters and limited resources. Under the first-past-the-post system, a candidate only needs to get more votes than any other candidate to win a seat. Constitutional expert Subhash Kashyap said "so-called representatives" of the people sometimes "do not represent the people at all" under the system. "About 70 per cent of all Lok Sabha members and members of state assembly are elected by a minority of votes," he told PTI. "There have been instances when people getting 12 per cent, 15 per cent votes, have been elected and become occupants of higher posts," Kashyap said. The system has been debated and deliberated for long, particularly after the BJP got a thumping mandate of 282 of 543 Lok Sabha seats in 2014 with a vote percentage of a little more than 31 per cent. It was after three decades that a single party had won a clear mandate. Asked if India could explore the possibility of systems such as ranked choice voting prevalent in developed countries such as Australia, Kashyap said India needs its own solution and a system that is specific to it. He said the National Commission to Review the Working of the Constitution (NCRWC) recommended in its 2002 report that a runoff could be held the next morning between the top two candidates if no candidate gets more than 50 per cent. "It is entirely feasible. We had spoken to the then election commissioner also. Now with electronic voting we could know who has got elected in the evening and next morning repolling can be held....the NCRWC report was considered with several recommendations accepted, but first-past-the-post system was maintained," he said. The first-past-the-post voting system for election to national legislatures is prevalent in places such as the UK, the US, Canada, Bangladesh and Bhutan. V S Sampath, who was the chief election commissioner during the 2014 Lok Sabha polls, said the first-past-the-post system is the "best option among the available options". "Conducting one round of election, we are putting the country in election mode for 75 days. Having runoffs will prolong the process. It will become cumbersome. Country should have stability," he told PTI. Syed Nasim Ahmad Zaidi, who was chief election commissioner from April 2015-July 2017, said all sections of the society are not represented under the first-past-the-post system as a large number of votes get divided and the percentage has come down. After independence, the vote share used to be 50 per cent and has now come down to a mere 15 per cent. "The winner takes it all," he said. Moving to an alternative ranking system will require detailed evaluation and debates to decide the pros and cons of it before it could be implemented, he said. Former Lok Sabha secretary general P D T Acharya also believes the first-past-the-post system may not give candidates that truly represent the people, but it is the most practical in the Indian context. "In certain cases even with 10 per cent votes people have won. Most candidates don't get more than 50 per cent votes. From that point of view, this system is faulty. The point is that there are other systems such as the list system. But every system has its own merits and demerits," he said. The first-past-the-post system is not a perfect system but should be continued with improvements to make it more representative, he added. Jawaharlal Nehru University professor Kamal Mitra Chinoy also hailed the first-past-the-post system, saying it has improved over time. "This system is applicable because these are heavily populated regions and it rarely happens that a candidate wins by a vote share of less than 20 per cent until people are boycotting and that is a very rare case," he said. AAP leader Atishi said the first-past-the-post system has many flaws which need to be improved over time, but it is a big country and it would be difficult to switch to a different system right now. She gave the example of the 2013 assembly elections in which AAP won 28 seats but lost by narrow margins on many seats in the 70-member House. She said the similarity of party's election symbol 'broom' and 'torch', given to some "dummy" independent candidates, was also another reason for the loss. If some other system was in place, AAP would have had a majority, she claimed. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Border Security Force (BSF) Thursday arrested a former soldier of the Pakistan Army along the International Border (IB) in Jammu and Kashmir's Samba district, officials said. The alert troops of the BSF observed some movement along IB near a forward area and nabbed a person moving under suspicious circumstances, they said. During preliminary investigation, he was identified as Mohmmad Afzal of Shakergarh district of Pakistan. The security personnel recovered two mobile phones and a data card from him, they said. He has been handed over to police for further interrogation, they said, adding that he is likely to be sent to the join interrogation centre. Afzal told the interrogators that he left the Pakistan Army after serving for about nine years, officials said. He is reported to have worked with the Special Service Group of the Pakistan Army. The police are investigating to ascertain the motive behind his crossing the International Border, officials added. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Four males were arrested under terrorism laws on Thursday in connection with the killing of journalist Lyra McKee in Londonderry last month, Northern Ireland's police force said. McKee, 29, was shot in the head during a riot in the second largest city in the British province on 18 April. The act of violence has since been claimed by dissident republican group the New IRA. "Detectives carried out searches at four houses in the city and arrested four people in connection with the violence which was orchestrated on the streets of Creggan on the evening of Lyra McKee's murder," said Police Service of Northern Ireland senior detective Jason Murphy. The four arrested, aged 15, 18, 38 and 51, are being held and questioned in Belfast, police added. The New IRA has apologised over the killing, saying McKee was unintentionally shot as its forces targeted a night-time police raid. A splinter dissident faction, the New IRA seeks the integration of British-ruled Northern Ireland with Ireland -- rejecting non-violent political campaigns to achieve unity. McKee established her career writing about so-called "ceasefire babies" -- the generation that came of age after the 1998 Good Friday Agreement, which ended the conflict known as "The Troubles". Her killing evoked memories of those three decades of violence in the province and sparked condemnation across the political spectrum, including in the neighbouring Republic of Ireland. Three people -- two men aged 18 and 19 and a 57-year-old woman -- so far arrested by Northern Irish police in connection with McKee's killing were all released without charge. Her death follows a recent spate of letter bombings and a car bombing, without fatalities, also claimed by the New IRA. The tempo of fresh attacks has fuelled fears that the political turbulence over Brexit -- which threatens new border checkpoints on the Irish border -- may increase paramilitary activity. McKee's death has prompted a fresh round of negotiations at Stormont, Northern Ireland's devolved government, which has been suspended in political deadlock since January 2017. "Lyra symbolised the new Northern Ireland and her tragic death cannot be in vain," said British secretary of state for Northern Ireland Karen Bradley, announcing the talks last month. The talks began on Tuesday, with parties promising to negotiate in good faith. McKee's killing also sparked a community backlash against fringe republican paramilitary groups, which regard Londonderry as a historic stronghold. Murals glorifying the armed republican campaign which wound down after the 1998 peace accord were defaced. Meanwhile, friends of the murdered reporter painted blood-red handprints on the headquarters of a political group regarded as the mouthpiece of the New IRA. However, signs appeared last week in the area where McKee was killed warning: "Informers will be shot". (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The number of overnight stays in hotels in France slumped in the first quarter, especially in Paris, the national statistics office said Thursday, blaming the nationwide "yellow vest" protest movement for putting off foreign tourists. In the first three months of 2019, the number of overnight stays in tourist accommodations in France fell 2.5 per cent from the same period the year earlier, statistics office INSEE said. Visits by foreigners fell the most dramatically, with 4.8 percent fewer overnight stays by non-residents recorded in the period. The Ile-de-France region which encompasses Paris posted the sharpest declines, with the number of overnight stays dropping 4.6 percent. This was "probably due to the movement of the yellow vests," Insee said. Since November last year, protesters wearing their high-visibility yellow vests have staged angry protests accusing President Emmanuel Macron and his government of failing to solve France's inequality problems. The biggest demonstrations have been in Paris but there have also been protests in other big cities. Usually held on Saturdays, the rallies have often degenerated into fiery clashes between demonstrators and police, with dramatic images beamed around the world. Insee said by contrast that hotel occupancy increased almost five percent in coastal areas as French residents took advantage of dry and warm weather since the beginning of the year. It noted that the overall decline in hotel occupancy in the first quarter "followed more than two years of steady growth" and a 2.0 percent year-on-year rise in the previous quarter. France, which boasts not just the magnificent historic centre of Paris but also countless other attractions nationwide, is visited by more foreign tourists annually than any other nation. The number of foreign tourists visiting annually has been approaching 90 million in recent years, despite a spate of attacks carried out by Islamist militants. But the effects of the yellow vest movement on tourism had already been seen in the final months of 2018. Another blow came from last month's devastating fire at the Notre Dame cathedral in Paris, which is expected to keep the world heritage landmark and tourism magnet closed to visitors for several years. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) : Smuggled gold weighing 3.329 kg and worth over Rs 1 crore has been seizedat the international airport here from two passengers, who allegedly hid the yellow metal in their rectum, Customs officials said Thursday. According to the officials, two passengers, who arrived from Dubai on Wednesday, were intercepted by Customs personnel and after verification the gold in paste form (gross weight 3,951 grams) which they had concealed in their rectum was recovered. The 3.329 kg gold was valued at Rs 1.09 crore, they said adding cases were registered and the passengers were questioned. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) will never sell any personal information of its users to third parties, CEO Sundar Pichai has said, amidst growing global concern over the misuse of personal data by some social media giants. In an opinion piece in The New York Times published on Tuesday, he also said that privacy cannot be a "luxury good" that is only available to people who can afford to buy premium products and services. The 46-year-old Indian-origin CEO of said he believed that privacy was "one of the most important topics of our time." People today are rightly concerned about how their information is used and shared, yet they all define privacy in their own ways, he said. "To make privacy real, we give you clear, meaningful choices around your data. All while staying true to two unequivocal policies: that will never sell any personal information to third parties; and that you get to decide how your information is used," Pichai said. Pichai said he has seen this first-hand as he talked to people in different parts of the world. "To the families using the internet through a shared device, privacy might mean privacy from one another. To the small-business owner who wants to start accepting credit card payments, privacy means keeping customer data secure. To the teenager sharing selfies, privacy could mean the ability to delete that data in the future," Pichai said. He noted that privacy was personal, which makes it even more vital for companies to give people clear, individual choices around how their data is used. He said legislation will help companies like Google to work toward ensuring that privacy protections are available to more people around the world. "But we're not waiting for it. We have a responsibility to lead. And we'll do so in the same spirit we always have, by offering products that make privacy a reality for everyone," Pichai said. Ideally, privacy legislation would require all businesses to accept responsibility for the impact of their data processing in a way that creates consistent and universal protections for individuals and society as a whole, he said. He said Google has worked hard to continually earn people's trust by providing accurate answers and keeping their questions private. "We've stayed focused on the products and features that make privacy a reality for everyone," he said in the opinion piece. "For everyone" is a core philosophy for Google; it's built into our mission to create products that are universally accessible and useful. That's why Search works the same for everyone, whether you're a professor at Harvard or a student in rural Indonesia," he said. "Our mission compels us to take the same approach to privacy. For us, that means privacy cannot be a luxury good offered only to people who can afford to buy premium products and services. Privacy must be equally available to everyone in the world," Pichai underlined. He noted that even in cases where Google offered a paid product like YouTube Premium, which includes an ads-free experience, the regular version of YouTube has plenty of privacy controls built in. Pichai recalled that last week, Google announced significant new privacy features, including one-click access to privacy settings from all its major products and auto-delete controls that allows one to choose how long the person want data to be saved. "And to protect your data from security threats, we just introduced a security key built into Android phones that can provide two-factor authentication," he said. In the future, Aritificial Intelligence (AI) will provide even more ways to make products more helpful with less data. With increased spending on digital advertising, Google and Facebook have become forces to reckon with as millions of users, especially from emerging markets like India, go online. But multiple instances of data breaches and user information leaks have brought increased scrutiny on many platforms from regulators and governments across the globe. These companies are now walking a tightrope as they attempt to balance user privacy with increased accountability as governments seek greater disclosures and controls over digital platforms. A Dalit man's act of riding a horse on the occasion of his wedding resulted in the social boycott of the Schedule Caste (SC) community at a village in Mehsana district of Gujarat, police said on Thursday. The upper caste members of Lhor village in Kadi taluka were allegedly unhappy with the groom's move of riding the horse, the incident which occurred on Tuesday, police said. Village sarpanch Vinuji Thakor, along with some other village leaders, had issued a diktat asking the villagers to boycott the Dalit community members, police said, adding that Thakor was arrested in this connection on Thursday. "On May 7, a wedding procession of one Mehul Parmar passed through the village. Since Parmar is a Dalit, some village leaders raised objections and asked the members of the community not to cross the limits," Deputy Superintendent of Police, Manjita Vanzara, said. "Next day, some prominent villagers announced a social boycott of Dalits. A penalty of Rs 5,000 was also announced on those who talk to the members of the community or carry out any kind of transactions with them," Vanzara, who reached the village after getting a call from Dalit villagers on Thursday, said. She added that apart from the arrest of village sarpanch, Vinuji Thakor, cases were registered against four others under relevant sections of the SC/ST Prevention of Atrocities Act. Talking to reporters, Mehul Parmar said that following the call for boycott, shopkeepers even refused to sell milk or other essential grocery items. "Some villagers asked me not to take out a procession while I was riding a horse. We then sought police's help after we learned about the social boycott today morning. No one even gave us milk in the morning to make tea," he said. Another member of the community, Vandana Parmar, said that out of fear, autorickshaw drivers from the village even refused to ferry them. "Villagers were angry because a Dalit groom rode a horse during the wedding procession. We were told that Dalits do not have a right to do so. Due to the boycott, no villager is ready to provide milk, water or food items to us. Even auto drivers denied us ride till nearby Kadi town," she said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Madras High Court on Thursday issued notice to the Tamil Nadu government on a petition seeking constitution of a team of doctors and senior police officials among others to probe the death of five patients at a government hospital here. It also directed the state government to provide fair compensation to the families of those who died at Government Rajaji Hospital Wednesday allegedly after the ventilator support system collapsed due to power outage. When the petition by A Veronica Mary, an activist, came up, a division bench of justices R Swaminathan and M Dhandapani issued notice to the state government, directing it to file a report on its stand on the demand for probe. The bench also asked the government to file a report on forming a panel to upgrade infrastructure in all government hospitals across the state. The court said both the reports should be submitted on May 29. The petitioner sought a direction to set up a team comprising bio-medical engineers, doctors from AIIMS, professors from IIT, and senior police officials to conduct an investigation into the death of five patients. She also demanded that a team of electrical engineers be formed to inspect all government hospitals and ensure supply of uninterrupted power to the hospitals. She also claimed that the hospital administration had Rs 25 crore at its disposal, from the chief minister's fund for comprehensive health insurance scheme, but it had failed to utilise it towards maintenance and upgradation of the life- saving infrastructure. Disruption in power supply allegedly left five patients on life support dead at GRH here Wednesday. However, hospital authorities said the patients, who were in the ICU, died of natural causes and that it was a sheer coincidence that electricity supply was disrupted at that time. Relatives of the deceased have alleged the ventilators were not working properly. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Oscar winner Hilary Swank will be starring in Netflix's upcoming space drama series "Away". The 44-year-old actor will play Emma Green, an American astronaut who must leave her husband and teenage daughter behind to command an international space crew embarking upon a treacherous mission. Jessica Goldberg will serve as showrunner and writer for the 10-episode series, the streaming giant said in a statement. Ed Zwick will direct the first episode which will be penned by Andrew Hinderaker. The series, which hails from Universal Television, True Jack Productions, and 6th & Idaho, will be executive produced by Goldberg, Zwick, Hinderaker, Matt Reeves, Adam Kassan, Michelle Lee and Jeni Mulein. Jason Katims will also serve as writer and executive producer. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) US authorities have denied permits and forced the cancellation of the "Hugs not walls" event which since 2016 has allowed families separated by illegal migration to reunite for a few minutes on the border with Mexico, organizers said. Some 150 families had already registered to take part in the seventh "Abrazos No muros" meeting, scheduled for Saturday on the border between Mexico's Ciudad Juarez and the US city of El Paso in Texas. "(US) border agencies and institutions created all possible obstacles and invented all possible pretexts to prevent this important and historic family reunion on the border," organisers the Border Network for Human Rights (RFDH) said in a statement Wednesday. "Everyone clearly followed the xenophobic script of (US President Donald) Trump," it added, noting that both the police and the US Border Patrol had hampered the initiative. RFDH director Fernando Garcia regretted the cancellation of the event, which he said since 2016 has brought together members of 1,500 families from various areas of the US, Mexico and Central America. "Today, in this America, led by this administration, a family hug and a fraternal embrace represent 'a threat to national security.' This is beyond irrational," Garcia said. Armando Bustamante, 24, who lives in Ciudad Juarez, had expected to embrace his mother, who has lived in El Paso for nine years as an undocumented immigrant, and celebrate Mother's Day, which is marked on Friday in Mexico and Sunday in the US. The student said he had been able to hug his mother twice since he began taking part in the event. "It's a pity that I'll have to wait for another event to take place and in that way be able to see my mother...even if it was just for a couple of minutes," Bustamante told AFP, hoping that US authorities would authorize another date for the event. In recent months, thousands of migrants have arrived in Mexico, primarily Central Americans fleeing poverty and violence at home. President Trump has described them as a threat to national security, demanding billions of dollars from Congress to build a wall on the southern border. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Former Himachal Pradesh chief minister and veteran Congress leader Virbhadra Singh Thursday said he "respected" Narendra Modi but he will not be the country's prime minister for "eternity". The statement comes in the backdrop of the Congress mounting attack on Modi for his remarks on former prime minister Rajiv Gandhi. "Modi was the Chief Minister of Gujarat when I was the Union Minister in Delhi, I respect him," Virbhadra Singh said at a poll rally here in support of the Congress candidate from Shimla parliamentary constituency Dhaniram Shandil. "Modi has not been made the PM for eternity, he is changeable after five years," he added. Modi, at a rally here on Wednesday, accused the Gandhi family of using warship INS Viraat as its "personal taxi" for a holiday when Rajiv Gandhi was at the helm, launching a fresh attack on the late Congress leader days after throwing the "bhrashtachari no 1" barb at him. Slamming those who "desert" the party for selfish gains, the senior Congress leader launched a veiled attack on former party leader Sukh Ram who recently rejoined the Congress. You should never desert the party for your selfish motives. Do not become 'Aya Ram Gaya Ram' and remain faithful soldiers of the Congress party in all conditions, the former chief minister told the crowd. Sukh Ram, the former telecom minister in the Congress government, along with his son and sitting MLA from Mandi Anil Sharma and grandson Aashray Sharma had joined the BJP ahead of the 2017 assembly polls accusing Virbhadra Singh of sidelining them. Aashray Sharma was seeking to contest from Mandi parliamentary seat on a BJP ticket, however, the saffron party renominated its sitting MP Ramswaroop Sharma. A miffed Sukh Ram along with his grandson then switched to the Congress. Anil Sharma quit the Jai Ram Thakur Cabinet in Himachal Pradesh, days after the Congress named Aashray Sharma as its candidate from Mandi Lok Sabha segment. Virbhadra Singh further alleged that Thakur has "no control" over the state's bureaucracy due to which people are facing numerous problems. The government is not working as per the aspirations of common people of Himachal Pradesh, Virbhadra Singh alleged. He detailed several development projects of Sirmour district which were completed or initiated during his tenure as the chief minister and reaffirmed his commitment for the development of the district. He appealed people to vote for Congress, for the development of the area. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The elevation of Maryam Nawaz as a vice president of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz was on Thursday challenged by the ruling Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party led by Prime Minister Imran Khan, saying her appointment violated the country's Constitution. Maryam is the politically savvy daughter of three-time former prime minister Nawaz Sharif, who is now in jail after being convicted in a corruption case. Sharif's younger brother and PML-N President Shahbaz Sharif last week approved major changes to the party's structure, including Maryam's appointment as one of the 16 vice presidents of the party. Four PTI lawmakers, Farrukh Habib, Maleeka Ali Bokhari, Kanwal Shauzab and Javeria Zafar Thursday submitted a formal petition to the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) against the recent appointment of Maryam as a Vice President of the PML-N, Dawn newspaper reported. "Maryam Nawaz has been declared disqualified for any political or public office," the PTI claimed in the petition. According to the plea, 45-year-old Maryam's appointment to a senior post in the PML-N went against the law and the Constitution. It also covered the legal basis under which Maryam is ineligible to hold public office and includes a detailed mention of the court decisions on the 2016 Panama Papers scandal. In July 2018, an accountability court announced the verdict in the Avenfield properties corruption case, sentencing Maryam to seven years for abetment after she was found "instrumental in concealment of the properties of her father" and one year for non-cooperation with the National Accountability Bureau (NAB). She was also disqualified from contesting polls after being convicted. The Sharif family has rejected all corruption charges and said the cases against them were politically motivated. In January this year, the Supreme Court upheld an Islamabad High Court verdict that had ordered the suspension of prison sentences awarded to Maryam and her father, Sharif. But the petition submitted to the ECP said that an accountability court "declared the PML-N leader to be ineligible for public office" and added that a party position is not in private capacity. It stated that political parties have an influence on the entire political system and claimed that in the void of a party president, Maryam will use the elected president's authority. It pointed out that the apex court had disqualified her father, Sharif, from his party position as well and said that the ECP should declare her appointment to be null and void. The "Panama 'rani' cannot keep the position of the vice president," PTI lawmaker Habib said. Another lawmaker Shauzab said no one would be allowed to violate the Constitution. Following Maryam's appointment, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Information and Broadcasting Firdous Ashiq Awan had termed it as illegal and said it portrayed the dictatorial mindset of that [PML-N] party. Maryam and Shehbaz Sharif's son Hamza Shehbaz were appointed as vice presidents of the party last week. Other key positions were allocated to people regarded close to former premier Nawaz Sharif, the Express Tribune reported. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) India and China Thursday signed a protocol for export of Indian chilli meal to the neighbouring country, the commerce ministry said. It was signed after a meeting of Commerce Secretary Anup Wadhawan and General Administration of Customs of China (GACC) Vice Minister Li Guo here. Both the sides "discussed trade-related issues of pending Indian request for clearance of agricultural products". "At the end of the meeting, a protocol was signed for export of chilli meal from India to China," the ministry said in a statement. Both the sides also agreed to resolve market access issues expeditiously in order to achieve the vision of the leaders of both India and China by promoting a more balanced trade. The meeting assumes significance as India is seeking greater market access for its manufactured and agricultural products in the Chinese market to bridge the widening trade deficit. Recently, India has identified and shared with China a list of 380 products, including horticulture, textiles, chemicals and pharmaceutical products, as their shipments hold huge export potential. Increasing exports of these products will help India narrow the widening trade deficit with China, which stood at USD 50.12 billion during April-February 2018-19. Indian exporters face certain non-tariff barriers in the Chinese market that are restricting exports. Commenting on India-China trade, Mohit Singla, chairman of Trade Promotion Council of India, said that India will see enhanced trade in non-basmati rice, mango pulp, sesame seed and tea along with soybean, rapeseed and fish oil owing to strong government intervention and strategic efforts. "The industry is eagerly awaiting the market access to meat sector and enhanced cooperation in the marine products," he said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) India is committed to building its cooperative relationship with Vietnam in diverse fields, Vice President Venkaiah Naidu said Thursday, pointing that agricultural growth has been a key driver in the remarkable progress achieved by the South East Asian country. In his first engagement after arriving here on a four-day visit, Naidu addressed the Indian community in the country, highlighting their role and importance in promoting cultural understanding and harmony between India and Vietnam. Describing the ties between India and Vietnam as civilisational and historic, the vice president said, Our partnership has stood the test of time. More than 2000 years ago, Indian monks and traders brought with them the message of peace and compassion of Lord Buddha to Vietnam." Naidu said that successive generations of leaders from Ho Chi Minh and Mahatma Gandhi to the current leaders have built upon this trust and goodwill. Referring to the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two countries, Naidu stated that India is committed to building its cooperative relationship with Vietnam in diverse fields. "Over the years, Vietnam has been successful in making huge socio-economic advances. Sustained high levels of economic growth, combined with vision and foresight of its leadership, has ensured rapid progress, development and prosperity," he said. Pointing out that agricultural growth has been a key driver in the remarkable progress achieved by Vietnam, he said India was privileged as a development partner to have contributed to Vietnam's agricultural revolution and food security. He said that an Archaeological Survey of India team has been working in Vietnam for the past three years for the conservation and restoration of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of MySon in Vietnam. Expressing his satisfaction over the doubling of the trade between the two nations from USD 7.8 billion in 2016 to nearly USD 14 billion last year, he said both the nations must come together with pride and purpose and help each other grow and prosper. Referring to India's growth story, the Vice President said that an ambitious and transformative vision was making India one of the most favorite investment destinations in the world. India has become the fastest growing large economy in the world. We will be a USD 5 trillion economy by 2030, he added and gave a detailed overview of the progress achieved in various sectors. The vice president said the Indian community in Vietnam, though small in number, has numerous achievements to its credit and was well respected. He said Indians and Indian business and industry in Vietnam have been instrumental in promoting bilateral understanding and creating opportunities for the local economy and society. He urged the Indian diaspora to contribute and join in the development agenda back home. Describing Indians living abroad as our cultural ambassadors, he told them continue to cherish their Indian roots and rich cultural traditions and at the same time nourish the socio-economic and cultural life of Vietnam. During the visit, Naidu will hold meetings with Vice-President of Vietnam Dang Thi Ngoc Thinh, Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc and Chairperson of National Assembly of Vietnam Nguyen Thi Kim Ngan. On May 12, Naidu will also participate in the 16th UN Day of Vesak, considered sacred to Buddhists, at Tam Chuc Pagoda in Ha Nam Province and deliver the keynote address at the inaugural of the event. Ahead of the visit, the Ministry of External Affairs in a statement said India-Vietnam relations have been built on a firm foundation of close cultural, historical and civilisational links and are marked by mutual trust and understanding as well as strong cooperation in regional and international fora. During the visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Vietnam in September 2016, the relationship between the two countries was elevated to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, the statement said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Indian Navy on Thursday participated with the navies of the US, the Philippines and Japan in their first joint naval exercise in the disputed South China Sea, where China is flexing its muscle. The vessels included Indian destroyer INS Kolkata and tanker INS Shakti, a guided missile destroyer from the US Pacific Fleet, Japanese aircraft carrier Izumo and the Philippines patrol vessel Andres Bonifacio, the US Navy said in a statement. "Our team was really excited to take part in this multi-lateral event," Commander Andrew J Klug, commanding officer, USS William P Lawrence, said. "Professional engagements with our allies, partners and friends in the region are opportunities to build upon our existing, strong relationships, as well as learn from each other," Klug said. The ships conducted formation exercises, communication drills, passenger transfers and held a leadership exchange aboard JS Izumo. The six vessels gathered "to train together and promote maritime cooperation throughout a free and open Indo-Pacific," the Navy said in the statement. "Our bond of friendship with our regional partners is as strong as our commitment to maintain peace and stability in the region," Captain Jerry Y Garrido Jr., commanding officer, BRP Andres Bonifacio, said. Meanwhile, the Indian Navy tweeted about the drills and posted pictures of the warships that participated in the six-day group sail. "#IndianNavy ships Kolkata & Shakti carry out Group Sail with Naval ships of @JMSDF_PAO, Philippines & @USNavy in the South China Sea from 03 - 09 May 19. The six-day long Group Sail had participation of six combatants from the four participating countries," the Spokesperson of the Indian Navy tweeted. "Besides Kolkata & Shakti, Helicopter Carrier JMSDF Izumo & Guided Missile Destroyer JMSDF Murasame of Japan; Frigate BRP Andres Bonifacio of Philippines and Arleigh Burke Class Destroyer USS Williams P Lawrence of USA participated," it tweeted. The combined show of naval might comes at a time of heightened tensions in the trade war between China and the US - the two world powers locked in a tussle for the commercial control of South China Sea, which serves as a passage for annual trade worth USD 3.5 trillion. China claims almost all of the strategic South China Sea with Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan and Vietnam pushing competing claims to parts of the resource-rich maritime region. The United States, Japan and India do not have any territorial claims there. Islands in the South China Sea - is an area which accounts for 12 per cent of global fishing and through which 30 per cent of the world's trade passes, apart from housing possible oil and gas reserve. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) India has called on the UK government to look into some tax and visa norms that make it difficult for Indian professionals and students to fully contribute to the bilateral relationship. At the Conservative Friends of India (CFIN) annual dinner in London on Wednesday evening, Indian High Commissioner to the UK Ruchi Ghanashyam urged UK Home Secretary Sajid Javid to look into regulations around compulsory tax contributions required from Indian professionals who come to the UK only for a short period, resulting in a loss of millions of pounds. Referring to some latest figures from Grant Thornton's 'India Meet Britain Tracker 2019', the Indian envoy pointed to an increase in the number of Indian companies operating in the UK over the previous year to 842 in 2019. It shows the confidence that Indian business has in the UK and the positive momentum that they keep on adding to the India-UK economic relations. Here, I want to draw attention to the National Insurance (NI) exemption which for Indian nationals is 52 weeks, while for some other countries it can be three to five years, she said. NI is a form of contributory tax paid by UK residents, eventually ensuring access to a state-funded pension in later life. However, the envoy pointed out that the minimum period of NI contribution to gain entitlement to a state pension is 10 years, which an Indian employee on a limited-period Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) visa is unable to take advantage of. This effectively means forfeiting the entire amount paid in. An estimate puts this loss of contribution to approximately 230 million pounds for the employer and 200 million pounds for the employee, she said. The other issue she raised was the falling number of Indian students choosing UK universities for higher education and urged the British government to take steps to encourage those figures as students are a "great source of strength" to the bilateral relationship. There are some issues because the number of students coming to the UK from India has been falling. Last year, there was a bit of an increase because the figure reached more than 19,500 but it is still way below the 40,890 in 2010-11, she noted. Ghanashyam spoke of the strong India-UK partnership, most recently demonstrated in the blacklisting of Pakistan-based JeM chief Masood Azhar by the UN in which the UK "took the lead", but said she had also sought the permission of the minister to raise some of the issues. Now that I have the chance, I think I would not be a good ambassador of my country if I were not to mention themThese are not big issues as such because there are a lot of positive developments happening and it is not my intention to appear to be cribbing about anything. But just to draw attention, she said. Javed, who was the chief guest at the CFIN event, in return welcomed her as only the second female Indian High Commissioner to the UK, after Vijaya Lakshmi Pandit, and also her frank remarks as he pledged to work alongside her on some of the issues. Last year, the number of Indian students choosing to come to the UK went up by 35 per cent, the biggest annual increase in over a decade. And, the UK already issues more skilled worker visas to Indian nationals than to the rest of the world combined, said Javed, the first Pakistani-origin minister in the UK Cabinet. "The new (post-Brexit) immigration system will be a skills-based system, which means it will not be based on nationality. It means that we will be even more open once we have left the EU (European Union) to welcome even more of India's brightest and best, he said. The minister referred to British Indian businessman Rami Ranger, the co-chair of CFIN, as a "success story" as he highlighted the contributions of the Indian diaspora to the UK, adding that the country's state-funded National Health Service (NHS) would collapse without the contribution of 60,000 British Indians. The UK-India alliance is not only mutually beneficial but also good for the world as a whole because we share similar values as secular democracies, said Ranger, the London-based founder of international marketing and distributing company Sun Mark. The Conservative Friends of India (CFIN), which promotes closer ties between Britain's ruling Conservative party and India, also unveiled new patrons at the event Tory MPs Ian Duncan Smith, Paul Scully and Nusrat Ghani. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Two Indian-origin cybersecurity startups are planning to expand their base to Singapore and are in talks for funding with investors in the city-state for their concepts on preventing cyber attacks. Seconize, which was formed in Bangaluru in 2017, recently set up its office in Singapore for expansion across Asia Pacific and has already secured support from Singapore telecom giant Singtel and National University of Singapore (NUS) Enterprise. The startup enables enterprises to manage their cyber risks through its continuous predictive risk intelligence product. Damages to businesses by each cyber attack could be as high as USD 4 million, Chetan Anand, CEO & Co-Founder of Seconize, said. The company's proof of concept has been tried out by a large Indian enterprise, said Anand, who pitched for investment at the Innovation Cybersecurity Ecosystem at BLOCK71 (ICE71) Accelerated Demo Day in Singapore on Wednesday. Seconize is among the top in the NASSCOM list of 10,000 startups and recognized by the Data Security Council of India. Similarly, the other startup Blue Phish Blue Phish is an e-Learning platform that localises micro-modules in all major languages and enables companies to reduce their cyber risk and meet compliance standards. It assesses and trains the workforce in cybersecurity awareness, building human firewalls, said its co-founder, Shaily Shah. Shah, a Canadian citizen, along with British national of Indian origin Narinder Kaur Bual and Sindhu Nair from Kerala have been building Blue Phish since 2017. They are in the process of setting up development offices in India, Vietnam and Malaysia. ICE71 advances cybersecurity innovation in Asia, presenting 10 start-ups at its second ICE71 Accelerate Demo Day'. Cybersecurity is among the key pillars supporting Singapore's Smart Nation ambitions. It is therefore crucial for our people, businesses and enterprises to be well protected in today's digital environment, said Freddy Boey, Deputy President (Innovation and Enterprise) of NUS. The key to supporting the nation's ambitions lies in driving cybersecurity innovation and encouraging more enterprising cybersecurity entrepreneurs and start-ups to make Singapore their home, he said. Over 200 investors attended the event which also had startups from Singapore, Turkey, Vietnam, UK and the US. The latest cohort of start-ups was chosen to participate in the three-month ICE71 Accelerate programme, supporting the development and acceleration of their growth, Edgar Hardless, CEO of Singtel Innov8, said. "Increasingly, enterprises and governments need to work more closely with start-ups to address the frequency, scale, and sophistication of cyber threats globally, he said. Hardless said that they aim to accelerate the growth of these startups by connecting them to leading investors, enterprises and government agencies. This strengthens Singapore's cybersecurity ecosystem and positions the country as the leading regional cybersecurity hub. This also creates a conducive environment for the roll-out of new and innovative technologies which can power Singapore's Smart Nation goals, he said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A full-blown controversy broke out on Thursday over Prime Minister Narendra Modi's allegation that Rajiv Gandhi used INS Viraat as a "personal taxi" with former Navy chief Admiral (retd) L Ramdas as well as a former commanding officer of the aircraft carrier rejecting it and the charge becoming fodder for a political slugfest between the Congress and the BJP. While the Congress alleged that Modi is a "serial liar" who has made Indian Air Force jets his "own taxi", the BJP hit back with Finance Minister Arun Jaitley saying that the "kaamdars" used India's naval fleet to strike at terror, "naamdars" used them for personal reasons. While addressing an election rally here on Wednesday, Modi cited a old media report to allege that Gandhi used the INS Viraat to go on a holiday with his friends and in-laws as if it was his "personal taxi". Contradicting Modi, Wajahat Habibullah, who was the then administrator of Lakshwadeep, said the late prime minister and his wife had come to attend a meeting of the Island Development Authority in Kavaratti which lasted for two days and after the official work got over, they left for Bangaram island to join the family and other guests. "His (Gandhi's) holidays had nothing to do with the official function. The Prime Minister (Modi) should check facts before making such statements," he said. Vice Admiral (Retd) Vinod Pasricha, who was commanding the ship during the then prime minister's visit, trashed reports that Gandhi's friends and as well as his wife Sonia's relatives were onboard the warship when he was enroute to Lakshadweep from Trivandrum. "All protocols were followed during Gandhi's official visit in 1987. No foreigners or other guests were present onboard the ship. The claim was totally wrong," Vice Admiral (Retd) Pasricha said when asked about Gandhi's visit in later part of 1987. He said Gandhi visited Lakshadweep to attend a meeting of the Island Development Authority, and his wife Sonia and his son Rahul were onboard the warship during the trip, adding the then PM also visited Bangaram during the two-day trip. Joining Modi in his attack against Gandhis, Jaitley tweeted,"the Kaamdars use India's naval assets to strike at terror. The Naamdars use them for personal vacations with family and in-laws." Modi often uses the word "naamdar" to refer to the members of the Gandhi family, and "kaamdar" for people who work hard for the nation. Hitting back at Modi, Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera alleged that he is a "serial liar" and has made Indian Air Force jets his "own taxi". Khera also said Pasricha has clarified that Rajiv Gandhi was on an official visit on INS Viraat and not on a vacation. Ramdas, who was the Southern Navy Commander then and was also onboard the INS Viraat, in a statement, said "no foreigners visited INS Viraat and that the prime minister and his wife were onboard the aircraft carrier" following all official protocol. "I would like to state unequivocally, that this was not the case," he said referring to the media report which was cited by Modi. Ramdas said he issued the statement after getting written responses on the issue from Vice Admiral Pasricha, Admiral (retd) Arun Prakash, who was commanding INS Vindhyagiri and Vice Admiral (retd) Madanjit Singh, who was the commanding officer of INS Ganga. Ramdas also asserted that, "no ships were specifically diverted for personal use of the Gandhi family. Only one small helicopter was left at Kavratti to meet any emergency medical requirements of the PM and his wife." However, another former Navy Commander (retd) V K Jaitly, in a tweet, said "Rajiv and Sonia Gandhi used INS Viraat for travel to celebrate their holidays at Bangaram island. Indian Navy resources were used extensively. I am a witness. I was posted on INS Viraat at that time." Talking to reporters in Bhopal, Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman described the former Congress Prime Minister as a martyr, but added it does not mean "we wont talk about misrule, corruption and policies" of his government. She also said that the issue related to the alleged misuse of INS Viraat by the Gandhi family had been in public domain for long and maintained two leading national magazines had written about it at length in 2013. Criticising Modi, NCP chief Sharad Pawar in Maharashtra on Thursday said it did not behove the prime minister to make such a remark about the person who was not alive. Reacting to the recent allegations made by Modi, Pawar told reporters here, "That person (Rajiv Gandhi) is not alive. His death was painful, for anyone." He said two individuals -- Indira Gandhi and Rajiv Gandhi -- from the Gandhi family became prime minister and were killed. "And after such a big sacrifice, it does not behove (the prime minister) to use such a language about the person," the former Union minister said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Irked over non-cooperation of embattled realtor Unitech Ltd in the forensic audit, the Supreme Court Thursday ordered withdrawal of all the facilities given to its promoters, Sanjay Chandra and his brother Ajay Chandra, who are in Tihar jail for allegedly siphoning off home buyers' money. The top court said the Chandra brothers should be treated like ordinary prisoners as per the prison manual of Tihar jail here where they have been lodged since 2017. In 2017, the apex court had directed the jail authorities to facilitate Chandras' meeting with their company officials and lawyers so that they are able to arrange the money for refunding home buyers as well as for completing the ongoing housing projects. It had also said that visit to the jail should be made within the normal visiting hours as per the rules and Chandras' counsel could go there to meet him. On Thursday, after the forensic auditors told the court that Unitech has not cooperated with them, the top court said it is left with no other option but to order CBI investigation in the affairs of Unitech. A bench of Justices D Y Chandrachud and M R Shah did not order CBI probe in express terms, but said that it would like to have assistance of Attorney General K K Venugopal on the issue on next date of hearing. The court said it would also like to hear from the Attorney General on whether the government can take over the management of Unitech Group and its subsidiaries to protect the interest of home buyers. It said the court would also like to have assistance of the Attorney General on the point whether government would like to complete the stalled projects of Unitech with the help of central construction agencies to provide relief to home buyers, who have invested their hard earned money. During the hearing, the forensic auditors told the bench that officials of Unitech were not cooperating in the investigation or providing details and data of transactions which could enable them to track the diversion of home buyers money to other projects. Advocate Pawan Shree Agrawal, who was appointed as amicus curiae in the matter, told the court that Gurgaon municipal corporation has initiated auction proceedings for selling a property worth hundred of crores of rupees of Unitech. The bench then said that it was staying the auction proceedings for now till the disposal of petition pending before it. The apex court had on January 23, refused to grant bail to Chandra brothers. It said they have not complied with the October 30, 2017 order which asked them to deposit Rs 750 crore with the apex court registry by December 31, 2017. The court had directed the trial court which is seized of the criminal case against the Unitech promoters to proceed expeditiously in the trial. Chandras have sought bail on the ground that they were complying with the apex court order and have deposited over 400 crore till now. On December 7, 2018, the apex court has directed forensic audit of Unitech Ltd and its sister concerns and subsidiaries by Samir Paranjpe, Partner, Forensic & Investigation Services in M/s Grant Thornton India. The forensic audit has been proposed in various phases with the first phase focusing on 74 construction projects and the entities of Unitech involved. The court had directed Unitech Ltd to identify and nominate two of its Directors who are not in jail and a team of three senior officers for coordinating with the forensic auditors for the purpose of supplying all the data, materials and information as is required by the auditors. The amicus curiae appointed in the case has said in its report that out of 74 construction projects undertaken by Unitech, as many as 61 were incomplete and about 16,300 home buyers were involved in these projects. The court had noted that the documents and report of Delhi police disclose disturbing state of affairs at Unitech in which funds were collected from home buyers and then siphoned off before the accounts were closed. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Lenders of Infratech on thursday sought clarifications from on various relief measures and concession proposed by the state-owned firm in its revised bid to acquire the debt-ridden realty company, sources said. The creditors' panel will meet again on May 14 to further discuss the revised bid of NBCC, they added. The Committee of Creditors (CoC) met Thursday to discuss NBCC's revised offer after it rejected the bid of Mumbai-based Suraksha Realty on May 3 through a voting under the insolvency proceedings. During the meeting, lenders and representatives of home buyers sought many clarifications from senior officials of These queries were mainly related to relief measures and concession proposed by in its offer. NBCC was also asked how it will fund the takeover of Infratech, sources said adding that NBCC officials answered all the queries. It was decided in the meeting that lenders will send a written query to NBCC by Friday and the public sector firm would reply by May 13. Lenders and homebuyers would meet again on May 14 to continue the discussion. On May 3, creditors had rejected the bid of Suraksha Realty, which was lone contender left after NBCC's offer was rejected on technical grounds like non-approval of government departments as well as non-binding terms and conditions. After the rejection of its bid on April 26 by the CoC, NBCC received the necessary approvals from the government departments including the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs. Clarification has been sought in the backdrop of Infratech's Interim Resolution Professional (IRP) Anuj Jain flagging to the lenders that NBCC's bid was conditional and non-binding. Jain has written to the CoC that NBCC's revised bid is conditional as the state-owned firm has stated that the plan will not be binding on it unless key relief measures such as extinguishing of income tax liability and a dispensation from seeking consent of YEIDA for any business transfer is granted, sources had said. NBCC has proposed infusion of Rs 200 crore equity capital, transfer of 950 acres of land worth Rs 5,000 crore to banks and completing construction of flats by July 2023 to settle an outstanding claim of Rs 23,723 crore of financial creditors. However, NBCC has put several conditions for the implementation of its plan, including a demand to extinguish an estimated income-tax liability of Rs 33,000 crore over a period of 30 years arising out of the transfer of land parcels from Yamuna Expressway Industrial Development Authority (YEIDA) to The IRP pointed out that the insolvency process approved by the CoC in December last year provided that the resolution plans from potential bidders should be binding and non-conditional. The court-mandated deadline for completing the resolution plan for Japyee Infratech ended on May 6 and the CoC has sought an extension of the deadline. The bench of NCLT has posted the matter for hearing on May 21. Meanwhile, has also shown interest to acquire and complete over 20,000 delayed flats in Noida. Interestingly, Jaypee Group's promoters too have put in a bid to retain control of the company. In 2017, went into insolvency after NCLT admitted the application by an IDBI Bank-led consortium seeking resolution of the firm. During the first round of insolvency proceedings, the Rs 7,350 crore bid of Lakshdeep, part of Suraksha Group was rejected by lenders as it was found to be substantially lower than the company's net worth and assets as well as the liquidation value of about Rs 14,000 crore. In Octber 2018, the IRP started a fresh initiative to revive on the NCLT direction. (JAL) had submitted Rs 750 crore in the registry of the for the refund to buyers and the amount is lying with NCLT. Small business lender Kinara Capital Thursday announced it has secured funding of Rs 100 crore from investors, to boost technology and branch expansion. The funding was secured from private equity and impactinvestors-Gaja Capital, GAWA Capital, Michael & Susan DellFoundation and Patamar Capital, the company said. The funding will help accelerate Kinara Capital's growth in new and existing markets and increase its investment in technology to improve customer experience and assess credit decisions at a faster rate, the company said in a release. Kinara Capital claimed that it has disbursed Rs 1,160 crore across 33,785-plus loans to date, which has impacted over half a million lives in India. Kinara Capital provides loans in Rs 2-25 lakh range without taking property collateral from small business entrepreneurs. The company will now expand investment in services that refine the customer experience with features such as autopay and auto-disbursement, it said. On the backend, it will further develop its proprietarymachine-learning lending algorithms to fast track financialinclusion for thousands of small business entrepreneurs, it said. With 90 current branches, the company plans to add 20 more in high-growth locations in Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu and Telangana. Kinara Capital currently has an employee base of 1,000 employees and plans to fill about 300 more roles this year. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Exports of knitwear products from is likely to cross Rs 30,000 crore during this financial year from Rs 26,300 crore registered in 2018-19, a leading exporter and chairman of India International Knit Fair, A Shaktivel has said. Exports during April 2019 have crossed Rs 4,400 crore which is a very encouraging sign, Shaktivel told reporters in Wednesday night. Besides, India now has an advantage after the US imposed tariffs on some products made in China, as many buyers and manufacturers were approaching India for textile products, he said. Moreover, India has the strength in raw materials, like cotton and an made fibre, including polyester, he pointed out. He said if the long-pending demand of exporters for a Free Trade Agreement with the European Union was met, exports to countries in Europe can be doubled in another three years and added that similar agreements with Canada and Australia would boost exports. Shaktivel said the three-day 46th International Knit Fair will begin in on May 15 for which 42 buyers and 90 international buyers have confirmed their participation. The fair would offer a wide variety of knitwear apparel products and cotton, blended garments, Shaktivel said. A Japanese court has rejected an appeal from the lawyers of Nissan former Chairman Carlos Ghosn over bail conditions that forbid him to freely contact his wife. The Kyodo service reported Thursday the Tokyo District Court rejected the appeal filed earlier in the day. The report could not be immediately confirmed. Deputy Chief Prosecutor Shin Kukimoto said Thursday limiting contact with Carole Ghosn was "an absolute necessity" because of risks of tampering with evidence. He also expressed outrage over Ghosn's release. Ghosn was arrested in November on allegations of financial misconduct. He was released in March on 1 billion yen ($9 million) bail, but re-arrested April 4. He was released April 25 on 500 million yen ($4.5 million) bail. Ghosn says he is innocent. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Sri Lanka's Catholic Church on Thursday announced that all Catholic schools are likely to reopen next week, while mass services would resume from Sunday depending on the country's security situation after the Easter bombings that killed 258 people. The schools were shutdown and public mass services were suspended following fears of a repeat of the April 21 attacks on three churches and three luxury hotels here. Archbishop of Colombo Cardinal Malclom Ranjith in a press conference said that Catholic private schools might be opened on May 14. However, these schools would be closed till Vesak Holidays if there are fresh threats. "We are hoping to open the schools on May 14. The decision is still not final as we continue to observe the country's security situation. We want to be absolutely sure before we open our schools because we don't want even a single child to suffer as a result of any unwanted attacks," Cardinal Ranjith said after a meeting between the country's 12 bishops and President Maithripala Sirisena. Vesak, the Day of the Full Moon in the month of May, is the most sacred day to millions of Buddhists around the world and this year it was expected to be observed from May 17 to 21. However, the Sri Lankan government has restricted the five-day national Vesak festival celebrations to just two days citing the prevailing security situation in the country following the massive Easter Sunday bombings. Ranjith also said regular Sunday services would resume at all Catholic churches in Colombo from Sunday. "Sunday Mass will be held at the Archdiocese of Colombo from this Sunday," he said. However, the Bishops of other dioceses will have to take a decision on recommencing Sunday Mass in their own dioceses this Sunday after consulting the respective security officials in their areas, he said. Meanwhile, a special prayer service and holy mass for the blast victims were held in the evening at the St Sebastian's Church in Negombo where over 100 people were killed in the attack. The service was held at the outdoor enclosure of the church as the blast devastated prayer house is currently being rebuilt. Nine suicide bombers, including a woman, carried out a series of devastating blasts that tore through three churches and three luxury hotels, killing 258 people and injuring over 500 others. Following the attack, the authorities closed all the schools until further notice. All government schools were reopened on Monday, but attendance has been low despite new security measures. The government has blamed a local group, the National Thowheeth Jama'ath (NTJ), for the bombings. Islamic State claimed responsibility and the bombers filmed themselves making a pledge of allegiance to the group before the attacks. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Sri Lanka's Catholic Church on Thursday announced that all the Catholic schools will reopen next week while mass services would resume from Sunday depending on the country's security situation after the Easter bombings that killed 258 people. The schools were shutdown and public mass services were suspended following fears of a repeat of the April 21 attacks on three churches and three luxury hotels here. Archbishop of Colombo Cardinal Malclom Ranjith in a press conference said that that Catholic private schools might be opened on May 14. However, he said these schools would be closed till Vesak Holidays, if there are fresh threats, the Daily Mirror reported. We cannot allow even a single child to suffer. Therefore, we intend to watch the situation closely and carefully, Cardinal Ranjith said following a meeting between the country's 12 bishops and President Maithripala Sirisena in Colombo on Thursday. Vesak, the Day of the Full Moon in the month of May, is the most sacred day to millions of Buddhists around the world and this year it was expected to be observed from May 17 to 21. However, the Sri Lankan government has restricted the five-day national Vesak festival celebrations to just two days citing the prevailing security situation in the country following the massive Easter Sunday bombings. Ranjith also said regular Sunday services would resume at all Catholic churches in Colombo from Sunday while a special service will be held at Negombo, north of the capital, where over 100 people were killed in the attack. Nine suicide bombers, including a woman, carried out a series of devastating blasts that tore through three churches and three luxury hotels, killing 258 people and injuring over 500 others. Following the attack, the authorities closed all the schools until further notice. All government schools were reopened on Monday, but attendance has been low despite new security measures. The government has blamed a local group, the National Thowheeth Jama'ath (NTJ), for the bombings. Islamic State claimed responsibility and the bombers filmed themselves making a pledge of allegiance to the group before the attacks. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Drug firm Lupin Thursday said it has entered into a definitive agreement with Swiss company Aptissen to market, distribute and sell the current Aptissen products in Canada. This includes immediate rights to distribute Synolis VA for the treatment of Osteoarthritis, Lupin informed the BSE. "Lupin and Aptissen announced that they have entered into a definitive distribution agreement under which Aptissen has granted Lupin the exclusive rights to market, distribute and sell the current Aptissen products in Canada," it said. Synolis VA (Visco-Antalgic) is the intra-articular injection product for osteoarthritis with a unique combination of Hyaluronic Acid and high concentration of Sorbitol, the company said, adding that "Synolis VA 40/80 is already approved by Health Canada and an additional strength is currently under review." Sofia Mumtaz, President of Lupin Pharma Canada said, "We are pleased to partner with Aptissen for marketing and distribution of Synolis VA, a branded product in Canada. "This partnership helps us expand our product portfolio in the Canadian market. We remain committed to bring superior medical products and leverage our distribution strength to allow easy access to specialty medicines in the market." Shares of Lupin were trading 0.48 per cent higher at Rs 855.15 on the BSE. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Accusing the mahamilavati opposition parties of putting the nation's security in peril, Prime Minister Narendra Modi Thursday urged people not to vote for a "khichdi" coalition that will only bring in anarchy and instability. These are the parties indulging in of vote bank and caste equations, these 'mahamilavatis' had put the country in danger, he said. These people had allowed Pakistan to dominate India, he said at a rally in the constituency where Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav is the SP-BSP-RLD alliance candidate. Modi has been referring to the opposition alliance in UP and possible coalitions elsewhere in the country as mahamilwati, or adulterated. He said before the Bharatiya Janata Party came to power Azamgarh used to be linked to terror attacks by the investigating agencies. This is because the SP and Bahujan Samaj Party leaders in Uttar Pradesh used to give patronage to those who helped terrorists, he alleged. He claimed when opposition parties were in power, they took into account the caste, creed and religion of the terrorists before taking action. Modi said the terror tag has now been removed from Azamgarh and terrorism is confined only to Jammu and Kashmir and the border areas. "Earlier, all terror activities had links to Azamagarh. But what happened after 2014 is for all of you to see," he said. Incidents of bomb explosions in big cities are under control, he added. Modi said his government has put the national interest first and stormed the terror hideouts inside Pakistan. This is the new India which takes on the enemy right in its hideouts," he said. "Be wary of a 'khichdi' government," he said, claiming that a 'mahagathbandhan' victory will only lead to anarchy and instability in the country. He referred to the years when frequent elections took place because of instable governments at the Centre. Between 2004 and 2014, the country saw another 'mahamilavati' government which earned shame for the country the world over, he said, referring to allegations of corruption which surfaced during the UPA government's term. In the 10 years of the Congress-led government, there was not a single area where there was no scam, he claimed. He mentioned the UN's designation of Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar as global terrorist, and said only a strong could ensure this. "Earlier the world was hesitant to stand with us, but today on the issue of Masood Azhar it is with us, he said. He claimed that the previous UP government extended even basic facilities to people on the basis of caste. "All this discrimination was stopped by our government which is working on the motto of Sabka saath sabka vikas', he said. The prime minister claimed that the local Bhojpuri dialect and culture have got an identity in the world in past five years. He mentioned Ravi Kishan, Nirahua and Manoj Tewari - all of them BJP candidates in the Lok Sabha elections -- among those who have helped. "Bhojpuri cinema is today available on the mobile phone, reaching the poor through YouTube, he said. The reason, he said, is that smartphones have become cheaper as they are now made in the country. Internet data is the cheapest in India, he claimed. "Because of the 2G scam, mobile phones were not within the means of the common people," he said recalling a UPA-era controversy. Buoyed by the turnout, Modi predicted that his government will return. "Wherever I go, I find a similar mood of Phir ek baar...", he said, as the crowd chanted back, Modi sarkar. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Prime Minister Narendra Modi Thursday said that West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is insulting the Constitution by saying that she is not ready to accept him as the prime minister of the country. Addressing an election rally at Bankura, Modi said "Didi (Banerjee) is publicly saying that she is not ready to accept the country's PM as the head of the nation, but she feels proud in acknowleding Pakistan PM as that country's prime minister." He said that out of anxiety of losing the general elections, the chief minister is insulting the Constitution. The PM said that Banerjee had not received telephone calls when he tried to contact her in the aftermath of cyclone Fani. "She did not take calls from me during the cyclone. The central government wanted to sit with officers of the state to discuss the situation, but didi did not allow that too," Modi said. Banerjee had said in a rally on May 6 that she does not accept Narendra Modi as the prime minister of the country describing him as the "expiry PM" and that she will talk to the new prime minister after the election results. "The chief minister is not interested in the betterment of the state, but that of her family, nephew and tolabaj (extortionists) of her party," the PM said. Modi said that how much the TMC supremo is worried can be understood by the language being used by her. "She is now talking about stones and slaps against me," the PM said. "I am used to abuses, I have now got the ability to digest abuses from dictionaries from around the world," he said. The PM claimed that Banerjee has destroyed Bengal in her "lust for power" and now she is bent on destroying it further in the "fear" of losing power. He said that the government of the state is being run by the TMC in name only, while the actual business is conducted by the syndicates. He claimed that everybody - from teachers to intellectuals, businessmen to poor people - are in distress owing to the rule of extortionists in the state. "Didi's tolabaj are not leaving poor MNREGA workers, the extortionists are even taking away their job cards," Modi said. He said the Centre sends money so that people get food grains at low prices, but these are also being looted by the extortionists of TMC. He alleged that TMC leaders are making money from open cast coal mines, while labourers are not getting their wages. "Didi gets angry when when Modi talks of these atrocities of TMC, but Modi is not worried about her anger, because the love of 130 crore populace of the country is with him," the PM said. He said that the chief minister should rather be worried about the anger of those who were duped by chitfund companies, young people who are jobless despite being qualified and government employees who are not getting adequate DA and salaries. He claimed that Banerjee "should worry about the Kali, Durga bhakts in the state who have to perform puja with fear in their minds." While the BJP has repeatedly accused the TMC government in the state of putting impediments in performance of religious rituals by the Hindus, the chief minister has vehemently denied the allegations, saying that every religion is treated equally in West Bengal. Modi alleged that Banerjee has concern for illegal immigrants, but not for the indigenous adivasi people of the state. "You have seen that when the brave sons of the country killed Pakistan's terrorists in their own country, she demanded that the bodies of the extremists be shown as proof," he said. The PM promised pucca houses for every poor, adivasi, dalit and backward family in the state by 2022. He also promised that by 2022, every household in the country will have cooking gas connection. Speaking at a rally in Purulia, the prime minister said that opposition leaders are "frustrated" after five phases of polling as it is evident that the "BJP is coming back to power." Claiming that Banerjee will receive a jolt on May 23 when the counting of the seven-phase general elections will be held, he said, it will commence the end of the TMC's rule in West Bengal. He said that the illegal immigrants who have been made TMC cadres, and troubling the daughters of Bengal will be identified and acted upon. "I heard that Mamata didi wants to slap Modi; I respect you, call you didi (elder sister), your slap will be a blessing for me," the prime minister said. Furious at being repeatedly termed as a party of 'tolabaj' (extortionists) by Modi, the TMC supremo had said on Tuesday that "Narendra Modi should get a tight slap of democracy." Reacting to Banerjee's comment, Modi said in Purulia that the TMC chief should have the guts of slapping the chitfund company operators and extortionists, as that would absolve her of the accusations of being the leader of a "party of Triple T - Trinamool Tolabaj Tax." He said that Purulia is rich in natural resources like coal. "But mafias have taken advantage of it and made illegal earnings from it," Modi said. "While Didi is engaged in building the career of her nephew, ministers and leaders are involved in scams, and party cadres in extortion. How can the fortunes of the general public of the state improve?" asked Modi. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A 28-year-old man was Thursday awarded death sentence by the district court here for killing a married couple by pouring acid on them. District and Sessions Judge R N Majgaonkar also ordered compensation in accordance to a Maharashtra government scheme for acid attack victims for the couple's orphaned children, aged five and eight years. The convict, Guddu Krish Yadav, was a worker at a chemical factory in Boisar MIDC near here in 2015 when the incident took place. According to the prosecution, Yadav poured concentrated sulphuric acid on his colleague Rajkumar Balram Ravidas (35) and his wife Geeta (30) when they were fast asleep in the chemical company's quarters, leading to their death. The incident was an outcome of a fight over a mobile phone. In November 2015, Yadav had stolen the mobile phone of Ravidas, who complained to their boss. Enraged over being reprimanded by the boss, Yadav poured acid on Ravidas and his wife while they were sleeping, Additional Public Prosecutor Deepak Tare had told the court. The judge relied on eyewitness account of Yadav's co-workers and said this is a "rarest of the rare case" where the accused "deserves nothing less then the death sentence". The prosecution has proved beyond all reasonable doubts the charge under IPC section 302 (murder) against the accused, he said. Around a dozen people were examined as prosecution witnesses in the case. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) An employee of a company depositing cash in ATMs was arrested Thursday for allegedly embezzling Rs 73 lakh. Cash custodian Rajeev Sachan, along with his accomplices, had on April 23 embezzled the money that was supposed to be deposited in ATMs in the city. An FIR was lodged by the security head of the cash carrying company the following day at the Link Road police station. On Thursday, Dilip Kumar, a gang member, was arrested from Uttam Nagar in Delhi and Rs 2 lakh 20 thousand were recovered from him, the police said. He confessed to helping the gang in stealing the money and said he used to wear the dress of a security guard. He said he was paid Rs 4.5 lakh, the police said. Seven accused have been nabbed and sent to jail in this case. The cash custodian and kingpin of the gang Rajeev Sachan and Salman are still at large, the police said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A 16-year-old Pakistani girl was set ablaze allegedly by a man after she refused his marriage proposal in southwestern Punjab province, according to a media report Thursday. The incident occurred in Muzaffargarh district when the suspect and his unidentified companion set the girl on fire in an attempt to kill her and ran away from the site of the incident, the victim's mother was quoted as saying by the Dawn newspaper. She said that the suspect's parents asked for her daughter's hand in marriage but they rejected the proposal, alleging it was due to this the suspect and his accomplice entered her house and set her daughter on fire. A first information report (FIR) has been registered by the teenage girl's mother and the suspect has been arrested. According to the FIR, the victim's mother woke up at around 1.30am when she heard her daughter screaming. She said two men were running away after pouring oil on her daughter and setting her on fire, the report said. Police said that the victim, who suffered burn injuries on her face, body and arms, was shifted to Muzzafargarh District Headquarters hospital, police said, adding that her condition was stable. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Supreme Court Thursday said it may consider releasing illegal foreigners detained in Assam detention centres' provided they are available whenever required for legal proceedings. The top court said it may impose such conditions on the detenues to be released, that they can be traced and made available at the appropriate time before the court or the authorities concerned. It asked the Assam government to work on the modalities of setting up around 1,000 foreigners tribunals for speedy disposal of cases related to illegal immigrants. A bench of Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and Justices Deepak Gupta and Sanjiv Khanna asked advocate Prashant Bhushan, assisting the court as amicus curiae, to inform it by Friday about suitable conditions which could be imposed on the detenues upon their release. Bhushan said that upon their release detenues could be asked to report to police station every month and their guarantors could be asked to ensure their presence when necessary. The bench said that if the guarantors fail to ensure the presence of the detenue then what action could be taken besides forfeiting the bond amount furnished by the guarantors. Bhushan said that they can be sent to jail. The bench then questioned that under what provision they can be sent to jail. "We can't create law by our orders and send them to jail," the bench said and asked Bhushan to apprise it by Friday the appropriate conditions which could be imposed on the detenuees upon release. The bench told Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for Assam government to file an affidavit on the availability of a pool of retired judicial officers, bureaucrats and advocates with certain years of experience, who could function as presiding officers in foreigners tribunal. Mehta informed the court that there are at present 100 foreigners tribunals functioning and consultations are on at the highest level with the Gauhati high court to increase that 200 to begin with. He said that they were expecting rise in number of cases with claims of citizenship after the Assam NRC is published on July 31 and therefore more foreigners tribunals will be needed. "You have framed the eligibility criteria in such a manner that no person would like to join. An advocate with seven years of experience and eligible for post of district judge, why would he apply for a tenure post," the bench said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) US fast food chain McDonald's Thursday said it has reached an out-of-court settlement with estranged partner Vikram Bakshi, buying out the former partner from their joint venture that operated outlets of the chain in north and east India. Connaught Plaza Restaurants Pvt Ltd (CPRL) is now wholly owned by McDonald's India Pvt Ltd (MIPL) and its affiliate (McDonald's Global Markets LLC, "MGM"), following the completion of a settlement reached with Bakshi, the company said in a statement. As part of the agreement, MGM has acquired 50 per cent voting equity shares in CPRL, held by Bakshi and his affiliated entity since inception. CPRL operates McDOnald's outlets in north and east India. The company, however, did not disclose financial details of the settlement. On Monday, the estranged partners McDonald's and Bakshi had told the NCLAT that they are working towards an out-of-court settlement to end their over 5-year-old dispute. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) People in overextended Mexican border cities are voicing concern over the continuation of a U.S. policy that makes Central American migrants seeking asylum in the United States wait south of the border. A U.S. federal appeals court ruled Tuesday that the Trump administration can make migrants wait in Mexico for their immigration hearings while the policy is challenged in court. On Wednesday night, Mexico's immigration agency said 4,217 Central American asylum seekers had already been returned through three border cities. The U.S. government has said it wants to expand the program along the entire border. Mexico's government did not comment following the court decision, but those closer to the issue did. "The United States should resolve their problem there and not transfer it to us," said Mayor Armando Cabada of Ciudad Juarez, which lies across the border from El Paso, Texas. Juarez has received 1,344 returned asylum seekers more than any other city since the program started in San Diego on Jan. 29. The 11 Central Americans who are challenging the U.S. policy argue their safety has been put at risk by making them wait in Mexico for a process that could take years. Migrants in many Mexican border cities have typically made easy targets for organized crime gangs that kidnap them to extort money from relatives or try to recruit them into drug and human-trafficking businesses. Vicente Snchez Mungua, a public administration researcher at the College of the Northern Border in Tijuana, said some border cities have suffered critical security situations for years. "It would really expose the migrants to possible security threats," he said. "The speed at which they process (asylum) cases in the United States could cause the number of people applying and waiting in Mexico to increase and create a critical situation." The policy requires asylum seekers who have already made their applications to report to the border on the days they have court hearings. U.S. government personnel transport them to court and then bring them back to the border afterward to re-enter Mexico. Clara Long, an investigator with Human Rights Watch researching the policy, known colloquially as "remain in Mexico," said the returned migrants she interviewed were afraid. She interviewed one woman in Juarez this week who was raped while looking for a place to stay and another who was kidnapped and had to buy her release. "They have no idea what to do to keep themselves safe," she said. Two families with young children who were returned to wait in Mexico last week were told Wednesday they had to leave the shelter where they had been staying, because they were only allowed seven days. "They have no idea where they're going to go and what they're going to do," Long said. Some with relatives who could wire money were staying in cheap hotels, but often deciding between paying for a room and eating, she said. Others were squatting in abandoned homes around the city. Mexico's foreign relations ministry did not respond to requests for comment. The Mexican government has emphasized previously that the policy is a unilateral U.S. measure and that Mexico will focus on the humanitarian treatment of migrants. The U.S. government sees the policy in part as another deterrent to migrants seeking asylum. Whereas asylum seekers were often released into the U.S. after passing an initial credible fear interview, especially those with children, and told to return for court hearings, the new policy returns many to wait in Mexico. But the U.S. government has also been overwhelmed by the number of families from Central America's "Northern Triangle" Honduras, El Salvador and Guatemala and says it does not have a place to house them. In April, the Border Patrol apprehended 109,144 migrants, the highest number since 2007. Claudia Portela of the Padre Chava shelter and food kitchen in Tijuana said some migrants in that situation have been staying there. "It causes great uncertainty, insecurity," Portela said. Some can have an easier time if they get work permits in Mexico, but otherwise their lives are very precarious. "They are going to be easy prey for organized crime," Portela said. "They're vulnerable. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Congress on Thursday hit back at Prime Minister Narendra Modi for alleging that the late Rajiv Gandhi used INS Viraat as "personal taxi" on a family vacation, saying he is a "serial liar" who does not have the courage to fight elections on issues such as unemployment and demonetisation. Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera said retired Indian Navy Vice Admiral Vinod Pasricha has clarified that the then Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi was on an official visit on INS Viraat and not on a vacation. "But facts don't matter to Modi. He doesn't have anything to talk about his own achievements. Rahul Gandhi has been challenging him for last six months now to debate on Rafale deal, demonetisation, unemployment, but Modi does not have the courage to speak," he said at a press conference. Taking a swipe at Modi for making allegations against Rajiv Gandhi who is no more, Khera said has any one read about former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru saying that his next election will be against Mughal emperor Humayun, or Indira Gandhi making her entire campaign against Queen Victoria. "We are now hearing that. Modi ji tells us that 30 years ago Rajiv Gandhi went for a holiday in INS Viraat. Prime Minister is a serial liar. A senior official has exposed his lies today.Vice Admiral (retd) Vinod Pasricha appeared on channels some time back and stated that this is a lie and the then PM was on an official visit and not on a holiday," he said. Khera said Modi is the first Prime Minister who asks for votes on his "failures" and Pulwama was an example of this. "It was a big intelligence failure. We lost our soldiers due to this monumental failure in internal security," Khera alleged. The Congress leader also dared Modi to name the people he takes on foreign trips. "We have seen the campaign, there has been no mention of demonetisation. But you tremble when it is mentioned and hide behind Rajiv Gandhi," he said Khera also slammed the Prime Minister for raising the Bofors issue saying it was a BJP-led government at the Centre when the Delhi High Court gave a clean chit to Rajiv Gandhi. It was Atal Bihari Vajpayee's government that decided against appealing the order, he said. "We will debate on Bofors provided you are ready to debate on Rafale," Khera said. "Those who are no more cannot come and respond to you. Have the courage to respond to those who are there to fight you and are challenging you to a debate on Rafale, on unemployment, on demonetisation, on rural distress on faulty implementation of the GST," he said. Earlier, Senior Congress leader Ahmed Patel on Thursday said abusing a martyred Prime Minister is the sign of "ultimate cowardice". "Rajiv ji lost his life due to their hatred and is no longer here amongst us to answer the baseless allegations and abuses which are being unleashed on him. Abusing a martyred Prime Minister is the sign of ultimate cowardice," Patel tweeted. "But who is responsible for his assassination? The BJP backed V P Singh govt refused to provide him with additional security and left him with one PSO despite credible intelligence inputs and repeated requests," he alleged. Prime Minister Modi, at a rally here on Wednesday, accused the Gandhi family of using warship INS Viraat as its "personal taxi" for a holiday when Rajiv Gandhi was at the helm, launching a fresh attack on the late Congress leader days after throwing the "bhrashtachari no 1" barb at him. "Ever imagined that a premier warship of the Indian armed forces could be used as a taxi for a personal holiday? One dynasty did it," Modi had asked. The Navy was made to host the Gandhi family and Rajiv Gandhi's in-laws, and a helicopter was also deployed in their service, Modi claimed, adding that when a family becomes supreme, the country's security is at stake. "INS Viraat was insulted by using it as a personal taxi. This happened when Rajiv Gandhi and his family was out for a 10-day vacation. INS Viraat was deployed for securing our maritime boundary. But it was diverted to take the Gandhi family which was out for a vacation," Modi had said. Congress leaders, including its president Rahul Gandhi and general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, have hit out at Modi for his barb at their father, who was India's prime minister between 1984-89. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A day before Prime Minister Narendra Modi's election rally in Punjab, Chief Minister Amarinder Singh said Thursday the BJP leader has "no moral right" to ask for votes from the people of the state. The PM will address his first rally in Punjab in this Lok Sabha polls on Friday at Hoshiarpur. "Modi has no moral right to ask for votes in Punjab, for which he had done absolutely nothing and whose people he had left to fend for themselves," Singh said at a rally here. "The Modi government did nothing for Punjab or its people in the last two years and two months since the Congress government took over in the state," the chief minister said. He asserted that his government was left to fend for itself despite the "massive debt legacy" left behind by the previous BJP-SAD government. Not only has the state gone ahead with its promised farm loan waiver scheme but also expanded the primary health insurance cover to 42 lakh families, the chief minister said. Describing Modi as a "self-obsessed man", he said the nation has seen how the prime minister has ruled in the past five years, "destroying every institution and ruining all sections of the society with his ill-conceived policies, such as demonetisation and GST". Stressing the need for change, the chief minister said the fate of the country was now in the hands of the people. The nation's growth rate has been put in the reverse direction, and every citizen of India is suffering under the Modi regime, Singh said. Punjab, with 13 Lok Sabha seats, goes to polls in the seventh and the last phase of the general election on May 19. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Prime Minister Narendra Modi's allegation that used INS Viraat as a personal taxi was rejected by former Navy chief Admiral (retd) L Ramdas as well as by a former commanding officer of the Vice Admiral (Retd) Vinod Pasricha, who was commanding the ship during the then prime minister's visit, said all protocols were followed during Gandhi's official trip in 1987, adding no foreigners or other guests were present. Addressing an election rally in New Delhi on Wednesday, Modi said the former prime minister used INS Viraat as a private taxi and his in-laws were onboard the "The claim was totally wrong," said Vice Admiral (retd) Pasricha. However, another former Navy Commander (retd) VK Jaitly, in a tweet, said "Rajiv and Sonia used INS Viraat for travel to celebrate their holidays at Bangaram island. resources were used extensively. I am a witness. I was posted on INS Viraat that time." Former Navy Chief Ramdas, who was the Southern Navy Commander, in a statement, said no foreigners visited INS Viraat and that and his wife were onboard the following all official protocol. "Prime Minister and Mrs Gandhi were embarked on board INS Viraat off Trivandrum enroute Lakshwadeep. The Prime Minister was at Trivandrum as chief guest for the National Games prize distribution," the former Navy Chief said. "He was going to Lakshadweep on official duty, to chair a meeting of IDA (Islands Development Authority). This meeting is held alternately in Lakshadweep and in Andamans," he said. Admiral Ramdas, added, "There were no foreigners with them. I, as Flag officer Commanding in Chief, Southern Naval Command, based in Cochin, also boarded INS Viraat. (Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Prime Minister Narendra Modi's allegations against Rajiv Gandhi are "atrocious" and the way he now talks reflects that he is highly enraged and has started feeling that time has come for him to return to Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath said Thursday. "It is a painful thing that Modi has forgot his status. The way he is levelling allegations is atrocious. He is not talking about youths, about farmers, about traders but trying to divert people's attention. He is misleading people," Nath told PTI in an interview. Modi had said in Uttar Pradesh's Pratapgarh district on Saturday that Rajiv Gandhi had died a corrupt person. "Your (Rahul Gandhi's) father was termed 'Mr Clean' by his courtiers, but his life ended as 'Bhrashtachari No. 1' (corrupt no. 1)." Modi was apparently referring to the Bofors scam, in which Rajiv Gandhi was implicated. Rajiv Gandhi was assassinated in 1991 in Sriperumbudur near Chennai. When asked about the fate of Modi, Nath said, "One thing is absolutely clear that Modi is going to return back home (Gujarat). His ghar vapsi (to Gujarat) is certain." According to the senior Congress leader, the "way Modi is talking, reflects that he is highly enraged and has started feeling that his time is up now."On Modi stating after the third-fourth phases of polling that the Opposition has already lost the elections, Nath said, "What else he would say? He won't say that he that he is losing ground."Asked about BSP supremo Mayawati's threat of reviewing support to his government in Madhya Pradesh after the party's Guna candidate pulled out of the election race and joined the Congress, Nath said, "The candidate wanted to join Congress, therefore we cannot stop him from doing so. (Sitting MP Jyotiraditya) Scindia took me into confidence before announcing about it."He said the Congress and Mayawati have a common aim -- to defeat BJP and to keep Modi out. "I am fully confident that Mayawati will not do anything that benefits the BJP," he said. On the contest in Bhopal, where senior Congress leader Digvijay Singh is pitted against Pragya Singh Thakur, Nath said, "Singh suggested contesting from a difficult seat than his traditional one as he is already a Rajya Sabha member and therefore his contesting from Bhopal." The BJP has no candidate from Bhopal and therefore has put Pragya Singh Thakur, who joined the party a day before her nomination, in the fray, he said. "With this, the BJP wanted to give a message that it wants to do of Hindutva and to divide people... to get benefitted... But people of Bhopal are sensible and I respect them a lot. They will not get into BJP's trap," Nath said, adding people of Bhopal will "not sow a seed that will disrupt their peace in future". On the issue of waiving farmers loans as promised and former chief minister Shivraj Singh's allegations that the list given by the government is nothing but a 'bundle of lies', Nath said, "We have given them a list and now they must point out a single name whose loan is not waived or which name is wrong in it, but they are not doing so. They won't discuss it and only level allegations." Nath said whatever "I can do in 75 days, I have done it. After that model code of conduct came into force for the ensuing Lok Sabha polls". Answering a question, Nath said his party will win 22 out of the total 29 seats in Madhya Pradesh. In 2014, the BJP won 27 seats. Later, in a bypoll, the Congress wrested back its traditional Jhabua-Ratlam Lok Sabha seat from the BJP. Lok Sabha polls in Madhya Pradesh are being held in four phases. Two phases were held on April 29 and May 6. The third and fourth phases will be held on May 12 and May 19. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Chief Minister Thursday accused Prime Minister of seeking votes in the name of "fake nationalism" and said he has done nothing in the last five years except jumlebaazi, foreign tours and lectures. In response to Modi's comments that government brought "nakampanthi" (non-performance) model of governance, Kejriwal said his party has addressed issues related to education, health, and water and asked what have you done. In a tweet, Kejriwal charged, Modi has done nothing in the last five years except jumlebaazi, foreign tours and lectures and that is the reason he is seeking votes in make of fake nationalism. Kejriwal said the people of have sought answers of three questions from you for which you had no answers. The Aam Aadmi Party chief on Wednesday sought answer to three questions from Modi: "Why didn't the pass an ordinance and stop sealing in Delhi? In 2014, PM promised full statehood for Delhi. Why did the not grant full statehood? Why is endorsing " In the tweet, Kejriwal tagged Modi's tweet in which he said brought in "nakampanthi" (non-performance) model of governance. Modi Wednesday launched a blistering attack on the AAP in his first rally in the national capital, accusing the Arvind Kejriwal-led governmentof supporting the "tukde-tukde gang" and bringing in "nakampanthi" (non-performance) model of governance. He said there are four models-- 'naampanthi' (dynastic politics), 'vaampanthi' (left politics) and dam and 'damanpanthi' (hooliganism) and 'vikaspanth' (those who believe in development). "But Delhiis the only state where we learnt about the fifth model. Delhihas seen 'nakampanthi' (non-performance) which created anarchy and betrayed the peopleof the country," Modi said. Best known as the parliamentary constituency of Jawaharlal Nehru, Phulpur is witnessing a 'Modi versus the rest' battle this time. The constituency was in the last year, when the joint opposition candidate created a major electoral upset by defeating the BJP nominee on the seat, which was associated with UP's Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya. This time there are 14 candidates in the fray. The assembly segments which constitute the Phulpur parliamentary constituency are Phulpur, Phaphamau, Soraon (SC), Allahabad West and Allahabad North. There are 19.75 lakh voters in the constituency. Local residents of the constituency see the poll battle as Modi versus the rest, and with every passing day, the excitement among voters is only growing. Ashit Neogy, who runs a shop in Allahabad (North) said, "The hangover of highly successful 2019 Kumbh among residents of Allahabad and Phulpur is yet to disappear. A high volume of developmental works were done in the run-up to the Kumbh, which was witnessed and appreciated by local residents. And, it is definitely advantage BJP." Bhaskar Singh, a resident of Phaphamau, said the area started witnessing development after the BJP formed government in the state. Abhilash Basak, a businessman, said, "There have been infrastructural developments. However, as far as bylanes are concerned, roads are damaged and street-lighting arrangements are rather poor. Apart from this, in Lukerganj, there are problems of water-logging during monsoon season." Basak also said, "As far as the 2019 Lok Sabha elections are concerned, I feel that sentiments of the people are with Prime Minister Narendra Modi."Aman Mehra, a resident of Civil Lines said, "He is voting for Modi". However, a resident of Daraganj (in Allahabad) Nirmal Kumar Das, when contacted said, "Development has taken a back seat as far as this Lok Sabha election is concerned, and it is caste equations, which have emerged in the past couple of days." Prominent candidates in the poll fray are: Keshari Devi Patel from the BJP, Pandhari Yadav of SP and Pankaj Patel of the Congress. The constituency goes to polls in the penultimate phase on May 12. Exuding confidence that the SP candidate will retain the seat, party spokesperson and MLC Rajpal Kashyap said, "Bypolls in Phulpur, Gorakhpur and Kairana changed the narrative of UP's electoral and proved to be the nemesis for the BJP in the state. All these constituencies will definitely vote for the 'mahagathbandhan', whose aim is to herald a 'mahaparivartan'." In the bypolls held last year, joint opposition candidate Samajwadi Party's Nagendra Pratap Singh Patel bagged 3.42 lakh votes and defeated BJP's Kaushalendra Singh Patel who got 2.83 lakh votes. Rebutting claims made by the SP, state BJP media coordinator Rakesh Tripathi said, "It was the low polling percentage which led to defeat of the BJP in the bypolls. However, in the past one year, a large number of first time voters have associated themselves with the party. I am confident that the BJP candidate will emerge as victorious in Phulpur." Jawaharlal Nehru had won from Phulpur in 1951, 1957 and 1962. In 1951 and 1957 general elections, two candidates were elected from Phulpur. In 1951, the seat was known as Allahbad Distt (East) cum Jaunpur Distt (West). In 1964, Nehru died, and subsequently his sister Vijay Lakshmi Pandit got elected from the constituency in 1964 and 1967. The Congress won last time from here in 1971, when Vishwanath Pratap Singh won. After this, it has been won by non-Congress and non-BJP parties mainly the SP. The SP won from here in 1996, 1998, 1999 and 2004, while in 2009 it was the BSP which succeeded. The BJP tasted first electoral victory in Phulpur in 2014, when Keshav Prasad Maurya (the current Deputy Chief Minister of UP) won. However, the victory proved to be short-lived for the BJP, as Maurya vacated the Lok Sabha seat after becoming the Deputy Chief Minister following BJP's landslide win in the 2017 UP Assembly elections. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Stepping up her attack on Narendra Modi, Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Thursday said she had never seen "a more coward and weak" prime minister than him. "I have not seen a more coward and weak prime minister than him (Modi) in my life," she told an election meeting here, a day after Modi fired yet another salvo targeting her father and former prime minister Rajiv Gandhi, accusing him of using warship INS Viraat as a "personal taxi" for a family holiday. Priyanka Gandhi claimed that Modi had failed to answer people's questions on his "unfulfilled" promises about generating two crore jobs and doubling farmers' income. "The power of does not come from big campaigns and television shows. People are the biggest in democracy. One should have the power to listen and redress people's problems. He (Modi) should have the power to listen to the opposition. Leave aside listening to you, this prime minister does know how to reply to you," she said. "You have been cheated. He (Modi) had promised to check corruption, but now who has been exposed as corrupt?.... He hides the reality with his campaigns. If Modiji comes to you, you should tell him that in Amethi, without power connection, a lady showed a Rs-35,000 electricity bill, while another person showed a bill for Rs 50,000," the Congress general secretary in-charge of eastern Uttar Pradesh said. She claimed that loans of big industrialists were waived, "but when (Congress chief) Rahul (Gandhi) asked for farm loan waiver, he was told there was no money". Priyanka Gandhi also claimed that farmers' insurance money was never paid to them and they were battling the stray cattle menace. "If the prime minister is so powerful, he should say why he could not solve your problems. In every speech, he mentions Pakistan, but he should also tell you what his government has done and will do in the next five years. We are here due to you people and you have made us leaders. People are bigger, not us," she said. The Congress leader alleged that when thousand of farmers from all over the country had gathered in Delhi and sought "a five-minute appointment from the prime minister, he did not give them time". "In his (Modi's) constituency, Varanasi, in the last five years, he could not even spare five minutes to visit the people in the villages, ask them how they are and what are their problems," she said. Polling for the ongoing Lok Sabha election will be held in 14 seats of Uttar Pradesh, including Pratapgarh and Jaunpur, in the sixth phase on May 12 and the results will be announced on May 23. The war of words between the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Congress has turned shriller with Modi raising the issue of alleged corruption during the tenure of Rajiv Gandhi as prime minister, saying his life had ended as "bhrashtachari no. 1" (corrupt number one). At a rally in Delhi on Wednesday, Modi said, "INS Viraat was insulted by using it as a personal taxi. This happened when Rajiv Gandhi and his family was out for a 10-day vacation." The Congress hit back, accusing Modi of spreading lies about its late leader, who was the prime minister over 30 years ago, as he could see his "imminent defeat" in the ongoing polls. Later, addressing a rally at Jaunpur, Priyanka Gandhi alleged that under the current BJP-led government, those who asked for their rights were termed as "traitors". "The prime minister has not uttered a word on the SC/ST Act. At Amethi, BJP men beat up two persons to prevent them from casting their votes. The prime minister does not have the courage to talk about your problems," she said at Badlapur, about 40 km from the Jaunpur district headquarters. The Congress leader said political power came from hearing the grievances of the public and redressing them, listening to criticism and also from lending an ear to rival parties. "But this prime minister neither listens nor gives answers to your problems," she said, adding that the people of the country were deceived by the Modi government. Priyanka Gandhi wrapped up her day-long visit with a roadshow in Sultanpur, where people lined up on both sides of the road and perched atop rooftops and trees to catch a glimpse of her. She was garlanded by Congress workers and supporters who put up welcome arches all along the three-km route of her roadshow and shouted slogans welcoming her. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) : The city police Thursday said it has launched a new monitoring system on the activities of rowdy-sheeters, assuring its citizens of a safe and secure environment. Police commissioner Anjani Kumar launched the 'rowdy-sheeters module,' which is incorporated in 'TSCOP' mobile application, wherein all the rowdy-sheeters data is available police station-wise, an official press release here said. Field officers can log in to it with the existing username and verify the rowdies' data. Rowdies' photographs are made available for identification. Their crime details are also made available, the release said. Using the application, the field officers (patrol teams of the police force), patrol cars and blue colts can visit, check their presence and enquire into the activities of the rowdy-sheeters and enter the findings and can geo-tag their location by marking on the map, it said. Senior officials can also monitor the daily checking report available in the dashboard of TSCOP web service where in zone-wise, police-station wise checking reports can be viewed, the release said. The main objective of the app (TSCOP) launched last year is to ensure better collaboration and operational efficiency of the police at all levels in the districts and commissionerates across the state. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The National Human Rights Commission has issued a notice to the Rajasthan government and the state DGP in connection with the alleged rape of a Dalit woman by five men in front of her husband in Alwar. A video shot by the accused also reportedly went viral on social media, the NHRC said. "The NHRC has taken suo motu cognisance of a media report that a Dalit woman was allegedly raped by five men after tying up her husband in Thanagaji area of Alwar district in Rajasthan on April 26. Reportedly, despite having registered an FIR in the matter, police did not take any action for four days because of elections on May 6," the rights panel said in a statement on Wednesday. The commission has observed that the contents of media reports, if true, amount to gross violation of the human rights of the victim and her husband. The NHRC said issued notices to the Rajasthan chief secretary and the state director general of police (DGP), asking them to submit a report in the matter within six weeks. The commission said it would also like to know whether provisions of the SC/ST Act, 1995 have been applied in the case for action against the guilty and statutory relief to the victim. Four of the five suspects in the rape case have been arrested, while the city SP has been shunted out and an SHO suspended in connection with the matter. The husband of the victim claimed that he had approached the Thanagaji police station SHO and the SP with his complaint, but he was asked to wait as they were busy with the elections. He alleged that an FIR was registered only on May 2. Jaipur Inspector General S Segathir said Wednesday that four suspects have been arrested and 14 police teams pressed into service to nab the fifth accused. The state government has released an interim relief of Rs 4.12 lakh for the victim as per the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989. Meanwhile, locals took out a protest march in Thanagazi town demanding arrest of all the accused. Protests were also held in Dausa, Jaipur and Churu demanding death penalty for the culprits. On April 26, the accused stopped the couple's motorcycle on Thanagaji-Alwar road and beat the husband. They stripped the couple and raped the woman in front of her husband. One of accused also shot a video. The victim's husband alleged that the police officers did not heed his request for action against the culprits. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A UK judge who denied bail to Nirav Modi for a third time remained unconvinced that his community ties to Britain were strong enough to not make him a flight risk even though the fugitive diamond merchant was willing to double his security to 2 million pounds and live on a strict 24-hour curfew at his posh apartment in London. The 48-year-old, wanted in India as the main accused in the Punjab National Bank (PNB) fraud and money laundering case amounting to up to USD 2 billion, is back in prison after his bail was denied on Wednesday by Westminster Magistrates' Court Chief Magistrate Emma Arbuthnot. Modi, clean-shaven and smartly dressed for court, sat in the dock and took notes as the prosecution painted a picture of a "diabolical" mastermind behind the luring away of witnesses, mostly his former employees, to far off destinations and destruction of potential evidence. There were moments during the hearing of his third bail application at court when it seemed like Judge Arbuthnot might be persuaded to allow him out of prison on a "24-hour curfew" at his Centrepoint apartment in London. "A combination of interference with witnesses, destruction of servers and mobile phones and the lack of community ties means I still have doubts that he would fail to surrender before the court," she concluded in the end. "There does seem to be a luring away of witnesses (to Egypt) and some pressure that took witnesses away from India," she noted, making specific reference to a transcript of a conversation which indicated that Modi may have been using his US-based brother Nehal Modi to do his "dirty work as it were". In the judge's own words, Modi's barrister Clare Montgomery made a "compelling" argument against his continued imprisonment while he awaits trial in his extradition case and submitted that her client was willing to abide by any stringent conditions as long as he did not have to be lodged in the "unliveable" Wandsworth prison cell. "His experience in custody has been vivid and damaging," said Montgomery, as she sought to counter the evidence put forward by the Indian authorities. A team from the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) as well as the High Commission of India were present in court as Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) barrister Nick Hearn presented the government of India's arguments against Modi's release from jail. The focal point of the lengthy bail hearing was a set of witness statements by former employees such as Ashish Lad and Subhash Parab, which the defence team sought to establish reflected intimidation from the ED but the prosecution stressed that the intimidation was masterminded by Modi. "These are a plausible and coherent account of witnesses being contacted by associates of Mr Modi. There is very credible evidence of interference with witnesses. Nothing in the defence bundle undermines those coherent allegations," said Hearn, referring to the fresh set of documents submitted by Modi's defence on April 30 in support of the third bail application this week. In the end, while the judge admitted that the 2 million pounds offered by Modi as security for his bail doubled from the previous hearing as a result of additional funds from his employer she remained unconvinced that his community ties to the UK were strong enough to not make him a flight risk from the country. Montgomery sought to convince the judge otherwise, pointing to the fact that his children had their secondary education in the UK and were in the US now only because of the ill health of their maternal grandfather. "His presence here [UK] has got surer and firmer, in fact he clings to it because his alternative would be to go back to India. He has no other feasible place to go," she said, also pointing to the fact two of his elder children are set for summer internships in the UK. But in the end the judge remained unconvinced on all factors behind the "large fraud" and noted that the case against Modi was not "done and dusted", which left the prospect of further interference with witness still a potential issue. There was also some concern over money being "squirrelled away", giving him access to funds for escape. A visibly crestfallen Modi was led away from the dock as his bail, which had already been rejected twice before by the same court, was turned down yet again. It remains unclear whether his team intend to appeal against the lower court order in the UK High Court. But meanwhile, the extradition case will return for its next hearing on May 30, by when Montgomery told the court the Indian government would be ready with a "perfectly paginated" set of documents in support of the case against her client. The comment was a sarcastic reference to the state of paperwork presented by the Indian authorities in previous extradition cases, including that of liquor tycoon Vijay Mallya also heard by Judge Arbuthnot. She has been very firm with the Indian side about proper indexing of all documents to be submitted to the court in relation to the case. Modi was arrested by uniformed Scotland Yard officers in central London on March 19 and faces extradition to India as the "principal beneficiary" of the fraudulent issuance of letters of undertaking (LoUs) as part of a conspiracy to defraud PNB and then laundering the proceeds of crime. The diamond merchant has been behind bars at one of England's most overcrowded prisons Her Majesty's Prison (HMP) Wandsworth. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Congress president Rahul Gandhi Thursday accused the AAP of "opening doors" for Narendra Modi in the 2014 Lok Sabha polls and asserted that it is only his party that can defeat the BJP. Addressing a rally here, his second in four days in the national capital, Gandhi said he acknowledges the Congress has made mistakes, but its intention is good and the party does not promise anything it cannot deliver. Canvassing for his party's East Delhi candidate Arvinder Singh Lovely, he claimed that PM Modi and Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal make promises that cannot be fulfilled. "The Aam Aadmi Party gave a slogan (in 2014) 'Arvind Kejriwal for CM and Narendra Modi for PM'. The doors for Narendra Modi were opened by the AAP," Gandhi said. "One cannot hear the slogan 'chowkidar chor hain' (the watchman is the thief) in the Aam Aadmi Party office," he said. In his rally on Monday, Gandhi had held Kejriwal responsible for the failure of alliance talks and claimed the AAP national convener took a "u-turn" from an agreed position and wanted a tie-up beyond the national capital. Gandhi also cited posters which read 'Hum kaam karte rahe, woh rokte rahe' (we worked, they stalled), a reference to the turf war between the Delhi government and the Centre, and alleged when the AAP contested polls, it never highlighted this. Taking on Kejriwal on the sealing issue, the Congress president said the Delhi chief minister complained that he cannot do anything on sealing. "You are in power. Small traders... Delhi's backbone being broken, sealing is on. You are the chief minister and you say you cannot do anything? Congress had stopped this in Parliament," Gandhi said. Attacking Modi over demonetisation and GST implementation, he said the "nationalist Narendra Modi" hurt the Indian economy. Taking a dig, Gandhi claimed the prime minister reads from a teleprompter and this was due to "fear" instilled by Congress workers. "The Congress has made mistakes. I acknowledge that. But our intentions are clean. I didn't make false promise of Rs 15 lakh in bank accounts. I said Rs 3.60 lakh in five years. I won't say I will give you Rs 15 lakh. Kill me, but I won't say it. On the other hand, Kejriwal and Modi have been making one false promise after another," he said. The Congress president said if his party is elected to power, it will implement the minimum income guarantee NYAY scheme which will increase the spending capacity of people and boost the economy. He also reiterated the promise of filling up 22 lakh job vacancies in the government sector, one of the main poll planks of his party. The Congress, the BJP and the AAP are locked in a three-cornered contest in Delhi. Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra had on Wednesday held roadshows in support of her party's North East Delhi and South Delhi candidates Sheila Dikshit and Vijender Singh respectively. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) It may not be correct to assume that an Indian national granted asylum overseas ceases to be the country's citizen, the Delhi High Court has said while deciding a woman's plea for restoration of her passport which was denied by the Centre on the presumption that she had been granted asylum in France. Justice Vibhu Bakhru said, "The assumption that a citizen who has been granted asylum overseas, ceases to be a citizen of this country may not be correct,.." The court said that in the instant case it was not necessary to examine this issue as the woman had neither applied for nor has been granted asylum by France. She had sought directions to the Centre to issue a valid passport to her as her travel document was impounded by the Indian embassy in France on the ground that since her husband had sought asylum in that country, his family along with him would lose their Indian citizenship. "Since the premise on which the impugned communication has been issued is manifestly erroneous, the impugned communication is liable to be set aside. In view of the above, the petition is allowed and the communication dated August 4, 2016 denying passport facilities to the petitioner is set aside. The woman, in her plea, had challenged the August 4, 2016 communication declining her request for restoration of passport facilities. The court, while setting aside the August 2016 communication, directed the Centre to "process the woman's application for renewal/issuance of passport as expeditiously as possible and, in any event, within a period of four weeks from today (May 2) as this court is informed that the petitioner (woman) has to appear before the French authorities on June 7, 2019 for retaining her residential status". According to the woman's plea, her husband had applied for asylum with the authorities in France, which was subsequently withdrawn. He had, thereafter, applied for citizenship of that country and was granted the same in 2016 after their Indian passports were impounded in March 2015, the petition filed through advocates Ejaz Maqbool, Raghavendra M Bajaj and Garima Bajaj, said. She has been residing with her husband in France since 2009 on the basis of French Residency card issued to her for 10 years, her plea said and had added that all three of their children have been accepted as citizens of that country and French passports have been issued to them. The petition had said that the French Residency Card issued to her was due to expire in June 2019. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The number of government employees, including defence personnel, registered as 'service voters' has seen a substantial increase since February this year and the maximum belong to the ministry of defence, EC data shows. As on May 6, when the fifth phase of Lok Sabha elections concluded, nearly 18 lakh employees had enrolled as service voters. In February this year, the Election Commission (EC) had said that a total of 16,62,993 service personnel have been enrolled as Service Electors in the country in the electoral roll 2019. In 2014, the corresponding figure was 13,27,627. The Ministry of Defence led with 10,16,245 service voters, followed by the Ministry of Home Affairs with 7,82,595 and Ministry of External Affairs with 3,539, according to the latest data. The state police has a poor representation with 267 personnel registered as service voters. Personnel of the armed forces, central armed police forces and state police personnel deployed outside their constituencies are considered as service voters. Diplomats and other support staff serving in Indian embassies abroad are also service voters. A provision in the Representation f the People Act (Amendment) Bill, 2017, passed by Lok Sabha and pending in Rajya Sabha, relates to spouses of service voters. As of now, an armyman's wife is entitled to be enrolled as a service voter, but a woman army officer's husband is not. But the bill proposes to replace the term wife' with spouse', thus making the provision gender neutral. The wife of a service voter, if she is residing with him, is also entitled to be enrolled as a service voter in the constituency specified by that person. But children and other relatives residing with a service voter cannot be enrolled as service voters, according to the Election Commission website. The bill is set to lapse with the dissolution of the 16th Lok Sabha by month-end. Accepting a long-pending demand, government had in October 2016 amended electoral rules to allow service voters, including armed forces personnel, to get their postal ballot through electronic means to save valuable time. This would mean that service voters can now download the blank post ballot sent to them electronically, mark their preference and post the filled-up ballot back to their respective returning officers. This would cut short the delay experienced in the present system of two-way transmission of ballot paper by the postal services, official sources said here. Two-way electronic transmission was not recommended by the Election Commission for security and secrecy reasons. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) BJP president Amit Shah Thursday said Narendra Modi should be brought back as prime minister as only he can ensure national security. Shah also accused the Samajwadi Party and the Bahujan Samaj Party of favouring certain castes and working for them, and stressed contrary to this, the BJP believes in the mantra of 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas'. Wielding the nationalism plank as he addressed multiple election rallies, the BJP chief told people that only Modi is capable of keeping the country safe and teaching terrorists a lesson, as he described Modi as a "man with 56 inch chest". He also asserted the BJP government, if voted back to power, will scrap Article 370, which gives special powers to Jammu and Kashmir. The BJP president spell out the central government's development and welfare projects such as providing free LPG connections, health insurance under Ayushman Bharat, construction of toilets, but it was his emphasis on the national security that drew loudest response from the crowd. He also jeered opposition leaders- from "Rahul baba" to "Akhilesh babu"- alleging the Balakot air strikes caused as much deep sorrow in their offices as in Pakistan because they feared their "vote banks" will be upset with the attacks on terrorist camps in the neighbouring country. "The Modi government has done so much of development work. But if there is one issue for which you have to ensure that Modi returns as prime minister, then it is national security. Only he can ensure the national security," Shah said at Balrampur. When terrorists from across the border would target Indian soldiers, there would not be any reaction from the then Indian prime minister Manmohan Singh,he alleged, attacking the opposition. Targeting the SP-BSP alliance, he said both regional parties are devoted to casteism and family rule and only worked for development of one caste or another when they ruled Uttar Pradesh separately for over two decades. Addressing an election meeting in Balrampur in support of party candidate Daddan Mishra, the BJP president said, "The SP and BSP are casteist and dynastic parties. When one party was in power, it favoured a specific caste and worked for it. "Similarly, when the second (party) was in power, it favoured another caste. The work of the society took a backseat," he said. But, on the contrary, he said, "The BJP believes in mantra of 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas', and it never asked the caste (of any person) while undertaking developmental work." They never worked for the development of society, he said,asserting the BJP government under Yogi Aadityanath has been working for the progress of all sections of society since it came to power in 2017. Seeking vote in the prime minister's name, Shah claimed that Modi had not taken leave in 20 years and worked for 18 hours a day. Taking a dig at rival leaders, he said Rahul Gandhi and Akhilesh Yadav go on vacation in foreign countries when the weather hots up. Showering praises on Prime Minister, Shah said, "The Modi-Modi slogan, which can be heard across the country, is mot merely an election slogan. This is the blessings of the countrymen on Modiji. The slogan tells that, when counting of votes will take place on May 23, Modiji will be the next Prime Minister." Shah also alleged that during the tenure of the SP, the BSP and the Congress, the poor people could not afford treatment in absence of money. "Modiji brought Ayushman Bharat Yojana," he said, claiming that within four months lakhs of people have availed of the benefit of free treatment. "The poor people have got a right to live," he said. Referring to the law and order situation in the state, the BJP chief said, "Earlier it was the policemen, who were afraid of criminals. But, after Yogi Adityanath came to power, the criminals have started fearing the police and are requesting the cops to arrest them and not kill them in encounters." He also accused the past governments of the SP and the BSP of turning a blind eye to land grabbers. "After the formation of the Yogi Adityanath government, work of protecting the land of the poor has started. We have also put an end to illegal abattoirs in the state," he said. "The security of the country is of top priority to us. If a bullet (goli) comes to us from Pakistan, our people will retaliate with a shell (golaa)," he said amid applause from the crowd. Shah also claimed that UP during the Sonia-Manmohan era got Rs 3.30 lakh crore, whereas when Modi became the prime minister, UP got funds amounting to Rs 10.27 lakh crore. The BJP chief also mentioned that it was the saffron party, which gave 10 per cent reservation to the economically weaker sections without disturbing the quota for the backward people. Shrawasti, spread over Bhinga, Shrawasti, Tulsipur, Gainsari and Balrampur assembly segments, goes to polls on May 12 in the sixth phase. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Terming the BJP overconfident, Congress leader Kumari Selja says the ruling party's chest thumping and event management will result in its defeat in the Lok Sabha elections. In 2014, there was a sense of fatigue about the UPA which had been in power for a long time and people believed Narendra Modi's promises but things have changed now, said the Rajya Sabha MP and Congress' Ambala candidate. "The BJP is all about chest thumping and event management. Less work more publicity. They are overconfident and failed to see the ground reality. They are living in a different world. All these will become reasons behind their defeat," she told PTI. Selja, a three-time Lok Sabha MP from Haryana, also accused the BJP of taking refuge behind the armed forces and said her party had never done that. Modi went for feasts uninvited to Pakistan and got Pathankot in return. Now, when the Pulwama terror attack has happened, the BJP is taking refuge behind the armed forces. The Congress has never done that. No party should do that," she said referring to the terror attack on the Pathankot Air Force station in 2016 and the Pulwama suicide attack in February this year. Commenting on promises of 'achhe din' and employment generation made by the BJP in the last parliamentary elections, Selja said, "When the top man (Modi) talks of selling pakodas, it is laughable...don't people recall the promises he made about jobs and so-called 'achhe din'. The 57-year-old Congress leader claimed a different narrative was unleashed in the country in 2014 and could not be repeated in 2019. "Last time, the kind of untruth told to people was never done before in the country. The top man (Modi)... did not shy from making false promises...that too with great confidence...then people had developed fatigue towards the UPA that had been in power for very long and people happened to believe his promises. But now things have changed," she said. "In Haryana, they promised the moon...you see the condition of farmers and the poor. Nothing was done for them. People tell me they were asked to build toilets and were promised money in return, which they did not receive," she added. The former Union minister asserted that elections in the state will see a ripple effect of the violence that took place during the Jat reservation agitation two years ago and people could see through the BJP's divide and rule policy. "Their intention was to divide society. They burnt the state but people are wiser now. The way it was handled, people have seen through their policy of divide and rule," she said. Selja is pitted against sitting BJP MP Rattan Lal Kataria and Prithvi Singh of the JJP-AAP alliance. She was elected Lok Sabha MP from Sirsa in 1991 and then elected for two terms in 2004 and 2009 from Ambala, a reserved constituency. Polling in Haryana's 10 constituencies will take place on May 12. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Pakistan government on Thursday offered to send Rooh Afza, the staple Iftar drink, to India, following reports of short supply of the popular rose-flavoured beverage in the Indian market. "If the supply of Rooh-Afza from Pakistan quenches their (Indians) thirst, then we will certainly want to do so," Foreign Office spokesman Mohammad Faisal told reporters during his weekly media briefing here. Earlier in the day, RoohAfza-maker Hamdard Laboratories India said in New Delhi that its popular drink is now available in the market after a temporary shortage due to short supply of certain herbal ingredients. On Tuesday, Hamdard Laboratories Pakistan also offered to supply Rooh Afza to India via Wagah border in Amritsar in view of its shortage for the ongoing Ramzan period. "We can supply RoohAfza and RoohAfzaGO to India during this Ramdan. We can easily send trucks through Wahga border if permitted by Indian Government," Usama Qureshi, MD and CEO of Pakistani Hamdard, tweeted. The Hamdards in India and Pakistan have common ancestry. In 1906, Hakeem Hafiz Abdul Majeed had laid the foundation of Hamdard Dawakhana in one of the by lanes of Old Delhi and in 1907 launched RoohAfza. Following partition of the Indian subcontinent in 1947, his elder son stayed in India, while the younger one migrated to Pakistan and started Hamdard in Karachi and launched RoohAfza there. Meanwhile, Hamdard Laboratories India in a statemenmt said, "RoohAfza is now available in the market and can be bought from major retail stores and grocery outlets across the country." "The organisation urges discerning consumers and the trade not to be misled by incorrect information being circulated online and in print about non-availability of RoohAfza," it added. PTI Rooh Afza, a popular beverage in Pakistan as well as India, has been reportedly in short supply in the Indian market. According to reports published in Indian publication, The Print, the staple Iftar drink Rooh Afza is not available for purchase in India for over four months now. And this has prompted the beverage producer in Pakistan to offer help. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Border Security Force (BSF) Thursday arrested a Pakistan intruder along the International Border in Jammu and Kashmir's Samba district, officials said. Troops of BSF observed some movement along the IB near a forward area and nabbed a person, they said. During preliminary investigation, he was identified as Mohmmad Afzal of Shakergarh district of Pakistan. He has been handed over to police for further interrogation, they said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Pakistan has an important role to play in the ongoing Afghan peace process, the Acting US Defense Secretary Patrick Shanahan told lawmakers Wednesday with another top American general opposing any move to withdraw troops from the war-torn country. General Joseph Dunford, the Chairman of US Joint Chiefs of Staff, agreed with Shanahan during a Senate Committee hearing on the country's defense budget for the fiscal year 2020 beginning October 1, when Senator Lindsay Graham asked a question on the ongoing Afghan peace process. "It's in our national security interest to have a counterterrorism platform. Do you agree that we'll never get a peaceful resolution until Pakistan denies the Taliban's safe haven?" Graham asked during the Congressional hearing. "I believe Pakistan plays an important role," Shanahan said in response. "I do (agree), senator," Dunford said. Responding to a question, Shanahan agreed ISISK is getting larger, not smaller in Afghanistan and a counterterrorism platform is still required in the war-torn country. Shanahan said the current South Asia strategy of President Trump offers the best chance for peace in Afghanistan. "Our current policy remains the South Asia strategy. Our best chance for peace, and this is probably the best in 40 years, is taking place right now. I would say our policy is to fight and talk. We're fighting the Taliban to pressure them into a reduction in violence," he said. The United States is making progress on its South Asia policy, he said. "Do you anticipate US forces coming home from Afghanistan anytime soon, or are we looking at an indefinite garrison type situation? How would you explain our current policy and the conditions for US withdrawal for the American people in a clear and simple way?" Senator Tom Udall asked. General Dunford insisted that the US policy should be to put pressure on terrorist groups that pose threat to the US. "It's my judgment today, based on the threat from South Asia, that we need to continue to put pressure on those terrorist groups or they'll pose a threat to the United States," he said. "I know it's frustrating to you and the American people for us to be there for such a long period of time. It's just my judgment right now that the conditions for a complete withdrawal aren't there," he said. "The conditions for continuing to decrease our presence in the region as we have and increase the responsibility of, in this case, the Afghan forces to provide security for themselves, I think we can expect that to happen," he added. "While I'm not anything other than realistic about the current negotiations we have and the peace process, it is the first time in many, many years where we've had some opportunity now to pursue a peaceful resolution to the war in Afghanistan. And at the end of the day, I don't believe there is a military solution, and I think will need to maintain a counterterrorism presence as long as an insurgency continues in Afghanistan," Dunford said. Dunford said that there are about 20 groups in the region that he would describe as violent extremist groups. A handful of those groups have clearly demonstrated the intent to attack the homeland and to attack American citizens. The pressure that US's counterterrorism efforts have put on those groups over the last years have prevented another 9/11, he noted. "Difficult to prove, but from the time I've spent Afghanistan -- I have been a commander there -- I am confident, if you want to think about this in terms of term insurance, once you stop paying the premium, you no longer have insurance. What we are doing in Afghanistan today, in my judgment, is a commensurate level of effort to threat," Dunford told the lawmakers. / -- Paras Healthcare MD, Dr D. Nagar inaugurated the Cancer Care Centre; the centre comprises 20 bunk beds and washrooms In order to ease the economic burden on cancer patients, the hospital took this philanthropic step; the hospital shall provide food at a cost as low as 20 rupees Paras HMRI hospital , Raja Bazaar, Patna has made arrangements to provide free accommodation to not just cancer patients being treated at its cancer centre but their relatives/acquaintances as well, within the hospital premises. The centre has been named Cancer Care Centre. The building was inaugurated by Dr D. Nagar, Managing Director, Paras Health Care. It is now open as a dormitory which houses 20 beds for both males and females. However, separate arrangements have been made for female patients. The centre consists of bunk beds with bed frames stacked on top of each other. Patients will be accommodated on the lower frames while their relatives will be able to occupy the upper frames of the bed. It has been ensured that the centre also has proper and hygienic washrooms. The arrangements have been made with intent to relieve patients of additional economic burden. (Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/535431/Paras_Healthcare_Logo.jpg ) Dr. Talat Halim, Regional Director, Paras HMRI Hospital said, "At the centre, there are beds for patients as well as their relatives. However, there is no such provision to cook food inside the centre. The hospital shall provide food at subsidised rates, where each plate will cost a patient a meagre 20 rupees. One will be able to have rice, lentils and cooked vegetables twice a day (morning and night) at this cost." Dr Halim further added, "Radiotherapy and chemotherapy go on for long in the treatment of cancer. In such situations, it gets difficult for patients and their relatives to continue treatment. Hence, in order to help them cut down the additional cost, we have opened the centre. Patients will also be able to wash their own clothes as there is a facility for the same. Besides, arrangements will be made to increase the number of existing beds in case the number of patients increases." About Paras HealthcareParas Healthcare was founded in 2006. The key specialties that are mainly focused in all units are - cancer care, neurology, neurosurgery, orthopaedics & joint replacement, urology, nephrology, kidney transplant, cardiology, cardiac sciences, gastroenterology & GI surgery, general & lap surgery along with plastic surgery to list a few. Approximately each unit has at least 30 specialties and super specialties. For more information, visit https://www.parashospitals.com/Source: Paras Healthcare Pvt. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A jetliner flown by a subsidiary of that made an in Iran stayed on the ground for several hours Wednesday before flying to Dubai, according to the airline. The Airbus A340 flown by the low-cost carrier Joon was heading from Paris to Mumbai when it landed in the central Iran city of Isfahan. Joon said in a statement that the plane, operating as flight AF218, landed out of precaution over a malfunctioning ventilation circuit. Iran's state-run IRNA news agency said local authorities provided services to passengers. It said all were in good health. said the plane was checked by local maintenance teams and then departed for Al Maktoun International Airport in Dubai, where it was expected to arrive early Thursday. said it would re-route passengers to Mumbai on other airlines as soon as possible. In December, a Norwegian Air made an in Iran while flying from Dubai to Oslo. Passengers were able to leave the following day, but Norwegian's US-made jet stayed in Iran for several weeks awaiting repairs. The airline cited paperwork involved in shipping aircraft parts to Iran because of US sanctions against Tehran's nuclear program. NCP chief Sharad Pawar on Thursday raised concerns over the use of electronic voting machines (EVMs) in polls, claiming he himself had once seen during a presentation that a vote cast for his party went in the BJP's favour. Pawar, however, said he did not claim that all EVMs function in such a way. "I am also concerned about the machine. In Hyderabad and Gujarat, some people kept an EVM before me and asked me to press a button. "I pressed the button against 'watch' (the NCP's symbol) and the vote got cast in favour of 'lotus' (the BJP's symbol). I saw it happening myself," Pawar told reporters here. The former Union minister and other opposition leaders have been voicing concerns over the use of EVMs, claiming the machines were prone to manipulation. The NCP and other 20 opposition parties also recently approached the Supreme Court seeking a review of its April 8 order directing the Election Commission to increase random matching of VVPAT slips with EVMs to five polling booths per Assembly segment. The plea was filed by opposition leaders led by Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu. Senior advocate and Congress leader A M Singhvi, appearing for petitioners, told the bench that the apex court increased the random matching of VVPAT slips with EVMs to five polling booths per Assembly segment and they are now seeking that it should be increased to 25 per cent at least. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Vice President Mike Pence said Wednesday that the Trump administration intends to challenge the right of federal district courts to issue rulings blocking nationwide policies, arguing that such injunctions are obstructing President Donald Trump's agenda on immigration, health care and other issues. In a speech at the Federalist Society conference in Washington, Pence argued that nationwide injunctions issued by federal judges "prevent the executive branch from acting, compromising our national security by obstructing the lawful ability of the president to stop threats to the homeland where he sees them." He said the administration will seek opportunities to put this question before the Supreme Court "to ensure that decisions affecting every American are made either by those elected to represent the American people or by the highest court in the land." Top administration officials have often complained about the proliferation of nationwide injunctions since Trump became president, so the idea of pushing back is not new. Indeed, the administration has asked the Supreme Court to deal with nationwide injunctions in the past, including in the travel ban case. But the court never addressed the nationwide extent of the injunction against the ban issued by lower courts because the justices upheld the ban in its entirety. For the Supreme Court to issue a definitive ruling on nationwide injunctions, it would first have to rule against the administration on the underlying merits of the case before it. Only at that point could the court consider whether a lower court order should apply nationwide or only to the people who are challenging an administration policy. A nationwide injunction has the effect of stopping "a federal policy everywhere," the administration told the Supreme Court in the travel ban case. The more common practice is for a judge to issue an order that gives only the people who sued what they want. A White House official said the administration would be looking for potential relevant cases to press the issue, and said Pence also discussed it at the end of the Cabinet meeting convened by the president on Wednesday. In his remarks, Pence quoted from an opinion by Justice Clarence Thomas, who joined the majority opinion upholding the Trump travel ban last June, but also wrote separately to say nationwide injunctions "are legally and historically dubious" and that the high court would have to step in "if federal courts continue to issue them." Trump has long railed against district courts, especially the 9th Circuit, for blocking his initiatives, including efforts to overhaul the nation's immigration system. At a re-election rally Wednesday night in Florida, Trump said, "Activist judges who issue nationwide injunctions based on their personal beliefs undermine democracy and threaten the rule of law." But Trump won a 2-1 ruling from the 9th Circuit on Tuesday that allows the administration to make asylum seekers wait in Mexico for immigration court hearings while a court challenge continues. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A pilgrim from Gujarat died of a heart attack while returning from the Himalayan temple of Yamunotri in Uttarakhand. Mahendra Bhai (57), a resident of Ahmedabad, reached Janki Chatti along with his family after visiting Yamunotri on Wednesday evening, Badkot police station SHO D S Kohli said. He fell ill at night and was rushed to a health centre at Badkot where he was declared dead by doctors, the SHO said. His body was sent to Nagaon for post-mortem. The portals of Yamunotri were reopened after the winter break on the occasion of Akshay Tritiya on May 7. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Goa unit of the BJP Thursday filed a complaint with the state Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) against Congress' Panaji assembly bypoll candidate Atanasio Monserratte for allegedly not publishing in media the criminal cases pending against him. As per the Supreme Court order passed in September 2018, election candidates who have offences registered against them, are mandated to publish their criminal records at least three times in newspapers and electronic media after filing their nomination. A BJP delegation led by state general secretary, Sadanand Tanavade, met Goa CEO Kunal Thursday afternoon to lodge a complaint against Monserratte. BJP's Goa unit chief Vinay Tendulkar, who signed the complaint copy on behalf of the party, said Monserratte and the Congress party have violated the mandatory provisions laid down by the Election Commission of India (ECI) about making the candidates' criminal records public. He said Monserratte could face contempt of court for not adhering to the SC directives. "We demand that the CEO takes strong cognisance of the same and direct both- the Congress party and its candidate- to comply with the Supreme Court directions immediately, failing which necessary action be initiated," Tendulkar said. According to him, Monserratte has clearly declared in his affidavit that there are criminal cases pending against him under various sections of the IPC, the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, the Income Tax Act, Prevention of Damage to Public Property Act and others. Speaking to reporters after filing the complaint, Tanavade said it is brought to the notice of CEO that neither the Congress nor its candidate have published in the media the criminal cases pending against him. "The CEO assured us that he would direct the North District Election officer to take necessary action in the matter," he said. When contacted, Monserratte said he will follow all the due procedures and that the BJP need not worry about it. "The BJP has lost balance, as they know that they are losing the Panaji seat. Hence, they are using all sort of tricks to seek attention," he said. The former minister said he has not denied any criminal cases against him. The by-election to Panaji assembly segment will be held on May 19. The constituency has been ruled by the BJP since 1994 under late Chief Minister late Manohar Parrikar, who died in March this year. The ruling BJP has fielded Siddhart Kunkolienkar for the by-election. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Prime Minister Narendra Modi had promised before the last Lok Sabha polls to reopen the only salt mines of north India in Himachal Pradesh but he did nothing about it in the last five years, state Congress president Kuldeep Singh Rathore said Thursday. "Modi should tell the electorate of this hill state during his Mandi rally (on Friday) why the closed salt mines in Drang of Mandi district did not become operational as promised by him during his poll rallies in Himachal Pradesh in 2014," he told reporters here. None of the salt mines in the state were reopened in the last five years of the Modi government, he alleged. The natural rock salt mines at Drang and Gumma were closed due to certain lapses by the Hindustan Salts Limited (HSL), a central government enterprise. "Modi should also tell the residents of Himachal Pradesh why he could not hike the import duty on apples as promised by him during his poll rally in Solan in 2014," Rathore said. The Congress's state unit claimed that Modi had promised to hike import duty on apples from 50 to 75 per cent for the benefit of apple growers in Himachal Pradesh. Rathore claimed that apples were imported from foreign countries in plenty in the last five years of the Modi government and this caused huge losses to apple growers in the state. However, BJP state vice president Ganesh Dutt claimed that the file in regard to hiking import duty on apples was closed in 2011 by the then Manmohan Singh-led government. The present import tariff on apples is 50 per cent which is a "bound rate of duty agreed in General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade, and World Trade Organisation", he told PTI. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Four prisoners were killed during a riot at a northern Myanmar jail, officials said Thursday, coming on the heels of an amnesty which saw more than 6,000 inmates released -- including high-profile Reuters reporters Wa Lone and Kyaw Soe Oo. The unrest at Sagaing region's Shwe Bo prison began on Wednesday evening, said chief minister Myint Naing. "They were demanding for equal rights. They became anarchic," he said, adding that everything was now "under control". Myint did not say how the prisoners died. Military spokesman Zaw Min Tun said border affairs officials were called in to "control" the situation. "We heard there was some shooting," he said, adding that there were also reports of unrest in jails in Karen and Kachin states. The violence in Shwe Bo comes days after more than 6,000 people were freed in the latest round of presidential pardons -- part of an annual prisoner amnesty granted by Myanmar President Win Myint. According to local newspaper Eleven Media, prison department director Min Tun Soe said the riots were triggered over the inmate anger at not being included in the amnesty. In total, 23,000 prisoners were released in three rounds of pardons since April 17. The majority of those released are usually serving time for petty drug crimes, but Tuesday's release included Reuters reporters Wa Lone and Kyaw Soe Oo, who were jailed after reporting on the Rohingya crisis in northern Rakhine state. Myanmar has freed thousands since a military junta ceded power in 2011 after five decades of brutal repression. Former prisoners have denounced conditions in Myanmar's overcrowded prisons as abysmal. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Behind every successful man is a woman. Priyadarshini Scindia, wife of sitting Guna MP Jyotiraditya Scindia, who has been renominated by the Congress from the seat for the polls on May 12, is out to prove the proverb right as she goes from door-to-door, canvassing for her better half. Guna, considered the pocket borough of the Scindias -- the erstwhile royal family of Gwalior, was one of the only two seats that the Congress managed to bag in the 2014 Lok Sabha elections in Madhya Pradesh. The other seat won by the party was Chhindwara. Priyadarshini Scindia started campaigning in February, even before the Election Commission of India announced the parliamentary polls, giving Jyotiraditya Scindia a head start over his rivals. The Guna MP was appointed the All India Congress Committee general secretary in-charge for western Uttar Pradesh earlier this year. With her husband pre-occupied with party affairs in the northern state, Priyadarshini Scindia took charge. She has been reaching out to a cross-section of voters, listening to their woes and telling them about the work done by their MP. Her close involvement with the campaign even triggered speculation that she may be formally entering this year. Asked about the conjecture, state Congress spokesperson Pankaj Chaturvedi, known to be close to Jyotiraditya Scindia, told PTI, "This is to be decided by the Scindia family and the Congress. But after seeing her interaction and instant connection with local party workers and common citizens at large, I can certainly say that the Congress has got a leader." Chaturvedi said Priyadarshini Scindia has been interacting closely with voters. "Priyadarshini ji has been visiting an average of 10-12 villages on most weekdays since February and has reached out to almost every corner of Guna parliamentary seat," he said. "She collects information about the local problems and informs the people about the work done by Scindia ji. She has been interacting with different communities and social groups," he added. In Madhya Pradesh Assembly polls last year, the Congress did exceedingly well in Gwalior-Chambal region, considered a bastion of the Scindia family. However, its vote share in Guna was less than the BJP's. The Congress bagged five of the eight assembly segments in Guna but it polled 16,000 votes less than the BJP. In 2014, Scindia had won this seat with a margin of around 1 lakh votes. Chaturvedi, however, does not attach much importance to this. "The entry of Scindia ji in the electoral contest decisively tilted the scales in his favour. There is no significance of assembly poll results," he said. The BJP has fielded K P Yadav, a former Congressman who joined the saffron party earlier this year after being denied ticket for Mungaoli assembly bypoll. Guna BJP president Gajendra Sikarwar exuded confidence that Scindia will not be able to retain the seat this time. "Scindia has been representing Guna in Parliament for the past one-and-a-half decade, but did nothing for this region. Now people are asking for an account of his work," Sikarwar told PTI. "Only (Prime Minister Narendra) Modi can save the country and people have started realising this now. Besides, there is huge impact of the development work carried out by the NDA government. People are going to vote to elect a nationalist government," he added. Since 1952, members of the Scindia family have won 14 times from Guna seat. Jyotiraditya Scindia first contested the bypoll from this constituency in 2002, following his father's death in a plane crash. He has held onto the seat ever since. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Kerala police chief Thursday ordered a detailed probe into the alleged manipulation of April 23 Lok Sabha postal votes of police officers. The investigation was ordered by DGP Loknath Behera after Kerala Chief Electoral Officer Teeka Ram Meena, directed him to conduct a more detailed inquiry into the charges and file a report by May 15. Behera had earlier forwarded a report prepared by the Intelligence chief on the alleged manipulation of the postal ballots of the police officers, to Meena. "Prima facie it seems like there are issues in the postal ballots. The role of the Police Association also has to be probed," Meena told reporters Thursday. A press release from the police department said Behera had asked the Crime Branch chief to register a case and probe into the matter. "After registering the case, action will be taken against those who are responsible," the release said. Leader of Opposition in the assembly, Ramesh Chennithala had complained of 'foul play' in the matter, while Kerala PCC President, Mullapally Ramachandran, demanded that a judicial investigation was needed in the matter. Media reports had alleged that some pro-LDF police association office-bearers had collected the postal ballots and distributed it to the policemen, who were on election duty and voted in favour of the left candidates in the elections. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Senior Congress leader and party candidate from Shri Anandpur Sahab, Manish Tewari Thursday said that Punjabis do not need any lessons on nationalism from anyone, much less from Prime Minister Narendra Modi. In an interaction with reporters after attending several party meetings here, Tewari also condemned Modi for "stooping very low to abuse" former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi with "utter lies". "Majority of the freedom fighters who went to jail or laid down their lives for the freedom of the country were Punjabis and all of them were Congressmen," he said when asked how the party was going to counter the "nationalist narrative" of the BJP. Asking Modi to name a single nationalist who shared the BJP's ideology, Tewari said the saffron party "stood nowhere" in comparison to the Congress when it came to sacrificing lives for the unity and integrity of the country. "Ms Indira Gandhi, Rajiv Gandhi, late Beant Singh, my father Prof Vishwanath Tewari and scores of other Congressmen have laid down their lives for the country," he pointed out. "Can Mr Modi mention a single BJP leader who has laid down his life for the country?," he asked. Refusing to comment on Akali candidate Prem Singh Chandumajra's claim that Shri Anandpur Sahab was a 'panthic' seat, Tewari stressed that for him, every seat in Punjab was panthic as everyone believes in the panthic ideals of universal brotherhood and non-discrimination. Maintaining that Chandumajra was entitled to his own opinion, the Congress leader said his opponent was feeling frustrated over the resentment he was facing from people in the constituency. At several places, people have confronted him (Chandumajra) with "go back" slogans as he has completely failed them during the last five years, Tewari claimed. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi and her Indian counterpart Sushma Swaraj are likely to interact during the upcoming meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) in Kyrgyzstan later this month, a top Pakistani official said Thursday. "The two foreign ministers would be present in the meeting and in all likelihood would interact amongst themselves and with other leaders," Foreign Office spokesman Mohammad Faisal told the media here. But he hastened to clarify that "no formal meeting is, however, envisaged". The SCO Ministerial meeting will take place in Kyrgyzstan on May 21-22. The economic and security grouping was founded at a summit in Shanghai in 2001 by the presidents of Russia, China, Kyrgyz Republic, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan. India and Pakistan became its members in 2017. In September, India called off a meeting between Swaraj and Qureshi at the UN citing the release of postal stamps "glorifying" a Kashmiri militant by Pakistan as one of the reasons. The Indo-Pak tensions escalated in recent months after a terror attack in Pulwama by Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed terror group that killed 40 CRPF soldiers on February 14 and a subsequent aerial strike by India on a JeM training camp in Balakot on February 26. On February 27, the Pakistan Air Force retaliated by unsuccessfully targeting several military installations in Jammu and Kashmir. In the dogfight, Pakistan downed a MiG-21 Bison jet and captured an IAF pilot, who was handed over to India on March 1. Faisal also alleged that India was "causing an arms race in the region". "India has been trying to bring the region into an arms race. Let me say that an increase in the defence budget is not the sole determinant of a nation's strength," he said. Responding to a question that an Italian journalist claimed that 45 Pakistanis were injured in the Balakot attack, Faisal, "there is no truth in such statements." Responding to a question about Indian Minister for Water Resources saying that India will not allow even a single drop of water to flow into Pakistan, Faisal said the Indus Waters Treaty was signed by both the countries and India was in "violation of that Treaty in the case of Kishanganga and Ratle Hydro Electric Power Projects." "We have already raised this matter at the dispute resolution mechanism of the World Bank. However, the matter has not been resolved, as yet. Pakistan wishes that the Indus Waters Treaty should be allowed to function and the dispute resolution mechanism should take its due course. We urge the World Bank to empanel the Court of Arbitration, so that a resolution is reached in this regard, he said. Regarding the foreign secretary meeting with the Indian High Commissioner a day earlier at the Foreign Office, he said, "let me apprise you that such meetings occur regularly to discuss various evolving issues. I cannot disclose the detailed agenda as it does not fall in the media domain". Faisal also confirmed that Christian woman Aasia Bibi left Pakistan but refused to give the date when she left or the country where she went. He also said Pakistan supported a political solution to the Afghan conflict and consistently maintained the position that an Afghan-led and Afghan-owned peace process was the only way forward. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Centre on Thursday told the Supreme Court that a plea for perjury action against unknown public servants for allegedly misleading the court during Rafale case hearing was "completely misconceived" as media reports and some "incomplete internal file notings" cannot be the basis for such proceedings. In a reply affidavit submitted in the apex court on the application filed by former Union ministers Yashwant Sinha and Arun Shourie and activist lawyer Prashant Bhushan, the Centre said the allegations of making false statements and suppressing facts from the court were "completely false" and "baseless". The government said its submissions in the court were based on records, while the petitioners were relying on "selective leaks" in media from the Ministry of Defence files on opinions expressed by individual officers or a group of officers and this presents an "incomplete picture" on matters relating to national security and defence. "On facts as well, the contention of the petitioners that the officials of the answering respondent (Centre) have made false statements and suppressed evidence while submitting information on 'decision making process', 'offsets' and 'pricing' pursuant to orders passed by this court is completely false, baseless and an attempt to intimidate government servants from performing their duty on this ground alone, the application is liable to be dismissed," it said. A bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi is scheduled to hear on Friday the pleas seeking review of its December 14 last year verdict in the Rafale case along with applications seeking perjury action against unknown government servants and production of certain documents before the court. On December 14 last year, the apex court had dismissed the plea filed by Sinha, Shourie and Bhushan seeking probe into alleged irregularities in the multi-crore Rafale fighter jet deal. In its reply to the application seeking perjury action, the Centre has said that "in view of dismissal of the main writ petition, the present application which has been filed is not at all maintainable." The Centre said that "all the averments made before the Supreme Court were based on (a) the final decisions taken by the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) and the CCS note which formed the basis of this decision, (b) final decisions by the Raksha Mantri (RM) and Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), (c) provisions in defence procurement procedure and (d) inputs received from the Indian Air Force and other constituent offices of the Ministry of Defence". "There is no act of perjury involved in the submissions made before the Supreme Court as the submissions are based on records," it said, adding, "The information provided to the court is after due approval of the competent authorities based on records, documents and decisions." The affidavit alleged that petitioners were "deliberately providing incomplete and selective information" and altering the sequence of events of procurement process to misled the apex court and the public. "It is submitted that placing reliance on some media reports and some incomplete internal file notings procured unauthorisedly and illegally, the petitioners cannot seek to re-open the whole matter by filing false and frivolous applications and terming it as 'perjury' and attempt to get a fishing and roving inquiry ordered, which this court has specifically declined to go into based on perceptions of individuals," it said. It also said that media reports cannot form the basis for seeking initiation of perjury proceedings since it is well settled that courts do not take decisions on the basis of media reports. The affidavit said that plea seeking perjury action was "completely misconceived and liable to be dismissed". "The contents of the briefs/responses were based on official records/files/inputs from various constituents/ affiliated entities within the MoD such as DoMW, DDP for offsets, the IAF and the HQIDS which acts as the Secretariat of the DAC and the same were finalised after extensive deliberations at the highest levels in government, after a series of meetings," the affidavit said. It said that the petitioners main contention regarding alleged over-priced deal was not supported by the CAG report. Referring to the records, the affidavit said that Centre has no role in the selection of Indian offset partner which is a commercial decision of the original equipment manufacturer. "The concerns raised by members of the INT were deliberated and addressed while ensuring utmost integrity and transparency in the process, allowing opinions to be freely expressed, recorded, discussed and if necessary modified. Aspects pertaining to the responsibility and obligations of French government, pricing, delivery schedule, maintenance terms, offsets, IGA terms etc were discussed and negotiated during these meetings," it said. India signed an agreement with France for the purchase of 36 Rafale fighter aircraft in a fly-away condition as part of the upgrading process of Indian Air Force equipment. The deal is estimated to be about Rs 58,000 crore (about USD 8 billion). The Rafale fighter is a twin-engine Medium Multi Role Combat Aircraft (MMRCA) manufactured by French aerospace company Dassault Aviation. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Himachal Pradesh chief minister Jai Ram Thakur Thursday said Congress chief Rahul Gandhi has "lost his mental balance", in another case of name-calling during these Lok Sabha elections. Addressing a poll rally here, Thakur claimed that party leaders remain tense whenever the Gandhi scion is addressing a rally, fearing that he might cause embarrassment. The Congressmen feel relieved when Rahul completes his speech, Thakur claimed. In contrast, every word of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's speeches is analysed internationally, Thakur said. The chief minister further said that the Congress leadership was in a "pathetic" condition. He said that Modi strengthened the national security and unlike the previous Congress regime, a befitting reply is given to Pakistan if there is a terror attack in India. Due to Narendra Modi's dynamic leadership and successful foreign policy, India is shining on the global platform, Thakur said. Not only is India getting respect from almost every nation in the world, they are carefully listening to us and fully supporting us, he added. Everybody has witnessed this truth after India did Balakot air strikes and whole world was with us, Thakur said. The chief minister expressed hope that in this election, the Bharatiya Janata Party-led National Democratic Alliance will get more seats then what it got in the 2014 general elections. There is 'pro incumbency wave' in the country and the people want to see Narendra Modi as the prime minister once more, he said. Praising the schemes and programmes launched by the Modi government, he said that the efforts of the prime minister's focus has been on the upliftment of the poor, helping middle class and creating jobs by expanding production capacities in the country. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Congress president Rahul Gandhi Thursday hit out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi over unemployment, taunting him for a remark that selling 'pakodas' is a job worth doing. Addressing an election rally here, Gandhi claimed that unemployment in the country is the highest now in 45 years."This is Modi's contribution," he said. "Make in India, start up India, sit down India, pakodas, the Congress leader said, mocking the schemes started by the BJP government at the Centre Initially, he talked about Make in India, then Startup India, then Stand-Up India and finally he ended on pakodas," Gandhi said. In an interview last year, the prime minister had given pakoda-selling as an example of worthwhile employment. Rahul Gandhi also accused Modi of spreading hatred. "Wherever he goes, there is hatred. In Haryana, one community is made to fight against the other. When he goes to Tamil Nadu, he will criticise somebody. In Maharashtra, he will speak against the people of Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. People of one religion are made to fight against the other, Gandhi said. He asked the prime minister to tell what has been achieved in his term. "I want to ask you what you have done in the last five years. What have you given to the country?" Gandhi said. He said Nyay, the minimum income support scheme promised by his party, will not burden the middle class. The scheme promises Rs 72,000 per year to the poorest families in the country. I am giving you the guarantee that not even a single penny will be charged from the middle class and they will not be taxed for the Nyay scheme, he said. The opposition leader said funds for the scheme will come from the pockets of those rich industrialists who have been given undue favours under the Modi regime. The BJP, which has criticised the scheme, has sought to know how it will be funded. Gandhi was addressing the rally in support of Haryana Congress president Ashok Tanwar, who is contesting from Sirsa. Tanwar is pitted against Indian National Lok Dal's sitting MP Charanjeet Singh Rori and Bharatiya Janata Party's Sunita Duggal. Ghulam Nabi Azad, the Congress general secretary in charge of Haryana, also addressed the meeting. Polling for Haryana's 10 Lok Sabha seats will be held in the sixth phase on May 12. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The relative of a victim and a survivor of the 1991 suicide bomber attack which killed former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi Thursday said they are confident Tamil Nadu Governor Banwarilal Purohit will not release the seven life convicts in the assassination case. However, parties, including the DMK, and relatives of the convicts demanded their immediate release. The Congress in Tamil Nadu said there should be no pressure on the Governor over the issue. Hours after the Supreme Court dismissed their plea objecting to the State government's 2014 decision recommending release of the seven convicts,they exuded confidence that justice will be done. A bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi said, "All aspects were covered in the earlier constitution bench verdict in the case and therefore nothing survives in the case." S Abbas, coordinator of the families of victims and the petitioner in the case in the apex court, said the judgment saddened him. "We are consulting on aspects like possibility of preferring an appeal. We will take appropriate steps," he said. Abbas, who is the son of Samdhani Begum, a Mahila Congress leader who was among those killed in the attack, said he and members of families of other victims were confident that Purohit will not release the convicts. "If at all they are going to be released eyeing vote bank politics, it will be tantamount to supporting terrorism and will be injustice," he told PTI. He said people like him belong to marginalised sections of the society and hail from a very ordinary family. "Despite difficulties, we went to the level of Supreme Court to stop their release, what else can we do...if they are going to be released what can we do..? We pin our hope on God," he said. "Leaders of political parties are supporting their release eyeing elections to four Assembly segments, it is regrettable," Abbas said. Retired police officer Anusuya Daisy Ernest, a survivor of the attack, said the judgment saddened her, adding she and the victims' kin were contemplating on what could be done next. "I believe in God. We are confident the Governor will do justice for the victims, their families, survivors and all those who were affected by the terror attack that fateful day in 1991," Anusuya, who was a police sub-inspector then, said. She was seriously injured in the attack and to this day has pellets embedded in her body which caused tremendous pain. Just ahead of the blast, Anusuya said, she had tried stopping the assassin Dhanu from coming close to Rajiv Gandhi. She retired as additional police superintendent last year. The retired officer recalled a meeting she and the families of victims had with Purohit last year. "I explained to him the kind of pain I endure due to the serious injuries I sustained in the attack and pleaded with him along with others to not release the convicts," she said. "We trust the governor will not release them," she added. Arputhammal, mother of Perarivalan, one of the convicts, said she was confident that the governor will release all the convicts and welcomed the judgment. Last year when she visited Purohit seeking the release of convicts, Arputhammal said: "Governor told me that he will do it (release the convicts)...I have waited for eight months, and now after this judgment there is a conducive ambience for their release." Tamil Nadu deputy chief minister O Panneerselvam told reporters in Madurai that the government has already taken all steps for their release, including apprising the Centre over the decision to set them free. Tamil Nadu Congress Committee chief K S Alagiri said there were so many Tamils in prisons for over 25 years and "all of them can be released including these seven convicts...we do not have a different opinion." "However, there should be no pressure on either the court or the governor, they must not be forced...if the court says they can be released since they have spent long years in prison, TNCC will welcome it," he told reporters at Tirupur. DMK president M K Stalin said he welcomed the apex court judgment dismissing a plea against the release of the seven Rajiv case convicts. "On behalf of the DMK, I urge governor Purohit to immediately accept the Tamil Nadu Cabinet resolution recommending release of the seven convicts and issue an order for their release," he said, adding that there should be no further delay. There was no bar for the governor now to decide under Article 161 (of the constitution relating to the governor's judicial powers) and there was no avenue either to attribute "any other reason," for not ordering their release, Stalin said. PMK founder S Ramadoss said the release of convicts should not be delayed any more. "Unofficially, Raj Bhavan had cited this pending case in the Supreme Court against the release of the convicts. That case has now been dismissed and there is no bar for their release now," Ramadoss said. Former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi was assassinated by a suicide bomber in Sriperumbudur in Tamil Nadu on May 21, 1991. The AIADMK government had in September 2018 recommended to the governor to release all seven life convicts in the Rajiv Gandhi assassination case. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Islamic preacher Zaik Naik has said he is ready to return to India if the Supreme Court gives an assurance that he would not be arrested till his conviction. Naik is living in Malaysia after fleeing from India in 2016. He has been given permanent resident status by the Malaysian government. In an interview to 'The Week' magazine, the preacher said he has faith in the judicial system, but it was better before than it is now, he added. "Before the BJP government came, you could speak against the government, and at least 80 per cent of the times you would get justice. Today, the chances are 10-20 per cent. "Moreover, if we see the history, more than 90 per cent Muslims who faced terror charges have been let free after 10-15 years. So if I look at an average, I will be behind bars for about 10 years, and my entire mission would get disrupted. Why should I be a fool," he said. The preacher said the NIA can question him in Malaysia, if they want. When asked whether he will return to India if he has an assurance of justice, Naik said,"If there is an assurance from the Supreme Court of India, that if Dr Zakir Naik comes, they will not arrest me till I am convicted, I will come." The preacher was booked by the NIA after his name cropped up during the probe of a terror attack on Gulshan's Holey Artisan Bakery (cafe) in Dhaka's posh diplomatic area, claimed by the Islamic State terror group. Twenty people, mostly foreigners, were killed in the brutal late-night attack on July 1, 2016 after the attackers took diners and restaurant staff hostage. The NIA had registered a case against him and his organisation Islamic Research Foundation (IRF) under anti-terror laws and for allegedly promoting enmity between groups on the basis of religion and race. Naik said he has never told anyone to resort to terrorism. "Have they [the arrested persons] said that I told them to do the bombing? The answer is no. I challenge anyone to say that he was inspired [by me] to kill innocent people. If he is saying that then he is lying," he said when asked about the attackers in Dhaka, Sri Lanka and now a Kerala youth, arrested for planning terror attack, taking his name. On the allegations of money laundering by the Enforcement Directorate, Naik said he has one bank account. "I have several companies and I am actually doing business. Is there a restriction in Indian law that a person cannot own companies? People have 50 companies and sometimes there are no transactions in some," he said. Naik said they are also alleging that he sent money into his personal account. "Now all that money I sent into my account was Rs 49 crore in seven years. I told you my earning is more than a crore a month and I have got a lot of businesses in real estate and other ventures. "It will be a crime if I use some of the money for drugs or terrorism. They said Harmony Media is a factory of terrorism. If it is promoting terrorism then how come the US allowed my channel for so many years," he asked. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Reliance Brands Limited, a subsidiary of Reliance Industries, said Thursday it will acquire Hamleys Global Holdings Limited, the owner of British toy brand Hamleys, for an undisclosed amount. Hamleys, owned by Hong Kong-listed C Banner International Holdings, has 167 stores across 18 countries. In India, Reliance has the master franchise for Hamleys and presently operates 88 stores across 29 cities. The RIL group firm and C Banner International Holdings Thursday signed a definitive agreement for Reliance Brands to acquire 100 per cent shares of Hamleys Global Holdings Limited, Reliance Brands said in a statement. This acquisition will catapult Reliance Brands to be a dominant player in the global toy retail industry, the company said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Mukesh Ambani-led Reliance Industries Thursday announced it will acquire iconic British toy-maker Hamleys for 67.96 million pounds (around Rs 620 crore) in an all-cash deal. Hamleys, a 259-year-old toy-maker, has struggled to generate profits in recent times. It reported a profit after tax of 2.44 million pounds in 2018 after suffering a loss of 11.24 million pounds in 2017. It is currently owned by Chinese fashion conglomerate C Banner International, which had acquired it for 100 million pounds in 2015. C Banner also owns the Chinese units of marquee consumer retail brands such as Steve Madden and Sundance. "Reliance Brands Ltd, a subsidiary of Reliance Industries, and C Banner International Holdings, a Hong Kong-listed company, today signed a definitive agreement for Reliance Brands to acquire 100 per cent shares of Hamleys Global Holdings Ltd, the owner of Hamleys brand, from C Banner International," the company said in a statement. Reliance Brands would acquire 100 per cent equity shares of "Hamleys Global Holdings Limited (HGHL) for a cash consideration of GBP 67.96 million", RIL said in a BSE filing. Hamleys started with a single-store shop, Noah's Ark, in 1760. It now has 167 stores across 18 countries. Besides the UK, it has stores in China, Germany, Russia, India, South Africa and West Asia. Reliance Retail, Ambani's flagship retailer, already has a pan-India franchise agreement with Hamleys to merchandise its famous toys. This acquisition will catapult Reliance Brands to be a dominant player in the global toy retail industry, the company said in a statement. In India, Reliance has the master franchise for Hamleys and presently operates 88 stores across 29 cities. Reliance Brands President and CEO Darshan Mehta said the worldwide acquisition of the iconic Hamleys brand and business places Reliance on the front-line of global retail. Personally, it is a dream come true, he added. "Over the last few years, we have built a very significant and profitable business in toy retailing under the Hamleys brand in India. This 250-year-old English toy retailer pioneered the concept of experiential retailing, decades before the concept of creating unique experiences in brick and mortar retailing became the new global norm," Mehta said. Hamleys was delisted from the London Stock Exchange (LSE) in 2003 when it was taken over by Icelandic investment firm Baugur Group for USD 68.8 million. In 2012, it was sold for USD 78.4 million to Groupe Ludendo of France.? Hamleys opened it flagship Regent Street London store in 1881. This flagship store is set over seven floors covering 54,000 sq ft, with over 50,000 lines of toys on sale. It is considered one of London's prominent tourist attractions, receiving over 5 million visitors each year. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The second Advisory Forum on National Reconciliation and Peace in Myanmar ended yesterday in the capital Naypyidaw. Aung San Suu Kyi hopes to see "mutual respect among the different races and religions". For Fr Joseph Maung Win, "Religion is not the problem, but the solution". Pope Franciss visit is bearing fruit. Naypyidaw (AsiaNews) State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi and Myanmars religious leaders have jointly appealed for unity and mutual understanding at the Advisory Forum on National Reconciliation and Peace in Myanmar (pictured), an event organised by the group Religions for Peace-Myanmar (RfP-M). Held in Naypyidaw on 7-8 May, the forum saw participants discuss five main topics: access to education, empowering women and young people, building unity among the countrys various ethnic groups, acceptance of the importance of different faiths, and the ongoing issues in Rakhine State. Conflicts between distinct ethnic-religious communities persist in Myanmar, where 90 per cent of the population is Buddhist. Fighting continues between Rohingya Muslims and Buddhists in Rakhine State, between rebel armies in Shan; and between the Arakan Army (AA) and Myanmars military also in Rakhine. In addition, some Christian minorities face difficulties. In her opening speech at the forum, Aung San Suu Kyi said that mutual respect among the different races and religions will improve peaceful and stable livelihoods and prevent religious conflict. She added that there is a need to help those affected by the conflicts to rehabilitate and to participate and cooperate in nation building. Religious leaders agreed with the Nobel Prize laureates views. Our society needs peace in this time, when hate speech is easily available. The religious leaders of different faiths have a responsibility to right the people, said Al Haj U Aye Lwin, the chief convener of the Islamic Centre of Myanmar. Archbishop of Yangon Card Charles Bo, who is a patron of RfP-Myanmar, said the group vows to continue working to achieve peace. In fact, another forum is planned for November. "In recent years we have seen clear improvements in the way the authorities counter ideologies that incite hatred, said Fr Joseph Maung Win, general secretary of RfP-M and director of the Karuna Mission Social Solidarity (Myanmars Caritas] in the archdiocese of Yangon, speaking to AsiaNews. Religion is not the problem, but a solution. In the past, the government exploited religious sentiment but now we are witnessing a new trend: the leaders of the various confessions have become influential and important actors in the reconciliation process." According to Fr Win, there is also a direct correlation between the countrys progress and the historic Pope Francis historic apostolic visit to Myanmar. "After the Holy Fathers visit, our activities have intensified. The government now gives us many more opportunities to contribute to peace. Before we could not operate in conflict areas, but now RfP-M and other interfaith groups are present in some of the most troubled regions: Kachin State, in particular in the Myitkyina area ; Shan, near Lashio; and, finally, Rakhine, in Kyaukphyu and Sittwe." Rooh Afza-maker Hamdard Laboratories said earlier during the day that its popular drink is now available in the market after a temporary shortage due to short supply of certain herbal ingredients. According to the company, supply shortage along with unprecedented demand due to month and peak summer season exerted pressure on Rooh Afza's availability. " is now available in the market and can be bought from major retail stores and grocery outlets across the country," Hamdard Laboratories said. Earlier, some media reports suggested that the reason behind supply shortage could be a rift amongst founder's family and not herbal shortage. The company, however, said, "The organisation urges discerning consumers and the trade not to be misled by incorrect information being circulated online and in print about non-availability of Rooh Afza". The issue garnered more attention after Hamdard Laboratories Pakistan from across the border offered to supply to via border in Amritsar in view of the shortage here for the ongoing period. In 1906, Hakeem Hafiz Abdul Majeed had laid the foundation of Hamdard Dawakhana in one of the by lanes of Old Delhi and in 1907 launched Rooh Afza. Following partition of the Indian subcontinent in 1947, his elder son stayed in India, while the younger son migrated to Pakistan, started Hamdard in Karachi and had launched Rooh Afza there. Rourkela Steel Plant (RSP) has launched an unique initiative to further strengthen safety with a goal to achieve zero accident by making each of its employees an "Ambassador of Safety." Christened as Sankalp-A safety Intervention, the drive was launched on Wednesday by RSPs CEO Dipak Chattaraj, who exhorted the employees to start a 'Word of Mouth' campaign to make safety an intrinsic part of everyones day- to-day life, RSP said in a release. "Safety practices and protocols should become part of our conversation wherever we are. Each and every one of us should become an Ambassador of Safety," the CEO said. While elaborating on the strategy for realising the goal of accident free steel, Chattaraj said, "For me, the ABC of Safety is: A Awareness, B- Belief and C- Commitment. The more aware we are about the hazards, the firmer our belief in our capability and the stronger our commitment towards the cause ... " Stressing on the need to get rid of the monster called accident, Chattaraj exhorted the employees to take a pledge that neither will they indulge in unsafe practice nor allow anyone to do so. Exuding confidence that the steel plant will be able to achieve its goal of making accident free steel, the CEO said "believe me, together we can, together we will. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) People in this Muslim-dominated village in Azamgarh district, which hogged the limelight as a "terror hub" after 2008 Batla House encounter in Delhi against suspected Indian Mujahideen (IM) terrorists who all belonged to it, have no expectations from politicians they just want to get rid of the 'terror tag' on their village. "We want to get rid of the terror tag on our village that has been given by the media after the Batla House encounter. We don't have much expectations from politicians who come and go. There are no issues before us but we only want authorities to ensure release of innocent youths caught by security agencies," Mohammad Shadab alias Mister, whose son Saif is lodged in Jaipur jail these days, told PTI. "When accused of Samjhauta Express and Malegaon blasts have been set free for lack of any proof. The youths of our village arrested after Batla House encounter should also get similar justice. They are all innocent like those who are accused of Samjhauta and Malegaon blast," he told a visiting PTI journalist. About Saif's involvement, his father said, "Undoubtedly he is innocent. The case is going on and no witness could stand in the court. There is no eye witness. All of them are policemen who are witness. The matter should be raised by politicians contesting polls. We are waiting for justice." In Batala House encounter, two suspected terrorists, Atif Amin and Mohamed Sajid, were killed. Other suspects Mohd Saif, Salman and Arif were arrested. All of them belong to Sanjarpur village, which is over 25 km from the Azamgarh district headquarters. In the charge sheet, police claimed Mohd Saif was also present in the flat in which the Batla House encounter took place on September 19, 2008 in the national capital. The prosecution claimed Saif had disclosed that he was involved in causing serial blasts in the national capital on September 13, 2008 in which 26 people were killed and 135 injured. Tariq Shafiq, a local and founder member of Rihai Manch, said the village will be exercising their franchise to elect it's representative expecting they will do something. About their choice in the on going polls, he said, "We will vote for the less harmful one though no one has yet taken up the cause of the youths of this village. Everytime elections come, politicians and media visit us but no one really comes for the help." "The people here never expected such an allegation and label of terror on our village. We are fighting and what if one day all the youths are acquitted? How and who will they return their golden years," Tariq asked. After 2009, politicians like Samajwadi Party founder Mulayam Singh Yadav, Shivpal Yadav, Congress leader Digvijay Singh and others visited the village promising to take up the case, but nothing happened and stigma remained, he said. For social activist Mahisuddin Sanjari, "no one takes politicians seriously here. There are no issues here. There is an undercurrent of pro- and anti-Narendra Modi on which voting will be done". When asked about Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath's statement that Azamgarh was made terror hub by the SP, Sanjari said "Attempts are underway to polarise voters. But there is no reaction here as people have faced a lot and seen real face of politicians". "We have learnt a lot in the past 11 years with our experience. We know that we can get justice from legal fight," he says. Legendary Urdu poet Kaifi Azmi was born in this district. His actor-daughter Shabana is developing his birthplace Mizwaan. The area is also famous for the Shibli College, which was set up before Independence. Sanjarpur is a big village with over 6,000 voters including Muslims, Dalits, Yadavs and Gutpas. The village has a primary madarsa, a government-run primary school and junior high school, a primary health centre and recently some roads were made by local MLA, villagers said. Rashtriya Ulema Council President Maulana Aamir Rashadi, who organised protests in national and state capital as he took people from here on train said, "The innocent youths' release will pave way for removing the stigma. Our demand for unbiased probe remains." Azamgarh Lok Sabha constituency goes to polls on May 12 in the sixth phase of voting, with SP chief Akhilesh Yadav trying to retain his father's seat. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Supreme Court Collegium has rejected government's objections and reiterated its recommendation to elevate Justices Aniruddha Bose and A S Bopanna to the apex court, observing nothing adverse has been found regarding their competence, conduct or integrity. The collegium has also recommended names of Justices B R Gavai and Surya Kant for elevation to the apex court. The two resolutions of the Collegium were made public on the apex court's website on Thursday. According to the website a five-member Collegium headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi had met on Wednesday and deliberated on the issue of elevation of the four high court judges. "In view of the above, on due consideration of all aspects mentioned in the file, the Collegium resolves to reiterate the aforementioned recommendation dated 12th April, 2019, especially since nothing adverse regarding competence, conduct or integrity of Justices Aniruddha Bose, and A S Bopanna, has been pointed out," the Collegium said in its May 8 resolution. Justice Bose is the Chief Justice of Jharkhand High Court whereas Justice Bopanna is the Gauhati High Court Chief Justice. Justice Gavai is presently a judge of the Bombay High Court and Justice Kant is the incumbent Chief Justice of the Himachal Pradesh High Court. Against the sanctioned strength of 31 judges, the apex court is presently functioning with 27 judges. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Pakistan's Supreme Court Thursday dismissed a petition filed to halt US drone strikes in the country, saying the government was authorised to deal with such matters. Raja Saad Sultan in a petition had challenged a verdict by the Peshawar High Court (PHC) which earlier rejected the case by forwarding the issue of drone strikes to the defence ministry. A three-member apex court bench led by Chief Justice Asif Saeed Khosa upheld the PHC dismissal with observation that government of the day was authorised to deal with such matters. The bench further said that Ministry of Defence and the government can approach the US if necessary to stop any further strikes. The court also said that the drone strikes virtually ended, as the last such strike reportedly took place in January 2018. The petitioner had sought directives for the government as how to deal with such attacks as according to petitioner's lawyer innocent people are killed in the drone strikes. According to the Bureau of Investigative Journalism, minimum 430 drone strikes were carried out inside Pakistani territory since 9/11, which killed up to 4,026 people. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Thursday dismissed a plea seeking direction to the Centre and the to debar from contesting elections till the issue of his citizenship is decided. A bench headed by rejected the contention of the petitioners, who said that in a form along with the annual data of a UK-based company in 2005-06, it was allegedly mentioned that is a British citizen. "If some company in some form mentions his nationality as British, does he become a British citizen," the bench also comprising Justices Deepak Gupta and Sanjiv Khanna told the petitioners. The Supreme Court Thursday dismissed a plea seeking direction to the Centre and the Election Commission to debar Congress President Rahul Gandhi from contesting the Lok Sabha elections till the issue of his alleged British citizenship is decided. A bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi rejected the contention of the petitioners' lawyer who said that in a form along with the annual data of a UK-based company in 2005-06, it was allegedly mentioned that Rahul Gandhi is a British citizen. "If some company in some form mentions his nationality as British, does he become a British citizen," said the bench, also comprising Justices Deepak Gupta and Sanjiv Khanna. The counsel appearing for the petitioners -- Jai Bhagwan Goyal and C P Tyagi -- told the bench that Gandhi was contesting Lok Sabha elections from two seats and aspires to become the Prime Minister despite the fact that he had allegedly acquired dual citizenship. "If 123 crore people say that this man should be the Prime Minister, will you mind that?", the bench told the counsel. At the outset, the bench asked the counsel, "Who are you (petitioners)? What you do for living?" The counsel responded that petitioners are public-spirited persons, social workers and are also in politics. "So, you are in the politics of social work?", the CJI said. The bench then questioned the counsel as to why they have approached the court in 2019 when the matter pertains to 2005-2006 record of a company. "It was in 2005-06? When did you come to know about this?", the bench asked. When the lawyer said that documents had come to light only in 2015, the bench asked, "Still it took you 2019 to approach the court?". "Heard counsel for the petitioners and perused the relevant material. We are not inclined to entertain the writ petition. The same is, accordingly, dismissed," the bench said in its order. The plea had alleged that the petitioners were "dissatisfied" with the "inaction" of the Centre and the poll panel in "deciding the question of voluntary acquisition of British citizenship" by Gandhi in spite of a November 2015 communication by BJP leader Subramanian Swamy in this regard. The petitioners had alleged that since prima facie evidence in this regard has been produced before the Home Ministry and the Election Commission, Gandhi should not have been allowed to contest the ongoing Lok Sabha elections from Amethi in Utter Pradesh and Wayanad in Kerala. The plea had also sought a direction to the EC to remove Gandhi's name from "electoral roll till the decision of the question of acquisition of his British citizenship". In a recent letter to Gandhi, the Home Ministry had said it has received a representation from Swamy in which it has been brought out that a company named Backops Limited was registered in the United Kingdom in 2003 with Rahul Gandhi as one of its directors. The Home Ministry had said Swamy's letter mentioned that in the British company's annual returns filed on October 10, 2005 and October 31, 2006, Rahul's date of birth has been given as June 19, 1970 and had declared his nationality as British. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Supreme Court on Thursday disposed of a plea of the kin of those killed along with former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi in 1991, challenging the Tamil Nadu government's 2014 decision to release seven convicts in the assassination case. A bench of Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and Justices Deepak Gupta and Sanjiv Khanna said that all relevant issues raised in the petition were decided by the 2015 constitution bench verdict of the apex court. "Having considered the matter, we are of the view that no live issue remains for adjudication in view of the Constitution bench judgment of this court in Union of India versus V Sriharan alias Murugan and others. In view of the above, the writ petition stands disposed of," the bench said. The Constitution bench verdict had come on a plea of the Centre challenging the Tamil Nadu's government decision of 2014 to remit the sentence of life imprisonment and to release the seven convicts. It held that the Centre has primacy over states' right to grant remission in cases probed by central agencies like CBI and the state governments must secure concurrence of the Union government before freeing convicts in certain cases. The apex court had said that the states cannot exercise "suo motu" the power to grant remission without any specific plea from the convicts. The Petition by S Abbas and three others has challenged the decision taken in 2014 by the then chief minister J Jayalalithaa led government to release the seven convicts in the case. S Abbas, now 36, was eight years old when his mother had died in the blast triggered by an LTTE suicide bomber in which the former Prime Minister was killed at Sriperumbudur in Tamil Nadu on May 21, 1991. The Centre had on August 10, last year told the apex court that it does not concur with the Tamil Nadu government's proposal of 2014 to release the seven convicts in the Rajiv Gandhi assassination case, claiming remission of their sentence will set a "dangerous precedent" and have "international ramifications". On August 20, 47-year old Perarivalan alias Arivu, a convict in the case had told the apex court that no decision has been taken as yet on his mercy petition filed before the Tamil Nadu Governor over two years ago under Article 161 of the Constitution. He had filed the petition on December 30, 2015, saying he had suffered over 24 years of solitary/single confinement. He was charged with supplying a 9-volt battery which was allegedly used for the belt bomb that had killed Gandhi and 14 others. Convicts Perarivalan, V Sriharan alias Murugan, T Suthendraraja alias Santham, Jayakumar, Robert Payas, P Ravichandaran and Nalini have been in jail for more than 25 years. Rajiv Gandhi was assassinated on the night of May 21 by a woman suicide bomber, identified as Dhanu, at an election rally. Fourteen others, including Dhanu herself, were also killed. This was perhaps the first case of suicide bombing which had claimed the life of a high-profile global leader. The apex court had on February 18, 2014, commuted the death sentence of three convicts - Murugan, Santhan and Perarivalan - citing inordinate delay by the executive in deciding their mercy plea. After Gandhi's assassination, the probe was transferred from the state police to a Special Investigation Team of the CBI at the request of the Tamil Nadu government. The SIT had named 41 accused in its charge sheet - including 12, who died in the blast and three who were absconding - before a TADA court in Chennai. The prolonged trial culminated in 1998, when the TADA court sentenced 26 of the accused to death. In May 1999, the apex court had upheld the death sentence of four, including Murugan, Santham, Perarivalan and Nalini, commuted the death sentence of three to life, and freed the remaining 19. In April 2000, the Tamil Nadu Governor had commuted the death sentence of Nalini on the basis of state government's recommendation and an appeal by Rajiv's wife and then Congress President Sonia Gandhi. The death sentences of the remaining three convicts were commuted in February 2014 by the apex court on grounds of inordinate delay of 11 years in deciding their mercy petitions. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) In a relief to lakhs of students who appeared in the SSC combined graduate level and higher secondary level examinations in 2017, the Supreme Court Thursday paved the way for declaration of results by vacating its stay on it. A bench headed by Justice S A Bobde also constituted a 7-member committee, headed by retired apex court judge Justice G S Singhvi, to suggest measures to make entrance exams meant for jobs and admissions in educational institutions fool proof. The committee will give its report to the court within three months. On August 31 last year, the top court had stayed the declaration of result of the 2017 Staff Selection Commission exams which were marred by allegations of paper leak, saying it seemed that the entire test and system was "tainted". The bench, also comprising Justice S A Nazeer, made it clear that declaration of results of the examination would be subject to final outcome of the case. The other members of the committee are: co-founder of tech giant Infosys Nandan Nilekani, renowned computer scientist Vijay Bhatkar, renowned mathematician R L Karandikar, Sanjay Bhardwaj and a representative each from the Centre as well as the CBI. Advocate Govind Jee, appearing for petitioner Shantanu Kumar, told the bench that a committee should be constituted to look into the matter and suggest systematic changes in conduct of such exams in future. The committee will look into several aspects, including whether as per the investigation done by the CBI in the paper leak of 2017 exams, is it possible to conclude that the entire examination process could have been tainted by leakage and if yes, then how the beneficiaries would be identified. It will also suggest measures which may be required to be taken for future examinations with a view to curb the possibility of any malpractices. On April 16, the apex court had directed the CBI to file a fresh status report on the investigation into the 2017 SSC exam paper leak. The SSC is a government body which conducts examinations to recruit staff at multiple levels in various ministries and departments. The apex court is hearing a plea which has sought probe into the alleged paper leak and scrapping of the paper, leading to huge protests from job seekers for several days. Amid the protests, the SSC had recommended a CBI probe into the allegations of paper leak. The apex court had earlier favoured cancelling the 2017 SSC examination, and holding it afresh by National Testing Agency or the CBSE "in the interest of students". However, the Centre had said there was no need for re-examination of entire paper as the leak was "extremely localised" and those behind the leaks were identified and action was taken. Several lakh students appear in SSC examination each year and enter government services in Group C and D Categories of jobs once they qualify. The SSC Combined Graduate Level exam has a four-tier system, in which tier I and tier II are computer-based, while in tier III and IV, job applicants take up a descriptive paper and a computer proficiency test or skill test. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Supreme Court on Thursday refused to interfere with the March 7 order of the Gujarat High Court which had rejected the bail plea of former IPS officer Sanjiv Bhatt in connection with a two-decade-old drug seizure case. A bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi noted that the high court had already granted liberty to Bhatt, who is in jail since September last year, to approach again for relief in case the trial does not conclude within a period of six months. "In view of the liberty granted to the petitioner (Bhatt) by the high court in paragraph 38.3 of the order that if the trial does not get concluded within the period of six months, the applicant shall be at liberty to approach this court once again, we are not inclined to interfere," the bench, which also comprising Justices Deepak Gupta and Sanjiv Khanna, said. "The special leave petition is, accordingly, disposed of," the bench said, adding, "We make it clear that we have not expressed any opinion on the merits of the case." Bhatt had moved the apex court challenging the high court's March 7 order. On April 8, the top court had agreed to hear Bhatt's plea and sought response from Gujarat police on the petition. The former Gujarat-cadre IPS officer, who has been a vocal critics of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, had earlier moved the high court after a sessions court in Banaskantha district had turned down his bail plea in December last year in connection with the 23-year-old drug seizure case. Bhatt has denied the allegations levelled against him. He was suspended in 2011 on charges of remaining absent from duty without permission and misuse of official vehicles. Bhatt, who was sacked from service in 2015, was a superintendent of police in Banaskantha district in 1996. The district police under him had arrested one Sumersingh Rajpurohit, a Rajasthan-based lawyer, in 1996 claiming that they have seized drugs from a hotel room in Palanpur town where he was staying. However, the Rajasthan police later said Rajpurohit was falsely implicated by the Banaskantha police to compel him to transfer a disputed property located at Pali in Rajasthan. Former police inspector I B Vyas had moved the Gujarat High Court in 1999 demanding a thorough inquiry into the case. In June last year, the high court had handed over the probe to the state CID and Bhatt was arrested in September. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) by Shafique Khokhar The people arrested include a Chinese woman, who headed the syndicate, a Protestant clergymen and four others, all Christian. Young women were enticed to marry Chinese men on the promise of a better life, but ended up as prostitutes or forced to work. The Chinese woman paid for the fake marriage, but some money also went to the parents of would-be Pakistan brides. Faisalabad (AsiaNews) Six people accused of organising marriages between Pakistani Christian women and Chinese men have been arrested, and are waiting trial. After travelling China with their husbands, the brides ended up sold into prostitution in China. The accused are Ms Candis, a Chinese national who headed the group, Rev Zahid, a Protestant clergyman, and four other people Kashif, Qaisar, Janu and Parkash Masih all Christian. The arrests follow a complaint by Mushtaq Masih, whose daughter was taken to a restaurant in Faisalabad to marry a young Chinese man on the promise of a better life in China. At the eatery, police found Rev Zahid had a fake marriage certificate. After they were questioned, the six were arrested on charges of human trafficking, fraud and forgery, and are currently in prison awaiting trial. These arrests are the first on record, but the Catholic Church has complained for a long time about the problem of fake marriages between Pakistani women and Chinese men. The police found that Ms Candis, the head of the group, worked together with Anas Butt (picture 2), a very influential Muslim figure, the son of a retired police officer. From Lahore, the two would get in touch with poor Christian women and girls in order to entice them to marry young Chinese men. All the marriage expenses were borne by Candis, who also paid a substantial sum to would-be brides parents, telling them that their daughters would enjoy a prosperous married life. Unlike the six, Anas Butt has not been arrested, and remains a powerful figure. Mehak Bibi, a Christian woman who married a Chinese man a few months ago, managed to escape from Lahore and return to Faisalabad to her family, and now refuses to go to China with her husband. Anas is making threatening phone calls to her and her family, telling them that they would suffer dire consequences if she did to return to her Chinese husband. According to the police, 20 illegal marriages have taken place in Faisalabad so far; 18 are young women are Christian, two are Muslim. Meanwhile, some media outlets have reported stories of poor young women and girls tricked by promises of a better life and ending up in China to be sold and forced into prostitution. Shahid Anwar, diocesan coordinator for Justice and Peace in Faisalabad, told AsiaNews that the number of fake marriages between Chinese and Christian girls has gotten out of hand. Criminal gangs exploit poor Christian families and blind them with promises of money, then use the girls in the sex industry, forced labour and other humiliating situations. Given the situation, "The Pakistani government and the Chinese consulate should take decisive action against this human trafficking, verifying visas and marriage certificates. For their part, civil society groups should raise awareness about human trafficking, especially involving children and religious minorities, who are the easiest victims." Yasir Talib, a human rights activist, blames first and foremost Pastor Zahid (picture 3). "It is shameful that this man and his cronies play with their faith and accept to register fake marriages for money. Talib and his partners work to raise awareness about the problem among Christian families. "We tell them that they must not be stupid, he said, falling into the hands of groups who tempt them to marry off their daughters to young Chinese men. "The Chinese husbands even go through a church marriage, just to deceive. After marriage, they sell the daughters for huge sums of money. For them it is trade, but the lives and faith of these families are affected forever." The Supreme Court Thursday said it would like to interact with the wife of Gaurav Chandra Dutt, IPS officer who had allegedly committed suicide in February blaming West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for his death, to know the reason for withdrawal of her plea seeking probe. A bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi asked petitioner Sreyashi Dutt, who has sought to withdraw her plea seeking investigation in the matter, to appear before the apex court on any day in July as per her convenience. "Before granting liberty to the petitioner to withdraw this writ petition, this court would like to interact with the petitioner to know the reason for such withdrawal. The petitioner to appear before this court on any day in the month of July 2019 as may be convenient to her," said the bench, also comprising Justices Deepak Gupta and Sanjiv Khanna. "The said date be intimated to the Secretary General by the counsel, whereafter the matter will be posted before the bench on such date," the bench said. On March 15, the top court had said it was not passing any order on the request for withdrawal of the plea and had directed the matter to be listed after two weeks. The retired 1986-batch IPS officer had blamed West Bengal Chief Minister for his death, a charge dismissed by the state's ruling Trinamool Congress as "baseless". In a six-page letter to the chief minister, Dutt, who retired earlier this year, had accused her of abetting his suicide by keeping him "compulsory waiting" for posting. The officer was suspended for nine months in 2010 for "conduct unbecoming of an officer" after a constable's wife accused him of torturing her husband. He had also faced disciplinary action in 2012 over alleged financial irregularities. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) With just days to go for the Lok Sabha polls in Delhi, restaurateurs in the national capital hope the new government will work to revive the eating-out sector, which took a hit following the sealing of rooftop operations. Reintroduction of input tax credit (ITC), eased licensing norms, a clear policy for the sector, and bringing down the legal drinking age to 18 are some other things that the industry hopes for. Restaurateurs said their profits slumped after civic bodies sealed portions of restaurants in commercial hubs of Connaught Place, Khan Market and Hauz Khas Village in 2017 for running rooftop operations. Priyank Sukhija, who owns restaurants like Lord of the Drinks and Warehouse Cafe in Connaught Place, claimed the New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) action led to a 40 per cent decline in business of restaurants in the area. "There was a time when CP was becoming a hub for restaurants but now no new restaurants are coming up here. The crowd is there but restaurateurs do not want to venture into CP," he said. "I had to sack 150 people across six of my restaurants in CP after the rooftops were closed by NDMC. We have given stability certificates to NDMC but we have been bearing the brunt since a portion of a building in C block, above Jain Book Depot, caved in," he added. Like Connaught Place, restaurants in Khan Market also bore the brunt of sealing. Business of restaurants in Hauz Khas Village was also hit by sealing of rooftop operations, multiple raids, parking issues, lack of fire safety measures and traffic congestion. The government's decision to scrap ITC in November 2017 dealt another blow to the sector. It was accompanied by a cut in (GST) from 18 to 5 per cent for restaurants. Owner of QBA, a resto-bar in Connaught Place, Atul Kapur, said, reintroduction of ITC is one of the central issues for restaurateurs. "Unlike other businesses, we pay GST but do not get input tax credit, which pushes our costs higher. The issue has been taken up with the government but nothing has been done yet," he said. Sukhija echoed similar sentiments. "Even five-star hotels are getting input tax credit but we are not getting it. I am putting my money through cheques, which means I am at a loss, while those who are functioning entirely through cash are safe. We have made numerous appeals to the GST Council but our appeals have fallen on deaf ears," he said. Before the introduction of GST, those buying goods for their businesses had to pay input tax and they were also supposed to pay output tax while selling them. The ITC mechanism was introduced to avoid double tax payment. Under the mechanism, the tax paid on input was deducted from the tax payable on output. ALSO READ: Nationalism breathes easy in this village of soldiers in Gurgaon district President of the National Restaurant Association of India, Rahul Singh, said there should be two GST slabs. "Restaurants should have the option of choosing from two GST slabs -- the present five per cent without ITC or 12 per cent with ITC. If the option of two slabs is not possible, then ITC should at least be permitted on rent. Liquor should be brought under the ambit of GST and not doing so defeats the very purpose of bringing in a uniform single (tax) structure," he said. Restaurant owners also want a clear and fixed policy for governing the sector. "We strongly believe that whatever law is made should be followed and it should not keep changing. There has to be a stable policy about everything and there has to be clarity on each point about what the norms are and what needs to be followed how," said Kabir Suri, founder of dining chain operator Azure Hospitality Group, which runs Mamagoto restaurants. "Delhi being a Union Territory remains no man's land, police reports to the Centre but the excise department reports to the state government. What needs to be done from where becomes an issue for us," he added. Sukhija said the process of getting a license can take several months to be completed. Joy Singh, owner of Raasta, which was earlier located in Hauz Khas and shifted to Green Park over a year ago, said a single license window would help the restaurant industry. Speaking about the legal drinking age in India, Kapur said lowering it has been a long-pending demand of the industry. He pointed out that in many foreign countries the legal drinking age is 17 or 18. According to the current norms in India, any restaurant selling alcohol to a person below the age of 25 can lose its license. Actor-turned-politician Shatrughan Sinha, who quit BJP and joined the Congress, on Thursday lashed out at the saffron party over reports in a section of the media that party president Amit Shahs proposed roadshow here later this week would show him his aukaat (worth). Shah is scheduled to hold a roadshow here on Saturday evening. It is slated to commence from Kadam Kuan locality, where Sinhas ancestral house is situated and criss-cross several narrow streets in densely populated localities before concluding near the historic Gandhi Maidan, according to sources in the BJP. I have heard that Shah is coming to Patna. He is welcome as every guest is. He would be served tea and also pakodas which he and his ilk seem to be very fond of, Sinha, also called 'Shotgun', said in an obvious dig at Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The prime minister while replying to complaints of job crisis, had said that selling fritters should also be seen as an employment. But I have learnt that some people say he is coming here to show me my aukaat (worth). This is going to backfire. Seems the BJP has not learnt its lessons from the assembly polls of 2015 when the DNA remark (by the prime minister) had cost the NDA dearly, he told PTI here. Modi, while attacking Nitish Kumar at a rally in Muzaffarpur in July 2015 ahead of the Bihar assembly polls had said that it seemed that there was some problem with Nitish Kumars DNA, referring to the frequent change of political allegiance of Nitish Kumar. The BJP had lost the election and Kumar had gone on to form the government along with allies RJD and the Congress. They (BJP) are once again insulting a dharti putra (son of the soil). The people of Bihar in general and Patna in particular have been hurt and they will give a befitting reply on the day of polling, said Sinha, who quit the BJP last month and is now seeking to retain Patna Sahib on a Congress ticket. When senior BJP leader and Bihar minister Nand Kishore Yadav had announced Shahs programme at a press conference here Wednesday, questions were raised as to whether the starting point has been decided to tease Sinha since there are many wider streets which could have been chosen. Yadav, who represents one of the assembly segments falling under Patna Sahib, had dismissed the questions saying Who cares about the Congress candidate without mentioning Sinha by name. Reports have surfaced in a section of the media here quoting BJP sources that the route has been deliberately chosen to show Sinha, who had been critical of the leadership of Modi and Shah even while within the BJP, his aukaat (worth). (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A 19-year-old Dalit woman, who was to get married in two weeks, was stabbed to death in full public view allegedly by a man near here in Gujarat after she refused to sit on his motorcycle, police said Thursday. The shocking incident took place in Bavla town of Ahmedabad district Wednesday evening. The victim, Mittal Jadav, was stabbed multiple times by the accused, Ketan Vaghela, when she refused to go with him on his motorbike, the police said, quoting from the complaint lodged by her father Ramesh Jadav. Vaghela, along with his accomplices - Shravan and Dhanraj - was booked on charges of murder and also under various sections of the the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, said officials. They said the probe has been handed over to Deputy Superintendent of Police (SC/ST Cell) P D Manvar. A video of the incident surfaced Thursday. In the video, shot by a bystander, a person carrying knife can be seen running away from the spot, while the victim is lying unconscious and surrounded by onlookers. The incident took place at around 6.30 pm when Mittal Jadav and her younger sister were shopping in a market near a bus stop, said Manvar. The woman, whose marriage was fixed after two weeks, succumbed to her injuries at a hospital in Ahmedabad late Wednesday night, he said. The motive behind the murder is not yet clear as the victim's family members are in a shock and unable to speak about the gruesome incident, Manvar said. "The FIR says that Ketan Vaghela, who came there with two others, asked the victim to sit on his motorcycle. When she refused, Ketan stabbed her multiple times and ran away with his accomplices," the police officer said. "We do not have more details at this stage," said Manvar, adding the accused are yet to be arrested. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Acclaimed Pakistani author Fatima Bhutto, who believes the way to combat fundamentalists is to celebrate the co-existence of more than one culture, says South Asians are made up of hundreds of identities and we must fight to protect all of them. The 36-year-old granddaughter of the late Pakistan prime minister Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto, who delivered the closing address at the recent Sydney Writers' Festival, speaks to PTI about her latest book "The Runaways", what drives young people to become radicals, how the violence in Pakistan during her growing up years taught her to be brave and the west's accountability in the "explosive radicalism" of today. Excerpts from the interview: Q: What is driving young people today to become radicals and join groups like ISIS? A: I think there is widespread alienation all over the world today. The promises of globalisation have turned out to be a lie - the poor were not uplifted. They were forced into even less secure conditions while a global minority has been vaulted into incredible riches. It is hard to get a job, to live lives of dignity and respect. If you come from minorities or from certain communities you are denied access to opportunity, travel, study and this creates a lot of anger. In places where these young people are not given a vision for their futures, they become vulnerable to any vision offered to them. Q: ISIS has claimed responsibility for the Sri Lanka massacre? Is its focus moving to South Asia? A: South Asia's heritage is one of syncretism, multiplicity. Our part of the world has absorbed and embraced so many beautiful religions, legacies and cultures. It is that embrace and acceptance that fundamentalists want to destroy and we must resist them wholeheartedly. We do not come from a binary culture. We South Asians are made up of hundreds of identities and we must fight to protect all of them. Q: What was it like growing up in Syria and Pakistan? How have the two countries changed, especially for the youth? A: The Syria of my youth was not the Syria you see today. Yes, granted if you were a political dissident it was very restrictive, but if you were a woman, a religious minority, a member of the LGBT community, a secular person it was a place where you felt safe and protected. Now of course we see Syria as a place of incredible violence and terror. When I was growing up in Pakistan as a teenager it was a place of a lot of violence and turbulence and insecurity, but Pakistan taught me to be brave. It taught me how to survive in a world that frightened me and I would not be the person I am today without it. Q: What was the motivation behind penning "The Runaways"? Was it developments in Iraq and Syria or events closer home in Pakistan and India? Do your characters in "The Runaways" depict real life stories or did it involve a lot of research? A: Yes, it was about all those places and I thought a lot about India and Pakistan when I was writing it even though the story expands beyond those terrains. It was based on research but also observations made over the years as I watched the war on terror expand terror rather than limit it. The west has a huge accountability in this explosive radicalism we see today. Their wars, torture, restrictions and humiliations of entire peoples have inflamed radical sentiments. Their inability to abide by the principles they claim to represent liberty, freedom, justice, inclusion has been exposed. The characters are imaginative but I think the motivations they feel are based in real life radicalism is born out of a lot of isolation and pain, it's not something that you are born with, it is fostered over time and so many are vulnerable. Q: What are the factors, according to you, that are contributing to radicalism? A: A University of Chicago professor some years ago studied every case of suicide terrorism and found that it wasn't religion that was the motivating factor but politics. It was occupation, sanctions, war, nationalism, a feeling of humiliating that motivated all the terrorists. Q: Will stripping citizens, convicted of terrorism, of their citizenship make things worse? A: I think sadly it will. Those people, even if they are criminals, were born in those countries, brought up there, and they were radicalised there. How can the west now wipe their hands off them? They must be brought to justice, tried, punished and rehabilitated in the west. Depriving them of their citizenships says to a generation of people who are western but with immigrant backgrounds that you don't belong here, we don't value you, we don't accept you, and anything you do wrong will automatically get you thrown out. We are not invested in you, and have no interest in making sure you are a productive, functional, valuable member of our community. That's an incredibly dangerous message to send to people from immigrant backgrounds. Q: In trying to fit into the adopted country, do South Asian parents put undue pressure on their children to realise their unfulfilled ambitions and aspirations and unknowingly make their children feel unwanted and unfit? A: I think parents everywhere, whether they are South Asians or not and whether they are immigrants or not, struggle to build futures for their children that are more expansive than their own in terms of possibilities and opportunities. It's an act of wanting to protect and provide but naturally it is a lot of pressure and in wrong conditions can affect the child adversely. Q: How can migrant communities be better assimilated with mainstream society? A: I think that multiculturalism is beautiful and it's what makes societies robust and dynamic. Why would we want everyone in any given country to be exactly the same? We want everyone to feel safe and respected and protected that's the only thing we should want as citizens. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Veteran actor Sylvester Stallone will be sharing the first look of his upcoming action feature "Rambo: Last Blood" at the Cannes Film Festival. The film, scheduled to release on September 20, will mark the actor's fifth and final outing as the action character, John Rambo. In a statement, the festival organisers said Stallone will share exclusive images from the film during a special screening in the Palais des Festivals on May 24. At the festival, a video montage will honour the actor and his 50-year career in film and TV. A world premiere of Stallone's first outing as the titular role in Ted Kotcheff's "Rambo: First Blood" will also be held in 4K at the Grand Theatre Lumiere. The film was restored frame by frame in the respect of the artistic choices of the original production. "Last Blood", directed by Adrian Grunberg from a script by Stallone and Matt Cirulnick, will see Rambo living on a ranch in Arizona, deeply troubled and wrestling with PTSD as he picks up casual work wherever he can. When longtime family friend and estate manager Maria informs the former soldier that her granddaughter has gone missing after crossing into Mexico for a party, he sets off with her to find the youngster. In pursuit, Rambo uncovers a sex-trafficking ring and teams up with a journalist whose half-sister has also been kidnapped. He must deploy all his skills to save the girls and bring down a vicious crime lord. The film will also feature Paz Vega, Sergio Peris-Mencheta and Yvette Monreal in pivotal roles. Stallone also played the character in "Rambo: First Blood Part II" (1985), "Rambo III" (1988) and "Rambo" (2008). The 72nd edition of the Cannes Film Festival will run from May 14 to 25. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal Thursday asked voters not to refuse money or gifts offered to them by other political parties, but cast their votes for the Aam Aadmi Party. "On the night of election, do they (other political parties) come to give money or not? Accept that money or gifts because it has been bought with money which they stole from you," Kejriwal said at a roadshow without mentioning the BJP or Congress. "What will you do? Take it, don't deny it, but vote for jhadu (broom, AAP's election symbol)," the AAP chief said in the roadshow in support of South Delhi candidate Raghav Chadha. Kejriwal had made a similar comment earlier this month, following which he was sent a show cause notice by the Election Commission. He was joined by actress Swara Bhasker in the roadshow. Chadha said the youth would reject the " of hooliganism". The roadshow started at Bapu Sambhav Camp, Chattarpur and ended at Kundan Chowk in Bijwasan. Kejriwal urged people to vote on Sunday "even though it will be hot during the day". Delhi goes to polls on Sunday and the result would be declared on May 23. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Congress president renewed Thursday his attack over alleged corruption in the aircraft deal, this time in response to calling his late father and former prime minister corrupt. He also took on the Modi over unemployment, taunting him for a remark that selling 'pakodas' is a job worth doing. "If you have to talk about and about me, do so definitely," Gandhi said at an election rally here. "But first explain what you have done on the issue. You should also explain to the people your unkept promise of 2 crore jobs for the youth," he added. "Did you give farmers the right price for their produce? Did you put Rs 15 lakh into bank accounts?" the Congress leader said, claiming that the government had not fulfilled its election promises. Gandhi said an industrialist friend of the prime minister benefitted from the agreement, a charge repeatedly rejected by the government. ALSO READ: Jaitley says 'kamdars' use navy ships to strike at terror unlike 'namdars' He said the prime minister who often boasts of a 56-inch chest is not talking about farmers' issues and unemployment during these elections. In recent speeches, Modi has recalled Rajiv Gandhi' term as prime minister, referring to corruption charges against him and the alleged use of warship INS Viraat during a family vacation. He has also brought up the anti-Sikh riots around the time took over as prime minister after his mother Indira Gandhi's assassination. claimed that the Congress has shown through farm loan waivers by its governments in Punjab, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Rajasthan that the party keeps its promises. He claimed when a leader asked a question at a Madhya Pradesh rally whether the Congress government there had waived farm loans, the crowd said, Yes, it has been done. He claimed that unemployment in the country is the highest in decades. "This is Modi's contribution," he said. "Make in India, start up India, sit down India, pakodas, the Congress leader said, mocking the schemes started by the Modi government. Initially, he talked about Make in India, then Startup India, then Stand-Up India and finally he ended on pakodas," Gandhi said. In an interview last year, the prime minister had given pakoda-selling as an example of worthwhile employment. Gandhi accused Modi of spreading hatred. "Wherever he goes, there is hatred. In Haryana, one community is made to fight against the other. When he goes to Tamil Nadu, he will criticise somebody. In Maharashtra, he will speak against the people of Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. People of one religion are made to fight against the other, Gandhi said. He asked the prime minister to explain what has been achieved in his term. "I want to ask you what you have done in the last five years. What have you given to the country?" Gandhi said. He claimed that Nyay, the income support scheme promised by the Congress if it comes to power, will remonetise the economy which he said had been dealt a blow by demonetisation. I am giving you the guarantee that not even a single penny will be charged from the middle class or any other section, and they will not be taxed for the Nyay scheme, he said. The opposition leader said funds for the scheme will come from the pockets of those rich industrialists who have been given undue favours under the Modi regime. Gandhi was addressing the rally in support of Haryana Congress president Ashok Tanwar, who is contesting from Sirsa. Tanwar is pitted against Indian National Lok Dal's sitting MP Charanjeet Singh Rori and Bharatiya Janata Party's Sunita Duggal. Ghulam Nabi Azad, the Congress general secretary in charge of Haryana, also addressed the meeting. Polling for Haryana's 10 Lok Sabha seats will be held in the sixth phase on May 12. Tata Motors Thursday denied reports that said the company is in the process of selling its British arm Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) to French automotive major PSA Groupe. The company's response came after various reports suggested that the sale process is already on. "As a matter of policy, we do not comment on media speculation. But we can confirm there is no truth to these rumours," a Tata Motors spokesperson said in a statement when asked to comment on the matter. The UK-based car giant, which was acquired by Tata Motors in 2008 from Ford, has been reeling under tough market conditions and uncertainty over Brexit issue. As part of its plans to achieve 2.5 billion pounds (about Rs 22,750 crore) of investment, working capital and profit improvements by March 2020, the company announced in January that it would reduce its global workforce by 4,500 people. This is expected to result in a one-time exceptional redundancy cost of around 200 million pounds (about Rs 1,820 crore). (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Hitting out at the Congress and other opposition parties, BJP chief Amit Shah Thursday said the more their leaders hurl abuses at Prime Minister Narendra Modi the more the lotus will bloom. Shah also asserted that nobody except Modi can make the country feel secure and no one can take away Kashmir from India as long as the BJP exists. Referring to the air strike on terror camps in Balakot in Pakistan, he claimed that Congress president Rahul Gandhi and other opposition leaders sulked after the operation and asked whether the terrorists killed were their "maternal-paternal brothers". "The security of the country is of top priority to us. If a bullet (goli) comes to us from Pakistan, our people will retaliate with a shell (golaa)," Shah said amidst applause from the crowd at his rallies. The BJP president was addressing rallies in Sant Kabirnagar, Siddharthnagar and Balrampur in Uttar Pradesh. Shah claimed that the Congress, the Samajwadi Party(SP) and the Bahujan Samaj Party(BSP) have not spared Modi from any abuse since he hails from a poor family. "The Congress, Mayawati and Akhilesh are hurling all types of abuses at Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Some times he is addressed as Hitler, sometimes as Mussolini and sometimes he is called as a murderer. This is because they (opposition) cannot tolerate the son of a poor becoming the prime minister," he said in Sant Kabirnagar, his third rally of the day after Balrampur and Siddharthnagar. Shah said, "To all these leaders, I want to say that the more you hurl abuses, the lotus will bloom with more splendour." Referring to Pulwama attack, the BJP chief said, "After the Pulwama terror attack in which 40 jawans were martyred, Pakistan thought that India will conduct a surgical strike (through land route). But, the 56-inch broad chested Modi conducted air strikes which shook Pakistan. "There were celebrations in the country and people were exploding firecrackers. There can be no compromise with the security of the country. If Modi is made prime minister once again, nobody will be able to cast an evil eye. The infiltrators will be killed in their den. Nobody can make the country feel secure except Modi," he said. Shah sought votes for BJP candidate Praveen Kumar Nishad, the joint opposition candidate who had defeated the BJP in the Gorakhpur bypoll last year but switched sides to the saffron party before the Lok Sabha elections. Earlier in Siddharthnagar, Shah poked fun at the opposition alliance and asked them to tell as to who will be the prime minister if the so called 'gathbandhan' is voted to power. "If BJP is voted to power, then Narendra Modi will become the prime minister. But, I want to ask Rahul Baba, bua-bhatija (an apparent reference to Akhilesh Yadav and Mayawati), that who will be the leader of your gathbandhan? If they are voted to power, then on Monday, Mayawati will be the prime minister. On Tuesday it will be Sharad Pawar, and on Wednesday somebody else would be the prime minister. These people are in to realise their vested interests, hide their corruption and for their families." The BJP chief also said, "After the airstrike, the faces of Rahul Baba, Bua-Bhatija became sad (chehre latak gaye). They thought that their votebank had become angry. Why was disturbance in their camp when the IAF had killed terrorists in Pakistan. Were they (terrorists) their maternal-paternal brothers?"Wrapping up his day's visit to UP, Shah addressed a rally in Sultanpur where he said, "No one can take away Kashmir from us. As long as the BJP exists, Kashmir will continue to be an integral part of India."The BJP chief also said that Article 370 will be withdrawn from Jammu and Kashmir, if the saffron party is voted to power again. In Balrampur, from where he started his UP tour, Shah accused the SP and the BSP of favouring certain castes and working for them while on the contrary, the BJP believes in the mantra of 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas'. "The SP and BSP are casteist and dynastic parties. When one was in power, it favoured a specific caste and worked for it. "Similarly, when the second (party) was in power, it favoured another caste. The work of the society took a backseat," he said. But, on the contrary, he said, "The BJP believes in mantra of 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas', and it never asked the caste (of any person) while undertaking developmental works." Shah said the best way to end casteism is that all people should unite. "If people from all sections of the society come together, people who spread casteism will not be able to succeed." Showering praises on Modi, Shah said, "The Modi-Modi slogan, which can be heard across the country, is mot merely an election slogan. This is the blessings of the countrymen on Modiji. The slogan tells that, when counting of votes will take place on May 23, Modiji will be the next Prime Minister." Taking a jibe at Rahul Gandhi and Akhilesh Yadav, the BJP chief said, "For the past 70 years, the country was looking for a leader, who would live for the country and not only for himself. I know Modiji for the past 20 years, he has not taken an off for even a single day. Modi works for 18 out of 24 hours in a day. However, Akhilesh and Rahul go abroad to celebrate the vacations. Rahul Baba's mother does not even know where his son has gone abroad." "The security of the country is of top priority to us. If a bullet (goli) comes to us from Pakistan, our people will retaliate with a shell (golaa)," he said amidst applause from the crowd. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) by Nirmala Carvalho The rape took place on June 19, 2018 in the village of Kochang, district of Khunti. The victims were assaulted while attending the school run by Fr. Aind. The attorney general: "He is the one who planned the crime". But Sister Julia denies: "The girls were not supposed to be there". Mumbai (AsiaNews) - The judicial authorities have sentenced the Jesuit priest Fr. Alphonse Aind, found guilty in a controversial case of kidnapping and rape, which occurred in June 2018 in the State of Jharkhand. Sister Julia George, of the Ursulines of Ranchi, criticizes the sentence and states: "It is a total injustice. All this is a definite attack on the missionary work of Christians ". The victims of violence are five activists of an NGO managed by his order. Together with Fr. Aind, five other people ended up behind bars. Free on bail since March 14, the Jesuit was taken into custody immediately after the verdict, issued two days ago. Sushil Jaiswal, attorney general in the process, declares: "He is the one who planned the crime". The Indian Bishops' Conference (CBCI) has always rejected the accusations made against the priest as false. The rape took place last June 19 in the village of Kochang, district of Khunti. Here the victims had to participate in a rally against human trafficking and the recitation of a group of artists. The activists - four girls and one woman - are part of the NGO "Asha Kiran" ("ray of hope") [a recovery center run by the Ursuline nuns in Fudi, about 20 km from Ranchi - ed]. They were encircled by men with their faces covered as they headed towards the school annexed to the Church of the Sacred Heart, of which Fr. Aind was parish priest. Then under the threat of weapons they were kidnapped and forced to follow the kidnappers into the jungle where they suffered group violence.. On 22 June, the National Women's Commission (NCW) wrote a letter to the Jharkhand Police Director General (DGP). The document urged the official to keep the commission up to date on the actions taken by the authorities regarding rape. The NCW also announced that it had set up an investigation group composed of three members, to investigate the case and present recommendations. In a report presented on June 28, the NCW stated that the Khunti incident appeared to be "planned" and "carried out in a professional manner". The letter cast shadows on the conduct of Fr. Aind, listed as having an active part in the crime. In those days Ashwini Sinha, superintendent of the Khunti police, told the press that Fr. Aind would have been one of the accomplices, accusing him of not having reported the incident to the authorities. The official also accused the priest of negligence for having allowed the group of women to go out on the street with the nuns, despite the threat of the criminals. For this reason the priest was arrested along with other people, interrogated and released after posting bail. The agents also questioned the coordinators of the NGO: Sister Ranjeeta Kindo and Sister Anita Nag. Sister Julia George, of the Ursulines of Ranchi, comments: "This is total injustice against Fr. Aind. I am extremely sad about this verdict. Sister Ranjitha should not have accompanied the artists. These convinced her to journey together. The actors are a group of professionals who stage street performances, to raise public awareness about human trafficking. Since no one was near the market, designated as their show venue, Sister Ranjitha saw the school and discovered that the building housed 500 students. The institute is the Stockman Memorial Middle School, of which Fr. Aind is the principal. So he proposed that the show be organized there, at the last minute and without warning. At that moment, the five rapists arrived on board a motorcycle. The sentence of Fr. Aind is a parody of justice ". The three Indians on show at the British Masters -- Shubhankar Sharma, Gaganjeet Bhullar and SSP Chawrasia -- literally ran into rough weather with disappointing cards, even as a 23-year-old invitee, Matthew Jordan shot a stunning bogeyfree 63 to open up a two-shot lead on the opening day on Thursday. Tournament host Tommy Fleetwood, who won the pre-event Hero Challenge, also got off to a fine start with a 68, but was still five behind young Jordan, who is a member of nearby Links course, Royal Hoylake. Between Jordan and Fleetwood, there was a bunch of players. Swede Marcus Kinhult, another good Links-playing youngster, shot 65 and three players, including the battle-scarred 46-year-old veteran Lee Westwood were at six-under each. Westwood had six more holes to play. Chawrasia, playing in the first group on a cold, windy and wet day, wore three layers and had an umbrella open for 16 holes. His sole birdie was on the second, the 11th of the course, and he gave away five bogeys in the next seven. He parred his second nine but ended at 76. Bhullar had three birdies on second, third and seventh, but bogeys on first, eighth, 12th and 13th pegged him to one-over before a birdie on 15th helped him return to even. Sharma opened with five pars followed by a birdie before dropping two shots in three holes on seventh and ninth to turn in one-over. Jordan, who had his first Top-10 finish as a pro two weeks ago in Turkey in the Challenge, has played well at Links courses like the Lytham and St Andrews, where he has amateur wins. Jordan started birdie-birdie and had five in first eight and then there were more on 10th, 11th, 13th and 15th, at which point he was nine-under with three to go. Just as a 60 appeared on the horizon birdies dried up. Fleetwood played and won the Hero Challenge and then launched his Academy. Next week, he is also due to play the PGA at Bethpage as he searches for his maiden Major. On Thursday, he had an eagle on second, his 11th. He had three other birdies and one bogey on sixth. Kinhult shot seven-under 65 with eight birdies and one bogey, while Richie Ramsay and Thomas Detry finished six-under 66. Jack Singh Brar and Sean Crocker finished at 67 each. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) President Donald Trump said Thursday he is studying the situation in North Korea "very seriously," after Pyongyang welcomed a US envoy's visit to Seoul by firing two missiles. "We're looking at it very seriously right now. They were smaller missiles, short range missiles - nobody's happy about it," Trump told reporters. "The relationship continues - but we'll see what happens," Trump added. "I know they want to negotiate, they're talking about negotiating, but I don't think they are ready to negotiate. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) US President Donald Trump rushed to his son's defence Thursday, saying he was "very surprised" by a Senate panel's order that Donald Trump Jr testify as part of its investigation into Russia election interference. "I was very surprised," Trump told reporters about the Senate Intelligence Committee's subpoena of his eldest of five children. It was the first known legal summons issued by Congress to a member of the president's family to force testimony in the ongoing investigation. The order comes after Special Counsel Robert Mueller decided there was insufficient evidence to accuse Trump's 2016 campaign of criminal conspiracy to collude with the Russians. "My son is a very good person, he works very hard. The last thing he needs is Washington DC. I think he'd rather not ever be involved," Trump said. Trump Jr has already testified at length to the committee, which is run by Republicans, and was "totally exonerated by Mueller," Trump said. "For my son, after being exonerated, to now get a subpoena to go again, to speak again after close to 20 hours after telling everybody that would listen about a nothing meeting? Yeah, I'm pretty surprised." The 41-year-old Don Jr testified voluntarily in private once to the committee, and was peppered with questions about a June 9, 2016 meeting in Trump Tower in New York that he and other senior Trump campaign officials had with a Russian lawyer offering dirt on Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton. He was also quizzed about direct communications he had with Julian Assange, the founder of WikiLeaks, which leaked damaging documents and communications stolen by Russians from Clinton's campaign. Trump said part of his surprise stems from seeing the committee's chairman, Republican Senator Richard Burr, tell US media that there was no evidence of collusion between Trump or his campaign and Russian operatives to influence the 2016 election. He also argued that his son and others were merely conducting routine "oppo research" by holding the meeting, as a way to search for damaging information on Trump's 2020 Democratic rival Hillary Clinton. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Just over one-third of the world's 246 longest rivers remain free-flowing, according to a study which found that dams and reservoirs are drastically reducing the diverse benefits offered by healthy rivers. A team of international researchers, including those from McGill University in Canada and World Wildlife Fund (WWF), assessed the connectivity status of 12 million kilometers of rivers worldwide. The study, published in the journal Nature, provides the first-ever global assessment of the location and extent of the planet's remaining free-flowing rivers. Researchers determined that only 21 of the world's 91 rivers longer than 1,000 kilometres that originally flowed to the ocean still retain a direct connection from source to sea. The planet's remaining free-flowing rivers are largely restricted to remote regions of the Arctic, the Amazon Basin, and the Congo Basin. "The world's rivers form an intricate network with vital links to land, groundwater, and the atmosphere," said lead author Gunther Grill of McGill's Department of Geography. "Free-flowing rivers are important for humans and the alike, yet economic development around the world is making them increasingly rare. "Using satellite imagery and other data, our study examines the extent of these rivers in more detail than ever before," Grill said. Dams and reservoirs are the leading contributors to connectivity loss in global rivers. The study estimates there are around 60,000 large dams worldwide, and more than 3,700 hydropower dams are currently planned or under construction. They are often planned and built at the individual project level, making it difficult to assess their real impacts across an entire basin or region. "Rivers are the lifeblood of our planet," said Michele Thieme, lead freshwater scientist at WWF. "They provide diverse benefits that are often overlooked and undervalued. "This first-ever map of the world's remaining free-flowing rivers will help decision makers prioritise and protect the full value rivers give to people and nature," Thieme said. Healthy rivers support freshwater fish stocks that improve food security for hundreds of millions of people, deliver sediment that keeps deltas above rising seas, researchers said. They also mitigate the impact of extreme floods and droughts, prevent loss of infrastructure and fields to erosion, and support a wealth of biodiversity. Disrupting rivers' connectivity often diminishes or even eliminates these critical ecosystem services. Protecting remaining free-flowing rivers is also crucial to saving biodiversity in freshwater systems. Recent analysis of 16,704 populations of wildlife globally showed that populations of freshwater species experienced the most pronounced decline of all vertebrates over the past half-century, falling on average 83 per cent since 1970, researchers said. The study also notes that climate change will further threaten the health of rivers worldwide. Rising temperatures are already impacting flow patterns, water quality, and biodiversity. As countries around the world shift to low-carbon economies, hydropower planning and development is accelerating, adding urgency to the need to develop energy systems that minimise overall environmental and social impact, researchers said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A federal American commission will vote Thursday on a proposal to ban from entering the American market, its Indian American head told lawmakers on Wednesday. "Senator, hopefully, the FCC will vote on Thursday to agree with my proposal to ban from entering the US market," Ajit Pai, the Chairman Federal Communication Commission (FCC), told members of Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Financial Services and General Government during a Congressional hearing. Responding to questions from lawmakers, Pai acknowledged that certain Chinese suppliers such as Huawei do indeed present a threat to the United States either on their own or because of Chinese domestic law. "For example, China's national intelligence law explicitly requires any individual or entity subject to that law to comply with the request for the intelligence services," he said. "That is the problem because especially when you are talking about networks that are deployed in one country and could be managed by software that is resident in another country that presents some security risk I think and those risks to me are unacceptable when it comes to the deployment of networks on our shores," Pai said. Pai said that FCC during its open meeting for the month on May 9, will act to promote secure communications -- a long-standing FCC priority. In 2011, USA, which is ultimately owned by the Chinese government, applied to the Commission seeking to provide telecommunications services in the United States. Consistent with agency policy, FCC solicited the views of the relevant federal agencies on whether the application raised national security, law enforcement, or related concerns. After a lengthy review of the application and in consultation with the US intelligence community, in 2018, the Executive Branch agencies recommended that the FCC deny China Mobile USA's application due to substantial national security and law enforcement concerns that cannot be resolved through an agreement with the company (called "voluntary mitigation"). "Notably, this is the first time the Executive Branch has ever recommended that the FCC deny an application due to national security concerns. Based on this recommendation and the full public record in this proceeding, I have determined that approving this application would not serve the public interest," Pai said. "At our May meeting, the Commission, therefore, will vote on an order that would deny China Mobile USA's application," he asserted, adding that going forward, FCC will continue to use its statutory authority to protect the people and overall security of the United States. That includes following through with its proposal to ban the use of money from the FCC's Universal Service Fund from being used by recipients to procure equipment or services from that pose a national security threat to our communications networks or the communications supply chain. During the hearing, Senators expressed concerns over the threat being posed by networks. "I'm very concerned and fear that the US is falling behind on the race to 5G and we simply can't let that happen in this race with China. The 5G economy is going to lead to a breakthrough in jobs, information, connectivity. However, other countries are making four times more Mid-Band Spectrum available in the next few years compared to the United States," Senator Steve Daines said. Mid-Band Spectrum will be a key component to make 5G a reality, he said. "We need to stop just talking about 5G and actually take some action and see some real solutions," he said. Pai said the auction of 5G spectrum in the US will proceed in 2020. "In the meantime, we've been working with some of our other federal partners on things like the environmental sensing capabilities to make sure the deployments can occur as quickly as possible," he said. The FCC, he said, will continue to secure the nation's leadership in 5G, the next generation of wireless connectivity. 5G networks will be 100 times faster than today's networks, maybe even more, he added. "They will have lag times that are a tenth of what they are today. And they'll have much more capacity, being able to connect as many as one million devices per square kilometer," he said, noting that the work on 5G will open the door to new services and applications that will "grow our economy and improve our standard of living". Smart transportation networks will link connected cars -- reducing traffic, preventing accidents, and limiting pollution. Ubiquitous wireless sensors will enable healthcare professionals to remotely monitor your health and transmit data to doctor before problems become emergencies, he said. "Connected devices will empower farms to apply precision agriculture. And there will be more innovations that we can't even conceive of today. These breakthroughs will boost our economy. One study pegs 5G's potential at three million new jobs, USD275 billion in private investment, and USD500 billion in new economic growth, he said. Pai said FCC has developed a comprehensive strategy that will Facilitate America's Superiority in 5G Technology -- it's called the "5G FAST" plan. It has three key components: pushing more spectrum into the marketplace; promoting the deployment of wireless infrastructure; and modernizing outdated regulations. The US Navy said Thursday it has suspended its search for a Japanese air force F-35A stealth fighter that crashed off Japan's coast last month, after the allies scrambled to locate the aircraft filled with military secrets. The pilot is still missing. Japan's Defense Minister Takeshi Iwaya said his country would continue its search. The Navy said in a statement that it was withdrawing after its salvage vehicle, CURV 21, found unidentified debris from the aircraft. It crashed in the Pacific off the eastern coast of Aomori in northern Japan during a night training flight April 9. It went missing about half an hour after taking off from the Misawa air base with three other F-35As. The Navy was unusually quick in the salvage effort amid air and maritime activity in the region by China and Russia. It dispatched the guided-missile destroyer USS Stethem and P-8A Poseidon surveillance aircraft to join a Japanese search and rescue team. From April 9 to 17, the US search covered more than 5,000 square nautical miles (17,150 square kilometers) before deploying the remotely operated vehicle CURV 21, which is capable of salvage operation at the maximum depth of 20,000 feet (6,000 meters). Iwaya told the Upper House Diplomatic and Defense Affairs Committee that the U.S. salvage vehicle recovered parts of a flight data recorder but the flight data were missing. The joint effort using sonar search by the Japanese deep undersea vehicle Kaimei also located and recovered parts of a canopy and other equipment, he said. Iwaya said Japan's deep sea research vehicle has also withdrawn, but the surface and underwater search was continuing with the participation of Japanese Air Self-Defense Force vessels as well as a private salvage boat. "We will continue our search and recovery of the pilot and the aircraft that are still missing, while doing utmost to determine the cause," he said. The cause of the crash is under investigation, and findings could affect Japan's F-35 purchase plans, though officials say there is no change. Japan started deploying the expensive F-35s last year as part of the plan to bolster its defense spending and weapons capability to counter potential threats from North Korea and China. Under guidelines approved in December, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's government plans to buy 147 F-35s, including 105 F-35As, costing about 10 billion yen (USD 90 million) each. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The US Air Force has tested a missile on the same day that North Korea is suspected of having launched two short-range missiles. The Air Force says it launched a Minuteman 3 intercontinental ballistic missile on Thursday from Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. It says the launch was part of regularly scheduled tests of ICBMs to ensure they are ready for potential combat. It said the test was unrelated to any world events. It was the second such test in a little over a week. The Air Force normally does four or five such tests each year. The ICBM test launches are planned months in advance. The Air Force moved a Minuteman 3 missile from a launch silo controlled by the 90th Missile Wing at F.E. Warren Air Force Base in Wyoming to the launch site at Vandenberg. North Korea's launch was its second in five days and a possible warning that nuclear disarmament talks with Washington could be in danger. South Korea's military says North Korea has fired two suspected short-range missiles. South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff earlier said North Korea fired at least one projectile from its western province on Thursday afternoon. The Joint Chiefs of Staff said later that the North fired what appeared to be two short-range missiles. It says they flew 420 kilometers (260 miles) and 270 kilometers (167 miles), respectively. It says South Korean and U.S. authorities are trying to find out more details about the launches. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The US will not "not back down" until China stops cheating American workers and stealing its jobs, President Donald Trump has said, as a top Chinese official started talks with his American counterparts on a trade deal. Asserting that the "era of economic surrender is over", Trump on Wednesday night said that he has announced to increase tariff on about USD 200 billion worth of Chinese products from 10 per cent to 25 per cent. "We won't back down until China stops cheating our workers and stealing their jobs and that is what's going to happen. Otherwise, we don't have to do business with them. We don't have to do business. We can make the product right here if we have to like we used to. Remember like we used to," Trump said amidst applause from his supporters in Florida. Trump had agreed to pause his proposed increase in import tariff from China after he and his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping last December agreed to conclude a trade deal in 100 days. The deadline could not be met, but Trump deferred his decision on imposing new tariffs of Chinese products. But after China allegedly went back on its commitment which he had agreed during the negotiations and was incorporated in the trade deal, Trump announced that he is going ahead with new tariffs on import if Chinese products beginning May 10. "The era of economic surrender is over," Trump said. The US has a trade imbalance of more than USD 500 billion with China. "The last administration signed a disastrous trade deal with South Korea that cost our country nearly 100,000 jobs but it was really 250,000 jobs. And if you remember our secretary of state at the time and our president at the time said this will give 250,000 jobs and he and she were right except it was for South Korea, not for us," he said. "It's a loser and we totally renegotiated the Korea trade deal to restore these jobs and rescue the American auto industry because that was going to be a tremendous...And that deal is done," Trump said. "Right before I came into office our nation was being signed up for a one-sided single sellout like you've never seen of the American worker and I said it's not going to happen; the Trans-Pacific Partnership was going to destroy our automobile industry like you've never seen before and our automobile industry is pouring back into our country," he said. The previous administrations, he alleged, allowed China to freely loot US economy, plunder intellectual property and target industries for destruction. "That is what was happening. And look President Xi is a friend of mine, a great guy but he's for China. I'm for the USA. I'm for the USA," he said. Trump said he is not worried about the fate of the US-China trade negotiations. "So we are going to see. They come in tomorrow and whatever happens don't worry about it. It will all work out. You know why? It always does. Don't worry about it. There is no pressure because you know we are the piggy bank that everybody wants to rob, you understand that," he said. "So, we have the thing that everybody wants, we are now the biggest market in the world by far. I will tell you China was catching us," Trump said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Venezuela's Supreme Court announced the indictment of three more lawmakers on Wednesday for backing the failed April 30 uprising orchestrated by opposition leader Juan Guaido. The three -- named as Freddy Superlano, Sergio Vergara and Juan Andres Mejia -- are accused of high treason and conspiracy. It brings to 10 the number of opposition lawmakers indicted for supporting Guaido, following a court announcement indicting seven others on Tuesday. Soon after the announcement, the Constituent Assembly -- which effectively acts as a regime rubber stamp -- stripped the seven of their parliamentary immunity. The Constituent Assembly has said it would suspend the immunity of any lawmakers who backed the uprising, which set off two days of clashes between security forces and protesters. Attorney General Tarek William Saab says the clashes left six people dead. Dozens more were injured and more than 233 were arrested. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Venezuelan intelligence agents arrested Wednesday the deputy leader of the opposition-dominated National Assembly, a move immediately denounced by its leader Juan Guaido. Edgar Zambrano, Guaido's deputy as National Assembly speaker, was detained by intelligence agents in Caracas for backing the failed April 30 uprising orchestrated by Guaido. "We warn the people of Venezuela and the international community: the regime has kidnapped the first vice-president" of the National Assembly, Guaido said in a Twitter message. "They are trying to destroy the power representing all Venezuelans, but they will not achieve it," Guaido said. Separately, Venezuela's Supreme Court indicted three more lawmakers for backing Guaido's uprising. The three -- named as Freddy Superlano, Sergio Vergara and Juan Andres Mejia -- are accused of high treason and conspiracy. It brings to 10 the number of opposition lawmakers indicted for supporting Guaido, following a court announcement indicting seven others on Tuesday. Soon after the announcement, the Constituent Assembly -- which effectively acts as a regime rubber stamp -- stripped the seven of their parliamentary immunity. Guaido, who is recognized as Venezuela's interim president by more than 50 countries, was himself stripped of his immunity on April 2. The Constituent Assembly has said it would suspend the immunity of any lawmakers who backed the uprising, which set off two days of clashes between security forces and protesters. Attorney General Tarek William Saab says the clashes left six people dead. Dozens more were injured and more than 233 were arrested. Guaido said in a speech after the first indictments on Tuesday that the government's "only response... is to persecute, because they no longer govern, because they no longer have command. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Rumors of his death denied. The patriarch Emeritus is hospitalized at the Hotel-Dieu in Ashrafieh. He is set to turn 99 next week. Known as "the patriarch of the second independence". Patriarch Rai asks for prayers. Beirut (AsiaNews) - The Maronite patriarch Beshara Rai has postponed a trip to Africa, due to the "critical health condition" of his predecessor, the patriarch emeritus Nasrallah Sfeir. A statement released yesterday from Bkerke announces that Card. Rais journey to Nigeria, set for today, was postponed to 21 May. The statement adds that Rai wants to be close to Sfeir and asks all the faithful to pray for the recovery of the patriarch Emeritus. Yesterday Card. Rai visited the Hotel-Dieu hospital in Ashrafieh, where Sfeir is hospitalized. After him, several political personalities also arrived. Prime Minister Saad Hariri telephoned the hospital to learn about the health of the patriarch emeritus. Some media spread the rumor that Sfeir was dead, a rumor denied by Rai. Dr. Elias Sfeir announced that the conditions of the patriarch emeritus are critical but stable. He suffers from pulmonary and urinary infections. Sfeir's last public appearance was next to Card. Rai on Easter Sunday, when they received greetings from the head of state, Michel Aoun. Born May 15, 1920, Sfeir is expected to turn 99 years next week. He became the Maronite patriarch of Antioch in 1986. Benedict XVI accepted his resignation in 2011. Sfeir was a witness and actor of the last part of the Lebanese war, of the Taef peace agreements, of the revolt against the Syrian occupation. For this he is called "the patriarch of the second independence". Three people, including the husband of a village head, were arrested in Maharashtra's Thane district for allegedly taking a bribe of Rs 50,000 from a man to help him in a property matter, the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) said. Nagaon grampanchayat official Udayraj Shelke (36) and the village sarpanch's husband Prabhakar Madavi (42) allegedly demanded Rs 50,000 from the man, who owned a 'chawl' (old style tenement), to help him in a tax related issue, the ACB said in a release. The man agreed to pay the amount and at the same time lodged a complaint with the ACB, it said. The anti-graft agency laid a trap and caught one Dileep Deshmukh (27) on Wednesday while he was accepting Rs 50,000 on behalf of the other two accused at the Nagaon panchayat office, the release said. The ACB said when the complainant went to pay the money, the accused increased the demand to Rs 1 lakh and accepted Rs 50,000 as the first installment. Later, the ACB also managed to arrest Shelke and Madavi who were present near the spot, the release said. All the three accused were booked under relevant sections of the Prevention of Corruption Act, it added. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A day after he accused Rajiv Gandhi of using warship INS Viraat as a "personal taxi" for a family holiday, the Congress alleged that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is spreading canards and lies during elections and said it proves his "imminent defeat". Modi is a "Master of Dis-Information" and his party is "Bahut Jhooth Party" (BJP), Congress spokesperson Abhishek Singhvi told reporters on Thursday, adding to the long list of name calling by parties against each other in the ongoing Lok Sabha election. Singhvi alleged that PM Modi was spreading disinformation and lies about former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi taking his family on INS Viraat when he was in office and quoted former Navy chief Admiral (Retd.) L Ramdas and other Naval officers of the time that Gandhi was on an official visit then. "Lies, propaganda and canards can never succeed beyond a very short shelf-life. Truth has to triumph. Howsoever much the 'Bahut Jhooth Party' will try to spread disinformation, the people of India know the truth," he told reporters, adding that the people of India will not be swayed by such statements. The Congress leader accused Modi of "demeaning" the office of Prime Minister and said "you have regressed far from progressing". He asked what relation does Rajiv Gandhi's visit to a Naval ship have "in 2019, to the issue of jobs he promised in the air and to agricultural distress or demonetisation which crushed our MSMEs". Singhvi also said that people know when a party revives a citizenship issue in the middle of elections after five years in power, "without a shred of legal or factual finding against Congress President Rahul Gandhi, it is only proving their own frustration on knowing their defeat". "This kind of disinformation is not new, it makes Mr Modi and his government hold a Guinness record on lies and propaganda," he said. Singhvi said the BJP attacked former PM Rajiv Gandhi on Bofors omitting to even mention about the 2004 judgement, which the BJP never appealed. In 2018, the case was dismissed by the Supreme Court. "I cannot imagine how a PM in the middle of the election in 2019 can talk about a former PM who has been dead for over 30 years and about his purported visit to a naval ship. "It is nothing but Mr Modi and the BJP trying to hide their failures. It is abject acceptance and surrender to defeat, knowing the internal reports and the booth reports of the 5 phases," he said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The war of words between the Congress and the BJP turned shriller on Wednesday as the opposition party hit back at Prime Minister Narendra Modi after he accused Rajiv Gandhi of using warship INS Viraat as a "personal taxi" for a family holiday, saying he is spreading "canards and lies" due to "imminent defeat". Seeking to turn the tables on Modi, the Congress accused him of misusing IAF aircraft for his poll campaign. The opposition party addressed three press conferences during the day to rebut Modi's allegations and cited statements of three former Navy Vice Admirals, who claimed that then prime minister Rajiv Gandhi was on an official visit to Lakshadweep when he also visited INS Viraat. They also claimed that there was no foreigner on board the Naval warship. The party charged Modi with being a "serial liar", dubbed him a "Master of Dis-Iinformation" and his party as "Bahut Jhooth Party" (BJP), and said he is "demeaning" the office of the Prime Minister. "Lies, propaganda and canards can never succeed beyond a very short shelf-life. Truth has to triumph. Howsoever much the 'Bahut Jhooth Party' will try to spread disinformation, the people of India know the truth," Congress spokesperson Abhishek Singhvi told reporters on Thursday, alleging Modi was spreading "lies" about former prime minister Rajiv Gandhi but people of India will not be swayed by such statements. The Congress leader accused Modi of "demeaning" the office of Prime Minister and said "you have regressed far from progressing". He said the party reserves its legal rights "in respect to this falsehood. We reserve our rights to go to Election Commission. But, the point remains, this government, this Prime Minister, this set of people governing us have been shamefully exposed." The Congress attack came on a day when the Supreme Court set to rest the issue of Rahul Gandhi's citizenship by dismissing a petition on it. Singhvi asked what relation does Rajiv Gandhi's visit to a naval ship have "in 2019, to the issue of jobs he promised in the air and to agricultural distress or demonetisation which crushed our MSMEs". He said people know when a party revives a citizenship issue in the middle of elections after five years in power, "without a shred of legal or factual finding against Congress chief Rahul Gandhi, it's proving their own frustration on knowing their defeat". Congress' chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala cited a media report to attack the prime minister. "Distraction and fakery is your last resort. You have made Indian Air Force jets your own Taxi! You have paid as low as Rs 744 for using IAF jets for election trips!" Surjewala tweeted. "Scared of your own sins haunting you, you are shamelessly pointing fingers at others!" he said, in an apparent reference to Modi's allegation against Rajiv Gandhi. Senior Congress leader Ahmed Patel said abusing a "martyred prime minister" is the sign of "ultimate cowardice". "Rajiv ji lost his life due to their hatred and is no longer here amongst us to answer the baseless allegations and abuses which are being unleashed on him. Abusing a martyred prime minister is the sign of ultimate cowardice," Patel tweeted. "But who is responsible for his assassination? The BJP backed V P Singh government refused to provide him with additional security and left him with one PSO despite credible intelligence inputs and repeated requests," he alleged. Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera said, "Modiji tells us that 30 years ago Rajiv Gandhi went for a holiday in INS Viraat. The prime minister is a serial liar. A senior official has exposed his lies today. "Vice Admiral (retd) Vinod Pasricha appeared on channels some time back and stated that this is a lie and the then PM was on an official visit and not on a holiday." Congress' social media strategist Divya Spandana also slammed Prime Minister Narendra Modi for allegedly taking Canadian citizen Akshay Kumar with him onboard Indian Navy warship Sumitra. Singhvi said this kind of "disinformation" is not new to Modi as he and his government "hold a Guinness record on lies and propaganda." "I ask you Mr Prime Minister, when will this stop, when will this distortion, falsehood, fakehood, stop? We know that you will not apologise although you should immediately. Forget Shri Rahul Gandhi and forget the late lamented, dead Prime Minister Shri Rajiv Gandhi, but, at least apologise to this nation," Singhvi said. The Congress leader alleged that these attempts are to "divert, digress and derail the real issues -- MSMEs, demonetisation, agricultural distress, Rafale, jobs. We know that you will try to derail them, but, a time has come, when you should stand exposed, your Government should stand expose." Singhvi said that if Raja Harishchandra is a symbol of truth in this country, "with the kind of lies, lies and lies, repeated day in and day out, by no less than the Prime Minister, unfortunately, he and that post has become the symbol of falsehood and untruthfulness." He said it was sad day for India when that position and seat becomes a "symbol of falsehood", claiming that three Vice-Admirals, Arun Prakash Pasricha, Madanjit Singh and Ramdas have rebutted PM's claims and recalled unanimously about the events of 32 years ago. "It is nothing but Mr Modi and the BJP trying to hide their failures. It is abject acceptance and surrender to defeat, knowing the internal reports and the booth reports of the 5 phases," he said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) BJP chief Amit Shah Thursday asked the opposition parties who will be the prime minister if the 'gathbandhan' is voted to power, raising the issue of possible disagreement among them on their PM candidate. "On Monday, Mayawati will be prime minister. On Tuesday, it will be Sharad Pawar and someone else on Wednesday," Shah said at an election rally in Siddharthnagar. He claimed many of the opposition leaders are in only to "realise" their vested interests, hide corruption and for their families. He contrasted the situation in the Opposition camp with the BJP, saying his party has declared Narendra Modi as its prime ministerial candidate. "If voted to power, Narendra Modi will become prime minister. But I want to ask Rahul Baba, bua-bhatija (Akhilesh Yadav and Mayawati), as to who will be the leader of your gathbandhan?," Shah said. Shah was addressing election rallies in Siddharthnagar and Balrampur during his day-long visit to Uttar Pradesh to woo voters for the remaining two phases of Lok Sabha polls on May 12 and 19. Attacking the SP, the BSP and the Congress, Shah said, "For almost 55 years, there was a Congress government in the country. The SP and the BSP had ruled UP for years, but the condition of the poor did not improve. On the contrary, Modiji in a time span of five years gave gas ovens, toilets and houses to poor people". The BJP chief said, "After the Balakot air strike, Rahul Baba, Bua-Bhatija became sad (chehre latak gaye). They thought that their vote bank had become angry. Why was disturbance in their camp when the IAF had killed terrorists in Pakistan? Were they (terrorists) their maternal-paternal brothers?" "The security of the country is of top priority to us. If a bullet (goli) comes to us from Pakistan, our people will retaliate with a shell (golaa)," he said amidst applause from the crowd. He said that the BJP is working to make Uttar Pradesh a developed state. Siddharthnagar, which comes under Domariyaganj parliamentary constituency, goes to polls on May 12. Earlier at a rally in Balrampur, Shah accused the SP and the BSP of favouring certain castes and working for them and said the BJP, on the contrary, believed in the mantra of 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas'. The BJP president said, "The SP and BSP are casteist and dynastic parties. When one was in power, it favoured a specific caste and worked for it. "Similarly, when the second was in power, it favoured another caste. The work of the society took a back seat," he said. On the contrary, he said, the BJP believes in the mantra of 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas' and it never asks caste while undertaking development works. "The Modi-Modi slogan, which can be heard across the country, is not merely an election slogan. This is the blessings of the countrymen on Modiji. The slogan tells that when counting of votes will take place on May 23, Modiji will be the next Prime Minister." Taking a jibe at Rahul Gandhi and Akhilesh Yadav, the BJP chief said, "For the past 70 years, the country was looking for a leader who will live for the country and not for himself. I know Modiji for the past 20 years, he has not taken an off for even a single day. Modi works for 18 hours a day. However, Akhilesh and Rahul go abroad on vacation to cooler climes even if the temperature rises slightly. Rahul Baba's mother does not even know where her son has gone abroad". Shah also said that the during the tenure of the SP, the BSP and the Congress, the poor could not afford treatment in hospitals. "Modiji brought Ayushman Bharat Yojana," he said, claiming lakhs of people have availed the benefit of free treatment within four months. "The poor people have got a right to live," he said. Referring to the law and order situation in the state, the BJP chief said, "Earlier it was the policemen, who were afraid of criminals. But, after Yogi Adityanath came to power, the criminals have started fearing the police and are requesting the cops to arrest them and not kill them in encounters." He also accused the past governments of the SP and the BSP of turning a blind eye to land grabbers. "After the formation of the Yogi Adityanath government, work of protecting the land of the poor has started. We have also put an end to illegal abattoirs in the state," he said. Shah also claimed that UP during the Sonia-Manmohan era got Rs 3.30 lakh crore, whereas when Modi became the prime minister, the state received funds amounting to Rs 10.27 lakh crore. The BJP chief also mentioned that it was the saffron party which gave 10 per cent reservation to the economically weaker sections without disturbing the quota for the backward people. He also listed various welfare projects done by the Centre for the people in this area in the past five years. Shrawasti, spread over Bhinga, Shrawasti, Tulsipur, Gainsari and Balrampur assembly segments, goes to polls on May 12. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A man allegedly ran over a woman and her mother more than once and stoned them to death in Rajasthan's Jodhpur district on Thursday after her marriage was fixed with someone else, police said. The accused, Sukharam, jumped into a canal after the incident near Tiwari village of Osian area in the afternoon, the police said. Prime facie, Sukharam had a relationship with the woman, Indra, and wanted to marry her. But Indra's mother, Dami Devi (45), fixed her marriage somewhere else, said Deputy Commissioner of Police (East) Dharmendra Singh. According to eyewitnesses, the three were seen talking inside the car, but suddenly the women got down and started walking. Sukharam then allegedly ran them over two-three times with his car and threw stones at them. The accused then jumped into a canal after leaving his car nearby and is yet to be traced, the police said. While Indra died on the spot, her mother succumbed to injuries en route to the hospital. The women, who are Pakistani migrants and had been living in the area for several years, are said to have obtained Indian citizenship in 2005, the police said. "We have been searching for him in the canal using a net and other measures like controlling the water flow in the canal," Singh said. A pair of slippers and a T-shirt with blood stains have been found near the canal. Witnesses are being interrogated in order to ascertain more facts about the incident. The son of the deceased is also being questioned for details, the DCP added. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) TCNS Clothing Co. Ltd TCNS Clothing Co. Limited is India's leading women's branded apparel company in terms of total number of exclusive brand outlets as of May 2018 according to Technopak. The Company designs manufactures markets and retails a wide portfolio of women's branded apparel across multiple brands. The Company sells its products across India and through multiple distribution channels. As of March 31 2019 the...> More Instagram is a popular social media platform that can serve as a valuable marketing tool for your business. You can create a business account on Instagram by first creating a personal account and converting it. To get the most out of Instagram, use high-quality photos, respond to comments and use hashtags wisely. This article is for small business owners and marketers who want to learn how to use Instagram for business. Instagram is one of the most popular social media platforms, with nearly 112.5 million users in 2020. From gathering insights to selling products, Instagram keeps rolling out tools to help business owners succeed on the photo-sharing social media platform. It's not too late to join and become successful on Instagram. With the right marketing strategy, businesses can promote products and services, boost their brand, and increase sales on Instagram. Here is everything you need to know about using it to market your business. Tip: When it comes to setting up Instagram for your business, you can create a new business account from scratch or convert your personal account into a business account. Creating a business Instagram account How to create an Instagram business profile from scratch: Download the Instagram app for iOS, Android or Windows on your smartphone or tablet. Click Sign up. Enter your email address. It's a good idea to use your business email, or an email designated specifically for your business's social media accounts. You can also log in with Facebook if you already have a business account there. Choose a username and password. You have now created a "personal" Instagram account that can be converted to a business profile. Follow the steps below to convert your account. How to convert a personal Instagram profile to a business profile: Go to your profile and press the three bars in the upper right-hand corner. Tap Settings, and select Switch to business profile. Instagram also recommends that you connect your business profile on Instagram with your business's Facebook page. Add details about your business, including your name, username, profile picture, website URL and a short biography. Be sure to include contact information so your followers can connect with you. Instagram terminology To get the most out of Instagram, it is a good idea to be up to date on some of the social media platform's terminology. Bio: This refers to the biography section in your profile. Businesses can also use their bio to include a call to action. This refers to the biography section in your profile. Businesses can also use their bio to include a call to action. Direct messages (DMs): Users can privately communicate with each other through direct messages. If a customer has a complaint or question, it's best practice to chat with them via direct message to keep the conversation private. Direct messages are often referred to as DMs. Users can privately communicate with each other through direct messages. If a customer has a complaint or question, it's best practice to chat with them via direct message to keep the conversation private. Direct messages are often referred to as DMs. Filters: You can apply preset filters to your photos to enhance features and colors. You can apply preset filters to your photos to enhance features and colors. Follow: When you follow a user on Instagram, you'll see their content in your timeline. You can also view their Instagram Stories at the top of the application. When you follow a user on Instagram, you'll see their content in your timeline. You can also view their Instagram Stories at the top of the application. Followers: Your followers are people who will see your pictures in their timelines. Your followers are people who will see your pictures in their timelines. Hashtag (#): Similar to Twitter, a hashtag on Instagram is used to index words or phrases. When you click on a hashtag, you'll see other posts with the same one. Similar to Twitter, a hashtag on Instagram is used to index words or phrases. When you click on a hashtag, you'll see other posts with the same one. Highlights: A highlight reel of your Instagram Stories appears on your profile above your photo gallery and stays until you remove it. A highlight reel of your Instagram Stories appears on your profile above your photo gallery and stays until you remove it. Home: Tap the home button to land on your home screen, which is also your timeline or feed. Here you'll see photos from those you follow. Tap the home button to land on your home screen, which is also your timeline or feed. Here you'll see photos from those you follow. IG: IG is an abbreviation for Instagram. IG is an abbreviation for Instagram. Instagram handle: Your handle is your username. To mention a user on Instagram, you need to use their handle, which always starts with the @ symbol. Your handle is your username. To mention a user on Instagram, you need to use their handle, which always starts with the @ symbol. Instagram Stories: Stories is one of the most popular features on the platform. These pictures and videos disappear after 24 hours. Read more about Instagram Stories below. Stories is one of the most popular features on the platform. These pictures and videos disappear after 24 hours. Read more about Instagram Stories below. Tag: There are a few ways to tag people on Instagram, including in a photo's caption, in Instagram Stories and in photos. Use the @ symbol to tag someone in a caption or an Instagram story. You can tag someone in your photos before you post the picture. How to use Instagram for business Between posts, ads and stories, there is no shortage of potential marketing tools on Instagram. Now that you know how to build your profile and understand the common Instagram terminology, here's how to use Instagram to build your business. 1. Add professional-looking photos. Instagram is a photo-sharing social media platform, so it's important to share visually pleasing content. Generic photos won't cut it. Take photos, edit them, and take the time to make sure you're creating a cohesive grid on Instagram. [Read related article: 12 Best Photo Editing Apps for Business] To add a new photo, tap the camera button at the bottom of your screen. You can take a new photo or select one from your camera roll. On the next screen, there are multiple options to personalize your post. You can add a filter, tag other users, write a caption and add a location. You can also turn off comments on this page with the advanced settings. 2. Use Instagram Stories. Instagram Stories is one of the channel's most popular features. These photos and videos disappear 24 hours after they're posted. Instagram offers many tools that make it easy to create engaging and creative stories. "Small businesses should leverage Instagram Stories to market their products and services, getting their messages to followers that otherwise might not see regular Instagram posts in their feed because of the latest updates to the algorithm," said Laura Kenat, content coordinator at Jo Chicago. On Instagram Stories, you can post recorded videos, still photos, live videos, boomerangs (videos that loop back and forth), basic text, music and focused photos. You can also add stickers such as your location, the temperature, user tags and hashtags. The stickers for polls, questions and sliding bars make it easy to interact with your users and get feedback. Some accounts use the questions feature to hold a weekly Ask Me Anything, which is a fun way to answer common questions. Another way to draw attention to your brand is with Stories Highlights, which stay on your profile until you remove them. 3. Stream live videos. In addition to Instagram Stories, users can take and stream live video that disappears sort of like a cross between Facebook Live and Snapchat. You can give customers a live look behind the scenes of interesting aspects of your business, show products or answer live questions through the comments. Once the video ends, it lives in your Instagram Stories for 24 hours. If you want a video to remain on your Instagram feed, you can upload a video you've taken or shoot one directly through the app to post. If you choose to shoot or upload a video, you can still add filters and change the cover. 4. Interact with other Instagram users. As with any social media platform, it's important to engage and interact with your followers on Instagram. Here's how. Liking: Liking is a simple way to connect with other users. To like a photo, either double tap the image or tap the heart button under the post. Commenting: Next to the like button is a comment button just tap it, and the app will take you to the comments page for that photo, with a text box where you can enter what you want to say. Hit Post when it's complete. Mentioning: As on Twitter, you can use the @ symbol to tag other users in your Instagram comments or post captions. Tagging: Instagram allows you to add tags before you post content. To do so, tap Tag People before sharing your photo, and then tap where in the photo you want to add a tag. The app then prompts you to type in the person's name to search for their account. Once you've tagged other users in your photo and shared the image, other users can tap on the photo to see the people who are tagged. Direct messaging: To access Instagram Direct, go to the homepage and tap the button in the top right corner. Here, you can send private instant messages, photos and videos to other users. To send a new DM, tap the + button in the top right corner and select Send Photo or Video, or Send Message. Once you've sent the message, you and the recipients can message back and forth. Users who are not already following you will be asked whether they want to allow you to send them photos and videos before they can view your DM. Earlier this year, Facebook, which owns Instagram, plans integrated Instagram messaging with Facebook Messenger. This allows you to connect with your followers on Facebook and Instagram through one application. 5. Use hashtags. Hashtags are a great way to help users find content on Instagram. Hashtags can include letters and numbers, but they can't contain any non-numerical characters. For example, #DaveAndBusters works as a hashtag, but #Dave&Busters does not. Because users can both search for hashtags and click on hashtags they see in posts in the app, relevant hashtags can be a highly effective tool for getting noticed. However, make sure you're using the right hashtags for your brand. Hashtags such as #nofilter (a photo that hasn't been heavily edited with filters), #selfie (a picture of yourself), and #tbt or #throwbackthursday (old photos) are popular on Instagram, but they may not work for you or your brand. It's a good idea to look at other established brands or even personal users and bloggers in your industry for examples of what hashtags to use. Instagram allows a maximum of 30 hashtags in a post or comment, but that many would be excessive. The fewer hashtags you can use to get quality responses, the better. Using a lot of popular hashtags might earn you a lot of likes from other users, but it probably won't increase your following all that much, and the interactions you get will likely not be from people who are interested in your brand but rather those who just saw and liked your image. Once you understand hashtags, you can branch out and experiment to find which ones work best for your brand. It's also smart to create a custom hashtag for your business or even an event you're hosting. This way, customers can follow along with an event, even if they aren't there in person. 6. Advertise on Instagram. Like on other social channels, businesses have the option to advertise on Instagram. There are three formats for advertising: Photo ads: These look like regular photo posts, but they have a Sponsored label above the photo. They also have a Learn More button in the bottom right corner under the photo. These look like regular photo posts, but they have a Sponsored label above the photo. They also have a Learn More button in the bottom right corner under the photo. Video ads: Like the photo ads, these look like regular video posts, but with a Sponsored label on top. Like the photo ads, these look like regular video posts, but with a Sponsored label on top. Carousel ads: These ads look identical to photo ads but feature multiple photos that users can swipe through. All three ad formats appear in users' home feeds. These ads support four objectives: video views, click-throughs to your website, mobile app installations and mass awareness. [Need help with your Instagram marketing? Review our best picks for social media marketing tools] 7. Sell products on Instagram. In November 2020, Instagram added the Shop tab, which allows users to discover and purchase products from brands directly through the app. All that's required to complete a transaction is your name, email address, billing info and shipping addresses. Facebook, Instagram's parent company, will then save that data for future transactions. Users can pay via Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover and PayPal. Small businesses can also take advantage of Shoppable posts to sell products through Instagram. A business simply creates a product catalog connected to their account. Then you tag the product, similar to how you tag a person in a post. To create a shoppable post you must have a business account and you must sell physical goods that comply with Instagram's merchant agreement and commerce policies. You can create your catalog through Facebook, Shopify or BigCommerce. Key takeaway: To maximize Instagram for your business, be sure to interact with other users, use hashtags thoughtfully, post quality photos and use Stories. Other Instagram tips and tricks To get the most out of your Instagram account, keep these tips in mind. Links don't work in Instagram captions. The only place you can share a working link that takes users to a website is in your profile. Links don't work in captions or photo comments, so if you're trying to direct people to a specific webpage, you can change the default link in your bio to that page and note in the caption that the link is in your profile. Make sure your posts relate to your brand. It can be tempting to share photos of food, fashion and animals because they're popular on the platform. But if your business has nothing to do with those things, it could make you look disjointed and confuse your followers. Run giveaways and promotions. Post an image advertising your giveaway, sale or contest, and ask users to repost that image with a specific, custom hashtag to enter. You can then search that hashtag to see who has reposted it and pick a winner. Promotions like this allow your customers and followers to market your brand for you by talking about your promotion on their personal pages, and it drives more people to visit your profile. If you do decide to run a contest or sweepstakes, though, make sure you're following rules and guidelines. Respond to other users' comments. When people comment on your photos, reply to them. Interacting with customers and followers shows you are paying attention and care about what they say. They'll be more likely to continue following you and interacting with your pictures if they feel like they matter. Embed Instagram posts on your website. From the desktop version of Instagram, you can get an embed code to add specific images and videos to your company's website. This shows visitors that you're active on Instagram and can help you gain more followers. Just select the photo you want to embed, click the ellipsis button in the bottom right corner, and select Embed. This pulls up a box with the embed code and gives you the option to display the caption. From there, copy and paste the code where you want it to go on your website. Use Instagram influencers to promote your business. Influencers are people who have large followings on Instagram. You can pay influencers to market your products to their followers in a natural way. These sponsored posts typically are subtle and don't look like ads. This is helpful because people typically hate advertisements. Share posts directly to your story. With this feature, small businesses can interact with their followers while promoting their products or services. If a client posts a photo of your product, you can share the post directly to your story to highlight the product and your client. Use polls and other features in your stories. Instagram offers many interactive features that you can use to build online conversations and relationships. For instance, you can use the interactive questions sticker in Instagram Stories. This feature lets followers submit questions for you to answer. This is a fun and simple way to interact with your followers. Use IGTV. IGTV is a feature that shows long-form, vertical videos. IGTV is available in a stand-alone app and within Instagram's app, and each video can be up to an hour long. If you get creative, you can use IGTV to market your business in several ways, including by hosting FAQ sessions and conducting how-to chats. Check out our guide for more ways to use video marketing on social media. Use Reels. Launched in August 2020, Reels are one of Instagram's most recent updates. Reels are short-form videos (no longer than 15 seconds) that you can edit with audio, effects and creative tools. You can use Reels to feature new products, highlight your employees or recent work, or engage directly with customers. Additional reporting by Kiely Kuligowski. Some source interviews were conducted for a previous version of this article. Reliance Industries shares extended losses for the fourth straight session on Thursday, falling over 3 per cent in intra-day after brokerage firm Morgan Stanley downgraded the Mukesh Ambani-led company to "equal-weight" with price target of Rs 1,349 per share. Since May 3, RIL shares have lost 10.8 per cent, taking the overall market capitalisation loss to more than Rs 96,288 crore (over USD 13.76 billion) during this period. Continuing its losing streak, RIL share price declined as much as 3.45 per cent to touch an intra-day low of Rs 1251.50 against previous closing price of Rs 1,299.45 on the Bombay Stock Exchange. In line with the Indian benchmark indices, Sensex and Nifty, the RIL shares closed lower at Rs 1,255.15, down 3.41 per cent. Indian equity markets also settle in negative terrain for the seventh consecutive session on Thursday amid escalating US-China trade tension. In a similar trend, RIL shares ended 3.56 per cent lower at Rs 1,253.15 apiece on the National Stock Exchange. The index heavyweight opened lower at Rs 1,258.35 against previous close level of Rs 1,299.45, and touched an intra-day low of Rs 1,251.75. Also Read: Rakesh Jhunjhunwala turned Rs 1 lakh into Rs 7.5 lakh in 4 years with this stock! Here are three reasons for the weakness in the RIL shares: Rising debt and weak gross refining margin: The investors remained concerned over RIL's rising debt, and weak gross refining margin. RIL has an outstanding debt of Rs 2,87,505 crore and it grew by Rs 69,000 crore in financial year 2019 because of its investments in Reliance Jio. Rating downgrade by brokerage firm Morgan Stanley: The global rating agency has lowered RIL stock to "equal weight" with price target of Rs 1,349 per share. Morgan Stanley expects RIL's earnings growth to halve in FY20, after delivering a 17 percent compound annual growth rate (CAGR) between FY17 and FY19. "We expect RIL's two-year earnings upswing to reverse, yet investors are dismissing refining headwinds amid tighter crude markets. A rising glut in the gas and polyester markets could also slow growth into 2020. Upside appears limited amid core business drags, with no material capacity adds," Morgan Stanley said in a report. "We expect earnings growth to halve in F20, after a 17% CAGR, F17-F19. Downside earnings surprises in the energy business should unfold and attract increasing investor attention - a complete reversal in narrative after the positive triggers that played out since 2017. While the potential upside from digital investments could however offer structural upside as RIL rolls out new businesses, the cyclical headwinds in energy lead us to downgrade RIL to EW(equal weight)," the report said. Refining business faces headwinds: In March quarter, Reliance Industries Gross refining margin (GRM) shrinked to a 17-quarter low at USD 8.2 a barrel, dented by lower crude throughput due to planned maintenance. The earnings before interest and taxes (EBIT) of refining business declined by 19.8 per cent to Rs 19,868 crore in FY19. Also Read: This Tata Group firm has turned Rs 1 lakh investment to Rs 26 lakh in 10 years India is set to get its first Apple Inc retail store in Mumbai. The company has finalised a list of locations for its retail store. The iPhone-maker has reportedly zeroed in on several upscale sites in the economic hub of the country. The move comes as the tech giant is trying to establish a strong presence in the world's fastest-growing smartphone market. The Cupertino-based company is planning to make its final decision in the next few weeks. As per a report in Bloomberg, the spots are comparable to the iconic Fifth Avenue location in New York, the Regent Street store in London and the Champs-Elysees in Paris. Apple has been prohibited from opening its own retail stores in the country because it does not meet local sourcing requirements. However, it is now shifting its manufacturing units to India and is in talks with the government regarding its retail expansion. Apple, with its pricey products has struggled to establish itself in India, where customers are opting for cheaper Android based smartphones like Xiaomi and Vivo. Manufacturing in India will also help the company do away with 20 per cent tariffs on imported phones. "India is a very important market in the long term. It's a challenging market in the short term, but we're learning a lot. We plan on going in there with sort of all of our might," said Tim Cook after the company's earnings report last week. Separately, research firm Canalys estimated that Apple's shipments to India fell by more than 75 per cent in the first quarter of 2019. It now has only about 1 per cent of the country's smartphone market. Apple announced sizeable discounts on its latest iPhone XR in the country. It offered a cut of Rs 17,000, bringing the price to Rs 59,000. Also read: Google IO 2019: All major announcements from Pixel 3a to Android Q Also read: Foldable Phones: After Samsung debacle, is Google working on next-gen prototype? Popular medical, pharmaceutical and consumer goods company Johnson & Johnson (J&J) is once again in the soup regarding harmful raw materials in its products. The Food Safety and Drug Administration (FSDA) imposed a ban on the sale of J&J's baby shampoo in Uttar Pradesh on Wednesday. A team of FSDA officials raided Lucknow-based Central Store and also took more samples of J&J products for examination. According to a report in Amar Ujala, products of the company from across the state will be examined. AK Jain, FSDA's Drugs Controlling and Licensing Authority said that formaldehyde was discovered in products in batch number BB-59204 in Jaipur, which was supplied by Central Store. FSDA has also asked the company to take back the products of this batch. In fact, Jain said that the notice to ban J&J products was issued on April 29. On May 7, it imposed a ban on the sale of the products as well as it asked the company to take back the products of the particular batch. DMs of all the districts have also been informed about the same. During the raid in Central Store, it was revealed that 16,704 units of 100 ml shampoo bottles were dispatched to Balrampur, Kanpur, Azamgarh,Varanasi, Barabanki, Faizabad, Prayagraj and the rest of the state. Following this revelation, the FSDA has imposed a ban on the sale of J&J baby shampoo. The team also picked seven samples of products including baby shampoo, baby oil, massage oil, moisturiser, and face cream for examination. These samples have been sent to the lab. The FSDA will take further decision on the matter following the lab reports. Commenting on the developments, a Johnson & Johnson spokesperson said, "We did not accept the interim results of the Government Analyst that were based on unknown and unspecified methods and have contested these interim test results. We will await the results and conclusions of the re-testing process at the Central Drugs Laboratory. We are not aware of any directions from NCPCR. It must be noted that any such directions, under the law, can only be issued under certain prescribed conditions," further adding that the company is in full compliance with the current Indian regulatory requirements and standards for manufacturing and testing of all their products. "We have confirmed to the Indian authorities that we do not add formaldehyde as an ingredient in our shampoo nor does Johnson's baby shampoo contain any ingredient that can release formaldehyde over time. Our products are safe to use and products are sold." (This article has been updated with a statement from Johnson & Johnson) Also read: J&J directed to pay over Rs 2 crore to 2 patients for faulty hip implants Also read: P&G, Samsung, J&J under the scanner for not passing on GST rate cut benefits to consumers In a new Motu proprio Francis establishes the obligation of priests and bishops to report allegations of abuse and any attempt to cover up cases of abuse. " The crimes of sexual abuse offend Our Lord, cause physical, psychological and spiritual damage to the victims and harm the community of the faithful." Vatican City (AsiaNews) - From June 1 all priests, religious men and women who learn of an abuse or a case of covering up an abuse, have "the obligation" to report it to the bishop or religious superior and all the dioceses also have the obligation to equip themselves with stable systems that are easily accessible to the public to present reports of abuses. These are two of the most significant changes in the legislation against sexual abuse introduced by Pope Francis with the Motu proprio "Vos estis lux mundi", "You are the light of the world". "The crimes of sexual abuse offend Our Lord, cause physical, psychological and spiritual damage to the victims and harm the community of the faithful. In order that these phenomena, in all their forms, never happen again, a continuous and profound conversion of hearts is needed, attested by concrete and effective actions that involve everyone in the Church, so that personal sanctity and moral commitment can contribute to promoting the full credibility of the Gospel message and the effectiveness of the Churchs mission". Even if so much has already been accomplished, we must continue to learn from the bitter lessons of the past, looking with hope towards the future. This responsibility falls, above all, on the successors of the Apostles", that is, on the bishops and also on "all those who, in various ways, assume ministries in the Church, or profess the evangelical counsels, or are called to serve the Christian People. Therefore, it is good that procedures be universally adopted to prevent and combat these crimes that betray the trust of the faithful. Result of the meeting for the protection of minors convened by Francis in the Vatican last February, in which the presidents or representatives of all the episcopal conferences of the world participated - together with the heads of the Roman Curia - the papal document establishes the art. 1 that are sexual abuses a) crimes against the sixth commandment of the Decalogue consisting of: i. in forcing someone, with violence or threat or through abuse of authority, to perform or suffer sexual acts; ii. in performing sexual acts with a child or a vulnerable person; iii. In the production, exhibition, detention or distribution, also via computer, of child pornography material, as well as in the recruitment or induction of a child or a vulnerable person to participate in pornographic exhibitions . To these cases the "conduct" of bishops, priests and religious "consisting of actions or omissions aimed at interfering or eluding civil investigations or canonical, administrative or criminal investigations, against a cleric or a religious in this regard are equalized to the crimes referred to in letter a) of this paragraph . In this regard, in an interview published in Vatican News and in "LOsservatore Romano", Card. Marc Ouellet, P.S.S., prefect of the Congregation for Bishops, explains that the provisions also concern "cases of abuse of religious by clerics, or abuse of seminarians or novices by their superiors". The Cardinal then defines "no less important, it is having codified the procedure that calls bishops and religious superiors to account for their actions, not only in the case of abuses committed by them but also in the case of their omissions aimed at interfering or evade civil investigations or canonical, administrative or criminal investigations against a cleric or a religious who has abused. Finally, the norms provide for a closer collaboration between the Dicasteries: it is a sign of the need, on our part here in the Curia, not only to better serve the dioceses and religious institutes of the world, but to collaborate better with each other". The Motu Proprio establishes under art. 2 that if clerics and religious have the obligation to report if they have "news or reasonable grounds to believe that one of the crimes has been committed" of abuse, "anyone can submit a report" to "one or more systems that are stable and easily accessible to the public to be created within a year. Making a report pursuant to article 3 shall not constitute a violation of office confidentiality and "an obligation to keep silent may not be imposed on any person with regard to the contents of his or her report". The report must be sent to the bishop and if it concerns cardinals, patriarchs, bishops and pontifical legates both to the Holy See and to the Metropolitan of the Ecclesiastical Province in which the person indicated is domiciled (Article 6). Article. 5 then provides for the commitment of the ecclesiastical authorities " that those who state that they have been harmed, together with their families, are to be treated with dignity and respect, and, in particular, are to be: a) welcomed, listened to and supported, including through provision of specific services; b) offered spiritual assistance; c) offered medical assistance, including therapeutic and psychological assistance, as required by the specific case. The good name and the privacy of the persons involved, as well as the confidentiality of their personal data, shall be protected ". As for the investigation, art. 12 establishes that the Metropolitan, "once he has been appointed by the competent Dicastery and in compliance with the instructions received, either personally or through one or more suitable persons: a) collects relevant information regarding the facts; b) accesses the information and documents necessary for the purpose of the investigation kept in the archives of ecclesiastical offices; c) obtains the cooperation of other Ordinaries or Hierarchs whenever necessary; d) requests information from individuals and institutions, including civil institutions, that are able to provide useful elements for the investigation. If then "it becomes necessary to hear a child or a vulnerable person, the Metropolitan adopts appropriate methods, which take their status into account". The same article states that "the person under investigation enjoys the presumption of innocence." In carrying out the investigation the metropolitan may use "qualified persons". The results of the investigation are finally transmitted by the metropolitan to the competent Dicastery "together with his own votum on the results of the survey". The Motu Proprio finally establishes the art. 10 that "These rules apply without prejudice to the rights and obligations established in each place by state laws, particularly those concerning any reporting obligations to the competent civil authorities". (FP) US President Donald Trump Wednesday imposed tougher-than-ever sanctions on Iran's iron, steel, aluminum and copper sectors, a move aimed at stopping Tehran from acquiring a nuclear weapon and intercontinental ballistic missiles and to counter its "malign influence" in the Middle East. A year after he withdrew from the "fatally flawed", "one-sided" Iran nuclear deal and began the process of reimposing sanctions on Tehran, Trump with his new move has now imposed sanctions on Iran's top three exports oil, petrochemicals and metals. The Trump administration is imposing tougher sanctions on Iran than ever before because the regime continues to engage in destructive and destabilising activities, the White House said moments after Trump notified the US Congress about his latest sanctions on Iran. "The (Iranian) regime has maintained its nuclear ambitions and continues to develop its ballistic missile capabilities and support terrorism," the White House said. "The United States will aggressively enforce its sanctions, and those who continue to engage in sanctionable activity involving Iran will face severe consequences," it said. An executive order signed by Iran takes steps to deny Iran revenue, including revenue derived from the export of products from Iran's iron, steel, aluminum, and copper sectors that may be used to provide funding and support for the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, terrorist groups and networks, campaigns of regional aggression, and military expansion, Trump said. "It remains the policy of the United States to deny Iran all paths to both a nuclear weapon and intercontinental ballistic missiles, and to counter the totality of Iran's malign influence in the Middle East," Trump said in his executive order. "It is also the policy of the United States to deny the Iranian government revenue, including revenue derived from the export of products from Iran's iron, steel, aluminum, and copper sectors, that may be used to provide funding and support for the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, terrorist groups and networks, campaigns of regional aggression, and military expansion," it said. Noting that the Iran deal was a disastrous "one-sided" deal that failed to end Iran's nuclear programme and the full range of the regime's malign activity, the White House said Trump withdrew from the deal because it failed to protect American national security interests and enabled Tehran's malign behaviour. "The Iran deal left Iran with future pathways to pursue nuclear weapons. The regime was allowed to preserve its nuclear infrastructure, keep enriching uranium, and continue research and development. The deal included incomplete mechanisms for inspections and verification," it said. The extensive nuclear archive exposed by Israel proves Tehran pursued nuclear weapons and secretly preserved its blueprints and database to do so, the White House said. The deal failed to address Iran's wide range of malign activities, including its global terrorist campaign, unjust detention of Americans, ballistic missile development and more, it alleged. The regime received an influx of cash because of sanctions relief that it has used to engage in and support terrorism and to destabilise the Middle East, it said. The White House asserted that President Trump's maximum pressure campaign is working, having already denied the regime direct access to more than $10 billion in oil revenue since May 2018. The Trump administration will continue to apply maximum pressure on the Iranian regime until its leaders change their destructive behaviour and return to the negotiating table, it said. The sanctions come after Trump last month refused to give waivers to countries like India from buying oil from Iran, in an attempt to reduce Iran's oil exports to zero. After coming to power, Trump withdrew from the Iranian nuclear deal last year and has imposed stringent sanctions against what he describes as the "authoritarian" Iranian regime. The US is seeking to ramp up pressure on Iran to counter what the White House perceives to be a potential threat. Last month, the US designated Iran's Revolutionary Guard a foreign terrorist organisation, the first time the designation has been applied to a government entity. Also read: US files criminal charges against Huawei for violating Iran sanctions and stealing trade secrets Also read: Avoiding the Iran sanctions quagmire - Why the US should not repeat sanctioning Iran Indian equity market is showing action on the downside in May, with the domestic equity indices falling for seventh straight sessions to a two-month low. Growing concerns over the trade talks between China and US coupled with Lok Sabha elections have led to nearly 1,500 points decline on the Bombay Stock Exchange in last 7 sessions. Continuing its losing streak, the BSE Sensex closed at 37,558.91, down by 230.22 points and NSE Nifty settled in the red by declining 57.65 points down to 11,301.80 today. On Wednesday, Sensex had slipped almost 500 points to 37,789 while Nifty shed 138 points to close at 11,359. 5 major factors that indicate downslide on Dalal Street are: 1. US-China trade war escalation Global markets are witnessing heavy sell offs after trade tensions between the US and China escalated, with Donald Trump threatening to hike import tariffs on Chinese goods worth $200 billion. Amid fears of the trade war between US-China, indices like FTSE, CAC and DAX slipped 1% each today. Indian market also declined nearly 1% today. US has sent out a notice in the Federal Register formally layingthe groundwork to raise tariffs on $200 billion of Chinese imports to 25% from 10% early Friday. China's top trade envoys, including Vice Premier Liu He, are in Washington to resume negotiations. Investors are expected to remain cautious and closely watch the trade talks between the two biggest economies, further escalation of which can also impact the Indian rupee. 2. Lok Sabha elections High market volatility suggests that traders are cautious ahead of the Lok Sabha elections and are expected to remain volatile in the near term. This would be a good time for investors to accumulate stocks at lower levels, and keep ready with their shopping cart, waiting to take positions for different poll outcomes. 3. Q4 results impact Q4 results performance has affected the Indian equity markets as well. The trend in earnings revision remained in favour of downgrades. Where weakness in the refining and petrochemical margin persists, results for FMCG companies have been either below expectations or in line so far. Private banks continued reporting steady trends in loan growth, while the margin trajectory remains mixed. Corporate banks demonstrated a decent improvement in asset quality, while auto slowdown continues. Consumer staples commentaries have turned weaker on demand. On Q4FY19 interim earnings review, Motilal Oswal added, "Of the 19 Nifty companies that have announced their earnings, 15 have either met or exceeded our estimates on both the PAT and EBITDA front. The earnings upgrade/downgrade ratio is 4. Oil prices The Trump administration surprised Iran's oil customers, including India, China and Turkey, last week by saying no waivers on the sanctions would be granted after May 1, ending six months of exceptions to the sanctions for reductions in purchases. US sanctions on import of oil from Iran kicked in on 2 May. President Donald Trump's efforts to sink Iran's oil exports to zero will have a direct impact on India, as it imports a bulk of the oil it consumes and a significant portion of this earlier came from Iran. Now trading at $73 a barrel, oil prices shot up to six-month high of above $75 a barrel following the news, impacting Indian markets as well as the currency. 5. Volatility Index The National Stock Exchange's (NSE's) India VIX index, which tracks investors' perceptions of volatility for at least a month ahead, has soared 59% in the year so far. The volatility index has been up as much as 14.80 per cent in the past one week, suggesting volatile swings could continue in the market ahead of election polls and its outcome. India VIX is a volatility index based on the Nifty Index Options prices. The volatility index typically has an inverse correlation with the markets. The index at elevated levels indicates investors expect a major correction at least over the next month. Also Read: Yes Bank snaps two-day losing streak, share jumps 6% despite downgrade by India Ratings Also Read: Reliance Industries' market cap takes a hit of $13.76 bn in 4 days as shares fall Archery is popular in parts of tribal India. It is a precision sport - how close to the target can one shoot? What if this target is moving all the time? Even former World #1 Deepika Kumari would struggle. There is a similar issue in the delivery of health services. Several Indians, even pregnant women, move frequently making it difficult to ensure delivery of end-to-end care during the 1000-day period from pregnancy till the child turns two. So, how many Indians migrate? Census 2011 pegged total migrants at 450 million (hypothetically, to understand the scale, if they constituted a separate country, it would be the third most populous country in the world after China and India), of whom 13% (~60 million) are inter-state migrants. The Economic Survey 2016-17 estimated annual work-related inter-state migration at close to 9 million people (higher than Census 2011 figure of 3.5 million) Migration is rising and will likely rise further. Annual labour migrant growth rate increased from 2.4% (1991-2001) to 4.5% (2001-2011) with out-migrants in the 20-29 age group doubling in the latter decade. As per Census 2011, 69% of migrants are women. As one would expect, the Economic Survey shows that net in-migration is higher in urban centres such as Delhi, Maharashtra, Goa and Tamil Nadu while states with traditionally poor health outcomes including Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand and Madhya Pradesh have the highest net out-migration. Also Read: Number of hospital beds in Delhi increased from 48,096 in 2014-15 to 57,194 in last fiscal: Economic Survey Recently, while travelling in a district with poor health outcomes and a large tribal population, I noticed a curious phenomenon. Several couples migrated to urban centres immediately after marriage. However, most of them would return to their home village within a year, with the woman pregnant and close to her delivery date. As a result, when she gets registered for ante-natal care, her pregnancy is in her last stages. A 2013 study by AIIMS researchers Kusuma, Kumari and Kaushal looked at migrant maternal health-seeking behaviour with respect to ante-natal care and institutional delivery, in Delhi. The results are striking - only 49% of recent migrants received the desired 4 ante-natal checks. Record of home-based post-natal care for recent migrants was also much lower than settled residents It may be inferred that migrant women may have inadequate access to care both due to lack of knowledge and relatively unwelcoming service. Various studies, Indian and international, show that migrants have poorer maternal health indicators than natives. In India, it is typical for pregnant women to return to their parental homes at the time of delivery. It had its genesis in the idea that women could pay due attention to their health needs and get relief from domestic and work-related burden. It is now an ingrained custom followed in many parts of the country. Often, therefore, women register their pregnancy and get early ANC checks elsewhere before returning home for final checks, delivery and postnatal care. Due to the lack of continuity of service providers, care is compromised. Moreover, some states - notably Madhya Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Telangana and Odisha - offer conditional cash payments on fulfilment of certain conditions - stipulated ANC checks, institutional delivery, birth registration, early breastfeeding and immunisation. Such schemes also encourage women to return home to deliver. That said, the Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY), a similar scheme offered by the Central Government, allows women to avail cash benefit irrespective of location within India. Migration is a reality. What can be done to ensure that women receive appropriate care, irrespective of migration? First, there is a need for improved and targeted supply of healthcare services to migrants. Government and civil society, particularly in urban centres which are the hubs of in-migration, must work together to address the specific needs of the migrant population. Health workers must be encouraged to reach out to migrant population to ensure that they are not left behind. At the same time, it is important to ensure that frontline workers, both serving beneficiaries at in-migration locations and those serving beneficiaries on their return to home stations are incentivized for providing health services - this should be regardless of the origin/domicile of the beneficiary. A frontline worker serving an out-migrant, or an in-migrant woman should at the least be entitled to her incentive pro-rata for the ante-natal or post-natal services rendered. Also Read: Govt says there's proposal to pay employers for extended maternity benefit from budget Solutions such as a unique ID (probably Aadhaar) and electronic health records can help increase accessibility and portability of benefits. They can also enable citizens to avail benefits of state-specific schemes irrespective of geographical location. Further, empanelling more accredited private facilities can help migrant workers access care more easily without worrying about losing benefits. There is also a pressing need to drive awareness regarding the need for continued care during pregnancy, safe delivery and appropriate post-natal care. People need to know that they can access maternal health services wherever they are, and the need to carefully maintain the Mother-Child Protection (MCP) card containing records of care received. The public must also be made aware of the various benefits they are eligible for in order to ensure safe pregnancy and childbirth. To build awareness and educate citizens on maternal health and related entitlements, the role of frontline health workers is key. Migration brings along with it, numerous struggles. Migrants lose various social entitlements, including PDS, due to registration at home location. Maternal and newborn care is too important to be optional. Areas with in-migration must reach out to migrant communities to achieve greater access and improved care. Simultaneously, citizens should be educated about the need for quality, consistent maternal care and the associated rights and entitlements. (The writer is the CEO, Antara Foundation. He has worked in management consulting with Arthur D Little and KPMG) The British pound was little changed around $1.30 on Thursday amid doubts that Brexit negotiations between the ruling Conservative and opposition Labour parties would get anywhere. British media reported on Wednesday the talks were close to collapse, causing sterling to fall. Mounting pressure on Prime Minister Theresa May to name a departure date is also weighing on the pound. On Thursday, the pound was up 0.1 percent, at $1.3014 , still near its weakest in a week. It was unchanged against the euro at 86.030 pence. "Since most of her (May's) likely replacements are even more hard-core `Leave' supporters than she is, this raises the possibility of a hard Brexit, i.e. crashing out with no agreement at all," said Marshall Gittler, an analyst at ACLS Global. The government conceded on Tuesday that Britain would take part in European Parliament elections this month, a poll that could deliver more setbacks to both major parties. Sterling has traded in a $1.28-$1.32 range since Britain pushed its scheduled departure from the European Union back from March until Oct. 31. It's still not clear when, how or even if Brexit will happen. Volatility in currency markets is low, and in recent weeks investors have curtailed their bets on big swings in the pound. (Reuters) Source: www.businessworld.ie JD.com Shutters Australia Office Just a Year After Opening By Yang Ge / May 09, 2019 01:17 PM / Business & Tech It seems that things just werent happening down under for e-commerce giant JD.com. Just over a year after opening an office in Melbourne, Chinas second largest online seller has quietly shuttered the outfit, the company confirmed to the Australian Financial Review. That same office had opened with fanfare back in February last year, including backing from the local government. The office wasnt peddling Chinese goods to Australians, but rather helping local Australian merchants to sell their goods to Chinese consumers hungry for imports. A JD spokesperson tried to put a positive face on the withdrawal, saying the Australia office is being integrated into the companys China-based operations and Australias importance doesnt change. The fact of the matter is that JD.com has come under growing pressure to show investors it can be profitable, following years of losses since its 2014 New York listing. The company has said its delivery unit is losing major money, and that part of the business could go bust in two years if things dont turn around soon. It also doesnt help that founder Richard Liu is being sued by a U.S. university student who is accusing him of rape, which JD denies. by Melani Manel Perera The Methodist bishop of Colombo invites the country's political leaders to put aside ethnic and religious differences to help the population to restart after the Easter attacks. The re-opening of the schools is fundamental: "Without lessons, how can our children face the exams?" Colombo (AsiaNews) - After the last Easter terrorist attacks "the time has come for Sri Lankan political leaders to put aside any divergence and work together to rebuild the confidence of the population and restore the country to normality" stated the Methodist bishop of Colombo, Rev. Asiri Perera, during a press conference held two days ago. According to the bishop, "politicians, at every level, must forget the ethnic and religious differences that have poisoned the climate in recent years. You must understand the true reality of the present, because citizens live in pain, fear and anger . The proclamations and opinions expressed in recent days "must end, we have enough. Now we need something more, something that is really incisive. We must meet those who are anxiously waiting to overcome the problems caused by those explosions that have taken away so many lives". In particular, Asiri Perera emphasizes the problem of schools: "At the end of the month our children have to sign their application for the examination which will be held in December, but the schools are closed due to security problems. How can they have an adequate preparation? For a parent, children are the greatest good: their importance cannot be given a value. I therefore call on all those responsible to sit around a table with the families and discuss how the situation can be restarted ". After the Easter tragedy, adds the Methodist bishop, "the great responsibility shown by the religious leaders of Sri Lanka must be underlined. In a particular way I would like to thank the Catholic archbishop of Colombo, card. Ranjith, for the way he behaved in the light of the attacks. Especially for his invitation to maintain peace in the nation. Buddhist monks and other Christian denominations should also be praised: we must be united, as one family, and move forward . In conclusion, Perera invites Christians to hold their religious rites in churches "starting next Sunday". The reference is to the closing of Christian places of worship, decided for the safety of the faithful: "We witness our Christian faith also by returning to our churches". Yellowknife, Northwest Territories May 9, 2019 Media representatives are advised that the Member of Parliament for Northwest Territories, Michael McLeod, on behalf of the Minister of Environment and Climate Change, Catherine McKenna, along with the Northwest Territories Minister of Infrastructure and Industry, Tourism and Investment, Wally Schumann, will announce support for climate action in Northwest Territories. Event: Announcement and Media Availability Date: Friday, May 10, 2019 Time: 2:00 p.m. (MDT) Location: Legislative Assembly, Great Hall 4570 48th Street Yellowknife, Northwest Territories Media are encouraged to express their interest and register for the event with Media Relations at Environment and Climate Change Canada. Minister of Health to announce support for several initiatives in Atlantic Canada Media advisory Minister of Health to announce support for several initiatives in Atlantic Canada. Thursday May 9, 2019 Friday May 10 The Honourable Ginette Petitpas Taylor, Federal Minister of Health, will attend the New Brunswick Hospice and Palliative Care Conference to announce funding for palliative care. She will also visit West Highlands Elementary School in Amherst to make a funding announcement to support well-being for students in Nova Scotia. The itinerary of events includes: Moncton, New Brunswick 8:00 a.m. (ADT): Minister Petitpas Taylor will attend the New Brunswick Hospice and Palliative Care Associations Conference and will announce support to help strengthen palliative care for Canadians. The Minister will be available to media following her remarks. Delta Beausejour Moncton 750 Main Street Moncton, New Brunswick E1C 1E6 Amherst, Nova Scotia 10:45 a.m. (ADT): Minister Petitpas Taylor will make an announcement on physical activity, healthy eating and the well-being of students in Nova Scotia. The Minister will be available to media following the announcement. West Highlands Elementary School 18 Maltby Court Amherst, Nova Scotia B4H 2L6 Media Inquiries: Thierry Belair Office of Ginette Petitpas Taylor Minister of Health 613-957-0200 Media Relations: Health Canada and the Public Health Agency of Canada 613-957-2983 hc.media.sc@canada.ca by Melani Manel Perera Amid security measures and reconstruction, people of different faiths are lining up to honor the saint. The memory of those killed in the massacre, and the hope that "they are in Gods embrace". Wrath towards the government: "They cannot guarantee security". Colombo (AsiaNews) - Since yesterday until tonight at 7 pm, the church of St Anthony, in Kochchikade, has been reopened to the public. The sacred building was the object of a terrorist attack on 21 April, on Easter Sunday, along with two other churches, one in Negombo and one in Batticaloa. The partial reopening, amid security controls and while restoration and reconstruction is underway, does not include celebrations or masses, but it is only to allow the faithful to express their devotion to Saint Anthony (of Padua), with traditional devotions especially on the first Tuesday of the month. Percy, Ranjith and Nevi, three young people who live nearby, say: "Our faith in God, our love for St. Anthony cannot be destroyed by any attack or kamikaze. In our lives we will always have to face moments like this ". The memory goes to all the victims of the massacres: "We still remember all those who were killed two weeks ago in the three churches, they came here because they have an immense love for God. They could have stayed at home, and instead they decided to come in church. Thinking about those victims makes us sad, but we feel that they are in God's embrace ". The Church of St. Anthony is a very famous sanctuary: here Catholics, Protestants, Buddhists, Hindus, Muslims come on pilgrimage from all over Sri Lanka. Gopi Kirubaharan, a Hindu Tamil, queued with his family to honor the saint. "It took half an hour to get to the statue of Saint Anthony and kiss it, thanking the saint for everything. We come to this shrine two or three times a week, but after the explosion at Easter we could not come. Today is the first day after two weeks. Those two weeks seemed like two years. " Stephen, a Colombo businessman, arrived at the shrine with his wife and daughter. After lighting some candles to Saint Anthony, he commented: "Death is the common destiny for us men, it is our destiny on earth. For us Catholics, then, this means entering into eternal life. Although coming here reminds us of all our brothers and sisters who have been killed, we believe that they are in the arms of God. " Some of those present are full of anger towards the authorities. An old man, after asking the priest for a blessing, complains: "There is no development, nor the freedom we hoped for when we voted them into power. Look what happens now to the country: people live in fear; the government does not guarantee security; we are afraid to send our children to school; we Catholics are an easy target for Islamic radicals; there is no peace". 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. by Vladimir Rozanskij On 9 May, Russia marks the defeat of Nazism, one day after the rest of the world. On this day, people remember the sacrifice of so many soldiers, and above all the glory of the country, bulwark for the whole of humanity. Stalin is still more popular than Putin today. Out of 68 heads of state invited for the occasion, only 20 showed up. Moscow (AsiaNews) In Russia, today is Victory Day, the day when Nazism was defeated. For Russians, the anniversary, in addition to marking the end of the Second World War, is a day heavy with significance. Over the past 70 years, especially in the past decade, the event has undergone changes and re-evaluations. Once movingly commemorated to remember the sacrifices made to Mother Russia and humanity, with veterans at the centre of the attention (75,660 are still alive), the event is now centred on the triumph of Stalinist USSR, whose mantle of power reflects upon today's Russia. In his speech, Putin praised the "eternal value of the military triumph of our people. It was the people who defended and saved our Motherland, became the hope and a tower of strength for the humankind, the main liberator of European nations. [. . .] With every new year we come to a deeper realisation of the moral power of that unparalleled feat. He went on to say that the disposition of the heroes of that time is reflected today by the soldiers of contemporary Russia, whilst the idols of fascism and Nazism are raising in some countries. Russia has the necessary power to defend everyone, as shown by the powerful weapons paraded on Red Square. For most Russians, as polls indicate, the 1945 Victory is "the greatest event in world history". Patriarch Kirill, on the eve of the celebration, laid a wreath of flowers on the monument to the Unknown Soldier, on the walls of the Kremlin. In the past, the memory united Russians with their allies in the war against Hitler's folly, but today a breach has grown between them, as evinced by the absence of many guests of honour at the tribune on top of Lenin's mausoleum. Out of 68 invited heads of state, only 20 showed up, mostly the few supporters of Russias current isolationist course. Alongside Putin sat Chinese president Xi Jinping as well as Kazakhstans "eternal leader" Nursultan Nazarbayev. The 9 May parade has now become a propaganda tool to promote Russias new greatness, with special emphasis on the importance of the state in the history of war and victory. In its extreme form, this translates into the increasingly popular slogan that "Stalin won the war". Thus, in the name of a higher patriotic ideal, the memorial slate of the bloody Georgian dictator is wiped clean. In the 1960s, Khrushchevs condemnation of Stalin's crimes at the 20th Congress of the Communist Party of the Soviet Union in 1957 had led ordinary Soviet citizens to view the Victory as the replacement of one totalitarian regime by another, as masterfully expressed in Aleksandr Solzhenitsyns 1968 novel In the First Circle. Among Soviets of that time, Stalinism had no right to the glory of Victory, and the May festival was limited to the regime flexing its muscles, based on Cold War blinkers. What remained closely associated with 1945 was the memory of the victims and the sacrifices of the soldiers, best exemplified by the moving quietness of the commemorations and the rancour for a regime that had won by sending to the slaughter ten times the number of soldiers as the vanquished did. Since the mid-2000s in particular since the conflict with Ukraine in 2014 humane feelings of compassion have been increasingly replaced by revenge, so that the old victory becomes the starting point to envisage new perspectives of greatness. This is helped by the fact that the celebration is held on a different day than the rest of the world, the latter being 8 May, the day when the Soviets remembered their entry into Berlin. Russia thus celebrates "its" victory, one that is different from that of the other victors (for Ukraines outgoing president, Petro Poroshenko, the Kremlin has privatised the victory). At the same time, ordinary Russians are re-evaluating the figure of Stalin, beloved in todays Russia even more than Putin himself. The net effect is that what is celebrated today is Russias moral greatness rather than the victory of freedom and democracy over Nazi totalitarianism, a greatness the world needs in lieu of Europes exhausted and powerless democracy. This, at least, is the sense of the triumphal song that five great military choirs performed, at the close of todays parade, an anthem to the homeland, the great country, which was echoed in St Petersburg by Mikhail Glinkas historic 19th century anthem, glorifying the Russian tsar, Russias first official anthem, which some would like to see reintroduced today. Photo: CTV News A pastor from a Metro Vancouver church has been identified as the victim who was killed in a fiery crash near the Peace Arch border crossing last Thursday. Tom Cheung, the lead pastor at Pacific Grace MB Church, came to Canada 20 years ago and leaves behind a wife and three children. A GoFundMe page has been started to help provide for the family and describes Cheung as a "loving husband of Athens, a caring devoted father of Solomon, Benjamin and Elisha; and a generous Pastor with lots of love and patience to many..." A release from the church indicates, "Tom was a kind, compassionate and humble individual who loved people and (was) always willing to help others," it said. "This tragedy brutally took away Tom from the family he dearly loved." Cheung was killed when a Porsche Cayenne SUV struck the Toyota Sienna minivan he was driving, from behind at the busy border crossing. Cheung died at the scene and witnesses report the Porsche was travelling at a high rate of speed when the collision happened, sending the minivan flying 200 feet before it came to rest. CTV News reports that Surrey RCMP is investigating the crash, but they have not yet indicated why the Porsche was driving at such a high rate of speed. -with files from CTV News Photo: The Canadian Press The three students who disarmed a gunman in a Colorado school shooting leapt up from their desks without a word and with no thought for their own safety when they spotted the gun, recounted one of the young men. They slammed the teenager, a classmate of theirs, against the wall and struggled with him when shots rang out. Kendrick Castillo, who led the charge, slumped to the ground. His close friend, Brendan Bialy, wrestled the gun away and called out to Castillo. There was no response, Bialy told a roomful of reporters on Wednesday as he recalled what happened the previous day at STEM School Highlands Ranch. "Kendrick went out as a hero," Bialy said. "He was a foot away from the shooter and instead of running the opposite direction he ran toward it." Authorities said the actions of Castillo, Bialy and Joshua Jones minimized the bloodshed from Tuesday's attack at the school south of Denver that wounded eight students along with killing the 18-year-old Castillo. The injured includes Jones, who was shot twice, according to a statement released by his family. Castillo was remembered Wednesday night at a vigil that was hit by disruptions, with many students staging a walkout amid complaints the vigil had been politicized and failed to include their voices. Hundreds packed a high school gym for the event organized by the student arm of the Brady gun control group that included pro-gun control speeches by presidential hopeful Sen. Michael Bennet and U.S. Rep. Jason Crow, both Democrats. The attackers were identified by law enforcement officials as 18-year-old Devon Erickson and a 16-year-old who prosecutors identified as Maya McKinney but whose attorney said uses male pronouns and the name Alec. The two allegedly walked into the STEM School Highlands Ranch through an entrance without metal detectors and opened fire in two classrooms. Because the attack happened only miles from Columbine High School and just weeks after the shooting's 20th anniversary, questions quickly arose about whether it was inspired by the 1999 massacre. But investigators offered no immediate motive. A member of the school's robotics club and a relentless tinkerer, Castillo had an infectious smile and gentle sense of humour, according to friends. He worked part-time at a local manufacturing company that had offered him a job after an internship because he was such a standout employee. "To find he went down as a hero, I'm not surprised. That's exactly who Kendrick was," said Rachel Short, president of the company, Baccara. Cecilia Bedard, 19, had known Castillo since elementary school and said he was always friendly, modest and excited to help people. He made a point of always joining his father at Knights of Columbus fundraisers and bingo nights. "He was amazing," Bedard said. "He was honestly the sweetest kid I ever met. Never said a mean joke." The security guard who detained the second armed suspect was employed by Boss High Level Protection, a company started by a former SWAT team leader who responded to the Columbine shooting. The owner, Grant Whitus, told The Associated Press the security guard is a former Marine who ran to the area of the shootings and confronted one of the armed students in a hallway. The guard drew his weapon and apprehended the person, Whitus said. "He doesn't even realize how many lives he saved by stopping a school shooting," Whitus said. The Canadian Parliament has subpoenaed Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg and COO Sheryl Sandberg after a government report found last month that the social media giant flouted the countrys privacy law. In what reports call a rare move for Canadas lawmakers, the House of Commons Standing Committee on Access to Information, Privacy and Ethics unanimously voted to issue a subpoena to force Facebooks leaders to face Parliament. The move follows Zuckerberg repeatedly ignoring the Parliaments requests to appear before the Canadian committee looking into election interference and disinformation, as well as a committee made up of legislative investigators from 10 nations, who will meet in Canada by the end of the month. Nepali cement producers give mixed reactions to export plans ICR Newsroom By 09 May 2019 Cement producers in Nepal have given mixed reactions to the governments announcement to make cement on of the countrys main export products. While the cement manufacturers welcome the news, it remains to be seen whether exporting cement will be possible, depending on the implementation of the policy. The main challenge for the producers is the cost of production, according to New Business Age. Dhruva Thapa, president of the countrys cement producers association, says that exporting cement will not remain a pipe dream if the government facilitates them cost reduction. It is possible for Nepal to export cement but first of all the government must sort out some of the obstacles in exporting cement, he said. The departments of forest, mines and land reform are seeking immediate benefit from cement manufacturers by charging high tax. Instead of short-term profit, the government should facilitate in properly establishing cement industries, he added. Mr Thapa argues that the cement produced in Nepal will not be price-competitive in the international market due to multiple layers of taxation, charged by the local, provincial and federal governments as well as transportation and electricity charges. RMC Group Director, Rajesh Agrawal, who has invested NPR9bn (US$80.7m) in RMC and Palpa Cement, says that it is not possible to export cement in the current scenario. We import coal for manufacturing cement. For this, we have to pay for the transportation of raw materials and five per cent customs duty, he said, adding, The mines of limestone in Nepal are not easily accessible. On the other hand, cement producers in India do not have to bear any expense for limestone. In such situation, it is not possible to compete in the international market, he said. Published under In five separate lawsuits, the Tennessee Supreme Court held Wednesday that cities with their own school systems are not required to share with counties the tax proceeds the cities receive from the sale of liquor for on-premises consumption, called liquor-by-the-drink. Tennessee imposes a 15 percent tax on liquor-by-the-drink sales. Except in private clubs, sales of liquor-by-the-drink are only allowed in cities or counties that have approved it by referendum. Businesses such as bars that sell liquor-by-the-drink collect the tax from customers and forward it to Tennessees Commissioner of Revenue. Under Tennessee law, the Commissioner of Revenue keeps half the tax proceeds for general education purposes. The Commissioner then sends the other half back to the city or county in which the liquor-by-the-drink sales were made. The five lawsuits centered on what happens to tax proceeds sent back to a city with its own school system that has approved the sale of liquor-by-the-drink when the county in which the city is located has not approved such sales. For over 30 years, cities that have approved the sale of liquor-by-the-drink have kept their portion of the liquor-by-the-drink tax proceeds and used them for their own independent school systems. The cities have not shared the liquor-by-the-drink proceeds with the counties. In April and May 2014, five Tennessee countiesBlount County, Bradley County, Coffee County, Sullivan County, and Washington Countyfiled lawsuits against cities that had been receiving liquor-by-the-tax proceeds since 1980. None of the five counties had approved the sale of liquor-by-the-drink. All five lawsuits claimed that Tennessee statutes required the cities to share a portion of those tax proceeds with the county schools. The cities disputed the counties claims, arguing that the statutes allowed the cities to keep the tax proceeds for their own schools. In the five cases, the trial courts reached varied results, some holding in favor of the counties and others holding in favor of the cities. The cases were all appealed. In four of the appeals, a panel of judges on the Court of Appeals held in favor of the cities. In one case, however, a different panel of judges on the Court of Appeals held in favor of the county. To resolve the conflict in the Court of Appeals decisions, the Tennessee Supreme Court granted permission to appeal in all five cases. The Supreme Court held in favor of the cities in all five appeals. In its opinion, the Court noted that, for over 30 years, cities and counties across Tennessee had been handling liquor-by-the-drink tax proceeds in the same way: cities kept their portion of the tax proceeds for their own schools and did not share the proceeds with the counties. The Tennessee General Assembly was aware of this longstanding practice. During that 30-year period, the General Assembly amended the liquor tax laws several times, but it chose not to amend the laws on the cities responsibilities as to distributing the liquor tax proceeds. This indicated that the legislature agreed with how the cities and counties were applying the liquor tax statutes. Considering the specific language in the statute, the legislatures awareness of the cities 30-year practice of keeping the liquor tax proceeds for their own schools, and the legislatures failure to amend the statute during that thirty-year period, the Supreme Court held that the legislature did not intend to require the cities to share the tax proceeds with the counties. To read the unanimous opinions in Blount County Board of Education v. City of Maryville, Bradley County School System ex rel. Bradley County Board of Education v. City of Cleveland, Coffee County v. City of Tullahoma, Sullivan County v. City of Bristol, and Washington County School System ex rel. Washington County Board of Education v. City of Johnson City, all authored by Justice Holly Kirby, go to the opinions section of TNCourts.gov. The Public Education Foundation and WTCI-PBS, in partnership with the City of Chattanooga, Hamilton County Schools and the Remake Learning Network will host CHA Learning Days, May 11-18. Chattanoogas effort will be one of nine national expansion sites for the Remake Learning Days Across America initiative. CHA Learning Days features nearly 200 hands-on learning activities for students and families across Hamilton County. The goal is to provide opportunities for the community to participate in educational experiences through fun and engaging activities designed by a diverse group of stakeholders in the region.The local celebration highlights innovative learning opportunities across the community.The opportunities include a wide variety of activities designed for all ages. Notably, on May 11, WTCI-PBS will host a Summer Learning Celebration with games and activities for the whole family. May 15-16, STEM School Chattanooga will host the STEM Jubilee which will bring approximately 4,000 elementary students to their campus to engage in rich learning experiences ranging from robotics to tele-microscopy. Additionally, on May 18, Gig City Girls, a venture launched through PEFs Teacherpreneur Incubator last fall, will host a girls-only coding event led by three Hamilton County teachers who have developed coding clubs for girls at their schools.CHA Learning Days is led locally by Michael Stone, director of Innovating Learning for the Public Education Foundation, and Jennifer Crutchfield, director of Public Relations, Community Engagement and Education for WTCI-PBS. Were thrilled to join regions like Chicago and Pittsburgh to become among the first to host Remake Learning Days Across America, said Mr. Stone. The country is taking note of the positive momentum building in our community and we are excited to have the opportunity to showcase the collaborative efforts in Hamilton County. We encourage families to come out for at least one event in their neighborhood and experience this celebration of learning.The Chattanooga community has worked purposefully to build optimism and hope by creating opportunities to support every child toward success in school. As the Tennessee Valleys PBS station and a part of Americas largest classroom, our team is proud to help host this initiative in our region. said Paul Grove, president and CEO for WTCI-PBS. We hope that these exciting community events will help introduce families to the wealth of opportunities in our city to learn and grow together and we are grateful for the support locally of First Tennessee Bank and Thompson Engineering in this initiative.In 2016, the Remake Learning network launched Remake Learning Days in Southwestern Pennsylvania and West Virginia in response to the need to provide opportunities for parents to connect with the new, innovative learning happening in kids classrooms. In addition, the network wanted to bring these opportunities to a broader range of audiences.Remake Learning Days Across America has a bold premise: give more students and their families access to engaging, relevant and equitable learning experiences, said Gregg Behr, executive director of The Grable Foundation, one of the co-chairs of Remake Learning and a funding partner. Make this the norm, not the exception, and create a genuine movement of educators, parents, and students that desire more real-world learning experiences that prepare youth from all backgrounds and all neighborhoods for our rapidly changing world. All CHA Remake Learning Days events can be found at the Remake Learning Days website . While many have unlimited capacity, some have registration limits, so parents, students and caregivers are encouraged to sign up now. The national Remake Learning Days Across America effort is supported by the Carnegie Corporation of New York, The Grable Foundation and Schmidt Futures. Remake Learning, PBS Kids and Digital Promise are national co-hosts in the effort.This support across the country is in response to demand from other regions hoping to deepen work in parent and family engagement across many institutions, based on a model which began in Pittsburgh, said Sunanna Chand, executive director of Remake Learning. With so many organizations, parents, and communities participating, we hope to ignite a national conversation around the future of learning and increase the demand for engaging and equitable hands-on experiences across all the spaces kids learn.CHA Remake Learning Days - Notable EventsMay 11 - Summer Learning Celebration at WTCI WTCI-TV will host a kickoff event inviting children and their families to enjoy science experiments, iPad/tablet games, storytelling, meeting PBS KIDS mascots, and more. There will be a scavenger hunt and science-themed obstacle course, and families can learn about summer camps, programs, and other enrichment activities.May 11 - Wayne-O-Rama & John Ross: Interactive History Blended Lesson This lesson integrates media and technology literacy to discuss westward migration and the Trail of Tears to develop an understanding of the role of the Cherokee in American history. Children will use a timeline and map exercise to better understand the regions timeline and history, as well as the impact of the Trail of Tears and establishment of the city of Chattanooga.May 17 - STEM School Chattanooga Jubilee TourThe largest school-based STEM event in the history of Tennessee, the event will include more than 95 lessons and activities over two days at Chattanooga State Community College. Adults can register for a tour to see student experiences, including robotics, drones, air cannons, bubbles and microscopes.May 18 - Chattanooga Zine Fest The Chattanooga Public Library will host this festival of independently produced books and magazines. Events will include a youth zine making area with a variety of materials and resources for attendees to create their own zine. The teen department will also have a booth for participants to sell and promote their creations.May 18 - Gig City Girls Coding Teacherpreneurs in Hamilton County Schools will host a girls only K-12 coding event at The Edney Innovation Center. The goal is to create opportunities for girls to develop and hone their problem solving skills and boost their self confidence Ruston Kelly will perform at Songbirdsd on the South Stage Wednesday, Sept. 18, at 9 p.m. Tickets are $15-$18 and will be available here. Review for Ruston Kelly: Ruston Kellys highly anticipated full-length debut, Dying Star, will be released Sept. 7 on Rounder Records and is now available for pre-order. In advance of the release, the albums lead track, Jericho, is premiering Thursday. Dying Star was co-produced by Kelly and Jarrad K (Kate Nash, Weezer) and recorded at Sonic Ranch in El Paso, Texas. It includes 14 songs written/co-written by Kelly and features Kelly (lead vocals, acoustic guitar, xylophone, harmonica), Jarrad K (12-string guitar, background vocals, electric guitar, Rhodes), Tim Kelly (pedal steel), Ian Fitchuk (piano, organ, drums, percussion), Eli Beaird (bass) and Kyle Ryan (banjo) as well as background vocals from Jon Green, Natalie Hemby, Kacey Musgraves, Kate York, Abby Sevigny and Joy Williams. The release of Dying Star follows a breakout year for the Nashville-based artist, whose debut EP, Halloween, was released last April to widespread acclaim. Born in South Carolina, Kelly started playing guitar under the guidance of his dad, Tim TK Kelly, a pedal steel guitarist who now performs in his band. Since his father worked for a paper mill and often changed job locations, Kelly grew up frequently moving. "A lot of my music is focused on suffering, or trying to understand the human condition through the lens of suffering...which probably sounds totally depressing, but its actually the flipside of that. Sometimes youve gotta go into that darknessyou need to get lost and then figure out for yourself how to find your way back. Thats the only way we can find pure joy, and really be thankful for the life weve been given. It is no question that Kim Kardashian and Kanye West absolutely adore their kids. The celebrity couple has talked about how much their three young children mean to them and they will soon have a fourth baby to shower with love. Kim Kardashian and Kanye West arrive for the 2019 Met Gala | Photo by ANGELA WEISS/AFP/Getty Images) Though they have shared their desire to have a big family, will Kim and Kanye continue growing their family in the future? Kim is drawing the line at four kids Though she loves having babies around and being a mom, Kim Kardashian is done having kids after her fourth child is born. The reality star, who is the mother of North, 5, Saint, 3, and Chicago, 1, will soon be welcoming her fourth child via surrogate sometime this month. Between spending time with her kids, being a supportive wife, filming episodes for Keeping Up With The Kardashians, and studying to become a lawyer, Kardashian has too much on her plate to have more children. During an interview with Elle in 2018, Kim Kardashian revealed that four children is the max for her. I dont think I could handle more than that. My time is spread really thin, she admitted. And I think its important that in all couples, the mom gives the husband as much attention as the kids. Shes been under a lot of stress lately With the birth of her fourth child approaching, Kim Kardashian West has admitted to being under a ton of stress these past few weeks. Along with the babys arrival, Kardashian has also been focusing a lot of energy on studying for the bar exam, which is just as stressful. The makeup mogul even had a meditation-themed baby shower in order for her and her guests to relax before the babys arrival. This year, because I am freaking out so much, I just want a zen-like CBD-themed baby shower, the beauty mogul told E! News. I just want massages, I want to do like a tea ceremony with crystals and were going to have a drink at this baby shower were not pregnant. Even though she has calmed down over the last few weeks, many are certain the reality star is done having kids after baby no. 4 is born in order to avoid the stress that comes with welcoming a new baby. Though Kim absolutely loved having a surrogate, the process one has to go through is a lot. Its a really tricky thing, she shared. What sex do you put in? I just said, Which one is the healthiest? Pick the healthiest one, and that was a girl. Theyll soon have their big family After it was announced Kim Kardashian and Kanye West would soon welcome their fourth child via surrogate, sources confirmed that the couple has always considered having a big family. According to a source, Kim and Kanye always agreed on both wanting several kids and a big family. The couple love having their kids run around and be able to grow up and enjoy each other as siblings, the source said, adding that they would want the fourth child to be close in age with the others. https://www.instagram.com/p/BrQcEVmnwyI/ Since baby no. 4 will only be a year younger than their youngest daughter Chicago, Kim and Kanye will finally have the family theyve always wanted. Chrissy Teigen is adored all over the world. Apart from her prosperous modeling career, she is most known for writing her own cookbook and creating her own kitchenware line. But when this Lip Sync Battle co-host is not busy working, she is busy proudly standing up for what she believes in. Chrissy has never been shy about voicing her political beliefs, and here lately, she has been more vocal than ever. She has even encouraged her husband, John Legend, to get more vocal about his political beliefs as well. When the Democratic candidates were announced for the 2020 election, true to her fashion, she had a few different opinions about them. So, which candidates does Chrissy hate and which ones does she love? Here is what we know. What political party does Chrissy Teigen support? Chrissy Teigen | Dia Dipasupil/Getty Images for Hulu During the 2016 Presidential election, Chrissy was very vocal about her disdain for the now elected President Trump. She had seemed to disagree with almost everything that he had said. It was obvious very early on that Teigen had very liberal views. Since that time, both Chrissy and her husband, John have been referred to as the Democratic power couple. They have spoken against many Republican views and have donated to charities that are frowned upon by the right-wing population. Last October, John Legend sat down with CNBC correspondent, John Harwood, and talked about some of the charities that he and his wife support and why they are important to them. [Chrissy] cares a lot about, I would say, womens reproductive freedom. So, weve donated to Planned Parenthood, the father of two told Harwood. She cares a lot about immigrant issues because her mother is an immigrant from Thailand, and so, we donated to the ACLU when we saw what was happening with the family separation at the border. In 2015, after a shooting occurred at a Planned Parenthood facility in Colorado Springs, Chrissy took to Twitter to say that every time there is a violent episode like this at Planned Parenthood, she and John make a donation to the organization. Donald Trump has blocked her on Twitter After 9 years of hating Donald J Trump, telling him "lol no one likes you" was the straw pic.twitter.com/MhZ6bXT1Dp christine teigen (@chrissyteigen) July 25, 2017 Throughout Trumps presidency, Teigen has taken to Twitter to let the world know just how much she dislikes the president. Then on July 23, 2017, Trump tweeted Its very sad that Republicans, even some that were carried over the line on my back, do very little to protect their President. When Chrissy saw the tweet, she quickly responded with Lolllllll no one likes you. As soon as Trump saw her response, he blocked her from viewing any more of his Twitter feeds. Teigen was a little shocked by the reaction due to the fact that she had said much worse about the President before. In fact, that tweet may have been one of the nicer things that she had said to the Donald. Which Democratic presidential candidate does Chrissy Teigen hate? I absolutely love 4 of these people. Loathe 1. Still open to hearing more from the rest! Thats all I know for sure. https://t.co/e2aJeM1Oi9 christine teigen (@chrissyteigen) April 25, 2019 While Chrissy has no problem with letting the public know everyone that she does not like on the Republican side, she is not quite ready to reveal which Democratic candidates she doesnt care for. Last month, CNN had posted who the 20 Democratic candidates in the upcoming election. In response, Chrissy had said that she Absolutely love 4 of these people. Lothe 1. Still open to hearing from the rest. Thats all I know for sure. When someone asked her who the candidate she loathes so much, she had said that she didnt not have the energy to reveal their name at this time. Many people think that it may be Bernie Sander, given the fact that she had a chance to vote for him during the last presidential election but instead, chose to support Hillary. Also, after it was confirmed that Bernie had lost out to Hillary, she took to Twitter, yet again, to let every Bernie Sanders supporter know that if they voted for Trump instead of Hillary, then she though they were insane and that she hated them. Only time will tell for sure which candidatedoes not like. Until then, we can be sure to be entertained by her outspoken personality on Twitter when it comes to anything that is related to politics. Its time to sweep away the notion that Harry and Meghan would go with tradition after choosing an unusual name for Baby Sussex. Now named Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor, we have the unique moniker many thought theyd go for to declare their own independence from the royals. Even if theyll never escape their royal designation, Archie Harrisons name is also decidedly more British than Americans thought it would be. Rumors had percolated about the couple maybe creating a hybrid America-British name. Instead, they picked a first name that might raise a few eyebrows in America. Nevertheless, Archie and Harrison have become more popular British names in recent years. Take a look at what this might mean for how people view the future Mr. Mountbatten-Windsor. Did you know the name Archie has risen in popularity over in the U.K.? The Duke and Duchess of Sussex were photographed earlier today with their newborn son at Windsor Castle. The baby has been named Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor. pic.twitter.com/WtDH6oD3kn The Royal Family (@RoyalFamily) May 8, 2019 Not many would name their child Archie in America, or at least at one time. Today, Archie has dropped off considerably as a popular name here in the states. However, in Britain, its risen to No. 18 in popularity recently. If you need a reason behind the dichotomy, Americans may still associate the name with a fictional bigot. Any of you old enough to remember when the classic CBS sitcom All in the Family aired here from 1971-83 will remember the lead character Archie Bunker. While Archie was supposed to be satire, he controversially became a lovable bigot during the shows run. The characters racist flame was tamed somewhat as he grew older, yet many people probably thought of Archie Bunker when thinking of his first name. Then again, Archie also has a positive connotation from American pop culture. The Archie Comics have been popular for decades 'Riverdale' fans are pumped Meghan and Harry named their baby Archie https://t.co/49WpQ0sHCk Mashable (@mashable) May 8, 2019 Most Millennials will think of The CW series Riverdale when seeing the name Archie. The comic book series of Archie has been going since 1941, so its possible Harry and Meghan were thinking along those lines. Since the Archie character from the comic books and the TV series descended from Scotland, we can assume the royal couple was looking at this character as the true cross-inspiration between America and the U.K. After all, the fictional Archie has even been known to wear a kilt as a tribute to his Scottish grandparents. On the other end of things, Archie from Riverdale is also a typical teenager, something Harry and Meghan no doubt want their child to experience growing up in an intense media storm. Harrison is a perfectly distinguished name Archie is 1 of the most popular boy names in the UK now. Scottish meaning True, Bold & Brave (in the Christian faith, historically). It's adorable, & Baby Archie will be a ginger as was the comic book Archie. Great name! & middle name Harrison means Harry's son. Prince Archie! pic.twitter.com/RQYkoihd6K Thyra Danevirke (@TDanevirke) May 8, 2019 Sure, a lot of people will automatically equate the name Harrison with Harrison Ford. Lets also remember its a variation on Harrys own name. Even though we dont see enough Harrisons in America, the name has risen to No. 32 in the U.K. Also keep in mind Harry is currently No. 2 there, which is essentially the same name (no doubt due to Prince Harrys popularity). All told, choosing Harrison was a smart compromise and one maybe some would wish was the first name of Baby Sussex over Archie. As for Harrison, social media denizens note the cleverness of the name being a variation on Harrys son. How will the name resonate in the future? Archie Harrison | Dominic Lipinski WPA Pool/Getty Images Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor is a mouthful to say, but it may end up being the most written about royal name in recent memory. The chances are small hed ever become king. It may not matter since he may become one of the most popular (if also hounded) notables as he grows up as the first mixed-race royal. Well see what happens if he chooses to spend more time in America rather than Britain as he likely helps change royal protocol, assuming the queen doesnt live to 150 years old. He may also help the name Archie rise in popularity in American names again as the royals have been known to set trends. George Clooney, who shares a birthday with Meghan Markle and Prince Harrys newborn son, Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor, revealed his feelings about the babys name to Ellen DeGeneres. On an episode of her talk show, The Ellen DeGeneres Show, DeGeneres and Clooney spoke about the royal babys birth. Clooney on royal baby: Hes stealing my thunder DeGeneres told Clooney that he shares his birthday, May 6, with Prince Harry and Meghan Markles newborn. Yeah, I noticed that. Thats stealing my game, stealing my thunder, the 58-year-old actor told DeGeneres. Actor George Clooney attends the FYC screening of Hulus Catch-22 at the Saban Media Center on May 08, 2019, in North Hollywood, California. | Paul Archuleta/FilmMagic The actor and his wife, Amal Clooney, a human rights lawyer, are friends with the Duke and Duchess of Sussex and attended their wedding last year. Clooney and Amal have twins together, a boy and a girl, who are two years old. Its a good name, Clooney said. And its better than Jughead, too Well, if they have a sibling, now youve ruined it, DeGeneres jokingly replied. Clooney has defended Markle in the past This isnt the first time Clooney has spoken about Prince Harry and Markle. While he spoke about the couples newborn in a light, casual tone, he has made serious comments about the couple. In Feb. 2019, Clooney defended Markle against harsh criticism she received from the media. I do want to say, I just saw this pieceTheyre just chasing Meghan Markle everywhere, he said, according to Who. Shes been pursued and vilified. Shes a woman who is seven months pregnant and she is being pursued and vilified and chased in the same way that [Princess] Diana was, and its history repeating itselfand weve seen how that ends. Amal Clooney and George Clooney arrive at St Georges Chapel at Windsor Castle before the wedding of Prince Harry to Meghan Markle on May 19, 2018, in Windsor, England. | Gareth Fuller WPA Pool/Getty Images In March 2019, he stood up for Markle again. I think its a little unfair, Clooney said on Good Morning Britain. Ive seen it when the press can turn on you for sort of ridiculous reasons and for almost nothing and it seemed to be a little unjust since she hadnt done anything except just happen to live her life. How Clooney spent his birthday Promoting his new Hulu series, Catch-22, Clooney sat down with Jimmy Kimmel on an episode of his show, Jimmy Kimmel Live!, where he talked about how he spent his birthday. My wife and I had dinner the two of us at home alone, which was really nice, Clooney said. Instead of a gift the actor joked that he got nothing one of Amal Clooneys high-profile cases came to a close. Clooney explained the situation to Kimmel. My wife has been, for the last year, working literally every single day, with a gentleman named Stephen Adler who runs Reuters, and a brilliant lawyer named Gail Gove, to get and to free the journalists, the Reuters journalists, from Myanmar. And a year of working on it and last night they walked out of prison, he said. George Clooney on Jimmy Kimmel Live! | YouTube On my birthday we had a cake, Kimmel replied laughing. Besides his wifes case coming to a close, Clooney said his daughter didnt feel well. She woke up twice in the middle of the night on her dads birthday and ended up sleeping in bed with her parents. You have to do it because shes crying and shes unhappy, Clooney explained to Kimmel. And then she takes over the bed, he added. After trying to sleep on the edge of the crowded bed, Clooney decided to sleep elsewhere. And then I went and I slept in her nursery, he said, making the Kimmel laugh. Weve been watching the Duggar family for years, and if theres anything we know about them, theyre a relatively predictable bunch. Jim Bob and Michelle catapulted their 19 kids to fame by sharing the ins and outs of their dress code, bizarre dating rules, and ultra-religious ways and today, the kids are all growing up fast. Now, many of the Duggar children are following right in their parents footsteps, though there are a few who seem to be taking the road less traveled. Jinger Duggar has long been thought of as the rebel of the family. She no longer lives in Arkansas and now resides in Laredo, Texas, but she and husband Jeremy Vuolo also recently announced theyre planning a move to Los Angeles. Are Jim Bob and Michelle supportive of their daughter? Jinger may have just proved they are. Jinger Duggar recently announced shes moving to Los Angeles this summer If theres any Duggar who we can expect a big move from, its Jinger Duggar. In late March, she and Jeremy Vuolo posted on their family blog the big news. In recent days, God has made it overwhelmingly clear to us that he is leading us out of Laredo, the excited couple wrote. Through much prayer and counsel, the next step for our family is to relocate to Los Angeles to attend Grace Community Church as Jeremy pursues graduate studies at The Masters Seminary. While Jinger and Jeremy are gracious for the new experience, they did note that theyre going to miss their friends in Laredo, as our friends here have become like family. Oddly enough, they didnt mention the other Duggars on the blog post as people theyre going to miss, however. This clued some fans in that perhaps there was some bad blood between Jinger and her siblings and parents. Some fans thought there were signs of a family rift It wasnt just Jinger and Jeremys lack of a callout on their blog post that had fans wondering what the Duggars really thought of the couple moving to Los Angeles. Reddit users mentioned that they think Jingers sisters are jealous of her move and some even noticed that they didnt make any comments on Jingers Instagram announcement that she was heading West. Now that I think of it, it is indeed odd that no one apart from Anna commented. Its telling because they make sure to atleast like and comment normally, one Reddit user commented. Others believe there were signs of a rift even before Jinger and Jeremy made their announcement. There have been long-standing rumors that Jim Bob doesnt actually like Jeremy, and we remember the drama of Jinger and Jeremys engagement. The two exchanged a full-frontal hug when Jeremy proposed, which certainly displeased Jim Bob. Did Jinger just shut down the rumors? Jinger Duggar isnt the most outspoken in the family, but she may have just silenced everyone who thought there was a rift between her and her parents. She posted a photo of her side-by-side with mom Michelle to her Instagram. It has been so wonderful having my beautiful mother in town! She is one amazing woman and my hero. I am so blessed to call her mom, she captioned the post. And fans are loving the photo as well. I love that while she maintains her personal standards she doesnt seem to make you feel false guilt for choosing slightly different standards, one fan wrote to Jinger regarding Michelle. Not only does this prove Jinger and Michelle are as close as ever, but it also shows Duggar fans that Michelle is willing to head to Texas to visit the Vuolo family. Does this mean well be seeing Michelle out in Los Angeles to visit her daughter and son-in-law, too? Were not sure but we imagine itd make a great Counting On episode. Check out The Cheat Sheet on Facebook! Lady Gaga is an American hero. She slayed the Met Gala, she won an Oscar for A Star is Born, and with her hard work and dedication, this artist proves that your past does not define your future. Her journey through Catholic school and college was no exception. Lady Gaga | James Devaney/GC Images She was always a gifted child A born and raised Italian-American New Yorker (and shell tell you about it time and time again), Stefani Germanotta, also known as Lady Gaga, began performing at clubs in New York City at age 14. She attended the Johns Hopkins University Center for Talented Youth, which has a list of impressive alumni, including Facebooks Mark Zuckerberg and Googles Sergey Brin. At age 11, she attended the Convent of the Sacred Heart, where she was often bullied for her appearance. As Lady Gaga got older, the bullying continued. She remembers some students creating a Facebook group called Stefani Germanotta, you will never be famous. She attended New York University (kind of) According to IMDB, New York Universitys Tisch School of the Arts admitted 17-year-old Lady Gaga. She attended the University for about a year before withdrawing to pursue music full time. She performed with a band across New York City, gaining recognition from producers and fans. In 2006, Lady Gaga signed to Def Jam Records. In 2009, videos surfaced on YouTube of college-age Lady Gaga performing at New York University. The video now has over 7 million views. Lady Gaga | P. Lehman / Barcroft Images / Barcroft Media via Getty Images She originally wanted to be an actress She got her first major acting role with FXs American Horror Story, portraying the Countess is American Horror Story: Hotel and later portraying the immortal witch of the woods, called Scathach in American Horror Story: Roanoke. Playing Ally in A Star is Born was Lady Gagas first acting role in a feature film. She starred in this film alongside director and actor Bradley Cooper and, in 2019, she won her first academy award, Best Song of the Year, for co-writing Shallow. On her Oscar, the plaque says Lady Gaga instead of Stefani Germanotta. Do you get to choose what they put on there? asked Jimmy Kimmel in an interview with Lady Gaga on Jimmy Kimmel Live. No, you get one and it is what it is, Lady Gaga said. And Im just happy that theres a name on it at all. Lady Gaga | Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images for The Met Museum/Vogue Shes won over 45 awards Today, Lady Gaga is one of the most prominent and influential women in the music industry, primarily because of her dedication and versatility. She performed at the 2018 Superbowl, she released a country album, Joanne, and she continues to work with her nonprofit organization, the Born This Way Foundation, to support the kindness and wellness of young people. As far as her music goes, Lady Gaga earned 47 awards and over 100 nominations, including the American Music Awards Favorite Pop/Rock Female Artist and the BET Awards Video of the Year. Her A Star Is Born hit, Shallow made it to the No. 1 spot on Billboards Hot 100 list. And as of March 2019, shes working on her sixth album. Rumors Im pregnant? Yeah, Im pregnant with #LG6, Lady Gaga tweeted. In less than a year, Meghan Markle has gone from a royal bride to protective mom after she and Prince Harry welcomed their son, Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor, on May 6th. A couple of days after his birth, the couple showed off their newborn at St. Georges Hall in Windsor, and during the three-minute appearance, a body language expert says that Markle appeared to have slight inhibitions about sharing her son with the world. Prince Harry and Meghan Markle with newborn Archie | Photo credit should read DOMINIC LIPINSKI/AFP/Getty Images Meghans body language said a lot Body language expert Judi James says that Meghan Markle sent a lot of messages to fans through not only her poses but how she touched her husband and son. Meghans self-comfort touches suggested some slight inhibitions but -as she did during their engagement she was the one leading the interview while placing a protective arm around her two boys, said James, according to The Sun. Meghan stood by Harrys side during the brief appearance while offering maternal-looking support. Prince Harry isnt a normal royal dad James added that Harry appeared to be an adept cradler, and seemed to be very comfortable while holding his son. The youngest son of Prince Charles and late Princess Diana held baby Archie throughout the appearance, and he used a face softening look of love when he looked at the newborn. This is quite the departure from other royal males, says James. More often than not, they tend to hold their new babies like Ming vases. The Queen and The Duke of Edinburgh were introduced to the newborn son of The Duke & Duchess of Sussex at Windsor Castle. Ms Doria Ragland was also present. The Duke & Duchess of Sussex are delighted to announce that they have named their son Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor. pic.twitter.com/PaHVhPlUl5 The Royal Family (@RoyalFamily) May 8, 2019 When the couple turned to leave with their newborn, Markle put her hand on Harrys back, which James says was a signal that the new mom was rewarding her husband for his loving leadership. She says the gesture was more exaggerated than usual, and she included a rub with the hand and thumb, which shows that she feels protective of her husband and son. Not the same as Prince William and Kate Middleton The arrival of baby Archie was vastly different from Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis William and Kates three children. While the future King and Queen welcomed their children at the famous private Lindo Wing of St. Marys Hospital (just like Charles and Diana), Meghan Markle and Prince Harry did things their own way. Meghan had planned on a home birth at Frogmore Cottage, but the night before she delivered, Harry and their Scotland Yard security team rushed her to Londons Portland Hospital. She gave birth at the luxurious Regents Park unit which costs more than 15,000 for a basic delivery. "We're absolutely thrilled welcome to the Sleep Deprivation Society!" The Duke of Cambridge on his and The Duchess's delight at the birth of The Duke and Duchess of Sussex's son pic.twitter.com/3sTvDL14Cr Kensington Palace (@KensingtonRoyal) May 7, 2019 Instead of walking down the famous steps of the Lindo Wing at St. Marys in front of hundreds of photographers, Meghan and Harry opted for a more intimate setting at St. Georges Hall, with a photographer, a reporter, and three cameras two days after their son was born. Not long after the baby arrived, Harry did give an impromptu press conference to tell the world that he had become a dad, and he couldnt help but gush about the amazing experience while praising his wife. The new parents are glowing Meghan Markles delivery reportedly had zero complications, and she gave birth to Archie at 5:26 a.m. on May 6th, when he weighed in at seven pounds three ounces. The Duchess of Sussex was a week past her due date, and insiders say that Meghans trip to the hospital was so secretive, senior royal officials were kept out of the loop. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex were photographed earlier today with their newborn son at Windsor Castle. The baby has been named Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor. pic.twitter.com/WtDH6oD3kn The Royal Family (@RoyalFamily) May 8, 2019 While Meghan and Harry showed off their newborn, she wore a white sleeveless dress from British designer Grace Wales Bonner, and both parents glowed as Harry swaddled Archie in a white blanket. The baby was wearing a white beanie, so fans didnt get the chance to see how much hair the little guy has, or if he is a brunette or redhead. Baby Archie isnt like his parents Its magic. Its pretty amazing. I have the best two guys in the world, so Im really happy, Meghan Markle said about being a new mom. The 37-year-old Duchess added that Archie has the sweetest temperament and is really calm, to which Harry exclaimed, I dont know where he gets that from! The couple also announced Archies arrival on their Instagram page, and in the caption, they wrote that they were delighted to share their first public moment as a family. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex also posted three pictures of their new royal family. Prince William and Kate Middleton have a new nephew, Archie, and the future King and Queen are thrilled about the addition to the royal family. The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge spoke with the media at The Kings Cup regatta at the Cutty Sark in Greenwich after Prince Harry announced that Meghan Markle had given birth to a son, and William and Kate revealed that they would soon get to meet baby Archie. Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, with their newborn son Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor | Photo by Dominic Lipinski WPA Pool/Getty Images Prince William welcomed his brother to the club On May 6th, Prince Harry told the world that he was officially a dad, revealing that his wife had given birth to a healthy baby boy that morning at 5:26 a.m. Harry couldnt stop smiling as he told reporters his son had arrived, describing the birth as the most amazing experience of his life. A few hours later, Prince William spoke to the media, and according to Hello! Magazine, he had nothing but kinds words for his little brother. Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Sussex was safely delivered of a son at 0526hrs. The baby weighs 7lbs 3oz and The Duke of Sussex was present for the birth. Read the full announcement here: https://t.co/RCUFjQG8pe The Royal Family (@RoyalFamily) May 6, 2019 Obviously thrilled, absolutely thrilled, and obviously looking forward to seeing them in the next few days when things have quieted down. Im very pleased and glad to welcome my own brother into the sleep deprivation society that is parenting, said William. Kate Middleton loves babies in the spring With William and Kate being marriage and parenting pros, they definitely have some wisdom to share with Harry and Meghan. The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have been married since 2011, and they have three children Prince George, 5, Princess Charlotte, 4, and Prince Louis, 1. When asked if he had any advice, William laughed and said he had plenty, but he will wait until his brother and sister-in-law get the chance to settle down and enjoy their new baby. As for Kate, she says that she and William look forward to meeting baby Archie, and added that this is an exciting time for Harry and Meghan and she wishes them all the best. "We're absolutely thrilled welcome to the Sleep Deprivation Society!" The Duke of Cambridge on his and The Duchess's delight at the birth of The Duke and Duchess of Sussex's son pic.twitter.com/3sTvDL14Cr Kensington Palace (@KensingtonRoyal) May 7, 2019 Its such a special time, obviously with Louis and Charlotte just having had their birthdays its such a great time of year to have a baby, spring is in the air, said the mother of three. The Duchess also said that the next few weeks will be daunting for Harry and Meghan since they are first time parents, and she wishes them all the best. Archie is the Queens eighth great-grandchild Archie is Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philips eighth great-grandchild and Prince Charles fourth grandchild. Even though the palace has not announced the babys official title, it is expected to be Earl of Dumbarton. The day after baby Archie arrived, the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh made a rare public appearance at Windsor Castle for the Order of Merit luncheon. And, while she didnt make an official statement about her new great-grandbaby, she did smile and answer yes when she was asked if life was good. The Queen and The Duke of Edinburgh were introduced to the newborn son of The Duke & Duchess of Sussex at Windsor Castle. Ms Doria Ragland was also present. The Duke & Duchess of Sussex are delighted to announce that they have named their son Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor. pic.twitter.com/PaHVhPlUl5 The Royal Family (@RoyalFamily) May 8, 2019 The Queen and Duke of Edinburgh were introduced to the newest royal the next day, and a photo captured the moment. The official Buckingham Palace twitter account @RoyalFamily posted the pic that featured the Queen, Prince Philip, Doria Ragland, Prince Harry, and Meghan Markle holding baby Archie after the royal couple had introduced him to the public. Charles and Camilla are delighted During their trip to Berlin, Prince Charles and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall said that they were delighted by the news of baby Archies arrival, and they look forward to meeting their new grandson when they return home to London. We couldnt be more delighted at the news and were looking forward to meeting the baby when we return. The Prince of Wales on the birth of his new grandson, speaking to well-wishers today in Berlin. #RoyalVisitGermany pic.twitter.com/Liyq1nJ97B Clarence House (@ClarenceHouse) May 7, 2019 Baby Sussex is now officially Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor, and he is seventh in line to the British throne behind Prince Charles, Prince William, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, Prince Louis, and his dad, Prince Harry. The royal family has been overjoyed with baby news this week; Prince Harry and Meghan Markle welcomed their first child, a son named Archie Harrison. The whole world celebrated the babys arrival, and the photos of Queen Elizabeth meeting another great grandchild were priceless. But elsewhere in the royal world, Princess Eugenie and Jack Brooksbank are celebrating seven blissful months of marriage. Will these royals have a baby soon? Princess Eugenie and Jack Brooksbank wed in October 2018. | Samir Hussein/WireImage/Getty Images Eugenie and Jack were married in October 2018 The princess first met her prince charming while on a family vacation to Switzerland in 2010. Jack is four years older than Eugenie, but the two got along well and things soon turned romantic. According to a family history, the two are actually very distant cousins, but of course, they are far too distant for it to matter. They made their relationship public in 2011, and Brooksbank proposed to Eugenie in Nicaragua in early 2018. The couple wed in a televised ceremony at Windsor Castle in 2018, the same place Harry and Meghan tied the knot. Kate, Meghan, and Zara Tindall all have children of similar ages Eugenie is a bit younger than her cousins, but many of them all have children of similar ages. Kate and Will have three kids who will grow up alongside Zara and Mike Tindalls children. Kates youngest, Princes Louis, is only a year older than Meghan and Harrys first born, Archie. (Meghan and Harry will likely have more kids.) All of the kids were born within roughly five years of one another, which means if Eugenie and Jack want their kids to grow up with the other young royals, they might want to think about starting a family soon. Before Eugenie and Jack were married, her mother said they looked forward to having kids Eugenie and Jack wed in fall 2018, but during the summer, Eugenies mother, Sarah Ferguson, said the two were already excited about starting a family. According to Romper, the couple had babies on their radar before they wed, and they were looking forward to having their mother there to babysit. Sarah writes childrens books and raised Eugenie and her sister, Princess Beatrice, so shes very clued in about taking care of kids, which makes the thought of parenting sound a bit easier. Fans are eager to see the couple welcome a child but the two havent set a timeline Although the couple seems to want children at some point, it doesnt look like they have any sort of timeline in place. Eugenie recently celebrated her 29th birthday, and its possible she wants to wait until her 30s to start a family. However, fans are definitely waiting for the couple to make a baby announcement. Eugenie posted a throwback photo with her sister a few weeks back, and people couldnt help but think about Eugenie with her own children. Cant wait till we get a Royal Baby Brooksbank announcement, the user wrote. Youre my favourite royal couple. The comment received more than 70 likes, but Eugenie and Jack havent specified any kind of timeline for having a baby. Its possible they might even want the excitement surrounding Meghan and Harrys little one to die down a bit before making an announcement themselves. Check out The Cheat Sheet on Facebook! Prince William and Kate Middleton Dont Give Their Kids Too Many Christmas Gifts Because of Princess Diana Princess Diana made sure Prince William and Prince Harry weren't overrun with Christmas presents and now Prince William's doing the same thing for his kids. He and Kate Middleton opt for more practical gifts Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis. LANXESS is set to break new ground when it comes to the development of customer-specific high-performance plastics. By deploying artificial intelligence (AI), the specialty chemicals company is looking to drastically cut the amount of time it takes to develop new materials. For this, LANXESS has entered into close collaboration with Citrine Informatics, a U.S.-based AI company specializing in data-driven materials development. The two companies have launched a pilot project aimed at gauging the potential of AI for the plastics production. The aim is to further optimize the glass fibers that LANXESS uses for reinforcing many of its high-performance plastics and ultimately to enhance the performance of the materials. Glass fiber sizing plays a key role here. Glass fibers that are mixed with the plastics to increase their mechanical performance are surrounded with a sizing. This helps the glass fibers to bond more strongly with the plastic matrix, ultimately ensuring the properties required of high-performance plastics. The process of optimizing glass fiber sizing is complex, laborious and time-consuming. We expect AI to cut the development time for optimized formulations by more than half, says Dr. Axel Tuchlenski, Head of Global Product and Application Development in the LANXESS High Performance Materials business unit. This will enable us to not only offer our customers even better tailor-made products, but also reduce time to market. AI to recommend formulations In traditional product development, the complex composition of glass fiber sizings and the numerous variables when manufacturing high-performance plastics require extensive testing, the results of which can be hard to predict. AI can make an important contribution in this case by getting the most out of the available data. Supplied from thousands of measurement results from previous formulations, raw material information and a host of additional data, AI algorithms calculate forecast models for improved test configurations and parameters, enhance these models on the basis of the measurement results from each individual test, and finally propose an optimum formulation. This procedure makes product development much faster than traditional methods. For Jorg Hellwig, who heads the LANXESS Digitalization Initiative, the pilot project for the development of high-performance plastics is just the beginning for AI at LANXESS. Artificial Intelligence is a vital technology for creating innovation from the myriad data within the Group. LANXESS launched its digitalization initiative in 2017, establishing a dedicated team. It is headed by Hellwig in his capacity as Chief Digital Officer who reports directly to Matthias Zachert, Chairman of the Board of Management of LANXESS AG. The initiatives core action areas are to develop digital business models, introduce new technologies throughout the value chain, develop and utilize big data, and foster digital expertise among employees. Citrine Informatics is the industry leader in the application of data-driven development methods to materials science known as materials informatics. The Citrine Platform accelerates the development of materials and chemicals using the power of materials data and AI. Citrine has been recognized for technology innovation by the World Economic Forum as a Tech Pioneer 2017, and won the Best-in-Biz Start-up of the Year Award in 2018. Citrine Informatics collaborates with some of the best universities in the world, including Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and the University of California, Berkeley. Alaska Power and Telephone (AP&T) has known that the hydropower cable that connects Haines and Skagway to the Kasidaya hydropower project has been vulnerable to damage for years, predicting the faults that the cable would develop with great accuracy. Still, no steps were taken to provide maintenance. An average household in Haines or Skagway pays between $200 and $250 a month for power, according to AP&T power operations manager Darren Belisle They charge us a lot of money for the electricity we use, and maintenance has to be a part of their budget, said veteran Haines Borough planning commissioner Rob Goldberg. We dont have any routine maintenance, Belisle said. Because its hard to do when its in such deep water. Belisle explained that there are only a few ships in the world capable of dealing with a hydropower cable at that depth, and it costs at least $250,000 to bring one of them here. The 17-mile armored cable is 4.5 inches in diameter and rests below 800 feet of water at the place where the cable is damaged worst. On March 3, AP&T first lost communication with the Kasidaya plant and realized that some of the cables fiber-optics were damaged. The company contacted a remotely operated submarine to assess the damage. It arrived two weeks later, which Belisle said is a fast response time. The submarine found significant damage caused by underwater landslides, which are frequent occurrences in the Taiya River Delta. Since the end of March, AP&T has known that the cable is on the verge of failure. Nothing has changed, said Belisle. Now, AP&T is going through the process of a long and complex contingency plan. AP&T is just beginning to talk to the municipality about other places to relocate the cable. In 2011, then AP&T operations manager Danny Gonce predicted that one or more faults would develop on the cable within the next 10 years. Its not a question of if, its a question of when our cable is going to fail, the CVN reported that Gonce said. When exactly the cable might failThats the million-dollar question, said Belisle. Reading all of the documentation on them, they last from 20 years to 50 years. Theres quite a large gap there, said Belisle. The hydropower cable was bought for $6 million in 1998. According to CVN reporting from 2011, the Italian manufacturer that built the cable, Pirrelli, guaranteed it for 30 years. Since then, Pirelli has been taken over by a company called Prysmian, and Prysmian did not respond for comment about the cables warranty. The cable is now 21 years old. Belisle estimated that a new cable would cost $7 million. If that cable does have an expected life span, then its a maintenance item. And if its a maintenance issue, it should be replaced in a timely manner, said Goldberg, We said it back (in 2011), why dont you just schedule this and replace it if its a maintenance item? But they didnt do it. AP&Ts explanation for not providing cable maintenance was that it was unaffordable and impractical to do so. If the power cable fails, it will take at least six months to replace it, according to Belisle, meaning that for at least six months, Haines would rely on diesel power. In 2010, AP&T first proposed to build a hydropower project closer to Haines, on Connelly Lake, which many opposed due to environmental concerns. In 2013, due to the high cost of the project, AP&T scrapped its Connelly Lake plans. Chick-fil-A to become 3rd largest fast-food chain in US sales amid growing popularity CP Reporter | 09 May, 2019 by Brandon Showalter Chick-fil-A is set to become the third largest fast-food chain in the United States as their signature chicken sandwiches and waffle fries continue to soar in popularity. Over 50 years after opening the first restaurant in the Atlanta area, Chick-fil-A's sales numbers have risen significantly, bested only by McDonald's and Starbucks, according to food-service consultancy Technomic Inc, as reported by the Wall Street Journal. The company remains privately-owned. "We've been pretty consistent in how, over multiple decades, we're going to take it slow and steady," said Mark Moraitakis, a Chick-fil-A senior director, speaking of the company's growth. "It's paid off for us." In the past 10 years, the restaurant's sales have tripled to $10.2 billion in 2018. The restaurant is especially popular among Christians in part because of the vision and values of the founding family. The restaurant chain has maintained over the years its policy of being closed on Sunday to honor the keeping of the Sabbath. The restaurant is also known for friendly customer service from staff. When customers say "thank you" to the employees they are trained to respond with "My pleasure." Chick-fil-A has approximately twice as many locations as they did in 2007, many of which are located in the South. "Each year since 2015, Chick-fil-A has been the top-rated fast-food restaurant on the American Customer Satisfaction Index, which considers factors such as staff courtesy and restaurant cleanliness," the WSJ noted. "Among limited-service U.S. restaurants that mainly serve chicken, Chick-fil-A's market share rose to 33% last year from 18% in 2009, while the market share of Yum Brands Inc.'s KFC chain fell to 15% from 29% in that time, according to data tracker Euromonitor." Chick-fil-A's success has also reportedly lessened hamburger sales, according to consultants and industry executives. The company has continued to make headlines for its consistently good customer service but has also received negative press as it continues to draw the ire of liberal groups and politicians because of the stated views of the restaurant's owners and previous donations to groups that oppose same-sex marriage. In March, the city council of San Antonio, Texas, voted to bar the chain from opening in the city airport over what they called "anti-LGBT behavior." Continue reading about Chick-fil-A on The Christian Post. Georgia bans abortion after heartbeat is detected, recognizes fetus as natural person 09 May, 2019 by Leonardo Blair , | Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp angered abortion supporters Tuesday when he signed a billinto law that bans abortion once a fetal heartbeat has been detected and recognizes fetuses as natural persons. "Georgia is a state that values life," Kemp said as he signed HB 481, also known as The Living Infants Fairness and Equality Act, into law. "We protect the innocent, we champion the vulnerable, we stand up and speak for those that are unable to speak for themselves." Republican State Rep. Ed Setzler, who also spoke at the bill signing, called the legislation a "common sense issue," saying that a preschooler would recognize a fetus as a baby. "The Living Infants Fairness and Equality Act is a bill that recognizes something that many have known for years. It recognizes that science tells us that children in the womb are living distinct human beings that are worthy of full legal protection. It recognizes what law tells us. We follow the dictates of solid law in the foundations that even our United States Supreme Court has said that if any recognizes the personhood of a child in utero that life gets full protection of our federal Constitution and that's what the Living Infants Fairness and Equality Act does today," he said. "And finally, common sense tells us, if you look at a child in the womb, with a beating heart, with a distinct blood type and you ask a preschooler, a small child, what are you looking at, they would look and say 'that's a baby.' When you recognize what science, law and common sense tells us today, that those in utero in Georgia, with a human heartbeat, with a full circulatory system, and all the components of humanity should get full protections of our laws. It's on that foundation that we stand today." The move also drew support from pro-life supporters such as Live Action founder and President Lila Rose. "This is a huge win for life. Georgia is the fourth state this year to pass a heartbeat bill, joining Kentucky, Mississippi, and Ohio. This law acknowledges the scientific fact that the pro-abortion movement tries desperately to ignore: This is a unique, individual human life in the womb, not a 'clump of cells;' and just three weeks after fertilization, the child's little heart is already beating. It's time for society and our laws to acknowledge that there are two human beings in a pregnancy - a baby and his or her mother - and both deserve protection," Rose said in a statement to The Christian Post. Popular Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y., lashed out at the legislation on Tuesday, calling it a "backdoor ban" on abortion. "'6 weeks pregnant' = 2 weeks late on your period. Most of the men writing these bills don't know the first thing about a woman's body outside of the things they want from it. It's relatively common for a woman to have a late period + not be pregnant. So this is a backdoor ban," she wrote on Twitter. "For context, this kicks in within days of a typical at-home test working. If you were sexually assaulted (stress delays cycle), took a morning-after pill (throws off cycle), or have an irregular cycle, you'd have no idea. There are a TON of ways this law ignores basic biology," she added. In a direct response to Ocasio-Cortez, Rose said: "I don't think you understand how these bills work. They ban abortion after the baby's heartbeat can be heard by ultrasound, which is around 6 wks. Also, a lot of women support these life-saving laws, myself included. You should join us. Glad some of 'the men' are on board, too." Read more from "Georgia bans abortion after heartbeat is detected, recognizes fetus as natural person" on The Christian Post. Following the deadly STEM school shooting in Colorado on Tuesday, Floridas Governor Ron DeSantis (R) signed a measure into law that will allow Florida teachers to carry guns in classrooms. According to the Associated Press, DeSantis quietly signed the bill on Wednesday, and it will immediately go into effect. Reportedly, the law will put into practice recommendations made by a commission formed after the Parkland Shooting last year. The laws goal is to expand the preexisting guardian program which already allows school employees to carry a gun outside of the classroom to allow teachers can carry guns inside of the classroom. All teachers and staff members who are a part of this program must be approved by the school district and are required to undergo police-like training with the sheriffs office, mental health screenings and background checks, the AP reports. According to U.S. News, 25 of 67 school districts in Florida are already enrolled in the guardian program. The Broward County school district, where the Parkland shooting took place, is currently enrolled in the program, but according to Fox News, the district has both rejected and protested the expansion of the program which allows teachers to be armed. According to the AP, the new measure was the center of contention last week between the states legislators. Democrats reportedly argued against the bill, fearing that it could lead to accidental shootings. Republicans, however, emphasized that in some districts particularly rural ones law enforcement officers could take more than 15 minutes to arrive at some schools if there is an active shooter. The bill contains dozens of other school safety measures including mental health screenings for troubled students and increased reportage of school safety and student discipline incidents. Photo courtesy: Kenny Luo/Unsplash Two Hoschton, Georgia politicians were asked to resign on Monday after making racist comments about a black job candidate. According to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution - who published an investigative report on the Mayor on Monday - Hoschton Mayor Theresa Kenerly denied someone a city administrator job because they were black. According to Relevant Magazine, Kenerly told a councilmember that she excluded the qualified candidate from consideration because he is black, and the city isnt ready for this. Hoschton is a small town made up of 2,000 people, most of whom are white. While being interviewed about the Kenerly controversy, Hoschton Councilman Jim Cleveland also made racists comments and credited his Christian faith for his beliefs. Cleveland, first defended the mayor saying, I understood where she was coming from I understand Theresa saying that, simply because were not Atlanta. Things are different here than they are 50 miles down the road, the Atlantic Journal-Constitution reports. Reportedly he added, I dont know how they [the majority white constituents] would take it if we selected a black administrator. She might have been right. Then, Cleveland reportedly commented on interracial marriage saying it makes my blood boil. He told reporters Im a Christian and my Christian beliefs are you dont do interracial marriage. Thats the way I was brought up and thats the way I believe, he continued. I have black friends, I hired black people. But when it comes to all this stuff you see on TV, when you see blacks and whites together, it makes my blood boil because thats just not the way a Christian is supposed to live. The politicians words quickly sparked outrage from the community and surrounding areas, causing many to demand their resignations. Their conduct is reprehensible. They have no business continuing to lead this city, Councilwoman Susan Powers said in a city council meeting Monday. Shantwon Austin, a black man who moved to Hoschton with his family two years ago said of the mayor and councilman, You do not represent our community and I didnt move here for that. According to Relevant Magazine, Mayor Kenerly has not commented on the incident or the calls for her resignation. Councilman Cleveland, however, is reportedly adamantly denying claims that he is racist. According to Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Cleveland is also asserting that the only way to get him out of office is for there to be a recall election. Photo courtesy: Cindy Baffour/Unsplash The House Judiciary Committee voted Wednesday to hold Attorney General William Barr in contempt of Congress. Previously, the committee had threatened to hold Barr in contempt if he did not release an unredacted copy of the report on possible collusion between Russia and the U.S. during the 2016 election. Barr is facing a contempt citation after refusing to release special counsel Robert Muellers full report by Monday. Barr has offered a less redacted version but has also said he cannot release the full report. As we have repeatedly explained, the attorney general could not comply with your subpoena in its current form without violating the law, court rules and court orders, and without threatening the independence of the Department of Justices prosecutorial functions, Assistant Attorney General Stephen Boyd wrote in a letter. Accordingly, this is to advise you that the president has asserted executive privilege over the entirety of the subpoenaed materials. The judiciary committee voted 24-16 along party lines to refer a contempt citation to the full House for a vote. According to the BBC, no date has been set for that vote. The Attorney Generals failure to comply with our subpoena, after extensive accommodation efforts, leaves us no choice but to initiate contempt proceedings in order to enforce the subpoena and access the full, unredacted report, House Judiciary Committee Chair Jerry Nadler (D-NY) said in a statement Monday. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said she supported the contempt citation and that impeaching Barr was not off the table. According to Vox.com, if the full House passes the contempt citation for Barr, Barr will officially be held in contempt and the citation will go to the U.S. Attorneys Office for the District of Columbia. The Department of Justice could say they do not plan on prosecuting Barr. In that case, Democrats could still try to pass a separate resolution to approve going to court with Barr. Related: House Judiciary Committee Vows to Hold AG William Barr in Contempt if He Does Not Testify at Mueller Hearings Trump Was Not Involved in Russian Interference, Mueller Report Says Mueller Report Undercuts Trump's Argument that He Didnt Obstruct, Democrats Say Attorney General Releases Summary of the Mueller Report: 3 Biblical Responses Photo courtesy: Getty Images/Mark Wilson/Staff Could a contrast between the American Revolution and the French Revolution be relevant to todays conflicts? I think so. The attempt to demote historic icons, like George Washington, is a case in point. George Washington grew up as a gentleman farmer in Virginia and was a fourth-generation slave-owner. But by the end of his life, he had decided slavery was immoral and so at his death, he freed his slaves and made provision for them. But in our day where the alleged right to not be offended often seems to trump the constitutional right to free speech some are calling for images of George Washington to be torn down, like statues of Confederates. The dailywire.com (5/2/19) reports on how George Washington High School in Northern California is contemplating tearing down two 1930s panels featuring George Washington because the pair of murals allegedly traumatizes students and community members. This is in San Francisco, so the outcome seems likely. How long will our historical iconoclasm last? The cultural Marxists are working overtime to cut Americans off from our history. I believe that despite his flaws, including being a slave-owner, there are many heroic aspects of our first president. Dr. Peter Lillback and I wrote, George Washingtons Sacred Fire, which puts all this in context. Recently we discussed Washington and slavery. Our founders fought the American Revolution, led by Washington, so that we could enjoy our God-given rights. Though slow in coming, recognition of those God-given rights eventually gave the slaves their freedom. What is happening in the culture wars today is a revival of the French Revolution, which waged war against God. France in 1789 fought against injustice, even in the church; but their godless cure ended up being worse than the disease. The French Revolution was anti-God and pro-tyranny leading to death in the streets. The American Revolution was pro-God and pro-freedom. Americas founders mentioned God four times in the Declaration of Independence. They identified King George IIIs tyranny as illegitimate because he was violating our God-given rights. The founders, with a firm reliance on the Lord, laid down their lives, their fortunes, and their sacred honor in support for their declaration as a new nation. When George Washington first read the Declaration to his troops, one of his first acts was to hire Christian chaplains systematically, throughout the army. He felt that if we were to win this war, it would only be with Gods help. And he and the other colonists felt that God didhelp. To paraphrase Washington in his First Inaugural Address, no people should be more grateful to the Lord than we Americans because God aided us at every step to become an independent nation. Consider a few further contrasts between the American Revolution and the French Revolution. Our framers signed the Constitution in the year of our Lord 1787. The French Revolutionaries got rid of the Christian calendar; and so they declared 1791 as Year 1 of their new non-Christian calendar. The French Revolutionaries desecrated Notre Dame Cathedral, disallowing Christian worship there and placed a half-naked woman on the altar, calling her Reason, whom they worshiped. In contrast, our founders hired Christian chaplains for the military and also for the House and Senate. Since there werent enough church buildings in Washington, D. C., they held Christian worship services in the Capitol building. Presidents Jefferson and Madison attended those services. The French Revolution eventually consumed its own. Since then, France has had 17 different governments, while the U.S. still lives under one the Constitution. I predict that todays social justice warriors, who are consuming our past heroes, will one day be consumed themselves by future revolutionaries. Future generations could look back at us and say things like: You had 4D sonograms documenting the humanity of the unborn and yet you allowed millions of abortions on demand? or Science has documented genuine differences between men and women, yet you allowed boys who claimed to be girls to compete and dominate in sports, winning valuable scholarships? Every generation has its flaws and blind spots. Our generation has yet to recognize its own. Slavery was evil. Thank God for those strong Christians who defeated it. Thank God for William Wilberforces Christian anti-slavery crusade, which took him about five decades to complete. That crusade inspired abolition here in America. Interestingly, in his day, Wilberforce was sometimes called the George Washington of Humanity. Both men worked hard to liberate others. Slavery has plagued humanity from the beginning of time and can even be found in some places today, places where the gospel of Christ has no sway. Too bad the children of the French Revolution are rising up today to cut us off from our past heroes. There is a reason Washington continues to be a hero to millions. Enough with the historical revisionism. ### Jerry Newcombe, D.Min., is an on-air host/senior producer for D. James Kennedy Ministries. He has written/co-written 31 books, e.g., The Unstoppable Jesus Christ, American Amnesia: Is American Paying the Price for Forgetting God?,What If Jesus Had Never Been Born?(w/ D. James Kennedy) & the bestseller, George Washington's Sacred Fire (w/ Peter Lillback) djkm.org @newcombejerry www.jerrynewcombe.com Photo courtesy: Kayla Koslosky God has given us a wonderful gift known as America. The government isn't bad or good; her people determine success or failure. Why would God ordain our government and then not want us to steward His gift? Many have been guilty of not getting involved by saying, We shouldn't say or do anything political. All we need to do is preach the gospel. Be careful . . . although the gospel is our primary focus, this shouldnt be an excuse against action. Listen to my thoughts on this by fast forwarding to the 25-minute mark here. James A. Garfield, an ordained minister and twentieth President of the United States, said, Now, more than ever before, the people are responsible for the character of their Congress. If that body be ignorant, reckless, and corrupt, it is because the people tolerate ignorance, recklessness, and corruption. We are actually voting for principles, not peopleall candidates are sinners. In what direction will they lead our country? is the question we should be asking. Even more importantly, what country will we leave for our children? We dont have to abandon our ethics or compromise our principles to be involved in politicswhat good is salt left in the shaker, or a light that is hidden? Contextually, when Jesus referred to being the salt and light, He was referring to holy living at the individual level, but the overlapping principle applies to all areas of life. Politics is not a bad word. In simple terms, politics refers to governing or leading a group of people. Again, politics wont save America, but in order to implement change and help others, we must take action; hence the political process. Would you have remained silent in the 1800s over slavery? Of course not. Politics that once focused largely on the economy, national security, and the deficit, now tackles important moral issues. These major issues have enormous implications; to remain silent actually makes a statement that we are not concerned enough. This is not just about the loss of jobs; its about the loss of morality. Were not just talking about adding millions of dollars to the national deficit; were talking about aborting millions of babies. Were not only talking about fluctuations in the housing market; were talking about creating life simply to destroy it. This shift requires us to stay closely involved. Topics that are too controversial are often critically important; we can no longer ignore them. Interestingly enough, the stability of America is one of the top concerns on the minds of many today. There was a time in recent history when America felt secure knowing that the most formidable enemies were abroad. Not so today. While we are concerned with terrorist attacks, and rightly so, there is a greater threat from corruption within. We, like the mighty Roman Empire that collapsed centuries ago, are crumbling from within. There are people and groups who are strongly committed to the destruction of anything rooted in our nations Christian heritage. They attempt to be one nation above God, rather than one nation under God. Scripture identifies this as foolishness, self-exaltation, and arrogancethe downfall of nations. There is a saying that one generation plants trees for the next generation. Im concerned that instead of planting, we are removing and destroying the very covering that protects us. As a result, our legacy as a great and noble nation has all but been forgotten. For instance, most schools no longer teach students about the spiritual foundation that has guided America throughout her history. Consequently, Americas moral and religious heritage is often deleted, grossly distorted, or revised altogether. As stated earlier: Students often miss the critical connection between Americas unparalleled greatness, her rise to world leadership, and the spiritual foundation that made it possible. This should concern us. The ideas of the classroom in one generation will create the ideas of government within the next. Today, our culture promotes relativism, and man does what is right in his own eyes. Again, according to Scripture, to his own destruction. Gods Word says to confront, confess, and turn from our sins; relativism encourages us to ignore, overlook, and continue in them. Although this position may seem radical or extreme, we are living in extremely critical times. Make no mistake about it: We are witnessing the rapid deterioration of a nation right before our eyes. But there is hope: 2 Chronicles 7:14 calls out from the past with resounding clarity to America today: If My people will humble themselves and pray and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from heaven, forgive their sins, and heal their land. There are times to encourage, motivate, and uplift, but there are also times to confront, challenge, and contend for what is rightthat time is now. Let it not be said of us today: And there arose another generation after them who did not know the LORD (Judges 2:10). The day of the silent pastor who is more concerned about nickels and noses must end . . . are we pleasing God or men . . . are we cowards or watchmen? Again, fast forward to the 25-minute mark here to hear more. Free copies of pastor Shane's book, One Nation Above God can also be found here: https://shaneidleman.com/books/ Read pastor Shanes last op-ed, Stop Trump Bashing - Enough Is Enough! Photo courtesy: Maria Oswalt/Unsplash Video courtesy: Westside Christian Fellowship State Representative John Rogers apologized earlier this week for his comment that retarded babies should be aborted. Late in April, Alabama Democrat John Rogers voiced his support for abortion during a House debate on a pro-life bill, stirring up controversy with his appeal. Some kids are unwanted, so you kill them now or you kill them later, he said. You bring them in the world unwanted, unloved, you send them to the electric chair. Rogers continued his remarks: Some parents cant handle a child with problems. It could be retarded. It might have no arms and no legs. Although he initially defended his statements, according to Yellowhammer News the representative regretted his choice of words on Talk 99.5s Matt & Aunie Show. The r-word is a word thats old and dates way back to the 1940s. Its not mentally challenged. Its a different [meaning] to it now, but I did use it. I was wrong about the retarded thing, Rogers said. Im shying away from the fact that I used the word retarded. Rogers also commented on two mentally challenged friends whom he loves to death. I support special needs children, and they love me unconditionally. I have relatives and friends with special-needs kids, so [using that word] was wrong. Charge it to my head, not my heart, he said, according to AL.com. As LifeNews points out, however, Rogers did not apologize for saying unwanted babies should be aborted. I stand by what I said, Rogers told AL.com. A lot of folks screamed at me. I got calls, too, from a lot of folks across the U.S. who said Im right. Cant nobody apologize for me but me. Rogers also apologized for his clash with Donald Trump Jr., when he suggested that the presidents son should have been aborted. He took a shot at me. I took a shot at him, Rogers said. I apologized to him. I aint got no problem doing that in public. State House Bill 314 bans all abortions, even in cases of rape or incest, with a felony charge for the practitioners who perform the procedure. It passed in the Republican-dominated House almost unanimously and now waits for Senate approval. Alabama lawmakers hope the bill will work its way to the U.S. Supreme Court in order to challenge Roe v. Wade. Photo Courtesy: WVTM Two churches in the South Pacific are at the center of a fight between governments around the world and a beleaguered cryptocurrency called OneCoin, now accused of scamming its way to billions in revenue. With its founders facing charges of fraud and money laundering, the crypto con went looking for a way into the tiny island nation of Samoa. It found one in Christian congregations where pastors could preach the wonders of a newfangled get-rich-quick plan. In these communities there is an enhanced sense of family and community bonds and with that comes a very strong sense of trust, Auckland, New Zealand-based lawyer Campbell Pentney told Samoa News. And of course, trust can be exploited by these scams. Though some investors from the Samoa Worship Centre Christian Church and an Auckland branch of the Samoan Independent Seventh Day Adventist Church (SISDAC) hold out hope to see their money again, the sense of exploitation is growing as hundreds of poor Christians ... 1 Pastors Pastor Warren Wiersbe, prolific Bible commentator and teacher, dies at 89 Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment Warren W. Wiersbe, a prolific author and Bible commentator who is credited with influencing thousands of pastors with his work, passed away on May 2 at age 89. Wiersbes death was announced by his grandson Dan Jacobsen last Thursday, with Jacobson referring to his grandfather as a bridge builder. When he said it, he meant that he had a knack for filling leadership roles as the interim between giants, wrote Jacobsen. The bridges Ive seen him build are far more impressive. His preferred tools were words, his blueprints were the Scriptures, and his workspace was a self-assembled library. Grandpa built bridges from the world of the Bible to the world of today so that we could get to the other side of glory in Jesus. Many prominent evangelical leaders have expressed their condolences, with Jerry Vines, a former Southern Baptist Convention president who was friends with Wiersbe. I first heard Dr. Wiersbe at a Bible conference [in the early 1960s], stated Vines, as reported by the Baptist Press. What I heard him do with Scripture that day changed my preaching forever. He changed me from a topical preacher to a text-driven preacher. Erwin W. Lutzer, former senior pastor of The Moody Church of Chicago, Illinois, which Wiersbe once led, said that Wiersbe was a master at connecting with people. He would walk down a half hour before the service began to shake hands, ask questions, and find out what the needs of the congregation were, recalled Lutzer in a tribute posted to Moodys website. As our paths crossed in subsequent years, Warren always assured me that he and Betty regularly prayed for me and the continuing ministry of The Moody Church. Daniel Darling of the SBC Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission took to social media to express that he was saddened by the news of Wiersbes passing. Wiersbe had a formative influence on me as a writer and pastor. A long full life of service to the church, stated Darling on Twitter. A native of East Chicago, Indiana, Wiersbe was born in 1929, becoming a born again Christian in 1945 after hearing a sermon by the Rev. Billy Graham. He was ordained in 1951 and served as pastor for Central Baptist Church of East Chicago, Calvary Baptist Church of Covington, Kentucky and Moody Church, as well as leadership roles for Youth for Christ International and the Slavic Gospel Association. A prolific author, Wiersbe wrote approximately 150 books, among them being the BE series of expositional commentaries on Bible books. Entries included Be Basic for Genesis chapters 1-11 and Be Courageous for Luke chapters 14-24. Wiersbe was active in radio, with sermons of his broadcast on Moodys Songs in the Night national radio program and later served many years at Back to the Bible Radio Ministries as a Bible teacher. His commentaries, radio programs, and books heavily influenced large numbers of preachers, leading many to refer to him as the pastors pastor. When you learn the joy and the privilege of Bible study, you dont have to be paid to do it. You dont have to be pushed at doing it, and scolded. No, no, no. Its a privilege. Its a marvelous, glorious privilege, said Wiersbe, as reported by The Gospel Coalition. You may not see it, you may not know it. But others will know that youre walking in the light. Blessed is the man that God blesses from the Word, because that is going to last forever. Cameroon pastor killed by military as violence against civilians continues in Anglophone crisis Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment A pastor was allegedly shot and killed by military forces in Cameroon last month amid the ongoing violence in the countrys Anglophone regions. Pastor Keloh Elijah, a graduate of Cameroon Baptist Theological Seminary in Ndu, was reported to have been killed during a military invasion in the Mfumte area where other people were also said to have been killed, a source with knowledge of the situation told The Christian Post this week. It is unclear at the moment how many were killed during the invasion in Mfumte. The pastors death comes as the government has cracked down on separatist activists in the English-speaking communities in the northwest and southwest parts of the country, areas that militant groups have self-proclaimed the Republic of Ambazonia. According to Efi Tembon, a ministry leader active in Bible translation efforts who is working to provide assistance to the pastors family, Elijah served at Bitu Baptist Church until March 6 and began ministering at Berean Baptist Church in Mfumte on March 30. On April 1, Elijah was said to have left for a missions trip to a nearby village. He returned about a week later on April 7, the day in which military forces allegedly descended on the area. Elijah reportedly returned home to greet his wife and six children. But he then left to go to church. It was around 8:30 a.m. when three gunshots were heard. Pastor Keloh had been shot by the military according to eyewitnesses, Tembon explained in an email. Many other people were killed in the area. The military has search and lotted homes and burnt down several houses. Because of this, the local community was forced to flee into the forest," he added. Some elderly people who could not flee were left behind. Many of the Bible translators fled into the forest. The majority of them have now crossed into Nigeria. Separatist demonstrators began protesting for autonomy in 2016 as they felt underrepresented in the majority-French-speaking central government. Violence escalated in the Anglophone communities in 2017, worsened considerably and has led to the displacement of hundreds of thousands. The violence has also caused a delay in as many as 38 Bible translation projects in Cameroon. Tembon said that Elijahs wife and children are still in the forest. Tembon runs a ministry called the Oasis Network for Community Transformation, which is helping the pastor's family cross the border to Nigeria. The Cameroon government, a U.S., U.K. and France partner in the fight against terrorist group Boko Haram, has acted in a similar fashion to ISIS and Boko Haram if not worse, Oasis Network stressed in a report on the ongoing genocide in Cameroon. The Cameroon government has used its military to carry out terrorist acts, genocide and crimes against humanity in Southern Cameroons. Such crimes, the network stated, include beheadings, torture, mass arrests, sexual violence, public executions, the burning of homes and villages and also the burning alive of people. The network also accused the government of deliberately arming minority Mbororo (a subgroup of Fulani) people to go against the local population. As many as 215 villages and towns have been impacted by the conflict in the regions, according to Tembon. An April 15 report from the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs explains that as many as 4 million people are affected by the conflict in Cameroon with over 1.3 million in need. "Violence against civilians in North-West and South-West regions continues to have a serious impact on livelihoods and generate acute humanitarian needs," the report reads. "The rainy session is making access to goods and services even more difficult for both IDPs and local population, for those internally displaced who are hiding in the forest." Last year, it was estimated that at least 2,000 people had been killed in the conflict with over 200,000 people being displaced amid reports of military forces turning churches into military barracks. "The number of displaced people just keeps increasing and the military invade villages every day," Tembon said. According to Tembon, updated estimates suggest that as many as 2,015 villages and towns have been burned or destroyed as the government has "escalated the burnings in the last months." "Mfumte area has a few villages and all have been affected," Tembon explained. In April, Human Rights Watch reported on a deadly military attack in the northwest region village of Meluf that took place three days before the invasion in Mfumte. Five civilian men, including one with a mental disability, were said to have been killed. Three mutilated bodies were later discovered, one of which was decapitated. One resident reported that soldiers stormed into his home, killed his uncle and shot his aunt. "Based on interviews with 10 witnesses and residents and review of video and photographic sources, Human Rights Watch found that the victims were either executed or shot as they attempted to flee when the security forces raided their neighborhood, located near an armed separatists camp," the report reads. Last November, Bishop Andrew Nkea described in a media interview an attack on a church by soldiers in the southwest that killed priest Cosmas Omboto Ondari. He described other instances in which civilians have been shot in front of churches. "We are seeing deaths every day and nobody is being charged," he said. This week, Human Rights Watch reported that Cameroonian authorities have also tortured and held incommunicado detainees at a detention center in the capital of Yaounde. The rights group noted that the government has detained and tortured alleged members of armed separatist groups and terrorist groups like Boko Haram at the facility since at least 2014. Since the beginning of the Anglophone crisis in 2016, security forces have arrested or held incommunicado hundreds of people. Many people have been held for several months, and some have not re-emerged. Local human rights organizations estimate that nearly 1,000 people have been arrested since late 2016, of whom 340 were released following two presidential decrees, in August 2017 and December 2018, the report reads. Many have been charged under the 2014 counterterrorism law, which uses an extremely broad definition of terrorism that could be used to restrict fundamental rights and freedoms and enables the government to try civilians unlawfully in military courts. People found guilty of terrorism under the 2014 law can face the death penalty. HRW documented 26 cases of incommunicado detentions and enforced disappearances at the detention center in Yaounde. Of the people HRW interviewed, only three said they were former separatist fighters while the rest said they were civilians. All 26 detainees, including two women and an 18-month-old child, were held incommunicado at the SED between January 2018 and January 2019, many for several months, without any contact with family, friends, or legal counsel, HRW reports. As violence continues between separatists and government forces, civilians have been caught in the crossfire. In addition to the killing of Pastor Elijah, American missionary Charles Wesco was killed last October in front of his wife and son while driving near the town of Bamenda in Cameroon's northwest English-speaking region. Wesco is the brother of Republican Indiana State Rep. Tim Wesco. His death was acknowledged by Republican Indiana Gov. Eric Holcomb. Cameroonian Defense Minister Joseph Beti Assomo blamed "terrorists" for the crime but separatist supporters claimed that the military was behind the attack. The government released further details about Wesco's death last November. Chick-fil-A to become 3rd largest fast-food chain in US sales amid growing popularity Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment Chick-fil-A is set to become the third largest fast-food chain in the United States as their signature chicken sandwiches and waffle fries continue to soar in popularity. Over 50 years after opening the first restaurant in the Atlanta area, Chick-fil-A's sales numbers have risen significantly, bested only by McDonald's and Starbucks, according to food-service consultancy Technomic Inc, as reported by the Wall Street Journal. The company remains privately-owned. Weve been pretty consistent in how, over multiple decades, were going to take it slow and steady, said Mark Moraitakis, a Chick-fil-A senior director, speaking of the companys growth. Its paid off for us. In the past 10 years, the restaurant's sales have tripled to $10.2 billion in 2018. The restaurant is especially popular among Christians in part because of the vision and values of the founding family. The restaurant chain has maintained over the years its policy of being closed on Sunday to honor the keeping of the Sabbath. The restaurant is also known for friendly customer service from staff. When customers say "thank you" to the employees they are trained to respond with "My pleasure." Chick-fil-A has approximately twice as many locations as they did in 2007, many of which are located in the South. "Each year since 2015, Chick-fil-A has been the top-rated fast-food restaurant on the American Customer Satisfaction Index, which considers factors such as staff courtesy and restaurant cleanliness," the WSJ noted. "Among limited-service U.S. restaurants that mainly serve chicken, Chick-fil-As market share rose to 33% last year from 18% in 2009, while the market share of Yum Brands Inc.s KFC chain fell to 15% from 29% in that time, according to data tracker Euromonitor." Chick-fil-As success has also reportedly lessened hamburger sales, according to consultants and industry executives. The company has continued to make headlines for its consistently good customer service but has also received negative press as it continues to draw the ire of liberal groups and politicians because of the stated views of the restaurant's owners and previous donations to groups that oppose same-sex marriage. In March, the city council of San Antonio, Texas, voted to bar the chain from opening in the city airport over what they called "anti-LGBT behavior." We hope they will experience for themselves that Chick-fil-A embraces all people, regardless of race, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation or gender identity, Chick-fil-A told CP in a statement, after it reached out to the city for a dialogue with the council. This was preceded by Rider University in Lawrenceville, New Jersey, rejecting a student body request to allow a Chick-fil-A restaurant on campus. The university claimed that the fast food companys views on LGBT issues have not sufficiently progressed enough. In response, one of the schools deans, Cynthia Newman of the College of Business who is a committed Christian, submitted her letter of resignation in February in protest the school's move. Chick-fil-As corporate values first came under fire in 2012, when its President Dan Cathy affirmed his stance in support of traditional marriage. In 2014, he said he regretted wading into the marriage debate. The fast-food company announced in July its plans to open its first location outside the U.S., in Toronto, Canada. Popular worship leader Steffany Gretzinger leaves Bethel Music after 10 years Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment Known for leading thousands in corporate worship, Steffany Gretzinger announced that she will be leaving her home church, Bethel, where she spent the past decade per the Lords leading. The rumors are true. After 10 years, The Lord is sending us to Nashville, TN, Gretzinger recently shared on Instagram. Its been a long time coming, but we were in no way hurrying to leave this house, this home. The "Love Never Fails" co-writer became well known through making worship hits for Bethel Music, a worship ministry that organically formed as an extension of Bethel Church in Redding, California. Since its inception 10 years ago the worship group has grown from being a local church band to a global voice in worship music. Gretzinger led worship at Bethel until the end of April before moving to Nashville. Photos showed the songstress received the blessings of Senior Pastor Bill Johnson and the church's leadership. She revealed they prayed and prophesied over her and gave her flowers. I am reminded once more how lavishly God honors our obedience. Its not easy to leave THIS, but Jesus is the JOY ever set before me, and He is leading us out!!! We are SO excited!!! Gretzinger declared. The fire always falls on sacrifice, and these fathers and mothers that surround me have given more than the world will ever know. Heaven only knows. Thank you for not only GIVING me room, but for MAKING me room to dance. Know that I love you deeply, and my gratitude is great. The worship leader admitted that shes been crying many tears of gratitude in this season for the leadership shes had and will continue to have in Bethel. Transitioning VERY sure that I will always be a beloved daughter here, and that we will absolutely come back home as often as we can, she ended her emotional post. Gretzinger attended the Bethel School of Supernatural Ministry in 2008 and remained there until now. The church publicly acknowledged her transition as well. This past weekend we blessed and sent off Steffany Gretzinger, who with her family has felt the call of God to Nashville, Bethel Church wrote on social media on April 26. Steff, your faith to follow Jesus anywhere He takes you both in worship and in life has been a constant inspiration. You've demonstrated to a generation the freedom, joy, peace and purity that come when we abandon ourselves fully to Jesus. Your presence in Redding will be sorely missed, but we know that what you carry is too powerful for us to keep just for ourselves. We're excited to see how Nashville is going to be impacted by the power of God in you. Global family, we know you will miss her too! Gretzinger did not share details on what was next for her in Nashville but she shared on social media that her new home is another promise fulfilled. Rome opens up exorcism course to all major Christian faiths to fight rising demonic forces Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment For the first time in 14 years, the Roman Catholic Church has opened up its annual exorcism class in Rome to all major Christian faiths in a bid to stem the rising tide of demonic forces around the world. The idea is to help each other, to establish best practices if you will, Father Pedro Barrajon, 61, one of the organizers of the 14th edition of the Course on Exorcism and Prayer of Liberation, taking place at the Pontifical University of Regina Apostolorum, told the Telegraph. This is the first time that different denominations have come together to compare their experiences on exorcisms. The one week course which is taught in Italian at a cost of approximately $450 is being held May 6- 11. It is described as the first course in the world that proposes careful academic and interdisciplinary research of exorcisms. Expelling the devil goes back to the earliest origins of the Christian Church, Barrajon said. The Catholic rite is very structured, whereas some of the other churches are more creative, they don't use a precise format. More than 241 people, both lay and religious, from more than 40 countries signed up for the course this year, Crux Now reported. I'm here to understand the Catholic perspective. We are fighting the same enemy in the name of the Lord, even if there are some parts of the Anglican Church that have lost belief in Satan, course participant Benjamin McEntire, a Protestant priest from Alaska, said. They all agree that growing secularization has led to a proliferation of satanic groups, especially among young people through social media. Many young people display a certain attraction and interest toward themes tied to esotericism, magic, the occult, Satanism, witchcraft, vampirism and contact with a presumed supernatural world, Italian Professor Giuseppe Ferrari, founder and secretary of the Social and Religious Research and Information Group, said during his introductory speech at the event. Some end up accepting as spiritual leaders these characters who, while proposing a flawed liberty and false freedom, only aim at taking hold of their existence, he explained. While critics of the course have argued that the study of exorcism has no place in modern society, organizers of the event have emphasized a multidisciplinary approach to exorcism that tackles psychology, medicine, law, sociology and criminology in order to help students better understand the changing dynamics and reality of Satanism. This view [that exorcisms has no place in modern society] not only displays ignorance and a restricted view of reality, but underlines the conditioning by ideologies that tag as superstition everything that eludes their preconstructed schemes, Ferrari said of critics. Indeed, a report in The Christian Post last fall highlighted the astronomical growth of self-identified witches in the U.S. Ahead of the first annual Christian witches convention in Salem, Massachusetts, in April, internationally recognized Prophet Calvin Witcherargued that Jesus was a sorcerer and the Bible is really a book of magic. Some believe that this return to exorcism and prayer of liberation is derived from a distancing from God, Barrajon told journalists. Ferrari explained that efforts are now underway to assess the number of exorcists in the United States, Canada, England, Ireland, Italy, Spain and Switzerland and monitor the number of requests they receive for exorcisms and prayers of liberation. We dont yet have a reliable number, he said but he believes that many people who believe they are demon possessed may also be suffering from psychological issues. Surrogate Moms Urge Supreme Court to Hear Case on Exploitation of Women, Babies Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment WASHINGTON Three women who had harrowing experiences with surrogate pregnancies are petitioning the Supreme Court to clarify the rights women and children have. Earlier this week, surrogate mothers Melissa Cook, Gail Robinson and Toni Bare who say they were exploited by the fertility industry, spoke at the National Press Club alongside their attorney, Harold Cassidy, and shared their experiences and what they're asking the high court to do. In all three pregnancies an anonymous egg donor supplied the ova; none of the surrogate women were genetically related to the children they carried. The three women all signed gestational surrogacy contracts and each of them ended up in thorny litigation. Cook, who had filed a petition in the U.S. Supreme Court last summer but was denied a review in October, filed another petition a different court proceeding though it involves the same facts and dispute which was docketed on April 30. She describes her experience with surrogacy as a "horror" story. "I no longer view surrogacy arrangements in the same favorable light I once did," Cook said Wednesday in remarks shared with The Christian Post. "Children derive a special benefit from their relationship with their mother. What is best for the children is always pre-eminent. When a mother knows that their child is entering into a situation that is not in their best interests or, as in my case, downright detrimental to them, they have a right to object." The intended parent and his attorney in Cook's surrogacy contract demanded that she abort at least one of the babies upon discovering she was carrying triplets. Multiple embryos are routinely implanted in gestational surrogates in hopes that at least one will take. Cook, being pro-life, refused to abort any of the babies. "A mother develops a sense of what is best for a child she loves, and I love these children. No state, no court, and no nation should ever rip a baby out of the arms of a mother who loves her child, and who is perfectly fit and who accepts the responsibility of caring for the child she carried," she said. When the triplets were born via c-section in February 2016, the hospital staff took the babies from Cook and refused to let her see them, she recounted. The newborns were only 28 weeks post conception in age and she was concerned for their health. But the hospital would not allow her to know about their condition or even basic facts like their weights during their eight weeks in the neonatal intensive care unit. The hospital reportedly posted two security guards on her floor to ensure she wouldn't attempt to see the babies, and required everyone who came to visit her, including her other children, to show identification. "That experience was dehumanizing and no mother should ever be treated that way," she said. Cook said she learned not long ago that the hospital had to send three nurses to Georgia to set up a nursery and that the nurses had contacted Georgia Children's Services because they believed that the intended parent, Charles Moore, a postal worker from Georgia, was unfit to be a father. Those concerns were shared by children's rights advocate Katy Faust, founder of Them Before Us, whom CP interviewed following the Washington state legislature's approval of a bill legalizing commercial surrogacy. Faust, who actively lobbied against the surrogacy legislation in Washington, noted in a March 6 radio interview with Janet Mefferd that Cook's three babies, after they were finally transferred into Moore's care, had been seen at the local hospital due to neglect and that Moore had a history of mental illness, pulling out his own hair, and killing household pets. Cassidy said in his remarks Wednesday that the United States has laws guarding against the exploitation of women and the treatment of children as property. "We do not now nor could we ever condone and enforce a practice that plans in advance of conception to separate a child from his or her mother," he said. "A child's best interest are of paramount concern and each child has a right to know, love, and establish a healthy relationship with his or her mother. No civilized society can treat a woman as an inanimate object or expect a mother to ignore her natural moral duty to her child." Yet such are the expectations routinely placed on women in third party reproductive contracts, he said. Cassidy explained in an interview with The Washington Post Wednesday that the nature of legal surrogacy arrangements prevents "a child being placed where it's in the child's best interest." "It is surprising and disturbing," he said, noting that many lower courts have declined to rule on the complicated questions that arise from surrogacy and instead make the issue about enforcing contracts. But when dealing with a life of a child, "there are rulings that have to be made." In an email to CP Friday, Cassidy added that "because of the important fundamental rights involved, there is a need for the constitutional issues to be decided before surrogacy becomes widespread." Half of all U.S. states have not held that surrogacy contracts are enforceable and in the states that do enforce them, state courts have strongly protected their state law, he added. Yet the violations of the constitutional rights of the children and the mothers have now been raised in two states and the federal courts, and in all three instances, the courts have refused to decide questions pertaining to the violation of a child's right "to be free from commodification and free from state enforced sale of the children; the children's reciprocal right to their relationship with the only mother they have; and the children's right to have their custody placed based upon what is in their best interests." "That is a clear dereliction of the courts' obligations," he maintained. Cassidy further noted that the Iowa Supreme Court has refused to rule on the federal rights of the mother based upon federal constitutional law, and has skirted deciding these matters "by claiming, incorrectly, that the signing of a document before the child even came into existence operated as a waiver of the child's rights and those of the mother." Washington State to 'Monetize Wombs,' Legalize 'Baby Selling,' Redefine 'Parent' Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment Washington state is set to legalize commercial surrogacy, a move children's rights advocates say amounts to the selling of babies, bases the definition of a parent on "intent," and opens avenues for child abuse and other horrors. Just before 1 a.m. Wednesday morning, the Washington state House of Representatives passed the "Uniform Parentage Act," along party lines with every Democrat in favor and every Republican opposed. The bill had previously passed the state Senate with total Democratic support and three Republicans. The state's Democratic governor, Jay Inslee, is expected to sign the legislation. "For House Republicans, this bill was a matter of conscience,'' said Liz Pike, who represents the state's 18th house district, according to Clark County Today. "We all voted 'no' to protect the womb from being monetized and commercialized. This bill sets virtually no limits on the amount people will be able to sell or purchase a human baby for. I'm disgusted that such a bill would ever be considered let alone pass. What have we become as a state, selling human babies to the highest bidder? Is this who we are?" Katy Faust, who leads children's rights organization Them Before Us and testified against the legislation during the hearings, regards the likely soon-to-be law as disastrous. "When I say that we have established a global marketplace for children, I am not exaggerating. That is exactly what this is," Faust told The Christian Post Thursday afternoon. "Once you legalize something and commercialize something, you're going to get more of it," she said, noting that the Washington legislation contains no restrictions and more economically disadvantaged and vulnerable women who think this is just another way to make money will be exploited. As the bill stands, Faust explained, no limits are placed on how many children can be procured through surrogacy arrangements, no requirements exist saying that people intending to pay for surrogacy services must be residents of Washington state or American citizens, or even that the women must be inseminated in Washington. All it takes is one consultation that occurs on Washington soil and a contract can be legally enforced even if the individuals using the surrogate mother hail from nations where surrogacy is prohibited. Motions to amend the bill requiring all "intended parents" to be subject to the same screening procedures as adoptive parents and the creation of a state-run database to track those intended parents and limit the number of births were voted down. "In its current form, as it passed out of the House, the bill even permits convicted felons to purchase human babies,'' Pike explained. "There was a host of amendments offered by my esteemed colleagues that would have put needed protections in the bill, but of course, the Democrats systematically rejected them all one by one." In recent years, notable horror stories have appeared detailing the abuses of the fertility industry. The Straits Times reported Sunday that 28-year-old Japanese billionaire Mitsutoki Shigeta, who is not married, won custody of 13 children that his sperm was used to create through an American-owned fertility clinic operating in Bangkok, using surrogates from Thailand. He reportedly told the clinic he wanted to produce 10 to 15 babies per year and continue the baby-making process until he dies, yielding potentially hundreds of children. He plans to send his offspring to an international school in Tokyo. Faust told CP that he or anyone else like him could come now to Washington state and legally undertake a similar endeavor if the Uniform Parentage Act is signed into law. Though the Democratic legislators had their minds made up, Faust gave each one a copy of a list of documented cases where surrogacy-related incidents went horribly wrong, including a case where two men were convicted of subjecting their surrogate-born son to, as one investigator described it, "the worst [paedophile] rings ... if not the worst ring I've ever heard of." Police believe the men created the boy through surrogacy ''for the sole purpose of exploitation.'' Several nations have closed their borders to surrogacy altogether, banning third party reproductive operators from conducting business there often because of such ugly instances and abuses. "So now we wait for children to be harmed," said Faust, exasperated, when asked where things currently stand in the northwestern state. Commercial surrogacy is also legal in California and legislation is currently under consideration in a few other states. Though the surrogacy aspect has received most of the attention in the legislative debate, the bill is far more radical in how it defines "parent" as it essentially erases biology from the picture, Faust stressed. "What this bill actually does is establish that all it takes for [the state government] to decide that one gets full authority over a vulnerable baby is one's 'intent' to parent. It doesn't matter if you have any biological connection to the child at all. It doesn't matter how many adults, if one is single or married. If you intend to parent and create a contract and have the means to create a child through surrogacy or other reproductive technologies, we will give you our full authority." The language of the bill is worded in a very murky way, she said, and some are raising the possibility that more than two people could enter such contracts and be legally considered "parents." The legislation sometimes refers to "both" parents but mainly speaks of "adjudicated parents" and "intended parents" and defers to the terms of the contract, Faust said. Mere "intent" to parent flies in the face of all of best practices of adoption, she added, and it violates the Hague Convention on international adoption that has been adopted by 70 nations around the world. The number one predictor of child abuse, she noted, is a home where a cohabiting male is present who is not related to the child. But he, too, can be a legal "parent" under this bill. "We are knowingly putting children in situations where they are statistically the most likely to be abused and neglected," Faust said. "People don't get what a massive shift this is. We are messing with the nature of what it means to be a human baby. That is what we're doing." Woman in Poland faces prison for showing Mary and Jesus with rainbow halos Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment A 51-year-old woman is now facing up to two years in prison in Poland for offending religious feelings among the countrys devout Catholic community by putting up posters of the celebrated Black Madonna showing the Virgin Mary and baby Jesus with rainbow halos. The woman was identified in a CNN report as human rights activist Elzbieta Podlesna. Local police allege in a statement that a priest in the city of Plock reported that on the night of April 26-27, materials with the desecrated image of Our Lady of Czestochowa, popularly known as the Black Madonna, were found around the city glued to portable toilets, rubbish bins and other areas. An investigation was conducted which led police to Podlesna, who they discovered during the initial investigation had traveled abroad. As soon as she returned to Poland, police got a search warrant for her apartment in Warsaw. They also searched Podlesnas car and found several posters with the desecrated image of the Black Madonna. She was arrested and charged after that for "offending religious beliefs," after which she was released. It should be emphasized that the police officers carried out their statutory duties while performing activities in this matter. Submission of a crime notification, as it was done in this case, obliges officers to take such actions. The detention time was limited only to the execution of procedural acts, after which the woman was released, a translated version of the statement said. We would like to emphasize once again that the Police would behave in the same way in the case of notification of a crime concerning offending religious feelings of followers of any other religion. An example of such actions by the police officers was a quick reaction to the events that took place in Pruchnik or in the case of desecration of the mosque in 2014. There is no and will not be allowed to insult religious feelings in our country. Police in such cases will always take actions defined by law, authorities added. In an interview with TVN24 Tuesday, Podlesna said she did not attack religion with the posters. This is certainly not an attack on religion, certainly not an attack on faith, this is not a form of attack, she said. How can you attack anyone using a picture? Lets be serious. Her lawyer, Radoslaw Baszuk, told CNN that while his client has not admitted to committing the crime that does not mean that she did not deny participation in this event." The Black Madonna resides in the Jasna Gora monastery, one of the holiest shrines in Poland and the posters have sparked massive outcry around the country. "No whim of freedom and 'tolerance' gives anyone the right to offend the feelings of believers," Polish Interior Minister Joachim Brudzinski said on Twitter. In a statement Monday, Amnesty Internationals regional Europe researcher, Barbora Cernusakova, raised concern about Podlesnas arrest. We are extremely concerned to hear that Elzbieta Podlesna, a Polish human rights activist, was arrested and detained for several hours on spurious charges yesterday upon her return to Poland from a trip to Belgium and the Netherlands with Amnesty International, she said. The organization further called on Polish authorities to avoid targeting peaceful protesters. "Having, creating or distributing posters such as these should not be a crime. Everyone has a right to express themselves we are all protected under the right to freedom of expression," Amnesty argued. Given the lack of evidence of a crime here, we can only see that Elzbieta has been detained for her peaceful activism. Amnesty International calls on the Polish authorities to stop harassing peaceful protesters and activists in Poland, including by arbitrarily arresting people who stand up for their rights. Restricting activists from freely expressing their views in the country is unlawful and must stop immediately." Woman who tried to flush newborn baby boy in toilet at McDonalds gets no prison time Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment A 27-year-old California woman who was charged with attempted murder after she tried to flush her newborn baby boy down the toilet of a McDonalds restaurant where she worked nearly two years ago will serve no time in prison. The woman, Sarah Jane Lockner, was sentenced to four years supervised probation and one year in county jail with credit for time served, SFGate reported. She had been in custody on $11 million bail. She was also ordered to complete parenting classes as part of a plea deal in January in which she admitted she tried to drown her son in the toilet in exchange for the dropping of the attempted murder charge. San Mateo County Dist. Atty. Steve Wagstaffe said Lockner was working at a McDonald's restaurant in Redwood City on Sept. 4, 2017, when she complained of stomach pain. Lockner was told by her boss to go home if she was in pain, and around 10 p.m. she clocked out but stayed in the bathroom. One of Lockners co-workers would later check on her in the bathroom and noticed blood on the floor. Lockner told the co-worker she was having a heavy menstrual cycle. When a second co-worker went into the bathroom, she looked over the stall divider and saw a newborn child in the toilet, Wagstaffe said. "There was a newborn baby boy in the toilet water," Wagstaffe told KTVU. "She had her hand on the baby boy's back pushing it into the water in an effort to kill it." Lockner begged her colleague not to call the police but that didn't happen. When police arrived at the restaurant they found Lockner with the newborn in her arms. The baby boy had no pulse and wasn't breathing. Officers performed CPR and rushed the boy to Lucile Packard Children's Hospital in Palo Alto. Lockner allegedly told police that she had picked the baby up, wiped off his face, and placed him back in the toilet, face up, and denied trying to drown him. Along with the attempted murder charge, Lockner was also charged with felony child abuse and inflicting great bodily injury. The boy who went on to survive by the grace of God, said Wagstaffe, was reported to be in the care of his fathers aunt and named Adrian. There was also some discussion in family court about potentially reuniting Lockner, who has an older son, and her boyfriend, with Adrian. There have been discussions of whether (Lockner) would be able to be a mother again, Wagstaffe said. She has claimed she did not know she was pregnant with either of her sons, which Wagstaffe and her public defender, Jonathan McDougall, have looked into to assess her mental state. Santa Clara University law Professor Michelle Oberman who has studied mothers who did not know they were pregnant and either killed or attempted to kill their newborns said Lockners case was unusual because she experienced pregnancy before. There is something terrible going on in their minds, a disconnection from their body and marriage, and feeling a lack of control and to the point of not getting care, Oberman told the Palo Alto Daily Post. Womb rental akin to prostitution, campaigners say; women, babies exploited in surrogacy Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment WASHINGTON The renting of wombs, known as surrogacy, is akin to prostitution and the exploitation done to women often go unrecognized by the public, campaigners opposed to the practice say. "A surrogate pregnancy is, naturally, a high-risk pregnancy," as a result of all of the medical technologies and drugs needed to make one happen, said Jennifer Lahl in her remarks at the Heritage Foundation Monday during a panel on the casualties of surrogacy. "A woman's body is not designed to carry another woman's baby," Lahl said. Yet surrogacy is almost always heralded as a beautiful, wonderful thing, she said, glamorized in the media by Hollywood celebrities like Jimmy Fallon and Kim Kardashian. The reality of surrogacy, however, is a multitude of health risks and psychological and medical harms. Lahl is the founder of the California-based Center for Bioethics and Culture and an advocate for women who have been exploited in commercially contracted pregnancies, which are often transnational. "If you want to get a new puppy or a new cat, a baby kitten, it is required it is actually seen as cruelty to animals and inhumane to remove that newborn animal from its mother. You have to wait six to eight weeks by law in the state of California to adopt a puppy or a little baby kitten." "As a pediatric nurse, I know that maternal-child bonding is good, normal, and natural, and encouraged except where surrogacy ignores and waves all those important bonds away with the narrative being 'the kids are all right.'" Exploitation and abuse of women who agree to be surrogates receive no critical attention in media outlets or by government bodies, she said, even when horrors such as death happen. When Brook Brown, a surrogate mother, died along with the twins she was carrying as a result of a pregnancy complication called placental abruption, Lahl wrote the Idaho attorney general's office and the media but received no response. "Brook's body, which had carried her own three children to term and then five surrogate babies, was put at high risk, something her doctors and the fertility industry surely knew," Lahl said. "We have no business ethically, morally, or as a matter of principle building a multi-billion dollar industry on the backs of the health and well-being of women and children." Surrogacy is also increasingly seen as an LGBT rights issue because the practice allows homosexual couples to obtain children. Pushes to legalize the practice in various U.S. states are strongly backed by LGBT rights groups. Critics of the practice from within LGBT ranks are bullied, noted Gary Powell, a British gay rights activist who spoke on the panel Monday. Powell is a member of the Tories, the conservative political party in England and is currently serving as the district councilor in Aylesbury, England. "I don't want my community to be supporting something as harmful and exploitative as surrogacy," Powell remarked, noting that he opposes every form of it. "I also fear that the LGBT community is being used by the surrogacy industry to legitimize its activities in general. Over time, I've become increasingly alienated by the developments in the LBGT rights movement and it now has some campaign objectives such as championing surrogacy and I simply can't support." The contemporary LBGT movement has become authoritarian and its media outlets maintain a hardliner approach, telling gays and lesbians what they have to support, believe and call themselves. Dissenting from the narrative enforced by the LGBT subculture carries steep consequences, even "mobbing," Powell said. "The LGBT media almost always presents surrogacy as a beautiful, harmless and an irreproachable vehicle for gay men to have children," he said, adding that the harms are never considered. "It feels like there's an LGBT Ministry of Truth somewhere that monitors, punishes and eliminates thought crime." When Powell speaks out against the practice he is often called a bigot, homophobe and "Uncle Tom." While not opposed to same-sex parenting per se, he maintained that surrogacy cannot be a "right" for LGBT persons because there is no universal right to be parents and because women are children are commodified and instrumentalized in these arrangements. Praising the Trump administration's call for the decriminalization of homosexuality worldwide, the English activist stressed that the gay rights movement was too important to be tarnished with an association with the campaign to legalize and legitimize surrogacy. The surrogacy agencies stand to benefit significantly from the legalization of the practice, their attorneys and physicians. "There's a ton of money to be made," he added, and it is the LGBT rights movement that is doing the heavy lifting to normalize the practice. Thus, once it is established as a legal right anyone who opposes it is homophobic, he explained. "Like the sale of human organs, it is a practice that should be banned worldwide in all its forms." Melissa Farley, a clinical psychologist and the founder of the San Francisco-based Prostitution Research & Education, noted that several parallels exist between prostitution and surrogacy, particularly how these issues are framed with deceptive language. "Words matter," Farley stressed. "Let's not turn her into the harm that is done to her." "We call her a battered woman, not a batteree. We call her a woman in prostitution, not a prostitute. And she's a birth mother, not a surrogate." Euphemisms, like "sex work" or "compensated dating" when referring to prostitution and "reproductive work" or a "labor of love" in reference to surrogacy, camouflage what are actually human rights violations, she explained. In both contexts, women are described as what is being bought. Among the terms women who participate in surrogacy arrangements are routinely called are: "an incubator," "a suitcase," "a bearer," "an oven" and "a surrogate." "This denies her humanity by commodifying her and ignoring the fact that she is a medical patient with a high-risk pregnancy," Farley asserted. "It's not buying a baby," she said, quoting a surrogacy lawyer. "It's buying a receptacle." A medical article she referenced described a surrogate mother as the "woman attached to the rented womb" and the procured child as "the tenant." "In surrogacy, a woman's self-definition as altruistic and nurturing is exploited for the benefit of others. This is codified in the notion of the contented breeder." Likewise, in prostitution, she continued, a woman's self-definition is similarly exploited and is codified in the idea of a "happy hooker." But both prostitution and surrogacy are sexist institutions where women are bought for either sexual pleasure or reproduction, she stressed. "Women are seen as objects in the marketplace while at the same time that reality is denied and she is said to have made 'a choice' to sell her 'services,' not her body." "The argument goes like this: She's been compensated for her choice to make money by using her body in a way that benefits the womb renters or sex buyers. What is ignored is the context that limits women's options. Women make the choices that are available to them as women in a male-dominated social and economic system," she said, noting that the desires of the sex buyers and purchasing parent are prioritized. She cited the comment of a surrogacy apologist who justifies the practice, saying, "Exploitation should be allowed because the exploitees are better with it than without it." Farley went on to highlight how fertility agencies manipulate public perceptions of the practice to avoid being challenged by feminists who oppose them. The surrogacy operators screen out candidates and require those signing up to become a surrogate to state that they enjoy being pregnant and feel an impulse to help others have a child so as to make it seem like this is an empowering choice for women. But that masks what the agencies are truly all about, she said: making money. "Physicians in surrogacy agencies often do not follow accepted medical guidelines," Farley said, pointing to a 2017 report found that the total number of embryos transferred into wombs of surrogate mothers exceeded those guidelines in the majority of cases. What is also normalized in prostitution and surrogacy is dissociation and disconnection from the body, Farley pointed out, drawing upon her background in psychology. "A split between mind and body is really a necessary part of survival in both situations. An intimate part of a woman's self, her autonomous sexuality, or her intimate connection with a child in a womb are separated from the rest of her being." Such is the message women who are paid to rent out their uteruses internalize, and the grief symptoms the birth mothers experience when they give up the child to the intended parents are immense, she noted. "If you've ever heard cows or sheep after their calves and lambs have been sent to market, then you might have an idea what this grief feels like," Farley said. "Exploiters and predators thrive in the face of indifference and ignorance. The less people know about surrogacy and prostitution, the more that void can be filled with lies." Email Whatsapp Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment There is no question that Christianity presents some startling claims about God, man, and two extreme destinations where human beings exist forever. The fact that these claims are extreme has nothing to do with whether they are true or false. What makes Christianity true is that it is rooted in ultimate reality and absolute truth, rather than in subjective opinions and personal experiences. One would expect that if Christianity is indeed the truth, then those who surrender themselves to its message would begin to experience new life, new motivations, and new perspectives. And this is exactly what has occurred all over the world for the past 2000 years. You see, the essence of Christianity is not: Do morality better. Instead, the essence of Christianity is: Be forgiven of your sins and receive a new heart. Once this new heart is received, the receiver begins to love the Lord and cherish Gods amazing goodness and grace. Without a new heart, no one is capable of loving God and joyfully serving Him. When an atheist starts to become open-minded regarding the historical claims and spiritual promises of Christianity, he finds himself moving into position to transition. After all, it is irrational to ignore the extreme claim of eternal suffering in hell, especially if you have never seriously considered the historical evidence for Christ's resurrection. Once you meet the Lord, you will never again laugh off heaven and hell. And it is critical that you meet the Lord and trust Him as your Savior before you stand in His presence on Judgment Day. For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ. (2 Cor. 5:10) In other words, the day of reckoning is coming, and nothing but the blood of Jesus can wash away your sins. The miracle of conversion happens through faith in Jesus, as you repent of your sin and trust Christ to forgive you. When considering the universe around us, the atheist says, It is lazy for Christians to fall back on the premise that God did it. Christians, meanwhile, have this perspective: It is lazy for atheists to reject the reality of God, while refusing to consider what a new heart could do to change their worldview and their perception of ultimate reality. Every atheist believes there is no God. The Christian looks at this belief and says, It is a lazy approach to discovering ultimate truth. It is a cop-out. Atheism makes an absolute claim about a matter that cannot be proven or disproven scientifically. Therefore, Christians encourage atheists to be rational about the matter. That is to say, be open to the idea that you may be wrong in your absolute position concerning God. Be open to the idea that God could actually give you a new heart if you were to place your faith in the Lord after investigating the evidence for the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. And be open to the idea that it is impossible for science to answer the questions related to the nature of God and the nature of man's immortal soul. Sadly, the atheist lives in a self-imposed prison rooted in fear and superstition. It is reactionary, irrational, and hostile to discovering the truth about Jesus Christ. For example, what is rational about talking yourself out of even considering the extreme eternal destinations of heaven and hell? You can mock these ideas and refuse to even consider them, but you do so to your own peril. How much better it would be to allow yourself to make the transition from atheist to agnostic. Such a transition would begin to unlock the prison doors and allow your soul to be set free, provided you continue to press on beyond the point of merely saying, I dont know whether or not God exists. When compared to the atheist position, the agnostic position allows a person more freedom to consider the evidence for Christianity. It keeps an open mind on the subject and maintains a measure of humility concerning ultimate reality. The atheist, on the other hand, demonstrates no such humility toward ultimate reality. Atheists bury their head in the sand and typically refuse to even consider what a new heart could do to alter their personal worldview. A recent debate between John Lennox and Peter Atkins is a case in point. Few atheists make the leap to Christianity without first rejecting atheism in favor of agnosticism. This rejection of atheism requires a somewhat humble perspective regarding ultimate reality, and a willingness to admit that you may be wrong about Christ and the claims of Scripture. (See my article, "Scientism Stems From a One-Dimensional Worldview.") Christianity is an evidence-based faith. And it makes no sense whatsoever for you to base the eternal well-being of your soul on fear and superstition. You owe it to yourself to check out the claims of Christ, as well as the evidence for the resurrection of Jesus Christ. If you choose to embark on this spiritual journey and consider the historical evidence with an open mind, you may be surprised where the evidence leads you. Either way, you are doing yourself no favor to bury your head in the sand while pretending that Jesus Christ could not possibly have anything to say concerning your life, your death, and the extreme destination that awaits your soul the moment God decides to shut off your oxygen tank so to speak. I encourage you to consider the evidence with an open mind my friend. You were created by God to enjoy a relationship with your Creator, and this satisfying experience will require a new heart. There is no other way to enter a relationship with God except through Christ, who said, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." (John 14:6) You get to choose for yourself whether or not to make the transition from atheist to agnostic, and then from agnostic to Christian. It is not likely to happen overnight, but just remember: You only have so many days and nights left in this life before you will be held accountable by your Creator for what you have done with the claims of Jesus Christ. So choose wisely when deciding what issues to investigate, and what issues to merely shrug off as something that "couldn't possibly be rooted in reality." You will never know ultimate reality until you embrace what God says about life, death, the forgiveness of sins, and the only two eternal destinations available to man and his immortal soul. By the way, here are some other articles I have written that you may find helpful in your quest to base your life upon ultimate reality and absolute truth. "Three Things Atheists and Christians Have in Common" "Does Christianity Produce Agnostics?" "Can Faith Lead to Abiding Certainty?" "Does Christianity Stand on Faith or Evidence?" "40 Questions to Determine the True Religion" "The Messiah's Critics Couldn't Produce His Body" "There Are No Atheists in Hell" "The Mathematical Proof for Christianity Is Irrefutable" 80 percent of persecuted religious believers are Christians: British govt interim report Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment Approximately four of five people persecuted for their religious beliefs are Christians, according to an interim report prepared for the British government. The Rt. Rev. Philip Mounstephen, Anglican bishop of Truro, which is located in the United Kingdom, prepared an interim report focused on persecuted Christians, delivering it to the Foreign & Commonwealth Office last Friday. According to the lengthy interim report, 80 percent of persecuted believers around the world are Christians, with Bishop Mounstephen labeling it an inconvenient truth. In footnote number 344, Mounstephen explained that while the statistic derives from 10-year-old research by the International Society for Human Rights, it remains accurate. Although this figure no longer appears on the ISHR website this is simply because it is now ten years old, wrote Mounstephen in the note. However in private conversation with leading figures in ISHR they stand by the figure and suggest that it is now a conservative estimate. The interim report cited other research, including a Pew Research Center study from 2017 which found that Christians were targeted for their beliefs in 144 countries. Christians have been harassed in more countries than any other religious group and have suffered harassment in many of the heavily Muslim countries of the Middle East and North Africa, stated Pew, as quoted in the interim report. The report went as far as to say that Christian persecution worldwide was not only increasing, but arguably coming close to meeting the international definition of genocide. The eradication of Christians and other minorities on pain of the sword or other violent means was revealed to be the specific and stated objective of extremist groups in Syria, Iraq, Egypt, north-east Nigeria and the Philippines, states the interim report. An intent to erase all evidence of the Christian presence was made plain by the removal of crosses, the destruction of Church buildings and other Church symbols. Mounstephen explained that a final report is expected to be completed sometime in the summer, including detailed information on focus countries where Christians face especially harsh treatment. Over the course of the next two months I will be engaging with FCO Embassies and High Commissions in a discussion about what actions have or have not been taken, he wrote. I will also be considering the role of Ministers and policies at the centre of the FCO. I will consider the role of the FCO in representing the UK with like-minded partners, both in bi-lateral partnerships and within a multi-lateral context. British Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt said in a statement released last Friday that the interim report was a truly sobering read. There is nothing more medieval than to hate someone on the basis of their faith. That it is on the rise should shock us all, stated Hunt. I look forward to seeing the Bishops final report in the summer, and identifying further specific steps the FCO can take to do more to address the fate of persecuted Christians around the world. Evangelical-supported charity looking to secure every vulnerable synagogue in the world Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment An evangelical-backed philanthropic organization has announced an effort to help every vulnerable synagogue in the world protect themselves as extremist attacks against synagogues and other places of worship are becoming all too frequent. The International Fellowship of Christians and Jews is behind the effort to secure synagogues across the globe and is expanding its efforts in response to the shooting at the Chabad of Poway synagogue in California on Passover that killed one woman and injured others. The initiative was launched prior to the outbreak of violence this past weekend between Israel Defense Forces and Palestinian militants (Hamas and Islamic Jihad) that saw over 700 rockets launched into Southern Israel from the Gaza Strip and hundreds of rockets that struck in the Strip. The Fellowship, the largest philanthropic organization in Israel, is no stranger to helping overseas synagogues as its efforts have already bolstered security at hundreds of synagogues throughout 40 countries in Europe, Asia and Latin America. But now the organization is looking to extend its existing program to cover all of the worlds vulnerable synagoguges. As part of the expanded effort, The Fellowship will immediately hone in on synagogues in eights countries in order to provide them with added security measures. We have realized now with the attacks specifically in America, both with the Tree of Life attack [last year in Pittsburgh], where 11 Jewish people were killed in their house of worship and with the recent San Diego attack, we see that it is getting worse, Yael Eckstein, the organizations president, told The Christian Post. Once it gets to America, we know that we have a problem. So if America is vulnerable, just think about how vulnerable the Jewish people in a place like France are or in places where the government doesnt stand for freedom and the government doesnt like Jews. If it can happen in America, just think how much it could happen in locations that are more vulnerable than American Jews. The Fellowship has already planned to provide additional security measures for synagogues in Mexico, Georgia, Germany, Norway, India, Finland, France, Mexico and Thailand. There are eight countries where we know Jewish institutions are being targeted, Eckstein stressed in a phone interview. We are looking at around 40 locations for the immediate [future] within the next month or two. Then we want to extend this to another 350 locations we are praying that we will be able to get to. For some synagogues, they will need to implement basic security measures, Eckstein said, such as installing locks, a special security door, a panic button, window protector or a security camera system. For other synagogues in more vulnerable situations, they will need a bit more intensive security measures, such as installing a compound inspection gate, an entrance security door and the shielding of all windows to protect against bullets. In Thailand, for example, the organization has already provided basic security measures for all the synagogues in the country. Now the organization is working through its partners to employ a national security officer to oversee the threats against Jews for the entire country and establish a global command center to protect all the synagogues. There are so many Jewish people who are traveling and living now in Thailand, Eckstein explained. They are in specific locations making them a real target. God forbid, a terrorist attack could happen there. So we want to have more intensive measures. Another place that is in need of more advanced security measures is a synagogue in Oslo, Norway, she explained. We know that there are a lot of threats against this specific location and the Jewish community is very vulnerable, she said. There had been peace deals that had been signed in Oslo, where a lot of diplomats go. It is just a very high-profile location in regards to Israel. Any high-profile location, there is a significantly higher threat. With The Fellowship already active in helping synagogues in many countries throughout Europe, Eckstein warned of rising antisemitism across the continent. The location that is most urgent and most at risk is France. In France, there is a terrifying rise in antisemitism, she explained. Jews cant walk around looking Jewish. Even the spiritual leaders, the rabbis, are not to wear a traditional skullcap or not to wear any star of David necklaces or wear anything that would identify them as a Jew in public. Eckstein also raised alarm about Germany. The German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier congratulated Irans terrorist regime on the 40th anniversary of the Islamic Revolution. That is Germany, who killed 6 million Jews. They are now congratulating a regime that is trying to wipe Israel off the map. Even in the U.S., the trends are troubling. In America, you have one-third of American millennials that dont believe 6 million Jews were killed in the Holocaust, she said. You have 66 percent of millennials in America who never heard of Auschwitz. A lot of people are saying that the times are reminiscent of the early 1930s before the Holocaust. If you dont remember, then you will get to the same place. She also criticized the blatantly antisemitic cartoon featured in the international edition of The New York Times, which the newspaper apologized for after much criticism. Eckstein said, however, that there are key differences between today and the early 1930s. Among those is the fact that the Jewish people now have the state of Israel to protect them. Additionally, she said, Jews in Israel now have allies in Christians throughout the world thanks to the work her father, Rabbi Yechiel Eckstein, who helped bridge Jewish and Christian communities in the U.S. to support Israel. When Yechiel Eckstein launched The Fellowship in the 1980s, he was ostracized by the Jewish and Christian communities for his efforts to bridge the two communities. But today, Jews in Israel appreciate the effort, she said. Thanks to the financial backing of Christians primarily in the U.S., Eckstein said The Fellowship has built over 5,500 bomb shelters throughout Israel. Over the weekend, hundreds of rockets were launched into Southern Israel from the Gaza Strip. The escalation of violence between IDF and Palestinian militants is reported to be the worst escalation since the 2014 Gaza War. As they are running in their bomb shelters and they are scared and they feel broken, they go into the shelter donated with love from Christians in America who are praying for them, Eckstein said. They realize that they are not alone and that provides so much encouragement and hope that the times have changed. Although a ceasefire has been issued, Eckstein said that the Israeli people are fed up with the cycle of violence followed by ceasefires that are violated. We pray for peace. But this ceasefire agreement, unfortunately, isnt the peace that we have been praying for." Along with its work to secure synagogues, The Fellowship, which is funded largely by evangelical donors, has also worked to provide added security to Christian churches in Egypt. Churches in Egypt have been targeted in the past, resulting in a number of church bombings. For the past two years, The Fellowship has been working to support about 3,000 Christian refugees from Iraq and Syria now living in Jordan with food, medical care and housing. We are raising our voice to get them situated in a permanent situation somewhere in the Western Countries, that America and Europe should give priority to providing refugee status to these Christians who are persecuted before any other populations, Eckstein said. The Fellowship also engages with as many as 6,600 American churches, representing 500,000 people. Iranian intelligence minister concerned with growth of Christianity; converts summoned Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment Irans intelligence minister, Mahmoud Mahmoud Alavi, openly expressed concern last weekend about the spread of Christianity in the Islamic republic and said that some converts to Christianity were summoned to explain why they have converted. The 65-year-old Alavi gave a speech before Shia clerics on Saturday, the day before the beginning of Ramadan. According to the International Shia News Association, Alavi blamed evangelical propaganda as being complicit to the increase in Iranian Muslims converting to Christianity in certain areas of the country. Despite Christianity being criminalized in a country where the government is entangled with hardline Islam, the nation is experiencing one of the fastest evolving underground church movements in the world. According to Radio Farda, Alavi told the clerics that the Intelligence Ministry and Qom Seminary, the countrys largest Islamic seminary, have dispatched individuals and institutions that are active in "countering the advocates of Christianity" to areas where Muslims are being converted. "People tend to become Christians who are ordinary people of the community, for example, their sandwich shops and the like, and they became a Christian family, he was quoted as saying. Alavi also said that in a city like Hamadan province in northwestern Iran, the government was given no choice but to summon Muslim converts to Christianity to ask why they have embraced the religion over Islam. Some of them said that we were seeking a religion that would calm us and establish ourselves with us and brotherhood, Alavi was quoted as saying. We told them that Islam is a religion of brotherhood. They said that we see that the scholars of Islam and those who talk behind the podium talk continuously against each other, if Islam is a religion of [peace], then first of all, one must create [peace] between his scholars. The intelligence minister reportedly said that although the agency is not responsible for finding the root cause of the mass religious conversion to Christianity in Iran, it is happening right before our eyes. Radio Farda, the Iranian affiliate of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, surmises that the converts who spoke with the intelligence ministry must have been referring to ongoing disputes between Irans ruling clerics. Underground house churches continue to spring up across Iran, although they must do so in secrecy because they risk torture and imprisonment in the Islamic republic. Believers can be arrested for preaching the Gospel or having a copy of the Bible translated into Farsi. Although it's hard to get an accurate read on how many Christians are in Iran, estimates have ranged from 800,000 to over 1 million. Open Doors USA, an organization that operates in dozens of countries to help the persecuted church, reports that converts to Christianity bear the brunt of the Christian persecution in Iran by the government or their own family members. The government sees them as an attempt by Western countries to undermine Islam and the Islamic regime of Iran, an Open Doors fact sheet reads. Many Christians (especially converts) have been prosecuted and sentenced to long terms in jail. Others are still awaiting trial. During this time, their families face public humiliation. Open Doors notes that several house churches were razed during the 2019 World Watch List reporting period, including instances in which entire congregations have been arrested. Most are no longer functioning as house churches, Open Doors explains. Iran is designated by the U.S. State Department as a country of particular concern for systematic, ongoing, [and] egregious violations of religious freedom. Open Doors ranks Iran as the 9th worst country in the world when it comes to the persecution of Christians on its 2019 World Watch List. Jean Vanier, Christian advocate for the intellectually disabled, dies at age 90 Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment Jean Vanier, the Catholic founder of two community organizations for those with intellectual disabilities, has passed away in Paris, France. He was 90 years old. L'Arche Internationale, one of the two networks Vanier helped found to benefit those with special needs, announced his death early Tuesday morning on their Facebook page. We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Jean Vanier. He passed away peacefully today Tuesday, May 7 at 2:10 am in Paris surrounded by some relatives, noted the organization. In a statement, L'Arche noted that days before his death, Vanier reported that he was deeply peaceful and trustful. Im not sure what the future will be but God is good and whatever happens it will be the best. I am happy and give thanks for everything. My deepest love to each one of you, said Vanier in his last message to supporters. Born in Geneva, Switzerland in 1928, Vanier was the son of a Canadian diplomat. In his youth, he served in both the British and Canadian Royal navies until 1950. Vanier studied philosophy and taught the subject in Toronto. He seriously considered becoming a Catholic priest, though eventually decided not to. In the early 1960s, when visiting a Dominican chaplain in France, Vanier witnessed the poor conditions for the intellectually disabled in the asylums. In 1964, Vanier invited two disabled men, Raphael Simi and Philippe Seux, to live with him in in Trosly-Breuil, France rather than remain in a French institution. There, in that small home in Trosly-Breuil, Vaniers initial urge to do something for Raphael and Philippe grew to become a commitment to being with and friend to these two men, noted LArche USA. With that shift in heart and consciousness, a core belief of LArche emerged: that strength is revealed through weakness and human vulnerability, which given room to grow in trust, creates community. Taking its name from Noahs Ark, LArche grew to include 154 communities in 38 different countries. Faith and Light, another community-based support network for the disabled that Vanier founded, has 1,450 chapters in more than 80 countries. The secret of LArche is relationship, explained Vanier, meeting people, not through the filters of certitudes, ideologies, idealism or judgments, but heart to heart; listening to people with their pain, their joy, their hope, their history, listening to their heart beats. In 2015, Vanier won the Templeton Prize, an award given to those who have made an important contribution to the spiritual dimension of life through various works. Other Templeton Prize winners include King Abdullah II of Jordan, Archbishop Desmond Tutu, the Dalai Lama, Charles Colson, and the Rev. Billy Graham. When those ingrained in a culture of winning and of individual success really meet them, and enter into friendship with them, something amazing and wonderful happens, stated Vanier at a news conference regarding the Prize, as reported by the Washington Post. They too are opened up to love and even to God. They are changed at a very deep level. They are transformed and become more fundamentally human. Other honors bestowed upon Vanier include the French Legion of Honor, the Rabbi Gunther Plaut Humanitarian Award, and the Blessed are the Peacemakers Award from the Chicago Catholic Theological Union. Vanier authored many books, including the popular Becoming Human, which was republished on its 10th anniversary in 2008. Church of England response to child sexual abuse 'marked by secrecy' The Church of England's handling of "appalling" child sexual abuse was "marked by secrecy" and put the reputation of clergy before the interests of victims, a report has found. The Independent Inquiry into Child Sex Abuse focused on former bishop Peter Ball, who was convicted in 2015 for offences against 18 teenagers and men spanning from the 1970s to 1990s, and the response of the Diocese of Chichester to child sexual abuse claims. The report criticised former Archbishop of Canterbury George Carey's response but said overall that the Church of England's handling of abuse cases was "inadequate" and that some senior clergy had demonstrated "deep-seated arrogance". Church leaders were also accused of perpetuating an "avoidance of reporting alleged crimes to the authorities and a failure to take professional advice". "The question remains why the Church's responses to sexual abuse in Chichester, including the Peter Ball case, were so inadequate," the report reads. "They had devastating consequences for the children and young people who were affected. There are some reasons already well known to this Inquiry from other investigations, principally concerning the prioritisation of reputation over the protection of children." Regarding the actions of senior clergy, the report said that they "believed that they were right in their indulgent attitude towards some perpetrators, even when they had been convicted". The report also calls actions by the Prince of Wales in support of Ball "misguided". Professor Alexis Jay, Chair of the Inquiry, said: "For years, the Diocese of Chichester failed victims and survivors of child sexual abuse by prioritising its own reputation above their welfare. "Not only were disclosures of abuse handled inadequately by the Church when they came to light, its response was marked by secrecy and a disregard for the seriousness of abuse allegations. "Peter Ball is one example of how a senior member of the clergy was able to sexually abuse vulnerable teenagers and young men for decades. The public support he received is reflective of the Church's culture at the time; a support that was rarely extended to his victims." Responding to the report, the Church of England said that the findings would be studied in detail and a full response released at a later date. Statement in full from Peter Hancock, the Bishop of Bath and Wells and the Church's leading bishop for safeguarding: "We thank the Inquiry for the report and note the findings and recommendations which we will now study in full. The report states that the Church of England should have been a place which protected all children and supported victims and survivors and the Inquiry's summary recognises that it failed to do this. It is absolutely right that the Church at all levels should learn lessons from the issues raised in this report. "Whilst the report acknowledges the progress the Church has made in safeguarding, we recognise that our work must continue at pace in order that we can ensure that the Church is as safe as possible for all. "We are committed to working to bring in specific changes that will help us better protect children and vulnerable adults from sexual and all other forms of abuse. If anyone is affected by today's report I would urge them to come forward. Details of how to do this can be found on the Church of England website. "We are immensely grateful to survivors for their courage in coming forward to IICSA to share their experiences of how they were treated by the Church, knowing how difficult this would have been; their testimonies have made shocking and uncomfortable listening. "Since the Archbishop of Canterbury asked for the Church of England to be investigated by IICSA as a matter of priority, we have sought to help the Inquiry in every way that we can and we will now fully consider the report." The Diocese of Chichester's statement in full: "We welcome the publication of the IICSA report on the diocese of Chichester. We take this report very seriously and will now take time to assimilate and digest its detailed findings. "We are deeply ashamed of the obvious failures outlined in it and apologise unreservedly for the terrible damage that has been done to people's lives in so many ways. "We are committed to doing all we can to ensure safety and respect for all vulnerable people, especially children, in our churches and church institutions and organisations. "Although we are encouraged by the acknowledgement from IICSA of the progressive work the diocese has undertaking over the past few years to improve our safeguarding practices, we must never be complacent. We will continue to work on the development of a different culture in safeguarding, in our accountability, and in ensuring that we always respond appropriately and well to any allegation or report of abuse." Have we lost the true meaning of discipleship? I have a nagging doubt that just won't shift. It comes to me at church during the singing. It haunts me on my commute to work. It bothers me when I am sitting at my desk and it visits me when I am stuck in those long boring meetings that seem to be part of every job I have ever had. I can't help thinking that what we call discipleship isn't quite what Jesus had in mind. What we have settled for in our pursuit of God doesn't seem to match God's expectations of us. Have we found a way to neatly box up our faith so that it fits into modern life and doesn't disturb our plans too much? Have we processed our faith so it can be snuck into our college dorm or our office? Have we organised it so it can be fitted around our Netflix addiction and our Spotify habit? Have we fixed it so it can be accommodated around our busy schedules and lifestyle choices? And have we, by making our faith so efficient, so domesticated, also made our faith ineffective and tame? What if a 'neat and tidy' Christianity may well be the reason why we often become bored of church, and feel dissatisfied with our lives and disconnected and distant from God? In order to find out answers to my nagging questions, I went on a global journey to track down experts in discipleship who could help me get back to discover what it means to follow Christ in the 21 st century. I wanted authentic Christianity, I wanted to learn about whole hearted discipleship. I spoke to well known Christian leaders like Professor NT Wright, Andy Crouch and Jo Saxton but also to Christians you may never have heard of but who are quietly getting on with radical obedience to Christ. My journey took me to Hells Kitchen in New York, the Royal Albert Hall in London, an echoey service corridor in Nashville, to Wall Street and to the scene of a recent stabbing of a young boy because another teenager wanted to steal his bike. I spoke with artists, activists, researchers, theologians, entrepreneurs, and politicians. Their answers were to offer me a change in understanding and practice of discipleship what I am calling a 'discipleshift'. This podcast follows my journey and my prayer is that it will help and inspire you to more authentically follow Christ in our increasingly complex world. The podcast explores issues rarely spoken about in church, it connects the dots between discipleship and areas of our lives that infrequently receive attention. If you have ideas for topics for future episodes or for people you think we need to speak with drop us a line. In the meantime, listen here and share your thoughts with me on Twitter at @krishk https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/discipleshift-with-jo-saxton/id1462473721?i=1000437162147 https://soundcloud.com/discipleshift/discipleshift-with-jo-saxton Pastor, church members and Christian relief worker kidnapped in Nigeria A group of Christians, including a church pastor, are missing after being kidnapped in Nigeria by suspected Boko Haram militants while on their way to deliver aid. Rabiu Aminu, the Borno State Coordinator for the National Youth Service Corps, said that corps member Abraham Amuta was kidnapped alongside Pastor Oyeleke and several members of Living Faith Church while they were on their way to north-east Borno State, reports the News Agency of Nigeria. The kidnapping happened as they travelled from Maiduguri, the capital of Borno state and a hotbed of Boko Haram activity, to Chibok, where in 2014 the terrorist group kidnapped nearly 300 schoolgirls, many of whom are still missing. "The church claimed that the corps member was abducted alongside his pastor," Aminu said. "We visited the Church, and the Commissioner of Police called us on Friday over the incident and assured us of their total support to address the situation." Amuta's housemate, Success Ezeanya, called for prayers for his friend's safe return on Twitter. "He went for evangelism with a pastor from his church Living Faith," he said. "He is an only son. Let's not forget him in our prayers." Ezeanya told The Punch that the kidnappers were demanding a ransom equivalent to over half a million dollars for the release of the group. It is unclear how many members of Living Faith Church were kidnapped. Nigeria is ranked 12th on the Open Doors list of world's worst countries for persecution. Thousands of people have died as a result of the Boko Haram insurgency as the group has often targeted Christians. Persecution of Christians is 'close to our hearts', says Jeremy Hunt British Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt has affirmed the UK's commitment to addressing the persecution of Christians following a meeting of faith leaders at the official residence of the Archbishop of Canterbury on Wednesday. Mr Hunt was joined by US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo at the meeting of faith leaders, which included representatives of the Jewish and Muslim communities. The meeting was held to discuss ways to protect Christians being persecuted for their beliefs and uphold the religious freedom of all people of faith. "This is an issue close to both our hearts. The recent atrocities in New Zealand and Sri Lanka remind us just why," he said. The meeting was held on the same day as it was announced that Christian mother Asia Bibi had been able to leave Pakistan several months after being freed from death row for blasphemy. Her arrival in Canada, where she and her family have been granted asylum, brings to an end a 10-year ordeal that started when she was accused of blasphemy after sharing a drinking cup with Muslim colleagues on the fruit farm where she worked. After the Supreme Court acquitted her last October, the UK came under pressure to grant Mrs Bibi and her family asylum. In the end, it was Canada that stepped forward with an offer. Mr Hunt said her arrival in Canada was a "glimmer of light". "I welcome the government of Pakistan's commitment to uphold the rule of law following the decision of its Supreme Court to confirm her acquittal," he said. "Britain's primary concern has always been the safety of Asia Bibi and her family; we have been in contact with our partners to help ensure that she gets the freedom and security she deserves." The Archbishop of Canterbury, the Most Rev Justin Welby, said at the meeting that two areas of concern were the impact of military interventions on Christian communities and relations with countries where Christians are being persecuted. "We have valid and essential foreign policy links around the world. But as you know better than I do, in some of them freedom of religion and belief is not accepted," he said in an address. "We would like to encourage that, while being culturally sensitive, to say that freedom to worship is an essential part of being a human being." He continued: "Secondly, that where the interests of minorities are concerned, foreign interventions can often have very serious long term [impacts], as we've seen with the collapse of the Christian population in some parts of the Middle East," he said. UN steps in to stop French disabled man being dehydrated to death A UN committee has intervened to stop a disabled man in France from being starved and dehydrated to death. Vincent Lambert, 42, has been disabled and in a state of minimal consciousness after sustaining severe brain damage in a motorcycle accident in 2008, although his carers say he is still able to breathe on his own, as well as turn his head and move his eyes. His family have been divided over his care, with his wife, nephew and five of his siblings favouring the withdrawal of his nutrition and hydration, a move that has the support of his doctors. His parents and two other siblings have fought against this in the courts for the last six years. On April 24, the Conseil d'Etat, the highest administrative court in France, ruled that the medical decision to withdraw Mr Lambert's hydration and nutrition until his death was not illegal. This ruling was backed days later by the European Court of Human Rights, which turned down appeals on behalf of Vincent's life for the second time after having previously done so in 2015. However, the UN Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities has stepped in to the row by launching its own investigation. It has ordered France to ensure the nutrition and hydration of Mr Lambert during the review process. French Health Minister Agnes Buzyn said that although the UN's request was not legally binding, France would honour it. Dr Anthony McCarthy, of the Society for the Protection of Unborn Children, said that the withdrawal of food and water went against the principles of basic care for disabled and vulnerable people. He said the case also raised a number of concerns. "Firstly, such conditions are notoriously difficult to diagnose, as a recent literature review has found," he said. "Secondly, if the aim in withdrawing food and fluids is to eliminate a life no longer considered worthy to continue, there is no moral difference between such 'passive' non-voluntary euthanasia and 'active' non-voluntary euthanasia by, for example, lethal injection. He continued: "No-one is claiming that every conceivable means must be taken to sustain a patient's life. But nutrition and hydration delivered by tube, which is still sustaining the patient and is not unduly burdensome, is basic care, not extraordinary medical means. "Where is the 'disproportionate' burden here, including for the patient, who is supposedly unconscious? Is the aim not rather simply to dehydrate to death someone whose life is not considered to have value?" He added: "It is shocking that the case has had to be taken to such levels. I hope that the UN Committee stands against this attack on the dignity of patients which undermines us all." The Apple-1 the birth of the Apple empire Fewer than half of the 200 Apple-1s ever made have survived. In our online sale (16-23 May), we offer a rare example of the first personal computer sold with a fully assembled motherboard, an invention that launched the Apple empire It's odds on that the screen you are reading this on was bought as part of the computer/hand-held device you are using, but in the dawn of home computing this wasnt always so. In 1976, when personal computing was very much the domain of hobbyists, all of the individual components of a computer would have been bought separately. But that was about to change. Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak were working out of Jobss garage and had the idea to produce the first personal computer sold with a fully assembled motherboard. The Apple-1 systems were still sold without casing, power supply, keyboard or monitor, but offering a pre-assembled motherboard was something that put Apple far ahead of its competitors. This Apple-1 personal computer is housed in a briefcase. The keyboard lifted to show the mainboard fixed into place An early uptake was from Paul Terrell, owner of The Byte Shop in California, who in 1976 ordered 50 machines at $500 each. After securing that initial order, Jobs and Wozniak scrambled to find cash for the necessary parts. Jobs sold his VW, his only mode of transportation, and Wozniak his HP-65 calculator to finance their operation. An Apple-1 personal computer, Palo Alto, 1976, housed in a briefcase (44.5 x 37 x 10 cm). The motherboard labelled Apple Computer 1 Palo Alto Ca. Copyright 1976 on obverse with four rows A-D, and columns 1-18, white ceramic MOS Technologies 6502 microprocessor, 8K bytes RAM in 16-pin 4K memory chips; modified cassette interface card; Datanetics keyboard supported on aluminium; green Preliminary BASIC Operation Manual. Estimate: 300,000-500,000. Offered in On the Shoulders of Giants: Making the Modern World, 16-23 May, Online In all, about 200 Apple-1s were made, and advertised at $666.66, a price which dropped to $475 in 1977. By the end of that year the Apple-II (first introduced on 10 June 1977) had taken over, and the Apple-1 was no longer offered for sale. This lot includes an Apple photo slide (right, in box) of the original Apple logo that was created and drawn by Apple co-founder Ronald G. Wayne after Apple was incorporated on January 3, 1977; and a pristine, working Panasonic RQ-309DS Cassette Tape Recorder for the Apple-1 Also included with this lot are Ronald G. Waynes personal photocopy of the Partnership Agreement with Jobs and Wozniak; an April 1977 Apple Dealer Inquiry letter from the VP of Marketing, Mike Markkula, who later became Apples second CEO. The letter shows the transition from Apple-1 to Apple-II; original magazine articles about the Apple-1; advertisements and documents relating to the Apple-1 Owners Club After Jobs and Wozniak officially discontinued the Apple-1 in October 1977, they offered discounts and trade-ins to encourage all Apple-1 owners to return their machines. These were destroyed, and fewer than half of the Apple-1s survived. What had begun as the attempt by two techie friends to design and build a microprocessor became the first personal computer and launched Apple Computer Company, later Apple Inc., the perennially pioneering company that defined and redefined its industry and changed the lives of its millions of customers to become one of the worlds largest corporations. Fifteen examples of the Apple-1 exist in public collections worldwide, including the Smithsonian Museum of Art. A rare example of the Apple-1 is offered in On the Shoulders of Giants: Making the Modern World, an online sale that runs from 16-23 May. Sign up today Christie's Online Magazine delivers our best features, videos, and auction news to your inbox every week Subscribe Little Electric Chair the defining image of Andy Warhols Death and Disasters series In this iconic, haunting image painted in 1964-65, Warhol reveals the underside of Americas consumerist and capitalist culture. It sold for $8,220,000 on 15 May in New York A chilling portrait of one of Americas most infamous inventions, Little Electric Chair is the defining image of Andy Warhols Death and Disasters series, a seminal body of work that saw the artist penetrate the shining veneer of post-war American life and reveal the darker realities that lay beneath. The sinister spectacle of the electric chair, alone save for the SILENCE sign that emerges from the darkness of the door, is bathed in a soft shade of flesh-toned pink, a colour unique to this group of works that was executed in late 1964-1965. The idea for the Death and Disasters series came about in June 1962 when the curator Henry Geldzahler presented a copy of the days newspaper to Warhol over lunch. The headline on the front page screamed 129 DIE IN JET. I wanted Andy to get serious, Geldzahler recalled. I said, It is enough life. It is time for a little death. Soon after, Warhol transferred the image of the plane wreckage onto canvas, the headline announcing the theme that would preoccupy the artist for the following years. He was also painting the Marilyns at the time. I realised that everything I was doing must have been Death, he later reflected. Every time you turned on the radio they said something like, Four million are going to die. That started it. Electric Chair is filled with a chilling sense of foreboding. The real terror is left unseen, making it all the more horrifying Over the next two years, Warhol explored the theme of death through a variety of subjects, creating a powerful body of work that was intended for an exhibition at the Sonnabend Gallery in Paris in the spring of 1964. It was to be the first presentation of his art in Europe, a show he planned to title Death in America. Believing that the French intelligentsia would scorn his Pop depictions of consumerist icons, Warhol chose instead to present the dark realities of everyday life in 1960s America. In contrast to the cool commercialism of his Coca Cola bottles and Campbells soup cans, Warhols depictions of suburban car crashes, people jumping to their deaths from skyscrapers, the atomic bomb, race riots in the Deep South and more revealed the underside of his countrys consumerist and capitalist culture. The most disturbing, provocative and sinister of this series, the Electric Chairs serve as the quintessential symbols of the group. Death by electrocution was at the forefront of peoples minds when Warhol began the group in early 1963. The source image was a press photograph from January 1953 that showed the electric chair, known as Old Sparky, at Sing Sing State Penitentiary in Ossining, New York. It was here that Julius and Ethel Rosenberg, the couple convicted of Soviet espionage, were executed a few months later. Andy Warhol (1928-1987), Little Electric Chair, painted in 1964-1965. Acrylic and silkscreen ink on linen. 22 x 28 in (55.9 x 71.1 cm). Sold for $8,220,000 in Post-War and Contemporary Art Evening Sale on 15 May 2019 at Christies in New York. Artwork: 2019 The Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts, Inc. / Licensed by Artists Rights Society (ARS) It is no coincidence that in 1964-65 when Warhol painted this work which comes from The Collection of S.I. Newhouse the issue of capital punishment had come to the fore once again. Protest against the death penalty was at an all-time high. In New York, the electric chair in Sing Sing was used for the final times in March and August of 1963, before being finally outlawed two years later. Taking this press photograph, which was already highly contrasted to increase its legibility for media dissemination, Warhol applied a single layer of monochrome colour before printing the silkscreen. For this group of Little Electric Chairs, the artist used a range of colours from garish cadmium yellow and orange, to sugary lavenders and pinks to create a disturbing contrast with the sinister subject matter printed on top. The rare, soft pink of the work offered in New York, which has previously been exhibited as The Pink Chair, is in fact a very light shade of indo orange red. Warhols depersonalised mode of production and the repetition of the same image throughout the series would seem to affirm his statement about seeing a gruesome picture over and over again, and it losing its effect. The result of these works is in fact the opposite: it is the seeming indifference to the meaning of this image that paradoxically heightens the quiet horror it exudes. Sign up today Christie's Online Magazine delivers our best features, videos, and auction news to your inbox every week Subscribe A pioneering pursuit of the new The Robert B. and Beatrice C. Mayer Family Collection Extraordinary works by Robert Rauschenberg, Roy Lichtenstein and Andy Warhol head one of the strongest selections of Pop art ever presented on the auction market Robert B. Bob Mayer and his wife, Beatrice Buddy Cummings Mayer, were hugely influential figures in the development of contemporary art. I collect because I believe that I am building for posterity, Bob Mayer once declared. I collect because I believe it adds dimension and perspective to my way of life... I collect for the thrill of discovery. The collection will be offered across several auctions commencing with Christies 20th Century Week this Spring and will include a dedicated selection of 11 lots which will lead directly into the Post-War and Contemporary Art Evening Sale. Further lots from the collection, which was assembled over more than 25 years and also includes European painting and sculpture, Chinese ceramics, and African and Oceanic figures, will be offered over the course of 2019. Bob and Buddy created a lasting legacy in art. Through their patronage of emerging artists, they helped to secure the success of some of the 20th centurys most important figures, and in seeking to share their collection with others, they became an inspiration to succeeding generations. Their collection is comprised of works that speak to their extraordinary taste, and their keen desire to embrace and facilitate change, both in the art world, and within the socio-economic climate of their community in Chicago, says Sara Friedlander, International Director, Head of Department, Post-War and Contemporary Art at Christies in New York. Highlights from the collection Completed and acquired shortly after the assassination of John F. Kennedy, Robert Rauschenbergs Buffalo II is an extraordinary representation of post-war America, a moment in which the country was rapidly evolving and the art that was being produced challenged preconceived notions of what fine art was and could be. Robert Rauschenberg (1925-2008), Buffalo II, 1964. Oil and silkscreen ink on canvas. 96 x 72 in (243.8 x 183.8 cm). Estimate on request. Offered in the Post-War and Contemporary Art Evening Sale on 15 May at Christies in New York 2019 Robert Rauschenberg Foundation / Licensed by VAGA at Artists Rights Society (ARS), New York At more than eight feet high, this imposing canvas is dominated by a large photograph of the then Senator John F. Kennedy, around which Rauschenberg assembles an eclectic range of motifs that, for him, define America the space race, the military, iconic consumer products and patriotic symbols are interspersed with more innocuous images of the urban landscape and personal objects. A pioneer of the silkscreen technique (along with Andy Warhol, who had begun using the technique just a couple of months earlier), Rauschenberg appropriates images he collected from newspapers and magazines along with his own photographs to produce a portrait of a country in the midst of social and political upheaval. The painting also marks a pivotal point in Rauschenbergs development as an artist. By bringing together pre-existing images from popular culture with an array of drips and painterly gestures, Buffalo II acts as a bridge between the now declining dominance of Abstract Expressionism and the new burgeoning world of Pop. Exhibited at the XXXII Venice Biennale in 1964, Buffalo II was part of a group exhibition of young American painters for which Rauschenberg was awarded the coveted International Grand Prize in Painting. Roy Lichtenstein (1923-1997), Kiss III, 1962. Magna on canvas. 64 x 48 in (162.6 x 121.9 cm). Estimate on request. Offered in the Post-War and Contemporary Art Evening Sale on 15 May at Christies in New York Estate of Roy Lichtenstein Another major highlight offered from The Robert B. and Beatrice C. Mayer Family Collection is Kiss III (1962), a pivotal canvas from one of Roy Lichtensteins most acclaimed bodies of work which was painted in the same year as the artists inaugural solo exhibition at the legendary Leo Castelli Gallery in New York. In 1961, Lichtenstein had broken with his earlier practice and begun to reproduce the visual qualities of printed ephemera. Among his subjects were works based on advertisements and comics that featured war stories and romantic themes, of which Kiss III is a prime example. Andy Warhols Liz [Early Colored Liz] is a unique painting from a group of 13 colourful portraits of the actress that Warhol executed in late 1963. Although Warhol employed the mass-media technique of screen printing, he brought a high level of personal involvement to the Liz series, carefully embellishing her skin, eyes and make-up with hand-applied paint. Andy Warhol (1928-1987), Liz [Early Colored Liz], painted in 1963. Synthetic polymer and silkscreen ink on canvas. 40 x 40 in (101.3 x 101.3 cm). Estimate: $20,000,000-30,000,000. This lot is offered in Post-War and Contemporary Art Evening Sale on 15 May 2019 at Christies in New York 2019 The Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts, Inc. / Licensed by Artists Rights Society (ARS) Robert and Beatrice Mayer After graduating from the University of Chicago in 1931, Bob Mayer began work at the Chicago department store owned by his uncle, Maurice Rothschild. He started out sweeping the floors but was soon promoted to sales, and rose through the ranks of Maurice L. Rothschild & Co. before eventually being named president of the firm in 1957. In 1942, Mayer was enlisted in the U.S. Army. His experience in Europe during the Second World War was punctuated by a remarkable exploration of European art and artists. He found solace from the ongoing conflict by acquiring examples of art from across the ages, including works that he purchased directly from Pablo Picasso and Henri Matisse while on leave in the south of France. The collectors return to America heralded the beginning of another great life journey, following a blind date with the Montreal-born Beatrice Buddy Cummings, the daughter of the food entrepreneur Nathan Cummings, founder of what became the Sara Lee Corporation. It was the start of a devoted partnership that lasted nearly 30 years, until Bob Mayers untimely passing in 1974. Buddy Mayer was a practical, straightforward woman with a sharp wit and a dedication to family. During the Second World War she had volunteered with the Red Cross Home Service Program and tended to the families of service members in some of Chicagos poorest neighbourhoods. Throughout her life, she earned a reputation as a woman committed to empowerment. Like many collectors of the era, the Mayers initially focused on acquiring classic Impressionist and European Modernist works. By the late 1950s, Bob and Buddy had assembled a collection that spanned European painting and sculpture, Chinese ceramics, and African and Oceanic figures. Yet, as Buddy later noted, By the early 1960s, Impressionism had outpaced our pocketbooks. It was a realisation that prompted the couple to look towards the art of the present day. As active, engaged members of their community, the Mayers foresaw vast changes occurring in art, particularly in the United States. The Collection elevated contemporary art in Chicago at a time when the citys exposure to current trends was limited Marla Hand What followed in 1960 was the Mayers first substantive acquisition of Contemporary art: Larry Rivers The Last Civil War Veteran, 1959-1960, a painting merging Abstract Expressionism and the nascent Pop movement within a uniquely American tableau. Within a few years, Bob and Buddy would establish themselves among the earliest proponents of Pop art. Attuned to the eras turbulent political and social landscape, the Mayers actively sought out opportunities to make a difference. Buddy Mayer travelled from Chicago to Mississippi in support of the Civil Rights Movement, sleeping in the home of a local agricultural worker and tutoring children on African-American art and artists. In 1965, her husband purchased Robert Indianas The Confederacy: Mississippi at an auction to benefit the Coalition for Racial Equality. As the Mayers expanded their collection, they began to recognise the effects of their efforts. The Collections curator, Marla Hand, observed that it elevated contemporary art in Chicago at a time when the citys exposure to current trends was limited. Sign up today Christie's Online Magazine delivers our best features, videos, and auction news to your inbox every week Subscribe The tiny South American nation of Guyana is making its first major foray into Houston, sending a delegation to the Offshore Technology Conference and holding a downtown forum to find partners as it develops its offshore oil fields. Exxon Mobil and its New York partner Hess Corp. already have made 13 major oil discoveries off the coast of Guyana in the last four years, pumping billions of dollars into new projects with initial oil production coming online in early 2020. Outside of West Texas Permian Basin, Exxon is investing more in Guyana than anywhere else in the world. A rural, rain-forested nation with a population of more than 700,000 versus 7 million just in metro Houston the political and business leaders have suddenly had to learn about the oil industry after never having had much petroleum business at all. The country will hold the inaugural Guyana Petroleum Summit on Thursday in downtown Houston. NEW HQ: Libya, on brink of civil war, opens Houston oil HQ Its a very, very fast learning curve from not knowing anything about oil and gas to having to do it, said Owen Verwey, chief executive of the Guyana Office for Investment, the governments economic development arm. This is like dropping someone in the ocean who doesnt know how to swim. Guyanas government has placed its emphasis on forming partnerships and ensuring that Guyana captures the financial windfall to support long-term economic growth, Verwey said. They dont want the big oil companies to just come in, reap their profits, and leave with Guyana having little to show for it. Touting the idea of Guyana as the new oil and gas frontier, officials see opportunities for Houston energy services companies from drillers to parts manufacturers to come do business in Guyana, partner with local companies and hire local Guyana workers. Theres enough opportunity for everyone to make money, said Nicholas Deygoo, president of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Guyanas capital city, Georgetown. Deepwater potential The energy is really positive, Deygoo said. Were going to see a lot more business between your city here in Houston and with our country. Nearly half of the Guyana population lives in the greater Georgetown area. Most of the country is unpopulated, occupied by dense rain forests, savannahs and mountains. But its Guyanas deepwater oil potential thats attracting all the attention. Guyana is a smaller, poorer nation with stark divides between wealth and poverty. Per capita gross domestic product was abut $8,000 in 2017, compared to about $60,000 in the United States, according to the CIAs World Factbook. Thursdays Guyana conference will feature energy services companies ranging from Houston-based Tidewater, which operates a fleet of offshore services vessels, to the worlds largest services firm, Schlumberger, which has a principal office in Houston. Last week, Exxon Mobil announced it is authorizing the $6 billion second phase of its massive Guyana development. GREENLIT: Exxon Mobil authorizes $6B Guyana development With the Liza Phase 2 project now approved the first phase is whats coming online in early 2020 Exxon Mobil now expects to produce more than 750,000 barrels of oil a day offshore of Guyana by 2025. That's equal to nearly 20 percent of Exxon's global oil and gas production today. The developments are in what's known as the Stabroek Block, a potentially prolific oil field spanning 6.6 million acres. Stabroek was the name of Georgetown prior to 1812, when the British changed the name after taking control from the Dutch, who were the first colonizers of Guyana. The country gained its independence from the United Kingdom in 1966 and became a republic in 1970. With the government of Guyana and our partners, Exxon Mobil is bringing industry-leading upstream capabilities to build upon Phase 1 and further develop the shared value of Guyanas resources, said Liam Mallon, president of Exxon upstream oil and gas. Political challenges Exxon Mobil said it aims to keep its good will intact. But as in many developing countries, the company needs to navigate political challenges. Guyana is dealing a recent vote of no confidence in the countrys president and prime minister by its parliament, called the National Assembly. The matter is playing out in courts. Government officials and business leaders in Guyana are optimistic those internal political complications wont hamper the growth. Thats where visits to Houston are expected to help. I think were off to a really excellent start, Verwey said. Loop Images/UIG via Getty Images Real estate startups changing the way homes are bought and sold rely on technology to make the process more efficient. But while some of them hire tech workers in San Francisco, they often operate out of Texas and other Sunbelt states. Entera, which makes it easy for investors to buy in bulk, is based out of Houston. Door, which charges a flat fee to list a home, operates out of Dallas. And Jovio, which charges a third of the traditional listing fee, calls Austin home. Giant hedge funds specializing in buying single-family homes to turn into rentals are also often based in the region -- Invitation Homes, which owned more than 80,000 homes across the country at the end of 2018, is based in Dallas. A former Houston caretaker is accused of severely injuring an elderly woman inside an Atascocita assisted living facility, police say. Katiuscia Martinez, 43, is allegedly seen on surveillance video pushing an 88-year-old woman to the ground while the woman was eating inside the Autumn Grove Cottage in the 5500 block of Atascocita Boulevard on Monday. Harris County Precinct 4 Constable Mark Herman said the woman suffered a head injury and was treated on scene. "The video really makes me mad," Herman said. "You see a bunch of elderly people eating in a lunchroom setting, and the person who actually works at the facility walks up to this 88-year-old female and basically forces her out of a chair, stands her up, and at some point, she ends up pushing the 88-year-old to the ground backwards." The woman suffers from dementia, Herman said, indicating that she may have not remembered the alleged attack happened at all. When confronted by managers at the facility, Martinez allegedly denied having assaulted the woman, claiming she fell on her own, according to court documents. "The video doesn't lie," Herman said. "It is what it is." The woman was swiftly fired from Autumn Grove Cottage, Herman said. He commended their response and cooperation. The facility did not respond to a request for comment. Martinez was charged with second-degree felony injury to the elderly, which carries a maximum 20-year prison sentence, if she's convicted. Jay R. Jordan covers breaking news in the Houston area. Read him on our breaking news site, Chron.com, and our subscriber site, HoustonChronicle.com | Follow him on Twitter at @JayRJordan | Email him at jay.jordan@chron.com | Text CHRON to 77453 to receive breaking news alerts by text message The digital revolution is well underway in the oil and gas industry. While it began slowly as a means to survive the low oil prices of 2016, the push toward digitization has flourished more recently as oil and gas companies despite stabilized prices are increasingly graded on operational efficiency instead of reserves growth. This trend is forecast to continue; nearly 90 percent of oil and gas executives expect their investment in digital tools to increase over the next two years, according to a recent EY survey. Yet, an obstacle a lack of talent stands in the way of companies maximizing the value of their digital investments. Although oil and gas companies recognize the need for digital-savvy employees, like data scientists, many have thus-far struggled to recruit and retain employees with these talents. Why? In addition to competing with leaders across all industries for these talented employees, oil and gas companies are also navigating how to recruit and retain people very different from those they have historically employed. On HoustonChronicle.com: Oil and gas companies shift workplace culture, focus of tech to appeal to younger workers Younger generations with the digital skills needed by oil and gas firms have different work preferences than traditional workers. Largely millennials or Generation Z, these employees arent typically looking to settle into a standard nine-to-five at the same office for 30 years as their parents before them. They also enjoy unstructured work environments that dont tie them down to specific projects for long periods of time. Further, after growing up during the Great Recession, younger employees seem to increasingly value versatility in the workplace over job security. Additionally, younger individuals have the desire to work across the globe. To staff their digital workforce, oil and gas companies need to adapt their recruiting and retention strategies to account for these preferences. For example, oil and gas companies can offer their new hires rotations to build a variety of skills and keep them both challenged and motivated. They can highlight their international presence and the opportunity for international assignments to peak potential employees interests in working globally. They can also adapt their reward programs, including compensation and alternative benefits, to align with the desires of this population. Another way to both effectively attract and cater to these workers demands is by developing centers of excellence that embrace their wants and needs. These employees are different and oil and gas companies need to treat them differently. But oil and gas companies especially larger corporations may find it difficult to completely shift their culture to account for these differences. Creating centers of excellence enables companies to embrace new recruiting processes and retention methods in a more expedited fashion. These centers can also feature accelerated career tracks, and different learning and development opportunities. Fuel Fix: Get energy news sent directly to your inbox Just as energy firms need to get creative in how they attract this new generation of workers, it is equally important they re-evaluate where they search for candidates. Oil and gas companies should broaden their search pools to account for the skills needed from digital employees. Firms need to be open to a diverse range of educational backgrounds, both in terms of what candidates studied in school and the type of institutions they attended. Specifically, firms should be open to candidates from trade schools and military academies institutions that have historically produced innovative and adaptable workers. Oil and gas firms have woken up to the digital age. Now, its time to prioritize hiring a new wave of digital leaders to put their innovative technologies to work and push their company to new heights. Rachel Everaard is the Southwest people advisory services leader at the global accounting and consulting firm Ernst and Young. Its got an adorable hero from an iconic media brand who is voiced by a proven box-office master at snark. But, somehow, Pokemon Detective Pikachu never really gets arresting. A neutered Ryan Reynolds tries hard but cant make this live-action-meets-animated movie gel. Its plodding and listless and really not funny or smart enough. Turns out, you cant copy Deadpool tricks for the PG set. Pokemon Detective Pikachu borrows lightly from film noir crime dramas to create a mystery in a world where humans and Pokemon coexist. A young man called Tim Goodman (the terrific Justice Smith) joins with Pikachu (Reynolds voice) to search for what happened to the mans father, a missing detective. The movies best moments are those between the scenes, where the Japan-born creatures thrillingly share the same urban space as humans. NEW FILMS ON HOUSTONCHRONICLE.COM: 'Poms,' 'The Hustle' Smith is very appealing as a son coming to grips with the loss of his estranged father, but Reynolds, as a cute coffee-guzzling detective with a Sherlock Holmes deerstalker cap, pingpongs from heartfelt to caustic uneasily and tries to mimic his best-known, fourth-wall breaking Deadpool movie character (Thats a twist. Very twisty, he says of one plot point.) Its the most mismatched buddy flick since Will Smith teamed up with an Orc for Bright. The film starts slowly, builds to a sort of plateau and then ends with the final third consisting of nonstop action sequences and an underwhelming conclusion. Ken Watanabe is underused as a police chief. Equally inexplicably, Suki Waterhouse gets credit for a role in which she never speaks and lasts about 15 seconds onscreen. Speaking of speaking, youre probably wondering why theres any dialogue between the adorable pocket monsters and humans since Pokemon traditionally only just say their own names. Enter five screenwriters Rob Letterman, Dan Hernandez, Benji Samit, Derek Connolly and Nicole Perlman. Their solution is a weird gas that makes everyone crazy but somehow allows Tim to communicate with Pikachu. Sure, gas. The pair are joined by a junior reporter really an unpaid intern tasked with writing listicles, played by a winning Kathryn Newton who helps them get to the bottom of the mystery using shoe leather and guile. (This is a film that celebrates the media in a big way there are newspaper clippings, honorable TV reporting and a respected giant cable network. Its not news if it cant be verified, says one character. Take that, fake news people.) ON HOUSTONCHRONICLE.COM: 'Tolkien' fails to do justice to the author Pokemon Detectice Pikachu Rated PG: for action/peril, some rude and suggestive humor, and thematic elements Running time: 104 minutes * (out of 5) See More Collapse But its all a bit of a muddle. We meet some cool Pokemon Charizard, Psyduck, Snubbull, Ditto, Magikarp, Cubone and Mewtwo mixed in with a climate change joke and an attempt to burn a miming Pokemon with mimed gasoline. Its a film that explores daddy issues and also riffs off Silence of the Lambs (Are you gonna make me into a lampshade? Pikachu asks his human minder). Some of it is very scary for younger kids; most of it is incomprehensible to adults. Then theres Rita Ora playing a research scientist. Were not sure why that is but she also teams up with Kygo to supply the films signature song Carry On a bland, lazy, derivative club banger. Its perfect for this flat film. NEWS WHEN YOU NEED IT: Text CHRON to 77453 to receive breaking news alerts by text message | Find fun things to do and see around Houston in our weekly Preview newsletter. Subscribe here. A Friendswood citizens advisory group has recommended that the city use terracing cutting stair-step contours along Clear Creek and other measures to address flooding threats. Mindful of the havoc caused by Hurricane Harvey flooding, the drainage subcommittee has proposed projects totaling $173 million to be conducted over 15 years, with the citys share amounting to $32 million or 18 percent that could be funded through a bond election, City Manager Morad Kabiri said. The city would look to other sources such as grants for the remainder of the funding, according to Kabiri. Kabiri presented the subcommittees recommendations for seven projects to City Council on May 6. The committee received input from Philip B. Bedient, an engineering professor at Rice University. The projects, which all focus on the main stem of Clear Creek, include four terracing projects; two projects to raise the elevation of roads or bridges and a desnagging effort, which is underway. Kabiri said the most important of the projects would be a $18 million effort involving terracing, or cutting land into a series of successively receding flat surfaces or platforms to resemble steps. By removing more volumes of earth, it creates more room for water, city spokesman Jeff Newpher said. It also creates more land in addition to improving water flow. The areas proposed for terracing are between Dixie Farm Road and FM 2351, FM 2351 and Whispering Pines Avenue, Whispering Pines Avenue and FM 528 and FM 528 and West Bay Area Boulevard. If a potential bond proposition for drainage were approved by voters, the $32 million would be allocated periodically as drainage projects are presented, Newpher said. Another advisory committee of residents is investigating the possibility of a fall bond referendum to fund various needs that could include facilities and transportation. Council members who have expressed approval for the drainage committees recommendations including Steve Rockey and Sally Branson. We need to fund this, Rockey said. tyler.johnson@chron.com In the aftermath of not one, but two separate school shootings in the country in less than a week, Katy Independent School District officials on Thursday were dealing with their own gun threat. District police said in a statement that they had identified and arrested a suspect accused of making terroristic threats aimed at two Katy ISD schools. The threat had begun to spread through social media on Wednesday. The suspect, identified only as a juvenile and a Katy ISD student, is accused of posting photos featuring a student holding a handgun, a semi-automatic gun laying on the floor and a direct threat made toward Paetow High School and Stockdick Junior High, district officials said in a letter to parents Thursday morning. The juvenile in the photo is not the suspect who made the threats and was completely unaware that the images had been posted, Paetow HS Principal Mindy Dickerson said. The images that were circulated date back to 2017, police said. RELATED: Suspect arrested after terroristic threat reported at two Katy ISD schools Officials said they had increased police officer presence Thursday at both schools and that the suspect - who had been charged with exhibition of a firearm and online impersonation - will be disciplined to the fullest extent allowable by law and the Katy ISD Discipline Management Plan and Student Code of Conduct. "Student safety and security is a primary responsibility of our staff and schools," said Ken Gregorski, Superintendent of Katy ISD. "Our Board and administration are continually assessing safety needs and taking responsive measures to ensure our campuses are equipped with updated security systems, and that staff and students have access to the tools and resources needed to avert potential threats. We also know that maximizing our partnerships with our students, parents, law enforcement, and the community at large, and creating that open line of communication with our campuses is key to protecting our most precious assets our children." The incident comes at a time when gun violence and mass shootings in the country - particularly in schools - have created major political polarization and have sent thousands of children to their early graves since 1999. An estimated 3 million American children are exposed to shootings every year, according to Everytown For Gun Safety Fund, an independent, nonprofit organization that researches gun violence in the United States. The number does not include college students. Last week, a 22-year-old suspect opened fire at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte campus, killing two people and injuring another four. And on Tuesday in Highland Ranch, Colo., two students opened fire inside a charter school in a suburb outside of Denver, not far from Columbine High School. A student who had tried to fight off the attackers died. Eight others were injured. Katy ISD administration became aware of the threats to the schools Wednesday evening and notified district police, who immediately began an investigation that went on through the night, the district said. RELATED: Katy ISD seeks $7 million for school security Following a statement by Katy ISD police early Thursday, parents on social media were quick to send messages of thanks to officers for taking timely action. During a scary situation like this, it was good to know that you and the schools were on top of the matter immediately to keep everyone safe, and communicated what you could to the public as soon as you were able, one person said. Dickerson commended the police response, as well. Our Katy ISD Police Department has received an overwhelming amount of support via their Facebook page for being swift to gather pertinent information and make a quick arrest overnight, she said. However, since this incident is still an active investigation, disseminating certain information to our community is still limited, in order to not jeopardize the integrity of this investigation. The schools will have extra officers on patrol, not just on campus but in our residential areas, to ensure students and families feel safe before, during and after school, Dickerson said. RELATED: Katy ISD boosts campus security It is still unclear what the relationship was between the suspect and the student in the photos. Katy ISD has spent millions on upgrading security systems and safety improvements throughout the district. From retrofitting security cameras to installing security fencing to integrating police record management software so that it is compatible with Harris County and other agencies. Last month, district officials asked the board of trustees to allocate $7 million from the 2017 school bond fund to provide more protection for students and staff. Earlier this year, the district finished its fencing and gates project, which was estimated at $721,406 and was part of the bond voters approved in 2017. The project included adding six-foot security fencing around elementary schools identified by the district. The 2017 bond included more than $16 million in security improvements, many of which will be finalized later this year and next. The Associated Press contributed to this story. michelle.iracheta@chron.com Houston rapper Trae tha Truth said he didn't wake up until early afternoon Wednesday. He was up late the night before, but not for a rap performance. Trae, whose given name is Frazier Thompson III, was out driving through the flooded Houston area roads in his high-water truck, helping residents reach safety with the help of his cohort, Justin "DJ Rogers" Rogers. This isn't new for Trae and Rogers. Along with any willing and able volunteers, the two helm "Relief Gang," formed during Hurricane Harvey in 2017 as they helped victims of storm's devastating destruction. ON HOUSTONCHRONICLE.COM: Rockets' Gerald Green teams with Trae tha Truth to help Houston rebuild When the storms set in overnight Tuesday, Trae and Rogers answered the call of duty once again, each one jumping into his flood rescue truck. "We started at 7 p.m. and were out until around 3 a.m.," Trae told Chron.com. "We were all around town, from the southeast side to the southwest side. Then I received a call that some kids were stranded at their school." Woodridge Forest Middle School was surrounded by high water, trapping students and school staff inside. As Trae and Rogers neared Woodridge, Trae said, it was chaos as they made their way along flooded streets, passing a number of stalled cars. Finally reaching the school, Relief Gang members began shuttling the children and adults out of the building to their homes and cars, also assisting stranded drivers as they made their way back and forth through the flooded area. "I saved around 60 people. Mr. Rogers did around the same," Trae said. Trae, who began his rap career in 1998, making his first appearance on Z-Ro's debut album, Look What You Did to Me, has been helping people throughout his career. ON HOUSTONCHRONICLE.COM: Houston is having a global pop-cultural moment Relief Gang spent millions of dollars from donations to their nonprofit, Angel By Nature, and their own money, to rebuild hundreds of homes post Harvey, the Houston Chronicle reported in 2018. Further helping those affected by the hurricane, they partnered with Beyonce to hand out hot meals at a local church in 2017. Their assistance in the community is ongoing. At Christmas, Trae said, Relief Gang took 200 residents on a $75,000 shopping spree for clothing and necessities at J.C. Penney. Aside from rescuing flood victims this week, they paid rent for 10 Houstonians who were facing eviction, Trae said. What's more, Trae established U'Neek & Gifted, a non-profit organization that provides disability resources, advocacy and support to those living with special needs. It was founded and named in honor of Trae's son, D'Neeko, who was born with a chromosome 13 abnormality. REFUGE IN ROSENBERG: Family opens home to stranded mom, kids "I have always helped people," Trae said. "It's in my nature. It's what gives me my drive." Wednesday afternoon, Trae was back to doing just that. He was preparing to jump back in his truck and hit the streets, continuing to help flood victims. "At the end of the day, there is always someone in need," Trae said. "The worst thing, I think, is for someone to feel like they have been forgotten. I don't want anyone to feel like that." Marcy de Luna is a digital reporter. You can follow her on Twitter @MarcydeLuna and Facebook @MarcydeLuna. Read her stories on our breaking news site, Chron.com, and on our subscriber site, HoustonChronicle.com. | Marcy.deLuna@chron.com | Text CHRON to 77453 to receive breaking news alerts by text message Donald Collins, the former superintendent of Klein ISD who led the district for 29 years, died at age 83 on Saturday, May 4. Collins led the district in 1971 until his retirement in 2000, taking the district from six schools to 28 schools during his 29-year tenure. He was a real visionary, said Glenn Wilkerson, president of the Cypress Creek Cultural District. Collins was born in October 1935 and moved to Houston in 1950 where he first worked in radio and television broadcasting when he was 16. He then began working as as a teacher for Houston ISD in 1957 after graduating from the University of Houston with a psychology degree and later enlisted in the U.S. Air Force Reserve, according to a release from Klein ISD. Collins then returned to Houston ISD as an assistant superintendent before arriving at Klein ISD in 1971. Wilkerson said he moved to the Houston area in 1973 and whenever he met with Collins, their conversations would center on education. Wed visit about his goals and vision for expanding the school district. The growth that has taken place over the years has just been phenomenal, Wilkerson said. According to a Klein ISD released, the district grew to 31,800 students from 2,700 students under Collins leadership. While funeral arrangements are pending as of May 8, the district is collecting stories or condolences for the Collins family. mayra.cruz@chron.com Approximately 28 people were arrested on felony Driving While Intoxicated charges in Montgomery County throughout the month of April, according to records from a public information request filed by the Chronicle. In Texas, a person is charged with DWI if their blood or breath alcohol concentration (BAC) is .08 or higher, according to the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT.) The city of Missouri City has reported that due to the rains that hit the area leading up to Tuesday night and the prediction of more rain in the coming days, portions of Edible Arbor Trail and Mosley Park by Oyster Creek have been closed. Rivers, creeks and bayous in the Missouri City area are elevated, particularly along the Brazos River and Oyster Creek. According to a news release, a flood warning has been extended until late Sunday, May 12, for the Brazos River at Richmond. As of 4:51 p.m. Wednesday, May 8, the Brazos River at Richmond is at 47.11 feet which is in minor flood stage. BREAKING NEWS UPDATES: Get your Houston breaking news alerts delivered to your inbox Residents are encouraged to stay away from the high waterways, to take precautions if necessary, to monitor local weather reports before travelling around the area and to sign up for emergency alerts. Residents can monitor alerts at www.MissouriCityReady.com and Twitter@MissouriCityEM. The U.S. National Weather Service is predicting "additional showers/thunderstorms that may even accompany tornadoes or strong damaging winds, hail and street flooding later this afternoon (Wednesday, May 8) and tonight." Missouri City reports that additional "strong storms are expected from Thursday and into the weekend. Damaging winds, hail, and isolated tornadoes will also be possible during this time frame." Because of the threat of storms, Missouri City has postponed its Friday recognition of city employees as part of Public Service Recognition Week. City offices will be open for regular business hours on Friday. WEATHER FORECAST: A 'marathon' of rain is coming to Houston Meanwhile, the city's third annual Mother's Day Cake Decorating event will take place as scheduled from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, May 11, in the Community Center, 1522 Texas Parkway. For more information, go to http://bit.ly/2DXGZt3. City staff will be monitoring all roadway conditions. If residents have areas of concern, call 281-403-8700. Officials also stress the importance of keeping a list of informational resources for reference. Recommendations for city residents include: Police and Fire Departments: 911 or 281-403-8700. CenterPoint Energy: 713-207-2222. American Red Cross-Fort Bend County Branch: 281.342.9480, Greater Houston Branch: 713-526-8300. Ready Harris (www.readyharris.org); 713-881-3100; the Harris County Office of Emergency Management's official website. Enable Fort Bend (www.enablefortbend.com); 281-238-3514; the agency assists individuals with functional and medical needs during an emergency or disaster. MCTV: Comcast Ch. 16; AT&T U-verse Ch. 99. WQMN 1690 AM: Emergency advisory radio station. MCTX Mobile App: Download it in the Apple App store or on Google Play. rkent@hcnonline.com Fort Bend County officials are continuing to monitor the Brazos River as it flows through the county, hovering in the "minor" flood stage, just below what is deemed the moderate level. However, the threat of more rain beginning Thursday has entities preparing for another flood event. According to the National Weather Service, as of 11:51 a.m. Thursday, the Brazos River at Richmond is at 47.33 feet. Moderate flood level is at 48 feet. The National Weather Service is currently predicting the river to crest at 47.7 feet early Saturday morning. The record level for the Brazos at Richmond is 55.19 feet on Sept. 1, 2017. A flood warning for Richmond issued by the National Weather Service is in effect until late Sunday or until it is cancelled. STAY INFORMED: Get all the news you need to know to start your day, delivered to your inbox In a post to the city of Richmond Facebook page, it reported that the "Brazos River is at minor flood stage and near the predicted crest level. The current river level predictions could change as weather conditions change." Meanwhile, the Brazos is listed in the moderate flood stage in Rosharon. As for 11:51 a.m. Thursday, the river was at 50.76 feet, just below the 51.3-foot major flood stage. The river is predicted to crest at 50.9 feet early Friday. The record high for this area is 52.65 feet on Aug 29, 2017. The city of Sugar Land reported that it "received more than 9 inches of rain over a five-hour period. By comparison, the highest intensity of rainfall during Hurricane Harvey was about half of this amount throughout that event. City storm drains are functioning normally, but the large amount of rain we received in a short period of time exceeded the capacity of our storm drains and could do so again." HIGH-WATER RESCUE CALLS: Readers share photos of severe flooding across Houston Sugar Land also reported that flooded streets were clear early Thursday. But the threat of more rain has the city planning for more floods. "Depending on the duration and intensity of the next round of storms, residents should plan for the possibility of more street flooding," the city reported in a news release. "Residents in areas with previously flooded streets particular Greatwood and locations south of State Highway 6 in areas such as Colony Park, Austin Park, Colony Bend, Chimney Stone and Settlers Park should closely monitor weather conditions, be prepared to act quickly and seek higher ground. High-risk people with medical conditions who may not be able to stay in their homes for up to two days should consider leaving if possible in advance of the pending weather. It will be important to help keep storm drains clears, secure loose items around homes, report any missing manhole covers to the city and avoid parking vehicles on streets that flood." The Weather Prediction Center through the National Weather Service "has issued a moderate risk for excessive rainfall" Thursday through Saturday morning. A Flash Flood Watch is in effect starting at 1 p.m. Thursday through 7 p.m. Saturday. rkent@hcnonline.com GRANDVIEW, WA - This is what Pooh Bear would call a blustery morning. The wind is brisk and out of the west. The tall grass is blowing in every direction. Cant make up its mind. Theres a baby goat jumping around in the field over yonder just like it had good sense. Kay has named the goat Jumper. The Snoqualmie Tribe of Washington State would call Kay Nongee - Namer of New Goats. - Im sticking with Sweetpea. Im so glad we got to revisit our family and friends in Washington State. We jumped at the invitation. I think Curts words were, Kay, youre always welcome here. I took that as an invite, so here we are. By the way, Curt is my niece Rhondas husband. Rhonda is the niece who will actually put up with her Uncle Notha! The Snoqualmie name has to be shouted. It translates - Not Him again! I would like to say that the flight up here was uneventful, but it had its moments. One of the good moments was when the flight attendant selected me to be in control of the emergency door at the left wing of the plane. I assume she noticed my demeanor of trust and reliability. Either that or she noticed that I was the one seated next to the emergency door by the left wing of the plane. I dont mean to run down the airline, but I dont think they considered the gravity of the job of emergency door opener. They acted as if any yokel could handle it. I picked up on that when I noticed the guy sitting in the seat next to the emergency door on the right. What a loser. The scary thing was that I wasnt given much direction. I was told to look at the illustration on the back of the seat in front of me to see out how to open the door. The attendant showed me a couple of pamphlets I could read if I wanted. He said there was a video I could watch if I thought it necessary. I told him I was cool with the mission. I did suggest he hand the pamphlets to the guy manning the other door. He just didnt look up to the task, you ask me. Before he left, I whispered to him, By the way, when do I open this thing? He told me not to open the door. He looked over at Kay and said, Maam, dont let him open the door. In fact, change places with him, would you? I told the attendant that I was just joking. He said he was too. Though I was tempted, I never saw the need to open the door. Im hoping to get to be the emergency door opener again on the flight home. The best thing about the job is that you get an extra six inches of leg-room at the emergency door. Of course, we had to pay for those six inches, but the exorbitant rate was worth it. My nephew CJ greeted us at the baggage pickup area upon our arrival at SeaTac at 12:40 in the a.m. - What a great nephew. - I let Kay steer one of the wheeled suitcases, while CJ took charge of the other one. I accepted the task of manually carrying the two take-on bags. I put one of the straps around my neck and carried the other bag in my arms as if I were hauling an overweight child. Long story short, Kay fell down the up-escalator. I was as surprised as you. Unbeknownst to us, it requires a bit of careful planning to balance a large piece of wheeled-luggage on a moving step that is headed upward. We were five steps up when Kays suitcase slipped off its step, causing her to take a tumble. Although Im agile as a puma, I also fell. Ended up on top of Kays suitcase which was resting on top of her. And get this - we were sliding down the up-escalator. I thought it impossible. CJ saved our lives by yelling for someone to push the emergency button at the escalators entrance. Had my nephew not reacted so fast, we wouldve ended up in a pile at the bottom where the steps magically appear. Kays hair mightve gotten caught in the gears and pulled from her head. Heaven knows what wouldve happened to me. Seriously, I have no idea what wouldve happened to me. Fortunately, we didnt have to find out because CJ saved the day. I couldnt help thinking that everybody blamed me for not strapping the two carry-on bags to the suitcase and wheeling the thing myself. Then I wouldve been the person at the bottom of the escalator with my nose caught in the gears. Six of one The good news is, Kay only ended up with some scrapes and bruises. It in no way impeded our drive eastward across the mountains to the town of Grandview. At the moment, Kay is in bed, and Im sitting out back where Im being blown by the wind racing across the hills on its journey west. This is the ranch where Rhonda and Curt live with their family of three sons, two daughters in law, six grandkids, and five goats one of which, Kay named Jumper. And today? Today, the real fun begins. Ill tell you about it next time. Contact Mark at hayter.mark@gmail.com. Book lovers of all ages are invited to explore A Universe of Stories this summer as a part of the Montgomery County Memorial Library Systems Summer Reading Program. The program kicks off on Monday, June 3, with summer activities at all seven county branches of the MCMLS. In 2018, 11,800 people signed up for the Summer Reading Program. According to Devery Johnson, Outreach Coordinator for the MCMLS, the statewide theme for each summers reading program is selected by the Texas State Library Association. There are two parts to the program. First, children are encouraged to pick up a reading log at any library branch. For the birth-to-age-12 group, theyll keep track of reading using the dots on the page. Fill in a dot when you read or listen for 30 minutes or when you finish one book. Once 10 books are read, bring the completed log back for a certificate and prizes from the community in the shape of coupons. The log may be returned at any time throughout the program which ends on July 13. There are a different set of guidelines for teen readers from 13 to 17 and for adults 18 plus. Additionally, eBooks and audiobooks can be counted for the adult log and adults may submit their log online at countylibrary.org/summer.htm. There are different prizes for adults who complete the log. It also counts for both a child and an adult when the adult reads to the child, Johnson said. Johnson praises the involvement from community businesses and groups that support the program. We wouldnt be able to do any of this without the community being involved, Johnson said. She estimates there are more than 100 businesses who donate to the program and thank you notes line the hallways each summer at the Central Library thanking them for their support. Johnson has also arranged for students who complete a log to turn it in to their their librarian when school starts to get additional prizes. The second part of the Summer Reading event is age-based programs at the Central Library and the other branches. The kick-off party at the Central Library, 104 I-45 in Conroe, is set for 2 p.m. on Tuesday, June 4. Earlier in the day, the Central Library presents movie time with Wreck It Ralph at 10 a.m. Then Houston-based storyteller and magician Julian Franklin presents a program at the 2 p.m. kick off. He keeps the toddlers and Pre-K children enthralled and thats hard to do, Johnson said. Then the Central Library offers age-based programs of interest Tuesdays through Thursdays through July 13. For example on Tuesday, June 4, from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m., theres a program for Girls Who Code for ages eight to 12 and on Thursday, June 6, theres a teen program called Texas Snakes and More. Johnson said the library staff has worked all year find appropriate programs for each age level. Some adult programming takes place on Mondays. The next adult event up is at 2 p.m. on June 10 making peppermint foot cream. A library card is not needed to participate in the program, but in some cases registration is needed to ensure there are enough supplies. Johnson said the librarys summer programming is a great free resource for families. For a list of all the events that are a part of the MCMLS Summer Reading Program at all of the branches, visit countylibrary.org/summer.htm. With five to 10 inches of rain expected in Montgomery County from Wednesday to Sunday, area school officials have to make the call on what to do with their students. Though Splendora ISD decided to hold classes Thursday, the district sent out an update around 10 a.m. announcing that after monitoring the heavy rain predictions, all after-school activities and events have been canceled Thursday. Superintendent of Schools Jeff Burke said the district would continue to monitor the weather as conditions change. The campus was closed Wednesday after about 10 inches of rain flooded the area in less than 24 hours Tuesday, leaving many roads in the area impassable. We got kids home a little later (on Tuesday), but we did not have any kids at our schools overnight. We canceled school Wednesday knowing that there would be additional rainfall, Burke said. WEATHER WATCH: Montgomery County gears up for more rain and flooding Burke said that any further decisions on whether classes will be held will be made as quickly as possible. You never know which decisions turn out to be the best, but we have a really good team.I have confidence in our leadership and surrounding law enforcement, Burke said. New Caney ISD, which also closed schools Wednesday, announced that evening that the district would be closed the rest of the week due to the expected severe weather, potentially hazardous road conditions and flooding. According to the districts executive director of public relations, Scott Powers, students will not have to make up the missed days and all testing has been rescheduled for next week. The district is using its websites, social media accounts and notification system to post updates. BREAKING NEWS UPDATES: Get your Houston breaking news alerts delivered to your inbox New Caney High School reportedly took on some water from the first round of storms that hit the area Tuesday afternoon, but the district is still assessing the extent of the damage. As of noon Thursday, no other Montgomery County school districts have announced schedule changes due to the storms. The National Weather Service has issued a flood watch for Montgomery County, along with much of southeast Texas, from 1 p.m. Thursday until 7 p.m. Saturday. Officials estimate five to eight inches of widespread rainfall with nine to 12 inches of rain in isolated areas. jane.stueckemann@chron.com Doubt continued to surround the disappearance of 4-year-old Maleah Davis as her familys stolen car was found Thursday morning in a Missouri City parking lot and as police said they were unable to find the man who reported an alleged abduction. The one constant is that little Maleah has not yet been found. The elusive Nissan Altima that the childs stepfather, Darion Vence, was believed to be driving the night of Maleahs presumed disappearane was found by an eagle-eyed cabbie outside a shopping center in the 5400 block of Texas 6, Missouri City police Capt. Paul Poulton said. The driver knew about the search for the child and recognized the vehicle. The paper tag license plates also matched what Houston Police Department has shared in the missing persons case, Poulton said. The vehicle had no sign of Maleah and was towed to a police evidence lot in Houston, HPD Detective Ken Fregia said. The cars clean, and I dont mean in that somebodys cleaned it, Fregia said at a news conference. The car looks normal. Theres no obvious signs of anything happening in the car. How the car ended up at the shopping center is uncertain. Amber Ryan, an employee at an Avis Car Rental office in the center, said the car was not there when she reported to work on Tuesday. Fefe Taylor also said she did not see any cars in that area when she arrived for her shift at Riverstone Dental around 7:30 a.m. Thursday. The car did not appear to have anything wrong with the tires either, in contrast to Vences initial police report that three men jumped him in north Houston after he pulled over to check on a possible flat on his way to pick up Maleahs mother at Bush Intercontinental Airport. Police did not know if the tires had since been changed. Vence initially claimed that the suspects knocked him unconscious and kidnapped him and the two children with him including Maleah, according to police. He said spent the next day blacked out and woke up Saturday night in Sugar Land with his 1-year-old son. Maleah had been taken, he said. He could not remember what happened to him or the child since Friday night and reported her missing at Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital. Fregia said that was the last time Vence contacted police. Each time we have tried to talk to him, or have him come in, we have been unsuccessful, Fregia said. Police issued a be on the lookout alert for the car Vence was driving and had hoped to find him with it, the detective said. He was asked to come in and help compile a sketch of the three men who may have taken the girl. HPD has not publicly declared Vence a person of interest or suspect in the childs disappearance. Were not concerned that we havent found him, Fregia said when asked if Vence was a person of interest. The discovery brought Maleahs mother, Brittany Bowens, to the parking lot. She declined to comment on the find and collapsed onto a patch of grass near the crime scene tape and screamed, Where is she? As of Tuesday, Vence has apparently failed to answer any communication attempts by Bowens, according to court documents. The same court document reveals that Sugar Land Police Department was eyeing Vence in connection to the girls disappearance. Meanwhile, Texas EquuSearch was conducting its own effort near Vences apartment in the 9700 block of Kirkwood Road in the Alief area. The search was cut short on Tuesday and Wednesday because of storms and flood conditions. Another round of rough weather was a factor in ceasing search operations on Thursday, authorities said. A review of court documents leading up to Maleahs disappearance shows that her grandmother, Brenda Bowens, tried having the girl and her two siblings placed in her home rather than foster care during a lengthy Child Protective Services investigation that began last August. An emergency motion lodged Tuesday was her latest attempt. The 1-year-old child who was with Vence the night of the alleged abduction was discharged from the hospital Sunday and placed in his paternal grandmothers care, a CPS caseworker wrote in court documents, while the 5-year-old boy was placed in a foster home. The caseworker wrote that she was unable to reach Vence or Brittany Bowens on Sunday to discuss their decision. The children were previously taken into CPS custody last August after Maleah suffered an unexplained head injury that was reported as an allegation of physical abuse and neglectful supervision, records show. A sworn statement by a CPS investigator revealed that on July 29, Brittany Bowens called her mother and said Maleah had fallen from a tall chair to a marble table but was fine. At the grandmothers urging, Maleah was taken to a hospital and a laceration to her forehead was stitched. The childs health took a turn for the worst Aug. 1, according to the statement. Brittany Bowens texted Brenda Bowens that something was wrong with Maleah and that her eyes were rolling back, the document reads. Another trip to the hospital revealed that the child had a craniectomy to relieve pressure, the sworn statement continued. The surgery revealed that the color of Maleahs blood was not normal. It looked different and not fresh, the statement said. The record shows medical professionals doubted that a fall from a chair could have caused Maleahs injuries, which required half her skull to be removed. The injury also caused acute and chronic hemorrhages within the cranial vault of her head. Vence, whom CPS identified as Brittany Bowens paramour, was home at the time of Maleahs injury but told the investigator he was in the bathroom and did not actually see how it happened, documents show. He denied any previous injuries. Maleah was previously hospitalized July 10 after vomiting with small amounts of blood. On Feb. 15, a Harris County judge ruled that the children could return home with periodic CPS visits. In April, a caseworker reported that Maleahs mother had taken a parenting class and that CPS should be dismissed from the civil litigation. The agency intervened again only after an Amber Alert was issued Sunday morning for the missing child. Maleahs 5-year-old brother has since been placed into a foster home, according to court documents. Lawyers involved with the custody dispute are unable to discuss the matter due to a gag order. The case is due back in court May 22. Pearland ISD is asking parents, and members of the public, to give an unnamed administrator "a second chance" after he was put on leave following a controversial dress code incident with a junior high student. The Chronicle reported a Berry Miller Junior High student was allegedly forced to color in a "M" shape shaved into his short fade haircut with a marker last month. Citing the haircut as a violation of the district's dress code, the administrator told the student he could call his parent, receive in-school suspension or color in the shaving. Flooding is being blamed for overflow of more than 650,000 gallons of wastewater from a Pearland treatment plant that has led the city to warn people to avoid contact with adjacent Clear Creek downstream from the facility, which is near the intersection of Barry Rose Road and Pearland Parkway. Due to the length of time the overflow occurred, City of Pearland recommends citizens avoid any contact with the creek, as well as abstain from any recreational use of the channel from downstream of the Barry Rose Water Reclamation Facility, the city reported in a press release. If the public comes into contact with water or soil potentially affected by the spill, they should bathe and wash clothes thoroughly as soon as possible. The warning which Texas Commission on Environmental Quality require the city to issue when wastewater overflow exceeds 100,000 gallons occurred after city staff discovered Wednesday that below-ground pumps that move sewage into the treatment facility had failed at 11:30 p.m. the day before, according to the release. BREAKING NEWS UPDATES: Get your Houston breaking news alerts delivered to your inbox Emergency pumps were ordered at 6:30 a.m. on Wednesday and the facility began operating again that day, but an estimated 654,000 gallons or 15 percent of the plants daily wastewater intake overflowed at one manhole inside and four outside of the facility that lead to a drainage ditch that outflows to Clear Creek. The ditch attracts anglers when Clear Creek rises, and one man was seen fishing by that ditch late Wednesday afternoon City officials believe that because of elevated creek levels, any contaminants from the spill should dissipate quickly, and staff members were monitoring the water upstream and downstream and reporting results to the state commission, according to the release. Any wastewater on the street has been neutralized and returned to the plant, the release stated. "We're still waiting on the results," city spokesman Joshua Lee said of testing of creek water, which was conducted using samples from 50 feet upstream from the plant and 50 feet downstream. The results may be available later today or Friday, he said. Lee said that crews will be at the plant around the clock to ensure it remains operational. They are monitoring the temporary above-ground bypass pumps while the underground ones are repaired, he said. For more information, contact the citys public works at 281-652-1900. greg.may@chron.com Courtesy photo Members of the Clements FFA chapter traveled to Sam Houston State University, Huntsville, May 3, to compete in the state Floriculture Career Development Event. Clements FFA placed 2nd in the Floriculture contest. Team members included: Catherine Scott, Isabella Golemi, Emma Lee and Haley Knecht. Lee placed 1st in individual. SAFE 2 SAVE and State Farm announced the winning high schools of the Fort Bend ISD competition, which promoted undistracted safe driving. State Farm awarded over $7,000 to the participating high schools which competed to earn the most points for not touching their phones while driving. SAFE 2 SAVE is a free mobile app that rewards users points for undistracted driving that can be redeemed at local businesses for free items and discounts. Schools and organizations can compete to see who can earn the most points by driving the safest. The Fort Bend ISD competition ran from April 1-30 and had six high schools participate. SAFE 2 SAVE has really helped me to not text while driving, said Steven Shiels, FBISD Director of Counseling and Postsecondary Readiness. Im racking up the points and there are great places to redeem for free food and other stuff! State Farm sponsored the competition generously awarding $7,400 to the winning schools. State Farms number one focus is customer safety and we thought April was a great time for the competition, said Gina Wilken, State Farm Public Affairs Specialist. Teaming up with SAFE 2 SAVE is one more way we can get the message out about the dangers of distracted driving and try to start to turn the corner on this trend. The results of the Fort Bend ISD Competition: 1st Place School Austin High School, $2,000 award 2nd Place School Dulles High School, 1,375 award 3rd Place School Kempner High School, $1,250 award In addition, Austin High School parents and teachers will be awarded lunch for having the largest staff and parent participation. Within each school, the top two adults and students are also awarded a $75 and $50 gift card. State Farm and SAFE 2 SAVE will soon hold a ceremony for the top three placing high schools to congratulate and award them their prize. Engaging schools in safe driving competitions is a fun and motivating way to really change behavior in the students, faculty, and parents, said Meagan Kamra, SAFE 2 SAVE Competitions Lead. We are beyond grateful for State Farm caring about making their community safer and making the competition awards possible. SAFE 2 SAVE school competitions are no cost to the school or ISD. To learn more about SAFE 2 SAVE competitions and how to start one at your school, contact Meagan Kamra at competitions@safe2save.org. Memorial Hermann Life Flight is the title sponsor for SAFE 2 SAVE in the Greater Houston area. Currently, Houston is the most distracted city in the nation and MH cares deeply about injury prevention. This is seen as a proactive approach effectively driving change, creating conversation about the epidemic of distracted driving and truly rewarding good behavior. About State Farm: The mission of State Farm is to help people manage the risks of everyday life, recover from the unexpected, and realize their dreams. State Farm and its affiliates are the largest providers of auto and home insurance in the United States. Its nearly 19,000 agents and approximately 58,000 employees serve approximately 83 million policies and accounts approximately 81 million auto, fire, life, health and commercial policies and approximately 2 million bank accounts. Commercial auto insurance, along with coverage for renters, business owners, boats and motorcycles, is available. State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company is the parent of the State Farm family of companies. State Farm is ranked No. 36 on the 2018 Fortune 500 list of largest companies. For more information, please visit http://www.statefarm.com. About SAFE 2 SAVE: SAFE 2 SAVE is a free, rewards-based incentive app which works to end distracted driving. Users are rewarded with points for not using their phone while driving. Points can then be redeemed for free items + discounts at popular restaurant chains, local eateries, retail stores and more. S2S is available in the App Store + Google Play Store. To learn more please visit our website https://safe2save.org. Find us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/safe2save/ or follow us on twitter @Safe2Save. Hempstead County Sheriff's Office A registered sex offender in Arkansas has reportedly threatened to go to extreme measures to get off the street and back into prison, according to officials in the city of Hope. The Hempstead County Sheriff's Office said John Mark West, 38, threatened upon being released from a hospital to avoid taking his medication and to "rape the first woman he sees" so he could return to the Arkansas Department of Corrections. What are the most anticipated video games of 2022? One result of the pandemic was a so-so year for gaming in 2021 and massive hype for 2022. This site can instantly tell you if your flight will be delayed Here's how to figure out if your flight is delayed before your travel day even starts. A 19-year-old has been charged with intoxication manslaughter in a head-on collision Thursday morning in southwest Houston that left a 40-year-old man dead, according to Houston police. Police said Trevor Bergin, 19, was driving the wrong way around 2:30 a.m. at 12000 Highway 90 when his Chevrolet Silverado struck a black Nissan Versa driven by the victim, who died on impact, Houston police said. PORTER Jennifer Wilsons red-brick house in this eastern Montgomery County town has flooded three times, and she recently finished restoring the home after Hurricane Harvey. It was just starting to feel homey again, said Wilson. Wilson picked up her daughter, Sydney, from elementary school on Tuesday afternoon. When she got home 30 minutes later, water was gushing into her neighborhood and was ankle-deep in her yard. By the time the rain subsided, almost two feet stood in her house. STAY INFORMED: Get all the news you need to know to start your day, delivered to your inbox The Porter-New Caney area recorded some of the highest rainfall totals in the region, up to 10 inches, during Tuesdays intense storms. The effects were varied on Wednesday, as some restaurants and other businesses were open as usual while water still stood in some streets and residents described water rising higher than they had ever seen. New Caney ISD closed schools Thursday and Friday. Im tired of being wet Wilson and her husband, Matthew, had been up for hours struggling to get their house back in order. They removed the sopping carpet from the floor. Furniture, clothes and other items were stacked around the blue walls. Water gushed onto the front porch as they rinsed out clothes that were soaked. Wilsons daughter played in the water like it was a river, as her mother waded through it in her sneakers. Im tired of being wet, said Wilson, 35. It took four months after Harvey struck in August 2017 for the Wilsons to replace the carpets in their home. Wilson was just starting to think about remodeling her daughters room. Now, she was waiting to see what the next round of storms would bring, with more heavy rain forecast over the next three days. I have to sit here and hold my breath, said Wilson. HIGH-WATER RESCUES: Readers share photos of severe flooding across Houston Wilson was raised in Porter; her grandmothers house and moms house stand across the street from hers. Shes watched new development, which she believes has contributed to flooding. She thinks a better drainage system in her area would help. Youre building everything up, so the waters gonna go to all the subdivisions around you that are lower because it doesnt have anywhere to go, said Wilson. Man, the sky just fell Jodie Mitchell got off work at Home Depot around the time the rain started on Tuesday. She watched it intensify as she drove to Humble for an errand. Man, the sky just fell, said Mitchell. It was blowing sideways. She had a hard time getting home, but managed to make it back to New Caney without getting stuck on flooded roadways as other drivers did in the area. The 55-year-old grew up on in New Caney, but she had never seen the water rise so high. Her familys property sits near Oakley Elementary School. Like Wilson, she believes new construction in the area has probably made it more flood-prone. No water entered Mitchells home, but she watched it rise closer and closer. Walking around the property, she said water was up to her knees at one point. A quiet scene The scene was much quieter in the Valley Ranch subdivision in Porter. A few people rode their bikes down the sidewalks. One child roller-bladed on the street underneath a cloudy sky that threatened to bring more bad weather. A young girl blew bubbles in her yard. Some neighbors within the subdivision said water flooded the street, but did not make it into their houses. At the Sanders home, water sluiced into the garage. Cale Sanders, a student at Porter High School, had been stuck at the school until 8 p.m. because of the weather. His father, Cale Sanders Sr., echoed the sentiments of others: This was more water than they had seen during Harvey. It never even got past the street during Harvey, said Sanders. brooke.lewis@chron.com Police on Tuesday arrested a 20-year-old man in connection with a series of rapes at San Marcos student housing complexes over the past two weeks. Tyshane Vris Thomas, a former criminal justice student at Texas State University, allegedly confessed to the rapes, as well as one burglary, and was subsequently booked into the Hays County Jail. His bail has not yet been set. FIND OUT FIRST: Get San Antonio breaking news directly to your inbox "This is a stellar example of the outstanding and tireless work done on a daily basis by members of this department," said San Marcos Police Chief Chase Stapp. "It is also a great example of the effective relationships we have with our state and local partners." Thomas is accused in two separate attacks in San Marcos spanning eight days. Investigators believe that in both instances, Thomas sneaked into the victims' apartments through unlocked doors or windows, awaited their return home and then raped them at gunpoint. Authorities were led to Thomas after a concerned citizen called police to report a suspicious backpack containing a handgun and black clothing located in a stairwell at the Sanctuary Lofts in the 300 block of North Street. The backpack had Thomas's name written on it in permanent marker, according to police. When officers opened the backpack, they found a black hoodie, a black mask, a BB pistol fashioned to look like a real handgun and several items of women's clothing, according to police. Due to the name on the backpack, officers identified Thomas and saw he matched the description of the suspect in the aggravated sexual assaults. RELATED: Arrest made in San Marcos rape case as police seek a second suspect in separate attacks Officers contacted him at his apartment at Sanctuary Lofts, where he lived with his girlfriend, and brought him in for further questioning. During the interview, the former Texas State student confessed to the rapes, as well as one burglary. A search warrant later led to the discovery of other items believed to be tied to the attacks: duct tape, zip ties and personal lubricant. The alleged rapes occurred on April 24 and May 2 at the Cottages of San Marcos, 1415 Craddock Ave., and The Retreat, 512 Craddock Ave., respectively. In the first attack, the victim told police she found a masked intruder in her bedroom. The man threatened her with a handgun and then raped her. In the second assault, a woman and her roommate were confronted by a masked intruder upon returning home to their apartment. The rapist threatened them with a handgun, blindfolded them and then sexually assaulted both women for several hours. After he fled, one of the victims reported the attack to police. Thomas's arrest follows that of Keith Vallen Louis III, 27, who is accused in a separate alleged sexual assault on April 29 at The Edge Apartments in the 1700 block of Ranch Road 12. Police said Louis is not connected to the sexual assaults tied to Thomas. Text "NEWS" to 77453 for breaking news alerts from mySA.com Caleb Downs covers crime in San Antonio and Bexar County. Read him on our breaking news site, mySA.com, and on our subscriber site, ExpressNews.com | cdowns@mysa.com | @calebjdowns WASHINGTON (AP) President Donald Trump on Thursday called for an end to "surprise medical bills," the astonishingly high charges insured patients can face when a member of a medical team that treats them is not in their insurer's network. "Not a pleasant surprise," Trump said of bills that arrive in the mail and run to tens of thousands of dollars. "A very unpleasant surprise." ONLY ON HOUSTONCHRONICLE.COM: Why the powerful Texas Medical Association is against bipartisan legislation to end surprise emergency room billing The administration threw its support behind efforts by lawmakers of both parties to address the problem, laying out a set of goals for legislation. With polls showing that voters trust Democrats over Republicans on health care, Trump has been hitting pocket-book medical issues that resonate with the middle-class, like prescription drug costs. He was joined at a White House event by patients, one who got a $110,000 bill after a heart attack, and another who got a bill for $17,850 for a test her insurer would have paid $100 for. "So this must end," Trump said. "We're going to hold insurance companies and hospitals totally accountable." The president said he wants to get it done "quickly," and Sen. Lamar Alexander, R-Tenn., chairman of the Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, said he hoped to deliver a bill in July. STAY INFORMED Text CHRON to 77453 to get breaking news alerts by text | Sign up to receive breaking news alerts delivered to your email here. See More Collapse Just before Trump spoke, the Democratic and Republican leaders of a key House committee said they are ready to move on legislation. "No family should be left in financial ruin through no fault of their own, which is why we have been working together on a bipartisan solution to protect patients that we hope to announce soon," Energy and Commerce Chairman Frank Pallone, D-N.J., and ranking Republican Greg Walden, R-Ore., said in a joint statement. The panel oversees the health insurance industry. Pallone and Walden are not alone; more than a half-dozen senators and representatives have floated ideas or drafted legislation. Rep. Lloyd Doggett, D-Texas, chairman of the Ways and Means health panel, has a bill. Sens. Bill Cassidy, R-La., and Michael Bennet, D-Colo., collaborated on a bipartisan proposal, and other plans come from New Hampshire Democratic Sens. Maggie Hassan and Jeanne Shaheen. "Surprise" bills amounting to tens of thousands of dollars can hit patients and their families when they are most vulnerable after a medical emergency or following a complex surgical procedure. Often patients are able to negotiate lower charges by working with their insurers and the medical provider. But the process usually takes months, adding stress and anxiety. Sometimes it doesn't work out and the bills are sent to collection agencies. White House officials outlined a set of principles for legislation that Trump can back: Patients who receive emergency care should not be hit with charges that exceed the amount paid to in-network providers. In an emergency, patients are in no position to check whether their insurers have contracted with the surgeons or anesthesiologists who provide care. Patients going in for a scheduled procedure should get upfront information about whether their clinicians are in their insurer's network and what costs they will face. Patients should not get out-of-network bills from a provider they did not pick. Fixes should not add to federal health care costs. States also have been working to protect consumers from surprise medical bills. A survey of states by Georgetown University found that about half have acted to protect consumers. California, Connecticut, Florida and a handful of others, have the most comprehensive protections. But states don't have jurisdiction over most health plans sponsored by large employers, which cover about 100 million people and operate under the umbrella of a federal law. ONLY ON HOUSTONCHRONICLE.COM: Decade of promises fail to halt surprise medical bills crushing thousands of Texans. A coalition that includes major insurers, business groups and consumer organizations has been pressing Congress for federal legislation. The basic elements would include informing patients when a doctor or service provider is out-of-network, setting a federal standard for what out-of-network clinicians can charge, and guaranteeing that the changes do not lead to premium increases. A major hang-up has been agreeing on payment rates for out-of-network services that are mutually acceptable to medical specialists, hospitals and insurers, who have conflicting interests. Another sticking point is the role of arbitration in settling billing issues. Some doctors' groups favor arbitration, but White House officials who spoke with reporters Thursday said they're not keen on it. Trump's move was applauded by America's Health Insurance Plans, the main industry trade group. The Federation of American Hospitals, which represents for-profit institutions, expressed support for the goal of ending surprise billing, but cautioned against some proposed fixes. Insurers form networks of doctors and hospitals, in part, to gain some leverage for negotiating reimbursements. Usually patients pay a bigger share of the bill for any care sought outside those networks. But sometimes, patients don't know they got care outside of their network until they get their bill. Jack Hoadley, a research professor emeritus at Georgetown, told lawmakers last month that unexpected medical bills are a major concern for consumers, with two-thirds of Americans saying they are "very worried" or "somewhat worried" that they or someone in their family will receive a surprise bill. He said programs like Medicare, Medicaid and veterans care protect consumers from out-of-network bills. But the same protections do not exist for most private insurance. A.O. PRIMARIA MEA este in cautare de o companie IT sau de un intreprinzator individual pentru crearea si dezvoltarea unei pagini web a organizatiei In 1970, the Canadian cultural theorist Marshall McLuhan famously predicted that World War III, when it comes, will be a guerrilla information war with no division between military and civilian participationa war waged in cyberspace, not on a defined battlefield. His prediction resonates with anyone trying to make sense of our opaque information environment, especially reporters and editors who now find themselves as drafted frontline recruits. For journalists, this era of information warfare presents both a personal and an existential threat. It also presents a myriad of new questions about how the rules and ethics applied to journalism should change. To lean again on McLuhan: Electrical information devices for universal, tyrannical womb-to-tomb surveillance are causing a very serious dilemma between our claim to privacy and the communitys need to know. According to research by Amnesty International, women across the political spectrum face frequent online harassment, and for women of color that harassment is exponentially worse. Reporters who investigate extremism have found their own information and the identities of their families posted online, and their editors and colleagues harassed. Outside the US, the troll armies of authoritarian governments swarm against critical press, as Rappler founder Maria Ressa found out in the Philippines when President Rodrigo Duterte activated a Facebook horde against her. What happens online is moving, increasingly, into the real world. As we have seen in a number of mass shootings recently, the interplay between online messaging and offline actions create new realm of danger and difficulty for reporters. Ethical newsrooms train reporters how to keep themselves and their sources safe in physically hostile environments. The new challenge for newsrooms is extending those practices to cyberspace, as both journalists and their sources risk online and offline consequences that flow from their work. The root of the problem is well known but the solutions are underdeveloped. Companies like Facebook and Google have made billions of dollars from platform designs that make it easy to publish but difficult to detect misinformation. Fake news, fake accounts, bots, real accounts that look like bots, doxxing, trolling, propaganda, targeted harassment, hidden influence, and the vast umbrella of misinformation have occupied much of our media and political coverage of the past two years. And there is more to come. Artificial intelligence allows for many more automated activities which will reshape communications in a more profound way than even the mobile social web. We can scare ourselves with the possibilities of deep fake videos, the hyper realistic representations of people and places generated instantly to fool our senses. Facebook unveiled its war room for the upcoming European elections at its Dublin European headquarters this week. Leaving aside the fact of the public relations theater, its remarkable that an American company now recognizes itself as a potential single point of failure in an international election. Every part of the news process is affected in some way by the externalities of a digital environment, from the funding models and reporting processes to hiring practices and diversity of participation. Journalisms editorial codes and training are lagging behind reality. In a compelling essay, The Digital Maginot Line, misinformation expert Renee DiResta describes the problem of information security measures often fighting the last war: Sign up for CJR 's daily email in the United States, for example, we remain focused on Election 2016 and its Russian bots. As a result, we are investing in a set of inappropriate and ineffective responses: a digital Maginot Line constructed on one part of the battlefield as a deterrent against one set of tactics, while new tactics manifest elsewhere in real time Few newsrooms have systematic verification practices in place, and most do not have an ethics policy for the use of artificial intelligence. Recent research from the Tow Center also reveals that, of 48 newsrooms surveyed, only one had put any thought into how to archive distributed digital material. Understanding the threats to credibility, to access and to safety of ourselves and the public record is just the beginning. Putting in place security and ethical practices that make journalism more than an ineffectual trench in the coming information wars will be the challenge of a generation. Has America ever needed a media watchdog more than now? Help us by joining CJR today Emily Bell is a frequent CJR contributor and the director of Columbias Tow Center for Digital Journalism. Previously, she oversaw digital publishing at The Guardian. At UNC Charlotte in North Carolina on Tuesday, April 30, a 22-year-old man allegedly shot six people in his anthropology class with a handgun, wounding four and killing two. Three days earlier, on the last day of Passover, in Poway, California, a 19-year-old man walked into a synagogue with what police described as an AR-type assault weapon and now stands accused of killing a 60-year-old woman and injuring another congregant, the rabbi, and an 8-year-old girl. The motive of the suspect in the UNC Charlotte murders is not publicly known. The New York Times wrote that the local chief of police had refused to discuss the topic with its reporters, but that he had indicated the accused killers choice of target was not random. The motive of the suspect in Poway is clear, not least from the manifesto he left online before the shootingwhich circulated in paraphrase and quotation by the press, and in full on social media and on the growing number of white nationalist outlets, which are especially prominent on YouTube. He wanted to be associated with other racist murderers: the Christchurch mosque killer, the Tree of Life synagogue killer, and, of course, Hitler. He distributed his manifesto on internet troll hive 8chan; and he planned to livestream the murders on Facebook, though he failed. There remains significant disagreement among journalists who cover the far right over how to portray killers seeking notoriety, and the organizations that inspire and abet them, sometimes with journalistic pretensions. In CJR, Tow Center director Emily Bell described the increasingly popular idea of stochastic terrorism: Where there is a saturation of inflammatory rhetoric about ideology or particular groups, the theory goes, it becomes statistically likely that some lone wolf will take the bait, Bell wrote. As Joan Donovan, a researcher with Harvard Kennedys Shorenstein Center, told CJRs Mathew Ingram, trusted information brokers, like journalists and news organizations, are important targets for piggybacking misinformation campaigns into the public sphere. Donovan has closely studied coverage of the Klan 1960s and 70s; many reporters in that period agreed not to cover Klan rallies or show photos of people wearing Klan hoods and frocks. So should journalists take the same approach when covering what seems to be a resurgence of hate groups in America? The options span the spectrum, from simply ignoring them, even when they commit terrible crimes, to characterizing them as contemptible bigots whose influence extends only to small groups of credulous people. On the one hand, perhaps they should be characterized as neighborly types, whose desire for ethnic cleansing lies below a veneer of politeness, or, on the other, straight-up crazed psychopaths. Should journalists adopt the tactics of nonprofits such as the Southern Poverty Law Center and anarchist and anti-fascist media outlet Its Going Down, which devote more resources to confirming and publishing the real names of pseudonymous racist leaders than they do to parsing their motivations? At a discussion held before the Poway shooting by the Tow Center for Digital Journalism, where I am editor, photojournalist Glenna Gordon strongly advocated for the pathetic-losers approach, mentioning an image in which one of her subjects arranged his breakfast into the shape of a Nazi symbol. They want you to see them as a unified bloc of scary people, when really its douchebags making a swastika out of french toast at a diner, she said. Sign up for CJR 's daily email Nina Berman, also a decorated photojournalist, averred. Whether the groups were small and badly organized or not, she said, they are still often violent. Berman also cited one other significant danger in ignoring the motivations and arguments of people bent on ethnic cleansing. The alt-right is making their own platforms and their own media, she said. I think theres the assumption that if you dont report it, they wont know about it. And I think thats a flawed assumption, Berman tells CJR. And when I say, Dont report it, I mean the press outlets of integrity and journalistic standards, because other people will report on it, on their own groups and message boards. So who are you actually denying that information to? Berman warned against exoticizing the far right when it comes to limiting coverage. My sense from what Ive read is that any kind of shooter wants power, exposure and some sort of celebrity, whether thats the Virginia Tech shooter or the Columbine kids or somebody with a racist or anti-semitic intention, she says. Coverage of right-wing violence invariably addresses the outlets that aid young men in their radicalization, whether it is neo-Nazi news and discussion groups like Stormfront or simply message board chatter on 8chan, 4chan, Gab, and Reddit. Activists have pushed to deplatorm the high-profile players in this world, which has hurt Stormfront in particular. But others whose work extremists cite as influential, such as Steven Crowder, Breitbart wunderkind Milo Yiannopoulos, and former InfoWars editor Paul Joseph Watson, operate on platforms like YouTube and Instagram, where there are lax content policies and only sporadic monitoring. Those policies are not lax by accident, Vices Tess Owen pointed out at the event. If they crack down on white nationalists, theyd have to crack down on Republican lawmakers, because white nationalists are talking like Republicans, and Republican lawmakers are talking like white nationalists, she said. We might hesitate to call a politician a racist because of the implications, and thats a challenge for journalists as well. That challenge is made more difficult by closer commerce than most journalists like to admit between far-right news outlets that advocate for ethnic cleansing and political intellectuals at major publications. Many vocal white supremacists have bylines at respected outlets such as The National Review and The American Conservative; Peter Brimelow, founder of anti-immigrant website VDare, was an editor at the Review, now he publishes fellow white supremacists John Derbyshire and Steve Sailer, both Review veterans. Jason Kessler, who organized the Unite The Right rally in Charlottesville where an attendee murdered protestor Heather Heyer, wrote for The Daily Caller several times; Scott Greer, who contributed under a pseudonym to neo-Nazi Richard Spencers Radix Journal, was an editor at the Caller. Some of these publications jettisoned some of the men mentioned above, but in most cases, their names still sit next to those of mainstream conservative columnists, guest essayists, and editors at the Wall Street Journal, the New York Times, the Washington Post and elsewhere. Its the job of journalists to call attention to these connections, especially when they affect the professional networks in which they themselves operate. Katie McHugh, a semi-remorseful ex-Breitbart and Daily Caller writer, told BuzzFeeds Rosie Gray that by invoking the late Joe Sobran, a writer fired from The National Review for anti-Semitism, she was awarded a fellowship from George Masons Institute for Humane Studies (IHS). The director of IHSs journalism program, John Elliott, wrote to McHugh approvingly, saying he had been a friend of Sobrans, and granted her the fellowship; he later introduced her to arguably the worlds most prominent Holocaust denier, David Irvingalso a Sobran partisanwith whom she remained in contact. Elliott found her an internship at the Caller. Asked about introducing McHugh to Irving, Elliott told Gray he didnt necessarily agree with Irving but found him interesting and controversial. Describing the extremity of the views of white nationalists is crucial to the coverage of the far right, according to Berman. It needs to be put in written context that these people believe in the annihilation and separation of nonwhite, non-Christian people, she said. Has America ever needed a media watchdog more than now? Help us by joining CJR today Sam Thielman is the former Tow editor at the Columbia Journalism Review, and a reporter and critic based in New York. He is the creator, with film critic Alissa Wilkinson, of Young Adult Movie Ministry, a podcast about Christianity and movies, and his writing has been featured in The Guardian, Talking Points Memo, and Variety, among others. LANSING, Mich. Michigans Senate passed legislation Tuesday aimed at cutting the countrys highest average auto insurance premiums by eliminating a requirement that drivers buy unlimited medical benefits to cover crash injuries. No other U.S. state has such a mandate. Motorists could instead choose among lower levels of personal injury protection, including no coverage if they have other qualifying insurance. The Republican-backed measure won largely party-line Senate approval on a 24-14 vote, but Democratic Gov. Gretchen Whitmer pledged to veto it without changes. It preserves a corrupt system where insurance companies are allowed to unfairly discriminate in setting rates and the only cuts it guarantees are to drivers coverage, she said in a statement. I am only interested in signing a reform bill that is reasonable, fair and protects consumers and this is not it. Legislative stalemates have blocked such overhauls from passing before. The current systems really failing Michigan drivers and families, said Republican Sen. Aric Nesbitt of Lawton, the bill sponsor who pointed to a recent study showing that the states estimated annual premium of $2,610 is almost double the national average. Thousands of Michiganders have been priced out of driving, and thousands more risk driving without insurance. The measure also would stop car insurers from having to pay much more than health insurers do for the same medical services _ another factor driving overall claim costs _ crack down on fraud with a task force and make other changes such as limiting judge shopping by people who sue insurers. The GOP-led House is working to craft legislation, too, while Whitmer has ordered her administration to study how insurers use non-driving factors such as education levels to price premiums. The Senate plan faced Democratic criticism because it would not include a mandated rate rollback, nor would it eliminate the use of credit scores or other non-driving components in rate-setting. I dont think anybody in the state benefits if we reduce the coverage and your costs stay the same, especially for such a drastic reduction in PIP coverage, said Sen. Mallory McMorrow of Royal Oak. Nesbitt said a government-ordered reduction is not needed because insurers costs would be lowered under the proposed law and they would have to justify their new rates to the state Department of Insurance and Financial Services and stay competitive with other insurance carriers. Under the bill, drivers could opt out of personal injury coverage or choose between at least two required offerings from insurers _ $50,000 (including $200,000 only for emergency trauma care immediately after a crash) or $250,000 total. Insurers could offer lower or higher amounts of coverage, though unlimited benefits would effectively go away prospectively because the Michigan Catastrophic Claims Association would no longer reimburse insurers for medical costs exceeding $580,000 for new or renewed policies. Nesbitt estimated the per-vehicle fee that drivers pay toward the MCCA _ which will rise to a record $220 annually this summer _ would drop to $40. Premium prices could fall by between 14% and 46% depending on what PIP plan motorists choose, he said. Health providers, plaintiffs lawyers and patient advocates joined Democrats in opposing the legislation, calling it a giveaway to the insurance industry. Instead of rushing to eliminate essential care for critically injured accident victims, Michigan legislators should be looking at increasing consumer protections and holding the auto insurance industry accountable for its discriminatory practices, said John Cornack, president of the Coalition Protecting Auto No-Fault. The Michigan Chamber of Commerce, however, applauded senators for tackling what it called the primary cost-drivers of high rates. Auto insurers complain that they are forced to pay hospitals and other providers way more than health insurers do, and those expenses are passed on to drivers. The bill would create a fee schedule similar to what exists for workers compensation injuries. Rep. Jason Wentworth, a Clare Republican who chairs a special House panel working to cut rates, said it will combine its findings with the Senate plan and deliver results together very soon. The Senate vote came against the backdrop of increasing angst over the states expensive premiums. Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan and others filed a lawsuit last year asking the 1973 no-fault law to be declared unconstitutional for failing to provide fair and equitable insurance rates. Detroit businessman Dan Gilbert has talked about backing a 2020 ballot initiative if lawmakers do not act. Two Democrats from Detroit joined with GOP senators to support the bill Tuesday. Senate Insurance and Banking Committee Chairwoman Lana Theis, a Brighton Republican, said residents are very, very angry over paying the nations highest premiums. We mandate they buy unlimited lifetime medical insurance whether they want it or not, she said. They have choice in every other area of their lives except this one. Copyright 2021 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Want to spruce up your downtown, or maybe get $10 million to support workforce training at the local college? How about investments to help rebuild aging ports and establish trust funds for your fisherman? A U.S. unit of Denmarks Orsted A/S is now dangling all of those perks in its push to be an early developer of offshore wind in a potential $70 billion East Coast market. The target of the largesse: Community groups with political muscle, the ability to shape public sentiment and access to lawyers. The flood of incentives follows the 2017 death of the $2.6 billion Cape Wind project in Massachusetts after a decade-long battle fueled by complaints of spoiled shoreline views and disrupted fisheries. While some fisherman remain skeptical, the promised payouts are clearly lining up local advocates. Were over the moon, said Michael Passero, the mayor of New London, Connecticut. Weve been down on our luck for decades. This is capturing a whole new energy industry to the region. Offshore wind will become as important as whaling was back in the day. The package drawing Passeros raves: $93 million to upgrade the State Pier in New London so it can handle the heavy-lift requirements of offshore turbines, as well as a $3 million upgrade to the areas fishing vessel harbor. The first large project for U.S. waters will include 84 turbines to produce 800 megawatts 14 miles off of Marthas Vineyard. While Orsted, Vineyard Wind and other developers have outlined their plans for leases theyve purchased in U.S. auctions, none will be built without contracts to sell the power they produce. New York plans to announce within weeks its first contracts for 800 megawatts of wind power, enough to power about 160,000 homes. By 2030, New York is expected to have 7,730 megawatts under contract from wind power. In New Jersey, the goal is 3,500 megawatts, in Massachusetts its 3,200, Connecticut is 2,000 and Rhode Island is 1,000 megawatts. That would represent a $70 billion investment over a decade. The distance from the shore for the Vineyard Wind project is, in some ways, yet another community perk. The turbines will be difficult to see from Marthas Vineyard and invisible from Montauk Point on Long Island, the developer has said, taking away at least one complaint that helped kill Cape Wind, the Massachusetts project designed to sit just five miles offshore. Naysayers Remain Still, naysayers remain, primarily among groups concerned that the giant turbines planned will disrupt fisheries. In Rhode Island, the debate spurred a split within the fishing community, roughly turning on the projects possible effects on lobsters versus squids. In February, the Rhode Island Fishermens Advisory Board approved a plan for a $1 million initial payout to fishermen during the first year of construction, and another $3.2 million over the next 29 years. The developers also promised to create a 5-year, $12.5 million trust fund to cover any additional costs, with an independent board to determine outlays. A rival group, however, complained the plan didnt consider the possible effect on squid, a moneymaker for local fisherman who supply the fish to be made into calamari. Theyre basically all lobstermen, and were paid well to conduct a fishery science project, said Richard Fuka, head of the Rhode Island Fishermans Alliance. Theyll chase the squid away. No agreement could have meant we wouldve lost everything, said Grover Fugate, head of the states Coastal Resources Management Council, which approved the plan. None of the fishermen were completely happy with the agreement, Fugate said by phone. But theres no indication any single type of fish would be more affected, he said. One small pilot project, meanwhile, has already been constructed, a 30-megawatt, five-turbine operation that began operations in December 2016 off the coast of Rhode Island. Now, the climate-focused governors of New York and New Jersey have taken the first steps to expand the offshore market. New Yorks Andrew Cuomo in January tripled his states plan for wind systems to 9 gigawatts, which would be about a third of the states energy draw. Hes also offered $200 million in port upgrades to install them. New Jerseys Phil Murphy jumped in with an accelerated schedule to get 3,500 megawatts, and opened a supply chain registry to aid developers and lure manufacturers. We need to lift our heads up and feel the winds, and realize that is where our future is leading us, Murphy said at a recent industry conference in New York. New Jersey stands ready to follow those winds together with you. Developers are delighted for the embrace. Denmarks Orsted, planning its U.S. debut for a decade, was outbid during some of the early auctions for offshore leases. So they paid $510 million to buy a Rhode Island-based competitor Deepwater Wind LLC, the builder of the only offshore wind farm in U.S. waters. In New York, Orsted is offering to help revitalize the village of Port Jefferson on Long Islands North Shore, and promising a $10 million investment in Suffolk County Community College to train future technicians. For Rhode Island, the promise is to maintain a headquarters there and invest in its ports. In addition to helping out fishermen, ports and schools, developers like Vineyard Wind, a partnership of Avangrid Inc. and Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners, agreed to halt some construction during the migration of the endangered right whale, add buoy monitors and curtail work during nearby whale sightings. Thomas Brostrom, the CEO of Orsted Wind Offshore, moved to the U.S. from London four years ago. He praised the recent efforts by New Jersey and other states to commit to development. The U.S. got the timing exactly right, he said by telephone. The whaling industry lasted about four decades and made Passeros New London one of the richest communities by the late 19th century. Hes now hoping the offshore wind industry can bring a new kind of energy wealth back to the area. Those beautiful old mansions are in need of some repair, Passero said. Hopefully offshore wind will last at least as long as the whales. The Humane Society of the United States has tried for months to stop poultry giant Pilgrims Pride Corp. from calling its chicken 100% natural and humanely raised, claiming its neither. Following complaints to the U.S. Federal Trade Commission and state attorneys general, the animal welfare group has now filed a 100-page administrative complaint with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Once again, the group is arguing that Pilgrims Pride and its parent Brazilian meat processing giant JBS SA are using misleading advertising and marketing to sell its chicken. This time, though, the group claims the language is hurting investors. Pilgrims Pride is deceiving stakeholders concerned about the suffering of animals with false assurances of the animals living conditions and treatment, the Humane Society said, according to a copy of the complaint filed Thursday with the regulator. Poor animal welfare practices are a serious investment riskthat [can] cause negative effects on demand and can cause stock prices to drop. The group also took issue with the companys claims that the chickens are natural, citing crowded conditions in feces-filled barns and a slaughter method that sometimes results in birds being scalded alive. The alleged misleading statements, Humane Society argued in its filing, are violations of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and Commission Rule 10b-5 because they constitute untrue statements of material fact. Pilgrims Pride and the SEC didnt immediately respond to calls or emails seeking comment. Cameron Bruett, a spokesman for Pilgrims Pride, has previously rejected the Humane Societys allegations. Pilgrims is committed to the well-being of the poultry under our care, Bruett wrote in an email in December. We welcome the opportunity to defend our approach to animal welfare against these false allegations. The $6.85 billion company is one of the largest chicken producers in the U.S., and sells its birds all over the world. With revenue close to $11 billion, Pilgrims Pride estimates that it produces nearly 1 out of every 5 chickens in the country, and has the capacity to process more than 45 million birds each week. Last month, in response to the Humane Societys claims, the FTC declined to take formal action against Greeley, Colorado-based Pilgrims Pride or JBS. In an April 1 letter to the company, a copy of which was obtained by Bloomberg, the federal agency noted that Pilgrims Pride told the FTC that it had removed the claims at issue from its websites as part of a previously planned redesign. Bruett said at the time that the website revamp project was unrelated to the complaint. The Humane Society, however, notes that not all of the claims at issue were taken down. The Humane Society told the SEC that claims remaining on the website include Pilgrims strongly supports the humane treatment of animals [and] maintains a strict animal welfare program, and Pilgrims works closely with our grower partners, customers, and other industry stakeholders to humanely raise and process the birds under our care. It is starting to feel like HSUS is tossing spaghetti against the wall and hoping something sticks. The HSUS said in its filing that several undercover investigationsincluding one at a Pilgrims Pride slaughterhouse in Mt. Pleasant, Texas, and one at a Pilgrims Pride contract growing facility in Hull, Georgiashowed that products Pilgrims advertises as humane came from conditions that were anything but. The investigations showed broiler chickens raised in unnatural and cruel conditions, cramped together, and treated horrifically in the process leading to their slaughter. The group said the SEC has jurisdiction in part because an informed consumer base is an essential condition for a free and fair marketplace and protects investors from risks related to misinformation, especially in deceptive advertising. Misleading stakeholders about the level of welfare a company provides creates enormous investment risk; when exposed, retailers, restaurants and individual consumers can seek alternative sources for products and/or alternative products and the companys stock can plummet. SEC enforcement complaints like the one filed by HSUS can result in injunctions, financial penalties or the disgorgement of money resulting from the conduct at issue. In its complaint, Humane Society asked only that the regulator investigate the issue and stop Pilgrims and JBS from making the claims at issue. Ideally, said Peter Brandt, managing attorney of the Humane Societys farm animals litigation arm, wed like them to improve their practices. In March, HSUS sent letters to the attorneys general of Massachusetts, Florida, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Washington, Illinois and Maryland, urging them to open investigations of their own. The company, it argued, was misleading consumers in their states with their animal welfare claims. Today, the organization expanded that list to attorneys general in Arizona, Colorado, Michigan, New Mexico, Vermont, Wisconsin and Rhode Island, as well as the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs in the District of Columbia. Brandt said the organizations shotgun approach to seeking enforcementstates, the FTC and now the SECis simply pragmatism. There are multiple agencies at the state and federal level that would have jurisdiction over the companys statements, he said. The group will go to as many of them as we think is prudent. Some see HSUSs effort in less charitable terms. This latest effort is a testament to persistence or desperation (or both), depending upon your perspective, attorney John E. Villafranco, who practices advertising law at Kelley Drye & Warren LLP, wrote in an email. But no matter how you look at it, it is starting to feel like HSUS is tossing spaghetti against the wall and hoping something sticks. CLEVELAND, Ohio Encouraging growth in Little Italy while respecting the neighborhoods was the discussion topic Thursday at a Cleveland Landmarks Commission meeting. The gathering drew dozens of attendees and passionate, sometimes contentious, debate on a proposed apartment project in Little Italy. Ultimately, the commission voted 6-2 against a proposal from Hemingway Development and Property Advisors Group to build a 50-unit apartment building at Cornell and Murray Hill roads. It was the latest setback for developers, who were sent back to the drawing board by Landmarks at an initial meeting in March and who have had significant pushback from Little Italy residents. The past year, developers and architects have reworked the plan in response to residents feedback. They have scrapped plans to demolish three houses on Murray Hill, reduced the height of the building, and scaled back the number of units to incorporate more two- and three-bedroom apartments that could accommodate families. The latest plans for a proposed apartment building at Cornell and Murray Hill roads in Little Italy (LDA Architects).LDA Architects Still, many neighborhood residents said the building would not fit into the neighborhood, mostly due to its size. Residents also have objected to plans to tear down two houses at 2189 and 2193 Cornell Road to make way for the new building. Thursdays meeting didnt get to a ruling on the proposed demolitions, as the commission rejected the developers plans for the project as a whole. But, three commission members noted that a visit to the houses on Wednesday led them to conclude the structures are in fair condition and do not need to be demolished. Poppies grown in the backyard of two homes on Cornell Rd. that are slated for demolish. Developers are proposing a multi-level apartment building at the corner of Cornell Road and Murray Hill Road. (Gus Chan/The Plain Dealer)The Plain Dealer Among the commission members who voted against the proposal was city planning Director Freddy Collier, Jr. He said that while Mayor Frank Jacksons administration has promoted development and urban density in many other cases, residents concerns about development need to be considered. I drove up in Little Italy [Wednesday]. I saw a lot of development. I saw this commission approve a lot of that development, Collier said. The community has come out and theyve been very adamant about their disdain for more investment at this time, and it would be, I think, rude of us as public servants and as the administration not to have a sensitive ear to that. City Councilman Blaine Griffin, Ward 6, who represents the neighborhood, also spoke in opposition to the project, saying his position stems from Little Italy being one of the last ethnic enclaves in the city of Cleveland and his desire to protect the historical context of the area. Washington Place Bistro & Inn is one of four businesses on the corner of Cornell and Murray Roads. Developers are proposing a multi-level apartment building at the corner of Cornell Road and Murray Hill Roads. (Gus Chan/The Plain Dealer) The Plain Dealer Among those in support of the developers plan was Carmen Petrello, who owns one of the Cornell Road houses the developer would have demolish. Petrello said he has lived in Little Italy for more than 50 years, and is now looking to sell his property to prepare for a move from the East Side neighborhood. Little Italy will always be there. Its never going anywhere. The Feast [of Assumption] will go on year after year, he said. I hope were not swayed by the guise of the building size, when the underlying premise, I believe, is who can and who cannot reside in Little Italy. Thomas Bier, retired director of Cleveland State Universitys Center for Housing Research and Policy, said he supports the project due to a need to grow the citys residential tax base. What comes down to the fundamental condition of a city is its tax base, he said, noting huge tax-base losses over the past several decades, as well as progress building new housing in recent years. My support for this is in terms of continuing the momentum that has been established in the last 10, 20 years in the city. A passerby walks past several homes that have been acquired by developers for renovation on Murray Hill Rd. Developers are proposing a multi-level apartment building at the corner of Cornell Road and Murray Hill Road. (Gus Chan | The Plain Dealer) The Plain Dealer The commission also heard from University Circle Inc. President Chris Ronayne, who characterized decisions such as this as a fight for Cleveland. Today is a difficult conversation, but its one were going to need to have more of as a city in our near future as we attempt to grow again after seven decades of disinvestment, he said. Ronayne spoke in favor of the project and its reworked design, saying, It will never satisfy the resident who said at at our public forum on Monday, We dont want your project in our neighborhood.' Respectfully, we question who is we and what is our? As for whats next, Michael Panzica of Hemingway Development said his team needs to reevaluate its plans. The developers can rework the proposal and bring it back to Landmarks if they choose. My takeaway is that there is willingness to compromise, and weve shown a willingness to do that all along, with many iterations, Panzica said. We need to reevaluate. Obviously it needs to make economic sense, but were certainly not shutting the door." The current view of the proposed development site from Murray Hill (LDA Architects).LDA Architects This rendering shows the view from Murray Hill with a three-story building in the background (LDA Architects).LDA Architects CLEVELAND, Ohio A proposed Little Italy apartment project is going before the Cleveland Landmarks Commission on Thursday. The plan, however, is not without opposition from neighbors. Developers want to tear down two houses on Cornell Road to make way for an apartment building at Cornell and Murray Hill roads. The plan has evolved over the past several months as neighborhood residents raised concerns. The project, led by developers Hemingway Development and Property Advisors Group, was sent back to the drawing board by the Landmarks Commission after a meeting in late March where members agreed with residents comments about the projects scale being too large. Poppies grown in the backyard of two homes on Cornell Road that are could be slated for demolition. (Gus Chan/The Plain Dealer)The Plain Dealer Based on that feedback, developers tweaked their plans, scaling the project back from an initial proposal of 66 units to 50, and reducing the height of the building. Even with those changes, however, a neighborhood design-review committee that advises the citys planning and landmarks commissions rejected the design at a meeting Tuesday, and some neighborhood residents say they are still dissatisfied. If the reworked design gets the OK from Landmarks, required because the site is in a historic district, developers would move forward on zoning variances their plans would require. If they do not get approval Thursday, they will continue to work through issues with community members, Michael Panzica of Hemingway Development said. I think weve shown through this process a willingness to work on the design based on comments from the community and Landmarks, he said. So we would hope that would continue if we were to not get approval. Project developers reoriented the project and changed the makeup of the apartment units based on community feedback (LDA Architects) Neighborhood pushback Maria Mastrandrea is a lifelong resident of Little Italy whose family connections to the neighborhood stretch back to her great-grandparents. Now living on Fairview Avenue in a historic home she rehabilitated, Mastrandrea says she and others are opposed to the project because it doesnt fit the neighborhood. She would like to see the Cornell Road houses preserved, and is concerned about the design and scale of the apartment building. Additional concerns shared by other Little Italy residents are the introduction of more vehicles when parking is already an issue in the neighborhood, as well as strains on infrastructure. Some would prefer to see development of owner-occupied housing rather than rental units. The city just needs to take a step back on all of this, and think about what the people want. If I wanted to live among big apartment complexes, I would move downtown, Mastrandrea said. People are not opposed to development, we just want it to be appropriate. We want it to be of scale. We want developers to respect the neighborhood, she added. Similar opinions were expressed by more than a dozen residents who spoke during the first Landmarks Commission meeting. One Murray Hill resident likened the apartment building to the Goodyear Blimp landing in a neighborhood. City Councilman Blaine Griffin, Ward 6, who represents the neighborhood, also spoke, siding with residents. A couple of people spoke in favor of the project, saying it would help stem the tide of population loss the neighborhood has experienced. Washington Place Bistro & Inn is one of four businesses on the corner of Cornell and Murray Roads. (Gus Chan/The Plain Dealer) The Plain Dealer Evolving project At the earlier meeting, project leaders noted they had already made "significant changes to their plans based on what theyd heard from residents. Original plans to demolish three houses on Murray Hill were scrapped. Now, developers plan to incorporate those houses, located at 2154, 2158 and 2160 Murray Hill, into the project, with plans to renovate and convert them from rental duplexes into for-sale single-family units. Originally, the building would have been oriented along Murray Hill. But with the decision to leave those houses in place, developers reoriented the project to Cornell. A passerby walks past several homes that have been acquired by developers for renovation on Murray Hill Road. (Gus Chan /The Plain Dealer)The Plain Dealer Based on feedback about the community wanting more family-friendly housing, plans to build mostly one-bedroom units were changed to include more two- and three-bedroom apartments. Rather than having an entrance to a parking garage face Cornell, the design now shows walk-up units on that side of the building. And due to concerns about the buildings height, what was originally designed as a four-story building is now scaled down, with the height ranging from two to four stories at different parts of the structure. We feel as though weve been responsive to their concerns while still having a project thats economically viable, Panzica said. Chris Ronayne, president of University Circle Inc., which has an organizational alliance with the Little Italy Redevelopment Corp., described this type of development as a balancing act. This is about a complete community with a variety of housing choices, where people can live many generations of their life, he said. With this project, we achieve both preservation of the homes on Murray Hill and new vibrancy on Cornell. We very much respect all voices in the community, and this is a delicate balancing act, but in order to continue the vitality of Clevelands neighborhoods, we have to see new buds on the tree. This story is updating. This rendering shows the current view on Murray Hill Road. (LDA Architects) This rendering shows what the view would look like with a three-story building in the background. (LDA Architects) CLEVELAND, Ohio Mayor Frank Jackson plans to again take his State of the City message directly to the people again this year, opting to give the address in the evening at Public Auditorium. Jackson took that approach for the first time last October, moving the event from the traditional City Club of Cleveland setting and its downtown business crowd to encourage more Clevelanders to attend. In an announcement Thursday, the mayors office said the 2019 address, Jacksons fourteenth, is scheduled for Oct. 10 at 7 p.m. The mayor said after last years event he was pleased with the new format, particularly because he was able to talk directly of residents and give his message without outside interpretation. He reiterated that in an online video that accompanied Thursdays announcement. I always say if you want to know what I said, just ask me and Ill tell you, Jackson said in the video. Ill be there to tell you what our position as the city is and what the true state of the city is, Jackson said. Where we are now, where the future lies and what were doing to better position Cleveland for that future. Prior to 2018, the State of the City address was a lunchtime affair coordinated through the City Club. The event was well attended -- more than 950 attended the 2017 City Club presentation but the audience was dominated by downtown business people, civic leaders and public officials. Cleveland.com estimated about 550 people attended the first evening version of the event. But afterward the mayor said he was pleased with the format because it allowed greater contact with residents. For an hour before the event and another hour after the speech, was able to mingle with citizens. After the event, he said many expressed their appreciation that they could talk with him directly, rather than learn about the speech through media reports or the grapevine. What I found with this format was ... in particularly talking to the average person who came ... was that even though I was talking about many of the things that Ive talked about in the past, many of them had never heard ... about it, Jackson told cleveland.com after the event. In his announcement Thursday, he encouraged residents to come so they could hear directly from him again. "I encourage people to attend or to tune in (for a live stream broadcast) because a lot of things will be happening between now and Oct. 10, he said. Get insider texts about Cleveland City Hall on your phone from Robert Higgs: Cut through the clutter of social media and communicate directly with cleveland.coms City Hall reporter, just like you would with your friends. Its just $3.99 a month, which works out to about 13 cents a day. Learn more and sign up for a free trial here. CLEVELAND, Ohio Only a dog could love the new fire hydrant on Ohio Avenue, standing smack in the middle of the concrete sidewalk. For two-legged pedestrians, and for folks who use wheelchairs, the placement of the hydrant is the punchline to a bad joke about government contractors. OK, so the hydrant used to be here and they moved it there, and they put the sidewalk in. Yeah, doesnt seem like a very good plan. I dont think so. resident Jack Anderson recently told WOIO CBS 19 News, which first reported on the problem. Contacted Wednesday by cleveland.com, the city water department acknowledged that the Ohio Avenue hydrant, installed injudiciously earlier this year, need to be relocated. Typically, hydrants in residential areas are installed in tree lawns about three feet in from the curb. But along Ohio Avenue in this Ward 1 neighborhood on the East Side, the tree lawn is only a few feet wide. Thats why the hydrant ended up in the sidewalk, water department spokesman John Goersmeyer said. His bet is that the contractor wanted to make sure the hydrant wasnt too close to the street. Ohio Avenues old hydrant had been installed closer to the curb and was knocked over by a car last December. Cleveland has about 18,000 fire hydrants, but not too many are in areas with narrow tree lawns that make installations tricky, Goersmeyer said. In most cases, if a hydrant is positioned in the sidewalk, its in downtown areas without tree lawns. Terrace Construction, which does water main and hydrant repairs for Cleveland and installed the Ohio Avenue hydrant, has agreed to move the hydrant at its own cost. Sorry Fido, but the new location likely will be closer to the curb, part in the tree lawn and part on the edge of the sidewalk, Goersmeyer said. Get insider texts about Cleveland City Hall on your phone from Robert Higgs: Cut through the clutter of social media and communicate directly with cleveland.coms City Hall reporter, just like you would with your friends. Its just $3.99 a month, which works out to about 13 cents a day. Learn more and sign up for a free trial here. BEACHWOOD, Ohio -- Theft, Cedar Road: At 7:35 p.m. May 7, police arrested a woman at Dillards, 26300 Cedar Road at Beachwood Place mall, for stealing 48 items worth a total value of $2,715. All of the items were recovered. The Euclid woman, 26, was also charged with criminal trespassing, as she had been involved in a prior theft incident at the mall and had been issued a trespass warning. OVI, Chagrin Boulevard: At 12:10 a.m. May 1, an officer stopped a car for speeding and not driving within marked lanes. It was subsequently found that the driver, a Mayfield woman, 51, was intoxicated. The woman was charged with OVI and for the two traffic infractions, as well as for improperly handling a firearm in a motor vehicle. Marijuana possession, George Zeiger Drive: At 10:40 p.m. May 2, an officer stopped a car that was speeding. It was then learned that the driver, a Bedford Heights woman, 26, was driving with a suspended license and was in possession of marijuana. Marijuana possession, South Green Road: At 10:15 p.m. May 2, an officer stopped a car that did not have two working headlights. The driver, a Cleveland man, 21, was found to be in possession of marijuana and to be operating a vehicle without a valid license. The cars passenger, a Euclid man, 25, was cited for marijuana possession. Obstructing official business, Chagrin Boulevard: At 4:10 p.m. May 3, police investigated a drug overdose at a Chagrin Boulevard residence and charged a Chagrin Falls woman, 69, with obstructing official business. The woman allegedly cleaned evidential items at the site of the overdose before police arrived. Domestic violence, Green Road: At 10:35 p.m. May 4, police arrested a Beachwood man, 38, for domestic violence at a Green Road apartment. The mans victims were his wife and daughter. Marijuana possession, Cedar Road: At 2:25 a.m. May 4, after a traffic stop, police cited two men, 27 and 23, for marijuana and drug paraphernalia possession. The older suspect is a Warrensville Heights resident, and the younger suspect, a Maple Heights resident. Also cited for marijuana possession was a Cleveland woman, 19. OVI, Cedar Road: At 3:35 a.m. May 4, an officer stopped a car that was not being driven within marked lanes. It was subsequently learned that the driver, a Euclid man, 31, was intoxicated. The man was charged with OVI and cited for the traffic offense. Marijuana possession, Interstate 271: At 11:40 p.m. May 5, following a traffic stop, an East Cleveland man, 26, was cited for marijuana and drug paraphernalia possession, and for having an open container of alcohol in a motor vehicle. Marijuana possession, Green Road: At 8:30 p.m. May 5, an officer stopped a car for speeding and then learned that the cars driver, a Cleveland man, 25, had a suspended license. The man was cited for driving under suspension, as well as for marijuana and drug paraphernalia possession. OVI, South Woodland Road: At 3:30 a.m. May 6, an officer stopped a car when its driver committed a turning violation. The driver, a Warrensville Heights woman, 29, was subsequently found to be intoxicated. She was charged with OVI and for the traffic violation. Theft, Chagrin Boulevard: At 8:10 p.m. May 6, police arrested a Cleveland man, 58, for stealing merchandise worth $185 from Big Lots, 24295 Chagrin Blvd. The man was charged with theft and his car was impounded. Warrant arrest, Harvard Road: At 9:55 p.m. May 7, an officer stopped a car driven by a Cleveland woman, 28, for not having two working headlights. The woman was found to be driving with a suspended license and to be the subject of multiple police warrants. The woman was arrested on the warrants and cited for the headlight violation, as well as for marijuana and drug paraphernalia possession. If you would like to discuss the police blotter, please visit our crime and courts comments page. See more Sun Press news here. ORANGE, Ohio -- Departmental information, endangering children, personal welfare; Orange Place: Police responded May 3 to a report of a very upset boy, 9, who had been left alone at the Extended Stay South hotel by his mother, who had just gone to work a 12-hour overnight shift at a Beachwood nursing home. The mother, 47, with an address in Euclid, was summoned back to the hotel, where she explained that she generally works a couple of 12-hour overnight shifts a week, and had already worked earlier that day from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. She told police she had checked online and did not believe there was a law against leaving a child home alone while the parent was at work. Police said this was not the case. Cuyahoga County Children and Family Services workers were called in and found no signs of abuse with the child, who said his mother told him before returning to work that if he did not read his book, she would send him away. Police noted that the boy seemed very happy to see his mother return. Suspicion, criminal damaging, endangering; Harvard Road: A Cleveland woman, 28, reported May 2 that as she was having problems with a co-worker at a local winery and restaurant, her mother had borrowed her 2017 Jeep Renegade and was putting gas in it. Thats when she noticed a white grainy substance around the gas cap that appeared to be sugar. The Jeep owner has already accused the co-worker of slashing her tires, and the management is aware of the incident and the dispute between employees. Since the Jeep was still running at that point -- sugar poured in a gas tank will ruin a car's engine -- police recommended taking it to a mechanic for an evaluation as the investigation continues. Theft (shoplifting), suspicion; Park Avenue: A manager at J. Bellezza Boutique, Salon and Beauty Lounge called police May 3 with an update on a suspected shoplifting from the retail shop back on April 20, when $40 worth of product disappeared from a shelf. While the clerk then did not see an actual theft, she saw a woman pick up the product, then reach into her purse, then leave without paying for anything. The staff was instructed on how to deal with future shoplifting incidents. Identity theft, Stonebrooke Oval: A woman reported May 4 that her father, for whom she has power of attorney, may have been coerced into giving personal identity information to a telemarketer. A police report was taken for a credit card company, and the man was not yet missing any funds. Departmental information, Cambridge Court: A resident, 62, reported May 3 that his personal information, along with his son's, was apparently compromised somehow through the Ohio Department of Motor Vehicles. Information was forwarded to the county prosecutor's office for further review. Speeding, marijuana possession; Interstate 271: A Covina, Calif., woman, 29, was stopped around 8 p.m. May 3 driving 83 mph in a 60 mph zone. After an officer smelled suspected marijuana in the car, she turned over about a gram and was cited for that also. If you would like to discuss the police blotter, please visit our crime and courts comments page. For more Chagrin Solon Sun news, click here. NORTH ROYALTON, Ohio -- Join the Duanes for an open house at their new Purple Skies Homestead from 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday, May 19. Tour this first bed and breakfast in North Royalton and is located at 18802 State Road, at the curve between Cady and Wiltshire/Boston Road. David and Visar Duane built their B&B on their natural and sustainable farm, Purple Skies Farm. They specialize in raspberries, strawberries, black currants, garlic and seasonal produce. Come and see the rustic surroundings overlooking a half-acre pond. This is a family-owned and operated farm with a passion for providing one-of-a-kind peaceful experiences. The B&B offers two quaint and cozy overnight suites, where you can rest your head in a comfy, queen-sized bed, relax in your own private bath, watch your favorite programs on TV, and enjoy the beautiful pink and purple sunsets overlooking the pond and acres of private land. In the morning, you will enjoy a fabulous homemade breakfast with locally grown ingredients made especially for you. The B&B welcomes guests from near and far. Additionally, the mountain-style lodge can accommodate groups of up to 30 for showers, business meetings, strategy sessions or any intimate event. Its the perfect place to meet for small gatherings. The Duanes have been residents of North Royalton for over 27 years. The farm and B&B are a long-term dream come true for the family, which has always envisioned bringing a comfortable lodging experience and sustainable farming to the local area. The farm is in its eighth year of production. In addition to berries, the Duanes also grow asparagus, head lettuce, kale, swiss chard, carrots, garlic, tomatoes, radishes, cucumbers, snap peas and beets. They also offer Amish chicken eggs. Room reservations can be made online at PurpleSkiesHomestead.com or contact them at 440-628-1392, PurpleSkiesHomestead@gmail.com. Visit them on Facebook and Instagram, as well. First place: Broadview Heights student Aashvi Kenia took first place in the Ohio History Day Contest. A seventh-grader at Menlo Park Academy in Cleveland, she won first place in the Individual Website category on April 27 at Ohio Wesleyan University. Her website project is called India-Pakistan Partition. Aashvi and the other 10 Menlo Park Academy students who traveled to Columbus for the State Finalist competition were moderated by Menlo Park Academy teacher Frank OGrady. Aashvi is the daughter of Amishi and Mehul Kenia of Broadview Heights. Menlo Park Academy is a tuition-free school for gifted children in grades K-8. For more information, visit www.menloparkacademy.com. Menlo is located at 2149 W. 53rd St., Cleveland. Memorial Day: Memorial Day is very special in Brecksville. Its not only the first holiday weekend of the summer season, but in Brecksville, Memorial Day is truly honored by many residents for what it was meant to be -- a time when the community comes together in large numbers to honor the brave women and men who have given their lives in the service of our country and in the preservation of our freedom. The Memorial Day observance will begin at 10:30 a.m. Monday, May 27, with the traditional parade that steps off at City Hall and ends at Highland Drive Cemetery. The parade will include the Brecksville-Broadview Heights High School Marching Band and the carrying of the citys 20-foot-by-38-foot American flag. It takes 30 people to carry the flag. If you would like to help carry it, please call Human Services at 440-526-2499. Residents traditionally follow the end of the parade to the cemetery for the program of remembrance, which immediately follows the parade. Playing a prominent role in the parade and cemetery service each year are members of Brecksvilles American Legion Excelsior Post 196 and the Womens Auxiliary unit. Another important aspect of Memorial Day each year is that Mayor Jerry Hruby takes special pride in honoring Brecksville soldiers, sailors and airmen by inviting all veterans, reservists and active duty personnel to walk in the parade wearing all or a portion of their uniforms. At the Highland Drive Cemetery observance, all veterans and present-day military personnel are asked to step forward and be recognized by those attending. They are always met with warm applause and appreciation by the audience for their service and dedication to our country. Refreshments will be served at the fire station after the cemetery program by the Brecksville Womens Club. Hruby urges community groups to join the parade. Contact Kate Kristen Kouri at the mayors office at 440-526-4351 to participate. Senior volunteers of the year: The Brecksville Human Services Center, in conjunction with the Brecksville Kiwanis Club, will honor the Senior Volunteers of the Year at the 47th annual awards luncheon at noon Tuesday, May 21, at the Brecksville Human Services Center. Mayor Jerry Hruby will present citations to the honorees and the Kiwanis Club will present special gifts. Tickets are $15 each and can be purchased at the Human Services Center at 2 Community Drive, next to the Community Center. Call 440-526-2499 for more information. Let the Brecksville, Broadview Heights and North Royalton communities know what is going on with your organization, church, school, business or family. Email me at shirleymac48@att.net. RICHMOND HEIGHTS, Ohio -- Suspicion, Edgemont Road: Officers responded to a home May 3 for a report of a house that had been burglarized. They arrived and found everything was OK and there had been no burglary. The resident said he believes someone was spoofing his phone number to make prank phone calls. Juvenile complaints, Monticello Boulevard: A CVS employee reported May 2 that two boys who had been banned from the store were in the parking lot. The 13-year-old boys ran when they saw officers approaching, but were located on Donald Avenue. They were returned to their families and given a six-month ban from CVS. Disturbance, Richmond Park Drive West: A Bedford woman, 28, and Euclid woman, 25, were cited for disorderly conduct May 3 after they fought with each other in the parking lot of the 444 Park apartments. Impaired driving, Richmond Road: Officers responded to Speedway May 4 for a report of an unresponsive man in a vehicle at a gas pump. The 56-year-old resident subsequently failed sobriety tests and was arrested for OVI. Fraud, Richmond Park Drive West: A resident said April 30 that someone had fraudulently made two unauthorized online purchases from her checking account. Her bank is investigating the incident. Hit-skip, Highland Road: Officers observed a vehicle around 10 p.m. April 30 that had been involved in a hit-skip accident. The suspected vehicle was located at a Trebisky Road residence. A man, 59, has been charged and the incident is under investigation. Unruly juvenile, Dickens Drive: Officers responded to a residence May 1 for a report of a foster child throwing and breaking things in the home. A caseworker subsequently came to the home and took the girl, 11, to another foster home for the evening. Reports indicate she has a history of mental health issues. Disturbance, Highland Road: Officers responded to Subway May 1 for a report of a drunken man inside the store causing a disturbance and arguing with customers. They located him inside the neighboring Taste of China business. He was not drunk and said he had been arguing with a manager about poor service. Officers advised him not to return to the store. Harassing communication, Richmond Park Drive East: A manager at the 444 Park apartments reported May 2 that a tenant she had evicted has been calling and threatening her. An officer contacted the woman, 37, and advised her not to return to the property or contact the management office. She hung up on the officer. Criminal trespassing, Nan Linn Drive: A woman said May 2 that her ex-husband has been trespassing on her property and going through her mail. She said she observed him doing so on her video doorbell. She said he continues to use her address as his own and refuses to change it. Officers contacted the man, 62, and advised him not to return to the property or he could be arrested for trespassing. Read more news from the Sun Messenger here. If you would like to discuss the police blotter, please visit our crime and courts comments page. MEDINA, Ohio -- Medina schoolchildren are taking to the streets and sidewalks as they participate in this years Bike to School Challenge. Medina City Schools, with the help of Century Cycles, is challenging students in all of its elementary and middle schools to bike to school for a week. A total of nine schools are participating. H.G. Blake Elementary, Sidney Fenn Elementary, Eliza Northrop Elementary, Ralph E. Waite Elementary and A.I. Root Middle schools are taking the challenge this week (May 6-10), while Ella Canavan Elementary, Garfield Elementary, Heritage Elementary and Claggett Middle schools will participate next week (May 13-17). Bob Soroky of Century Cycles said it's great to see the impact the event has each year on students. So many kids participate and they have such a fun time doing it, he said. How can you not enjoy it?" Soroky said the goal of the event is to promote a healthy lifestyle by encouraging children to go outside and get exercise. The event encourages children to ride to and from school with their friends, and enters them in raffles for prizes if they participate. The elementary school kids are the ones that get the biggest kick out of it, Soroky said. So thats where we see the most success with it, especially here in Medina. Each school will raffle off one bike each for both a boy and a girl. Students who ride to school four out of the five days will be entered into the raffle, with a second entry if they wear their helmets. Students who ride all five days will get an additional entry. Students will also earn smaller prizes for riding throughout the week, including coupons for free food from sponsors for riding on certain days, or free T-shirts to commemorate the week. The event has been held in Medina for a few years, but last year was the first year that all of the elementary and middle schools participated. Soroky said he was surprised by the turnout for many of the schools first year. Everyone was all excited about doing it again this year, he said. Soroky said the hope is that children will continue to ride their bikes after the event is offer. This is the impetus to kind of get you to get outside and to ride, he said. And hopefully when those two weeks are over, you continue to ride and you continue to go outside and enjoy and exercising. Medina Police Chief Edward Kinney said that last year, bike officers joined in the fun and rode alongside the children. He said the department plans to do the same for this years event. Read more news from the Medina Sun here. CLEVELAND, Ohio Three men, including two from Florida and one from Pepper Pike, face federal drug charges after agents seized more than 23,000 THC cartridges used in vaping devices during an investigation last month, authorities say. A grand jury on Wednesday indicted Frank Altieri, 25, of Brooklyn, Florida; David Bruell, 28, of Pepper Pike; and James Campbell, 35, of Boynton Beach, Florida. Each face charges of conspiracy and possession with intent to distribute tetrahydrocannabinol, which is the psychoactive component of marijuana. The U.S. Attorneys Office said Campbell traveled to Cleveland on April 11 to meet with Altieri at a Holiday Inn Express near Cleveland-Hopkins International Airport, where they put boxes with the THC cartridges into a Chevrolet Tahoe. Campbell drove to a house on Elsetta Avenue in Cleveland. Agents said that people arrived and moved boxes into the home. Authorities later searched the home and found 5,888 cartridges. Agents also searched Bruells home on Brandywood Drive in Pepper Pike and found more cartridges and cash. They also found more marijuana and cartridges at Bruells rental units in Warrensville Heights in Columbus, authorities said. All three are out on bond. Campbell admitted to agents that he has traveled between California, Ohio and elsewhere, dropping off THC cartridges and picking up money, according to an affidavit written in April by Lake County Narcotics Agency agent Daniel Lajack. Federal prosecutors are seeking the forfeiture of nearly $1.5 million that agents seized, according to a news release. While many states, including Ohio have relaxed laws surrounding marijuana and allowed for it to at least be consumed for medical purposes, marijuana is still classified as a Schedule I drug under federal law. Cases involving marijuana are not frequent on the federal level, though prosecutors have brought them in recent years if suspected drug traffickers are moving large amounts or if its combined with another crime such as money laundering. If you would like to comment on this story, please visit Thursdays crime and courts comments section. CLEVELAND, Ohio -- An 81-year-old Cleveland man serving a life sentence in the 1974 murder of his wife won an appeal of a judges denial of his request to have evidence in his case tested for DNA, an appeals court has ruled. Isiah Andrews, who has maintained his innocence since his 1975 conviction, wants to have sperm found inside his wifes body tested for DNA using modern technology that wasnt available at his trial. A panel of three 8th District Court of Appeals judges unanimously held that Cuyahoga County Common Pleas Court Judge Robert McClelland abused his discretion in May 2018 when he denied that application, which attorneys with the Cincinnati-based Ohio Innocence Project filed on his behalf. The panel found that it was critical to determine the source of the sperm that was found in the body of Regina Andrews, and that the results could cast doubt on the jurys verdict that Isiah Andrews was the true killer. Isiah Andrews was convicted of a single count of aggravated murder and sentenced to life in prison for his wifes Sept. 18, 1974 killing, despite prosecutors presenting no physical evidence at his trial to tie him to the crime. The case hinged on the testimony of two witnesses whose stories to police evolved over time. Isiah Andrews, a salesman and Marine Corps veteran, married Regina Andrews 24 days before her death. The two rented an efficiency room at the Colonial House Motel on Euclid Avenue in Cleveland as they searched for a permanent place to live, according to trial testimony. Isiah Andrews told police that he left the hotel about 8 a.m. to run some errands, including selling wholesale fish, and his wife was gone when he returned that evening. He called her mother over to the hotel room and, when Regina Andrews still had not returned home by 10 p.m., they called police and reported her missing. A passerby found her body in nearby Forest Hills Park the next day. She was stabbed seven times in the neck and four times in the stomach, and her nightgown had been pushed up around her neck. She wasnt wearing underwear, and her body was wrapped in bedding with tags from multiple area hotels. Nearby, police found several bloody copies of The Plain Dealer that featured a front-page story about a prostitution crackdown, according to court records. Investigators determined that the cuts to her stomach came while her nightgown was pushed up, because there were not corresponding cuts or puncture holes in the nightgown, records said. The Cuyahoga County Coroners Office took swabs from Regina Andrews vagina and found full-tailed sperm," records say. But there was no DNA testing available at the time to determine who it came from. Police searched the hotel room and Isiah Andrews car and found no evidence to tie him to the crime, records said. A hotel employee initially told police that she saw Andrews leave about 11 a.m. with a large bag, and return wearing the same brown suit he had left in. A woman who lived in the room next to the Andrews room initially told police that the couple argued just like everybody else and she never heard him yelling or screaming at her, according to court records. She also said she saw a light-skinned" man go into the hotel room about 9 p.m. the night before, records say. But at trial, the employee, Betty Worthy, said for the first time that she looked into the Andrews room while Isiah Andrews was leaving and noticed an empty bed with the sheets stripped, court records said. She said on the stand that she had not told police everything and decided to disclose that detail after a defense investigator asked her before trial if she was involved in prostitution, Andrews attorneys said in his application. The next door neighbor, Linda Cloud, testified that she heard Andrews say to his wife, b---h, you know Im going to kill you, during an argument the night before the killing, records say. Prosecutors presented the theory at trial that Isiah Andrews killed his wife during an argument over money and her reluctance to join the Muslim faith, of which Isiah Andrews was a member. Then he used his military background to tidy up the crime scene and dispose of her body. Defense lawyers brought up the possibility that the real killer had also sexually assaulted Regina Andrews, pointing to the stomach wounds and the presence of sperm. Ohio law at the time did not consider the sexual assault of a spouse a crime, so prosecutors did not pursue rape or any related charges against Isiah Andrews. Lawyers for the Ohio Innocence Project argued in his application for DNA testing that, if the tests show the sperm came from someone other than Isiah Andrews, it would at a minimum give a jury enough reasonable doubt to find him not guilty murdering his wife. In fact, DNA testing could not only eliminate Mr. Andrews as the source of the sperm, but modern DNA databases could help apprehend the party responsible for the rape and murder, the application said. McClelland wrote in his order denying the application that the state relied on witness testimony that was unrelated to any sexual activity to convince the jury of Isiah Andrews guilt. Whether the DNA test showed the sperm came from Isiah Andrews or another man, with whom Regina Andrews may have had consensual sex, did not matter, he wrote. The simple fact that [Regina Andrews] had sex with someone prior to her death is not enough without other evidence to suggest that there was some other perpetrator, McClelland wrote. The 8th District disagreed. The judges did say it is possible that the presence of the sperm has nothing to do with the death of Regina Andrews. It could have been from her having consensual sex with another man, or with her husband before her death. However, it is equally possible that Regina was stabbed as a part of, or immediately following, some sexual activity or sexual assault, and that the fully-tailed sperm belong to someone other than Andrews, the court wrote. Isiah Andrews was convicted in 1958 of shooting his drill sergeant to death, and was paroled after serving 15 years in prison, according to Plain Dealer archives. He and another inmate convicted of murder and serving a life sentence in March 1976 scaled the fence at a prison in Lucasville and briefly escaped, according to Plain Dealer archives. Isiah Andrews spent about four hours running from law enforcement before they captured him nearby, covered in cuts and scrapes. To comment on this story, visit Thursdays crime and courts comments page. CLEVELAND, Ohio -- A Cleveland man is accused of being one of three masked robbers who beat a woman with a metal pipe at a downtown apartment building. A 24-year-old man is charged with aggravated burglary in the incident at the Allerton Apartments on East 13th Street at Chester Avenue, according to court records. Update May 25: A Cleveland Municipal Court judge granted the mans motion to dismiss the charges against him. Detectives arrested him Thursday, court records say. He is being held in the Cuyahoga County Jail until his first appearance in Cleveland Municipal Court. The 41-year-old woman suffered minor injuries in the April 18 attack, according to a police report. She went to a hospital for treatment. Court records say the man also lives in the apartment building where the attack occurred. The woman was at her girlfriends apartment about 8:20 p.m. when she heard a knock on the door. She called out come in, and three men wearing masks entered the apartment. The robbers struck the woman approximately 10 times in the head and body with a blunt object, police reports say. Other tenants in the building later told the woman that it was a metal pipe. The woman fell to the ground during the attack. She told investigators she could not remember much after being struck in the face with the metal pipe. The robbers took $300 from the woman before they ran out of the apartment, police reports say. The woman did not report the attack until May 2, when she walked into the Third District police station. The police report does not offer a reason for the delay. She told investigators she recognized the voice of one of the robbers as another tenant in the building named CJ. Detectives found the mans social media profiles and identified him as a suspect, police reports say. The woman provided possible names for the other two robbers. No one else had been charged in the case as of Thursday morning, court records show. To comment on this story, visit Thursdays crime and courts comments page. CLEVELAND, Ohio -- After Hessler Street Fair celebrates its 50th anniversary June 1-2, it will take a hiatus. The popular festival consumes Hessler Court near Case Western Reserve Universitys campus every summer, bringing in music, dancing, food and a market. According to Packy Malley, the director of the Hessler Street Fair, the event has become unmanageable over the years for the small team that puts it on. The Hessler Neighborhood Association has grown weary of the event and there are a lot of reasons, he said. The fair is becoming a lot more expensive. There are less and less people involved in the Hessler Neighborhood Association, and the streets in real bad shape. Malley said that the sole member of the Hessler Neighborhood Association is its president, Pat Holland. This year, Hessler Street Fair will feature performances by 21 bands, including Carlos Jones and the P.L.U.S. Band, Revolution Brass Band and Alex Bevan. The fair will also include over 80 food, art and nonprofit vendors. We were lucky to get it to 50, Malley said. "Its not going to necessarily going to end. But its definitely going to take a hiatus. Find more information about Hessler Street Fair at its website. CLEVELAND, Ohio -- No, you cant have my job. I may have the best beat at The Plain Dealer: I get to travel for a living, and then write about my trips. Over the years, I have: Traveled to Iceland and Paris, on new flights from Cleveland Hopkins International Airport. (Those flights, unfortunately, arent around any longer -- Ive written about that too.) Previewed several of the newest, record-breaking roller coasters at Cedar Point. (And never gotten sick!) Traveled by bus, plane, car and train to Detroit, Columbus, Canton and Pittsburgh, plus hundreds of other destinations. In recent years due to budget constraints, but also a change in philosophy I have focused almost exclusively on regional travel, trips that are within an easy car drive from Cleveland. We supplement those stories in the Sunday Travel section with wire and freelance pieces about faraway, most exotic destinations. I hope we are striking the right balance. It is my goal to offer recommendations for memorable destinations, updates on familiar sights, and ideas for making the most of your hard-earned time and money. I also write about Cleveland Hopkins International Airport, regional air service and transportation issues, plus Destination Cleveland and the regional tourism economy. Im almost never at a loss for things to write about, but Id like to know more about the stories youre interested in reading. If you want to email me, I can be reached at sglaser@plaind.com. But please take my survey below to help us learn where we can better connect with you. CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Seven Northeast Ohio-area Steak 'n Shake restaurants have closed in recent weeks, but the fast-food chain says the closings are only temporary. The closings, according to Steak 'n Shakes website, are in Brooklyn, Garfield Heights, Kamms Corners, Willoughby, Macedonia, Aurora, and Brunswick. The restaurants are among 44 corporate-owned stores nationwide to shut their doors last quarter as the company looks to find franchisees to take over those locations. The effort is part of an overall shift in strategy by Steak 'n Shakes parent, Biglari Holdings Inc., to a business model that relies less on company-owned stores and more on single-unit franchise owners. The chain currently is comprised of 367 company-operated stores and 213 franchised locations, according to the companys quarterly report. Biglari has been trying to flip those numbers since August when it launched a six-month training program offering entrepreneurs the chance to own and operate an existing store for an investment of $10,000. These franchise partners, as Steak 'n Shake calls them, keep 50 percent of their restaurants profit and are guaranteed $100,000 the first year, though they must pay up to 15-percent of sales to rent the space and equipment, QSR Magazine reported. There is no timetable for the shuttered stores to open once the company finds a franchisee to run them. In February, in a letter to shareholders, Biglari chairman Sardar Biglar talked about the need to improve equipment and kitchen design. The updates would add to the amount of time it takes to re-open a store. We are overhauling and streamlining production that is, developing a sophisticated operating and delivery system in order to gain volume through speed, he wrote. Steak 'n Shakes same-store sales and customer traffic dropped nearly 8 percent during the first quarter of 2019. A request by Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost to hold off enforcement of ruling in the states gerrymandering lawsuit is another delay tactic that should be rejected, advocates who won the suit argued in a response filed in federal court Wednesday night. A panel of three federal judges unanimously ruled Friday that Ohios gerrymandered congressional district map is unconstitutional. The judges found that the map dilutes the votes of Democratic voters by packing and cracking them into districts that are so skewed toward one party that the electoral outcome is predetermined. The judges gave the state until June 14 to enact a new map so preparations could begin for the 2020 election. Failure to do so could lead to the court deciding the lines for a new map. But Yost on Monday filed notice of an appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court and requested a stay of the ruling, pending at least until the Supreme Court decides on gerrymandering cases out of North Carolina and Maryland. Yost argued that those cases could lead to a reversal of the Ohio decision. Those cases could be decided within weeks. The state made a similar argument earlier in unsuccessfully seeking a delay in trial, which took place in Cincinnati in March. Advocates who brought the suit, including the Ohio League of Women Votes with representation by the American Civil Liberties Union, responded to Yosts delay request Wednesday night. This Court already refused an invitation to participate in the folly of predicting what the Supreme Court might do ... It should reject that same invitation again," the response said. In court filings leading up the the ruling, the state said it must have a map by September of this year, in order to prepare for the 2020 election. The judges laid out timetable to create a new map, ordering the state to enact a remedial plan consistent with the courts opinion by June 14. That plan and details of how the new map was determined must be submitted by June 21. The advocates who brought the suit would then have a week to object to the new map. The current Ohio congressional map was drawn in 2011, using 2010 census data. The Republican Party controlled the Ohio Legislature and the governors office then, as it does now. The GOP designed a map capable of withstanding swings in voter sentiment to reliably elect 12 Republicans and four Democrats statewide. The results have been exactly as planned in the four elections with the map, with Republicans winning 75 percent of the races with just over half of the overall vote. In addition to the pending U.S. Supreme Court cases from Maryland (brought by Republicans) and North Carolina (brought by Democrats), a federal judge panel in Michigan recently ordered the redrawing the lines for several Statehouse and congressional districts there. Pennsylvania used a new congressional map last year, under order by the Pennsylvania Supreme Court. The U.S. Supreme Court refused to overturn that ruling. The U.S. Supreme Court in 1986 ruled that partisan gerrymandering could violate the Equal Protection Clause of the Constitution, but left ambiguous the standard by which courts might rule on such claims. Eric Heisig, federal courts reporter for cleveland.com, contributed to this story. Rich Exner, data analysis editor for cleveland.com, writes about numbers on a variety of topics. Follow on Twitter @RichExner. Find gerrymandering-related stories at this link at on cleveland.com. COLUMBUS, OhioThe Ohio House on Thursday gave its final OK to a proposed $69 billion, two-year state budget that includes sizable personal income-tax cuts, raising Ohios minimum age to buy cigarettes from 18 to 21, and more money for education and childrens services. The massive bill, which passed 85-9, now heads to the Ohio Senate, which is all but certain to make its own significant changes to the legislation. Notably, all but two House Democrats voted for the Republican-authored budget bill. Tax changes Under the Houses version of the budget, Ohioans with taxable incomes of $22,250 or less would no longer have to pay state income taxes. Tax rates for everyone else would be reduced by about 6.6 percent. The income tax cut would be paid for by: Wiping out most of the $900 million Gov. Mike DeWine sought to set up clean-water programs for Lake Erie and other Ohio waterways; Scaling back a controversial state business income-tax exemption so that it applies to the first $100,000 of business income, rather than the first $250,000; Eliminating a number of tax breaks, including Ohios $40 million motion-picture tax credit and sales-tax exemptions on gold coins, flight simulators, motor racing teams, aviation repair and maintenance, and co-ownership of corporate jets. More money for childrens services, education programs House members preserved or, in some cases, increased DeWines proposal to spend more money on programs geared toward public-health and childrens services, including lead-paint removal, home visits for at-risk pregnant women and young mothers, and crisis stabilization funds. Lawmakers also allocated $60 million for foster care double what the governor proposed. The budget includes $675 million in new money for wrap-around education services, which include things like after-school programs or mental and physical health services. Much of the money would go to districts with large numbers of students living in poverty, particularly in rural areas. The bill also provides $20 million for school districts to purchase new school buses. More health-care consumer protections House members inserted proposed new health-care price transparency rules, including that patients cant be charged higher prices from doctors outside their health-insurance network if theyre being treated at an in-network facility. In addition, every health-care provider in the state would have to provide a cost estimate to patients within 24 hours of an appointment being made. Lawmakers also added items designed to prevent pharmacy benefit managers (middlemen who negotiate drug prices) from bilking the state. Attorney General Dave Yost had called for the measures, which include consolidating all the various PBM contracts that different state agencies and pension plans have into a single, overarching contract. One thing House members didnt touch in DeWines original budget plan was a proposal to raise the minimum age to buy cigarettes in Ohio from 18 to 21. Unusual bipartisan support In recent years, Ohio House budget bills have passed by a mostly party-line vote, so its notable that more Republicans (seven) voted against the GOP-sponsored budget Thursday than Democrats. House Minority Leader Emilia Sykes said that while the budget doesnt include everything that her caucus has been seeking, House GOP leadership agreed to add a number of Democratic proposals, including income-tax cuts for poorer Ohioans, shrinking the small-business tax cut, and more money for higher education and childrens services. Sykes denied that House Democrats struck a deal with House Speaker Larry Householder to vote yes in exchange for allowing some Democratic policy proposals to be added to the budget. Medicaid reform plan removed Prior to the budget vote, the House removed language requiring the DeWine administration to ask federal permission to have roughly 1 million Medicaid recipients in the state pay into the program to receive full benefits. Under the Healthy Ohio reform proposal, which was inserted into the budget late Wednesday afternoon, Medicaid recipients who are late in paying would lose coverage for things such as ambulance service, prescription drugs and wheelchairs. But the proposal is far from dead: Householder voiced support for the plan and said it would soon be introduced in a separate bill. What happens now Householder said the Senate is likely to change some of the Houses tax proposals in the budget, noting that senators voted Wednesday to expand the motion-picture tax credit instead of getting rid of it. Asked whether Democrats support of the budget gives the House leverage with the Senate, the speaker said yes. Youre looking at a bill that only had nine no votes leaving this chamber, Householder said. I think that anybody would recognize that this is overwhelming support. CLEVELAND, Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose on Thursday unveiled the final three designs for the new I Voted sticker. LaRose announced a contest to redesign the popular stickers given to voters at the polls in March, with students around Ohio able to submit entries. LaRose said after more than 2,000 submissions, theyd whittled the list down to three. Im so encouraged by the overwhelming enthusiasm from young people all over our great state, LaRose said. Its a testament to their passion for the power and importance of voting. The final designs are below. You can vote on the sticker contest here through May 17. Emily, Teays Valley High School, Pickaway County, 12th grade Felicity, Milford High School, Clermont County, 12th Grade COLUMBUS, Ohio The State Medical Board of Ohio is expected in June to decide whether people can obtain medical marijuana for anxiety and autism spectrum disorder. On Wednesday, a committee made up of four members of the medical board voted to recommend that the full, 12-member board approve the two conditions. They voted against recommending depression, insomnia and opioid use disorder. Up to 13.3 percent of people in the U.S. have anxiety. Twenty-eight percent of people will experience an anxiety disorder at some point in their lives. Roughly 1 child in 59 has autism spectrum disorder in the U.S. The condition affects 10,000 Ohio families, said Michael Hartley, a Circleville advocate whose son has Autism. Hartley is encouraged by the committees decision. Medical marijuana could be a tool for parents who are trying to manage their childrens condition. You can tell in a child with autism that their mind goes at a speed that is faster than most, thats why they have horrible handwriting and they talk so fast, he said. Why not? It may calm my child down. It may slow their mind down so they may function better. Currently, patients who have any of 21 conditions -- from HIV and cancer to post-traumatic stress disorder -- may obtain legal Ohio medical marijuana. The committee had reviewed over 200 pages of medical studies, data and arguments from Ohioans about why the conditions should be added to the list of qualifying ailments. On Wednesday, the committee made phone calls to some of the physicians and a neuroscientist who had submitted expert reports. The challenge with medical research and medical marijuana is scarcity. The federal government classifies marijuana as a schedule 1 controlled substance, along with drugs such as heroin, deeming them as having a high potential of abuse. Because the federal government deems marijuana as dangerous, its hard for a scientist to obtain it for study. Anxiety The discussion over anxiety centered on whether taking marijuana can exacerbate it. Medical board member Michael Schottenstein, a Columbus-area psychiatrist, asked Solomon Zaraa, a psychiatrist for Compassionate Cleveland, about panic attacks and paranoia that people report experiencing on marijuana. Zaraa said patients need to start on a low dose of THC and products that blend THC with CBD, which is another active ingredient in cannabis. Anxiety gets worse if people start on a dose meant for someone with more tolerance, he said. Low doses can ameliorate symptoms but then even moderate doses can potentially cause a situation where anxiety can come back, he said. New Jersey, California, Oklahoma, and Puerto Rico and Pennsylvania allow anxiety in their medical marijuana programs. Autism spectrum disorder Medical marijuana will not be a cure for autism spectrum disorder, Ohio State University neuroscience professor Gary Wenk told the committee. But studies showed medical marijuana could reduce irritability, repetitive self-injury, seizures and brain inflammation that people with ASD can have. It might make the parents find the children easier to work with, Wenk said. Do you feel like its safe, and especially given the fact that a lot of patients are going to be children, adolescents -- do you feel like thats a safe product for them? Schottenstein asked. Wenk said there are risks. Childrens brains are not fully developed. Their nervous tissue is still growing and developing, he said. However, he said that ASD childrens brains are wired so differently that interfering with the nervous tissue growth may be the cost to help alleviate their suffering. Schottenstein said that the children can get antipsychotics and mood stabilizers to help with their disorder. But those too have serious side effects. Wenk said medical marijuana has lower toxicity than many pharmaceuticals. We have to be mindful about whats out there already, and whether or not the medical marijuana is justifiable," Schottenstein said. In the end the committee voted to recommend adding autism spectrum disorder. Autism is a qualifying condition in the medical marijuana laws of Rhode Island, Colorado, Georgia, Oregon, Pennsylvania. Louisiana, Michigan, Minnesota and Utah. Rejected conditions Some of the experts advised the committee to not allow medical marijuana to be used for the conditions that were ultimately rejected. For instance, Zaraa of Compassionate Cleveland said that there simply wasnt enough evidence for him to recommend marijuana for depression. For insomnia, many of underlying issues that cause people to have troubled sleep are covered by Ohios program, such as pain -- among the 21 qualifying conditions -- and anxiety -- which was recommended by the committee Wednesday. For opioid use disorder, the concern was that people who fall into addiction often have brain chemistries that dont properly process drugs that produce a dopamine surge -- including opioids and marijuana. Ted Parran, a professor at Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, said that there is some evidence that chronic pain patients who use marijuana may use lower doses of opiates. In terms of chronic pain management, theyre conflating that with the disease of addiction, he said. SOUTH BEND, Indiana Pete Buttigieg knows hes having a special moment, one with an out-of-body experience feel to it. This is probably the only time in American history when a 37-year-old, Midwestern mayor running for president would be taken seriously, said that mayor. Therere probably some reasons for that. And only some of those reasons have to do with me. Its Election Day in South Bend. And while Buttigieg (pronounced Boot-edge-edge) rightly worries democracy is backsliding in Donald Trumps America, on this day, in this city, its functioning just fine. By nightfall, Democratic voters will have chosen Buttigiegs longtime friend and high school classmate James Mueller as his likely successor as mayor. A few hours earlier, I spent a half hour with the present mayor in his national campaign headquarters on the third floor of a downtown office building. Two floors below is the Chicory Cafe, a street-level coffee shop teeming with students and campaign volunteers. Just to the north are the Notre Dame University and Saint Marys College campuses. Buttigieg doesnt try to overwhelm you with his brilliance. He seems confident, unflappable, serious, with a dash or two of charisma. Most importantly, in ways big and small, Buttigieg is the polar opposite of the man he wants to replace as president. He is young, thoughtful and smart, probably the most intellectually gifted candidate in the race. He is a veteran who served his country in Afghanistan. He speaks in complete and understandable sentences. He is a church-going gay man. He seems to care about people other than himself. Buttigieg doesnt wear his resume - Harvard, Rhodes Scholar, Navy Reserve lieutenant, fluent in seven languages on his sleeve. Nor does he discount it is part of his appeal. In a moment like this, I think people are looking for a president who is capable; not just one who is intelligent, but who is intellectually curious. But remember, a lot of very intelligent people have led people into some big blunders. South Bend, like every other big city in the de-industrialized, upper Midwest, faces daunting challenges. As mayor for more than seven years, Buttigieg has been singled out for an innovative approach to job creation and he has used technology to build a waste-water-treatment system he touts as the worlds most modern. I may be lucky that I was not born in time to see the factories in their glory days here in South Bend, he said. Maybe if Id seen that, Id think of nothing else but getting them back to the way we were. But since I only saw them as ruins, my thinking has been about what comes next. Buttigieg is is fond of saying his campaign has gone from adorable to plausible to formidable. Indeed, a recent poll by The Hill showed Buttigieg fifth in what is now a 21-candidate race for the Democratic presidential nomination, but far behind frontrunner and former Vice President Joe Biden. Its a long way between formidable and inevitable, he said. It feels good to draw big crowds and have a lot of attention. But its a long way from having a commanding majority. With generational tensions roiling the Democratic Party, Buttigieg is careful not to suggest Biden and Sen. Bernie Sanders are too old to be president. I dont think its my place to say whether any of my competitors should run. I do think theres a strong appetite for generational change. And thats not only true of young voters. I am finding it particularly true of voters who are my parents age. Trump is obsessed by the past. Instead of building a nation for our grandchildren, he romanticizes for the America of our grandparents. Theyve (Republicans) set up an impossible promise that we can meet our challenges by turning back the clock, said Buttigieg. One of the things thats most inspiring about those who came before us is that they were focused on the future. Thats the thing we ought to emulate. Not their particular economic arrangements. And certainly not their racial and social attitudes. Buttigieg believes the way to run against Trump would be to ignore his grade-school bullying in favor of a conversation with voters about structural changes to democracy and ways to improve their lives with higher wages, better health care and building a skilled workforce. In 2016, we were so shocked about who the nominee was we found it hard to talk about anything else. And I think we allowed our message to be far too much about him. Already, Buttigiegs lifestyle is being targeted with the vile and despicable language so often employed by some religious extremists. There are few bigger hypocrites than the intolerant fundamentalist leaders who support this amoral and immoral president. Imagine the venom they would spew across the battleground state map in a Buttigieg-Trump matchup. Of course its unpleasant, he said of the gay bashing. And its strange when people protest not over your ideas, but over your existence. My type of mental equipment for dealing with that is the same that keeps me humble when people say absurdly nice or inflated things about my intellect. "The most important thing to remember is this campaign is not about me. Its about everyday life in America and how I might be able to make it better if I get elected instead of the other guy. Brent Larkin was The Plain Dealers editorial director from 1991 until his retirement in 2009. To reach Brent Larkin: blarkin@cleveland.com Have something to say about this topic? Use the comments to share your thoughts. Then, stay informed when readers reply to your comments by using the Follow option at the top of the comments, and look for updates via the small blue bell in the lower right as you look at more stories on cleveland.com. COLUMBUS, Ohio--In a final flurry of amendments Wednesday to the states budget bill, Ohio lawmakers added an across-the-board state income-tax cut, new health-care consumer protections, and language that effectively nullifies Toledos Lake Erie Bill of Rights. The roughly $69 billion two-year budget plan, House Bill 166, is now scheduled for a final Ohio House vote on Thursday, after the House Finance Committee voted unanimously to wave forward the legislation. The committee kept language stating that Ohioans with taxable incomes of $22,250 or less would no longer have to pay state income taxes. But it added $108 million worth of income-tax cuts for everyone else. If passed, the income-tax reduction would be 6.6 percent per taxpayer, on average, according to House Republicans. Any economist will tell you that the key to economic activity in the state is disposable income, said House Speaker Larry Householder, a Perry County Republican, following the committees vote. And so the more you can create across-the-board cuts in income tax, the more disposable income there will be, and the more our communities will benefit from it. The finance committee added proposed new health-care price transparency rules, including that patients cant be charged higher prices from doctors outside their health-insurance network if theyre being treated at an in-network facility. In addition, every health-care provider in the state would have to provide a cost estimate to patients within 24 hours of an appointment being made. Another newly added provision states that no one can file a lawsuit in a state court on behalf of nature or any ecosystem. If passed, that would nullify Toledos Lake Erie Bill of Rights, which allows city residents to sue on behalf of the lake to, among other things, curb farmers agricultural runoff that helps promote toxic algal blooms. Lawmakers also inserted items designed to prevent pharmacy benefit managers (middlemen who negotiate drug prices) from bilking the state. Attorney General Dave Yost had called for the measures, which include consolidating all the various PBM contracts that different state agencies and pension plans have into a single, overarching contract. HB 166 is all but certain to pass the House on Thursday, but parts of it could face tough scrutiny in the Ohio Senate. While the Houses income-tax cut would be paid for in part by scrapping Ohios $40 million motion-picture tax credit, the Senate on Thursday passed a measure that not only would preserve the credit, but expand it to include Broadway shows. We may have a disagreement on this one, Householder said of the film tax credit. COLUMBUS, Ohio--While Ohio appeals a federal court ruling that the states congressional districts are unconstitutionally gerrymandered, House Democrats say state lawmakers need to start preparing now to draw new district lines. Ohio House Minority Leader Emilia Sykes, in a Wednesday letter to Republican Senate President Larry Obhof, proposed reviving the legislatures bipartisan redistricting task force, starting with a meeting next Monday. The task force, which convenes every 10 years to help lawmakers create new district maps, hasnt met since 2011. Sykes wrote in the letter that the task force should reconvene now because even if lawmakers dont end up having to quickly redraw congressional lines for the 2020 election, they should get ready anyway for the constitutionally mandated redistricting following the 2020 census. As it stands, legislative software licenses are expired, equipment is outdated, and liaisons are currently working without pay, Sykes stated. During a follow-up news conference, Sykes also noted that the committee has yet to dip into a $5 million budget to hire lawyers, consultants and map drawers. I do not believe that it is prudent upon us as legislators to sit on our hands and not to act, she said. Last week, a federal court panel ruled that state lawmakers have until June 14 to redraw the states congressional districts, which were created by Republicans in 2011. Sykes said she was deeply disappointed that Republican Attorney General Dave Yost has appealed the ruling to the U.S. Supreme Court. Yost also has asked that the ruling be put on hold. As of Wednesday afternoon, Obhof hadnt responded to Sykes proposal to meet next week. Its important to work through the legal process, said Senate GOP spokesman John Fortney in a statement to cleveland.com. Its also important to remember the U.S. Supreme Court is reviewing cases similar to Ohios, so there is much yet to be decided." Last year, Ohio voters approved a bipartisan redistricting reform plan intended to reduce congressional gerrymandering, which takes effect for the 2022 election. Sykes said legislators should be guided by the new rules if they have to create a new district map for 2020. BRECKSVILLE, Ohio The Friends of the Crooked River have awarded a contract to remove the the 8-foot-tall, 183-foot-long Brecksville dam from the Cuyahoga, to free a path for fish to swim and kayakers to paddle. Kokosing Industrial Inc.'s demolition of the dam in the Cuyahoga Valley National Park this year should improve water quality and water flow, allowing walleye, Northern pike, steelhead trout and other fish species not seen upriver in decades to travel south. The removal leaves only one dam left on the 100-mile river, which begins in Geauga County: the 60-foot-tall Gorge Dam in Cuyahoga Falls. The story of the Canal Diversion Dam and its eventual removal is a symbol of the rebirth of the Cuyahoga River itself, said Elaine Marsh, president of Friends of the Crooked River, a Cuyahoga River advocacy group. The removal, in the works since 2003, is estimated to cost about $1.5 million, including the cost of a new canal pump station to feed the Ohio and Erie Canal, a National Historic Site and the cost of preparatory studies and engineering work. The city of Akrons sewer overflow program is contributing $900,000, and the United States EPA is paying $750,000 for the project. Officially named the Canal Diversion Dam, the structure was originally built in 1952 to move water into the Ohio and Erie Canal for Cleveland steel mills to use for cooling. Its no longer needed, and its created an unhealthy habitat for the fish and bugs native to the river, according to the Ohio EPA. The dam slows water flow, and creates a lake-like environment called a dam pool, which isnt ideal for bugs and fish, like small-mouth bass that like free flowing water and hiding out in crevasses and rocks. The dam also blocks fish from moving upstream to their breeding grounds, which over time, causes population decline. By putting a dam in youve effectively shut the door on their ability to get to spawning grounds upstream, said Bill Zawiski, Ohio EPA water quality group environmental supervisor. The dam also creates an unsafe environment for people who like to kayak, paddle or canoe on the river. When water falls over the dam, it creates a deadly undertow. Currently, the dam pool does not meet EPA standards for fish. Once the dam is removed, the Ohio EPA anticipates it should reach standards in six months. The national park will continue work to restore the habitat with Ohio EPA money. For more Cuyahoga River and Lake Erie news, follow RocktheLake on Facebook. A year after Trump's decision to pull out of nuclear agreement, Iran partially restarts its nuclear programme, lifting limitations on uranium enrichment and heavy water reserves. This is not the end of the nuclear deal, but Irans Rouhani wants guarantees from other parties. Meanwhile, Washington is deploying bombers to the Middle East, as Pompeo makes a surprise visit to Baghdad. Tehran (AsiaNews/Agencies) Exactly one year after US President Donald Trump decided to withdraw from the Iran nuclear agreement, his Iranian counterpart, Hassan Rouhani, announced that his government would partially resume its nuclear programme, uranium enrichment included. Speaking on state television, the Iranian leader informed the remaining signatories United Kingdom, France, Germany, China and Russia that they had 60 days to make good on their promises to protect Irans oil and banking interests. Rouhani said that the deal on Irans nuclear programme had been reached in the worlds interest, but that Irans enemies. i.e. Trump and the US, had forced him to roll back Irans commitment. For this reason, Iran no longer feels bound to keep limitations on uranium enrichment and heavy water reserves. The 60 days deadline applies to the production of higher enriched uranium. Before Rouhanis formal announcement, the Iranian government had already informed the signatories of the deal of its decision, insisting that they have two months to fulfill their commitment to defend Irans oil and banking sectors, which have been hard hit by US sanctions. In May 2018, US President Donald Trump pulled out of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) agreed by his predecessor, Barack Obama, and imposed the toughest sanctions on Iran in history. As noted by the International Monetary Fund, this decision has negatively impacted Irans economy, especially its oil exports, which was the goal of the second wave of sanctions that came into effect on 4 November 2018. Despite Washingtons hardline stance, the Islamic Republic continues to honour its commitments under the nuclear agreement, as certified by the IAEA experts. However, in the absence of an adequate response to its concerns, Iran will withdraw from the other commitments undertaken when it signed the deal four years ago. "The JCPOA has a national strategic foundation. It was not an individual or partisan or governmental issue, Rouhani said. Rather, it was a national decision which was made by the entire governing system. At the same time, The Iranian people and the world should know that today is not the end of the JCPOA, Rouhani said. These are actions in line with the JCPOA. In Moscow, where he is on a diplomatic mission, Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said that the decision to suspend some commitments under the deal does not violate it, nor does Iran want to withdraw. In his view, Articles of 26 and 36 entitle Iran to raise complaint about breaches to the international deal in the joint commission. It also allows it to end some or all commitments if one of the parties does not fully uphold the agreement or re-introduces sanctions, which is what the United States did. Tehran's announcement comes a few hours after US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo made a surprise visit to Iraq to secure Baghdad's support against Iran. In parallel, the United States is rearranging its military positioning in Middle East, sending B-52 fighter-bombers, aircraft carriers and warships to the region. For some time, the US administration, driven by National Security Adviser John Bolton, has adopted a bellicose rhetoric against Iran, which is having concrete consequences. Many analysts and experts agree that as a result of escalating tensions, the Islamic Republic might find itself pitted against the United States (plus Israel, Saudi Arabia, Emirates, etc.). Thousands of US and Iranian troops are already operating within easy reach of each other in Syria and Iraq and there is a real danger that an incident might lead to fighting with devastating consequences. The only viable solution is to reopen diplomatic channels between Washington and Tehran, as did the Obama administration under difficult circumstances. However, at present, those fanning the winds of war seem to have the upper hand in the White House. Clifford Chance announces Singapore-based AI start-up as winner of Create+65 Innovators Leading international law firm Clifford Chance has announced that TAIGER, a Singapore-based artificial intelligence start-up, is the winner of Create+65 Innovators, the firm's first start-up initiative in Asia Pacific. The winner was selected by an expert panel from Clifford Chance which included Bas Boris Visser (Global Head of Innovation), Jeroen Plink (CEO of Clifford Chance Applied Solutions) and Kai-Niklas Schneider (Managing Partner, Singapore). Kai-Niklas Schneider, Managing Partner, Singapore, said, "We continue to embrace technology and new ways of working to ensure we provide the best service for our clients. Create+65, our innovation lab, lets us work with start-ups, our clients and even other law firms, to identify and develop new solutions for the legal industry's biggest challenges." TAIGER pioneers next-generation AI solutions by using human-like logic to automatically read, understand and extract information, guaranteeing unrivalled levels of accuracy. The company has mostly worked with financial services organisations, and this will be its first foray into the legal industry. TAIGER was chosen because its technology aligns with Clifford Chance's innovation priorities which includes adopting new technologies to improve document drafting, management and analytics, as well as embracing machine learning and natural language processing to achieve efficiencies. Sinuhe Arroyo, CEO and founder of TAIGER, said, Were honoured to be the inaugural winner of Create+65 Innovators. TAIGER helps organisations automate complex cognitive tasks that require language interpretation and understanding, and we see tremendous opportunity to create operational efficiencies for Clifford Chance. The firm is known for its excellence and innovation and we look forward to working with the team to implement TAIGERs technologies. TAIGER and Clifford Chance will embark on a 12-week collaboration phase to identify cost and resource intensive legal processes which TAIGERs technology can help significantly reduce. TAIGER will receive support and access to the firm's resources, including time with lawyers and clients, access to anonymised sample data and mentoring. Laura Collins Scott, Innovation Lead for Create+65, said, "The positive response to our first ever Create+65 Innovators programme shows that Singapore's start-up community is thriving. We are excited to work with TAIGER over the coming months to explore uses of cutting-edge AI technology for the legal industry. We recognise that the biggest challenge for legaltech start-ups is often getting product feedback from lawyers, so we will invite lawyers to participate in a series of product workshops with the other Create+65 Innovators finalists." Supported by the Singapore Economic Development Board (EDB) and developed in collaboration with the Future Law Innovation Programme (FLIP), Create+65 is Clifford Chance's first innovation lab. It sits at the heart of the firm's Singapore-based Innovation and Best Delivery Hub for Asia Pacific, which was launched in May 2018. This story is part of CNBC Make It's Millennial Money series, which profiles people across the U.S. and details how they earn, spend and give away their money. Australian native Madeline Parkinson has always wanted to work as a video editor at a major production company in the U.S. "It's definitely been my dream to live in a big city, either New York or Los Angeles, and work for a studio," says the 22-year-old, who moved to L.A. after graduating from college in the spring of 2018. "That's still something I'm working towards, with the studio part, but at least I'm here right now, and so that's a step in the right direction of my dream." Originally from Melbourne, Parkinson went to high school in Hong Kong. "I decided that I wanted to come to America for college and to follow my dream of eventually being an editor, which is what I do now," she says. Madeline Parkinson was born in Australia. Here she is in front of the Sydney Opera House Source: Madeline Parkinson Parkinson researched schools where people she looked up to in the entertainment industry had gone and settled on the University of Texas at Austin. After finishing undergrad a year early, she landed a job as a video editor at the L.A.-based company Watch Gang, where she's been working since July 2018. "I definitely think that right now I live comfortably," she says. "I don't have to worry about my bills. I'm never like, 'Am I going to be able to pay rent?'" What she earns As an international student, Parkinson had three months to find work after graduating. "If you don't find a job in 90 days, you have to leave the country," she explains. She was feeling desperate to nail down a job and it may have affected her starting pay: When asked to name the minimum salary she would accept, Parkinson said $50,000, which she knew was on the conservative side for the position. "And then of course they came back and offered me 50. They're not dumb!" she says. "I think I should've stuck to my guns [and asked for more] ... but at the time I was very concerned that I was going to get deported." Madeline Parkinson moved to Los Angeles in July, 2018 Source: CNBC Make It She eventually wants to earn more than her $50,000 salary and is putting in the time and effort at the office so she can ask for a raise at her performance review. "What I'm working on right now is really impressing my boss, going above and beyond what I have to do," she says. Besides her 9-to-5, Parkinson spends up to 15 hours a week working on freelance video editing projects. She charges $20-$30 an hour and the side hustle earns her an extra $5,000 a year after taxes. Freelancing is "not about the money," she says. "I definitely don't need that extra $5,000 to pay my bills. I just really want to get stuff on my resume so that one day I can work at a big studio. It's more for the experience rather than the money." What she spends Here's a breakdown of everything Parkinson spends in a typical month. Parkinson pays $1,225 for her share of a two-bedroom apartment that she splits with a roommate. Included in her rent is a parking spot and access to a gym. "My rent is definitely my biggest monthly expense," she says. "I think it's about 40% of my take home. It's crazy." While she could have found a cheaper place, she says, she has a dog and wanted to live somewhere with a balcony that was close to a park and to her office: "I knew that I was going to pay a premium for that." Parkinson has always dreamed of living and working in a big city Source: Madeline Parkinson Parkinson doesn't dine out often. Instead, she splurges on groceries. "I spend around $300 to $350 a month, which is a lot," she admits. Keeping her apartment stocked with nicer food, though, helps her limit her restaurant spending to about $100 a month. While she doesn't necessarily cook elaborate meals, she likes to splurge on add-ons that can enhance simple dishes, like "expensive cheese to put on pasta to bump it up a notch," she says. She doesn't spend on coffee, but she does drink a lot of diet soda. On stressful days, "I probably go through a 12-pack," she says. She buys the off-brand kind and gets a discount with her loyalty card. "My grocery budget used to be a lot higher because I was buying real Diet Coke and a pack of 12 is like $6 or $7 at my grocery store," she says. Now, she pays about $2 for three, 12-packs and includes the expense in her food budget. Health, dental and vision insurance come straight out of Parkinson's paycheck. Combined, it costs about $85 a month. Car insurance costs her $250 a month. It's so steep because she only recently got a U.S. license. She had an Australian license up until last year. The more driving experience she gains in the States, the more the price will drop, she explains: "It is going down over time and so I hope I will see a one at the beginning of my bill rather than a two sometime soon." The $250 she pays every month includes renters insurance, she adds. "After I graduated college, something that I started to spend money on myself for was my skincare," says Parkinson. Her big monthly splurge is a facial, which costs $90 after tip. "That's something that I don't need to spend money on, but I choose to," she says. She also spends about $40 a month on makeup and various skincare products. Parkinson likes to splurge on skincare products Source: CNBC Make It Parkinson used savings from high school and college jobs, graduation money and any extra money from her first few months living in L.A. to pay for her car in cash. "I just didn't like the idea of having a car payment every month and, if I had the cash around, I thought it would be better just to pay in full and be done with it," Parkinson says. She bought a Hyundai Elantra for $17,000 last October. Since she doesn't have any car payments, her main transportation expenses are gas, which costs her about $40 a month, and parking meters, which can add up to $30 each month. I just didn't like the idea of having a car payment every month and, if I had the cash around, I thought it would be better just to pay in full. Madeline Parkinson "My dog doesn't really cost me that much every month," says Parkinson. She buys her food in bulk from Amazon: It gets delivered every other month automatically and costs $18. "I get her nails clipped at Petco once a month or once every two months," she adds, "and I buy treats and chew toys for her to have." While she typically spends $25 a month on pet supplies, there have been a few times when she's had to cover a big vet bill. "When her vaccinations comes around, it'll be like $300 for a vet visit just to get her rabies vaccination and a checkup," Parkinson adds. "But, month to month, it's nothing crazy." Parkinson's dog, Ellie Source: CNBC Make It Parkinson pays about $10 a month for Spotify Premium and a few bucks a month for Amazon Prime Student. "They still think I'm a student because I graduated a year early," she explains, "but next year I'm going to have to pay the $119 renewal." As for television, "my roommate's friends used her Hulu on our Apple TV once and it's just stayed logged in, so I don't pay for Hulu. My Netflix account is my ex's Netflix account. He knows I use it." Everything else: Utilities: $150 ($120 for her share of internet, electricity and water; $30 for her phone plan) Donations: $120 to the local animal shelter Business expenses: $50 for her editing software What she saves Parkinson saves about $730 a month: She contributes 8% of her income to a Roth 401(k), which comes to about $330, and automatically transfers $400 to a high-yield savings account, where she keeps her emergency fund. Currently, it has about $15,000 in it. She's interested in the financial independence, retire early (FIRE) movement: "I feel like early retirement gets a bad rap because that implies that you don't like your job and you want to retire and do other stuff, but I would love the financial independence to be more picky about the projects that I work on." She hasn't established any specific goals around when she wants to retire, but familiarizing herself with FIRE has inspired her to increase her savings. Right now, she's working towards maxing out her 401(k), which would mean saving $19,000 a year, the contribution limit for 2019. "Then, I would love to open a Roth IRA, with Vanguard or Fidelity or something like that, and then try and max that out," she says. I would love the financial independence to be more picky about the projects that I work on. Madeline Parkinson Parkinson also has an Australian bank account that she uses when she goes home. "There's honestly not that much money in my Australian bank account: It's my McDonald's money from when I used to work there," she says. "It's not very much, but whenever I go back I don't have to worry about exchanging currencies." The cost of living in America Because Parkinson is an Australian citizen, she needs a visa to work in the U.S. She hired an immigration attorney to help with the process. "I was responsible for finding the lawyer and taking care of all that, but some employers will pay for it for you," she explains. "Some companies have their own lawyers if they're big enough, but my company was smaller so it kind of fell on me to do the leg work, especially because I'm entry-level as well." Last year, lawyer fees cost her $7,000. "When you apply for a visa you could technically do all the paperwork yourself, but I think hiring professional help, an immigration attorney, is the way to go the first time," she says. She also spent $2,000 on flights back to Australia to go to the consulate. Her particular lawyer requested the fee in two halves. "You have to wire the money to them," Parkinson says. "You can't put it on a credit card, so if you don't have that money, you're in a very tough position." It was an expense she'd been preparing for: "I was just constantly like, 'Well, I shouldn't buy this because who knows what my lawyer fees are going to be,' and I was just saving for it." By the time she needed to make the payments, she had the money in savings. "Even though it's so expensive and a lot of money I think that I would rather be here than anywhere else right now, just because I want to be an editor and I want to be at a big studio," she says. "This is the place to be." She feels 'privileged' to live debt-free "I'm definitely in a privileged position where I didn't have to worry about student loans," says Parkinson, whose parents paid for her education. She graduated with two degrees one in radio, television and film, and the other in French from UT and finished early, in three years, to save her parents money and get into the job market sooner. Parkinson graduated from UT in May 2018 Source: Madeline Parkinson Parkinson uses a credit card, but she never carries a balance and prefers to pay it off every few days. "I definitely treat my credit card like it's a debit card," she says. She knows exactly where her money is going: "I track everything. I track things on apps. I track things on paper. I have a budget binder that I use." Tracking her expenses has helped her evolve from "an impulse shopper," she says, to a more responsible spender. As a student, "I would buy the makeup because it was shiny and American and new," she explains. "Same with food: I would buy all these snacks because I saw them in movies. ... And so I think in college I wasted a lot of money trying to become American. "I think I realized as I got older and as I graduated that I don't need to buy all these things. They're going to be there forever." I think in college I wasted a lot of money trying to become American. Madeline Parkinson What the experts say CNBC Make It asked Andrew Westlin, a certified financial planner at Betterment, to comment on what Parkinson is doing well and how she could improve. Here are his thoughts. Andrew Westlin, a certified financial planner at Betterment. Source: Betterment She has the right saving mentality Between her 401(k) contributions and the $400 she puts in a high-yield savings account every month, "she's saving about 16% of her gross income," he points out. While the amount you need to be setting aside is highly personal and depends on your goals and lifestyle, "she's gotten a really great start as far as how much she's saving." She's also smart to keep her emergency fund in a high-yield savings account, he says. By doing so, "She's making her money, even though it's conservative, work as hard as possible for her." Internet banks, like Synchrony, Ally or Marcus by Goldman Sachs, tend to offer higher interest rates than the major brick-and-mortar banks. Marcus, for example, offer 2.25% APY, while big banks that have to spend money building thousands of branches and hiring people to fill them typically offer rates closer to 0.01%. If you let a $10,000 deposit sit in a standard savings account with a major bank for a year, you'd earn about a dollar in interest, but if you put it in an online-only bank, your $10,000 deposit could yield up to $225 after one year. She's smart to invest in a Roth 401(k) Some companies, like Parkinson's, let you choose between investing in a traditional 401(k) or a Roth 401(k). Signing up for the Roth was a smart move for the 22-year-old, says Westlin. The main difference between a traditional and a Roth is when you pay taxes on your money. In a traditional 401(k), you contribute pre-tax dollars and then pay taxes on the funds when you withdraw them in retirement. With a Roth 401(k), the process is reversed: You pay taxes upfront, but you can withdraw your contributions and earnings tax-free in retirement. The reason a Roth is a particularly good option for Parkinson and anyone early in their career is because, as a younger worker, you're likely earning less today than you will be in the future. That means you're in a lower tax bracket and paying less in taxes than you would later on. Parkinson works as a video editor at Watch Gang Source: CNBC Make It When making the decision between the two types of accounts, "what you would look at is your current tax bracket versus your future tax bracket," says Westlin. "The general rule of thumb would be: If you're in a lower tax bracket now than you would be at retirement, you'd want to go with Roth-style accounts." If your situation is reversed you're in a higher tax bracket now than you will be in the future Westlin recommends going with traditional-style accounts. "You would pay taxes in the future," he explains, "but you'd be in a lower tax bracket then and pay a lower percentage tax." She could consider investing outside of her 401(k) Contributing to a 401(k) is one of the easiest ways to put your money to work, notes Westlin, since contributions are sent directly from your paycheck and you never get the chance to spend that money. However, "some 401(k) plans can have high fees and limited investment options," he says. That's why he recommends Parkinson look into her plan details and understand the investment costs, administrative fees and any other additional expenses. "No matter what, she should always save enough in her 401(k) first to get the full employer match," he says. Some companies, like Parkinson's, will match whatever contribution you put towards your 401(k) up to a certain amount. It's essentially free money. "But if the 401(k) has higher fees and limited investment choices, she should then focus on a Roth IRA before contributing more to the Roth 401(k)." No matter what, she should always save enough in her 401(k) first to get the full employer match. Andrew Westlin certified financial planner at Betterment A Roth IRA is an account designed specifically for retirement and works similarly to a Roth 401(k) in that contributions are taxed when they're made. You can't contribute as much to a Roth IRA as you can to a 401(k), though: The contribution limit for IRA plans in 2019 is $6,000 a year, or $7,000 for people age 50 or older. For 401(k) plans, the contribution limit is $19,000 a year, or $25,000 for people age 50 or older. It's OK to splurge on something that's important to you Parkinson spends a lot on skincare per month $130, with $90 of that going towards a facial and that's OK, says Westlin, especially since she's already saving for her future and is debt-free. "Saving as much as possible is great but it doesn't mean we should cut back on everything," he says. "Balance is important." Source: Madeline Parkinson "The best part is that she's already conscious of it," he adds. "And I'm sure that if things ever got in a bind, she'd be able to cut that out, at least for a period of time. Where splurges can be more harmful and where you might want to consider cutting back on them is if you are in debt already or you don't have an emergency fund or you're not saving at all." But as long as you're saving enough each month, "having that splurge is a great way to treat yourself." She could create more specific savings goals BEAVERTON, Ore. Nike, the world's biggest sneaker maker, wants to solve a problem it knows far too many people have: Which size shoes will fit? Many shoppers have gone online and ordered multiple pairs of the same style shoe, in different sizes, planning to send back what doesn't fit. The reasons are simple. Consumers often find they fit into different sizes maybe a 7.5 women's here, an 8.5 women's there depending on the brand and style. So, when it comes time to buy a new pair, there's a lot of guessing going on. It's actually, very likely you don't even know what your true shoe size is. Your feet could also be two entirely different sizes. "Fit is such a big friction point for our customers," said Michael Martin, Nike's global head of digital products. "We reached a point of realizing this was not just the biggest problem but biggest transformational opportunity that we have. ... No matter how good the shoe is, if the foot doesn't fit well within the shoe, you're not going to get peak performance from it." Now, Nike says it has a solution. The company will launch Nike Fit, a service being added in North America this July to its mobile app and in stores. Nike Fit will scan customers' feet and determine the correct size. The service will roll out to Europe in August, moving to other international markets soon after. Nike Fit is part of Nike's bigger push to sell more products directly to consumers through its own shops, website and mobile app, relying less on wholesale partners than it has in the past. And so Nike is opening new stores, like its House of Innovation in New York and Nike Live in Los Angeles, designed specifically for those markets and selling items visitors can't find anywhere else. Nike said its direct sales in 2018 were up 12%, thanks to strong e-commerce growth and the opening of new stores. And it said direct-to-consumer revenue ended the year representing roughly 30% of total Nike brand sales, up from 28% in the prior year. With a market cap of roughly $130 billion, Nike has watched its shares climb nearly 22% over the past 12 months, outpacing the S&P 500 Retail ETF's (XRT's) decline of 1.5%. Nike Fit will also help the retailer better manage inventory, cut down on returns and even entice shoppers to buy more shoes, early beta testing of the technology showed. Down to the millimeter At its core, Nike Fit will work when a customer opens the Nike app, selects a shoe to buy, and then instead of selecting a numerical size, the shopper will be presented with the option to scan his or her foot straight using a smartphone. A scan can take less than 15 seconds. And then Nike Fit will recommend a size for that particular shoe being considered. That information such as the width of the shoppers' foot, down to the millimeter will be saved for later purchases, too, because the size may vary with the style. Nike's Air Jordan shoe, for example, fits differently than other sneakers. In stores, Nike will have a similar experience, but a sales associate will do the scanning. Nike is launching Nike Fit in North America in July. Here's what the experience will look like in Nike's mobile app. Source: Nike It's staggering, data shows how many people are either squeezing into a shoe too small or have one falling off the foot. At any given time, 3 in 5 people are wearing the wrong shoe size, based on industry research, Martin said. And the biggest reason for shoes being returned whether they were purchased in store or online is because of size, he said, adding that Nike receives more than 500,000 calls each year to its customer-service line related to sizing. Return deliveries of all products will cost retailers $550 billion by 2020, according to estimates. And, worse news for consumers, wearing the wrong size shoes can lead to injuries that can sideline them from playing a sport or from going to the gym. Foot injuries can also keep you from going to work. At least 60,000 foot injuries are responsible for keeping Americans out of the office each year, according to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Consumers more than ever want to have relationships with a brand. ... Those [retailers] that are winning are serving personally. Heidi O'Neill president of Nike Direct In 2018, Nike spent an undisclosed amount to acquire Invertex, a computer-vision firm based in Israel to make Nike Fit possible. Years before this deal was finalized, Invertex had already begun working on a way to scan feet via a smartphone and make sizing recommendations, using machine learning. Invertex CEO David Bleicher said many companies were approaching him and his colleagues by 2017 for their technology. But he said Invertex ultimately chose to work Nike, viewing the retailer as an "innovation powerhouse." Bleicher now heads a digital studio for Nike in Tel Aviv, where he says Invertex is working to solve "many other challenges" in the industry. "The bigger vision is to [help Nike] create better shoes," he said. The rollout of Nike Fit isn't the first time Nike has tried to tackle the sizing issue. In 2000, the company launched its Air Presto shoe designed by Tobie Hatfield, brother of well-known Nike shoe designer Tinker Hatfield in sizes like "small," "medium" and "large," mimicking how T-shirts are sized, not using numbers. But it was more of a test to see how shoppers reacted to the stretchy material in the Presto shoes and the T-shirt sizing. And Nike eventually went back to numerical sizing for the Presto about three years ago. Barleycorn and Brannock devices But numerical sizing can still be imprecise and is incredible outdated. The shoe sizing system is archaic, dating to the 1330s. It's somewhat of an urban legend that the reigning king of England in 1334 wanted a pair of shoes custom made for him. And when they didn't fit, he grew angry and decided to make some standard system of measurement, because there was none. The legend goes he declared three barleycorns, or grains of barley, were equal to an inch. And so 21 barleycorns became equivalent to a size 7 shoe, for example. Fast forward to 1925, and the Brannock Device was made. That was an attempt by Charles Brannock to perfect the barleycorn method, adding a width measurement. You know, that (horribly uncomfortable) silver, metal tray that you slide your foot into, moving around little bars, to find your shoe size? That same Brannock is still found in Macy's shoe departments, Foot Lockers and DSWs across the country today. "It was all well-intentioned, and it all had a good purpose," said Bill Tippit, a senior engineering director at Nike, about the Brannock. "We still use it today, but it really is the thing that just destroyed fit." A shopper's foot is measured using a brannock device. Source: Getty Images Then, there are a handful of up-start sneaker makers that have been looking for ways to solve this problem, too. A Brooklyn-based company called Atoms, which sells its shoes to people only through invitations, has designed its sneakers in quarter sizes and will send customers three pairs at once. Then, a shopper can pick the two shoes that fit the left and right foot best, even if they're different quarter sizes. Outside of shoes, bra-maker ThirdLove has embraced the idea of creating the perfect fit for women. It has a "fit finder" tool on its website for shoppers to answer questions and then receive personalized bra recommendations. "The brands gaining favor with consumers today are ones who know how to relate," said Raj Nijjer, vice president of marketing at Yotpo. "They dialogue with customers, hear their pain points, and more often than not discover there's no such thing as one-size-fits-all. The brands that win are the ones that embrace their customers' individuality and deliver products with the perfect fit." Shoring up the top spot Beyond educating its customers on sizing, and hopefully helping more people avoid injuries from wearing the wrong size shoe, this technology could also be a financial boon for Nike, with its dominant position in the sneaker industry. According to NPD Group sports analyst Matt Powell, Nike is the No. 1 footwear brand in the U.S. in terms of sales, representing roughly one-third of the market, ahead of Adidas, with 11% of the market, and Under Armour. It also remains really hot among teens with money to spend. "Nike is not in any danger of giving up No. 1 by any means," Powell said. "The consumer today is looking for unique products," which Nike continues to churn out, he said. However, Adidas, while it still holds a smaller share of the U.S. market, has been growing sales in the U.S. at a faster rate. In its latest reported quarter, Adidas said North America sales grew by more than 11%, compared with a 7% gain in Nike's sales in the region. Adidas is also ramping up for a sneaker collaboration with Beyonce, which is expected to generate momentum in the U.S. In 2018, 64% of Nike brand revenues came from footwear shoe sales were $22.27 billion out of $34.49 billion in total sales. That doesn't include sales from Converse, which operates as a separate business within Nike, and so Converse sneakers won't be compatible with Nike Fit. Shoe sales were up 6% last year, excluding currency changes, thanks to strength in running, Nike said. But that was less than the 8% growth in footwear revenues in 2017, as Nike didn't sell as many Jordan shoes in 2018. When testing Nike Fit in stealth in three markets Seattle, Pasadena, California, and Dallas Martin said the company noticed conversion rates increased for the people who used Nike Fit to find the right shoe size, meaning those people were more likely to leave the store with a bag in their hands. They were also more likely to come back later and buy another pair of shoes. Nike said returns were down at those stores. And associates spent less time running back and forth to the stock room to gather other sizes. It can also help Nike stock the right inventory. Martin explained that Nike, like many shoe brands, typically ships shoes in bulk to different regions based on a standard "curve" that's long predicted for the industry how many people typically wear each shoe size. But he said that curve is not as exact as it could be. And so it's easy for companies to end up with too many size 10 sneakers in one market, when it's really the 9 that more of those people need to be wearing, for example. Data gathered from Nike Fit should help the company make its own curve of sorts. "We've never had any data coming back to understand just how accurate is that distribution," Martin said. Nike Fit is expected to help Nike grow its membership base, which amounts to more than 150 million people worldwide today. A Nike membership is free to sign up for and offers members early access to new products, a birthday reward, the ability to chat with athletes for tips on merchandise or training, and on-the-go workouts from Nike's app. The company says it's on track to increase its membership base to 300 million people, as those shoppers spend 40% more than guest customers, on average. During its six-month trial run of Nike Fit in three stores, Nike said the service was the strongest lever to boost membership sign-ups that it has found. Inside Nike's House of Innovation in New York, a concierge helps Nike Plus members find items for their taste and then tailors them to fit shoppers perfectly. Source: Nike Use of prescription opioids such as OxyContin or Vicodin fell at a record rate last year as the U.S. government cracks down on pharmacists and drugmakers that dispense the sometimes lethal painkillers, according to a report published Thursday. Prescription opioid use in the U.S. was down 17% in 2018, marking the largest annual decline ever recorded, research firm IQVIA Institute for Human Data Science said. In 1992, prescription opioid use was at roughly 22 pain pills per U.S. adult per year and rose to a peak level of 72 pills per U.S. adult in 2011, IQVIA said. Since 2011, use has declined by 43% to 34 pills per adult. The new data, unveiled in IQVIA's 2019 report on health-care trends, provides some hope for combating the nationwide opioid epidemic, which kills roughly 130 Americans every day. Just last month, a new study provided troubling news that the opioid crisis has led to a sharp increase in the death rate for overdoses by teens and young adults. The Justice Department and U.S. lawmakers have been working to combat the epidemic, such as limiting painkiller prescriptions and punishing those seen as responsible for the epidemic. On Wednesday, Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., and House Oversight Committee Chairman Elijah Cummings, D-Md., unveiled a $100 billion proposal that would fund prevention services and provide resources to programs for those battling addiction and in recovery. Last month, a former CEO of Rochester Drug Cooperative, one of the nation's largest drug distributors, was indicted on what prosecutors say are the first criminal charges against an executive of a drug company to stem from the opioid epidemic. In addition, the federal government reached a $20 million settlement with the company over its alleged role in the crisis. Separately, federal prosecutors charged 60 doctors, pharmacists and other licensed medical professionals across five states in connection with illegally prescribing more than 32 million pain pills. The indictments came as some 1,600 cases against OxyContin-maker Purdue Pharma and other opioid manufacturers are being consolidated and transferred before a judge in the Northern District of Ohio, and New York and other states begin their own massive legal fights. The report Thursday showed prescriptions for lower-dose opioids remained stable, possibly because such painkillers are still perceived by physicians and patients as relatively safe, IQVIA said. CNBC's Meg Tirrell contributed to this report. China's smartphone market is set to rebound after a soft first-quarter, according to the CEO of Apple supplier Dialog Semiconductor. In an interview on CNBC's "Squawk Box Europe" Thursday, Dialog CEO Jalal Bagherli expressed optimism in his outlook for the Chinese mobile phone market, echoing recent remarks by Apple CEO Tim Cook. "The market for mobile phones was pretty soft particularly in China in Q1, but I think from late Q1 and going forward it has started to pick up," he said. Smartphone shipments in China declined 3 percent in the first quarter of the year to the lowest level since 2013, according to recent data from research firm Canalys. Apple lowered its revenue guidance in January citing weak demand from Chinese consumers, but last week CEO Tim Cook said sales were starting to improve, in part thanks to stimulus measures coming from Beijing. While Apple's smartphone shipments declined 30 percent year-on-year in China in Q1, Chinese tech firm Huawei's shipments surged 41 percent in that period, according to Canalys. Michael Wirth, CEO of Chevron, speaking at the 2019 WEF in Davos, Switzerland on Jan. 23rd, 2019. Adam Galica | CNBC Occidental Petroleum may have spoiled Chevron's plans to acquire oil and gas driller Anadarko Petroleum, but Wall Street is not pronouncing the oil company the loser in the buyout battle. Several analysts are commending Chevron for declining to counter Occidental's $38 billion bid for Anadarko. Chevron not only walks away with a $1 billion breakup fee, but showed investors it won't sacrifice its budget sheet in a bidding war, the analysts say. The San Ramon, California-based energy giant was under pressure to hike its original $65 per share offer into the $70s after the underdog Occidental sweetened its offer this week. For Occidental, funding a $76 per share bid relied in part on agreeing to a steep 8% annual payout to Warren Buffett in order to secure a $10 billion investment from the Oracle of Omaha. "Winning By Not Overpaying" is how Wells Fargo analyst Roger Read summed up Chevron's decision. The outcome is ultimately positive for Chevron because executives proved to investors that they prioritize capital discipline and shareholder returns. Chevron also built goodwill by sticking with plans to raise its share buyback program by 25% to $5 billion per year, even though the increase was originally tied to the Anadarko deal, Read notes. Shares of Chevron were up about 3% at roughly $121 on the news Thursday. The stock had tumbled as much as 7% since Chevron announced the Anadarko deal last month. "Chevron did exactly the right thing and walked away, and the client feedback has been raining in positive," said Paul Sankey, lead oil analyst at Mizuho Securities. "The generalists particularly hated that the last decently performing sector in energy mega-cap oil was potentially losing its capital discipline." According to Sankey, Chevron stood little to gain by countering Occidental's offer, except inflicting damage on its rival by forcing Occidental to increase its own bid. Instead, Chevron kept its "hard-won" reputation for capital discipline intact, Sankey said. To be sure, by purchasing Anadarko, Chevron stood to gain valuable assets in the Permian Basin, the top U.S. shale oil region, as well as in the Gulf of Mexico and the growing liquefied natural gas market. "Losing Anadarko probably stings a bit, given how strong a fit those assets were for Chevron. But it has a great existing asset base and a runway for growth, so I don't see any pressure to turn around and do another deal out of the gate," said Andrew Dittmar, a mergers and acquisitions analyst at energy analytics firm DrillingInfo. Chevron said Thursday it will not submit a new offer to acquire Anadarko Petroleum, walking away from the deal after Occidental Petroleum pulled ahead in a battle to take control of the driller with prized assets in the top U.S. shale oil field. The decision means Chevron will collect a $1 billion breakup fee, a windfall that it could use to purchase another driller in the Permian Basin, the engine of the American oil drilling boom. Shares of the San Ramon, California-based oil major were up about 3% on Thursday. Anadarko announced on Monday that its board had unanimously decided that Occidental's revised $38 billion bid was superior to a $33 billion Chevron buyout. Anadarko said it intended to break its agreement with Chevron and strike a deal with Occidental if Chevron did not submit a better offer. Occidental, with backing from Warren Buffett's Berkshire Hathaway, offered to pay 78% cash and 22% stock for Anadarko, while the Chevron transaction was structured as a 75% stock and 25% cash deal. Michael Wirth, CEO of Chevron. Adam Jeffery | CNBC "Winning in any environment doesn't mean winning at any cost. Cost and capital discipline always matter, and we will not dilute our returns or erode value for our shareholders for the sake of doing a deal," Chevron Chairman and CEO Michael Wirth said in a statement. Chevron surprised the market on Thursday by announcing that it still intends to raise its share buyback program to $5 billion per year. Two weeks ago, Chevron executives told analysts the increase was contingent on the deal closing. By taking control of Anadarko, Chevron stood to acquire the driller's vast acreage in the Permian region stretching from western Texas to southeastern New Mexico. Chevron is a major player in the Permian and plans to double its production from the basin by 2023. The deal also would have combined Chevron and Anadarko's offshore operations in the Gulf of Mexico, a source of precious cash flow. Chevron also prized Anadarko's liquefied natural gas export project in Mozambique, which would have expanded its footprint in the growing LNG market. However, Chevron was outmaneuvered by its much smaller rival. After Occidental put in a higher bid, it secured a $10 billion investment from Berkshire Hathaway and arranged to sell Anadarko's African operations to French oil giant Total for $8.8 billion. Beijing has made adequate preparations to respond to the U.S. on trade, the Chinese Ministry of Commerce said Thursday. Chinese Vice Premier Liu He and his team are in the U.S. on Thursday and Friday for an 11th round of negotiations on trade issues. U.S. President Donald Trump unexpectedly announced on Sunday that tariffs on $200 billion worth of Chinese goods would increase to 25% this Friday, citing lack of progress on trade talks. At the same time the Chinese side has already prepared a response for all kinds of outcomes, Gao Feng, commerce ministry spokesperson, said in Mandarin, according to a CNBC translation. He was speaking at Thursday's weekly press conference. He added that hopefully the U.S. and Chinese sides can resolve trade issues through negotiations, not one-sided actions. On Sunday, President Trump announced on Twitter that tariffs would "shortly" be applied to $325 billion worth of imported goods from China, effectively putting duties on all Chinese goods sent to the U.S. Tweet In response to a CNBC question about China's reaction and the impact of those additional tariffs, Gao said, "We have explained many times that tariffs are not a way to resolve the issue." He noted that U.S. companies and the world economy would be negatively affected by such tariffs, and did not comment on the direct impact of duties to China's economy. Gao did acknowledge in a report released at Thursday's press conference that in light of international organizations' downgrade of their view on global trade, unilateralism and protectionism, China's exports do face downward pressure. Beijing has remained relatively reserved in its response to Trump's latest threats on tariffs, including the president's comment Thursday morning Beijing time that China broke the deal. On Wednesday, Reuters reported, citing sources, that late last week the Chinese side reverted on basically all the points the trade negotiators had agreed upon so far. The Ministry of Commerce did not put out a statement on countermeasures until late Wednesday night local time, about three days after Trump's tweets. China's top trade negotiator, Liu He, will meet with President Donald Trump's trade team on Thursday without the title "special envoy" for President Xi Jinping, a role he has held in previous talks, suggesting the vice premier may have diminished authority to make concessions that could be key to striking a deal. A source on the Chinese side told CNBC's Eunice Yoon that Liu's demotion suggests that he may not have much leeway to make compromises on his own. That could leave negotiations to happen at a higher level. On Thursday afternoon, Trump said that Xi had written him a "beautiful letter" that he had "just received," and said he will probably speak to Xi by phone. The news of Liu's title change comes as Washington and Beijing wrestle over the contours of a trade deal that has faced a number of setbacks in recent days. In this handout released by the U.S. Navy, an X-47B Unmanned Combat Air System (UCAS) demonstrator is towed into the hangar bay of the aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) May 13, 2013 in the Atlantic Ocean. The Trump administration has charged a former intelligence analyst with leaking classified information about the Obama administration's military campaigns against al-Qaeda, according to an indictment unsealed Thursday. The leaked documents appear to be related to President Barack Obama's targeted killing program that involved the use of drones. Daniel Hale, who served in the Air Force and as an analyst for a defense contractor, was charged in March by a grand jury in Virginia with leaking secret and top secret documents in 2013 and 2014 to a reporter for an unnamed news outlet that appears to be The Intercept. Hale faces up to 10 years in prison for each of the five charges brought against him, the Department of Justice wrote in a release. Hale is expected to make an appearance Thursday at a federal courthouse in Nashville, it said. The Intercept did not respond to a request for comment. In a post on Twitter, Hale's attorney Jesselyn Radack wrote that the Justice Department has a "clear disdain for investigative journalism." Radack tweet In a statement, Gabe Rottman, the director of the Technology and Press Freedom Project at the Reporters Committee for Freedom of the Press, wrote that the indictment against Hale marked the Trump administration's seventh prosecution of a government employee alleged to have disclosed secrets to the press. "The Trump administration treats these cases which, until a decade ago were virtually unheard of as just another day at the office," Rottman wrote. "The normalization of leak prosecutions under the Espionage Act a law meant for spies, not reporters' sources should concern us all." The indictment alleges that Hale printed 11 secret and top secret documents that were later published by the news outlet and in a book by the reporter, who appears to be investigative journalist Jeremy Scahill. Six of those documents were published in October 2015, the indictment alleges. That month, The Intercept published "The Drone Papers," a series of investigative articles the outlet said was based on a cache of secret documents obtained from a whistleblower. In one article in the series, Scahill wrote that the unnamed source provided the documents because "he believes the public has a right to understand the process by which people are placed on kill lists and ultimately assassinated on orders from the highest echelons of the U.S. government." The indictment details a number of communications between Hale and the reporter, including three conversations over the encrypted messaging app Jabber. The indictment says that in April 2013, Hale attended an event at a Washington book store where he met the reporter. Scahill was then promoting his book "Dirty Wars" about the United States' increasing use of special operations forces and drones in the Middle East. "Dirty Wars" was also released as a documentary film that year. In May, Hale texted a friend that the reporter "wants me to tell my story about working with drones at the opening screening of his documentary about war and the use of drones." In July, the indictment alleges, Hale provided the reporter with a copy of his unclassified resume and highlighted his experience operating "payloads on remotely piloted vehicles." The indictment alleges that the following February, Hale used a work computer to print six documents that were "unrelated to his work" as an analyst. Four hours later, Hale and the reporter discussed meeting in Washington, according to a text exchange included in the indictment. In the following months, the indictment alleges, Hale provided 5 more classified documents that were later published by the outlet. The last documents noted in the indictment were published in December 2016. Scahill and the staff of The Intercept published a book, "The Assassination Complex: Inside the Government's Secret Drone Warfare Program," in May of that year. The Intercept has come under scrutiny for its handling of documents provided by sources in the past. Reality Winner, a former Air Force linguist, was sentenced to more than five years in prison last year after being convicted of leaking a document to The Intercept related to Russian efforts to interfere in the 2016 presidential election. Betsy Reed, The Intercept's editor-in-chief, writing about the Winner case in 2017, said, "it is clear that we should have taken greater precautions to protect the identity of a source who was anonymous even to us." The majority of American voters give a thumbs up to Democratic presidential candidate Elizabeth Warren's plan to cancel student debt. In a new Politico/Morning Consult poll, 56% of registered voters said they support the Massachusetts senator's proposal to wipe out $640 billion in outstanding education loans by raising taxes on the wealthiest Americans. Just 27% of voters said they opposed the plan. The poll was conducted between May 3 and May 6 and included 1,990 registered voters. The survey has a margin of error of plus or minus 2 percentage points. More from Personal Finance: Your child's sports could be sabotaging your finances Here are the best and worst jobs of 2019 Retirees are flocking to these hot spots Nearly 45 million Americans hold student loans today, and education debt has surpassed credit card or auto debt. Warren is the only presidential candidate to issue a detailed plan on student debt forgiveness. Under it, borrowers with household incomes under $100,000 would have $50,000 of their student debt canceled, and those who earn $100,000 to $250,000 would be eligible for relief on a sliding scale. "My broad cancellation plan is a real solution to our student debt crisis," Warren wrote on Medium last month. "It helps millions of families and removes a weight that's holding back our economy." Women were more likely (37%) than men (31%) to "strongly support" the proposal. Nearly two-thirds of the country's outstanding student loan debt is held by women, due, in part, to the wage gap, which makes it harder for women to pay off their debt as quickly as men. The plan is not just popular among young voters. In fact, 52% of people aged 18 to 29 "strongly support" the debt cancellation plan, compared with 60% of those aged 45 to 54. Student debt has been rising quickly among older people, as repayment timelines drag on and parent borrowing increases. Voters who make under $50,000 a year were more likely (59%) to support the plan than those who earned over $100,000 (47%). While more than half of Democratic voters strongly support the plan, just 17% of Republicans do. Overall, even 52% of voters who've never taken out student loans approve of Warren's proposal. Though among people who currently have student debt, that support rises to 75%. Protesters take part in a demonstration against Hong Kong's proposed extradition law on April 28, 2019. Anthony Kwan | Getty Images A Hong Kong government proposal to allow extraditions to mainland China is stoking fresh anxiety about the resilience of local autonomy in the financially important former British colony. The territory retained its own laws, courts, currency and civil service when Britain transferred sovereignty to the People's Republic of China on July 1, 1997 in a historic handover broadcast worldwide. Hong Kong also enjoys freedom of speech and the internet in contrast to strict controls next door and its transparent legal system is a key attraction for foreign banks, businesses and investors. The proposed extradition law, however, is just the latest development suggesting the unique framework known as "one country, two systems" in which Beijing handles defense and foreign affairs and promises to keep Hong Kong's local management in place until at least 2047 is under increasing stress. The local bar association, business organizations, human rights groups and others have expressed apprehension about the proposal, as have foreign governments. The U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission, mandated by Congress, issued a brief Tuesday slamming the plan. If it's passed, the commission said, the rule would "increase the territory's susceptibility to Beijing's political coercion and further erode Hong Kong's autonomy." Kurt Tong, the U.S. consul general in Hong Kong, described worries in the foreign community, including businesses, as "palpable" in an interview shown Saturday on public service broadcaster RTHK. "We sense real concern about this," Tong said, adding that unease is compounded by a lack of "careful explanation." The idea has sparked protests, the latest on April 28 drawing more than 20,000 people, while opposition lawmakers in the local Legislative Council are working to stop it. On Saturday, nearly 300 people, many shouting slogans, watched lawmakers engage in heated debate on live video outside the council building. Ava Sit, a university student, said she fears China will take advantage of any changes and try to limit Hong Kong's freedoms. "I don't want Hong Kong to lose its democracy under PRC rule," she told CNBC, referring to the country's official name, the People's Republic of China. 'Rights and freedoms' Hong Kong's government has said its proposed law is not aimed specifically at facilitating extraditions to mainland China. Rather, it says it's seeking to remedy a legal "loophole" so as to be able to send suspected criminals to jurisdictions with which it has no transfer agreement. "The rule of law and judicial independence are the core values of the (Hong Kong government)," the local government said in a statement Wednesday responding to the U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission brief. The government "attaches utmost importance to these values and is determined to fully safeguard them and the safety of all members of the public." Supporters stress safeguards such as the exclusion of crimes of a political nature and those subject to the death penalty, as well as veto power over court-ordered extraditions by Hong Kong's top official mean fears are unfounded. "If you say you're worried, effectively you're saying you don't trust our own judiciary," Ronny Tong, a lawyer and advisor to Hong Kong Chief Executive Carrie Lam, told reporters at the Foreign Correspondents' Club on May 2 in a debate with legislator Dennis Kwok. The impetus came after a murder in February last year allegedly by a Hong Kong citizen in Taiwan who later fled home. It highlighted not only the lack of an extradition mechanism with the self-governed island, but also with other places including China and nearby Macau, which is a semi-autonomous Chinese region like Hong Kong. Carrie Lam Cheng Yuet-Ngor,(Right) Hong Kong's new Chief Executive and her new cabinet are sworn in by Chinese President Xi Jinping during an inauguration ceremony in Hong Kong Keith Tsuji | Getty Images Opponents say there are ad hoc judicial procedures to handle situations such as the Taiwan case and question why the government would be willing to weaken its legal system in relation to China. "This exception that we have in our laws, that we do not extradite people to other parts of mainland China, was not a mistake, it was not a loophole," Kwok said at the debate. "It was deliberately put there in order to safeguard the rights and freedoms of the Hong Kong people." Kwok expressed a worry that China, where he said the legal system is not independent and utilizes forced confessions, would abuse any extradition arrangement. "They could weaponize this system the same way they've weaponized their own system against their own citizens," he said. China's foreign ministry office in Hong Kong did not respond to a request from CNBC for comment on Kwok's characterization and has appeared to largely stay out of the fray. It said on its website last month that any legal change to allow extraditions "is an internal affair" of the local government. But Geng Shuang, a spokesman at the foreign ministry in Beijing, criticized the U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission brief, saying at a regular press conference on Wednesday that China opposes "any foreign interference in Hong Kong's affairs because they are entirely China's internal affairs," according to a transcript on the ministry website. The extradition law fight is far from the only issue to raise questions over a perceived unwillingness by Hong Kong's government to defend local freedoms. In an unprecedented move in October, it expelled a British journalist who hosted a local independence advocate for a speech at the Foreign Correspondents' Club that angered Beijing. Last month nine people were convicted in relation to 2014 protests for fuller democracy in Hong Kong, with four getting prison terms. One twist this time is that normally apolitical business groups are speaking out. The Hong Kong General Chamber of Commerce in March called for "extreme caution and care" in pursuing the plan. The American Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong said the city risks losing its unique appeal. Such stances surprised some as the business community generally avoids statements even indirectly critical of China and Hong Kong's relationship with the mainland. "Given that the local business community has always been seen as pro-establishment and friendly towards Beijing, there is a rich irony" in such outspokenness, Tamy Tam, editor-in-chief of the local South China Morning Post owned by Chinese billionaire Jack Ma's Alibaba Group wrote in a column last month. A woman holds a Chinese-language sign saying "withdraw the evil law" at a protest outside the Legislative Council in Hong Kong on Saturday, May 4, 2019, as local lawmakers debated a proposal to allow extraditions to mainland China. Kelly Olsen | CNBC Huawei Technologies Chief Financial Officer Meng Wanzhou is escorted by security as she leaves her home on May 8, 2019 in Vancouver, Canada. Wanzhou is in court prior to extradition hearings and could face criminal charges of conspiracy and fraud in the U.S. Jeff Vinnick | Getty Images News | Getty Images Huawei CFO Meng Wanzhou intends to seek a stay of her extradition proceedings with her lawyers citing politics and recent comments made by U.S. President Donald Trump among other reasons why the case should be thrown out. Meng, who is also the daughter of Huawei's founder Ren Zhengfei, was arrested in December by Canadian authorities at the request of the U.S. government. She was charged with bank and wire fraud in relation to violating American sanctions on Iran. Her lawyers laid out their legal arguments in a Vancouver court on Wednesday local time with Meng in attendance. What was her legal defense? The U.S. alleges that Meng lied to a bank about Huawei's relationship with an unofficial subsidiary in Iran called Skycom in order to get banking services. Her lawyers reiterated her innocence and said that the bank had knowledge of the nature of Skycom's business and operations in Iran and understood the company's relationship with Huawei. Meng's defense also brought up issues with her arrest in December in Vancouver International Airport. Her legal team alleged that during the three hours she was held, her luggage was detained and searched and her cellphone and electronic devices were taken at the direction of the U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation. They claim she was made to give up her passwords to those devices. Meng's lawyer said "her rights were put in total suspension" and will ask for more disclosures about what happened. The Huawei CFO's defense also argued that the extradition request from the U.S. does not satisfy a requirement known as "double criminality." That means that the crime of which she is accused of by the U.S. also needs to be a crime in Canada. Meng is accused of violating U.S. sanctions on Iran. Since Canada does not have sanctions on financial services in Iran, they argue that she cannot be extradited for the alleged bank and wire fraud and conspiracy to commit bank and wire fraud. And finally, Meng's lawyers argued that there are political factors at play in the process. Her lawyers said "statements from President Trump are intimidating and coercive." They did not specify which statements, but Trump has previously hinted that he could intervene in Meng's case if it helped seal a U.S.-China trade deal. "We have maintained that her U.S.-ordered arrest was an unlawful abuse of process one guided by political considerations and tactics, not by the rule of law," Huawei said in a statement after the hearing. What next? A support vessel maneuvers near the crude oil tanker 'Devon' as it sails through the Persian Gulf towards Kharq Island oil terminal to transport crude oil to export markets in Bandar Abbas, Iran, on Mar. 23, 2018. Ali Mohammadi | Bloomberg | Getty Images Tanker-tracking firms believe Iran is once again shipping crude oil to Syria, resuming the illicit trade as tensions with Washington rise and the Islamic Republic faces increasing international isolation. An Iranian delivery of approximately one million barrels of crude was made into the Syrian port of Baniyas during the first week of May, according to TankerTrackers.com and ClipperData, two groups that follows oil vessels. This would be the first Iranian oil delivery to Syria since the end of 2018, according to Samir Madani, founder of TankerTrackers. The suspected delivery comes one year after the U.S. unilaterally pulled out of an international nuclear agreement with Iran and just one week after the Trump administration tightened energy sanctions in an effort to push Iranian crude exports to zero. It also follows the deployment of a U.S. carrier strike group and bomber task force to the Middle East earlier this week. Iran's leadership in Tehran responded on Wednesday by announcing it will stop complying with key parts of the nuclear accord. The same day, Washington slapped new sanctions on Iranian metal exports. Analysts have widely predicted that Iran will step up efforts to smuggle oil into Syria and neighboring Iraq as the U.S. makes it more difficult for Tehran to ship oil to its few remaining customers, including China, India and Turkey. Madani, the TankerTrackers founder, has tracked Iranian vessels for nearly three years, both through data collected by the U.S. Coast Guard and what he calls, "eyes in the sky," essentially visual data collected by a network of satellites. This allows the group to track tankers that may turn off their transponders a common move for those selling oil off the markets. The most recent moves by an Iranian tanker, previously known as True Ocean, caught the attention of both tracking companies when the vessel made a series of unusual moves. The Suezmax tanker in question, now traveling as the Masal, is on the U.S Treasury's list of vessels that has been used to move oil to Syria in the past. Based on the U.S. Coast Guard's AIS data, the Masal left Iran in March heading towards the eastern ports of Turkey. Madani points out that this was the first sign that things were different. Typically Iranian tankers head to the western ports where Turkish refineries are based. Once in Turkey, the vessel is said to have anchored for three weeks before leaving the port of Iskenderun, still carrying a million barrels of oil. This tipped off TankerTrackers to keep a close eye on the Masal. However, the tanker eventually went offline, switching off its transponder near the Syrian shoreline. According to TankerTrackers and ClipperData, the Masal didn't come back online until May 7, at which point it had unloaded its cargo near the port of Baniyas where Syria's largest refinery is located. It then began making its way back to Iran. The Foreign Ministry of Iran did not immediately return a request for clarification on the suspected delivery to Syria. ClipperData says the Masal is the second ship carrying Iranian oil that has been caught going dark in the Mediterranean since April. Iranian President Hassan Rouhani makes a speech during a ceremony in Tehran, Iran on January 10, 2019. Anadolu Agency | Anadolu Agency | Getty Images DUBAI Iran could be playing with fire as it threatens to ditch its commitments to the 2015 Iranian nuclear deal, officially known as the JCPOA (the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action), in the face of crippling U.S. sanctions. If Europe does not step in to protect Iran from those sanctions, salvaging trade with its oil and banking sectors in violation of U.S. rules, Tehran says it will return to higher levels of uranium enrichment, which would potentially pave the way for bomb-making capabilities. But how close is the Islamic Republic to having a bomb? How real is the threat? Richard Nephew, who served as the State Department's lead sanctions expert for negotiations with Iran from 2013 to 2014, doesn't see an imminent nuclear threat. Rather, he told CNBC, this turn of events heralds a slower but no less dangerous march in that direction. "This is not a decision that will lead Iran to build a bomb. But it foreshadows a really severe escalation path, especially the 60-day threat to ramp up enrichment levels and work on the Arak reactor," Nephew told CNBC. 60 days to find a solution Iranian President Hassan Rouhani announced Wednesday that the country would break off some key commitments to the 2015 nuclear deal that had kept caps on its nuclear activities, giving EU leaders 60 days to negotiate a solution. The deal, enacted under the Obama administration, was meant to lift sanctions on Iran in exchange for limits to its nuclear program, until the U.S. withdrew from it last year under the direction of President Donald Trump. That's my chief worry: the threat and counter threat dynamic that leaves no one with room to climb down. Richard Nephew Former lead sanctions expert, U.S. State Department Iran's announced breaches include keeping its unspent enriched uranium instead of selling it, which would increase its stockpile of feedstock for nuclear reactors, and restarting construction on its Arak nuclear reactor, which was capable of producing weapons-grade plutonium activities both halted under the nuclear deal. If carried out, those actions could prompt aggressive countermeasures from the U.S. or Israel, former diplomats told CNBC. "That's my chief worry," Nephew, now a senior fellow at the Brookings Institute, added. "The threat and counter threat dynamic that leaves no one with room to climb down and, to be contrary, seems certain to increase the chance of full Iranian nuclear restart." 'This is a serious threat' Henry Rome, Iran analyst at risk consultancy Eurasia Group, sees a similar opening for greater escalation and confrontation between the U.S. and Iran. The developments from Tehran "do not immediately bring (Iran) closer to a nuclear weapon," Rome said in a research note Wednesday. "But Iran's decision to openly chip away at its nuclear commitments marks the beginning of a new and concerning dynamic between the U.S. and Iran that is ripe for miscalculation." The 60-day threat is what concerns Rome and Nephew the most: Iran has proposed exceeding its JCPOA enrichment cap of 3.67%, which is the amount allowed for civilian nuclear power development. Weapons-grade enrichment is 90%, but according to nuclear experts, reaching 3 to 4% enrichment equates to roughly two-thirds of the work done toward that 90% figure, as any increases beyond that seemingly small amount disproportionately speed up breakout time. "This is a serious threat," Rome said. Experts including Anne Harrington, a lecturer in international relations at Cardiff University with a focus on nuclear nonproliferation, puts the current breakout time for Iran reaching bomb-making capability at one year. Europe 'rejects any ultimatums' EU leaders, for their part, promptly responded Thursday by saying they "reject any ultimatums" but remain committed to the deal. Iran now finds itself in a high-stakes gamble, where it could very well lose all goodwill from Europe while providing Washington justification for harsher action and even military strikes. Iranian officials have stressed that their move is legal and reversible, emphasizing the two-month window for diplomatic action. A spokesman for Iran's atomic energy agency said Thursday that the country wants to bring the nuclear deal "back on track." WASHINGTON Jeff Bezos, chairman of Amazon and founder of Blue Origin, unveiled his space company's lunar lander for the first time on Thursday. "This vehicle is going to the moon," Bezos said during an invite-only presentation to media and space industry executives. "We were given a gift this nearby body called the moon," Bezos said. He added that the moon is a good place to begin manufacturing in space due to its lower gravity than the Earth. Getting resources from the moon "takes 24 times less energy to get it off the surface compared to the Earth," Bezos said, and "that is a huge lever." The Blue Moon lander can bring 3.6 metric tons to the lunar surface, according to Bezos. Bezos also unveiled the company's BE-7 rocket engine at the event. The engine will be test fired for the first time this summer, Bezos said. It's largely made of "printed" parts, he added. "We need the new engine and that's what this is," Bezos said. BE-7 photo "It's time to go back to the moon and this time stay," Bezos said. Blue Origin, established nearly two decades ago, has remained relatively quiet about the rockets, engines and capsules it is developing. With its Latin tagline of "step by step, ferociously," Blue Origin has been working on multiple space systems at the same time. Bezos invests more than $1 billion in the company each year, through sales of his Amazon shares. Vice President Mike Pence earlier this year directed NASA to return U.S. astronauts to the surface of the moon within the next five years. NASA administrator Jim Bridenstine answered by saying the agency will meet the White House's directive, which represents an acceleration of NASA's existing lunar exploration timeline. NASA's fiscal 2020 budget request included a massive increase in funding of the the Advanced Cislunar and Surface Capabilities (ACSC) program. Under ACSC, the agency would first send robots to the surface without crews, later following up with astronauts. Despite internal hesitancy, NASA is considering commercial alternatives such as Blue Origin for getting astronauts to the moon's surface. "I love Vice President Pence's 2024 lunar landing goal," Bezos said, adding that Blue Origin can meet that timeline "because we started this three years ago." Facebook co-founder Chris Hughes called for the company to be broken up in a New York Times op-ed Thursday, saying CEO Mark Zuckerberg's power has become too vast. According to CNBC's Jim Cramer, that's not a move that even the president best known for smashing monopolies like Standard Oil would make. "I don't think TR would break up Facebook," Cramer said on "Squawk on the Street," referring to former President Theodore Roosevelt, whose administration was known for its strong enforcement of antitrust measures. "For a long time all we cared about was that foreign companies were killing us," Cramer said. "So then we suddenly have these fabulous companies that are really dominant, and now we have to worry that our own dominant companies are killing us? Shouldn't we be proud?" In his op-ed, Hughes argued that Zuckerberg now has "unilateral control over speech" and the company's strategy of acquiring and copying other businesses that could potentially compete with it has kept the social media landscape free from real threats to Facebook. Cramer refuted the idea that Facebook is a monopoly that needs to be broken up, arguing that users can log off any time they'd like. "In the end, this is a social media site," Cramer said. "It's not the American party like the Communist Party or the Soviet Union, I mean it's a darn social media site." Subscribe to CNBC on YouTube. Watch: Facebook co-founder Chris Hughes calls for the breakup of the company The evening reception had a host committee of Hollywood luminaries including DreamWorks co-founder Jeffrey Katzenberg, executive and producer Peter Chernin, actor Rob Reiner and Terry Press, the president of CBS Films, according to the event's invitation. It took place at the home of interior designer Michael Smith and James Costos, a former ambassador to Spain under President Barack Obama, the invite shows. Joe Biden raked in over $700,000 on Wednesday at a Hollywood fundraiser, one of the biggest hauls so far in the former vice president's campaign to take on President Donald Trump in 2020. The total eclipsed what Biden raised at his 2020 campaign's first fundraising event in Philadelphia at the home of Comcast executive David Cohen, which was estimated to bring in just over $500,000. More than 300 people showed up at the Hollywood fundraiser, but not all of them cut checks for the maximum individual amount of $2,800. People familiar with the planning told CNBC that it was "opened up to young professionals," including some who gave $500 to get in the door. Many of the donors came from New York, New Jersey, Delaware, Massachusetts, Florida and Tennessee, the people said. The event's planning and the mix of donor levels shows that Biden is attempting to appeal to a wider array of contributors. Going into his campaign, many top party donors expressed skepticism to Biden about whether he would be able to pull off a successful fundraising operation. Then, on the first day of his campaign, Biden raised $6.3 million more than any of his rivals did in their first 24 hours on the trail. Biden announced his candidacy April 25. Biden, in his remarks to donors Wednesday, vowed to unite the country if he defeats Trump. "I promise you if we elect a Democrat this time I predict to you whether it's me or someone else, but I guarantee you if it's me what's gonna happen is, we're going to see this country come together like it hasn't in a long time," Biden said. "Because people are tired, they're sick and tired of what's happening. Let's lift our heads up. Again, not a joke, remember who the hell we are. And let's go take it back." Biden's fundraising tour will continue later this month when he travels to Florida for an event reportedly being hosted by attorney John Morgan, who has been a fierce advocate of legalizing marijuana. Biden also plans to head to Nashville. A spokesperson for the Biden campaign did not return a request for comment. WATCH: Where the 2020 Democratic front-runners stand on issues North Korea fired unidentified projectiles on Thursday, according to the South Korean military, less than a week after leader Kim Jong Un oversaw the test-firing of multiple rockets and missiles. "We confirmed that North Korea fired two rounds of missiles towards (an) eastern direction from Northern Pyongan Province at 16:29 p.m. and 16:49 p.m. (local time). Estimated travel distances were 420 km, 270 km, respectively," a South Korean military official told NBC News. The Northern Pyongan Province is an area located to the west of the country. The South Korean and U.S. authorities are conducting analysis for more detailed information and NBC News also said that the chief national security advisor in South Korea is monitoring the situation. "(The) South Korea military has reinforced surveillance and vigilance for any more North Korean missile launches, and is maintaining fully preparedness by cooperating with the U.S.," the official added. The suspected short-range missiles appear to have been launched from a location near a missile base in Sino-Ri, according to the Dow Jones news agency. This is about 130 miles north of the demilitarized zone. The new launches come as the U.S. Special Representative for North Korea, Stephen Biegun, travels to Seoul to meet with officials and discuss denuclearization efforts. The escalating conflict between the United States and Iran is a major trigger for oil prices, and it's not getting enough attention from investors, said energy expert John Kilduff. "The situation with Iran is just off the charts right now in terms of being red-hot," Kilduff, founding partner of Again Capital, said Thursday on CNBC's "Futures Now." From the Trump administration's increasingly hawkish position on Iran, to the U.S. military's recent involvement in the region, to newly instated U.S. sanctions on Iran's metal exports, "the potential for an incident ... [is] really, really high," Kilduff warned. "They are experiencing economic strangulation that would make any sort of normal country act out at some point," he said. "I think that's what's supporting this oil price. That's why it can't break down, because you are subject to coming in one morning with some kind of incident. I'm not saying a blockage of the Strait of Hormuz or something severe, but some kind of tit for tat that will spook this oil market to the upside in a big way." The key level Kilduff is watching is the now-infamous $60-a-barrel threshold. West Texas Intermediate oil prices have been unable to break below that level since they crossed above it in late March. "Just this week, we got as low as $60.04 and we bounced back up," Kilduff noted. "If you've been watching [oil prices] closely, they seem to be hanging out right around the $62 level, which is sort of the upside barrier. So, to the extent we can put in more time above that level, you're really looking at, I think, an upside run more than anything else in the short term." That could spell trouble for President Donald Trump, who has called numerous times for international oil producers to drive down the price of crude. But from an investor's perspective, Kilduff sees the necessary support levels in place for oil to tick higher, with Saudi Arabia and Iraq poised to fill the gap left by the now-sanctioned Iran. "Interestingly enough, though, the Saudis and the Iraqis have jacked up their prices to the Asian customers who have lost their Iranian barrels, so there's a stinginess there," Kilduff said. "The Saudis are not rushing to fill the gap like they did at the end of last year. So, again, another reason why these oil prices are somewhat supported right now." U.S. crude prices failed to hold above $62 on Thursday, settling at $61.70. They are down more than 6% from their 2019 high, but are still up nearly 36% year to date. Also on Thursday, Iran appeared to restart oil shipments to Syria, according to companies that track maritime tankers, following a Wednesday announcement by Iran's leaders that they would stop complying with certain facets of the 2015 nuclear deal. Meghan Markle, Duchess of Sussex, has been known to buck royal protocol. But when she and Prince Harry introduced new baby Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor to the world on Wednesday, he was wrapped in a blanket that was in line with tradition. Archie made his debut wrapped in the Ivory White Leaves and Flowers Baby Shawl from G.H. Hurt & Son, which you can buy online for $172. Prince William and Kate Middleton's little ones Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis were each wrapped in a baby shawl from the same brand for their debuts, as were Princes William and Harry when they were babies. In fact, the tradition began with Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, when they swaddled Prince Charles in a blanket from G.H. Hurt & Son's, according to Town & Country. The United States needs to be tough on China during trade negotiations but the way President Donald Trump is going about it is worrying, Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., told CNBC on Thursday. Trump on Thursday called tariffs an "excellent" alternative to a trade deal, hours before Chinese officials were set to meet U.S. trade negotiators in Washington. "The kind of gamesmanship that we're playing right now really worries me. I don't see the end game here in terms of the tit-for-tat the president is playing with the Chinese," Blumenthal, who sits on the Judiciary Committee, said on "Squawk Alley." On Sunday, Trump announced that U.S. tariffs on $200 billion worth of Chinese goods would jump to 25% because the Chinese were attempting to renegotiate terms of the deal. The increase is set to kick in at 12:01 a.m. ET Friday. However, the president has suggested the administration may reverse the decision, depending on how negotiations go. China's Vice Premier Liu He is set to dine with Trump's trade team Thursday evening, just a few hours before the deadline. "It's possible to do it; they're all here," Trump told reporters at the White House on Thursday. However, he also said, "Our alternative is an excellent one." "It's an alternative I've spoken about for years. We'll take in well over a hundred billion dollars a year. We never took in 10 cents from China," Trump said, referring to additional tariffs he promised to impose on China. "And I think it'll be a very strong day, frankly. But we'll see." On Wednesday night, Trump said that China "broke the deal." Those remarks sent the market plunging on Thursday, but stocks cut their losses later in the day after the president said a trade deal is still possible. Blumenthal called the escalating tariff threats "a game of chicken." He said, however, there are pressing issues that need to be dealt with, such as the allegations of intellectual property theft and China's currency manipulation. "I support certainly driving a hard bargain and insisting on fair treatment for our intellectual property, for our currency, for our products sold abroad," he said. "We need to insist on a hard line." CNBC's Kevin Breuninger contributed to this report. SoftBank Group Corp. Chairman and CEO Masayoshi Son speaks during a press conference on May 9, 2018 in Tokyo, Japan. SoftBank is launching a second $100 billion tech fund: Vision Fund II, the company's chief said Thursday. "This is the first time that they're officially announcing that we would like to start preparing for the establishment of the SoftBank Vision Fund II," SoftBank chief Masayoshi Son said on the company's earnings call. Son said the second fund will match the size of the first fund, Vision Fund I, which is $100 billion. SoftBank would like to keep some of the same investors because of its great performance but the size, structure and timing of the new fund are still being discussed. The SoftBank chief said many investors from the first fund are showing "high interest" in Vision Fund II, as well a new investors worldwide. "I am getting a lot of inbound calls," Son told CNBC's David Faber back on March 7. "They would like to invest into our next investments." But he said on the call last night SoftBank would like to start with 100% of its own money and then invite other investors on. SoftBank's Vision Fund I is a $100 billion tech fund dominated by investments from the Saudi Arabian government. The fund has already delivered a 45% rate of return to partners after fees on a net equity basis. Return to SoftBank's shareholders is 62%. Son said these returns are "too high" on the call and explained he has to manage expectations and "be cautious" because the company may not be able to deliver the same high returns next year. Vision Fund I is know for dumping billions of dollars into technology and telecom companies like Uber, which is set to go public on the New York Stock Exchange on Friday, Slack, and The We Company, formerly known as WeWork. As the biggest single investor in Uber, the company's IPO will be a a big moment for SoftBank. Son said its a chance for Uber's values to "be materialized going forward." Son emphasized that fact that Uber is not a taxi company, but rather and artificial intelligence company. With Uber centered around a major technology like AI, its easy for SoftBank's fund to create synergy around them, he said. The Vision Fund I also invests in tech companies like Apple, Qualcomm, and Foxconn. The earnings call came after the Japanese money giant reported better-than-expected annual profit. SoftBank's operating profit for the year ended March rose more than 80% to 2.4 trillion or $22 billion. The company also announced that SoftBank's common stock will be split at a two-for-one ration starting June 27; however, the company's dividend will stay the same at 44 yen per share. SoftBank's stock is up nearly 60% this year and Son said investors were finally enjoying a "fruitful moment" but he won't be satisfied until SoftBank is one of the biggest internet companies in the world by market cap. Son declined to comment about a potential IPO of Vision Fund I. Japanese conglomerate SoftBank Group Corp announced a stock split while keeping the per-share dividend unchanged for the year, effectively doubling its shareholder payout, as it also reported a better-than-expected annual profit. The news comes at a time when SoftBank and its almost $100 billion Vision Fund stand at a possible inflection point with some of its big tech bets like Uber Technologies heading to trading markets, in what investors and industry experts see as a test of SoftBank's strategy. The group is also considering listing the Saudi-backed Vision Fund, which has invested roughly $80 billion in around 80 tech firms, a source told Reuters last week. A second Vision Fund will be announced soon, SoftBank Group founder and CEO Masayoshi Son said at a news conference on Thursday, adding it would be similar in size to the first fund with SoftBank likely to be the only investor initially. The value of Vision Fund's investments in 69 companies had risen to $72.3 billion by end-March, from their $60.1 billion acquisition cost, driven by gains at companies like Uber and Indian hotels startup OYO, SoftBank said on Thursday. The fund's stake in Uber, which debuts on Friday, grew 418 billion yen in value, while its share in OYO added 154 billion yen in value. Overall, the fair value rose for 29 firms and fell for 12 over the period, SoftBank said, with the rest unchanged. The value of its stake in Guardant Health, a Vision Fund portfolio company listed last year, grew 203 billion yen. Over a decade on from the collapse of Lehman Brothers, the European economy has largely recovered. But many local economies throughout Europe are in a state of prolonged stagnation, rendering them an ideal hunting ground for populists, according to a report from ING senior economists Bert Colijn and Joanna Konings. Employment levels within the European Union are now 2% above where they were in 2008, but some regions have not seen this recovery, and have yet to show signs of bottoming out. Even within nations which have apparently recovered, there are pockets of regional weakness. While Germany has shown strong employment growth, regions such as Saxony-Anhalt and Thuringia have been in steady decline for the past decade. In Italy, the northern regions and the area surrounding Rome present a picture of recovery, but job creation in the south has been dire. The scars of the crisis are still impacting regional labor markets, with structural disparity driven in part by the region's digital infrastructure, education, innovation and vulnerability to globalization. The impact is evident in regions which maintain a higher-than-natural unemployment rate, and growth in these areas is influenced by a number of structural factors outside of the business cycle, the ING report found. In particular, digital infrastructure and research and development (R&D) investment offer important foundations for growth. Areas with the highest percentage of broadband access saw stronger employment growth over the decade and became regional centers of economic activity, with large parts of Bulgaria, Romania, Portugal and Italy lagging behind and remaining in gradual decline. Investment in digital infrastructure was directly proportionate to economic recovery. Similarly, investment in research and development (R&D) is strongly correlated to employment growth over the past decade, suggesting that regions which are "knowledge hubs" create jobs at a faster pace than those which are not. Cities with 1,000 euro ($1,118) or more R&D spend per capita form a roughly diagonal belt from Liverpool to Vienna, along with several Nordic regions. President Donald Trump takes part in a welcoming ceremony with China's President Xi Jinping on November 9, 2017 in Beijing, China. While some analysts found stocks with a defensive focus, others found companies that were nearly immune to the trade battle. The Dow is down more than 700 points in this week's sell-off while the S&P 500 has lost more than 3% after Trump said last weekend that tariffs would rise on China. As negotiations and posturing continue between the U.S. and China, some individual company analysts this week used the drama to tout stocks they cover which are positioned well if there is a trade war. One stock steering clear of any tariff trouble is Atkore International, according to analysts at RBC. Atkore manufactures electrical distribution products and reported solid earnings on Tuesday. "Management remains confident in its ability to manage tariff headwinds. The company has minimal direct tariff exposure, and for the products that it does import from overseas, its competitors source these products from overseas too," RBC said. Shares are up 11% over the last month. Power and utility stocks such as American Electric and Entergy are, "made for performing in rising trade tension," say UBS analysts. "Within utilities the most defensive names will be fully-regulated companies," analyst Daniel Ford wrote. Both stocks are down slightly in midday trading but up over 20% the last year. AquaVenture Holdings, which provides water purification system solutions also reported solid earnings this week. The company has, "essentially zero exposure to US-China tariffs or recent news headlines of escalating trade tensions," said RBC analyst Deane Dray. Here are other stocks analysts say to play in a U.S. China trade war: The Trump administration wants to shame pharmaceutical companies into lowering prescription drug prices, Health and Human Services Secretary Alex Azar told CNBC in an interview Thursday. Pharmaceutical companies will be required to disclose the list price of their prescription medicines in television commercials under a new Trump administration policy. The Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America, an industry group, argues list prices could be confusing and may discourage people from seeking medical care. "If the drug companies are embarrassed or if they're afraid that patients will be scared off by their drug prices, reduce your prices. It's that simple," Azar said in an interview with CNBC's "Squawk Box." For more on investing in health-care innovation, click here to join CNBC at our Healthy Returns Summit in New York City on May 21. Prescription drugs are typically more expensive in the U.S. than in other countries and account for a greater share of spending, for both individuals and the broader economy. Prescription medications accounted for roughly 12% of total health-care spending in the U.S. in 2016, eating up about 2.1% of the national GDP placing the U.S. fourth behind Hungary, Japan and Greece, according to the most recent data from the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development. The U.S., however, ranks No. 1 in the amount of money individuals spend on drugs each year an estimated $1,208 per person, according to the data. WASHINGTON President Donald Trump on Thursday said he wasn't pleased to hear reports that North Korea had launched two short-range missiles overnight. "They were smaller missiles, short-range missiles," Trump told reporters at the White House. "Nobody's happy about it, but we're taking a good look, and we'll see." "The relationship continues, but we'll see what happens," Trump added. "They want to negotiate, they're talking about negotiating, but I don't think they're ready to negotiate." Thursday's firing was the second in less than a week. Just days ago, North Korea launched several unidentified projectiles, the first confirmed rocket launches Pyongyang had conducted since 2017. Trump compared the stalled North Korean negotiations to his current trade talks with China, which are underway this week in Washington. "It's very much like China, we were getting very close to a deal, and then they started to renegotiate the deal, and we can't have that," Trump said. U.S. President Donald Trump said Wednesday that China "broke the deal" in the ongoing U.S.-China trade talks. Speaking at a rally in Florida, the president attributed his recent threat of increased tariffs to Beijing's negotiating position. "By the way, you see the tariffs we're doing? Because they broke the deal. They broke the deal," Trump said. "So they're flying in, the vice premier tomorrow is flying in good man but they broke the deal. They can't do that, so they'll be paying." Over the weekend, Trump surprised markets by threatening in a Twitter post that he would significantly raise American levies on Chinese goods with a first increase this coming Friday, and another "shortly." The president said trade talks with China had been moving "too slowly" as Beijing tried to re-negotiate. That came as a shock to many observers since recent reports had indicated the world's two largest economies could be set to sign an agreement as early as this week. Trump added that the United States "won't back down until China stops cheating our workers and stealing our jobs." "That's what's going to happen. Otherwise, we don't have to do business with them," he said. "We can make the product right here if we have to like we used to." Chris Rupkey, managing director and chief financial economist at global financial group MUFG, wrote in a note responding to Trump's Wednesday evening speech that markets may continue to be roiled by that sort of rhetoric: "We are not sure who the president is addressing tonight in a campaign rally, but he is sure scaring the daylights out of the financial markets." China, for its part, said earlier Wednesday that Beijing will retaliate if U.S. tariffs on $200 billion of Chinese goods are hiked to 25% from 10% as Trump had threatened. "The escalation of trade friction is not in the interests of the people of the two countries and the people of the world," the ministry said. "The Chinese side deeply regrets that if the US tariff measures are implemented, China will have to take necessary countermeasures." Then-President-elect Donald Trump along with his son Donald, Jr., arrive for a press conference at Trump Tower in New York, as Allen Weisselberg (C), chief financial officer of The Trump, looks on, January 11, 2017. President Donald Trump on Thursday said he was surprised to learn that his eldest son, Donald Trump Jr., has been subpoenaed to testify before the Senate Intelligence Committee about his contacts with Russians during the 2016 presidential campaign. "I was very surprised," Trump told reporters at the White House, noting that he had recently seen Republican Senate Intelligence Committee Chairman Richard Burr, R-N.C., say, "there was no collusion." "My son is a very good person, works very hard," Trump continued. "The last thing he needs is Washington, D.C. I think he'd rather not ever be involved." "He's now testified for 20 hours or something, a massive amount of time," Trump said. "The Mueller report came out, and that's the bible, and they said he did nothing wrong." That's not what the Mueller report said, however. Trump's eldest son declined to speak voluntarily to Mueller and his team. But the testimony Trump Jr. gave to various congressional committees about the 2016 meeting came under scrutiny after former Trump campaign aide Rick Gates gave a conflicting account under oath about what happened in the days leading up to the meeting. Trump Jr. testified that he spoke about the meeting in advance to just two people: his brother-in-law, Jared Kushner, and Paul Manafort, Trump's then-campaign chairman. But according to the published Mueller report, Gates testified that Donald Jr. told a much larger group of Trump family members and campaign staff at a regular morning meeting that "he had a lead on negative information about the Clinton Foundation." According to Gates, "Trump Jr. said the information was coming from a group in Kyrgyzstan and that he was introduced to the group by a friend." On Thursday, the president defended the premise of the now infamous meeting. "The only thing is, it's oppo research," Trump said. "It was a nothing meeting," he added, before going on to describe what he claimed were suspicious circumstances under which the meeting was arranged. "My son is a good person. My son testified for hours and hours. My son was totally exonerated by Mueller, who, frankly, does not like Donald Trump, me, this Donald Trump," the president continued. "And frankly, for my son, after being exonerated to now get a subpoena, to go again and speak again, after close to 20 hours of telling everybody that would listen about a nothing meeting? Yeah, I'm pretty surprised. I'm just really surprised," he said. Asked whether Trump Jr. should fight the subpoena, Trump avoided a yes or no answer. "Well, we'll see what happens," he said. "I'm just very surprised, I really am." This is a developing story. Please check back for updates. CHICAGO Uber's path to profitability will go through its food delivery service, Uber Eats, an analyst at Morningstar said Wednesday. Ali Mogharabi, equity analyst at Morningstar, said Uber Eats is growing at a rapid rate and has already taken a large chunk of market share from competitors like GrubHub. In a panel at the company's annual investment conference, he said Uber Eats now accounts for over 25% of all U.S. food-delivery and takeout orders; that's up from about 11% a year and a half ago. Meanwhile, GrubHub's share of delivery and takeout orders have gone down to less than 40% from more than 60% in the same time period. "There are actually a lot of Uber riders that, while they're getting a ride in an Uber, they're also ordering food from Uber Eats to arrive to their home by the time they get there," Mogharabi said. "You're basically looking at marginal cost, or cost per transaction completed, declining over time ... We think that's one of the reasons why margins are going to widen and why Uber will go toward profitability going forward." Uber is expected to join the public market later this week in one of the most anticipated initial public offerings in recent memory. The ride-sharing giant, CNBC learned through sources, set a price range of $44 to $50 per share for its IPO. This would value it between $80.53 billion and $91.51 billion. However, profitability is a big question mark facing Uber. In 2018, Uber lost $1.8 billion and $2.2 billion in 2017. "Uber Eats, we actually think is very critical," said Mogharabi, noting the company could become profitable by 2024 thanks in part to Uber Eats' growth. Subscribe to CNBC on YouTube. Renewed trade war fears triggered a bond market recession indicator on Thursday. The yield on the 10-year Treasury note fell below that of the 3-month bill Thursday morning, inverting part of the yield curve. The yield curve is the plot of interest rates of bonds having equal credit quality but differing maturity dates. An inversion has been a reliable recession indicator in the past, though there is a debate over which segment of the curve is most important. The Federal Reserve as well as President Donald Trump's chief economic advisor Larry Kudlow consider an inversion of the 3-month and 10-year curve as a key barometer. By Thursday afternoon, the yield curve between the 3-month bill and 10-year note had steepened and was no longer inverted. At 4:22 p.m. ET, the yield on the benchmark 10-year Treasury note, which moves inversely to price, was lower at around 2.451%, while the yield on the 3-month Treasury bill yield hovered at 2.432%. "I think that we're going into a recession. Look, I'm not going to sit here and pinpoint the day, the week or the month it's going to happen, but it's out there," said David Rosenberg, chief economist at Gluskin Sheff. "I think people tend to forget that the cause of the recession are the lags between the monetary policy tightening cycle and the eventual hit on GDP growth." "So of course we're talking about trade right now, but my premise all along is that there is no 'get out of jail free' card after you've had a monetary policy tightening cycle like we had," he added. Traders are closely following trade relations between the U.S. and China, as tensions continue to grow. On Wednesday, Trump said that China "broke the deal." Removing U.S. tariffs on Chinese goods in stages might be a good strategy to hold Beijing to its promises made during trade negotiations, but it will make it harder for businesses to operate, a former U.S. trade negotiator said Thursday. There's a distinction between what might be attractive as a trade negotiating strategy and what might be attractive from a business perspective, Stephen Olson, a research fellow at the pro-trade group Hinrich Foundation, told CNBC's "Street Signs" on Thursday. While removing the tariffs in stages may be effective for the U.S. to keep its leverage in the trade talks, such a move "makes it very, very difficult to do planning and it only extends the period of uncertainty" for businesses, he said. As part of the final trade deal, U.S. officials want to keep at least some of the tariffs in place as a way to ensure Beijing lives up to its commitments. China, for its part, wants the tariffs to be completely removed. Speaking at a rally in Florida Wednesday, U.S. President Donald Trump claimed that China "broke the deal" in the ongoing trade negotiations between Beijing and Washington. Over the weekend, the president threatened on Twitter to significantly raise American levies on Chinese goods with a first increase this coming Friday, and another "shortly." China has threatened to retaliate if the U.S. hikes tariffs on $200 billion worth of goods to 25% from 10%. U.S. President Donald Trump's negotiators are set to meet Chinese trade officials this week in an attempt to hash out a trade deal. The president on Wednesday announced that Chinese Vice Premier Liu He will be leading a team of officials to Washington. Trump implied that Beijing's delegation will be aiming to ink an agreement because it's suffering under the weight of U.S. levies, tweeting that the White House is "very happy with over $100 Billion a year in Tariffs filling U.S. coffers," which is "great for U.S., not good for China." Donald J. Trump tweet: "....Guess what, that's not going to happen! China has just informed us that they (Vice-Premier) are now coming to the U.S. to make a deal. We'll see, but I am very happy with over $100 Billion a year in Tariffs filling U.S. coffers...great for U.S., not good for China!" However, according to former Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd, any assumption in Washington that Beijing is "economically desperate" for a deal is not "well placed." "The Chinese have applied a whole bunch of stimulus measures, growth has been restored, including some tax advantages for the private sector. China is approaching these negotiations as of May 2019 in a considerably stronger economic position" than it had six months ago, said Rudd, who is now the president of the New York-based Asia Society Policy Institute. Rudd told CNBC's "Squawk Box Asia" that Chinese media is emphasizing "time and time again" that the Asian giant's economy is "resilient." "There's some preparation in social media for the possibility of the Chinese economy continuing even in the absence of a trade deal. So what I sense here is a movement of low-level defiance," Rudd said. The ongoing U.S.-China trade talks appeared to turn sour when Trump on Sunday threatened to hike U.S. sanctions on some Chinese goods to 25% from 10% if an agreement is not reached by Friday. Another round of fresh levies would "shortly" follow, he added. At a Florida rally on Wednesday, Trump said his recent threat to increase tariffs comes because Beijing "broke the deal" in trade talks with Washington. Rudd, for his part, said the "drama of the last several days" seems to be along the lines of an "American frustration" that Beijing's negotiating text "does not include a reference to China incorporating the proposed changes in the bilateral agreement into Chinese law." [The stream is slated to start at 3:45 p.m. ET. Please refresh the page if you do not see a player above at that time.] President Donald Trump was set to host the World Series-winning Boston Red Sox at the White House on Thursday, even with nearly a dozen players and the team's manager refusing to show up at least partly in protest of the administration's response to a disastrous hurricane in Puerto Rico. The Associated Press reported that all of the players boycotting the White House event are people of color. In contrast, every white player is expected to attend the ceremony. J.D. Martinez, who is of Cuban descent, is also set to attend, according to the AP. A spokesperson for the Red Sox did not immediately respond to CNBC's request to confirm the details of the reported boycott. -- The Associated Press contributed to this report Subscribe to CNBC on YouTube. Dow stock Walt Disney (DIS) was higher this morning after reporting fiscal second-quarter earnings and revenue that beat estimates. Disney got a boost from its recently concluded $71 billion purchase of assets from 21st Century Fox. (CNBC) Stamps.com (STMP) shares were losing about 50% after the online postage seller lowered its full-year guidance on cancellations and renegotiations of various contracts between the U.S. Postal Service and certain re-sellers. (CNBC) * Chevron walks away from Anadarko Petroleum deal, will collect $1 billion breakup fee (CNBC) The Dow opened lower this morning, as both President Donald Trump and China ramp up the rhetoric in their trade dispute, ahead of resumed talks in Washington today. The Dow eked out a small gain Wednesday, but it's still off more than 2% this week. (CNBC) * Cramer: Markets could roar after we get past Friday's China tariff and Uber IPO gauntlet (CNBC) Trump fueled market concerns late Wednesday, saying at a rally in Florida that China "broke the deal." Trade negotiations get underway today, facing a 12:01 a.m. ET Friday deadline for the U.S. to increase China import tariffs from 10% to 25%. (CNBC) * China says it's prepared to respond to all kinds of outcomes on US trade talks (CNBC) North Korea fired unidentified projectiles today, according to the South Korean military. It's the third such launch by Pyongyang since talks collapsed between President Trump and North Korea leader Kim Jong Un in February. (Reuters) * Iran's uranium enrichment threat sets up a 'severe escalation path' (CNBC) * 'We reject any ultimatums': Europe responds firmly to Iran's nuclear deal threat (CNBC) The GOP-led Senate Intelligence Committee has subpoenaed the president's eldest son, Donald Trump Jr., to answer questions about his claim to have just limited knowledge of an ultimately aborted plan to build a Trump Tower in Moscow. (NBC News) Uber is aiming to price its IPO at the midpoint of its target range or below, a source told CNBC. Uber set a price range of $44 to $50 per share for its initial public offering in an updated filing last month. Uber is set to begin trading on Friday. (CNBC) Edgewell Personal Care (EPC), owner of Schick and Wilkinson razors, announced today plans to buy U.S.-based shaving startup Harry's for $1.37 billion, in a cash-and-stock deal. Three years ago, Unilever (UL) purchased Dollar Shave Club for $1 billion. (Reuters) Novartis (NVS) is buying the dry eye drug of Japan's Takeda Pharmaceutical for $3.4 billion, plus potential milestone payments of up to $1.9 billion. Takeda is selling $10 billion in assets to cut debt taken on in its acquisition of Britain's Shire earlier this year. (Reuters) Use of prescription opioids such as OxyContin or Vicodin fell at a record rate last year as the U.S. government continues to crackdown on the pharmacists and drugmakers that dispense the sometimes lethal painkillers, according to a new report. (CNBC) * Denver becomes the first US city to decriminalize 'magic mushrooms' (AP) Pope Francis issued a groundbreaking law today, requiring all Catholic priests and nuns around the world to report clergy sexual abuse and cover-up by their superiors to church authorities, in an unprecedented new effort to hold the Catholic hierarchy accountable. (AP) A coalition of 19 consumer and privacy groups plans to file a complaint, alleging that Amazon's Echo Dot Kids Edition is illegally collecting voice recordings and other identifying information on users under 13 and that the system's parental controls are flawed. (Washington Post) Chris Hughes, co-founder of Facebook (FB), is calling for the government to break up the tech giant in an op-ed published in The New York Times this morning. "The Facebook that exists today is not the Facebook that we founded in 2004," wrote Hughes. Americans are not ready to buy electric vehicles and do not think their neighbors are either, according to a new study by AAA. That said, as many as 40 million Americans said they would at least consider a battery-electric vehicle for their next vehicle. (CNBC) 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 You must be logged in to participate in the Show Me the Errors contest. Why is privacy a luxury? Possibly because surveillance capitalist firms have subsidized product prices by collecting and trading in the personal data of the people that use their products, enabling them to sell hardware cheap. The consequences of convenience The crux of Google CEO Sundar Pichais argument against firms such as (obviously including but never named) Apple is that his company offers convenience in exchange for personal secrets, makes its services available for free, and has a profound commitment to protecting user privacy. Except these arguments gloss over several inconveniences: Any Google hardware or product must at some level be subsidised by the profits made on the personal data users share with the company. By subsidizing products in this way, an unequal playing field is created because products that do not draw subsidy from the erosion of user privacy will inevitably cost more, creating an illusion of them being luxuries. Google has an extensive track record of data protection fails data concerning tens of millions of users was exposed due to that Google Plus flaw, for example. In fact, there are so many privacy concerns that theres an extensive Wikipedia page about them. Who else recalls Googles Screenwise Meter iOS app, which quietly collected user data in defiance of Apples developer guidelines? That egregious abuse of trust was exposed in 2019. Google said sorry, but only after it was caught. Democracy dies in dark places You can read Pichais piece here, but for all the statements around democracy and meaningful choice, the arguments hes making still expose weakness in his attempt to rebrand the notion of privacy. Privacy should not mean entities such as Google promise not to sell your data without your consent. It should mean they dont collect your personal data in the first place. Not only that, but privacy also means that when a company does gather your data, it should work strenuously to ensure it cannot be tracked to you. Just tell the more than 50 million Google + users about that. History shows that providing personalized services while knowing very little about the person demanding those services is much harder, but not impossible. In Apples case, all that CoreML analysis taking place using personal data held on a persons device but not shared with any other entity illustrates this. You get things you need, but you arent required to provide unregulated third parties with access to that information. Apples whole system is based on providing convenience but not at the cost of your privacy. Funnily enough, Google now claims to be developing its own on-device AI. Well see how that turns out. Luxury privacy Google says it will introduce a range of privacy-protecting features later this year when it ships Android Q. Privacy cannot be a luxury good offered only to people who can afford to buy premium products and services, the CEO wrote. Privacy must be equally available to everyone in the world. Except this isnt quite how it works. Those new Android Q privacy protections wont be made available to billions of Android users. Some may get a software upgrade, but most will need to spend money on new hardware capable of running the OS. In the real world, tens of millions of users will be as unable to afford a new Android Q device as they are a new iPhone. No one really wants to buy a new smartphone every year the financial and environmental costs of doing so soon add up. Genuine convenience Contrast this with Apples approach to privacy. Not only has Apple worked to protect privacy for years, but its iOS updates are available to devices up to around 5 years old. On the day they ship. Thats not luxury. Thats expectation. No one should expect less. Realistically, Googles attempt to define privacy as a luxury item actually serves to illustrate something else that its business model demands you sacrifice privacy in exchange for cheaper good and services. Some people like that convenience, but I dont. I dont trust it. Lots of people dont which is why theres such a strong market in older model iPhones, all of which support iOS 12 and Apples latest privacy protections inside devices that cost about the same as those non-luxury Androids that wont ever run Android Q or any of the new privacy protections Googles promising a decade since it shipped its first phone OS. Im not convinced at all. Please follow me on Twitter, or join me in the AppleHolics bar & grill and Apple Discussions groups on MeWe. 10 promising startups to be featured in acceleration programme by NUS Enterprise and Singtel Innov8 Innovation Cybersecurity Ecosystem at BLOCK71 (ICE71) has unveiled ten promising cybersecurity startups at its second ICE71 Accelerate Demo Day, held on Wednesday, May 8, in Singapore. Coming from Singapore, India, Turkey, Vietnam, the UK, and the US, these early-stage startups have been chosen to participate the ICE71 Accelerate programme. The programme culminated in Demo Day, where they pitched to an audience of over 150 investors and cybersecurity leaders, seeking investment and business development opportunities. Innovation Cybersecurity Ecosystem at BLOCK71 (ICE71) Accelerate Demo Day on Wednesday, May 8. Photo courtesy: ICE71 CE71 is a partnership between Singtel Innov8, the corporate venture capital arm of the Singtel Group, and NUS Enterprise, the entrepreneurial arm of the National University of Singapore (NUS). Edgar Hardless, Chief Executive Officer, Singtel Innov8. Photo courtesy: ICE71 "Increasingly, enterprises and governments need to work more closely with start-ups to address the frequency, scale, and sophistication of cyber threats globally," said Edgar Hardless, CEO of Singtel Innov8. Bringing together promising start-ups and connecting them with leading investors, enterprises and government agencies will help to strengthen Singapores cybersecurity ecosystem, he added. "This also creates a conducive environment for the roll-out of new and innovative technologies which can power Singapores Smart Nation goals. The latest batch of cybersecurity start-ups builds on the success already achieved by the start-ups from ICE71 Accelerate's first cohort unveiled in October 2018. Professor Freddy Boey, Deputy President (Innovation and Enterprise) of NUS. Photo courtesy: ICE71 Professor Freddy Boey, Deputy President (Innovation and Enterprise) of NUS, said, Cybersecurity is among the key pillars supporting Singapores Smart Nation ambitions. It is therefore crucial for our people, businesses and enterprises to be well protected in today's digital environment. The key to supporting the nations ambitions lies in driving cybersecurity innovation and encouraging more enterprising cybersecurity entrepreneurs and start-ups to make Singapore their home. Supported by the Cyber Security Agency of Singapore (CSA), the Info-communications Media Development Authority (IMDA) and corporate partners such as Cisco, ICE71 aims to strengthen Singapores growing cybersecurity ecosystem by attracting and developing competencies and new technologies in the region. After Demo Day, ICE71 will continue to guide and support these start-ups through further fundraising, product development and commercial expansion. It will also provide access to community events with ecosystem partners, thought leadership programmes, engagements with enterprises and government entities, and opportunities to present at regional cybersecurity conferences. Rory Stewart enjoys walking with a calm and purposeful air into danger. While other ministers keep their heads down, he has been out and about on the airwaves, defending Theresa Mays Brexit deal as one to which all moderate, sensible people should assent. And while other contenders for the Conservative leadership keep up the threadbare pretence they are not competing for it, he told Katy Balls of The Spectator, and has repeated since, that he would like to be Prime Minister, and reckons he has what it takes. His promotion a week ago to the Cabinet as International Development Secretary suddenly makes him look a more plausible candidate. He has fewer enemies than his longer established rivals, which in Tory leadership contests can be a decisive factor, as Michael Heseltine will tell you. But few people at this level are entirely without enemies, and his career so far as a departmental minister, which began four years ago, will now come under scrutiny, in a way that was not possible when this exotic figure, who in his life before politics had a number of unusual adventures, was first profiled for ConHome in 2015. Andrew Mitchell, who served as DFID Secretary under David Cameron, told ConHome: I think he will be a very good DFID Secretary. He already has significant development experience outside the political system as well as within it, and will bring some new and updated ideas to the way Britain makes its contribution to solving some of the big international problems that beset us. But others who observed Stewart when he was Minister of State at DFID from 2016-18 report that some of the senior officials there literally hated him. One former colleague predicted that his appointment as DFID Secretary will be a disaster and could well lead to the death of thousands of the worlds poorest people. Stewart is accused of not listening to advice, saying things that werent realistic, going with ideas hes just made up on the back of a napkin, and horrifying the civil servants who were sitting beside him as he spoke. This capacity for challenging the departmental orthodoxy, and refusing to accept what his officials say, could be a great strength or a mortal weakness. He is committed to thinking things out for himself, and tenacious in defence of what he thinks are the right ideas. Almost everyone agrees that Stewart is tremendously articulate and engaging, and has very good big ideas. Some add that he is not at home in large organisations, though they often remark in the same breath that he has excellent manners. In The Places in Between, his acclaimed account of the walk he made across Afghanistan in 2002, Stewart is scathing about the post-conflict experts who set out to solve that countrys problems without any knowledge of the people they purport to be rescuing. In an impassioned outburst on pages 293-4, consigned to a footnote because it is polemical rather than descriptive, he writes: Critics have accused this new breed of administrators of neo-colonialism. But in fact their approach is not that of a 19th-century colonial officer. Colonial administrations may have been racist and exploitative but they did at least work seriously at the business of understanding the people they were governing. They recruited people prepared to spend their entire careers in dangerous provinces of a single nation Post-conflict experts have got the prestige without the effort or stigma of imperialism. Their implicit denial of the difference between cultures is the new mass brand of international intervention. Their policy fails but no one notices. There are no credible monitoring bodies and there is no one to take formal responsibility. Individual officers are never in any one place and rarely in any one organisation long enough to be adequately assessed. The colonial enterprise could be judged by the security or revenue it delivered, but neo-colonialists have no such performance criteria. In fact their very uselessness benefits them. By avoiding any serious action or judgment they, unlike their colonial predecessors, are able to escape accusations of racism, exploitation and oppression. Many readers will cheer these sentiments, and will reckon they help to explain why international intervention so often fails even in its own terms. But oddly enough, Stewart is himself open to the charge of not staying put long enough to be adequately assessed. From January 2018 to May 2019 he served as Minister of State for Prisons. In August 2018 a BBC interviewer asked him, in an incredulous tone, if he would resign, if in a years time he had failed to reduce the level of drugs and violence in ten prisons which had just been targetted by the Government, with a million pounds to be spent in each of them on new measures. Stewart replied, after a fleeting pause: Yep, I will quitI will resign if I dont succeed. No one can just now know whether in August 2019 he would have had to resign as Prisons Minister, for he no longer occupies that post, and can no longer urge the vigorous implementation of the measures he set in train. A prison reformer told ConHome it is impossible to know what will happen in the ten prisons, but remarked that turning round a prison usually takes longer than a year. Mark Fairhurst, Chairman of the Prison Officers Association, said: Rory Stewart has been given a get out of jail free card. The pledges [Stewart] made and the way he engaged with us and listened to us were positive, but the question is what happens now? This is the problem. You forge a good working relationship with these ministers, and you start to make progress, because certainly the things hes implemented are things that weve been calling for years. But then all of a sudden, just as youre moving forward, they get replaced or promoted. Stewart himself said in the Commons on 23rd April that the figures are looking reasonably positive, and indicated that he hoped to survive in his post after August. He has not, incidentally, been replaced yet. Whoever takes the job will be asked whether he or she will promise to resign. Jonathan Aitken, who knows the prison system from the inside and has served for the last year as chaplain at Pentonville Prison, reckons that as a prison minister, Stewart has been a considerable success, but part of that is just sheer luck, because the spending needed to increase the number of prison officers from dangerously low levels had already been approved, and staffing levels have dramatically improved over the last year, though there has not yet been a corresponding drop in violence. Aitken said that at Leeds, one of the ten prisons targetted by Stewart, the extra million pounds is having a good effect, for example by putting in better windows to replace those through which drugs were being smuggled, and installing an X-ray body scanner to search for drugs. In Aitkens view, As a dark horse bet [in the leadership race] Stewart is quite interesting. Hes cut from a different cloth. Hes got a most unusual mind. Theyre all going to be looking for someone who can unite the party a bit. Although his pledge to resign will not now be put to the test, it did attract a lot of attention to what he was trying to do. His approach is different to that of the standard career politician who seeks to avoid anything which might be regarded as new or alarming. More conventional spirits doubt it can be good politics for Stewart to advertise his leadership aspirations so openly. But a considerable number of people at Westminster said yesterday that although this was naive, it was also charming. There is something refreshing about a man who ignores the usual hypocrisies. Not since Sir Alec Douglas-Home in 1963 has an expert on foreign affairs, who knows next to nothing about economics, become Conservative leader. The precedent is not encouraging for Stewart, who seems more cut out to become Foreign Secretary than Prime Minister. Stewart admits that having voted Remain in the EU Referendum is a drawback for him, and this aspect of him renders him intolerable to those who think the next leader simply must be a Leaver. He offers himself as a centrist who would implement Brexit while striving to maintain close economic ties with the EU, and to retain the support of the four million Remain voters who also voted Conservative: If the Conservative Party make the mistake of trying to out-do Nigel Farage, which I am sure we wont, but it is something that a few of my colleagues are talking about, then we would lose those four million Remain votes. Wed lose young people, wed lose Scotland, wed lose London and wed lose a lot of the most energetic parts of this country. Weve got to be a broad party Could Stewart speak, for example, to Leave voters in the Midlands? The only answer to that question at the moment is that nobody knows for sure, but it seems a bit unlikely. Stewart loves traditional institutions such as the monarchy (he acted as tutor to Princes William and Harry) and the armed forces, but also displays a boldness and an independence of mind which were perhaps more often found in the Victorian period than they are now. When Margaret Thatcher fell, the relatively obscure John Major swept to victory as the stop Heseltine candidate. When Theresa May falls, it is not yet clear (at least to the present writer) who will be the Stop Boris Johnson candidate. Timing can be almost everything in such contests, and Stewart has reached the Cabinet just as the race is starting. This is the full text of a speech delivered by David Gauke, the Secretary of State for Justice. Thank you, Richard for hosting us and Will, for that introduction. And may I thank Onward for the opportunity to make this speech. And I think I should begin by stating what this speech is not. It is not, predominantly, a speech about Brexit although it certainly touches upon it. It is not a leadership campaign speech, for two very good reasons. First, I do not believe that we should change the leadership of the Conservative Party until we have addressed the manner of our departure from the European Union. Second, when it comes to any future leadership election, my position is to resist the clamour to stand. I remain confident that my resistance will be greater than the clamour. But it is a speech about the future of the Conservative Party. And, indeed, the future of British politics as a whole. It is a speech that sets out the choices of direction for my party, a choice that will define the Conservative Party and British politics for a generation. I set out how the rise of populism, the fragmenting of traditional party loyalties and the impact of Brexit means that there is a case for the Conservative Party to become a more populist, anti-establishment, culturally conservative party. But I argue that such a choice would limit our electoral appeal and leave the UK badly placed to take advantage of the opportunities of the 21st century. In other words, this is a speech that argues for a Conservative Party to be a broad church and an advocate for mainstream values. Ladies and gentlemen, we live in an era of extraordinary political turbulence. Around the rest of the world, we have seen new, populist parties quickly finding themselves in government. In the US, we have seen someone who has never held public office elected as President. One of our two great political parties is led by Jeremy Corbyn, someone who spent his first 32 years in Parliament on or beyond the fringes of British politics. And a new political party the Brexit Party, led by someone who has stood unsuccessfully for Parliament seven times is currently riding high in the opinion polls. Policies and politicians that, not that long ago, could be dismissed as extreme, divisive or impractical are succeeding in winning large numbers of votes. Mainstream politicians (as that term has generally been understood for decades) are on the defensive. We live in a period when the forces of populism are strong. Anti-establishment messages resonate. Whether of the left or of the right, whether Jeremy Corbyn or Nigel Farage, the politician that argues that much of the public has been let down by the elite will strike a chord. That elite might be defined in cultural terms the liberal elite, seen as putting the interests of migrants or international institutions ahead of the indigenous population. Or the elite might be defined in economic terms the rich and powerful, the beneficiaries of neo-liberalism, who put their interests ahead of the interests of wider society. Either way, the populist politician of left or right will argue that his policies will diminish the power of the elite, redistributing it to their supporters. There is no doubt that this populist mood contributed to Leaves victory in 2016. That is not to say that all Leavers were populists or that all Leave arguments were populist arguments. They werent. But there is no doubt that the 2016 Leave campaign tapped into a sense of grievance that the elites were not listening to those who felt disenfranchised and that the referendum enabled those voters to take back control. The emergence of populism raises two questions, in particular, which I will attempt to answer. Why is this happening now? How should mainstream politicians respond to it? Specifically, how should British Conservatives respond to it? So, the first question: why now? Or perhaps it is worth asking, why not before? There have always been plenty of people who think their interests are not best served by those in positions of power, angry about foreign competition or immigration, sympathetic to a strong man willing to break the rules. And, on many measures we were less liberal attitudes to capital punishment, homosexuality and racism, for example than we are today. Yet, in the past, the voices of populism were marginalised. People voted for mainstream parties and the leadership of mainstream parties robustly resisted populism. There were a limited number of media outlets some of which certainly flirted with populism but were never fully captured by it. The emergence of social media has enabled those with non-mainstream views to find the like-minded. The once marginalised find reassurance in digital echo chambers. The views of extremists can be disseminated to the susceptible as online communities where they wont face challenge. It should concern us all that Tommy Robinson had nearly twice as many Facebook followers as the Prime Minister. This has played out in a period of moderate increases in living standards. The financial crash and the ensuing Great Recession resulted in a collapse in trust for those in authority and a significant hit to real incomes. Our public finances were predicated on a level of growth that proved to be illusory. The adjustment what some describe as the years of austerity was made no less painful by the fact that it was both necessary and inevitable. Add to that, we are living through a period of substantial structural change. The emergence of China as a major manufacturing power has, as a whole, been beneficial to Western countries as it has helped lower the cost of living. But those dispersed benefits dont take away from the fact that there have been concentrated costs for those who worked in now uncompetitive industries. A similar point can be made about new technology. Even without foreign competition, the number of manufacturing jobs would be falling as robots allow us to do more. This trend will only continue, except it wont just be manufacturing jobs. That is not to say that employment will fall I am optimistic that technology will mean different, more productive and interesting jobs, not fewer jobs. But it does mean disruption and insecurity. There are many who argue that rising inequality is a driver for populism. I am a little cautious about this, at least in the context of the UK, simply for the reason that inequality (contrary to what nearly everyone thinks they know) is not, in fact, rising. As the IFS has pointed out, income inequality has remained pretty consistent since the 1990s and, since the Great Recession of the late 2000s, earnings growth has generally been greatest for lower earners. Nonetheless, economic insecurity is clearly a contributing factor. But I would place greater weight on cultural insecurity the fear that their culture is under threat and being marginalised. Parts of society not only feel economically disadvantaged but culturally disadvantaged. In recent decades, we have seen dramatic changes in the nature of our society changes which, I would argue, are overwhelmingly positive. Conservatives should welcome changes that have made society more open and diverse and have meant that life has become much better for women, gay people and ethnic minorities. But elements of society look back to a period where their position in society was more secure and stable, their culture dominant and with an expectation that that culture would remain dominant throughout the life times of their children and grandchildren. These concerns are too often dismissed and sneered at. For example, it is often said that older Leave supporters voted with no concern for the long term consequences for their grandchildren. On the contrary, what strikes me about many older Leave voters was that they were concerned that the country future generations will grow up in will be different and, in their eyes, worse than the one they grew up in. I dont agree with that pessimistic outlook, but it is a sincere and well-motivated point of view. This sense of a changed cultural orthodoxy is often felt strongest in those communities that have traditionally voted for centre left parties, parties that have, in recent decades, been perceived as being more focused on furthering the interests of disadvantaged minority groups rather than on the centre lefts previous principal objective furthering the economic interests of the working class. The desire to protect the interests of vulnerable groups is entirely laudable but the change in priorities has been noticed by some of the centre lefts traditional supporters. Whether it is the Democrat-voting ex-steelworker in the Rust Belt, or the Labour-voting ex-miner in the East Midlands, they dont feel that they are part of a privileged majority. At best, they feel invisible to the concerns of their traditional parties. At worst, they consider their traditional parties to be hostile to them. This has led to a reaction. The perception is that the once dominant culture is under attack and, unless defended, will no longer be around for future generations. The disenchantment of the traditional working class with the left clearly creates an opportunity for the right, as we have seen in the US. And it is argued by some that the Conservative Party needs to reinvent itself as a party that focuses on that part of the electorate that the Conservative Party must become more of an insurgent, anti-establishment, anti-elite movement; determined to protect our nations cultural identity from cultural change and the challenges of globalisation. It is an approach that has worked electorally elsewhere and, it is argued, the evidence suggests that it can work here. It is an argument that deserves to be taken seriously. It is true that there is an opportunity to appeal to voters who have not traditionally voted Conservative but feel ignored by the centre-left and repulsed by the resurgent hard left. And, of course, we should seek to attract non-traditional voters particularly as our economic policies should be designed to benefit all parts of society. It is also the case that the concerns of those who feel invisible must be recognised by mainstream parties. For example, a balanced approach to immigration that recognises the benefits it has provided us but also accepts that uncontrolled immigration is unsustainable is fair, reasonable and nothing of which to be ashamed. If mainstream parties do not address such concerns, it will leave the pitch clear for others. But the case I want to make is that it essential for the sake of the country that the Conservative Party resists the temptation to become a populist party. Populism would make us a poorer and a more divided nation. Ultimately, it wont satisfy the voters who feel most disillusioned with the current political system. And it will result in the loss from the Conservative coalition of support of younger voters, more liberal-minded voters and pro-business voters. If the Conservative Party becomes a populist party, it will drive away voters in metropolitan and suburban areas that will make the task of winning a Parliamentary majority all but impossible. London, the Home Counties and the Oxford-to-Cambridge corridor have rapidly growing populations and have, for the most part, been fruitful areas for returning Conservative MPs. But we are already on the retreat in London. In the relatively tight general election of 1992, we achieved 45% of the vote in London and 48 seats. In the tight general election of 2017, we achieved just 33% of the vote and 21 seats. As last weeks local elections demonstrated, we should not take our support for granted in the wider South East, especially if we are seen to be hostile to the values of liberal, university-educated, centrist voters. However, this is not just about electoral calculation. The biggest problem with populist policies is that too often, theyre just plain wrong. Let me begin with the economics. The vast majority of Conservatives look back with pride at how Mrs Thatchers governments turned round the British economy from being the sick man of Europe to being a dynamic, enterprising powerhouse. She did so not by embracing populism but by confronting it. Whereas populism tends to seek to preserve existing jobs and industries, insulating an economy from foreign competition, the 1980s were a period when the government did not seek to prevent necessary structural changes. She took steps to make our economy more open through both unilateral and multilateral measures, foreign investment was encouraged, structural change embraced. And whereas populism tends to be fiscally irresponsible it is the politics of saying yes and rarely of saying no the Thatcher governments fiscal approach was thoroughly conservative, ensuring that we sought to live within our means, tightly controlling public spending and even allowing the tax burden to rise when necessary to get the public finances under control. A responsible government cannot agree to every spending proposal put in front of it. Nor can it afford to pursue every proposal for unfunded tax cuts. I am the first to argue the case for a competitive, pro-business tax system I am very proud to be associated with our corporation tax reforms but the idea that cutting taxes inevitably pays for itself is simply the right-wing equivalent of the magic money tree. And whereas Mrs Thatchers Government was essentially pro-business, populism, in the end, becomes an anti-business movement. If populism involves standing up to powerful elites, populism of the right as well as the left will too often portray business particularly disrupters and innovators as creators of misery not creators of wealth. That is not to say that Conservatives should never criticise business there are legitimate arguments to make about the wider responsibilities of business but if the Conservatives find themselves advocating policies widely considered to be economically damaging by business, we should not be surprised if this has a damaging impact on business investment and our long-term prosperity, as well as diminishing our electoral appeal. For the Conservative Party to become a truly populist party would mean abandoning our beliefs in an open, dynamic, pro-business economy and in fiscal responsibility. Or to put it another way, it would involve shredding our economic credibility. And there could not be a worse time to do so. When the Labour Party has adopted an economic agenda that, when implemented elsewhere, has invariably had catastrophic results, diminishing our own credibility and deserting the economic battlefield leaves our country at risk and throws away a huge electoral opportunity. So, does this lead us to maintaining a more orthodox approach to economics, but emphasising an agenda of cultural conservatism, wholeheartedly addressing the concerns of those who feel left behind and invisible? It would be an agenda based on tough immigration rules and taking on political correctness. It would be assertive and fearless in defence of traditional values and promise a return to a simpler, more innocent age. But even if we avoid the temptations of economic populism, cultural populism takes us down a dangerous path. So, lets turn to the non-economic arguments. First, populism leads to a more divided society. Populism is one of the reasons why our political debate becomes coarsened, language more extreme, civility dismissed as weakness. And a political strategy that seeks to exploit a sense of cultural insecurity would exacerbate divisions within society and send a clear message to minority populations and liberal voters that the Conservative Party was not for them. It would leave us as a Party narrower and as a society angrier. We need to de-escalate the culture wars, not inflame them. If we base our appeal on the distance we create from the liberal elite by emphasising cultural matters, what is to stop someone else coming along who might be less restrained, less subtle, more forthright in taking on liberal opinion? If we validate a narrative that our countrys problems are caused by an out-of-touch liberal establishment, why wont the most anti-establishment position become ascendant? What is to stop relatively mainstream Conservatives from being, if youll pardon the pun, trumped? Aping populism wont defeat populism. It is a dangerous trajectory. Second, populism undermines stability. Our political stability has been a great asset to this country but populism inevitably involves an attack on those institutions that have been essential to delivering that. In recent years, we have already seen too much of this. Our independent judiciary has been described as enemies of the people and our non-partisan civil service has been roundly abused. And, third, populism would undermine the United Kingdom. In the context of the United Kingdom, right-wing populism means English nationalism. Such English nationalism repels voters in other parts of the UK, is neglectful of the importance of the Union and, consequently, encourages separatist movements. So, a properly populist approach would be economically wrong-headed, increase division in society, undermine our institutions and the stability that they bring and destabilise the integrity of the United Kingdom. In short, it is not where a responsible political party should be. If our response is not to become a populist party, how do we respond? How does a mainstream centre-right party survive and prosper in an era of populism? How, ultimately, do we defeat populism? This is not a speech designed to set out a policy agenda. Nor is this an issue that is fundamentally about policy but about tone, attitude and ambition. So here are seven points to bear in mind. First, if we want to be a broad church, we should try to de-escalate the culture wars. That means recognising that, within the Conservative movement, there will be social conservatives and there will be social liberals. There always have been and, by and large, we have managed to rub along alright together. Historically, we have always found more to unite us than divide us. Second, our politics needs to be more civil. Whether talking about fellow Conservatives or indeed decent people in politics as a whole, we should all try harder to speak in a more respectful way, not impugning motives without good reason, recognising that someone holding a different view doesnt make them a bad person. Liberal democracy requires a level of tolerance and civility in our political debate which is increasingly absent. A coarsened political environment is an environment in which the populist politician can flourish. Third, we wont defeat populist ideas by sneering. People concerned about rapid changes in our culture and our economy are not deplorables, to use Hillary Clintons phrase. We might disagree with them, but they should be treated with more respect than has often been the case. Fourth, the arguments for mainstream politics need to be presented as benefiting society as a whole, not about furthering the interests of one group over another. We should believe in One Nation Conservatism. Too often, populists argue that if a policy is good for one group it must be bad for another that we are in a zero sum game. A policy which encourages wealth creation is described as a handout to the rich at the expense of the poor. Or a policy which reduces racial discrimination favours ethnic minorities over the majority population. But life is not a zero sum game. If people are encouraged to invest, to be entrepreneurial, to create wealth, the individual and society as a whole can benefit. And if barriers to advancement are removed, if opportunities are widened, the individual and society as a whole can benefit. Fifth, we need to be open and straight-forward that many decisions are complex, that life involves trade-offs and that an easy, simple answer is often the wrong one. In response to the glib, easy answer, we shouldnt be frightened to say that, well, its a little bit more complicated than that. Those of us who are politicians should treat the public as adults and be prepared to set out that we may often face a range of imperfect choices, that most choices have costs as well as benefits. Over-simplifying issues a tendency of the populist politician only increases scepticism in our politics when claims turn out to be untrue. If we want to rebuild trust in our politics, we should strive harder to communicate the factors that influence any decision or policy. Sixth, the Conservative Party has to win the economic debate. The economy should be at the heart of the centre rights case to the electorate. A focus upon creating prosperity is an approach that more often unites rather than divides the Conservative Party and has a resonance with voters who know that their living standards would be put at risk by our opponents. Populism of left and right poses enormous risks to this countrys prosperity. And, ultimately, those who would lose out from these economic failures would be those who already feel left behind. We need to be confident in making the case for the market economy, for allowing business to create wealth, for being outward looking, for embracing technology. Our economic record in government since 2010 is something of which we should be proud the deficit slashed, employment at record levels given the mess we inherited. And seventh, our message has to be aspirational and optimistic. We must be advocates for policies that benefit all parts of society, so that those who have voted Labour when it was anchored in mainstream values look again at us and see us as a party determined to protect and advance their interests. We should be driven by a desire to expand opportunity, to give more people a chance to have a good education, a good job, to own their own home and have access to world class public services. In the course of this speech, I have merely touched on the issue of the era Brexit. And I dont intend to dwell on it. But I believe the approach I have set out should apply to how we address Brexit. We should put the economy at the heart of how we deliver Brexit ensuring that we maintain strong trading relationships with our biggest trading market. We should discourage a culture war over Brexit. We need to cool the temperature of the debate recognising that the divisions in society need to heal. We should make the case that honourable and decent people can hold strongly different views. And such views do not make them racists, on the one hand, or traitors, on the other. As a political party, we Conservatives also need to make it clear that we want to win the support of those that voted for either side in 2016. Indeed, if we focused on gaining the support of just one side of the debate, there is a risk that this support would fall away when Brexit becomes a less significant issue. It will happen, one day. And we need to set out more clearly and openly the trade-offs and choices that lie ahead of us as we establish a new relationship with the 27 member states of the European Union. Reluctance by some participants in this debate to accept that some choices have costs has meant that the debate on our future relationship has been, too often, characterised by wishful thinking. This wishful thinking that, for example, we could have the exact same benefits as membership of the EU but with none of the obligations has not survived the collision with reality. But it has left some voters bemused and angry that the simple Brexit they were promised by some has not been delivered. But over-promising, over-simplifying and failing to deliver will only encourage further disenchantment. So let us approach Brexit as we should approach all issues. Seeking to build broad support, respectful of those arguing in good faith, open and honest about the consequences of the choices ahead of us, mindful of the economic impact particularly on those most vulnerable in society and taking a practical approach in order to find a constructive way forward. Brexit is a test for the country. But it is a test for the Conservative Party. What sort of party should we be? Do we succumb to populist arguments that may win easy applause but, in the end, will leave the public disappointed? Do we have the courage and honesty to spell out the trade-offs, the risks as well as the opportunities? More broadly, the Conservative Party will have to make a choice about its future. We could become a populist party, defined by one particular position on the Brexit debate, seeking to exploit anxiety and resentment about a fast-changing world. But such an approach would be inconsistent with the great traditions of Conservatism in the UK, would narrow our electoral appeal and take enormous great risks with our economic prosperity and the integrity of the United Kingdom. The case I have set out today is that Conservativism should be broad, not narrow; open, not closed; forward-looking, not yearning for a mythical past. It should be based on an appeal to the common sense, pragmatic instincts of the majority. We should seek to unite, not divide. In short, One Nation Conservatism. Pragmatic, practical, reasonable but determined. That is the character of the British people. That is the character of Conservatism at its best. Richard Kelly is co-author of Political Ideas and a contributor to Retrieving the Big Society. For much of the post-war era, the terms liberal and democracy have been synonymous. Indeed, liberal democracy has been the accepted description of most western states, while few have questioned the logic of parties calling themselves Liberal Democrats. Yet a basic study of political theory tells us that liberalism and democracy is a far from inevitable coupling, that about 200 years elapsed before the two were intertwined, and that the marriage itself was a forced one. So why has the lib-dem relationship been so fraught? And why has this been underlined by Brexit? A quick glance at liberalisms history is a good place to start. Lockes Legacy Liberalisms roots lie in the Enlightenment of the 17th and 18th centuries, when scholars like John Locke sought an alternative to traditional, absolutist government. Locke, and later the US Founding Fathers, duly argued that political authority should be fragmented and dispersed via a codified constitution, and that liberty required power cut into tiny pieces. So far, so democratic. But the issue gets more complicated when we recall liberalisms fundamental principle, viz., that each individual is endowed with natural rights. According to Locke, a mans freedom of speech, freedom to own property and freedom to realise his potential are God-given and non-negotiable: innate liberties that no state (and no other man) should deny. As Locke explained, a state where power is exercised autocratically or arbitrarily is a threat to such rights and must be averted by assorted checks and balances. Yet implicit to Lockes thesis, and liberalism generally, is a fear that the peoples natural rights are threatened not just by the wrong kind of state, but by the people themselves. And it is this assumption that makes liberals so wary of democracy. Power to (some of) the people Politics students are routinely told that liberalism has an optimistic view of human nature. Yet, in many respects, liberalisms view of human nature is rather distrustful and less relaxed than that of conservative thinkers like Michael Oakeshott. One early indication of this was the insistence, by early liberals, that votes could only be given to property owners the fear being that a landless majority would disrespect the notion that property was a natural right. Even then, classical liberals were taking no chances. To guard against what John Stuart Mill termed the tyranny of the majority, liberal constitutions would empower non-elected judges to strike down ideas which, while popular in elections, might infringe natural rights such rights being enshrined in a Bill of Rights that transcended election results. Consequently, liberal states aimed not just to promote but ensure liberal outcomes irrespective of what most voters wanted. As Jean-Jacques Rousseau asserted, individuals in an enlightened state should not merely be free, but forced to be free via the sort of constitution Locke prescribed, Educate first, democratise second By the mid-19th century, liberals like Mill acknowledged that an extension of the franchise was inevitable and that voting could no longer be confined to the propertied. Yet, here again, we see evidence that, while liberals wish to disperse power, they only wish to disperse it to the right kind of person. As such, Mill argued there should be no votes for the unschooled, as such individuals would be irrational and therefore illiberal. By contrast, Mill argued that bonus votes should be given to those who like Mill himself had been schooled all the way to a degree, and who could therefore be considered especially rational/liberal. Mill was confident that, once universal education was established, there would be a universal acceptance of liberal values, at which point it would be appropriate to grant universal suffrage. In the meantime, though, liberals judged Disraelis advice trust the people as irresponsible and downright dangerous: a judgement reflected a century later by architects of European Union. Liberalism and Europe By the early 1940s, continental nations were not exactly liberal in their government and politics. Yet, by the early 1950s, many of those same nations were a lodestar for liberals in Britain, with post-war plans for European integration enthusing many soi-disant progressives. Given liberalisms historic resolve to secure liberal outcomes irrespective of public opinion, the nascent EU, with its implicit aim of mitigating national elections, was bound to attract liberal interest. Small wonder as well that the first UK party to endorse European union was the 1950s Liberal Party its zeal increased, no doubt, by the threat of electoral extinction it was then facing. However, in Britain liberal ideas have seldom been restricted to Liberal parties; and the idea that Europe could copper-fasten capitalism (qua economic liberalism) soon detained many Conservatives. Partly to offset their worries that UK elections might produce Clause IV socialism, Harold Macmillan and Ted Heath thus sought membership of the capitalist club emerging in western Europe, while Margaret Thatcher campaigned to remain during the 1975 referendum. Only when capitalism seemed secure, following the end of the Cold War, did most Conservatives become worried about Europes democratic deficit. Meanwhile, many anti-Conservatives, whose defeats after 1979 gave them a sour view of UK elections, began to admire things like the EU Social Chapter (qua social liberalism) and its capacity to blunt further Tory victories. Once again, a supra-national liberal project was engaging those with an ambivalent view of democracy. Its the rules, stupid Brexit has shown us that the divide between Remain and Leave is not about social and economic policy. Both George Osborne and Boris Johnson actively detest racism and sexism. Both Anna Soubry and Daniel Hannan back free-market economics. Both Tom Watson and Kate Hoey support more public ownership. Instead, the Brexit divide concerns the very rules of political engagement or, more specifically, the extent to which they should be liberal rules. In this respect, UK politics is back in the land of Locke. Should the values we cherish require ongoing consent at the ballot box? Or, like Lockes, are they too sacred for the rough and tumble of elections? Should enlightened policies be regularly subject to democratic scrutiny? Or, as Mill insisted, should they be guaranteed by constitutional backstops? Should democratic procedures be paramount? Or are they less important than liberal outcomes (a notion that might also explain liberalisms qualified support for free speech hence its connection to PC, safe-spacing and no-platforming)? In liberal circles, Brexit has also prompted a return to Mills concern about universal suffrage. Is it right, wonders Polly Toynbee, that the votes of the young should carry no more weight than those of their reactionary elders? It is sensible, asks George Monbiot, that on a vital issue like Brexit the votes of graduates can be negated by the less educated? Classical liberal concerns about the tyranny of the majority are clearly alive and kicking. A dying doctrine? When defending their corner, liberals might remember that, while the tyranny of the majority can be unpleasant, the diktats of an unelected liberal minority be it Supreme Court judges or EU Commissioners can be much more offensive to modern voters. Furthermore, at a time when trust in elites is declining, and when ordinary people are increasingly vocal via social media, it is anyhow unclear if the recurrent liberal dream state-guaranteed capitalism and individualism is really sustainable. If not, then far from being the end of history, liberalism could soon mark the end of an historic conceit. Garvan Walshe is a former national and international security policy adviser to the Conservative Party. He runs TRD Policy. What if you called a culture war and nobody came? Thats the question faced by the leaders of Spains Partido Popular (the mainstream conservatives), and Vox (a new hard right party) as they contemplate the wreckage of an election campaign in which the opponent they had demonised (the socialist Pedro Sanchez) increased his partys seats by a third and looks set to govern for the next five years. Pablo Casado had taken over the PP last summer after his predecessors minority government had been ousted by Sanchez through parliamentary maneouvering following the culmination of an eternal illegal party funding scandal. He ran in the leadership election as the change candidate. In reaction to his the centrism of his predecessor Mariano Rajoy, Casado promised una derecha sin complejos, a spanish phrase we would recognise as sound Toryism. He won decisively and made the fight against Catalan secession his leitmotif. He continued with a solidly conservative social policy agenda, proposing to tighten abortion laws and questioning other social changes that had taken place in Spain. He married this with a strongly Thatcherite economic programme, promising lower taxes and deregulation. This was probably what he always believed. It was also a way to carve out clear blue water from the centre-right Ciudadanos party that had been nipping at the PPs heels. He might lose votes to Ciudadanos to his left, but his unrepentantly sound position would keep his right flank secure. Reasonable though this plan may have seemed, it would founder on the appearance of a party even more sound: Vox, which played UKIP to Casados Conservative Way Forward. Voxs emergence at first appeared to help Casado, because though Vox took the ultra vote for itself, and in regional elections in Andalucia took some 12 per cent of the vote, it, together with PP and Ciudadanos and enabled PP and Ciudadanos to sustain a coalition in what has long been a traditional socialist bastion. Vox itself is loud, nationalist, and deliberately offensive in style its manifesto of 100 proposals was long on sexism, bullfighting, and ancient glories of the Spanish empire. Fronted by Santiago Abascal, who had been a target of the Basque separatist ETA, Vox grabbed attention by condemning feminazis and the Islamic invasion of Spain. Abascal became an aficionado of Soros conspiracy theories, but considers himself pro-Israel. When a Vox candidate was found to be a Holocaust denier, he was swiftly dismissed, to the consternation of activists. The difficulty this posed Casado was that he couldnt out-Vox Vox. His right turn not ended up not only losing his votes to his left, but was insufficient to stem the flow to his right wing. Rather than expand the right wing coalition, Vox helped itself to support which Casado thought was rightfully his. On election day Casado failed to staunch the loss of votes, not only to Ciudadanos, but even to the socialist PSOE. He legitimised Voxs culture war without reaping any of the benefit. It was a culture war fought on decidedly ill-chosen territory. Vox decided to concentrate on immigration, the so-called Islamic threat, the feminist supremacists, and alleged threats to bullfighting. Topics that excite a few Spaniards but only a minority. They even jumped the shark when Abascal decided to make gun ownership an issue, as though importing a carbon copy of the US right wing movement. He ended up being condemned by the police, who said they didt want any more school shootings. In the end Voxs obsession with Islam far exceeded that of ordinary Spaniards. Abascal even launched his campaign in Covadonga, in the northern region of Asturias, famous as the first victory of the Christians against the Moors (in 722!). Casado rushed rightwards to try and match this extremism, further alienating centrist voters and motivating the left to turn up to the polls. Casado was guilty of the most basic political sin failing to design a campaign based on what the people actually think. Opinion polling has consistently shown that Spaniards main concerns were corruption and unemployment (even Vox voters were not predominantly worried about immigration). Given that the corruption scandals were the PPs own, it would have been difficult for the PP to make running there, but economic policy has been their strong suit. It was the PP that brought the country out of the crisis, restored healthy rates of economic growth and brought unemployment down. It should have run on that record, and developed policies to target the specific problems the Spanish economy faces (which include young men who gave up school to work on construction sites during the boom but who became unemployable in the bust). To do that, however, Casado would have had to endorse his predecessors work. Instead, he finds his party reduced to 66 from 137 seats, and his opponents increased to 123 from 85. Ciudadanos at 57, are nipping at their heels, while Vox only got 24, fewer than the Catalan separatists. Pablo Casado has a new nickname now: Fracasado. It translates as failed. Davidson rejects prospect of splitting the Party Following suggestions (set out on this site by Andy Maciver) that the Scottish Conservatives were contemplating a breakaway, Ruth Davidson appeared to quash the suggestion this week, according to the Times. She reportedly told Andrew Marr that: My entire leadership pitch back in 2011 was predicated on the idea that we wanted to remain part of the United Kingdom party but with the autonomy for candidate selection, policy, financing and all of these other things that come under my purview. The extent of this autonomy has been stretched in the past, such as on occasions when it appeared that some Scottish Conservatives were trying to claim they had distinct policies on reserved issues. Sources in the Scottish Tories claim to have private polling which suggests that Boris Johnson is satanically unpopular in Scotland, and some suggest that this would necessitate a breakaway if he became leader of the UK party. Earlier this week it was revealed that the former Foreign Secretary had been barred from the Scottish conference. However, this hasnt stopped Johnson from embarking on a leadership tour of Scotland to bolster his One Nation credentials, the Sun reports. He will headline a fundraiser organised by Ross Thomson, the arch-Brexiteer MP for Aberdeen South, as well as trying to drum up support amongst other associations. Meanwhile Davidson used the conference to start setting out her pitch for the First Ministers job at the next Scottish elections. Amongst her headline policies was a proposal to raise the leaving age for mandatory education from 16 to 18 and a new emphasis on vocational education. She also promised that her administration would mean an end to the constitutional games which have so pre-occupied the SNP over the past few years. Mercer resigns over prosecution of veterans The News Letter reports on Johnny Mercers decision to withdraw his support from the Government until it takes action to prevent the prosecution of ex-servicemen for alleged historical offences in Northern Ireland. In a letter to the Prime Minister, the MP for Plymouth Moor View wrote that he found the repeated investigations personally offensive, adding: These repeated investigations with no new evidence, the macabre spectacle of elderly veterans being dragged back to Northern Ireland to face those who seek to re-fight that conflict through other means, without any protection from the Government who sent them almost 50 years ago, is too much. He has withdrawn his support from all Government legislation outside of Brexit. Although none have yet gone so far as Mercer, the question of protecting veterans of the security forces in Northern Ireland excises a number of Conservative backbenchers. The Northern Irish Office has been criticised for deliberately excluding Ulster cases from the Ministry of Defences broader efforts to protect current and former soldiers from so-called tank-chasing lawyers. In other Northern Irish news, a senior figure in the Provinces human rights community has accused Sinn Fein of abusing the concept of human rights by using a row over the status of the Irish language to block the restoration of Stormont. Professor Brice Dickson, former chief commissioner at the Northern Ireland Human Rights Commission, argued that republicans decision to use gay marriage and the language question as bargaining chips was denying the people of Ulster their right to government, and that in 2008 Sinn Fein supported the NIHRCs advice on a Bill of Rights which included neither measure. Meanwhile an academic has written to the News Letter urging the DUP to separate the two issues. Professor John Wilson Foster, a scholar of the Irish language, argued that the DUPs opposition to gay marriage undermined the Union, and that abandoning it would strengthen their chances of resisting Sinn Feins politically-motivated language legislation. Doubts linger over Welsh Assembly as health minister survives no-confidence vote Vaughan Gething, the Welsh health minister and recent contender for the local Labour leadership, has survived an attempt to oust him from his position in the wake of the latest Welsh health scandal, Wales Online reports. A motion of no confidence was tabled by Plaid Cymru following the revelation that dozens of stillbirths have not been properly reported or investigated at hospitals run by the Cwm Taf NHS Trust. It was supported by the Nationalists and the Tories, but fell 31 votes to 21. This comes just weeks after news broke that Welsh patients face being turned away at English hospitals because the Welsh Government refuses to match English per-patient funding, which I looked at in this column a few weeks ago. Perhaps stories like this explain why polling published this week to mark the 20th anniversary of devolution revealed deep ambivalence amongst the public as to whether or not it had been good for Wales, with just a third agreeing and a quarter disagreeing. Despite this and likely in part due to the lack of any consistent and effective devo-sceptic campaign an overall majority (52 per cent) favour either granting the Assembly even more powers (27 per cent) or holding it at the same level (25 per cent). Just under a fifth of Welsh voters want its powers weakened or the Assembly abolished, but at present that view is almost entirely unrepresented in Welsh political life. by Giosue Bonzi The founder of LArche, an organisation that fosters cohabitation of healthy people and people with physical and mental disabilities, passed away last night. LArche is present in 35 countries with 147 communities. Faith and Light, another association Vanier co-founded to bring together people with special needs, their families and friends, is present in at least 80 countries with 1,800 communities. Pope Francis remembers him, as does a Hong Kong missionary, who worked with him. Hong Kong (AsiaNews) Jean Vanier, founder of LArche (The Ark) communities, died yesterday at the age of 90, spending a lifetime building communities in which healthy people and people with physical and mental disabilities live together. Born in 1928 in Geneva (Switzerland), Jean Vanier was a naval officer. At some point he abandoned his military career to study philosophy and work as a teacher. In 1963, an encounter with disabled people led him to help abled and disabled people to live together, encouraging individuals who in the eyes of the world are "healthy" and "efficient" to share with those who are seen as more "fragile". LArche is present in 35 countries with 147 communities. Faith and Light, which brings together people with special needs, their families and friends, is present in at least 80 countries with 1,800 communities. Yesterday, Pope Francis, on his way home from a visit to Bulgaria and North Macedonia, remembered Jean Vanier, expressing his gratitude for his testimony, a man who knew how to read the Christian strength from the mystery of death, the cross, and disease. From the mystery of those who are discarded in the world. He worked not only for the last but also for those who risk being sentenced to death before their birth. He spent his life like that. Let us thank him and God for giving us a man of such great testimony. Father Giosue Bonzi, a PIME missionary, for almost 50 years in Hong Kong, met and worked with Jean Vanier. Fr Bonzi is one of the founders of the Fu Hong Society, a network of family homes where healthy people and people with disabilities can live together. Before meeting Jean personally, I came to know his spirit and his mission by reading a book that a friend had sent me from Italy, La comunita, luogo del perdono e della festa (original title in French La Communaute : lieu du pardon et de la fete; English edition: Community and growth). It was 1981: about four years before I started the Fu Hong Society (FHS). I was very impressed and curious to know more of him and his work. In the spring of 1982, during my holidays back in Italy, I visited the Faith and Light community in Rome, where I met its Italian founder, Mariangela Bertolini, who enthusiastically arranged a meeting with her great friend Jean. In 1971 Mariangela had participated in the famous pilgrimage to Lourdes with him and her friend Marie-Helene Mathieu, along with thousands of people with intellectual disabilities, as well as their parents and friends. Thus, travelling by train, I arrived in Trosly-Breuil where I stayed for a few days at the first LArche community. In addition to Jean, I met his elderly mother Pauline and Fr Thomas Philippe, his spiritual director. Of course, there were various friends with disabilities around them, in various homes around the first one, which has a chapel for perpetual Eucharistic worship, a converted stable with the original manger and other local fittings. In such a background conducive to prayers, I frequently met Jean, but I had to wait quietly for more than a day to talk to him one to one. He was extremely busy. I had other valuable occasions for long and pleasant conversations with his mother and Fr Thomas. In such a place, one can breathe in the ambient spirituality, absorb it by "immersion". The talk with Jean was very warm. I told him about the mandate I had received from Christian communities from various denominations. I invited him to visit Hong Kong. He didn't give me any timetable, but assured me that he really wanted to come and visit us. In September 1990, Jean finally came to Hong Kong, welcomed by the first local Faith and Light community. In 1990 I was asked to serve as a chaplain of the Faith and Light community (there are three now). Jean began inviting me to the spiritual retreats and training courses he organised in the Far East. I meet him twice in Korea, in the Philippines, in Taiwan ... In 1994 I was invited to the Faith and Light International Meeting in Warsaw (Poland), then the one in Quebec City (Canada) in 1998, and in Rome (2002). One of the most appealing moments for locals was the celebration of Mass with friends with disabilities from all the continents, as well as and especially the "Fiesta", in which everyone is encouraged to show off the typical costumes of their country and culture. In the fall of 1999, I was invited to spend a week attending spiritual exercises at Versailles, preached by Jean, specifically for chaplains, Catholic and Protestant, of Faith and Light communities. During Holy Week and Easter 2001, Faith and Lights 30th anniversary, I accompanied the Hong Kong delegation to Lourdes, where over 24,000 pilgrims people with disabilities, family and friends came together. I want to thank the Lord for having had the opportunity of meeting Jean Vanier and actively participating in his mission of love and sharing with the "little ones". God granted a tremendous grace when he let us be led by the Spirit of the Risen and living Christ, each one in in our own environment, each with our own community and church commitment, bearing witness to the joy and peace that the inclusion of the weakest in society brings to everyone and to the whole community. This is a true Kairos. For this reason, all of Jean's friends feel in their heart, at his passing, a very strong wish to say "Thank you! Halleluiah! 100% Website adocom.de uses latest and advanced technologies like: JQuery, Boostrap and WebFonts. It supports HTTPS and GZIP compression. 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Bloomberg reported in November that the previous administration reached an agreement with Uber Technologies Inc. in which the platform will withhold taxes from partners who gain income from both its ride-hailing and food delivery services. The country has been looking for ways to boost tax collection that's the worst among members of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development. The previous administration was also in talks with Netflix Inc. to collect sales taxes from users. Airbnb Inc. had stepped away from talks that would have required the home-sharing website to collect income tax from its hosts. The program wouldn't create a new tax but would collect what drivers should already be reporting and paying monthly. More than half of Mexico's population works in the informal economy and doesn't pay income taxes. 2019 Patron Perfectionists Global Cocktail Competition Atotonilco El Alto, Jalisco, Mexico - The fifth annual "Patron Perfectionists Cocktail Competition" launched globally on May 7, 2019. Inspired by the perfectionists who craft each bottle of Patron, the Global Cocktail Competition brings together mixologists who demonstrate a continuous pursuit of perfection behind the bar. This year's contest has an even broader global reach with bartenders from across six continents invited to submit their recipes, which will make this year's competition for the perfect Patron Tequila-based cocktail, well... stiff. Matthew Sykes, senior director of international marketing at Patron Spirits International, said: "2019 is a milestone year for the brand. In just five years, the Patron Perfectionists Cocktail Competition has grown from a single country competition in the UK to a program that spans six continents, involving more than 32 countries. Over the last four years we have seen more than 6,000 bartenders enter and over the next few months we expect to see more than 5,000 register for this year's contest. Registration for the competition is now open at PatronPerfectionists.com, with international finals taking place from September until November 2019. The 22 winners from the international finals will head to Jalisco, Mexico in January 2020 to compete in the global final at Hacienda Patron, the home of Patron Tequila. At the Global Finals, contestants will be judged on how well they craft a Patron cocktail that embodies their home country and measured against the following categories: appearance, originality, service/hosting and flavor. Judges will also look for select values to be brought to life through the bartenders' cocktail creations and presentations, including a respect for craftsmanship, attention to detail and an unwavering commitment to perfection. "Having reached the fifth year of this competition, it is a testament to the ever-increasing creativity of bartenders across the world and a consistent interest in demonstrating their passion through Patron Tequila. I am so looking forward to seeing how the entrants this year will showcase the craftsmanship and sheer perfection that goes into every bottle of Patron Tequila," Lee Applbaum, chief marketing officer at Patron Spirits International, said. Only bartenders with the best flavors and mixology skills will prevail. Do you think you have what it takes? Then go to PatronPerfectionists.com and enter the 2019 competition! Higher ticket pricing and onboard spend helped drive Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings (NCLH) Q1 results, according to President and CEO Frank Del Rio, who spoke on todays earnings call. With forward bookings at similar levels to last year, despite more capacity, and at higher pricing, Del Rio said that he expects the full year to be the seventh consecutive year of double digit earnings growth for NCLH. The company upped its adjusted earnings forecast for the year to $5.40 to $5.50 from $5.20 to $5.30 given in February. Also driving growth is the companys development of new markets such, as Australia, Israel and Brazil, according to Del Rio, while Germany and the UK have shown double-digit booking increases over the past eight weeks. Another contributing factor was the Joys exit from what Del Rio called the lower yielding Chinese market to Alaska, which he said is the brands highest yielding market. Q4 is also expected to be strong for the Norwegian brand with the introduction of the new Norwegian Encore in the Caribbean, which Mark Kempa, CFO, said was on track to be best booked Caribbean ship in the fleet ever. According to Del Rio, Oceania and the Regent Seven Seas also show what he called stellar booking performance with very little inventory left to sell for 2019 and 40 percent sold already for 2020, which, he said, is more early bookings than for previous years and at higher pricing. Del Rio also cited macro economic factors that continue to bolster consumer confidence for the industry. With strong U.S. GDP growth reported for Q1, he said confident consumers are willing to spend more on vacations. The AIDAnova made her maiden call in Marseille today. Captain Boris Becker welcomed representatives from politics, port-related businesses and tourism aboard for the traditional plaque exchange. This was said to be the first call for an LNG-fueled cruise ship in a French port. For Republican state Rep. Vin Candelora, the seemingly hopeless quest to win justice in an electoral snub by Democrats is taking on its own life. The fight is now bigger than the dispute over the botched election in the 120th House district in Stratford, in which Democratic Rep. Phil Young was re-elected despite a mistake that rendered the outcome too close to call. On Wednesday, it spilled into the state Senate even though that chamber has no role in deciding the outcome of the disputed race between Young and Republican Jim Feehan. And its not just about that race anymore. Republicans, led by Candelora, are now determined to change the rules so the courts can decide on election disputes in the House and Senate, as they do for other elected offices. To me, this is a question of the integrity of our institution, Candelora, the deputy majority leader from North Branford, said Wednesday. The sequence of events has grown absurd, and is, to say the least, not a ringing endorsement of democracy Late Tuesday night, Candelora, for the second time in just over two weeks, raised an amendment to an election-related bill in hopes of addressing the fiasco of last November in the 120th, in which 75 voters received the wrong ballots, voted in the wrong race and left. His bid failed along party lines. Young won the election by just 13 votes. Feehan far outpolled him at Bunnell High School, where the error happened making the contest a virtual dead-heat statistically. Feehan and other Republicans called for a new election, which would be the only way to determine the rightful winner. The state Supreme Court ruled in a lawsuit by Feehan that it doesnt have the power to decide on disputed House and Senate races. Only those chambers can do that. Majority Democrats seated Young over GOP objections. A 4-member commission on election disputes split over what to do along party lines, of course. That was Feb. 4, and House Democratic leaders have not brought a resolution since then saying theyre trying to find the right way to go. Their concern is that a new election would disenfranchise the 10,000 people who did vote in the election, most of whom would stay home in a do-over. On April 24, Candelora raised an amendment to an election-related bill before the House (a resolution for an early-voting amendment to the Constitution). His plan then was to revote the 120th at Bunnell only, which would give Feehan little chance of winning but Feehan and other Republicans were willing to accept. The speaker ruled the Candelora amendment not germane, as amendments must relate directly to the underlying bills they amend. Democrats won a vote on the germane question, along party lines, of course. In that action, strangely, Young actually cast a vote along with fellow Democrats even though it was about his own seat. I dont think ethically he should have voted on that amendment. If I was in his position I would have stood up and left the room, Candelora said. Young said he would have recused himself and left the floor but the surprise amendment left him present for the debate and he was told he had to vote under House rules because he was there. On Tuesday, with another election-related vote on the floor (requiring local housing authorities to make voter registration forms available), Candelora and Rep. Jason Perillo, R-Shelton (the other Republican on the disputed elections panel), raised the amendment to let state courts decide on disputes in the House. Candelora called the Democrats treatment of the dispute a travesty of the election process, especially while Democrats are working so hard to expand the vote to more people, and said the courts would do a better job. Majority Leader Matt Ritter, D-Hartford, said it would be unconstitutional to pass a statute letting courts decide races in the House, though the Supreme Court, in its decision, referred to the lack of a statute giving it the authority. The vote happened anyway along party lines, of course. Then on Wednesday, Sen. Kevin Kelly, R-Stratford, raised a similar amendment when that chamber was debating the early-voting plan. This time, it called for a constitutional amendment to let the courts decide General Assembly disputes. Kelly and other GOP senators vented their own outrage over the 120th. Senate President Pro-Tem Martin Looney, D-New Haven, said ceding disputes to the courts would be far-reaching in ways that we could not predict today, and the amendment failed 23-13 along party lines, of course, with one Republican, George Logan, joining Democrats. Look for more Republican amendments related to the botched 120th House district election. All of this could have been avoided, and justice served swiftly, with a do-over in an election where we cannot now know the fair result. Now, Republicans are as mad about the lack of any resolution as they were about the original decision to seat Young. Regardless of the outcome of the decision, the House of Representatives has the obligation to dispose of a complaint one way or another, Candelora said. I think it is, at this point, the height of arrogance that we are not addressing an electorate. We are supposed to care so much about the disenfranchisement of a voter. dhaar@hearstmediact.com Democrats including Gov. Ned Lamont are preparing to replace most of the state income tax with a payroll tax, a new way to raise cash for the state that would mark the most radical change in Connecticut finances since the income tax started 28 years ago. The plan would mean a tax cut for every person who works in Connecticut, at least in theory. At its heart, its a simple idea: Employers would pay a payroll tax of 5 percent on all wages and salaries. They would, presumably, cut employees pay by 5 percent to make themselves whole. The key is that employees would make 5 percent less, reducing federal income taxes as well as Social Security and Medicaid taxes for them and their employers. Most would be free of the state income tax, and those who now pay more than 5 percent would pay the difference, perhaps with the state taking some of their new savings. Those who pay less than 5 percent would receive a rebate from the state. If its crafted right, according to documents top leaders are using as a blueprint, every taxpayer rich, poor, middle-class, small business owners would all save money even as the state gained a new source of added revenue. Savings would amount to an estimated $1.6 billion for employers and residents, and the state would take in $400 million on top of that by raising tax rates for couples making more than $400,000 and single filers making more than $200,000 even as those people paid less money overall. Everybody gets a tax break, from EITC to millionaires, said Sen. John Fonfara, D-Hartford, co-chairman of the General Assemblys finance committee, referring to low-income workers who receive the earned income tax credit. Everybody will come out ahead. Details matter The stumbling block is in the many complications on the path to making the plan work not politics or ideology. First among the questions is whether the IRS will try to block it. The plan came from the Connecticut School Finance Project, a nonprofit, nonpartisan group based in New Haven that works on public finance issues. It was based on thinking that arose after the late-2017 Republican national tax reform act capped federal deductions for state and local taxes at $10,000 costing Connecticut taxpayers an estimated $2.8 billion. The feds nixed an idea last year under which taxpayers could have donated money to cities and towns in exchange for lower property tax payments, for example. In this plan, There isnt anything there for the IRS to disallow, said Katie Roy, a tax attorney who founded the Connecticut School Finance Project and is its executive director. Its not an easy switch for the state and employers to make. For example, unions have negotiated pay levels that would need to change; self-employed people would act as both employer and employee, with complications; big companies with national pay systems would need to do some local tailoring; people who work in Connecticut but live elsewhere may have new filings to make. And of course, employers would need to remit the new payroll tax to the state, replacing or augmenting withholding, depending on each employees salary. The list of stumbling blocks continues. But as far as I can tell, theres no deal-killer. The $2 billion or so in extra cash for Connecticut easily makes the headaches worthwhile. Fonfara adds, We will not need a capital gains tax. In other words, if lawmakers can make it happen this year, effective Jan. 1 a big if the payroll tax would eliminate the issue thats dividing Democrats most sharply: Whether to raise an estimated $260 million a year by creating a surcharge on capital gains income for wealthy taxpayers in the highest income-tax bracket. Lamont has said that wont happen, though he has not threatened a veto outright. Democrats in the General Assembly want the capital gains tax. A standoff has seemed unavoidable. A rush to deadline As of this week, Lamonts top aides, including Chief of Staff Ryan Drajewicz and Melissa McCaw, the policy and budget chief, are working on the payroll tax along with key agencies, chiefly the Department of Revenue Services, Fonfara and Rep. Jason Rojas, D-East Hartford, co-chairman of the finance committee, both said. Rojas had a series of talks early this year with people from the project and others, and thought the plan would require months of planning. Lets take the summer and work through it, he figured. After the finance committee finished its tax plan last week, Fonfara turned to the payroll tax idea. When I found out how many boxes it checks, I said, We need to do this, he told me in the crazy hours Wednesday night into Thursday morning, as the House debated a minimum wage increase. We can do this. We have a month. The regular legislative session ends at 11:59 p.m. on Wednesday, June 5 less than four weeks from now. A special session is possible but implementing a payroll tax effective Jan. 1, to work with the rest of the 2019-20 state budget, would require huge systems work after it was approved. Its certainly possible, Rojas said. Theres just a lot of details we have to work out. No state has implemented a broad payroll tax since the federal tax reform. New Hampshire has a payroll tax and no income tax, and New York in 2018 launched a voluntary payroll tax with an income tac credit, which is not widely used. This proposal is complex, said Lamont spokeswoman Maribel La Luz, but its an idea worth fully vetting and exploring with our colleagues in the legislature. On the Republican side, Gail Lavielle, R-Wilton, ranking member of the appropriations committee, said it may be part of the answer to the states fiscal crisis. Will it solve everything? No way, Lavielle said early Thursday, but she added, Any headway is good. How much will I save? Documents prepared by the Connecticut School Finance Project give examples. A married couple making $100,000, for example, now pays $5,172 in state income taxes. The couples combined state income tax and payroll deduction would total slightly more, $5,250, but its federal tax bill (based on a standard deduction) would drop by $982, for a total savings of $904. A single person making $40,000 a year would see his or her total state tax go up in the form of a employer payroll levy from $1,395 to $2,000. That worker would owe the federal government $393 less, for a net increase of $212. The state would make that up, perhaps with a kicker. A couple earning $1 million would see a net reduction of $19,675 because their taxable income would drop by $50,000. If the state were to hike their Connecticut taxes by 1 percentage point, to a total of 7.99 percent from the current 6.99 percent, theyd still come out ahead by nearly $10,000 and the state would pocket an extra $10,000. In total, households would see a benefit estimated at about $1 billion, assuming those at the low end were made whole, or slightly enriched, and assuming the state grabbed an extra 1 percentage point from those making more than $200,000 for singles and $400,000 for joint filers. Employers would benefit by $600 million by paying Social Security and Medicaid taxes at a lower base, by reducing payroll by 5 percent while paying the state 5 percent on a slightly lower base. After eyeballing the numbers compared with state tax figures, Id say thats a conservative estimate it could be a much bigger savings for employers. The state would add an estimated $400 million a year to its coffers even after spending money to make lower-income people whole. Thats because it would eliminate certain exemptions in addition to raising overall tax rates for high-end earners. Looking at numbers of taxpayers, based on state tax collection data from 2017, it appears that a bit more than half of households would pay no state tax at all, and roughly another 25 percent, those making between $50,000 and $100,000, would pay just one-half of 1 percent in state income tax, after their employers paid the 5 percent payroll charge. Ironic end of a tax Speaking of workarounds to beat the federal tax reform, this idea is similar in some ways to the employer tax on so-called pass-though income thats earned by partnerships such as law firms. That started last year in Connecticut as a response to the Trump tax reform. Rather than pay regular taxable income, the partnerships tax themselves at the business level, thereby reducing each partners income and earning state tax credits. It was allowed by the IRS, as this should be, as well. Theres no estimate of the cost of implementing this new tax plan. The Connecticut School Finance Project is not a consultant and does not charge the state for developing the idea in detailed documents. (As an aside, the group might need to change its name to reflect its new, broader focus.) The payroll tax would eliminate all of the state income tax for most residents, and most of the tax for all residents, which was the centerpiece of Republican Bob Stefanowskis campaign against Lamont for governor. Of course, Stefanowski proposed to do it without adding a different tax. Stefanowski, in a message to me Thursday, suggested the feds will reject a scheme that reduces federal tax receipts by hundreds of millions of dollars, and that Lamont should focus on cutting state spending. Still, the irony of the income tax going away for many state residents is lost on no one. Stefanowski ran on it, Fonfara said, but the crazy thing is that its Lamont that could make it happen. dhaar@hearstmediact.com Contributed photo / New Canaan Police NEW CANAAN An Ansonia social worker has been accused of providing marijuana to a juvenile in her care and failing to report possible neglect and abuse. Kelly Howard, 32, of Park Place in Ansonia, was charged Thursday with failure by a mandated reporter to report abuse, sale of a controlled substance and illegal sale of tobacco to a minor. DERBY A fire at Derby High School was extinguished by staff Wednesday morning, according to fire officials. Three fire engines and six additional fire units responded to the reported fire. The alert for the blaze came over just before 8:30 a.m. for a fire at Derby High School. Fire officials said when fire units got to the scene and found out that there was a small fire that had been put out by school staff. The blaze was in the faculty lounge, fire officials said. Units remained on scene for about 20 minutes. There were no injuries reported, officials said. The cause of the fire remains under investigation. Educators will gather halfway across the world next week at a conference in Belgium to learn how Bridgeport Public Schools embrace of social and emotional learning is starting to pay dividends. Carrie Ramanauskas, a former classroom teacher and now the coordinator of Social and Emotional Learning for the district, and Ashley Blanchard, a research analyst for the Bridgeport Child Advocacy Coalition, have been invited to present at the May 15-17 International Institute for Restorative Practices conference in Kortrijk, Belgium. Blanchard called it an extraordinary opportunity to be recognized on an international level. The grant-funded trip is aimed at showing how school climate can improve through a combination of learning to recognize and control emotions and discipline strategies that are less punitive and more restorative. One without the other doesnt work as well, Ramanauskas said the district has come to realize. We are going to show how our movement here is really transforming things. Together, the school district is starting to see improvements in school climate and a reduction in school suspensions and expulsions. This spring the district reported an increase in reported bullying instances, but largely because of an intensive campaign by the school board and superintendent to encourage recognition and acknowledgment of what some consider a bullying epidemic. Out-of-school suspensions, meanwhile, have declined each of the past five years. In 2013-14 there were 4,783, while in 2017-18, there were 3,008. While in-school suspensions began climbing during that period, that number too has declined in the past two years. Last year it stood at 3,915. We feel the (out-of-school and in-school) suspensions are going down legitimately at schools with trained educators, Ramanauskas said, and not reduced by ignoring or under-reporting disruptions. The districts effort to improve learning by factoring student stress and trauma into the equation began in 2013 when former Schools Superintendent Fran Rabinowitz brought Yale Universitys Center for Emotional Intelligence to the district. In Bridgeport, Yales RULER program to recognize, understand, label, express and regulate emotions began at Wilbur Cross School, and then expanded. Funded largely by the Tauck Family Foundation, the program involves teacher, staff and parent training, visuals such as color-coded mood meters to help students identify feelings, and charters that classes draft as aspirational documents to live by. Nationwide, the program is in more than two dozen school districts including Miami, Seattle, Colorado Springs and Bellevue, Washington. There are studies that show it works. Beyond differentiated instruction in our children, there are differentiations in emotionalities, said Janet Brown Clayton, an assistant superintendent in the district. Teachers are trained to consider elements going on in the lives of students they may not otherwise have considered. That way they can better understand the student in front of them, Clayton said. RULER is now in all city elementary schools and is spreading to the high school level. There, the district combines RULER with restorative justice practices which seek not to punish but solve problems by promoting accountability and dialogue. With RULER alone, it seemed like it was missing something, Ramanauskas said. Likewise, just restorative practice without RULER, there were skills missing. Two students brought together to work out differences need to be able to label their emotions, she said. Restorative practices is an effort pushed by Jo Ann Freiberg, a school climate specialist with the state Department of Education. In Bridgeport, the effort started in 2015 when Kate Rivera, a social justice and diversity educator and short time school board member, succeeded in getting a district policy passed that sought to replace suspensions with restorative justice techniques. The aim was to curb the disproportionate number of minority students kicked out of school or arrested. The training started at four schools in 2016-2017 and then grew. In Bridgeport, the efforts look different depending on the school. Some schools have a Student Ambassador program to train students who in turn train classmates in social and emotional learning. At Harding, there is a climate specialist who talks with kids kicked out of class and a refocus room, the goal being to avoid in-school suspension and get them back in class. Assistant Principal Kathy Silver said the program works and she hopes funding for the position continues. Prior to refocus rooms, all these students would be sitting in an ISS room, Ramanauskas said. Central High, meanwhile, has a mindfulness room that works on the same premise of getting kids back to class. Bridgeport Military Academy is looking into a room with flexible seating to help students calm down. I am learning more about it, said Soares, adding it wont be added until thoroughly researched. Schools Superintendent Aresta Johnson called the districts invitation to the conference an acknowledgment of the great work she said the city school system has done in advancing social and emotional learning. Ramanauskas hopes by going, she can share what the district is doing, learn from others, and put Bridgeport on the map in a positive way, she said. A lot of time, Bridgeport gets really bad narrative, Ramanauskas said. Sure more funding would help, but she said many amazing things happen in the district. I can not name a school (in Bridgeport) where there are not awesome things happening. This coming year, the districts Social and Emotional Learning effort starts a new three- to five-year grant funding cycle. More students and adults will be trained. lclambeck@ctpost.com; twitter/lclambeck Getty Images FAIRFIELD A Bridgeport man being sought for crimes in Fairfield and Trumbull was arrested after police said he stole a set of keys from a local factory. Raymond Bridges, 59, of Brooks Street, was charged with two counts of sixth-degree larceny and one count each of third-degree burglary and criminal trespass. He is being held in lieu of $20,000 bond. Xem them (Construction) - On December 3, in Hanoi, the Ministry of Construction held a conference to appraise the General Plan for Construction Project of Cao Bang Border Gate Economic Zone to 2040. ... Tin bai cuoi cung Khong con du lieu e load The Senate endorsed a constitutional amendment Wednesday that would create an early voting system, but failed to pass it by the margin necessary to place it on the 2020 November ballot. The chamber voted 23-13 to approve the proposal, falling four votes short of the three-fourths margin needed to send it before voters 18 months from now. Senate Republicans who came out against the plan said they were uneasy with the resolutions lack of detail on how the early voting would work in Connecticut. Such a proposal would be unlikely to boost civic engagement, they reasoned, as voters already have sufficient access to the polls with same-day registration and absentee ballots. They also worried about fraud. This resolution will give lawmakers the ability to use political power to meddle with current constitutional protections that we have, said Sen George Logan, R-Ansonia. This resolution could open up our voting system to more potential fraud and disenfranchise the current system. If someone cannot make it to the polls on Election Day, they can still vote via absentee ballot. He did not elaborate on the type of fraud to which municipalities could be subjected. I view this as a blank check for the next legislature to do whatever they want with, said Sen. John Kissel, R-Enfield. Im concerned about that and my constituents are concerned about that. They want to know exactly what does quote-unquote early voting entail. Several hours before the vote, Kissel said that if the resolution was not approved by the 75 percent margin, it simply means that its not going to be fast-tracked. Kissel said he spoke to his constituents about the proposal and they felt a rush in this area was misguided. Theres no need to rush. Shortly before the vote, Senate President Pro Tem Martin M. Looney, D-New Haven, spoke in favor of the resolution, saying, I think this is an important policy area for the state of Connecticut, an area in which we once had the lead, but have fallen behind. I think we have been a leader in access to voter registration but not in access to actual voting because of our absence of an early voting mechanism that so many other states have adopted. I think its time for us to move forward on that, to give the people an opportunity to vote on that question and to give us a chance then, if the people so approve it, to legislate in that area. Sen. Steve Cassano D-Manchester, also spoke strongly in favor of the bill saying that it would prevent those 8 oclock rushes at the polls that we see so commonly, particularly when we have national elections. Thats why other states have made the change to prevent that kind of almost an invasion on the polls because you cant do it all in one day Youve stood in those long lines. Everyone has been at the polls and we see people turn around and go home because the lines are too long. This is an attempt to rectify that. Connecticut is one of 11 states without early voting at the polls and one of only three whose state constitutions bar it. In 2018, nearly 40 million Americans in 39 states and the District of Columbia went to the polls before Election Day. Amending the constitution is cumbersome. There are two paths to place the question on the ballot, each beginning with legislative action. If three-quarters of both the House and Senate endorse a resolution, it is placed on the ballot in the next biennial state election. In that case it would go on the November 2020 ballot. If both chambers pass the measure, but at least one does so with less than a 75 percent endorsement, then it must be referred to the 2021 session of the legislature. If it passes in that session by a simple majority, it will appear on the 2022 general election ballot. If a majority of those voting on the amendment in the general election approve it, the amendment will become part of the state constitution. The House last month authorized early voting 125-24, easily exceeding the 75 percent supermajority threshold. The vote in the Senate ran along party lines except for Sen. Tony Hwang, R-Fairfield, who voted in favor of it. Early voting has been controversial in Connecticut. In 2014, residents rejected what Secretary of the State Denise Merrill called a poorly worded amendment it talked about removing restrictions on absentee ballots and not early voting by a vote of 491,447 to 453,070. The new question asks, Shall the Constitution of the State be amended to permit the General Assembly to provide for early voting? Merrill said, Im glad the Senate passed early voting, however its disheartening that the majority of the Republican Senate caucus was unwilling to make voting more convenient for their constituents. This is especially true considering the overwhelming bipartisan support this amendment received in the House, just a few weeks ago. She said that early voting is a reform that is widely accepted and wildly popular across the country. From Arkansas to Wyoming, there is bipartisan consensus that early voting allows more voters to exercise their right to vote more conveniently. It is shameful that only one Republican senator was willing to put the interests of their voters ahead of perceived, yet misguided, partisan advantage. This amendment wasnt about partisanship, it was about the voters. Gov. Ned Lamont has signaled support for the proposal. Creating a system of early voting in Connecticut is a concept that is long past due, and Im glad that we are on a path to making it easier for every eligible citizen of our state to cast a ballot, he said. During the most recent statewide election, we had people waiting in line in the pouring rain, in some cases for several hours, for the opportunity to cast a ballot. In todays economy, it is not realistic to expect every citizen to be able to go to one specific location during a certain set of hours on a Tuesday to cast their ballot. If we truly want more people to be active participants in our democracy, there are many more things we can be doing to make it easier to vote, and early voting is one of them. 5 1 of 5 Arnold Gold / New Haven Register Show More Show Less 2 of 5 New Haven Register / Arnold Gold Show More Show Less 3 of 5 4 of 5 Arnold Gold / Hearst Connecticut Media Show More Show Less 5 of 5 Jim Fowler, known for his role as the longtime host of the wildlife television series Wild Kingdom, died Wednesday at his home in Connecticut at the age of 87. Fowler started with the show as a co-host with Marlon Perkins, then took over as host when Perkins retired in 1985. On the show, Fowler would make the necessary moves to get close to wildlife even if it meant wading into crocodile-infested waters. MILFORD A judge has overturned the Shelton Planning & Zoning Commissions rejection of a self-described speakeasy off Bridgeport Avenue. The planned business had been the subject of fervent online speculation since becoming public in October 2017. An initial description including references to burlesque performances riled residents who worried that it would be a gentlemens club by another name. An application from the business owner, Randi-Lee England, said the bar, to be called Hush, would operate as a speakeasy a trend in the bar business hearkening back to the days of Prohibition in the Roaring 20s complete with waitresses dressed as flapper girls. In court documents, the commission cited the secretive nature of the business to support its unanimous December 2017 rejection of a certificate of zoning compliance for it to open on the first floor of 303 Old Bridgeport Ave., under the former location of Hunan Pan restaurant. But in a 12-page decision issued Wednesday, Judge Trial Referee Arthur Hiller said the commissions decision wasnt rooted in its own regulations. The commission has failed to identify any specific requirements contained in the regulations that directly and/or indirectly apply to the plaintiffs proposed use of the property, Hiller wrote. The commission, therefore, erred in finding that a speakeasy theme cafe was not a permitted use because there was not substantial evidence in the record to reach this conclusion, the judge went on. Accordingly, the commissions denial of the plaintiffs application for a certificate of zoning compliance was in error and is hereby reversed. The commission had based its ruling in part on a letter from the citys fire marshal saying the business didnt have adequate parking. But the judge said the zoners didnt provide a formula for determining how much parking the business would need and ordered the commission to do so. The court is not persuaded by the commissions argument that the fire marshals decision was guided by the regulations, Hiller wrote. Its unclear whether the commission will seek to appeal the judges decision. The commissions lawyer, Francis Teodosio, declined to comment on the ruling Thursday, saying he needed to consult with the commission first. Virginia Harger, chairwoman of the commission, said she was disappointed with the decision, but that the next steps remain to be seen. I expect the entire PZC will meet with corporation counsel to review the judges findings and to determine a future course of action, she said. Jonathan Klein, a lawyer representing England, said he was pleased with the judges decision. Im hoping that at this point the city will be willing to work out the parking requirements and give us the certificate of zoning compliance so we can move ahead, Klein said. During a hearing in the case in March, England said she was paying $2,500 a month rent for the space. In court documents, she said she had sunk more than $100,000 into the business. City officials initially signed off on the business which allowed it to obtain a liquor license before the public outcry. The PZCs 2017 rejection was applauded by a standing room only crowd, many of whom had signed a petition of more than 240 names opposing the business. England appealed the decision in January 2018, saying the commissions decision was arbitrary, and that the public outcry had led the commissions members to make up their minds before hearing the evidence. It is transparently evident that the outcome of the hearing was predetermined, Klein wrote. The fix was in. Ned Gerard / Hearst Connecticut Media BRIDGEPORT A New York man has been charged with sexually assaulted a woman in her home here. Boris Bonilla, 33, of Queens, N.Y., was charged Wednesday with second-degree sexual assault. He was held in lieu of $75,000 bond. WASHINGTON The partisan divide in Congress over paid family leave was in sharp focus at a House Ways and Means Committee hearing Wednesday where Democrats offered support for a tax-funded federal requirement while Republicans suggested tax incentives to encourage employers to provide such a benefit. House Democrats, who now hold the majority, are considering legislation that would build on the Clinton-era Family and Medical Leave Act that now allows employees to take up to three months of unpaid leave for the birth of a child or to care for a sick family member without fear of losing their job. Legislation offered by Representative Rosa DeLauro would provide paid family leave through a new employer-employee tax. California already has a state version of the bill and Washington state is setting up a similar program too. Connecticut is debating a paid Family and Medical Leave bill that would require employees to contribute 0.5 percent of their paycheck to the fund. Workers would then be allowed to access a portion of their wages for up to 12 weeks of leave. Every business in Connecticut with as few as one employee would be required to participate, and solo business owners would also be allowed to opt into the system. Nearly all workers will need to take time away from work at some point to deal with serious personal health issues, to care for a family member, or to welcome a new child. But for middle-class workers, especially those on the lower end of the pay scale, taking unpaid leave makes it impossible to make ends meet, Ways and Means Committee Chairman Richard Neal of Massachusetts said. Neal noted that the Family and Medical Leave Act has been used more than 200 million times since it became law over 25 years ago without much complaint from businesses. But, he said, many families miss out because they cant afford to take time off without pay. While Congress has not addressed the issue, Neal said states are doing so. Massachusetts will be the sixth when its program launches in 2021. Representative Kenny Marchant of Texas said he supports paid family leave but prefers that Congress provide tax incentives to encourage employers to offer the benefit rather than establish a costly new federal program based on a payroll tax. Many businesses are leaving these utopian states and relocating in states that do not have that kind of taxation, he said. Rachel Greszler, a research fellow at the conservative Heritage Foundation, was a witness at the hearing. She argued against establishing a comprehensive federal program for paid leave saying the costs would fall heavily on low-income wage earners, and that a federal program would crowd out employer- and state-based family programs that are emerging. She noted research that has found that two thirds of employees who take leave were paid by their employers through personal days, paid time off benefits or temporary disability insurance benefits. To pay for DeLauros proposal, she said, it would require a payroll tax of between 0.4 percent and 2.9 percent, or between $120 and $870 more in taxes for someone making $30,000 a year. Pronita Gupta of the Center for Law and Social Policy was a witness at the hearing. She pointed to studies that have found the majority of African-American, Latino and low-wage employees cannot afford to take unpaid leave. Relying on tax incentives or state strategies is not enough. It leaves huge gaps in access, she said. Gupta noted that there are cost benefits to paid family leave. A California study found the program has led to an 11 percent decline among the elderly in nursing home use. Representative John Larson proudly noted that Connecticut was the first state to pass a family and medical leave law, singling out efforts by former Senator Chris Dodd and DeLauro, who was Dodds chief of staff when the law was considered. Larson was in the state Senate when Connecticut adopted its law. Much of the impetus for the family leave law, he said, was in response to Yale University Professor Edward Ziegler, whom he described as a champion for early childhood care. As to the current debate, Larson cautioned against calls for flexibility saying that is often a code word for doing nothing. He also spoke out against an alternative plan Senate Republicans have offered that would allow individuals to tap into future Social Security benefits to pay for family leave. Talk about robbing Peter to pay Paul. Robbing from one generation to pay for another, he scoffed. SYDNEY - When Australia's prime minister appointed lawyer Penny Ying-Yen Wong as its main envoy on climate issues 12 years ago, the backlash was stinging. Social conservatives objected to Wong, one of the few openly lesbian political figures in Australia. Some nationalists found fault with Malaysia-born Wong over her immigrant background in a white-majority country not always at ease in its Asian neighborhood. Now Wong could be poised to become the face of Australian diplomacy on the global stage. Australia's Labor Party has a strong lead going into national elections on May 18, many polls show. Riding the wave is Wong, who holds the party's foreign affairs portfolio and is one of its rising stars in an election that has challenged traditional notions of identity and inclusion. The election also tests the political patience of Australians, who are seeking some stability after scandals and infighting have brought five prime ministers in the past five years. A Labor victory would make Wong, 50, a top candidate to become foreign minister and inherit a host of complicated issues, including how to deal with growing Chinese influence and investment in Australia. Last week, Wong was already looking ahead to her possible role as Australia's top diplomat under a Labor government led by Bill Shorten, a former union organizer. Wong said her first official trip overseas would not be to longtime allies New Zealand or the United States, but instead to Australia's Southeast Asian partners, Indonesia and Malaysia. "It says something about the diverse, multicultural, confident nation that we are," Wong told the Lowy Institute, a foreign policy think tank, about her own political success. "That is important in the region because it goes to our perception in the region. It goes to the narrative about what it means to be Australian, Australian identity and Australia's place in the world," she added. Wong, who moved to Australia when she was 8, has tried to deflect interest in her background. But she has talked about growing up feeling like an outsider in her home city of Adelaide, where she lived with her single mother and won a scholarship to an expensive private school. When a far-right Australian politician came to prominence in 1996 by opposing immigrants from Asia, Wong's father called her from Malaysia and asked if she would be forced to leave, she said in a speech last week in Sydney. Polls show Wong to be one of the most admired politicians in the country. But in 2007, when then-prime minister Kevin Rudd appointed her to negotiate global climate change agreements, it was seen as a daring move given her ethnicity and sexual orientation. "Australia in 2007 was still a relatively conservative place," Rudd said in a telephone interview from Singapore. "A lot of people criticized me over the appointment for conservative social reasons. My attitude was they could take a running jump." In a country where very few politicians are openly gay, Wong's relationship with Sophie Allouache, a public servant, has been credited with helping increase acceptance of homosexuality in public life. Wong and Allouache have two young daughters, Hannah and Alexandra. Wong opposed same-sex marriage a decade ago, in line with her party's position. She later changed position and voted for legalization in 2017. More than 50 percent of Australians say their ancestry is English, Irish or Scottish, according to the most recent census. No Australian of Asian heritage has ever held one of the most senior offices of state, even though people with Chinese ancestry now account for more than 5 percent of the Australian population. In a country used to rough-and-tumble politics, this election has stood out for its racist undertones. Last week, a television station broadcast video of Steve Dickson, a leader of the anti-Muslim One Nation Party, at a Washington-area strip club in 2018 stuffing money into a stripper's underwear while comparing the sexual performance of women by their skin color. After the video aired, Dickson resigned as his party's state leader. Another candidate for the ruling center-right Liberal Party refused to withdraw from the election when media outlets revealed posts from her Facebook account critical of Muslim refugees and pro-Muslim feminists in the United States. "Round them up Donald," Jessica Whelan wrote in one post, apparently referring to President Trump. Whelan initially said the account had been hacked, a claim endorsed by her party leader, Prime Minister Scott Morrison. The following day she admitted some of her controversial posts were genuine and was dumped by her own party. She is now contesting her local district in Tasmania state as an independent. The Labor Party has had similar problems. Two weeks ago, it emerged that one of its Senate candidates had posted a video of a notorious British conspiracy theorist, David Icke, who argues that an alien race of giant lizards has secretly taken control of the earth. Wayne Kurnoth stood aside as a candidate, although his name has already been printed on ballot papers and can't be removed under the electoral rules. Amid the furor surrounding potential impeachment of Donald Trump, the unethical and likely illegal conduct of Attorney General William Barr appears to be lost in a sea of flotsam, accusations and counter-accusations. There is no question that Trump has committed high crimes and other misdemeanors to justify articles of impeachment. Unfortunately to be successfully removed from office requires a two-thirds vote of the United States Senate, which would leave those in favor short by many votes. Some will argue that it is the principle that counts. Others point out the political facts of life: Trump would call it a win if not actually being removed, allowing him to then say the factual allegations against him are fake news. Attorney General William Barr is subject to the same remedy as is Trump impeachment. The result would be the same not enough Republicans in the Senate would stand up and be counted. However, the fact that Barr is an attorney subjects him to Bar Association overview and it is in that arena that a complaint should be filed with the District of Columbia Bar Associations Grievance Committee. I am certain that our U.S. Sens. Richard Blumenthal and Chris Murphy would be happy to lead that charge. Barrs client is not Donald Trump. Rather, as attorney general and head of the Department of Justice, he represents all of us. Barr has lied to the American people, his clients, and has shamefully attempted to act as a defense attorney for Trump. He has openly and notoriously done the following: (1) inappropriately acted as Trumps spokesperson; (2) improperly delivered the Mueller report to the president long in advance of public disclosure; (3) redacted what are likely critical parts of the Mueller report that should be seen and judged by the public; (4) put a spin on the Mueller report that is both fabrication and an outright lie; (5) tried to sell us the notion that the report is the end of any inquiry versus the fact that it is really just the beginning; (6) tried to get us to believe the Mueller report cleared the president versus what Mueller actually said: . . . Congress may apply the obstruction laws to the presidents corrupt exercise of the powers of office ... no person is above the law. The Connecticut Rules of Practice, basically the same as those of the American Bar Association Rules of Ethics, say the following: a lawyer shall not represent a client if the representation involves a concurrent conflict of interest; and, a lawyer shall not represent a client or, where representation has commenced, shall withdraw from the representation of a client if (1) the representation will result in violation of the Rules of Professional Conduct or other law. The rules also state that a lawyer shall not bring or defend an issue therein, unless there is a basis in law and fact for doing so that is not frivolous, which includes a good faith argument for an extension, modification or reversal of existing law. As well, it says, a lawyer shall not knowingly make false statement of fact or law to a tribunal or fail to correct a false statement of material fact or law previously made to the tribunal by the lawyer and, finally, in the course of representing a client a lawyer shall not knowingly make a false statement of material fact or law to a third person. It is easy to see that Barr has breached every one of those rules. There should be a grievance filed against him for trying to hoodwink his clients, namely, all of us. A successful grievance should result in disbarment. Trump lawyers, before Barr, ended up being disbarred Roy Cohn and Michael Cohen are two that come to mind. There may be others. Barr should have his name added to the list of those that have pushed too far in support of Trump. Edward L. Marcus is former chairman of the Democratic State Central Committee in Connecticut and former state Senate majority leader. HARTFORD Premature celebrations, pointed rebukes and hurt feelings left bad tastes in the mouths of some House members Thursday after a sometimes emotional and tense 14-hour debate to raise the minimum wage to $15 an hour by the spring of 2023. The starkly partisan discussion, which culminated in a full 24-hour session of the House, left lawmakers hollow-eyed and physically exhausted when they finally fled the Capitol after noon. The debate raged overnight as Democrats rejected eight Republican attempts to change or kill the legislation, which passed 85-59 with six absent. Only one Democrat, Rep. Joseph Boyd of a district that includes Pomfret, voted against the bill. The protracted debate pitted mostly urban Democrats against suburban and rural lawmakers, whom Speaker of the House Joe Aresimowicz later called the idiocracy of the minority. For hour upon hour, through the night, into the predawn, through the morning rush hour and finally into lunch time, they argued over class distinctions, generational poverty, the lingering effects of the Great Recession, stagnant wages, and the role of the General Assembly in the states economic future for hour upon hour. The bill was introduced at about 10 p.m. on Wednesday and the final vote occurred just after noon Thursday. Democrats accused Republicans or prolonging the debate by reiterating questions and taking advantage of the House tradition of unlimited debate. Republicans warned that nonprofit social service agencies and workers with intellectual handicaps would become victims, and that the bill would provoke more automation. They warned that the bills automatic future raises after 2023, depending on a national index on employment compensations, was particularly onerous. Some GOP lawmakers did not like the way they were treated during the debate, and charged thast they were mocked during a debate that, if Democrats could stay together, was inevitably going to won by the majority. As most of the state slept, Democrats estimated during the rare all-nighter that the pay hike would help 332,000 state workers. Republicans charged that it would hurt an already fragile economy, and put more pressure on business owners, and lead to layoffs, shifts to automated ordering and checkouts, closures and empty storefronts. House Majority Leader Matt Ritter deferred his usual summing-up spot just before the vote, to Rep. Robyn Porter, who advocated the legislation for years, introduced the bill Wednesday and led the debate. She warned that the state, like the country, seems polarized. Where I come from, the struggle is real, said Porter, D-New Haven, a single mother who worked multiple jobs to raise her two children. I struggled to make ends meet. Thats my experience. Thats what I lived. Ive lived a life of sink-or-swim. She said that 4,300 people in her district would benefit from the higher pay. Our families need to have a chance, said Rep. Toni Walker, D-New Haven, who shortly before the final vote chastised Republicans for misrepresenting peoples beliefs and thoughts during the historic debate. She called the bill a compromise. But Rep. Vincent Candelora, R-North Branford, disagreed. This was not a compromise between Republicans and Democrats, he said. It was a compromise between Democrats. There will be less people working, warned House Minority Leader Themis Klarides just after dawn in the half-filled chamber, while rank-and-file members stole cat naps. How is that helping people? I dont understand it. It doesnt make any sense to me. We need to take care of the people of this state. We need to take care of the workers of this state. But forcing one mandate after another, and this is not the beginning o the problem. This is the continuation of what weve been doing in this state to businesses and workers. Theres a reason why this state is nearly last in coming back from the recession. Shortly after 9 a.m., a rumpled Rep. Tom ODea, R-New Canaan, offered an amendment on young workers. If you do that you are going to lose jobs, ODea predicted. We actually have less jobs now than we had in 2004. The state of Connecticut has lost competitiveness. Theres no dispute. I am absolutely thinking about people at the bottom of the pay scale. It also went down in a partisan 80-54 with 16 missing. Just after dawn, Rep. Josh Elliott, D-Hamden, the owner of two natural food stores, said that more money for workers means higher spending for people who immediately put it back into the economy. He predicted that more discretionary income means his stores will sell more. What happens is that we increase the quality of life for a slew of people, Elliott said. Its a way for people to literally put food on the table and feel better about themselves. At at least two points in the early morning, Porter, who as co-chairman of the Labor Committee was the proponent of the bill, refused to answer questions from Republicans, in a sharp break from protocol. The higher wage is one of the centerpieces of Gov. Ned Lamonts young administration along with highway tolls, recreational marijuana, and paid family leave and the one most likely to win approval this legislative session, which ends at midnight June 5. The bill heads next to the Senate. Just after the final vote, Lamont praised the bill. Raising the minimum wage will help lift families out of poverty, combat persistent pay disparities between races and genders, and stimulate our economy, Lamont said in a statement. This compromise represents a fair, gradual increase that will improve the lives of working families in our state who struggle to pay for child care, afford tuition, put food on the table, pay the mortgage, or cover the rent. I applaud the action taken by the House today and urge the Senate to swiftly approve as well so that I may proudly sign this into law. Democratic Senate leaders also praised the House action. The bill would raise the current $10.10 wage to $11 on October 1 this year; $12 a year later; $13 on August 1, 2021; $14 on July 1, 2022; and $15 on June 1, 2023. Future wage increase would be automatically aligned with a national employment cost index. This bill is putting a further nail in the coffin of small business, said Rep. Richard A. Smith, R-New Fairfield, stressing that he was offended late Wednesday night when several Democrats hugged each other and cheered on the House floor when the legislation reached the floor. To have the cheering and mocking is a little offensive to me, Smith said. Weve been begged by businesses in our districts not to do this, said Rep. Fred Camillo, R-Greenwich, an 11-year House veteran. I think we could work a little more bipartisanly for the state of Connecticut, said Rep. Brenda Kupchick, R-Fairfield. Sixteen- and 17-year-olds would receive 85 percent of those wages for summer jobs. After 90 days, they would be paid the full minimum wage. Bartenders would be paid the current $8.23 an hour, while servers and other restaurant workers would make the same $6.38, in what Porter described as a compromise that she opposes because she wanted them to make more money. Employers would be required to contribute money to those tipped employees when their wages fall below those hourly thresholds. Despite Speaker of the House Joe Aresimowiczs admonitions that no celebrations be held in the House chamber after the final vote was announced, cheers erupted from the Democratic rank-and-file. After the vote, Aresimowicz, D-Berlin, said he was very proud that this bill passed, but the debate was also historic in a negative way, citing the idiocracy of the minority repeatedly asking the same questions to Porter. What took place in that chamber over 14 hours didnt need to happen, he said, adding that the debate on the repeal of the death penalty in 2012 only took eight hours. Weve had debates on this House floor that havent broken the 10-hour barrier, he said. But the two that have, paid family and medical leave and minimum wage: were talking about helping workers out, doing things to make our communities better, giving those access to the possibility of a better life. And thats where we draw the line in the sand? Klarides, said the minimum-wage debate represented a shoddy way to write a bill and her caucus had to repeat questions because they did not receive acceptable answers. That is what we call the arrogance of the majority, she said. When you know you have the numbers to pass something, you dont have to have all the answers. Its the notion weve seen with tolls: Oh we dont have to give you specifics. Lets just pass the bill sign it, put it into law and then well figure it out later. That is not how you introduce legislation. House Majority Leader Matt Ritter, D-Hartford, said this vote shows the Democrats represent blue collar workers. There was this argument after the election about who represents blue collar workers and blue collar voters, not just in the inner city but in Naugatuck Valley and Eastern Connecticut, where you have poverty, he said. Today was a big vote to test that. Staff writer Emilie Munson contributed to this report. HARTFORD An epic, starkly partisan debate on raising the minimum wage to $15 over four years raged all night Wednesday and past the Thursday morning rush hour Thursday as majority Democrats in the state House of Representatives turned back eight Republican attempts to change or kill the legislation. As most of the state slept, Democrats claimed during the rare all-nighter that the pay hike would help 332,000 state workers. Republicans charged that it would hurt an already fragile economy, and put more pressure on business owners. There will be less people working, said House Minority Leader Themis Klarides just after dawn in the half-filled chamber, while rank-and-file members stole cat naps. How is that helping people? I dont understand it. It doesnt make any sense to me. We need to take care of the people of this state. We need to take care of the workers of this state. But forcing one mandate after another, and this is not the beginning o the problem. This is the continuationof what weve been doing in this state to businesses and workers. Theres a reason why this state is nearly last in coming back from the recession. At 6:04, as bleary-eyed lawmakers staggered into the House chamber yet again, yet another Republican amendment was defeated 83-58 with nine absent, nearly identical to the partisan divide that greeted the first test vote just after 10 oclock Wednesday night. An hour later, a sixth amendment to the bill, aimed at exempting municipalities from the minimum wage requirements, was introduced by first-term Rep. Joe Zullo, R-East Haven. At about 7:35 it was defeated 83-56 with 11 absent. At 8:20, a seventh amendment that would exempt farm workers from the new wages was submitted and quickly subdued by Democrats, 75-56 with 19 missing. Shortly after 9, Rep. Tom ODea, R-New Canaan, offered another amendment on young workers. It also went down in a partisan 80-54 with 16 missing. The higher wage is one of the centerpieces of Gov. Ned Lamonts young administration - along with highway tolls, recreational marijuana, and paid family leave - and the one most likely to win approval this legislative session, which ends at midnight June 5. Rep. Robyn Porter, D-New Haven, co-chairman of the Labor Committee, brought the bill to the House floor shortly after 10. This has been a long time coming, said Porter, a single mother who worked multiple jobs to raise her kids. The amended proposal would raise the current $10.10 wage to $11 on October 1 this year; $12 a year later; $13 on August 1, 2021; $14 on July 1, 2022; and $15 on June 1, 2023. Future wage increase would be automatically aligned with a national employment cost index. In an early test vote, the bill passed along strict party lines 84-59 with seven absent. Second-term Rep. Joe Polletta, R-Watertown, ranking member of the Labor Committee, lambasted the bill. Not one business advocacy group is in favor of this legislation, who works in a family owned electrical business. The fact of the matter is this state is not doing great. It really costs the employee something like $25 an hour. Polletta also attacked the potential automatic pay hikes in the future. How irresponsible is it for us to vote for something that ties the hands of this body in the future, Polletta charged. That is concerning to me. He said that higher wages would mean negative effects on local town and city budgets. Democratic leaders expected the bill to pass after several hours of debate. Speaker of the House Joe Aresimowicz called for a closed-door Democratic caucus at 8:30 p.m. to discuss possible changes, including the proposed multi-year phase-in, tip credits for restaurant and bar employees, and possible safety valves to postpone increases if the state slides back into recession. Under the pending bill, more than 320,000 low-earners would get pay raises. Democrats said it would be a big step toward giving Connecticuts workers a living wage in a high-cost state, while Republicans charged that it would stifle business and lead to job cuts by employers confronting higher operating costs. Stuck in the middle may be social-service workers such as nursing home workers, who havent received raises in years, but whose business owners are already operating on the margins of profitability. Sixteen- and 17-year-olds would receive 85 percent of those wages for summer jobs. After 90 days, they would be paid the full minimum wage. Bartenders would be paid the current $8.23 an hour, while servers and other restaurant workers would make the same $6.38, in what Porter described as a compromise that she opposes because she wanted them to make more money. Employers would be required to contribute money to those tipped employees when their wages fall below those hourly thresholds. I fought tooth and nail for tipped-wage workers, Porter told reporters earlier in the date. I feel that if were going to raise wages in the state of Connecticut, that should include all workers. Porter said that higher pay would mean better morale and higher productivity in the workplace. People will be spending more money because were putting more disposable income into the pockets of the people wholl spend it, she told reporters during a morning news conference with Aresimowicz and House Majority Leader Matt Ritter. If youre talking about people on the lower-wage income area, they spend whatever money comes in, Aresimowicz said. That money is going directly back out into the economy. We really do believe that this minimum wage is going to have a positive effect on the economy, especially in the area of small business. House Minority Leader Themis Klarides, who opposes the higher wages, warned that it could cripple businesses that are just making ends meet under current pay levels. She said the section on bartenders and servers was a crucial improvement, but overall the bill remains problematic. Its not that we dont want people to make more money or help people live and take care of themselves, but its 2019, she said. There has been every anti-business bill known to man in this state. We see businesses closing every day. Making businesses pay that much more to people is going to make it worse. Unfortunately, what people dont understand is its not going to be that people are going to get paid more money, it that theres going to be less jobs. kdixon@ctpost.com Twitter: @KenDixonCT Young credit union professionals during one of CUNA's advocacy training sessions last year at Credit Union House. CUNA will conduct its third annual Young Professionals Advocacy training in September, a full-day program teaching the benefits of advocacy, how to build strong relationships with members of Congress and best practices for in-district and Capitol Hill meetings. Registration is currently open for sessions on Sept. 9 and Sept. 23 in Washington, D.C. and is limited to 25 individuals per session. The program will include outside speakers, a panel of Congressional staffers, updates from CUNA and league personnel and will conclude with an evening reception. Young professionals are the future of the credit union movement and we need to stress the importance of advocacy early in their careers, said Adam Engelman, CUNAs director of federal grassroots. The program is both educational and interactive. Attendees will leave with the knowledge and tools to become better advocates for the credit union movement. As a Millennial employee at a financial branding and marketing agency, I see institutions constantly searching for more customers my age. Theres a great deal of targeted marketing happening: financial institutions use tactics that reach out to Millennials who are using certain mobile apps, visiting physical locations, or searching for answers online. The personalization of financial marketing, banking apps, and marketing technology is advancing rapidly, but many institutions are still struggling to replenish their aging customer base. Its not enough to simply get your target audience to your website, social media page, or branch. What a visitor sees when they first land is of vital importance. After all, what good is your SEM budget if all it does is route your target audience to content thats unreadable and cant be digested? If you want Millennials, you must communicate at our level; plenty of other businesses already are (like Mint and Venmo), and we flock to them. Great marketing strategies can be created, but if you refuse to cut jargon and increase the readability of your content, winning over younger customers wont be an easy feat. By making content more readable, financial marketers can earn the trust of Millennials and increase financial literacy among younger audiences. Millennials harbor suspicions about the financial industry (we remember 2008, too!), and the scandals at huge financial institutions during the Great Recession did little to improve the image of banking behemoths (though we see you trying, Wells Fargo). To try and enhance their approachability, several big financial institutions (Bank of America, Citi, and Chase) have worked to increase readability and decrease length of disclosure documents in particular, cutting them down from 69 pages (the median length of checking account disclosure statements!) to just one or two, and writing them in plain language. Compliance departments may insist on extensive and thorough disclosures, but financial marketers should keep in mind that most American adultsnot just Millennialsread at a 7th or 8th grade level. Writing at or under this grade of reading is ideal; both Umpqua Bank and Washington Federals web communications, when recently analyzed, came in at a 6th grade level. Writing at too high of a reading level may make you feel smart, but it confuses your audience. If the goal is to assist customers in making better financial decisions, your organization would do well to help elevate our understanding, not hinder it. Millennials want to know more, and we have good reason to learn about our personal finances. A study at the University of Rhode Island about financial literacy across age groups noted that the current financial education movement has been motivated by the weakening of a government-managed economic safety net (scary!). This puts more responsibility on individuals (e.g. Millennials and Gen Z) to manage their own long-term economic security (e.g. retirement). This study found that financial literacy and capability was linked to age; younger people are lacking in financial education and need clear communication to make informed decisions. Millennials know that we should worry about long-term economic security, and that retirement is going to be different (read: impossible) for us than it is for our parents. This area of genuine financial education seems ripe for the taking, and many community banks and credit unions have loads of information to help their customers. So why arent Millennials grabbing onto this with confidence? While we are motivated to increase our financial literacy, Millennials dont have time to care about what we dont understand, and credit union literature is full of complicated information, huge blocks of text, and asterisks leading to novel-length disclosures. Confusing financial jargonacronyms (like LOC, OLB, RDC, APR, LTV) and phrases truly meant for insiders or experienced investors is misleading and not for our benefit of understanding. Often, financial marketers dont even realize the words they use are confusing. Millennials polled in a survey about retirement communication considered common finance industry wordscontribution, allocation, rollover, and vehicleto be confusing jargon, as they have familiar everyday meanings as well as financial ones. This doesnt mean that we need elaborate definitions of every four syllable word on your website. Before you add paragraphs to paragraphs, keep in mind that most Millennials only skim webpages; if its un-skimmable, we tend to hit the back button and scroll further down for a more digestible version of the same content. More often than not, Millennials are also looking things up on a mobile screen. Concise content stands out on mobile, while long paragraphs disappear. Many credit unions list increasing financial literacy among customers as a core focus. But the disconnect between having this goal and carrying it out is very real. How should financial institutions mind this gap and increase readability and cut jargon to help customers become more financially literate? Heres a quick list*: Keep it short: simple sentences communicate more effectively than complex ones. How would that 26-word sentence look on a phone screen? Avoid jargon . Remember, jargon is only appropriate when communicating with other experts in your field, and it wont make you sound smarter to Millennials with no serious background in banking. Write for the customers you want , not your internal marketing team. This doesnt mean you should talk down to consumers, but it does mean being to-the-point. Millennials prefer to read something honest rather than something that requires a law degree. Use visuals. Keep it readable (i.e. organize your text with headings, subheadings, numbers, bullet points, etc. to break up copy in short paragraphs) Keep it fresh ! Not only will this enhance your placement in Googles search results, but updated pages will show younger customers that: Youre still open, and Youre keeping up with the fast changes in your industry. Remember, Millennials dont have a ton of positive financial experience yet; were suspicious, and while we crave information, we also value time and efficiency. By increasing readability and cutting jargon from content, credit unions can increase their customer base and financial literacy across younger audiences. *Shoutout to all the other millennials out there. The quick bullet list at the end of this post was created specifically for your quick scan. Linked articles: https://www.investors.com/news/management/financial-advisor-briefing/my-price-is-right-what-millennials-want-from-financial-services/ https://thefinancialbrand.com/25393/simple-checking-account-disclosures/ https://web.uri.edu/business/files/AgeAndFinancialCapability.pdf STORY LINK Pound South African Rand (GBP/ZAR) Exchange Rate Dips Following SA Election South African Rand (ZAR) Buoyed Following General Election Pound (GBP) Muted as Political Uncertainties Weigh GBP/ZAR Exchange Rate Forecast: Will a Jump in UK GDP Prompt Sterling to Rally? Like this piece? Please share with your friends and colleagues: The South African Rand (ZAR) ticked higher against the Pound (GBP) on Thursday as the dust settled on South Africas 2019 elections.While votes are still be counted, with full resulted expected on Saturday, early counts put the ruling ANC party on track to win about 56% of the vote, a slide from the 62% it claimed in the 2014 election.However this still leaves it well ahead of its closes opposition, the Democratic Alliance who look to claim around 25% of the vote.RMB analyst Nema Ramkhelawan-Bhana suggests:Its too early to tell how the domestic market has interpreted the initial results. The Rands apparent outperformance against a basket of EM currencies, despite concerns over the fluidity of US-Sino trade talks, could be reinforced if the consensus expectation for the ruling party plays out and the ANC secures 57 percent-58.5 percent of the national vote.Having held power since apartheid ended in 1994, the ANC has been plagued by corruption scandals in recent years, something that has greatly eroded support for the party.ZAR investors will be hopeful that this weeks election victory will be a turning point for the ANC, and allow President Cyril Ramaphosa to embark on an ambitious programme to stimulate South Africas ailing economy.Meanwhile movement in the Pound (GBP) remains limited today as Brexit and political uncertainty in the UK continues to dampen appetite for Sterling.This comes as cross-party talks between the government and Labour continue to stall, with Labour Leader Jeremy Corbyn suggesting that it is difficult negotiating with a disintegrating government.Markets have grown increasingly frustrated by the lack of progress in cross-party talks, with no signs that either side has been willing to compromise with one another.This has not been helped by the launch of Labours EU election campaign today either, with the party continuing to make its position on Brexit vague.Corbyn at the launch: Its said that Labour is trying to offer something to everyone over Brexit. I make no apology for that.Labour will never be the party of the 52 per cent or of the 48 per cent. We are the part of the great majority who reject the politics of smear and scapegoating.This will disappoint GBP investors who were hoping for the party to offer some greater clarity on whether it would support a second referendum, with the manifesto only including the option of a public vote if a sensible Brexit deal is not agreed or a general election not called.Looking ahead, the Pound South African Rand (GBP/ZAR) exchange rate may seek to rally at the end of this weeks session, following the preliminary reading for UK growth in the first quarter of 2019.Economists forecast that Fridays GDP print will report that domestic growth surged from 0.2% to 0.5% through the first three months of the year, likely helping the Pound to rally from the weeks lows.However, any gains in Sterling could be tempered somewhat by the accompanying investment report, with analysts expecting domestic business investment to have continued to contract as ongoing Brexit uncertainty weakened confidence in the UK.Meanwhile, with South Africa having exhausted its data for week, the focus for ZAR investors is likely to be on the US-China trade talks currently underway in Washington.This could result in some heavy losses in the Rand in the tail end of the week, with the emerging market currency likely to shunned by markets if the talks fail to prevent the US from hike tariffs on Chinese exports from 10% to 25%, sparking fears of a full-blown trade war between the US and China. International Money Transfer? Ask our resident FX expert a money transfer question or try John's new, free, no-obligation personal service! ,where he helps every step of the way, ensuring you get the best exchange rates on your currency requirements. TAGS: Pound Rand Forecasts Our own Bruce Siwy and Eric Kieta talk about their true-crime cases in Return To View: The Roundtable South Africa: SA a prime example for Africa South Africas 2019 National and Provincial Elections are a prime example of how African countries can carry out future elections. Speaking to SAnews, Zimbabwean observer who forms part of the African Union (AU), Lewis Matutu, described voting in South Africas sixth national and provincial elections as historical. We moved around different polling stations yesterday, witnessing people voting freely. We also saw people from different political parties mingling. This is a sign that the South African democracy is maturing, he said on Thursday. Matutu, who hails from Zimbabwe, added that South Africa is making the continent proud. There were approximately 26.7 million registered voters scheduled to vote in yesterdays elections. Matutu, who spoke to SAnews, at the national Results Operations Centre (ROC) in Pretoria, praised the Electoral Commission (IEC) for administering the elections. He was also impressed by the number of young people who participated in the voting process. The IEC managed to accommodate a majority of young people in the election process itself. Ive seen many young people being presiding officers and elections officers [and that is] a sign that the South African government values young people and they understand that they are the future of this country, he said. Matatus delegation on Wednesday visited polling stations in Tembisa and greater Johannesburg as polls opened at 7am and were scheduled to close at 9pm. Among the observers spotted at the ROC included former Tanzanian President Jakaya Kikwete who was taken on a tour of operations at the centre. The ROC continues to be a hive of activity as vote counting continues. The latest data on the leader board put vote counting at 5 651 438 as at 1:06pm. - SAnews.gov.za This story has been published on: 2019-05-09. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. Are you lost in the wild? Sorry, but the page you're looking for has not been found Try checking the URL for errors, goto home or try to search below. Dear Editor: Im not a lawyer, but if it walks like a duck and quacks like a duck, Trump should be very concerned. Just what we have seen in public seems to support obstruction of justice and collusion. The Mueller report shines a light on some very disturbing behavior by Trump and his ilk: * Trump urged former Attorney General Jeff Sessions to unrecuse himself from the Russian investigation. * Attorney General William Barr, who should be the nations top law-enforcement officer for the people, not the presidents Roy Cohn, chose to misrepresent the Mueller report in Trumps favor, setting a dangerous precedent. * According to the Mueller report, Russia DID interfere with the 2016 election, but Barr chose to say they just attempted. Again, mischaracterizing the report. * Trump bloviated about being willing to be interviewed by the Mueller team, but never did for fear that he would be caught in one of his 10,000 lies. His written responses to Muellers questions had over 30 instances of I dont recall. This from a man who boasts about an amazing memory. * Trump ordered Don McGahn, White House counsel, to fire Robert Mueller to stop the investigation. McGahn refused. The intent is glaring. * Paul Manafort gave internal polling data to the Russians. * Donald Trump Jr. said he would love dirt on Hillary Clinton offered by the Russians. * Trump dangled pardons and threatened witnesses to discourage testifying. How can he take a victory lap when he said every day for two years that the Mueller report is witch hunt? As they say, it aint over til the fat lady sings. Nancy Guski Red Hook, N.Y. WEST CHESTER A disbarred attorney from Downingtown has been found guilty of multiple counts of forgery and theft after a two-week long trial in Common Pleas Court in which she was accused of taking money from clients either by forging checks from estates she had been hired to represent or by charging clients for work she never performed. Kristi Ann Fredericks, 43, who was first charged in March 2017, now faces sentencing by Judge William P. Mahon, who presided over the lengthy trial. The severity of the crimes she was found guilty of committing essentially stealing money from deceased people as well as the number of victims nine in all make it likely that Fredericks sentencing guidelines will call for her to serve time in prison. The jury returned with their verdict on Wednesday afternoon after deliberating for more than 10 hours over two days. Because of the number of charges and counts she was accused of, 51 in all, it took the jury foreman about 20 minutes to read the verdict slip, observers said. Fredericks was found guilty of nine counts of forgery, nine counts of theft by deception, seven counts of receiving stolen property, three counts of theft by failure to make required disposition of funds, two counts of theft by extortion, and two counts of tampering with records. She was also found guilty of attempted theft in two cases, as well as unauthorized practice of law, for continuing to represent a client in a Social Security matter after she had been disbarred. The jury acquitted her on several other counts of theft by unlawful taking, receiving stolen property, and forgery. The case was prosecuted by Deputy District Attorney Ronald Yen and Assistant District Attorney Tanner Jacobs. Fredericks was represented by defense attorneys Vince DiFabio and Keith DiFabio of the Paoli law firm of Platt, DiGiorgio and DiFabio. Fredericks, also known by her married name of Kristi Ann McQuillan, had offices in Malvern, King of Prussia, Coatesville, and Downingtown. She was disbarred by consent by the state Supreme Court in December 2015 after an investigation of various complaints against her by the courts Office of Disciplinary Counsel. The investigation of Fredericks by Chester County Detective Kristin Lund, which spanned six months in 2017, came at the behest of attorney Norman J. Pine of West Chester, a former prosecutor in the DAs Office. In January, he brought two former clients of Fredericks to meet with members of the DAs Office and Lund: Raymond K. Elmer, who was the executor of the estate of his father, G. Raymond Elmer of Honey Brook who died in March 2014 and Michael Howe, the executor of the estate of his mother, Vera Ahern of Downingtown. In both those cases, Fredericks allegedly took money from the estate that she was not authorized to take, $28,972 in the case of the Elmer estate and $57,000 from the Ahern estate. I think it is a good verdict, Pine said Thursday when contacted about the case at his office. I am happy that justice played out. He noted, however, sadly that Raymond Elmer died two days after testifying against Fredericks. In the other cases, Fredericks allegedly took $5,000 from Donald Peszko, a retired postal worker from Coatesville, and $6,000 from Esther Meeks of West Fallowfield. Peszko hired her to handle a pension matter with the U.S. Postal Service, and Meeks to handle a land subdivision for property in West Fallowfield. Lund said in her complaint that Fredericks did not do the work she contended she did in return for the payment of those fees. In one instance, Lund showed that Fredericks presented time sheets to Meeks showing work that she had done with West Fallowfield on a succession of Fridays. The township building, however, is not open on Fridays, Lund noted. In another matter, Fredericks represented a Virginia woman, Margaret Mullery, who was attempting to contest the will of her deceased former husband. She contended that she had been promised a painting by her ex-husband with whom she had remained friendly, but that when his will was probated she was not listed as a recipient. When she hired Fredericks in May 2015, the attorney told her the matter would likely be a simple one to handle. Mullery paid Fredericks a retainer of $5,000. In the months afterwards, Fredericks told Mullery that the attorney representing the estate, Michael Dunn, was not responding to her attempts to reach him and discuss the case. Growing frustrated at the slow pace of the matter, Mallory contacted Dunn herself. When she did, Dunn told her that he had never heard of Fredericks and had never been contacted by her. Mullery then confronted Fredericks with this and terminated her representation. After she did, she received a bill from Fredericks for $1,500, above and beyond the $5,000 she had paid. In that matter, Fredericks was found guilty of theft by deception, receiving stolen property, and tampering with records. She remains free on bail pending sentencing. Travel broadens the mind, but it can broaden other things, too. Two pies, two haggises, two whisky and lemonades and two packets of crisps, please, is the dinner order from my neighbours at the next table in the restaurant car on the Caledonian Sleeper. If an alien with even a faint grasp of cultural indicators were to beam down from Mars and hazard a guess at what was going on, it might conclude that I am on a Scottish train with Scottish people heading to Scotland for a Scottish break, and it would be entirely correct. But it is not just any old Scottish train. At Euston Station, the heart soars at the sight of the beautiful, gleaming 16-carriage train that awaits to whisk us through the night to Scotland. It is gorgeous! The front eight carriages are destined for Glasgow, while those in the rear are Edinburgh-bound; the two cities and their people travelling together but apart, on the train tracks as in life With the help of a 60 million subsidy from Scotlands government, the services giant Serco has spent 150 million relaunching the ageing sleeper service whose previous set of carriages had ploughed up and down between England and Scotland for the past 40 years. It is not before time. For decades, regular passengers like me increasingly despaired at the decrepit carriages on the sleepers, the balding carpets and the prison-like sleeping berths where every expense was spared and comfort was as thin as the duvets. Now the 75 ageing carriages have finally been replaced by a spanking new fleet which came into service this week on the Lowlander trains, which run between London and Glasgow or Edinburgh. Highlander trains to Aberdeen, Inverness and Fort William are due to get the new carriages next month. On the sleeper train, there is still drenching romance to be had if you time it right. I have breakfast as the train speeds through the beautiful border country, past fields shimmering with the pink mist of dawn, through the hill farms dotted with sheep and two old Clydesdale horses, almost skipping in the spring sunshine The trains boast the first commercial sleeper cabins to offer double beds, complete with mattresses from the Queens own supplier. Prices start at 335 one-way for single occupation of a double cabin, which suggests that the Scottish governments aim is to offer business passengers and tourists a plusher and more sophisticated return to a golden age of rail travel. Certainly, the prices dont make sense to ordinary travellers, who might find that it is cheaper and quicker to fly or drive. What can I tell you? The high-profile launch was, alas, a complete disaster. Booked in advance once meant that tickets were cheaper and there was the option of sharing a compartment with twin bunks. That is no longer the case, and the pricing system offers few bargains to travellers like me unless you want to pay 45 to sit up all night The first train from London rolled into Glasgow three hours late and blushing with shame. The journalists, dignitaries, passengers and MPs on board endured lost bookings, delays, unmade beds, water leakages and even a shortage of butter, shriek. A signal failure at Carstairs Junction, South Lanarkshire, was blamed for much of the woe. Did matters improve for my midweek journey from London to Glasgow a few days later? At Euston Station, the heart soars at the sight of the beautiful, gleaming 16-carriage train that awaits to whisk us through the night to Scotland. It is gorgeous! The front eight carriages are destined for Glasgow, while those in the rear are Edinburgh-bound; the two cities and their people travelling together but apart, on the train tracks as in life. Just as before, the train splits into two (or joins up, on the reverse journey) at Carstairs Junction, a violent shunting process that traditionally and infuriatingly wakes everyone up in the wee small hours. But not any more, as train bosses promise a smooth new transition in every way. Well, we shall see about that. At least we leave on time, just before midnight, sliding quietly out of London on the long journey north. I paid a rather gasping 270 for my First Class Solo Cabin ticket one way! which provides an ensuite toilet and shower, a sink, a little desk, space under the bed to stow your luggage and coat hooks. There is a smart plaid carpet, pleasant lighting, power and recharging points, but best of all, the whole cabin seems to be hermetically sealed from your neighbours. What utter luxury. Prices start at 335 one-way for single occupation of a double cabin, which suggests that the Scottish governments aim is to offer business passengers and tourists a plusher and more sophisticated return to a golden age of rail travel. The club car is pictured above But whats this! On a hook, there is a grotty mesh nylon bag crammed with crushed towels and a spare loo roll; like something you would be handed before going into solitary confinement at a maximum security facility. Are those towels clean, I squeak? Yes, we just havent thought of a better way of storing them, says the steward. After she has gone, I cant figure out how to use the sink tap, and have to wash my hands with bottled water before going to dinner. The dining car is smart and comfortable, but understaffed with only one waiter and a kitchen hand, making everyone a little testy. Clearly the experience is aimed at those who might be impressed with a menu that promises to celebrate Scotlands food culture with mouth-watering meals. Dishes include a traditional hand crafted pie, 7.50. Oh, what is it today, I ask, expecting something glorious and gamey, such as venison or grouse. Pork, says the waiter. He makes a circle with his hands. Its about that big with a thick crust. Instead I have the haggis, neeps and tatties (9). The tasty haggis is supplied by Cockburns of Dingwall and is actually not bad, but the vegetables are lumpy and the dish is so badly made and terribly served slumped on a plate with a splat of whisky sauce on top that it looks like an unspeakable effluence that has been ejected at speed from the Monarch of the Glen himself. In those days there were starched tablecloths, silver teapots and uniformed stewards who came around at night to knock on the cabin door to serve your complimentary nightcap Nothing is actually freshly made on site but cooked and pre-plated elsewhere in the dreary modern way, before being heated up in the trains warming ovens. Still, at least there are some genuine Scottish delicacies on board, in the form of Mackies haggis crisps (1.10), and Tunnocks teacakes (50p), hurrah. They also charge 50p for an apple at these ticket prices youd think they could find it in their hearts to give them away free, but no. Back in my cabin I snuggle under the crisp cotton sheets and lulled by the rocking of the train, fall into a deep and lovely sleep. Sleeper travel has always been expensive, but for me travelling home on the Highland line, to Perth and beyond, is more convenient than flying. Booked in advance once meant that tickets were cheaper and there was the option of sharing a compartment with twin bunks. That is no longer the case, and the pricing system offers few bargains to travellers like me unless you want to pay 45 to sit up all night. I have booked breakfast in the dining car at 6am but oversleep. At 6.10 I am woken by a female Scottish voice crackling through my ears. Hello! Hello! Jan. Thats your breakfast ready. Repeat, your breakfast is ready for you. What? Is that my mother? Mum? Whassgoinon? I had no idea they had a kitchen to cabin intercom system. But now I do. On the sleeper train, there is still drenching romance to be had if you time it right. I have breakfast as the train speeds through the beautiful border country, past fields shimmering with the pink mist of dawn, through the hill farms dotted with sheep and two old Clydesdale horses, almost skipping in the spring sunshine. The dining car is smart and comfortable, but understaffed with only one waiter and a kitchen hand, making everyone a little testy. Clearly the experience is aimed at those who might be impressed with a menu that promises to celebrate Scotlands food culture with mouth-watering meals Yet despite all the improvements, a part of me does mourn the sleepers of old. Even I can remember when dining cars had genuine kitchens staffed with real chefs, who would sizzle bacon, fry farm eggs and cook up proper breakfasts for 50 in a space the size of a telephone box. The porridge was historic and always made with water and salt, never with Sassenach cream and sugar, in the proper Scottish way. In those days there were starched tablecloths, silver teapots and uniformed stewards who came around at night to knock on the cabin door to serve your complimentary nightcap. Whisky or brandy, madam? they would say. How civilised. Still, progress means we have more comfort and less pain, give or take the loss of charm. Yes, the Carstairs shunt is more of a gentle bump that really is progress and you can even have a shower in your room, can you imagine! So back in my cabin, I get in the shower cubicle, switch on the tap and wait to experience the latest in luxury train travel. Except there is no water. Of course there isnt. I should have known. A woman who lost both of her legs has revealed she is still looking for love almost two years after her hilarious Tinder profile went viral. Mandy Horvath, 26, from Smithville, Missouri, became a double amputee in 2014 when she was hit by a coal train while lying unconscious on the track near a bar she had been at. She believes she was 'left to die' after her drink was spiked with a date rape drug. However, determined not to be defined by her disability, the university student continuously pokes fun at herself on Tinder as she searches for a potential match. Hilarious! Mandy Horvat, from Smithville, Missouri, who lost both of her legs in a tragic accident five years ago, has revealed she is still looking for love on Tinder Brilliant! The 26-year-old's profile reads: 'I'm back to tinder b*****s. 'Still ain't got no legs. Still got a golden sense of humor but.. still ain't got a boyfriend' Devastating: The Missouri-native who works as a chef and is also a full-time student, was struck by a train in 2014, resulting in her legs being severed from just above her knee Mandy's funny Tinder profile, in which she dubbed herself a 'stand-up comedian', captured hearts and went viral in November 2017. In her bio, she joked: 'I'll never run away from you' and 'I come on wheels.' And her latest description on her Tinder profile is just as witty. 'I'm back to Tinder b*****s,' she wrote on her updated dating profile. Tough: Mandy believes she was 'left to die' after her drink was spiked with a date rape drug while she was out with friends Mandy added: 'Still ain't got no legs. Still got a golden sense of humor but... still ain't got a boyfriend.' 'Tried dating a blind guy for a while... but he couldn't see what was in front of him #truestory,' she joked. Mandy, who refers to herself as the bionic bachelorette, according to Bored Panda, said, although it's difficult dating with a disability, the real reason she doesn't have a boyfriend is that she is 'picky' and very busy. 'I am a full-time banquet chef at the Briarhurst Manor Estate in Manitou Springs, under the direction of our new head chef, Sean Evans,' she told the publication. 'I'm also a full-time student at the University of Colorado, Colorado Springs, online for now. '[But] humor aside, I'm picky. It's gonna take a special kind of man to tie me down. You know, dating with a disability is interesting, sometimes you have to draw a picture. Let people know it's okay to joke, I encourage it,' she said. 'Humor has always been a release for me, I like that I can make someone elses day better with a simple laugh,' she added. Mandy, who regularly shares inspirational posts with her 14,000 Instagram followers, also said she doesn't like to think of herself as being 'disabled'. Instead, she considers herself different. Before: Pictured before the accident, Mandy has said previously that she remembered 'feeling a bit hazy' after she left the bar to have a cigarette 'and then nothing' Heartbreaking: As seen after the horrific accident, doctors thought she had tried to kill herself and by the time she was able to explain the situation it was too late to test for date rape drugs Humor: Mandy said her humor has been her 'driving force' since her accident, as she claims it has made her recovery after the incident a lot easier Mandy had been enjoying a night out with some new friends in July 2014 when she was hit by a coal train and lost both of her legs. She had just two bottles of beer and two shots, which led her to believe that one of them must have been drugged. Recalling the night, Mandy has said previously that she remembered 'feeling a bit hazy' after she left the bar to have a cigarette 'and then nothing'. Doctors initially thought she had tried to kill herself, and by the time she was functional enough to explain the situation, it was too late to test for date rape drugs. Despite the horrific accident, the student makes light of her situation on a regular basis. She revealed how the wickedly funny approach has led to dozens of dates and how she has received equally witty responses from impressed matches. 'Since my accident happened, humor has been the driving force and it has made my recovery a lot easier,' Mandy said. 'My sense of humor in my Tinder bio is so funny, the jokes people send back have me in fits of laughter. People tend to love how open I am and it's definitely helped secure a few dates.' Old: Her previous Tinder bio in 2017 saw her dubbing herself a 'stand up comedian', and she also joked, saying: 'I'll never run away from you' Careful: Although she said she has had great experiences using Tinder, Mandy said she encourages others to be careful on the dating app Positive: The inspirational 26-year-old continues to move forward, and she now works full-time as a chef as well as being a full-time student at the University of Colorado Mandy told MailOnline in 2017 that it was 'traumatic' losing her legs but that she has coped by 'joking about being legless every day'. She added: 'So it was only right to do so on my dating profile to connect with people in my own way.' Mandy avoided dating for years after her accident because she felt too self-conscious but decided to set up a Tinder profile after watching an inspirational YouTube video about dating as a disabled woman. 'When I tried to date after I lost my legs, I would always get guys asking me, "How does sex work for you?" and it completely put me off dating.' She said she felt 'completely alienated' from any romantic opportunities because of her 'lack of insight'. 'But now that I've broken the ice and sexualized my disability with my humor, I am acknowledged as an individual rather than someone bound to a wheelchair,' she said. 'The reactions I get to my profile are hilarious, supportive and kind. Generally, people respond in shock and awe, as well as humor and interest in how I was hit by a train. But despite her many good experiences on Tinder, she advises others to be careful on such dating websites and apps. She told Bored Panda: 'I legitimately enjoy getting on to troll and trade jokes [on the app], and I've made quite a few friends all across the county. 'But I have had a couple of weird experiences as well. I would encourage everyone to be careful on any social app. 'Till someone holds my gaze, I think I'll dub myself the bionic bachelorette,' she added. When it comes to landing the job of your dreams, how you handle yourself in an interview is key. According to leading Australian recruitment expert, Kara Atkinson, the first 60 seconds of any meeting between a manager and potential employee are crucial - so being in top form is all important. 'Before you even walk into the room and sit down. Right or wrong, judgements are being formed quickly,' Ms Atkinson said. To help you get this right, the expert has revealed her top tips for what you need to do to impress a prospective employer and the things you must avoid doing during an interview at all costs. Australian recruitment expert Kara Atkinson (pictured) has revealed the things you should and shouldn't do at an interview if you're out to land the job of your dreams What should you do to impress at an interview? Grooming: Before you even step out of the house to travel to an interview, Ms Atkinson suggests taking a moment to ensure personal grooming is of the highest standard. She said your hair should always be neat and tidy, and if possible, recently cut. If you are a man, make sure nasal hair is non-existent. When selecting an outfit, make sure this is industry-appropriate. This sort of attention to detail will signal to an employer you understand the business' culture. 'Wear deodorant/aftershave/perfume, but not enough that your interviewer can smell it before they see you,' she said. Always remove any facial piercings and before you step through the doors of the building, remove your sunglasses from your head. When you are meeting the hiring manager make sure you shake hands firmly and maintain eye contact (stock image) During the 'meet and greet' phase: Be aware that you are being assessed as early as the meet and greet phase, the expert said. Ms Atkinson advises as you enter the room and are introduced, make an effort to shake hands with the hiring manager firmly and make some eye contact while doing so. 'Accept the water/tea/coffee when asked. You are attempting to build a relationship where - you really should be saying yes to wasabi if it is offered,' she said. If you are being escorted to an interview room with the person who will be hiring 'push the small talk'. 'Chat about the traffic, weather, something in reception that you noticed while waiting, anything to build rapport quickly,' Ms Atkinson said. While you are being interviewed: Interview questions are a way for an employer to gauge how you and your skills relate to the advertised role. This means when asked a question, make sure you answer with specific details, also use concise examples to demonstrate how your experience fits. 'Don't be vague or tell me what you would do in a hypothetical situation - don't start the sentence with "I would". I want to know what you (not your team) have actually done,' Ms Atkinson said. Also, try to inject some warmth into the conversation. This can be as simple as smiling often or if you feel comfortable working a little humour into your answers. What top nine things should you do to impress at an interview? 1. Make sure your hair has been cut recently, and your nasal hair is non-existent. 2. Take your sunglasses off your head and remove any facial piercings. 3. Wear deodorant/aftershave/perfume, but not enough that your interviewer can smell it before they see you. 4. Wear industry appropriate clothing and closed-toe shoes. 5. Shake hands - firmly. And make some eye contact while you're doing it. Then maintain eye contact. 6. Accept the water/tea/coffee when asked. You are attempting to build a relationship here. 7. Push the small talk as you walk towards the interview room - traffic, weather, something in reception that you noticed whilst waiting, anything to build rapport quickly. 8. Give specific and concise examples to each question. Don't be vague or offer suggestions as to what you would do in a hypothetical situation. 9. Try to smile often, work some humour and commonality into the conversation. Advertisement What things should you not do at a job interview? Your arrival: No matter how stressed you might feel by not being able to locate a business' premises, do not under any circumstance ring an employer to ask for directions. 'Use Google Maps, sat nav, phone a friend - anything is better than letting them know you don't know how to navigate the unfamiliar,' the expert said. Aim to be early, however, you don't want to be too early. Arriving more than 10 minutes ahead of a scheduled meeting is as unattractive as being late. Managing nerves: Everyone feels nervous ahead of an interview but it's important to manage your feelings in a appropriate way. This means never smoking in the hour preceding a meeting, drinking excess caffeine or putting pressure on yourself by the possibility of being late. 'Just remember that the interviewer may also be nervous or pressed for time, but ultimately, they are hopeful you are their next employee,' Ms Atkinson said. Even if you are hopelessly lost on the way to an interview, resist the urge to phone a prospective employer to ask for directions (stock image) While the interview is in progress: Ms Atkinson said you will want to ensure you've taken the time to read over your CV so you are across details such as dates, roles and responsibilities. 'Don't pull your resume out [during an interview] so you can remember what you have written regarding job titles or dates - this erodes your credibility.' Another discussion topic that's off limits during a first interview is 'work/life balance'. 'Work/life balance is aspirational and is earned. If you ask about it in the first interview, it implies you don't work hard,' Ms Atkinson said. Additionally, the expert advised to steer clear of asking about office hours, despite how important this might seem to you. What things should you never do at a job interview? Kara Atkinson has revealed the nine things to avoid doing at a job interview 1. Ring the employer for directions on how to get to their office. Use Google Maps, sat nav or phone a friend. 2. Be too early to an interview. More than 10 minutes early is as unattractive as being late. 3. Smoke a cigarette in the hour preceding the interview. 4. Get overcome with nerves. Just remember that the interviewer may also be nervous or pressed for time. 5. Pull your resume out so you can remember what you have written regarding job titles or dates. 6. Use the words 'work/life balance' in a first interview. 7. Ask about office hours. It may be important to you, but an interview is all about delivering what the company wants. 8. Discuss salary expectations in the first interview, unless the interviewer raises it. 9. Answer questions with just a yes or no - always elaborate and look to give as much of your personality as possible. Advertisement 'Work ethic is ranked highly on prospective employees lists and you must ensure you have ticked that box. Asking about office hours changes that tick to a cross.' Salary expectations are also a topic that's off the table during a first interview - the only exception would be if the interviewer raises it. Ms Atkinson said don't ever just answer questions with a yes or no. While your answers are designed to illustrate your suitability, you should be looking to demonstrate as much of your professional personality as possible. Her final suggestion, one that can help position you as an outstanding candidate, is to take notes. 'Not mental notes - notes with a pen and paper. My clients always mention the candidate that does this in the interview debrief and yet, surprisingly few people do it.' Fitness queen Kayla Itsines has shared the first photo of her post-baby body on Instagram with some of envious fans suggesting she simply looks 'bloated from eating cake'. The 27-year-old founder of Australian workout series Bikini Body Guide posted the last image she took before giving birth at 39 weeks and another shot one week after welcoming daughter Arna Leia into the world. 'If I am honest it is with great trepidation that I share with you this very personal image,' she captioned the side-by-side post. Scroll down for video Fitness queen Kayla Itsines has shared the first photo of her post-baby body on Instagram with some of her fans suggesting she just looks 'bloated from eating cake' 'Every woman's journey through life but especially pregnancy, birth and healing post-birth is unique. 'While each journey has a common thread that connects us as women, our personal experience, our relationship with ourselves and our body will always be our own.' Kayla said she felt a desire to share her own healing process to encourage other women in her community to 'embrace, appreciate and celebrate' their bodies. 'For me right now, I celebrate my body for all it has been through and the absolute joy it has brought into my life with Arna,' she said. The 27-year-old owner of Australian workout series Bikini Body Guide posted the last image she took before giving birth at 39 weeks and another shot one week after welcoming daughter Arna Leia into the world (pictured with fiance Tobi Pearce) 'As a personal trainer all I can hope for you ladies is that you feel encouraged to do the same regardless of whether you have just given birth or not, celebrate your body and the gift that it is. 'No matter what journey you have been on with your body, the ways in which it heals, supports, strengthens and adapts to take us through life is truly incredible.' While many of her 11.4million followers were congratulating the successful entrepreneur on her pregnancy journey, others said she didn't even 'look post partum'. Welcome to the world: Kayla told how she stared into her partner's eyes while giving birth Tobi also posted a picture on Instagram of him holding his new little one 'You don't even look post partum... you just look bloated from cake,' one person said. 'You look like me after lunch lol. Don't sweat it! You still look great and will be back to yourself in no time,' another said. A third added: 'Looks like me on a good day'. Kayla gave birth to Arna via caesarean at the end of April, her fiance Tobi Pearce, 26, by her side the entire time. In a lengthy caption on her social media birth announcement Kayla described how she stared into his eyes during the delivery before her 'perfect' child was born. The young couple embraced as Tobi, with tears streaming down his face, whispered 'she's so perfect, I love you.' She wrote: 'I just stared into Tobi's eyes the whole time during delivery, nervously whispering 'please let her be healthy, please be okay, please be okay' and Tobi kept repeating 'I love you so much - she's going to be healthy it's okay just breathe it's okay'. We both were crying. 'In that second, we heard her cry for the first time, the doctors and nurses examined her quickly, bought her over to us and said 'she is absolutely perfect'. My doctor said 'Look at that hair and those cheeks! Amazing!' 'I don't even know how to describe how I felt in that moment. I looked over at Tobi who looked like the proudest Dad I've ever seen, with tears running down his face he gave me a kiss on the forehead and whispered 'She's so perfect, I love you'. 'She is perfect indeed! From the start, she knew exactly who we were and was instantly calm. Kayla then described how Tobi reacted during and after the birth. She wrote: 'Tobi went into "Dad mode" straight away. From someone who made jokes the whole nine months about not being able to change a diaper... to now not wanting to let ANYONE change her because he wants to help - has made me love him even MORE. Last week Kayla Itsines said she won't be posting photos of her 'muffin' on social media In March it was revealed the Australian couple have accumulated a half a billion-dollar fortune just five years after launching a women's fitness app 'Tobi wraps her up and cuddles her and she goes straight to sleep. She's a happy quiet bubba who LOVES her big Greek family. The fitness model then mentioned herself, saying she was still sore. Her post continued: 'As for me, I ended up having a cesarean, as recommended by the doctor. I was a little bit sore, but after a couple of days I was generally fine, just no lifting other than Arna. Now, I just need to rest, eat good food, drink lots of water and I'll be okay! 'I feel so BLESSED right now. I AM blessed to have Tobi and my family be there every day. I am so thankful to have the most amazing doctor and midwives ever to help me. 'This experience has been amazing for me and I am proud to say that. Thank you everyone for being SO amazing!! We are so in love and happy. Holding her for the first time in our arms was truly the best day of our life.' Celebrities have taken to social media to congratulate the Duke and Duchess of Sussex after their first appearance with baby Archie yesterday. Victoria Beckham led the tributes on Instagram, writing: 'Congratulations to the Duke and Duchess of Sussex #PrinceHarry and #MeghanMarkle on their baby boy! So happy for you both. x VB.' Victoria, 45, who attended the royal wedding with husband David last year, shared the message with a photo of the Sussex family taken at Windsor Castle yesterday. Meanwhile Peter Andre, 46, seemed particularly taken with little Archie, sharing a string of Instagram posts in quick succession. Celebrities have taken to social media to congratulate the Duke and Duchess of Sussex after their first appearance with baby Archie at Windsor Castle yesterday, pictured. Victoria Beckham shared this snap of the family shortly after the photos were released Victoria, 45, who attended the royal wedding with husband David last year, shared a message saying she is 'so happy' for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, as seen above Peter Andre, 46, seemed particularly taken with little Archie, sharing a string of Instagram posts in quick succession, including what appeared to be a homemade meme, seen above Andre, a father of four, posted two other photos of Archie with his proud parents. On one post he shared this excited caption begging wife Emily to intervene and make him stop Actress Olivia Wilde shared her amazement at Meghan's composure just days after giving birth Star Wars actor Mark Hamill, actress Olivia Wilde and Meghan's facialist Nichola Joss also shared their excitement. Harry and Meghan sent royal fans across the world into a frenzy yesterday when they took part in a photocall in St George's Hall, Windsor Castle, with their newborn son. The two-day-old infant was lovingly cradled by his adoring father and watched attentively by Meghan, who was herself pictured for the first time in six weeks since withdrawing from public life ahead of the birth. Harry and Meghan sent royal fans across the world into a frenzy yesterday when they took part in a photocall in St George's Hall, Windsor Castle, with their newborn son, pictured Facialist Nichola Joss, who has previously treated the Duchess of Sussex, shared this sweet family photo with the simple caption: 'Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor' Former UK Vogue editor-in-chief Alexandra Shulman wished Harry and Meghan well while sharing a photo of her own son when he was younger Star Wars actor noted Harry might have chosen his son's middle name after Harrison Ford... and admitted he wished it had been 'Mark' instead Mia Farrow joined in the fun by sharing a family photo of the Sussexes on Twitter Model Tess Holliday and Brazilian actress Fernanda Rodrigues commented on the Sussexes' Instagram post to share their joy The couple appeared to be beside themselves with joy, giggling and looking into each other's eyes as they spoke, while Harry could not resist sneaking a peek down at his son as he apparently slept. Speaking for only three minutes from inside the majestic St George's Hall at Windsor Castle, a radiant Meghan declared: 'It's magic, it's pretty amazing. He's just been the dream so it's been a special couple of days. 'I have the two best guys in the world so I'm really happy. He has the sweetest temperament, he's really calm.' Clare Balding joined hundreds of social media users sharing snaps of their pets called Archie Boxer Frank Bruno was one of the first celebs to congratulated the couple on social media Perez Hilton and Roland Mouret both commented underneath the Sussex Royal Instagram snap of the new family Four hours later, the new parents revealed their son's full name on their Instagram account: Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor. The combination of the appearance and name reveal prompted an outpouring of support online. Andre, a father of four, appeared smitten by the family photos. Sharing one, he wrote: 'Love them. Congratulations.' Minutes later he added a close-up shot of Archie, adding: 'Ah cant stop posting these pics. Emily help!!! Beautiful just beautiful. Congratulations,' appealing to wife Emily to intervene. He followed up with a third post, showing a meme of the Sussex family. He is not even a week old, but Archie is already proving he is a retail force to be reckoned with. The newborn royal sparked a shopping frenzy after he made his first appearance in the arms of his parents the Duke and Duchess of Sussex at Windsor Castle yesterday. Harry, 34, and Meghan, 37, wrapped their son in a 105 shawl from family business G. H. Hurt & Son for his public debut, prompting a flurry of enquiries to the Nottingham-based firm. Speaking to Femail, Richard Taylor, Marketing Director of G. H. Hurt & Son, revealed there had been 25,000 visitors to the company's online shop in the last 24 hours, compared to the 'hundreds' received on a typical day. This is equal to a surge of somewhere between 186 per cent and 200 per cent. Newborn Archie sparked a shopping frenzy after he made his first appearance in the arms of his parents the Duke and Duchess of Sussex at Windsor Castle yesterday, pictured Harry, 34, and Meghan, 37, wrapped their son in a 105 shawl from family business G. H. Hurt & Son for his public debut, prompting a flurry of enquiries to the Nottingham-based firm Harry, 34, and Meghan, 37, selected the Leaves and Flowers Baby Shawl in ivory, pictured on the company website, which also comes in pink and blue The Susssexes' decision to support the company marks a continuation of some 70 years of royal tradition, with the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh selecting a G. H. Hurt & Son shawl for Prince Charles' public debut in 1948. In the decades since royal parents including Prince Charles and Princess Diana, and the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have chosen to swaddle their babies in shawls from the firm. While the company is never informed if a member of the Royal Family has selected one of its shawls, Mr Taylor admitted Archie's outing was a particular surprise as the Duke and Duchess of Sussex 'seem to be doing things their own way'. The move marks a continuation of some 70 years of royal tradition, with new parents including the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge choosing shawls by the brand for their children's public debuts. Pictured, William and Kate with Charlotte wrapped in a G.H. Hurt & Son shawl in 2015 Prince Charles and Princess Diana swaddled Prince William in a shawl from G. H. Hurt & Son when they left the Lindo Wing in 1982, pictured '[However by choosing the shawl], it shows they're doing things their own way but they're also drawing on family tradition. 'How amazing that they can be modern and different, but also traditional. Its a perfect mix for a young, modern couple.' Harry, 34, and Meghan, 37, selected the Leaves and Flowers Baby Shawl in ivory, which also comes in pink and blue. He said: 'It is nice. Everyone wants to do things their own way, something a little bit different. But it led us to believe that maybe they would do their own thing when it came to presenting the baby. The couple appeared to be beside themselves with joy, giggling and looking into each other's eyes as they spoke, while Harry could not resist sneaking a peek down at his son as he apparently slept The loved-up couple waved to the camera before walking off as they prepared to introduce the infant to his great-grandmother, the Queen The piece is made from two separate shawls, hand finished and then joined together, with the lovely shell edge finish on all four sides. It takes up to three days and goes through eight pairs of artisan craft person hands to make each one. Mr Taylor revealed the Leaves and Flowers design was previously not a best seller, although this could change over the coming weeks and days. The Duchess of Sussex is putting her own stamp on royal photos by releasing them in black and white, an expert explained. Meghan, 37, and Harry, 34, have plumped for black and white pictures on a number of important occasions, including their official engagement shoot and their first Christmas card. Yesterday the new parents chose a black and white family photo to announce their son's name on Instagram, and released a further two from the photocall at Windsor Castle earlier in the day. Speaking to Femail, photographer Glenn Gratton said Meghan is 'image conscious' and would have carefully thought through which photos to release of her son to make the best impression. He added black and white is 'in vogue' and is a way for the royal mother to distance her photos from the high contrast, filtered photos that flood social media feeds. The Duchess of Sussex is putting her own stamp on royal photos by releasing them in black and white, an expert explained. Harry and Meghan released this beautiful black and white family photo to announce their son's name on their official Instagram account yesterday The Duke and Duchess of Sussex released two more black and white photos taken at the photocall at Windsor Castle earlier in the day, including the one above The proud parents have released black and white photos to mark a number of important occasions, including their son Archie's first public appearance yesterday, pictured He said: 'Meghan's very image conscious, she wants to make an impression. She would have put a lot of thought into the photos yesterday. 'It's the first the picture of the baby and that's going to be Googled for years and she wants to make sure it's right. She would have thought it all through, long and hard.' Mr Gratton suggested the Duchess of Sussex is perhaps more image conscious than other royals because she draws more attention than other members of the family. 'She's very cautious about what she puts out there,' he added. 'And she has done well.' Mr Gratton, who shoots black and white photos on a Leica Monochrom camera, explained that while black and white photos are far from new, they are 'very much in vogue' and are becoming increasingly popular. Harry and Meghan also opted to have black and white photos on their wedding day, later choosing this one of them standing with their backs to the camera as their first Christmas card The Duchess of Sussex showed she is personally a fan of black and white snaps when she shared a monochrome photo of husband Prince Harry rehearsing for an Invictus Games speech during the royal tour last autumn, pictured. It was later shared on Instagram He continued: 'It is very complimentary on skin tones - take someone who is red-headed, or pale skinned - it is flattering for them. It just looks beautiful. It's very forgiving.' The photographer added Meghan could also be wishing to distance herself from the 'high contrast, Instagram filtered images' that dominate social media. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex made a statement when they released two of the three official engagement photos in black and white. The snaps, taken by Alexi Lubomirski, captured the couple looking loved-up in the grounds near their now-home Frogmore Cottage, in Windsor. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex made a statement when they released two of the three official engagement photos in black and white, including the one above The snaps, taken by Alexi Lubomirski, captured the couple looking loved-up in the grounds near their now-home Frogmore Cottage, in Windsor. Pictured, one of the engagement photos Harry and Meghan also opted to have some black and white photos on their wedding day, later choosing one of them standing with their backs to the camera as their first Christmas card. Social media has proved an excellent platform for the couple to showcase their personal take on photography. The first post on their Sussex Royal account was a gallery culminating in a previously unseen black and white snap on their royal tour of Australia, New Zealand, Tonga and Fiji. They have since shared monochrome snaps to highlight their work and charitable causes. The Duchess of Sussex showed she is personally a fan of black and white snaps when she shared a monochrome photo of husband Prince Harry rehearsing for an Invictus Games speech during the royal tour last autumn. Baby Archie Mountbatten-Windsor is the 'most peaceful and placid child', a royal source has revealed. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex welcomed their son on Monday morning and presented him to the world in a photocall at Windsor Castle yesterday. Speaking to Harper's Bazaar, a source close to the couple told how Harry, 34, and Meghan, 37, are 'rather tired' despite their baby's docile nature. 'This was a very special moment for the coupleone they wont forget,' the source said. The new parents were bursting with pride as they presented Archie Harrison to the world yesterday Archie is said to be a 'peaceful and placid' child, with Meghan revealing yesterday her son has 'the sweetest temperament' 'The baby is the most peaceful, placid child youll ever meet. They are so proud but probably quite relieved to have gotten the photos out the way Theyre rather tired!' Harry and Meghan's first born, who is seventh in line to the throne, made his debut with his mother and father at the castle on Wednesday. The two-day-old infant was lovingly cradled by his adoring father and watched attentively by Meghan, who was herself pictured for the first time in six weeks since withdrawing from public life ahead of the birth. The couple appeared to be beside themselves with joy, giggling and looking into each other's eyes as they spoke, while Harry could not resist sneaking a peek down at his son as he apparently slept. Archie Harrison was born on Monday morning in the early hours and introduced to the world in a photocall yesterday Speaking for only three minutes from inside the majestic St George's Hall at Windsor Castle, a radiant Meghan declared: 'It's magic, it's pretty amazing. He's just been the dream so it's been a special couple of days. 'I have the two best guys in the world so I'm really happy. He has the sweetest temperament, he's really calm.' Four hours later, the new parents revealed their son's full name on their Instagram account: Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor. Prince Harry arrived in The Hague earlier today after leaving his two day old son at home with wife Meghan and mother-in-law Doria Ragland It's believed that during the intervening period, the couple went to visit the Queen. With Meghan describing it as a 'nice moment to introduce the baby to more family.' Their baby boy will not have a royal title like Kate and Williams' children, Prince George, five, Princess Charlotte, four, and Prince Louis, one, but will be known simply as Master Archie after George V limited titles within the family during the First World War. Baby Archie, who was born at 5.26am on Monday, is also shown in an image alongside his grandmother Doria Ragland and parents Harry and Meghan - who has described her first few days of parenting as 'magic'. The new royal Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor will automatically become a prince, but only when his grandfather Prince Charles becomes King. Archie was born on Monday and revealed to the world yesterday by the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, who have chosen not to give their son a courtesy title. However, a royal decree made over 100 years ago by the Queen's grandfather George V in 1917, means that Archie will automatically gain HRH status, as will all grandchildren on the direct male line of the sovereign. Charles' desire for a slimmed-down monarchy is well documented, and he could issue new letters patent to overturn the George V convention that guarantees his grandchildren royal titles. However, a senior source told the Evening Standard that it's been agreed with Harry and Meghan that Archie will automatically become a prince. 'The Sussexes have chosen not to give their children courtesy titles at this time, on the change of reign the George V convention would apply,' the source said. The new royal Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor will become a prince, but only when his grandfather Prince Charles becomes King. Pictured with his Mother and Father yesterday When Prince Charles eventually ascends the throne, Harry and Meghan's son, Archie, will automatically become a prince Only the Queen could overturn the decree that would make Archie a prince before then, with new letters patent - which she did for the children of William and Kate. HRH status normally lapses after two royal generations - except for the eldest son of the eldest son of the eldest son of the monarch, which is Prince George. But, when Kate was pregnant with Prince George, the monarch issued new Letters Patent on December 31, 2012 declaring that all of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge's children would have the title of Royal Highness and be styled Princes and Princesses. This is why Princess Charlotte is not Lady Charlotte, and Prince Louis is not Lord Louis. What is the George V convention? In 1917, the Queen's grandfather issued new letters patent that limited the number of royal family members with an HRH title. These stated that 'the children of any Sovereign of these Realms and the children of the sons of any such Sovereign and the eldest living son of the eldest son of the Prince of Wales shall have and at all times hold and enjoy the style, title or attribute of Royal Highness with their titular dignity of Prince or Princess prefixed to their respective Christian names or with their other titles of honour'. This means that when Prince Charles become King, his grandchildren - including Archie - will all automatically become princes or princesses. It was also decreed that 'grandchildren of the sons of any such Sovereign in the direct male line ... shall have and enjoy in all occasions the style and title enjoyed by the children of Dukes of these Our Realms" (i.e., Lord or Lady before their Christian name).' In addition the letters stated 'save as aforesaid the style title or attribute of Royal Highness, Highness or Serene Highness and the titular dignity of Prince or Princess shall not henceforth be assumed or borne by any descendant of any Sovereign of these Realms. King George V, pictured on his coronation day in June 1911 with his consort Queen Mary, limited titles within the royal family during the First World War Advertisement The document said: 'The Queen has been pleased by Letters Patent under the Great Seal of the Realm dated 31 December 2012 to declare that all the children of the eldest son of The Prince of Wales should have and enjoy the style, title and attribute of Royal Highness with the titular dignity of Prince or Princess prefixed to their Christian names or with such other titles of honour.' But it is thought that Meghan and Prince Harry are happy to wait for their son to have a royal title until Archie's grandfather becomes King. Buckingham Palace has said on the matter of a title for Archie: 'While there are courtesy titles that Their Royal Highnesses The Duke and Duchess of Sussex could apply to their son, they have chosen not to give him a courtesy title at this time. Only the Queen could overturn the decree, with a new Letters Patent - in which she did for the children of William and Kate Archie Harrison, who was born on Monday and revealed to the world yesterday by the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, won't have a royal titles like his cousins until the Queen steps down and Charles in made King 'So he will be known as Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor.' How HRH titles work George V decried during the First World War that royal titles should be limited. HRH status therefore normally lapses after two royal generations. That is except for the eldest son of the eldest son of the eldest son of the monarch - which is Prince George. Royal status can also only be given to a monarch's grandchildren through sons rather than daughters. But the Queen has varied the rules for specific couples in recent years. This has led to William and Kate's children all becoming HRH, despite George being the only one who should have the title under George V's plans. She also offered Princess Anne a royal title for her daughter Zara Phillips in 1981, but this was declined. Advertisement Meghan and Harry made their first appearance with their son yesterday as they posed in St George's Hall in Windsor with him. Asked who the baby takes after, Meghan said: 'We're still trying to figure that out.' Harry said: 'Everyone says that babies change so much over two weeks we're basically monitoring how the changing process happens over this next month really. 'But his looks are changing every single day, so who knows?' While many celebrities have taken to social media to congratulate the pair. Victoria Beckham, 45, who attended the royal wedding with husband David last year, shared a message with a photo of the Sussex family taken at Windsor Castle. Meanwhile Peter Andre, 46, seemed particularly taken with little Archie, sharing a string of Instagram posts in quick succession. The Duke of Sussex took a break from parenting today as he travelled to the Netherlands to launch next years Invictus Games. Meghan and Harry made their first appearance with their son yesterday as they posed in St George's Hall in Windsor with him Heartbreaking footage has revealed the moment a buffalo sacrificed herself to protect her calf as she was pounced upon by two lions in the Serengeti. The video, which was posted on Instagram, shows how the mother and her calf were surprised by two male lions hidden in the grass. As they wrestled her to the ground, her calf who had walked out of the shot, returned and approached the lions in a desperate move to defend her from the attack. But the mother apparently didn't put up a fight, in order to keep the lions' focus on her and protect her calf - believed to be a few weeks old. The footage shared by East Safaris Tours & Travel, which has been viewed almost 2,000 times, doesn't make clear the fate of the mother and child. The buffalo and it's calf walk through the grass before the attack, with the mother helpfully nudging it's baby to help it walk Suddenly the pair are set upon in a surprise coordinated attack by two male lions, who appeared out of the long grass The clip begins with the buffalo mother and her calf walking through the long grass. The tiny calf appeared to be young and still wobbly on its feet, so its mother had to help it walk by gently nudging it along. But a noise alerted her to an incoming surprise attack, with two male lions appearing seemingly from nowhere and running up to her. She was quick to spin around to face-off against the two male lions, who crouched low before leaping on her back in a co-ordinated attack. The buffalo mother rounds on the lions, who crouch low before leaping on top of her in a coordinated attack The first lion clings to the buffalo, digging it's claws into her back and attacking her throat with it's jaw The second lion then leaps onto the buffalo's back as the animals attempt to bring the mother to the ground One lion jumped on to her neck, cleverly avoiding the mother's enormous horns, and clenched its jaw around her throat, digging claws into her back for support. In an attempt to bring the buffalo down to the ground, the other leaped on to the buffalo's back and grabbed her with its huge jaw. The mother was quick to try to buck the lions off, and spun around in an attempt to rid herself of the enormous cats. As the attack continued, the calf could be seen unsteadily running back to protect its mother. With the lions clinging on, the mother appeared to be dragged down to the ground. The fate of either buffalo is unclear, as the video fades to black with the lions clinging onto the mother, and the baby watching on. However, buffaloes do have the strength to bring down a lion - although a lone animal may struggle against two big cats. The animals attempt to drag the mother down to the ground, while she spins and bucks to try to defend herself from the attack The baby buffalo is seen returning at the end of the clip, in a desperate attempt to defend it's mother from the attack At just 22, Zendaya is at the top of her game as evidenced by her just-released cover of Vogue's June issue. Her meteoric rise and acknowledgement from the fashion world is particularly sweet for the actress, whose first big fashion moment involved a very public feud with E!'s Fashion Police and Giuliana Rancic. But as Zendaya points out now, things turned out quite alright for her in the aftermath of that moment: In addition to covering Vogue, she's starring in HBO's new series Euphoria, designing her own Tommy x Zendaya collection, and posing for Lancome as the brand's youngest global ambassador. Glamour girl! Zendaya covers the June issue of Vogue magazine, shot by Tyler Mitchell Working it! The actress, who is set to star in the new HBO series Euphoria, posed in several designer outfits Change: She told the magazine that while she does not consider herself an activist, she does want to use her art and her platform to make a difference Number two! This is already Zendaya's second Vogue cover; her first was July 2017 Zendaya was photographed by Tyler Mitchell for Vogue's June issue. On the cover, she looks stunning in a gold sequined Ralph Lauren Collection dress with a plunging neckline that reaches just above her navel. Already on her second Vogue cover her first was in July 2017, shot by Mario Testino the actress is clearly quite comfortable making a fashionable statement. In fact, she wore one of the more show-stopping looks at the Met Gala on Monday night, donning a light blue Cinderella-inspired Tommy Hilfiger dress. As her stylist Law Roach dressed as her fairy godmother waved a wand, the gown magically lit up and changed color. But her first super buzz-worthy red carpet moment was back in 2015, when she walked the red carpet at the Oscars in a Vivienne Westwood dress. It wasn't her dress, though, that earned the most attention: It was her long dreadlocks. Ta-da! On Monday, Zendaya dressed as Cinderella for the Met Gala Bippity boppity boo! Her stylist, Law Roach, performed fairy godmother duties and transformed her gown After the event, her look was critiqued on E!'s Fashion Police, with host Giuliana Rancic saying that they make her look like she 'smells like patchouli oil. Or weed.' Zendaya hit back at the time, writing on Instagram: 'There is already harsh criticism of African-American hair in society without the help of ignorant people who choose to judge others based on the curl of their hair. 'My wearing my hair in locs on an Oscar red carpet was to showcase them in a positive light, to remind people of color that our hair is good enough.' Four years later, she says of the incident: 'That whole thing was so crazy.' 'I mean, Id basically snuck onto the red carpet, the plus one of a plus one,' she went on. In 2018, 'I got invited back as a presenter. So I guess I won.' Zendaya hasn't just made a name for herself with her style she's also been outspoken about issues like race, though she won't call herself an 'activist.' Flashback: Back in 2015, Zendaya 'snuck' on to the Oscars red carpet through a friend and wore her hair in dreadlocks On top: She hit back after Giuliana Rancic made some comments about her hair, and now says she 'won' since she was invited back to present at the Oscars last year One issue in particular she's interested in is gentrification, having seen her grandma nearly loose her home in Oakland because of skyrocketing prices. 'I keep thinking, Is there a way I can help with this, through art?' she said. 'I mean, obviously, Ive got a platform, but I also know, dont just post whatever. Youve got to listen to people. Talking is important. But walking the talk is important, too.' She added that she hopes to talk to other young people who have been active in combating issues like these. 'What Id really like is to reach out to my peers in the Bay Area. Like, there are kids I was in elementary school with, who are out there doing the work. Organizing. Maybe they can help me figure out what to do,' she said. Former first daughter Barbara Bush Coyne was spotted riding New York City's subway during an early morning commute. The 37-year-old looked tired but otherwise expressionless as she waited among the crowds on the platform on Thursday morning Barbara, who recently married actor and screenwriter Craig Coyne, 37, was dressed in a chic outfit as she waited for her train during rush hour. Busy! Barbara Bush Coyne was spotted waiting for a subway train during an early morning commute in New York City on Thursday, May 9 Rush hour: The 37-year-old former first daughter wore a white mid-length A-line skirt and a black low cut T-shirt as she held a cup of coffee and waited for her train during rush hour Crowds: She then piled onto the nearest carriage of the train among the crowds, as she made her way on her morning commute The former first daughter, best known for co-founding non-profit organization Global Health Corps, was spotted standing on the platform edge as she waited for her subway. Once it arrived, she joined the swarms of people piling onto the train. Lovers: Barbara tied the knot with actor Craig Coyne (L) in a romantic wedding ceremony in Kennebunkport, Maine, in October, 2018, to which they invited just 20 people While waiting for her train on Thursday morning, she appeared fresh-faced and more or less makeup-free. She styled her hair in a low, no-fuss bun at the nape of her neck, and wore a pair of black sunglasses perched atop her head. Barbara wore a mid-length white A-line skirt with floral embellishments, which she paired with a contrasting black low cut T-shirt. She finished the look with a pair of simple black ballet pumps that tied around the ankle, a dainty gold bangle on her wrist and a navy blue tote on her shoulder. The activist, who is one of two daughters of former president George W. Bush and former First Lady Laura Bush, carried her iPhone in one hand, and held a cup of coffee in the other. Her flashy engagement ring, which represents her marriage to husband Craig Coyne, was also on full display. The pair married in an intimate wedding back in October 2018, during which they were surrounded by close friends and family. Family: Pictured with sister Jenna Bush Hager (second left) and Jenna's husband, parents Laura and George W. Bush (center) and Jenna's children, the ceremony was small and intimate Take two: Barbara (pictured with friend Megan Ferguson) threw a second wedding last month at the Bush home, Prairie Chapel Ranch, to which they invited a total of 200 guests Around 20 people attended the ceremony, which was held in the Bush family compound in Kennebunkport, Maine. According to People, the pair met each other on a blind date in November 2017. While visiting Maine, the couple were walking along the beach when Craig dropped proposed in the same spot Barbara's grandparents got engaged almost exactly 75 years earlier, in August 1943. Romantic: Pictured in January, Barbara met Craig on a blind date in November 2017. He proposed to her in the same spot that her grandparent's got engaged in 1943 During the ceremony, Barbara's father walked her down the aisle before she and Craig exchanged vows in what Barbara described as as 'a very short, sweet ceremony'. Today show presenter and Barbara's twin sister, Jenna Bush Hager, served as maid of honor, and her two daughters, five-year-old Margaret and three-year-old Poppy, were flower girls along with Craig's five-year-old niece, Emma. The couple recently tied the knot once again in a more lavish celebration that took place Crawford, Texas in April. Approximately 200 guests attended the couple's second wedding party, including a wider circle of family and friends. Guests at the event, which was held at the Bush home, Prairie Chapel Ranch, included actress Megan Ferguson, Sky Ting Yoga co-founders Krissy Jones and Chloe Kernaghan. Jewelry designer Siena Crawford, fashion executive Alyssa Zachary, T Magazine editor Isabel Wilkinson, restaurateur Kyle Hotchkiss Carone, and designer Prabal Gurung were also present. Your Sunday morning bacon sarnie could be about to get a lot healthier, as Sainsbury's has announced it will soon be stocking a fat free alternative to the meaty treat. The UK supermarket chain is to start selling vegan bacon, which is the creation of Dutch manufacturer Vivera. The brand specialises in producing plant-based meat alternatives that aim to closely resemble the taste and texture of the real thing. Its new Veggie Bacon Pieces, which are expected to retail at around 2.50, are intended to mimic the flavour, feel and appearance of real bacon bits, while containing zero fat. Vivera's new Veggie Bacon Pieces are intended to mimic the flavour, feel and appearance of real bacon bits, while containing zero fat In a statement, Gert Jan Gombert, commercial director of Vivera, said: 'Especially in the British market we foresee a large demand for our fat free vegan bacon. 'Traditionally it is one of the product categories where meat has been difficult to replace. 'Our product development team has done an outstanding job in making the bacon pieces as tasty as the available regular bacon while reducing the fat level to zero!' Vivera products currently on sale at Sainsbury's Vivera Veggie Kebab pieces - 2.50 Vivera Veggie Mince - 2.50 Vivera Veggie Chicken Pieces - 2.50 Vivera Veggie Burgers x2 - 2.50 Vivera Veggie Greek Kebab - 2.50 Vivera Veggie Bites - 2.50 Advertisement The brand's vegan steak is already on sale in Tesco for 2.99, after being introduced last year. Sainsbury's also stocks a number of Vivera products including veggie mince, veggie chicken pieces and veggie burgers. The plant-based product has sold more than 1,000,000 in Britain and will be introduced into an addition 430 Sainsbury's stores from May 15. Mr Gombert said they've received 'overwhemingly positive feedback' from consumers for the product, which prompted them to launch its vegan bacon in Britain before anywhere else. It will be sold exclusively in a wide selection of Sainsbury's supermarkets initially, before being rolled out to other European countries over the course of the rest of this year. The Dutch brand specialises in producing plant-based meat alternatives that aim to closely resemble the taste and texture of the real thing. Pictured are the bacon pieces in a salad Vivera's vegan steak, pictured, is already on sale in UK supermarkets including Tesco and Sainsbury's, after being introduced last year, and has proved very popular Just last month, experts warned even eating moderate amounts of ham, bacon and and red meat boosts the risk of bowel cancer. The study by The World Cancer Research Fund (WCRF) found that people consuming an average of 76g per day of red and processed meat had a 20 per cent higher risk of the disease compared with those who ate 21g per day. For processed meat only, the risk was 19 per cent higher for those who had an average of 29g per day (about one rasher of bacon or a slice of ham) compared with those who had an average of 5g per day. There was some good news however, with those people having a high intake of fibre from bread and breakfast cereals lowering their risk of bowel cancer by 14 per cent. A college student whose co-worker told her he doesn't like the look of heavy makeup on women has shown him just what she thinks of that opinion by sporting extra-glamorous makeup to work for the next few days. Twenty-year-old biomedical engineering student Hannah, who prefers to go by her first name only, detailed her experience on Reddit on Friday, April 19. The makeup enthusiast, who works part-time at a local community recreation center, shared a photo of herself wearing bright blue eye shadow and said: 'My coworker said he hates women with heavy makeup, so naturally this is how I came in to work today.' Confident! A 20-year-old Reddit user named Hannah wore bold makeup (pictured) to her part-time job after a male co-worker told her he doesn't like women wearing heavy makeup Determined! The biomedical engineering student said the co-worker 'advised' her to stop wearing makeup, as he said he preferred women to be 'barefaced' Speaking to Today, the 20-year-old student said the unnamed co-worker had previously given her a lot of 'advice' regarding her appearance. Hannah said: 'He advised me to stop stretching my ears, and told me that my (at the time) sunflower yellow hair was unprofessional. Brilliant! In an effort to show the unnamed worker that his opinions didn't effect her, she sported a number of bold makeup looks for the next few days 'But nothing got him started like my makeup did,' she added. She explained that he thought she appeared more attractive without makeup, and that, in general, he thought women looked nicer with no makeup on. 'He kept telling me that I was an attractive person without all that stuff on (first of all, gross), and that he prefers his women barefaced. 'The final straw was the day he told me that I shouldn't wear makeup because I was in a long-term relationship and didn't need to impress anyone,' she said. In order to prove a point that his opinion didn't matter to her, she decided to use makeup to hit back at him. She said: 'The very next day I whipped out the most colorful eye shadow palette I owned and went to town with a blue smokey eye. 'When I showed up at work, he snickered and said, "Oh, that will get a lot of looks," but I didn't really care at that point,' she added. Determined to continue proving her point, Hannah wore another bold look to work the following day. Support: Since Hannah posted about the incident on Reddit, her post has garnered over 13,000 up-votes and hundreds of comments from different people She wore black lipstick and pink eye shadow, and she opted for a creative multi-colored eye-shadow look the following day. After a few days of sporting creative looks, Hannah said her co-worker didn't bother her about her makeup again. Advice: 'My makeup isnt for you. It never was,' Hannah said, as she urged people to 'think twice' before giving someone advice on their appearance Sharing her advice for anyone who criticizes women for the amount of makeup they wear or lack of, Hannah said: 'My makeup isn't for you. It never was. 'I wear makeup because I love wearing color and I love how calming it is to spend time by myself in the morning blending eye shadow. 'I am a smart, capable, hardworking individual, and I will prove it many times over. My appearance shouldn't influence your opinion on that. So maybe next time think twice before giving someone else advice on how to "look better",' she added. Since she shared her post on Reddit, is has gathered quite a bit of attention, receiving over 13,000 up-votes and hundreds of comments. One user who commented on the post said: 'When I hear someone hates heavy makeup, all I hear is "I hate women that don't act how I think women should and I'm finding a thinly veiled way to say it". Another said: 'If he doesn't like heavy makeup then I suggest he stick to a lightweight bb cream and some lip balm and stay the hell out of other people's business.' Accidentally texting the wrong person can be an embarrassing nightmare but one can only imagine how nerve-wracking it would be to mistakenly message the famously intimating editor-in-chief of Vogue. Yet Tina Fey admitted that that's exactly what happened to her, saying she once accidentally texted Anna Wintour instead of another woman listed under the name Anna in her phone The confession came when the comedian, 48, sat down in front of People's cameras for a round of the drinking game Never Have I Ever with her co-stars in the new movie Wine Country. Scroll down for video Take a drink! Tina, 48, sat down with her Wine Country co-stars to play a game of Never Have I Ever ahead of their movie release. She confessed to accidentally texting someone Dream group: Wine Country stars (from left to right) Tina Fey, Paula Pell, Amy Poehler, Maya Rudolph, Ana Gasteyer and Rachel Dratch Fey was joined by Amy Poehler, Maya Rudolph, Ana Gasteyer, Paula Pell and Rachel Dratch for the funny game, in which the women pulled prompts out of a jar that began with the phrase 'Never have I ever.' Anyone who had ever done the thing written on the piece of paper was made to drink and most shared their stories as well. When the women were prompted to drink if they'd ever drunk-texted someone, Fey admitted that she once mistakenly sent a text to Wintour. 'I once accidentally not drunk I accidentally texted Anna Wintour,' she said. Intimidating: Tina admitted to accidentally texting Wintour (pictured at the Met Gala), but the woman never responded Everyone around her was visibly shocked at the confession, both because Fey actually had Wintour's number and because she had made the mistake. One of her co-stars is heard in saying, 'Tina has Anna Wintour's number in her phone?' Rudolph then wanted to know who Fey thought she was texting when she accidentally sent the message to the fashion mogul, but the actress could not remember. 'I don't remember. Somebody else named Anna, I don't know,' Fey said. 'We are not close. But she's lovely.' This statement came after Gasteyer joked Fey would write to Wintour, 'Girl, you looked cute in those glasses!' While Pell asked, 'Girl, who cut your bob?' The comedian also could not recall exactly what she texted Wintour by accident, but she said: 'It was properly ignored. Politely ignored.' Hilarious: All of the cast members loved Tina's confession and were shocked she had Wintour's phone number Fun: Their new movie follows the friendships between six women as they travel to Napa Valley, California, for one friend's 50th birthday celebration Another secret revealed during the Never Have I Ever game was that Poehler notably makes itineraries whenever she goes on a girls' trips with her friends. Its much appreciated, Rudolph said, while her cast members laughed about how prepared Poehler is on the trips. Dratch even revealed that Poehler will go as far as laminating the itinerary for people. Poehler's reasoning behind making the itineraries is that it helps her to relax for the trip. It calms me down to make a schedule,' she said. 'If I could know every day what Im doing on a piece of paper, even if I didnt do it, I would love it. The cast was also asked if they have ever peed their pants from laughing to hard. To that question, everyone drank. 'Were over 50, and I passed a 10lbs 9oz [baby],' Gasteyer said. Laughing so hard she pees was something Rudolph admitted she does too much of, as her five year old daughter started to notice the habit. 'I pee my pants so much that my five-year-old daughter thought it would be funny to pee her pants like mommy on purpose,' the former Saturday Night Live star said. Together, all six women star in Netflix's Wine Country which debuts on the streaming site Friday. The comedy follows the friendships between six women as they travel to Napa Valley, California, for one friend's 50th birthday celebration. Michelle Obama shared a rare, unseen photo of her family on Instagram on Thursday as she shared a touching tribute to women who've made a difference in her life. The former first lady, 55, said that ahead of Mother's Day in the US this Sunday, she wanted to take a moment to recognize those women who aren't her own mother but have still played a nurturing role in her life. And in sharing her gratitude for her grandmother, her aunt, her college mentor, and her daughters' godmother, Mrs. Obama also posted a beautiful family photo, which was apparently taken several years ago but does not appear to have been published before. Michelle Obama shared a rare, unseen photo of her family on Instagram on Thursday as she shared a touching tribute to women who've made a difference in her life The former first lady, 55, said that ahead of Mother's Day in the US this Sunday, she wanted to take a moment to recognize those women who aren't her own mother but have still played a nurturing role in her life She mentioned 'Mama Kaye,' her daughters' godmother, and reminded readers to thank mother-like figures this weekend, too The photo shows Michelle dressed up in a blue floral Tracy Reese dress, which she has worn on several occasions dating back to 2010. She is smiling next to Malia, wearing a short white eyelet number and holding a pretty bouquet. Next to Malia is former President Barack Obama in a suit, with Sasha wearing her own blue dress in front. Also in the photo are Michelle's mother Marian Robinson, and Marian's longtime friend and Sasha and Malia's godmother Eleanor Kaye Wilson. 'As we prepare for #MothersDay on Sunday, I wanted to take a moment to shine a light on those women in our lives who may not be our mothers, but have nonetheless played an important role in nurturing us,' Mrs. Obama wrote. 'Ive been grateful to be surrounded by so many strong, intelligent, warm-hearted women who, along with my mother, have made me who I am. 'Ive been grateful to be surrounded by so many strong, intelligent, warm-hearted women who, along with my mother, have made me who I am,' she wrote She wrote about her 'soft-spoken grandmother LaVaughn' and her Aunt Robbie, with whom she lived as a child (pictured) 'They include my soft-spoken grandmother LaVaughn, whose work managing a Bible book store showed me some of my first glimpses of a woman in charge. 'I sparred with my Aunt Robbie, who lived below us, during piano lessons but her teaching showed me the importance of hard work and preparation, and she was always there for me when I needed her most. 'My mentor at Princeton, Czerny, saw potential in me and did her part to get me to step outside of my comfort zoneto be a little more bold, a little less cautious. 'And then theres Eleanor Kaye Wilson, who we call "Mama Kaye," she went on, referring to the woman standing between Barack and Michelle's mother in the photo. One woman she called out was Czerny Brasuell (left) , a mentor of hers when she was at Princeton 'Shes sweet-hearted and deep-rooted, a second mother or grandmother for all four of us Malia, Sasha, Barack, and me. Shes been there to help with mealtime, craft time, been to all of our events over so many years a wonderful friend and confidant to my mother. 'We love her, just like we love so many supportive women whose stories and contributions often go unrecognized, but who deserve just as much appreciation and love this time of year.' She concluded the post: 'So if theres a Mama Kaye or a Czerny, a Grandma LaVaughn or an Aunt Robbie in your life, make sure to show them some love this weekend, too. She concluded the post: 'So if theres a Mama Kaye or a Czerny, a Grandma LaVaughn or an Aunt Robbie in your life, make sure to show them some love this weekend, too' Mrs. Obama has spoken about these important women in her life before. 'I ... adored my grandmother LaVaughn Robinson, my fathers mother, from whom I got my middle name,' she told The Guardian. 'Dutiful in her prayers and churchgoing, she was a quiet presence, with a very soft and sweet voice. She never yelled, or even spoke very sternly. 'As a little girl, I also had the opportunity to see her at the Bible bookstore she managed, running the place with precision, making sure the whole operation was humming. 'She carried herself with this wonderful mix of grace and confidence. She was one of the first professional women I could look up to, a woman who knew what was going on.' Last year, Michelle posted a throwback photo of her mother on Mother's Day Her great-aunt Robbie, in fact, is featured heavily in her book, Becoming. Michelle lived on the second floor of Aunt Robbie's house in Chicago, and learned to play piano at her side. In one passage, she recalls her first piano recital and how her aunt came to the rescue. Michelle was used to playing on an older piano with a chipped key that marked middle C but at the recital, there was no such chip, and Michelle got momentarily lost. 'Here in my moment of comeuppance, she arrived at my shoulder almost like an angel,' she wrote. 'Maybe she understood my shock. Maybe she knew that the disparities of the world had just quietly shown themselves to me for the first time.' Speaking to The Guardian, she added: 'She was a bit of a taskmaster, very finickety in the way she taught piano, and we butted heads from time to time, but there was a warmth and love that flowed beneath everything. I loved her independence, her strength and her compassion. She was a big part of my support structure in those formative years.' Czerny Brasuell served as director of the Third World Center from 1981 to 1984. Michelle Obama, then named Michelle Robinson, served on the board. And Eleanor Kaye Wilson is a longtime friend of Michelle's mother, whom Michelle and Barack named godmother to Sasha and Malia. While the couple were campaigning, their daughters would often stay with Mama Kaye. In 2011, President Obama mentioned Mama Kaye during a prayer breakfast, saying that she'd started her own Bible study group 'once I started running for president and she heard what they were saying about me on cable, she felt the need to pray harder."' A mother-to-be who doesn't believe in God has admitted that she wants to join a church for its daycare and people can't agree on whether or not it's crossing the line. The anonymous woman, who is expecting her first child, wrote to Slate's advice column Care and Feeding, explaining that she and her husband live in a city where daycare is 'extremely competitive' and 'two-plus-year waitlists' are the norm. 'I want to increase our chances of getting into one of these coveted programs any way I can,' she said, noting that many of the best programs happen to be run by churches. Good question: An expectant mom who doesn't believe in God asked if it is unethical for her to join a church just to get her unborn child into a good daycare (Stock Image) She stressed that despite being an atheist, she is not opposed to religion. In fact, she has already agreed to let her 'super religious' in-laws get her child baptized in their religion because she knows they will demand it. 'Heres the problem: In an effort to dramatically increase our chances of getting into a good daycare, I want to join the church of my No. 1 pick,' she wrote. 'Its not the religion of my in-laws. My husband thinks we should just hope for the best and let the chips fall where they may.' She noted that while her husband has no problem with baptizing their child to keep his parents happy, he feels it's unethical for them to join a church just for a good daycare. 'My husband thinks this is a horrific abuse, since I am directly benefiting from a community I dont belong in and would not be a part of without the daycare,' she explained. However, she thinks it isn't any different than getting their child baptized in a religion that she is 'not particularly fond of.' In her mind, they are on the 'same ground ethically.' Go for it: Columnist Nicole Cliffe pointed out that many people show up at churches for reasons other than religion and many commenters agreed it was fine 'Is it ethical for me to join a church because I want the daycare, given that I like the community aspects but dont currently believe in God?' she asked. When responding to the woman, columnist Nicole Cliffe pointed out that many people show up at churches for reasons other than religion. As a practicing Christian herself, she said the expectant mom should really be asking herself if the church's values align with her own. 'If getting into this daycare means enough to you to show up, go for it,' she said. 'Also, they know your little game. Plenty of churches attached to daycares are keeping the lights on by contributions from uninterested parents hoping to get a leg up on the competition.' However, not everyone agreed with the advice. Some people took to the comments section to say it was disrespectful and that it would likely be a mistake in the long run. Don't do it: Some people took to the comments section to say it was disrespectful and that it would likely be a mistake in the long run 'If you can get into the daycare without crapping on and desecrating a closely held religious sacrament many people believe in as a covenant with their God, do that instead,' one person wrote. 'I'm sure they'd be happy to accept atheist money if you respect and not appropriate their religion.' 'Are you going to be that couple complaining when your kid comes home singing Jesus songs and wanting you to do the actions that go with?' someone else asked. 'Are you going to be grousing about the Christmas Carol singalong and the Easter pageant and the mealtime prayer and the Bible lesson? If so, best to find somewhere else.' Others thought Cliffe was spot on with her response. 'Churches run daycare for the very purpose of recruiting new members either the kids at some point in the future, or the kids' parents now, or both,' one person comments. 'Play their game with a clear conscience, it's mutual.' 'All is fair in obtaining decent, affordable child care. I know mixed-faith couples who settle on a family religion based entirely on what child care options are available from local denominations,' someone else added. 'I'm pretty sure churches get this, and they have been using their daycares as recruitment tools for decades now.' Amy Duggar, cousin of the stars of TLC's 19 Kids and Counting and Counting On, showed off the first pictures of her baby bump this week. The 32-year-old announced in April that she and her husband Dillon King are expecting their first child, and now she's proudly showing off her pregnant tummy. 'Can you tell I'm 18 weeks preggo!?' she wrote on Instagram on Wednesday, posting a picture of herself in a purple dress, cradling her little bump. Ta-da! Amy Duggar showed off her little baby bump on Instagram this week Loving it: The 32-year-old also flaunted her new maternity jeans and revealed she is 18 weeks along 'Well I am retiring my skinny denim for awhile!' she wrote. 'Saying hello to my 1st pair of maternity jeans today! #stylethebump' 'I ditched all sugary drinks and coffee and I'm staying super healthy with the little bun in the oven,' Amy wrote, captioning a sponsored post for a tea company. 'You are too cute! Cant wait to meet baby King!' commented her cousin, Jinger Duggar. Jinger, 25, already has a nine-month-old daughter named Felicity. And on Thursday, Amy posted yet another picture of herself, this time in a red sweater, jeans, and a jacket. 'Well I am retiring my skinny denim for awhile!' she wrote. 'Saying hello to my 1st pair of maternity jeans today! #stylethebump.' Happy: 'We are completely speechless, overly excited and ready for the next chapter as new parents!' Amy and her husband Dillon King said after announcing they're expecting Amy first shared her pregnancy news on April 21, posting a professional photo she'd posed for with her husband. 'BABY KING IS ON THE WAY!!!' she captioned it. 'Happy Easter from our growing family to yours!!' The baby is due in October. Amy and Dillon gushed to People about the pregnancy, telling the publication: 'We are completely speechless, overly excited and ready for the next chapter as new parents!' Amy added: 'Im over the moon about becoming a momma! I just cant hardly wait!' The couple tied the knot in a ceremony in Arkansas with many of the Duggar family in attendance. While it is quite typical for her cousins to get pregnant on their honeymoons, or soon after, Amy and Dillon gave things a bit more time. Family gathering: The couple married in September 2015 but waited to have their first child Just the two: Amy had previously said they were 'practicing' 'The kids are coming,' she told People last December. 'Weve been practicing.' That she and Dillon have chosen to wait to procreate certainly makes her unique among members of her extended family. Her aunt and uncle, Michelle and Jim Bob, have been outspoken against birth control, saying that they welcomed as many children as God saw fit to give them. They weren't always that way. Jim Bob revealed that initially, they thought they'd have just two or three kids, and Michelle went on the pill for the first few years of their marriage. After having their eldest son Josh, Michelle went back on the pill, but got pregnant while taking it. They ended up losing that baby, and were so grieved that, through prayer, they decided to 'give that area of our life to the Lord,' letting God decide on when and how often they would have kids. They've passed on those lessons to their 19 children. Eldest son Josh, 31, already has five kids, and his wife Anna is now pregnant with their sixth. All smiles: Most of her married cousins have already had babies, including Joy-Anna Duggar, 21, who is already expecting her second with her husband Austin Forsyth, 25 Another on the way! Kendra, 20, is also pregnant with her second. She is married to Joseph, 24 Another! Jessa and her husband Ben, who already have three-year-old Spurgeon and two-year-old Henry, are also expecting again Big brood: Josh and Anna Duggar expecting a sixth. They already have nine-year-old Mackynzie, seven-year-old Michael, five-year-old Marcus, three-year-old Meredith, and one-year-old Mason Jill, 27, who is married Derick Dillard, has two sons: three-year-old Israel and one-year-old Samuel. Jessa Duggar, 26, has a three-year-old son named Sprugeon and a two-year-old son named Henry with her husband Ben Seewald, and they are expecting a third. Joy Anna has a one-year-old son named Gideon with her husband Austin Forsyth, and they are expecting a second. Joe, 23, has a son named Garrett with his wife Kendra, who is already pregnant again just ten months after their first baby was born. Only newlyweds John David, 29, and Abbie, 26, have yet to announce a pregnancy, with 22-year-old Josiah Duggar's wife Lauren, 19, having revealed she suffered an early miscarriage. No longer on the show: Jill, who married Derick Dillard in June of 2014, has two sons, three-year-old Israel and one-year-old Samuel Lots of babies: Jinger, 25, has an nine -month-old daughter named Felicity with her husband Jeremy Vuolo Josiah, 22, and his wife Lauren, 19 announced earlier this year that they were expecting last fall, but Lauren suffered a miscarriage in the early weeks of pregnancy They do: Newlyweds John David, 29, and Abbie, 26, have yet to announce a pregnancy Amy, though, has always been more secular with her behavior than her much more religious cousins. For one, she told People in 2016 that she and Dillon were using birth control in order to make as much of their married life together before they have children. Amy also didn't follow the same strict courting rules as her cousins. In Jim Bob and Michelle's household, physical contact between sexes is almost completely off-limits until the wedding. Grown Duggar kids don't date in the modern sense, but might meet and get to know a member of the opposite sex through group events. If there is mutual interest, a boy and girl might begin a courtship, which the Duggars describe as 'dating with a purpose' that purpose, of course, being marriage. During that time, all interaction is chaperoned, and Jim Bob and Michelle even supervise text messages. The closest physical contact is a 'side-hug,' which prevents chest-to-chest contact. Upon getting engaged, dates are still chaperoned but couples are allowed to front-hug and hold hands. Still, kissing and any other physical contact is a no-no until vows are exchanged. Amy's been labeled the 'rebel' of the family, and her approach is more modern. Rebel Duggar: Amy was raised a bit differently from her very religious cousins, and has also been pictured in bikinis, which don't meet her cousins' modesty standards Normal: Though Amy, who is also a Christian, doesn't mind showing some skin, her female cousins swim in long shorts and T-shirts 'I think kissing before marriage should happen,' she told People in 2016, admitting that she'd lost her virginity before marriage, too but not to Dillon. Though she and her husband waited to have sex with one another until they said 'I do,' Amy said at the time that she didn't regret having sex before marriage. 'I think that if I was a virgin on my wedding night and had never been kissed, I would end up rocking in the corner!' she said, adding: 'That is so much emotion all at once.' Now, the couple isn't shy about discussing their sex lives, and both opened up about how they like to 'keep it wild' in the bedroom in this latest chat. 'Every now and then, got to make it a thing, right?' Dillon told People of introducing romantic touches like candles and a fire. 'I cant do it repetitively because it gets too built up, shes used to it. Then its like, how am I going to top that now, right?' 'He does like candlelight,' added Amy. 'I have a built-in masseuse as a husband. Hes incredible.' Summer holidays are on the way people and we could not be more excited. There may be a few weeks to go but we're already scouting out the best swimsuits, shopping for sandals and planning our warm weather wardrobe. As far as we're concerned you can't start planning what to pack soon enough. And while we're all over the vacation clothes bit, we're turning to the SS19 catwalks for accessory inspiration. Make sure you've got all the below in your holiday arsenal and you'll be a style star on the beach this summer. Headgear Heroes It was all about headgear on the SS19 runways of Chanel, Kate Spade and Tory Burch This summer you're just not going to be on trend if you're not rocking some kind of headgear. But the good news is you've got plenty of choice. Straw hats remain a summer staple with Chanel and Tory Burch both creating shade with their headgear. And there were fresh takes on the usually unflattering swimming cap at Chanel, Valentino and Christian Dior Couture, but to be honest we'll be more likely to try the silk headscarf look done to great effect at Kate Spade. Styled with oversized retro shades, it's so chic it hurts. She Sells Sea Shells Shell-tastic necklaces and belts were paraded down the runway at Altuzarra Remember when you were little and would collect shells on the beach? Well Joseph Altuzarra has put his shell collections to good use making pretty necklaces and belts which he featured in his SS19 line. And he wasn't the only one who'd been picking up shells and making them into jewellery. Anna Sui also showed shell necklaces while Gucci, Bevza and Chloe used shells as a motif in bags, buttons and trousers. So get beachy in more ways than one with sea shells from the sea shore. Shades from the Future The Matrix is real and we're all living in it! Shield your eyes from the sun in huge visor shades Last year it was all about teeny tiny sunglasses. The likes of Bella Hadid and Kendall Jenner could be found rocking sunglasses so small they surely weren't protecting their eyes from the sun at all. But this year fashion has taken us to the opposite end of the shades spectrum, with an array of frankly enormous frames that don't just cover the eyes but pretty much the whole face. From Gucci to Tod's and Rick Owens to Loewe, it's all about sunglasses as armour this season. So when you're shopping just remember, the bigger the better. Geography Teacher Sandals Sturdy sandals are the only footwear to be seen in... So say Monse, Sacai and Michael Kors What is it about geography teachers that inspires them to wear ugly sandals and more often than not, wear with them with socks? But more importantly, what is it about fashion that's intent on taking unattractive items and making them cool? The bumbag anyone? But as ever the style gurus that are designers have managed to convince us that geography teacher chic is a thing. So get ready to rock practical, sturdy sandals all summer long. Your feet will thank you at least, even if your boyfriend doesn't. Bohemian Bags Get knotted this summer with rope detail bags as seen at Chanel and Altuzarra Beach bags are a holiday must-have so give yours a bit of an upgrade. Straw is still big but the runways were awash with knotted rope styles for SS19 so why not take inspiration for your arm candy collection? Chanel made them multi-coloured while Altuzarra added yet more shells from its clearly huge collection for a truly beachy look. Opioids account for a quarter of pregnancy-related deaths in Utah, according to a new study. The rate of women dying shortly before or after giving birth in the US is staggering, higher than in any other developed country. Overwhelmingly, heart disease is to blame, but each state has its own unique set of problems. New research by Dr Marcela Smid at the University of Utah shows Utah, which has one of the highest maternal mortality rates in the country, is particularly blighted by drug use after delivery. Most of the deaths (80 percent) were months after childbirth, when mothers have typically stopped seeing their doctor for follow ups. A quarter of deaths were caused by drugs, mainly opioids 'Death is the tip of the iceberg for moms who deal with addiction, these are the women that we can see,' said Marcela Smid, MD, an assistant professor of maternal and fetal medicine at U of U Health and first author on the paper. 'The point of this study is to determine when our moms are most vulnerable, and it's the postpartum period.' The opioid epidemic has blighted the US, lowering the life expectancy and killing more Americans in one year than died in the entire Vietnam War. It all started with soaring rates of prescriptions for highly-addictive painkillers, which began in the 1980s and reached a height in the early 2000s. Opioid use soared in every demographic, including the most vulnerable. Around 14 to 40 percent of pregnant women will receive an opioid prescription during their pregnancy to treat migraines, joint pain, and back pain, among other things, and millions of women are prescribed opioids for pain after delivery. It's particularly a problem in Utah, where nearly half (42 percent) of the state's pregnant women on Medicaid had received an opioid prescription - more than any other state. Dr Smid's new study looked at data on women who died while pregnant or within a year of giving birth between 2005 and 2014. They identified 136 deaths that fit the criteria. Most of the deaths (80 percent) were months after childbirth, when mothers have typically stopped seeing their doctor for follow ups. A quarter of deaths were caused by drugs, mainly opioids - more than the rates for blood clots and car accidents combined. None of them had been screened for drug use, only a quarter had received counseling, and none were on methadone or buprenorphine to treat addiction. Most of them (57 percent) died at home. During the study time period - the years that led to the climax of America's overdose epidemic - the ratio of drug-related deaths during pregnancy soared 200 percent. The finding adds weight to the recent recommendation from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists: that we should recognize there are four trimesters to pregnancy, rather than three, including a mother's recovery post-partum far beyond the six-week cut-off point currently in place. 'We need to really look at fourth trimester care and how to enhance this care, especially women with substance use,' Dr Smid said. For women who struggled with drug use before pregnancy, the post-partum period can be particularly destabilizing. Most women reduce their drug intake during pregnancy whether they suffered from addiction or not. As a result, those who return to substances after nine months off, may have a much lower tolerance than they expect. What's more, there are hormonal changes, postpartum depression, stress and sleep deprivation from infant care, strain of intimate relationships and loss of insurance - pressure which can drive people to self-medicate with numbing pills. 'We cannot do anything for the moms who died, but as a health care institution, we can identify the holes in care and plug them,' Dr Smid said. 'We need to develop an addiction-knowledgeable obstetrics workforce.' Dr Smid warns that these results are not unique to Utah. But researchers have struggled to map out the details of the maternal mortality crisis in each state and across the country. The bodies that collect national data (including the CDC, WHO, ACOG and IHME) have each published wildly varied numbers and hypotheses. This is largely to do with the inconsistency in how states record mothers' deaths, a recent feature by Scientific American points out. Each state differs in what qualifies as a pregnancy-related death. While some (as Smid does in this study) comply with the CDC's definition of pregnancy-related death as extending up to a year after birth, some only count a few months. What's more, many states have been inconsistent in even collecting data at all. As is the case for many states, Utah has only been reviewing mothers' deaths since 1995. There is no regularity to its reports. Until 2004, the state only analyzed deaths related to weight and age. The latest report, in 2017, was brief, with a list of causes of death and the death rate, but no analysis or detail. People who have their appendices taken out may be at higher risk of developing Parkinson's disease later in life, new research suggests. A Case Western Reserve University and University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center study of over 62 million patients found who that had had the operation were at a three-fold greater risk of developing Parkinson's. Worldwide, over 10 million people have Parkinson's disease, a devastating neurological disease with no cure and struck comedian Robin Williams before his 2014 suicide. The newly discovered link between the appendix and Parkinson's may provide a clue about when, where and why Parkinson's starts to develop. The appendix may hold a key to understanding Parkinson's as those who had the tubule removed were three times more likely to later develop the devastating brain disease Around 300,000 Americans have their appendices removed each year, either because the organ - long thought superfluous - has ruptured or to prevent the emergency situation. According to the new study, nearly 2,800 of them might develop Parkinson's. When Ohio-based researchers analyzed data on 62.2 million Americans, they found that 488,190 had undergone surgeries to removed their appendices. Out of those, 4,470 were later diagnosed with Parkinson's disease, representing nearly one percent of the group. That isn't a terribly high proportion, but it is significantly more than the 0.29 percent of the 61.7 million who still had their appendices, but developed Parkinson's. Scientists aren't entirely sure what the appendix has to do with a brain disease, but the latest research suggests that they're on the right trail as they follow a particular protein. 'Recent research into the cause of Parkinson's has centered around alpha synuclein, a protein found in the gastrointestinal tract early in the onset of Parkinson's,' says Dr Mohammed Sheriff. 'This is why scientists around the world have been looking into the gastrointestinal tract, including the appendix, for evidence about the development of Parkinson's.' Only after a patient's death, clumps of alpha synuclein, called Lewy bodies, can be seen via autopsy in the brain. But in 2003, a German team of scientists suggested that Parkinson's might begin in the gut, not the brain, because they had found similar protein clumps in the digestive tracts of deceased Parkinson's patients. Although the gut-brain connection had first been demonstrated at the turn of the 20th century by Ivan Pavlov, the concept gained renewed traction in 2004 when an experiment revealed mice without gut bacteria had radically different stress responses than those with gut bacteria. On the hunch that Lewy bodies might travel from the gut to the brain along the vagus nerve (the nervous system's interstate between the distant parts of the body), international researchers dove into the gut to look for ways they might be able to detect, treat or even stop Lewy bodies from getting to the brain. Doctors consider the appendix - a dead-end tube that sort of hangs off the large intestine - a largely useless internal appendage. But recent research has suggested it might have a purpose: helping to fight off infection. And the link between its removal and significantly higher rates of Parkinson's disease suggests that the long-dismissed body part might serve a higher purpose still. 'This research shows a clear relationship between the appendix, or appendix removal, and Parkinson's disease, but it is only an association,' said Dr Sheriff. 'Additional research is needed to confirm this connection and to better understand the mechanisms involved.' A YouTube star who is allergic to water has revealed she can't sweat, cry or wash herself without breaking out in painful rashes. Niah Selway has aquagenic pruritus, which causes her body to burn for 'hours on end' if her skin comes into contact with water. The 21-year-old, from Hastings, East Sussex, said the burning lasts for hours and she often passes out from exhaustion following a reaction. She said the condition, which has no known cause and is difficult to diagnose, has even left her housebound. When she cries, her tears bring out a painful rash, and long soaks in the bath are out of the question because they trigger burning inflammation. Ms Selway's organs are not affected by the disorder, meaning she is still able to drink water. She said: 'It doesn't matter where the water touches me, if a drop touches my arm the pain will spread to my back and torso, sometimes to my whole body. Niah Selway from Hastings, East Sussex, suffers from aquagenic pruritus, which causes her 'whole body to burn for hours on end' if her skin comes into contact with water The 21-year-old (pictured with her boyfriend Mark) said the burning lasts for hours and she often passes out from exhaustion following a reaction 'When I have a bath my whole body burns for hours on end. Over time I worked out a routine, either way it's painful but I have found ways to make it a little less traumatic. 'For instance, I don't wash my hair in the bath anymore, I do it separately to feel less pain. 'There are so many things people don't think about, such as sweat and tears. 'Sometimes I'll have a reaction on my body, I'll start crying because of it and have one on my face too.' The YouTube star's thigh after breaking out in painful blotches (left) and a rash spreads on her hand after coming into contact with water (right) Ms Selway's organs are not affected by the disorder, meaning she is still able to drink water The vlogger, who has 130,000 subscribers on YouTube, said she's too scared to go outside in the rain because the reaction on her skin is so severe. She's been forced to quit her job at an insurance company while she battles the condition. She said: 'I am suffering in a really severe way, and no medication or treatment has had any substantial effect. 'It is basically a disability because of the things I can no longer do. In the morning I get to the toilet and I'll have an allergic reaction to the first thing I do. WHAT IS AQUAGENIC PRURITUS? Aquagenic pruritus causes its sufferers to experience intense itching when they come into contact with any water. Its cause is unclear but may be a side effect of conditions such as polycythemia vera, which is a type of blood cancer. Aquagenic pruritus may also occur as a result of increased circulating histamine levels or as a side effect of certain medications. There is evidence the disorder may run in families. The condition's prevalence is unknown. Such itching most commonly occurs on the legs, followed by the arms, chest, back and abdomen. Treatment is challenging due to the disorder being poorly understood. Therapies often include antihistamines, pain relievers and UV-based treatments. Source: National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences Advertisement 'I also can't do much exercise apart from yoga and walking because I can't sweat, and on hot days I'll have to be stuck in front of the fan. My day is working around my pain. 'The thought of rain is also terrifying, so I never go outside if there's the chance it's going to rain. 'I am in my own little bubble trying to deal with the pain, and I do what I can whenever it stops.' Aquagenic pruritus causes sufferers to experience intense itching when they come into contact with any water. Its cause is unclear but may be a side effect of conditions such as polycythemia vera, which is a type of blood cancer. Aquagenic pruritus may also occur as a result of increased circulating histamine levels or as a side effect of certain medications. There is evidence the disorder may run in families but its prevalence is unknown. Such itching most commonly occurs on the legs, followed by the arms, chest, back and abdomen. The itchy reaction is caused by the release of histamine in response to the contact of water on the skin. Treatment is challenging due to the disorder being poorly understood. Therapies often include antihistamines, pain relievers and UV-based treatments. Ms Selway experienced her first reactions at the age of five, and said the symptoms only got worse as she got older. She added: 'Initially it would happen about every ten showers. The doctors weren't showing any concern for it, so I thought maybe I am just not good at dealing with pain. Ms Selway tragically revealed her most treasured memory was scuba diving in Tenerife in 2013 (pictured) before her condition deteriorated 'Then in my teens it became every single shower or bath, and it got to the point where I wasn't able to ignore it. 'Most people with aquagenic pruritus seem to find some sort of treatment, whereas for me nothing has worked. It's difficult to see someone else find relief while it just won't work on you.' The YouTuber said her most treasured memory was scuba diving in Tenerife in 2013 and revealed her agony at never being able to do it again. She added: 'A lot of plans for my bucket lists were water-related things, like swimming with sharks. Skin on the vlogger's leg goes scaly and flakes off after one of her reactions. Ms Selway said sometimes she passes out from exhaustion after coming into contact with water 'But I gained the ability to enjoy small things and not to be focused on the future. I only have time for positivity and people I love. The YouTuber said she has accepted that her illness will prevent her from leading a normal life, but revealed she's being helped through her struggles by her parents Bob and Antonia and boyfriend Mark. She said: 'I stopped focusing on what's going to happen, and try to make now as positive as it can be. 'My family have been amazing, even in little things, like doing the dishes. 'They just take all water-related responsibilities away from me, and they have adapted their lives around mine. Ms Selway revealed she's being helped through her struggles by her parents Bob (pictured together) and Antonia and boyfriend Mark 'I always worried when my condition got bad that my friends would leave me because I couldn't do stuff with them, like going out and clubbing. 'But they are amazing, they are really understanding and make any effort to try and see me.' Dr Adil Sheraz, consultant dermatologist and British Skin Foundation spokesperson, said: 'Aquagenic pruritus is an uncommon and distressing condition that results in severe itching almost immediately after contact with water. 'Underlying causes remain unknown, theories proposed include breakdown of mast cells that lead to histamine and thus an itch. 'Although this is an uncommon condition it is probably under-reported and misdiagnosed.' A student who was born with a port wine stain across her face was often confused for an acid-attack or burns victim before undergoing 'life-changing' surgery. Ellahe Haghani suffers from Sturge-Weber syndrome, which causes abnormal blood vessels to develop in the skin and has left her blind in her right eye. Doctors in Iran refused to operate on Miss Haghani's blemish over fears a single 'scratch' to the lesion could cause her to 'bleed to death'. With the port wine stain swelling to cover her eyes, mouth and cheeks, the now 37-year-old endured years of people cruelly asking if her condition is contagious and even saying she should not be allowed to leave the house. But things started to look up when Miss Haghani, who is studying to be a nurse, was introduced to a surgeon who believed he could lessen her blemish in 2009. Miss Haghani flew to New York, where she now lives, for the first of 20 'debulking' surgeries, as well as laser treatments and skin grafts. Although the blemish is still visible on her nose and forehead, the operations have given Miss Haghani a newfound confidence, with her hoping to settle down and start a family. Ellahe Haghani was born with a port wine stain across her face and was often confused for an acid-attack victim. She is pictured left after her second or third 'debulking' surgery. The now 37-year-old is pictured right at 35. She recently underwent her 20th operation Doctors in her native Iran refused to operate over fears even a scratch to the birthmark would cause Miss Haghani to 'bleed to death'. However, in 2009 she was introduced to a doctor in New York who thought he could help. She is pictured aged 28 after her first operation Speaking of her condition, Miss Haghani said: 'When I was outside the house people were frightened, they didn't know what it was and were scared. 'Some thought I had a contagious disease, others thought I suffered from an acid attack or was burned. 'Horrible people told me I shouldn't come out in public and stay inside, but I didn't listen to them because it's my life.' Miss Haghani was repeatedly refused surgery in Iran, which caused her blemish to become more prominent. 'My family searched everywhere for a way to cure me, but nothing was available, all doctors said was that the lesions could not be treated surgically or medically,' she said. 'They feared that as soon as they touched my birthmark, that they wouldn't be able to stop the bleeding. 'Even from a scratch I risked bleeding a lot, doctors were scared to operate in case I died.' Desperate, Miss Haghani flew to Edinburgh at just 14 years old to undergo two years of laser treatment, which had little effect. And as she grew older, Miss Haghani's blemish continued to become larger and darker. '[At] the age of 26 it was so big and disfigured I became scared myself,' she said. Miss Haghani has Sturge-Weber Syndrome, which causes abnormal blood vessels to develop in the skin and has left her blind in her right eye. She is pictured in 2009 before surgery Miss Haghani is pictured left with tissue expanders in her neck to help rebuild her face. Now 37 and living in New York (right), she hopes to settle down and have a family She is pictured having dead skin removed from her face following one of her skin transplants Unable to tolerate her appearance much longer, Miss Haghani came across Dr Milton Waner, who specialises in facial surgery. 'Miraculously I found a surgeon in New York, willing to operate on my face, so I came here alone and had up to 20 surgeries,' she said. 'Dr Waner debulked all the extra tissue on my face and at the same time used the laser treatment to lighten the colour. 'Then I had skin-grafts on my check, my nose and then more on my eyelids to make my face look more natural.' Miss Haghani is thrilled with the results of her treatment, with her most recently undergoing laser therapy nine months ago. 'Now I realise how horribly disfigured I was, when it's your own face you get used to it and don't see yourself the way other people do,' she said. 'I'm so grateful to Dr Waner and everyone who helped me, it was a life-changing experience and I owe my new life to the people who helped me. Pictured left aged 20, Miss Haghani endured years of bullying from people who cruelly asked if her condition was 'contagious'. Pictured right at 16, her birthmark was already growing Miss Haghani still suffers headaches and glaucoma as a result of Sturge-Weber syndrome but is determined to remain positive and give back. 'I believe in myself, my face doesn't define me, what defines me is my abilities, what I do with my life and how I help other people,' she said. 'I went to nursing school, because I wanted to help others who are suffering; helping people makes me happy.' Miss Haghani even keeps a photograph of herself before her surgeries next to her bed. 'Every day I wake up and look at the picture to remember who I was and am now, so I have the courage to do anything I want now,' she said. Miss Haghani is pictured at 32 healing after one of her skin grafts. She still has laser surgery to prevent the blemishes reappearing, with her most recent treatment being nine months ago Miss Haghani's appearance has given her a newfound confidence. She is pictured recently With her newfound confidence, Miss Haghani hopes to get married and have children. 'I was a shy person before, but I still feel like I want to date someone, it has got to be someone who knows you very well and not just for your face,' she said. 'But I'm not giving up, I have lots of good friends and I'm sure there is someone for me. 'The people who know me, see me for more than my face and as someone who is determined to get whatever she wants. 'I have to prove everybody wrong who says I cannot do things, but as everyone who knows me believes - I am stubborn and never give-up.' A teenager born with 'half a heart' needed a pushchair until she was nine years old because she was so exhausted. Amber Harrison, now 15, was immediately taken away for tests when she was born blue in colour due to a lack of oxygen. She was diagnosed with a heart condition called pulmonary atresia, where blood cannot flow through the body because the heart's main right pumping chamber has not developed properly. It came as a complete shock to her mother, Zoe Harrison, 44, of Southend-on-Sea, who had enjoyed a text book pregnancy. Amber has since had to have three surgeries, including one when she was just a day old when doctors put a shunt in her heart. Due to her condition, Amber gets so tired she can only manage a couple of days at school and gets so cold she has, at times, had to wear a ski coat to stay warm. She can walk less than a mile before coming breathless - and no longer wanting to use a pushchair, her parents drive her everywhere. Currently waiting to see if she can have another operation, Mrs Harrison said her daughter is determined to succeed and said: 'She is my inspiration.' Amber Harrison, now 15, was taken away for immediately taken away for tests when she was born blue due to a lack of oxygen. Pictured not long after birth Amber was diagnosed with a heart condition called pulmonary atresia, where the heart's main right pumping chamber has not developed properly Amber needed a pushchair until she was nine years old because she was so exhausted. Pictured, in hospital aged eight having a checkup Mrs Harrison added: 'If I had this diagnosis, I'd just want to be in bed all the time, but Amber is determined to live life to the full.' Although Amber is desperate to attend school and study, it has not always been possible for her due to her sheer lack of energy. Mrs Harrison said: 'We've even been threatened with a fine at school if her attendance doesn't improve, which we find shocking. 'She's only able to do a couple of days a week at the moment, but she's still a high achiever. 'The biggest frustration for her, though, is people not taking her seriously, and thinking she doesn't know what she's talking about when it comes to managing her condition because she's a child when really, she knows better than anyone. WHAT IS PULMONARY ATRESIA? Pulmonary atresia is a condition where blood cannot flow between the right pumping chamber (right ventricle) into the lungs to pick up oxygen. Often, this is because the large blood vessel that carries blood to the lungs (the pulmonary artery) hasnt developed properly, and the right ventricle is smaller than usual. The valve linking the right ventricle and the right filling chamber (atria) may also be narrowed or closed. Pulmonary atresia is a form of congenital heart disease a term used to describe a problem with the hearts structure and function due to abnormal development before birth. These have a range of symptoms, which include: Excessive sweating Extreme tiredness and fatigue Poor feeding Rapid heartbeat and breathing Shortness of breath Chest pain A blue tinge to the skin (cyanosis) Advertisement 'They'll think it's just teenage tiredness, or encourage her to push herself that bit harder when really, she knows herself, and when she says she's exhausted she means it. She will literally have to rest for hours, not speaking, not moving nothing.' Mrs Harrison, who works for a train company as well as her husband, Lance, 48, had no warning signs of what was to come during her pregnancy. Born cyanotic - or blue - due to lack of oxygen at Southend University Hospital, Essex in January 2004, Amber's fragile state at birth was a complete shock. Mrs Harrison, also mother to Vaughan, 11, said: 'I had been in labour for hours and had haemorrhaged blood, so was in and out of consciousness. 'My memory is still quite hazy, but I remember being convinced that she wasn't going to make it, and panicking that she didn't have a name. 'I said to Lance, "We can't let her go without one". It was so shocking that I don't think I properly processed it.' Later that day, Mrs Harrison was wheeled down to see Amber in neonatal intensive care, where she was hooked up to all sorts of machines. From there, Amber was transferred to the more specialist Royal Brompton Hospital in west London, while her mother was forced to stay behind recovering. She said: 'I could hear all these other parents with their babies on the ward that night. By the morning, I was absolutely desperate to get over to Royal Brompton to see Amber. Amber's mother, Zoe Harrison, had no warning signs of what was to come during her pregnancy. Amber pictured with her father, Lance Harrison, in intensive care Born cyanotic - or blue - due to lack of oxygen at Southend University Hospital, Essex, in January 2004, Amber's fragile state at birth (pictured) was a complete shock Amber has had to have three surgeries. Pictured, age six in hospital with a virus Mrs Harrison said Amber is often mistaken for having 'teenage tiredness'. Pictured together 'Lance and I arrived there that afternoon and that was when we were given the official diagnosis. 'What Amber has essentially means that she has half a heart. But every case is different, so it was hard for doctors back then to predict the outcome. 'I was given all these leaflets to read to find out more, but I just wasn't ready.' Pulmonary atresia is a defect of the pulmonary valve, which is the valve that controls blood flow from the right ventricle to the main pulmonary artery. It develops in the womb. Around one in 180 babies in the UK are diagnosed with a heart defect at birth - an average of 12 per day. One in every 7,700 babies born in the US each year are born with pulmonary atresia. There are two types - pulmonary atresia with intact ventricular septum - which Amber has - and pulmonary atresia with a ventricular septal defect, which is a hole in the wall that separates the two lower chambers, or ventricles, of the heart. In Amber's condition, during pregnancy, very little blood flowed into or out of the right ventricle and therefore it didn't fully develop properly and is small. The heart can have problems pumping blood to the lungs and the body and the artery which usually carries blood out of the right ventricle. The main pulmonary artery remains very small since the pulmonary valve doesnt form. At just a day old, Amber had a shunt fitted to enable more blood to flow between her heart and lungs - staying in the Royal Brompton for the next three weeks, where she appeared to be thriving. At 11 weeks, she returned for her next operation a balloon valvuloplasty - where a hollow tube known as a catheter is inserted then heated to burn a small hole in the blocked valve. At just a day old, Amber had a shunt fitted to enable more blood to flow between her heart and lungs. Pictured with her family, mother and father Mr and Mrs Harrison, and brother, Vaughan Harrison, 11 Amber had her third and, to date, final round of surgery aged seven, to remove her shunt. Pictured before the operation in hospital Mrs Harrison said her daughter was very sociable growing up but struggled to keep up with her friend. Pictured on her ninth birthday Next, using X-ray pictures for guidance, a small balloon is put through the hole and inflated to stretch the valve open, before being deflated and removed. Amber had her third and, to date, final round of surgery aged seven, to remove her shunt. Growing up, Amber's condition meant that her energy levels could rapidly decline, and she also struggled with the cold. Mrs Harrison said: 'She's very sociable, but when her friends came round, she would tire quickly. 'She also needed a pushchair until she was about nine. I'd get all sorts of looks and comments. I don't blame people, as they didn't understand, but so many people said to us, "Why don't you get out and walk?"' Amber was off school intermittently from March July 2017 then full time September 2017 April 2018 when she attended school three mornings a week. Since September 2018 she has been going in as and when she can manage, Mrs Harrison said, keeping up with work with a small study group of friends. Mrs Harrison said: 'Where she's sensitive to the cold as well, she'd be in a full ski coat every year before the rest of us had even started wearing jackets.' For a long time, Amber was 'in denial' over her condition, according to Mrs Harrison, who said her girl just wanted to be treated like everybody else. But all that changed in August 2018, when she attended a weekend trip with charity Little Hearts Matter, who have been supporting the family since Amber was five. Growing up, Amber's condition meant that her energy levels could rapidly decline. Pictured in hospital having an exercise tolerance test, aged 13 For a long time, Amber was 'in denial' over her condition, according to Mrs Harrison, who said her girl just wanted to be treated like everybody else. Pictured together recently Currently waiting to see if she can have another operation, Mrs Harrison said her daughter is determined to succeed. Pictured, the family together Mrs Harrison said: 'That was a real turning point. She really bonded with some of the other children. 'The change in Amber's confidence has been amazing. She now has the power to say, "No, I'm tired" and accept when she needs to replenish her energy levels.' Now, though there is no cure for Amber's condition, she is currently waiting to hear if she needs more surgery, after a period of struggling with exhaustion. She is sharing her story as a new survey by Little Hearts Matter has revealed that young people living with 'half a heart' feel let down by society, with 47 per cent saying feel isolated and left out of activities. Some 70 per cent living with anxiety as a result of their condition. Mrs Harrison, who said Amber dreams of studying international business, said: 'To look at Amber, you'd never know there was anything wrong. But that can sometimes work against us, as people don't take her seriously. 'I wish people knew more about her condition so they would have more respect for what both she, and me as her mum, goes through. 'Still, I am so incredibly proud of her.' For information, visit www.lhm.org.uk Doctors have released medical scans of a 97-year-old's 'impressively' large food pipe that led to her death. The woman, from Texas, had a 'mega-oesophagus', when the food pipe dilates and becomes so large that it can rupture. For years, the unnamed woman had experienced regurgitation of food, chest pain, and difficulty swallowing food. Doctors initially prescribed medicine thinking she had a reflux problem, but she was suffering from achalasia. The rare condition can make it hard to keep food down because the muscles and nerves in the food pipe are damaged. If left untreated, it can lead to the oesophagus getting so large the muscles cannot stretch anymore and food becomes lodged in the wrong places. In the woman's case, her death was caused a lung infection when pieces of decaying food were inhaled into the lungs. Doctors from Texas have released scans in BMJ Case Reports of a 97-year-old's 'impressively' large and dilated food pipe that led her death A normal CT scan of the chest. For years, the woman had been experiencing regurgitation, chest pain, and difficulty swallowing food. She eventually died from a lung infection when pieces of decaying food were inhaled into the lungs Megaoesophagus is a severe complication of achalasia, where food is hard to keep down because the muscles and nerves in the food pipe are damaged. A transverse image of the CT scan A scan of her chest showed that her oesophagus was larger than a normal width of around 1.5 to 2cm (one inch) Doctors at Baylor Scott and White clinic in Temple told the story, titled 'Case of impressive mega-oesophagus in medical intensive care unit' in BMJ Case Reports. Mega-oesophagus, which has a high rate of death, especially in the elderly, is a severe complication of achalasia. It is very rare, according to charity Guts UK, and achalasia affects one in 100,000 people a year in the UK. Statistics for the US are unclear. The woman, who had a history of high blood pressure, was first seen by doctors when she had a fall at home. According to doctors, led by Dr Waqas Aslam, she had been treated with medication for symptoms similar to gastro-oesophageal reflux disease - where stomach acid comes back up through the food pipe and causes heart burn. WHAT IS MEGAOESOPHOGUS AND WHAT IS THE CAUSE? Mega-oesophagus is when, over a long period of time, the oesophagus continues to dilate until it becomes severely enlarged and the muscles cannot stretch anymore, sometimes causing the oesophagus to tear or burst. Symptoms can include sudden onset abdominal/chest pain, bringing up blood and becoming very unwell very quickly. It is a medical emergency, and is a very rare complication of achalasia. Figures on how uncommon it is are unclear. Achalasia is uncommon in itself, with an incidence of one in 100,000 new patients affected each year in the UK. The disorder affects the nerves and muscles of the food pipe, mainly at the lower end where it meets the stomach. Achalasia hinders the passage of food and fluid down the oesophagus and entering the stomach which results in difficulty swallowing. There is no cure, but treatment can help relieve the symptoms and make swallowing easier. Mega-oesophagus is associated with increased risk of aspiration pneumonia, severe malnutrition and electrolyte abnormalities, especially in elderly population, leading to significant morbidity and mortality. Source: Guts UK and BMJ Case Reports Advertisement But in the few weeks leading up to her fall, she had also struggled to eat anything because she had difficulty swallowing her food, a condition known as dysphagia. Because she had fallen onto her hip, she was rushed into various scans and tests. She had fractured part of the thigh, a common injury in the elderly, that needed to be operated on. But tests also revealed she also had dangerously low sodium levels and a urinary tract infection - due to her lack of food and blood pressure medication, doctors said. A scan of her chest showed that her oesophagus was larger than a normal width of around 1.5 to 2cm (one inch). Things suddenly began to go downhill for the elderly patient. After she had surgery to fix her hip, doctors explained that she developed a form of brain disease - encephalopathy - and respiratory problems, although it is not clear how. While wired up to machines having assisted breathing, doctors said: 'Repeat chest radiograph was again concerning.' As the woman's condition continued to deteriorate, they decided more tests were necessary. The doctors wrote: 'A CT of the chest was performed for further evaluation and revealed a markedly dilated oesophagus and a hiatal hernia.' A hiatal hernia is when the top of the stomach bulges through the large muscle separating your abdomen and chest. 'Endoscopy was remarkable for a massively dilated oesophagus', the doctors added. As they rushed to decide what was right for the woman, they also found her oesophagus was ruptured in places, contained mixed debris and had completely closed at the bottom - consistent with achalasia. The only option they had was to proceed with a feeding tube in the stomach, and the woman was discharged to a care home. 'Unfortunately, she passed away few weeks later due to aspiration pneumonia and severe debility,' the doctors said. 'Megaesophagus is associated with increased risk of aspiration pneumonia, severe malnutrition and electrolyte abnormalities, especially in elderly population, leading to significant morbidity and mortality.' Meditation is meant to make you feel calm and enlightened. But new research has found that one in four people had 'particularly unpleasant' experiences while meditating - such as feelings of fear and anxiety. The findings are an important reminder that meditation can sometimes have a negative impact - especially when meditation is seen as a potential solution to mental health problems such as feelings of stress, experts say. Men were more likely to report a bad experience than women, according to The University College London research published in PLOS ONE. The trendy practice, championed by Hollywood stars Emma Watson (left) and Angelina Jolie (right), has rocketed in popularity in recent years as scientists uncover its benefits Lead author, Marco Schlosser, a psychiatry researcher at UCL, said: 'These findings point to the importance of widening the public and scientific understanding of meditation beyond that of a health-promoting technique. 'Very little is known about why, when, and how such meditation-related difficulties can occur: more research is now needed to understand the nature of these experiences. 'When are unpleasant experiences important elements of meditative development, and when are they merely negative effects to be avoided?' The 1,232 participants in the study answered the following question: 'Have you ever had any particularly unpleasant experiences (e.g. anxiety, fear, distorted emotions or thoughts, altered sense of self or the world), which you think may have been caused by your meditation practice?'. Ancient practitioners of meditation were aware of potential downsides. Classical Buddhist literature discusses potential pitfalls of mindfulness and meditation, such as makyo (hallucinations) and 'Zen sickness' - a sense of imbalance and loss of identity WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF MEDITATION? Meditation can be traced back to as early as 5000 BC. It is associated with some philosophies and religions but is practiced as a secular, stress-relieving activity more and more. A recent study revealed that meditation can reduce one's risk of heart disease by decreasing risk factors that can lead to the illness. Specifically, it found that the practices can lower one's blood pressure and their anxiety and depression levels. It can also help people quit smoking, which can lead to a fatal heart attack. Experts are warning that healthy lifestyle changes such as being more physically active are still the surest way to ward off the disease, but adding that meditation can also decrease one's chances. Advertisement Meditators also reported how long they had been practicing meditation and the frequency of practice, whether they had attended a meditation retreat at any point in their life and what form of meditation they practiced. Of the participants, one in four (25.6 per cent) indicated that they had previously encountered particularly unpleasant meditation-related experiences. Male participants were more likely to have a bad experience (28.5 per cent), compared to 23 per cent of female participants. Religious people were less likely to have 'unpleasant' experiences with just one in five (20.3 per cent) having a bad experience compared to 29.2 per who were not religious. Mr Schlosser added: 'Most research on meditation has focussed on its benefits, however, the range of meditative experiences studied by scientists needs to be expanded. It is important at this point not to draw premature conclusions about the potential negative effects of meditation.' The study did not assess possible pre-existing mental health problems, which could have confounded the prevalence estimate of particularly unpleasant meditation-related experiences. Ancient practitioners of meditation were aware of potential downsides. Classical Buddhist literature discusses potential pitfalls of mindfulness and meditation, such as makyo (hallucinations) and 'Zen sickness' - a sense of imbalance and loss of identity. San Francisco officials are investigating a doctor and outspoken vaccine skeptic on suspicion that he is handing out illegal exemptions from the shots amid the measles outbreak sweeping the US. Dr Kenneth Stoller, a San Francisco physician of 'hyperbaric medicine', has been subpoenaed to turn over redacted versions of his patient files. City Attorney Dennis Herrera announced Wednesday that his office is launching an inquiry into whether Dr Stoller 'violated state nuisance laws by providing medical exemptions for patients who didn't qualify for them.' The subpoena comes amid the nationwide measles outbreak that has sickened 764 Americans, including 42 in California, and Herrera warned that inappropriate exemptions put at-risk children 'in real danger.' Dr Kenneth Stoller (left) has been an outspoken vaccine critic and some websites suggest visitors go to him if they need 'help obtaining medical exemptions.' San Francisco City Attorney Dennis Herrera (right) has subpoenaed Dr Stoller's patient files on suspicion his exemptions put at-risk kids 'in real danger' Earlier this year, Dr Stoller and other California doctors came under fire on suspicion that they were advertising and selling improper vaccine exemptions. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that all children get two doses of the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine - the first between 12 and 15 months of age and the second between four and six. Shots are federally recommended, but not mandated. It is up to states to decide legal requirements and exemptions. States must allow religious exemptions in order to comply with the First Amendment, but 17 still allow children to attend school but skip the shots if their families have moral, philosophical or other objections to vaccination. California was among them until 2015, when it passed a law to prohibit philosophical exemptions in the wake of a 2014 measles outbreak that began at Disneyland and sickened 147 Americans. Now, City Attorney Herrera says his office suspects that Dr Stoller is in violation of that measure, Senate Bill 277 (SB 277). On Wednesday, Herrera accused Dr Stoller of helping to undermine herd immunity in his community. 'As a community, we have a responsibility to each other,' he said in a statement. 'There are children who have serious medical conditions that prevent them from getting vaccinated.' A community is considered broadly protected from measles if between 90 and 95 percent of people are vaccinated against the highly contagious disease. The scary thing is those are the kids most at risk when somebody engages in medical exemption deception, Dennis Herrera, San Francisco City Attorney That vaccination rate protects the small percentage of children too young to be vaccinated, as well as people of all ages with allergies and compromised immune systems. In California, for the 2017-2018 school year, the vaccination rate among kindergartners was 95.1 percent - enough for herd immunity, but marking a 0.4 percent decrease from the prior school year. But doctors who offer parents an arguably illegitimate way around SB 277 threaten those vaccination rates. Dr Stoller is featured in videos on the website vaccine-injury.info, claiming that vaccines cause autism. The website California Coalition For Vaccine Choice advises visitors to contact Dr Stoller or Dr Kelly Sutton if they 'need assistance obtaining a medical exemption.' Dr Stoller's attorney, Richard Jaffe said that patient confidentiality laws protect the physician from having to turn over his files and defended the exemptions his client writes in an interview with the Sacramento Bee. 'Now we have things like genetic testing, which provide additional information' Jaffe said. 'You can use that, and doctors could exercise their discretion' to decide whether a child's genes make vaccination medically unsafe for them. Dr Stoller has said that he offers free 23andMe genetic tests with two visits and may base his medical exemptions on the results, despite the at-home DNA testing company's clear statement that the product is not 'to be used to make medical decisions.' City Attorney Herrera has given the doctor 15 days to respond to the subpoena, and suggested that Dr Stoller's exemptions are tantamount to deceit. 'The scary thing is those are the kids most at risk when somebody engages in medical exemption deception,' Herrera said. 'If someone uses a medical exemption they dont qualify for and introduces unvaccinated children into that environment, the kids who legitimately cant get a vaccine and ultimately the general public are the ones in real danger.' Maria Carbonell was 28 weeks pregnant when she felt water trickle down her leg at work in March. She ignored it, but the same thing happened that night as she was getting ready to go to sleep. When she woke up in the morning, she was surrounded by a pool of water, reported CBS Miami. Her husband, Eric, rushed her to their local hospital in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, where doctors told her that her water had broken - 12 weeks before her daughter was due. The medical team decided that, to give the baby a chance to be more fully developed, they were going to keep her in utero for six weeks before delivering her. Maria Carbonell, of Fort Lauderdale, Florida, first felt water trickle down her leg at work in March, but ignored it. The next day, after waking up in a pool of water, she was rushed to the hospital. Pictured: Carbonell with her daughter, Savannah, left, and Savannah, right Carbonell (pictured) was told her water had broken at just 28 weeks' gestation, but doctors decided to keep the baby in utero to give her a chance to develop more fully Almost one out of every 10 infants in the US is born prematurely. A birth is premature if the baby arrives at least three weeks early - or prior to 37 weeks of pregnancy. Premature babies - or 'preemies' - suffer a greater risk of breathing problems, feeding problems and are more susceptible to contracting infections. Carbonell was quickly transferred to Salah Foundation Children's Hospital at Broward Health Medical Center. 'Everyone was just so positive,' she told CBS Miami. 'You know, they'd come into the room and kind of pretend like it wasn't what it was. Like this is normal.' Doctors treated her with antibiotics to prevent infection, magnesium sulfate - which prevent seizures in pregnancy - and antenatal corticosteroids. Antenatal corticosteroids are medications given to women who are experiencing preterm delivery. Studies have shown that babies born to women who have received the drug are less likely to have trouble breathing or suffer from infant respiratory distress syndrome. It also lengthens the amount of time before the amniotic sac breaks and delivery, so the baby can continue to grow. 'With the combination, a lot of women are able to keep the pregnancy until the baby is bigger,' Dr Adolfo Gonzalez-Garcia, an OBGYN at Broward Health Medical Center, told CBS Miami. Doctors treated her with antibiotics, magnesium sulfate and antenatal corticosteroids. Most women are given this combination for three to four weeks, but Carbonell was treated for six weeks. Pictured: Carbonell with Savannah, left, and her husband, Eric, with Savannah, right At 34 weeks, Savannah was born weighing just four pounds. She's since been given the all clear to go home. Pictured: Carbonell, left, with Eric Most women are given the combination of medications for between three and four weeks, but doctors kept Carbonell's baby in utero for six weeks. Her husband, Eric, slept on a bed in her hospital room for the 41 days she was hospitalized. Finally, at 34 weeks, Carbonell delivered her daughter, Savannah, weighing just four pounds. 'I still look at her and to think to myself it's like so surreal,' she told the station. The new parents say they're relieved that the delivery was smooth and that they finally get to go home. 'This was the first chapter. Second chapter was the NICU,' Eric said. 'Now our third chapter, and the long one, is going to be raising her at home. We have a great story to tell her.' Hepatitis A cases in the US have swelled by nearly 300 percent in three years, new Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) figures reveal. Between 2016 and 2018, 91 percent of the specimens the CDC tested for hepatitis A, compared to 87 percent of specimens from the 2013 to 2015 period. In total, about 15,000 cases of hepatitis A were reported to the CDC in the most recent period. Although hepatitis A transmission is often associated with men who have sex with men, in recent years the opioid epidemic has fueled needle sharing and increasing homelessness, which health officials say have led to the virus's spread. Throughout the US, hepatitis A cases have increased by nearly 300 percent, with increases of 500 percent or more in nine states and Washington, DC (dark blue) the CDC reports Between 2013 and 2018, hepatitis A cases increased or remained stable in 18 states. In nine states - Hawaii, West Virginia, Mississippi, Missouri, Arkansas, Indiana, Ohio, Kentucky and Tennessee - plus Washington DC, increases of about 500 percent were reported. The increases are particularly staggering because hepatitis A is an entirely preventable disease. THE 2019 HEPATITIS A OUTBREAKS IN THE US The period from 2016 to 2018, there were nearly 300 percent more hepatitis A cases in the US than in the previous three years. Cases have spiked by 500 percent in nine states and Washington, DC, with some notable outbreaks making headlines. THE ARIZONA OUTBREAK In May, health officials confirmed the state's outbreak had reached 200 cases. Arizona hasn't seen so many cases in a decade. The outbreak is primarily centered around Tuscon, where it has spread among the city's homeless population. HUNDREDS OF FLORIDA STUDENTS EXPOSED TO HEPATITIS A AT PROM Students from at least two high schools in Spring Hill, Florida were exposed to the virus at their prom. An employee of the venue, Silverthorn Country Club, was diagnosed in the weeks following the schools' dances. None of the students have been diagnosed with the virus, though health officials are encouraging them to get vaccines in case. THE CHOCOLATE-COVERED MARSHMALLOW OUTBREAK Modjeskas, popular chocolate- or caramel-covered marshmallows made by Bauer's Candies were recalled across the US in January. The recall came after an employee working in one of its facilities was diagnosed with hepatitis B. No reports of infections among consumers have been made. Advertisement Children in the US are supposed to be vaccinated against the virus between ages one and two, in two doses. But it isn't entirely clear how long the vaccine's protection lasts, though the CDC says that it should provide immunity for at least 10 years. In the nearly two-and-a-half decades since the hepatitis A vaccine was introduced in the US, overall incidence of infections has fallen. Yet intermittent up-surges have become more frequent and significant in recent years. 'A large population of susceptible, unvaccinated adults who were not infected by being exposed to the virus during childhood remain vulnerable to infection by contaminated foods (typically imported from countries with endemic HAV transmission),' the CDC report says. 'And recently, on a much larger scale, through behaviors that increase risk for infection in certain vulnerable populations, such as drug use.' Hepatitis is a viral liver infection that can cause nausea, vomiting, fatigue and abdominal pain. Unlike hepatitis B and C, it does not typically lead to chronic infection and liver disease, though it has proven deadly when left untreated, in rare cases. The disease typically spreads when people ingest infected fecal matter. This transmission route puts homeless populations and those living in unsanitary conditions particularly susceptible. And health experts in areas with particularly bad outbreaks suspect that the disease gets carried into restaurants and the food they serve by homeless populations. Hepatitis A may end up in these restaurants as a result of injection drug use as well. Although it most commonly spread through the fecal-oral route, the virus is, of course, also carried in the bloodstream. So when users of injection drugs like heroin share needles or use unclean needles, the disease can easily spread, suggesting to most health officials that the opioid epidemic underlies the increasing rates of hepatitis A as well. A 'fit and healthy' mother-of-two was forced to have her legs, right hand and left fingers amputated after developing sepsis. Lydia Galbally, from Rayleigh, Essex, was told she was suffering from asthma when she went to her GP complaining of having a chesty cough and wheezing 'for some time'. The 41-year-old was eventually rushed to hospital in September last year after she became short of breath and feverish. A series of tests revealed she was suffering from sepsis, which is thought to have come on due to untreated tuberculosis (TB). Mrs Galbally spent the next two months 'close to death', including 11 days in a coma while she battled multiple organ failure, a clot on her lungs and two emergency heart drains. Although she pulled through, Mrs Galbally, who is mother to a nine and 11-year-old, later lost various parts of her body to gangrene. Lydia Galbally had her legs, right hand and left fingers amputated after they turned gangrenous due to sepsis. She is pictured during her seven week stay in an isolation unit in Royal Papworth Hospital in Cambridge with her nine and 11-year-old children, who had to wear masks every time they visited her. The tip of her nose also became gangrenous but recovered Mrs Galbally (pictured with her husband Dan before the ordeal) developed septic shock from her sepsis, which caused her blood pressure to drop so low it cut off the blood supply to parts of her body. Her sepsis came about due to tuberculosis, which doctors dismissed as asthma Speaking of his wife's ordeal, Dan Galbally said: 'I'm so thankful to say she has survived against the odds. 'My wife Lydia, a fit, happy and healthy 41-year-old, and mum of our two young children, fell critically ill with sepsis and an underlying infection of tuberculosis. 'She spent 11 days in a coma on life-support close to death.' Mrs Galbally was 'eventually' referred by her GP for an X-ray, CT scan and bronchoscopy, which involves placing a tube with a camera on the end down a patient's throat to view their airways. Over the next three days, she 'deteriorated rapidly', forcing Mr Galbally, who she has been married to for 24 years, to call for an ambulance. Mrs Galbally was finally diagnosed with sepsis, which occurs when the body injures its own tissue in response to an infection. This then led to septic shock, which is defined as sepsis leading to dangerously low blood pressure. Septic shock is thought to have cut off the blood supply to Mrs Galbally's limbs, appendages and nose, which caused them to become gangreous. Mrs Galbally was transferred to the Royal Papworth Hospital in Cambridge due to it being 'one of the few hospitals which offered a life-saving machine called ECMO'. This uses an artificial lung to oxygenate blood and pump it around the body. After 11 days in a coma, Mrs Galbally woke to find the tip of her nose (seen left) had 'died' due to gangrene. Shocking pictures also reveal her totally black right hand (seen right). She opted to have her hand amputated due to the risk the wound would get infected; her nose recovered Mrs Galbally also opted to have the fingers of her left hand amputated after they too became gangrenous (pictured left). She also lost her legs below the knee after the tissue in her feet died (seen right). Despite losing her limbs, she beat the odds to survive the ordeal Mrs Galbally was put in an isolation room for seven weeks, where she spent more than a week-and-a-half in a coma, which she has no memory of. When she awoke, she found she had dry gangrene of the feet, hands and tip of her nose. Dry gangrene occurs when blood flow to an area of the body becomes blocked, while wet is caused by a combination of an injury and bacterial infection, according to the NHS. 'At one point during the first week, most of her face had turned a mottled blue/black, but thankfully, this reversed as the medicine dosages were reduced as she gained in strength,' Mr Galbally said. 'At one point Lydia had 15 different intravenous drips and lines going in and out of her body.' During her time in hospital, Mrs Galbally also endured kidney failure and lost more than 14lbs (6.3kg) in weight, as well as some of her hair. The TB infection also meant doctors had to 'continuously drain fluid from her lungs'. The damage means the organs will never reach full capacity again. It is unclear how Mrs Galbally caught TB in the first place. Mrs Galbally battled multiple organ failure, a clot on her lungs and two emergency heart drains. After an eight week stay in hospital, Mrs Galbally (pictured after the ordeal) was finally allowed home. She now requires physiotherapy, and needs her home and car to be adapted Pictured with her family during happier times, Mrs Galbally has had her fifth, and hopefully last surgery. She started her two month rehabilitation programme this week to relearn how to walk after her leg amputations have left her reliant on a wheelchair Doctors were initially not holding out much hope for Mrs Galbally's recovery, but 'against all odds, she began to recover.' She was finally allowed home in November, where she spent four months recovering. Nurses would visit every day to change the dressings on her previously gangrenous wounds. By February, medics became concerned the open wounds on her hands and feet would become infected. Mrs Galbally therefore made the difficult decision to have both legs amputated beneath the knee, as well as her right hand at the wrist, and each finger, and the tip of the thumb, on her left hand. Her nose recovered but has left scarring. The amputations were carried out during five operations in February, March and April. On April 25, Mrs Galbally underwent her fifth, and hopefully last, procedure. She began two months of rehabilitation therapy at Roehampton Hospital, London, this week, where she hopes to relearn how to walk. Mrs Galbally's husband and children are determined to get her back to her 'old self', with her first goal reportedly being to walk the youngsters to school again while holding their hands. 'Despite the clearly devastating and traumatic events of the last seven months, it is important to me to be able to tell you Lydia has been incredibly brave and outstandingly strong minded throughout,' Mr Galbally said. 'She has been, and remains truly inspirational and though she doesn't believe that about herself, she has shown what a truly remarkable person she is.' Mr Galbally is fundraising for his wife to have leg, arm and hand prosthetics, as well as private physiotherapy, and to have their home and car adapted to her needs. They raised more than 72,000 of their 250,000 target in just three days. Donate here. She hopes a surgery will allow her to be able to endure penetration Now she is receiving the correct medical care to help her achieve a normal sex life Until March of this year Sarah's condition went undiagnosed, and doctors dismissed it as 'anxiety' Even the slightest penetration felt like agony - whether it's sex or an OBGYN exam At age 19, Sarah started dating, but when things got intimate she was unable to proceed Sarah Bradley, 25, has Localized Provoked Vulvodynia (LPV), which makes inserting even a cotton swab or tampon unbearable A woman has described her agony trying to understand why she could never have sex because even the slightest penetration felt like 'pouring acid on an open wound.' Sarah Bradley, 25, has Localized Provoked Vulvodynia (LPV), which makes inserting even a cotton swab or tampon unbearable. Until March of this year Sarah's condition went undiagnosed, but now she is finally receiving the correct medical care to help her achieve a normal sex life. 'The pain is excruciating,' said Sarah who works as an office assistant in the ER facility in her hometown of Decatur, Illinois. 'It's a very intense burning, like pouring acid on an open wound.' People with LPV have extra high density pain fibers in their private parts so contact in that area feels horrific. 'I have never been able to tolerate more than half an inch of penis, an inch at most, because it's absolute agony,' said Sarah. Distressingly, doctors were unable to diagnose Sarah's condition until she was 24-years-old, telling her she was simply suffering from anxiety. 'I kept thinking 'if I calm down everything will be fine' but it never was,' said Sarah, who realized she had a problem at age 13, when she tried to insert a tampon for the first time. At age 19, Sarah started dating, but when things got intimate she was unable to proceed. 'It made dating almost impossible, the pain was intolerable and I would start associating the person I was seeing with pain, I just couldn't do it,' she said. 'A few guys I tried to date thought that they could cure me somehow*I think it's really appealing to the male ego to be the one who will fix it, take my virginity and make me enjoy it. Sarah, who has been dating her boyfriend Ethan for six weeks, says her condition made dating feel impossible because she wanted to be intimate but couldn't 'They would say things like 'it'll be different with me' and I'd be thinking 'good luck with that.' 'I have a high tolerance to pain, I ran a 10k race with a torn meniscus once, that pain was nothing compared to this.' Until March of this year doctors had always told Sarah that her condition was rooted in anxiety, so she began to doubt her sexuality. 'I was thinking 'what's wrong with me? Why can't I enjoy this? At one stage I even thought I might be a lesbian, maybe it's because men don't do it for me? 'So I tried to date girls for a bit in college but I found out I was definitely not a lesbian. I just wasn't attracted to women.' After years of frustration and crippling pain Sarah met a man who was supportive of her condition. 'I just explained it straight up and fortunately he appreciated my honesty,' she said. 'He's the only guy that has ever been patient and has understood what I'm going through.' On April 12, Sarah underwent surgery at the Decatur Memorial Hospital in Illinois to remove the high density pain fibers inside her vagina Sarah and Ethan, 28, have now been dating for six weeks. 'I view sex as an additional benefit of a relationship, not a key player. I would never want to make Sarah feel discomfort and it makes me happy to know she is comfortable,' said Ethan. Sarah said: 'We haven't even tried to have sex because I don't want to associate being intimate with him to the excruciating pain.' 'I can receive oral sex though, that has always been pleasurable. 'However, I've always felt uncomfortable with intimacy and sex with my previous partners because I knew our affection for each other would have led to pain. 'I then associated that person with discomfort and lost trust in them, because they were willing to cause me discomfort for their pleasure and ego. 'Ethan has been the only man I've dated who has been willing to wait altogether. 'Hopefully one day, sooner rather than later, we can try to show our affection for one another.' Thankfully Sarah visited a new gynecologist in March, who conducted a more thorough pelvic exam to define her condition accurately as LPV. 'He had to sedate me to do the exam because it was so painful,' said Sarah. 'Even when he tried to take a cotton swab, very lightly like the brush of a finger, it was utter agony. 'But it was such a relief to finally have a diagnosis. To finally learn that is wasn't all in my head.' Until March of this year Sarah's condition went undiagnosed, but now she is finally receiving the correct medical care to help her achieve a normal sex life On April 12, Sarah underwent surgery at the Decatur Memorial Hospital in Illinois to remove the high density pain fibers inside her vagina. She is still in recovery, but if the operation was a success then she may soon be able to enjoy a more regular sex life. 'They tell me that about two-thirds of women experience benefits from it, so I am very hopeful,' said Sarah, who is speaking out to help other women who have been misdiagnosed, or are too scared to seek help. 'My story is not uncommon, there are people out there seeing the wrong doctors who aren't diagnosing them properly and they not getting any relief. 'As someone who works in healthcare this subject is not 'gross' to me, I want to share my experience because it's a taboo subject, many women think their pain is normal, or just something they have to deal with. 'But no one should have to live with chronic pain, anyone suffering should get checked by a good doctor who will give them a thorough exam, it could really change their life.' Alarm bells over the health of Britain's private rented sector have been raised for the second time in two weeks, leading some to worry that a rental crisis is on the horizon. Figures released today by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors have confirmed that tenant demand is rising across the the country while the number of new landlords entering the market is dwindling. This extends a run of successive quarterly declines dating back to the middle of 2016 - already the longest uninterrupted sequence of falling landlord instructions since records started in 1998. The findings follow a Residential Landlords Association study released last week, which found that a quarter of private landlords are looking to sell at least one property over the next year. New figures show the longest sequence of falling landlord instructions since records began The future doesn't look bright for landlords Many landlords will have seen their profits slashed over the past three years at biting tax changes have taken their toll. All the indications are that the regulatory environment isn't going to soften up any time soon. Two pieces of legislation, one proposed and one incoming, are likely to have a further impact on landlords in the coming years. Tenant Fees Bill The Tenant Fees Bill, set to come into force from June and first proposed by Chancellor Philip Hammond in 2017 will see a ban on landlords and letting agents in England charging tenants any additional fees when they sign up for a new rental property. Fees will be limited to charges for replacement keys and late rent payments only. Security deposits will be capped at the equivalent of five weeks' rent, and holding deposits to one week's rent. Government analysis suggests tenants will on average save around 300 every time they move house as a result of the ban. It's likely that letting agents will pass some of these costs onto landlords, who in turn could raise rents to cover their higher costs. Section 21 The second is the proposed abolition of Section 21, which would ban 'no fault' evictions where landlords can give tenants notice without having to give a reason. That the Government looks minded to scrap this, has been seen as a major victory for campaign groups who have long argued that this would put an end to so called 'revenge evictions' by unscrupulous landlords. This is all great news for tenants, but not necessarily for property investors. Surveyors have suggested the lettings fee ban and the proposed abolition of section 21 could lead to more landlords exiting the market. A Rics spokesman said: 'We do not believe that the current proposed changes around Section 21 will help bring about the changes within the industry that the Government hopes, without significant and sweeping changes to the overall process including the courts.' David Smith, policy director for the RLA, said: 'All the talk of longer tenancies will mean nothing if the homes to rent are not there in the first place. 'If rushed and not thought through, planned changes to the way landlords can repossess properties risk making the situation even worse.' Either way, rents are projected to rise to by around 2 per cent at the national level over the coming 12 months, according to Rics, with growth then accelerating to an average of 3 per cent a year over the next five years. The Tenant Fees Ban and the abolition of Section 21 are likely to push more landlords out Is this good news for first-time buyers? Part of the Government's stated justification for buy-to-let reform over the past three years has been to decrease competition for people trying to buy their first home. And while it's difficult to tell exactly who is buying homes, there are indications that fewer landlords investing in property has benefited first-time buyers. Aneisha Beveridge, head of research at Hamptons International, said: 'Generally first-time buyers and landlords buy quite similar homes. 'In 2015, some 16 per cent of first-time buyers purchasing their first home faced a competing offer from an investor in London. 'However, since taxation on buy-to-let has increased and landlords are purchasing fewer homes, first-time buyers purchasing a home in London came up against an investor just 11 per cent of the time.' The UK as a whole has seen the same downward trend in first-time buyer versus investor competition, but London has seen a more significant drop off. A paper on the private rented market released this week by the Institute of Economic Affairs argues that constricting the supply of privately rented homes will only benefit higher income first-time buyers. Lender offers new way to rebalance a buy-to-let portfolio This week Precise Mortgages announced an innovative new approach to income assessment for portfolio landlords. Bank of England rules stipulate that landlords with four or more mortgaged properties must be able to show they can pass lender affordability tests across their whole portfolio. Precise has taken this measure and developed an affordability test that allows landlords to pass based on a blended rental income and loan-to-value of all properties in their portfolio that are mortgaged by Precise. This means that so long as the landlord's overall interest cover ratio meets the minimum requirements - typically 145 per cent at 5.5 per cent - and their overall LTV is below the lender's maximum, there is scope to include very low yielding properties in a portfolio so long as they are balanced by very high yielding properties. Landlords will therefore be able to use surplus rental income from their portfolio or other earned income to pass the lender's affordability test on each property. It could also mean landlords may now be able to remortgage rather than sell their low yielding properties. The lender is accepting top slicing on all eligible personal ownership, limited company, portfolio, HMO, and holiday and student let applications. Authors Rosalind Beck and Philip Booth argued: 'Restricting the supply of homes for rent will make renting more expensive for renters and is likely to reduce the number of let properties and increase the number of owner-occupied houses. 'However, this will only allow a small number of people at the margin to purchase a home. 'Those marginal buyers are likely to be a non-representative subset of people. It is likely that they will be richer on average than those who rent and whose rents rise because of the reduced supply and increased costs of renting.' What about the rest of the housing market? It's not just the rental market that is stalling; the owner occupier market has seen the lowest number of new instructions since 2016. House prices are under pressure, particularly in London and the South East, while the South West has now seen prices falling for the past six months. At the same time, Northern Ireland and Scotland continue to buck the trend, with respondents to the RICS survey reporting a further rise in prices. Brian Murphy, head of lending for Mortgage Advice Bureau, said: 'April's findings appear to be similar to those of previous months, with a diverging picture still evident as some regions continue to perform better than others. 'Interestingly, despite the broader geographical differences, the performance of various sectors of the market are adding yet further nuances, as demand for homes up to 500,000 appears to be holding steady, while many of those in the upper bracket of 1million or above appear to be finding the market challenging. 'One explanation for this could be that first-time buyers and family movers have decided to push ahead with their plans for this year regardless of the current political climate, while the more discretionary-led buyers, who would be purchasing luxury homes, are potentially taking a more circumspect view.' Yesterday, Halifax reported that average UK house prices rose by 1.1 per cent in April, compared to a 1.3 per cent fall last month. Year-on-year growth looks more muted however, with Nationwide's house price index indicating a 0.9 per cent rise in house prices in April compared to the same month last year. Robert Gardner, Nationwide's chief economist, said: 'Indicators of housing market activity, such as the number of property transactions and the number of mortgages approved for house purchase, have remained broadly stable in recent months, even though survey data suggests that sentiment has softened. 'While the number of properties coming onto the market has slowed, this doesn't appear to have been enough to prevent a modest shift in the balance of supply and demand in favour of buyers in recent months.' Brexit has not made the UK uninvestable as some more excitable analysts claimed during the past year of bungling but it has given investors a good reason not to bother with it. Britains stock market bounced as the pound fell in the wake of the vote to leave the EU, but has since ended up in the slow lane compared to major rivals. Even with the 8.5 per cent jump in the FTSE All Share index since dismal mid-December - when Santas rally failed to materialise - the UK remains relatively attractively valued. That might be good news for investors buying in now, but it has not done others holding some UK funds many favours -the most profile of which has been star fund manager Neil Woodford's Star fund manager Neil Woodford's flagship fund, inset, has suffered over the past year Woodford has seen plenty of criticism but defended his valuation-driven investing in a note last week, saying that some sectors of the UK market were undervalued. Other fund managers agree. With the market at the current level its actually quite an interesting point to invest in the UK, Fidelity UK Opportunities manager Leigh Himsworth told me on a recent Investing Show. He said that while there has been a hiatus in company investment, the economic backdrop looks quite positive, with low unemployment and rising wages. Valuation measures back this up back, with the cyclically adjusted price to earnings ratio or Cape as it is commonly known for the UK at 16, according to figures from Star Asset Management. This puts it among the worlds more reasonably valued stock markets and nearer its 25-year low of 11 than its high of 28. In contrast, the US market has a Cape reading of 30, high by historic standards and putting it among the worlds most expensive. Yet its worth noting that while buying cheap markets has proved a decent long-term investing strategy, patience is needed. It's not just Brexit, it's Corbyn too Of course, it's not just Brexit that is the problem. Investors are also worried by the prospect of Jeremy Corbyn and John McDonnell government that seizes a rare opportunity to usher in far more socialist policies than those in Labour's last election manifesto. Labour has made clear that it wants to bring back the 50p top rate of tax, introduce a new 45p one above 80,000, take 10 per cent of listed companies to give to workers and renationalise some industries. It would also be likely to overhaul inheritance tax and cut back on pension tax relief. Yet, this week rumours were doing the rounds of a 70 per cent top rate of tax and a 20 per cent one-off wealth tax above 1million or 2million. Labour denied having such plans but the fact that they are seen as plausible by those in the know indicates why a Corbyn government has investors worried. Cape is not a sharp market timing tool and those who bailed out when first warned about a high US valuation would have missed out on five years or so of roaring gains. One man who agrees that the UK looks attractive but who investors are losing patience with is Neil Woodford. The star fund manager put out a note last week reflecting on both his recent struggles and belief that UK-focused company shares will shake off their Brexit hangover. He sees a no-deal Brexit as now extremely unlikely and the odds having increased on a soft Brexit with a close long-term relationship with the EU. Woodford said: If Brexit pans out as I believe, we will see a long overdue and significant rally in sterling and this will have a meaningful impact on the UK stock market. It should at last liberate investors to start to acknowledge the underlying robust performance of the UK economy and the profound undervaluation of companies exposed to the UK economy. At the same time these developments will also prompt the market to start to address the significant earnings and valuation risks in parts of the index where investors have significantly increased exposure over the last two years. The Cape ratio map from Star AM shows in red countries with markets considered overvalued and in blue those considered cheap. Britain is at the cooler end of the readings Woodfords view is that this will hit big overseas earning FTSE firms but boost the shares of those in tune with the UKs domestic economy. This is broadly the reverse of recent market trends and Woodford defended his recent struggles in that light. He said: Although I have experienced some company-specific disappointments, the fund has underperformed primarily because my valuation strategy has been completely out of step with a momentum-driven market. While I would agree with Woodfords broad sentiment and point out hes a far better investor than I will ever be - I would question his judgement recently on some of those companies: Capita, Provident Financial and AA were surely accidents waiting to happen. I hold both Woodfords Equity Income fund and his Patient Capital Trust in my portfolio and have stuck with both I think patience was the right move with the latter but perhaps not with the former. The manager ended his note by saying that the rest of this year and 2020 would be interesting for the UK market. It will also be interesting for investors like me who have stuck with Woodford and those who abandoned ship, because over that time period well see if he is right. A female banker has won 150,000 from Royal Bank of Scotland following claims she was paid less due to her gender. Lucy Williams took legal action against the Natwest owner after discovering that a male counterpart doing the exact same job as her was earning 31,610 a year more. Trade union Unite, which supported Williams' claim, said her settlement with the bank could pave the way for a wave of other sexism cases. Victory: Lucy Williams took legal action against the Natwest owner after discovering that a male counterpart doing the exact same job as her was earning 31,610 a year more Williams, who worked on technology at RBS's investment bank Natwest Markets in the City, said: 'You realise something is wrong when you learn that your male colleague is the sole breadwinner in his family, supporting his stay-at-home wife and three children. 'On my salary at the time, I would never have been able to do that. 'It became increasingly apparent that we were on vastly different pay and benefits packages.' Williams raised an official grievance two years ago and was made redundant five months later, Unite said. The bank initially offered to settle if she signed a gagging deal, but she refused, according to the union. RBS eventually backed down three days before an employment tribunal and paid up, but left her free to speak out. Williams claimed the bank has a sexist culture. She said: 'My experience of working in Natwest Markets is that, if you want to succeed as a woman, you have to either give up or cover up the traditional responsibilities of a woman. 'You're not taken seriously if you're not ruthless or if you have childcare responsibilities and need to maintain a good work-life balance. 'Women aren't supported even by other women who collude in this unhealthy culture of discrimination.' RBS settled without a legal finding that they had discriminated against Williams. The bank said that the difference in pay between her and her colleague had nothing to do with her sex. A spokesman said: 'We take a fair and inclusive approach to setting pay and career progression and do not pay our colleagues differently for doing the same job because of their gender. 'In this particular case, although we don't agree with everything Ms Williams says and we don't agree that any difference in pay was due to Ms Williams' gender, we don't think we got things right in certain areas and therefore have agreed a settlement to resolve the matter.' Struggling fashion retailer Superdry has begun to worm its way back into investors' favour, despite issuing yet another profit warning. Shareholders seemed hopeful that its returning founder Julian Dunkerton, who pushed his way back into the company five weeks ago after orchestrating a boardroom coup, might be able to work some magic and boost Superdry's flagging sales. Revenue was flat for the year ending April 17 at 871.7m but showed a worrying 4.5 per cent decline in the last quarter. The retailer admitted profit would be below market expectations. Superdry blamed poor performance in its wholesale division, where its clothes are bought by department stores and other retailers to be sold in their shops. Dunkerton said too much discounting in Superdry's own outlets had led to reduced orders from wholesalers, although the company was also hit by its decision to stop sending products to several overseas retailers who already owe Superdry significant amounts. Knock-off pricing pushed down online revenue, while instore revenue slid 3.7 per cent to 373m year-on-year. Dunkerton, who had loudly criticised Superdry's former management for their 'misguided strategy', said: 'I am very excited about being back in the business. 'There's a lot to do, but after five weeks I am more confident than ever that we can restore Superdry to being the design-led business with strong brand identity I know it can be.' The driven boss said he wanted to increase the number of options sold online, fill flagship shops with more stock, cut back on promotions and design 500 new products in the next six months. Shares jumped as high as 4.9 per cent, before settling up 0.2 per cent, or 0.8p, at 481p. But shareholders weren't so hopeful for The Works. The discount crafts and stationery chain plunged 18.5 per cent, or 22p, to 97p, as it warned profit would be at the lower end of expectations. Even though revenue was up 13.2 per cent in the year to April 28, and use of its online click-and-collect service took off, The Works has fallen foul of the declining mood on Britain's High Streets. It said sales growth was likely to slip, after a year in which it cashed in on its eighth consecutive record Christmas period. Shares in Centrica, the owner of British Gas, also took a battering as it began trading ex-dividend meaning anyone who buys a Centrica share now will not be paid the latest dividend when it is handed out in June. The energy giant was down by 10.3 per cent, or 10.8p, to 94.2p its lowest level in 20 years. The dramatic tumble implies investors are doubtful that Centrica, which is due to pay an 8.4p dividend per share this year, will hand out such a generous sum in the future. The firm is struggling to maintain profitability after the Government introduced a cap on household energy bills, and it is battling to simplify its sprawling business. Its poor performance dragged the FTSE 100 down by 0.9 per cent, or 63.59 points, to 7207.41. Insurance firm RSA Group, which owns brands such as More Than, did a little to boost the blue-chip index as chief executive Stephen Hester said it was 'on track' to improve its underwriting. The company suffered from high weather-related claims in 2018, but has now withdrawn from certain business lines. Shares edged up 2.3 per cent, or 12p, to 546.4p. Elsewhere in insurance, Beazley was knocked by an increase in claims. It particularly had to pay up for Typhoon Jebi, which hit Japan, and the Woolsey wildfire in California. The FTSE 250 firm ended down 4.3 per cent, or 24p, at 538.5p. The boss of Goldman Sachs' Marcus savings brand in the UK hinted that the bank could potentially enter the cash Isa race next year. The move would see Marcus diversify beyond its easy access account, which shook up the market with a 1.5 per cent best buy rate. Des McDaid told Yahoo Finance that Marcus would 'likely' launch new products in 2020, and suggested joint accounts and fixed-term deposits along with tax-free savings accounts. Marcus was US investment banking giant Goldman Sachs' first foray into UK personal banking He said the savings arm of the investment bank 'haven't quite decided what our next product will be yet' but that 'it will be what we can deliver in a simple way to bring value to our customers'. Experts suggested that if Marcus were to launch an Isa, it'd likely be gunning for the top spot in the best buy tables once again, potentially offering rates as high as 1.55 per cent McDaid also revealed Marcus' easy access account, which has been praised for forcing rivals to up their rates since its launch last September, has signed up more than 250,000 customers in just eight months. He said: 'I think we came out of the blocks very fast as a business. Our first month was huge, it's settled down now but we're still growing fairly consistently.' Marcus was the investment bank's first foray into mainstream banking in the UK. The easy access account pays a table-topping rate of 1.5 per cent on balances of 1 or more, which drops to 1.35 per cent after 12 months. It's possible that a Marcus tax-wrapper account could have a similar effect on the Isa market as its predecessor had on the regular savings tables. Tax-free rates have been slowly inching up towards parity with regular savings accounts, and there was something of an Isa battle this year with some high street providers returning to the fold. More recently, building societies like Coventry and Skipton have also been trading places at the top of the best buy tables with a number of limited-time reward rates. However, they're unlikely to be able to compete with the firepower of the US banking behemoth. James Blower, founder of The Savings Guru, called McDaid's comments 'a very interesting development'. He said Marcus' launch into the easy access market dragged rates up 0.10 per cent and a Marcus Isa could have a similar impact. He added: 'My view is that Marcus have set their strategy for easy access by going in with a market leading rate. Therefore, I'd be surprised if they did anything different for Isas so, this could mean we see a new market leader.' He suggested that rate could potentially be as high as 1.55 per cent. Andrew Hagger, from personal finance site Moneycomms, echoed those comments and said; 'If Marcus launches an Isa it will be looking for the best buy spot again - it's a strategy that has served it very well on its inaugural savings product. 'I'd expect it to match or perhaps slightly improve on the 1.5 per cent best buy rate currently offered by Coventry.' This is Money asked Goldman Sachs last month whether it had any plans to enter the Isa market, and were told to 'watch this space.' A pregnant Florida woman was allegedly left alone in a jail cell for nearly seven hours after asking for help and eventually gave birth to her baby with no help. Tammy Jackson, 34, who suffers from mental health issues, says she feels 'blessed to be alive' after she was forced to deliver her own little girl last month. She told Local 10: 'It was horrifying. When she fell, I had to bend down to pick her up and tell her, "I'm sorry. I didn't mean for that to happen". She was still crying.' 'It was neglect, emotional abuse.' Public defender Howard Finkelstein has now demanded an immediate review of medical and isolation practices in a letter to Broward County Sheriff Gregory Tony after he says Tammy's cries for help were ignored. 'I am incensed and heartbroken after learning that a mentally ill client was forced to deliver her child alone in a jail cell. What happened to Ms. Jackson is outrageous and inhumane.' Finkelstein wrote. Pregnant Tammy Jackson was left alone in a jail cell for nearly seven hours after asking for help and eventually gave birth alone, her attorney said Friday. Other inmates, also pregnant women, say they heard Jackson's screams before she gave birth to Miranda Latrice Nixon Finkelstein said mother-of-three Tammy complained of contractions and bleeding in the early morning hours of April 10. A deputy is said to have seen her 'squatting and screaming in pain'. Jail staff attempted to contact an on-call doctor rather than take the woman to a hospital, the letter said. The doctor advised that he would check on the inmate when he arrived at the jail. Other inmates, some of whom were also pregnant, say they heard Jackson's screams before she gave birth to Miranda Latrice Nixon nearly seven hours later. Jackson 'was standing with a baby in her arms. I immediately, helped [Jackson] wrap the baby with a towel', a deputy said. Chief Assistant Public Defender Gordon Weekes said: 'Just imagine going through the trauma of delivering a baby, screaming for help, people are within earshot, and no one comes to your aid from 4 a.m., when the contractions start, until 10 a.m. All the while knowing people are in earshot. 'She was forced to crouch down and just catch the baby.' Tammy, who suffers from mental health issues, says she feels 'blessed to be alive' after she was forced to deliver her own little girl last month, calling it 'neglect and emotional abuse' Jackson's mother, Shirley Nixon, said her daughter suffers from bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. She said she thought Miranda was born in hospital The attorney wrote that the Broward Sheriff's Office was aware of the woman's pregnancy since her March arrest on drug charges. He said medical records indicate the baby was not premature or unexpected. The letter said: 'The birth was not premature or unexpected. Yet in her time of extreme need and vulnerability, BSO neglected to provide Ms. Jackson with the assistance and medical care all mothers need and deserve. 'Not only was Ms. Jackson's health callously ignored, the life of her child was also put at grave risk.' A sheriff's office report said a guard entered the cell after seeing the inmate with her newborn but didn't mention the earlier requests for help. A nurse and doctor entered the cell to check on the mother and child, the report said. They were eventually sent to a nearby hospital. No injuries were reported. The sheriff's office released a statement saying an internal affairs investigation was launched two days after the birth. Jackson remains in custody after she was arrested in January on drug possession charges. The Child Protective Investigations Section was notified, and the baby was placed with an appropriate caregiver, officials said. Jackson's mother, Shirley Nixon, said her daughter suffers from bipolar disorder and schizophrenia, adding: 'I figured she was born in the hospital. They didn't tell me none of this. Where were they?' An emotional vigil for one student who was killed and the eight who were wounded during the Denver school shooting turned into an angry protest Wednesday night. The vigil, held at Highlands Ranch High School, which is close to the tragic STEM School Highlands Ranch, was organized by student gun control group Team Enough. Democrat congressmen Michael Bennet and Jason Crow were invited to speak, while STEM students were invited to attend the vigil - one of two that took place yesterday. But, as the political speeches wore on, STEM students became frustrated that they had not been allowed to take the microphone and stormed out. More than 2,000 tearful mourners attended a Wednesday night vigil to honor the victims of a shooting at STEM School Highlands Ranch in a suburb of Denver, Colorado, on Tuesday A teen sobs into a friend's shoulder during the emotional vigil held one day after the shooting Teens embraced each other at the event organized by students with the Brady Campaign to Prevent Gun Violence and held at neighboring Highlands Ranch High School The tone of the vigil shifted dramatically as hundreds of students participated in a walkout Kendrick Castillo, 18, was shot dead whilst trying to tackle one of the gunmen during Tuesday's shooting. The aspiring electrical engineer had just three days left of school before graduation The students paraded out of the venue holding up lighted cellphones, chanting 'mental health' and shouting expletives at the media. They eventually made their way back into the gym where students were allowed to take the microphone and get their message across. 'What has happened at STEM is awful. But its not a statistic. We cant be used as a reason for gun control. We are people not a statement,' one said in footage broadcast by KUSA. Another added: 'We wanted Kendrick to be mourned. We wanted all of you to join us in that mourning, but that was not allowed here. We all walked out. We were not kicked out.' Tuesday's shooting was the 11th on an American campus so far this year and the fourth in Colorado since Columbine. Students stood outside in the rain holding lighted cellphones and chanting: 'mental health' Colorado State Rep Tom Sullivan, D-Aurora, center, applauds for speakers during the vigil Sen Michael Bennet (left) and Rep Jason Crow (right) both spoke about gun control at the vigil Two young women console each other as they gathered to honor slain classmate Kendrick An elaborate fake childcare scheme allegedly scammed $4 million in government childcare subsidies in just eight months. Red Roses Family Day Care purported to look after dozens of children in homes across Sydney, but police claim not a single one was actually in its care. Instead, the more than 150 members pretended to look after each others' children and claimed the rebate of up to $146 a week per child, police allege. An elaborate fake childcare scheme allegedly scammed $4 million in government childcare subsidies in just eight months with director Alee Farmann, 49, pocketing $60,000 a month Farmann's brand new Range Rover was seized along with large volumes of documentation, including business records, and two electronic control devices Rewards were so lucrative that director Alee Farmann, 49, allegedly pocketed $60,000 a month and drove a brand new Range Rover. The syndicate is accused of going to extraordinary lengths to conceal the operation that put bikie gangs to shame. 'We saw a level of sophistication or coordination in this that we don't see in outlaw motorcycle gangs,' Acting Assistant Commissioner Stuart Smith said. 'It created time sheets, it had photographs of children that were not in care. It had mock-up areas, it had an administrative structure and rostering - like anything else in a legitimate business. 'However, the whole thing was a fraud.' The whole alleged plot came crashing down on Wednesday when police arrested 18 people in 23 raids from southwest Sydney to Wollongong The syndicate is accused of going to extraordinary lengths to conceal the operation that put bikie gangs to shame Assistant Commissioner Smith said the company designed processes to evade authorities and 'defeat' physical and phone auditing by the NSW Education Department, which regulates the scheme in the state. He said if one site was audited, the rest of the syndicate would find out by the end of the day and get ready to comply with any subsequent audit. The whole alleged plot came crashing down on Wednesday when police arrested 18 people in 23 raids from southwest Sydney to Wollongong. All but one of the three men aged 24, 40 and 49, and 15 women aged 21 to 44, were charged - three with directing and 14 with participating in a criminal group. They included alleged ringleader Farmann, and Zina Mohammad, 44. One of the women allegedly had $35,000 cash in her handbag when she was arrested at her home in South Granville. The cash and Range Rover were seized along with large volumes of documentation, including business records, and two electronic control devices. The more than 150 members pretended to look after each others' children and claimed the up to $146 a week per child rebate, police allege The properties included one house that only had electricity for six days in February and never housed any children. More than 150 parents laid claims to rebate from the federal government - each one having between three and seven children - who could be next on police hit lists. 'There are legitimate children's names and entities they just weren't being cared for. The whole thing was a structured business,' Assistant Commissioner Smith said. 'What we've taken out yesterday were the (alleged) professional facilitators behind this syndicate and we won't rule out further interviews and we won't rule out further significant arrests.' Police discovered a number of 'vulnerabilities' during their investigation and are working with state and federal education departments to address them. Investigators believe there are many similar operations in NSW, and 29 people have been charged and 21 convicted in recent years. Burlington County Prosecutor Scott Coffina said 39-year-old Mark D'Amico, of Florence, was indicted on six separate charges related to the scheme A New Jersey man was indicted on charges stemming from his role in fabricating a feel-good story about a homeless man rescuing a woman from the side of a highway in order to scam online donors out of $400,000 in contributions, prosecutors said Wednesday. Burlington County Prosecutor Scott Coffina said 39-year-old Mark D'Amico, of Florence, was indicted on six separate charges related to the scheme. A message has been left with D'Amico's attorney for comment. Johnny Bobbitt and Katelyn McClure pleaded guilty in exchange for their cooperation with authorities. McClure, who is D'Amico's ex-girlfriend, pleaded guilty in state Superior Court in April to second-degree theft by deception under a plea agreement that calls for her to serve four years in state prison and help repay the $400,000. McClure must also testify against D'Amico. He has earlier denied wrongdoing. Johnny Bobbitt and Katelyn McClure pleaded guilty in exchange for their cooperation with authorities Authorities say the trio concocted the story that Bobbitt rescued McClure, D'Amico's then-girlfriend, from the side of a Philadelphia interstate in 2017 to enrich themselves Bobbitt, a homeless military veteran, was sentenced last month to five years' probation for his role in the scheme. Under his plea agreement, he will also help repay the money, according to prosecutors. The trio reportedly concocted the story that Bobbitt rescued McClure, D'Amico's then-girlfriend, from the side of a Philadelphia interstate in 2017 to enrich themselves. Authorities began investigating last year after Bobbitt sued the couple for allegedly not giving him the money. This November 2018 file combination of photos provided by the Burlington County Prosecutors office shows Johnny Bobbitt (left), Katelyn McClure (center) and Mark D'Amico (right) Bobbitt was sentenced to five years of probation. Bobbitt stands in the courtroom during his sentencing hearing at Burlington County Superior Court in Mount Holly, New Jersey on April 12 Katelyn McClure pleaded guilty in New Jersey on April 15 related to scamming 14,000 donors out of $400,000 with the use of a feel-good tale involving a homeless man buying her gas. McClure is pictured at Burlington County Superior Court in Mount Holly, New Jersey The couple claimed the cash would be donated to Bobbitt, but New Jersey authorities said the three split the money and spent lavishly, including on a BMW, designer bags, and trips to Las Vegas and elsewhere. McClure must testify against D'Amico. He has earlier denied wrongdoing According to prosecutors the couple was going through a hard financial time when they concocted the false story. The group solicited donations through GoFundMe, purportedly to help Bobbitt, and got significant attention with a media blitz that included posing for photos together, revisiting the spot where they claimed they first met, and appearing on 'Good Morning America.' In all, more than 14,000 people contributed. Prosecutors say the scheme 'was designed to pull at the heartstrings of caring, trusting individuals.' GoFundMe says it has refunded the money. McClure and Bobbitt also pleaded guilty in March to federal charges stemming from the scheme. D'Amico has not been charged in federal court. A woman has been let off with just a $250 fine after she stabbed a man in the head with one of her stiletto heels in a random attack during her 21st birthday celebrations. Jazzmin Fry used one of her shoes to attack stranger Kyle Johns, 19, in Brisbane's Fortitude Valley in the early hours of February 24. Mr Johns' scalp had to be stapled back together after he was left lying barely conscious on the pavement in a pool of his own blood. Jazzmin Fry used one of her shoes to attack stranger Kyle Johns, 19, in Brisbane's Fortitude Valley party district Mr Johns' scalp had to be stapled back together after he was left lying barely conscious on the pavement in a pool of his own blood Fry pleaded guilty to assault and was given a $250 fine but no conviction was recorded. Before the attack, Fry was filmed advancing towards Mr Johns, who is 1.95m tall, as he retreated. She took off her shoe and threatened him, asking: 'Want my f**king heel through your eyeball c**t?' Fry had worked as a property manager at real estate agency Ray White in Beenleigh before she was fired on Tuesday. 'It was a drunken act. It was my 21st birthday and it's not me. I don't know why I did that and I wasn't in the right mind frame,' she told Nine News. Mr Johns said Fry's punishment was insufficient. Mr Johns said he has not felt safe enough to go out with his friends in Brisbane since he was stabbed by Fry. Pictured: Mr Johns' bloody shirt after the attack '[She] comes to the middle of China Town with her heels in her hand and stabs me in the crown of my head,' Mr Johns said. '[I'm] devastated to be honest. If the roles were reversed would I be getting the same, pretty much a slap on the wrist?' His mother Susan was woken up at 2.29am and told her son had been attacked, and she feared he could have died. Fry said she has not been out drinking since the attack, but a social media post reportedly showed her with an alcoholic drink in her hand posing with friends before a music festival. Mr Johns said he has not felt safe enough to go out with his friends in Brisbane since he was stabbed by Fry. Ms Johns said she was 'very angry' at Fry's punishment, while her son was 'beyond angry'. Fry pleaded guilty to assault after the attack on Mr Johns (pictured) Recounting the night of the attack on her son, Ms Johns said it was 'every parent's worst nightmare'. 'I arrive panicked to the ER and the ambulance hadn't arrived. I'm then told ''he has been stabbed in the head'', now I imagine the worst and spiral - the emotions I experienced in 30 seconds can not be expressed,' Ms Johns posted to Facebook. 'Worst case scenario, he could have lost an eye, suffered an internal bleed or worse - death from head injuries.' A police officer who spent years having run-ins with the notorious Bra Boys gang has told of his encounters with one its most formidable members. Sergeant Ron Mason has lifted the lid on his stand-offs with gangster Tony Hines, whose reign came to an end when was found dead at the bottom of a cliff in 2003. The gang, which originated in Maroubra in Sydney's south-east, rose to local prominence in the 1990s after it had gained a reputation for street violence, drugs and other organised crime. Bra Boys gang member Tony Hines (pictured in prison in 1994) was found dead at the bottom of cliffs in Maroubra in 2003. He grew to be one of the gang's most feared members and had multiple stand-offs with police Over the years, Hines - who grew up in public housing in city's eastern suburbs - developed a grudging respect for Mason, and vice-versa, as a result of their frequent encounters. 'I lived in the eastern suburbs at the time (and) I'd met him a few times. (I'd say,) "Tony, how are you going?" and he was civil to me and nice, but I'd never turn my back on him,' Mason told True Crime Australia. Sergeant Ron Mason has lifted the lid off his stand-offs with standover gangster Tony Hines, including a time when he knocked him out during an arrest in 1989 He recalled one memorable showdown with Hines at a bar in 1989, when he showed up to arrest the gangster, but quickly realised he was vastly outnumbered. Hines had a warrant out for his arrest and had been hanging out at the Maroubra Hotel with at least 15 to 16 other gang members, when Mason showed up with a partner. He decided to go in with a friendly approach, hoping Hines would surrender himself if he asked nicely. 'I went in and said, "Tony, I've got a warrant for you, and I'm also going to arrest you for the assault of the police officer".' But Hines, calm, cool and collected, replied that he was drinking his beer. His reaction set the scene, drawing in spectators who quickly prepared to watch a clash. Mason, still playing good cop, then asked Hines once more to give himself up, and that's when things escalated. He watched as Hines emptied his beer glass, preparing to smash it on him, but Mason acted quickly, knocking him out with one punch. Hines was removed from the bar and taken to the police station. Bra Boys: Koby Abberton (left) with his brothers Sunny (centre) and Jai (left) leave the NSW Supreme Court in Sydney in 2006. The siblings, who are the most prominent members of the gang, have made headlines over the years for their alleged involvement in crimes Original Bra Boy Koby Abberton signs a surfboard with heiress Paris Hilton at Bondi in 2007 When asked why he put up a defiant front, Hines reportedly told the officer that he felt compelled to put on a show in front of all his mates. WHO ARE THE BRA BOYS? The Bra Boys are a gang based on surfing culture founded in Sydney in the 1990s Their name comes from the beachside suburb Maroubra, in the city's south-east The most prominent members are brothers Sunny, Koby and Jai Abberton The gang has inspired television characters and even films including 2017 movie Bra Boys: Blood Is Thicker Than Water - which was narrated by Russell Crowe Advertisement During another police encounter, Hines had been wanted for allegedly assaulting his girlfriend, but had barricaded himself in his apartment by blocking his door with lounges when police showed up. Police devised a plan to nab him after they were informed he was armed with a knife and possibly a gun. When Mason made his way in alone, he found Hines lying face down in his bed with his hands under his pillow. Mason tackled him on the bed, getting a hold of Hines's hand which had been grasping a large 'machete-sized' knife, and ultimately disarmed him. Years later, in 2003, Hines's involvement in the gang eventually caught up to him and he was killed when he was shot in the head three times. His naked body was found at the base of cliffs at Maroubra. Fellow Bra Boy Jai Abberton was charged with his murder but was found not guilty on the grounds of self-defence, successfully claiming Hines was going to rape a woman and kill him. Koby Abberton, 39, with his fiancee Olya Nechiporenko and their son Despite his reputation as a menacing gangster, Mason acknowledged Hines could have potentially led a successful life had he made better life choices. 'When you spoke to him he was intelligent, even a nice guy, but it was a matter of time before somebody got him because he created that many enemies,' Mason said. The Bra Boys' reputation on the streets led them to be subjects of a movie, form a clothing label and inspire the fictional River Boys in the TV drama series Home And Away. The gang's most prominent members, brothers Sunny, Koby and Jai Abberton, have made headlines over the years for their alleged involvement in crimes. They were born to a heroin-addicted mother and cared for by their grandmother Mavis, known as Ma. Sunny, Jai and Koby all grew up to surf professionally. The Abbertons even became the subject of a 2007 documentary called Bra Boys: Blood Is Thicker Than Water, narrated by Oscar-winning actor Russell Crowe. A man has been charged with possession of explosives after two suspected bombs were found in an empty flat in north-west London. Richard Parry, 49, was arrested in November last year after the two suspected IEDs (improvised explosive devices) were found in the kitchen cupboard at his former flat in Craven Park, Harlesden, on November 21 last year. He was charged with two counts of possession of an explosive substance for unlawful purposes contrary to the Explosive Substances Act on Wednesday. Parry was also charged with one count of possession of a class A drug and one count of possession of a class B drug. Richard Parry, 49, man has been charged with possession of explosives after two suspected bombs were found in an empty flat in north-west London back in November 2018 (police at the scene in 2018) He has been granted bail ahead of his appearance at Westminster Magistrates' Court on May 22. Back in November, Metropolitan Police received a call to an unoccupied property that was being refurbished. Handyman John Brooks discovered the suspicious devices in the kitchen cupboard while giving the flat a coat of paint after the former tenant Parry, an ex-soldier. A friend of Mr Brooks told The Sun: 'He was just tidying up, cleaning and giving the place a lick of paint for the next tenant. Handyman John Brooks discovered the suspicious devices in the kitchen cupboard while giving the flat a coat of paint after the former tenant Parry, an ex-soldier (police at the scene in 2018) An initial police assessment at the time showed the devices were IEDs. Residents were evacuated and kept outside for nine hours while specialist officers worked to deactivate the bombs 'At first he thought they were bangers, so thought nothing much of it. 'Once he realised who had built them, he felt very uneasy and realised that if they had gone off he'd have been killed.' An initial police assessment at the time showed the devices were IEDs. Residents were evacuated and kept outside for nine hours while specialist officers worked to deactivate the bombs. The journalist Toby Young has been looking at yesterdays rather lurid story about biodiversity, and the claim that a million species are going to be lost if we dont become communists. Or something like that. Young appears to have done some brief research and has shown that the underlying estimates, sponsored by the UN, are bunk. The authors of the report have taken some data from official Red List of threatened species and extrapolated it in precisely the way that the Red List authors say should not be done. They have then published a somewhat hysterical press release, but not the underlying report. This is a familiar story for anyone who is interested in environmentalism, but Young has been rather taken aback, both at the shoddiness of the research and the way the press have dealt with it. After all, if some brief research has revealed to Young (with a degree in PPE) that some scientific research is nonsense, surely the massed ranks of science journalists would have been expected to find the problems too? But of course, as eco-nerds know, science journalists see themselves as part of the green movement and asking questions is therefore frowned upon. The science-page news articles are declarations of faith, not inquiries, or debates. So with the extinctions story, just as with everything else, science journalists have reprinted the press release or, more daringly, rewritten it in their own words. Nobody, but nobody, asks any questions. To some extent, the problem can be blamed on a lack of scientific literacy among the press corps. Most people on the science-environment beat are humanities graduates, and would struggle to question the press releases that cross their desks, although Young of course has shown that an inquiring mind can take you a long way. But inquiring minds are not common among science journalists, most of whom are comfortable in their faith. Sensible people should discount all science headlines, particularly the lurid ones about new research (todays one is about future increases in floods in the UK). Your best bet is to find some contrarians on social media and see what they have to say. The wild headlines are usually shot down on the same day by some awkward customer, but not before the mainstream media have done their damage. With that in mind, let us return briefly to todays impending crisis and note that climate models are really, really bad at simulating current rainfall patterns (the IPCC says their ability in this area is modest), and thus are no more useful for predicting future floods than tea-leaf gazing. No journalist will mention this awkward fact, but at least Toby Young will not be surprised this time. Motorists across the country are being urged to fill up immediately with fuel prices expected to surge after Shell Coles Express raised its unleaded prices by a whopping 30 cents overnight. New South Wales and Queensland motorists woke to the massive surge, leaving fuel at 167.9 cents a litre - 30 cents more than then the price of unleaded fuel on Wednesday. Motorists in Sydney and Melbourne have been urged to fill up now with Shell Coles Express attempting to set the price benchmark for the upcoming fuel cycle. Motorists are being urged to fill up immediately as fuel prices are expected to surge after Shell Coles Express raised its unleaded prices by 30 cents overnight General manager of price monitoring service fuelTRAC, Geoff Trotter, savaged Shell Coles Express's move, The Courier Mail reported. 'This is probably the most blatant example of Shell Coles Express trying to lead the Brisbane market up to 167.9 cents a litre,' he told the publication. 'Its a new era all right. Weve never seen prices go so high so quickly and with record margins.' The national average for fuel prices in the week ending May 5 was 145.6 cents a litre while the highest national average over the past six months was 150.0 cents a litre. RACQ spokeswoman Lucinda Ross said it wasn't uncommon for a company to make a play at setting a new price benchmark. 'Thats higher than we expected. Its too early to tell if thats where the new high will sit, but we would urge motorists not to delay filling up because prices are on the way up, and when they hike they can leap by 20 or 30 cents a litre,' she said. Sydney is also expected to be hit with the price surge in the coming days, NRMA spokesman Peter Khoury said. 'We've seen a number of sites reaching 167.9 cents a litre overnight so we are seeing a similar trend here (as in Queensland),' he explained. 'It happens at the end of the fuel cycle when companies try to jump up the prices.' Mr Khoury advises Sydney motorists to fill up now before the prices continue to rise. He also advised Melbourne motorists to fill up because fuel prices in the city are trending upwards. Sydney is also expected to be hit with a fuel price surge in the coming days, NRMA Head of Media Peter Khoury told Daily Mail Australia 'It's at 156.9 cents a litre in Melbourne but it will get worse, it was 142.0 cents a litre last Friday in Melbourne so it is trending upwards for sure,' Mr Khoury said. Mr Khoury said it was a common practice in the fuel industry for prices to rise at the end of a fuel cycle. Fuel cycles are different depending on which part of the country you are in but Thursday is the 23rd day of the current fuel cycle in Sydney. The previous fuel cycle lasted 28 days. According to the NRMA website the average regular unleaded price in Sydney for the current cycle should range between 138 cents per litre and 156 cents per litre. A man has been charged after allegedly assaulting a schoolgirl in a McDonald's car park. The 47-year-old was allegedly involved in an altercation with the student, 14, at a McDonald's in Werribee, in Melbourne's south-west, about 4.40pm on Tuesday. The man allegedly yelled 'shut your big f***ing mouth' at the girl before allegedly punching her several times in the face and headbutting her. A 47-year-old man allegedly assaulted a 14-year-old school girl at a McDonald's car park The girl said she was terrified because she thought she could have been killed by the man. 'If I fell back and hit my head on the concrete, I could have died,' she told 7News. The alleged assault occurred after the girl got into a fight with the man's stepdaughter. A woman is seen trying to break up the fight and one male student is seen trying to intervene. The man allegedly yelled 'shut your big f***ing mouth' at the girl while grabbing her arms and pushing her Victorian Education minister James Merlino said the assault was very serious and students should feel safe at school. '[There is] never an excuse for violence, whether in our school, or in our communities,' Mr Merlino told the Herald Sun. 'The health and safety of our students is our absolute priority.' The man was charged with assault-related offences and will appear in the Sunshine Magistrates Court on Thursday after being remanded in custody. President Donald Trump defended Attorney General Bill Barr Wednesday night and blasted the Russia 'hoax', hours after the House Judiciary Committee voted to hold Barr in contempt of Congress. 'After two years, nothing, no collusion. And now the Democrats we have a great attorney general, now the Democrats are saying 'We want more.'' Trump told an outdoor rally in Panama City. 'Now they say the Mueller report, we want to start all over again. It is a disgrace,' Trump told the crowd. Speaking after House Judiciary Chairman Jerold Nadler declared a 'constitutional crisis' in the clash over documents and testimony, Trump fused his own defense following the two-year Mueller probe to a call for unity. 'It's time to come together for the people of Panama City, for the people of Florida, for the people of our country it's time to stop this nonsense,' Trump implored. President Donald Trump joked about serving a third term at a Florida rally Wednesday night Trump appeared hours after asserting executive privilege to withhold the un-redacted Mueller report from Congress, and after the House Judiciary Committee voted to hold Attorney General Bill Barr in contempt of Congress. His move likely sends the issue to the courts, amid new calls for investigations, White House refusals to send officials to testify in Congress, skirmishes over Trump's tax returns, and continued Democratic calls for impeachment. Later in his remarks, he went after the 'fake news' media then pivoted to quips about the length of his term in office. 'They are a bunch fakers, fakers,' Trump said. 'You know in six years, they're all going to be out of business, folks,' he said. 'If we want to drive them crazy, I'll say in 10 years they'll go crazy,' Trump said, joking about serving 12 years in office. 'See he is a despot,' Trump said, mocking how he said his comment would be portrayed in the media. Trump called Bill Barr 'a great attorney general' following a House committee vote to hold him in contempt Supporters react during a campaign rally with U.S. President Donald Trump in Panama City, Florida, U.S., May 8, 2019 Earlier this week, Trump retweeted Jerry Falwell, who said Trump 'should have 2 years added' to his 1st term,' due to the Russia probe. Then Trump tweeted that 'they have stolen two years of my (our) Presidency' sparking commentary he may seek a way around the 22nd Amendment's limit of two terms. Later in his rally, Trump pondered an even longer term, after member of the audience screamed something. 'Guy just screamed out 14 more years,' Trump said. Taking on Democrats in Congress, Trump said: 'They want to do investigations instead of investments [in the country]. I think it drives us right on to victory in 2020, because people get it,' he said. Trump took several shots at poll leaders in the Democratic field. In a line at South Bend mayor Pete Buttigieg, Trump said: 'We have that young man, Buttigieg. They say edge edge,' Trump said, noting the difficult pronunciation of his name. 'He's got a great chance doesn't he? He'll be great, representing us against President Xi of China. I want to be in that room, I want to watch that one.' He called former Vice President Joe Biden a 'sleepy person,' and said world leaders want Biden to win. President Donald Trump speaks at a rally at Aaron Bessant Amphitheater, Wednesday, May 8, 2019, in Panama City Beach, Fla. 'Of course they do, so they can continue to rip off the United States,' Trump said. 'I want to run so badly I want this race to start immediately!' Trump said. Trump also mentioned Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders as among the 'real beauties.' 'I'll take any of them. Let's just pick somebody please and just start this thing, Trump said, itching to get a general election opponent. Late Tuesday, the New York Times reported Trump had lost more than a billion dollars over a decade in the 1980s, based on confidential IRS data. Trump stood behind his China tariffs, with a Friday negotiating deadline approaching. 'We don't have to do business with them. We can make the products right here, like we used to,' Trump said. 'We won't back down until China stops cheating our workers and stealing our jobs,' Trump said. He took on another continual rival: Hillary Clinton. 'Hillary Clinton's still going up: 'I think they stole the election,'' Trump said. 'No, she lost.' He offered rare praise for her husband, saying Bill Clinton urged her to campaign in Wisconsin in Michigan. 'Her husband Bill, who's a good politician, they didn't listen to him,' Trump said. President Donald Trump gestures as he steps off Air Force One at Tyndall Air Force Base, Florida on May 8, 2019 Amid a funding standoff over a disaster relief bill, Trump repeatedly asserted that Puerto Rico had received $91 billion in aid, although it has only gotten $40 billion in funds. ' 'Puerto Rico got $91 billion, and I understand they don't like me,' Trump said. 'We've never given $91 billion to a state. We gave to Puerto Rico $91 billion,' he repeated. He appears to be counting tens of billions in FEMA estimates for costs in the future, not actually appropriated funds. 'What the Democrats want to do, they want to give more and more,' Trump said. 'I say, you know what, I have a great relationship with the people of Puerto Rico, but it hasn't been fair the way they've treated us from the standpoint of their leaders.' Trump repeatedly pledged to invest in hard-hit Florida, a critical swing state that he carried in 2016. 'But you're getting your money one way or another, and we're not going to let anybody hold it up,' Trump said, following a visit to storm-ravaged Tyndall Air Force Base. Trump credited himself with saving the base, and said in the future there would be 'many more people working at Tyndall than you had the day bf the hurricane, okay?' Trump referenced his initial campaign announcement speech, where he took heat for speaking of Mexican 'rapists.' 'I mention the word rape. I was absolutely by the fake news media they went after me,' Trump said. 'Guess what? That speech was so mild compared to what's actually happening.' Trump also returned to a story he repeats about women being smuggled across the border 'tied up, with tape over their mouths.' It was President Trump's 39th rally in Florida and his second in Panama City since June 2015, according to the campaign. State lawmakers locked arms around Trump, issuing unqualified endorsements on a day he asserted executive privilege rather than turn over the un-redacted Mueller report. The House Judiciary Committee voted to hold Attorney General Bob Barr in contempt amid the standoff. Former primary rival, Florida Sen. Marco Rubio, gushed about Trump before the rally. 'The president is a man of action,' said Rubio. 'He loves this state. He spends a lot of time in this state, and he will help this state,' he said. 'He loves this state. He spends a lot of time in this state, and he will help this state.' Local Florida Rep. Neal Dunn gushed: 'It's great to be back home in Trump country,' and said of Trump: 'He is a hero to us.' President Donald Trump speaks as he tours areas of Tyndall Air Force Base that were damaged by Hurricane Michael, Wednesday, May 8, 2019, in Tyndall Air Force Base, Fla. Late Tuesday, the New York Times reported Trump had lost more than a billion dollars over a decade in the 1980s, based on confidential IRS data. In the span of nearly a decade, from 1985 to 1994, Donald Trump lost more money than nearly any other individual American taxpayer, the Times report claims. He is pictured here in 1989 Supporters wait for the arrival of U.S. President Donald Trump during a campaign rally in Panama City, Florida, U.S., May 8, 2019 Several thousand turned out to hear Trump in Panama City Said Trump backer Rep. Matt Gaetz before the rally: 'I'll be damned if the lies cooked up in the Obama White House retold by the Deep State, prosecuted by the lyin' media and advanced by the corrupt Democrats in Congress will ever undermine the election that we won for Donald Trump,' he said to applause. 'If they try to undermine our president with lawless investigations, meaningless subpoenas, absurd contempt citations, we're going to turn the tables on them, we are going to investigate the investigators we will lock them up!' he said. Trump began his trip with a visit to Tyndall Air Force Base, which suffered severe damage during Hurricane Michael. He was joined by Florida's Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis and other officials at the base, which was walloped by Michael, a Category 5 storm. According to the White House, almost all 700 structures were damaged and a third were destroyed. Although the White House blamed 'Democrat obstruction,' a funding standoff centers around Trump's opposition to more aid for storm-damaged Puerto Rico. Democrats are demanding more funds for the island, a U.S. territory. Climate change will wipe $571billion off the Australian property market by 2030 if we don't reduce emissions, according to new research. Floods, erosion, drought, bushfires and other extreme weather will cause untold damage to homes, infrastructure and commercial property, according to the Climate Council. The destruction will cause the value of affected homes to plunge by a total of $571billion by 2030, $611billion by 2050 and $770billion by 2100, the group's new report states. Damaged beachfront homes along Pittwater Road following a king tide and large waves at Collaroy on Sydney's northern beaches June 2016 Storm-damaged unit blocks are seen at Mooloolaba on Queensland's Sunshine Coast in June 2016 Pastoralist Lachlan Gall pulls a dead goat out of a dam on his property at Langawirra Station north of Broken Hill, New South Wales in August 2018 during a severe drought Lightning strikes homes in Melbourne suburbs during a freak storm in December 2017 The research identifies ten local regions in each state where property will be most affected by climate change. In New South Wales the Moree Plains will suffer from flooding and soil damage while in Victoria Swan Hill is most at risk of damage from flooding, the report states. Queensland has the highest proportion of regions that will be affected with 52 per cent of local government areas at serious risk, the Gold Coast chief among them. As the damage costs increase, more homeowners will have to shell out higher insurance premiums, according to the report titled How Climate Change Is Damaging Australia's Economy. The group identifies ten local regions in each state that will be the most affected by climate change Houses affected by beach erosion are seen at Mermaid Beach on the Gold Coast on May 29, 2013 How did the Climate Council reach the $571billion figure? The Climate Council analysed all 15million addresses in Australia. They calculated which ones would be affected by climate changes including soil changes, flooding, inundation, and bush-fires by using existing data from university studies. They then worked out an estimate for how much damage would be caused and calculated an annual average loss for each property. Researchers calculated the decreased property values by working out how much less buyers could afford for a mortgage given that they would have to spend more on insurance premiums. The total estimated damage-related loss of property value is expected to rise to $571billion by 2030, $611billion by 2050 and $770 billion by 2100. Advertisement One in every 19 property owners faces the prospect of insurance premiums that will be effectively unaffordable by 2030, the report states. The report also says that the economy will be affected by climate changes in other ways than property damage. Agricultural yields will be lower, pushing food prices up, researchers state. Losses will reduce investment and employment, meaning agricultural heartlands such as the Murray-Darling Basin and the Western Australian wheat belt suffer enormously, they say. Meanwhile, increasing temperatures will lead to more lost work days due to heat, the report says. These two effects could cost the economy a total of $4.2trillion by 2100, according to the research. The report states that all of these direct macroeconomic shocks 'could trigger serious financial instability in Australia and the region.' It concludes that the next government must do more to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. 'Australias greenhouse gas emissions have been rising for four years and we are not on track to meet our weak 2030 emissions reduction target,' the report reads. 'If the world followed Australias approach we would be on track for at least 3-4C of global warming, which would have catastrophic economic consequences.' Climate change is a key issue in the federal election. Labor leader Bill Shorten has repeatedly attacked Prime Minister Scott Morrison and the Liberal Party for not doing enough to combat it. Mr Morrison has in return criticised Mr Shorten for not spelling out exactly how much his policies on climate change will cost the taxpayer. The Labor leader has responded by saying the future costs of climate change are much higher than any investment in renewable energy made now - and this report appears to back up his argument. Queensland has the highest proportion of local government areas that will be affected with 52 per cent of regions at serious risk Jonathan Weslake's flood-ravaged home is left in ruins after a levee broke, inundating the centre of Lismore, New South Wales in April 2017 A lifelong Tory supporter who appeared on Channel 4s The Secret Millionaire will stand as the Brexit Partys candidate in the Peterborough by-election next month. Mike Greene, a local benefactor and trustee of Peterborough cathedral, will fight the June 6 by-election. A victory would give Nigel Farages new party its first seat in the Commons. Mr Greene and Mr Farage only met on Tuesday night at a rally in Peterborough. Mike Greene, a lifelong Tory supporter, will stand as the Brexit Partys candidate in the Peterborough by-election next month. He is pictured in a My Local store. He purchased the convenience store business from Morrisons for 25 million in 2015 In an interview with The Telegraph yesterday, he said: The Brexit party is the only party that has absolute clarity of focus on delivering the democratic vote. I have a 16 year old (Amelia) and 20 year old daughter (Rosie). If I believed for one second with one cell in my body Brexit would do any harm to their future I would not be [standing]. But I believe in quite the opposite. Brexit is what we need to do to give us the controls that we need of our laws, our borders and lots of things about our trade. The seat in Peterborough became available after Labour MP Fiona Onasanya was ousted in a petition. Last year she was jailed for perverting the course of justice after lying to avoid a speeding ticket. The seat has traditionally been a battle between Labour and Conservative - in 2017 Onasanya won with a margin of just 607 over long-serving Tory MP Stewart Jackson. She was a complete joke - had never lived here to my knowledge. I attend lots of business and charity functions and in two years I never saw her. What a let-down, he added. She went to prison for lying, came straight out and voted against the 61 per cent who voted for Brexit. It is absolutely right that she has gone and my passion for standing is to help deliver the democratic vote. Mr Greene was an early investor in music app Shazam, which was acquired by Apple last September for around 308,000,000 ($400,000,000). He supported the Conservatives all his life - but after Theresa May failed to take Britain out of the European Union on 29th March his view changed. He described Mrs May as dishonest and said voters are are angry, disappointed and hurt by the fact that our parties have let us down. Mr Greene and Mr Farage only met on Tuesday night at a rally in Peterborough. Mr Greene is pictured (right) on Channel 4's The Secret Millionaire I have strong political views but I have never had any intention or interest of running to be a politician, he added. Mr Greene appears as a single-issue candidate with his main priority being enabling Brexit to go ahead, then discussing policy later. I will be able to vote in the way that I believe is best for Peterborough. You wouldnt replace the windscreen wiper on a car when the engine has blown up. My first priority is about to get Brexit, he said to The Telegraph. A rags to riches businessman, Mr Greene was bought up on a council estate in Luton where he had to share a bed with his two brothers. He worked as a paperboy and moved to Peterborough aged 11, where after leaving his state school he went onto work as a retail consultant before setting up his own company - which he sold in 2012. As for Mr Farage, though the two only have known one another for two days he has faith in the message of the Brexit Party. He said: He has always impressed me.... Politicians hardly ever answer a question - they just fudge. Nigel answers questions, he says what he thinks and he believes what he says, and that is all we want out of our politicians. For a long time, it has been obvious that Theresa May doesnt observe the conventions that govern the behaviour of run-of-the-mill politicians. She can destroy a parliamentary majority, having run a disastrous election campaign. She can suffer three of the biggest defeats in parliamentary history on her flagship Brexit legislation. She can lose numerous Cabinet ministers to resignations or sackings. And yet our bounce-back Prime Minister survives every buffeting and setback. The world says she must go this time, but she doesnt. Something propels her onwards. Principle? A belief in her historic destiny? A contempt for the rules of lesser mortals? Theresa May plans to remain in Number 10 until the Conservative conference this September after setting a new summer deadline to finish Brexit talks Stricken Last week, the Tories had their worst showing in local elections for almost a quarter of a century. In the EU elections on May 23, with which this stricken Government has idiotically saddled us, they are expected to come third or even fourth. Will Mrs May cling on? In her determination to persist, she is unlike Margaret Thatcher. The real Iron Lady caved in to pressure from the men in grey suits to resign, even though she had just won the first round of a Tory leadership contest by what some reckoned was a comfortable margin. What will it take for this most obdurate of women to clear her desk? I ask because of reports that Mrs May has decided she wont stand down until the Conservative Party Conference at the end of September. Before that, she intends to try to break the Brexit impasse with one more throw of the dice. Sir Graham Brady, chairman of the 1922 Committee of backbench Tory MPs, said yesterday he expected the EU Withdrawal Agreement, already rejected three times by the Commons, to be brought back within the next two weeks. Unless there are substantial changes, Id be surprised if Mrs May received support from Labour, with which the Government has been engaged in fruitless talks about Brexit, or from recalcitrant Tory Brexiteers and the Democratic Unionist Party. Short of a miracle, this has the look of a desperate ploy. I dont say this with any relish: barring an astonishing breakthrough, the Prime Ministers clinging to power for another six months is likely to be bad for the country, her party and herself. Without question she has shown huge courage and remarkable resilience. The Withdrawal Agreement, though far from perfect, does at least involve our leaving the EU, which is supposed to be the point of the exercise. The failure to approve it hasnt so much been Mrs Mays fault though she was surely naive to think the Commons would accept the Northern Irish backstop and our potentially being locked in the Customs Union ad infinitum but that of fractious MPs who wont compromise. So I salute her for battling valiantly. But she seems to have exhausted nearly all her options and, except in the improbable event of Jeremy Corbyn coming to her rescue, will soon be staring at an empty cupboard. Why not let someone else have a shot? Mrs Mays supporters rightly argue that the parliamentary arithmetic wouldnt change with another leader, and there would be little prospect of Brussels being more flexible over the Northern Irish backstop. Nonetheless, a new Prime Minister would bring new ideas and energy (how exhausted Mrs May looks!) and possibly inject a dose of optimism into a country that, Leavers and Remainers alike, is in despair. This isnt the moment to judge a beauty parade of would-be leaders, even though some of the male contestants have been showing off their wives, and otherwise busily laying out their wares, while Mrs May goes through the motions of being Prime Minister. Sir Graham Brady, the chairman of the influential 199 Committee, urged Mrs May to announce a detailed timetable for a departure before the Commons summer recess in July But I can imagine two or three of them, if elected, bringing a draught of fresh air. They might have qualities of persuasion which the somewhat rigid and unclubbable current occupant of No. 10 lacks. If Mrs May does cling on until early October, her successor couldnt be in place by October 31, the current deadline for our leaving the EU. She would probably have to stay on to negotiate a new deadline, assuming it can be done. Of course, she hopes that by that time she will have brokered a deal which would have taken Britain out of the EU. But in view of what has happened so far, that doesnt seem very likely. Far better for her to name a date for her departure immediately after the inevitable rout on May 23. She would still be Prime Minister when President Trump pays his state visit to Britain in early June, but the wheels of a Tory leadership contest would already be whirring. Battle In fact, July would be the ideal time for such a showdown since throughout much of that month and the whole of August the panjandrums of the EU Commission are to be found sunning themselves in their villas and schlosses. Only in October will the well-fed and fully rested members of a new Commission re-assemble in Brussels, by which time a new Prime Minister could be safely installed in No. 10, and ready to do battle. There is another consideration which Mrs May should not ignore. Given that a new leader will have to wrestle with the same parliamentary numbers, he or she may have to call a general election in the hope of winning a workable majority. Lets be realistic. Mrs May cant do that because she is such an unpopular leader. Labours poor showing in last weeks local elections showed how vulnerable Jeremy Corbyn is. But Theresa May wouldnt be able to beat him. It will take a new Tory leader to have any chance of doing that. My view has long been that Corbyn presents a far greater danger to the prosperity and well-being of our country than the most extreme form of no-deal Brexit. Its impossible to feel at all relaxed so long as a wounded and, I fear, ineffectual, Prime Minister remains in No. 10. As for Mrs May herself, she will face only ignominy if she insists on clinging on in defiance of the increasing opposition of Tory MPs and the party faithful. Humiliating Yesterdays meeting of the 1922 Committee edged closer to demanding a detailed road map of when the Prime Minister will leave office. She will come under pressure to produce one when she appears in front of the Committees executive panel next week. Meanwhile, Tory grassroots members are to hold a vote of confidence in her leadership on June 15, which seems likely to go against her. Although such an outcome would be non-binding, it would represent a humiliating defeat for the Tory leader. I understand why Mrs May is still tempted to stay on. It is not really about hanging on to power at all costs. She wants to fulfil what she regards as her duty taking this country out of the EU and doesnt want to stand down until she does that. The trouble is that she cant. The moment has almost certainly passed. Someone else should be allowed to have a go. For her countrys sake, for her partys best interests, and for her own good, she should tell us immediately after May 23 that she is leaving soon. The second gunman who allegedly opened fire on classmates at a Denver High School appeared in court on Wednesday. Alec McKinney has been accused of killing one classmate and injuring eight others alongside his friend Devon Erickson at STEM School Highlands Ranch on Tuesday. Authorities described McKinney as a female juvenile named Maya after initially identifying the second gunman as a boy based on appearances. But friends of McKinney have confirmed that the teen identified as a male and preferred to be called 'Alec'. The second gunman who allegedly opened fire on classmates at a Denver High School has been identified as Alec McKinney McKinney has been accused of killing one classmate and injuring eight others alongside his friend Devon Erickson at STEM School Highlands Ranch on Tuesday. They are pictured here together at prom just a month ago McKinney is reportedly in the process of transitioning from female to male, but Sheriff Tony Spurlock would not confirm if the young suspect was transgender. 'Right now we are identifying the individual as a female, because that's where we're at,' he said. 'We originally thought the juvenile was a male by appearance.' When McKinney appeared in court on Wednesday, his attorney said he preferred the pronoun 'he', according to CBS Denver. McKinney waived the reading of formal charges. He is being held without bond. Erickson also didn't enter a plea and was ordered to return to court on Friday. Friends of McKinney revealed more details of the teen on social media, fighting back against authorities' decision to identify him as a woman and revealing that he was struggling with mental health issues. 'Nothing that Alec and Devon did can be condoned, and they can't be defended. Their actions were terrible. But Alec is not a girl,' one friend wrote on her Instagram story. Erickson, 18, covered his face with his streaked purple hair when he made his brief court appearance on Wednesday dressed in a red prison jumpsuit and handcuffs Erickson was earlier charged as an adult with first-degree murder and attempted murder over the shooting on Tuesday afternoon 'He at least deserves that respect. And I am so deeply sorry to anyone affected by their actions. Things like this can be prevented and they aren't. This is not okay.' That same friend later took to McKinney's Instagram page and revealed both he and Erickson had been troubled. 'Devon did not do what he did because he's a liberal, or to make a statement,' she wrote. 'He did it due to internal struggles. They're both struggling with mental health issues and this is a time for awareness.' 'Alec did not do this because he's trans, but had people supported him in the way that he needed and deserved, he would not have struggled so much that he got pushed over the edge.' Friends of McKinney revealed more details of the teen on social media, revealing that he was struggling with mental health issues. He is pictured here at prom last month One friend took to her Instagram story to confirm that McKinney identified as a man as she spoke out about the shooting 'They did a horrible thing, but please, please recognize that mental health awareness is important. Supporting LGBT youth is important. They didn't get the help they needed, and they NEEDED it.' The friend said she knew both McKinney and Erickson personally and said they didn't shoot their classmates 'out of hatred toward others'. 'It was hate in themselves,' she continued. 'And they needed support and they didn't get it and that could have a lot to do with how this ended up. The way that they felt is not an excuse for what they did. But I firmly believe that if they had gotten the help that they desperately needed, their state would not have progressed this far.' Another friend who took to McKinney's Instagram comments said the teen was 'really sweet and selfless'. 'It's hard for me to accept that he did this so ofc it's hard for me to see these comments (sic).' McKinney and Erickson are seen here at prom together just a month before the shooting That same friend who posted about McKinney on her story later took to McKinney's Instagram page and revealed both he and Erickson had been troubled The friend said she knew both McKinney and Erickson personally and said they didn't shoot their classmates 'out of hatred toward others' The friend said she believed the shooting would never have happened if both teens 'had gotten the help that they desperately needed' 'You need to understand that there are people that knew him for him before he shot a school. What he did was selfish, but I know that for the longest time he wasn't.' A third friend called McKinney a 'loving and selfless individual' who 'wanted nothing but the best for others'. Kendrick Castillo, 18, died on Tuesday afternoon while trying to take down one of the shooters 'Unfortunately from the lack of help he was given or that he accepted, he reached his breaking point,' they added. 'The Alec I knew was a genuinely loving person who couldn't have loved his friends any more than he did. No one would have guessed in a million years he was capable of doing this, but he did.' 'Anyone can do the unthinkable when pushed too far. I am by no means trying to condone his actions, I'm trying to get the point across that this could happen to anyone and that we all need to make sure we help or friends/family personally.' Erickson was charged as an adult on Wednesday with first-degree murder in the death of 18-year-old Kendrick Castillo, who was just three days away from graduating high school. He also faces dozens of attempted murder counts and was ordered held without bond at Douglas County Jail. Classmates said Castillo was among a group of three students who tried to take down one of the shooters by tackling them when they stormed the classroom. Witnesses said two gunmen stormed two classrooms and opened fire with handguns that were concealed in a guitar case. Eight students suffered gunshot wounds in the shooting and three of them remain in intensive care in hospital. Five had been discharged from the hospital by Wednesday morning. Authorities have not yet released a motive for the shooting, which occurred just miles from the scene of the deadly 1999 Columbine High School massacre. The shooters went into the school through an entrance without metal detectors, according to police. Devon Erickson, 18, has been identified as one of the two suspects who allegedly opened fire on STEM School Highlands Ranch in Colorado on Tuesday afternoon They were arrested within minutes after administrators reported the gunfire. Sheriff Spurlock said officers engaged the suspects and there was a struggle to bring them down but neither suspect was injured in the confrontation. Joshua Jones (pictured in an undated photo) was shot twice while disarming one of the attackers on Tuesday Authorities recovered three handguns and a rifle but said the latter was not used in the shooting. The two students were not old enough to buy or own the handguns. Student Nui Giasolli was in her British Literature class when Erickson came in late. 'He walked to the other side of the classroom where we also had another door and he opened the door,' she told the Today Show. 'He walked back as if he was going to go back to his seat, then he walked back to the door and he closed it. The next thing I know he's pulling a gun and he's telling nobody to move.' Giasolli said another student lunged at the shooter, giving his peers time to dive under the desks and flee to safety. 'To be some of the kids that were brave enough to bring him down so that all of us could escape and all of us could be reunited with our families,' she said. 'They were very heroic. I can't thank them enough.' Josh Dutton, 18, told The Associated Press that he was close friends with Devon Erickson in middle school but hadn't seen him for four years as he went to a different high school. Terrified students were evacuated from the school after shots were fired at 1.53pm on Tuesday Students and teachers hold their hands in the air as they exit the scene of the shooting On Sunday, he spotted Erickson at a local light rail station and said he was shocked at how much his friend had changed. Erickson wore all black, a hat and sunglasses, was significantly skinnier and didn't seem interested in talking. 'He said he'd just turned 18 and he owned rifles,' Dutton said. Hundreds of people took to Twitter after news of the shooting broke to express their horror that yet another American school had been targeted. The shooting is the 43rd incident of gunfire reported on a school campus so far in 2019 and the 116th mass shooting overall this year. The STEM campus is located just seven miles from Columbine High School, where 13 people were killed and more than 20 were injured on April 20, 1999 - just over 20 years ago. A number of students alleged on the STEM School Highlands Ranch's Google reviews that the school had issues with bullying, including one user who shared the same first name as Erickson (pictured) The shooting is the 43rd incident of gunfire reported on a school campus so far in 2019 and the 116th mass shooting overall this year A number of students alleged on the STEM School Highlands Ranch's Google reviews that the school had issues with bullying, including one user who shared the same first name as Erickson. The user, who called himself 'NotSoFantasticDevon', said he was 'literally assaulted' on campus and that faculty did nothing about it. 'The dean of students made us delete the video of the kid attacking me, and they then proceeded to suspend me for half a day,' read the review, which was posted six months ago. 'Then they told me I was bullying the kid even though I had a list of over 10 people who saw it happen and knew I wasn't bullying the kid. Just do yourself a favor and don't let your kid go here.' One student claimed the school does not provide 'any support to students with confirmed mental illnesses'. 'Additionally, bullying is a huge problem at the school. It often seems that the problem isn't even being addressed by the people who run the school, other than to milk it for money by selling "anti-bullying" fundraiser stuff, while ignoring the problem in their own halls,' they added. Another student claimed that '99.9 percent' of all students at the school are 'depressed/bullied/insecure' but the 'office does nothing'. The real estate agent said the house sold for much more than he expected A first home buyer saw the ad on the news and organised to buy the house An ad campaign that was mocked online has helped sell a house for $1.72m An extravagant video ad for a property that was widely mocked as 'cringeworthy' online has delivered - with the home selling for almost $1million more than than the area's median price. A 23-year-old purchased the lavish four-bedroom home in Padstow - right in the heart of Sydney's south-west - for $1.72m. The median house price in the area is $850,000. Real estate agent Sam Nader told Daily Mail Australia the man is a first home buyer who 'loved the ad'. The man is said to have purchased the property after he saw the video on the news. A 23-year-old purchased the lavish four-bedroom home on Chamberlain Road in Western Sydney for $1.7milllion, in an area where the medium house price in $850,000 The controversial advertising campaign by LJ Hooker Bankstown director Sam Nader featured a couple shimmying around the property - with an actress even laying down on the kitchen bench. 'The property sold for much more than I expected,' said Mr Nader, who was originally seeking a price of around $1.6m to $1.7m. An auction was originally planned for Saturday but with the offer from the young man already much higher than what the owners thought they would get, the agents decided to sell. 'I think the video is what sold it,' Mr Nader said. The Sydney agent plans to release another video in a similar style in a few weeks time. LJ Hooker Bankstown director Sam Nader said 'the property sold for much more than I expected' and credited the ad for the sale The agent said the ad campaign attracted huge amounts of attention from the public, who he said 'loved' the video. The real estate video began with a man arriving at the sprawling, modern home in a white Jaguar F-Type coupe, parking the vehicle across the driveway before entering the property. The man stroked the bonnet of his car and then walked to the front door, where he was greeted by a woman. Mr Nader said the ad was such a success he plans to release another video of a similar style in a few weeks time The couple entered the home and embraced each other in a dance before he laid her across the kitchen bench in a scene that was a bit much for some people. Mr Nader himself said they deleted the original video - which attracted more than 250,000 views - as it was 'a bit ... raunchy'. LJ Hooker apologised at the time. 'LJ Hooker Bankstown is always looking for new ways to market our listings; however, this time we missed the mark,' a spokeswoman said. But they appear to have no regrets now. Advertisement A modern four-bedroom home has sold for $1.25million in less than a minute after the auctioneer implemented an unusual sales technique. The real estate agent managed to immediately secure a buyer for the home after he announced the reserve price prior to the auction of the property in the town of Dromana, south of Melbourne, on May 4. In less than 60 seconds one bid from a buyer for $1.25million - the vendor's asking price - secured the sale of the 1016sqm home. A modern four-bedroom home (pictured) sold in less than a minute after the agent announced the reserve price prior to the auction of the property The sale of the $1.25million property in Dromana (pictured), Victoria, is the second highest for the suburb after a home sold for $2.25million in April Listing agent Steve Walsh told Leader: 'By telling buyers the reserve price at the start, they know that perhaps one strong bid would win them the property. 'We are not interested in flapping around and wasting everyone's time. Instead of asking for an opening offer of $1.1 million and getting it above the reserve, we wanted a quick process and make the auction a lot less theatrical.' The reserve price - the lowest bed the seller is prepared to accept - is usually only known by the vendor and agent. The four-bedroom, two bathroom, two-car space home was completed last year and is set over two levels with a spacious kitchen, large family room and balcony views of Port Phillip Bay. The sale of the home is the second biggest for the suburb after a $2.25million home which sold in April. The median house price in Dromana is $767,500, and increased by almost ten per cent in the year to January. The home was completed last year and is set over two levels with two space car security. It features floor to ceiling glass sliding doors opening to a balcony with views of Port Phillip Bay Juan Guaido's deputy was arrested Thursday as Venezuelan intelligence agents used a tow truck to drag his car away while he was still inside it. Guaido, who has been trying to oust President Nicolas Maduro, said Edgar Zambrano had been 'kidnapped' with the US warned of 'consequences' if he is not released. Zambrano's arrest marks the first of an opposition politician since Guaido tried to instigate a military uprising against Maduro last week that ultimately fizzled out. Edgar Zambrano, vice president of Venezuela's opposition Democratic Action party, was arrested outside its headquarters yesterday evening by intelligence agents The agents hooked his car up to a tow truck before driving away with it, and later announcing that 'one of the heads of the coup' had been seized It also come after pro-Maduro lawmakers agreed on Tuesday to strip Zambrano and six other lawmakers of their parliamentary immunity to allow future prosecution. The opposition does not recognize the assembly's decisions. The Supreme Court had earlier accused Zambrano and the other lawmakers of conspiracy, rebellion and treason. Three more legislators found themselves accused on Wednesday. The opposition says Maduro has stacked the court with his own supporters, while the U.S. government this week threatened to sanction all its members. The U.S. government's Venezuelan embassy, now based in Washington, said Zambrano's 'arbitrary detention' was 'illegal and inexcusable.' 'Maduro and his accomplices are those directly responsible for Zambrano's security. If he is not immediately freed, there will be consequences,' the embassy said on Twitter. An attempted uprising last week led by Guaido, recognized by the United States and other Western countries as the rightful head of state, failed to dislodge Maduro, as have a series of U.S. sanctions against his government. Zambrano (left) is the first politician to be arrested since Juan Guaido (right) announced a military uprising against President Maduro last week that ultimately failed Maduro and his allies in Russian and China decried the events as an attempted coup. 'One of the principal conspirators of the coup has just been arrested,' Diosdado Cabello, head of the Constituent Assembly, said on state television. 'They will have to pay before the courts for the failed coup that they attempted.' Zambrano said on Twitter that at about 6.40pm local time SEBIN agents had surrounded his vehicle outside the headquarters of his Democratic Action party in Caracas' La Florida district. 'We were surprised by the SEBIN, and after refusing to let us leave our vehicle, they used a tow truck to forcibly transfer us directly to the (SEBIN headquarters) Helicoide,' he said. It was not yet clear if Zambrano was already at the Helicoide. Guaido invoked the constitution in January to assume an interim presidency, denouncing Maduro as illegitimate after he secured re-election last year in a vote widely viewed as fraudulent. Maduro has overseen the collapse of Venezuela's economy, which has shrunk by half over the past five years, forcing more than 3million Venezuelans to emigrate. Zambrano was among seven lawmakers stripped of their political immunity by Nicolas Maduro's government and charged with conspiracy, rebellion and treason Juan Guaido, leader of the Democratic Action party (HQ pictured), called the arrest a 'kidnapping' while the US threatened 'consequences' if Zambrano is harmed The Constituent Assembly removed Guaido's parliamentary immunity in early April. Authorities have not yet tried to arrest him, but Maduro has said he will 'face justice.' U.S. President Donald Trump's administration has threatened Maduro's government with a harsh response should it ever detain Guaido. Earlier on Wednesday, the Supreme Court's head, Maikel Moreno, rebuffed America's threats to sanction his court's members if they did not reject Maduro's government. The U.S. Treasury Department imposed sanctions on Moreno and the seven principal members of the court's constitutional chamber in 2017 for rulings that 'usurped the authority' of the National Assembly. U.S. Vice President Mike Pence said on Tuesday the Trump administration would soon sanction the 25 remaining members of the court. Pence said the United States was lifting economic sanctions on a former Venezuelan general who turned against Maduro in order to encourage other Maduro allies to follow suit. The head of the Organization of American States, Luis Almagro, said: 'We demand the SEBIN stop the intimidation, respect the lawmakers' parliamentary immunities, and immediately release Edgar Zambrano.' Pauline Hanson has had an emotional meeting with one of her prison pen pals - a 12-year-old girl who the outspoken politician taught 'criticism is not racism'. The One Nation leader was locked up for eleven weeks in 2003 over now discredited fraud allegations. During her time in the Brisbane Women's Correctional Centre, the far-right politician was flooded with up to 4,000 letters from the public, which she has held onto. One handwritten note was from 12-year-old Georgie who struggled to fathom how Ms Hanson ended up in custody. The eager Year Six student sent Ms Hanson a supportive message, telling her to 'keep going' and hold her 'chin up'. Pauline Hanson has met with a fan who was just 12 when she penned a heartfelt letter to the Senator during her stint behind bars Adorably, the letter included crossword puzzles the teenager had ripped from the newspaper. Georgie was worried Ms Hanson would be bored languishing in prison. 'I sent it to her, not thinking she'd reply, no way,' Georgie said in a Facebook video. 'One day I came home from school and there was a letter in the mailbox. I could tell it was adult's handwriting, wasn't a kids' party or something.' Georgie said she was 'stoked' to receive a two-page letter from Ms Hanson, which has since become one of her most prized possessions. 'I would never get rid of that letter, it's been at my bedside table ever since, it's special, she's special,' Georgie said. Georgie read the letter aloud in a video for Pauline Hanson's Facebook page, with the now-senator saying Georgie was a 'clever young woman'. Ms Hanson said most people who disagreed with her were 'ill informed'. 'If they call me racist, ask them to tell you one racist comment I have ever made. Remember, criticism is not racism. Look up the meaning of racist,' the letter read. Ms Hanson was jailed after she was found guilty of fraudulently registering One Nation and fraudulently obtaining about $500,000 for electoral funding. The conviction was quashed on appeal Georgie shared her story in a video shared to Pauline Hanson's Facebook page and was told to read the letter aloud Ms Hanson urged the young girl to stand up for her rights and beliefs and to always have consideration for others. 'I wish you all the best for your future and hope your dreams and aspirations become a reality,' she concluded. Georgie was unaware that Ms Hanson was in the room next door as she read the letter to the camera. Once the letter was finished, Ms Hanson walked through the door and surprised an awestruck Georgie. Shaky and tearful, Georgie leaped from her chair to great the Senator. 'What are you doing here?' Georgie asked. 'I don't know what to say.' The pair then sat on the lounge and Ms Hanson thanked Georgie for the 'special' letter. Georgie, who was 12 at the time and in Year Six, struggled to fathom how Ms Hanson ended up in custody decided to write the Senator a letter 'I wish you all the best for your future and hope your dreams and aspirations become a reality,' Ms Hanson concluded 'The support I received was actually what kept me going,' Ms Hanson said. Ms Hanson said she has never forgotten the people who sent letters over a decade ago and knew she needed to take the time to visit Georgie. 'I was at one of the lowest points of my life,' Ms Hanson said. Georgie thanked Ms Hanson for her thoughtful letter that did not lack in length. 'What I said to you in that letter is really no different than what I say today,' Ms Hanson said. Ms Hanson was jailed after she was found guilty of fraudulently registering One Nation and fraudulently obtaining about $500,000 for electoral funding. Her conviction was overturned on appeal and she was released after serving eleven weeks of her three-year sentence. Snowtown serial killer Robert Joe Wagner is set to learn if he'll ever be released from jail with the South Australian Supreme Court to rule on his bid to have a non-parole period set on his life sentence. Wagner represented himself before the court in March as he argued that having a possible release date would assist with his mental wellbeing. But his application has been opposed by prosecutors and the relatives of his victims. Snowtown serial killer Robert Joe Wagner (pictured in handcuffs) is set to learn if he'll ever be released from jail The serial killings were exposed in 1999 when police found eight dismembered bodies in acid-filled barrels in the vault of a disused bank at Snowtown, South Australia Prosecutor Carmen Matteo said Wagner's crimes were 'of unparalleled seriousness' and urged the court to dismiss his application. While South Australian victims' rights commissioner Bronwyn Killmier told the court Wagner's request was 'a slap in the face' for families affected. Since 1999, the 47-year-old has been serving 10 life sentences over the infamous 'bodies-in-the-barrels' killing spree. The ringleader in the murders, John Justin Bunting, is similarly serving life without parole. Wagner is serving ten consecutive life sentences without parole for his role in the 1999 murders (pictured are three of his victims) The serial killings were exposed in 1999 when police found eight dismembered bodies in acid-filled barrels in the vault of a disused bank at Snowtown, north of Adelaide. Two more bodies were found buried in a backyard at suburban Salisbury North while detectives later linked two further deaths to Bunting and Wagner. After a trial lasting 170 days, Bunting was found guilty of 11 murders with Wagner jailed over 10 of the deaths. Two other men, Mark Ray Haydon and James Spyridon Vlassakis, are also behind bars over the killings; Vlassakis after pleading guilty to four murders and Haydon for helping Wagner and Bunting dispose of the bodies. The court will rule on Wagner's application on Thursday. Kim Kardashian and Kanye West have pledged to help a North Carolina man recently freed from prison by promising to pay to remove his face tattoo. The superstar couple landed into Charlotte on Tuesday to meet with Paul Algarin and his family after he wrote to the reality star upon hearing of her work with prison reform. Kim and Kanye made the special trip a day after attending the Met Gala in New York and were pictured with Paul, who was released from Central Prison in North Carolina last month after serving seven years. Paul's twin sister Azaria wrote on Instagram the family had lunch with the stars before starting the procedure 'of removing [her] brother's face tattoos'. Kim Kardashian and Kanye West have pledged to help a North Carolina man Paul Algarin recently free from prison by promising to pay to remove his face tattoo Paul's twin sister Azaria, left, and mom Sonya, right, joined Paul meeting the superstar couple She said: 'Recently my twin was released from central prison where he served an accumulation of seven years. He asked me for Kims address so he could send her a letter and I rolled my eyes and never sent it. Eventually my mom sent it to him so he would stop harassing us. 'Never in a million years did I think Kim would write him back (or even read his letter), fly in right after the met gala (not to mention her 4th baby is due at any minute), invest in our family & laugh / relate to us over the smallest things. In 2013 reports say Algarin was charged with bringing guns to a Fayetteville high school 'Kim flew in to CLT with her doctor to have lunch with us and start the procedure of removing my brothers face tattoos.' In 2013 Algarin was charged with bringing guns to a Fayetteville high school, according to local reports. His mom Sonya added: 'Yesterday was a great day and also a long day coming. My children and I had the awesome opportunity to meet @kimkardashian and her husband @kanyedoingthings. 'Kim was there to grant a request that my son asked her assistance with which was to remove a tattoo from his face. Thank God she received his letter and was happy to grant his request. 'Her work and dedication to helping others restart their lives and move forward with a more positive start is something that I am extremely grateful for and most appreciative. 'Kim and Kanye taking time out of their busy schedules to come meet and sit with us was amazing and an experience we will always remember.' Paul's twin sister Azaria, pictured with Kanye, wrote on Instagram the family had lunch with the stars before starting the procedure 'of removing [her] brother's face tattoos' The reality TV star began her social justice bids by petitioning President Donald Trump over the release of Tennessee grandmother Alice Marie Johnson in June last year. Since the 63-year-old was pardoned by Trump after meeting Kim at the White House, she has joined campaigns to get other prisoners released. Kim joined attorney Brittany K Barnett and has secretly funded the Buried Alive Project, which has helped free 17 inmates who were handed huge jail sentences for low-level drug offences as part of its 90 Days of Freedom project. Some of Kim's campaigns have been well-publicized, such as former sex slave Cyntoia Brown, Jeffrey Stringer and Johnson, who spent 21 years in prison for a non-violent drug offense. Kim helped get Stringer from Miami out of prison after he was locked up for more than two decades for a low-level drug case. The reality star tweeted on Friday that she helped fund his case after he had been sentenced to life in prison. Kim Kardashian with Alice Marie Johnson, who was pardoned by President Trump after he met with the reality star at the White House last June The Keeping Up With The Kardashians star has since registered with the California State Bar to study law to become a fully-fledged lawyer. Kim must also complete 60 college credits and then work as an apprentice at a law firm in San Francisco with the intention to take the Bar Exam in 2022. Johnson was sentenced to life in prison in 1997 for committing a first-time nonviolent drug crime in Memphis. Kim first heard about her story from Twitter, and she knew something had to change. Kim met with President Donald Trump at the White House in May to discuss the case. The following month, he pardoned Johnson. Many convicts are now getting relief under new guidelines signed into law last year by President Trump. The First Step Act allows some nonviolent offenders to earn credits for good behavior and thus an early release. The news came just a month after it was revealed that Kim had also offered to pay the rent of Matthew Charles, a former inmate who was released from prison after serving 20 years of his 35-year sentence for non-violent drug and weapon charges. Denver will become the first city in the United States to decriminalize magic mushrooms, based on final unofficial results on Wednesday of a ballot initiative about the hallucinogenic drug. The initiative called for Colorados capital to end the imposition of criminal penalties for individuals at least 21 years of age for using or possessing psilocybin, widely known as magic mushrooms. The Denver Elections Divisions will certify results on May 16, but the final count on its website on Wednesday was 50.56 per cent of voters in favor and 49.44 per cent against. Voters in Denver fill out ballots at the Denver Elections Division on Tuesday. The voters were deciding on whether to decriminalize the hallucinogenic drug psilocybin The initiative called for Colorados capital to end the imposition of criminal penalties for individuals at least 21 years of age for using or possessing psilocybin, widely known as magic mushrooms If the initiative is approved, psilocybin would still remain illegal under both Colorado and federal law. The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration classifies the drug as a Schedule 1 substance, meaning the agency has deemed that it has a high potential for abuse with no accepted medical application. Decriminalize Denver, the group behind Tuesdays ballot question, said psilocybin had a wide range of medical benefits. It has been shown to reduce depression and anxiety and to help in treating tobacco, alcohol and opioid addictions, and with alleviating symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), according to the organization. Some opponents worry that if passed, the initiative would increase the citys image as a haven for drugs, given that Colorado was one of the first states to legalize possession and sale of marijuana for adult recreational use. Chris Olson holds a sign near a busy intersection in downtown Denver on Monday as he urges voters to decriminalize the use of psilocybin Denver District Attorney Beth McCann opposed the initiative. But if the measure were approved, she supported formation of a review panel under the initiative to study the effects of the drug and the impact the ordinance would have on Denver, spokeswoman Carolyn Tyler said. Denver residents first voted to decriminalize marijuana possession in 2004, years before Colorado voters ultimately approved its legalization statewide for recreational purposes, establishing a full regulatory framework to license retail outlets and collect sales taxes on cannabis products. A cleaner was forced to drink her own urine to survive while she was trapped in a broken down lift for two days. The woman, thought to be in her 50s, had not been seen since the afternoon of Friday, May 3 and concerns grew when she did not make contact with her family. Her relatives contacted the police - who discovered the employee had become stuck in a lift at the Margate Adult Education Centre in Hawley Square, Kent. The cleaner, who has not been named, was discovered after 12.42pm on Sunday May 5, just under 48 hours after her reported disappearance. The woman's relatives contacted the police - who discovered she had become stuck in a lift at the Margate Adult Education Centre in Hawley Square, Kent (pictured) Kent Live reported that the employee bruised herself trying to escape the lift, before officers forced their way in. A relative also said drank her own urine in a bid to stop dehydration. A statement from the police said: 'While carrying out inquiries, officers found the woman had become trapped in a lift in a building in Hawley Square in Margate. 'Officers were able to manually open the lift and free the woman, who was taken to a local hospital as a precaution. 'The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has been made aware.' A spokesman for HSE said the authority is 'aware and making initial inquiries', but has not confirmed an investigation has been launched as yet. Kent County Council runs the building, but the company responsible for the cleaning and maintenance is Kier Facilities Management - who are the woman's employer. A relative claimed the woman was forced to drink her own urine in a bid to stop dehydration A spokesman for Kent County Council said: 'KCC received a report on Tuesday, May 7 concerning an incident at Margate Adult Education Centre over the previous weekend. 'Kier Facilities Management, which is responsible for the cleaning and maintenance of the building, reported that a member of its cleaning staff had been trapped in a lift. 'KCC and Kier have launched an immediate investigation into the events which is currently progressing; we are unable to comment further until the investigation is complete. 'We are assured that Kier is providing support to the individual for what must have been a stressful ordeal. 'The council will be working with Kier to ensure that the person concerned continues to be supported and any lessons are learnt from the incident.' One lucky punter netted more than 18,000 after she guessed the newest member of the Royal Family would be given the name Archie. The woman, who has not been named, put 120 on the moniker at 150/1 after Baby Sussex was born on her grandson Archie's birthday, according to bookmakers.tv. She scooped up 18,120 and told the website she planned to put her winnings aside for her grandson. The newest arrival to the royal family has been named as Archie Harrison Mountbatten Windsor The Duke and Duchess of Sussex shared a photograph to Instagram yesterday revealing the baby boy's full name The grandmother said: 'The reason I went for Archie was because my grandson, who is born on the same day as the prince, is named Archie. 'So I thought I'd go for a cheeky bet as perhaps my Archie would bring some luck,' she explained. 'Here I am, 18,000 richer; the money though, I'm going to put aside for my grandson.' Several bookmakers were offering 100/1 on the Duke and Duchess of Sussex naming their baby boy Archie, in one of the 'biggest surprises in royal betting history'. Just 100 was staked from 60 bets on Archie, according to Ladbrokes, while Coral said the name drew just a handful of punters. Royal fan Terry Hutt, left, poses with Rupert Adams from the British bookmaker William Hill showing a list for the odds on names for the baby son of Prince Harry and Meghan Both considered Archie to be a huge outsider. Alex Apati, from Ladbrokes, estimated that more than 1 million will be won on all royal baby markets, which also included gender and due date. A spokesman from Coral said: 'We only took a handful of bets on Archie so this has to go down as one of the biggest surprises in royal betting history, as it was a 100/1 outsider before the name was revealed.' The son of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex will not have a royal title like his cousins, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge's children, but will be known simply as Master Archie. In a statement from Buckingham Palace, the royal family announced: 'The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are delighted to announce that they have named their son Archie Harrison. Harry and Meghan (above left and right) appeared with their new bundle of joy and thanked members of the public for their support yesterday 'The baby will be known as Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor.' The surname, used by some members of the royal family, was created to recognise the lineage of both Queen Elizabeth II and her husband, Prince Philip. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex presented their newborn son to the world yesterday, just two days after his birth. Speaking in St George's Hall at Windsor Castle as her husband held their two-day-old child, Meghan said: 'He has the sweetest temperament, he's really calm.' The former American actress added: 'It's magic, it's pretty amazing. I have the two best guys in the world so I'm really happy.' An Australian mother who was found guilty of drug smuggling and thrown into a Cambodian jail for 23 years after she was duped in a love scam has been freed. Yoshe Ann Taylor, 47, was on her way home from Cambodia in 2013 when police found about 2kg of heroin stitched into the lining of a backpack she was carrying. She was sentenced to 23 years behind bars - a verdict that was upheld on appeal in 2016, but fresh evidence meant her case was reopened last year. Yoshe Ann Taylor, 47 (pictured), was on her way home from Cambodia in 2013 when police found about 2kg of heroin stitched into the lining of a backpack she was carrying On Easter Friday, the Cambodian Court of Appeal found Ms Taylor was the innocent victim of a love scam and that she had been lured to Phnom Penh on false promises, ABC News reported. Ms Taylor travelled to the capital city after she met a man who went by the name 'Precious Max' on an online dating site. The man, who claimed to be a South African businessman, not only showed Ms Taylor romantic interest, but also offered to help her set up an arts and craft business in Australia. Ms Taylor always maintained Precious Max, whose real name is Precious Chineme Nwoko, asked her to carry several local artefacts back home for her business. Erring on the side of caution, Ms Taylor checked over the bag prior to travelling and claimed at no point did she find anything untoward in it. So when police stopped her and another woman, who she believed was one of Nwoko's associates, at the airport and found heroin in her bag, she was devastated. Ms Taylor (left) was sentenced to 23 years behind bars in 2013 but fresh evidence meant her case was reopened last year Ms Taylor always maintained Precious Max (pictured), whose real name is Precious Chineme Nwoko, asked her to carry several local artefacts back home for her business Ms Taylor was sentenced to 23 years jail, and shortly afterwards Nwoko was jailed for 27 years after his real identity as a Nigerian drug trafficker and fraudster was revealed. Nwoko is still serving time in prison. Last month, Judge Chay Chandaravann descried Ms Taylor as an honest woman who was consistent in her testimony. He said she had done everything within her power to check the bag before carrying it into the airport - and even photographed the Khmer embroidery inside it. 'You are now free and released,' Judge Chandaravann said. The judge also waived a 50 million riel ($17,366) court fine. Ms Taylor (right) was released and a court fine was waived by the judge Nwoko (centre) was jailed for 27 years after his real identity as a Nigerian drug trafficker and fraudster was revealed After the verdict was read out, the visibly shaken Ms Taylor bowed and thanked the court before being led out by guards, The Sydney Morning Herald reported. The 47-year-old, who spent almost six years behind bars, said she thought the day would never come when she would be free. 'I can't believe it, I can't believe it. I thought it was going to be the same as the last time,' she said after the verdict was read out. 'I have so many people I need to thank, so many of the other prisoners who helped me survive. I want to be able to give them something to thank them.' When Ms Taylor, who has two children she is yet to be reunited with, landed back in Australia on Thursday, she was greeted by her Australian lawyer, Alex Wilson. 'This is going to be a difficult time for her as she readies herself for this period in her life,' Ms Wilson said. Ms Taylor (centre), who spent almost six years behind bars, said she thought the day would never come when she would be free A driver has avoided a horrifying collision on a busy highway after a pair of cyclists suddenly pulled out in front of him. Tony Daskalakis was driving along the Federal Highway in Canberra on Sunday. As he went to take the Monaro Highway exit, dashcam footage showed a group of cyclists riding along the roadside ahead of him. As Mr Daskalakis prepares to take the exit, a pair of cyclists at the head of the pack suddenly pull out in front of him. A driver has avoided a horrifying collision on a busy highway after a pair of cyclists suddenly pulled out in front of him (pictured, dashcam footage captured the ensuing near miss along the Federal Highway in Canberra) The cyclists are only metres away from the oncoming car before they make the dangerous manoeuvre. Neither one appears to turn their head to check for traffic. The driver, who is travelling at 100km/h, is forced to swerve into the next lane and slow down considerably. While he managed to avoid both cyclists, the near miss has left Mr Daskalakis outraged. The fuming driver took to Facebook to share footage of the close call. 'There is a crossing about 20 metres up where they are meant to cross, now if I hit him who would be at fault?' he said. The video has been viewed more than 45,000 times and sparked condemnation from social media users. 'And they wonder why they constantly get hit by cars,' one person commented. Another person said: 'We had that happen on Anzac Highway once. 'A row of cyclists, single file along kerb and all of a sudden one just swerves out in front of us and back in again. Seemingly no rhyme nor reason for it but he came so close to us cleaning him up.' Other social media users said the incident only contributes to the harmful narrative against cyclists. 'That cyclist is lucky to be alive. All i can say drivers out there is that not all cyclists are this stupid. Many do abide by the law, hence please don't generalise.' The cyclists are only metres away from the oncoming car before they make the dangerous maneuver (pictured, neither cyclist appears to turn their head to check for oncoming traffic) Britain will not be able to keep out the sea with 'ever higher' flood defences in the face of climate change, the Environment Agency has warned. The agency chairman Emma Howard Boyd warned 'we cannot win a war against water' by building bigger walls. Instead we have to accept that houses and infrastructure must be built to cope with flooding. Britain will not be able to keep out the sea with 'ever higher' flood defences in the face of climate change, the Environment Agency has warned. Pictured, a man paddling through the streets of Braunton in North Devon during flooding in 2015 Raised electrics, hard floorings and 'flood gates' on houses are all measures that should be installed in new homes, she warned. Despite this, traditional flood walls are still needed and will cost an additional 1billion each year. Without increased investment, flood damage to properties and infrastructure in England will significantly increase, the EA strategy says. Currently the UK spends around 430 million a year on flood defences. The warning comes as the government agency publishes its long-term strategy for managing the risk of flood and coastal erosion. It is planning for the potential of up to 4C of warming, well beyond the 1.5C or 2C limits which have been agreed internationally and are seen as thresholds beyond which dangerous climate change will occur. The Environment Agency previously issued this long-term flood risk map for England The Environment Agency (EA) also predicts that climate change and population growth are set to double the number of properties built on the flood plain over the next 50 years. Alongside traditional defences, other measures to help communities become resilient to flooding are needed. These could include temporary barriers, natural flood management schemes such as planting trees to slow the flow of rivers and sustainable drainage systems with ponds and areas where water can soak away into the ground. Environment Minister Therese Coffey said: 'Flooding and coastal erosion can have terrible consequences for people, businesses and the environment.' This will deliver positive benefits for the environment as well, such as creating habitat for wildlife. There should be effective flood warnings and emergency response will be needed, alongside designing and adapting new and existing properties to help them recover quickly from a flood. And with only a third of people who live in areas at risk of flooding believing their property is under threat, the agency wants to build a nation of 'climate champions' educating youngsters through the curriculum about the risks of floods. Launching the strategy at Brunel University in London, Ms Howard Boyd said: 'The coastline has never stayed in the same place and there have always been floods, but climate change is increasing and accelerating these threats. 'We can't win a war against water by building away climate change with infinitely high flood defences. 'We need to develop consistent standards for flood and coastal resilience in England that help communities better understand their risk and give them more control about how to adapt and respond.' She urged: 'More should be done to encourage property owners to build back better and in better places after a flood, rather than just recreating what was there before. 'This could involve home improvements, such as raised electrics, hard flooring, and flood doors.' But she also warned: 'In some places, the scale of the threat may be so significant that recovery will not always be the best long term solution.' 'In these instances, we will help communities to move out of harm's way.' Environment Minister Therese Coffey said: 'Flooding and coastal erosion can have terrible consequences for people, businesses and the environment. 'That's why we are already providing 2.6 billion over six years, delivering more than 1,500 projects to better protect 300,000 homes. 'But the threat of climate change will mean an increasing risk and preparing the country is a priority for the Government, and the nation as a whole.' The Government will be launching a call for evidence to inform future action towards flood and coastal erosion risks, she said. Virgilio Martinez says he was stopped as he brought 40 piranhas in a duffel bag through Los Angeles International Airport A world-famous restaurateur who starred in Netflix's Chef's Table was stopped bringing 40 piranhas through Los Angeles International Airport last week. Virgilio Martinez, chef-owner of the exclusive Central restaurant in Peru, says he hoped to serve the predatory, sharp-toothed fish during an LA food festival. He told The Los Angeles Times on Wednesday that customs agents pulled him into an interrogation room when they found the cache of frozen, vacuum-sealed piranhas. Martinez was featured in the third season of the Netflix show 'Chef's Table'. He said his latest ingredient sent customs officers 'into a panic'. He said: 'I was extremely obsessed about bringing piranhas because we serve piranhas in the Amazon at Central, so I said, "Guys, why not take a risk to bring piranhas to L.A.?" 'You probably have preconceived notions about piranhas because of movies but for me, piranhas, we go fish them.' When asked what was inside his bag Martinez said he replied: 'Bones. Flesh.' But his joke ended up in an interrogation by additional officers. Virgilio Martinez, chef-owner of Central restaurant in Peru, told the Los Angeles Times on Wednesday that he hoped to serve the predatory, sharp-toothed fish during an LA food festival Martinez was featured in the third season of the Netflix show Chef's Table. He says customs agents pulled him into an interrogation room last week when they found the frozen piranhas A piranha dish served at Central in Lima, Peru. After five hours, the agents let Martinez through with the fish. He used them that night on a salad and he says the following night he dried the piranha skins and served them inside the piranha heads (stock image) He said he told them: 'I'm doing a special dinner with a friend who I really respect and I'm going to do a dish I really enjoy doing. 'I told him that it was from my heart and showed him a few photos. I took my book and said, "Look, this is what I want to do with the piranhas." And he finally said, "Oh, wow, go ahead".' After five hours, the agents let Martinez through with the vacuum-sealed fish and he used them that night on a salad. The following night he dried the piranha skins and served them inside the piranha heads. Piranhas are common in South American rivers. He added: 'I bet most people here have never tried piranhas. I told the people at the Somni dinner that I spent five hours for you, so you better enjoy it.' Birthday wishes Call 281-422-8302 or email david.bloom@baytownsun.com to wish someone a happy birthday. We will print your birthday wish on Page 2 of The Sun. Happy Birthday Wishes The small town of Beaconsfield couldn't be much more different to Canberra, but it was there, more than a decade ago, that Bill Shorten began his march to The Lodge. When the Tasmanian gold mine collapsed at 9.26pm on Anzac Day, 2006, the then Australian Workers Union national secretary was in Canada on a business trip. But within hours Mr Shorten had begun the journey to Tasmania, wanting to be there as the effort got underway to rescue trapped miners Todd Russell and Brant Webb. It took 14 days to free the pair, during which time Mr Shorten became the face of the incident - his image broadcast endlessly into homes across the country as he gave regular updates on the search. His support for the miners, their families and the small town of 1,000 people was the first step on his way to being the front-runner for the upcoming election on May 18. Now, on the 13th anniversary of the day he walked free, Todd Russell told Daily Mail Australia that Mr Shorten had kept in regular touch since the disaster and is, in his view, the best man to lead the country. Labor leader Bill Shorten (centre) has a beer with Todd Russell (left) and Brant Webb (right), the two survivors of the 2006 Beaconsfield mine disaster, while on the campaign trail back in 2016 In his role as national secretary of the Australian Workers Union, Mr Shorten (pictured) became the face of the Beaconsfield disaster by providing regular updates to media throughout the 14 days that Mr Russell and Mr Webb remained trapped in the gold mine (pictured in background) Mr Shorten's heavy involvement in the Beaconsfield disaster made him a household name and was the catalyst for his rapid rise through the ranks of the Labor party and federal politics 'He's a ripper of a bloke. He'll have my support - he always has,' Mr Russell said of the Labor leader. 'My mum, dad and (my ex-wife) Caroline all had a hell of a lot to do with him over the 14 days (I was trapped), and they loved him. 'You find people either love Bill Shorten or you hate Bill Shorten, but the way I see it, a lot of people don't see the "real" Bill Shorten behind the scenes. 'I sat and watched his interview yesterday when he talked about where he came from with his mother and his brother... it just goes to show he is a human.' Mr Shorten's involvement in the Beaconsfield disaster began on Friday, April 28 - the day he finally arrived in the small town after flying in from the other side of the world. The night before he toughed down, rescue crews had recovered the body of father-of-three Larry Knight. The news that Mr Knight - who had been working just metres from Mr Russell and Mr Webb at the time of the collapse - had been killed, left many to lose hope of finding the other two men alive. He's a ripper of a bloke. He'll always have my support Ex-miner Todd Russell on Bill Shorten Mr Shorten spent close to 48 hours on the ground in Beaconsfield, before flying back to his hometown of Melbourne on Sunday. He later admitted that at that point, the feeling around Beaconsfield was 'grim'. Unbeknownst to Mr Shorten, the rescuers and the rest of the world watching in, 926 metres below the surface Mr Russell and Mr Webb were still alive. The pair had survived the first five days by sharing a single muesli bar, collecting water in their hard hats as it seeped through the rocks and singing 'The Gambler' by Kenny Rogers - the only song both men knew - to keep their spirits up. Finally, at 5.45pm on Sunday, April 30, two of their colleagues breached mine safety protocol and went down to the level where they had last been. Once there, they yelled out and Mr Russell and Mr Webb responded: 'We're in here'. The first photo taken of Todd Russell (right) and Brant Webb (left) after rescue workers reached them in the early hours of May 9, 2006 Todd Russell (pictured) was more than 900 metres underground when an earthquake caused a collapse in the mine, trapping him and his colleague Brant Webb. The pair were underground for 14 days before finally walking free in the early hours of May 9, 2006 The image of Mr Russell and Mr Webb removing their tags from the wall where they had sat for the past 14 days remains one of the most iconic in Australian history Mr Russell said he has 'always' supported Mr Shorten and said his emotional speech about his mother (pictured) on Wednesday showed the human side to him that not many people see Mr Shorten defended his mother Ann (pictured) after it was suggested he had left key details about her life out of a speech he gave on Q&A on Monday night Upon hearing that the two men were alive, Mr Shorten called billionaire businessman Richard Pratt - a family friend of his then wife Deborah Beale - and asked to borrow a private jet. The late cardboard king approved and the AWU boss was in Tasmania within hours. 'I knew it was important to be on the ground early and quickly,' Mr Shorten said. He did not leave Tasmania again until days after Mr Russell and Mr Webb were freed. Coincidentally, Mr Shorten's mother Ann just so happened to be a friend of the mine manager's mother. This friendship enabled a friendly dialogue between the AWU and mine management with the pair agreeing that it would be best if Mr Shorten took the lead when it came to the media. The whole issue is not about me - it's about these blokes Bill Shorten bristles at suggestions he is using the disaster to enhance his public image in 2006 At the time of the mine collapse the union boss had already been earmarked as a future Labor politician and potential party leader. But Mr Shorten bristled at suggestions his involvement in the Beaconsfield disaster was done with one eye on his future political ambitions. 'The whole issue is not about me - it's about the blokes,' he said. Mr Shorten would end up becoming the member for Maribyrnong little more than a year after Beaconsfield, but his good friend Mr Russell insists the now Labor leader's intentions were always pure. BEACONSFIELD: HOW THE MINING DISASTER UNFOLDED AND MADE BILL SHORTEN A NATIONAL NAME Tuesday, April 25, 2006 - 9.26pm: A small earthquake causes a collapse below the Beaconsfield gold mine in northern Tasmania - Mine operator Larry Knight and his colleagues Todd Russell and Brant Webb are working together 925 metres below the surface - The collapse killed Mr Knight instantly and forced Mr Russell and Mr Webb to hid in their cage as rocks fell down around them - At the time of the collapse 14 other miners were below the surface, but they all managed to scramble to safety - On the other side of the world in Canada, Australian Workers Union (AWU) national secretary Bill Shorten hears of the news and begins to travel home Wednesday, April 26 - The rescue attempt begins with a remote-controlled earth working machine digging at the rock around where the three men were last known to have been Thursday, April 27 - At 7.22am a body is discovered by the earth worker. It is later identified to be that of Larry Knight, a 44-year-old father-of-three Friday, April 28 - Mr Shorten arrives at the Beaconsfield mine for the first time after making the 15,000km journey from Canada Sunday, April 30 - With little hope that either Mr Russell or Mr Webb will be found alive, Mr Shorten travels back to his hometown Melbourne. He plans to return to the mine site on Monday - At 5.45pm two rescue workers venture beyond the approved search area and yell out. Miraculously, Mr Webb and Mr Russell respond: 'We're down here' - Back in Melbourne, Mr Shorten calls billionaire businessman Richard Pratt and asks to borrow his private jet to fly directly to Beaconsfield. The AWU boss is back on the ground within a matter of hours - Mr Shorten's mother Ann happened to be family friends with the head of the mine Matthew Gill. This helps in bridging the otherwise frosty relationship that had previously existed between the union and the mine - The pair agree that Mr Shorten should front the media and provide regular updates on the rescue effort Monday, May 1 to Monday, May 8 - Despite knowing where the men are the rescue crew finds it difficult to get to their exact location, encountering several tough rock walls and several minor collapses - During this time Mr Shorten provides regular updates on the progress of the rescue effort, making him a common face in households around Australia Tuesday, May 9 - Just after 4am on Tuesday, May 9, the rescue workers reach the two men. Mr Webb and Mr Russell are taken for medical examination before going up to the surface - Todd Russell and Brant Webb walk out of the Beaconsfield mine at 5.58am. A few hours later both men attend the funeral for their colleague, Larry Knight Sunday, May 21 - After enormous interest and a bidding war, Mr Russell and Mr Webb agree to an interview with Channel Nine. The pair were rumoured to have been paid a combined $2.6million Advertisement Mr Russell (left) told Daily Mail Australia that every year around Anzac Day - the anniversary of them becoming trapped underground - both he and Mr Webb (far right) receive a call from Mr Shorten (centre). 'He rings me and says: 'Hey mate, I'm thinking of ya',' Mr Russell revealed Mr Shorten walks alongside Brant Webb (front) and Todd Russell (back) in the days after they were freed from the mine. He has returned to Tasmania and caught up with the men on multiple occasions since 'I find Bill on a personal note very professional and what he did for my family, Brant's family and Larry's family too, during the course of the rescue and after it, you've got to take your hat off to him,' the former miner said. 'And here he is, 13 years later, and he still rings me every year around Anzac Day. 'It may not be on Anzac Day and this year it wasn't, it was a couple of days after but he rings me and says: 'Hey mate, I'm thinking of ya'. 'So then we'll have a 10 or 15 minute conversation away from politics and I just said to him: 'Bill, I appreciate the phone call with everything you're going through right now with your campaign'. 'There's a lot of people out there that dislike him, but on a personal note if they got to know the person that he is behind the scenes he's a tremendous guy he really is.' Alistair Inglis, 39, from Plymouth, said he left the Marines in May 2012 to work in maritime security because of his concerns about his 'deteriorating levels of hearing' A former Royal Marine has been awarded more than 500,000 damages after the roar of battle in Afghanistan left him with the hearing of 'someone in their early 70s'. Alistair Inglis who served for nearly 15 years, said he left the Marines in May 2012 to work in maritime security because of his concerns about his 'deteriorating levels of hearing'. The 39-year-old, from Plymouth, was forced to endure 'the noise from thousands of rounds of ammunition, thunder-flash stun grenades, helicopters and other aircraft and explosive devices'. Mr Inglis, who also worked in maritime security protecting merchants ships 'against the threat of pirates', sued the Ministry of Defence for 'noise-induced hearing loss', suffered during his time in the ranks between 1997 and 2012. Now at London's High Court, Judge Peter Marquand has awarded him 545,766.60 in damages in a landmark case which could open the floodgates to hundreds of others and ultimately cost the MoD millions. Mr Inglis' case was spearheading over 200 other similar claims against the MoD - with veterans claiming for hearing damage caused during training exercises and the combat zone. In Mr Inglis' case the MoD had admitted his hearing loss and tinnitus arose 'as a result of his negligent exposure to noise whilst serving in the Royal Marines', and agreed that liability should be split '80:20 in the claimant's favour'. But the MoD disputed the amount of damages Mr Inglis, who is from Plymouth, was entitled to. It argued that he left voluntarily while still 'fit for all duties'. Giving judgment at the High Court in London on Wednesday, Judge Marquand found that the 39-year-old 'left the Royal Marines because of his hearing loss'. The judge ruled that the MoD must pay damages including more than 200,000 to cover future loss of earnings and just over 280,000 for future loss of pension. Judge Marquand said an application by the MoD for permission to appeal against his ruling had been refused. The 39-year-old sued the Ministry of Defence for 'noise-induced hearing loss', suffered during his time in the ranks between 1997 and 2012 (stock image) Ruling in Mr Inglis' favour on that central issue, the judge said: 'During his service Mr Inglis was issued with a variety of SA 80 rifles, other rifles, sub-machine guns and handguns. 'He was exposed to noise from thousands of rounds of ammunition, thunder-flash stun grenades, helicopters and other aircraft and explosive devices. 'I have concluded that the reason Mr Inglis left the Corps was due to the damage to his hearing and to prevent further damage. 'Accordingly he is entitled to compensation for that damage, his loss of earnings, pension and other losses, caused as a result of his hearing loss.' Mr Inglis' lawyers said after the ruling that they have more than 2,200 other cases and are being contacted by service personnel with debilitating hearing problems on a daily basis. Simon Ellis, a partner at Hugh James who represents Mr Inglis, said in a statement: 'The compensation awarded recognises the significant impact that Mr Inglis's injuries will have on his earning capacity, both now and for much of the rest of his life. 'The judge has rightly considered the detrimental effect of Mr Inglis's hearing loss on his civilian career options, taking into account approximately 20 years of reduced earnings over the remainder of his working life, as well as a significant loss of pension. 'The award announced today goes some way to allowing Mr Inglis to move on with his life after his employer failed to protect him, in a job where he was putting his life on the line to protect his country.' At a hearing in March, Mr Inglis' barrister Harry Steinberg QC told the court his client enlisted in February 1997, aged 17, for a '22-year open engagement'. He was first deployed in Northern Ireland, and later served in Afghanistan, where he was a 'section commander in Helmand province' and 'repeatedly came under fire', Mr Steinberg said. He said Mr Inglis became his platoon's weapons instructor and was promoted to corporal in 2005, adding that both were 'prestigious positions of responsibility and trust'. Mr Inglis, of Plymouth, says Army bosses did not do enough to prevent hearing damage from years of putting up with the deafening sound of weapons and tanks in training and in Afghanistan. File image used He submitted that Mr Inglis - who now works as a health and safety officer - intended to serve more than his 22 years, if possible, but 'his situation changed for the worse as a result of the damage to his hearing'. Mr Steinberg said Mr Inglis applied to leave the Marines seven months after he had been selected for promotion to sergeant, and would have been in line for a full pension immediately on serving his full 22 years. He argued that it was 'highly unlikely that (Mr Inglis) would have abandoned his successful military career and those mid-term financial rewards had it not been for his noise-induced hearing problems'. He said that Mr Inglis's hearing deficit was 'equivalent to that of a man in his early 70s' and would 'inevitably get worse as he ages'. Sam Healey, for the MoD, submitted that there was 'no prospect of (Mr Inglis) being medically discharged in the foreseeable future' when he left the Marines. He said Mr Inglis left 'to pursue a career in maritime security, at the time a lucrative line of work for Royal Marines looking for a change of career', and that he earned 'considerably more' in his maritime security role than as a Marine. Mr Healey added that it was 'likely that (Mr Inglis) would have been offered employment in a specialisation with reduced noise exposure' if he had remained in the Marines. Melanie Liverpool-Turner died by suicide aged 33 at a New York prison on Wednesday. She had served just one month of a 20-year prison sentence handed down at a hearing on April 5 (above) after she pleaded guilty to pushing a stranger unprovoked in front of a New York City subway train in 2016 A mentally ill woman who pushed a stranger unprovoked in front of a New York City subway train to her death has committed suicide in prison. A spokesperson for the State Department of Corrections confirmed that Melanie Liverpool-Turner, 33, had died of 'an apparent suicide' at the Bedford Hills Correctional Facility in Westchester County in the early hours on Wednesday. Liverpool-Turner had served just one month of a 20-year prison sentence handed down on April 5 after she pleaded guilty to shoving 49-year-old Connie Watton in the path of an oncoming 1 train in Times Square on November 7, 2016. At her sentencing, the defendant's attorney Aaron Wallenstein described how she had been failed by the system as her struggles with multiple mental illnesses were well documented. He noted that Liverpool-Turner, a native of Trinidad, had an 'unblemished' criminal record but struggled with years of sexual abuse as a child and suffered from bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. Less than one month before Watton's murder, Liverpool-Turner witnessed someone commit suicide by jumping in front of a train in the Union Square station. At the time, she provided a false confession to the NYPD and told them: 'I hear voices. I push people in front of trains.' She was admitted to the psychiatric ward at the Bellevue Hospital, but was released soon after. Scroll down for video Liverpool-Turner, who suffered from bipolar disorder and schizophrenia, is seen during her arrest for shoving Connie Watton, 49, in front of a train by Times Square on November 7, 2016 The victim's husband, Robert Watton, has sued Liverpool-Turner along with the the city Health & Hospitals Corporation and the New York Transit Authority. He shared a statement at Liverpool-Turner's sentencing hearing, telling the court: 'I am haunted when imagining what happened to Connie that day by this demented piece of garbage. This murderer. Connie didn't deserve what happened to her. The victim's husband Robert Watton is seen in court after Liverpool-Turner's sentencing last month. At the hearing he told the defendant: 'You are heartless and you have no soul' 'Melanie means darkness. You are heartless and you have no soul.' Watton described his wife - who immigrated to the Philippines when she was 16 - as always willing to help others. She had been 'extremely generous and giving' and was even sending money home to put her family through college. Two of her nephews were forced to drop out of school as a result of their aunt's death. 'This murdering psychopath will be eligible for parole at the age that Connie lived until,' Watton added. 'Why should you get a second chance? Connie doesn't get a second chance. She is a danger to the public, and I wish nothing but life behind bars for this psychopath.' Wallenstein acknowledged that Watton's death was 'nothing short of a tragedy' but said that given his client's 'serious mental problems ... society needs to take some responsibility as well'. When imposing the maximum sentence, Judge Michael Obus said: 'Thousands of people ride the subway every day. This is truly the quintessential urban nightmare when a total stranger takes it upon them self to snuff out someone else's life.' At her sentencing, Liverpool-Turner's defendant's attorney Aaron Wallenstein (second from right) described how she had been failed by the system as her struggles with multiple mental illnesses were well documented. He also said she'd been abused as a child Seventeen have since been charged - three with directing a criminal group More than a dozen people have been charged over an elaborate scheme involving a fake family daycare business in New South Wales that allegedly defrauded taxpayers of about $4 million. Police allege the company's director alone had a take-home pay of $30,000 a fortnight from the fraudulent activity, described as more sophisticated and better co-ordinated than bikie gangs. Three men - aged 24, 40 and 49 - and 15 women - aged between 21 and 44 - were arrested on Wednesday after raids on 23 properties in Sydney's southwest and the Illawarra region. More than a dozen people have been charged over an elaborate scheme involving a fake family daycare business in New South Wales that allegedly defrauded taxpayers of about $4million (pictured is one of the arrests) Seventeen of those have since been charged - three with directing a criminal group and 14 with participating in a criminal group. 'The whole thing was a very elaborate, syndicated criminal organised crime venture,' Acting Assistant Commissioner Stuart Smith told reporters in Sydney on Thursday. 'We saw a level of sophistication or coordination in this that we don't see in outlaw motorcycle gangs'. It's alleged the family daycare company was set up to look like a legitimate business, operating out of several locations and pretending to look after a large group of children. Police allege the company's director alone had a take-home pay of $30,000 a fortnight from the fraudulent activity, described as more sophisticated and better co-ordinated than bikie gangs (pictured is one of the arrests) 'It created time sheets, it had photographs of children that were not in care. It had mock-up areas, it had an administrative structure and rostering - like anything else in a legitimate business,' Mr Smith said. 'However, the whole thing was a fraud.' More than 150 parents laid claims to rebate from the federal government - each one of them having between three and seven children, Mr Smith said. Police allege the fake agency acquired about $4 million in rebates, with the director receiving a 'take-home pay of around $30,000 per fortnight from the fraudulent activity.' Mr Smith said it was just the start of Strike Force Mercury, and further arrests have not been ruled out. Bill Shorten's decision to decline to meet with Rupert Murdoch in the lead-up to the federal election made him the first Labor leader to turn down the media tycoon's invitation in modern history. Murdoch asked to meet with Mr Shorten in New York, but the Opposition Leader broke with a long-standing tradition and turned him down, saying 'my real conversation is not with the rich and powerful in this country'. Relations between News Corp and Mr Shorten have never recovered from his bold statement about Australia's most powerful media tycoon, with tensions finally spilling over on Wednesday when Sydney's Daily Telegraph published a front-page story claiming the Labor leader omitted key details about his mother Ann's life story. However, rather than the story hurting Mr Shorten, his response to the article has seemingly only won him support in the electorate. Voice quavering, a tearful Mr Shorten accused his critics of mounting a 'grubby political hit', after the newspaper claimed he had been 'slippery' by saying his mother was a struggling teacher - but not mentioning she eventually became a barrister. Rupert Murdoch (right, with son Lachlan) asked to meet with Mr Shorten in New York, but the Opposition Leader broke with a long-standing tradition and turned him down Relations between News Corp and Mr Shorten (pictured with Labor deputy leader Tanya Plibersek) have never recovered from his bold statement about Australia's most powerful media tycoon Mr Shorten's reluctance to meet with Murdoch broke a long-standing tradition where the ALP's leaders would travel to the U.S. to speak with him and News Corp executives. Former Prime Minister Kevin Rudd was famously kicked out of a New York strip club called Scores while on a night out with Col Allan - then the editor of the Murdoch-owned New York Post - while representing Australia at the United Nations in 2003. Since being ousted from office, Mr Rudd has repeatedly called for a royal commission into News' influence on Australian politics and their 'abuse of the near monopoly' in the nation's media. Mr Rudd's successor Julia Gillard complained about News' coverage of her government, particularly her carbon tax policy. But she reportedly met with Mr Murdoch in New York as prime minister and held meetings with the nation's editors. At one point during her prime ministership, the Daily Telegraph accused Ms Gillard's communications minister Stephen Conroy of trying to censor the media, like Robert Mugabe. He (Mr Murdoch) does not have a vote in this election. Labor deputy leader Tanya Plibersek, doubling down this morning During an appearance on Q&A on Monday, Mr Shorten said his late mother's dream to be a lawyer was dashed at a young age. Dr Ann Shorten, who died aged 79 in 2014, progressed to the bar in her 50s after earlier working as a school teacher. The Daily Telegraph used that omission to launch a character attack on Mr Shorten - an effort that he described as a 'political hit' and a 'new low' in an emotional response. 'So I'd say to whoever thought they'd organised a political hit on me in the election to cast some doubt, I can hear my mum now say, "Don't worry about that rubbish",' Mr Shorten said on Wednesday morning. No fans of News Corp: Former Labor Prime Ministers Julia Gillard (left) and Kevin Rudd (right) both complained about Murdoch's company at length after meeting with the media mogul 'But she might tell whoever's pulling down a six-figure sum at the Daily Telegraph, "Look it up".' Labor doubled down on its attacks on Mr Murdoch's media empire on Thursday morning. Deputy leader Tanya Plibersek said there was a 'pretty obvious bias' against Labor in News Corp papers, in a bid to 'protect their business interests'. 'This is a company that between 2013 and 2017 paid no corporate tax in Australia. In 2015 the ATO said this is the number one company to watch, in terms of reducing or avoiding tax,' she told ABC radio on Thursday. 'More to the point, Rupert Murdoch gave up his Australian citizenship. He does not have a vote in this election. Millions of Australians do. 'They should decide for themselves, not based on misinformation from corporate interests protecting their right to pay no tax.' It may look a spaceship - but it's actually a hi-tech escape pod from the land of the living designed by Australia's notorious 'Dr Death'. Dr Philip Nitschke and a Dutch industrial designer have shown off a grim 'suicide pod' which he hopes people will one day be able to 3D print off at home. Dr Nitschke said the new contraption - which is currently on display in Venice - could make it easier for people to circumvent assisted suicide laws. 'In a way it looks like a vehicle, I suppose you could say this is a device taking someone to another place,' he said. The Sarco is currently on display in Vence and will soon be on its way to Switzerland to be used Dr Nitschke (pictured) said the new contraption could make it easier for people to circumvent assisted suicide laws Just a few years ago, Dr Nistchke was selling nitrogen cans to people wanting to die, under the guise of running a beer keg company. But this device is the controversial Dr Nitschke's most highly sophisticated attempt at assisting people who want to commit voluntary euthanasia. Known as the Sarco, the device is designed to be used without the assistance of a doctor. The system would require a potential user to consult with a doctor to ensure they are of an entirely sound mind before they use the machine. After the doctor's assessment users will be given a code to activate the euthanising process. Users breathe in a poisonous gas and drift off into unconsciousness. The device does not involve an injection like other voluntary euthanasia methods used in Europe. 'If you're alive you are breathing and if you are breathing the liquid nitrogen you are going to die,' Dr Nitschke said. Dr Nitschke said some people may be intimidated by the idea of dying by themselves in a sealed container. '(This issue) is occasionally raised, they say 'I quite like the idea of lying down and holding peoples hand as they die',' he said. 'It doesn't worry everyone though and people make contact everyday about the Sarco. Users breathe in liquid nitrogen and drift off into unconsciousness. The device does not involve an injection like other voluntary euthanasia methods used in Europe Currently the technology is limited as few 3D printers are of the industrial scale to create a Sarco. Dr Nitschke said after the process is completed it can be used as a coffin, making dealing with the person's body much easier. The Sarco will be show at the Venice Design exhibition on Thursday and Friday before making its way to Switzerland to be used for the first time. If you or a loved one need confidential support, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 at any time of the day or night. A teacher who admitted to having sex with a student has walked free from court after she successfully appealed against her sentence. Sonia Ruth Mackay, 43, was jailed last year after she pleaded guilty to the persistent sexual exploitation of a 17-year-old boy in an Adelaide Catholic school. However, the Court of Criminal Appeal on Thursday overturned the more than four-year sentence and handed her a good behaviour bond. During the sentencing in December, Judge Liesl Chapman said Mackay had struck up a sexual relationship with a student in her English class. Sonia Ruth Mackay, 43 (pictured, outside court during last year's sentencing), was jailed last December she pleaded guilty to the persistent sexual exploitation of a 17-year-old boy in Adelaide The Court of Criminal Appeal on Thursday overturned the more than four-year sentence and handed her a good behaviour bond (pictured, the family of Sonia Mackay pictured leave the District court in Adelaide after her conviction last year) Over the course of a month, the pair also drank alcohol and smoked cigarettes and cannabis together, and Mackay bought the boy presents and a nose piercing. The boy's parents became suspicious and approached the school principal, who reported the matter to police. When confronted by his mother, the victim admitted the sexual relationship and said he was in love with Mackay. Judge Chapman said it was clear Mackay's crimes had devastated the victim and his family. 'Your behaviour was manipulative and unforgivable,' she told Mackay. 'You seem to have lost touch with reality and were living in some sort of fantasy land.' In a victim impact statement read to the court during the trial, the boy said he was an 'above-average student' who dreamed of becoming a dentist before he began receiving personal attention from Mackay. During the sentencing in December, Judge Liesl Chapman said Mackay had struck up a sexual relationship with a student in her English class (pictured, Mackay) 'Over the following months, we spent more and more time talking and texting and I lost all focus on my studies,' he said. 'A life of sex and alcohol with Sonia Mackay was more appealing than reading a book and writing assignments.' He said he withdrew from friends and family in fear of being caught and, when the relationship was discovered, he felt ashamed and embarrassed. The boy said he had been left with emotional, financial and physical impacts of Mackay's crime, including painful scars where she burnt his flesh with a cigarette. 'These scars were inflicted as a way of marking me and showing that I belong to her,' he said. Mackay had initially been sentenced to four years, five months in jail with a non-parole period of two years, one month. The boy's parents became suspicious and approached the school principal, who reported the matter to police A man who stabbed a young father to death will start his jail sentence a day before his mother is released after spending two decades behind bars for murder herself. Michael Patrick Walker, 24, will spend at least 18 years in prison for killing Axel Boreski, 27, with a paring knife in Mandurah, south of Perth, in 2017. Walker's mother is set to be released on Thursday, after being jailed for murder in 1999 when he was just four years old. Michael Patrick Walker (pictured) has been sentenced to a minimum 18 years in jail, a day before his mother is set to be released Father Axel Boreski (pictured) was killed after he was repeatedly stabbed by Michael Patrick Walker Walker, who had no prior convictions, had a difficult upbringing and was exposed to drug use and violence as a child, defence counsel Edward Fitzpatrick told the sentencing hearing at the Supreme Court of WA on Wednesday. 'He's unfortunately turned out just like his mother,' Mr Fitzpatrick said while describing the killing as a short-lived 'explosive rage' that Walker swiftly regretted. Walker went looking for Mr Boreski in the streets of Halls Head in the early hours of July 28, moments after a backyard brawl between the pair made him feel humiliated. He and his girlfriend had met Mr Boreski and his friend hours earlier at a Mandurah bar, and got on so well the couple invited the pair back to the duplex she shared with her mother. They sat in the backyard and continued drinking, listening to music, before an argument erupted. The fight only stopped when Walker's girlfriend's mother emerged and demanded Mr Boreski leave. The 24-year-old stabbed Mr Boreski seven times with a paring knife after he felt humiliated because his victim got the upper hand in a drunken fight She tried to stop Walker following but he grabbed a paring knife and caught up with the victim some 150 metres down the road, stabbing him seven times. The knife broke into three pieces when Walker struck the final blow into Boreski's knee. Walker was brought up by his grandparents and started to suffer depression after his grandmother died when he was 14. He had been taking anti-depressant medication in the months prior to the attack. Mr Boreski's grandfather Murray Hayward has asked young people to avoid alcohol-fuelled violence. 'Please young people, stay away from the alcohol fuelled violence, it's this is how things end up which is no good for anybody, particularly families, stop it please,' he said outside the court on Wednesday Michael Leon Curry, 51, dubbed himself the 'Night Stalker'. Authorities say they've dismissed a first-degree murder charge against him in a 1986 cold case slaying following new DNA analysis A man who allegedly confessed four times to killing a nurse three decades ago in Michigan and wrote on Facebook that he had never killed anyone who didn't deserve it has seen his first-degree murder charge dismissed. Michael Leon Curry, 51 - who dubbed himself the 'Night Stalker' - was charged in March with murder in the 1986 strangulation of 59-year-old Wilda Wilkinson in her Bangor home. But Chief Assistant Prosecutor Keith Robinson said Tuesday the charge was dismissed at the end of April 'based on new information' and 'to allow for further investigation.' The charge was dismissed without prejudice, meaning Curry could be charged later. Robinson didn't release more details, citing the ongoing investigation into Wilkinson's death. Curry, who police said had earlier confessed to the killing, had been living in California. He was brought to Michigan and jailed, but has since been released. A state police investigator testified in March that Curry had confessed four times in the late 1980s to breaking into Wilkinson's home and strangling her but he was never charged. The police testimony that was given to obtain Curry's recent arrest warrant was only released earlier this year. Curry was first named as a suspect when Wilkinson's daughter found the nurse dead in her home in on July 29, 1986 when she failed to show up for her shift at the local hospital. Authorities declined to press charges against him because they said they didn't have enough evidence. Bangor Police Detective Sergeant Kyle Gorham told the court in March that Curry had actually confessed to a cellmate, confessed in interviews with police and even wrote a letter to a detective admitting his involvement between 1986 and 1989. Curry was first named as a suspect when Wilda Wilkinson's daughter found the nurse dead in her home in on July 29, 1986 when she failed to show up for her shift at the local hospital Curry was questioned early on in the murder investigation and was arrested on an unrelated charge. While he was detained on the unrelated charge, Curry allegedly told his cellmate that he had killed Wilkinson. The cellmate contacted now-retired Bagor Police Lt. Tim Wydick to report Curry's alleged confession. He gave police a handwritten note dated December 28, 1986 in which Curry had allegedly confessed. In a subsequent interviews with police, Curry allegedly confessed twice to killing the victim. Curry allegedly confessed again in December 1989 after he was arrested for beating his roommate nearly to death. Wydick received an anonymous letter a day later stating: 'Almost 41 months have passed, 1,233 days since that fatal hot and humid July night'. It was the exact time since Wilkinson was murdered. The letter also included details about the crime, including that Wilkinson was found without her underwear. Detectives later found that Curry's fingerprints were allegedly found on the letter. A state police investigator testified that Curry had confessed four times in the late 1980s to breaking into Wilkinson's home and strangling her but he was never charged Curry served a 20 year prison sentence for beating his roommate after calling the operator and allegedly identifying himself as the Night Stalker. He was released in 2017. Authorities reopened the cold case investigation last year and started monitoring Curry's Facebook after he was released. According to court documents, Curry posted in June last year: 'I am no angel. If I get p***ed I kill' and 'I have never killed anyone who did not who didn't deserve it.' The posts have since been deleted. Detectives exhumed Wilkinson's body in October and performed an autopsy before Curry was in California and charged with murder. Wydick, the retired detective, told WOOD-TV that he had handed over everything to the prosecutor at the time but no arrest warrant was ever issued. 'A lot of people didn't believe (his confession) at the time,' Wydick said. 'People thought he was trying to get attention.' Wydick said he believed Curry had given a more detailed confession recently that tied him to the crime. Chris Dawson (outside court today) was arrested on the Gold Coast in December and extradited to NSW, where he was charged with murdering his wife The journalist behind the internationally popular podcast The Teacher's Pet, about the disappearance of Sydney woman Lynette Dawson, may have 'shredded' material that could be significant to the case, a court has been told. Former rugby league player and teacher Chris Dawson, 70, has been charged with murdering Ms Dawson in 1982 on Sydney's northern beaches. Dawson's lawyer, Greg Walsh, took aim at News Corp Australia journalist Hedley Thomas on Thursday for interviewing witnesses relevant to an ongoing police investigation. Mr Walsh told Sydney's Downing Centre Local Court that Thomas hadn't disclosed all relevant material to investigators and may have 'shredded' some. 'This material is vitally important to the defence,' the lawyer told chief magistrate Graeme Henson. Mr Walsh indicated he'd lodge an application to have Thomas give evidence at Dawson's committal hearing. Prosecutors told the court they'd want to cross-examine Thomas if he did appear. If NSW Police can't obtain and hand over the material, Mr Walsh said, he may issue subpoenas to Thomas. Dawson, who's on bail after being charged in December, travelled from Queensland to be in court on Thursday as his lawyer requested a variation to his police reporting conditions. He sat silently in the back row next to his brother Peter. The exact nature of what material may have been destroyed is unclear but the court heard it could include 'master tapes' of interviews with witnesses. Lynette Dawson's disappearance in 1982 was the subject of highly popular investigative podcast series The Teacher's Pet before her former husband was charged The fact material may have been shredded emerged, according to Mr Walsh, when Thomas appeared at a public event in Brisbane in 2017. The journalist fielded questions from an audience and stated that part of episode seven of his podcast needed to be 'shredded' because someone could 'go to jail if it airs', Dawson's lawyer told the court. Outside court, Mr Walsh said he'd be prepared to fight 'a significant argument' to show Thomas had waived his privilege to protect his sources. Dawson was arrested on the Gold Coast in December and extradited to NSW where he was charged with murdering his wife. Ms Dawson was 33 when she went missing in early 1982 leaving behind two young daughters. The matter is expected back before the same court on June 20. Thomas has been contacted for comment. A black man who filmed himself getting arrested during a traffic stop after he refused to give police officers his name has reached a $60,000 settlement with the city of Bakersfield, California. Robert Mitchell, 25, was riding in a car with three other friends - all of whom are black - who had just left a convenience store in their hometown of Bakersfield on March 17, 2017. Officers on duty that night pulled the car over claiming that an air freshener was hanging from the rear view mirror, according to the American Civil Liberties Union. Mitchell used his cell phone to record after officers demanded to know the names of the people in the car. Robert Mitchell, 25, filmed himself with a cell phone during a traffic stop in March 2017. He was arrested after he refused to give his name to police officers in Bakersfield, California Citing the Fourth and Fifth Amendments of the Constitution, Mitchell refused to provide his name. The Fourth Amendment prohibits law enforcement from unreasonable searches and seizures unless there is probably cause a crime has been committed. The Fifth Amendment offers protections against self-incrimination and unlawful prosecution. Police accused Mitchell of hindering an investigation and placed him handcuffs. Officers placed him into the back of a squad car and took him to jail, where he spent 12 hours despite not being charged with a crime. Mitchell told NBC News he asserted his constitutional rights because Ive had past incidents where Ive been arrested and it was unlawful and I didnt know my rights. He said that the police officers couldnt articulate the reasons that he and his friends were being pulled over. The officers then told Mitchell and his friends that they were being cited for having an air freshener dangling from the rear view mirror. A number of states have laws on the books against hanging air fresheners, fuzzy dice, or other ornaments dangling from the rear view mirror. But police in California are given discretion to enforce the law if they determine that there is no reasonable danger in each specific case. Were pulled over on this lovely day, Mitchell says in the cellphone video recorded during the 2017 arrest. When police ask the passengers in the car for IDs, Mitchell responds: Im right here, I dont give names. When officers demanded to know Mitchell's name, he replied: I invoke my Fourth and Fifth Amendment rights I invoke my Fourth and Fifth Amendment rights. When police continue to question him, Mitchell says: I dont have to give a name [because] Im not suspected of committing a crime. An officer replies: The law states that you have to give your name. It doesnt, Mitchell says. Its my rights. Whenever a law enforcement officer stops a vehicle, they can identify everybody inside the car, an officer says. The ACLU says that only the driver is required to show license and registration to a police officer if he or she is pulled over. A passenger in the car, however, is legally not required to show identification. In the video, Mitchell asks: What crime am I suspected of committing? One of Mitchells friends appears to be encouraging him to cooperate, but Mitchell responds: I do not have to. That is my right. And if they did try to take me in, it would be a violation of my constitutional rights. The footage shot by Mitchell shows him getting out of the car, placing his cell phone on the roof of the car, and being detained. The ACLU says that police cannot extend a traffic stop for additional questioning unless they reasonably suspect a person of some other crime. Police accused Mitchell of hindering an investigation and placed him handcuffs. Officers placed him into the back of a squad car and took him to jail, where he spent 12 hours despite not being charged with a crime In January 2018, the ACLU filed a lawsuit against the City of Bakersfield and the police officers. Since the city agreed to pay a $60,000 settlement, the ACLU has formally dropped the suit. You have to respect the law and follow up and stand up for your rights, Mitchell said. If you just let things go on and if you see something going on in the community thats wrong that officers are doing, you should seek help. A Pennsylvania principal will no longer say 'God Bless America' to his school while leading students in the Pledge of Allegiance after a parent complained. Every day, Peter Brigg has recited the Pledge of Allegiance to the students of Sabold Elementary School over the loudspeaker. And, for several years, he has always ended with 'God Bless America'. His students were not obligated to repeat it, but were invited to do so if they wanted to. But that will change after a parent complained to the national non-profit Freedom From Religion Foundation, whose attorney then contacted the district. The principal at Sabold Elementary School in Springfield, Pennsylvania can no longer say 'God Bless America' after reciting the Pledge of Allegiance to students over the loudspeaker It claimed that the Springfield school had violated the US Constitution's prohibition of government sponsorship of religious messages in the First Amendment. The foundation also argued that elementary school children 'don't need to be coerced into affirming God's name every morning'. Springfield School District consulted its lawyer and decided to cease the practice. A parent complained to the national non-profit Freedom From Religion Foundation, whose attorney then contacted the district. This now appears on the school's website It said students are still allowed to say 'God Bless America' after the pledge on their own. 'To be clear, the district has not altered the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance and has not prohibited students from deciding on their own, as their own form of self-expression, whether or not to state the words, 'God Bless America' (or any other appropriate form of self-expression) upon completing the Pledge of Allegiance,' the district said in a statement obtained by PhillyVoice. 'We understand that this is an important topic for many of our constituents. However, please understand that the district does not make the law. We follow it.' Some residents, including Theresa Polegato, were upset by the decision. Students are still allowed to say 'God Bless America' after the pledge on their own at the school (file photo) 'We're losing a lot of our rights too. People who believe in God,' she told 6ABC. But Lirisa Schreiber, whose daughter goes to the school, believes it's the 'best move'. 'There are people that are upset by it and there are people who don't believe in God,' she said. The Freedom from Religion Foundation said it was pleased by the district's decision. Drivers have blamed a 'dangerous' M4 off-ramp - the final eastbound exit before tolls kick in - for the horror car crash that killed an Irish tradesman. It comes as New South Wales police hunt for a mystery car that left the scene of the crash following the accident about 5.50am on Thursday. The man, 36, died at the scene after his car was hit by a truck carrying beer kegs on an M4 off-ramp at Mays Hill, in Sydney's west, about 5.50am on Thursday. Motorists fumed that 'the exit is so dangerous'. It is the final eastbound lane before M4 tolls Police are hunting for a motorist who 'left the scene' of horror eight-car crash which killed an Irish tradesman Harrowing images from the scene in the aftermath of the fatal crash showed cars crumpled 'That exit is so dangerous. So many signs warning to slow down but idiots don't and now someone has to lose a life,' an outraged motorist wrote on Facebook. Police believe 11 vehicles were involved in the early morning crash but only 10 hung around. Investigators have released a statement urging the driver to come forward as they believe he or she find could help clarify the circumstances of the fatal crash. Crash Investigation Unit Commander, Inspector Katie Orr said: 'We want to speak with this driver to find what they know about the events leading up to the crash.' 'We also want to speak with any drivers who may have witnessed the crash and left the area or have relevant dash-cam footage.' Police are not suggesting the unknown driver caused the crash. The accident occurred at the Church Street off-ramp, the last eastbound exit before the M4 tolls begin. The Parramatta to Homebush toll was introduced in 2017 and the exit has become flooded with motorists trying to avoid the extra cost by veering off the motorway. A traffic barrier was introduced in July 2018, between the ramp and through lanes on the M4, to 'prevent drivers attempting to merge at high speed'. 'This work will create a single lane exit to Church Street, to help improve the safety for motorists approaching and using this off ramp, improve traffic flow and reduce traffic queues,' Roads and Maritime Services (RMS) said at the time. Despite attempts to clean up the exit, members of the public have slammed the dangerous accident following Thursday's fatal accident. The accident occurred at the Church Street off-ramp, the last eastbound exit before distance-based tolls apply 'How many more lives are going to be lost until they fix the exit for Church Street,' one person said on Facebook. 'The only clarification leading to this accident is the M4 toll,' another said. The Church Street exit is only worse during peak hour, according to the motorists. 'That off ramp is dreadful at peak hour. Something needs to be done by RMS to rectify the traffic pilling up way back down the M4. RIP young man,' one person wrote. Many agreed the traffic chaos of the off-ramp in peak-hour encouraged motorists to 'cut the queue'. 'Looks like someone tried to cut the queue, like they always do,' another wrote. 'They need to fix that off ramp as people are always cutting in and accidents always happen.' The Parramatta to Homebush toll was introduced in 2017 and the exit became flooded with motorists trying to avoid the extra cost by veering off the motorway One person wrote that closing the Church Street exit would be a 'better solution'. According to the RMS, tolls between Parramatta and Homebush cost $1.77 to $4.56 for cars and motorbikes, or between $5.30 and $13.67 for heavy vehicles. The M4 west of Parramatta is free to use and makes up more than 80 per cent of the motorway. The crash caused huge delays at peak hour with cars backed up 15 kilometres - as commuters were urged to get the train instead of drive Five people were treated in hospital for various injuries and all drivers were required to undergo mandatory testing. The crash caused huge delays at peak hour with cars backed up 15 kilometres - as commuters were urged to get the train instead of drive. The Transport Management Centre was urging motorists to 'avoid the M4 at all costs'. Traffic was diverted onto the Great Western High around the crash site and the fatal accident caused traffic disruptions for more than five hours. All citybound lanes have now re-opened. Australia's property dead zones which have been deemed the riskiest for home loans have been revealed as banks crack down on lending criteria. The 'black list' of areas where location is deemed more of a liability to those applying for home loans was revealed by Digital Finance Analytics (DFA) this week. Location is just one factor banks are increasingly looking at when assessing new home loans, and some areas were found to be a 'higher risk', ABC News reported. Paddington and Milton (pictured), which share the postcode 4064, were Brisbane's worst areas for those looking to obtain finance to pay for their homes, with a score of 24.4 The crackdown comes in the wake of the Banking Royal Commission, where Commissioner Kenneth Hayne gave a scathing review of the nation's banks. The data for the list was collected from criteria such as unsuccessful home loan applications, and recorded areas where finance was harder to obtain. According to the data, Perth topped the charts as being the riskiest capital city for home loans, with a vast majority of regional suburbs also being blacklisted. The riskiest suburbs in the country are Newdegate (6355), Bodallin (6424) and Pithara (6608) - all of which are located in regional WA and scored 46.1. Momentum Wealth team leader of finance Caylum Merrick said it hasn't been this difficult to borrow money for some time. 'It's a bit of a perfect storm with the Banking Royal Commission, that's provided a whole other raft of challenges for borrowers regarding serviceability,' he said. 'The big thing is the way the banks are assessing loans at the moment is a lot different to what it was three to four years ago.' The data also showed Brisbane and Adelaide closely follow Perth in terms of risk for borrowers, as both major cities have shown a recent decrease in property growth. Paddington and Milton, which share the postcode 4064, were Brisbane's worst areas for those looking to obtain finance to pay for their homes, with a score of 24.4. Glen Osmond, Glenunga, Mount Osmond, Myrtle Bank, St Georges, and Urrbrae, which share postcode 5064, were Adelaide's riskiest suburbs with a score of 29.2. Likewise, Stepney, College Park, Saint Peters, Evandale, Hackney, Maylands, which share the postcode 5069, had an average risk sore of 29.2. Sydney and Melbourne, which has previously led the property market, also saw an increase in risky suburbs due to the downturn in housing market growth. Newport, in Sydney's northern beaches, was found to be the suburb which banks deem to have greatest risk for lenders, with a score of 24.2. Evandale (pictured) is one of several suburbs in Adelaide that has been blacklisted for its high risk score of 29.2. Similarly in Victoria, 3782, 3796, 3977, 3978 and 3980, which covers a range of suburbs, including Clyde, Cardinia and Cranbourne had the highest risk of 22.1. While Hobart has shown property growth in recent years, the latest figures from CoreLogic and Real Estate Institute of Tasmania revealed the city's boom in over. Hobart's riskiest suburbs were found to be Collinsvale and Glenlusk, which share the postcode 7012, and have an average risk score of 23.1. In the Australian Capital Territory, the riskiest postcode was 2600, which includes Yarralumla, Capital Hill, Parkes, Russell, Canberra, Campbell, Deakin, and Barton. The average risk score for suburbs that fall under the 2600 postcode was 11.5. Singapore has passed a controversial 'fake news' law that has been criticised by rights groups, tech firms and journalists as a threat to free speech. The Protection from Online Falsehoods and Manipulation Bill will allow the government to punish anyone publishing information that it deems to be fake. Ministers will be able to force tech companies to publish warning notices on content or remove it completely, while penalties for individuals range from a maximum fine of 1million Singapore dollars (560,000) to 10 years in jail. Singapore lawmakers have passed a new law banning anything they deem to be fake news, and allowing them to force companies to remove content (file image) Politicians say the new legislation is essential to protect people from being misled, but campaigners say it gives ministers too much power to censor information. Phil Robertson, deputy Asia director at Human Rights Watch said the new law was a 'disaster for online expression by ordinary Singaporeans, and a hammer blow against the independence of many online news portals.' He told The Guardian: 'Singapores leaders have crafted a law that will have a chilling affect on internet freedom throughout south-east Asia, and likely start a new set of information wars as they try to impose their narrow version of "truth" on the wider world.' Google warned that the legislation will also hurt Singapore's ambition to be a technological hub in the region. 'We remain concerned that this law will hurt innovation and the growth of the digital information ecosystem,' the company said in response to a query from Reuters. 'How the law is implemented matters, and we are committed to working with policymakers on this process.' Facebook's Asia-Pacific vice-president of public policy, Simon Milner, added: 'We remain concerned with aspects of the new law which grant broad powers to the Singapore executive branch to compel us to remove content they deem to be false and to push a government notification to users.' Facebook, Google and rights groups have warned that the law could have a 'chilling effect' on internet freedom and gives ministers too much power (file image) Hitting back against critics, Law Minister K. Shanmugam said: 'Free speech should not be affected by this bill. We are talking here about falsehoods. 'We are talking about bots... trolls... fake accounts and so on. 'The working of a democratic society depends on the members of that society being informed and not misinformed.' Milner said Facebook hoped that the ministry's reassuring statements led to a 'proportionate and measured approach in practice'. Facebook and Singapore clashed late last year when the company refused to remove a post of an online article about the city-state's banks and Malaysia's scandal-linked 1MDB state fund, that the government said was 'false and malicious.' A running feud between Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong and his brother and sister over the will of their late father, Singapore's first prime minister Lee Kuan Yew, has also played out over Facebook since it first erupted in public in 2017. The prime minister's siblings have used the social media platform to give their side of a row that disturbed the normally calm politics of a country that has been led by the same party since its independence in 1965. Activists are concerned that the law could give the government power to decide if material posted online is true or false. 'Singapore's leaders have crafted a law that will have a chilling affect on internet freedom throughout Southeast Asia,' Phil Robertson, deputy Asia director of Human Rights Watch, said in a statement. '(The law will) likely start a new set of information wars as they try to impose their narrow version of 'truth' on the wider world.' A teenage undocumented minor from Guatemala, who died while under custody of United States immigration officials, called his mother from a hideout in Mexico complaining he not feeling well. Juan de Leon Gutierrez, 16, passed away on April 30 after officials at a Texas youth detention facility noticed he was sick. He is the third Guatemalan child to die in custody of U.S. immigration since December. Transito Gutierrez Oloroso, 46, said this week that her son, one of seven, had never had any serious illnesses beyond colds or an occasional cough, which were treated 'with remedies from the land, the only thing we have.' Juan de Leon Gutierrez died on April 30, 2019, after officials at a South Texas youth detention facility noticed he was sick, becoming the third Guatemalan child to die in U.S. custody since December He left Guatemala on April 4 and later called his mother and said he was at a warehouse in Mexico, hidden by a human smuggler who had been paid to take the teenager into the United States. 'He told me he had something of a headache, perhaps because he was hungry and had not been able to sleep,' Gutierrez Oloroso said. She said he told her he hadn't eaten anything or had water that day. She doesn't remember what date the conversation occurred. 'The last time we talked he told me he hoped God would help us with salt or corn, or perhaps beans for us,' she said. The teenage boy was from Camotan, one of the poorest, most arid parts of Guatemala in what's known as the dry corridor, where there has been a prolonged drought for nearly two years. According to Guatemala's foreign ministry, the teenager entered the U.S. near El Paso on April 19 and moved to a shelter in Brownsville the next day. Transito Gutierrez Oloroso (pictured), mother of the 16-year-old boy that died in custody of U.S. immigration officials, said this week that her son had never had any serious illnesses aside from colds or a cough Tanerjo De Leon said his son, Juan de Leon Gutierrez, had plans of reuniting with his older brother that had been living in the United States An official who was not authorized to disclose information about the case said Juan was taken to Casa Padre, a facility operated by the Texas nonprofit Southwest Key that holds up to 1,400 people in a converted Walmart. U.S. Health and Human Services said in a statement last week that the teenager became 'noticeably ill' on the morning of April 21, with symptoms that included fever, chills, and a headache. He was taken to a hospital emergency department that morning and released. When the teen's health did not improve, de Leon Gutierrez was taken by ambulance to another hospital emergency room. He was transferred later that day to Driscoll Children's Hospital in Corpus Christi, roughly 160 miles from Brownsville. De Leon Gutierrez died at the hospital on April 30 after receiving treatment in the intensive care unit. According to Guatemalan newspaper Prensa Libre, his 65-year-old distraught father said de Leon Gutierrez had hopes of reuniting with his older brother who was living in the United States. 'Something happened to him on the way,' Tanerjo De Leon said. 'We still do not understand what happened to him and how his health worsened so quickly. We ask that the case be clarified because he was a nice boy.' The death of de Leon Gutierrez has raised questions over the United States government's ability to care for the sure of migrant families and children crossing the border in recent months. The two earlier deaths - seven-year-old Jackeline Caal Maquin and eight-year-old Felipe Gomez-Alonzo - had already prompted border authorities to change practices to ensure that sick immigrants were getting the proper medical care. Autopsies on both found that they each had bacterial infections. Jackeline Caal Maquin, a 7-year-old girl from Guatemala, died on December 8 of a bacterial infection while she was under custody of the U.S. Border Patrol Felipe Gomez-Alonzo, also from Guatemala, died of the flu and a bacterial infection while in the custody of U.S. Border Patrol on Christmas Eve Almost a week after De Leon Gutierrez's death, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has not said why he was first taken to the hospital and released, only to return one day later. Evelyn Stauffer, an HHS spokeswoman, declined to provide more information Wednesday. DailyMail also reached out to the HHS for additional comment. De Leon Gutierrez had a rare condition known as Pott's puffy tumor, according to the Nueces County medical examiner in Corpus Christi, citing information from a children's hospital in Corpus Christi, where he was in intensive care for several days before his death. Despite the name, the condition is not the same as a cancerous tumor. The name refers to the swelling that occurs on a patient's forehead caused by an infection in the frontal bone. The condition is rare, and while usually treatable with antibiotics, it can require surgery. Transito goes through the belongings of her late son, Juan, who died while under custody of U.S. immigration officials after he was apprehended from illegally crossing the southern border Juan lived in this humble home in Camotan, one of the poorest, most arid parts of Guatemala Two pediatricians told The Associated Press that the condition is often caused by severe sinus infection, which can lead to bacteria building up in a person's head and spreading. An unchecked head injury can also lead to bacteria spreading. Headaches are a common symptom as well as vomiting and fever. It's unclear when de Leon Gutierrez first got sick. The Guatemalan foreign ministry said de Leon Gutierrez had undergone surgery to 'stabilize the pressure inside the area of his head' and received 'intensive therapy with 24-hour monitoring.' Dr. Katherine Ratzan Peeler, a pediatrician affiliated with the advocacy group Physicians for Human Rights, called on the U.S. government to release more information about how it handled Juan's case. Releasing the teen at first from the emergency room may not have been a mistake depending on his symptoms at the time and what treatment or follow-up steps he was given, Peeler said. Without further information, it would be impossible to evaluate whether his caregivers missed warning signs. 'That happens even in the best children's hospitals in the country, where we send someone home and they come back the next day and they have something pretty bad where you couldn't just quite tell the first time around,' she said. Guatemalan 16-year-old Juan de Leon Gutierrez (second from left) had a rare condition known as Pott's puffy tumor, according to the Nueces County medical examiner in Corpus Christi, Texas Dr. Mobeen Rathore, a pediatrician based in Jacksonville, Florida, and spokesperson for American Academy of Pediatrics, said Juan's death was further evidence that detaining immigrant children was a health risk under any circumstances. 'If a child was in a home and not in a detention center with 1,400 kids ... there would be more attention paid to this, whether by a parent or a guardian or whoever,' Rathore said. The Guatemalan consulate in McAllen, Texas, said it is preparing to return de Leon Gutierrez's body to his home. An official at the consulate said the Guatemalan government would cover all funeral costs involved. Gutierrez Oloroso said her family had no money, not even to take the bus to the capital of Guatemala City where an airplane carrying his body will likely arrive. Mysterious roadside symbols found in a quiet suburb have sparked fears the neighbourhood is being targeted by criminals. One symbol found in the Mooroobool, a suburb of Cairns, Queensland, consists of a red circle with several lines drawn through it. A concerned resident posted a photo of the symbol on Facebook this week and warned they could be used by burglars or dog thieves to mark targets. One symbol found in the Cairns suburb of Mooroobool in Queensland consists of a red circle with several lines drawn through them In the woman's post, which has since been deleted, she warns residents their neighbourhood could be the target of criminal activities. 'Over the last two days, I have noticed these markings on the gutters outside of a few houses on my walking route,' the woman wrote, Yahoo News reported. 'I'm not sure what they are but I thought they may be markings made by thieves.' She advised everyone to check their property for odd markings and to keep their 'fur babies safe just in case.' The woman posted the symbol on Facebook this week and warned residents these could be used by burglars or dog thieves to target properties (Mooroobool pictured) Commenters speculated about the origins of the symbols with some theorising they could have been made by the council, an energy company, or Queensland Transport and Main Roads. Cairns regional council, Ergon Energy and Queensland Transport and Main Roads all confirmed they were not responsible for the symbols. Chalk circles drawn on walls have been used by burglars to communicate with each other and provide information about a specific house, the Sydney Morning Herald reported. These symbols identify whether a house is alarmed, has lots of expensive items, a vulnerable occupant, or is too risky to burgle. Advertisement Donald Trump has once again falsely claimed he has given $91billion in disaster aid to Puerto Rico, even trying to use a bar chart as evidence. Trump pulled out the chart and said Puerto Ricans should be 'grateful' for his help as he spoke at a campaign rally in Panama City Beach, Florida on Wednesday night. The president was promising Floridians that he would give the state $448million in recovery funds for last year's Hurricane Michael when he suddenly brought up Puerto Rico. 'FEMA did a tremendous job here and elsewhere, by the way,' he said. 'They had this, they had Texas, they had Puerto Rico. Puerto Rico got $91billion. I understand they don't like me. It's the most money we've given to anybody.' Scroll down for video Donald Trump has once again falsely claimed he has given $91billion in disaster aid to Puerto Rico, even trying to use a bar chart as evidence 'We've never given $91billion to a state. We gave it to Puerto Rico,' he continued. 'In fact, I brought a chart. Would you like to see a chart? Very haphazardly, I just happen to have it with me.' Trump then pulled a A4-sized piece of paper out of his suit jacket, joking he didn't put the chart on a big board because 'that costs the government too much money'. 'But you can all see that!' he exclaimed, holding up the small piece of paper. 'That's Puerto Rico,' he said, pointing at the side of the chart with the tallest bar graph. 'They don't like me,' he repeated. 'And what the Democrats want to do, they want to give more and more and I say, "You know what? I have a great relationship with the people of Puerto Rico, but it hasn't been fair.' Trump pulled a standard-sized piece of paper out of his suit jacket, joking he didn't put the chart on a big board because 'that costs the government too much money' 'But you're getting your money one way or another and we're not going to let anybody hold it up,' Trump told his Floridian fans. 'And I think that the people of Puerto Rico are very grateful to Donald Trump for what we've done for them.' Nearly 3,000 people were killed when Hurricane Maria decimated Puerto Rico in 2017. Congress has so far only distributed around $11billion in aid to Puerto Rico. The remains of homes that were heavily damaged by Hurricane Michael remain near the beach in Mexico Beach, Florida Foundations remain of many homes destroyed by the devastating hurricane, the sites are pictured on May 09, 2019 The $50billion in future disaster disbursements is only speculative and it could be decades before the island sees the funds, which would still require future appropriations by Congress. Plus, $91billion is not even the largest figure ever provided to a state. The US government spent more than $120billion on Hurricane Katrina relief, and the bulk of those funds went to Louisiana. Trump also raised eyebrows when he laughed alongside a supporter who screamed 'Shoot them!' as he talked about immigrants at the border. The president first brought up the very first speech he gave after announcing his presidential run, in which he declared that Mexicans coming to the US were 'rapists'. Trump repeatedly claimed he gave Puerto Rico $91billion in disaster relief. The state has actually only received $11billion from Congress Trump also raised eyebrows when he laughed alongside a supporter who screamed 'Shoot them!' as he talked about immigrants at the US-Mexico border 'I talked about what's happening. I mention the word rape,' he told the crowd. 'The fake news media, they went after me. Guess what? That speech was so mild compared to what's actually happening.' Trump retold his story of women being smuggled across the border 'tied up, with tape over their mouths'. The president then noted that he doesn't let border control 'use weapons' against immigrants even though 'other countries do'. Seven months after the category five hurricane made landfall near the small community, the town is still littered with heavily damaged and destroyed homes and businesses According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), $1.1 billion has been spent on Hurricane Michael-related response and recovery efforts in the state 'But how do you stop these people?' Trump asked as his fans began to shout 'Build the wall'. 'Shoot them!' one fan replies, eliciting laughs from both Trump and the crowd. 'That's only in the panhandle can you get away with that statement,' he quipped. 'Only in the panhandle.' A Liberal candidate who linked same-sex marriage to paedophilia will soon have his face plastered on advertisements on gay dating app Grindr. The Labor party will run banner ads featuring Gurpal Singh starting Friday. It's part of a political campaign to bring attention to the candidate for the Scullin seat in north Melbourne. Mr Singh made his controversial remarks back in October 2017 during the marriage equality debate, the ABC reported. Speaking on SBS Radio, Singh suggested gay and lesbian parents who raised children also placed them at risk of sexual abuse. 'I think it is also an issue of paedophilia,' Mr Singh said at the time. 'In these situations the occurrence can be high.' The Labor party will post a photo of Gurpal Singh (pictured) starting Friday, as part of a social media campaign to bring attention to the candidate for the Scullin seat in north Melbourne A photo of Mr Singh will be accompanied with a snapshot of a Sydney Morning Herald article that brought the conversation to back to light last month (pictured, gay dating app Grindr) The picture of Mr Singh will be accompanied with a snapshot of a Sydney Morning Herald article which brought the conversation back into the spotlight last month. Mr Singh is quoted calling same-sex marriage unnatural: 'Here we are doing something that is against nature. 'How do you perceive that situation and what is the overall impact? I think there is also an issue of paedophilia.' The advertisement will be used as a political campaign to target voters in inner-Melbourne seats where there was strong support for same-sex marriage during the plebiscite. Mr Singh has since released a brief statement apologising over the comments. 'I apologise unreservedly for those comments,' he said in a statement. 'They were wrong and I am sorry.' Prime Minister Scott Morrison said Wednesday that Mr Singh's preselection was secure despite his past comments. Mr Singh's colleagues have also publicly defended him, including the likes of treasurer Josh Frydenberg. 'We don't accept those comments and again, as I said, he has apologised,' he said. Mr Singh's colleagues have also publicly defended him, including the likes of treasurer Josh Frydenberg (pictured) Mr Singh was born in Punjab, India and while Katie Allen, a Liberal candidate for the seat of Higgins, said his comments were unacceptable, his background and beliefs had to be taken into account. 'He comes from a background where those sorts of views are more widely held with regards to the marriage equality debate.' Labor member Andrew Giles currently holds the Scullin seat, and has called out Mr Singh on his comments. 'Not only have the Prime Minister and Mr Frydenberg not taken action regarding his [Mr Singh's] candidacy, they haven't even said sorry to LGBTI Australians. Standards,' Mr Giles said. Mr Singh will challenge Mr Giles for the north Melbourne electorate in the upcoming Federal Election. The campaign against Mr Singh will come after a number of candidates from both parties have been dumped or resigned over controversial comments. Liberal candidate Jessica Whelan stepped down over a series of Facebook posts made in her name, which advocated for Muslim women to be sold into slavery. Labor candidate Luke Creasey resigned from his party after it emerged he once joked on Facebook about his friends 'roughly taking' a woman's virginity. Liberal candidate Jessica Whelan (pictured) stepped down over a series of Facebook posts made in her name, which advocated for Muslim women to be sold into slavery Snowtown serial killer Robert Joe Wagner has been denied a non-parole period, after a judge ruled he is a 'hardened killer' who has shown no remorse for his crimes. Wagner represented himself before the South Australian Supreme Court in March as he argued that having a possible release date would assist with his mental wellbeing. Justice Greg Parker on Thursday dismissed the application in a hearing lasting about 10 seconds. Snowtown serial killer Robert Joe Wagner (pictured in handcuffs) is set to learn if he'll ever be released from jail The serial killings were exposed in 1999 when police found eight dismembered bodies in acid-filled barrels in the vault of a disused bank at Snowtown, South Australia In his ruling, Justice Parker said the bodies-in-the-barrels murders were 'the worst crimes ever to be detected in South Australia'. Since 1999, the 47-year-old has been serving 10 life sentences over the infamous 'bodies-in-the-barrels' killing spree. The ringleader in the murders, John Justin Bunting, is similarly serving life without parole. The serial killings were exposed in 1999 when police found eight dismembered bodies in acid-filled barrels in the vault of a disused bank at Snowtown, north of Adelaide. Wagner is serving ten consecutive life sentences without parole for his role in the 1999 murders (pictured are three of his victims) Two more bodies were found buried in a backyard at suburban Salisbury North while detectives later linked two further deaths to Bunting and Wagner. After a trial lasting 170 days, Bunting was found guilty of 11 murders with Wagner jailed over 10 of the deaths. Two other men, Mark Ray Haydon and James Spyridon Vlassakis, are also behind bars over the killings; Vlassakis after pleading guilty to four murders and Haydon for helping Wagner and Bunting dispose of the bodies. An Australian charity shop has been raking in extra cash after using actor Keanu Reeves to promote their products. The Salvation Army store in Croydon, Melbourne, has displayed photos of the popular celebrity in their second-hand photo frames. The clever marketing trick has helped create extra business, an employee from the op shop told 7News. The Salvation Army store in Croydon, Melbourne, have displayed photos of Keanu Reeves in their second-hand photo frames (pictured) Images of the frames went viral on social media after the post was shared to Reddit. 'Finally, an excuse to have many pictures of Keanu in my house. I'll simply tell people that I haven't gotten around to removing the display pictures yet,' one user said. Another commented: 'If that doesn't sell those frames I don't know what will.' 'This is the kind of little thing that brings a ray of sunshine into your day. Thank you for sharing it,' one person said. This sale tactic is similar to one used by an op shop in 2018, where images of Jeff Goldbulm were displayed in photo frames. A Detroit mother who was allegedly shot and killed by her adoptive son said to doctors she feared she was raising the next serial killer just months before her death, grieving family members have revealed. Pauline Randol, 51, was found dead early Monday morning at her home on Fawn River Township having suffered a fatal gun-shot wound. The gunman responsible, police say, was her nine-year-old son who she adopted from Indiana three years ago. Investigators believe the boy, who hasnt been named because of his age, opened fire on Pauline with a rifle he found inside the home. He now faces murder and firearm charges, though its unclear whether hell be prosecuted as an adult or juvenile. Pauline Randol, 51, was found dead early Monday morning at her home on Fawn River Township having suffered a fatal gun-shot wound The child allegedly shot his mother at their home in Michigan on Monday morning Pauline and the boy were scheduled to meet with a mental health professional the day after she was found dead, as family members say she was growing increasingly concerned about the boys mental state. Paulines daughter, 23-year-old Reagan Martin, said the boys mother was drug addict and he had a number of mental scars from his childhood. Another of her daughters, Harley Martin, revealed that the 51-year-old had told her doctor one time she was so scared she was raising the next serial killer. Harley, however, was adamant that the boy was not a bad kid and said this was not something he would have just done to be spiteful, to be mean. He loved his mom. I don't want people to think he did not love his mom, she told 24 Hour News 8. He had lost of mental health issues that were not being helped. He started on [new] medication last week. Who knows how that reacted? WWMT-TV reports that Congress Elementary School in Sturgis contacted the mother of a girl who the juvenile had a chilling message for last year Harley said her mother was aware of the boys mental health issues and troubled upbringing before she adopted him in February 2016. But she took him in to care for him as her own, Harley told the Detroit Free Press. She had been trying to reach out for help by his family doctor... who blamed her for [these] issues. In court Tuesday, the boy asked where his mother was and Harley said 'he doesn't know what he did'. 'He doesn't understand why he can't come home or anything,' she continued. 'Hes traumatized by what he saw in there. Thats all he told my dad about was seeing that. Its going to mess him up for a really long time because he does not realize what hes done.' A neighbor told WWMT the boy was a second-grader at Congress Elementary School in Sturgis. Another mother from the school told the station that the child had threatened her 8-year-old daughter last year. 'He told her that he wanted to get a knife and stab her and watch her die, and watch her mother cry,' Alecia Pieronski recalled of a conversation between the suspect and her daughter in February 2018. 'My want was to remove him from the school and protect the children. I do feel in my whole heart the teachers and principals did everything they could do.' In a Facebook post Randol cryptically spoke about a child that was 'missing skills' and said she needed 'support and understanding' The circumstances of the killing and details of why the child is considered a suspect have not been released. It's not clear how many times Pauline was shot. Her daughter Reagan added that she believed her mother would still be alive if she had received the psychiatric treatment shed been seeking for her son. She said her mother tried to reach out to various mental health services in St. Joseph County but their familys insurance wouldnt cover the medical costs. Alecia Pieronski said: 'It should never have happened.' She claims the same boy told her eight-year-old daughter 'he wanted to get a knife and stab her and watch her die, and watch her mother cry' in February 2018 She eventually got an appointment where she had to spend money out [of her] pocket, but that was supposed to be for Tuesday, and it was too late, Reagan said. My mother's death lays in the hands of people failing to educate in mental issues and failing to listen when helped is being begged for. Sheriff Bradley Balk says the youth was undergoing a psychiatric evaluation at a state-run juvenile facility on Tuesday. Police were carrying out forensics interviews to determine the child's state of mind. 'Maybe this a wake-up call to other schools when you have that troubled child screaming for help to do something,' Pieronski added. In a Facebook post Randol cryptically spoke about a child that was 'missing skills' and said she needed 'support and understanding'. Sturgis Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Arthur Ebert said in a statement: 'Our community has experienced a tragic event. As a district it is our goal to provide support to our students, staff, and the community. 'We are limited in what we can share due to privacy laws and the sensitive nature of this tragedy. The St. Joseph County Sheriff's Department is leading the investigation regarding this event that occurred outside of school, including the release of information about the investigation.' Though neighbor Christy Miller described Paulines murder as a sad situation', another said they werent surprised to hear the boy had been arrested. 'My wife and I both, when we heard that the woman was shot, we both looked at each other and said "I bet it was him",' Joseph Lancaster told FOX 17 Wednesday. 'The little boy, because I have grandkids. I have one the same age and I've got smaller ones. And he would stand in the tree line over there and point his BB gun at him and shoot at them. 'It's just crazy, scary. You know, he could have shot anybody around here.' Donald Trump raised eyebrows at his campaign rally on Wednesday when he smiled and cracked a joke after a fan yelled that immigrants should be shot at the border. Trump had been talking about immigrants coming to the US-Mexico border when he asked the crowd, 'But how do you stop these people?' As his fans began to shout 'Build the wall!' one supporter yelled 'Shoot them!' Trump turned his head to see the fan, smiling as his supporters burst into laughter. Scroll down for video Donald Trump raised eyebrows at his campaign rally on Wednesday when he smiled and cracked a joke after a fan yelled that immigrants should be shot at the border The president couldn't hold back a smile before joking with the crowd. 'That's only in the panhandle can you get away with that statement,' he quipped. 'Only in the panhandle.' Trump had first brought up the very first speech he gave after announcing his presidential run, in which he declared that Mexicans coming to the US were 'rapists'. 'I talked about what's happening. I mention the word rape,' he told the crowd. 'The fake news media, they went after me. Guess what? That speech was so mild compared to what's actually happening.' Trump then retold his story of women being smuggled across the border 'tied up, with tape over their mouths'. The president then noted that he doesn't let border control 'use weapons' against immigrants even though 'other countries do'. That's when one of his fans yelled their support for shooting down immigrants - many of whom are refugees seeking asylum. Trump also continued to falsely claim that he had given $91billion in disaster aid to Puerto Rico, even bringing out a tiny bar graph chart to illustrate his point. 'We've never given $91billion to a state. We gave it to Puerto Rico,' he continued. 'In fact, I brought a chart. Would you like to see a chart? Very haphazardly, I just happen to have it with me.' Trump also continued to falsely claim that he had given $91billion in disaster aid to Puerto Rico, even bringing out a tiny bar graph chart to illustrate his point Trump then pulled a standard-sized piece of paper out of his suit jacket, joking he didn't put the chart on a big board because 'that costs the government too much money'. 'But you can all see that!' he exclaimed, holding up the small piece of paper. 'That's Puerto Rico,' he said, pointing at the side of the chart with the tallest bar graph. 'They don't like me,' he repeated. 'And what the Democrats want to do, they want to give more and more and I say, "You know what? I have a great relationship with the people of Puerto Rico, but it hasn't been fair.' 'But you're getting your money one way or another and we're not going to let anybody hold it up,' Trump told his Floridian fans. 'And I think that the people of Puerto Rico are very grateful to Donald Trump for what we've done for them.' Nearly 3,000 people were killed when Hurricane Maria decimated Puerto Rico in 2017. Congress has so far only distributed around $11billion in aid to Puerto Rico. The $50billion in future disaster disbursements is only speculative and it could be decades before the island sees the funds, which would still require future appropriations by Congress. Trump also took time during his rally to defend Attorney General Bill Barr, hours after the House Judiciary Committee voted to hold Barr in contempt of Congress. 'After two years, nothing, no collusion. And now the Democrats we have a great attorney general, now the Democrats are saying "We want more,"' Trump told an outdoor rally in Panama City. 'Now they say the Mueller report, we want to start all over again. It is a disgrace.' Trump also took time during his rally to defend Attorney General Bill Barr, hours after the House Judiciary Committee voted to hold Barr in contempt of Congress Speaking after House Judiciary Chairman Jerold Nadler declared a 'constitutional crisis' in the clash over documents and testimony, Trump fused his own defense following the two-year Mueller probe to a call for unity. 'It's time to come together for the people of Panama City, for the people of Florida, for the people of our country it's time to stop this nonsense,' Trump implored. Later in his remarks, Trump went after the 'fake news' media then pivoted to quips about the length of his term in office. 'They are a bunch fakers, fakers,' Trump said. 'You know in six years, they're all going to be out of business, folks,' he said. 'If we want to drive them crazy, I'll say in 10 years they'll go crazy,' Trump said, joking about serving 12 years in office. 'See he is a despot,' Trump said, mocking how he said his comment would be portrayed in the media. A drunken bus passenger boasted about knocking an 82-year-old man out after the senior citizen told the man to stop swearing on the bus, a court has heard. The retiree had told the offender to stop swearing in front of woman and children after he began a profanity laden rant about how he hated the Sunshine Coast. 'Shut your mouth, I don't take that language from you or anybody else in public,' the man said, according to The Sunshine Coast Daily. The court heard that Jeffery Gunn, 37, who had been drinking alcohol out of a mug on the bus then put the man in a bear hug and forced him off the bus. A drunken bus passenger boasted about knocking an 82-year-old man out after the senior citizen told the man to stop swearing on the bus, a court heard In the ensuing scuffle both men fell out of the bus door and the victim received cuts and bruises. The court also hear that a girl with Down syndrome was knocked over and hit her head in the scuffle and, though not seriously injured, was frightened and fled. Police prosecutor Phillip Stephens said when police finally arrived on the scene Gunn told them 'I just knocked the f--- out of that guy'. The senior citizen had at the Mooloolaba Bowls Club when he had caught the bus. Magistrate Maxine Baldwin said she found Gunn's behaviour 'difficult to stomach' and 'absolutely appalling.' 'He looks frail but obviously he is more feisty than others his age,' she said. Lawyer for the defence said his client had completed Year 12 but had an issue with cheap port wine and had consumed four bottles the day before the incident. He pleaded guilty to the serious assault of a person aged over 60 and was sentenced to six months jail. The magistrate said the penalty was harsher than if the assault had been againt a younger person. The term was wholly suspended for three years and he was also ordered to pay $200 compensation. A paramedic has warned the Lime scooter design could be a contributing factor in a spate of recent accidents. The caution comes after a 50-year-old Brisbane man died after falling off his scooter at about 12.20am at South Bank Parklands in south Brisbane on Wednesday. The unidentified man is understood to have suffered a heart attack and 'traumatic head injuries' as a result of the fall. Lime has since confirmed to Daily Mail Australia the electronic scooter the man was riding did not malfunction. But Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS) Clinical Director Tony Hucker suggested a possible flaw with the wheel design could have added to the dangers of riding an e-scooter. Mr Hucker said the smaller sized wheels could be more likely to get stuck in the road, and could therefore be the reason why there has been a recent number of accidents involving scooters. 'They are more prone to catching in divots and holes in the road so there's probably a higher risk, particularly at night,' he said. Lime's APAC Director of Government Affairs, Mitchell Price said the company was 'truly saddened by this news' of the man's death Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS) Clinical Director Tony Hucker (pictured) suggested a possible design flaw could be contributing to the recent spate of accidents 'They're great fun, they're getting used a lot but they come at great risk.' 'We've seen over a two-month period a number of injuries, I think about 80 injuries in two of our bigger hospitals, 12 of those people needed operations. 'We do know that people are getting hurt but if you're safe and careful it can be okay. 'It reminds us that riding electric scooters comes with some risk,' Mr Hucker said. 'They're around, they're everywhere, everyone's riding them and it's important that we should understand you should wear your helmet every time you ride them.' He also urged scooter users to be wary when it came to the speed they were travelling at. Brisbane man Dylan Pires (pictured) suffered horrific facial injuries after the hire Lime scooter he was riding suddenly locked up Lime's APAC Director of Government Affairs, Mitchell Price told Daily Mail Australia the company will assist with any investigation into the death. 'We are truly saddened by this news, and we extend our sincerest thoughts and prayers to the man's family,' Mr Price said. 'We stand by ready to assist the authorities as they look into what happened.' Although the death is the first involving a Lime scooter to occur in Australia, there have previously been a number of accidents involving the scooter brand. Last month Brisbane man Dylan Pires suffered horrific facial injuries after the hire Lime scooter he was riding suddenly locked up. Jordan Madigan (pictured), 26, had his heel ripped open after the Lime scooter he was using to ride to work seized up and threw him off He had been riding to a supermarket during his work break when he was sent flying over the scooter's handlebars and hit the pavement. Mr Pires, who was not wearing a helmet at the time of the accident, woke up in hospital suffering a broken nose, broken cheek, fractured sinus and stitches to his forehead. He also needed to have pins inserted in his cheeks as a result of the incident. At the time a spokesperson for Lime said it had not been confirmed the incident was caused because the scooter wheels locked. In February, Jordan Madigan, 26, had his heel ripped open after the Lime scooter he was using to ride to work seized up and threw him off. The scooter threw him off so suddenly that it whipped around and struck his foot - which was enclosed in sneakers - so hard that it tore the skin right off. Mr Madigan was forced to get stitches after the ordeal and needed antibiotics and crutches for a few days. Advertisement The Duke and Duchess of Sussex proudly showed off their baby son for the first time yesterday during an historic photocall within the grounds of Windsor Castle. Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor made his very first public appearance alongside a thrilled Prince Harry and Meghan inside the majestic St George's Hall, where they posed for a series of heartwarming photographs. The two-day-old infant was lovingly cradled by his adoring father and watched attentively by Meghan, who was herself pictured for the first time in six weeks since withdrawing from public life ahead of the birth. The couple appeared to be beside themselves with joy, giggling and looking into each other's eyes as they spoke, while Harry could not resist sneaking a peek down at his son as he apparently slept peacefully in his arms. Harry and Meghan answered several questions before leaving the hall for a meeting with the Queen, where Her Majesty was pictured smiling broadly as she finally introduced to the infant, her eighth great-grandchild. In a touching image that reflected the increasingly modern and cosmopolitan royal family, the Queen was joined by the new parents, the Duke of Edinburgh and Meghan's mother Doria Ragland as they all looked on lovingly at the latest addition. Baby Sussex (pictured) made his very first public appearance at a photocall alongside a thrilled Prince Harry and Meghan in the grounds of Windsor Castle, where the new family have been holed up since the historic birth on Monday The world has been given its first ever glimpse of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex's newborn son yesterday as his beaming parents finally showed off their 'own little bundle of joy' to millions of royal fans across the globe Sneak peak: Baby Sussex was wrapped in a white blanket and appeared in a white bonnet, keeping whether he has any hair and what colour it is a mystery The couple revealed their plans to present their newborn to the Queen later that day, having bumped into the Duke of Edinburgh shortly before the photocall Little Archie Harrison was introduced to the Queen, the Duke of Edinburgh, and Meghan's mother Doria by his proud parents Meghan, clearly loving her new role as a mother, places a loving hand on the head of her infant son following his birth on Monday Meghan and Harry share a laugh after they were asked who their newborn son takes after the most following his birth on Monday A close up of the adorable infant comes as his new dad Prince Harry joked that he 'already had a bit of facial hair' like his father Harry and Meghan appeared overjoyed as they finally presented their newborn son to the whole world at yesterdays' photocall Baby Sussex was barely visible, but his tiny face peaked out of his white bonnet and blanket as Harry held him in his arms The couple appeared to be beside themselves with joy, giggling and looking into each other's eyes as they spoke, while Harry could not resist sneaking a peek down at his son as he apparently slept Meghan used 'protective and reassuring touches and signs' while Harry cradled the baby throughout The new parents couldn't look any happier as they stare lovingly into each other's eyes during yesterday's historic photocall The loved-up couple waved to the camera before walking off as they prepare to introduce the infant to his great-grandmother, the Queen The two-day-old infant was lovingly cradled by his adoring father as the pair walked off with Meghan stroking the Prince's back in open support Next to a photo of the newborn with The Queen, the Duke of Edinburgh and The Duchess' mother, the caption continued: 'They are so incredibly grateful for the warm wishes and support theyve received from everyone around the world, since welcoming their son two days ago' The charming photographs of the three of them were posted to Instagram with a caption which read: 'Today The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are delighted to share their first public moment as a family' The newest member of the royal family, who was born on Monday, managed to rake in over 1.4million likes on the three photos within one hour of them being posted online Meghan touched her hair repeatedly throughout the photo call, which body language expert Judi James says is proof of her 'protective leadership role' Prince Harry and his wife Meghan looked completely at ease yesterday ahead of their announcement that they had named their son Archie Harrison The young royal sleeps peacefully as his parents Harry and Meghan gush to the world about their pride following his birth Meghan places a loving hand on her newborn son, who was tightly wrapped in a blanket and held throughout the photocall by his father Prince Harry The Duchess looked lovingly at her baby as her husband brought him over to present him to the cameras - and the world Speaking for only a few minutes from inside the majestic St George's Hall at Windsor Castle, a radiant Meghan, who struggled to take her eyes off her beaming husband, said she had the 'two best guys in the world' Prince Harry already appeared well at ease with being a father as he cradled his newborn son in his arms during the photocall Meghan and Harry's baby was born weighing 7lb 3oz at 5.26am on Monday, May 6. It is not yet known exactly where he was born but he was back home with his mother, father and grandmother Doria Ragland within hours of being born Prince Harry, holding his newborn son in his arms, walks towards a pool of reporters and photographers for the first photocall of young Archie Harrison's life The royal couple and new parents smiled as they listened to questions from the press. They said they were looking forward to introducing the baby to the Queen and Prince Philip, after accidentally 'bumping into' the Duke The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are pictured with their baby son in the majestic setting of St George's Hall at Windsor Castle yesterday Body language expert Judi James has said Meghan displayed some level of anxiety, but her loving looks at her son and her husband showed how happy she is to be a mother This photograph of the couple arriving at yesterday's historic photocall was shared on the Sussex's official Instagram page yesterday The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, clearly excited about their first few days as parents, proudly show off their baby son to the world Tightly wrapped in a white blanket, baby Archie looked peaceful as he slept in his father's arms during yesterday's photocall When two becomes three: The couple looked completely besotted with each other as they presented Archie to everyone around the world for the first time yesterday A selection of exclusive photographs taken by Chris Allerton, the Sussex's personal photographer for their wedding, were shared on the couple's Instagram page later in the afternoon Meghan gives a sheepish wave to the waiting cameras as she and her husband Harry present their son Archie to the world In what is bound to be the first of many events in the next few months, Archie stole the show when presented to the world for the first time A smiling Meghan cannot keep her eyes off her husband and new baby as the couple unveil their new 'bundle of joy' yesterday The Duke of Sussex looks lovingly at his wife and the mother of his first child as the pair have a brief chat with reporters The beaming couple look completely besotted with their new son as they arrive at St George's Hall to give the world the first glimpse of Baby Sussex Protective mother: Meghan sought to 'protect and reassure' her baby as her husband cradled him throughout the photo call Meghan clutched onto Harry's arm as her husband cradled the baby in his arms. They spoke to members of the press for just a few minutes but said they were elated to be parents and their son has been a 'dream' so far Meghan places a loving arm around the back of her husband following yesterday's historic photocall, which is boud to be the first of many public appearances the pair make with their newborn in the coming months The couple are pictured arriving at the photocall within Windsor Castle as the world desperately tried to get its first glimpse of the latest royal baby A smiling Meghan gives her newborn son a quick glance before facing media for the first time since she gave birth on Monday Elated: Harry's wide, genuine smile melted the hearts of royal fans across the globe as he was unable to hide his joy Meghan has been praised for her 'natural' make-up and wearing a dress that didn't try to hide her 'mum tum'. Here she touches her forehead as Harry explains what the first few days of parenting have been like Royal fans are desperate to know what colour hair and eyes Baby Sussex has, so they can gage his likeness to Meghan and Harry. The little baby was largely covered up when he appeared for the first time and kept his eyes closed throughout Meghan gave a nervous giggle as Harry gave a small speech to the press. The prince is seen looking lovingly at her in Windsor Peaceful: Asked if he was sleeping well, Meghan said her baby boy has been a 'dream' so far and has a 'calm temperament' Meghan was appearing for the first time in about six weeks and seemed to be coping well following the pregnancy and birth on Monday The reporter who conducted the first interview with the three Sussexes asked Harry and Meghan to tip him forward slightly so viewers could catch a better glimpse of him Look of love: Meghan gazes lovingly at Harry after describing him and her son as her 'two guys' as they spoke to the media Harry and Meghan thanked well-wishers for all their love and support and said it 'means the world' before they turned their backs and walked away, with Meghan lovingly rubbing Harry's shoulder The couple share a joke with the royal rota of press agencies after the world was left waiting for two days to get its first glimpse of the latest royal baby According to body language expert Judi James, Meghan 'rewarded' Harry with a loving pat on the back as they walked away from the cameras inside St George's Hall at Windsor Castle this afternoon Body language expert Judi James explained that while the Duke of Sussex was the one holding their two-day-old son, Meghan gave him 'reassuring touches' throughout. Pictured, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex with their baby son, who was born on Monday morning, during a photocall in St George's Hall at Windsor Castle in Berkshire Proud father Prince Harry cradled his baby boy as he introduced him to the world this afternoon. Judi added that he 'took his duties seriously' Prince Harry looks as though he is bursting with pride as he greets members of the media for yesterday's historic photocall While the couple cooed over their newborn baby, they also gave each other a 'very besotted looking look of love', according to the expert. Pictured, Meghan standing by her 'two guys' With his hands in the air and an infectious grin, a young Afghan boy whirls around a Kabul hospital room on his new prosthetic leg while music blasts from a mobile phone. The boy, five-year-old Ahmad Sayed Rahman, was shot in the leg when he was just eight months old after he was caught in the crossfire between US-backed Afghan troops and the Taliban. He has captured hearts in Afghanistan after a short video of him effortlessly dancing on his new limb was posted on Twitter on Monday - and has already had 1million views. Ahmad and his parents, who are farmworkers, come from Logar province south of Kabul, where fighting between the Taliban and the US-backed Afghan army is frequent. Ahmad Sayed Rahman is filmed dancing on his new prosthetic on Monday. He was caught in the crossfire between Afghan forces and the Taliban when he just a baby and was shot in the leg, which was amputated soon after Ahmad (seen above on Tuesday) first received a prosthetic leg when he was one, and soon learned how to dance. The growing boy has needed a new one almost every year The five-year-old Afghan boy whirls around a Kabul hospital room while music blares from a mobile phone. The footage of him dancing with joy has had more than 1million views since it was posted this week Ahmad and his parents, who are farmworkers, hail from Logar province south of Kabul, where there is frequent fighting between the US-backed Afghan army and the Taliban His mother said he and his sister, Salima, were caught in the crossfire of a battle, and both children were seriously wounded. Salima suffered bullet wounds to her kidney and legs. Ahmad, whose leg was amputated below the knee soon after he was shot, is a long-time patient, his physiotherapist Semeen Sarwari said. He received his first prosthetic when he was one, and soon learned to dance. And because he's growing fast, he has needed a new leg every year or so. This new one is his fourth. How 2018 was Afghanistan's deadliest year The clinic where Ahamad was treated - the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) - has registered almost 178,000 patients with disabilities in Afghanistan, including more than 46,100 amputees, since it began documenting the injuries in 1988. In 2018 alone, 3,804 civilians - including more than 900 children - were killed in Afghanistan, and another 7,000 more were wounded, according to the United Nations. It was the deadliest year yet for civilians in Afghanistan's conflict. Tadamichi Yamamoto, head of the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan, said a 'shocking number' of civilians are still being killed or maimed and called on all parties to do more to safeguard them. Peace talks are ongoing between the US and the Taliban but are moving slowly, adding to the anguish of everyday Afghans who have no idea what the future might hold for their country. Advertisement 'He is always dancing and showing how happy he is to have an artificial leg,' his mother, Rayeesa, told reporters at the Red Cross orthopaedic centre in the Afghan capital on Tuesday. 'I'm so happy for him that he's received this artificial leg and that now he can be independent,' she added, as Ahmad danced to music blasting from a mobile phone. His physiotherapist added: 'He's a child and wants to play. He wants to have a leg so is adapting quickly. 'He doesn't want to sit around inside.' More than one million people in Afghanistan have some form of disability - most of them due to injuries from four decades of war, harking back to the Soviet invasion of 1979. More than 500,000 people had watched the video clip on Twitter within a day of it being posted this week. By Tuesday, he was showing off his skills to reporters in Kabul and was the top story on evening news programmes The video has attracted hundreds of admiring comments, with some people even offering to help. 'This is the smile of victory over all odds of life ...god bless you dude' one Twitter user wrote. 'Extremely amazed by the paradox of happiness & grief in this video!' wrote another. Ahmad's mother, Rayeesa, holds her son's prosthetic. 'He is always dancing and showing how happy he is to have an artificial leg,' she said Ahmad is among the 1million people in Afghanistan who have some form of disability - most of them due to injuries from four decades of war, harking back to the Soviet invasion of 1979 The little boy's physiotherapist said that Ahmad is keen to play and doesn't want to just sit around In 2018 alone, 3,804 civilians - including more than 900 children - were killed in Afghanistan, and another 7,000 more were wounded, according to the UN Ahmad's video was shot by Mulkara Rahimi, another physiotherapist at the Red Cross centre. In her 10 years of professional activity, she has seen many patients like him. 'Because he was so happy about the new prosthesis, I just wanted to save a record of the happiness,' Rahimi said. US is ready for 'all sides' to lay down arms in Afghan war as Taliban rejects 'permanent ceasefire', says Trump's envoy The United States special envoy tasked with forging a peace deal with the Taliban said last Saturday that America stands ready for 'all sides' to lay down arms in the 17-year conflict. Peace envoy Zalmay Khalilzad is leading the latest round of talks with the Taliban in Doha, where the two foes are pursuing a deal that would see the withdrawal of foreign forces from Afghanistan in return for Taliban security guarantees. 'All sides laying down arms is the outcome of any peace process,' Khalilzad tweeted. 'All sides agreeing to reduce violence is a necessary step toward achieving that outcome and the morally responsible choice to make. We stand ready.' Khalilzad's comments come a day after Afghan President Ashraf Ghani said he was prepared to call an 'immediate' and 'permanent' ceasefire - but the Taliban rebuffed the offer. This is the hilarious moment a wave smashes and washes away two tourists who are taking a picture on the shore. Standing on the jagged rocks to the backdrop of Hawaii's tropical seas was meant to provide the 'perfect shot' for these two bikini-clad tourists. And although the waves crash on to the land and threatening to knock them over, they remain by the water's edge determined to get their picture in Kauai's iconic Queen's Bath tidal pool. But their luck finally runs out when a huge surf splashes down on the couple and sweeps them all the way back to the cliff. The two tourists were trying to capture the perfect photo in Hawaii by the water's edge despite the crashing waves Footage has recently emerged online after a backpacker who was also exploring Queen's Bath witnessed the epic wipeout. Their 33-second clip which is taken from the top of a small rock-face shows the two women, wearing bikinis, by the sea. One dark-haired woman is crouching down and training her camera on the second blonde-haired tourist who is perched on top of a rock and staring out to the horizon. At this point, the waves are not breaking far on to the shore and the water is only lapping at the blonde's feet. But as she strikes a different pose and turns back to the camera, the waves begin to grow bigger and someone behind the camera is heard saying 'this one, here we go!' A dark-haired woman is crouching down and training her camera on the second blonde-haired tourist who is perched on top of a rock and staring out to the horizon, but as she turns back to the camera, the waves begin to build in size One wave smashes the women and soaks them, but they remain on their feet and continue taking pictures The wave soaks the couple but does not knock them off balance and the defiant tourists set up for another picture. From their vantage point on the clifftop, the onlookers can see that an even bigger wave is building and cries of 'oh she's still got the camera!' and 'there's a bigger one coming!' are heard. At the last minute, the poser realises that she is about to be drenched and crouches down to lower her centre of gravity to maintain balance. But the wave completely engulfs them and they are washed away in a cascade of water that carries them over the rocks and back towards the cliff. A second much larger wave is building and, having spotted it, the poser suddenly crouches down to avoid being knocked over However, the surf engulfs them and the pair are swept away in a cascade of water which washes them towards the cliff Luckily, neither of the pair were seriously in injured and only suffered some cuts. The person who witnessed the wipeout said: 'While I was travelling in Kauai, Hawaii I spent a day exploring Queen's bath, where I witnessed two girls get completely taken out by a huge wave trying to get the perfect shot. 'They were lucky enough to walk away with only a few bad scratches and a ticket on their car cause they parked illegally before heading down to the water; also a broken camera.' A heroic 18-year-old student has talked about the moment his friend fearlessly slammed into a gunman like a 'human bowling ball' during the Colorado high school shooting. US Marine-hopeful Brendan Bialy said he and another student fought to disarm one of the shooters and pin them to the ground after Kendrick Castillo, 18, charged at the attacker at STEM School Highlands Ranch, Denver. Castillo was shot and died after the attack, and eight others were injured. The two gunners, revealed as a 18-year-old student Devon Erickson and 16-year-old Alec McKinney, appeared in court yesterday following the attack on Tuesday. A heroic 18-year-old student has talked about the moment his friend slammed into the Colorado school gunman 'like a human bowling ball' before being shot Brendan Bialy said the gunman 'was against the wall and didn't know what the hell hit him' when his friend Kendrick Castillo, 18, charged into him. Castillo was shot during the attack on Tuesday and later lost his life after being taken to a nearby hospital. (Pictured) Bialy with his mother Dena Martin Speaking about Castillo, who he had known since freshman year, Bialy said he rushed at the gunman like a 'human bowling ball' as soon as he entered the classroom. 'The gunman... was against the wall and didn't know what the hell hit him,' he said. 'It's really hard to stop that kid when he gets going.' As the trio scuffled to disarm the gunman, Castillo was shot one or two times and collapsed to the floor. Once the gun was taken from the shooter, Bialy said he called out to his friend but received no reply. An IT teacher came in and began performing CPR on the 18-year-old, but he later died in a nearby hospital, as students ran under desks shocked by what had just happened. Kendrick Castillo, 18, was shot in the chest as he bravely lunged at the shooter along with Bialy. The senior, who was set to graduate in three days, died from his wounds on Tuesday 'Kendrick went out as a hero,' Bialy said. 'He was a foot away from the shooter and instead of running the opposite direction he ran toward it.' Speaking about the shooting, Bialy said: 'What I saw yesterday was the absolute best of people. I got to see two heroes, two regular high school kids, two really awesome people, jump into action without any hesitation. 'I was more than lucky to join them in doing that action. 'Someone entered the building with incredibly malicious intent using their cowardice, surprise and superior weapons and they lost. 'They completely and utterly lost to good people and that is plain and simple. 'I don't know how I would have acted in that situation like it's not something I practice for. Bialy said 'It's really hard to stop (Castillo) when he gets going', while talking about the attack. (Pictured) Bialy (third from left) with mother Dena Martin (right), father Brad Bialy (left) and attorney Mark Bryant The two suspect shooters Devon Erickson, 18, (above) and a juvenile female are in police custody 'I think everybody has this idea when they come in with a gun, what do I do? 'Everybody thinks I mean I thought that yeah I'd jump in but I'm just happy I did I didn't think consciously I'd do this and then this it just happened.' The student only received some bruises on his knee during the attack. Brad Bialy, Brendan's father, said his son and friends were able to subdue and disarm the shooter. He told the New York Times 'his son and two friends tried to tackle the gunman but one of the boys was shot in the chest'. Brad Bialy said Brendan wants to join the Marine Corps after graduating. Shooters 18-year-old student Devon Erickson and 16-year-old Alec McKinney, who the trio knew, appeared in court yesterday following the attack. Devon Erickson, 18, covered his face with his streaked purple hair and was wearing nail polish when he made his brief court appearance dressed in a red prison jumpsuit and handcuffs. Erickson was earlier charged as an adult with first-degree murder and attempted murder over the shooting at STEM School Highlands Ranch in Denver on Tuesday afternoon. Shots were fired at STEM School Highlands Ranch in Denver at 1.53pm Tuesday afternoon Students pictured evacuating the school after the shooting broke out on Tuesday No plea was entered and Erickson was ordered to return to court on Friday. Alec McKinney, the teen's accused accomplice, appeared in court later on Wednesday and is being charged separately as a juvenile. Police described McKinney as a female named Maya after initially identifying the second gunman as a boy based on appearances. But friends of McKinney have confirmed that the teen identified as a male and preferred to be called 'Alec'. The pair were both taken into custody immediately after they stormed two classrooms and opened fire with handguns that were concealed in a guitar case. The Douglas County sheriff said 'very heroic things took place' inside the school as the shooting unfolded.' 'We are deeply saddened for the victims, families, friends and community on this tragic day,' the Bialy family said in an emailed statement issued by lawyer Mark L. Bryant. 'We'd like to commend the immediate response of law enforcement and assure all we are strong with the love of our families, community, friends and every one sending concern, wishes, and strength. We will persevere,' the statement added. Authorities have not yet released a motive for the shooting, which occurred just seven miles from the scene of the deadly 1999 Columbine High School massacre. Bialy's classmate Nui Giasolli praised and thanked him for his bravery. Speaking on the Today show on Wednesday morning she said Brendan, Castillo and their friend gave 'all of us enough time to get underneath our desks, to get ourselves safe, and to run across the room to escape'. The two suspect shooters Erickson and the juvenile female who authorities previously identified as a boy and is in the process of transitioning are in police custody. They opened fire at the school at 1.53pm Tuesday afternoon. Nine students suffered gunshot wounds in the shooting and three of them remain in intensive care in hospital. Five had been discharged from the hospital by Wednesday morning. Castillo was the sole fatality. Classmate Nui Giasolli hailed Brendan Bialy (above) and Kendrick Castillo as heroes for taking down the shooter saying they gave 'all of us enough time to get underneath our desks, to get ourselves safe, and to run across the room to escape' Nine students suffered gunshot wounds in the shooting and three of them remain in intensive care in hospital and one died from their wounds Police pictured at the scene of the shooting that left one dead and injured eight others 'We know two individuals walked into the STEM school, got deep inside the school and engaged students in two separate locations,' Sheriff Tony Spurlock of Douglas County said at a news conference Wednesday morning. Authorities have not yet released a motive for the shooting, which occurred just seven miles from the scene of the deadly 1999 Columbine High School massacre. STEM School Highlands Ranch teaches kindergarten through 12th grade and has about 1,800 students. There was no police officer assigned to the school as the administration opted for private security instead. The school alerted police immediately after the first gunshots were fired and police were on the scene two minutes later. Visitors to a Chinese zoo have vented their fury after seeing nothing but a dog in the lion's enclosure. Footage taken by one tourist shows a golden retriever lying on the ground of an enclosure while a signboard outside reads 'this is a young lion' and 'lions are the King of the Jungle'. Visitors claimed the zoo in Zhucheng was trying to fool them, but the zoo explained the dog was there to nurse lion cubs. Footage filmed by one visitor to the zoo in Zhucheng, China, shows a dog lying in an enclosure with a signboard saying 'baby lions'. Visitors have accused of the zoo of trying to fool them The 22-second video was said to be taken at the Zhucheng Wild Animal Park in eastern China's Shandong Province. In the footage filmed outside a glass-walled enclosure, a female voice is heard saying: 'This is a dangerous lion, so [we] need to surround it with glass.' A child, believed to be the woman's son, then responds: 'What do you mean by a dangerous lion?' The boy pauses before adding: 'It is a little dog.' The clip emerged on China's Twitter-like Weibo on Sunday and came with a hashtag which translates as 'the zoo uses a dog to pose as a lion'. According to the signboard, the enclosure is meant to display lion cubs. The video was said to be taken at the Zhucheng Wild Animal Park in Shandong (pictured) A keeper at the zoo said the golden retriever was in the enclosure to nurse lion cubs (file photo) The management of the zoo have responded to the complaint, claiming the golden retriever was nursing three lion cubs in the enclosure. According to a keeper, the zoo has two eight-month-old cubs and one six-month-old cub, but their mother is too busy to feed them. 'The golden retriever is the "wet nurse" of the young cubs and very close to the cubs, therefore [we] keep them together instead of separating them,' the keeper told local news outlet Dazhong Net. Zhucheng Wild Animal Park occupies 612 acres and costs 350 million yuan (40 million) to build, according to Chinese travel booking site Ctrip. The zoo is said to have more than 2,000 animals, including 10 African lions, five Siberian tigers and more than 40 bears. A manhunt has been launched for a truck driver who killed a couple on their way to a wedding last year seven months after he plowed into their car with his 18-wheeler. Authorities are searching for Jaspreet Singh Chahal, 24, who is wanted for the deaths of Joseph Kearney, 42, and Kathryn Schurtz, 35. The pair died in Pennsylvania last year after Chahal's 18-wheeler rear-ended their SUV. They were driving to their wedding at the time. Chahal stayed at the scene after the crash and sat on the side of the road but refused to answer questions. He was not charged at the time but now, seven months later and as the result of labored investigations, he has been charged with vehicular homicide. Detectives however cannot find the man, who is a California native. They say he was talking on the phone to his sister at the time of the crash and failed to break. No photographs have emerged of Chahal and police are yet to explain why it has taken so long for an arrest warrant to be issued. Joseph Kearney, 42, and Kathryn Schurtz, 35, were crushed to death by the 18-wheeler last November Firefighters extinguish the blaze that engulfed the couple's SUV and two trucks on the Interstate 78 on November 14 2018 Joseph Kearney, 42, and Kathryn Schurtz, 35, were killed in the crash 'We have to find him,' Berks County District Attorney John Adams said. 'That is our main goal at this point.' Chahal may not even have hit the brakes before impact. 'I've seen many horrific facts from accidents,' Adams said. 'In this case, we certainly believe he never braked before impacting the vehicles ahead of him, which makes the facts of this case extremely egregious.' The couple, from New Jersey, were driving to their wedding in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, when the accident happened. State Trooper Travis Rutt, the first officer to arrive on the scene, found the couple's car and two of the trucks involved already ablaze. Joseph Kearney, 42 (left) and Kathryn Schurtz, 35 (right), both from New Jersey, were killed when Jaspreet Singh Chahal's 18-wheeler truck plowed into their stopped SUV The crash had pushed the couple's car under the rear of another tractor-trailer and caused what Rutt called a 'chain reaction of impacts' involving a total of five trucks. Rutt had been posted further back along the road to warn drivers of the roadworks and tailbacks ahead. The right lane was closed with traffic cones and signs. Two 'Road Work Ahead' signs were placed 2 miles before the works, and an electronic message board about 1.5 miles before the lane restriction, but traffic was backed up past that after an earlier accident. Roughly and hour after the crash the county 911 centre told the Hamburg station that a woman who identified herself as Chahal's sister had called them out of concern for her brother. She said she had been speaking to him by phone when she heard a commotion and his electronic logbook disconnected. The aftermath of the November 14 2018 crash on the Interstate 78 near Windsor, California, which killed a couple on their way to their wedding Kearney and Schurtz were pronounced dead at the scene from crushing injuries. Schurtz worked as Head of Platform Partnerships for Oracle Data Cloud in New York City, according to NBC 4. Her obituary said her loved ones will cherish memories of the George Washington University liberal arts degree graduate, who earned an MBA from the prestigious Notre Dame. 'She will be remembered for her voracious appetite for reading, love of cooking, and trailblazing new adventures with Joseph,' it read. She survived by her parents, Joseph and Karen; sister, Kimberly, her sister and brother-in-law Joanne and Kevin Schwoer; and her three-month-old nephew Landon Schwoer. A plane was left in a crumpled heap after skidding off the runway while landing in Myanmar, injuring at least four people including a pilot. The jet, operated by Biman Bangladesh Airlines crashed at Myanmar's Yangon International Airport on Wednesday evening, an airline official said. Biman spokesman Shakil Meraj said the accident happened when the Bombardier Dash-8 Q400 aircraft was landing in bad weather after a flight from Bangladesh's capital, Dhaka. Flight BG060 was carrying 33 people, including two pilots and two flight attendants and the condition of the four injured people was said to not be life-threatening. The Biman Bangladesh Airlines plane siting at the end of a runway at Yangon International Airport after it was involved in an accident in Yangon A plane operated by Biman Bangladesh Airlines sitting damaged at Yangon International Airport after it skidded off the runway Photos of the plane showed it lying partly on the wet runway and partly on the grass. Its fuselage appeared to be broken in at least two spots. Meraj said he was unaware of news reports that about 15 people had been hospitalized, but he could confirm there were no fatalities. The Bangladeshi newspaper The Daily Star quoted Bangladesh's ambassador in Yangon as saying: 'All are injured more or less but no one was in critical state. However, 15 of the injured are hospitalised.' Meraj said the airline was sending a special flight to bring back the passengers and crew. 'We want to ensure that everybody is treated properly in case of any injuries,' he said. Asked if passengers could decide to stay in Yangon, he replied, 'We can't force anybody, but what we want to ensure is that everybody is OK, and they can return with our team.' An injured passenger from a Biman Bangladesh Airlines plane that came off the runway as it landed in bad weather being transported from North Okkalapa hospital Four people were injured after the Bombardier Dash-8 Q400 aircraft crashed as it landed at night and in bad weather Airport authorities briefly halted runway operations after the accident but announced later they had resumed, though flight delays were expected. The accident comes as two other planes crashed on the runway in the last sic days, including the Sheremetyevo airport disaster in Moscow that killed 41 people. The Aeroflot Sukhoi SuperJet made an emergency landing and burst into flames on Sunday. On Friday a Boeing 737 hit land at Naval Air Station in Jacksonville, Florida, and skidded off the runway and plunged into St Johns River. There were no fatalities in the crash, but 21 people had to be taken to local hospitals. Officials said the plane was struck by thunder and lightning as it flew from Guantanamo Bay to Florida. North Korea has fired two missiles today in the latest sign of escalation on the peninsula, according to the South. The two projectiles were launched from a base in North Korea's north-west and aimed toward the east, Seoul defence officials said. Experts said there was 'no doubt' that the weapons, which are said to have flown around 260 miles and 167 miles respectively, were missiles. It comes just days after the North launched rocket artillery and an apparent short-range ballistic missile into the ocean. Satellite images shows the smoke trail, (pictured), of a short-range ballistic missile Sea launched into the sea by North Korea on Saturday U.S. demands release of political prisoners in North Korea The United States called on North Korea on Thursday to dismantle camps estimated to be holding tens of thousands of political prisoners, while Pyongyang hit back at Washington's sanctions. U.S. President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un have met twice in the last year, with Washington seeking curbs on Pyongyang's nuclear programme and North Korea pursuing sanctions relief - but the rapprochement appears to be in limbo. 'The human rights situation in North Korea is deplorable and has no parallel in the modern world,' senior U.S. diplomat Mark Cassayre told the United Nations Human Rights Council during a five-year review of North Korea's record. U.N. rights investigators have estimated between 80,000 to 120,000 people are in political detention camps in North Korea where torture and other violations are taking place that they say may amount to crimes against humanity. As well as urging those camps to be closed and their inmates released, charge d'affaires Cassayre exhorted authorities to allow aid workers unrestricted movement and access to people in need, and to tolerate possession of religious texts. North Korea, which also came under criticism from Britain and Canada at Thursday's meeting, denies the existence of political prisoners and says it is the victim of propaganda. By Reuters Advertisement President Donald Trump responded to the launch by saying the US was 'looking very seriously' at it. He said that while North Korea wants to negotiate with the United States, he does not think it is ready to do so. 'We're looking at it very seriously right now. They were smaller missiles, they were short-range missiles,' Trump told reporters at the White House. 'Nobody's happy about it but we're taking a good look and we'll see.' 'The relationship continues ... I know they want to negotiate, they're talking about negotiating. But I don't think they're ready to negotiate,' Trump said. Today's projectile was fired in an eastward direction and appeared to originate from Sino-ri in North Pyongan province. South Korea is still analysing whether it was a single or multiple projectiles. The decades-old Sino-ri operational missile base, 45 miles north-west of Pyongyang, is one of North Korea's longest-running missile facilities. It houses a regiment-sized unit equipped with Nodong-1 medium-range ballistic missiles, according to the Centre for Strategic and International Studies. Anything fired from it in an easterly direction would have to cross the Korean peninsula before reaching the sea. Just 10 minutes later, the U.S. tested its own intercontinental ballistic missile which flew 4,200 into the Pacific, in a planned test. It came hours after the U.S. Special Representative on North Korea, Stephen Biegun, arrived in Seoul late on Wednesday for talks. On Sunday, North Korean state media showed leader Kim Jong Un observing live-fire drills of long-range multiple rocket launchers. They also showed what appeared to be a new short-range ballistic missile fired from a launch vehicle. Pyongyang said criticism from South Korea about that launch was a 'cock-and-bull story' and claimed it was a regular defensive exercise. A separate statement by a North Korean foreign ministry spokesman described the launches as a 'routine and self-defensive military drill'. A day earlier, the South's Joint Chiefs of Staff said they detected the North firing multiple projectiles toward the sea from near the eastern town of Wonsan. North Korea's state media said that leader Kim Jong Un had overseen a rocket and tactical guided weapons test. Pictured is a satellite image taken just after the missile was launched The launches are believed to have marked North Korea's first ballistic missile test in more than 500 days. The two Koreas last year vowed to cease 'hostile acts' to reduce tensions but Pyongyang has showed growing frustration at peace talks. Kim Jong-un's second summit with Donald Trump collapsed with no progress in February and the two nations have had a number of angry exchanges since then. Kim has said he is open to a third meeting with Trump, but only if Washington offers mutually acceptable terms for an agreement by the end of the year. South Korea's presidential Blue House and Defence Ministry urged North Korea to refrain from acts that could escalate tensions. The North Korean statements hinted that Saturday's weapons launches werea response to joint military drills conducted by the United States and South Korea in March and April. The test came just hours after US President Donald Trump, (left), said he still has faith in de-nuclearisation negotiations with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, (right) The North also criticized the test of a U.S. Minuteman intercontinental ballistic missile from a U.S. Air Force base in California last week. North Korea last conducted a major missile test in November 2017 when it flight-tested an intercontinental ballistic missile. The weapons demonstrated potential capability to reach deep into the U.S. mainland. Since then Kim has said the North would not test nuclear devices or ICBMs but diplomacy has stalled in recent weeks. In bitter exchanges the North has taken relentless aim at U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo. Pyongyang launched an extraordinary attack on Pompeo last month, questioning 'whether he is indeed unable to understand words properly'. Happier times: North Korean dictator Kim Jong-un meets U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo in Pyongyang last year. Kim's regime has demanded that Pompeo is replaced as envoy Researchers in Washington believe that these satellite images, showing railcars at North Korea's nuclear research site in Yongbyon, could be a sign that bomb fuel is being prepared The North demanded that he stand down from nuclear talks to be replaced by someone who is more 'careful and mature in communicating'. 'I am afraid that, if Pompeo engages in the talks again, the table will be lousy once again and the talks will become entangled,' an official said. Last year he was condemned by the North for his 'gangster-like' insistence that the North move towards unilateral disarmament. Satellite images which emerged from the North's nuclear site in Yongbyon last month also sparked fears that Pyongyang was preparing bomb fuel. A U.S. think tank said the pictures showed movement at the site which could indicate the reprocessing of radioactive material. Satellite imagery from April 12 showed five specialised railcars near its Uranium Enrichment Facility and Radiochemistry Laboratory, the report said. Sanctions against the North over its nuclear and missiles programmes remain in place. Experts have estimated the size of North Korea's nuclear arsenal at anywhere between 20 and 60 warheads. This is the heart-stopping moment an experienced mountain climber slipped and fell 60ft to what he believed would be his death. Kyle Walker, 26, bounced down the rock face like a rag doll with no harness to stop him smacking into the ground. He miraculously survived the plummet down the Boulder Flatirons in Colorado but suffered life-threatening injuries. Yet after being treated for a punctured lung, two broken wrists, eight broken ribs and a fractured pelvis, Kyle has now reportedly left hospital and has shared the dramatic GoPro footage of his fall last month. Kyle Walker, 26, has now reportedly left hospital after recovering from a 60ft fall from a mountain in Colorado Headcam video shows the climber dangling from the jagged mountainside from his fingers which are hooked on to a mossy rock. Kyle tries to propel himself up and on to the ledge which he is hanging from, but doesn't have the strength to do it. 'In the middle of my final move I realise I'm tiring quickly and I have one chance to explode over the rock to a resting place', he told the Daily Camera. The footage shows Kyle trying to navigate the best way up before he uses his final energy reserves to heave himself on to the ledge. The climber dangles from the jagged mountainside from his fingers which are hooked on to a mossy rock, before trying to haul himself up and on to a ledge But he slips from the rock and bounces down the mountainside with no harness to stop him hitting the ground Suddenly, as he prepares to haul himself up, the climber loses his footing and falls from the rock before the video starts to spin as he hurtles down the mountainside. He does not even try to lash out and grab on to the rocks as he believes he is going to be killed by the fall. 'Accepting that I was dead I didn't flail or grab, I just fell,' Kyle said. Kyle's surrounding's seem to spin as he hurtles down the rock-face, but he he doesn't try to grab on to the mountainside as he believes he faces certain death After hitting the ground, he lays sprawled out and groaning for an hour before hikers stumble upon him and alert rescue teams After crashing down on to the ground, he lays sprawled and almost motionless while a slight groaning noise can be heard. Kyle slipped in and out of consciousness for about an hour before he was finally discovered by a hiker who called rescue crews. The experienced climber, with hundreds of ascents under his belt, considers himself 'beyond lucky' and has warned others about the dangers of climbing without ropes. A man's sore throat ended in a week-long induced coma and both his arms and legs being amputated after contracting two deadly infections. Jason Miller thought he was just sick after coming off a flight back to Sydney from the Philippines last October - but he soon became unable to walk a few meters without needing to sleep. After not going to work for three days, the Manly ferry operator went to see a doctor at Warringah Medical Centre on the Northern Beaches, thinking he would only need a drip to get better. Jason Miller thought he was just sick after coming off a flight back to Sydney from the Philippines last October - but he soon became unable to walk a few meters without needing to sleep, and ended up in hospital 'His beautiful 7 year old daughter was carried in to say goodbye to daddy': Mr Miller's family were told he was suffering from severe septic shock, multiple organ failure and toxic shock syndrome, and was placed into an induced coma After being rushed to see the next available doctor, the 48-year-old father was taken from the emergency ward to the intensive care unit, telling staff he felt like he was dying. After experiencing stomach pains, Mr Miller - whose friends call him Buddy - didn't wake up for a whole week. Hospital tests showed he had contracted two bacterial infections called streptococcus and aerococcus. In March - five months after he became sick - Mr Miller had both of his hands and feet amputated, and has now been using his new prosthetic legs for nearly three weeks In a short amount of time, the combination of the two infections had all but destroyed his immune system. Mr Miller's family rushed to be by his side in hospital, where they were told he was suffering from severe septic shock, multiple organ failure and toxic shock syndrome. He was then placed into an induced coma as a result of multiple complications by his serious illness, including gangrene. Doctors frantically worked to save him as his internal organs started to shut down. His family were told that his heart would give out, and they said their tearful goodbyes as a priest read him his last rites. 'His beautiful 7 year old daughter was carried in to say goodbye to daddy - but he wasn't ready to leave her just yet,' a family friend wrote on his Go Fund Me page which has raised more than $62,000. Mr Miller had a one per cent chance of surviving, with doctors telling him he didn't even have an hour left in him after he arrived in hospital last October 'Buddy fought and fought. His determination to stay alive rocked the doctors and nurses who couldn't believe he was still hanging on.' He said doctors and nurses worked overtime for days and days to save his life. 'I had one percent chance (of surviving) with a doctor telling me 'You didn't have one hour left in you',' Mr Miller told nine.com.au from his Prince of Wales Hospital room. In March, Mr Miller had both of his hands and feet amputated, and has now been using his new prosthetic legs for nearly three weeks. 'I'm having fun learning how to walk. It's painful and tiring but it's still fun. It sounds like a black comedy,' he said with a laugh. To this day he still doesnt know how he developed the infections, and remains in hospital for now Doctors have encouraged Mr Miller to try and keep the phantom sensation he experiences in his hand, as imagining it's still there helps with prosthetic limbs. To this day he still doesnt know how he developed the infections, and remains in hospital for now. But with the love and support of his friends and family, he's managed to keep a sense of humour about his new life. 'You're allowed to have a good cry but then righto what's next? I don't worry about the next electricity bill, or getting up to go to work, I don't worry about those little dramas in my life,' he said. It's not certain how much longer Mr Miller expects to spend in hospital, but expects to spend a month in Prince of Wales before going to a Northern Beaches hospital for at least two months. Despite the odds, Mr Miller has kept a positive outlook for his future, and has even been scouted to join a wheelchair rugby team. Sickening pictures of catapult-wielding teenagers showing off dead ducks have emerged on Instagram after locals claim they saw them 'tormenting' the birds. The images show two young boys holding up dead birds in one hand and a catapult in the other. They appear to have been taken in St Paul's Cray in Bromley, south London, where they have been circulated on social media to the disgust of locals. One woman claimed she saw the youths 'tormenting' a goose at a park in the area. She claims she went to find help, only to return and see the bird 'sat in a pool of blood'. The pictures have been reported to police in the area, who described them as 'sickening' and have launched a witness appeal. It is illegal to kill wild birds under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, which can mean a six-month prison sentence or a 5,000 fine. Images that are believed to have been taken in St Paul's Cray, Bromley, south London on May 7 show this teenage boy showing off a dead duck and a catapult The same youngster is pictured in a similar pose with another dead bird and a catapult The park-goer who posted the Instagram images on Facebook claims she saw the group of boys 'acting suspiciously' at the park on Tuesday. She claims they carried out 'sustained and brutal cruelty' on geese and ducks at St Paul's Cray Recreation Ground for 'over an hour'. They were caught and chased off by locals, but later returned to the scene, she added. She said: 'It's been so upsetting. I don't know what to do about the situation, it's been reported to animal welfare and as this was an intentional act with weapons, also to the police.' Neighbours expressed their outrage, calling for the teens to be brought to justice. One person wrote: 'Truly amazed at what's happening to some of our youth!! When will it end?' Another posted: 'Make their parents accountable for the despicable behaviour of their children.' Someone else commented: 'What is wrong with these kids? Have they no sense or heart at all? Animal killers deserve to be locked up.' Locals in St Paul's Cray claim they saw a group of teenagers (two pictured) 'tormenting' a goose, before they found it 'in a pool of blood' on Tuesday Police in the area have launched a bid to find the youths. A Cray Valley West police spokesman said: 'Police were sickened to see and hear of the recent actions of some against our local wildlife. 'We are looking into it and want to see those responsible brought to justice. 'In order to do so, we want anyone who has witnessed any incidents of cruelty against waterfowl in and around the Orpington area to get in touch with us at Crayvalleywest.snt@met.police.uk 'If the community have any information, including images of any damage caused, of those responsible or if they know the identities of those involved please get in touch. 'Whilst there will be patrols in the affected areas by locals police and Bromley Council Ward Security, we'd like to encourage anyone who witnesses any further incidents to contact police as soon as possible.' An RSPCA spokesman told MailOnline: 'We can confirm we have had numerous calls about this distressing incident and would like to thank those who have taken the time to report it to us. 'An inspector has visited the site but could not find any bodies of geese or ducks, however we will be reviewing the images and video footage which has been sent to us. 'All wild birds are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and it is illegal - except under licence - to take, injure or kill wild birds. 'Under the Wildlife and Countryside Act, the use of crossbows to kill or take birds is also prohibited. The maximum penalty, if found guilty, is six months in prison and/or a 5,000 fine.' Advertisement This is the heart-breaking moment a mother giraffe makes a brave but futile attempt to save her calf after the pair were attacked by a pride of lions. Taken by wildlife photographer James Nampaso, 38, the photos show the hungry lions attempting to leap at the baby giraffe. The calf's mother puts herself in the lions' path in an effort to fight them off - with one of the predators clambering onto her back. But despite her efforts, the lions eventually managed to separate the mother and calf before devouring their young prey. These hair-raising pictures show the heart-breaking moment that a mother giraffe makes a brave but futile attempt to save her calf after the pair were attacked by a pride of lions The calf's mother puts herself in the lion's path in an effort to stop it from jumping at her calf, but sadly, the calf is killed The photos were taken by wildlife photographer James Nampaso, 38, on the Olare Motorogi Conservancy in Kenya The hungry pride gather around the giraffe calf, clearly seeing the baby as easy prey, and the mother tries to stop them The dramatic images were captured on the Olare Motorogi Conservancy in Kenya. Mr Nampaso said: 'It's a life experience in 12 years which I have never seen before.' The hungry pride of lions gather around the giraffe calf, clearly seeing the baby as easy prey. But dinner wasn't as easy to come by as they had hoped, as the brave mother put up an incredible fight, putting herself between the lions and her baby. Mr Nampaso said of the sight: 'It's a life experience in 12 years which I have never seen before'. Above: the lion clings to the mother giraffe's back with its claws and teeth Dinner was not as easy to come by as the lions had hoped, as the brave mother put up an incredible fight, even though the lions clung to her fiercely When the lion had jumped on her back, the mother giraffe was able to throw it off, but that did not deter the predators The mother did survive the grisly ordeal, but her calf was not so lucky. It was finally separated from its mother and killed At one point, the lion jumps onto her back - and she throws him off. But sadly, it isn't long before the pride manages to separate the pair and bring down the calf, although the mother survived. Mr Nampaso added: 'The lions were trying to separate the mother and young and finally they managed to separate and kill the young baby. 'It is nature but it is still very sad.' The defenceless calf was then surrounded by the pride. Mr Nampaso added: 'The lions were trying to separate the mother and young and finally they managed to separate and kill the young baby. It is nature but it is still very sad' The calf could not do anything to stop the lions, who viciously brought it down as it cried out in terror before being eaten An Air France flight from Paris to Mumbai with 256 passengers on board made an emergency landing in Iran after the aircraft's ventilation system malfunctioned. The Airbus A340 plane, flown by the airline's budget carrier Joon, started to unexpectedly descend over the city of Isfahan, in central Iran, yesterday, and a '7700 squawk', indicating an emergency, was issued by the pilot. The AF218 flight, which also had 11 crew, then landed at the city's airport and Air France later said there had been a malfunction of the ventilation system. The status of the flight on air tracker app FlightRadar24 was simpy 'unknown', with the site saying the jet signal was lost, prompting initial fears that the plane had disappeared from radar. But Air France confirmed that they never lost contact with the plane. An Air France flight from Paris to Mumbai with 256 passengers on board made an emergency landing in Iran after the aircraft's ventilation system malfunctioned In a statement, the airline stressed that the landing was 'precautionary' and part of normal procedures in such a situation. 'Air France confirms that the crew of flight AF218 of May 8, 2019 operated by JOON, between Paris (CDG) and Bombay (BOM) in an Airbus A340, has decided to divert to Isfahan airport (Iran) following a malfunction of the ventilation system,' a spokesman said. 'The plane landed normally at Isfahan at 17:00 (Paris time).' 'Air France teams are fully mobilized to take care of customers at Isfahan International Airport. The Airbus A340 plane, flown by the airline's budget carrier Joon, started to unexpectedly descend over the city of Isfahan, in central Iran, yesterday, and a '7700 squawk', indicating an emergency, was issued by the pilot. The AF218 flight, which also had 11 crew, then landed at the city's airport (pictured) The status of the flight on air tracker app FlightRadar24 was simpy 'unknown', with the site saying the jet signal was lost, prompting initial fears that the plane had disappeared from radar 'Air France understands and regrets the inconveniences caused by this situation and reminds that the safety of its customers and crews is its absolute imperative,' they added. Air Traffic monitor FlightRadar24 said the flight disappeared from radar after the jet signal was lost. It said a '7700 squawk' had been issued by the pilot, which indicates an emergency. Jacinda Ardern (pictured) has been voted as country's most trusted politician, a new poll reveals Jacinda Ardern has beaten the likes of Bill Shorten and Scott Morrison to the top spot after she was voted as the country's most trusted politician - even though she's not Australian. The New Zealand Prime Minister's landslide popularity was revealed after Research Company Millward Brown asked 1,4000 Australians to score 12 politicians out of 100, based on six attributes: relevance, integrity, shared values, commitment, affinity and follow through. The 38-year-old Labour Party leader was the outright winner with a high score of 77, while Labor's Leader of the Senate Penny Wong trailed behind in second place with a score of just 53. Unexpectedly, founder and One Nation Party Leader Pauline Hanson scored higher than both Prime Minister Scott Morrison and Opposition Leader Bill Shorten. The results could reignite concerns voters will flock to fringe parties at the impending Federal Election. Australia's divisive One Nation Party has capitalised on voter frustrations, finding a niche appetite for its anti-immigration stance and socially conservative message. The party won four upper house Senate seats in 2016 and has since rattled mainstream parties in regional elections. Founder and leader of the One Nation Party Pauline Hanson (pictured) came in with a score of just 44 - beating both Scott Morrison and Bill Shorten Prime Minister Scott Morrison (pictured) narrowly beat his rival Bill Shorten with a score of 43 In November last year One Nation won almost 14 percent of a vote in the state of Queensland, which saw nearly a third of voters flee the two major parties. And with neither major party likely to win a majority in the Senate - they will likely have to deal with a chaotic Senate that will require them to cut deals with a range of minor parties. Although Hanson proved more 'trustworthy' than Shorten and Morrison, a number of other politicians came in higher than her in the poll. Completing the top five was former deputy Liberal leader Julie Bishop with 52, Labor Deputy Leader Tanya Plibersek with 50 and Labor's Anthony Albanese with 46. Greens' Leader Richard Di Natale came sixth with a score of 45, and Hanson's score of 44 allowed her to sit in seventh place. Next were current Prime Minister Scott Morrison with 43, and Bill Shorten with 42. Former Prime Minister Tony Abbott only amassed a score of 36, while Home Affairs Minister secured a score of just 34 and Leader of the United Australia Party Clive Palmer only reached a score of 30. Research Company Millward Brown asked 1, 4000 Australians to score 12 politicians out of 100, based on six attributes: relevance, integrity, shared values, commitment, affinity and follow through. Participants were also asked to relay who they intended to vote for in the upcoming Federal Election and who they would prefer to be Prime Minister. Adern was exempt from the preferred Prime Minister question, leaving Bishop to take the top spot as the most favourable politician for the top government job. But one in four respondents said they were not impressed by the politicians on offer. Chief strategy officer for OPR, Kaz Scott, said Ardern's unwavering popularity was largely down to the perception she 'represents her country well' and people thought of her as an 'inspirational leader'. Another survey, conducted by The AustraliaInstitute in April, examined how many Australians were able to recognise and knew of current and recent Ministers and Shadow Ministers. In another survey conducted by The AustraliaInstitute more respondents recognised Bill Shorten (pictured) than Prime Minister Scott Morrison Out of 1,426 Australians 77 per cent recognised Bill Shorten, while alarmingly only 75 per cent recognised the country's current Prime Minister Scott Morrison. While little over a quarter of respondents (28 per cent) recognised Nationals leader Michael McCormack. When questioned on which current ministers they had heard of more people said Bishop than Morrison. Ben Oquist, Executive Director of the Australia Institute, said the results actually 'made sense'. 'It makes sense that Bill Shorten has pipped Scott Morrison for most recognised leader given he has been Leader for five years longer than Morrison,' Mr Oquist said. 'Shorten aside, Penny Wong is the most recognised Shadow Minister overall. Senator Wong is more well-known than almost all of the current Cabinet. 'Michael McCormack has also suffered from the same fate as Morrison with his relatively short tenure the likely cause of his low 28% recognition among voters,' he concluded. Advertisement Russian President Vladimir Putin took a defiant tone at Moscow's annual military Victory Day parade in Red Square, declaring that the country will continue to strengthen its armed forces. The Kremlin strongman watched on as 13,000 troops and more than 130 pieces of weaponry were paraded through the capital in a show of Russian military power. Referring to his country's battle with Nazi Germany, Putin then warned 'the lessons of the past war are relevant once again' as he made his case for 'guaranteeing the high capabilities of our armed forces'. Russia's ties with the West soured following its annexation of Crimea from Ukraine in 2014, and Moscow has continued to challenge the United States through its staunch support for Syrian President Bashar al-Assad and Venezuela's President Nicolas Maduro. Among the hundreds of pieces of military hardware paraded in front of veterans and dignitaries was Russia's Yars mobile intercontinental nuclear missile launcher and its advanced S-400 air defence missile system, which Moscow has deployed in Syria to protect its forces and Putin's new 120,000 4.4 lite V-8 convertible limousine. There were also regiments of glamorous female soldiers on display who were pictured smiling as they filed past Mr Putin. It also included military equipment, ranging from a T-34 tank - renowned for its effectiveness in World War II - to lumbering Yars ICBM launch units, ground-to-air rocket missile systems and Russian Armata tanks. Russian female military servicemen march during the Victory Day parade on Red square in Moscow on Thursday afternoon Smiling Russian naval cadets were pictured marching in perfect step as they filed past Putin during the Victory Day parade Russian Armata tanks roll down Red Square during the Victory Day military parade to celebrate 74 years since the victory in WWII in Red Square in Moscow Russian Ground Forces Commander-in-Chief, Colonel General Oleg Salyukov salutes the troops from Putin's new 120,000 convertible limousine during the Victory Day military parade today Russian President Vladimir Putin delivers a speech in front of St. Basil's Cathedral during the Victory Day parade i which he pledged to 'guarantee the high capabilities of our armed forces' Russian Yars RS-24 intercontinental ballistic missile systems roll through Red Square during the Victory Day military parade in downtown Moscow today Vladimir Putin kisses his class teacher at school Vera Gurevich during an official reception marking 74 years since the victory in WWII, in Kremlin Russian military police officers stand in formation during a Victory Day Parade in the city of Grozny, Chechen Republic Former Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev (centre) is surrounded by his assistants as he arrives to attend the Victory Day military parade in Red Square today Crowds of people carry portraits of their relatives who fought in World War II as they take part in the Immortal Regiment march on Tverskaya Street in Moscow Russian Pacific Fleet Commander, Admiral Sergei Avakyants reviews the troops in a vintage car during the Victory Parade Earlier, he was forced into the last minute cancellation of a major military flypast over Red Square amid warnings of bad weather, during the parade which marks the 74th anniversary of the end of the Second World War in Europe. Putin's speech to thousands of soldiers and veterans in Red Square came at the start of the annual parade that saw hundred of pieces of military hardware roll through the streets of Moscow. He said: 'The lessons of the past war are relevant once again. We have done and will do all that is necessary to guarantee the high capabilities of our armed forces. 'At the same time, Russia is open for cooperation with all who are ready to resist terrorism, neo-Nazism and extremism. 'We call on all countries to recognise our common responsibility to create a security system that is effective and equal for everyone.' Those in the modern Russian army remember the 'oath' of Soviet soldiers who fought Nazi Germany, he added: 'I die but I will not surrender'. Putin asked the crowd to observe a minute's silence as the Kremlin clock chimed under grey skies. Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev, 88, and Hollywood actor Steven Seagal, who has been a vocal supporter of Putin, were at the commemoration along with Russian dignitaries. Female honour guards dressed in gold braid and blue tunics smile towards Mr Putin's position as they march during the parade Putin's speech to thousands of soldiers and veterans in Red Square came at the start of the annual parade that saw hundred of pieces of military hardware roll through the streets of Moscow Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu and Chief of the Russian Land Forces Oleg Salyukov drive Aurus cabriolets during the Victory Day parade A Russian honour guard soldier marching across Red Square in Moscow today. A flypast was cancelled at the last minute over fears of thunder and cloud Osa ground-to-air missile systems salute during the Victory Day military parade marking the 74th anniversary of the victory over Nazi Germany Servicemen march in formation with their rifles over their shoulders during a Victory Day military parade in Red Square in Moscow Russian President Vladimir Putin shakes hands with WWII veterans prior to a wreath-laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier Servicemen march in formation. Russian officials indicated that 'cloud-spiking' had taken place ahead of today's parade, but had not stopped the threat of thunder Russian T-14 Armata tanks roll through Red Square during the Victory Day military parade in downtown Moscow Honour guards sing as they stand in formation during the Victory Day military parade, which was hampered by the threat of thunder and cloud Russian female military forces during the parade in Moscow. The airshow was cancelled despite attempts by the Russian authorities to 'spike' the clouds and stop rain falling on the capital TR-82A armoured personnel carriers during a Victory Day military parade taking part in the show of military prowess The decision to cancel the airshow was blamed on 'bad weather conditions' and specifically low cloud and the news was disclosed by Russian Defence Ministry-controlled Zvezda TV citing air traffic controllers. There were fears of thunder and lightning too, although the weather during the parade - overseen by Putin and Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu - was dry. Despite the cancellation Putin vowed to ensure Russia's military capabilities as the country marked World War II Victory Day, a commemoration. The march-past by 13,000 troops along with tanks and missile carriers went ahead but some 74 combat aircraft were banned from flying over the Kremlin by the last minute decision. These included the Mi-26, Mi-8, Mi-28N, as well as the Ka-52 and other helicopters. Combat aircraft including the A-50U modernised long-range radar surveillance and control aircraft, the Tu-160, Tu-22M3 and Tu-95MS strategic missile-carrying bombers also failed to take part. Putin's new 120,000 Aurus cabriolet convertible Aurus Senat convertible with Russia's Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu on board the limo, which has been described as a rip-off of British-manufactured Rolls Royce, will go on sale to the public later this year Vladimir Putin's convertible 'Beast' was out in full-force during the Victory Day parade through Moscow's Red Square. The armoured Aurus offers ballistic and explosive protection and can be fully submerged in water and has bee described as a Rolls Royce' rip off. Weighing six tons and powered by a roaring 4.4 lite V-8 engine, the cabriolet is an upgrade to the previous model used by the Kremlin over the past year. The body of the Aurus - which gets its name from a blend of aurum, meaning gold, and Russia - has been described as 'unapologetically Rolls Royce'. The high-powered vehicles will go on sale to the public later this year. Russian Ground Forces Commander-in-Chief, Colonel General Oleg Salyukov, was seen during the Victory Day military parade saluting the troops in Putin's new 120,000 convertible limousine. This new model reportedly has a 'parade mode' which, when travelling at speeds lower than 12mph, provides a smoother ride, with Saudi Arabian politician Khalid al-Falih expressing an interest in using one of the 5,000 models projected to be manufactured a year by 2021. The car is around 22 feet long has a 598 horsepower and can go from 0 to 60mph in nine seconds. Russian Ground Forces Commander-in-Chief, Colonel General Oleg Salyukov (left) and Russia's Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu during a Victory Day military parade Advertisement Other scheduled to fly included Il-76MD military transport planes, MiG-31BM, Su-34 fighter jets, and Su-25 attack aircraft. Routinely then Russian authorities spike clouds around Moscow with a chemical cocktail to 'change the weather' for major Red Square occasions, ensuring sunshine, but it appears that the technology failed to work this year. The Soviet-era system means that while Red Square is bathed in sunshine, villages outside Moscow are drenched with rain. A fleet of Antonov-26 aircraft are deployed to 'spike' clouds with a chemical cocktail of weather-changing silver iodide, liquid nitrogen and dry ice. Russian officials indicated the cloud-spiking had taken place ahead of today's parade. The cancellation came four days after a Sukhoi SuperJet 100 crashed at Moscow's Sheremetyevo airport while making an emergency landing after it was 'hit by lightning', in which 41 people died. Russian Ground Forces Commander-in-Chief, Colonel General Oleg Salyukov, was seen during the Victory Day military parade saluting the troops in Putin's new 120,000 convertible limousine. Weighing six tons and powered by a roaring 4.4 lite V-8 engine, this Aurus cabriolet is an upgrade to the previous model used by the Kremlin over the past year. Colonel General Oleg Salyukov salutes during the parade in Putin's new 120,000 4.4 lite V-8 convertible limousine Russian anti-aircraft system S-400 moves in formation during the Victory Day parade in Red square in Moscow today Russian military servicemen march in formation during the Victory Day parade in Red Square in Moscow on Thursday Russian servicewomen march in unison through Red Square during the Victory Day military parade Russian President Vladimir Putin walking past veterans and officials during the Victory Day military parade at Red Square in downtown Moscow A RS-24 Yars mobile intercontinental ballistic missile system rolls down Moscow's Red Square Russian servicemen march in the Victory Day parade. The march-past by 13,000 troops along with tanks and missile carriers went ahead but some 74 combat aircraft were banned from flying over the Kremlin due to fears over the weather Spectators watch a Victory Day military parade and hold aloft a flag with the hammer and sickle emblem from the Soviet-era Russian servicemen march during the Victory Day parade, which marks the anniversary of the victory over Nazi Germany in World War Two, in Red Square Russian anti-aircraft system S-400 moves in formation through Red Square during the Victory Day parade in Moscow Aleksandr Asovsky, a 97 -year-old veteran of World War II, attends a memorial ceremony marking the 74 anniversary of the end of World War II at the Antakalnis memorial in Vilnius, Lithuania A Russian serviceman prepares military vehicles for the Victory Day parade in downtown Saint Petersburg on Thursday A World War Two motorbike and sidecar carrying veterans and families in the Victory Day parade in Sevastopol in Crimea The body of the Aurus - which gets its name from a blend of aurum, meaning gold, and Russia - has been described as 'unapologetically Rolls Royce'. The high-powered vehicles will go on sale to the public later this year. This new model reportedly has a 'parade mode' which, when travelling at speeds lower than 12mph, provides a smoother ride, with Saudi Arabian politician Khalid al-Falih expressing an interest in using one of the 5,000 models projected to be manufactured a year by 2021. The two-day public holiday to celebrate the 1945 victory comes this year amid heightened tensions with the West and fears of a new Russia-US arms race. Little soldiers: Controversy over Russian children in WWII uniform A youngster in full military uniform taking part in the Victory Day parade When kindergarten staff told Lyubov Sobol her five-year-old daughter needed to come in wearing a miniature military uniform ahead of Russia's World War II Victory Day, she was shocked and angry. But dressing children up in the attire for May 9, the day Russia commemorates Soviet victory over the Nazis, is far from an unusual practice in the country. The trend has grown over President Vladimir Putin's two decades in power, as officials highlight the conflict to boost patriotic sentiment. Child-sized khaki tunics, jaunty caps with a red star and even wooden replica weapons are widely on sale and many youngsters wear such outfits to Victory Day events across Russia. While popular, such outfits have also sparked controversy among parents and professionals. Sobol said: 'As far as I know, the initiative came from above. I don't agree with it,' she said, criticising what she called 'forcing military subject matter on children.' 'This militarised masquerade is coming to every corner of Russia,' she said, adding that when she was at school there was no such custom. Russian children dressed in military uniform and being taught to march for the biggest Kremlin armed forces display of the year. One group of children were seen parading with models of the American M16 rifle Sobol, a lawyer who works with opposition leader Alexei Navalny, persuaded the state kindergarten to cancel the plans for children to wear military gear, with the support of other parents. 'Kindergartens should teach children to treat people well,' she said. 'Not how to hold a machine gun.' In response, conservative pro-Kremlin media accused her of a lack of patriotism, but she insisted she acted to protect 'the rights and interests of people living in our country.' Several other Moscow schools and kindergartens this year have asked children to wear retro uniforms for celebratory concerts and photoshoots, parents told AFP. Others were instructed to bring military-themed ribbons or soldiers' caps. A spokeswoman for the Moscow education department said that the choice of clothing was 'most likely' an individual decision by schools. A poll by the liberal Echo of Moscow radio station found 81 percent of Muscovites thought it was 'wrong' for children to wear military uniform while 17 percent said this was 'OK'. Advertisement Moscow also recently said it would build up its military presence in the Arctic, seeking to assert its influence in the strategic region. World leaders have attended in the past, but were conspicuous by their absence on Thursday, something the Kremlin played down. Nursultan Nazarbayev, who resigned as Kazakh president in March after three decades in power, was the only notable foreign guest. The Kremlin said it had not invited foreign heads of state but next year's 75th anniversary would be marked with greater pomp as a major milestone. Vladimir Putin attends laying flowers at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier after the military parade marking 74 years since the victory in WWII A BMPT Terminator armoured fighting vehicle rolls down Moscow's Red Square alongside hundreds of other heavy military weaponry Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu salutes to soldiers as he is driven along Red Square in an Aurus cabriolet during the Victory Day military parade in downtown Moscow Putin speaking during the Victory Day in Moscow in which he warned 'the lessons of the past war are relevant once again' A soldier salutes as the T-14 Armata battle tank parades through Red Square today as thousands of troops marched as part of the commemoration Russia's President Vladimir Putin laying flowers at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier by the Kremlin Wall during celebrations marking the victory of the Soviet Red Army over Nazi Germany Thousands of Russian servicemen took part in the huge parade through in Vladivostok, Russia, designed to be a show of Russian military strength Russian military vehicles with missiles roll the Red Square during the Victory Day Parade A Katyusha BM-13 Soviet rocket launcher takes part in a Victory Day military parade in Sevastopol in the disputed Crimea The authorities, backed by state media, use the annual event to boost patriotic feeling at home, something that could help lift Putin's approval rating which, though still high at 66 per cent in April, is down from nearly 90 per cent five years ago. The display of raw military power is also designed to show the world and potential buyers of military hardware how a modernisation program has changed the face of the Russian military and arms industry. However, military experts say various problems mean Russia had yet to produce in large numbers some of its newest hardware, such as the T-14 Armata battle tank, despite their Red Square outings. The 'Great Patriotic War' that saw nearly 30 million people die and nearly brought the USSR to its knees The 'Great Patriotic War' is used in Russia to describe the conflict between Russia, her allies, and Nazi Germany from June 1941 and May 1945. Hitlers devastating offensive against Russia threatened to annihilate the Soviet Union so the conflict on the Eastern Front is regarded by Russia as its own independent war. On June 22, 1941, Germany invaded the Soviet Union through Kiev, which had already become a part of the USSR and within one week, around 150,000 Soviet soldiers were wounded or dead. When Kiev fell, 600,000 soldiers were captured and by October of the same year, three million Soviet soldiers were prisoners of war. As his troops marched on the Russia capital, Hitler believed if the Germans won the Battle of Stalingrad he would defeat the USSR, but after nearly a year of fighting one of the bloodiest battles of the war, the Nazis were defeated. From this point on the Red Army was able to push back the tide against the Nazi advance. A conservative estimate states around 26 to 30 million, mostly Soviet civilians as well as military personnel, died in the brutal conflict. Around 1.5 million civilians and soldiers died, most from starvation during the Siege of Leningrad which saw a blockade last 872 days. Russia commemorates the German surrender every year on May 9. Advertisement In March 2018 former Russian spy Sergei Skripal and his daughter Yulia were poisoned on the streets of Salisbury in a chemical attack. They were targeted with Novichok a deadly nerve agent manufactured in Russia's lab rooms at the height of the Cold War. Parades and celebrations took place in towns and cities across the country, from the European exclave of Kaliningrad to the Far Eastern Sakhalin island, near Japan. State television broadcast marches from around the former USSR, including from the unrecognised republic of Lugansk - a Ukrainian breakaway region run by Russia-backed separatists. A Russian WWII veteran being helped to view the parade during a Victory Day commemoration in Moscow's Red Square Russia's Msta-S self-propelled howitzers roll through Red Square during the Victory Day military parade in downtown Moscow A WWII veteran being assisted to the Victory Day military parade marking the 74th anniversary of Russia's victory over Nazi Germany in the conflict from 1941 to 1945 Honour guards march during a Victory Day military parade with one waving to the crowds who gathered in Red Square Vladimir Putin, Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev (left) and Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu (right) attend a wreath-laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier Russian Yars RS-24 intercontinental ballistic missile systems roll through Red Square as soldiers stand to attention and line the route An Ural armoured vehicle of the Russian National Guard saluting guests and dignitaries during the parade A Russian veteran WWII arrives to attend the Victory Day military parade to celebrate 74 years since the victory in WWII Russian servicewomen march through Red Square during the Victory Day military parade in downtown Moscow Russian servicemen drive Yars RS-24 intercontinental ballistic missile systems during the Victory Day parade Drummers march in formation during a Victory Day military parade marking the 74th anniversary of the victory over Nazi Germany in Sevastopol in the disputed Crimea region Spectators take pictures on their smart phones of a T-34 Soviet-made tank driving past during the Victory Day parade in Sevastopol, Crimea Russian WWII veterans standing during the Victory Day military parade to celebrate 74 years since the victory in WWII in Red Square in Moscow The conflict between Kiev's forces and the separatists has cost some 13,000 lives over the last five years. Almost half of Russians said they planned to attend a Victory Day event this year, according to state pollster VTsIOM. Putin has sharply increased military spending over the nearly 20 years he has dominated Russian politics, handed the Russian military significant policy-making clout, and deployed Russian forces in Ukraine and Syria, stoking tensions with the West. As commander-in-chief, he has also at times donned military uniform himself and been filmed at the controls of a strategic bomber and on the conning tower of a submarine in photo opportunities designed to boost his man of action image. But this year's parade was notable for the lack of major show-stopping new weapons or pieces of military hardware. Some politicians in former Soviet republics and satellite states regard the parade as crude sabre-rattling by a resurgent Russia they say poses a threat to Europe's security. Russia dismisses such allegations as nonsense. Russian military servicemen march during the Victory Day parade on Red square in Moscow Some 13,000 troops and 130 pieces of military hardware paraded through the Russian capital to mark the end of hostilities during World War Two President Putin, (right to left in the background) Russia's Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev, Russian Supreme Court Chairman Vyacheslav Lebedev, Russia's Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu, and Chief of Staff of the Presidential Executive Office Anton Vaino during a ceremony to lay flowers at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier This is the brutal moment an antelope is eaten alive by cheetahs before they are chased away by a pack of hyenas who finish the job after stealing their meal. The footage, shot in the Masai Mara Safari Park, Kenya, begins with five hungry big cats who have captured their prey and proceed to feast on it. However, before they can fill their stomachs, three hyenas try their luck by aggressively chasing away the cheetahs in order to claim the beast as their own. While cheetahs are built for speed, with superior aerodynamics, they lack the strength of the more ferocious hyena, which explains why they didn't stay and fight. Five cheetahs feed on an antelope, while it is still alive, in the Masai Mara Safari Park in Kenya While dining, one of the hungry cheetahs spots hyenas nearby - and senses there could be trouble The cheetahs are right to fear the hyena interlopers. While the cat's body is built for speed, it lacks the necessary strength to generally win a fight with the more ferocious hyena The antelope feast catches the attention of the hyena trio. It is not uncommon for them and cheetahs to steal each other's food Seeing a glimpse of hope, the partially gored antelope attempts to escape after struggling onto its hooves. After a brief chase, the weakened and bloodied animal is tackled to the ground, whereupon the hyenas waste no time tearing away at its flesh. The scene of nature at its rawest was witnessed by Dmitry Kedrov, who travelled from Saratov, Russian Federation, to Kenya in March. The 56-year-old doctor said: 'All those present watched with interest, marvelling at the life force of the antelope. 'I understood that we became involuntary witnesses of the struggle for survival - the so-called "circle of life".' When the hyenas disrupt the meal, the cheetahs decide to flee immediately - at which point the stricken antelope sees its chance to escape The partially eaten antelope struggles to its feet before trying to flee. Usually, hyenas feed on animals killed by other predators Spanish treasure that predates the arrival of Columbus by 200 years has been found in a US national park. The two coins, one minted in Madrid in 1660 and the other made around the 1200s, were found lying on the floor at Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, Utah. Their presence in the desert remains unexplained and no information has been released about whether they were found with other artifacts. Spanish explorers arrived in Mexico in the 1500s and began exploring north, although there is no record of them being in America at the time the coins were made. Spanish treasure that predates the arrival of Columbus by 200 years has been found in a US national park. (Pictured) The oldest coin found, which has been tentatively dated to the 1200s A map showing the location of Glen Canyon National Recreation Area in Utah, US How did 1200s Spanish coins end up in a remote Utah canyon? Left by settlers or explorers This is the most exciting theory as it suggests Spanish settlers could have been in the area as much as 500 years earlier than currently known. However it is regarded by experts as extremely unlikely, while Spain controlled large swathes of the Southern and Western United States until the 19th century they did not establish a serious presence until 1519 onwards. Christopher Columbus set foot in the Americas in 1492. At present the first presence is recorded in 1765 with the Spanish expedition led by Juan Antonio de Rivera. However, the coins could record a previously undocumented earlier expedition as one dates back to the 1200s Traded with a native American tribe There is also a suggestion that the coins may have been traded with a native American tribe that then transported them to the area. Christopher Columbus reached the Americas in 1492, although other explorers had arrived in the Caribbean beforehand. It is possible the coins were traded with a native American tribe which traded them with others before they were transported to, and eventually lost, in Utah. This also seems highly unlikely. Brought to America long after they were minted It is also possible that the old coins were actually brought to the Americas long after they were minted. Despite both being made in Spain, one in the 1660s and the second in the 1200s, it is possible they were kept in Spain and transported to the new colonies much later. After Columbus arrived in 1492, Spaniard settlers began to arrive. When moving to the Americas they took all their possessions with them including - quite possibly - these coins. Dropped by a tourist? Archaeologists also aren't ruling out the theory that the coins were dropped by a tourist - as they were found among litter. This could be the more plausible theory as old coins were a favored souvenir for soldiers returning from the Middle East and in the two World Wars. With such different minting dates it also seems unlikely that they were in circulation in Spain at the same time. Advertisement Archaeologist Glen Harmon, from the national park service, said: 'A visitor was hiking in one of the canyons around here and he found these two strange things.' He took them home and, after realizing they were old Spanish coins, returned them to the park. 'Based on the design we're very confident that one of the coins - the larger one - is called the 16 maravedi. 'Experts we were talking to identified it as being minted in Madrid, based on its marks, probably in 1662 or 1663, which puts it in the reign of Philip IV. 'The other coin - and we haven't got a confirmation back on this yet - looks like it might be something dating from the mid-to-late 13th-century.' It's a mystery how such old coins have turned up in an area that wasn't visited by Spanish explorers until 1776. However, archaeologists are working on four main theories. They may have been left by early Spanish settlers or explorers, traded with native American tribes possibly in Mexico and then lost in the canyon, or someone brought a really old coin to the continent. However Dr Rory Naismith, lecturer in Medieval British History at King's College London, speculated that the coins may have been dropped by a modern collector. 'It would be very strange, in a genuine early modern deposit, to have coins from such widely separated periods,' he said. 'These would not have been in circulation at the same time in Spain. With no further context, it is more likely that they are a modern loss: Basically dropped by a coin collector. 'This is not necessarily as unlikely as it sounds. A 19th-century shipwreck off the south coast of England was found to be full of ancient and medieval coins from the Mediterranean. 'Old coins were also a favored souvenir for soldiers returning from the Middle East and in the two World Wars.' If the coins were dropped by early Spanish settlers, archaeologist Harmon said that's really exciting as there is little documentation of early Spanish settlement. 'The earliest Spanish presence in the Glen Canyon area is 1776 when Father Atanasio Dominguez and Father Silvestre Velez de Escalante came through. 'But they were nowhere near the area where these coins were found, that we know of.' 'Does this point to an early Spanish presence that is unknown or really poorly documented? That's one possibility.' However, it's also possible that the coins were traded with a native American tribe and then later lost at the canyon. 'That would also be really cool just to see that kind of connection between the early Spanish and native Americans at that time,' said Harmon. But instead the old coins may have been brought across the Atlantic long after they were minted. 'If that really is a 13th-century coin, that does not indicate 13th-century Spanish were over here,' said Harmon. A second coin discovered in the park, minted in Madrid, was likely made in 1662 or 1663 Christopher Columbus led the first major Spanish expedition to the Americas, which went to Caribbean islands and the coastline of Central America, shortly before Europeans began heading to the area in the 1500s 'That indicates that someone brought over a coin that was really old even then.' A final theory is that the coins were dropped by a tourist. As they were found among litter archaeologists aren't ruling it out, although they said that it seems unlikely. Columbus set sail for the Americas on August 3, 1492, firing the starting gun for European colonization of the area. The first Europeans are recorded in Utah as part of the 1765 Spanish expedition led by explorer Juan Antonio de Rivera. He claimed the area for Spain and found the Colorado river. Then in 1776, Franciscan priests led by Escalante and Dominguez came through as they tried to find a route from Santa Fe to California, and then came back after their trip was unsuccessful. In the early 1800s fur trappers looking for new hunting grounds show up in the area, and Salt Lake City is founded by Jim Bridger. However, these coins may come from a previously undocumented expedition. There were gold deposits along the Colorado river at this time, and an interest in finding a route to California, leaving scope for a possible further expedition. The coins were found near the Halls Crossing Marina on Lake Powell. However, the exact location is being kept secret by park officials until they can check there for more artifacts. The park is concerned about metal detectorists coming there to search for treasure, despite this activity being prohibited within its boundaries. The treasure was found at Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, Utah, in one of the gorges. It was picked up off the ground by a visitor Islamic State terrorist who tried to burn down a Melbourne Mosque have angrily lashed out at a jury after a guilty verdict was called. Abdullah Chaarani, 28, Ahmed Mohamed, 26, and Hatim Moukhaiber, 30, appeared in court on Thursday charged with crimes over the burning of the Imam Ali Islamic Centre at Fawkner on December 11, 2016. The jury found the trio guilty and when the verdict was called out family members reacted badly to the news. Hatim Moukhaiber, 30, (pictured) was arrested on Wednesday night and appeared in court on Thursday Abdullah Chaarani, 28, (pictured) was found guilty on following his attack on the Mosque in 2016 'What are you doing? You dogs,' an older woman yelled at the jury before being asked to leave. Moukhaiber took it upon himself to also yell across the court calling the police and jury 'oppressors and dogs', ABC News reported. The court was closed shortly following the outbursts. Mohamed and Moukhaiber told the court they had no involvement in the hate crime attack, while Chaarani argued that he was only part of a protest, advocacy or dissent, and not terrorism. During the trial, prosecutor Nicholas Robinson QC argued Chaarani's involvement was terrorism because the Shia mosque was targeted to intimidate Shia Muslims. 'It is a clear indication that those who attacked the mosque and destroyed it were branding it as action ... supported by Islamic State,' Mr Robinson told the court. Chaarani and Mohamed were also found guilty of attempting to commit a terrorist act over a failed first attempt to attack the mosque on November 25 the same year. In the early hours of that fateful morning, the trio wrote on the mosque 'Islamic State' in both English and Arabic. They also set parts of it on fire causing $1.5 million in damage, ABC News reported. The trio wrote on the mosque 'Islamic State' in both English and Arabic (pictured) CCTV footage played in court and showed the trio spraying 'Islamic State' on the Mosque and setting it on fire CCTV footage played in court at the time of the trios arrest showed Chaarani spray painting 'Islamic State' on the walls while Mohamed entered the building while carrying a white plastic container and car tyre. Moukhaiber was seen following Mohamed with another fire and it is believed they lit the tyres on fire before running out. On November 25 that year, Chaarani and Mohamed tried to set fire to rugs at the mosque but the fire fizzled out. Mr Robinson said the trio returned on December 11 to complete their mission of destroying their mosque as they arrived with a 20 litre container of petrol, news.com.au reported. 'They tried to set it on fire. They failed. So they came back two-and-a-bit weeks later armed with a lot more petrol and more things to make it burn,' he told the court. Mohamed's lawyer John Kelly told the court that it is not his client who appears in the security footage no 'matter how many times you view' it. Moukhaiber's representation Felicity Gerry said the Mosque was constantly targeted and said there were other suspects with 'large builds, shave heads and beards', like her client who could be seen in the CCTV footage. The three men will be sentenced at a later date. Israel's Iron Dome missile defences were breached after a barrage of nearly 700 rockets overwhelmed it, Hamas claimed, raising questions over the effectiveness of the system. At the weekend around 690 missiles were launched into Israel over the course of two days, leaving four civilians dead and injuring nearly 200 people. But of the hundreds of projectiles fired into the country, the Iron Dome only intercepted 240, according to Haaretz. Now security experts in Israel are questioning why the Iron Dome was not more successful in intercepting more projectiles launched at civilian targets. Islamic Jihad and Hamas's military wing boasted its new tactic 'overcame' Israel's defence system with this onslaught of rockets. Iron Dome anti-missile system firing interception missiles as rockets are launched from Gaza towards Israel as seen from the city of Ashkelon on Sunday Missiles fired from Israel's Iron Dome air defence system, designed to intercept and destroy incoming short-range rockets and artillery shells, in the southern Israeli town of Sderot on Saturday Abu Obeida, spokesman for Hamas's Izz ad-Din al-Qassam Brigades, claimed in a social media post that by firing 'dozens of missiles in one single burst' the group achieved victory. He wrote: 'The Qassam Brigades, thanks to God, succeeded in overcoming the so-called Iron Dome by adopting the tactic of firing dozens of missiles in one single burst. 'The high intensity of fire and the great destructive ability of the missiles that were introduced by the Qassam [Brigades] succeeded in causing great losses and destruction to the enemy.' The number of Israeli civilians killed in the two-day over the weekend conflict was only one fewer than during 2014's Operation Protective Edge, which lasted two months and saw Palestinian factions launch 4,500 missiles into Israeli cities, The Jerusalem Post reports. A missile fired from Israel's Iron Dome air defence system intercepts a rocket fired from Gaza on on Sunday, but hundreds of other projectiles made it through the defence system and stuck civilian areas Smoke billows from a targeted neighbourhood in Gaza City during an Israeli airstrike on the Hamas-run Palestinian enclave on Sunday Major General Yaakov Amidror, a former national security adviser and retired head of the Military Intelligence's Research Department, admitted short range rockets were able to exploit gaps in the Iron Dome. He told The Jerusalem Post: 'We don't have enough time to intercept it.' Uzi Rubin, one of the pioneers of Israel's earliest attempts at missile defences, told the newspaper it appears that the Palestinians 'tried to tax the system as much as they could, but the system as a whole held well'. However despite the casualties suffered, the Israeli Israel Defense Force claimed the system was not overwhelmed. Major Tom Scott, a commander of an Iron Dome battery in southern Israel, told The Times of Israel the missile defence system is capable of intercepting 'many different threats', including 'large barrages or short-range rockets or rockets fired at high altitude or at low altitude'. In response to the rocket launches Israel launched their own attacks, killing 22 Palestinians including two pregnant woman and a baby. The Iron Dome anti-missile project was first installed in 2011 near Beersheba and is a mobile all-weather air defence system. It is designed to intercept and destroy short-range rockets and artillery shells fired from distances of 2.5 miles to 43 miles away when aimed at populated areas. The support and gifts the Prince of Wales gave former bishop Peter Ball, who sexually abused 18 young men in his care, after Ball's police caution for gross indecency was 'misguided', a report has concluded. The scathing analysis of abuse allegations at the Church of England accused the church of of 'putting its own reputation above the needs of victims and survivors' by offering secrecy and protection for child abusers which allowed them to 'hide in plain sight' for decades, despite damning allegations against them. Ball, who enjoyed a decades-long friendship with Charles even after he accepted a police caution, was described as one example of how a senior member of the Anglican church 'was able to sexually abuse vulnerable teenagers and young men for decades', the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse (IICSA) report found. It concluded abusers were backed by support from senior colleagues which was 'rarely extended to victims'. The Prince of Wales also revealed in evidence read out to an inquiry today Ball told him he had quit his job over an 'indiscretion'. Pictured: Prince Charles and Ball in 1992 Other key findings from the IICSA report The 260-page report found the Church of England was marked by 'clericalism and tribalism' which offered protection to offenders, while showing little support for victims. Additionally: - Ball's 'Give A Year To God' scheme was completely unmonitored by the diocese, allowing Ball to target and offend against men and boys under the guise of religious practice. - Neil Todd, one of Ball's victims, was 'seriously failed' by the church, after they appeared to turn a blind eye to his allegations. Nothing constructive was done after concerns were reported to the church, dismissing Ball's behaviour as 'trivial and insignificant' and 'displaying callous indifference' to Mr Todd's complaints. He killed himself later, aged 38 - only then was the matter reported to police. - The CPS missed an opportunity to charge Ball with offences in 1992. He was initially cautioned for one offence of gross indecency at a time when he could have been charged with several others based on allegations he would go on to plead guilty to in 2015. - Lord Carey, Archbishop of Canterbury in 1992, was found to have suppressed the truth about Ball. Describing his conduct as a failure of leadership, the report found Lord Carey 'equivocated throughout the responses to allegations about Ball, seeming frequently to do the wrong thing when there was a choice to be made'. He promised an investigation into the allegations which failed to materialise. - The report said Lord Carey showed compassion only for Ball, adding: 'Almost every aspect of his decision-making regarding Peter Ball indicates poor judgment and a failure to recognise the appalling experiences of Ball's victims.' It said he should not have attempted to intervene on the allegations by writing to the Chief Constable of Gloucestershire Constabulary to downplay allegations. - Lord Carey failed to take action, on behalf of the church, following Ball's 1992 caution. No adequate explanation was provided to the inquiry. - Ball's name was not included on a so-called caution list, warning bishops of concerns about his behaviour. It meant when he sought a return to ministry, no red flag was raised. - Upon his return to ministry, the Church failed to undertake any form of risk assessment, meaning he was able to go into schools 'cloaked with the respectability and authority of the Church' - despite allegations of his conduct around schoolboys. - 'Several highly prominent individuals' were described as having 'rushed' to support Ball after his arrest in 1992, despite not knowing all of the facts or the allegations. - The report acknowledged that the Church had issued an 'unconditional apology to victims and survivors', but said many considered it to be 'unconvincing'. - The most recent Clergy Discipline Measure, which is designed to deal with abuse allegations, remains 'flawed' and is 'inappropriate' due to it not providing an adequate route to resolving safeguarding. Advertisement It said Charles' actions - in speaking about Ball with the then-Archbishop of Canterbury and a member of Lambeth Palace, and the Duchy of Cornwall buying a property to rent to Ball and his brother - were 'misguided'. 'His actions, and those of his staff, could have been interpreted as expressions of support for Peter Ball and, given the Prince of Wales' future role within the Church of England, had the potential to influence the actions of the Church,' the report added. Prince Charles has insisted he was 'deceived' by Ball in the course of their long friendship, which included the heir to the throne sending money to the disgraced clergyman, and Ball speaking at the funeral of the father of the Duchess of Cornwall. Speaking today a Clarence House spokesman said: 'It remains a matter of deep regret to the prince that he, along with many others, was deceived by Peter Ball over so many years. 'As he made clear in his voluntary witness statement to the inquiry, at no time did he bring any influence to bear on the actions of the Church or any other relevant authority. 'His thoughts remain with victims of the abuse suffered over many years.' One of Ball's victims, who wished to remain anonymous, said: 'Throughout all of this Prince Charles has tried to distance himself from Ball and play down their close friendship, the nature of which can be seen in letters disclosed to the inquiry. 'To say that he was simply misguided in continuing that friendship, even after he was made aware of Ball's police caution, seems to be letting him off rather lightly. He must have been fully aware of the power and influence that his support would bring. 'I welcome the work of the inquiry but I can't help but feel that we will never know the full truth and so those who did contribute to the cover-up may never be properly held to account.' Prince Charles was friends with the ex-Bishop of Lewes for over two decades after he accepted a caution for gross indecency. He only cut ties with him after he was convicted of sexually abusing 18 young men aged 17 to 25 over 30 years in 2015. The convicted Bishop, 86, was released last year after serving half his sentence behind bars. In evidence statements to IICSA The Prince of Wales said he was 'deceived' by Ball. It came to light he had written a letter to Ball promising to 'see off' a 'horrid man' - but he told the inquiry he 'cannot shed any light' on the person to whom he was referring. In written evidence he refused to elaborate on a letter he wrote to Ball at the time of sexual misconduct claims, telling him: 'I will see off this horrid man if he tries anything again.' Ball had told the Prince a single accuser was behind allegations that led to him having to quit as the Bishop of Gloucester. In a letter to the Independent Inquiry into Child Sex Abuse, the Prince said Ball had told him the complaint against him was false and had arisen from someone who had a grudge against him and was 'persecuting' him. In extracts from one letter between the Prince and Ball, Charles says: 'I can't bear it that the frightful and terrifying man is on the loose and doing his worst.' The former Bishop of Lewes, 86, (pictured in 2015) sexually abused 18 men aged 17-25 during the 1980s and '90s. He was released last year after serving half his sentence behind bars Victims' lawyer slams 'damning indictment' Richard Scorer, a lawyer at Slater and Gordon and who acts for a number of victims, said: 'We may never know the true harm caused by Charles' intervention and support for Ball, but welcome the fact that the inquiry did not shy away from highlighting his role in this scandal. 'This report is a damning indictment of years of church cover-up, facilitation of child abuse and denigration and dismissal of victims. 'It rightly criticises senior church figures for serious failings, but it also exposes alarming cultural and structural problems in the Church of England.' Bishop Peter Hancock, the Church of England's safeguarding lead, said: 'The report states that the Church of England should have been a place which protected all children and supported victims and survivors and the inquiry's summary recognises that it failed to do this. 'It is absolutely right that the Church at all levels should learn lessons from the issues raised in this report. 'We are immensely grateful to survivors for their courage in coming forward to IICSA to share their experiences of how they were treated by the Church, knowing how difficult this would have been - their testimonies have made shocking and uncomfortable listening.' Advertisement But in his letter the Prince, who said he regrets having been 'deceived' by Ball, said: 'I regret that I am unable to shed any light on references made in a letter dated 23rd March 1997 to a 'horrid man' or a 'frightful and terrifying man'. 'This seems to be a manner of speaking in the midst of a long letter written more than twenty years ago. 'I do recall that Peter Ball felt that numerous individuals, including his critics in the media, were doing all in their power to disadvantage him unfairly. 'I suspect, but cannot be certain, that the reference is to this issue in some way.' The Prince says he did not know about the nature of the complaint against Ball and had not appreciated the meaning of a caution - the acceptance of guilt. A lawyer for some of the former bishop's victims has said it was difficult to see that 'as anything other than willful blindness'. Ball had previously boasted of being a confidant of Charles, and his court case heard that a member of the royal family was among a host of public figures who supported him when he avoided charges in 1993. Charles admitted to the inquiry that he had sent Ball and his brother, also a Bishop, gifts of money. He wrote: 'I recall that Peter Ball told me that following his resignation as Bishop of Gloucester he would lose the house in which he lived and that, as a consequence, both he and his brother Michael would become homeless. 'He told me that their monastic vows meant they had very little money. In this context, I occasionally sent the brothers small gifts of money, as I do for many people in need, and Pete Ball's interest in becoming a tenant of a Duchy of Cornwall property then arose. 'A significant part of the Duchy's business is in arranging and managing leases for properties and I mentioned the situation of the Ball brothers to the Duchy, as I do for others from time to time.' Today the report focused on evidence against the Diocese of Chichester and against Ball, and found 'a number of serious failings' following allegations of child sexual abuse dating back more than 40 years. IICSA found claims of abuse were not handled adequately by the church, lacked urgency or appreciation of their seriousness and allowed the church to prioritise its own image above its responsibilities to victims. One of Ball's victims, Neil Todd killed himself aged 38 after being 'seriously failed' by the church, which 'discounted Ball's conduct as trivial and insignificant' while displaying 'callous indifference' to Mr Todd's complaints. Reverend Graham Sawyer, a victim of Ball's, criticised Prince Charles for not giving evidence in person Graham Sawyer, a victim of Balls who has agreed to lift his anonymity, said the reports conclusion that Charles was merely misguided was kind to the Prince, but said Charles should have attended the hearing in person. He told MailOnline: I felt his failure to turn up raised serious questions about the credibility of the Prince of Wales in all of this. I think hes done himself no favours by hiding behind a solicitors statement and not attending IICSA. For those of us involved, including myself, who had to travel long distances to attend and go through the trauma of a public questioning, this was not pleasant. He could have got in the car and actually attended. It would have been nice if hes said in person, how deeply sorry he was for his actions. The report also criticised the former Archbishop of Canterbury, Lord Carey, who showed 'compassion' to Ball and displayed his 'overt support' for him despite there being no justification. Victims were 'disbelieved and dismissed' by those in authority at the Diocese of Chichester, which received the most reports of child sexual abuse in any of the 42 dioceses in England and Wales during half a century. In a statement to the inquiry Prince of Wales denied he tried to influence the police probe into Ball, as he also revealed the bishop told him he had quit his job over an 'indiscretion'. In another letter from the Prince to Ball in 1995 - two years after Ball's caution - the future king said he wished he could 'do more'. Peter Ball was a well-known figure in the church at the time of his 1992 arrest, for eschewing ecclesiastical robes, dressing as a monk, and sleeping on the floor He said: 'I feel so desperately strongly about the monstrous wrongs that have been done to you and the way you have been treated.' Charles also said he had been told by the then Archbishop of Canterbury George Carey the church was looking at bringing Ball back into public ministry. In the 1995 letter he said it was 'appalling' that the Archbishop, now Lord Carey, had 'gone back on what he told me'. He said it was clear the Archbishop was 'frightened of the press - what he calls 'public perception'.' Another letter from Charles the following year referred to the process of getting a Duchy of Cornwall property for Ball and his brother Michael, Bishop of Truro. It said: 'I long to see you both settled somewhere that suits you and gives you peace and tranquility - and not too far from here so you can come over more easily.' The pair rented a Duchy property between 1997 and 2011. Charles's letter to the inquiry added: 'My heart goes out to the victims of abuse and I applaud their courage as they rebuild their lives and, so often, offer invaluable support to others who have suffered. Identical twin brothers Michael Ball (L) and Peter Ball (R were Bishops of JArrow and Lewes respectively in the early 1990s Former Archbishop of Canterbury Lord George Carey, seen here giving evidence to IICSA, was criticised by an internal C of E report for failing to pass on allegations about Ball to police In 2017 an internal Church of England report by Dame Moira Gibb concluded the church 'colluded' with Ball, who was jailed in 2015 for historic sex offences against young men. It was highly critical of then-Archbishop George Carey, who in 1992 did not pass on to police six letters alleging wrongdoing by Ball during a police investigation. After Ball was cautioned in 1993, Lord Carey did not add Ball's name to a list of those whose suitability for ministry was questionable, and he helped reinstate Ball in the church, the report found. After Ball's conviction in 2015 Archbishop Welby commissioned a review and upon its publication last year he asked George Carey to resign as honorary assistant bishop in Oxford. Lord Carey resigned but later criticised the intervention in a Christmas letter to friends. He wrote of the 'shocking insistence by the Archbishop that I should stand down from ministry 'for a season' for mistakes he believes were made 24 years ago when bishop Peter Ball abused young potential priests.' He added: 'His decision is quite unjust and eventually will be judged as such.' Today Professor Alexis Jay, inquiry chairman, said: 'For years, the Diocese of Chichester failed victims and survivors of child sexual abuse by prioritising its own reputation above their welfare. 'Not only were disclosures of abuse handled inadequately by the Church when they came to light, its response was marked by secrecy and a disregard for the seriousness of abuse allegations. 'Peter Ball is one example of how a senior member of the clergy was able to sexually abuse vulnerable teenagers and young men for decades. 'The public support he received is reflective of the Church's culture at the time - a support that was rarely extended to his victims.' Ball, now in his late 80s, accepted a caution for one count of gross indecency in 1992 and resigned due to ill health. It was not until 22 years later that he finally admitted his crimes, and was jailed in 2015 for sexually abusing 18 young men over three decades. The report also found Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) missed an opportunity to charge Ball with a slew of offences in 1992, which he subsequently admitted in 2015. He was released in February 2017 after serving half of his 32-month sentence behind bars. He was deemed too ill to give evidence to the inquiry in person, but submitted a lengthy statement in which he said he had got to know Charles better after his divorce from Diana, Princess of Wales, and that their relationship 'was one of support and respect'. 'I wish I could do more': What the prince wrote to his friend the bishop as allegations swirled around Sept 1993, Ball to Charles Life continues to be pretty nasty for me for, it seems that my accusers still want to continue their malicious campaign. Luckily they are beginning to show some of their fraudulent plans. Dec 1994, Charles to Ball I saw the Archbishop the other day and he told me he is trying to bring you back to a public ministry. I do hope this will be all right and suit you, if and when it happens.... Feb 1995, Charles to Ball I wish I could do more. I feel so desperately strongly about the monstrous wrongs that have been done to you and the way you have been treated. It's appalling that the Archbishop has gone back on what he told me, before Xmas, that he was hoping to restore you to some form of Ministry in the Church. I suspect you are absolutely right - it is due to fear of the media....If it is any consolation, the Archbishop has written me a letter (between you and me) in which it is also clear that he is frightened of the press - what he calls 'public perception', which in fact, perception of events and characters based entirely on lies, invention, speculation and sensation. Dec 1995, Ball to Charles The young man who accused me keeps on harassing. The last was a few weeks back with a fax, threatening to say more, when he has agreed not to and ending with the words 'Your never forgiving brother in Christ'. That is both vile and blasphemous and oh that the police and CPS had seen and known from the beginning the nature of the young man. How I wish the Archbishop or someone would tell them. April 1996, Ball to Charles And I can honestly share the pain of it all having tried to break the crippling and unchristian powers of the ecclesiastical set up, and then being deserted in my hour of need. June 1996, Charles to Ball ...I am so glad that [X] has been in touch as I requested. I pray the Duchy will be able to find something suitable for you both in due course, but it may take a little time to locate it! I long to see you both settled somewhere that suits you and gives you peace and tranquility - and not too far from here so you can come over more easily... March 1997, Charles to Ball [X] tells me that your house has been bought successfully it looks rather nice and I only hope the rent won't be too bad! I can't bear it that the frightful, terrifying man is on the loose again and doing his worst... I was visiting the vicar... and we were enthusing about you and your brother and he then told me that he had heard that this ghastly man was up to his dastardly tricks again.... I'll see off this horrid man if he tries anything again. Aug 2001, Charles to Ball I do however firmly believe that one day people will be forced to signing your resignation deed but, as you have been advised, I daresay that the establishment will close ranks and you will get nowhere. But how outrageous that now these people say sorry - and only in private.... Dec 2001, Charles to Ball I saw [ ] the other day...he mentioned that you were thinking of going to the Archbishop and seemed a bit anxious about it... I daresay by now you will have approached the Archbishop but in your letter you so kindly asked me whether I had any objections - something which you certainly didn't need to do. The only thing I would say is that unless you really need to go to the Archbishop of Canterbury - for financial reasons particularly - I would have thought it might be better to let sleeping dogs lie... Oct 2009, Ball to Charles I am now nearly a broken man, because of what the Church has put me through after seventeen years of serving in retirement. They have smashed me with the bully of an assessor -...from a Child Protection Officer and no pastoral care, except two nice letters from the Archbishop. Suddenly, I am not allowed to baptise, or go to any parish without informing the Church Warden that I had a caution all those years back... Ball included a letter that set out he was being risk assessed. May 2010, Ball to Charles ...the horror that has come to me from the Bishop of Chichester with the Archbishop's obvious hand in it. I have been told that I may not minister at all when we move, nor may I worship anywhere without signing a Declaration for the Protection of Children. May 2012, Ball to Charles Writes to say that the police are re-opening the investigation and are to question him. He says: 'I thought it had been fully examined twenty years ago.' July 2012, Ball to Charles Life is 'almost unbearable. I am being pursued and persecuted. In ways which it would not be discreet to enlarge on, though I am sure that you can guess their source and virulence'. Dec 2012, Ball to Charles Ball wrote to thank the Prince of Wales for phoning him, writing in the letter that the affair of twenty years ago had been 'stirred up' again by Lambeth. Advertisement Charles also said, in the six-page statement read by counsel to the inquiry Fiona Scolding, that he had not appreciated the meaning of the caution and that at the time the word of a bishop was generally seen as trustworthy. He said he did not realise the truth of what had gone on until Ball's conviction, adding that his main source of information until then had been the bishop himself. Dismissing any suggestion he had ever tried to interfere in the police investigation into Ball, Charles said it was possible his name had been taken 'in vain'. In his statement, dated July 10 2018, Charles said: 'At no stage did I ever seek to influence the outcome of either of the police investigations into Peter Ball and nor did I instruct or encourage my staff to do so.' Ball, the former bishop of Lewes and Gloucester, was too ill to give evidence in person, the inquiry heard. But in a statement he referred to his relationship as having been one of 'support and respect'. Ball said: 'I would strongly resist any suggestion that in some way I could bring pressure to bear on him to act on my behalf and have certainly never made a request for him to do so.' Last year Richard Scorer, a specialist abuse lawyer at Slater and Gordon who represents a number of Ball's victims, said Charles's explanation that he was not aware of the meaning of a caution left his clients 'dissatisfied'. He said: 'Prince Charles had access to the best legal advice that money can buy and, as a man in his position, a particular responsibility to check the facts. It is difficult to see his failure to do so as anything other than wilful blindness. 'His evidence, together with that of Lord Carey, the then archbishop of Canterbury, and other establishment figures who have given evidence this week, will do little to dissuade survivors from the conclusion that the British establishment aided and protected Ball and even now have failed to give a transparent account of their actions.' Charles said in the six-page letter that it was his 'deep regret' that he and others had been 'misled' by Ball. Elsewhere in his evidence, Charles said Ball had been invited to his home to give holy communion a number of times, from 1993. He said: 'Peter Ball occasionally wrote to me in respect of private, often spiritual, matters.' Referring to his knowledge of the complaint against Ball, he added that in the 1980s and 1990s there was 'a presumption that people such as Bishops could be taken at their word and, as a result of the high office they held, were worthy of trust and confidence'. He said at the time 'there was on my part a presumption of good faith'. The inquiry examined how the Church of England handled allegations of sexual abuse and has previously focused on the Diocese of Chichester - where Ball and several other convicted paedophile priests once officiated. Ball accepted a caution for one count of gross indecency in 1993 and resigned due to ill health. Prince Charles has denied he tried to influence a police probe into the disgraced bishop Peter Ball, in a written statement heard at a child sex abuse inquiry today Prince Charles' full statement to the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse Dear Professor Jay 1. Thank you for inviting me to offer context on how I came to know former Bishop Peter Ball and on my dealings with him over the years, to assist your important Inquiry. I want to begin by applauding your work to ensure that the abuse of children is properly investigated and appropriate measures are taken to ensure they are fully protected. That is why I am pleased, on this occasion, to offer the following information, which I have set out to the best of my recollection after the passage of 25 years. 2. Over the years I have had, and continue to have, many interactions with the Clergy of the Church of England and of other Faiths, often on a daily basis. Set in that context, I first became aware of Peter Ball sometime during the 1980s, when I heard him preach. At that time, he came across as an interesting and engaging person. He was later appointed Bishop of Gloucester, in 1992. Since he had become my local Diocesan Bishop, near my home in Gloucestershire, I attended his Installation. He gave an impressive Address, which brought him to my attention again. At the same time I recall becoming aware of Michael Ball (Peter Ball's brother) who was later appointed Bishop of Truro, to which I am also closely connected through the Duchy of Cornwall. Over the whole of my life, I have met countless senior Clergy who have been invited to preach and, on various occasions, I have myself invited them to give Holy Communion at my home. I extended such invitations to Peter Ball from time to time, starting in 1993. 3. As is well known, I maintain correspondence relationships with a great number of individuals. Peter Ball occasionally wrote to me in respect of private, often spiritual, matters. On each occasion I naturally replied as I believe that to be the polite thing to do, although there was often a significant delay on my part given other priorities which demanded my attention. My recollection is that these exchanges were normally instigated and driven by Peter Ball, in addition to a handful of telephone calls during the decades of our correspondence. Having refreshed my memory of our correspondence to try to help your Inquiry, I note this is borne out by the contents and dates of the letters in question. 4. With the significant passage of time, I cannot now recall with sufficient certainty when the following exchange took place and whether there was one particular conversation that concerned the reflections I offer below or more than one. 5. Peter Ball told me that he had been involved in some form of 'indiscretion', which prompted his resignation as my local Bishop at Gloucester. He emphasised that one individual, who I now understand to be Mr Neil Todd, had made a complaint to the Police; that the Police had investigated the matter; and that the Police and the Crown Prosecution Service had decided to take no action. This sequence of events seemed to support Mr Ball's claim that the complaint emanated from a single individual; that the individual bore a grudge against him and was 'persecuting' him; that the complaint was false; but that the individual had nonetheless profited from the complaint by selling his story to the newspapers. The matter was described by him as 'closed'. Peter Ball added that various people within the Church did not like him and had themselves used the complaint to curtail his ministry and force his resignation. When this exchange took place, I did not know about the nature of the complaint. 6. The true context and details of this complaint, and I now understand many others, against Peter Ball did not come to my attention until the time of Mr Ball's trial and conviction in 2015. My main source of information before this was Mr Ball himself, though I should add that I was so fully occupied by my public role that Mr Ball's situation was rarely at the front of my mind. As context, it seems important to say that in the 1980's and 1990's there was a presumption that people such as Bishops could be taken at their word and, as a result of the high office they held, were worthy of trust and confidence. That has changed over the years, as evidence has caused us all to be more challenging of what we hear and what we are told. But, at the time, there was on my part a presumption of good faith. I believe I was far from alone in taking this view. 7. I was certainly not aware at the time of the significance or impact of the caution that Peter Ball has accepted, or indeed sure if I was even told about it. Whilst I note that Peter Ball mentioned the word in a letter to me in October 2009, I was not aware until recently that a caution in fact carries an acceptance of guilt. I was aware that the Crown Prosecution Service had decided not to pursue a case against Mr Ball. This seemed to support Mr Ball's defence of his position set out in his letter. 8. I recall that Peter Ball told me that following his resignation as Bishop of Gloucester he would lose the house in which he lived and that, as a consequence, both he and his brother Michael would become homeless. He told me that their monastic vows meant they had very little money. In this context, I occasionally sent the brothers small gifts of money, as I do for many people in need, and Pete Ball's interest in becoming a tenant of a Duchy of Cornwall property then arose. A significant part of the Duchy's business is in arranging and managing leases for properties and I mentioned the situation of the Ball brothers to the Duchy, as I do for others from time to time. The details of the eventual rental were handled, as usual, by Duchy staff. I was aware of the transaction but did not assist with the selection of the house. Some time later, in 1997, Peter and Michael Ball became tenants of a Duchy property until early in 2011, when they moved on. Police investigations 9. At no stage did I ever seek to influence the outcome of either of the Police investigations into Peter Ball and nor did I instruct or encourage my staff to do so. 10. I understand from document ANG000021 that a member of Gloucestershire Police seems to recall that he 'came under pressure' in 1992 or 1993 which related in some way to some form of interest from myself and my staff in Peter Ball. This is untrue. Indeed, at the time of this Police investigation I had no knowledge of these particular matters. It follows, therefore, that I did not authorise - and could not have authorised - any such action. And nor would I have done. 11. Likewise, I have no recollection of any contact by one of my Personal Protection Officers or indeed any member of my staff with Gloucestershire Police. I was clear at the time, as I have remained clear, that the Police must be able to carry out their investigation in the proper manner without external pressure or influence. We have looked at our files and can find no record of any of these matters. It is always possible that my name was taken in vain, as can unfortunately happen from time to time. As I make clear elsewhere in this Statement, there is a gap between rumour and fact. 12. In a similar vein, I do not recall receiving a letter from Michael Ball in April 2013 as described by Detective Superintendent Carwyn Hughes (OHY000203). Having looked at our files we cannot find any record of such a letter. The occasional letters that I did receive from Michael Ball were of private and social nature and I am not aware of any interest from Sussex Police in this correspondence. Nevertheless, I have made available to you copies of the private correspondence received from Michael Ball, in case that could help your Inquiry in any way. I understand that a conversation took place between Sussex Police and the Metropolitan Police Royalty Protection team in 2013, and that Sussex Police informed the Metropolitan Police that they visited Peter Ball's home and removed items which included a letter sent from me. I believe the Metropolitan Police asked whether or not this letter was relevant to the inquiry. I further understand that the Metropolitan Police emphasised clearly that they were not enquiring about the investigation itself and specifically wished to avoid any appearance of influence over it. They wished only to establish the facts about the property that had been removed and its correct ownership. The Metropolitan Police were told that the letter in question was not relevant and that it was to be returned by Sussex Police to Peter Ball. The Church of England 13. Probably late in 1994 (although I cannot now be certain of the date) I recall seeing the then-Archbishop of Canterbury at an event and taking that opportunity to ask, among other issues, about Peter Ball as he had lately been my local Bishop. I remember the Archbishop was supportive of Peter Ball and thought him a good man and priest. I do not think we discussed any detail, though I recall that the Archbishop was perhaps thinking of 'trying to bring [Peter Ball] back to a public ministry' at some stage. I understood there were some complications, but these were not described. As this was clearly a matter for Church authorities, I took no personal position on it. 14. Other than this conversation with the then-Archbishop, I do not recall any specific conversations regarding Peter Ball, although I was aware that Mr Ball was himself keen to persuade the Church to 'restore [him] to some form of Ministry in the Church'. The general view of members of the Clergy who occasionally mentioned him to me was that he was a capable and well-liked priest. 15. The Inquiry has asked about a note made by Andrew Purkis, of Lambeth Palace, following a lunch he had with my then-Private Secretary, Richard Aylard, on 30th August 1994 (ACE003034). My Private Secretary meets regularly with members of the Archbishop of Canterbury's Office to discuss a range of matters. Having reviewed the document it is clear that the meeting took place in the normal course of business and was for the purpose of discussing matters other than Mr Ball. I cannot shed any light on what appears to be a brief mention of Mr Ball at the end of the meeting. I have no recollection of discussing the matter. I have also been shown a copy of my letter of 14th December 2001 addressed to Peter Ball. As far as I can recall, this letter conveyed that I could not assist Peter Ball in any approach he was thinking of making to the Archbishop to seek a return to public ministry. I recall Peter Ball repeating this request around this time and again some time later and my declining to assist. It follows therefore that I was not involved in 'any discussion with Lambeth Palace' on this matter. Contact with Institutions 16. You have asked about contact between myself and institutions in respect of Peter Ball between 1993 and 2015. To the best of my knowledge and belief I have dealt with these contacts in the information I have volunteered above, and I can only hope this will be of some assistance to you. 17. I have been shown an extract from an interview conducted by the Chair of the Church of England's Inquiry into Peter Ball last year, Dame Moira Gibb, with Elizabeth Hall of the Church of England, suggested there were some rumours of an interest from me in Peter Ball being given some alternative employment (INQ000682). I can confirm that this is untrue: not for the first time, and as the Gibb Inquiry concluded in respect of my contacts with Peter Ball over the years, there is a gap between rumour and fact. I did not seek any such roles for Mr Ball and did not ask others to do so on my behalf. 18. I regret that I am unable to shed any light on references made in a letter dated 23rd March 1997 to a 'horrid man' or a 'frightful and terrifying man'. This seems to be a manner of speaking in the midst of a long letter written more than twenty years ago. I do recall that Peter Ball felt that numerous individuals, including his critics in the media, were doing all in their power to disadvantage him unfairly. I suspect, but cannot be certain, that the reference is to this issue in some way. It of course needs to be read in the context of my understanding at the time, namely that Peter Ball had been falsely accused of a single offence (the nature of which was unknown to me) by an individual whom the relevant judicial authorities and many others had themselves not believed. Events later demonstrated beyond any doubt, to my deep regret, that I, along with many others, had been misled and the reverse was true. At the time, however, it would have followed that people seeking to disadvantage Peter Ball, including from gaining employment, were behaving unfairly. What I can say with certainty is that I did not express this view to anyone else or take any action associated with it. 19. In conclusion, I would like to state that, throughout my life, my position has occasionally brought me into contact with prominent people who have subsequently been accused of serious wrong-doing. Rather than rushing to private judgement, I have always taken the view that the judicial process should take its course. I am then able to ground my opinions in facts tested by law, rather than hearsay. In many cases, including two very prominent cases of false accusation last year, this has proved a sensible course. It follows that I ceased contact with Mr Ball once the judicial process had concluded and he was found guilty of serious offences against young people. My heart goes out to the victims of abuse and I applaud their courage as they rebuild their lives and, so often, offer invaluable support to others who have suffered. It remains a source of deep personal regret that I was one of many who were deceived over a long period of time about the true nature of Mr Ball's activities. That is why I wanted to volunteer the facts in this letter, which I believe to be true, in the hope that they might be able to help your important work. Yours sincerely DPA Advertisement Prayers at Highgrove and a friendship that lasted decades By Sam Greenhill for The Daily Mail, July 28, 2018 Peter Ball, who made his young victims roll in the snow naked before beating them until they bled, once described Prince Charles as a loyal friend. The pair had prayed together at Highgrove and exchanged more than 50 letters, many of them deeply spiritual. And even after his 'indiscretion' with a boy of 17, the bishop was given a Duchy of Cornwall house to live in, for which he thanked the 'wonderfully kind' prince. Yesterday Charles expressed deep regret that he had ever put his faith in Ball, saying he had been horribly deceived by the paedophile bishop. Charles said that in the 1980s, when he first knew him, and the 1990s, there was 'a presumption that people such as bishops could be taken at their word'. The former Bishop of Lewes (pictured in 2015, right), who previously boasted of being a confidant of Charles, sexually abused 18 young men over 30 years It is now believed that sadistic Ball preyed on more than 100 boys and men in a 20-year reign of abuse. Born in 1932, he went to Lancing College public school in West Sussex and Cambridge University before establishing a monastery in Gloucestershire with his twin brother, Michael. Ball showed 'favouritism' to novice monks, and targeted schools to deliver sermons. He was made Bishop of Lewes in 1977 and Bishop of Gloucester from 1992, during which time he handpicked 18 vulnerable victims to commit acts of 'debasement' in the name of religion. He would pray naked with them at the altar and encourage them to submit to beatings. At least five more victims were schoolchildren. As Bishop of Gloucester, Ball's diocese covered Charles's country home Highgrove, and the prince was among the guests at his enthronement. By now, he was one of the church's best known characters, refusing to wear the ceremonial purple of a bishop in favour of simple, monastic robes, sleeping on the floor and taking vows of celibacy. Eight months after the enthronement, Ball was arrested. Yesterday the prince recalled: 'Peter Ball told me he had been involved in some sort of 'indiscretion' which prompted his resignation as my local bishop.' In fact he had been horrifically abusing 16-year-old trainee monk Neil Todd, forcing him to perform sex acts as they lay naked in bed together, take ice-cold, early-morning showers while reading the Bible and stand side by side naked reciting psalms in front of a figure of Christ. Peter Ball pictured at Cheltenham racecourse Mr Todd was so tormented he eventually committed suicide aged 38 in 2012. In his letter to the Independent Inquiry into Child Sex Abuse, Charles said he was unaware of the true nature of the clergyman's behaviour until more than 20 years after allegations first surfaced. Ball got away with a police caution in March 1993 despite confessing his guilt. For his part, Charles said he had accepted Ball's claim that Mr Todd had borne a grudge and made false allegations. So Ball resumed his ministry, even officiating over communion at Highgrove. He was also provided with Manor Lodge, a pretty cottage on Charles's Duchy of Cornwall estate in the village of Aller, Somerset. Clarence House has been at great pains to say it was the Duchy of Cornwall, the private estate which funds the heir to the throne, and not Charles himself that had purchased the lodge that Ball rented. It subsequently emerged that police went easy on Ball in 1993 and cited his royal connections. In documents unearthed by the BBC, retired police detective Wayne Murdock is said to have discussed with Ball's legal team 'the need to prevent a scandal, especially as Peter was a frequent visitor to Sandringham and is friendly with Prince Charles'. It also emerged that the bishop's lawyers had claimed to have a 'letter of support from a member of the Royal Family', who was not named. It is unclear whether this could be the same letter as the one that emerged yesterday. Either way, no such letter was ever produced in any court hearings, and an official report found there was no evidence any royal had sought to intervene in the judicial process. But the mother of the trainee monk was scathing about Prince Charles allowing Ball to live on his Duchy estate. Speaking in 1998, she said of the bishop: 'He is pure evil, a beast, and he's hiding behind God. This is quite unbelievable. I don't know what Prince Charles thinks he is doing.' Yesterday Charles said he had always believed in allowing the judicial process to take its course 'rather than rushing to private judgement'. In 2006 Ball's status in royal circles was confirmed in spectacular style when he was invited to read the homily at the funeral of the father of Camilla Parker Bowles. He continued as a Church of England priest until 2010. But justice was slowly catching up with him. Police re-opened their investigation in 2012 after new allegations, and this time a flood of Ball's victims came forward. If Charles was anxious, that might explain why in 2013 a royal aide contacted the chief constable of Sussex Police to ask whether information gathered during its investigation could 'be embarrassing to Prince Charles or the monarchy in general'. Apparently they were reassured. In 2015, Ball's crimes were finally laid bare at the Old Bailey which heard shocking details of his reign of abuse. His trial heard he had been protected by 'Cabinet ministers, the Royal Family, MPs, JPs and a lord', not to mention the Church of England. The Church has since expressed its 'true sorrow' at its shocking failures. Ball, now 86, was released in February last year and lives a free man back in Aller, Somerset. Clarence House was quick to insist last night that he is definitely not living in any of Charles's properties. Hardline Brexiteer and former Cabinet minister Esther McVey revealed she would run to replace Theresa May as the Tory leadership battle burst into life today. The ex-Work and Pensions Secretary, who quit the Government in protest at the Prime Minister's Brexit handling in November, confirmed she would make a bid for the top in a radio interview this morning. It came after Cabinet minister David Gauke took a thinly-veiled swipe at rival leadership candidate Boris Johnson, warning the Tories 'to avoid the temptation' of becoming right-wing populists. As ministers from across the Brexit spectrum vie to replace Theresa May when she finally quits as Tory leader, the Justice Secretary said that such a change would leave Britain poorer and more divided and put the Union at risk. In an interview with TalkRadio Ms McVey, 51, said: 'I've always said quite clearly if I got enough support from colleagues then yes I would, and now people have come forward and I have got that support. 'So I will be going forward.' She said the Conservative Party needed a leader who 'believes in Brexit', and had 'belief in the opportunities' it could bring. Ms McVey said that Mrs May's departure should be handled in a 'dignified and graceful' way. 'We all know Theresa May is dutiful,' she said. 'She has worked for public service for many years.' The former television journalist, who is engaged to fellow Tory backbench Brexiteer Philip Davies, 47, is seen as an outsider in the leadership race, with odds currently 66/1. McVey, who previously had a romance with ex-minister Ed Vaizey, went public on her relationship with Mr Davies in March, in an interview that prompted speculation she was clearing a path for a leadership bid. He has two children from a previous marriage while Ms McVey has none. Hardline Brexiteer and former Cabinet minister Esther McVey revealed she would run to replace Theresa May as the Tory leadership battle burst into life today Esther McVey at the Pink Ribbon Ball in 2002 while working as a TV presenter on shows like GMTV, How Do they Do That? .Today she announced she would run to be Tory leader after Theresa May The former television journalist, who is engaged to fellow Tory backbench Brexiteer Philip Davies, 47, is seen as an outsider in the leadership race, with odds currently 66/1 Although there is no leadership contest under way, a lack of confidence in Theresa May among Conservative MPs has prompted Rory Stewart, Andrea Leadsom and Ms McVey to declare their candidacies. A series of high-profile media appearances from Jeremy Hunt, Michael Gove and Dominic Raab in the last week have also buoyed speculation that they will run. Boris Johnson, Sajid Javid, Steve Baker and Amber Rudd have also been tipped as potential leaders. Under current Conservative Party rules, the Prime Minister is free from an internal challenge to her leadership until December 2019, but could step down before then. Remainer minister Mr Gauke meanwhile made a pitch to be the centre-ground candidate in any upcoming leadership fight. In an interview with the BBC this morning said that politicians must 'avoid giving glib answers' to complex questions, in a concerted pitch for the middle ground. He added: 'We have to avoid the temptation to be a populist party. Amber Rudd sidesteps questions about Remainer leadership bid Work and Pensions Secretary Amber Rudd has sidestepped questions as to whether she would be a leadership contender when Theresa May steps down. Asked following a speech in London to employers whether she intended to throw her hat in the ring, Remainer Ms Rudd said: 'I feel incredibly fortunate to be in this role. 'There is a really important job to do about making sure we get Universal Credit right.' She added: 'I am committed to the DWP.' Ms Rudd said she believed Theresa May should be given the time to meet her commitment to complete the first stage of Brexit before standing down as Prime Minister. 'We need to hold our nerve and allow her to do that. Brexit is a complicated procedure and the numbers in the House of Commons make that even harder,' she said. 'But I believe that she has a plan now, hopefully to do a deal with Labour, if not to bring forward indicative votes. We need to back her on that.' Ms Rudd, who was a leading Remain campaigner in the referendum, expressed concern about the consequences of Britain leaving without a deal. 'I am concerned with the economic consequences of leaving without a deal. As part of having a strong economy we need to have a deep and special partnership (with the EU),' she said. Advertisement 'That would narrow our support, narrow our base and result in policies that I don't think would be good for the United Kingdom.' Although he is not often mentioned in lists of potential successors to Mrs May, Mr Gauke's comments will be seen as an intervention in the leadership contest to come after the PM steps down, as she has said she will once the first phase of Brexit is complete. One of the Cabinet's most prominent opponents of a no-deal Brexit, his comments are likely to be interpreted as a caution to the party not to choose a leader from among advocates of the hardest forms of EU withdrawal, like Boris Johnson or Dominic Raab. Mr Johnson, the bookies' favourite to succeed the Prime Minister, is the most popular Tory MP with the party's rank-and-file and most recognisable to the general public. But he is less popular with Tory MPs, with Remainers and moderates gearing up to provide a 'stop Boris' to run against him. Under Tory rules MPs whittle leadership candidates down to a final two before a vote of the membership, so they could block the former foreign secretary from the head-to-head. Appealing to the party to stand by the banner of 'One Nation Conservatism', Mr Gauke used a speech to the Onward thinktank this morning to call for for a politics which is civil, open-minded and forward-looking. When the Conservatives choose their next leader, the focus should be on 'what is the role of the UK in a post-Brexit world and who is the best candidate to defeat Jeremy Corbyn', he added. In his speech, Mr Gauke said the arguments of some Brexiteers has been 'characterised by wishful thinking' which has 'not survived the collision with reality'. Voters' anger over the failure to deliver Brexit on time has been fuelled by some Leave supporters' over-simplification of the difficulties involved, he said. And he argued that the Government must put the economy at the heart of its Brexit strategy, discouraging a 'culture war' over relations with Europe and ensuring that the UK maintains 'strong trading relationships with our biggest trading partner'. In a challenge to populists' claim to be the heirs of the most successful Tory leader of modern times, he insisted that Margaret Thatcher led her party and her country by confronting populism, not embracing it. Mr Gauke warned that the growth of populism has driven a coarsening of political debate, with language becoming more extreme and civility dismissed as weakness. But he said that on the key political arguments, populists are 'just plain wrong'. In the interview with TalkRadio Ms McVey, 51, seen as an outsider in the leadership race, said: 'I've always said quite clearly if I got enough support from colleagues then yes I would, and now people have come forward and I have got that support.' In an interview with the BBC this morning David Gauke said: 'We have to avoid the temptation to be a populist party' Populist politics would 'make us a poorer and a more divided nation' and fail to satisfy voters who feel disillusioned by the current system, he said. It involves an attack on the very institutions which underpin the UK's political stability and threatens to undermine the United Kingdom itself by manifesting itself in the guise of English nationalism, warned Mr Gauke. 'Conservatism should be broad, not narrow; open, not closed; forward-looking, not yearning for a mythical past,' he said. 'It should be based on an appeal to the common-sense, pragmatic instincts of the majority. We should seek to unite, not divide. One Nation Conservatism. 'Pragmatic, practical, reasonable but determined. That is the character of the British people. That is the character of Conservatism at its best.' Calling for a de-escalation of the 'culture wars' which have raged since the 2016 Brexit referendum, Mr Gauke said the Tories should promote civil debate and mainstream politics. And he said the party must be ready to be open with voters about the need for trade-offs and the fact that 'an easy, simple answer is often the wrong one'. Mr Gauke warned against 'sneering' at those rallying behind populist calls for a swift and 'clean' break from Europe. He said Conservatives should not follow failed US presidential candidate Hillary Clinton in dismissing those concerned about rapid changes to the national culture and economy as 'deplorables'. Instead, the party's platform must be seen to benefit society as a whole and offer an 'aspirational and optimistic' message to those seeking opportunity and improved living standards. From foster care to frontline politics: Liverpudlian Tory Esther McVey is looking to take on Theresa May for the second time over Brexit Shes the former foster child and daugher of a one-time ice cream man who dragged herself up to the heart of Government. Esther McVey, who has announced an outsider run to be Tory leader - and by extension Prime Minister - grew up in the Liverpool suburb of West Derby in a home where money was tight. The now 51-year old went on to work for the family construction firm, become a reporter and set up her own business before turning to politics. After several stints as a minister, including in the Cabinet, she now finds herself on the backbenches but with eyes on the top prize. Last year she revealed she had been a Barnardos child, spending her first two years in care with the charity. In an interview with the Daily Mail she revealed how she had been put into foster care as a baby after she was born to young parents. Miss McVey at the TV Quick Awards in 2000 while working for GMTV (left) and (right) at the Gaytime TV Awards in 1999 Her father Jimmy was 22, while her mother Barbara was only 18. Although she had never spoken publicly about being fostered until last year, she previously told how her young parents were more like siblings, with her grandparents playing a large role. It was a loving, happy time, but cash was tight and it was quite strict, she said in a local newspaper shortly after she was first elected in 2010. I had to polish the shoes on Friday, then help peel the spuds. Her father briefly ran an ice cream van before becoming a scrap merchant, and then setting up his own construction firm, where Miss McVey was for a few years a director. Miss McVey took a law degree at Queen Mary University of London before launching a television career that included a spell as a presenter on GMTV, where she first came to widespread attention. Later she returned to Merseyside and set up her own marketing business after getting a masters from Liverpool John Moores University. In 2005 she unsuccessfully stood as the Conservative candidate in Wirral West before taking the seat five years later. She started her ministerial career at the Department for Work and Pensions in 2012, but was the most high-profile Tory casualty of the 2015 general election when she was ousted following a union-backed campaign. During her time as a minster helping bring in changes to the benefit system she found herself at the centre of a sexism row involving Labour. At a distasteful comedy night on Remembrance Sunday in 2014, shadow chancellor John McDonnell, who was then a backbencher, joked about how activists in Liverpool had wanted to lynch her. Esther McVey tried out the GMTV couch at the breakfast television show in 1999, when she took over from presenter Fiona Phillips while she was on maternity leave Miss McVey and BBC Head of Drama, Mal Young - her then partner - arriving at the 1999 British Comedy Awards To applause, he said that at a meeting he had attended they asked: 'Why are sacking her? Why aren't we lynching the b******?'' She returned to the Cabinet last year following a comeback in the 2017s general election, winning Tatton in Cheshire - the safe Tory seat vacated by former chancellor George Osborne. But within months she was gone again. The hardline Brexiteer clashed with Theresa May over her handling of Brexit in November. She joined Dominic Raab in storming out in fury after the PM put her blueprint to her ministers in a stormy five-hour cabinet session. Since then she has been a vocal critic of the Prime Minister from the backbenches. There have been signs in recent months that she was gearing up for a tilt at the top job. In March she went public with her MP lover Philip Davies. The four-year relationship between her and the stubborn backbench MP for Shipley, 47, was already an open secret at Westminster. But the Brexiteer lovers confirmed they were 'two individuals, but a couple' in a joint-interview with the Conservative Home website. McVey then revealed in April that they were planning to marry after he proposed. She told the Mail: I havent got a date and I havent got a ring, but we hope to marry sometime next year. The arch-Brexiteers met in 2011, when she was impressed that he was one of the first MPs to start campaigning about leaving the EU. She said she was first attracted to his cracking sense of humour. He makes me laugh so much. And he is the most supportive man I have ever met. Hes been there for me in good times and bad. Mr Davies has two children from a previous marriage. But while the Tatton MP had previous relationships, including with ex-minister Ed Vaizey and BBC producer Mal Young, she has not had any herself. In 2014 she admitted she would have liked to but I obviously never met the person I was going to have children with. This is how I am, Im happy with my friends, my family, my job. Ive had other friends who had such a burning desire to have children, they have this biological ticking clock . I dont know what happened to mine. Nobody ever wound it up, she told Grazia. Advertisement Advertisement The Duke of Sussex was presented with his first baby gifts today as he took a break from parenting and travelled to the Netherlands to launch next year's Invictus Games. Prince Harry was showered with presents meant for his infant son Archie during a visit to the Hague, having left the baby royal and his mother Meghan at home for the first time since the birth on Monday. The duke, who became a father just three days ago, was given a toy rattle decorated with rabbits by seven-year-old girl Daimy Gommers, who the grateful royal then hugged before chatting with her parents. Harry and the youngster, whose father Paul, 46, lost a leg in a parachuting accident, met in Toronto two years ago at the Invictus Games where Harry and Meghan first went public about their relationship. Daimy's mother Danielle, from Apledoorn in the Netherlands, said it was 'nice' to see the royal again but joked that she was 'a bit ashamed because the present was for his son not for him but he had unwrapped it'. She added: 'He looks well and he's got lots of energy to be here and he's always so spontaneous. He remembered meeting Daimy before, he's always really good with children. I think he's a terrific father.' Prince Harry, who donned a special 'I am daddy' jacket during a bike ride, was then given a baby grow by Princess Margriet, before laughter from the crowd by modelling it against his own body. The duke was visiting The Hague for the one-year countdown to his charity event, after introducing royal baby Archie to the world alongside Meghan in an eagerly anticipated photocall yesterday following his birth on Monday. Scroll down for video The duke, who became a father just three days ago, was given a toy rattle decorated with rabbits by seven-year-old girl Daimy Gommers, who the grateful royal then hugged before chatting with her parents The Duke of Sussex was presented with his first baby gifts today as he took a break from parenting and travelled to the Netherlands to launch next year's Invictus Games Prince Harry laughed as he was presented with a baby grow by Princess Margriet which featured the logo for his Invictus Games Prince Harry donned a special 'I am daddy' jacket during a bike ride around the Hague today as he returned to work following the birth of his son Archie The Duke of Sussex has a go at archery during a sports training session at Sportcampus Zuiderpark as part of his visit to the Hague The world has been given its first ever glimpse of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex's newborn son yesterday as his beaming parents finally showed off their 'own little bundle of joy' to millions of royal fans across the globe Little Archie Harrison was introduced to the Queen, the Duke of Edinburgh, and Meghan's mother Doria by his proud parents Prince Harry speaks to veterans ahead of the Invictus Games in 2020. The Duke of Sussex founded the games in 2014 in which wounded veterans compete in an array of sporting events The Duke of Sussex took a break from parenting today as he travelled to the Netherlands to launch next year's Invictus Games, where a young girl presented him with a present (left) and he watched competitors in archery (right) Prince Harry given toy rattle for baby Archie as he shares a hug with seven-year-old daughter of Invictus competitor Prince Harry was showered with presents meant for his infant son Archie during a visit to the Hague, having left the baby royal and his mother Meghan at home for the first time since the birth on Monday. The duke, who became a father just three days ago, was given a toy rattle decorated with rabbits by seven-year-old girl Daimy Gommers, who the grateful royal then hugged before chatting with her parents. The duke was given a toy rattle decorated with rabbits by seven-year-old girl Daimy Gommers today (pictured) The two were first introduced at the Invictus Games in Orlando back in 2016 Harry and the youngster, whose father Paul, 46, lost a leg in a parachuting accident, have met on two previous occasions. The two were first introduced at the Invictus Games in Orlando back in 2016. They were again reunited in Toronto two years ago at the Invictus Games where Harry and Meghan first went public about their relationship. Daimy's mother Danielle, from Apledoorn in the Netherlands, said it was 'nice' to see the royal again but joked that she was 'a bit ashamed because the present was for his son not for him but he had unwrapped it'. She added: 'He looks well and he's got lots of energy to be here and he's always so spontaneous. He remembered meeting Daimy before, he's always really good with children. I think he's a terrific father.' They were again reunited in Toronto two years ago at the Invictus Games where Harry and Meghan first went public about their relationship Advertisement In a short speech, he said: 'I'm absolutely thrilled that many more injured, wounded and sick servicemen and women will have the opportunity to continue the journey to their recovery.' Harry told competitors: 'It's your resilience, your determination and your courage which draws crowds in their thousands leaving them more inspired, moved and proud than they ever thought possible.' He added: 'Make these games your own. We chose you for a reason and it wasn't just because I like orange.' There were some shouts of congratulations from the crowds as the new father arrived on Thursday morning, in what was a return to the day job for the prince following a few hectic few days. The duchess is likely to still have the company of her mother Doria Ragland at their Frogmore Cottage home while Harry is away on the short trip. Hundreds of miles away, the duke watched a wheelchair basketball training session in a sports hall at the Sportscampus building before shaking hands and speaking to competitors. Leading parenting expert Suzie Hayman said Harry is likely to find leaving his baby son so soon after his birth 'agonising', and said he would feel a 'pang' to be leaving his wife and child. The Olympic-style Invictus Games are the brainchild of Harry, who served with the British military in Afghanistan - but they have also been a recurring theme in Harry and Meghan's relationship. It was at the 2017 event in Toronto that he made his first appearance with the American former actress, while their attendance at the 2018 Sydney edition came days after they first announced her pregnancy. Founded by Harry in 2014, the Games are an international sporting event for wounded, injured and ill servicemen and women, both active duty and veterans. The prince has previously spoken of how he was profoundly moved by witnessing death and life-changing injuries while on deployment in Afghanistan, coupled with the grief and sadness that went with it. Harry and Meghan announced they had called their baby Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor after the duchess movingly described her son and husband as 'the two best guys in the world'. The couple broke with royal convention by not using a title for their baby boy, and have given their firstborn a name familiar to fans of the American Archie comic - featuring a main character who has red hair just like the duke. The new parents were pictured showing off baby Archie to the Queen and Duke of Edinburgh, alongside Ms Ragland, at Windsor Castle. Harry and Meghan's first born, who is seventh in line to the throne, made his debut with his mother and father at the castle on Wednesday. The duchess described her son as having the 'sweetest temperament', while a delighted duke called him 'our own little bundle of joy'. Meghan added: 'It's magic, it's pretty amazing. I have the two best guys in the world so I'm really happy.' The couple's son arrived on Monday at 5.26am, weighing 7lb 3oz and his father said, when announcing the birth, the baby's late arrival had given them longer to decide on a name. As the first-born son of a duke, Archie could have become Earl of Dumbarton - one of Harry's subsidiary titles - or have been Lord Archie Mountbatten-Windsor. But the couple chose not to use a courtesy title and the decision fits with Harry and Meghan's desire to give their son as normal a life as possible despite his royal heritage. He shares a name with a character who is part of the Archie gang, along with a host of others - including Moose Mason, Betty Cooper and Jughead Jones - who have been on American news stands for years. Archie Andrews is known as 'America's typical teenager' and he and his friends have been updated for a modern audience with Riverdale, a Netflix American teenage drama series. Prince Harry seemed relaxed during the trip to the Hague, and took the time to speak to veterans hopeful of competing at next year's Invictus Games Prince Harry talks with an athlete during the official launch of the one year countdown to the Invictus Games in the Netherlands today Harry, who was greeted by cheering fans and children, mingled with veterans as they practiced in a gymnasium, stopping at one point to try his hand at archery Prince Harry looks at ease as he returned to the day job following a few hectic hours adjusting to life as a first-time parent There were some shouts of congratulations from the crowds as the new father (shown with Princess Margriet, right) arrived, in what was a return to the day job for the prince who has enjoyed a hectic few days Ideal for a royal's family? New dad Prince Harry gets an exclusive first look at forthcoming Land Rover Defender Ray Massey for MailOnline As an adventurous royal father with a new family, its perhaps fitting that Prince Harry has become the first person to enjoy a sneak-peek at Land Rovers long-awaited next generation Defender. And given his new requirements for a flexible family runaround that can cut it in the countryside, it could prove just the job to transport his wife Meghan and their new precious cargo, son Archie. Prince Harrys exclusive tour of the new Defender, which goes on sale early next year, came when he joined potential competitors at a pre-launch event in Holland ahead of Invictus Games The Hague 2020, of which he is patron. New family car, Harry? Prince Harry had an exclusive first look at Land Rover's forthcoming Defender during a visit to The Hague, Netherlands, ahead of the 2020 Invictus Games Given his new requirements for a flexible family runaround that can cut it in the countryside, the next-generation Defender could prove just the job to transport Harry, wife Meghan and their new precious cargo, son Archie The Duke was viewing the new Defender with Dutch Invictus Games medal winner Jack Pastora (right) The new off-roader from Britains biggest car-maker is the successor to the legendary Defender which can trace its life back to 1948 when the original rugged post-war back-to-basics 4X4 Land Rover was launched. The Defender is a favourite of Harrys grandmother, the Queen, who has been frequently photographed and filmed driving one. The Duke of Sussex maintained this long-standing royal connection when he became the first person to publicly experience the new Defender prototype - wrapped in light Invictus Games-themed camouflage - as he began the 12-month countdown to the event. Invictus Games competitors in the Jaguar Land Rover Challenge next May will also be among the first people to drive the new Defender after its official launch. Advertisement The name is German in origin and means 'genuine', 'bold' and 'brave', and is short for Archibald, but is now a name in its own right. Harrison means 'son of Harry' so is likely to be a tribute to the duke. It is English in origin and famous Harrisons include the Star Wars actor Harrison Ford. Archie is not entitled to be an HRH or a prince due to rules set out more than 100 years ago by George V. Prince George, Archie's cousin, reportedly told a dog walker earlier this year that his name is Archie when questioned by the pet owner. The Duke of Sussex took a break from parenting today as he travelled to the Netherlands (pictured), just three days after the birth of his son Archie Prince Harry chats with Princess Margriet and chairman of the Invictus Games Mart de Kruif as he makes his way to the Hague today The duke, who flew into the country on Thursday morning, was met by Princess Margriet (pictured together) as he visited the Hague today Prince Harry arrives in the Netherlands today to launch the one-year countdown to the Invictus Games 2020, of which he is the creator Prince Harry returned to his day job after a hectic few days as a new father. There were some shouts of congratulations from the crowds as the new father arrived Baby Sussex (pictured) made his very first public appearance at a photocall alongside a thrilled Prince Harry and Meghan in the grounds of Windsor Castle, where the new family have been holed up since the historic birth on Monday The couple revealed their plans to present their newborn to the Queen later today, having bumped into the Duke of Edinburgh shortly before the photocall Every day, these workers in China risk their lives to ensure a reliable power supply for their cities. Vertigo-inducing footage has emerged showing electrical workers braving heights of hundreds of feet as they scale a power transmission tower in China. The clip shows two utility workers tight-roping on the 500-kV transmission line through the clouds during maintenance checks and repairs. Vertigo-inducing footage has emerged showing electrical workers braving heights of hundreds of feet as they scale a power transmission tower in China Strapped into their safety harnesses and wearing blue hard hats, the engineers are seen walking on wires no thicker than bottle caps with only a thin line on either side to hold on to. One engineer, Liu Jihong, whose team maintains the power grid in the southern part of Hebei province, told People's Daily the team scales the 70-metre-tall towers at least 10 times every month. 'We make sure hundreds of thousands of families across Hebei's six cities have a reliable electricity supply,' he said. Strapped into their safety harnesses and wearing blue hard hats, the engineers are seen walking on wires no thicker than bottle caps with only a thin line on either side to hold on to One engineer, Liu Jihong, whose team maintains the power grid in the southern part of Hebei, told People's Daily the team scales the 70-metre-tall towers at least 10 times every month 'We make sure hundreds of thousands of families across Hebei's six cities have a reliable electricity supply,' he said 'Every time I climb back down from the tower, I would call my wife to tell her that I'm safe,' he said. In January, villages in south-west China's Chongqing Municipality started deploying drones equipped with a flamethrower to clean garbage on the overhead powerlines. This will eliminate the need to dispatch workers to carry out the dangerous stunt, according to the power company that developed the device. 'We used to clean waste on the wires by initiating a temporary power outage and using a crane or climbing the pole to get the debris, which was a long and complicated process,' said He Tao, the technician from the power company. 'Every time I climb back down from the tower, I would call my wife to tell her I'm safe,' Liu said In January, villages in south-west China's Chongqing Municipality started deploying drones equipped with a flamethrower to clean garbage on the overhead powerlines 'However, the drone is able to solve the problem safely without the need for an outage,' he said. The drone is equipped with a fuel tank, oil pump, automatic ignition device and a flamethrower. 'For ordinary plastic bags or kites, it only takes around 10 seconds to eliminate the waste. But for canvas, banners or tree branches, it could take up to 30 seconds. Burning off a honeycomb will take the longest - around 10 minutes,' He said, adding that the wires will not be damaged due to precise operation of the done. Advertisement The Bel Air mansion where federal agents found more than 1,000 guns thought to be worth several million dollars belongs to the former mistress of oil fortune heir Gordon Getty, with whom she had a secret family. According to court records, the $7million, five-bedroom property comprising 8,200 sq-ft belongs to Getty's former mistress Cynthia Beck, whose 14-year-long secret relationship with the wealthy scion was exposed in 1999. Getty, whose $2billion fortune makes him one of the world's wealthiest men, conducted the illicit affair with Beck behind his wife Ann's back and fathered three daughters - Alexandra, Nicolette and Kendalle - in the process. One man was arrested at the scene, 57-year-old Girard Damien Saenz, who was taken to Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department before being released on $50,000 bond Wednesday morning. Beck and Saenz are long time companions who own several properties together, according to public records. LAPD officials say they are still working through the enormous weapon and ammunition haul, which ranges from modern firearms to antique Civil War rifles as well as shotguns, handguns and even weapon manufacturing equipment. Scroll down for video Some of the thousands of guns that BATF agents found on Wednesday at the Bel Air mansion owned by Gordon Getty's former mistress Cynthia Beck. Authorities discovered the weapons stash after obtaining a search warrant for the $7million home in one of the most affluent neighborhoods in Los Angeles Gordon Getty (left) secretly fathered three daughters with Cynthia Beck, the owner of the raided house, in the 1980s and early 90s. The 85-year-old was married to Ann Gilbert (right together) throughout the duration of his affair with Beck Saenz faces unlawful transportation, giving, lending or selling assault weapon charges and more federal charges could be added as officers continue to process the huge cache of weapons. Authorities discovered the hoard while serving a search warrant at the home in the 100 block of North Beverly Glen Boulevard at 4am on Wednesday. Girard Damien Saenz, 57, was arrested at the scene by the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department. He was released on $50,000 bond on Wednesday morning Among the thousands of firearms are modern automated rifles plus pistols and Civil War-era antique weaponry. 'I had never seen so many weapons in my career of 31 years,' said LAPD Lt Chris Ramirez. 'That's such a big arsenal in a residence like this, in this type of neighborhood. It's astounding.' The officer added that it is not illegal for someone to own a large collection of firearms, however, he said it is illegal to sell weapons from one's home without adhering to the strictly regulated state and federal processes. Miss Beck, who is in her sixties, does not live in the mansion where the thousands of assault rifles were seized - which is thought to be part of a large property portfolio purchased for her by Getty during their relationship. She is believed to lead a reclusive life in Europe and very few photos of her exist. 'Nicolette, Kendalle and Alexandra are my children,' Getty wrote in a press when the scandal broke in 1999. 'Their mother is Cynthia Beck, and I love them very much.' Getty also had four children with wife Ann, including meth-addled son Andrew who was found dead aged 47 on the toilet of his Hollywood mansion in 2015. Thousands of weapons found at the home of Beck, who friends of the famous family have described as a 'lovely woman' Police released photos of the massive cache of weapons lined up on tarps and cardboard outside the home on Wednesday Boxes of ammunition found by BATF agents in a raid on the Bel Air mansion owned by billionaire Gordon Getty's former mistress Friends of the famous family described Beck at the time as a 'lovely woman' but not a socialite. 'She is a nice lady and lives in the L.A. area' her daughters' lawyer Stephen Burgin said. Neighbors were shocked when they heard of the seizure: 'I would never, ever think anybody would be wanting to pack so much in this neighborhood. It scares the wits out of you,' Rabbi Chaim Mentz told ABC. 'What does my next door neighbor have? What does your next door neighbor have?' The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (BATF) raided the property following an anonymous tip-off about the cache of weapons, specifically that someone was 'conducting illegal firearms transaction outside the scope of the federal firearm license that the individual possess,' ATF spokeswoman Ginger Colbrun said in a statement. Colbrun added that authorities have 'no reason to believe the public is in any danger.' Los Angeles Police Deapartment spokesman Officer Mike Lopez said authorities were waned of illegal gun manufacture and sale at a house on North Beverly Glen Boulevard. 'Obviously it's a lot,' Lopez said on Wednesday. 'They're going to be there a long time. Possibly even tomorrow.' 'ATF and LAPD have no reason to believe the public is in any danger,' a statement from the agency said. Some of the thousands of guns discovered by BATF agents on Wednesday when the raided the mansion in Bel Air More ammunition seized from the $7 million Bel Air mansion, bought for Beck by Getty during their affair The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (BATF) raided the property following an anonymous tip-off. Los Angeles Police Deapartment spokesman Officer Mike Lopez said authorities were waned of illegal gun manufacture and sale at a house on North Beverly Glen Boulevard Another home on North Bunker Hill Avenue in Los Angeles was also searched as part of the investigation, law enforcement sources said. Getty, a music composer, assumed control of his father's $2 billion (1.5 billion) trust in 1976. Some believe the Getty family suffers from a curse, which has seen many misfortunes befall them. Gordon's son Andrew Rorke Getty aspired to be a movie director, laboring for 13 years on his only film the The Evil Within. But before he could complete the film, he was found dead at his Hollywood Hills home in 2015 at the age of 47. In 2003, Andrew was sued by a studio assistant, Ingrid Jacobs, for 500 in unpaid wages for his first and only film. The court heard how Getty snorted cocaine, spent heavily on prostitutes and carried a gun keeping an arsenal of assault rifles at his home and threatening the film crew with them. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (BATF) raided the property (pictured) following an anonymous tip-off 'All of us lived in fear of his dark, violent moods,' said Ms Jacobs in court. 'He once screamed at me: 'I'm going to kick you in the kidneys so hard that you choke.' 'He had no worries about spending thousands a week on high-price prostitutes, but he was mean as hell with everyone else.' Charity Thomson, the movie's assistant director, said she saw Getty snorting drugs while on the set. She described him as 'a spoilt rich kid who doesn't value his own life or that of anyone else'. The coroner said his heavy use of methamphetamine had contributed to his death by bleeding from an intestinal ulcer. Andrew was the second eldest of four sons of Gordon Getty, who himself was the fourth son of the family patriarch J. Paul Getty, yet still Gordon assumed control of the $4billion family trust when his father died in 1976. J. Paul Getty married five times and produced six children, whom he treated with such disdain he never even bothered to attend their weddings. He became the world's richest man when he struck oil in the Middle East in 1953. He reportedly showed affection for his youngest son, Timmy. But when he died aged 12 from a brain tumour, his father didn't go to his funeral. His other sons fared little better. His eldest son and heir apparent, George, worked himself into an early grave trying to impress his father in the family business. Some believe the Getty family suffers from a curse, which has seen many misfortunes befall them. Gordon's son Andrew Rorke Getty (pictured right) aspired to be a movie director, laboring for 13 years on his only film the The Evil Within. J. Paul Getty is pictured left He became so despairing at his failure that he would stab himself in the arms with a letter opener. He turned to drink and drugs, and died in 1973 after overdosing on pills. J. Paul Getty's second son, Ronald, was virtually disinherited after his mother Adolphine Getty's third wife dared to drag her feet over a divorce when the tycoon decided to move on to wife number four. John Paul Junior, the third boy, has gone down in history as the prodigal son. After a first job earning $100 a month as a petrol pump attendant, he joined the family business, but took to drinking heavily. He became a heroin addict soon after meeting his second wife, the Dutch actress and socialite Talitha Pol. They became darlings of the celebrity hippie set, partying with the likes of Mick Jagger and Keith Richards. When Talitha died of a heroin overdose in 1971, a devastated John Paul Junior holed himself up in his home in England. Unsurprisingly, he was cut off financially by his father, who intoned: 'No Getty can be a drug addict.' The shortage of funds proved tragic in 1973 when John Paul Junior's oldest child, John Paul III, 16, was kidnapped in Rome by the Mafia. When a $17million ransom demand arrived, his skinflint grandfather refused to help. It was only after one of the boy's ears was sent through the post that Getty coughed up and the hostage was released. Traumatised by his ordeal, the young John Paul Getty III slipped into cocaine, heroin and alcohol addiction. In 1981, he suffered catastrophic liver failure and a severe stroke, emerging from six weeks in a coma virtually blind and paralysed from the neck down. He could communicate by little more than a high-pitched scream. He died aged 54 in 2011. A stunning house hidden inside an old Sydney bakery has hit the market and is expected to sell for nearly $7 million. The residence, bought for just $650,000, has kept the warehouse feel but the spectacular renovated interior is impressively modern. Featuring a stunning roman courtyard with pool, a library, and and art gallery the six-bedroom home, newly listed with The Agency, would be perfect for a large family. A stunning house hidden inside an old Sydney bakery has hit the market and is expected to sell for nearly $7 million The residence, bought for just $650,000 has kept the warehouse feel but the spectacular renovated interior is impressively modern From the street you would be forgiven for thinking the building is just a warehouse, but behind the front doors the building is comfortable and homely. The house features cement floors and visible metal beams throughout jutting out from the red brick walls. The open plan kitchen is appointed with chefs appliances and the massive bench space doubles as an informal eating area. The central courtyard is open to the sky - perfect for catching sunshine on cold days or warming up the pool for an informal summer barbecue. The house also features a library with ceiling high book shelves and a home office The living area has a comfortable feel and opens onto the courtyard, letting in lots of light The house also features a library with ceiling high book shelves and a home office. The six-bedroom home at 198-200 Australia Street in Newtown was put on the market in April last year but failed to find a buyer. It is now listed with The Agency Eastern Suburbs and has a price guide of up to $7 million. The building was built just after the turn of last century and used as a bakery. It was then expanded in 1921 and used as a clothing factory. The current owner purchased the house 25 years ago for $650.000, which was high for that time. 'People have seen the pool on Google Earth and thought it was on the roof,' Mr Miller told The Daily Telegraph in 2018. 'You don't really even know Newtown is there until there is a Swans match on.' The six-bedroom home at 198-200 Australia Street in Newtown was put on the market in April last year but failed to find a buyer Uber is gearing up for its stock market launch on Friday, when investors will reap their rewards for backing the company. The company is 'leaning toward' a price of $45 per share, for a total valuation of $82.36 billion, the Wall Street Journal reported on Thursday. That figure would be at the lower end of the $44 to $50 price range that Uber set last month. Though pricing is down significantly from lofty expectations that Uber would go public with a market cap over $100billion, it would still rank among the largest IPOs in history - and Uber's biggest shareholders stand to take home billions. The biggest individual winner will be investment fund manager Matt Cohler, whose firm Benchmark holds 11 per cent of Uber's stock, putting it in line for a windfall of $6.75 billion. Travis Kalanick, the bad boy co-founder of Uber, is set to makebetween $5.2billion and $5.9billion when the company goes public on Friday Cohler, a 42-year-old Yale graduate, has helped launch some of the biggest names in tech including LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, Uber, Tinder and Bitcoin. Uber co-founders Travis Kalanick and Garret Camp will also net billions each when the bell rings at the New York Stock Exchange on Friday. Kalanick's stock would be worth $5.3billion, while Camp's shares will be worth $3.7billion. Huffington Post founder Arianna Huffington, an Uber board member, owns shares that will be worth about $1million. Amazon founder Jeff Bezos and Shark Tank investor Chris Sacca also made large investments Uber early on and look set to make millions. Kalanick (left) and Garret Camp (right) will both make billions in the IPO Investor Matt Cohler, seen with his Norwegian wife Pia Oien Cohler, is Uber's largest shareholder, with an 11 per cent stake in the company Uber drivers will also be offered bonuses with which to buy shares, with rewards capping out at $40,000 for those who have made more than 40,000 trips. However, some are unhappy with what they see as a meagre payout for enduring otherwise low wages and poor working conditions, with protesters taking to the streets ahead of the launch. Who makes what on the day of Uber's IPO? Travis Kalanick, 8.6 per cent shareholder, estimated payout $5.3billion Garret Camp, 6 per cent shareholder, estimated payout $3.7billion Jeff Bezos, invested $3million, estimated payout $400million Benchmark investment fund, 11 per cent shareholder, estimated payout $6.75 billion Advertisement Kalanick, known as the 'bad boy of tech' for his aggressive workplace ethic, owns 8.6 per cent of Uber's stock. Meanwhile Camp has a 6 per cent stake in the firm. Bezos, who invested some $3million early in the business's existence, could see that increase to as much as $400million. Kalanick will get his money despite becoming one of the scalps of the MeToo movement when he was was forced out by Uber's board in 2017. While Kalanick was not accused of anything himself, he was held responsible for encouraging a workplace ethic where women said sexual harassment and sexism was commonplace. Kalanick was also made infamous for his business buzz-phrases such as Always Be Hustlin', Fierceness, Superpumpedness, and Toe-Stepping. Amazon founder Jeff Bezos (pictured this week at the Met Gala) is also set for a $400million windfall after becoming one of the earliest investors in the firm Chris Sacca, best known as one of the investors on Shark Tank, is also set for a large windfall if all goes according to plan on Friday Silicon Valley power-couple Cyan (left) and Scott Banister, who are among the backers of SpaceX and PayPal, are also heavy invested in Uber Workers said this fostered an atmosphere of bullying within the firm. Camp, his co-founder, is less notorious but well-known within the tech world as the founder of StumbleUpon. They are not the only ones in line to make a fortune on the offering. Scott and Cyan Banister, a Silicon Valley power-couple who are also involved with firms such as SpaceX and PayPal, count Uber shares as part of their portfolios. Uber went through 18 rounds of fundraising, raising a total of $22billion, ahead of Friday's public opening. Venture capital funds were among heavy investors in those rounds, with the likes of Goldman Sachs, Morgan Stanley and Blackrock all making the list. The sovereign wealth fund of Saudi Arabia was also among late but heavy investors in the business. SoftBank was another late investor, and holds the largest stake with 16.3 per cent. Other names on the list include Adam Leber, a talent manager whose clients have included Miley Cyrus; Jeremy Stoppelman, the CEO of Yelp; and Gary Vaynerchuk, a wine critic turned internet personality and author. Drivers are also set to receive a small windfall from the offering, but some took to the streets around the world to protest low wages ahead of the launch Uber set an estimated price range of between $44 and $50 per share in a filing it made last month. There are fears that Uber could have a rocky entry on to the stock market, after rival ride-sharing firm Lyft went public on March 29. The company's share price, which started at $72 per share with a total value of $15billion, has fallen consistently ever since and is now around $53. Neither Lyft nor Uber has ever turned a profit, and there are signs their revenue growth is slowing down. Other tech IPOs have been similarly fraught, with Facebook's launch in 2012 - then the biggest in tech - being plagued with issues. While the firm was initially valued at $38 per share - $104billion in total - that price quickly fell to $27 after two weeks, losing investors $40billion in the process. Facebook shares are now worth around $190 each. Video has emerged of the frantic moment a gunfight broke out between a thief and police officers who tried to arrest him in an underground car park. The footage shows police asking the man about a bag he was carrying after suspecting him of stealing from a Surfers Paradise apartment block. The thief then brandishes a revolver at officers before he yells, 'Get off me, I'll shoot.' Gunshots can then be heard echoing in the car park as officers scramble to take control of the situation. On Thursday, a Brisbane Supreme Court jury found Daniel Luke White Mayne guilty of an alternate charge of attempted striking to resist arrest over a shoot out with police in January 2017 The man was shot by officers in the leg and scrotum during the gunfight and, when one of the officers gun's jammed he fired a shot as she tried to flee. But surprisingly, he was found not guilty of attempted murder in a Queensland court this week. Brisbane Supreme Court jury found Daniel Luke White-Mayne guilty of an alternate charge of attempted striking to resist arrest on Thursday. The 28-year-old was cleared of trying to murder Constable Diane Dorothy Squires after a routine arrest escalated in the underground car park shoot out in 2017. Squires and Constable Simeon Pickering tried to arrest White-Mayne for suspected stealing at a Surfers Paradise apartment block when things turned ugly. '(White-Mayne) pulled out a gun. It was held in a position that, to me, was ready to fire.' Const Squires told the court she thought she was going to die after shooting White-Mayne in the thigh, scrotum and foot in response. She said she remembers seeing the gun 'very close' to her face. After shooting at him four times, her gun jammed and he yelled 'you shot me' and fired a shot at her. She fled from White-Mayne, who she said words to the effect of 'you're gonna die' or 'you're going to cop this, you dog c**t'. 'I thought then I was going to die,' she said. The 28-year-old was cleared of trying to murder Constable Diane Dorothy Squires when he pulled out a revolver from his bag after police tried to arrest him for suspected stealing Body camera footage taken by Const Pickering played on the first day of the trial showed the incident, and the sound of several gunshots can be heard. White-Mayne's defence said he never intended to kill the policewoman, and claimed 'he was just trying to scare them so he could get away.' White-Mayne remains in custody, and the matter was adjourned to May 24 to determine a date for a sentencing. Connor Wastell, pictured yesterday outside Maidstone Crown Court with his service medals, was jailed for five years for assaulting Alex Craig outside a pub in Sittingbourne, Kent A 'jealous' former British Army soldier who repeatedly punched and kicked a good Samaritan after he intervened in a row with his girlfriend has been jailed for five years. Connor Wastell, who served as Royal Engineer sapper and saw active duty in Afghanistan, lost his temper when Alex Craig told him to leave Beth Straughton alone. Wastell, 25, grabbed the mother of his two children by her wrist as they sat in her car parked outside a pub near Sittingbourne, Kent, and then attacked Mr Craig in the street after he verbally interjected. Despite protesting he did not want to fight, the self-employed plumber was punched to the ground and then kicked to his face and ribs each time he tried to get back to his feet. He was left covered in blood and suffered a fractured eye socket, cut hand, torn ankle ligaments, rib injuries and concussion. A brain injury was also suspected and Mr Craig said he feared for his life. Maidstone Crown Court, Kent, heard the three had not met before that evening, and each gave differing accounts as to exactly how Mr Craig ended up with his injuries. The victim and Miss Straughton maintained Wastell, who believed Mr Craig was 'hitting on' his partner, was both the instigator and aggressor. But although the ex-serviceman pleaded guilty to causing grievous bodily harm with intent, having agreed he went 'too far', he claimed he only reacted as a result of violence from Mr Craig. However, ruling on the evidence given by all three yesterday, Judge Martin Huseyin said although he could not exclude the possibility Wastell was provoked 'in a minor way', he had not acted in self-defence. The former soldier, said to suffer from combat stress and now working as a bodyguard, stood in the dock with two service medals pinned to his suit jacket as sentence was passed. Maidstone Crown Court heard Wastell, pictured, served four years with the Royal Engineers including an eight-month tour of duty in Afghanistan The court heard Wastell, pictured here with his former partner Beth Straughton, grabbed her by the wrists as they sat outside a bar in Sittingbourne Ms Straughton told the court, that her former partner was 'a different person in drink' The judge told him: 'It is a sad duty to sentence someone like you who has given important service to their country and has suffered himself for it. 'The fact is, this was a nasty assault borne out of jealousy. There was no need to defend yourself. Quite the opposite. 'You should have just stayed in the car and waited for the man to go away and waited for your own jealousy and rage to subside. 'Had you been sober you would have behaved much more sensibly. Drink is a considerable problem for you and will continue to be a problem to you if you don't tackle it. 'This was an appalling assault....You are a trained, military man with skills in handling yourself and handling other people. 'Those skills were put to very bad use that night.' Judge Huseyin read what he described as a 'glowing' reference from Wastell's former major and said there was considerable personal mitigation in his service record. But he added he had a duty to protect the public from the risk of such drunken attacks. Judge Huseyin also described Miss Straughton's evidence of how Mr Craig was relentlessly attacked as 'impressive, cogent and compelling'. She had also told the court her now ex-partner was 'a different person in drink'. Judge Martin Huseyin, sitting at Maidstone Crown Court told Wastell that getting drunk and beating up people was not the correct way to deal with combat stress But the judge said while it was not unusual for ex-servicemen suffering from stress to turn to alcohol, it did not excuse violent behaviour. 'Getting drunk and beating people up is not the way to deal with those problems,' he added. Wastell, Miss Straughton and Mr Craig met while drinking in Millers bar on the evening of September 30, 2017. Both men were drunk, the court heard, and Mr Craig was also emotional at the death of his father just a few days earlier. The court heard Miss Straughton had been talking to and consoling Mr Craig before they all left at closing time. The couple then argued as they sat in her Vauxhall Astra. Miss Straughton said Wastell, who has a previous conviction for drink-driving in 2016, grabbed and twisted her wrist, causing her pain. Mr Craig, who was in the rear seat, leant through the central gap, taking hold of her partner's arm and telling him to stop. But Wastell then challenged Mr Craig to a fight. Once outside the car, Wastell lashed out and knocked him to the ground with force. Miss Straughton also got out of the vehicle to try to break it up. But she told the court: 'I knew I couldn't stop it. Alex then got hit to the ground again but a lot harder. 'Connor had the upper hand. Every time Alex tried to get up and to get away, Connor would follow him and knock him back down again. He just kept telling Connor to stop.' Both men ended up bare-chested and when police arrived Wastell told them: 'It's a good thing you were here otherwise I would have killed him.' Mr Craig denied either hitting Wastell in the car or throwing the first punch in the street. He told the court: 'I just tried to intervene in something I thought was wrongdoing.' Wastell, who injured his foot during the attack, said he was annoyed with his girlfriend for what he described as 'entertaining' Mr Craig. But he admitted he had 'snapped' and repeatedly ordered Mr Craig to 'stay down' on the ground as he punched and kicked him. Wastell from Sittingbourne, said he 'saw red' and told the court: 'I fully hold my hands up and know I went too far.' According to his LinkedIn profile, he now works as a self-employed close protection operative, having served as a sapper between March 2011 and October 2015. He was based in Hohne, Germany, and deployed in Afghanistan for eight months. The court heard that while awaiting his case to be dealt with, he had contacted Mr Craig to apologise and had also sought assistance from veterans' mental health charity, Combat Stress. Three men and a teenage boy have been arrested by detectives investigating the murder of journalist Lyra McKee. Ms McKee, 29, was shot while watching disturbances on the Creggan estate in Londonderry last month. Dissident republican group the New IRA has said its members carried out the killing. This morning, the Police Service of Northern Ireland said four people have been arrested as part of their murder investigation. Lyra McKee was murdered while watching riots in Londonderry last month The four, aged 15, 18, 38 and 51, were arrested in Derry under terrorism legislation. They have been taken to the serious crime suite in Musgrave Station, Belfast where they are currently being questioned by detectives. Detective Superintendent Jason Murphy said the arrests came after searches at four houses. 'As part of this morning's operation detectives carried out searches at four houses in the city and arrested four people in connection with the violence which was orchestrated on the streets of Creggan on the evening of Lyra McKee's murder,' he said. 'They are currently in custody where they are being questioned.' In the days after the shooting, two men, aged 18 and 19, were arrested, as well as a 57-year-old woman. All were later released without charge. Police previously released images of two other men, one who was with the gunman carrying a crate of petrol bombs (left) and another who was seen walking next to the gunman (right) Det Sup Murphy added: 'I want to thank the public for the widespread support we have received to date, including more than 140 people who have provided images, footage and other details via our dedicated major incident public portal. 'I still want to hear from anyone who can tell us anything they know. 'I would urge anyone who has any information to contact my team of detectives on 101. 'Alternatively, if you would prefer to provide information without giving your details, you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers and speak to them anonymously on 0800 555 111.' People can also upload any footage that they have to the major incident public portal via the following link: https://mipp.police.uk/operation/PSNI19O09-PO1. A woman in south China has been sentenced to four years in prison for slapping a bus driver after he charged her an extra 10p for the fare. The 29-year-old woman, identified by her surname Chen, received the hefty sentence in court today in Haikou city's Meilan district after she was convicted of endangering public safety by dangerous means. Shocking CCTV footage of the incident last December shows the woman pointing angrily at the driver while arguing with him before violently slapping him across the face while the bus was in motion. CCTV footage of the incident in December shows the woman pointing angrily at the driver while arguing with him before slapping him across the face while the bus was in motion After being hit, driver Fu Chuanming stopped the bus on the side of the road and called police The female passenger had been accusing the driver of charging her the wrong fare and demanded a refund of 1 yuan, according to People's Daily. The pair started arguing at around 2pm on December 27 and the woman lost her temper, yanking a small Chinese flag from the driver's seat and throwing it on the floor. After the driver asked her to pick up the flag, the woman suddenly struck him across the face. After being hit, driver Fu Chuanming stopped the bus on the side of the road and called police. The pair started arguing at around 2pm on December 27 and the woman lost her temper, yanking a small Chinese flag from the driver's seat and throwing it on the floor As the driver asked her to pick up the flag, the woman suddenly slapped him across the face Chen was officially arrested on January 9 and sentenced to jail today at the Haikou Meilan People's Court. Net users applauded the penalty, calling it a fair judgment. 'This is what you deserve for endangering the safety of other people!' one person commented on Chinese microblogging site Weibo. 'The sentence was heavier than I expected - but when I think about it, it's reasonable. I just hope offenders of other crimes will get heavier sentences too,' another said. 'Awesome! These people should be blacklisted from taking public transport!' one user said. 'I hope the hefty sentence will remind others not to make the same mistake!' one comment read. Chen was officially arrested on January 9 after the incident on December 27 She was sentenced to four years in jail today at the Haikou Meilan People's Court Passenger-driver disputes recently came under the spotlight in China after a fight between a driver and a commuter caused a bus in Chongqing to plunge into a river in October, killing at least 13 people on board. The tragic accident prompted authorities to impose more severe penalties on offending passengers. In November, a man in Yinchuan, Ningxia was sentenced to three years and two months in prison for grabbing the steering wheel from the bus driver. The man, surnamed Chen, was seen arguing with the driver and squeezing his neck during the fight. Two other passengers were injured when the driver was forced to apply the emergency brake. The mother of six-year-old Alesha MacPhail has opened up about her grief and revealed her murdered daughter's harrowing last words to her sister. In a heartwrenching interview Georgina Lochrane spoke out about her struggle to cope in the wake of her Alesha's horrific death, and how her surviving daughter has become her reason for living. The 24-year-old revealed how the youngster hugged her five-year-old sister Courtney and said, 'I love you' in what was to be the last time they saw one another. The inseparable pair told their mother they were 'best sisters for life', before Alesha was snatched from her bed while staying with her grandparents' on the Scottish Isle of Bute. Georgina Lochrane spoke out about her struggle to cope in the wake of her daughter's horrific death Alesha, from Airdrie, Lanarkshire, (left) was abducted and killed by twisted 16-year-old Aaron Campbell (right) Extended video: Alesha MacPhail's mum has vowed to honour her daughter's memory through work with FAMS Charity: https://t.co/NaEh9YmPqf pic.twitter.com/XAAfuqSYhb STV News (@STVNews) May 8, 2019 In her first television interview since her Alesha's death, Ms Lochrane told STV News at Six how she hoped to help other families torn apart by similar tragedies. The young mother has vowed to face 16-year-old Aaron Campbell, who raped and murdered 'angelic' Alesha after abducting her from her bed in the middle of the night. Ms Lochrane says she wants to work with the charity FAMS (Families against murder and suicide) which has helped her since losing her daughter. She told STV News: 'If I didn't have Courtney I would just want to crumble and be with Alesha right now. 'But I still have her. She is my fight. I have to fight for her, and when she is older I have to tell her what happened.' She also opened up about the last time Alesha and her little sister said goodbye to one another. She added: 'Alesha told Courtney 'you're my best sister' and Courtney said 'you're mine'. 'They told each other they loved each other. Courtney still speaks about that day, She remembers it but she doesn't realise that's the last time she saw Alesha.' The young mother also spoke about her guilt about not being able to save her daughter. She said: 'I know I couldn't have done anything but there's still a part of me..I still feel guilty about what happened to her.' Georgina Lochrane outside the High Court in Glasgow in February, after a judge allowed Aaron Campbell, 16, to be identified as the teenager who abducted, raped and murdered her six-year-old daughter Alesha Alesha, from Airdrie, Lanarkshire, was reported missing while visiting her grandparents on the island on July 2 last year. She was taken from her bed to nearby woodland after falling asleep watching Peppa Pig and subjected to harrowing abuse. Her naked remains were found two hours later in the grounds of the former Kyles Hydropathic Hotel. In February, a jury at High Court in Glasgow found Campbell guilty of taking the youngster from her bed, raping and mutilating her and dumping her body in woodland. An autopsy found that Alesha had suffered 117 injuries and died from significant pressure being applied to her face and neck. Campbell, who was sentenced to a minimum of 27 years in prison in February, has since launched an appeal against his sentence. The European Union has urged China to 'change' the situation in Xinjiang, an EU diplomat said Thursday, as the bloc seeks to visit the northwest region where an estimated one million mostly Muslim minorities are held in internment camps. China has come under increasing global scrutiny over its treatment of ethnic Uighurs and other Turkic-speaking minorities in Xinjiang, with the EU and the United Nations requesting access to the region. 'We have made clear to the Chinese side our evaluation and our expectations. We are calling for a change in the situation in Xinjiang,' the EU ambassador to Beijing, Nicolas Chapuis, told reporters. A perimeter fence is constructed around what is officially known as a vocational skills education centre in Dabancheng in China's far-west Xinjiang region. China is stepping up its diplomatic outreach over controversial camps in the heavily Muslim region of Xinjiang Beijing has defended its security crackdown in Xinjiang, with the EU and the United Nations requesting access to the region 'We are willing to engage into a dialogue with China to show that there are different ways to deal with de-radicalisation,' Chapuis said. Issues of concern in Xinjiang include freedom of religion and expression, the rights of minorities and racial discrimination, he said. Last week, a Human Rights Watch report said China is using a mobile app designed for mass surveillance to profile, investigate and detain Muslims in Xinjiang. Last week, a Human Rights Watch report said China is using a mobile app designed for mass surveillance to profile, investigate and detain Muslims in Xinjiang (file photo) The app would allegedly label the users' 'completely lawful' behaviour as suspicious, putting them at risk of being penalised or sent to 're-education centres'. Authorities closely watch the Muslim minorities with 36 categories of behaviour, including those who do not socialise with neighbours, often avoid using the front door, don't use a smartphone, donate to mosques 'enthusiastically', and use an 'abnormal' amount of electricity, the report found. The app also instructs officers to investigate those related to someone who got a new phone number, or related to others who left the country and have not returned after 30 days. Beijing has defended its security crackdown, describing the camps as voluntary 'vocational education centres' aimed at steering people away from religious extremism, terrorism and separatism. Issues of concern in Xinjiang include freedom of religion and expression, the rights of minorities and racial discrimination, Nicolas Chapuis, EU ambassador to Beijing, said A building of what is officially called a vocational skills education centre in Hotan, Xinjiang China announced in March that it was inviting EU ambassadors to visit Xinjiang but the two sides have yet to agree on an itinerary. 'We need a programme and this programme should be deemed meaningful by' the EU ambassadors, Chapuis said. 'The dates will be set by the Chinese authorities when a programme will have been approved,' he said. He said the EU also wants independent observers to be allowed to visit the region, including the UN human rights chief, Michelle Bachelet. China has said it would welcome UN officials to the restive region with the condition that they stay out of the country's internal affairs. A Liberal candidate has been sacked for claiming a man who allegedly raped his wife was the 'real victim'. Gurpal Singh, contesting the Victorian seat of Scullin, has previously come under fire for linking same-sex marriage to paedophilia. In a Facebook post from May last year, Singh said he had 'no sympathy' for the alleged rape victim and questioned why she stayed with her husband so long. 'It's shameful that a married woman suffering family violence can go to such extent,' he said. Liberal candidate Gurpal Singh has been dumped by the Liberal party for saying he had no sympathy for a woman who was allegedly raped by her husband. In the past he has also linked gay-marriage to paedophilia 'She skimmed her lover, husband and father of her two children for all these years. And now she alleges rape. Was she kept locked all these year?' 'The real victim is the husband.' The Liberal party succumbed to pressure and dumped Singh on Thursday night after his comments were revealed. 'Based on new information that has come to light, Mr Gurpal Singh has been asked to resign as the candidate for Scullin,' a party spokesman said. 'Mr Singh sincerely apologises for his previous comments and has tendered his resignation.' Until Mr Singh's latest comments emerged, the Liberals stood by their candidate, despite his homophobic remarks made during the campaign against same-sex marriage. Gurpal Singh, contesting the Victorian seat of Scullin, was dumped by the Liberal party on Thursday night after his May 2018 comments on rape were revealed He made the remarks in an interview in 2017, where he insinuated children raised by gay and lesbian parents were at risk of sexual abuse. Scott Morrison said on Wednesday the homophobic comments from two years ago had been 'dealt with' and Mr Singh would remain. Singh is the latest in a long line of politicians getting sacked over inappropriate remarks. Labor candidate for the seat of Melbourne Luke Creasey withdrew last week after making rape jokes and other vulgar remarks on social media. Singh is the latest in a long line of politicians getting sacked over making inappropriate remarks In the posts in 2012, Creasey shared a meme titled 'overly attached girlfriend' which read: 'Hey I just met you / If you don't date me / You'll go to prison / I'll say you raped me.' Liberal Jessica Whelan stepped down over anti-Muslim rants and comments made on Facebook. The Lyons candidate was accused in Parliament of advocating the genital mutilation of Muslim women and selling them as slaves, and of saying Tasmanians 'don't bloody want' to take in Syrian refugees. Jeremy Hearn was dumped from the Liberal party earlier this month over an online rant that attacked Muslims, calling them 'people of bad character' and claiming they are plotting to kill and enslave non-Muslim Australians. A British man was killed in Australia when his Uber driver failed to take 'reasonable care' before driving off with his passenger still getting out of the car, a coroner has ruled. Samuel Thomas, 30, died in Sydney in June 2017 when the driver, Nazrul Islam, 32, accelerated away with the Briton 'half-in-half-out' of the vehicle. Bricklayer Mr Thomas was caught off balance and fell into the path of a bus, killing him. An inquest in Hertfordshire, where Mr Thomas was from, gave his cause of death as 'severe catastrophic head injury'. Victim: British bricklayer Samuel Thomas (pictured), 30, died in Sydney in June 2017 when his Uber driver accelerated away with the Briton 'half-in-half-out' of the vehicle Guilty: Driver Nazrul Islam was convicted of causing the death at a trial in Sydney in late 2018 At the hearing yesterday the coroner gave a verdict of a death caused by road traffic collision. According to BBC News, coroner Geoffrey Sullivan said Islam did not take 'reasonable care' over his passenger. 'The driver accelerated off when Mr Thomas was half way out of the car. He fell into the path of a bus which collided with him and he was killed instantly,' he said. A UK coroner will normally hold an inquest if a Briton dies in violent, sudden or unnatural circumstances abroad. Islam was found guilty of causing the death at a trial in Sydney last year. He avoided a prison term but was handed a 10-month corrections order involving at least 200 hours of community service. The driver from Bangladesh had denied responsibility for Mr Thomas' death but a magistrate found he 'did not keep a proper lookout'. A magistrate found the driver 'did not keep a proper lookout' when Mr Thomas (pictured) opened a rear passenger door while stopped at a red light before he accelerated Hannah Thomas, sister of Samuel Thomas (centre) and Stephen Ronning, a friend of Samuel Thomas (right) leave the Downing Centre Court in Sydney last year Mr Thomas opened the door 'without warning' while the car was stopped at a red light, the court heard. However the magistrate said a car light had come on when and should have alerted Islam to the fact his passenger was trying to get out. The court heard he had worked for 21 hours before the incident and slept only intermittently. The Briton had been drinking at a birthday party with colleagues in Strathfield, a suburb of Sydney, before catching the Uber with friends. His sister, Hannah Thomas, told reporters in November 2018 that her brother was 'sweet and funny' and 'this was his dream' to live in Australia. 'We love him and miss him and we just hope today is some closure for us and for him,' she said after the guilty verdict. A little cat has travelled thousands of miles from China to Italy by accident after being trapped in a shipping container for more than a month. The male moggy miraculously survived the lengthy voyage after spending about 45 days in the sealed space without food and water. It was discovered inside the container on April 27 by a customs officer from Pioltello outside Milan. Welcome to Italy! A picture posted by Ats Metropolitan City of Milan shows the cat resting Miraculous survival: The moggy is seen inside the container after being trapped there for more than a month. It had travelled thousands of miles with the cargo ship from China to Milan The seafaring cat was so weak and exhausted when it was found it could barely drag itself, according to vet Fabio Maffioletti who is looking after the animal. Mr Maffioletti is a vet from Ats Metropolitan City of Milan, the regional public health agency. He told La Repubblica that the cat must have found something to eat among the cargo to survive. The ship was bound for the port of Genoa by the Mediterranean. The orange feline is believed to be eight months old and a stray from the Far East. The cargo ship left an unspecified port in China and was bound for Genoa (file photo) in Italy It remains unclear from which port the container had departed, but a typical voyage from China to Milan takes 35 days and the cat would have been stuck for another 10 days during the customs inspection. Mr Maffioletti and his colleagues have named the kitten 'Cina' after its origin. A picture released by Ats Metropolitan City of Milan through Facebook on Saturday shows 'Cina' resting in a cat bed next to a pink blanket and a Hello Kitty soft toy. Milan-based English website Wanted in Milan also published a picture on Monday which appears to show the cat as it was discovered on the boat. Apparently, the strong-willed animal has become an internet star after news of its incredible journey travelled back to its homeland. The cat was trapped inside a container for 45 days before the ship reached Milan (file photo) On China's Twitter-like Weibo, a trending topic page has been created in its honour. The page has been viewed more than 230 million times, attracting more than 40,000 comments. One of its fans joked: 'Will it have problem communicating with the locals cats there?' Another one said: 'The feline version of "Life of Pi".' A third user, a well-wisher, commented: 'Please grow up well in your new home!' The Italian vet said they put the kitten on IV drips in the first few days. Now the little feline can eat on its own and is slowly recovering. 'Cina', which doesn't have any health records, will be kept at the vet for 45 days under quarantine to ensure it doesn't carry any infectious diseases. The Duchess of Cambridge dressed up as Miss Moneypenny at a Bond-themed party while she and her husband lived on Anglesey, it was revealed yesterday. Kate, 37, and William, 36, spent three years on the Welsh island from 2010 to 2013 while he worked as an RAF search and rescue pilot. The Duchess spent her time volunteering and was reunited with old friends at the 1st Menai Bridge Scout Group during a visit yesterday. The group leader let slip she made an 'attractive' Moneypenny when she dressed up as 007's secretary for a Bond-themed party the Scouts organised. The Duchess of Cambridge (left) dressed up as Miss Moneypenny (played by Lois Maxwell, right) at a Bond-themed party while she and her husband lived on Anglesey, it was revealed when she re-visited the island yesterday Scout leader Macolm Rodgers said: 'It was a reunion of friends today. It was so lovely to see the Duchess again. 'She really got stuck in with us and the children and, when we had a James Bond-themed party, she made a very attractive Miss Moneypenny. 'She told us today how much she enjoyed volunteering with us.' The character, later given the first names Eve or Jane, was first portrayed by Lois Maxwell in 1962 and has since been played by Samantha Bond. Prince William and Kate are pictured with members of the 1sr Menai Bridge Scout Group during a litter pick on Newborough Beach yesterday Most recently the role was given to Oscar-nominated British actress Naomie Harris. Sue Hesketh, the group's Cub leader, said: 'She said how nice it was to see us again, and how happy she was that we were still involved in scouting. 'Prince William also said it was nice to meet us, as he'd heard a lot about us. 'It was funny because, when she started helping out and got stuck in, some of the children got told off when they told their parents that the Duchess had become a helper - they thought they were fibbing.' The royals met with various individuals in the region to learn more about their efforts to take care of their communities and protect the natural environment. They are pictured on Newborough Beach in Anglesey During their time on the island the couple were often spotted out and about, with the White Eagle pub in Rhoscolyn and the Waitrose in Menai Bridge being two of their regular haunts. Christopher Hughes, 16, remembered the Duchess helping with the Scout group when he was just nine years old. Speaking about her work with the group in the past, he said: 'We didn't know who she was at first, but we were told she was important. It was very exciting at the time, but really she was very normal with us.' The Duke and Duchess also joined a litter pick on Newborough Beach in Angelsey with children from Ysgol Santes Dwynwen, which opened just a week ago. They previously mentioned they cannot 'wait' to meet the newest addition to the royal family after Meghan and Harry's newborn son Archie was introduced to the world yesterday. Teacher Manon Williams said: 'The Duke and Duchess were really lovely with the children. As Prince William held out a red bin bag ready to fill with waste, Kate used a picker to scoop together a mound of waste which had washed up on the shores of Newborough beach 'They asked them a lot of questions about the environment. You can tell they really care. 'Prince William said he loved Llanddwyn and praised the children for helping to keep it clean.' As well as visiting Llanddwyn on Wednesday, they also went to the Caernarfon Coastguard Search and Rescue Helicopter Base, where they viewed the Sikorsky S92 helicopters and met members of the team, many of whom previously worked alongside the Duke at RAF Valley. The Duke and Duchess also joined a discussion with crew members about the mental health challenges that result from working as first responders, and met staff from the Wales Air Ambulance, which operates next door to the base. From Caernarfon, their Royal Highnesses traveled to Anglesey to visit Halen Mon Anglesey Sea Salt. Twin brothers believed to be the last of Australia's bushrangers have revealed the one mistake which led to their capture after decades robbing banks and TABs. Peter and Doug Morgan, known as the 'After Dark Bandits', were the sons of notorious criminal Kay Morgan, who in 1949, was finally apprehended after a bank robbery went wrong. Kay was confronted by a bank officer he attempted to shoot his way out of the Eltham State Bank despite being empty handed - only to crash his getaway vehicle into a nearby ditch. He was apprehended one month later and spent three years locked up behind bars for the failed robbery. Peter and Doug's criminal rein came to an abrupt end in eerily similar circumstances after an attempted heist didn't go to plan. One night, Peter decided to try his luck at robbing the same bank for a third time but things did not turn out the way he planned (pictured one of the twins robbing a bank) The twins fell into a life of crime in the late 1970s after a dip in the building industry meant they were no longer able to make a decent dollar working as contractors. In a desperate bid to get some cash, they spent the next two years on a crime spree, and successfully raided at least 24 banks and TABs across Victoria. During their rein, the brothers ran rings around police by wearing the exact same clothing while ambushing different locations at the same time. 'We had the coppers running all over the place,' Doug told A Current Affair. 'To be serious, they had no idea, they were running around in circles, could not get near us. But we planned it like that for our own safety.' The pair would use several different methods of escape from motorbikes and canoes to taxis from outside the area, and occasionally they would hitch-hike to flee the scene of the crime. Most of their robberies were committed at night to allow for easy escape back into safety. They would then remain on the down-low for a while before committing their next burglary similar to a bushranger. The twins would wear the same clothing when committing the burglary and different locations to confuse police (pictured far left in mask one of the twins) A bushranger commonly referred to a career criminal in the 1800s and 1900s who used desolate areas of the bush as a base and made their everyday earnings from 'robbery under arms'. But on one ill-fated night in April 1979 the identical brother's elicit acts were put to an end. Peter wanted to try his luck and rob the Heathcote CBC bank for a third time. But things didn't turn out the way he had planned and during the robbery he shot Senior Constable Ray Koch, twice. Peter than forced Constable Koch into the bank before he fled with $11,000. Miraculously Constable Koch survived the double shooting, despite a bullet being found lodged in his heart, and went onto live for another 16 years. Peter was arrested the next day after he was spotted walking down the street by police officer Rick Hasty. Mr Hasty said he had an unwavering hunch that the man he had seen had shot Constable Koch and so he followed the suspect. The pair had a brief confrontation before Peter attempted to pull out a gun on Mr Hasty. But Mr Hasty was able to remove the gun from Peter's hands and threatened him if he made a move. 'I said, 'you f****** move and I'll kill you as you stand there',' Mr Hasty told the new programme. Peter (right) and Doug (left) Morgan were dubbed the 'After Dark Bandit' in the 1970s after pulling off a bunch of robberies. Although the brothers had always vowed that if one of them were to be arrested they would give the other twin 12 hours to lay low before confessing all to the police. However, Peter gave Doug up almost immediately after his arrest which led to their 17 year imprisonment in Pentridge Prison. To this day Peter regrets giving up his brother and said he does not wish imprisonment on anyone. Congressional allies of Donald Trump Jr. are rushing to his defense following news that a Republican committee chairman authorized a subpoena to drag him back to Capitol Hill for more sworn testimony. But the White House so far publicly, at least is keeping him at arm's length, with the acting chief of staff saying only one Donald Trump has been exonerated. Senate Intelligence Committee Chairman Richard Burr green-lighted the subpoena 'a few weeks ago,' according to a source with knowledge of the situation, but the committee took no steps to withdraw it after Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell declared in a floor speech that Special Counsel Robert Mueller's report delivered a 'case closed' verdict on alleged Trump-Russia ties. At the other end of Pennsylvania Avenue, acting White House Chief of Staff Mick Mulvaney appeared to throw the president's eldest son under the bus. He hedged in a CBS News podcast interview, suggesting that the two Trumps have different legal interests and that McConnell's 'case closed' declaration only applied to one of them. 'They're two different people. They do share the same name and certainly Don Jr. is the president's son. But I think what Mr. McConnell was speaking to was that the president has been exonerated,' Mulvaney said. A surprise subpoena from a Republican Senate committee chair put Donald Trump Jr. front-and-center on Wednesday and the White House didn't rush to defend him White House Acting Chief of Staff Mick Mulvaney said in a CBS News podcast interview that while the Mueller probe exonerated President Trump, 'I have no idea' if 'other individuals may or may have not done other things' The president hasn't publicly defended his eldest son but some of his closest Washington allies are coming out swinging 'There was no collusion and no obstruction, period, end of story. Now it's time to move onto the business of government. Does that mean that other individuals may or may have not done other things? I have no idea but I think that's what Mr. McConnell was speaking to, the implications for the President of the United States.' 'There was no reason that McConnell would go to the floor to talk about Don Jr. That's just not going to happen. He was talking about the president,' Mulvaney said. He added that while he couldn't be sure whether President Trump knew his son had been subpoenaed, 'I didn't know about it.' 'To subpoena the president of the United States son and not at least get a heads-up, I thought was let's say bad form.' It's unclear when President Trump learned about the subpoena. News of its existence broke Wednesday afternoon. But the members of Congress who were first to come out swinging on his son's behalf are among his closest Washington collaborators. Senate Intelligence Committee Chairman Sen. Richard Burr, a North Carolina Republican, signed off on the subpoena, injecting a new source of tension into the relationship between Congress and the White House Rep. Kevin McCarthy, the highest ranking House Republican, blasted Burr in a tweet saying Don Jr. should be left alone The president tweeted a Republican Party video of Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell saying 'case closed' about Russia probes '@DonaldJTrumpJr has already spent dozens of hours testifying in front of Congressional committees. Endless investigations by either party won't change the fact that there was NO collusion,' House Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy tweeted Wednesday evening. 'It's time to move on. Its time to focus on ISSUES, not investigations.' Kentucky Republican Sen. Rand Paul tweeted: 'Apparently the Republican chair of the Senate Intel Committee didnt get the memo from the Majority Leader that this case was closed.' New York Republican Rep. Lee Zeldin chimed in Wednesday night, saying in a tweet that it was '[w]eak & ridiculous for [the] Senate to perpetuate the Russia Collusion Delusion by continuing to harass @DonaldJTrumpJr. They should NOT be taking orders from unhinged resistance Dems.' GOP operative Arthur Schwartz, an adviser to Don Jr., signaled later that Trump allies could put pressure on McConnell to discipline Burr for crossing swords with the president's family. 'The Senate Intel chair is appointed by the leader. The buck stops with him,' Schwartz tweeted. Kentucky Republican Sen. Rand Paul backed Don Jr. on Wednesday night in a tweet suggesting Burr should stand down The subpoena from Burr's committee came to Don Jr. 'a few weeks ago,' according to a source with knowledge of the unfolding situation He escalated tensions Thursday morning by suggesting Burr is a 'coward.' CNN anchor Jake Tapper observed in a tweet that an unnamed Don Jr. defender had branded Burr 'too cowardly to stand up to his boss Mark Warner.' Warner is the Intelligence Committee's ranking Democrat. 'Anonymous source close to Don Jr. calls Sen. Burr a coward,' tapper tweeted. 'Ill say it on the record,' Schwartz replied. Initial news reports on Wednesday suggested the Senate subpoena concerned the ill-fated Trump Tower Moscow, a 2015-2016 real estate venture helmed by President Donald Trump's former attorney Michael Cohen. The Washington Post quoted a person familiar with the subpoena saying it 'exasperated' Don Jr. Cohen reported to federal prison on Monday to serve a three-year sentence for fraud, and for lying to Congress in November about how long into the 2016 presidential campaign the project survived as a going concern. Don Jr. adviser Arthur Schwartz openly called Burr a coward in a tweeted exchange with Jake Tapper on Thursday morning An architect's drawing of Trump Tower Moscow first published by Buzzfeed showed a glass obelisk 100 stories high and was branded with Donald Trump's logo The proposed Trump Tower Moscow would have been the tallest building in Europe Don Jr. testified about the proposed skyscraper in a closed 2017 Senate Judiciary Committee session. A transcript released later shows that he claimed to have been only 'peripherally aware of it' and knew 'very little' about its progress. A committee spokesman told Axios that committee leaders have 'reserved the right to recall witnesses for additional testimony as needed, as every witness and tness counsel has been made aware.' Republican chairman Richard Burr and ranking Democrat Mark Warner of Virginia are known as bipartisan operators. They have run their own Russia-related investigation in parallel with Special Counsel Robert Mueller's probe. A second source, one close to Don Jr., told DailyMail.com shortly after the news broke: 'Don is a private citizen, who has already been cleared by Mueller after a two year investigation. He has done 8-9 hours of testimony in front of Senate Intel already and 27 hours of testimony in front of various committees in total.' 'When he originally agreed to testify in front of the Senate Intel Committee in 2017, there was an agreement between Don and the Committee that he would only have to come in and testify a single time as long as he was willing to stay for as long as theyd like, which Don did,' the insider added. 'Don continues to cooperate by producing documents and is willing to answer written questions, but no lawyer would ever agree to allow their client to participate in what is an obvious PR stunt from a so-called Republican Senator too cowardly to stand up to his boss Mark Warner and the rest of the resistance Democrats on the committee.' Axios speculated that the subpoena is an indication that Don Jr. 'declined a request to appear' for more testimony. Cohen told the House Oversight Committee in February that he briefed the president's eldest son and Ivanka Trump at least 10 times about Trump Tower Moscow. Ivanka Trump (2nd left), Eric Trump (2nd right) and Donald Trump Jr. (right) are pictured in an undate dphoto during a trip to Moscow He told the Senate panel in November that the project had been discarded by the time the future president was competing in the 2016 Iowa Caucuses, saying later that he lied to be consistent with Trump's 'political messaging.' In reality, conversations continued about the tower concept through the fall of 2016, when Donald Trump Sr. was already the GOP presidential nominee. In a January Fox News interview, Don Jr. said the concept and its partial execution were all Cohen's doing, painting the disgraced lawyer as a self-promoter who wanted to deliver a finished product that he could take credit for. 'We don't know anything about it. Ultimately, it was Michael Cohen essentially trying to get a deal done,' he said then. Don Jr.'s inner circle has spent the first half of the week fending off requests from Republican Donors and former White House official Steve Bannon for him to run for U.S. Senate in Wyoming. Sen. Mike Enzi will retire at the end of 2020. The president's son has no interest in running, his advisers said. A Florida law enforcement officer is being praised for way he treated a little boy who called 911 asking for a friend because he was lonely. The boy, who has not been named, phoned the emergency operator on Tuesday from his family home in Tallahassee, Florida, without his mother's knowledge after they had a verbal disagreement, police told DailyMail.com. The Tallahassee Police Department said she was surprised when a cop, named as Officer White, arrived at the house to play with the boy and teach him the proper use for calling 911. The police department shared touching photographs of their encounter on Facebook where dozens commented to praise Officer White for his kindness. 'From our Patrol Bureau: Sometimes we respond to a 911 call and it's a great opportunity for something positive!,' TPD wrote on Facebook. 'Officer Joe White responded to a 911 call where a 6 year old was upset & called 911. A six-year-old Florida boy called 911 and Officer White responded to the scene. The child, who has not been named, told the cop he called because he was upset and feeling lonely The boy's mother had no idea he had called police and was stunned when White arrived in his cruiser 'Officer White arrived to meet the callera child who said he was lonely and wanted a friend. He asked Officer White if he would be his friend.' The child's mother was home at the time but he told cops she had been mean to him. TPD public information officers told DailyMail.com that his brothers were also inside the home at the time. But it seems the youngster wanted other options. While some might see the encounter as a waste of police time, Officer White turned it into a positive learning experience rather than carrying out a negative telling off. The Tallahassee Police Department elaborated that it was a good lesson learned for both the youngster and perhaps the general public too. 'Officer White took the time to explain how 911 is used and how it's for emergencies,' they explained in the social media post. The law enforcement officer even stuck around to show the child more about what life on the force is like. His department added that instead of making the boy feel bad he ended up presenting him with a gift that might make him feel a little less lonely when it comes to playtime. The boy got to sit in the police vehicle and was given a stuffed animal. He asked White if he would be his friend to which he said he'd be happy to The youngster also got to sit in the patrol car and got to spend some time with the kind cop who gave him a stuffed animal. 'More importantly, Officer White said he'd be happy to be a friend,' TPD captioned a collection of images from the encounter. 'Our new friend got to sit in the police vehicle, was given a stuffed animal and now has a friend at the Tallahassee Police Department!' The photographs show the pair grinning together. '#GoodNews Here's Officer Joe White & his new friend who called 911 without his mom knowing,' they shared in a later update on their page. 'Officer White said he'd always be a friend! We have a new friend! #positiveencounters #mentoring #communitypolicing.' All was well with the child. The 911 operator said he simply wanted to chat. 'He just wanted to talk about different things. We learned we both like watching Dinotrux,' she told WCTV. It was a surprising outcome for her as she often has to deal with negative incidents. 'When children call we kind of navigate if we should talk to the parents, what we should ask them. We try to find out out what's going on,' she explained. But on this occasion she cried purely because the encounter was so innocent and a rare one she was grateful to have. 'Normally you force yourself not to carry it home, shed a tear and hope you forget. But on that day, it was different. It was let it carry me home with a smile, shed a tear and hope I never forget.' Many people commenting on Facebook said they planned to reach out to the boy for playdates The TPD posts garnered hundreds of shares and likes plus thousands of comments from the proud community. 'Thank you Officer White! A new Friendship...something positive for a change. What a handsome young friend!' one person commented. Another wrote: 'So stinking cute! Kids need to know not all officers are bad!' It even inspired followers to reach out to the boy. One said they planned on sending him a card. Others saw it as an opportunity to arrange a playdate. One person wrote: 'How sweet!!! My kiddos would love to be his friends!' Another said: 'My 6 year old would love for him to visit our little farm and play with him and be his friend... Tpd.... Message me and he can play with Billy the kid too... This little goat we got from lcso..' The TPD spokesperson said he was simply 'being a kid'. And while they have received many positive responses, there were the usual negative comments too. 'A lot of people have assumed he was home alone but he was just being a kid. We actually get a lot of call like this,' Public Information Officer, Damon Miller, told DailyMail.com. His colleague Rachelle Denmark told DailyMail.com: 'In watching the body worn camera footage, there was no indication of any bullying or lack of friends. The young man was upset because his mother was making him do something he didnt want to do such as play calmly in his room or clean his room.' Denmark agreed that the sometimes kids will be kids. 'It wasnt an unusual request for a mother of her son but as children, we sometimes dont want to do what our parents tell us to do. His older brother is in his late teens (large age difference) so the young child was wanting a friend,' Denmark continued to DailyMail.com. 'His mother was surprised he called 911 but was home with the young child. We were happy to talk to him and show him our police car, give him a stuffed animal and tell him wed be his friend. 'The officer spent time talking to the child about the purpose of a 911 call and what constitutes an emergency. His mother seemed appreciative of the time we took with the child and explaining the use of 911.' A woman in north China has filed a police report after discovering that her massage session was live-streamed to a man on a phone. The woman, identified by her surname Li, said she was half naked during a massage at the Xiyue Life Spa in Wuhan, Hebei province when she suddenly noticed the camera of an iPhone X pointing at her. The spa customer claimed that the mobile phone was connected to a video call and she saw a man naked from the waist up on the other end, according to Chinese reports. The woman, surnamed Li, said she was half naked during a massage at the Xiyue Life Spa in Wuhan, Hebei province when she suddenly noticed the camera of a phone pointing at her A manager of the Xiyue Life Spa, surnamed Chen, said the masseuse was an intern and had violated the no-phone rule in the massage room. However, the filming was unintentional Li immediately confiscated the phone and alerted police on Monday, Chutian Metropolis Daily reported. The woman first shared her horrifying experience in an online review of the shop and screenshots of the account quickly went viral. 'During the process of gathering evidence, even the officers were shocked to discover the video chat had lasted 30 minutes and 33 seconds,' she wrote. 'My spa session was being live-streamed,' she said. The woman first shared her horrifying experience in an online review of the shop and screenshots of the account quickly went viral. Police are currently investigating The female customer had demanded a compensation of 100,000 yuan but the spa wouldn't agree to the amount, according to Red Star News 'They wanted to settle the matter with 20,000 yuan (2,256) but their attitude was horrible. So I posted my experience online,' she told reporters. 'They said the masseuse, who was under 16, couldn't be held legally responsible.' A manager of the spa, surnamed Chen, said the masseuse was an intern and had violated the no-phone rule in the massage room. She had forgotten to end the video chat after entering the room and didn't realise it was still on until the customer heard a noise from the phone. Li had demanded a compensation of 100,000 yuan but the spa wouldn't agree to the amount, according to Red Star News. Police said they are currently investigating the case. A man who faked his own suicide to avoid jail for child pornography and child molestation charges has been arrested after being found living in a storage container in Florida. Michael Patrick Manning, 58, from Chico, California, was arrested on May 3 after triggering the alarm of a business where he was sleeping in Stock Island Marina in Key West Florida. He is awaiting extradition to California on no-bail warrants, according to the Chico Police Department. Manning has been on the run since 2015 when he pleaded no contest to oral copulation of a person under 14, possession of more than 600 images of child and youth pornography. He also faced two counts of solicitation of a minor to engage in the preparation of sexual images, police said in a statement. Michael Patrick Manning, 58, from Chico, allegedly faked his own suicide to avoid jail for child pornography and child molestation. He was found living in a storage container in Florida and was taken into custody earlier this month. A booking photo shows him on May 3, 2019 The victim reported she was sexually assaulted by Manning when she was 12 to 14 years of age. Detectives developed evidence and probable cause to support the victims allegations. He was supposed to be sentenced October 6, 2016, but failed to appear in court. A car rented in his name was found a day after the scheduled hearing by National Park Service officers near the Golden Gate Bridge, along with a suicide note in his handwriting. However Manning's body was never found, which prompted a wide-scale search involving Chico Police Detectives, the United States Marshals Service Fugitive Task Force and the FBI. Detectives began to investigate a close associate of Manning's and found what appeared to be 'sophisticated counter surveillance measures' by him. Police searched for him in Chico, Yuba City, Sacramento, San Francisco, Berkeley, Oakland, and Alameda. Residences, storage facilities, and vehicles linked to Manning's associate were frequently found full of personal property and then abandoned. Manning was arrested and booked on two counts of solicitation of a minor to engage in the preparation of sexual images and possession of child pornography in September 2015 but failed to show up for sentencing. He is pictured here in a Butte County Sheriff booking photo in September 3, 2015 Investigators believed that on multiple occasions they narrowly missed apprehending Manning, including when he was believed to be at the Fortman Marina in Alameda, California. Last month, the U.S. Marshals Service received leads that Manning could be in Florida, the Chico. They found him after responding to a burglary alarm at a business on the Stock Island Marina in Key West Florida. He was arrested by Monroe County Sheriffs deputies, who found him living in a conex storage container. After a wide-scale search, cops found Manning living in a connex storage container similar to the one pictured after responding to a burglary alarm at a nearby business in Key West Manning was found living in a connex storage container at Stock Island Marina, (pictured) Manning had identified himself as a man called William Wallace Littlejohn and had a fake U.S. passport and U.S. Navy identification card. While in the Monroe County Jail, the suspect underwent fingerprint analysis and was positively identified as Michael Manning. He now remains in custody on no-bail warrants awaiting extradition to California. The original charges were brought against Manning following an investigation in September 2015 when a victim reported being sexually assaulted in 2008-2009 when she was 12 to 14 years old. Search warrants served at Mannings home turned up child pornography. He was arrested and booked on four charges including child sex assault. But he posted bail and was released from Butte County Jail. He was then was out of custody on bail but failed to appear in court and a bench warrant was issued for his arrest on September 6 2016. Maleah Davis' biological father is demanding answers from the four-year-old's stepdad after police said the man has changed his story multiple times in the hours after he reported her missing. The four-year-old has been missing since Friday night after her stepfather, Darion Vence, claimed the child was abducted by three Hispanic men. Craig Davis, Maleah's father, said Tuesday that he's 'not putting the blame on anybody'. 'I just need the questions that aren't answered to be answered. There are so many unanswered questions. 'It's not for the police to answer them for me. It's not for the news to answer them for me. It's for Darion to answer for me,' Davis told ABC 13. Scroll down for video Maleah Davis' biological father, Craig Davis (pictured), is demanding answers from the four-year-old's stepdad, Darion Vence, after police said Vence has changed his story multiple times in the hours after he reported the four-year-old missing Vence, 26, appeared in a hospital on Saturday night with injuries (left) claiming he had spent the last 24 hours in captivity and that when he woke up, Maleah was gone Police said Vence's story has changed several times since he reported Maleah missing on Saturday. Vence, 26, walked into a Houston hospital with his unharmed one-year-old son, claiming that they had spent the previous 24 hours being held captive by Hispanic men who took Maleah. He had visible injuries and officers say 'something clearly happened to him' but details of his story about how Maleah was snatched did not make sense, according to the police department which was first on the scene. 'During our initial interview that he provided, his story changed several times, some of what he described didn't add up,' Doug Adolph, the spokesman for the Sugar Land Police Department, told DailyMail.com on Wednesday. Davis (left, with Maleah) said Tuesday that he's 'not putting the blame on anybody'. He said he just needs answers that only Darion can 'answer for me' Police said Vence's (pictured with Maleah and his one-year-old son) story has changed several times since he reported Maleah missing on Saturday Vence has not been arrested and the hunt for Maleah continues. Sugar Land is not leading the investigation. It turned it over to the Houston Police Department when officers determined that what Vence described happened out of their jurisdiction. Despite reports to the contrary, the police department denied that he was a person of interest when contacted by DailyMail.com on Wednesday. According to Vence, he was driving with Maleah and his son in his car on Friday to pick up her mother, Brittany Bowens, from the airport when he heard a noise and pulled over. Out of nowhere, he said three Hispanic males appeared, said that Maleah looked 'nice' and then hit Vence over the head, knocking him unconscious. He claims that for the next 24 hours, he slipped in and out of consciousness while they drove the three of them around. This is the car Vence was driving when he says the three Hispanic assailants attacked him out of nowhere On Tuesday, it was revealed that Maleah had been removed from her mother's care over allegations of physical abuse. But her mother, Brittany Bowens, insists that she got the wound in a fall. Bowens is seen campaigning for information about Maleah's whereabouts Vence said he woke up on the side of the road around 6pm Saturday evening next to his son but with no sign of Maleah. That is when he went to the hospital in Sugar Land to report the incident. Questions surrounding Maleah's home life have emerged ever since she went missing. The search for Maleah was rained off on Wednesday and will resume when the weather has improved On Tuesday, it was revealed that she had been removed from her mother's care over allegations of physical abuse. According to records, it was to do with a brain injury which she had to have surgery for this March. Bowens insists that she got the wound in a fall. She resumed custody of her in February this year. Since she disappeared, Bowens has made an emotional plea for her daughter's safe return. The search for Maleah was rained off on Wednesday and will resume when the weather has improved. Police however shared photographs of a a silver Nissan that Vence says she was taken from that he claims was stolen from him. Maleah's dad, Craig, described the youngster as strong and determined. 'Even in pain, even in her injury, my daughter went through everything she went through and it did not change anything about her,' he said. Anyone with information on Maleah Davis' whereabouts is urged to contact HPD at 713-308-3600 or Crime Stoppers at 713-222-TIPS. The wife of former Parramatta Eels CEO, Denis Fitzgerald, who mowed down a family of four while she driving drunk and texting on her way to buy cigarettes has pleaded guilty. Lisa Mottram, 50, was twice the legal blood alcohol limit when she ploughed into a family, while driving her white Honda CRV in Kellyville's Hezlett Road in Sydney's north-west on September 16. A four-year-old girl suffered severe injuries to her brain and lungs and still remains unconscious in hospital nearly eight months after the accident. The girl's aunt, 55, faces being a paraplegic after she suffered internal and spinal injuries. Scroll down for video The wife of former footy CEO Lisa Mottram (pictured) has pleaded guilty to mowing down a family of four while driving drunk and texting Mottram (pictured left with husband Denis Fitzgerald) was twice the legal blood alcohol limit Mottram, a hairdresser, had been drinking with a friend at the Fiddler in Rouse Hill in the evening. The mother-of-one was dropped off at her Melrose Park home, before she left the house at 9.30pm and drove her SUV to buy cigarettes from a shopping centre. Mottram was texting a man she was intimately involved with and had plans to meet him, according to police, 9News reported. The 50-year-old has been separated from Mr Fitzgerald for over two years. One minute after she had gotten into her SUV, CCTV footage shows the car lose control, swinging around the corner hitting a 44-year-old mother, a 45-year-old father, a four-year-old girl and 55-year-old aunt. The mother-of-one drove her white SUV (pictured) to boy cigarettes from a shopping centre Mottram was texting a man she was intimately involved with and had plans to meet him, according to police The girl's mother suffered facial injuries, a broken arm and a pelvic fracture, while the father was treated for non-life threatening injuries. Emergency authorities airlifted the four-year-old to a hospital in Hong Kong, where she remains. Doctors say there is a high possibility the aunt won't be able to move her lower limbs again. The family off four were tourists from Hong Kong visiting Sydney. Loved ones say the parents are still finding it difficult to cope with the traumatic experience, as the father struggles to deal with his emotions. The incident occurred just 300 metres from Mottram's house. Mottram will front court again in June. Two California police officers who shot a suspect a shocking 76 times who was hallucinating on drugs and armed with a BB gun will not face any criminal charges, authorities announced Wednesday. Anaheim officers Sean Staymates and Kevin Pederson fired dozens of shots at 50-year-old Eliuth Penazola Nava, killing him on July 21, 2018. The officers chased after Nava who was driving a white pick-up truck after his brother had reported he was armed and hallucinating on drugs. Nava was found in possession of a BB gun, not a shotgun. Nava was brutally shot at least nine times in the head, neck and upper body, according to the police report. Pederson had fired 64 shots and Staymates fired a dozen. An autopsy revealed Nava, who has a lengthy criminal history, was under the influence of amphetamines and methamphetamine, according to NBC. California police officers Sean Staymates and Kevin Pederson who shot 50-year-old Eliuth Penazola Nava 76 times on July 21, 2018, will not face criminal charges for the fatal shooting The officers chased after Nava who was driving a white pick-up truck after his brother had reported he was armed and hallucinating on an unknown drug. Nava was found in possession of a BB gun, not a shotgun Nava was brutally shot at least nine times in the head, neck and upper body, according to the police report. Pederson had fired 64 shots and Staymates fired a dozen An autopsy revealed Nava, who has a lengthy criminal history, was under the influence of amphetamines and methamphetamine at the time of shooting After he was shot and stopped moving cops dragged his boy out of his white pick-up truck. Nava pictured blurred crumpled on the ground Disturbing video of the horrific attack shows the officers release the merciless hail of bullets and dragging Nava's body out of the driver's seat and collapse on the ground. The District Attorney's Office declined to file criminal charges against the two officers but called the shooting 'alarming' and 'irresponsible'. Following the incident Pedersen was fired last July and Staymates will be disciplined, the city's police chief Jorge Cisneros announced Wednesday. At the time of the shooting Kevin Pedersen, who was fired, was in a first year probationary period. Staymates has been served with 'an intent to discipline notice'. Pedersen's 'overall performance fell far short of what the department and community expects,' Cisneros told reporters. On the morning of the shooting Nava's family went to check on him and saw he had a gun in his car. In the days prior he had been 'acting strange' according to Deputy District Attorney Scott Woolridge. Disturbing video of the horrific attack shows the officers release the merciless hail of bullets and dragging Nava's body out of the driver's seat and collapse on the ground At the time of the shooting Kevin Pedersen, who was fired, was in a first year probationary period. Staymates has been served with 'an intent to discipline notice' Pedersen's 'overall performance fell far short of what the department and community expects,' Police Chief Cisneros said One of his brothers - with whom he didn't get along and previously attacked - called police saying Nava was hallucinating under the influence of a drug and had drugs and a knife in his Chevrolet pick-up truck. Nava has a history with drug abuse and his parents feared he was abusing drugs again when the family called police. Pederson, who was behind the wheel, and Staymates were dispatched to the house. When they arrived Nava drove away from them, launching a police chase. In footage of the chase a cop Pedersen says, 'Get ready, dude, he just rolled down the window. He's reaching,' allegedly seeing Nava bring out a gun that appeared to be a glock, according to the report. Pederson tried to ram into Nava's truck and fired seven rounds through the front windshield of the police car toward's Nava's car. The chase continued and he blasted six more rounds. He claims he shot Nava in fear that he'd shoot civilians. As Pederson reloaded his gun, he told his partner to open fire. Nava appeared to be wounded in the pursuit. Finally the chase ended up back at his home. According to the police report Nava 'did not put his hands up in the air, or give any indication that he was surrendering'. On Wednesday the DA's office concluded that the officers 'were justified in believing that Nava posed a significant threat of death or serious physical injury to both officers and to others' After continued gunfire, the officers dragged the suspect out of the truck and kicked Nava's gun away. According to the report a knife was found in Nava's right hand Nava's bullet-ridden white pick-up truck pictured above after the deadly shooting Fearing he'd shoot them, Staymates opened fire shooting the back of the pick-up truck eight times. When Nava started to exit the truck, Pederson hit four rounds at him then Staymates fired another four rounds at him. After continued gunfire, the officers dragged the suspect out of the truck and kicked Nava's gun away. According to the report a knife was found in Nava's right hand. He was pronounced dead at 10.12am at UC Irvine Medical Center in Orange. His 'gun' was a CO2-powered air pistol that resembled a 9mm Luger pistol. Nava had a criminal history dating back to 1997 that spanned domestic violence, assault with a deadly weapon, resisting arrest, smuggling drugs into jail, and driving under the influence of drugs. Anaheim police chief Jorge Cisneros (pictured above in 2018) announced Wednesday no criminal charges would be filed against the officers Cops concluded that the officers 'were justified in believing that Nava posed a significant threat of death or serious physical injury to both officers and to others.' Anaheim Mayor Harry Sidhu slammed the fatal incident as 'disturbing'. 'I share the disappointment of all who have seen this video,' Sidhu said. 'Whatever led to this incident, a loss of life is tragic and my heart goes out to the family as they see the loss of their loved one in the video.' He said that though the video is 'unsettling' the city 'has taken a major step forward in how we share information about public safety.' The Anaheim Police Department has given officers additional training since December. Cisneros said that out of 200,000 police encounters last year '99.9 percent resulted in a peaceful resolution without the use of force.' Bingo players in Canada got more than they bargained for at a supposedly family-friendly game on Monday evening. One of the TV screens at Carnival Bingo in Prince Albert suddenly started playing a hardcore pornographic video. A woman who was there with her mother and sister-in-law recorded the blunder on her phone. Patrons of the Carnival Bingo in Prince Albert, Canada got an unexpected eyeful (explicit images blurred) during Monday's game. Some saw the funny side, with one onlooker saying: 'My sister later won bingo so you can say she got lucky twice' Her video shows unwitting onlookers laugh and look around in shock as the explicit images are broadcast on the TV monitor. The patrons are mainly elderly, but there also appears to be a child with its back turned to the offending screen. The woman posted the video on social media, where it was shared extensively, commenting: 'When you're asked to go play bingo but yet you go for this instead.' The bingo hall has blamed a security hack. 'We had some new technology installed in the building and had a bit of a security breach with that technology,' Carnival Bingo Manager Todd Bernier told paNOW. 'Weve since had that corrected.' A woman recorded onlookers' reactions. The bingo hall is meant to be a family-friendly venue and there appears to be a child in the room Carnival Bingo has blamed a security hack of its newly-installed technology and is investigating the incident Bernier said the matter had been reported to police and there was an investigation into how exactly the porn came to be broadcast in the hall. He was not aware of any children being exposed to the indecent video. The manager said his company had received several phone calls about the incident, but 'everyones been very understanding'. A patron who was there on Monday evening, Anna Merasty, saw the funny side of things. 'My sister later won bingo so you can say she got lucky twice.' The headlines made me laugh out loud. Madonna goes incognito at JFK airport in a burka. Yeah, right. Madonna did not go incognito. She never goes incognito anywhere. And on this occasion, she was about as cognito as any human being has ever been. Madonna wore a burka as she walked through one of the worlds most famous airports, not from any desire for anonymity but from a craven desire to be spotted. She put on the burka because she wanted the whole world to see her in a burka. She knew exactly what she was doing, because its the same thing shes been doing for 40 years: shameless attention-seeking. Going cognito: Madonna wore a burka as she walked through JFK airport, not from any desire for anonymity but from a craven desire to be spotted When I stopped laughing at the headlines, I suddenly realized that her latest publicity-grabbing move wasnt actually very funny at all. It was actually grotesquely offensive Only this time, when I stopped laughing at the headlines, I suddenly realized that her latest publicity-grabbing move wasnt actually very funny at all. It was actually grotesquely offensive. Why was Madonna mocking Muslims in this manner? Why is there not more outrage about Madonna mocking Muslims in this manner? Spare me any guff about her wanting to shine a light on oppressed Muslim women forced to wear burkas. Even if that were her motivation, and Im sure shell say it was, it would be absurd virtue-signalling bullsh*t. No, thats not why she did it. Madonna sported a burka to JFK because she has a new tour coming up and wants to promote it. So shes fallen back on her old tried-and-tested PR playbook of doing something offensive and outlandish to attract media attention. And if that means mocking Muslim women to rack up the cash registers, so be it. Of course, attacking religion for publicity is nothing new for Madonna. For many years she has mercilessly lampooned my own religion and supposedly hers - of Catholicism, including staging a horribly blasphemous mock-crucifixion when she performed in Italy near the Vatican, an act that incurred a rare statement of fury from a cardinal on behalf of then Pope Benedict XVI, demanding she be excommunicated from the Catholic Church. But this seems a particularly vile and inappropriate time to now turn her ridiculing turrets onto Islam. Being a Muslim woman who wears a burka in America can have never felt more uncomfortable than it does today. Ever since 9/11, there has been a tremendous added attention and pressure on all American Muslims, and an unsavory suspicion on anyone who looks Muslim. This tension was exacerbated by the wars in Iraq, Afghanistan and Syria, and the rise of ISIS, the very worst of Islamist terrorists. Muslims have grown to be widely seen as the enemy of America, despite the fact that over five million Muslims live perfectly peacefully in America, and more people are killed by guns every month in the U.S. then have been EVER been killed by Muslim terrorists. Of course, Donald Trumps very ill-advised and disgraceful call as a presidential candidate for a short-term ban on ALL Muslims entering the United States made life even more difficult for Muslims already living in the country. There used to be a time when Madonnas antics, like her stage performances, were fresh, innovative and exciting. Now they just seem tired, tortuous and tedious like when she exposed her breast on-stage in Turkey (left), and pretended to shoot people with fake guns (right) So for Madonna to now openly mock Muslim women in this way, just to flog tour tickets, is despicable. Its also a sad indication of just how desperate she has become to stay relevant since turning 60. Part of it is driven by a desperate need to pretend shes the female Benjamin Button; she dates gormless 20-year-old toy-boys, wears hideous mouth grilles to restaurants, and posts Instagram photographs of Nike-tattooed vaginas. Part of is driven by a desperate need to senselessly shock for the sake of it; on her last tour, Madonna pretended to shoot people with fake guns on stage in Colorado where America has seen some of its worst mass shootings, deliberately exposed her breasts at a concert in religiously conservative Turkey, and brandished Nazi swastikas in Paris. Madonna's fallen back on her old tried-and-tested PR playbook of doing something offensive and outlandish to attract media attention. In 2012, she brandished Nazi swastikas in Paris Boy Toys: Madonna's behavior is driven by a desperate need to pretend shes the female Benjamin Button; she dates gormless 20-year-old toy-boys (pictured above with Brahim Zaibat in 2013, left, and Kevin Sampio who she first met when she kissed him in a music video) And wears hideous mouth grilles to restaurants (as seen above in 2013) And part of it is a desperate need to stay current; this includes her sticking her mouthy gob into every political issue going, including her ruinous hi-jacking of the first Womens March in January 2017, after Trump was elected President, when she said she dreamed of blowing up the White House. There used to be a time when Madonnas antics, like her stage performances, were fresh, innovative and exciting. Now they just seem tired, tortuous and tedious. Contrary to popular myth, and certainly contrary to how Madonna conducts herself, theres a perfectly easy way for a famous woman to reach 60 and still be perceived as cool and sexy. Just look at Sharon Stones stunning photos in the new issue of Portugals Vogue magazine. Recreating her famous Basic instinct pose and lying topless in the water could have been a tacky mistake. But the pictures, taken by a top photographer, are beautifully classy, and so is the interview that accompanies them. Sharon Stone is the perfect illustration of a Hollywood beauty that understands the rare power of ageing gracefully. Shes smart, sassy, sexy and supremely self-confident in her 61-year-old body. Shes shunned the ever-more-popular plastic surgery route to eternal fake youth because she knows its a false idol. Ava Gardner as the most beautiful woman in the world, Stone once said, and its wonderful that she didnt cut up her face. She addressed ageing by picking up her chin and receiving the light in a better way. And she looked like a woman. She never tried to look like a girl. Sharon Stone doesnt feel a burning need to be outrageous every second of every day in some demented campaign to reverse the ageing process, because she knows she doesnt need to. As a result, she commands almost universal respect and admiration as a terrific role model to all women. Sharon Stone is the perfect illustration of a Hollywood beauty that understands the rare power of ageing gracefully. Recreating her famous Basic instinct pose for Portuguese Vogue could have been a tacky mistake but the pictures are beautifully classy, and so is the interview that accompanies them Sharon Stone in the 1992 movie Basic Instinct. She has shunned the ever-more-popular plastic surgery route to eternal fake youth because she knows its a false idol Madonna, sadly, just looks every more desperate to still be the hot young profane rebel who exploded onto the world music scene nearly four decades ago. She cant grow old gracefully because she doesnt have a graceful bone in her surgically enhanced body. But the more she frantically screams IVE STILL GOT IT! the less shes actually still got it and the more humiliatingly irrelevant she becomes. This Muslim-mocking stunt is a new low, even by her low standards. It manages to be the very worst kind of cultural appropriation, the very worst kind of casual religious taunting, AND the very worst kind of publicity scam. On every level, its toe-curling and offensive. Whos that girl? Shes now an embarrassing 60-year-old woman pitifully pretending shes still a girl. A once young Material Girl whos now fast becoming an Old Immaterial Girl. Grow up, Madonna. Or you really will render yourself incognito permanently. A 21-year-old Georgia woman accused of shooting and killing a 62-year-old man on a busy highway in an attempt to stop him from leaving the scene of a minor hit-and-run crash called 911 and claimed that it was the victim who pulled the trigger. An emotional Hannah Payne appeared in court on Wednesday to be arraigned on a charge of murder without malice in Tuesday's shooting death of Kenneth Herring near the intersection of Riverdale Road and Forest Parkway. Payne's lawyer, Matt Tucker, argued that the shooting was in self-defense and described his client as a 'Good Samaritan' for blocking Herring's pickup truck with her Jeep after witnessing the man strike a semi-truck and make an attempt to drive away at around 6.15pm. Scroll down for video Hannah Payne, 21 (left), has been charged with murder without malice in the shooting death of 62-year-old Kenneth Herring (right) on a Georgia highway Clayton County police testified that an altercation between Payne, who was armed with a 9mm gun, and Herring ended with the man fatally shot in the stomach. Maj. Anthony Thuman told the court the earlier hit-and-run involving Herring's vehicle did not cause extensive damage and no one was injured. He also revealed that Payne is licensed to carry a gun. Witness Nicole Jackson told WSB-TV she saw the 5-foot-7, 190-pound Payne grappling with the 62-year-old grandfather and ordering him to 'get out of the car.' 'All of a sudden you hear a "pow," and she got on her phone immediately and was like, "He pulled the trigger,"' Jackson said. According to police, it was Payne who called 911 to summon help. Herring's estranged wife, Christine, told the station that the fact that Payne got out of her Jeep and confronted her husband means that she did not feel like she was in any danger. 'I think she needs to go to jail because she committed murder,' Christine Herring said. Herring is survived by a step-daughter and at least two step-grandchildren. Payne's attorney argued that the Fayetteville resident was in fear for her life and pulled the trigger as she and Herring wrestled for control of the gun. Police in Georgia say Payne shot Herring in the stomach after blocking his Dodge pickup truck with her Jeep after a crash Tuesday (pictured) Herring allegedly struck a semi near the intersection of Riverdale Road and Forest Parkway in Clayton County and tried to leave, but was blocked by Payne's Jee He [victim] had a ripped shirt, she had scratch marks on her, she had a mark on her face, Tucker told WSB-TV after the hearing. 'There should be prints of his and hers on the gun. According to the lawyer, the two got into a verbal confrontation, which escalated and turned physical, with Herring allegedly trying to pull Payne into his truck. 'She felt that she needed to pull that gun to defend herself, and it went off,' Tucker said. An eyewitness reported seeing Payne change clothes right after allegedly shooting the man A witness who wished to remain anonymous told WSB that the woman was seen purportedly throwing punches at Herring and repeatedly yelling him, 'Get out of the car!' The eyewitness reported that after shooting Herring in the abdomen, Payne immediately changed her clothes. She had a bad girl vest on, but after she shot him, she ran in the car, changed clothes, she put a pink little sweater on, he recounted. The victim was rushed to an area hospital, where he died from his injuries. On Wednesday, a judge denied Payne's request for bond. She is due back in court for a preliminary hearing on May 28. Christine Delcros and Xavier Thomas pictured on their sightseeing tour of London which ended in tragedy The girlfriend of the first victim of the London Bridge attack has told his inquest she had a 'premonition' they would be caught by terrorists. Christine Delcros was walking on the bridge with father-of-two Xavier Thomas, 44, when they were mowed down by terrorists on the evening of June 3, 2017. Isis fanatics Khuram Butt, 27, Rachid Redouane, 30, and Youssef Zaghba, 22, ploughed into pedestrians in a 2.5 tonne Renault van. Ms Delcros was badly injured, and now uses a walking stick, while Mr Thomas, 44, was catapulted over the balustrade and into the Thames. The Frenchman was found drowned three days later. The French couple had called their children as they walked to the Shard because they were so worried about terror attacks. Ms Delcros told the court she and her boyfriend had travelled by Eurostar for a weekend of sightseeing in London on June 3. At 9.30pm they had decided to walk from their hotel, the Four Seasons in London Bridge, to have a cocktail in the Shard. Mr Thomas had been tired but rejected the suggestion of going another night, she said. Miss Delcros, 46, broke down as she relived the moment the vehicle crashed into her and partner. Christine Delcros (centre, with cane), girlfriend of victim Xavier Thomas, arriving at the inquest into the London Bridge terror attack which took place in June 2017 'I told him I did not know. I had so many premonitions about terror attacks from the day before and I could feel it. 'But I did not tell him, in fact, and to please me he started searching on his phone for another place but it is late now. He said, ''that's OK, it's a magnificent view'', and he had planned everything properly accordingly and not to disappoint him I said OK. 'I just called my daughter and he has a younger son so he called his son and after that we went. After that I do not remember at the time of the van.' Ms Delcros said she remembered being on the bridge and had the feeling that something was 'not normal'. 'Suddenly I was under the impression there was a lot of light and a van that mounted the pavement in the exact fashion to make sure they were not going to miss us. 'I just heard myself say to myself, ''that's how one dies, that's it''.' Crying, she went on: 'I thought that I had died, that the curtain had fallen. To me I was dead. I said to myself that's how one dies and I have no recollection of the crash. 'It was only light when I woke up.' Ms Delcros said a man came to help her and held her head as she regained consciousness. She said: 'Once I regained consciousness I asked, "where's Xavier?". He tried to look for him but he could not find him. I ordered him to look for him.' Khuram Butt walked over to the still-running tap, ran his knife under it to clean off the blood, and wiped it, first on one side of his face, then the other. He was shot dead by police Rachid Redouane, 30, and Youssef Zaghba, 22, were also shot dead by police Marine Police face criticism over 'hasty search' for Xavier Thomas, quickly abandoned A marine police officer was diverted from the river search for a victim of the London Bridge terror attack after concluding he was 'probably lost', the inquest heard. Police and lifeboats were deployed to the scene after Xavier Thomas, 45, was hit by the terrorists' hire van and catapulted into the Thames, the Old Bailey heard. The Frenchman's body was not recovered until three days later. He died from immersion in the water. PC Nicholas Bultitude and his crew carried out what is known as a 'hasty search' having arrived first, just three minutes after reports of a person in the water. He later diverted away from the more structured search with lifeboats so he could warn crowds on the south bank of the danger. Mr Bultitude said it was not practicable to seek approval for the move but there was evidence he informed the coastguard. He went on to escort injured victim Sasha Flanders to St Thomas' Hospital after finding her in the Old Thameside Inn where up to 100 people were on lockdown. Dominic Adamson, representing the family of Mr Thomas, questioned the officer's decision to abandon the river search shortly after gunshots were heard. He said: 'You hear the gunfire at 22.16 and so it would appear that really very shortly after that your attempts were distracted to deal with people on the riverside.' The officer replied: 'Yes. So I arrived on the scene. I carried out a search of the river and I was satisfied if anyone was in the river floating on the surface in the vicinity of London Bridge we would have found it. 'When I made the decision, so far as I was concerned, if someone has gone in then tragically they are lost. I made the decision to depart from it.' Mr Adamson asked: 'You had already made the determination?' The witness replied: 'Xavier had probably already been lost if there was no-one in the river. That was a factor in my thought process.' He insisted it was 'just and right' to leave the lifeboats to continue the search without the assistance of his 31ft fast patrol boat. The officer said Ms Flanders had suffered a wound to the neck and lacerations that needed medical care. He said ambulances would not have been able to reach her but it only took five minutes at full speed to reach St Thomas' by boat. The officer told the court conditions were 'clear', visibility was 'very good' and the tide was almost at its highest point. Mr Bultitude added: 'I'm convinced if Xavier had been on the surface of the river, we would have recovered him.' He insisted the 'unfortunately named' hasty search was 'not shoddy in any way'. 'We covered every inch of that river in a desperate attempt to recover anyone in there,' he said. Mr Bultitude was also quizzed on why he did not make use of his infrared camera and relied instead on his crew scanning the water. He said it was 'impractical' to use the infrared camera in the search and drive the boat at the same time. Mr Adamson said: 'You can understand why there is some concern that a resource available to you was not used.' Asked if it was antiquated equipment, the officer said: 'It's probably current but whether it's the best bit of kit we have got, I don't know.' Ben Hayday, senior coastguard officer, told the court there were four vessels involved in the structured search in the night of June 3 2017 and he was 'comfortable' with releasing one. Advertisement The witness said she was in a lot of pain and felt like she was going into light. 'I could hear some voices, I was no longer there. I had my whole head with me but I was no longer using my body. I was going. I thought I would never get out of that light. I would stay there for ever.' Asked by counsel for the coroner Jonathan Hough QC if she wanted to add to her evidence, she said: 'I'm madly in love with Xavier.' BBC journalist Holly Jones went to help Ms Delcros after jumping out of the path of the van and told police to check the water for her boyfriend. Describing the moment a 'demented' driver headed towards her, Ms Jones said: 'Immediately I just froze. It was a feeling I described as like being punched into the chest. 'There was a lady in front of me walking towards me. She had headphones on so she was not aware of any of this. 'I remember being stood frozen in fear. Something in the back of my mind told me to get out of the way. I jumped to the right towards the railings. 'At that point the van went past me. I could feel the wind of the van directly behind.' Ms Jones said she remembered the French couple who looked 'very happy together' on the bridge. The three terrorists strapped fake explosive belts made from water bottles on to their torsos in a bid to strike fear into the hearts of officers attempting to stop them The terrorists tied 12-inch knives to their wrists with tape before they launched their attack 'I remember looking over and saw a female on the floor. My first thought was, 'where's the gentleman that was with her?' She scoured up and down the river but could not see where he was. When she went to Ms Delcros, the French woman said, 'where's my boyfriend?', and Ms Jones replied, 'I don't know', the Old Bailey heard. She added: 'Those who did this try to separate us but they did the opposite. We are not victims of terror, we are survivors.' The inquest also heard that a husband shouted to his wife to run, moments before they were mown down in the terrorist attack Tanya Lunt was visiting London from out of town with her husband Peter and they had been to a comedy show at pub near Guy's Hospital. They were walking back across the bridge, back to their hotel in Liverpool Street and Mrs Lund was looking at her phone and was about halfway across the bridge. Pictured: the battered Renault van used by terrorists during the attack on London Bridge in 2017, leaving it with its bumper hanging off She said: 'I was the river side and Peter was the road side in the middle of the pavement, I could hear people screaming and shouting and then shouting, run, run there's a van. 'I looked up and there were people obviously running. It was at the far end of the bridge, it was on the pavement and heading towards us. 'I think Pete shouted at me, run, we've got to run, and we turned back to run in the direction of the Shard. I had a feeling it was a terrorist attack.' She said she remembered turning and seeing the van over her right shoulder a split second before she was struck. 'I was pushed, hit and then everything went black, I couldn't see anything, just feel cold metal. I looked for Peter and I could see him lying in the road.' She screamed for help and tried to dial 999 but was too panicked. Passers-by and a doctor from Guy's arrived to help and her husband was taken hospital where he needed a number of operations. Keir Christopher Michaels had left a bar called Belushis and was crossing the bridge when he stopped to take pictures of his friends over-looking Tower Bridge. He said: 'My friend Jermain shouted no, no, no, as I was taking the photo. We heard a lot of bangs and screaming. I saw a white van hitting people on the pavement, out of the corner of my eye.' The vehicle was about 20m away and travelling 'very fast' in the middle of the pavement. He ran into the road but the van clipped his ankle and he fractured his wrist as he fell to the ground. Mark Roberts was among a group who had set up tripods to take photographs of Tower Bridge from London Bridge. He saw a 'commotion' with screams and shouts coming from the northern end of the bridge. He told the court the van was going about 30mph or 40mph when it mounted the pavement and hit a group of people. Xavier Thomas, 45, and Christine Archibald, 30, who died in the London Bridge terror attack walking on the bridge that evening He said: 'It looked to me it was deliberately steering and aiming at the people. That's when I realised this is not an accident, this is a deliberate intent. 'At that point it started driving along the pavement towards me. There was one group of people, which included the previous witnesses, 20 yards away. 'I was thinking I should find some cover and I looked around and there was not really anywhere to go so I was frozen to the spot.' Mr Roberts said he thought he was 'next in line', but suddenly the van steered away towards a large group of people running away. He told the court one woman was thrown into the air 'like a rag doll'. On Wednesday, Gareth Patterson QC, representing some of the victims, said Mr Thomas and the second victim, Christine Archibald, would not have died if barriers had been put up after the Westminster Bridge attack two months before. He has also questioned why more had not been done to stop Khuram Butt from hiring the van that hit them, despite being under investigation by MI5 and counter-terrorism police at the time. After striking 10 pedestrians, including Mr Thomas and 30-year-old Ms Archibald, on the bridge, driver Youssef Zaghba crashed into railings. Butt, 27, Rachid Redouane, 30, and Zaghba, 22, got out with 12in knives strapped to their hands with duct tape and wearing fake suicide belts. They ran amok around Borough Market, killing six more people and injuring 48. They were stopped by police marksmen who shot them dead less than 10 minutes after the rampage began. The victims were Ms Archibald, 30, Mr Thomas, 45, Alexandre Pigeard, 26, Sara Zelenak, 21, Kirsty Boden, 28, Sebastien Belanger, 36, James McMullan, 32, and Ignacio Echeverria, 39. It's going to be a grueling nine months before the jam-packed Democratic field begins to thin out, if a prediction from candidate and former Vice President Joe Biden proves to be accurate. Biden said Wednesday in Los Angeles that the results of the Iowa caucus, slated for early February, will force several 2020 candidates out of the race. 'This field is going to be winnowed out pretty quickly,' he said at a local taco shop, according to Politico. 'It's going to work its way through relatively quickly for all of us.' It's going to be a grueling nine months before the jam-packed Democratic field begins to thin out, if a prediction from candidate and former Vice President Joe Biden proves to be accurate Biden pointed to a rule that prevents Democratic delegates from being awarded to candidates who win less than 15 percent of the vote statewide as a reason that many of the candidates in competition for the nomination won't make it past Iowa. Iowa traditionally votes first, holding caucuses in communities across the state to determine how many delegates each candidate receives. Delegates they collect will decide who the Democratic nominee is. The process could be particularly important in a year with so many contenders. Another important marker will be Super Tuesday, when a long list of states, including California, will hold their contests. Candidates who do not perform well in the March primaries are unlikely to catch up with the race's front runners before the Democratic National Convention, which could be contested this cycle. A contested convention would be decided by the number of delegates candidates have amassed - and how many they are able to woo away from losing candidates in subsequent rounds. Biden said Wednesday in Los Angeles that the results of the Iowa caucus, slated for early February, will force several 2020 candidates out of the race. Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren are pictured above Trump suggested that foreign leaders are hoping Pete Buttigieg is successful, and Biden, too, so they can continue to 'rip off' the United States in trade deals Political parties are not having their conventions until next summer, and the general election that will determine the next president isn't until November of 2020. President Trump commented on Wednesday evening a reelection rally of his own on the length of the long electoral season. Candidates rushed to declare their interest in January of this year. The first announcement in 2016, when Ted Cruz got in the GOP race, did not happen until March. Trump said Democrats should just 'pick somebody' and get on with the election. He picked on leading Democratic candidates such as Biden and Bernie Sanders and noted that Beto O'Rourke has lost steam since announcing. Zeroing in on Biden, who waiting to enter the race until April, the president said, 'He's a sleepy person.' Trump used Biden's claim that he speaks to foreign leaders regularly, and they worry about the fate of the United States, against the politician. 'Of course they do, so they can continue to rip off the United States,' Trump said. 'I think If I heard that, I'd never vote for him.' He suggested that foreign leaders are hoping Pete Buttigieg is successful, too. 'He's got a great chance, doesn't he? He'll be great representing us against President Xi of China,' he said in a mocking tone. 'I want to be in that room, I want to watch that one.' Democratic presidential candidate Sen. Kamala Harris is relying on Super Tuesday to keep her in the race. She represents delegate rich California in the U.S. Senate If the field does start to winnow, Trump predicted Beto O'Rourke will be among the cuts. 'Boy has he fallen like a rock. What happened to Beto?' Trump mused. He moved on to Sanders, who narrowly lost to Hillary Clinton in the last presidential race. 'Crazy Bernie. You have choice between Sleepy Joe and Crazy Bernie. And I'll take any one. 'Let's just pick somebody, please, and let's start this thing. Just start it. Pick somebody!' he said. Former intelligence analyst Daniel Hale is accused of leaking Top Secret documents to journalist Jeremy Scahill (pictured), founding editor of The Intercept A former National Security Agency analyst has been charged with leaking a cache of classified documents about the Obama administration's military campaigns against al-Qaeda to a reporter. Daniel Everette Hale, 31, of Nashville, Tennessee, was arrested on Thursday morning and will make an initial appearance at the federal courthouse there, authorities said. An unsealed indictment in Alexandria, Virginia, charges him with obtaining national defense information, retention and transmission of national defense information, causing the communication of national defense information, disclosure of classified communications intelligence information, and theft of government property. According to the indictment, while serving in the US Air Force between 2009-2013, Hale was assigned to work at the National Security Agency and deployed to Afghanistan as an intelligence analyst. He later worked as a defense contractor assigned to the government's National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency, where he specialized in political geography and held a Top Secret/Sensitive Compartmented Information security clearance. The indictment says Hale began communications with a reporter in 2013 while at the Air Force and continued communications after going to NGA. Court papers do not identify by name the reporter who allegedly received the leaks, but details in the indictment make clear that Jeremy Scahill, a founding editor of The Intercept, is the reporter who received the leaks. Hale is accused of printing a total of 36 documents from his Top Secret computer, nine of which were related to his NGA work. Of those, he allegedly provided 17 documents - 11 of them labeled Top Secret or Secret - to Scahill or The Intercept. Those documents were later published either in whole or in part. In 2015, Scahill published an expose on The Intercept titled 'The Assassination Complex' that outlined the use of military drones in the Obama administration's kill/capture operations They include a secret memo outlining a military campaign against al-Qaeda overseas, a top secret intelligence report on an al-Qaeda operative, and a secret PowerPoint slide 'outlining the effects of the military campaign targeting Al-Qaeda overseas,' according to the indictment. The indictment states that many of the classified documents were disclosed in an article published in October 2015. On October 15, 2015, Scahill published an expose on The Intercept titled 'The Assassination Complex' that relies on 'a cache of secret slides that provides a window into the inner workings of the U.S. military's kill/capture operations at a key time in the evolution of the drone wars.' The story says the documents 'were provided by a source within the intelligence community who worked on the types of operations and programs described in the slides. 'The Intercept granted the source's request for anonymity because the materials are classified and because the U.S. government has engaged in aggressive prosecution of whistleblowers.' Scahill's book, Dirty Wars, was published in 2013, and the indictment indicates Hale and Scahill met while Scahill was promoting the book at a Washington, DC, bookstore. The book reported on the use of drones to attack and kill targets like al-Qaeda cleric Anwar al-Awlaki, among other things. The indictment states that Hale listed his work with drones on kill and capture operations on his resume and quotes Hale in a text message to a friend stating that Scahill 'wants me to tell my story about working with drones.' According to the indictment, Hale and Scahill used an encrypted messaging service called Jabber to communicate throughout 2013 and 2014. If convicted of all five federal charges against him, the 31-year-old Hale could face up to 50 years in prison. The Eastern District of Virginia, where Hale will be prosecuted, has been a frequent location for cases involving leaks and whistleblowers. Prosecutors in Alexandria have filed criminal charges against Wikileaks founder Julian Assange and against former National Security Agency contractor Edward Snowden, though both so far remain overseas despite US efforts to obtain their extradition. In 2015, a judge imposed a 3 year sentence on former CIA officer Jeffrey Sterling, who was convicted of exposing government secrets to a New York Times reporter. In 2013, another former CIA man, John Kiriakou, was sentenced to 2 years in prison after pleading guilty to leaking a covert officer's identity to a reporter. Kiriakou's indictment in 2012 prompted then-CIA Director David Petraeus to issue a statement reminded his agency's employees of the need for secrecy in their work. 'When we joined this organization, we swore to safeguard classified information; those oaths stay with us for life,' he said at the time. In 2015, Petraeus pleaded guilty in federal court in North Carolina to a charge of unauthorized removal and retention of classified information. He was sentenced to probation. Facebook co-founder Chris Hughes has called for federal regulators to break up the company, saying that CEO Mark Zuckerberg is too powerful and that the company is an effective monopoly. 'It is time to break up Facebook,' Hughes, who was Zuckerberg's Harvard roommate, wrote in a searing op-ed for the New York Times on Thursday. 'Mark's power is unprecedented and un-American.' Hughes, 35, helped build Facebook from the beginning, and was a key creator in products like the social network's New Feed. He left the company in 2007 to join Barack Obama's first presidential campaign, and says he liquidated his Facebook stock in 2012. Now, Hughes says he has watched with horror as the company he helped create has grown into a behemoth through the acquisitions of Instagram and WhatsApp, threatening to crush free speech and stifle competitive innovation. Facebook co-founder Chris Hughes has called for federal regulators to break up the company, saying that CEO Mark Zuckerberg is too powerful and Facebook is a monopoly Hughes (left) is seen with Zuckerberg in Palo Alto in the early days of Facebook. The pair were college roommates and collaborated on the creation of Facebook Zuckerberg testifies before Congress last year. Hughes says that federal regulators need to intervene immediately and force Facebook to break up into separate companies According to Hughes, the most dire threat at Facebook is Zuckerberg's 'unilateral control over speech.' 'There is no precedent for his ability to monitor, organize and even censor the conversations of two billion people,' he continued. 'Mark's influence is staggering, far beyond that of anyone else in the private sector or in government,' Hughes wrote. Hughes said that Zuckerberg has virtually unlimited control over algorithms that determine what each of billions of Facebook users sees in their News Feed, what privacy settings they can use, and even which messages they receive on the platform. 'He sets the rules for how to distinguish violent and incendiary speech from the merely offensive, and he can choose to shut down a competitor by acquiring, blocking or copying it,' Hughes wrote. Nick Clegg, Facebook's vice president of global affairs and communications, responded to Hughes' op-ed in a statement to DailyMail.com. 'Facebook accepts that with success comes accountability. But you don't enforce accountability by calling for the breakup of a successful American company,' Clegg said. 'Accountability of tech companies can only be achieved through the painstaking introduction of new rules for the internet. That is exactly what Mark Zuckerberg has called for. Indeed, he is meeting Government leaders this week to further that work,' he continued. Zuckerberg speaks at the F8 conference last month. Hughes writes that the most dire threat at Facebook is Zuckerberg's 'unilateral control over speech' In addition to publishing the op-ed, Hughes sat for a television interview that will air on NBC Nightly News on Thursday. 'The reason I am speaking out is because I think Facebook has become too big, too powerful,' he explained in a preview clip of the interview. Hughes added of Zuckerberg: 'He is extremely powerful because he has no boss, because there has been no regulatory agency from the federal government.' In his op-ed, Hughes calls on the federal government to wield the monopoly-busting powers granted by the Sherman Antitrust Act and subsequent laws, which led to the break up of Standard Oil in 1911 and AT&T in 1982. Regulators have been hesitant to scrutinize Facebook's overwhelming market share, however, because existing antitrust regulations are aimed at keeping prices low for consumers. Since Facebook is free for users, and instead makes money by mining personal data to sell targeted ads, the traditional impetus for federal intervention has been lacking. Harvard roommates Zuckerberg (left) and Hughes are seen in 2004 at Harvard's Eliot House. Facebook was created in February 2004, three months prior to this photograph WHAT HAS MARK ZUCKERBERG SAID ABOUT HOW THE INTERNET COULD BE REGULATED? Facebook boss Mark Zuckerberg set out in March 2019 how he believes the social network and the internet should be regulated. The firm's founder and chief executive said there is a need for governments and regulators to have 'a more active role'. Mr Zuckerberg said he believes new regulation is needed in four areas harmful content, election integrity, privacy and data portability. In an op-ed published online in the Washington Post and on his own Facebook page, Mr Zuckerberg said: 'Every day we make decisions about what speech is harmful, what constitutes political advertising, and how to prevent sophisticated cyberattacks. 'These are important for keeping our community safe. But if we were starting from scratch, we wouldn't ask companies to make these judgements alone. 'I believe we need a more active role for governments and regulators. 'By updating the rules for the internet, we can preserve what's best about it the freedom for people to express themselves and for entrepreneurs to build new things while also protecting society from broader harms.' 'From what I've learned, I believe we need new regulation in four areas: harmful content, election integrity, privacy and data portability.' Mr Zuckerberg said legislation is important for 'protecting elections' and said it should be 'updated', adding that Facebook has already made 'significant changes around political ads'. Advertisement Hughes argues that Facebook's dominance is a real threat to consumers, however, due to the company's ability to stifle competition and innovation. He says that Facebook should have never been allowed to purchase competing platforms Instagram and WhatsApp, which combined give the company command over 80 per cent of global social media revenue, according to Hughes' estimate. Hughes believes that nothing short of forcing Facebook to split up and sell off Instagram and WhatsApp would be effective at reining the company in. 'Facebook isn't afraid of a few more rules,' he wrote. 'It's afraid of an antitrust case and of the kind of accountability that real government oversight would bring.' Others join call to break up Facebook Hughes joins U.S. lawmakers who have also urged anti-trust action to break up big tech companies as well as federal privacy regulation. Facebook has been under scrutiny from regulators around the world over its data sharing practices and misinformation spread on its networks. Senator Elizabeth Warren, a Democratic presidential candidate, in March vowed to break up Facebook, Amazon.com Inc and Alphabet Inc's Google if elected president, to promote competition in the tech sector. 'Todays big tech companies have too much power-over our economy, our society, & our democracy. They've bulldozed competition, used our private info for profit, hurt small businesses & stifled innovation. It's time to #BreakUpBigTech,' Warren said on Twitter on Thursday. President Donald Trump has also called for the creation of 'more, and fairer' social media companies in response to discrimination he alleges he has faced as a Republican from Twitter. Representative Ro Khanna, a California Democrat, said in a statement that he agreed that in retrospect that U.S. regulators 'should not have approved Facebook's acquisition of Instagram & WhatsApp in 2012.' He said that 'the way forward is to heavily scrutinize future mergers and to ensure no company has anti-competitive platform privileges.' Latest in a line of scandals In one of a number of security and privacy scandals to hit the company, Facebook is accused of inappropriately sharing information belonging to 87 million users with the now-defunct British political consulting firm Cambridge Analytica. The company has been in advanced talks with the U.S. Federal Trade Commission to settle a year-old investigation and said last month it expected to spend between $3 billion and $5 billion on a penalty. On Monday, Republican and Democratic U.S. senators criticized reported plans for the settlement, calling on the FTC to impose harsher penalties and more restrictions on Facebook's business practices. Zuckerberg touts new privacy initiatives last month following a string of embarassments Hughes said he last met with Zuckerberg in the summer of 2017, several months before the Cambridge Analytica scandal broke. 'Mark is a good, kind person. But I'm angry that his focus on growth led him to sacrifice security and civility for clicks,' Hughes said. 'And I'm worried that Mark has surrounded himself with a team that reinforces his beliefs instead of challenging them.' Hughes co-founded Facebook in 2004 at Harvard with the company's Zuckerberg and Dustin Moskovitz. He quit Facebook in 2007 and later said in a LinkedIn post that he made half a billion dollars for his three years of work. 'It's been 15 years since I co-founded Facebook at Harvard, and I haven't worked at the company in a decade. But I feel a sense of anger and responsibility,' said Hughes. This is the moment a Russian warplane flies perilously close to an American spy drone in footage thought to have been filmed over Syria. The clip purportedly shows one of Moscow's Sukhoi Su-30 fighters making a 'dangerous pass' close to an American MQ-9 Reaper drone. Pro-government newspaper Rossiyskaya Gazeta mocked the $17million spy and attack drone with the headline: 'Peek-a-boo, my little one'. The footage was posted online by someone who claims to be a Russian military pilot. In it, the Russian fighter approaches its American counterpart from behind and from a lower altitude. The drone's cameras mean that the Russian flypast would have been spotted by remote controllers. Western watchers said the Kremlin's plane had carried out a 'dangerous pass'. The Kremlin has refused to say when or where the near-miss took place but the 'pilot' who shared the video has claimed it shows the two aircraft in Syria. The Reaper drone, which has a 66-foot wingspan and a cruising speed of around 230mph, came into operation with the U.S. Air Force in 2007. 'Dangerous pass': A Russian warplane flies perilously close to an American spy drone in footage thought to have been filmed over Syria Its weapons include AGM-114 Hellfire missiles and GBU-38 Joint Direct Attack Munitions. According to the Pentagon it is 'designed to execute time-sensitive targets with persistence and precision, and destroy or disable those targets'. The unmanned aircraft can be disassembled and transported, and can carry out mission including border and coastal surveillance and weapons tracking. The U.S. Air Force says it can 'acquire and pass real-time imagery data to ground users around the clock'. Near miss: The American drone is seen through the window of what is claimed to be a Russian military plane, which approaches its U.S. counterpart from behind Moscow is on the side of Syria's President Assad in the country's civil war while Donald Trump has vowed to pull out most American troops. Russia and the U.S. have both fought against ISIS and have tried to keep their air operations out of each other's way. However, U.S. envoy James Jeffrey said last year that Russian and American forces had clashed several times. 'There have been various engagements, some involving exchange of fire, some not,' he said in November 2018. 'We are continuing our mission there and we are continuing to exercise our right of self-defense.' It's a bhang! Meghan Markle was not the only member of her family celebrating a new arrival this week, as the Duchess of Sussex's cousin finished work on his new hemp farm in Oregon. Tyler Dooley, 26, posted video of the new 200-acre plot of land - complete with a man-made lake - where the marijuana-growing entrepreneur will be cultivating his new strain of cannabis, Markle Sparkle. He has yet to make any mention however of his new second-cousin Archie, though he was in London for the first few months of Meghan's pregnancy while filming an MTV reality show, The Royal World. Tyler landed that show as a direct result of his aunt's fame, but has been hitting back at those on social media who suggest the success of his weed empire is a result of his new royal ties. Scroll down for video Hey Meg: Tyler Dooley (above outside Buckingham Palace last year) recently finished work on a 200-acre hemp farm in Oregon where he will cultivate his new strain of cannabis, Markle Sparkle Reef the rewards: He showed off the plot (above) in a video just a few days before his aunt Meghan welcomed her first son with Prince Harry, a baby boy named Archie Family: He is the son of Meghan's half-brother Thomas Markle Jr, though he does not have a close relationship with the man and took his mother's last name (Meghan and Thomas Sr with Samantha and Tyler, second right, and TJ, second left, Dooley) The Royal World filmed last year and is now being rolled out internationally by MTV. It featured 10 twenty-somethings who claimed to be of royal or noble origin or have ties to the like. Tyler is the son of Meghan's half-brother Thomas Markle Jr, who was not a big influence in his children's lives per both his sons and their mother, Tracey. That is why Tyler and his brother have both taken their mother's name, though the last name of both parents are listed on their birth certificates. The Dooleys have also been shut off by Meghan, but do not seem to see this as any big slight. Tyler did not spend much time with Meghan beyond his early childhood, when she would sometimes babysit him and his brother. The family has still managed to cash in on their ties to the American princess though, with the family all travelling to London for the royal wedding to appear as commentators for the big day last year. In a bizarre twist however they cancelled their big appearance and quickly returned home, without saying a word about the sudden change in plans. Tyler has however been very adamant that his multimillion-dollar marijuana business is not a result of his Markle ties. Reality: Tyler was in London for the early months of Meghan's pregnancy as he filmed the MTV reality show The Royal World (left) alongside a cast (right) of fellow noble outliers Family feud: Tyler is often critical of his father (above), grandfather and aunt, saying in March: 'I hope God can help them' Nope: He also objects to those who claim his weed empire was built on the back of Meghan's royal marriage (above) In one exchange on Twitter, Tyler silenced one person who urged him to thanks Meghan for his profits by stating: 'Ill thank her for helping me farm land, and process CBD with 30 employees. Youre trippin. Ive been in this industry for almost 10 years.' He wrote in another Twitter post earlier this year that it was the Farm Bill passed by the Trump administration and not his aunt that paved the way for his current windfall. And he has also made it clear on Twitter that he in now way supports the behavior of his father, grandfather and aunt Samantha. The trio, whose antagonistic behavior towards Meghan has died down in recent weeks, are all 'crazy' according to Tyler. 'I hope God can help them,' he wrote back in March. 'You cant repeat the same actions and expect different results. I hope all the Markles can wise up and learn from their mistakes.' As for his father, he said that Thomas Jr is not in his life and scoffed at the notion that he should help him earlier this year when he was evicted from his home for failure to pay rent. 'He has to be able to help himself first before anyone can help him,' he said to one of his detractors. 'Hes a grown man, not my charity case. I have my own family that depends on me. Hope that answers your question.' Nine members of a 12-man gang who tried to rob Amanda Holden's neighbour in London have racked up 383 previous convictions between them. Footage of the attack in Richmond, south west London, was tweeted by the Britain's Got Talent judge who urged the public to call the police 'if u know these scumbags' after it happened last June. Speaking exclusively to MailOnline, Amanda Holden praised the convictions today. She said: 'Im delighted these criminals have been brought to justice. Its nice to see how social media can work in a positive way when we all work together.' Two members of the gang were seen trying to snatch the woman's three-year-old daughter if she didn't hand over her jewellery. The thugs were chased away by builders who threatened them with scaffolding poles and the gang was eventually tracked down and arrested. It later emerged they were also behind a string of high profile raids across London, including stealing 170,000 of camera equipment used to film the Oxford and Cambridge boat race. Today at their sentencing hearing at Kingston Crown Court, it was revealed nine of the 12 men have previous convictions for burglaries, handling stolen goods, car theft, aggravated vehicle taking, assault and robbery - 383 in total. Three of the men had no previous criminal record. Footage of the attack in Richmond, south west London, was tweeted by the Britain's Got Talent judge who urged the public to call the police 'if u know these scumbags' after it happened last June The defendants, aged between 18 and 36, who were all linked to ringleader Terry Marsh, 32, today appeared in relation to 20 offences, including conspiracy to rob, conspiracy to burgle, conspiracy to steal, criminal damage and handling stolen goods. Pictured: Britain's Got Talent judge Amanda Holden, whose neighbour was targeted in the robbery in Richmond last June Prosecutor Paul Fairley described the gang's history of offending on the second day of the sentencing, which was attended by dozens of family members and friends. Worst was Steven Weller, 36, who had 30 separate court sentencings for 79 offences. Mr Fairley said: 'These are mainly driving matters, there are some thefts of and from motor vehicles.' John McFadyen, 24, who threatened to hurt the mother's toddler if she did not hand over jewellery, had four convictions for 10 offences including going equipped for theft, burgling a home and handling stolen goods. Ringleader Terry Marsh, 32, faces years behind bars after amassing 26 appearances for 78 offences including burglaries from 2003 to 2014. Mr Fairley said these included: 'Significantly a robbery in 2003 and aggravated vehicle taking in 2003 and 2005. 'There was a burglary of a dwelling in 2008 for which he received 54 months' imprisonment; again assault with intent to rob in 2011 for which he received four years' imprisonment; and finally a burglary of a dwelling in 2014 for which he received three years.' Taking the criminals off the streets has helped cut moped crime in the capital by 52 per cent in a year, the Metropolitan Police claim. The gang's illegal activity first came to light on New Year's Eve 2017 after a ram raid on outdoor clothing company Altimus Ltd in Kensington using a stolen Range Rover and several mopeds. Three were arrested last May after a high-speed police chase that lasted more than 90 minutes and spanned 10 London boroughs. Members of the gang are pictured climbing on Putney Bridge in order to steal expensive camera equipment for the Oxford Cambridge Boat Race Photos show the gang trying to remove the camera in the middle of rush hour while stunned motorists watch on The trio, who were piled on the same moped and drove the wrong way up the A40, tried to film their escape attempt. Omar Tafat, 22, of Fulham, west London, admitted theft, going equipped to steal, criminal damage to a police car and breach of a criminal behaviour order, and was found guilty of two further counts of robbery and possession of an offensive weapon at trial. Josh Myers, 19, of Shepherds Bush, west London, pleaded guilty to attempted theft, going equipped to steal, criminal damage to a police car, dangerous driving, driving whilst disqualified, possession of an offensive weapon and conspiracy to steal. He was also found guilty of two further counts of robbery and possession of an offensive weapon at trial. Kian Taylor, 20, of no fixed address, admitted attempted theft, going equipped to steal, criminal damage to a police car, dangerous driving, driving whilst disqualified and possession of an offensive weapon, and was found guilty of robbery after trial. Steven Weller, 36, of Ealing, west London, admitted conspiracy to rob and conspiracy to burgle. Marsh, of Fulham, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to rob, conspiracy to steal and conspiracy to burgle. He apologised to the woman and her daughter today. His defence barrister Zarif Khan said: 'He would specifically like to put forward an apology to the lady concerned in the Sandpits incident. 'When I spoke to him yesterday, he said he was extremely ashamed and indeed he found it difficult to watch the video.' Ryan Moran, 26, of Fulham, admitted conspiracy to steal, conspiracy to burgle and handling stolen goods. John McFadyen, of Feltham, west London, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to rob, while his brother Isaac, 18, admitted conspiracy to rob. Mitchall Leaver, 25, of Battersea, south west London, admitted conspiracy to burgle. His twin brother Scott, of Lambeth, was found guilty of the same charge after trial. Aaron Pask, 27, of White City, west London, was convicted of conspiracy to burgle and conspiracy to steal, while Ram Monk 23, of no fixed address was found guilty of conspiracy to burgle. The sentencing hearing continues and is expected to conclude on Monday. Two former Kentucky correctional officers have been charged with beating a handcuffed prisoner after shocking video showed them punching a 19-year-old inmate in the face. David M. Schwartz, 48, and Devan Edwards, were indicted Wednesday over the attack on Terry Whitehead at the Louisville Metro Department of Corrections in April 2018. Their supervisor Donna Gentry, 55, was indicted with obstruction of justice for allegedly trying to cover up the assault. Recently released bodycam footage shows Edwards striking Whitehead twice in the head while the inmate was seated. Shocking bodycam footage shows David M. Schwartz, a former correctional officers at the Louisville Metro Department of Correction, punching 19-year-old Terry Whitehead in April 2018 David M. Schwartz, 48, (left) and Devan Edwards (right) were indicted Wednesday over the attack on Terry Whitehead at the Louisville Metro Department of Correction The officers can be heard saying loudly that Whitehead was spitting and 'being combative' when he put his legs up to keep them at bay. 'This ain't right, right here,' Whitehead repeatedly states in the footage after he is socked in the eye. Court documents state Edwards punched Whitehead twice in the face while he was seated, handcuffed and not resisting. He also failed to stop Schwartz from assaulting the man. Donna K. Gentry, 55, was charged with violating the civil rights of an inmate, writing false reports, and obstructing justice for her role in the assault that took place in April 2018 Scwartz is charged with depriving Whitehead of his rights to be free from excessive force and with filing two false police reports. One of the reported alleged that Whitehead assaulted one of the officers. Gentry - who was the supervising officer - is charged with obstructing justice by filing a false use of force report and by instructing her subordinate officer to file a false use of force report. She is said to have claimed that Whitehead spat and struck Schwartz when he entered the cell and failed to mention that the officers assaulted the inmate, the Courier Journal reports. The deprivation-of-rights offense could bring 10 years for the officers while the false report and obstruction offenses could see 20 years in prison. Schwartz and Gentry were both indicted by a grand jury in U.S. District Court in Louisville on Wednesday. 'This case was investigated jointly by the FBI's Louisville Resident Agency Office and by the Louisville Metro Police Department's Public Integrity Unit,' the press release reads. 'The case will be prosecuted by Trial Attorney Christopher J. Perras of the Department of Justice's Civil Rights Division, and Assistant United States Attorney Amanda Gregory of the Western District of Kentucky.' 'This ain't right, right here,' Whitehead repeatedly states in the footage after he is socked in the eye The officers can be heard screaming about Whitehead spitting and claim that he is being combative when he puts his legs up to keep them at bay Whitehead is suing all three officers over the assault and is claiming that he was pepper sprayed and badly pending. All three defendants have denied wrongdoing and the lawsuit is pending Both Schwartz and Edwards were fired by Metro Corrections Director Mark Bolton, who saw the video a week after the incident took place. 'What I saw on that video is disturbing and is not reflective of what we expect from our staff,' Bolton reportedly said at the time. Bolton said of Scwartz, who was a former Marine, that he didn't have the temperament for the job and often flew into 'fits of rage.' He said Edwards failed to report the incident and conducted 'unprofessional actions' on social media. Both were hired in September 2017. Gentry retired in September 2018 after she was demoted from sergeant to officer as a result of unrelated policy violation. Whitehead is suing all three officers over the assault and is claiming that he was pepper sprayed and badly pending. All three defendants have denied wrongdoing and the lawsuit is pending. Donald Trump denied reports Thursday that he was frustrated with the advice he received from National Security Advisor John Bolton about U.S.-backing of opposition forces in Venezuela. But the famously combative preisdent appeared to be holding back smoldering frustration with the hawkish and famously moustachioed provocateur. 'John's very good, and John has strong views on things, but that's OK,' Trump told reporters Thursday when asked if he was satisfied with the advice Bolton gives him. 'I actually temper John, which is pretty amazing, isn't it? I'm the one that tempers him,' Trump marveled. 'I like John, I get very good advice from John.' The telling moment suggested that Bolton is more aggressive than even the take-no-prisoners president during strategic discussions at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue. Trump framed Bolton's input as just one of many. In most administrations, the national security adviser's word has been seen as the endpoint of discussions among a diverse group of voices. 'I have different sides, I mean I have John Bolton and I have other people that are a little more dovish than him,' Trump said. 'Ultimately I make the decision.' President Donald Trump denied reports that say he has expressed frustration with national security adviser John Bolton's advice on backing opposition efforts by leader Juan Guaido Venezuela The Washington Post reported Thursday that White House aides and administration officials said Trump felt Bolton misled him into believing Guaido's efforts could oust the socialist regime leader Nicolas Maduro last week Bolton, and other administration officials including Trump expressed their support for the opposition attempting to overthrow the socialist president Violent clashes ensued last week after Guaido posted a video Tuesday that called for opposition efforts to engage in a military uprising to oust the socialist leader once and for all Administration officials and White House advisers told The Washington Post in an article Thursday morning that the president was frustrated with Bolton, and felt the aide had misled him into believing opposition leader Juan Guaido would be able to oust Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro last week. U.S.-backed opposition efforts to unseat the socialist regime leader failed after Guaido called for a military uprising against Maduro last Tuesday. U.S. officials, including the president, put support behind Juan Guaido's opposition efforts. 'The United States stands with the People of Venezuela and their Freedom!' Trump tweeted April 30, the same day Guaido said the opposition effort dubbed Operation Liberty was entering its 'final phase.' Bolton also expressed his support for Guaido the same day. 'The end of Maduro's usurpation of power is possible. Venezuela's armed forces should stand loyal to their people and the constitution. Democracy will be restored in Venezuela,' Bolton tweeted last Tuesday afternoon. In a three-minute video posted last Tuesday from Caracas, the capital city of Venezuela, the opposition leader called for a violent uprising of citizens and militants against Maduro. The president has recently said his aides should not have led him to believe Maduro could be ousted last week, and said the socialist leader is a 'tough cookie.' The street protests, which started Tuesday and last through last week, turned deadly, and by last Thursday there were more than 200 injured and four dead from the clashes. On Friday, Guaido organized a peaceful march aimed at encouraging more defectors from Maduro's military, but the opposition leader admitted he had 'overestimated military support,' and said there was not a sufficient outcome. Guaido has the support of more than 50 countries, including the United States, which also recognize him as interim president. His supporters were forced to retreat as Maduro unleashed tear gas and gunfire on the opposition. Trump is now saying Maduro is 'one tough cookie' after he refused an offer to leave the country and Guaido's forces retreated following military tear gas and gunfire attacks Trump claims that Bolton wants to get him 'into a war' by pushing for the U.S. to get involved in Venezuela and back Guaido's efforts Guaido has the support of more than 50 countries, including the United States, which also recognize him as interim president Bolton claimed two key figures in Maduro's regime who said they were going to defect ended up abandoning the plan, as the president rejected an offer to leave the country. Bolton made the defection plan public to apply pressure to Maduro. U.S. officials claim the plan worked, and say Maduro is sleeping in a bunker, paranoid that close aides will turn on him. The socialist leader publicly mocked Trump in response to the regime's success last week and said he wasn't going anywhere. Maduro called the U.S.-backing of the opposition an attempted 'foolish' coup. Maduro's government has arrested Guaido's top aide, stripped him of his parliamentary immunity and opened multiple probes. Guaido is also barred from leaving the country, which he openly violated earlier this year. In recent days, Trump has said that Bolton wants to get him 'into a war' in pushing for U.S. involvement in Venezuela, according to a senior administration officials. Aides say Bolton's interventionist stance is at odds with the president's view that the U.S. should stay out of hazardous foreign situations. Despite Trump's frustrations and complaints that Bolton underestimated Maduro, the president does not plan to fire Bolton, according to two senior administration officials. Trump has even told his national security adviser to keep focusing on Venezuela. One official says Trump and his administration should be prepared for a diplomatic 'long haul' with Venezuela. Chris McNair, the father of one of four young girls killed in the 1963 bombing of an Alabama church, died on Wednesday. He was 93. His family confirmed his death in a statement. 'We are grateful for the life and legacy of our father,' said J. Christopher McNair. 'He was a man who loved his family and this community. We ask for prayers and privacy as we prepare to lay him to rest,' his family said in a statement. McNair's daughter Denise, 11, was one of four girls killed when a powerful bomb went off outside Birmingham's 16th Street Baptist Church on September 15, 1963, amid white opposition to the desegregation of public schools. The bomb, which was placed by Ku Klux Klan members, ripped through the church and also killed Addie Mae Collins, 14, Carole Robertson, 14, and 14-year-old Cynthia Wesley. Chris McNair (center, with his wife, Maxine McNair), the father of 11-year-old Denise McNair, who was one of four young girls killed in the 1963 Birmingham church bombing, died on Wednesday. He was 93 years old His daughter Denise (left), 11, was one of four girls killed when the bomb went off outside the church on September 15, 1963. It also killed Addie Collins (second from right), 14, Carole Robertson (second from left), 14, and Cynthia Wesley (right), 14 The bomb was placed by Ku Klux Klan members. It ripped through the Birmingham's Sixteenth Street Baptist Church (pictured) amid white opposition to the desegregation of public schools Thomas Edwin Blanton Jr was the second of three people convicted in the bombing. Blanton is the only church bomber still living behind bars. Robert Chambliss was convicted in 1977, and Bobby Frank Cherry, convicted in 2002, They both died in prison. Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin said in a statement: 'Mr. McNair and his family are forever tied to our country's civil-rights legacy.' 'When he tragically lost his daughter Denise in the Sixteenth Street Baptist Church bombing in 1963, his courage and fortitude fueled our march for peace,' Woodfin said. 'May we take comfort in knowing that Chris has reunited with his beloved Denise,' Woodfin added. McNair became one of the first African-American members of the Alabama Legislature since Reconstruction when he was elected as a state representative in 1973. He later became a longtime member of the Jefferson County Commission. McNair was convicted in 2006 of bribery and conspiracy in connection with Jefferson County sewer construction and sentenced to five years in prison. He had been a part of the scandal that resulted in a then-record municipal bankruptcy over more than $4billion in debts. McNair entered prison in 2011 but was released in 2013 because of his health problems and age. Thomas Edwin Blanton Jr (left) was the second of three people convicted in the bombing. Blanton is the only bomber still living behind bars. Robert Chambliss (right) was convicted in 1977, and Bobby Frank Cherry (center), convicted in 2002, They both died in prison The Birmingham church bombing occurred just before Sunday morning at the 16th Street Baptist Church that was holding some 200 members The church was a predominantly black congregation that also served as a meeting place for civil rights leaders Most of the churchgoers that day were able to evacuate the building as it filled with smoke, but the bodies of the four young girls were found beneath the rubble in a basement restroom. Sarah Collins (pictured), 10, who was in the restroom, lost her right eye Before McNair served time, he worked as a successful photographer for nearly 50 years documenting the civil rights movement and everyday life in Birmingham. He was a native of Arkansas who came to Alabama to attend Tuskegee Institute. The Birmingham church bombing occurred just before Sunday morning at the 16th Street Baptist Church that was holding some 200 members. The church was a predominantly black congregation that also served as a meeting place for civil rights leaders. KKK members had routinely called in bomb threats intended to disrupt the meetings as well as services at the church. Most of the churchgoers that day were able to evacuate the building as it filled with smoke, but the bodies of the four young girls were found beneath the rubble in a basement restroom. Sarah Collins, 10, who was also in the restroom at the time of the explosion, lost her right eye, and more than 20 other people were injured in the blast. Fake German heiress Anna Sorokin has been sentenced to four to 12 years in prison for swindling tens of thousands of dollars from banks and hotels that she used to bankroll her lavish New York lifestyle. The 28-year-old con artist was sentenced in a Manhattan court on Thursday following her conviction last month on multiple counts of grand larceny and theft of services. Sorokin, who played with her own tabloid image during the trial with different fashion choices, pressed her hand to her face, squeezed her eyes shut and sobbed after her sentenced was handed down. Judge Diane Kiesel said Sorokin had been 'blinded by the glitter and glamour of New York City' as she turned to fraud to finance a life she could never afford. 'I am stunned by the depth of the defendant's deception,' Kiesel said. 'Ms Sorokin didn't have big money. All she had was a big scam.' Moments before she was sentenced, Sorokin briefly addressed the court, saying, 'I apologize for the mistakes I made.' In addition to the prison sentence, Sorokin was ordered to pay nearly $200,000 in restitution and $24,000 in fines. Her defense attorney Todd Spodek wouldn't comment on how Sorokin was paying his legal fees. He also declined to answer questions on whether Sorokin is receiving any money from the Netflix or HBO deals currently in the works. Scroll down for video Anna Sorokin broke down in tears as she was sentenced to four to 12 years in prison on Thursday for swindling tens of thousands of dollars from banks and hotels that she used to bankroll her lavish New York lifestyle The 28-year-old con artist sobbed as the judge sentenced her to four to 12 years in prison on Thursday In addition to the prison sentence, Sorokin was ordered to pay nearly $199,000 in restitution and $24,000 in fines The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement has said it will seek to deport Sorokin to Germany following her release from state custody because she overstayed her 2017 visa. Sorokin has been in custody at Rikers Island since her October 2017 arrest and was facing 15 years in prison. Her grifting ruse between 2016 and 2017 included forging her identity as a wealthy German heiress known as Anna Delvey and falsifying bank records to further her scam. In all, prosecutors accused her of stealing some $275,000, including a $35,400 bill for a private plane, as well as unpaid bills for her month-long stays in five-star New York hotel rooms and meals at upscale restaurants. Sorokin defrauded financial institutions and Manhattan's social elite into believing she had an overseas fortune of about $67 million that could cover her jet-setting lifestyle, high-end clothing and lavish hotel stays. As part of the scam, prosecutors say she peddled bogus bank statements in her quest for a $22 million loan to fund a private arts club. She ended up being denied that loan but persuaded one bank to lend her $100,000 that she failed to repay. She was blinded by the glitter and glamour of New York City. Judge Diane Kiesel Sorokin was convicted of four counts of theft of services, three counts of grand larceny and one count of attempted grand larceny following a month-long trial that drew attention for her courtroom fashion. Jurors acquitted her of two counts, including an allegation that she promised a friend an all-expenses paid trip to Morocco and then stuck her with the $62,000 bill. She was also found not guilty of one of the most serious charges in the indictment: Attempting to steal more than $1 million from City National Bank. Her defense attorney, Todd Spodek, argued that Sorokin had been 'buying time' and always planned to settle her six-figure debts. He told jurors that Sorokin lacked criminal intent and was merely an ambitious businesswoman who got in over her head after being taken in by New York's extravagance. He compared her at one point to Frank Sinatra, saying 'they both created their own opportunities' in New York. 'There's a little bit of Anna in all of us,' Spodek said during the trial. 'Anna had to fake it until she could make it.' Prosecutors, however, maintained that Sorokin was simply a fraudster just trying to get a taste of the high life. Judge Diane Kiesel said Sorokin had been 'blinded by the glitter and glamour of New York City' as she turned to fraud to finance a life she could never afford The 28-year-old con artist was sentenced in a Manhattan court on Thursday following her conviction last month on multiple counts of grand larceny and theft of services Sorokin was convicted of four counts of theft of services, three counts of grand larceny and one count of attempted grand larceny following a month-long trial that drew attention for her courtroom fashion Sorokin, who moved to Germany with her family in 2007 from her native Russia, had falsely claimed that her father was a diplomat or an oil baron. In reality, her father worked as a truck driver and later as an executive at a transport company until it became insolvent in 2013. He then opened a business installing underfloor heating. Sorokin's father disowned her following the verdict last month and said that she had borrowed money from them too. 'I really do hope my daughter finds what she is looking for, whatever it is,' her father told DailyMail.com. 'I do not have any influence on her life and what she does. It is down to her what she has done and it is something I am not comfortable to talk about.' In an interview with Russian newspaper Komsomolskaya Prava, her father said: 'Our daughter has never sent us any money. On the contrary, she was borrowing. Of course we are very concerned about her. 'She has a selfish personality, we can't do anything about it. We raised her well.' Former high school classmates said Sorokin was an honors student and excelled in foreign languages, including English, German and French. She had always dreamed of working in the world of fashion and magazines, her childhood friends recalled. While most accounts of her early life said she left Germany to study at London's prestigious Central St Martins College of Art, the school confirmed to DailyMail.com that she never attended despite being accepted. Instead, Sorokin returned to Berlin and interned in the fashion department of a public relations firm. She then relocated to Paris where she secured a coveted internship at the French fashion magazine Purple. It's believed to be around this time that she changed her name from Sorokin to Delvey. Acquaintances say Sorokin had spent several years playing the part of an art-obsessed German heiress across the world before she eventually came to New York with a designer-clad wardrobe and the social connections she needed to make it. Sorokin defrauded financial institutions and Manhattan's social elite into believing she had an overseas fortune of about $67 million that could cover her jet-setting lifestyle, high-end clothing and lavish hotel stays Sorokin defrauded financial institutions and Manhattan's social elite into believing she had an overseas fortune of about $67 million that could cover her jet-setting lifestyle, high-end clothing and lavish hotel stays She quickly went about proving herself to be an impossibly rich heiress who had plans to shake up New York's art world with a multi-million private arts club that she thought about calling the Anna Delvey Foundation. It would be an arts foundation that would include exhibitions, installations, pop-up shops, bars and restaurants. She compared the project to the SoHo house members' club empire and said she planned to open branches in London, Los Angeles, Dubai and Hong Kong. Sorokin was already brushing shoulders with rich people in the years before she came to New York and started dazzling Manhattan's social elite Sorokin managed to avoid suspicion among her wealthy friends in New York for months. She rented a $400-a-night room for several months at Manhattan's expensive 11 Howard hotel. Concierges at the hotel - including Neff Davis who she would later become friends with - were gobsmacked when Sorokin would pass out $100 tips to them and Uber drivers. Sorokin would spend big in designer stores and would regularly host large dinners for celebrities, artists and CEOs at lavish restaurants. She kept up the heiress ruse when she went looking for a $22 million loan to fund her new club in November 2016. She said the loan would be secured by a letter of credit from UBS in Switzerland and showed what prosecutors say were bogus bank statements that purported to substantiate the $67 million in assets she claimed to have. Spencer Garfield, a banker at the private equity fund Fortress, testified during her trial that Sorokin's loan was rejected because she couldn't produce proof of her fortune. Banker Ryan Salem testified that his City National Bank also denied a request to finance the private arts club because the financial statements just didn't add up. Despite a host of red flags, City National still agreed to lend Sorokin $100,000 in an overdraft that she promised to repay within days. Sorokin gave varying accounts of where her wealth actually came from, according to her acquaintances. She told some that her father was a Russian oil billionaire. Others were under the impression that her parents were high up in the German solar energy business HOW ANNA MANAGED TO SECURE MONEY Sorokin sought a $22 million loan from Fortress Investment Group in 2017 to fund her arts club after showing the private equity firm fake documents claiming she had a 60 million euro fortune. They said they would consider it if she put up $100,000 for them to do due diligence, which is basically a background check of her financial records. She managed to get a $100,000 from a different bank, City National, by convincing them to give her an overdraft that she promised to repay within days. Sorokin then gave the $100,000 to Fortress. They spent $45,000 of it carrying out their financial review before Sorokin asked for $55,000 back, claiming she no longer needed their services. She never repaid City National. Instead, she managed to spend the entire $55,000 within a month to fund her lavish lifestyle. She also resorted to depositing bad checks and transferring funds out before they bounced - a process called check kiting. This is how she got the $30,000 to pay 11 Howard via a wire transfer. Between April 7 and April 11, she deposited $160,000 in bad checks into her Citibank account and transferred $70,000 out before they bounced. In August, she opened a different account with a different bank, Signature, deposited $15,000 in bad checks and withdrew $8,200 before they bounced. Advertisement Sorokin sought this $100,000 after Fortress agreed to consider her loan request if she provided the funds for them to do due diligence, which is basically a background check of her financial records. She gave the $100,000 to Fortress and they spent $45,000 of it carrying out their financial review. Sorokin then asked for the remaining $55,000 back, claiming she no longer needed their services. She never repaid City National. Instead, she managed to spend the entire $55,000 within a month to fund her lavish lifestyle. Between April 7 and April 11 in 2017, prosecutors said Sorokin deposited $160,000 in bad checks into her Citibank account and transferred $70,000 before the checks could bounce. In August, prosecutors said Sorokin opened a bank account with Signature Bank and deposited $15,000 of bad checks into the account. She withdrew about $8,200 in cash before the checks were returned. Sorokin ended up being kicked out of the 11 Howard after the hotel realized they didn't have a credit card on file despite her racking up $30,000 in charges. When the hotel pressed her for payment, Sorokin told them a wire transfer was on the way. Citibank eventually did send the wire transfer for the full $30,000 amount, which prosecutors said she paid for using money from bad checks. But the hotel still locked Sorokin out of her hotel room in May 2017 while she was away on a trip to Nebraska because she couldn't provide a working credit card. Sorokin had chartered a private plane that cost $35,400 to and from the Berkshire Hathaway shareholders meeting in Omaha, Nebraska so she could try and meet billionaire Warren Buffet. She never paid the bill. That same month, Sorokin embarked on a $62,000 extravagant trip to Morocco that she had promised two friends - Vanity Fair photo editor Rachel Deloache Williams and her personal trainer Kacy Duke. They checked into a $7,000-a-night villa at the five star resort La Mamounia. Williams would later tell authorities she was forced to put the bill for the hotel on her credit card and that Sorokin had promised to pay her back $70,000 when they returned to New York. Sorokin was scolded by the judge during her trial for delaying proceedings because she wasn't happy with her outfit choices and treating the trial like a 'fashion show' Months later when she hadn't been paid back, Williams reported Sorokin to police and then the New York district attorney's office. Sorokin was not found guilty of grand larceny in relation to the $62,000 she was accused of stealing from Williams. She was arrested in October 2017 for stealing $275,000 through multiple scams between November 2016 and August 2017. It emerged during the trial that Williams had helped set up her arrest by arranging a lunch for the pair in Los Angeles. Almost as quickly as Sorokin was arrested, producers and screenwriters were clambering to secure the rights to her story. There are two productions in the works: a Netflix series produced by Grey's Anatomy creator Shonda Rhimes and a dueling HBO series by Lena Dunham. During her trial, she was lambasted by the judge for seeming to care more about the productions than the trial. She was also reduced to tears several times during the trial when the judge scolded her for delaying proceedings because she wasn't happy with her outfit choices and treating the trial like a 'fashion show'. The one-time darling of the New York social scene and her attorney had enlisted the services of a stylist for her courtroom appearances. Her stylist said that one of the factors weighing on outfit choices was that Sorokin's courtroom style could affect how she is portrayed in the possible Netflix and HBO series about her. Colin Garness, now 50, was just seven months old when the Aberdonian Express he was travelling on with his parents derailed during its journey from King's Cross to Aberdeen A father-of-three who survived the 1969 Morpeth rail disaster when he was just a baby has revealed he could have been killed if his mother hadn't moved him shortly before the crash. Colin Garness, 50, was seven months old when The Aberdonian Express he was travelling on with his parents derailed during its journey from London King's Cross to Aberdeen. The train sped around the infamous 'Morpeth Curve' at 84mph at 1.30am on May 7 and all 11 carriages careered off the tracks - killing six people and injuring 103, including Mr Garness's parents. Mr Garness's father, Colin Senior, suffered a broken shoulder but managed to hand his baby to firemen who had cut a hole through the wreckage of the family's sleeper cabin. His mother, Jackie Garness, became trapped when the carriage fell on to its side and injured her back. She had to be cut out of the mangled compartment and was loaded on to one of 36 ambulances that arrived at the scene. Mr Garness now lives in Dundee with his wife Anne (centre) and children (L to R) Murray, 11, Elizabeth, 12 and Emily, 14 Moments before the distracted driver sped around the 98 degree bend, Mrs Garness had moved Colin Junior to the end of the bed after he woke up crying. She believes that if she hadn't done that, Colin may have been crushed to death. Speaking 50 years after the crash, Colin Junior told the Mirror: 'We'd been in a sleeper compartment, dad on the top bunk, mum and me below. During the night I woke crying, and mum moved me to the end of the bed. 'She always said if she hadn't done that I could have been crushed to death and she counts her blessings.' Once Colin Junior had been handed to firemen he was looked after by a local couple before he was taken to hospital in Newcastle upon Tyne for a precautionary check. His parents were taken to Ashington Hospital - 30 miles away from their son. Mrs Garness wasn't reunited with baby Colin for two days until nurses brought him to her as she wept with relief. Colin Junior now lives in Dundee with his wife Anne and children Emily, 14, Elizabeth, 12, and Murray, 11. His mother, Jackie, and father, Colin Senior, were both injured during the crash which killed six people and injured 103. Mrs Garness believes that her son could have been crushed if she hadn't moved him to the end of the bed earlier than night He says that he knew about the crash from a very young age because his parents were keen to make him aware how lucky he was to have survived. His mother, then aged 21, and father, then aged 23, had been travelling back to Lossiemouth, Scotland, after visiting Mrs Garness's parents in Nottingham. A full inquiry into the crash was carried out by Permanent Secretary to the Environment Department, Colonel JRH Robertson, who found that the train driver was solely responsible. Leslie Byers, 48, failed to brake in time when he approached the curve because he was distracted by a letter from his bosses which asked him to explain why he was four minutes late to an earlier shift. The Colonel wrote: 'He struck me as a very good type of driver and a careful and conscientious man. He did not seek to excuse himself in any way.' Five people were killed on the same bend in 1877 and it wasn't until a further 35 people were injured in 1984 that a ruling came into fruition which decided that floodlit warnings should be placed well before Britain's tightest bend He said the driver had taken 'the implied criticism too much to heart'. Five people were killed on the same bend in 1877 when the stretch of tracks had a 40mph speed limit. Although there was a ruling in 1971 which decided that floodlit warnings with the speed limit should be placed well before Britain's tightest bend, it wasn't until another crash in 1984 that these were put in place. The 1984 crash saw another sleeper train become derailed. It injured 35 people. Colin Junior said he and his family don't hold any ill will toward Mr Byers and feel bad that he has to live with the death of six people on his conscience. Mr and Mrs Garness made a scrapbook about the tragedy for their son. Colin Junior recently showed the scrapbook to his daughters but said that the contents are tinged with sadness because he is reminded of the six families whose lives were ruined that day. He said: 'I was just a very lucky baby'. A woman travelling on a cruise ship from Ireland to Florida is feared to have gone overboard after going missing. The ship, MS Amsterdam, was turned around by the captain to search for the woman after she did not report to a ship-wide call out yesterday. The liner left Glengariff, in County Cork, Ireland, on Tuesday evening and was headed to Fort Lauderdale, in Florida. A woman travelling on the MS Amsterdam cruise ship (pictured in Sydney) from Ireland to Florida is feared to have gone overboard after going missing The woman is said to have gone missing at around 1.30am. One passenger revealed that the missing woman 'either fell or jumped off the ship just off the coast of Ireland', Cruise Law News reported. HM Coastguard said they had been coordinating the search for the missing woman, but that it has now been called off. A spokesman said: 'HM Coastguard had been coordinating the search for a missing woman, who was last seen on a cruise ship in the early hours of Wednesday morning, approximately 240nm (275miles) south west of Malin Head, Ireland' 'The search was terminated yesterday evening, pending further information. Our thoughts are with all those involved.' Maria Luciano Hernandez, who was on the ship, said on Facebook yesterday morning that passengers had been informed by the captain that coast guards were looking for the passenger. The ship was turned around 400km from the Irish port of Glengariff after the woman went missing Maria Luciano Hernandez, who was on the ship, said on Facebook yesterday morning that passengers had been informed by the captain that coast guards were looking for the passenger She added yesterday afternoon that the search for the woman by coastguard had been 'discontinued' after 'many hours' She said all passengers had been accounted for when the ship left Ireland. 'Rough seas! Woman missing (overboard?)! Captain Mercer turned Amsterdam around to look for her because no response after Captain's call,' she said. 'Yesterday was our last port of call. All accounted for last night. Pray we find her aboard ship asleep somewhere!' She added yesterday afternoon that the search for the woman by coastguard had been 'discontinued' after 'many hours'. 'Captain Mercer just informed us that the search for our missing passenger, jointly conducted with the assistance of emergency marine operations from various countries has been discontinued after many hours,' she wrote. 'It is unlikely that given the weather conditions of rough seas and chilly waters the passenger would have survived after so many hours of search. Requiem in pace,' she added. A Chinese city has drafted a new law to protect the welfare of child models after a three-year-old girl was brutally kicked by her mother while doing modelling work. The proposed regulation was put forward by the authorities of Hangzhou and is the first of its kind in China. The draft bans companies from hiring any children under the age of 10 as their 'brand ambassadors'. It also prohibits adults from beating or scolding child models during commercial activities. In China, an experienced child model can earn up to 17 for each outfit they model (file photo) Companies and parents are not allowed to put children on modelling projects longer than a month or force them to work continuously for more than a week, according to China News citing the proposal. Any commercial events involving child models should not last for more than four hours, the report added. The authorities also demand that parents and businesses should not make children wear clothing or hold poses that are not deemed appropriated for their ages. The law was drafted jointly by the public prosecutor and market regulator of the Binjiang district in Hangzhou. A Chinese mother has been caught in a viral video savagely kicking her young daughter in the backside as punishment. It is said the girl, a child model, had failed to pose properly in a shoot The authorities took actions after a mother was caught kicking her three-year-old daughter when the girl was modelling work in Binjiang last month. The incident was captured by a 10-second trending clip which showed the child, who was wearing a yellow top and a white skirt, being savagely kicked in the backside by her mother. The young victim, known as Niu Niu, had worked all day when she was brutally treated by her parent, according to a video report from BJ News. Insiders said three-year-old Niu Niu (left) had to model for many clients at the same time and was overworked. Many shops in China have removed pictures featuring the girl in protest It was reported that Niu Niu had worked as a fashion model for about six months and was popular among online stores who need cute children to pose for pictures while wearing their products. Niu Niu's mother issued a public apology shortly after on Weibo. She thanked the public for giving her advice and pointing out her mistake, but denied the allegations of child abuse. She said she had not intended to harm the girl and felt 'deeply sorry' for the matter. She begged the public to forgive her. In China, an experienced child model can earn 80-150 yuan (9-17) for each outfit they model. They are usually required to complete one shoot within four minutes, or 15 shoots in an hour. However, there is currently no law in China to protect the rights of those minors. A cafe has been ordered to pay out an Instagram influencer after an agreement over paid posts 'turned sour'. Chloe Roberts struck up a deal with Legacy Camberwell in Melbourne to get paid $300 a promotional post on her Instagram page which boasts more than 125,000 followers. The $300 sum for simply snapping a photo of her dining at Legacy and posting it is relatively small to the $1,200 Ms Roberts can sometimes rake in for paid content. The fitness ambassador's Instagram shows off an enviable lifestyle of beach photos, skimpy bikinis, fine dining, festivals, holidays and workout posts. But the agreement between the influencer and cafe owner, Con 'Costa' Katsogiannis, broke down after she deleted several of her promotional posts for the cafe, much to his dismay. Chloe Roberts struck up a deal with Legacy Camberwell in Melbourne to get paid $300 per promotional post on her Instagram page which boasts over 125,000 followers - but the agreement has since turned sour The agreement between the influencer and Legacy's owner Con 'Costa' Katsogiannis broke down after Ms Roberts deleted several of her promotional posts for the cafe, much to his dismay The case came before The Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal on Monday, which sided with Ms Roberts over the 'prematurely' deleted posts. But the matter has shone a light on the peculiar and at times tight-lipped world of influencer branding. Ms Roberts - who retained creative control of her Instagram page - told Mr Katsogiannis she archived old posts, which made them invisible but could be retrieved and re-posted. Ms Roberts - who retained creative control of her Instagram page - told Mr Katsogiannis she archived old posts, which made them invisible but could be retrieved and re-posted Con 'Costa' Katsogiannis, owner of cafe Legacy Camberwell (pictured) took Ms Roberts to court The 19-year-old argued doing so was in the interest of both parties as '90 per cent of the views of an image occur in the first week'. Deleting and archiving old content is a tactic Ms Roberts and many others with a high following use avoid clogging up their Instagram feeds. The social media guru said Instagram accounts with too many old photos become 'unattractive for followers'. The case came before The Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal on Monday, who sided with Ms Roberts over the 'prematurely' deleted posts But Mr Katsogiannis didn't believe the reasoning, saying the posts should remain 'until the client expressly agrees that the image be archived'. After several 'fruitless' meetings Ms Roberts maintained she was owed $2,100. On Monday, VCAT deputy president, Mr Ian Lulham, said he found Ms Robert's claim that 'new images are viewed more than old images' was justifiable. He said that 'in a general sense' Mr Katsogiannis did not not lose value when the old posts were archived. But he could not determine if the influencer was entitled to delete posts at any time. He ordered Mr Katsogiannis to pay Ms Roberts two-thirds of the sum she sought - or $1,400 - as well as her filing fees of $276. Legacy, which boasts more than 32,000 followers, already has a cult following among the 'influencer' community. VCAT deputy president Mr Ian Lulham ordered Mr Katsogiannis to pay Ms Roberts two-thirds of the sum she sought - or $1400 - as well as her filing fees of $276 The matter comes less than two weeks after top Australian chef, Matt Moran, and restaurateurs, Maurice Terzini and Justin Hemmes, vowed to cut off 'B-listers' who try to use their status to eat for free. Last month, former My Kitchen Rules contestant, Andy Vignati, was blasted by Adelaide chef, Duncan Welgemoed, after she asked to dine at his award-winning restaurant Africola in exchange for Instagram posts. Celebrity chef Matt Moran said that he too is often bombarded with similar requests for free food in exchange for promotional posts Matt Moran shared Welgemoed's sentiments, saying he too has been approached by reality stars and C-grade celebrities with similar offers. 'It has gotten worse in the last couple of years. Because you have more of these 'reality TV' celebrities everywhere. Shows like MKR, the Bachelor shows like that,' he told The Daily Telegraph. Maurice Terzini, owner of famed Bondi hotspot Icebergs, has also banned freebies, insisting even the most A-list of stars must pay up. 'We have some of the most powerful celebrities in the world on a daily basis so we would be giving away more than we could afford if we did,' Terzini said. 'Restaurants in Australia are hard enough to make good margins so dinner for free does not sit well.' However some of Australia's ex reality stars disagree, claiming the ban is bad for business. Former Married at First Sight star, Nick Furphy, told Daily Mail Australia on Monday that influencers are the way of the future. Former Married at First Sight star, Nick Furphy ,claims that influencers are the way of the future when it comes to business branding and exposure The 32-year-old reality star regularly posts promotional content for Legacy to his 55,000 Instagram followers. 'Banning certain people like me only limits the amount of people that a cafe appeals to.' Season 4 MAFS star Nick said he can reach thousands of people with a single post - which ultimately helps drive business. The daughter of a D-Day veteran today told his inquest of the distressing 'malnourished' and 'dehydrated' state she found him in at an under-performing care home. Ted Young developed pressure sores and became badly dehydrated during his 11 day stay at the Fairways Care Home in Bournemouth, Dorset. Irene Richards, 67, said when she saw her father he was so weak it appeared he was about to 'breathe his last breath'. D-Day veteran Ted Young, 94, died within a month of being admitted to the Fairways Care Home in Bournemouth, Dorset Mr Young's health declined dramatically during his 11-day stay at The Fairways care home in Bournemouth, pictured. His inquest heard he spent four days bed bound and semi-naked and was covered in bedsores. He had been rushed to hospital suffering from a kidney and a chest infection He was semi-naked and covered in bed sores, having been bed bound for four days. At her request, he was immediately admitted to hospital, who found he was suffering from a kidney and chest infection. He died 10 days later, aged 94. Mr Young, who was just 19 when he landed on Juno Beach, entered Fairways Care Home on January 21, 2018. At the time he was described by his daughter as in 'as good health as could be expected' for a man of his age. She told the inquest at Bournemouth Coroners Court: 'I was told by the staff not to visit him for two weeks just to let him settle in. 'When I arrived I found him in bed in a shirt and an open pair of incontinence pants. 'He looked grey, ill and like he was about to breathe his last breath. 'I left him with my husband and went for my meeting where I was told he had been fine half an hour ago. 'They said the reason he was in bed was because it was more convenient than keeping taking him and and down stairs to apply his creams. Mr Young, pictured in his Royal Engineers uniform, cleared German defences on Juno Beach on D-Day aged just 19 'Staff at the hospital told me they had cause for concern and would be doing a safeguarding report. 'I asked "what do you mean" and they told me he was dehydrated, malnourished and suffering from bedsores.' At the opening of the inquest held last August, it was heard that Mr Young was drowsy and suffering from respiratory distress, pneumonia and a urinary infection when he was admitted to the Royal Bournemouth Hospital on February 1, 2018. He died on February 11, 2018, of a perinephric abscess, which affects the kidneys, and was also suffering from heart disease and bronchiopneumonia, a post mortem examination revealed. At the time of Mr Young's stay, Fairways Care Home was rated as 'Requires Improvement' by the Care Quality Commission (CQC), although it has been rated as 'Good' in a subsequent inspection in July 2018. Police launched an investigation following Mr Young's death after receiving a safeguarding complaint from Royal Bournemouth Hospital, but 'no criminal offences were identified'. Thomas Rutecki, who was the deputy manager at Fairways at the time, admitted the home was a 'confusing' place to work. Mr Young was buried with military honours in Poole, Dorset, following his death Mr Rutecki, who has since left the care home, added: 'There was an ongoing system of changes at that time. 'It would probably be a fair statement to say it was a bit confusing. 'There were people with different levels of knowledge in heads of care positions and I would agree it was confusing.' Mr Young was aged 17 when he joined the Royal Engineers, but only after claiming to be 19. On June 6, 1944 he landed at Juno beach in Normandy and had the job of clearing the German defences. Irene Richards, Ted Young's daughter, pictured, said she was distressed finding her father in such a poor state He then later helped build landing strips in Normandy for Canadian Spitfires to take off and land. Mr Young fought in France, Belgium and Holland where he was badly injured after stepping on a German booby trap. After the war, he worked for many years with construction company JL Kier before moving to Poole, Dorset, after his wife Irene died in 1987. In 2015 he was awarded the Legion d'Honneur - France's highest decoration - for helping to liberate France in the war. After his death he received a hero's send off at his funeral in Poole. The procession, which was led by piper, was watched by nearly 100 people who included serving soldiers, veterans, veterans' groups, and representatives of the Royal Canadian Navy. The inquest continues. George Clooney has filmed a foul-mouthed rant at anti-vaxxers, climate change deniers and other groups calling them 'rampant dumbf******'. Speaking on the Jimmy Kimmel show this Tuesday, the three-time golden globe winner said centuries of knowledge protecting healthcare, security and the planet is being chucked out the window by the groups. Measles cases jumped to their highest level since the disease was eliminated nationwide this year, as too few people are taking the vaccine to prevent the disease. Speaking on Jimmy Kimmel live on Tuesday, George Clooney branded anti-vaxxers and climate change deniers 'dumbf******' In the sketch, the three-time golden globe winner showed a clip of Trump warning that the noise from windmills causes cancer after saying scientific discoveries are under threat from 'dumbf******' Speaking on the show, George Clooney said: 'Science has given us unprecedented knowledge of the natural world from subatomic particles to the majesty of space. 'Science enables us to cure diseases, to communicate across great distances and even to fly. 'Tragically though the volumes of invaluable knowledge gathered over centuries are now threatened by an epidemic of 'dumbf****** idiots saying dumbf****** things.' In the sketch, he also showed a clip of Donald Trump saying 'if you have a windmill anywhere near your house they say the noise causes cancer', before responding with the phrase 'wow'. Mike Pompeo was also quoted by Jimmy Kimmel as saying the melting of sea ice would be very good for trade. Presidential hopeful Pete Buttigieg was forced into a hasty backtrack last week after his team said he supported 'some exceptions' to mandatory vaccines. Speaking on Jimmy Kimmel live on Tuesday, George Clooney branded anti-vaxxers and climate change deniers 'dumbf******' The Democratic mayor of South Bend, Indiana, said there could be 'personal or religious exemptions' allowing people to opt out of the injections. The comments sparked alarm following a surge in measles cases and growing skepticism of vaccinations - fears which have no basis in science. There have been 681 measles cases across 22 states in the first five months of this year, CNN reported, a rise on the number of cases since it was eliminated in 2000. Beforehand, the highest number was 667 cases by the end of the year in 2014. Three videos of the same violent arrest show the moment a horde of police officers violently tackle a 20-year-old man in San Diego. The arrest of Trenelle Cannon has sparked controversy, with his family accusing the San Diego Police Department of police brutality and excessive force. But on Wednesday San Diego Police Chief David Nisleit justified the force during a press conference saying Cannon eluded arrest, had a track record of owning a firearm, and was believed to be armed. Cannon was arrested in Chula Vista on Tuesday at 6pm for outstanding warrants for felony possession of a firearm and robbery. Cannon's girlfriend Shakira Smith who was in the car with him filmed the moment five officers pull Cannon out of his car, form a circle around him and aggressively tackle him to the ground. On Tuesday Trenelle Cannon, 20, was arrested by San Diego Police in Chula Vista, California for outstanding warrants for firearm possession and robbery His girlfriend Shakira Smith filmed his arrest where a group of officers swarm him and one punches him on the ground and posted it online where it sparked outrage One officer is seen throwing punches as the girlfriend shrieks in terror and yells, 'You guys are beating him up!' She posted that video online where it sparked outrage. On Wednesday Cannon's family held a press conference, accusing the SDPD of brutality. 'No child should have to go through this and deal with the police in such a manner,' Cannon's tearful mother Leticia Bates said Wednesday. Police responded to that video in their own press conference Wednesday. 'We hear and understand the communitys concerns about the video being shared on social media,' Chief Nisleit said. 'However, this video does not provide context on what led up to the struggle with Mr. Cannon.' Chief Nisleit said officers tried to arrest Cannon peacefully earlier in the day but he fled, launching a police chase on an Interstate 5 road. The helicopter video shows the moment police pull Cannon's car over then run to open his door and pull him out of the passenger seat. They take him to the side of the road and bring him to the ground. Other cops are seen running to help out and form a circle around Cannon. On Wednesday Chief David Nisleit justified the force during a press conference sharing helicopter and bodycam footage of the controversial arrest The video shows Cannon resisting arrest and tackling this officer to the ground After he resisted several other cops joined in to subdue Cannon Five officers encircled him and one threw punches to arrest him Cops shared helicopter footage of the incident to show the moment they tried to arrest him 'Instead of complying, Cannon lunged forward and tackled the officer to the ground, with the officer landing on his back,' Police Chief Nisleit said A closer look of the arrest was shown in body camera footage. It shows a cop pulling Cannon out of his car but the young man resists arrest. 'Instead of complying, Cannon lunged forward and tackled the officer to the ground, with the officer landing on his back,' Nisleit said. In the struggle the two end up on the ground, leading other officers to come in and take action. Once on the ground, a cop throws punches to subdue Cannon. Police believed he was armed and recovered a gun from the scene of where he initially ran away from the officers. He said officers feared Cannon had another weapon and used a 'combination of physical force and distraction strikes' to restrain him. But Cannon's family maintains that he was the victim of police brutality and excessive force. his tearful mother Leticia Bates pictured above during a press conference Wednesday This gun was retrieved from the place where Cannon first eluded police Tuesday 'This is a very important key to note, once restrained and no longer a threat to officers no additional force was used on Cannon,' Nisleit said. Cannon was booked into jail, charged with carrying a loaded firearm in a public place, robbery, and identity theft. According to San Diego Police, more charges may be filed. He suffered minor scrapes and some officers also suffered minor injuries. According to court records, he has eight criminal cases against Cannon dating back to November 2017. Internal Affairs detectives were notified and will conduct an administrative investigation to determine if the authorities complied with department policy, according to Fox. Emmerdale viewers were left uncomfortable last night after a date rape scene aired which was played by an actor who had previously been convicted of supplying GHB (Gamma-hydroxybutyrate). Actor Kris Mochrie pleaded guilty to supplying GHB and perverting the course of justice in 2010. Ofcom reported that the episode raked in 39 complaints, after it was aired at 7pm on ITV. The character of Victoria Barton, played by Isabel Hodgins, was brutally attacked by Lee, played by Kris Mochrie, and raped during the final moments of the episode after a night out with her pals. Social media users were outraged - with one branding the move as 'the sickest decision ever made in soap world'. The scene aired last night and viewers were shocked at the timing of the scene and that Kris was cast to play it One twitter user said it was the sickest decision ever made in soap world and branded in 'illogical and depraved' One social media user, Johnboy710 said the soap had plumbed the depths by hiring the actor One user tweeted that they wanted to know why Kris had been cast for the role and urged people to google him Little Miss Charmed said: 'I think this is the sickest decision ever made in Soap World. It's so illogical & depraved! Life wtf casting someone who has (more of less) been convicted of similar offences as the character hes playing. I'm all 4 giving some 1 a chance but this is crossing the line #Emmderdale.' Another Twitter user said: 'Well done #Emmerdale you have certaintly plumbed the depths tonight - jailed rape drug supplier #KrisMochrie plays a rapist but you sack someone for a social media post when they were a teenager you bunch of f****** hypocrites.' Others stated that it was not appropriate for the scene to have been aired at 7pm, while some asked why the soap opera had cast him in the first place. Shocking: The character of Victoria Barton, played by Isabel Hodgins, was brutally attacked by Lee, played by Kris Mochrie, and raped during the final moments of the episode after a night out with her pals Lawrence Knight defended the actor and blamed the soap for airing the scene last night During the scene Lee comes on to Victoria in her bedroom, but she demanded he leave. 'You invited me in for a reason!' he said to her, trying to kiss her again. 'I'd like for you to leave now,' Victoria said, opening the door. But Lee slammed it shut, grabbed her by the hair and covered her mouth with his hand. Chucking her onto the bed, he hissed, 'You're a tease. And nobody likes a tease,' as Victoria stared on, terrified. Get out! Lee came on to Victoria in her bedroom, but she demanded he leave. Rich Weaver (pictured above) said it had been inappropriate for the show to have been aired at the time it was Sounds of her being raped could then be heard from the bedroom, as the camera panned away from the closed door. Despite the initial onslaught from social media, some people defended the actor, and instead blamed the soap, claiming they had cast him to spark reaction. Lawrence Kenwright said: 'Kris has served his time, for something he regrets, putting a drug into his friends drink is without any doubt a bad thing. But this guy has served his time and has paid his penance, he is no way a rapist. 'I have personally never met a nicer guy. If anyone is to blame here it is the casting team at Emmerdale, who have cast him to get this exact reaction. An Ofcom spokesperson said: 'We are assessing these complaints against our broadcasting rules, but are yet to decide whether or not to investigate.' Ofcom also said it does not have a breakdown on the variety of complaints. While the majority of viewers tweeting about the incident thought it was great that Emmerdale had tackled the subject of rape, others found it simply aired too early on in the evening and did not make for suitable viewing. However, others noted that viewers were given plenty of warning about the attack and the storyline had been building up to it for some time. Moreover, it was felt that raising awareness was so important, that viewers were pleased that the subject was covered. Isabel, who plays Victoria, tweeted on Wednesday evening: 'Thank you for all your kind messages about tonights episode. 'When emmerdale told me I was doing this storyline I was like oh crumbs that is a huge responsibility!!! If this story helps at least one person Ill be forever thankful.' A spokesperson for Emmerdale said: 'This episode was fully complied in line with the broadcasting code and was clearly signposted pre transmission. Victoria's story may at times be uncomfortable to watch, but ITV has always tackled hard hitting and true to life storylines head on. In doing so, we hope it allows people who may be similarly affected to come forward and speak out.' Mochrie had previously admitted supplying class C drugs to a friend who collapsed in a Hull nightspot from taking the date rape drug in 2008. Mochrie was sentenced to two years in prison at Hull Crown Court in 2010 for the supplying the drug and perverting the course of justice. The actor, who found fame at 17 as Ali Gordon in Brookside, was on a night out in Hull with his friend and reality TV star, Danny Latimer, who starred in Desperate Scousewives and Shipwrecked in 2008. Latimer ended up in am medically induced coma in intensive care after suffering a reaction to the GHB in his drink. Mochrie pleaded guilty as Judge Jeremy Richardson QC told the actor he was 'deliberate and selfish, and intended to divert police from your own criminal conduct'. Shocking video shows Mexican authorities rescue two migrants who were hidden INSIDE the front seats of an abandoned car near the Mexico-United States border on Tuesday afternoon. Street vendors alerted cops to screams that came from a vehicle that was left unattended on a road on the Mexican side of the San Ysidro border crossing. Footage showed police officers cutting and tearing open the car seats to free the Mexican nationals - who were identified only as Modesta, 22, and Macario, 20. The pair were reportedly attempting to illegally cross the border into the United States before human traffickers abandoned the car in the border city of Tijuana, according to Mexican newspaper El Sol de Tijuana. Modesta (center) and Macario (right) were attempted to cross the Mexican-United States border entry point in Tijuana, Mexico, by being hidden inside a car on Tuesday but their plan fell apart when the vehicle was abandoned. Cop (right in the left image) rips passenger seat apart to rescue a woman (pictured center in the right image) shortly after a man (top center in the left image) was pulled out from the driver seat after human traffickers left the pair abandoned inside a car at the Mexico-United States border crossing in Tijuana, Mexico In the shocking cellphone video, one of the cops uses a large kitchen knife to cut through the sides of front passenger seat before Modesta is helped out of car. Another agent also appeared in the video ripping apart the driver's seat, which saved Macario. Cops confiscated a gray Lincoln Town Car, which had license plates from California, for further investigation. Federal cops in Tijuana, Mexico, confiscated the Lincoln Town Car (pictured) that was used by a suspected human smuggler to hide a woman and a man inside the front seats of the vehicle Mexican federal police officers were forced to rip apart in front passengers and driver seats after two people were found hidden inside the seats A member (pictured) of the Mexican federal police force responded to screams that came from an abandoned vehicle near the Mexico-United States border and cut opened a car where a woman was hidden Both were taken to a local hospital for a routine medical examination and remained in custody of the Mexican police. It is unknown if the individuals, who reside in the Mexican Pacific coast state of Guerrero, are related. This is the hilarious moment a climate change's protester's bid to glue himself to a building is thwarted by its automatic doors. Academic Dr Larch Maxey wanted to stick himself to the Bristol City Council building in a bid to get them to declare a climate emergency. The University of Plymouth academic is seen putting glue on his hands and approaching the double doors - but they keep moving away from him as the automatic sensor goes off. After several attempts he is forced to admit defeat and turns to the camera laughing. He and his fellow activists abandoned their 'direct action' protest and decided to unfurl a banner and make a speech instead. Dr Maxey, who is also a member of the eco-warrior group Extinction Rebellion, was acting on behalf of an independent body fielding candidates for the upcoming European elections called Climate and Ecological Emergency Independents. Extinction Rebellion members glued themselves to the Shell headquarters and the London Stock Exchange during two-week demonstrations in London last month. Dr Maxey himself glued himself to the doors of City Hall on the bank of the River Thames. Back in Bristol, this is not the first time the University of Plymouth researcher has taken part in climate change protests. Academic Dr Larch Maxey wanted to stick himself to the Bristol City Council building in a bid to get them to declare a climate emergency The University of Plymouth academic, who lives in Totnes, Devon, is seen putting glue on his hands and approaching the double doors - but they keep moving away from him as the automatic sensor goes off In December he was one of a large group who blockaded the city's BBC headquarters. One of his fellow candidates, Mohir Rahman, read a list of demands while glued to the doors of the building. He said: 'Words are not enough, declaring a climate emergency is a great first step and we urge all MEP candidates to declare the Emergency, but we also call on them to commit to going zero carbon throughout Europe by 2030 and to appoint Citizen's Assemblies of ordinary people to decide the policies needed for this urgent transformation of our society. Pictured: Dr Larch Maxey tries to take on the doors at Bristol City Council's offices After several attempts he is forced to admit defeat and turns to the camera laughing 'Bristol City Council should be applauded for being the first Council to declare a Climate Emergency in November last year. 'But we need actions as much as words and not enough is being done at a fast enough pace. 'I'm also standing here because we need different kinds of voices in our politics. I want to highlight the risks of 'Green Neo-Colonialism' if the rush towards renewables is carried out with what Michael Gove last week described as the current 'extractive economy.' Dr Maxey himself glued himself to the doors of City Hall in London on May 3 (From left) Extinction Rebellion's Alan Heath, 55, a research scientist, Jen Witts, 38, a support worker for vulnerable people, and Sian Vaughan 53, a retired headteacher, who glued themselves to the entrances of the London Stock Exchange during protests last month Speaker Nancy Pelosi on Thursday warned that the country is in a constitutional crisis and that more contempt charges against Trump administration officials could come as Attorney General Bill Barr waits for the House to vote on his reprimand. Pelosi told reporters in the Capitol that the contempt citation against Barr will come to the full House for a vote 'when we're ready' and warned President Donald Trump this may not be the end of his war with Congress. 'When were ready well come to the floor,' Pelosi said. 'And well just see because there might be some other contempt of Congress issues that we might want to deal with at the same time,' she added. Speaker Nancy Pelosi said the contempt vote on Attorney General Bill Barr will come to the full House for a vote 'when we're ready' She warned President Donald Trump there could be more contempt of Congress issues Pelosi also said she agreed with House Judiciary Chairman Jerry Nadler that the country is in a 'constitutional crisis.' 'Yes I do agree with Chairman Nadler because the administration has decided that they are not going to honor their oath of office,' she said. Six congressional committees in the House have launched investigations into the Trump administration, citing congressional oversight authority. President Trump has been resisting - he's sued to fight a congressional subpoena for his business records, refused to hand over his tax returns, claimed executive privilege over the full report from special counsel Robert Mueller and ordered his former White House counsel Don McGahn not to testify before Nadler's committee. Any of those moves could trigger another contempt citation. Pelosi said the House still needs to hear from Mueller. 'We'll see if Mueller will testify and that will make a big difference in terms of where we go from here,' she said. President Trump has said the special counsel should not testify. 'Bob Mueller should not testify,' he tweeted last week. Nadler, however, countered the president's advice with a threat to subpoena the special counsel. 'Eventually we will hear from Mueller because we will, if we have to, we will subpoena him,' Nadler told CNN Wednesday evening. 'I certainly hope it doesnt come to our necessity to subpoena him,' he added. The House Judiciary Committee has requested Mueller to testify but no date has been set. House Judiciary Chairman Jerry Nadler said the country is in a 'constitutional crisis' after Democrats voted to hold Attorney General Bill Barr in contempt The vote against Barr came after President Donald Trump exerted executive privilege over the full, unredacted version of the special counsel Robert Mueller's report The speaker has been balancing the voices in her party who want to proceed with impeachment against the president and those who worry a move could backfire on them in the 2020 election. 'It's about the facts, the law, and in that case, the rules of the House,' Pelosi said. 'And that is the path that I am following. It's about the facts and the law. Now, as I have said yesterday, the president is almost self-impeaching because he is every day demonstrating more obstruction of justice and disrespect for Congress' legitimate role to subpoena. So again, this is very methodical. It's very constitution-based. It's very law-based. It's very factually based. It's not about pressure. It's about patriotism.' She noted: 'Impeachment is one of the most divisive things you can do, dividing a country, unless you really have your case with great clarity for the American people.' Her words of caution come after Democrats on the House Judiciary Committee voted Wednesday to hold Barr in contempt over his refusal to comply with their subpoena over the full, unredacted version of Mueller's report. Trump exerted executive privilege over the unredacted report on Wednesday morning - setting up a court battle between him and Congress. 'We are now in a constitutional crisis,' Nadler said Wednesday after the House Judiciary Committee voted 24-16 along partisan lines to hold Barr in contempt of Congress. Nadler cited Trump's use of his executive privilege on Wednesday - which was the first time he's waged that weapon in his war against Congress - and his panel's vote on Barr. 'This was a very grave and momentous step we were forced to take today to move a contempt citation against the attorney general of the United States. We did not relish doing this but we have no choice,' Nadler said. 'The House will have to vote that contempt citation to begin the court battle. There can be no higher stakes than this attempt to take all power away from Congress and away from the American people,' he added. He did not have a date the full House will vote but merely said it would happen 'soon.' The New York Democrat also compared Trump to Richard Nixon, who resigned to avoid impeachment. Nixon also tried to claim executive privilege to keep Congress from getting the tapes he made of conversations in the Oval Office but the Supreme Court ordered him to hand them over. 'The White House makes an nonsensical claim in the Department of Justice for these various documents they say are executive privilege. Most are not executive privilege. It's not a blanket bar,' Nadler said. 'In the Nixon case the tapes, you will remember or have read about the tapes. These were the most sensitive through executive privilege. They were private conversations between the president and his advisers and the Supreme Court ruled 8-0 that the interests of the public in justice and accountability outweighed the interests of the president in privacy and ordered those tapes revealed. It led to Nixon's resignation. Number one. Number two - executive privilege is designed to get candor by the president's advisers to advise him,' Nadler added. 'Once that has gone public, once the president has said it's okay to share those conversations or evidence with the Mueller investigation, with your private attorney, with whoever, there is no more privilege. It's done already. Everything we have requested, the unredacted parts, all the material in the redacted parts of the Mueller report, none of it is privileged because all of it they waived to Mueller or to whoever,' he argued. The House Judiciary Committee voted 24-16 along partisan lines to hold Attorney General Bill Barr in contempt of Congress White House press secretary Sarah Sanders said President Trump had no choice but to use executive privilege The White House argued Democrats forced them to use executive privilege. 'Faced with Chairman Nadler's blatant abuse of power, and at the Attorney General's request, the President has no other option than to make a protective assertion of executive privilege,' White House press secretary Sarah Sanders said in a statement. 'The Attorney General has been transparent and accommodating throughout this process, including by releasing the no-collusion, no-conspiracy, no-obstruction Mueller Report to the public and offering to testify before the Committee. These attempts to work with the Committee have been flatly rejected. They didn't like the results of the report, and now they want a redo,' she added. The Justice Department slammed the vote, saying Congress could not force them to break the law. 'The attorney general could not comply with the House Judiciary Committee's subpoena without violating the law, court rules, and court orders, and without threatening the independence of the Department's prosecutorial functions,' said Justice Department spokeswoman Kerri Kupec in a statement. 'It is deeply disappointing that elected representatives of the American people have chosen to engage in such inappropriate political theatrics. Regrettably, Chairman Nadler's actions have prematurely terminated the accommodation process and forced the president to assert executive privilege to preserve the status quo. No one, including Chairman Nadler and his committee, will force the Department of Justice to break the law.' The Justice Department had tried to pre-empt a contempt vote by offering Democrats a less-redacted version of the report, which they refused. Democrats argue they do not want Barr to break the law and release grand jury information, merely to join their effort to ask the courts to unseal material for the grand jury for committee use. The Justice Department is arguing that under Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure they are not allowed to release the grand jury information. Mueller used grand juries to get subpoenas and search warrants in addition to the indictments he handed down. But Democrats point out Congress has managed twice to obtain federal grand jury information in prior special counsel investigations - Watergate and Ken Starr's probe. Barr offered to let a select group of Democrats view the entire report except for the grand jury information - but Democratic lawmakers denied his offer, saying they wanted to see it all. Sanders slammed Democrats for not taking Barr up on his offer. 'I think it's so absurd this idea that Congress doesn't get to see the Mueller report. In fact, there's a less redacted version of the Mueller report sitting there waiting on them to come and look at it,' she told reporters at the White House on Wednesday. 'Not a single Democrat has even taken the time to go and look at it. They're asking for information they know they can't have. The attorney general is actually upholding the law,' she added. 'The attorney general is protecting information, grand jury information, confidential information, that he cannot release. But the fact that the chairman knows that and he continues to ignore it, is absolutely absurd,' she noted. GOP Rep. Jim Jordan, one of Trump's biggest defenders on Capitol Hill, said Democrats were trying to destroy Barr's reputation House Judiciary Chairman Jerry Nadler said he fight was about Congress' oversight power During Wednesday's six-and-a-half-hour hearing, Republicans slammed Democrats for holding a political dog-and-pony show. GOP Rep. Jim Jordan, one of Trump's biggest defenders on Capitol Hill, said Democrats were trying to destroy Barr's reputation because of concerns about what the attorney general would find in his investigation of whether or not the FBI spied on Trump's campaign during the 2016 election. 'Bill Barr is following the law and what's his reward? Democrats hold him in contempt,' Jordan said. 'I don't think today's actually about getting information. I don't think it's about getting the un-redacted Mueller report.' 'I think it's all about trying to destroy Bill Barr because Democrats are nervous he's going to get to the bottom of everything. He's going to find out how and why this investigation started in the first place,' he added. But Nadler said during the hearing the fight was not about Mueller's report but Congress' oversight power. 'Our fight is not just about the Mueller report. Our fight is about defending the rights of Congress as an independent branch to hold the president, any president accountable,' he noted. Worried passengers on an Aer Lingus flight pushed open the plane's emergency exits and escaped onto the wings in a panic after mistaking the pilot's instructions. The scare broke out on an Airbus A320 plane at Cork Airport in Ireland after the captain told customers to 'disembark the aircraft immediately'. He had meant for those on board to leave quickly through the usual exits, but alarmed passengers took matters into their own hands and forced their way out in a 'chaotic' evacuation via the wings and exit slides. The flight crew had ordered passengers off after they smelled fumes on the plane, according to a newly released report. Evacuation: Passengers on board this Aer Lingus plane left the Airbus jet through the overwing exits and escape slides after mistaking the pilot's instructions The plane had been setting off from Cork on a journey to London Heathrow in November 2017 when the panic broke out. After noticing a burning smell, the pilot made a Mayday call and told air traffic controllers he was returning to Cork. Once he had brought the plane to a halt on the runway he decided to order the passengers off. As there was no sign of a fire he decided the passengers could disembark without the evacuation slides. However, concerned customers mistook the 'unfamiliar instruction' and made for the emergency exits. They were told to 'use the nearest available exit' and some of them took that to mean the emergency doors. Passengers would not necessarily know the difference between a 'disembark' and an 'evacuate' instruction, cabin crew members told investigators. One passenger praised the flight captain's 'excellent' handling of the problem but said the cabin had been 'stuffy' and that passengers did not know what to do. The scare broke out on an Airbus A320 plane (stock photo) at Cork Airport in Ireland after the pilot told customers to 'disembark the aircraft immediately' Calling the evacuation 'chaotic', he said the escape was 'frightening' and that children on board had become upset. Investigators said the people on board may have panicked further when they looked through the window and saw a fire crew on the runway. The emergency services had 'positioned themselves around the aircraft, pointing fire hoses at the aircraft'. In addition, some passengers were able to tell from the sound of the pilot's voice that he was wearing an oxygen mask, heightening their concern. An emergency worker also boarded the plane but the passengers had likely begun to push the doors open by then, the report said. Some 32 passengers climbed onto the wings, of whom around half went to use the exit slides. There were no injuries, although one passenger became unwell and was taken to hospital afterwards. Investigators found an on-board vent fan was responsible for the fumes. A Cincinnati company that's angling to buy a troubled auto assembly plant in Lordstown, Ohio says it's willing to commit to using a unionized workforce if that will move the deal to completion. President Donald Trump said Wednesday that Workhorse Group, a producer of electric vehicles, would buy the plant, restoring the 1,700 jobs GM cut in March when it ended production of the Chevrolet Cruze. The United Automobile Workers union quickly said Wesnesday that it wouldn't get behind the deal and demanded that GM reopen the plant on its own. Workhorse's sudden willingness to work with union labor for the first time could save Trump's plan. Unlike GM, Workhorse has never run a union shop. It warned investors in a December statement to the SEC that 'the unionization of our labor force could negatively impact our companys health.' With pressure from GM and the White House bearing down, however, Workhorse says union labor is 'something we would be willing to look at' and that it expects to have a UAW contract. Spokesman Tom Colton told DailyMail.com on Thursday that the new corporate entity buying the plant, whith includes Workhorse as a significant shareholder, has 'committed to hiring former GM Lordstown employees. And we think those employees will be represented by the UAW, and that's our intention at this point.' The Lordstown factory's closure put an end to 1,700 jobs in a swing state that the president needs to win in 2020 if he is to have a second term Workhorse Group, a Cincinnati-based company that makes eletric delivery vehicles, plans to take over the Lordstown plant and turn out electric pickup trucks like this one Jim Cain, a senior manager of news relations at GM, told DailyMail.com late on Wednesday that 'Workhorse has communicated to us their interest in working with the UAW.' 'They said employees could be unionized, subject to working out details regarding initial employment terms,' Cain said. A UAW spokesman did not provide a comment for this article. GM's decision in November to shutter the Lordstown factory and four others assembly plants drew scores of news stories about a projection of 15,000 lost jobs, along with panic among Trump's political advisers. Losing thousands of Ohio jobs threatened to become a black eye for the administration in a key 2020 swing state, at a time when the president is boasting about near-record low unemployment rates. Lordstown is in Trumbull County, Ohio, near the small rust-belt city of Youngstown. Trump won Trumbull by just 6,000 votes in 2016. Trump seemed to sense the pressure on Wednesday night during a rally speech onthe Florida panhandle. President Trump announced Wednesday on Twitter that the storied Lordstown, Ohio General Motors auto plant would reopen, and begged GM CEO Mary Barra during his speech to get the deal done or reopen the plant on her own Trump has been badgering Barra, pictured with him in 2017, to close an overseas plant instead of the Ohio facility; he needs voter support in Ohio to win re-election in 2020 WHAT WORKHORSE GROUP TOLD INVESTORS ABOUT UNIONS IN A DECEMBER SEC STATMENT 'Our business may be adversely affected by union activities.' 'Although none of our employees are currently represented by a labor union, it is common throughout the automotive industry for many employees at automotive companies to belong to a union, which can result in higher employee costs and increased risk of work stoppages. Our employees may join or seek recognition to form a labor union, or we may be required to become a union signatory. 'Our production facility in Union City, Indiana was purchased from Navistar. Prior employees of Navistar were union members and our future work force at this facility may be inclined to vote in favor of forming a labor union. Furthermore, we are directly or indirectly dependent upon companies with unionized work forces, such as parts suppliers and trucking and freight companies, and work stoppages or strikes organized by such unions could have a material adverse impact on our business, financial condition or operating results. 'If a work stoppage occurs, it could delay the manufacture and sale of our trucks and have a material adverse effect on our business, prospects, operating results or financial condition. The mere fact that our labor force could be unionized may harm our reputation in the eyes of some investors and thereby negatively affect our stock price. 'Consequently, the unionization of our labor force could negatively impact our companys health.' Advertisement 'Will you make a deal or open it please? I'm getting killed with that plant,' he said, directing his angst at GM CEO Mary Barra. Trump had praised Barra in a tweet hours earlier for making the deal but cautioned that it was 'subject to a UAW agreement etc.' He announced that GM agreed to sell the Lordstown plant and hire 450 additional new employees in Ohio, investing $700 million in the Ohio towns of Toledo, Moraine and Parma. The UAW is the most powerful U.S. automotive labor union, with 400,000 dues-paying members working for 1,600 employers in North America In a joint statement Wednesday with GM, Workhorse CEO Duane Hughes referred only to a 'potential agreement.' The statement said GM 'has been in discussions with the UAW' since its November announcement that the Lordstown factory would close. Another factor that could complicate the Lordstown deal is the fate of a proposed agreement between Workhorse and the U.S. Postal Service. The company wants to use the plant to build electric mail delivery vehicles, but its contract has not been finalized. Barra said in a statement that '[w]e remain committed to growing manufacturing jobs in the U.S., including in Ohio, and we see this development as a potential win-win for everyone,' 'Workhorse has innovative technologies that could help preserve Lordstowns more than 50-year tradition of vehicle assembly work,' she said. But UAW Vice President Terry Dittes insisted in a statement that instead of selling, 'General Motors should assign a product to the Lordstown facility and continue operating it.' Trump tweeted a digital fist-pump on Wednesday, praising Barra, Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine and Sen. Rob Portman Why it matters: GM is a major employer across a swathe of three states won by Trump, two of which had been seen as part of Hillary Clinton's 'blue wall' GM Lordstown workers rallied outside the plant on March 6 as they prepared to stand down after the plant produced cars and other vehicles for 50 years 'A federal lawsuit filed by the UAW over the closing of the Lordstown, Baltimore and Warren facilities is still pending, and the UAW will continue its effort to protect the contractual rights of its members at these locations,' the union boss said. 'The parties regularly discuss product placement issues during National Negotiations which will begin in July of this year. We will monitor this situation as it develops to determine what course of action will most benefit UAW-represented workers at General Motors.' Trump stepped up pressure on Barra in March with three days of digital arm-twisting complaining that GM and the union were dragging their feet and leaving laid-off workers in the lurch. 'General Motors and the UAW are going to start "talks" in September/October. Why wait, start them now!' he tweeted at the time. 'Get that big, beautiful plant in Ohio open now. Close a plant in China or Mexico, where you invested so heavily pre-Trump, but not in the U.S.A. Bring jobs home!' he wrote. Workhorse said in a Securities and Exchange Commission filing in December that a unionized workforce was a serious threat to its viability. In a section headed 'Our business may be adversely affected by union activities,' the company cautioned that unionizing 'can result in higher employee costs and increased risk of work stoppages.' 'The mere fact that our labor force could be unionized may harm our reputation in the eyes of some investors and thereby negatively affect our stock price,' the company added. 'Consequently, the unionization of our labor force could negatively impact our companys health.' An unidentified black man with a weapon was caught on camera forcing his way into a Sprint store in Philadelphia to steal less than $50, with the help of a second man. The man can be seen on surveillance footage recorded on Monday, forcing an employee to his knees before making off with $42 from a cash drawer in the office. The video also shows a second unknown suspect on camera, appearing to act as a lookout at the back entrance of the communications store. No shots were fired and no injuries were reported, the Philadelphia Police Department said. Police are asking anyone with information to contact authorities. The first suspect is seen in the video pointing a handgun at an employee after barreling in while the worker was opening up the store. After forcing the employee to their knees, the suspect then had the worker take him to the office, where the safe was. The suspect then had the safe opened by the employee and removed $42 in cash. An unidentified black man with a weapon (left) was caught on camera forcing his way into a Sprint store in Philadelphia to steal less than $50, with the help of a second man (right) The incident was caught on surveillance footage on Monday, as the employee was ambushed while trying to open the store for business After forcing the employee to their knees, the suspect then had the worker take him to the office, where the safe was Meanwhile, the second suspect was outside near the rear entrance of the store, apparently keeping an eye out as the theft was underway. Both of the men then left the premises, though it's not clear which direction they were headed. Police described the first suspect as a black male with a light complexion and a medium build, standing approximately five-feet-eight-inches to five-feet-ten-inches. In the video he was shown wearing a dark colored mask covering the lower portion of his face, a dark colored jacket with white 'Nike' and logo, and dark colored pants with white vertical stripes on both legs. He wore black and white 'New Balance' brand sneakers and was armed with a black semi-automatic handgun. The suspect then had the safe opened by the employee and removed $42 in cash (shown) Police described the first suspect (shown) as a black male with a light complexion and a medium build, standing approximately five-feet-eight-inches to five-feet-ten-inches Meanwhile, the second suspect (shown facing forward) was outside near the rear entrance of the store, apparently keeping an eye out as the theft was underway. Police described the second suspect as a black male with medium dark complexion, appearing to be in his late teens to early 20s with a medium build Police described the second suspect as a black male with medium dark complexion, appearing to be in his late teens to early 20s with a medium build. He was wearing a dark colored hooded sweatshirt. The incident occurred at the Sprint store located at 7223 Crittenden Street. Authorities said the second suspect was referred to as 'D' or 'Deek' by the first suspect. Police have said if you see the suspects, do not approach them, but instead contact 911 immediately. To submit a tip via telephone, dial 215.686.TIPS (8477) or text a tip to PPD TIP or 773847. All tips will be confidential. Anonymous tips can also be submitted at PhillyPolice.com. Information about this crime or these suspects can also be reported to the Northwest Detective Division's Detective Funk by telephone at 215-686-3353 or 215-686-3354. Meghan McCain's husband has apologized for 'rage tweeting' at Seth Meyers after the comedian's uncomfortable interview with his wife. Pundit Ben Domenech branded the Saturday Night Live alumni an 'unfunny cuck' and 'untalented piece of s**t' in a series of angry tweets after Meyer's interview with McCain aired on Tuesday. Domenech, publisher of The Federalist, deleted the angry tweets a few hours later, and has since posted an apology tweet. 'I love my wife,' he said in the apology on Wednesday. 'I apologize for rage tweeting about how Seth Meyers treated her. I don't like him, I think he's a hack, but I shouldn't have done that. I'm sorry to anyone I offended.' The incident unfolded several hours after McCain, co-host of ABC's The View, appeared in the 11-minute interview. During the interview, Meyers said McCain's criticism of Rep. Ilhan Omar as 'anti-Semetic' was 'dangerous' and put the Democratic congresswoman from Minnesota at risk of death threats. McCain, co-host of ABC's The View, appeared in an 11-minute interview on Meyers' show on Tuesday night, which turned uncomfortable when he grilled her on criticism of Ilhan Omar Ben Domenech, seen above with wife Meghan McCain, tore into Meyers on Twitter in a foul-mouthed tirade, which he quickly deleted and apologized for Hours later, Domenech unloaded on Twitter with a homophobic trope: 'I see that @sethmeyers, the untalented piece of s**t who only has his job because he regularly gargled Lorne Michaels' balls, went after my wife tonight with his idiotic anti-Semitic bulls**t.' 'Seth is an awful person who is known in the industry for how terrible he is. He is a monumental a**hole who is utterly unfunny. He deserves the mockery he receives from all the people who laugh at him,' Domenech said in another tweet, according to the Daily Beast, which took screenshots before they were deleted. He continued: 'Here is proof that white men get ahead despite their obvious lack of talent. It's @sethmeyers, who would beg for a third of the viewers at @TheView. He's awful, untalented, and a perfect definition of a cuck.' 'Cuck,' a reference to cuckoldry, is an insult that originated among hardliner right-wing circles, who accused moderates of being 'cuckservatives,' but has seeped into broader usage as a term to disparage men as weak and spineless. Domenech went on: 'But the best thing is how much all the people around @sethmeyers talk about what a sh***y person he is. Because oh, it is sad. So terrible, But he deserves all of it.' During Meyers' interview with McCain, he brought up McCain's commentary following the synagogue shooting at the Poway, California that left one dead last month. McCain had referred to Omar's controversial prior tweets, saying that both Democrats and Republicans have to tackle anti-Semitism within their own parties. When Meyers asked if there is a way to criticize Israel without being anti-Semitic, McCain advised against talking about 'Jews hypnotizing the world' and saying U.S. foreign policy is 'all about the Benjamins', in reference to Omar's remarks. 'You do keep bringing up the two tweets she apologized for,' Meyers told McCain, 'and I think it's a little unfair to her, especially because...' 'Are you her publicist?' McCain shot back. 'Are you her press person?' Meyers accused McCain of putting Omar (above) in danger by criticizing the congresswoman's remarks on Israel and accusing her of 'anti-Semitism' 'No,' replied Meyers. 'I'm just someone who cares about the fact that there's someone out there who is in a minority, who has had death threats against her, and I think we should all use the same language that you're asking her to be careful about her language. And I would ask that everyone be careful about theirs.' For Domenech's publication The Federalist, senior editor David Harsanyi published a more nuanced rebuttal to Meyers on Wednesday. 'McCain condemned Omars words. She didnt concoct a smear,' Harsanyi argued. He called Meyers' argument that Omar should be given a pass from criticism because she is Muslim and has received death threats 'a transparent tactic to chill speech.' 'The idea that McCain put her in danger, as Meyers suggested, is just a way to try and shut people up,' he wrote. Advertisement A furious row has erupted over today's World War II anniversary parade in Russia after it was claimed invitations had been 'sent to glamorous Instagram models rather than war veterans'. Online models Sasha Markina and Elena Iosifova had seats at the Red Square military showpiece, attended by President Vladimir Putin. Russian media reports also criticised a ticket for the parade going to Liya Diyanova, who runs a beauty parlour brand. The invitations sparked outrage after a 93-year-old war veteran and former Nazi labour camp inmate was denied her dream of attending the parade after she was refused tickets several times. Pictured left: Kamila Diyanova (left) and Liya Diyanova (right), the owners of an elite make-up studio. Pictured right: Elena Iosifova with her grandmother who is a decorated war veteran The Victory Day celebrations were hit by criticism over the invitations for Instagram models Elena Iosifova (left) and Sasha Markina (right) amid claims they had beaten military veterans to the tickets Long line: Russian women in hats and uniforms march during the Victory Day parade attended by President Vladimir Putin Female military operatives march in lines during the Victory Day parade in Moscow marking 74 years since World War II The female recruits smile at the camera in their uniforms as they attend the parade in Moscow on Thursday 'Instead of veterans, invitations to the Victory Day parade are sent to Instagram models,' declared one Russian media outlet, while another said: 'Markina was invited to Victory Day parade instead of veterans'. Ms Markina defended her prominent place, insisting it was 'not related to my Instagram in any way' and saying: 'My boyfriend invited me to the parade, not the government.' Her boyfriend Andrei Kupreev is the son of a veteran of the Soviet War in Afghanistan during the 1970s and 1980s. Ms Iosifova she had watched the parade with her medal-wearing grandmother, who was a military veteran herself, and not because of her Instagram stardom. Former Nazi prisoner Maria Kashtanova, 93, had said she 'would have loved to see the parade' but was denied a ticket, having always watched the showpiece on TV but never been there in person. After an outcry an anonymous donor found her a ticket and she is believed to have travelled to Moscow for today's event. The stinging criticism - and the weather - put a dampener on the parade, held in Moscow to mark 74 years since Russia declared victory over Nazi Germany in World War II. Elena Iosifova (left) and Sasha Markina (right) have both defended their appearance at the Moscow event after a backlash Sasha Markina insisted she had been at the parade to honour the father of her boyfriend Andrey Kupreev (pictured together left), a veteran of the Soviet war in Afghanistan. Pictured right: her invitation to the event The case of Maria Kashtanova (pictured left with her granddaughter Inessa Kholodenina, and right on her own) sparked an outcry after it was revealed the former Nazi labour camp prisoner had been denied tickets to the parade Enjoying their day: Two Russian servicewomen in uniforms and red berets take a selfie on one of their mobile phones today A servicewoman gives a salute during a Victory Day military parade marking the 74th anniversary of the victory over Nazi Germany in the 1941-45 Great Patriotic War Russian Armata tanks roll down Red Square during the Victory Day military parade to celebrate 74 years since the victory in WWII in Red Square in Moscow Russian Ground Forces Commander-in-Chief, Colonel General Oleg Salyukov salutes the troops from Putin's new 120,000 convertible limousine during the Victory Day military parade today Russian President Vladimir Putin delivers a speech in front of St. Basil's Cathedral during the Victory Day parade i which he pledged to 'guarantee the high capabilities of our armed forces' Russian Yars RS-24 intercontinental ballistic missile systems roll through Red Square during the Victory Day military parade in downtown Moscow today Vladimir Putin kisses his class teacher at school Vera Gurevich during an official reception marking 74 years since the victory in WWII, in Kremlin Russian military police officers stand in formation during a Victory Day Parade in the city of Grozny, Chechen Republic Former Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev (centre) is surrounded by his assistants as he arrives to attend the Victory Day military parade in Red Square today Speaking at the ceremony Vladimir Putin warned 'the lessons of the past war are relevant once again' as he made his case for 'guaranteeing the high capabilities of our armed forces'. The Kremlin strongman watched on as 13,000 troops and more than 130 pieces of weaponry were paraded through the capital as a show of Russian military strength. Among the hundreds of pieces of military hardware paraded in front of veterans and dignitaries was Russia's Yars mobile intercontinental nuclear missile launcher and its advanced S-400 air defence missile system. It also included military equipment, ranging from a T-34 tank - renowned for its effectiveness in World War II - to lumbering Yars ICBM launch units, ground-to-air rocket missile systems and Russian Armata tanks. However Putin was forced into the last minute cancellation of a major military flypast over Red Square amid warnings of bad weather. Crowds of people carry portraits of their relatives who fought in World War II as they take part in the Immortal Regiment march on Tverskaya Street in Moscow Russian Pacific Fleet Commander, Admiral Sergei Avakyants reviews the troops in a vintage car during the Victory Parade Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu and Chief of the Russian Land Forces Oleg Salyukov drive Aurus cabriolets during the Victory Day parade A Russian honour guard soldier marching across Red Square in Moscow today. A flypast was cancelled at the last minute over fears of thunder and cloud Osa ground-to-air missile systems salute during the Victory Day military parade marking the 74th anniversary of the victory over Nazi Germany Putin said: 'The lessons of the past war are relevant once again. We have done and will do all that is necessary to guarantee the high capabilities of our armed forces. 'At the same time, Russia is open for cooperation with all who are ready to resist terrorism, neo-Nazism and extremism. 'We call on all countries to recognise our common responsibility to create a security system that is effective and equal for everyone.' Those in the modern Russian army remember the 'oath' of Soviet soldiers who fought Nazi Germany, he added: 'I die but I will not surrender'. Little soldiers: Controversy over Russian children in WWII uniform A youngster in full military uniform taking part in the Victory Day parade When kindergarten staff told Lyubov Sobol her five-year-old daughter needed to come in wearing a miniature military uniform ahead of Russia's World War II Victory Day, she was shocked and angry. But dressing children up in the attire for May 9, the day Russia commemorates Soviet victory over the Nazis, is far from an unusual practice in the country. The trend has grown over President Vladimir Putin's two decades in power, as officials highlight the conflict to boost patriotic sentiment. Child-sized khaki tunics, jaunty caps with a red star and even wooden replica weapons are widely on sale and many youngsters wear such outfits to Victory Day events across Russia. While popular, such outfits have also sparked controversy among parents and professionals. Sobol said: 'As far as I know, the initiative came from above. I don't agree with it,' she said, criticising what she called 'forcing military subject matter on children.' 'This militarised masquerade is coming to every corner of Russia,' she said, adding that when she was at school there was no such custom. Russian children dressed in military uniform and being taught to march for the biggest Kremlin armed forces display of the year. One group of children were seen parading with models of the American M16 rifle Sobol, a lawyer who works with opposition leader Alexei Navalny, persuaded the state kindergarten to cancel the plans for children to wear military gear, with the support of other parents. 'Kindergartens should teach children to treat people well,' she said. 'Not how to hold a machine gun.' In response, conservative pro-Kremlin media accused her of a lack of patriotism, but she insisted she acted to protect 'the rights and interests of people living in our country.' Several other Moscow schools and kindergartens this year have asked children to wear retro uniforms for celebratory concerts and photoshoots, parents told AFP. Others were instructed to bring military-themed ribbons or soldiers' caps. A spokeswoman for the Moscow education department said that the choice of clothing was 'most likely' an individual decision by schools. A poll by the liberal Echo of Moscow radio station found 81 percent of Muscovites thought it was 'wrong' for children to wear military uniform while 17 percent said this was 'OK'. Advertisement Servicemen march in formation with their rifles over their shoulders during a Victory Day military parade in Red Square in Moscow Russian President Vladimir Putin shakes hands with WWII veterans prior to a wreath-laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier Servicemen march in formation. Russian officials indicated that 'cloud-spiking' had taken place ahead of today's parade, but had not stopped the threat of thunder Russian T-14 Armata tanks roll through Red Square during the Victory Day military parade in downtown Moscow Honour guards sing as they stand in formation during the Victory Day military parade, which was hampered by the threat of thunder and cloud Putin asked the crowd to observe a minute's silence as the Kremlin clock chimed under grey skies. Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev, 88, and Hollywood actor Steven Seagal, who has been a vocal supporter of Putin, were at the commemoration along with Russian dignitaries. The event came four days after a Sukhoi SuperJet 100 crashed at Moscow's Sheremetyevo airport while making an emergency landing after it was 'hit by lightning', in which 41 people died. Russian Ground Forces Commander-in-Chief, Colonel General Oleg Salyukov, was seen during the Victory Day military parade saluting the troops in Putin's new 120,000 convertible limousine. Weighing six tons and powered by a roaring 4.4 lite V-8 engine, this Aurus cabriolet is an upgrade to the previous model used by the Kremlin over the past year. This new model reportedly has a 'parade mode' which, when travelling at speeds lower than 12mph, provides a smoother ride. TR-82A armoured personnel carriers during a Victory Day military parade taking part in the show of military prowess Colonel General Oleg Salyukov salutes during the parade in Putin's new 120,000 4.4 lite V-8 convertible limousine Russian anti-aircraft system S-400 moves in formation during the Victory Day parade in Red square in Moscow today Russian military servicemen march in formation during the Victory Day parade in Red Square in Moscow on Thursday Moscow also recently said it would build up its military presence in the Arctic, seeking to assert its influence in the strategic region. World leaders have attended in the past, but were conspicuous by their absence on Thursday, something the Kremlin played down. Nursultan Nazarbayev, who resigned as Kazakh president in March after three decades in power, was the only notable foreign guest. The Kremlin said it had not invited foreign heads of state but next year's 75th anniversary would be marked with greater pomp as a major milestone. The display of raw military power is also designed to show the world and potential buyers of military hardware how a modernisation program has changed the face of the Russian military and arms industry. However, military experts say various problems mean Russia had yet to produce in large numbers some of its newest hardware, such as the T-14 Armata battle tank, despite their Red Square outings. Putin's new 120,000 Aurus cabriolet convertible Aurus Senat convertible with Russia's Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu on board the limo, which has been described as a rip-off of British-manufactured Rolls Royce, will go on sale to the public later this year Vladimir Putin's convertible 'Beast' was out in full-force during the Victory Day parade through Moscow's Red Square. The armoured Aurus offers ballistic and explosive protection and can be fully submerged in water and has bee described as a Rolls Royce' rip off. Weighing six tons and powered by a roaring 4.4 lite V-8 engine, the cabriolet is an upgrade to the previous model used by the Kremlin over the past year. The body of the Aurus - which gets its name from a blend of aurum, meaning gold, and Russia - has been described as 'unapologetically Rolls Royce'. The high-powered vehicles will go on sale to the public later this year. Russian Ground Forces Commander-in-Chief, Colonel General Oleg Salyukov, was seen during the Victory Day military parade saluting the troops in Putin's new 120,000 convertible limousine. This new model reportedly has a 'parade mode' which, when travelling at speeds lower than 12mph, provides a smoother ride, with Saudi Arabian politician Khalid al-Falih expressing an interest in using one of the 5,000 models projected to be manufactured a year by 2021. The car is around 22 feet long has a 598 horsepower and can go from 0 to 60mph in nine seconds. Russian Ground Forces Commander-in-Chief, Colonel General Oleg Salyukov (left) and Russia's Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu during a Victory Day military parade Advertisement Russian servicewomen march in unison through Red Square during the Victory Day military parade Russian President Vladimir Putin walking past veterans and officials during the Victory Day military parade at Red Square in downtown Moscow A RS-24 Yars mobile intercontinental ballistic missile system rolls down Moscow's Red Square Russian servicemen march in the Victory Day parade. The march-past by 13,000 troops along with tanks and missile carriers went ahead but some 74 combat aircraft were banned from flying over the Kremlin due to fears over the weather Spectators watch a Victory Day military parade and hold aloft a flag with the hammer and sickle emblem from the Soviet-era Russian servicemen march during the Victory Day parade, which marks the anniversary of the victory over Nazi Germany in World War Two, in Red Square Russian anti-aircraft system S-400 moves in formation through Red Square during the Victory Day parade in Moscow Vladimir Putin attends laying flowers at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier after the military parade marking 74 years since the victory in WWII Putin speaking during the Victory Day in Moscow in which he warned 'the lessons of the past war are relevant once again' A World War Two motorbike and sidecar carrying veterans and families in the Victory Day parade in Sevastopol in Crimea A Russian serviceman prepares military vehicles for the Victory Day parade in downtown Saint Petersburg on Thursday Aleksandr Asovsky, a 97 -year-old veteran of World War II, attends a memorial ceremony marking the 74 anniversary of the end of World War II at the Antakalnis memorial in Vilnius, Lithuania A judge has called a female Pit Bull to the stand as a witness in an animal abuse trial against its former owner who is accused of locking the adorable dog in a suitcase and throwing it in the rubbish. According to local media, Judge Sandra Barrera at Penal Court 1 in the city of Santa Cruz, Tenerife, in the Canary Islands, stunned attendees when she called 'the damaged witness, the dog called Milagros'. Prosecutor Francisca Sanchez told the court 'obviously, the witness cannot talk' before a forensic doctor explained to the judge the injuries it had suffered. A judge has called a female Pit Bull to the stand as a witness in an animal abuse trial against its former owner who is accused of locking the adorable dog in a suitcase and throwing it in the rubbish A court spokesperson explained that the decision to call the Pit Bull to the stand is not common in Spain, but was agreed by all parties beforehand as a 'gesture of goodwill' and to make society aware of the problems of animal abuse. The defendant, identified as Sergio M.J., is accused of locking the dog in a suitcase and throwing it into a wheelie bin. He reportedly gave his testimony in a video call from a pre-trial detention centre in Seville where he has been charged with other offences including robbery. He admitted to throwing the dog in the rubbish back in October 2012, but claimed that he did so because he thought the Pit Bull had died. However, residents heard the dog barking from inside the wheelie bin and contacted the emergency services. Adriana Naranjo of the animal rights group Albergue Comarcal Valle Colino, which cared for the dog after being rescued and managed to find it a new home, said that it was unnecessary for it to attend the trial. According to local media, Judge Sandra Barrera at Penal Court 1 in the city of Santa Cruz, capital of Tenerife in the Spanish region of the Canary Islands, stunned attendees when she called 'the damaged witness, the dog called Milagros' She said that the Pit Bull's injuries were recorded seven years ago and the animal has since made a full recovery. However, Naranjo admitted: 'It is positive to make people aware of the problems of animal abuse.' The defendant faces up to a year in prison if found guilty, according to reports. Prosecutor Francisca Sanchez told the court 'obviously, the witness cannot talk' before a forensic doctor explaining to the judge the injuries it suffered and how it currently appears to be doing The Most Extensive and Reliable Source of Information Related to the Mexican Drugs Cartels. You will not find this level of coverage anywhere else, join us! Send information, pictures or videos, you remain 100% anonymous. Envia fotos, videos, notas, enlaces o informacion todo 100% Anonimo. Borderland Beat? We love to have you in our team, send Sol Prendido or HEARST an email! Want to be a contributor or citizen reporter forBorderland Beat?We love to have you in our team, sendoran email! WARNING: Posts may contain strong violent material, discretion is advised. COMMENTS: We do not publish all comments, and we do not publish comments immediately. Italian dictator Benito Mussolini's great-grandson has defended the legacy of the fascist era that ended with defeat in WWII. Caio Giulio Cesare Mussolini who is running for a European Parliament seat with a small, far-right Italian party, tried to nuance his fascist grandfather's legacy in comments to the foreign press in Rome on Wednesday. The fascist era was 'a very complicated, complex period', he said at a press conference in Rome for the Fratelli d'Italia (Brothers of Italy) party. Benito Mussolini's great-grandson Caio Giulio Cesare Mussolini called the brutal fascist era 'a very complicated, complex period' on Wednesdat 'You can't define it in terms of right or wrong, good or bad,' he said. While the anti-Jewish laws of 1938 had been 'a mistake, a shame', the fascist period had left its mark on the country in other ways with, for example, its road network, he added. Many older people he met while campaigning expressed nostalgia for that period, he said. benito Musslini's great-gradson Caio Giulio Cesare Mussolini Anti-fascism, he said, was the last thing keeping together a left that was far from the needs of the people, he added. In Italy it is still a crime to defend fascism, but asked about that law he said that the courts often ruled on the side of freedom of expression. The current ban on the fascist salute should be extended to the raised clenched-fist of the communists, he added. Although Mussolini is only 10th on the party's electoral list, he features prominently on its posters. And there were plenty of journalists on hand to hear what the Italian dictator's great-grandson had to say. The 50-year-old former Italian naval officer was born in Argentina, where his father, Vittorio Mussolini, the second son of the dictator Benito Mussolini, fled in 1945 at the end of World War II. He now works for an arms firm, a subsidiary of the Leonardo group - formerly Finmeccanica. Italian fascist dictato Benito Mussolini (left) with his staunchest ally, German Nazi leader Adolph Hitler He is not the first descendant of the fascist dictator to enter politics. Benito's grand-daughter Alessandra, has been an MEP since 2014, having already served as a senator and a deputy in the Italian parliament. She is now a rival candidate - in another region - on a list led by former prime minister Silvio Berlusconi. Benito Mussolini, the creator of fascism, came to power in Italy in the 1920s, established a one-party dictatorship and was an ally of Hitler's Germany during World War II. He was captured and executed by communist partisans while trying to flee near the end of the war. MPs will desert Westminster on an 11-day break at the end of the month despite the ongoing Brexit crisis, it was revealed today. Commons' Leader Andrea Leadsom confirmed that the Whitsun recess will begin on May 23 - the day of the European Elections - with MPs not due to return until June 4. The announcement came amid an ongoing crisis over the UK's departure from the EU and Theresa May's premiership. It means that MPs will not be in Parliament after the European elections, sparing Theresa May from facing furious Tory backbenchers if her party, as expected, is abandoned by voters. Voting takes place on May 23 but the results are due to start rolling in on the Sunday night, May 26, because they cannot be announced before polls close in all EU nations, some of which are holding elections later than the UK. With a fresh attempt to get a Brexit deal through the Commons slated to take place before May 23 - and almost certain to fail yet again - it would also potentially see Mrs May get breathing space from calls for her to resign as Tory leader immediately. And it was made almost exactly a month after European Council President Donald Tusk urged MPs not to 'waste this time' as Theresa May was granted a flexible six month extension to Brexit. The Commons has risen early on several occasions since the Easter break partly due to a lack of business. Speaking in the Commons, Mrs Leadsom announced next week's schedule, before adding: 'Subject to the progress of business, the House will rise for the Whitsun recess at the close of business on Thursday May 23 and return on Tuesday June 4.' She added that Britain's failure to leave the EU almost three years after the referendum was 'utterly unacceptable'. Andrea Leadsom told the Commons: 'Subject to the progress of business, the House will rise for the Whitsun recess at the close of business on Thursday May 23 and return on Tuesday June 4' Mrs Leadsom made no mention of key Brexit legislation as she announced the business for next week, adding that the Government hoped cross-party agreement could be achieved to implement the Withdrawal Agreement. Mrs Leadsom added it was 'absolutely essential' that Brexit was delivered although failed to say if the Withdrawal Agreement would come back to Parliament for a fourth time next week after being pressed by Labour. MPs are scheduled to consider the Non-Domestic Rating (Preparation for Digital Services) Bill on Monday, a debate on prisons and probation plus a debate on health on Tuesday, a debate on serious violence on Wednesday, and debates on the definition of Islamophobia and the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia on Thursday. Shadow Commons leader Valerie Vaz said there had been speculation in the media that Prime Minister Theresa May would introduce the Withdrawal Agreement Bill next Thursday, asking Mrs Leadsom to clarify as 'we need that certainty'. But the minister avoided answering, saying it was 'subject to the talks with the opposition benches', adding: 'So I'm sure she'll be able to get an update from her own side. 'It is the Government's intention to seek cross-party agreement to get a Bill that the whole House supports, it is absolutely essential that we leave the European Union, and three years on it's utterly unacceptable that we haven't done so yet.' SNP Commons leader Pete Wishart said MPs deserved an answer to when they would get to vote again on the EU Withdrawal Agreement. He added: 'When are they going to bring it back and what form will it be? This purgatory just cannot go on any longer. 'Nothing is being done, important Bills need to be brought back to this House and we need to get back to work. 'We rose early on two days this week and this place is quickly becoming an international laughing stock.' Asked whether it was right for MPs to take a break when Brexit legislation still needs to be pushed through Parliament, a Downing Street spokeswoman told reporters: 'Recesses are obviously agreed by the House. 'This particular recess occurs every year. 'We have discussions with the opposition which are continuing and, subject to progress, we hope we are able to bring forward the Withdrawal Agreement Bill before recess.' Some Tories believe a heavy defeat in the Commons for the Withdrawal Agreement Bill would signal that the Prime Minister has no chance of getting Brexit done at all and should hand over to someone else. Theresa May is believed to be planning a fresh attempt to get Britain of the EU before Euro elections in a fortnight amid plots to topple her as Tory leader. A senior backbencher suggested that he expected ministers to bring forward the Withdrawal Agreement Bill - required to ratify her deal in law - in the 'near future'. But some Tories have warned that the bold decision could see the Prime Minister fall into a Brexiteer trap to topple her quickly - while she plans to stay on until the autumn - according to ITV News. They believe a heavy defeat in the Commons for the bill would signal that the Prime Minister has no chance of getting Brexit done at all and should hand over to someone else. After a local election humiliation last week some Conservative officials believe the party could win less than 10 per cent of the vote to finish below Nigel Farage's Brexit party, Labour, the Liberal Democrats and even Change UK, the Financial Times reported. The chairman of the Conservative backbench 1922 Committee Sir Graham Brady, who met the Prime Minister privately on Tuesday, suggested she could make a final effort to get her Brexit deal through Parliament before the European elections, when the party is expected to suffer even heavier losses. Some Conservative officials believe the party could win less than 10 per cent of the vote in the European election, which would lead to even more calls for Mrs May to go Sir Graham Brady, who met the Prime Minister privately on Tuesday, suggested she could make a final effort to get her Brexit deal through Parliament before the European elections Nigel Farage meanwhile insisted that his newly formed Brexit Party was by no means a short-term political rebuttal to the established parties Mrs May has rebuffed demands to set out a timetable for her departure from No 10 amid growing pressure from Tory MPs to make way for a new leader. Labour has strongly suggested that the talks are nowhere near a breakthrough. Jeremy Corbyn said he had received 'no big offer' today. And in a swipe at Tory infighting he added: 'Its difficult negotiating with a disintegrating government with Cabinet ministers jockeying for the succession, rather than working for an agreement.' Sir Graham Brady made clear she had not offered any further clarity about her future and that said she would meet the committee's 18-strong executive next week amid grass roots fury over the party's worst local elections performance in 24 years. Sir Graham suggested she could make a final effort to get her Brexit deal through Parliament before the European elections, when the party is expected to suffer even heavier losses. With her effective deputy David Lidington suggesting he hoped a deal could be concluded by July - meaning the UK would leave on August 1 - there is speculation she may seek to hang on until the annual party conference in the autumn. Justice Secretary David Gauke today urged Tory MPs to back Theresa May. He admitted the elections would be 'difficult for the party and an opportunity to 'give the established parties a kick' But he told BBC Radio 4's Today programme: 'I think the issue here is that her going isn't going to change the parliamentary arithmetic.' Mr Gauke said, when the Conservatives choose their next leader, the focus should be on 'what is the role of the UK in a post-Brexit world and who is the best candidate to defeat Jeremy Corbyn'. He added: 'I think it would be a mistake to have a change of leadership at this point.' However Nigel Evans, the executive secretary of the 1922 Committee, warned she would need to give MPs some greater certainty about her future before the election. 'August 1 is the next new date,' he told the BBC. 'It could be kicked down the road even further. That's not what we want. We want some clarity from the Prime Minister.' McVey enters the fray! Former minister and hardline Brexiteer enters race to replace Theresa May as Remainer minister David Gauke signals he will run to stop 'populist' Boris Johnson from getting into Number 10 Hardline Brexiteer and former Cabinet minister Esther McVey revealed she would run to replace Theresa May as the Tory leadership battle burst into life today. The ex-Work and Pensions Secretary, who quit the Government in protest at the Prime Minister's Brexit handling in November, confirmed she would make a bid for the top in a radio interview this morning. It came after Cabinet minister David Gauke took a thinly-veiled swipe at rival leadership candidate Boris Johnson, warning the Tories 'to avoid the temptation' of becoming right-wing populists. As ministers from across the Brexit spectrum vie to replace Theresa May when she finally quits as Tory leader, the Justice Secretary said that such a change would leave Britain poorer and more divided and put the Union at risk. In an interview with TalkRadio Ms McVey, 51, said: 'I've always said quite clearly if I got enough support from colleagues then yes I would, and now people have come forward and I have got that support. 'So I will be going forward.' She said the Conservative Party needed a leader who 'believes in Brexit', and had 'belief in the opportunities' it could bring. Ms McVey said that Mrs May's departure should be handled in a 'dignified and graceful' way. 'We all know Theresa May is dutiful,' she said. 'She has worked for public service for many years.' The former television journalist, who is engaged to fellow Tory backbench Brexiteer Philip Davies, 47, is seen as an outsider in the leadership race, with odds currently 66/1. McVey, who previously had a romance with ex-minister Ed Vaizey, went public on her relationship with Mr Davies in March, in an interview that prompted speculation she was clearing a path for a leadership bid. He has two children from a previous marriage while Ms McVey has none. Hardline Brexiteer and former Cabinet minister Esther McVey revealed she would run to replace Theresa May as the Tory leadership battle burst into life today Esther McVey at the Pink Ribbon Ball in 2002 while working as a TV presenter on shows like GMTV, How Do they Do That? .Today she announced she would run to be Tory leader after Theresa May The former television journalist, who is engaged to fellow Tory backbench Brexiteer Philip Davies, 47, is seen as an outsider in the leadership race, with odds currently 66/1 Although there is no leadership contest under way, a lack of confidence in Theresa May among Conservative MPs has prompted Rory Stewart, Andrea Leadsom and Ms McVey to declare their candidacies. A series of high-profile media appearances from Jeremy Hunt, Michael Gove and Dominic Raab in the last week have also buoyed speculation that they will run. Boris Johnson, Sajid Javid, Steve Baker and Amber Rudd have also been tipped as potential leaders. Under current Conservative Party rules, the Prime Minister is free from an internal challenge to her leadership until December 2019, but could step down before then. Remainer minister Mr Gauke meanwhile made a pitch to be the centre-ground candidate in any upcoming leadership fight. In an interview with the BBC this morning said that politicians must 'avoid giving glib answers' to complex questions, in a concerted pitch for the middle ground. He added: 'We have to avoid the temptation to be a populist party. 'That would narrow our support, narrow our base and result in policies that I don't think would be good for the United Kingdom.' Although he is not often mentioned in lists of potential successors to Mrs May, Mr Gauke's comments will be seen as an intervention in the leadership contest to come after the PM steps down, as she has said she will once the first phase of Brexit is complete. One of the Cabinet's most prominent opponents of a no-deal Brexit, his comments are likely to be interpreted as a caution to the party not to choose a leader from among advocates of the hardest forms of EU withdrawal, like Boris Johnson or Dominic Raab. Mr Johnson, the bookies' favourite to succeed the Prime Minister, is the most popular Tory MP with the party's rank-and-file and most recognisable to the general public. But he is less popular with Tory MPs, with Remainers and moderates gearing up to provide a 'stop Boris' to run against him. Under Tory rules MPs whittle leadership candidates down to a final two before a vote of the membership, so they could block the former foreign secretary from the head-to-head. In the interview with TalkRadio Ms McVey, 51, seen as an outsider in the leadership race, said: 'I've always said quite clearly if I got enough support from colleagues then yes I would, and now people have come forward and I have got that support.' Appealing to the party to stand by the banner of 'One Nation Conservatism', Mr Gauke used a speech to the Onward thinktank this morning to call for for a politics which is civil, open-minded and forward-looking. When the Conservatives choose their next leader, the focus should be on 'what is the role of the UK in a post-Brexit world and who is the best candidate to defeat Jeremy Corbyn', he added. In his speech, Mr Gauke said the arguments of some Brexiteers has been 'characterised by wishful thinking' which has 'not survived the collision with reality'. Voters' anger over the failure to deliver Brexit on time has been fuelled by some Leave supporters' over-simplification of the difficulties involved, he said. And he argued that the Government must put the economy at the heart of its Brexit strategy, discouraging a 'culture war' over relations with Europe and ensuring that the UK maintains 'strong trading relationships with our biggest trading partner'. In a challenge to populists' claim to be the heirs of the most successful Tory leader of modern times, he insisted that Margaret Thatcher led her party and her country by confronting populism, not embracing it. Mr Gauke warned that the growth of populism has driven a coarsening of political debate, with language becoming more extreme and civility dismissed as weakness. But he said that on the key political arguments, populists are 'just plain wrong'. Hardeep Singh, 35, originally from India, has been jailed after sexually assaulting a woman on a plane from Mumbai to Manchester An Indian tourist who sexually assaulted a woman on a plane while all the other passengers were asleep has been jailed for a year. Hardeep Singh, 35, was due to visit the UK on a six-month tourist visa from his native Hoshiarpur. He got on a plane from Mumbai to Manchester in February this year and was sat next to a woman in her twenties. Singh tried to engage her in conversation but the female passenger began to feel uncomfortable because his English wasn't very good. When the lights went down most of the cabin fell asleep, including the victim, who was horrified to wake up to him sexually assaulting her. He was today jailed for a year at Minshull Street Crown Court and will be deported back to India when he finishes his sentence. The court heard how he had asked whether the woman sat on the other side of his victim was her mother and - while she was watching a film removed her headphones and tried to talk to her again. When she got up to use the toilet, Singh refused to move aside so she could get to the aisle comfortably, forcing her to squeeze past him, the hearing was told. After the lights on the aircraft were turned down, due to the time of the flight, the woman and the other passengers around her went to sleep under their blankets. When she woke up, she tried to push him away but he persisted, forcing his hands underneath her clothing and underwear and trying to kiss her. Everyone else around her on the aircraft was asleep, so she was unable to call for help. Officers were waiting for Singh when he got off the plane at Manchester Airport (pictured) She repeatedly told him to stop and tried to remove his hands and move away, but Singh hooked her legs off the ground so she couldn't get up. She said she felt isolated and vulnerable as everyone else was asleep and she couldn't see any cabin crew around to help. The assault lasted for around 15 minutes before the she was able to struggle free and move to the back of the plane where she reported Singh to a member of cabin crew. He was moved away from the woman for the remainder of the flight and cabin crew contacted police. Officers were waiting for Singh when he got off the plane at Manchester Airport. Singh was arrested on suspicion of sexual assault and initially denied the offences. Detective Constable Catherine Evans of GMP's Airport Team, said: 'From the outset of the flight, Singh's behaviour was despicable. 'After checking the woman was unaccompanied, he began to invade her personal space, pestering her and making unwanted physical contact, despite the passenger making it clear she did not want to engage him in conversation. 'Waiting until the woman and surrounding passengers were asleep, Singh subjected the woman to a prolonged sexual assault, forcibly restraining her when she tried to move away. 'Numbed with fear, it was only after she summoned the strength to overpower him that she was able to run away and raise the alarm. 'Thanks to the swift actions of our officers at Manchester Airport, justice was waiting for Singh as soon as he landed. 'We're pleased with today's sentence and hope the woman can move forward knowing that he's behind bars. 'We hope the courage of this woman and this positive court result encourages other victims to come forward and report incidents of sexual assault to police.' A 12-year-old girl allegedly took her family car on a drunken joy ride with three other children inside before leading police on a highway pursuit. Police said officers were searching for a wanted person in Alamogordo, New Mexico on Wednesday when they spotted a car leaving a closed business area. The car sped off when an officer tried to identify the owner, the Alamogordo Daily News reports. Authorities say an intoxicated 12-year-old girl went on a joy ride in the family car with three other children inside, leading police on a chase in Alamogordo, New Mexico Authorities said the girl then drove onto U.S. Highway 70 where she passed a New Mexico State Police vehicle. She allegedly led police on a pursuit and drove through a dirt lot where the car nearly struck an Otero County deputy, The chase only ended when the car spun out of control and hit a speed limit sign. No one was injured in the incident. Authorities said the girl led police on a chase along this section of U.S. Highway 70 before crashing into a speed limit sign Police said all four children told authorities that they had been drinking. The young driver was referred to juvenile services on charges of reckless driving and DWI. Alamogordo Police Chief Brian Peete said they are still investigating the incident. Police are working with juvenile services, the district attorney and the local public school district as part of the investigation. A former Cuban pilot, who has served the longest-known US jail sentence for a marijuana conviction, has finally been released and reunited with his family after nearly four decades behind bars. Antonio Bascaro, 84, was released on May 1 after serving 39 years in prison for participating in a criminal organization that smuggled more than 600,000 pounds of Colombian marijuana into the United States. After his release on last week, Bascaro enjoyed his first meal outside of jail with a side of Cuban coffee and most importantly, his family. Before he was sentenced Bascaro refused to help US authorities with other investigations in exchange for a sentence reduction. 'I refused to co-operate because my moral values and ethics, as well as my military training, kept me from using someone else or from testifying against another person to solve my problems,' he told the BBC. 'No one forced me to join the conspiracy. That is why I did not co-operate or try to use anyone else to save my neck.' Former Cuban pilot, Antonio Bascaro (sitting center), 84, who has served the longest-known US jail sentence for a marijuana conviction, has finally been released and reunited with his family (pictured) after nearly four decades behind bars Bascaro (left in 1964) was recruited by the CIA in 1961 to train in Guatemala to overthrow Fidel Castro. The former naval pilot participated in the Bay of Pigs invasion and relocated to Nicaragua for the attack, but the invasion failed. Bascaro (right) during his release on May 1 Bascaro (left, with Jose Acosta after their convictions) became involved in the smuggling operation in 1977. Bascaro was convicted of conspiracy to import and distribute marijuana in 1980 and sentenced to 60 years in prison Bascaro was recruited by the CIA in 1961 to train in Guatemala to overthrow Fidel Castro. The former naval pilot participated in the Bay of Pigs invasion and relocated to Nicaragua for the attack, but the invasion failed before Bascaro's plane could leave the ground. More than 100 soldiers were killed and another 1,200 were sent to prison. 'At that moment, I was ready to fly anything that had a motor or wings to help out my comrades abandoned in that secluded beach without escape routes,' he told the BBC. Bascaro became involved in the smuggling operation in 1977. At that time, Florida was a hot spot for drugs into the US. 'That's where I met the boss and singular owner of the conspiracy,' told the news site. 'After a tasty meal and some drinks, he challenged me to join him. 'I accepted the challenge and I enjoyed the feeling of excitement. I had not felt it in years, so I ended up getting involved,' he added. But he was convicted of conspiracy to import and distribute marijuana in 1980 and sentenced to 60 years in prison. At the time of his conviction, Bascaro had no prior criminal record. Bascaro became involved in the smuggling operation in 1977. At that time, Florida was a hot spot for drugs into the US After his release on last week, Bascaro enjoyed his first meal outside of jail with a side of Cuban coffee and most importantly, his family The veteran says he now feels 'many regrets about what I did'. He's pictured with his daughter, Myra (right) The veteran says he now feels 'many regrets about what I did'. According to his daughter, Aicha Bascaro, she was just 12 years old when she 'lost him to the legal system'. 'I hardly remember him outside of that environment. My children barely know him,' she wrote on a Change.org petition, asking President Donald Trump to grant him clemency in 2017. On May 1, Aicha shared an update on the petition announcing that her father is home. 'At 8:30am on May 1st my brother, sister, nephew and I arrived to FCI Miami to pick up our father. 'Since we picked him up we have focused on spending time with him, preparing his space in his new temporary home with family and eating delicious Cuban food and sharing all of the changes in society and technology that happened in the last 40 years, she wrote. Bascaro was supposed to stay at a halfway house until June 8, but he was allowed to go home with his family and remain on house arrest until that date. He said his plans right now 'are to spend time with my family and solidify our union which was broken so many tears ago'. But there is still some uncertainty about his future. While he will be truly free on June 8, because he's not a US citizen and served time for a major felony, he may face the possibility of deportation. His family said he will find out his fate on June 11 when they attend a hearing at the Immigration and Customs Enforcement Office in Miami. Bascaro's daughter Myra told the BBC that while she's grateful for him to be free, she has no idea where he would go if he's sent back to Cuba. Bascaro was supposed to stay at a halfway house until June 8, but he was allowed to go home with his family and remain on house arrest until that date. Pictured is his Bay of Pigs veteran hat Bascaro (pictured) joined the Cuban Naval Academy in 1952, and studied aviation in Pensacola, Florida, in 1954. By 1956 he returned to Cuba and joined the country's air force 'I was the youngest naval lieutenant that ever served in Cuba's navy. I was promoted to that post before turning 24-years-old, in 1958,' he said. Bascaro is pictured fourth from right in 1954 'To Cuba where he could get arrested again for having fought against Fidel Castro? To Guatemala where he met my mother but where he has nothing and nobody... the country that deported him to the United States almost 40 years ago?' she questioned in the interview. According to the BBC, Bascaro joined the Cuban Naval Academy in 1952, and studied aviation in Pensacola, Florida, in 1954. By 1956 he returned to Cuba and joined the country's air force. 'I was the youngest naval lieutenant that ever served in Cuba's navy. I was promoted to that post before turning 24-years-old, in 1958,' he told the news site. During that same year, Bascaro was forced to make an emergency landing with his Marine 50 plane that now rests in the Museum of the Cuban Revolution in Havana. At the time he suffered injuries that kept in the hospital where he was paid a visit by Fidel Castro's brother, Raul. Bascaro told BBC that Raul tried to 'convince me to join his group and I rejected the offer because I would never betray my principles or my military honor'. He was then jailed for three months for refusing Raul's offer. Two American siblings who have been trapped in China for almost a year under the country's notorious 'exit ban' are making a desperate public plea for help. Cynthia, 27, and Victor Liu, 19, traveled to China in June 2018 to pay respects to their ailing grandfather. But when they tried to return home, they were banned from leaving the country in what lawyers believe is a plot to lure their estranged father Liu Changming - one of China's most wanted fugitives - back into the country. Changming is the former executive of a state-owned bank and is wanted for a $1.4billion fraud case. He fled the country in 2007. 'We've done nothing wrong and we need to go home. We wake up every morning terrified,' Cynthia, who works for a New York consulting firm, said in a candid video this week to CBS. American siblings Cynthia, 27, and Victor Liu, 19, have been trapped in China for over a year due to the country's exit ban. Their estranged father is on China's Most Wanted list for a $1.4billion fraud case We've done nothing wrong and we need to go home. We wake up every morning terrified,' Cynthia, 27, said in a desperate video message recorded this week To view this video please enable JavaScript, and consider upgrading to a web browser that supports HTML5 video CBS Privacy Policy A lawyer for the Liu siblings say that that the Chinese government is trying to coax the father back to China by holding them as 'human bait' - but they maintain they have no way of contacting him as he abandoned the family years ago. Lawyers believe China is holding them to lure their estranged father Liu Changming back into the country. He is the former executive of a state-owned bank and fled the country in 2007, wanted for a $1.4billion fraud case China's Exit and Entry Administration Law, which was adopted in 2012, regulates the entry and exit of non-Chinese nationals in and out of the country. Under the law foreigners are not allowed to leave China if they are involved in unsettled civil cases or upon the decision of the court. It allows them to travel within the country, but doesn't let them out. The U.S. government warned citizens about the exit bans saying it can keep citizens stuck in China 'for days or years'. The U.S. has tried to intervene in the Liu siblings case, but to no avail. Trump's National Security Council Spokesman revealed that Chinese authorities failed to provide a legitimate explanation for refusing the free departure of Cynthia and Victor. They traveled to China in June 2018 to pay respects to their dying grandfather and were shocked when officials refused to let them return to the U.S. Their mother, who is also an American citizen was imprisoned National Security Adviser John Bolton also called China last year to plead for the Lius release - but it went unheeded. 'We feel trapped. We live with constant distress because this is not our home and we're not here by choice,' Cynthia Liu said 'We feel trapped. We live with constant distress because this is not our home and we're not here by choice,' she added. 'This man abandoned my family many years ago. We are not in touch with him nor do we have any contact with him,' she explained. He cut ties with his family in 2012. 'I have told Victor again and again that no matter how dark our live can be, we need to hold on to hope,' she said. Chinese authorities also arrested the Liu siblings' mother Sandra Han, who is an American citizen, and placed in her a prison known as a 'black jail'. They've been unable to contact her. Before leaving America to visit their grandfather, Victor was in his sophomore year at Georgetown University and Cynthia was working at the consulting firm McKinsey & Company in New York. 'Victor barely understands the language. I mean it's bewildering, it's difficult, it's stressful,' the Liu siblings' lawyer David Pressman said 'Each time when they present themselves at the border, they are taken to a room, and then they are ultimately told that they are not allowed to leave,' their lawyer David Pressman said to CBS. China's exit ban China's Exit and Entry Administration Law was adopted in 2012 It regulates the entry and exit of non-Chinese nationals in and out of country Under Article 28, foreigners are not allowed to exit China if they are involved in unsettled civil cases or upon the decision of the people's courts Canada and U.S. have travel advisories in place to warn citizens of the ban that can detain people for years U.S. warned China uses ban 'coercively' in investigations and to lure individuals back to China from abroad Advertisement 'Victor barely understands the language. I mean it's bewildering, it's difficult, it's stressful,' he added. As trade talks between the U.S. and China are set to take place this week, the Lius hope their plight will be raised before top China officials. While the Lius are not allowed to leave the country, they are not on house arrest and can move within the country, but they are being monitored by Chinese security forces, as per their lawyer. China's exit ban has been a point of contention with the U.S. The U.S. warned travelers of the ban starting in 2018. That advisory says China uses the exit ban coercively to 'compel U.S. citizens to participate in Chinese government investigations, to lure individuals back to China from abroad and to aid Chinese authorities in resolving civil disputes in favor of Chinese parties'. A teacher in California is being forced to pay for her substitute while on extended leave battling breast cancer. Though California law has required teachers to pay their substitutes since 1976, the practice is under new scrutiny due to the case highlighted this week by the San Francisco Chronicle. The second-grade teacher at San Francisco's Glen Park Elementary, who asked not to be named, is on leave for the rest of the year as she receives treatment for breast cancer. After the 10 annual sick days that each teacher is allotted, the district allows 100 days of extended leave, during which teachers are paid their regular salary minus the cost of a sub, which ranges from $174.66 to $240.26 per day. The second-grade teacher at San Francisco's Glen Park Elementary (above), who asked not to be named, is on leave for the rest of the year as she receives treatment for breast cancer After the 100 days, teachers can take up to 85 sick days from the catastrophic leave bank, which other teachers donate their own sick days to, without losing money from their paycheck. District officials say that they are not to blame, and point the finger at the state law. 'This is not unique to San Francisco,' said school district spokeswoman Laura Dudnick. 'This is not a district-only rule.' District officials point the finger at state law. California's education code is seen above But a spokeswoman for the state department of education directed questions back to the local district and union. Susan Solomon, president of the teachers' union, told the Chronicle that the healthcare system was to blame, saying that 'single-payer health care is the answer.' Parents at Glen Park were shocked to learn of the situation with the teacher battling cancer. 'She's wonderful, she's a beautiful lovely great teacher. She's one of the best teachers. It's terrible,' parent Abby Hipps told KGO-TV. Concerned parents have started a GoFundMe campaign to help the teacher raise funds for medical treatments and expenses. The page has exceeded its $10,000 goal to raise $13,700 for the teacher. According to the page, the teacher has already undergone one surgery, and will undergo a second before beginning a standard treatment regimen. A Chicago man who has been on the run for seven years after allegedly killing his wife after their wedding has been added to the FBI's Ten Most Wanted Fugitives List. Police say Arnoldo Jimenez, 37, is accused of stabbing his wife Estrella Carrera, 26, more than 18 times in his Maserati after they got into a fight as they were travelling home from their wedding reception in the early hours of May 12, 2012. They were married at Chicago City Hall on May 11 and celebrated afterwards with family and friends. Following the stabbing, he allegedly then dragged her body into the bathtub of her suburban Chicago apartment. Police say Arnoldo Jimenez, 37, (left), stabbed Estrella Carrera, 26, (right), 18 times hours after they celebrated their wedding and then dumped her body in a bathtub at her apartment Carrera was found dead the following day wearing the silver sequined cocktail dress she had on during her wedding reception. Afterwards, police say his brother drove him to Mexico then returned with the car to Illinois. He was arrested for a separate, drug case and police discovered the vehicle in his garage during that raid but they have never caught the groom. The FBI believes Jimenez may have fled to Durango, Mexico, specifically around Santiago Papasquiaro, immediately after Carrera's death. They claimed that he is also a regular visitor to the border city of Reynosa. Authorities are asking for the public's help and are offering up to a $100,000 reward for information leading to Jimenez's arrest. In a statement, they said that Jimenez was added to the list of its Ten Most Wanted Fugitives because of 'his violent nature, his alleged involvement in his wifes killing, and his efforts to evade capture.' It is not clear exactly what prompted this week after seven years. 'Because of this horrific crime, a family has forever lost their mother, daughter, and sister,' said Special Agent in Charge Jeffrey Sallet of the Chicago office. Jimenez was added to the list of the FBI's Ten Most Wanted Fugitives because of 'his violent nature, his alleged involvement in his wifes killing, and his efforts to evade capture Authorities said Jimenez and Carrera had a volatile relationship. An undated FBI photo shows Jimenez shortly before he fled to Mexico after her murder 'We are now asking for the public's assistance to ensure that Jimenez is swiftly brought to justice.' 'I am looking at you now Arnoldo Jimenez. With a $100,000 reward on your head, and with the FBI's 10 Most Wanted List you will have very few friends,' Sallet said at a news conference on Wednesday. The FBI said that Jimenez has a criminal past and a history of violence. Sallet said that multiple law enforcement agencies put considerable time into investigating the case and attempting to locating him. Carrera's sister Jazmin attended the conference and spoke in footage obtained by local news outlet ABC7. A surveillance image shows Estrella Carrera on May 2012, wearing the silver sequined dress that she was later found in after being stabbed and left in the bathtub of her Burbank home Estrella Carrera has a son, 9, now nine, with Jimenez and a daughter, 16, from a previous relationship. Family will mark the seven year anniversary of her death on Sunday She said that Carrera will be seven years' dead on Mother's Day, and her son, now nine, and her daughter, 16, miss their mother terribly. The couple were together for three years before her murder. Carrera's older daughter was from a previous relationship. Jazmin Carrera claimed tearfully: 'She was a loving daughter, sister, friend and above all a great mother. Her children need justice for their mommy. 'They shouldn't be spending Mother's Day at a mass dedicated to her and sending flowers to the cemetery.' She welcomed the news that Jimenez being included on FBI's most wanted list, adding: 'We know nothing will bring Estrella back, but at least we could have some kind of peace knowing Arnoldo is paying for his crime.' The family had asked law enforcement to perform a wellness check on her at the Burbank apartment where she lives, (pictured). They then discovered her lifeless body in the bathtub Jimenez allegedly stabbed Carrera 18 times in his 2006 Maserati, (pictured). The vehicle was discovered in a garage belonging to his brother, Humberto, after he was arrested on drug charges in 2012 Carreras family became alarmed when she did not arrive to pick up her children as planned. The family asked law enforcement to perform a wellness check, as they were known to have a volatile relationship, and they then discovered her body. Jazmin previously said that the woman's family received a haunting phone call from a relative of her new husband on May 13, 2012. Jimenez's sister told them he had called her and tearfully said he had left his bride bleeding after a 'bad fight.' Estrella Carrera's sister Jazmin, (left), said they hope the renewed FBI appeal will bring Jimenez to justice. Chicago special agent Jeffrey Sallet, (right), said a $100,000 reward is being offered for information leading to Jimenezs capture Carrera told nearly no one in advance about her plans to marry, inviting a few friends out that Friday without saying what she was celebrating, her relatives said. Investigators tracked Jimenez's cellphone from Chicago to Tennessee to Arkansas and finally to Texas, according to an FBI affidavit. The phone was last used May 13, 2012, in Hidalgo, Texas, near the Mexican border. The affidavit said Jimenez was born in Texas and owned property in Pharr, Texas. Jimenez faces first-degree murder charges in Cook County and federal charges of unlawful flight to avoid prosecution. Jimenez is the 522nd fugitive named to the FBI list since its inception in 1950. A 30ft swastika was sprayed on the business headquarters of a Jewish Brexit Party candidate. Lance Forman, who is the son of a Holocaust survivor, returned from a trip to the United States on Wednesday morning to find the east London premises vandalised with Nazi iconography. Police are investigating the incident, scouring CCTV around the H Forman & Son factory in Hackney Wick to track down those responsible. Mr Forman, who last month announced he would stand in the European Parliament elections as a candidate for Nigel Farage's new party, tweeted: 'Just returned from a business trip in the US to a call from my factory, that someone had done this!! Police are investigating the incident, scouring CCTV around the H Forman & Son factory in Hackney Wick to track down those responsible Brexit Party candidate Lance Forman branded the graffiti 'a totally sick act' (pictured: Mr Forman speaks during a launch event for the European elections in London on April 23, 2019) 'A totally sick act. My father is a Holocaust survivor who fled the Nazis and came to the U.K. after the war. 'My great grandad and founder of Formans fled Antisemitic pogroms too.' The business, H Forman & Son, is Britain's oldest salmon curer - founded by Mr Forman's great-grandfather who settled in east London after fleeing Russian pogroms in the late 1800s. Mr Forman continued: 'If this is to do with me standing for @brexitparty_uk people live in a topsy-turvy world. 'London Brexit Party candidates are Jewish, Muslim, Christian, Atheist, Hindi, Baha'i -no Party is as diverse. 'The one thing we all passionately have in common is our belief in democracy.' Mr Forman told the Jewish Chronicle: 'My dad fled the Nazis in Poland and is a Holocaust survivor who spent the war years as a child in a Siberian prison camp. 'He has worked with HET (the Holocaust Educational Trust) to teach children about the horrors of antisemitism. So the fact that we have been targeted in this antisemitic way is quite horrific and sick. Mr Forman said: 'London Brexit Party candidates are Jewish, Muslim, Christian, Atheist, Hindi, Baha'i - no Party is as diverse' 'The police have images of the culprits on CCTV and I sincerely hope they are tracked down. ' A Met Police spokesperson said: 'Police are investigating an incident of criminal damage to a building in Tower Hamlets. 'A swastika emblem was sprayed on a building at Stour Road, London, E3 at around 2330hrs on Tuesday, 7 May. 'Officers from Tower Hamlets investigate.' Meanwhile the number of anti-Semitic hate incidents in the UK rose by 16 per cent in 2018, according to figures from a leading Jewish charity. The Community Security Trust said that it recorded 1,652 anti-Semitic incidents last year, the highest total since data collection began in 1984. The charity said the figures, first released in February this year, reflected deepening divides in our country and our politics. Home Secretary Sajid Javid said the Government was doing all it could to rid society of these poisonous views. He added that anti-Semitism was utterly despicable and had no place in society. The vile graffiti comes at a time when MPs are being subjected to political abuse while campaigning. Police are also investigating an allegedly malicious remark about rape made against Jess Phillips, the Labour MP, by Ukip candidate Carl Benjamin. Nick Hirsch died after contracting hepatitis C A mother who fought to stop her son being given contaminated blood products found was labelled 'neurotic' by doctors, it has been revealed. Della Ryness-Hirsch told the Infected Blood Inquiry that her son Nick had been diagnosed with severe haemophilia when he was a baby and was regularly given blood products for his condition. But she told the inquiry on Thursday that her friend in the United States had rung her in about 1978, telling her to check if her young son was receiving blood from America. The 75-year-old from north London said she had asked doctors if he was receiving blood products from America, which she had heard was being sold by prisoners and people on 'Skid Row', but was told he had not been given any. But Mrs Ryness-Hirsch said that a couple of years later, when Nick was aged four, she was told he had to be moved to the treatment and she went 'absolutely crazy'. 'I had a huge shouting match,' she added. 'I kicked up bloody murder.' Mrs Ryness-Hirsch said that after getting hold of a copy of her son's medical records she discovered someone had written 'neurotic mother' across the notes. She added: 'On the day when I had kicked up such a fuss at Great Ormond Street about not allowing them to give him American treatment, right across that note, in tramlines, was 'neurotic mother' and that about summed up the way we were considered by the medical profession.' A public inquiry is currently considering the treatment of thousands of people in the 1970s and 1980s who were given blood products infected with hepatitis viruses and HIV (file picture) When asked if she had been assured that if her son was moved onto the Factor products they would be 'safe and from the UK', Mrs Ryness-Hirsch said: 'Absolutely, that was what I was told and was promised.' `Eventually we had no choice and had to agree to Nick receiving Elstree only Factor VIII.' Mrs Ryness-Hirsch said that in 1985, a senior medic had told her and her husband that every other child at the Great Ormond Street Hospital haemophilia unit had tested positive for HIV except her son. She said: 'They told Dan and I that all the children in the unit had been tested for the virus and Nick was the only one that did not have the virus, Aids, the HIV virus.' The inquiry heard Nick was tested and diagnosed with hepatitis C in 1990, and Mrs Ryness-Hirsch said he was probably infected around 1980 and died aged 35 in March 2012, 10 months after the birth of his daughter. Mrs Ryness-Hirsch was giving evidence during the second week of the Infected Blood Inquiry at Fleetbank House in central London. The contaminated blood scandal has been labelled the worst treatment disaster in the history of the NHS. Thousands of patients were infected with HIV and hepatitis C via contaminated blood products in the 1970s and 1980s. Two previous inquiries have been branded a whitewash by campaigners. The inquiry is chaired by former High Court judge Sir Brian Langstaff who has promised to put people at the heart of the probe. Mrs Ryness-Hirsch told the inquiry her son was a musician who had written his first song with his twin brother when they were eight. She added: 'He was funny, irreverent, talented, loving, maddening and wonderful son, brother, partner and father too, if only for 10 months. 'We miss the hell out of him.' After the inquiry hears from victims in central London, there will be similar testimonies taking place over the coming months in Belfast, Leeds, Edinburgh and Cardiff. A Pennsylvania apartment complex is taking an unusual extra step to ensure residents pick up after their dogs - by swabbing the pets' DNA. The Governor Sproul Apartments in Marple Township, located in Delaware County, is testing dogs' DNA so they can monitor whose animals' feces is left behind. The complex has tried everything to try and get pet owners to pick up the poop, including free bags and various signs, but complain that their 'party pooper tenants' haven't complied. Scroll down for video The Governor Sproul Apartments in Marple Township is swabbing dogs for their DNA so they can monitor whose animals poop is left behind The complex offers free bags for pet owners to curb their dogs and also have various signs posted, but complain that their 'party pooper tenants' haven't complied DNA will be collected and entered into a database - called Poo Prints - and samples found on the premises will be sent to the company to monitor, 3CBS Philly reports. If DNA is found to match the sample, then the dog's owner will be hit with a $250 fine. 'I know people don't pick up after their dogs, but DNA testing is kind of ridiculous,' said Sandy Cleveland, a tenant at the Marple Township complex. Property manager, Mimi Hartman, shared that the DNA concept was discovered at a trade show Cathy Koblarz, another resident, added: 'Maybe it will prevent so much crap around the community.' Property manager, Mimi Hartman, shared that the DNA concept was discovered at a trade show. 'We are seeing a decrease in the piles out on the property,' Hartman asserted. All tenants are forced to have their dogs swabbed, with a new addendum added to their leases. Close to 75 percent of residents have complied. 'I think people should be held accountable for their animals the same way they should be held accountable for their children,' declared tenant Dena Riddick. An Argentine lawmaker was wounded and an aide was killed in a shooting close to the National Congress in downtown Buenos Aires on Thursday morning. CCTV camera showed the moment two unidentified attackers allegedly fired at Congressman Hector Olivares and his adviser, Miguel Yadon, 58, who was declared dead at the scene. Both men quickly dropped to the sidewalk pavement in an attack the security minister described as a 'mafia-style' attack. According to Argentine news outlet TN, at least 13 shots were fired shortly before 7am local time. An official said Yadon was shot five times and that Olivares was hit three times. Surveillance footage shows a the muzzle flash from a gun coming from a gray Volkswagen Vento that was parked behind a bus. WARNING GRAPHIC CONTENT Congressman Hector Olivares (pictured) was wounded in Buenos Aires, Argentina, in a shooting that killed his aide, Miguel Yadon Miguel Yadon died at the scene of a Thursday morning shooting near the National Congress building in Argentina after he was shot by two men CCTV camera shows Miguel Yadon and Hector Olivares walking in Buenos Aires on Thursday morning before they were allegedly shot by two men in a Volkswagen Vento (pictured behind the white bus) One of the men is seen struggling to walk to the edge of the sidewalk, before one of the shooters, who police believe to be Juan Jesus Fernandez, 42, steps out of the car. As Fernandez stood there looking around, the wounded man manages to get to his feet and appeared to signal for help before a man on a bike stopped to offer him assistance. Shockingly, the fugitive suspects remained at the crime scene for 90 seconds. Juan Jesus Fernandez is suspected by the police in Argentina of being one of the two alleged shooters that wounded a Congressman and shot dead an aide on Thursday morning Rafael Cano Carmona was arrested Thursday, just two blocks away from the shooting near the National Congress building in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Authorities said Cano Carmona was one of the men that drove the vehicle to the spot of the attack The shooter's accomplice then stepped out from car and crossed the street, disappearing from view. A separate CCTV video reportedly shows Fernandez walking up the ramp of a nearby parking garage where his car was located and seized by the police. Rafael Cano Carmona, 51, was arrested Thursday afternoon, just two blocks away from the shooting. Authorities said Cano Carmona, Fernandez's brother-in-law, was one of the men that drove the vehicle to the site of the attack. CCTV camera at a garage in Buenos Aires, Argentina, shows the moment Juan Jesus Fernandez was spotted walking up a ramp at parking his car. Cops say he is one of the alleged participants in Thursday's shooting According to news site Infobae, investigators also believe that Fernandez's son could have been involved in the shooting. His name was not revealed. 'We're going through a very sad and tough moment, especially because it confirms the presence of mafias in our country,' Security Minister Patricia Bullrich said at a press conference. 'Yadon was killed from a car that was waiting for him....they shoot the main target, which was Yadon, they achieve murdering him, and having the opportunity to murder Olivares, they decide not to kill him.' Police in Argentina are looking for Juan Jesus Fernandez after he allegedly shot Congressman Hector Olivares and his aide on Thursday morning near the National Congress in Buenos Aires, Argentina Miguel Yadon and Hector Olivares immediately dropped to the sidewalk pavement during Thursday morning's shooting The two alleged shooters both got out of the vehicle, and waited at the scene of the shooting for more than a minute before driving away Olivares, who resides in the western province of La Rioja, was in 'serious condition' after undergoing surgery at a Buenos Aires hospital, officials said. During a news conference at Ramos Mejia Hospital, assistant medical director Dr. Juan Pablo Rossini said the politician suffered a wound that entered the left side of his abdomen and 'injured vital organs such as the liver, colon, pancreas and bile ducts.' Congressman Hector Olivares (right in the red circle) starts to fall moments after he was shot on Thursday in Buenos Aires. His aide, Miguel Yadon (left in the red circle), then dropped to the floor after he was also shot. He was declared dead at the crime scene Police in Buenos Aires, Argentina, shut down the crime scene where a Congressman Crime scene investigators search the area Bullrich said the 'mafia-style' shooting was premeditated, but that the motive, and whether political or personal, was still unknown and is being investigated. Fernandez's home was raided later Thursday but he was still at large. 'We are going to go to great lengths to understand what happened and find the culprits,' President Mauricio Macri said in a brief televised statement on Thursday. Yadon and Olivares were childhood friends. President Trump says a GOP senator's subpoena for testimony from Donald Trump, Jr. came as a surprise to him. He defended his son on Thursday as a 'good person' who attended a 'nothing' meeting with Russians during the campaign. 'I was very surprised. I saw Richard Burr saying there was no collusion two or three weeks ago. He went outside and someone asked him, "No theres no collusion, we found no collusion." But I was very surprised to see my son my sons a very good person, works very hard,' he stated. President Trump says a GOP senator's subpoena for testimony from Donald Trump, Jr. came as a surprise Trump said his son, who runs the Trump Organization with his brother Eric, didn't need the headache of another congressional appearance. 'The last thing he needs is Washington D.C.' he said. 'Hes now testified for 20 hours, or something, a massive amount of time. The Mueller report came out thats the Bible the Mueller report came out and they said he did nothing wrong,' the president said. Donald Trump Jr. is the subject of a subpoena from the Senate Intelligence Committee, a panel led by Republicans, in an unexpected escalation of tensions between Congress and the first family this week. The news website Axios first reported the committee's demand and suggested it's related to the ill-fated Trump Tower Moscow, a 2015-2016 real estate venture helmed by President Donald Trump's former attorney Michael Cohen. A source with knowledge of the situation confirmed to DailyMail.com on Wednesday afternoon that the subpoena was received 'a few weeks ago.' The source wouldn't provide other details. Cohen reported to federal prison on Monday to serve a three-year sentence for fraud and for lying to Congress in November about how long into the 2016 presidential campaign the Moscow project survived. He implicated the president in campaign finance violations, and the Trump children in his shady business dealings. Don Jr. testified about the proposed skyscraper in a closed-door Senate Judiciary Committee session two years ago. A transcript released later shows he claimed to have been only 'peripherally aware of it' and knew 'very little' about its progress. The Republican-led Senate Intelligence Committee has subpoenaed Donald Trump Jr. in connection with its Russia investigation, a probe that has run parallel to Special Counsel Robert Mueller's Senate Intelligence Committee Chairman Sen. Richard Burr, a North Carolina Republican, signed off on the subpoena, injecting a new source of tension into the relationship between Congress and the White House A committee spokesman told Axios that committee leaders have 'reserved the right to recall witnesses for additional testimony as needed, as every witness and witness counsel has been made aware.' Republican chairman Richard Burr and ranking Democrat Mark Warner of Virginia are known as bipartisan operators. They have run their own Russia-related investigation in parallel with Special Counsel Robert Mueller's probe. Burr's move is being viewed in Washington as a contrast to Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell's call for Congress to stand down on Trump-Russia scandals and related investigations. He said in a dramatic speech this week that it's 'case closed' on the collusion and election meddling probes. A source close to Don Jr. told DailyMail.com shortly after the news of the subpoena broke: 'Don is a private citizen, who has already been cleared by Mueller after a two year investigation. He has done 8-9 hours of testimony in front of Senate Intel already and 27 hours of testimony in front of various committees in total. 'When he originally agreed to testify in front of the Senate Intel Committee in 2017, there was an agreement between Don and the Committee that he would only have to come in and testify a single time as long as he was willing to stay for as long as theyd like, which Don did,' the insider added. 'Don continues to cooperate by producing documents and is willing to answer written questions, but no lawyer would ever agree to allow their client to participate in what is an obvious PR stunt from a so-called Republican Senator too cowardly to stand up to his boss Mark Warner and the rest of the resistance Democrats on the committee.' Axios speculated that the subpoena is an indication that Don Jr. 'declined a request to appear' for more testimony. Cohen told the House Oversight Committee in February that he briefed the president's eldest son and Ivanka Trump at least 10 times about Trump Tower Moscow. An architect's drawing of Trump Tower Moscow first published by Buzzfeed showed a glass obelisk 100 stories high and was branded with Donald Trump's logo The proposed Trump Tower Moscow would have been the tallest building in Europe He told the Senate panel in November that the project had been discarded by the time the future president was competing in the 2016 Iowa Caucuses, saying later that he lied to be consistent with Trump's 'political messaging.' In reality, conversations continued about the tower concept through the fall of 2016, when Donald Trump Sr. was already the GOP presidential nominee. In a January Fox News interview, Don Jr. said the concept and its partial execution were all Cohen's doing, painting the disgraced lawyer as a self-promoter who wanted to deliver a finished product that he could take credit for. 'We don't know anything about it. Ultimately, it was Michael Cohen essentially trying to get a deal done,' he said then. Don Jr.'s inner circle has spent the first half of the week fending off requests from Republican Donors and former White House official Steve Bannon for him to run for U.S. Senate in Wyoming. Sen. Mike Enzi will retire at the end of 2020. The president's son has no interest in running, his advisers said. Ivanka Trump (2nd left), Eric Trump (2nd right) and Donald Trump Jr. (right) are pictured in an undate dphoto during a trip to Moscow The plans for Trump Tower Moscow included an architect's drawing of a glass obelisk 100 stories high that would have been the tallest building in Europe and branded multiple times with Donald Trump's logo. The drawing shows a fuller version of the project than Trump's team indicated. Rudy Giuliani, the president's personal attorney, claimed in January that the project hadn't gone beyond a letter of intent and 'no plans were ever made.' But architectural plans and business documents obtained by Buzzfeed showed an architect's drawing of a gleaming glass tower along side the Moscow River topped by a diamondlike shape emblazoned on multiple sides with the Trump logo. The plans were attached to the developer's proposal and did not come from the Trump Organization, a source told DailyMail.com in January. 'The building design you sent over is very interesting,' Russian real estate developer Andrey Rozov wrote to then-Trump attorney Michael Cohen in September 2015, according to Buzzfeed, 'and will be an architectural and luxury triumph. I believe the tallest building in Europe should be in Moscow, and I am prepared to build it.' Cohen was spearheading the project for the Trump Organization. He was in contact with Russian businessman interested in working on the project, which was looking to bring in profits of $300 million or more. A final letter of intent signed by Trump on Oct. 28, 2015, noted Trump Tower Moscow would have 'approximately 250 first class, luxury residential condominiums,' 15 floors of 150 hotel rooms, a luxury spa by Ivanka Trump and fitness center, and a commercial area for businesses to rent. A letter of intent in commercial real estate does not represent a commitment to erect a building. Developers commonly seek them from prospective building managers in order to secure financing for projects. Trump Tower Moscow never came to fruition, but it was one focal point in the Mueller probe of Russia's role in the 2016 election. Giuliani told NBC's 'Meet the Press' that it 'had petered out quite a bit. They sent a letter of intent in. They didn't even know where to send it, they knew so little about it. They finally got it straightened out and then they abandoned the project.' And he told The New Yorker on Monday: 'No plans were ever made. There were no drafts. Nothing in the file.' The plans, Buzzfeed reported, included detailed financial arrangements: the Trump Organization would get a $4 million up-front payment. It would also receive a cut of all the condo sales and a cut for the commercial and office spaces along with 3 percent of sales on food and beverages, spa and fitness center use, and conference fees. The plan was to build Trump Tower Moscow along the Moscow River In November, Buzzfeed reported the Trump Organization at one time planned to give Russian President Vladimir Putin a penthouse worth $50 million in the never-built tower. Felix Sater, a real estate developer and former mobster turned FBI informant who advised the Trump Organization on the deal, said the idea was a marketing ploy. 'In Russia, the oligarchs would bend over backwards to live in the same building as Vladimir Putin,' Sater told Buzzfeed. 'My idea was to give a $50 million penthouse to Putin and charge $250 million more for the rest of the units. All the oligarchs would line up to live in the same building as Putin.' Trump insisted repeatedly throughout the presidential campaign that he had no business dealings in Russia. Separately, House Democrats are eyeing Ivanka Trump as a potential witness in their expanded Russia probe and may could demand testimony from the president's daughter. Unlike Don Jr., she is a White House official making it more likely the president would try to intervene. House Democrats could call Ivanka Trump to testify about her involvement in a Trump Moscow tower project that extended well into 2016, as prosecutors revealed Ivanka told ABC News this year that she knew 'literally almost nothing' about the Moscow project, following a report that she and Don Jr. were involved as far back as 2013. Ivanka, Donald Jr. and Eric Trump visited Moscow in 2015 and reportedly scoped out potential building locations. Leaked emails obtained by Buzzfeed revealed Sater touting his own sway in helping Ivanka during her Moscow visit. In a Nov. 3, 2015 email, Sater wrote to Cohen: 'I arranged for Ivanka to sit in Putin[']s private chair at his desk and office in the Kremlin[.] I will get Putin on this program and we will get Donald elected.' The former Welsh first minister, Carwyn Jones The former Welsh first minister, Carwyn Jones, has lost a High Court appeal to allow text messages to be given as evidence at the inquest into former Welsh Government minister Carl Sargeant. Mr Jones argued the texts could help explain why Mr Sargeant took his own life four days after being sacked from his job as cabinet secretary following allegations of sexual misconduct made by three women. Yet Lord Justice Haddon-Cave said coroner John Gittins had not acted unreasonably by excluding the texts between the leader and deputy leader of Flintshire County Council from evidence, describing Mr Jones argument as 'speculation'. On Thursday, Mr Jones' lawyers told the High Court in Cardiff that the failure to hear evidence from Bernie Attridge and Aaron Shotton, whose texts have been kept from the public, meant the inquest was not a 'full, fair and fearless investigation'. Cathryn McGahey QC, representing Mr Jones, said: 'The coroner has been unduly influenced by the completely understandable wish not to cause distress to the Sargeant family. 'We say Bernie Attridge had highly relevant knowledge about what caused Mr Sargeant to take his own life. He was aware of matters preying on Mr Sargeant's mind. 'We have an exchange between two independent witnesses who know what they are talking about.' Ms McGahey said the inquest would be 'incomplete' and 'one-sided' if the text messages were not included, adding: 'It is unknown, in my experience, for a coroner investigating a suicide not to look at the factors that caused that individual to take his own life.' Sophie Cartwright, for the coroner, argued the inquest was a 'limited fact-finding inquiry', and said finding out the reasons why Mr Sargeant took his own life were not included in statute, nor was it required to come to a conclusion of suicide. Lord Justice Haddon-Cave said senior coroner Mr Gittins had acted correctly and 'well within his scope of discretion', and the application to have the text messages included was 'based on speculation as to what that evidence may or may not show'. Carl Sargeant, 49, was discovered hanged at his home in Connah's Quay, days after his removal as a cabinet minister following allegations of sexual misconduct made by three women He added: 'It is indeed unfortunate the bringing of this application may give rise to further unnecessary speculation about this evidence. It is not appropriate for courts to intervene on the basis of speculation. 'We have seen nothing to suggest the coroner in this case acted anything other than fairly and in accordance with his statutory duty under Section 5 of the Coroners Act. 'Carl Sargeant tragically died almost exactly 18 month ago. It is important there is no further delay and that the inquest is resumed and concluded as soon as possible.' The inquest is scheduled to resume on July 8 after it was adjourned in late November when Mr Jones challenged the North Wales coroner's ruling on the text messages. Mr Sargeant, 49, was discovered hanged at his home in Connah's Quay, days after his removal as a cabinet minister following allegations of sexual misconduct made by three women. His family have said he was not told the details of what he was accused of and was unable to properly defend himself. Following his death in November 2017, then-first minister Mr Jones announced an independent inquiry into how he had handled his former minister's sacking after pressure from Mr Sargeant's family and Labour politicians. In March, Mr Sargeant's widow Bernie won a High Court challenge into the legality of the inquiry after judges ruled it had been 'unlawful' for Mr Jones to have been involved in setting up the protocols. Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte came across some very liberal opposition at a rally this week after an insect crawled over right across him. A large cockroach was caught on camera running over President Duterte's shoulder during his speech, but at first he didn't even seem to notice. The government broadcast was quickly cut to a smiling but bemused crowd at the campaign speech in the central city of Bohol. The President was extolling the virtues of candidates he had endorsed in next week's midterm polls during the rally when the stage invader stole everyone's attention. The bug popped up on Duterte from over his left should and began scuttling towards his stomach with the politician noticing. An aide tried and failed to scrape the critter away with some papers, but Duterte, who was nearing the end of his roughly 90-minute address, managed to quickly brush it aside. The cockroach appears on President Duterte's shoulder while he is speaking to supporter at a rally for the Philippine's midterm elections An aide rushes to try and swipe the small creature off of the President who looks bemused as she tries to find the scuttling insect He then stomped on the floor and joked that the insect may have been planted by the main opposition Liberal party. 'It's Liberal! That's for sure,' Duterte said to laughter from the crowd. The leader's critics quickly took to Twitter to mock his close encounter with the roach, which is more frequently seen scurrying over refuse. Duterte even joked that the cockroach belonged to the opposition party, saying 'It's Liberal! That's for sure' Duterte, who was close to the end of his 90-minute endorsement speech for campaigning senators, eventually found the bug on himself and quickly shook it off 'The cockroach must have realized that duterte is the trashiest trash it has ever seen,' wrote @andy-crush. 'And I never thought I would say this but GOOD JOB EXPOSING THAT TRASH, DEAR COCKROACH,' @keeyaaraaa posted. The Philippine President has proved a divisive character, having waged a bloody and brutal war on drugs in his country and holding a bullish persona on the international stage. Most recently President Duterte threatened to go to war with Canada over claims the country allegedly dumped illegal shipments containing rubbish several years ago. A suspected cocaine dealer has been found guilty of murdering a Playboy model who was found beaten and strangled to death. Jonathan Harris, 31,has been found guilty of first-degree murder in the death of 36-year-old Christina Carlin-Kraft. He was also found guilty of kidnapping, possession of an instrument of a crime and strangulation. Harris, of Ardmore, Pennsylvania, told reporters that he felt 'justice was served' by the jury as he was being led out of the courtroom after the verdict was read. A first-degree murder conviction means Harris will automatically be sentenced to prison with no chance of parole. Scroll down for video Jonathan Harris, 31 (pictured in court on Wednesday, left), has been found guilty of first-degree murder in the death of ex-Playboy model Christina Carlin-Kraft Assistant District Attorney Brianna Ringwood said the verdict was the 'right result'. 'Ms Kraft was a vulnerable person and this defendant took advantage of that when he went back to her apartment and beat her and brutally murderer her,' she told Philly.com. The jury found Harris guilty just hours after his confession was played in court. During his first interview with police, Harris admitted to meeting Kraft in Philadelphia, doing cocaine and having consensual sex with her, but denied strangling her to death inside her apartment on August 22. When Detective Todd Richard pointed out to Harris some inconsistencies in his version of events, the suspect confessed to killing Kraft. Harris allegedly confessed to police that he beat up Kraft for refusing to pay him $1,200 for cocaine and strangled her when she tried to call 911 Kraft's old modeling profile lists photo shoots for Vanity Fair, Victoria's Secret, Playboy, Maxim Harris said he had sold Kraft $1,200 worth of cocaine and went back to her apartment to drink several bottles of wine and have sex, but then the two got into a heated dispute over payment for the drugs. He said the ex-Playboy model thought she did not owe him any cash for the cocaine because she already had sex with him, but he disagreed. 'I slapped her in the face and she fell to the floor,' Harris told police, claiming his violent outburst was prompted by Kraft first hitting him on the ear with a wine bottle. Harris said he then carried Kraft to the bed, tied her hands to prevent her from fighting back and punched her in the face for refusing to pay him for the drugs. When Kraft reached for her phone and proceeded to dial 911, Harris said he 'began choking her,' according to the written confession. 'I panicked. I was scared. I didn't know what to do. I covered her with a blanket because I didn't want to see her like that. I knew she was hurt really bad,' he added. 'I never meant for this girl to die. When I left the apartment she was not dead. I would do anything to take this back,' he told the detective . Toxicology reports found no cocaine or any other drugs in Kraft's system, only a high blood alcohol content. Harris (pictured on Wednesday) told reporters that he felt 'justice was served' by the jury as he was being led out of the courtroom after the verdict was read The jury found Harris guilty just hours after his confession to killing Carlin-Kraft was played in court on Thursday. He is pictured here being led into court in October 'Christina Kraft's last moments on this Earth were horrendous, were horrifying, all because of the hardness of this man who sits before you,' Ringwood told the jury during her closing arguments. Harris had pleaded not guilty to murder charges in Kraft's slaying. During the trial, his defense argued that he was high on cocaine, marijuana and K2 and did not what he was doing. Charles Peruto, Harris' attorney, did not dispute his confession during closing arguments on Thursday. Instead, Peruto asked the jury to find Harris guilty of third-degree murder, which carries a maximum sentence of 20-40 years, instead of first-degree murder. 'This wasn't a specific attempt to kill,' he said. 'He didn't go there for that. There was no evidence of that whatsoever.' Peruto instead claimed that Carlin-Kraft had invited Harris back to her apartment as a 'ploy to get cocaine for free'. He alleged that she was 'rip-roaring drunk' when they began to fight. Police say Harris choked Kraft to death inside her condo in Ardmore, Pennsylvania (pictured), in August 2018 'This is not a "who done it,"' Peruto told the jury. 'This was a "what was done and why."' Ringwood refuted Peurto's claims, claiming that Harris had 'beat, bound, and strangled' Carlin-Kraft 'with intent'. She noted that, shortly after the murder, Harris told a man in his hospital room that there was nothing 'like squeezing somebody and feeling the last breath leave their body'. 'That statement says he was conscious and aware that she was taking her last breath,' Ringwood told the jury. 'It's enough to convict him, and you should.' Prosecutors are not seeking the death penalty against Harris. Kraft's old modeling profile lists photo shoots for Vanity Fair, Victoria's Secret, Playboy and Maxim. Joseph Grey was found with a revolver, 150 rounds of ammunition and an improvised grenade A drug dealer was jailed for eight years after he told police 'er... I think I've got a grenade and a gun' before he was searched. Joseph Grey, 54, was found with a revolver, 150 rounds of ammunition and an improvised grenade on Oldham Road, Manchester on January 30 this year. After he was stopped as part of an investigation into organised crime, officers had asked Grey: 'Do you have anything on you that you shouldn't have?' Grey said that he did, and when asked what it was, he said: 'Er... I think it's a grenade.' An officer asks: 'You think you've got a grenade?' 'Yeah, and a gun,' says Grey. Bomb disposal officers were called to carry out a controlled explosion of the grenade - an improvised device kept in a plastic bag with what was believed to be a firing mechanism from a military smoke grenade - and the road was closed for some time. The miniature gun a Turkish EKOL Arda 4mm Rimfire Flobert revolver was recovered from Grey with more than 150 rounds of ammunition in his pocket. Pictured: The grenade, which was destroyed at the scene in Manchester on January 30 this year As part of the same operation, a search at Grey's flat found nine kilograms of cannabis - which police estimate to have a street value of between 49,500 and 67,000 - along with four kilograms of amphetamines with a higher than usual purity, which is estimated to yield between 40,000 and 100,000 depending on further adulteration. Grey was today jailed for eight years after pleading guilty to possession of a prohibited weapon, possession of a firearm with the intent to endanger life, possession of ammunition with the intent to endanger life, and two counts of possession with the intent to supply Class B drugs. The 'loving husband and father' turned to crime to solve his financial problems and was acting on the orders of others further up the criminal chain, the court heard. Oldham Road was sealed off on January 30 after police pulled over Grey's Volkswagen Caddy van as part of a pre-planned operation by officers investigating organised crime. The revolver was tested and found to be in good working order, and could fire the matching ammunition. Grey had collected the gun, ammo and grenade and was due to take it to his home to be stored, the court heard. The miniature gun - a Turkish EKOL Arda 4mm Rimfire Flobert revolver - was recovered from Grey with more than 150 rounds of ammunition in his pocket Grey has 19 previous convictions, including offences of possession of cannabis with intent to supply He has 19 previous convictions, including offences of possession of cannabis with intent to supply. The court heard that Grey was left unable to work due to health issues, and started to get into financial difficulties. Defending, Alex Leach said there was no evidence of Grey being involved in a 'wider criminal plot'. He said that Grey was expecting to collect items relating to organised crime, but he didn't realise it would be a gun and a grenade. Mr Leach said that Grey plays a 'vital' role in the family and is supported by his wife, daughter and wider family. He said the defendant has had health issues and is 'frightened by the prospect he will die in custody'. A letter written by Grey submitted to the court told of his 'contrition', Mr Leach said. Sentencing, Judge Elizabeth Nicholls said she accepted that Grey was acting on the instructions of others. Judge Nicholls told Grey: 'It's one thing to have financial difficulties, it's another thing to turn to serious organised crime in order to find finances to support yourself, which in essence is what you did. 'It has to be said that given your background, given your maturity, you are a man who must have entered this activity with your eyes wide open. The revolver was tested and found to be in good working order, and could fire the matching ammunition 'The very fact that you didn't ask what you were collecting perhaps says it all. You didn't want to know.' She added that the gun had not been used or fired in any criminal plot previously. Despite this, the judge said that such offences involving firearms are 'very serious matters' and call for punishment. 'They cause a blight upon this city and endanger the lives of many people,' Judge Nicholls added. Detective Inspector Tony Norman of Greater Manchester Police's Serious and Organised Crime Group, said: 'Had we not stopped and arrested Grey that day, who knows the devastation his armoury could have caused. 'The grenade itself was deemed too volatile for bomb disposal officers to fully examine it so it had to be destroyed straight away. 'It's so important that we continue in our fight to take weapons and drugs off our streets but we simply cannot do this alone and heavily rely on information being passed onto us from the public. 'For anyone who is unsure whether they should contact us about crime in their area please, trust your instinct and make that call. 'We will never know what damage this could have caused and quite frankly, it's something that's not worth thinking about. Work with us to put people like Grey behind bars and make Greater Manchester a safer place.' A Connecticut veterinarian has been accused of squeezing a kitten to death and harming a dog by performing unnecessary surgery just to get the fee. Amr Wasfi was charged with animal cruelty and larceny last week after authorities say he killed or harmed animals at his veterinarian practice in Bridgeport. The 74-year-old, who runs the Black Rock Animal Hospital, was arraigned on Wednesday but did not enter a plea. Authorities say Wasfi squeezed a four-month-old kitten to death that was supposed to be spayed. He also allegedly performed unnecessary surgery on a dog that had been diagnosed with a sprain. Amr Wasfi, 74, was charged with animal cruelty and larceny last week after authorities say he killed or harmed animals at his veterinarian practice in Bridgeport, Connecticut Police started investigating Wasfi in December when one of his employees reported allegations of abuse. The employee told police she had walked into the operating room and allegedly saw Wasfi striking the kitten. The woman claims she was fired the next day. Police say they also received a complaint in February after a man took his limping dog to see Wasfi. He claims the vet diagnosed his dog with a sprained leg and gave him medication. The owner took the dog back a week later when he was still limping. Wasfi is alleged to have shown the owner an x-ray and informed him the dog actually had a fracture on his pelvis. Authorities say Wasfi performed unnecessary surgery on a dog that had been diagnosed with a sprain in March. The dog's owner said the surgery left his dog bloody, scarred and emaciated The 74-year-old, who runs the Black Rock Animal Hospital, was arraigned on Wednesday but did not enter a plea The owner paid $3,300 for the surgery and was told he could pick the dog up in five days. The man repeatedly tried to see his dog over the next two weeks but was refused access and ended up calling police. His dog had lost a considerable amount of weight and was left bloody and scarred. The man claims another vet examined his dog and said he never sustained such a fracture. Wasfi had also allegedly inserted a screw into the dog but it was nowhere near where he claimed the fracture was. Wasfi, who opened the animal hospital in 1977, was arrested last week. He had his vet license revoked in 1996 but it was reinstated in 2003. Wasfi is free on $10,000 bond and his case has been postponed until next month so his lawyer can examine evidence. A retired teacher's young lover allegedly murdered him by secretly feeding him drugs and alcohol just a year and a half after they were betrothed. Ben Field, 28, has been accused of pairing up with Martyn Smith, 32, to feed psychedelic drugs to Peter Farquhar, 69, in order to get into his will. Oxford Crown Court heard that Field and Mr Farquhar were betrothed at a private ceremony in West Hampstead, London, in March 2014. In a diary entry from the time, Mr Farquhar said of the ceremony: 'It is one of the happiest moments of my life. Gone are the fears of dying alone.' He added: 'We took the train to London, to a church in Hammersmith. To have this wonderful young man in my life until I die... It was a beautiful day in London. God is good to me. Far more than I deserve.' Peter Farquhar, 69, and Ben Field, 28, were betrothed in a private ceremony in West Hampstead, London, in March 2014 They had met at the University of Buckingham when Mr Farquhar was a guest lecturer and Field was a student. Snaps from the day show the couple exchanging knives and a ring as gifts marking their union. Prosecutors claim Field suffocated Mr Farquhar to death in October 2015 after a sustained 'gaslighting' campaign where he led him to believe he had gone insane at his home in the village of Maids Moreton in Buckinghamshire. Field and Smith reportedly fed him psychedelic drugs, which they had served him on his toast and in his chocolate. The retired English teacher and lecturer had been besotted with his young lover, and had grown increasingly dependent as his health deteriorated, the court had heard. In a journal entry read to the jury by Mr Saxby QC and Detective Sergeant Richard Earl, who appeared in the witness stand, Mr Farquhar wrote in lovestruck disbelief. He wrote: 'He [Field] wants to make a commitment and live here - thank you God. A knife is the wedding ring of brotherhood.' At the end of the hearing, the jury were shown an image of the couple standing on a hilltop after sealing their relationship, gazing down with happy smiles from the misty summit. Field has been accused of secretly feeding Mr Farquhar drugs and alcohol for months in order to get his inheritance. Pictured: the pair at the summit of Dunkers Beacon after getting engaged Describing the day they became engaged, at the summit of Dunkers Beacon in North Somerset, devout Christian Mr Farquhar wrote: 'We embraced each other totally on that summit hilltop... God is good to me.' The prosecutor told the jury most people assumed Mr Farquhar had drunk himself to death, including a coroner who conducted an investigation into his death, and that after Mr Farquhar died Field collected the inheritance of 20,000 and his home. The pair were also accused with attempting to murder 83-year-old Ann Moore-Martin, pictured, who lived just a couple of doors down the road, and who Field was also in a sexual relationship with Smith collected 10,000, the court heard. The pair were also accused with attempting to murder 83-year-old Ann Moore-Martin, who lived just a couple of doors down the road, and who Field was also in a sexual relationship with. Benjamin Field, from Olney, is charged with one count of murder, one count of attempted murder, one count of conspiracy to murder, one count of burglary, three counts of fraud and one count of possession of an article for use in fraud. He has admitted the three fraud counts and the burglary. Martyn Smith, from Redruth, Cornwall, denies all the charges against him - one count of murder, one count of attempted murder, one count of conspiracy to murder, three counts of fraud, one count of burglary and one count of possession of an article for use in fraud, namely the will of an 101-year-old woman called Elizabeth Zettl, who Field lodged with. Also in the dock was Tom Field, 23, from Olney, who is Benjamin Field's brother. He was charged with fraud by false representation. The prosecutor told the jury this was in relation to an alleged incident where the two Field brothers and Smith convinced Ms Ann Moore-Martin that Tom Field needed 27,000 to buy a kidney dialysis machine so he could remain at university. He denies fraud. The trial continues. President Donald Trump on Thursday claimed Robert Mueller was 'in love' with former FBI Director James Comey but noted he'd leave it up to Attorney General Bill Barr whether the special counsel should testify before Congress as Democrats are threatening a subpoena. 'Bob Mueller's no friend of mine,' the president told reporters at the White House on Thursday. 'We had somebody that is in love with James Comey,' he charged of Mueller. President Donald Trump claimed Robert Mueller was 'in love' with former FBI Director James Comey Robert Mueller (left) and James Comey (right) had overlapping careers at the Justice Department but the former FBI director has said the two are not friends Comey and Mueller were photographed together in June 2013 when President Barack Obama announced Comey would succeed Mueller as director of the FBI Mueller and Comey with then-Attorney General Eric Holder in September 2013, when Comey was officially sworn in to succeed Mueller as FBI director 'They were very good friends, supposedly best friends, maybe not, supposedly best friends,' he added. 'You look at the picture file and you see hundreds of pictures of him and Comey.' Mueller and Comey had overlapping careers at the Justice Department. Comey was deputy attorney general during the George W. Bush administration when Mueller served as FBI director. But Comey told House lawmakers in December the two men were not 'best friends.' 'I am not,' Comey said when asked if the two men were besties. 'I admire the heck out of the man, but I don't know his phone number, I've never been to his house, I don't know his children's names.' He added: 'I think I had a meal once alone with him in a restaurant. I like him. I am not a - I'm an associate of his who admires him greatly. We're not friends in any social sense.' Trump has repeatedly hammered Comey and Mueller even after the Russia probe against his administration ended. It was no different on Thursday but the president did reverse course and say he would leave it up to Barr as to whether or not Mueller should testify before Congress. 'I'm going to leave that up to our very great attorney general, and he'll make a decision on that,' Trump said. That's a reversal from last week when Trump said the special counsel should not testify. 'Bob Mueller should not testify,' he tweeted last. Trump's turn about come as House Judiciary Chairman Jerry Nadler threatened to subpoena the special counsel. Mueller and Comey were also pictured together in February 2004 when Mueller was FBI director and Comey was deputy attorney general as they announce charges against Enron chief executive Jeffrey Skilling Trump said he would let Attorney General Bill Barr decide whether or not Robert Mueller should testify before Congress But House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jerry Nadler said he would subpoena Mueller if necessary 'Eventually we will hear from Mueller because we will, if we have to, we will subpoena him,' Nadler told CNN Wednesday evening. 'I certainly hope it doesnt come to our necessity to subpoena him,' he added. Mueller's report found no evidence of collusion, but it left the decision to charge Trump with obstructing the investigation into Barr's hands. Barr, in conjunction with then-Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein, decided not to pursue obstruction charges. However, Mueller's report made it clear that Congress still has the oversight authority to investigate the president on the matter. 'The conclusion that Congress may apply the obstruction laws to the President's corrupt exercise of the powers of office accords with our constitutional system of checks and balances and the principle that no person is above the law,' the report stated. Democrats have latched on to that and asked for the full Mueller report as part of that probe. They have also argued they need to hear directly from Mueller. The committee has set a target date of May 15 for the special counsel to come and speak but it has not been agreed to. A Christian radiographer has been told to write a 'reflective essay' on his behavior after making sexual inappropriate comments to female comments. A hearing heard Ermias Haile had told a junior female colleague during her first night shift in June 2017 he was picturing her in Victoria's Secret underwear, adding 'if you were single, I would date you', and 'do you think I'm too old to date you?'. The radiographer said she avoided working nights following this incident because she did not want to work with Haile, a disciplinary hearing heard. He also made sexually inappropriate comments to two female students on placement at Prince Charles Hospital, Merthyr Tydfil, and Barnsley Hospital in 2017, a disciplinary hearing was told. Ermias Haile made sexually inappropriate comments to two female students on placement at Prince Charles Hospital, Merthyr Tydfil (pictured) The two students complained of similar behaviour after a manager at Prince Charles Hospital asked more alleged victims to come forward. One student claimed Haile asked if he could 'stamp her breasts' when holding a stamp used on patient forms to show they are not pregnant, when she was on placement at Barnsley Hospital in 2015. She said she went red and left the room. She said he also offered her a sweet and said: 'That is how I taste.' The student said this experience contributed to her unhappiness and subsequent decision to drop out of university. When she restarted the course at another university in 2017, she met Haile again at Prince Charles Hospital, where he offered for her to sit on his lap. He also told her 'you look so much more beautiful when you don't wear make-up.' She said when she saw Haile, she was shocked, had a lump in her throat and her heart sank. A second student on placement at Prince Charles Hospital in April 2017 said Haile came up behind her when she was looking at a CT scan on the computer and offered to give her a neck massage. The complainants each gave evidence at the Health and Care Professions Tribunal Service hearing from behind a screen, saying they were nervous and felt vulnerable. They said they had not come forward at the time because of this. Haile denied all allegations, claiming he always acted professionally at work and he was a devout born-again Christian who would not have relationships with anyone outside his community, the Eritrean community. He added he was planning his wedding in June 2017 and all his colleagues were aware of this. Haile said he thought the colleague who first complained about him wanted his senior job, and the two students thought they might get jobs if they assisted management with her complaint. Two witnesses working at the hospital told the hearing they did not notice anything suspicious about Haile's behaviour. A colleague of Haile's at both Prince Charles Hospital and Barnsley Hospital described him as quiet, and someone who would get embarrassed by sexual or personal conversations and leave the room. He added that he did not believe he ate sweets and described him as a committed Christian who spoke to everyone about preparing for his wedding. The colleague also added that the stamping incident could not have happened because the stamp referred to has never been in use at Barnsley Hospital, and he did not know of it being used in the several other UK hospitals where he has worked. A female colleague at Prince Charles Hospital described Haile as softly spoken, courteous and polite. She added that she had worked night shifts with him before and he had never acted inappropriately. Martin Weinbren, defending Haile, said there was evidence to suggest the three students had worked together to frame Haile because they wanted his job. One student claimed Haile asked if he could 'stamp her breasts' when holding a stamp used on patient forms to show they are not pregnant, when she was on placement at Barnsley Hospital (pictured) in 2015 He said he believed this as they were unable to give specific dates in their statements. He also said he thought they were after his job due to their similar use of the words 'creepy' and 'creeped out' in their statements. However, the tribunal panel judged all allegations to be true - apart from the stamp incident because the stamp could not be proven to have existed at the time. They ruled evidence given by the second student about the neck massage was 'compelling' whereas Haile tried to claim neck massages were standard practice among radiographers. The panel were not convinced by his claim the junior radiographer was trying to take his job, and that because he did not eat sweets he could not have made a sexual comment about sweets to another student. The panel described Haile's misconduct as 'serious', but allowed him to keep his senior position at both hospitals. He was ordered to complete a course on professional boundaries, address his behaviour with his supervisor at the hospital, and write a reflective essay. The sister of a nine-year-old Michigan boy accused of shooting dead his adoptive mother says he was probably trying to scare Pauline Randol, 51. Reagan Martin, 23, believes the boy - who has not been identified because he is underage - was likely attempting to frighten her biological mother, Pauline Randol, when he fatally injured her with a rifle in their living room on Monday morning. 'I dont think he meant to do it. I think was probably a scare tactic,' she told MLive. The boy was charged Wednesday with the woman's murder but his sisters, who are Randol's children from a previous relationship, have said he suffers from mental health issues. It was one of the reasons he was kept home from school Monday, days before Randol's death. Martin said the boy, who her mother adopted from Indiana three years ago, switched medications in the past two weeks and his behavioral problems worsened, causing him to start 'hitting, kicking and throwing stuff'. Sister of boy accused of murder thinks he was using 'a scare tactic' when he fatally injured his adoptive mother. Pauline Randol, 51, was found dead early Monday morning Pauline Randol, 51, was found dead at her home on Fawn River Township having suffered a fatal gunshot wound 'My mom would not want him to be labeled a murderer,' Martin said. 'Her whole world revolved around him.' Martin thinks the boy suddenly 'snapped' at his home in Fawn River Township. Just a day before he wasn't a concern to her. She continued: 'He was playing with my kids. He was happy. My mom was happy.' But Martin doesn't know how they boy got his hands on a rifle they used for hunting as they are usually locked away. Martin said the boy's biological mother was drug addict and he had a number of mental 'scars' from his childhood. 'Im angry, dont get me wrong. But hes my little brother and he needs help. I hope he gets it,' she added. He now faces murder and firearm charges, though it's unclear whether he'll be prosecuted as an adult or juvenile. Randol's daughter Reagan Martin thinks he didn't mean to do it and said her mother (pictured) 'would not want him to be labeled a murderer' Pauline and the boy were scheduled to meet with a mental health professional the day after she was found dead, as family members say she was growing increasingly concerned about the boy's mental state. Another of her daughters, Harley Martin, revealed that Randol had 'told her doctor one time she was so scared she was raising the next serial killer'. Harley, however, was adamant that the boy was not a 'bad kid' and said 'this was not something he would have just done to be spiteful, to be mean'. 'He loved his mom. I don't want people to think he did not love his mom,' she told 24 Hour News 8. 'He had lost of mental health issues that were not being helped. He started on [new] medication last week. Who knows how that reacted?' Harley said her mother was aware of the boy's mental health issues and troubled upbringing before she adopted him in February 2016. WWMT-TV reports that Congress Elementary School in Sturgis contacted the mother of a girl who the juvenile had a chilling message for last year 'But she took him in to care for him as her own,' Harley told the Detroit Free Press. 'She had been trying to reach out for help by his family doctor... who blamed her for [these] issues.' In court Tuesday, the boy asked where his mother was and Harley said 'he doesn't know what he did'. 'He doesn't understand why he can't come home or anything,' she continued. 'He's traumatized by what he saw in there. That's all he told my dad about was seeing that. It's going to mess him up for a really long time because he does not realize what he's done.' A neighbor told WWMT the boy was a second-grader at Congress Elementary School in Sturgis. Another mother from the school told the station that the child had threatened her 8-year-old daughter last year. 'He told her that he wanted to get a knife and stab her and watch her die, and watch her mother cry,' Alecia Pieronski recalled of a conversation between the suspect and her daughter in February 2018. 'My want was to remove him from the school and protect the children. I do feel in my whole heart the teachers and principals did everything they could do.' Another of her daughters, Harley Martin, revealed that Randol had 'told her doctor one time she was so scared she was raising the next serial killer' The circumstances of the killing and details of why the child is considered a suspect have not been released. It's not clear how many times Pauline was shot. Reagan Martin said her mother tried to reach out to various mental health services in St. Joseph County but their family's insurance wouldn't cover the medical costs. 'She eventually got an appointment where she had to spend money out [of her] pocket, but that was supposed to be for Tuesday, and it was too late,' she shared. 'My mother's death lays in the hands of people failing to educate in mental issues and failing to listen when helped is being begged for.' Sheriff Bradley Balk says the youth was undergoing a psychiatric evaluation at a state-run juvenile facility on Tuesday. Police were carrying out forensics interviews to determine the child's state of mind. 'Maybe this a wake-up call to other schools when you have that troubled child screaming for help to do something,' Pieronski added. In a Facebook post Randol cryptically spoke about a child that was 'missing skills' and said she needed 'support and understanding' In a Facebook post Randol cryptically spoke about a child that was 'missing skills' and said she needed 'support and understanding'. Sturgis Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Arthur Ebert said in a statement: 'Our community has experienced a tragic event. As a district it is our goal to provide support to our students, staff, and the community. 'We are limited in what we can share due to privacy laws and the sensitive nature of this tragedy. The St. Joseph County Sheriff's Department is leading the investigation regarding this event that occurred outside of school, including the release of information about the investigation.' A neighbor said they weren't surprised to hear the boy had been arrested. 'My wife and I both, when we heard that the woman was shot, we both looked at each other and said 'I bet it was him',' Joseph Lancaster told FOX 17 Wednesday. 'The little boy, because I have grandkids. I have one the same age and I've got smaller ones. And he would stand in the tree line over there and point his BB gun at him and shoot at them. 'It's just crazy, scary. You know, he could have shot anybody around here.' A surfer has been killed in a shark attack off the island of Reunion. The man, aged 28, was pronounced dead on being brought back to the port of Saint-Leu. He was surfing in a 'banned area' in the Indian Ocean and 'ignored warnings' authorities had issued, the Mirror reported. Medical teams are pictured attending the scene, above. The man, aged 28, was pronounced dead on being brought back to the port of Saint-Leu, pictured above He was accompanied by three friends who tried to take him back to land but did not manage, according to one local official. A sharp increase in shark attacks on Reunion since 2011 has been dubbed locally the 'shark crisis' and prompted authorities to step up alert systems. It is the 24th shark attack recorded since 2011 on the island, which is French territory. Before the latest attack, the local authorities had urged the 'greatest vigilance' among beach users as more people flock to the coast at a season when there are high numbers of the highly aggressive bull shark. More people have flocked to the coast at a season when there are high numbers of the highly aggressive bull shark. Three friends tried to take the surfer back to land but did not manage, according to one local official Before the latest attack, the local authorities had urged the 'greatest vigilance' among beach users. It is the 24th shark attack recorded since 2011 on the island, which is French territory Unofficial designated drug-dealing zones in a park has provoked outrage among German politicians and police. Berlin's Goerlitzer Park, in the popular district of Kreuzberg, has become a hub for dealers openly approaching passers-by and selling drugs - much like the fictional Baltimore neighbourhood of Hamsterdam in the acclaimed drama The Wire. While random police raids have done little to stop the dozens of dealers in the area - day or night - park director Cengiz Demirci has spearheaded an imitative. Fed up with its seedy reputation and after numerous complaints, Mr Demirci spray-painted pink rectangles on the ground at various points in the park designating where the dealers could operate. Goerlitzer Park director Cengiz Demirci has spearheaded an imitative that gives drug dealers designated spaces to sell drugs in the popular Berlin park The idea was to discourage the drug dealers - an estimated 250, according to a local newspaper - from operating in other family-friendly areas such as children's playgrounds. But his initiative has angered politicians, including Germany's national drug commissioner Marlene Mortler, who told media group Funke: 'If this is true, it's a capitulation of the rule of law.' 'We cannot give the dealers a license to trade.' Berlin's police union have also condemned Demirci's initiative. A spokesman said: 'For the park to be cleaned of drugs and therefore crime, there must be permanent police pressure, legal determination and political support.' Mr Demirci spray-painted pink rectangles on the ground at various points in the park designating where the dealers could operate His idea was to discourage the drug dealers - an estimated 250, according to a local newspaper - from operating in other family-friendly areas such as children's playgrounds Authorities in Kreuzberg gave assurances on Thursday that the initiative was still at the proposal stage and no final decision had been taken, despite the escalating controversy. The local council have also distanced themselves from the project saying that it was only a suggestion by Mr Demirci and had not been adopted, The Telegraph reported. Mr Demirci, who has since been ordered not to speak to the press, said in an interview the idea was not to 'legitimise drug sales' but protect park users, the publication reported. He has since come under fire from politicians and police for the initiative. Germany's drug commissioner Marlene Mortler slammed the project, saying: 'We cannot give the dealers a license to trade' Meanwhile former social worker Thomas Sonnenburg branded the project 'total nonsense'. 'It's an attempt to offer a solution to the chaos that has reigned in this park for years, so that not every mother with her child is accosted by dealers,' he told NTV. 'We have to fight the causes' of illegal drugs use, Sonnenburg added, insisting that previous attempts to clean up the park had failed, from 'zero-tolerance' to the current 'sham-liberal solution'. On Thursday morning many dealers were seen scattered around the park, but the spray-painted marked areas were empty. John T. Earnest, 19, faces 109 additional federal charges in the Poway shooting Federal officials announced Thursday that they have filed 109 hate crime charges against the man accused of a deadly gun attack on a Southern California synagogue. They also said that after the suspect fled he called a 911 dispatcher to report that he had carried out the shooting to 'defend my nation' against the Jewish people. U.S. Attorney Robert S. Brewer Jr. said he will decide whether to seek the death penalty in the case against John T. Earnest stemming from last month's shooting at Chabad of Poway, in a suburb north of San Diego. The new charges also include an earlier arson at a nearby mosque. 'We will not allow our community members to be hunted in their houses of worship, where they should feel free and safe to exercise their right to practice their religion,' Brewer said at news conference in San Diego on Thursday to announce the charges. United States attorney Robert S. Brewer, right, speaks during a news conference Thursday in San Diego. Federal officials announced Thursday that they have filed 109 hate crime charges Earnest has already pleaded not guilty to state charges of murder and attempted murder. He is seen at arraignment on the state charges last month The unsealed complaint reveals what prosecutors say Earnest told a 911 dispatcher as he called to surrender after the shooting. 'I just shot up a synagogue. I'm just trying to defend my nation from the Jewish people... They're destroying our people,' Earnest said, according to the complaint. 'I opened fire at a synagogue. I think I killed some people,' Earnest allegedly added, explaining he had attacked the synagogue 'because the Jewish people are destroying the white race.' The federal charges include murder for the killing of 60-year-old Lori Kaye, 60, who was shot twice as she prayed in the foyer. It also includes a charge for the attempted murder of 53 others. Three people were wounded, including an 8-year-old girl, her uncle and Rabbi Yisroel Goldstein, who was leading a service at the Chabad of Poway synagogue on the last day of Passover, a major Jewish holiday. Goldstein lost a finger. According to a federal affidavit, Earnest legally bought a semi-automatic rifle from a licensed dealer in San Diego a day before the April 27 attack. He walked into the synagogue with the AR-15 style semi-automatic rifle that was fully loaded with a 10-round magazine. He wore a chest rig with five more magazines carrying a total of 50 bullets. Trump listens to Rabbi Yisroel Goldstein, who was wounded in the shooting at the Congregation Chabad in Poway, speaks during a National Day of Prayer service on May 2 A sheriff's deputy stands in front of the Poway Chabad Synagogue the day after the shooting. Federal officials announced Thursday that they have filed 109 hate crime charges He emptied his magazine. The shooting stopped as he struggled to reload it. That's when several members of the congregation, including an off-duty Border Patrol Agent, chased Earnest from the synagogue. After the gunman fled the scene, he called 911 from his car and told a dispatcher that he had opened fire at a synagogue. In a court appearance last month, Earnest pleaded not guilty to state charges of murder and attempted murder. In a separate case, he has pleaded not guilty to burning a mosque in nearby Escondido. Prosecutors say Earnest expressed his 'intent to harm Jews' in an online posting, a copy of which was also found later on his laptop. In the same posting, he also acknowledged using gasoline to spark a blaze that charred a wall of the mosque in Escondido, where seven people were inside the building at the time and saw flames coming through the crack of one of the doors. Pallbearers carry the casket of shooting victim Lori Gilbert Kaye during a graveside service on April 29 in San Diego. Lori Gilbert Kaye was killed inside the Chabad of Poway synagogue In the posting, a man identified as Earnest said he was inspired by the attack on the Tree of Life synagogue in Pittsburgh last fall and the shooting at two mosques in New Zealand last month that killed 50 people, according to the affidavit. Earnest was an accomplished student, athlete and musician whose embrace of white supremacy and anti-Semitism stunned his family and others closest to him. He lived with his parents and made the dean's list both semesters last year as a nursing student at California State University, San Marcos. Earnest frequented 8chan, a dark corner of the web where those disaffected by mainstream social media sites often post extremist, racist and violent views. 'I've only been lurking here for a year and half, yet what I've learned here is priceless. It's been an honor,' he wrote. Federal hate crime charges were also filed against the gunman who killed 11 worshippers at the Pittsburgh synagogue. Authorities in that case say Robert Bowers also expressed hatred of Jews. Bowers, 46, has pleaded not guilty Alabama politicians on Thursday delayed a vote at the last minute on a bill that if passed would establish the nation's strictest abortion ban. Under the Human Life Protection Act, it would be a felony for a doctor to perform an abortion, punishable by a minimum of 10 years - and up to 99 - in prison, according to The Huffington Post. Alabama state senators appeared to pass the bill, until it became apparent that some Republicans had attempted to remove exemptions for rape and incest at the last minute ultimately only allowing for abortions if a woman's life is in danger. Shouting broke out in the Senate when the exemption for rape and incest was removed from the bill, which would make performing an abortion at any stage of pregnancy a felony, without a roll call vote. In this Wednesday April 17, 2019 file photo, Bianca Cameron-Schwiesow, from left, Kari Crowe and Margeaux Hardline, dressed as handmaids, take part in a protest against HB314, the abortion ban bill, at the Alabama State House in Montgomery, Alabama Democrats and at least one Republican objected to the motion being quickly gaveled through on what they said was an important exception to the proposed abortion ban. 'You've got 27 men over on the other side ready to tell women what they can do with their bodies,' Democratic Sen. Bobby Singleton said. 'You don't have to procedurally just try to railroad us.' Republican Lt. Gov. Will Ainsworth said legislative procedures were followed properly. Senate President Pro Tem Del Marsh, the Republican leader of the GOP-dominated Senate, suggested lawmakers go home for the weekend to cool off and resume debate next week. Marsh said he supports an exemption for rape. 'Confusion broke out on the Senate floor today and House Bill 314 was carried over until Tuesday because Alabama lawmakers have been faced with the real and dangerous implications of this bill,' said Staci Fox, president and CEO of Planned Parenthood of Southeast Advocates. 'I hope they take this opportunity to think critically about what this bill means for the women of this state and why women and doctors should be making these personal, private health care decisions - not politicians,' she added. This April 30, 2019 file photo shows Representative Terri Collins, a Republican, answering questions during debate on the abortion ban bill at the Alabama Statehouse in Montgomery The state House had already passed a version of the bill that had exemptions for rape and incest, which Republicans in the Senate sought to eliminate. The law would not punish women who seek or obtain abortions, and exempts cases where abortions would prevent serious health risks to the mother. In dramatic language, the bill describes the estimated 50 million abortions carried out in the U.S. as three times the combined death toll of Nazi death camps, Communist Chinese purges, Joseph Stalin's Soviet gulags, the Cambodian killing fields, and the Rwandan genocide. Gov. Kay Ivey, a Republican, has not said publicly whether she would sign the bill into law if it passes. State Representative Terri Collins, a Republican, sponsored the legislation, saying the goal was to pass something that could lead to a legal challenge to Roe v. Wade, the 1973 U.S. Supreme Court decision that effectively legalized abortion. Collins did not immediately respond to a request for comment by DailyMail.com. With a newly conservative majority on the nation's highest court, some pro-choice advocates have raised concerns that the justices could overturn the landmark decision and reverse protections for a woman's right to choose to terminate a pregnancy. The Alabama bill comes soon after Kentucky, Mississippi, Ohio and Georgia approved bans on abortion once a fetal heartbeat is detected, which can occur in about the sixth week of pregnancy. Georgia Governor Brian Kemp, a Republican, signed a proposal known as the 'heartbeat' abortion bill into law on Tuesday. That law bans abortions when women are six weeks pregnant typically when a fetal heartbeat can first be detected, but often before women know they are pregnant. The Alabama bill, which was approved by the House of Representatives 74-3 last week, goes further by seeking to outlaw abortion outright. 'This bill goes directly to the question of personhood,' Republican Sen. Clyde Chambliss said. Chambliss said the bill was not about the right of privacy, referring to the legal basis behind Roe but about 'the right of an unborn child to live.' 'That child has the right to develop and be delivered without its privacy being invaded, invaded by forceps and scalpels,' Chambliss said. Opposed senators said supporters were grandstanding in a political fight that will cost the state legal fees that could be spent on health care and other needs. 'I hope that the 27 men on the other side of the aisle are able look at the women in their family in the eye, or the women who are in their district, and be able to explain away their votes to them,' Singleton said. The bills signal a shift from some conservative states attempting to chip away at the edges of abortion access to a go-for-broke strategy of pushing outright abortion bans. Critics have promised a swift lawsuit to challenge the ban if enacted and people on both sides say they expect lower courts to block the measure from taking effect. They differ on their expectations of what will happen when an appeal gets to the Supreme Court. Britain's biggest car manufacturer Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) could be sold to French car group PSA imminently after racking up losses of 3.4billion between October and December, according to leaked papers. The Tata Motors owned firm has been a target of PSA, owner of Peugeot, Citroen and Vauxhall, for several months. It is believed a 'post-sale integration document', which outlines the benefits of the two companies joining forces, is already in circulation and the firms are exploring the detail of cost savings after a tie-up. Indian company Tata Motors denied the report, which cited sources referring to an internal 'post-sale integration document', describing cost savings. Leaked information suggests a sale of struggling Jaguar Land Rover to French car group PSA could be imminent. Pictured, staff gathered outide the Jaguar Land Rover site in Halewood, Knowsley, Merseyside, after job losses were announced earlier this year 'As a matter of policy, we do not comment on media speculation, but we can confirm there is no truth to these rumours,' said a spokesperson for the Indian carmaker, which owns 100 percent of JLR. Jaguar Land Rover has been struggling in recent months, making redundancies across its business and cutting back production at its plants. In January Jaguar Land Rover announced it was to make 4,500 job cuts, mainly in the UK, following 1,500 job losses last year. The PSA deal would raise fears of cuts production in the UK and further job losses - a another major blow to Britain's flagging car industry. PSA shares jumped after publication of the documents, before falling back after Tata released its statement, and were down 2.85 percent as of 2.31pm GMT. 'On principle we are open to opportunities that could create long-term value for PSA Group and its shareholders,' said Alain Le Gouguec, a spokesman for the Paris-based manufacturer. PSA is setting new profitability records even as it continues to integrate Opel/Vauxhall, acquired from General Motors in 2017, and has previously signalled openness to further acquisitions. The relative fuel-efficiency of its vehicle technologies is a valuable asset as carmakers battle to meet tougher European emissions targets and avoid huge fines. Jaguar Land Rover has been struggling in recent months, making redundancies across its business and cutting back production at its plants. Pictured, a Jaguar E-Type Series 1 Roadster introduced 1961 - 1998 In 1951 Land Rover was handed a Royal Warrant by King George V11, and over the generations many of the Royals been transported in the vehicles. Pictured, The Queen and Prince Philip in a Land Rover on a Commonwealth visit to Australia, 1954 Jaguar Land Rover has been struggling in recent months, making redundancies across its business and cutting back production at its plants. A Jaguar and Land Rover are pictured at a show in Los Angeles JLR, by contrast, faces one of the toughest challenges to comply with looming carbon dioxide goals - compounded by the uncertainty and disruption of Britain's protracted departure from the European Union. Tata posted a record $4 billion loss for its fiscal third quarter ended Dec. 31, and warned that JLR would swing to an operating loss in the full year to March. A spokesman for PSA- told the Press Association that the firm was in 'no hurry' to make acquisitions and could 'stand alone'. However Pierre-Olivier Salmon added: 'If an opportunity comes, like Opel (Vauxhall), we will consider it.' Jaguar Land Rover became the UK's largest car manufacturer in 2016 but sales have declined precipitously in china in the last year. Sale in China dropped 44 per cent between July and September last year - turning China from its biggest sales market to its smallest. Today Prince Harry beceme the first person to enjoy a sneak-peek at Land Rovers long-awaited next generation Land Rover Defender with Dutch Invictus Games medal winner Jack Pastora Jaguar Land Rover became the UK's largest car manufacturer in 2016 but sales have declined precipitously in china in the last year, previously the firm's biggest market The origins of Jaguar can be traced back to The Swallow Sidecar Company which began making motorcycle sidecars in 1922. The Swallow Sidecar Company moved into car manufacture, and switched its name to Jaguar after the Second World War. Pictured the Jaguar Xj220 The company pointed to a downturn in China as a reason for the job losses and lower demand for the diesels which make up most of its products. In the UK, 'continuing uncertainty related to Brexit' was blamed. In February, it revealed a hefty quarterly loss of 273m in the three months to December 31, 2018. PSA, meanwhile, has been flourishing since it bought Vauxhall-Opel in 2017. It has returned the struggling brand to profit in less than two years and is cash-rich with revenue up 18.9 per cent in 2018 to 63.7m. PSA chairman Carlos Tavares has made no secret of his desire to acquire the UK-based luxury car manufacturer. Jaguar Land Rover pointed to a downturn in China as a reason for the job losses and lower demand for the diesels which make up most of its products. Picture shows a Range Rover Jaguar and Land Rover Special VIP Preview, Los Angeles During an interview with Autocar India in April, he said he believed it would be good for PSA to have a luxury brand and that the company was 'considering all opportunities'. Sources inside JLR have told the Press Association that despite public statements downplaying the prospects of a tie-up, 'things are moving quickly behind closed doors'. One insider, who has seen the integration paperwork, said: 'To have a document like this in circulation at the two firms points to the fact things are very far down the line with either a sale or acquisition. 'Just look at how close the two firms are in the UK - the two head offices in Coventry and Gaydon are just 25 miles apart and both firms make cars in the UK. 'There are plenty of ways the two companies could save money by working together.' Automotive industry expert Professor David Bailey of the Birmingham Business School believes the tie-up could be a good fit for both brands. The Tata Motors owned firm has been a target of PSA, owner of Peugeot, Citroen and Vauxhall, for several months He said: 'PSA said last month it was interested in acquiring JLR but [its owner] Tata publicly ruled out a sale. 'Tata shareholders' patience may be wearing thin, though, given recent JLR losses. A partial sale may be an option. 'I'm sceptical about JLR being able to go it alone bearing in mind the need for very high research and development spend on new technology given that the auto industry will transform itself in the coming years towards connected, autonomous electric cars. 'At some point JLR may have to collaborate with another auto firm. A partial PSA stake might open that up.' In February shares in India's Tata Motors sank by almost 30 percent after problems at Jaguar Land Rover unit dragged the luxury carmaker to India's biggest quarterly loss. It announced a net loss of around 2.9 million for the quarter ending December owing to a $3.9-billion loss on JLR. That compared to a profit of 132,000 loss for the same period a year before. In late April JLR said it will build the next generation of Land Rovers 4x4 Defender in Slovakia rather than Britain. The decision to build the iconic British car abroad was a bitter blow to many. Today Prince Harry became the first person to enjoy a sneak-peek at Land Rovers long-awaited next generation Land Rover Defender in the Netherlands. President Trump called for former secretary of state John Kerry's prosecution on Wednesday for violating a law that prohibits American citizens from meddling in foreign affairs. 'John Kerry violated the Logan Act,' Trump said in rant tied to the Iran nuclear deal. 'He's talking to Iran and has has many meetings and many phone calls and he's telling them what to do. That is total violation of the Logan Act.' Trump has accused Kerry of violating the once-obscure law several times over the Obama-era official's contact with Tehran. A Kerry spokesman said Wednesday that Trump is 'wrong' on the law and the facts, however. President Trump called for former secretary of state John Kerry's prosecution on Wednesday for violating a law that prohibits American citizens from meddling in foreign affairs 'Everything President Trump said today is simply wrong, end of story. He's wrong about the facts, wrong about the law, and sadly he's been wrong about how to use diplomacy to keep America safe,' spokesman Matt Summers told Politico. At issue are Kerry's meetings with Iranian Foreign Minister Javad Zarif, whom he persuaded in 2015 to sign on to an international agreement regulating Iran's nuclear activities. Trump believes that Kerry failed as a negotiator has repeatedly mocked him for a bike accident in France that he had during earlier talks with Iran. He accused him in May of 2018 of engaging in 'shadow diplomacy' following reports that the Obama administration official met secretly with foreign governments. 'The United States does not need John Kerry's possibly illegal Shadow Diplomacy on the very badly negotiated Iran Deal,' the president said. 'He was the one that created this MESS in the first place!' He said Kerry was wrong to huddle with dignitaries, including the foreign minister of Iran and heads of France and Germany, as Trump prepared to pull the U.S. out of the deal. 'John Kerry can't get over the fact that he had his chance and blew it! Stay away from negotiations John, you are hurting your country!' Trump said. He's accused Kerry of violating the Logan Act, which criminalized negotiations with foreign dignitaries without authorization, in April and again on Thursday. 'Iran is being given VERY BAD advice by @JohnKerry and people who helped him lead the U.S. into the very bad Iran Nuclear Deal,' he said. 'Big violation of Logan Act?' Trump appears to have taken the idea for prosecuting Kerry from Alan Dershowitz, an emeritus professor at Harvard and talking head on television. Dershowitz claimed last May on Fox News that Kerry was in violation of the 200-year-old law that made it a felony to negotiate with foreign dignitaries without authorization. He said it's a dead letter law 'but if it were in existence, my friend John Kerry would be violating the Logan Act' because he is negotiating as if he were in the administration. 'And there are real problems with doing that,' he said. The deal was on the brink of falling apart this week, after Tehran threatened to violate some provisions over Washington's decision to resume its sanctions. Trump ended U.S. involvement in the deal and moved to clamp down on sanctions at the end of last year. Europe and Russia remain party to the agreement that will be rendered null if Iran breaks its promises. Kerry has worked to save the deal against the wishes of the Trump administration, which hit him for 'beyond inappropriate' meetings with Zarif. The U.S. put new sanctions on Iran's metal industry, targeting its iron, steel, aluminum and copper sectors, after Tehran said it would stop abiding by certain aspects of an international nuclear agreement. Trump stoked fears that he was on the war path with Tehran on Sunday when he sent an aircraft carrier strike group to the region on Sunday evening. USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) transits the Strait of Gibraltar, entering the Mediterranean Sea as it continues operations in the 6th Fleet area of responsibility in this April 13, 2019 photo supplied by the U.S. Navy White House National Security Advisor John Bolton cited 'troubling and escalatory indications and warnings' but declined to say what those were. Acting Defense Secretary Patrick Shanahan also referred to a 'credible threat' from Iran that he didn't describe. White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders said Wednesday that the U.S. is not 'looking' to go to war with Iran, after it dispatched military assets to the region. 'I certainly hope not, but the president is going to remain firm on our position and I don't think anybody is looking for any type of war with anybody,' she said. Iranian President Hassan Rouhani meanwhile said Iran would start keeping its enriched uranium and heavy water, in violation of the deal. If a 60-day period passes and Europe and Russia do not agree to more favorable terms to Iran, Rouhani said the nation would enrich even greater amounts of uranium. Tehran said the UK, France, Germany, China and Russia must help the nation get around sanctions the U.S. snapped back on in November for it to stay in the deal that Trump left. Russia immediately sided with Iran, warning Washington against 'ill-advised' actions the Kremlin says will be met with consequences. Britain subsequently warned of their own set of 'consequences' if Iran veers from its commitment to the rest of the global community not to increase uranium enrichment. U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, who was on travel in London at the time, said he was taking a wait and see approach to Rouhani's demands. 'We'll have to wait to see what Iran's actions actually are. They've made a number of statements about actions they threatened to do in order to get the world to jump. We'll see what they actually do,' he said. 'Obviously we've made a decision different than the United Kingdom has with respect to the JCPOA.' Tension over the nuclear agreement resurfaced after the U.S. said it was sending the USS Abraham Lincoln to the Middle East. The White House seemed to be leading the charge, although officials there and at the State Department directed questions about the measures to the Defense Department. Trump says Kerry ran afoul of the Logan Act, a federal law that made it a felony for civilians to conduct foreign policy without authorization. Kerry is seen conferring with the Iranian foreign minister in 2015 when he was secretary of state It was Bolton who announced the deployment, saying in a Sunday evening statement: 'In response to a number of troubling and escalatory indications and warnings, the United States is deploying the USS Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group and a bomber task force to the U.S. Central Command region to send a clear and unmistakable message to the Iranian regime that any attack on United States interests or on those of our allies will be met with unrelenting force. The United States is not seeking war with the Iranian regime, but we are fully prepared to respond to any attack, whether by proxy, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, or regular Iranian forces,' he concluded. Shanahan confirmed in a Monday tweet that forces had been deployed. He said in a tweet that the act 'represents a prudent repositioning of assets in response to indications of a credible threat by Iranian regime forces.' House Intelligence Chairman Adam Schiff, a California Democrat, later accused the Trump administration of escalating the conflict with Iran. Schiff said, 'It is precisely because of my belief that we must contain Iranian influence that we must resist any actions that undermine our efforts or weaken the support we need from our allies to confront Iran.' Massive swarms of lovebugs are turning Florida's skies black as they descend upon the Sunshine State to mate. Locals are calling it the worst invasion ever. Despite their cute name, which comes from the insects flying around in mating pairs, they are a nuisance pest for residents. Scroll down for video Millions of lovebugs are invading Florida. The insects are attracted to the heat of highways and splatter their guts and eggs on windshields and bonnets Lovebugs are from the same family as flies and live just three or four days. They are an invasive species in Florida 'Instead of Alfred Hitchcocks The Birds, its the lovebugs,' Okeechobee County resident Katrina Sheffield told WPTV. 'They are absolutely everywhere. Its horrendous.' While they are around all year, the pesky bugs usually live underground and only form their dreaded swarms during their mating season in May and again in September. Attracted by the heat of asphalt and vehicle fumes on highways, the swarms madden motorists as their guts and eggs splatter on windshields and hoods. They often fly into joggers' mouths, get caught in people's hair and force outdoor restaurants to close. Their carcasses speckle homes, businesses and sidewalks. Such a nuisance: Lovebug carcasses can clog up radiators and cause vehicles to overheat The pesky bugs usually live underground and only form their dreaded swarms during their mating season in May and September Across social media, Florida residents are complaining that the invasion is particularly bad this year Social media users in Florida are calling the plague of bugs 'extra annoying' this year. Norman Leppla, an entomologist at the University of Florida, agreed that this year is particularly bad, but said swarms were much worse in the 1970s. 'It seems that there are more lovebugs than last year but not nearly the number we have seen in decades past,' he told TCPalm. Lovebugs are an invasive species that first showed up in Florida from Central America in 1949, according to the University of Florida. They feel at home in the state's warm, moist climate. The insects are from the same family as flies and although they are a nuisance, they do not bite or sting and live only up to four days. The university disputes the urban myth that its researchers first brought the bugs to Florida and they escaped. It seems that Hillary Clinton may have unknowingly played a large role in the racketeering charges that Nxivm founder Keith Raniere is currently facing in court. Court documents filed by the US Attorney's office prior to the trail detail how multiple members of he cult - including all five of the defendants who were indicted in the case - exceeded the legal limit for campaign donations when giving money to Clinton's first campaign for president. That motion, which sought to have evidence admitted to the case to support the racketeering allegations against the defendants, said that the funds were donated in hope of gaining influence over Clinton. This plan hit an unexpected snag however when Clinton failed to even make it past the primary, with the former senator's momentum halted by the man who would go on to win the presidency, Barack Obama. Scroll down for video Above the law: Nxivm members exceeded campaign donation limits back in 2007 when they gave thousands to Hillary Clinton (above in April) according to a court filing Deep pockets: Raniere and his co-defendants reportedly gave money that was reimbursed by Nancy Salzman (left) and Clare Bronfman (right) 'Witness testimony, corroborated by documentary evidence, will demonstrate that at least 14 members of the Nxivm community, including at least five defendants and co-conspirators, made the maximum campaign donation to a primary campaign with the understanding that they would be reimbursed by Bronfman or Nancy Salzman,' reads the filing. 'At the suggestion of a political operative, who has since pleaded guilty to an unrelated New York state bribery charge also involving campaign contributions, the contributions were bundled and presented to the candidate at a fundraising event attended by conspirators, including Nancy Salzman.' The document goes on to state: 'A cooperating witness who attended the event will testify that the defendants and their co-conspirators made the contributions in hopes of obtaining political influence to advance their own agenda, including targeting perceived enemies of Raniere.' Clinton was just one of the many Democratic candidates who Nxivm members donated too, with DailyMail.com learning that the list also included Al Franken, Claire McKaskill, Ken Salazar and Tammy Duckworth. Records obtained by DailyMail.com show that the group gave $10,000 to the Democratic Committee of South Carolina as well at a time when Hillary needed a crucial win in the primary. It is a damning allegation, but one that may not come up now that only Raniere is standing trial, with his co-defendants all entering guilty pleas in exchange for deals with prosecutors. 'Specifically, the bundled campaign contributions were part of an attempt to curry favor with a presidential nominee to advance the goals of the defendants and co-conspirators, including by obtaining indictments against enemies and gaining advantages in litigation,' stated the US Attorney's office in the filing. 'The evidence of the conduit contributions also demonstrates the relatedness of the predicate acts, because it demonstrates the attitude of defendants and co-conspirators that they must cheat to win to fight the conspiracy they believed was operating against them. A Kenyan court on Thursday sentenced British terror suspect Jermaine Grant to four years prison for possessing bomb-making materials, charges the accused extremist has long denied. Grant, who is accused by Kenyan authorities of ties to East Africa militant group Al-Shabaab, is already serving a separate nine-year sentence on forgery charges. The Muslim convert was arrested in Mombasa in December 2011 by police who allegedly found chemicals, batteries and switches in his possession. Jermaine Grant (centre) leaves after the court sentenced four years for possessing bomb-making materials at the court in Mombasa Grant sitting in court on Thursday. He was said to have been planning a bombing campaign against hotels popular with foreign tourists Police said Grant was planning a bombing campaign against hotels popular with foreign tourists. He denied the charges but was found guilty on April 24 by Chief Magistrate Evans Makori, who said there was sufficient evidence that Grant was in possession of the explosive materials. Grant was sentenced in December 2015 to nine years in jail on separate charges related to forgery. He had earlier plead guilty to being in the country illegally and lying about his nationality. Prosecutors in Kenya had accused Grant of working with fellow Briton Samantha Lewthwaite, dubbed the 'White Widow' by the British tabloid press. Lewthwaite is the widow of Germaine Lindsay, one of four radical Islamist suicide bombers who attacked the London transport network on July 7, 2005, killing 52 people. Grant was said to have worked with fellow Briton Samantha Lewthwaite, dubbed the 'White Widow' Grant denied the charges but was found guilty on April 24 after the judge found was sufficient evidence that Grant was in possession of the explosive materials Despite repeated rumours there has been no confirmed sighting of her since she gave Kenyan police the slip in Mombasa in 2011. Grant is believed to have become radicalised as a teenager in the same British prison where 'shoe bomber' Richard Reid first turned to Islam. Reid, who claimed he was an Al-Qaeda recruit, is serving a life sentence in the United States for trying to blow up a flight from Paris to Miami in December 2001. Al-Qaeda-linked Al-Shabaab has been waging an insurgency against Somalia's foreign-backed government for over a decade. While it has lost some ground, the group continues to stage deadly attacks. In late 2018, the US military estimated there were between 3,000 to 7,000 Shabaab fighters in Somalia. Steven Rossi aka 'Mr Knick Knack' was hit with child porn charges last week in Virginia A children's entertainer who performs under the stage name 'Mr Knick Knack' has been arrested on child pornography charges. Steven Rossi, 58, was arrested on April 30 in Reston, Virginia and charged with 10 counts of possessing child pornography, after police acting on a tip said they found numerous files of illicit images. The Fairfax County Police said they have uncovered no evidence that Rossi had contact with the children in the images, but are actively investigating whether he had ever acted inappropriately with children during performances. Rossi has performed in northern Virginia and the Washington DC area since the late 1990s, including hundreds of children's birthday parties and regular gigs at at Tysons Corner Center, Reston Town Center, and Market Common Clarendon. Rossi, a popular children's entertainer in northern Virginia and the DC area, was charged with 10 counts of possession of child porn Rossi is seen meeting young fans. Police say they are investigating whether he had any inappropriate contact with children but so far no charges of the kind have been filed Rossi's promotional material claims that he has 'has performed on separate private occasions for two vice presidents of the United States, one U.S. Senate majority leader, an ambassador to the United States from the Middle East' as well as 'the president of the oldest Jesuit and Catholic university in the United States.' It is unclear which officials he was referring to, as Rossi's career has spanned four presidential administrations. Rossi, who sings and plays acoustic guitar, has a repertoire of original songs geared toward children younger than six. His crowd favorites include 'I Love What I Love', 'Inside Me', 'An Even Bigger Secret', and 'My Mommy's Coming'. The entertainer had previously worked in a number of different fields, including a stint in the Army, before getting his break as a children's performer, according to a 2013 Washington Post profile. He was working at a Borders bookstore in Tysons when a co-worker who led a children's story hour quit, and he picked up the mantle by introducing songs into the weekly story hour. Rossi got his start at the storytelling hour of a Borders books where he worked in 1998. His musical routine was soon drawing crowds and lucrative bookings for children's events Rossi's original songs include such numbers as 'I Love What I Love', 'Inside Me', 'An Even Bigger Secret', and 'My Mommy's Coming' Soon, he was drawing huge crowds of young children to the Borders, and began to get invitations to work at birthday parties and other children's events. By 2005, he had a weekly residency at hip Vienna coffeehouse Jammin' Java, which the Post described thus: 'No gimmicks. No costumes. With just a silly name and a genuine desire to perform, Mr Knick Knack takes the stage with his guitar, and the kids go wild. 'There is screaming and yelling and cheering. They love Mr Knick Knack. And, as it seems to several mothers sitting in the audience, he loves them, too.' His debut album, 'Rocket Ride To The Little House', dropped in late 2013. Rossi was released from the Fairfax County Jail after posting a $50,000 bail on May 2, and he is next due in court on June 11. He did not immediately respond to a voicemail message from DailyMail.com. Alleged serial rapist Joseph McCann was visited by a senior judge in jail after he refused to appear in court for a second day. In an unprecedented move, Chief Magistrate Emma Arbuthnot conducted a hearing at Belmarsh prison, in south-east London, after the 34-year-old refused to leave the cells. McCann, from Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, is charged with 21 offences against eight alleged victims, aged between 11 and 71. He is alleged to have carried out the series of sexual assaults in Cheshire, Manchester, Lancashire, London and Hertfordshire between 21 April and 5 May. McCann was arrested following a nationwide manhunt on Monday after a standoff between police just outside the Cheshire town of Congleton where he was found up a tree. In an unprecedented move, Chief Magistrate Emma Arbuthnot (pictured right) conducted a hearing at Belmarsh prison, in south-east London, after alleged rapist Joseph McCann (left) refused to leave the cells. McCann refused to leave the cells at Westminster Magistrates' Court on Wednesday and today, Prosecutor Tetteh Turkson told the court that McCann was again 'not being co-operative'. Ms Arbuthnot, also a senior district judge, tried to get him in front of a video link from the jail yesterday morning. But he again refused. By the afternoon, the judge said she was getting in a taxi to the prison and advised the prosecution, the defence and police officers and court staff, to do the same. The court crest was brought in an Argos carrier bag and placed on the conference table before Ms Arbuthnot told reporters: 'I will be going into Belmarsh prison to see the defendant, Mr McCann. 'I will be accompanied by the prosecutor, defence counsel and obviously the clerk. 'We will then have a hearing in there, which will be a private hearing, not in the presence of the press.' As such, Ms Arbuthnot convened a private hearing inside Belmarsh prison, which the press were not allowed to attend. Outside she told reporters the 'shortish hearing' had been held in the prison's healthcare wing, after walking into the jail an hour and 20 minutes earlier. Prosecutor Tetteh Turkson told the court that McCann was 'not being co-operative' and Ms Arbuthnot convened a private hearing inside Belmarsh prison (pictured) instead McCann, from Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, is charged with 21 offences against eight alleged victims, aged between 11 and 71 McCann refused to confirm his name, did not stand and at one point turned his back to the hearing, it was recounted. He is said to have told the judge: 'You guys arent dealing with me properly, you arent following procedure. I dont want to deal with you'. Ms Arbuthnot said McCann 'turned his back on the court to begin with' and claimed the 'officers stitched me up' before she remanded him in custody until a hearing at the Old Bailey on May 23. The hearing was told McCann was aware of the charges against him. They are eight counts of rape; four counts of kidnap; two counts of false imprisonment; two counts of engaging in non-penetrative sexual activity; and two counts of sexual assault by penetration. McCann was ordered to appear at Westminster Magistrates' Court on Thursday He is further charged with one count of inciting a boy under the age of 13 to engage in sexual activity; one count of engaging in non-penetrative sexual activity with a girl aged 13 to 15; and one count of assault occasioning actual bodily harm. During one alleged incident, McCann is said to have tied a woman up in her own home and committed sexual offences, including rape, against her 17-year-old daughter and son, 11. McCann was arrested in the early hours of Monday morning, just over two weeks after he is alleged to have abducted a woman in her twenties in Watford before raping her in her home. Two other women, who are in their twenties, were allegedly separately snatched off the street in Chingford and Edgware, London, on April 25 before being raped in a car. A string of other alleged offences are said to have occurred in Lancashire and Greater Manchester on May 5, including the rape of a 71-year-old woman and the sexual assault of a 13-year-old girl. McCann is yet to enter pleas to any of the charges, which were outlined to reporters following what is believed to be the first time such a magistrates' court hearing has been convened inside a prison. A legal precedent was set in 2015 when the High Court ruled the late peer Lord Janner had to appear at a magistrates court before historic sex abuse charges against him were read out despite suffering from dementia. Hence why cases cannot be sent from a magistrates to a crown court without the defendant appearing either in person or via video link. Maleah Davis' stepfather and mother are banned from having contact with their children as the car used in the abduction is found in the parking lot of a Texas shopping center. The court order was issued against Darion Vence and Brittany Bowens shortly after the car was found at a shopping center in Missouri City, Texas, off Highway 6. Vence claimed that the car was stolen by Maleah's 'kidnappers' Friday night as they were on their way to pick up the four-year-old's mother. Investigators said a woman spotted the gray Nissan Altima in the parking lot and reported it to police, Houston police Detective Kenneth Fregia said during a news conference. Maleah Davis' stepfather, Darion Vence (left) and mother, Brittany Bowens (right), are banned from having contact with any of their children as the car used in the abduction is found in a parking lot of a Texas mall The court order was issued against Vence and Bowens shortly after the car (pictured) was found at a shopping center in Missouri City, Texas, off Highway 6 Maleah Davis has been missing since Friday when her stepfather, Vence, claimed they were attacked in his car. Vence claimed that the car was stolen by Maleah's 'kidnappers' Friday night as they were on their way to pick up the four-year-old's mother He said the car was found unlocked and didn't appear to be damaged, and that detectives would go over it 'with a fine-toothed comb'. Bowens was at the scene as police conducted an initial search of the car. She was seen crying and hitting her hands against the ground. Police say Vence, told investigators that he was driving the car to the airport to pick up the girl's mother Friday night when he pulled over to check if it had a flat tire. Vence claimed that three men in a pickup truck pulled up, knocked him out and abducted him, Maleah and his one-year-old son before eventually allowing him and the boy to go free. Authorities said Vence reported the abduction at a hospital on Saturday night and explained that he had been in and out of consciousness over the previous 24 hours. The car's tires appeared to be fine and police are searching for security footage that might show when and how it arrived in the lot, Fregia said. Vence claimed that three men in a blue pickup truck pulled up, knocked him out and abducted him, Maleah (left) and his one-year-old son (center) before eventually allowing him and the boy to go free Vence initially reported his stepdaughter missing after he showed up Saturday at a hospital in Sugar Land, which is next to Missouri City. He told police he had walked there after coming to a highway that runs through the region. However, a Sugar Land police spokesman said Vence's 'story changed several times'. Authorities have not said how his story changed from his initial one on Saturday. 'During our initial interview that he provided, his story changed several times, some of what he described didn't add up,' Doug Adolph, the spokesman for the Sugar Land Police Department, told DailyMail.com on Wednesday. Vence, 26, told authorities that three Hispanic men had abducted him, Maleah and his one-year-old son. He had visible injuries and officers say 'something clearly happened to him'. According to Vence, he was driving with Maleah and his son in his car on Friday to pick up Bowens from the airport when he heard a noise and pulled over. Last year, Maleah was removed from her family home along with her two brothers over allegations that she had been abused. She had suffered a head injury and was sent to live with a relative for six months but in February this year, was allowed to return home to her mother Maleah Davis' biological father, Craig Davis (pictured), is demanding answers from the four-year-old's stepdad, Darion Vence, after police said Vence has changed his story multiple times in the hours after he reported the four-year-old missing The hunt for Maleah continues as members of Texas EquuSearch conduct a search for the four-year-old Out of nowhere, he said three Hispanic males appeared, said that Maleah looked 'nice' and then hit Vence over the head, knocking him unconscious. He claims that for the next 24 hours, he slipped in and out of consciousness while they drove the three of them around. Vence said he woke up on the side of the road around 6pm Saturday evening next to his son but with no sign of Maleah. Fregia said Vence hasn't spoken with investigators since Saturday and that he'd 'like to talk' with Vence. Authorities said they cannot find Vence but they aren't concerned about his whereabouts. He declined to call Vence a person of interest in the case. Vence has not been arrested. Last year, Maleah was removed from her family home along with her two brothers over allegations that she had been abused, according to CNN. Maleah had suffered a head injury and was sent to live with a relative for six months but in February this year, was allowed to return home to her mother but she was back in the hospital for brain surgery in March. Police say it was to treat a healing injury and that they cannot share more information. Child services were meant to check up on the family once a month afterwards. It is unclear if that was done. Bowens, insisted on Monday that she hurt her head by falling. She says she had been on a trip to Massachusetts when her child disappeared, though it remains unclear what the journey was for. Maleah's biological father also demanded answers about his daughter's disappearance this week. Craig Davis, Maleah's father, said Tuesday that he's 'not putting the blame on anybody'. 'I just need the questions that aren't answered to be answered. There are so many unanswered questions. 'It's not for the police to answer them for me. It's not for the news to answer them for me. It's for Darion to answer for me,' Davis told ABC 13. The hunt for Maleah continues and anyone with information on her whereabouts is urged to contact HPD at 713-308-3600 or Crime Stoppers at 713-222-TIPS. California authorities have detained two women who allegedly led them on a wild police chase after stealing perfume from an area beauty store - and then used lingerie to cover up their license plate to stop them being identified. Shamajai Jack, 19, and Akaile Elder, 18, were charged with strong armed robbery, conspiracy, evading and resisting arrest, Napa Police Department spokesperson Sgt. Todd Shulman explained to KPIX. Napa police say the two women - who are both from Fairfield - stole nearly $4000 in perfume from an area Ulta Beauty on Tuesday. Napa police arrested two women who used lingerie to hide their license plates while leading authorities on a chase The pair stole nearly $4000 in perfume from an area Ulta Beauty on Tuesday 'They cleared out several shelves of high end perfumes,' Shulman added. Staff tried to stop the duo but told authorities that they stepped back out of fear for their own safety. Shulman said: 'The suspects physically confronted the employees who tried to prevent them from leaving, and that's why they are charged with strong armed robbery.' Shamajai Jack, 19, and Akaile Elder, 18, were charged with strong armed robbery, conspiracy, evading and resisting arrest Undercover cops then saw the pair driving on Highway 29 in a car that had lingerie covering the rear license plates. 'The license plate was likely covered in an attempt to hide the markings from police,' Shulman explained. The American Canyon Police Department followed the car, which sped off but failed jumping over railroad tracks. 'Their vehicle was disabled all four tires were flattened because they tried to drive over the tracks,' Shulman said. The American Canyon Police Department followed the car, which sped off and failed jumping over railroad tracks Jack's Facebook includes a photo of her appearing to wear the very top she used to allegedly cover the vehicle 'The suspects did not know they had turned onto a street that dead-ended into the tracks.' Police recovered all the stolen property from the car. They are trying to determine if the two suspects have been involved in other incidents around the area. 'It's believed that these two suspects might be connected to other crimes in other jurisdictions,' said the police chief. Jack's Facebook includes a photo of her wearing the very lacy blouse she used to allegedly cover the vehicle. Swedish prosecutors will announce next week whether they will reopen an investigation into a rape allegation against Julian Assange. Prosecutors dropped the rape investigation in 2017 because they were unable to proceed while the WikiLeaks founder remained living in the Ecuadorean embassy in London. Assange also faced investigation for a second sex-related allegation, which was dropped in 2015 because time had run out. He denied both allegations. Swedish prosecutors will announce next week whether they will reopen an investigation into a rape allegation against Julian Assange - an allegation he denies (pictured: Assange on April 11) After he was dragged out of the embassy last month, a lawyer for one of the women involved asked for the investigation to be resumed. The alleged victim's lawyer, Elisabeth Massi Fritz, has said her client was waiting for his eviction from the embassy, where he had been holed-up for seven years. She had said in a press statement: 'What we have been waiting for and hoping for almost seven years now, of course, comes as a shock to my client. 'We will do everything we can to ensure that the prosecutors resume the Swedish preliminary investigation so that Assange can be extradited to Sweden and prosecuted for rape.' The lawyer acting for the woman accusing the WikiLeaks founder of rape (left) has been pushing to reopen the case with Swedish prosecutors. The allegations by the woman who said she was sexually assaulted (right) by Assange were dropped in 2017 Julian Assange pictured as he is led out of the Ecuadorian Embassy in London in handcuffs following his arrest by British police last month A year into his time at the embassy, Assange told journalists he would not leave even if the sex charges against him were dropped, due to fears he would be extradited to the US for questioning over the activities of WikiLeaks. Deputy director of public prosecutions Eva-Marie Persson will hold a press conference in Stockholm on Monday to announce her decision. A United Nations official visited Assange on Thursday to assess his treatment in the high security prison where he is being held after being sentenced to 50 weeks for a bail violation. Pamela Anderson visits WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange at Belmarsh Prison in south-east London, May 7 Professor Nils Melzer, the UN's Special Rapporteur on Torture, went to Belmarsh prison in south London, and will have meetings on Friday with relevant authorities. UN human rights experts have already voiced concern about the 'disproportionate' sentence given to Assange, as well as his detention in the high-security prison. The UN Working Group on Arbitrary Detention said it was 'deeply concerned' about the 'disproportionate' sentence imposed on Assange for a bail violation. He is now wanted for questioning in the United States over the activities of WikiLeaks. A New York cardiologist who was accused of masterminding the murder of his mistress' baby after she became pregnant by another man appeared stone-faced in court Thursday. Dr. Vignendra Ariyarajah looked grim as he walked into Brooklyn Supreme Court on Thursday with his face downcast. The married Harvard-trained doctor has been charged with criminally negligent homicide, manslaughter, assault, reckless endangerment, unlawful imprisonment and endangering the welfare of a child in the grisly case. He's accused of hiring two people to hold his mistress Paul Marie Raymond, 30, against her will in her Brooklyn home in 2016 and torture her for days while she was seven months pregnant. He appeared in court for a status hearing in the case, flanked by his attorneys, who have maintained his innocence. Dr Vignendra Ariyarajah looked serious and grim as he appeared in Brooklyn Supreme Court for a status hearing on Thursday Dressed in a brown suit and pink button down shirt and tie he kept his eyes glued to the ground as he followed his attorneys through the courthouse The married Harvard-trained doctor has been charged with criminally negligent homicide, manslaughter, and assault in death of his mistress Paul Marie Raymond's child Pictured above entering court for the status hearing 'Dr. Ariyarajah maintains his innocence in this matter. We look forward to a trial where we are confident Dr. Ariyarajah will be fully vindicated and his outstanding reputation will be restored,' his attorney Matthew D. Myers tells DailyMail.com. Ariyarajah was arrested on February 11 and charged after one of his co-conspirators began cooperating with authorities. He's accused of hiring two people to trap his pregnant mistress Paul Marie Raymond, 30, (above) and induce her into labor to kill her child, because she got pregnant by a different man In March he pleaded not guilty. He was released free on bail but was fitted with an ankle bracelet as a part of his $750,000 bail package and continued to see patients. In late March the state Health department ordered him to stop practicing medicine as he awaits trial. Paul Marie Raymond was starved, fed little water, and given drugs fentanyl and PCP to induce birth and kill her child in the twisted plot, allegedly devised by Ariyarajah. The co-conspirators, a man and a woman, allegedly starved Raymond and gave her water only through a syringe on Ariyarajah's instructions. Sources said they induced Raymond, who was seven-and-a-half months pregnant, with fentanyl and PCP in their efforts to kill the baby boy. Meanwhile, Ariyarajah and his wife were on a ski vacation in Montana, according to the New York Post. Raymond suffered through a prolonged labor for four days before the baby was born alive on December 24, 2016. His face was downcast and his hands tucked behind his back as he left court 'Dr. Ariyarajah maintains his innocence in this matter,' his attorney Matthew Myers said In March he pleaded not guilty and was released free on bail but was fitted with an ankle bracelet as a part of his $750,000 bail package In late March the state Health department ordered him to stop practicing medicine as he awaits trial. The boy died hours later of an infection and lack of medical intervention, according to the autopsy report. Ariyarajah allegedly hired two people to trap his mistress Paul Marie Raymond, 30, and torture her for days. Ariyarajah and Raymond, who met at work, are pictured here in an undated photo The child tested positive for both fentanyl and PCP. Authorities believe that Ariyarajah was in contact with his co-conspirators throughout the horrific ordeal and instructed them to administer the drugs. He also allegedly told the pair not to give Raymond 'any food and to only administer juice or water through a syringe'. On the night before her child died, Raymond briefly managed to flee the apartment. Raymond had chemical burns to her face and torn-off fingernails. There were also marks to her arms and legs suggesting she had been bound by a kind of rope or cord. Authorities said that Ariyarajah, who was born in Malayasia and completed a fellowship at Harvard, first met Raymond when she began working for him at a MedCare Consultant Multi-Specialty Clinic. The cardiologist, who supported Raymond financially, was allegedly very controlling. When she left and became pregnant by another man, Ariyarajah pressured her to leave him, a law enforcement source told the Post. His lawyer claims that the surgeon never had a romantic relationship with Raymond. Ariyarajah and his wife were on a ski vacation in Montana while his mistress was attacked, according to law enforcement sources. Pictured above at a prior court date Authorities said Ariyarajah, who was born in Malayasia and completed a fellowship at Harvard, first met Raymond when she began working for him at a MedCare Consultant Multi-Specialty Clinic in New York An unrecognizable Sienna Miller will be playing very much against type in her next project, taking on the role of a dowdy, middle-aged America in the Showtime series The Loudest Voice in the room. The British beauty, 37, stars in the film as Elizabeth Ailes, the wife of Fox News CEO Roger Ailes, who is played by Russell Crowe. A new trailer for the series was released on Friday which showcased more of Miller's work on the series, in which she stars alongside Crowe, Naomi Watts as Gretchen Carlson, Seth McFarlane as Brian Lewis, Annabelle Wallis as Laurie Luhn and Simon McBurney as Rupert Murdoch. Scroll down for video Olfactory girl: Sienna Miller (left) stars as Elizabeth Ailes (right) in the upcoming Showtimes series The Loudest Voice in the Room New look: In the new trailer that was released on Friday the British beauty disappears into her role, looking just like the middle-aged Elizabeth (above with Russell Crowe as Roger Ailes) A-list: Se stars alongside Russell Crowe, Naomi Watts as Gretchen Carlson, Seth McFarlane as Brian Lewis, Annabelle Wallis as Laurie Luhn Viewers expecting to see Megyn Kelly in the Showtime series will sadly be out of luck according to show runner Alex Metcalf. He revealed in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter that the disgraced television host is not a key player in the show, because the writers deemed her irrelevant to Ailes fall from grace. And it was also revealed by members of the cast and crew that the show already has two very unlikely supporters - Lachlan and James Murdoch. The series will launch just before an upcoming film version of the same events, in which John Lithgow plays Ailes and Watts' best friend Nicole Kidman will take on the role of Carlson. Charlize Theron rounds out the cast as Megyn Kelly, a decision that some on the Showtime series scoffed at in interviews. 'I'm not trying to trash-talk the movie, but it seems to be predicated on the idea that there was this coterie of women who brought down Roger Ailes, which is a lie,' said Metcalf. 'There was Gretchen Carlson, and that was it.' The Ailes on New Year's Eve 2015 (above) He then adds: 'I'm sure the movie will be lovely [but] we are doing our best to reflect a reality.' The miniseries will detail not only the sexual harassment and assault allegations that led to Ailes being ousted from the company, but also detail just how much power he commanded at the height of his reign. 'Roger's one of those larger-than-life American figures who has so profoundly influenced our country in ways that most people don't understand,' explained Metcalf. 'Without Roger Ailes, there may be no tea party. And without Roger Ailes, there is definitely no Donald Trump.' In the role of Ailes, Crowe is completely transformed thanks to hours spent in a makeup chair, where the Oscar winner was covered in prosthetics every day of the shoot. MacFarlane was an unexpected addition to the cast given his comedic chops, and will be tackling his first major role in a prestige project. Plumped: In the role of Ailes, Crowe (left with Simon McBurney as Rupert Murdoch on right) is completely transformed thanks to hours spent in a makeup chair, Prey: The serie will launch on June 30, just before a film version of the same events, in which John Lithgow plays Ailes and Watts' best friend Nicole Kidman is Carlson (Crowe and Watts above ) New gig: Setha MacFarlane (above) was an unexpected addition to the cast given his comedic chops, and will be tackling his first major role in a prestige project The funnyman will be playing Brian Lewis, an executive who rose up the ranks over the course of 17 years at Fox News before being suddenly fired in 2013 for reasons that were a bit unclear at the time. It was believed that Ailes fired Lewis, the man who served as his spokesperson at the network, because he had been helping Sherman with the book on which this show in now based. Lewis ultimately left the network with an $8 million exit package according to reports. MacFarlane said that he approached Fox Corp. CEO Lachlan Murdoch before taking on the role, and actually got the thumbs up from the chairman's son. 'The Murdoch children are on the right side of history here, instrumental in Ailes' ouster,' said the author of the source material, Gabriel Sherman. 'I don't think they're fighting it.' Crowe, who is friendly with the Murdoch family, had also been sending Lachlan messages through a friend. 'Don't worry, I'll look after you,' said one, while the next message informed Lachlan 'that the guy playing him [Barry Watson] is tall, slim and good-looking.' Crowe opted not to talk with any of the Murdochs while preparing for the film, but did speak to a few people close to the family, most notably Rupert's ex-wife Wendi Deng. He also attempted to speak with Elizabeth Ailes, who did not grant him an interview. Crowe did not wish to speak with Sherman though, saying he instead had to work towards making Ailes a more relatable character. 'He totally challenged my point of view of Roger, and Gabe's point of view of Roger, which was hard for us,' said Metcalf of Crowe's work. 'But, ultimately, really good for the show. It's way deeper and more interesting than it would have been from the slightly more singular point of view that we wrote it from.' Miller said she spoke to friends of Elizabeth, but did not even try to reach out to the woman she was playing on the series. 'There was no need for me to get her involved, knowing that she was so against the idea of this being made,' said Miller. 'I didn't want to rub salt in the wound and as soon as I start worrying about her and her feelings, I can't tell the story we're trying to tell.' A female adult entertainer and her boyfriend filmed a video of themselves having sex in a moving Tesla while it was in self-driving mode with other cars speeding past and have proudly shared it online. Taylor Jackson, 19, who has dubbed herself 'Tesla Taylor,' admitted that the duo knocked the car out of autopilot during their sexual encounter, while other vehicles drove past them. 'I did bump the steering wheel, knocked it out of Autopilot,' she said. 'It was mainly a straight road but it had a lot of traffic. We had a lot of cars driving by us.' The novice adult film entrepreneur later uploaded the video to Pornhub, where it garnered lots of attention. Taylor Jackson, 19 (pictured at the start of the video), who has been dubbed 'Tesla Taylor,' filmed herself having sex with her boyfriend in a moving Tesla with the self-driving function engaged and uploaded it to Pornhub The Los Angeles-based sex worker told Insider that they got the idea to have sex in the moving vehicle and to film it while on a roadtrip. Jackson and her lover apparently weren't injured in the reckless escapade, and survived to broadcast their romp. 'We joked around when we were done and thought that would make a great porno,' she said. 'We looked it up on Pornhub because we thought someone had to have done it and we couldn't find anything.' Jackson then decide she and her man should be the first to publish footage of such a stunt, and uploaded the video to Pornhub. Pornhub made a joke about the video, posting a screengrab of an intimate scene from the recording on April 30 on its Instagram page, with the caption: 'Reporting you to Elon for not having two hands on the wheel with autopilot enabled.' Jackson said she wasn't concerned for their safety while shooting the home video, because she had experience using the self-driving function in a Tesla vehicle before, despite accidents that have occurred while the feature has been in use. Jackson (at left and right) admitted that the reckless duo knocked the car out of autopilot during their sexual encounter, while other vehicles drove past them. Official Tesla policy is that autopilot mode is 'intended for use with a fully attentive driver, who has their hands on the wheel and is prepared to take over at any time' Official Tesla policy is that autopilot mode is 'intended for use with a fully attentive driver, who has their hands on the wheel and is prepared to take over at any time.' Musk has said he thinks the feature will be ready for completely hands-free use, however, by the end of 2019, when he anticipates his cars will be safer at driving themselves than humans are behind the wheel. He said the autopilot function seemed to be improving rapidly. 'I could be wrong, but it appears to be the case that Tesla is vastly ahead of everyone,' Musk said while being interviewed with MIT research scientist Lex Fridman, shared on YouTube on April 12. After the video went live on the site, purveyors of porn went crazy over the clip. 'Holy s***, I made @Tesla the #1 search on Pornhub,' Jackson tweeted on May 2. The adult film star said an encore performance is not out of the question. 'The feedback has been great so far and the comments, for the most part, have been amusing,' Jackson said. 'Looking at it now I feel we could've made it better. Maybe we will make another one.' The sister of murdered journalist Lyra McKee has appealed for her sibling's New IRA killers to hand themselves in to police. Nichola Corner, 44, said her youngest sister 'deserves justice' after being shot while watching disturbances on the Creggan estate in Londonderry, last month. She added that it was a 'terrible irony' that her sister's killers have robbed themselves of the one person who would have tried to help them. Nichola Corner, the sister of murdered journalist Lyra McKee, has appealed for her sibling's New IRA killers to hand themselves in to police Ms Corner told Channel 4 news, today: 'She deserves justice and those people need to really think about handing themselves in. They need to do the right thing. 'None of this will ever bring my sister back to my mum, to me, to my brothers, my sisters, or nieces and nephews. 'And as far as I'm concerned, that is the least that these people can do. And anyone whose helping them or guarding them or protecting them, they need to do the right thing as well.' Dissident republican group the New IRA claimed its members carried out the killing of 29-year-old Ms McKee, and on Thursday four men were arrested by detectives investigating her death. Nichola Corner, 44, said her youngest sister 'deserves justice' after being shot while watching disturbances on the Creggan estate in Londonderry, last month Ms Corner told Channel 4 news, today: 'She deserves justice and those people need to really think about handing themselves in. They need to do the right thing' 'There is a terrible irony in our Lyra's murder because she would have understood these people or tried to, and she would have tried to help them,' Ms Corner said. 'I suppose they robbed themselves of one person who would have wanted to hear their story and would want to help them move forward.' The distraught sibling revealed she still expects her little sister to ring her, adding that 'it doesn't seem real'. 'The other night I was on the mobile phone to my daughter and the house phone rang and I said: "I better go, that will be Aunty Lyra",' Ms Corner said. 'Because I just still expect her to ring me.' 'I still keep expecting her to pop in at any moment,' she said. 'For me and for my mum and other members of our family, for us this isn't real. 'It doesn't seem real. We can't believe that anybody would ever do anything to harm her.' The coffin of murdered journalist Lyra McKee at her funeral in Belfast last month Theresa May, Ireland's Prime Minister Leo Varadkar (right) and Britain's Secretary of State for Northern Ireland Karen Bradley attend the funeral of journalist Lyra McKee Ms Corner delivered a eulogy at her sister's funeral on April 24, which was attended by political leaders. 'When I could feel myself faltering, I could just hear her say, "come on Nic you can do it. Do it for me. Do it for me",' she recounted. 'And when I looked down at her wee coffin, I just took a deep breath, focused myself again on the script, and just promised her that I will do my best.' Ms Corner insisted that her younger sister's death must not be in vain, adding that 'failure isn't an option'. 'The past needs to be put to bed because living in the past there's not going to be a future and we have to have a brighter future for all those wonderful young people in our society who are coming up,' she said. 'Failure isn't an option. We have to make Lyra's legacy not just about the political landscape but about changing society. 'She didn't see labels, she didn't see religion, she didn't see what political party you were part of, because she had friends in them all.' Defence minister Tobias Ellwood broke ranks on Thursday to say he agreed with Donald Trumps top diplomat about the risk Chinese firm Huawei poses to Britain. In a swipe at the Prime Minister, he also threw his weight behind Mike Pompeos comment that the late former PM Margaret Thatcher would have taken a tougher stance on the issue. His comments came after the US Secretary of State flew into Britain and tore into Theresa Mays plan to allow the firm to help build part of the UKs 5G network. Scroll down for video Conservative Party MP Tobias Ellwood agreed with US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on the dangers posed by Huawei He warned such a deal could put the UKs security relationship with America at risk. Mr Ellwood, who worked under Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson who was sacked for leaking details of plans on Huawei, told LBC Radio: Im very concerned. I was with the new Defence Secretary Penny Mordaunt with Sec Pompeo last night and we discussed these issues and others in detail. I would agree with everything that Pompeo has actually said. It is very important we control the sensitive parts of 5G networks. He went on: It is very very important given the fundamental changes to our lifestyles that 5G will bring. With machines being able to talk to machines, artificial intelligence, automation, the ability to press a button on a mobile phone and an automated car turns up. Mr Ellwood also said Margaret Thatcher would have taken a tougher stance on the issue than Mrs May (pictured) The security behind that is absolutely fundamental to our way of life is not to be disrupted. We have to have faith it works. So it so important that the Five Eyes community is able to work together and trust each other. Mr Pompeo had also invoked Margaret Thatcher, saying the Iron Lady would have taken a tougher stance on China. Ask yourself: Would the Iron Lady be silent when China violates the sovereignty of nations through corruption or coercion? Mr Pompeo said at the Centre for Policy Studies, a conservative British think-tank in London. Mr Ellwood added: The words he said, and in arguing, going back to what Margaret Thatcher would have decided, I would agree and I would hope it is exactly what we are going to do. A spokesman for the Prime Minister said: Our clear existing position that if national security concerns arise with any foreign investment or procurement, the government will assess the risks and consider what course of action to take. He said the UK had a strong relationship with China, adding: But there are several areas where we have expressed our concerns about Chinas behaviour and that includes significant and widespread cyber intrusions against the UK and our allies. Two Florida high schools are having to discipline students who took their senior pranks too far - with one set of students even emailing parents about a 'mandatory penis inspection.' Senior students from Labelle Senior High School hacked their way onto the schools memo and emailed faculty, staff and students about a 'Mandatory Penis Inspection.' The email claimed that the inspection was in 'accordance with Florida Penal Health Code 69.' It stated that students who did not pass inspection could not graduate. Scroll down for video Students from Labelle Senior High School hacked onto the schools memo and emailed faculty, staff and students about a 'Mandatory Penis Inspection' The school's Dean of Students did send an email apologizing for the prank and shared that the school is still investigating how the students were able to pull off the prank 'It was something funny, but at the same time it was something scary,' parent Kenneth Carrion explained to Fox 4. 'You get some high schooler hacking into the system, think about it, what are we doing wrong for security?' The school's Dean of Students has sent an email apologizing for the prank and shared that the school is still investigating how the students were able to get on the server. At nearby Clewiston High School, 37 students were said to have spray-painted sidewalks and buildings while also destroying curtains in the school's auditorium. At nearby Clewiston High School, 37 students were said to have spray-painted sidewalks and buildings while also destroying curtains in the school's auditorium They caused roughly $20,000 in damages. School officials suspended students involved and also blasted them with fines. Some students were also told that they would not walk in graduation, which they are fighting with their parents. 'As days past, I realized my mistakes, and understood why everyone was so ashamed of me, I brought shame to myself and to my family, I've come to ask for my seat back and my speech at graduation,' one student said at a Tuesday night board meeting. A Florida man who tried to pawn his baby at a local store and then posted footage of the bizarre incident online has spoken out to insist it was a prank after being reported to the police. Brian Slocum was filmed going into pawn shop in Sarasota, Florida, on Tuesday with his seven-month-old son, both on security cameras and on his cell phone. He intended it to be a prank and uplaoded the video to Snapchat but the store owner thought he was serious and reported him to the authorities. He spoke out on Thursday to insist that no harm was done to his baby and that it was all a joke. The store owner then called police and a massive manhunt ensued which ended in dozens of police showing up outside Brian Slocum's door. Brian Slocum tried to pawn his baby at a local store and then posted footage of the bizarre incident online described it as a prank gone wrong. He is pictured here with his seven-month old-baby, Caden Footage that Slocum posted on Snapchat shows him walking up to store owner Richard Jordan and putting his seven-month-old son Caden on the counter in a holder, saying: 'How are you doing buddy, this is what I got. 'No one under 18 in here, but he's barely used, he's seven and a half month's old, what do you think he's worth?. Just a pawn, I don't want to get rid of him.' Jordan immediately called the police after Slocum left as he was disturbed by the encounter. Soon dozens of officers arrived at Slocum's home and the incident was picked up by several media outlets. Jordan told WFLA: 'The weirdest, strangest situation we've ever encountered. He put it on the counter, he was pretty serious about it. He spun the baby around, and said- "Can I pawn this?." Slocum said he was encouraged by his nephew to post 'silly videos' on Snapchat. He then posted footage online of him trying to pawn his baby at a pawn shop in Sarasota Store owner Richard Jordan said he did not find the episode funny and called the police. He is seen here in grabs from the footage being approached by Slocum and his baby 'This is not funny! This is not funny, this is serious business,' Jordan added. Slocum later contacted local authorities after realizing police had released the video and were searching for him. He claimed he filmed the encounter as a joke after his nephew asked him to make 'silly videos.' Speaking from his home, Slocum told WFLA: 'I was thinking I'd go in there and the guy would be like, "Oh, if it was my son, I'd give you ten grand or something,'" said Slocum. Richard Jordan, owner of the A&F Pawn Shop, called the police immediately after he left Single father Brian Slocum said he loves his son and would never harm him 'It was a prank, it was skit and a lot of these young people don't realize that doing things like this has a consequence. He added: 'There is nothing in the world that I would trade for my son, he is my world nor any money is worth him.' Slocum contacted law enforcement after seeing he was on the news and dozens of officers descended on his home. 'They [police] didn't find it funny or hilarious at all and there was a lot of resources and time and money that went into it.' Slocum contacted law enforcement after seeing he was on the news and said dozens of officers descended on his home afterwards In a statement, Sarasota Police Department said that Slocum will not face criminal charges In a statement, Sarasota Police Department said that Slocum will not face criminal charges. They also thanked Richard Jordan for contacting him, nothing that he took Slocum's comments and actions 'very serious.' They added: 'During this investigation, the Sarasota Police Department was contacted by Mr. Slocum who wanted to give a statement on what occurred. 'Mr. Slocum learned that he was on social media and that police were attempting to identify him. Mr. Slocum claims that his encounter with the store clerk was a prank and that he wanted to place his own video on social media. 'Detectives verified the child was safe and contacted the Florida Department of Children and Families Services as part of this investigation.' Jessica Stevenson (pictured), 33, was arrested last week after a teacher at a Florida elementary school reported that 'hundreds of bugs' crawled out of her daughter's backpack A Florida mother was arrested last week after 'hundreds of bugs' crawled out of her daughter's backpack inside her elementary school's lunchroom. Jessica Stevenson, 33, was taken into custody after an employee from Bagdad Elementary School reported that the second-grade girl and her two siblings were living in poor conditions. Stevenson, of Milton, was charged with five counts of child abuse. The girl is one of five siblings between the ages of 5 to 14 who were living in Stevenson's 'filthy' home, according to a report from the Santa Rosa County Sheriffs Office. According to the Pensacola News Journal, the incident occurred after the employee reported that the girl and her three siblings had poor hygiene to the Florida Department of Children and Families. The worker told authorities that the second-grader's body odor was hard to ignore and that the child had been wearing the same clothes for an entire week in April. Police said the employee also told them that at one point 'hundreds of bugs crawled out' of the student's 'backpack in the lunchroom'. Another teacher told authorities that the student was 'having meltdowns' and seemed depressed. The girl is one of five siblings (all pictured) between the ages of 5 to 14 who were living in Stevenson's 'filthy' home, according to a report from the Santa Rosa County Sheriffs Office Stevenson (pictured), of Milton, was charged with five counts of child abuse, but she doesn't believe she did anything wrong This incident prompted police to visit the child's home, that they found to be infested with roaches. 'The roaches were on nearly every surface in the home,' police said in the report. Authorities said the bugs were 'on the children's mattresses, in the pots and pans in the kitchen, and inside the cabinets/fridge'. According to police, there were soiled mattresses on the floor, piles of cat feces, no edible food, broken windows and trash strewn throughout the home. There was nothing but spoiled food in the home, including milk and eggs. But police did note that the Stevenson's bedroom was the only clean area of the home. The incident occurred at the Bagdad Elementary School (pictured), where three of Stevenson's five children attend Stevenson doesn't believe she did anything wrong. She told WEAR-TV: 'I'm not a bad mom, I do everything I can. I work hard.' Stevenson said she is a single mother with low-income and costs associated with the charges against her are making things harder for her. Following the charges, Stevenson was given a no contact order for her children. Her bond was set at $12,500. She made bond the day after her arrest and was released from custody. She faces a maximum of 25 years in prison if found guilty on all five counts. President Donald Trump intends to nominate Patrick Shanahan to defense secretary, the White House announced Thursday afternoon. Trump named Shanahan 'acting' secretary at the end of last year. He succeeded James Mattis, who left the administration after a dispute with Trump over an announced military withdrawal in Syria. For four months, Trump refused to nominate Shanahan to the position of Pentagon chief, even as the U.S. considered using military might in hot zones across the globe. President Donald Trump intends to nominate Patrick Shanahan to defense secretary, the White House announced Thursday afternoon His press secretary says that Trump is ready to give Shanahan complete control of the Defense Department now and will nominate him to the position. 'Based upon his outstanding service to the Country and his demonstrated ability to lead, President Trump intends to nominate Patrick M. Shanahan to be the Secretary of Defense,' she said. 'Acting Secretary Shanahan has served in high-profile positions, including the Deputy Secretary of Defense and Vice President of Supply Chain and Operations at Boeing.' She noted that he holds a Master of Science degree in engineering and a Master of Business Administration degree from MIT. 'Acting Secretary Shanahan has proven over the last several months that he is beyond qualified to lead the Department of Defense, and he will continue to do an excellent job,' she said in a Thursday afternoon statement. Trump resisted making Shanahan the permanent Pentagon chief after he parted ways with almost every high-level Cabinet official he appointed within his first two years. Trump named Shanahan 'acting' secretary at the end of last year. He succeeded James Mattis, who left the administration after a dispute with Trump He said the term acting gives him 'flexibility' he desires to make internal changes. 'My "actings" are doing really great,' Trump said of 'acting' heads at the time like Interior's David Bernhardt. 'Mick Mulvaney is doing great as chief of staff. But I sort of like "acting." It gives me more flexibility. Do you understand that? I like "acting." So we have a few that are "acting." We have a great, great Cabinet.' Trump moved to give Shanahan job security on Thursday, as conflicts with North Korea and Iran flared. U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo also cut short a trip to Europe to rush back to Washington to manage them. A man has been arrested 17 years after a shooting which left the victim in a vegetative state until he died more than a decade later. BBC's Crimewatch broadcast the dying breaths of Marvin Couson, who died on August 8, 2015, in a bid to find his killer three years ago. He was shot at the Lime In London Bar, Shoreditch, east London, on May 12, 2002, leaving him confined to a hospital bed 'in pain, in suffering'. A 40-year-old man was arrested this morning on suspicion of possession of a firearm and possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life, and is being questioned at a west London police station. Detective Chief Inspector Noel McHugh, from the Metropolitan Police's Homicide and Major Crime Command, said: 'We are days away from the 17th anniversary of Marvin's shooting and this morning we have made a significant arrest. Marvin Couson was shot outside a bar in Shoreditch, east London, on May 12, 2002. Police have finally arrested a man over the shooting, which left Mr Couson in a vegetative state for 13 years until his death, today 'I hope that it will encourage people to take themselves back to the Lime Bar on 12 May 2002. 'Witnesses have come forward and we are hugely grateful for their help but heartbreakingly some have not or have given incomplete accounts of what happened that night. 'I understand by the nature of the crime there may be reluctance to get involved or perhaps people just feel they have moved on as it was so long ago. 'Well, Marvin's family haven't, they have endured years of heartache, visiting his hospital bedside every day for 13 years while he lay paralysed before finally succumbing to his injuries.' Mr Couson's sister Margaret Couson said after the arrest: 'On Sunday May 12 it will be the anniversary of Marvin's shooting. 'It is remarkable that it is 17 years since Marvin was shot and his killer remains at large, not a day goes by when we don't think of Marvin. 'That awful incident has ruined so many lives and each day I wake and go to sleep thinking of Marvin. I ask "why?". Marvin wasn't involved in crime, he loved life and his family, he had the best years of his life ahead of him. BBC's Crimewatch broadcast the dying breaths in a bid to find his killer three years ago. Pictured: the bar where Mr Couson was shot 'His two children turn 20 and their only memory is their dad being in hospital and the face of a media campaign. They have been robbed of just having their dad there. 'I am encouraged that no matter how much time passes by, the police do not give up and we as a family most certainly will not give up our fight for justice. Things do not just move on, we have been in trauma for 17 years.' Mr Couson was 26 when he was shot in front of 300 people outside the bar, which no longer exists, leaving him in a vegetative state at the Royal London Hospital. A man was arrested on May 23, 2002, in connection with the shooting but was subsequently released with no further action. BBC's Crimewatch programme broadcast phone footage taken by his sister Margaret at his bedside in hospital just minutes before he passed away in 2016. At the time, she told the show: I feel people need to see that this man, this innocent man - completely innocent - suffered in this way until he took his last breaths because someone took a gun and shot him. Immigration officials are scared to crack down on businesses hiring illegal workers in the wake of the Windrush scandal, a report warns. The Government estimates that between 190,000 and 240,000 businesses in the UK are currently employing staff who are here illegally. Many are restaurant chains or fast food outlets and firms caught out in the past include Pizza Hut, Chez Gerard and Wimpy. Many are restaurant chains or fast food outlets and firms caught out in the past include Pizza Hut, Chez Gerard and Wimpy. A stock picture of a Pizza Hut store is used above for illustrative purposes [File photo] But a report by the immigrations watchdog warns that last years Windrush scandal has had a damaging effect on enforcement. Figures show that only 256 fines were handed out to firms hiring illegal immigrants in 2018/19, a tenth of the 2,594 penalties which were issued in 2015/16. David Bolt, the Independent Chief Inspector of Border and Immigration, said this was partly because enforcement officers were wary after the backlash to Windrush. He said: It was evident that Windrush had had a significant effect on immigration enforcement operationally, as a result of the pausing of data sharing with other departments, and psychologically, with immigration enforcement perceiving that other departments and agencies, employers and the general public were now less supportive. The Windrush generation were named after the ship which brought the first migrants from the West Indies in 1948 to help rebuild post-war Britain. But last year, many of the Windrush children revealed how they had been wrongly labelled as illegal immigrants after falling foul of tougher Home Office rules introduced in 2014. Some were threatened with deportation back to the Caribbean, while others lost their homes, jobs and benefits despite having paid taxes in Britain for decades. The Windrush generation were named after the ship which brought the first migrants from the West Indies in 1948 to help rebuild post-war Britain [File photo] Mr Bolt urged the Government to produce a new strategy on illegal working as soon as possible, adding that there was little clarity about the Home Offices thinking or intentions. A Home Office spokesman said: We are committed to an immigration policy which welcomes and celebrates people here legally, but which tackles illegal immigration. Illegal working undercuts honest employers, puts vulnerable migrants at risk of exploitation, cheats legitimate job seekers out of employment and defrauds the public purse. Tackling this damaging crime is a key Government priority. Meanwhile a separate report, also by the Chief Inspector of Borders and Immigration, warned that foreign criminals are routinely avoiding deportation by launching legal challenges. Mr Bolt was investigating the Home Offices system for sending foreign offenders home once they had completed prison sentences. He found that in one six-month period, a total of 1,560 individuals managed to delay the deportation process or avoid it altogether. Some launched legal challenges while others claimed they were unable to go back home due to medical reasons. A Home Office spokesman said: People who have no right to live in this country should be in no doubt of our determination to remove them. We will always seek to deport those who commit crimes and present a serious threat to our society. Vice President Joe Biden said at a California campaign event that the nation has an obligation to provide health care for people, including those who came into the country illegally. Biden made the statement on a West Coast swing Wednesday. 'I think that anyone who is in a situation where they're in need of healthcare, regardless of whether they are documented or undocumented, we have an obligation to see that they are cared for," Biden said in Los Angeles, where he held a major fundraiser. He didn't specify what type of care he had in mind, or whether it would be the same care provided to citizens and legal immigrants. "That's why I think we need more clinics around the country,' Biden said. Former Vice President and Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden said this week that the nation had the obligation to provide everyone health care 'regardless of whether they are documented' should be Obamacare, the national health law that Biden famously called a 'big f***** deal' when it passed while he was in office, does not allow people who came here illegally to buy health plans under the federal exchange. The issue became a flashpoint in 2014 when the Obama administration elected not to extend coverage to 'Dreamers' or others protected from deportation. Emergency Medicaid programs do subsidize hospitals who are obligated to provide emergency and maternity care, regardless of status. Biden's comment got publicized by a GOP research director and picked up by the conservative Daily Wire. The former vice president, who has called for allowing any American to buy into a public option for Medicare, also called for people to 'tone down the rhetoric' on immigration. 'This idea that undocumented - and by the way a significant portion of undocumented folks in our country are there because they've overstayed their visas. It's not people breaking down gates coming across the border,' Biden said. Former US Vice President and front-running Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden and Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti (R) leave a King Taco shop in Los Angeles, California on May 8, 2019 Biden made the comments while touring the King Taco restaurant in Los Angeles 'The biggest thing we've got to do on this is just tone down the rhetoric. We know why it's happening. It's to create fear and concern. Why is your job in tough shape? Because of that, then he described in very graphic unflattering terms, that other, the immigrant. This is ridiculous,' he said. President Trump blasted illegal immigration at a rally in Panama City Beach, Florida Thursday, defending his use of the term invasion and alluding to the time he singled out Mexican 'rapists' during his campaign launch. How do you stop these people? the president asked rhetorically. A member of the crowd yelled out 'Shoot them!' prompting Trump to joke: 'Thats only in the Panhandle you can get away with that statement.' Air passengers could be forced to pay up to 50p extra per ticket to fund flights home for those left stranded if another airline goes bust. The Department for Transport yesterday published the results of a review set up in the wake of the Monarch Airlines collapse in October 2017. That triggered the largest peacetime repatriation of civilians, as 85,000 passengers were flown back to the UK, leaving taxpayers with a 40.5million bill. A string of other operators have collapsed since then, including FlyBMI, Iceland's Wow Air, and India's Jet Airways. Passengers could be pay 50p per ticket to fund flights if another airline collapses following the release of the Department for Transport's review set up in the wake of the Monarch Airlines (stock image pictured) collapse in October 2017 The Airline Insolvency Review yesterday laid out plans for a 'Flight Protection Scheme' that will be funded by airlines through a levy on travellers. Review chairman Peter Bucks said: 'Passengers expect to be protected from being stranded overseas, but in practice, each year many people fly without any such protection.' The report said it would amount to less than 50p per person on average, to be charged on each return flight originating from the UK. It is expected to generate around 35million a year. But airlines hit out at the plans, warning the tax would be an unacceptable new burden on passengers. The Airline Insolvency Review laid out plans for a 'Flight Protection Scheme' which suggested the scheme will be funded by airlines through a levy on travellers. But carriers have hit out at the plans, calling it an unacceptable burden on passengers BA's owner IAG said: 'Passengers should not be charged a levy to bail out other carriers when they go bust.' Airlines UK, which represents all the main carriers, said travellers already pay more than 3billion a year in Air Passenger Duty. Chief executive Tim Alderslade added that airlines are operating on 'wafer thin' margins. 'This is not the time to make it more expensive to travel,' he said. But ABTA, the Association of British Travel Agents, welcomed the plans. It said: 'The review has recognised that there is a gap in consumer protection when an airline goes out of business.' The report also recommended allowing an insolvent airline to continue using its planes to bring passengers home. Pictured: Natalie Warner. Her experience is far from an isolated one To celebrate her 17th birthday, Natalie Warners parents did what many others do, and bought their daughter driving lessons as a gift. As she sat behind the wheel for the first time with her instructor, a married, middle-aged man, Natalie felt nervous, but also excited about learning to drive. However, any apprehension about getting behind the wheel was quickly replaced by feelings of unease due to the increasingly inappropriate behaviour of her tutor. At first things were fine, says Natalie, now a 19-year-old university student. But he started to say how pretty he thought I was. It made me really uncomfortable. It wasnt appropriate and I was trying to concentrate. He then started to talk in a sexual way about the gear stick. I was repulsed. I tried to focus on learning to drive but he kept leaning over and tickling me in the ribs and he put his hand on my thigh to caress it. I felt really vulnerable as I was alone with him. As shocking as this behaviour was, Natalies experience is far from an isolated one. In the past year alone, complaints of sexually inappropriate behaviour were made against 246 instructors a threefold increase since 2015 when there were 75 complaints. Like Natalie, many do not report their experiences, meaning the true figure could be far higher. In March, Martyn Rees, a 37-year-old instructor, was convicted of 20 sexual offences including rape, attempted sexual assault of a pupil during a lesson and secretly filming intimate parts of his young female students during driving lessons in Manchester. In September, Neil Addison, 55, of Fife, was jailed for four years for sexually abusing 14 female students while they were behind the wheel of his car. In December 2017, 64-year-old Gary Rolinsons jail term for abusing male students was increased from four to five years after more teenage victims came forward to say he had abused them during lessons in Dudley, in the West Midlands. And in 2015, Southampton driving instructor Stephen Mason, 59, admitted sexually assaulting two teenage pupils, 17 and 19, and was jailed for 32 months. So why dont more women report the unwanted, sleazy advances of their instructors? Part of the reason is many, like Natalie, feel under pressure to continue with lessons because they are often paid for in a block. It was a significant financial investment of several hundred pounds to which she had helped contribute with earnings from her waitressing job. I was shocked by the way he was behaving. I tried to laugh it off. I wish Id reported him now, says Natalie. Living in a rural village in Scotland, she knew driving would be her lifeline, so she just tried to get through it. In the end, Natalie, who is studying for an accountancy degree with the Open University, had nine lessons before she could endure no more. The experience put her off driving for a year before she resumed lessons a few months ago with a new instructor, who is male, but has helped restore her confidence. Why dont more women report the unwanted, sleazy advances of their instructors? (stock image) I was really affected by what happened and nervous about learning again, but I have started to enjoy my lessons and hope to pass soon. Of course, the majority of driving instructors behave with utmost professionalism and decency, but being alone with someone in a car for hours at a time is an intimate experience and can be open to exploitation and abuse. And with only a fifth (22 per cent) of the UKs 39,000 instructors being female, more often than not, young learners will be taught by a man. So what safeguards are in place to protect them? By law, all driving instructors have to apply to the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) to join its Approved Driving Instructor (ADI) register. This means they have to be over 21, pass motoring conviction checks and enhanced background checks, be able to read a licence plate at 90ft (27.5 metres) and have a full driving licence. In March, Martyn Rees, a 37-year-old instructor, was convicted of 20 sexual offences including rape They also have to be a fit and proper person and adhere to a code of conduct requiring them to behave professionally and responsibly, to avoid inappropriate language and circumstances and situations which are, or could be, perceived to be of an inappropriate nature. Anyone who feels their instructor has breached this can report them to the DVSA and they can ultimately be struck off. As a DVSA spokesman says: Driving instructors found to be threatening the safety of learners will be removed from the register and stopped from teaching. But how often does this actually happen? Of the 246 current complaints, just ten instructors have been removed from the register, while 135 complaints are still ongoing. And due to insufficient evidence, 23 were given warnings but allowed to carry on teaching. As a result of the increasing number of complaints, there are growing calls for instructors to be held to the same standards as academic teachers, meaning any sexual contact would automatically be a criminal offence. Many would also like to see cameras installed in cars. Victoria Myers, a partner and head of abuse claims at Manchester-based Graham Coffey & Co solicitors, says she is coming across an increasing number of cases where pupils are not happy with their instructors behaviour. She says: Driving instructors need to have the same duty of care as teachers and social workers. They have care over some young people who, at the age of 17 or 18, can be very vulnerable. Cameras in the cars should be a must for every instructor as it gives them and their pupils a sense of protection. Of the 246 current complaints, just ten instructors have been removed from the register, while 135 complaints are still ongoing (stock image) Sarah Morris, 26, a mother-of-two, who runs a design business in North Yorkshire, believes cameras would have prevented what happened to her. Id been bought lessons by my boyfriend for my birthday. There was a heavily discounted deal. Sarah says things were fine initially, but as her lessons progressed, so did the unwanted attentions of her tutor, who, she says, was a divorced man in his 50s. Things started to get weird. He would say: Youre such a pretty girl. Do you like older men? I could show you a better time than your boyfriend. Whenever I put my hand on the gear stick he would place his on top. I didnt like it. I just tried to ignore it but on our third lesson, he placed his hand right at the top of my thigh, quite close to my groin. I was absolutely mortified. I asked him to move it but he wouldnt, he kept it there for about five minutes. I told him I didnt want him to do that but he said nothing. Sarah, who was working as a hairdresser at the time, says she regrets continuing the lessons. She hoped it had been a one-off and, as she had made herself clear, and so desperately wanted to learn to drive, she continued, albeit apprehensively. With money tight, she was mindful of not wasting the 70 already spent. My fourth lesson was fine and nothing happened. But then on my fifth, he put his hand back on my thigh and refused to move it. I was getting really upset. It went on for about half an hour. I told him I was going to get out of the car and walk. I told my boyfriend and he confronted him, but he said I was lying. This is why cameras would help as its just one persons word against another it would help keep everyone safe. I regret not reporting him. I still see his car driving around and it makes me shudder. Sarah, who managed to pass a year later with a different male instructor, says she was nervous about having lessons again but did lots of research and spoke to others taught by her new instructor to make sure he was OK. Olivia Baldock-Ward, head of training at membership body the Driving Instructors Association, says although the increase in complaints needs to be taken seriously, it still only represents 0.6 per cent of all registered instructors. She adds: Some instructors are using cameras for training to allow pupils to review their performance. Obviously, with these allegations, it can be a good way for an instructor to get protection themselves because they are lone workers. She adds: Safeguarding education is not mandatory. Driving instructors should be aware of the potential breaches they can be committing. Putting your arm around someone and saying: Well done can really cause offence. The impact of such abuse can be lifelong leaving victims feeling unable to learn to drive. Novelist Lucinda Hart, 43, says: I was 18 and my instructor, a married man in his late 40s, was driving me back from the second driving test I had failed. Novelist Lucinda Hart sayid Wed been having lessons for six months and Id been friendly to him, so I felt like it was my fault. I didnt want to ruin his life, so I didnt tell anyone Our lessons had always been fine and there was nothing inappropriate, but in this instance, instead of taking me home, he drove to a remote clifftop car park. Lucinda, who lives in Cornwall, says: I thought what is going on? He didnt say anything but moved in and started to touch my chest and kiss me and he put his hand on my groin. I said stop, and he replied: Have I been misreading you? And I told him he had and I wanted to go home. And then he tried again, but I told him to stop. He then drove me home and said: I hope you dont think I was misbehaving. I never heard from him again. Lucinda says: Wed been having lessons for six months and Id been friendly to him, so I felt like it was my fault. I didnt want to ruin his life, so I didnt tell anyone. She passed her test a year later with a female instructor and says she can see now, as a mother to two young girls, how wrong his actions were and would like to see cameras installed in cars to protect all who learn to drive. Meanwhile, Lorraine Barrett, 56, says it took her nearly 30 years before she felt brave enough to try lessons again after being assaulted by her instructor. Lorraine, a nurse from Basildon, Essex, says: Id had six lessons without incident and had asked my instructor, who was in his 50s, to drop me at a pub after our lesson as I was meeting friends. He pulled into the car park and suddenly leaned over and tried to kiss me. I tried to pull away but he put his hands hard around my throat and I could feel them tightening. It was scary. Somehow I managed to get out of the car and ran into the pub, and he drove off. Lorraine, a mother and grandmother of two, said she was left so shaken by the attack in 1990 she only started to have lessons again last year. I didnt tell anyone. I was too scared and upset, she says. At the time I was a single parent to my daughter Jayne, who was four. He knew my address. Lorraine says after her daughter Emily, 26, was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis last year, she knew she had to conquer her fear and learn to drive for Emilys sake. What happened is astonishing. A friend recommended someone, a man, so although I was nervous, I tried again. I explained how scared I was and why, but during our lessons he started to show me pornographic photos on his phone. I couldnt believe it after my experience all those years ago. It made me feel really uncomfortable. So I quit and started having lessons with a woman. Its going really well with her so far. One female instructor in Norwich says she is seeing an increasing number of girls complain about sexual harassment, and as she has reported the actions of many male instructors, wants to remain anonymous to enable her to continue doing so. Ive had three girls complain to me in the past six weeks, she says. Its disgusting. I get girls who look for female instructors because theyve had these experiences. Many feel intimidated, dont complain and tolerate it longer than they should. I try to encourage them to tell the DVSA. If these instructors are doing it to them, they must be doing it to other girls. Judges in Holland have refused to send a suspected drugs smuggler back to Britain because they believe the conditions at a British jail are so bad it would be inhumane. The UK authorities have applied for the fugitive to be extradited following his capture after nearly two years on the run. But because of his links to Merseyside, Dutch judges fear he could end up being held in Liverpool prison, where they say there is a real risk of inhuman or degrading treatment. Because of his links to Merseyside, Dutch judges fear he could end up being held in Liverpool prison, where they say there is a real risk of inhuman or degrading treatment Concerns over the state of the jail were raised during a hearing at the Court of Amsterdam on Wednesday. Referring to a UK prison inspectors report last year, the court heard how inspectors had found some of the most disturbing prison conditions we have ever seen. Among the worst was HMP Liverpool, which was plagued with rats, flooded with drugs and where inmates were living in squalid conditions. A surprise inspection at the jail in September 2017 also found rising violence was leaving prisoners in fear of attack. HM Chief Inspector of Prisons Peter Clarke said: The inspection team was highly experienced and could not recall having seen worse living conditions than those at HMP Liverpool. Images taken on an inspection of HMP Liverpool show graffiti and damp-hit walls, smashed windows, a cockroach, litter-strewn walkways and filthy toilets The court session in Amsterdam was the latest focusing on the case of an unnamed man made the subject of a European Arrest Warrant at Liverpool Magistrates Court in July 2017. The man, suspected of trafficking heroin and cocaine in Merseyside, had been on the run in Spain. An application has been made to have him brought back to the UK for questioning. His lawyer called on the extradition to be refused based on the prison inspectors reports, saying there is no guarantee the fugitive would not be held in Liverpool jail if he surrendered. The judges appeared to agree, ruling there was a real risk of inhuman or degrading treatment should the suspect end up at the jail contrary to Article Three of the European Court of Human Rights. But the Dutch ruling that Liverpool and two other prisons inspectors raised concerns about, Birmingham and Bedford are no-go zones for extradited prisoners has been strongly denied by the UK Government. The Dutch ruling that Liverpool and two other prisons inspectors raised concerns about, Birmingham and Bedford are no-go zones for extradited prisoners has been strongly denied by the UK Government. Pictured: Images taken on an inspection of HMP Liverpool A letter written by the Director General of Prisons to the judges overseeing Wednesdays case argued: We do not accept those conditions anywhere in our prisons amount to inhuman or degrading treatment contrary to Article Three. It added that steps are being taken to reduce overcrowding, and new governors have been appointed at the three jails. However, the Dutch judges argued: What has been put forward by the UK judicial authorities is too general and insufficient to assume that the detention conditions in the aforementioned prison institutions have significantly improved. In these circumstances, the expectation that the situation will improve rapidly is not sufficient to assume that the real risk of inhumane treatment has actually disappeared. The court delayed its decision on the extradition until it obtains additional information on the basis of which it can rule out the existence of such a hazard. Former Alaska Senator Mike Gravel berated Democratic presidential candidates former Vice President Joe Biden and South Bend, Indiana Mayor Pete Buttigieg on Thursday. Gravel, who launched a 2020 parody presidential campaign where he admitted he was not running to win, told The Hill in an interview that Buttigieg 'doesn't say anything more than the fact that he's gay and that energizes the gay community.' He mistakenly referred to Buttigieg as the Mayor of Indiana, a position that does not exist. Buttigieg is openly gay and has been married to his husband Chasten Glezman since June 2018. The two say they want to have children. The mayor's campaign declined to comment on Gravel's remarks. In the interview, he also took aim at former Barack Obama's vice president, calling him 'off the rails,' even though Biden is widely viewed as a moderate Democrat compared to the rest of the 2020 field. Former Alaska Mayor Mike Gravel attacked South Bend, Indiana Mayor Pete Buttigieg and former Vice President Joe Biden's campaigns on Thursaday The former Alaska senator said Buttigieg 'doesn't say anything more than the fact that he's gay and that energizes the gay community,' and claimed Biden is 'off the rails' due to his 'conventional wisdom' Buttigieg is openly gay and has been married to his husband Chasten Glezman since June 2018 'You have to look at what this person represents ideologically,' Gravel said of the former vice president, who is making his third bid for the White House. 'Biden ideologically is off the rails. He's conventional wisdom, but conventional wisdom is off the rails in the United States.' The former senator represented Alaska in the Washington, D.C. from 1969 to 1981 and is 88-years-old, far older than any of the other 21 Democrats running for the party's nomination next year. Independent Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders comes is second eldest at 77-years-old, and Biden is in a close third at 76. Buttigieg, on the other hand, in the youngest candidate at 36-years-old. If Biden, Sanders or Gravel were to win the nomination and defeat President Donald Trump in 2020, they would become the oldest entering president. While speaking on Thursday, Gravel was also critical of Biden's handling of the Anita Hill hearings. AGES OF THE 2020 CANDIDATES ON INAUGURATION DAY As of April 8, 2020 there were two major party candidates in the 2020 presidential election. Here is the age each of them would be on Inauguration Day 2021 if he were to win: Former Vice President Joe Biden (D) : 78 years, 2 months, 1 day : 78 years, 2 months, 1 day President Donald Trump (R) : 74 years, 7 months, 7 days Advertisement Biden was chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee when Hill testified over allegations of inappropriate behavior towards her from then-Supreme Court nominee Clarence Thomas. 'Joe was chairman of the Judiciary Committee, he wasn't a kid,' Gravel said. 'He'd been in the Congress long enough to know the difference between right and wrong. When he was Chairman he denied the ability to bring in two additional witnesses that would have corroborated Anita Hill.' In his first television appearance after announcing last month, Biden did not apologize for the way he treated Hill 28 years ago. 'I'm sorry the way she got treated,' Biden told The View co-hosts and audience. 'If you go back and look at what I said and I didn't say, I don't think I treated her badly. I took on her opposition.' He said what he didn't figure out how to do at the time was, 'stop people from asking inflammatory questions. Gravel originally said he was not running to win, but just wanted to get to the Democratic debate stages where he could share his ideas and then endorse another candidate. A few weeks after launching, his campaign announced that he was now running to win Gravel's campaign, which is run but a 17-year-old high school senior, posted to his Twitter How do you stop these character assassinations outside? There was a full blown attack on her in order to get the defense for Clarence Thomas. And no woman or any victim of harassment should ever be put through that circumstance in public hearings,' Biden said. Gravel said in a draft of his campaign plan that he did not plan on seriously seeking the presidency, but said his goal was to get on the Democratic primary debate stage so he could bring attention to what he believes is important. 'The goal of a Gravel 2020 campaign would not be to win, but instead to draw attention to the central issues that Sen. Gravel has focused on over the previous decades,' the campaign plan indicates. '[T]he ultimate goal would be to gain media attention and then endorse either Rep. Gabbard or Sen. Bernie Sanders before the Iowa caucuses.' Gravel, who also ran for president in 2008, did not call out Sanders or Gabbard in his rant Thursday. Weeks after launching his campaign, which was designed to fail, Gravel made another announcement via Twitter: 'WE'RE RUNNING TO WIN FOLKS'. Notably, the former Alaska senator's campaign manager is a 17-year-old high school senior. An amber alert has been issued for a three-month-old baby girl who has not been seen for three days. Bayylie-Jayde Hayward-Watson was last seen in Scullin, Canberra, on Tuesday morning and is believed to be with her father Nicholas Watson. Police and family have been unable to get hold of Mr Watson since Tuesday and they are now concerned for the welfare of him and Bayylie-Jade. Bayylie-Jayde Hayward-Watson was last seen in Scullin, Canberra, on Tuesday morning and is believed to be with her father Nicholas Watson Mr Watson has red hair, green eyes, freckles and is said to be of solid build. He has a tattoo on the back of his neck which features a rose and the letters C and M. Anyone with information is urged to call ACT Police on 131 444 and quote the reference number 6394576. Mr Watson has red hair, green eyes, freckles and is said to be of solid build Michael Wright Jr (pictured in 2016) was convicted of third-degree murder in the starvation death of his 2-year-old daughter, who weighed just 10 pounds when she died A Pennsylvania father has been convicted of third-degree murder in the starvation death of his two-year-old daughter, who weighed just 10 pounds when she died. Michael Wright Jr will be sentenced in the death of his daughter Lydia, who was left strapped in a car seat for more than 13 hours in front of the family's home. Andrea Dusha, Lydia's mother, accepted a plea deal to third-degree murder and had agreed to testify against Wright. Dusha will be sentenced next week and is expected to receive nine-and-a-half to 19 years in prison. Wright will be sentenced on May 24. Wright told reporters he was 'innocent' as he was escorted to jail on Thursday. His lawyers argued that Wright had succumbed to the 'pressures of parenthood'. Lydia was left in her car seat overnight, from 9pm on February 23, 2016 until 10.30am on February 24, in front of the family's Uniontown home. When Dusha went to check on Lydia, she tried to get her daughter to drink a mixture of water, Gatorade, and Pedialyte. Lydia Wright (pictured) was left strapped in a car seat for more than 13 hours in front of the family's home before she died in February 2016 Foam began coming out of Lydia's nose and mouth and her eyes rolled back in her head. She had stopped breathing. Dusha rushed Lydia to the hospital, where doctors discovered she weighed just 10lb. A healthy two-year-old, on average, weighs around 20lb. Andrea Dusha (pictured in 2016), Lydia's mother, accepted a plea deal to third-degree murder and had agreed to testify against Wright An autopsy later determined that the toddler had died of dehydration and malnutrition. Her death was ruled a homicide. When officers arrived at the family's squalid home, they discovered the children had been living without water or sewage services. Investigators also found bottles of urine and dirty diapers, unwashed dishes, tables, and counters, and a toilet filled with feces. Dr Michael Bradman, who treated Lydia at the hospital, testified that she was lifeless and rigid, according to CBS Pittsburgh. Bradman believed she had already been dead for a few hours when she was brought to the hospital, but noticed that Dusha 'was very calm'. Trooper Heather Clem Johnston testified that Dusha told her that Lydia had been sick a few days before her death. Johnston said she also visited the family's home and saw that Lydia was forced to sleep strapped in a car seat inside a filthy room. Investigators said Wright and Dusha would eat and drink in front of Lydia as she was starving to death while strapped in her car seat. He is pictured here in 2016 Lydia was left in her car seat overnight, from 9pm on February 23, 2016 until 10.30am on February 24, in front of the family's Uniontown home Investigators said they also discovered that Wright and Dusha would eat and drink in front of Lydia as she was starving to death in her car seat. Trooper James Pierce testified that Wright never went to check on Lydia the night before she died. Wright told Pierce that he never changed Lydia's diapers but thought she was in good health. He also told the trooper that he never checked on his daughter. 'I guess I'm just lazy, man,' he told Pierce. The couple's other two children are now living with family members. On Thursday, a prosecutor dropped two charges against Dillon Webb (pictured), 23, that pertained to his May 5 arrest over a crude window sticker A Florida man who was arrested for refusing to remove a crude window sticker has had his charges dropped. Dillon Shane Webb, 23, was pulled over in Lake City on May 5 after an officer noticed he was driving with an 'I Eat A**' sticker displayed on the back of his Chevy. He was subsequently charged with misdemeanor counts of violating Florida's obscenity law and resisting an officer without violence, before being released on $2,500 bond. But on Thursday, Columbia County State Attorneys Office decided to drop the case, claiming that Webb was protected by his First Amendment rights. In one-page filing, Assistant State Attorney John Foster Durrett declared: 'Having evaluated the evidence through the prism of Supreme Court precedent, it is determined the Defendant has a valid defense to be raised under the First Amendment of our United States Constitution. Given such, a jury would not convict under these facts'. An officer noticed Webb was driving with an 'I Eat A**' sticker displayed on the back of his Chevy (pictured) Webb has no previous arrest record. After his arrest on May 5, the warehouse worker fought vigorously to have the charges dropped and has said that he plans to file a wrongful arrest lawsuit against the sheriff's office. He was temporarily suspended from his job following the arrest, and it is unclear whether he has been allowed to return to work. Webb told the Associated Press on Sunday: 'I'm tired of police forces thinking they are above the Constitution, the Bill of Rights'. The arresting officer claimed that the sticker may have been offensive to children, but Webb declared: 'What's vulgar to me might not be vulgar to somebody else'. Webb was temporarily suspended from his job following the arrest, and it is unclear whether he has been allowed to return to work He added: 'I've had parents drive by me with their kids taking pictures. They point and laugh and giggle, and they go on about their day.' The Florida man said he had the sticker on his truck for less than a week before his traffic stop, and that he and several friends had all decided to get similar stickers as a group joke. Webb's vehicle had been towed when he was arrested. He said the sticker was still in place when he retrieved the vehicle. The American Civil Liberties Union of Florida released a statement Tuesday questioning why the sheriff's office was wasting resources on such a traffic stop. 'Shouldn't police officers spend their time serving and protecting communities and not pulling Floridians over for speech that is already protected by the First Amendment?' ACLU spokeswoman Casey Bruce-White said in a statement. 'Using the excuse that a child would see and ask questions about this particular bumper sticker is absurd.' The fiance of Australian yoga teacher Justine Ruszczyk Damond has revealed the tragic last words he said to her before she was shot dead by a police officer in the United States. Ms Damond, 40, was killed by Mohamed Noor, 33, in Minneapolis, Minnesota on July 15, 2017, and he was convicted of third-degree murder on April 30. Ms Damond, a dual citizen of the U.S. and Australia, had called 911 to summon officers to a possible rape in an alley behind her house. After arriving at the alley, Noor claimed he heard a loud bang before seeing Ms Damond approaching, and shot her as he considered her a 'threat'. Don Damond, Ms Damond's fiance, was in Las Vegas on a business trip when she was killed, and spoke to her on the phone just moments before she was fatally shot. The fiance of Australian yoga teacher Justine Ruszczyk Damond (pictured) has revealed the tragic last words he said to her before she was shot dead by a police officer Don Damond (pictured), Justine's fiance, was in Las Vegas on a business trip when she was killed, and spoke to her on the phone just moments before she was fatally shot Ms Damond, 40, was killed by Mohamed Noor (pictured), 33, in Minneapolis, Minnesota on July 15, 2017, and he was convicted of third-degree murder on April 30 Ms Damond told him she was concerned about a sexual assault she could hear near their home. 'My first thought was, ''I want her to be safe'', And so I said, ''I think just stay put and call 911 and then call me back'',' Mr Damond told CBS News. 'Probably six, seven minutes later, I text her having not heard from her. I said, ''Tell me what's going on''. At this point, she was already gone.' The couple were due to be married just four weeks before Ms Damond was killed. Mr Damond later broke down in tears in court when a guilty verdict was read for Noor. 'It was the acknowledgement that what we know is how tragic this is, how wrong this is, how unjust this was,' he said. The City of Minneapolis agreed to pay $20million ($28million AUD) to the family of Ms Damond. Mayor Jacob Frey and City Council members detailed the settlement just three days after a jury convicted Noor of murder and manslaughter. News of the settlement comes just days after Damond's family, including her father, John (pictured) filed a lawsuit seeking more than $50million The settlement is believed to be the largest stemming from police violence in the state of Minnesota, and roughly four to five times as large as any settlement paid out in recent years. When asked whether race played a role in the swift settlement or in its amount - Ms Damond was white, Noor is Somali American - Frey said this case stood out because of Noor's unprecedented conviction for third-degree murder, as well as the officer's failure to identify a threat before he used deadly force. 'This is not a victory for anyone, but rather a way for our city to move forward,' he said. 'I do believe that we will move forward together, united in the shared belief that such a tragedy should never occur in our city.' Noor and his partner were driving down the alley in a police SUV when they say they were startled by a loud bang on the vehicle. Noor testified that he fired to protect them from a perceived threat, after he saw his partner's terrified reaction, and saw a woman in a pink top and pajama pants appear at the driver's side window, raising her right arm. Jurors took more than 11 hours to reach a verdict after hearing three weeks of testimony. News of the settlement comes just days after Ms Damond's family filed a lawsuit seeking more than $50million, alleging that her civil rights were violated. Ms Damond was unarmed when she was shot by Noor after reporting a possible sexual assault near her home in July 2017 The settlement, which will be paid by the city's self-insurance fund, calls for Ms Damond's family to donate $2million to a local foundation's fund aimed at addressing gun violence. City leaders commended the family for addressing the broader issue of police violence, particularly affecting communities of color. During a press conference, Justine's father, John Ruszczyk, called the trial a 'painful journey' but said he was 'satisfied with the outcome'. Noor a Somali immigrant who had trained to become a police officer in a mid-career switch, was fired after he was charged. He is in custody awaiting sentencing in June. Sentencing guidelines call for as many as 15 years in prison on the murder charge, though judges can depart from the guidelines. Prosecutors criticised Noor for shooting without seeing a weapon or Ms Damond's hands. They also questioned whether the loud bang was real. She was barefoot and dressed in pyjama pants and a pink shirt adorned with 'Koala Australia' and a picture of a koala mum and baby. Neither Noor nor his partner, Matthew Harrity, mentioned it to investigators at the scene, with Harrity first mentioning it three days later in an interview with state investigators. Noor refused to talk to investigators. Ms Damond's death angered and bewildered citizens in the U.S. and Australia, and led to the forced resignation of Minneapolis' police chief. Her death also led the department to change its policy on body cameras. A Toronto neurosurgeon who pleaded guilty to the 2016 killing of his physician wife just days before his trial was due to begin was sentenced on Thursday to life in prison with no chance of parole for 14 years. Mohammed Shamji, 43, entered a guilty plea to the second-degree murder of Elana Fric-Shamji, 40, at a Toronto, Canada, courthouse in April. Sentencing him Justice John McMahon said the case is yet another tragic instance of domestic homicide that he sees far too often. The court was told Mohammed Shamji broke his wife's neck and ribs and choked her to death as their three children slept nearby. McMahon credited the defendant for his last-minute guilty plea, which saved his young daughter from testifying. But he condemned him for the brutal murder. And Ana Fric, Elana's mother, said justice wasn't done. 'I'm so sorry we don't have the death penalty in this country because Mohammed Shamji deserves death for what he did,' she said. Mohammed Shamji (left) has pleaded guilty to the second-degree murder of his wife, Elana Fric Shamji (right), who was found dead in a suitcase in Vaughan, Ontario Fric-Shamji (left) worked as a family doctor at the Scarborough and Rouge Hospital in Toronto. Her husband (right) was a neurosurgeon at Toronto Western Hospital A statement read out in court said Shamji killed his wife, then 40, during an argument. She had filed for divorce two days earlier. Fric-Shamji claimed she had been a victim of domestic violence during their 12-year marriage. The neurosurgeon, who has been in custody since his arrest on December 2, 2016, stuffed his wife's body into a suitcase where it was discovered dumped the next day by a passer-by near the Humber River in the southern Ontario city of Vaughan. She was killed from strangulation and blunt force trauma, according to police. Shamji was arrested at a coffee shop in Mississauga a day after her body was found. Speaking outside the courthouse after his guilty plea, Ana Fric, Elana's mother, said: 'Justice will never befall us. The only justice we will ever have is if she will come back and she will never come back.' News of the murder and Shamji's complicity was met with shock in the Toronto area at the time, particularly within the medical community. The Shamjis were highly regarded doctors whose marriage produced three children. The pair posted pictures on social media suggesting a happy couple. However, Fric-Shamji claimed their marriage was marked by domestic violence Mohammed Shamji (seen left with his wife) was arrested and charged with first-degree murder Fric-Shamji worked as a family doctor at the Scarborough and Rouge Hospital in Toronto Fric-Shamji worked as a family doctor at the Scarborough and Rouge Hospital in Toronto. Before his arrest, Shamji was a neurosurgeon at Toronto Western Hospital and a faculty member at the University of Toronto. They both had advanced degrees from Duke University in the US. Witnesses reported hearing the couple arguing at their home on the night of the killing. Law enforcement officials alleged that Fric-Shamji was hit with a blunt force object in the couple's garage. Neighbors told the Toronto Sun newspaper that Elana Fric-Shamji had filed for divorce from her husband and that she was in 'good spirits' in the days leading up to her death because she was 'looking toward her new life'. The couple's 12-year marriage produced three children. Two were in court to hear their father plead guilty Police believe Shamji (left) killed his wife (right) in the couple's garage after an argument At the time of the killing, the couple's children Yasmin, 12; Faiza, nine; and Marius, three were placed in the care of her maternal grandparents. Fric-Shamji's grisly death was a far cry from images the couple presented on their social media accounts, which show a husband and wife enjoying one another's company. However, sources told the Toronto Sun in 2016 that the marriage was marred by previous incidents in which the police were called to the house. The fiancee of an Irish tradesman who died in a horrific nine-car crash at a notorious motorway off-ramp has shared a heartbreaking tribute to him. Francis Shanley, 36, was killed in the crash on the M4 off-ramp at Mays Hill in western Sydney about 5.50am on Thursday. His car was hit by a truck carrying beer kegs. Mr Shanley's devastated fiancee Broc Nicholson shared an emotional message about his death to Facebook on Friday. Francis Shanley (left, with fiancee Broc Nicholson), 36, was killed in the crash on the M4 off-ramp at Mays Hill in western Sydney about 5.50am on Thursday. His car was hit by a truck carrying beer kegs Mr Shanley's devastated fiancee Broc Nicholson shared an emotional message (pictured) regarding his death to Facebook on Friday. New South Wales Police are searching for a driver who left the scene of the crash (pictured) 'Most of you have heard the devastating news of our beautiful, strong head, lucky charm Irish boy Francis Shanley has sadly passed away,' she wrote. 'He will be forever in our hearts and sadly missed. I thank you all for your love, support and messages of kind words. 'Going to be a long road ahead getting back on our feet... Fly high my beautiful angel I love you forever and always.' Thursday morning's crash happened at a notorious off-ramp, the last before tolls begin on the M4 motorway. New South Wales Police are searching for a driver who left the scene of the crash. Investigators have released a statement urging the driver to come forward as they believe he or she find could help clarify the circumstances of the fatal crash. Thursday morning's crash happened at a notorious off-ramp, the last before tolls begin on the M4 motorway. Pictured: Ms Nicholson (left) and Mr Shanley Inspector Katie Orr said: 'We want to speak with this driver to find what they know about the events leading up to the crash.' 'We also want to speak with any drivers who may have witnessed the crash and left the area or have relevant dash-cam footage.' Police are not suggesting the unknown driver caused the crash. MPs have been handed another 11-day break despite their failure to solve the Brexit crisis. Commons Leader Andrea Leadsom yesterday announced the dates for the Whitsun recess, which will run from May 24 to June 3. After the EU agreed a six-month delay to Brexit last month, European Council president Donald Tusk pleaded with Britain: 'Please do not waste this time.' But MPs are now due to have four recess periods lasting 83 days over this time. Mr Tusk was yesterday asked if he believed the UK was wasting time as he attended a meeting of the leaders of the other 27 EU states in Romania. He said: 'It's a good question.' The Whitsun recess will come only a month after MPs returned to Parliament following their 11-day Easter break. The break will mean MPs will not be in Westminster in the aftermath of the European elections on May 23. So Theresa sacked you as well then? Former defence secretary Gavin Williamson, who was sacked for allegedly leaking from the National Security Council, posted a picture of himself yesterday having lunch with former Chancellor George Osborne. He wrote: 'The upside of not being in government is more time to catch up with old friends' This could give Theresa May protection against efforts to oust her if the Conservatives perform as badly as expected. Mrs Leadsom yesterday told MPs the Commons would rise again later this month 'subject to the progress of business'. She added: 'It is the Government's intention to seek cross-party agreement to get a Bill that the whole House can support. 'It is absolutely essential that we leave the European Union, and it is utterly unacceptable that we have not done so three years after the referendum. 'I say to all honourable members who are worried about the impact on businesses and on people going about their everyday lives that if they support the Withdrawal Agreement Bill, we can put such issues to rest and get on with the important matters that our constituents are concerned about.' Jeremy Corbyn yesterday claimed a second referendum on Brexit could be a healing process for a divided country. Launching Labour's European elections campaign, he called on voters to abandon Leave and Remain labels to stop the Brexit debate becoming an 'endless loop'. He claimed that a 'People's Vote' could be good for the country, insisting: 'I would want that to be seen as a healing process and bring this whole process to a conclusion.' Speaking in Chatham, Kent, he said Labour would never accept the Government's 'bad deal' or a 'disastrous' No Deal. Labour sources warned last night that cross-party Brexit talks are doomed to failure. No 10 yesterday said Theresa May was hoping to bring forward legislation to take the UK out of the EU within the next fortnight if an agreement can be reached with Labour. But Opposition sources said the talks, which have been running for more than a month, had almost no chance of success. MP Andrew Murrison has been appointed to a ministerial role in the Foreign Office by Theresa May. As part of the minor reshuffle, Robert Buckland moves from solicitor general to a minister of state role at the Ministry of Justice. Lucy Frazer, formerly a junior minister at the MoJ, replaces Mr Buckland. Paul Maynard, previously a Government whip, replaces Miss Frazer. Former defence secretary Gavin Williamson, who was sacked for allegedly leaking from the National Security Council, posted a picture of himself yesterday having lunch with former Chancellor George Osborne. He wrote: 'The upside of not being in government is more time to catch up with old friends.' 20 hopefuls seeking May's job... and she's not even gone yet! By Jack Doyle and Jason Groves for the Daily Mail The Tory leadership contest exploded in dramatic fashion yesterday as it emerged up to 20 MPs could try to succeed Theresa May. In a series of public appearances, ministers and former ministers set out their stalls for the top job, made coded attacks on potential rivals and openly debated the future direction of the party. One Cabinet minister compared the public jostling for a job Mrs May has yet to relinquish to a 'Game of Thrones push for the Iron Throne'. Yesterday morning, former work and pensions minister Esther McVey announced she would stand, saying the Conservative Party needed a leader who 'believes in Brexit'. Former TV presenter and Tatton MP Miss McVey, who quit the Cabinet last year over the Brexit deal, said she had won backing from enough MPs to launch her campaign. 'I have always said quite clearly if I got enough support from my colleagues, yes I would,' she told TalkRadio. Work and Pensions Secretary Amber Rudd sidestepped questions about her own ambitions saying she was 'incredibly fortunate to be in this role'. But she indicated that she would not support candidates who wanted to scrap the HS2 rail link or who refused to rule out a No Deal Brexit. On track for a leadership bid! Liz Truss, centre, is pictured at a theme park in West Sussex On Newsnight last night she complained about MPs making public pitches for the top job, saying: 'This shouldn't be some Game of Thrones push for the Iron Throne. We've all got important jobs to do. Let's deliver on those.' Justice Secretary David Gauke made a major speech in which he warned his party not to embrace Right-wing 'populism' and stay a One Nation party instead of 'yearning for a mythical past'. He said Brexiteer MPs who claimed Britain could keep the benefits of membership after it left had 'left some voters bemused and angry that the simple Brexit they were promised has not been delivered'. He refused to say which Tory MPs he regarded as populist, but his comments will be seen as an attack on Boris Johnson. Although he refused to rule out running to succeed Mrs May, he said his position was to 'resist the clamour to stand'. In an interview, Chancellor Philip Hammond called for Mrs May to be replaced 'as quickly as possible' once she confirms her departure. He also said that he would like to stay as Chancellor under her successor but wouldn't take any other Cabinet job. Sacked former Aid Secretary Priti Patel positioned herself as an heir to Lady Thatcher in a speech to activists. She described a 'fundamental struggle for the soul of the Conservative Party' and advocated 'greater economic freedom and personal liberty'. Mrs May is under mounting pressure to set a timetable for her departure amid fears of a Tory wipeout at the European Elections and no sign of a Brexit deal with Jeremy Corbyn. There could be close to 20 contenders to replace her. Front-runners are thought to be Jeremy Hunt, Boris Johnson, Dominic Raab and Michael Gove. Home Secretary Sajid Javid, Health Secretary Matt Hancock and Defence Secretary Penny Mordaunt also have organised campaigns. Rory Stewart, recently promoted to International Development Secretary, has said he wants to be Prime Minister, and Leader of the Commons Andrea Leadsom who came second three years ago says she is 'seriously considering' whether to stand. Among more junior ministers Liz Truss, Tobias Ellwood and James Cleverly are set to run. From the backbenches, Sir Graham Brady, chairman of the 1922 committee, is seen by some MPs as a possibility as well as Johnny Mercer and Steve Baker. A royal burial site found beneath a roadside verge in Essex has been dubbed one of the most significant archaeological finds ever made in England. Discovered between a pub and an Aldi supermarket, it is thought to be the burial chamber of the brother of Anglo-Saxon King Saebert. Researchers behind the find have hailed it as the 'British equivalent of Tutankhamun's tomb' - despite little similarities in appearance. Belying its unglamorous location, inside the chamber are 40 artefacts thought to have belonged to the ancient Essex prince Saexa. The Anglo-Saxons were Pagans, but the Christian items found in the chamber suggest the religion was still important in England 1,400 years ago. It is the earliest Christian Anglo-Saxon princely burial found in the UK, according to experts from the Museum of London Archaeology (MOLA). Royal families emerged in Anglo-Saxon times in Kent, Essex and across south-east England. Saebert and Seaxa's mother was from the Kentish royal family, but their maternal aunt, Bertha, was a French princess who married into their royal family and brought her Christian beliefs with her. That may explain the gold crosses on the prince's eyes and the coins in the chamber, which are clearly Christian, while the very idea of a burial chamber is Pagan. The researchers say the site represents a 'transitional moment' in this country's history before Christianity took over. Scroll down for video It is thought to be the burial chamber of the brother of Anglo-Saxon King Saebert, Saexa, who died between 575AD and 605AD. Artist's impression of the chamber A royal burial site found beneath a roadside verge in Essex has been named one of the most significant archaeological finds ever made in England. Pictured: Conservator Claire Reed, inspecting the remains of a wooden drinking vessel with a decorated gold neck found inside Experts are fascinated by this time in English history as Anglo-Saxon kingdoms were emerging, with separate royal families in different parts of the country. The name Essex comes from the East Saxon families which ruled over this part of England. Just like Tutankhamun's famous tomb in Egypt, it is completely intact, with looters and 19th Century amateur archaeologists having been unable to find it as the mound on top of it collapsed. Sophie Jackson, director of research for MOLA, which was involved in studying the chamber, said: 'This is one of the most significant archaeological finds ever seen in England. 'It is the British equivalent of Tutankhamun's tomb as everything in it is just as it was left 1,400 years ago. 'It was found on an unpromising site, which is just really a grass verge, but this is an aristocratic burial site and the artefacts provide a great insight into religious life at the time.' Despite its unglamorous location, inside the chamber are 40 artefacts thought to have belonged to the ancient Essex prince Saexa. Pictured: Conservator Claire Reed, inspecting a decorated blue glass beaker which was discovered in the burial chamber The chamber discovered the Essex town of Prittlewell contains nothing of the prince thought to be buried there except some enamel fragments from his teeth. Pictured: Remains of the only surviving example of painted Anglo-Saxon woodwork in Britain The Anglo-Saxons were Pagans, but the Christian items found in the chamber suggest the religion was still important in England 1,400 years ago. Pictured: A gold belt buckle discovered in the burial chamber WHAT DO WE KNOW ABOUT THE BURIAL SITE? The Essex site is the earliest Anglo-Saxon royal burial chamber found in England. First thought to hold Anglo-Saxon King Saebert, it is now believed it could be the resting place of his brother, Prince Saexa. Just like Tutankhamun's tomb, the chamber was found completely intact, as it would have looked when the prince was buried 1,400 years ago. Gold crosses covering the body's eyes and on the coins in its hands show this was a Christian burial, but Anglo-Saxons at this early date were famously Pagans. For the first time, this suggests Christianity was important in southern England before the arrival of Augustine from Italy, who came to convert us. The chamber would have taken up to 25 men almost five days to build, using the wood from 13 oak trees. So much effort indicates a royal was buried inside, with 40 artefacts to take with him to the afterlife. Radiocarbon dating of a horn drinking cup and minted coins show the prince was probably buried between 580 and 605AD. Advertisement The chamber discovered the Essex town of Prittlewell contains nothing of the prince thought to be buried there except some enamel fragments from his teeth, which show he was older than six. But two gold foil crosses, thought to have been placed over his eyes, a gold belt buckle and shoe buckles suggest he was a man or teenager around five feet eight inches tall. The burial site was found by archaeologists in 2003 before the road it lies on was widened. Experts have spent 15 year excavating the chamber - which MOLA says took 113 working days to build and involved a huge investment in skilled labour and materials - to recreate what it may have looked like inside. Its age is now known for the first time, based on radiocarbon dating of a drinking horn in the chamber and coins buried with the body which bear the name of the mint in France they come from and were only produced after 580AD. The date of the chamber, now known to be between 580AD and 605AD, rules out that it contained King Saebert, as previously thought. Experts now believe his brother, Prince Saexa, was the one given such a grand send-off. Experts are fascinated by this time in English history as Anglo-Saxon kingdoms were emerging, with separate royal families in different parts of the country. Pictured: Conservator Claire Reed, inspecting decorated blue and green glass beakers discovered in the chamber The name Essex comes from the East Saxon families which ruled over this part of England. Researchers behind the find have hailed it as the 'British equivalent of Tutankhamun's tomb' - despite little similarities in appearance. Pictured: Gold coins discovered in the burial chamber WHAT DO WE KNOW ABOUT THE ANGLO-SAXONS IN ESSEX? The modern county of Essex was a kingdom in the Dark Ages that included London and Middlesex. The name Essex means 'Land of the East Saxons', who settled the region after migrating from North-West Germany and sailing up the River Thames. The first king was a man named Aescwin, who lived in the mid Sixth Century. He claimed that the Saxon god, Saxnot, was his ancestor. The kings are thought to have lived at Cripplegate in London and their Royal monastery was at St Paul's Cathedral. The kings often shared their kingdom between brothers and the most famous King of Essex was King Saexa. He ruled from 600 to 616 AD, during which time he converted to Christianity and helped St Mellitus set up St. Paul's Cathedral in London. He died in 617 AD and some researchers believe he was buried in Westminster Abbey. Others argue that he was probably buried in the Royal grave excavated at Prittlewell. The most recent findings suggest that, rather than the burial site of King Saebert, the grave in fact belonged to his brother, Prince Saexa. The date of the chamber, now known to be between 580AD and 605AD, rules out that it contained King Saebert, as previously thought. Experts now believe his brother, Prince Saexa, was the one given such a grand send-off. Royal families emerged in Anglo-Saxon times in Kent, Essex and across south-east England. Saebert and Seaxa's mother was from the Kentish royal family, but their maternal aunt, Bertha, was a French princess who married into their royal family and brought her Christian beliefs with her. That may explain the gold crosses on the prince's eyes and the coins in the chamber, which are clearly Christian, while the very idea of a burial chamber is Pagan. Advertisement It also contains the remnants of a stringed musical instrument called a lyre and a 1,400-year-old painted wooden box with decorations thought to show a ladder and fish scales. Gold braiding suggests the body had a cloth over his head. The sword, shield and spears in the chamber, the body's pristine golden buckle and an eastern Mediterranean flagon from a Christian pilgrimage site are the evidence that the man buried inside was a member of the royal family, who received expensive gifts from overseas. But he may still have been young, with Mrs Jackson adding: 'This man may have died before he could really prove himself, as we would have expected more bling in the site.' Some of the artefacts will be displayed at an exhibition at Central Museum in Southend which opens to the public on May 11. The burial site was found by archaeologists in 2003 before the road it lies on was widened, but its age is now known for the first time. Pictured: Archaeologists excavating the burial chamber That is based on radiocarbon dating of a drinking horn in the chamber and coins buried with the body which bear the name of the mint in France they come from and were only produced after 580AD. Pictured: Location of the royal burial site discovered beneath a roadside verge Reactor number four of the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant suffered an explosion during a technical test on April 26, 1986. As a result of the accident, in the then Soviet Union, more than 400 times more radiation was emitted than that released by the atomic bomb dropped on Hiroshima (Japan) in 1945. It remains the largest nuclear accident in history. Decontamination work began immediately after the accident. An exclusion zone was created around the plant, and more than 350,000 people were evacuated from the area. They never returned. And severe restrictions on permanent human settlement are still in place today. The accident had a major impact on the human population. Although there are not clear figures, the physical loss of human lives and physiological consequences were huge. Estimates of the number of human fatalities vary wildly. The initial impact on the environment was also important. Scroll down for video Wild Przewalski's horses can be seen on a snow covered field in the Chernobyl exclusions zone. In 1990, a handful of endangered Przewalski's (Dzungarian) horses were brought in the exclusions zone to see if they would take root. They did so with relish THE CHERNOBYL EXCLUSION ZONE In 1986 an explosion at the Chernobyl power plant in the former Soviet Union town of Pripyat leaked radioactive material into the environment. The explosion was caused by a fire in one of the nuclear reactors and the surrounding area was evacuated as a result. Around 116,000 people were permanently evacuated from the exclusion zone around the power plant, with villages and towns left to go to ruin. While radiation levels in the region is still considered too high for humans to return, wildlife has moved back into the 1,600 square mile (4,300 square km) Chernobyl Exclusion Zone (CEZ) and is flourishing. Many argue that the region should be given over to the animals which have become established in the area - creating a radioactive protected wildlife reserve. Studies of the animals and plants in the area around Chernobyl are now providing clues as to what the world would be like should humans suddenly disappear. Scientists are monitoring the health of plants and animals in the exclusion area to see how they react to chronic radiation exposure. Camera traps set up by researchers have captured a stunning array of local wildlife, including wolves, lynx, mouse, boars, deer, horses, and many others, as they wander through the area. It shows that three decades on from the disaster, the area is far from being a wasteland. Instead life is thriving there. Advertisement One of the areas more heavily affected by the radiation was the pine forest near the plant, known since then as the 'Red Forest'. This area received the highest doses of radiation, the pine trees died instantly and all the leaves turned red. Few animals survived the highest radiation levels. Therefore, after the accident it was assumed that the area would become a desert for life. Considering the long time that some radioactive compounds take to decompose and disappear from the environment, the forecast was that the area would remain devoid of wildlife for centuries. Chernobyl wildlife today But today, 33 years after the accident, the Chernobyl exclusion zone, which covers an area now in Ukraine and Belarus, is inhabited by brown bears, bisons, wolves, lynxes, Przewalski horses, and more than 200 bird species, among other animals. In March 2019, most of the main research groups working with Chernobyl wildlife met in Portsmouth, England. About 30 researchers from the United Kingdom, Ireland, France, Belgium, Norway, Spain and Ukraine presented the latest results of our work. These studies included work on big mammals, nesting birds, amphibians, fish, bumblebees, earthworms, bacteria and leaf litter decomposition. These studies showed that at present the area hosts great biodiversity. In addition, they confirmed the general lack of big negative effects of current radiation levels on the animal and plant populations living in Chernobyl. All the studied groups maintain stable and viable populations inside the exclusion zone. A clear example of the diversity of wildlife in the area is given by the TREE project (TRansfer-Exposure-Effects, led by Nick Beresford of the UK's Centre for Ecology and Hydrology). As part of this project, motion detection cameras were installed for several years in different areas of the exclusion zone. An otter swims in a river in the 30 km (19 miles) exclusion zone around the Chernobyl nuclear reactor in the abandoned village of Pogonnoe, Belarus, March 13, 2016 Decades after the Chernobyl nuclear disaster, booming populations of wolf, elk and other wildlife in the vast contaminated zone in Belarus and Ukraine provide a clue A yellowhammer is seen on the remains of a house at the 30 km (19 miles) exclusion zone around the Chernobyl nuclear reactor in the abandoned village of Orevichi, Belarus, March 12, 2016 The photos recorded by these cameras reveal the presence of abundant fauna at all levels of radiation. These cameras recorded the first observation of brown bears and European bison inside the Ukrainian side of the zone, as well as the increase in the number of wolves and Przewalski horses. Our own work with the amphibians of Chernobyl has also detected abundant populations across the exclusion zone, even on the more contaminated areas. Furthermore, we have also found signs that could represent adaptive responses to life with radiation. For instance, frogs within the exclusion zone are darker than frogs living outside it, which is a possible defence against radiation. Studies have also detected some negative effects of radiation at an individual level. For example, some insects seem to have a shorter lifespan and are more affected by parasites in areas of high radiation. Some birds also have higher levels of albinism, as well as physiological and genetic alterations when living in highly contaminated localities. Over 100,000 people had to abandon the area permanently, leaving native animals the sole occupants of a cross-border 'exclusion zone' roughly the size of Luxembourg A radiation sign is seen in the exclusion zone around the Chernobyl nuclear reactor in the abandoned village of Dronki, Belarus But these effects don't seem to affect the maintenance of wildlife population in the area. The general absence of negative effects of radiation on Chernobyl wildlife can be a consequence of several factors: First, wildlife could be much more resistant to radiation than previously thought. Another alternative possibility is that some organisms could be starting to show adaptive responses that would allow them to cope with radiation and live inside the exclusion zone without harm. In addition, the absence of humans inside the exclusion zone could be favouring many species big mammals in particular. That final option would suggest that the pressures generated by human activities would be more negative for wildlife in the medium-term than a nuclear accident a quite revealing vision of the human impact on the natural environment. The future of Chernobyl In 2016 the Ukrainian part of the exclusion zone was declared a radiological and environmental biosphere reserve by the national government. Over the years, Chernobyl has also become an excellent natural laboratory for the study of evolutionary processes in extreme environments, something that could prove valuable given the rapid environmental changes experienced worldwide. On April 26, 1986, a botched test at the nuclear plant in Ukraine, then a Soviet republic, sent clouds of smouldering radioactive material across large swathes of Europe. Now, wildlife thrives there At present, several projects are trying to resume human activities in the area. Tourism has flourished in Chernobyl, with more than 70,000 visitors in 2018. There also plans for developing solar power plants in the area, and for expanding forestry work. Last year, there was even an art installation and techno party inside the abandoned city of Prypiat. Over the past 33 years, Chernobyl has gone from the being considered a potential dessert for life to being an area of high interest for biodiversity conservation. It may sound strange, but now we need to work to maintain the integrity of the exclusion zone as a nature reserve if we want to guarantee that in the future Chernobyl will remain a refuge for wildlife. Life expectancy of more than 100 years will soon become commonplace as advances in technology tackle the problem of ageing, experts say. A Bank of America report that predicts that death-delaying technologies will be one of the biggest investment areas over the next decade. This market is already worth 85 billion ($110 billion), a value that the investment bank expects to rise to around 462 billion ($600 billion) by 2025. Developments in the exploration and editing of the human genome, artificial intelligence and disease treatment are among areas highlighted by the report. Scroll down for video Life expectancy of more than 100 years will soon become commonplace as advances in technology tackle the problem of ageing, experts say. Investigation and editing of the human genome is projected to become around a $41 billion industry by 2025 (stock image) The Bank of America report was written by Merrill Lynch analysts Felix Tran and Haim Israel. 'Medical knowledge will double every 73 days by 2020, versus every 3.5 [years] in 2010,' Mr Israel and Mr Tran told CBNC. 'Genomic sequencing costs have fallen 99.999% since 2003,' they added. 'This has enabled a new frontier in precision medicine to further extend life expectancy, heralding a 'techmanity' technology meets humanity revolution.' The quest to put off death, dubbed 'ammortality', is expected to be a massive market by 2025, one with potential to be worth around 388 billion ($504 billion). According to Mr Israel and Mr Tran, ammortality 'will help to improve health spans & lifespans to the betterment of human vitality, enabling the world population to live freer of disease, rather than forever.' Examples of companies exploring this space, the Bank of America notes, include technology firms such as Intuitive Surgical and medical device company Zimmer Biomet. The latter has recently collaborated with Apple to launch a clinical study of around 10,000 knee and hip replacement patients. A Bank of America report that predicts that death-delaying technologies will be one of the biggest investment areas over the next decade. AI and big data techniques in healthcare are expected to be of increasing use to researchers (stock photo) WHAT ARE THE FIVE KEY AREAS FLAGGED BY THE REPORT? Ammortality developments that will help humankind to live longer and healthier lives. Genomics this includes both mapping out, studying and editing the human genome. 'Moonshot Medicines' revolutionary cures and therapies for challenging diseases like cystic fibrosis and Parkinson's. Artificial Intelligence and Big Data applying advanced computing techniques to healthcare is already improving diagnoses. Future foods which could see both the adoption of gene editing techniques by agriculture, as well as the promotion of healthier lifestyles. Advertisement Another growing market is the field of genomics, one that is projected to become around a 32 billion ($41 billion) industry by 2025 and includes the investigation and editing of the human genome. Genomics will provide the 'next generation of gene editing technology offering potentially revolutionary advances in prevention and disease treatments,' the analysts said. Current companies working in the area include the 68 billion ($89 billion)-worth life science equipment maker Danaher, the 21 billion ($27 billion) lab instrument manufacturer Agilent and the 35 billion ($46 billion) genome sequencer Illumina. The latter, in particular, is playing 'an important role in helping advance disease research, drug development, and the creation of molecular tests,' Mr Tran and Mr Israel wrote. In a similar vein, companies offering revolutionary health care solutions to treat challenging diseases such as Alzheimer's, cystic fibrosis and Parkinson's will remain popular investment opportunities. Current names in this area of so-called 'moonshot medicine' include Sangamo Therapeutics, bio-pharmaceutical company Neurocrine Biosciences and Vertex Pharma. The application of artificial intelligence and big data techniques to healthcare is expected to be of increasing use to researchers studying the causes and effects of diseases. This is a market space which is expected to grow by 28 billion ($36 billion) in value by 2025 and presently includes such names as Amazon, Google parent company Alphabet and Apple. Mr Israel and Mr Tran said that developments in this area have the potential to lower health-related costs while enhancing precision medicine techniques. The Bank of America report also anticipates a growing expectation that food manufacturers will ensure 'healthier eating and sustainable humanity'. Companies such as Dow DuPont and WW (formerly Weight Watchers) International should work, the report suggests, to take advantage of agricultural gene editing techniques as well as the promotion of healthier consumption habits and lifestyles. Sudden weather changes 8,000-years-ago may have caused widespread decline in South American populations that lasted two millennia, scientists say. Cross-referencing data from over a thousand sites with climate records, archaeologists showed that erratic rainfall had large scale impact across the region. Indigenous South American population were thriving before and after the abrupt climate change episode which saw sites abandoned across the continent. Recovery around 6,000-years-ago is evident as local populations developed new and alternative crop cultivation strategies to cope with the natural environment. Scroll down for video A major period of decline in South American populations between 8,000 to 6,000 years ago was caused by inconsistent weather patterns resulting from climate change In a new study, archaeologists examined data from sites across South America to try to understand how population changed over time in the region during the Middle Holocene era (spanning 8,200 and 4,200 years ago). The South American population thrived both before and after around 2,000 years of decline between 8, 200-6,200-years-ago. Collecting data from nearly 1,400 locations across the region, 5,000 radiocarbon dates were taken and cross-referenced with climate data from the same period. The study from University College London (UCL) was the first to demonstrate how widespread the decline in population in South America was during the first half of the Middle Holocene period. Significant change to habits has been observed during this time, when hunter-gatherer populations were experimenting with different domestic plants, and forming new cultural habits to suit both landscape and climate change. Dr Philip Riris from the UCL Institute of Archaeology and, author of the latest study said: 'Archaeologists working in South America have broadly known that some 8,200 years ago, inhabited sites in various places across the continent were suddenly abandoned. 'Unpredictable levels of rainfall, particularly in the tropics, appear to have had a negative impact on pre-Columbian populations until 6,000 years ago, after which recovery is evident. 'Recovery appears to correlate with cultural practices surrounding tropical plant management and early crop cultivation, possibly acting as buffers when wild resources were less predictable.' By cross-referencing data from more than a thousand sites on the continent with climate data, scientists were able to show that unpredictable levels of rainfall caused widespread and severe the decline. Stock image. Dr Riris added: 'We studied ancient records of rainfall such as marine sediments for evidence of exceptional climate events. 'Within windows of 100 years, we compared the Middle Holocene to the prevalent patterns before and after 8,200 years ago. 'Normal patterns of rainfall suggest on average an unusually dry or wet year every 16-20 years, while under highly variable conditions this increases to every 5 years or so. 'This puts in perspective the challenge that indigenous communities would have faced.' Co-author on the study, Dr Manuel Arroyo-Kalin added: 'Viewed in the context of at least 14,000 years of human presence in South America, the events of the Middle Holocene are a key part of indigenous South Americans' cultural resilience to abrupt and unexpected change.' He also explained that in the years leading up to population decline 8, 000 years ago, population sizes were unharmed by changes in weather. This may indicate that early Holocene populations had social memory of abrupt climate change from the previous transition era that may have helped them develop successful strategies to deal with climate change. The authors said that the research offers crucial historical context on how ancient indigenous South American populations dealt with climate change. The full report is published in Scientific Reports. NASA's ambitious plan to put humans back on the moon could be at risk of severe delays due to a 'lack of planning'. Members of US Congress grilled space agency bosses over their preparations for a 2024 mission and NASA's failure to put forward a viable plan. Mike Pence announced the five-year deadline in March and challenged NASA to meet the target. NASA administrator Jim Bridenstine added a week later, on April 2, that the agency would 'get really close' to delivering a plan by April 15. So far, there has been no plan proposed by NASA, and the US government is now vocalising its concerns. Scroll down for video Vice President Mike Pence announced the five-year deadline in March at the fifth meeting of the National Space Council in Huntsville, Alabama and challenged NASA to meet the target (pictured) According to The Verge, Representative Kendra Horn said: 'The lack of planning evidence so far is no way to run our nation's human space exploration programme. 'The 2024 missive left NASA in a tizzy scrambling to develop a plan and hastening to pull together a budget amendment that still has not been delivered to Congress.' The announcement from Mike Pence on March 26 was a marked acceleration on NASA's existing plans, which earmarked 2028 for its manned missions. The deadline for the amendment, which would include costs and details of the mission, has now been missed by three weeks. NASA claims it is using the time to fine tune its proposal. William Gerstenmaier, NASA's associate administrator for human exploration, said: 'We recognise that this is a really serious challenge we have to weigh in front of us, and we need a really solid plan. 'We need to make sure it's all integrated and all put together in a way that really makes sense.' The House Science Committee is now vocalising its obvious frustration at the situation. But Mr Gerstenmaier says it will take a further week to two weeks to iron out the details before it can be sent to the US government. NASA administrator Jim Bridenstine (pictured) added a week later, at the start of April, that the agency would get 'really close' to delivering a plan by April 15. So far, there has been no plan proposed by NASA, and the US government is now vocalising its concerns. NASA officials also refused to directly answer questions on the annual cost of the mission. Mark Sirangelo, a special assistant to the NASA administrator, navigated this pointed question with the answer: 'At this point in time it's still under discussion.' NASAs plans to send humans to the moon rely on its upcoming Space Launch System (SLS) rocket and the Orion crew capsule. But, SLS has faced numerous delays over the years, and the agency just recently revealed it will not be ready for the uncrewed Exploration Mission-1, which will serve as crucial proving ground for subsequent missions with crew on board. Despite the mounting obstacles, the Trump administration says it's eyeing a much sooner deadline than NASA had previously planned for. 'Since the end of Apollo 11, weve forged incredible breakthroughs in our technology that have allowed us to go further, more safely in space than ever before,' Vice President Pence said in March. 'We have the technology to go the moon and renew American leadership in human space exploration.' 'Just as the United States was the first nation to reach the moon in the 20th century, so too will we be the first nation to return astronauts to the moon in the 21st century,' Pence said. SLS and Orion were expected to be ready for their first uncrewed test flight in 2020. Delays in the schedule now indicate SLS won't be ready, and a workaround may be required. An artist's impression of Orion is shown Getting humans to the moon poses enormous issued for NASA, and it has already been struggling to meet its deadlines. Instead of using its own SLS rocket for the initial uncrewed tests, for example, NASA said previously that it may instead have to use a commercially developed rockets in order to stay on schedule. SLS and Orion were expected to be ready for their first uncrewed test flight in 2020. Though no company was named that could provide a substitute for SLS, SpaceX's Falcon Heavy and United Launch Alliance's Delta IV may be the only contenders. Even with this solution, though, the plan will require extensive workarounds. While NASA's Space Launch System (SLS) would be able to boost Orion and the European Service Module to orbit on its own, theres no rocket currently in existence capable of doing that. To get the two components into orbit around the moon as planned, NASA will need two heavy-lift rockets one to launch Orion and ESM, and a second to launch an upper stage that will dock with Orion in Earths orbit and give it a boost to the moon. Pence's statement and the revised schedule was a baffling departure from the agency's previously discussed plans. Construction on the Lunar Orbital Platform-Gateway an orbiting lunar outpost that will facilitate human exploration isn't expected to begin until 2022 at the earliest. Mixing condiments might be unpleasant on the dinner plate but in the lab it is helping experts explore a problem that is stopping nuclear fusion. Researchers from the US spun a box containing a layer of mayonnaise around and watched how the condiment gradually bled into another lighter material. Mayonnaise behaves like an elastic-plastic material, just like the molten metal capsules found in active inertial confinement fusion reactors. These prototype power generators fail to work because the metal capsules mix with the plasma they're built to contain and burst before fusion can ignite. Researchers found that the mayonnaise surface remained intact for longer if initial disturbances to the materials were kept to a minimum. These findings are being fed into a computer model currently under development at the Los Alamos National Laboratory in New Mexico. Combined with other research this model may hold the key to unlocking unlimited emission-free power. Mixing condiments might be unpleasant on the dinner plate but in the lab it is helping experts explore a problem that is stopping nuclear fusion. Using a high-speed camera, the team monitored how the mayonnaise's surface reshaped (pictured) Lehigh University mechanical engineer Arindam Banerjee and colleagues studied how materials act in extreme environments, which call for creative substitutions. In this study, Hellman's Real Mayonnaise was used as a stand-in for molten metal because the condiment at room temperatures has similar properties to metals at high temperatures, with both behaving like an elastic-plastic material. Researchers poured the mayo into a plexiglass container, along with a second, lighter material, both of which were then subjected to wave-like disturbance before being accelerated on a rotating wheel. The team used a high-speed camera to monitor how the mayonnaise's surface responded to the acceleration. They then used a computer algorithm to analyse the changes. 'In the presence of gravity or any accelerating field the two materials penetrate one another like "fingers",' Professor Banerjee said. Researchers call the point where the mayonnaise surface begins to mix with the other material the 'instability threshold'. The onset of this instability is related to both the size and the frequency of the initial wave-like disturbances applied to the two materials, they found. With both two- and three-dimensional disturbances, the surface interface between the materials was more stable if the initial disturbances were smaller and higher in frequency. This means that, under such starting conditions, the materials can be spun faster before they begin to mix. 'There has been an ongoing debate in the scientific community about whether instability growth is a function of the initial conditions or a more local catastrophic process,' Professor Banerjee added. 'Our experiments confirm the former conclusion: that interface growth is strongly dependent on the choice of initial conditions, such as amplitude and wavelength.' Mayonnaise behaves like an elastic-plastic material, just like the molten metal capsules found in active inertial confinement fusion reactors. These prototype power generators fail to work because the metal capsules mix with the plasma they're built to contain and burst (stock) The mixing of materials of different densities like this, where unstable layers form because the density and pressure changes involved are opposite in direction, is an example of what scientists call a Rayleigh-Taylor instability. Until now, studies of the instability had mostly been limited to working with liquids and gases and little had been known about how accelerated solids mix. This was because accelerated solids mix so quickly and are challenging to measure. Better understanding how the Rayleigh-Taylor instability emerges could help to solve various challenges in the fields of astrophysics and geophysics, in industrial processes such as explosive welding, and in high-energy density physics problems relating to inertial confinement fusion. The latter is something Professor Banerjee and colleagues are directly involved with addressing, in tandem with both the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory's National Ignition Facility, in California, and the Los Alamos National Laboratory in New Mexico. Inertial confinement fusion is a type of nuclear reactor concept in which energy-producing atom fusion reactions are set off by heating and compressing a fuel target. These targets are typically pin-head-sized pellets that contain the hydrogen isotopes deuterium and tritium. Inertial confinement fusion is a type of nuclear reactor concept in which atom fusion reactions are set off by heating and compressing a fuel target. Each of these targets (pictured, stock image) are typically tiny pellets that contain the hydrogen isotopes deuterium and tritium Nuclear fusion is an attractive energy source, having the potential to offer vast amounts of power without harmful emissions or the long-lived radioactive waste that is generated by conventional, fission-based nuclear power stations. In 'indirect drive' fusion setups, the fuel targets are surrounded by metal casings, the inner sides of which are heated up to around 222 million degrees Celsius (400 million degrees Fahrenheit) in a matter of nanoseconds using high-powered-lasers. Unfortunately, the process has a flaw the laser heating causes the metal capsules to melt, allowing the compressed gas to burst out, exploding the capsule before the reactor reaches the necessary ignition point of the fusion process. Professor Banerjee likened this issue to what happens when you squeeze a balloon. 'As the balloon compresses, the air inside pushes against the material confining it, trying to move out,' Professor Banerjee said. 'At some point, the balloon will burst under pressure,' he added. 'The same thing happens in a fusion capsule; the mixing of the gas and molten metal causes an explosion.' If researchers could stop these two parts from mixing in the first place, this hurdle to developing a working nuclear fusion reactor would be removed. To do this, Professor Banerjee explained, you must first understand exactly how the molten metal and the heated gas are mixing in the first place. The researchers' mayonnaise-based experimental setup is a step towards this one that allows them to explore how accelerated materials mix in isolation, freed from the complicating factors of extreme temperatures and incipient nuclear reactions. The team's device, which took four years to build, is the first of its kind that can study the mixing between two materials under conditions that are relevant to those seen in inertial confinement fusion reactor prototypes. The data from the mayo tests will ultimately be fed into a model of the exploding fuel capsule problem that is being developed by experts at the Los Alamos National Lab. 'They have taken a very complicated problem and isolated it into six or seven smaller problems,' said Professor Banerjee, explaining that different groups of researchers are tackling the different parts of the issue. 'There are materials scientists working on certain aspects of the problem' he added, and 'there are researchers like me who are focused on the fluid mechanics.' Together, these threads are 'all feeding into different models that will be combined in the future,' he said. The full findings of the study were published in the journal Physical Review E. WhatsApp has announced that it will stop working on all Windows smartphones in around six months time. The messaging app will no longer work on handsets powered by the Microsoft software in December 2019, a spokesperson wrote in a blog post. They also warned that some WhatsApp features might stop working at 'any time' on these devices, which Microsoft discontinued in 2017. 'You'll no longer be able to use all Windows Phone operating systems after December 31, 2019,' they wrote. 'Because we no longer actively develop for these operating systems, some features might stop functioning at any time.' Scroll down for video WhatsApp has announced that it will stop working on all smartphones operated by Windows in around six months time. The messaging app will no longer work on handsets powered by Microsofts software in December 2019, it wrote in a blog post yesterday (file photo) The statement follows Microsoft's decision to end support for the software from December the same year, advising people to buy iOS or Android devices. WhatsApp also announced that by 2020, they will also withdraw support on Android versions 2.3.7 and older, or iOS 7 and older. Windows Phone operating system was launched in October 2010 and then succeeded by Windows 10 mobile in 2015. In 2017, Microsoft announced that work on Windows 10 Mobile was drawing to a close due to lack of market penetration and dearth of interest from app developers. It will officially stop supporting Windows 10 Mobile, previously referred to as Windows Phones, starting December 10th, 2019. The statement follows Microsoft's decision to end support for the software from December the same year, advising people to buy iOS or Android devices. They also announced that by 2020, they will also withdraw support on Android versions 2.3.7 and older, or iOS 7 and older At that point, users will no longer receive 'new security updates, non-security hotfixes, free assisted support options, or online technical content updates from Microsoft for free,'the company announced. 'With the Windows 10 Mobile OS end of support, we recommend that customers move to a supported Android or iOS device,' the company explained. 'Microsofts mission statement to empower every person and every organization on the planet to achieve more, compels us to support our Mobile apps on those platforms and devices.' In an attempt to hold a spot on mobile, Microsoft has bought the Windows 10 PC browser, Edge to Android and iOS. The browser allows users to share websites, apps, photos and other information between phones and Windows PC. A self-driving robot is being trialled in a Ford manufacturing plant in Spain that can overcome obstructions and carry cargo. The robot, similar in appearance to the Wall-E trash-crushing robot from Pixar, has been nicknamed 'Survival' and was developed by Ford's own engineers. It uses Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) technology to visualise its surroundings and guides itself autonomously. Survival's body includes an automated shelf with 17 drawers of different sizes that holds various materials and tools. A self-driving robot 'Survival' (pictured) is being trialled in a Ford manufacturing plant in Spain to overcome obstructions and move cargo around Its makers say that the robot is designed to work alongside human employees and not replace them. Its main purpose will be for time-consuming and mundane roles which could save up to 40 employee hours each day. The robot, which looks like a chest of draws on wheels, has numbered slots that open and close automatically. This means that it can be programmed so that each operator only has access to a particular slot and the materials assigned to them. Eduardo Garcia Magraner, engineering manager at Ford's body and stamping plant in Valencia, Spain, where the robot is being trialled said: 'We programmed it to learn the whole of the plant floor so, together with sensors, it doesn't need any external guides to navigate.' The main role of the robots is to delivering spare parts and welding material to different stations around the plant, something that Ford says is key to maintaining the production of its Kuga, Mondeo and S-MAX models. Using LiDAR technology to get around obstructions, its makers say the automation also helps avoid errors in the plant. According to its engineers, the robot can overtake the time-consuming and mundane tasks currently performed by humans. Its body holds a shelf with 17 draw slots (1-9 pictured) of different sizes that can hold materials of different weights and sizes Nicknamed 'Survival' because of its ability to adapt to its environment, the smart robot delivers spare parts around the plants, dodging unforeseen objects, changing its route if obstructed Using Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) technology to get around obstructions, its makers say the the automation also helps avoid errors in the plant. The robot's makers say that the robot replaces humans only in time-consuming and mundane roles and saves up to 40 employee hours each day. Nicknamed 'Survival' because of its ability to adapt to its environment, the smart robot delivers spare parts around the plants, dodging unforeseen objects, changing its route if obstructed. Mr Magarner added: 'When it first started you could see employees thinking they were in some kind of sci-fi movie, stopping and staring as it went by. 'Now they just get on with their jobs knowing the robot is smart enough to work around them.' 'It's been on trial for almost a year now and has performed faultlessly to-date. It's become quite a valuable team member. 'Hopefully we can put it into full-time use shortly and expand into other Ford facilities.' Survival is one of a number of smart robots employed in Ford's European facilities, including the 'Robutt' and co-bots in Cologne, Germany. Penguins and seal droppings are enriching biodiversity across the Antarctic peninsula as far as a away 0.6miles (one km) from where they are made. This equates to a landmass area up to 240 times the size of the animals' colonies, say scientists. Antarctic winds blow the evaporated nitrate in their faeces inland creating hotspots of enriched soil that support a variety of animal and plant habitats. Man made climate change and invasive species could however threaten these new areas, researchers warned. Scroll down for video Penguins and seal droppings are enriching biodiversity across the Antarctic peninsula as far as a away 0.6miles (one km) from where their droppings are made (stock image) Researchers from Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam braved the cold of the Antarctic to examine species populations across the Antarctic region for the latest study. They waded through fields of animal waste and groups of clamouring elephant seals, gentoo, chinstrap, and Adelie penguin to study the soils and plants surrounding these animal colonies. At the end of the study, they found that the influence of the colony's excrement - and the fertilising ammonia within - extended more than 1,000 meters beyond where they were dropped. Dr Stef Bokhorst, a researcher in the department of ecological sciences at the university and author on the report said: 'What we see is that the poo produced by seals and penguins partly evaporates as ammonia. 'Then, the ammonia gets picked up by the wind and is blown inland, and this makes its way into the soil and provides the nitrogen that primary producers need in order to survive in this landscape.' This creates a circle of nutrient enrichment around the colony known as the nitrogen footprint. In the current study, the process allowed the ammonia to enrich an area up to 240 times the size of the colony and create a thriving community of mosses and lichens. These in turn supports the growth of small invertebrates like springtails and mites, the researchers found. The researchers concluded that a colony's nitrogen footprint has little to do with how cold or dry the region is but is instead is strongly dependent on the the number of animals and the amount of droppings made. Antarctic wind carries the evaporated nitrate in their faeces inland where they can enrich a landmass area which is up to 240 times the size of their colonies. Photo shows the glacier at the stony shore of Half Moon Island, Antarctic (stock image) Speaking of these growing habitats, Dr Bokhorst added: 'You can find millions of them per square meter here, but in grasslands in the US or Europe, there are only about 50,000 to 100,000 per square meter.' He also noted that it took months and months of sitting in the lab counting and ID-tagging samples they collected under a microscope to map the area's biodiversity. Using this information, Dr Bokhorst and his colleagues were able to map biodiversity hotspots across the peninsula. Importantly, these maps can be easily updated using satellite images to determine the location and size of breeding colonies, freeing future researchers from having to conduct fieldwork. Dr Bokhorst warns however that a major threat to the existing biodiversity they observed is climate change and human activity. The vibrant invertebrate communities on the peninsula experience very low predation, but the introduction of invasive plant species, whose seeds can be blown from South Africa and South America or carried into the system by seabirds and humans, might change this. Furthermore, they could mature into habitats that harbour less favourable species in the region. Dr Bokhurst added: 'Just as the penguin and seal colonies enrich the soil for native plants, it's also possible that they are making it ideal for invasive species as well, which could be hardier and provide shelter for predatory insects like spiders and beetles.' 'Right now, the system is too unproductive to support any mammals like rats and mice,' he said. The full findings are reported in the the journal Current Biology Uralic languages like Estonian and Finnish likely did not evolve in Europe, but instead were imported from Siberia at the beginning of the Iron Age 2,500 years ago. Most Europeans are descendants of a mixture of European hunter-gatherers, Anatolian early farmers and Steppe herders. However, the DNA of ancient Siberians can also be found in European speakers of Uralic languages, like Estonian and Finnish. Using ancient DNA from the teeth of 33 individuals, researchers have now determined when this Siberian genetic influence first arrived in northeast Europe. The researchers find that this influx came at about the same time the Uralic languages were first beginning to diversify. This suggests that Uralic languages did not evolve in Europe, but instead were brought to the Baltic by migrants from Siberia. Uralic languages like Estonian and Finnish likely did not evolve in Europe, but instead were imported from Siberia at the beginning of the Iron Age 2,500 years ago. Siberian DNA (illustrated) reached the Baltic Sea no later than the middle of the first millennium BC. Experts had known that modern-day peoples who speak Uralic languages also typically share a common Siberian ancestry. However, the time that these Siberian imports arrived in the Eastern Baltic had not been certain. To find out, Lehti Saag and Kristiina Tambets both of the University of Tartu, Estonia and their colleagues analysed ancient DNA extracted from the roots of 33 individuals' teeth from the Eastern Baltic that date between 3,200400 years ago. 'Studying ancient DNA makes it possible to pinpoint the moment in time when the genetic components that we see in modern populations reached the area,' said Saag. 'Instead of predicting past events based on modern genomes, we are analysing the DNA of individuals who actually lived in a particular time in the past.' he added. Researchers found that people with Siberian DNA reached the coasts of the Baltic Sea no later than the middle of the first millennium BC. The Siberian genetic heritage is preserved in the individuals Y chromosomes and their autosomes, the non-sex chromosomes just as it is in modern Uralic-speaking populations. This was around the same time that west Uralic/Finnic languages were diversifying. 'The transition from Bronze to Iron Age coincides with the diversification and arrival time of Finnic languages in the Eastern Baltic proposed by linguists,' said Ms Saag. Therefore, she continued, 'it is plausible that the people who brought Siberian ancestry to the region also brought Uralic languages with them.' The Siberian genetic heritage is preserved in the individuals Y chromosomes and their autosomes just as it is in modern Uralic-speaking populations. Pictured: A street scene in modern day Finland (stock) The findings also suggest that in the Bronze Age there was an influx of migration from regions with strong Western-hunter gatherer characteristics that today we typically associate with Northern Europeans. 'The Bronze Age individuals from the Eastern Baltic show an increase in hunter-gatherer ancestry compared to Late Neolithic people and also in the frequency of light eyes, hair, and skin and lactose tolerance,' Dr Tambets added. The researchers are now expanding the scope of their investigations so that they can better understand the various migrations across Europe during the Iron Age. At the same time, they said, they will also 'move forward in time and focus on the genetic structure of the medieval time period.' The full findings of the study were published in the journal Current Biology. Advertisement Blue Origin is now in the running to put Americans back on the moon by 2024. Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos has revealed the ambitious next steps for his aerospace company at a highly-secretive media event in Washington, D.C. on Thursday. During the event, which kicked off at 4 p.m., the billionaire and Blue Origin founder started off by sharing elaborate concept images of self-sustaining space habitats reminiscent of the film Interstellar, with lush greenery and futuristic homes within its walls. But, the real star of the talk turned out to be something much closer to home the moon. On stage, Bezos took the wraps off a massive model of what will be the firms first lunar lander, dubbed Blue Moon. This is an incredible vehicle, and its going to the moon, Bezos said, according to CNN, which live-blogged the event. According to the CEO, the lander has been in development for the last three years and is on track for a 2024 crewed moon landing falling in line with the five-year deadline revealed earlier this year by Vice President Mike Pence. The plan could ultimately serve as a stepping stone for colonization of the moon and deeper space targets, Bezos suggested. Scroll down for video Blue Origin is now in the running to put Americans back on the moon by 2024. Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos has revealed the ambitious next steps for his aerospace company at a highly-secretive media event in Washington, D.C. on Thursday. On stage, Bezos took the wraps off a massive model of what will be the firms first lunar lander, dubbed Blue Moon 'It's time to go back to the moon, this time to stay,' Bezos said during the event, according to CNN, mirroring a statement made repeatedly over the past few months by NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine. Blue Origin says its lunar lander will be able to carry all sorts of payloads to the surface and can hold multiple metric tons. The craft will enable a sustained human presence on the moon, the company said. And, according to the CEO, the company already has about six customers. The lander builds upon technology the firm has been testing over the past few years in its New Shepard rocket, including propulsion and precision guidance, as well as the vertical landing system. The firm has quietly been developing Blue Moon for years. According to CNN, Blue Origin is also developing a new rocket engine specifically for its planned moon landings. The system, called BE-7, has been in the works for three years. Blue Origin says it could conduct the first test fire as soon as this summer. Bezos also delved into his visions for human colonization of the moon and eventually, deep space, touching on the concept of self-sustaining ONeill colonies exponentially larger than the International Space Station where humans and animals could live. Blue Origin says its lunar lander will be able to carry all sorts of payloads to the surface and can hold multiple metric tons. According to the CEO, the lander has been in development for the last three years and is on track for a 2024 crewed moon landing falling in line with the five-year deadline revealed earlier this year by Vice President Mike Pence Jeff Bezos announces Blue Moon, a lunar landing vehicle for the Moon, during a Blue Origin event in Washington, DC, May 9, 2019 Earths resources alone wont be able to sustain humanity forever even with energy conservation, the mogul noted during the event, according to CNN. Considering the possibility of a future that relies on strict rationing, Bezos suggests we must look toward space in order to continue thriving. Thats the path that we would be on,' he said, according to CNN. It would lead for the first time to where your children and grandchildren have worse lives than you. That's a bad path. The event was first teased last month in a cryptic tweet from the Blue Origin Twitter account, where it shared an image of explorer Ernest Shackleton's Endurance, a polar exploration ship lost to the ice in in 1915. Additionally, in a notice sent to the reporters, the company said it 'will give an update on [Blue Origin's] progress and share our vision of going to space to benefit Earth.' Jeff Bezos, owner of Blue Origin, unveils a rocket engine that will be used on a new lunar landing module called Blue Moon During the event, which kicked off at 4 p.m on Thursday, the billionaire and Blue Origin founder started off by sharing elaborate concept images of self-sustaining space habitats reminiscent of the film Interstellar, with lush greenery and futuristic homes within its walls Bezos also delved into his visions for human colonization of the moon and eventually, deep space, touching on the concept of self-sustaining ONeill colonies exponentially larger than the International Space Station where humans and animals could live. The moon landing plan could ultimately serve as a stepping stone for colonization of the moon and deeper space targets WHAT IS THE BLUE MOON LANDER? Blue Origin unveiled its lunar lander during a secretive event in May Jeff Bezos has revealed his space exploration company's new lunar lander, dubbed Blue Moon. The spacecraft is capable of carrying and delivering payloads to the moon's surface. 'This is an incredible vehicle and it's going to the moon,' Bezos said. Blue Origin has long called out a mission to the moon as one of its foremost priorities and spent the past three years working to develop the craft. It harnesses many of the same 'propulsion, precision guidance, vertical landing and landing gear systems' utilized by New Shepard, Blue Origin's rocket meant to ferry humans to the moon. The craft is equipped with fuel cells to provide 'kilowatts of power' that are capable of lasting for long-distance missions. Once Blue Moon arrives at its destination, it uses machine learning algorithms to land with precision on the lunar surface. Blue Moon can deliver several metric tons of payload to the moon, thanks to its top deck and lower bays, the latter of which will allow for 'closer access to the lunar surface and off-loading,' the firm said. With this technology, Blue Origin hopes it will prepare us to be able to send humans back to the moon as soon as 2024. The spacecraft is capable of carrying and delivering payloads to the moon's surface. 'This is an incredible vehicle and it's going to the moon,' Bezos said Advertisement Blue Origin also shared a copy of the 'Earthrise' photo taken by NASA astronauts during the Apollo 8 mission, in addition to the image of Endurance it tweeted out. Several Blue Origin fans were quick to point out that the image of Endurance may be an obscure reference to a future lunar mission. As it turns out, they were correct. A crater located on the south pole of the moon, called Shackleton, was named after the famed explorer, suggesting that Bezos may have some lunar-related announcements up his sleeve. The Shackleton crater is located in the expansive South Pole-Aitken Basin, one of the largest known impact craters in the solar system, that spans 1,600 miles and is approximately eight miles deep. Scientists have long had their eye on the Aitken Basin, as they believe it could hold a bounty of life-sustaining resources. NASA hopes to conduct a mission to the moon's south pole as soon as 2024, while China's Chang'e 6 lander aims to explore the lunar south pole. Many scientists are eyeing this area of the moon as they believe it could be host to huge sheets of ice that could be mined for drinking water or converted into hydrogen and oxygen for rocket fuel or oxygen to breathe. Many were quick to point out that Blue Moon is already used by the popular brewing company. Blue Moon Brewing Co quickly jumped into the conversation on Twitter The craft will enable a sustained human presence on the moon, the company said. And, according to the CEO, the company already has about six customers The event was teased in a cryptic tweet from Blue Origin's Twitter account, where it shared an image of explorer Ernest Shackleton's Endurance, an exploration ship lost to the ice in in 1915 NASA'S PLAN TO PUT HUMANS BACK ON THE MOON NASA could have humans back on the moon within the next five years under the latest orders from the Trump administration. Vice President Mike Pence revealed the new deadline during a speech at the fifth meeting of the National Space Council in Huntsville, Alabama today, where he told an audience that the president wants astronauts to touch down on the lunar south pole by 2024. The VP called on NASA to reignite the spark of urgency for space exploration and make it a priority to set bold goals and stay on schedule. This accelerated timeline, however will undoubtedly be met with many challenges; just weeks ago NASA said it was on schedule to have humans on the moon by 2028 a full four years later than the new target. Advertisement In turn, it could help sustain future human colonies on the moon. Blue Origin has also discussed its plans to build and launch a lunar lander, revealing concept images of the spacecraft in 2018. 'The future will be better for our children - and our children's children - if we use space to benefit life on Earth and enable millions of people to live and work in space,' the company said. 'The next logical step in this path is a return to the Moon. To do this we need reusable access to the lunar surface and its resources.' As part of the mission, referred to as Blue Moon, the company hopes to deliver cargo to the moon's surface, as well as scout for sources of water. Blue Origin is also part of The Moon Race, a non-profit that aims to establish a new competition, enlisting teams to develop ways to produce energy, grow food and establish infrastructure on the moon in exchange for cash prizes. The Moon Race has also attracted support from Airbus and the European Space Agency. Today's announcement could eventually tie into an expected update on Blue Origin's New Glenn rocket. New Glenn is the company's orbital rocket that it hopes to launch into space in 2021, though Blue Origin has released few details about the vehicle. It's thought that the heavy-lift launch rocket could help Blue Origin complete a mission to the moon. Blue Origin's New Shepard rocket lands on May 2nd after its 11th successful test flight into space. The rocket has been eyed as a vehicle to deliver humans to the edge of space The company has yet to conduct test flights of New Glenn and it has not been seen publicly. Meanwhile, a smaller rocket named New Shepard is envisioned to deliver humans to the edge of space later this year. Blue Origin conducted its 11th successful launch and landing of the New Shepard rocket earlier this month. The company faces stiff competition from a range of players, including Elon Musk's SpaceX and Richard Branson's Virgin Galactic, which some have coined the 'billionaire space race.' A map comparison by one Reddit user shows an unexpected connection between how Alabama voted in 2016 and what the state looked like millions of years ago. In a post on r/MapPorn by Drake Colfax, an Alabama resident who posts under the Reddit username MartyVanB, shows a side-by-side map that features to seemingly unrelated things. One the left side, is a map showing a seashore that stretched across what is now the state of Alabama during the Cretaceous Period, and on the right, a voting map showing which districts voted Democrat. When looking at the two together, however, the similarities are undeniable, which according his the users's analysis, is due to a connection that links geology, farming, slavery, and modern day politics. The map on left shows the area of exposures of sedimentary rocks deposited during the Late Cretaceous in Alabama roughly 100 to 66 million years ago. On right, results from from the 2018 Alabama gubernatorial election are illustrated WHEN GEOLOGY INFLUENCES HUMAN AFFAIRS About 85 million years ago, a region in Alabama that's come to be known as the 'Black Belt' was flooded by shallow ocean waters. When ocean water receded, it left behind a layer of limestone that lead to the unusually mineral-rich and fertile soil in Alabama. Many millennia later, the land was fertile and farmers flocked to it. To farm the swaths of cotton crop, farmers used black slaves, some of which who would eventually be freed and settle in the region that they were forced to work in. It's far from the only case in which geology has greatly affected the course of human affairs. Notably, the formation of the English Channel was created by the rupturing of a natural dam hundreds of thousands of years ago. That same waterway was part of the reason why during WWII, Adolf Hitler and the German forces were unable to invade Britain. Advertisement 'To provide some context: the Cretaceous Period seashore would develop into some of the richest farmland in the U.S. thanks to the seashore pushing rocks deep and leaving behind rich deposits in really loose soil, which lead to the development of the cotton industry in this area which, of course, lead to large plantations with slaves whose decedents remain in this area,' said the user. According to the Encyclopedia of Alabama, the region referenced by MartyVanB's post is called the 'Black Belt' where about 85 million years ago shallow ocean waters flooded the surface. When ocean water receded, it left behind a layer of limestone that lead to the unusually mineral-rich and fertile soil in Alabama. Fast-forward to the early United Sates, specifically the confederate south when farmers flocked to the region, which became renowned for its rich, dark soil -- hence the name 'Black Belt.' To farm the swaths of cotton crop, farmers used black slaves, some of which who would eventually be freed and settle in the region that they were forced to work in. The post adds yet another layer by fast-forwarding to 2016 when Democratic candidate Hilary Clinton faced off against Republican President Donald Trump in a presidential election. The same region that had once been covered in ocean water, leading to the fertile 'Black Belt' was almost an exact replica of the district's that had voted for Clinton. 'I made the connection from something I read recently about the 2020 Senate election and Doug Jones being up for reelection [and that] he probably is not going to win without massive Democratic turnout, so I was looking at the map of the Alabama election in 2016 to see where counties turned out and, of course, the black belt went all Democratic,' said Drake Colfax who works in I.T. 'When I looked at it it immediately reminded me of that shoreline. I did some quick research and found that yes, the ancient shoreline had a connection. I have always loved geology, history, geography etc...' The rich soil in Alabama's 'Black Belt' was coveted by farmers who used slaves to cultivate cotton There are other examples of geology greatly affecting the course of human history according to Colfax. The 1860 map shows the extent of slavery in the US According to the New York Times, Clinton won 88 percent of the black vote -- black voters have long been an established base for the party. Colfax pointed to other examples throughout history where geology has greatly affected the course of human affairs. Notably, the formation of the English Channel was created by the rupturing of a natural dam hundreds of thousands of years ago. That same waterway was part of the reason why during WWII, Adolf Hitler and the German forces were unable to invade Britain. Colfax considers himself a hobbyist, but the surprising connections between geology and human history didn't cease to impress some Reddit users who stopped to read his post. 'And here I thought this was just a joke map where you take two completely unrelated things that just happen to align coincidentally, but here you are with an actual motivation for why there's an actual correlation!,' said one. Microsoft Word is getting an AI-powered editor that can recommend when users might want to make their writing more grammatically and politically correct. The tool, called Ideas in Word, uses machine learning and Microsoft's Graph developer platform to make suggestions when it senses users might want to 'refine their writing.' Ideas in Word, which is slated to launch this fall, was unveiled this week at Microsoft's annual Build developer conference in Seattle. Scroll down for video Microsoft Word is getting an AI-powered editor that can recommend when users might want to make their writing more grammatically and politically correct A video preview of the tool shows how it works. Users will see a tab in the Microsoft Word toolbar called 'Ideas,' where its AI systems might suggest users make improvements to their writing. It might suggest that users make improvements around clarity, conciseness, formality, inclusiveness, punctuation conventions, sensitive geopolitical references and vocabulary. For example, Microsoft said its machine learning algorithms might suggest that users replace the word 'policeman' with 'police officer,' in an effort to be more inclusive. Another example might involve its AI suggesting users write 'person with a disability' instead of 'disabled person.' For now, it'll launch solely for users of Word Online, the cloud-based version of Microsoft's word processing software. A video preview shows how the tool works. Users will see a tab in the Microsoft Word toolbar called 'Ideas,' where its AI systems might suggest users make improvements to their writing 'Writing requires a dash of uniquely human creativity,' Microsoft wrote in a blog post. 'Artificial intelligence alone cannot do it for us, at least not very well. But AI can and already is helping us do things like make sure we spell words correctly and use correct grammar. 'As the AI in these products is becoming more sophisticated, they are helping us do more than spot a misspelled word,' the company added. Additionally, the tool will help users make their documents more navigable by suggesting tables that might be easier to read. The Ideas tab can also show the key points from a document, as well as explain acronyms. It can even give users an approximation of how long it takes to read their document, should they be using it during a timed presentation at the office or in class. Microsoft isn't the only tech firm using AI to help users improve their writing. Google in February launched a tool for Google Docs that uses 'machine translation techniques' to catch grammatical errors that users might otherwise miss. A secret 'Ninja' missile that shreds targets with six swords has been secretly developed by the CIA. The weapon called the R9X is designed to smash through buildings and cars with the help of large blades that deploy seconds before impact. The devastating so called 'flying Ginsu', named after a knife brand, does not have an explosive warhead to minimize civilian casualties. Abu Khayr al-Masri, the deputy leader of Al-Qaeda was reportedly killed by one of these missiles in February 2017. His car was shredded by the 'Ninja missile' as he drove through Idlib in northern Syria. According to the Wall Street Journal, the goal of the weapon is to reduce unintended casualties caused by other more conventional missiles that detonate and engulf both targets and their surroundings. The CIA developed the 'Ninja' missile that instead of exploding, deploys six blades to rip through vehicles and kill its target Abu Khayr al-Masri, deputy leader of Al-Qaeda and second in command to Ayman al-Zawahiri, was reportedly killed by a 'flying Ginsu' The US military leaked details of the new missile to improve its image in the Muslim world in an effort to show they are trying to reduce collateral damage, it was claimed. It was ordered by Barack Obama after he was stung by criticism civilians were being killed in drone strikes. As well as being responsible for the death of Egyptian militant al-Masri, it is also believed in January this year it was used to kill Jamal al-Badawi. The Yemeni was convicted in his native country of masterminding the bombing of the USS Cole, which killed 17 American sailors and injuring 39 in 2000. The 'flying Ginsu' is a modified version of a Hellfire missile, usually around five feet in length and weighing 100lb, that has been deployed by US drones and usually causes a large blast area that scorches targets and their surroundings. Around six operations in locations such as Libya, Yemen, Somalia, Iraq and Syria are all said to have used the bladed projectile. One of these 'inert bombs' was consider by Obama in the operation to kill Osama bin Laden in Pakistan in 2011, but instead a team of Navy SEALs stormed his compound in Abbottabad. The missile's nickname comes from the Ginsu knife brand that alluded to Japanese samurai in their marketing. The car carrying Abu Khayr al-Masri, deputy leader of Al-Qaeda was shredded by a 'Ninja bomb' as he drove through Idlib in northern Syria Egyptian militant Abu Khayr al-Masri was deputy leader of Al-Qaeda until he was killed in an air strike in Syria in 2017 Speculation about the military's use of a new weapon has been rife since 2017 when photos were released of al-Masri, who seemed to have been killed inside a car that contained a large puncture in the roof with blade marks along the impact area. Journalists noted at the time that the vehicle was surprisingly intact. According to the report, which is based on interviews with more than a dozen accounts from current and former government officials, the weapon was born partially of the desire by former President Obama to avoid civilian casualties caused in particular by airstrikes from the CIA's drone program. Data from the Bureau of Investigative Journalism, who has been cataloging the effects of US drone strikes abroad since 2004, in the last 15 years drone strikes have killed between 769 to 1725 civilians with 253 to 397 of them being children. Obama announced the new strategy in a speech in May 2013 when he admitted some civilian deaths were unavoidable. The weapon used to kill al-Masri did not break the Kia Rio saloon's windows or scratch most of the paintwork Jamal al-Badawi, a suspect of the USS Cole destroyer's bombing in 2000 in the Yemeni port of Aden, is also thought to have been killed by a 'Ninja' bomb in January this year The port side of the guided missile destroyer USS Cole damaged after a terrorist bomb exploded during a refueling operation in the port of Aden in Yemen in October 2000 He said: 'Before any strike is taken, there must be near-certainty that no civilians will be killed or injured - the highest standard we can set. 'For me and those in my chain of command, those deaths will haunt us as long as we live.' Apart from his alleged role in the USS Cole attack, in which he was said to have supplied boats and explosives, Badawi was also charged with attempting to attack a US Navy vessel in January 2000 with co-conspirators. The FBI had placed Badawi on its most wanted list, offering a $5million reward for information leading to his capture. Outside of the clear human impact, the Wall Street Journal reports that the US military is also interested in the new weapon technology for more practical reasons. Fighters have begun to adapt to drone attacks by hiding out in areas populated by children and women, putting them ostensibly out of reach from traditional airstrikes. The Ginsu carries with it a set of more technical pros and cons, officials said. Because it greatly minimizes the risk of civilian casualties entailed in traditional explosives, it increases the places it can be deployed, giving pilots more potential shots on a target. However, the amount of precision and intelligence needed to accurately strike a target comes at a cost of additional resources from officers and military officials. Hellfire missiles may be effective, but they often endanger innocent bystanders. A new weapon, however, dive-bombs using six blades to precision-target attacks Predator drone are unmanned vehicles that are capable of shooting missiles, conducting reconnaissance and more The report states that the missile has been deployed somewhat selectively since it started being developed in 2011, with about six uses. Among the confirmed kills, the report says, are Jamal al-Badawi who behind a bombing in 2000 that killed 17 sailors. Under Obama's presidency, journalists like Jeremy Scahill and others detailed a massive and covert expansion of the CIA's drone program which many likened to a silent war being waged without the American public's knowledge. Analysts at think tanks like Brookings Institution have hypothesized that the impact of civilian casualties that result from drone warfare may even worsen radicalization. Terrorists have been shown to use the carnage as a recruiting tool to help turn citizens against the US. In March President Donald Trump rolled back an Obama-era mandate that required the government to report on the number of casualties caused by drones outside of traditional war zones. While the US Department of Defense reports annually on civilian casualties as a result of military operations, the CIA conducts much of its work in secret and is not subject to the mandate. The world's best and worst airlines and airports for 2019 have been named in a new study. Qatar Airways is ranked as the number one airline for the second year running with American Airlines in second place. Thomas Cook Airlines comes bottom of the list - just below easyJet. The top airport for the second year running, the study claims, is Hamad International Airport in Doha, followed by Tokyo International Airport. Lisbon Portela Airport has been named as the worst. REVEALED: THE BEST AND WORST AIRLINES 2019 Best 1. Qatar Airways 2. American Airlines 3. Aeromexico 4. SAS Scandinavian Airlines 5. Qantas 6. LATAM Airlines 7. WestJet 8. Luxair 9. Austrian Airlines 10. Emirates Worst 63. Adria Airways 64. Aerolineas Argentinas 65. Transavia 66. Laudamotion 67. Norwegian 68. Ryanair 69. Korean Air 70. Kuwait Airways 71. EasyJet 72. Thomas Cook Source: AirHelp. AirHelp's methodology: 'We chose the airlines based on the best known and most flown airlines - but we exclude airlines that we are unable to get data for.' Advertisement Qatar Airways is ranked as the number one airline for the second year running in an AirHelp survey The top airport in the AirHelp study, which looked at 132 from around the globe, is Hamad International Airport in Doha, pictured The study was carried out by AirHelp, a company that assists passengers with compensation claims for delayed, cancelled or overbooked flights. It ranked 72 airlines and 132 airports from 40,000 reviews based on on-time performance and quality of service, as well as food and drink options and how easy it is to claim a refund. In the airlines ranking Aeromexico comes third followed by SAS (fourth) and Qantas (fifth). The rest of the top ten is made up of LATAM Airlines (sixth), WestJet (seventh), Luxair (eighth), Austrian Airlines (ninth) and Emirates (10th). American Airlines came second in the airline ranking, scoring highly for claims processing The worst ranked airline in the study was named as Thomas Cook Airlines, but it countered that the report 'lacks merit' Easyjet fared badly in the airline ranking coming 71st out of the 72 airlines that were ranked The best-ranked UK-based airline is Flybe, which comes 11th, followed by Virgin Atlantic, which comes 15th. British Airways comes 23rd and Jet2 54th. In the U.S airline league-within-a-league, the second-best ranked airline is United Airlines (16th) and Delta Air Lines is 17th. Directly above Thomas Cook and easyJet comes Kuwait Airways (70th), Korean Air (69th) and Ryanair (68th). After Hamad International and Tokyo International in the airport ranking is Athens International, followed by Afonso Pena International in Brazil and Gdansk Lech Waesa Airport in fifth. Tokyo International Airport came second in the annual survey, which has been running for eight years Coming third in the airport ranking is Athens International, pictured REVEALED: BEST AND WORST AIRPORTS FOR 2019 Best 1. Hamad International Airport, Qatar 2. Tokyo International Airport, Japan 3. Athens International , Greece 4. Afonso Pena International Airport, Brazil 5. Gdansk Lech Waesa Airport, Poland 6. Moscow Sheremetyevo International, Russia 7. Singapore Changi Airport, 8. Hyderabad Rajiv Gandhi International, India 9. Tenerife North Airport, Spain 10. Campinas International , Brazil Worst 123. London Gatwick Airport, UK 124. Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport, Canada 125. Porto Airport, Portugal 126. Paris Orly Airport, France 127. Manchester Airport, UK 128. Malta International Airport, Malta 129. Henri Coanda International Airport, Bucharest, Romania 130. Eindhoven Airport, Netherlands 131. Kuwait International Airport, Kuwait 132. Lisbon Portela Airport, Portugal Source: AirHelp. AirHelp's methodology: 'We chose the airports based on the best known and most used airports - but we exclude airports that we are unable to get data for.' Advertisement Rounding off the top ten are Moscow Sheremetyevo (sixth), Singapore Changi (seventh), Hyderabad International (eighth), Tenerife North Airport (ninth) and Viracopos/Campinas International Airport in Brazil (10th). The highest ranked UK airport is Bristol Airport, in 70th place, with London Heathrow coming 73rd. Birmingham Airport is 78th, London City 104th, London Stansted 109th, Edinburgh Airport 122nd and Gatwick 123rd. Bottom-ranked in the UK is Manchester, coming 127th out of 132. Last year Manchester Airport's Terminal 3 came second from bottom in a Which? customer satisfaction study, just ahead of London Luton. The top-rated US hub is Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson International in 34th place. Highest ranking in Australia is Sydney Airport in 65th spot. As well as Lisbon Portela, the following airports also fared badly - Kuwait International (131st), Eindhoven Airport (130th), Henri Coanda International Airport (129th) in Bucharest and Malta International Airport (128th). The worst airport, according to the study, is Lisbon Portela Airport, pictured Here's how AirHelp has presented the information for the airline ranking Henrik Zillmer, CEO and co-founder of AirHelp, said: 'The AirHelp Score 2019 must serve as a wake-up call to the UK's aviation industry, which is continually failing those that matter the most - the passengers. 'It's crystal clear that more needs to be done to adapt to ever-changing demands, whether it's airports adding and extending runways to cope with the influx, to airlines focusing on the industry-wide lack of pilots and often poor cabin-crew conditions. 'Action is needed and it is needed now to ensure passengers are not the innocent casualties of the UK's floundering aviation industry.' UK airports offer a world-class service to UK passengers Airport Operators Association A spokesperson for the Airport Operators Association said: 'UK airports offer a world-class service to UK passengers: nearly 85 per cent of people were fairly or very satisfied with their most recent travel experience and just over 80 per cent were fairly or very satisfied with their experience at airport security, according to surveys by our regulator, the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). Of course, airports continuously strive to make things even better and it is good to see that nearly a third of people told the CAA they believe air travel is improving further. 'Where airports have limited control over a passenger's experience, such as their airline's on-time performance, we work closely with airlines and their contracted ground handlers to ensure that the airlines can recover delays as much as possible. Delays result from a range of factors, including bad weather such as 2018's Beast from the East, air traffic control strikes in other countries and capacity constraint in the UK's airspace. Here's how AirHelp has presented the information for the airport ranking 'That is why the UK Government has asked the aviation industry to deliver the modernisation of our airspace and we are working closely with Government to achieve this. Airspace modernisation will improve resilience and increase capacity to meet future travel demand while reducing aviation's environmental impacts.' A Thomas Cook Airlines spokeswoman said: 'This report lacks merit, and comes from a claims management company that profits from compensation that should belong to its customers. When customers come to us with flight delay claims, we pay promptly, directly and in full.' Easyjet said: 'In 2018 more than 91 per cent of easyJet flights arrived within an hour of their scheduled time and we have a continuous focus on punctuality and customer care as we know it is important to our passengers. 'Over the course of the year, ATC capacity and staff shortages were responsible for more than 75 per cent of all delays across Europe with 30 days of air traffic control strike action impacting customers all outside of airlines' control. 'Airhelp is a claims agency taking significant amounts of compensation from customers who could receive the entire amount by claiming with the airlines directly. We take our responsibilities under Regulation (EC) No 261/2004 extremely seriously and always pay compensation when it is due.' Airlines UK, which represents Britain's carriers, said: 'This report is misleading and self-serving. UK airlines operate in a highly competitive market place and need to provide good customer service to attract and keep passengers. They do not need lectures from claims management companies. When things do go wrong most complaints are dealt with quickly and amicably without passengers having to fork out 25 per cent of any compensation to third parties.' MailOnline Travel has contacted Ryanair, Manchester Airport and Lisbon Portela Airport for comment. Airlines operating in Britain should pay a seat levy to cover the costs of getting passengers home in case a carrier goes bust, a government commissioned review said on Thursday. The recommendations seek to even out anomalies in protection for British travellers, highlighted when Monarch collapsed in 2017, but airlines rejected the review's proposed 'airline seat levy', which it said would cost less than 50 pence per passenger. 'Although airline insolvencies are relatively rare... they do happen - and at times have required government to step in to repatriate passengers at great cost to the taxpayer,' Peter Bucks, who chaired the review, said in a statement. Airlines operating in Britain should pay a seat levy to cover the costs of getting passengers home in case a carrier goes bust, a government commissioned review said on Thursday British transport minister Chris Grayling said he would consider the proposals by the Airline Insolvency Review, which was set up by finance minister Philip Hammond after the government and the Civil Aviation Authority had to step in to help repatriate Monarch customers. British holidaymakers who are booked onto a package holiday have what is called Air Travel Organiser's Licence (Atol) protection, ensuring they can return home and do not lose money. Monarch, which had both Atol-protected and flight-only customers, highlighted the discrepancy in British law. Airline passengers often have to rely on their banks, payment card issuers or insurers for refunds The CAA did not assist in repatriating customers of airlines such as Flybmi when it went bust earlier this year. Instead, airline passengers often have to rely on their banks, payment card issuers or insurers for refunds, with other airlines often cutting fares in offers to stranded passengers. The review also suggests that airlines should provide a security to be called on in the event of its insolvency. But Airlines UK, which represents Britain's carriers, said that any tax would make travel more expensive. 'Fifty pence may not sound much but airlines operate on wafer thin margins,' Tim Alderslade, its chief executive said, adding that voluntary rescue fares worked well. He added: 'The chances of booking with an airline that goes bust remain extremely small.' SPOILERS BELOW! HBO has released nine new photos from the penultimate episode of Game of Thrones Season 8, airing on Sunday, May 12. Just a few episodes removed from the Battle of Winterfell, the longest battle ever seen on film or television, The Last War is brewing, as we can see in the photos. Now that the Night King and his army of white walkers have been defeated, Daenerys Targaryen (Emilia Clarke) has made her way to King's Landing, to take the Iron Throne. Post-battle: Now that the Night King and his army of white walkers have been defeated, Daenerys Targaryen (Emilia Clarke) has made her way to King's Landing, to take the Iron Throne Much like the trailer for this upcoming episode, the photos don't reveal much, although it does reiterate that another epic battle is on the horizon. Two of the nine images are perhaps the most revealing, since they show both Daenerys' forces standing outside King's Landing. Standing above what's left of the unsullied army and Dothraki forces Daenerys commands is Davos Seaworth (Liam Cunningham), Jon Snow (Kit Harington) and Tyrion Lannister (Peter Dinklage). Pre-war: Standing above what's left of the unsullied army and Dothraki forces Daenerys commands is Davos Seaworth (Liam Cunningham), Jon Snow (Kit Harington) and Tyrion Lannister (Peter Dinklage) The other photo in question offers a better look at The Golden Army commander Harry Strickland (Marc Rissmann), upon a white steed with his well-trained army behind him. Several of the other photos are back at Daenerys' homeland on Dragonstone, with Dany herself seen leaning against a wall, incredibly distraught. While she did come away victorious in the Battle of Winterfell, it did decimate her forces, and now she is down to just one dragon. Golden Company: The other photo in question offers a better look at The Golden Army commander Harry Strickland (Marc Rissmann), upon a white steed with his well-trained army behind him Also at Dragonstone, Grey Worm (Jacob Anderson) is seen in the throne room, though it is not known if Daenerys is there as well. Both Dany and Grey Worm suffered a tremendous loss at the end of last week's episode, The Last of the Starks, when, after Daenerys refused to surrender, Cersei had The Mountain (Hafthor Julius Bjornsson) behead Missandei (Nathalie Emmanuel). While Missandei was one of Daenerys' closest advisers, she was also Grey Worm's lover, and her sudden beheading sent shockwaves through Dany's camp. Grey Worm: Also at Dragonstone, Grey Worm (Jacob Anderson) is seen in the throne room, though it is not known if Daenerys is there as well Back to Dragonstone: Another image showed Jon Snow and Lord Varys (Conleth Hill) arriving on the beaches of Dragonstone, presumably after the Battle of Winterfell Another image showed Jon Snow and Lord Varys (Conleth Hill) arriving on the beaches of Dragonstone, presumably after the Battle of Winterfell. Queen Cersei was also seen with her usual nefarious smirk, safely inside the confines of the Red Keep. Tyrion Lannister (Peter Dinklage) is also seen in Dragonstone, looking rather worried, while Euron Greyjoy (Pilou Asbaek) is seen on one of his many ships. The final image shows Jon and Davos on the battlefield, as fans prepare for The Last War, which brings this epic series to a close. Game of Thrones' final season concludes with the final two episodes on Sunday, May 12 and Sunday, May 19, both at 9 PM ET on HBO. Safe and sound: Queen Cersei was also seen with her usual nefarious smirk, safely inside the confines of the Red Keep Worried Tyrion: Tyrion Lannister (Peter Dinklage) is also seen in Dragonstone, looking rather worried At sea: Euron Greyjoy (Pilou Asbaek) is seen on one of his many ships Cannes best actress winner Diane Kruger joined her babydaddy, The Walking Dead star Norman Reedus, for a motorcycle ride in Atlanta for the first time since welcoming their daughter. The German 42-year-old - who boasts 1M social media followers - captioned the b&w snap with the Florida-born 50-year-old: 'First time in a year and a half, wiiii!' It was a rare couple post for Diane and Norman, who have yet to reveal the name of their six-month-old baby due to 'safety concerns.' 'First time in a year and a half!' Cannes best actress winner Diane Kruger joined her babydaddy, The Walking Dead star Norman Reedus, for a motorcycle ride in Atlanta for the first time since welcoming their daughter 'She's not really girlie. She's kind of a dude. It's fun to have a girl, I will say. I like that, too,' Kruger (born Heidkruger) told People on April 29. 'He just looks at her with unconditional love. I wish he would look at me like that!' Diane also told the mag their family was 'complete' since Reedus has a 19-year-old son Mingus Lucien with his ex-partner, nineties supermodel Helena Christensen. The models-turned-actors - who officially went public in March 2017 - first met back in December 2015 while portraying lovers on the set of their film Sky. 'She's not really girlie. She's kind of a dude': It was a rare couple post for the German 42-year-old and the Florida-born 50-year-old, who have yet to reveal the name of their six-month-old baby (pictured January 27) 'I'm done': Diane has said their family is 'complete' since Reedus has a 19-year-old son Mingus Lucien with his ex-partner, nineties supermodel Helena Christensen (pictured December 24) Castmates: The models-turned-actors - who officially went public in March 2017 - first met back in December 2015 while portraying lovers on the set of their film Sky At the time, the Welcome to Marwen stunner was still in a decade-long relationship with The Affair's Joshua Jackson. On Monday, the Ride host revealed he began filming the 10th season of the AMC zombie drama - premiering in October - by sharing an on-set snap of his Daryl chair beside Melissa McBride's Carol chair. Meanwhile, Kruger currently plays Eva in Universal Pictures' critically-acclaimed hoax drama JT LeRoy, which finally hits UK theaters August 12. Justin Kelly's flick centers on Savannah Knoop (Kristen Stewart), the woman who pretended to be HIV-positive teenage boy Jeremiah Terminator Leroy before the literary persona was exposed as her sister-in-law Laura Albert (Laura Dern). 'Day 1!' On Monday, the Ride host revealed he began filming the 10th season of the AMC zombie drama - premiering in October - by sharing an on-set snap of his Daryl chair beside Melissa McBride's Carol chair Anyone affected by rape or sexual abuse can contact Victim Support on 0808 168 9111 or www.victimsupport.org.uk Emmerdale has received 39 Ofcom complaints from shocked viewers after a graphic rape scene aired on Wednesday night's show at 19:25, before the 21:00 watershed. The character of Victoria Barton, played by Isabel Hodgins, was brutally attacked by Lee, played by Kris Mochrie, and raped during the final moments of the episode after a night out with her pals. Lee came on to Victoria in her bedroom, but she demanded he leave. Disturbing: Emmerdale has received 39 Ofcom complaints from viewers who were shocked after a graphic rape scene aired on Wednesday night's show before the watershed Shocking: The character of Victoria Barton, played by Isabel Hodgins, was brutally attacked by Lee, played by Kris Mochrie, and raped during the final moments of the episode after a night out with her pals 'You invited me in for a reason!' he said to her, trying to kiss her again. 'I'd like for you to leave now,' Victoria said, opening the door. But Lee slammed it shut, grabbed her by the hair and covered her mouth with his hand. Chucking her onto the bed, he hissed, 'You're a tease. And nobody likes a tease,' as Victoria stared on, terrified. Harrowing: Sounds of her being raped could then be heard from the bedroom, as the camera panned away from the closed door in the scene - the programme began at 19:25 Get out! Lee came on to Victoria in her bedroom, but she demanded he leave. 'You invited me in for a reason!' Lee was seen trying to kiss her again Tense: 'I'd like for you to leave now,' Victoria said, opening the door. But Lee slammed it shut Sounds of her being raped could then be heard from the bedroom, as the camera panned away from the closed door. An Ofcom spokesperson told The Sun: 'We are assessing these complaints against our broadcasting rules, but are yet to decide whether or not to investigate.' MailOnline has contacted a spokesperson for Ofcom for further comment. While the majority of viewers tweeting about the incident thought it was great that Emmerdale had tackled the subject of rape, others found it simply aired too early on in the evening and did not make for suitable viewing. However, others noted that viewers were given plenty of warning about the attack and the storyline had been building up to it for some time. Moreover, it was felt that raising awareness was so important, that viewers were pleased that the subject was covered. Isabel, who plays Victoria, tweeted on Wednesday evening: 'Thank you for all your kind messages about tonights episode. Violent: Lee grabbed her by the hair and covered her mouth with his hand Horrific: Chucking her onto the bed, he hissed, 'You're a tease. And nobody likes a tease,' as Victoria stared on, terrified 'When emmerdale told me I was doing this storyline I was like oh crumbs that is a huge responsibility!!! If this story helps at least one person Ill be forever thankful.' Fans took to Twitter after watching the show, though, to express how shocked they were because the incident was shown on television at a time when young children would be watching. They wrote: 'Not appropriate to be shown at that time. I'm all for raising awareness of rape but in my opinion that was too much for 7.25. Should've shown it later,' one person tweeted. Shock: Lots of people took to Twitter to air how disturbed they were by the scenes and said they were not suitable for family viewing Another replied: 'I agree. It was too much shown too early. Its not about kids watching - Im 33 and didnt like it.' A third typed: 'Very early for this kind of thing. Yes I know there is no time limit on this in real life but still there is kids watching.' Many lauded the soap, however, for it's gritty scenes. 'It was brilliant. Heartbreakingly sad but brilliantly acted,' one person remarked. Shock attack: Victoria Barton is played by Isabel Hodgins, 25 Thinking of others: After the episode aired, she took to Twitter to say she hopes that the storyline has helped other people Tough time: Victoria has had her fair share of heartache of late, having recently split up with boyfriend Ellis Chapman - who was also present on the night out Dark twist: Last year she was left devastated when husband Adam Barton went on the run after confessing to the murder of Emma Barton - with Victoria recently learning that the real culprit was in fact Adam's mum Moira Dingle Another commented: 'We didnt see anything, any adult watching knows what was meant to have happened. Any kids watching would not get the implied story, plus this type of storyline needs to be shown! It can help to raise awareness.' Victoria has had her fair share of heartache of late, having recently split up with boyfriend Ellis Chapman - who was also present on the night out. Last year she was left devastated when husband Adam Barton went on the run after confessing to the murder of Emma Barton - with Victoria recently learning that the real culprit was in fact Adam's mum Moira Dingle. Emmerdale airs weekdays at 7pm on ITV Anyone affected by rape or sexual abuse can contact Victim Support on 0808 168 9111 or www.victimsupport.org.uk Karlie Kloss was living the jet set lifestyle Wednesday in New York City. The 26-year-old model attended the Louis Vuitton 2020 Cruise Fashion show at JFK TWA Terminal. Karlie revealed on Instagram that immediately afterward she jumped in a helicopter for a lift to LaGuardia Airport in order to catch a flight to Orlando, Florida. Top model: Karlie Kloss attended the Louis Vuitton 2020 Cruise Fashion show at JFK TWA Terminal on Wednesday and immediately afterward flew away The Project Runway host wore a chic black and white outfit for the fashion show. The 6ft2in catwalk star had on a cute black dress with intriguing abstract designs at the top and bottom in silver fringe beads. Underneath her sleeveless dress she wore a white shirt with baggy, ruffled sleeves, resembling a 1960s-style ruffled shirt. She added a pair of pointy black ankle boots with dangling laces to the look, and had her dirty blonde hair whipped to one side. Unique outfit: The Project Runway host had on a cute black dress with intriguing abstract designs at the top and bottom Long sleeves: Karlie wore a long-sleeved white shirt with baggy, ruffled sleeves under her dress Black and white: The model completed her outfit with black ankle boots Karlie accessorized with small hoop earrings and carried a black box handbag. She sat front row at the Louis Vuitton fashion presentation at the airport. Karlie earlier turned a city sidewalk into her personal runway as she headed to the show. Front row: Karlie sat front row for the runway show in New York City Women's wear: A model is shown walking the runway during the Louis Vuitton Cruise 2020 collection presentation Her natural state: Karlie earlier beamed with a sultry smile as she strutted her stuff on the way to the Louis Vuitton Women's Resort 2020 fashion show TV star: The model became the host of Project Runway for its 17th season that premiered in March Karlie named her trademark runway walk the 'moody gait,' but there wasn't anything moody about the model, who seemed to delight in putting on a show. After stepping out of her office, she gave a playful wave to fans before hopping in her black SUV. Karlie previously featured as the face of Louis Vuitton's new soft luggage campaign back in March. She posted an Instagram story from the car in which she explained she would conveniently fly away after the show since it was located at the airport. Old-school: Underneath her sleeveless dress she wore a white shirt with baggy, ruffled sleeves, resembling a 1960s-style ruffled shirt On point: She added a pair of pointy black boots with dangling laces to the look, and had her dirty blonde hair whipped to one side Showing off: Karlie named her trademark runway walk the 'moody gait,' but there wasn't anything moody about the model, who seemed to delight in putting on a show Earlier on Wednesday, the former Victoria's Secret Angel made a visit to the Today show, where she joined professor Kate Biberdorf for an explosive chemistry demonstration. As a coder and the founder of the Kode with Klossy scholarship for young girls interested in computer science, she was a logical choice for the kid-themed science segment. Karlie sat down with Biberdorf for an interview before the demonstration, focusing on her high-energy classroom presentations. Afterward, the two were joined by Savannah Guthrie and Craig Melvin to make some of Biberdorf's explosive demonstrations. The model and former dancer poured a golden liquid in a flask, which instantly transformed into a bubbling concoction that shot into the air. Science fan: Earlier on Wednesday, the Kode with Klossy founder interviewed chemistry professor Kate Biberdorf and put on an explosive demonstration They played siblings Sansa and Robb Stark in Game Of Thrones, before his brutal murder during the Red Wedding massacre. And Sophie Turner and Richard Madden delighted fans as they reunited at the Met Gala 2019 in New York City on Monday. The newlywed British beauty, 23, and the Bodyguard star, 32, looked ecstatic as they shared a sweet hug at the glittering event, with Richard later chatting to Sophie and her husband Joe Jonas, 29. Sansa and Rob reunite! GoT stars Sophie Turner and Richard Madden delighted fans as they reunited at the Met Gala 2019 in New York City on Monday Final curtain: They played siblings Sansa and Robb Stark in Game Of Thrones, before his brutal murder during the Red Wedding massacre X-Men star Sophie couldn't contain her happiness at bumping into her former co-star as she hugged him tightly and laughed. The blonde beauty rocked a sleeveless, custom Louis Vuitton outfit that showed off her cleavage. On her feet, the British beauty wore a pair of simple black heels and in her hand she held a clutch that matched her colorful outfit. The Josie star wore her blonde tresses streaked with glitter and slicked back from her flawless features. After the (Red) Wedding: The newlywed British beauty, 23, and the Bodyguard star, 32, looked ecstatic as they shared a sweet hug at the glittering event, with Richard later chatting to Sophie and her husband Joe Jonas, 29 She completed the look with heavy smokey eye and blue eye shadow. Sophie's 5ft7in spouse looked dapper in a high neck shirt that matched his bride's colors, along with black trousers. The rocker completed the formal look with patent leather shoes. Rocketman Richard looked typically dapper in a black silk shirt worn with a matching tailored suit. Richard, who has since soared to worldwide fame as the hunky police officer David Budd in Bodyguard, appeared as the first King of The North in Game Of Thrones from 2011-2013. Missed you: X-Men star Sophie couldn't contain her happiness at bumping into her former co-star as she hugged him tightly and laughed Gritty: His character met a grisly end during the Red Wedding when he was stabbed through the heart by Lord Bolton in 2013 Acclaimed: Richard has since soared to worldwide fame as the hunky police officer David Budd in Bodyguard His character met a grisly end during the Red Wedding when he was stabbed through the heart by Lord Bolton. In shocking scenes, following Robb's murder and that of his pregnant wife and unborn child, his body was decapitated with Grey Wind's head sewn on its place. Sophie is currently appearing in the eighth and final season of Game Of Thrones, with the final episode set to air in just under two weeks. She recently surprised fans by exchanging vows with Joe after the Billboard awards show in a wedding chapel on the Vegas Strip last week. Farewell: Sophie is currently appearing in the eighth and final season of Game Of Thrones, with the final episode set to air in just under two weeks She's the face of Dior makeup. And so it was no surprise that Bella Hadid was dripping head-to-toe in the brand for their Backstage launch on Wednesday. The 22-year-old beauty grinned ear to ear as she enjoyed a quick lunch in Beverly Hills before heading to the event. Scroll down for video Model-off-duty: Bella Hadid was dripping in Dior when she stepped out on Wednesday for lunch in Beverly Hills ahead of an event with the brand Bella stunned in a black sleeveless button-up blouse. She drew attention to her trim waist with a $630 belt by Christian Dior. She teamed the look with a pair of light and dark wash denim trousers that were cuffed at the ankle. The Vogue model completed her look with some simple black pumps. Fashionista: Bella stunned in a black sleeveless button-up blouse. She drew attention to her trim waist with a $630 belt by Christian Dior The best in the business: Considering it was an important day ahead, he younger sister of Gigi Hadid commissioned celerity hair stylist Jen Atkin to be in charge of her locks Bella accessorised with a over-the-shoulder bag by the brand as well as a dainty necklace, some hooped earrings and a pair of orange tinted rectangular shades. Considering it was an important day ahead, he younger sister of Gigi Hadid commissioned celerity hair stylist Jen Atkin to be in charge of her locks. Jen slicked back Bella's hair into a high ponytail for the busy day ahead. Chic: She teamed the look with a pair of light and dark wash denim trousers that were cuffed at the ankle Helping hand: At one point, a pal of Bella appeared to be fixing up her appearance slightly On her way: 'We're going to Milk Studios for our Dior Backstage launch and we're so excited,' Bella said on her Instagram Stories while in the back of a van Bella's glam consisted of a luminous and bronzed complexion that saw a subtle smokey eye, blushed cheeks and a nude lip. 'We're going to Milk Studios for our Dior Backstage launch and we're so excited,' Bella said on her Instagram Stories while in the back of a van. Dior Backstage is the brand's more affordable makeup range. They first launched in June 2018. He celebrated both his birthday and his engagement on Tuesday after proposing to his dancer girlfriend on stage. And Strictly pro Graziano Di Prima couldn't hide his happiness as he left the latest performance on the dance tour hand in hand with his new fiancee Giada Lini on Wednesday. The lovebirds cosied up the cameras, as Giada showed off her new ring as they left the Wycombe Swan Theatre in High Wycombe, where they had been performing. Newly engaged: Strictly pro Graziano Di Prima couldn't hide his happiness as he left the latest performance on the dance tour hand in hand with his new fiancee Giada Lini on Wednesday Dressed in matching leather jackets, Italian dancer Graziano, 25, and his fiancee Giada, 28, beamed for the cameras. Giada flashed a look at her elegant diamond engagement ring as the two carried their luggage to their car, ready for another stop on the popular dance tour. Their co-star and fellow Strictly pro Kevin Clifton was also seen leaving the venue, looking in great spirits amid his new romance with Strictly partner Stacey Dooley. Happiness: Graziano celebrated both his birthday and his engagement on Tuesday after proposing to his dancer girlfriend on stage Proposal: Dressed in matching leather jackets, Italian dancer Graziano, 25, and his fiancee Giada, 28, beamed for the cameras Kiss me quick: The Italian stallion showered his gorgeous girl in kisses as they left On Tuesday, Kevin and the rest of the Burn The Floor cast looked on on stage as Graziano popped the question during a performance in Watford. A shirtless Graziano was seen getting down on one knee as a shocked Giada who is also a dancer on the hit show, covered her face with her hands in delight. The couple - who have been dating since 2015 - then shared a sweet kiss as Giada accepted his proposal - as their fellow dancers cheered. Marriage plans: Giada flashed a look at her elegant diamond engagement ring as the two carried their luggage to their car, ready for another stop on the popular dance tour Look of love: Their co-star and fellow Strictly pro Kevin Clifton was also seen leaving the venue, looking in great spirits amid his new romance with Strictly partner Stacey Dooley Giada showed off her stunning frame in a black bra and matching underwear worn with a crisp white shirt as she performed an intimate dance routine with her man before the proposal. The smitten couple were seen staring into one another's eyes as Graziano lifted his love into the air. As well as Kevin, fellow pro Johannes Radebe watched on with delight. Engaged: On Tuesday, Kevin and the rest of the Burn The Floor cast looked on on stage as Graziano popped the question during a performance in Watford Happy couple: The Italian dancer, 25, who joined the show in 2018, popped the question during a performance, with Kevin among his emotional co-stars watching on Emotional: Kevin looked emotional as he watched on with fellow Strictly pro Johannes Radebe looking on Cute couple: A shirtless Graziano was seen getting down on one knee as an shocked Giada, 28, who is also a dancer on the hit show, covered her face with her hands in delight My love: The hunk showed off his muscular frame in a a pair of black trousers She said yes! The couple - who have been dating since 2015 - then shared a sweet kiss as Giada accepted his proposal - as their fellow dancers cheered It is a double celebration for Graziano, who also turned 25 on Tuesday. Fellow Strictly pro Oti Mabuse, 28, also shared a congratulatory message to Graziano, and posted a photo of the proposal to her Instagram story. His new fiancee posted a sweet snap of the pair kissing to honour his birthday, writing: 'YOU ... never stop making me fall in love with you every day ...! HAPPY BIRTHDAY my little BIG LOVE.' Graziano quickly won a legion of fans when he debuted on the show's 2018 series, where he was partnered with radio DJ Vick Hope. Debut: Graziano made his debut on the 2019 series of Strictly - with DJ Vick Hope Yay! It is a double celebration for Graziano, who also turned 25 on Tuesday Wow: The star showed off his hunky tattooed frame as he addressed the crowd Emotional: Giada looked emotional as Graziano waxed lyrical about his love for Giada Embrace: The smitten pair embraced after the romantic proposal Happy couple: Graziano and Giada proudly posed with her new engagement ring after the show Dazzle: Giada's dazzling ring featured a solitaire diamond Giada addressed the so-called 'Strictly curse', explaining to OK! magazine that she wasn't jealous of Graziano's closeness with his celebrity partner. She said: 'I come from the same background so I understand that if you dance together you have to be very close. Im not jealous of that,' she said. Graziano said of their relationship: We love each other so we have to be together. Im alone in this big new world and I need her. We live together so its like were married. Marriage is very important to both of us. We want to start our life as husband and wife and have our own family. Well see when! I just knew from the first day she changed my life. Prowess: The dancing couple showed off the moves before the proposal Congrats: Fellow Strictly pro Oti Mabuse, 28, also shared a congratulatory message to Graziano, and posted a photo of the proposal to her Instagram story Big Brother alum Christmas Abbott won't have to spend any time behind bars. The 37-year old copped a plea in her felony case and was sentenced to 12 months probation and 25 hours of community service for her alleged car-smashing rampage against her baby daddy's mistress, according to TMZ. The alleged altercation happened on scorching hot day last summer in Tampa, Florida when she was eight months pregnant. Avoids jail! Christmas Abbott copped a plea for her car-smashing rampage in August of 2018, when she was eight months pregnant; she is pictured on Big Brother in 2017 Abbott, who finished third on season 19 of Big Brother in 2017, was also ordered to pay $1,357.95 in restitution and complete an anger management class. This all started in August when the reality star allegedly flew off the handle after finding out the father of her baby, Benjamin Bunn, was having an affair, according to a police report. The CrossFit star then drove to a gym and confronted Samantha Morse of Tampa. While inside the facility Abbott screamed at Bunn, who owned the gym, threw an ice coffee across the room, and called Morse a 'pathetic home-wrecking little sl**,' according to police. Reality stardom: Abbott, a CrossFit star, appeared in season 19 of Big Brother Eventually Abbott got into her Mercedes Benz SUV and proceeded to ram Morse's car several times. When an officer arrived at the scene, he said Abbott waved him down and began crying and told him she 'lost it' and crashed into the car because its owner was allegedly cheating with her child's father. Because she was eight months pregnant, the arresting officers issued her a warrant and allowed her to turn herself in to police after she gave birth. The reality star welcomed her son, Loyal Atticus Abbott, in September about a month before she turned herself in to authorities on October 8. She's the Hollywood A-lister who's known for her sartorial approach to style, on and off the red carpet. And Australian actress Cate Blanchett looked every inch the fashionista as she left celebrity haunt Chiltern Firehouse in London with Riccardo Tisci, Chief Creative Officer of Burberry on Tuesday. Rocking an edgy ensemble, the 49-year-old seemed in high spirits as she made her way into an awaiting car after leaving the exclusive venue in head-to-toe Burberry. Rockstar-chic! Cate Blanchett, 49, (pictured) looked every inch the fashionista as she rocked tailored white trousers and leather jacket during a night out in London on Tuesday Clad in tailored white trousers and a matching blouse, she completed her look with a brown leather jacket and black stilettos. The two-time Oscar winner showed off her age-defying visage in minimal makeup, and added a pink-hued lip for a pop of colour. Her flaxen tresses were left out and straightened to cascade down to her shoulders and swept to the side. All smiles: Rocking an edgy ensemble, the 49-year-old seemed in high spirits as she made her way into an awaiting car after leaving the exclusive venue The mother-of-two has been keeping busy working on new FX series, Mrs America. Cate has become the latest Hollywood celebrity to switch to TV, signing on to star in the nine-episode series. Created and written by 'Mad Men' co-producer Dahvi Waller, the show will feature Cate as conservative activist Phyllis Schlafly, who led the fight against the movement to ratify the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA). Glowing: The two-time Oscar winner showed off her age-defying visage in minimal makeup, and added a pink-hued lip for a pop of colour The ERA is a proposed amendment to the US Constitution stating that equal rights may not be denied on the basis of one's sex. The amendment was passed by the US Congress in 1972, but failed to win the backing of enough states. Cate joins other Hollywood A-listers who have made the jump to television in recent years, including Meryl Streep, Tom Hardy and Julia Roberts. They've been busy promoting their new movie, The Souvenir. And actress Tilda Swinton and her daughter Honor Swinton Byrne stepped out for a night off on Wednesday in New York City, as they left their hotel to attend a dinner together. The thespian duo held hands as they left The Bowery Hotel, Tilda leading the way in a sleek black two-piece suit. Girls' night: Tilda Swinton and her daughter Honor Swinton Byrne stepped out for a night off on Wednesday in New York City, as they left their hotel to attend a dinner together Tilda, 58, cut a slick figure in the number, which she added navy suede heels to, with gold deatailing. Her tailored blazer also featured a chunky gold trim, with her platinum locks adding to the look. Her light blonde 'do was styled in a side parting, left to fall one-sided. She added a burst of colour to the look with bright red lipstick. Stylish: Tilda, 58, cut a slick figure in the number, which she added navy suede heels to, with gold deatailing. Her tailored blazer also featured a chunky gold trim, with her platinum locks adding to the look Chic: Honor, 21, also went for a dark look, wearing a black dress, elaborate killer heels and a white leather purse which she wore across her torso Honor, 21, also went for a dark look, wearing a black dress, elaborate killer heels and a white leather purse which she wore across her torso. She held tightly onto her mother's hand as they walked out onto the stree, Honor leaving her long locks to fall loosely around her features. Her father is Tilda's former partner Scottish artist and playwright John Byrne, 79, and she has a twin brother Xavier. Tilda split from Byrne in 2005 and is currently in a relationship with German painter Sandro Klopp, 41. Stylish: Tilda, 58, arrived wearing a long black coat with sparkly detailing. She wore it buttoned up over a white top and black slacks and added pointed toe black heels One of a kind: Tilda has successfully juggled independent films with more mainstream Hollywood fare over the course of her three decades-long career The Souvenir is directed by British filmmaker Julia Hogg and Tilda and Honor play mother and daughter in the romantic drama that premiered at Sundance in January and opens in theatres on May 17. Tilda has successfully juggled independent films with more mainstream Hollywood fare over the course of her three decades-long career. She's appeared in such high profile movies as Vanilla Sky, Constantine, Michael Clayton, The Chronicles of Narnia trilogy and the Marvel superhero films Dr. Strange and Avengers: Endgame. She has also starred in acclaimed lower budget films including The Deep End, Thumbsucker, Broken Flowers and We Need To Talk About Kevin. Has fashion's most notorious playboy finally settled down? Jordan Barrett, who has been linked to everybody from Paris Hilton to Bella Hadid in the past, was pictured on a date with fellow model Paige Reifler on Wednesday. The genetically-blessed pair were spotted dining at Italian restaurant Sant Ambroeus in New York City and they even appeared to share a kiss. Has he finally settled down? Jordan Barrett, who's been linked to everybody from Paris Hilton to Bella Hadid in the past, was pictured on a date with Paige Reifler in NYC on Wednesday As they sat down for lunch together at an outdoor table, Jordan leaned in towards Paige and placed his right hand on her cheek. The models, both 23, looked rather sheepish afterwards, perhaps worried that somebody had noticed them together. Jordan dressed casually for their rendezvous in a blue T-shirt, white chinos and navy Converse sneakers. Caught in the act? The models, both 23, looked rather sheepish after sharing a 'kiss' at the Sant Ambroeus restaurant, perhaps worried that somebody had noticed them together Meanwhile, Paige opted for a preppy ensemble consisting of black pants and a loose-fitting blouse. The New York native completed her understated look with an olive sweater tied around her shoulders. The pair were previously spotted in the Big Apple earlier this month and it seems their blossoming friendship shows no sign of slowing down. Daily Mail Australia has contacted Jordan Barrett for comment. Another sighting: The pair were previously spotted in New York earlier this month and it seems their blossoming friendship shows no sign of slowing down Keeping it simple: Jordan dressed casually for their rendezvous in a blue T-shirt, white chinos and navy Converse sneakers What's going on here? At one stage, Jordan affectionately prodded Paige's shoulder Jordan has a reputation as a playboy, having been linked to Paris Hilton, Bella Hadid, Hailey Baldwin, Sofia Richie and Megan Blake Irwin in the past. Meanwhile, Paige dated former One Direction star Harry Styles back in 2013. She later told The Daily Mirror that they first met at a party in London before waking up to find photos of them in 'all of the newspapers and magazines'. What a gentleman! Jordan graciously poured Paige a glass of water at the table He's the teenage YouTube vlogger worth a reported $11miilion. And James Charles, 19, received a rockstar welcome as he touched down at Sydney Airport on Thursday. The American internet sensation blew kisses to waiting fans as he strolled through the arrivals terminal, days after fans threatened to egg the star. He's finally here! James Charles, 19, received a rockstar welcome as he touched down at Sydney Airport on Thursday When asked by photographers whether he's concerned about a potential egg attack while he's in Australia, the teenage entrepreneur casually said 'no' as he was led away by an entourage. The celebrity makeup artist ditched cosmetics for the long-haul flight and displayed his natural complexion. He was dressed for comfort in head-to-toe black, pairing a hoodie with sweatpants and sneakers. International star: The American internet sensation blew kisses to waiting fans as he strolled through the arrivals terminal, days after fans threatened to egg the star The rising star, who attended his first Met Gala in New York on Monday, is set to appear in a televised interview on Sunrise on Friday. However, a recent Facebook post promoting the interview was flooded with negative comments this week, with trolls threatening to launch an egg attack. 'Oh God, Australia. Time to bleach your eyes and block your ears,' one troll wrote. Makeup-free: The celebrity makeup artist ditched cosmetics for the long-haul flight as he displayed his natural complexion. He was dressed for comfort in head-to-toe black, pairing a hoodie with sweatpants and sneakers 'I'd rather have a power outage than give him time,' another comment read. It comes after he was mocked on social media this week for calling himself a 'catalyst', after scoring an invite to the Met Gala. '... Being invited to such an important event like the ball is such an honor and a step forward in the right direction for influencer representation in the media and I am so excited to be a catalyst,' he wrote on Instagram after the star-studded event. Criticism: The rising star is set to appear in a televised interview on Sunrise on Friday. However, a recent Facebook post promoting the interview was flooded with negative comments this week, with trolls threatening to launch an egg attack Critics wasted no time poking fun at the post. 'Ah, yes. The historically oppressed and marginalized class, 'influencers,' one Twitter user wrote in response. Another user tweeted: 'A whole Liza Koshy has been a regular attendee idk why he acting like he's the first.' Ridicule: It comes after he was mocked on social media this week for calling himself a 'catalyst', for scoring an invite to the Met Gala. Pictured in New York on Monday James, who hails from Albany, New York, rose to international stardom in 2015 after launching his own YouTube channel. He now has over 16million Instagram followers and YouTube subscribers and in 2016, he became the first male ambassador for CoverGirl. His support for marijuana law reform is well-known. But as he continues to film his new unnamed Netflix documentary in the US, My Kitchen Rules judge Pete Evans, 46, has expressed his support for legalising psychedelic mushrooms. Pete made the comments on Thursday while reacting to voters in Denver, Colorado, voting to loosen restrictions on the personal use of the drug known as 'magic mushrooms.' Having his say: MKR judge Pete Evans (pictured) reveals he wants psychedelic mushrooms to be legalised 'Big day in Denver, Colorado today when they vote whether or not to decriminalise psilocybin mushrooms,' he wrote on Instagram, underneath a poster for the decriminalisation campaign. When news came through that voters in Denver had approved the change, Pete was quick to show his approval for the measure known as Initiated Ordinance 301. 'Looking forward to watching this closely and to see where this goes,' he wrote, prefacing his caption with a mushroom emoji and a peace sign. New backing: 'Big day in Denver, Colorado today when they vote whether or not to decriminalise psilocybin mushrooms,' he wrote on Instagram, underneath a poster for the decriminalisation campaign (pictured) Reaction: When news came through that voters in Denver had approved the change, Pete was quick to show his approval for the measure When questioned by one of his followers about whether the mushrooms could cause problems for people with chronic mental illness, Pete told her to do some more research. 'Have a read on @mapsnews (Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies) at the work they are doing and many other psychedelics in clinical settings,' he said. The TV judge is a proud advocate of marijuana legalisation, who has been flying around America in the past week filming a new Netflix documentary about cannabis. Earlier this week, Pete travelled to Oregon in the US, to learn about how cannabis is sold for personal use in specially-licensed dispensaries. Jet-setter! Pete Evans, 46, travelled to Oregon earlier this week to learn about how cannabis is sold in specially-licensed dispensaries for his new documentary In awe: 'Just got to Portland and visiting a dispensary that displays their cannabis in a unique way (pictured) - almost like a jewelry store,' the My Kitchen Rules judge told his Instagram followers 'Just got to Portland and visiting a dispensary that displays their cannabis in a unique way - almost like a jewelry store,' the My Kitchen Rules judge told his Instagram followers. With the sound of a customer buying products from the store in the background, Pete showed how different strains of the drug were displayed in elaborate cabinets. The variants, labelled with names like Mars Rover, Purple Punch and Silverback Stiletto, were ranked as to their strength and constitution - much to the TV chef's awe. 'This was about a quarter of what they had on offer as well as all the other items in store,' he said as he concluded his post with a love heart. He also spent time in Colorado, where he gave a sneak peek into his new documentary, which is expected to screen on Netflix. On Saturday, the TV star boasted about having a 'great afternoon' with renowned herbalist Brigitte Mars in a very cheery photo. 'We talked about plant medicines in all forms': On Saturday, the TV star boasted about having a 'great afternoon' with renowned herbalist Brigitte Mars (L) in a very cheery photo Speaking about their interview in Boulder, Colorado, where the herb is also legal, Pete wrote: 'We talked about plant medicines in all forms from psychedelics through to all the different medicinal herbs she uses in her clinic.' Referencing its legalisation, Pete went on to say 'sharing some herbal medicines on the streets of Boulder seems as normal as a glass of wine'. He went on to praise her knowledge and her activism for the responsible and respectful use of plant medicines and her belief in education. Julianne Moore has made waves as a Hollywood leading lady since the 1990s. The Academy Award winner has also been known to make a bold fashion statement on the red carpet with some captivating and eye-catching ensembles. And on Wednesday, the 58-year-old star kept up with longstanding reputation when she attended the much-anticipated Louis Vuitton 2020 Cruise runway show at New York's John F. Kennedy Airport. Scroll down to videos Stunner: Julianne Moore attended the much-anticipated Louis Vuitton 2020 Cruise runway show at New York's John F. Kennedy Airport on Wednesday Opting for flash over subtlety, the Still Alice star popped under the spotlight in a silver sequin skirt over black stockings. She paired with a white cropped leather jacket that had black and white checkers along the sleeves and black leather booties. For an extra dose of pizzazz, the jacket had a furry emerald green cape draped along the back. Moore rounded out her look by pulling her trademark ginger tresses back into a ponytail with a part on the slight right, and by wearing complimentary eye shadow around her dark eyeliner. Wow factor: The actress popped under the spotlight in a silver sequin skirt and black stockings with a white cropped leather jacket that had black and white checkers along the sleeves Extra dose of pizzazz: The jacket had a furry emerald green cape draped along the back The actress gave her 1.2 million Instagram followers a behind-the-scenes look at her festive, high-fashion day. In one picture posted on her Insta-Story, she could bee seen striking a pose during a photo shoot before heading over to the airport. There's also a quick video of her getting her hair styled with the headline: 'Advanced Barbie' and another clip of her laughing in the backseat of her car that was captioned: 'On the way to the airport in rush hour traffic @louisvuitton.' Insider: Moore gave her 1.2 million Instagram followers a behind-the-scenes look High-fashion: The Still Alice star also showcased her style preps Nicolas Ghesquiere has made a point to find eye-catching and exotic locations to showcase the latest collection of LV, which includes having models hit the catwalk at the Miho Museum in Japan for Resort 2018 and the Cote dAzur in Monaco for Cruise 2019. This go-around he brought the Louis Vuitton stage and LV's Cruise 2020 collection to JFK Airport's newly renovated TWA Flight Center. The mid-century architectural landmark has been closed since 2001. But it's set to reopen to the public May 15, a week after Louis Vuitton show. On the go: Moore was giddy with excitement in a video clip showing her leaving for the event Another day, another photo op for actress Lily Collins. After turning heads at the Montclair Film Festival in New Jersey on Tuesday night, the daughter of rock star Phil Collins did it all again at a special screening of Tolkien in Los Angeles on Wednesday evening. Collins, 30, put on another stylish show in a powder blue halter top and full-length multi-colored skirt. Dressed for success: Lily Collins, 30, put on another stylish show in a powder blue halter top and full-length multi-colored skirt at a screening in LA for Tolkien on Wednesday evening Her skirt that featured hues of purple, dark red, dark blue and gold had a shimmery sheen to it. The actress wore a gold metallic belt around her waist and had a gold clasp at the base of the bun piled high on top of her head. She was made up with eye shadow that matched the color of her top along with plenty of blusher and glossy lip color. Dazzling: Her skirt that featured hues of purple, dark red, dark blue and gold had a shimmery sheen to it. Her halter top revealed the tattoo inked across the top of her back Coordinated ensemble: The actress wore a gold metallic belt around her waist and had a gold clasp at the base of the bun piled high on top of her head Stylish duo: Collins was joined at the event by her co-star Nicholas Hoult, 29, who complemented Collins's ensemble in a pink two-piece suit Collins was joined at the event by her co-star Nicholas Hoult. The actor, 29, complemented Collins's ensemble in a pink two-piece suit. The jacket was fastened with one button over a white shirt done up at the collar and he stepped out in a pair of sneakers. Dapper: Hoult's jacket was fastened with one button over a white shirt done up at the collar and he stepped out in a pair of sneakers Team: The biographical drama about The Hobbit and Lord Of The Rings author is directed by Dome Karukoski, pictured with Hoult and Collins, and opens in theatres Friday In the biographical drama, Hoult stars as J.R.R. Tolkien, the author of The Hobbit and The Lord Of The Rings trilogy, and Collins plays the love of his life Edith Bratt. The film explores the writer and academics early years from losing his parents as a child to the circle of close friends he forged at school to his experiences during the First World War. It also recounts the love affair between Tolkein and Bratt who first met when he was 16 and she was 19. Tolkien is directed by Finnish director Dome Karukoski and opens in theatres on Friday. Saturday Night Live legends Amy Poehler, Tina Fey and Maya Rudolph reunited on the red carpet of Netflix's Wine Country in New York City on Wednesday night. The upcoming comedy, which debuts on the Netflix streaming service on May 10, marks the feature directorial debut of Poehler, 47, who also stars with Fey, 48, and Rudolph, 46. Amy, one of the original founders of the iconic improv theatre Upright Citizens Brigade, had previously directed episodes of her hit sitcom Parks and Recreation, plus an episode of Broad City, but this is her first feature directing effort. Back together: Amy Poehler, (left) Tina Fey, (right) and Maya Rudolph reunited at the red carpet premiere of Netflix's Wine Country at the Paris Theatre in New York on Wednesday That's how to stand out: Maya Rudolph wore a billowing layered floral gown to the event Poehler was all smiles in a sharp pantsuit, with a navy blue dress shirt, and a black and grey coat with red trim on the lapels and cuffs. She also wore matching pants, along with a pair of red heels that matched the trim on her coat. She completed her look with a small gold chain dangling around her neck, which held a small gold pendant. Directing debut: This is Amy's first feature directing effort but she has previously directed episodes of her hit sitcom Parks and Recreation Star-studded: Poehler, Fey and Rudolph lead a star-studded cast that also includes several other female comedic heavyweights, such as Rachel Dratch, Paula Pell and Ana Gateyer Tina was wearing a sleeveless floral print powder blue dress to the premiere, held at the Paris Theatre in New York City. She completed her outfit with a set of black heels at the premiere screening. Wine Country centers on a group of friends who head to Napa Valley to celebrate one of the friends' 50th birthday, as tensions from the past begin to escalate. Red carpet style: Tina wore a blue trouser suit along with a pair of red heels that matched the trim on her coat Maya's look: Rudolph, 46, celebrated in a flowing white dress with turquoise floral prints that fell to her ankles Cosy: Amy and Seth Meyers posed with their arms around one another Rudolph, 46, celebrated in a flowing white dress with turquoise floral prints that fell to her ankles. She also wore matching earrings and rings to the premiere event, capping off her look with a pair of heels. Poehler, Fey and Rudolph lead a star-studded cast that also includes several other female comedic heavyweights, such as Rachel Dratch, Paula Pell and Ana Gateyer. Writers: Wine Country writers Liz Cackowski and Emly Spivey attend the Wine Country premiere Haim in the house: Alana Haim and Danielle Haim arrive at the Wine Country premiere Erin is here: Erin Richards steps out at the Wine Country premiere Ana: Ana Gasteyer rocks a little black dress at the premiere Pals: She caught up with Boardwalk Empire star Steve Buscemi for a chat and a snap Girl talk: Maya, Ana and director Amy enjoyed a glass of wine at the event Things to say: Sophia Coppola and Jason Schwartzman sat together in a booth Wine Country will be Poehler's second Netflix outing this year, having co-created the hit series Russian Doll with Leslye Headland and series star Natasha Lyonne. Rudolph is lending her voice to the Nanny in the animated comedy The Willoughbys, and she also voices several characters on Netflix's Big Mouth. Fey co-created Netflix's Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt with Robert Carlock, which closed out its fourth and final season in January. All smiles: Laura Schulman is wonderful in white at the Wine Country premiere Friends in high places: Maya hung out with Cynthia Rowley at the event, with them both wearing pretty pink outfits Brady and Jason: Brady Cunningham and Jason Schwartzman are on the red carpet Scott is here: Scott Adsit shows his support on the red carpet, (left), alongside Tony Hale (right) As one of Hollywood's most acclaimed actresses, Cate Blanchett has graced plenty of red carpets in her time. And on Wednesday, the Ocean's 8 star dressed to impress at the Louis Vuitton Cruise 2020 fashion show in New York City. The 49-year-old thespian looked remarkably stylish in an edgy leather jacket and matching pants. Hell for leather! Cate Blanchett turned heads in an edgy cropped jacket and matching pants at the Louis Vuitton fashion show in New York City on Wednesday Cate's cropped jacket featured Louis Vuitton's iconic gold hardware, and her high-waisted pants were also adorned with gold zippers. The statuesque actress completed her look with black pointed heels and styled her shoulder-length blonde hair in loose curls. Cate, who is known for films including The Lord of the Rings and Elizabeth, displayed her porcelain complexion with flawlessly applied makeup. She's glowing! Cate, who is known for films including The Lord of the Rings and Elizabeth, displayed her porcelain complexion with flawlessly applied makeup Looking good! Cate's cropped jacket featured Louis Vuitton's iconic gold hardware, and her high-waisted pants were also adorned with gold zippers Cate appeared in high spirits at the fashion event, smiling as she mingled with other celebrity guests at JFK Airport. At one stage, she was pictured on the front row with fellow actresses Emma Stone, Jennifer Connelly and Julianne Moore. Other guests included Michelle Williams. In good company! Cate was pictured on the front row with fellow actresses Emma Stone, Jennifer Connelly and Julianne Moore Stepping out: Other guests at JFK Airport included Michelle Williams (third from left) Cate reflected on her incredible career last year, telling Harper's Bazaar that she is unsure of what direction to take next. 'I don't know what I am going to do next as an actor,' she said. 'I never do really. But I feel like I've got probably a couple more years left in it, before I lose my sanity!' George Clooney was his dapper self attending a screening of Hulu's Catch-22, a dramatic comedy miniseries based on the novel from Joseph Heller. The Oscar-winner, 58, donned a black suit over a blue button-down shirt as walked the red carpet at the Saban Media Center in North Hollywood. The Ocean's Eleven star posed alongside Catch-22 executive producer/director Grant Heslov during entrances, and the pair addressed the crowd onstage at the screening of the series, which is set amid World War II. A-lister George Clooney, 58, was his dapper self attending a screening of his new show, Hulu's Catch-22, on Wednesday with executive producer/director Grant Heslov at the Saban Media Center in North Hollywood, California Others snapped at the event included actors Kyle Chandler and Christopher Abbott; and producers Ellen Kuras, Richard Brown and Luke Davies. Clooney on Tuesday fielded questions from Extra about murmurs Meghan Markle and Prince Harry had named him the godfather to their newborn son, Archie Harrison. The A-list actor said the rumor was 'not true,' adding, 'You don't want me to be a godparent of anybody ... everybody loves their rumors.' The father-of-two, to one-year-old twins Alexander and Ella with wife Amal, said in jest, 'I'm barely a parent at this point - it's frightening.' Dapper: The Oscar-winner, 58, donned a black suit over a blue button-down shirt at the event Return: The series, which is set amid World War II, marks Clooney's return to TV in more than a decade, since a 2009 appearance on ER Clearing it up: The A-list actor said the rumor Meghan Markle and Prince Harry had named him the godfather to their newborn son Archie Harrison was 'not true' Clooney also joked about sharing his birthday, which was Monday, with the newborn royal: 'It's kind of irritating if you think about it, cause I've already had to split it with Orson Welles, Sigmund Freud, and now this comes in ... I'm moving down the line very quickly.' Clooney is already a familiar face on Hulu, which streams past episodes of his breakout series, ER. What a day: Clooney joked about sharing his May 6 birthday with Orson Welles, Sigmund Freud, and the newest member of the royal family Chatting: Clooney and Heslov addressed the crowd onstage at the screening of the series Proud dad: Clooney is a father-of-two, to one-year-old twins Alexander and Ella with his wife Amal Clooney 'They're running reruns of ER on Hulu and we were just doing the Hulu upfronts,' he said. 'And somebody's been watching that, and they're like, "That's you on ER?" You don't look so good up close - I was like, "Hey, listen, you little s**t!" The actor is also going to appear on a limited-run series based on Watergate. 'I didn't care about the medium, I just like the work,' he said. Catch-22 is slated to debut on Hulu May 22. Stellar cast: Actors Kyle Chandler (L) and Christopher Abbott were snapped on the red carpet Instagram queen Tammy Hembrow has suffered an epic fake tan fail. On Wednesday, the 25-year-old revealed a very orange hue as she hit the red carpet at the Fashion Nova X Cadi B collection launch in Los Angeles. Clad in a skimpy black black satin bustier, a very tanned Tammy made sure all eyes were on her ample assets. Tangerine Tammy! Instagram star Hembrow has suffered a disastrous fake tan fail, and revealed her orange hue on the red carpet at the Fashion Nova X Cadi B collection launch on Wednesday It's all happening: Tammy appeared to go light on the bronzer, and her visage failed to match the skin tone of the rest of her body. She also suffered a slight nip slip However the low-cut top struggled to contain her cleavage, and the mother-of-two suffered a slight nip slip. Tammy paired her racy attire with a matching black mini skirt that skimmed her thighs and flaunted plenty of her pins. She opted for a glossy makeup look, with dark eye makeup and a pink eye shadow that matched her new coral-coloured tresses. However, the buxom social media star appeared to go light on the bronzer, and her visage failed to match the skin tone of the rest of her body. Flashing the flesh: She paired the low-cut top with a matching black mini-skirt that skimmed her thighs and flaunted plenty of her pins The star-studded event was held at the Hollywood Palladium, with blogger Perez Hilton and internet star Jake Paul also in attendance. Tammy took to Instagram prior to the event, sharing a snap of herself sitting in a beige chair as she debuted her new tresses. 'Fr who is she?' Tammy captioned the racy snap. Rubbing shoulders: The star-studded event was held at the Hollywood Palladium, with blogger Perez Hilton and internet star Jake Paul also in attendance The change comes after Tammy recently revealed her 'struggle' with her mental and physical health, calling herself the 'least fit' she's even been. Taking to Instagram, the blonde bombshell shared a racy clip of herself clad in a high-cut leopard print one piece . 'Crazy what a couple of months of not being consistent does to both my mental and physical health,' Tammy wrote, adding the video was a throwback. How does she do it? The social media star unveiled her body secrets to New Idea magazine back in 2017, confessing to training three to five days a week She added: 'I feel the least fit I've been pretty much ever. Time to get my health grind harder than ever.' Tammy finished by saying it was important to understand that 'everyone's weight fluctuates so don't be hard on yourself just get back on it.' The social media star unveiled her body secrets to New Idea magazine back in 2017, confessing to training three to five days a week. Booty-ful: Tammy has said she likes to train with a combination of HIIT, weights and cardio in order to maintain her physique She said she prefers a combination of HIIT, weights and cardio. Tammy emphasised the importance of eating protein-rich food and complex carbohydrates to maintain her flawless physique. 'For me lean protein like chicken breast, turkey and fish, really helps, but I find that with trying to build my booty I wasn't consuming the amount of protein I needed so supplements like protein shakes helped too,' she said. She's living the life of a Parisian in France. And on Wednesday, Australian actress Melissa George looked tres chic as she arrived at the Opera Garnier 350th Anniversary Gala in Paris on Wednesday. The 42-year-old looked absolutely breathtaking in a powder blue haute couture gown by Italian fashion house, Schiaparelli. Tres chic! Australian actress Melissa George, 42, looks stunning in a powder blue haute couture gown as she arrived at the Opera Garnier 350th Anniversary Gala in Paris on Wednesday The extravagant dress featured in Schiaparelli's haute couture Spring/Summer 2019 runway show in January. The former Home And Away star's strapless frock featured many frills - inspired by flower petals - and black lace trimming under the circle skirt design. She paired the look with black lace heels, a dark perspex box clutch and small drop ear rings. A night at the Opera: The 42-year-old looked absolutely breathtaking in a powder blue haute couture gown by Italian fashion house, Schiaparelli Melissa's locks were placed up in an elegant coiffed updo, with slight strands left out to frame her face. The Perth-born star embraced her natural complexion, with a flawless application of makeup highlighting her cheeks and eyes. 'So lucky to be heading to the #operagarnier to celebrate 350 years,' she announced on Instagram, before sharing photos and videos from within the exclusive event. In bloom! The former Home And Away star's strapless frock featured many frills - inspired by flower petals - and black lace trimming under the circle skirt design Melissa moved to the United States in 1997 to pursue an acting career, but has been based in France for the past few years. She is best known for her roles in Mullholland Drive, Down with Love, Alias, Greys Anatomy and The Good Wife. The actress shares two sons, Raphael, five, and Solal, three, with her French entrepreneur ex, Jean David Blanc. They're considered the most beautiful women in the women. And Devon Windsor and Cara Santana proved worthy of the title as they looked every inch the cover girls in New York City on Wednesday. The blonde bombshell, 25, dazzled in a revealing white ensemble as the brunette stunner, 34, rocked a Givenchy floral pajama suit for Olivia Culpo's birthday party at the celebrity hot spot Catch. Stunners: Devon Windsor, 25, and Cara Santana, 34, looked every inch the cover girls in New York City on Wednesday Daring to impress, Devon flaunted her ample cleavage in the white bustier top as she paired the look with matching leggings and flowing coat. She was flying solo on the outing as her fiance Johnny Dex not seen. The couple became engaged last June, after more than two years of dating, with a very romantic proposal. While taking a plane ride, the blonde bombshell was able to see 'Marry Me?' spelled out on the sand of a private beach in the Bahamas. Impressive: Daring to impress, Devon flaunted her ample cleavage in the white bustier top as she paired the look with matching leggings and flowing coat Solo: She was flying solo on the outing as her fiance Johnny Dex not seen Devon has walked in the coveted Victoria's Secret Fashion Show six times, last appearing on the runway for the lingerie label in November. Cara framed her famous figure in the high end label design that originally retailed for over $1600. Not pictured was Cara's fiance Jesse Metcalfe, who Cara has been dating on and off for 13 years and became engaged to in 2016. Flawless: Cara framed her famous figure in the high end label design that originally retailed for over $1600 All by herself: Not pictured was Cara's fiance Jesse Metcalfe, who Cara has been dating on and off for 13 years and became engaged to in 2016 'It's been a long time coming, but we couldn't be happier,' Jesse told US Weekly. But Cara said the couple are 'no where near' ready for the wedding yet as she said they have 'no plans. Were totally enjoying it, so hopefully well find something soon.' 'Jesse and I have been together for a really long time, like 13 years, and I think thats the great thing about having that comfortability in a relationship is knowing that you have a support system, one another, and we listen to each other,' she told Us. Birthday girl: Olivia Culpo looked sophisticated chic as she made her way to her birthday party Your flight is now boarding: Olivia looked flight attendant-chic in her retro mini dress George Clooney makes some new revelations about his twin children and the accident that nearly killed him on Thursday's episode of Ellen. The 58 year old actor and Casamigos founder started discussing his twins Alexander and Ella, who will turn two years old in June, revealing that Alexander is taller and they're both very different, despite being fraternal twins. 'They have their own personalities. He goes outside and hugs my car,' Clooney said, which got a laugh from the crowd. Clooney's revelations: George Clooney makes some new revelations about his twin children and the accident that nearly killed him on Thursday's episode of Ellen He went on to joke that it's really 'bad when I'm driving. He gets stuck right in the wheel well.' 'And then my daughter is up in my wife's closet with purses going, "Mine," so I see this is gonna be a fun life for me,' Clooney added. The iconic actor added that, despite his kids about to enter the dreaded 'terrible twos,' they are, 'very well-behaved' and they sleep in their own room. Daughter: 'And then my daughter is up in my wife's closet with purses going, "Mine," so I see this is gonna be a fun life for me,' Clooney added He then went on to express his frustration that his son is starting to take after his 'very British wife' Amal, since he caught him saying zebra as 'zeh-bra.' 'I'm gonna fix that, though. That's not gonna happen,' Clooney firmly said, while adding that they definitely have his, 'wife's brains.' 'They're not quite two, and they can count to 20 in English and Italian,' Clooney said, since the family splits their time in the U.S., Britain and Italy. British accent: He then went on to express his frustration that his son is starting to take after his 'very British wife' Amal, since he caught him saying zebra as 'zeh-bra' Clooney also spoke about his new Hulu series Catch-22, and the highly-publicized motorcycle accident he suffered while on the set in Sardinia. 'I was on a motorcycle scooter, but a big one, and a guy turned in front of me and I hit him at about 70 miles an hour,' Clooney said, which drew gasps from the crowd. 'So, I got launched. I crushed his windshield in with my head and then I went flying up in the air afterwards, knocked me out of my shoes. And I actually thought that was it. If you did it 100 times, 99 times I wouldn't be around, so I used up nine lives and my wife and I said I'm off two wheels.' Accident: Clooney also spoke about his new Hulu series Catch-22, and the highly-publicized motorcycle accident he suffered while on the set in Sardinia Ellen felt bad that he was done 'riding' as it were, so she brought out a present, a small scooter with some motorcycle-like accessories, and even one of the covers that named him People Magazine's Sexiest Man Alive.' 'So, now, I'm AARP's Sexiest Man Still Alive,' the actor joked, as he sat on his scooter before zooming around the studio. 'I've never felt more masculine,' Clooney joked while riding the scooter in reverse. 'It's a good thing I'm married, 'cause it's over,' he added. Clooney's new series Catch-22 debuts Friday, May 17 on Hulu. Sexiest man alive: 'So, now, I'm AARP's Sexiest Man Still Alive,' the actor joked, as he sat on his scooter before zooming around the studio She never gets it wrong when it comes to the red carpet, always looking nothing short of glamorous. And on Thursday, Lara Bingle dressed up to the nines as she enjoyed a day out. The 31-year-old former model took to Instagram to share a stunning selfie where she experimented with her look, wearing a plunging eighties-inspired outfit. Turning heads! Lara Bingle (pictured) stunned in a daring purple outfit on Thursday, that was eighties-inspired Lara was clad in a quirky Alexandre Vauthier piece, which was embellished with diamantes and featured daring shoulder pads. The mother-of-two paired the gown with chunky green earrings and opted to wear her blonde tresses slicked down around her face. The former bikini model has undergone a fashion transformation in recent years, trading in her swimsuits for glamorous and edgy outfits by designers. She's got style! The former bikini model has undergone a fashion transformation in recent years, trading in her swimsuits for glamorous and edgy outfits by designers. Pictured last week in New York Lara meanwhile - who is married to Australian actor Sam Worthington and who has since taken on his surname - made headlines last week. The stunner found herself feeling very uncomfortable on Friday during an appearance on Channel Seven's The Morning Show. In a live interview segment captioned, 'Under the covers, model's new bedroom obsession', Lara was promoting Sheridan's new range of organic linen when Morning Show co-host Kylie Gillies asked a very cheeky question about Sam. Awkward! Lara meanwhile - who is married to Australian actor Sam Worthington - made headlines last week. The stunner found herself feeling very uncomfortable on Friday during an appearance on Channel Seven's The Morning Show (pictured) 'When Sam gets home after a busy day of being an action hero does he get to enjoy the linen as well?' asked Kylie, 51. Lara laughed nervously and looked visibly uncomfortable while trying to think of an answer to Kylie's ribald question. 'Ummm, I mean, he, I just...' began Lara before shrugging her shoulders and saying, 'I dunno, I don't think he knows if he's on linen or cotton or you know he just jumps...' Cheeky: 'When Sam gets home after a busy day of being an action hero does he get to enjoy the linen as well?' asked Kylie, 51. Lara is pictured with Sam She finished by saying: 'If the bed's made every day it's good.' Co-host Larry Emdur, 54, then apologised to Lara for the risque question: 'Lara I apologise for Kylie's question, the interview was going so well right up until that point.' 'Just pushed a bit too far I think, crossed a line there, darl,' added Larry jokingly. Lara graciously smiled but crossed her arms as Kylie replied: 'Not at all, I'm sure Lara wanted me to ask that.' Former bikini model Lara lives a quiet life in America with husband Sam and their two sons Rocket, four, and Racer, two. Her independent film The Farewell has been playing the festival circuit since premiering at Sundance in January. And on Wednesday night, Awkwafina showed up for a special screening of the movie at the 35th LA Asian Pacific Film Festival in Los Angeles. The actress and rapper, 29, wore a white dress decorated with black rose motifs for the screening. Supporting her movie: Awkwafina showed up for a special screening of her independent film The Farewell held at the 35th LA Asian Pacific Film Festival in Los Angeles on Wednesday night The frock had an asymmetrical hemline and she paired it with a black leather jacket. She went bare-legged in white PVC shoes from Stella Luna and carried a black purse. Joining Awkwafina at the event was The Farewell's writer and director Lulu Wang. Monochrome style: The actress and rapper, 29, wore a white dress decorated with black rose motifs which she paired with a black leather jacket and white PVC shoes from Stella Luna Pals: Joining Awkwafina at the event was The Farewell's writer and director Lulu Wang Wang also wore a black leather jacket over a white top with wide-legged black pants and black heeled shoes The Ocean's Eight and Crazy Rich Asians actress stars in the dramedy as a Chinese-American woman called Billi who finds out that her grandmother is dying of cancer. In line with Chinese tradition, the family hasn't told the grandmother that she is terminally sick. Instead, they decide to organize a cousin's wedding in China as a way to bring everyone together one last time before she passes. The Farewell will be released in theatres on July 12. She was seen hobbling on crutches after sustaining an injury at the end of last month. But Alicia Vikander proved she had made a quick recovery as she made a stylish arrival to Louis Vuitton's star-studded Cruise 2020 show at JFK Airport's newly renovated TWA terminal in New York on Wednesday. The Tomb Raider star, 30, looked sensational as she showed off her bronzed legs in a pretty floral minidress with a Victorian style white bib. There she is! Alicia Vikander, 30, made a stylish arrival to Louis Vuitton's star-studded Cruise 2020 show at JFK Airport's newly renovated TWA terminal in New York on Wednesday The Tomb Raider star looked incredible in the thigh-skimming number which drew attention to her tiny waist thanks to a thick square belt. The dress boasted a structured neckline and puffy sleeves and perfectly flattered her slender figure. Alicia sported tousled shoulder-length brunette locks, and enhanced her striking features with a dewy coat of make-up, consisting of rosy blush and highlighter. Boosting her height in a pair of black boots, Alicia looked in high spirits as she posed while toting her belongings in a chic orange shoulder bag. Fashionista: The Tomb Raider star looked sensational as she showed off her bronzed legs in a pretty floral minidress with a Victorian style white bib Style star: The Tomb Raider star looked incredible in the thigh-skimming number which drew attention to her tiny waist thanks to a thick square belt It is unknown how Alicia sustained her recent injury, which she has appeared to overcome. The actress and her X-Men star husband have been in the Irish capital as Alicia films for the Green Knight - a fantasy retelling of the medieval story Sir Gawain and the Green Knight. The film, directed by David Lowery, stars Dev Patel as Sir Gawain - a knight of King Arthur's Round Table who accepts a challenge to behead the mysterious Green Knight. Beauty: Alicia sported tousled shoulder-length brunette locks, and enhanced her striking features with a dewy coat of make-up, consisting of rosy blush and highlighter Standing tall: Boosting her height in a pair of black boots, Alicia looked in high spirits as she posed while toting her belongings in a chic orange shoulder bag It is based on a 14th century Middle English poem and is one of the most well known of the Arthurian stories. Erin Kellyman, Ralph Ineson and Barry Keoghan are also set to feature in the film. Alicia and Michael made their couple debut on the red carpet of the Golden Globe Awards in 2016. Trendsetter: The dress boasted a structured neckline and puffy sleeves and perfectly flattered her slender figure All is well! Alicia appeared to overcome her recent injury as she posed away with Emma Stone and Michelle Williams Things went from strength to strength and the pair went on to tie the knot in a romantic ceremony in Ibiza in 2017, with film director Steve McQueen among those on the guest list. Alicia and Michael have since relocated to Lisbon together, of which the actress told Elle: 'When I met my husband three and a half years ago, he had mentioned hed been to Lisbon and loved it, and I knew friends who were moving out there. 'And that was a time when I was just starting to feel really at home in London. But after Brexit I think I was like, "Meh, you know what, I want to stay in Europe."' It was the movie that solidified her as a bonafide Hollywood star. And 27 years on, Sharon Stone recreated her famous interrogation pose from the 1992 cult favourite Basic Instinct as she went topless for a sizzling spread for Vogue Portugal. The American actress, 61, claimed in the accompanying interview that early on in her career actresses had to be deemed 'f***able' by studio executives in order to get parts - and she actively tried to become more 'employable' by turning herself into a sex symbol. Not so Basic! Sharon Stone, 61, recreated her famous interrogation pose from the 1992 cult favourite Basic Instinct as she went TOPLESS for a sizzling spread for Vogue Portugal Sharon said she did a 'strategically planned' racy Playboy shoot in 1990 to coincide with the release of sci-fi thriller Total Recall, in which she appeared opposite Arnold Schwarzenegger, to change the perception of her as an actress. The decision worked as it led to her being cast in her most famous role - Basic Instinct. She told Vogue Portugal: 'When I entered the business the term "f***able" was used to see if you were employable. 'The studio executives sat around a large table and discussed whether or not each of us was in fact "f***able". They thought I was not. 'I gave this some hard thought as I wanted to work, so I did a strategically planned a semi-naked Playboy shoot. Did I fit the part? Obviously not. 'Did I use my brain to figure out how to appear "f***able"? You bet ... But I didn't and I don't [feel like a sex symbol].' Sharon set pulses racing as she forewent her top while cladding the rest of her figure in a tailored one-piece while lounging on a couch for the magazine's 'Sex Issue.' Basic Instinct became one of the most talked about movies in 1992 due to its graphic depiction of sex. Still got it: For the cover shot, the movie star shows off her sensational cleavage in a perilously plunging leotard and fishnet tights Throwback: Sharon proved she hasn't aged a day since her iconic pose in the 1992 erotic thriller Basic Instinct (L) And Sharon, who wowed in her portrayal of Catherine Tramell after the likes of Michelle Pfeiffer and Demi Moore turned it down, proved she was grateful for the role as she re-imagined her iconic scene nearly 30 years later for the fashion bible. For the cover shot, Sharon shows off her sensational cleavage in a perilously plunging leotard and fishnet tights. Gazing seductively at the camera for the fashion bible, Sharon flaunts her envy-inducing legs in a pair of fishnet tights and black high heels. Going braless under her bodysuit, Sharon is seen bringing her hands forward to ensure the one-piece doesn't expose too much. In another racy image, she proudly bares all once again as she goes swimming. Steamy: In another racy image, she proudly bares all once again as she goes swimming Bottoms up! Sharon cheekily flashes a peek of her bottom in a sexy thigh-high split dress 'Great taste and style': Sharon couldn't resist adding a gushing caption as she shared the images on her Instagram Sharing the images on her Instagram, Sharon added a gushing caption: 'Love you Vogue Portugal: what great taste, style and wonderful talent I had the pleasure of working with! Thank You! Sharon Stone @vogueportugal (repost).' While she became a worldwide star with her lead role in the erotic thriller, Basic Instinct (1992), alongside Michael Douglas, Sharon actually made her film debut as an extra in Woody Allen's Stardust Memories in 1980, when she was 22. Stone went on to have her first big break in Police Academy 4: Citizens On Patrol (1987), and then wowed once again in 1990's Total Recall alongside Arnold Schwarzenegger. Sharon's impressive acting resume also includes her Oscar-nominated performance in Casino (1995), as well as Sphere (1998), Catwoman (2004) Broken Flowers (2005) and Alpha Dog (2006). Star: Sharon, who wowed in her portrayal of Catherine Tramell, proved she was grateful for the role as she re-imagined her iconic scene nearly 30 years later for the fashion bible Success: Basic Instinct was the movie that solidified Sharon's career as a bonafide Hollywood star alongside Michael Douglas The icon most recently starred in the TNT series Mosaic and she's also slated to star in the upcoming series, The New Pope. Sharon also stars in the upcoming series Ratched, and upcoming movies What About Love and an untitled project with Robert De Niro and Meryl Streep, directed by Martin Scorsese. On the personal front, the star is a mother to three sons. She has 18-year-old Roan Joseph Bronstein, who she adopted with ex-husband Phil Bronstein in 2000. The beauty also has Quinn Kelly Stone, 12, and Laird Vonne Stone, 13, she adopted on her own. Balancing act: On the personal front, the star is a mother to three sons Jessika Power isn't the only thing Dan Webb wants out of his life. Following their split in April, the Married At First Sight groom documented himself having his large tribal tattoo removed on Wednesday afternoon. Despite flinching in footage shared to his Instagram Story, Dan, 35, said the pain 'wasn't that bad' as the large inking was lasered from his shoulder. Out with the old! MAFS' Dan Webb flinched while getting his tribal tattoo (pictured on his right shoulder before the procedure) removed on Wednesday afternoon Dan turned to Gold Coast's Lazco Tattoo Removal to get rid of the large inking. 'No numbing cream or anything required and was quick as could be,' he wrote afterwards, while promoting the business. Discussing the procedure on their Instagram, the company explained: 'Dan is lighting his chest/shoulder tattoo to make way for his new tattoo.' What pain? Despite flinching in footage shared to his Instagram Story, Dan, 35, went on to claim the pain 'wasn't that bad' as the large inking was lasered from his shoulder Make space! It's believed the piece is getting removed so he can get a fresh inking in that spot During his time on Married At First Sight earlier this year, the Gold Coast car broker was famed for his excessive body art. His most prominent piece is a portrait of his five-year-old son across his chest. After the show's final episode aired on April 08, Dan abruptly ended his relationship with Jessika as they clashed on live TV. Over: Dan left Married At First Sight in a relationship with Jessika Power (left) earlier this year The couple were appearing on spin-off show Talking Married to discuss their future outside of the experiment, before things took a drastic turn. In a tell-all YouTube video afterwards, Dan confessed his feelings of 'regret about ever meeting Jess'. After taking some time to heal from the heartbreak, Jessika has since bounced back with a $25,000 cosmetic transformation. She expressed she was left feeling 'broken' after Dan Webb broke up with her after the explosive Married At First Sight reunion episode. But it now appears Jessika Power has a new opinion on the split, saying she now thinks her ex was one of the 'snakiest' people on the show. Taking to her Instagram stories on Thursday night for a fan Q&A, the 27-year-old made the revelation after a fan asked her: 'Who was the snakiest person on the show?' Scroll down for video Changed your tune! Jessika Power (pictured) says she now believes Dan Webb was one of the 'snakiest' people on Married At First Sight, according to her social media posts on Thursday 'I know that I did some pretty snaky things on the show,' Jessika began. 'But in the aftermath and with everything that I've seen, I would have to say that Dan was one of the snakiest people on the show,' she adds. While it remains unclear why Jessika has had a sudden change in tune, it's a remarkably different stance against the man who chose to leave ex-'husband' Mick Gould for in the experiment. Acknowledgement?: While Jessika began the video saying 'I know that I did some pretty snaky things on the show' Daily Mail Australia has contacted Jessika for comment. The comments comes after stating on her Instagram that she felt 'broken' and 'alone' in a series of cryptic quotes. 'I have endured pain and loss, I have felt broken. I have known hardship, and I have felt lost and alone,' the post read. 'But here I stand, trying to move forward, one day at a time. 'I have endured pain and loss': Jessika posted this quote to her Instagram back in April 'I will remember the lessons in my life because they are making me who I am. Stronger.' The post came after Dan revealed in a YouTube video that he will never talk to Jessika again, just days after the MAFS reunion aired. 'I want to set the record straight - there is no way in the world I'd be getting back with Jess, no way. I won't ever speak of her again,' he said. Over: The Queensland car broker (right) split with Jessika after they clashed on the final Talking Married - just days after the shocking reunion aired 'It brought back the first reason why I broke up with her at the start. I've had trust issues throughout our relationship. Just the lies, you know?' Tearing up, Dan added he 'put himself through misery' by having an affair with Jessika behind the backs of their on-screen partners Tamara Joy and Mick Gould. 'I made myself look like a fool to have an affair on TV,' he said. She's been linked to One Direction star Liam Payne after the pair were seen on a dinner date. And Stella Maxwell was keeping a low profile when she headed out and about in New York City on Wednesday afternoon, donning a bold teal tracksuit. The Victoria's Secret Angel, 28, gave her sporty look a rock chic twist by adding a leather biker jacket. Sporty: Stella Maxwell was keeping a low profile when she headed out and about in New York City on Wednesday afternoon, donning a bold teal tracksuit Stella was hard to miss in her eye-catching loungewear, which she teamed with a pair of adidas sneakers. She shielded her eyes behind a pair of tinted shades and maximised her pout with a slick of pale pink lipstick. The blonde beauty wore her golden curls down loose and slung one hand in her tracksuit pocket as she strolled along the streets of the Big Apple. Layering up: The Victoria's Secret Angel, 28, gave her sporty look a rock chic twist by adding a leather biker jacket Dressed down for the day: Stella was hard to miss in her eye-catching loungewear, which she teamed with a pair of adidas sneakers Stella was recently linked to Liam Payne when the duo enjoyed a cosy dinner among friends at Grill Royal restaurant in Germany. It was revealed earlier in April the former One Direction star had parted ways from supermodel Naomi Campbell. Bedroom Floor hitmaker Liam appeared to be moving on with the Victoria's Secret Angel as they were seen 'deep in conversation' while at dinner together. Stepping out: Stella was recently linked to Liam Payne when the duo enjoyed a cosy dinner among friends at Grill Royal restaurant in Germany A source told The Sun of the pairing: 'Theyre both similar ages and bonded over their experiences in showbiz. 'They were seen deep in thought at the dinner and were clearly having a good time. Who knows where this could lead?' MailOnline previously contacted representatives for Liam and Stella for further comment. In December, Stella split from her long-term love Kristen Stewart after the pair had been dating for more than two years. Twilight star Kristen has now moved on with her latest girlfriend Sara Dinkin and the couple were seen out shopping for groceries on Saturday. Gemma Collins has revealed her mum Joan is 'on the mend' after she was taken to hospital on Wednesday. The TOWIE star, 38, paid a visit to St Bartholomew's Hospital in London on Thursday and took to Instagram stories to update fans on her mother's well-being. Sharing a tour of Joan's hospital room, Gemma vowed to go shopping with her at Louis Vuitton 'very soon' as she told her followers: 'Chilling with mummy in hospital, she's on the mend'. Health scare: Gemma Collins has revealed her mum Joan is 'on the mend' after she was taken to hospital on Wednesday Sharing another snap of Joan, laden with Louis Vuitton shopping bags, she wrote: 'Wishing my beautiful mummy a very speedy recovery whos in hospital tonight we will have you shopping very soon again JC hope this post cheers you up thank you to everyone at BARTS HOSPITAL for looking after my mum.' MailOnline has contacted Gemma's representatives for comment. Back in February, Joan was rushed to hospital with pneumonia. Devoted daughter: The TOWIE star, 38, paid her a visit at St Bartholomew's Hospital in London on Thursday and took to Instagram stories to update fans on her mother's well-being On the mend: Sharing a tour of Joan's hospital room, Gemma vowed to go shopping with her at Louis Vuitton 'very soon' as she told her followers: 'Chilling with mummy in hospital, she's on the mend' At the time, a source told MailOnline: 'Gemma is absolutely distraught. 'Her mum has been ill for some time but it has taken a real turn in the last day or two and and she has been taken to hospital which has been scary for Gemma, let alone Joan. 'Gemma wants to be there for her mum but has to try and deal with this alongside the fact Arg still hasn't apologised to her for his comments.' It comes as the Dancing On Ice star confirmed she had split from her on-off boyfriend James Argent once again - just two days after he confirmed they had reconciled. Sweet: Sharing another snap of Joan laden with Louis Vuitton shopping bags, she wrote: 'Wishing my beautiful mummy a very speedy recovery whos in hospital tonight we will have you shopping very soon again JC' Boasting she is now a single woman, the star took to social media to share with her fans that she is 'free at last.' The GC shared an image of her latest interview with MailOnline - that discusses her body confidence and new clothing range - alongside a statement that confirmed she and her Essex beau have split. The telling caption read: 'Thank you @dailymail for an amazing piece for my clothing brand taking it stateside L.A counting down the days next chapter of my life and very excited... single... successful.' Adding more salt to Argent's wounds, the blonde added the hashtags: '#divaforever #notimefordisrespect#freeatlast #knowyourworth.' Single: The health scare comes as the Dancing On Ice star confirmed she had split from her on-off boyfriend James Argent once again - just two days after he confirmed they had reconciled Last Wednesday, James confirmed that he and Gemma were back on - less than a week after they announced their split - by taking to Instagram with a sweet clip of them dancing, alongside the caption: 'Cant live with you...Cant live without you.' Their brief reunion came hot on the heels of reports that Gemma didn't tell James she was moving house following their previous split last month. Removal men were pictured at the reality star's home over the weekend, carrying boxes of her belongings and furniture out of the Essex pad. According to insiders speaking to The Sun, Arg had no idea Gemma was moving until he saw the photos, and has been left 'devastated' as his ex reportedly chucked out some of his belongings during the move. A source close to James said: 'James had no idea Gemma was moving out of the flat and the first he heard about it was after the pictures came out.' Taken at first glance one could be forgiven for thinking Wes Nelson has reunited with Megan Barton Hanson, four months after the Love Island couple ended their short-lived relationship. But the object of his desire in a recently posted Snapchat video obtained by The Sun is a pretty 21-year old called Olivia who bears more than a passing resemblance to his ex-girlfriend. TV personality Wes, also 21, was filmed passionately kissing the blonde while celebrating Liverpool's historic 4-0 win over FC Barcelona in the Champion's League semi-final on Tuesday evening. She looks familiar: Taken at first glance one could be forgiven for thinking Wes Nelson has reunited with Megan Barton Hanson, four months after the Love Island couple ended their short-lived relationship The pair appeared to make an instant connection after crossing paths during his visit to Merseyside club The Peacock, with both laughing and joking as they canoodled at an after-party held in honour of Liverpool's result. And sources claim they have already made tentative plans to see each other again, telling The Sun: 'Wes and Olivia hit it off right away and they couldnt stay away from each other all night. 'They didnt mind being filmed on Snapchat as they kissed in front of a crowd smiling and teasing each other. He's scored: TV personality Wes was filmed passionately kissing the blonde while celebrating Liverpool's historic 4-0 win over FC Barcelona 'Olivia is definitely Wes type and theyre likely to see each other again after meeting out on Tuesday.' The former Love Island star has moved on seamlessly following a recent split with Alicia 'Lissy' Roddy, who he dated for three weeks - his longest romance since parting ways with Megan in January. Wes and Lissy reportedly had a raging argument in the middle of a Los Angeles nightclub because the TV personality was 'acting like a single man' - and doesn't see himself settling down after his previous break-up. Separate ways: The former Love Island star has moved on seamlessly following a recent split with Alicia 'Lissy' Roddy, who he dated for three weeks - his longest romance since parting ways with Megan in January Following their very brief romance Lissy has unfollowed her ex on Instagram, however he still appears amicable as is yet to follow suit. The former couple originally met at the party thrown by fashion brand Nasty Gal in Dublin just two months after his split with Megan, with Love Island pal Josh Denzel acting as wing man for the encounter. Wes and Megan split during his appearance on Dancing On Ice in January, six months after first meeting in the Love Island villa. All over: Wes and Megan split during his appearance on Dancing On Ice in January, six months after first meeting in the Love Island villa She recently revealed that she has been suffering from the hair loss condition since she was a teenager. And Olivia Bentley stepped out for the first time on Thursday after revealing her secret battle with alopecia. The Made In Chelsea star, 23, was joined by her co-star James Taylor as they went on a stroll in London. Candid: Olivia Bentley stepped out for the first time on Thursday after revealing her secret battle with alopecia Olivia cut a casual figure in black leggings which she teamed with a grey T-shirt and a white sweatshirt over the top. She completed her look with a pair of white trainers, a black suede biker jacket and sunglasses. While James made a bold fashion choice in a bright orange hoodie with black skinny ripped jeans, white trainers and silver headphones. Pals: The Made In Chelsea star, 23, was joined by her co-star James Taylor as they went on a stroll in London Casual: Olivia cut a casual figure in black leggings which she teamed with a grey T-shirt and a white sweatshirt over the top, she layered them with a black suede biker jacket Bold look: While James made a bold fashion choice in a bright orange hoodie with black skinny ripped jeans, white trainers and silver headphones The two reality stars appeared in good spirits as they put on an animated and giddy display in London. Olivia's appearance comes after she revealed that she has been suffering from hair loss condition alopecia since she was a teenager. The reality star attempted to hide her 'bald patches and receding hairline' with hats and hairpieces after her locks began falling out when she was prescribed the contraceptive pill at the age of 16. Olivia detailed her battle with the condition in a new interview with this week's Hello! magazine, admitting she's been struggling with 'feelings of insecurity over the years' following her diagnosis. Battle: Olivia's appearance comes after she revealed that she has been suffering from hair loss condition alopecia since she was a teenager Olivia has now decided to speak out on the 'taboo' subject in the hope of encouraging other women 'to not feel upset or embarrassed anymore'. She said: 'I suffer from hair loss, from alopecia. It's left me with feelings of insecurity over the years, so I've tried to hide my bald patches and receding hairline by wearing hats and hairpieces, and dyeing my naturally dark brown hair blonde. 'Not enough is spoken about alopecia in women; its still a taboo subject we tend to hide. Now I hope that by coming forward, I will encourage other women and girls in the same situation not to feel upset or embarrassed any more'. The Made in Chelsea star said she noticed balls of hair in her shower after she was prescribed the contraceptive pill at 16. Confession: The reality star has attempted to hide her 'bald patches and receding hairline' with hats and hairpieces after her locks began falling out at the age of 16 Hidden: The television personality detailed her battle with the condition, admitting she's been struggling with 'feelings of insecurity over the years' following her diagnosis The aspiring fine art photographer said she would feel 'clumps of hair' falling into her hand whenever she washed it. She said: 'Every time I washed my hair in the shower, I could feel clumps of hair falling out in my hand. And whenever I brushed it, there would be masses of hair in the bristles. To go through that as a young girl was awful.' Olivia will be seen revealing her condition to members of the Made In Chelsea cast on Monday night's episode. In teaser scenes aired at the end of last week's show, she was seen breaking down to model boyfriend Digby Edgley amid fears he would leave her for a girl with 'long, flowing hair'. Speak out: Olivia has now decided to speak out on the 'taboo' subject in the hope of encouraging other women 'to not feel upset or embarrassed anymore' (pictured in March) Olivia and Digby confirmed they were back together in February after calling time on their tumultuous on-off relationship while filming the Made In Chelsea spin-off in Croatia last summer. 'It was nice having the break between the series,' Liv said, speaking to MailOnline in October, 'And it 100 percent gets really horrible. 'It's not been like when I broke up with Fred [Ferrier]. Because this relationship with Digby - well, I loved him. And having to see an ex is savage. We have all the same friends so it's not easy. 'Digby never listened when I tried to talk to him. I would have a conversation about things and if it didnt go well we'd have an argument in Croatia and because everyone else was out there they'd get involved and it all just turned nasty.' Opening up: Olivia will be seen revealing her condition to members of the Made In Chelsea cast on Monday night's episode Tough time: In scenes aired at the end of last week's show, she was seen breaking down to model boyfriend Digby Edgley amid fears he would leave her for a girl with 'long, flowing hair' They have both cemented their status as a-list models thanks to their respective careers. And Lady Mary Charteris and Arizona Muse continued to work their magic for the cameras as they posed away for a dinner hosted by Alice Naylor Leyland and Fenwick of Bond Street in London on Wednesday. Lady Mary, 32, stayed true to her edgy style with a semi-sheer polka dot print top and suede blazer, while Arizona shimmered in a blue star-print jumpsuit. Glam: Lady Mary Charteris (L) and Arizona Muse (R) worked their model magic for the cameras as they posed away for a dinner hosted by Fenwick of Bond Street in London on Wednesday Lady Mary looked sensational in her racy top which was effortlessly tucked into a pair of wide-leg black trousers. The DJ added to the look with a satin-lined black blazer and toted her belongings in a chic black bag with her name etched out on the front. The beauty's pastel pink locks was enhanced with a glamorous coat of blush-infused make-up as she mingled with others at the event. Lady Mary is the daughter of an eccentric Scottish aristocrat, the 13th Earl of Wemyss and 9th Earl of March. Looking good: Lady Mary stayed true to her edgy style with a semi-sheer polka dot print top and suede blazer Fashionista: The DJ added to the look with a satin-lined black blazer and toted a chic black bag with her name etched out on the front as she posed with Alice Naylor-Leyland (right) Pretty: The beauty's pastel pink locks was enhanced with a glamorous coat of blush-infused make-up as she mingled with others at the event. (With Amber Le Bon) Socialite: Lady Mary is the daughter of an eccentric Scottish aristocrat, the 13th Earl of Wemyss and 9th Earl of March She was raised on an estate in Gloucestershire featured in the Harry Potter films. Since launching herself as a model in her teens, Lady Mary has carved out a niche as the ultimate Sloane Raver. The star made money and a name for herself from various fashion endorsements, DJ-ing gigs and a near-naked wedding dress. Her social diary is an enviable round of parties, festivals and fashion shows, with celebrity friends. Wow: Arizona also showed off her style credentials in the pretty blue number, which boasted gold foiled sleeves on it, as she posed with Alice Catwalk: Arizona looked in her element as she strutted along in a pair of silver metallic shoes Date night: The mother-of-two kept in theme with a red star-design clutch as she enjoyed herself at the event with her husband Boniface Verney-Carron Love: The smitten pair couldn't help but look at each other adoringly as they enjoyed their evening Meanwhile, Arizona also showed off her style credentials in the pretty blue number, which boasted gold foiled sleeves on it. The mother-of-two kept in theme with a red star-design clutch as she enjoyed herself at the event with her husband Boniface Verney-Carron. Arizona's striking features were enhanced with a contoured make-up look and she added a pair of statement earrings to her look. Naomie Harris has revealed she's glad Phoebe Waller-Bridge is on hand to write Bond 25 as she'll 'ramp-up' the representation of women in the spy thriller. The actress, 42, was speaking candidly about the hotly-anticipated film while at the GQ Heroes Summit in association with Flannels at Soho Farmhouse in London on Wednesday. During the event, she said of the Fleabag creator: 'Phoebe Waller-Bridge is going to ramp up the female perspective on Bond 25. Time for a change: Naomie Harris revealed Bond 25 writer Phoebe Waller-Bridge will 'ramp up the female perspective' and said the 'days are numbered' for 007 'of old' 'The Bond of old, his days are numbered,' she concluded, suggesting that the writer will shake up what's come to be expected of the character. Naomie is set to reprise her role as Eve Moneypenny in the flick, which will also mark the final time Daniel Craig takes on the role of James Bond. Phoebe has consistently impressed with her writing talent, with her shows Fleabag and Killing Eve taking the world by storm in recent years. Looking forward to it: Of the Fleabag creator, 'Phoebe Waller-Bridge is going to ramp up the female perspective on Bond 25' New take: 'The Bond of old, his days are numbered,' she concluded, suggesting that the writer will shake up what's come to be expected of the character The latest film sees Bond living a tranquil live in Jamaica after leaving active service before Felix turns up asking for help in a mission to rescue a kidnapped scientist. The fierce mission turns out to be far more treacherous than expected, leading Bond onto the trail of a mysterious villain armed with dangerous new technology. Oscar winner and Bohemian Rhapsody star Rami Malek has been brought on board to play the villain in the upcoming film. Bond villain: Oscar winner and Bohemian Rhapsody star Rami Malek has been brought on board to play the villain in the upcoming film Also joining the cast are Dali Benssalah, Lashana Lynch, Ana De Armas as Paloma, David Dencik and Billy Magnussen. Ralph Fiennes (M), Lea Seydoux (Dr Madeleine Swann), Ben Whishaw (Q) and Rory Kinnear (Bill Tanner) are all set to make a return to screens in the movie. As well as Jamaica, filming will take place in Norway, Pinewood Studios, locations around London along with Matera, Italy. End of the road: The film will mark the final time Daniel Craig takes on the role of James Bond The upcoming film is reportedly operating under the working title Shatterhand, a reference to the original Ian Fleming novels where Bond and his nemesis, Ernst Stavro Blofeld, first appeared. Blofeld used the alias Dr Guntram Shatterhand in the 1964 novel You Only Live Twice, which follows Bond to Japan where he finds his arch- enemy living under that name, hinting at the setting and basis of the new film. Last month filming got underway on Bond 25 in Nittedal, Norway, where a mysterious, theatrically masked gunman was seen stumbling in pursuit of a terrified young girl as she fled across the ice. She's gearing up for the release of her new single, Best Friend's A**, which aptly features curvy Kim Kardashian in the video. And Paris Hilton was taking a break from her promotional duties on Wednesday, enjoying a whirlwind trip to Vienna to party with a group of social media influencers. The hotel heiress, 38, donned a pretty black lace minidress as she hit up a club with Austrian social media sensation Alekssupernova. Ready to rock: Paris Hilton was enjoying a whirlwind trip to Vienna on Wednesday, where she was seen partying with a group of social media influencers Paris was her usual glamorous self in the skimpy Gothic number, showcasing her long legs thanks to the short hemline and adding some extra height with a pair of lace-up heels. She added a matching black choker to her look and wore her hair pinned back in a half-up style. The socialite and her new pal appeared to be getting along famously, sharing a number of selfies as they partied the night away together. The DJ duo were seen tucking into a gourmet meal of 'golden chicken' as they gossiped over dinner with a group of friends. That's hot! The hotel heiress, 38, donned a pretty black lace minidress as she hit up a club with Austrian influencer Alekssupernova Putting her best foot forward: Paris was her usual glamorous self in the skimpy Gothic number, showcasing her long legs thanks to the short hemline and adding some extra height with a pair of lace-up heels Layering up: Paris' new pal was spotted carrying her faux fur lined cape on their night out They also enjoyed a shopping spree together and snacked on some sweet treats decorated with Paris' famous catchphrase, 'That's hot!'. Sharing a selfie of the duo preparing to let loose, Alekssupernova wrote: 'Cause we looosing it @parishilton'. It has been 13 years since she graced the charts with her debut track Stars Are Blind and Paris is determined to come back with a bang. She has roped in her former BFF/sometime frenemy Kim Kardashian, who used to work as her assistant before finding fame, to appear in her new music video for comeback song, Best Friend's A**. Selfie time! The socialite and her new pal appeared to be getting along famously, sharing a number of selfies as they partied the night away together Snap happy: The DJ duo were seen gossiping over dinner with a group of friends Delicious: Paris dined on a gourmet meal of 'golden chicken' (left) after enjoying a sweet treat with her famous catchphrase, 'That's Hot!', written on it (right) Letting loose: The duo appear to have been working on a special project together VIP life: The group then moved on to a club, where they cut loose around the DJ decks Paris revealed the KUWTK star was making a cameo in the video on her Instagram, writing: '#SecretProject with @KimKardashian. I cant stop looking at my #BestFriendsAss.' She said she has recorded the track with brothers Dimitri Vegas and Like Mike. Paris and Kim have a famously tumultuous friendship, but according to the hotel heiress, everything is currently fine between herself and Kim. Late last year, during an appearance on Australia's Today show, she claimed to have spoken to Kim just 'a couple of weeks ago'. 'Everything's great. We've known each other since we were little girls. I love her and I am so proud of her, she's such an amazing businesswoman,' she said. The stomach-churning combination of fish, eggs and energetic dancing do not usually mix on a hangover, but Holly Willoughby had to contend with all of the above during Thursdays edition of This Morning. The presenter was feeling her way through the two-hour magazine show after spending the previous night enthusiastically downing ten margaritas at a wrap party thrown on behalf of Celebrity Juice. And she appeared to be regretting her exuberant actions during This Mornings obligatory cooking segment after joining co-host Phillip Schofield and resident chef Phil Vickery in the studio kitchen. Pass the bucket: Holly Willoughby presented Thursday's edition of This Morning on a hangover after downing ten margaritas at a wrap party for Celebrity Juice this previous night With pungent fish based Kedgeree at the top of the menu, a reluctant Holly, 38, admitted the overwhelming smell of Vickery's key ingredient was making her feel sick. We had the Celebrity Juice wrap party last night, she explained. And the smell of haddock in this studio is not helpful. Viewed as a light spring lunch, the dish brought back to England by British colonials returning from India also includes curry powder, rice, parsley and plenty of poached egg. Reluctant: She appeared to be regretting her exuberant actions during This Mornings obligatory cooking segment after joining co-host Phillip Schofield in the studio kitchen Please no: With pungent fish based dish Kedgeree at the top of the menu, a reluctant Holly, 38, admitted the overwhelming aroma of Vickery's ingredients was making her feel sick Opening up: We had the Celebrity Juice wrap party last night, she explained. The smell of haddock in this studio is not helpful' Tasty: Viewed as a light spring lunch, the dish brought back to England by British colonials returning from India also includes curry powder, rice, parsley and plenty of poached egg But Holly's admission that she was happy to eat egg in her current state prompted a worried Phil to step in. 'What's the one thing I dont like? I dont like the white of an egg!' he whined, gesturing at the beleaguered chef. 'He's making Kedgeree. Ive walked over there and he went "Dont look in there, dont look in there, dont look in there" theres great lumps of hard boiled egg!' No chance: But Holly's admission that she was happy to eat eggs in her current state prompted a worried Phil to step in Not happy: Their general indifference to culinary classic Kedgeree didn't go down well with a miffed Vickery, who walked off set in mock outrage ahead of the segment He's off: 'Right, so Phil isn't going to eat eggs, and you're not going to eat fish?' he barked. 'I've had enough of this' Their general indifference to the culinary classic didn't go down well with a miffed Vickery, who promptly walked off set in mock outrage ahead of the segment. However he was soon back to prepare the divisive dish, with Holly atoning for her previous admission by insisting she usually enjoys fish, telling him: 'I love smoked haddock. Its just the smell of it that's quite strong.' But it was the cause of her hangover that interested Phil, who urged his co-host to explain herself for the benefit of their viewers - much to his amusement. 'I was contractually obliged to drink ten margaritas,' she shrugged as the segment came to an end. Fun: The moment was quickly followed by an encounter with childhood favourites The Teletubbies, on to promote their new big band show at Alton Towers Here we go: With spirits high, the presenter was encouraged to perform their trademark dance around the studio chairs The moment followed a headache inducing encounter with childhood favourites The Teletubbies, who were on to promote their new big band show at Alton Towers. With spirits high, the presenter was encouraged to perform their trademark dance around the studio chairs. But while the impromptu routine had an adverse affect on her hangover, she later admitted she was delighted to be joined by the fictional characters. Sharing a shot of herself with the Teletubbies on Instagram shortly afterwards, she wrote: 'Best selfie ever!' This Morning returns at 10:30am on Friday May 10, on ITV1. Theyve recently made a triumphant return to TOWIE after taking some time out to focus on their health, wellness and their relationship. And with their relationship stronger than ever, Yazmin Oukhellou, 26, has exclusively revealed shes been dropping major hints everyday for beau James Lock, 32, to pop the question. The marriage revelations come as the couple showed off their toned physiques as they enjoyed a gruelling workout session at their first Wellness Retreat in Marrakesh, Morocco. Big plans: Yazmin Oukhellou, 26, has revealed shes been dropping major hints everyday for beau James Lock, 32, to pop the question Days before displaying their fitness prowess at the retreat, the brunette beauty opened up about her wedding plans to her partner, revealing theyve already shopped for engagement rings. Speaking exclusively to MailOnline, Norvell Tanning ambassador Yazmin said: I just hope he puts a ring on my finger. Im hinting every day! She added that despite the couple having hit the jewellery shops so that James knows what style I like', Yazmin stated that shes really not that bothered about the ring. I just want to be engaged. He can give me a Haribo ring! The star also shared that she was left disappointed during the duos recent Dubai getaway after she was convinced James was going to propose, after he planned a romantic private dinner on the beach. Zen: The marriage revelations come as the couple showed off their toned physiques as they enjoyed a gruelling workout session at their first Wellness Retreat in Marrakesh, Morocco I think hes trying to throw me off the scent! exclaimed the reality star. She also shared that she has a whopping five wedding dresses in mind as she steps up her plans for her big day. Meanwhile, at their North African retreat, the happy couple looked chilled out and happy as they joined a group of fellow fitness fanatics in throwing themselves wholeheartedly into the exercises, while Yazmin displayed her sizzling figure in scanty workout gear. Yazmin looked incredible in her stunning ensemble as she stretched out and displayed her lithe physique in the process. Eyes on the prize: Yazmin stated that shes really not that bothered about the ring. I just want to be engaged. He can give me a Haribo ring! While practicing a series of expert yoga moves, she made sure she was showing off her frame for her beau and fellow guests to see. The stars skin was glowing after applying a generous layer of Norvell tan, which the Yazmin says makes her feel more confident' after suffering with bad spots. Last month, Yazmin was seen back on-set for the first time since she was initially part of the mass cull faced by the cast. Yazmin confirmed she would be heading back to TOWIE after she took a break from the show, joking that she and James Lock were back to 'save the show.' Wow! Yazmin looked incredible in her stunning ensemble as she stretched out and displayed her lithe physique in the process Punch it out: He was working hard as he punched the bag As the pair made a surprise appearance at the show's series launch party, James joked that they were 'back to save The Only Way Is Essex.' Rumours previously circulated that they had been axed from the show, however they later hit back at the claims, with a source telling OK! Online : 'The claims James and Yaz have been axed from the show are complete rubbish. 'They are still fully committed to TOWIE, but will be on the show less to focus on their other businesses and their personal wellbeing. TOWIE bosses would be mad to drop the most talked about couple from the show.' All the revellers! James could not stop grinning in the midst of their retreat Stretch it out: While practicing a series of expert yoga moves, she made sure she was showing off her frame for her beau and fellow guests to see Legs eleven: Yazmin had no problems with the moves as she showed off her lean, lithe frame Working on it: The star had previously pulled out of filming to jet off for a mental health retreat, after it was revealed she was struggling with depression James and Yazmin's - whose personal woes took up much of the screen time during the last season of TOWIE - chose not to comment on the reports they'd be culled, but did prove they wouldn't be starring on the show as Yazmin revealed they would be spending at least six months in the retreat in Morocco. The star had previously pulled out of filming to jet off for a mental health retreat, after it was revealed she was struggling with depression. Writing about her new venture on Instagram, Yazmin wrote: 'It's going to be a good year feeling the best I've ever felt in a long time. Im excited to help you all along your journeys whether it be fitness, mindset or overall positivity and wellbeing. [sic]' Yazmin penned: 'Are you a couple going through a rough patch and need some guidance? Do you suffer from anxiety/ depression? Do you just need some life coaching to help with being positive, successful and being the best version of you? 'If you have answered YES to any of these then let us help you @wellnessretreatmarrakech.' Namaste: She was looking relaxed and chilled during their stint at the spa He's got it too: James was also throwing himself into the yoga session with gusto Her life was turned upside down when she was fired from the reality show that made her famous. And Jenelle Evans may have a difficult time making a name for herself on Marriage Boot Camp as TMZ reported that her husband David Eason must be 'evaluated by a psychologist' before the couple signs a contract. Eason could be a 'safety risk to Jenelle, the other cast members and the crew,' and producers will not approve the couple unless he passes the test. Oh no! Jenelle Evans may have a difficult time making a name for herself on Marriage Boot Camp as TMZ reported that her husband David Eason must be 'evaluated by a psychologist' before the couple signs a contract; seen on Instagram In addition to killing their family dog, producers are reportedly worried about David's affinity for weapons. Jenelle s is reportedly 'focusing on her family' now that MTV has parted ways with the reality star and her large brood after following her for eight years, according to People. The 27-year-old was 'very grateful' for the opportunity to star on Teen Mom 2 (a spin-off from the network's 16 and Pregnant), a representative said in a statement. Tough: Jenelle Evans is reportedly 'focusing on her family' now that MTV has parted ways with the reality star and her large brood after following her for eight years, according to People; seen in February 'Jenelle is focusing on her family and moving forward,' Evans' management and representative team said. 'She is very grateful and appreciative of the opportunity MTV have given her and her family for the last 10 years. It is sad to part ways in this matter but this isn't the end of Jenelle Evans or her family.' Evans was released from her contract with MTV on Tuesday after her husband murdered their pet bulldog Nugget when the puppy nipped at their daughter Ensley, two, which he had been videotaping from the other side of the room. The reality star and husband David Eason have been married since 2017. New start: The 27-year-old was 'very grateful' for the opportunity to star on Teen Mom 2 (a spin-off from the network's 16 and Pregnant); seen in February Gross: Jenelle was released from her contract with MTV on Tuesday after her husband murdered their pet bulldog when the puppy nipped at their daughter Ensley, two, which he had been videotaping from the other side of the room; seen in 2015 Her time on Teen Mom 2 came to an end thanks to the actions of her husband, which also affected castmember Briana DeJesus who was reportedly turned away from 'two restaurants' in Florida because owners were 'so upset over the dog killing', according to TMZ. MTV announced on Tuesday that Evans would not appear on any upcoming seasons, according to Us Weekly. 'MTV ended its relationship with David Eason over a year ago in February 2018 and has not filmed any new episodes of Teen Mom 2 with him since,' an MTV spokesperson said. 'Additionally, we have stopped filming with Jenelle Eason as of April 6, 2019 and have no plans to cover her story in the upcoming season.' The end: MTV announced on Tuesday that Jenelle, shown in April 2016 with David in Burbank, California, would not appear on any upcoming seasons, according to Us Weekly It was earlier reported by TMZ that Evans and Eason were going to appear on Marriage Boot Camp, but she later denied it as a rumor and We TV also refuted it. 'WE tv has no plans to cast Jenelle Evans on Marriage Boot Camp,' the network said Wednesday in a statement. MTV originally kicked Eason off the show following a series of homophobic tweets and Evans was subsequently featured less often due to the difficulties of shooting around her husband. Last straw: The network originally kicked Eason off the show following a series of homophobic tweets The animal cruelty incident led to an advertiser exodus, though it's not clear if the companies will be returning to the series now that Jenelle is out of the picture. Brands including Chipotle, Dove Chocolates, TWIX, Greenies pet treats and Persil ProClean have all withdrawn from the program. Evans and Eason share a two-year-old daughter Ensley, and she also shares nine-year-old Jace with Andrew Lewis and four-year-old Kaiser with Nathan Griffin. Rage outburst? Eason admitted Wednesday to murdering the dog, shown with him in August 2018 on Instagram, claiming that it bit Ensley It was Griffin who revealed Eason's alleged animal cruelty. After hearing that her husband had shot their dog, he requested a wellness check on his son, believing that he had been in the house at the time of the shooting, according to TMZ. He shared a video on social media of the small dog being baited to nip the girl's face. Eason took to his HickTownKing Instagram page and posted the clip showing Nugget on the couch with his daughter Ensley who tries to go in for a kiss. Photos: He also shared a photo of a tearful toddler after the incident with a slight red welt on her cheek, the skin having not been broken by the dogs teeth Instead of intervening between the animal, who is clearly uncomfortable as it cowers and pulls away from the little girl, Eason sits across the room and films the dog nip back at the girls face, causing her to cry. He also shared a photo of a tearful toddler after the incident with a slight red welt on her cheek, the skin having not been broken by the dogs teeth. 'I don't give a d*mn what animal bites my baby on the face. Whether it be your dog or mine, a dog is a dog and I don't put up with that s*** at all. I'm all about protecting my family, it is my life's mission. Some people are worth killing or dying for and my family means that much to me,' he wrote. 'You can hate me all you want but this isn't the first time the dog bit Ensley aggressively. The only person that can judge whether or not an animal is a danger to MY CHILD is ME.' Not backing down: 'I don't give a damn what animal bites my baby on the face. Whether it be your dog or mine, a dog is a dog and I don't put up with that s*** at all' According to TMZ, Janelle's friends and family members have called Child Protective Services to have her husband removed from the house. The friends and family are reportedly worried about the three children still living in the home, and there's also concern surrounding Jenelle's pitbull, Jax. Eason has reportedly shot the animal prior with a bb gun, and they worry he may lash out further. So far, law enforcement members have been hesitant to enter Jenelle and David's property due to multiple no trespassing signs and the presence of the pitbull. Concern: In addition to killing the little French Bulldog, Eason has reportedly shot Jenelle's pitbull Jax prior with a bb gun In North Carolina, killing a dog is a Class H Felony under the Animal-Cruelty statute, but officials told TMZ on Wednesday that they will only go after David if Jenelle reports him, something she has so far refused to do. David posted multiple photos of his extensive gun collection, including a screed from December when he criticized President Donald Trump for banning bump stocks, a modification to semi-automatic rifles allowing them to fire faster, mimicking fully automatic weapons. He also mentioned in the post that the Secret Service had visited him due to his seemingly threatening statements. Hesitant: Police have been hesitant to approach Eason's home due to the family pitbull, his multiple no trespassing signs, and his well-advertised collection of fire arms The horrifying dog murder came six months after Jenelle accused her husband of breaking her collarbone while violently 'pinning her down on the ground.' 'He got violent because he's been drinking,' Evans sobbed to the 911 operator in October. 'I'm recovering from a surgery on Monday. I can't breathe. I have four kids in the house with me right now. They're all sleeping. I don't know what to do. He left the house. I don't know what to do right now.' Jenelle later revealed to E! News that the incident was a 'drunk and dramatic misunderstanding' after David tried to put a stop to a televised pumpkin patch visit with his kids. He plays Lucifer Morningstar in cult supernatural drama, Lucifer - and Tom Ellis strips off completely NAKED in newly released scenes. The actor, 40, has played the role since 2015 but viewers have never seen him like this before. The British heartthrob shows off his impressive physique in season four, episode six, which is titled Orgy Pants To Work. The devil in disguise: Tom Ellis showed off his ripped physique as he went NAKED in a new episode of Lucifer... a day after fourth season of supernatural drama was revived by Netflix Getting to the bottom of it: In this episode, Lucifer and LAPD forensic scientist Ella Lopez Aimee Garcia search for a connection between a murdered auditor and a nudist colony The show centres around Lucifer, who has decided he's had enough of being the dutiful servant in Hell and decides to spend some time on Earth to better understand humanity. He settles in Los Angeles - the City of Angels. In this episode, Lucifer and LAPD forensic scientist Ella Lopez Aimee Garcia search for a connection between a murdered auditor and a nudist colony. Tom can be seen searching for answers while carefully placed bowls of fruit, including one very upright piece of fruit protects his modesty. Bottoms up! The show centres around Lucifer, who has decided he's had enough of being the dutiful servant in Hell and decides to spend some time on Earth to better understand humanity Nice jugs! Lucifer was cancelled by Fox in the USA after three series but later picked up by Netflix and the fourth season was released in its entirety on Wednesday The cheeky scene also sees a flash of Tom's bare bottom as he tries to get to the bottom of the murder. Lucifer was cancelled by Fox in the USA after three series but later picked up by Netflix and the fourth season was released in its entirety on Wednesday. There are ten episodes in season four, a stark contrast to the 26 episodes in the third season. He's happy about it: There are ten episodes in season four, a stark contrast to the 26 episodes in the third season. And fans of the show are already hoping and speculating that there will be a fifth season. Tom told Collider that he was convinced, for a short while at least, that the show would never return after it was cancelled, for a short time. He said on Wednesday: 'For about 36 hours, I was convinced that would be it. Then, I had a call. 'Basically, the moment that it was announced on social media that the show was cancelled, was the moment I started to feel better about everything. Because, within an hour of that announcement, my phone had just gone absolutely crazy.' Who made those bubbles? Tom told Collider that he was convinced, for a short while at least, that the show would never return after it was cancelled, for a short time Indya Moore revealed that as a teenager they were sex trafficked while attempting to obtain hormone replacement therapy. The transgender 24-year-old, who identifies as non-binary, meaning they don't define themselves exclusively as masculine or feminine and prefers they/them pronouns, spoke candidly about the experience in an interview for ELLE's June issue. Explaining how difficult it was to comprehend their situation, the Pose star told the publication on Wednesday: 'I didn't understand what sex trafficking was at the time. The language I knew was that they were, basically, my pimps. I was just a kid.' Candid: Pose's Indya Moore revealed their sex trafficking ordeal as a teen as the non-binary star becomes first transgender person to grace the cover of ELLE on Wednesday Indya rose to fame as Angel Evangelista in the hit FX television series Pose, which is based on the ball culture of New York City in the 1980s. As ELLE's first transgender cover star, Indya spoke about how they felt when they were cast in the leading role, and gushed that they 'just knew [their] life was going to change' when they got the part Discussing the importance of the show, and the impact they could have, they continued: 'I knew I had a chance to teach the world something that would help more people to be safe.' Struggle: Explaining how difficult it was to comprehend, Indya said: 'I didn't understand what sex trafficking was at the time. The language I knew was that they were, basically, my pimps' Hopes: Speaking about how they felt when they were cast in the leading role in Pose, Indya gushed that they 'just knew [their] life was going to change' Assisting others: Discussing the importance of the show, and its impact, they continued: 'I knew I had a chance to teach the world something that would help more people to be safe' The model went on to discuss their family, and how their parents 'didn't understand' when they began to display feminine behaviours as a child. Indya said: 'Because I was assigned male at birth, they expected me to be masculine or to perform the way they thought young boys should perform. And I did not. 'They didn't understand. They had never experienced what it was like to have a family member who was genderqueer.' Struggle: The model went on to discuss their family, and how their parents 'didn't understand' when they began to display feminine behaviours as a child Breaking boundaries: Indya said: 'Because I was assigned male at birth, they expected me to be masculine or to perform the way they thought young boys should perform. And I did not' Closed minds: Indya continued, 'They didn't understand. They had never experienced what it was like to have a family member who was genderqueer' At the age of 14, Indya left their parents' home due to what Moore describes as their parents' transphobia, and entered into foster care. Indya moved around frequently during this time, eventually living in all five boroughs of New York City. After being frequently bullied, they dropped out of high school during their sophomore year, and began working as a model at the age of 15, but eventually earned their General Equivalency Diploma (GED). Hit show: Indya rose to fame as Angel Evangelista in the hit FX television series Pose, which is based on the ball culture of New York City in the 1980s In an L'officiel interview with Pose co-star, Mj Rodriguez, Indya discussed how, despite identifying as non-binary, being seen as female means they are still subjected to the same 'surveillance and scrutiny' as all women, and to a desire to use fashion to take back that power. Out soon: The June issue of ELLE hits newsstands May 21 They said: 'I feel like that about fashion. I feel like that about us having the autonomy to express ourselves. 'I'm non-binary but I don't really talk about it that much. I don't feel like people really are there yet for understanding it, which I don't mind, but I also acknowledge the way people see me as a woman. 'And because I'm seen as a woman, a cis woman or binary presenting, people are going to hold me up to those same standards that women are held up to. ' The June issue of ELLE hits newsstands May 21. Lydia Bright displayed her incredible figure in a black bikini on Wednesday, as she took to Instagram to post a throwback snap from her recent Bali break. The former TOWIE star, 28, enjoyed a spot of meditation among a pool of water in the snap, as she joked to fans about trying to distract herself from a yoga class back in the UK. Last month Lydia returned from a relaxing trip to Bali which saw her parade her incredible figure in a slew of Instagram snaps. Jaw-dropping: Lydia Bright displayed her incredible figure in a skimpy black bikini on Wednesday, as she took to Instagram to post a throwback snap from her recent Bali break In the snap, Lydia shared a glimpse of her toned abs as she perfectly posed among the pool of water. She wrote in the caption: 'After a crazy busy couple of days filming and recording. Im off to unwind in a yoga class. 'Going to close my eyes and imagine Im back doing it in sunny Bali instead of the David Lloyd.' Flawless: The former TOWIE star, 28, enjoyed a spot of meditation among a pool of water in the snap, as she lamented returning to the UK following her recent holiday (above) Lydia had been soaking up the sun on her trip to Bali last month alongside her equally glamorous mother Debbie Douglas. In one, the fitness fan sent wild as posed in a sexy lilac bikini, while another saw her sizzle in a zebra-printed swimsuit. Her outing came as Lydia also had a surprise reunion with ex-boyfriend James 'Arg' Argent last month, as they both appeared on Good Morning Britain. Wow! Lydia posted a slew of different snaps from her recent break, including a skimpy lilac two-piece which perfectly displayed her washboard abs Sensational: The Essex beauty also sizzled in a plunging zebra printed swimsuit, as she relaxed in the beautiful sunshine Following their sweet reunion, James, who cheated on Lydia on a number of occasions, revealed he had broken up with his girlfriend Gemma Collins, before getting back together, splitting again and recently reuniting. After years of tension, it seems any upset has dissipated as they were seen in the sweet video, in which Lydia revealed James had blocked her on social media. As they giggled in the video, James looked on affectionately and teased Lydia by claiming she had not bothered to watch his segment. Surprise! Her outing came as Lydia also had a surprise reunion with ex-boyfriend James 'Arg' Argent last month, as they both appeared on Good Morning Britain Madame Tussauds is known for their uncanny celebrity waxworks. And when Kris Jenner posed with her brand new likeness at the New York location, it was next to impossible to tell which of them was the flesh-and-blood original. Kris, 63, matched outfits with her wax figure as she and her beau Corey Gamble, 38, posed with it alongside a replica of her eldest daughter Kourtney Kardashian. 'How amazing is this!?': Kris Jenner and her beau Corey Gamble posed Thursday with waxworks of her and her daughter Kourtney Kardashian at Madame Tussauds in New York Expert craftsmanship: It was next to impossible to tell which Kris was the museum piece and which was the flesh-and-blood original The real Kris and the waxwork were both dressed in a black sequined blouse and blazer with black slacks and matching heels. Meanwhile, the Kourtney figurine was decked out in a glittering black trouser suit with a neckline down to her midriff to show off her necklaces. This outfit mirrored the Christian Siriano ensemble she wore to the Brooklyn Museum for the CFDA Fashion Awards last June. 'How amazing is this!? Our new wax figures at @nycwax #madametussaudsnewyork, opening Tuesday!' wrote Kris in her caption. Glam: The Kourtney figurine was decked out in a glittering black trouser suit with a neckline down to her midriff to show off her necklaces Rounding it off: as the last of the Kardashian-Jenner siblings to get her waxwork done, following on the heels of her little sister Khloe Kardashian Double take: Kourtney's wax work outfit (left) mirrored the Christian Siriano ensemble she wore to the Brooklyn Museum for the CFDA Fashion Awards in June of last year (right) 'Me, Kourtney, Kim, Kylie, Khloe and Kendall will all have our wax figures together for the first time. #DoubleTrouble #MadameTussauds @kourtneykardash @coreygamble,' dished the twice-divorced 'momager.' Noting on her Insta Stories that she thought the wax Kourtney would 'start talking,' she gushed that it was 'an honor' to be sent up by Madame Tussauds. Kourtney posted Insta Stories footage this past November of herself getting her measurements taken for her Madame Tussauds figurine. She was the last of the Kardashian-Jenner siblings to get her waxwork done, following on the heels of her little sister Khloe Kardashian. Unmistakable: Khloe's likeness was unveiled at the Madame Tussauds in Las Vegas last June, wearing an outfit the real woman had worn in October 2016 Khloe's likeness was unveiled at the Madame Tussauds in Las Vegas last June, wearing an outfit the real woman had worn in October 2016. Kris and three of her daughters - Kim Kardashian, Kylie Jenner and Kendall Jenner - spent this Monday at the camp-themed Met Gala in New York. Wearing a platinum bob wig and a Tommy Hilfiger outfit that featured an elaborate tulle robe over a navy jumpsuit, Kris arrived on Corey's arm. She told E! News on the pink carpet that Kylie had suggested the blonde hairdo and proudly referred to herself as an 'obnoxious stage mom.' How times have changed: Kim Kardashian is seen posing up with her own wax figure at the New York City Madame Tussauds back in 2010 All that sweet affection: Kendall Jenner cuddled up to her wax figurine at the Madame Tussauds in London in February 2016 during that city's Fashion Week Metallica's Kirk Hammett took a nasty tumble on Wednesday night, as the band were delivering a showstopping performance in Milan. The 56-year-old music legend crashed onto the stage after slipping on a wet guitar pedal, as the band performed outdoors at the Snai San Siro Hippodrome. Kirk later took to Twitter to reassure fans that he wasn't hurt following the fall, and joked it rained so heavily 'if felt like he was playing guitar in the shower.' Going down! Metallica's Kirk Hammett took a nasty tumble on Wednesday night, as the band were delivering a showstopping performance in Milan In the video, Kirk could be seen displaying his famous guitar skills as the crowd danced along to his epic Moths To Flame solo despite the torrential rain. But as he pushed his foot down on the pedal, it skidded and the star lost his balance and crashed down onto the stage. Kirk didn't seem to be hurt by the fall, as he immediately sprung back up and continued the triumphant performance. Amazing: The 56-year-old music legend crashed onto the stage as the band performed outdoors at the Snai San Siro Hippodrome in the pouring rain Rocking out: Kirk was delivering one of his usual epic guitar solos to Moths To Flame, and the crowd were dancing along despite the torrential conditions Keep going! The rock icon was ever showman as he delivered yet another stellar version of his solo in the Italian city Oops! But as Kirk stepped on the wet guitar pedal, it skidded and resulted in his dramatic fall onto the stage Oh no! The stage was completely soaked due to the torrential conditions, but Kirk managed to recover with ease The performer later took to Twitter to reassure fans that he was completely fine, and along with a post of the video he wrote: 'Ummm- I slipped on my wet wah pedal. It rained so much I felt like I was playing guitar in the shower. #MetInMilan @Metallica (sic).' Metallic have been travelling the globe on their WorldWired Tour, which kicked off in 2016 and is finally set to end in Auckland, New Zealand in November. But despite more than 30 years in music, Metallic are showing no signs of slowing down, as they spoke to Philadelphia's 93.3 WMMR radio last year. I'm OK! But after his fall, Kirk immediately sprung back up, and managed to finish the rest of the concert without a hitch Hilarious! He later took to Twitter to reassure fans he was fine, writing with the video: 'Ummm- I slipped on my wet wah pedal. It rained so much I felt like I was playing guitar in the shower' Superstars: Metallic have been travelling the globe on their WorldWired Tour, which kicked off in 2016 and is finally set to end in Auckland, New Zealand in November The band - completed by James Hetfield, Lars Ulrich, Robert Trujillo - said they have no plans to quit touring, and rather than getting ready to retire, have been feeling better than ever. Lars said: 'We hope we can get another 20, 25 years out of Metallica. I don't know what it's gonna look like, I don't know what it's gonna sound like, but that's in our heads.' 'We're not sitting there thinking retirement or this or that; we're sort of more the opposite. So I would say, for us, everything we do is kind of a long game. 'And back then, when you were 17, you only think of, like, the next five minutes. ''Where is the next beer? Wooh!'' So that's kind of different mentality nowadays.' Amazing: Despite 30 years in the music industry, the band recently insisted they have plans to quit touring or retire from music Sensational: Drummer Lars Ulrich told Philadelphia's 93.3 WMMR radio last year the band are feeling better than ever Chris Evans revealed he refused to let Will Smith rent his home while the actor was filming in Surrey. The presenter, 53, confessed he had turned down a Hollywood star he thought was the actor, 50, whilst speaking to Will's co-star Mena Massoud during his appearance on Virgin Radio Breakfast on Thursday. Explaining the story to the 27-year-old actor, Chris said: 'Somebody phoned us up about two years ago and said: "Do you want to rent your house out?," I said: "Not really, we are alright to be honest." Turned down: Chris Evans revealed on Thursday that he REFUSED to let Will Smith rent his house whilst the actor filmed Aladdin in Surrey 'But they said: "But don't you rent a house yourself. You might want to consider this," I said: "Why?" 'He said: "It's a good let, it's a good price." I said: "Who's it for?" They said: "We can't tell you that. He's making a big film around the corner." Asking Mena when they had filmed the live-action Disney remake, the actor admitted it was in July 2017 which Chris said matched perfectly with his phone conversation. Oops: Explaining the story Chris told Will's co-star Mena Massoud: 'Somebody phoned us up about two years ago and said: "Do you want to rent your house out?," I said: "Not really" Chris went on to ask if Mena had visited Will at his rented property while they were filming together, but the Jack Ryan star admitted he hadn't. Though Chris didn't know for sure which actor wanted to rent his home, it was then that he claimed: 'No, no, he didn't stay there in the end because I said no! In my mind it was definitely Will Smith they were talking about.' The live action film is a remake of Disney's 1992 animated film, which follows the story of streetwise Aladdin, who falls in love with Princess Jasmine (Naomi Scott). Not a coincidence: Asking Mena (R) when they filmed the live-action Disney remake, the actor admitted it was in July 2017 which Chris said matched perfectly with his phone conversation In February, Disney fans first got their first look at the screen star as the fast-talking, magic lamp-imprisoned Jinn made famous by the late, great Robin Williams. Also starring in the film are Marwan Kenzari as Jafar, Navid Negahban as the Sultan, Nasim Pedrad as Dalia and Billy Magnussen as Prince Anders. Disney's Aladdin hits UK cinemas on May 22, and US theaters on May 24. Her husband David Beckham was banned from driving for six months on Thursday, after being caught with his phone on his knee. And Victoria didn't look too happy with the verdict on Thursday, as she was pictured leaving The Mark hotel in New York, with a glum look on her face. Victoria was wearing an outfit from her own collection, choosing a checked shirt which was tucked into a black pleated skirt which had a grey waistband. Something up? Victoria Beckham looked stony-faced as she stepped out of The Mark hotel in New York hours after husband David was BANNED from driving for six months on Thursday She was wearing a pair of tight red peeptoe knee high boots, which added a pop of colour to her ensemble. But no matter how quirky her wardrobe appeared, there was no mistaking Victoria's expression on the day as she headed to a business meeting. David was caught with his phone on his knee while at the wheel of his 100k Bentley - despite claiming he needs his licence for the school run. The law: Her husband David Beckham was banned from driving for six months on Thursday, after being caught with his phone on his knee He was also ordered to pay a 750 fine after admitting using his phone while driving in November. Wearing a sharp grey suit and tie for his appearance at Bromley Magistrates Court , the former England captain was given six points on his driving licence and banned. He was banned from the roads by District Judge Catherine Moore, who added six points to his licence which already had six points on it from two previous speeding offences. Making her own style rules: Victoria was wearing an outfit from her own collection, choosing a checked shirt which was tucked into a black pleated skirt which had a grey waistband Putting her best foot forward: She was wearing a pair of tight red peeptoe knee high boots, which added a pop of colour to her ensemble Beckham showed no reaction as the sentenced was passed down. Matthew Spratt, prosecuting solicitor, said: 'There are already six points for two speeding matters. 'On 21 November last year at 1pm the defendant was seen in a Bentley in slow moving traffic. He was seen by a member of the public looking at his lap.' Nothing to say: Victoria has not said anything on the matter Statement: Victoria turned heads in her typically stylish ensemble as she left the hotel He said the member of the public spotted a mobile phone on his knee. He took photographs of Mr Beckham. Defence solicitor Gerrard Tyrrell said: 'Mr Beckham has no recollection of the day in question or this particular incident. He has seen these photographs. 'It looks like it was stationary traffic. That's no excuse. As he can not remember he pleaded guilty which he has done. 'Mr Beckham likes driving. He drives a lot. He takes his children to school each day when he can and he picks them up when he can.' Style Queen: Victoria added a pop of colour with a mustard clutch and red boots as she stepped out in New York She is set to welcome her second child with husband Charlie Thomson in the coming weeks. And Alex Jones has detailed her struggles about living far away from her parents Mary and Alun ahead of the birth of her new arrival. During an interview on podcast Guide Dogs: By My Side, the One Show presenter, 42, who shares two-year-old son Teddy with her insurance broker partner, shared the differences in family support between her first and second pregnancy. Family woes: Alex Jones has detailed her struggles about living far away from her parents Mary and Alun ahead of the birth of her second child Speaking to Libby Clegg MBE, 29, the TV host shared: 'Mum was amazing at the beginning with Teddy. 'She was there for the first three weeks and thank goodness for her because I don't know how we would've done it, actually.' The BBC star then asked sprinter Libby if she and her partner Dan Powell had similar family support, to which the sportswoman replied: 'We don't have any family support at the mo' because we live so far away from them.' Drawing parallels between her and Libby's long-distance family relationships, Alex echoed: 'We have the same problem. One set is in New Zealand, Auckland, and one set is in Wales, it's not on the doorstep type of stuff.' Candid: During an interview on podcast Guide Dogs: By My Side, the One Show presenter, 42, shared the differences in family support between her first and second pregnancy Doting mother: The TV host shares two-year-old son Teddy with insurance broker husband Charlie Thomson She recently admitted she's 'terrified' about becoming a mum of two during an earlier appearance on the podcast. Speaking about her second child's impending arrival, she said: 'Everybody has nerves about being a mum and being a parent. 'Pregnancy for any woman is a period of excitement, also slightly terrifying as you don't know what to expect. Even with your second it's like: "how am I going to do two?" 'Mum was amazing at the beginning, when we first had Teddy, for the first three weeks thankfully. I don't know how we would have done it without her.' Oh, baby! Last month, the Welsh beauty said an emotional goodbye to the One Show as she filmed her final scenes with co-host Shane Richie before heading on maternity leave Cover: It was revealed also that Strictly champ Stacey Dooley will cover for Alex on the chat show programme Last month, the Welsh beauty said an emotional goodbye to the One Show as she filmed her final scenes with co-host Shane Richie before heading on maternity leave. It was revealed also that Strictly champ Stacey Dooley will cover for Alex on the chat show programme. The 32-year-old journalist will join fellow guest hosts, Emma Willis and Mel Giedroyc, as well as Angellica Bell, Angela Scanlon and Michelle Ackerley. Matt Baker will continue to be covered by guest hosts on Fridays with the likes of Shane Richie, Joe Lycett, Rylan, Patrick Kielty, Amol Rajan and Ore Oduba. She was among a host of stars who turned out for the premiere of Aladdin. And Megan McKenna cut a glamorous figure as she arrived at the Odeon Luxe Leicester Square for the film's European Gala on Thursday. It marked the first red carpet appearance for the TOWIE star, 26, since the death of her ex boyfriend and Love Island star Mike Thalassitis in March. Appearance: Megan McKenna cut a glamorous figure as she arrived at the Odeon Luxe Leicester Square for the film's European Gala on Thursday Megan donned a baby blue dress for the occasion which came complete with a v-neckline and a green and pink floral design. The TV star complimented her outfit, which also featured a pleated finish, with a golden necklace. Mike was found in woodland near his Edmonton home on Saturday March 16. Megan released a statement on Twitter two days after the shock news to offer her condolences to his family. Event: It marked the first red carpet appearance for the TOWIE star, 26, since the death of her ex boyfriend and Love Island star Mike Thalassitis in March She wrote: 'Sorry I haven't been on social media but I'm in complete shock and trying to come to terms with this. 'I can't believe I'm even writing this post. My thoughts and prayers are with Mike's family. Rest in peace Mike x' Mike and Megan dated on and off throughout 2018, but ended their relationship for good in August. Megan donned a baby blue dress for the occasion which came complete with a v-neckline and a green and pink flora design Style: The TV star complimented her outfit, which also featured a pleated finish, with a golden necklace Look: Megan wore her blonde locks in loose waves for the star-studded premiere The High Heeled Shoes hitmaker previously defended the reality star, insisting that he was not a 'nasty' person and there was no other explanation for their break-up other than being at 'different points in their lives.' Mike and Megan dated for seven months on and off but ultimately confirmed their separation in August 2018. They were first romantically linked in February 2018 when they jetted off to spend Valentine's Day together in Amsterdam. Condolences: Megan released a statement on Twitter two days after the shock news of Mike's passing to offer her condolences to his family Past: Mike and Megan dated for seven months on and off but ultimately confirmed their separation in August 2018 Since Mike's death, Love Island bosses have now confirmed that they have been working on overhauling their reality show aftercare policy after former star Sophie Gradon was also found dead, aged 32, in June last year. In a lengthy statement released just days after Mike's death, producers confirmed they would change policies to ensure that all Islanders are offered support before, during and after their time on the show, as well as social media and finance management training. In the message it also revealed that they would be changing the outlying policy towards mental care of all contestants, after many former stars hit out at producers for the lack of aftercare. If you have been affected by this story, call The Samaritans at any time, from any phone for FREE, on 116 123. Advertisement It's the second of 2019's live-action remakes from Disney - in a year that sees Dumbo, The Lion King, Lady And The Tramp and Aladdin brought to life. And on Thursday night, Aladdin premiered in London's Leicester Square, with stars Will Smith, Naomi Scott and Mena Massoud all taking to the 'magic carpet' for the movie's European debut at the Odeon Luxe. Massoud takes on the titular role of the poverty-stricken 'street rat' who happens upon a magic lamp, conjures up a genie [Smith] and wins the heart of Princess Jasmine [Scott]. Guy Ritchie was also in attendance, having directed the film. Magic carpet ride: Will Smith larks around on the carpet as he's joined by glamorous 'Princess Jasmine' Naomi Scott and hunky 'Aladdin' Mena Massoud as they attend the European Premiere for Disney's live-action Aladdin Smith looked delighted to be in London, posing for snaps and happily interacting with fans. The Independence Day hunk, 50, grinned as he rocked a gingham two-piece suit, in cream, beige, black and white. Underneath, he wore a V-neck mustard sweater and added shiny brown loafers to the ensemble. The notoriously-jovial star seemed to emulate his bouncy Genie persona as he laughed and joked around on the purple carpet. Speaking to MailOnline before entering the screening, Smith said of playing the role of Genie - made famous in the animated 1992 version by the late Robin Williams: 'You know thats what Robin Williams gave to the genie that was spectacular, and that was the thing that I was working really hard to capture but give it my flavour' Feisty: Scott plays the role of Princess Jasmine, who tries to defy her father's attempts to force her into an arranged marriage and instead falls for Aladdin Hero: Aladdin makes three wishes via the magic lamp - one of which involves transforming into a prince to win the heart of Jasmine A laugh a minute: The notoriously-jovial Smith seemed to emulate his bouncy Genie persona as he laughed and joked around on the purple carpet Speaking to MailOnline before entering the screening, Smith said of playing the role of Genie - made famous in the animated 1992 version by the late Robin Williams: 'You know thats what Robin Williams gave to the genie that was spectacular, and that was the thing that I was working really hard to capture but give it my flavour. 'The genie will say anything or do anything, theres a certain madness to the genie - that was the fun that Robin Williams created so I was trying to find what that meant, with a little more of a Fresh Prince flavour to it. 'I wanted to create something that was both nostalgic but also had a little bit new school sometimes. Looking fresh: The Independence Day hunk, 50, grinned as he rocked a gingham two-piece suit, in cream, beige, black and white Fan fave: Smith looked delighted to be in London, posing for snaps and happily interacting with fans Suave: Underneath, he wore a V-neck mustard sweater and added shiny brown loafers to the ensemble Regal: Scott, 26, posed in a pale blue shoulder-less gown. The dress featured intricate jewel detailing around the bust and on the front side of the garment, which featured a gathered front, before falling into a sheer, crisp floor-length skirt Sleek: She accentuated the regal ensemble with diamond and steel jewelry, sporting a silver manicure and matching eye-shadow Pastel perfection: Scott is married to Ipswich Town footballer Jordan Spence. She was joined by her sportsman husband for the event, who looked smart in a pale green suit. He added a casual edge to it with a black and white T-shirt underneath and trainers Wedded bliss: The pair have been married since 2014 'It was quite stressful and daunting, Robin Williams didnt leave much room to improve on the genie!' He went on: 'Guy Ritchie had a very specific tie on what he wanted the genie to look like, he kept saying 1970s body builder! 'He said he wanted him to look like one of those body builders whose upper body is really huge and the legs are really small because they missed leg day so that was the comedic take of how he wanted him to look.' British-born Scott, 26 - who is married to Ipswich Town footballer Jordan Spence - posed in a pale blue shoulder-less gown. Glowing: She kept her make-up neutral, with a bronze wash of concealer, a nude lip and smokey eyes Raven stunner: Scott - who is set to take on the role of one of Charlie's Angels in the forthcoming reboot of the action franchise - swept her sleek locks back behind her bare shoulders Star: Massoud, 27, cut a handsome appearance as he arrived for the purple carpet Smart: Massoud looked the part in a velvet burgundy and black patterned two-piece suit, over a plain black shirt The dress featured intricate jewel detailing around the bust and on the front side of the garment, which featured a gathered front, before falling into a sheer, crisp floor-length skirt. She accentuated the regal ensemble with diamond and steel jewelry, sporting a silver manicure and matching eye-shadow. She kept her make-up otherwise neutral, with a bronze wash of concealer, a nude lip and smokey eyes. The raven stunner - who is set to take on the role of one of Charlie's Angels in the forthcoming reboot of the action franchise - swept her sleek locks back behind her bare shoulders. Hunky: He added casual boots to the look and left his shirt untucked as he grinned across the magic carpet at the crowds Titular role: Massoud was born in Cairo, Egypt to Egyptian Coptic Christian parents. When he was young he immigrated to Canada. He grew up in Markham, Ontario I can show you the way: Massoud and Scott portray the lovers in the movie Pals: The pair happily posed for snaps and took selfies together as they entered the London venue Director: Guy Ritchie was also in attendance, having helmed the project She was joined by her sportsman husband for the event, who looked smart in a pastel green suit. He added a casual edge to it with a black and white T-shirt underneath and trainers. Massoud, 27, cut a handsome appearance as he looked the part in a velvet burgundy and black patterned two-piece suit, over a plain black shirt. He added casual boots to the look and left his shirt untucked as he grinned across the magic carpet at the crowds. Also in attendance was director Ritchie and his wife Jacqui Ainsley. Actor Marwan Kenzari also took to the purple carpet. He will portray villain Jafar, who enslaves Genie and attempts to seduce Jasmine. Arrival: Ritchie and his wife Jacqui Ainsley graced the purple carpet, looking suitably glam for the occasion Dolled up: The director and his wife scrubbed up well as they posed for snaps Sparkling: Ainsley wore a plunging sparkling floor-length gown, in green and gold, with flared short sleeves and a green accent clutch to match Villainous: Actor Marwan Kenzari also took to the purple carpet. He will portray villain Jafar, who enslaves Genie and attempts to seduce Jasmine. He was seen embracing Massoud as the cast gathered for a group photo Ainsley wore a plunging sparkling floor-length gown, in green and gold, with flared short sleeves and a green accent clutch to match. Kenzari matched the likes of Massoud and Spence, keeping it smart/casual in a plain shirt and a sporty khaki jacket. Aladdin has been co-written by John August and also stars Navid Negahban, Nasim Pedrad, and Billy Magnussen. Disney announced the project in the autumn of 2016, following the success of live-action versions of The Jungle Book, Beauty And The Beast, Cinderella and Alice In Wonderland and it's sequel Through The Looking Glass. Khaki chic: Kenzari matched the likes of Massoud and Spence, keeping it smart/casual in a plain shirt and a sporty khaki jacket Director and cast: The lead players for the Aladdin remake stood centre stage at the glitzy event Being the Genie: 'It was quite stressful and daunting, Robin Williams didnt leave much room to improve on the genie!' Smith added A whole new world: The lead stars of the evening commanded attention before the European Gala screening took place Loving it: The leading men basked in the glory of the event Smith went on: 'Guy Ritchie had a very specific tie on what he wanted the genie to look like, he kept saying 1970s body builder! He said he wanted him to look like one of those body builders whose upper body is really huge and the legs are really small because they missed leg day so that was the comedic take of how he wanted him to look' Centre stage: Edith Bowman interviewed producers Daniel Lin, Jonathan Eirich, composer Alan Menken, director Ritchie and the rest of the cast in front of the audience Smith was the first member of the cast to join, signing on to portray Genie in July 2017, and later that month Massoud and Scott were confirmed for the two lead roles. The movie was shot at Longcross Studios in Surrey, England, and in the Wadi Rum Desert in Jordan. Later this year, The Lion King will hit cinemas, as will Maleficent: Mistress of Evil [based on Sleeping Beauty] and Lady And The Tramp. Further live-action remakes in the works include Pinocchio, The Little Mermaid, Lilo & Stitch and The Hunchback Of Notre Dame, with Cruella [based on 101 Dalmations] and Mulan set for 2020 releases. Also at the event, Megan McKenna cut a glamorous figure as she arrived in a floaty ensemble. Fun cast: The cast and crew seemed to be in great spirits as they shared a laugh together before the screening began Floral: Megan McKenna cut a glamorous figure as she arrived at the Odeon Luxe in a floaty ensemble Ladies night: Also in attendance were the likes of [L-R] Montana Brown, Lilah Parsons, Clara Amfo and Katie Piper, all suitably dressed to the nines Night at the movies: Marvin and Rochelle Humes posed for snaps, Marvin looking dashing in all-black, with Rochelle rocking a caramel slicker, skinny jeans and strap heels Movie fans: [L-R] Marcel Somerville, Nadine Hermez, Stefan-Pierre Tomlin and Preeya Kalidas walked the purple carpet Making an appearance: YouTuber Louise Pentland also stepped out for the star-studded bash Marvin and Rochelle Humes posed for snaps, Marvin looking dashing in all-black, with Rochelle rocking a caramel slicker, skinny jeans and strap heels. Also in attendance were the likes of Montana Brown, Lilah Parsons, Clara Amfo and Katie Piper, all suitably dressed to the nines. As were Marcel Somerville, Nadine Hermez, Stefan-Pierre Tomlin and Preeya Kalidas who all walked the purple carpet. Aladdin is set for theatrical release on May 24. The night isn't over! Stunning couple Guy and Jacqui appeared in great spirits as they headed to the director's new Fitzrovia pub The Lore of the Land for an afterparty Good sport: Despite his lengthy promotional trail, Will still managed to beam with delight In good company: Mena joined the likes of comedian Kevin Hart (centre) and model Hana Cross (right) at the bash Giving Phoebe Waller-Bridge a role on the writing team of the latest Bond film was always going to stir things up. And the award-winning creator of TV series Fleabag has promised to build on the trend for female characters in the 007 movies to seem 'like real people'. The series has been criticised in the past for its portrayal of 'Bond girls', with accusations that the films objectify women. Phoebe Waller-Bridge (pictured at the 2019 Golden Globes) has joined the writing team for the new Bond film and vowed to make the Bond girls 'feel like real people' after joining the writing team for the as yet unnamed 25th film Miss Waller-Bridge, 33, who wrote and starred in the BBC drama Fleabag and wrote the script of the international hit thriller series Killing Eve, has now joined the writing team for the as yet unnamed 25th film. She told The Hollywood Reporter's podcast: 'It's really exciting. The film they've got is such an exciting story. It's been a joy to work on.' Asked whether she would use some of her signature feminist humour, Waller-Bridge said: 'Well, we'll see, we'll see what I can sneak in.' Miss Waller-Bridge said about writing Bond girls: 'It's mainly about making them feel like real people, you know? I think Daniel's films have had really fantastic Bond girls, so it's just keeping it up' (Pictured: Lea Seydoux, Ana de Armas, Daniel Craig, Naomie Harris and Lashana Lynch) The film's latest 'Bond girl' is Ana de Armas, 30 (pictured), who made her debut with the cast last month at late creator Ian Fleming's former home in Jamaica. She won worldwide recognition for her 2017 role in Blade Runner 2049 'But it's mainly about making them feel like real people, you know? Which they do in the previous films. I think Daniel's films have had really fantastic Bond girls, so it's just keeping it up.' The film's latest 'Bond girl' is Ana de Armas, who made her debut with the cast last month at late creator Ian Fleming's former home in Jamaica. She won worldwide recognition for her 2017 role in Blade Runner 2049. The Cuban-Spanish actress, 30, will be starring alongside Craig, Lea Seydoux, Naomie Harris, as well as a new line-up of Rami Malek, Dali Benssalah and Lashana Lynch in Bond 25, due for release in April next year. He's ruled the airwaves for four decades. And Howard Stern took some time away from the microphone and stepped out in style for an appearance on Good Morning America Thursday afternoon in New York. The 65-year-old author looked fantastic wearing an all-black ensemble to promote his latest book Howard Stern Comes Again where he revealed he thought he was 'going to die' following a cancer scare. King of all media: Howard Stern took some time away from the microphone and stepped out in style for an appearance on Good Morning America Thursday afternoon in New York Howard's classic look included a long black John Varvatos double-breasted jacket with brushed brass buttons. He kept with his monochromatic theme wearing a black shirt and matching slacks as he headed into the studio. Stern wrapped a scarf around his neck and wore a pair of his signature dark shades over his eyes. Stern questioned his own mortality and a potential empty throne after a cancer scare landed him in the hospital for a risky surgery in 2017, according to The Hollywood Reporter. Oh my! The 65-year-old author looked fantastic wearing an all-black ensemble to promote his latest book Howard Stern Comes Again where he revealed he thought he was 'going to die' following a cancer scare Icon: Howard's classic look included a long black John Varvatos double-breasted jacket with brushed brass buttons The massive Stern fan network was full of speculation when Howard missed a day on his show in May 2017, something he's rarely done before as he regularly boasts about his impeccable track record at work. While Howard made fun of his absence the following week and asked his audience why 'is it such a big deal that I took a f***ing day off', it turns out that listeners were right to assume something was wrong. Stern had spent the previous year carting back-and-forth to appointments to monitor a 'low white blood cell count' and when doctors discovered a growth that was '90 percent' cancerous, Howard was understandably distraught. 'And now all I'm thinking is, "I'm going to die,"' he told Lacey Rose during a sit-down. 'And I'm scared s***less.' Baba booey: He kept with his monochromatic theme wearing a black shirt and matching slacks as he headed into the studio Howard's health scare inspired his new book, which takes readers through a journey of his best and favorite interviews over the course of four decades in the ever-changing radio industry. He regularly credits years of therapy for his changing perspective, and questions what's next to come after his contract expires at the end of 2020. 'I'm at a place now where I am trying to figure out how to spend the rest of my life, however long that might be,' he said. 'It seems weird to me not to have this.' His third book (Private Parts was released in 1993 and Miss America followed two years after) is already crushing industry standards as 'the fastest seller of the year in terms of pre-orders' is set to be released through publisher Simon & Schuster on May 14. The Hustle (12A) Verdict: Don't be duped Rating: The trailer for The Hustle, about a pair of female con-artists played by Anne Hathaway and Rebel Wilson, has been running in cinemas for a few weeks now. Every time I've seen it, I've looked forward less and less to watching the film. Occasionally, trailers these days still do what they're meant to, and make you actually want to see the movie. But, more and more, they seem to fall into two other categories. There's the trailer that gives so much away that you think, why fork out on an outing to the cinema when the entire story has been so neatly digested for you? Then there's the category into which The Hustle falls, which makes you ask: if those are truly the best bits, the moments intended to entice us to our local multiplex, then what must the rest of the blessed film be like? The answer, in this case, is pure cinematic bilge. Actresses Rebel Wilson (left) and Anne Hathaway (right) have teamed up to star in comedy film, The Hustle Even if you happen to think that Wilson is the funniest comic actress in the world, and love the boorish, accident-prone, fat-girl persona that she peddles so relentlessly, you might feel duped out of your ticket money. My own feeling, ventured more than once before, is that a little Rebel goes a long way. But in The Hustle, which she also co-produced, there's a great deal of her, stretching her one-note act well beyond its natural tolerance point. Hathaway is her comic foil, the Little to her Large. Even the retro, Sixties-style, animated opening credits try to milk the physical differences between the pair. That's fair enough, not that Wilson and Hathaway will ever trouble Laurel and Hardy, Abbott and Costello or, indeed, even Syd and Eddie in the double-act rankings. We know from pictures such as The Intern and Ocean's 8, that Hathaway is a deft comedy performer, but she's not among the handful of stars with an ability to outshine the material they're given. The cut-glass British accent she affects for most of the film might be designed to give her character a veneer of class, but it doesn't, alas, do the same for the film. Like the infinitely superior Ocean's 8, The Hustle is a feminised reworking of a film with male protagonists, in this instance, the 1988 Michael Caine-Steve Martin vehicle Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, which was itself a remake of Bedtime Story (1964), starring Marlon Brando and David Niven. All those years ago, in Bedtime Story, Niven played an elegant English swindler plying his trade in the fictional Cote d'Azur resort of Beaumont-sur-Mer. That's Hathaway's role. She plays Jo (the name perhaps intended as a nod to Joanna Lumley, whose accent Hathaway has admitted she is trying to mimic), who has a lucrative con going in the Beaumont casino, using her beauty to prey on vain, gullible millionaires. Then, on a train, she encounters Penny (Wilson), a loud, uncouth Australian who scams men into funding the search for her sister, who has been abducted so she tells them and sold into sex slavery. The last thing Jo wants is for Penny to muscle in on her patch, so she does her best to stop her, but then realises it might be easier to train her up and work as a team. Jo duly tries to teach Penny how to force a tear to trickle down her cheek, the better to appear fragile and vulnerable. Penny gurns furiously in a vain attempt to find the elusive tear. 'Are you constipated?' asks Jo. This is what passes for comedy in The Hustle, which is scripted by Jac Schaeffer, and has none of the wit and sophistication of, let's say, Carry On Matron. Soon, however, Jo realises that she doesn't want Penny as an accomplice. 'There isn't room for both of us in Beaumont-sur-Mer,' she says, prompting those of us suffering in the audience to conclude that it's a shame there's room for either of them. Anyway, she proposes a 'con-off', a competition to see who can be the first to fleece a naive young tech billionaire (Alex Sharp) of $500,000. The loser must leave town. A series of less-than-hilarious set-pieces ensue, followed by a twist that almost nobody in the audience under the age of 11 will see coming. What is a surprise, though, is that the first-time director of this rubbish is the engaging British comedian Chris Addison, whose TV credits as a comic actor include the wonderfully scabrous political satire The Thick Of It. Surely he knows what's funny and what isn't? Still, if he's the man responsible for keeping the running-time down to 94 minutes, then he's at least done us one favour, despite a very worrying hint that a sequel might be on the cards. Detective Pikachu (PG) Verdict: Family fun Rating: Detective Pikachu is altogether more fun, however cynical it might seem to try to cash in on the Pokemon craze, now the first generation of addicts to the multi-media monster franchise are becoming parents themselves. Pikachu is a cute, wisecracking ball of yellow fur voiced by Ryan Reynolds, although nobody except an orphaned teenager called Tim (Justice Smith) can understand him. Together, in a lively pastiche of film noir, they investigate the apparent death of Tim's father in Ryme City, a metropolis where humans and Pokemon creatures live in harmony. Family-friendly film Detective Pikachu stars Justice Smith (left) and Kathryn Newton (right) with Ryan Reynolds voicing the titular Pokemon character A media baron played by Bill Nighy seems to have something to do with the mystery, and a pretty intern (Kathryn Newton), working for his thinly-disguised TV company CNM, helps Tim to solve it. Writer-director Rob Letterman (Shark Tale, Goosebumps) lets it all get decidedly weird, but there are a few great lines (all delivered by Reynolds), and some terrific computer-generated effects. Solid family fun. High Life (18) Verdict: Original, but pretentious Rating: This bizarre science-fiction drama from French director Claire Denis her English-language debut is nothing if not original. There have been some rhapsodic early reviews, including one, understandably quoted on the posters, that urges people to see the film a second, third and fourth time. Well, it didn't float my spaceship at all. One viewing was more than enough. It certainly begins arrestingly, with an astronaut (Robert Pattinson) tenderly communing with his baby daughter. It turns out that he is Monte, one of a band of Death Row convicts who have been despatched to infinity and beyond, partly to get shut of them. Robert Pattinson (pictured) stars in the science-fiction drama High Life by French director Claire Denis But they have also been propelled into space in the hope that their epic journey towards a black hole will provide scientists back on a blighted Earth with information they need to keep humankind alive. There is a doctor among them, dementedly played by Juliette Binoche, who was herself guilty of murder back on Earth. Her apparent job is to build the craft's future population by way of artificial insemination, which she does in all sorts of sneaky ways. Monte calls her the 'shaman of sperm' and resists her sexual advances, so instead she gets her kicks privately, in a special room that reminded me powerfully of the 'orgasmatron' in Woody Allen's 1973 sci-fi comedy Sleeper. Maybe that was why I found it impossible to take seriously. The film too often tumbles from whimsy into full-bore pretentiousness, while one sickeningly violent scene in particular seems designed purely to shock, not because it moves the story along. Pattinson, the former Twilight star, gives a strikingly committed performance, and all the cast buy admirably into Denis's disturbing vision of the future (which, very oddly indeed, includes the space travellers watching grainy old TV footage of an international rugby match at Murrayfield). Whether audiences will is another matter. THE VULTURE: Mail critics' pick of the week's must-see events ON STAGE: The Last Temptation of Boris Johnson Will Barton plays Boris Johnson Will Barton (pictured) stars as the titular anti-hero in Jonathan Maitlands comedy about the Tory Partys nemesis and self-styled saviour Alexander Boris de Pfeffel Johnson. Maitlands previous plays include An Audience With Jimmy Savile and Dead Sheep. Here, we find the bumbling blond looking back from 2029, once more mired in controversy amid fresh plans to make Britain great again. Previewing now, opens Monday, Park Theatre, London N4 3JP (park theatre.co.uk or call 020 7870 6876). PATRICK MARMION ON TOUR: Yola Somerset singer Yola Carter Once a backing vocalist for Katy Perry and Will Young, Somerset singer Yola Carter (pictured) hooked up with Black Keys frontman Dan Auerbach to record her debut album, Walk Through Fire, in Nashville Out now on Auerbachs independent Easy Eye Sound label, the album is a compelling blend of country and Dusty Springfield-like soul ballads. Now back on home soil, Yola starts a UK tour at the Cathedral Quarter Arts Festival, Belfast, on Sunday. She also plays Glastonbury in June. ADRIAN THRILLS ON SHOW: Women's Work Pioneering Women In Craft 19181939 The lovely Sussex village of Ditchling is always worth a visit, with its thriving museum an extra treat. This excellent exhibition reveals how highly original women textile makers (pictured), ceramicists and silversmiths adapted traditional skills to modern design and created successful businesses between the wars. Women's Work: Pioneering Women In Craft 19181939; Ditchling Museum until October 6; ditchlingmuseumart craft.org.uk. ROBIN SIMON ON TV: Mum Lesley Manville as Cathy Two years and two series after Cathy (Lesley Manville, pictured) lost her husband, the beautifully observed little gem of a sitcom returns for a third and, sadly, final series. This time its moved to a new location, as the family gather at a posh country house to celebrate Dereks birthday. As always, its an absolute joy. Wednesday, 10pm, BBC2. MIKE MULVIHILL She is a former reality star who is known for showcasing her enviably toned frame. And Kimberley Garner looked red-hot as she stepped out for an preview of Spanish artist Coco Davez's solo exhibition 'Faceless at the Maddox Gallery in Notting Hill, London on Thursday. The ex Made In Chelsea star, 29, commanded attention in a striking scarlet wrap dress which revealed her cleavage and her honed legs as she strolled along. Sizzling: Kimberley Garner looked red-hot as she stepped out for the opening of a new exhibition at the Maddox Gallery in Notting Hill, London on Thursday Busty: The ex Made In Chelsea star, 29, commanded attention in a striking scarlet wrap dress which revealed her cleavage and her honed legs as she strolled along The gorgeous dress featured a plunging neckline which revealed the star's braless bust, before gathered at her toned midriff. Adding extra drama to the look, the dress rose high on her bronzed legs and featured a drop hem. She boosted her height with a pair of black strappy stiletto sandals. Wow: The gorgeous dress featured a plunging neckline which revealed the star's braless bust, before gathered at her toned midriff Happy couple: Ronan Keating attended the event with glamorous wife Storm Smitten: Maddox gallery creative director Jay Rutland and Tamara Ecclestone looked smitten as they posed for the camera Her dirty-blonde tresses were worn sleek and straight while the star went for her signature make-up look of bold brows, metallic shadow and glossy coral lips. The star was joined by a host of celebrities at the event - in aid of Teen Cancer America - with Tamara Ecclestone, Jay Rutland, Jamie Redknapp and Ronan Keating also in attendance. Kimberley is back in London following her recent house-hunting trip to Miami, but insists the British capital will always be her home. In a chat with MailOnline, the blonde admitted she flew to Florida after purchasing a dream home in the coastal city. 'I worked very hard last year and had even moved home for a few months to save money,' she explained. 'I really had my head down working to concentrate on goals, but achieved it on New Years Eve, praise God, and flew over here. Completing the sale on the plane over.' Leggy display: Kimberley showed off her bronzed legs in the daring gown Showbiz pals: Jamie Redknapp joined Jay for a chat at the event Glow: Tamara opted for a glamorous palette of make-up for the prestigious event Dapper: Susanna Reid's ex Steve Parish was seen chattng with friends at the event Reflecting on her new home, the swimwear designer confessed it is a world away from her former busy life in London. 'Its right on the beach, and really is a dream come true,' she explained. 'I am over doing the interior design, going for a beachy chilled vibe for the place. 'I wont be moving here, as London is one hundred percent home, but really overjoyed and proud to have achieved it.' Although the reality personality is a swimwear designer, she is now following in her familys footsteps and venturing into high-end property development. After extensive renovations, the former reality star is said to have increased the value of a house which she bought in 2013 for 1.2 million, by over 1 million. The starlet's choice to go into property has resulted in her London pad doubling in value over a five-year period. Shia LaBeouf showed off his several tattoos while wandering around in his underwear in Los Angeles this Thursday. The 32-year-old Disturbia star was wearing only boxer brief, socks and sneakers when he posed for a photo with a fan along a sidewalk. Last month, Shia lifted his T-shirt and introduced his 'CREEPER' stomach tattoo to the public while enjoying a stroll out and about in Beverly Hills. Bare essentials: Shia LaBeouf showed off his several tattoos while wandering around in his underwear in Los Angeles this Thursday Shia, who is now dating FKA Twigs, traveled to Texas in March for the world premiere of The Peanut Butter Falcon, his film about a young man with Down syndrome. The actor who plays the lead character and himself has Down syndrome, Zachary Gottsagen, discussed the shoot with Shia at the film festival. He acknowledged Shia was in the midst of a 'struggle and bad times' when they met. 'I did change Shias life around to make it better,' he said, according to Variety. Their movie was filmed after video leaked of Shia swearing and shouting racial abuse at cops while getting arrested for being drunk and disorderly in Savannah. (Almost) in LaBeouf: The 32-year-old Disturbia star was wearing only boxer brief, socks and sneakers when he posed for a photo with a fan along a sidewalk His plea deal - guilty of misdemeanor obstruction, not guilty of public intoxication, no contest to disorderly conduct - landed him in rehab. While there, he wrote the screenplay for his cinema a clef movie Honey Boy, which premiered at the Sundance Film Festival in January. The film which stars Noah Jupe and Lucas Hedges will be released in select theaters on November 8 it was announced on Thursday. The director Alma Har'el revealed at the festival: 'He wrote this script in rehab and actually sent me an email from there with the script.' According to the Associated Press, she said of the former child star's script: 'So it was pretty mind blowing. I couldn't say no to that.' Hard at work: Shia, who is now dating FKA Twigs, traveled to Texas in March for the world premiere of The Peanut Butter Falcon, his film about a young man with Down syndrome Shia, whose own father Jeffrey is a Vietnam veteran and convicted pedophile who suffered addictions to heroin and alcohol, plays the father role in Honey Boy. His son, a child actor whom he abuses, is played by Manchester By The Sea's Lucas Hedges as a teen and A Quiet Place's Noah Jupe as a younger child. Shia was accused of plagiarizing Dan Clowes' comic book Justin M. Damiano for the plot of his 2014 short film Howard Cantour.com - and took the allegation seriously enough to issue a public apology to Dan. She may have been receiving one of showbiz's biggest accolades. But Anne Hathaway not only made a point to thank those who came before her but especially those who were there first. The 36-year-old actress made sure to acknowledge and thank the indigenous people of Los Angeles as she received a star on the Hollywood Walk Of Fame on Thursday. Great gesture: Anne Hathaway made sure to acknowledge and thank the indigenous people of Los Angeles as she received a star on the Hollywood Walk Of Fame on Thursday Hathaway took the focus away from herself as she made sure to recognize the Tongva people during her acceptance speech. She said: 'I started to think about the land that goes underneath the star, that land that goes beneath all of these stars, and how it was cared and kept for millennia, more than millennia, by the Tongva people. 'I think its important to mention that they still live here today. So the soul and the spirit that runs through the earth beneath us originates with and continues to be kept by them. 'They are the rightful keepers of the land': The 36-year-old actress took the focus away from herself as she made sure to recognize the Tongva people during her acceptance speech Support system: Anne was joined by husband Adam Shulman (left), mother Kate McCauley Hathaway (second from right), and father Gerald Hathaway (right) Sweet moment: Anne and her husband Adam stared adoringly at one another while posing with the star Bond: Anne looked to be very happy that her mother was in attendance Sweet: Anne's parents had big smiles on their faces while watching the ceremony 'So I would like to begin by thanking the Tongva people and by acknowledging that they are the rightful keepers of the land this star is on.' The sweet gesture was definitely acknowledge by the crowd who applauded during her speech. Tongva are the Native American people of Southern California who historically inhabited the Los Angeles basin and Southern Channel Islands which is an area covering approximately 4,000 square miles. Anne had plenty of familial support as she was joined by husband Adam Shulman , mother Kate McCauley Hathaway, and father Gerald Hathaway. Stunning: Anne looked absolutely gorgeous at the event as she sported a pink patterned mini dress with a black belt and olive green suede heels Natural beauty: Her brunette tresses were worn down as she wore complementary make-up on her porcelain skin while adding a pop of color in the form of bright red lipstick Enchanting: Anne looked proud to be posing with the new addition to the famed area She made sure to acknowledge her loved ones as she said: 'The gift of being the focus and recipient of your tremendous and enlightened love is, along with motherhood, the most important and profound part of my very blessed life. 'I am able to walk through this world as I do because you make me safe, held, seen and adored. I love you.' Many of Hathaway's Hollywood pals were also in attendance including Awkwafina who was one of the speakers at the ceremony. Tremendous trio: Director Dee Rees (left) and Awkwafina both spoke at the event The Oscar winner and 29-year-old rapper and actress had starred together on the female driven Ocean's Eight heist film last year. Awkwafina said that her generation had 'grown up' with Hathaway as she referenced her roles in The Princess Diaries franchise and The Devil Wears Prada. She said that Anne has set a 'standard' that even she won't be able to reach before saying she was 'truly a legend.' Anne was also joined by her The Hustle co-star Rebel Wilson who pulled out some funny poses kneeling by the star. Sweet: Anne was also joined by her The Hustle co-star Rebel Wilson Hamming it up: The 39-year-old Australian actress pulled some hilarious poses while kneeling Having the blast: Rebel had Anne in stitches at the gala event Another speaker at the event was Oscar-nominated director Dee Rees who was at the helm of Hathaway's upcoming film The Last Thing He Wanted. Anne looked absolutely gorgeous at the event as she sported a pink patterned mini dress with a black belt and olive green suede heels. Her brunette tresses were worn down as she wore complementary make-up on her porcelain skin while adding a pop of color in the form of bright red lipstick. Anne has enjoyed an incredible acting career which began in 2000. Claim to fame: Anne has had a storied career with her first notable role starring alongside Julie Andrews in 2001's The Princess Diaries Legendary: She starred alongside Meryl Streep in 2006's The Devil Wears Prada Golden: No doubt the peak of her career came when she won The Oscar in the Best Performance by an Actress in a Supporting Role category for her portrayal of Fantine in Les Miserables No doubt the peak of her career came when she won The Oscar in the Best Performance by an Actress in a Supporting Role category for her portrayal of Fantine in Les Miserables. She is one of the top actresses in the world - with nearly 50 credits to her name - as her films have earned $6.4 billion worldwide. Hathaway's latest project with Rebel Wilson, The Hustle, is set for release on Friday in the US and UK. One of the happiest moments of her life was nearly-derailed by a medical emergency. Nearly a month after giving birth and suffering major complications, Mercedes Javid is putting her Shahs Of Sunset co-stars on notice. The 46-year-old reality star claimed none of her colleagues have been in touch following her hospitalization, and Reza Farahan even blocked her on social media, according to TooFab on Thursday. Not holding back: Mercedes Javid, 46, claimed none of her colleagues have been in touch following her post-birth hospitalization, and Reza Farahan even blocked her on social media, according to TooFab on Thursday During a street interview, the Hollywood Hills-based real estate agent could only gush about her new baby. 'I'm in love,' she said, smiling. 'It's incredible, we're in a love cocoon. I'm so happy.' But the tone quickly turned darker as she revealed that her co-stars hadn't been in contact with her following her post-pregnancy complications, during which she was rushed to the ICU following extreme blood loss. 'I don't know exactly what's going on, but there's been a lot of drama without me there to speak on my behalf, and I know where all the bones are buried, so in a time where I want and should have my friends around me and supporting me, they were off prioritizing other things,' she said. 'Whether it's your own personal drama, nothing should come before, especially if you have 30 years of friendship,' she added. 'You don't get blocked on social while you're in ICU.' No voice: 'I don't know exactly what's going on, but there's been a lot of drama without me there to speak on my behalf' Ouch: Reza Farahan, Mercedes' longtime best friend and colleague, allegedly blocked her on all social media accounts The blocker in question was Reza Farahan, Mercedes' best friend and colleague who's been on Shahs of Sunset with her since its premiere in 2012. When asked if she knew why he had allegedly blocked her, she replied, 'I have a really good idea about why, but it's not a good reason,' she said, adding she would 'hopefully' be back in time to film season eight. When asked for clarification about his reason for shutting her out, she simply replied, 'Avoiding his problems.' An inkling: When asked if she knew why he had blocked her, she replied, 'I have a really good idea about why, but it's not a good reason' 'I've been loyal to you for 30 years. I've never faltered, there's never been an exception to that, so show me the same.' Mercedes gave birth via C-section to a baby boy named Shams on April 17, after which she was was taken to the ICU and spent five hours in surgery to combat blood loss, according to her husband, Tommy Feight. The ordeal followed a complicated pregnancy, during which she was admitted to the hospital in December to prevent a miscarriage. She was under a doctor's order to stay on bed rest for most of her pregnancy as well. In order to even make conceiving possible, the couple underwent multiple rounds of IVF treatments. She has an exciting few months ahead as filming begins on Bond 25. But on Thursday night it was time for Naomie Harris to party as she mingled with the fashion elite at Michael Kors' star-studded dinner at Browns Hotel in Mayfair, to celebrate the opening of the brand's new Collection flagship store in Bond Street, London. The actress, 42, showed off her impeccable style in a sharp two-piece suit for the glam event. Party time: She has an exciting few months ahead as filming begins on Bond 25. But on Thursday night it was time for Naomie Harris to party at Michael Kors' star-studded dinner Naomie looked super chic in the long-line blazer and matching cropped trousers in a jazzy print. She added a pair of ankle-strap black heels and a cream bag, while accentuating her waist with a skinny belt. The big screen star styled her short locks into tousled waves while she completed her look with flawless makeup. Always chic: The actress, 42, showed off her impeccable style in a sharp two-piece suit for the glam event. Suits you: Naomie looked super chic in the long-line blazer and matching cropped trousers in a jazzy print Naomie has spoken out on Bond 25 this week, which has recently started shooting in Jamaica. The actress revealed she's glad Phoebe Waller-Bridge is on hand to write the film as she'll 'ramp-up' the representation of women in the spy thriller. Naomie was speaking candidly about the hotly-anticipated film while at the GQ Heroes Summit in association with Flannels at Soho Farmhouse in London on Wednesday. Talented pair: Naomie mingled with pal Kate Moss at the fashion dinner, with the model matching in her own sharp suit Friends: The actress also posed for snaps with fellow big screen star Gemma Chan During the event, she said of the Fleabag creator: 'Phoebe Waller-Bridge is going to ramp up the female perspective on Bond 25. 'The Bond of old, his days are numbered,' she concluded, suggesting that the writer will shake up what's come to be expected of the character. Naomie is set to reprise her role as Eve Moneypenny in the flick, which will also mark the final time Daniel Craig takes on the role of James Bond. Phoebe has consistently impressed with her writing talent, with her shows Fleabag and Killing Eve taking the world by storm in recent years. Will Smith has admitted he found it 'stressful and daunting' taking on the role of Genie in the live-action remake of Disney's Aladdin. The actor felt that the 'spectacular' performance the late Robin Williams gave to the role in the 1992 animated original proved to be a very difficult shadow to step out of. Speaking to MailOnline before entering the European Gala Premiere of the film in London's Leicester Square on Thursday, Smith said: 'It was quite stressful and daunting, Robin Williams didnt leave much room to improve on the genie! Will Smith has admitted he found it 'stressful and daunting' taking on the role of Genie in the live-action remake of Disney's Aladdin 'You know thats what Robin Williams gave to the genie that was spectacular, and that was the thing that I was working really hard to capture but give it my flavour. 'The genie will say anything or do anything, theres a certain madness to the genie - that was the fun that Robin Williams created so I was trying to find what that meant, with a little more of a Fresh Prince flavour to it. 'I wanted to create something that was both nostalgic but also had a little bit new school sometimes.' Williams voiced Genie in the original Aladdin, as well as the direct-to-video third film in the original franchise, Aladdin And The King Of Thieves. Hard shoes to fill: Smith felt that the 'spectacular' performance the late Robin Williams gave to the role in the 1992 animated original proved to be a very difficult shadow to step out of [pictured voicing the role in 1992] Iconic role: Williams voiced Genie in the original Aladdin, as well as the direct-to-video third film in the original franchise, Aladdin And The King Of Thieves [pictured at the third movie's premiere in Los Angeles in 1996] Smith went on: 'You know thats what Robin Williams gave to the genie that was spectacular, and that was the thing that I was working really hard to capture but give it my flavour' Bringing the fun: 'The genie will say anything or do anything, theres a certain madness to the genie - that was the fun that Robin Williams created so I was trying to find what that meant,' Smith said He sat out the first sequel, The Return Of Jafar, following a contractual dispute with Disney at the time. After returning for the third film, Williams voiced Genie in the character's own mini-series, Great Minds Think For Themselves. He later died in 2014. The Simpsons star, Dan Castellaneta, filled in for Williams for The Return Of Jafar and the subsequent Aladdin TV series. Smith went on to chat about Guy Ritchie, the director of the film, and his vision of the live-action Genie: 'Guy Ritchie had a very specific tie on what he wanted the genie to look like, he kept saying 1970s body builder! Geni-ous! After returning for the third film, Williams voiced Genie in the character's own mini-series, Great Minds Think For Themselves. He later died in 2014 Quick off the mark: Smith was the first member of the cast to join, signing on to portray Genie in July 2017 Princely: Smith said that he wants his Genie to have 'a little more of a Fresh Prince flavour to it' 'He said he wanted him to look like one of those body builders whose upper body is really huge and the legs are really small because they missed leg day so that was the comedic take of how he wanted him to look.' Aladdin is the second of 2019's live-action remakes from Disney - in a year that sees Dumbo, The Lion King and Lady And The Tramp brought to life. Smith joined co-stars Naomi Scott and Mena Massoud on the 'magic carpet' for the movie's European debut at the Odeon Luxe. Smith went on to chat about Guy Ritchie, the director of the film, and his vision of the live-action Genie: 'Guy Ritchie had a very specific tie on what he wanted the genie to look like, he kept saying 1970s body builder' He added: 'He said he wanted him to look like one of those body builders whose upper body is really huge and the legs are really small because they missed leg day so that was the comedic take of how he wanted him to look' Looking fresh: The Independence Day hunk, 50, grinned as he rocked a gingham two-piece suit, in cream, beige, black and white at Thursday's premiere Massoud takes on the titular role of the poverty-stricken 'street rat' who happens upon a magic lamp, conjures up a genie and wins the heart of Princess Jasmine [Scott]. Also in attendance was director Ritchie and his wife Jacqui Ainsley. Actor Marwan Kenzari also took to the purple carpet. He will portray villain Jafar, who enslaves Genie and attempts to seduce Jasmine. Aladdin has been co-written by John August and also stars Navid Negahban, Nasim Pedrad, and Billy Magnussen. Disney announced the project in the autumn of 2016, following the success of live-action versions of The Jungle Book, Beauty And The Beast, Cinderella and Alice In Wonderland and it's sequel Through The Looking Glass. Fan fave: Smith looked delighted to be in London, posing for snaps and happily interacting with fans Magic carpet ride: Smith larked around on the carpet as he joined his co-stars for the event A laugh a minute: The notoriously-jovial Smith seemed to emulate his bouncy Genie persona as he laughed and joked around on the purple carpet Smith was the first member of the cast to join, signing on to portray Genie in July 2017, and later that month Massoud and Scott were confirmed for the two lead roles. The movie was shot at Longcross Studios in Surrey, England, and in the Wadi Rum Desert in Jordan. Later this year, The Lion King will hit cinemas, as will Maleficent: Mistress of Evil [based on Sleeping Beauty] and Lady And The Tramp. Further live-action remakes in the works include Pinocchio, The Little Mermaid, Lilo & Stitch and The Hunchback Of Notre Dame, with Cruella [based on 101 Dalmations] and Mulan set for 2020 releases. I can show you the way: Mena Massoud and Naomi Scott portray the lovers in the movie Feisty: Scott plays the role of Princess Jasmine, who tries to defy her father's attempts to force her into an arranged marriage and instead falls for Aladdin Hero: Aladdin makes three wishes via the magic lamp - one of which involves transforming into a prince to win the heart of Jasmine Smith looked delighted to be in London, posing for snaps and happily interacting with fans. The Independence Day hunk, 50, grinned as he rocked a gingham two-piece suit, in cream, beige, black and white. Underneath, he wore a V-neck mustard sweater and added shiny brown loafers to the ensemble. The notoriously-jovial star seemed to emulate his bouncy Genie persona as he laughed and joked around on the purple carpet. Aladdin arrives in cinemas on May 24. Peace! Will was in high spirits as he headed home after the Aladin premiere after party US President Donald Trump is surrounded by US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and US National Security Advisor John Bolton during a NATO summit in Brussels in July 2018 One year after President Donald Trump bolted from the Iran nuclear deal, the United States is ratcheting up pressure on Tehran nearly by the day, from expanding sanctions to deploying B-52 bombers. But even if the US campaign has succeeded in causing economic suffering in Iran, the broader objectives remain vague, with no clear end-game on how to wind down tensions that have raised fears of war. Iran -- which for the past year has made a point of steadfastly complying with the multinational nuclear accord negotiated under then president Barack Obama -- on Wednesday's anniversary said it would stop observing some limits set by the deal. Voicing frustration, President Hassan Rouhani appealed to European powers -- which still back the agreement -- to do more to allow trade so Iran feels the benefits of the agreement. The Trump administration has relentlessly pursued a campaign of "maximum pressure," on Wednesday vowing to stop all of Iran's steel and mineral exports -- after already threatening to punish any country that buys its top product, oil. In recent days the United States has also announced the deployment of an aircraft carrier strike group and the nuclear-capable B-52 bombers to the region, warning of a response to what it charges is an "imminent" threat from Iran. Senator Chris Murphy, a Democrat, called Trump's policy an "unmitigated disaster" that has goaded Iran into resuming a nuclear program that it had stopped. "Trump's Iran strategy is blind escalation. There is no end-game. No overriding strategy. No way out," Murphy tweeted. "It's just escalation for the sake of escalation. That's wildly dangerous and inexcusably dumb, in that order," he said. - 'Method to the madness'?- US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo at Lancaster House in London on a visit aimed in part at shoring up pressure on Iran Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said that the pressure campaign has achieved "significant successes" and has repeatedly pointed to financial woes of Hezbollah, the militantly anti-Israel Lebanese movement backed by Iran. Pompeo in May 2018 laid out 12 demands that virtually no Iran watchers believe the clerical regime will meet, including a complete scaling back of its regional role and support of Shiite militias, who often clash with US allies Saudi Arabia and Israel. Suzanne Maloney, deputy director for foreign policy at the Brookings Institution, played down the risks of war, saying that the Trump administration understood the dangers of a full-fledged conflict with Iran. "What the administration does want is for Iran to be under maximum pressure for a sustained period of time in order to minimize or even reverse its advantages across the region," Maloney said. She said that US officials believed from past experience that Iran "doesn't bend under a small amount of pressure" but could change if faced with severe threats. "I think there is a method to the madness," she said. But she doubted Iran would bow to demands to withdraw itself from the region. "I don't think they will pull back because if they did, the administration would read that as a signal that its approach is working and it would only double-down," she said. - Nuclear deal withers - Iranian President Hassan Rouhani speaks during a military ceremony in April 2019 Some experts believe that the United States may in fact welcome an unraveling of the nuclear accord, which would no longer give Iran the moral high ground of complying with it. "If the administration is willing to take the risk of the nuclear deal completely collapsing, then their policies to date are moving us in that direction," said Dalia Dassa Kaye, director of the Center for Middle East Public Policy at the Rand Corporation. An Iranian withdrawal would help the administration build support for a more confrontational approach, she said. "The question is still, to what end?" she said. "Some may hope for a regime collapse, but the Europeans -- and certainly not the Russians or Chinese -- will not support that objective," she said, adding that there remained "a lot of confusion" over US objectives. Trump, who threatened to destroy North Korea before meeting its leader Kim Jong Un in two landmark summits, on Wednesday said that he hoped "someday" to negotiate face-to-face with Iran's leaders. But few see a willingness to meet the hawkish president from Iran's leaders, for whom hostility toward the United States is a bedrock principle of the 1979 Islamic Revolution that toppled the pro-Western shah. Instead, Iranian officials may be waiting for next year to see if Trump is re-elected, with the Democrats seeking to unseat him broadly supporting the nuclear accord. But Quentin Lopinot, a visiting fellow at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, said an expected showdown could come much sooner. "The question is the breaking point. When will the Iranians stop sticking to a point-by-point response?" he said. In Iran's announcement, it gave European powers 60 days to fulfill commitments on sanctions relief -- a hard sell for European businesses that fear punishment in the United States. "Until now the Iranians seemed to want to buy time, but this ultimatum risks bringing forward an escalation," Lopinot said. The EU has stressed the importance of the nuclear deal for its own security European powers Thursday denounced Tehran's threat to resume nuclear work, drawing a sharp response from the Iranian foreign minister who accused them of caving in to US bullying. The three European signatories to the 2015 Iran nuclear deal urged the Islamic republic to stick to its commitments after it said it would stop respecting some limits imposed by the agreement. They rejected an ultimatum from President Hassan Rouhani, who threatened to go further if they fail to deliver sanctions relief within 60 days to counterbalance US President Donald Trump's assault on the Iranian economy. EU diplomatic chief Federica Mogherini and France, Germany and Britain -- the three European nations in the deal -- voiced "great concern" over Rouhani's intervention, which came on the anniversary of Trump's withdrawal of the United States from the agreement negotiated under his predecessor Barack Obama. "We strongly urge Iran to continue to implement its commitments under the JCPOA in full as it has done until now and to refrain from any escalatory steps," they said in a joint statement, referring to the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action as the deal is known. "We reject any ultimatums and we will assess Iran's compliance on the basis of Iran's performance regarding its nuclear-related commitments under the JCPOA." Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif hit back on Twitter. "EU statement today is why JCPOA is where it is: the US has bullied Europe -- and rest of world -- for a year and EU can only express 'regret'," Zarif tweeted. "Instead of demanding that Iran unilaterally abide by a multilateral accord, EU should uphold obligations," he said, calling for the "normalization of economic ties." - New US warnings - Tehran says it is responding to new unilateral US sanctions, which have dealt a severe blow to the Iranian economy Tensions have soared between Iran and the United States, which has announced the deployment of an aircraft carrier strike group and nuclear-capable bombers to the region, saying it had information of Iranian-backed plots. "The regime in Tehran should understand that any attacks by them or their proxies of any identity against US interests or citizens will be answered with a swift and decisive US response," Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said in the latest stern US warning. But with Trump's Democratic rivals accusing him of pushing towards conflict on hyped-up intelligence, Pompeo also said, "We do not seek war." And Trump -- who threatened to destroy North Korea before sitting down with its leader Kim Jong Un for two landmark summits -- said he was open to face-to-face negotiations. "What I would like to see with Iran, I would like to see them call me," Trump told reporters at the White House. "We don't want them to have nuclear weapons -- not much to ask," he said. Few observers expect any talks soon between Trump and Iran's leaders, for whom hostility toward the United States is a bedrock principle of the 1979 Islamic Revolution that toppled the pro-Western shah. Trump, a close ally of Iran's rivals Saudi Arabia and Israel, has vowed "maximum pressure" to roll back Tehran's influence in the region. Trump on Wednesday moved to end all of Iran's steel and mining exports after already mobilizing to slap sanctions on all countries that buy its key money-maker of oil. - EU shouldn't 'get jumpy' - US President Donald Trump ripped up the 2015 nuclear deal, calling it a "horrible" agreement Europe has stressed the importance of the deal -- in which Iran agreed to curb its nuclear ambitions in return for sanctions relief -- for its own security, and EU leaders discussed the crisis at their summit in the Romanian town of Sibiu. French President Emmanuel Macron appealed for calm, saying Europe must work to persuade Iran to stick with the deal. "We must not get jumpy or fall into escalation," Macron said, warning that leaving the deal would "unstitch what we have achieved". "That's why France is staying in, and will stay in and I profoundly hope Iran will stay in," Macron said as he arrived for an EU summit in Romania. Russia, another signatory to the deal along with China, on Thursday denounced the latest US sanctions and said it understood why Iran had decided to suspend some of its commitments -- but urged Tehran not to go further. Since the US pullout, Europe has sought to keep Iran in the deal by trying to maintain trade via a special mechanism called INSTEX to clear payments without falling foul of American sanctions. Chronology of the Iran nuclear deal The European statement reiterated its commitment to "enable the continuation of legitimate trade with Iran". But few major European companies want to risk the wrath of US sanctions for the sake of the Iranian market and the country's supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has dismissed the European efforts as a "bitter joke". ROSZKE, Hungary (AP) - Hungary deported a family of six Afghan asylum-seekers to Serbia on Tuesday, making them cross through a gate in the border fence in the dark, with no one waiting for them on the Serbian side. The nighttime deportation was considered very unusual and was witnessed by staff from the U.N. refugee agency. The couple and four children were taken from a transit zone for asylum-seekers to the border aboard a police truck, and they were visibly distressed as they carried their belonging into Serbia in large trash bags. "This is the worst country in my life," the mother could be heard saying to police shutting the border gate. She told them that they, too, could be refugees in the future. "You remember that!" Hungary has a double line of fences on the Serbian border. They began going up in mid-2015, at the height of the migrant crisis in Europe, when sometimes nearly 10,000 people a day - many from Syria Iraq and Afghanistan - were entering Hungary from Serbia, on their way to Western Europe. The fences are crowned by razor wire and equipped with heat and movement sensors, cameras and watchtowers. There are also several strands of electrified wiring in front of the fences, though the Hungarian government has claimed that they are not meant to harm trespassers. A family are transported to a transit zone for asylum seekers by police bus, in Roszke, Hungary, Tuesday, May 7, 2019. Hungary has deported a family of six asylum-seekers to Serbia, making them cross a gate in the border fence in the dark, with no one waiting for them on the Serbian side. A Hungarian human rights group said they had secured an interim measure to stop the deportation of one of two other families awaiting a similar fate. (AP Photo/Pablo Gorondi) Prime Minister Viktor Orban won a third consecutive term in April 2018 campaigning almost exclusively on his fervent anti-immigration policies. The Hungarian branch of the Helsinki Committee, which gives legal assistance to asylum-seekers, said it had secured an interim measure at the European Court of Human Rights to stop the deportation of one of two other Afghan families also awaiting a similar fate. "The asylum claim of these three families should have been examined on their merits by the Hungarian authorities instead of trying to deport them," said Andras Lederer, the Helsinki Committee's information and advocacy officer. Legal changes introduced last year by Hungarian lawmakers make it much more difficult for asylum-seekers to file successful applications in Hungary. For example, asylum-seekers' claims are to be rejected if they traveled through countries where they were not persecuted or at risk of persecution. This makes it possible to turn back refugees who cross into Hungary from Serbia, like many do after following a land route through the Balkan region. According to Hungary's Immigration and Asylum Office, 279 people were granted asylum or some degree of protection in the first four months of this year. It added that as of April 30, there were 3,616 people who are legally recognized as refugees or have been granted protection in Hungary, a country of 9.8 million. A dozen children have been killed in Syria the latest breach of a fragile ceasefire. Attacks have been reported on schools, hospitals and medical staff and nearly 60 civilians have been killed during escalating violence in the demilitarised region of Idlib over the last fortnight. The news comes six weeks to the day that Middle East minister Alistair Burt quit in an attempt to avert a no-deal Brexit. Theresa May has yet to appoint a replacement. Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt condemned the flagrant violation of the ceasefire agreement by Russia and the Syrian regime, which has also forced 150,000 people from their homes. Mr Hunt said it included the use of barrel bombs for the first time in seven months and threatened a swift and appropriate response if Russia or Turkey used illegal chemical weapons. He said: The latest offensive, a flagrant violation of the ceasefire agreement that Russia itself agreed with Turkey, is only compounding what was already a dire humanitarian situation in Idlib. Russia and the Asad regime must respect their obligations under the Sochi agreement and international humanitarian law. They must also remember that any future use of chemical weapons in Syria would be met with a swift and appropriate response. Unicef executive director Henrietta Fore said the ceasefire was broken on April 20 and the violence has continued to escalate. More than 30,000 people have fled their homes in the last month, with four health facilities destroyed and at least two schools damaged in the same period. Ms Fore said aid workers could no longer enter the region to provide safe water or medical support. She said: The fighting intensified over the past few days, causing our partners on the ground to halt programmes to provide safe water, adequate sanitation and hygiene to affected communities in northern Hama and southern Idlib. At least 5,500 people have been left with no water at all. Services can only resume once security conditions improve. She appealed for children to be protected and called for an end to the fighting so Unicef teams could continue aid work. We yet again urge all parties to the conflict and those with influence over them to protect children at all times, she said. Killing and maiming children is a grave violation of childrens rights. Civilian infrastructure including health, water and education facilities, are not a target and must not come under attack. OSLO, May 9 (Reuters) - Norwegian banking group DNB's asset management arm has overcharged fund investors and must compensate around 180,000 customers, an appeals court ruled on Thursday in what had been billed as a test case for the industry. While the verdict gave guidelines for how to calculate reparations for individual customers, it was not immediately clear how much DNB would have to pay overall. In the class action lawsuit, Norway's biggest to date, the public Consumer Council had claimed 690 million Norwegian crowns ($78.70 million) on behalf of DNB customers who invested in three funds between January 2010 and December 2014. The company had denied claims that its asset management arm charged customers for actively managing funds, while in reality simply tracking a stock market index - a much cheaper service to provide. The verdict reversed the findings of a lower court, which in January 2018 ruled in favour of DNB. The Norwegian Consumer Council argued the case held importance far beyond the specific claim against DNB, as it could help protect people's savings and pensions from overcharging in the future. ($1 = 8.7673 Norwegian crowns) (Reporting by Terje Solsvik Editing by Keith Weir) SOFIA, May 9 (Reuters) - A consortium led by France's Aeroports de Paris (ADP) has offered the highest concession fee in a tender to operate Sofia Airport, Bulgaria's main air transport hub, the transport ministry said on Thursday. Five airport operators and investors from Britain, Germany, France and Denmark bid in a tender for the 35-year concession, with ADP offering to pay 32.8 million euros ($36.69 million) per year or 42.8 percent of the annual revenue, whichever is higher. Its total offer was well above the 550 million euros - including fees of 7.7 million euros a year, plus a 280 million euro upfront payment - that Bulgaria had been looking to secure. It also asked for an investment of 600 million euros to cover among other things the building of a third passenger terminal. ADP, which has teamed up on the bid with Turkey's TAV Airports, has offered to invest 903 million euros in the airport over the duration of the contract, in addition to its annual concession fee. The transport ministry plans to pick a winner after a month at the earliest and will assess both the offered fees and the business development plans for the airport, Transport Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov said after the binding offers were opened. "We will be looking very seriously at all the offers. We are happy with the interest shown," Zhelyazkov said. Other bidders have committed to spend between 600 million and one billion euros to renovate the airport and expand its shopping and parking areas. Britain's largest airport operator, Manchester Airports Group, bidding in a tie-up with China's construction firm BCEG, also offered an annual concession fee of 20 million euros a year. Germany's Fraport, which operates Frankfurt airport, offered 21 million. A consortium comprising asset manager Meridiam and the operator of Munich Airport offered 24.5 million euros a year, and a tie-up between Copenhagen Airports and SSB Sauernwein & Schaefer made a bid of 26.5 million euros. ($1 = 0.8882 euros) (Reporting by Tsvetelia Tsolova; Editing by Jan Harvey) DUBAI, May 9 (Reuters) - Libya plans to increase oil output from existing fields to 1.4 million barrels per day (bpd) by the end of 2019 and 2.1 million bpd by 2023, state-run National Oil Corp. said on its website on Thursday. The company cited a speech by its chairman, Mustafa Sanalla at a conference Houston, in which he also cautioned that the ongoing war in the North African nation could jeopardise the expansion. (Reporting by Maher Chmaytelli; Editing by Kirsten Donovan) There are two kinds of people on this planet. First, those who avoid human interaction who will probably lower their heads and look away if they spot you approaching from afar. Second, those who crave attention in all forms. And then, there's Rakhi Sawant. No, lets not call her 'controversys child' for poor Rakhi Sawant isnt seeking controversy. Trust us controversies come looking for her! Case in point: Some of her recent Instagram posts. The dancer, actor, ex-politician and Indias answer to a Donald Trump-level of madness, shared some stills and behind-the-scenes videos from the sets of her film, Dhara 370. Rakhi Sawant explained that her character in the film is a Pakistani girl, who just happens to find herself in a belly-dance sequence in the film hence the jiggly, jingly costume. The film, co-starring Hiten Tejwani whom you might remember from his recent sting videos that went viral will see Rakhi Sawant apparently as a benevolent Pakistani who helps Kashmiri Indians brainwashed into terrorism and turned into jihadis. But thats her screen character. As far as Rakhi Sawant herself is concerned, she is an Indian at heart. Guys, thats the most important point here lets not overlook that. While several of those photographs had a Pakistani flag in the background, clearly used as a prop to reinforce the Pakistani-ness of the character and the Pakistani-ness of the land they're thumping around one particular picture of Rakhi has ruffled many a feather. A Rare Occasion: When India and Pakistan feel the same way. (Photo: Instagram screenshot) Rakhi is seen wearing the Pakistan flag around her torso like a dupatta. And how dare she, right? Like one Instagram user said, Paise ki khatir dushman mulk ka jhannda sine se laga lengi? (Will you hug your enemy nations flag for money?) Some even suggested she get Pakistani citizenship You are suitable for Pakistani citizenship ms Rakhi Pakistani Sawant! while others straightaway decided to unfollow her. Indians were not the only ones outraged. One Pakistani Instagrammer said, "Humare Flag se duur rhoo. Tmhri shakl aur auqat nh k humar flag ko dilse lagao! (Stay away from our flag. Your face and pedigree doesn't permit you to use our flag!) So, Indians want to send her away but Pakistanis don't want her either? Height of confusion! At the risk of sounding insensitive, lets just admit that both Rakhi and her mad fans perhaps deserve each other it's truly a match made in social media heaven. Neither seem able to control their emotions, and with the outpouring of feelings, basic grammar also goes for a toss. Whatever the language may be Hindi, English or the language of the heart! View this post on Instagram A post shared by Rakhi Sawant (@rakhisawant2511) on May 8, 2019 at 9:22am PDT Anyone looking for a breather in-between heavy political analysis on the Internet should just go into the comments section of Rakhi Sawant's official Instagram page and grab the popcorn on the way. Of course, at this point, it's futile to reason with trolls about how this is just acting, it's make-believe! Just like people who play doctors on screen are not really doctors, they're just acting, characters who play Pakistanis on screen are not really 'anti-national'. But then, our hands were full with the tub of popcorn v and we forgot to carry the two hoots we meant to give initially. Also read: The curious case of Rakhi Sawant: Why is she the way she is iShares iBoxx $ Investment Grade Corporate Bond ETF's stock was trading at $123.88 on March 11th, 2020 when COVID-19 reached pandemic status according to the World Health Organization. Since then, LQD stock has increased by 7.1% and is now trading at $132.70. View which stocks have been most impacted by COVID-19. NCI Building Systems, Inc. designs, engineers, manufactures, and markets metal products for the nonresidential construction industry in North America. It operates in four segments: Engineered Building Systems, Metal Components, Insulated Metal Panels, and Metal Coil Coating. The Engineered Building Systems segment offers engineered structural members and panels; and self-storage building systems under the Metallic, Mid-West Steel, A & S, All American, Mesco, Star, Ceco, Robertson, Garco, Heritage, and SteelBuilding.com brands to builders, general contractors, developers, and end users directly, as well as through private label companies. The Metal Components segment provides metal roof and wall systems, metal partitions, metal trims, doors, and other related accessories for use in new construction, and repair and retrofit applications; roll-up doors; and interior and exterior walk doors under the MBCI, American Building Components, Eco-ficient, Metal Depots, and Doors and Buildings Components brands to manufacturers, contractors, subcontractors, distributors, lumberyards, cooperative buying groups, and other customers. The Insulated Metal Panels segment offers insulated metal panels for architectural, commercial, industrial, and cold storage end-market applications under the Metl-Span and CENTRIA brands. The Metal Coil Coating segment engages in cleaning, treating, and painting flat-rolled metals in coil form, as well as in slitting and/or embossing the metal, before the metal is fabricated for use by industrial users. It also cleans, treats, and coats heavy and light gauge metal coils for use in construction products, heating and air conditioning systems, water heaters, lighting fixtures, ceiling grids, office furniture, appliances, and other products; and provides toll coating and painted metal package services under the Metal Coaters and Metal Prep brands. NCI Building Systems, Inc. was founded in 1984 and is headquartered in Houston, Texas. Read More Air Canada provides domestic, U.S. transborder, and international airline services. It offers scheduled passenger services under the Air Canada Vacations and Air Canada Rouge brand name in the Canadian market, the Canada-U.S. transborder market, and in the international market to and from Canada, as well as through capacity purchase agreements on other regional carriers. As of December 31, 2020, the company operated a fleet of 169 aircraft under the Air Canada mainline brand name comprising 91 Boeing and Airbus narrow-body aircraft, and 78 Boeing and Airbus wide-body aircraft; 136 aircraft under the Air Canada Express brand name, including 49 Bombardier regional jets, 62 De Havilland Dash-8 turboprop aircraft, and 25 Embraer 175 aircraft; and 39 aircraft under the Air Canada Rouge brand name consisting of 14 Airbus A321 aircraft, 5 Airbus A320 aircraft, and 20 Airbus A319 aircraft. It also provides air cargo services in domestic and U.S. transborder routes, as well as on international routes between Canada and markets in Europe, Asia, South America, and Australia. In addition, the company operates, develops, markets, and distributes vacation travel packages in the Caribbean, Mexico, the United States, Europe, Central and South America, South Pacific, Australia, and Asia; offers cruise packages in North America, Europe, and the Caribbean; and provides travel loyalty programs. Air Canada was founded in 1937 and is headquartered in Saint-Laurent, Canada. Read More As part of the EU-funded ETHOS research project - which sets out to build knowledge around justice in Europe, raise awareness of impediments to justice, and provide guidelines for policies to prevent and reverse injustice - a recently published report, co-written by the Law Schools Professor Morag McDermont together with Dr Pier-Luc Dupont, Dr Eleanor Kirk and Professor Bridget Anderson, examines alternative employment dispute resolution in the UK. The report, entitled Promoting access to injustice? Alternative dispute resolution and employment relations in the UK, was written by Dr Pier-Luc Dupont (School of Sociology, Politics and International Studies (SPAIS) at the University of Bristol), Dr Eleanor Kirk (School of Law, University of Glasgow), Professor Morag McDermont, and Professor Bridget Anderson (SPAIS). Using data from a research programme led by Morag McDermont from 2012-2016 concerning the experiences of research participants who cannot easily afford to pay for legal advice pursuing employment disputes, the report makes important observations concerning the limitations of alternative dispute resolution mechanisms in this field. The report looks at how UK workers and employers are often encouraged to use alternative dispute resolution (ADR) mechanisms rather than Employment Tribunals (ETs) to settle conflicts, and unpacks the implications of the shift from judicial to extra-judicial dispute resolution for workers capacity to contest power inequalities and exercise their rights. The report was published as part of a European Union funded research project called ETHOS -Towards a European THeory Of juStice and fairness. The project is a collaboration running from January 2017 December 2019 between six research institutions in Austria, Hungary, the Netherlands, Portugal, the UK and Turkey. As set out on the Migrations Mobilities Bristol ETHOS page, the project explores how justice is understood theoretically and experienced in practice: Justice is a word that is widely used in politics and policies in many different countries and also in the European Union itself. We are interested in uncovering what different people - activists, policymakers, professionals, the person on the street mean by justice and fairness to better understand the possibilities of justice, and also why for some people it seems so difficult to achieve. The study will inform a wide range of stakeholders (including, but not restricted to policymakers) about different understandings and experiences of justice with a view to supporting attempts to reverse inequalities and to promote justice. Read the full report online. The Bank of Nova Scotia provides various banking products and services in Canada, the United States, Mexico, Peru, Chile, Colombia, the Caribbean and Central America, and internationally. It operates through Canadian Banking, International Banking, Global Banking and Markets, and Global Wealth Management segments. The company offers financial advice and solutions, and day-to-day banking products, including debit and credit cards, chequing and saving accounts, investments, mortgages, loans, and insurance to individuals; and business banking solutions comprising lending, deposit, cash management, and trade finance solutions to small businesses and commercial customers, including automotive financing solutions to dealers and their customers. It also provides wealth management advice and solutions, including online brokerage, mobile investment, full-service brokerage, trust, private banking, and private investment counsel services; and retail mutual funds, exchange traded funds, liquid alternative funds, and institutional funds. In addition, the company offers international banking services for retail, corporate, and commercial customers; and lending and transaction, investment banking advisory, and capital markets access services to corporate customers. Further, it provides Internet, mobile, and telephone banking services. The company operates a network of 952 branches and approximately 3,540 automated banking machines in Canada; and approximately 1,400 branches, 5,200 ATMs, and 22 contact centers internationally. The Bank of Nova Scotia was founded in 1832 and is headquartered in Halifax, Canada. Read More iShares MSCI Thailand ETF's stock was trading at $63.83 on March 11th, 2020 when COVID-19 (Coronavirus) reached pandemic status according to the World Health Organization. Since then, THD stock has increased by 17.3% and is now trading at $74.90. View which stocks have been most impacted by COVID-19. Bausch Health Companies Inc. develops, manufactures, and markets a range of pharmaceutical, medical device, and over-the-counter (OTC) products primarily in the therapeutic areas of eye health, gastroenterology, and dermatology. The company operates through four segments: Bausch + Lomb/International, Salix, Ortho Dermatologics, and Diversified Products. The Bausch + Lomb/International segment offers products with a focus on the vision care, surgical, and consumer and ophthalmology Rx products in the United States; and Solta products, branded and generic pharmaceutical products, OTC products, and medical device products, and Bausch + Lomb products in Canada, Europe, Asia, Australia, Latin America, Africa, and the Middle East. The Salix segment provides gastroenterology products in the United States. The Ortho Dermatologics segment offers dermatological products in the United States; and Solta medical aesthetic devices internationally. The Diversified Products segment provides pharmaceutical products in the areas of neurology and other therapeutic classes, as well as generic and dentistry products in the United States. The company was formerly known as Valeant Pharmaceuticals International, Inc. and changed its name to Bausch Health Companies Inc. in July 2018. Bausch Health Companies Inc. is headquartered in Laval, Canada. Read More Conagra Brands, Inc. engages in the manufacture and sale of processed and packaged foods. It operates through the following segments: Grocery and Snacks; Refrigerated and Frozen; International; and Foodservice. The Grocery and Snacks segment includes branded, shelf stable food products sold in various retail channels in the United States. The Refrigerated and Frozen segment comprises branded, temperature controlled food products sold in various retail channels in the United States. The International segment consists branded food products, in various temperature states, sold in various retail and foodservice channels outside of the United States. The Foodservice segment focuses in the branded and customized food products, including meals, entrees, sauces, and a variety of custom-manufactured culinary products packaged for sale to restaurants and other foodservice establishments in the United States. The company was founded by Alva Kinney and Frank Little in 1919 and is headquartered in Chicago, IL. Read More Final-year law student Julio Mkok was recently awarded a prize for outstanding achievements at The International Students Conference for Africa (TISCA) 2019. In this Q&A he speaks about the event, his Bristol University experience, and shares his future plans for making significant, far-reaching change. At this years awards night of TISCA 2019, held at the University of Lancaster, student Julio Mkok was awarded a prize for outstanding achievements in the academic year 2018/19. His nomination information read: 'Julio Mkok is a much-valued member of the student community at the University of Bristol, who is known to be intelligent, there for anyone who needs him, insanely funny and always able to make someone, even on their worst day, crack a smile. A final-year law Student, Julio has endeavoured to speak up for and represent his fellow students since the moment he arrived at the University. Throughout his entire degree at the University of Bristol he has been a course representative for LLB Law students at the University as he feels strongly that all students, and particularly International students, should have a voice. After talking to his fellow Kenyan, Ugandan and Ethiopian students he noticed that they felt they did not have as strong a presence in the university as other communities did and so took the initiative to set up Bristols first East African Society, last year, to riotous success. This year he has continued to represent students, with over 1400 people electing him to become Bristol Students Unions Union Affairs Officer. He hopes to continue improving student experiences at the University within this role, on a much wider scale than before as he is now able to affect the lives of all students at the University. One of the key initiatives his campaign ran on was improving student experience. What made you decide that Bristol University was the one for you? The esteemed reputation of the University with it being ranked top 10 for Law in the country and a prominent member of the Russell Group, but the determining factor was good references from past alumni from back home in Nairobi, Kenya. Why did you choose to study law? I am interested in politics and the best way to uphold the law is to understand the law. Congratulations on your ICONS award for outstanding achievement at TISCA 2019! Tell us about the event, what was it like finding out youd won the award? The International Students Conference for African Students (TISCA), held at Lancaster University, was indeed an exciting experience. The theme of TISCA 2019 was African Students & Achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and stressed that since the youth are the future of Africa, considering African students in the UK and their role in achieving the sustainable development goals has become crucial and non-negotiable. There were a wide variety of talks such as Why decolonisation of education and knowledge in Africa is an urgent task given by our very own Dr Foluke Adebisi. On a personal note I had the pleasure of meeting The Education Attache of the High Commission of Kenya to the UK, Hon. Dorothy Kamwilu, and sharing ideas on the education sector in the UK for international students. On Saturday night, there was a banquet dinner and awards night, where I had the honour of receiving the ICONS Award for outstanding achievements in this past academic year 2018/19, which included establishing the University's first Bristol East African Society as Charter President, being elected three years consecutively as a Law Course Rep and finally my recent election as one of the 7 Sabbatical Officers of the Bristol Student's Union - Union Affairs Officer. I was both humbled and proud to be presented with this award by Dr Akanimo Odon, CEO of the XN Foundation and organiser of TISCA 2019. What have you found most inspiring during your time at the University of Bristol? The best part of my time at the University of Bristol is the environment it creates to assist me to fulfil my full potential. It is an area where I can try out new things, make mistakes and learn from them in order to become better. What has been the biggest challenge you have faced while studying? Being away from home can be very hard at times (especially coming all the way from East Africa), but I have found that having a strong network around you of good friends and supportive teaching staff can help with that a lot. What are your plans for the future, do you have any long-term goals? As mentioned earlier, I have a keen interest in politics. I plan to become President of the Republic of Kenya one day in the future (vision 2032) to represent the interests and fight for the rights of the under-privileged people in order to make significant change, not only in society but in terms of the economy of Kenya and its relations with foreign states. Unum Group is engaged in providing financial protection benefits. It operates through the following segments: Unum US, Unum International, Colonial Life, Closed Block and Corporate. The Unum US segment comprises of group long-term and short-term disability insurance, group life and accidental death and dismemberment products, and supplemental and voluntary lines of business. The Unum International segment engages in the operations of UK business, which includes insurance for group long-term disability, group life, and supplemental lines of business that include dental, individual disability, and critical illness products; Poland business primarily includes insurance for individual and group life with accident and health riders. The Colonial Life segment includes insurance for accident, sickness, disability products, life products, and cancer and critical illness products. The Closed Block segment consists of individual disability, group and individual long-term care, and other insurance products no longer actively marketed. The Corporate segment refers to investment income on corporate assets and other corporate income and expenses not allocated to a line of business; and interest Read More The following companies are subsidiares of EnerSys: ABSL Power Solutions Inc., ABSL Power Solutions Ltd., Acumuladores Industriales EnerSys SA, Alpha Alternative Energy Inc., Alpha Broadband Services Inc., Alpha Innovations Industria e Comercio de Produtos Eletronicos Ltda., Alpha Innovations Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., Alpha Mexico Network Power S.A. de C.V., Alpha Tech Energy Solutions India Private Limited, Alpha Technical Services Ltd., Alpha Technologies Ltd., Alpha Technologies Pty. Ltd., Alpha Technologies Services Inc., Alphatec Technologies (Shenzhen) Co. Ltd., Argus Research Ltd., Batterias Hawker de Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., Battery Power International Pte Ltd., Coppervale Enterprises Inc., DCPM Engineering Sdn Bhd, EH Batterien AG, EH Europe GmbH, EH Global Holdings GmbH, EH Swiss Holdings GmbH, ENAS Industrial Batteries Morocco Sarl, EnerSys (Chaozhou) Huada Batteries Company Limited, EnerSys (China) Huada Batteries Company Limited, EnerSys (Chongqing) Huada Batteries Company Limited, EnerSys (Jiangsu) Huada Batteries Company Limited (94.7%) *, EnerSys (Luxembourg) Finance Sarl, EnerSys (Yangzhou) Huada Batteries Co. Ltd., EnerSys A/S, EnerSys AB, EnerSys AD, EnerSys AE, EnerSys AS, EnerSys Advanced Systems Inc., EnerSys Argentina S.A., EnerSys Asia Limited, EnerSys Australia Pty Ltd., EnerSys BV, EnerSys BVBA, EnerSys Battery Private Limited, EnerSys Brasil Ltda., EnerSys Bulgaria EOOD, EnerSys Canada Inc., EnerSys Capital Inc., EnerSys Cayman Euro L.P., EnerSys Cayman Holdings L.P., EnerSys Cayman Inc., EnerSys Delaware Inc., EnerSys Delaware LLC I, EnerSys Delaware LLC II, EnerSys Delaware LLC III, EnerSys Delaware LLC IV, EnerSys Delaware LLC V, EnerSys Energy Products Inc., EnerSys Europe Oy, EnerSys European Holding Co., EnerSys GmbH, EnerSys Holdings (Luxembourg) Sarl, EnerSys Holdings UK Ltd., EnerSys Hungaria Kft., EnerSys India Batteries Private Ltd., EnerSys JSC, EnerSys LLC, EnerSys Ltd., EnerSys Malaysia Sdn Bhd, EnerSys Mexico Holdings LLC, EnerSys Mexico Management LLC, EnerSys Participacoes Ltda., EnerSys Reserve Power Pte. Ltd., EnerSys S.r.l., EnerSys SARL, EnerSys SNC, EnerSys South East Asia Pte. Ltd., EnerSys de Mexico II S de R.L. de CV, EnerSys de Mexico S de R.L. de CV, EnerSys s.r.o., EnerSys sp. z o.o., EnerSystem Chile Ltda., Enersys Aku Sanaya Dis Ticaret Limited Sirketi, Esfinco LLC, Hawker GmbH, Hawker Power Systems Inc., Hawker Powersource Inc., Hawker Systems GmbH & Co. KG., ICS Industries Pty Ltd, ICS Industries Pty Ltd., ICS Sheet Metal Pty Ltd., Industrial Battery Holding Ltda., International Communication Shelters Australasia Pty Ltd., Lancord Pty Ltd., Lenmic Pty Ltd., MIB Energy Sdn Bhd, N Holding AB, National Infrastructure Pty Ltd., National Infrastructure Services Pty Ltd., NaviSemi Energy Pte Ltd., NaviSemi Inc., New Pacifico Realty Inc., NorthStar Battery Company LLC, NorthStar Battery Company LLC, NorthStar Battery DMCC, Outback Power Technologies Inc., Powercom (NSW) Pty Ltd., Powersonic S de R.L. de CV, Purcell Systems, Purcell Systems Inc., Purcell Systems International AB, Quallion LLC, Riverfront Holding S. de R.L. de C.V., Shenzhen Huada Power Supply Mechanical & Electrical Co. Ltd. , SiteTel Shanghai Co Ltd., SiteTel Sweden AB, Telecomponents & Supply (Hong Kong) Ltd., The Enser Corporation, UTS Holdings Sdn Bhd, UTS Technology (JB) Sdn Bhd, UTS Technology (PG) Sdn Bhd, YCI Inc., and Yecoltd S. de R.L. de CV. 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 following companies are subsidiares of Abbott Laboratories: 3A Nutrition (Vietnam) Company Limited, ABON Biopharm (Hangzhou) Co. Ltd., AGA Medical Belgium, AGA Medical Corporation, AGA Medical Holdings Inc., ALR Holdings, AML Medical LLC, APK Advanced Medical Technologies LLC, ATS Bermuda Holdings Limited, ATS Laboratories Inc., Abbott, Abbott (Jiaxing) Nutrition Co. Ltd., Abbott (UK) Finance Limited, Abbott (UK) Holdings Limited, Abbott AG, Abbott Asia Holdings Limited, Abbott Asia Investments Limited, Abbott Australasia Holdings Limited, Abbott Australasia Pty Ltd, Abbott B.V., Abbott Bahamas Overseas Businesses Corporation, Abbott Belgian Investments, Abbott Bermuda Holding Ltd., Abbott Biologicals B.V., Abbott Biologicals LLC, Abbott Bulgaria Luxembourg S.a r.l., Abbott Capital India Limited, Abbott Cardiovascular Inc., Abbott Cardiovascular Systems Inc., Abbott Delaware LLC, Abbott Diabetes Care Inc., Abbott Diabetes Care Limited, Abbott Diabetes Care Sales Corporation, Abbott Diagnostics GmbH, Abbott Diagnostics International Ltd., Abbott Diagnostics Technologies AS, Abbott Doral Investments S.L., Abbott Equity Holdings Unlimited, Abbott Equity Investments LLC, Abbott Established Products Holdings (Gibraltar) Limited, Abbott Finance Company SA, Abbott Financial Holdings SRL, Abbott France S.A.S., Abbott Fund Tanzania Limited, Abbott Gesellschaft m.b.H., Abbott GmbH & Co. KG, Abbott Health Products LLC, Abbott Healthcare (Puerto Rico) Ltd., Abbott Healthcare B.V., Abbott Healthcare Costa Rica S.A., Abbott Healthcare LLC, Abbott Healthcare Luxembourg S.a r.l., Abbott Healthcare Private Limited, Abbott Healthcare Products B.V., Abbott Healthcare Products Ltd, Abbott Holding (Gibraltar) Limited, Abbott Holding GmbH, Abbott Holding Subsidiary (Gibraltar) Limited, Abbott Holding Subsidiary (Gibraltar) Limited Luxembourg S.C.S., Abbott Holdings B.V., Abbott Holdings LLC, Abbott Holdings Limited, Abbott Holdings Poland Spoka z ograniczona odpowiedzialnoscia, Abbott Hungary Korlatolt Felelossegu Tarsasag, Abbott Iberian Investments (2) Limited, Abbott Iberian Investments Limited, Abbott India Limited, Abbott Informatics Asia Pacific Limited, Abbott Informatics Canada Inc, Abbott Informatics Corporation, Abbott Informatics Europe Limited, Abbott Informatics France, Abbott Informatics Germany GmbH, Abbott Informatics Netherlands B.V., Abbott Informatics Singapore Pte. Limited, Abbott Informatics Spain S.A., Abbott Informatics Technologies Ltd, Abbott International Corporation, Abbott International Enterprises Ltd., Abbott International Holdings Limited, Abbott International LLC, Abbott International Luxembourg S.ar.l., Abbott Investments Luxembourg S.a r.l., Abbott Ireland, Abbott Ireland Financing Designated Activity Company, Abbott Ireland Limited, Abbott Japan Co. Ltd., Abbott Kazakhstan Limited Liability Partnership, Abbott Knoll Investments B.V., Abbott Korea Limited, Abbott Laboratories (Bangladesh) Limited, Abbott Laboratories (Chile) Holdco (Dos) SpA, Abbott Laboratories (Chile) Holdco SpA, Abbott Laboratories (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd., Abbott Laboratories (Mozambique) Limitada, Abbott Laboratories (Pakistan) Limited, Abbott Laboratories (Philippines), Abbott Laboratories (Puerto Rico) Incorporated, Abbott Laboratories (Singapore) Private Limited, Abbott Laboratories A/S, Abbott Laboratories Argentina Sociedad Anonima, Abbott Laboratories B.V., Abbott Laboratories C.A., Abbott Laboratories Finance B.V., Abbott Laboratories GmbH, Abbott Laboratories Inc., Abbott Laboratories International LLC, Abbott Laboratories Ireland Limited, Abbott Laboratories Limited, Abbott Laboratories Limited - Laboratoires Abbott Limitee, Abbott Laboratories NZ Limited, Abbott Laboratories Pacific Ltd., Abbott Laboratories Poland Spoka z ograniczona odpowiedzialnoscia, Abbott Laboratories Products B.V., Abbott Laboratories Residential Development Fund Inc., Abbott Laboratories S.A., Abbott Laboratories SA, Abbott Laboratories Services Corp., Abbott Laboratories Slovakia s.r.o., Abbott Laboratories South Africa (Pty) Ltd., Abbott Laboratories Trading (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Abbott Laboratories Trustee Company Limited, Abbott Laboratories Uruguay S.A., Abbott Laboratories Vascular Enterprises, Abbott Laboratories d.o.o., Abbott Laboratories de Chile Limitada, Abbott Laboratories de Colombia S.A., Abbott Laboratories de Mexico S.A. de C.V., Abbott Laboratories druzba za farmacijo in diagnostiko d.o.o., Abbott Laboratories s.r.o., Abbott Laboratories(Hellas) Societe Anonyme, Abbott Laboratorios S.A., Abbott Laboratorios S.A., Abbott Laboratorios del Ecuador Cia. Ltda., Abbott Laboratuarlari Ithalat Ihracat ve Ticaret Ltd.Sti, Abbott Laboratorios Lda, Abbott Laboratorios do Brasil Ltda., Abbott Limited Egypt LLC, Abbott Logistics B.V., Abbott Management GmbH, Abbott Management LLC, Abbott Manufacturing Singapore Private Limited, Abbott Mature Products International Unlimited Company, Abbott Mature Products Management Limited, Abbott Medical (Hong Kong) Limited, Abbott Medical (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd., Abbott Medical (Portugal) Distribuicao de Produtos Medicos Lda, Abbott Medical (Schweiz) AG, Abbott Medical (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Abbott Medical (Singapore) Pte. Ltd., Abbott Medical (Thailand) Co. Ltd., Abbott Medical Australia Pty. Ltd., Abbott Medical Austria Ges.m.b.H., Abbott Medical Balkan d.o.o. Beograd (Novi Beograd), Abbott Medical Belgium, Abbott Medical Canada Inc./ Medicale Abbott Canada Inc., Abbott Medical Danmark A/S, Abbott Medical Devices Trading (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Abbott Medical Espana S.A., Abbott Medical Estonia OU, Abbott Medical Finland Oy, Abbott Medical France SAS, Abbott Medical GmbH, Abbott Medical Hellas Limited Liability Trading Company, Abbott Medical Ireland Limited, Abbott Medical Italia S.p.A., Abbott Medical Japan Co. Ltd., Abbott Medical Korea Limited, Abbott Medical Korlatolt Felelossegu Tarsasag, Abbott Medical Laboratories LTD, Abbott Medical Nederland B.V., Abbott Medical New Zealand Limited, Abbott Medical Norway AS, Abbott Medical Overseas Cyprus Limited, Abbott Medical Sweden AB, Abbott Medical Taiwan Co., Abbott Medical U.K. Limited, Abbott Medical spoka z ograniczona odpowiedzialnoscia, Abbott Middle East S.A.R.L., Abbott Molecular Inc., Abbott Morocco SARL, Abbott Nederland C.V., Abbott Nederland Luxembourg S.a r.l., Abbott Netherlands Investments B.V., Abbott Norge AS, Abbott Nutrition Limited, Abbott Nutrition Manufacturing Inc., Abbott Operations Singapore Pte. Ltd., Abbott Operations Uruguay S.R.L., Abbott Overseas Cyprus Limited, Abbott Overseas Luxembourg S.a r.l., Abbott Overseas S.A., Abbott Oy, Abbott Point of Care Canada Limited, Abbott Point of Care Inc., Abbott Poland Luxembourg S.a r.l., Abbott Procurement LLC, Abbott Products (Philippines) Inc., Abbott Products (Spain) S.L., Abbott Products Algerie EURL, Abbott Products B.V., Abbott Products Distribution SAS, Abbott Products Egypt LLC, Abbott Products Limited, Abbott Products Limited Liability Company, Abbott Products Luxembourg S.a r.l., Abbott Products Operations AG, Abbott Products Operations LLC, Abbott Products Romania S.R.L., Abbott Products Tunisie S.A.R.L., Abbott Products Unlimited Company, Abbott Resources Inc., Abbott Resources International Inc., Abbott S.r.l., Abbott Saudi Arabia Trading Company, Abbott Scandinavia Aktiebolag, Abbott Sociedad Anonima de Capital Variable, Abbott South Africa Luxembourg S.a r.l., Abbott Strategic Opportunities Limited, Abbott Trading Company Inc., Abbott Universal LLC, Abbott Vascular Devices (2) Limited, Abbott Vascular Devices Limited, Abbott Vascular Inc., Abbott Vascular Instruments Deutschland GmbH, Abbott Vascular International, Abbott Vascular Japan Co. Ltd, Abbott Vascular Limitada, Abbott Vascular Netherlands B.V., Abbott Vascular Solutions Inc., Abbott Ventures Inc., Abbott West Indies Limited, Abbott drustvo sa ogranicenom odgovornoscu za trgovinu i usluge, Advanced Neuromodulation Systems Inc., Alere, Alere (Shanghai) Diagnostics Co. Ltd., Alere (Shanghai) Healthcare Management Co. Ltd., Alere (Shanghai) Medical Sales Co. Ltd., Alere (Shanghai) Technology Co. Ltd., Alere A/S, Alere AB, Alere AS, Alere AS Holdings Limited, Alere BBI Holdings Limited, Alere Bangladesh Limited, Alere China Co. Ltd., Alere Colombia S.A., Alere Connect LLC, Alere Connected Health Limited, Alere Connected Health Ltd., Alere Diagnostics GmbH, Alere DoA Holding GmbH, Alere GmbH, Alere GmbH (Austria), Alere GmbH (Germany), Alere HK Holdings Ltd., Alere Health B.V., Alere Health BVBA, Alere Health Corp., Alere Health Sdn Bhd, Alere Health Services B.V., Alere Healthcare (Pty) Limited, Alere Healthcare Connections Limited, Alere Healthcare Inc., Alere Healthcare Nigeria Limited, Alere Healthcare S.L., Alere Holdco Inc., Alere Holding GmbH, Alere Holdings Bermuda Limited, Alere Holdings Pty Limited, Alere Home Monitoring Inc., Alere Inc., Alere Informatics Inc., Alere International Holding Corp., Alere International Limited, Alere Lda, Alere Limited, Alere Limited (New Zealand), Alere Medical BVBA, Alere Medical Co. Ltd., Alere Medical Pakistan (Private) Limited, Alere Medical Private Limited, Alere North America LLC, Alere Oy Ab, Alere Philippines Inc., Alere Phoenix ACQ Inc., Alere Pte Ltd, Alere S.A., Alere S.r.l., Alere S/A, Alere SAS, Alere San Diego Inc., Alere Scarborough Inc., Alere Spain S.L., Alere Switzerland GmbH, Alere Technologies GmbH, Alere Technologies Holdings Limited, Alere Technologies Limited, Alere Toxicology AB, Alere Toxicology Inc., Alere Toxicology S.r.l., Alere Toxicology Services Inc., Alere Toxicology plc, Alere UK Holdings Limited, Alere UK Subco Limited, Alere ULC, Alere US Holdings LLC, Alere s.r.o., Alisoc Investment & Co, Amedica Biotech Inc., Ameditech Inc., American Generics S.A.S., American Medical Supplies Inc., American Pharmacist Inc., Antares S.A., Apica Cardiovascular Limited, Aquagestion Capacitacion S.A., Aquagestion S.A., Arriva Medical LLC, Arriva Medical Philippines Inc., Arvis Investments Limited, Atlas Farmaceutica S.A., Avee Laboratories Inc., Axis-Shield AD III AS, Axis-Shield AD IV AS, Axis-Shield AS, Axis-Shield Diagnostics Limited, Axis-Shield Ltd., BBI Animal Health Limited, BBI Diagnostics Group 2 Public Limited Company, Banco de Vida S.A., Bioabsorbable Vascular Solutions Inc., Bioalgae S.A., Biohealth LLC, Biosite Incorporated, Bosque Bonito S.A., Branan Medical Corporation, Brandex Europe C.V., British Colloids Limited, CFR Chile S.A., CFR Interamericas EL Salvador Sociedad Anonima de Capital Variable, CFR Interamericas Nicaragua Sociedad Anonima, CFR Interamericas Panama S.A., CFR Pharmaceuticals, California Property Holdings III LLC, CardioMEMS LLC, Caripharm Inc., Cephea Valve Technologies, Cephea Valve Technologies Inc., Colibri Medical Aktiebolag, Comercializadora y Distribuidora CFR Interamericas Honduras S.A., Concateno South Limited, Concateno UK Limited, Consorcio Tecnologico en Biomedicina Clinico-Molecular S.A., Continuum Services LLC, Cozart Limited, Dextech S.A., Diagnostik Nord GmbH, Distribuciones Uquifa S.A.S., Domesco Medical Import-Export Joint-Stock Corporation, Duphar International Research B.V., Endocardial Solutions, Epocal (US) Inc, Esprit de Vie S.A., European Chemicals & Co, European Drug Testing Service EDTS AB, European Services S.A., Evalve Inc., Evalve International Inc., FARMINDUSTRIA S.A., Fada Pharma Paraguay Sociedad Anonima, Fadapharma del Ecuador S.A., Farmaceutica Mont Blanc S.L., Farmacologia Em Aquicultura Veterinaria Ltda., Farmacologia en Aquacultura Veterinaria FAV Ecuador S.A., Farmacologia en Aquacultura Veterinaria FAV S.A., Fernwood Investment S.A., First Check Diagnostics LLC, Focus Pharmaceutical S.A.S., Forensics Limited, Forestcreek Overseas S.A., Fournier Pharma Corp., Fournier Pharma GmbH, Fournier Pharmaceuticals Limited, Framed B.V., Gabmed GmbH, Garden Hills LLC, Global Analytical Development LLC, Globapharm & CO LP, Glomed Pharmaceutical Company Limited, Golnorth Investments S.A., Gynocare Limited, Gynopharm Sociedad Anonima, Gynopharm de Centroamerica S.A., Gynopharm de Venezuela C.A., Hi-Tronics Designs Inc., IDEV Technologies Inc., IG Innovations Limited, IMTC Finance B.V., IMTC Holdings B.V., IMTC Technologies Inc., Ibis Biosciences LLC, Igloo Zone Chile S.A., Igloo Zone S.L., Inmobiliaria Naknek S.A.C., Innovacon Inc., Instant Tech Subsidiary Acquisition Inc., Instant Technologies Inc., Instituto de Criopreservacion de Chile S.A., Integrated Vascular Systems Inc., Inverness Canadian Acquisition Corporation, Inverness Medical (Beijing) Co. Ltd., Inverness Medical Innovations Australia Pty Ltd., Inverness Medical Innovations Hong Kong Limited, Inverness Medical Innovations SK LLC, Inverness Medical Investments LLC, Inverness Medical LLC, Inverness Medical Shimla Private Limited, Inversiones K2 SpA, Inversiones Komodo S.R.L., Ionian Technologies LLC, Irvine Biomedical Inc., Kalila Medical, Kangshenyunga S.A., Knoll UK Investments Unlimited, LLC VeroInPharm, Laboratoires Fournier S.A.S., Laboratorio Franco Colombiano Lafrancol S.A.S., Laboratorio Franco Colombiano del Ecuador S.A., Laboratorio Internacional Argentino S.A., Laboratorio Synthesis S.A.S., Laboratorios Lafi Limitada, Laboratorios Naturmedik S.A.S., Laboratorios Pauly Pharmaceutical S.A.S., Laboratorios Recalcine S.A., Laboratorios Transpharm S.A., Laboratory Specialists of America Inc., Lafrancol Dominicana S.A.S., Lafrancol Guatemala S.A. Sociedad Anonima, Lafrancol Internacional S.A.S, Lafrancol Peru S.R.L, Lake Forest Investments LLC, Lightlab Imaging Inc., Limited Liability Company Abbott Laboratories, Limited Liability Company Abbott Ukraine, Limited Liability Company VEROPHARM, Lung Fung Hong (China) Limited, Mansbridge Pharmaceuticals Limited, MediGuide LLC, MediGuide Ltd., Medscreen Holdings Limited, Metropolitana Farmaceutica S.A., Midwest Properties LLC, Murex Argentina S.A., Murex Biotech Limited, Murex Biotech South Africa, Murex Diagnostics Inc., Murex Diagnostics International Inc., Natural Supplement Association LLC, Negocios Denia Sociedad Anonima, Neosalud S.A.C., Nether Pharma N.P. C.V., NeuroTherm LLC, Normann Pharma-Handels GmbH, North Shore Properties Inc., Novamedi S.A., Novasalud.com S.A., Nutravida S.A., OJSC Voronezhkhimpharm, Omnilab Iberia Sociedad Limitada, OptiMedica, Orgenics France SAS, Orgenics International Holdings B.V., Orgenics Ltd., PBM-Selfcare LLC, PDD II LLC, PDD LLC, PT Alere Health, PT. Abbott Indonesia, PT. Abbott Products Indonesia, Pacesetter Inc., Pantech (RF) (PTY) LTD, Pembrooke Occupational Health Inc., Penagos S.A., Pharma International Sociedad Anonima, Pharmaceutical Technologies (Pharmatech) S.A., Pharmatech Boliviana S.A., Polygon Labs S.A., Quality Assured Services Inc., RF Medical Holdings LLC, RTL Holdings Inc., Ramses Business Corp., Recben Xenerics Farmaceutica Limitada, Redwood Toxicology Laboratory Inc., Rich Horizons International Limited, SC VEROPHARM, SJ Medical Mexico S de R.L. de C.V., SJM International Inc., SJM Thunder Holding Company, SPDH Inc., Saboya Enterprises Corporation, Salviac Limited, Scanax AS, Sealing Solutions Inc., Selfcare Technology Inc., Shandong Abbott Dairy Product Co. Ltd., Shanghai Abbott Medical Devices Science and Technology Co. Ltd., Shanghai Abbott Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd., Shanghai Si Fa Pharmaceutical Company Limited, Sinensix & Co., Spinal Modulation LLC, St. Jude Medical, St. Jude Medical AB, St. Jude Medical ATG Inc., St. Jude Medical Argentina S.A., St. Jude Medical Asia Pacific Holdings GK, St. Jude Medical Atrial Fibrillation Division Inc., St. Jude Medical Brasil Ltda., St. Jude Medical Business Services Inc., St. Jude Medical Cardiology Division Inc., St. Jude Medical Colombia Ltda., St. Jude Medical Coordination Center, St. Jude Medical Costa Rica Limitada, St. Jude Medical Europe Inc., St. Jude Medical Export Ges.m.b.H., St. Jude Medical GVA Sarl, St. Jude Medical Holdings B.V., St. Jude Medical India Private Limited, St. Jude Medical International Holding, St. Jude Medical LLC, St. Jude Medical Luxembourg, St. Jude Medical Luxembourg Holdings II, St. Jude Medical Luxembourg Holdings NT, St. Jude Medical Luxembourg Holdings SMI S.a r.l., St. Jude Medical Luxembourg Holdings TC S.a r.l., St. Jude Medical Mexico Business Services S. de R.L. de C.V., St. Jude Medical Middle East DMCC, St. Jude Medical Operations (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd., St. Jude Medical Puerto Rico LLC, St. Jude Medical S.C. Inc., St. Jude Medical Systems AB, St. Jude Medical Turkey Medikal Urunler Ticaret Limited Sirketi, Standard Diagnostics Inc., Standing Stone LLC, Swan-Myers Incorporated, TC1 LLC, Tendyne Holdings Inc., Tendyne Medical Inc., Thoratec Delaware LLC, Thoratec Europe Limited, Thoratec LLC, Thoratec Switzerland GmbH, Tobal Products Incorporated, Topera GmbH in Liquidation, Topera Inc., Tremora S.A., Tuenir S.A., TwistDx, UAB Abbott Laboratories, UAB Abbott Medical Lithuania, Union-Madison Realty Company Inc., Unipath Limited (dba Alere International/aka Cranfield), Unipath Management Limited, Unipath Pension Trustee Limited, Veropharm, Veropharm Limited Liability Partnership, Vida Cell Inversiones S.A., Vida Cell S.A., Vivalsol, W&R Pharma Handels GmbH, Western Pharmaceuticals S.A., X Technologies Inc., Yissum Holding Limited, ZonePerfect Nutrition Company, eScreen Canada ULC, eScreen Inc., ( ), and Abbott Laboratories Baltics. The 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 LETTER TO THE EDITOR: Infrastructure is a bridge to progress for all Ingredion, Inc. manufactures and sells sweetener, starches, nutrition ingredients, and biomaterial solutions derived from the wet milling and processing of corn and other starch based materials. Its activities include turning corn, tapioca, potatoes and other vegetables and fruits into value added ingredients and biomaterials for the food, beverage, paper and corrugating, brewing, and other industries. The firm operates through the following geographical segments: North America, South America, Asia-Pacific and Europe, Middle East, and Africa (EMEA). The North America segment includes businesses in the United States, Mexico, and Canada. The South America segment involves businesses in Brazil, the Southern Cone of South America (which includes Argentina, Peru, Chile, and Uruguay), Colombia, and Ecuador. The Asia-Pacific segment pertains businesses in South Korea, Thailand, China, Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Indonesia, Singapore, the Philippines, Malaysia, India, and Vietnam. The EMEA segment focuses businesses in Pakistan, Germany, the United Kingdom and South Africa. The company was founded in 1906 and is headquartered in Westchester, IL. Read More iShares S&P SmallCap 600 ETF's stock was trading at $62.31 on March 11th, 2020 when Coronavirus (COVID-19) reached pandemic status according to the World Health Organization. Since then, IJR shares have increased by 81.9% and is now trading at $113.33. View which stocks have been most impacted by COVID-19. iShares Europe ETF's stock was trading at $37.19 on March 11th, 2020 when COVID-19 reached pandemic status according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Since then, IEV shares have increased by 45.1% and is now trading at $53.95. View which stocks have been most impacted by COVID-19. iShares MSCI United Kingdom ETF's stock was trading at $25.60 on March 11th, 2020 when COVID-19 reached pandemic status according to the World Health Organization. Since then, EWU stock has increased by 28.5% and is now trading at $32.90. View which stocks have been most impacted by COVID-19. iShares MSCI EAFE ETF's stock was trading at $56.05 on March 11th, 2020 when COVID-19 reached pandemic status according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Since then, EFA shares have increased by 40.1% and is now trading at $78.51. View which stocks have been most impacted by COVID-19. The following companies are subsidiares of Carnival Co. &: 1972 Productions Inc., 6348 Equipment LLC, A.C.N. 098 290 834 Pty. Ltd., A.J. Juneau Dock LLC, AIDA Kundencenter GmbH, Adventure Island Ltd., Air-Sea Holiday GmbH, Alaska Hotel Properties LLC, Barcelona Cruise Terminal SLU, Bay Island Cruise Port S.A., Belize Cruise Terminal Limited, CC U.S. Ventures Inc., CCL Gifts LLC, CSSC Carnival Italy Cruise Investment S.r.L, Carnival (UK) Limited, Carnival Bahamas FC Limited, Carnival Bahamas Holdings Limited, Carnival Corporation & plc Asia Pte. Ltd., Carnival Corporation Hong Kong Limited, Carnival Corporation Korea Ltd., Carnival Corporation Ports Group Japan KK, Carnival Finance LLC, Carnival Grand Bahama Investment Limited, Carnival Investments Limited, Carnival Japan Inc., Carnival License Holdings Limited, Carnival Maritime GmbH, Carnival North America LLC, Carnival Port Holdings Limited, Carnival Ports Inc., Carnival Support Services India Private Limited, Carnival Technical Services (UK) Limited, Carnival Technical Services Finland Limited, Carnival Technical Services GmbH, Carnival Technical Services Inc., Carnival Vanuatu Limited, Costa Crociere PTE Ltd., Costa Crociere S.p.A., Costa Cruceros S.A., Costa Cruise Lines Inc., Costa Cruise Lines UK Limited, Costa Cruises Shipping Services (Shanghai) Company Limited, Costa Cruises Travel Agency (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Costa Cruzeiros Agencia Maritima e Turismo Ltda., Costa Group Digital & Strategic Services GmbH, Costa International B.V., Costa Kreuzfahrten GmbH, Cozumel Cruise Terminal S.A. de C.V., Creative Travel Lab Ltd., Cruise Ships Catering & Services International N.V., Cruise Terminal Services S.A. de C.V., Cruiseport Curacao C.V., D.R. Cruise Port Ltd., Ecospray Technologies S.r.L., F.P.M. SAS, F.P.P. SAS, Fleet Maritime Services (Bermuda) Limited, Fleet Maritime Services Holdings (Bermuda) Limited, Fleet Maritime Services International Limited, GXI LLC, Gibs Inc., Global Experience Innovators Inc., Global Fine Arts Inc., Global Shipping Service (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Grand Cruise Shipping Unipessoal LdA, Grand Turk Cruise Center Ltd., HAL Antillen N.V., HAL Beheer B.V., HAL Cruises Limited, HAL Maritime Ltd., HAL Nederland N.V., HAL Properties Limited, HAL Services B.V., HSE Hamburg School of Entertainment GmbH, Holding Division Iberocruceros SLU, Holland America Line Inc., Holland America Line N.V., Holland America Line Paymaster of Washington LLC, Holland America Line U.S.A. Inc., Ibero Cruzeiros Ltda., Iberocruceros SLU, Information Assistance Corporation, International Cruise Services S.A. de C.V., International Leisure Travel Inc., International Maritime Recruitment Agency S.A. de C.V., Milestone N.V., Navitrans S.R.L., Ocean Bahamas Innovation Ltd., Ocean Medallion Fulfillment Ltd., Operadora Catalina S.r.L., P&O Princess American Holdings, P&O Princess Cruises International Limited, P&O Princess Cruises Pension Trustee Limited, P&O Properties (California) Inc., P&O Travel Limited, Prestige Cruises Management S.A.M., Prestige Cruises N.V., Princess Bermuda Holdings Ltd., Princess Cays Ltd., Princess Cruise Corporation Inc., Princess Cruise Lines Ltd., Princess Cruises and Tours Inc., Princess U.S. Holdings Inc., RCT Maintenance & Related Services S.A., RCT Pilots & Related Services S.A., RCT Security & Related Services S.A., Roatan Cruise Terminal S.A. de C.V., Royal Hyway Tours Inc., Santa Cruz Terminal S.L., SeaVacations Limited, SeaVacations UK Limited, Seabourn Cruise Line Limited, Shanghai Coast Cruise Consulting Co. Lda, Ship Care (Bahamas) Limited, Sitmar Cruises Inc., Spanish Cruise Services N.V., Sunshine Shipping Corporation Ltd., T&T International Inc., Tour Alaska LLC, Transnational Services Corporation, Trident Insurance Company Ltd., Westmark Hotels Inc., Westmark Hotels of Canada Ltd., Westours Motor Coaches LLC, Wind Surf Limited, and World Leading Cruise Management (Shanghai) Co. Ltd.. iShares MSCI China Small-Cap ETF's stock was trading at $37.69 on March 11th, 2020 when Coronavirus reached pandemic status according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Since then, ECNS shares have increased by 24.5% and is now trading at $46.93. View which stocks have been most impacted by COVID-19. The following companies are subsidiares of Thermo Fisher Scientific: 236 Perinton Parkway LLC, 27 Forge Parkway LLC, ABR--Affinity BioReagents, ACI Holdings Inc., ARG Services LLC, ASPEX Corporation, Abgene Inc., Abgene Limited, Acoustic Cytometry Systems Inc., AcroMetrix LLC, Acros Organics B.V.B.A., Advanced Biotechnologies Limited, Advanced Scientifics (ASI), Advanced Scientifics Inc., Advanced Scientifics International Inc., Affymetrix Biotech Participacoes Ltda., Affymetrix Biotech Shanghai Ltd, Affymetrix Inc, Affymetrix Japan K.K., Affymetrix Pte Ltd, Affymetrix UK Ltd, Afora S.A.U., Ahura Scientific, Alchematrix Inc., Alchematrix LLC, Alfa Aesar, Alfa Aesar (China) Chemical Co. Ltd., Alfa Aesar (Hong Kong) Limited, Allergon AB, Alphine Mountain Limited, Ambion Inc., Apogent Denmark ApS, Apogent Finance Company, Apogent Holding Company, Apogent Technologies Inc., Apogent Transition Corp., Apogent U.K. Limited, App-Tek International Pty Ltd, Applied Biosystems B.V., Applied Biosystems Finance B.V., Applied Biosystems International Inc., Applied Biosystems LLC, Applied Biosystems Taiwan LLC, Applied Biosystems Trading (Shanghai) Company Ltd., Applied Biosystems de Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., Applied Scientific Corporation, Avances Cientificos de Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., Avocado Research Chemicals Limited, B.R.A.H.M.S. Biotech GmbH, B.R.A.H.M.S. GmbH, B.R.A.H.M.S. UK Ltd, BAC BV, BAC IP BV, Barnstead Thermolyne LLC, Beijing Phadia Diagnostics Co Ltd, Bender MedSystems GmbH, BioTrove Corporation, BioTrove International Inc., Bioanalysis Labsystems S.A., Biochemical Sciences LLC, Biolab, BmT GmbH Laborprodukte, Bonsai Tecnologies - Sistemas para Biotecnologia e Industria Unipessoal Lda, Brammer Bio, Bumi-Sans Sendirian Berhad, CAC Limited, CB Diagnostics AB, CB Diagnostics Holding AB, CEPH International Corporation, CHK Holdings Inc., CRS Robotics, CTPS LLC, Capitol Scientific Products Inc., Capitol Vial Inc., Cellomics Inc., CellzDirect Inc., Cenduit GmbH, Cenduit LLC, Cezanne S.A.S., Chase Scientific Glass Inc., Chromacol Limited, Clintrak, Clintrak Clinical Labeling Services LLC, Clintrak Pharmaceutical Services LLC, Cohesive Technologies (UK) Limited, Cohesive Technologies Inc., Columbia Diagnostics Inc., Compendia Bioscience Inc., Comtest Limited, Consolidated Technologies Inc., Consultores Fisher Scientific Chile Ltd, Core Informatics, Core Informatics LLC, Core Informatics UK Ltd., D-finitive Technologies Inc., DCG Systems B.V., DCG Systems C.V., DCG Systems G.K., DCG Systems GmbH, DCG Systems Korea Ltd., DCG Systems LLC, DPI Newco LLC, DSM Pharmaceutical Products Inc., Dharmacon, Diagnostix Ltd., Dionex (China) Analytical Ltd, Dionex (Switzerland) AG, Dionex (UK) Limited, Dionex Austria GmbH, Dionex Benelux B.V., Dionex Brasil Instrumentos Cientificos Ltda, Dionex Canada Ltd., Dionex China Limited, Dionex Corporation, Dionex Denmark A/S, Dionex Holding GmbH, Dionex I LLC, Dionex Pty Ltd., Dionex S.A., Dionex S.p.A., Dionex Singapore Pte Ltd., Dionex Softron GmbH, Dionex Sweden AB, Distribution Solutions International Inc., Doe & Ingalls Investors Inc., Doe & Ingalls Limited, Doe & Ingalls Management LLC, Doe & Ingalls Properties II LLC, Doe & Ingalls Properties LLC, Doe & Ingalls of California Operating LLC, Doe & Ingalls of Florida Operating LLC, Doe & Ingalls of Maryland Operating LLC, Doe & Ingalls of Massachusetts Operating LLC, Doe & Ingalls of North Carolina Operating LLC, Doublecape Holding Limited, Doublecape Limited, Drakeside Real Estate Holding Company LLC, Duke Scientific Corporation, Dynal Biotech Beijing Limited, EGS Gauging Ltd., EGS Gauging Technical Services Company, EP Scientific Products LLC, Ecochem N.V., EnviroEquip Pty Ltd, Epsom Glass Industries Limited, Equibio Limited, Erie Electroverre S.A., Erie Finance Limited, Erie LP Holding LLC, Erie Scientific Company of Puerto Rico, Erie Scientific Hungary Kft, Erie Scientific LLC, Erie U.K. Limited, Erie UK 1 Limited, Erie UK 2 Limited, Erie UK Holding Company, Erie UK Senior Holding Limited, European Laboratory Holdings Limited, Eutech Instruments Europe B.V., Eutech Instruments Pte Ltd., Eutech Instruments Sdn Bhd, Ever Ready Thermometer Co. Inc., FEI Asia Pacific Co. Ltd., FEI Australia Pty Ltd, FEI CPD B.V., FEI Company, FEI Company Japan Ltd., FEI Company of USA (S.E.A.) Pte Ltd., FEI Czech Republic s.r.o., FEI Deutschland GmbH, FEI EFA Inc., FEI EFA International Pte. Ltd., FEI Electron Optics B.V., FEI Electron Optics International B.V., FEI Europe B.V., FEI France SAS, FEI Global Holdings C.V., FEI Hong Kong Company Limited, FEI Houston Inc., FEI Italia Srl, FEI Korea Ltd., FEI Melbourne Pty Ltd., FEI Microscopy Solutions Ltd, FEI Munich GmbH, FEI Norway Holding AS, FEI SAS, FEI Saudi Arabia LLC, FEI Servicos de Nanotecnologia Ltda., FEI Technologies Inc., FEI Technology de Mexico S.A. de C.V., FEI Trading (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., FEI Trondheim AS, FEI UK Ltd., FHP LLC, FRC Holding Inc. V, FS (Barbados) Capital Holdings Ltd., FS Casa Rocas Holdings LLC, FS Mexicana Holdings LLC, FSI Receivables Company LLC, FSII Sweden Holdings AB, FSII Sweden Holdings I AB, FSIR Holdings (UK) Limited, FSIR Holdings (US) Inc., FSUK Holdings Limited, FSWH Company LLC, FSWH II C.V., FSWH International Holdings LLC, Fermentas China Co. Ltd, Fermentas Inc., Fermentas International, Fermentas Sweden AB, Fermentas UK Limited, Fiberlite Centrifuge LLC, Finesse Scientific Equipment (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Finesse Solutions AG, Finesse Solutions Inc., Finnzymes Oy, Fisher Alder S. de R.L. de C.V., Fisher Asia Manufacturing Ventures Inc., Fisher Bermuda Holdings Limited, Fisher BioImage ApS, Fisher BioPharma Services (India) Private Limited, Fisher BioSciences Japan G.K., Fisher BioServices Inc., Fisher Bioblock Holding II SNC, Fisher CLP Holding Limited Partnership, Fisher Canada Holding ULC 1, Fisher Canada Holding ULC 2, Fisher Canada Holding ULC 3, Fisher Canada Limited Partnership, Fisher Chimica BVBA, Fisher Clinical Logistics LLC, Fisher Clinical Services (Beijing) Co. Ltd., Fisher Clinical Services (Bristol) LLC, Fisher Clinical Services (Colombia) LLC, Fisher Clinical Services (Korea) Co. Ltd, Fisher Clinical Services (Mexico) LLC, Fisher Clinical Services (Peru) LLC, Fisher Clinical Services (Suzhou) Co. Ltd., Fisher Clinical Services Colombia S.A.S., Fisher Clinical Services GmbH, Fisher Clinical Services Inc., Fisher Clinical Services Japan K.K., Fisher Clinical Services Latin America S.R.L., Fisher Clinical Services Limited Liability Company, Fisher Clinical Services Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., Fisher Clinical Services Peru S.R.L, Fisher Clinical Services Pte Ltd., Fisher Clinical Services U.K. Limited, Fisher Emergo B.V., Fisher Germany Holdings GmbH, Fisher Hamilton China Inc., Fisher Hamilton Mexico LLC, Fisher Holdings ApS, Fisher Internet Minority Holdings L.L.C., Fisher Laboratory Products Manufacturing (Shanghai) Co. Ltd, Fisher Luxembourg Danish Holdings SARL, Fisher Manufacturing (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd, Fisher Maybridge Holdings Limited, Fisher Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., Fisher Scientific (Austria) GmbH, Fisher Scientific (Hong Kong) Limited, Fisher Scientific (M) Sdn Bhd, Fisher Scientific (SEA) Pte. Ltd., Fisher Scientific A/S, Fisher Scientific AG, Fisher Scientific Australia Pty Limited, Fisher Scientific Biotech Line ApS, Fisher Scientific Brazil Inc., Fisher Scientific Central America Inc., Fisher Scientific Chile Inc., Fisher Scientific Colombia Inc., Fisher Scientific Company, Fisher Scientific Company L.L.C., Fisher Scientific Costa Rica Sociedad de Responsabilidad Limitada, Fisher Scientific Europe Holdings B.V., Fisher Scientific GTF AB, Fisher Scientific Germany Beteiligungs GmbH, Fisher Scientific GmbH, Fisher Scientific Holding Company LLC, Fisher Scientific Holding HK Limited, Fisher Scientific Holding U.K. Limited, Fisher Scientific Holdings (M) Sdn Bhd, Fisher Scientific Holdings (S) Pte Ltd, Fisher Scientific International LLC, Fisher Scientific Investments (Cayman) Ltd., Fisher Scientific Ireland Investments Unlimited, Fisher Scientific Ireland Limited, Fisher Scientific Japan Ltd., Fisher Scientific Jersey Island Limited, Fisher Scientific Korea Ltd, Fisher Scientific Latin America Inc., Fisher Scientific Luxembourg S.a.r.l., Fisher Scientific Mexicana S. de R.L. de C.V., Fisher Scientific Mexico Inc., Fisher Scientific Middle East and Africa Inc., Fisher Scientific Norway AS, Fisher Scientific Operating Company, Fisher Scientific Oxoid Holdings Ltd., Fisher Scientific Oy, Fisher Scientific Pte. Ltd., Fisher Scientific S.A.S., Fisher Scientific S.L., Fisher Scientific SPRL, Fisher Scientific The Hague I B.V., Fisher Scientific The Hague II B.V., Fisher Scientific The Hague III B.V., Fisher Scientific The Hague IV B.V., Fisher Scientific The Hague V B.V., Fisher Scientific U.K. Limited, Fisher Scientific UK Holding Company 2, Fisher Scientific UK Holding Company Limited, Fisher Scientific Unipessoal Lda., Fisher Scientific Venezuela Inc., Fisher Scientific Worldwide (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Fisher Scientific Worldwide Holdings I C.V., Fisher Scientific Worldwide Inc., Fisher Scientific de Mexico S.A., Fisher Scientific of the Netherlands B.V., Fisher Scientific spol. S.r.o, Fisher Servicios Clinicos (Chile) LLC, Fisher Servicios Clinicos Chile Ltda, Fisher WWD Holding L.L.C., Fisher Worldwide Distribution SPV, Fisher Worldwide Gene Distribution SPV, Flux Instruments, Fuji Partnership, G & M Procter Limited, G V Instruments Limited, GV Instruments Canada Ltd., GV Instruments Inc, Gatan Inc, General Scientific Company Sdn Bhd (M), Genomed molekularbiologische und diagnostische Produkte GmbH, Gerhard Menzel B.V. & Co. KG, Gold Cattle Standard Testing Labs Inc., Golden West Indemnity Company Limited, Goring Kerr Detection Limited, Greenville Service Company Inc., HENO GmbH i.L., Hangar 215 Inc., Helmet Securities Limited, Henogen, HighChem, HyClone International Trade (Tianjin) Co. Ltd, Hybaid Limited, I.Q. (BIO) Limited, IDnostics AG, ILS Laboratories Scandinavia AB, Inel Inc., Inel SAS, InnaPhase Inc., InnaPhase Limited, IntegenX, Intrinsic BioProbes Inc., Intrinsic Bioprobes Inc., Invitrogen (Shanghai) Investment Co. Ltd., Invitrogen Argentina SA, Invitrogen BioServices India Private Limited, Invitrogen Europe Limited, Invitrogen Finance Corp., Invitrogen Holdings LLC, Invitrogen Holdings Ltd., Invitrogen Hong Kong Limited, Invitrogen IP Holdings Inc., Invitrogen Trading (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Ion Torrent Systems Inc., Ionalytics Corporation, JSC Thermo Fisher Scientific, Jouan LLC, Jouan Limited, Jouan SA, Kendro Containment & Services Limited, Kendro Laboratory Products Ltd, Kettlebrook Insurance Co. ltd., Keystone Scientific, KonTEM GmbH, Kyle Jordan Investments LLC, LIFE TECHNOLOGIES CORPORATION, LTC Tech South Africa PTY Ltd., La-Pha-Pack GmbH, Lab Vision (UK) Limited, Lab Vision Corporation, Lab-Chrom-Pack LLC, Lab-Line Instruments Inc., Labomex MBP S. de R. L. De C.V., Laboratoire Service International - L.S.I, Laboratory Management Systems Inc., Laboratory Specialties Proprietary Ltd., LambTrack Limited, Laser Analytical Systems Inc., Liberty Lane Investment LLC, Liberty Lane Real Estate Holding Company LLC, Life Sciences International (Poland) SP z O.O, Life Sciences International Holdings BV, Life Sciences International LLC, Life Sciences International Limited, Life Technologies AS, Life Technologies Australia PTY Ltd., Life Technologies BPD AB, Life Technologies BPD UK Limited, Life Technologies Brasil Comercio e Industria de Produtos para Biotecnologia Ltda, Life Technologies Chile SpA, Life Technologies Clinical Services Lab Inc., Life Technologies Co. Ltd., Life Technologies Czech Republic s.r.o., Life Technologies DaAn Diagnostic (Guangzhou) Co. Ltd., Life Technologies Europe B.V., Life Technologies Finance Ltd., Life Technologies Finland Oy, Life Technologies GmbH, Life Technologies Holdings PTE Ltd., Life Technologies Inc., Life Technologies International B.V., Life Technologies Japan Ltd., Life Technologies Korea LLC, Life Technologies Limited, Life Technologies Magyarorszag Kft, Life Technologies New Zealand Ltd., Life Technologies Norway Investments US LLC, Life Technologies Polska Sp z.o.o., Life Technologies SA, Life Technologies SAS, Life Technologies s.r.o, Linkage Biosciences Inc., Linkage Biosciences S.a.r.l., Loftus Furnace Company, Lomb Scientific, Lomb Scientific (Aust) Pty Limited, MTI-GlobalStem, Marketbase International Limited, Matrix MicroScience Inc., Matrix MicroScience Ltd., Matrix Technologies Corporation Limited, Matrix Technologies LLC, Maybridge Chemical Company Limited, Maybridge Chemical Holdings Limited, Maybridge Limited, Medical Analysis Systems Inc., Medical Analysis Systems International Inc., Medical Diagnostics Systems Inc., Metavac LLC, Microgenics Corporation, Microgenics Diagnostics Pty Limited, Microgenics GmbH, Microm International GmbH, Microm Laborgerate S.L.U, Molecular BioProducts Inc., Molecular Probes Inc., Molecular Transfer Inc., NAPCO Inc., NERL Diagnostics LLC, NOVODIRECT GmbH Labor- und Industrie- Megerate, Nalge (Europe) Limited, Nalge Nunc International (Monterrey) LLC, Nalge Nunc International Corporation, Nanjing WeiKangLe Trading Industrial Co Ltd, NanoDrop Technologies LLC, National Scientific Company, Navaho Acquisition Corp., Neomarkers Inc., New FS Holdings Inc., NewcoGen PE LLC, Nihon Dynal K.K., Niton Asia Limited, NovaWave Technologies Inc., Nunc A/S, ONIX Systems Inc., OXOID CZ s.r.o., Odyssey Holdings Corporation, Odyssey Luxembourg Holdings S.a r.l., Odyssey Luxembourg IP Holdings 1 S.a r.l., Odyssey Luxembourg IP Holdings 2 S.a r.l., Odyssey Venture Corporation, Omega Data Systems, One Lambda Inc, Onix Holdings Limited, Orme Scientific Limited, Owl Separation Systems LLC, Oxoid (ELY) Limited, Oxoid 2000 Limited, Oxoid AS, Oxoid Australia Pty. Limited, Oxoid Company, Oxoid Deutschland GmbH, Oxoid Holding SAS, Oxoid Holdings Limited, Oxoid Inc., Oxoid International Limited, Oxoid Investments GmbH, Oxoid Limited, Oxoid N.V., Oxoid New Zealand Limited, Oxoid Pension Trustees Limited, Oxoid Senior Holdings Limited, Oxoid UKH LLC, PAX - DSI Acquisition LLC, PE AG, Pacific Rim Far East Industries LLC, Pacific Rim Investment LLC, Panomics L.L.C., Panomics S.R.L., Patheon, Patheon API Inc., Patheon API Manufacturing Inc., Patheon API Services Inc., Patheon Austria GmbH & Co KG, Patheon B.V., Patheon Banner U.S. Holdings Inc., Patheon Biologics (NJ) LLC, Patheon Biologics Australia Pty Ltd, Patheon Biologics B.V., Patheon Biologics LLC, Patheon Calculus Merger LLC, Patheon Cooperatief U.A., Patheon Development Services Inc., Patheon Finance LLC, Patheon France SAS, Patheon Holdings B.V., Patheon Holdings I B.V., Patheon Holdings II B.V., Patheon Holdings SAS, Patheon I B.V., Patheon I Holding GmbH, Patheon Inc., Patheon International AG, Patheon Italia S.p.A., Patheon KK, Patheon Life Science Products International GmbH, Patheon Manufacturing Services LLC, Patheon Pharmaceuticals Inc., Patheon Pharmaceuticals Services Inc., Patheon Puerto Rico Acquisitions Corporation, Patheon Puerto Rico Inc., Patheon Regensburg GmbH, Patheon Softgels B.V., Patheon Softgels Inc., Patheon U.S. Holdings Inc., Patheon U.S. Holdings LLC, Patheon UK Limited, Patheon UK Pension Trustees Limited, Pelican Acquisition Corporation, Perbio Science (Canada) Company, Perbio Science AB, Perbio Science BVBA, Perbio Science France SAS, Perbio Science Inc., Perbio Science International Netherlands B.V., Perbio Science Invest AB, Perbio Science Nederland B.V., Perbio Science Projekt AB, Perbio Science Sweden Holdings AB, Perbio Science Switzerland SA, Perbio Science UK Limited, Phadia AB, Phadia Diagnosticos Ltda, Phadia GmbH, Phadia Holding AB, Phadia International Holdings C.V., Phadia Korea Co. Ltd, Phadia Luxembourg Holdings S.a.r.l., Phadia Malta Holdings Limited, Phadia Oy, Phadia Real Property AB, Phadia Sweden AB, Phadia Taiwan Inc., Phadia US Inc., Phadia s.r.o., Pharmacaps Mexicana SA de CV, Phenom-World B.V., Phenom-World Holding B.V, Phenom-World Innovations B.V., Phinotex, Pierce Biotechnology Inc., Pierce Milwaukee Holding Corp., Pierce Milwaukee Inc., Polychromix, Power Sweden Holdings I AB, Power Sweden Holdings II AB, Power Sweden Holdings III Aktiebolag, Princeton Gamma-Tech Instruments LLC, Princeton Security Technologies, Prionics AG, Prionics Asia Ltd., Prionics Deutschland GmbH, Prionics France SAS, Prionics Italia S.r.l., Prionics Lelystad B.V., Prionics USA Inc., Priority Air Express LLC, Priority Air Express Pte. Ltd., Priority Air Express UK Limited, Priority Air Holdings Corp, Priority Solutions International, Promedica Pty Limited, Proxeon, Proxeon Biosystems ApS, Qiagen, REP GBP I-B Blocker Inc., Raymond A Lamb Limited, Remel Europe Limited, Remel Inc., Richard-Allan Scientific Company, Robbins Scientific LLC, Robocon Labor- und Industrieroboter Gesellschaft m.b.H, Rupprecht and Patashnick, Rupprecht and Patashnick (R&P), Russell pH Limited, S.C.I. du 10 rue Dugay Trouin, SCI Inno 92, STC Bio Manufacturing Inc., Samco Scientific (Monterrey) LLC, Samco Scientific LLC, Saroph Sweden AB, Schantz Road LLC, Seradyn Inc., Shanghai Life Technologies Biotechnology Co. Limited, Shanghai Thermo Fisher (C-I) Trading Co. Ltd, Shanghai Thermo Fisher (S) Trading Co. Ltd, Southern Trials (Pty) Ltd., Specialty (SMI) Inc., Spectra-Physics AB, Spectra-Physics Holdings Limited, Spectra-Physics Holdings USA LLC, Spectronex, Staten Island Cogeneration Corporation, Sterilin Limited, Stokes Bio Ltd., Sweden DIA (Sweden) AB, SwissAnalytic Group GmbH, Systems Manufacturing Corporation, TFLP LLC, TFS Breda B.V., TFS LLC, TFS Singapore HK Limited, TFSL Financing GP LLC, TFSL Senior GP Holdings 2 LLC, TK Partnership, TKA Wasseraufbereitungssysteme, TMOI Inc., TPI Real Estate Holdings LLC, TSP Holdings I LLC, TWX LLC, Technology Design Solutions Pty Ltd, Thermedics Detection de Argentina S.R.L, Thermo Allen Coding Limited, Thermo Asset Management Services Inc., Thermo BioAnalysis LLC, Thermo BioAnalysis Limited, Thermo BioSciences Holdings LLC, Thermo CIDTEC, Thermo CRS Holdings Ltd., Thermo CRS Ltd., Thermo Cambridge Limited, Thermo Cayman Holdings Ltd., Thermo Corporation, Thermo DMA Inc., Thermo Detection de Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., Thermo Dutch Holdings Limited Partnership, Thermo EGS Gauging LLC, Thermo Eberline Holdings I LLC, Thermo Eberline Holdings II LLC, Thermo Eberline LLC, Thermo Electron (Calgary) Limited, Thermo Electron (Chile) S.p.A., Thermo Electron (Karlsruhe) GmbH, Thermo Electron (Management Services) Limited, Thermo Electron (Proprietary) Limited, Thermo Electron A/S, Thermo Electron Australia Pty Limited, Thermo Electron Export Inc., Thermo Electron Holdings SAS, Thermo Electron Industries, Thermo Electron LED GmbH, Thermo Electron LED S.A.S., Thermo Electron Limited, Thermo Electron Manufacturing Limited, Thermo Electron Metallurgical Services Inc., Thermo Electron North America LLC, Thermo Electron Pension Trust GmbH, Thermo Electron Puerto Rico Inc., Thermo Electron SAS, Thermo Electron Scientific Instruments LLC, Thermo Electron Sweden AB, Thermo Electron Sweden Forvaltning AB, Thermo Electron Weighing & Inspection Limited, Thermo Elemental Limited, Thermo Environmental Instruments LLC, Thermo Fast U.K. Limited, Thermo Finland Holdings LLC, Thermo Finland Holdings MT1 B.V., Thermo Finland Holdings MT2 B.V., Thermo Finnigan LLC, Thermo Finnigan Limited, Thermo Fisher (CN) Luxembourg Holding S.a.r.l., Thermo Fisher (CN) Luxembourg S.a.r.l., Thermo Fisher (CN) Malta Holdings Limited, Thermo Fisher (CN-I) Luxembourg LLC, Thermo Fisher (CN-II) Luxembourg LLC, Thermo Fisher (Cayman) Holdings I Ltd., Thermo Fisher (Cayman) Holdings II Ltd., Thermo Fisher (Finland Holdings 2) LLC, Thermo Fisher (Finland Holdings) Limited Partnership, Thermo Fisher (Gibraltar) II Limited, Thermo Fisher (Gibraltar) Limited, Thermo Fisher (Heysham) Limited, Thermo Fisher (Kandel) GmbH, Thermo Fisher CHK Holding LLC, Thermo Fisher China Business Trust, Thermo Fisher China Business Trust II, Thermo Fisher Costa Rica Sociedad de Responsabilidad Limitada, Thermo Fisher Cyprus Holdings LLC, Thermo Fisher Detection Mexico LLC, Thermo Fisher Diagnostics (Ireland) Limited, Thermo Fisher Diagnostics AB, Thermo Fisher Diagnostics AG, Thermo Fisher Diagnostics AS, Thermo Fisher Diagnostics Aps, Thermo Fisher Diagnostics Austria GmbH, Thermo Fisher Diagnostics B.V., Thermo Fisher Diagnostics GmbH, Thermo Fisher Diagnostics K.K., Thermo Fisher Diagnostics Limited, Thermo Fisher Diagnostics NV, Thermo Fisher Diagnostics S.L.U., Thermo Fisher Diagnostics S.p.A. , Thermo Fisher Diagnostics SAS, Thermo Fisher Diagnostics Sociedade Unipessoal Lda, Thermo Fisher Eurobonds Ltd., Thermo Fisher Financial Services Inc., Thermo Fisher GP LLC, Thermo Fisher German Holdings LLC, Thermo Fisher Germany B.V., Thermo Fisher India Divestco Private Limited, Thermo Fisher India Holding B.V., Thermo Fisher Insurance Holdings Inc., Thermo Fisher Insurance Holdings LLC, Thermo Fisher Investments (Cayman) Ltd., Thermo Fisher Israel Ltd., Thermo Fisher Production et Services SAS, Thermo Fisher Project Cyprus LLC, Thermo Fisher Re Ltd., Thermo Fisher Scientific (Asheville) LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific (Australia) C.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific (Barbados) Holdings Ltd., Thermo Fisher Scientific (Breda) Holding BV, Thermo Fisher Scientific (Bremen) GmbH, Thermo Fisher Scientific (CN) Limited Partnership, Thermo Fisher Scientific (China) Co. 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De C.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific (NK) LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific (PN) Austria Holding GmbH, Thermo Fisher Scientific (PN) UK LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific (PN) UK Limited Partnership, Thermo Fisher Scientific (PN-I) SRL, Thermo Fisher Scientific (PN-II) SRL, Thermo Fisher Scientific (PN1) UK Ltd, Thermo Fisher Scientific (Panama) B.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific (Panama) Dutch LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific (Praha) s.r.o., Thermo Fisher Scientific (Real Estate 1) GmbH & Co. KG, Thermo Fisher Scientific (Real Estate 1) S.a.r.l., Thermo Fisher Scientific (Schweiz) AG, Thermo Fisher Scientific (Shanghai) Instruments Co. Ltd., Thermo Fisher Scientific (Shanghai) Management Co. Ltd., Thermo Fisher Scientific (Suzhou) Instruments Co. Ltd, Thermo Fisher Scientific (Thailand) Co. Ltd., Thermo Fisher Scientific AL-1 LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific AU C.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific AU II Limited, Thermo Fisher Scientific AU LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific AU Limited, Thermo Fisher Scientific Africa Proprietary Ltd, Thermo Fisher Scientific Aquasensors LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific Australia Pty Ltd, Thermo Fisher Scientific B.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific B.V.B.A., Thermo Fisher Scientific BHK (I) Limited, Thermo Fisher Scientific BHK (II) Limited, Thermo Fisher Scientific Baltics UAB, Thermo Fisher Scientific Beteiligungsverwaltungs GmbH, Thermo Fisher Scientific Biosciences Corp., Thermo Fisher Scientific Brahms LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific Brasil Instrumentos de Processo Ltda., Thermo Fisher Scientific Brasil Servicos de Logistica Ltda, Thermo Fisher Scientific C.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific Cayman Investments LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific Chemicals Inc., Thermo Fisher Scientific China (C-I) LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific China (S) LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific China Holdings I B.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific China Holdings II B.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific China Holdings III B.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific China Holdings IV B.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific Chromatography Holdings Aps, Thermo Fisher Scientific Chromatography Holdings S.a r.l., Thermo Fisher Scientific Cyprus I C.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific Cyprus I Ltd, Thermo Fisher Scientific Cyprus II C.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific Cyprus II Ltd, Thermo Fisher Scientific Cyprus III C.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific Cyprus III Ltd, Thermo Fisher Scientific Cyprus IV C.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific Cyprus V C.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific Denmark Senior Holdings ApS, Thermo Fisher Scientific Erie 1 Financing (Barbados) SRL, Thermo Fisher Scientific Erie Financing (Barbados) SRL, Thermo Fisher Scientific Erie Financing S.a r.l, Thermo Fisher Scientific Europe GmbH, Thermo Fisher Scientific FLC B.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific FLC Finance C.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific FLC II B.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific FLC LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific FSIR Financing (Barbados) SRL, Thermo Fisher Scientific FSIR Financing S.a.r.l, Thermo Fisher Scientific FSUKHCO Financing (Barbados) SRL, Thermo Fisher Scientific Falcon Senior Holdings Inc., Thermo Fisher Scientific Finance Company BV, Thermo Fisher Scientific GENEART GmbH, Thermo Fisher Scientific Germany BV & Co. KG, Thermo Fisher Scientific GmbH, Thermo Fisher Scientific HR Services Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific Holdings (Cayman) I, Thermo Fisher Scientific Holdings (Cayman) II , Thermo Fisher Scientific Holdings Europe Limited, Thermo Fisher Scientific IT Services GmbH, Thermo Fisher Scientific India Holding LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific India Pvt Ltd, Thermo Fisher Scientific Investments (Luxembourg) S.a.r.l., Thermo Fisher Scientific Investments (Malta) Limited, Thermo Fisher Scientific Investments (Sweden) LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific Investments (Sweden) S.a.r.l., Thermo Fisher Scientific Investments Malta (Sweden Financing) Limited, Thermo Fisher Scientific Invitrogen Financing (Barbados) SRL, Thermo Fisher Scientific Japan Holdings I B.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific Japan Holdings II B.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific Japan Holdings III B.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific K.K., Thermo Fisher Scientific Korea Ltd., Thermo Fisher Scientific LSI Financing (Barbados) SRL, Thermo Fisher Scientific Life CV GP Holdings II LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific Life CV GP Holdings LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Enterprises C.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Enterprises GP LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Financing (Barbados) SRL, Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Financing (Cayman), Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Financing C.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Financing Limited, Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Holdings I C.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Holdings II C.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Holdings III C.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Holdings Limited, Thermo Fisher Scientific Life International GP Holdings LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific Life International Holdings I C.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific Life International Holdings II C.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Investments C.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Investments GP LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Investments I S.a.r.l., Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Investments II S.a r.l., Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Investments III S.a.r.l., Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Investments IV S.a.r.l, Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Investments Malta Holding I LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Investments Malta Holding II LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Investments Malta I Limited, Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Investments Malta II Limited, Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Investments US Financing I LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Investments US Financing II LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific Life NL Holdings GP LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Netherlands Holding C.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Senior GP Holdings II LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Senior GP Holdings LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Senior Holdings C.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Senior Holdings II C.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Senior Holdings Inc., Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Switzerland Holdings GP LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Tech Korea Holdings LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Technologies Enterprise Holding Limited, Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Technologies Investment I LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Technologies Investment II LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Technologies Investment UK I Limited, Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Technologies Investment UK II Limited, Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Technologies Investments Holding LP, Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Technologies Israel Investment I Limited, Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Technologies Israel Investment II Limited, Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Technologies Luxembourg Holding LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific Luxembourg Enterprise Holdings S.a r.l., Thermo Fisher Scientific Luxembourg German Holdings S.a.r.l., Thermo Fisher Scientific Luxembourg Life Technologies UK Holding S.a r.l, Thermo Fisher Scientific Luxembourg Sweden Holdings I S.a r.l, Thermo Fisher Scientific Luxembourg Sweden Holdings II S.a r.l., Thermo Fisher Scientific Luxembourg Venture Holdings I S.a.r.l., Thermo Fisher Scientific Luxembourg Venture Holdings II S.a.r.l., Thermo Fisher Scientific Malaysia Sdn. Bhd., Thermo Fisher Scientific Malta Holdings LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific Messtechnik GmbH, Thermo Fisher Scientific Mexico City S. de R.L. de C.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific Middle East Holdings Inc., Thermo Fisher Scientific Milano Srl, Thermo Fisher Scientific NHK Limited, Thermo Fisher Scientific New Zealand Holdings, Thermo Fisher Scientific New Zealand Limited, Thermo Fisher Scientific Norway Holdings AS, Thermo Fisher Scientific Norway US Investments LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific Odyssey Financing (Barbados) SRL, Thermo Fisher Scientific Odyssey Holdings Limited, Thermo Fisher Scientific Operating Company LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific Oy, Thermo Fisher Scientific PN2 C.V, Thermo Fisher Scientific PN2 LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific PRB LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific PRB Malta Limited, Thermo Fisher Scientific PRB S.a.r.l., Thermo Fisher Scientific Panama I Cayman Ltd, Thermo Fisher Scientific Peru S.R.L., Thermo Fisher Scientific Pte. Ltd., Thermo Fisher Scientific Re Ltd., Thermo Fisher Scientific SL, Thermo Fisher Scientific Senior Financing LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific Senior Holdings Australia LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific South Africa Proprietary Ltd, Thermo Fisher Scientific SpA, Thermo Fisher Scientific Spectra LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific Spectra Malta Limited, Thermo Fisher Scientific Spectra S.a.r.l., Thermo Fisher Scientific Spectra-Physics Holdings Luxembourg I S.a r.l., Thermo Fisher Scientific Spectra-Physics Holdings Luxembourg II S.a r.l., Thermo Fisher Scientific Spectra-Physics Investments Malta Limited, Thermo Fisher Scientific Switzerland Holdings C.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific TR Limited, Thermo Fisher Scientific Taiwan Co. Ltd., Thermo Fisher Scientific Vermogensverwaltungs GmbH, Thermo Fisher Scientific West Palm Holdings LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific Wissenschaftliche Gerate GmbH, Thermo Fisher Scientific Worldwide Investments (Cayman), Thermo Fisher Scientific eCommerce Solutions LLC , Thermo Fisher Senior Canada Holdings LLC, Thermo Foundation Inc., Thermo Gamma-Metrics Holdings Pty Ltd., Thermo Gamma-Metrics LLC, Thermo Gamma-Metrics Pty Ltd, Thermo Holding European Operations LLC, Thermo Hypersil Ltd, Thermo Hypersil-Keystone LLC, Thermo Informatics Asia Pacific Pty Ltd., Thermo Instrument Controls de Mexico S.A. de C.V., Thermo Kevex X-Ray LLC, Thermo Keytek LLC, Thermo LabSystems Inc., Thermo LabSystems S.A., Thermo Life Science International Trading (Tianjin) Co. Ltd., Thermo Life Sciences AB, Thermo Luxembourg Holding S.a.r.l., Thermo Luxembourg S.a.r.l., Thermo MF Physics LLC, Thermo Measurement Ltd, Thermo Measuretech Canada Inc., Thermo Neslab LLC, Thermo Nicolet Limited, Thermo Onix Limited, Thermo Optek (Australia) Pty Ltd., Thermo Optek Limited, Thermo Optek S.A., Thermo Orion Inc., Thermo Portable Holdings LLC, Thermo Power Corporation, Thermo Process Instruments GP LLC, Thermo Process Instruments L.P., Thermo Projects Limited, Thermo Quest S.A., Thermo Radiometrie Limited, Thermo Ramsey Italia S.r.l., Thermo Ramsey LLC, Thermo Ramsey S.A., Thermo Re Ltd., Thermo Scientific Microbiology Pte Ltd., Thermo Scientific Microbiology Sdn Bhd, Thermo Scientific Portable Analytical Instruments Inc., Thermo Scientific Services Inc., Thermo Securities Corporation, Thermo Sentron Canada Inc., Thermo Sentron Limited, Thermo Shandon Inc., Thermo Shandon Limited, Thermo Suomi Holding B.V., Thermo TLH (UK) Limited, Thermo TLH L.P., Thermo Trace Pty Ltd., Thermo-Fisher Biochemical Product (Beijing) Co. Ltd., ThermoLase LLC, ThermoSpectra Limited, Trek Diagnostic Systems LLC, Trek Diagnostic Systems Ltd., Trek Holding Company II Ltd., Trek Holding Company Ltd., Trex Medical Corporation, USB Corporation, Union Lab Supplies Limited, United Diagnostics Inc., VG Systems Limited, Westover Scientific Inc., ZAO PE Biosystems, eBioscience GmbH, eBioscience Ltd, eBioscience SAS, and picoSpin LLC. The Toronto-Dominion Bank, together with its subsidiaries, provides various personal and commercial banking products and services in Canada and the United States. It operates through three segments: Canadian Retail, U.S. Retail, and Wholesale Banking. The company offers personal deposits, such as chequing, savings, and investment products; financing, investment, cash management, international trade, and day-to-day banking services to businesses; and financing options to customers at point of sale for automotive and recreational vehicle purchases through auto dealer network. It also provides credit cards; real estate secured lending; auto finance; consumer lending; point-of-sale payment solutions for large and small businesses; wealth and asset management products, private banking, investment advisory, and trust services to retail and institutional clients; and property and casualty insurance, as well as life and health insurance products. The company also provides capital markets, and corporate and investment banking services, including underwriting and distribution of new debt and equity issues; advice on strategic acquisitions and divestitures; and trading, funding, and investment services to companies, governments, and institutions. It offers its products and services under the TD Bank and America's Most Convenient Bank brand names. The company operates through a network of 1,085 branches, 3,440 automated teller machines, and 1,223 stores, as well as offers telephone, digital, and mobile banking services. The Toronto-Dominion Bank was founded in 1855 and is headquartered in Toronto, Canada. Read More OSRAM Licht AG engages in the manufacturing and sale of lighting products. It operates through the following segments: Opto Semiconductors, Automotive and Digital. The Opto Semiconductors segment manufactures Opto semiconductors. The Automotive segment consists of the original equipment manufacturer business for traditional light sources. The Digital segment encompasses stage, cinema, and studio lighting, and further areas such as smart LED-based plant cultivation systems and lighting solutions for buildings and Digital Lumens. The company's product portfolio includes applications based on semiconductor technology such as infrared or laser lighting which are used in diverse applications ranging from virtual reality, autonomous driving or mobile phones to smart and connected lighting solutions in buildings and for indoor horticulture. OSRAM Licht was founded in June 2012 and is headquartered in Munich, Germany. Read More This weeks Buzz Bites take a closer look at opportunities to break the Ramadan fast with local families, a whiskey distilling experience and some salutes to the nations military members. Breaking the fast together Rumi Forum Charlottesville is inviting everyone to share in the breaking of the daily Ramadan fast at iftar dinners to be presented through June 3. Its an opportunity to learn more about Islam by celebrating with local families, and everyone is welcome. Families who observe Ramadan break their fasts after the sun goes down; these days, sunset is at around 8:15 p.m. The forums home iftar dinner events in host families homes begin at 7:30 p.m. with social time to give everyone time to get acquainted. When you make reservations, select three dates for which youll be available. A Community Iftar Dinner also will be presented at 7:30 p.m. May 25 at The Event Hall on the second floor of 1024 Carrington Place. The dinner is free, but registration is required at cville@rumiforum.org. Spirited experience The vote ends a year of protests, petitions and efforts by citizens and the board to find alternative ways to handle ICE requests. There is no federal law requiring local and regional jails to notify immigrations officials about undocumented aliens upon incarceration, nor is there a state law. While much of the rhetoric focused on voluntary notification at the time of arrest, Jail Superintendent Martin Kumer said Thursday that jailors never worked that way. He said the first notification comes when basic incarceration information is uploaded to National Crime Information Center and other databases. NCIC information includes a variety of data, such as stolen firearms and vehicles and domestic violence, as well as sexual offender lists and a list of persons whose applications to purchase firearms have been denied. According to Kumer, the boards vote means jail staff will continue to fingerprint persons arrested and ask a series of state-mandated questions that include whether they are U.S. citizens and what their country of birth is. A North Carolina man will hold a 17-hour vigil in front of Charlottesvilles statue of Confederate Gen. Robert E. Lee on Thursday while dressed as a Union soldier in an effort to educate others about the Civil War. William Thorpe, the sole orchestrator of the One-Man Stand and founder and director of the University of North Carolina Walk for Health, will finish out a semester-long project inspired by the universitys removal of its Silent Sam monument in Chapel Hill. The statue, erected in 1913, was toppled by protesters in August and then moved by university officials to an undisclosed location. The pedestal was later removed, and the ground where the statue stood was covered up with grass. Thorpe said he began his campaign on Jan. 24 as an effort to both educate the public on what Union soldiers fought for during the Civil War and to advocate for the placement of a statue of a Union soldier in place of Silent Sam. The Union soldier is not getting enough awareness, and I wanted to lobby UNC officials for a replacement statue, he said. Logically, the best replacement would be a Union soldier. Judge Bob Downer Jr. will receive the Gideon Award for his work in criminal justice. According to a news release, the annual award is given by the Citizens Advisory Committee for the Charlottesville-Albemarle Public Defender Office to a community leader whose work plays a critical role in public defense and ensuring equal justice. Downer, who will retire from the Charlottesville General District Court bench at the end of June, is being recognized, in part, for his work applying evidence-based decision-making to criminal justice and for helping to establish the areas Therapeutic Docket as an alternative to jail time for defendants with mental health issues, according to the release. The ceremony will be held at 4 p.m. Monday at CitySpace. Send news tips to news@dailyprogress.com, call (434) 978-7264, tweet us @DailyProgress or send us a Facebook message here. Be the first to know Get local news delivered to your inbox! Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Regional activists have created a fund to help pay bonds and legal expenses for persons detained on immigration holds or going through immigrations hearings. The Cville Immigrant Bond Fund, which officially launched Wednesday, is funded by local church congregations and community members. It will assist families in Charlottesville and Albemarle and Nelson counties, the localities served by the Albemarle-Charlottesville Regional Jail. Fund organizers say legal fees for immigration hearings and Immigrations and Custom Enforcement proceedings can run as high as $5,000. A bond that would get someone out of custody, pending ICE proceedings, averages $16,000, they said. [The] amount must be paid in full to obtain release from detention, said Priscilla Mendenhall, fund founder and a fund board member. The grants and loans provided [by the fund] may not cover all of these expenses, but they provide essential monetary aid and a sense of solidarity to families. Almost a year and a half after local elected officials called for changes to the area tourism bureau, the organization has formally announced its new advertising campaign and logo. The Charlottesville Albemarle Convention and Visitors Bureau hosted a brand launch party Wednesday night to announce its More to C campaign. When we say that theres More to C, theres more to see than wines, weddings and what you saw on the news, said Glen Fellman with Clean, the advertising agency that designed the campaign, at the event. The campaign is designed to promote the food, wine, music and history of Charlottesville and Albemarle County, and will appear locally, as well as in the Washington, D.C., area and in Raleigh, Durham and Chapel Hill in North Carolina. Interim Director Adam Healey said the tourism industry employs more than 6,000 people in the area. Tourism is a net positive for our community, he said. When tourism is successful, it means that our tax burden goes down and the quality of life of our citizens goes up. Sixty-five years ago, the U.S. Supreme Court struck down school segregation in the landmark Brown v. Board of Education case. The unanimous decision, written and delivered by Chief Justice Earl Warren on May 17, 1954, found that "in the field of public education the doctrine of 'separate but equal' has no place. Separate educational facilities are inherently unequal." At the heart of the legal team to overturn school segregation was Oliver W. Hill, the legendary civil rights lawyer. In the early 1950s he helped represent a group of African American students in Prince Edward County who challenged the shoddy conditions at the all-black R.R. Moton High School. That case, Davis v. County School Board of Prince Edward County, Va., wound its way through Virginia's courts and eventually became part of the Brown decision. Hill died at age 100 in 2007. While Hill practiced law in both Richmond and Roanoke, he spent much of his childhood in the Star City. On May 1, in a fitting tribute, Roanoke officially renamed the city's courthouse as the Oliver W. Hill Justice Center. As another large caravan of migrants who plan to enter the U.S. illegally heads toward our southern border, I fail to see any problem with the presidents proposal of transporting those and other illegal immigrants to sanctuary cities across the U.S. In fact, it seems to me to be a win-win situation. It is a win for the sanctuary cities, as the citys elected leaders profess to welcome immigrants and refuse to cooperate with federal officials seeking to take illegal immigrants into custody; such cities sometimes refuse to notify Immigration and Customs Enforcement even if an illegal immigrant is sought for committing a felony. Those leaders were elected by their local populations, so the populace must want illegal immigrants in their communities. It is a win for border cities and states that are flooded with illegal immigrants, as they will be relieved of the costs related to providing for surging illegal populations. Most importantly, it is a huge win for illegal immigrants, as they will be located to communities where they will be provided sanctuary from possible deportation and welcomed to local schools where they will provide diversity. For teens, online bullying worsens sleep and depression Nearly 15 percent of high school students report being bullied online Misol Kwon, first author and doctoral student in the UB School of Nursing Cyber victimization on the internet and social media is a unique form of peer victimization and an emerging mental health concern among teens who are digital natives. BUFFALO, N.Y. Teens who experience cyberbullying are more likely to suffer from poor sleep, which in turn raises levels of depression, found a University at Buffalo study. Although research has examined the relationship between online bullying and depression, the UB study is one of few to explore the connection between cyber victimization and sleep quality. The study surveyed more than 800 adolescents for sleep quality, cyber aggression and depression. The research will be presented by Misol Kwon, first author and doctoral student in the UB School of Nursing, at SLEEP 2019, the 33rd annual meeting of the Associated Professional Sleep Societies in San Antonio, Texas from June 8-12. Cyber victimization on the internet and social media is a unique form of peer victimization and an emerging mental health concern among teens who are digital natives, said Kwon. Understanding these associations supports the need to provide sleep hygiene education and risk prevention and interventions to mistreated kids who show signs and symptoms of depression. Nearly one third of teens have experienced symptoms of depression, which, in addition to changes in sleep pattern, include persistent irritability, anger and social withdrawal, according to the U.S. Office of Adolescent Health. And nearly 15 percent of U.S. high school students report being bullied electronically, says Kwon. At severe levels, depression may lead to disrupted school performance, harmed relationships or suicide. The risks of allowing depression to worsen highlight the need for researchers and clinicians to understand and target sleep quality and other risk factors that have the potential to exacerbate the disorder. The research was supported by a $1.8 million grant from the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism in the National Institutes of Health awarded to Jennifer Livingston, PhD, principal investigator and associate professor in the UB School of Nursing. Additional UB School of Nursing investigators include Suzanne Dickerson, DNS, professor and chair of the Department of Biobehavioral Health and Clinical Sciences; and Eunhee Park, PhD, assistant professor. Young Seo, doctoral candidate in the UB Graduate School of Education, is also an investigator. Robust UN troop levels required to quickly bring civil wars to peaceful resolutions Nepalese peacekeepers arrive in Juba, South Sudan to reinforce the military component of the UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS).Photo: cc UN Photo/Isaac Billy Since the end of the Cold War, U.N. troops have been entering active conflicts, often peacemaking, not peacekeeping. And not all of these operations are created the same in their ability to facilitate faster negotiated settlements. BUFFALO, N.Y. United Nations peacekeeping operations can serve as valuable instruments for reducing the duration of civil wars, but PKOs require robust troop deployments to quickly and effectively move combatants in active conflicts toward negotiated settlements such as cease-fires and peace agreements, according to a new study by a team of University at Buffalo political scientists. While most research on PKOs has measured their influence on maintaining postwar peace, Jacob Kathman and Michelle Benson, both associate professors in UBs Department of Political Science, instead address a largely unexamined dimension: the U.N. peacekeeping operations ability to increase the likelihood of a peaceful conflict resolution. Since the end of the Cold War, U.N. troops have been entering active conflicts, often peacemaking, not peacekeeping, says Benson. And not all of these operations are created the same in their ability to facilitate faster negotiated settlements. Peacekeeping forces in the range of approximately 10,000 troops significantly improve the likelihood of ending hostilities. Failing to meet those numbers will make the effort much less effective. Kathman and Benson used fine-grained monthly data sets built from Kathmans U.N. peacekeeping troop data and the Peace Research Institute Oslos Uppsala Conflict Data Program. The findings appear in the Journal of Conflict Resolution. Civil wars can end in a number of ways, according to Benson. One side can emerge victorious. Violence can subside without a clear victor, but with the underlying cause of the conflict remaining unresolved. Then there are peace agreements and other official ways to end the fighting, such as ceasefires. Thats what we look at in this study: How do you get to a peaceful negotiated settlement and are peacekeepers able to facilitate that, says Benson. We found that the presence of a sufficient number of peacekeepers decreased the time to a peaceful negotiated settlement. The U.N. deploys peacekeeping operations when the permanent members of the Security Council (China, France, the Russian Federation, the United Kingdom and the United States) authorize troop funding, which is then subject to General Assembly approval. The U.N. has no standing army. Member States provide troops for the operation on a voluntary basis. For their study, Kathman and Benson build on previous research on how the U.N. affects civil war. Their new paper has important policy implications that help validate the effectiveness of PKOs and supports the idea that the U.N. should outfit peacekeeping efforts with sufficient troop numbers required to reduce the hostility and intractability of civil conflicts. From prior research on the U.N., we know that U.N. peacekeepers are able to reduce civilian deaths and casualties and sometimes able to reduce the number of battlefield fatalities, says Benson. But what happens if these troops dampen the active fighting to the point that a low-level conflict remains, whats called a hurting stalemate? In the absence of a peaceful resolution, the hurting stalemate could mean a reduction in the immediate number of deaths, but the enduring balance of forces might eventually translate to a high number of deaths in the long term. Thats what we wanted to determine, says Benson. Kathman and Benson theorize that facilitating a security guarantee and separating combatants are among the mechanisms by which the troops are able to facilitate a settlement. With substantial troop deployments, the U.N. can help separate the combatants, assist with disarmament and provide a clear path for the unobstructed flow of information between sides, allowing the warring parties to move more quickly toward settlements. The U.N. is not only able to improve the conflict situation, says Benson. Its able to bring conflicts to a conclusion in a peaceful manner. Considered in its broader context, these are important findings, says Kathman. The U.N.s reputation amongst the American public is one of relative impotence, but our findings contribute to a growing consensus of rigorous analyses that U.N. peacekeeping works. In many cases, if peacekeeping operations hadnt been deployed, those conflicts would likely have been much more violent and protracted. Your Colleagues Mbah receives prestigious ACLS fellowship By ROBBY JOHNSON Ndubueze Mbah, assistant professor of history, has been named a 2019 American Council of Learned Societies (ACLS) Centennial Fellow in the Dynamics of Place. ACLS is the preeminent representative of American scholarship in the humanities and related social sciences. Mbah is one of 81 scholars selected from among more than 1,100 applicants for a fellowship by the ACLS, a private, nonprofit federation of 75 national scholarly associations. Once selected, ACLS fellows receive awards ranging $40,000 to $70,000, depending on the scholars career stage, to support up to a year of full-time research and writing. Mbahs second book project, Rebellious Migrants: Forging Cosmopolitan Identity and Postcolonial Spaces in the Bight of Biafra, 1840-1960, will focus on how social mobility and reintegration politics of Liberated Africans who returned from Sierra Leone to Calabar, Nigeria, facilitated the formation and development of new borderland communities in West Africa. The 2019 ACLS Fellows exemplify ACLSs inclusive vision of excellence in the humanities and humanistic social sciences, said Matthew Goldfeder, director of fellowship programs at ACLS. The awardees, who hail from more than 60 colleges and universities, were selected for their potential to make an original and significant contribution to knowledge. They are working at diverse types of institutions, on research projects that span antiquity to the present, in contexts around the world; the array of disciplines and methodologies represented demonstrates the vitality and the incredible breadth of humanistic scholarship today. A UB faculty member since 2014, Mbah has published work in The Journal of West African History, The Journal of Womens History and the Oxford Research Encyclopedia of African History. His first book, Emergent Masculinities: Gendered Power and Social Change in the Biafran Atlantic Age, will be published this October by Ohio University Press. In addition to the ACLS fellowship, he is a recipient of a 2019-20 OVPRED/HI (Office of the Vice President for Research and Economic Development/Humanities Institute) Research Fellowship, as well as a 2015-16 HI Faculty Research Fellowship. Prior to joining the UB faculty, Mbah served as a visiting assistant professor at Davidson College. He received his PhD in African history from Michigan State University in 2013. Campus News Celebrating South Asian culture with a wedding Photos: Douglas Levere By ROBBY JOHNSON Its really nice to see something like this when youre so far away from home. Its also cool to see culture come together and people of all races enjoying it. Seeing our culture being celebrated here in the U.S. is great. Mohammed Siddiqi, UB psychology major The bride and groom arrived at the ballroom of the Radisson Hotel Niagara Falls-Grand Island on a recent Saturday evening, each entering the venue to playful music. In the matter of seconds, the whole room erupted into applause and laughter. Pictures were taken, followed by dinner and dancing. But this wasnt a real wedding. It was a Mock Shaadi, an annual event hosted by the Pakistani Student Association (PSA) in which students get to experience and celebrate South Asian culture by taking part in a traditional Pakistani wedding. The event is especially important to the large number of UB students who are native to South Asia or have South Asian heritage. Its a great event for people to get together and enjoy, said PSA President Hamza Aamir, a student in the School of Management. We like to provide a comfort space for those members who may not be familiar with the culture here in America. Its nice to be around people who share similar and relatable values as your own, especially similar cultural aspects. After dining on South Asian cuisine, the wedding participants gathered around the dance floor. Students performed a comedy sketch that told the story of two UB students falling in love. Along with its overuse of modern slang and pandering to millennials love of Taco Bell, the sketch also drew laughs because the male and female lead roles were played by someone of the opposite sex. Photos: Douglas Levere The dance floor later served its intended purpose, as wedding guests enjoyed traditional dances performed by members of the wedding party, as well as performances of Bhangra dance, which originates from India and Pakistans Punjab region. The crowd quickly grew thunderous, as South Asian music pulsed throughout the ballroom. This was Aamirs favorite part of the night. Many of our members worked for hours to get the performances done, he said. To see them have fun and doing an amazing job at the performances was heartwarming. Photos: Douglas Levere Kebony was selected to clad the exterior of an an innovative and peaceful retreat on the island of Skaty, Norway. Aptly-named House on an Island, this build combines an intricate timber facade with concrete split-level interiors. Where concrete flooring blurs the divide between the homes interior and its rocky surroundings, the use of Kebony wood unites the house with adjacent trees which populate the Scandinavian island. In the coming years, the dark brown tones of Kebony will begin to develop a silver patina. The design brief for the propertys interior was to create a suitable space for both artists to utilise for contemplation and work away from any distractions. Architects Atelier Oslo created a ruin-like structure within the home which comprises an open-plan living space, kitchen, fireplace and a micro-mezzanine level. The grid-like Kebony wood frame works in conjunction with the long glazed walls to scatter sunshine into the house and provide a natural, calm environment for the owners to enjoy in all seasons. Developed in Norway, Kebonys technology is an environmentally-friendly process which modifies sustainably sourced softwoods by heating the wood with furfuryl alcohol - an agricultural by-product. By polymerising the woods cell wall, the softwoods permanently take on the attributes of tropical hardwood including high durability, hardness and dimensional stability. Kebonys ability to withstand all weather conditions made it the ideal material for the exterior cladding of the island project. Mette Valen, Sales Manager Norway at Kebony, said: Kebony is delighted to have contributed to this beautiful island house. We are particularly impressed by its unique grid frame, which has been skilfully designed and would love to revisit this project as the wood adopts its silver-grey patina. Mumbai: Reliance Brands Limited said on Thursday it will acquire British toy brand Hamleys for an undisclosed amount. The RIL subsidiary and Hong Kong-listed C Banner International Holdings signed a definitive agreement for Reli-ance Brands to acquire 100 per cent shares of Hamleys Global Hold-ings Limited, Reliance Brands said in a statement. The acquisition will catapult Reliance Brands to be a dominant player in the global toy retail industry, it said. Hamleys has 167 stores across 18 countries. In India, Reliance has the master franchise for Hamleys. Reliance Brands President and CEO Darshan Mehta said the worldwide acquisition of Hamleys brand and business places Reliance into the frontline of global retail. Hamleys opened it flagship Regent Street London store in 1881. This store is set over seven floors covering 54,000 sq ft, with over 50,000 lines of toys on sale. Exports during April 2019 have crossed Rs 4,400 crore which is a very encouraging sign, Shaktivel told reporters in Tirupur on Wednesday night. (Representational Image) Coimbatore: Exports of knitwear products from Tirupur is likely to cross Rs 30,000 crore during this fiscal from Rs 26,300 crore registered in 2018-19, a leading exporter and chairman of India International Knit Fair, A Shaktivel said. Exports during April 2019 have crossed Rs 4,400 crore which is a very encouraging sign, Shaktivel told reporters in Tirupur on Wednesday night. Besides, India now has an advantage after the United States (US) imposed tariffs on some products made in China, as many buyers and manufacturers were approaching India for textile products, he said. He also pointed out that Indias strengths were the raw materials that are used like cotton and man-made fibre including polyester. He said if the long-pending demand of exporters for a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the European Union (EU) was met, exports to countries in Europe can be doubled in another three years and added that similar agreements with Canada and Australia would boost exports. Shaktivel said the three-day 46th International Knit Fair will begin in Tirupur on May 15 for which 42 buyers and 90 international buyers have confirmed their participation. The fair would offer a wide variety of knitwear apparel products and cotton, blended garments, Shaktivel said. Mumbai: Bollywood star Akshay Kumar has thanked Union minister Kiren Rijiju for coming out in his support following a controversy over his citizenship. The actor, who recently made headlines for his "candid and completely non-political" chat with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, was the subject of intense speculation about his citizenship after he did not vote in Mumbai on April 29 in the fourth round of the seven-phase Lok Sabha polls. On May 3, in a statement on his official Twitter handle, the 51-year-old actor said he had never hidden or denied that he holds a Canadian passport. The same day, Rijiju offered his support to the Bollywood superstar, saying his "patriotism" towards the country is beyond any doubt. The Union Minister of State for Home Affairs also lauded Akshay's efforts in raising funds for the 'Bharat Ke Veer' campaign, a home ministry fund which aids families of paramilitary personnel who died fighting extremists. Also Read | 'Never denied I hold a Canadian passport': Akshay Kumar reacts on citizenship row "Dear @akshaykumar ji, no one can question your patriotism. Your motivation to our Armed Forces personnel and the way you generated funds for our martyrs through #BharatKeVeer programme will remain an example for every patriotic Indian," Rijiju, posted on the micro-blogging site. Dear @akshaykumar ji, no one can question your patriotism. Your motivation to our Armed Forces personnel and the way you generated funds for our martyrs through #BharatKeVeer programme will remain an example for every patriotic Indian. https://t.co/RdFl2oyKhF Chowkidar Kiren Rijiju (@KirenRijiju) May 3, 2019 In his response on Tuesday, Akshay thanked the minister, saying he will continue to support the Indian armed forces. "Thank you so much @KirenRijiju Sir, and I apologise for the delayed response. I am grateful for your kind words. Please be assured, my commitment to #BharatKeVeer and to the Indian armed forces would remain steady, no matter what," the actor wrote. Thank you so much @KirenRijiju Sir, and I apologise for the delayed response. I am grateful for your kind words. Please be assured, my commitment to #BharatKeVeer and to the Indian armed forces would remain steady, no matter what https://t.co/W1298prsEQ Akshay Kumar (@akshaykumar) May 7, 2019 Akshay, who started his journey in Bollywood in 1991 with "Saugandh", has established himself as one of the Hindi film industry's most bankable stars. In the past few years, the actor has featured in a series of films such as "Toilet: Ek Prem Katha" and "Padman" focusing on social issues. He also won a National Award for his performance in "Rustom", in which he played a patriotic Navy officer. Akshay's last release was "Kesari" based on the Battle of Saragarhi. Mumbai: Bollywood actor Swara Bhasker, who is known for her outspoken nature and political views, has recently given a befitting reply to a Modi bhakt. The 'Veere Di Wedding' actor showed the mirror to Modi supporter who sneakily shot a video with her by saying "Aayega toh Modi hi." Apparently, a man who turned out to be a Modi bhakt took a selfie video with Swara and passed a comment to criticise her. He titled the video, 'epic beizzati' and posted it on Twitter. Watch the video here: However, Swara Bhasker, who has been disliking Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) gave him a befitting reply on Twitter. She wrote, "A guy asks for a selfie @ airport; I oblige coz I dont discriminate people who want selfies based on their politics. He sneakily shoots a video. Tacky & underhand tactics r trademarks of bhakts. Im unsurprised. But always glad 2 make bhakts feel like their lives are worthwhile". A guy asks for a selfie @ airport; I oblige coz I dont discriminate people who want selfies based on their politics. He sneakily shoots a video. Tacky & underhand tactics r trademarks of bhakts. Im unsurprised. But always glad 2 make bhakts feel like their lives are worthwhile https://t.co/bKyFEOKZQh Swara Bhasker (@ReallySwara) May 8, 2019 Well, this is indeed a strong move from Swara's side. After all, the actress has been campaigning against BJP candidate Sadhvi Pragya Singh Thakur who is accused in Malegaon blasts case. Also Read | Women voice is being heard now: Swara Bhasker On the work front, Swara was last seen in Kareena Kapoor Khan, Sonam Kapoor and Shikha Talsania starrer 'Veere Di Wedding' in 2018. Mumbai: If rumours are to be believed Varun Dhawan, the illustrious son of director David Dhawan wont be wearing the coolies outfit in the Dhawans second collaborative venture Coolie No 1. A source very close to the project informs, I dont think Varun would look cool in that red outfit which Govinda wore as a coolie in the original Coolie No 1 or Amitabh Bachchan in Coolie. Those were different times. Nowadays if you go to a railway station in Mumbai the coolies dont dress up like that, in fact they are no longer called coolies. Then arises the question, why is the new avatar of David Dhawan-Govinda starrer featuring Dhawans cool son, called Coolie No.1? The question in point here is not of the cultural change, the coolie dress code has undergone in this country since the time Coolie No 1 and Coolie were originally made in the 90s. The question is of our current stars looking cool no matter what they do. And credibility is damned. A filmmaker who is currently working on an ambitious project with Salman Khan says, Cultural identity is not a desirable thing any more. You show your Muslim hero in a traditional pathani suit or with a beard, you are accused of stereotyping. I wanted Salman to be dressed according to his characters cultural background, but I was told it wont be cool to do so. The whole scenario brings us to ask, who defines what is cool or not? The fashion police, the moral police, the costume designers or the hero who wears what he wants to wear? Even as her fantasy thriller Ticket in Tamil and English is gearing up for release, Sanam Shetty has moved on to a revenge thriller directed by Arjun Kalaivan, a former assistant of Mysshkin. The film has Michael of Burma fame as the lead guy. Talking to DC, Sanam says, I play a middle class girl who helps the hero in his mission. Though a thriller, theres a cute and meaningful romance in the film. It is a very beautiful character. With the digital revolution setting in, many actors are jumping on the bandwagon and are keen to be part of web series. Sanam Shetty is no different. The actress is presently playing the lead in a web series produced by actress Kutty Padmini. Its a gangster story and I play a doctor. It is a layered character and challenging role as well, Sanam claims. She is also part of yet another web series where she essays actor Nandhas pair. Wont accepting web series hamper her film chances, we ask. See, today, content is king and so many new avenues have opened up. I dont differentiate between a film and web series, as I put in the same kind of effort and time for both. I am happy in both zones. The items that caused offense were created by various designers and carried black-and-white post-war images of Auschwitz and the railway tracks leading into the Birkenau extermination camp and its gas chambers. (Photo: AP) Warsaw: The Auschwitz Memorial and Museum has complained to an e-commerce site that was selling miniskirts, tote bags and other items printed with photos of the former Nazi German death camp where around 1.1 million people were killed during World War II. The museum in Poland learned about the products offered on Australian e-commerce site Redbubble from people who saw them online, spokesman Bartosz Bartyzel said Wednesday. Employees were shocked and outraged over what they considered blatant dishonouring of Holocaust victims, he said. The items that caused offense were created by various designers and carried black-and-white post-war images of Auschwitz and the railway tracks leading into the Birkenau extermination camp and its gas chambers. A tote bag with a German-language warning sign at Auschwitz was being sold for 13.90 euros, a skirt with an Auschwitz image for 35 euros, and a pillow for 40.29 euros. Do you really think that selling such products as pillows, miniskirts or tote bags with the images of Auschwitz - a place of enormous human tragedy where over 1.1 million people were murdered - is acceptable? This is rather disturbing and disrespectful, read a tweet sent Tuesday from the Auschwitz Memorial account to Redbubbles customer service feed on Twitter. Redbubble allows artists to create designs for T-shirts and other items made from fabric and to sell them directly to the public online. In response to the museums protest, Redbubble tweeted the nature of this content is not acceptable and that it was taking immediate action to remove these and similar works available on these product types. Redbubble takes a strong stance against racism and violence, including the atrocities committed in Nazi concentration camps, the company said in a separate statement. Bartyzel blamed the commercialization of the Holocaust and improper use of death camp imagery on a lack of sensitivity, thoughtlessness, maybe sometimes a form of provocation. Constant educating about Auschwitz-Birkenau and reacting quickly are the best prevention, he said. Luckily, the company that had made them available reacted in the right way, and we saw the items being removed from the offer, Bartyzel said of the products on Redbubble. Auschwitz Memorial tweeted to thank Redbubble for their message and reaction. From 1940-45, around 1.1 million people, mostly Jews, but also Poles, Gypsies, Russian prisoners of war and others, were killed in the gas chambers or died of starvation, hard labour and disease at Auschwitz-Birkenau, the complex of concentration, forced labour and death camps Nazi Germany operated in occupied Poland. Last year, over 2.1 million people visited the museum. Last week, around 10,000 Jewish youths from around the world were joined by Holocaust survivors and politicians in the annual 3-kilometer (1.8-mile) March of the Living from Auschwitz to Birkenau in memory of the 6 million Jews killed during the war. Warsaw: The Auschwitz Memorial and Museum has complained to an e-commerce site that was selling miniskirts, tote bags and other items printed with photos of the former Nazi German death camp where around 1.1 million people were killed during World War II. The museum in Poland learned about the products offered on Australian e-commerce site Redbubble from people who saw them online, spokesman Bartosz Bartyzel said Wednesday. Employees were shocked and outraged over what they considered blatant dishonouring of Holocaust victims, he said. The items that caused offense were created by various designers and carried black-and-white post-war images of Auschwitz and the railway tracks leading into the Birkenau extermination camp and its gas chambers. A tote bag with a German-language warning sign at Auschwitz was being sold for 13.90 euros, a skirt with an Auschwitz image for 35 euros, and a pillow for 40.29 euros. Do you really think that selling such products as pillows, miniskirts or tote bags with the images of Auschwitz a place of enormous human tragedy where over 1.1 million people were murdered is acceptable? This is rather disturbing and disrespectful, read a tweet sent Tuesday from the Auschwitz Memorial account to Redbubbles customer service feed on Twitter. Redbubble allows artists to create designs for T-shirts and other items made from fabric and to sell them directly to the public online. In response to the museums protest, Redbubble tweeted the nature of this content is not acceptable and that it was taking immediate action to remove these and similar works available on these product types. Redbubble takes a strong stance against racism and violence, including the atrocities committed in Nazi concentration camps, the company said in a separate statement. Bartyzel blamed the commercialisation of the Holocaust and improper use of death camp imagery on a lack of sensitivity, thoughtlessness, maybe sometimes a form of provocation. Constant educating about Auschwitz-Birkenau and reacting quickly are the best prevention, he said. Luckily, the company that had made them available reacted in the right way and we saw the items being removed from the offer, Bartyzel said of the products on Redbubble. Auschwitz Memorial tweeted to thank Redbubble for their message and reaction. From 1940-45, around 1.1 million people, mostly Jews, but also Poles, Gypsies, Russian prisoners of war and others, were killed in the gas chambers or died of starvation, hard labour and disease at Auschwitz-Birkenau, the complex of concentration, forced labor and death camps Nazi Germany operated in occupied Poland. Last year, over 2.1 million people visited the museum. Last week, around 10,000 Jewish youths from around the world were joined by Holocaust survivors and politicians in the annual 3-kilometer (1.8-mile) March of the Living from Auschwitz to Birkenau in memory of the 6 million Jews killed during the war. Researchers found that lower SES was associated with higher psychological distress, and higher distress was associated with higher emotional eating, which in turn predicted higher BMI. (Representational/Pexels) Washington: People with lower incomes may be more likely to have obesity as a result of psychological distress that gives rise to emotional eating, recent findings suggest. As part of the latest study, as team of researchers explored whether the relationship between lower socioeconomic status (SES) and obesity is explained by psychological distress and subsequent emotional eating as a coping strategy. 150 participants from North West England from a range of socioeconomic backgrounds completed questionnaires measuring psychological distress, emotional eating and resilience. They reported their income and education level as an indicator of socioeconomic status and their height and weight in order to calculate body mass index (BMI). The findings were published in the Journal of Obesity. Researchers found that lower SES was associated with higher psychological distress, and higher distress was associated with higher emotional eating, which in turn predicted higher BMI. The study showed that psychological distress alone did not facilitate a relationship between lower SES and BMI. According to the researchers, the findings suggest that experiencing psychological distress associated with living in lower socio-economic circumstances is associated with emotional eating to cope which in turn is associated with obesity. "The reason for socioeconomic disparities in obesity levels is often attributed to the greater availability of low-cost, calorie-dense foods in more deprived areas relative to more affluent neighbourhoods. However, there is limited evidence for an association between local food environments and obesity, indicating psychological and emotional factors may also play a role," said Charlotte Hardman, lead researcher of the study. The study also revealed an unexpected finding. Higher SES was also associated with emotional eating. However, this pathway was not in response to significant psychological distress. Kolkata: Indian Army Chief General Bipin Rawat on Thursday visited the China-specific Brahmastra Corps at Panagarh in Burdwan. This was the first visit by the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) to the key formation: XVII Mountain Strike Corps in its new location in West Bengal subsequent to its permanent move from Jharkhand in March this year. The visit was aimed at reviewing the operational preparedness and the progress of restructuring of this strategically important formation. The COAS was accompanied by Lt Gen MM Naravane, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief Eastern Command. The Eastern Command stated, "During the visit, the General Officer Commanding Brahmastra Corps briefed the COAS and Army Commander on the various issues concerning operational preparedness of the formation and he assured the senior military commanders of the formations readiness to undertake its mandated tasks." It added, "The COAS expressed his satisfaction at the state of operational preparedness and restructuring. He complimented the formation on its successful relocation and high standards of professionalism. The COAS during his interaction with troops complimented them on their high standards of morale, discipline and training and exhorted all ranks to uphold the true traditions of Indian Army and wished them success in all their future endeavours." Keep yourself updated on Lok Sabha Elections 2019 with our round-the-clock coverage -- breaking news, updates, analyses et all. Happy reading. The video is actually CCTV footage from Hotel Sangaylay in Leh, the venue for the BJP leaders press conference. (Representational Image) Srinagar: The Leh police have registered an FIR in connection with the BJPs allegedly trying to bribe local reporters for favourable coverage during the Lok Sabha elections. Lehs Chief Judicial Magistrate (CJM) had on Wednesday while acting on an application filed by the Press Club Leh permitted the police to investigate the matter under law. The order said, The instant application is allowed and Station House Officer, Police Station, Leh is permitted to investigate the matter under law. Congress candidate for Ladakh Lok Sabha seat Rigzin Spalbar had also moved the court with a complaint that the BJP has violated the Model Code of Conduct (MCC). Subsequently, the police registered an FIR at the concerned police station and took up investigation into the matter, the official sources said. According to a complaint lodged with the police by the Press Club Leh, the BJP leaders including its J&K state president Ravinder Raina and its in-charge for Ladakh constituency Vikram Randhawa, tried to bribe media persons on May 2 after a press conference held in Ladakhs main town to use their platform to influence the outcome of the election. Read: After BJP's attempt to bribe Leh-based journalists snowballs, CCTV footage emerges The polling in Ladakh Lok Sabha constituency was held in the fifth phase of the general elections on May 5, three days after the incident. The BJP has denied the charge and threatened to sue the journalists for defamation. It claimed that the envelopes contained the invitations to media persons to cover the party rally which was to be addressed by Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu in Leh on May 4. At the same time, the BJP has set up an internal party inquiry committee to probe the allegation. Earlier this week, a video emerged showing Randhawa handing out envelopes to journalists in presence of his partys State unit head. The video is actually CCTV footage from Hotel Sangaylay in Leh, the venue for the BJP leaders press conference. It shows a woman leaving an envelope on the table. She later said that when she asked Randhawa about the Rs 500 notes being in the envelope he told her that it was a token of love. She and other journalists have also said that when they objected to it, the BJP leader told them that they do this in Jammu too, so what was the problem. The BJP has claimed that the CCTV footage of the incident does not show journalists being bribed by its leaders. The CCTV grab being circulated on the social media is of the invitation envelopes being given to reporters for the coverage of Defence Ministers visit to Leh. This is being shown as if money is being given to them, Randhawa said at a press conference in winter capital Jammu on Wednesday. Dr Khandekar, in his report, had highlighted the unscientific basis on which virginity is determined by doctors and reasons for its removal from the syllabus. (Representational Image) Nagpur: An expert panel of the Maharashtra University of Health Sciences (MUHS) has unanimously proposed to remove the contents of "virginity test" from the curriculum of forensic medicine of MBBS course. The paraclinical expert academic board of Nashik-based MUHS took the decision following a plea by Dr Indrajit Khandekar, professor, forensic medicine, Mahatma Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences (MGIMS) Sewagram, who said "virginity test" has no scientific basis. The MUHS had held a meeting on April 9 under the chairmanship of Dr R J Bharma. Board members, including forensic experts Dr Hemant Godbole and Dr Sandip Kadu, were also present at the meeting, where this decision was taken. The board's move came in response to a detailed report submitted to Registrar of MUHS Dr K D Chavan on December 26, 2018 by Dr Khandekar. Dr Khandekar had urged the state government and the MUHS to remove the contents about "virginity test" from the medical curriculum of forensic medicine subject of MBBS course on the ground that it has no scientific basis. Dr Khandekar, in his report, had highlighted the unscientific basis on which virginity is determined by doctors and reasons for its removal from the syllabus. The report had also highlighted how it violates human rights and leads to gender discrimination. Due to inclusion of signs of virginity in medical syllabus, almost all the textbooks of forensic medicine of MBBS course includes the details of virginity, its signs and medico legal aspects, he said. Dr Khandekar said some textbooks also give details about "false virgin and true virgin''. But no textbook quotes any scientific literature or study to support their statements or information, he said. "Inclusion of "signs of virginity'' in medical curriculum/textbooks has created (and still continuing to create) wrong impression in the minds of doctors, general public, communities that virginity test is scientific and medical one. "Hence, there is a need to highlight the unscientific basis of it in medical books," Dr Khandekar said. He said virginity is a very personal issue and no one has any right to know whether the other person is virgin or not. The accused works in a pharmaceutical company and the investigation is underway. (Photo: File I Representational) Mumbai: A Mumbai doctor has been arrested for allegedly raping a 21-year-old model, the police said. Police said the two met while the woman was working on a TV serial and that they also lived together. "We have registered a case on the complaint of the woman and an investigation is underway," senior police inspector Ravindra Badgujar said. The accused works in a pharmaceutical company. PM Modi said that the Army chiefs in charge at the time have no information on such strikes. (Photo: File) New Delhi: After surgical strikes claim made by the former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh last week, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said that as far as he knew, the UPA government did not launch any surgical strikes, reported Hindustan Times. PM Modi said that the Army chiefs in charge at the time have no information on such strikes. What kind of surgical strike was it? Who issued the orders? Where are the orders? These are the questions they [UPA] should be asked to answer. I can only say that we have not found any records of this, Modi said. In 2016, the Modi-led NDA government launched a counterstrike against terror across the Line of Control after the Uri terror attack. In February 2019, the government launched an air strike on a Jaish-e-Mohammed training camp at Balakot in Pakistan after Pulwama terror attack. Last week, in an interview with HT, Singh said his government had carried out similar surgical strikes but did not use them to garner votes. In the ongoing elections, the Bharatiya Janata Party has made national security as a central agenda of its campaign. For a decade or so, the Indian government had tied its own hands as far as Pakistan-backed terror was concerned. Pakistan kept mounting attacks and there was no cost imposed upon the perpetrators. This gave terrorists and their sponsors a kind of impunity that we can do anything and get away. First with the surgical strike and now with the air strike, we have sent the message that there will now be significant costs to sponsoring terror, Modi said. Speaking on the recent decision of United Nations listing Jaish-e-Mohammeds Masood Azhar as a global terrorist, Modi said everyone was wrongly describing this as a China-related issue when, in reality, it is about global terror. PM Modi said he is confident about coming back to the office and has been from his first day as Prime Minister May 26, 2014. He said that the election is based on performance, not perception. To say that in these elections there is just a name that is working, that isnt correct. The 2019 elections are special because this is the first time those born in the 21st century are voting and are not burdened by the past but are in pursuit of a better future, Modi said. Keep yourself updated on Lok Sabha Elections 2019 with our round-the-clock coverage -- breaking news, updates, analysis et al. Happy reading. New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Thursday dismissed a plea that had objected to the Tamil Nadu government's decision to prematurely release former prime minister Rajiv Gandhi's 7 convicted assassins. The Supreme Court found no merit in the plea that was filed by relatives of those who had died with Rajiv Gandhi in Sriperumbudur in 1991. A bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi said, "All aspects were covered in the earlier constitution bench verdict in the case and therefore nothing survives in the case". In 2014, the then J Jayalalithaa-led government had decided to release seven convicts in the case. Former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi was assassinated by a suicide bomber in Sriperumbudur in Tamil Nadu on May 21, 1991. New Delhi: Ahead of the elections in Delhi, Punjab and Haryana, the Bharatiya Janata Party gave targeted Sikh voters not merely by raking up the anti-Sikh riots and but also making unrestrained allegations against the former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi and accusing him of dictating the genocide of around 10,000 people of the community, citing the Nanavati Commission. However, the Nanavati Commission, which had held a section of Congress workers responsible for the anti-Sikh riots, virtually gave a clean chit to Rajiv Gandhi. The reports stated: The evidence on the other hand suggest that Shri Rajiv Gandhi had showed much concern about what was happening in Delhi. He had issued an appeal for remaining calm and maintaining communal harmony. In view of the complaints received by him, that people were not able to contact the police on Telephone No - 100, he had immediately called some police officers and told them to take immediate action so that anyone who wanted to contact the police could so. He had even visited the affected areas on the night of 01/11/1984. Prime Minister Naren-dra Modi had first attack-ed the former PM at a rally in UP last week as Bhra-shtachari No.1 in resp-onse to Congress president Rahul Gandhis attacks on him regarding alle-ged corruption in the Rafale deal and his purported claim that he was trying to tarnish the PMs image by talking about corruption in the Rafale deal. Then came the PMs remarks on Wednesday at Ramlila Maidan that the Gandhi family used warship INS Viraat as its personal taxi for a holiday when the Rajiv Gandhi was Indias Prime Mini-ster between 1984-89. Its on the record in the Nanavati Commission that probed the 1984 anti-Sikh riots, the biggest genocide of India in which the government killed its own citizens, that instructions to kill came directly from the then PM Rajiv Gandhis office...The country awaits justice for this karma (sic), tweeted the BJPs official handle on Thursday. Union minister Arun Jaitley also echoed the PMs sentiments expres-sed by Mr Modi over the use of INS Viraat by late PM saying while the kaa-mdars used Indias naval fleet to strike at terror, naamdar used it for personal reasons. The Kaamdars use Indias naval assets to strike at terror. The Naamdars use them for personal vacations with family and in-laws, tweeted Mr Jaitley on Thursday. Apparently responding to senior Congress leader Ahmed Patels tweet, the senior BJP leader also tweeted said that the Congress, which had blamed the DMK for Gandhis assassination has now tied up with the regional party in Tamil Nadu during the ongoing general election. From December 1990 till May 1991, when Shri Rajiv Gandhi was assassinated, the Congress Party-supported Chandra Shekhar government was in power.... From May 1991 till 2004, the Congress blamed its present ally the DMK for Shri Rajiv Gandhis assassination. It even withdrew support from the United Front government on this ground. 28 years later, today a desperate Congress has discovered a BJP role (sic), Mr Jaitley said. Mr Patel had earlier tweeted: Abusing a martyred Prime Minster is the sign of ultimate cowardice. But who is responsible for his assassination? The BJP backed V.P. Singh govt refused to provide him with additional security & left him with one PSO despite credible intelligence inputs and repeated requests... Bhopal: A political row has erupted in Madhya Pradesh over a claim by the Kamal Nath government about the writing off of a crop loan of kin of former chief minister and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) national vice-president Shivraj Singh Chouhan. Congress president Rahul Gandhi waved documents to establish the state governments claim at his election meeting in Sagar in the state on Thursday. He asked Madhya Pradesh chief minister Kamal Nath, who was flanked by him, to send copies of documents to Mr Chouhan to call his alleged bluff. Minutes after Mr Gandhi flaunted the documents at his election meeting, Mr Chouhans brother Rohit Singh, the purported beneficiary of the farm loan waiver scheme, lodged a complaint with the local divisional commissioner disowning the purported application submitted to the government seeking to write off his crop outstanding. I have never applied for a farm loan waiver. In fact, I am not eligible for the scheme since I am an income tax payee. My signature on the application seeking to waive loans has been forged. It is a political conspiracy to defame the former chief minister Mr Chouhan, Mr Singh told reporters late on Thursday evening. I have no outstanding. I have received no due certificate from my bank showing that I have no dues. Then, how can I ask for writing off my loans? he asked. He announced to lodge a complaint with local police seeking action against the person who had allegedly forged his signature in the application seeking farm loan waiver. The former chief minister came under attack by the ruling Congress when he started a campaign in the state claiming that the state government has failed to fulfill his poll promise to waive farm loans. He claimed that outstanding of not a single farmer in the state has been written off. However, the chief minister asserted that farm loans of 21 lakh peasants in the state have so far been waived by his government and sent documents establishing his claim to Mr Chouhan. It has become a major issue in the ongoing LS elections in MP. From the files: Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi with Admiral L. Ramdas (right) and Vice-Admiral M.J. Singh at the official dinner on board the INS Viraat in December 1987. Hyderabad: Admiral L. Ramdas (retired), who was Southern Navy Commander in 1987 and was on board the INS Viraat when the Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi and his wife Sonia travelled to Lakshadweep on the aircraft carrier, said that the ship was taking part in Naval exercises and that they were on an official visit. Adm. Ramdas said the letter was drawing written responses of Vice-Admiral Vinod Parishcha (retd), then Captain and commanding officer of the INS Viraat, Admiral Arun Prakash (retd) was commanding the INS Vindhyagiri which was accompanying the Viraat, and Vice-Admiral Madanjit Singh (retd), then commanding the INS Ganga. The Naval officers refuted Mr Modis claim and said, All protocols were followed at the time and that no foreigners or other guests were present. Adm. Ramdas (retd) stated: The Prime Minister (Rajiv Gandhi) and Mrs (Sonia) Gandhi were embarked on board INS Viraat off Thiruvanan-thapuram en route to Lakshwadeep. He was invited as a chief guest for the National Games prize distribution and was on official duty, i.e., to chair a meeting of IDA (Islands Development Authority). This meeting is held alternately in Lakshadweep and in Andamans. Stating that there were no foreigners with the couple on board the ship, Adm Ramdas (retd) said, I, as Flag officer Comma-nding in Chief, Southern Naval Command, based in Kochi, also boarded INS Viraat. Four other ships were with INS Viraat as part of fleet exercises. I hosted a dinner for them on board INS Viraat. There were no other parties held on board INS Viraat or for that matter any other ship in our fleet during that time. The Navy officers were referring to the meetings and functions held in December 1987 when the western fleet had planned its naval exercises. The officers said the Gandhi couple visited a few islands by helicopter to meet local officials and people. They said only Rajiv and Sonia Gandhi had gone ashore, unaccompanied by Rahul Gandhi. A few naval divers had been sent ashore for the PMs safety but no ship had been diverted. A helicopter was left at Kavratti to meet emergency requirements. Admiral Ramdas (retd) also stated that he had hosted a bada khana as per Naval custom and that he has photographs of the event. The Western Command had charted out the exercise much in advance of the yearly programme held in that part of the Arabian Sea, he said. Admiral Ramdas and several officers who were in the Navy at that time were responding to Prime Minister Narendra Modi who had on Wednesday during an election rally accused the Gandhi family of using INS Viraat as its personal taxi for a holiday when Rajiv Gandhi was the PM. In his speech, Mr Modi had said: "Ever imagined that a premier warship of the Indian armed forces could be used as a taxi for a personal holiday? One dynasty did it. The Navy was made to host the Gandhi family and Rajiv Gandhis in-laws and a helicopter was also deployed in their service," Modi had claimed. Adm. Ramdas (retd.), said the Gandhis flew to a couple of islands in the Lakshadweep chain by helicopter. While they travelled on the INS Viraat, the ships were not diverted for personal purposes. A helicopter was stationed at the island for medical emergencies, the letter said, recalling the sequence of events. Bhopal: Prime Minister Narendra Modi's allegations against Rajiv Gandhi are "atrocious" and the way he now talks reflects that he is highly enraged and has started feeling that time has come for him to return to Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath said Thursday. "It is a painful thing that Modi has forgot his status. The way he is levelling allegations is atrocious. He is not talking about youths, about farmers, about traders but trying to divert people's attention. He is misleading people," Nath told PTI in an interview. Modi had said in Uttar Pradesh's Pratapgarh district on Saturday that Rajiv Gandhi had died a corrupt person. "Your (Rahul Gandhi's) father was termed 'Mr Clean' by his courtiers, but his life ended as 'Bhrashtachari No. 1' (corrupt no. 1)." Modi was apparently referring to the Bofors scam, in which Rajiv Gandhi was implicated. Rajiv Gandhi was assassinated in 1991 in Sriperumbudur near Chennai. When asked about the fate of Modi, Nath said, "One thing is absolutely clear that Modi is going to return back home (Gujarat). His ghar vapsi (return to Gujarat) is certain." According to the senior Congress leader, the "way Modi is talking, reflects that he is highly enraged and has started feeling that his time is up now." On Modi stating after the third-fourth phases of polling that the Opposition has already lost the elections, Nath said, "What else he would say? He won't say that he that he is losing ground." Asked about BSP supremo Mayawati's threat of reviewing support to his government in Madhya Pradesh after the party's Guna candidate pulled out of the election race and joined the Congress, Nath said, "The candidate wanted to join Congress, therefore we cannot stop him from doing so. (Sitting MP Jyotiraditya) Scindia took me into confidence before announcing about it." He said the Congress and Mayawati have a common aim -- to defeat BJP and to keep Modi out. "I am fully confident that Mayawati will not do anything that benefits the BJP," he said. On the contest in Bhopal, where senior Congress leader Digvijay Singh is pitted against Pragya Singh Thakur, Nath said, "Singh suggested contesting from a difficult seat than his traditional one as he is already a Rajya Sabha member and therefore his contesting from Bhopal." The BJP has no candidate from Bhopal and therefore has put Pragya Singh Thakur, who joined the party a day before her nomination, in the fray, he said. "With this, the BJP wanted to give a message that it wants to do politics of Hindutva and to divide people... to get benefitted... But people of Bhopal are sensible and I respect them a lot. They will not get into BJP's trap," Nath said, adding people of Bhopal will "not sow a seed that will disrupt their peace in future". Patna: After a tough contest in five phases, it appears that NDA and the grand alliance are locked in a neck to neck contest in the sixth phase in Bihar. Of the eight seats going to polls on May 12, Siwan, Maharajganj and East Champaran are crucial. Siwan has become a hot seat as the wives of dreaded gangsters turned politicians Hina Shahab and Kavita Singh are locked in a fierce battle. Hina, fielded by the RJD, is the wife of four-time MP and criminal turned politician Mohammad Shaha-buddin while the JD(U) has given the ticket to Kavita Singh, sitting MLA, and wife of dreaded gangster Ajay Singh. Convicted in multiple criminal cases including murders, Shahabuddin is lodged in Tihar jail. After Shahabuddin was convicted and barred from contesting elections in 2007 RJD chief Lalu Yadav chose Hina Shahab but she lost to Om Prakash Yadav of the BJP in 2009 and 2014. This time the seat went to Chief Minister Nitish Kumars party under the seat-sharing arrangement. Sources claim that Kavita Singh is banking on BJP and JD(U)s core Rajputs and OBCs voters. Analysts dont rule out the division in the OBC votes. In 2009 and 2014, sharp division of votes had helped the NDA. Now, the caste equations have changed after RLSP chief Upendra Kushwaha, Mahadalit leader Jitan Ram Manjhi and Vikasheel Insan Party of Mukesh Sahani have joined the RJD alliance. New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Thursday dismissed at the admission stage a writ petition filed by two activists for a direction to the EC to debar Congress President Rahul Gandhi from contesting the Lok Sabha polls from Amethi and Wayanad constituencies till his citizenship issue is decided. A Bench of Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and Justices Deepak Gupta and Sanjiv Khanna told counsel for the two petitioners, Some company has mentioned Rahul Gandhi as a British citizen, so does he become a British citizen? He is not aspiring to be Prime Minister. But if 123 crore people say let he be the PM would you mind. The petitioners, Jai Bhagwan Goyal and Chander Prakash Tyagi challenged Mr Gandhis Indian Citizenship and said that he might become the PM despite his dual citizenship. When the CJI asked counsel who are you, the counsel said his client was a public spirited person and a social worker, who is also in politics. The CJI remarked, You are in the politics of social work. Justice Gupta asked the counsel, Why have you chosen 2019 to come to court with the apprehension about Mr Gandhis citizenship status. When counsel said the documents surfaced only in 2015, justice Gupta said still you waited till 2019 to approach the court. The bench then dismissed the petition. The activists alleged that Mr Gandhi has acquired British citizenship, which, according to them, is evident from documents filed by Backops Ltd before the Registrar of Companies for England and Wales. Hyderabad: The Telangana High Court on Thursday directed the Election Commission not to issue the election notification up to May 15 for three Legislative Council seats from the local bodies quota, which are pending before it for adjudication. The court is yet to give a final order on the validity of the orders issued by the Legislative Council Chairman disqualifying three members Mr Ramulu Naik, Mr Yadava Reddy and Mr Bhoopathi Reddy on the alleged ground of defection from the TRS to the Congress. The final orders will be pronounced on May 15 after the final hearing. The vacation bench comprising Acting Chief Justice Raghavendra Singh Chauhan and Justice Shameem Akther while restraining the EC from issuing the election notification, directed the Council secretary to submit relevant records pertaining to the disqualification of Mr Yadava Reddy and Mr Bhoopathi Reddy to the court by May 15. The bench was hearing the petitions of the former MLCs who had challenged the Chairman`s disqualification orders. Ms Juvvadi Madhuri, junior counsel representing the EC, submitted, on a query of the court, that the EC was planning to conduct elections as per the Constitution which mandated the poll panel to fill the vacant seats of public representatives within six months after they fall vacant. There were no directions to the EC from the court about the issue of appeal against the disqualification petitions, Ms Madhuri said. After the lunch session, the ECI gave an undertaking to the court that it would not issue the election notification to the seats occupied by Mr Bhoopathi Reddy. After taking consideration the bench orally directed the EC not to issue notifications for all three seats, till the date of further hearing on May 15. Mr Anand Kapoor, counsel representing Mr Bhoopathi Reddy, challenged the constitutional validity of Para 8 of the Tenth Schedule of the Constitution which enables the Chairman or Speaker of a House to make rules and enforce them, without prejudice. He submitted that this rule empowered the Chairman to adjudicate on the defection petitions without referring to the committee under Rule 7(4) of the Telangana Legislative Council (disqualification of grounds of defection). New Delhi: A member of Prime Minister Narendra Modis Economic Advisory Council (PMEAC), Rathin Roy, has said that the Indian economy was heading for a structural slowdown which may not be good going ahead. Speaking to NDTV, Roy indicated that the Indian economy is running the risk of a structural crisis and could be caught in the middle income trap similar to Brazil and South Africa. "We are heading for a structural slowdown. This is an early warning. Sicne 1991, the economy has been growing not on the basis of exports but on the basis of what the top 100 million of the Indian population wants to consume," he said. Those 100 million or 10 crore Indian consumers who were "powering" India's growth story, he said, have started to plateau out. This phenomenon is known as a middle-income trap. The Monthly Economic Report of March 2019, published by the Ministry of Finance, was a precursor to Roys warning. It had also stated that Indias economy appears to have slowed down slightly in 2018-19. The proximate factors responsible for this slowdown include declining growth of private consumption, tepid increase in fixed investment, and muted exports. When asked about the government's rhetoric that India is the fastest-growing economy in the world, he said, "India is the fastest growing economy in the world. But this is not the fastest growing economy in India's history. India is the fastest growing economy in the world because China is not the fastest growing economy. We are growing at 6.1-6.6 per cent. But this consumption slowdown is going to put that under threat. India will grow at 5-6 per cent, year-on-year for the next 5-6 years, but a time will come when that will stop." When asked whether he was able to raise this matter with the government, he said he had been raising this issue at public forums. Apart from a member of PMEAC, Roy is also the Director of National Institute of Public Finance and Policy. New Delhi: Despite Chinas continuous interference, Taiwan wants to strengthen its ties with India. A senior official has said that Taiwan would engage with the new government in India and will undertake more official trips. Taiwan which is approximately 180 km off China doesnt get recognition from Beijing as a separate country. China doesnt appreciate Taiwan having diplomatic ties with other countries but has no issues with Taiwan maintaining trade and economic ties with foreign nations. Chung Kwang Tien, the representative of the Taipei Economic and Culture Centre in India, told Reuters that after the formation of new government in India, the two countries will build trade and cultural ties. This centre aids the companies of both the countries to expand business ties. China had protested the visit of a Taiwanese delegation to India in 2017. Tien said that India ranked among the highest priorities in Taiwans new policy that focussed on building ties with the South Asian nations. New Delhi is hosting the second Taiwan Expo in next week which would witness the participation of over 100 Taiwanese companies from diverse industries viz. electronics, artificial intelligence, healthcare and food processing. Taiwan has set up 14 language centres in Indian educational institutions to promote the Chinese language. Taiwan has four trade offices in India. The island nation has also sought Indias support to secure a place in the World Health Organisation. BJP's Giriraj Singh has forecast a time when it will be difficult to find Pakistan on the map if the country continues to support terror activities. (Photo: File) Patna: BJP's Giriraj Singh has forecast a time when it will be difficult to find Pakistan on the map if the country continues to support terror activities. Issuing a threat of wiping out the country if it aids terrorism, the union minister said India will not stop at air strikes and water strikes, a reference to Nitin Gadkari's remarks about stopping water to Pakistan. "If Pakistan doesn't stop terrorism, then there will not just be airstrikes, similar to what happened in Balakot, there will not just be water strikes, but it will be difficult to find Pakistan on the map one day," the BJP leader said. Singh, who has often made references to Pakistan in his statements, said the country stands exposed after India's Balakot strikes. "Pakistan has been exposed on Balakot air strikes. The world accepts that India was able to eliminate Jaish-e-Mohammad terrorists there," he said. Backing Prime Minister Narendra Modi's latest jibe at the Gandhi family, Singh said the Congress should have the courage to hear the truth. "Congress should have the courage to hear the truth on INS Virat, which they lack. The Prime Minister is being abused in many ways; he is being called Duryodhana, 'jallad' etc. But all these abuses will only make him stronger. This is being done in frustration by Congress," Singh said. Modi had recently accused Gandhi family of compromising national security by using INS Virat as a "personal taxi" on a vacation. Answering Priyanka Gandhi's attack on the party over the issue of demonetisation, Singh retorted with a mention of corruption cases against her husband Robert Vadra. "If Congress has courage, they should fight the election on development and corruption of Robert Vadra," he said. The BJP candidate from Bihar's Begusarai also took a swipe at Chandrababu Naidu and Rahul Gandhi over a meeting of two leaders. "It is not a meeting to form the government, but it is a meeting on how to avoid going to jail." Five of the seven phases of polling are over in Bihar, while Begusarai will vote on April 29. BJP heavyweight Giriraj Singh is up against CPI's candidate Kanhaiya Kumar, a former JNU student leader. Keep yourself updated on Lok Sabha Elections 2019 with our round-the-clock coverage -- breaking news, updates, analyses et all. Happy reading. Bengaluru: The Karnataka government accused the Centre of being "anti-poor", saying it did not release dues of Rs 1,697 crore under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme to the state government. "This scheme is meant for the economically weaker section in the rural areas," Karnataka Minister for Rural Development Krishna Byre Gowda said. Gowda lamented that the centre was not supporting the state government in relief works. Of the Rs 1,697 crore, which is yet to come from the centre, Rs 856 crore is pending for the past three years. He said the amount was not a grant but related to works mandated under the Act, which comprises check-dams, Anganwadi and school compound walls. The centre's 'indifference' forced the state government to make payments in the form of loans, Gowda pointed out. He even accused the centre of being partial, saying the Centre released Rs 4,000 crore to Maharashtra which has the BJP government. The minister targeted certain publications for writing"negative" reports about the state government on drought relief works without knowing facts. "Some publications are repeatedly writing that the state government was not releasing the balance amount. It gives rise to questions whether you are advocating on behalf of the centre," Gowda said. The Election Commission has exempted the state government from the purview of the model code of conduct for elections for carrying out drought relief works in the severe drought affected regions of the state. Subsequently, the Karnataka government, on Thursday, took decisions pertaining to drinking water supply, job creation and fodder for animals in arid regions. As a relief measure, each drought-hit tehsil has been given an additional Rs Two crore whereas Rs 324 crore has been released for drought-hit districts, Gowda said. While last year Rs 2,800 crore were given for drought relief work, this year Rs 3,600 crore action plan has been prepared and Rs 200 crore were released immediately, the minister said. Ashoka claimed that Siddaramaiah has a grudge against the JD(S)leadership for expelling him from the party, and is now unableto digest Kumaraswamy and Deve Gowda enjoying power. (Photo: File) Bengaluru: Karnataka BJP leaders Thursday slammed ruling Congress-JD(S) coordination committee Chief Siddaramaaih for his Chief Ministerial ambitions and accused him of fixing a "time bomb" to the coalition governmentthat would explode after Lok Sabha poll results on May 23. They alleged that Siddaramaiah was "daydreaming" about becoming Chief Minister once again. "I'm saying this on behalf of the party (BJP), we will not make any attempts to bring this government down. We are not preparing any sketch for it," former deputy chief minister R Ashoka told reporters in Bidar. Ashoka claimed that Siddaramaiah has a grudge against the JD(S)leadership for expelling him from the party, and is now unableto digest Kumaraswamy and Deve Gowda enjoying power. "He (Siddaramaiah) is taking revenge in Mandya (whereKumaraswamy's son Nikhil is candidate), and if any one has fixed a time bomb or atom bomb to this government after May 23 results, it is Siddaramiah and team," he said. For the last couple of days, several Congress leaders, including ministers in the Kumaraswamy government, have pitched for Siddaramaiah becoming the CM again. Siddaramaiah on Wednesday clarified that a few Congress leaders are pitching for making him Chief Minister out of "affection", and ruled out the possibility of any change in the top post held by Kumaraswamy. A stung JD(S) had termed the demand as "unreasonable" and ruled out any possibility of Siddaramaiah becoming Chief Minister immediately. Kumaraswamy also reportedly expressed his displeasureabout the development to Congress leaders, who met him Wednesdayevening, and asked them to restrain party leaders frompublicly making statements on the post of Chief Minister as it was embarrassing the government and him. Another former deputychief minister and senior BJP leader K S Eshwarappa said Thursday that Siddaramaiah was "daydreaming" about the Chief Minister's Chair. "He(Siddaramaiah) is making four to five people to publicly state that Siddaramaiah has to be come Chief Minister once again," Eshwarappa said. Talks about Siddaramaiah as chief minister once again, have emerged amid reports that the Congress in Karnataka was preparing for assembly polls after the Lok Sabha election results, which party leaders have rubbished. However, there are discussions within political circles that any adverse results for the coalition in the LokSabha polls, which they fought in alliance, would have its implications on the Kumaraswamy-led government. Despite, KPCC chief Dinesh Gundu Rao asking Congress men not to make any statement on the Chief Minister's post, Congress leader and Kumaraswamy's bte noire Cheluvarayaswamy Thursday said, people across party and community lines desire Siddaramaaih should be Chief Minister, but no one has said- change the CM immediately. He, however, said, "....remaining as Chief Minister orlosing the post will depend on the conduct of Kumaraswamy andnot any Congress men or leader." Reacting to this, JD(S) leader and minister C SPuttaraju said the JD(S) and the Congress together have named Kumaraswamy as Chief Minister for five year's term and the question of making Siddaramaiah Chief Minister will arise only after the term is over. The issue also reportedly came up for informal discussion during the cabinet meeting Thursday, duringwhich several JD(S) Ministers are said to have expressed their displeasure on the clamour for Siddaramaiah as Chief Minister, when the post was not vacant. Keep yourself updated on Lok Sabha Elections 2019 with our round-the-clock coverage -- breaking news, updates, analyses et all. Happy reading. The saffron party's state unit has so far filed as many as 272 complaints before the Karnataka Chief Election Officer (CEO). This is for the first time that the party has brought the matter to the ECI. (Photo: File) New Delhi: A Karnataka BJP delegation on Thursday approached the Election Commission requesting an independent probe into the alleged role of police officers in carrying Rs 1.2 lakh in a government vehicle in the Hassan constituency a day before polling in the state. The delegation, comprising BJP national general secretary Muralidhar Rao, party's state general secretary Aravind Limbavali and MP Rajeev Chandrasekhar, informed the ECI that it does not have "faith and trust" in the investigation being carried out by the state police department. "It is a serious complaint. The money was seized on April 17 from a police vehicle in Holenarsipura, Hassan constituency a day before the first phase of the election. This is a serious incident," Rao told reporters after meeting the ECI. The delegation demanded an independent inquiry in the matter instead of an investigation by the state police department. "We have given a memorandum and the EC has agreed with our arguments and assured of coming out with a positive decision at the earliest," Rao said. He also hoped the ECI would take steps to initiate an effective investigation by an independent agency, preferably by a team of such officers with unimpeachable integrity and reputation from outside Karnataka. In the memorandum, the state BJP informed that Rs 1.2 lakh in cash was seized from a vehicle owned by the Bengaluru Police a day before the election on April 18 in Holenarsipura in Hassan constituency, from where JD(S) chief and former prime minister H D Deve Gowda's grandson was contesting. "There are strong reservations about the impartiality and fairness in the investigation by the Karnataka state police. No purpose would be served in continuing with the investigation by the state police as any such investigation would be a mere eye-wash exercise," the party said. The BJP also requested the ECI to collate and assess all such information regarding election-related malpractices of unlawful usage of state machinery and unaccounted money in the state and seek a thorough, independent and effective investigation into the matter. "The unlawful use of state machinery to transport sizeable amount of unaccounted money during elections forms only the tip of the iceberg of what could possibly be the biggest and almost detrimental instance of constitutional subterfuge," it added. The state BJP said it had to approach the ECI as the Karnataka CEO did not take any action despite the complaint. The saffron party's state unit has so far filed as many as 272 complaints before the Karnataka Chief Election Officer (CEO). This is for the first time that the party has brought the matter to the ECI. Keep yourself updated on Lok Sabha Elections 2019 with our round-the-clock coverage -- breaking news, updates, analyses et all. Happy reading. Modi said that how much the TMC supremo is worried can be understood by the language being used by her. (Photo: ANI twitter) Purulia: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday hit back at West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and said that her "slap" will be a blessing for him. "I have been told that here Didi has said that she wants to slap Modi. Mamata Didi I call you 'Didi', respect you. Your slap will become a blessing for me. I am ready to take that)," Prime Minister Modi said while addressing a rally here. "But I will also say that you won't feel scared if you would have dared to slap those who, in the name of chit fund, looted the money of poor people," he added. Mamata Banerjee had on Tuesday accused Prime Minister Modi of lying and said when he attacked her party of being a "tolabaaz" (toll collector), she wanted to give him a "tight slap of democracy." Speaking at the rally on Thursday, Modi gave an assurance that the "infiltrators that 'Didi' and TMC have made their cadres will be identified. Those who trouble our daughters and the cultured Bengalis here, they will be identified." "Not enough days are left for those, who have turned 'Gantantra' (republic) into 'Gundatantra' in West Bengal," he said. Earlier in the day on Thursday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is insulting the Constitution by saying that she is not ready to accept him as the Prime Minister of the country. Addressing a rally in West Bengal's Bankura here, Modi said "Didi (Banerjee) is publicly saying that she is not ready to accept the country's PM as the head of the nation, but she feels proud in acknowleding Pakistan PM as that country's prime minister." He said Banerjee was insulting the Constitution out of anxiety of losing the general elections. The prime minister had tried to contact the chief minister to discuss cyclone Fani but could not do so as his calls were not returned. Read: Didi ignored calls to discuss Fani: Modi, What to say to an 'expiry PM': Mamata Banerjee had said in a rally that she does not accept Narendra Modi as the prime minister of the country describing him as the "expiry PM" and that she will talk to the new prime minister after the election results. "She did not take calls from me during the cyclone. The Central government wanted to sit with officers of the state to discuss the situation, but Didi did not allow that too," Modi said at the rally here. "She is not interested in the betterment of the state, but in that of her family, nephew and tolabaj (extortionists) of her party," the PM said. Read: Don't want to share dias with 'expiry' PM: Mamta Modi said that how much the TMC supremo is worried can be understood by the language being used by her. "She is now talking about stones and slaps against me," the PM said. "I am used to abuses, I have now got the ability to digest abuses from dictionaries from around the world," he said. Keep yourself updated on Lok Sabha Elections 2019 with our round-the-clock coverage -- breaking news, updates, analysis et al. Happy reading. Sirsa: Congress president Rahul Gandhi Thursday hit out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi over unemployment, taunting him for a remark that selling 'pakodas' is a job worth doing. Addressing an election rally here, Gandhi claimed that unemployment in the country is the highest now in 45 years."This is Modi's contribution," he said. "Make in India, start up India, sit down India, pakodas, the Congress leader said, mocking the schemes started by the BJP government at the Centre Initially, he talked about Make in India, then Startup India, then Stand-Up India and finally he ended on pakodas," Gandhi said. In an interview last year, the prime minister had given pakoda-selling as an example of worthwhile employment. Rahul Gandhi also accused Modi of spreading hatred. "Wherever he goes, there is hatred. In Haryana, one community is made to fight against the other. When he goes to Tamil Nadu, he will criticise somebody. In Maharashtra, he will speak against the people of Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. People of one religion are made to fight against the other, Gandhi said. He asked the prime minister to tell what has been achieved in his term. "I want to ask you what you have done in the last five years. What have you given to the country?" Gandhi said. He said Nyay, the minimum income support scheme promised by his party, will not burden the middle class. The scheme promises Rs 72,000 per year to the poorest families in the country. I am giving you the guarantee that not even a single penny will be charged from the middle class and they will not be taxed for the Nyay scheme, he said. The opposition leader said funds for the scheme will come from the pockets of those rich industrialists who have been given undue favours under the Modi regime. The BJP, which has criticised the scheme, has sought to know how it will be funded. Gandhi was addressing the rally in support of Haryana Congress president Ashok Tanwar, who is contesting from Sirsa. Tanwar is pitted against Indian National Lok Dal's sitting MP Charanjeet Singh Rori and Bharatiya Janata Party's Sunita Duggal. Ghulam Nabi Azad, the Congress general secretary in charge of Haryana, also addressed the meeting. Polling for Haryana's 10 Lok Sabha seats will be held in the sixth phase on May 12. Keep yourself updated on Lok Sabha Elections 2019 with our round-the-clock coverage -- breaking news, updates, analysis et al. Happy reading. Hyderabad: If future political combinations work out as is being speculated now, there will be a peculiar political situation in the Telugu states after the Lok Sabha elections. Arch-rivals TRS president K. Chandrasekhar Rao, Telugu Desam chief N. Chandrababu Naidu and YSR Congress supremo Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy will find themselves on the same side at the national level. Mr Naidu is openly supporting the Congress and the UPA. He will not support the BJP or the NDA at any cost in the event of a hung Lok Sabha. After his break with the BJP, Mr Naidu has been frequently meeting Congress president Rahul Gandhi whenever goes to Delhi. According to TRS insiders, Mr Rao is now in favour of the Congress. To form the Federal Front government at the Centre, the TRS requires the support of the Congress, Mr Rao feels. TRS sources said Mr Rao would prefer the Congress to the BJP to take support to from the Federal Front government. If necessary, Mr Rao will support the UPA led by the Congress to form government at the Centre. Mr Jagan Mohan Reddy has said he will support any party which will give special category status to Andhra Pradesh, the Congress has assured that it will grant the status. If Mr Reddy wants to support the BJP which has categorically refused special status to AP, he will face political trouble. He has to support the Federal Front or the UPA to form government. Mr Rao has stated that Mr Reddy will support the Federal Front. If the Congress finds it difficult to form government with the UPA, Mr Naidu will have to support the Federal Front to stall the BJP from coming to power. In one form or the other, therefore, Mr Rao, Mr Naidu and Mr Jagan will either back the Federal Front or the UPA or join either formation. The TRS and the YSRC may not join as partners of the UPA may may extend support from outside. Whichever way it pans out, as things stand now, they will all be on the same side. Go Slow Work in Progress has been and continues to be an innocuous signboard on motorways under repair; but was enough to trigger the imagination and wit of legendary cartoonist R.K. Laxman to make his common man and change it to GO Slow Work in Progress. I am reminded of this while experiencing the agony of our ongoing parliamentary election process which appears to be in slow motion it began on March 18, 2019, with a statutory notification and will end on May 23 with the declaration of results the total number of days for completing the process in seven phases being 66 days, a record of sorts. In the meanwhile, governmental activities in the country are in limbo the Code of Conduct providing a perfect alibi to shirkers. The law prescribes a minimum of 22 days from the last date for filing of nomination to the date of polling. The balance is consumed by the Election Commission (EC) to ensure that the process is free and fair. Yes, the logistics involved in ensuring peaceful polling are time-consuming, but should not take as much time as we are experiencing. The previous Lok Sabha election in 2014 was in nine phases, but the time taken from April 7 to May 12 was a total of 35 days. The election in 2010 in five phases consumed a total of 26 days. The 2004 election, between September 7 and October 3, consumed just 25 days. Elections are inevitable, but are accompanied by a strange low in political discourse. During campaigning, bad-mouthing opponents appears to be the order of the day, which leave scars that last beyond the elections. In addition, political corruption is traceable directly to election expenses so is black money and a whole host of associated problems. The vicious cycle of economic offences, capturing of political power and indulging in more corruption to remain in power and to regain it periodically has a devastating effect on the nation. During the last two decades or so there have been elections round the year in some part of India or the other, and elections in any part are capable of fouling the atmosphere throughout the country. That is why well-meaning citizens have been advocating simultaneous elections to the state Assemblies and to the Parliament so that the damage is restricted to a short period once in five years. In fact, that was so in India till the late 1960s. But then the culture of frequent imposition of Presidents rule in states that were not ruled by parties friendly to the Central government made its impact. Dissolution of Assemblies followed, necessitating state elections to fall out of sync. Thereafter, elections in states and at the Centre could not be synchronised. Restoring the situation may require constitutional changes touching upon the federal character of India. That is a long and tedious process and practically impossible to accomplish in the present political climate. In democracies like the United States, there are no by-elections for filling unexpected casual vacancies there are in-built mechanisms for that purpose. Being a true federal set-up, the Central government is not concerned with state elections. That is why all elections there are held on schedule. In the UK, there are no states, and thus, no state elections to contend with. The situation in India is unique. Here we have to chart our own course. With the inevitable elections to handle round the year, having an additional election in seven phases spread over 10 weeks is equivalent to holding seven different elections one after the other. Can the nation afford exposure to such an extended toxic atmosphere whatever be the justification? The unending series of complaints over violations of the code of conduct is a direct fallout of the prolonged poll schedule the complaints arise from the seemingly endless series of election speeches. Furthermore, the longer the election process, the larger are the poll-related expenses. The Election Commissions job is indeed tough. S.Y. Quraishi, the former Chief Election Commissioner, said his approach to elections was like preparing for a war. An EC with just about 300 permanent staff members cannot be expected to handle the job. It should have a permanent planning wing composed of experienced police officers in addition to IAS personnel to plan future elections in advance. Those plans will not go stale they may at worst require making some adjustments. The EC can then be ready to hold elections at a short notice, with an emphasis on the shortest possible duration of the process. The election process in India is still in a nascent state. It needs many changes and the EC with a thinktank in place, can periodically suggest the needed reforms. For example, the problem of low polling appears to be beyond solutions. Appeals through celebrities to vote have proved to be useless. The winning candidate in India secures just about half of the 50 per cent or so votes polled, the other half being shared by multiple contestants. Thus, it is the absentee voters who decide the outcome of an election. One easy solution could be not to make the polling day a public holiday in the US, the polling day is not a holiday. Instead, more polling booths should be set up to enable voters to cast their votes near their workplaces. In addition, voting through postal ballots for good reasons should be permitted during the entire week preceding the polling day, authorising post offices or named banks to receive the votes in sealed covers. Appropriate steps can be devised to check impersonations and the like. This will surely take the poll figures to respectable levels. It is distinctly possible that Narendra Modi wont be the next Prime Minister, and Rahul Gandhi is not the only one saying that. Of course, there are two more suspenseful laps to go before the May 23 results come in. As Rahul and others have guessed, neither Balakot has worked for Mr Modi, nor the blasting of a satellite. The Hindutva campaign is clearly missing the 2014 communal frenzy of Muzaffarnagar, which single-handedly delivered the lavish victory to Mr Modi in the vote-rich northern states. On another front, the Opposition has thwarted any potential relief to Mr Modi from Masood Azhars global indictment. Swift comparisons came in with the Mumbai terror attacks when China took a mere 14 days (during the Manmohan Singh tenure) to endorse a similar measure against Lashkar-e-Tayyabas Hafiz Saeed. Rahul Gandhi rarely fails to point out that defeat and desperation are writ clearly on Mr Modis face. A non-political interview was staged with a movie star, in which the leader of a billion-plus people spoke about ways to eat mangoes. When even that didnt wash, his party began to hurl street language at the rivals. Mr Modi didnt even spare Rajiv Gandhis memory, screaming to a rally that the assassinated former Prime Minister had died as a thief. The outrageous theatrics and angry hand-slapping were anticipated in an old verse. Lagey moonh bhi chirhaaney detay detay gaaliyan saahab/ Zubaan bigri to bigri thi, khabar leejeay dahan bigra. (What began with cursing was bad enough, but now youre making faces too/ The visage looks terribly contorted, and thats not good for you.) Suppose this is as good as it looks for Prime Minister Modi. Your days are numbered, Rahul responded with a hug and love to the Prime Ministers slanderous speech. The duel is on regardless of the merit Imran Khan sees in Mr Modis right-wing bearings. Imran Khans views about right-wingers come from a single experience of what Richard Nixon told Mao Zedong in Beijing. For the record, Indira Gandhi and Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto delivered the Shimla Agreement despite their brinkmanship. Dr Manmohan Singh was tantalisingly close to clinching a Kashmir deal when, for better or worse, Gen. Pervez Musharraf was derailed. Does Imran Khan even realise that his assumption on who can solve the Kashmir tangle implies that he too is a right-winger, which he probably isnt though many of his Pakistani critics live with precisely that fear? Assuming that Mr Modi will not get the numbers, what happens next? And this is where Rahul Gandhi worries his many supporters. He has evolved into an impressive orator, and his party has produced an election manifesto that would have impressed his great-grandfather Jawaharlal Nehru. His pacesetter sister Priyanka Gandhi speaks more simply though and thus with greater impact. Her video of playing casually with poisonous snakes after a chance meeting with a snake charmer in her mothers Rae Bareli constituency, and her impish proclamation that her daughter was equally at ease with such minor adventures, should make Mr Modis claim of playing with crocodiles as a child look overcooked if also opaque, like his secret academic certificates. Why is Rahul a worry? He says he respects critical players who are fighting Narendra Modi in the elections, but he wouldnt forge alliances with them, to deleterious effect, some would insist, because the Congress had to pursue its own ideology. If the horse befriends the grass, the saying goes, what would it eat? Thats sound logic. But what is that illusion of an ideology he says he is wedded to? And how is that ideology different from, say, that of Mamata Banerjee or Arvind Kejriwal, Mayawati or Akhilesh Yadav and even with the Communists against whom he has set up candidates while seeing them as ardent opponents of Mr Modi? And how has that ideology bonded with a decades-old former rival like N. Chandrababu Naidu but not others? If Rahul Gandhi does make it as Prime Minister, assuming that the Congress gets more votes than the rest of the Opposition groups together, and he is able to outbid dalit icon Mayawati as a serious candidate, where would he locate his ideology between Nehru and Gandhiji, who didnt always concur on key issues? He could, of course, argue that the times have changed, and India has grown, even galloped. Currently, the Congress could be construed as a party that has learnt to lean heavily on a buccaneer class of mercantile capitalists, a far cry from Japans post-Meiji industrial entrepreneurs in ethics and grit. Is it industry to get a bandwidth machine from abroad, buy air corridors with bribes, and import mobile phones from China to outbid the struggling public-owned telecom body by getting a pliable government to throttle it? To Rahuls credit, he has slammed crony capitalism throughout the election campaign, but going by the experience of Nehru, Indira Gandhi and his own father, good intentions can come to naught if a retinue of mediocre colleagues, hangers-on and poor advisers get the better of the leaders. Gandhiji called national tycoons the trustees of new India. Nehru jailed Ramkrishna Dalmiya, the biggest of the trustees, for fraud, Indira Gandhi nationalised their banks, Rajiv Gandhi warned them to get off the backs of the Congress workers. But Dr Manmohan Singh co-opted them as visionaries of his new India. He declared tribespeople fighting for land and forest rights as the biggest internal security threat to India. He described as foreign agents poor villagers protesting a scary nuclear power unit in their neighbourhood. Rahul should visit Lucknow and see how the BJP has hounded the eminently multi-cultural and secular family of the Raja of Mahmudabad, and the Rajas wife, the daughter of Jagat Mehta, Atal Behari Vajpayees foreign secretary, who now live in fear, condemned jointly by the Congress and the BJP as enemies of the state. Lets hear of Rahuls ideology from Rahul himself and see how it fares against others fighting to defeat PM Modi, for a just and equitable future. By arrangement with Dawn The new OS has the power of advanced Visibility to enhance firewall experience and is suited for Corporates, Enterprises and SMEs. GajShield Infotech, a cloud and data security solutions provider announced their next generation network security solutions, GAJ OS Bulwark 4.0. Enhancing the firewall experience, backed by contextual intelligence, the Bulwark 4.0 goes beyond just application context and gains visibility at different levels, deeper than any current firewall, for ultimate cyber defense. The newly released version 4.0, dubbed Bulwark is more powerful than ever that aims to add greater visibility, Deeper inspection and Better Security. The contextual intelligence engine gains a complete visibility on the Network traffic to implement better security policies allowing you for deep inspection into data by inspecting application and data context. Giving you a better security to understand usage insight and identify data anomalies to protect from zero-day threats. The Firewall offers a host of security features such as anti-malware, spam-filtering, and contextual intelligence among others. The new version of the firmware comes with a redefined UI and a contextual intelligence engine that filters sensitive content and information from all outgoing traffic, be it through email, file sharing services such as Dropbox and WeTransfer, or social media platforms like Twitter and LinkedIn. Commenting on the newly released version 4.0, Sonit Jain - CEO, Gajshield Infotech said, Security is more than just keeping bad actors out of your organizational network and keeping sensitive information within your organization. It also includes having the ability to monitor and control all your IT assets, connections, applications, and communications to identify threat patterns and vulnerabilities. While such visibility has always been a part of Gajshields offerings, Bulwark 4.0 takes it to the next level by offering a much more detailed reporting through a highly interactive GUI Bulwark builds on the existing contextual intelligence technology that prevents all sensitive data, in any form, from leaving the secure confines of a business. It determines the context of every instance of outgoing communication by analyzing factors such as the sender, recipient, the body of the message, and even the content within attachments to identify suspicious behavior. It also enables security administrators to fine tune the rules and filters used for stopping the leakage of private information. However, despite the fortified data security measures, we have ensured that authorized users within the organization can still enjoy easy access to the information they need he further adds. Easing the Firewall Management, the Gajsheild Bulwark 4.0 brings improved user interface that allows easy implementation of policies and uniform search options for advanced search results. Additionally, it notifies you all the time right on your dashboard Top Attacks with its real-time resource information and important threat summary. Click on Deccan Chronicle Technology and Science for the latest news and reviews. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter. Koh revealed that the launch date would not be too late which could indicate that the Fold could launch before the end of this month. It was recently reported that Samsung began cancelling all preorders for the Galaxy Fold and those who wanted the device no matter how long the delay, they had to contact the South Korean tech giant regarding the same. Now, in what may come as great news for Samsung as well as those looking to buy the device, Samsung is believed to be announcing a new launch date in a few days time. As per reports stemming from South Korea, The Korean Herald claims that Samsung is near to announcing a new launch date indicating that the smartphone giant has resolved any issues that were affecting the devices. Speaking on the issue, Samsungs CEO DJ Koh has stated that Samsung has reviewed the defect caused from substances (that entered the device)." The Galaxy Fold manufacturer will arrive at a conclusion on the US launch date in a couple of days. The Samsung Galaxy Fold was scheduled to be launched in the US on April 26; however, the date was scrapped after some early reviews started showing some unforeseen problems. Later, Samsung began sending out emails to those who had pre-ordered the device, indicating that their Galaxy Fold orders would be automatically cancelled if the handset did not ship before May 31. While this did not instil confidence in those who pre-ordered it, the new comments by Koh indicate that Samsung has gone back to the drawing board and issued a suitable fix for the screen issues. Koh revealed that the launch date would not be too late which could indicate that the Fold could launch before the end of this month. While we wait for further word from Samsung regarding the launch of the Galaxy Fold, this should appease those who are holding out for this brand new smartphone category from the tech giant. Click on Deccan Chronicle Technology and Science for the latest news and reviews. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter. 'You see the tariffs we're doing?' Trump told a rally with supporters in Florida. (Photo: File) Panama City Beach: President Donald Trump said on Wednesday that China "broke the deal" in trade talks with Washington and would face stiff tariffs if no agreement is reached. "You see the tariffs we're doing?" Trump told a rally with supporters in Florida. "Because they broke the deal. ... They broke the deal. So they're flying in. The vice premier tomorrow is flying in, but they broke the deal. They can't do that. So they'll be paying. If we don't make the deal, nothing wrong with taking in more than USD 100 billion a year." Trump has threatened to impose additional tariffs on Chinese goods beginning on Friday after China backtracked on substantial commitments it made during ongoing trade talks, top US trade officials said this week. Washington: An 18-year-old US national was pleaded guilty on Wednesday to the charges supporting and recruiting fighters for Pakistan-based terrorist group Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) which carried out the deadly 2008 Mumbai terror attack. Michael Kyle Sewell, from Fort Worth, Texas, was arrested in February, has admitted to encouraging an individual, identified in court documents only as coconspirator 1, to join the LeT. He now faces up to 20 years in federal prison and a fine of up to USD 250,000. The sentencing is scheduled for August 12. According to the guilty plea, Sewell provided the co-conspirator, who he spoke to on social media, with contact information for an individual he believed could facilitate the coconspirator's travel to Pakistan to join the LeT. Unknown to Sewell and the coconspirator, the facilitator was an undercover FBI agent. Sewell and the co-conspirator discussed what the co-conspirator should say to the undercover agent who posed as the facilitator, in order to gain the facilitator's trust and be permitted to join the LeT. He also contacted the facilitator to vouch for the co-conspirator's authenticity and told both of them that he would kill the co-conspirator if he turned out to be a spy. The co-conspirator then contacted the facilitator and made arrangements to travel to Pakistan. In February, Sewell was charged by the FBI with using social media to recruit people on behalf of the LeT and send them to Pakistan for terrorist training. "We stay on constant alert for radicals plotting attacks targeting citizens of the United States, here or abroad," said US Attorney Nealy Cox said in a release. It is not clear if Sewell is currently in custody, Fox4 News reported. The LeT is a UN and US-designated global terrorist organisation and has carried out several terrorist attacks inside India, including the Mumbai terrorist attacks in 2008. In 2013, a US court sentenced David Coleman Headley, an American of Pakistani origin to 35 years in jail for his role in the Mumbai attack. Saji Cheriyan, 49, who hails from Kerala's Kayamkulam, built the mosque last year for Muslim workers living in a worker accommodation that he rented out to 53 companies in Fujairah. (Photo: Facebook) Dubai: An Indian Christian businessman, who built a mosque for Muslim workers in the UAE, is serving iftar meals to nearly 800 workers during the ongoing month of Ramzan. Saji Cheriyan, 49, who hails from Kerala's Kayamkulam, built the mosque last year for Muslim workers living in a worker accommodation that he rented out to 53 companies in Fujairah. He built the Mariam Umm Eisa (Mary, the Mother of Jesus) mosque after he saw workers spending their earnings on taking taxis to go to the nearest mosque to offer prayers during the holy month. Ramzan this year began on May 7. Cheriyan, who landed in the UAE in 2003 with just a few hundred dirhams, hosts iftar for about 800 people including workers and other senior employees of various companies at an air conditioned convention centre in the same complex, the Gulf News reported. "The mosque opened on the 17th night of Ramadan last year. So, I could offer iftar to the worshippers only for the remaining days. From this year, I would be doing it every day," he was quoted as saying by the newspaper. The iftar meal includes dates, fresh fruits, snacks, juice, water and biryani. "I have made arrangements to offer different types of biryani so that they dont get bored eating the same dish every iftar," he said. Abdul Qayum, a 63-year-old Pakistani bus driver, who had iftar on Wednesday, appreciated Cheriyan's efforts. "The world needs people like him. If there are no people like him, the world will end. We are praying for him. Allah will bless him." Vajas Abdul Wahid, an Indian employed as assistant manager with a company, said there are employees of more than 50 companies living in the area. "Senior employees and labourers are staying in separate accommodations. But, when we come here, we are all equal. We pray and have iftar together," he added. The mosque in the East Ville Real Estate complex in Al Hayl Industrial Area can accommodate 250 worshippers at a time. Facilities for another 700 to pray in the interlocked courtyard of the mosque, which will be shaded by the time it opens, have also been arranged. Colombo: Sri Lanka's Catholic Church announced on Thursday that all the Catholic schools will reopen next week while mass services would resume from Sunday depending on the country's security situation after the Easter bombings. The schools were shutdown and public mass services were suspended following fears of a repeat of the April 21 attacks on three churches and three luxury hotels here. Archbishop of Colombo Cardinal Malclom Ranjith in a press conference said that that Catholic private schools might be opened on May 14. However, he said these schools would be closed till Vesak Holidays, if there are fresh threats, the Daily Mirror reported. We cannot allow even a single child to suffer. Therefore, we intend to watch the situation closely and carefully, Cardinal Ranjith said following a meeting between the country's 12 bishops and President Maithripala Sirisena in Colombo on Thursday. Vesak, the Day of the Full Moon in the month of May, is the most sacred day to millions of Buddhists around the world and this year it was expected to be observed from May 17 to 21. However, the Sri Lankan government has restricted the five-day national Vesak festival celebrations to just two days citing the prevailing security situation in the country following the massive Easter Sunday bombings. Ranjith also said regular Sunday services would resume at all Catholic churches in Colombo from Sunday while a special service will be held at Negombo, north of the capital, where over 100 people were killed in the attack. Following the attack, the authorities closed all the schools until further notice. All government schools were reopened on Monday, but attendance has been low despite new security measures. Union Minister Nitin Gadkari on Wednesday warned Pakistan that India will not hesitate to stop the water of rivers flowing to that country if Islamabad does not end its support to terrorism. "The Union government is already making a road map to stop the water of rivers flowing from India into Pakistan," he said. Gadkari was speaking while campaigning for Amritsar BJP candidate Hardeep Puri. The minister said that the government is planning to build six water dams in Punjab, Haryana, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan and this step would solve the water problem enormously. There was water treaty between India and Pakistan in 1960 and its basis was peaceful relations, but if the present face of terrorism is not changed, in such circumstances, India wouldn't take much time to take the harsh decision of stopping river water to Pakistan, the BJP leader said. He said that the excess water will be given to Punjab and Haryana to address the shortage in agriculture. On river water distribution between Punjab and neighbouring Haryana, he said that the issue has to be sorted out without disturbing the water available to Punjab. Elaborating on the development work undertaken during the BJP-led NDA rule, he said that the Modi Government did what was not done in the last five decades. He said that the government was planning to begin double-decker airbus service in six cities, including Amritsar. In order to promote the industry and business Union, the government was planning to build Delhi-Amritsar-Katra Expressway which would reduce the journey time by four hours between Amritsar and Delhi. As part of the Digital India initiative, union government, for the past five years, has introduced several new mobile apps to offer services faster with less bureaucratic interference and also, it has improved the existing apps with better interface and features to enhance user experience. DH lists top seven government applications that will serve you well in getting the services delivered on the smartphone. BHIM Developed by National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) Finance, the Bharat Interface for Money (BHIM) app. It is based on the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) and is one of the most reliable application to make a cashless transaction in India. Consumers can send, receive money or even check bank balance on the BHIM app. Also, he or she can make a purchase on online stores or on brick-and-mortar stores securely. New users can avail Rs 150 cash back for the first 10 transactions. It supports 13 languages including Assamese, Bengali, English, Gujarati, Hindi, Kannada, Malayalam, Marathi, Punjabi, Tamil, Telugu, Odia and Urdu. It is available on both Google Play and the Apple App store. IRCTC Rail Connect Developed by IRCTC Official. It is a revamped version of the old Indian Railways. It now offers a minimalistic interface with simple steps via a swipe gesture, shuffle, select and book. Key features include special ladies ticket booking, Tatkal & Premium-Tatkal quota booking. It syncs with IRCTC's NGeT Web Site and NGeT Mobile App ticket so that users can view, cancel or file TDR of e-tickets booked through the official website. It also shows a live reservation table and also alerts the user of a change in boarding point with timely notification on the phone. IRCTC Rail Connect offers a clean interface to book tickets with ease; Picture credit: Google Play store (screen-grab) Also, users can view the status of e-tickets booked through our authorized Online Travel Agents (OTA) Most importantly, it offers advanced security and yet easily accessible via self-assigned PIN to login without entering username and password on each login. IRCTC Rail Connect is available on both Google Play and the Apple App Store. Digilocker Like the website version, Digilocker offers cloud storage to store important documents like study certificates, driving license and other government service documents. Also, it can be retrieved on the phone to present it to the government official for verification. Users can show Aadhaar card at the airport security point and also show a driving license when asked by the traffic police in any part of India. It is developed by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), Government of India and is available on both Google Play and Apple App Store. mPassport Seva If you are planning to get a passport or already applied for it and waiting for the official verification process to start; then, you can install mPassport Seva app developed by Consular, Passport, and Visa (CPV) Division, Government of India. It shows passport application status tracking, locating the nearest Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) and general information such documents required for verification and other various steps involved in obtaining a Passport. It will also offer real-time police verification status and how to appeal passport office in case of rejection. It is available on both Google Play and the Apple App Store. Umang Unified Mobile Application for New-age Governance (UMANG) is developed by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) and National e-Governance Division (NeGD). Umang acts as a unified platform for all citizens to access all government departments and their services. It provides seamless integration with other Digital India Services like Aadhaar, DigiLocker, and PayGov. The government says that all the new such service will automatically be integrated with the platform. It also supports Aadhaar-based and other authentication mechanisms for service access. The sensitive profile data is saved in an encrypted format and no one can view this information. Umang can also help users get PAN card, check Provident Fund (PF) balance, file IT Returns, pay utility bills (electricity, water, property tax, etc...) and more. Students can also view their CBSE, ICSE results and also check out AICTE-certified engineering colleges on the Umang app. it supports 13 regional dialects including Hindi, Kannada, Telugu, Tamil, Bengali, Marathi and others. It is available on both Google Play and the Apple App Store. MyGov It is developed by the government of India. MyGov offers a single platform for citizens to offer suggestions to central ministries and associated organizations to help them improve existing services. Users can actively participate in new policy formulation and program implementation, as well. It is available on both Google Play and the Apple App Store. Incredible India Developed by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, it is a tailor-made app for both local and foreign tourists. It shows popular holistic destination, revolving around major experiences such as spirituality, heritage, adventure, culture, yoga, wellness and more. The mobile app has been designed keeping in mind the preferences of the modern traveler. It offers in-depth information of the tourist place including government-authorized tour operators, hotels, and transportation facility details, when's the good time to visit a particular place, also important dates of the festival, so that the tourists can participate with locals, native culinary delights to eat and more. Get the latest news on new launches, gadget reviews, apps and more on personal technology only on DH Tech. UPPER PROVIDENCE Dozens of police officers who died in the line of duty were honored for their service Wednesday morning, with some being recognized over 100 years after their end of watch. Uniformed officers from all over the county and beyond met at the Delaware County Law Enforcement Memorial at Rose Tree Park for the memorial foundations 22nd annual Day of Remembrance Ceremony. This yearly event gathered over 100 officers, survivors and county officials to pay their respects for more than officers, their deaths ranging from 1902 to 2013, and affecting numerous law enforcement agencies from the countys Park Police, Delaware State Police, Upper Chichester Police Department and as far out as Lancaster City Police Department. Today we stand together to remember and honor those brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice protecting our community, said county council Chairman John McBlain, standing in solidarity with the four other members of council. We honor those 43 men and women whose names are etched into this memorial. We will always remember their service and sacrifice. We are very thankful that no new names were added this year and we continue to pray for your safety. Delaware County District Attorney Katayoun Copeland choked up recalling her memories of Chester City Police Cpl. Michael Beverly, who died in October 2001 when she was an assistant district attorney. He was the first officer she knew who died in the line of duty. And this day, this sad, cloudy day that Im very proud to share with you, he holds a deep, inalienable place in my heart, and in this we gathered to remember Michael and all of the men and women who have died in the line of duty, she said. I ask you, all of you, to wing a prayer skyward for Michael Beverly, for all of our brethren who are on the move toward the greater good, who strode inexhaustibly toward honor and doing the right thing. I know that day in and day out while we can sleep peacefully in our homes, she added, you, our brave men and women in law enforcement. protect us and leave the sanctity of your own homes you put your lives in danger to insure ours. That is the very definition of a hero. According to the Officer Down Memorial Page, 40 officers have been killed throughout the United States so far this year. None were in Pennsylvania. Approximately 170 officers have died in each of the last few years, according to the site. Wednesdays ceremony included the laying off a wreath by members of the Philadelphia Police Department, officers laying a hat down for each of the officers at their stanchions, and survivors laying roses down at their loved ones markers. As the names are clearly marked honoring those who have passed, there is at least one unsung hero who does not have his own stanchion. Retired Springfield Police Lt. Bill Clark is trying to find more information about the death of Chester Police Officer James McDade who died in 1903, 18 years after he was shot during a burglary in progress. The bullet stayed in his leg and may have contributed to his death, according to the Officer Down Memorial Page. He said a death certificate for McDade could not be found and he is trying to locate any of his descendants for more information. Clark looks to have McDade added to the memorial per the foundations criteria. For more information about the memorial and foundation, go to delcoheroes.org or email info@delcoheroes.org. SALT LAKE CITY Places with expensive costs of living and high home prices can still be attractive if there are a host of things to do after work, suggests a recent study by GOBankingRates that ranked best and worst states for new college graduates. While starting salaries are similar in some of the top and bottom ranked states, the numbers also show that the size of a states age 20-29 population bracket is important in helping new college grads succeed by providing them with a community of peers. The highest ranked states Maryland and Massachusetts offer a combination of things such as affordable rent and a favorable score on AARPs livability index, while lowest-ranked Nevadas 4 percent unemployment rate is one of the worst in the U.S. Utah came in at number 26 on the list. U.S. regions are in a race to win the economic support and talent offerings of new college grads as well as the demographic's potential to enrich areas for the long term and some cities are going all out. During a speech last month at the Wisconsin Rural Summit, David Ivan, a professor at Michigan State University, discussed the push many small towns are making to woo youth and entrepreneurs. An important element, Ivan says, is for newcomers to feel they have a hand in designing their new hometowns, according to the Country Report. Provide opportunities for (young people) to offer their voice in community decision-making, Ivan explains. Leadership in rural places often is the same thats been in place for 15 to 20 years. People sometimes feel that theres not a pathway for them to contribute to whats happening in the community. Ivan also advised the group of rural leaders that this generation of college graduate identifies with quality of place rather than an attachment to an employer. He suggests the concept of a third place factor a place to be outside of work and home as an integral element for communities to develop in order to retain new hires. In addition to being invested in where they live, 4 out of 5 recent college graduates say having a sense of purpose in their work is very important, a new report from Gallup and Bates College found. Younger workers are more likely to seek satisfaction from their work than previous generations, the report explains. If the rate of job growth does not keep up these young people who are carrying a lot of college debt are going to go where the good jobs are, not where the good bars are. Paul Levy, president of the Center City District in Philadelphia This need for work that matters can lead many new grads away from the areas where they're educated, and some city leaders are trying to head off that draw at an early stage in a students education. In a letter to newly accepted University of New Mexico students, Albuquerque mayor Tim Keller made his case for the city and offered incentives for them to stay at the University of New Mexico for college, such as the opportunity to serve on public boards. Young people that are 18+ are every bit a part of making decisions at a city, and city hall, so we want to engage people at the earliest we can engage them, says Carlos Contreras, director of marketing for the city of Albuquerque. Were just encouraging young people to be a part of the solution. Still others argue that student loan debt remains the most motivating factor for a new college grad when selecting a place to live. According to a Campus Philly report, Philadelphia has attracted a robust workforce, but it must continue to provide a competitive job market as millennials age and begin looking for the pay increases of second and third jobs. Paul Levy, president of the Center City District in Philadelphia, explains: (I)f the rate of job growth does not keep up, Levy warns, these young people who are carrying a lot of college debt are going to go where the good jobs are, not where the good bars are. So many millennials want to move to a big city and make a life that looks like its out of a magazine or something. But you cant lay a foundation that way. In Buffalo, its easier. SUNY Buffalo State graduate Sheldon Anderson Many universities are also feeling a push to keep students local once they graduate and avoid the brain drain many college towns suffer. Laura Quebral, director of the University at Buffalos Regional Institute explains: From an economic development standpoint, we want to keep graduates here. Theyre active, they bring ideas, they have energy and their lifetime earning potential is for sure higher. And some graduating students are choosing to stick around. So many millennials want to move to a big city and make a life that looks like its out of a magazine or something, SUNY Buffalo State graduate Sheldon Anderson told the Buffalo News. But you cant lay a foundation that way. In Buffalo, its easier. Graduates like Anderson are good news for rust belt cities like Buffalo which need the economic and population boost from recent college grads. But is he a novelty? An Indeed Hiring Lab study found that the New York-Newark-Jersey City region was at the top of metro areas keeping its graduates (78 percent), followed by Atlanta (77 percent) and Seattle (75 percent). Meanwhile, Riverside, California (19 percent), Buffalo, New York (21 percent) and Salt Lake City (25 percent) were least likely to retain their graduates. The study suggests that understanding what attracts recent graduates to even some smaller cities is important to draw this important group: Overall, we found that larger metros are more likely to keep their college graduates and also to attract graduates from other metros. (I)t is also likely that large metros have a leg up in the availability of such amenities as culture and nightlife, not to mention the presence of other college graduates to socialize with. SALT LAKE CITY McDonalds announced Wednesday that it will be introducing four of its most popular international menu items in the U.S. next month. Those menu items include the Stroopwafel McFlurry from the Netherlands, the Tomato Mozzarella Chicken Sandwich from Canada, the Grand McExtreme Bacon Burger from Spain and cheesy bacon fries from Australia. The items will be introduced in all McDonalds locations in the contiguous 48 states on June 5 and be available for a limited time only, according to Business Insider. We know our U.S. customers are curious about McDonalds international menu items. Because we are always innovating our menu, we are thrilled to leverage our global scale and offer popular flavors from around the world next month, Linda VanGosen, McDonalds Vice President of Menu Innovation, said in a statement released Wednesday. Heres what each menu item will look like: Stroopwafel McFlurry (Netherlands): a creamy vanilla soft-serve mixed with caramel swirl and authentic Dutch Daelmans Stroopwafel caramel waffle cookie pieces. Tomato Mozzarella Chicken Sandwich (Canada): made with grilled or crispy all-white meat and tender chicken, topped with tomato and herb sauce, mozzarella cheese, slivered onions, fresh lettuce and sliced Roma tomatoes on a freshly toasted artisan roll. Grand McExtreme Bacon Burger (Spain): fresh beef topped with thick Applewood smoked bacon, smoky McBacon sauce, Gouda cheese and slivered onions on a toasted sesame seed bun. Cheesy Bacon Fries (Australia): McDonalds fries topped with real cheddar cheese sauce and chopped Applewood bacon. This item is being brought back to U.S. McDonalds menus after a successful trial run, according to McDonalds. SALT LAKE CITY The 150th anniversary of the completion of the Transcontinental Railroad is this upcoming Friday and Utahns will be celebrating the historical event throughout the state. On May 10, 1869, the First Transcontinental Railroad was officially completed at Promontory, Utah. At the ceremony, a golden spike was ceremoniously driven into the railway ties, joining the Central Pacific Railroad and the Union Pacific Railroad. The Sesquicentennial Celebration Ceremony held at the Golden Spike National Historical Park will look back on this important moment in United States history and Utah state history. The celebration, which will include a reenactment, remarks from dignitaries and an original musical production, will be broadcast on KSL Channel 5 from 121 p.m. on May 10. In honor of this historic moment, here are five significant quotes about the Golden Spike and the Transcontinental Railroad. 1. "We want to hear the iron horse puffing through this valley." Brigham Young famously supported the Union Pacific Railroad and was anxious to see the railroad come to Utah. In his Journal of Discourses, President Young stated, Speaking of the completion of this railroad, I am anxious to see it, and I say to the Congress of the United States, through our Delegate, to the Company, and to others, hurry up! Hasten the work! We want to hear the iron horse puffing through this valley. What for? To bring our brethren and sisters here. 2. Without the Chinese migrants, the Transcontinental Railroad would not have been possible. Stanford professor Gordon H. Chang argued this point in his new book, "The Chinese and the Iron Road: Building the Transcontinental Railroad." An estimated 15,000 Chinese migrants worked on the Central Pacific Railroad. However, they were paid less than white railroad workers and were not invited to the ceremony. 3. "May God continue the unity of our Country as this Railroad unites the two great Oceans of the world." This inscription can be found on the side of the famous Golden Spike. According to the National Park Service, David Hewes, a contractor in San Francisco, had commissioned the casting of a golden spike made from 17.6 karat gold. Hewes later donated the spike to Stanford University, where it now resides. The transcontinental railroad was often seen as a symbol for unity in the aftermath of the Civil War. 4. "The railroad was probably the single biggest contributor to the loss of the bison, which was particularly traumatic to the Plains tribes who depended on it for everything from meat for food to skins and fur for clothing, and more. According to an exhibit for the Digital Public Library of America, the railroad also greatly impacted Native Americans. The Transcontinental Railroad went through 15 tribal regions and contributed to the overhunting of bison. Some Native Americans attacked the railway and the workers in order to preserve their lands. 5. D-O-N-E. W.N. Shilling, a telegraph operator for Western Union, tapped out this word in morse code on the telegraph once the final spike was driven. According to the National Park Service, the message was sent out at 12:47 p.m to let the world know that the railroad was completed. Interestingly, one of the railroad spikes was hooked up to the telegraph so that the blows of the hammer could be "heard" across the country. SALT LAKE CITY Outbreaks, disaster and violence are realistic fears facing America. But the country is preparing for them too slowly, with only incremental improvements, according to a new report funded by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. A dozen states, however, including Utah, are beating national averages. For the sixth consecutive year, the United States has shown "modest improvement" in its preparations to face hazards, according to Glen Mays, University of Kentucky professor of health policy and leader of the team that looked at state and national preparedness for the report, released Tuesday. It's a good news/bad news story that finds "uneven progress across the country, leaving some communities vulnerable," while others do quite well. Terrorism, emerging infectious diseases and extreme weather are among the dangers included in the National Health Security Preparedness Index. The 2019 index rates the United States' preparedness at 6.7 on a scale of 10 "a 3.1 percent improvement over the last year and an 11.7 percent improvement since the index began in 2013," the report says. Still, it would take at least 10 years at the current rate of improvement to be ready to face all the potential challenges and achieve at least a 9 on the 10-point scale, said the report. That's simply too long, Mays told the Deseret News. "We know we are facing a growing constellation of health threats because of a variety of things: climate change, infectious disease, risk of terrorism and community violence. All of those are uncertain events that can adversely affect the health status of lots of people." If the nation performed like the best states, with scores that range from 7.2 to 7.4 of 10, it would take fewer than six years to be mostly prepared to meet risks, he said. We know we are facing a growing constellation of health threats because of a variety of things: climate change, infectious disease, risk of terrorism and community violence. All of those are uncertain events that can adversely affect the health status of lots of people. Glen Mays, University of Kentucky professor of health policy Utah was one of 12 states that did better than the national average, scoring 7.2 of 10. Massachusetts topped the list at 7.4. "Conversely, 17 states had health security levels that fell significantly below the national average," the report found. "Utah shows perhaps the most improvement in the health care delivery domain of any over this period," said Mays, who noted "steady and significant improvements in health care delivery," progressive health care systems and "aggressive use" of health information technologies like telemedicine. The National Health Security Preparedness Index was created by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in 2013. University of Kentucky analysts rate preparedness using 129 measures, including the condition of a state's bridges, whether public schools have hazard plans and supplies, the number of health care providers that would be available in a crisis, electronic medical records and surveillance, air quality and water quality testing, vaccination rates and how well nursing homes are staffed, among others. "States and communities have a responsibility to be prepared to respond to health emergencies and to recover quickly from them," Dr. Nany Messonnier, acting director of the CDC's Center for Preparedness and Response, said in a written statement. "Having a comprehensive index helps states see where cross-sector investments and cooperation are paying off and where more effort is needed." Strengths and weaknesses The nation overall scored highest for "incident and information management," at 8.7. That includes being able to send people, money, supplies and information where needed in an emergency. The country also scored well on "health security surveillance," which includes being able to monitor health threats and check the spread of health hazards, at 8.3 out of 10. The lowest rating was for health care delivery, a mere 4.9 out of 10. In many communities, a crisis would overwhelm available health care resources. That's a factor that drags down scores for much of the country. Utah bested national numbers in all but one category, "countermeasure management," which looks at how well the state can store and then distribute needed supplies in crisis. Utah received 5.3, compared to the nation's 6.5. Once you get outside the Wasatch Front, we have very sparse, frontier and remote communities that often do not have depth in either space or staff. Kevin McCulley, preparedness program manager for the Utah Department of Health Kevin McCulley, preparedness program manager for the Utah Department of Health, said the report underestimates Utah in that category. "We do have a very well developed medical countermeasures initiative" with concrete distribution plans and ability to execute on those plans within communities, he said. The CDC supports a nationwide Public Health Emergency Preparedness Program, with funds flowing to local health departments, tribal nations and other preparedness agencies. In Utah, those include the health department's preparedness bureau, the epidemiology bureau and the state lab, McCulley said. Federal funding and support also reach states in other efforts, including the Healthcare Preparedness Program. And partnerships unite private-sector health care systems, long-term care, hospitals, home health and emergency medical services, among others. The state can deploy people, equipment and supplies and bring public and private entities together in strong coalitions to respond to emergency events, he said. But like all states, Utah faces challenges. One of Utah's biggest is largely geographic, McCulley said. "Once you get outside the Wasatch Front, we have very sparse, frontier and remote communities that often do not have depth in either space or staff." Particularly challenging in an earthquake would be the number of hospital beds available to the injured, depending on where it occurred. About three-fourths of the hospital beds in Utah are "within a stone's throw" of the earthquake fault line and Huntsman Cancer Center, the University of Utah Hospital and Primary Children's Hospital all sit on it. Utah could be short 8,000 beds in the event of a catastrophic earthquake, he said. "It would be a heavy lift to engage and move those folks to nonimpacted areas," said McCulley. "So we continue to chip away at that gap ... and every day is one more day we have a chance to figure that out." Similarly, most of the health care infrastructure in the state is concentrated between Ogden and Provo. So if a quake hit the area, people might be moved out to more rural areas, but providing services there could be difficult, McCulley said. Utah has already placed equipment and other assets that might be needed for easy deployment and worked to achieve "operational readiness." Doing your part Joe Dougherty, Utah Department of Public Safety spokesman, said Utah's better prepared than even its relatively high rating would suggest. But family and individual preparations are crucial. He encourages people to educate themselves and each other, plan to avoid spreading disease and develop skills to be resilient in a natural disaster. "We fortunately live in a state of people who want to be self-sufficient," he said. "People have to make decisions on whether they will help or need help in an extreme event. We like to help them lean toward helping others." Utah has many education efforts and opportunities to get involved, including community emergency response team training on how to respond appropriately in a major emergency. That's vital knowledge, because in a disaster of any kind, those nearby are going to have the first impact and the first response is unlikely to come from a firefighter or other professional, he said. Experts say repeatedly that those who recover best are folks with a strong sense of community, who know their neighbors and look out for or check up on people who might be vulnerable in an event. Now we have a system in place that could accommodate whatever's next, and we don't know what that next is. Kevin McCulley, preparedness program manager for the Utah Department of Health If practice makes perfect, Utah plans to be in decent shape. Dougherty said government agencies and community groups practice a lot for how to handle crisis and encourage families to practice, too. Local responders practice how they'd deploy in different scenarios. Law enforcement and Utah Transit Authority practice annually what to do in case of a bomb on a train. Thousands of Utahns take part in the Great Shakeout practice for the earthquake thought to loom somewhere in the state's future. Designated managers in state agencies practice what to do and how to direct others. When the Ebola virus appeared in the United States in 2015, Utah didn't see any cases. But officials took the opportunity to figure out how to handle it, building a biocontainment system for future danger. "Now we have a system in place that could accommodate whatever's next, and we don't know what that next is," McCulley said. "We use the smaller events as an opprotunity to conduct exercises to really put ourselves in that scenario of what it might be like during a very bad day." That includes working with those who experienced catastrophic events, from a hospital CEO in Las Vegas who shared how they handled the mass shooting at a concert to lessons from the west Texas town where a fertilizer plant exploded. "We believe collectively as a nation this is not proprietary information," said McCulley. "We use the opportunity to learn from others who have been through it." Those who want to get started on emergency planning should check out the resources provided online by the Federal Emergency Management Agency and also the BeReadyUtah site, he said. SALT LAKE CITY The Salt Lake Tribune has launched an effort to keep the 148-year-old newspaper in business for the long term by turning it into a nonprofit, funded by donations to a newly created foundation. The Tribune confirmed late Tuesday online that attorneys for current owner Paul Huntsman have "approached the IRS about changing the Tribune from a privately owned business to a community asset." Details of the arrangement have not been fully released, but what has been reported so far is that Tribune operations would be funded through an endowed nonprofit foundation. The newspaper would also change its status to a nonprofit 501(c)(3), governed by a community board. In an interview Wednesday, Huntsman said he arrived at the nonprofit solution after examining the decline in the newspaper industry and finding a demand among foundations and other institutions eager to donate toward preserving community journalism. "There's literally hundreds of millions of dollars out there trying to find their way into supporting nonprofit news," he said. "There's a lot of foundations and institutions and individuals that see this coming and they want to support those news organizations that qualify." Other newspapers with a similar funding model include the Tampa Bay Times in Florida, the Philadelphia Inquirer and The Guardian in Britain, said Rick Edmonds, a business media consultant for the Poynter Institute, a nonprofit media studies institute that owns the Tampa Bay newspaper. The Tribune's proposal is unique in that the entire enterprise would become a nonprofit entity, he said. "In the old days that was considered a little bit risky in terms of IRS approval," Edmonds said. "I don't really think that's likely to be an issue" for the Tribune. Huntsman, too, expects IRS approval of the foundation funding the publication to be faster than changing the Tribune's status from private to a public nonprofit. He estimated approvals could take up to a year. During that time he will remain publisher and plans to have a role on the board that will govern the nonprofit Tribune. The Deseret News and the Tribune share printing, distribution and advertising operations under a federally regulated joint operating agreement, which is set to expire at the end of next year. Huntsman reportedly wants to keep printing his paper as long as it's financially feasible, a position shared by the Deseret News. Deseret News Publisher Jeff Simpson said the days of printing and delivering newspapers are numbered as subscriptions decline. That means the distribution model moves away from print to digital and other products. "At some point that model is just unsustainable and takes money away from journalism. We wont let that happen," he said, reiterating the Deseret News committment to strong journalism, regardless of how it is distributed. While few newspapers have taken the route the Tribune is pursuing, the search for other revenue sources beyond advertising to fund journalism is industrywide. "Journalism has always had to rely on other revenue sources," Simpson said. "Whether it was high profit classified ads before the days of free digital ads or other complementary businesses, journalism has always needed other supplemental sources of revenue." In addition to changes to its business model and aggressive digital efforts, the Deseret News continues to innovate as part of a robust news organization that also includes its radio and television partners at KSL. "We think good journalism, and more of it, is very important for the community," Simpson said. The pursuit of community ownership would be the sixth ownership change for the Tribune since 1997, when the Kearns-Tribune Corp. merged with Tele-Communications Inc. In 1999, TCI was acquired by AT&T, which sold the newspaper property to Denver-based MediaNews Group in 2000. The emergence of online advertising, particularly free classified ads, coupled with the recession in 2008, hammered the bottom line of what was once a highly profitable government sanctioned monopoly for both newspapers. The joint operating agreement is exempt from federal antitrust laws. MediaNews Group responded to the decline by filing for bankruptcy in 2010 and emerged under the ownership of Alden Global Capital, a hedge fund that would become known for cutting costs at newspapers it also owned in Colorado, Minnesota, Massachusetts and California. In late 2010, the Deseret News cut its staff, combined news gathering resources with its sister broadcast company KSL-TV and radio, and moved management of its website under a new company, Deseret Digital Media, which operated the websites of Deseret Management Corporation's for-profit entities. In 2013, Alden Global renegotiated terms of the joint operating agreement with the Deseret News, which purchased the printing presses and offered other financial considerations in exchange for a greater percentage of generated revenue. When Alden Global sold the Tribune to Huntsman, the son of the late billionaire philanthropist and businessman Jon Huntsman Sr., in 2016, the deal was lauded as a return to local ownership for the newspaper. Huntsman said since purchasing the newspaper, he has spent the past three years getting up to speed on the industry, talking to thought leaders and publishers to come up with a sustainable, long-term business model that wasn't totally reliant on advertising dollars. In the middle of that process, a sharper than expected decline in advertising revenue, which resulted in the Tribune cutting about one-third of its staff last year, further confirmed to Huntsman he needed to make a change. "As you look at the different digital revenues coming in, combined with philanthropy, to me that is the right long-term model to sustain local, what I would call more legacy, newspapers," he said. "As we look at sort of transitioning longer term this is basically the obvious direction that we needed to look at going to." I wondered how Rusty Cannons April 29 myview article, Utah should cut its income tax rate, would read. Like him, I question the need for a major tax overhaul, given that we had such a revenue surplus last year. But I feel his argument went downhill when he said, This is why excess revenues, particularly in the income tax, should be returned to whom it belongs to in the first place the taxpayer. Utah adopted the income tax in 1931 to be a stable major funding source for public educationucation. To my knowledge Utah has never had an excess of income tax revenue to support public schools beyond the bare minimum. This year, with the huge surplus, enough money was given to public education for a 4 percent increase of the weighted pupil unit, student enrollment growth was fully funded and there were several other needed special programs funded. But the surplus was apparently not enough to restore public education funding lost the last 20 years because of the 1996 constitutional change allowing higher education to share income tax revenue, and the move to a single rate income tax in 2008. Because the income tax is apparently not providing enough revenue to restore lost funding, at least one of our local school districts is now planning to increase property taxes to give teachers needed salary increases. I dont know why Cannon used North Carolina as a comparison, noting how that state has recently adopted a flat rate income tax which in four years reduced its income tax from 7.75 percent down to 5.25 percent. Utah has already made a similar move. And obviously North Carolina must have other taxes than the income tax, or at least a better way for funding public education. It is ranked about 32nd in per pupil funding compared to our 50th-place ranking. And it ranks ninth in the nation in effort to fund public education (amount of money spent for public education per $1,000 of income), while Utah is ranked about 32nd in effort (before 1996 we were ranked in the top 10). So unless there is a better, more stable way to fund public education, unless higher education is limited in the amount of the Education Fund it can access, leaving sufficient funds in the Education Fund to adequately fund public education, Utah should not cut its income tax rate. Fred Ash Sandy On the average work week, the typical Utah household will receive an unwanted and probably illegal robocall from a telemarketer at least once a day. Some households receive many more in what has become a constant bombardment of intrusion and annoyance that state officials are gratefully working with federal authorities to put an end to. Its hard to imagine that any consumer would have reason to protest efforts by Utah and 41 other states to bolster Federal Communication Commission rules and enforcement policies against entities that use technology to inundate the nations phone lines with automated messages, surveys and solicitations many of which are aimed at defrauding the person who answers. Its estimated that 187 million robocalls were made to Utahns last year. A complete elimination of robocalling would be the preferred outcome of whatever the FCC chooses to do. Banning the use of automated calling technology wont restrict legitimate marketing efforts, though it could make them more expensive. A big part of the problem is that a large number of robocalls are not a form of legitimate outreach, but an effort to lure a new victim into a fraud scheme. Last month, for example, federal charges were filed in a $1.2 billion Medicare fraud operation in which hundreds of thousands of elderly and disabled people were persuaded after answering a robocall to seek a prescription for unneeded medical equipment like a back or knee brace. The government says the calls were made from centers in the Philippines and Latin America. The proposed strengthening of FCC rules would specifically crack down on automated calls and text messages originating overseas. Those who use automated phone technology have argued in court cases that laws passed on a state level to restrict or ban robocalling are an abridgment of free speech rights. Those who employ the technology include political campaign organizations and polling companies. It seems that requiring a pollster or candidate to actually enlist a human to phone prospective voters would not amount to an egregious disruption of protected speech. Regardless of what legitimate benefits robocalling may offer, the technology has allowed for an epidemic of unsolicited and unlimited outreach that, based on the number of complaints filed with consumer protection agencies, is a source of considerable irritation for a lot of phone users. The efforts by Utah authorities to lobby the FCC are welcome and increasingly justified. The FCC says robocalls increased by 57 percent between 2017 and 2018. The exponential rate of increase has likely continued or even accelerated between 2018 and the present. The commission also says in 2018, Americans received 18 billion scam robocalls, many in the category of spoofing, in which the caller attempts to elicit private financial information by posing as a legitimate institution. For a lot of people, the barrage of unwanted calls is a disparaging fact of life in an age of advancing technology. It doesnt have to be. The kind technological wizardry used to facilitate robocalling can be put to the task blocking it. Stronger laws and enforcement policies as Utah and other states are asking for are a necessary step in stemming the tidal wave of unwanted, impersonal and often malicious solicitation. Two decades ago, Pinnacle Canyon Academy, a charter school in Price, had the audacity to start a high school in a wing of a local motel. If you know anything about charters, this really wasnt such a crazy idea. Many make due with whatever facilities are available and leave the glass palaces to the public schools in traditional districts. But motels dont exactly conjure idyllic images of school days and the three R's. Principal Roberta Hardy today likes to joke about how nice it was to have a bathroom in every classroom, and maid service. Desks were set up along each rooms periphery. And yet the school had so many applicants that first year it had to hold a lottery for admission, ending up with 200 names on a waiting list. You have to ask, she told me earlier this week, what was the appeal if you had close to 200 kids whose parents were willing to put them in motel rooms for school? Or, put differently, what did those parents believe was lacking in their traditional public school that would cause them to get in line for such a thing? Thats a question that still resonates 20 years later. The answer still seems as elusive as clouds on the horizon, and that may be OK. Sunday is the start of National Charter School Week, an annual time to pause and look at this movement aimed at injecting choice and innovation into public school systems. In Utah, this began in 1998 with seven pilot schools run by a diverse group of teachers, administrators and parents. Today, according to the latest annual report, the state has 134 charter schools, with an enrollment of 78,384. Charters, it may be safe to say, are here to stay. But it also may be safe to say the controversy over them is, as well. Ask whether they have improved public education and answers dont come easy. And unlike traditional district schools, they can shut down, as may happen soon to the American International School of Utah. The annual report notes that students at charters performed a little lower than those at district schools on state proficiency tests in 2018. That may be interesting, but is it relevant? Who is to say how Utah students would perform today if charters never came along? What is the value of the highest-performing schools, which are among the best in the state? Even these questions may be too narrow. A better one may be, are Utah schools where they should be when it comes to preparing students to compete globally? Sonia Woodbury, a founding partner of City Academy, a charter high school in Salt Lake City, is quick to extoll the great things she has seen over the past 20 years, especially when it comes to helping failing students succeed. But she wonders whether enough thought is going into the future of public education overall. I think we should ask ourselves in what way are we better? she said. How do we want to do public education? International PISA tests consistently show American 15-year-olds ranking in the middle of the pack in science, math and reading compared to their peers internationally. Twenty years ago, arguments raged over whether to use public money to fund private school vouchers. Voters in Utah eventually overturned legislative efforts to do that. Charters were seen as a milder way to inject competition under the public school umbrella. Amid these weighty debates, the value of choice cannot be measured, but it should not be dismissed, either. I speak from personal experience. Years ago, one of my sons felt unchallenged in high school. My wife and I transferred him to a charter school, where he thrived. Another son, meanwhile, thrived at the traditional high school and had no interest in a charter. Our ability to choose may not have moved the needle a millimeter in the argument over whether charters or traditional district schools perform better, but it made all the difference to the success of those two boys. That echoes a point made by Hardy, whose school in Price has lost enrollment in recent years because of a lagging local economy. Unlike in those early days, she no longer relies on bellhops or maid service. Her school meets in a former parochial school building. And, unlike in the beginning, 70 percent of her students now qualify for free or reduced price lunches, and nearly a quarter require special education. I dont want to say we do better than everybody else, she said. We give people another choice. Its hard to argue with that. MURRAY Amid growing concerns about its financial viability, the likelihood of further state scrutiny of its operations and the possibility of additional liabilities, the board of directors of American International School of Utah voted unanimously Wednesday to close the K-12 public charter school. Some board members broke into tears as they voted to close the school no later than Aug. 15. "I think I speak for all of the board members in stating how difficult it is to make this decision. It has not been reached without great thought and great effort," said board chairman Kent Burggraaf. "It's not a decision that has been taken lightly, and it is a very difficult one." A week ago, the board held off deciding if or when to close the school to allow time to study other options, such as contracting with a third party to operate the school. Last week, school officials offered assurances the school would, at a minimum, operate until the end of the school year. The school serves about 1,300 students. Tasi Young, AISU's executive director, said the school's immediate concerns are to help students make successful transitions to new schools and work to end the school year on a positive note. The last day of school is June 7. "We are always concerned about all of our students. They all have unique stories. AISU is a place of inclusion where many people found a home that fit them where the did not fit other places. We will provide them with all the support that we can to help them make that tough transition," he said. Some 150 full-time and 20 part-time employees will lose their jobs, although some educators are already being recruited to teach elsewhere because of the innovative approaches to teaching and learning that have been AISU's hallmark, he said. Current board members and school officers blame much of the school's current financial problems on previous operators. The State School Board staff's review of special education expenditures focused on the 2016, 2017 and 2018 fiscal years. Last week, the school appealed the Utah State School Board's demand to repay $514,000 in state and federal special education funds that state officials determined had been used for "unallowable expenditures." The school has asked the State School Board to forgive $360,000 of that total. The State School Board staff's review of special education expenditures focused on the 2016, 2017 and 2018 fiscal years. The school had operated at a deficit for a number of years but was in the midst of a course correction this academic year, said Young in a previous interview. However, the school experienced other setbacks, such as an unanticipated $250,000 property tax assessment. More recently, the state has been reimbursing AISU as it presents documentation for restricted special education funding. Ordinarily, the state automatically disburses restricted funds to school. This change in procedure brought about concerns over the use of special education funding in previous years so "the school has to front those costs," some $300,000 a month, Burggraaf said. Other concerns have arisen. In particular, the school's relationship with a private school partner Realms of Inquiry. The arrangement could mean another $1.5 million liability due to "state and federal funds that were paid to AISU for local students who were in part, or in large part, educated by Realms of Inquiry," Burggraaf said. That state says it was a "misuse of funds or misuse of the federal government SEVIS (Student and Visitor Information System)," he said. The program is run by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and monitors all student and exchange visitors. Even though the structure of the public-private partnership was outlined in AISU's charter agreement, the details were not "and would probably not be approved at this point. So that creates a financial liability for AISU will likely come to bear were AISU to operate next school year," Burggraaf said. AISU is described on its website as a "public-private hybrid STEAM international charter school in Murray, Utah." Realms of Inquiry is also located at 4998 S. Galleria Drive, the site of the former Galleria Mall. The state's continued scrutiny of the school's partnership with Realms most likely would have meant the school would have been unable to operate an international program next school year. That would have resulted in cutting 15 jobs and the loss of $1 million in revenue, Burggraaf said. There are also concerns regarding possible misrepresentations made to international investors early in the school's existence who contributed some $5 million. The investments were made under an employment-based visa program called EB-5. The EB-5 visa provides a method of obtaining a green card for foreign nationals who invest in a new commercial enterprise, which in this case was American International Schools LLC, a private entity the school has contracted with for management and instructional services. "These investors bought into AIS (LLC) for the purpose of seeking legal status in the United States through the EB-5 process. It was worked on by the prior AISU administration. There's some concern and some potential risk out there because of the amount of funds that were contributed as capital investments," Burggaaf said. "There's a lot of evidence the problems were a result of our school being collateralized for a side venture. When that side venture quit working, all the liabilities that were there have now come to roost on our school," Young said. Young said it is unfortunate that most people know little about the school. If people heard the stories of the school's teachers and students "you would hear a story of innovation, of success of a model that was emerging that could change lives that did change lives. I want that to be the story of AISU," Young added. For the remainder of the school year, counselors, coaches and teachers will work to mentor and advise students, Young said. "We will help them tell their story. We want them to be able to grieve a bit and be able to communicate their feelings and their experiences so that their story can be part of this great legacy of education," he said. Young said he and other key administrators will work with the state to ensure a smooth closure and provide information the state may need to assist its oversight responsibilities. AISU is on "warning" status with the State Charter School Board, which authorized its charter. The school is on the state board's agenda on Thursday, although it is unclear what, if any, action it would take after the school's board of directors voted to close the school. The school was placed on warning status late last year over concerns about its continued financial viability, said Jennifer Lambert, the Utah State Charter School Board's executive director. The school opened the fall of 2014. State Charter School Board granted its charter in February 2013. At the time, the charter school's application stated, "AISU will operate in a fiscally conservative and prudent manner so that the school has the resources it needs to support school improvement efforts on a continual basis." SALT LAKE CITY Two people were charged Wednesday in a disturbing case of child sex abuse in Salt Lake City. Michael Lee Travers, 52, of Diberville, Mississippi, and Kristin Michelle Milsap, 32, of Albilene, Texas, were each charged in 3rd District Court with four counts of aggravated sexual abuse of a child, a first-degree felony. Travers was also charged with an additional four counts of sexual exploitation of a minor, a second-degree felony. In April, a man reported to police that he had received a photograph of Milsap sexually assaulting his 8-year-old daughter, according to charging documents. Salt Lake City police soon discovered four images of Milsap and the girl engaged in sexual activity, the charges state. As the investigation continued, detectives learned that Milsap rented a motel room multiple times between January and April and would bring the young girl with her, the charges state. She would tell the girl's parents that she was baby-sitting at the Salt Lake County motel and needed the girl to help her, according to charging documents. When interviewed by police, Milsap said it was Travers who pressured her into touching the child and he was the one taking pictures in the motel, the charges state. In reviewing messages on Milsap's phone, police found texts from Travers stating that he wanted to engage in sexual acts with the young girl, according to the charges. Travers also sent four images of the girl to another person, the charges state. A pair of $400,000 arrest warrants were issued for Travers and Milsap on Wednesday. COTTONWOOD HEIGHTS Between swim meets, exams and music lessons, high schoolers across northern Utah are devoting what remains of their free time to a different type of activity. Many have joined the fight against sex trafficking that occurs in the Beehive State and beyond. Backyard Broadcast, a national group seeking to raise awareness of the issue, now has seven high school chapters along the Wasatch Front. Chief among its priorities is teaching students that forced prostitution happens in their own state. "The thing about human trafficking victims is they're in your own neighborhood," said Terry Palmer, national director for the group. "They recognize this is happening in their community. It's not Asia or Africa or South America." The thing about human trafficking victims is they're in your own neighborhood. Terry Palmer, Director of Backyard Broadcast Palmer joined about four dozen students on Wednesday to cheer a fundraising effort that netted about $300 to fuel prevention and training efforts. The group includes students from Cottonwood High and the adjoining Academy for Math, Engineering and Science. Since the organization's launch in 2012, student representatives have testified at the Utah Capitol, urging lawmakers to toughen penalties for those convicted of sexually exploiting adults and children. They meet weekly over doughnuts during their lunch period, learning to spot signs of trouble within their circles and also scan for warning signs among other groups. They are routinely visited by survivors of human trafficking, officers who are trained to interview victims and lawyers from the Utah Attorney General's Office, said Preston Palmer, a co-leader of the Cottonwood chapter, which members call a station, and Terry Palmer's son. The Palmer family's introduction to human trafficking came when their daughter Madi Palmer panhandled for a day in 2011, part of a St. James Episcopal Church effort to help teens understand those less fortunate. Chaperones and police stood watch nearby when a man gave her money, then offered to drive her to a restaurant and give her a place to stay. Her mother stepped in and the man drove away, Terry Palmer recounted. Police later told them the driver's behavior mirrored that of traffickers. The experience moved Madi Palmer to start the Backyard Broadcast group at Cottonwood High before attending college in California. "For all the work we did in homelessness, we didn't know much about human trafficking," Terry Palmer recalled Wednesday. A lot of people don't know how common it is. Morganne Skelton The group also seeks to address root causes of the crime. It combats typical notions of masculinity, rebuffing the idea that "boys will be boys" and encouraging male students to give voice to their feelings and treat women with respect, said Logan Oliphant, a Cottonwood senior and station co-chief. Traffickers and those who patronize them are seldom women, he added. "It's the men who have the problem," he said. Ahead of graduation later this month, students in the club paid $5 apiece to take part in a game called Assassin, in which they toss water on their mark and then go after that person's target. (A parent's approval is required). A handful of student winners accepted $10 gift card prizes during the Wednesday meeting and cheered the roughly $300 they brought in from the entry fees. The group has other plans to draw attention to their cause in coming months, including a 5K race in June. Morganne Skelton, a senior who will attend Southern Utah University in the fall, said the club has made her feel a greater responsibility to help prevent concerning behavior that may point to human trafficking. "A lot of people don't know how common it is," she said. CEDAR CITY A southern Utah mother is headed to prison for at least one and up to 15 years in the death of her 14-month-old daughter. Cherokee May Dea, 25, was sentenced Monday in 5th District Court in Cedar City. She was originally charged with murder but struck a plea deal with prosecutors, admitting to child abuse homicide, a second-degree felony, court records show. The child, Gaej Dia, is identified in court documents by her initials, G.L.D. Police said she died of blunt force trauma that caused hemorrhaging and injury to her brain. Dea's boyfriend, Brendan Russell Dalton, 31, still faces a charge of murder in connection with Gaej's death. He is next due in court June 3. Officers reported Dea and Dalton had been arguing on April 13, 2017, before Dalton picked up the crying child and she passed out, court documents say. Gaej was rushed by medical helicopter to Primary Children's Hospital and placed on life support. She died four days later. Dalton and Dea had told officers they noticed the child had a lazy eye earlier in the day, and Dea had considered taking her to a doctor, court documents say. As part of the plea agreement, Dea also admitted to three counts of child abuse, one a second-degree felony and the remaining pair three-degree felonies. Fifth District Judge Matthew Bell allowed lesser prison terms for those convictions to run at the same time as the homicide sentence. SOUTH SALT LAKE South Salt Lake Mayor Cherie Wood wants to give her city's police officers and firefighters a substantial raise but it's a bill taxpayers would need to foot. To pay for it, Wood on Wednesday night proposed to the City Council a 31 percent property tax hike one that would bring in about $1.6 million and cost the average South Salt Lake homeowner an additional $71 per year on their property tax bill. "The city has avoided raising property taxes since 2006 in spite of rising costs," Wood wrote in a memo to the City Council issued Wednesday night. "The increase in property tax revenue will only be applied to first responder wage increases." The aim, the mayor wrote, was to bring South Salt Lake police and firefighter pay in line with what other agencies across the Wasatch Front pay. Salt Lake City Mayor Jackie Biskupski made a similar move Tuesday night, with even the capital city struggling to retain police officers. Wood's memo referenced a recent Unified Police Department salary survey indicating that South Salt Lake officers are paid about 15 percent less than other agencies, and said the pay raise would help South Salt Lake "compete more effectively in hiring new employees and, more importantly, retain experienced employees." But it's not clear whether a majority of the City Council will support the tax hike. Four members of the seven-member council recently sent the mayor a letter asking she cut $1 million from her own administrative budget to pay for public safety salary increases and other priorities. One council member, Council Vice Chairman Shane Siwik, told the Deseret News last week those members of the council are committed to balancing the budget without raising new fees on residents, and they view a cut to the mayor's administrative budget "as the best way to take care of the needs that exist in our city today." The four signees on the letter Council Chairman Ben Pender, Siwik, Councilman Mark Kindred and Councilwoman Corey Thomas represent the majority of South Salt Lake's City Council, the body that controls the city's budget and could have the power to block the proposed tax hike. Pender said the council needs to consider "all options" and he's not going to "rubber stamp" the budget until he's had the chance to delve into the details. "Anything short of that, I think that is a mistake on our behalf to not look at everything," he said. Pender in an interview later Wednesday stopped short of supporting or opposing the property tax hike, saying he needed to dive into the details. "It's going to be a very tough budget year," he said. A crowd of police officers that lined rows of chairs in the City Council chambers Wednesday night cheered after Matt Oehler, president of South Salt Lake Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 15, urged the council to support a major first responder pay raise, saying South Salt Lake is at a breaking point. This is a critical issue. We have to save retention in this city, Oehler said, noting that South Salt Lakes police patrol division has seen a loss of about 30 percent of officers leaving to other agencies. Oehler said the police force was relieved to see the state fund 12 new police officers to help manage the new homeless resource center set to open later this year but he said South Salt Lake needed those 12 officers long before that shelter was announced. Ive been patrolling these streets for 12 years, he said. And I can tell you unequivocally weve been understaffed and underpaid. Oehler said previous, smaller pay hikes have simply kept our heads above water, and we are still the lowest paid public safety agency. To vocalize your support of public safety while at the same time vowing not to raise taxes is intellectually dishonest, he said. You know that theres not the (money) to pay for it and the only way to pay for it is to increase the tax. Siwik, who was criticized by Oehler for considering the option of lowering costs by contracting with other police agencies, said he too wants to simply consider all options before resorting to any tax or fee increases. Wood ignored the council's $1 million cut ask in her budget proposal. After her budget presentation, the mayor explained why she did not include it. She asserted the letter violates state code because those "deep cuts" would "interfere with my duty to keep the peace, enforce the laws, and execute the policies adopted by the council." The mayor also said the letter violated the "spirit" of open meetings laws, saying the "discussion surrounding the demands made in the letter included a quorum of the council, yet did not occur in a public meeting and was not transparent." Lastly, the mayor said the $1 million cut also concerned her because it would impact five positions of which, four out of five are currently occupied by women. She noted the cut would "make dramatic cuts to administration (which is largely female) to fund increases for police and fire (which are largely male)" and could put the city at risk for "potential disparate impact claims" by a protected class of employees. Pender, who said he considers himself an advocate for equality, said he was "offended" that the mayor suggested the council was favoring one class of employees over another. "It's not a male or female issue, it's the matter of the budget," he said. He said the mayor's allegation the letter violates the spirit of the open meetings laws was "not true," noting a quorum was never present during the drafting of the letter. The council set the public hearing for the proposed budget on June 5. SALT LAKE CITY Avengers: Endgame will arrive on Disney Plus on Dec. 11, 2019, Disney CEO Bob Iger announced Wednesday, The Verge reports. Endgame will stream exclusively on Disney Plus, which is the companys upcoming streaming service. The film will arrive about one month after the launch of Disney Plus. Iger said during the meeting that he is very pleased with our Q2 results and thrilled with the record-breaking success of 'Endgame,' according to The Verge. Avengers: Endgame has made more than $2 billion in its first two weeks, including a $1.2 billion opening weekend, according to The Associated Press. Endgame is the second-highest grossing film of all-time behind James Camerons Avatar. Disney Plus will launch on Nov. 12, 2019 and will cost $6.99 per month. The streaming service is expected to have Marvel, Star Wars and Pixar content among several other properties, according to my reporting for the Deseret News. Recent shootings have targeted Christians in Sri Lanka, a Jewish synagogue in California, mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand, and other faith-based congregations. Such acts are tragic, senseless and repugnant. They are the work of individuals who hate, and although far more people in todays world are kind and caring, hatred seems to be gripping the hearts of more and more people in todays uber-violent, belligerently argumentative and toxic world. Public leaders as well as people in private life need to join in not only condemning such attacks but encouraging respect for faiths other than their own. Sadly, after the recent Jewish synagogue attack, there was a deafening silence from certain public figures and members of the media on that horrific event, although many of them consistently tweet and post about such matters. Equally troubling, to my mind, was the oft-repeated, concocted phrase, used to describe the Sri Lankan Christians slaughtered at Easter services as Easter worshippers. It is inappropriate, even ill-willed, to blur and obscure that for which these people believed and died. It would be just as unsuitable to say synagogue goers, or mosque attendees because Christians, Jews and Muslims constitute the renowned monotheistic faiths believers in one God in todays world. To clarify, those killed in Sri Lankan churches on Easter Sunday were Christian worshippers. The term Christian was applied to the early followers of Jesus Christ, and its use continues into our day. It identifies those who worship God and believe that his son, Jesus Christ ... died, was buried, and rose again the third day, and ascended up into heaven (see "Christians" in the Guide to the Scriptures on churchofjesuschrist.org). Jesus preached a gospel of justice, abundant mercy and, above all else, love. Jesus encouraged his followers to repent, be baptized and love and help those in need. He taught his Fathers commandments as well as stipulating judgment is mine that rather than condemn and hate our fellowmen, we love them. Jesus suffered and was crucified for the sins of the world, giving each of Gods children the gift of repentance and forgiveness. Only by his mercy and grace can anyone be saved. His subsequent Resurrection prepared the way for every person to overcome physical death as well. These events are called the Atonement (see the "Jesus Christ" topics page on churchofjesuschrist.org). Because Jesus Christ suffered the penalty for sins, (he) thereby remov(ed) the effects of sin from the repentant sinner and allow(ed) him or her to be reconciled to God. Because of his Atonement, all people will be resurrected, and those who obey his gospel will receive the gift of eternal life with God (see the "Atonement of Jesus Christ" topics page on churchofjesuschrist.org). Forgiveness, love and charity are the essence of Christianity, as myriad respected Christians have taught: Jesus himself, in his Sermon on the Mount, explained, Ye have heard that it was said of them of old time, Thou shalt not kill; and whosoever shall kill shall be in danger of the judgment: But I say unto you, That whosoever is angry with his brother shall be in danger of the judgment. ... Ye have heard Thou shalt love thy neighbour, and hate thine enemy. But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you; That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven (Matthew 5:43-45). Baptist minister and civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. stated, Hatred paralyzes life; love releases it. Hatred confuses life; love harmonizes it. Hatred darkens life; love illumin(ates) it. He observed and is quoted on christianquotes.info, The chain reaction of evil hate begetting hate, wars producing more wars must be broken, or else we shall be plunged into the dark abyss of annihilation. He noted: There is a final reason I think that Jesus says, Love your enemies. It is this: that love has within it a redemptive power. And there is a power there that eventually transforms individuals. Just keep being friendly to that person. Just keep loving them (see kinginstitute.stanford.edu). Renowned Christian C.S. Lewis described how to heal the festering animosity in todays societies in his book "Mere Christianity": The rule for all of us is perfectly simple. Do not waste time bothering whether you love your neighbor; act as if you did. As soon as we do this we find one of the great secrets. When you are behaving as if you loved someone, you will presently come to love him. If you injure someone you dislike, you will find yourself disliking him more. If you do him a good turn, you will find yourself disliking him less. Faithful Christians never need apologize for their faith, nor should they be marginalized by disingenuous labels. True Christians love their fellowmen and seek to do good in the world. They deserve the gratitude and esteem of others, as do all who promote love, kindness and respect. To that end, all men and women should aspire in this world. The month before Joseph Smith was assassinated, he gave a personal tour of Nauvoo, Illinois, to two prominent men of the time: Charles Francis Adams and Josiah Quincy Jr. They were a prominent pair, explained Sara Georgini in her new book, Household Gods: The Religious Lives of the Adams Family (Oxford, 2019), which explores the religious lives of the family of John Adams, Founding Father and second president of the United States, through several generations spanning 300 years as the family members were involved in several pivotal moments in the nation's history. Charles was serving in the Massachusetts House of Representatives, and his fourth cousin Josiah presided over Bostons city council. Charles Francis Adams, a politician and man of letters, embraced a series of what he called journeyings to explore other religious cultures, Georgini wrote in an email interview. In the spring of 1844, he and fourth cousin Josiah Quincy went on a western tour that stopped at Joseph Smiths Nauvoo, said Georgini. The Unitarian men were skeptical of anyone professing to be a prophet and initially saw Joseph Smith as more of an infamous celebrity than someone to be taken seriously. When Adams and Quincy first encountered Joseph Smith, they knew only a few highlights from his life. Charles was eager to meet the celebrated Joe Smith, who had swiftly consolidated both sacred and secular power in a fertile region of the expanding nation, said Georgini. Charles had heard of the Mormon leaders visions and read of Smiths efforts to set down those revelations in the Book of Mormon. Charles had some idea of the formalization of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The degree to which Joseph Smith was politically involved came as a surprise to the visitors. What Charles did not realize, until he sat down with Joseph Smith in Nauvoo, was how adroitly the Mormon tavern keeper had built up local power, said Georgini. He was more interested in Smiths half-finished stone temple, his total control of the Nauvoo courts, and his use of communal tithing to fund Mormonisms national structure and growth, wrote Georgini in Household Gods. The Nauvoo Mansion House was not a mansion in todays sense of the word, but rather an upscale hotel or tavern operated, in this case, by Joseph Smith. At first glance, (Charles Adams) counted Joseph Smith in that number, just another civil but unkempt host who hustled him in and out of a maze of occupied rooms in search of a clean, spare bed, explained Georgini in Household Gods. After sharing a breakfast, Joseph Smith showed the visiting easterners relics associated with the Pearl of Great Price and expounded on the doctrine of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He led them down to the private chamber to visit his mother, Lucy Mack Smith, said Georgini. There, the Mormon leader unwrapped four Egyptian mummies and several rolls of yellow papyri. Next, continued Georgini, 'Joe explained in detail the related holy manuscripts that he had transcribed. Of course, we were too polite to prove the negative, Charles wrote in his diary, against a man fortified by revelation. The prophet also gave Adams a Book of Mormon belonging to his wife, Emma Smith, which was signed by both himself and the recipient. According to a Church News articleabout the book, the notation written by Adams reads: The above is the autograph of the chief of the Mormons who gave me this book at Nauvoo on the 15th of May 1844. The personal attention given to Adams and Quincy failed to achieve the results Joseph Smith likely desired. Despite Smiths best efforts at instruction, Charles never grasped the intricacies of Mormon belief and he resented paying a quarter to see the (Egyptian) cache, said Georgini. Adams inaccurate conclusion at the end of the May 1844 meeting was that Smiths theological system is very nearly Christian Unitarianism with the addition of the power of baptism by the priests of adults to remit sin, and of the hierarchy of which Smith is the chief by divine appointment, said Georgini, quoting Charless diary. Notwithstanding the ups and downs of the encounter, Adams reflected positively upon the trip and the opportunity to meet with Joseph Smith. Adams mulled the Mormon lesson of his high-speed tour through western Christianity, said Georgini. On the whole I was glad I had been, he wrote. Akere & Commonwealth delegation led by Ms. Katalaina Sapolu Twitter Akere Muna, former presidential candidate in Cameroon held heart-to-heart talks with top Commonwealth officials Saturday, May 4, 2019 in Yaounde. The onetime president of the Cameroon Bar Association used the audience to bare the socio-political situation in the country - the Anglophone Crisis and the detention of opposition leader Maurice Kamto. "Ended a meeting of almost 2 hrs with a Commonwealth delegation led by the Director of the Governance and Peace Directorate Ms. Katalaina Sapolu. I insisted on the urgency of an inclusive dialogue and the freeing all political prisoners," Akere Muna tweeted. The Commonwealth delegation was led by Ms. Katalaina Sapolu, Director - Governance & Peace Directorate of the Commonwealth Secretariat. Akere insisted on the urgency of an inclusive dialogue in resolving the deepening crisis in Cameroon's North West and South West regions as well as the freeing all political prisoners. Ms Katalaina Sapolu is the Director of the Governance & Peace Directorate at the Commonwealth Secretariat, responsible for political affairs, human rights, public sector governance, and the rule of law - including the newly-established Office for Civil and Criminal Justice Reform. Katalaina was Conference Secretary for the 2018 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting, and will hold the same position for the forthcoming CHOGM in Rwanda in 2020. She practiced law as a Barrister and Solicitor in New Zealand and Samoa for 16 years before starting an international career, during which she was Head of Justice at the Commonwealth Secretariat, and Chief Legal Counsel for the African Caribbean and Pacific Group of States based in Brussels. Ms Sapolu holds a Master of Laws (LLM) degree with Merit specialising in Public International Law from Queen Mary, University of London; a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree from the University of Auckland, New Zealand; and Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Newcastle, Australia. It would be recalled that on May 5, 2019, Barrister Akere Muna called for the release of Maurice Kamto and about 200 of his supporters detained in Yaounde since January 2019 during a meeting with the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Michelle Bachelet. Akere Muna used the opportunity to present the human rights situation in Cameroon from his own perspective and called for an inclusive dialogue as the only way out of the current impasse. Hear him: It was an opportunity to talk about the systemic failures, as well as the sad situation of Governance, Rule of Law and Human Rights in our country. "I insisted on the need for an immediate, inclusive dialogue, as well as the release of all those arrested following the problems in the Anglophone regions and the last presidential elections. "I mentioned clearly the fact that Professor Kamto and about 200 others (civilians) facing trial before a military court was a clear example of the government using the courts to settle political scores. "Madame Bachelets background, as one who suffered under the dictatorial reign of President Pinochet, arrested and tortured, whose father died as a result of torture and who was forced into exile before coming back to her country and ran for office after serving as Minister. "With such a background, there is no doubt that Mrs. Bachelet can say I understand your pain. She insisted on the importance of equality and justice. I am sure that the Security Council meeting planned for the 13th of May will benefit a great deal from her findings. It is believed that Akere painted a similar picture a day earlier with his Commonwealth guests. SALT LAKE CITY An American Fork man with a history of collecting money to install flooring in homes but never completing the job is facing more felony charges stemming from claims of unfinished work. Jonathan Glen Pack, 44, was charged Thursday in 4th District Court with engaging in a pattern of unlawful activity, a second-degree felony; two counts of communications fraud, a second-degree felony; and two counts of theft by deception, a third-degree felony. In July, Pack agreed to install a floor at a Pleasant Grove home and collected $4,700 in payment, according to court records, and in October, he agreed to install a floor at a second Pleasant Grove home and collected $790 as a down payment. But Pack did not do any work on either house, the charges state. Investigators say Pack has three prior convictions of theft by deception from 2014 to 2018 for promising to install flooring, but then never does any work, according to charging documents. In April 2018, he collected $2,000 from a Centerville resident, allegedly to pay for flooring materials, according to charges filed in 2nd District Court. "The victim gave him a cashier's check for that amount. He cashed it. He never came out to install the flooring. He further blocked the victim on his phone as the victim repeatedly, week after week, tried to get him to come out to install the flooring," according to charging documents. Pack was arrested in that case when Centerville police posed as another potential customer, documents show. Likewise in June in Murray, a homeowner paid Pack $3,800 for a flooring project, charging documents filed in 3rd District Court state. Pack's criminal history also includes convictions of theft by receiving stolen property and drug-related convictions dating back to 2015, according to court records. HEBER CITY A state wildlife official responding to put down an injured deer prompted a lockdown at Wasatch High School on Thursday. The unusual situation started just after 10 a.m. when the high school was placed on lockdown "due to a threat being investigated by local law enforcement," according to the Wasatch School District. The Wasatch County Sheriff's Office further explained in their own statement that a student "reported seeing a man in his 20s with a rifle in the area of the high school." The school was placed on lockdown and secured while students continued doing regular classwork. After some investigation, police learned the "threat" was really a Division of Wildlife Resources employee who was responding to a call of an injured deer," according to a joint statement from Heber City police, the Wasatch County Sheriff's Office and the school district. The DWR issued its own brief prepared statement about the incident. "A Utah Division of Wildlife Resources employee responded to a routine call regarding an injured deer located in a residential area near Wasatch High School in Heber City. The employee notified Wasatch County dispatch, but did not specifically state that they would be outside of the DWR vehicle with a firearm. We are reviewing the incident, and our internal policies and practices to determine the best course of action moving forward. We regret any distress this may have caused students, administrators and parents. The school district and police said any future reports of threats would be handled in the same way. They also gave a "shoutout to the student that reported the incident," and encouraged students to continue to say something if they see something. SALT LAKE CITY A Kentucky teenager who was banned from school for refusing his chickenpox vaccination because of religious beliefs now has the chickenpox, NBC News reports. Jerome Kunkel, a student at Our Lady of the Sacred Heart Assumption Academy, started showing symptoms of chickenpox last week, the boys lawyer told NBC News. He hopes to be recovered by next week. Kunkel and his family said they dont have any regrets. "These are deeply held religious beliefs, they're sincerely held beliefs," family attorney Christopher Wiest said. "From their perspective, they always recognized they were running the risk of getting it, and they were OK with it." According to NBC News, Some ultraconservative Catholics oppose chickenpox vaccinations because it was developed in the 1960s from cell lines of two aborted fetuses. Back in March, the Northern Kentucky Health Department barred students without proof of vaccination or immunity against the chickenpox virus from attending class at the Assumption Academy, The Washington Post reports. A judge agreed with the health department in April, according to BBC News. Kunckels family filed a lawsuit against the health department, saying they opposed the vaccination because of their religious beliefs, according to The Washington Post. The family said the health departments decision infringed upon their sons First Amendment rights, according to The Washington Post. Wiest told The Washington Post the ban was unjustified. The school shares a building with the Our Lady of the Assumption Church, which has unvaccinated students attending mass even though they cant attend classes specifically. This is a stupid ban thats never going to work, and absolutely ridiculous in this context where they go to church upstairs every day together, Wiest said. We are not at all surprised, this is exactly what we told the court would happen. Over half my clients contracted chickenpox and had no complications, and now they have a lifetime immunity. Northern Kentucky Health Department released a statement Wednesday opposing the idea of actively seeking out chickenpox to receive immunity, according to The Washington Post. While the tactic Wiest suggests may provide an individual with future immunity from chickenpox, this infected person can easily spread the virus to other, unsuspecting people, including those particularly vulnerable to this potentially life-threatening infection, the statement read. Encouraging the spread of an acute infectious disease in a community demonstrates a callous disregard for the health and safety of friends, family, neighbors, and unsuspecting members of the general public. CIUDAD JUAREZ, Mexico For thousands of asylum seekers, there are many ways to wait and wait, and wait at the threshold of the United States. Parents and children sleep in tents next to bridges leading to Texas for weeks on end, desperately hoping their names and numbers are called so they can be let in. Some immigrants complain of shakedowns and kidnappings by gangs and corrupt officials, particularly across the border in Texas. Others have paid to jump to the front of the line; the rest, determined to enter the country legally, wait patiently, even if it takes months. This is what has happened since the Trump administration placed asylum in a chokehold. The Associated Press visited eight cities along the U.S.-Mexico border and found 13,000 immigrants on waiting lists to get into the country exposed to haphazard and often-dubious arrangements that vary sharply. The lines began to swell in the last year when the administration limited the number of asylum cases it accepts each day at the main border crossings, leaving it to Mexican agencies, volunteers, nonprofit organizations and immigrants themselves to manage the lines. Central American families have reached the border in growing numbers since October, creating what is widely considered a humanitarian crisis. In some cities, days pass without anyone being processed, the AP found. In San Diego, up to 80 are handled each day, but the line in Tijuana, across the border, is the longest anywhere about 4,800 people. Each day at each crossing, U.S. Customs and Border Protection officials alert Mexican counterparts how many people they will take a system that U.S. authorities call metering. Then the keeper of the list lets immigrants know who can go into the U.S. for asylum interviews. It is impossible to predict how many. Migrants pick their route based on a best guess of which city will offer the fastest crossing, and which will offer the safest stay in the meantime. A federal lawsuit says the administration is violating U.S. and international law by refusing to take asylum seekers when they show up at a crossing, even temporarily. U.S. authorities argue that processing capacity dictates how many people it can handle. "It's not turning people away, it's asking them to wait," then-Customs and Border Protection Commissioner and current acting Homeland Security Secretary Kevin McAleenan said in October. But some feel they cannot. They try to enter illegally, sometimes with tragic consequences. A Honduran family, arriving at Piedras Negras, Mexico, decided the line was too long. Crossing the Rio Grande, they were swept away; a father and three children, including a baby, are believed to have died. CIUDAD JUAREZ: Black ink, wristbands, and thousands in line A government employee emerges from an office building around 9 a.m. and stands atop a short stairway. A large group of Cubans push forward, eager to learn about their progress in line. "Move back, move back!" she says. Another official shouts the numbers of asylum seekers at the top of the list. "7,449!" he yells, and a man steps forward with identification to join 19 others who will be escorted across a bridge to El Paso, Texas. The sprawling industrial city began its waiting list in October when many Cuban asylum seekers began sleeping on the narrow sidewalk of a busy international bridge. Mexican authorities decided they had to go. Casa del Migrante, the city's largest migrant shelter, is located about a half-hour drive from the bridge. It began registering asylum seekers and writing numbers on their arms with black ink. After widespread criticism, migrants were given numbers on plastic wristbands instead. Some sold wristbands to people eager to skip the line or gave them to others when they decided to cross illegally, said Enrique Valenzuela, executive secretary of Chihuahua state's Migrant Services Center. Others made fake bracelets to cut in line. Arguments would erupt when two people showed up with the same number. "Opportunists made a business out of it," he said. "It was easy to make money from it." In late March, the state government took over from the shelter, taking custody of four notebooks with handwritten names paired with numbers, up to No. 10,221. Names and photos are now entered into a computer; the government created a closed Facebook group that is updated twice a day, so asylum seekers can check how many people the U.S. will take that day. There are currently about 4,500 names on the list. ___ REYNOSA: 'River owners' run the show The challenges faced by asylum seekers waiting in Reynosa, across from McAllen, Texas, are compounded by rampant violence. There were 1,472 murders recorded last year in the state of Tamaulipas, where Reynosa is located. Gunfights between cartels and police occur daily, and the U.S. State Department has warned Americans not to travel there. Few Americans are willing to visit the shelter that maintains the list of asylum seekers, or the other churches and hotels where asylum seekers wait. Jennifer Harbury, a longtime human rights advocate based in Texas, spoke recently to a large group of asylum seekers at the Senda de Vida shelter and met with people who had been kidnapped by cartels. "The owners of the river, you know who they are," Harbury said. Several nodded. Rather than stopping the cartels, Harbury alleges, some Mexican government officials shake down migrants. She said she's spoken to two people who were detained in the basement of a Mexican government office by security who demanded ransom payments to release them. One woman from Central America told the AP that she and her two children had been smuggled from southern Mexico to the Rio Grande for $3,000. But when they arrived in Reynosa, she says, the coyote demanded $1,000 more. She was held with her 2-year-old son in one room of a house, and her 4-year-old son was detained in another. The smuggler released them after six days after she didn't produce the extra money and left them at the international bridge. They were told to say they had been robbed and had nowhere to go. A man on the street gave her a few pesos for a taxi to Senda de Vida. She and her children now wait with hundreds of others, some of whom have been there since January. "I'm still afraid," said the woman, who spoke on condition of anonymity because she fears retribution from the smugglers. "I'm afraid they will see me, they will recognize me, and they will grab me." Reynosa's list, handled by shelter director Hector Silva, has 370 people. Standing next to Harbury, Silva told asylum seekers that he wanted Senda de Vida to be a refuge from the organized crime and bribery outside its white concrete walls. "There is no corruption in this house," he said. ___ PIEDRAS NEGRAS, MEXICO: The WhatsApp List When asylum seekers arrive at the Frontera Digna migrant shelter in Piedras Negras, they are given a phone number to text on the messaging service WhatsApp. They're supposed to send the names and photos of everyone in their group. Then they're told to wait. Managing the list is a local restaurateur named Hector Menchaca, who also serves as the local government's liaison to U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Sitting in the dark lobby of his Piedras Negras steakhouse, Menchaca said U.S. officials call him daily to tell him how many people they would accept at one of the bridges heading to Eagle Pass, Texas. He then sees who's at the top of the list and sends them a WhatsApp message. About 360 people are on the list, with another 200 people waiting to join it because the government has closed it to new entrants for the time being, Menchaca said. "I tell everyone: Live with your telephone. Keep it in your hand," he said. "If I call you and you don't answer, I'm not going to search for where you are." The list includes people from Central America, Mexico, Brazil, and countries an ocean away like Cameroon. They aren't told how close to the top they are, only that they might wait for two or three months. Bernardo Blanco Romero said he left Mexico's southern state of Guerrero because of drug cartel violence and a lack of jobs and chose to go Piedras Negras because it is considered safer than other cities on the border. "I'm going to wait; I have no other option. I don't have money to return," he said. With him were his wife and four children. Obed Cuellar, a subdirector at the shelter, said a typical family stays two nights and three days before having to seek lodging elsewhere. Churches across the city have opened shelters, and advocates rely on a loose network of boarding houses. But many people say they can't wait among them the four who are believed to have drowned in the Rio Grande last week. Cuellar said he met the father weeks earlier when he and his family were at the shelter and decided to cross the river. Cuellar tried to persuade the family not to go. "He said, 'God will help me to cross the river with the kids,'" he said. The Border Patrol later rescued four people from the river, including two children, and recovered the body of a baby. The missing father and two children have not been found and are presumed dead. ____ NOGALES: A family affair Ninoska Marisol Martinez Ortiz cradles her 15-month-old baby in her arms, occasionally wiping the child's runny nose, as she describes the time she has spent in Nogales. She had spent 45 days on the Mexican border town's wait list, which has about 1,000 names on it. She was among several dozen immigrants, mostly from Central America and Mexico, who gathered at a chapel adorned with images of Our Lady of Guadalupe. "How many people have been here 30 days?" a reporter asks. About half of the hands go up. Sheyla Matamoros has been there 48 days. Carlos Quintero doesn't know how long his wait has been. Brenda Nieblas, whose family manages another local shelter, keeps the list of new arrivals. Before she was involved, Nieblas says hundreds of migrants would wait at the border crossing and many would try to rush in when U.S. authorities called people for processing. Now, she keeps track of names and assigns numbers. Most days, only a few migrants are admitted. Some days, no one gets in. When they first arrive, some of the migrants are sent to a Red Cross first aid station like the mother whose 3-year-old wouldn't stop crying. A medical staffer found no infection but said she was dehydrated from the journey north. They are then connected with Nieblas, who puts them on the list, assigns them to a shelter in Nogales and notifies them when their time comes. ___ SAN LUIS RIO COLORADO: 'There really is no schedule' Darwin Mora manages two giant white boards with hundreds of numbers in black marker, each one representing a family or single adult. When CBP tells Mexican authorities how many people it wants, it falls to Mora to have them ready. Each family that crosses or cancels is marked with an X. Mora, a towering figure and fast talker who prides himself on attention to detail, says CBP can call any day from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. During those hours, he never strays far from the boards under a green canopy, which are divided in neat columns and rows. In the lower left corner of each box is a number to represent the number of people in the family. "There really is no schedule," he said. "It would be so good if we had a fixed schedule but, in reality, it could be at 7 at night, 3 in the afternoon. There is no regular number. 'Hey, I need a group of two. I need a group of five.' Nothing is the same." After a large encampment of asylum seekers was shut down earlier this year with more than 200 families lined up under tarps on a strip of dirt and breathing exhaust fumes from cars Mora enforces a new rule that limits camping on the border to six tarps and 15 families. Those slots are for families about to be called, allowing them to be ready on a moment's notice. There are about 900 people on the list, assuming three people per family. Recent arrivals are expected to wait at least five months. Isabel Mola, 29, fled an abusive marriage in central Mexico two months ago with her three sons, ages 8, 5 and 1. A friend told her San Luis Rio Colorado was safe and the waits to cross the border were tolerable. She is No. 306 on the white board and doesn't know how long she will be there. "Some days they take people, then they don't, then it's every third day," she said after preparing a large pot of vegetable soup for at the migrant shelter for women and children where she stays. Mora knows his ownership of the list is temporary. The Venezuelan immigrant is waiting with his wife and two sons and hopes to settle with family in Phoenix after claiming asylum. Mora is training a Mexican asylum seeker to manage the list when his number, 181, is called. "When the time comes for me to cross, he knows everything," Mora said of his successor. "I have total faith in him. You have to pick the right replacement because the list is a big, big, big responsibility." ___ TIJUANA and MEXICALI: A notebook, and waiting for the phone call Tijuana is most experienced with a numbering system, having established one in 2016 when Haitians had to wait in Mexico for a chance at refuge in the United States. Its waiting list stands at about 4,800. Grupos Beta, a unit of Mexico's immigration agency that provides food, transportation and aid to migrants, keeps guard at night over tattered notebooks and hands them over to volunteers during the day to register new arrivals. On a recent Saturday, there were nearly 100 people in line to get a spot in the notebook almost exclusively Cameroonians who arrived the previous day. A volunteer with a bullhorn then ran through 110 numbers to fill 70 slots to cross that day. In nearby Mexicali, Grupos Beta employees in bright orange shirts call out those whose numbers are up. Mexicali a city of about 1 million across from Calexico, California has about 800 names on its list. Two migrant shelter managers said they get a day's notice of the next numbers to be called, but Heidy Lainez and her 3-year-old son, Gonzalo, got only a half-hour warning that their slots 2,155 and 2,166 were up. She had waited a month. "You have to have your suitcase packed," said Lainez, 29, of Honduras. "If you're not ready, you lose your turn. You always have to have your telephone in reach." ___ MATAMOROS: A long wait and 'no space' for families At the foot of the bridge connecting Matamoros, Mexico, to Brownsville, Texas, more than 20 sheets of paper have been taped to a large board with the typewritten names of more than 800 people. The migrants waiting in Matamoros check the board daily to see whose names have been crossed off with a black marker. Some of the names have a line next to them with the word "rio," Spanish for river, denoting that they were believed to have crossed the Rio Grande to enter the U.S. without authorization. Around 50 people can sleep in tents closest to the bridge if they are at the top of the list. The rest stay in nearby hotels, boarding rooms, or shelters. Many who had questions about the list relied on Cynthia Mayrena, a 29-year-old woman from Nicaragua who had been on the list since January with her husband and 4-year-old son. She said she sees single adults and teenagers pass through far more quickly than families. "Sometimes 20 days go by without a single one passing," she said. "They say there's no space there for families." There are frequent allegations that Mexican government officials or security agents demand bribes to let people join the list or move up the list. Several migrants waiting at the bridge said they had not been solicited for a bribe, and that the list was seemingly run fairly, but very slowly. The people who wait in the tents by the bridge have formed their own enclosed community. On a recent weekday morning, a woman from Honduras braided the hair of a woman from Venezuela. A child swung his hips with a hula hoop. Whistles and cheers went up when volunteers from a group called Team Brownsville arrived with a breakfast of milk, cereal, and boiled eggs. But the encampment is a harsh place, especially in temperatures that already hit 90 degrees Fahrenheit (32 degrees Celsius) a month before summer starts. Some people scrape together 4 Mexican pesos about 25 U.S. cents to use the bathroom on the international bridge, and then come back. One man climbed into the Rio Grande to bathe. The country he was waiting to enter was a short swim away, but he stayed close to the bank on the Mexican side. And then he went back toward the tents. To wait. ___ Associated Press writer Cedar Attanasio contributed to this report. SALT LAKE CITY A high school senior was charged Thursday in 3rd District Court with downloading and sharing child pornography, according to charging documents. Herney Pillias, who turned 18 in January, is facing seven counts of exploitation of a minor, a second-degree felony. He is a senior at Alta High School, according to the Canyons School District. Pillias' arrest was the result of an investigation by the FBI Child Exploitation Task Force, according to charging documents. Investigators received information from FBI agents in Milwaukee of a person "trading and possessing" child porn on the messaging app Gliph, the charges state. Using search warrants and subpoenas on Gliph and Google, investigators came up with an email address, according to charging documents. Two other accounts were linked by cookies, including one from the Jordan School District, the charge state. "A subpoena was issued to the Jordan School District for the subscriber information," the charges state. Information collected from Jordan School District helped lead investigators to Pillias, according to the charges. A spokeswoman for the Jordan School District noted Thursday that Pillias was previously a student in the district but for only a short time, and his district email address was not active at the time of his arrest. When questioned by police, Pillias said he had received videos of young children being sexually abused and that "he shared the links provided to him and traded them to others," according to charging documents. Seven images of child pornography were discovered during a subsequent search of his phone, the charges state. A $150,000 warrant was issued for Pillias' arrest on Thursday. SALT LAKE CITY Tyson Fresh Meats, a subsidiary of Tyson Foods Inc., will invest nearly $300 million to develop a food production plant in Utah County that will initially provide 800 new jobs and is expected to expand to 1,200 positions within three years, the Utah Governors Office of Economic Development announced Thursday. The project is forecast to add an estimated $27 million in new state tax revenue over the next 10 years. The economic development office's board of directors approved a post-performance tax credit not to exceed $5.26 million over a 10-year-period and $300,00 from the Industrial Assistance Fund for last-mile infrastructure. The proposed facility will be a 400,000-square-foot case-ready plant, which will take large cuts of beef and pork and convert them into steaks, chops, roasts and ground meat to be packaged, weighed and labeled on retail trays that are shipped and sold in grocery stores, explained Tyson Fresh Meats senior vice president Nate Hodne. We believe Utah is a great location because of the availability of labor and property and the access to highways and rail," he said. "Once built, the new facility will help us meet the growing demand for case-ready meat in the western U.S. From this location, we can get to every place in the West (by truck). The exect site of the facility has yet to be determined. He also mentioned the educated population base along the Wasatch Front that would offer qualified workers for the facility, particularly if it is expanded in the coming years. "We think (Utah) would be a good place for employees," Hodne said. The Tyson Fresh Meats business unit currently has three case-ready plants, operating in Sherman, Texas, Council Bluffs, Iowa, and Goodlettsville, Tennessee, and hopes to open the Utah facility by 2021, he said. While this plant will be the first of its kind for the company in the Beehive State, Hodne noted that a subsidiary of Tyson Foods briefly owned the assets of Don Julio Foods, a Clearfield manufacturer of tortillas, chips and pretzels. The company was acquired in 2013 and sold in 2015, he said. GOED also announced incentives for two other companies. Tech firm Quick Base received a post-performance tax credit of about $1.26 million to expand its operations in Utah, adding an estimated 485 jobs and generating $6.2 million in new state revenue over the next five years. Headquartered in Cambridge, Massachusetts, the company currently has 359 employees serving customers nationwide, a news release stated. "Salt Lake City has become a vibrant technology hub with an impressive pool of talent, which made it an obvious choice as we looked for locations for our second office," said Quick Base CEO Rick Willett. "A second location in Salt Lake City and an increase in our headcount will help us to further serve our customers across the U.S." California-based specialty apparel maker Infab Corp. to expand its operations by adding 90 jobs in the Washington County town of Hildale over the next five years. Founded in 1981, the company designs and manufactures radiation protection apparel and related accessories for healthcare professionals, such as lead aprons, protective eyewear, gloves and X-ray protection products. We searched throughout the U.S. for the best place to expand our operations but fell in love with Utah, its people and the opportunity to make a positive impact on the state and the community, said Infab board Chairman Don Cusick. Anytime we can help a county diversify its economic base with the addition of a manufacturing project, its a good day, said Theresa Foxley, president and CEO of the Economic Development Corp. of Utah. When that manufacturing project lands in a rural community thats striving to transform itself and bring good jobs to its residents, its particularly gratifying. Infab may earn a post-performance tax credit not to exceed $157,951 representing 20 percent of the estimated $789,753 of new state revenue, that can be earned over the five-year period. Kangana Ranaut has seen immense success with Manikarnika and the actress is now busy with her upcoming releases Panga and Mental Hai Kya. The firebrand actress made her debut last year at the Cannes Film Festival literally owned the red carpet. The aplomb she oozed donning each outfit was incomparable. A special mention to the black saree and the bouffant hairstyle reminded one of the yesteryear Indian actresses. This year again, while it is known that Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Sonam Kapoor and Deepika Padukone among others are heading to the Cannes, according to a media portal, Kangana Ranaut will also be attending it. The Cannes International film festival is due to begin from May 14th will see a host of Indian talents this year. According to the media portal, Kangana will be flying for Cannes on May 15th and will be walking the red carpet on 16th most probably. However, nothing is known concretely as to which designer she will be wearing this time but nonetheless we can be sure of the elan that she will display on the red carpet this year too. Last year, Kangana donned a sparkling jumpsuit from Nedret Taciroglu for her Cannes debut. The actress is currently busy practicing and shooting for Panga wherein she plays a Kabaddi player. The movie helmed by Ashwiny Iyer Tiwari also stars Jassie Gill and is slated to release this year. Meanwhile, the release date for Mental Hai Kya which stars Kangana alongside Rajkummar Rao has been pushed for a July release from a June one. The movie will be clashing with Hrithik Roshan's Super 30. Turkish satellite operator Turksat has signed new agreements with Avanti Communications and Kymeta. Turksat has committed to 1.8 GHz of capacity on Avantis HYLAS 2 satellite for the upcoming three years with an option to extend for a further year. The partnership will commence in June 2019 and revenues will be spread evenly across the life of the contract. HYLAS 2 delivers ultra-reliable, high throughput data communications across the UK, Europe, the Middle East, and East and Southern Africa. It will enable Turksat to service 100% of Turkey and other markets. This is a significant amount of capacity on HYLAS 2 and demonstrates the demand in the regions in which Avanti operates, said Kyle Whitehill, Chief Executive Officer, Avanti Communications. Turksat CEO Cenk Sen added: This agreement will enable each partner to grow their business significantly with providing high-quality solutions to different organisations with a seamless connection. Meanwhile, Turksats partnership with Kymeta will allow the operator to provide connectivity in challenging regions where no terrestrial infrastructure is available, across a wide area extending from Europe to the Middle East and Africa. Partnering with Turksat allows Kymeta to provide coverage through their satellite communications with our end-to-end solutions on both land and sea, said Neville Meijers, Kymeta Chief Commercial Officer. This partnership will help further our mission of bringing different languages and cultures together through satellite communications, said Hasan Huseyin Ertok, Turksat Vice President. Kymetas proven antenna technology will allow us to pursue previously untapped markets and applications in satellite communications. As the only satellite operator in Turkey, this is critical to enhancing the service offerings in our nation and beyond. Tanaiste and MoS McEntee announce funding for Communicating Europe Initiative Press release The Tanaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Simon Coveney TD, together with the Minister of State for European Affairs, Helen McEntee TD, today congratulated 25 NGOs, local community groups and others who have been awarded funding under the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trades 2019 Communicating Europe Initiative. Announcing the funding allocation for 2019, the Tanaiste said: The range of ambitious projects funded under this years Communicating Europe Initiative is testament to the high level of interest across all sectors of civil society to engage on EU issues. Projects funded this year include a European Parliament election voter app, a Know your MEP campaign, a project on the role of the EU in achieving the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, projects aimed at adult learners, childrens European Rights online, the European Social Pillar, the EU charter of Fundamental Rights, the European Youth parliament Ireland 2019 as well as a number of local community events in Cork, Galway and Sligo. The 25 successful projects, 10 more than last year, will make extremely valuable contributions to the ongoing debate on the Future of Europe and I congratulate all the groups who have received funding. Minster McEntee stated "On Europe Day, I'm delighted to announce funding of 100,000 to 25 organisations under the Communicationg Europe Initiative. The high level of interest in this year's scheme, together with the variety of projects, reflects the desire of Irish people to understand and have access to quality information on European issues." The full list of successful projects is as follows - Future of Europe Junior Achievement Ireland EU4Youth series of events, Smashing Times Theatre Group Citizens in an Equal Europe series of events, Waterford Sustainable Living Initiative Europe 2030 Sustainable Living project. 3rd level TU Dublin What does the EU mean for you?, UL Communicating Europe through the Media project. 2nd level schools European Youth Parliament Ireland 2019 series of events, CIT Blackrock Castle Observatory Schools Toolkit Engaging Space for a better Europe, The Graduate EU website, Our ladys Secondary School Castleblaney Conference on the future of the Irish border and the EU. Primary schools UCC My Big Friendly Guide to the European Union website. Youth Childrens Rights Alliance Guide to European Rights online, Young Social Innovators Know your MEP. Civil Society Aontas You and EU podcast series. European Anti-Poverty Network European Pillar of Social Rights website, Free Legal Advice Centres Seminar on EU Charter of Fundamental rights, The Wheel European engagement for Irish civil society, UCC Centre for Law and the Environment Two seminars on EU environmental law. Media UL Communicating Europe through the Media project, Europe United podcast series, Near Media EP election radio debate, SuddonSet Cork podcast series, UL WhichCandidate European Parliament Elections website/app. Local Community events Ballinderreen, Co Galway Europe of the Future weekend, Inniscarra Twinning Association, Co Cork Twinning weekend of events, IRD Duhallow, Co Cork Two Europe in Duhallow workshops, Sligo Family Resource Centre Migrant integration weekend event. Further information is available from www.dfa.ie Communicating Europe Initiative 2019 Aontas You and the EU: the voice of adult learners in Ireland Nationwide 5,000 Audrey Galvin, UL Communication Europe through the Media product Limerick 2,500 Ballinderreen Community Centre, Galway Europe of the Future Galway 2,000 Childrens Rights Alliance Know Your Rights: A guide to children's European rights online Online 6,000 CIT Blackrock Castle Observatory, Cork Engaging Space for a better Europe Nationwide 2,500 Europa United Eurochat series of podcats Online 2,000 European Anti Poverty Network Know your Rights: The European pillars of social rights Online 5,000 European Youth Parliament Ireland The European Youth Parliament Ireland 2019 Nationwide 12,000 Free Legal Advice Centres Using the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights to advance equality law Dublin 2,500 Graduate.ie The Graduate website Online 3,000 Inniscarra Twinning Association New Tunes for Europe: Inniscarra Twinning brings a fusion of Breton and Irish music to Cork schools and villages Cork 2,500 IRD Duhallow, Co Cork Europe in Duhallow Cork 2,000 Junior Achievment Ireland EU4Youth Mayo/Galway 3,000 Near Media Co-Op, Dublin Live European Election Radio Debate Online 2,000 Our Lady's Secondary School, Castleblaney The Future of the Irish Border and the European Union's Role: A Peoples Conference Monaghan 3,000 Sligo Family resource Centre Sligo International Concert Sligo 1,000 Smashing Times International Arts Festival Citizens in an Equal Europe Nationwide 5,000 SuddonOnSet, Cork Free Movement Podcasts Online 2,000 The Wheel European Engagement for Irish Civil Society Online 7,000 TU Dublin What does EU mean to you? Dublin/Online 3,000 UCC Centre for Law and the Environment Communicating EU Environmental Law, Policy & Practice Cork 5,000 UCC MBFGTEU My Big Friendly Guide to the EU Cork 8,000 Waterford Sustainable Living Initiative Sustainable Living: The role of the EU in achieving the 2030 Agenda Waterford 5,000 WhichCandidate Department of Politics and Law, UL Helping voters make an informed decision at the European Parliament Elections in Ireland Nationwide 2,000 Young Social Innovators #know your MEP Online 7,000 TOTAL 100,000 Previous Item | Next Item Le PM Dion Ngute Facebook Prime Minister, Chief Dr. Dion Ngute has started meeting with stakeholders in the North West region, during his first official visit to the region, with the purpose to preach peace and continue from where his predecessor, Yang Philemon stopped, though with a new approach. His convoy was intercepted on its way to Ayaba hotel, by women mobilised under the canopy of North West and South West Women Task Force(SNWOT). In tears and on sitting by the gate of the hotel in black, these women wailed over the death of their loved ones, calling on government to see an end to the ongoing violence in the region through a peaceful agreement. Dion Ngute told them he was on this trip to continue dialogue, initiated by his predecessor, although with a different approach this time. For eight days, in the North West and South West, PM Ngute take home message focused on ending violence, where he called on armed separatists to drop their arms. " Armed fighters should lay down their arms, so that we continue to clear our imperfections in peace and security, said Dr. Ngute. He said violence wasn't the solution as it only breeds destruction and regrets. He continued that no single country in the world subscribes to violence and anarchy as it is a sign of irresponsibility. He insists that violence obstructs meaningful consultations and only peace and dialogue can be effective and meaningful. PM Dion Ngute Facing SNWOT Women in Bamenda (c) Facebook Still on violence, he claimed it doesn't fall within the standards of nation building for the idea is primitive and outdated. He further argues that education is the only requirement to fight marginalisation and injustice because when someone violates education, he is unjust and deliberately subjects himself to marginalisation. The Prime Minister called on all to take part in ongoing dialogue efforts, prescribed by the government and be careful not to propose solutions that may be more damaging to Cameroon. He regrets that projects have been on hold in Bamenda because no meaningful development can take place in a violent environment. "The story of secession in the world has often been a story of bloodshed and regrets. No true leader(even you), would allow a country entrusts into his/her hand to be torn apart by secessionists," he said. Smart lighting as an industry is on the rise. Both hardware and software makers operating in the smart lighting space are projected to bring in a market value upwards of $20 billion by 2023. Stepping into this bright future, Dyson has launched its Lightcycle in India, an LED task light that costs Rs 39,900. Now, you may think that Rs 39K is too much to pay for a light, and it does hold true for the price conscious Indian consumer, but with its ingenuity, the Dyson Lightcycle is a truly impressive product. I had a chance to spend some time understanding and using the features of the Lightcycle and heres what I thought of it at first impressions. Build and Design You havent seen anything quite like the Lightcycle. Simply put, I would call it the iPhone of smart lighting, because the design not only lends to its usability, but also adds to its urban aesthetic. The Lightcycle has a sleek aluminium frame that can be pulled up or down to suit a users lighting requirements. The entire frame can also glide back and forth as well as rotate 360 degrees, giving users that much needed flexibility. This, I feel, is something creators would appreciate very much. Since longevity is key to the Lightcycle, it features a copper tube stretching from the LED enclosure to the end of the long upper stem in order to facilitate cooling. A droplet of water travels from one end of the copper tube to the end with the LED bulbs, where it evaporates. It then travels back along the tube, condensing and dissipating heat along the pipe, before returning to the LEDs by capillary action. Owing to this framework, the company claims that the Lightcycles LEDs can last up to a whopping 60 years. Whats great is that users can literally see the copper tube affixed on top of the frame, and the design is such that it lends to the modern appeal of the Lightcycle. The company provides a two-year warranty on the aluminum frame and a lifetime on the LEDs, but like any other gadget, the frame of the Lightcycle could break if mishandled by children or misused by anyone else. That said, I am not saying it is delicate, I am just saying, and a Dyson engineer concurred with me, that the product is not unbreakable. Features and Functionality The Dyson Lightcycle has a brightness range that stretches from 100 to over 1,000 Lux, while colour adjusts from a warm and yellow 2,700 Kelvin to a cool, white 6,500 Kelvin in Boost mode. I can imagine an artist using the Lightcycle for uniform lighting while painting or an engineer putting the light in boost mode to clearly put together complicated prototypes. The Lightspeed allows for precision, something creators and makers crave when they are working with colours, tools and such. There are three buttons on the Lightcycle at the bottom, that allow users to put it in auto mode, in daylight tracking mode, and in ambient mode. A proximity sensor is nestled next to the three buttons. On top of the light, there are touch controls to increase/decrease brightness and colour temperature manually. The power button is also touch sensitive. Besides using the controls on the light, users can also alter its settings and trigger functionality through the Dyson Link app. Here, one can select from a range of pre-set modes such as Study, Relax, Precision, Boost, Wake-up, Sleep and Away. Theres an option to build customised modes as well in the app. Doing this is pretty straightforward and the app has a self-explanatory UI. To use the Daylight tracking mode, one needs to set their location after pairing with the Lightcycle, which then tracks the position of the sun throughout the day to adjust lighting temperatures and intensity. What I appreciated was that the app does not need to read location data constantly in order to do so and once the location of the Lightcycle is set, location permissions for the app can be revoked by users to avoid unneccessary tracking. The Lightcycle features 3 warm and 3 cool LEDs that simulate daylight colour temperatures from 2,700-6,500 Kelvin. When the room is devoid of sunlight, the ambient light sensors come into play and adjust the lighting according to the rooms environment. Pulling the light up and down gets the proximity sensor in play to adjust intensity. However, when I tried this personally, the proximity sensor would not function as desired. A Dyson engineer then told me that for this to work as intended, the proximity sensor needs to have a plain surface below it, for instance a desk or a table. Only then does it know how to change the lights intensity when its pulled closer or put further away. Dyson also claims that the Lightcycle has a very low optical flicker and glare protection, so it does not strain the eyes of the user. The company uses a heptagonal reflector split by a layer of PMMA diffusion film for diffusing light. At first impressions, the lighting was indeed extremely uniform and precise, creating high quality shadows. The Lightcycle comes in two variants, one is a desk lamp and another is a floor lamp. In India though, the desk version of the device is being made available. At first impressions, Lightcycle is something everyone would want next to their bedside, on their desks at office, or on their garage workbench. But given its premium pricing, it would be one of those gadgets regular joes have to save up for and buy. For those who can afford Lightcycle, it is a no brainer, but hang on for our in-depth review so we can tell you more about the device and how it functions in the long term. New gravitational wave-detectors could help scientists solve more cosmic mysteries Gravitational waves are disturbances in the fabric (or curvature) of spacetime. Theyre believed to be generated by accelerated masses, which propagate these ripples outward from the source at the speed of light. In the past, they have helped us understand a good deal about matter and black holes. Now, however, we hear news of gravitational-wave observatories cropping up on Earth and in space. These observatories should help scientists dive deeper into the matter (sorry for the pun). Since gravitational waves are very weak, writes Space.com in its recent article, theyre extremely difficult to spot. Apparently, Albert Einstein himself was not sure whether they actually existed or would ever be detected. But to everyones surprise they were discoveredin 2015, using the Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory (LIGO). The observatory consists of a pair of detectors: one in Washington and one in Louisiana. Each detector is reportedly shaped like the letter L and has legs about 4 kilometres long. Since LIGOs laser-based detectors are approximately 3,000 kilometres apart, it can take up to ten milliseconds for a gravitational wave to go from one detector to the other. Researchers use this time difference to figure out where the waves are coming from. As more such observatories crop up, scientists will be better equipped to detect the source of gravitational waves. One of the newest detector facilities is called Virgo and its located in Pisa, Italy. Even with such a large and extensive setup, only the strongest gravitational waves get picked up by LIGO and Virgo. The key is to have more detectors set up. Beyond 2025, scientists are discussing two advanced gravitational-wave observatories the Einstein Telescope and the Cosmic Explorer, writes Space.com. Theyre expected to be placed underground to reduce noise derived from seismic vibrations. Reducing noise is believed to boost sensitivity to gravitational waves in these detectors. Cover image courtesy: NASA Asus VivoBook S14 S406UA detailed review If youre the kind of user who is absolutely disgusted by slow boot times and unexpected stalls on a PC, then your next laptop has simply got to have the following minimum system configuration: the latest generation of Intels Core i5 CPU, 8GB of RAM, and a 128GB solid-state drive. Remember that that is still the minimum. The problem is that there arent too many laptops out there that will offer all of that for under half a lakh rupees. Earlier this year, we came across an HP 15 that did, and now, weve unearthed another. The Asus VivoBook S14 S406U was launched in India with a hardware refresh in October last year. CPU options include the eighth generation of Intels Core i5 and i7, with the internal storage capacity going up to a maximum of 512GB. The review unit we got is powered by an Intel 8th Gen Core i5 CPU, 8GB of RAM, and a 256GB solid-state drive. According to Asus, this configuration of the VivoBook S14 sells for Rs 44,990. Lets see how it fared in our review. Build and Design In terms of build, the Asus VivoBook S14 is visibly as sturdy as a parcelled masala dosa. According to Asus, the top cover of the laptop is made of an aluminium alloy, while the base panel is made of moulded plastic. In reality, both panels bend like the wings of a commercial aircraft during bad turbulence at the slightest touch. Though careful PC users neednt worry about a thing like this, they certainly have a reason to feel disappointed with the laptops inferior build quality. Great amounts of flex on this laptop While the display opens easily with the push of a single finger, the panel displays a considerable amount of flex when touched and held. Its the same story with the base panel as well. Trying to lift the laptop from one side with a palm resting on the other makes the base panel bend like a cardboard sheet. What makes matters worse is the noticeable amount of play in the hinge, which makes the display bob around a bit when the laptop is in use. While the VivoBook S14 looks like it can take a drop or two in its lifetime, it certainly doesnt feel too rigid when held and used, which could be detrimental to the motherboards structure in the long run. On the plus side, it's really lightweight. Eep! Cheap panels cause structural stress on battery and motherboard too In terms of design, the VivoBook S14 is quite pleasing to look at. The top cover gets a brushed hairline finish, which lends the laptop that much-needed touch of class. The area around the display is coloured matte black, and the area around the keycaps on the keyboard gets a dotted finish in the laptops primary colour. The bezels on the sides of the display measure 8.4 millimetres, which is wider than bezels on the similarly priced Lenovo IdeaPad 330S. The VivoBook S14 is available in two colour options: Icicle Gold and Star Gray. Display, Audio, and IO The VivoBook S14 comes with a 14-inch IPS LCD screen with a Full HD resolution and matte finish. According to Asus, the screen reaches a maximum viewing angle of 178 degrees and has a contrast ratio of 700:1. Colours on the review unit's display appeared mostly accurate in pictures, web pages, and videos. According to our test kit, the display is capable of reproducing 93 percent of the colours in the sRGB colour space and 72 percent of the colours in the Adobe RGB colour space, which is statistically on the lower side. Asus had to skimp on something to keep the price low, so its understandable. Though the screen was bright enough for use indoors, it left me in want of more nits in sunny areas like balconies. According to our test kit, the display manages 232.6 nits of brightness at max setting. It also made me wish it were a touchscreen panel but that's too much to ask, considering its price tag. On the plus side, the matte finish on the display ensured there was no unnecessary glare. In summary, the VivoBook S14's display can be considered fit for work and media consumption with little to complain about. Audio quality comes as a pleasant surprise on the VivoBook S14. Sound through the two down-firing speakers on the Thin and Light laptop is loud and clear. The laptop's SonicMaster-powered setup is ideal for light music and VoIP calls inside a quiet conference room. On the review unit, songs like Starboy by The Weeknd and In and Out of Love by Armin van Buuren and Sharon den Adel played with a respectable amount of loudness and clarity across mid and high frequencies when the laptop was placed on a table. Surprisingly, the drivers were even able to reproduce some of the bass in the tracks with a mild thump. In summary, the audio quality of the VivoBook S14's speakers surpasses that of the speakers found on some more expensive laptopsand that's saying something. One down-firing SonicMaster-powered speaker on either side Though it falls in the Thin and Light category, the VivoBook S14 comes with an array of usable ports. On the left, it has a round-pin power port, a USB Type-A 3.0 port, a USB Type-C 3.1 port, and, strangely, a Micro HDMI port. On the right, it houses a USB Type-A 2.0 port, a 3.5mm audio jack for headsets, and a microSD card slot. The VivoBook S14 also comes with a fingerprint scanner on the top right corner of the touchpad, which works swiftly for sign-ins. Video through the 720p CMOS webcam looks grainy and pixelated. Only Micro HDMI; no full-size HDMI microSD card slot Fingerprint scanner works well 720p webcam disappoints Keyboard and Touchpad Despite resting on a thin and bendy base, the keyboard on the VivoBook S14 is supremely comfortable for typing long documents and emails. In fact, it's one of the best I have personally observed from Asus. At 1.4 millimetres, the keys have just the right amount of travel and resistance. The space between the keycaps too is just right. The keys are backlit with three levels of brightness, which makes it convenient for use in the dark. In summary, the VivoBook S14 has a neat, comfortable keyboard that's suitable for users who type extensively. Those wanting a numpad will be forced to look at larger 15.6-inch models. If anything, I wish the power button weren't placed adjacent to the Delete key as it can accidentally put the PC to sleep. The touchpad on the VivoBook S14 is nearly as good as its keyboard. Being a precision unit, the touchpad is capable of multi-finger taps and swipes without needing any third-party drivers or utilities on Windows 10. Its functions can be modified in Windows Settings. The left- and right-mouse buttons inside the touchpad too are fairly easy to click. The only problem is that every now and then there's some noticeable lag between the physical stroke on the touchpad and the mouse pointer's movement on the screen. Performance Performance is easily the VivoBook S14's best trait, which comes courtesy of Intel's 8th Gen Core i5-8250U CPU, 8GB of DDR4 RAM, and an SK Hynix 256GB M.2 SATA III solid-state drive. The review unit fared quite well in our CPU and GPU benchmark tests. On PCMark 8's Accelerated Creative test, the VivoBook S14 scored 4516. In comparison, the more expensive Asus ZenBook 13 scored 4457 on the same test when we reviewed it earlier this year. On 3DMark's Fire Strike and Ice Storm Extreme, the VivoBook S14 scored 997 and 45436 respectively, with help from its internal Intel UHD Graphics 620 GPU. On the same two tests, the costlier Asus ZenBook S from October last year scored 878 and 38281 respectively. Everyday performance on the VivoBook S14 review unit was pretty good. I was able to use dozens of instances of Chrome along with other medium-weight apps, like WhatsApp for PC, File Explorer, OneNote, Word, Excel, and iTunes across multiple virtual desktops without choking the laptop up. Even though the solid-state drive inside wasn't a PCIe NVMe unit and relied on a SATA III (6Gb/s) interface, everyday document files (as large as 30MB) opened up in less than 4 seconds. Windows too booted to desktop in under 22 seconds, as expected. Copying 37GB of data from a Seagate Ultra Slim SRD00F1 external hard drive through the USB Type-C 3.1 port took about 6 minutes, 30 seconds. 8th Gen Intel Core i5 As is the case with most Thin and Light laptops, the VivoBook S14 comes with an internal graphics card namely Intel UHD Graphics 620. Though it's not really equipped to take on games, we ran some of our test games on the review unit. Metro: Last Light ran on Low graphics settings at an average frame rate of 15.4 frames per second. The much heavier Doom, on the other hand, ran on Low graphics settings at an average frame rate of 10.3 frames per second. While you could try running a few lightweight titles like Ori and the Blind Forest and Portal, you're better off shelving the VivoBook S14 for your gaming sessions. Its simply not designed to run video games. Battery The VivoBook S14 is powered by a 39Wh dual-cell lithium-ion battery that's tucked deep into the laptop's slim body. It's neither upgradeable nor replaceable by the user. In our standard battery test, the review unit lasted 3 hours, 8 minutes, which is on par with the Acer Swift 5. The costlier ZenBook 13 and ZenBook S scored 5 hours, 20 minutes and 3 hours, 48 minutes respectively on the same test. With Wi-Fi and Bluetooth enabled, screen set to 70 percent brightness, the laptop lasted somewhere between four and five hours on a single charge. During one of the test cycles, I put the review unit through continuous sessions of web browsing, document editing, and file transfers. After 3 hours, 30 minutes, the battery had drained from full to 38 percent. While the VivoBook S14 cannot be lauded for its battery life, it can't be criticised either. Bottom Line I personally love the Asus VivoBook S14 S406U. It's one of the very few models in its price segment to sport the right ingredients for good performance. Intel's 8th Gen Core i5 along with 8GB of RAM should keep the laptop up to date until Intel's 9th Gen line-up flows in. Though SATA, the solid-state drive inside makes a world of difference to the laptop's overall computing speed. The compromise on storage volume is well worth the speed benefit gained instead. What's more, it's got a comfortable backlit keyboard and a precision touchpad. The audio quality is respectable too. Build quality is undoubtedly the VivoBook S14's Achilles heel. The panels on the laptop look and feel so thin and flimsy that you often feel you're holding nothing more than a motherboard and display panel together. However, if you're a careful user and don't really care about bendy panels on your laptop, the build shouldn't be a big concern. For its market price of Rs 44,990, the Asus VivoBook S14 S406U is a really good buy. SNWOT at the Bamenda Municipal Stadium last year Facebook Women in Bamenda and its environs are mobilising to welcome the visiting Prime Minister, Chief Dr. Dion Ngute, in wails and tears, following his maiden visit to the region this Thursday. They would be at the Bamenda Municipal Stadium this morning, dressed in black, to denounce the current violence going on in the North West and South West regions, and call on government and separatists to end the war. Reports say the women are being mobilised under the leadershipo f the South West and North West Women Task Force(SNWOT), which carried out a similar activity last year. Prime Minister, Dion Ngute is on a reconciliatory and peace mission to the North West region for eight days. He is expected to meet with stakeholders of the region ahead of the upcoming national day celebrations. He would be meeting private journalists of the North West this Thursday, where he is expected to make some pronouncements, especially on his 8 day visit. Women in Bamenda want to seize this opportunity and address their worries to the Prime Minister, who is expected to channel them to the President of the Republic. The South West and North West Women Task Force last year in August, mobilised over 1000 women in Buea and Bamenda, who made a declaration to the Head of State, calling on him to pity women who are predominantly victims of the ongoing sociopolitical unrest in the Anglophone regions. They mourned for their children and husbands who have died due to the crisis, properties lost, as well as acts of sexual violence against women. They carried placards and peace plants, calling on the government and separatists to find common grounds and speak out their differences, through the holding of a political dialogue. These women have been organising workshop to boost up the participation of women in peace building, and made several calls on government to involve women in peace negotiation deals. Subscriber content preview MAPLE VALLEY The Wilderness Village shopping center, at 22117 Maple Valley-Black Diamond Road S.E. in Maple Valley, has sold for a little over $16.2 million, according to King County records. The seller was Wilderness GARP LLC, associated with Gerrity Group of Solana Beach, California, which acquired the property in 2012 for $13 million. . . . Chef d'Etat CEMAC archives Police Chiefs in Central Africa have been discussing the implementation of a November 8, 2013 agreement signed between members of the CEMAC region and the International Criminal Police Organisation (INTERPOL), in order to secure internal and external borders of the region, so as to facilitate the circulation of goods and persons. They met at Bonapriso, Douala on Wednesday May 8, during the adhoc committee meeting on security and immigration, where they all agreed that securing these identified points, would improve security in the region ,which will facilitate movement of persons and goods, thereby sustaining development. According to Cameroon's police boss, Martin Mbarga Nguelle, about FCFA 4 Billion, will be used to boost security at the CEMAC borders. We have to reinforce capacities, towards securing our borders. That is why with the expertise of INTERPOL, our Heads of States thought it wise, to secure our borders said Cameroons police Chief. He revealed that measures discussed during the adhoc committee meeting focused on both internal and security measures taken by CEMAC. He said countries were earlier consulted in 2013, to identify priority entry points which were later validate by various Presidents of the eight countries. CEMAC's commissioner in charge of the Common Market, Niama Michel during the meeting, said this step was necessary, since it guarantees the circulation of goods and persons. He cited some challenges which had hindered the implementation of the project, but said they are prioritising free movement, despite all odds. Talking about the biometric passport, most members have instituted it and Mr. Niama says in the months ahead, people would need just a National Identity card to circulate within the CEMAC region. Today is the biometric passport and once all is done, it would take a simple national identity card to leave Bamenda to Brazzaville. The 2013 agreement saw the launch of the visa-free circulation policy, within Cameroon, Equatorial Guinea, the Central Africa Republic (CAR), Congo, DRC Congo, Gabon and Chad Sao Tome and Principe, members of the Economic and Monetary Community of Central Africa(CEMAC). Some experts say for freedom of movement to be fully implemented, CEMAC countries will have to introduce biometric identity card technology, ensure regional co-ordination between police and security forces, and co-ordinate labour regulations. The CEMAC region is threatened by rampant attacks from the Boko Haram terrorists group which has killed over 6000 people in Chad, Cameroon and Niger, Maritime piracy along the Gulf of Guinea, the exploitation of natural resources and the illicit trafficking of cannabis, minerals, timber and wildlife. Daniel Craig chomping on cigars. Daniel Craig feeding a cat. Daniel Craig wielding a spear gun. Daniel Craig wielding a PPK in immaculately fitted short shorts. Its all happening on the set of the yet-to-be-named 25th Bond film thats currently shooting in sunny Jamaica. So if you hate spoilers, look away now. According to producers, the film will see Daniel Craigs James Bond having left active Mi6 service in the opening scenes. This probably explains why hes in Jamaica gutting fish and hanging out with local cats like a good retired super spy. The next sequence of photos depict a familiar face though. CIA operative Felix Leiter (played by Jeffrey Wright) who we first met in Casino Royale is also in Jamaica and it looks like hes brought some Mi6 and the CIAs predicaments with him. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Splash News (@splashnews) on Apr 29, 2019 at 7:17am PDT This leads to a car chase featuring a vintage blue Land Rover which director Cary Fukunaga posted on his own Instagram account just a few weeks ago. Theres rumours that Bonds next Aston Martin will be fully electric. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Cary Fukunaga (@cary_fukunaga) on Apr 30, 2019 at 10:05am PDT There also appears to be a mysterious new villain on the horizon with this masked stranger caught chasing down a victim during filming in the Norwegian snow a few weeks back. Could this be Rami Maleks origin? Youll have to wait till 2020 to find out. View this post on Instagram A post shared by BOND 25 | PRODUCTION (@bond25production) on Apr 29, 2019 at 11:45am PDT Most importantly are you keen to see Daniel Craigs final outing as James Bond? You should be because the 51-year-old actor is still looking fit as hell. Read Next Sit the hell down, finish your food, proceed to walk. Its a simple rule to follow but apparently in Japan the locals are struggling to get this message across to heady tourists without offending them. In Japan the act of eating whilst walking is considered rude as it goes against the etiquette of ikkai ichi dousa a Japanese phrase similar to doing one thing at a time. Eat and walk on the streets of Japan and you can expect a public lashingof many frowns. The latest Japanese tourist hotspot to experience this onslaught of the walking fed is the iconic Nishiki Market in Kyoto. For more than 400 years the market has played a vital role in being the kitchen for Kyoto with its vast offering heirloom vegetables, fresh fish and pickled vegetables. These days thanks to the tourist boom, more of the stores have begun selling fast food on skewers and its here that problems have begun to rise, according to the Japan Times. Litter now lines the narrow street of the market and locals have growing concerns of pedestrians getting impaled by sharp food sticks wielded by unweary tourists (another market with the same problem states that it can ruin other peoples clothes). It might sound like a stretch, but considering the five block long shopping street lined with over a hundred shops sees thousands of visitors a day, its a genuine cause for concern. Of course the Japanese will rarely tell you to your face that youre an asshole. So instead the market association has asked store owners to display signs saying No eating while walking in Japanese, English, Chinese and Korean. This is more of a warning than an outright ban as they dont want to drive tourists away. We cant ban the act of eating while walking, as this is one of the ways to enjoy sightseeing, said Norikazu Takahashi, 76, president of the store association. We want to make the street a place where both travellers and residents can feel good, he told the newspaper. If youre unsure, the general rule is that people should eat and drink their food outside the store of purchase before they proceed on their journey. They should also keep litter with them or dump it in the trash cans/bins outside of stores as there are rarely any of them lining the streets. Want to be even more intrigued by Japanese etiquette? Watch British ex-pat Chris Broad run through the 12 passive aggressive rules of Japan and why they exist. Read Next Vodafone network access to rival to secure Liberty deal in Germany odafone Plc on Tuesday offered rival Telefonica Deutschland access to its enlarged high-speed broadband network in its bid to secure regulatory approval for its $22 billion deal to acquire Liberty Globals cable networks in Germany and central Europe. UK-based Vodafone, the worlds No 2 mobile operator, is seeking to increase its fixed-line business to better compete with German market leader Deutsche Telekom. Vodafone on Tuesday also said that Telefonica Deutschland would be able to offer super-fast services over Vodafone and Libertys Unitymedia cable networks in Germany if the deal is approved. The networks will cover 23.7 million households and would help Telefonica Deutschland to move up from its distant third position in fixed-line broadband, behind Deutsche and Vodafone. Telefonica Deutschland Chief Executive Markus Haas said the agreement would enable it to connect millions of additional households in Germany with high-speed internet. By adding fast cable connections, we now have access to an extensive infrastructure portfolio and can offer to even more O2 customers attractive broadband products including internet-based TV with O2 TV for better value for money, he said. Telefonica Deutschland controlled nearly a quarter of the German mobile market, after Deutsche and ahead of Vodafone, according to a 2018 estimate by VATM, which represents independent telecom firms. But it trailed rivals in the fixed-line broadband market, with just 5.9 per cent. US based Liberty Global has already sold its Austrian business and is now seeking to exit Switzerland as well as Germany and central Europe in what would be its biggest ever divestment. It had 13 million subscriptions and made revenue of $700 million in Germany in the first quarter of this year. CEO Mike Fries said on Monday that he was confident the deal could be completed this summer. We have crossed a number of key milestones and the European Commission is currently in the final stages of its review, he said. Tuesdays announcement was designed to win over regulators in Brussels who are reviewing the proposed merger with Liberty, before a decision by July 9. Liberty Global was last year given the green light by Brussels to buy Dutch cable operator Ziggo when it agreed to several conditions over access to its network. Vodafone and Unitymedia, Libertys German business, operate in different parts of the country and do not compete directly. But a merged entity would have a very strong position in cable and broadband, in particular to multi-family apartment blocks, leading competitors to urge regulators to step in and ensure that they also have last-mile access to households. Deutsche Telekom CEO Tim Hoettges had, last year, said the Vodafone-Unity merger was unacceptable because it would create a cable TV monopoly in Germany. Deutsche Telekom said on Tuesday the Vodafone offer to open its network showed the British company was desperate to keep its deal alive. The European Commission opened a full-scale probe into the deal in December. Sources, however, said last month it had not raised any major concerns about the impact of the deal on Germanys cable market. EU has set a 9 July deadline for decision on Vodafone purchase of Liberty assets. There was joy for Donegal in Croke Park when a business from the county was honoured with a coveted All-Ireland Business Award. Donegal Language School of Bundoran, which teaches English, was named runner-up in the Education Business 2019 category at the prestigious All-Ireland Business Foundations annual All-Ireland Business Summit and awards. The All-Ireland Business Foundation is responsible for overseeing the All-Ireland Business Summit and All-Ireland Business awards, ongoing All-Star accreditation, Thought Leader awards and promoting peer dialogue among members. Companies which already hold Business All-Star Accreditation from the All-Ireland Business Foundation compete in the finals of the All-Ireland Business Awards in a range of categories. All finalists were 'live-judged' on the day by an adjudication panel chaired by Dr Briga Hynes of the Kemmy Business School at the University of Limerick and Kieran Ring, CEO of the Global Institute of Logistics. This was the fifth annual All-Ireland Business Summit and Business Awards event. The networking and collaboration element of the annual Summits led to the establishment of the All-Ireland Business Foundation, which has accredited 350 companies. The Foundation is privileged to showcase and acknowledge the diverse talent and tremendous determination and success that exists amongst Irish SMEs, said Dr Hynes. All entrants are to be congratulated on the level of professionalism of their submissions and the positive endorsement received from customers and suppliers. The submissions captured the hard work, dedication and ability of entrepreneurs to build alliances to achieve growth and demonstrated that SMEs are the small giants of the Irish economy. Vice-President of the European Parliament, Mairead McGuinness MEP, who presented the award, said the commitment to quality of the small to medium enterprise sector was critical to the Irish economy. Ireland has the fastest growing economy in Europe and one of the fastest rates of business start-ups, said McGuinness. Small to medium enterprises make up 99% of Irish businesses and their importance to the Irish economy can never be understated. I am very proud of all the businesses here today, their commitment to quality, as evidenced by gaining these coveted All-Ireland Business awards, will ensure Irish SMEs continue to grow. For more information about the All-Ireland Business Foundation see businessallstars.ie Pictured above: Gina Witherow of Donegal Language School receiving an All-Ireland Business Award at Croke Park from Mairead McGuinness MEP (l), Vice-President of the European Parliament and Dr Briga Hynes (r) of the Kemmy Business School at the University of Limerick and co-chair of the judging panel. Picture: Conor McCabe. Two out of three people with asthma currently do not have an Asthma Action plan, according to a survey undertaken by the Asthma Society, launched by Minister for Health Simon Harris as part of Asthma Awareness Week. The research was conducted after recent figures for asthma deaths show they are on the rise. One person now dies every five days from asthma. The Asthma Society of Ireland is encouraging the 9,536 people in Donegal with uncontrolled asthma to reduce their risk of a fatal asthma attack by getting an Asthma Action Plan. The survey was conducted April/May 2019, with 1,081 respondents. Asthma Society CEO, Sarah OConnor, said: It is truly frightening that asthma deaths are on the rise in Ireland a person now dies every five days in Ireland from asthma. Our Asthma Management survey, launched today, highlighted a huge lack of awareness of how to manage asthma. The survey results showed that, in the event of an asthma attack, most people wouldnt know the necessary steps to take to save a life (the 5 Step Rule). 15,894 people in Donegal have asthma and 60% (9,536) do not have their asthma in control, greatly increasing the risk of suffering a fatal asthma attack. Every person who has asthma in Donegal should be in possession of an Asthma Action Plan UK research[2] into asthma deaths indicated that having an up-to-date Asthma Action Plan made it significantly less likely that a person would experience a fatal asthma attack. This Asthma Awareness Week we are calling on people all over the country to put an Asthma Action Plan in place. Minister for Health, Simon Harris, said: I am strongly supporting the Asthma Societys campaign today, encouraging people to take control of their asthma. Asthma management is extremely important. It allows people with the condition to live a longer, healthier and happier life. I encourage everyone to put an Asthma Action Plan in place it is the one of the best asthma management tools available. People with asthma can work with their GP or asthma nurse or phone the Asthma and COPD Adviceline for help to create their personalised plan on 1800 44 54 64. The Asthma Management survey found that: * Two out of three people with asthma do not have an Asthma Action Plan * Two out of three people with asthma have not spoken to their healthcare professional in the last six months * Only 63% of people surveyed knew there was a 5 Step Rule for managing an asthma attack * 69% people with asthma would not know the 5 Step Rule to manage an asthma attack * Half of people with asthma use their reliever inhaler more than the recommended twice a week * Three out of five people with asthma do not use their controller inhaler all year round * Nine out of ten people with asthma do not carry an Asthma Attack Card with them at all times * One in five people with asthma would not know the six most common symptoms of an asthma attack As part of this campaign, the Asthma Society has produced two videos both provide tips about asthma management. One very emotive video features Ciara Kelly who lost her mother to an asthma attack in 2018 and the other video features Michael McDonagh who shares his story of how he got in control of his asthma, getting his life back on track. In Letterkenny on May 10 The Asthma Society will kick off its first ever Asthma Roadshow during Asthma Awareness Week. This roadshow will travel around the country to help people get in control of their asthma. The roadshows next stop is Eyre Square Shopping Centre on 9 May (2-6pm) and Letterkenny Retail Park on 10 May (12 noon to 4pm). People with asthma are encouraged to attend these events where they can meet with a respiratory specialist nurse one to one about getting in control of their asthma. These events are designed to be family friendly and feature activities/games to get children to learn about and accept their own asthma or that of a friend or family member. Asthma Action Plans can be downloaded from asthma.ie or ordered over the phone at 1800 44 54 64 (delivered for free) or picked up at any Boots pharmacy nationwide. They help to identify asthma triggers, manage symptoms, correctly take medication and, vitally, informing people how to know if someone is experiencing an asthma emergency and how to use the 5 Step Rule to manage an attack. To support the Asthma Society, text BREATHE to 50300 TO DONATE 4 (Text costs 4. Asthma Society of Ireland will receive a minimum of 3.25.Service Provider: LIKECHARITY. Helpline: 076 6805278) Communities in south west Donegal will feel the brunt of the Community Employment Supervisors strike which starts on Monday May 23 for five consecutive days, a local county councillor has said. The industrial action is due to a dispute with the government over pensions. It follows a Labour Court recommendation in 2008 to introduce a scheme for employees, which has not been put in place. The strike by Siptu and Forsa members will start on May 13 and will disrupt community services, including childcare, elder care and disability services. Independent county coucnillor Niamh Kennedy said the strike will affect up to 24 community, tourism, youth, sporting and voluntary groups which are affiliated to the Killybegs Employment Project, a Community Employment (CE) project that covers Killybegs, Bruckless, Dunkineely, Ardaghey and Inver. Speaking on behalf of the executive committee of Killybegs Employment Project, she said the CE Supervisors and their unions are in dispute with the government over an outstanding Labour Court Recommendation that was issued in 2008. The Labour Court recommended that an agreed pension scheme should be introduced for CE Supervisors and Assistant Supervisors. Successive governments have chosen to ignore the Labour Court Recommendation and the supervisors have been continually fighting for their rights but to no avail. Cllr Kennedy said the supervisors are justifiably angry and having staged a one day strike in February plus a protest at Dail Eireann in April, they are now escalating their action by a five-day strike starting on Monday. The supervisors say that they are waiting 11 years for their pension rights to be acknowledged by the government, who are ignoring them and the Labour Court Recommendation," she said. Cllr Kennedy said that communities and services throughout Donegal and all over the country will suffer as a result of this Industrial action, as nearly all cities, towns and villages depend on the services of Community Employment Schemes. National Day celebrations in Bamenda Facebook National Day celebrations in the North West and South West for the past three years, has become more of a night mare for civil servants, rather than a day to exercise patriotism and a desperate desire for national unity. The ongoing crisis in the Anglophone regions has pushed top government officials to take strict measures in order to ensure all state workers participate in the march-past. AMany critics think the step is taken by government to give the impression that all is under control. This year, regional delegations have begun sending messages, threatening collaborators to partake in May 20 activities or face the consequences. After the controversial message of South West governor, Okalia Bilai to South West chiefs, forcing them to march and hold placards on May 20, the North West governor's office on May 6, issued a note to regional delegates and heads of autonomous services in Bamenda, informing all government structures that march-past is compulsory. " You are hereby reminded that march-past for all government services is compulsory and you are entreated to mobilise all your staff to march on that day", read the communique , signed the North West Secretary General, Lanyuy Harry, on behalf of Governor Adolphe Lele Lafrique. He further instructed these persons to be decently and homogenously dressed in their various fabrics or t-shirts, while each service would obligatorily carry the national flag and a sign board to identify the service. Armed separatists have banned the celebration of the National Day in the Anglophone regions, imposing a ghost town that cuts across the celebration of Cameroon's unity. In other areas where the ceremonial ground isn't accessible, some workers have been told to rally around specified safe areas, to be carried to the field. Before the crisis,workers rarely participated in National day events in the North West and South West. This day was meant for the military, schools and some members of the civil society. But for the past two years, teachers, and other government institutions have been threatened to march or risk facing sanctions. Some of these workers have expressed worry over this situation, since marching would mean disobeying separatists who can kidnap and torture you for participating. The images of three women who participated in labour day celebrations , despite separatists call for a boycott, is still fresh in the minds of some of these workers, who are worried about their security, after the march-past. A call has been made for members of the public to report illegal dumping after the council and Coillte removed a huge pile of domestic waste which was gathered as part of a clean-up in a Donegal scenic area. The huge pile of waste was gathered by Coillte at Goland in Ballybofey. The pile of domestic waste was lifted on Tuesday morning by the Donegal County Councils mobile litter unit as part of an organised clean-up. The Cathaoirleach of the Stranorlar Municipal area Cllr Patrick McGowan called on communities to rise up and put a stop to illegal dumping. I am appealing to everyone to look closely at the photo and see if there is any item that they can identify or may have any evidence of where the waste came from, he said. He said he will pass on in complete confidentiality any information to the waste management section of the council. We all need to try and identify the culprits so that they can be prosecuted, named and shamed, he said. Donegal County Council said the range of material lifted highlights the fact that individuals continue to dispose of their waste in an unauthorised fashion. The council supports Cllr McGowans call for the public to report all suspected unauthorised waste activity, the council said in reponse to a query from the Donegal Democrat. Donegal County Council said it would like to encourage any member of the public who has information regarding any instance of unauthorised waste activity to call 074 91 53900 from 9am to 5pm Monday to Thursday and 9am to 4.30pm on Friday. In addition, outside of the Councils office hours or where a member of the public may wish to report an issue directly to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), they can make a report through the National Environmental Complaints Line on 1850 365121 or via the EPAs See it? Say it? smartphone app. These services operate on a 24 hour basis. Donegal County Council is committed to thoroughly investigated all reports received. The council said it also wished to also thank the 5,500 volunteers in community groups and Tidy Towns Committees who work tirelessly in collaboration with the Council in our journey to ensuring that Donegal is the cleanest and greenest county in Ireland. The search for Miss Donegal 2019 is very much underway with applications now being invited for the selection night in the luxurious surrounds of Harveys Point Hotel on the shores of Lough Eske. For those with a love for travel this provides the possibility and opportunity to travel the world and be an ambassador for Donegal. Miss Ireland /Donegal now wants to hear from you. The 2019 winner will take over the crown from the current Miss Donegal, Sophie Devlin and could potentially go on to win Miss Ireland following in the steps of former Miss Donegal, and 2017 Miss Ireland, Lauren McDonagh who represented Ireland at Miss World in China. Beauty Pageant Donegal Airport has kindly sponsored a return trip to Dublin to attend the Miss Ireland Event. And if selected as Miss Ireland the lucky lady will go forward to the 69th Miss World Final which will be held on December 7 in Thailand. This is the first time in the history of Miss World that the month-long festival and final will take place in the Land of the Smiles". Miss Ireland is one of the worlds longest running beauty pageants. Established in 1947 it has been the launch pad for many well known successful, empowering women in Ireland. The competition has not only been successful for the overall winners of the coveted crown but finalists also credit Miss Ireland in helping build their confidence, self-esteem, interview and media skills, all elements which they have gone on to use in their chosen professional careers. If you think you have got what it takes apply now for Miss Donegal see the Donegal Democrat this week. According to Gray, a situation occurred two weeks ago near Lake Oliver Drive, in Enterprise, where he volunteered to help remove approximately 22 pigs, some large. In that situation, Gray said he had to shoot a 400-pound boar. He assured council members that his particular part of the USDA doesnt just go out there guns blazing or anything like that. The first thing I think about when setting up a trap is clear firing lanes, Gray said, and added that the ultimate goal is to avoid damage to property. One particular issue, according to City Attorney Rainer Cotter, is the possibility of discharging firearms inside the city limits, which is currently banned. Police Chief T.D. Jones said current rules allow bows to be used or trapped hogs can be shot at the pen. Friendship AME Episcopal Church, will hold its annual Women and Mothers Day program on Sunday, May 12, at 11 a.m. Guest speaker is Arlissa Minniefield, municipal clerk, town of Newton and chairperson of the Alabama Democratic Conference - Dale County Chapter. Friendship AME is located on Dale County Road 30 in Ozark. For more information, call Mary Harper Sanders at 334-299-0030. Maple Avenue Baptist Church, 1009 W. Maple Ave., Geneva, will host the monthly meeting on the non-denominational 39ers C.L.U.B. meeting on Tuesday, May 14, at 11 a.m. The May meeting will be a musical program featuring Ryan Gant, Michael Herrera, Suzanne Mixon and more. The groups next meeting will be in September. Cost of lunch is $6 per person. Call 334-684-9617 for more information. The Usher Board of Johns Chapel AME Church, 605 Geneva Highway in Enterprise will have a barbecue Boston butt plate sale on Friday, May 17, from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. Plates will be available for dining in, carryout or delivery. Orders may be placed and deliveries arranged by calling Vivian Johnson at 334-347-9288 or the church at 334-393-2661. A Geneva County man is under arrest after allegedly throwing a knife and stabbing his stepfather. Hunter Green, 22, of Fadette, is charged with second-degree assault domestic. He is currently in the Geneva County Jail. No bond information is available at this time. Geneva County Sheriff Tony Helms said deputies responded to a report of a stabbing on Highway 103 at about 6 p.m. May 7. After the scene was cleared, Slocomb Rescue treated the victim and transported him to a local hospital, Helms said. During the investigation it was determined Green had thrown a knife at his stepfather, and the knife nicked an artery in the stepfathers arm. The victim is recovering. The men were arguing when the stabbing occurred, Helms said. Follow Michele Forehand on Twitter @micheleforehan1 Get Breaking News Alerts Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Alabama College of Osteopathic Medicine student Caroline Loyola recently found a new way to relax after a long day of classes and studying. My fiance and I take the dog on the trail all the time, she said while standing on a shared-use walking/biking trail recently opened near the college. Its a really good way to take a break from studying while its not too hot yet. Its been mostly a nice mental break. City, ACOM, and other business officials gathered Thursday at the trailhead near the medical school to officially celebrate the trails installation. The project has been a few years in the making as the city officially committed $169,000 to the initiative in December 2016. A $400,000 federal grant from the Transportation Alternatives Program paid the majority of the costs for the trail, which covers almost a mile between ACOM and the former Dothan Village property. The trail connects the school with several retail developments near the intersection of Ross Clark Circle and U.S. Highway 84 East, another benefit for students. Prof. Ngwafor (left) and Dr. Ngongi PhotoGrid The power tussle rocking the Sasse Old Boys Association (SOBA), an alumni association grouping ex-students of St. Josephs College Sasse in the Diocese of Buea is far from over. The result is that SOBA continues to run on a twin leadership Prof. Ephraim Ngwafor on the one hand and Dr. Amos Namanga Ngongi on the other. In his capacity as President General of SOBA, Professor Ephraim Ngwafor is expected in Washington DC in the days ahead for the SOBA America Convention slated for 24-26 May 2019. Professor Ephraim Ngwafor was elected President General of SOBA on August 10, 2013 for a three-year mandate, which mandate was due to expire in August 2016. An elective SOBA General Assembly tarried for close to two years with the Anglophone crisis to blame. Apparently because members of the various chapters of the association were not well informed as to why the elective general assembly was taking too long to be convened called for a revival general assembly. While an elective General Assembly was called for March 10, 2018 in Douala, a Revival General Assembly was planned for March 4, 2018 at the Anthony of Padua Parish Hall Buea Town. Prof. Ngwafor backed the Douala meeting but his vice, Prof. Ernest Molua sided with the revivalists. A group of Sobans have since put to question the legitimacy of Prof. Ngwafor, claiming that he enjoys divided support only amongst the Yaounde Sobans. In April 2018, this group created a Caretaker Committee headed by Dr Ngongi Namanga that is bent on countering any move made by Prof. Ngwafor at home and abroad in the name of SOBA. It is said that the struggle for power between the Prof. Ngwafor led SOBA executive and the Caretaker Committee has dealt a heavy blow on the life of the association. The Secretary General of SOBA General, Mfoataw Ebot is said to have signed dismissal and suspension decisions for some Sobans in Cameroon and the United Kingdom who have links with the caretaker committee. This move is alleged to have ignited anger amongst Sobans as they say the association has membership only at Chapter levels and from the Soba constitution, the Chapters are the only body to sanction their member and inform the national executive. The infighting is said to be the result of the Ngwafor led exco to render accounts even after requests from some Sobans in Buea, Limbe, Tiko, Muyuka, Bangem and Bambili. Proponents of the Caretaker Committee claim that the sanctions meted out on some Sobans by the Prof. Ngwafor led team have been ignored by all Soba chapters as those purportedly sanctioned are still bona fide members in their various chapters. It is worthwhile noting the no chapter is paying national dues to the Prof. Ngwafor faction. This has therefore shifted legitimacy in favour of the CTC, they say. After UK where the mandate of Ayuk Ako Arrey as president of SOBA UK has long been put to question by pro-Ngwafor Sobans, we learnt attention is now focused towards the United States where Prof. Ngwafor is expected to address Sobans in his capacity as President General of the Association. This unique platform prepared for Professor Ngwafor to showcase him as President has met with some resistance from Sobans in the U.S. who insist on the presence of the Caretaker Committee. These Sobans believe strongly that Soba America doesnt have the locus standi to decide on the problem in which both Dr Ngongi and Professor Ngwafor have decided to talk and come to common ground for the interest of a United Soba. Presenting Ngwafor as President will be creating further cracks in an already fragmenting Soba. If Prof Ngwafor has to address Soba America, it will therefore be fair for the Caretaker Committee to do same. This is presently shaking Soba America as they wait to see what happens at the DC convention. It is also worth mentioning that President of Soba UK, Mr Ayuk Ako Arrey shall also be present in the US convention and will definitely have to address the convention as a visiting President, critics say. Despite the problems, Prof. Ngwafor picked up a fresh mandate at the helm of SOBA. For the first time, Prof. Ephraim Ngwafor, President General of the Sasse Old Boys Association, SOBA accepted to talk to The SUN Newspaper on the crisis rocking the well-regarded ex-student association. In the Saturday, July 14, 2018 telephone interview, the celebrated Professor of Law said he had the blessings of the Bishop who is the owner of St. Josephs College Sasse. He says that a good account of the 75th anniversary of Sasse College was presented few weeks after the occasion. At the time, the two-term SOBA President General was reacting following a July 12, 2018 SOBA UK press release that indicted him of clinging to power. What Prof. Ngwafor said on July 14, 2018 It is not even me who is supposed to give this statement. It is the bishop. The Bishop of Buea is the owner of Sasse College. These fellows in England dont know that. They are arrogating unto themselves what they dont own. You cannot give what you do not own. The Bishop will make a pronouncement very soon as to who are the leaders of SOBA UK. SOBA America and SOBA Germany have endorsed what we do in Cameroon. We have legitimacy. Because of the crisis in the South West Region, we decided to hold the General Assembly in Douala. The Bishop took us to his house in Soppo and our general assembly took place under his supervision. We now have a new constitution endorsed by the bishop. The General Council was also renewed during the same General Assembly. It is not Ephraim Ngwafor, it is the Bishop who wants it that way. The SOBA General Council has expelled John Kameni from SOBA for life. The General Council has asked us to write to the former executive in England questioning their misrepresentation and rebellion and if the answer is not satisfied, the council will also punish them. There are about seven of them. They will be punished. The secretary general will write to them. For me, it is not a question of who is doing what. It is the Bishops will that things go on well. And it is the Bishop who will tell us those to govern SOBA UK by endorsing our actions. SOBA General has handled the situation in the UK chapter. Ayuk Akoh-Arrey is the former president of SOBA UK. He did a couple of things that did not please a lot of members. They wrote a petition to the bishop and copied SOBA General. So, the Bishop, the SOBA General Executive and me sat and said the only way out was to do fresh elections. So, all of them were told to go to election. Ako-Arrey was afraid of defeat and did not go for the elections. If you ask me to go to elections now, I will. I am confident of myself. Those who won have the support of SOBA General and that of the Bishop who is the owner of Sasse College. Anybody who goes against the proprietor cannot be accepted as a SOBA. The Bishop is preparing an announcement that will solve this problem once and for all. It will dictate to SOBA General which side we should support after the results of the SOBA UK elections. Elderly SOBAns are those now managing the UK chapter. The playground is level for everybody. Why did Ako-Arrey and his clique fear to go for elections if they had 80 people behind them? The voting was done through the internet and everyone had the opportunity to vote. We are waiting for the Bishops official statement, but SOBA General supports those who won the elections in SOBA UK we accept the results. You are also accused to clinging to power long after the end of your mandate. Are you a sit-tight leader? We took power in 2013. In 2016, we arranged to hold the general assembly in October. The date was moved from August to October 2016. Hell broke loose in Buea. You remember the strikes in 2016? Everybody we called said the atmosphere was not the best to have a General Assembly. It was terrible. This went on until 2017. I looked at the constitution and said it is not only in Buea or in Bamenda that we can hold this meeting. We agreed to look for a place close to Buea. We looked for Douala which is close to Buea. The other people rather called for a Revival General Assembly. I encouraged everybody to come to Douala and vote. When we got to Douala, Kameni had gone to court and stopped us. That same day, the Bishop called all of us to his house in Small Soppo. That is where the General Assembly took place. Kumba, Tiko, Limbe, Yaounde, Douala and Bamenda chapters attended the elective General Assembly. How come that a few people from Buea did not come? Is that proper? The people in Buea, in the last meeting, gave us evidence that some people in Buea were sponsored by others in the UK to destabilise SOBA General. You can imagine how terrible that is. They brought two cases in the high court of Fako and lost all. SOBA General is doing well. Serving SOBA General is for me a passion. At the end of my term, I will step down for some other person to take over. But I will be leaving a peaceful, united and prosperous SOBA. What has since happened to the accounts of the 75 anniversary of Sasse College? It is Dr. Agbor in Tiko who was the president of the organising committee. A few months after that event, we met in Buea in an evaluation meeting. Only members of the Buea Chapter did not attend. Youll be surprised to learn that Buea was to organise the anniversary gala that took place at Mountain Hotel and we have since not had an account from them. We dont know how much they made from the gala because they have since not given us any account. No account was rendered by Buea. Now, they turn round to attack instead of defending themselves. When we met for the evaluation of the 75 th anniversary in Buea, Dr. Agbor gave us a decent report. They claim that government gave us FCFA 120 million. Which government will do that when there are so many ex-student associations? The government gave FCFA 2 million and we left it with the Bishop. For solidarity calls, we dont want to talk about the financial accounts that Buea has been unable to present. The people in the UK collected about FCFA 15 million to build the sickbay at Sasse College. They have not yet handed the money to the bishop or to the school. The money is still with them there in the UK. Is that proper? You now see why they are fighting? This is money contributed by individuals and corporations. The Bishop told me that the last constitution was done in 1947. The Bishop said such a constitution is archaic, reason why we had to amend the constitution during the last General Assembly. We had to make the SOBA constitution more modern. We made sure that what the founding fathers did remains untouched. Are there any prospects of reconciling the warring SOBA factions? We have already taken decisions on certain issues. Take somebody like Prof Ernest Molua who was so much on the side of Kameni. We would have dismissed him. But we all agreed that we should instead warn him not to do what he did again. He can only not hold a position in the executive for some few years but he remains a SOBAN. Dr. Namanga Ngongi was making all that noise but we said he should not be dismissed because he is an elderly SOBAN. We only sent him a warning letter. This is just to show you that we are interested in a united SOBA. It is only people like Kameni who go the extreme that are expelled. We are following the constitution to the latter. SOBA General will decide the fate of those recalcitrant members in the UK. We are also planning for the 80th anniversary of Sasse College. Looking out the window and seeing the sun shining on May Day of 2019 I reflect that Dundalk of sixty years ago was a very different place from it is today! In May 1959, a great change was coming over Ireland that I had known in my school days. By that date, many Dundalk homes already had television sets and transistor radios were becoming a prize acquisition for the teenagers of those far off days. It must be difficult for young people of the present day to comprehend the impact those means of communication were to have on the Ireland of the Sixties-era! Up to that time, ordinary people of Dundalk had to depend on the cinema and, maybe, one wireless broadcasting to everybody including neighbours in the family home! Now there were 'Sputniks' (as Russian launched satellites were called) in the sky above us and news that had taken days and even weeks to reach us previously was becoming instantaneous! That changed everything; and also changed our ideas about the world outside Ireland! Looking back it seems to me that the weather appeared to be different to what it is in 2019 but that probably just an illusion! You must remember that we had no 'five day weather forecasts' then and had to rely on newspaper and radio reports to guess what it might be like during the week ahead. Nevertheless May Day was a significant date on the calendar when we realised that summer days and nights were just around the corner. More significantly, however, for children it was a sign that the School Holidays were not far off! Back in 1959 religion played a huge part in everyday life in Dundalk and what you could do or not do depended to a great deal on what was said from the pulpit. That is not intended as a criticism of the practice of religion of the time but it was a fact of life and you obeyed the rules or suffered the consequences and many emigrated for that reason, as much as a result of economic circumstances. Old pagan superstitions, however, did linger and, at times of year like May Day or ('Bealtaine' as it had been known in ancient Ireland), those old beliefs did break through the fabric of ordinary life. I recall that in parts of rural Ireland it still the custom throw May blossoms on the roofs of houses, I think to bring good luck for the coming summer but it may have had something to do with an old belief in the fairies. These beliefs varied in various parts of Ireland. For instance, my wife tells me, that when she was a child, it was the custom in Armagh to place yellow flowers on the doorsteps of houses so that the inhabitants would have butter to spread on your bread all the year round! Perhaps another reminder of the World War 11 food shortages? Strangely the colour of the flowers and blossoms seems to have had something to do with the effect of these 'spells' (for want of a better word on my part). I recall that my mother, who came from a rural Donegal background, strongly believed that only people who were born in May were allowed to bring the whitethorn blossoms into a home -- if anyone else did it -- it would be very bad luck! My father, who came from a similar tradition, thought that there was bad luck in bringing yellow broom into a house or sheds where domestic animals were kept! To get back to Dundalk of the period, I recall that the May processions on the Sundays of the month, played a big part in the social life of the town. In St. Joseph's Redemptorists Church, where I was an altar boy, hundreds would attend these ceremonies which wound around the Church, and outside when the weather was fine; the children walking behind the banners of various saints and the statue of the Infant of Prague carried by the altar boys. The wife of a friend of mine tells me that most homes in Dundalk erected May altars in honour of the Blessed Virgin. She says that it would be kept decked with flowers, kept fresh by the female members of the household for the entire month, with the centrepiece a statue of Our Lady dressed in blue and white. Things were changing, however, in Dundalk by May 1959. The closure of the G.N.R. Railway Works in October of the previous had meant a great loss of employment and income for local businesses. Many wage earners were forced to emigrate to earn money to keep their families together and new ideas were beginning to reach us from England. Young people were beginning to ask questions, especially about what they could read or wear. The era of 'Beetle Mania' was not far off and 'music was in the air' --- a factor that greatly changed social outlooks and behaviour in Dundalk! 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 contributing and/or subscribing to our free daily Newsletter . Support our mission and join our community now. Caolan McCabe and Darren Mundow from Colaiste Chu Chulainn spent three days in London recently, on Net Eire and Cooperation Irelands Futures in Banking program in Morgan Stanleys office in Canary Warf. The 5th Year students participated in employability and skills workshops focusing on students' social footprint and interview techniques and a presentation from the Irish Deputy Head of Mission, Mr Gerald Angley. The students also visited the trading floor in Morgan Stanley and were shown around by interns at the international firm . Caolan McCabe from Waterville Crescent described how he networked over lunch with young people working in the City of London and discussed his career paths to their current roles. The Young Irelanders star was taken on a guided tour of Bloomberg TV Studio in Bank Street and visited the Roman ruins in The City. Darren Mundow from Bay Estate described the Project Management Exercise where he delivered a presentation to invited guests in the Financial Sector. This was the 10 year anniversary of the student Diversity Programme bringing students together from all walks of life to experience what career paths are open to them. Bean Ui Riodal has brought students from Colaiste Chu Chulainn on the program for three years now and students have benefited from the trip in having a clearer plan and making connections for the future. Dundalk Institute of Technology (DkIT) welcomed some of the most inquisitive minds in the North Leinster and South Ulster region to its campus for the 2019 SciFest regional programme this week. Hundreds of secondary school students from North Dublin, Louth, Cavan, Meath and Monaghan exhibited their Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) projects to compete for the coveted title of SciFest 2019 Regional Finalist. SciFest is an all-inclusive, all-island science initiative which fosters active, collaborative and inquiry-based learning among second-level students. SciFest is funded primarily by Science Foundation Ireland, Intel, Boston Scientific and Specsavers. This year sees the introduction of an exciting new award, the Specsavers Making a Difference Award. A further new award this year is the Institute of Physics in Ireland award for the best Physics project. Among the other awards on offer are the Boston Scientific Medical Devices Award and the Intel Technology Award. Of the almost 130 projects exhibited at SciFest@DkIT 2019, the judges had a difficult task in shortlisting the regional winners. The top prize on the day, the SFI Best Project Award, went to Ruth Madden from Largy College for her project, The Microplastic Filter A Small Solution to a Global Problem. The student will go on to participate in the SciFest National Final where she will compete for the opportunity to represent Ireland at the International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) in Anaheim, California in May 2020. St. Vincents Secondary School, Dundalk won three prizes on the day including the Irish Science Teachers Associations (ISTA) award, won by Ruth McGee, Erin Moore and Fiadh OGrady, for their project on An investigation to compare the anti-microbial effectiveness of natural versus synthetic soaps; the Best Junior Life Sciences Project Award, won by Aoife McQuillan, Ciara Gorham and Kayla Darby, for their project on Is there a correlation between audio book genres and the narrator gender?; and the Highly Recommended award, won by Cara Preston and Ciara Reilly for their project on A Fourier Analysis of Mathematical Wave Patterns in Irish Dancing. Upon receiving the award Cara commented: It means so much to have won the Highly Recommended Award. We both put so much effort into it and its great that we got something back out if it in the end. So its a very proud moment. The project has helped us both with our team work skills and communication its also made us more confident speaking publicly. Working on our project which was A Fourier Analysis of Mathematical Wave Patterns in Irish Dancing has giving me an interest in STEM and I think I would definitely consider DkIT in the future. Ciara added: We put so much time and effort into our project. Its great that the work has been acknowledged. We had so much fun creating our project and our poster and it was a nice change from what we usually do in school. I would be interested in going into science when Im older and Id definitely be considering DkIT as I really liked the campus because its big and its only up the road. Colaiste Chu Chuilainn also won on the day, with Joseph Cassidy taking home the Runner-Up Junior Life Sciences Project for his work on How light colour affects plant growth. DkIT President Michael Mulvey said: We are happy to host this great event because DkIT has a very wide range of programmes in the STEM area including Science, Agriculture, Engineering and Computing and we have a very good record in terms of individual retention and completion rates. We aim to nurture and develop the entrepreneurs of the future and indeed I think we have quite a few of them here today at SciFest. Winners of the SciFest Regional Finals at DkIT 2019 are: SciFest Winners: St Vincents Secondary School, Irish Science Teachers' Association (ISTA) Award Colaiste Dun an Ri, Maths in Science Award Eureka Secondary School, ESERO Discover Space Award Eureka Secondary School, Newstalk Best Communicator Award Colaiste Dun an Ri, Environmental Award Ashbourne Community College, Institute of Physics Award Bailieborough Community School, Intel Award (Best Technology) Eureka Secondary School, Specsavers Making a Difference Award Patrician High School, Boston Scientific Medical Devices Award Patrician High School, Abbott Runner-Up Best Project Award Largy College, Science Foundation Ireland Best Project Award DkIT Awards: St. Bricins College, Best Senior or Intermediate Project St Vincent's Secondary School, Best Junior Life Sciences Project Colaiste Chu Chulainn, Runner-up Junior Life Sciences Project St. Olivers Community College, Best Junior Physical Sciences or Technology Project, St. Vincents Secondary School, Highly Recommended Project Commenting on the SciFest@DkIT regional STEM fair Sheila Porter, SciFest Founder and CEO said: As we mark the 12th anniversary of SciFest, more than 65,000 students have participated in the programme to date and we are sure that 2019 will be another stellar year for projects in science, technology, engineering and maths. SciFest gives students an excellent opportunity to develop their interest in STEM and inquiry-based approaches to learning, while developing their creative and problem-solving skills and learning to work in a team. Insufficient cash flow means lost opportunities Australian small businesses have lost opportunities worth an estimated $5.8 billion due to insufficient cash flow 1 Nearly half (46 per cent) of Australian small business owners have been at risk of being unable to pay their employees 1 More than a quarter (26 per cent) of Australian small businesses that have experienced cash flow issues have done so in the last year1 Australian small businesses are losing out on opportunities worth thousands of dollars due to insufficient cash flow, with nearly half admitting theyve been at risk of being unable to pay their employees1, new research by global cloud accounting software leader Intuit has revealed. A new study1from Wakefield Research, commissioned by Intuit Australia, surveyed 500 small business owners in Australia and revealed half (50 per cent) have lost AUD $10,000 or more by foregoing a project or sale because of issues created by insufficient cash flow. Overall, Australian small businesses have lost out on $5.8 billion as a result of cash flow constraints. According to the Wakefield study, nearly half (46 per cent) of small business owners have been at risk of not being able to pay their employees by payday, and the majority (54 per cent) of respondents have been kept up at night by concerns about cash flow, even if their company has not suffered from it. The Wakefield study also found: A clear majority (63 per cent) of Australian small businesses have experienced cash flow issues more than once in the last 12 months. In instances where a business has been at risk of not being able to pay employees by payday, more than a third (35 per cent) have resolved the issue by paying their employees late. Nearly a third (31 per cent) of small business owners in Australia estimate their company currently has more than AUD $20,000 in outstanding receivables. Nearly half (47 per cent) of small business owners in Australia report it takes one week or more to prepare for payroll. Its a huge red flag that so many small business owners in Australia are turning down opportunities and missing out on additional revenue as a consequence of issues with their cash flow, said John Dunkerley, Country Manager, Intuit Australia. Our research emphasises the importance of regularly reviewing and analysing cash flow. Day-to-day operational demands can make finding the time to do this difficult, but without money being transferred into your business you will find it hard to grow, or even operate effectively. Its disappointing that many businesses are not taking advantage of affordable, easy to use online financial management tools, especially given most Australians are very savvy with their personal use of technology. Business owners can increase their efficiencies across a range of business tasks, such as preparing their bank and credit accounts, providing statements and organising their superannuation and, being STP compliant. As cash flow remains one of the top concerns for small business owners, Intuit Australia will be holding a financial health session at its flagship event, QuickBooks Connect , in Melbourne on the 30thand 31stof May. Kane Munro CPA, Director at Accountancy Online, who will be delivering a session in the financial health stream at this years QuickBooks Connect Conference said, Its understandable that small business owners are losing sleep over cash flow: its a make or break issue. My advice to smallbusiness owners who are having trouble is to simplify and automate their accounting processes. Cloud accounting solutions can be used to generate instant reports to make predictions for future cash flow, allowing businesses to more easily prepare and adapt. A separate survey2of more than 500 Australian small businesses conducted by Intuit Australia in March 2019 revealed that only 44 per cent of small business owners are currently using payroll software. About the research 1Wakefield Research (www.wakefieldresearch.com) conducted the Intuit study by surveying 500 Small Business Owners in Australia with 0-100 employees between October 5 and October 19, 2018, using an email invitation and an online survey. $5.8 billion worth of lost opportunities for Australian small businesses calculated via the following: Number of Australian business owners with 0-100 employees (small businesses) = 1,161,000 (Roy Morgan Single Source Database Jan 14 Dec 18) Half (50%) of Australian small businesses have lost A$10,000 or more by foregoing a project or sale specifically due to issues created by insufficient cash flow. (Wakefield Research) 50% of Australian business owners with 0-100 employees = 580,500. If 580,500 businesses lost $10,000 = $5,805,000,000. 2The STP study was designed and conducted by YouGov Galaxy and undertaken online among a sample of small business owners between 11 March and 15 March, 2019. The sample comprises of more than 500 Australian small businesses. For the purposes of the study, micro businesses employ up to four people, and other small businesses are classified as employing between 5-19 people. Both micro businesses and small businesses were included in this study. The sample was distributed throughout Australia, including capital cities, regional and rural areas. Following the completion of interviewing, the data was weighted to reflect the latest Australia Bureau of Statistics business counts. Have you taken the next step and started reporting through Single Touch Payroll (STP)? Employers with 20 or more employees should have already started reporting their employees salaries and wages, pay as you go withholding and superannuation information to the ATO through an STP-enable payroll solution. If your business employs 19 or fewer employees, you will be required to join the more than 91,000 businesses currently reporting through STP from 1 July 2019. If you are already reporting through STP, most of the work is already done. However, youll need to let your employees know some key information. What do employees need to know about STP? For the most part, STP is only a change for employers in the way they report to the ATO, however, as part of the digitisation, employees may no longer receive payment summaries at the end of financial year. While you no longer have to give your employees a payment summary, you may choose to still provide one. You should tell your employees if you wont be giving them a payment summary, and let them know that they can access this information in their ATO online account through myGov. We will provide notifications through ATO online accounts via myGov when income statements are ready for tax agents to complete a tax return. The way tax returns are lodged wont change, regardless of whether they are lodged by an individual or an agent. How will STP help employees? STP reporting means the ATO can now better support you in meeting your employee entitlements by flagging any instances where superannuation may not have been paid. This will increase transparency for millions of Australians around their year-to-date tax and superannuation information in near real-time through ATO online accounts via myGov, helping Australians take more control of their current financial situation and retirement planning, and helping you manage any challenges in meeting your obligations. Its not compulsory for employees to have a myGov account, but they wont be able to see their information online without one. Fortunately, its easy to setup and manage a myGov account if they dont have one and the account can now be accessed using a mobile number or email address to sign in. We understand that employers pay superannuation contributions at different times, but it is important to remember that you must pay at least quarterly. Your employees superannuation fund will let us know once a payment has been made. What do you need to do? If you are reporting through STP, you should take the following steps: Tell your employees if you wont be giving them a payment summary, and let them know that they can access this information in their ATO online account through myGov. Finalise your STP reports as soon as you can, but no later than 31 July. You can amend this information at any time if you find an error. When you make the finalisation declaration, your employees information will display as Tax ready in ATO online via myGov. You no longer need to lodge a payment summary annual report (PSAR) for information you have reported and finalised through STP. If your agent normally helps you finalise your end of year employee reporting, for example payment summaries, make sure they know that you have started STP reporting if they arent already aware. You will still need to give employees a payment summary for any amounts not reported through STP, for example employee share schemes. By John Shepherd, Assistant Commissioner, Australian Taxation Office Dr. Manaouda Malachie Twitter Dr. Manaouda Malachie, Cameroon's Minister of Public Health has taken to twitter to respond to those who have since been preoccupied with President Paul Biya's "permanent delegation" of signature to Ferdinand Ngoh Ngoh, Minister of State, Secretary General at the Presidency of the Republic. In the May 8, 2019 tweet, the Minister of Public Health wondered why a routine administrative act should generate so much noise at a time when there are more important issues at stake. "It seems very curious," he wrote, to see people get so worked up "over a delegation of signature which is a normal administrative formality". Dr Manaouda Malachie called on Cameroonians to focus on real struggles, especially with regards to sustainable development and the improvement of livelihoods. His words: "It is good to focus, in my opinion, our energies on real struggles, especially those of sustainable development and improvement of the quality of life of compatriots." Decree No. 2019/043 of February 5, 2019 permanently delegating signature of the President of the Republic to Minister of State Ferdinand Ngoh Ngoh has been making waves across the country and beyond. This decree has had the effect of a bomb on social media, confirming in the eyes of some observers a transfer of power by mutual agreement between Paul Biya and his Secretary General. Far from that, many have argued that the move is not strange, as some previous Secretaries General in both the Biya and Ahidjo regime have benefited from such constitutional provisions. The delegated powers are said to be limited to certain decisions affecting the life of the country. Analysts say it is a move akin to democratic and normal societies, which should ordinarily not be a subject for debates were it not for the fact that most Cameroonians dont take interest in understanding how the statecraft is managed. So when SDO delegates powers to the first assistant to sign documents, is that anything strange? Delegation of powers is a routine feature in administration/bureaucratic practice, a political analyst posited. The decree giving powers to Ngoh Ngoh is backed by Article 10 (2) of Cameroon's constitution which states, "The President of the Republic may delegate some of his powers to the Prime Minister, other members of Government and any other senior administrative officials of the State, within the framework of their respective duties." Dr Manaouda joined government on January 4, 2019, succeeding Andre Mama Fouda at the Ministry of Public Health. He has since been active on social media. John Fru Ndi au Congres du SDF - 22/02/2018 SDF Cameroons leading opposition Social Democratic Front (SDF) party has congratulated the European Parliament for raising genuine issues in resolution 2019/2691(RSP) of April 18, 2019 in relation to the socio-political climate in the countrys North West and South West Regions. In a press release dated May 3, 2019 and signed by SDF National Chairman Ni John Fru Ndi, the SDF says the European Parliament resolution on Cameroon contains issues the party has formally presented to the Biya government over the past three years. The two-page document is titled, SDF position on the European Parliaments resolution on the Anglophone crisis. The SDF reiterates that the plaguing issues raised by the European Parliament on the Anglophone crisis are very genuine and had repeatedly been tabled by the SDF to the Biya government over the past three years, Fru Ndi said in the press release, Calls on the international community to bear witness to the alarming and deteriorating humanitarian situation in the Anglophone regions of Cameroon where genocide is in progress. The SDF salutes the European Union for raising awareness to the plight of the Anglophone populations in Cameroon by organizing a structured debate on the said crisis. The SDF further urges the European Parliament to take cognizance of the fact that the wounds of marginalization and second class citizenship for over 58 years are very deep on the Anglophone existence and cannot find lasting and sustainable solutions in such surface treatments like a failed decentralization, a poorly diagnosed National Commission for the Promotion of Bilingualism and Multiculturalism, nor the commission for the unconditional surrender of Anglophones referred to as Disarmament, Demobilization and Reintegration Committee. Exhorts the European Union and all friends of humanity to apply the stipulations in the UN Resolution on the responsibility to protect and apply same to the Anglophone people in Cameroon for the degree of violation of humanitarian law is such that the Anglophones should benefit from the protection of people as opposed to the protection of territory applicable under normal conditions of sovereignty. The SDF joins the European Parliament to urge the international community, notably the community of the Central African states, the African Union and the UN to hold the Cameroon government to engage in a ceasefire and an all-inclusive dialogue in order to find a sustainable democratic solution to the current Anglophone crisis. The SDF says it noted with deep interest that on April 18, 2019 the European Parliament adopted a resolution in which, inter alia, it raised the following: Decries the serious human rights abuses and breaches of international humanitarian law, resulting in the mass killings of thousands of Anglophone Cameroonians, the fleeing of tens of thousands of refugees as registered by the UNHCR in Nigeria, as well as the hundreds of thousands of internally displaced persons, the wanton burning and destruction of property, the closure of schools and hospitals as well as a general state of insecurity throughout the Anglophone regions. Condemns in the strongest terms the excessive use of force by the defense and security forces, mass arrests, arbitrary detentions, torture, extra-judicial killings, forced disappearances etc. The SDF also followed with deep concern the purported response to the European Parliament on April 22, 2019, by the Cameroon government in which it laid claims to sovereignty and its responsibility to lead the Cameroon state, and in which it further argued that, Cameroon internal issues can and should be resolved in Cameroon by Cameroonians themselves, thereby advancing the old argument of non-interference in the internal affairs of a country., whereas it is a well-known principle enshrined in international humanitarian law that where human rights suffer grave violation, the public law notion of sovereignty gives way to international intervention and redress. Be that as it may, this stand of the Cameroon government had earlier been reechoed by the speakers of the Cameroon National Assembly and the Senate respectively, whereas neither the Cameroon Senate nor the National Assembly, through their instrumentality, had accepted to organize a structured debate on the crisis, in spite of the repeated calls by SDF and her Parliamentarians for such a debate. We are excited to share this guest post from Dr. Ryan Shaw, assistant professor of music education at Michigan State University. Dr. Shaw received his Ph.D. in Music Education from Michigan State University and earned masters and bachelors degrees in music education from the University of Michigan. His scholarly interests include arts education policy and the ways that policy affects music teacher stress, planning, and instructional practices. Dr. Shaw serves on the editorial board for the Music Educators Journal, Arts Education Policy Review, and Contributions to Music Education, and is the Government Relations Committee Coordinator for the Michigan Music Education Association. Here, Dr. Shaw alerts us to two new bills making their way through the legislative process in Michigan that would pose grave danger to arts education in our states schools. Two new bills introduced in the Michigan House of Representatives, HB 4269 and 4270, are set to scrap the one credit arts requirement for Michigan high school students. This should not happen. We should speak up and save the requirement, since Michigan already has weak arts education policy. This move would also be in direct opposition to the spirit of federal education law and the Michigan Top Ten in Ten initiative that recognize the need for a well-rounded education that includes the arts. Specifically, the bills would eliminate the required credits in the arts and foreign languages from the Michigan Merit Curriculum, replacing them with a three-credit requirement from courses focused on 21st Century Skills. The proposed bills would add computer science and computer coding courses, or a combination of the two, and an MDE-approved formal career and technical education (CTE) program (e.g., construction trades, automobile tech) as available options for students to meet the 21st Century Skills three-credit requirement. On first read, this may sound technical and harmless. After all, isnt flexibility good? But it really goes to the purpose of K-12 schooling and revives an age-old debate: is K-12 education about experiencing a broad, rich curriculum or should it focus on vocational training and job readiness? If certain classes are optional, does this mean theyre seen as less valuable than those that are required? Currently, Michigan high school students must complete credits across different areas as part of the Michigan Merit Curriculum (for example, 4 credits in English language arts, 3 credits in science). Since 2006, all Michigan students are required to take 1 credit in the visual, performing, or applied arts. Additionally, students (beginning with the class of 2016) must complete 2 credits of a foreign language. An important note: while individual districts may require additional credits, the Michigan Merit Curriculum provides minimum numbers. The evidence we have suggests these required credits in the arts matter for ensuring art education experiences in schools. When the arts were included as a core subject under the federal GOALS 2000 legislation in the late 1990s, states began to require the arts as part of high school graduation requirements (44 states and the district of Columbia now require arts credits for graduation). Theres a trickle-down effect on a more local level, too. When a state requires the arts, districts employ more certified arts educators and offer a more robust variety of arts courses. The needed flexibility for students and schools has always been present, too. The current arts requirement includes the applied arts, which can incorporate industrial technology courses. Also, even with the requirements in place, students have been able to modify requirements as part of a personal curriculum if they choose. Finally, we also know that at least 12% of high schools in 2012 werent complying with the arts requirement of the Michigan Merit Curriculum. Put simply, the Michigan Merit Curriculum and its arts requirement are not cumbersome or keeping students from job training programs. If these bills pass, students could opt to take three credits of computer coding, or three credits of foreign language, or three credits in a CTE program. They could even take three arts creditsso whats the problem? The proposed bills are problematic for Michigan students for several reasons. First, they would likely diminish or potentially eliminate arts opportunities. Students who might not take an arts course immediately probably wouldnt, thereby missing out on the valuable experiences one gains in the arts. More troubling is the prospect of schools deciding not to offer arts courses at all. If a school can focus electives only on CTE education and computer coding, especially when these programs are commonly supported by private grants or run at the intermediate school district (ISD) level, wouldnt they do so? Second, putting the arts into a pool of 21st Century Skills courses sets up a false equivalency among curricular experiences. When the State Board of Education approved the arts requirement, it stated an important goal for all students: The goal of the visual, performing, and applied arts credit guidelines is to ensure that all students have a foundation and experience in the complete artistic/creative process. This process, the board noted, is non-linear and requires that the student explore possibilities, thinking divergently to solve problems. Put simply, this artistic process is not fulfilled by foreign language courses, computer coding, or CTE classes, but is integral to arts disciplines. Michigan has relatively weak arts education policies. We are one of only a handful of states that does not require elementary school arts experiences, does not require the arts in middle school, and allows classroom teachers without arts training to teach the arts in primary grades. Lets keep the one credit arts requirementits a bright spot that ensures all students in Michigan learn the valuable lessons offered by a rich curriculum. Reach key decision makers with sales-ready leads that shorten your sales process. Move the needle by delivering funnel qualified leads to your sales team. Learn more Mark Zuckerbergs most recent effort to change the conversation about Facebook seems like just another attempt at self-justification. In a recent Washington Post op-ed, he places the onus squarely on the shoulders of government to do the right things by regulating how social media works. From what Ive learned, I believe we need new regulation in four areas: harmful content, election integrity, privacy and data portability, Zuckerberg wrote. Translation: Please keep me from doing this because I cant do it myself. Zuckerberg isnt alone. There is no doubt we need some kind of regulation in these areas. But will his recommendations actually solve some of the problems in social media that were surfaced by the companys runaway success? My bet is they wont, for important reasons. Leveling the Field Social media has traversed a typical lifecycle in a rags-to-riches story. The story often ends with some form of regulation because the innovation social media in this case can dominate a society as it becomes a monopoly or oligopoly, and the social media landscape certainly qualifies. There might be multiple social media companies, but each does a different thing, and each exists more or less as a unique entity. Customers want and need it this way. Social media represents a network of users, and a big network is more valuable than two smaller ones. If Facebook had direct competition, social wouldnt be as useful. Vendors being vendors, theyd ensure that data didnt cross platforms easily or well, at least early on. Zuckerbergs recommendations call for easy data portability, though its hard to see where youd take it if you could get it. You might include Twitter or Instagram or the other social media vendors in the same category, but they are as different as pineapples and sweet potatoes. So, at this stage of development, The People often set down rules that all players have to abide by to optimize utility for the users. Its just leveling the playing field. Back in the day, there were many different railroad track gauges. The practical effect of this strategy meant that competitors couldnt use each others tracks. Freight that had to cross onto a different rail line had to be unloaded and reloaded, adding cost and delay to what should have been a simple process. Multiple roads served the same cities in cutthroat competition. Regulation changed that, and it often has a commoditizing effect on the activity being regulated, to which The People say, too bad. So Zuckerbergs ideas arent bad at all, but they are probably not enough for a global market. Global Market, Local Solution? Facebook is global in scope, which means that regulations promulgated in the U.S. would have a lot of influence around the world but maybe not enough. There are other players who want a say in how Facebook behaves. For instance, the EU consistently has been ahead of Facebook and the rest of the industry in trying to protect its citizens privacy with regulations like GDPR. If Zuckerberg really was serious about his four bullet points, he could always adopt some of the EUs ideas as company standards. Why does he want/need U.S. law on the subject? Does he feel he can influence the U.S. standards setting process? A D V E R T I S E M E N T Whatever the ultimate regulation is, it would be best for all parties if the regulations were universally adopted. For that reason, having U.S.-centric regs is nice, but Is This the Right Business Model? Before going much further, we need to ask, is the Facebook/Google advertising business model the best it can come up with? Capitalists understand the importance of a business making money at what it does, but Facebook and social media generally have been making money selling things they ought not. So, no amount of regulation is going to make up for a lousy business model. The real hangup is selling data about individuals and their behavior patterns to advertisers and, it has to be said, almost anyone else who can pay. Facebook, Google and many other social and AI vendors began life in an era when their products were applications based in the Internet. Now these vendors have morphed into platforms that support multiple apps that share customer data and leverage analytics to influence the way users think and the way they use the platforms products. Importantly, they make it hard for vendors competing at the application level to have a level playing field at the platform level. The whole social media industry has become big enough that some thought it would make sense to break up the vendors, or at least establish a firewall between the different entities. Perhaps warding off that eventuality is a motivator for Zuckerbergs call for regulation? In regulatory history, we see walls going up all the time. For instance, in banking, the Depression-era Glass-Stiegel act separated a banks commercial banking from its investment side to prevent a repeat of the problems that led to the Great Depression. That lasted about 70 years, until some geniuses decided deregulation in the banking industry would be fun. It caused the housing crisis, the Great Recession, and a 10-year economic slump felt around the world. Where were we? Oh, yes, regulation and separation. Theyre good ideas and they work, and the Internet and social media are ripe for some form of each. Unfortunately, regulation would put a crimp in the Silicon Valley business model of selling advertising. So, the social media companies are looking everywhere for things that look like solutions that also will preserve their business model but in the end, they probably wont work. We need to bite the bullet and split them up. Theyll find enough ways to make money. Thats also part of economic history. We Also Need a Treaty Many people break out in a rash whenever we talk about regulation or international treaties, and now is an especially good moment for rashes. The effort to make America great again is all about strength through independence, unless a deal is so lopsidedly good for America that it must be done. The same people also fret about international government taking away local sovereignty; just consider Brexit. Really, were already bound together by treaties. Internationally, we agree about clean air, climate, and eliminating chloro-fluoro-carbons. Theres a Law of the Sea. Theres even the Geneva Conventions on War. Also, theres the World Trade Organization, which manages how we trade goods and services at low or zero tariffs. This is the appropriate level for discussing how to make elections safe and make trading partnerships work. This is the level where at least the industrialized nations should come together to agree what can and cant be done across social platforms. Implementing a Treaty Theres no requirement that all nations have to agree on what an election is, for instance, to implement a strong plank on noninterference. The fact that a nation declares its election season open should be all thats required to keep other treaty signatories from interfering by launching cyberattacks. Speaking of cyberattacks, since were living in one homogenizing market, it should go without saying that business partners dont, or at least shouldnt, perform industrial espionage and hacking against each other. You cant have it both ways, which is why social, data privacy and noninterference with another nations internal affairs should be part of the WTO and treaties like it. Bad IT behavior should be sanctioned within the trading regimes with expulsion as an ultimate step. Where To? Theres no doubt civilization is at a crossroads in IT, including social media, data and international hacking. The brainchild of the 20th century is maturing, and with maturation comes abuse and bad habits. Regulating a company like Facebook was once a good idea, but now it seems quaint and wildly short of the mark. Zuckerbergs call for regulation seems at best an attempt to steer away from the worst impacts of regulation on social media companies while saving socials precious business model. This smacks of trying to burn the candle at both ends. Big cloud computing companies that rely on selling advertising have reached a tipping point. They are too big and successful for society to live without them, but their current outlaw behavior needs to be tamed. Local laws alone, even within a big and sophisticated country like the U.S., will not solve the myriad problems surfaced by social media and tech in international space over the last few years. We may have reached a point when regulation is necessary, but so too is international agreement over acceptable behavior by nation states. I never said this was going to be easy, but were all adults and this, or something like it, is needed. The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of ECT News Network. Senateur Gregoire Mba Mba Archives Over 2000 youths for two days converged in Kribi, Ocean Division of the South Region to gather knowledge on employment opportunities and trainings in local firms, industries and organisations. These youths aged between 20 to 40 years, received lessons on entrepreneurship, political vision/mentoring and investments, in a two days workshop that rounded up on Wednesday May 8. They were mobilised by Senator Gregoire Mba Mba of the ruling CPDM party, who revealed that following signed partnerships with some local firms to train young people in maritime trades, these youths will eventually gain mass employment at the Kribi Port Authority. Some firms sponsoring the forum, according to the Senator, make a lot of money in Kribi, hence should contribute to its development, by employing youths of that community. "I will personally ensure that young people are accepted for paid internships during holidays and those trained are employed afterwards. Our goal is to reduce unemployment in our city and make the youth part of our development, said Senator Mba Mba. "The impact will be social and economic as well. If our people are not happy, those who have invested in Kribi will find it difficult to continue with their activities. Above all, the dividends of the forum will be felt beyond Kribi to the whole South region., he continued. The forum enabled some 25 youths to benefit financial aid of FCFA 10 million from the Integrated Support Program for Informal Sector(PIAASI), to boost income generating activities. Senator Mba Mba Emergency group will also finance small scale businesses of some 50 youths, at the cost of FCFA 50,000 each. At the opening ceremony on May 7, the representative of President Paul Biya, the deputy director of the civil cabinet at the Presidency, Oswald Babuke, challenged youths of the Ocean Division, to take advantage if the opportunity at hand and make responsible choices. He reiterated President Paul Biyas stance, towards youth empowerment and continuous support. Students with disabilities face substantially increased rates of abuse and restraint in schools. As an education and disability advocate seeking to change that, I frequently encounter well-meaning arguments for separating higher-needs students from the general population. Many parents and teachers express sympathy, yet also a desire to keep certain groups of students away from the general population for a variety of reasons. Is mainstreaming special needs kids a good idea if it prevents the other kids from learning? And what were the 20-something other kids in the room doing when the teacher was spending most of her time attending to your special-needs child? Its too bad the other children are the ones who lose out when special-needs kids are mainstreamed. This story is all well and good, but it means that this womans child got way more than the other children did in terms of support and attention. These are the types of comments found in parent forums and in response to articles about autism and other disabilities in the classroom. And they are echoed by teachers who are facing poorly integrated classrooms with strong behavior challenges. Resistance to inclusion itself as a practice remains entrenched. Many teachers and parents do not know the pedagogy behind inclusive instruction. Inclusion is not about throwing disabled children into general education classrooms without support or tools and leaving teachers to clean up the resultant chaos. Schools dont meet anyones needs when they integrate thoughtlessly. They also do not meet the legal requirements defined by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, which guarantees all children the right to free appropriate public education. That includes education for disabled students in the least-restrictive environment possiblenot segregated and sequestered away from their peers. Inclusion works when educators collaborate, get the support they need, and believe in the value of all students." It might be less convenient at first for teachers and students (and parents) to learn about and embrace the disabled student populations at their schools. But there is no inherent right to be free from inconvenience. Perhaps its time to look more closely at why we as educators and parents are demanding that to begin with. Inclusion, by definition, involves carefully assessing a childs needs and then implementing a strategic plan to support that child within the general classroom setting. This is done by a special education team, rather than one general education teacher. The team offers options such as teacher training, team-teaching, pushed-in special education instruction, classroom accommodations (a standing desk, computer workstation, etc.), an interpreter, or a classroom assistant added to the room for portions of the day. My son is autistic, and he has an assistant in his mainstream classroom to support him and several other students as needed. The rest of my sons accommodations rarely affect his classmates at all. He uses a keyboard to write, he meets with the school counselor when hes overwhelmed, and he has social-skills mentoring. The staff at his school meets and works together, mainstreaming children of all abilities. Test scores and academic achievement remain strong, even with a push-in of students from a countywide behavioral program for students with significant emotional disabilities. The general education students are doing great! Cost is frequently at the heart of arguments against inclusion. It does take money to adequately support special needs students in mainstream classrooms, of course. It costs significantly less to push an assistant in and offer training, however, than to create a separate classroom with a special education teacher or place a child in a specialized private school. The cost of time is more significant. Inclusion requires teachers, schools, and entire school systems to commit to the model. It requires training and a general overhaul in perspectiveabout the role of education and the inherent value of each child and his or her learning experiencedisabled or not. However, inclusion is best practice for disabled and non-disabled students alike. Studies show that when inclusion is done well, the whole class benefits. It doesnt take away from one group to focus on anotherquite the opposite. It enhances the ability of non-disabled kids to cooperate, work together, understand and value different perspectives, think critically, and even test well. Yes, research indicates that a majority of general education students test the same or better on standardized tests when they are educated in the same classroom environment as their disabled peers. Classrooms that have several unsupported students with severe behavioral disabilities are the exception. But diagnoses like this are rare, and added supports for those students seems to be key. When supported and given adequate training and tools, teachers in inclusive classrooms understand and instruct a variety of learners, individualizing instruction to meet the needs of all learners better. Students have varied needs and strengths, whether disabled or not. Teachers in inclusion settings learn to address this and teach better because of it. Empathywhich cannot be measured quantitativelymatters, too. How children view peers who look and learn differently from themselves is also a consideration as they grow to adulthood and become members of their communities, and as they live and work alongside a diverse array of citizens. Its a critical factor in whether communities and workplaces are able to function and thrive. Finally, and most importantly, disabled students can achieve. Their talents and gifts are varied, as are the talents and gifts of all students. They are legally entitled to an appropriate public education, but they also have so much to offer their non-disabled peers, teachers, and schools. Inclusion works when educators collaborate, get the support they need, and believe in the value of all students. Its time for schools and teachers to reevaluate their long-held biases, and its time to address the initial financial investment required for training and staffing. Its also the law. Inclusion is the least expensive, most effective method of teaching students. It starts from the top, with administrators making this a priority. When administrators model inclusivity and support teachers in its implementation, the entire school (and school system) culture changes. Test scores are rarely negatively impacted and often go up. More importantly, children become better citizens. Inclusion is best practice. It is also, quite simply, the right way to teach. Early U.S. educational philosophers linked the provision of common schools to the production of a healthy, well-informed citizenry. Although civics has lately taken a back seat to reading, math, and testing regimes, most parents probably share that goal today. But it would likely come as a surprise to many of them to learn that enrolling their children in schools also means putting them in a place thats legally permitted to curtail some of their childrens constitutional rights. Constitutional rights assume particular contours within the nations schools that are different than when minors are in the public park across from schools, said Justin Driver, whose recent book, The Schoolhouse Gate, analyzes the complicated history of U.S. Supreme Court rulings on student rights. 1st Amendment: Free Speech This is the amendment everyone remembers. But it wasnt until 1969, in the famous Tinker v. Des Moines ruling, that the Supreme Court recognized that it also applies to schools. The court said students could engage in political speech at school by wearing black armbands to protest the Vietnam War. However, other Supreme Court rulings have constrained students speech. Administrators have some leeway to censor student-newspaper articles, for example. And students can be restricted on speech thats considered vulgar or lewd, promotes drug use, causes a material and substantial disruption to school, or infringes on another students rights. The last two pieces remain especially fuzzy, especially in this day and age of social media. 4th Amendment: Search & Seizure The government and the police generally cant search homes or belongings unless they have a warrant or probable cause that someone committed a crime. But the Supreme Court has ruled that students dont get the same level of protection. School officials generally only need to have a reasonable suspicion to search students belongings or their person, and its not always clear where a search suddenly moves from permissible to intrusive. The court also ruled that its OK to require students to take a random drug test, even if theres no evidence that they are using drugs. 5th Amendment: Self-Incrimination Do students have the right to plead the Fifth when being questioned at school by law-enforcement officials? In light of recent concerns about the racial impact of student discipline and safety policies, its an increasingly pressing question. In 2011, the Supreme Court found that the Fifth Amendment rights of a 13-year-old student interrogated by a police officer at school were violated because he wasnt warned of his right to remain silent. But the court didnt clarify whether this applied to all minors, or whether school resource officers must also read students their rights. 8th Amendment: Cruel & Unusual Punishment The U.S. military outlawed corporal punishment in 1862, and all states had ended it as a judge-ordered punishment by the early 1970s. But its still permissible to hit students in more than a dozen states. The Supreme Court has repeatedly upheld paddling. 14th Amendment: Due Process When students land in hot water, they dont get the same procedural protections as adult citizens do. Typically, they only receive minimal due-process rights. They need only be told what they did wrong and given a chance to respond; they do not need to be given anything in writing before being punished. Thursday, May 9, 2019 at 2:28PM Add another landmark location for the instersection oftechnology and the humanities. Apple today previewed its newest location at the Carnegie Library on Mount Vernon Square. This is Apples most extensive historic restoration project to date, restoring and revitalizing the Beaux-Arts style building once home to Washington, D.C.s Central Public Library. Originally funded by Andrew Carnegie and opened in 1903, the historic library will once again be a centre for learning, discovery and creativity for the community, keeping with Carnegies vision of a public and free space (and WiFi) for all. Apple Carnegie Library will host free daily Today at Apple programming, including sessions led by local artists and world class creators. To celebrate the opening, 40 artists will lead sessions during the six-week StoryMaker Festival. At the store, customers can explore Apples latest products and work with over 225 highly trained staff members offering advice and technical support, as well as assistance for small businesses. Whether customers come to explore new products, visit one of our Geniuses or unlock their creativity in a Today at Apple session, Apple Carnegie Library is a place for everyone," said Deirdre OBrien, Apples senior vice president of Retail + People. We are excited to share this magnificent space with all of our visitors in Washington, D.C., and to provide a home for inspiration for the next generation. Carnegie Library on Mount Vernon Square also features the new DC History Center, which includes the Kiplinger Research Library, three galleries and a museum store, all owned and operated by the 125-year-old Historical Society of Washington, D.C. To restore the building to its original grandeur, Apple worked with conservation experts to carefully preserve the historic facades, return interior spaces to their original footprints, and restore distinctive early 20th-century detailing. Foster + Partners worked in close collaboration with Apples Chief Design Officer Jony Ive to give this cultural icon a new lease of life. WASHINGTON--Larch trees in the permafrost forests of northeastern China--the northernmost tree species on Earth - are growing faster as a result of climate change, according to new research. A new study of growth rings from Dahurian larch in China's northern forests finds the hardy trees grew more from 2005 to 2014 than in the preceding 40 years. The findings also show the oldest trees have had the biggest growth spurts: Trees older than 400 years grew more rapidly in those 10 years than in the past 300 years, according to the new study. The study's authors suspect warmer soil temperatures are fueling the growth spurts by lowering the depth of the permafrost layer, allowing the trees' roots to expand and suck up more nutrients. The increased growth is good for the trees in the short-term but may be disastrous for the forests in the long-term, according to the authors. As the climate continues to warm, the permafrost underneath the trees may eventually degrade and no longer be able to support the slow-growing trees. No other tree species can survive the permafrost plains this far north, so if the larch forests of northern Asia disappear, the entire ecosystem would change, according to the study's authors. "The disappearance of larch would be a disaster to the forest ecosystem in this region," said Xianliang Zhang, an ecologist at Shenyang Agricultural University in Shenhang, China, and lead author of the new study in AGU's Journal of Geophysical Research: Biogeosciences. Earth's hardiest trees Dahurian larch is Earth's northernmost tree species and its most cold-hardy: These larches are the only trees that can tolerate the frigid permafrost plains of Russia, Mongolia and northern China. Chinese locals refer to Dahurian larch as "thin-old-trees," because they grow slowly in the thin active layer of soil above the permafrost and can live for more than 400 years. Permafrost regions around the world have been thawing in recent decades due to rising temperatures, sometimes degrading into swamps and wetlands. In the new study, Zhang and his colleagues analyzed growth rings from more than 400 Dahurian larch in old-growth forests of northeastern China, the southernmost portion of the tree's range, to see how the trees are faring in a warming climate. Tree rings allow scientists to measure how much trees grow from year to year. Much like people, trees do most of their growing while young. Dahurian larch generally grow rapidly until they become around 150 years old, at which point their growth slows. When the trees hit 300 years old, their growth basically stalls. The researchers used the width of each tree's growth rings to calculate how much area each tree gained in cross-section each year over the course of its lifetime. The results show Dahurian larch trees grew more from 2005 to 2014 than from 1964 to 2004. Interestingly, the effect was most pronounced in the oldest trees: Trees older than 300 years grew 80 percent more from 2005 to 2014 than in the preceding 40 years. Trees between 250 and 300 years old grew 35 percent more during that time period, while trees younger than 250 years grew between 11 and 13 percent more. The old trees' growth is unusual - it's akin to a 100-year-old person suddenly getting taller, according to Zhang. The authors suspect older trees are growing more than younger trees because they have more developed root systems that can harvest resources from the soil more efficiently. The researchers compared the trees' growth rates to climate factors like soil temperatures and precipitation data over the past 50 years to see what was causing the unusual growth. They found increased soil temperatures, especially in winter, are likely powering the growth spurts. They suspect the warmer temperatures lower the depth of the permafrost layer, providing the trees' roots more room to expand and access to more nutrients. While this initial soil warming has benefitted Dahurian larch, further permafrost thaw could likely decrease tree growth and even cause the forest to decay, according to the authors. Dahurian larch can't survive in wet conditions, so permafrost changing to wetlands or peatlands would be detrimental to the forest as a whole, they said. "If the larch forest retreat in this region in the future, it is also not a good sign for the whole boreal forest," Zhang said. While other research has examined the effects of a warming climate on temperature-sensitive trees in North America, the new study examined temperature-sensitive trees in permafrost areas, which have been less widely studied but are a vast component of the boreal forest, said Erika Wise, an associate professor of geography at the University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill, who was not involved in the new study. Additionally, previous studies on these larch trees have focused on the effects of air temperature and precipitation, but the new study looked at the influence of ground surface temperatures, which has also not been studied widely, she added. "Their arguments make a lot of logical sense in terms of why the trees might benefit from the increased winter ground surface temperatures, which is that especially things like an earlier spring thaw could really help trees get growing earlier, more ability to have root activity in the cold months, these sort of things would make sense in why trees would benefit from warmer winters in particular," Wise said. ### Founded in 1919, AGU is a not-for-profit scientific society dedicated to advancing Earth and space science for the benefit of humanity. We support 60,000 members, who reside in 135 countries, as well as our broader community, through high-quality scholarly publications, dynamic meetings, our dedication to science policy and science communications, and our commitment to building a diverse and inclusive workforce, as well as many other innovative programs. AGU is home to the award-winning news publication Eos , the Thriving Earth Exchange , where scientists and community leaders work together to tackle local issues, and a headquarters building that represents Washington, D.C.'s first net zero energy commercial renovation. We are celebrating our Centennial in 2019. #AGU100 Notes for Journalists This paper is freely available through May 31. Journalists and public information officers (PIOs) can download a PDF copy of the article by clicking on this link: https://agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1029/2018JG004882 Journalists and PIOs may also request a copy of the final paper by emailing Liza Lester at llester@agu.orgllester@agu.org. Please provide your name, the name of your publication, and your phone number. Neither the paper nor this press release is under embargo. Paper Title "Warmer winter ground temperatures trigger rapid growth of Dahurian larch in the permafrost forests of northeast China" Authors: Xianlian Zhang, College of Forestry, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang, China and College of Forestry, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, China Xuping Bai and Zhenju Chen, College of Forestry, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang, China Meiting Hou, China Meteorological Administration Training Centre, China Meteorological Administration, Beijing, China Ruben D. Manzanedo, Harvard Forest, Harvard University, Petersham, MA, USA and Biology Department, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA AGU press contact: Liza Lester +1 (202) 777-7494 llester@agu.orgllester@agu.org Researcher contacts: Xianliang Zhang (+86) 18742456171 zhxianliang@126.comzhxianliang@126.com Shenyang, China (UTC +8) Ruben D. Manzanedo +1 (413) 336-1120 rdmanzanedo@fas.harvard.edurdmanzanedo@fas.harvard.edu Seattle, Washington (UTC -7) Leesburg, VA, May 9, 2019--Although arterial phase hyperenhancement (APHE) is a key feature of untreated or recurrent hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), standard response assessment such as modified Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors (mRECIST) should be used with caution, particularly in the early phases after stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) therapy, so as not to misinterpret treatment response, according to a study to be presented at the ARRS 2019 Annual Meeting, set for May 5-10 in Honolulu, HI. The study was conducted to determine the natural history of imaging findings seen by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of HCC treated with SBRT and test the hypothesis that APHE following SBRT does not suggest persistent untreated tumor. A total of 146 patients undergoing SBRT for HCC were retrospectively screened for inclusion criteria which included HCC treated with SBRT, multiphasic MRI =3 months prior to SBRT, minimum 1 year of follow-up MRI after SBRT, and underlying cirrhosis. Exclusion criterion was any patient who underwent locoregional therapy within 3 months to the liver segment containing the SBRT-treated HCC. Sixty-two patients with 67 HCCs were included in the study. Within the first 12 months after SBRT, size decreased in 66% of treated tumors and remained unchanged in 34%. After SBRT, 75% of treated HCCs continued to demonstrate solid arterial phase enhancement, and only 25% were nonenhancing at the time of first follow-up. Of the treated tumors demonstrating arterial enhancement, 58% were APHE. Based on these posttreatment enhancement patterns, when graded by mRECIST criteria at 3-6 months, 25% met criteria for complete response (CR), and 75% met criteria for stable disease (SD). However, at 1 year none of the 67 tumors were clinically judged to have local progression. Study results suggest SBRT is an effective locoregional treatment option for HCC and is associated with a low local progression rate. Persistent arterial phase enhancement is an expected post-SBRT finding, and does not indicate viable neoplasm; thus, using standard response assessment classification systems such as mRECIST may lead to a misinterpretation of treatment response, particularly in the early phases after SBRT therapy. Mishal Mendiratta-Lala, MD, author of the study said "The results of this research are extremely exciting, as it will significantly impact clinical care. Historically, APHE seen in HCC treated with SBRT has been interpreted as viable disease and patients have undergone repeat treatments. However, our results, as well as a few additional studies from our institution, suggest that these lesions are non-viable, and thus these patients do not need to undergo additional treatments, and can even be eligible for transplant." ### With educational activities representing the entire spectrum of radiology, ARRS will host leading radiologists from around the world at the ARRS 2019 Annual Meeting, May 5-10, at the Hawaii Convention Center in Honolulu, Hawaii. For more information, visit: http://www.arrs.org/am19. (WASHINGTON, May 9, 2019) -- Hematologists are zeroing in on the escalating humanitarian crisis in southern Europe by assessing the burden of blood disorders among refugees and identifying strategies to facilitate more timely identification and treatment of refugees with sickle cell disease (SCD). A study from an Italian research team published today in Blood suggests SCD is common among refugees and screening efforts should be increased. SCD is an inherited disorder that affects the production of hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells that delivers oxygen to cells throughout the body. This abnormal hemoglobin can cause red blood cells to become rigid and sickle shaped. The cells stick together and can block the flow of blood and oxygen throughout the body, leading to intense pain and other serious issues such as stroke, infection, pulmonary complications, and even death. Experts stress that, for migrants with known or undiagnosed SCD, the extreme conditions during their travels - dehydration, psychological stress, and exposure to very high or low temperatures - can trigger severe pain crises. Delays in care can lead to severe organ complications and death. Researchers led by Lucia De Franceschi, MD, of the University of Verona in Italy, found that the vast majority of migrants arriving to Italy are from areas where SCD is highly prevalent, notably sub-Saharan countries, which consistently report the highest burden of SCD globally. In fact, an estimated 80 percent of all newborns with SCD are born in this region, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Even though SCD is endemic to these areas and has been identified as a global health priority by the African Union and the World Health Organization, there is currently no screening program. Based on their analysis of 2014-2017 data from 13 Italian reference centers, SCD was relatively common in refugees, and it was primarily identified when individuals went to emergency departments for acute sickle cell-related events. De Franceschi reports the rates of anemia were higher among refugees than in the native Italian SCD population, which could be due to malnutrition. A total of 70 patients with hemoglobin disorders were identified, the majority of whom were male. Half were adults with the median age of 21 years and the other half were children. Most came from West African countries Senegal and Nigeria, as well as Morocco, Egypt, and Tunisia in North Africa, and Syria in the Middle East. During this same four-year period, researchers report a total of 624,688 refugees arrived on the Italian coast. "Our data underscore the need to more systematically screen refugees coming from areas where SCD is endemic and suggest a strong national network might help to spur action," said De Franceschi, whose work is supported by University of Verona (FUR) and the scientific Italian society for studying hemoglobinopathies (SITE). "Early identification of cases can help prevent severe SCD-related events and life-threatening complications and redirect patients to comprehensive SCD centers for specialty clinical management, follow-up, and timely initiation of treatment." The group pilot tested a program that screened all refugees at a single refugee center using one of the new rapid point-of-care screening devices (SickleSCAN BioMedomics, Inc.), the results of which were then validated using the gold standard laboratory test. Front-line health providers in refugee centers and emergency department personnel were trained to recognize the signs and symptoms of SCD and intervene to provide necessary care. De Franceschi said this approach has allowed them to offer treatment with hydroxyurea and maintain routine clinical follow-up of newly identified SCD patients. De Franceschi said that, based on their findings, efforts should focus on: Routine screening for SCD in refugees from countries endemic for SCD within 10-14 days from their arrival to identify potentially vulnerable patients A structured, collaborative national network Educating ED physicians to identify and treat acute SCD-related events "We hope our data might open international political and social discussions about the accessibility of health care for refugees to treat both acute and chronic complications related to SCD," De Franceschi said. ### In a commentary of the study published today in Blood, authors Russell E. Ware, MD, PhD, and Courtney D. Thornburg, MD, MS, write that based on this study incoming migrants should be routinely tested for SCD and so should their offspring. ### Blood (http://www.bloodjournal.org), the most cited peer-reviewed publication in the field of hematology, is available weekly in print and online. Blood is a journal of the American Society of Hematology (ASH) (http://www.hematology.org), the world's largest professional society concerned with the causes and treatment of blood disorders. ASH's mission is to further the understanding, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of disorders affecting blood, bone marrow, and the immunologic, hemostatic, and vascular systems by promoting research, clinical care, education, training, and advocacy in hematology. Blood is a registered trademark of the American Society of Hematology. Entrepreneurs should play a role in making our world more sustainable--or is their role in bringing about change a matter of business opportunity? A new study, to be published 9 May 2019, has found three distinct ways in which the European Union defines what entrepreneurship means for sustainable development, producing a blurry message of the role entrepreneurs and business owners have to play in tackling the global issue. 'If sustainable development is a serious matter and the end goal is to actually have impact across 28 nations, EU policy needs more focus,' says Virva Salmivaara, lead author of the study and post-doctoral researcher at Aalto University in Finland. More than 20 million small- and medium-sized businesses call the EU home, making entrepreneurs key drivers for economic growth, innovation and employment across the region. The new in-depth analysis shows that, when it comes to sustainability, entrepreneurs and small businesses are seen in EU policy in three diverging ways: economic beneficiaries of the shift towards sustainability; pro-social contributors active in finding innovative, sustainable solutions; or opportunistic operators whose business interests simply collide with those of broader society. 'The rhetoric used by EU policy-makers paints a very ambiguous picture of the role businesses play in the sustainability shift,' explains Ewald Kibler, assistant professor of entrepreneurship at Aalto University. 'For example, when policy says that entrepreneurs can take advantage of the growing demand for eco-friendly products and services, it ends up suggesting that sustainable development is not, in fact, a pressing problem that businesses need to tackle, but rather an optimistic change that offers new business opportunities. These are two very different understandings of what entrepreneurs can--and should--do,' Kibler says. Across the policies studied, sustainable development seems to be urgently needed when it could improve the business environment for entrepreneurs. However, taking a sustainable approach is framed as a voluntary option for the enterprises, something entrepreneurs can do now or later. 'Based on our findings, EU policy makers often portray enterprises as passive players when it comes to sustainability,' says Salmivaara. 'Accordingly, it seems that EU states are actually expected to prioritise enterprise development over sustainable development. If the aim is to develop a more sustainable economy and society, EU policy needs to engage in a deeper debate and address how to balance both business interests and sustainable development.' The study draws on more than 40 key EU policy documents released in 2010-2017, stemming from the Europe 2020 strategy for smart, sustainable and inclusive growth. ### And nearly one in 20 of them experienced aggression, indicates largest survey of its kind One in five people in England have been harmed in some way by others' drinking over the past year, suggest the results of the largest survey of its kind in the UK, published in the online journal BMJ Open. Nearly one in 20 of them experienced aggression--physically threatened or hurt, or forced/pressurised into something sexual, the findings indicate. In 2012, alcohol was responsible for around 6 per cent of all deaths and 5 per cent of all ill health around the globe. The survey of 5000 adults across England looked at the extent, type, and frequency of the harms associated with other people's drinking, who is most likely to be affected, as well as who and what might be driving it. The researchers drew on an extended Alcohol Toolkit Survey (ATS), carried out between November 2015 and January 2016. The ATS is a nationally representative household survey, which includes a new sample of adults every month. The extended survey included 18 additional questions on a wide range of potential harms associated with other people's drinking. These ranged from actual or threatened physical violence, through emotional hurt or neglect or having to care for someone whose drinking had resulted in illness/disability, to being kept awake at night because of associated noise and disruption. Those who said they had been in any of these situations in the past 12 months were asked to say who had been responsible, and how often it had happened. They were also asked how much they drank themselves, using a validated measure (AUDIT) which identifies levels of hazardous/harmful drinking. Data were available for 4874 respondents. These showed that one in five (just over 20%; 980) people said they had experienced at least one of the 18 harms as a result of someone else's drinking over the past year. The most commonly reported harm was being kept awake at night (8%) or feeling anxious/uncomfortable at a social occasion (nearly 7%). But around one in 20 (4.6%; 225) said they had experienced violence/aggression--physically threatened or hurt, or forced/pressurised into sex. Men (5.3%) were slightly more likely than women (4%) to experience violence/aggression while women were around twice as likely as men to say they had experienced emotional harm/neglect (just under 5% vs just over 2%). Friends (590) and strangers (578) were the most commonly cited perpetrators, accounting for around half (46%) of the reported incidents. One in five (19%) respondents who reported having been forced or pressurised into something sexual, said this was at the hands of a stranger, but the most commonly cited perpetrator was a co-habiting partner (23%, rising to almost 40% when including partners who lived elsewhere). While most harms were experienced less than monthly (75%), around 5 per cent were experienced daily or near daily. The factors associated with experiencing harm were younger age (16-24); white British ethnicity; having qualifications; living in private rented accommodation, rather than being a home-owner; having a disability; and being a hazardous drinker. Hazardous drinkers were more than twice as likely to report harm as a result of someone else's drinking (nearly 38%) than those whose drinking was not at this level (just over 17%). People with children in the household and those who were retired were less likely to experience harm. This is an observational and exploratory study, and as such, can't establish cause. What's more, the responses relied on recall, and some groups, such as the homeless, and those in hospital, care, or in prisons, weren't included--factors which might have affected the results, caution the researchers. But they point out: "This is the largest ever survey of [alcohol-related harms to others] conducted within the UK, and the first national study in England." They add: "It is clear that [alcohol-related harm to others] is relatively prevalent and that some individuals experience harm frequently. The most prevalent harms could be considered insignificant, but even apparently minor harms such as sleep disruption can have an impact on health and quality of life, particularly if experienced persistently." And they conclude: "Policies that focus on alcohol must take into consideration the impact of drinking on those other than the drinker." ### NEW YORK, NY (May 9, 2019)-- The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) has awarded TB Alliance a Center of Excellence in Translational Research (CETR) grant (U19AI142735) for tuberculosis (TB) drug development. New translational research to develop novel anti-TB medicines is being carried out with partners at the University of Illinois at Chicago, Harvard University, Johns Hopkins University, and Research Triangle Institute. "Expanding the global portfolio of new TB drug candidates, from which we can assemble tomorrow's shorter and simpler cures, is crucial in the fight against TB," said Mel Spigelman, M.D., president and CEO of TB Alliance. "We are excited to advance this work with our partners and grateful for NIAID's support." The five-year project has initiated with an NIAID commitment of $5.5 million in first-year funding through March 2020, totaling up to $28.4 million by 2024. The main objective of the CETR is to develop two new anti-TB drugs that, in combination and with other novel drugs, can be used to treat all forms of TB in less than two months. The compounds under development modulate protein production and degradation as an integrated approach to rapid sterilization of drug-sensitive and multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB). This multidisciplinary consortium brings together key expertise on three major drug targets that are components of the complex and coordinated network of biological processes essential for propagation of TB bacteria. TB is the leading infectious cause of death worldwide. In 2017, 10 million people fell ill from active TB and 1.6 million people died. Drug-resistant TB is on the rise, with more than half a million cases of MDR-TB reported in 2017. The epidemic is largely fueled by lengthy and complex treatments for drug-sensitive disease--which typically lasts 6 months and requires four drugs--and much more complex, burdensome, and less effective cures for drug-resistant forms. For people with MDR-TB, treatment lasts from 9 to 24 months and often requires more than 14,000 total pills per patient. At the 2018 United Nations High-Level Meeting on TB, world leaders committed to investing in and accelerating the global effort to end TB. While the global portfolio of new drugs has begun to show signs of progress over the past decade, an increasingly robust and diverse portfolio of new TB drugs is urgently needed to introduce treatments that are affordable, safe, shorter in duration and more effective than currently-available treatment options. NIAID's CETR program was founded to support translational research activities ranging from early discovery-based efforts to late-stage preclinical development or medical countermeasures for emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases. Potentially promising compounds have faced significant challenges in attracting the long-term funding needed to evaluate their potential safety and efficacy in treating people with TB. The estimated $1.3 billion annual funding gap for TB research and development is an obstacle to developing the new tools - including drugs - that are needed to end the global TB pandemic. ### About TB Alliance TB Alliance is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to finding faster-acting and affordable drug regimens to fight TB. Through innovative science and with partners around the globe, we aim to ensure equitable access to faster, better TB cures that will advance global health and prosperity. TB Alliance operates with support from Australia's Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Germany's Federal Ministry of Education and Research through KfW, Global Health Innovative Technology Fund, Indonesia Health Fund, Irish Aid, Medical Research Council (United Kingdom), National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Netherlands Ministry of Foreign Affairs, United Kingdom Department for International Development, UK Department of Health, and the United States Agency for International Development. About CETR In 2014, NIAID established the Centers of Excellence for Translational Research (CETR) program. Supported translational activities will range from very early discovery-based efforts to late-stage preclinical development. The CETR program builds on work of previous NIAID-supported research and development programs, including the Regional Centers of Excellence for Biodefense and Emerging Infectious Diseases Research (RCE) program, and is intended to complement and enhance ongoing translational and product development activities. About Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health brings together dedicated experts from many disciplines to educate new generations of global health leaders and produce powerful ideas that improve the lives and health of people everywhere. As a community of leading scientists, educators, and students, we work together to take innovative ideas from the laboratory to people's lives--not only making scientific breakthroughs, but also working to change individual behaviors, public policies, and health care practices. Each year, more than 400 faculty members at Harvard Chan School teach 1,000-plus full-time students from around the world and train thousands more through online and executive education courses. Founded in 1913 as the Harvard-MIT School of Health Officers, the School is recognized as America's oldest professional training program in public health. About UIC The University of Illinois at Chicago is a public research institute located in the heart of the Illinois Medical District. The Institute for Tuberculosis Research is located in the College of Pharmacy, which is ranked #7 in the U.S. with respect to grant funding. The Institute for Tuberculosis Research is dedicated to the discovery of new treatments for TB and other bacterial infections and provides bioassay support for many institutions worldwide while also leveraging the expertise of College of Pharmacy faculty in the areas of natural products chemistry and structural biology. In this CETR, the Institute's efforts rely upon key collaborations with Myongji University in South Korea and Princeton University. About John Hopkins Medicine Johns Hopkins Medicine (JHM), headquartered in Baltimore, Maryland, is an $8 billion integrated global health enterprise and one of the leading academic health care systems in the United States. JHM unites physicians and scientists of the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine with the organizations, health professionals and facilities of The Johns Hopkins Hospital and Health System. JHM's vision, "Together, we will deliver the promise of medicine," is supported by its mission to improve the health of the community and the world by setting the standard of excellence in medical education, research and clinical care. Diverse and inclusive, JHM educates medical students, scientists, health care professionals and the public; conducts biomedical research; and provides patient-centered medicine to prevent, diagnose and treat human illness. JHM operates six academic and community hospitals, four suburban health care and surgery centers, and 40 primary and specialty care outpatient sites under the umbrella of Johns Hopkins Community Physicians. JHM extends health care into the community and globally through Johns Hopkins Home Care Group, Johns Hopkins Medicine International and Johns Hopkins HealthCare. The Johns Hopkins Hospital, opened in 1889, has been consistently ranked among the best in the nation by U.S. News & World Report throughout the survey's 29-year history. For more information about Johns Hopkins Medicine; its research, education and clinical programs; and for the latest health, science and research news, visit http://www.hopkinsmedicine.org. Contact: TB Alliance Thomas Lynch 646.616.8639 Email: communications@tballiance.org (Boston) - A study led by physician researchers at Boston Medical Center has shown that first milk expression within eight hours of giving birth is associated with the highest probability of mothers of very low-birth-weight infants being able to provide milk throughout hospitalization in the neonatal intensive care unit. The study results, published in Obstetrics and Gynecology, help better inform perinatal providers and new mothers how to prioritize the many aspects of perinatal care after delivery of a very low-birth-weight infant. Mother's milk has many benefits for very low-birth-rate infants, including reduction of necrotizing enterocolitis, sepsis, and chronic lung disease, and improvement in later childhood development. However, mothers of very low-birth-rate infants often have challenges making milk. They are more likely to have complications during or after delivery and comorbid health conditions that affect milk production, such as diabetes. They are also more likely to be separated from their newborn for a prolonged period of time after birth. Because of these challenges, lactation support for mothers of very low-birth-weight infants is crucial. The World Health Organization's Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative suggested milk expression within six hours after birth as one strategy for support. However, evidence for this time period is limited. In addition, milk expression within six hours can be difficult due to the need for intensive monitoring of newborns and/or mothers. "Mothers who have recently delivered very low-birth-weight infants have a number of competing needs," says Margaret G. Parker, MD, MPH, a neonatologist at Boston Medical Center and the study's corresponding author. "Our data-driven approach to determining optimal time of first milk expression can help providers balance the need for safe maternal care with effective support to create long-term lactation success." The researchers used data from 1,157 mother-baby pairs in nine Massachusetts hospitals. The infants were all very low-birth-weight infants who spent time in the neonatal intensive care unit. They found 70 percent of infants whose mothers expressed first milk within eight hours of delivery were being fed any mother's milk at discharge or transfer, compared with 52 percent of infants whose mothers expressed first milk 9-24 hours after delivery. The authors note that given these results, randomized control trials are needed to further establish the causal relationship between timing of first milk expression and long-term lactation success among mothers of very low-birth-weight infants. ### This study was supported by the W. K. Kellogg Foundation. Parker is also an assistant professor of pediatrics at BU School of Medicine. The study was done in collaboration with investigators from Boston Children's Hospital, Baystate Children's Hospital, Brigham and Women's Hospital, and Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. About Boston Medical Center Boston Medical Center is a private, not-for-profit, 514-bed, academic medical center that is the primary teaching affiliate of Boston University School of Medicine. It is the largest and busiest provider of trauma and emergency services in New England. Boston Medical Center offers specialized care for complex health problems and is a leading research institution, receiving more than $116 million in sponsored research funding in fiscal year 2017. It is the 15th largest recipient of funding in the U.S. from the National Institutes of Health among independent hospitals. In 1997, BMC founded Boston Medical Center Health Plan, Inc., now one of the top ranked Medicaid MCOs in the country, as a non-profit managed care organization. Boston Medical Center and Boston University School of Medicine are partners in the Boston HealthNet - 14 community health centers focused on providing exceptional health care to residents of Boston. For more information, please visit http://www.bmc.org. When a child has cancer, what kind of information do parents seek out? Analyzing their online searches to obtain health-related information offers one window into their concerns, and provides insight into how healthcare providers may offer family education and support. Oncology researchers who investigated parents' online Google searches found that, among other things, parents frequently focus on ways to best support their child and on logistical issues, such as directions to medical centers and appropriate pharmacies. "There's been a lot of research into what people say they want to find online, but little is known about the specific, granular details that parents of cancer patients seek out," said study leader Charles A. Phillips, MD, a pediatric oncologist at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP). "To our knowledge, this is the first study of online Google searches by parents of children with cancer." Phillips and colleagues published a pilot study online today in Pediatric Blood and Cancer. The study team enrolled 21 parents (17 of them mothers) of children diagnosed with cancer at CHOP in the summer of 2017. The parents consented to share their Google search histories from the time of study enrollment during their child's cancer treatment to a retrospective time point, six months before the child was diagnosed. After enrollment, other members of the research team, who did not know the identities of patients or families, coded searches into categories and further analyzed the findings. As may have been expected, parents performed health-related searches at over twice the rate performed by the general population--13 percent versus 5 percent of total Google searches. Parents' Google use peaks at about one month after cancer diagnosis. Eighteen percent of health-related searches (about 1,900 out of 11,000) were cancer-specific, and over half of the cancer-specific searches were for cancer support, such as queries for cancer charities and inspirational quotations. Among the overall health-related searches, 31 percent were for "symptoms, disease and medical information," followed closely by 29 percent for "information about hospital/care sites/pharmacy." Phillips added that healthcare providers, administrators and web designers need to remember the importance of parents' day-to-day logistical concerns, such as traffic and parking directions, or locating pharmacies that carry pediatric formulations of the medicines prescribed for their child. Another notable finding, said Phillips, was the uptick in symptom searches in the months before a child was actually diagnosed. That accords with his own experience: "Every time I meet with parents for the first time after a diagnosis, they tell me, 'I knew that something wasn't right.'" Going forward, the study findings could inform family support and education, said Phillips. For example, hospitals might design educational interventions to help parents better navigate the internet for cancer information, and researchers could evaluate such interventions in a randomized trial. However, he cautioned against overgeneralizing from the current small, single-center study. Next steps in this field would require organizing larger studies, possibly covering a broader variety of cancers, or a larger range of online information sources. He suggested a future paired study to investigate how adolescent patients search for health information, compared to how their parents search. ### The National Institutes of Health provided funding for this study (grant HD060550). In addition to his CHOP position, Phillips and several co-authors are faculty members of the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania. Charles A. Phillips et al, "Health-related Google searches performed by parents of pediatric oncology patients," Pediatric Blood and Cancer, May 9, 2019. https://doi.org/10.1002/pbc.27795 Children's Hospital of Philadelphia: Children's Hospital of Philadelphia was founded in 1855 as the nation's first pediatric hospital. Through its long-standing commitment to providing exceptional patient care, training new generations of pediatric healthcare professionals, and pioneering major research initiatives, Children's Hospital has fostered many discoveries that have benefited children worldwide. Its pediatric research program is among the largest in the country. In addition, its unique family-centered care and public service programs have brought the 564-bed hospital recognition as a leading advocate for children and adolescents. For more information, visit http://www.chop.edu Researchers have developed a new technology that allows them to probe cell changes without disturbing the cell's physiology - a major advancement that helps scientists look more closely at cell changes to solve human health problems, according to a new paper in Cell Reports. This technology, known as deformation microscopy, allows scientists to more accurately assess the interplay between biological systems and the mechanical environment in treating musculoskeletal, cardiac and neural diseases. Colorado State University Professor Soham Ghosh served as the first author on the paper, along with several researchers from University of Colorado Boulder. Advancements in regenerative medicine and developmental-biology-inspired technology have the potential to target major human health obstacles. With the team's discovery, scientists can get a clearer understanding of how the physical changes in cells contribute to cell development - an area of study known as mechanobiology. Before joining CSU in fall 2018, Ghosh and his colleagues at CU Boulder developed the technology to non-invasively probe the mechanics of the biological system in high resolution using an image-based formula. The results were remarkable, unhindered images of the cell, and inside the cell nucleus, exposing the missing link between biological systems and the mechanical environment. By viewing and analyzing the cell and nucleus at high magnification, all the intricate structural architectures became visible. This helped researchers understand spatially detailed and dynamic cell deformation, which subsequently revealed how the subcellular and subnuclear regions behave in a normal physiological setting vs. a diseased setting. Mechanical probing in biology has been prevalent for almost two decades. Previous technologies were invasive, disturbing the physiology of the cell. Deformation microscopy produces a high-precision, microscopic image-based strain map which can quantify the affliction a cell and nucleus can sustain, revolutionizing what was previously known about mechanobiology. The paper was written by Ghosh, CU Professor Corey P. Neu, CU graduate student Benjamin Seelbinder and other contributors. "This technology can drive the field of mechanobiology at an unprecedented rate," Ghosh said. "The technique has proven powerful in several applications and is opening new avenues of research." Ghosh will leverage a variation of deformation microscopy and other methods to quantify biological phenomena in cells in his Cellular Engineering and Mechanobiology Lab, to investigate questions surrounding single cell changes in relation to stem cell function. Researchers can investigate, for example, why our individual tissues are functionally different despite having the same genetic code. His lab will study the interaction between the cell's immediate environment, epigenetics, and chromatin architectural organization of the cell nucleus. "Deformation microscopy will take the research in my lab to new heights, and I look forward to discoveries that will soon unfold due to this groundbreaking advancement," added Ghosh. ### Link to paper: https://col.st/KjmGp ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. -- Sandia National Laboratories and the University of New Mexico are joining forces to bolster national security and advance science and engineering with an agreement signed this week. "Once we have that umbrella in place, it opens the knowledge cache of both institutions -- our scientific researchers collaborating with UNM's -- so that we can better serve Albuquerque, the state and the nation," said Sandia business development specialist Jason Martinez. The umbrella Cooperative Research and Development Agreement, or CRADA, allows the labs and university to explore research collaborations among scientists, faculty and students in several areas, including ongoing projects. In contrast to a standard CRADA, which involves a single project in one technical area, an umbrella CRADA covers multiple projects and technologies. The CRADA with UNM will immediately launch two projects focusing on radiation testing and developing particle detector designs for the European particle physics laboratory CERN. "CRADA research like this fosters innovation and furthers the capabilities of both parties," said Sandia technology partnerships senior manager Mary Monson. "These partnerships allow Sandia to share our expertise for the U.S. public good and support the Labs' various missions." The CRADA will last five years and have the possibility of renewal. The agreement bolsters the collaboration the labs and UNM have had as part of the Sandia Academic Alliance Program, an initiative formed with five universities to promote collaborative research and attract top talent to work on these tough problems. "This CRADA facilitates ongoing relationships between UNM faculty and facilities with Sandia technical staff and facilities and will allow for expansion of these interactions," said Edl Schamiloglu, UNM's special assistant to the provost for laboratory relations. The agreement with UNM could serve as a model for other Academic Alliance partners, said Diane Peebles, Sandia's New Mexico partnership manager. Sandia's other Academic Alliance partners are the Georgia Institute of Technology, the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Purdue University and the University of Texas at Austin. Collaboration will advance science and national security The UNM umbrella CRADA has nine areas of collaboration: quantum information science; computational science and engineering; cybersecurity; data analytics, systems analysis and intelligence science; nuclear engineering and high-energy density science; advance materials and devices; energy and water; bioscience for national security; and emerging science and engineering capabilities for national security. "This continues our long-standing collaboration with UNM and is a big step forward in the partnership," Peebles said. "This allows Sandia to collaborate in an in-kind way with UNM faculty and students." For example, the CRADA will build on partnerships between Sandia and the university at the Center for Quantum Information and Control, co-located at UNM and the University of Arizona; at the Advanced Materials Laboratory, a research facility jointly operated by Sandia and UNM; and at the New Mexico EPSCoR SMART Grid Center, a project that includes Sandia, UNM and several other research institutions. Materials validated for Large Hadron Collider use In one of the first projects under the umbrella CRADA, Sandia will test and validate electronics and other materials UNM uses to develop advanced particle detector designs for the Atlas Detector on the Large Hadron Collider at CERN, headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland. Atlas has been used in several well-known physics investigations, from the search for the Higgs boson to dark matter particles. Electrical components and other materials need to withstand harsh radiation fields during experiments at the Large Hadron Collider, said Maryla Wasiolek, a Sandia nuclear engineer on the project. The collider is undergoing energy and luminosity upgrades that will expose particle detector components to higher levels of incident radiation. The UNM components will be tested at Sandia's Gamma Irradiation Facility and the Ion Beam Laboratory to predict their responses to the experimental conditions like those possible when the Large Hadron Collider restarts operations. The results will be shared with several programs requiring radiation-hardened detectors, electronics and materials. Data for criticality benchmark of teaching reactor Another project will allow Sandia to assist UNM researchers with characterizing fuel plates used to power the university's low-power teaching reactor, said Sandia engineer John Miller. The project, supported by the Department of Energy's Criticality Safety Program, will support the development of benchmarks for the Nuclear Energy Agency's International Handbook of Evaluated Criticality Safety Benchmark Experiments, which is used to validate nuclear data. Having those benchmarks, Miller said, will be beneficial for both institutions and the nuclear community. "In the world of nuclear criticality safety, we're always trying to ensure people handle material in a safe manner," Miller said. "We have the radiological protection people who can do the characterization, we have nuclear safety experts, and we have the measurement capabilities that UNM needs, while they have a reactor with uncommon fuel." Miller pointed out that the UNM teaching reactor is a low-power reactor used for teaching and research: "If it was working at full capacity, it could barely power an LED." LEDs are light-emitting diodes. Miller said there's a chance, that once the project and associated training are complete, UNM could also inherit surplus equipment from Sandia that would allow it to make additional measurements. That exchange of expertise, equipment and knowledge was a driving force for the agreement. "We want to have these interactions with UNM and other universities to meld complementary skills in the pursuit of science," he said. "We are excited to be working with UNM, bringing our expertise to help characterized their training reactor." ### Copper oxide (Cu2O) is a very promising candidate for future solar energy conversion: as a photocathode, the copper oxide (a semiconductor) might be able to use sunlight to electrolytically split water and thus generate hydrogen, a fuel that can chemically store the energy of sunlight. Copper oxide has a band gap of 2 electron volts, which matches up very well with the energy spectrum of sunlight. Perfect copper oxide crystals should theoretically be able to provide a voltage close to 1,5 volts when illuminated with light. The material would thus be perfect as the top-most absorber in a photoelectrochemical tandem cell for water splitting. A solar-to-hydrogen energy conversion efficiency of up to 18 per cent should be achievable. However, the actual values for the photovoltage lie considerably below that value, insufficient to make copper oxide an efficient photocathode in a tandem cell for water splitting. Up to now, loss processes near the surface or at boundary layers have been mainly held responsible for this. A team at the HZB Institute for Solar Fuels has now taken a closer look at these processes. The group received high-quality Cu2O single crystals from colleagues at the renowned California Institute of Technology (Caltech), then vapour-deposited an extremely thin, transparent layer of platinum on them. This platinum layer acts as a catalyst and increases the efficiency of water splitting. They examined these samples in the femtosecond laser laboratory (1 fs = 10-15 s) at the HZB to learn what processes lead to the loss of charge carriers and in particular whether these losses occur in the interior of the single crystals or at the interface with the platinum. A green laser pulse initially excited the electrons in the Cu2O; just fractions of a second later, a second laser pulse (UV light) measured the energy of the excited electron. The team was then able to identify the main mechanism of photovoltage losses through this time-resolved two-photon photon emission spectroscopy (tr-2PPE). "We observed that the excited electrons were very quickly bound in defect states that exist in large numbers in the band gap itself", reports first author Mario Borgwardt, who is now continuing his work as a Humboldt fellow at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory in the USA. The coordinator of the study, Dennis Friedrich, explains: "This happens on a time scale of less than one picosecond (1 ps = 10-12 s), i.e. extremely fast, especially compared to the time interval charge carriers need to diffuse from the interior of the crystalline material to the surface." "We have very powerful experimental methods at the femtosecond laser laboratory of the HZB for analysing energy and dynamics of photo-excited electrons in semiconductors. We were able to show for copper oxide that the losses hardly occur at the interfaces with platinum, but instead in the crystal itself", says Rainer Eichberger, initiator of the study and head of femtosecond spectroscopy lab. "These new insights are our first contribution to the UniSysCat Excellence Cluster at the Technische Universitat Berlin, in which we are a partner", emphasises Roel van de Krol, who heads the HZB Institute for Solar Fuels. UniSysCat focusses on catalytic processes that take place over very diverse time scales: while charge carriers react extremely quickly to excitations by light (femtoseconds to picoseconds), chemical processes such as (electro)catalysis require many orders of magnitude more time (milliseconds). An efficient photochemical conversion requires that both processes be optimised together. The current results that have now been published in the renowned journal Nature Communications are an important step in this direction. ### Infants born prematurely frequently develop a form of chronic lung disease known as Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia. Previously, this disease could only be diagnosed clinically and with a low degree of differentiation. Researchers at the Helmholtz Zentrum Munchen and the University Hospital of the Ludwig-Maximilians University - partner in the German Center for Lung Research (DZL) - have now successfully developed a new protocol for identifying neonatal patients with the disease by the use of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Their findings have now been published in Thorax. Between 15 and 30 percent of all preterm babies with a birth weight of less than 1000 grams or who are born before the 32nd week of pregnancy develop Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia1. Depending on disease severity, BPD can lead to lung dysfunction that continues into adulthood, and in some cases also leads to death. "Up until now it has only been possible to diagnose according to clinical criteria that only allow for a low degree of differentiation ," reports Dr. Anne Hilgendorff, head of the working group "Mechanisms of Neonatal Chronic Lung Disease" at the Institute of Lung Biology (ILBD) and the Comprehensive Pneumology Center (CPC) at the Helmholtz Zentrum Munchen and Director of the Center for Comprehensive Developmental Care (CDeCLMU) providing care for high-risk preterm and term neonates at Munich University Hospital (LMU). Dr. Hilgendorff: "Up to now there has been a lack of specific options for assessing structural changes in the lungs while avoiding the harmful effects of radiation, and this has made personalized treatment and follow-up monitoring more difficult." A new MRT protocol could now close this gap. Study involving 61 at-risk patients "With our team of scientists2 in closest collaboration with our clinical colleagues in the Perinatal Center at the LMU and the Department of Radiology we have evaluated the imaging studies of 61 neonates," reports Dr. Kai Forster, a physician-scientist in Dr. Hilgendorff's working group. All the infants involved in the study were born before the 32nd week of pregnancy. During the examination, which took place close to the date of birth, they were already able to breathe independently and underwent MRI scanning during spontaneous sleep. Statistical analysis of the MRI data performed by colleagues from the Institute for Computational Biology at the Helmholtz Zentrum revealed increased T2 and decreased T1 relaxation times3, indicating the presence of Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia. "Our results mark an important step towards improving image-based phenotyping of infants who are at risk or have developed the disease," comments Dr. Hilgendorff. "In future, individual treatment and monitoring strategies will thus be possible." It is important, she stresses, that large perinatal centers now use this method and evaluate it jointly aiming at identifying potential subtypes of Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia. ### Contact for the media: Abteilung Kommunikation, Helmholtz Zentrum Munchen - Deutsches Forschungszentrum fur Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH), Ingolstadter Landstr. 1, 85764 Neuherberg - Tel. +49 89 3187 2238 - E-Mail: presse@helmholtz-muenchen.de Scientific Contact: PD Dr. Anne Hilgendorff, Helmholtz Zentrum Munchen - Deutsches Forschungszentrum fur Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH), Institut fur Lungenbiologie & Comprehensive Pneumology Center, Max-Lebsche-Platz 31, 81377 Munchen - Tel. +49 89 3187 4675 - E-Mail: a.Hilgendorff@med.uni-muenchen.de Further information Original publication Forster K et al. (2019), Altered Relaxation Times in Magnetic Resonance Imaging Indicate Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia. Thorax. DOI: 10.1136/thoraxjnl-2018-212384 1 Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) is thought to be caused by various risk factors such as inflammatory processes, microtrauma resulting from ventilation therapy and toxicity induced by oxygen free radicals, which damage a baby's immature lung. In the long term, the tissue, which is important for pulmonary gas exchange, becomes damaged and scarred. 2 Scientists from the Institute of Computational Biology (Helmholtz Zentrum Munchen), the Department of Radiology (LMU Munich) and the Perinatal Center, Campus Grosshadern (LMU Munich) critically contributed to the study. 3 Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) works on the principle that hydrogen nuclei are comparable to small magnets. In a strong external magnetic field, they align either in parallel or anti-parallel to this field. When energy is applied in the form of radio frequency (RF) pulses, almost all of the hydrogen nuclei briefly align with the direction of the field. They then release this energy and lose their orientation. Two independent processes - t1 and t2 relaxation - describe this process. MRT does not involve the use of X-rays. As German Research Center for Environmental Health, Helmholtz Zentrum Munchen pursues the goal of developing personalized medical approaches for the prevention and therapy of major common diseases such as diabetes mellitus and lung diseases. To achieve this, it investigates the interaction of genetics, environmental factors and lifestyle. The Helmholtz Zentrum Munchen has about 2,300 staff members and is headquartered in Neuherberg in the north of Munich. Helmholtz Zentrum Munchen is a member of the Helmholtz Association, a community of 18 scientific-technical and medical-biological research centers with a total of about 37,000 staff members. http://www.helmholtz-muenchen.de The Comprehensive Pneumology Center (CPC) is a joint research project of the Helmholtz Zentrum Munchen, the Ludwig-Maximilians-Universitat Clinic Complex and the Asklepios Fachkliniken Munchen-Gauting. The CPC's objective is to conduct research on chronic lung diseases in order to develop new diagnosis and therapy strategies. The CPC maintains a focus on experimental pneumology with the investigation of cellular, molecular and immunological mechanisms involved in lung diseases. The CPC is a site of the Deutsches Zentrum fur Lungenforschung (DZL). http://www.helmholtz-muenchen.de/ilbd The German Center for Lung Research (DZL) pools German expertise in the field of pulmonology research and clinical pulmonology. The association's head office is in Giessen. The aim of the DZL is to find answers to open questions in research into lung diseases by adopting an innovative, integrated approach and thus to make a sizeable contribution to improving the prevention, diagnosis and individualized treatment of lung disease and to ensure optimum patient care. http://www.dzl.de/index.php/en Munich University Hospital (LMU) treats around 500,000 outpatients, inpatients and semi-residential patients each year at its Grohadern and City Centre Campuses. Just over 2,000 beds are available to its 29 specialist clinics, twelve institutes and six departments, and its 49 interdisciplinary centres. Of a total of 9,450 employees, around 1,600 are doctors and 3,200 are nursing staff. Munich University Hospital has been a public-law institution since 2006. Together with the Medical Faculty of Ludwig Maximilians University, Munich University Hospital is involved in four special research areas of the German Research Foundation (SFB 684, 914, 1054, 1123), three Transregios (TRR 127, 128, 152) belonging to Clinical Research Group 809, and two Graduate Colleges belonging to the German Research Foundation (GK 1091, 1202). This is in addition to the Center for Integrated Protein Sciences (CIPSM), Munich Center of Advanced Photonics (MAP), Nanosystems Initiative Munich (NIM) and Munich Cluster for Systems Neurology (SyNergy) - all institutes of excellence - and the Graduate School of Systemic Neurosciences (GSN-LMU), the Graduate School of Quantitative Biosciences Munich (QBM) and the Graduate School Life Science Munich (LSM). http://www.klinikum.uni-muenchen.de May 8, 2019, Gaithersburg, MD - The Institute for In Vitro Sciences, Inc. (IIVS) has received a grant from the European Partnership for Alternative Approaches to Animal Testing (EPAA) to support its annual training of Chinese scientists in non-animal testing methods. As part of the agreement, two scientists from BASF SE, a member of EPAA, will join IIVS to provide hands-on training in China for four non-animal approaches for skin sensitization. This training follows the recent announcement by China's National Medical Products Association (NMPA) of acceptance of one non-animal method for skin sensitization, DPRA, which will be included in the training. "We are proud to have the support of EPAA for our training program(s) which are designed to build proficiency and capacity in non-animal test methods in China," states Erin Hill, President of IIVS. "We approached BASF scientists to assist us, given their technical proficiency in the tests and experience in providing training. Their inclusion allows us to provide a comprehensive training of internationally validated test methods, as well as introducing a newly developed method, the Kinetic DPRA." IIVS' annual training is part of a Memorandum of Understanding between IIVS and China's National Institute for Food and Drug Control (NIFDC), a technical subordinate agency of the NMPA. IIVS and the NIFDC work together to assist Chinese scientists in becoming proficient in non-animal test methods to support China's movement toward accepting alternative tests for the regulation of cosmetics. Recently IIVS was appointed to the NIFDC's Alternatives Working Group. IIVS and EPAA have collaborated previously to produce full length training videos for non-animal test methods which have been translated into Chinese, Portuguese and Spanish. These videos are available free of charge at the EPAA website, YouTube, and also distributed at IIVS trainings. Similarly, BASF and IIVS have collaborated over the years to promote the development and standardization of in vitro test methods. Most recently the two organizations worked to officially import the LuSens cells into China where they will be maintained at the NIFDC and distributed to appropriate laboratories. The LuSens assay for skin sensitization will also be taught in the 2019 training course. ### About the Institute for In Vitro Sciences (IIVS) IIVS is a non-profit organization wholly dedicated to the promotion of non-animal test methods. Founded in 1997, IIVS is recognized as a leading provider of in vitro testing in support of toxicological safety evaluations. Rigorous scientific programs coupled with educational and outreach initiatives have established IIVS as a global leader in the advancement of alternatives to animal testing. For more information, visit us at http://www.iivs.org. Media Contact: Erin Hill President Phone: 301-947-1281 Ehill@iivs.org New type of drug shows promise in preclinical studies - with trials by an open science company expected to begin in the next two years Treatment could also work for 'stone man syndrome' - a rare genetic disease in which muscles and ligaments turn to bone A new type of drug that targets a genetic weakness in an untreatable childhood brain cancer could become the first ever treatment designed to target the disease. The prototype treatment could also offer hope for patients with the rare and devastating 'stone man syndrome' - in which muscles and ligaments turn to bone. Scientists at The Institute of Cancer Research, London, led research with an international team of colleagues, finding that the new drug class can kill brain cancer cells with mutations in the ACVR1 gene and shrink tumours in mice. Open science company M4K (Medicines for Kids) Pharma has taken on development of the ACVR1 inhibitor drugs - and clinical trials in children with brain cancer are expected to begin in 2021. There have been no new drugs licensed to treat brain cancer in adults or children for 20 years. The new type of drug targets the protein molecule produced by mutated versions of the ACVR1 gene found in the deadly childhood brain cancer 'diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma' (DIPG). Curiously, ACVR1 mutations don't exist in any other type of cancer, but they are the cause of the inherited disease, stone man syndrome, where damaged muscle remodels as bone as it heals. The study is published in the journal Communications Biology today (Thursday) and funded by Abbie's Army, Children with Cancer UK, Cancer Research UK and the DIPG collaborative. There are currently no life-extending treatments other than radiotherapy for DIPG tumours and this is never curative, with children expecting to live only nine to 12 months after diagnosis. Because they occur in the brainstem or 'pons' area of the brain, DIPG tumours can't be removed by surgery, and chemotherapy simply doesn't work. In 2014, scientists at The Institute of Cancer Research (ICR) discovered that ACVR1 mutations occur in a quarter of DIPG tumours and have been working on drugs that target it ever since. Following this discovery, teams at the Structural Genomics Consortium in Oxford and the ICR created a new series of molecules that target mutant forms of ACVR1. In the new study, the ICR-led team tested 11 prototype drugs with anti-ACVR1 activity - including some from the Structural Genomics Consortium, as well as other drugs previously investigated for stone man syndrome - on brain cancer cells grown in the lab. They found that two of the prototypes from the new series were particularly good at blocking signals sent out by ACVR1 and killing ACVR1-mutant cells, while having very little effect on healthy brain cells. The researchers transplanted human DIPG tumours into mice and found the potential new drugs stopped ACVR1 activity, shrunk tumours and extended survival by 25 per cent (from 67 to 82 days). Looking at cells in the lab, the new study shows that ACVR1-mutant cells respond inappropriately to a molecule called activin A - which is present in high levels during brain development - sparking a cascade of events that trigger tumour growth. A similar situation is thought to occur in stone man syndrome, with high levels of activin A occuring during inflammation in muscles and inappropriately triggering the formation of bone tissue in people born with ACVR1 mutations. The drugs have now been taken on as the first project of a new open science company called M4K Pharma, which aims to discover and develop affordable drugs for childhood diseases that are rare, where there is less market incentive and that aren't well served by current business models. Professor Chris Jones, Professor of Paediatric Brain Tumour Biology at The Institute of Cancer Research, London, said: "It's simply not good enough that we can cure some cancers, but in others we have seen no progress in decades. We owe it to children and their families to do better. "DIPG is a relatively rare childhood brain cancer, but it is always deadly. Learning more about the biology of DIPG, and trying to find ways to translate that knowledge into new treatments, has been a passion of mine for years. My lab discovered that mutations in the ACVR1 gene occur in a quarter of DIPG cancers and it's incredibly exciting to see this now lead to potential new drugs for the disease. I can't wait to see how they perform in patients." Professor Paul Workman, Chief Executive of The Institute of Cancer Research, London, said: "This is an important study which perfectly illustrates how gaining a detailed understanding of the biology of cancers can allow us to move very quickly to the discovery of new treatments -- in this case to a devastating rare type of children's brain cancer. "I'm proud that the ICR is working in an academic-industry partnership with the biotech company M4K Pharma to take a drugs forward to the clinic. Where the patient population is very small, it can be difficult to get companies to take such drugs on. And even where this does happen the result is often a very expensive drug that the NHS struggles to afford. One important solution, as shown here, is for academic researchers to take a leading role in working closely with companies to create genuinely innovative treatments at an acceptable price. "I hope that a new drug from this research can be taken to the clinic as quickly as possible to help children with DIPG tumours, and of course it would also be excellent to see patients with stone man syndrome benefit from the treatment as well." Amanda and Ray Mifsud lost their six-year old daughter Abbie to DIPG brain cancer in 2011. Together they set up Abbie's Army in November 2012 so that one day parents of children diagnosed with DIPG will not be told that there is no cure and no hope, as they were. Amanda said: "We're so pleased to see some of the pre-clinical research work that 'Abbie's Army' has supported in the Jones lab with ACVR1 heading towards a biologically relevant treatment. Our hope very much is that further translation and combination studies will provide a successful therapy for this sub-set of DIPG patients in the near future." ### For more information please contact Claire Hastings in the ICR press office on 020 7153 5380 or claire.hastings@icr.ac.uk. For enquiries out of hours, please call 07595 963 613. Notes to editors The Institute of Cancer Research, London, is one of the world's most influential cancer research organisations. Scientists and clinicians at The Institute of Cancer Research (ICR) are working every day to make a real impact on cancer patients' lives. Through its unique partnership with The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust and 'bench-to-bedside' approach, the ICR is able to create and deliver results in a way that other institutions cannot. Together the two organisations are rated in the top four centres for cancer research and treatment globally. The ICR has an outstanding record of achievement dating back more than 100 years. It provided the first convincing evidence that DNA damage is the basic cause of cancer, laying the foundation for the now universally accepted idea that cancer is a genetic disease. Today it is a world leader at identifying cancer-related genes and discovering new targeted drugs for personalised cancer treatment. A college of the University of London, the ICR is the UK's top-ranked academic institution for research quality, and provides postgraduate higher education of international distinction. It has charitable status and relies on support from partner organisations, charities and the general public. The ICR's mission is to make the discoveries that defeat cancer. For more information visit http://www.icr.ac.uk About M4K Pharma: M4K Pharma is a company dedicated to finding affordable new medicines for children's orphan diseases. Through its Medicines4Kids program, M4K is developing a treatment for diffuse intrinsic pontine gliomas (DIPG), a rare and fatal pediatric brain cancer with no curative therapies. M4K partners with academics, foundations and industry groups for its drug discovery and drug development programs and uses open science principles of data sharing to encourage research collaborations and reduce costs. M4K is based out of Toronto, Canada. For more info: http://www.m4kpharma.com The segregation of yolk from the surrounding cytoplasm in the very early fish embryo is a key process for the development of the fish larva. To identify its underlying mechanisms, biologists at the Institute of Science and Technology Austria (IST Austria) teamed up with their colleagues from theoretical physics. The discovery: Actin dynamics in the bulk of the cell drive phase segregation in zebrafish oocytes. A single-cell fish egg evolves into a multi-cell embryo in less than two hours after fertilization. Within these two hours, the cytoplasm, which will later form the animal body, must separate completely from the yolk, which the larva is going to feed on. Previously, cell biologists had proposed that local expansion of the cell surface at one pole of the egg mediates this segregation. However, direct evidence supporting this model was lacking. Joined forces: lab experiments and physical theory To understand the physical basis of this segregation process, Shayan Shamipour, PhD student in the research group of developmental biologist Carl-Philipp Heisenberg, teamed up with the research group of theoretical physicist Edouard Hannezo. Based on the combined expertise of these two groups, the authors, also including a third professor of IST Austria, Bjorn Hof, reveal that the forces exerted at the cell surface are dispensable for this process--as opposed to previous models. Instead, they discovered that combined pulling and pushing forces within the embryo facilitate the segregation of cytoplasm from the yolk granules. Importantly, the theory developed to describe this process can be applied to any segregation due to the forces exerted from an active fluid and could thus also be used to examine potential similar processes in mammalian/human embryos. Size matters But how are these concerted pulling and pushing movements generated? In the bulk of the cell, far away from the cell surface, filaments of actin and myosin--proteins also involved in muscle cell contraction--form a dense mesh. Polymerization and contraction of this mesh trigger actin flows towards the animal pole of the egg, the hemisphere that is going to differentiate into the later embryo. Via passive frictional forces, these actin flows drag along cytoplasm. The bigger yolk granules, in contrast, are not dragged along by actin since their friction with actin is much lower. Instead, they are actively pushed, or rather squeezed, towards the opposite vegetal pole of the egg by comet-like actin structures--particular actin structures whose function had not been reported in developmental processes before. The combination of these pulling and pushing forces ensures a robust segregation of the cytoplasm and yolk granules within the developing embryo. Bringing darkness into the light By examining deeper parts of the cell more closely, the multi-disciplinary team has revealed that animal pole expansion at the cell surface, as previously proposed, is not essential for the yolk-cytoplasm segregation. "The actin structures at the cell surface appear very bright and are therefore quite easy to study. Maybe that's why scientists have so far simply missed to look more deeply into the much darker bulk area, which makes up most of the cell," says Shayan Shamipour, lead author of the study. Refined image processing allowed the IST Austria researchers to take a closer look at the developments in fish eggs during the moments right after fertilization. But, as Shamipour adds, another key to success was something else: "To catch the very first moments of egg development, we had to be really fast: Whenever one of our fish had started to release its eggs into the water, I would press start on my stop watch and my colleagues would see me sprint from the fish facility to the microscopy room to observe and record the process." Curiosity-driven teamwork at its best According to the cell biologist with a background in physics, Shamipour had been suspicious of the prevailing surface-based explanation for a while: "The embryo follows a big goal: It has to divide from one into thousands of cells in a very short amount of time. It was thus evident that the proposed surface mechanism alone could not accomplish this segregation and that the embryo would have to come up with some other mechanisms to accelerate the process." It is this curiosity-driven attitude of the young scientist paired with the interdisciplinary research culture of the Heisenberg and Hannezo groups--a mode of scientific work IST Austria particularly fosters--that enabled Shamipour to identify and analyze central cell processes that could be relevant in many other settings and organisms. ### This project has received funding from the European Union (European Research Council Advanced Grant) and from the Austrian Science Fund (FWF). IST Austria The Institute of Science and Technology (IST Austria) is a PhD-granting research institution located in Klosterneuburg, 18 km from the center of Vienna, Austria. Inaugurated in 2009, the Institute is dedicated to basic research in the natural and mathematical sciences. IST Austria employs professors on a tenure-track system, postdoctoral fellows, and doctoral students. While dedicated to the principle of curiosity-driven research, the Institute owns the rights to all scientific discoveries and is committed to promote their use. The first president of IST Austria is Thomas A. Henzinger, a leading computer scientist and former professor at the University of California in Berkeley, USA, and the EPFL in Lausanne, Switzerland. The graduate school of IST Austria offers fully-funded PhD positions to highly qualified candidates with a bachelor's or master's degree in biology, neuroscience, mathematics, computer science, physics, and related areas. http://www.ist.ac.at Animal welfare Understanding cell biological processes is only possible by studying real cells, in this case of zebrafish. No other methods can serve as alternatives. The animals were raised, kept and treated according to the strict regulations of Austrian law. To build the neocortex, a brain area involved in higher cognitive functions, stem cells produce billions of neurons of various types. In a Science study, neuroscientists from Switzerland, Belgium, and the Institute of Science and Technology Austria (IST Austria) have now shown that, over time, the neocortical stem cells go through various maturation states, each of them leading to a distinct neuron type. Production of the correct neuron type is bound to a specific protein complex. With its deep grooves and ridges, the neocortex has coined our notion of the human brain. Only a few millimeters thick, this outer cerebral layer contains way over 15 billion neurons and processes information in order for us to consciously experience and perceive the world. Obviously, if anything goes wrong during neocortex development in the embryo, serious malfunctions associated with neurodevelopmental and psychiatric disorders including autism or schizophrenia may occur. However, how the cerebral cortex is built from neural stem cells during development is not fully understood. Together with the IST Austria research group of Professor Simon Hippenmeyer, researchers around Denis Jabaudon from the University of Geneva, Switzerland, and Laurent Nguyen from the University of Liege, Belgium, have now made a major step towards understanding how cortical stem cells manage to generate the huge number of neurons of various type and function that make up for adult neuronal diversity. Time as an essential aspect of neuron identity The new study presents evidence that developing neural stem cells are equipped with specific gene expression (transcriptional) programs at different points in time. While the stem cells progress sequentially through distinct stages, they pass these transcriptional "fingerprints" on to their daughter cells, i.e., the neurons they produce. Strikingly, the stem cells appear to have different properties and gene expression at different stages during neocortical development: At early stages, stem cells tend to be equipped with programs regulating primarily internal cellular processes such as cell-cycle control. In contrast, during later stages, stem cells hold gene expression programs that increasingly require external signals and thus environmental interaction. A protein complex bearing great responsibility The researchers suspected that specific regulatory proteins could be involved in the control of the time-dependent activation of distinct gene expression programs. They identified a protein complex, the so-called Polycomb Repressive Complex 2 (PRC2) to be highly expressed only in early-stage stem cells, but not in late-stage ones. The question, whether PRC2 does indeed regulate temporal maturation of stem cells could only be answered in a collaboration of the Swiss and researchers with Simon Hippenmeyer and postdoc Nicole Amberg from IST Austria. By using mouse genetic approaches the IST Austria researchers succeeded in eliminating all PRC2 activity in cortical stem cells during development, i.e., at the time when distinct neuron types are being produced--and the results proved their hypothesis right. Protein malfunction with dramatic consequences The PRC2 inactivation had drastic consequences in a way that stem cells were unable to follow their normal path of maturation. In the absence of PRC2, stem cells seemed to mature too fast and thus produced wrong types of neurons during false time windows. Even more dramatic, the overall number of neurons produced was also drastically reduced. This resulted in a small cortex, also known as microcephaly, with an incorrect neuronal cell type composition. Nicole Amberg, who was recently awarded an FWF Hertha-Firnberg Fellowship: "The results illustrate how sensitive brain development is. We now have a clearer picture of how neural stem cells produce the right type and number of neurons during cortical development, which could help to better understand the underlying mechanisms of human brain malformation and neurodevelopmental disorders in general." ### About IST Austria The Institute of Science and Technology (IST Austria) is a PhD-granting research institution located in Klosterneuburg, 18 km from the center of Vienna, Austria. Inaugurated in 2009, the Institute is dedicated to basic research in the natural and mathematical sciences. IST Austria employs professors on a tenure-track system, postdoctoral fellows, and doctoral students. While dedicated to the principle of curiosity-driven research, the Institute owns the rights to all scientific discoveries and is committed to promote their use. The first president of IST Austria is Thomas A. Henzinger, a leading computer scientist and former professor at the University of California in Berkeley, USA, and the EPFL in Lausanne, Switzerland. The graduate school of IST Austria offers fully-funded PhD positions to highly qualified candidates with a bachelor's or master's degree in biology, neuroscience, mathematics, computer science, physics, and related areas. http://www.ist.ac.at Animal welfare Understanding the development of the neocortex is only possible by studying the brains of animals. Currently, no other methods are available to serve as alternatives. In this study, mice were used as model organisms. The animals were raised, kept and treated according to the strict regulations of Austrian law. Funding information The research work at IST Austria for this study was supported by IST Austria institutional funds and the European Research Council (ERC) under the European Union's Horizon 2020 Research and Innovation Program (grant agreement No 725780 LinPro). Nicole Amberg is further supported by the FWF Hertha Firnberg Program (grant No T 1031-BBL). Largest-ever study of Nipah virus transmission concludes that older male patients and patients with respiratory problems are more likely to transmit infection to other people The deadly Nipah virus, which is carried by bats and occasionally infects people, is more likely to be transmitted from person to person when the infected patient is older, male and/or has breathing difficulties, according to a study co-led by scientists at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. The study, published May 9 in the New England Journal of Medicine, is, to date, the most comprehensive evaluation of person-to-person transmission during Nipah virus outbreaks. These outbreaks, all in Asia, have been relatively small to date, but the fatality rates at the outbreak level have been very high, ranging from 40 to 100 percent. Epidemiologists fear that Nipah virus, a distant cousin of the measles virus, could mutate to become much more infectious among humans and cause a catastrophic pandemic. The findings suggest that reducing exposure to respiratory secretions from infected patients should be a priority in future outbreak responses. "As health systems evolve and patients get more hands-on care from clinical staff and undergo more invasive procedures in places where Nipah virus outbreaks occur, there may be opportunities for wider transmission in hospitals," says study co-senior author Emily Gurley, PhD, associate scientist in the Department of Epidemiology at the Bloomberg School. "By understanding the factors that influence transmission, we can reduce our future vulnerability to this dangerous pathogen." Nipah virus was first identified in 1999 following an outbreak in Malaysia that led to the deaths of more than 100 people in a pig-farming region and the culling of more than a million pigs from local farms. Nipah virus' principal animal hosts are fruit bats that are found widely throughout much of the globe--from Australia, across tropical Asia and through to the east coast of Africa. But the virus sometimes spreads to pigs and other animals, as well as humans. Gurley was the senior author on a 2016 study that found bat-contaminated date palm sap was the most common source of human outbreaks in Bangladesh. Nipah infection in humans causes fever and encephalitis, or brain inflammation, often with seizures and coma. Some patients also develop a pneumonia-like respiratory illness. In Bangladesh, where public health surveillance of Nipah virus outbreaks is more extensive than anywhere else, the case fatality rate is about 75 percent. For the study, the research team, using datasets collected during routine surveillance and outbreak investigations in Bangladesh, analyzed all 248 cases of Nipah virus infection that were investigated in Bangladesh from April 2001 to April 2014. The 248 cases represented about 40 percent of the total Nipah virus cases reported in the medical literature. The aim was to identify factors associated with transmission of Nipah virus from one person to another. The team concluded that only 82 of the 248 cases were likely to have been caused by transmission from another infected person; the rest were believed to involve animal-to-human transmission. The scientists sorted the 82 person-to-person cases into 17 "transmission trees" originating from animal-to-person cases. The largest of these mini-outbreaks included 32 cases. The vast majority (86 percent) of the 82 person-to-person transmissions were believed to have originated from just 12 patients. The researchers' analysis linked a few key factors to increased risk of person-to-person transmission of Nipah virus. One was gender: Male patients infected about eight times as many people as did female patients. Another was age: almost all the transmission events originated from patients older than 45 years. All of the "super-spreader" patients were older males. The presence of respiratory illness was yet another risk factor: Virtually all the person-to-person transmissions came from infected patients who had breathing problems, which is consistent with the idea that the virus can travel in saliva and respiratory secretions, such as those expelled by coughing. Finally, transmission appeared to occur during the acute, symptomatic phase of the illness, and the severity of illness was another factor in transmission risk. "All the patients who infected others were patients who later died of their own infection," Gurley says. Why men appear to be better transmitters of Nipah infection isn't yet clear. "We thought that they might have more contacts, compared to women, but surprisingly we found that the average number of contacts didn't really differ between Nipah patients who spread the disease and Nipah patients who didn't," Gurley says. The team recommends that public health measures to prevent major Nipah virus outbreaks should focus on contacts of infected patients, and should include measures to limit exposures--among personal contacts and health care workers--to saliva and respiratory secretions from patients. ### The study was co-led by Gurley, with colleagues at the International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Bangladesh (icddr,b) and the Bangladesh government's Institute of Epidemiology, Disease Control and Research, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Simon Cauchemez, PhD, from Institut Pasteur in France, co-led the analysis. "Transmission of Nipah Virus--14 Years of Investigations in Bangladesh" was written by Birgit Nikolay, Henrik Salje, M. Jahangir Hossain, A.K.M. Dawlat Khan, Hossain M.S. Sazzad, Mahmudur Rahman, Peter Daszak, Ute Stroher, Juliet R.C. Pulliam, A. Marm Kilpatrick, Stuart T. Nichol, John D. Klena, Sharmin Sultana, Sayma Afroj, Stephen P. Luby, Simon Cauchemez, and Emily S. Gurley. Support for the research was provided by the National Institutes of Health (2R01-TW005869); the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; the National Institute of General Medical Sciences; the AXA Research Fund; the European Union; Institut Pasteur; and the governments of Bangladesh, Canada, Sweden, and the United Kingdom. A country's progress towards measles elimination can be mapped on a "canonical path" that in turn can guide vaccination strategies, according to a study from scientists at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. The researchers found that the trajectory countries follow to eliminating measles is driven by their birth rate and vaccination coverage. Adoption of the new canonical path concept, described in a paper that will be published May 9 in Science, could help countries tailor measles control efforts as they progress towards measles elimination, in general, and also as a response to outbreaks. Childhood measles vaccinations have been standard in many countries since the 1960s, and measles was thought to have been eliminated in several countries, including, as of 2000, the U.S. At the same time, measles still infects several million people globally, mostly children, killing an estimated 100,000 every year. Recent outbreaks in the U.S. and across the globe are making 2019 one of the worst year for measles in decades. The researchers call this path 'canonical' because it is the expected outcome of the fundamental theory that governs epidemic dynamics for measles. "When we completed the initial analysis for this paper using data up until 2014, the story was very clear: Countries were progressing towards elimination along the canonical path then staying there," says study senior author Justin Lessler, associate professor in the Department of Epidemiology at the Bloomberg School. "Unfortunately, when we added more recent data, the story got more complicated as many countries, particularly in the Americas, began to move backward along the path, the result of inadequate vaccination fueled in part by social unrest and vaccine refusal in various countries." The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has estimated that measles vaccinations prevented more than 20 million deaths worldwide between 2000-2017. Even as late as 2000, there were still as many as 28 million measles cases globally with more than 500,000 associated deaths. In recent years, there have been measles outbreaks with thousands of reported cases even in wealthy countries such as Germany, Italy and Spain. Some less-wealthy countries including India, the Philippines, Ethiopia and Nigeria still at times report tens of thousands of cases each year. "There has been generally a reliance on crude and qualitative frameworks for ranking countries in their progress to elimination and determining vaccination strategies," says study co-first author Amy Winter, MPH, PhD, a postdoctoral researcher in the Department of Epidemiology at the Bloomberg School. "We wanted to improve this framework using readily available data and simple calculations to summarize the complex dynamics as countries move to measles elimination." The canonical path described by Winter, Lessler and their colleagues reflects the fact that a country's annual number of measles cases per capita, a measure called the incidence, declines as the number of measles-susceptible people declines. The decline in the number of susceptible children occurs due to increased vaccination and/or drops in the birth rate. The path also reflects the observation that, as measles incidence declines, it initially becomes more variable from year to year--as susceptible hosts become fewer and farther apart on average, and outbreaks become more sporadic and unpredictable. These more sporadic outbreaks change the nature of who gets infected, changing the disease from one of only children to one that can strike adults as well. This age shift has been obvious in recent outbreaks in the U.S. and elsewhere. "Eventually you reach a point on the path where you really do appear to have measles under control and are moving towards elimination, and at that point the variability of the incidence starts to decrease too," Lessler says. A country's position on this path implies other important information, such as the age distribution of the people who are susceptible to measles. As outbreaks become more sporadic, unvaccinated people can get older before they are infected. This can lead to challenges rarely seen in "endemic" settings where everyone gets infected in childhood, such as infections in pregnant women. "Zambia, for example, went from having consistently widespread measles infections among young children to having almost no measles for a while, and then started having sporadic, occasionally large outbreaks in older children," Lessler says. "In cases like that, the age range you target with vaccination campaigns has to go up." After introducing measles vaccines, countries generally tend to move along the path in one direction, towards measles elimination. But if vaccination coverage is reduced, they can turn around and start moving in the opposite direction. For infectious disease epidemiologists, one of the big stories in the past few years has been the jump in measles cases in middle-income countries such as Brazil and Ukraine, due in part to many parents' refusal to vaccinate their children. "Since 2014 a number of countries have started moving backwards--they are seeing sporadic, large outbreaks." Lessler says. "The worry is that as vaccination rates decline, that backwards progression will continue." ### Winter, Lessler and their colleagues have developed a web application to show where countries lie on the path to measles elimination: http://iddynamics.jhsph.edu/apps/shiny/measlescanonicalpath/ "Measles and the Canonical Path to Elimination" was written by Matthew Graham, Amy Winter, Matthew Ferrari, Bryan Grenfell, William Moss, Andrew Azman, C. Jessica Metcalf and Justin Lessler. Support for the research was provided by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation (OPP1094793, OPP1091919) and the CDC. The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), part of the National Institutes of Health, today announced awards to establish four Cooperative Research Centers (CRCs) focused on developing vaccines to prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs). The grants, totaling $41.6 million over five years, will support collaborative, multidisciplinary research on the bacteria that cause syphilis, gonorrhea and chlamydia. At the end of the program, each center is expected to identify at least one candidate vaccine ready for testing in clinical trials. "STI research has recently evolved rapidly on multiple fronts, and this new knowledge can now be applied to a critical remaining challenge--the development of safe and effective vaccines for diseases that pose significant and growing public health burdens," said NIAID Director Anthony S. Fauci, M.D. "At this time, no vaccines are available to prevent syphilis, gonorrhea or chlamydia. However, research at these new centers should help fill the pipeline with several vaccine candidates that have feasible pathways to licensure in the U.S." The centers funded through this new program all involve multiple U.S. research institutions as well as international collaborators. Each center will conduct at least three research projects organized on a common theme. The centers will be supported by scientific cores that will supply shared research services including monoclonal antibody production, microbiology laboratory services and statistical expertise. One center, based at the UConn Health School of Medicine, will receive up to $11 million over five years to study syphilis. This center will be headed by UConn Health School of Medicine Professor Justin Radolf, M.D., and Duke University Associate Professor Michael Anthony Moody, M.D. Syphilis is the second leading cause of miscarriage and stillbirth worldwide. Left untreated, syphilis infection can lead to stroke, dementia or other neurological impairments. In 2017, 30,644 cases of early syphilis were reported in the United States, an increase of 76 percent since 2013, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Congenital syphilis, or infections passed from mother-to-baby during pregnancy or delivery, have also surged in recent years. The study team will build on earlier findings using structural biology approaches to investigate surface-exposed proteins within the outer membrane of Treponema pallidum, the bacterium that causes syphilis, which they believe could serve as targets for a vaccine. Two of the centers are focused on gonorrhea, an STI caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae. More than half a million gonorrhea diagnoses were reported in the United States in 2017, an increase of 67 percent from 2013, according to the CDC. Especially concerning is the fact that the bacteria that cause gonorrhea have become resistant to most antibiotics. In recent years, the CDC reported that ceftriaxone is the only remaining highly effective antibiotic left to treat gonorrhea in the United States. In women, undiagnosed or untreated gonorrhea can lead to endometritis, pelvic inflammatory disease and infertility. Babies born to infected mothers are at increased risk of blindness. Ann Jerse, Ph.D., of the Uniformed Services University of Health Sciences, is the principal investigator for the Gonorrhea Vaccine Cooperative Research Center (GV CRC), which will receive up to $10.7 million over five years. Four research projects in the GV CRC will study immune signals that may provide evidence that candidate gonorrhea vaccine has induced immunity. Among other projects, the team will assess samples from people and mice previously vaccinated with a candidate vaccine, 4CMenB, for which there is evidence of protection against gonorrhea. A center based at Georgia State University and headed by Cynthia Cornelissen, Ph.D., will receive up to $9.25 million over five years. Projects at this center will focus on interfering with bacterial nutrient transport as a protective strategy against gonococcal bacteria. They plan to develop vaccine candidates that target bacterial systems needed to acquire iron and zinc, thus starving the bacteria of required nutrients. One project will model the effectiveness of possible gonococcal vaccine formulations using protein antigen diversity information, antibiotic resistance prevalence and community acceptance data. A fourth center, based at the University of North Carolina (UNC) at Chapel Hill and led by Toni Darville, M.D., of the UNC School of Medicine, will receive up to $10.7 million over five years to advance chlamydia vaccine research. Chlamydia trachomatis is the most common sexually transmitted bacterial pathogen in the world. CDC estimates that at least 1.7 million cases of chlamydia were diagnosed in the United States in 2017, 45 percent of which were in women aged 15 to 24 years. Most infections are asymptomatic, but untreated chlamydia infections in women can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease or infertility and have been linked to ovarian cancer. Projects planned by the UNC-Chlamydia Vaccine Initiative Cooperative Research Center include one that will follow a group of women at high risk of chlamydia re-infection for a year after antibiotic treatment to better understand immune responses to the infection. A subsequent project will use information gathered from studying women's immune system responses to chlamydia infection as a guide for developing candidate vaccines with the capacity to elicit robust T cell responses, which are believed to be essential in protecting against infection with chlamydia. ### Additional details about the new CRCs are available at the links below. NIAID expects to make two additional awards in this program later this year. 1 U19 AI144177-01 Awardee Organization: University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, Connecticut Principal Investigator: Justin Radolf, M.D. Focus: Syphilis 1 U19 AI144180-01 Awardee Organization: Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Bethesda, Maryland Principal Investigator: Ann Jerse, Ph.D. Focus: Gonorrhea 1 U19 AI144182-01 Awardee Organization: Georgia State University, Atlanta, Georgia Principal Investigator: Cynthia Nau Cornelissen, Ph.D. Focus: Gonorrhea 1 U19 AI144181-01 Awardee Organization: University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina Principal Investigator: Toni Darville, M.D. Focus: Chlamydia NIAID conducts and supports research--at NIH, throughout the United States, and worldwide--to study the causes of infectious and immune-mediated diseases, and to develop better means of preventing, diagnosing and treating these illnesses. News releases, fact sheets and other NIAID-related materials are available on the NIAID website. About the National Institutes of Health (NIH): NIH, the nation's medical research agency, includes 27 Institutes and Centers and is a component of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. NIH is the primary federal agency conducting and supporting basic, clinical, and translational medical research, and is investigating the causes, treatments, and cures for both common and rare diseases. For more information about NIH and its programs, visit http://www.nih.gov. NIH...Turning Discovery Into Health An investigation on the International Space Station examines DNA damage and repair in space in order to help protect the long-term health of space travelers. Earth's atmosphere shields life on the ground from cosmic radiation that can damage DNA. Astronauts in space have no such protection, and that puts them at risk. An investigation on the International Space Station examines DNA damage and repair in space in order to help protect the long-term health of space travelers. An organism carries all of its genetic information in its deoxyribonucleic acid or DNA. This blueprint for life takes the form of specific sequences of nitrogen bases: adenine, cytosine, guanine, and thymine, represented by the letters A, C, G and T. One type of DNA damage is double strand breaks, essentially a cut across both strands of DNA. Cells repair these breaks almost immediately, but can make errors, inserting or deleting DNA bases and creating mutations. These mutations may result in diseases such as cancer. Genes in Space-6 looks at the specific mechanism cells use to repair double strand breaks in space. The investigation takes cells of the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae to the space station, where astronauts cause a specific type of damage to its DNA using a genome editing tool known as CRISPR-Cas9. The astronauts allow the cells to repair this damage, then make many copies of the repaired section using a process called polymerase chain reaction (PCR) with an onboard device, the miniPCR. Another device, MinION, is then used to sequence the repaired section of DNA in those copies. Sequencing shows the exact order of the bases, revealing whether the repair restored the DNA to its original order or made errors. The investigation represents a number of firsts, including the first use of CRISPR-Cas9 genetic editing on the space station and the first time scientists evaluate the entire damage and repair process in space. "The damage actually happens on the space station and the analysis also happens in space," said one of the investigators from miniPCR Bio, Emily Gleason. "We want to understand if DNA repair methods are different in space than on Earth." This investigation is part of the Genes in Space program. Founded by miniPCR and Boeing, the program challenges students to come up with DNA experiments in space that involve using the PCR technique and the miniPCR device on the station. Students submit ideas online, and the program chooses five finalists. These finalists are paired with a mentor scientist who helps them turn their idea into a presentation for the ISS Research and Development Conference. A panel of judges selects one proposed experiment to fly to the space station. "We want to inspire students to think like scientists and give them the opportunity for an authentic science experience that doesn't cost them anything," says Gleason. More than 550 student teams submitted ideas last year. The Genes in Space-6 investigation student team includes Michelle Sung, Rebecca Li, and Aarthi Vijayakumar at Mounds View High School in Arden Hills, Minnesota, and David Li, now a freshman at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Their mentor is Kutay Deniz Atabay at MIT. Other investigators include Sarah E. Stahl and Sarah Wallace with NASA's Johnson Space Center Microbiology group in Houston; G. Guy Bushkin, Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research, Cambridge; Melissa L. Boyer, Teresa K. Tan, Kevin D. Foley, and D. Scott Copeland at Boeing; and Ezequiel Alvarez Saavedra, Gleason, and Sebastian Kraves at Amplyus LLC, in Cambridge. Amplyus is the parent company of miniPCR Bio. "One thing the investigation will tell us is yes, we can do these things in space," said Gleason. "We expect to see the yeast use the error-free method of repair more frequently, which is what we see on Earth; but we don't know for sure whether it will be the same or not. Ultimately, we can use this knowledge to help protect astronauts from DNA damage caused by cosmic radiation on long voyages and to enable genome editing in space." The procedures used in this investigation may have applications for protecting people from radiation and other hazards in remote and harsh locations on Earth as well. ### NASA's Spitzer Space Telescope has revealed that some of the Universe's earliest galaxies were brighter than expected. The excess light is a by-product of the galaxies releasing incredibly high amounts of ionising radiation. The finding offers clues to the cause of the Epoch of Reionisation, a major cosmic event that transformed the universe from being mostly opaque to the brilliant starscape seen today. The new work appears in a paper in Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society. Researchers report on observations of some of the first galaxies to form in the universe, less than 1 billion years after the big bang (or a little more than 13 billion years ago). The data show that in a few specific wavelengths of infrared light, the galaxies are considerably brighter than scientists anticipated. The study is the first to confirm this phenomenon for a large sampling of galaxies from this period, showing that these were not special cases of excessive brightness, but that even average galaxies present at that time were much brighter in these wavelengths than galaxies we see today. No one knows for sure when the first stars in our universe burst to life. But evidence suggests that between about 100 million and 200 million years after the Big Bang, the Universe was filled mostly with neutral hydrogen gas that had perhaps just begun to coalesce into stars, which then began to form the first galaxies. By about 1 billion years after the big bang, the Universe had become a sparkling firmament. Something else had changed, too: Electrons of the omnipresent neutral hydrogen gas had been stripped away in a process known as ionisation. The Epoch of Reionisation -- the changeover from a universe full of neutral hydrogen to one filled with ionised hydrogen -- is well documented. Before this Universe-wide transformation, long-wavelength forms of light, such as radio waves and visible light, traversed the universe more or less unencumbered. But shorter wavelengths of light -- including ultraviolet light, X-rays and gamma rays -- were stopped short by neutral hydrogen atoms. These collisions would strip the neutral hydrogen atoms of their electrons, ionising them. But what could have possibly produced enough ionizing radiation to affect all the hydrogen in the Universe? Was it individual stars? Giant galaxies? If either were the culprit, those early cosmic colonisers would have been different than most modern stars and galaxies, which typically don't release high amounts of ionising radiation. Then again, perhaps something else entirely caused the event, such as quasars -- galaxies with incredibly bright centres powered by huge amounts of material orbiting supermassive black holes. "It's one of the biggest open questions in observational cosmology," said Stephane De Barros, lead author of the study and a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Geneva in Switzerland. "We know it happened, but what caused it? These new findings could be a big clue." To peer back in time to the era just before the Epoch of Reionisation ended, Spitzer stared at two regions of the sky for more than 200 hours each, allowing the space telescope to collect light that had travelled for more than 13 billion years to reach us. As some of the longest science observations ever carried out by Spitzer, they were part of an observing campaign called GREATS, short for GOODS Re-ionization Era wide-Area Treasury from Spitzer. GOODS (itself an acronym: Great Observatories Origins Deep Survey) is another campaign that performed the first observations of some GREATS targets. The study also used archival data from the NASA / ESA Hubble Space Telescope. Using these ultra-deep observations by Spitzer, the team of astronomers observed 135 distant galaxies and found that they were all particularly bright in two specific wavelengths of infrared light produced by ionising radiation interacting with hydrogen and oxygen gases within the galaxies. This implies that these galaxies were dominated by young, massive stars composed mostly of hydrogen and helium. They contain very small amounts of "heavy" elements (like nitrogen, carbon and oxygen) compared to stars found in average modern galaxies. These stars were not the first stars to form in the Universe (those would have been composed of hydrogen and helium only) but were still members of a very early generation of stars. The Epoch of Reionisation wasn't an instantaneous event, so while the new results are not enough to close the book on this cosmic event, they do provide new details about how the Universe evolved at this time and how the transition played out. "We did not expect that Spitzer, with a mirror no larger than a Hula-Hoop, would be capable of seeing galaxies so close to the dawn of time," said Michael Werner, Spitzer's project scientist at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena, California. "But nature is full of surprises, and the unexpected brightness of these early galaxies, together with Spitzer's superb performance, puts them within range of our small but powerful observatory." The NASA / CSA / ESA James Webb Space Telescope, set to launch in 2021, will study the Universe in many of the same wavelengths observed by Spitzer. But where Spitzer's primary mirror is only 85 centimetres in diameter, Webb's is 6.5 metres -- about 7.5 times larger -- enabling Webb to study these galaxies in far greater detail. In fact, Webb will try to detect light from the first stars and galaxies in the Universe. The new study shows that due to their brightness in those infrared wavelengths, the galaxies observed by Spitzer will be easier for Webb to study than previously thought. "These results by Spitzer are certainly another step in solving the mystery of cosmic reionisation," said Pascal Oesch, an assistant professor at the University of Geneva and a co-author on the study. "We now know that the physical conditions in these early galaxies were very different than in typical galaxies today. It will be the job of the James Webb Space Telescope to work out the detailed reasons why." ### Media contacts Calla Cofield Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Pasadena, Calif. Tel: +1 626-808-2469 calla.e.cofield@jpl.nasa.gov http://www.jpl.nasa.gov (UK) Dr Robert Massey Royal Astronomical Society Tel: +44 (0)20 7292 3979 Mob: +44 (0)7802 877699 rmassey@ras.ac.uk Science contact (Switzerland) Dr Stephane De Barros Astronomy Department of the University of Geneva Switzerland Tel: +41 (0) 22 379 24 38 stephane.debarros@unige.ch https://obshttp://www.unige.ch/people/stephane.debarros/en/ Images and captions https://ras.ac.uk/sites/default/files/2019-05/GREATS_GOODS-INSET.jpg This deep-field view of the sky (centre) taken by NASA's Hubble and Spitzer space telescopes is dominated by galaxies -- including some very faint, very distant ones -- circled in red. The bottom right inset shows the light collected from one of those galaxies during a long-duration observation. Credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech/ESA/Spitzer/P. Oesch/S. De Barros/I.Labbe https://ras.ac.uk/sites/default/files/2019-05/JPLNasa_press%20release_image3.jpg This artist's illustration shows what one of the very first galaxies in the universe might have looked like. High levels of violent star formation and star death would have illuminated the gas filling the space between stars, making the galaxy largely opaque and without a clear structure. Credit: James Josephides (Swinburne Astronomy Productions) More text and multimedia at https://www.jpl.nasa.gov/news/news.php?release=2019-084 Further information The new work appears in "The GREATS H+[O III]Luminosity Function and Galaxy Properties at z?8 ?: Walking the Way of JWST", S. De Barros et al, Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society, Oxford University Press, in press. A copy of the paper is available from https://academic.oup.com/mnras/advance-article-abstract/doi/10.1093/mnras/stz940/5427918?redirectedFrom=fulltext Notes for editors JPL manages the Spitzer Space Telescope mission for NASA's Science Mission Directorate in Washington. Science operations are conducted at the Spitzer Science Center at Caltech in Pasadena. Space operations are based at Lockheed Martin Space Systems in Littleton, Colorado. Data are archived at the Infrared Science Archive housed at IPAC at Caltech. Caltech manages JPL for NASA. For more information on Spitzer, visit http://www.nasa.gov/spitzer and http://www.spitzer.caltech.edu/ The Royal Astronomical Society (RAS, http://www.ras.ac.uk), founded in 1820, encourages and promotes the study of astronomy, solar-system science, geophysics and closely related branches of science. The RAS organizes scientific meetings, publishes international research and review journals, recognizes outstanding achievements by the award of medals and prizes, maintains an extensive library, supports education through grants and outreach activities and represents UK astronomy nationally and internationally. Its more than 4,000 members (Fellows), a third based overseas, include scientific researchers in universities, observatories and laboratories as well as historians of astronomy and others. The RAS accepts papers for its journals based on the principle of peer review, in which fellow experts on the editorial boards accept the paper as worth considering. The Society issues press releases based on a similar principle, but the organisations and scientists concerned have overall responsibility for their content. Twitter: https://twitter.com/royalastrosoc Facebook: https://facebook.com/royalastrosoc Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/royalastrosoc/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/RoyalAstroSoc/feed Fungi are the most common cause of diseases in crops and other plants, and pose major threats to humans and other animals. The successful treatment of fungal diseases is difficult partly because the mechanisms for fungal pathogenesis remain largely unknown as well as that fungi are eukaryotes as the host cells. Multiple lifestyles have been recruited by fungi to live in different environments. The relevance of fungal dimorphism to fungal infections has been demonstrated previously. Most pathogenic fungi are opportunistic and their lifestyle transition from saprophytes to pathogens is a key point for fungal infections. Among them, Arthrobotrys oligospora, a typical nematode-trapping fungus, can be induced by nematodes to develop adhesive networks which is a key indicator of its transition from saprophytes to predators. The adhesive networks are then utilized to capture nematode preys, followed by penetration and digestion (Figure 1). A. oligospora has thus been considered as nature killers of nematodes which cause great losses in crops. Therefore, it is of great importance to understand the underlying mechanisms for lifestyle transition of A. oligospora. Biologists from the State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Bio-Resources in Yunnan of Yunnan University conducted a pioneer study by exploring the potential roles of small RNAs during the trap induction of A. oligospora. "We started with small RNA sequencing and predicted microRNA-like RNAs using three methods. A total of 863 putative microRNA-like RNAs have been predicted and 7 of them have been confirmed. The target genes of the putative microRNA-like RNAs were predicted using five methods. It is very interesting to find out that the qde-2 gene was in the target list of mil-289." Said Dr. Xinglai Ji, the senior author for this work. "This is a high risk study for that it is not for sure whether microRNA-like RNAs exist or function in trap induction of A. oligospora. Although miRNAs widely exist in animals and plants, they were rarely reported in fungi. Our study suggests the wide existence of microRNA-like RNAs in nematode-trapping fungi and play important roles in their lifestyle transition, which provides new insights into understanding the adaptation of fungi from scavengers to pathogens." Said Xinglai. "This work is a great team work that collaborated by the scientists from different areas. The study was designed with combination of both bioinformatics analysis and experimental confirmation." said the corresponding author Dr. KeQin Zhang, a scientist working on nematode-trapping fungi for many years. After comprehensive analyses, the potential microRNA-like RNAs with high expression were confirmed by experiments. "High-throughput sequencing technologies provided opportunities to screen for targets on genome scale. And then they were confirmed by following experiments. Moreover, further studies showed they were very important in nematode-trapping fungi and how they worked during the induction pathways. Nematode-trapping fungi can keep nematode population in balance in nature, which makes them good potential bio-control agents. The critical role of microRNA-like RNAs and related pathways is of great interests of developing high efficient agents to help prevention of nematodes in agriculture." Said KeQin. "Both RT-PCR and northern blot analysis were carried out for confirmation of the 170 putative microRNA-like RNAs. To explore their functions, the genes encoding the confirmed microRNA-like RNAs were knocked out separately to observe whether the deleted strains can be induced as the wild strains. Besides, the argonaute protein QDE-2 was immunoprecipitated and RIP analysis was performed to verify whether the microRNA-like RNAs and their target genes were associated with QDE-2 and how they worked. Moreover, qde-2 gene was also removed from the genome which led to more serious deficiency in lifestyle transition than deletion of single microRNA-like RNA." Said Dr. Heng Li, the co-first author. "The interesting part is that the inhibition of qde-2 by mil-289 can be confirmed in transient gene expression system in tobacco, which forms a regulatory loop in the RNAi regulation (Figure 2). Further studies are still needed." ### This work was supported by the National Basic Research Program of China (2013CB127500), the National Natural Science Foundation of China (31160021, 31270131, U1502262), Nanjing University of Posts and Telecommunications Scientific Foundation (NY218140) and State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Bio-Resources in Yunnan (2018KF003). See the article: Ji, X., Li, H., Zhang, W., Wang, J., Liang, L., Zou, C., Yu, Z., Liu, S., and Zhang, K.Q. (2019). The lifestyle transition of Arthrobotrys oligospora is mediated by microRNA-like RNAs. Sci China Life Sci 62, https://doi.org/10.1007/s11427-018-9437-7 http://engine.scichina.com/publisher/scp/journal/SCLS/doi/10.1007/s11427-018-9437-7?slug=fulltext Research focused on defending the skin from the environment and aging demonstrates the antioxidant benefit of eucalyptus extract on skin and how the activation of key sirtuins improves skin cellular response The Estee Lauder Companies Inc. (NYSE: EL) Research & Development (R&D) team will present research focused on new findings in skin defense and anti-aging research at the 2019 Society for Investigative Dermatology Meeting (SID) in Chicago from May 8th - 11th. The Estee Lauder Companies' R&D team is a global leader in understanding how environmental factors impact skin. Human skin is our first barrier of protection against potential environmental stressors, such as pollution and UV. Studies have shown how cutting-edge key ingredients can aid skin defense and response using its natural capabilities. The following summarizes the Estee Lauder Companies' R&D team's research that will be presented at the 2019 SID meeting: The Estee Lauder Companies' R&D team has discovered how each sirtuin isotype is essential to skin cell activity, and the activation of sirtuins with key ingredients is able to impact and increase the activity of skin fibroblasts to help combat aging. Additionally, the Estee Lauder Companies' R&D team's research has shown that another key ingredient, Eucalyptus globulus extract has significant antioxidant activity that can help skin to defend against oxidative stress from pollution, UV or blue light to reduce associated oxidative damage. "The Estee Lauder Companies' R&D team is at the forefront of understanding the impact that environmental stressors have on the barrier of skin and the impact it has on skin aging," said Kurt Schilling, Ph.D., Senior Vice President, Basic Science Research and Advanced Technology, Research & Development, The Estee Lauder Companies. "As our scientific research continues to uncover key anti-aging ingredients and better understand the biological mechanisms behind aging, we will continue to apply this knowledge to help define and advance the future of beauty for our global consumers." The following summarizes The Estee Lauder Companies R&D research that will be presented at the 2019 SID meeting: * Sirtuins and their importance in skin, The Estee Lauder Companies Increasing evidence has demonstrated the importance of Sirtuins in longevity, metabolism and control of stress. Sirtuins are evolutionarily well-conserved proteins found in mammalian cells and include seven isotypes. Sirtuins function primarily as NAD-dependent deacetylases, although two of the seven have ribosyl transferase activity. The collapse of local chromatin results in the modulation of transcriptional programs involved in metabolism and inflammation. This research shows that by combining a flower extract which activates Sirt-1, an algae extract which activates Sirt-3, and a ferment which activates Sirt-6, there is an impact and increase in the activity of 62-year-old skin fibroblasts. * Skin cells can sense and integrate signals coming from Eucalyptus extract to combat environmental insults and regenerate from within, The Estee Lauder Companies Accumulating scientific evidence has demonstrated that exposure to ozone, pollution, UV radiation and blue light can have detrimental effects on human skin, including increased oxidative stress and inflammation, and decreased barrier function. Eucalyptus globulus, also known as Tasmanian bluegum or Southern blue-gum, is a widely cultivated evergreen tree native to Australia. Numerous studies have characterized the pharmacological benefits provided by E. globulus, including antibacterial and antifungal, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antitumor, and antihistaminic activities among many others. This research shows that Eucalyptus extract has significant antioxidant activity that can help skin to defend against oxidative stress from pollution, UV or blue light and reduce associated oxidative damage. ### About The Estee Lauder Companies Inc. The Estee Lauder Companies Inc. is one of the world's leading manufacturers and marketers of quality skin care, makeup, fragrance and hair care products. The Company's products are sold in over 150 countries and territories under brand names including: Estee Lauder, Aramis, Clinique, Prescriptives, Lab Series, Origins, Tommy Hilfiger, MAC, Kiton, La Mer, Bobbi Brown, Donna Karan New York, DKNY, Aveda, Jo Malone London, Bumble and bumble, Michael Kors, Darphin, Tom Ford, Smashbox, Ermenegildo Zegna, AERIN, Tory Burch, RODIN olio lusso, Le Labo, Editions de Parfums Frederic Malle, GLAMGLOW, By Kilian, BECCA and Too Faced. Contact Sarah Vickery, Ph.D. | The Estee Lauder Companies Telephone: (631) 756-8166 Email: svickery@estee.com Largest trials of their kind suggest that whole body MRI may be quicker and cheaper than standard imaging for detecting spread of colorectal and non-small cell lung cancers, while just as sensitive Trials with people with newly-diagnosed colorectal and non-small cell lung cancer suggest that whole body MRI could reduce the time it takes to diagnose the stage of cancers. The results are from two prospective trials with nearly 500 patients across 16 UK hospitals, published in The Lancet Gastroenterology & Hepatology and The Lancet Respiratory Medicine journals. Whole body MRI scans reduced the average time to determine the size of tumours and how much they had spread by five days for colorectal cancer patients and six days for lung cancer patients. The treatments decided upon were similar, since results from MRI were as accurate as from standard investigations, but the costs per patient were reduced by nearly a quarter in the case of colorectal cancer and were almost halved for lung cancer. More research is needed to determine how this affects outcomes for patients. Despite their accuracy and efficiency, the authors note that MRI scanners are not as widely available as other imaging technologies and are in high demand. In the trials, many of the hospitals were not able to find time on their MRI scanners, meaning that patients were examined in nearby hospitals. "Our results, obtained in a real-world NHS setting, suggest that whole body MRI could be more suitable for routine clinical practice than the multiple imaging techniques recommended under current guidelines," says lead author Professor Stuart Taylor from UCL, UK. "While demands on NHS MRI scanners is currently high, MRI can image the whole body in one-hour or less Adopting whole body MRI more widely could save rather than increase costs, as well as reducing the time before a patient's treatment can begin." [1] Appropriate treatment cannot be decided upon until the size of a tumour and the extent to which it has spread to nearby lymph nodes and other parts of the body has been determined. Standard NHS pathways often involve different imaging techniques - such as CT, PET-CT or focused MRI scans - which vary in accuracy in different organs. Several appointments and follow-up examinations can therefore be necessary. For the first time, the two new trials compare the diagnostic accuracy and efficiency of whole body MRI with the standard NHS pathways, which use a range of imaging techniques for assessing colorectal and lung cancers. The standard imaging tests recommended by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) [2] were undertaken as usual and the usual multi-disciplinary panel made a first treatment decision based on their results. Once this decision had been recorded, they considered images and reports from whole body MRI. If the latter highlighted a need for further tests, these were carried out. The panel were then able to say whether their first treatment decision would have different based on WB-MRI result. In the interests of patient care, the final decision was made based on results from all tests. Patients were also followed up after 12 months to better evaluate the accuracy of whole body MRI compared with standard tests. For example, whether one approach was more sensitive than the other in detecting spread of the primary tumour to other parts of the body. Based on this data, the panel were able to retrospectively evaluate what the optimal treatment decision should have been. Sensitivity and specificity of diagnosis for whole body MRI did not differ from standard tests for both cancers. The use of whole body MRI reduced the time it took to complete diagnostic tests, from an average of 13 days to an average of 8 days in the colorectal cancer trial and from 19 days to 13 days in the lung cancer trial. Costs were reduced from an average of 285 to 216 in the colorectal cancer trial and from an average of 620 to 317 in the lung cancer trial. In the colorectal cancer trial, agreement with the final multi-disciplinary panel treatment decision based on standard investigations and whole body MRI was similar and high (95% and 96%, respectively), as were results for the lung cancer trial (99% for standard investigations, and 98% for whole body MRI). Eight of the 16 hospitals in the colorectal cancer trial and 11 of the 16 hospitals in the lung cancer trial did not have the infrastructure to perform whole body MRI. The authors note that their findings are specific to colorectal and non-small cell lung cancer and might not be relevant to tumours arising in other parts of the body. In addition, waiting times might not be representative of other UK hospitals or of hospitals in other countries. A further limitation of the lung cancer trial is that sensitivity in detecting the spread of cancers - including the development of secondary tumours and the spread to lymph nodes - was low using both current standard imaging techniques and whole body MRI. Further research is needed to improve the performance of non-invasive imaging. Writing in a linked Comment, Professor Andreas Schreyer from Brandenburg Medical School, Germany, says of the colorectal cancer trial: "MRI has faced considerable backlash within the medical community due to relatively high costs and the problems involved in finding a timely slot for imaging because of the high demand for this method. This is why it is particularly important to think outside the box and look out for new medical pathways and paradigms and not to be driven by prejudices. It could be more efficient to adapt the known therapeutic concept of hitting hard and early to diagnostic imaging to improve medical outcomes and economic performance." ### Peer-reviewed / Observational study / People NOTES TO EDITORS The trials were funded by the UK National Institute for Health Research. [1] Quote direct from author and cannot be found in the text of the Article. [2] For both lung and colorectal cancer, the UK National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) provides guidance on staging pathways: In colorectal cancer, CT of the chest abdomen and pelvis is recommended, supplemented by pelvic MRI for local staging of rectal cancer. In routine clinical practice it is not unusual for patients to undergo PET CT and/or liver MRI if disease spread is suspected. Staging pathways in lung cancer are more complex, with CT, PET-CT, MRI, US and endobronchial/ percutaneous biopsy all recommended at various points during staging. The labels have been added to this press release as part of a project run by the Academy of Medical Sciences seeking to improve the communication of evidence. For more information, please see: http://www.sciencemediacentre.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/AMS-press-release-labelling-system-GUIDANCE.pdf if you have any questions or feedback, please contact The Lancet press office pressoffice@lancet.com IF YOU WISH TO PROVIDE A LINK FOR YOUR READERS, PLEASE USE THE FOLLOWING, WHICH WILL GO LIVE AT THE TIME THE EMBARGO LIFTS: http://www.thelancet.com/journals/langas/article/PIIS2468-1253(19)30056-1/fulltext and http://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanres/article/PIIS2213-2600(19)30090-6/fulltext Charge transfer processes play a fundamental role in all electronic and optoelectronic devices. For devices based on organic thin-film technology, these include the injection of the charge carriers via the metallic contacts and the charge transport in the organic film itself. Injection processes at the contacts are of particular interest here because the contact resistances at the interfaces must be minimized for optimum device efficiency. However, such internal interfaces are difficult to access and therefore not yet understood very well. The team of cfaed research group leader Frank Ortmann (Computational Nanoelectronics Group), together with researchers from Spain, Belgium and Germany, has now shown in a study that the electronic transport mechanism when injected into an organic film can be described by the so-called Marcus hopping model known from physical chemistry. The model was developed by the American chemist Rudolph Arthur Marcus. Comparative theoretical and experimental investigations unequivocally identified the transport regimes predicted in the Marcus theory. "The predictions derived by R.A. Marcus in the context of chemical synthesis in the 1950s, in particular the so-called 'inverted Marcus regime', could only be confirmed many decades later by systematic experiments on chemical reactions. For his important theoretical contributions, R.A. Marcus received the Nobel Prize for Chemistry in 1992 ", says Ortmann. "Now, the observation of the 'Inverted Marcus Region', in which a higher voltage generates a lower current, succeeded for the first time in an organic transistor, in which the injection voltage can be actively controlled", Ortmann continues. This leads to a better understanding of electronic and optoelectronic organic devices in general. The publication has been published on 7th May, 2019 in the journal "Nature Communications". ### About the Computational Nanoelectronics Group The research group at the Center for Advancing Electronics Dresden (cfaed) headed by Dr. Frank Ortmann investigates electronic properties and charge transport properties of novel semiconductor materials. Here, organic semiconductors are currently an important focus of the work, which is funded by the German Research Foundation under the Emmy Noether Program. The group has been based at the cfaed since 2017. Info: https://cfaed.tu-dresden.de/ortmann-home Media inquiries: Matthias Hahndorf Center for Advancing Electronics Dresden, TU Dresden Head of Communications Tel.: +49 351 463-42847 Email: matthias.hahndorf@tu-dresden.de RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, N.C. (May 9, 2019) - Research funded in part by the U.S. Army identified properties in materials that could one day lead to applications such as more powerful data storage devices that continue to hold information even after a device has been powered off. A team of researchers led by Cornell University and the University of California Berkeley made a discovery that opens up a plethora of materials systems and physical phenomena that can now be explored. The scientists observed what's known as chirality for the first time in polar skyrmions in an exquisitely designed and synthesized artificial material with reversible electrical properties. Chirality is where two objects, like a pair of gloves, can be mirror images of each other but cannot be superimposed on one another. Polar skyrmions are textures made up of opposite electric charges known as dipoles. Researchers had always assumed that skyrmions would only appear in magnetic materials, where special interactions between magnetic spins of charged electrons stabilize the twisting chiral patterns of skyrmions. When the team discovered skyrmions in an electric material, they were astounded, they said. The combination of polar skyrmions and these electrical properties may allow for the development of novel devices that are of significant interest to the Army, especially using the chirality as a parameter that can be manipulated. "Now that we know that polar/electric skyrmions are chiral, we want to see if we can electrically manipulate them," said Dr. Ramamoorthy Ramesh, the co-principal investigator of this project. "If I apply an electric field, can I turn each one like a turnstile? Can I move each one, one at a time, like a checker on a checkerboard? If we can somehow move them, write them, and erase them for data storage, then that would be an amazing new technology." Researchers published their findings in the journal Nature. "This ground-breaking discovery can be used in the future to develop device structures that can be used to improve logic/memory, sensing, communications, and other applications for the Army as well as industry," said Dr. Pani (Chakrapani) Varanasi, chief of the Materials Science Division of the Army Research Office, an element of U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Command's Army Research Laboratory. When the team began the study in 2016, they had set out to find ways to control how heat moves through materials. They fabricated a special crystal structure called a superlattice from alternating layers of lead titanate (an electrically polar material, whereby one end is positively charged and the opposite end is negatively charged) and strontium titanate (an insulator, or a material that doesn't conduct electric current). The research team started to explore the synthesis of artificially designed and structured oxides, with the goal to explore emergent phenomena. Emergent phenomena are pervasive in nature - fish swimming in a school, birds flying in formation, the emergence of crowd and mobs are all examples of how interactions of discrete objects (fish, birds, humans) can lead to unexpected collective behavior. Materials can also exhibit such emergent behavior, especially when placed under constraints. When the scientists took scanning transmission electron microscopy measurements of the artificially engineered lead titanate/strontium titanate superlattice, they saw something strange that had nothing to do with heat: Bubble-like formations had cropped up all across the material. Lead titanate is a well-known ferroelectric material, while strontium titanate, its sister compound is not ferroelectric at room temperature. Ferroelectric are materials that have a spontaneous electric polarization that can be reversed by the application of an external electric field. Those bubbles, it turns out, were polar skyrmions. While using sophisticated scanning transmission electron microscopy at Berkeley Lab's Molecular Foundry and at the Cornell Center for Materials Research, David Muller of Cornell University took atomic snapshots of skyrmions' chirality at room temperature in real time. The researchers discovered that the forces placed on the polar lead titanate layer by the nonpolar strontium titanate layer generated the polar skyrmion bubbles in the lead titanate. "Materials are like people," Ramesh said. "When people get stressed, they respond in unpredictable ways. And that's what materials do too: In this case, by surrounding lead titanate by strontium titanate, lead titanate starts to go crazy - and one way that it goes crazy is to create polar textures like skyrmions instead of being uniformly polarized." "This work has enabled the discovery of a fundamentally new phenomena in oxide superlattices," Schlom said. "We now have a template based on epitaxy to create many other science universes. For example, we can start to look at spin-charge coupling in such superlattices; work on this is already underway." The researchers also plan to study the effects of applying an electric field on the polar skyrmions. ### Researchers from Pennsylvania State University and Oak Ridge National Laboratory also contributed to the study. Additionally, the Department of Energy Office of Science supported this research with additional funding provided by the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation's EPiQS Initiative, the National Science Foundation, the Luxembourg National Research Fund, and the Spanish Ministry of Economy and Competitiveness. The CCDC Army Research Laboratory (ARL) is an element of the U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command. As the Army's corporate research laboratory, ARL discovers, innovates and transitions science and technology to ensure dominant strategic land power. Through collaboration across the command's core technical competencies, CCDC leads in the discovery, development and delivery of the technology-based capabilities required to make Soldiers more lethal to win our Nation's wars and come home safely. CCDC is a major subordinate command of the U.S. Army Futures Command. Adults with lupus who report having had adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), such as abuse, neglect and household challenges, report higher disease activity, depression and poorer overall health compared to those without such experiences, according to a study by researchers at UC San Francisco. "Our results support the notion that stress in the form of ACEs may be a factor in poor health in systemic lupus, both in disease development and in more severe outcomes," said lead author Kimberly DeQuattro, MD, a clinical fellow in rheumatology at UCSF. "These findings are a call to action to focus efforts on ACE prevention in childhood, as well as clinical and mental health interventions that foster resilience in adulthood." The findings appear online May 9, 2019, in Arthritis Care & Research. Systemic lupus erythematosus is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks the body's own tissues, causing widespread inflammation and tissue damage in affected organs. Lupus is influenced by genetics and the environment, with stress acting as a potential trigger of disease onset and flares, and can lead to chronic disability. Studies have shown that a large percentage of adults have had adverse childhood experiences. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, ACEs have been linked to risky health behaviors, chronic health conditions, low life potential and early death. They also are believed to be a risk factor for autoimmune diseases such as lupus. In the Arthritis Care & Research study, DeQuattro and her colleagues surveyed 269 lupus patients in the California Lupus Epidemiology Study (CLUES) who completed the ACE questionnaire, a 10-item survey covering abuse, neglect and household challenges. These patients were compared to 6,107 participants from the 2015 California Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS), which also includes an ACE questionnaire. The researchers then examined five patient-reported outcomes (lupus flares, damage, depression, physical function and quality of life) with three physician-assessed measures (lupus flares, damage and severity indices) made during an in-person study visit with the patients. Overall, adverse childhood experience levels were similar for lupus patients and Behavioral Risk study respondents. In lupus patients, 63.2 percent self-reported at least one ACE, and 19.3 percent had at least four ACEs. ACEs were more prevalent in those who were older, female, Latino or African American, without college degrees, and with lupus nephritis (kidney inflammation from lupus). In adjusted models, more experience of abuse, neglect and household challenges were associated with worse self-reported lupus activity, depression and health status. For example, those with more than four ACEs reported nearly double the disease activity scores of their non-ACE exposed peers (13.1 points to 7.7). These findings were not significantly associated with physician-assessed lupus activity, damage or severity. "This work in lupus patients supports more broadly the body of studies on adversity and trauma in childhood that have found a link between ACEs and health," DeQuattro said. "Our next steps are to look at other types of stress and trauma, how the body responds, and how they relate to lupus outcomes." The researchers emphasize the need for prevention of adverse childhood experiences and promotion of safe, stable, nurturing relationships and environments for children. Clinicians also should regularly screen lupus patients for ACEs, along with depression and overall perceived health status, regardless of disease status, the researchers said. It may be more beneficial to screen near the time of diagnosis to identify those at higher risk for poor outcomes. ### Co-Authors: Senior author Jinoos Yazdany, Laura Trupin, Jing Li, Patricia Katz, Cristina Lanata, Edward Yelin, Stephanie Rush, Lindsey Criswell and Maria Dall'Era, of UCSF; and Louise Murphy, of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Funding: The study was supported by CDC 5U01DP005120; NIH/NIAMS P30AR070155, P60AR053308, 2R01AR056476, T32AR00730439; Rheumatology Research Foundation Scientist Development Award 128849A, Robert L. Kroc Chair in Rheumatic and Connective Tissue Diseases; Robert Wood Johnson Investigator Health Policy Award; and Russell/Engleman Medical Research Center for Arthritis. Disclosures: The authors report no conflicts of interest. About UCSF: UC San Francisco (UCSF) is a leading university dedicated to promoting health worldwide through advanced biomedical research, graduate-level education in the life sciences and health professions, and excellence in patient care. It includes top-ranked graduate schools of dentistry, medicine, nursing and pharmacy; a graduate division with nationally renowned programs in basic, biomedical, translational and population sciences; and a preeminent biomedical research enterprise. It also includes UCSF Health, which comprises three top-ranked hospitals - UCSF Medical Center and UCSF Benioff Children's Hospitals in San Francisco and Oakland - as well as Langley Porter Psychiatric Hospital and Clinics, UCSF Benioff Children's Physicians and the UCSF Faculty Practice. UCSF Health has affiliations with hospitals and health organizations throughout the Bay Area. UCSF faculty also provide all physician care at the public Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital and Trauma Center, and the SF VA Medical Center. The UCSF Fresno Medical Education Program is a major branch of the University of California, San Francisco's School of Medicine. Please visit http://www.ucsf.edu/news. RIVERSIDE, Calif. -- A stroke treatment developed by researcher Byron Ford at the University of California, Riverside, has moved toward clinical trials. The treatment focuses on neuregulins, a family of naturally occurring proteins that has shown promise for treating stroke, a leading cause of death in the United States and the major cause of long-term disability. During stroke, blood supply to the brain is interrupted. Most often, an artery to the brain gets blocked by a clot or a blood vessel ruptures. With no blood -- and therefore no oxygen or nutrients -- reaching the brain, cells in the brain begin to die locally, at the "core," within a couple of hours. Subsequently, the core cells burst and release their components into the surrounding area, which then experiences a dramatic inflammatory response. This area, called the ischemic penumbra, dies over the course of several hours or days. Neuregulin-1, or NRG-1, one of four proteins in the neuregulin family, prevents this inflammation and cell death. "Cells in the core die by getting overexcited and exploding," said Ford, a professor of biomedical sciences at the UCR School of Medicine, whose company, Brain-Gen, has patents for the use of NRG-1 to treat stroke. "Cells in the ischemic penumbra die by committing suicide. This happens, we believe, to prevent the whole brain from dying. An analogy: imagine a grenade is flung into a crowded theater, and a few people throw themselves on the grenade. They will die, but due to their sacrifice, others may very likely be spared." Brain-Gen is co-owned by his brother Gregory Ford, a neuroscientist and the dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at Fort Valley State University in Georgia. Byron Ford explained that Zensun Biotech, a Shanghai-based Chinese company with which Brain-Gen has recently partnered, has patents to use a particular form of neuregulin, called Neucardin, to treat heart failure. Zensun Biotech does not have patents, however, for Neucardin's use in clinical trials for stroke. Brain-Gen tested Neucardin and found it works for stroke in animal models. The two companies have signed an agreement to collaboratively move Neucardin toward clinical trials for stroke and to form a joint venture. The new company plans to approach the Food and Drug Administration, or FDA, to expand the use of Neucardin for stroke and to explore the possibility of securing funding from the National Institutes of Health, or NIH, with the aim of joining its StrokeNet clinical trials program. Involving more than 200 hospitals in the country, StrokeNet conducts small and large clinical trials and research studies to advance acute stroke treatment, stroke prevention, and recovery and rehabilitation following a stroke. "To our advantage, Zensun has already completed phase I and phase II clinical trials for heart failure and shown that Neucardin is safe and improves heart function in patients," Ford said. "A stroke is like a heart attack in the brain. If the FDA says we can cross-reference Zensun's data for approval to treat stroke, this would greatly expedite matters as we apply to become part of the NIH StrokeNet." Each year, nearly 800,000 Americans have a stroke, of which about 140,000 die. The "Stroke Belt," an area in the southeastern United States and Mississippi Valley, has the highest rate of stroke mortality in the country. Currently, the only FDA-approved drug to treat stroke is tissue plasminogen activator, or t-PA, which melts the clot. It has no effect on brain cells, however, and can be used only within a three-hour window from the witnessed time of stroke onset, beyond which t-PA damages blood vessels and causes bleeding. Further, only 3%-5% of stroke patients qualify for t-PA due to the limited time window and access to primary stroke centers. In contrast, Neucardin can be given to a patient more than 12 hours after a stroke and has been shown to be safe in patients. Ford proposes that Neucardin be administered intravascularly to the patient along with t-PA to offer protection to the brain and potentially block t-PA's negative effects that lead to bleeding in the brain. "Neucardin can possibly be delivered in an ambulatory setting due to its relatively safe profile," he said. "It can be given to the patient even before it has been determined if a stroke took place. It can also be delivered days following stroke to stimulate repair and regeneration in the brain. All this significantly boosts our hope for treating stroke." ### The University of California, Riverside (http://www.ucr.edu) is a doctoral research university, a living laboratory for groundbreaking exploration of issues critical to Inland Southern California, the state and communities around the world. Reflecting California's diverse culture, UCR's enrollment is more than 24,000 students. The campus opened a medical school in 2013 and has reached the heart of the Coachella Valley by way of the UCR Palm Desert Center. The campus has an annual statewide economic impact of almost $2 billion. To learn more, email news@ucr.edu. Policies aimed at encouraging rural innovation should take into account the differences between entrepreneurs and how they view where they live, according to a new study. Researchers at the University of East Anglia (UEA) and De Montfort University have found that meanings attached to where someone lives are shaped by previous experiences, and this in turn influences their innovation strategies and entrepreneurial activity. Key to this are migratory experiences, which the study categorises into four types: 'locally-born', those who have stayed in the area all their lives; 'returnees', who left to study or for work and later returned; 'in-migrants', those born in other parts of the UK who moved into the area, often after years of employment elsewhere; and 'immigrants' born in another country. The findings, published in the journal Regional Studies, suggest that rural-specific resources - for example, traditional heritage, natural beauty and assets - are not widely used in introducing innovation by rural entrepreneurs. The most innovative rural entrepreneurs are migrants who not only use pre-existing contacts made outside the rural area to create jobs when they move into it, but also build on previous life experiences to gain 'continuous' access to distant knowledge resources through new contacts and transient supply chains. The relative local detachment of in-migrant entrepreneurs makes them particularly suitable candidates for exploring and exploiting innovative alternatives in their business activity. Study authors Dr Zografia Bika from UEA and Prof Christos Kalantaridis from De Montfort say their findings have important implications for rural innovation policies both locally and nationally. They also argue that the UK Industrial Strategy fails to consider the complexities of the meaning of a place for different people, and disregards rurality as a distinct context for policy action. Current policies focus on innovative activity being clustered in specific regions, sectors and rural resources. They also consider everyone living in a rural area as one, yet these areas have seen demographic changes, with urban to rural migration and most recently international arrivals, largely due to the desirable living environment rural areas offer but also the labour mobility rules of the EU. Dr Bika, of UEA's Norwich Business School, said: "The way people in the same rural area perceive and approach innovation is quite different and reflects their previous experiences and what the place means to them, for example in terms of being rich in resources or not, or being a good or bad place to live and do business. "The importance attached in rural innovation policy to understanding innovative activity from the point of view of local people acquires particular relevance in the context of the changing demographic realities of rural areas, as these may underpin the emergence of different views among individuals. "Instead of having a top down approach and focusing on particular sectors and clustering around rural knowledge infrastructures and resources, policies should support diversification. One size does not fit all. It is critical to not only acknowledge but also use the differences within rural communities." Prof Kalantaridis said the findings were particularly timely given the UK's decision to leave the EU. "Leaving the EU raises the question of whether this may lead to a reduction of immigration or its re-composition to include more arrivals, with very different experiences, from elsewhere in the world, and therefore new meanings of place and links, but also directs the focus of policy action on migration as central to rural innovation." The researchers call for a move towards the development of connections between innovation networks combining rural specific and distant, at times transient and new knowledge resources: a way of 'open-sourcing' the diversity reported by individual entrepreneurs in light of ongoing personal experiences of moving across places, jobs and organisations. For example, those of family entrepreneurs, owner-managers, migrant entrepreneurs or corporate entrepreneurs who have had diverse entrepreneurial journeys, but carry out their different economic activities in the rural area and can benefit from each other's knowledge portfolio. Dr Bika and Prof Kalantaridis conclude that this "adds a new meaning to personal mobility, itself reshaped following withdrawal from the EU, beyond the provision of entrepreneurial talent and pre-existing networks to an enduring driver of rural innovation." The study focused on rural Cumbria and involved a survey of 110 innovative enterprises, including manufacturing, business services, construction, trade, hotels and services, and agriculture. The findings also draw on four individual case studies, each representing one of the migration types. ### 'Migration, meaning(s) of place and implications for Rural Innovation Policy', Christos Kalantaridis, Zografia Bika and Debbie Millard, is published in Regional Studies on May 9, 2019. An international study, in which the University of Granada (UGR) participated, has found that white people have difficulty distinguishing emotions on black people's faces--a problem that does not appear to arise the other way around. Scientists have shown that white people find it difficult to tell the difference between genuine and false smiles on black people's faces--between genuine and fake happiness. What is more, they have discovered that this happens because white people do not look black people in the eye, as the former regard the latter as being different to them (part of the so-called 'outgroup'). Being able to accurately identify emotions in others is important for social interaction in general, but particularly so in interracial contexts, which are prone to misinterpretations and misunderstandings. Indeed, when there is limited emotional identification with other people, communication becomes inhibited and, ultimately, this may lead to negative--even tragic--results. On 4 April 2015, Walter Scott, an unarmed black man, was stopped in South Carolina by a white police officer for driving with a faulty brake light. When he attempted to flee on foot, the officer, Walter Thomas Slager, shot him dead, discharging eight bullets from behind. This crime, which sent shockwaves through the United States, is just one recent example of such killings, which have, sadly, occurred repeatedly throughout the history of humanity, and to which the media are now paying attention. These acts of violence have a common denominator: people of colour suffering violent attacks at the hands of white people. They illustrate the importance of the impressions that people belonging to different groups form about one another, in terms of the mistrust, fear, or anger, for instance, that sometimes underlie inter-group interactions. Ingroups and outgroups Other research had previously shown that we perceive the members of the groups to which we feel we belong (the 'ingroups') more accurately and in more detail than members of groups to which we do not consider ourselves to belong (the outgroups). Indeed, a number of studies have suggested that white people in the United States tend to perceive the expressions of black people as being angrier than 'white' facial expressions. The research team on this new study therefore wanted to determine whether similar biases occurred in the identification of expressions of positive emotion, such as happiness or joy. The scientists conducted six experiments involving more than 425 participants. In some of these, the participants were all white; in others, they were all black; and others were based on a mixture of participants, including non-black minorities. In all of the experiments, the participants were shown the smiling faces of white or black people, and were asked to rate the level of happiness they perceived in the images. Some faces showed a genuine smile, while others presented forced or fake smiles. Professor Rosa Rodriguez Bailon of the Department of Social Psychology at the UGR and one of the authors of this study, explains: "Using eye-tracking equipment, we showed that paying attention to people's eyes also helps us to detect important characteristics in our perceptions and in how we form our impressions about others, such as the distinction between genuine or 'faked' emotions." White people distinguish emotions better among other white people Thus, the white participants' discernment was more accurate--in terms of correctly identifying smiles as genuine or false--when the images they were shown were of other white people, compared to when they were shown images of black people. No such difference was found in the case of people of colour, who were able to accurately distinguish between expressions of genuine vs. fake happiness, regardless of whether the person smiling was white or black. "We also found that the length of time the white participants devoted to looking into the eyes of other white people in the photographs explained this difference. Again, when the white participants were asked to look just as deeply into the eyes of both black and white people, this difference also disappeared," observes Professor Rodriguez. The results of these studies, and of some others currently under development, demonstrate how important it is to pay attention to individuals' gaze when attempting to explain how we form our impressions of others, as well as to other marked effects shown in the scientific literature on perceptions and impressions of people from other groups. We know from previous research that, of the total time we spend, on average, looking at the faces of other people and forming an impression of them, over 40% is devoted to focusing on the eyes in particular. "By concentrating on a person's gaze, it's more likely that we will avoid some of the more harmful effects of the mistrust and lack of identification we feel towards people from groups other than our own," concludes the UGR's Professor Rodriguez. ### Chapel Hill, NC - Chlamydia is the most prevalent bacterial sexually transmitted infection (STI) in the world. There is no vaccine to prevent infection. However, researchers from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, in partnership with colleagues at other sites in the US, Europe and Australia, will receive up to $10.7 million over five years from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to move closer to identifying a vaccine candidate. "Chlamydia can cause infertility and chronic pelvic pain in women, and infection has been linked to an increased risk for ovarian cancer," said Principal Investigator Toni Darville, M.D., chief of the UNC Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, vice chair of pediatric research and a distinguished professor of pediatrics, microbiology and immunology at the UNC School of Medicine. "Chlamydia is asymptomatic in 90 percent of men and women, leading to extremely high rates of infection. People don't know they are infected, which is why a vaccine to prevent infection is so important. Women develop silent chronic infection and then present with infertility." The NIH's National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) awarded four U19 CRCs, or cooperative research centers, funding to develop vaccines for chlamydia, syphilis and gonorrhea. Darville will lead the UNC Chlamydia Vaccine Initiative STI CRC. While at the University of Pittsburgh, her team received funding from NIAID to study the T-cell Response Against Chlamydia in women, or TRAC, project. Since chlamydia multiplies inside host cells in a protective vacuole, a robust T-cell response is essential for protection. This new award will support TRAC2, which is the first of three main projects this new CRC will investigate. In the first of these three projects, Darville and colleagues at the University of Pittsburgh will further study candidate vaccine antigens they identified in the previous TRAC project. The University of Pittsburgh will serve as the clinical core, enrolling 150 women at high risk of chlamydia infection into a longitudinal study. All women will be tested for this STI, and they will be treated with an antibiotic to clear the infection. They will then be followed at four time points over the next year to check for re-infection. Their samples will be sent to UNC for further T-cell antigen testing. Collaborators at the German Cancer Research Center in Heidelberg will examine the women's antibody responses. "Animals and people can develop partial or complete immunity to chlamydia after prolonged or repeated infection," Darville said. "But many people can be infected over and over again, especially if their partner is not getting treated. We are trying to determine specific T-cell and antibody responses and the antigens recognized by immune cells of women who limit infection to their cervix, and those who remain uninfected over a year despite sexual exposure risk. This information will inform antigens and adjuvants for vaccine development. A preventative vaccine would greatly benefit women who suffer the brunt of disease due to this pathogen. Men rarely suffer negative effects of infection other than transmitting it to their partners." The second project is to test chlamydia vaccine candidates in animal models. Darville and partners will test antigens they previously found to be recognized by women's T-cells, and other antigens identified through TRAC2 using viral vectors and nanoemulsion. The goal is to see which antigens and which delivery method elicit the best protective response against chlamydia in mice and guinea pig models. This second project will involve partners at UNC; Blue Willow Biologics in Ann Arbor, Michigan; Oxford University in England; and Queensland University of Technology in Australia. The third project aims to determine non-invasive biomarkers that predict risk of upper genital tract infection in women acutely infected, as well as markers that predict risk of repeated infection. Such biomarkers could play a role in vaccine development by identifying women most likely to benefit from vaccination, and could also serve as surrogate endpoints of vaccine efficacy in future clinical trials. The partners involved in this project include colleagues at UNC, and N.C. State University. In addition to leading the Chlamydia Vaccine Initiative CRC, UNC researchers are sub-recipients of two of NIAID's three other STI vaccine CRCs, including a project to identify a syphilis vaccine candidate with partners at the University of Connecticut, and a project to identify a gonorrheal vaccine candidate with partners at the Uniformed Services University of Health Sciences in Bethesda. The UNC Chlamydia Vaccine Initiative CRC is funded by NIAID through grant number 1 U19 AI144181-01. The mission of UNC's Institute for Global Health & Infectious Diseases is to harness the full resources of the University and its partners to solve global health problems, reduce the burden of disease, and cultivate the next generation of global health leaders. Learn more at http://www.globalhealth.unc.edu. ### New research has shown that the last surviving flightless species of bird, a type of rail, in the Indian Ocean had previously gone extinct but rose from the dead thanks to a rare process called 'iterative evolution'. The research, from the University of Portsmouth and Natural History Museum, found that on two occasions, separated by tens of thousands of years, a rail species was able to successfully colonise an isolated atoll called Aldabra and subsequently became flightless on both occasions. The last surviving colony of flightless rails is still found on the island today. This is the first time that iterative evolution (the repeated evolution of similar or parallel structures from the same ancestor but at different times) has been seen in rails and one of the most significant in bird records. The white-throated rail is a chicken-sized bird, indigenous to Madagascar in the south-western Indian Ocean. They are persistent colonisers of isolated islands, who would have frequent population explosions and migrate in great numbers from Madagascar. Many of those that went north or south drowned in the expanse of ocean and those that went west landed in Africa, where predators ate them. Of those that went east, some landed on the many ocean islands such as Mauritius, Reunion and Aldabra, the last-named is a ring-shaped coral atoll that formed around 400,000 years ago. With the absence of predators on the atoll, and just like the Dodo of Mauritius, the rails evolved so that they lost the ability to fly. However, Aldabra disappeared when it was completely covered by the sea during a major inundation event around 136,000 years ago, wiping out all fauna and flora including the flightless rail. The researchers studied fossil evidence from 100,000 years ago when the sea-levels fell during the subsequent ice age and the atoll was recolonised by flightless rails. The researchers compared the bones of a fossilised rail from before the inundation event with bones from a rail after the inundation event. They found that the wing bone showed an advanced state of flightlessness and the ankle bones showed distinct properties that it was evolving toward flightlessness. This means that one species from Madagascar gave rise to two different species of flightless rail on Aldabra in the space of a few thousand years. Lead researcher Dr Julian Hume, avian paleontologist and Research Associate at the Natural History Museum, said: "These unique fossils provide irrefutable evidence that a member of the rail family colonised the atoll, most likely from Madagascar, and became flightless independently on each occasion. Fossil evidence presented here is unique for rails, and epitomises the ability of these birds to successfully colonise isolated islands and evolve flightlessness on multiple occasions." Co-author Professor David Martill, from the School of Earth and Environmental Sciences at the University of Portsmouth, said: "We know of no other example in rails, or of birds in general, that demonstrates this phenomenon so evidently. Only on Aldabra, which has the oldest palaeontological record of any oceanic island within the Indian Ocean region, is fossil evidence available that demonstrates the effects of changing sea levels on extinction and recolonisation events. "Conditions were such on Aldabra, the most important being the absence of terrestrial predators and competing mammals, that a rail was able to evolve flightlessness independently on each occasion." The study is published in the latest issue of the Zoological Journal of the Linnean Society. ### From tightrope to trapeze, circus arts have long fascinated and inspired people of all ages. Now, research from the University of South Australia is revealing the true value of circus skills and their unique ability to deliver significant mental health benefits for Australian children. The new study has identified that children's circus skills programs deliver a quantifiable social return on investment by a significant rate of 1:7. Lead researcher, UniSA's Dr Richard McGrath says the finding is potentially life-changing, particularly given the prevalence of mental health conditions. "Mental illness has risen alarmingly in Australia with one in five adults and one in seven children experiencing a mental illness in any one year," Dr McGrath says. "Our research shows that for every dollar invested for a child in a circus training program, seven dollars are potentially saved in their future mental health costs. "Australia's national spending on mental health is around $9.1 billion, making any savings amid an ever-tightening public purse especially timely." The UniSA study used an internationally recognised methodology, and qualitative and quantitative research tools to track the experiences of 55 children (aged 8-14 years) across a six-month Cirkidz Tweenz program, where children had the opportunity to learn, improve and extend new skills in acrobatics, balance, juggling and aerial activities. Dr McGrath says after participating in the circus program children showed significant improvements in four areas of mental wellbeing: stress relief; self-esteem; confidence; and socialisation. "Children reported that circus training helped them feel much better about themselves, both physically and mentally," Dr McGrath says "They felt a greater sense of freedom, confidence and happiness, far less worry and stress than when they first started the program and reported feeling brave and proud of their achievements." Dr McGrath says the study highlights the importance of supporting positive mental health initiatives from childhood to ensure lifelong societal and economic benefits. "The early and middle years of childhood are pivotal for positive cognitive development throughout life, resulting in healthier societies," Dr McGrath says. "Healthier societies can mean a reduction in lifestyle-related illnesses and can potentially reduce our reliance on healthcare resources. Furthermore, healthier societies have been shown to be more economically productive. "Given that about half of all serious mental health issues in adulthood begin before the age of 14, we should be considering more initiatives that focus on this younger age bracket. "Without doubt, the economic cost of mental illness in Australia is high - statistics show that it's equivalent to around four per cent of GDP or about $4000 for every tax payer each year. "If we want to address these issues, we need to start exploring the value and contribution of unique programs - like circus skills - so that we can ensure happier children now, and healthier adults and communities in the future." ### Notes to editors: Quotes from children participating in the Tweenz program: "Circus is like happy juice...it releases happiness into your blood and that makes you happy." - Harry. "Circus takes your mind off some things...sad things...it's my weekly pick-up and sort of an escape." - Jennifer. "Because you can do more things you feel like you have a purpose in life." - Terry. "Circus helps with my self-esteem." - Christina. "There's no pressure to get everything right, it's more of a free environment." - Tom Video footage available Media: Annabel Mansfield: office +61 8 8302 0351 | mobile: +61 417 717 504 email: Annabel.Mansfield@unisa.edu.au Lead Researcher: Dr Richard McGrath office: +61 8 8302 2505| email: Richard.McGrath@unisa.edu.au A new study funded by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and the Navy finds that veterans and service members with a history of combat-related mild traumatic brain injury--compared with those in a control group--have much higher levels of abnormally fast brain waves in a region that plays a key role in consciousness. The findings appeared in the journal Cerebral Cortex in May 2019. Using a neuroimaging process called MEG, the researchers concluded that the fast, or high-frequency, gamma waves were "markedly elevated" in two of the four lobes of the cerebral cortex: the pre-frontal and posterior parietal lobes. Those two lobes affect reasoning, organization, planning, execution, attention, and problem-solving. Dr. Mingxiong Huang, a physicist at the VA San Diego Healthcare System, led the study. He's done a series of papers on brain activity in relation to mild TBI and PTSD and is one of VA's leading investigators using MEG. The neuroimaging tool can detect abnormal waves in specific areas of the brain. MEG stands for magnetoencephalography. A MEG scanner records magnetic fields created by electrical currents in the brain. Huang says the abnormally fast gamma waves could cause poorer cognitive functioning. "The widespread nature and magnitude of the elevated gamma activity in the mild TBI participants was beyond our original expectations," he says. "We expected more subtle elevation. The marked elevation suggests there is widespread and pronounced injury in neurons of the central nervous system that play a key role in brain circuitry and activity. This finding offers a new and exciting tool for directly assessing the dysfunctional neurons in people with mild TBI and may explain many of their clinical symptoms and cognitive deficits." Brain waves are produced by masses of neurons that communicate with each other. Gamma waves are the fastest of brain waves and relate to the simultaneous processing of information from different brain areas. Gamma waves measure between 30 and 80 hertz, with approximately 40 hertz being typical in humans. Hertz, or Hz, is the metric unit of frequency and equals one cycle per second. Beta waves dominate one's waking state of consciousness, when attention is directed toward cognitive tasks. Alpha waves are present during quietly flowing thoughts. Theta waves occur most often in sleep when one is dreaming. Finally, delta waves are slow brain waves that are generated in deep meditation and dreamless sleep. Huang was also surprised that brain wave activity was lower in the participants with mild TBI in the ventromedial prefrontal cortex, which is central to the pathology of mood and anxiety disorders. That region is also critical for controlling activity in the amygdala, which processes such emotions as fear, anxiety, and aggression. "We expected to instead see hyperactivity in the ventromedial prefrontal cortex of those with mild TBI," says Huang, who is also a professor in the department of radiology at the University of California San Diego (UCSD). "This indicates that injury to neurons that transmit impulses between other neurons can also lead to decreases in spontaneous activity in brain waves. This suggests that there were severe injuries to the ventromedial prefrontal cortex." This is the first study, Huang says, to show that mild combat-related head injuries are likely to result in abnormally high levels of gamma waves in people with chronic mild TBI. The reduced brain activity in the ventromedial prefrontal cortex is also a new finding, he says. Traumatic brain injury is the signature injury from the post-9-11 conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan. The Department of Defense and the Defense and Veterans Brain Injury Center estimate that 22% of combat casualties from Iraq and Afghanistan involve TBIs, most of which are mild in severity. Mild TBIs are also called concussions. TBI symptoms include headaches, irritability, sleep disorders, memory lapses, slower thinking, and depression. In recent years, Huang and other MEG researchers have learned that the brains of people with mild TBI generate abnormal slow waves. His latest study expands the knowledge of abnormality to fast gamma waves in people with mild TBI. MEG imaging is a promising marker for detecting specific regions of the brain that are impaired by a mild TBI, with an 85% accuracy rate. More conventional imaging tools, such as a CT scan or structural MRI, have an accuracy rate of only about 5% in detecting mild TBI. "This makes MEG a good functional imaging technique not only for assisting in the diagnosis of mild TBI, but also for assessing the efficiency of mild TBI treatments, such as drugs," Huang says. However, MEG-based studies are rare, most likely because only 20 to 30 MEG scanners are available in the United States. In addition to VA San Diego, VA medical centers in Minneapolis, Albuquerque, Boston, Seattle, Philadelphia, and San Francisco have performed MEG research. Recent animal studies have showed that injury to neurons that play a key role in brain circuitry and activity led to abnormal increases in fast brain waves. Thus, Huang and his team believed that by detecting spontaneous hyperactivity in fast brain waves, they could assess the level of injury to brain circuitry. The latter may be directly related to cognitive deficits, he notes. In the study, 25 of the participants were active-duty military or veterans who had fought in Iraq or Afghanistan. They had all sustained at least one mild TBI that resulted in persistent post-concussive symptoms for an average of 20 months. The control group included 35 people with combat experience but with no notable history of concussions. All of the participants were in a resting state during the MEG recordings, which were conducted at UCSD. At the same time, the scientists made major efforts to ensure that the participants were alert. Being drowsy, Huang says, could reduce the high frequency gamma activity and thus lower the sensitivity of the MEG measurements. Huang and his colleagues plan to expand this research from a group comparison to a single-subject-based approach. That will call for using resting-state MEG procedures to investigate where the abnormal gamma waves emanate from in each person with mild TBI. For a person with mild TBI, the abnormal waves may be from just one or two lobes in the cerebral cortex, not from all four, he says. "To achieve this, we'll need to study more people in both the mild TBI and healthy control groups," he says. The findings from his most recent study, he says, can be used to help with brain stimulation techniques as a therapy for mild TBI, such as transcranial electrical stimulation (TES) and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). Results from the study suggest that effective targets for TES and TMS treatments are likely to be the pre-frontal cortex and posterior parietal cortex. Huang and his team are currently working with two TES companies to gain approval of their brain stimulation instruments by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Dr. David Cifu is the principal investigator at the Chronic Effects of Neurotrauma Consortium, a joint project of VA and the Department of Defense that researches the impact of combat blasts on the human brain. He believes Huang's findings should be further explored over a long period with many participants. "Dr. Huang and his research group have a history of identifying reasons for persistent symptoms from combat-associated concussions," Cifu says. "Their most recent study sheds light on another potential cause for increased resting-state gamma activity. While several factors in both the control and concussed groups need to be more fully evaluated, such as the lifetime history of concussions, substance or alcohol use, and mental illness, this is an important observation that should be assessed in a large, longitudinal cohort using a more rigorous approach. That includes blinding the MEG analyzers to the participants' histories and repeating the MEG procedure at least two times, three to six months apart. I look forward to seeing the findings from this work." ### UPDATE: The Pound to Canadian Dollar exchange rates remain subdued through Thursday's session with the cross ranging between CA$1.7485 to CA$1.757. At the time of writing, Sterling was last seen trading at CA$1.74980. While the Canadian Dollar is more vulnerable to risk-related movements, Brexit uncertainty has largely offset negative sentiment, leaving the cross to Loonie struggling to find direction. The price of Crude, a key factor for the oil-coupled CAD, managed to recover the $70 per barrel level, with BCOUSD last seen at $71.084p/b. Focus for Friday's session will be split between global and geopolitical developments and high impact domestic data. US-China trade talks, resuming on Friday despite the US administrations decision to go ahead with tariff hikes on $200B of Chinese good, will be a key focus with a further deterioration in sentiment likely to cap Loonie upside while for the GBP, Brexit remains of crucial importance as pessimism continues to mount over cross-party Brexit deal talks. Domestically, Q1 GDP growth figures for the UK are due with analysts forecasting quarterly growth to the tune of 0.5%. "Following relatively lacklustre growth in Q4 of last year, strong outturns for monthly GDP for January and February mean the pace of growth is likely to have risen in the first quarter. We expect a rise of 0.5%q/q (in line with the BoEs projection)," wrote Lloyds Commercial Banking strategist, Gajan Mahadevan . Meanwhile Canadian labour market statistics are also due with consensus calling for an 11.7k rise in employment and a static (5.8%) unemployment release Pound Sterling Canadian Dollar (GBP/CAD) Exchange Rate Continues to Fall from Weekend Highs Despite a lack of strong recent support in the Canadian Dollar, as well as fresh concerns about US-China trade tensions, the British Pound to Canadian Dollar (GBP/CAD) exchange rate has been tumbling all week so far. While the downtrend has slowed, the Canadian Dollar has so far held most of this weeks gains despite the market aversion to trade-correlated currencies. While risk-off movement is limiting GBP/CADs losses this week, the pair is still on track to shed around half of last weeks impressive gains from 1.7390 to 1.7685. Since briefly touching on a fresh monthly high of 1.7723 on Monday, GBP/CAD has been tumbling and has already shed over two cents. At the time of writing today, GBP/CAD was trending closer to the level of 1.7495. Pound (GBP) Exchange Rates Remain Unappealing as Brexit Negotiations Seen near Collapse Most of the Pounds gains in recent weeks had been due entirely to hopes that the UK government would be able to reach a compromise Brexit deal with the opposition Labour Party. However, those hopes have quickly unravelled this week and as a result the Pounds appeal has quickly faded too. Investors are now selling the Pound on speculation that there will be no major progress in the Brexit process for quite some time to come. Britains ruling Conservative Party confirmed that Britain would be taking part in this months EU elections, and as a result analysts expect the opposition Labour Party will begin to distance itself more from the talks in favour of campaigning for the election. With talks now expected to fail, analysts are more confident that there will be months of uncertainty in both domestic politics and the Brexit process. UK Prime Minister Theresa May remains under pressure to resign as well, and this is also keeping pressure on the Pound. According to Marshall Gittler, Analyst at ACLS Global: Since most of her (May's) likely replacements are even more hard-core `Leave' supporters than she is, this raises the possibility of a hard Brexit, i.e. crashing out with no agreement at all, Canadian Dollar (CAD) Exchange Rates Sturdy despite Fresh US-China Trade Tensions The Canadian Dollar continued to see fairly sturdy performance today, despite global markets becoming hesitant to take investments correlated to risk or trade. As Canada is a very trade-heavy economy, the Canadian Dollars movement is heavily correlated to market trade sentiment. With tensions between the US and China surging today, there is plenty of pressure keeping the Canadian Dollar from capitalising on the Pounds latest weakness. Despite this though, the Canadian Dollar has been able to hold its ground. This is because recent Canadian data has been fairly supportive, and recent oil price strength has buoyed the Canadian Dollar as well. Oil is Canadas most lucrative commodity, so a surge in oil prices yesterday has kept the oil-correlated Canadian Dollar from weakening. GBP/CAD Exchange Rate Forecast: Canadian Job Market Data Could Shift Movement The Pound to Canadian Dollar exchange rate is on track to have seen significant losses this week, but the pair could be in for a late-week shift in movement depending on tomorrows key Canadian data. Fridays American session will see the publication of Canadas April job market report. The data is expected to show that a number of new jobs were made in April, but if the data falls short of expectations investors could become more concerned about Canadas economic health. Weaker data would make it easier for GBP/CAD to avoid further losses and maybe even edge higher again before markets close for the week, though Brexit and UK political jitters are likely to keep the pair from gaining too far. Stronger data, on the other hand, could make investors more confident about the Bank of Canadas (BoC) recent optimistic tone, and lead to even further GBP/CAD losses. Pound investors will be focused on Brexit developments moreso than tomorrows upcoming UK data, and the Pound to Canadian Dollar exchange rate could also be influenced by any US-China trade developments. CONTACT: Pamela D. Wilson 888-393-7754 Email: Inquiry_For_Pamela@pameladwilson.com Golden, Colorado May 9, 2019 10 Reasons (Some Humorous and Not So Humorous) Why Caregiving Can Drive You Crazy Caregiving isn't a job that one applies for it's a job that just happens. On the job training can feel like being on a roller coaster with all of the ups and downs especially when caregivers have no idea of the responsibilities and no life experience. Situations and care needs change overnight. Good news and bad news arrives on the same day. It's no wonder that caregivers and aging parents or spouses become burned out and emotionally drained by caregiving. Pamela D. Wilson, MS, BS/BA, NCG, CSA is a national caregiving expert with more than 20+ years of experience. Her mission is to support caregivers and aging adults in navigating all of the changes that result from needing care and becoming a caregiver. Caregiving is a family issue that is rarely discussed until the need. Online support groups and courses for caregivers and aging adults are available on her website. By being proactive and participating in caregiving support groups and courses, caregiving can become easier and less of a struggle. Pamela also believes that humor and laughter belong in caregiving because when situations look bleak and hope may be lost, caregiving can drive one crazy. Laughter, even about situations gone wrong, can help caregivers regain the perspective that even when things go wrong, solutions exist. Here are 10 Reasons (Some Humorous and No So Humorous) Why Caregiving Can Drive You Crazy 1 Caregivers have to do things never before imagined like change Depends, clean catheter bags, or bathe an aging parent. What son every thought he would have to talk to mom about being incontinent and making sure that she cleans "down there" to avoid urinary tract infections. 2 Family disagreements over who will be the caregiver and making the right caregiving decisions can turn into unexpected battles. Brothers and sisters who never lift a finger to help are really good at telling the sibling who does all the work what to do. When help is requested the same brothers and sisters quickly run the opposite direction because while they're great at giving advice, they're bad about taking their own advice. 3 Aging parents feel a loss of independence and struggle to retain some sense of control over a life that becomes more narrow with time. Friends pass away, driving stops, and health declines. Isolation results in loneliness and depression. At the time of life where retirement should be golden, sometimes life turns out to be filled with grief and loss. 4 The health care system doesn't speak the same language Few explanations occur about the consequences and options of treating or not treating chronic disease. Medical appointments last 15 minutes. Prescriptions are written with no explanation. When caregivers and aging adults don't understand information or are fearful of asking questions care situations get worse instead of better. Frustrations are on the rise and distrust in the system happens. 5 The health of aging parents and spouses keeps declining. Uncertainty exists about what to do about caregiving situations. Where is the manual that tells caregivers what to do in this and all caregiving situations? Don't be shocked when the health care system tells you that being old means you may not get all the care that you want, especially if you have a diagnosis of dementia. 6 Caregivers give up social activities and friends in favor of time spent in caregiving activities. Life becomes imbalanced like an uneven teeter-totter with the weight of caregiving on one side. Caregivers feel like their lives are on hold and everything is up in the air because of caregiving responsibilities. 7 Because adult children caregivers are stretched for time, it feels easier to take control of the situation by telling aging parents and loved ones what they must do. Note to self: this usually does not work out the way that one thinks. Parents rebel. No one wants to be told what to do including aging adults and their caregivers. 8 The shock that Medicare doesn't pay for everything. Who thought families would have to pay for in-home caregivers and all of the costs that insurance doesn't reimburse. By not talking about caregiving and aging, we dig our heads in the sand, hoping that it will never happen. Surprise caregiving and needing care happen to us all. 9 No one told me caregiving or aging would be like this. Of course not it's just like no one tells you how having children will drastically change your life. Or that getting your tonsils out really doesn't mean that you can eat all the ice cream you want. It may be better not to know how life will change overnight so that one does not fret about the future. 10 Caregiving is hard and sometimes thankless work. Tasks and responsibilities increase with time. Caregivers want to do it all. This desire to "be everything" results in physical health declines and emotional stress. Asking for help is a solution that many caregivers fail to see as an option not until a disaster strikes maybe multiple times do caregivers get help because of the realization that "being everything" doesn't turn out the way one expects. -30- Thursday, May 9, 2019 Nature of Trump Trump is a conman and promoter extraordinaire. Having set the American record for tax losses from 1985-1994 at $1.17 Billion he is obviously not a great businessman or entrepreneur, with his success ensured with $400 million from his dad (in today's dollars). He is probably not a Billionaire either. His documented 10,000 lies in office show that he repeats a lie until is accepted as fact by the following that he started with thanks to his long running show "The Apprentice". He admires and believes Putin over his own 17 intelligence agencies making him either an unwitting or witting asset of the former KGB chief, far beyond the useful idiot stage of some of his entourage. He admires other dictators around the world and disparages democratic leaders around the world, preferring the strongman bully over the weak. Having laundered Russian money through the sale of 600 condos (at a guess of $250,000 each that would be about $150 million dollars) and with the prospect of $300 million from a Trump Tower in Moscow, he is heavily financially ingratiated to the Russians. Russian President Putin is the leader of the Russian kleptocrats known as oligarchs. Here are a few of Trump's favorite tools, with the number of Dr. Lawrence Britt's list of fascist characteristics in parenthesis after each of the main tools. Nationalism (1), National Security (7), Militarism (4), Sexism (5), Crime and Punishment (12) and Fraudulent Elections (14) are all aspects of fascism in the Trump playbook. Control of Mass Media (#6) Thomas Jefferson said that he would rather have a free press than free elections, because with a free press one could gain elections, but without a free press elections are meaningless. As a master manipulator Trump uses his direct connection to 24 million Twitter followers and 16 million Facebook followers to reeducate his base and then uses that base to control the Republicans in congress who do not want to be "primary-ed" out of office. Personal loyalty is his god, above all else. Fox News is willing to play along and be the state media of the dictator. Trump uses the common dictator's tactic of calling news he doesn't like "fake news" and then openly lying with some whopper that paints him in a good light. Distain for Constitutional Law (not listed) In a monarchy, the king is law. In a constitutional democracy, the law is king. No one is above the law, but thanks to endless branding in his tweets and supported by Fox News, Trump negatively brands anyone who dares to oppose him and rewards those who support him. He has called the Mueller probe a witch hunt at least 170 times. He now has the whole Republican establishment behind him starting with Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell and Senate Judiciary Chair Lindsey Graham, hence he is determined to be "above the law". Over 900 former prosecutors of both parties have claimed that the 10 or so instances of obstruction of justice in the Mueller Report would be charged against Trump if he were not a president. He has repeatedly downgraded the judiciary, the FBI, Robert Mueller, and the CIA. Now he is stonewalling 81 subpoenas and any testimony at all. Scapegoats and Enemies as a Unifying Cause (#3) Trump's first campaign pledge was to build a wall against Mexican immigrants who he claimed were criminals, and one of his first acts in office was to try and ban Muslims from coming to America. Then there was Charlottesville Virginia where Trump tried to exonerate Nazi's and their protesters as "nice people on both sides". White nationalists have openly embraced Trump as one of their own. Rampant Cronyism and Corruption (#13) Campaigning against the "swamp" in Washington DC Trump has set a modern record for corrupt and indicted appointees to his cabinet, compared to none of that kind for Obama. After refusing to divest himself of his holdings, he has welcomed things like the Saudi's booking over a thousand hotel nights in his Trump hotel near the White House. His inauguration also lavishly paid his hotel for meals and stays for various guests. He even joined in a Saudi blockade of Dubai until they relented and granted a mortgage for his son in law's building and main asset at 666 5th Ave. in New York. China gave financing for a Trump project in Indonesia and got favorable treatment for a Chinese company affected by tariffs. Putin's Apprentice (not listed) The secrecy around his meetings with Putin is such that he asked for the translator's notes and promptly destroyed them after one meeting. Helsinki was a disaster where he stood side by side with Putin and contradicted the 17 US intelligence agencies and the Mueller 31 Russian indictments openly doubting that the Russians interfered with the 2016 election. After firing Comey, he met alone with the Russians in the Oval Office and their transcript is the record of his boasting that the Russian hoax was behind him. He is grateful to Putin for putting him in office, and Manafort gave the Russians 75 pages of campaign information to guide them in their targeting along with the target states of Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, and Pennsylvania. Only Wisconsin and Pennsylvania were targeted on the gun issue according to Young Mie Kim of UW Madison journalism school. Those two states were heavily saturated with ads more than any other states. The social media of the 73 Russian sites combined with 200 other independent sites and super Pac sites often posted the same exact material at the same exact time, so there was coordination between Trump allies and the Russians that Mueller failed to pick up on. One book has already come out alleging that Trump is Putin's Apprentice and freeing Russian Oligarch Deripaska from sanctions is just one of many strange pro-Russian acts by Trump and he never says anything bad about Putin personally. This when Trump castigates nearly everyone else around him, friend or foe, at some time or other. Command Interference (not listed) Abuse of power includes examples of what the military calls "command interference" when an investigation is pressured into a result higher ups in the chain of command want. Examples include the anger of Trump when he fired Comey that acting FBI director McCabe let Comey return to Washington DC on a government plane. Trump wanted to strand Comey in California and force him to return on commercial aircraft after being fired. Another example includes the haste to fire McCabe 48 hours before he would have been vested in his pension, with the command interference influencing the investigation that claimed McCabe had acted with "less than full candor" about a call to the media he did as part of his job. McCabe claims he was confused by the question and came back immediately with a clarification that would have exonerated him. Another example of command interference is making Rosenstein agree to Barr's weird interpretation of how a president can't be guilty of obstruction of justice for performing a constitutional act with corrupt purpose. Barr may have ended the Mueller probe before it could fully and properly finish to avoid looking into the counterintelligence part of the probe, which is not in the Mueller Report. Dear Future US President Letter: https://www.academia.edu/32905059/DEAR_FUTURE_US_PRESIDENT_Spring_2016_3_pages Please cite this work as follows: Reuschlein, Robert. (2019, May 9), "Dictatorship Playbook Trump" Madison, WI, Real Economy Institute. Retrieved from: https://www.expertclick.com/NewsRelease/Dictatorship-Playbook-Trump,2019180677.aspx Dr. Peace, Professor Robert Reuschlein, Real Economy Institute, Nominated Vetted 2016 (2 Web Looks), Given Odds 2017 (3 Web Looks), Strongly Considered 2018 (48 Web Looks, one million words) for Nobel Peace Prize, a favorite in 2019 (double pace of last year 52 in 7 months) for Nobel Peace Prize to be announced Friday October 4th, 2019. Contact: bobreuschlein@gmail.com, Info: www.realeconomy.com Thursday, May 9, 2019 Lola, the Albuquerque Death Cafe mascot The objective of the Death Cafe is to increase awareness of death with a view to helping people make the most of their (finite) lives. Its an interesting, unstructured conversation with no specific agenda. The ABQ Death Cafe offers a relaxed, confidential and safe setting to discuss death, drink tea (or your favorite beverage) and eat delicious cake or cookies. We also provide options for those avoiding gluten and added sugar. The next Albuquerque Death Cafe will take place on Sunday, May 19, 2019 from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. We meet in the Fifth Floor Lounge at Manzano del Sol Village, 5201 Roma NE, Albuquerque, NM. The building is located just south of Lomas Blvd. and just west of San Mateo Blvd. As always, refreshments will be provided. The event is free and donations are welcome. Send a note to Gail [at] AGoodGoodbye.com to RSVP. The Death Cafe concept was started in the United Kingdom by Jon Underwood. He was influenced by the ideas of Swiss sociologist Bernard Crettaz, who started holding Cafe Mortel events in France and Switzerland. For more information about Death Cafes, visit this page at AGoodGoodbye.com or visit www.DeathCafe.com. Gail Rubin, CT, The Doyenne of Death Your Death Cafe Host Gail Rubin, Certified Thanatologist, hosts the Albuquerque Death Cafe. She is a pioneering death educator. Rubin is a public speaker, a published author of three books, host of a TV interview series and podcast, a blogger, a funeral industry trade journalist, a Certified Funeral Celebrant, and an innovator in the funeral business. She created a conversation-starting game called The Newly-Dead Game, introduced the Death Cafe movement in the United States, and held the first Before I Die Festival west of the Mississippi in 2017. Albuquerque Business First named her one of their 2019 Women of Influence. Learn more about Gail and the Before I Die New Mexico Festival here. Share this: San Antonios grip on tradition is more like an unbreakable bond. Take Shypoke Eggs, those trompe loeil nachos with an uncanny resemblance to fried eggs. They had their run at Little Hipps burger joint for 42 years, from 1960 to 2002. Just a year after Little Hipps shut down, Armadillos Texas Style Burgers moved into that spot on McCullough Avenue and resurrected those Shypoke Eggs as Armadillo Eggs. San Antonio has made these nacho eggs a legend, and an annual tradition at Fiestas A Night in Old San Antonio. But even though Armadillos conjures all the roadhouse charm of Little Hipps, it doesnt capture the burgered-out bliss that makes a burger joint a legend. On ExpressNews.com: 52 Weeks of Burgers: Freiheit Country Store Best burger: Chalky picnic-style buns and pale beef patties that seemed more like they were steamed than grilled on a hot flat-top arent a promising foundation for legacy-level burgers. It took mushrooms and Swiss cheese ($7.50 for half-pound) to make the best of a mediocre sampling of burgers at Armadillos. Other burgers: Burgers arrive undressed at Armadillos, with a DIY kit of mayo, mustard and ketchup. While I appreciate their faith in my burger assembly skills, Id rather leave it in the hands of professionals. Armadillos Texas Style Burgers Rating: Once was enough Locations: 1423 McCullough Ave., 210-226-7556, armadilloburger.com. Also at 2619 Southeast Military Drive, 210-617-7797. Hours: 10:30 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday-Thursday; 10:30 a.m.-10 p.m. Friday; 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Saturday See More Collapse And the basic bacon cheeseburger ($8.35 for half-pound) could have used some professional help to overcome that haggard beef patty. I expected a big flavor payoff from the Fiesta Burger ($7.50 for half-pound), loaded with refried beans, fried tortilla chips, pico de gallo and cheddar cheese. But it fell flat. Fried sides: Starting at 99 cents for a small order, Armadillos french fries brought a charming irregularity and stout skin-on starchiness at a solid value. Sweet potato fries ($3.45 for medium) glowed like campfire embers with an almost maple afterglow. Shaggy onion rings ($3.95 for medium) lost their crunch in minutes, but fried pickles ($4.99 for medium) brought silver dollar-size satisfaction with consistent breading and a nice crackling twang. On ExpressNews.com: Review: San Antonio sandwich shop Ro-Ho Pork & Bread turns tortas ahogadas into high art Mavericks: The best sandwich at Armadillos isnt a burger. Its a chicken-fried steak sandwich ($7.95) with a thick, crunchy armor of breading over pounded beefsteak a steak so big it overlapped the bun like love handles at the beach. With a perfect tan. And no discussion of Armadillos happens without Armadillo Eggs. These nachos with white and yellow cheese on freshly fried tostadas offered a nice bite of nostalgia for $4.95. Mike Sutter is a food and drink reporter and restaurant critic in the San Antonio and Bexar County area. Read him on our free site, mySA.com, and on our subscriber site, ExpressNews.com. | msutter@express-news.net | Twitter: @fedmanwalking Note: This is a full Taste Test review, with a star rating based on multiple visits. On a Saturday night at SoLuna, Chispa margaritas are lined up four deep on the back bar, and the bartenders still shaking them up as fast as he can to keep up. The birthday party in a side room drowns out even the sound of the fountain on the palm-filled patio with the crowds full-buzz cacophony of a weekend wind-down. Order tacos and margaritas and queso and go with the flow, and a cocktail party is all SoLuna might ever be. And thats enough. But dig deeper into the mix of coastal and interior Mexican food and Tex-Mex, and SoLunas much more. Its a study of grilling, saucing and spicing executed in perpetual fast-forward mode. Wearing a party hat. SoLuna brought style to Enchiladas MiraSol, a sampler plate that united border and interior influences with a chicken enchilada in tangy green sauce, an enchilada antigua filled with potato and glowing with chile ancho oil and a chicken mole enchilada that first sparked with flinty dried chile heat, and mellowing to aromatic sweetness. Squash and corn laid a strong foundation in calabacita con carne de puerco for braised pork in a thick tomato and chile base, a preparation at home in any Mexican kitchen. SoLuna * 7959 Broadway, 210-930-8070, solunasa.com Quick bite: Interior Mexican and Tex-Mex destination with an active bar and patio scene Hit: Enchiladas MiraSol, cabrito tacos, huachinango al ajillo Miss: Ceviche, lobster enchiladas, Botana Mar y Sol platter Hours: 11:30 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday; 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m. Tuesday-Friday; 8 a.m.-11 p.m. Saturday; 8 a.m.-9 p.m. Sunday Price range: Appetizers, $6.50-$27; soups and salads, $5.95-$18.95; entrees, $10.95-$30; desserts, $7-$8 Alcohol: Cocktails, beer and wine **** Superior. Can compete nationally. *** Excellent. One of the best restaurants in the city. ** Very good. A standout restaurant of its kind. * Good. A restaurant that we recommend. (no stars) We cannot recommend this restaurant at this time. Express-News dining critics pay for all meals. See More Collapse On ExpressNews.com: Review: The new El Mirasol excels at regional Mexican, Tex-Mex dishes Coastal Mexican cooking found its voice with huachinango al ajillo, a pearl-flaked snapper fillet sauteed with garlic and butter and dressed with rings of dried chile guajillo that emphasized sophistication over swagger. The same refined restraint infused chile en nogada, a poblano pepper filled with beef, pork, almonds, pomegranates and dried fruit and draped in a velvety almond cream sauce. Restraint played no part in the best cabrito tacos Ive had in San Antonio, a trio of small corn tortillas with enough fall-apart tender goat to fill another three, all of it seasoned like Sunday roast beef and just as juicy. SoLunas at home with rowdy food like that. It has to be to keep up with the nonstop margarita madness, led by the best of them all, a big and boozy shakeup called the Amor y Pasion Martini Mexicano. Its just sweet enough, with a trace of Grand Marnier liqueur and a silver lining of agave. Fans of SoLunas celebrated Chispa margarita light on the sweet, big on the tequila heat will throw stones, but to me it tasted half-finished, and it suffered the most from cheap meltaway ice that watered down drinks in record time. SoLunas nonstop train to margaritaville is fueled by one of the citys strongest salsa trios, including a tomatillo-serrano verde full of pulp and circumstance. The salsas enhance plates like Pollo Loco. How good is that grilled chicken? My guest said, If I cooked this in the backyard, Id be proud. Thats it exactly. The backyard cookout vibe rolled on with skewers of shrimp and peppers for camarones a la parrilla and with carne a la tampiquena, an impressive skirt steak seared rare with grilled onions and a chicken mole enchilada. More standouts included a mellow queso with roasted poblano chiles and handmade flour tortillas, chicken enchiladas with a lush chipotle sauce and a DIY chicken tortilla soup with sides of fried tortillas, avocado, chicharrones and queso fresco for a custom buildout. But I cant endorse the tough, gamey beef in grilled tacos Nortenos, and a plate of tough and dry tacos al pastor left the red spice at home. On ExpressNews.com: 365 Days of Tacos: Soluna And I didnt like anything I tasted on a sprawling Botana Mar y Sol appetizer platter that included tilapia and crab taquitos, a lobster quesadilla, a shrimp taco and a fish taco. In that poorly arranged scrum, they each wore a greasy overcoat of generalized fishiness. Lobster didnt work any better inside enchiladas smothered with white wine cream sauce. Too much spice, too much fuss. Leave lobster alone. The same heavy-handed approach took down a snapper ceviche that tasted more like candied shrimp cocktail than the citrus blast I want from ceviche. If SoLuna sometimes seems hard to engage on a level beyond the raucous party atmosphere, I get it. The service gets pulled in too many directions at once, its always loud, and the dining rooms are plagued with harsh lighting and a perpetual balminess from air conditioning always losing the struggle. Try anyway. Its worth the effort. Mike Sutter is a food and drink reporter and restaurant critic in the San Antonio and Bexar County area. Read him on our free site, mySA.com, and on our subscriber site, ExpressNews.com. | msutter@express-news.net | Twitter: @fedmanwalking SAN MARCOS At 6 a.m. roll call Wednesday, Judson Independent School District police officers were instructed to step up their movements at schools, after news of a school shooting in suburban Denver the day before reverberated across the country. We informed our patrol division to make sure that they were visible, out on the streets, making not only rounds but walking in and out of the schools, to just beef up security a little bit, Chief Teresa Ramon said. Officers also were reminded to be aware of suspicious objects, since apparently in Colorado, the student who took the handgun in (used) a guitar case, she said. Ramon is president of the Texas School District Police Chiefs Association and joined about three dozen other law enforcement and school officials here Wednesday for the first Central Texas meeting of a relatively new group, the Texas School Safety & Security Council. The nonprofit was launched in 2018 by PBK Architects. It includes more than 70 public school district police chiefs and has developed a list of 30 best practices for districts to consider. On ExpressNews.com: Gun debate overshadows San Antonio area school districts quiet progress on security The recommendations include installing certain physical infrastructure, such as safe rooms, 8-foot tall vertical slat wrought iron fencing and indicator locks for classroom doors, and facial recognition software for student pickup. Other suggestions were to use landscaping as a deterrent, train administrators and teachers to use tourniquets and require clear backpacks. Southwest ISD Police Chief Richard Palomo said the biggest challenge is social media, which requires frequent monitoring. When you look at case studies in school shootings, he said, a common feature is that the person told somebody, and put it on social media. We dont want that happening on our watch, he said. Asked about the line between appropriate and robust security and what might end up as a prison-like environment, several attendees said it comes down to explaining to parents why inconveniences are necessary. PBKs Ian Powell compared that conversation to the tolerable inconveniences of airports. It comes down to the culture, said Eugene Tovar, South Sans ISDs police chief. The practices are not dogmatic, Powell said, but are intended to be the starting point of discussions. For example, metal detectors may be an option, he said, but the planning has to include whos going to staff them, how theyll be training and how to deal with high traffic. On ExpressNews.com: Bexar Sheriffs Office to put reserve deputies at rural schools I think you have to be honest with parents and the community, said Sgt. Carl Montoya, a former Judson ISD superintendent who now works with the Bexar County Sheriffs Office. Issues are more prominent in a negative way, and stuff is out there occurring. What do we need to do to keep your child safe? Montoya also said increasing the number of counselors, therapists and other resources to help struggling students is key to improving school safety. Its got to be a collaboration including all stakeholders, said Tovar, including counselors, administrators and parents. Students from South San Antonio High School have called on the board of trustees at several recent school board meetings to increase the districts mental health resources. He said hes an advocate of tactical teams, made up of those stakeholders, who can proactively get resources to students in need before safety concerns arise. While conversations about school safety in Texas in recent months have been dominated by questions of whether to arm teachers as school marshals or guardians, Wednesdays meeting instead encouraged increasing police presence on campus. There was almost no discussion of arming school staff. Alan Bragg, a retired police chief who has worked in the police departments of Houston, Cy-Fair and Spring ISDs and now works with PBK, said the possible consequences of having armed employees during an active shooter situation stem from the fact that first responders dont know who the teachers are. They dont know whos carrying a weapon, he said, and if officers come around a corner and see somebody standing there with a gun, theyre going to take out the threat. Theyre going to think its a threat and may take it out. So thats our big concern. Were a huge proponent of law enforcement in schools, Bragg told the attendees, whether thats district departments or contracted services. We believe that hopefully, someday every school in every district will have an on-site officer. LTeitz@express-news.net A man accused of killing a San Antonio Police detective in 2016 lost an attempt to get out of jail during a court hearing Thursday. Judge Ron Rangel of 379th Criminal District Court ruled that Otis Tyrone McKane should be held without bond and denied his request for a personal recognizance bond, which requires no money. McKane, 33, is currently awaiting trial on one count of capital murder of a police officer, accused of shooting Detective Benjamin Marconi on Nov. 20, 2016. On ExpressNews.com: In jailhouse interview, McKane says hes been demonized During Thursdays hearing, McKanes attorneys argued that prosecutors werent ready for trial and that neither McKane nor his family could afford his original $2 million bail, which would have required a bond of $200,000. His mother, Sandra McKane, took the stand, saying that her family would only be able to scrape up a couple of thousand dollars to help him at most. When asked by a state attorney what efforts she undertook to help her son get released, the mother replied: I haven't because his bond is $2 million. The states attorneys questioned McKanes mother, making it appear that she had little details about her sons activities in the year before the alleged killing. Prosecutors argued that he shouldnt be granted bail at all. In Texas, bail is a constitutional right except in capital murder cases. State attorneys called on San Antonio police Detective Mark Duke to discuss the evidence specifically, videos that depicted the killing and a recorded interview with McKane. When McKane confessed, he said shooting someone was the only thing that would soothe his soul, according to a state attorney. Thursdays court hearing came just days after Bexar County District Attorney Joe Gonzales announced that he would seek the death penalty for McKane. When I ran for district attorney in 2018, I promised the citizens of Bexar County that I would seek the death penalty only in the worst of the worst cases, he said in the statement. The facts of this case meet that standard. On ExpressNews.com: San Antonians mourn slain San Antonio police officer Marconi, 50, was working overtime on patrol and had pulled over a motorist in front of Public Safety Headquarters around 11:45 a.m. on a Sunday. He was sitting inside his squad car when a man approached and shot him twice in the head. McKane was spotted on security camera video at the headquarters on the day of the shooting. The next day, he was spotted on video entering the Bexar County Courthouse to get married. Authorities apprehended McKane about 28 hours after the slaying. He claimed he was upset about a child custody battle and that he lashed out by killing the 20-year SAPD veteran, according to previous reports. Marina Starleaf Riker is an investigative reporter for the San Antonio Express-News with extensive experience covering affordable housing, inequality and disaster recovery. Read her on our free site, mySA.com, and on our subscriber site, ExpressNews.com. | marina.riker@express-news.net | Twitter: @MarinaStarleaf Editors note: A previous version of this story misstated where Gutierrez-Homer filed her recount request. She filed it with the city clerks office, as required. Denise Gutierrez-Homer, a candidate for the East Sides District 2 seat on San Antonio City Council, requested a recount Thursday for certain precincts after she missed a runoff by just 59 votes. Former councilman Keith Toney and Army veteran Jada Andrews-Sullivan emerged from a field of eight candidates to advance to the runoff after no candidate received the majority needed to win the race outright. Gutierrez-Homer, who came in third, filed paperwork with the city clerks office Thursday to request a recount for ballots cast at Lamar Elementary School, which accounted for 10 of the districts 82 precincts. She is also seeking a recount of mail ballots, along with provisional votes cast at Lions Field. She cited faulty election equipment as justification for the recount. On ExpressNews.com: Council races in Districts 2, 4 and 6 head to June runoff Mayor Ron Nirenberg approved the request and appointed assistant city clerk Melinda Uriegas as the recount coordinator. Teams will now tally the requested paper ballots and then move onto electronic ballots before the vote is scheduled to be canvassed next Tuesday. Gutierrez-Homers request came after unofficial results posted Saturday night on the Bexar County Election Departments website briefly went haywire, showing Gutierrez-Homer with more than 33,000 votes, according to Gina Castaneda, the candidates campaign manager. When the results were corrected, Gutierrez-Homer missed the runoff by just 59 votes. Castaneda said she went to the elections office late Saturday night to look into the issue. Bexar County Elections Administrator Jacque Callanen said the error was due to one faulty chip, and officials quickly caught and corrected it. One of her campaign workers came in very late after we posted that crazy-looking number, Callanen said, referring to the figure quoted by Castaneda. We identified what machine those numbers came from. We had to bring that unit in from the field and work diligently to get the correct votes of off that. Callanen said the voting machine itself wasnt corrupted. When people cast a vote, its recorded in three different ways she said. They were able to retrieve the accurate count from one of the back-up mechanisms, she said. The final vote is accurate, Callanen said. On ExpressNews.com: Eight vie for open seat in San Antonio's City Council District 2 Toney finished first with 1,456 votes (26.93 percent). Andrews-Sullivan narrowly beat out Gutierrez-Homer for the second spot in the runoff, 1,157 votes to 1,098. Andrews-Sullivan said Thursday she has no hard feelings or ill will toward Gutierrez-Homer for pursuing the recount, but she is confident it wont change the result. I know shes just doing her diligent duty to make sure everybodys vote was counted properly, Andrews-Sullivan said. As we know, there was a glitch Saturday night... When you see something like that, you step up and do your civic duty. Thats what shes doing. Andrews-Sullivan said she was focused on her runoff campaign. We have to stay the course and run the race, so thats what were paying attention to, she said. The ten precincts Gutierrez-Homer is challenging accounted for 295 votes, according to data released earlier this week by the elections office. Andrews-Sullivan received 128 of them, Gutierrez-Homer 108, and Toney 59. One of the precincts is in District 1. Election experts and campaign consultants have said recount efforts rarely change outcomes in San Antonio because its voting machines dont create a paper record of each vote. When the counting teams tally the electronic votes, they will use the same print-outs from the machines. They will just tally the numbers by hand instead of using a software program. On ExpressNews.com: San Antonios new voting system could be up and running by November Candidates who request recounts have to pay for the efforts themselves. Gutierrez-Homer paid the $1,100 cost when she filed her complaint Thursday, city officials said. District 2 covers most of San Antonios East Side, beginning at Interstate-37. Art Hall was appointed to the seat earlier this year after former Councilman William Cruz Shaw resigned to become an associate judge. Hall did not seek election, resulting in one of San Antonios three open seats. All three are slated for runoffs June 8, along with the mayors race. Staff writer Brian Chasnoff contributed to this report. Dylan McGuinness covers City Hall and local politics in San Antonio. Read him on our free site, mySA.com, and on our subscriber site, ExpressNews.com. | dylan.mcguinness@express-news.net | Twitter: @DylMcGuinness A fungus that kills hibernating bats has spread and is now detected in 21 Texas counties, including Bexar, and Comal Countys Bracken Cave, which houses the worlds largest colony of Mexican free-tailed bats. Thats double what it was in previous years, said Jonah Evans, the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department state mammalogist. The fungus causes whats known as white nose syndrome and has been deadly for millions of bats in eastern parts of the U.S., where some species have been decimated. Infected bats feel discomfort that repeatedly awakens them from hibernation, leading them to burn through their fat stores and become dehydrated. Michael Fisher The good news for Mexican free-tailed bats is they dont hibernate, a key contributor to the deaths of other species of bats exposed to the fungus. The expectation is that (free-tailed bats) will be OK, Evans said. They will live with the fungus and it probably wont be detrimental. The bad news is that scientists worry that the migrating free-tailed bats could carry the fungus farther south. The species is found deep in the Southern Hemisphere, in Argentina and Chile, Evans said. Other bat species cave myotis and tri-colored bats hibernate and could be killed by the fungus. On ExpressNews.com: Fungus discovery on Mexican free-tailed bats shocks biologists Known scientifically as Pseudogymnoascus destructans, the fungus was first detected in Texas in 2017 at sites in six Panhandle counties. A year later, that number grew to 10. Scientists added another 11 counties to the list this year, as far south as Frio and Victoria counties. Theres yet to be a case of white-nose syndrome in Texas, an unsurprising fact for those who study it. We have so far only detected the fungus. We have not so far detected any signs of the disease caused by the fungus, Evans said. It usually takes a few years after the fungus arrives for the fungal load to reach a high enough level for it to start causing disease in bats. It appears both on bats and in caves, he said, and isnt harmful to other animals or humans. The fungus likely made its way to the U.S. from Europe or Asia, where bats seem to be immune to it, he said, suggesting that theyve adapted to coexist with the fungus. Thats not something that will happen in the U.S. anytime soon. The adaptation takes centuries to occur, Evans said. On ExpressNews.com: Bat-killing fungus getting closer to Texas A spokesman for Bat Conservation International, which manages Bracken Cave, said in an email that the organization has led surveillance and response to the fungal invasion in Texas for nearly a decade well before the fungus, referred to as Pd by those who work with it, was detected in the state. The group has implemented a field trial for an experimental treatment to prevent proliferation of the fungus, Javier Folgar said. Since 2009, BCI has implemented protective measures at Bracken Cave to reduce risk of Pd invasion, including decontamination protocols and stopping all guano harvesting activities at the cave, he said. BCI works with multiple academic partners and with TPWD to respond in real-time to identify critical gaps and try new approaches to protect bats from WNS. The nonprofit is targeting the fungus across North America, with projects in seven states and in Canada, Folgar said. In a news release, BCIs chief scientist said that researchers are developing long-term solutions to protect vulnerable bats. We will not back down from this threat, Winifred Frick said. Weve been anticipating this problem for more than a decade and are poised to respond with the protective measures that our bats deserve. Bats play an integral role in pest control for Texas agricultural producers. They feed on insects, protecting crops and have a $1.4 billion annual impact on the state, officials say. Josh Baugh covers environmental issues in the San Antonio and Bexar County area. Read him on our free site, mySA.com, and on our subscriber site, ExpressNews.com. | jbaugh@express-news.net | Twitter: @jbaugh Mayor Ron Nirenberg swept San Antonios urban core and performed better than expected on the East Side in building a narrow lead in Saturdays mayoral election, while challenger Greg Brockhouse carried the suburban North Side. Brockhouses edge on the North Side could bode well for his chances in the June 8 mayoral runoff. Voters in that area traditionally turn out at higher rates. Nirenberg, seeking a second term, won the first round of voting by 3.11 percentage points, but he didnt secure the majority required to avoid a runoff. A San Antonio Express-News analysis of precinct-by-precinct returns from Saturdays balloting revealed a stark contrast in the two candidates areas of strength. Neighborhoods within Loop 410 voted overwhelmingly for Nirenberg. Outside the loop, Brockhouse dominated. Both campaigns have been analyzing the numbers to inform their strategy as they prepare for the final round. Were encouraged. I think were in a position to win the runoff, said Matt Mackowiak, a consultant for the Brockhouse campaign. Greg showed broad geographic strength across the city. Brockhouse intends to stick to the same core message he used in the first phase of the campaign, in hopes of maintaining momentum. He has promised a back-to-basics government focused on property tax relief, transparency and public safety, while lambasting Nirenbergs leadership at City Hall. As he did in the first round, Brockhouse will also benefit from the backing of the police and firefighters unions, which knocked on voters doors and ran advertisements to boost his candidacy. On ExpressNews.com: After tight race, San Antonio's mayoral contenders gear up for runoff Nirenbergs campaign has a different battle plan. They will likely continue to raise questions about Brockhouses fitness for office, citing domestic violence accusations against the councilman and his work history with the unions, which have feuded with the city for years. The mayor has also pitched what he feels is a more comprehensive vision for San Antonios future. That includes far-reaching plans he initiated to tackle mass transit, climate change and affordable housing. There is a clear path to victory, said Kelton Morgan, his campaign manager. The mayor and his team know exactly what we need to do and are confident hell be victorious on June 8. Breakdown Its difficult to compare Saturdays results with the first round in the 2017 city elections because this years field didnt have a third competitive candidate. Two years ago, Manuel Medina took 15 percent of the vote, chipping away at then-Mayor Ivy Taylor and Nirenbergs numbers. This years third-place finisher, John Velasquez, had 1.61 percent. Since Nirenberg and Brockhouse gleaned nearly all the votes, strategists say Saturdays results are more comparable to the 2017 runoff. Brockhouse ran more competitively against Nirenberg than Taylor in just about every part of the city, making inroads on the North, West and South Sides. Nirenberg maintained lopsided margins this year downtown and on the near-West Side, running up a 5,441-vote lead in Districts 1 and 5 alone. He ended up leading Brockhouse by 3,165 votes overall. The mayor also flipped the East Sides District 2, which he previously lost in a landslide to Taylor, who hails from the East Side. The mayor beat Brockhouse by 358 votes there this year. He also ran ahead of Brockhouse on the Southwest and Northwest sides. But Brockhouse was able to cut into the mayors lead by carrying the North and Northeast sides. He won those by 10.6 and 9.1 points, respectively, netting 3,211 votes. That was roughly on par with Taylors margins in 2017, which Morgan claimed was a good sign for the mayor. There was not some blowout surge, Morgan said. The mayor ran as strongly in (Districts) 9 and 10 as he did two years ago. But Brockhouse was also surprisingly competitive in Nirenbergs home district on the Northwest Side. The mayor defeated him by just 5 percentage points in District 8, after carrying the district by 18 percentage points two years ago. Even in District 8, Nirenbergs margin was not that large, Mackowiak said. We found that pretty telling. Voters north of Loop 410 have a disproportionate say in the outcome of elections. They accounted for half the vote in this years mayoral race. Brockhouse also performed well in the three districts that have council races on the runoff ballot: 2, 4 and 6. That means voters there will have more incentive to turn out again in June. In the West Sides District 6, which Brockhouse represents, he won by 17 percentage points, netting more than 1,600 votes. He also narrowly flipped the Southwest Sides District 4. When I look at it district by district, all that points in Gregs favor for the runoff, said Bexar County Commissioner Kevin Wolff, a former District 9 councilman Looking ahead Theres two ways to approach a runoff strategy, according to political consultant Colin Strother: You either try to run up the score in the areas where you succeeded or you try to cut into your opponents margins elsewhere. The outcome of the runoff will depend on how the two campaigns approach that dilemma, said Strother, who worked on Taylors runoff campaign in 2017 and now consults for the fire union. Laura Barberena, a veteran Democratic strategist who worked on three successful council campaigns this year, said the council runoffs could benefit Brockhouse. Since he did well in areas that already have reasons to turn out again, he can concentrate his efforts on other parts of town. That could include the Northwest Side, where Nirenberg saw his support slide, and the East Side, which supported Taylor in the previous election. Mackowiak said Brockhouses campaign is encouraged by those trends, but it isnt taking anything for granted. Were excited about where we think the turnout will be, he said. Thats theoretical though. Ultimately, its about how much voter contact you do, what your message is. Nirenberg will have to make sure the urban core returns to vote even after its council races were settled Saturday night. And he has room to improve in his home district and the South Side. The mayor could also benefit from new voters. San Antonio has had higher turnout recently in municipal runoffs. Nirenberg can reach out to people who didnt vote in the election and impress upon them the effects the election has on their lives, Barberena said. Morgan said the campaign already knows thats the case. Obviously there will be considerably less complacency that there was in the first round, he said. We have heard that from hundreds if not thousands of people since Saturday. Electoral oddities Nirenberg and Brockhouse tied in 11 different precincts, most of which had fewer than 10 votes. But in Precinct 3023 near Country View Village on the Northwest Side the men finished even at 178 votes a piece. Much is made about San Antonios low turnout in municipal elections. That didnt change this year, with just 11.46 percent of registered voters casting a ballot. The new data shows voters did not cast a single ballot in 66 precincts across the city. The lesser-known mayoral candidates prevailed in three of the citys 562 precincts. John Velasquez, Michael Commander Idrogo and Tony Diaz each won one precinct a piece. The catch: None of those precincts had more than three votes. Dylan McGuinness covers City Hall and local politics in San Antonio. Read him on our free site, mySA.com, and on our subscriber site, ExpressNews.com. | dylan.mcguinness@express-news.net | Twitter: @DylMcGuinness The pitches arrive every week in postcards, letters, voice mails and texts. The message is always the same. Have you ever thought of selling your house? As is? OnExpressNews.com: San Antonio West Side event brings friendship, serious message Housing, legal and financial experts from the University of Texas at San Antonio and the Mexican American Unity Council on the West Side gathered recently for a community workshop to answer the questions in unison. Be wary, they said. The advice comes as the West Side braces for the latest wave of gentrification spawned by San Antonios development boom and population growth. Low-income homeowners, elected officials and neighborhood advocates arent just worried about potential cultural changes in the area, as scooters and coffeehouses begin to infiltrate. They arent necessarily against business development or the expansion of UTSAs Downtown Campus, if those changes benefit West Side residents, too, and theyre included in the conversation. Displacement is their chief concern, because on the West Side, housing means low-income housing, distressed housing and multi-generational housing. It means inter-generational poverty, and for many people, alternative affordable housing will be hard to find. In a series of workshops, MAUCs Housing Center and Roger Enriquez of UTSA have helped homeowners establish clear title to their homes, advised them on how to challenge Bexar County property appraisals to lower their taxes, and showed them how to apply for all available property tax exemptions. OnExpressNews.com: Pinatas in the Barrio helps artists on West Side of San Antonio The project was initiated by District 5 City Councilwoman Shirley Gonzales. Enriguez supervises undergraduates trained to assist homeowners. A licensed attorney, Enriquez is also associate professor and director of the Policy Studies Center at UTSAs College of Public Policy. The project has uncovered overwhelming fractionalized ownership, he says, which happens when homeowners die without wills or other documents that clearly pass title to heirs. Enriquez says state law now gives homeowners more ways to transfer such assets, including Transfer on Death Deeds that dont require a lawyer to draft. The project has helped homeowners clear titles with affidavits of heirship, gift or warranty deeds and wills all for free. More than 60 homeowners with average household annual incomes of $27,000 have preserved assets worth about $6 million, MAUC statistics show. Sixty percent of them were retired or disabled homeowners in homes with an average value of $95,000. The great majority were Mexican American, but they included African Americans, whites, Native Americans and Asians, some from other parts of the city. MAUC also has conducted workshops on home rehabilitation counseling, home-buyer education, estate planning and understanding credit, among other topics. The groups recent workshop featured realtor Rich Acosta of the nonprofit group Mi Ciudad Es Mi Casa, which offers free help to homeowners who want to protest their property appraisals. Other West Side groups have been involved in addressing the effects of gentrification. Preservation advocates long ago surfaced in the Esperanza Peace & Justice Center, which established a coalition named the Westside Preservation Alliance. Esperanza also founded a neighborhood group called Mi Barrio No Se Vende, which invites West Siders to host home-based cafecitos, or coffee klatches, to better understand what lies ahead. The groups name means My Neighborhood Isnt for Sale. West Side businessman Jaime Macias is doing his own bit. He has several properties near the West Commerce bridge and hopes West Side development will amount to more than just another taqueria or tire shop. Hes torn between wanting that development and worrying about how gentrification will affect residents. Hes the messenger behind the small billboard near the bridge. It says, Unbow Your Head. Macias says he means for West Siders to look up, because change is coming with or without our involvement, and we may not like what comes. Gov. Greg Abbott this week signed a bill into law that limits the scope of a controversial anti-Israel boycott law, just weeks after a federal judge temporarily blocked its enforcement in an ongoing First Amendment lawsuit. The 2017 law which seeks to combat the Boycotts, Divestments and Sanctions movement, an international protest over Israels treatment of Palestinians prohibits state agencies from investing in and contracting with companies that boycott Israel. It also requires anyone contracting with the state to pledge in writing that it will not boycott Israel. The changes Abbott signed into law Tuesday make it only applicable to contracts of at least $100,000 with companies with 10 or more full-time employees. Legislators who support the law have said they never intended for it to impact individuals or small businesses. Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, who had appealed the preliminary injunction to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit, did not waste time in filing a motion to dismiss the federal lawsuit brought by several Texas contractors who claimed it violated their right to free speech. In the motion filed Wednesday, Paxton argued that this legislative enactment is exactly the kind of development that the Fifth Circuit has recognized will render a case moot. ACLU of Texas spokeswoman Imelda Mejia said the agency, which is representing some of the plaintiffs in the suit, said the agency is analyzing the new law and its possible implications on our case. For subscribers: Judge temporarily blocks enforcement of Texas law banning Israel boycotts U.S. District Judge Robert Pitman on April 25 issued a preliminary injunction, saying political boycotts are protected speech and the law is likely unconstitutional as it imposes content- and viewpoint-based restrictions on that protected expression. The statute threatens to suppress unpopular ideas and manipulate the public debate through coercion rather than persuasion, Pitman wrote. This the First Amendment does not allow. Tommy Buser-Clancy, the ACLU staff attorney who argued the motion to block the law in court, said last month that changing its scope does not eliminate his constitutionality concerns. The law still discriminates against companies that engage in political consumer boycotts of Israel, which is a right protected by the First Amendment, Buser-Clancy said. An unconstitutional law cannot be salvaged merely by making it apply to fewer people. The author of the 2017 law, state Rep. Phil King, R-Weatherford, also sponsored the amended version of the law, HB 793. The concerns we've heard are from individuals or those who have small contracts, King said in a statement late Thursday. This bill addresses those issues and should resolve the litigation." Abbott did not immediately respond to requests for comment. For subscribers: Texas ban on companies that boycott Israel drives state to divest $72M Similar laws banning boycotts of Israel, touted as a way of showing solidarity with Israel, exist in 25 other states. Texas appears to be following in the footsteps of the state of Kansas as it quietly moves to tweak its law. Federal judges have struck down laws in Arizona and Kansas and upheld one in Arkansas; all are on appeal but the Kansas law. There, after the Kansas Legislature made nearly identical changes to those signed by Abbott on Tuesday, the American Civil Liberties Union, lacking an affected plaintiff, agreed to dismiss its lawsuit. Texas lawmakers are responding to last years mass shooting at Santa Fe High School by advancing bills to increase the number of armed school staff, require campus emergency response plans and provide more mental health resources to students. The most divisive proposals would increase the number of armed school marshals and remove requirements that their guns remain in storage legislation that has been passed by the Texas Senate and awaits key votes in the House. A sweeping school safety-related measure, Senate Bill 11, would require emergency response training for district staff, including substitute teachers, establish threat assessment teams to help identify potentially violent students and up the number of mental health professionals in schools. That bill, which has bipartisan support, passed out of the Senate last week and was heard in the House Public Education Committee Tuesday, though members did not take a vote. Many elements of the bill were the product of Gov. Greg Abbotts roundtable discussions with parents, students, educators, law enforcement and mental health experts on school safety last May, after a student armed with a pistol and a shotgun killed 10 people at Santa Fe high. Abbott made school safety one of his top priorities this session. No student should be afraid to go to school. No parent should be fearful when dropping their child off at school, Abbott said. We must do all we can to make our schools safer. A few parents testified against the bill Tuesday who said they worried that threat assessments would violate families privacy and unfairly flag students who simply had an outburst or a bad day. They asked lawmakers to delay a school safety bill until next session. For subscribers: Substitute teacher wounded in Santa Fe High shooting pushes for more training, resources for peers Committee chair Rep. Dan Huberty, R-Houston, scoffed at those requests, calling them alarming and insanity, and underlined the Houses support for the bill. Im just telling people in the audience were going to be passing a school safety bill, Huberty said, adding that there has been plenty of time for public comment already. He recommended that the public send any suggestions for amendments to legislators right away. Some of the most contentious discussions have centered on school marshals. The marshal program, established in 2013 after the mass shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Conn., allows districts to arm and train school employees to respond to an active shooter. Texas had less than 40 certified school marshals across more than 1,000 public school districts in early 2018. Applications rose sharply after the Santa Fe shooting and the number of school marshals is now close to 200. Marshals receive 80 hours of training, including practice in "live shooter" scenarios. State Rep. Cole Hefners House Bill 1387 would eliminate the cap on the number of marshals a district can appoint to each school. The bill passed in the House on Wednesday but not without fervent debate. Any time that we can give local school districts an extra tool in their toolbox to increase school safety, to increase the use of things that will make our kids safer, we ought to give them that freedom to do so, said Hefner, R-Mt. Pleasant. For subscribers: Santa Fe shooting prompts jump in number of Texas school marshals, who can carry guns on campus Some lawmakers, however, raised concerns that increasing the number of armed marshals in Texas schools could result in more mishandled guns on campus. State Rep. Donna Howard, D-Austin, said there have been 65 mishandled guns in schools in the last five years, including three incidents in Texas, according to the Giffords Law Center. To my knowledge, this has not happened by one of our school marshals, Hefner said. What we do know is weve had school shootings in our state and in other states, and I think this is an important tool for us to be able to defend our students. In Texas, the misplaced guns on campus belonged to a school superintendent, a police officer assigned to a high school and a principal, according to the Center. Another bill that would also eliminate the cap on the number of marshals passed the Senate in 20-10 vote on April 8 and now awaits a hearing in the House Committee on Public Education. With the end of the session less than three weeks away, lawmakers have until May 18 to pass the bill out of committee. Texas Take: Get political headlines from across the state sent directly to your inbox Senate Bill 406 by state Sen. Brian Birdwell, R-Granbury, would allow school marshals to carry a concealed handgun instead of being required to keep them locked up. That measure passed the Senate 28-3 on April 3 and has not yet passed out of the House Committee on Homeland Security and Public Safety. Hefner said his bill underscores what he sees as a general rule: the only way a school shooter has been stopped is usually with another person with a firearm. When you live in rural parts of Texas, sometimes law enforcement can be several minutes away, Hefner said. Thats why we want to have someone readily accessible and trained in responding to one of these instances, and I think this bill accomplishes that. Gun violence prevention activists say more guns is not the answer. Theres just such a recipe for all grades, K-12, of firearms dropping, of a student getting hold of them as a joke or intentionally to do harm, said Gyl Swizter, executive director of Texas Gun Sense. We need to think prevention, and we need to think other than firearms. The Associated Press contributed to this report. As the mayors race heads into a runoff, voters should notice the financial clouds looming over the city of San Antonio this election. That storm is coming regardless of the outcome between Mayor Ron Nirenberg and District 6 City Councilman Greg Brockhouse, who has yet to adequately answer questions about two alleged incidents of domestic violence and the unexplained disappearance of a 2009 police report. But the outcome of this race could have tremendous financial repercussions for the city given Brockhouses fervent support from the public safety unions, particularly the fire union, which has declared Brockhouse our own guy and is seeking a new contract. The biggest financial cloud on the horizon is a significant drop in property tax revenue for the city. State lawmakers are almost certain to cap annual property tax growth for cities and urban counties at 3.5 percent. The present cap is 8 percent. This change will provide some modest relief for homeowners, maybe a few dollars a month, but for the city, it will mean millions less for police, fire, parks and streets. For example, a 3.5 percent cap would have meant about $51 million less in revenue in 2019, according to city projections. The next cloud can be seen in legislation that would remove utility fees when telecommunications companies open up city streets. The city of San Antonio has estimated a loss of about $8 million in revenue from this legislation and there is no evidence these savings will be passed on to consumers. Together, these dynamics would put tremendous downward pressure on City Hall, and thats where the mayors race really matters. At a time when city revenues will almost certainly be tightening property tax caps are happening Nirenberg has pledged to contain public safety expenses. But Brockhouse is the candidate of choice for the public safety unions, and the lack of a fire contract is another cloud on the horizon. Prior to his election to City Council two years ago, Brockhouse did significant consulting work for the San Antonio Police Officers Association and San Antonio Professional Firefighters Association. And the unions have, in turn, gone to bat for Brockhouse in his bid for mayor. Off-duty firefighters worked polls during the general election, and the police union flooded voters mailboxes on behalf of Brockhouse. In fire union President Chris Steeles own words, the goal is to set it up to where May of 2019, we can put our own guy in the mayors office, which would be Greg Brockhouse. The goal for the fire union has always been to land a lucrative new contract. Thats the play. Bear in mind, the police union already agreed to a lucrative contract in 2016. The deal included a 3 percent lump sum bonus, a wage increase of 14 percent over four years, a shift in the evergreen clause from 10 years to eight years, and some necessary cost shifts on health care that will save taxpayers an estimated $87.5 million over the span of the contract. But Steele and company want something better. They want to manage their own health insurance at significant additional cost. And again, Brockhouse is their guy. A practical question, then, is how will Brockhouse deliver on a better contract for the fire union amid an obvious tightening of revenue? And what would that mean for the police contract? Yet another practical question is just what would Brockhouse be willing to cut if that lucrative fire union contract happens? Its not possible to take in less revenue, or even less-than expected revenue, but then spend more on public safety and also deliver more for neighborhoods. Something has to give, and not just the citys bond rating. Yet Brockhouse has championed a city property tax cut. Its all magical thinking. But magic wont make those storm clouds looming over the city disappear. If anything, it will make the wind and the rain stronger whenever it arrives. There are many issues in this campaign those police reports and what happened to remove one of them from public records, as well as that Chick-fil-A vote by council but perhaps none is as important as a practical matter of city governance as public safety spending amid a tightening budget. Keep that in mind in the runoff election. Re: Patrick says pot bill is dead in Texas Senate, Metro, May 1: The backward-thinking Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick should pick up something intelligent to read, perhaps something referencing tax revenues being generated in other 21st century states. For example, the tax revenue generated by legal pot sales in Colorado was $266 million for 2018 alone. Seems a rather modern approach to tax revenue would help Texas significantly. Oh, wait a minute, it is a Republican-led Texas, so I must be joking. Jason Chapel, Spring Branch Some need opioids Sickle cell disease is a serious medical condition that can cause excruciating pain. This pain can feel like shards of glass running through your veins. This pain can be treated with opioid medication, but due to the opioid crisis and those with SCD who often are seen as drug-seekers, sickle cell patients do not have adequate access to pain medication. I am a University of Texas school of social work graduate student doing my internship with the Sickle Cell Association of Texas Marc Thomas Foundation, and I am requesting that we Texans support HB 2576. This bill makes it easier for sickle cell survivors to get access to lifesaving pain medication. The opioid epidemic has adversely affected an underserved population, but HB 2576 is a step in the right direction. The CDC in April released clarifying guidelines for prescribing opioids to those with SCD; however, more needs to be done. Call your representatives to vote in support of HB 2576. Thank you. Tina Alexander, Austin Jail for constable Re: Family feuds with constable; At issue is fee she leveled for park security, front page, May 1: Why is Constable Michelle Barrientes Vela not in jail? She should return the money she got from parkgoers. How dare she use her badge to take advantage of Jesus Reyes and she wants to be sheriff? Its very doubtful that would happen after abusing her power like that. County officials need to step up. Roland Perez GREENWICH A recent cyber-breach at the Greenwich Public Schools was significant and presents a clear and present danger to the town, a member of the Board of Estimate and Taxation warned Thursday morning. I know details about this breach, board member Tony Turner said at a meeting of the BETs Audit Committee. Once you hear the facts and circumstances, I think you might have a real view of where we are on cybersecurity. Little information has been released about the breach. But Greenwich Police Lt. John Slusarz confirmed this week that there is an ongoing investigation into an allegation that a juvenile may have attempted to access a computer network sometime in April. The breach was discovered by the Greenwich Public Schools IT department, Interim Superintendent Ralph Mayo said at the meeting, pointing out the challenges posed in cybersecurity while also crediting the department for discovering the violation and taking action. There are some really smart, smart children out there that can get around anything no matter what kind of wall you put up and what kind of procedures you put in place, Mayo said. Theyre still going to get in and you just have to have people there that recognize that. Members of the BET did not talk about the specifics of the breach in public session at the periodically contentious meeting. As discussions continued over who knew what and when about the breach, the BET scheduled a special meeting for Tuesday afternoon to focus on the towns cyber-defenses. At that meeting, the full BET will consider allocating funds for a test of the towns cybersecurity to determine possible vulnerabilities. The test will include town departments as well as Greenwich Library, The Nathaniel Witherell and the Greenwich Public Schools. Turner, who is the BETs IT liaison, has been pushing for the board to take a more aggressive role in security. He previously called existing town cyber-defenses abysmal, and clashed on the issue with BET Chair Jill Oberlander and Audit Committee Chair David Weisbrod. On Thursday, Turner again said the BET should take a more active role on cybersecurity. But Oberlander and Weisbrod said the issue is better handled by town departments. The individual departments have the responsibility for compliance and responsibility for the security of their data, Oberlander said. We are working on a coordinated approach, but that doesnt shift the responsibility for ownership of control. Weisbrod said the role of the BET and the Audit Committee should be oversight. The first line of defense is the town department heads and the second line is the towns risk management department and IT department, he said. Turner disagreed, and BET member Michael Mason pointed out that the town Charter does not specify who is responsible for cybersecurity. Its not recognized in the Charter, and each department in the town has general authority for the operations of the department, Mason said. Turner said it is wrong to put the responsibility on department heads because it is not in their job descriptions. But Oberlander said many job descriptions do not include all the responsibilities that an employee handles. Town Comptroller Peter Mynarski agreed, saying, Job descriptions are constantly evolving. Weisbrod asked Mayo whether all risk issues in town government should be directly handled by the BET. Do you want us to send in a cyber police force that goes in and directly manages your cybersecurity, or do you see that as your responsibility at the Board of Education? he asked. We have our own people that are on top of that, Mayo answered, adding that the schools IT workers discovered the breach. The cybersecurity practices of the Board of Education are probably better than most town agencies, he said. A task force, overseen by town Director of Risk Management Megan Damato, is evaluating the towns cybersecurity defenses and providing training to town employees. The Representative Town Meeting will vote Monday on next years town budget, which includes $150,000 to bring in an outside consultant to do a cybersecurity risk assessment. Discussion on Thursday also centered on communication, with many on the BET noting they had not been informed about the breach. Between being the Board of Educations liaison (on the BET), being on the Audit Committee and being IT liaison, I have three touch points on this and I didnt hear about this, Debra Hess said. We need to make sure we have lines of communication on this. Damato said she was not immediately made aware of the reported breach, either. Thats something we do need to discuss with the task force, she said. We need to know who needs to be made aware if an event does happen. On Thursday, Town Director of Information Technology Tom Klein said cybersecurity should eventually be handled outside the ongoing responsibilities of the town IT department. We will eventually have a security department and a chief security officer, Klein said. Its just a matter of when. kborsuk@greenwichtime.com FAIRFIELD First Selectman Mike Tetreau is going all in for a third term as the towns top elected official. Ive been first selectman for almost eight years now and I have to tell you, Fairfield is one amazing town, Tetreau said at Democratic Town Committee meeting May 8 at Osborn Hill Elementary School. Nancy Lefkowitz, who is currently serving her first term on the Representative Town Meeting, is running alongside Tetreau for a seat on the Board of Selectmen. I got off the sidelines and into the political arena because I wanted to solve problems and help people and this has given me that chance, Lefkowitz said. Im here tonight to declare officially that Id like to expand my chances to do so alongside a leader I have enormous respect for. Tetreau is a former member of the Board of Finance and RTM; he was appointed interim first selectman in June 2011, elected to the position that same November and re-elected in 2015. I commit to you here today that when Im re-elected as first selectman I will maintain the towns excellent fiscal stability and triple-A rating and ensure our schools are safe and secure, Tetreau said. Lefkowitz, in her speech, attributed her gun violence prevention activism as the result of the Sandy Hook Elementary 2012 shooting and her political involvement following Trumps election in 2016. The best part for me about a political campaign is really getting out and meeting people and talking to anyone who wants to engage, Lefkowitz noted. Though the kick-off was held Wednesday, Tetreau has previously stated his intention to run for re-election and has the fundraising documents to show for it. Social media posts from Fairfield Democrats last month also announced the May 8 campaign kick-off party. From Jan. 1 to March 31, the Tetreau 2019 committee raised $27,485 in individual contributions and has a total of $76,049.76 in its fundraising war chest, according to April 10 campaign finance filings. The Nancy Lefkowitz 2019 committee, filings show, raised $40,989 in individual contributions from Jan. 1 to March 31. On the Republican side, State Rep. Brenda Kupchick and Board of Finance Chairman Tom Flynn announced their candidacies for first selectman and selectman, respectively, in late February. Kupchick is currently serving her fifth term in Hartford and Flynn his third term on the Board of Finance. This is the first time that both run for a seat at the Board of Selectmen. Kupchicks campaign committee has raised $31,535 from individual contributions between Feb. 22 and March 31. Flynns committee, in the same dates, raised $7,500 from individual contributions. With Democrats and Republicans hitting the campaign trail and with nearly six months to go until voters go to the polls, the 2019 elections will see at least two new faces on the Board of Selectmen. Republican Selectmen Ed Bateson and Chris Tymniak have both confirmed that they will not seek re-election. Bateson, on Wednesday, said he would be seeking the Republican Town Committee endorsement to run for Board of Finance. humberto.juarez@hearstmediact.com Fairfield, MT (59436) Today Mostly cloudy with snow showers around this morning. High 4F. Winds NNE at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of snow 60%.. Tonight Cloudy with snow showers developing after midnight. Low near -5F. Winds N at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of snow 50%. Snow accumulations less than one inch. WESTMINSTER, Colo. Waterhemp and Palmer amaranth, both members of the pigweed family, have become significant threats to crop yields and farm incomes across the Americas. In the U.S., they compete with crops in the South and in parts of the Midwest, but according to the Weed Science Society of America (WSSA), a new community-based awareness initiative is informing growers about the risks and teaching them how to fight back. Weed scientists with The Ohio State University have worked with the United Soybean Board and the Ohio Soybean Council to launch a No Pigweed Left Behind campaign in their state, where problematic pigweeds, Amaranthus species, have been spotted in multiple counties. Our goal is to hold the line against pigweed and avoid large-scale infestations, said Mark Loux, Ph.D., of The Ohio State University. We want growers to understand they cant beat these weeds with herbicides alone. Fast growing What makes pigweed, especially Palmer amaranth and waterhemp, so problematic? A single female plant will often produce hundreds of thousands of small seeds. The weed grows rapidly as much as three inches a day under ideal conditions. Thats a problem since most post-emergence herbicides must be applied when the plants are less than three inches tall. To add to the complexity, pigweed plants can rapidly develop resistance to multiple herbicides. Campaign The No Pigweed Left Behind campaign is designed to raise grower awareness and to provide specific tips and techniques for controlling the weed before it goes to seed. For years Loux and his colleagues have shared information on pigweed with crop advisors, but they wanted to raise visibility and broaden their reach. Now catchy and colorful No Pigweed Left Behind materials are being used to call attention to their cause. Bumper stickers, brochures and other new campaign materials are being handed out at meetings, workshops and conferences and to agricultural dealer groups, extension agents and others likely to be working one-on-one with growers. If an agronomist arrives at a local farm with one of our No Pigweed Left Behind magnets on their truck, its a great conversation starter and gives them a chance to share what they know about pigweed and how it is best controlled, Loux said. Pigweed best practices So how do you battle pigweed if herbicides alone arent enough? The team at The Ohio State University recommends the following best practices: Know what pigweed looks like. There are a number of pigweed species with varying leaf shapes and characteristics, so its important to study up. Learn how to identify members of the pigweed family, including Palmer amaranth, waterhemp, spiny amaranth, smooth pigweed and redroot pigweed. Be careful of cross-contamination. If you purchase or lease equipment, know where it has been. Avoid combines, plows and custom harvesting equipment used in areas known to harbor pigweed. Avoid cotton feed products or hay that might contain pigweed, as well as manure from animals fed with cotton feed products. Scout for pigweed. Inspect fields continually throughout the growing season for pigweeds that might have escaped herbicide applications. Pay special attention to recently seeded cover crops, Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program (CREP) plots, field buffers, roadsides and natural areas where problem pigweeds might be lurking. Be smart about herbicide selection. Use residual herbicides to control early-emerging pigweed, but mix things up instead of relying on a single herbicidal site of action. Herbicide applications that include multiple sites of action still effective on the targeted pigweed population can slow the development of resistance. Avoid seed dispersal during harvest. If you spot patches of pigweed as crops are being harvested, make certain to avoid them. Running a combine over pigweed can disperse seeds and prove problematic for years to come. Use safe removal techniques. If you spot pigweed plants that have yet to produce mature seeds, pull them or cut them off just below the soil line. Plants with mature seeds should be bagged before being removed and destroyed. Either burn the plants or bury them under at least a foot of compost. A group of farmers in Scotland are to establish and develop ideas to help drive low-carbon and environmentally friendly agriculture. Under reforms to the Farming For a Better Climate (FFBC) programme, the new group will be established to trail new ways to help climate change mitigation. FFBC was first established in 2009 with a remit to research information on practical low carbon farming practices based on interacting with farmers. But earlier this year, four young farmers, called 'Agricultural Champions', were appointed and have signalled that the group should undertake a cultural and behavioural shift towards low-carbon farming in Scotland. In line with the recommendations of the Agricultural Champions, the FFBC will now be refocused on soil regenerative agriculture, including soil, fertiliser, manure management, carbon sequestration and more. Scottish government's Rural Affairs Minister Mairi Gougeon made the announcement while visiting Hugh Blacks farm in Forfar - one of the farmers participating in the group. Ms Gougeon said the world faces a 'climate emergency', saying it is more vital than ever that farmers and crofters move towards low-carbon by adapting to the changing climate and securing their business viability for generations to come. So while Farming For a Better Climate has been a success, it is now time to reform and encourage farmers to act collaboratively to ensure the future success of the industry. She added: As no two farms are the same, I am moving the system away from focussing on the individual to one of collective collaboration, maximising the opportunity for testing innovative solutions in a variety of situations. Hugh Black said the group will have an 'open mind set' and an 'eagerness to excel' in the face of climate change. It follows news of the Welsh farming industry saying how farming should be recognised as 'central' in the battle against climate change amid an increase in 'misguided attacks' on farmers. A French primary school has enrolled 15 sheep to keep a class open after parents feared declining pupil numbers would see the lesson end. The school, located in the small town of Crets en Belledonne, near the French alps, was told one of its 11 classes would stop running after the number of pupils enrolled dropped from 266 to 261. Wanting to keep the class open, local farmer Michel Girerd arrived at the school on Tuesday 7 May with around 50 sheep. He registered 15 of them, including ones named Baa-bete, Dolly and Shaun, with their birth certificates. A crowd of over 200 teachers, pupils and officials watched the registration in a special ceremony. 15 moutons inscrits a lecole de Crets en Belledonne contre la fermeture dune classe et 65 dans la cour de recre. (Shaun ?? va en CM2 ! ) @bleu_isere https://t.co/YaPHoIvR6X pic.twitter.com/KxAv2B7oJ5 Valentine Letesse (@valentineletess) May 7, 2019 The mayor of the town, Jean-Louis Maret, officially recognised the new admissions to the school. Gaelle Laval, a parent of a child at the school, told Le Parisien newspaper: National education is unfortunately only numbers. And so now, with this surge in numbers, we are good. We can go see the director of academy to assert our rights and save our class. Tesco Group's second largest business outside the UK has been accused of selling pork products where pigs are kept in cages no bigger than a fridge. Tesco Lotus, a supermarket chain in Thailand, has been accused of using sow stalls by charity World Animal Protection, a practice that has been banned in the UK since 1999. Campaigners are demanding Tesco to introduce a global pig welfare policy to stop the 'barbaric practice' on farms that supply its stores worldwide. The charity's report says the practice ensures that mother pigs are kept as 'breeding machines'. Three out of four of the worlds pigs are confined in this way, the report notes. Ian Woodhurst, World Animal Protections farming campaigns manager, said: Why should a mother pig have to suffer under the Tesco brand just because shes been born and raised in Thailand? She would normally roam around foraging for food, socialise with other pigs and build a nest for their piglets. On a factory farm she cannot do any of this, trapped in a tiny steel cage where she can barely move. He added: Supermarkets have the power to make a change for farm animals. Were urging Tesco to stop this misery and improve the lives of mother pigs on farms that supply its 2000 Tesco Lotus stores across Thailand. World Animal Protection is calling on shoppers to email the Tesco CEO to call for action on this issue. The charity has already had success persuading CP Foods, a Thai pork producer, to get mother pigs out of cages in their Thai operations by 2025. Tesco Lotus operates a network of more than 2,000 stores across Thailand. An unofficial event similar to the NFYFC's annual convention which took place in Blackpool has raised over 7,300 for vital charities. The event, which attracted more than 3,000 young farmers for a night out in Blackpool on the May bank holiday weekend, has raised thousands for Air Ambulances UK and Blackpool RNLI. It comes as the National Federation of Young Farmers Clubs (NFYFC) was forced to shut down its annual convention indefinitely as a consequence of antisocial behaviour displayed by a small minority of YFC members in Blackpool last year. However, 20-year-old John Houseman, who is a Yorkshire YFC member, said last year's incident put young farmers' reputation in 'jeopardy'. He organised the unofficial event in Blackpool this year, dubbed 'Blackpool D.I.Y AGM 2019', which took place from 3 May to 6 May. Mr Houseman said it is 'important' to show what the majority of young farmers are 'really like'. He said: As a way of giving a bit back this year, due to there being no attendance fee we are going to raise money for the national air ambulance service and Blackpool RNLI please donate generously to two great causes. The national air ambulance services are close to the hearts of many in the farming community, having come to the aid of many at a time of need. He added: It is also important to support RNLI Blackpool as a way of giving something back to the people of Blackpool, who rely on this service to safeguard people in the sea. Meanwhile, the NFYFC said in a statement that it did not 'organise or sanction any events' in Blackpool last week, and that individuals wearing YFC or NFYFC branded clothing 'did not represent the organisation'. 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. On 1st May 2019, Dave Cassidy, Anthony Baker, Gareth Rose, Daren Lee, Hugh Lloyd, Lee Edwards and three Mini Cooper S cars left Cannock in Staffordshire to drive to Hisaronu in Fethiye, Turkey (and back) to raise money for two charities. In the UK they are raising money for the Queen Elizabeth hospital after Daves father-in-law, Peter Garnett recently underwent six months worth of chemotherapy on Ward 621. On 1st May, he team set off on their journey from Cannock and made a very special stop off at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham before continuing their journey. In Turkey, they are raising money for Yasam Icin Yars (Race For Life Turkey) where the money raised will be used to help cancer patients in Fethiye receive life saving treatment., After an eventful journey and a pitstop at Gustorante Restaurant in Cals, they arrived at Abrahkebebrah in Hisaronu at 7:30pm on Sunday 5th May to a rousing, cheer filled welcome from family, friends, locals and holidaymakers who stopped by to see what was going on. Halfway there Dave and the team are now at the halfway mark and have covered 2500 miles and 13 countries, England, France, Belgium, Germany, Austria, Slovenia, Croatia, Serbia, Bulgaria, Greece, Italy, Switzerland and Turkey. What an incredible journey. In Herstal, Belgium In Vise, Belgium If youve been following the live feed on the 3 Minis go to Turkey Facebook page youll know the journey has been eventful with a missed ferry and a snag at the Turkish border that almost stopped the guys from travelling any further. Almost, but not quite! Meeting the Fethiye Governor Yesterday, Dave and the team were invited to meet with the Fethiye Governor, Muzaffer Sahiner, who has been following the progress of the Minis with interest. The Governor is also the Head of FETAV, the governing body of Yasam Icin Yars so had more than one reason for wanting to meet the team. The Minis caused quite a stir amongst passers by as they waited for the barrier to rise and let them into the car park at the Governors office building. The Minis had a few stares whilst waiting patiently for the barrier to be opened at the Governors office Once inside, the Minis were parked to show them to their best advantage, introductions were made, flowers and certificates were presented and the Governor gave his sincere thanks to Dave and the team for their support for Fethiye and Yasam Icin Yars. Photographs were taken with the Minis and the Governor was that taken with the red Mini, we thought he may offer to drive it back to the UK. The A Team (or maybe that should be the M team). Left to right: Daren Lee, Lee Edwards, Hugh Lloyd, Gareth Rose, Antony Baker and Dave Cassidy Dave talking to the Governor about the trip The Governor presented flowers and certificates to the team The M team and members of team Yasam Icin Yars Dave with Fethiye Governor, Muzaffer Sahiner The Governor was definitely taken with the red Mini A photo opportunity not to be missed The ceremony was followed by a very relaxed half an hour with the Governor in his office during which everyone drank cay and the Governor talked about Fethiye and chatted with Dave and the team. The Governor chatting to the group about Kayakoy The Minis were last seen disappearing round the one way system in Fethiye but theyre here until Friday so keep an eye out for them The Minis last seen disappearing round the one way system in Fethiye A fantastic achievement Dave, Anthony, Gareth, Daren, Hugh and Lee have raised over 7,000 for the Queen Elizabeth Hospital and over 18,000 TL for Yasam Icin Yars. What a fantastic achievement!. Make a donation To make a donation, please visit our GoFundMe page. Donate to Yasam Icin Yars 3 Minis to Turkey at GoFundMe You can follow the adventure on the 3 Minis go to Turkey Facebook page Visit Fethiye Times Facebook page for more photographs Category Select Category Apparel/Garments Textiles Fashion Technical Textiles Information Technology E-commerce Retail Corporate Association Press Release SubCategory Select Sub-Category There is not enough analysis data for North American Palladium. 4.1 Community Rank Outperform Votes North American Palladium has received 159 outperform votes. (Add your outperform vote.) Underperform Votes North American Palladium has received 99 underperform votes. (Add your underperform vote.) Community Sentiment North American Palladium has received 61.63% outperform votes from our community. MarketBeat's community ratings are surveys of what our community members think about North American Palladium and other stocks. Vote Outperform if you believe PALDF will outperform the S&P 500 over the long term. Vote Underperform if you believe PALDF will underperform the S&P 500 over the long term. You may vote once every thirty days. Previous Next Bridgepoint Education, Inc., together with its subsidiaries, provides postsecondary education services in the United States. Its academic institutions, Ashford University and University of the Rockies, offer associate's, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degree programs in the disciplines of business, education, psychology, social sciences, and health sciences. The company offers its programs primarily through online; and at its campuses. As of December 31, 2017, its institutions offered approximately 1,200 courses and 80 degree programs; and had 45,730 students enrolled. The company was formerly known as TeleUniversity, Inc. and changed its name to Bridgepoint Education, Inc. in February 2004. Bridgepoint Education, Inc. was founded in 1999 and is headquartered in San Diego, California. Read More The following companies are subsidiares of MetLife: 1001 PROPERTIES LLC, 10700 WILSHIRE LLC, 1201 TAB MANAGER LLC, 150 NORTH RIVERSIDE PE MEMBER LLC, 1925 WJC OWNER LLC, 23RD STREET INVESTMENTS INC., 500 GRANT STREET ASSOCIATES LIMITED PARTNERSHIP, 500 GRANT STREET GP LLC, 60 11TH STREET LLC, 6104 HOLLYWOOD LLC, AFP GENESIS ADMINISTRADORA DE FONDOS Y FIDECOMISOS S.A., AFP PROVIDA S.A., AGENVITA S.R.L., ALICO EUROPEAN HOLDINGS LIMITED, ALICO HELLAS SINGLE MEMBER LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY, ALICO OPERATIONS LLC, ALICO PROPERTIES INC., AMMETLIFE INSURANCE BERHAD, AMMETLIFE TAKAFUL BERHAD, American Life Insurance Company, BEST MARKET S.A., BIDV METLIFE LIFE INSURANCE LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY, BLOCK VISION HOLDINGS CORPORATION, BLOCK VISION OF TEXAS INC., BORDERLAND INVESTMENTS LIMITED, BOULEVARD RESIDENTIAL LLC, BUFORD LOGISTICS CENTER LLC, CC HOLDCO MANAGER LLC, CHESTNUT FLATS WIND LLC, CLOSED JOINT-STOCK COMPANY MASTER D, COMPANIA INVERSORA METLIFE S.A., CORPORATE REAL ESTATE HOLDINGS LLC, COVA LIFE MANAGEMENT COMPANY, DAVIS VISION INC., DAVISVISION IPA INC., DELAWARE AMERICAN LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY, DES MOINES CREEK BUSINESS PARK PHASE II LLC, ECONOMY FIRE & CASUALTY COMPANY, ECONOMY PREFERRED INSURANCE COMPANY, ECONOMY PREMIER ASSURANCE COMPANY, EURO CL INVESTMENTS LLC, EXCELENCIA OPERATIVA Y TECNOLOGICA S.A de C.V., FEDERAL FLOOD CERTIFICATION LLC, FORTISSIMO CO. LTD, FUNDACION METLIFE MEXICO A.C., GLOBAL PROPERTIES INC., General American Life Insurance Company, Grand Bank N.A., HASKELL EAST VILLAGE LLC, HIGH STREET SEVENTH AND OSBORN APARTMENTS LLC, HOUSING FUND MANAGER LLC, INTERNATIONAL TECHNICAL AND ADVISORY SERVICES LIMITED, INVERSIONES METLIFE HOLDCO DOS LIMITADA, INVERSIONES METLIFE HOLDCO TRES LIMITADA, JOINT-STOCK COMPANY METLIFE INSURANCE COMPANY, LHC HOLDINGS, LHCW HOLDINGS, LHCW HOTEL HOLDING, LHCW HOTEL HOLDING LLC, LHCW HOTEL OPERATING COMPANY, LONG ISLAND SOLAR FARM LLC, LUMENLAB MALAYSIA SDN. BHD., Logan Circle Partners, MARKETPLACE RESIDENCES LLC, MAXIS GBN S.A.S., MC PORTFOLIO JV MEMBER LLC, MCJV LLC, MCMIF HOLDCO I LLC, MCMIF HOLDCO II LLC, MCP - WELLINGTON LLC, MCP 100 CONGRESS MEMBER LLC, MCP 1500 MICHAEL LLC, MCP 1900 MCKINNEY LLC, MCP 2 AMES LLC, MCP 2 AMES ONE LLC, MCP 2 AMES OWNER LLC, MCP 2 AMES TWO LLC, MCP 220 YORK LLC, MCP 22745 & 22755 RELOCATION DRIVE LLC, MCP 249 INDUSTRIAL BUSINESS PARK MEMBER LLC, MCP 3040 POST OAK LLC, MCP 350 ROHLWING LLC, MCP 4600 SOUTH SYRACUSE LLC, MCP 550 WEST WASHINGTON LLC, MCP 60 11TH STREET MEMBER LLC, MCP 7 RIVERWAY LLC, MCP 9020 MURPHY ROAD LLC, MCP 93 RED RIVER MEMBER LLC, MCP ALLEY 24 EAST LLC, MCP ASHTON SOUTH END LLC, MCP BLOCK 23 MEMBER LLC, MCP BRADFORD LLC, MCP BUFORD LOGISTICS CENTER 2 MEMBER LLC, MCP BUFORD LOGISTICS CENTER BLDG B LLC, MCP BURNSIDE MEMBER LLC, MCP CENTER AVENUE INDUSTRIAL MEMBER LLC, MCP CLAWITER INNOVATION MEMBER LLC, MCP COMMON DESK TRS LLC, MCP DENVER PAVILIONS MEMBER LLC, MCP DILLON LLC, MCP DILLON RESIDENTIAL LLC, MCP ENV CHICAGO LLC, MCP FIFE ENTERPRISE CENTER LLC, MCP FRISCO OFFICE LLC, MCP GRAPEVINE LLC, MCP HIGHLAND PARK LENDER LLC, MCP HUB I LLC, MCP HUB I PROPERTY LLC, MCP LODGE AT LAKECREST LLC, MCP MA PROPERTY REIT LLC, MCP MAGNOLIA PARK MEMBER LLC, MCP MAIN STREET VILLAGE LLC, MCP MOUNTAIN TECHNOLOGY CENTER MEMBER TRS LLC, MCP NORTHYARDS HOLDCO LLC, MCP NORTHYARDS MASTER LESSEE LLC, MCP NORTHYARDS OWNER LLC, MCP ONE WESTSIDE LLC, MCP ONYX LLC, MCP PARAGON POINT LLC, MCP PLAZA AT LEGACY LLC, MCP PROPERTY MANAGEMENT LLC, MCP SEATTLE GATEWAY INDUSTRIAL I LLC, MCP SEATTLE GATEWAY INDUSTRIAL II LLC, MCP SEVENTH AND OSBORNE MF MEMBER LLC, MCP SEVENTH AND OSBORNE RETAIL MEMBER LLC, MCP SHAKOPEE LLC, MCP SLEEPY HOLLOW MEMBER LLC, MCP SOCAL INDUSTRIAL ANAHEIM LLC, MCP SOCAL INDUSTRIAL BERNARDO LLC, MCP SOCAL INDUSTRIAL CANYON LLC, MCP SOCAL INDUSTRIAL CONCOURSE LLC, MCP SOCAL INDUSTRIAL FULLERTON LLC, MCP SOCAL INDUSTRIAL KELLWO00OD LLC, MCP SOCAL INDUSTRIAL LAX LLC, MCP SOCAL INDUSTRIAL LOKER LLC, MCP SOCAL INDUSTRIAL REDONDO LLC, MCP SOCAL INDUSTRIAL SPRINGDALE LLC, MCP STATELINE LLC, MCP THE PALMS AT DORAL LLC, MCP TRIMBLE CAMPUS LLC, MCP UNION ROW LLC, MCP VALLEY FORGE LLC, MCP VALLEY FORGE ONE LLC, MCP VALLEY FORGE OWNER LLC, MCP VALLEY FORGE TWO LLC, MCP VANCE JACKSON LLC, MCP VINEYARD AVENUE MEMBER LLC, MCP VOA HOLDINGS LLC, MCP VOA I & III LLC, MCP VOA II LLC, MCP WATERFORD ATRIUM LLC, MCP WEST BROAD MARKETPLACE LLC, MCP ENGLISH VILLAGE LLC, MCPF ACQUISITION LLC, MCPF FOXBOROUGH LLC, MCPF NEEDHAM LLC, MCPP OWNERS LLC, MCRE BLOCK 40 LP, MEC HEALTH CARE INC., MET 1065 HOTEL LLC, MET CANADA SOLAR ULC, METLIFE 1007 STEWART LLC, METLIFE 1201 TAB MEMBER LLC, METLIFE 425 MKT MANAGER LLC, METLIFE 425 MKT MEMBER LLC, METLIFE 555 12TH MEMBER LLC, METLIFE 8280 MEMBER LLC, METLIFE ACOMA OWNER LLC, METLIFE ADMINISTRADORA DE FUNDOS MULTIPATROCINADOS LTDA., METLIFE ALTERNATIVES GP LLC, METLIFE ASHTON AUSTIN OWNER LLC, METLIFE ASIA HOLDING COMPANY PTE. 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LLC, METLIFE CREDIT CORP., METLIFE DIGITAL VENTURES INC., METLIFE EMEKLILIK VE HAYAT A.S., METLIFE EMERGING MARKET DEBT BLEND FUND, METLIFE EU HOLDING COMPANY LIMITED, METLIFE EUROPE INSURANCE d.a.c., METLIFE EUROPE SERVICES LIMITED, METLIFE EUROPE d.a.c., METLIFE EUROPEAN HOLDINGS LLC., METLIFE FINANCIAL SERVICES CO. LTD, METLIFE FM HOTEL MEMBER LLC, METLIFE FUNDING INC., METLIFE GENERAL INSURANCE LIMITED, METLIFE GLOBAL BENEFITS LTD., METLIFE GLOBAL HOLDING COMPANY I GMBH, METLIFE GLOBAL HOLDING COMPANY II GMBH, METLIFE GLOBAL HOLDINGS CORPORATION S.A. De C.V., METLIFE GLOBAL INC., METLIFE GLOBAL OPERATIONS SUPPORT CENTER PRIVATE LIMITED, METLIFE GROUP INC., METLIFE HCMJV 1 GP LLC, METLIFE HCMJV 1 LP LLC, METLIFE HEALTH PLANS INC., METLIFE HOLDINGS INC., METLIFE HOME LOANS LLC, METLIFE INNOVATION CENTRE LIMITED, METLIFE INNOVATION CENTRE PTE. 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LTD., METLIFE SOLUTIONS S.A.S., METLIFE SP HOLDINGS LLC, METLIFE SYNDICATED BANK LOAN FUND SCSP, METLIFE SYNDICATED BANK LOAN LUX GP S.A.R.L., METLIFE THR INVESTOR LLC, METLIFE TOWARZYSTWO FUNDUSZY INWESTYCYJNYCH S.A., METLIFE TOWARZYSTWO UBEZPIECZEN NA ZYCIE I REASEKURACJI S.A., METLIFE TOWER RESOURCES GROUP INC., METLIFE TREAT TOWERS MEMBER LLC, METLIFE WORLDWIDE HOLDINGS LLC, METROPOLITAN CASUALTY INSURANCE COMPANY, METROPOLITAN DIRECT PROPERTY AND CASUALTY INSURANCE COMPANY, METROPOLITAN GENERAL INSURANCE COMPANY, METROPOLITAN GLOBAL MANAGEMENT LLC., METROPOLITAN GROUP PROPERTY AND CASUALTY INSURANCE COMPANY, METROPOLITAN LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY, METROPOLITAN LIFE SEGUROS E PREVIDENCIA PRIVADA S.A., METROPOLITAN LIFE SOCIETATE de ADMINISTRARE a UNUI FOND de PENSII ADMINISTRAT PRIVAT S.A., METROPOLITAN LLOYDS INC., METROPOLITAN LLOYDS INSURANCE COMPANY OF TEXAS, METROPOLITAN PROPERTY AND CASUALTY INSURANCE COMPANY, METROPOLITAN TOWER LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY, METROPOLITAN TOWER REALTY COMPANY INC., MEX DF PROPERTIES LLC, MFA FINANCING VEHICLE CTR1 LLC, MIDTOWN HEIGHTS LLC, MIM CLAL GENERAL PARTNER LLC, MIM EMD GP LLC, MIM I LLC, MIM METWEST INTERNATIONAL MANAGER LLC, MIM ML-AI VENTURE 5 MANAGER LLC, MIM PROPERTY MANAGEMENT LLC, MIM PROPERTY MANAGEMENT OF GEORGIA 1 LLC, MIM THIRD ARMY INDUSTRIAL MANAGER LLC, MISSOURI REINSURANCE INC., ML - URS PORT CHESTER SC MANAGER LLC, ML 300 THIRD MEMBER LLC, ML ARMATURE MEMBER LLC, ML BELLEVUE MANAGER LLC, ML BELLEVUE MEMBER LLC, ML BRIDGESIDE APARTMENTS LLC, ML CAPACITACION COMERCIAL S.A. DE C.V., ML CERRITOS TC MEMBER LLC, ML CLAL MEMBER LLC, ML DOLPHIN GP LLC, ML DOLPHIN MEZZ LLC, ML MATSON MILLS MEMBER LLC, ML MILILANI MEMBER LLC, ML ONE BEDMINSTER LLC, ML PORT CHESTER SC MEMBER LLC, ML SENTINEL SQUARE MEMBER LLC, ML SLOANS LAKE MEMEBR LLC, ML SOUTHLANDS MEMBER LLC, ML SOUTHMORE LLC, ML SWAN GP LLC, ML SWAN MEZZ LLC, ML TERRACES LLC, ML THIRD ARMY INDUSTRIAL MEMBER LLC, ML VENTURE 1 MANAGER S. DE R. L. DE C.V., ML VENTURE 1 SERVICER LLC, ML-AI METLIFE MEMBER 1 LLC, ML-AI METLIFE MEMBER 2 LLC, ML-AI METLIFE MEMBER 3 LLC, ML-AI METLIFE MEMBER 4 LLC, ML-AI METLIFE MEMBER 5 LLC, MLIA MANAGER I LLC, MLIA PARK TOWER MANAGER LLC, MLIA SBAF COLONY MANAGER LLC, MLIA SBAF MANAGER LLC, MLIC ASSET HOLDINGS II LLC, MLIC ASSET HOLDINGS LLC, MLIC CB HOLDINGS LLC, MLJ US FEEDER LLC, MM GLOBAL OPERATIONS SUPPORT CENTER S.A. DE C.V., MMP CEDAR STREET OWNER LLC, MMP CEDAR STREET REIT LLC, MMP HOLDINGS III LLC, MMP OLIVIAN OWNER LLC, MMP OLIVIAN REIT LLC, MMP OWNERS III LLC, MMP OWNERS LLC, MMP SOUTH PARK OWNER LLC, MMP SOUTH PARK REIT LLC, MREF 425 MKT LLC, MSV IRVINE PROPERTY LLC, MTC FUND I LLC, MTC FUND II LLC, MTC FUND III LLC, MTL LEASING LLC, MTU HOTEL OWNER LLC, NATILOPORTEM HOLDINGS LLC, NEWBURY INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED, OCONEE GOLF COMPANY LLC, OCONEE HOTEL COMPANY LLC, OCONEE LAND COMPANY LLC, OCONEE LAND DEVELOPMENT COMPANY LLC, OCONEE MARINA COMPANY LLC, OMI MLIC INVESTMENTS LIMITED, PACIFIC LOGISTICS INDUSTRIAL SOUTH LLC, PARK TOWER JV MEMBER LLC, PARK TOWER REIT INC., PJSC METLIFE, PLAZA DRIVE PROPERTIES LLC, PNB METLIFE INDIA INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED, PREFCO FOURTEEN LLC, PREFCO XIV HOLDINGS LLC, PROVIDA INTERNACIONAL S.A., SAFEGUARD HEALTH ENTERPRISES INC., SAFEGUARD HEALTH PLANS INC., SAFEHEALTH LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY, SEVENTH AND OSBORN MF VENTURE LLC, SINO-US UNITED METLIFE INSURANCE CO. LTD., SOUTHCREEK INDUSTRIAL HOLDINGS LLC, ST. JAMES FLEET INVESTMENTS TWO LIMITED, SUPERIOR PROCUREMENT INC, SUPERIOR VISION BENEFIT MANAGEMENT INC., SUPERIOR VISION HOLDINGS INC., SUPERIOR VISION INSURANCE INC., SUPERIOR VISION INSURANCE PLAN OF WISCONSIN INC., SUPERIOR VISION OF NEW JERSEY INC., SUPERIOR VISION SERVICES INC., Safeguard Health Enterprises, Security First Group Inc., THE BUILDING AT 575 FIFTH AVENUE MEZZANINE LLC, THE BUILDING AT 575 FIFTH RETAIL HOLDING LLC, THE BUILDING AT 575 FIFTH RETAIL OWNER, THE DIRECT CALL CENTRE PTY LIMITED, TRANSMOUNTAIN LAND & LIVESTOCK COMPANY, UVC INDEPENDENT PRACTICE ASSOCIATION INC., VERSANT HEALTH CONSOLIDATIONS CORP., VERSANT HEALTH HOLDCO INC., VERSANT HEALTH LAB LLC, VIRIDIAN MIRACLE MILE LLC, VISION 21 MANAGED EYE CARE OF TAMPA BAY, VISION 21 PHYSICIAN PRACTICE MANAGEMENT COMPANY, VISION TWENTY-ONE MANAGED EYE CARE IPA INC., Versant Health, WDV ACQUISITION CORP., WFP 1000 HOLDING COMPANY GP LLC, WHITE OAK ROYALTY COMPANY, and WHITE TRACT II LLC. Ivanhoe Mines Ltd. engages in the exploration, development, and recovery of minerals and precious metals located primarily in Africa. It explores for platinum, palladium, nickel, copper, gold, rhodium, zinc, silver, germanium, and lead deposits. The company's projects include the Platreef project located in the Northern Limb of South Africa's Bushveld Complex; the Kipushi project located in Haut-Katanga Province, Democratic Republic of Congo; and the Kamoa-Kakula project located within the Central African Copperbelt. It also holds a 100% interest in the Western Foreland exploration project covering an area of approximately 2,550 square kilometers located in the Democratic Republic of Congo. It has a strategic partnership agreement with China Nonferrous Metal Mining (Group) Co., Ltd. to examine exploration, development, and acquisition of mineral projects, as well as production, smelting, and logistics opportunities in Africa. The company was formerly known as Ivanplats Limited and changed its name to Ivanhoe Mines Ltd. in August 2013. Ivanhoe Mines Ltd. was incorporated in 1993 and is headquartered in Vancouver, Canada. Read More Rumours have been rife that owing to his sour relationship with Arjun Kapoor, Salman Khan has refused to star in Boney Kapoor's No Entry 2. Hush hush suggested that Arjun Kapoor might agree to star in his dad's film and in his recent interaction with Mumbai Mirror, when he was asked about the same, he said, "Dad is about to start Ajay (Devgn) sir's film and has just completed another one with Ajith sir down South. He is focused on that for now. I am hoping we will have something by the year-end to start in 2020." Arjun is currently gearing up for India's Most Wanted and speaking of it, he said, "I am playing an Intelligence Bureau officer in the film and because of Raj sir, I got the opportunity to meet certain people who work within the community and listen to their stories. During the readings and research, I realised that in their head, these people are just doing their job. You have to be the most selfless person in the world to be in that head-space." Shahid Kapoor A Better Method Actor Than Vijay Deverakonda? The actor is also busy shooting for Panipat in which he will share screen space with Kriti Sanon and Sanjay Dutt. Arjun didn't leave any stone unturned to get under the skin of the character and went bald for the same. "Ashutosh (Gowariker, director) sir gave me enough time to think about it. And I felt excited about the look. Sometimes, you need to come out of your comfort zone to discover new things that work," said Arjun. This Is Insane As per Vogue magazine, Priyanka's ensemble cost her a whopping Rs 4,583,280 while her Jimmy Choo silver pumps were worth Rs. 24,030. It's All About Dazzling The actress also donned 100 carats of jewellery, including 88.82-carats of pink sapphire briolettes, 3.80-carats of diamond briolettes, 0.38-carats of diamonds set in 18k white gold from the luxury design house's Copacabana Collection. Her earrings itself were worth Rs 450,800. Did You Know This? As per a DNA report, she also wore three diamond and white gold pendant necklaces from the Happy Diamonds Collection while the stacks of bracelets adoring her wrists were from the Haute Joaillerie Collection. It Took 1500 Hours To Design Priyanka's Outfit A Haper's Bazaar report further stated that a team of 10 petites-mains worked on the dress for a total of 1500 hours. The Inspiration For Priyanka's Dress Jean Eudes from Dior's Vermont embroidery atelier, told the magazine that the dress was inspired by "those American television series of the 1980s... a very affected style, this whole idea of 'more, more and more'. But always chic. Always extremely chic." Meanwhile, This Is How Madhu Chopra Reacted To Priyanka's Met Gala Look She told reporters, "Itni door se kya reaction hoga, mere saamne hoti to jhappi lagati, bhut sunder lag rahi thi bhut special lag rahi thi (If she would have been here I would have hugged her, she was looking very beautiful and special)". Mahesh Babu, one of biggest names in the Telugu film industry, is currently in the limelight due to his latest release Maharshi which hit the screens today (May 9, 2019) amidst much fanfare. The film, directed by Vamshi Paidipally, features 'Prince' in three different avatars and this is its biggest highlight. The initial reports suggest that the film is a must watch which has the potential to be a huge hit. With Maharshi mania in full swing, here is some sad news for the 'Mahesh Army'. In a shocking development, a fan of the Spyder actor was recently electrocuted while putting up a flexi near a noted theatre. The 27-year-old resident of Industrial Colony was reportedly rushed to Rajahmundry Government Hospital but died on the way. We offer our condolences to the fan's near and dear ones and hope that they stay strong in this difficult time. Let us hope that everyone stays safe and such incidents don't happen ever again. Mahesh Babu shares a special bond with his fans and holds them in high regard. In fact, some time ago, he had written a sweet note for a young girl and thanked her for liking Srimanthudu. As such, the star is bound to be deeply hurt by this heartbreaking incident. Mahesh Babu's Maharshi To Be Remade In Tamil With This Top Hero? Research & Development: MP0250 (VEGF x HGF) in MM: Additional patient data from ongoing Phase 2 study of MP0250 in combination with Velcade (PI) support previously observed response rates and duration of treatment MP0250 in combination with osimertinib in EGFR-mutated Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (EGFR mut NSCLC): Enrollment of new patients on hold due to adverse events; Strategic implications under review MP0274 (Her2) progressing in dose-escalation study in Her2-positive cancer patients Immuno-oncology: USD 50 million upfront payment collected in Q1 2019 from Amgen; MP0310 (FAP x 4-1BB) is on track to move into Phase 1 clinical trials in H2 2019 Molecular Partners continues to explore DARPin molecules targeting peptide-MHC complexes in collaboration with Gilead Preclinical data on FAP x CD40 multi-DARPin molecule and on DARPin drug conjugates (DDCs) presented at AACR 2019 Preclinical data for CD3 DARPin platform presented at PEGS Boston in April 2019 Abicipar (VEGF): MAPLE trial with improved manufacturing process demonstrated decreased intraocular inflammation; abicipar is the first anti-VEGF therapy to maintain initial vision gains on a true fixed 12-week dosing interval; Allergan expects to file BLA to FDA for H1 2019 Team: Talent base with 123 full-time employees (+9% year-on-year), reflecting ongoing build-out of research and clinical development expertise Financial highlights: Strong financial position with CHF 136.5 million in cash and short-term deposits as of March 31, 2019 Net cash from operating activities of CHF 37.5 million in Q1 2019, mainly reflecting collection of USD 50 million Amgen receivable FY 2019 expense guidance reduced to CHF 60-70 million mainly due to suspended enrollment into NSCLC trial and reduced investments in manufacturing scale-up for MP0250 ZURICH-SCHLIEREN, SWITZERLAND / ACCESSWIRE / May 9, 2019 / Molecular Partners AG (SIX: MOLN), a clinical-stage biotech company that is developing a new class of drugs known as DARPin therapies*, announced today its Interim Management Statement for the period ending March 31, 2019. 'Our team is focused on delivering on our strategic priorities by advancing clinical candidates MP0250 and MP0274 and by bringing our first immuno-oncology compound MP0310 to patients with our partner Amgen,' said Dr. Patrick Amstutz, CEO of Molecular Partners. 'Additionally, our pioneering early-stage pipeline - including a tumor-localized CD40 activator (FAP x CD40), pMHC-complex targeting with DARPin molecules, DARPin CD3 platform and DARPin drug conjugates - promises to break new ground in their therapeutic space and to further augment our robust DARPin platform.' Oncology: Update of MP0250 in multiple myeloma MP0250, Molecular Partners' lead oncology asset, is a multi-DARPin candidate that targets hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), two prominent tumor escape pathways, and has the potential to reverse resistance to standard of care cancer therapies. The phase 2 study for MP0250 in combination with proteasome inhibitors (PIs) is being conducted at centers in Germany, Poland and Italy and continues to progress well. This study is evaluating MP0250 in combination with bortezomib (Velcade) and dexamethasone in patients with multiple myeloma who have failed standard therapies. Additional patient data from the ongoing phase 2 study of MP0250 in combination with Velcade (PI) support previously observed response rates and duration of treatment. Pending progress of the discussions with the FDA regarding the adverse events identified in the NSCLC study, the company is planning the initiation of a phase 2 study for MP0250 in combination with IMiDs in refractory multiple myeloma in the US with the goal to open recruitment in 2019. Update of MP0250 in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) Molecular Partners has suspended enrollment of new patients into the Phase 1b/2 clinical study of MP0250 in combination with osimertinib (Tagrisso) in patients with EGFR-mutated Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) following observation of adverse events in the kidney in this study leading to a partial clinical hold. Patient safety is of paramount importance to Molecular Partners. The company is working with the FDA to lift the hold by examining the relationship between the dose and duration of exposure to MP0250 and risk of renal injury. These side effects are not considered by investigators to be causally related to osimertinib. Strategic implications are under review. MP0274 in HER2-positive solid tumors MP0274 is a multi-DARPin product candidate in Phase 1 trial for the treatment of HER2-positive solid tumors. Recruitment in the dose escalation phase continues. Further updates on the safety profile of MP0274 are expected in H2 2019. Immuno-oncology: MP0310 on track to move into clinic in H2 2019 On December 19, 2018, the company announced a collaboration and license agreement with Amgen for the clinical development and commercialization of MP0310 (FAP x 4-1BB). MP0310 is a preclinical molecule designed to locally activate immune cells in the tumor by binding to Fibroblast Activating Protein (FAP) on tumor stromal cells (localizer) and co-stimulating T cells via 4-1BB (immune modulator). Under the terms of the agreement, Amgen obtains exclusive global development and commercial rights for MP0310. The parties will jointly evaluate MP0310 in combination with Amgen's oncology pipeline products, including its investigational BiTE (bispecific T cell engager) molecules. Under the agreement, Molecular Partners retains certain rights to develop and commercialize its proprietary DARPin pipeline products in combination with MP0310. In January 2019, Molecular Partners collected an upfront payment of USD 50 million. The company is further eligible to receive up to USD 497 million in development, regulatory and commercial milestone payments, as well as double-digit, tiered royalties up to the high teens. The parties agreed to share the clinical development costs in defined percentages for the first three indications subject to certain conditions. For all additional clinical trials, Amgen is responsible for all development costs. Molecular Partners and Amgen continue to expect to enter into clinical phase 1 trials for MP0310 in H2 2019, in line with previously communicated plans. Immuno-oncology: Molecular Partners and Gilead join forces in targeting peptide-MHC complexes In March 2019, Molecular Partners and Gilead announced a collaboration exploring the potential of DARPin molecules to selectively bind to peptide-MHC complexes. Peptide-MHC complexes provide entry to access the vast intracellular target space. However, to date, peptide-MHC complexes have been notoriously difficult to target with antibody-based therapeutics. Molecular Partners is evaluating whether DARPin molecules provide a platform to selectively access this new therapeutic space in oncology. Immuno-oncology: Preclinical data on FAP x CD40 multi-DARPin molecule presented Molecular Partners presented additional preclinical data on the company's immuno-oncology platform at the 2019 annual meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) in Atlanta. Using Molecular Partners' modular immuno-oncology toolbox, the company has designed a targeted approach to activate CD40 selectively in the tumor microenvironment. This approach is based on a multi-specific DARPin molecule that incorporates a DARPin directed to fibroblast activation protein (FAP) to localize an agonistic CD40 DARPin selectively in solid tumors with the goal of increasing efficacy while reducing systemic toxicity. Preclinical data demonstrated that the company's multi-specific FAP x CD40 DARPin molecule induced FAP-dependent activation of B cells, dendritic cells and macrophages. Immuno-oncology: Novel T-cell engager platform presented at PEGS Boston On April 10, 2019, the company presented the first preclinical data on its novel T cell engager platform based on DARPin molecules. Initial data suggest that the company's T cell engaging DARPin molecule matches antibody-based reference molecules in critical functional dimensions, has excellent biophysical properties and can be formatted with albumin binders for half-life extension. Oncology: DARPin drug conjugates (DDCs) highlighted at AACR 2019 The versatility of DARPin molecules renders them an attractive alternative to antibodies for the development of drug conjugates. Molecular Partners has developed DARPin drug conjugates (DDCs) in collaboration with ImmunoGen using a model EGFR multi-specific DARPin molecule. The DDCs displayed antigen-specific activity across a panel of cell lines expressing EGFR with selectivity and potency similar to that observed with antibody-drug conjugates. Abicipar: MAPLE results underline further progress of abicipar on its way towards market launch expected by Allergan in 2020 On April 2, 2019, Allergan and Molecular Partners announced topline safety results from MAPLE, a 28-week open-label study which enrolled 123 patients and evaluated the safety of abicipar produced via a modified manufacturing process. As a result of the improvements in the manufacturing process, the incidence of intraocular inflammation (IOI) in the MAPLE study was lower than the rate observed in prior Phase 3 studies. Most IOI events were assessed as mild to moderate in severity. The incidence of severe IOI was more than halved to 1.6 percent, with one reported case of iritis and one reported case of uveitis. There were no reported cases of endophthalmitis or retinal vasculitis in this study. The reduction of the inflammation data shown in MAPLE reinforces the positive efficacy data from previously reported Phase 3 trials. In those CEDAR and SEQUOIA trials, abicipar demonstrated its potential to transform the way physicians manage neovascular AMD with an anti-VEGF therapy. Clinical trial evidence has shown that fixed-interval dosing of anti-VEGF therapies administered either every month or every eight weeks results in better visual outcomes compared to real-world clinical outcomes. Abicipar could be the first fixed 12-week anti-VEGF treatment that improves visual outcomes in a real-world setting for a large number of AMD patients. A fixed-interval 12-week therapy would greatly reduce the treatment burden for patients with nAMD. Additional data presented at the ARVO Conference in Vancouver on May 02, 2019 highlighted abicipar's higher cumulative probability of achieving clearance of sub-retinal fluid, an absence of intra-retinal thickening, as well as an absence of all fluids compared to Lucentis. Allergan expects to file the abicipar Biologics License Application (BLA) with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the first half of 2019. Allergan plans to present additional data from the MAPLE study at a scientific conference later in 2019. Balance Sheet: Strong cash and equity positions as of March 31, 2019 Molecular Partners' financial performance for the first quarter 2019 reflects the cash collection of the USD 50 million upfront payment from Amgen for the MP0310 collaboration. Cash and short-term deposits increased by CHF 37.5 million compared to year-end 2018 to CHF 136.5 million as of March 31, 2019. Also as a consequence of the upfront payment collected from Amgen, the net cash flow from operating activities increased by CHF 29.0 million to CHF 37.5 million for the first quarter 2019 compared to the same period 2018. As of March 31, 2019, the company employed 123 FTEs (+9% year-over-year), with approximately 85% of employees serving in R&D functions. This continued increase reflects the ongoing build-out of Molecular Partners' research activities as well as internal clinical development competencies and resources. 'We were able to reinforce our solid cash position with the collected USD 50 million upfront payment from our strategic collaboration with Amgen. This further increases our financial flexibility to capture multiple value-creating inflection points into H2 2020, beyond Allergan's expected market launch of abicipar and the related expected steady income stream from there on,' said Andreas Emmenegger, Chief Financial Officer of Molecular Partners. Business outlook and priorities In 2019, Molecular Partners will continue to advance its DARPin candidates within its immuno-oncology pipeline and will present further research and preclinical data for additional therapeutic candidates resulting from the company's immuno-oncology toolbox. For the company's most advanced IO candidate, MP0310, Molecular Partners and its strategic collaboration partner Amgen expect to enter into a clinical phase 1 monotherapy trial in H2 2019. In oncology, the company will present additional data from its ongoing phase 2 trial of MP0250 in patients with multiple myeloma (MM) in combination with Velcade (PI). The company also expects to start the phase 2 trial of MP0250 in combination with Pomalidomide (IMiD) for the same indication, pending outcomes of the discussion with the FDA. Molecular Partners also expects initial data for MP0274, the proprietary DARPin candidate for the treatment of HER2-positive cancer, in 2019. In ophthalmology, following the encouraging improvement of IOI levels as reported in the MAPLE trials, complementing the differentiating phase 3 efficacy data of abicipar in patients with neovascular AMD, Allergan plans to file abicipar with the FDA in H1 2019. Molecular Partners will continue to support Allergan in advancing abicipar through the phase 3 trials and in further optimizing the abicipar formulation. Allergan indicated at its Q1 2019 earnings call its intention to launch the phase 3 study for abicipar in DME in 2020. Financial outlook 2019 For the full year 2019, at constant exchange rates, the company expects total expenses of CHF 60-70 million, of which around CHF 6 million will be non-cash effective costs for share-based payments, IFRS pension accounting and depreciations. This reduced guidance reflects the suspension of the enrollment into the NSCLC trial for MP0250 as well as the reduced investment in manufacturing scale-up for phase 3 material trials for MP0250. Capital expenditures in FY 2019 are expected to be approximately CHF 2 million. This guidance is subject to the progress of the pipeline, mainly driven by the speed of enrollment of patients in clinical trials, manufacturing costs, and data from research and development projects. No guidance can be provided with regard to net cash flow projections. Timelines and potential milestone payments for existing and potentially new partnerships are not disclosed. Financial Calendar August 27, 2019 - Publication of Half-year Results 2019 (unaudited) October 31, 2019 - Interim Management Statement Q3 2019 http://investors.molecularpartners.com/financial-calendar-and-events/ About the DARPin Difference DARPin therapeutics are a new class of protein therapeutics opening an extra dimension of multi-specificity and multi-functionality. DARPin candidates can engage more than five targets, offering potential benefits over those offered by conventional monoclonal antibodies or other currently available protein therapeutics. The DARPin technology is a fast and cost-effective drug discovery engine, producing drug candidates with ideal properties for development and very high production yields. With their low immunogenicity and long half-life in the bloodstream and the eye, DARPin therapeutics have the potential to advance modern medicine and significantly improve the treatment of serious diseases, including cancer and sight-threatening disorders. Molecular Partners is partnering with Allergan to advance clinical programs in ophthalmology and is advancing a proprietary pipeline of DARPin drug candidates in oncology and immuno-oncology. The most advanced global product candidate is abicipar, a molecule currently in phase 3, in partnership with Allergan. Several DARPin molecules for various ophthalmic indications are also in preclinical development. The most advanced DARPin therapeutic candidate wholly owned by Molecular Partners, MP0250, is in phase 2 clinical development for the treatment of solid and hematological tumors. MP0274, the second-most advanced DARPin candidate owned by Molecular Partners, binds to Her2 and inhibits downstream signaling, which leads to induction of apoptosis. MP0274 is currently in phase 1. The company's lead immuno-oncology product candidate MP0310 is a FAP x 4-1BB multi-DARPin therapeutic candidate designed to locally activate immune cells in the tumor by binding to FAP on tumor stromal cells (localizer) and co-stimulating T cells via 4-1BB (immune modulator). Molecular Partners has closed a collaboration agreement with Amgen for the exclusive clinical development and commercialization of MP0310. MP0310 is expected to enter into the clinic in H2 2019. Molecular Partners is also advancing a growing preclinical and research pipeline in immuno-oncology that features its 'I/O toolbox' and additional development programs. DARPin is a registered trademark owned by Molecular Partners AG. About Molecular Partners AG Molecular Partners AG is a clinical-stage biotech company that is developing a new class of therapies known as DARPin therapeutics. The company continues to attract talented individuals who share the passion to develop breakthrough medicines for serious diseases. Molecular Partners has compounds in various stages of clinical and preclinical development and several more in the research stage, with a current focus on oncology and immuno-oncology. The company establishes research and development partnerships with leading pharmaceutical companies and is backed by established biotech investors. For more information regarding Molecular Partners AG, go to www.molecularpartners.com. For further details, please contact: Dr. Patrick Amstutz, CEO patrick.amstutz@molecularpartners.com Tel: +41 (0) 44 755 77 00 Dr. Thomas Schneckenburger, IR & Media thomas.schneckenburger@molecularpartners.com Tel: +41 (0) 44 755 5728 Susan A. Noonan, IR USA susan@sanoonan.com Tel: +1 212 966 3650 Lisa Raffensperger, International Media lisa@tenbridgecommunications.com Tel: +1 617-903-8783 *DARPin is a registered trademark owned by Molecular Partners AG Disclaimer This communication does not constitute an offer or invitation to subscribe for or purchase any securities of Molecular Partners AG. This publication may contain certain forward-looking statements and assessments or intentions concerning the company and its business. Such statements involve certain risks, uncertainties and other factors which could cause the actual results, financial condition, performance or achievements of the company to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such statements. Readers should therefore not place reliance on these statements, particularly not in connection with any contract or investment decision. The company disclaims any obligation to update these forward-looking statements, assessments or intentions. SOURCE: Molecular Partners AG View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/544772/INTERIM-STATEMENT-BY-MANAGEMENT--Q1-2019-Positive-MAPLE-Data-for-Abicipar-Promising-Research-Data-for-Molecular-Partners-Innovative-Oncology-DARPinR-Candidates-Presented-Recruitment-Hold-in-MP0250-NSCLC-trial-Ongoing-Focus-on-Multiple-Myeloma-for-MP0250-Clinical-Development VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / May 9, 2019 / Ximen Mining Corp. (TSX-V: XIM, "Ximen" or the "Company") announces that, further to its news releases of April 8, 2019 and May 2, 2019, it has entered into five new arm's length agreements to acquire an additional 10,919,461 common shares ("Target Shares") of 0995237 B.C. Ltd., a private B.C. company ("0995237"). In consideration for these 10,919,461 additional Target Shares the Company proposes to issue a total of 642,828 Ximen common shares at a deemed issue price of $0.70 per share. Together with previously announced agreements to acquire 0995237 common shares (please refer to the press releases dated April 8, 2019 and May 2, 2019), these additional agreements bring the total number of Target Shares proposed to be acquired by the Company to 43,261,811 Target Shares, or approximately 80 % of 0995237. The total number of Ximen common shares to be issued in exchange for the 43,261,811 Target Shares is 3,528,769 (or approximately 10.62% of the total issued and outstanding Ximen common shares), at an average issue price of $0.74 per share (the "Consideration Shares"). The principal asset of 0995237 is its option to acquire the Kenville Gold Mine, located west of Nelson, B.C. The acquisition of the Target Shares remains subject to TSX Venture Exchange acceptance. The Consideration Shares will be subject to a customary 4-month, plus one day, hold period running from the date on which they are issued. The acquisition the Target Shares is expected to complete by May 30, 2019. On behalf of the Board of Directors, "Christopher R. Anderson" Christopher R. Anderson, President, CEO and Director 604 488-3900 Investor Relations: Mr. William Sattlegger, 604-488-3900 ir@XimenMiningCorp.com Ximen Mining Corp. Ximen Mining Corp. owns 100 percent interest in all three of its precious metal projects. Ximen's two gold projects, The Gold Drop Project and Brett Gold Project are located in southern British Columbia. Ximen also owns the Treasure Mountain Silver project adjacent to the past producing Huldra Silver Mine. Ximen is a publicly listed company trading on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol XIM, in the USA under the symbol XXMMF, and in Frankfurt, Munich, and Berlin Stock Exchanges in Germany under the symbol 1XM and WKN with the number as A1W2EG. This press release contains certain 'forward-looking statements' within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation, including statements regarding the receipt of TSX Venture Exchange acceptance of the above-described proposed transaction. Although the Company believes that such statements are reasonable, it can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts; they are generally, but not always, identified by the words 'expects,' 'plans,' 'anticipates,' 'believes,' 'intends,' 'estimates,' 'projects,' 'aims,' 'potential,' 'goal,' 'objective,' 'prospective,' and similar expressions, or that events or conditions 'will,' 'would,' 'may,' 'can,' 'could' or 'should' occur, or are those statements, which, by their nature, refer to future events. The Company cautions that forward-looking statements are based on the beliefs, estimates and opinions of the Company's management on the date the statements are made and they involve a number of risks and uncertainties. Consequently, there can be no assurances that such statements will prove to be accurate and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Except to the extent required by applicable securities laws and the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange, the Company undertakes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements if management's beliefs, estimates or opinions, or other factors, should change. Factors that could cause future results to differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements include the possibility that the TSX Venture Exchange may not accept the proposed transaction in a timely manner, if at all. The reader is urged to refer to the Company's reports, publicly available through the Canadian Securities Administrators' System for Electronic Document Analysis and Retrieval (SEDAR) at www.sedar.com for a more complete discussion of such risk factors and their potential effects. This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities, nor shall there be any sale of securities in any state in the United States in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful. Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Ximen Mining Corp 888 Dunsmuir Street - Suite 888, Vancouver, B.C., V6C 3K4 Tel: 604-488-3900 SOURCE: Ximen Mining Corp. View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/544788/Ximen-Provides-Update-on-Acquisition-of-Kenville-Gold-Mine Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - May 9, 2019) - Captiva Verde Land Corp. (CSE: PWR) (the "Company"), is pleased to announce that Captiva Verde has acquired Solargram Farms Corporation ("Solargram"), a Canadian controlled private corporation, having corporate offices in Moncton, NB. With this acquisition, Captiva Verde has taken 100% ownership interest into a world class team of experienced operators and growers, dedicated to full spectrum, hand crafted, outdoor organic cannabis and oil extracts, providing high valued finished health and wellness products using natural farm inputs. The Solargram team has over 40 years of combined industry specific, non-stop operating, growing and processing experience in a specific regional market that, taken together, has over 125 years of collective experience. The acquisition includes land assets, growing assets, proprietary IP and technological expertise necessary to successfully run and operate multiple planned outdoor grown, low cost per gram, organic cannabis site operations together with its planned related full spectrum cannabis oil concentrate processing facilities. In fact, Solargram has a five year planned outdoor farm grown cannabis production capacity in excess of 185 farm acres representing over 76,000 kg's of dried cannabis targeted for organic cannabis oil concentrate for export as well as developed in house, best in class unique cannabis products. In concert with this acquisition, Captiva Verde is working together with its advisory board chairman Drake Sutton-Shearer, CEO of PRHBTD, a leading consumer goods and content company, to source and curate high value branded products for Captiva Verde, enabling the company to have a unique position in the Canadian and export market. Captiva Verde believes the entire cannabis market is at the beginning of its second phase, where hard learned financial lessons gained from the first 130+ licensed producers before it, allow Captiva Verde to emerge as a successful graduate from the first five years of public cannabis operations. The second phase will be a time of consolidations, disintegrations and the emergence of new public companies like Captiva Verde, strengthened by the lessons of this valuable history. Cannabis is an evolutionary business within a revolutionary change of politics. The torch is being handed back to veteran growers, scientist and proven business leaders who understand the original intent of legalization, which is to have the lowest cost, first in class products available to everyone. Many scientists believe that the most prolific natural factory of medicines in our planet, is the cannabis plant, and that the most potent and purest of theses plants, is the outdoor and organically grown variety, where its contact with the natural elements and diurnal weather patterns, enjoin and stimulate the production of high potency cannabinoids. Less than 4% of Canada's current legal cannabis products are derived from outdoor operations. Sun grown outdoor plants have the lowest cost with consistent high yields and potency, providing consumers with an opportunity to choose from a selection of natural and healthier products than what the market currently offers. The new successful companies like Captiva Verde, can provide both a superior product and a price point, inclusive of taxes, that is well below the black market rates, which the latter currently outperforms the legal market at a rate of more than two to one. Companies such as Captiva Verde, embrace the experiences of long time growing veterans, scientist and proven business leaders whose collective experience together, puts cannabis where its intention is most valued, to the trusted consumer. The operation will commence with 3.2 million square feet of outdoor growing space and the acquisition of all the components to start the operations will now begin at a fast pace. The above activities are in addition to the ongoing efforts in the USA to offer legal hemp and CBD products to big box retailers and the build-out of a robust distribution network in Mexico that will offer curated and affordable hemp, CBD and Cannabis branded products to people interested in health and wellness. The company previously announced the engagement of Drake Sutton-Shearer as Chairman of the newly created advisory board. Drake is the CEO of PRHBTD and a global thought leader in the Cannabis industry. PRHBTD (www.prohbtdglobal.com) creates and markets lifestyle and wellness brands to global audiences, overturning the taboos and stereotypes of the status quo cannabis vernacular and continually pushing it toward the mainstream. With offices in the USA and Canada, the company is also the exclusive global cannabis partner of Licensing Expo, Advertising Week, Entrepreneur Media, Post Media and All Def Media. Drake will be helping Captiva Verde CEO Jeffrey Ciachurski assemble an advisory board of domain experts to support North American operations and initiatives. In addition, the company is extremely diversified to provide shareholder security through its ownership of a 50% interest in and to an approved $350 Million residential subdivision in Southern California. The companies other 50% partner, Greenbriar Capital Corp., is currently in negotiations with a US Federal Agency, to lease the entire subdivision under a long term lease agreement. On Behalf of the Board of Directors "Jeff Ciachurski" Jeffrey Ciachurski Chief Executive Officer and Director Cell: (949) 903-5906 E-mail: westernwind@shaw.ca Cautionary Note Regarding Forward Looking Information This release includes certain statements that may be deemed "forward-looking statements". All statements in this release, other than statements of historical facts, that address events or developments that the Company expects to occur, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, but not always, identified by the words "expects", "plans", "anticipates", "believes", "intends", "estimates", "projects", "potential" and similar expressions, or that events or conditions "will", "would", "may", "could" or "should" occur. Although the Company believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause the actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include regulatory actions, market prices, and continued availability of capital and financing, and general economic, market or business conditions. Investors are cautioned that any such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based on the beliefs, estimates and opinions of the Company's management on the date the statements are made. Except as required by applicable securities laws, the Company undertakes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements in the event that management's beliefs, estimates or opinions, or other factors, should change. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/44682 VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / May 9, 2019 / Alba Minerals Ltd. ("Alba") (TSX - Venture: AA / Frankfurt: A117RU / OTC: AXVEF is pleased to announce that it has entered into an agreement with Journey Exploration Inc. ("Journey"), a private arms' length company, to acquire all of the issued and outstanding share capital of Journey. Journey holds a 100% interest in 5 prospective vanadium and uranium properties in Colorado and Utah. The properties are in and adjacent to the Uravan Mineral Belt in which extensive prospecting, exploration, drilling and ore production has occurred for vanadium, uranium and radium since 1881. All 5 of the properties involved in the agreement were significant producers of vanadium and uranium during the last century. The Yellow Circle Property is comprised of 96 mineral claims in San Juan County, Utah, USA covering 2045.34acres (828 hectares) and located approximately 15 miles (24 km) southeast of Moab, Utah. The claims cover an area of previous mining where vanadium and uranium ores were produced from the Yellow Circle Group of Mines. The property is easily accessible from Moab by a 2-lane sealed highway and the area itself is readily accessible by roads, tracks and drill trails established by previous miners and explorers of the Yellow Circle Group of Mines. Many of the underground workings remain accessible as witnessed by the photographs (Figures 1 and 2), taken during a site visit to the property in April 2019. Figures 1 and 2 - Typical Yellow Circle mine workings, many of which remain accessible. Mineralization within the claims area has been known since 1917, and high-grade vanadium - uranium ore has been mined intermittently over several decades. The total production is unknown, however in 1943, mines within the claims area were credited with 1,624 tons (1,473 tonnes) of ore averaging 1.65% V2O5 (Huleatt and Hazen, 1946). Beginning in 1949, records of the U. S. Department of Energy indicate that the Yellow Circle area produced about 63,000 tons (57,000 tonnes) of vanadium-uranium ore. Figures 3 and 4 - The Yellow Circle underground workings have many instances where vanadium mineralization is visible, denoted by the dark grey to black coloration. In 1943 the U. S. Bureau of Mines drilled 51 diamond drill holes that covered an area of about 28 acres (11 hectares) within the Yellow Circle claims area in an effort to stimulate production from the mines. Three ore horizons were defined, with some of the better intercepts given in Table 1: Table 1. Drill intercepts from U.S. Bureau of Mines 1943 drill program within the Yellow Circle claims area Hole ID From (ft) To (ft) Interval (ft) V2O5 Weighted Avg (%) U3O8 Weighted Avg (%) 106 28.8 35.0 6.2 1.33 0.12 109 31.4 31.8 0.4 9.20 2.04 110 37.6 40.9 3.3 0.88 0.00 138 51.3 54.6 3.3 3.20 0.05 139 24.3 26.4 2.1 2.30 0.03 The values in Table 1 are historic in nature and have not been verified. Three grab samples collected from accessible underground workings on April 1, 2019 yielded the results listed in Table 2. Samples were sent to ALS Laboratories in Reno, Nevada for analysis. Table 2: Grab sample results from samples collected from Yellow Circle underground workings. Sample ID V (ppm) V (%) U (ppm) U (%) 320485 26,800 2.68 6,390 0.64 320486 9,730 0.97 3,100 0.31 320487 32,200 3.22 >50000 >5.00 It is estimated that there are in the order of 20 or more historic mine adits that have accessed both vanadium and uranium mineralization. Alba is moving forward rapidly to verify and expand on the historic data. Currently, the verification drill holes have been staked and the locations are in the process of being submitted to the U. S. Bureau of Land Management to obtain drilling permits. This transaction has been filed with the TSX Venture Exchange and qualifies as an expedited acquisition under Policy 5.3. The acquisition of Journey remains subject to TSX Venture Exchange approval. The technical information contained in this news release has been reviewed and approved by Bradley C. Peek, MSc and Certified Professional Geologist, who is a Qualified Person with respect to the Torado Vanadium & Uranium Project as defined under National Instrument 43-101. Reference: Huleatt, W. P. and Hazen, Scott W. Jr., 1946, Exploration of Vanadium Region of Western Colorado and Eastern Utah: U. S. Bureau of Mines Report of Investigations 3930. About Alba Minerals Ltd. Alba Minerals Ltd. is a Vancouver-based junior resource company with projects in North and South America. Alba is focused on the development of the following portfolio of interests: 3,800,000 common share ownership interest in Noram Ventures Inc., a lithium exploration and development Company whose principal property hoests a 146,000,000 inferred resource in Clayton Valley Nevada. The Quiron II Lithium Property consists of 2,421 hectares of prospective lithium exploration in the Pocitos Salar, Province of Salta, Argentina. The Property is located approximately 12 km northeast from the Liberty One Lithium Corp and 19 km from Pure Energy Minerals Ltd.'s Pocitos prospects. The Chascha Norte property consists of 2,843 hectares of prospective lithium exploration in the Southeastern part of the Salar de Arizaro, Salta, Argentina in closest vicinity to Argentina Lithium & Energy Corporation's and Lithium X's Arizaro lithium brine projects. The Rainbow Canyon Gold Property consists of 417 hectares of prospective gold exploration in the Olinghouse mining district, in the Washoe County Nevada. The Muddy Mountain property consists of 450.41 hectares of prospective lithium exploration in Muddy Mountains of Clark County, Nevada. Please visit our web site for further information: www.albamineralsltd.com. ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS "Sandy MacDougall" Chairman & Director Phone: (604) 662-7902 This news release contains projections and forward - looking information that involve various risks and uncertainties regarding future events. Such forward - looking information can include without limitation statements based on current expectations involving a number of risks and uncertainties and are not guarantees of future performance of the Company. The following are important factors that could cause the Company's actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward looking statements; the uncertainty of future profitability; and the uncertainty of access to additional capital. These risks and uncertainties could cause actual results and the Company's plans and objectives to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking information. Actual results and future events could differ materially from anticipated in such information. These and all subsequent written and oral forward- looking information are based on estimates and opinions of management on the dates they are made and expressed qualified in their entirety by this notice. The Company assumes no obligation to update forward-looking information should circumstance or management's estimates or opinions change. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. SOURCE: Alba Minerals Ltd. View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/544642/Alba-Acquires-Torado-Vanadium-Uranium-Project-Yellow-Circle-Property--Historic-Producer FIERA CAPITAL'S PREMIER INDEPENDENT CANADIAN DISTRIBUTION PLATFORM TO BE ENHANCED WITH ACCESS TO NATIXIS' GLOBAL ACTIVE INVESTMENT STRATEGIES Long-term agreement establishes Fiera Capital as Natixis' preferred distributor in Canada Natixis to acquire an 11.0% stake in Fiera Capital for C$128.16 million Fiera Capital intends to repurchase for cancellation 2.45 million Fiera Class A Shares from National Bank of Canada Natixis Investment Managers CEO Jean Raby to join Board of Fiera Capital Fiera Capital Corporation ("Fiera Capital") (TSX: FSZ) and Natixis Investment Managers ("Natixis") today announced they have entered into a long-term strategic partnership that will establish Fiera Capital as Natixis' preferred Canadian distribution platform, giving Fiera Capital's clients access to Natixis' wide range of highly active investment strategies. As part of the agreement, Natixis has strengthened its commitment to the Canadian market through the acquisition of an 11.0% stake in Fiera Capital (limited impact on Natixis' CET1 ratio), and Natixis Investment Managers' CEO, Jean Raby, will join Fiera Capital's board of directors. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190508006002/en/ The partnership between Fiera Capital and Natixis includes: the acquisition by Natixis of a total of 10.68 million Class A subordinate voting shares of Fiera Capital (the "Fiera Class A Shares") from a wholly-owned subsidiary of National Bank of Canada ("NBC"), and DJM Capital, an entity controlled by Jean-Guy Desjardins ("DJM Capital"), for a total consideration of C$128.16 million ("Natixis Share Acquisition"); a long-term distribution agreement under the terms of which Fiera Capital will become Natixis' preferred Canadian distributor for its investment strategies and products, and Natixis is able to offer its international clients complementary Fiera Capital investment strategies through its Dynamic Solutions platform; a purchase agreement pursuant to which Fiera Capital will acquire Natixis' Canadian operations (the "Natixis Canada Transaction"). Fiera Capital also intends to repurchase for cancellation 2.45 million Fiera Class A Shares from a wholly-owned subsidiary of NBC for a total consideration of C$29.40 million (the "Share Repurchase"). Closing and settlement of the Natixis Share Acquisition and of the Share Repurchase is expected to occur concurrently on May 9, 2019. "This partnership with Natixis will further strengthen Fiera Capital's global leadership position as we continue to execute on our 2022 strategic plan to become one of the top 100 asset managers in the world," said Jean-Guy Desjardins, Chairman and CEO, Fiera Capital. "We are excited to offer Natixis' highly rated active global investment strategies to our Canadian client base and to establish a long-term partnership with a global player with C$1.2 trillion AUM and a presence in 38 countries." "We are pleased to expand our commitment to the Canadian market by establishing this long-term partnership with one of its premier asset managers, Fiera Capital," said Jean Raby, CEO of Natixis Investment Managers. "Fiera Capital has an experienced team, a strong track record and a leading distribution network in Canada, and this partnership will enable both firms to better serve our clients by offering a broader range of active investment strategies." "Our relationship with Fiera remains strong, and Fiera continues to be a key provider of asset management services to us. We recently agreed to extend that relationship for a further three-year period. We look forward to continuing to work with their management team," said Louis Vachon, CEO, National Bank of Canada. "The long-term distribution agreement with Natixis marks a major milestone for Fiera Capital and is a testament to our leadership in Canada and our growing presence worldwide. Furthermore, our distribution agreement will provide Fiera Capital clients with an expanded suite of investment strategies and offers the potential for international growth through Natixis' Dynamic Solutions offering," said Vincent Duhamel, Global President and COO, Fiera Capital. Natixis Share Acquisition and Share Repurchase Details Under the terms of a share purchase agreement entered into between, among others, Natixis Investment Managers Canada Holdings Ltd. ("Natixis Canada Holdings") (a wholly-owned Canadian subsidiary of Natixis), NBC, DJM Capital and Fiera Capital, Natixis will acquire, through Natixis Canada Holdings, 8.23 million Fiera Class A Shares from a wholly-owned subsidiary of NBC and 2.45 million Fiera Class A Shares from DJM Capital, totalling 10.68 million Fiera Class A Shares and representing, upon completion of the Share Repurchase, 13.7% of the total issued and outstanding Fiera Class A Shares and 11.0% of the total issued and outstanding shares of Fiera Capital at a purchase price equal to C$12.00 per share (the "Investment Price") for a total consideration of C$128.16 million. Natixis will not directly or indirectly hold any shares of Fiera Capital immediately prior to the completion of the Natixis Share Acquisition. Fiera Capital also intends to repurchase for cancellation 2.45 million Fiera Class A Shares from a wholly-owned subsidiary NBC at a per share price equal to the Investment Price for a total consideration of C$29.40 million. The Investment Price represents a discount of 1.0% to the closing price of the Fiera Class A Shares on the Toronto Stock Exchange on May 8, 2019. A favourable decision was obtained from the Autorite des marches financiers to exempt Fiera from the issuer bid requirements of securities laws applicable to the Share Repurchase. Upon completion of the Natixis Share Acquisition and the Share Repurchase, NBC will own 6,903,484 Fiera Class A Shares and DJM Capital will own 288,206 Fiera Class A Shares, representing 8.9% and 0.4%, respectively, of the total issued and outstanding Fiera Class A Shares, and 7.1% and 0.3%, respectively, of all issued and outstanding Fiera Capital shares. After completion of the Share Repurchase, Fiera Capital will have 77,976,287 Fiera Class A Shares and 19,412,401 Class B special voting shares (the "Fiera Class B Shares") issued and outstanding. Distribution Agreement Details The Distribution Agreement will have a term of five years, with an initial renewal term of three years and subsequent annual renewal terms thereafter. Under the terms of the Distribution Agreement, Fiera Capital will distribute Natixis investment strategies to Canadian institutional, private wealth and retail clients, and Natixis will offer complementary Fiera Capital investment strategies, such as their suite of private market alternative investment strategies, in international markets through its Dynamic Solutions group as warranted. Natixis affiliates may retain direct client distribution rights. Natixis Canada Transaction Details Fiera Capital will acquire Natixis' Canadian operations and funds, as well as enhance the range of strategies it distributes by adding Fiera Capital's public and private investment solutions to this established client network. Natixis' Canadian operations are based in Toronto and have approximately C$1.8 billion in AUM. The manager of the funds will continue to operate as a distinct legal entity with the existing senior management team intact. There are no immediate plans to change the investment objectives of the funds, increase the management fees or operating expenses paid by the funds or change the role of the manager as manager of the funds. The Natixis Canada Transaction, which is expected to close in the third quarter of 2019, is subject to customary conditions, including applicable regulatory approvals. Natixis Board Representation Natixis, through Natixis Canada Holdings, entered into an Investor Rights Agreement with Fiera Capital entitling Natixis to propose one director for election to Fiera Capital's Board of Directors (the "Natixis Nominee"), subject to Fiera Capital's consent. In order to accommodate such appointment, Martin Gagnon has resigned, effective upon completion of the Natixis Share Acquisition and the Share Repurchase, from the Board of Directors of Fiera Capital and Jean Raby, CEO of Natixis Investment Managers, will be appointed to fill the vacancy. It is also expected that Mr. Raby will be a candidate for election at Fiera Capital's upcoming annual shareholders' meeting to be held on May 30, 2019.In addition, under the terms of the Investor Rights Agreement, Natixis was granted certain anti-dilution rights allowing it to maintain its ownership interest in Fiera Capital. The Investor Rights Agreement shall be effective so long as Natixis holds at least 9.5% of the outstanding shares of Fiera Capital (on a non-diluted basis and adjusted downward to take into account certain dilutive events). Voting Arrangements, Sale Rights; Call Option Agreement and Early Warning Disclosure Natixis (through Natixis Canada Holdings) and Jean-Guy Desjardins have agreed that, in the event that the Fiera Class B Shares are converted into Fiera Class A Shares or otherwise lose their entitlement to elect two-thirds of the directors of Fiera Capital, Natixis shall vote in favour of the election of the slate of directors proposed by management of Fiera Capital and Jean-Guy Desjardins shall vote, and cause his affiliates (including Fiera Capital L.P.) to vote, in favour of the election of the Natixis Nominee. In addition, Jean-Guy Desjardins was granted the right to require Natixis to buy up to a maximum of 4.8 million Fiera Class A Shares (or equivalent units of Fiera Capital L.P.) held, directly or indirectly, by Jean-Guy Desjardins or entities controlled directly or indirectly by him, including DJM Capital, exercisable in up to two tranches subject to satisfaction of the terms and conditions of a Voting Arrangements/Put Option Agreement (the "Put Options"). The Put Options will be exercisable based on the market price (as such term is defined in section 1.11 of National Instrument 62-104 Take-Over Bids and Issuer Bids) when the Put Options are exercised. The grant and exercise of the Put Options is exempted from applicable take-over bid requirements under the private agreement exemption. Natixis, through Natixis Canada Holdings, also granted an option (the "Call Option") to Fiera Capital L.P. entitling Fiera Capital L.P. to purchase Natixis' Fiera Class A Shares at their market value at the time of exercise of such option in consideration for units of Fiera Capital L.P. Such purchase would not be subject to or be exempted from applicable take-over bid requirements under the private agreement exemption. Fiera Capital L.P. currently holds 6,275,288 Fiera Class A Shares and 19,412,401 Fiera Class B Shares, representing, in the aggregate and after completion of the Share Repurchase, 26.4% of all issued and outstanding shares of Fiera Capital. Fiera Capital L.P. will be entitled to and intends to exercise the option if its ownership interest in Fiera Capital decreases to under 20%. Assuming full exercise of the option on the date hereof, Fiera Capital L.P. would hold 16,955,288 Fiera Class A Shares and 19,412,401 Fiera Class B Shares, representing, in the aggregate and after completion of the Share Repurchase, 37.3% of all issued and outstanding shares of Fiera Capital. Mr. Desjardins indirectly controls Fiera Holdings Inc., the sole general partner of Fiera Capital L.P. Fiera Holdings Inc., as general partner of Fiera Capital L.P., determines how the shares of Fiera Capital held by Fiera Capital L.P. are voted. Following completion of the Natixis Share Acquisition and Share Repurchase, Mr. Desjardins will indirectly beneficially own 230,565 Fiera Class A Shares and 7,195,714 Fiera Class B Shares, representing, in the aggregate, 7.6% of all issued and outstanding shares of Fiera Capital. The Fiera Class A Shares and Fiera Class B Shares owned or beneficially owned by Mr. Desjardins, or the persons considered to act as joint actors with respect to Mr. Desjardins, are held for investment purposes, and Mr. Desjardins and such joint actors intend to review on a continuing basis their investment in Fiera Capital. Mr. Desjardins and any joint actor in relation thereto, may, depending on market and other conditions, increase or decrease their beneficial ownership, control or direction over securities of Fiera Capital through market transactions, private agreements, public offerings or otherwise. Mr. Desjardins and/or any joint actors however may at any time and from time to time, review or reconsider and change their position and/or change their purpose and/or develop such plans or future intentions with respect to the business and affairs of Fiera Capital. An early warning report with additional information in respect of the aforesaid Natixis Share Acquisition, Share Repurchase and Call Option will be filed and made available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com under Fiera Capital's issuer profile. In order to obtain a copy of the early warning report, you may also contact Ms. Violaine Des Roches, Senior Vice President, Chief Legal and Chief Compliance Officer and Corporate Secretary at Fiera Capital, at telephone number: (514) 954-3750. Fiera Capital's head office and the address of Fiera Capital L.P. and of Jean-Guy Desjardin's for these purposes is 1501 McGill College, Suite 800, Montreal, Quebec H3A 3M8. Natixis Investment Managers, a French societe anonyme, has its head office located at 43 Avenue Pierre Mendes-France, 75013 Paris, France. Natixis Canada Holdings, a Quebec incorporated corporation, an indirect subsidiary wholly-owned by Natixis, has its head office located at the offices of Norton Rose Fulbright Canada LLP at 1 Place Ville Marie, Suite 2500, Montreal, Quebec H3B 1R1. RBC Capital Markets served as exclusive financial advisor to Natixis, and GMP Securities served as exclusive financial advisor to Fiera Capital. Forward-Looking Information This announcement contains forward-looking statements. These statements relate to future events and reflect management's expectations or beliefs regarding such future events, based on information currently available to management of Fiera Capital and Natixis. In some cases, forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as "may", "will", "plans", "believes", "expects", "aims", "intends", "anticipates", "estimates", "projects" or words or terms of similar substance or the negative thereof. Forward-looking statements in this news release include, but are not limited to, statements made with respect to the completion of the Natxis Share Acquisition and the resulting ownership of shares in the capital of Fiera Capital by Natixis, the completion of the Share Repurchase, NBC and DJM Capital's expected ownership of shares in the capital of Fiera Capital upon completion of the Natixis Share Acquisition and the Share Repurchase, the issued and outstanding shares in the capital of Fiera Capital upon completion of the Natixis Share Acquisition and the Share Repurchase, the entering into the Distribution Agreement,the closing of the Natixis Canada Transaction, Fiera Capital L.P.'s expected ownership of shares in the capital of Fiera Capital upon exercise of the Call Option, Mr. Desjardins' ownership of shares in the capital of Fiera Capital as a result of the completion of the Natixis Share Acquisition and Share Repurchase. The forward-looking statements are based on estimates and assumptions made by the management of Fiera Capital and Natixis as at the date the statements are made. Other assumptions upon which the forward-looking statements are based, include assumptions regarding the satisfaction of all closing conditions in the share purchase agreement pertaining to the Natixis Canada Transaction, the completion of the Natixis Share Acquisition and the Share Repurchase as expected, the accuracy of all records relating to Fiera Capital's share capital. By their very nature, forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties, both general and specific, and a number of factors could cause actual events or results to differ materially from the results discussed in the forward-looking statements. In evaluating these statements, readers should specifically consider various factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from any forward-looking statement. These factors include, but are not limited to, market and general economic conditions, the nature of the financial services industry, the failure to satisfy all closing conditions in the share purchase agreement pertaining to the Natixis Canada Transaction including the failure to receive required regulatory approvals or third party consents and the risks and uncertainties detailed from time to time in Fiera Capital's interim and annual consolidated financial statements and its Annual Report and Annual Information Form filed on www.sedar.com. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this document and neither Fiera Capital or Natixis assume any obligation to update or revise them to reflect new events or circumstances. Each of Fiera Capital and Natixis are responsible only for the disclosure herein relating to their respective affairs and neither Fiera Capital or Natixis assumes any liability for disclosure relating to the other party. About Fiera Capital Corporation Fiera Capital is a leading independent asset management firm with approximately C$144.9 billion in assets under management as of March 31, 2019. The Firm provides institutional, retail and private wealth clients with access to full-service integrated money management solutions across traditional and alternative asset classes. Clients and their portfolios derive benefit from Fiera Capital's depth of expertise, diversified offerings and outstanding service. Fiera Capital trades under the ticker FSZ on the Toronto Stock Exchange. www.fieracapital.com In the U.S., asset management services are provided by the Firm's U.S. affiliates who are investment advisers that are registered with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Registration with the SEC does not imply a certain level of skill or training. Additional information about Fiera Capital Corporation, including the Firm's annual information form, is available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com About Natixis Investment Managers Natixis Investment Managers serves financial professionals with more insightful ways to construct portfolios. Powered by the expertise of 24 specialized investment managers globally, we apply Active Thinking to deliver proactive solutions that help clients pursue better outcomes in all markets. Natixis ranks among the world's largest asset management firms1 (US$924.5 billion/808.6 billion AUM2). Headquartered in Paris and Boston, Natixis Investment Managers is a subsidiary of Natixis. For additional information, please visit the company's website at im.natixis.com LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/natixis-investment-managers. Natixis Investment Managers includes all of the investment management and distribution entities affiliated with Natixis Distribution, L.P. and Natixis Investment Managers S.A. 1 Cerulli Quantitative Update: Global Markets 2018 ranked Natixis Investment Managers as the 16th largest asset manager in the world based on assets under management as of December 31, 2017. 2 Net asset value as of December 31, 2018. Assets under management ("AUM"), as reported, may include notional assets, assets serviced, gross assets, assets of minority-owned affiliated entities and other types of non-regulatory AUM managed or serviced by firms affiliated with Natixis Investment Managers. About Natixis Natixis is a French multinational financial services firm specialized in asset wealth management, corporate investment banking, insurance and payments. A subsidiary of Groupe BPCE, the second-largest banking group in France through its two retail banking networks, Banque Populaire and Caisse d'Epargne, Natixis counts nearly 16,000 employees across 38 countries. Its clients include corporations, financial institutions, sovereign and supranational organizations, as well as the customers of Groupe BPCE's networks. Listed on the Paris stock exchange, Natixis has a solid financial base with a CET1 capital under Basel 3(1) of 11.8 billion, a Basel 3 CET1 Ratio(1) of 10.8 and quality long-term ratings (Standard Poor's: A+ Moody's: A1 Fitch Ratings: A+). (1) Based on CRR-CRD4 rules as reported on June 26, 2013, including the Danish compromise without phase-in. Figures as at 31 December 2018. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190508006002/en/ Contacts: Investor: For Fiera Capital Corporation Mariem Elsayed Fiera Capital Corporation +1 514-954-6619 melsayed@fieracapital.com For Natixis Damien Souchet Natixis investorelations@natixis.com +33 1 58 55 41 10 Media: For Fiera Capital Corporation Kaitlyn Nightingale Edelman +1 416 849-3147 kaitlyn.nightingale@edelman.com For Natixis Investment Managers Ted Meyer Natixis Investment Managers +1 617-449-2507 ted.meyer@natixis.com For Natixis Sonia Dilouya Natixis +33 1 58 32 01 03 sonia.dilouya@natixis.com TERRE DES FEMMES, a world-wide women's rights organization, launches the campaign "Rated by women" for the elections of the European Parliament end of May. The EU-flag with its twelve stars becomes a rating tool showing the progress Europe has made and the distance it still has to go for the fulfillment of women's rights. TERRE DES FEMMES criticizes conservative populist and nationalist movements, the general absence of a women's rights agenda for the elections but calls on all Europeans to vote. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190509005097/en/ EU elections: TERRE DES FEMMES calls for more women's rights (Photo: Business Wire) More than half of the population of the European Union are women and still women's rights play no role in the current campaigns for the EU elections in 28 member states. TERRE DES FEMMES' new campaign brings women's rights back on the agenda. It calls on all candidates and parties to take a stand for more equality and engage in the fight against prostitution and violence. For example, TERRE DES FEMMES gives Europe 8 out of 12 stars on the topic of parity/ gender equality, as with 36.1 per cent in the current European Parliament women are still underrepresented. Concerning prostitution only three EU-states have adopted a Sex Buyer Law that makes buying people for sex a criminal offence. So only one tenth of the stars on the flag shines. In case of violence against women, the rating system is put upside-down. As still one third of all women in Europe are affected by sexual and domestic violence, TERRE DES FEMMES gives Europe 4,5 stars. Four stars symbolize the women affected, another half a star the high number of unreported cases. The campaign was launched in Berlin in front of the German Parliament and is travelling Europe with stops in Amsterdam, Brussels, Paris, Strasbourg, Prague, Vienna, Bratislava, Budapest, and Munich. "Europe has made an immense progress in women'srights but there is still need for action. Our campaign wants to sensitize the voters for central themes like prostitution, parity and the prevention of violence against women. They belong to the agenda of all candidates for the EU elections. Especially in times with conservative populist and nationalist movements gaining grounds, it is important to vote and to continue the progress we have made", says Christa Stolle, Managing Director, TERRE DES FEMMES. Further information: http://www.ratedbywomen.eu/en.html View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190509005097/en/ Contacts: Jerome Cholet McCann Worldgroup Germany jerome.cholet@mccann.de The free-to-attend conference will be hosted in Manchester between 14th 16th May offering visitors a packed agenda of business talks, networking opportunities and global funding initiatives. This month, Government agency, Innovate UK is hosting what's set to be the biggest innovation event in the UK this year. Now in its sixth year, the EUREKA Global Innovation Summit (EGIS) is the only global meeting place for business and innovation agencies to network, learn about global funding initiatives and secure future business opportunities. A driving force towards a globally competitive Britain, the Summit also presents an advantage for the UK economy. Taking place at the Victoria Warehouse, Manchester between the 14th 16th May, the free-to-attend conference will provide practical advice on scale-up, pitching and valuable forecasting from a broad range of speakers including Dr Ian Campbell, Executive Chair of Innovate UK; Paul Stein, CTO of Rolls Royce and Stephen Welton, CEO Business Growth Fund. As the flagship event of the UK Chairmanship of EUREKA, an international network for business collaboration, representatives from over 58 countries, in addition to over 700 UK businesses, are expected to attend the Summit. Bringing together over 1700 International businesses, investors and policy makers looking to drive growth through collaboration, EGIS provides a unique opportunity for UK businesses to meet, collaborate and share ideas with innovation experts from across the globe. The conference, which includes a packed agenda of over 50 talks, panel debates and workshops delivered by innovation experts from across the globe, will this year focus on the UK's Industrial Strategy including key topics such as artificial intelligence, data sciences, silver economy, the mobility of the future and clean growth. As well as industry-leading insights from experts in their fields, attendees can also expect to come away with valuable information regarding the support and funding opportunities available via key industry bodies including Innovate UK and EUREKA to further drive business growth. To find out more information, please visit http://egis2019.org/ - ENDS - About EUREKA EUREKA is a network of public innovation agencies and governments that funds and supports businesses carrying out close-to-market R&D and innovation. Through the network, companies can work with their best partners on innovation projects, wherever they are in the world. About Innovate UK Innovate UK drives productivity and growth by supporting businesses to realise the potential of new technologies, develop ideas and make them a commercial success. For further information and to stay updated on our latest news visit www.gov.uk/innovateuk, follow us on Twitter at @innovateuk or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/InnovateUK. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190509005063/en/ Contacts: Elen Clement, 02074133454 elen.clement@hkstrategies.com Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - May 9, 2019) - TransCanna Holdings Inc. (CSE: TCAN) (FSE: TH8) ("TransCanna" or the "Company") is pleased to announce the execution of a non-binding letter of intent with Persuasion Brewing Co. ("Persuasion" or "PBC"), a private brewing company located in Modesto, California. Both companies have agreed to create a division within TransCanna's recently purchased 196,000-square-foot vertically integrated facility (the "Facility") to establish a Persuasion Brewing division, which will produce a variety of different CBD infusion non-alcoholic beers. Terms of the LOI include TransCanna's exclusive rights to the private labeled beers created at the Facility; a three-year commitment from Persuasion with a 180-day termination provision; compensation due to PBC for services rendered, which is to be determined based on a percentage of sales to dispensaries; and TransCanna to pay for the necessary equipment, including the canning and bottling lines. Both parties agree to adhere to all local and state laws. Completion of the transactions contemplated by the LOI remain subject to negotiation of final terms and completion of definitive documentation. "Our 196,000-square-foot vertically integrated, cannabis-focused facility is perfectly designed to have a comprehensive bottling and canning line for multiple types of beverages. However, we firmly believe that our first beverage product subject to receipt of the appropriate licenses should be a private labeled non-alcoholic CBD-infused beer. We believe it's the least expensive method to generate the greatest margins as quickly as possible, and that will continue to differentiate us from others in the marketplace," stated Jim Pakulis, CEO of TransCanna. "The few companies in California that are currently in the non-alcoholic CBD-infused sector, based on my personal research, have done extremely well financially," stated Chad Swan, president of Persuasion Brewing Co. "TransCanna is supplying the facility, capital, software, distribution and marketing platform, and we'll supply the intellectual property and knowhow to create a superb CBD-infused non-alcoholic beer. We currently have 16 various styles of beer on tap or in kegs, so to expand into this market is a natural fit. And the fact that the brewery is only a five-minute drive to TransCanna's facility makes the logistics of moving equipment and staffing streamlined." The owner of Persuasion, Chad Swan, was a principal of the company that owned the Facility recently purchased by TransCanna. As previously reported, Mr. Swan's company that owned the facility received 1.2 million warrants at US$2.60 and 500,000 restricted shares of TransCanna. About TransCanna Holdings Inc. TransCanna Holdings Inc. is a Canadian-based company focused on providing integrated branding, transportation and distribution services, through its wholly-owned California subsidiaries, to a range of industries including the cannabis marketplace. For further information, please visit the Company's website at www.transcanna.com or email the Company at info@transcanna.com. On behalf of the Board of Directors James Pakulis Chief Executive Officer Telephone: (604) 609-6199 The information in this news release includes certain information and statements about management's view of future events, expectations, plans and prospects that constitute forward looking statements. These statements are based upon assumptions that are subject to significant risks and uncertainties. Because of these risks and uncertainties and as a result of a variety of factors, the actual results, expectations, achievements or performance may differ materially from those anticipated and indicated by these forward looking statements. Forward-looking statements in this news release include, but are not limited to: the potential terms of the transaction, the ability of the Company to complete the transactions contemplated by the LOI and the receipt of necessary permitting. Any number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from these forward-looking statements as well as future results. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in forward looking statements are reasonable, it can give no assurances that the expectations of any forward looking statements will prove to be correct. Except as required by law, the Company disclaims any intention and assumes no obligation to update or revise any forward looking statements to reflect actual results, whether as a result of new information, future events, changes in assumptions, changes in factors affecting such forward looking statements or otherwise. Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Corporate Communications: NetworkWire (NW) New York, New York www.NetworkNewsWire.com 212.418.1217 Office Editor@NetworkWire.com To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/44673 DRESDEN, Germany, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Two new chemistry solutions that use a new green technique to remove toxic metal from wastewater and improve pollination and ecosystem health with the help of butterflies have won the Elsevier Foundation-ISC3 Green and Sustainable Chemistry Challenge. The 2019 first prize winner is Ramia Albakain, Associate Professor at the University of Jordan. The second prize was awarded to Dr. Ankur Patwardhan, Head of the Biodiversity Department at Maharashtra Education Society's Abasaheb Garware College, Pune, India. The Elsevier Foundation-ISC3 Green & Sustainable Chemistry Challenge is a collaboration between the Elsevier Foundation, Elsevier's chemistry journals, and most recently the International Sustainable Chemistry Collaborative Centre (ISC3) - which joins the partnership by contributing new expertise, networks and a third prize for entrepreneurial spirit. The five finalists for the 2019 edition pitched their projects during the 4th Green and Sustainable Chemistry Conference in Dresden, after being selected from over 400 submissions by a jury of experts in the field. "The Challenge's top 5 finalists all presented highly competitive proposals," said Professor Dr. Klaus Kummerer, Chair of the Challenge's scientific jury. "With our decision, we are glad to recognize projects that have the potential to address urgent issues in their communities." The first prize, worth EUR 50,000, was awarded to Dr. Ramia Albakain for her project 'New green technique to remove toxic metal from wastewater'. Due to a landscape where little precipitation occurs, Jordan suffers from year-long water shortages. To tackle these desertic climate challenges, the project showcased environmentally-friendly solutions to use green membranes to treat medical wastewater, making it safe for agricultural irrigation. "Receiving this prize will enable me to not only initiate collaborations in Jordan, but to also do that internationally: I'm looking forward to more opportunities do joint capacity building with my team, for the success of the project," said Dr. Albakain. "The two winning projects of this year's Challenge demonstrate the great impact they can have even beyond their local areas," said Rob van Daalen, Senior Publisher of Chemistry Journals at Elsevier. "By awarding these prizes, we feel that we can truly help the winners take those essential next steps in their work." Dr. Patwardhan was awarded the second prize of EUR 25,000 for his project, 'Butterfly attractant for pollination and ecosystem health'. The project focuses on the plant-pollinator interactions that play a vital role in maintaining ecosystem balance and aims at enhancing floral visits by butterflies through the development of natural attractant formulations. "This prize gives me the energy and confidence to keep going: to serve the community is a priority, and as first step I'll reach to the farmers who have supported the development of the project," said Dr. Ankur Patwardhan. "Through projects such as these, which clearly tackle key UN Sustainable Development Goals around life on land and water security, the Challenge is helping build a stronger, green and sustainable chemistry community, and will boost knowledge exchange around the globe. Though it was difficult to make a choice, all of our finalists are truly winners," said Ylann Schemm, Director of the Elsevier Foundation. Additionally, Mario Heredia Salgado has received the third and newest Challenge prize from ICS3, the 'Entrepreneurial Spirit in Sustainable Chemistry Award'. Dr. Salgado developed a process to produce biochar from agribusiness biomass wastes to improve stressed soils. Mr. Heredia Salgado, a researcher at the Energy Systems and Climate Changes at Aveiro University in Ecuador, received a cash prize of EUR 25,000 plus the onboarding and implantation support of the ISC3's Global Start-up Service. All five of the Finalists will be invited to attend the 2019 ISC3 Green & Sustainable Summer School at Leuphana University in September. For further information about the Green Chemistry Challenge, visit the Elsevier Foundation website, or join the conversation on social media at @ELSchemistry and GREENCHEM2019. Notes for editors Reference sheets for each award winner with a more extensive biography and description of their work are available upon request. For over 60 years, Elsevier has been a leading publisher of chemistry journals and books. We publish highly respected titles, including prestigious society journals, book series, and a range of impressive major reference works. The Green and Sustainable Chemistry Challenge and the related Conference were initiated and are sponsored by the chemistry department. The associated journals are: Current Opinion in Green and Sustainable Chemistry, Sustainable Chemistry and Pharmacy, and (recently launched) Materials Today Sustainability. Dr. Kuemmerer is Director of the Institute of Sustainable Chemistry at Leuphana University Lueneburg and also serves as the scientific director for ISC3, The International Sustainable Chemistry Collaborative, Chair of the Green and Sustainable Chemistry Conference, and is Editor-in-Chief of Elsevier's journals Current Opinion in Green and Sustainable Chemistry and Sustainable Chemistry and Pharmacy. About Leuphana University A university dedicated to freedom and responsibility for the common good, Leuphana is a young university that lays emphasis on innovation, rather than tradition. It is continuously aspiring to create a space stimulated by a collective search for knowledge and sustainable solutions. www.leuphana.de About ISC3 The ISC3 is a globally acting, non-profit organization, multi-stakeholder platform and think tank founded in 2017 on behalf of the German Federal Ministry for the Environment and the German Federal Environment Agency to promote and develop sustainable chemistry solutions worldwide. It manages a knowledge platform and a network of experts, offers training and support for implementation especially for developing countries, carries out innovation scouting activities to discover new technologies, processes and business models. The ISC3 Innovation Hub in cooperation with DECHEMA initiates innovations in the field of sustainable chemistry and supports entrepreneurs through its Global Start-up Service. ISC3 is also active in the field of science and operates as a Research and Education Hub in cooperation with the Leuphana University. www.isc3.org About The Elsevier Foundation The Elsevier Foundation provides grants to knowledge centered institutions around the world, with a sustainability focus on innovations in health information, diversity in STM, research in developing countries and technology for development. Since 2006, the Foundation has awarded more than 100 grants worth millions of dollars to non-profit organizations working in these fields. Through gift-matching, the Foundation also supports the efforts of Elsevier employees to play a positive role in their local and global communities. The Elsevier Foundation is a corporate not-for-profit 501(c)(3), funded by Elsevier, a global information analytics business. www.elsevierfoundation.org About Elsevier Elsevier is a global information analytics business that helps scientists and clinicians to find new answers, reshape human knowledge, and tackle the most urgent human crises. For 140 years, we have partnered with the research world to curate and verify scientific knowledge. Today, we're committed to bringing that rigor to a new generation of platforms. Elsevier provides digital solutions and tools in the areas of strategic research management, R&D performance, clinical decision support, and professional education; including ScienceDirect , Scopus , SciVal , ClinicalKey and Sherpath . Elsevier publishes over 2,500 digitized journals, including The Lancet and Cell , 39,000 e-book titles and many iconic reference works, including Gray's Anatomy . Elsevier is part of RELX Group , a global provider of information and analytics for professionals and business customers across industries. www.elsevier.com Media contact Jonathan Davis +31-20-485-2719 j.davis.1@elsevier.com Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/754760/Elsevier_Logo.jpg Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/884505/Green_Sustainable_Chemistry_Conference.jpg Announcement made in conjunction with discussion "Preserving the Future: Conserving Contemporary Art in the Digital Age" at the Peggy Guggenheim Collection in Venice VENICE, Italy and NEW YORK, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- At a special event at the Peggy Guggenheim Collection in Venice, held on the occasion of the vernissage of the 2019 Venice Biennale, the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum and Foundation announced the establishment of an international fellowship program in the conservation of modern and contemporary art made possible through an endowment by Guggenheim Trustee Vladimir Potanin. To illustrate the range of issues the fellowship program will address, the announcement was made in conjunction with a panel discussion titled "Preserving the Future: Conserving Contemporary Art in the Digital Age," led by Lena Stringari, Deputy Director and Chief Conservator at the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum in New York. The Vladimir Potanin Conservation Fellowship will give an outstanding Russian-speaking conservation professional the opportunity to deeply engage with the work of the Guggenheim for a period of twelve to eighteen months and to consider, through first-hand experience, the role of conservation in an increasingly global world. The program was supported by and developed in collaboration with the Vladimir Potanin Foundation and Vladimir Potanin, a Trustee of the Board of the Solomon R. Guggenheim Foundation since 2002 and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the State Hermitage Museum in St. Petersburg since 2003. Richard Armstrong, Director of the Guggenheim Museum and Foundation, said in a statement: "Ambitious cross-cultural initiatives such as the Vladimir Potanin Conservation Fellowship can ensure that new generations are engaged stakeholders in preserving cultural heritage. Thanks to the generous support and foresight of Vladimir Potanin, this fellowship will contribute significantly to the international field of conservation, encourage new areas of scholarship, and bring together conservators, artists, scientists and historians to explore complex issues around the preservation of materials and methods of modern and contemporary art. We are grateful to our friend and trustee Vladimir Potanin for his generosity, but even more so for his prescience in recognizing the critical need for this work." Vladimir Potanin said in a statement: "In today's world, it is more urgent than ever to develop and support platforms that combine creativity with knowledge, innovation with heritage, and establish dialogue between cultures and communities. Having preservation and conservation as their primary goals, modern museums must address local and global societal issues and share solutions across geographic and political boundaries. The Guggenheim is a leader among museums for its global outlook, intellectual daring, and record of achievement in scholarship and conservation. No institution is better prepared to undertake this fellowship program in modern and contemporary art. I am proud that the Vladimir Potanin Conservation Fellows will contribute to these vital efforts to advance understanding in the field, cultivate new talent, and promote cross-cultural exchange." While in residence at the Guggenheim in New York, the Potanin Conservation Fellow will contribute to ongoing collection research and to preparation for exhibitions in various stages of development, working alongside the Guggenheim Museum's team to learn conservation techniques. The program will be designed to consider Guggenheim priorities as well as those of the fellow's home museum and the fellow's background and interests. The inaugural fellow in 2020 will work closely with Guggenheim conservators on an in-depth study of paintings in the museum's collection by Vasily Kandinsky, to elucidate the artist's methods and to assist in the preparation the canvases for a traveling exhibition. The Conservation Department at the Guggenheim Museum is currently accepting applications for the Vladimir Potanin Conservation Fellowship through its website (www.guggenheim.org/careers); the deadline is June 15, 2019 for a projected January 2020 start date. Under the leadership of Lena Stringari, the Guggenheim's Conservation Department collaborates with curators, scholars, engineers, scientists, and artists by conducting art-historical and scientific research on works in the museum's collection; implementing policies and procedures to ensure the maintenance and long-term preservation of the works; establishing best practices for storage, transportation, and art handling; and undertaking projects designed to address new conservation issues. The Guggenheim's conservation team has made important contributions to the field of time-based media and has developed new methodologies for treating unconventional artworks and for preserving both tangible and intangible resources. Together, these activities in research, treatment, and findings have made the Guggenheim a leader in the field of conservation. The panel discussion "Preserving the Future: Conserving Contemporary Art in the Digital Age" was led by Stringari, who has overseen didactic exhibitions including Imageless: The Scientific Study and Experimental Treatment of an Ad Reinhardt Black Painting (2008) and Jackson Pollock: Exploring Alchemy (2017). She played a key role in formulating the Panza Collection Initiative and the Variable Media Initiative at the Guggenheim. She has served as an adjunct professor at the Institute of Fine Arts, New York University, and has lectured extensively on the conservation of contemporary art. Stringari was joined by: Ysbrand Hummelen , Senior Researcher at the State Heritage Laboratory of the Cultural Heritage Agency of the Netherlands . , Senior Researcher at the State Heritage Laboratory of the Cultural Heritage Agency of . Dimitri Ozerkov , Head of the Contemporary Art Department of the State Hermitage Museum, St. Petersburg , and Head of the Hermitage 20/21 Project for Contemporary Art. , Head of the Contemporary Art Department of the State Hermitage Museum, , and Head of the Hermitage 20/21 Project for Contemporary Art. Alisa Prudnikova , Director of Regional Development of ROSIZO-NCCA (National Centre of Contemporary Art) and Commissioner and Artistic Director of the Ural Industrial Biennial of Contemporary Art About the Vladimir Potanin Foundation The Vladimir Potanin Foundation, one of the largest private grant-making organizations in Russia, was established in 1999 by entrepreneur Vladimir Potanin to implement socially significant long-term projects in education and culture. The mission of the Foundation is to bring together creative professionals who play a key role in solving current public issues and work to develop a culture of strategic philanthropy in Russia. Through joint training programs aimed at strengthening partnerships and networking within the museum-professional community, the Foundation has engaged with such institutions as the Trust for Mutual Understanding, the Robert Bosch Stiftung, the Institut Francais de Russie, la Caixa Foundation, the University of Oxford's Said Business School, and others. The program of cultural leadership run in partnership with the Tretyakov Gallery, Moscow, has featured the participation of cultural leaders from around the world, including Eike Schmidt, Director of the Uffizi Gallery, Florence; filmmaker Alexander Sokurov; Laurence des Cars, Director of the Musee d'Orsay, Paris; Richard Armstrong, Director of the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum and Foundation; and Alistair Spalding, Artistic Director and Chief Executive of Sadler's Wells Theatre, London. Some of the recent projects supported by the Foundation will be showcased at the Venice Biennale, including NEMOSKVA, a project of interregional cooperation in the field of contemporary art that will present an exhibition at BOZAR, Brussels, in July. Many of the projects and programs initiated and administrated by the Foundation have been acknowledged as role models in Russia, and technologies it developed are widely used by other foundations, nongovernmental bodies, and cultural and educational organizations. Over the past twenty years, more than four hundred Russian museums have benefited from the support of the Foundation. About Vladimir Potanin Vladimir Potanin is a Moscow-born businessman, investor, and philanthropist. Throughout his career, Potanin has devoted a major portion of his time and resources to charity projects. In order to structure these efforts effectively, he founded the Vladimir Potanin Foundation in 1999 to foster the development of strategic philanthropy in Russia. In 2010 Potanin made a public commitment to give a majority of his wealth to philanthropic causes, and in 2013 he became the first Russian corporate leader to join the Giving Pledge initiative announced by Bill Gates and Warren Buffett. He has been a Trustee of the Board of the Solomon R. Guggenheim Foundation since 2002 and was elected Chairman of the Board of the State Hermitage Museum in 2003. Along with General Director Mikhail Piotrovsky, Potanin is the founder of the Endowment Fund of the State Hermitage Museum, Saint Petersburg. Potanin has inspired and supported significant projects that promote Russian culture globally, such as the Russian Lounge project in the John F. Kennedy Center for Performing Arts, Washington, D.C., and a major exhibition When Russia Spoke French: Paris-St. Petersburg 1800-1830 at the Hotel des Invalides, Paris (2003). In 2005 the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum presented Russia!, an exhibition supported by the Vladimir Potanin Foundation, which featured more than 275 masterpieces from collections of the State Hermitage Museum; State Russian Museum, Saint Petersburg; Tretyakov Gallery, Moscow; and the Kremlin State Historical and Cultural Museum and Heritage Site, Moscow. In recognition of his role in an extraordinary collective donation of more than 250 works of Soviet and Russian contemporary art to the Centre Pompidou in Paris, the Republic of France inducted Potanin into the Legion d'honneur in 2016. About the Solomon R. Guggenheim Foundation The Solomon R. Guggenheim Foundation was established in 1937 and is dedicated to promoting the understanding and appreciation of modern and contemporary art through exhibitions, education programs, research initiatives, and publications. The Guggenheim international constellation of museums includes the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, New York; the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, Venice; the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao; and the future Guggenheim Abu Dhabi. In 2019, the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum celebrates 60 years as an architectural icon and "temple of spirit" where radical art and architecture meet. To learn more about the museum and the Guggenheim's activities around the world, visit guggenheim.org. Five-megawatt expansion on Profile Park campus opens as nearly half of Irish IT decision-makers remain optimistic on tech sector LONDON, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Digital Realty (NYSE: DLR), a leading global provider of data centre, colocation and interconnection solutions, announced today the official opening of the second data centre on its Profile Park campus in Dublin, Ireland. The five-megawatt expansion provides new and existing customers on the Profile Park campus with additional runway for growth in the capacity-constrained Irish market. The new facility is located 30 minutes from Dublin's city centre, and provides maximum product flexibility with state-of-the-art power, cooling, connectivity, security and system redundancy. The expansion of the Profile Park campus brings Digital Realty's total investment in Ireland to over 200 million, underscoring the company's commitment to the country and confidence in the long-term local demand. Recent research conducted by Censuswide on behalf of Digital Realty found that nearly half (47%) of Irish IT decision-makers are optimistic about the growth of the tech sector in Ireland. The survey of 250 senior Irish IT decision-makers revealed the areas they expect to have the biggest impact over the next five years include Brexit (56%), GDPR (36%), and the rollout of 5G (23%). IT decision-makers do foresee barriers to market growth, however, including bonus taxation (40%), shortage of affordable housing (36%), and a lack of available funding for tech start-ups (32%). Nearly half (46%) of Irish IT decision-makers surveyed see Ireland as a safe harbour for data, with Ireland quickly becoming a leading digital hub for Europe due to its skilled workforce (38%), competitive corporate tax regime (37%), and GDPR (30%). "We are pleased to support our customers' growth with the expansion of our Profile Park campus," said Valerie Walsh, Digital Realty Senior Vice President, Portfolio Management. "Our continued investment in Ireland demonstrates our confidence in the future growth prospects for the technology sector in the region. Our research shows that tech sector decision-makers share this optimism and expect the country will continue to flourish in the years to come." About Digital Realty Digital Realty supports the data centre, colocation and interconnection strategies of more than 2,300 firms across its secure, network-rich portfolio of data centres located throughout North America, Europe, Asia, Australia and South America. Digital Realty's clients include domestic and international companies of all sizes, ranging from financial services, cloud and information technology services, to manufacturing, energy, gaming, life sciences and consumer products. For Additional Information Andrew P. Power Chief Financial Officer Digital Realty (415) 738-6500 Media Inquiries Sue Jones Digital Realty +44 203 873 0145 s.jones@digitalrealty.com Paul Crouch Senior Consultant Teneo +44 7795 226361 Paul.crouch@teneo.com Safe Harbour Statement This press release contains forward-looking statements which are based on current expectations, forecasts and assumptions that involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual outcomes and results to differ materially, including statements related to our Irish data centres, the survey we conducted and our expectations for Ireland and Europe. These risks and uncertainties include, among others, the following: reduced demand for data centres or decreases in information technology spending; decreased rental rates, increased operating costs or increased vacancy rates; increased competition or available supply of data centre space; the suitability of our data centres and data centre infrastructure, delays or disruptions in connectivity or availability of power, or failures or breaches of our physical and information security infrastructure or services; our dependence upon significant customers, bankruptcy or insolvency of a major customer or a significant number of smaller customers, or defaults on or non-renewal of leases by customers; breaches of our obligations or restrictions under our contracts with our customers; our inability to successfully develop and lease new properties and development space, and delays or unexpected costs in development of properties; the impact of current global and local economic, credit and market conditions; our inability to retain data centre space that we lease or sublease from third parties; difficulty acquiring or operating properties in foreign jurisdictions; our failure to realize the intended benefits from, or disruptions to our plans and operations or unknown or contingent liabilities related to, our recent acquisitions; our failure to successfully integrate and operate acquired or developed properties or businesses; difficulties in identifying properties to acquire and completing acquisitions; risks related to joint venture investments, including as a result of our lack of control of such investments; risks associated with using debt to fund our business activities, including re-financing and interest rate risks, our failure to repay debt when due, adverse changes in our credit ratings or our breach of covenants or other terms contained in our loan facilities and agreements; our failure to obtain necessary debt and equity financing, and our dependence on external sources of capital; financial market fluctuations and changes in foreign currency exchange rates; adverse economic or real estate developments in our industry or the industry sectors that we sell to, including risks relating to decreasing real estate valuations and impairment charges and goodwill and other intangible asset impairment charges; our inability to manage our growth effectively; losses in excess of our insurance coverage; environmental liabilities and risks related to natural disasters; our inability to comply with rules and regulations applicable to our company; our failure to maintain our status as a REIT for federal income tax purposes; our operating partnership's failure to qualify as a partnership for federal income tax purposes; restrictions on our ability to engage in certain business activities; and changes in local, state, federal and international laws and regulations, including related to taxation, real estate and zoning laws, and increases in real property tax rates. For a further list and description of such risks and uncertainties, see the reports and other filings by the company with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, including the company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2018. The company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Three WSO2-led EIC sessions will examine the benefits and considerations when choosing open source IAM, Privacy by Design strategies, and PSD2 compliance best practices Mountain View, CA, USA, May 09, 2019), WSO2 CTO and Co-Founder Paul Fremantle will deliver a keynote on the key considerations in choosing an IAM solution and weighing the benefits of an open source approach. WSO2 is a Platinum sponsor of EIC 2019, which will run May 14-17, 2019 at the Infinity BallhausForum in Munich, Germany. In addition to the keynote, WSO2 IAM and Open Banking experts will present sessions on best practices. WSO2 identity experts also will be available at its booth to demonstrate how WSO2 Identity Serverprovides enterprises with a comprehensive IAM open source solution. Keynote on Open Source IAM: Strengths and Opportunities WSO2 CTO and Co-founder Paul Fremantle will examine the importance of adopting a holistic IAM solution to govern and secure the interactions between the increasing number of endpoints in enterprises-from mobile, web and cloud apps to millions of connected devices. He then will explore the factors that need to be considered when choosing an IAM solution. Finally, Paul will review how adopting open source IAM technology can enable greater agility in managing user identities internally and across an enterprise's ecosystem. The keynote will be held from 5:00 p.m. - 5:20 p.m. on Tuesday, May 14, 2019, in the Auditorium. Privacy by Design in System Design Strategy WSO2 Director of IAM, Sagara Gunathunga will explore why enterprises should invest in taking a Privacy by Designprovides a comprehensive, open source IAM solution for managing customer, partner, and employee identities. The software is optimized for identity federation and single source sign-on, which observes that "Identity Management solutions need to address the growing number of identities associated with applications and endpoints, as well as the ability to integrate with the diversity of application and service APIs." In evaluating WSO2 Identity Server, the KuppingerCole report states that, "Using an open source model allows organizations to innovate by extending the open source code base and help avoid vendor lock-in, although it does require an annual subscription to get the full support an enterprise will need." The report further notes that WSO2 Identity Server "takes some innovative approaches to solve identity challenges in the market today making it a product worth being evaluated." The full report can be downloaded here: https://wso2.com/resources/analyst-reports/kuppingercole-executive-view-identity-server-2019-q2/ About KuppingerCole Analysts AG KuppingerCole Analysts AG, founded in 2004, is an international and independent analyst organization headquartered in Europe. The company specializes in offering neutral advice, expertise, thought leadership and practical relevance in Information Security, Identity & Access Managementto learn more. Trademarks and registered trademarks are the properties of their respective owners. The success of Groupe PSA's light commercial vehicle (LCV) strategy requires additional manufacturing capacities Convergence of Opel/Vauxhall LCV models on Groupe PSA platforms to increase efficiency Performance plan set to adapt the Gliwice location to welcome the production of light commercial vehicles Regulatory News: Groupe PSA (Paris:UG): "This good news for Gliwice is a clear demonstration that our Excellent Plant Program is being executed across all European countries with synergies and efficiency. The industrial performance will be a key enabler to serve our ambitions in the commercial vehicle market, guaranteeing our customers the best offer in this segment for all our brands1," added Yann Vincent, Executive Vice-President, Manufacturing Supply Chain. "Welcoming the production of large vans is a major milestone for the future of the Gliwice location and also a big challenge to achieve the highest levels of efficiency and quality for the satisfaction of business customers. We will demonstrate in the years to come our agility to adapt our processes to the production of this type of vehicle and confirm the confidence placed in us," said Andrzej Korpak, who manages the Gliwice Groupe PSA plant. Groupe PSA, the European LCV market leader, intends to further strengthen its market share in Europe and accelerate its development in the other regions. The SevelSud plant (FCA/PSA joint venture located in Val di Sangro, Italy) has exceeded its manufacturing capacities over the last three years with the production of the Peugeot Boxer, Citroen Jumper and Fiat Ducato large vans. The transition of the Opel and Vauxhall brands to the shared large vans platform will require additional production capacities. Groupe PSA has decided to extend its presence in Gliwice in Poland to fully utilize its predisposition and competitiveness. The plant will be transformed to accommodate light commercial vehicles and adapted to the specific platform dedicated to large vans. The investment aims at ensuring the plant's production capacity of up to 100,000 large vans per year. The increase in manufacturing capacities in the large vans segment for the Peugeot, Citroen, Opel and Vauxhall brands will enable Groupe PSA to better supply customers by the end of 2021 and will provide manufacturing visibility for more than a decade in Gliwice. About Groupe PSA Groupe PSA designs unique automotive experiences and delivers mobility solutions to meet all customer expectations. The Group has five car brands, Peugeot, Citroen, DS, Opel and Vauxhall and provides a wide array of mobility and smart services under the Free2Move brand. Its 'Push to Pass' strategic plan represents a first step towards the achievement of the Group's vision to be "a global carmaker with cutting-edge efficiency and a leading mobility provider sustaining lifetime customer relationships". An early innovator in the field of autonomous and connected cars, Groupe PSA is also involved in financing activities through Banque PSA Finance and in automotive equipment via Faurecia. Media library: medialibrary.groupe-psa.com @GroupePSA_EN 1 Peugeot, Citroen, Opel, Vauxhall Communications Division www.groupe-psa.com/en - +33 6 61 93 29 36- @GroupePSA_EN View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190509005390/en/ Contacts: Media contacts: Clarisse Grignard +33 6 65 39 28 49 clarisse.grignard@mpsa.com Nico Schmidt +49 151 2154 5387 nico.schmidt@opel.com Agnieszka Brania +48 666 825 572 agnieszka.brania@opel-vauxhall.com Prefixbox 's NLP capabilities give etailers a boost above their competition BUDAPEST, Hungary, May 09, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Natural Language Processing (NLP) is critical in the competitive world of commerce search where retailers must stay on top of trends to win business. NLP is used by online retailers primarily in search boxes and chat functions as this technology enables computers to process language as it's naturally spoken. Increasingly, shoppers are searching for products the same way they speak to their friends. To provide a great shopping experience, online retailers need technology that supports multiple query formats, so potential customers don't end up on 0-results pages - one of the worst experiences shoppers can have (this happens 20% of the time, on average). In this study, Gartner states that, "To understand intent [of NLP], the specific domain/product set to be searched must also be understood. This helps generate appropriate answers or next questions for the customer as the conversation leads to a product selection." External data shows this is directly correlated with boosting online revenue and conversion rates. eCommerce search is a critical tool in boosting online revenue as it directs shoppers to products they want to buy. "At Prefixbox , we're dedicated to providing advanced, easy-to-integrate commerce search technology. We are proud to be recognized by Gartner for our work in the increasingly more important NLP commerce search space," said Istvan Simon, Prefixbox CEO and founder. Subscribers can find a copy of Gartner's February 2019 Market Guide for Digital Commerce Search here . Gartner Disclaimer Gartner does not endorse any vendor, product or service depicted in its research publications, and does not advise technology users to select only those vendors with the highest ratings or other designation. Gartner research publications consist of the opinions of Gartner's research organization and should not be construed as statements of fact. Gartner disclaims all warranties, expressed or implied, with respect to this research, including any warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose. About Prefixbox Prefixbox is an intelligent eCommerce site search provider for mid to large size enterprises. Their flexible, easy-to-integrate, data driven modules continually learn from user behaviour. Their free, predictive Search Analytics platform serves as a base for their products that provide best-in-class search results. Sales of $10.6 billion decreased 2%, compared to global light vehicle production down 7% Excluding foreign currency translation and acquisitions net of divestitures, sales in each segment outpaced global light vehicle production Returned $403 million to shareholders through dividends of $119 million and $284 million in share repurchases 2019 outlook reduced largely to reflect higher expected costs on certain ADAS programs, lower anticipated equity income in a transmission joint venture in China and lower estimated vehicle production 2021 outlook reduced to reflect lower anticipated equity income in a transmission joint venture in China AURORA, Ontario, May 09, 2019for full first quarter Financial Statements and MD&A. THREE MONTHS ENDED March 31, 2019 March 31, 2018 Reported Sales $ 10,591 $ 10,792 Income from operations before income taxes $ 1,368 $ 851 Net income attributable to Magna International Inc. $ 1,106 $ 660 Diluted earnings per share $ 3.39 $ 1.83 Non-GAAP Financial Measures (1) Adjusted EBIT $ 720 $ 875 Adjusted diluted earnings per share $ 1.63 $ 1.84 All results are reported in millions of U.S. dollars, except per share figures, which are in U.S. dollars (1) Adjusted EBIT, Adjusted diluted earnings per share and Adjusted EBIT as a percentage of sales are Non-GAAP financial measures that have no standardized meaning under U.S. GAAP, and as a result may not be comparable to the calculation of similar measures by other companies. A reconciliation of these Non-GAAP financial measures is included in the back of this press release. A photo accompanying this announcement is available at http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/37152cad-5c19-498a-b786-14da13f0f13b SALE OF FLUID PRESSURE & CONTROLS BUSINESS During the first quarter of 2019, we completed the sale of our Fluid Pressure & Controls business to Hanon Systems for total consideration of $1.23 billion. We reported a gain of $516 million on the transaction and received proceeds, net of transaction costs and income taxes, of $1.1 billion. THREE MONTHS ENDED MARCH 31, 2019 Our Body Exteriors & Structures segment performed better than we anticipated and Complete Vehicles performed in line with our expectations in the first quarter of 2019. Our seating business is launching new business in a new facility and has incurred higher costs than previously anticipated. Our Power & Vision segment was below our expectations largely as a result of higher program engineering and other costs associated with certain new ADAS programs. On a consolidated basis, we posted sales of $10.59 billion for the first quarter of 2019, a decrease of 2% over the first quarter of 2018. This compares to global light vehicle production that decreased 7%, led by a 17% decline in China, and a 3% decline in each of North America and Europe. Excluding the impact of foreign currency translation and acquisitions net of divestitures, consolidated sales increased 3%, and by segment: Complete Vehicles and Seating increased 26% and 2% respectively, Power & Vision decreased 1% and Body Exteriors & Structures decreased 3%. Adjusted EBIT decreased 18% to $720 million in the first quarter of 2019 resulting in an adjusted EBIT as a percentage of sales of 6.8% in the first quarter of 2019 compared to 8.1% in the first quarter of 2018. This margin decline reflects: lower margins in our Power & Vision segment, largely driven by higher engineering and other costs in our electronics business, and lower equity income; lower margins in our Seating segment as a result of higher costs on the launch of new seating programs and lower production volumes on certain programs; and an increase in the proportion of sales generated in our Complete Vehicles segment relative to total sales, which have significantly lower margins than our consolidated average. These factors were partially offset by higher margins in our Body Exteriors & Structures segment primarily as a result of lower launch costs and productivity and efficiency improvements at certain facilities. Income from operations before income taxes was $1,368 million for the first quarter of 2019 compared to $851 million in the first quarter of 2018. Included in Income from operations before income taxes in the first quarter of 2019 were Other (income) expense, net items totaling $679 million comprised of a gain on the sale of our Fluid Pressure & Controls business and an unrealized gain on the revaluation of our investment in Lyft, partially offset by restructuring costs. Income from operations before income taxes in the first quarter of 2018 included Other expense of $3 million. Excluding Other (income) expense, net from both periods, income from operations before income taxes decreased $165 million in the first quarter of 2019 compared to the first quarter of 2018. Net income attributable to Magna International Inc. was $1,106 million for the first quarter of 2019 compared to $660 million in the first quarter of 2018. Included in net income attributable to Magna International Inc. in the first quarter of 2019 were Other (income) expense, net items totaling $575 million after tax. Net income attributable to Magna International Inc. in the first quarter of 2018 included Other expense of $3 million after tax. Excluding Other (income) expense, net from both periods, net income attributable to Magna International Inc. decreased $132 million in the first quarter of 2019 compared to the first quarter of 2018. Diluted earnings per share increased to $3.39 in the first quarter of 2019, compared to $1.83 in the comparable period. Adjusted diluted earnings per share decreased 11% to $1.63 compared to $1.84 for the first quarter of 2018. In the first quarter of 2019, we generated cash from operations before changes in operating assets and liabilities of $888 million, and invested $294 million in operating assets and liabilities. Investment activities for the first quarter of 2019 were $333 million, including $251 million in fixed asset additions and an $82 million increase in investments, other assets and intangible assets. RETURN OF CAPITAL TO SHAREHOLDERS During the three months ended March 31, 2019, we paid dividends of $119 million. In addition, we repurchased 5.6 million shares for $284 million in the first quarter of 2019. Yesterday, our Board of Directors declared a quarterly dividend of $0.365 with respect to our outstanding Common Shares for the quarter ended March 31, 2019. This dividend is payable on June 7, 2019 to shareholders of record on May 24, 2019. A photo accompanying this announcement is available at http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/c78a2f11-25da-4786-8139-3a93159c9a80 SEGMENT SUMMARY ($Millions unless otherwise noted) For the three months ended March 31, Sales Adjusted EBIT 2019 2018 Change 2019 2018 Change Body Exteriors & Structures $ 4,308 $ 4,619 $ (311 ) $ 363 $ 343 $ 20 Power & Vision 3,083 3,190 (107 ) 216 359 (143 ) Seating Systems 1,433 1,470 (37 ) 94 130 (36 ) Complete Vehicles 1,928 1,660 268 28 19 9 Corporate and Other (161 ) (147 ) (14 ) 19 24 (5 ) Total Reportable Segments $ 10,591 $ 10,792 $ (201 ) $ 720 $ 875 $ (155 ) For the three months ended March 31, Adjusted EBIT as a percentage of sales 2019 2018 Change Body Exteriors & Structures 8.4 % 7.4 % 1.0 % Power & Vision 7.0 % 11.3 % (4.3 )% Seating Systems 6.6 % 8.8 % (2.2 )% Complete Vehicles 1.5 % 1.1 % 0.4 % Consolidated Average 6.8 % 8.1 % (1.3 )% For further details on our segment results, please see our Management's Discussion and Analysis of Results of Operations and Financial Position and our Interim Financial Statements. UPDATED 2019 OUTLOOK Current Previous Light Vehicle Production (Units) North America 16.7 million 17.0 million Europe 21.5 million 22.3 million Segment Sales Body Exteriors & Structures $16.3 - $17.1 billion $16.8 - $17.6 billion Power & Vision $11.0 - $11.6 billion $11.2 - $11.8 billion Seating Systems $5.5 - $5.9 billion $5.8 - $6.2 billion Complete Vehicles $6.9 - $7.3 billion $6.9 - $7.3 billion Total Sales $39.1 - $41.3 billion $40.2 - $42.4 billion Adjusted EBIT Margin(2) 6.7% - 7.0% 7.3% - 7.6% Equity Income (included in EBIT) $150 - $195 million $195 - $240 million Interest Expense, net Approximately $100 million Approximately $100 million Income Tax Rate(3) Approximately 24% Approximately 24% Net Income attributable to Magna $1.9 - $2.1 billion $2.1 - $2.3 billion Capital Spending Approximately $1.7 billion Approximately $1.7 billion (2) Adjusted EBIT Margin is the ratio of Adjusted EBIT to Total Sales. (3) The Income Tax Rate has been calculated using Adjusted EBIT and is based on current tax legislation. In this 2019 outlook, we have assumed: 2019 light vehicle production volumes (as set out above); no material unannounced acquisitions or divestitures; and foreign exchange rates for the most common currencies in which we conduct business relative to our U.S. dollar reporting currency as follows: 1 Canadian dollar equals U.S. dollars 0.743 1 euro equals U.S. dollars 1.124 UPDATED 2021 OUTLOOK FOR EQUITY INCOME AND ADJUSTED EBIT MARGIN PERCENTAGE We have updated our 2021 outlook for one of our transmission joint ventures in China. Equity income has been reduced by $70 million as a result of lower than expected production volumes on programs to supply transmissions. We now expect equity income in 2021 to be between $220 million and $275 million, compared to a range of between $290 million and $345 million previously, as set out in our outlook dated January 15, 2019. As a result of our reduced equity income outlook we now expect our 2021 Adjusted EBIT margin percentage to be in the 7.9% to 8.3% range, compared to a previous range of 8.1% to 8.5%, as provided in January. We have made no other updates to our 2021 outlook from January, including updates in assumptions with respect to total light vehicle production volumes, material unannounced acquisitions and divestitures and foreign exchange rates. To the extent that these assumptions change, our outlook may be further impacted. NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES RECONCILIATION Adjusted EBIT The following table reconciles net income to Adjusted EBIT: For the three months ended March 31, 2019 2018 Net Income $ 1,101 $ 669 Add: Interest expense, net 31 21 Other (income) expense, net (679 ) 3 Income taxes 267 182 Adjusted EBIT $ 720 $ 875 Adjusted EBIT as a percentage of sales ("Adjusted EBIT margin") Adjusted EBIT as a percentage of sales is calculated in the table below: For the three months ended March 31, 2019 2018 Sales $ 10,591 $ 10,792 Adjusted EBIT $ 720 $ 875 Adjusted EBIT as a percentage of sales 6.8 % 8.1 % Adjusted diluted earnings per share The following table reconciles net income attributable to Magna International Inc. to Adjusted diluted earnings per share: For the three months ended March 31, 2019 2018 Net income attributable to Magna International Inc. $ 1,106 $ 660 Add (less): Other (income) expense, net (679 ) 3 Tax effect on Other (income) expense, net 104 - Adjusted net income attributable to Magna International Inc. $ 531 $ 663 Diluted weighted average number of Common Shares outstanding during the year (millions): 326.3 359.9 Adjusted diluted earnings per share $ 1.63 $ 1.84 Certain of the forward-looking financial measures in this press release are provided on a Non-GAAP basis. In addition to Adjusted EBIT and Adjusted EBIT Margin (as defined in the Updated 2019 Outlook above), free cash flow has also been discussed. Free cash flow represents cash from operating activities plus proceeds from normal course dispositions of fixed and other assets minus capital spending minus investments in other assets. We do not provide a reconciliation of such forward-looking measures to the most directly comparable financial measures calculated and presented in accordance with U.S. GAAP. To do so would be potentially misleading and not practical given the difficulty of projecting items that are not reflective of on-going operations in any future period. The magnitude of these items, however, may be significant. This press release together with our Management's Discussion and Analysis of Results of Operations and Financial Position and our Interim Financial Statements are available in the Investor Relations section of our website at www.magna.com/investors and filed electronically through the System for Electronic Document Analysis and Retrievalas well as on the United States Securities and Exchange Commission's Electronic Data Gathering, Analysis and Retrieval System. We will hold a conference call for interested analysts and shareholders to discuss our first quarter ended March 31, 2019 results on Thursday, May 9, 2019 at 8:30 a.m. EST. The conference call will be chaired by Don Walker, Chief Executive Officer. The number to use for this call from North America is 1-800-954-0587. International callers should use 1-312-281-2942. Please call in at least 10 minutes prior to the call start time. We will also webcast the conference call at www.magna.com. The slide presentation accompanying the conference call will be available on our website prior to the call. TAGS Quarterly earnings, record quarter, financial results, sales growth INVESTOR CONTACT Louis Tonelli, Vice-President, Investor Relations louis.tonelli@magna.com 905.726.7035 MEDIA CONTACT Tracy Fuerst, Director of Corporate Communications & PR tracy.fuerst@magna.com 248.631.5396 OUR BUSINESS (4) We are a mobility technology company. We have more than 169,000 entrepreneurial-minded employees and 338 manufacturing operations and 89 product development, engineering and sales centres in 28 countries. We have complete vehicle engineering and contract manufacturing expertise, as well as product capabilities which include body, chassis, exterior, seating, powertrain, active driver assistance, electronics, mirrors & lighting, mechatronics and roof systems. Magna also has electronic and software capabilities across many of these areas. Our common shares trade on the Toronto Stock Exchange (MG) and the New York Stock Exchange (MGA). (4) Manufacturing operations, product development, engineering and sales centres and employee figures include certain equity-accounted operations. FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS Certain statements in this press release constitute "forward-looking information" or "forward-looking statements" (collectively, "forward-looking statements") and are intended to provide information about management's current expectations and plans. Such forward-looking statements may not be appropriate for other purposes. Forward-looking statements may include financial and other projections, as well as statements regarding our future plans, strategic objectives or economic performance, or the assumptions underlying any of the foregoing, and other statements that are not recitations of historical fact. We use words such as "may", "would", "could", "should", "will", "likely", "expect", "anticipate", "believe", "intend", "plan", "aim", "forecast", "outlook", "project", "estimate", "target" and similar expressions suggesting future outcomes or events to identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements in this press release include, but are not limited to, statements relating to: Our expectations for development, validation, testing and other costs related to our advanced driver assistance systems; Our ability to outpace production in our markets; Cash flow expectations; Magna's forecast of light vehicle production in North America and Europe; Expected consolidated sales, based on such light vehicle production, including expected split by segment in our Body Exteriors & Structures; Power & Vision; Seating Systems; and Complete Vehicles segments; Consolidated Adjusted EBIT margin; Consolidated equity income; Net interest expense; Effective income tax rate; Adjusted net income; Fixed asset expenditures; and Future returns of capital to our shareholders, including through dividends and share repurchases. Our forward-looking statements are based on information currently available to us, and are based on assumptions and analyses made by us in light of our experience and our perception of historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments, as well as other factors we believe are appropriate in the circumstances. While we believe we have a reasonable basis for making such forward-looking statements, they are not a guarantee of future performance or outcomes. Whether actual results and developments conform to our expectations and predictions is subject to a number of risks, assumptions and uncertainties, many of which are beyond our control, and the effects of which can be difficult to predict, including, without limitation: Risks Related to the Automotive Industry economic cyclicality; regional production volume declines; intense competition; potential restrictions on free trade; trade disputes/tariffs; Customer and Supplier Related Risks concentration of sales with six customers; shifts in market shares among vehicles or vehicle segments; shifts in consumer "take rates" for products we sell; quarterly sales fluctuations; potential loss of any material purchase orders; a deterioration in the financial condition of our supply base; Manufacturing Operational Risks product and new facility launch risks; operational underperformance; restructuring costs; impairment charges; labour disruptions; supply disruptions; climate change risks; attraction/retention of skilled labour; IT Security Risk IT/Cybersecurity breach; Pricing Risks pricing risks between time of quote and start of production; price concessions; commodity costs; declines in scrap steel prices; Warranty / Recall Risks costs to repair or replace defective products; warranty costs that exceed warranty provision; costs related to a significant recall; Acquisition Risks inherent merger and acquisition risks; acquisition integration risk; Other Business Risks risks related to conducting business through joint ventures; our ability to consistently develop and commercialize innovative products or processes; our changing business risk profile as a result of increased investment in electrification and autonomous driving, including: higher R&D and engineering costs , and challenges in quoting for profitable returns on products for which we may not have significant quoting experience; and challenges in quoting for profitable returns on products for which we may not have significant quoting experience; risks of conducting business in foreign markets; fluctuations in relative currency values; tax risks; reduced financial flexibility as a result of an economic shock; changes in credit ratings assigned to us; Legal, Regulatory and Other Risks antitrust risk; legal claims and/or regulatory actions against us; and changes in laws and regulations, including those related to vehicle emissions. In evaluating forward-looking statements or forward-looking information, we caution readers not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking statement, and readers should specifically consider the various factors which could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those indicated by such forward-looking statements, including the risks, assumptions and uncertainties above which are discussed in greater detail in this document under the section titled "Industry Trends and Risks" and set out in our Annual Information Form filed with securities commissions in Canada and our annual report on Form 40-F filed with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission, and subsequent filings. Deploys Nucleus Vision's proprietary sensor technology in GAP, Nautica & U.S. Polo Assn. stores to offer a personalized shopping experience to consumers MUMBAI, India, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- As modern-day shoppers are inclining more towards personalization, Indian clothing retail chain Arvind Fashions Limited is exploring new ways to understand their customers better. Arvind, a licensee of numerous international fashion brands, has signed an MoU with Nucleus Vision, an IoT & Blockchain company, to initiate a pilot project aiming to offer a personalized experience to their shoppers. Following the partnership, Arvind will implement Nucleus Vision's proprietary sensor technology in their Gap, Unlimited and U. S. Polo. Assn. stores to strengthen customer analytics. "We see tremendous interest from the customers for a more evolved and personalized shopping experience. Nucleus Vision's revolutionary technology will give us valuable insights into our customer behavior, which will help us improve customer satisfaction and increase revisits," saidRukaiya Rangwala, COO, Digital Centre of Excellence, Arvind Fashions Limited. "We look forward to expanding the scope of our relationship with Arvind Fashions Limited. This is a big step towards our goal to associate with the leading players in the Indian retail market to help them create better shopper experience," saidAbhishek Pitti, Founder & CEO of Nucleus Vision. The current Indian retail market amounts to an approximate of USD 800 billion and is estimated to reach USD 1.1 trillion by 2020. Personalization plays a major role in the gigantic market as 63% of Indian consumers prefer personalized experience, according to a report by Forrester-Epsilon. Through this association with Nucleus Vision, Arvind Fashions Limited intends to offer its consumers a more personalized retail shopping experience and therefore tap into new opportunities. About Arvind Fashions Limited Arvind Fashions Limited is India's largest fashion and retail company, home to over 20 national and international brands. With 1500 stand-alone stores and 5000 departmental and multi-brand stores across India, Arvind Fashions Limited is a pioneer in introducing global brands into India. The company has successfully introduced ARROW, the first international menswear brand in India in 1993 and today licenses several brands like GAP, GANT, Nautica, Aeropostale, U.S Polo Association, The Children's Place, Ed Hardy, Sephora among others. Arvind Fashions was responsible for establishing Flying Machine, India's first iconic, home-grown youth apparel brand in 1980. The company also houses its own leading brands like Unlimited, True Blue, The Arvind Store, among others. With unique capabilities in sourcing, design, product development, strong distribution footprint, retail capabilities, channel linkages and management teams, Arvind Fashions is a trendsetter across segments- casualization, tweens, kids, beauty and athleisure. For more information, please visit www.arvind-fashions.com About Nucleus Vision Founded in 2014 at Harvard University, Nucleus Vision (www.nucleus.vision) is an end-to-end technology solution provider that captures & provides previously inaccessible data to retailers & 'brick and mortar' businesses through blockchain & real-time sensor technology. Nucleus Vision is backed by Tim Draper, IndusAge Partners, and several other prominent industry players. Nucleus Vision has offices in San Francisco, USA, and Hyderabad, India. Media Contact: Nilanjana Dey nilanjana@nucleus.vision Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - May 9, 2019) - On national TV Sat May 11 & Sun May 12, 2019 - BTV- Business Television visits five cannabis companies for your watchlist. Full Episode Trulieve Cannabis Corp. (CSE: TRUL) - Analyst Matt Bottomley from Canaccord Genuity Group weighs in on this company that has 27 locations in Florida and is in the top three revenue producing, publicly traded cannabis stocks. See Feature Biome Grow Inc. (CSE: BIO) (OTCQB: BIOIF) - BTV visits this company focused on the underserviced Maritime provinces, who also entered a supply agreement with CBD Acres in the largest hemp-derived CBD deal to date. See Feature Captor Capital Corp. (CSE: CPTR) (OTCQX: CPTRF) - BTV goes to its first California trade show to visit Captor's wholly owned subsidiary, Chai Cannabis Co., focused on vertical integration with a seed to sale mentality. See Feature TransCanna Holdings Inc. (CSE: TCAN) - BTV unveils how their large California facility will become their own self-contained ecosystem to grow, manufacture and distribute cannabis. See Feature The Yield Growth Corp. (CSE: BOSS) (OTCQB: BOSQF) - BTV shares how Yield Growth, with key management from MAC and Johnson & Johnson, is developing and marketing topical and therapeutic beauty and wellness products infused with cannabis and hemp root oil. See Feature BTV, a half-hour weekly investment program, profiles emerging companies across Canada and the US to bring investors information for their portfolio. With Hosts Taylor Thoen and Jessica Katrichak, BTV interviews experts, top analysts, plus features companies at their location giving investors an insightful business perspective. BTV BROADCAST TIMES: CANADA: BNN Bloomberg - Saturday May 11 @ 8:00pm EST, Sunday May 12 @ 4:30pm EST Bell Express Vu - Saturday May 11 @ 8:00pm EST, Sunday May 12 @ 4:30pm EST Air Canada: TV Seatback: Business Channel U.S. National: Biz Television Network - Sun May 19 @ 5:30am, 6pm & 9:00pm PST, Tues May 21 @ 5:00pm & 8:00pm PST Discover Companies to Invest in Submit a Company for upcoming BTV episodes: Contact: (604) 664-7401 x3 info@b-tv.com To receive news, click here to subscribe. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/44658 SHANGHAI, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- 2019 China Brand Development Summit, the first activity of the "May 10 China Brand Day", was held in east China'sShanghai on Thursday. "May 10 China Brand Day" was hosted by Xinhua News Agency, Economic Daily, China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT), CCBD, and China Appraisal Society, and co-hosted by China Economic Information Service (CEIS) and other institutions. At the summit, the China brand value evaluation list was released, with the Chinese bank ICBC ranking first for its brand value of about 293 billion yuan. The list has been released for six years in a row. It is reported that 1,293 brand candidates participated in the brand evaluation this year with 589 brands making it on this list. Their combined brand value totals about 7.4 trillion yuan. According to the evaluation results, ICBC ranks first in the enterprise brand value list, with a brand value of about 293 billion yuan. Kweichow Moutai wins the top spot in the geographical indication regional brand value list, with its brand value of about 288 billion yuan. Geely Auto Group occupies the highest position in the product brand value list, with a brand value of about 31.4 billion yuan. Dali Foods has the highest value among the technological innovation brands, with a brand value of about 20 billion yuan. Tsingtao Brewery with a brand value of about 43 billion yuan is far ahead among the China time-honored brands. At present, 20 percent of the world's well-known brands have boasted an 80-percent market share, and the developed countries have entered the era of brand economy. It has become a top priority to accelerate "going global" of Chinese brands and promote high-quality economic development, said Liu Pingjun, chairman of the China Council for Brand Development (CCBD). Experts at the summit also pointed out that it is necessary to take multiple measures to help cultivate world-class brands. Xu Kunlin, deputy mayor of Shanghai, pointed out that Shanghai is building a new model for brand evaluation featuring third-party voluntary certification, taking actions to revitalize the local time-honored brands, and actively promoting the brand cultivation demonstration project. In addition, the media has also played an important role in enhancing the brand value. In June 2017, Xinhua launched the "National Brands Project" to help promote Chinese enterprise brand development. Werbehinweise: Die Billigung des Basisprospekts durch die BaFin ist nicht als ihre Befurwortung der angebotenen Wertpapiere zu verstehen. Wir empfehlen Interessenten und potenziellen Anlegern den Basisprospekt und die Endgultigen Bedingungen zu lesen, bevor sie eine Anlageentscheidung treffen, um sich moglichst umfassend zu informieren, insbesondere uber die potenziellen Risiken und Chancen des Wertpapiers. Sie sind im Begriff, ein Produkt zu erwerben, das nicht einfach ist und schwer zu verstehen sein kann. Seattle, Washington--(Newsfile Corp. - May 9, 2019) - CFN Media Group ("CFN Media"), the leading agency and financial media network dedicated to the North American cannabis industry, announces publication of an article covering an exclusive interview with Will Stewart, Senior Vice President of Corporate and Public Affairs for Harvest One Cannabis Inc. (TSXV: HVT). The cannabis market is rapidly maturing in Canada, where analysts project the market could reach C$22.6 billion over the coming years. While prices remain high at the moment, there's no doubt that cannabis flower and concentrates will start to commoditize and prices will fall over the coming years. The best investments are companies that are well-positioned to ride out these trends and maintain competitive barriers and profit margins. Harvest One Cannabis Inc. (TSXV: HVT) Senior Vice President of Corporate and Public Affairs, Will Stewart, recently sat down with CannabisFN to discuss the evolving industry and what sets the company apart from the hundreds of other licensed producers. Cannot view this video? Visit: https://youtu.be/SvJsq3CrNb0 Canada's Built-in Advantage Canada has become the de-facto leader in cannabis following its decision to legalize adult-use and medical cannabis on a federal level-becoming the first G7 nation to do so. Unlike the United States, Mr. Stewart points out that most Canadians welcome government regulations and these regulations are quickly setting a new standard that could eventually become the industry guidelines for other countries. Given these dynamics, Canada's licensed producers are well positioned to become global players. Canopy Growth's recent acquisition of Acreage Holdings underscores these trends, but at the core, the biggest advantage enjoyed by licensed producers is their expertise in growing high-quality product under tight regulation. This skill could become invaluable as other countries begin the legalization process and open the door to cannabis opportunities. That said, Mr. Stewart points out that there are still some challenges facing Canada. The country continues to have tight regulations on branding and packaging, which makes it difficult to build a consumer following. The country's upcoming elections in October could also impact the industry if the Conservative government regains control. Mr. Stewart suggests that it's up to the industry to remain above-board and avoid politicization ahead of the elections. Please click here to receive a Harvest One Investor Deck & Corporate Updates A Global House of Brands Harvest One is a Canadian licensed producer, but unlike many of its peers, it's not trying to become the largest producer. Instead, the company has focused its efforts on building a global house of brands that consumers know and trust. The company plans on continuing to build high-quality recreational cannabis brands through its United Greeneries subsidiary, but its true potential is much broader and focused on branding and distribution. The company's Swiss subsidiary, Satipharm, is already manufacturing and marketing cannabidiol (CBD) based Gellpill products across the European Union and Australia. At the same time, the company's Dream Water liquid sleep shots are already distributed in about 30,000 stores across the United States and Canada. The company also recently acquired Delivera, whose topicals and creams are already available across Canada. The company plans to infuse cannabinoids, namely CBD, into these products that already have widespread distribution to become an overnight leader in the health, wellness and beauty segments of the cannabis industry. While Canada's branding regulations remain strict at the moment, there's a near-term opportunity to build these brands in the United States, where the Farm Bill opened the door to CBD products without packaging limitations. Please Click Here to Receive a Harvest One Investor Deck & Corporate Updates Looking Ahead Harvest One Cannabis Inc.'s (TSXV: HVT) focus on building a house of brands could help insulate it from the commoditization affecting other licensed producers. With an existing portfolio of consumer brands, the company hopes to infuse these products with CBD and other cannabinoids and leverage existing distribution channels to become an overnight market leader in the health, wellness and beauty industry subsets. The company's near-term focus is on infusing its existing brands with cannabinoids, completing the construction of its projects in Duncan and Lucky Lakes, and getting its new greenhouse license in Ontario. For more information, visit the company's website at www.harvestone.com. Please click here to receive a Harvest One Investor Deck & Corporate Updates Click here to read the full article: https://www.cannabisfn.com/harvest-one-outlines-ambitious-plans-in-exclusive-cfn-interview/ About CFN Media For Visitors and Viewers CFN Media's Cannabis Financial Network (CannabisFN.com) is the destination for savvy investors and business people profiting from the worldwide cannabis industry. Viewers will see breaking news, exclusive content and original programming involving the people, companies and investments shaping the industry. For Cannabis Businesses & Companies CFN Media is a leading agency and financial media network dedicated to the cannabis industry. We help private, pre-public and public cannabis companies in the US and Canada attract capital, investors and media attention. Our powerful digital media and distribution platform conveys a company's message and value proposition directly to accredited and retail investors and national media active in the North American cannabis markets. Since 2013, CFN Media has enabled the world's preeminent cannabis companies to thrive in the capital and public markets. Learn how to become a CFN Media client company, brand or entrepreneur: http://www.cannabisfn.com/featuredcompany Disclaimer CannabisFN.com is not an independent financial investment advisor or broker-dealer. You should always consult with your own independent legal, tax, and/or investment professionals before making any investment decisions. The information provided on http://www.cannabisfn.com (the 'Site') is either original financial news or paid advertisements drafted by our in-house team or provided by an affiliate. CannabisFN.com, a financial news media and marketing firm enters into media buys or service agreements with the companies that are the subject of the articles posted on the Site or other editorials for advertising such companies. We are not an independent news media provider. We make no warranty or representation about the information including its completeness, accuracy, truthfulness or reliability and we disclaim, expressly and implicitly, all warranties of any kind, including whether the Information is complete, accurate, truthful, or reliable. As such, your use of the information is at your own risk. Nor do we undertake any obligation to update the items posted. CannabisFN.com received compensation for producing and presenting high quality and sophisticated content on CannabisFN.com along with financial and corporate news. The above article is sponsored content. Emerging Growth LLC, which owns CannabisFN.com and CFN Media, has been hired to create awareness. Please follow the link below to view our full disclosure outlining our compensation: http://www.cannabisfn.com/legal-disclaimer/ Contact CFN Media Frank Lane 206-369-7050 flane@cannabisfn.com To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/44681 ALBANY, New York, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- An intense competition among different scale of players has been noticed in the global water based inks market, says Transparency Market Research (TMR). In this fragmented competitive landscape, the topmost players and companies in the global water based inks market are focusing on delivering different types of inks to attract customers' eyes. A few names of renowned companies in the global water based inks market include Siegwerk Duckfarben AG & Co., Doneck Euroflex S.A., Wikoff Color Corporation., and Dolphin Inks. Consistently producing and delivering high quality water-based inks is a key strategy to success to a wide range of companies in the market. The well-established companies in the global water based inks market have recognized two important requirements in the printing industry: highly technical oriented approach to water-based ink manufacturing and tailor-made inks to maximize pressroom efficiencies. Moreover, these companies in the global water based inks market are acquiring joint ventures with well-known vendors to sustain the high competition. Their goal is to expand the geographical boundaries to gain prominence in the global water based inks market. Get a Sample of Global Water based Inks Market: https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=S&rep_id=65102 TMR's analysts' estimation reveals that the global water based inks market is anticipated to rise at a promising 6.45% CAGR during 2019-2027. The market hit valuation of US$5,107.1 mn in 2018. Experts project that the market will register valuation of US$8,951.8 mn by the end of the assessment period. In terms of technology, the flexography segment is gaining traction in the global water based inks market and is executed to remain highly lucrative during the assessment tenure. Flexographic inks showcase extensive adherence to the substrate surface and delivers amazing printing quality, regardless of the substrate material. On the regional front, Asia Pacific is dominating the global water based inks market in terms of value and volume. However, mushrooming industrialization is also responsible for making this region lead the market. Request For Multiple Chapters: https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=MC&rep_id=65102 Rapid Growth in Flexible Packaging to Foster Market A water-based ink can be defined as a special type of ink, which usually contains dyes or pigment in a colloidal suspension and the water plays role as solvent. Although, during the process of producing water-based inks, the prime solvent utilized is water, however, the inks may also contain various co-solvents. These co-solvents are used to decrease the time and heat required for curing ink film on fabric. Water-based inks are popular due to its color, flow behavior, good surface appearance, performance, and gloss. All these features are fueling growth in the global water based inks market. Along with this, water-based ink products have lower inflammability ratings and easier to clean, thanks to the rapid advancements in technology. All such USPs are also driving the global water based inks market. Request a Custom Report: https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=CR&rep_id=65102 Furthermore, soaring demand for unique printing inks and rapid growth in flexible packaging are also the major factors contributing demand in the global water based inks market. Rapid use of water-based inks help in reducing the amount of hazardous waste. Therefore, growing environment and safety issues is also providing major impetus to the growth of the global water based inks market. Slow Drying and Printing Speed Obstructs Market's Growth Although, the water based inks exhibit several superior properties, due to which it is widely adopted in various industries, but this ink is highly restricted in alkaline environments. Additionally, water based inks cannot wet and print smoothly on complex substrates because of the water component's high surface energy. These are the couple of factors majorly hampering the growth of the global water based inks market. Nonetheless, utilization of resins in water based ink formulation offer potential growth opportunities in the market. Request For Discount On This Report: https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=D&rep_id=65102 The review is based on a market research report by TMR, titled, "Water based Inks Market (Resin Type - Acrylic, Polyester, Maleic, Others; Technology - Flexographic, Gravure, Digital; Application - Packaging, Publication, Tags and Labels) - Global Industry Analysis, Size, Share, Growth, Trends, and Forecast 2019 - 2027". The segmentation of global water based inks market is based on: Resin Type Acrylic Polyester Maleic Others (including Polyurethane and Phenolic) Technology Flexography Gravure Digital Others (including Screen Printing, Sheet-fed Printing, and Offset Printing) Application Packaging Publication Tags & Labels Others (including Decorative and Product) Region North America Europe Asia Pacific Latin America Middle East & Africa Browse Chemicals and Materials Market Research Reports Popular Research Reports by TMR: UV Cured Printing Inks Market: https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/uv-cured-printing-inks-market.html https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/uv-cured-printing-inks-market.html Conductive Inks Market: https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/conductive-ink-market.html https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/conductive-ink-market.html Printing Inks Market: https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/north-america-printing-inks-market.html https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/north-america-printing-inks-market.html Solvent-based Inks Market: https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/solvent-based-inks-market.html About Us Transparency Market Research is a next-generation market intelligence provider, offering fact-based solutions to business leaders, consultants, and strategy professionals. Our reports are single-point solutions for businesses to grow, evolve, and mature. Our real-time data collection methods along with ability to track more than one million high growth niche products are aligned with your aims. The detailed and proprietary statistical models used by our analysts offer insights for making right decision in the shortest span of time. For organizations that require specific but comprehensive information we offer customized solutions through adhoc reports. These requests are delivered with the perfect combination of right sense of fact-oriented problem solving methodologies and leveraging existing data repositories. TMR believes that unison of solutions for clients-specific problems with right methodology of research is the key to help enterprises reach right decision. Contact Mr. Rohit Bhisey Transparency Market Research State Tower, 90 State Street, Suite 700,Albany NY - 12207 United States Tel: +1-518-618-1030 USA - Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453 Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.com Website: http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com Research Blog: http://www.europlat.org/ Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/664869/Transparency_Market_Research_Logo.jpg ROCKVILLE, Maryland, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Fact.MR has published a fresh study titled "Big Data Analytics in Healthcare Market Forecast, Trend Analysis & Competition Tracking - Global Market insights 2017 to 2026", to its broad online repository.The primary purpose of this assessment is to pilot readers about the different projections associated to the global big data analytics in healthcare market. The confidence put in by several healthcare organizations towards big data analytics is already supporting the development of the concerned market. Based on this valuation, the global big data analytics in healthcare market is likely to exhibit 17.7% CAGR during 2017-2026. Furthermore, over US$ 45,000 Mn revenues is expected to be secured from worldwide sales during the stated forecast period. Big Data Analytics Set to Motivate Precision Medicine Research Precision medicine has the potential to swing from the one-size-fits-all approach with the use of patient-specific therapeutics as well as utilizing large amount of data seized from tools such as mobile biometric sensors, genomics, and smartphone apps. With the availability of health data, doctors are gaining capacity to build predictive models along with better patient profiles assisting effective anticipation, diagnosis and treatment of different diseases. Furthermore, leading partnerships and collaborations among healthcare organizations and researchers have led to active developments in data pools that can be later used for assembling improved personalized healthcare models. Request For Sample Report- https://www.factmr.com/connectus/sample?flag=S&rep_id=369 APEJ Region to Remain Profitable during Forecast Period According to this Fact.MR study, Asia-Pacific excluding Japan (APEJ) is likely to continue as the fast-expanding and advantageous market for big data analytics in healthcare. Furthermore, North America and Europe are also showing signs to emerge as lucrative regions in the near future. The big data analytics in healthcare market across Latin America and Japan are expected to showcase relatively higher CAGR as compared to those recorded in North America and Europe, even though accounting for moderately lower revenues during the stated forecast period. Browse Full Report on Big Data Analytics in Healthcare Market with TOC- https://www.factmr.com/report/369/big-data-analytics-healthcare-market Government Engagement Paving Positive Path for Big Data Analytics in Healthcare Market The inclination and dependency towards electronic medical records, along with favorable government policies has significantly motivated the implementation of big data analytics in healthcare sector. However, most of the medical professionals do not hold the necessary skill set for leveraging information provided by big data analytics. This aspect behaves as a major restraint for the development of the target market. In order to make corrections, government and healthcare organizations are focusing on suitable training of professionals so as to make them capable to utilize the obtained data in an evocative manner and smartly draft healthcare policies. Competitive Landscape With the conclusion of the report study, readers can receive quick insights associated to the competitive scenario active across the global big data analytics in healthcare market. Considering the present status of the target market surrounding mergers and partnerships among prominent players, the road to development is surely golden. Have Any Question? Ask Our Industry Experts- https://www.factmr.com/connectus/sample?flag=AE&rep_id=369 Talking about new marker entrants, there can be several barriers like high deployment cost as well as difficulty to handle the pressure from well-established players on the grounds of quality and innovation. Some of the prime market players mentioned in the report are IBM Corporation, Microsoft Corp, OptumHealth Care Solutions, McKesson, Verisk Analytics, MedeAnalytics, Oracle Corp, Allscripts Healthcare Solutions, Cisco Systems Inc., Zephyr Health, Infosys, Alteryx, SAP SE, SAS Institute and Denodo Technologies Inc. Popular ICT Industry Reports from Fact.MR Serial Device Server Market- In terms of revenue, the global serial device server market is expected to represent an incremental opportunity of US$ 76.1 Mn by 2018 end over 2027. Identity Theft Protection Services Market- The identity theft protection services market remains highly-competitive at the bottom level and moderately-competitive at top and middle levels. The emerging players or tier 3 players of the market account for a sizeable revenue share and remain highly oriented toward new product launches and acquisition strategies. Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems Market- The automated storage and retrieval systems market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 7.6% during the period 2018-2028, according to a report by Fact.MR. Sensing the rising awareness among industrial end-users about the extraordinary benefits of employing warehouse automation technologies, the Fact.MR report opines that the automated storage and retrieval systems market will witness excellent growth in coming years. About Fact.MR Fact.MR is a fast-growing market research firm that offers the most comprehensive suite of syndicated and customized market research reports. We believe transformative intelligence can educate and inspire businesses to make smarter decisions. We know the limitations of the one-size-fits-all approach; that's why we publish multi-industry global, regional, and country-specific research reports. Contact Us Rohit Bhisey Fact.MR 11140 Rockville Pike Suite 400 Rockville, MD 20852 United States Email: sales@factmr.com Web: https://www.factmr.com/ SHANGHAI, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- The 29th China International Bicycle Fair ("China Cycle" for short) was held in Shanghai, from May 6-9, 2019. Hongji's creative product "Feilong Cycle" developed by the original Mobike hardware team stood out among the 50 selected works, winning the creative gold award. The exhibition was co-held by the China Bicycle Association and the China Organizing Committee of International Bicycle Fair. The event displayed China's bike manufacturing ability, especially focusing on corporate product design, manufacturing techniques, applied materials, etc. Bikes winning the award represent the top level of manufacturers in the industry. Hongji's "Feilong Cycle" adopts a mortise-and-tenon structure, instead of a traditional welded module, reducing transportation and packing costs. The structure can be disassembled quickly. The bike has a unique sporty style. In addition, it features a single arm shaft drive structure. Compared with shaft-driven bikes on the market, the angle between its central shaft and drive shaft is 85 versus 90, optimizing the speed ratio. Its segmented connections increase the strength, reducing structural deformations. The bike is compatible with both solid tires and pneumatic tires. Hongji is the inventor of the new single arm shaft drive system and the owner of the patent. Hongji was established by Xu Hongjun, the original Vice President of Mobike in charge of hardware research and development, including a large part of original hardware engineers. Co-founders include Wang Miao, Wang Chao, Wu Jun, Fan Feng, who worked for top vehicle manufacturing enterprises such as Mercedes Benz and FAW-Volkswagen. Hongji "Feilong Cycle" won the Gold Award at China Cycle for Innovation, demonstrating the company's strength in providing intelligent transportation solutions. As the development of micro transportation tools is determined by product design and manufacturing capability, Hongji has an advantage. The company announced that it will sell Hongji E-bikes in the European market from the third quarter of this year. http://www.hongjibike.com/ Hydro66 will deliver colocation data center services to ComDaTe, a national provider of IT, telecoms and security solutions to Enterprises Boden, Sweden--(Newsfile Corp. - May 9, 2019) - Hydro66 Holdings Corp. (CSE: SIX) (OTCQB: HYHDF) ("Hydro66" or the "Company") is pleased to announce the signing of another new Systems Integrator partner. ComDaTe is a cloud service provider and specialist services for IT Networks, telecoms and mobile, and alarm, security and surveillance to national public and private sector clients. They will partner with Hydro66 to provide secure data center colocation services with a 100% uptime service level agreement for them and their clients. Jens Bergman Area Manager at ComDaTe commented, "Through our partnership with Hydro66 we are able to offer our 1,500 customers in Sweden a secure and sustainable service for hosting their data. Adding together our offerings has created a robust and competitive package that will deliver a complete solution to our customers." Hydro66 will work closely to deliver managed colocation data center services in a service provider partnership. Key features are flexible density planning, 24/7 physical security, guaranteed power and carrier-neutral network availability and temperature/humidity guarantees. Anne Graf, CEO, Hydro66 commented, "Hydro66 is absolutely thrilled to begin a new partnership with another highly respected Swedish company. Like us, ComDaTe are 100% committed to the highest standards of reliability, security and of course data center uptime. Bringing a new data center proposition to their large client base will accelerate their digitalisation plans." For additional information, contact: investors@hydro66.com About Hydro66 Hydro66 owns and operates an award-winning colocation data center in Sweden specializing in High Performance Computing ("HPC") hosting. The Company hosts third party IT infrastructure, utilizing 100% green power, at amongst the EU's lowest power prices and within an ISO27001 accredited facility. Hydro66 is uniquely positioned to capitalize on opportunities in blockchain infrastructure as well as the traditional Enterprise colocation data center market. The Company provides truly green power at a leading price, purpose-built space and cooling, telecoms, IT support services and 24/7 physical security in their facility in Boden, Sweden. www.hydro66.com Forward-Looking Information Certain information set forth in this news release may contain forward-looking statements that involve substantial known and unknown risks and uncertainties. All statements other than statements of historical fact are forward-looking statements, including, without limitation, statements regarding future financial position, business strategy, use of proceeds, corporate vision, proposed acquisitions, partnerships, joint-ventures and strategic alliances and co-operations, budgets, cost and plans and objectives of or involving the Company. Such forward-looking information reflects management's current beliefs and is based on information currently available to management. Often, but not always, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as "plans", "expects", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "predicts", "intends", "targets", "aims", "anticipates" or "believes" or variations (including negative variations) of such words and phrases or may be identified by statements to the effect that certain actions "may", "could", "should", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved. A number of known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors may cause the actual results or performance to materially differ from any future results or performance expressed or implied by the forward-looking information. These forward-looking statements are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, certain of which are beyond the control of the Company including, but not limited to, the impact of general economic conditions, industry conditions and dependence upon regulatory approvals. Certain material assumptions regarding such forward-looking statements may be discussed in this news release and the Company's annual and quarterly management's discussion and analysis filed at www.sedar.com. Readers are cautioned that the assumptions used in the preparation of such information, although considered reasonable at the time of preparation, may prove to be imprecise and, as such, undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements. The Company does not assume any obligation to update or revise its forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, except as required by securities laws. Neither the CSE nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the CSE) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/44657 VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / May 9, 2019 / Strategic Metals Ltd. (TSX-V: SMD) ("Strategic" or the "Company") is pleased to announce its exploration plan for summer 2019. The plan includes diamond drilling at three projects and surface work on several others, which is designed to advance those projects to drill-readiness. The announced plan represents Phase 1 of a larger program that is expected to continue into fall, dependent upon Phase 1 results and market conditions. Diamond drilling is scheduled to start in late June at the Meloy, Sixty Mile and Hartless Joe properties, as described in the following paragraphs and at the Company's website, www.strategicmetalsltd.com. The Meloy property is located 45 km northwest of the Alaska Highway and 15 km northeast of the Gladstone Creek placer gold district, in southwestern Yukon. The main exploration target is a porphyry copper-silver-gold-molybdenum system that is marked by an intense multi-element geochemical anomaly. Deep holes will test beneath surface oxidization across the core of the geochemical anomaly. The Sixty Mile property lies within the second largest placer gold district in Yukon. It is road accessible and is located 70 km west of Dawson City. The property covers a 20 km strike length of a major fault, which localized magmatism and mineralization in the district. Strategic's 2019 drilling will test around an epithermal vein intersected in an isolated 2011 hole, which graded 132.9 g/t gold over 1.5 m. Drilling will also test an area with very low resistivity and coincident copper-molybdenum-gold-silver soil geochemistry, which were identified after the last drill program was conducted. The Hartless Joe property is located 22 km east of Whitehorse in southern Yukon. It hosts numerous high grade gold silver showings associated with steeply dipping epithermal veins and sub-horizontal quartz zones that may be exhalite horizons. The showings span a 6 km by 3.5 km area that remains open to new discoveries. The proposed holes will test beneath mineralization in hand trenches and talus trains, and across a chargeability high that coincides with a broad, strong soil geochemical anomaly. "The 2019 drilling is expected to confirm the potential of these prospects and provide valuable insights that will guide future drilling," states Doug Eaton, Strategic's President and CEO. "The surface exploration at other projects will be done concurrently and is important because it will better define the targets, reducing risks prior to drilling. Strategic is focusing on projects that are camp-scale and have potential for multi-million ounce gold discoveries." About Strategic Metals Ltd. Strategic is a project generator with a portfolio of more than 130 projects that are the product of over 50 years of focussed exploration and research by a team with a track record of major discoveries. Projects available for option, joint venture or sale include drill-confirmed prospects and drill-ready targets with high-grade surface showings, geochemical anomalies and geophysical features that resemble those at nearby deposits. Strategic has a current cash position of over $8 million and large shareholdings in a number of active mineral exploration companies including 45.3% of GGL Resources Corp., 41.8% of Rockhaven Resources Ltd., 27.7% of Precipitate Gold Corp., 17.9% of Silver Range Resources Ltd., 9.1% Trifecta Gold Ltd., and 6.4% of ATAC Resources Ltd. ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD "W. Douglas Eaton" President and Chief Executive Officer For further information concerning Strategic or its various exploration projects please visit our website at www.strategicmetalsltd.com or contact: Corporate Information W. Douglas Eaton President and C.E.O. Tel: (604) 688-2568 Investor Inquiries Richard Drechsler V.P. Communications Tel: (604) 687-2522 NA Toll-Free: (888) 688-2522 rdrechsler@strategicmetalsltd.com http://www.strategicmetalsltd.com Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. This news release may contain forward looking statements based on assumptions and judgments of management regarding future events or results that may prove to be inaccurate as a result of exploration and other risk factors beyond its control, and actual results may differ materially from the expected results. SOURCE: Strategic Metals Ltd. View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/544749/Strategic-Metals-Ltd-Announces-2019-Drilling Phoenix, Arizona--(Newsfile Corp. - May 9, 2019) - Excelsior Mining Corp. (TSX: MIN) (FSE: 3XS) (OTCQX: EXMGF) ("Excelsior" or the "Company") is pleased to confirm that four successful wellfield pump tests have been completed at the Gunnison Copper Project ("Gunnison"), in southeast Arizona. The Company is also providing a comprehensive mine construction update. Excelsior remains on scheduled for first copper production in Q4 2019. Excelsior's President & CEO Stephen Twyerould said, "Our pre-production pump tests have demonstrated hydraulic conductivity that is entirely consistent with our previous hydraulic and economic models. All elements of construction are progressing as per our timetable; first copper production remains on schedule for the end of this year." Mr. Twyerould added, "Excelsior also congratulates Taseko Mines on successfully plating copper cathode at their Florence Copper facility in Arizona. Florence Copper is the only other large-scale in-situ copper recovery project in development today, and Taseko's success adds to Arizona's exclusive history of low-cost in-situ copper mining." Excelsior's pump tests were conducted using a total of 34 wells for each test, and all results received to date are consistent with the Company's hydraulic model. These tests consist of drawdown from a central production well, followed by the measurement of the response to this drawdown as seen in the surrounding wells. Information gathered from these pump tests will be used to further optimize production flow rates. Copper mineralization at Excelsior's North Star deposit exists on the surfaces of naturally broken host rock that forms fractured veins cutting through the entire geological system. These veins create an interconnected network that makes the entire deposit permeable. During production, Excelsior will use diluted acid to extract the copper from these fracture veins using the deposits natural permeability to transport fluids. Hydraulic conductivity is crucial to the in-situ mining process, and Excelsior's pre-production pump tests have reconfirmed that the conditions at Gunnison are ideal for in-situ copper extraction. Construction Update Powerline: Installation of a new 69kV transmission line is largely complete; the only section of powerline that remains to be installed is that which will traverse the interstate highway. The new powerline is anticipated to be fully operational by June 2019. Wellfield: The drilling program is progressing well, with two drilling contractors and five drill rigs currently on site. A total of 57 wells, including 41 production wells and 16 compliance wells totaling over 73,000 feet will be completed. The initial wellfield area will be 400 feet by 400 feet with a spacing of approximately 70 feet between injection and production wells. To date, a total of 33 wells have been drilled. Drilling of the production wellfield is expected to be completed by July 2019. Pipeline: Construction of a two-mile pipeline corridor connecting the processing facilities at the Johnson Camp Mine (JCM) to the production wellfield is closing in on completion. Currently, crews are using the Jack & Bore excavation process of horizontal drilling to install a pipeline under the I10 Highway and this process is now over 50% complete. The entire pipeline is expected to be completed by the end of July 2019. Acid Storage Tanks: These new facilities have been designed to enable the Company to store sulfuric acid and provide operational flexibility. Three acid storage tanks are under construction; each tank has capacity to hold 2500 tons of sulphuric acid. The general contractor has completed the tank foundations, finished casting the concrete containment slab and began forming and pouring concrete for the acid tank containment walls. All three tanks are at their completed heights and the tops are now being installed. Ponds: A total of 230,000 of 260,000 cubic yards have been excavated from the evaporation pond. In parallel, the pregnant leach solution (PLS) pond is nearly complete with 50% of the double contained liner in place. All ponds are expected to be ready by the end of June 2019. JCM SX-EW Facility Upgrades: Ongoing civil work is now over 80% complete; this includes earthworks associated with the installation of new pipes, fixing the retaining wall, and rebuilding the crud tank. Electrical grounding remains on-going, and new rectifiers are expected to arrive on site in July 2019. The JCM SX-EW plant was fully refurbished in 2007 and remains in excellent condition. Staff Ramp Up: Management, technical and administrative personnel have been contracted or hired for the initial construction phase and will ramp-up accordingly in order to operate the production facility. There are currently 61 employees on site. About Excelsior Mining Excelsior "The Copper Solution Company" is a mineral exploration and development company that is advancing the Gunnison Copper Project in Cochise County, Arizona. The project is an advanced staged, low cost, environmentally friendly in-situ recovery copper extraction project that is fully-permitted to 125 million pounds per year of copper cathode production. The Feasibility Study projected an after-tax NPV of US$ 807 million and an IRR of 40% using a US$ 2.75 per pound copper price and a 7.5% discount rate. Excelsior's technical work on the Gunnison Copper Project is supervised by Stephen Twyerould, Fellow of AUSIMM, President & CEO of Excelsior and a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101. Mr. Twyerould has reviewed and approved the technical information contained in this news release. Additional information about the Gunnison Copper Project can be found in the technical report filed on SEDAR at www.sedar.com entitled: "Gunnison Copper Project, NI 43-101 Technical Report, Feasibility Study" dated effective December 17, 2016. For more information on Excelsior, please visit our website at www.excelsiormining.com. For further information regarding this press release, please contact: Excelsior Mining Corp. Concord Place, Suite 300, 2999 North 44th Street, Phoenix, AZ, 85018. JJ Jennex, Vice President, Corporate Affairs T: 604 723 1433 E: info@excelsiormining.com www.excelsiormining.com Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information This news release contains "forward-looking information" concerning anticipated developments and events that may occur in the future. Forward looking information contained in this news release includes, but is not limited to, statements with respect to: (i) the results of the Feasibility Study, including operating and capital cost estimates and the economic benefits from the Gunnison Copper Project; (ii) the details of the various construction activities that are being or will be undertaken on the Gunnison Copper Project and their timeline for completion; and (iii) the ability to mine the Gunnison Copper Project using in-situ recovery mining techniques. In certain cases, forward-looking information can be identified by the use of words such as "plans", "expects" or "does not expect", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", or "believes", or variations of such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might", "occur" or "be achieved" suggesting future outcomes, or other expectations, beliefs, plans, objectives, assumptions, intentions or statements about future events or performance. Forward-looking information contained in this news release is based on certain factors and assumptions regarding, among other things, the estimation of mineral resources and mineral reserves, the realization of resource and reserve estimates, copper and other metal prices, the timing and amount of future development expenditures, the estimation of initial and sustaining capital requirements, the estimation of labour and operating costs, the progress of construction activities, receipt of and compliance with necessary regulatory approvals, the estimation of insurance coverage, and assumptions with respect to currency fluctuations, environmental risks, title disputes or claims, and other similar matters. While the Company considers these assumptions to be reasonable based on information currently available to it, they may prove to be incorrect. Forward looking information involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking information. Such factors include risks inherent in the construction of mineral deposits, including risks relating to changes in project parameters as plans continue to be redefined including the possibility that mining operations may not commence at the Gunnison Copper Project, risks relating to variations in mineral resources and reserves, grade or recovery rates, risks relating to the ability to access infrastructure, risks relating to changes in copper and other commodity prices and the worldwide demand for and supply of copper and related products, risks related to increased competition in the market for copper and related products, risks related to current global financial conditions, uncertainties inherent in the estimation of mineral resources, access and supply risks, reliance on key personnel, operational risks inherent in the conduct of mining activities, including the risk of accidents, labour disputes, increases in capital and operating costs and the risk of delays or increased costs that might be encountered during the construction process, regulatory risks, financing, capitalization and liquidity risks, risks related to disputes concerning property titles and interest, environmental risks and the additional risks identified in the "Risk Factors" section of the Company's reports and filings with applicable Canadian securities regulators. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual actions, events or results to differ materially from those described in forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause actions, events or results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. The forward-looking information is made as of the date of this news release. Except as required by applicable securities laws, the Company does not undertake any obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking information. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/44662 The Bluetooth HeartCheck CardiBeat and GEMS Mobile Smartphone App will Target Home, Outpatient, Telemedicine and Cardiac Arrhythmia Monitoring Markets Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - May 9, 2019) - CardioComm Solutions, Inc. (TSXV: EKG) ("CardioComm" or the "Company"), a global provider of consumer heart monitoring and electrocardiogram ("ECG") acquisition and management software solutions, has received approval from Health Canada for the over-the-counter ("OTC") sales and marketing of its existing GEMS Mobile smartphone app and for the HeartCheck CardiBeat, its newest handheld heart rhythm monitor. Both devices were cleared by the Food and Drug Administration ("FDA") in early 2019. The Company is very pleased with the rapid approval of the HeartCheck CardiBeat ECG monitor application, which was submitted to Health Canada on April 11, 2019. The GEMS Mobile Smartphone ECG app is cleared under pre-existing GEMS software approvals. The Bluetooth-enabled and rechargeable CardiBeat easily enables anyone to take a medical-grade ECG recording by simply holding the device in both hands or by holding the device in the right hand and placing it against the left side of their chest. The GEMS Mobile app manages ECGs recorded by HeartCheck devices and provides near-real-time feedback through the generation of a free ECG report, which can be shared with a physician. For those looking for feedback on their ECGs, GEMS Mobile provides access to CardioComm's SMART Monitoring ECG reading service. This service provides a professional ECG review to confirm the presence or absence of a number of potential arrhythmias. CardioComm's ECG pricing is highly competitive compared to other service offerings, and includes a new pricing of U$S1.99 for an ECG Triage offered with a response time as rapid as 30 minutes. ECG connectivity is also possible directly to the Company's GEMS WIN software, which is used by 15 Canadian Hospitals allowing for the opportunity for patients to be monitored directly by physicians and healthcare professionals. Unlike the US market, availability of personal ECG monitoring devices in Canada is limited, since companies intending to sell such devices must hold ISO certification in compliance with the more demanding Medical Device Single Audit Program ("MDSAP") requirements. CardioComm completed its MDSAP certification in 2018, thereby solidifying the Company's abilities to produce and sell its cardiac monitoring software and hardware innovations to consumers and to serve as a preferred importer, distributor and reseller of other manufacturers' hospital and ECG medical devices. GEMS Mobile is available on Apple's App Store and on Google Play and is free with the purchase of a HeartCheckTM ECG device. To learn more about CardioComm's products please see the Company's websites at www.theheartcheck.com and www.cardiocommsolutions.com. About CardioComm Solutions CardioComm Solutions' patented and proprietary technology is used in products for recording, viewing, analyzing and storing electrocardiograms for diagnosis and management of cardiac patients. Products are sold worldwide through a combination of an external distribution network and a North American-based sales team. CardioComm Solutions has earned the ISO 13485 certification, is HIPAA compliant and holds clearances from the European Union (CE Mark), the USA (FDA) and Canada (Health Canada). FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT: Etienne Grima, Chief Executive Officer 1-877-977-9425 x227 egrima@cardiocommsolutions.com investor.relations@cardiocommsolutions.com Forward-looking statements This release may contain certain forward-looking statements and forward-looking information with respect to the financial condition, results of operations and business of CardioComm Solutions and certain of the plans and objectives of CardioComm Solutions with respect to these items. Such statements and information reflect management's current beliefs and are based on information currently available to management. By their nature, forward-looking statements and forward-looking information involve risk and uncertainty because they relate to events and depend on circumstances that will occur in the future and there are many factors that could cause actual results and developments to differ materially from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements and forward-looking information. In evaluating these statements, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and forward-looking information. The Company does not assume any obligation to update the forward-looking statements and forward-looking information contained in this release other than as required by applicable laws, including without limitation, Section 5.8(2) of National Instrument 51-102 (Continuous Disclosure Obligations). Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/44687 Halifax, Nova Scotia--(Newsfile Corp. - May 9, 2019) - Sona Nanotech Inc.'s (CSE: SONA) mission to advance medical diagnostics took a step forward today with the announcement of a collaboration with the University of Birmingham in the UK to develop next generation nanorods for tissue imaging. The goal of the project, which is being led by Zoe Pikramenou, Professor of Inorganic Chemistry and Photophysics at the University of Birmingham, is to investigate whether gold nanorods can eventually be used to target cancer cells in the human body. The first step will be the creation of luminescent nanorods by functionalising gold nanorods provided by Sona with transition metals using technology created by Professor Pikramenou's team. Professor Pikramenou said: "The scientific community is only just beginning to explore the exciting potential of gold nanoparticles in medical applications such as diagnostics, drug delivery and cancer treatment. With its unique CTAB-free gold nanorods, Sona Nanotech has produced an innovative next-generation product that is ideally suited for these applications, which is why we have such high hopes for this collaborative project." Professor Pikramenou runs an interdisciplinary research programme on Photophysics in Nanoscience and Biomolecular Chemistry using supramolecular design and synthesis, coordination chemistry, luminescence spectroscopy and imaging. Professor Pikramenou and her team will establish the functionalisation with metal complexes, examine the imaging in cells and tissue to evaluate differences in uptake with conventional nanoparticles and evaluate the attachment of antibodies for specific targeting of cancer tissues using techniques established in the group. Sona Nanotech CEO Darren Rowles said: "This collaboration, with an internationally-renowned professor at a leading global university, demonstrates the high level of interest in Sona's innovative technology. We are delighted to be working with Zoe and her team and are excited to see what we can achieve together." Compared to other gold nanoparticles, gold nanorods have several advantages, including high surface area, unique physical, chemical and optical properties, biocompatibility and the ability to be conjugated with other molecules. This enables them to be used in more efficient drug targeting and delivery and enhanced bio-imaging, which is driving market demand. The global gold nanoparticles market is anticipated to reach USD $1.52 billion by 2026 and is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 10.2% from 2018 to 2026. [1] Cancer is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. It is expected that the number of new cases of cancer per year will rise to 23.6 million by 2030. This alarming rise demands cutting edge research to develop targeted therapy for treatment of various kinds of cancer. [2] [1] https://markettalknews.com/the-global-gold-nanoparticles-market-is-anticipated-to-reach-usd-1-52-billion-by-2026-and-is-anticipated-to-grow-at-a-cagr-of-10-2-from-2018-to-2026/ [2] https://www.cancer.gov/abour-cancer/understanding/statistics Corporate board update Sona Nanotech Inc. held its Annual General and Special Meeting of shareholders in Halifax on April 25, at which shareholders elected five people to serve as Directors of the company for the forthcoming year. Chairman of the Board Jim Megann and Director A. Neil Smith decided not to re-offer to serve as Board members. Sona Nanotech Inc. would like to put on record its sincere thanks to Mr Megann and Mr Smith for their service. Mr Megann was a long-serving director of Sona Nanotech and Mr Smith served through the merger between Stockport Exploration Inc. and Sona. Wade Dawe, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Numus Financial Inc. and the President of Brigus Capital Inc., and Michael Gross, Professor of Orthopaedic surgery at Dalhousie University, were subsequently elected as Directors. Mr. Dawe is an accomplished entrepreneur, financier and investor based in Halifax, Nova Scotia. During his career, he has completed deals valued in excess of $1 billion, and he has founded or co-founded a number of successful companies, both public and private. Mr. Dawe is the Chairman and CEO of Numus Financial Inc. and President of Brigus Capital Inc. In addition, Mr. Dawe is CEO and a Board Member of Torrent Capital Ltd., and serves as Chairman of the Board for Pivot Technology Solutions Inc. Dr. Gross has extensive capital markets experience, having served as either an executive or as a director with a number of venture stage companies. Dr. Gross was a founder of Linear Gold, Linear Metals and stayed through the development of the company to Brigus Gold before its sale to Primero. He is now a board member of Fortune Bay. He is currently the Chair of the Board of Boomerswork, a startup company working to provide a platform of benefits for Boomers as they transition from work to retirement. About Sona Nanotech Inc. Sona Nanotech Inc. is a nanotechnology life sciences firm that has developed two proprietary methods for the manufacture of rod-shaped gold nanoparticles. The principal business carried out and intended to be continued by Sona is the development and application of its proprietary technology for use in multiplex diagnostic testing platforms that will improve performance over existing tests in the market. Sona's gold nanorod particles are CTAB (cetyltrimethylammonium bromide) free, eliminating the toxicity risks associated with the use of other gold nanorod technologies in medical applications. It is expected that Sona's gold nanotechnologies may be adapted for use in applications, as a safe and effective delivery system for multiple medical treatments, pending the approval of various regulatory boards including Health Canada and the FDA. Sona is a publicly listed company on the Canadian Securities Exchange existing under the laws of Nova Scotia, with its operations in Nova Scotia. About Prof Zoe Pikramenou Zoe Pikramenou runs an active interdisciplinary research programme on Photophysics in Nanoscience and Biomolecular Chemistry using supramolecular design and synthesis, coordination chemistry, luminescence spectroscopy and imaging. The research area has received an internationally recognised profile with invited lectures at international and national congresses covering a breadth of chemical areas, publications in leading internationally scientific journals. She has worked on international collaborations with leading scientists in interdisciplinary projects involving chemistry, physics and chemical engineering, medical and computer sciences. She has received research grants from EPSRC, MRC, Leverhulme Trust, the Royal Society for developing programmes on supramolecular wires, luminescent nanoparticles in biology and EPSRC Discipline Hopping Awards with Chemical Engineering, which fostered research in nanoparticle detection in liquid flows. https://www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools/chemistry/people/navigation.aspx?ReferenceId=11289&Name=dr-zoe-pikramenou For More Information For more information about Sona, please contact: Darren Rowles President and Chief Executive Officer Telephone: (902) 442-7192 Email: Darren Rowles darren@sonanano.com FORWARD LOOKING INFORMATION This press release contains forward-looking statements and information that are based on the beliefs of management and reflect the Company's current expectations. When used in this press release, the words "estimate", "project", "belief", "anticipate", "intend", "expect", "plan", "predict", "may" or "should" and the negative of these words or such variations thereon or comparable terminology are intended to identify forward-looking statements and information. The forward-looking statements and information in this press release includes information relating to the Amalgamation (including the structure of the Amalgamation), the Amalgamation (including shareholder approval, shareholder support, and other terms), the Private Placement (including its completion and the use of proceeds from the Private Placement), the directors and management of the resulting issuer upon completion of the Amalgamation, and the implementation of Sona's business plan. Such statements and information reflect the current view of the Company with respect to risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from those contemplated in those forward-looking statements and information. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause our actual results, performance or achievements, or other future events, to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such factors include, among others, the following risks: risks associated with the completion of the Amalgamation and matters relating thereto; and risks associated with the marketing and sale of securities, the need for additional financing, reliance on key personnel, the potential for conflicts of interest among certain officers or directors, and the volatility of the Company's common share price and volume. Forward-looking statements are made based on management's beliefs, estimates and opinions on the date that statements are made and the Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements if these beliefs, estimates and opinions or other circumstances should change. Investors are cautioned against attributing undue certainty to forward-looking statements. There are a number of important factors that could cause the Company's actual results to differ materially from those indicated or implied by forward-looking statements and information. Such factors include, among others, risks related to Sona's proposed business, such as failure of the business strategy and government regulation; risks related to Sona's operations, such as additional financing requirements and access to capital, reliance on key and qualified personnel, insurance, competition, intellectual property and reliable supply chains; risks related to Sona and its business generally, such as infringement of intellectual property rights and conflicts of interest. The Company cautions that the foregoing list of material factors is not exhaustive. When relying on the Company's forward-looking statements and information to make decisions, investors and others should carefully consider the foregoing factors and other uncertainties and potential events. The Company has assumed a certain progression, which may not be realized. It has also assumed that the material factors referred to in the previous paragraph will not cause such forward-looking statements and information to differ materially from actual results or events. However, the list of these factors is not exhaustive and is subject to change and there can be no assurance that such assumptions will reflect the actual outcome of such items or factors. While the Company may elect to, it does not undertake to update this information at any particular time. THE FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS PRESS RELEASE REPRESENTS THE EXPECTATIONS OF THE COMPANY AS OF THE DATE OF THIS PRESS RELEASE AND, ACCORDINGLY, IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE AFTER SUCH DATE. READERS SHOULD NOT PLACE UNDUE IMPORTANCE ON FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION AND SHOULD NOT RELY UPON THIS INFORMATION AS OF ANY OTHER DATE. WHILE THE COMPANY MAY ELECT TO, IT DOES NOT UNDERTAKE TO UPDATE THIS INFORMATION AT ANY PARTICULAR TIME EXCEPT AS REQUIRED IN ACCORDANCE WITH APPLICABLE LAWS NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/44647 Frontline Ltd.'s preliminary first quarter 2019 results will be released on Thursday May 16 2019, and a webcast and conference call will be held at 3:00 p.m. CET (9:00 a.m U.S. Eastern Time). The results presentation will be available for download from the Investor Relations section at www.frontline.bm ahead of the conference call. In order to attend the conference call you may do one of the following: a. Webcast Go to the Investor Relations section at www.frontline.bm and follow the "Webcast" link. b. Conference Call Participant dial-in telephone numbers: Norway +47 2156 3162 Norway toll free 800 10392 UK +44 (0) 203 009 5710 UK Toll Free 0 800 376 7425 USA +1 917 720 0178 USA Toll Free 866 869 2321 Conference ID 5865398 Participants will be asked for their full name & Conference ID. A Q&A session will be held after the teleconference/webcast. Information on how to submit questions will be given at the beginning of the session. The presentation material which will be used in the teleconference/webcast can be downloaded from www.frontline.bm. Replay details (available for 7 days) UK LocalCall 0 844 571 8951 UK FreeCall 0 808 238 0667 Std International +44 (0) 333 300 9785 Norway 21 03 42 35 USA +1 (917) 677-7532 USA Toll Free +1 (866) 331-1332 Conference ID 5865398 Participant information required: Full name & company This information is subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to section 5 -12 of the Norwegian Securities Trading Act. This announcement is distributed by West Corporation on behalf of West Corporation clients. The issuer of this announcement warrants that they are solely responsible for the content, accuracy and originality of the information contained therein. Source: Frontline Ltd. via Globenewswire Financialnewsmedia.com News Commentary PALM BEACH, Florida, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Global spending in the retail cannabis market is expected to grow 38% in 2019 to $16.9 billion, according to analysts at Arcview Group, growing to $31.3 billion by 2022. "Despite the speed bumps in Canada and California, the basic story line prompting an explosion of investment in the industry in 2018 remains intact," said Tom Adams, managing director and principal analyst at BDS Analytics. "The gradual legalization around the world of a plant which humans have been happily consuming for millennia is creating one of the largest industry-growth phenomena." Some of the top companies in the industry include High Tide Inc. (CSE:HITI) (OTC:HITIF), Trulieve Cannabis Corporation (CSE:TRUL) (OTC:TCNNF), Green Growth Brands Inc. (CSE:GGB) (OTC:GGBXF), Westleaf Inc. (TSX-V:WL) (OTC:WSLFF) and Fire & Flower Holdings Corporation (TSX-V:FAF) (OTC:FFLWF). High Tide Inc. (CSE:HITI) (OTCQB:HITIF) BREAKING NEWS: High Tide just announced that it has been licensed to open their 14th and 15th Canna Cabana retail stores, which are located in Fort Saskatchewan, Alberta and Lacombe, Alberta. Having met all municipal business requirements, the new stores are approved to sell smoking accessories and cannabis lifestyle products while the temporary suspension of incremental cannabis retail licensing by Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis. The new stores continue to demonstrate High Tide's ability to execute in the rapidly growing cannabis industry. At the moment, the company has 36 of the 37 effective maximum number of development permits established by the AGLC for retail cannabis stores across Alberta and expects to receive the one remaining development permit in the near future. High Tide continues to advance its next 23 Alberta locations that are under various stages of development and construction. In Ontario, two Canna Cabana-branded retail cannabis locations in Hamilton and Sudbury were opened on April 20, 2019 and both are performing strongly in each market, with the next branded location in downtown Toronto expected to open on or before June 1, 2019. In Saskatchewan, the company is progressing through the last steps to complete two pending retail cannabis acquisitions. Lastly, across Alberta, British Columbia and Nova Scotia the Company has 13 Smoker's Corner accessories shops, of which five are corporately owned and eight are franchises. For more information and additional news for High Tide, please visit: https://hightideinc.com/ Other cannabis-related developments from around the markets include: Trulieve Cannabis Corporation (CSE:TRUL) (OTCPK:TCNNF) recently announced that it signed an agreement with Colorado-based Love's Oven, LLC to bring their edible cannabis-infused baked goods, craft concentrates, and other products to Florida's growing patient base. "Love's Oven specifically crafts their products to be the highest-quality available on the market and is dedicated to helping patients achieve relief from everything from chronic pain to insomnia and other ailments. Their products are not only delicious, they're clean, organic, and, most importantly, all natural, which is what Trulieve has focused on since the beginning," said Trulieve CEO Kim Rivers. "Their products are an effective, reliable treatment option for patients seeking relief in innovative ways." Green Growth Brands Inc. (CSE:GGB) (OTCQB:GGBXF) is marketing its CBD personal care products under its Seventh Sense Brand. The company just opened two new CBD shops in Indianapolis Indiana, and Louisville, Kentucky. The new locations are the fourth and fifth Seventh Sense shops to open of the hundreds planned for the year. "We are pleased with the initial performance of our shops and our eCommerce site, ShopSeventhSense.com," said Peter Horvath, CEO of Green Growth Brands. "The investments we are making in securing premium leases and in designing beautiful shop fixtures not only create amazing consumer experiences but are fantastic marketing mechanisms for our brand. With our eventual footprint of hundreds of shops in high foot traffic locations, we will be gaining exposure to millions of potential customers." Westleaf Inc. (TSX-V:WL) (OTCQB:WSLFF) just exercised its previously announced to purchase all of the issued and outstanding shares of 102053592 Saskatchewan Ltd., which operates a cannabis retail store located at 170-3020 Preston Avenue, Saskatoon. The store, which was built out as part of a license agreement with Westleaf, will operate under the Prairie Records retail banner opened for business on April 18, 2019. "While Prairie Records creates a unique and totally different cannabis retail experience, we do want to recognize the day that activists used to bring attention to the push for legalization of cannabis which has gone on for many years," said Adam Coates, CCO at Westleaf. "We are excited to open our doors in two Saskatoon locations providing the community with a unique retail option that celebrates the relationship between cannabis and music." Fire & Flower Holdings Corporation (TSX-V:FAF) (OTCPK:FFLWF) just announced that it entered into an agreement pursuant to which Fire & Flower will acquire certain assets of vendor, Prairie Sky Cannabis Inc. The Vendor currently operates four licensed retail cannabis shops in the province of Saskatchewan in the communities of Battleford, Estevan, Martensville and Moosomin, Saskatchewan under the name Jimmy's Cannabis Shop. "The acquisition of four additional retail cannabis stores in the province of Saskatchewan is the first in Fire & Flower's aggressive acquisition strategy for 2019. In conjunction with our Open Fields wholesale distribution platform in the province, it cements our leadership position in this strategic market. Along with our existing portfolio of organic growth opportunities, the acquisition puts us in a good position to meet our growth goals for the year," said Trevor Fencott, CEO of Fire & Flower. 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Media Contact: editor@financialnewsmedia.com +1(561)325-8757 - Jason Han, the Founder and CEO of Ground X, heading the development of Klaytn, to speak at Consensus 2019 on May 13th - Klaytn mainnet set to launch in 2Q after the successful deployment of both private and public testnets over the course of past 6 months - Klaytn plans to set sail for a new funding round SEOUL, South Korea, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Klaytn, the global public blockchain project of the leading mobile platform in Korea, Kakao, is making its New York debut through CoinDesk's 5th annual blockchain technology summit, Consensus 2019 at New York Hilton Midtown Manhattan Hotel on Monday, May 13th. Klaytn raises $90 million in seed funding to drive the mainstream adoption of blockchain Klaytn successfully closed its exclusive seed round of funding with $90 million in March. The round was participated by numerous well-respected venture capitals including IDG China, whose investment includes Ripple in 2013, along with Peter-Thiel backed Crescendo Equity Partners, and TransLink Capital. Despite the crypto bear market with the fall of bitcoin prices and prevalent lay-offs among crypto companies, still ongoing, Klaytn is already on its first round of funding. Klaytn has also successfully attracted key advisory partners who wield significant influence in their respective regions globally. Widus, a tech-focused advisory with its offices in Hong Kong, Singapore, Seoul, and Silicon Valley, provides financial strategy and legal consultation along with potential partner recruitment for Klaytn with leading firms in both technology and business sectors around the U.S., Hong Kong, Singapore, and Indonesia. Hashed, Korea's most powerful blockchain accelerator and community builder, is another partner that supports Klaytn in mapping out its token economy and community building with its network of global top venture capitals and crypto-focused partners. Ledger Capital, a blockchain advisory whose team members hail from Warburg Pincus and NEA (New Enterprise Associates), supports Klaytn in expanding its ecosystem with global unicorn startups and enterprises that wield significant influence across Asia. Klaytn, an enterprise-grade, service-centric platform that brings user-friendly blockchain experience to millions Klaytn combines the best features of both public blockchains - decentralized data & control, distributed governance - and private blockchains - low latency, high scalability - via an efficient 'hybrid' design. Further, Klaytn is secured by participation from numerous highly-reputable brands around the globe, working together to create a reliable business platform. With a mission to trigger the mass adoption of blockchain experiences for millions of users across the world, Klaytn focuses on empowering businesses and entrepreneurs to offer BApps (Blockchain Applications) with responsiveness, robustness, and usability on par with those based on legacy technologies as to remove all adoption hurdles. After completing the trial run of the private testnet 'Aspen,' which was exclusively used by the partners for the past seven months since last October, Klaytn released the public testnet 'Baobab' on March 29th. In addition to accomplishing over 3,000 TPS throughput and 1-second block latency, Klaytn has also featured new functions and developer tools that enhance security and usability as well as offer the highest performance and flexible scalability. Any service providers or developers interested in using Baobab can visit the official Klaytn homepage at www.klaytn.com . The Klaytn mainnet is set to launch by the end of June this year. Klaytn makes its New York debut at Consensus 2019 Jason Han, the CEO of Ground X, heading the development and operation of the Klaytn platform, will be delivering a speech at Consensus 2019 on Monday, May 13th at 16:00. He plans to introduce and discuss how Klaytn plans to leverage its Kakao-based 50 million-strong user base to drive mass adoption of blockchain. Jason commented, "Klaytn enables businesses and entrepreneurs today to verify Klaytn as a stable platform with which they can develop blockchain services, and most importantly capture value using blockchain technology." He will also speak on Klaytn's business and technology in depth at a separate session for journalists and interested officials on the 14th. Klaytn also plans to hold a booth exhibition from May 13th to 15th at NY Hilton Midtown Manhattan Hotel where participants can visit to experience a variety of interactive activities including onsite airdrop event. [About Klaytn] Klaytn is a public blockchain platform of the leading South Korean mobile platform, Kakao. Dedicated to validating the value and utility of blockchain technology by providing a blockchain service for mass adoption, Klaytn provides an intuitive development environment and friendly user experience. Klaytn seeks to continue advancing the platform to offer blockchain services for millions of users. https://klaytn.com https://medium.com/klaytn https://twitter.com/klaytn_official Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/883740/Klaytn.jpg Rakuten Showcases Strategic Partnership With Netcracker in Keynote and Workshop Focused on Digital Business Transformation Netcracker Technology announced today its further collaboration with Rakuten Mobile, Inc. by showcasing their expanding partnership with a keynote presentation and workshop at TM Forum's Digital Transformation World 2019 set from May 14-16 in Nice, France. The collaboration will focus on Rakuten Mobile's unique approach to digital business transformation as well as best practices to ensure success. Keynote Netcracker Rakuten: Blueprint for Digital Transformation Success When: 9:00 AM on Tuesday, May 14 Andrew Feinberg, President and CEO of Netcracker, and Tareq Amin, CTO of Rakuten Mobile, will keynote the event with an examination of Rakuten Mobile's business transformation. The presentation will highlight how Rakuten is evolving beyond its roots as an e-commerce, fintech and digital content provider into a disruptive mobile network operator, as well as the unique approaches adopted through this collaboration. "Rakuten is a pioneer of e-commerce in Japan and now we are bringing that same commitment to disruptive innovation to our launch as a mobile operator," said Tareq Amin. "The technology and expertise of our world-class partners such as Netcracker play an integral role in our new network and we are excited to showcase our unique partnership with them." Digital Leadership Summit* Rakuten: Bringing Hyper-Scale Innovation and Disruption to the Communications Industry When: 2:00 PM on Tuesday, May 14 In conjunction with TM Forum, Netcracker and Rakuten Mobile will spotlight how Rakuten is leveraging Netcracker's Digital BSS to expand its brand loyalty program and transform customer experience. It will demonstrate Netcracker's strategic role in enabling and supporting the initiative as well as how forward-looking, innovative, next-generation service providers will forever disrupt the market. You can register for the summit here. *The Digital Leadership Summit is open to operators only. About Netcracker Technology Netcracker Technology, a wholly owned subsidiary of NEC Corporation, is a forward-looking software company, offering mission-critical solutions to service providers around the globe. Our comprehensive portfolio of software solutions and professional services enables large-scale digital transformations, unlocking the opportunities of the cloud, virtualization and the changing mobile ecosystem. With an unbroken service delivery track record of more than 20 years, our unique combination of technology, people and expertise helps companies transform their networks and enable better experiences for their customers. For more information, visit www.netcracker.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190509005178/en/ Contacts: Erin O'Reilly Netcracker Technology + 1-781-366-7049 Erin.Oreilly@Netcracker.com Juliet Shavit SmartMark Communications for Netcracker Technology +1-215-504-4272 jshavit@smartmarkusa.com Janus Henderson Investors (NYSE: JHG, ASX: JHG) ("Janus Henderson") today announced the appointment of Suzanne Cain as Global Head of Distribution. Suzanne will join Janus Henderson effective 20 May 2019. She will be responsible for the firm's global sales and product strategy for both institutional and retail channels, and will oversee global marketing and lead client service across the firm's business worldwide. Suzanne will be a member of the Executive Committee at Janus Henderson and will be based in Denver. Suzanne brings over 30 years' extensive global industry experience. She was most recently at BlackRock where she served as U.S. and Global Head of Institutional Clients, iShares, the largest provider of exchange-traded funds (ETFs) worldwide. At BlackRock, Suzanne led the firm's global client teams across sales, product consulting, portfolio construction and global markets coverage. Prior to joining BlackRock, Suzanne was Head of the Institutional Client Group and Head of Structured Credit and Structured Finance Sales at Deutsche Bank for EMEA from 2010 to 2017. From 2004, Suzanne spent six years based in London with Morgan Stanley where her last position there was Managing Director and Head of Credit Sales, Europe and Middle East. Suzanne also had an earlier role at Deutsche Bank, where she was Managing Director and Head of Relative Value Group from 1996 to 2002. Janus Henderson has more than 600 professionals within the firm's distribution team globally, more than 350 investment professionals across a broad spectrum of active investment capabilities and a strong global client service team. Dick Weil, Chief Executive Officer of Janus Henderson Investors, said: "Suzanne's appointment follows an extensive review of high-calibre industry professionals. She brings deep global leadership experience, an ability to operate strategically and an excellent track record of success in product innovation, building product capabilities and leading global sales initiatives. "As our primary focus remains on delivering exceptional client service and long-term successful investment outcomes, I am confident in Suzanne's ability as a transformative leader to continue to drive forward our new growth priorities and global distribution efforts." About Janus Henderson Investors Janus Henderson Group (JHG) is a leading global active asset manager dedicated to helping investors achieve long-term financial goals through a broad range of investment solutions, including equities, fixed income, quantitative equities, multi-asset and alternative asset class strategies. Janus Henderson has approximately US$357 billion in assets under management (at 31 March 2019), more than 2,000 employees, and offices in 28 cities worldwide. Headquartered in London, the company is listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX). View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190509005427/en/ Contacts: Media enquiries: Sally Todd Global Head of Communications +44 20 7818 2244 Sally.todd@janushenderson.com Toronto, Canada--(Newsfile Corp. - May 9, 2019) - Sweet Natural Trading Co. Limited (TSXV: NTRL) ("Sweet Natural Trading", or the "Company) disclosed today that the filing of its annual financial statements for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, the related management's analysis and the related officer certifications of the annual filings (collectively, the "2018 Annual Financial Filings") were not completed by the deadline of April 30, 2019 (the "Filing Deadline"). The Ontario Securities Commission has issued a cease trade order (the "Cease Trade Order") against the Corporation pursuant to National Policy 11-207 - Failure-to-File Cease Trade Orders and Revocations in Multiple Jurisdictions and its securities have been halted from trading on the TSX Venture Exchange. Sweet Natural Trading is actively working with its auditors to finalize the 2018 Annual Financial Filings, which the Company expects to be completed shortly. The delay has been due to focused discussions with both secured and unsecured convertible debenture holders to restructure the terms of their agreements and limited resources. Once the 2018 Annual Financial Filings are finalized, the Corporation will seek to have the Cease Trade Order revoked. The Corporation will be forthcoming with an update on the 2018 Annual Financial Statements as well as a general corporate update once the required filings have been made. About Sweet Natural Trading Co. Limited Sweet Natural Trading Co. Limited is a leading natural sweetener company that promotes healthier eating by selling food products that reduce refined, added sugar consumption. With obesity and diabetes reaching unprecedented levels, the Company is focused on making a positive impact in reducing these lifestyle diseases. Sweet Natural Trading Co. products are sold in over 7,000 stores including major retail customers such as Loblaws, Walmart, Whole Foods, Costco, Publix, Sprouts and distributors including UNFI and KeHE. For more information about Sweet Natural Trading Co. Limited please contact: David Darakjian CFO of Sweet Natural Trading Co. Limited 416.288.1019 ddarakjian@sweetnaturaltrading.com To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/44688 Standard Life Investments Property Income Trust - Notice of AGM Standard Life Investments Property Income Trust Limited (an authorised closed-ended investment company incorporated in Guernsey with registration number 41352) (the "Company") 9 May 2019 NOTICE OF ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING Notice is hereby given that the Fifteenth Annual General Meeting of the Company will be held at Bow Bells House, 1 Bread Street, London, EC4M 9HH on Thursday, 13 June 2019, at 10.30 a.m. A copy of the Notice of Annual General Meeting and the Annual Report and Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2018 is available on the Company's website: http://www.slipit.co.uk and will shortly be posted to shareholders. In accordance with Listing Rule 9.6.3, the documents will shortly be available for inspection on the National Storage Mechanism which is located at: www.morningstar.co.uk/uk/NSM. Enquiries: Northern Trust International Fund Administration Services (Guernsey) Limited The Company Secretary Trafalgar Court Les Banques St Peter Port Guernsey GY1 3QL Tel: 01481 745001 Fax: 01481 745051 May 9, 2018 Amsterdam, the Netherlands - Royal Philips (NYSE: PHG, AEX: PHIA) announced that today's Annual General Meeting of Shareholders (AGM) re-appointed Frans van Houten as President/CEO and member of the Board of Management, and Abhijit Bhattacharya as member of the Board of Management fulfilling the role of CFO. The other proposals voted on at the AGM, including the re-appointment of David Pyott and the appointment Elizabeth Doherty as members of the Supervisory Board, and the distribution of a dividend of EUR 0.85 per share over 2018, were also adopted. More information about the optional dividend can be found via this link . Additional information on the composition of the Board of Management, the Executive Committee and the Supervisory Board can be found here . Philips' 2018 results are included in Philips' 2018 Annual Report that was published on February 26, 2019. For more information about Philips' 2019 AGM, please click on this link . For further information, please contact: Ben Zwirs Philips Group Press Office Tel.: +31 6 15213446 E-mail: ben.zwirs@philips.com Ksenija Gonciarenko Philips Investor Relations Tel.: +31 20 59 77055 E-mail: ksenija.gonciarenko@philips.com About Royal Philips Royal Philips. Attachments BERKELEY, CA / ACCESSWIRE / May 10, 2019 / Berkeley SkyDeck, UC Berkeley's premier accelerator, will host its Spring 2019 Demo Day on May 14, featuring 20 innovative startups from around the world in the focus areas of AI, AR/VR, health tech, consumer software, robotics, and more. Berkeley SkyDeck's current cohort teams are from all over the U.S. as well as 10 countries and four continents. Each company received $100,000 from the Berkeley SkyDeck Fund as well as more than $500,000 in free and discounted services, and intensive mentorship from advisors as they prepare to pitch more than 700 investors on Demo Day. 'We are thrilled to present our new batch of companies who are building technology which positively impacts people around the world,' said Caroline Winnett, Executive Director, Berkeley SkyDeck. 'I'm so proud of our startup companies. They have worked extremely hard to get where they are today and are excited to officially pitch their ideas before hundreds of top investors. This is an exceptional opportunity to get a peek at the future of technology.' Berkeley SkyDeck provides resources unavailable at any other accelerators, such as connections with top advisors from the Bay Area business communities and access to UC Berkeley's research facilities, computing resources, lab space, and more. With SkyDeck's help, startups are able to effectively leverage the network of 500,000 Berkeley alumni throughout Silicon Valley to reach customers, partners, and more. Since Berkeley SkyDeck was founded in 2012, more than 300 companies have participated in the accelerator program. Noteworthy SkyDeck startups include Lime, a scooter and bike rental company recently valued at $1 billion; Kiwi Campus, building robots for last-mile delivery; and Chirp Microsystems, which was recently acquired by TDK. For more information visit Berkeley SkyDeck at http://skydeck.berkeley.edu/. Accredited investors and media interested in attending can email SkyDeck@berkeley.edu to request an invitation. The Spring 2019 Berkeley SkyDeck Demo Day will include the following startups: Artivive Artivive is creating an entirely new medium for artists around the world through augmented reality. Their AR platform and app is currently used by museums on three continents. Concha Labs Motivated by the founder's personal experience, Concha Labs is creating a direct-to-consumer service that will bring hearing aids to tens of millions of Americans who suffer from symptoms of hearing loss every day without seeking professional help. DeepScribe DeepScribe is developing the holy grail for physicians: an AI-powered scribing service that passively records and understands a patient's visit, generates a clinical note, and then seamlessly injects it into the EHR system in real time at the conclusion of the patient's visit. DevSpace Kubernetes has become the new standard for ensuring scalability, reliability, and portability of applications. DevSpace turns any Kubernetes cluster into a powerful developer platform which enables dev teams to build cloud-native software more quickly. Tech teams leverage DevSpace Cloud to create, manage and share secure development and testing environments and use the open-source tool DevSpace CLI to accelerate building, deploying and debugging applications. Dough Dough is a fintech startup offering the first digital wallet targeting Gen Z. By giving parents the tools they need to manage their children's spending, Dough will be the payments platform of choice for an entire generation of users. DocuVision DocuVision is building a personal data management platform for organizations. Whether it's customer support emails, scanned invoices, or chat transcripts, businesses of all sizes can use DocuVision's AI-powered solution to automatically detect and take action on personal data. From redacting names, social security card numbers, and other unstructured sensitive data, to redesigning your workflows to be privacy first, DocuVision is enabling a world where all companies are 'private by design.' Empowerly Empowerly has built a tech-enabled service for personalized college and career counseling, making it available to the masses via a customizable subscription plan. Using the vast array of data accumulated from over 10,000 users and growing, Empowerly is able to match students of any background with the right counseling at any stage in their lives. Grovf Big data applications are a critical part of any modern enterprise, with many enterprise data centers relying on hundreds of thousands of servers constantly running operations across terabytes of data. Grovf has designed FPGA-based hardware accelerators that dramatically improve the speed of applications which rely on compute-heavy operations. Monit Monit is a baby tech company focused on facilitating the healthy growth of babies. Monit has built a sensor that detects pee and poo separately and provides instant notifications to parents so they can understand optimal timing for changing a diaper. The company launched in Korea four months ago and has already grossed more than $1 million in revenue. Obviously AI Obviously.AI enables rapidly-growing businesses without a dedicated data science team to predict customer behavior from their existing structured data, simply by asking questions in plain English: 'Which of my users are likely to churn?', "Who is likely to buy again?", "What do our best customers have in common?". All of this, in a matter of minutes - no programming or machine learning experience required. Ottometric The auto industry today is delivering Level 1 to Level 3 autonomous capabilities that the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has called out as sub-par. Ottometric is focused on moving validation to the 21st century - scalable SaaS tools that meet the challenge of safer driver assistance features today and be ready for full autonomy tomorrow. Pow Genetic Solutions Pow is bringing the fab/foundry model to the growing synthetic biology market. Pow is a UC Berkeley spin-out, combining the operational expertise from these government labs with commercial-facing industry experience. Pow's unique competitive advantage comes from its patented approach for 'continuous operation,' allowing unprecedented efficiencies in yield / cost. Route Reports Although computer vision algorithms have advanced tremendously, the vast majority of users around the world are unable to leverage them; users are often tied to legacy CCTV / IP surveillance cameras or concerned about privacy. Route Reports has built purely edge-based IoT solutions that will allow them to service this huge market, starting with the billion-dollar public transit vertical. Spext Audio content is exploding in podcasts/audio books, and even enterprise communications are increasingly relying on the creation of auditory content. Spext lets anyone create engaging hearing content in minutes. It looks like a Google Doc and unlike traditional music software - users can edit the audio at any location using the auto-generated transcript; simply type in words, and they are synthesized in the speaker's voice. Squishy Robotics A spin-off of UC Berkeley research with NASA, Squishy Robotics makes robots that can be safely airdropped from drones or helicopters. Squishy Robotics' technology saves lives, reduces risks, and improves the effectiveness of emergency response teams. SuperAnnotate Based on the founder's Ph.D. thesis work, SuperAnnotate has the world's fastest pixel-perfect image annotation tool. This allows the creation of labeled image training sets far superior to existing bounding-box based approaches, critical for improving machine learning models. Telos.AI People naturally communicate, think, and explain visually, yet doing it effortlessly and digitally is still a big pain. Telos is a visual communication tool that is as easy to use as a whiteboard and as powerful as a company search engine. Visual documents made in Telos are living documents that become the focal point for visual collaboration throughout the entire project lifecycle. Wavelength Wavelength is creating a platform to make driving safer and capitalize on inefficiencies in the auto insurance industry. Their first product, Wavelength Driving Score, is an objective measurement of drivers' ability to drive safely. Unlike conventional auto insurance companies' sole reliance on telematics and demographic data, the Wavelength's driver score system incorporates vision-based sensors and edge AI processing technology to provide unique driving insight for accurate risk assessment. Workep The future of work increasingly requires the collaboration of multiple teams across multiple enterprises, but existing project management tools like Asana and Microsoft Project are no longer able to keep up. Workep has deployed a powerful project management tool designed for the new collaborative world, integrating novel features like multi-project / multi-user time tracking, and much more. ABOUT BERKELEY SKYDECK As UC Berkeley's largest official startup accelerator, Berkeley SkyDeck is a joint program of the UC Berkeley Haas School of Business, the College of Engineering, and the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Research. With funding backed by private investors including top Silicon Valley VCs like Sequoia and Mayfield, SkyDeck combines the hands-on mentorship of traditional accelerators with the vast resources of its research university. This holistic partnership is coupled with SkyDeck's unique accelerator program to create a powerful environment for startups from around the world. Participating startups have access to more than 190 advisors, 30 industry partners, and access to more than 500,000 alumni who connect SkyTeams to the expertise and capital they need to launch and grow their world-changing innovations. Recent cohort graduates have seen exceptional success in leveraging these resources to successfully raise follow-on investment from institutional investors. For more information, see http://skydeck.berkeley.edu/. Media Contact: Erica Zeidenberg erica@hottomato.net 925-631-0553 office 925-518-8159 mobile SOURCE: UC Berkeley SkyDeck View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/545019/CORRECTION-20-Startups-Showcase-Next-Big-Ideas-at-Berkeley-SkyDecks-Spring-2019-Demo-Day MANHASSET, NY / ACCESSWIRE / May 9, 2019 / One person's unwanted shoes can help provide meaningful opportunities that many in developing nations need. Dr. William Levine has launched a shoe drive to collect (10,000) pairs of new or gently-worn shoes for Soles4Souls, a non-profit social enterprise that creates sustainable jobs and provides relief through the distribution of shoes and clothing around the world. Between 5/1/2019 and 7/1/2019, bring your new or gently-worn shoes of any kind to 1180 Northern Blvd in Manhasset. For more information, please contact Lisa Baharestani at Northwell Health (516) 410-6650, or Lbaharesta@northwell.edu. The donated shoes will be distributed to Soles4Souls' micro-enterprise programs that create jobs in Haiti, Honduras and other developing nations. The micro-enterprise model provides individuals the ability to start small businesses by providing a steady supply of high-quality, low-cost product. They also give a second life to unwanted shoes, keeping them out of landfills and protecting the environment. The World Bank estimates that approximately 767 million people live on less than $1.90 per day. Many people living in extreme poverty simply do not have access to stable employment. The income generated by selling just one pair of shoes in Haiti can provide up to five meals for a family in need, whereas 30 pairs sold by an entrepreneur in Honduras can provide up to a year of schooling for a child. Revenue generated by Soles4Souls' micro-enterprise operations funds the organization's free distribution programs. These distributions provide relief in many developing nations around the globe in times of disaster, and helps bridge the economic gap in the United States and Canada. To host a shoe drive or find out more information, go to GiveShoes.org/Get-Involved. About Soles4Souls Soles4Souls disrupts the cycle of poverty by creating sustainable jobs and providing relief through the distribution of shoes and clothing around the world. Headquartered in Nashville, Tennessee, the organization repurposes product to supply its micro-enterprise, disaster relief and direct assistance programs. Since 2006, it has distributed more than 35 million pairs of shoes in 127 countries. A nonprofit social enterprise, Soles4Souls earns more than half of its income and commits 100% of donations to programs. Visit soles4souls.org for more information. If you want to get to know more about Dr. Levine's practice visit, manhassetpodiatry.com or, if you want to get to know more about William Levine outside of work, visit his personal website at drwilliamlevinepodiatrist.com. Contact: william@manhassetpodiatry. com SOURCE: Dr. William Levine View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/544807/Manhasset-Podiatrys-Dr-William-Levine-Collecting-Gently-Worn-Shoes-to-Help-Soles4Souls-Fight-Global-Poverty Houston, Texas--(Newsfile Corp. - May 9, 2019) - MarijuanaStox announces publication of an article that discusses Lifestyle Delivery Systems Inc. (CSE: LDS) (OTC: LDSYF). The company produces cannabis-infused CannaStrips (similar to breath strips) that are not only a safer, healthier option to smoking, but also a new way to accurately meter the dosage and assure the purity of the product. The CBD Boom is Just Getting Started The CBD boom has been one of the most explosive stories of 2019. More U.S. states have approved its use. Corporate America is just beginning to invest in it. Congress is pushing forward with new legislation. President Trump signed the Farm Bill into law. Cannabis M&A is picking up momentum. We've even seen sales estimates soar. Arcview Research and BDS Analytics forecast 38% global growth in 2019 to $16.9 billion, for example. In addition, according to the Brightfield Group, worldwide CBD sales are expected to soar from $591 million in 2018 to as high as $22 billion by 2022 - a compound growth rate of 147%. Not only has it transformed multi-billion-dollar industries including alcohol, health and wellness, cigarettes, and the retail industry, it's impacting food, too. In fact, everything from gummy bears and cookies to candy and brownies are being infused with CBD. In addition, later this month the U.S. FDA could provide a substantial boost to cannabis stocks in weeks. In fact, on May 31, 2019, the government agency will hold its first public hearing on legalizing CBD in food and drinks, to figure out how to regulate such products. Lifestyle Delivery Systems in Line to Benefit In addition, Lifestyle Delivery Systems just reported that the City of Adelanto reduced the tax on Transportation, Distribution, Manufacturing, and Cannabis Testing Lab Services from 5% down to 1% voted 4 to 1 in favor of the reduction. The City council voted 4 to1 to reduce the cultivation tax from $5 per month per square foot to $0.42 cents per month, per square foot. The dispensaries tax was likewise reduced from 5% down to 3%. This decision comes in line with California voting to reduce the cannabis cultivation tax statewide. The reduction in city taxes will be a positive incentive for cannabis businesses to operate in Adelanto. "We understand that this was a difficult decision for the city, but without the tax reduction the cannabis industry in Adelanto would have been diminished to a couple of small manufacturers. The green zone would be abandoned and property values would have evaporated to a fraction of today's values," says LDS CEO, Brad Eckenweiler. "The Adelanto city council took the necessary steps to secure a strong and sustainable Cannabis business community here in Adelanto. The State of California is also lowering taxes to reduce the illegal, unregulated, contaminated, and pesticide-ridden grey/black market products, which have had price advantages partially due to the higher taxes." The LDS subsidiaries applaud the actions of the city council and look forward to a long a mutually beneficial future together." For more information, visit the company's website at https://www.lifestyledeliverysystems.com About MarijuanaStox MarijuanaStox.com is a leading web destination for all cannabis related companies. Investors can also find current marijuana-related quality financial, medical, legal and social news. MarijuanaStox.com is a media agency in North America dedicated to the cannabis industry, helping companies that operate in the space to attract quality investors, working capital and real publicity. Since 2005, we have had public companies in the US and Canada have rely on us to grow and succeed. Legal Disclaimer Except for the historical information presented herein, matters discussed in this article contain forward-looking statements that are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such statements. Winning Media which has a partnership with www.MarijuanaStox.com is not registered with any financial or securities regulatory authority and does not provide nor claims to provide investment advice or recommendations to readers of this release. For making specific investment decisions, readers should seek their own advice. Winning Media, which has a partnership with www.MarijuanaStox.com, is only compensated for its services in the form of cash-based compensation. Pursuant to an agreement between Winning Media (partners of MarijuanaStox.com) and Lifestyle Delivery Systems Inc., Winning Media has been paid four thousand dollars for advertising and marketing services for Lifestyle Delivery Systems Inc. We own ZERO shares of Lifestyle Delivery Systems Inc. Please click here for full disclaimer. Contact Information: 2818047972 ty@marijuanastox.com SOURCE: MarijuanaStox.com To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/44689 LONDON, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Chubb today announced the appointment of Karine Paul and Brigitte Vorrath as Global Client Executives (GCE) as the insurer continues to invest in its Major Accounts division in Continental Europe. In their new roles, Brigitte Vorrath will have responsibilities for Germany, Austria, Poland, Czech Republic, Hungary and Russia, while Karine Paul will manage France and the Nordics, in addition to extra-regional responsibilities in the UAE and India. Switzerland will be divided between them with Brigitte managing the northern German-speaking area, while Karine looks after its southern French-speaking businesses. Both will manage and develop relationships for existing and newly acquired Major Accounts clients and each will be responsible for driving strong account retention and business growth opportunities. Effective immediately, Brigitte and Karine will report to Adrian Matthews, COO, Head of P&C Continental Europe and work in close collaboration with Suresh Krishnan, Head of Major Accounts Division Europe and Tina Lakickas, Head of Major Accounts Division COG on the continuing development and implementation of the GCE Practice. Karine will continue to be based in Paris and Brigitte will remain in Frankfurt. Karine, who was most recently Major Accounts Director, France, has almost 25 years of experience working with multinational insurance companies. She first joined ACE in 1998 before returning to the business in 2012 after a stint at Zurich Global Corporate. Brigitte has more than 18 years of experience in the international industrial insurance business. An attorney, she joined Chubb in 2009 as Major Accounts Manager. Previously she was senior key account manager for foreign projects at the in-house broker of Frankfurt Airport Services Worldwide (Fraport AG.) Adrian Matthews, COO, Head of P&C Continental Europe, said: "The appointment of Brigitte and Karine to these newly created roles is a reflection of our commitment to further enhancing Chubb's offering to its Major Accounts clients in Continental Europe. Both are highly regarded across the industry and they will work closely with our customers and broker partners to find and create new solutions for their unique and individual needs." About Chubb Chubb is the world's largest publicly traded property and casualty insurance company. With operations in 54 countries and territories, Chubb provides commercial and personal property and casualty insurance, personal accident and supplemental health insurance, reinsurance and life insurance to a diverse group of clients. As an underwriting company, we assess, assume and manage risk with insight and discipline. We service and pay our claims fairly and promptly. The company is also defined by its extensive product and service offerings, broad distribution capabilities, exceptional financial strength and local operations globally. Parent company Chubb Limited is listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: CB) and is a component of the S&P 500 index. Chubb maintains executive offices in Zurich, New York, London, Paris and other locations, and employs approximately 30,000 people worldwide. Additional information can be found at: chubb.com/uk Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/324916/Chubb_Logo.jpg John Wood Group PLC ("Company") LEI: 549300PLYY6I10B6S323 Annual General Meeting - Voting Resultsy Issued share capital at meeting date: 681,539,369 Number of votes per share: 1 vote per share At the Annual General Meeting of John Wood Group PLC held on 9 May 2019, all resolutions put to shareholders were passed on a poll with the required majorities. The full text of each resolution is contained in the Notice of Annual General Meeting, which is available on the Company's website www.woodplc.com The final vote received in respect of each resolution was as follows: Votes For (Including Discretionary) % Votes Against % Votes Total % of Issued Share Capital Voted Votes Withheld* 1 Report & accounts 562,844,627 99.99% 83,938 0.01% 562,928,565 82.60% 707,823 2 Declaration of final dividend 543,974,639 96.51% 19,653,763 3.49% 563,628,402 82.70% 7,987 3 Remuneration report 456,721,589 81.78% 101,740,458 18.22% 558,462,047 81.94% 5,204,342 4 Re-elect Ian Marchant 517,393,958 92.08% 44,524,349 7.92% 561,918,307 82.45% 1,718,081 5 Re-elect Thomas Botts 562,231,047 99.76% 1,340,359 0.24% 563,571,406 82.69% 64,983 6 Re-elect Jan Brown 495,604,244 87.94% 67,969,447 12.06% 563,573,691 82.69% 62,697 7 Re-elect Jacqui Ferguson 559,874,110 99.34% 3,699,077 0.66% 563,573,187 82.69% 63,202 8 Re-elect Roy Franklin 558,471,397 99.10% 5,095,571 0.90% 563,566,968 82.69% 69,421 9 Re-elect Mary Shafer-Malicki 521,365,636 92.51% 42,210,515 7.49% 563,576,151 82.69% 60,238 10 Re-elect Jeremy Wilson 503,434,823 89.33% 60,134,598 10.67% 563,569,421 82.69% 66,966 11 Re-elect Robin Watson 563,347,229 99.96% 227,304 0.04% 563,574,533 82.69% 61,856 12 Re-elect David Kemp 562,518,950 99.81% 1,055,994 0.19% 563,574,944 82.69% 61,445 13 Re-appointment of KPMG LLC as auditors 563,532,979 99.99% 63,050 0.01% 563,596,029 82.69% 40,360 14 Authorisation of auditors' remuneration 563,558,941 99.99% 54,664 0.01% 563,613,605 82.70% 22,784 15 Authority to allot shares 469,069,892 83.23% 94,526,844 16.77% 563,596,736 82.69% 39,653 16 Disapplication of pre-emption rights 557,039,319 98.85% 6,487,868 1.15% 563,527,187 82.68% 109,202 17 Additional authority to disapply pre-emption rights 509,345,598 90.39% 54,182,334 9.61% 563,527,932 82.68% 108,456 18 Authority to purchase own shares 561,294,509 99.60% 2,263,606 0.40% 563,558,115 82.69% 78,273 19 Notice of general meetings 503,095,628 89.62% 58,285,394 10.38% 561,381,022 82.37% 2,255,367 * A vote withheld is not a vote in law and is not counted in the calculation of the proportion of votes 'For' or 'Against' a resolution. Resolutions 16 to 19 were considered and passed as Special Resolutions. On 2 May 2019, ahead of the AGM, the company announced that the participation levels in the Long-Term Plan (LTIP) for the performance period beginning 2019, as disclosed in the Remuneration Report, of 250% of annual base salary for our Chief Executive, Robin Watson, and of 200% for our CFO, David Kemp, would be cancelled as mutually agreed by the Board, Robin and David. Although the Board remains concerned about longer term retention for senior management, including executive directors, and the external competitive environment for talent, it was agreed that the participation levels would return to the previous levels of 200% and 175% respectively. The Remuneration Committee note the concerns raised and will further engage with shareholders in the coming months to ensure shareholder views are fully considered and the interests of shareholders are aligned to the Company's reward principles. The Remuneration Committee will reflect on feedback received and use it to inform the Company's Remuneration Policy which will be subject to approval at the Company's 2020 annual general meeting. These votes are available on the Company's website at: www.woodplc.com In accordance with LR 9.6.2, those resolutions passed at today's AGM which are required to be made available for inspection will shortly be available to view at www.morningstar.co.uk/uk/NSM. Notification authorised by: Martin J McIntyre Company Secretary TROY, MI / ACCESSWIRE / May 9, 2019 / Edcor, a national leader in education benefits administration, is helping to tackle the issue of student debt by offering companies a meaningful advantage for their employees in the form of student loan assistance with "Freedom" Student Loan Assistance Programs. Across the United States, there are 44.2 million people with outstanding student loans, adding up to a staggering 1.52 trillion dollars. The burden of this debt often finds its way into the workplace, where employees may need to work a second job, take more sick days, or in some cases apply for medical leave due to physical or mental health concerns. When asked, 40% of employees said education-related debt prevents further education or training, 63% said it hinders their ability to make major purchases such as homes or automobiles, and 73% said it impedes or eliminates their ability to save for retirement. "Education-related debt is a huge issue in this country," said Adrienne Way, Owner and CEO of Edcor. "And it impacts so many aspects of people's lives. At Edcor, we recognized that this was a significant factor in employee morale, and knew that offering employers a solution to help with loan re-payment would be hugely beneficial." But this isn't the only benefit, says Adrienne, "The results actually go beyond increasing employee retention and productivity. Offering these types of programs has shown to attract top candidates as well. It's really a win-win for everybody - it's good for staff and it's good for business." Edcor's Freedom programs offers student loan re-payment assistance to attract and retain the talent businesses need to fill the skills gap in the workforce. Working closely with businesses and their employees, Edcor meets the need through re-payment programs that are cost-efficient and rated among the best in the country. Loan re-payment assistance is a natural complement to traditional tuition reimbursement, and creates a dynamic business culture that values higher education. This creates an incentive that attracts, inspires, and retains the best employees. For more information, visit edcor.com. Edcor, a woman-owned business, is the benchmark in education benefits administration. For over 38 years our customized service and solutions have allowed Clients to use education benefits programs including tuition assistance and student loan assistance for employee recruiting, retention and development. Additional information can be obtained at www.edcor.com. Contacts: Erika Gertz 4960 Walker Rd., Unit 2 VP, Client Services Work: 5192581858 egertz@experiencedmg.com www.experienceDMG.com SOURCE: Edcor View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/544681/Edcor-Launches-Freedom-Programs-To-Help-Relieve-Employee-Student-Loan-Debt Fans of the Chinese alcoholic beverage enthusiastically welcome the delegation of the Cultural Moutai - Colorful Guizhou B&R Journey - Walking into East African Countries Brand Promotion Campaign DAR ES SALAAM, Tanzania, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Following a promotional campaign held in South America in April, Chinese liquor brand Moutai rolled out another large-scale marketing campaign in Tanzania on May 7 at 4:00 pm local time. A delegation, led by Kweichow Moutai Group deputy party secretary Wang Yan and deputy general manager Yang Jianjun, arrived in Dar es Salaam, the largest city of Tanzania, marking the formal beginning of the Cultural Moutai - Colorful Guizhou Belt and Road (B&R) Journey - Walking into East African Countries Brand Promotion Campaign. This is another one of Moutai's promotional campaigns targeting the African continent, less than two years following a similar effort in South Africa in November 2017. As one of China's emblematic national brands, Moutai has sped up its international expansion, the success of which, exemplified by the growth in the number of fans of the Chinese alcoholic beverage worldwide, is a strong testament to the liquor maker's significantly enhanced global presence. Upon arriving at the Dar es Salaam Julius Nyerere International Airport on a bright sunny day, the delegation was surrounded by an enthusiastic crowd of East African Moutai fans, who were dressed in T-shirts featuring the Moutai logo superimposed on an outline of the Africa continent and holding up banners and flags emblazoned with the words "Welcome to the Moutai Delegation". The fans expressed their welcome and excitement when they shouted out wo ai moutai ("We love Moutai"), in their best efforts at pronouncing the Chinese words, and sang songs featuring East African rhythms, collectively showing the emotional attachment they had made with the brand. Messrs. Wang and Yang warmly shook hands with the enthusiastic fans, in addition to joining them in singing the songs and posing for a group photo. The thrilled fans attracted the attention of the throngs of passengers just disembarking or waiting for flights at the airport. Africa is an integral part of Moutai's international expansion. The Chinese liquor maker plans to focus on East African countries, notably Tanzania, Kenya and Ethiopia, during this campaign, executing on its plan to hold a large-scale brand promotion conference in Dar es Salaam. The delegation will host a series of events, including a large cultural gathering, several small tasting sessions as well as visits to Chinese embassies in several countries, during the subsequent two weeks, in a move to raise the maker's visibility across East Africa. At the same time, the delegation will also engage in a comprehensive market research initiative and hold the resident reseller symposium, in order to gain an in-depth understanding of the trends in the East African market, and to use the knowledge gained as the basis for establishing the firm's strategy and roadmap for global expansion. Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/883877/Moutai_in_Tanzania.jpg LONDON, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Roots Analysis has announced the addition of "Cell Encapsulation: Focus on Therapeutics and Technologies, 2019-2030" report to its list of offerings. Nupur Singh, the principal analyst, stated, "Extensive research on cell encapsulation strategies has enabled the development of a variety of technologies capable of immobilizing / enclosing therapeutic entities within biocompatible matrices / carriers. Such products offer a myriad of advantages, and have demonstrated the capability to address existing challenges related to cell therapies and certain other types of interventions as well. Currently, more than 25 encapsulated therapy products are being evaluated across different stages of development for the treatment of various chronic disorders. Of these, some products are already in mid to late-stage (phase II and above) of development and are likely to enter the market in the next 5-10 years." The report presents opinions on several key aspects of the market. Among other elements, it includes: A detailed assessment of the current market landscape of encapsulated cell therapies and affiliated technologies, highlighting various target disease indications, phase of development of various encapsulated therapy candidates, encapsulation method, type of cells / API, and route of administration, along with information on various stakeholder companies that are developing novel encapsulation methods / techniques for various applications. It is worth noting that around 45% of the pipeline candidates are being developed for the treatment of metabolic disorders; of these, more than 70% are being investigated for the treatment of type 1 diabetes. Examples include ( in alphabetical order , no specific selection criteria ) Air Bio-artificial Pancreas (Beta-O2 Technologies), hPSC (Kadimastem), Neo-Islets (SymbioCellTech), PEC-Encap (ViaCyte), Sig-002 (Sigilon Therapeutics / Eli Lilly), SR-01 (Seraxis), and TARGETBCD (Evotec / Sanofi). , ) Air Bio-artificial Pancreas (Beta-O2 Technologies), hPSC (Kadimastem), Neo-Islets (SymbioCellTech), PEC-Encap (ViaCyte), Sig-002 (Sigilon Therapeutics / Eli Lilly), SR-01 (Seraxis), and TARGETBCD (Evotec / Sanofi). An in-depth analysis of the patents that have been published related to cell encapsulation technologies, since 2013. The analysis also highlights the key trends associated with these patents, across patent type, regional applicability, CPC classification, emerging focus areas, leading industry players ( in terms of number of patents filed / granted ), and current intellectual property-related benchmarks and valuation. During our research, we came across more than 3,000 patents that have been filed / granted since 2013. In fact, since 2014, more than 500 patents have been filed / granted each year across the globe; close to 580 patents were filed / granted in 2018 alone. It is worth noting that the R&D activity was observed to be concentrated in the US, which is evident from over 1,600 patents that were filed / granted in this region during the given time period. Other key regions with significant intellectual capital related to encapsulated cell therapies include ( in decreasing order of number of patents filed / granted ) Australia , Europe , Canada , Japan , China , and Israel . ), and current intellectual property-related benchmarks and valuation. During our research, we came across more than 3,000 patents that have been filed / granted since 2013. In fact, since 2014, more than 500 patents have been filed / granted each year across the globe; close to 580 patents were filed / granted in 2018 alone. It is worth noting that the R&D activity was observed to be concentrated in the US, which is evident from over 1,600 patents that were filed / granted in this region during the given time period. Other key regions with significant intellectual capital related to encapsulated cell therapies include ( / ) , , , , , and . A comprehensive clinical trial analysis of completed, ongoing and planned studies of various encapsulated cell therapies. The analysis highlights the key trends associated with these clinical studies across various parameters, such as trial start year, trial status, phase of development, leading industry and non-industry players ( in terms of number of trials conducted ), study design, target therapeutic area, key indications, study focus, clinical endpoints, enrolled patient population and regional distribution of trials. In the past few years, several organizations, such as ( in decreasing order of number of trials conducted ) Stanford University , National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health Clinical Center, University Hospital Brussels, Lowy Medical Research Institute, and Thomas Jefferson University , have emerged as the leading non-industry sponsors / collaborators that are engaged in clinical research efforts in this domain. It is also worth highlighting that disease-related parameters and safety / efficacy are amongst the most important clinical end points (measured across all trial phases) considered in studies evaluating encapsulated therapy products. ), study design, target therapeutic area, key indications, study focus, clinical endpoints, enrolled patient population and regional distribution of trials. In the past few years, several organizations, such as ( ) , National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health Clinical Center, University Hospital Brussels, Lowy Medical Research Institute, and , have emerged as the leading non-industry sponsors / collaborators that are engaged in clinical research efforts in this domain. It is also worth highlighting that disease-related parameters and safety / efficacy are amongst the most important clinical end points (measured across all trial phases) considered in studies evaluating encapsulated therapy products. An analysis of contemporary development landscape of more than 300 stakeholders that are engaged in the cell therapies domain. The analysis reveals companies that have the necessary expertise to help encapsulated cell therapy developers across various development processes in this field, highlighting the likely strategic partners across different regions. More than 40 cell therapy developers emerged as the most likely potential strategic partners in North America , based on multiple parameters, such as therapeutic focus overlap, cell type overlap, research programs, existing partnerships and developer strength. Examples of such companies include ( in alphabetical order , no specific selection criteria ) Gradalis, Innovative Cellular Therapies, Iovance Biotherapeutics, Juno Therapeutics, Kite Pharma, Tmunity Therapeutics, and TVAX Biomedical. , based on multiple parameters, such as therapeutic focus overlap, cell type overlap, research programs, existing partnerships and developer strength. Examples of such companies include ( , ) Gradalis, Innovative Cellular Therapies, Iovance Biotherapeutics, Juno Therapeutics, Kite Pharma, Tmunity Therapeutics, and TVAX Biomedical. A comprehensive market forecast analysis based on the primary growth drivers, the licensing deal structures and agreements that are expected to be signed over the course of next ten years. In addition, the report also includes information on (potential) sales-based revenues generated by encapsulated therapy products that are currently in late stages of development for the treatment of different chronic disorders, based on parameters, such as target consumer segments, likely adoption rates and expected pricing. It features likely distribution of the current and forecasted opportunity across the following segments: Type of therapeutic area (eye disorders, metabolic disorders, neurological disorders, and oncological disorders) Type of target disease indication (ataxia telangiectasia, breast cancer, diabetes, glaucoma, head and neck cancer, macular telangiectasia, metastatic and non-metastatic pancreatic cancer, Parkinson's disease, and retinitis pigmentosa) Type of encapsulation material used (alginate-based microcapsules, cellulose hydrogels, medical-grade plastics, and red blood cells) Key geographical regions ( North America , Europe and Asia Pacific ). , and ). Licensing deals are expected to remain the primary source of income for stakeholders in the short-mid term. It is also worth highlighting that encapsulated therapy products intended for the treatment of oncological disorders are expected to capture majority of the market share (~45%) by 2030, while therapy candidates being evaluated for the treatment of metabolic disorders are anticipated to grow at a relatively faster rate during the forecast period. Further, North America (primarily the US) and Europe are anticipated to capture the majority share by 2030, in terms of the sales-based revenues. This can be attributed to the fact that majority of mid-late stage product development programs in this domain, are centered in these regions. In 2030, North America is projected to capture around 50% of the overall market share in this domain. (primarily the US) and are anticipated to capture the majority share by 2030, in terms of the sales-based revenues. This can be attributed to the fact that majority of mid-late stage product development programs in this domain, are centered in these regions. In 2030, is projected to capture around 50% of the overall market share in this domain. An analysis of the investments made at various stages of development, such as seed financing, venture capital financing, debt financing, grants, capital raised from IPOs and subsequent offerings received by companies that are focused in this area. The report also features a detailed study on the various grants that have been awarded to research institutes in this field. It is worth noting that close to USD 400 million was raised through venture capital financing, representing around 40% of the total capital raised by industry players in the period 2013-2018. Within these instances, we noted that the maximum amount invested was through Series B funding rounds, wherein a sum of over USD 150 million was raised by various companies, from multiple investors. Further, in the last six years, more than 70 grants were awarded to various academic / research institutes in the US alone. Majority of these grants were provided to support research projects (31%) under the R01 mechanism (research grants), followed by grants awarded under R21 mechanism (exploratory / development grants, 14%). was raised through venture capital financing, representing around 40% of the total capital raised by industry players in the period 2013-2018. Within these instances, we noted that the maximum amount invested was through Series B funding rounds, wherein a sum of over was raised by various companies, from multiple investors. Further, in the last six years, more than 70 grants were awarded to various academic / research institutes in the US alone. Majority of these grants were provided to support research projects (31%) under the R01 mechanism (research grants), followed by grants awarded under R21 mechanism (exploratory / development grants, 14%). An analysis of the partnerships that have been established in the domain in the period 2013-2018, covering R&D collaborations, licensing agreements, mergers and acquisitions, product development and / or commercialization agreements, manufacturing agreements, clinical trial agreements, process development agreements, and other relevant deals. It is worth noting that research and product development agreements were the most popular type of deals inked in this domain, each representing 20% of the total number of collaborations. Other popular agreement models adopted by companies in this industry include product / technology licensing agreements, clinical trial agreements, distribution agreements, regulatory service agreements, and product development and commercialization agreements. Comprehensive profiles of industry players that are currently engaged in the preclinical / clinical development of their proprietary encapsulated cell therapies, featuring an overview of the company, its financial information (if available), and a detailed description of its product(s), highlighting mechanism of action, current development status, and key preclinical / clinical trial results. In addition, each profile includes a list of recent developments, highlighting the key milestones achieved, partnership activity, and the likely strategies that may be adopted by these players to fuel growth in the foreseen future. The report features inputs from a number of eminent industry stakeholders. Singh remarked, "Most industry experts concur on the opinion that the market is still niche and, in the short-term, technology developers will continue to rely on technology access fees, and other payments from licensing deals related to their proprietary technologies". The report also features detailed transcripts of discussions held with the following experts: Alexander Scheer (Chief Scientific Officer, Erytech Pharma) (Chief Scientific Officer, Erytech Pharma) Manuel Pires (Business Developer, Defymed) (Business Developer, Defymed) Michel Revel (Chief Scientist, Kadimastem) and Galit Mazooz-Perlmuter (Business Development Manager, Kadimastem) (Chief Scientist, Kadimastem) and Galit Mazooz-Perlmuter (Business Development Manager, Kadimastem) Mick McLean (Chief Executive Officer, Atelerix) (Chief Executive Officer, Atelerix) Quinton Oswald (Former President and Chief Executive Officer, Neurotech Pharmaceuticals) (Former President and Chief Executive Officer, Neurotech Pharmaceuticals) William L Rust (Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Seraxis) Yuval Avni (Former Chief Executive Officer, Beta-O2 Technologies) The research covers detailed profiles and assesses product portfolios of several companies, including (illustrative list, no specific selection criteria): ALTuCELL Azellon Cell Therapeutics Beta-Cell Betalin Therapeutics CellProtect Biotechnology Diatranz Otsuka Encellin EryDel Gloriana Therapeutics Living Cell Technologies MaxiVAX Neurotech Pharmaceuticals PharmaCyte Biotech Semma Therapeutics Sernova For additional details, please visit: https://rootsanalysis.com/reports/view_document/cell-encapsulation-focus-on-therapeutics-and-technologies-2019-2030/249.html or email sales@rootsanalysis.com Contact: Gaurav Chaudhary +1(415)800-3415 +44(122)391-1091 Gaurav.Chaudhary@rootsanalysis.com Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/742223/Roots_Analysis_Logo.jpg DALLAS, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Dynata, a global leader in first-party data and data services, is excited to announce its strategic partnership with Eyeota to offer global B2B and consumer audiences at scale. The expanded access to global audience segment creation allows marketers to leverage Dynata's reliable first-party data for coordinated global marketing campaigns, using seed and look-alike modeling to reach consumers and business professionals with greater accuracy and specificity. The Dynata audiences can be accessed through the Eyeota Audience Marketplace, and are initially available throughout the United States, United Kingdom, and Australia. The datasets include hard to reach B2B decision makers and a variety of consumer demographics. Self-declared automotive data will be made available in the Eyeota Audience Marketplace by June 2019. Dynata's first-party datasets are distinguished by their accuracy and depth. The profile data comprises 2,700 attributes derived from ongoing research relationships with more than 60 million opted-in consumers around the world. It is deterministic, declared data, provided by consumers, rather than observed data - a crucial distinction for marketers interested in knowing their target audiences. Eyeota's proprietary data onboarding methodology takes Dynata's survey response data and creates statistical models that enable this small, but incredibly rich data set to be scaled into targetable audience segments representative of the respective market populations. The resulting audiences will be available globally via major Demand Side Platforms (DSPs) for all activation channels including email, display, video, mobile, and addressable television. The offering will continually expand to include additional datasets and countries. This partnership also enables brands to extend their first-party research data into global, targetable custom audiences to drive precisely targeted and results-driven marketing campaigns. "Brands worldwide can now create and activate precisely targeted marketing audiences using the known data points of our first-party deterministic data," says Laura Lewellyn, VP Data Strategy and Partnerships at Dynata. "Eyeota has a strong reputation for data quality and consultative expertise, and we're delighted to offer our data on their respected global marketplace through this partnership." "Eyeota's proprietary onboarding methodology provides a privacy-compliant, scalable solution for businesses looking to maximise the value of their data," says Howard Luks, SVP, Data Products and Partnerships at Eyeota. "We're excited to help a leading research company, such as Dynata, digitise their powerful insights into actionable audiences." About Dynata Dynata is one of the world's leading providers of first-party data contributed by consumers and business professionals. With a reach that encompasses 60+ million people globally and an extensive library of individual profile attributes collected through surveys, Dynata is the cornerstone for precise, trustworthy quality data. The company has built innovative data services and solutions around its core first-party data offering to bring the voice of the customer to the entire marketing spectrum, from market research to marketing and advertising. Dynata serves nearly 6,000 market research agencies, media and advertising agencies, consulting and investment firms, and healthcare and corporate customers in North America, South America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific. For more information, go to www.dynata.com. About Eyeota Eyeota is an audience technology platform that enables the intelligent use of data. We work with marketers, data owners and research companies to provide distinct, comprehensive and qualified audience data. Our technology platform transforms audience data so that organisations can make smarter business decisions, understand customers and enrich marketing strategies. Eyeota was founded in 2010 and operates in Europe, Asia, Australia and the Americas. For more information, please visit www.eyeota.com. Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/808175/Dynata_Logo.jpg 2,247 Meters of Exploratory Reverse Circulation Drilling at Killag Gold District Has Identified a Significant Gold Mineralized Corridor with at Least 1km Strike Length Halifax, Nova Scotia--(Newsfile Corp. - May 9, 2019) -MegumaGold Corp. (CSE: NSAU) (OTC Pink: NSAUF) (FWB: 2CM2) ("MegumaGold" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that through its initial reverse circulation (RC) drilling program it has established anomalous gold over a one kilometre strike length in the Killag East area of the company's Killag exploration property. Highlights of the program appear below. Killag Deposit- Highlights KRGC-32 4m @ 4.94g/t from 67m KRGC-35 2m of 4.64g/t from 77m KRGC-31 5m of 1.31g/t from 31m KRGC-31 4m of 1.27g/t from 47m KRGC-35 2m of 2.39g/t from 55m KRGC-30 3m of 1.52g/t from 95m KRGC-36 4m of .76g/t from 49m KRGC-36 1m of 54.2g/t from 83m Note: True widths of the mineralized intervals are currently unknown; see Table 1 for details These initial RC holes were designed to test the extension and continuity of the "Axial Zone" of the gold-bearing anticlinal structure at Killag and follow up drilling will be required. Assay results are currently being interpreted and incorporated into a 3D geological model of the Killag Property. MegumaGold holds 180,754 hectares of prospective mineral titles in Nova Scotia, representing more then 466km of anticlinal coverage. With its massive land package the company firmly believes that we are in the first wave of a new golden era in Nova Scotia that has been ushered in by an understanding of how gold is hosted within the Meguma terrane, similar to Atlantic Gold's Touqouy deposit. Killag is just the first in MegumaGold's developing pipeline of emerging deposit assessments. Theo van der Linde, the President of MegumaGold Corp. stated: "Until recently Nova Scotia has been vastly under- explored for bulk tonnage mining scenarios similar to Atlantic Gold's Touqouy deposit. We're extremely pleased to be assessing our initial results and expand that understanding across our massive land package." The 2019 RC drilling program completed by the Company resulted in the discovery of new, high grade gold mineralization intercepts in zones of combined quartz vein and argillite that occur within, and to both east and west of, areas directly tested by previous exploration. These new mineralized intercepts remain open in both strike and dip extents within the Axial Zone and are targeted for additional drilling during the 2019 field season. The Company temporarily postponed work half-way through the proposed initial 20,000m Phase I drill program to await assays and to adjust its exploration plan to results received to date. Meguma is very pleased with the resulting optimization of its strategy which bore out in the discovery of new high grade drilling intercepts in the Axial Zone at Killag and multiple excellent new targets now drill-ready, coming out of our re calibrated exploration model. The Company will now target Killag, Ecum Secum, Gold Lake and Touqouy West as a current priority and immediate focus of the Company's ongoing exploration plans. Other documented targets are being further developed and added to the pipeline. Table 1: Killag Significant Drill Results *Killag East Area Drillhole Number Easting (m) Northing (m) Dip (Deg.) Azimuth (Deg.) Hole Depth (m) Significant Intervals From (m) To (m) Length (m) Gold Grade (Au g/t) KGRC-30 529872 4985170 -55 330 100 95 98 3 1.52 KGRC-31 529911 4985174 -55 330 67 23 25 2 0.40 KGRC-31 " " " " " 31 36 5 1.31 Incl. " " " " " 31 32 1 5.14 KGRC-31 " " " " " 47 51 4 1.27 Incl. " " " " " 47 48 1 4.48 KGRC-31 " " " " " 55 58 3 0.32 KGRC-31 " " " " " 64 65 1 0.22 KGRC-32 529898 4985231 -55 290 103 62 63 1 0.88 KGRC-32 " " " " " 67 71 4 4.94 Incl. " " " " " 67 68 1 17.86 KGRC-32 " " " " " 90 91 1 0.23 KGRC-33 529945 4985220 -55 290 60 16 17 1 0.13 KGRC-33 " " " " " 39 40 1 0.21 KGRC-34 529993 4985226 -60 290 36 22 25 3 0.23 KGRC-35 530058 4985241 -55 280 137 11 14 3 0.40 KGRC-35 " " " " " 55 57 2 2.39 Incl. " " " " " 55 56 1 4.70 KGRC-35 " " " " " 62 64 2 0.36 KGRC-35 " " " " " 70 72 2 1.29 KGRC-35 " " " " " 77 79 2 4.64 Incl. " " 77 78 1 9.09 KGRC-35 " " " " " 98 99 1 0.185 KGRC-36 530107 4985261 -55 290 119 15 17 2 0.480 KGRC-36 " " " " " 49 53 4 0.76 KGRC-36 " " " " " 57 58 1 1.04 KGRC-36 " " " " " 83 84 1 54.2 *See notes at end of press release Accompanying cross sections and drill plan maps can be viewed here: https://megumagold.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Meguma-May6-2019-cmbnd50619.pdf Killag Gold District Summary and 2019 Drilling Program The Killag Gold District held by MegumaGold lies in the eastern part of Halifax County, Nova Scotia, approximately 13km north of Sheet Harbour and 20km east of the producing Touquoy gold mine owned by Atlantic Gold Corporation. The district is reported in Nova Scotia Department of Energy and Mines database records as having produced at least 3,500 ounces of gold from underground mining between 1869 and 1946 at an estimated average gold grade of 0.96 oz/ton (32.91 g/t). Historic work in the immediate area of past mining is documented in government records and these clearly show that the property has not been extensively explored to date. Gold mineralization at Killag occurs in association with both bedding parallel quartz veins and discordant quartz vein arrays, both of which are particularly well developed in the hinge area of the tightly appressed Killag anticline (the Axial Zone). Gold also occurs locally in argillite associated with the quartz veined intervals. The anticline is doubly plunging and in the "Killag East" area it plunges moderately to the east. It is also asymmetric in geometry, having a steeply south-dipping to overturned south limb and a moderately north-dipping north limb. Historic underground exploration and mining were primarily focused on bedding parallel quartz veins on the south fold limb, although underground work was also carried out locally on the north limb. The 2019 RC drilling program completed by the Company resulted in the discovery of new, high grade gold mineralization intercepts in zones of combined quartz veins and argillite that occur in the vicinity of past workings and also to both east and west of the workings area, which was most directly tested by previous exploration. These new mineralized intercepts remain open in both strike and dip extents within the Axial Zone and are targeted for additional drilling during the 2019 field season. Interpreted results of 2018 airborne geophysics, historic work compilation and 3D modelling programs by MegumaGold were used to target 2019 RC drill holes at Killag. In February and early March of 2019. 20 inclined RC drill holes (1622m) were completed to initially test the Axial Zone mineralization concept in the "Killag East" area and to provide stratigraphic assessments in the Killag Central and Killag West areas (https://megumagold.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/K3D-mod.png) Adverse site conditions prevented completion of several planned holes in the latter two areas. Drill hole locations relative to the anticlinal trend and the Axial Zone target area are presented at (https://megumagold.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/K3D-mod2.png) The East Killag area that is proximal to the historic mine workings was tested by RC holes configured to intercept the interpreted Axial Zone target at progressively higher and lower stratigraphic levels, east and west, respectively, of the historic workings area. Holes were oriented to either test the anticlinal trend along approximately north-south cross section lines or drilled longitudinally along the Axial Zone target to test east-plunging stratigraphy in the modelled fold hinge area. High grade gold results related to quartz-veined argillite and greywacke intervals were returned from drilling along both types of 2019 RC lines and highlights of the program are detailed by cross sections here: https://megumagold.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Meguma-May6-2019-cmbnd50619.pdf QAQC Sampling, Assaying Protocol RC drill chip field samples measuring 1m in downhole length and approximately 2.5kg in mass were obtained through rotary splitting at the drill site. Field samples were assigned for processing by either screen metallics methods or regular assay methods on the basis of percentage of recorded quartz. Samples selected for regular assaying were submitted to the Minerals Engineering Center (MEC) at Dalhousie University, in Halifax, Nova Scotia, for crushing and subsequent pulverization to create >80% passing 200 mesh pulp material. Pulp material was riffle split to produce a 100g subsample that was sent by commercial carrier to ALS Canada Ltd. (ALS) in Sudbury, ON for processing, with subsequent gold analysis at that firm's Vancouver, BC facility by Fire Assay - Atomic Absorption (FA-AA) methods using a 30g pulp split. Multi-element analysis of specified pulp samples was also carried out at ALS. Samples selected for screen metallics processing were shipped by commercial carrier to Eastern Analytical Limited (Eastern) in Springdale, NL for crushing to -10 mesh followed by pulverization to 95 % passing -150 mesh. The plus 150 mesh fraction and one 30g split of the minus 150 mesh fraction were separately analysed for gold using standard FA-AA methods and a mass-weighted average of results for the two analyses was recorded as the gold grade for the sample. Archived splits from certain samples analyzed initially at ALS that returned anomalous gold levels were submitted to Eastern for screen metallics processing using the method described above. MegumaGold's Quality Control and Quality Assurance (QAQC) protocol for RC samples includes (1) field measurement of sample split weights, (2) blind insertion of certified reference materials at 1 in 40 frequency, (3) blind insertion of blank samples at 1 in 40 frequency, and (3) analysis of duplicate pulp splits at 1 in 40 frequency. QAQC samples are inserted/analysed in offset sequences. Both ALS and Eastern are independent, commercial analytical services firms registered to ISO 17025 and accredited by the Canadian Association for Laboratory Accreditation Inc. (CALA). MEC is an independent, analytical services laboratory operated by Dalhousie University that provides analytical and metallurgical processing services to commercial and academic clients. Both ALS and Eastern have internal QAQC protocols that include analysis and results monitoring for certified reference materials, blank samples and duplicate split samples. MEC has an internal QAQC protocol that applies to sample preparation parameters of the MegumaGold program. Results of all QAQC programs are continuously monitored by MegumaGold and acceptable results were received for all analytical work associated with this press release. Table 1 Notes (1) UTM NAD 83 Zone 20 coordinates (2) Weighted average interval >.10 g/t Au; maximum of 3 x 1m samples @ (3) Assay Values are uncut; included (incl.) higher grade subintervals are indicated (4) Assay values reflect Fire Assay- Atomic Absorption methods applied to (1) regular 30 g pulp Splits from ~2.5 kg Reverse Circulation (RC) drill chip samples and/or screen metallics processing of ~2.5 kg RC drill chip samples from selected intervals (5) Downhole sample intervals are represented; insufficient geological control is available at present to accurately estimate true widths from RC drilling results Review and Qualified Person This press release has been reviewed and approved by Regan Isenor, Chief Executive Officer of MegumaGold Corp.; Michael Cullen, P. Geo., of Mercator Geological Services Ltd., an "Independent Qualified Person" as defined under National Instrument 43-101, has reviewed and approved reporting of the drilling program results included in this press release. About MegumaGold Corp. MegumaGold is a Canadian junior gold exploration company engaged in the business of acquiring, exploring and developing natural resource properties. During 2018, the Company has centered its exploration focus on the developing Meguma formation of Nova Scotia. As a result, the Company has assembled a strategically-positioned tenure of 180,754 hectares within the Meguma Gold District. For more information please contact Mr. Regan Isenor, Chief Executive Officer 902-233-4381 info@meguamgold.com www.megumagold.com Forward-Looking Statements All statements in this presentation, other than statements of historical fact, are "forward-looking information" with respect to MegumaGold within the meaning of applicable securities laws including, without limitation economic estimates and any statements related to estimated mining costs. MegumaGold provides forward-looking statements for the purpose of conveying information about current expectations and plans relating to the future and readers are cautioned that such statements may not be appropriate for other purposes. By its nature, this information is subject to inherent risks and uncertainties that may be general or specific and which give rise to the possibility that expectations, forecasts, predictions, projections or conclusions will not prove to be accurate, that assumptions may not be correct and that objectives, strategic goals and priorities will not be achieved. These risks and uncertainties include but are not limited to exploration findings, results and recommendations, as well as those risks and uncertainties identified and reported in MegumaGold's public filings under its SEDAR profile at www.sedar.com. Although MegumaGold has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual actions, events or results to differ materially from those described in forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause actions, events or results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such information will prove to be accurate as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. MegumaGold disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise unless required by law. Neither the CSE nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the CSE) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/44690 Regulatory News: Sopra Steria (Euronext Paris: SOP), a European leader in digital transformation, today announced that it has been selected by seven Sparda banks in Germany to carry out the transformation of their information system. In view of this, Sopra Steria plans to acquire a 51% stake in the captive entity tasked by Sparda's cooperative banks with the development, maintenance and operation of their shared information system. This partnership will also strengthen Sopra Steria's foothold in the German banking market. The Sparda banking group is one of Germany's large retail banking networks. For seven of these banks based in Augsburg, Stuttgart, Frankfurt, Munich, Nuremberg, Regensburg and Dusseldorf a captive company develops, maintains and operates a shared information system. These seven banks have more than 2.5 million customers and manage around 7.7 million accounts. The partnership with Sopra Steria offers the Sparda banks a solution to overhaul their information system in order to reduce operating costs and upgrade to a state-of-the-art, agile, digital system. The transformation will be based on the implementation of the Sopra Banking Platform product and is expected to last about three years. Under this partnership, the captive which currently employs about 350 people will be reorganised to act as the driving force of the transformation and subsequently operate the information system shared by the seven Sparda banks in an optimal manner. As the developer, Sopra Banking Software will provide licences to each bank as well as maintenance and implementation services, which will be invoiced to the captive. Sopra Steria therefore intends to acquire a controlling stake of 51% in this captive, equivalent to an equity value of 22.6 million. The remaining 49% stake would continue to be held by the seven Sparda banks. This entity is expected to generate cumulative revenue of more than 1 billion over 13 years, with a targeted operating margin on business activity of about 8% following an initial phase corresponding to the transformation, which would have a slightly dilutive impact on the Group's operating margin. Looking beyond the information system transformation project, the partnership is expected to act as a catalyst for significant expansion in the German banking market. This partnership is poised to considerably strengthen Sopra Banking Software's presence in Germany via its Platform product, with its components assembled and localised specifically for this market. The captive would also serve as a springboard to gain a stronger foothold in the German retail banking segment, which is still fragmented. Accordingly, the business development plan for the captive includes the objective of moving other German banks to its future platform. The proposed transaction is subject to the usual closing conditions. If the deal is completed successfully, the closing could take place early in the second half of 2019. Upcoming events Wednesday, 12 June 2019: Annual General Meeting of Shareholders 2:30 p.m. Pavillon Dauphine, Paris Friday, 26 July 2019: Publication of 2019 half-year results (before market) and presentation meeting About Sopra Steria Sopra Steria, a European leader in digital transformation, provides one of the most comprehensive portfolios of offerings on the market, spanning consulting, systems integration, industry-specific solutions, infrastructure management and business process services. It provides end-to-end solutions to address the core business needs of large companies and organisations, helping them remain competitive and grow. Combining added value with innovative, high-performance services, Sopra Steria excels in guiding its clients through their transformation projects to help them make the most of digital technology. With over 44,000 employees in more than 25 countries, Sopra Steria generated revenue of 4.1 billion in 2018. Sopra Steria (SOP) is listed on Euronext Paris (Compartment A) ISIN: FR0000050809 For more information, visit us at www.soprasteria.com View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190509005677/en/ Contacts: Investor Relations Olivier Psaume olivier.psaume@soprasteria.com +33 (0)1 40 67 68 16 Press Relations Simon Zaks (Image 7) szaks@image7.fr +33 (0)1 53 70 74 63 Road Town, British Virgin Islands--(Newsfile Corp. - May 9, 2019) - Talon Metals Corp. (TSX: TLO) ("Talon" or the "Company") is pleased to provide an update on the Tamarack high-grade nickel-copper-cobalt project (the "Tamarack Project"), located in Minnesota, USA. The Tamarack Project comprises the Tamarack North Project and the Tamarack South Project. As part of the progression of the project through to the next key study phase, and due to the high-grade nature and spatial separation of the Massive Sulphide Unit ("MSU" - Figure 1), Talon is considering multiple options, including (i) shipping the MSU for offsite processing; and (ii) blending the MSU with other mineralization types for onsite processing. "Given the strategic nature of the Tamarack high grade Ni-Cu-Co Project we are studying a multitude of options. Shipping the MSU for offsite processing is one option which could potentially reduce upfront capex and time to production, as there will not be a need for a concentrator on site," said Henri van Rooyen, CEO of Talon. "We expect that this process would not sterilize ore. Direct Shipping Ore (DSO) may generate net cash to contribute to the construction of an onsite concentrator to process the other types of mineralization. As part of our decision-making process, Talon plans to also evaluate the impact of blending all mineralization types, including the MSU, on the quality of concentrates." "Talon may have the option to sell its nickel concentrates to smelters and/or partner with downstream battery metal facilities for producing battery precursor materials, which may materially reduce the cost of Lithium-ion batteries and consequently, electric vehicles," said Sean Werger, President of Talon. "Talon will complete the necessary studies to determine the best path forward." Talon is committed to the responsible mining and production of nickel for Electric Vehicles ("EV"). As a first step to evaluating different options, the Company has commissioned two pre-concentration amenability studies to take advantage of the density differences between sulphide minerals and gangue. Pre-concentration typically results in a net capex, energy and consequently a reduction in opex: Capex reduction: Less tonnage to the mill could reduce the mill size and therefore, the net capex; Less tonnage to the mill could reduce the mill size and therefore, the net capex; Reduction of opex: Milling requires high energy; therefore, an increase in grade and consequently, a reduction in mill tonnage, will require less energy; Hardness of the pre-concentrated material may be reduced resulting in further energy reduction; and Pre-concentration could remove deleterious elements, thereby reducing the use of re-agents in the flotation process. Spatial Separation of the MSU from the other Mineral Zones: No Sterilization Due to the MSU's spatial separation from the other mineral zones, the MSU could potentially be mined first, without sterilizing the other mineral zones - see Figure 1 below. Figure 1: Oblique east-north-east view of the Tamarack North Project mineral zones. Drilling and mining the MSU may not sterilize the other mineral zones. To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/2443/44692_c528468b64218b25_002full.jpg Description of Test Work Pre-concentration amenability test work is underway to evaluate if two styles of mineralization found in the Tamarack North Project could be upgraded by Dense Media Separation ("DMS") on a commercial scale. Heavy Liquid Separation ("HLS") testing will therefore be performed, which simulates DMS performance on a laboratory scale. Test Program 1: Removal of meta-sedimentary rocks from the MSU prior to milling and flotation The first test program is focusing on the Mixed Massive Sulphide ("MMS"), which is a combination of MSU and intervals of meta-sedimentary rocks - see Figure 2 below. The density contrast between these units is high and therefore, HLS testing is expected to differentiate between the sulphides and gangue, thereby potentially decreasing tonnage to the mill while at the same time having the potential to increase grade. Figure 2: Image showing Metasediment and Mixed Massive Sulphide (MMS) units from drill hole 13TK0171, from 573.3m to 580.8 meters depth To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/2443/44692_c528468b64218b25_003full.jpg Test Program 2: Removal of silicate minerals from the coarse-grained ortho-cumulative ("CGO") intrusion prior to milling and flotation The second test program is focused on the low grade disseminated sulphides in the CGO, which tend to be relatively coarse and patchy in texture - see Figure 3 below. HLS will be tested given the density contrast between the sulphide and silicate minerals. The objective is to reject most of the silicate minerals. Figure 3: 1.5m sample interval, from 406m depth to 407.5m depth in drill hole 16TK0242, was broken down into a " grid and marked where sulphide minerals were visually observed To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/2443/44692_c528468b64218b25_004full.jpg Possible Impact on Future Exploration Programs If low-grade mineralization can be pre-concentrated to above cut-off grades, future exploration at the Tamarack North Project may also focus on a large area of CGO mineralization as shown in Figure 4 below. Figure 4: Tamarack North Project mineral zones: Looking down (plan view). A large area of CGO mineralization that could be considered for future exploration is outlined using a red dash line. Red dots are MSU and/or MMS intercepts. To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/2443/44692_c528468b64218b25_005full.jpg Transportation Studies The Tamarack Project is located on infrastructure. Talon has partnered with Krech Ojard & Associates, Consulting Engineers of Duluth Minnesota to develop optimal transport solutions for both the MSU and separate nickel and copper sulphide concentrates. Qualified Person and Technical Disclosure Please see the technical report entitled "NI 43-101 Technical Report Preliminary Economic Assessment (PEA) of the Tamarack North Project - Tamarack, Minnesota" with an effective date of December 14, 2018 prepared by independent "Qualified Persons" (as that term is defined in NI 43-101) Leslie Correia (Pr.Eng), Silvia Del Carpio (P. Eng.) Tim Fletcher (P. Eng.), Daniel Gagnon (P. Eng.), Kebreab Habte (P. Eng.), Oliver Peters (P. Eng.), Tom Radue (P. Eng.), and Brian Thomas (P. Geo.) for information on the QA/QC, analytical and testing procedures at the Tamarack Project. Copies are available on the Company's website (www.talonmetals.com) or on SEDAR at (www.sedar.com). The laboratory used is ALS Minerals who is independent of the Company. Drill intersections have been independently selected by Talon. Drill composites have been independently calculated by Talon. The geological interpretations in this news release are solely those of the Company. The locations and distances highlighted on all maps in this news release are approximate. Oliver Peters, Mineral Processing Engineer, is a Qualified Person within the meaning of NI 43-101. Mr. Peters has reviewed, approved and verified the technical information disclosed in this news release, including sampling, analytical and test data underlying the technical information. About Talon Talon is a TSX-listed company focused on producing nickel responsibly for the electric vehicle industry. The high-grade Tamarack Ni-Cu-Co Project is located in Minnesota, USA (which comprises the Tamarack North Project and the Tamarack South Project). The Company has a well-qualified exploration and mine management team with extensive experience in project management. For additional information on Talon, please visit the Company's website at www.talonmetals.com or contact: Sean Werger President Talon Metals Corp. Tel: (416) 361-9636 x102 Email: werger@talonmetals.com Forward-Looking Statements This news release contains certain "forward-looking statements". All statements, other than statements of historical fact that address activities, events or developments that the Company believes, expects or anticipates will or may occur in the future are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements reflect the current expectations or beliefs of the Company based on information currently available to the Company. Such forward-looking statements include statements relating to the possible direct shipping of material, the effect of blending the MSU, potential reduction in capex, opex and time to production and possible increased recoveries, the sale of nickel concentrates, the results of the pre-concentration studies and test work, mining MSU and the future exploration of the Tamarack Project. Forward-looking statements are subject to significant risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause the actual results to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements, and even if such actual results are realized or substantially realized, there can be no assurance that they will have the expected consequences to, or effects on the Company. Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date on which it is made and, except as may be required by applicable securities laws, the Company disclaims any intent or obligation to update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise. Although the Company believes that the assumptions inherent in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and accordingly undue reliance should not be put on such statements due to the inherent uncertainty therein. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/44692 A bill to increase the U.S. Department of Educations budget by more than $4 billion is headed to the floor of the House of Representatives. On Wednesday the House appropriations committee approved legislation that would provide significant increases for grants aimed at disadvantaged students, after-school programming, and social-emotional learning on Wednesday. Its the first time since 2010 that Democrats have controlled the appropriations process in the chamber, but their bill is very, very far from becoming the law of the land. The committee approved the bill 30-23 and reported it to the full House. Democrats lauded the legislation for its increased support for child care, Head Start (which is part of the budget for the Department of Health and Human Services), and special education. Between K-12 and higher education, the bill would provide $75.9 billion to the Education Department for fiscal 2020, which begins Oct. 1. That would be a $4.4. billion increase, or a 6.2 percent hike over current spending. Trump had proposed cutting the departments budget down to $64 billion. This bill invests in educating our children to ensure a brighter future, including by relieving many of the financial barriers for families, said Rep. Nita Lowey, D-N.Y., the chairwoman of the House appropriations committee. An amendment to the bill adopted Wednesday would increase career and technical education funding by $10 million, magnet school funding by $5 million, and special education funding by $5 million over the amounts in the original legislation. Want more details about the Democrats federal education funding bill? Click here. Important reminder: The legislation hasnt been approved by the full House yet. More importantly, the Senate, which is controlled by Republicans, will likely introduce a bill thats different in several key respects. And Trump wont look kindly on big increases for the Education Department. So that $4.4 billion increase could end up being a distant dream for House Democrats. That was the primary message from Rep. Tom Cole, the subcommittees top Republican, on Wednesday. Cole said that while he supported the bills increases for special education, Impact Aid, and other areas, he expressed concern that its overall funding increases would get vetoed by the president, leading to either sequestration (mandatory spending cuts), a continuing resolution on spending that would amount to a punt by Congress, or another government shutdown. None of these is an acceptable outcome, Cole said. Still, under the Trump adminstration, Education Department spending has crept up slightly . School Safety in the Spotlight Perhaps the most extensive discussion about education took place when a Republican congressman introduced and then withdrew an amendment to the bill regarding school safety. The amendment from Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart, R-Fla., would have allowed $1.3 billion in grants for student support and academic enrichement to be spent on things like bulletproof glass and alert systems at schools. Diaz-Balart said his proposed amendment was simple language that gives school districts the option ... to use these funds for security-hardening measures in schools. But Rep. Rosa DeLauro, D-Conn., said she did not think statutory language would permit those grants under Title IV to be used on such school-hardening measures. (A parent whose son was killed at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Fla., criticized Democrats for blocking the language .) Democrats, however, said they were open to funding school-hardening measures in a separate appropriations bill. In addition, the committees report on the bill directs DeVos to issue guidance clarifying that Title IV funding cant be used to buy guns and arm teachers. The issue has become a huge point of contention between the department and Democrats. During a House hearing in March, Democrats revealed internal department communications that they said proved Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos had refused to clarify whether Title IV grants under the Every Student Succeeds Act could be used to arm teachers. While Democrats want more money for several programs, they want $40 million less for federal charter school grants , a cut of nearly 10 percent to $400 million. The move symbolizes how opposition to charter schools has gained more traction in the Democratic Party recently, particular during the Trump administration, although some prominent Democrats continue to support them. By contrast, magnet schools would get $125 million in the bill, an $18 million increase from current funding. Need a chart for the bills education funding numbers? Here you go: Comparing Education Budget Proposals from Trump and House Democrats Infogram Image: Rep. Rosa DeLauro, D-Conn., the chairwoman of the House subcommittee that overseas the U.S. Department of Educations budget, speaks at a committee hearing on federal spending on Capitol Hill on May 8, 2019. Follow us on Twitter at @PoliticsK12 . And follow the Andrew Ujifusa half of Politics K-12 @AndrewUjifusa . Regulatory News: LafargeHolcim has signed an agreement with San Miguel Corporation for the divestment of its entire 85.7 percent shareholding in Holcim Philippines Inc. for an enterprise value of USD 2.15 billion, on a 100 percent basis. Closing of the transaction is expected in Q4 2019 and is subject to customary and regulatory approvals. Holcim Philippines Inc. operates four integrated cement plants and one grinding plant. San Miguel Corporation is one of the Philippines' leading diversified conglomerates with operations in beverages, food, packaging, fuel and oil, power and infrastructure. The proceeds of this transaction will allow LafargeHolcim to further improve its debt ratio by approximately 0.3 times. With the divestment of its activities in Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore and the Philippines, LafargeHolcim exits South East Asia at a total enterprise value (EV) of USD 4.9 billion representing a 2018 EV/Recurring EBITDA multiple above 21 times. These transactions are highly value accretive and result in a significant deleverage of 0.6 times Net Debt to Recurring EBITDA ratio*. Jan Jenisch, CEO: "With the divestment of our activities in the Philippines, we are completing our exit from the increasingly hyper competitive arena in South East Asia. While this decision is based on our strategic portfolio review, we have reached very attractive valuations allowing us to achieve a new level of financial strength. We will have over performed our target ratio of Net Debt to Recurring EBITDA of 2 times or less* by the end of 2019. We have delivered on the promised strengthening of our balance sheet and we are on track to accelerate the execution of our Strategy 2022 'Building for Growth'." *Before application of IFRS 16, at constant foreign exchange and provided that the transaction is closed before end of 2019 About LafargeHolcim LafargeHolcim is the global leader in building materials and solutions. We are active in four business segments: Cement, Aggregates, Ready-Mix Concrete and Solutions Products. With leading positions in all regions of the world and a balanced portfolio between developing and mature markets, LafargeHolcim offers a broad range of high-quality building materials and solutions. LafargeHolcim experts solve the challenges that customers face around the world, whether they are building individual homes or major infrastructure projects. Demand for LafargeHolcim materials and solutions is driven by global population growth, urbanization, improved living standards and sustainable construction. Around 75,000 people work for the company in around 80 countries. More information is available on www.lafargeholcim.com Follow us on Twitter @LafargeHolcim About San Miguel Corporation San Miguel Corporation, together with its subsidiaries, is one of the largest and most diversified conglomerates in the Philippines by revenues and total assets, with sales that accounts for about 5.9% of the Philippine gross domestic product in 2018. Originally founded in 1890 as a single brewery in the Philippines, SMC has transformed itself from a market-leading beverage, food and packaging business with a globally recognized beer brand, into a diversified conglomerate with market-leading businesses in fuel and oil, energy, infrastructure, and investment in banking. SMC owns a portfolio of companies that is tightly interwoven into the economic fabric of its home market, benefiting from and contributing to, the development and economic progress of the Philippines. More information is available on www.sanmiguel.com.ph This media release contains inside information. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190509005784/en/ Contacts: Media Relations: media@lafargeholcim.com +41 (0) 58 858 87 10 Investor Relations: investor.relations@lafargeholcim.com +41 (0) 58 858 87 87 DALLAS, TX / ACCESSWIRE / May 9, 2019 / From one of the best salesmen in the country and salesperson of the year for the last thirteen consecutive years at Helms Bros Inc, a Mercedes Benz dealership in Queens New York. The salesperson started from sweeping the floors to working with local business owners to Fortune 500 CEO tycoons. Shazir Mucklai had the chance to exclusively interview Michael Nekava and get his take on how to get the best deal on your car: Here are his 5 tips 1. Just go with the flow. Mikey says, too often consumers go in with a predetermined, exact layout of what they want, this can be detrimental. The road map that the client may have drawn prior to their arrival always needs updating. Being open-minded and flexible and willing to go with the flow, will benefit the client tremendously. When the dealership works with you on pricing, and challenges, such as your trade-in value, your lease commitment fees, your credit, and overall deal, the dealership may have ways to assist you - if you assist them. Allowing the dealership to navigate your deal with you, will help both parties reach a win. Providing multiple color choices, advising more than one configuration of features, being receptive to floor or demo models, will widen the spectrum and you may be able to find the needle in the haystack deal of a lifetime. Avoid telling the dealer you want to wait for the car, rather offering them your credit card and license and tell them you are ready to make a deal today. Dealers and sales professionals will be more creative and aggressive if they know they are closing a deal. 2. 'We sell to people we like' This one is so underrated, we have all heard the expression before, people only buy from who they like. This is also true in the reverse, the dealer really only wants to go the extra mile with people that we like. Yeah, that's a secret, we only want to work with people that we get along with, sympathize with, admire, and truly inhibit good vibes. Unfortunately dealing with the public, the downfalls can be stressful and dealers are exposed to this more often than other industries. Mikey says when you come in, get on our good side, first things first, let us both appreciate each other, this is a magical ingredient in getting a great deal. Mikey recalls one specific client who is tougher to deal with than most typical clients, yet the client does something that can offset his difficult demeanor, he brings a Starbucks Cappuccino, that thing costs him $ 3.00. This tiny gesture is so tremendous on starting off on the right footing. Mikey says I will bend over backward for him. It's that little gesture that goes so far above and beyond, Mikey suggests do something for the place of business that you are going to go into, bring something, do you give out promos? Pens? Free hats? Bring it with you, cost you nothing. Nice to meet you, My name is John I'm with ABC business here are some of my cards and hats, I would love to do business with you, we also give kickbacks, start off the conversation, get it going in the right direction. Then we are going to start to mesh, then I am going to help you, 10x more than what you just gave me. The $3 coffee, I am going to save you $3,000.00. 3. Give the dealer a reason Give the dealer ammunition. As a salesperson, we need ammunition to go to management to justify what we need to accomplish. You want the dealer to lose profit to complete your transaction? You insist on a price that does not exist in our business model; well give us something to go to battle with to our managers. Too often clients just say 'You're too high', 'I can get it for cheaper', or just leave us in the dark. Don't leave us in the dark, give us a blueprint. Simply, if I have something to go to my management with, then, sure enough, we are gonna start talking business. If the client is looking at the sky, answering emails, picking up calls, and standoffish, the dealer will lose interest. Mikey advises bring documents, bring some printouts, bring a quote from another dealership, bring an email from another dealership, bring a marketing campaign. Bring something that we can dissect, anything that we can utilize, to try to match and beat, show management, restructure, all for your better deal in the end. 4. Send the dealers exactly what you want 'If you really, truly cannot go to the dealership and handle yourself in a normal dealership environment, then there is definitely power in the art of blind copy emails. Compose an email to yourself, blind copy 5 dealerships. Now all you need to do is go onto each dealer's website, look for the salesperson that's somewhat competent, cut and paste their email into your blank copy, do this for as many dealerships as you deem necessary. Compose a simple email that's direct, clean and does not offer a reply that's going to be time-consuming, such as 'well what color do you want', 'well how much money did you want down'. Spell it all out for the dealer! If you're looking to lease a car, just tell them the terms, I'm looking for a 3 year, 12000 miles, total out of pocket expense, all included in $2500. Give them that number so they don't have room to play with the numbers. Give them the term, give them the miles, give them a type of vehicle and let them know you won't accept anything more than MSRP, X which could be $50,000 and I won't accept anything below $ 48000 MSRP. And it has to have X options, the colors you are open to, and write something real like - I am sorry I am emailing it to you, unfortunately, I work nights and I sleep during the day. Any story that makes it necessary for the salesmen to say ahha I gotta email this guy. So you'll have 5 responses, you'll just find the one that has the best deal. And then you can take that best deal and walk into a dealership and use that as ammunition for number 3.' 5. Don't leave money on the table 'Number 5, Hidden money. Mikey says often clients visit the dealership with a lease return and always return the vehicles with more concentration on return fees. Very few explore hidden equity. I want you to stay with me and follow this process. Your leased vehicle, if there are no months left, 3 months left, or even one year left, that vehicle has two things that go for it at all times. One is a value, its worth something, let's call that X. For the second thing going for it is a dealer payoff, that's the amount the dealer needs to pay to own your vehicle, let's call that Y.A. At an estimated 10 percent of the time, your value of the vehicle X is greater than what the dealer has to pay off Y. You are walking around with money that you don't know about. So before you negotiate any deals, simply research the value of your vehicle trading wholesale actively in the market place. You will need to call your bank, who you make your payments to, and find out the dealer payoff. This last step is important because the dealer payoff is different than what you see on your bill every month. The value that the dealership pays without sales tax, which can be thousands in savings. Those two values when compared can often show that you are driving a car that is worth more than what the bank needs to satisfy your contract. You have hidden money that you're not even using in negotiations. So remember, research your value, you may have money hidden.' For more secrets , tips, and advice, follow Mikey on Instagram @MikeyMercedes CONTACT: Shazir@imperium-Pr.com SOURCE: SV Advisory Group View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/544911/How-To-Get-A-Deal-On-Your-Next-Car-From-the-Mercedes-Benz-Salesman-Of-The-Year-Michael-Nekava-AKA-Mikey-Mercedes Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - May 9, 2019) - Lifestyle Delivery Systems Inc. (CSE: LDS), (OTCQX: LDSYF) and (FSE: LD6) ("LDS" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that it has closed a non-brokered private placement financing announced on March 5, 2019 (the "Financing") by issuing a total of 19,424,163 units (the "Units") at a price of CAD$0.35 per Unit (the "Issue Price"), for total gross proceeds of CAD$6,798,457. Due to strong investor demand, the Financing was oversubscribed. Each Unit sold in the Financing consisted of one common share of the Company (each a "Unit Share") and one common share purchase warrant (each a "Warrant") entitling the holder to purchase one additional common share (a "Warrant Share") at a price of CAD$0.50 per Warrant Share for a period ending one year from the date of issuance. The Company may accelerate the expiration date of the Warrants if the daily volume weighted average share price of the Company's common shares on the Canadian Securities Exchange (or such other stock exchange as the Company's common shares are then trading on) is equal to or greater than CAD$1.00 for 10 consecutive trading days. In connection with the Financing, the Company has agreed to pay cash commissions of CAD$233,076 and to issue 665,931 finder's warrants (the "Finder's Warrant"). Each Finder's Warrant is exercisable for one Unit at CAD$0.50 per share for a period ending one year from the date of issuance. The securities issued under the Offering will be subject to a hold period expiring on September 10, 2019, pursuant to applicable Canadian securities laws. This news release does not constitute an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy, nor shall there be any sale of any of the securities, in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful. The securities have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "1933 Act"), or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold within the United States or to, or for account or benefit of, U.S. Persons (as defined in Regulation S under the 1933 Act) unless registered under the 1933 Act and applicable state securities laws, or an exemption from such registration requirements is available. About Lifestyle Delivery Systems Inc. Lifestyle Delivery Systems Inc. is a technology company that licenses its technology to a state-of-the-art production and packaging facility located in Southern California. The Company's technology produces infused strips (similar to breath strips) that are not only a safer, healthier option to any other form of delivery but also allows for inclusion of a wide spectrum of ingredients from over the counter medications to homeopathic, nutraceutical, vitamins and supplements. The technology provides a new way to accurately meter the dosage and assure the purity of selected product. From start to finish, the production process, based on the Company's technology, tests for quality and composition of all the ingredients used in each and every strip which results in a delivery system that is safe, consistent and effective. On behalf of the board of directors of Lifestyle Delivery Systems Inc. Brad Eckenweiler, CEO & Director FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT: investor.relations@lifestyledeliverysystem.com 1-866-347-5058 Cautionary Disclaimer Statement: The Canadian Securities Exchange has not reviewed and does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of the content of this news release. Information set forth in this news release contains forward-looking statements that are based on assumptions as of the date of this news release. These statements reflect management's current estimates, beliefs, intentions and expectations. They are not guarantees of future performance. The Company cautions that all forward looking statements are inherently uncertain and that actual performance may be affected by a number of material factors, many of which are beyond the Company's control. Such factors include, among other things: risks and uncertainties relating to the Company's limited operating history and the need to comply with environmental and governmental regulations. In addition, marijuana remains a Schedule I drug under the United States Controlled Substances Act of 1970. Although Congress has prohibited the US Justice Department from spending federal funds to interfere with the implementation of state medical marijuana laws, this prohibition must be renewed each year to remain in effect. Accordingly, actual and future events, conditions and results may differ materially from the estimates, beliefs, intentions and expectations expressed or implied in the forward looking information. Except as required under applicable securities legislation, the Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise forward-looking information. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/44701 Sudbury, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - May 9, 2019) - Transition Metals Corp (TSXV: XTM) ("Transition", "the Company") is pleased to announce that Rio Tinto Exploration Canada (RTEC) has signed an Option Agreement with Company partner Forum Energy Metals Corp (Forum) to earn an interest in Janice Lake Property (the Property). Janice Lake is currently under option from the Company to Forum and is located approximately 55km southeast of Key Lake Saskatchewan (for full details see Forum news release dated May 9, 2019). Under the terms of the Forum - RTEC agreement, RTEC will commit to spending $3 Million within 18 months on the Property with the option to vest a 51% interest by spending $10 Million over 4 years. Upon vesting its interest, RTEC can, at its option, earn a further 29% interest (for a total 80% interest) by spending a further $20 million over 3 years. About the Transition Agreement with Forum Forum currently holds an option to earn 100% interest in the Janice Lake project by providing Transition with 8,000,000 shares of Forum (received), completing expenditures of $250,000 over 6 months (completed), and issuing cash option payments of $250,000 over 48 months ($50,000 received). Once vested, Transition will retain a 2.0% Net Smelter Return royalty (NSR) of which 0.75% NSR can be purchased for $1.5 million. Transition is furthermore entitled to a $1.0 million cash payment upon the completion of a Feasibility Study and an additional $5,000,000 cash payment within 12 months of achieving Commercial Production from the Property (See Transition news release of February 6, 2018). To facilitate the Forum - RTEC agreement, the Company has entered into a Consent Agreement with Forum and RTEC. Prior to execution of the agreement, Forum doubled the size of the Property by staking a further 19,312 ha (for a total of 38,250 Ha) covering the entire 52 km strike of the Wollaston Copperbelt to which the Company's royalty and milestone cash payments will apply. Commenting on the results, Company CEO and President Scott McLean, P.Geo. stated: "We are very pleased that our partner Forum has secured a significant exploration arrangement with a quality major mining company like RTEC. The program planned by RTEC is robust and will advance Janice Lake in a way that has the potential to create value for our shareholders. Under the project generation business model employed by Transition, we have secured significant upside through the retention of a royalty and future cash payments on a huge 40,000 ha property with no risk and no cost to our shareholders." About the Janice Lake Sedimentary Copper/Silver Project, Saskatchewan Janice Lake is a sedimentary hosted copper project located approximately 55 km southeast of Key Lake, in north-central Saskatchewan with geologic features that are analogous to the giant Udokan development project in Russia. Prior to the acquisition of the project by the Company, limited historic work had been completed principally by Noranda and Phelps Dodge that identified 20 copper occurrences over a 6 Km trend. In September 2018, Forum, following up mapping and geophysical work undertaken earlier by Transition, competed 4 drill holes all of which intersected shallow chalcocite, bornite and native copper mineralization above 80m in depth, including Hole FEM-01, which intersected 19.0 m grading 1.0% Copper, including 5.7 m of 2.18% Copper within a 50.5 m interval grading 0.45% Copper (see Transition News Release of October 10, 2018). Qualified Person The technical elements of this press release have been approved by Mr. Greg Collins, P.Geo. (APGO), a Qualified Person under National Instrument 43-101. About Transition Metals Corp Transition Metals Corp (TSXV: XTM) is a Canadian-based, multi-commodity project generator that specializes in converting new exploration ideas into Canadian discoveries. The award-winning team of geoscientists has extensive exploration experience in established, emerging and historic mining camps and actively develops and tests new ideas for discovering mineralization in places that others have not looked, which often allows the company to acquire properties inexpensively. The team is rigorous in its fieldwork and combines traditional techniques with newer ones to help unearth compelling prospects and drill targets. Transition uses the project generator business model to acquire and advance multiple exploration projects simultaneously, thereby maximizing shareholder exposure to discovery and capital gain. Joint venture partners earn an interest in the projects by funding a portion of higher-risk drilling and exploration, allowing Transition to conserve capital and minimize shareholder's equity dilution. The Company has an expanding portfolio that currently includes more than 25 gold, copper, nickel and platinum projects across Canada. Cautionary Note on Forward-Looking Information Except for statements of historical fact contained herein, the information in this news release constitutes "forward-looking information" within the meaning of Canadian securities law. Such forward-looking information may be identified by words such as "plans", "proposes", "estimates", "intends", "expects", "believes", "may", "will" and include without limitation, statements regarding estimated capital and operating costs, expected production timeline, benefits of updated development plans, foreign exchange assumptions and regulatory approvals. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate; actual results and future events could differ materially from such statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially include, among others, metal prices, competition, risks inherent in the mining industry, and regulatory risks. Most of these factors are outside the control of the Company. Investors are cautioned not to put undue reliance on forward-looking information. Except as otherwise required by applicable securities statutes or regulation, the Company expressly disclaims any intent or obligation to update publicly forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Further information is available at www.transitionmetalscorp.com or by contacting: Scott McLean President and CEO Transition Metals Corp. Tel: (705) 669-1777 To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/44697 Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - May 9, 2019) - Spacefy Inc. (CSE: SPFY)("Spacefy" or the "Company"), the sharing-economy marketplace for inspiring space rentals targeting the creative industry, announced today that they have been selected as one of 60 finalists to compete in the live PITCH competition, to be held as part of the Collision 2019 Tech conference in Toronto between May 20th and 23rd, 2019. "This is the first year that Collision is to be held in Toronto, so we were already excited to attend, and to be an exhibitor at the conference," said Russ Patterson, Spacefy's CEO. "Getting shortlisted for the PITCH start-up competition means we get an incredible opportunity to talk about Spacefy on the mainstage, in front of attendees, organizers, partners, investors and media." About Spacefy Spacefy is a marketplace that connects creative professionals with spaces for their projects, productions, and events. Harnessing the power of the sharing economy, Spacefy gives creative professionals access to unique and underutilized spaces while enabling property owners to further monetize their space. Contact Information Spacefy Inc. Russ Patterson Chief Executive Officer russ@spacefy.com Adelaide Capital Markets Inc. Deborah Honig Investor Relations 647-203-8793 deborah@adelaidecapital.ca To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/44696 International Flavors Fragrances Inc. (NYSE: IFF) (Euronext Paris: IFF), a leading innovator of scent, taste, and nutrition, today announced the publication of its 2018 Sustainability Report: Toward a Circular Future. The report highlights IFF's accomplishments in embedding circular economy principles throughout the business and covers the Company's achievements in leveraging sustainable practices within its global footprint. Andreas Fibig, IFF Chairman and CEO, said: "The work that our employees have accomplished to ensure we continue to excel at our environmental goals is extraordinary. From our value chain to our leadership team, we have dedicated ourselves to creating a circular economy we can be proud of." Having surpassed its 2020 goals for greenhouse gas emissions (goal 25%, actual 33.8%), water (goal 50%, actual 68.2%) and hazardous waste (goal 25%, actual 42.1%) in 2017, the Company launched EcoEffective+ in 2018, which includes a science-based reduction target for greenhouse gas emissions, as its next generation of environmental goals. Focusing on the platforms of Positive Principles, Sensational People and Regenerative Products, the report demonstrates IFF's consistent progress with ambitious business and sustainability initiatives intended to create value for all its stakeholders. Key highlights include: Named A list for CDP Climate Change for the fourth consecutive year; Earned "A" for Water Security for the first time Listed on Barron's 100 Most Sustainable U.S. Companies, Euronext Vigeo's World 120 Index and FTSE4Good Developed Market Index Named a finalist in The Circulars, the world's premier circular economy award program Announced company-wide Diversity Inclusion vision and mission Piloted blockchain technology as a tool for ingredient traceability Achieved the industry's first FairWild-certified flavor or fragrance ingredient commercially available, globally Launched a patchouli initiative to support smallholder farmers in Indonesia Completed the Vetiver Together pilot program assisting 450 small-scale vetiver farmers in southern Haiti to increase food security and income diversification while supporting women's empowerment efforts and environmental conservation "With the launch of EcoEffective+ last year, we embraced more robust targets for emission reductions, zero waste to landfill and water stewardship," said Greg Yep, EVP and Chief Scientific and Sustainability Officer. "This roadmap will take us to 2025 and will help us support customers and stakeholders to achieve their own sustainability goals. A true partner, we are excited to collaborate with others to help safeguard our world and create a sustainable future." To read IFF's 2018 Sustainability Report visit iff.com/sustain and use SustainxIFF to follow the conversation on our social channels. Meet IFF International Flavors Fragrances Inc. (NYSE:IFF) (Euronext Paris: IFF) (TASE: IFF) is a leading innovator of scent, taste, and nutrition, with 97 manufacturing facilities, 105 R&D centers, and 39,000 customers globally. At the heart of our company, we are fueled by a sense of discovery, constantly asking "what if?". That passion for exploration drives us to co-create unique products that consumers experience in more than 90,000 unique products sold annually. Our 13,000 team members globally take advantage of leading consumer insights, naturals exploration, research and development, creative expertise, and customer intimacy to develop differentiated offerings for consumer products. Learn more at www.iff.com, Twitter , Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190509005738/en/ Contacts: Michael DeVeau Head of Investor Relations and Communications Divisional CFO, Scent 212.708.7164 Michael.DeVeau@iff.com CHICAGO, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Cision Ltd. (NYSE: CISN), a leading global provider of software and services to public relations and marketing communications professionals, today reported results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2019. Financial Highlights First Quarter 2019 Revenue increased 3.6% to $185.8 million Revenue, excluding the impact of purchase accounting, increased 4.8% to $188.9 million Operating income decreased 40.7% to $7.2 million Net income was $11.6 million versus a prior year net loss of $0.4 million versus a prior year net loss of Adjusted EBITDA increased 8.4% to $63.1 million Adjusted net income increased 16.9% to $27.0 million Adjusted net income per share was $0.19 "We are pleased to have delivered strong financial results for the first quarter of 2019, including record organic constant currency revenue growth of 4.9% versus the prior year, with solid growth in both the core business and in each of Falcon and TrendKite," said Kevin Akeroyd, Cision's Chief Executive Officer. "We have dramatically improved the value proposition we bring to our public relations and marketing communications customers, and these new offerings will feature prominently in our plans to further extend our industry leadership position. Over the coming quarters, our priorities will be on completing our outstanding integration work, while driving towards our long-term financial goals and objectives." First Quarter Business Statistics and Operational Highlights Americas revenues increased 3.8% to $126.4 million EMEA revenues increased 2.1% to $51.6 million APAC revenues increased 11.8% to $7.8 million Non-core revenues declined 53.6% to $0.6 million Average pro forma subscription customers increased 5.5% to approximately 45,300 Average annualized pro forma revenue per subscription customer, excluding the impact of currency, increased 0.7% to approximately $11,600 Customers that purchased services from us on a transaction basis decreased 6.4% to approximately 37,700 Average quarterly pro forma revenue per customer that purchased services from us on a transaction basis, excluding the impact of currency, increased 4.7% to approximately $1,440 Cross-sell bookings of software, distribution and insights in the US increased 8.4% to $3.0 million Subscription and Transaction Customer Trends All of the figures below include our acquisitions of Falcon.io ("Falcon") and TrendKite, Inc. ("TrendKite") and exclude the divestiture of our email marketing business for all periods shown and have been further adjusted to exclude the impact of fluctuations in foreign currency. Q1 2018 Q2 2018 Q3 2018 Q4 2018 Q1 2019 Q1 2019 compared to Q1 2018 Average pro forma subscription customers 42,884 44,025 44,499 45,333 45,243 5.5% Average annualized pro forma revenue per subscription customer $ 11,475 $ 11,579 $ 11,731 $ 11,612 $ 11,552 0.7% Pro forma transaction customers 40,216 41,172 38,152 39,173 37,662 (6.4%) Average pro forma revenue per transaction $ 1,375 $ 1,447 $ 1,350 $ 1,518 $ 1,439 4.7% Updated Full Year 2019 Outlook and Initial Second Quarter 2019 Outlook Our updated outlook for the full fiscal year ending December 31, 2019 appears below (all figures in millions, except share and per share amounts). Additionally, due to our acquisitions of Falcon and TrendKite and the divestiture of our email marketing assets that were all completed in the first quarter of 2019, we have provided an initial outlook for our second quarter ending June 30, 2019. These estimates are based on a number of assumptions that management believes to be reasonable and reflect our expectations as of the date of this release. Actual results may differ materially from these estimates as a result of various factors, and Cision refers you to the cautionary language regarding "Forward Looking Statements" included in this press release when considering this information. Updated 2019 Prior 2019 Initial Q2 2019 Q2 2018 Revenue $773 - $783 $775 - $785 $190 - $192 $187.5 Revenue, excluding the impact from purchase accounting $782 - $792 $782 - $792 $193 - $195 $187.8 Net income (loss) $10 - $20 ($1) - $4 ($1) - $1 ($6.6) Net income (loss) per share $0.07 - $0.14 ($0.01) - $0.02 ($0.01) - $0.01 ($0.05) Adjusted EBITDA $270 - $275 $270 - $275 $65 - $67 $66.1 Adjusted net income $122 - $125 $122 - $125 $28 - $30 $29.3 Adjusted net income per diluted share $0.82 - $0.85 $0.82 - $0.85 $0.20 - $0.21 $0.23 Pro-forma fully diluted weighted average shares outstanding 148.0 148.0 148.0 127.4 Depreciation expense $29 - $32 $30 - $33 $7 - $8 $7.4 Amortization expense $95 - $100 $105 - $110 $23 - $25 $26.2 Amortization expense included in cost of revenue $20 - $23 $24 - $26 $5 - $6 $5.9 Interest expense, including debt extinguishment costs $73 - $77 $76 - $79 $18 - $19 $20.5 Cash interest expense $65 - $67 $64 - $66 $16 - $17 $16.3 Stock-based compensation $9 - $10 $7 - $10 $2 - $3 $0.9 Capital expenditures, inclusive of capitalized software development $40 - $43 $38 - $42 $9 - $10 $6.3 The above outlook assumes the inclusion of results from our acquisitions from the date of their respective acquisitions through the quarter ended June 30, 2019 and year ended December 31, 2019, and the inclusion of results from our e-mail marketing assets from January 1, 2019 through the date of its divestiture. The updated outlook above assumes LIBOR of approximately 2.6%, EURIBOR of approximately 0%, and the following exchange rates with respect to the British Pound, the Euro and the Canadian Dollar for fiscal year 2019: Current Prior GBP to USD 1.29 1.29 EUR to USD 1.12 1.14 CAD to USD 0.74 0.76 A number of foreign currencies, including the Euro, the Canadian Dollar and the Swedish Kroner, have recently weakened against the US dollar. The negative impact of these changes in foreign exchange rates to our updated full year 2019 revenue and Adjusted EBITDA outlook since issuing our prior full year 2019 outlook is approximately $2.0 million and $1.0 million, respectively. We left both our full year 2019 revenue outlook, excluding the impact from purchase accounting and our full year 2019 Adjusted EBTDA outlook unchanged despite this anticipated currency headwind. Additionally, our outlook for 2019 excludes any additional acquisitions, divestitures, or other unanticipated events. See our discussion of non-GAAP financial measures included in this release. Conference Call and Webcast As previously announced, we will hold a conference call and webcast to review our first quarter 2019 financial results on Thursday, May 9, 2019 at 5:00 pm EDT. To hear the live event, visit the Cision investor website at http://investors.cision.com, or by dialing 1-877-443-4809 (participant dial in toll free) or 1-412-317-5235 (participant dial in International). For those accessing the call via Cision's investor website, we suggest logging in at least 15 minutes prior to the start of the live event. For those dialing in, participants should ask to be joined into the Cision Ltd. earnings call. A replay of the earnings webcast will be available approximately two hours after the conclusion of the live event on May 9, 2019. To access the webcast recording / conference replay, visit http://investors.cision.com or you can dial 1-877-344-7529 (US), 1-412-317-0088 (International), or 1-855-669-9658 (Canada). The replay access code for the earnings call is 10131339. The replay will be available through May 23, 2019. Forward-Looking Statements This communication contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including statements regarding our future financial and operating performance outlook for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2019, as well as information relating to the acquisitions of Falcon.io and TrendKite and our divestiture of certain e-mail marketing assets and our realization of the expected benefits therefrom. In this context, forward-looking statements often address expected future business and financial performance and financial condition, and often contain words such as "anticipate," "intend," "plan," "goal," "seek," "aim," "strive," "believe," "see," "project," "predict," "estimate," "expect," "continue," "strategy," "future," "likely," "may," "might," "should," "will," "would," "target," similar expressions, and variations or negatives of these words. Forward-looking statements are neither historical facts nor assurances of future performance. Instead, they are based only on our current beliefs, expectations, and assumptions regarding the future of our business, future plans and strategies, projections, anticipated events and trends, 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 and many of which are outside of our control. Accordingly, you should not place undue reliance on these statements, as actual results may vary materially. A detailed discussion of some of the risks and uncertainties that could cause our actual results and financial condition to differ materially from the forward-looking statements is described under the caption "Risk Factors" in our most recent annual report on Form 10-K filed on March 1, 2019, along with our other filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. Any forward-looking statement made by us in this communication is based only on information currently available to us and speaks only as of the date of this report. We do not assume any obligation to publicly provide revisions or updates to any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, should circumstances change, except as otherwise required by securities and other applicable laws. Please consult our public filings at www.sec.gov or www.Cision.com. About Cision Cision Ltd. (NYSE: CISN) is a leading global provider of earned media software and services to public relations and marketing communications professionals. Cision's software allows users to identify key influencers, craft and distribute strategic content, and measure meaningful impact. Cision has over 4,500 employees with offices in 22 countries throughout the Americas, EMEA, and APAC. For more information about its award-winning products and services, including the Cision Communications Cloud, visit www.cision.com and follow Cision on Twitter @Cision. Cision Ltd. and its Subsidiaries Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (in thousands, except per share and share amounts) (Unaudited) March 31, December 31, 2019 2018 Assets Current assets: Cash and cash equivalents $ 82,913 $ 104,769 Accounts receivable, net 140,024 120,882 Prepaid expenses and other current assets 32,311 22,824 Total current assets 255,248 248,475 Property and equipment, net 60,496 57,210 Other intangible assets, net 427,393 377,146 Goodwill 1,426,470 1,171,859 Operating lease right-of-use assets 65,737 - Deferred tax asset 4,101 4,034 Other assets 8,762 7,652 Total assets $ 2,248,207 $ 1,866,376 Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity Current liabilities: Current portion of long-term debt $ 13,953 $ 13,210 Accounts payable 15,265 15,603 Accrued compensation and benefits 37,745 29,323 Operating lease liabilities 14,626 - Other accrued expenses 80,936 82,507 Current portion of deferred revenue 170,588 139,725 Total current liabilities 333,113 280,368 Long-term debt, net of current portion 1,271,218 1,205,760 Deferred revenue, net of current portion 1,130 1,098 Operating lease liabilities, net of current portion 66,206 - Deferred tax liability 74,407 69,232 Other liabilities 10,738 21,601 Total liabilities 1,756,812 1,578,059 Commitments and contingencies Stockholders' equity: Preferred stock, $0.0001 par value, 20,000,000 shares authorized; no shares issued and outstanding at March 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018 - - Common stock, $0.0001 par value, 480,000,000 shares authorized; 148,328,727 and 132,716,541 shares issued and outstanding at March 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018, respectively 15 13 Additional paid-in capital 981,813 797,222 Accumulated other comprehensive loss (62,090) (68,941) Accumulated deficit (428,343) (439,977) Total stockholders' equity 491,395 288,317 Total liabilities and stockholders' equity $ 2,248,207 $ 1,866,376 Cision Ltd. and its Subsidiaries Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) (in thousands, except for per share amounts) (Unaudited) Three months ended March 31, 2019 2018 Revenue $ 185,804 $ 179,293 Cost of revenue 66,053 64,278 Gross Profit 119,751 115,015 Operating costs and expenses: Sales and marketing 33,233 29,708 Research and development 8,543 6,700 General and administrative 51,965 46,222 Amortization of intangible assets 18,811 20,250 Total operating costs and expenses 112,552 102,880 Operating income 7,199 12,135 Non operating income (expense): Foreign exchange gains (losses) 3,082 (7,883) Interest and other income (loss), net 317 (256) Gain on sale of business 28,144 - Interest expense (19,273) (19,688) Loss on extinguishment of debt (355) (2,432) Total non operating income (loss) 11,915 (30,259) Income (loss) before income taxes 19,114 (18,124) Provision for (benefit from) income taxes 7,480 (17,682) Net income (loss) 11,634 (442) Other comprehensive income-foreign currency translation adjustments 6,851 7,075 Comprehensive income $ 18,485 $ 6,633 Net income (loss) per share: Basic $ 0.08 $ (0.00) Diluted $ 0.08 $ (0.00) Weighted average shares outstanding used in computing per share amounts: Basic 145,413,574 123,946,264 Diluted 146,356,683 123,946,264 Cision Ltd. and its Subsidiaries Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (in thousands) (Unaudited) Three months ended March 31, 2019 2018 Cash flows from operating activities Net income (loss) $ 11,634 $ (442) Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by operating activities: Depreciation and amortization 31,021 33,277 Non-cash interest charges and amortization of debt discount and deferred financing costs 2,780 3,198 Equity-based compensation expense 2,081 1,341 Provision for doubtful accounts 267 1,572 Deferred income taxes 35 (18,791) Unrealized currency translation (gains) losses (3,008) 7,864 Gain on sale of business (28,144) - Payment of contingent consideration (4,296) - Other - 60 Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of effects of acquisitions and disposal: Accounts receivable (6,171) (6,812) Prepaid expenses and other current assets (2,779) (2,950) Operating lease right-of-use assets 4,384 - Other assets (442) 48 Accounts payable (2,701) (443) Accrued compensation and benefits 5,098 (17) Other accrued expenses (843) (3,330) Deferred revenue 18,420 20,853 Operating lease liabilities (2,144) - Other liabilities 3,701 875 Net cash provided by operating activities 28,893 36,303 Cash flows from investing activities Purchases of property and equipment (4,377) (3,739) Software development costs (7,954) (5,033) Acquisitions of businesses, net of cash and restricted cash acquired of $6,068 and $2,711 (148,541) (62,713) Proceeds from disposal of business 44,865 - Other 21 - Net cash used in investing activities (115,986) (71,485) Cash flows from financing activities Proceeds from revolving credit facility 40,000 - Repayment of revolving credit facility (40,000) - Proceeds from term credit facility, net of debt discount of $1,013 73,987 - Repayments of term credit facility (3,494) (3,362) Payments of deferred financing costs (1,619) (131) Proceeds from the exercise of stock options 264 - Payment of contingent consideration (3,695) (2,873) Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities 65,443 (6,366) Effect of exchange rate changes on cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash 394 742 Decrease in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash (21,256) (40,806) Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash Beginning of period 104,769 148,654 End of the period $ 83,513 $ 107,848 Supplemental disclosure of cash flows information Issuance of shares for acquisitions 182,248 20,143 Use of Non-GAAP Financial Measures Non-GAAP results are presented only as a supplement to our financial statements based on US generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP). Non-GAAP financial information is provided to enhance the reader's understanding of our financial performance, but none of these non-GAAP financial measures are recognized terms under GAAP, and non-GAAP measures should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for financial measures calculated in accordance with GAAP. Reconciliations of the most directly comparable GAAP measures to non-GAAP measures, such as Adjusted EBITDA, and Adjusted net income per share, are provided within the schedules attached to this release. We use non-GAAP measures in our operational and financial decision-making, believing that it is useful to exclude certain items in order to focus on what we deem to be a more reliable indicator of ongoing operating performance and our ability to generate cash flow from operations. As a result, internal management reports used during monthly operating reviews include Adjusted EBITDA, and Adjusted net income per share. Additionally, we believe that the presentation of non-GAAP measures provides information that is useful to investors as it indicates, for example, our ability to meet capital expenditures and working capital requirements and otherwise meet our obligations as they become due. Investors are cautioned that non-GAAP financial measures are not a substitute for GAAP disclosures. This communication also includes certain forward-looking non-GAAP financial measures. We are unable to present without unreasonable efforts a reconciliation of forward-looking non-GAAP financial information to the corresponding GAAP financial information because management cannot reliably predict all of the necessary information. Forward-looking non-GAAP financial information is based on numerous assumptions, including assumptions with respect to general business, economic, market, regulatory and financial conditions and various other factors, all of which are difficult to predict and many of which are beyond our control. Accordingly, investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance on this information. Non-GAAP measures are frequently used by securities analysts, investors, and other interested parties in their evaluation of companies comparable to Cision, many of which present non-GAAP measures when reporting their results. These measures can be useful in evaluating our performance against our peer companies because we believe the measures provide users with valuable insight into key components of GAAP financial disclosures. However, non-GAAP measures have limitations as an analytical tool. Non-GAAP measures are not necessarily comparable to similarly titled measures used by other companies. They are not presentations made in accordance with GAAP, are not measures of financial condition or liquidity, and should not be considered as an alternative to profit or loss for the period determined in accordance with GAAP or operating cash flows determined in accordance with GAAP. As a result, you should not consider such performance measures in isolation from, or as a substitute analysis for, results of operations as determined in accordance with GAAP. Cision Ltd. and its Subsidiaries Reconciliation of Net Income (Loss) to EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA (in millions) (Unaudited) Three months ended March 31, 2019 2018 Change Net income (loss) $ 11.6 $ (0.4) $ 12.1 Depreciation and amortization 31.0 33.3 (2.3) Interest expense and loss on extinguishment of debt 19.6 22.1 (2.5) Provision for (benefit from) income taxes 7.5 (17.7) 25.2 EBITDA (1) 69.8 37.3 32.5 Acquisition and offering related costs 19.3 10.9 8.4 Stock-based compensation 2.1 1.3 0.7 Deferred revenue reduction from purchase accounting 3.1 0.9 2.2 Gain on sale of business (28.1) 0.0 (28.1) Unrealized translation (gain) loss (3.0) 7.9 (10.9) Adjusted EBITDA (2) $ 63.1 $ 58.2 $ 4.9 Cision Ltd. and its Subsidiaries Reconciliation of Net Income (Loss) to Adjusted Net Income and Adjusted Net Income per Diluted Share (in millions, except for per share and share amounts) (Unaudited) Three months ended March 31, 2019 2018 Change Net income (loss) $ 11.6 $ (0.4) $ 12.1 Provision for (benefit from) income taxes 7.5 (17.7) 25.2 Acquisition and offering related costs 19.3 10.9 8.4 Gain on sale of business (28.1) - (28.1) Stock-based compensation expense 2.1 1.3 0.8 Deferred revenue reduction from purchase accounting 3.1 0.9 2.2 Amortization related to acquired intangible assets 23.7 25.9 (2.2) Non-recurring interest and loss on extinguishment of debt 0.4 2.4 (2.1) Unrealized translation (gain) loss (3.0) 7.9 (10.9) Adjusted Income before income taxes 36.5 31.3 5.3 Less: Income tax at a 26% rate (9.5) (8.1) (1.4) Adjusted net income (3) $ 27.0 $ 23.1 $ 3.9 Pro forma fully-diluted weighted average shares outstanding 145.4 123.9 21.5 Adjusted net income per diluted share (4) $ 0.19 $ 0.19 $ - Cision Ltd. and its Subsidiaries Reconciliation of Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities to Adjusted Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities (in millions) (Unaudited) Three months ended March 31, 2019 2018 Change Net cash provided by operating activities $ 28.9 $ 36.3 $ (7.4) Acquisition and offering related costs 19.3 10.9 8.4 Adjusted net cash provided by operating activities (5) $ 48.2 $ 47.2 $ 1.0 (1) Cision defines EBITDA as net income (loss), plus depreciation and amortization expense, plus interest expense and loss on extinguishment of debt, plus provision for (or minus benefit from) income taxes. (2) Cision defines Adjusted EBITDA as EBITDA, further adjusted for acquisition and offering related costs, stock-based compensation, deferred revenue reduction from purchase accounting, (gains) losses related to divested businesses or assets, sponsor fees and expenses, and unrealized translation losses (gains). All of the items included in the reconciliation from net income to Adjusted EBITDA are either non-cash items or are items that we consider to be less useful in assessing our operating performance. In the case of the non-cash items, we believe that investors can better assess our operating performance if the measures are presented without such items because, unlike cash expenses, these adjustments do not affect our ability to generate free cash flow or invest in our business. For example, by excluding depreciation and amortization from EBITDA, users can compare operating performance without regard to different accounting determinations such as useful life. In the case of the other items, we believe that investors can better assess operating performance if the measures are presented without these items because their financial impact does not reflect ongoing operating performance. (3) Cision defines Adjusted net income as net income (loss) plus provision for (or minus benefit from) income taxes, further adjusted for acquisition and offering related costs, (gains) losses related to divested businesses or assets, stock-based compensation, deferred revenue reduction from purchase accounting, amortization related to acquired intangibles, non-recurring interest and losses on extinguishment of debt, sponsor fees and expenses, and unrealized translation losses (gains), which together, sum to Adjusted net income (loss) before income taxes. Adjusted net income (loss) before income taxes is then taxed at an assumed long-term corporate tax rate of 26%. All of the items included in the reconciliation from net income to Adjusted net income are either non-cash items or are items that we consider to be less useful in assessing our operating performance. In the case of the non-cash items, we believe that investors can better assess our operating performance if the measures are presented without such items because, unlike cash expenses, these adjustments do not affect our ability to generate free cash flow or invest in our business. For example, by excluding the amortization related to acquired intangibles, users can compare operating performance without regard to highly variable amortization expenses related to our acquisitions. In the case of the other items, we believe that investors can better assess operating performance if the measures are presented without these items because their financial impact does not reflect ongoing operating performance. (4) Cision defines Adjusted net income per diluted share as Adjusted net income, as defined above, divided by the fully-diluted pro forma weighted average shares outstanding for the period. For purposes of calculating the number of fully diluted shares outstanding, we have excluded the potential impact of dilution from outstanding warrants to purchase shares of our common stock prior to the dates of their conversion, and stock options and restricted units issued and outstanding pursuant to our 2017 Omnibus Incentive Plan. During the second quarter of fiscal 2018, we issued an aggregate of 6,342,989 ordinary shares (6,100,209 ordinary shares on May 18, 2018 and 242,780 ordinary shares on June 4, 2018), in exchange for all of our outstanding warrants, pursuant to the completion of our warrant exchange transactions. During the third quarter of 2018, we issued 2,000,000 ordinary shares for the earn-out achieved during the quarter. Commencing on these respective issuance dates, we included the issued shares in our fully-diluted pro forma weighted average share count. (5) Cision defines Adjusted net cash provided by operating activities as net cash provided by operating activities adjusted for acquisition related costs and expenses. Investor Contact: Jack Pearlstein Chief Financial Officer Jack.Pearlstein@cision.com Media Contact: Jenn Deering Davis VP, Communications Jenn.Deering.Davis@cision.com Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/467136/cision_logo.jpg Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - May 9, 2019) - Jaguar Financial Corporation (TSXV: JFC) ("Jaguar" or the "Company") today announced that it has appointed Ron Bedard as a director of the Company to fill the vacancy left by the resignation of Martin Schultz. Mr. Bedard, MBA has served as President and Chief Executive Officer at SCT Oilfield since 2013. Mr. Bedard also serves on the SCT Oilfield board. Mr. Bedard served as Chief Operating Officer of Lakeside Steel, Inc. between 2008 and 2012. He also served as the Chief Executive Officer and President of Lakeside Steel, Inc. and on the Board of Lakeside. Lakeside was twice named to the TSXV 50, an index of top performers. Mr Bedard is a current doctoral candidate at Liberty University. He holds an MBA, Management Sturdies diploma from McMaster, Harvard Business School executive education, Cornell University executive education, Corporate Directors Forum Directors School, and a Post Graduate certificate in energy studies from University of Texas. Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. About Jaguar Financial Corporation Jaguar is a Canadian merchant bank that generally invests in undervalued, overlooked and underappreciated public companies where Jaguar determines that one or more changes could be made to create shareholder value. For additional information on this press release, please contact: Vic Alboini, Chairman & Chief Executive Officer Jaguar Financial Corporation 416-845-1325 To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/44703 AURORA, Ontario, May 09, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Magna International Inc. (TSX: MG; NYSE: MGA) today announced voting results from its 2019 annual meeting of shareholders. A total of 244,128,107 Common Shares or 75.56% of our issued and outstanding Common Shares were represented in person or by proxy at the meeting. Shareholders voted by a show of hands in favour of each item of business other than the shareholder proposal. Voting results were as follows for the items of business addressed at the meeting: Werbehinweise: Die Billigung des Basisprospekts durch die BaFin ist nicht als ihre Befurwortung der angebotenen Wertpapiere zu verstehen. Wir empfehlen Interessenten und potenziellen Anlegern den Basisprospekt und die Endgultigen Bedingungen zu lesen, bevor sie eine Anlageentscheidung treffen, um sich moglichst umfassend zu informieren, insbesondere uber die potenziellen Risiken und Chancen des Wertpapiers. Sie sind im Begriff, ein Produkt zu erwerben, das nicht einfach ist und schwer zu verstehen sein kann. Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - May 9, 2019) - Defiance Silver Corp. (TSXV: DEF) ("Defiance") is pleased to announce that Chris Wright has joined Defiance as a Director and Executive Chairman of the Board. Mr. Wright adds significant depth to the board with over 28 years in the investment industry. He is currently the Founding Partner, President & Director of Windermere Capital (Canada) Inc, an investment firm and portfolio adviser to two private investment funds - the Navigator Fund and the Breakaway Strategic Resource Fund that are both significant shareholders of Defiance. Prior to Windermere, Mr. Wright held senior positions with RBC Dominion Securities and Solium Capital. Since 2002, he has worked with leading hedge funds and managers throughout North America to develop proprietary and customized investment solutions for institutional and high net worth investors. Mr. Wright is a Registered Portfolio Manager and a graduate of Bishop's University. Peter J. Hawley, Interim President & CEO of Defiance, stated, "On behalf of the Board, I would like to welcome Chris to the Defiance team. Chris brings significant financial market knowledge and financing depth to the board. His extensive experience and success in managing investment funds in the mining sector, fund-raising and deal structuring will be a tremendous benefit to Defiance shareholders as we advance both the San Acacio Silver deposit and Tepal Gold-Copper project in Mexico." Mr. Peter J. Hawley, P.Geo. Interim President & CEO, is a Qualified Person within the meaning of National Instrument 43-101 and has approved the technical information in this press release. About Defiance Silver Corp. Defiance Silver Corp. (TSXV: DEF) (OTC: DNCVF) (FSE: D4E) is a district scale resource exploration company advancing the San Acacio Deposit, located in the historic Zacatecas Silver District and the 100% owned Tepal Gold/Copper Project in Michoacan state, Mexico. Defiance is managed by a team of proven mine developers with a track record of exploring, advancing and developing several operating mines and advanced resource projects. Defiance's corporate mandate is to expand the San Acacio and Tepal projects to become premier Mexican silver and gold deposits. Please visit our YouTube channel for more information on our projects. On behalf of Defiance Silver Corp. "Peter J. Hawley" Interim President & CEO Chairman of the Board, Director For more information, please contact: Sunny Pannu - Corporate Development (604) 669 7315 or via email at pannu@defiancesilver.com 2300 - 1177 West Hastings Street Vancouver, BC V6E 2K3 www.defiancesilver.com Tel: 604-669-7315 Email:info@defiancesilver.com Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/44708 Photo: Contributed Sadok Ukrainian Dance Ensemble There will be high jumps and dramatic storylines during the 19th annual Okanagan Ukrainian Festival, ROOTS, in Vernon May 26. The family friendly event will draw from the rich history and cultural traditions of Ukrainian Canadians. Sadok Ukrainian Dance Ensemble will be joined by special guests to present "a celebration of the journey of life and the significance of the generations that came before, establishing the roots of culture for Ukrainian Canadians today," the ensemble announced in a release. Sadok will be joined special guests Pokotillo Ukrainian Dancers of Kamloops and the Honkitonks quartet, which features three of Sadoks senior dancers. The show is set to go on Sunday, May 26 at 2 p.m. at the Vernon Performing Arts Centre. Banks were happy to lend because the title deed to the land were handed over to them. Banks ought to have asked the primary question to Amrapali does the land belong to you? The Supreme Court wondered how the recalcitrant builder Amrapali could have mortgaged the land belonging to homebuyers and obtained loan. One wishes the apex court had ordered all the state governments and Union Territories to mandate registration of undivided share of land (UDS). As it is, such a salutary practice exists only in Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. There are two evils among others plaguing property transactions in the country. First, is the opaque practice of transferring on power of attorney (POA) i.e., transferring the beneficial title without the nominal or legal title being transferred. The Supreme Court had struck down this practice way back in 2011 and cautioned buyers that they would be buying POA properties only at their own peril. Having done this and as a sequel it ought to have addressed the other evil non-registration of UDS separately in large parts of the country. In Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, homebuyers hotfoot to the sub-registrars office twice first on the occasion of first ownership i.e., when the UDS is registered in their favor by the builder and a few years later when the building is completed, the occasion felicitously referred to as second ownership. They do not mind the trouble in going to the registrars office twice over because they feel secure when both are registered land and building. The UDS conceptually is associated with builder floor apartments and large gated communities. Let us say, a builder constructs six flats on a land on which stood a bungalow till recently. Three of the flats are given to the land owner in return for he giving the land free to the builder who makes money by selling the remaining three flats to buyers. Now, the problem is how to secure the interests of the buyers? In Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, this is straightforward the buyers insist on the proportionate share of the land being registered in their name. In other parts of the country, it is left to implication, a dangerous one at that when a flat belongs to the buyer it is implied that he is the owner of the proportionate part of the land as well. It is strange that big governmental housing bodies like the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) think nothing of the UDS when it is of seminal importance. The UDS is a valuable right as the building itself is bound to depreciate over years. Land is perhaps the only asset that appreciates with time. Shouldnt this valuable assets be evidenced by a separate legal document? One must hasten to add that while the UDS indeed is a valuable independent asset, its owner cannot transfer the land itself unilaterally. Of course, he can transfer it along with the flat. In other words, though registered separately, the two, proportionate land embodied in the UDS and the superstructure, can be transferred only as a package i.e., as a bundled product. Not bad at all because there is no curb or bar on transfer as such. If all the owners of land agree they can again demolish the building after say 50 years and ask a builder to build afresh or sell the land and divide the proceeds among themselves pro rata. The UDS becomes a complicated calculation in a gated community or condominium where there could be 100 to 3000 flats. But the underlying principle is the same. Amrapali and banks were both guilty. Amrapali took the homebuyers both for a ride and granted. Banks were happy to lend because the title deed to the land were handed over to them. Banks ought to have asked the primary question to Amrapali does the land belong to you? Amrapali would have been stumped. (The writer is a senior columnist and tweets @smurlidharan) Jet Airways has more than 440 slots at Mumbai and Delhi airports, New Delhi: Civil Aviation Minister Suresh Prabhu has sought a report on the allocation of airport slots vacated by Jet Airways to other airlines, an official source said on Wednesday. In the wake of crisis-hit Jet Airways suspending operations, the ministry decided to allocate the vacant slots at the airports in the national capital and Mumbai to other carriers. The move is part of larger efforts to increase capacity amid recent surge in airfares. According to the source, the minister has asked Civil Aviation Secretary Pradeep Singh Kharola for a report on the Jet Airways' slots that have been allocated to other airlines so far. The report is to be submitted by 11 May. The development also comes against the backdrop of concerns raised in certain quarters about the process being followed in temporary allocation of Jet Airways' slots. The slots are being given to other airlines on an interim basis and decisions are taken by a committee set up by the ministry. Jet Airways has more than 440 slots at Mumbai and Delhi airports, a ministry official said last month. As per the source, the minister has asked the secretary to ensure that all slot allocations have been made on an interim basis by following all applicable guidelines in a transparent manner. The source also said the minister has directed that a final decision on allocation of Jet Airways slots should not be taken till conclusion of the resolution plan that is being worked out by the airline's lenders. The State Bank of India-led consortium of domestic lenders to Jet Airways has already sought bids for the ailing airline, which shuttered operations on 17 April after it ran out of cash. The list of final bidders is likely to be finalised this week. On Wednesday, Jet Airways gave a clarification to the stock exchanges regarding reports that Atmosphere Airlines has submitted an expression of interest along with Naresh Goyal and four other companies. "The bidding process is initiated by and managed by SBI Capital Markets Ltd under a resolution plan undertaken by a consortium of domestic lenders led by State Bank of India. "The company is not involved in the bidding process and has no information with regard to same and is accordingly not in a position to comment," the airline said in a filing. Naresh Goyal is the founder of Jet Airways. Earlier on Wednesday, Goyal's daughter Namrata Goyal said that her father is not part of any consortium. "I'm Naresh Goyal's daughter and this is to clarify that he's not part of any consortium and this information is completely misleading and mischievous (sic)," she said in a tweet. The corporate affairs ministry maintains a fairly reliable database that is not a 'black box', a senior official said on Thursday and emphasised that it is up to statistical authorities to decide on which data is representative for GDP calculation New Delhi: The corporate affairs ministry maintains a fairly reliable database that is not a "black box", a senior official said on Thursday and emphasised that it is up to statistical authorities to decide on which data is representative for GDP calculation. Against the backdrop of concerns over data used for calculating GDP numbers, Corporate Affairs Secretary Injeti Srinivas asserted that the ministry's MCA 21 portal is a "trust-based system" as the information reported there are company disclosures. A report by the National Sample Survey Office (NSSO) on the services sector found that nearly 36 percent of companies in the MCA 21 system that were used in computing GDP were either not traceable or not classified properly. MCA 21 is an electronic repository of corporate filings. "The information reported on MCA 21 are company disclosures and companies have to validate it. It is a trust-based system. We have been alive to this problem of data reliability and have been continuously taking steps for making it highly reliable," Srinivas told PTI. Filings under the Companies Act are submitted to the corporate affairs ministry through the MCA 21 system. As far as the ministry is concerned, Srinivas said MCA 21 is a "fairly reliable database and certainly not a black box. It is a highly transparent platform and one of the best in the world". He also said that what data is representative for GDP calculation and what needs to be used, is a matter that has to be decided by statistical authorities concerned. There were around 15 lakh active companies incorporated on the MCA 21 and the number has come down to 11.5 lakh in the last two years after the names of around 3.5 lakh companies were struck off due to non-filing of statutory returns for two years or more. Noting that the drive against companies that are not making required filings is a continuous process, Srinivas said the ministry initiated Know Your Client (KYC) process for companies about two months ago. "With the KYC process, the details about companies, including the company's registered address and geographical information (latitude and longitude details), directors, KMPs (Key Managerial Persons)... are getting revalidated. Around 5 lakh companies have so far complied with the KYC process," he said. Under the annual KYC process for directors introduced last year, around 17 lakh directors validated their data. However, an equal number of such people failed to do so and their DINs (Director Identification Numbers) have been deactivated by the ministry. According to the corporate affairs secretary, severe restrictions are being imposed on KYC non-compliant companies. "These include barring them from changing their registered address, revising authorised capital, inducting or removing directors and restraining them from carrying out merger and acquisition. Besides, banks are also cautioned that they should be careful in extending credit to non-compliant companies," he noted. On Wednesday, the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation said an official committee would examine the technical report on services sector enterprises. "The recent exercise of the National Sample Survey to bring out a technical report on the services sector was commissioned by the ministry to understand the data gaps and take remedial steps while undertaking the new base revision exercise for the proposed 2017-18 series," the ministry had said in a statement. The ministry had also noted that there is no impact on the existing GDP/GVA estimates for the corporate sector as due care is taken to appropriately adjust the corporate filings at the aggregate level based on the paid-up capital. During the meeting with the 15th Finance Commission on Wednesday, 12 economists also made a case for improving the quality of budgeting New Delhi: Eminent economists have highlighted the need for the consolidation of debt by centre and states, suggesting that the governments look at fresh avenues to garner revenue, like mines auction, along with expenditure reduction. During their meeting with the 15th Finance Commission Wednesday, 12 economists also made a case for improving the quality of budgeting, such that governments should not budget for a low fiscal deficit, knowing fully well that it cannot be achieved. Since the terms of reference of the 15th Finance Commission says that the 2011 census on population would be used to determine the allocation of resources to India's states, instead of decades-old practice of taking 1971 census, the economists also suggested instituting an "incentive structure" in devolution taking into account that the proportion of the elderly population is becoming significantly different across states. On the issue of state government debt, the economists said states are at vastly different stages of debt consolidation and reaching the Fiscal Responsibility and Budget Management (FRBM) targets would involve an "extremely difficult adjustment" path for a few states. "However, it is important that the union government and state governments, as a whole, to consolidate their debt position. According to some economists, expenditure adjustments alone cannot bring about the required adjustment; fresh revenue-raising efforts should also be made. Proceeds from auctioning of mines could be a potential source of revenue," the economists said during the meeting in Mumbai according to an official statement. The NK Singh panel to review the then FRBM rules had in 2017 recommended a debt-to-GDP ratio of 40 percent for the central government and 20 percent for combined state governments. It also suggested a glide path to bring down a fiscal deficit of 2.5 percent of GDP by 2022-23. "The quality of budgeting needs to improve. Governments should not budget for a low fiscal deficit, knowing fully well that it cannot be achieved. Projections of revenues from GST is tricky, but not impossible if one can work with the available data," the economists said. The government had missed the budgeted fiscal deficit target of 3.3 percent in 2018-19 and revised it to 3.4 percent. Deviating from the path laid down in the FRBM Act, the government has pegged the fiscal deficit for the current financial year at 3.4 percent of GDP, as against the original target of 3.1 percent, largely driven by increased spending to provide income support to small farmers and tax rebates in an election year. There are indications that the fiscal deficit to gross state domestic product (GSDP) ratio of the states taken as a whole is gradually declining after the spike seen in 2015-16 and 2016-17, it added. The economists also highlighted the need to adopt a total view on the borrowing requirements of the public sector as a whole, encompassing off-budget transactions, borrowings of the public sector undertakings and contingent liabilities of both the union and state governments. "This is important from many angles, including debt sustainability, fiscal transparency and proper coordination of fiscal and monetary policies," the statement said. The economists also said that whether the increased tax devolution by the 14th Finance Commission has led to improvements in the social spending of state governments needs to be "carefully examined". "There is possibly a mismatch between the demand and supply of state development loans, which can affect the cost of borrowings of state governments in the next five years. Given the maturity profile of state loans, there can also be repayment pressure on these loans during the period of the 15th Finance Commission," the economists said. The Finance Commission is set up every five years to suggest among other things the method of devolution of central tax revenue between the centre and the states. The 15th Finance Commission, chaired by NK Singh, will make recommendations by October 2019 for five years commencing 1 April, 2020. During the meeting, economists also made suggestions regarding the formula for "horizontal devolution" of central taxes among states and the provision of grant-in-aid to the state governments. "These suggestions related to the weight of income distance in the devolution formula, the need to consider the quality of forests in addition to its quantity and the need to consider and incentivise human development through a system of grants or tax devolution," the economists said. Some also urged that intra-state inequality should be looked into by the commission while suggesting a formula for devolution and urged it to consider reinstating the system of specific-purpose grants to ensure the development of social sectors and other sectors that require hand-holding. "Finance Commission may also consider the need for achieving comparable service delivery standards across the country as its guiding principle," they said. A suggestion was also made for the Finance Commission to consider giving priority to the development of a very robust statistical system in the country in its recommendations. Economists present at the meeting were Rupa Rege Nitsure, Saugata Bhattacharya, Prachi Mishra, Samiran Chakraborty, Pranjul Bhandari, Ashu Suyash, Anjan Deb Bose, Naresh Takkar, Soumya Kanti Ghosh, Ajit Ranade, Prof. Ashima Goyal and SL Shetty. By David Lawder, Jeff Mason and Michael Martina WASHINGTON/BEIJING (Reuters) - The diplomatic cable from Beijing arrived in Washington late on Friday night, with systematic edits to a nearly 150-page draft trade agreement that would blow up months of negotiations between the world's two largest economies, according to three U.S. government sources and three private sector sources briefed on the talks By David Lawder, Jeff Mason and Michael Martina WASHINGTON/BEIJING (Reuters) - The diplomatic cable from Beijing arrived in Washington late on Friday night, with systematic edits to a nearly 150-page draft trade agreement that would blow up months of negotiations between the world's two largest economies, according to three U.S. government sources and three private sector sources briefed on the talks. The document was riddled with reversals by China that undermined core U.S. demands, the sources told Reuters. In each of the seven chapters of the draft trade deal, China had deleted its commitments to change laws to resolve core complaints that caused the United States to launch a trade war: Theft of U.S. intellectual property and trade secrets; forced technology transfers; competition policy; access to financial services; and currency manipulation. U.S. President Donald Trump responded in a tweet on Sunday vowing to raise tariffs on $200 billion worth of Chinese goods from 10 to 25 percent on Friday timed to land in the middle of a scheduled visit by China's Vice Premier Liu He to Washington to continue trade talks. The United States said on Wednesday the higher tariffs would go into effect on Friday, according to a notice posted on the Federal Register. Trump said on Wednesday that China is mistaken if it hopes to negotiate trade later with a Democratic presidential administration. "The reason for the China pullback & attempted renegotiation of the Trade Deal is the sincere HOPE that they will be able to 'negotiate' with Joe Biden or one of the very weak Democrats," Trump tweeted. Trump also said he would be happy to keep tariffs on Chinese imports in place. The stripping of binding legal language from the draft struck directly at the highest priority of U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer - who views changes to Chinese laws as essential to verifying compliance after years of what U.S. officials have called empty reform promises. Lighthizer has pushed hard for an enforcement regime more like those used for punitive economic sanctions such as those imposed on North Korea or Iran than a typical trade deal. "This undermines the core architecture of the deal," said a Washington-based source with knowledge of the talks. 'PROCESS OF NEGOTIATION' Spokespeople for the White House, the U.S. Trade Representative and the U.S. Treasury Department did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang told a briefing on Wednesday that working out disagreements over trade was a "process of negotiation" and that China was not "avoiding problems". Geng referred specific questions on the trade talks to the Commerce Ministry, which did not respond immediately to faxed questions from Reuters. Lighthizer and U.S. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin were taken aback at the extent of the changes in the draft. The two cabinet officials on Monday told reporters that Chinese backtracking had prompted Trump's tariff order but did not provide details on the depth and breadth of the revisions. Liu last week told Lighthizer and Mnuchin that they needed to trust China to fulfill its pledges through administrative and regulatory changes, two of the sources said. Both Mnuchin and Lighthizer considered that unacceptable, given China's history of failing to fulfill reform pledges. One private-sector source briefed on the talks said the last round of negotiations had gone very poorly because "China got greedy." "China reneged on a dozen things, if not more ... The talks were so bad that the real surprise is that it took Trump until Sunday to blow up," the source said. "After 20 years of having their way with the U.S., China still appears to be miscalculating with this administration." FURTHER TALKS THIS WEEK The rapid deterioration of negotiations rattled global stock markets, bonds and commodities this week. Until Sunday, markets had priced in the expectation that officials from the two countries were close to striking a deal. Investors and analysts questioned whether Trump's tweet was a negotiating ploy to wring more concessions from China. The sources told Reuters the extent of the setbacks in the revised text were serious and that Trump's response was not merely a negotiating strategy. On Wednesday morning, U.S. stock market indexes were mostly weaker again, pointing to a third straight day of losses on Wall Street. The S&P 500 has fallen more than 2 percent so far this week. Yields on benchmark U.S. Treasury securities fell to the lowest in more than a month. Chinese negotiators said they couldn't touch the laws, said one of the government sources, calling the changes "major." Changing any law in China requires a unique set of processes that can't be navigated quickly, said a Chinese official familiar with the talks. The official disputed the assertion that China was backtracking on its promises, adding that U.S. demands were becoming more "harsh" and the path to a deal more "narrow" as the negotiations drag on. Liu is set to arrive in Washington on Thursday for two days of talks that just last week were widely seen as pivotal a possible last round before a historic trade deal. Now, U.S. officials have little hope that Liu will come bearing any offer that can get talks back on track, said two of the sources. To avert escalation, some of the sources said, Liu would have to scrap China's proposed text changes and agree to make new laws. China would also have to move further towards the U.S. position on other sticking points, such as demands for curbs on Chinese industrial subsidies and a streamlined approval process for genetically engineered U.S. crops. The U.S. administration said the latest tariff escalation would take effect at 12:01 a.m. Friday (0401 GMT), hiking levees on Chinese products such as internet modems and routers, printed circuit boards, vacuum cleaners and furniture. The Chinese reversal may give China hawks in the Trump administration, including Lighthizer, an opening to take a harder stance. Mnuchin, who has been more open to a deal with improved market access, and at times clashed with Lighthizer, appeared in sync with Lighthizer in describing the changes to reporters on Monday, while still leaving open the possibility new tariffs could be averted with a deal. Trump's tweets left no room for backing down, and Lighthizer made it clear that, despite continuing talks, "come Friday, there will be tariffs in place." (Additional reporting by Chris Prentice and Dan Burns in NEW YORK, and Jing Xu and Ben Blanchard in BEIJING; Editing by Simon Webb, Brian Thevenot and Paul Simao) This story has not been edited by Firstpost staff and is generated by auto-feed. HCL Technologies saw its revenue growing 21.3% to Rs 15,990 crore in the quarter under review from Rs 13,178 crore in the January-March 2018 quarter. New Delhi: Information Technology (IT) services major HCL Technologies Thursday posted a 14.3 percent rise in its consolidated net profit at Rs 2,550 crore for the March 2019 quarter and set an "aspirational" annual revenue target of more than $10-billion (about Rs 70,258 crore) in FY2019-20. The company reported 21.3 percent growth in revenue to Rs 15,990 crore in the January-March quarter compared to Rs 13,178 crore in the January-March 2018 quarter, as per Ind-AS accounting norms. For the full year, net profit rose by 16 percent to Rs 10,120 crore, while revenue grew 19.4 percent to Rs 60,427 crore (about $8.6 billion) from 2017-18. In dollar terms, the net profit rose 5.9 percent to $364.3 million for the March 2019 quarter, while revenue was higher by 11.8 percent to $2.2 billion as compared to the year-ago period as per the US Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP). The revenue for the full fiscal was up 10.1 percent. HCL Technologies President and CEO C Vijayakumar termed the company's performance as "blockbuster" and said the revenue growth of 11.8 percent in constant currency terms was higher than its guided range of 9.5-11.5 percent for FY2018-19. The Noida-based company has forecast its revenue to grow between 14-16 percent on constant currency basis this fiscal. This translates into a topline in the range of about $9.83-10.01 billion. Speaking to reporters, Vijayakumar said the aspiration is to cross the $10-billion revenue mark during the ongoing fiscal. He explained that of the guided range of 14-16 percent revenue growth, about 7-9 per cent would be organic and the remaining would come from acquisitions made last year, including its $1.8 billion deal for IBM products. Vijayakumar said HCL continued its strong deal win momentum in the March 2019 quarter, signing 17 transformational deals and a total of 78 transformational deals in FY2018-19. "I believe FY'20 will be a good year for us. It is going to be a good year for the industry as well. The demand for technology services and products is definitely very high. It's very clear that every industry is getting re-imagined with a lot of tech solutions to deliver or re-imagine their businesses. So that is going to create a tailwind for the technology services as we go into FY'20," he added. HCL Technologies' larger rivalsTata Consultancy Services (TCS) and Infosyshave also posted strong growth in the March quarter and exuded confidence keeping the momentum going in the current fiscal as well. For FY2018-19, TCS' revenue was at $20.9 billion, while that of Infosys was at $11.7 billion. Wipro's revenues from IT services segment were at $8.12 billion. Vijayakumar said the company would continue to scout for acquisitions in technology areas like digital services, cloud, Internet of Things and cybersecurity. Its Mode 2 and Mode 3 services - which includes digital and IP-led businesses - accounted for 28.3 percent of the revenue. He added that Mode 2 and Mode 3 services contribution to revenues is expected to touch 35 percent by the end of 2019-20. HCL Technologies board has declared an interim dividend of Rs 2 per share for 2018-19. The company added 14,249 people (gross) during the quarter to take its total head count to 1,37,965 at the end of the March 2019 quarter. Attrition in the IT services business on the past 12-month basis was 17.7 percent. HCL Technologies, which follows July-June cycle for appraisals, is working out the details and will provide wage hikes that are at par with industry peers, it said. The results were announced after trading hours. Shares of the company closed almost flat at Rs 1,132.10 apiece. Days after Icra downgraded Yes Bank, India Ratings has also lowered the lender's long-term ratings on concerns of some of its loan exposure turning into bad loans New Delhi: Days after Icra downgraded Yes Bank, India Ratings has also lowered the lender's long-term ratings on concerns of some of its loan exposure turning into bad loans. India Ratings has downgraded the bank's long-term rating to 'IND AA-' with a negative outlook, while reaffirming short-term rating, Yes Bank said in a late-evening filing on Wednesday. Last week, Icra downgraded the long-term ratings of the lender. Accordingly, six instruments with a total borrowing of over Rs 33,000 crore were also downgraded. The bank had also reported its maiden loss of over Rs 1,506 crore in the March 2019 quarter, driven by a near 10-fold spike in provisions. According to India Ratings, the downgrade reflects the quick credit migration (to sub-investment grade) in the bank's certain group exposures. "Some of these assets to slip into the non-performing category; the need to provide beyond Rs 2,100 crore of contingent provisions in FY19 and credit cost guidance of 1.25 per cent for FY20 in the event of inadequate or delayed resolution of these assets could keep the operating buffers and capital buffers under further pressure in the 15-20 per cent growth scenario," it said. The negative outlook reflects the downside risks to the agency's estimates of profitability and capital buffers that could emanate from substantial delays in the resolution of certain stressed assets, it said. The rating agency downgraded three instruments, including Rs 11,000 crore Tier-II bonds and additional Tier-I bonds worth Rs 11,100 crore. The rating level factors in the bank's fourth-largest position in the private banking sector and appointment of a new chief executive officer with the stated strategy of focusing on multiple granular income streams and assets and liabilities that could take one-two years to show meaningful traction, it said. The ratings also factor in the bank's significantly lower capital buffers, limited ability to raise substantial equity capital, it is relatively high proportion of bulk funding and asset-liability tenor mismatches compared to larger private sectors peers, it said. By Stephen Nellis SAN FRANCISCO (Reuters) - Intel Corp shares declined 2.5 percent on Wednesday after executives forecast modest profit growth over the next three years, signaling it is likely to lag big rivals as the once-dominant chipmaker catches up in technology. Intel once dominated the most important chip market with more than 90 percent share for the brains of personal computers By Stephen Nellis SAN FRANCISCO (Reuters) - Intel Corp shares declined 2.5 percent on Wednesday after executives forecast modest profit growth over the next three years, signaling it is likely to lag big rivals as the once-dominant chipmaker catches up in technology. Intel once dominated the most important chip market with more than 90 percent share for the brains of personal computers. As PC sales have stagnated, it has expanded into data center processors, memory and networking chips. That positions Intel as a smaller player in a bigger market. The company said on Wednesday it expects to have just 28 percent market share by 2023, or about $85 billion in sales in a $300 billion addressable market for the chips it makes, according to the company's forecast. Chief Executive Officer Bob Swan said on Wednesday the company sees both revenue and earnings per share growing in the "single digit" percentage range over the next three years, with flat PC chip sales offset by "double digit" percentage revenue growth in data center chips. Swan also said operating margins would remain relatively steady at 32 percent, but that gross margins would decline as the company ramps up its 10-nanometer chip-making technology, which makes chips faster by making their features smaller. Intel shares dropped in late trading on Wednesday as executives gave the presentation and closed 2.5 percent lower at $49.24. Kinngai Chan, a Summit Insights Group analyst, said Intel's forecast means it might grow more slowly than other large chipmakers, especially in terms of profit. Intel "is admitting to gross margin pressures in the next 2.5 years and that earnings will only keep pace with topline growth," Chan said. Chan said Intel's peers were likely to report 5 percent revenue growth in coming years, but with profits growing faster than revenue rather than along with it as Intel has forecast. Swan gave the long-term outlook less than two weeks after Intel cut its 2019 sales forecast, citing weak data center sales in China. We let you down. We let ourselves down, Swan said of the quarterly results last month. Swan told investors the primary driver of gross margin pressure was the transition to new chip-making technology. Intel struggled with delays for its 10-nanometer technology, losing its lead in making the smallest chips to rival Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co Ltd (TSMC). Intel plans to launch 10nm chips for high-end PCs later this year, and for servers early next year. Swan said Intel plans to deliver even smaller 7nm chips by 2021. (Reporting by Stephen Nellis in San Francisco and Akanksha Rana in Bengaluru; Editing by Phil Berlowitz and Matthew Lewis) This story has not been edited by Firstpost staff and is generated by auto-feed. CPRL is now wholly owned by McDonald's India Pvt Ltd and its affiliate (McDonald's Global Markets LLC, MGM), following the completion of a settlement reached with Bakshi. New Delhi: US fast food chain McDonald's on Thursday said it has reached an out-of-court settlement with estranged partner Vikram Bakshi, buying out the former partner from their joint venture that operated outlets of the chain in north and east India. Connaught Plaza Restaurants Pvt Ltd (CPRL) is now wholly owned by McDonald's India Pvt Ltd (MIPL) and its affiliate (McDonald's Global Markets LLC, "MGM"), following the completion of a settlement reached with Bakshi, the company said in a statement. As part of the agreement, MGM has acquired 50 percent voting equity shares in CPRL, held by Bakshi and his affiliated entity since inception. CPRL operates McDOnald's outlets in north and east India. The company, however, did not disclose financial details of the settlement. On Monday, the estranged partners McDonald's and Bakshi had told the NCLAT that they are working towards an out-of-court settlement to end their over 5-year-old dispute. In August 2017, McDonald's had terminated franchise agreement for 169 out of its 430 fast food outlets operated by Bakshi-led CPRL in north and east India, alleging breach of contract terms and payment default by the operator. This had created an uncertainty for over 10,000 staff directly and indirectly employed at these outlets. Bakshi was at loggerheads with McDonald's since 2013. Later, he had approached the NCLT after McDonald's removed him from the post of Managing Director (MD) of CPRL in 2013. In July, 2017, the tribunal restored him to his position. It was challenged by McDonald's in the NCLAT. Photo: Winnipeg Police A Winnipeg man has been convicted of murdering an Indigenous woman in what Crown prosecutors have called a crime worse than any horror movie. A jury found Brett Ronald Overby, 32, guilty of second-degree murder Wednesday in the death of 21-year-old Christine Wood. Wood had travelled to Winnipeg from the Oxford House First Nation in northern Manitoba in the summer of 2016. Court heard she met Overby through a dating website. He admitted to killing Wood, but his lawyer was asking for a manslaughter conviction because Overby said he didn't remember what happened and didnt mean to harm her. The Crown pointed to evidence that Wood was stabbed 11 times, her throat was slit and her skull and leg were broken. Blood was all over Overbys basement. "How did Christine Wood die?" Crown lawyer Brent Davidson asked in his closing address Tuesday. "She was slaughtered." Court heard how Wood was staying at a hotel with her parents, who were in the city to support a family member having surgery, the night she disappeared. Her body was found 10 months later in a ditch near a farmer's field just outside of Winnipeg. The trial heard how Wood drank and did drugs while in the city, but the Crown told the jury that she was a young woman from an isolated community who got "swallowed up by the city of Winnipeg." She met Overby through the dating website Plenty of Fish and they decided to go for a few drinks. Overby testified that they decided to go back to his house, where they had more drinks and attempted unsuccessfully to buy cocaine. They had sex on his couch, Overby said, but as the night went on Wood began acting erratically and punched him in the face. He told court that Wood pressured him to have unprotected sex and took a condom off him. Overby said it felt like he was raped. He further testified that he took Wood down to his basement to show her a mouse skeleton. He said Wood then came at him with a knife and he blacked out. He next remembered seeing Wood lying on the floor in a pool of blood, he said. Defence lawyer Sarah Inness told jurors that Wood didn't deserve to die, but her client "snapped" after the woman came at him with the weapon. "(Her) violent and unpredictable behaviour provoked a reaction," she said. A second-degree murder conviction carries a mandatory life sentence. According to COAI Director General Rajan S Mathews, it shows the seriousness of the players to continue to fund their operations adequately New Delhi: The massive fundraising exercise in telecom sector via rights issue underpins the seriousness of promoters and their continued faith in fundamentals and dynamics of the market despite "adverse circumstances" and "structural issues", that need to be urgently fixed, COAI has said. According to COAI Director General Rajan S Mathews, it shows the seriousness of the players to continue to fund their operations adequately. "Companies are facing severe economic turbulence from issues that could have been fixed by the government, viz 30 percent levies and taxes that the government continues to extract from the industry. Plus the debt factor and its overhang," Mathews told PTI. The industry has taken a responsible call to infuse fresh funds in "some very adverse circumstances", he noted. "This, to my mind, is a responsible decision in some very adverse circumstances... responsible decision of promoters putting in money, showcase their faith in future of the industry and their ability to continue to operate...If you look, the last two years should not have given anybody that high level of confidence in wanting to do this," he said. Cellular Operators' Association of India (COAI) hopes that the new government post-election, would set out a clear roadmap to ease the burden of levies on the telecom sector, and issues including cut in licence fee and spectrum charges would be taken up at the earliest. Citing the 'National Digital Communications Policy 2018' which prioritises universal coverage rather than revenue maximisation, Mathews said, "we understand, that the Prime Minister's Office has asked all departments to give 100 day action plan, and I believe that any action plan for the telecom department should clearly indicate this among the critical parameters." The players are showing their commitment to the long-term prospects of the sector, and their concerns around structural issues and licensing regime need to be fixed at the earliest, he said. "This type of rigidity which comes from a control-oriented licensing regime coupled with regulations which have to obviously support that rigidity...it becomes all the more difficult for mobile industry which is heavily focused on growth, technology and changes. I think we need to relook at this, quickly," Mathews added. Over the past few years, India's telecom market had become cut-throat where nearly a dozen players jostled for market share, pummelling the call rates to among the lowest in the world. Competition has only intensified since 2016, when Reliance Jio Infocomm, owned by Mukesh Ambani, stormed into the market and offered lifetime free calls and dirt cheap data. Jio's disruptive offerings forced rivals to slash rates, affecting profit margins. Since its launch, rivals have either merged, resorted to acquisitions or folded up, matching its high-speed 4G offering. Lately, the sector has seen a massive fundraising exercise - Vodafone Idea has concluded over Rs 25,000 crore rights issue, that was oversubscribed nearly 1.08 times. Bharti Airtel, too, is in the midst of a Rs 25,000 crore rights issue, which is slated to close on 17 May. This prediction, by a member of the governments top think-tank, has added to the fears that a prolonged slowdown is likely to grip the economy. India faces a structural slowdown and is heading for a certain middle-income trap, said Rathin Roy, member of Prime Minister Narendra Modis Economic Advisory Council (PMEAC) and Director of National Institute of Public Finance and Policy in an interview with NDTV on Wednesday. This prediction, by a member of the governments top think-tank, has added to the fears that a prolonged slowdown is likely to grip the economy. What exactly the middle income trap Roy is alluding to? In simple words, this is the story of you and me--the middle-income groups in the country--about how much money we used to spend before to purchase goods and services, how much are we paying now and whether this momentum will continue in the future. In a broader sense, it is a scenario where middle-income groups in an economy who have been shouldering the domestic consumption story so far by purchasing cars, automobiles and air-conditioners, etc., gradually stop doing so on account of loss of confidence or fear of income loss. In Roys own words, Since 1991, the economy has been growing not on the basis of exports but on the basis of what the top 100 million of the Indian population wants to consume. Those 100 million or 10 crore Indian consumers who were 'powering' India's growth story", he said, "have started to plateau out. But isnt India still the worlds fastest growing economy? Roy doesnt seemed to be very excited about that achievement unlike many of his colleagues in the government. India is the fastest growing economy in the world. But this is not the fastest growing economy in India's history. India is the fastest growing economy in the world because China is not the fastest growing economy, Roy said. He adds: We are growing at 6.1-6.6 percent. But this consumption slowdown is going to put that under threat. India will grow at 5-6 percent, year-on-year for the next 5-6 years, but a time will come when that will stop." The warning from a PMEAC member should ring a bell to the policymakers at the Centre and of course to the new government that will be voted to power by the end of this month. Roy is spot on about the demand slump. There are strong evidences for that around. 1. Auto sales are slowing down sharply. In April, Maruti Suzuki India (MSI), and Hyundai Motor India reported a decline in domestic sales in April at 18.7 percent and 10.1 percent respectively. Similarly, the cumulative sales of the top six two-wheeler manufacturers declined to nearly 1.58 million units last month, from 1.88 million units during the same period a year ago. The story isnt different for tractor sales also. Remember, these indicate urban, semi-urban and rural demand. 2. FMCG companies are reporting a slowing demand and are largely pessimistic about their near-term prospects. A Kotak Institutional Equities report dated 4 May, talks about a sharp, sudden deterioration in short-term demand narrative. We see a major shift in tone (for the worse) on short-term demand narrative in the management commentaries of the companies that have reported thus far. When generally-measured managements like HUVR (Hindustan Unilever Ltd) uses the term recession in its comments in the post-results presser, it generally isnt a one-quarter blip, the brokerage said. In a separate report, the same brokerage noted that given the sharper-than-expected slowdown in consumer goods, the economy will need fixes firmly focused on structural measures. Now, what lies ahead? According to a Nielsen report, (FMCG) industry is likely to grow at a slower pace at 11-12 percent in 2019, almost 2 percent lower than that in 2018. 3. Nikkei/IHS Markit Services Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI) dropped to 51.0 in April, which is the lowest level since September. The reason for this is the weak output growth and overall weakness in the economy. If one looks at the trend of consumer segments growth, the pattern becomes more visible. Growth in consumer durables and non-durables have fallen sharply from their past high growth days.The following chart is self-explanatory. 4. Retail lending business of banks is another indicator to look at and how it is doing of late. According to RBI data, personal loans increased by 16.4 percent in March 2019 as compared with an increase of 17.8 percent in March 2018. This means that individuals are borrowing less for consumption purposes. Unfortunately, the problem with this economy is that exports have never been a key factor for Indias growth story all these years . It is a mix of government spending and the domestic consumption that have always played the role of growth-drivers, especially since the 90s. Now, government spending is unlikely to pick up at least in the next one year on account of fiscal constraints and burden of populist spending political parties have committed to with regard their voters. If consumption too slows down, as Rathin Roy, rightly warns, it is going to be a double whammy for Indian economy. (Data contributed by Kishor Kadam) Terming it as 'poor fiscal marksmanship', the RBI also went public with its concerns on deviation in revised estimates New Delhi: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on Wednesday warned of the rising risks to fiscal consolidation of the states as their finances are saddled with farm loan waivers, income support schemes and the Uday bonds for their power distribution companies. The remarks were made during a meeting between the members of the 15th Finance Commission and the RBI brass, including governor Shaktikanta Das and the deputy governors, at the central bank headquarters here. In its presentation, the RBI listed out the specific factors that will drive fiscal slippages in the revised estimates of FY19, including "the Uday scheme in the past and farm loan waivers and income support schemes in the FY19 revised estimates." It can be noted that ahead of the general elections, a slew of states and also the Centre had doled out sops to the marginalised sections, including the farmers and the poor. While the BJP-led states have announced sops in the face of rural distress and agitations, three Congress-led ones made it a point to declare such schemes soon after taking over office last December. Terming it as "poor fiscal marksmanship", the RBI also went public with its concerns on deviation in revised estimates, stating that the budget estimates presented during the beginning of FY20 had indicated a lower fiscal deficit. In a statement that comes after a jump in devolution of revenues to states, the RBI stressed the "importance of states has increased" with the shift in composition of government finances, the statement said. It also said the outstanding debt as percentage of GDP has been rising despite moderation in interest payment as percentage of revenue receipts. Other key issues raised by Das, who was a member of the commission before being appointed as the governor last December, included necessity of setting up state finance commissions, public sector borrowings and "continuity of finance commission", the statement said. In a special presentation on issues and challenges faced by states for market borrowings, the RBI discussed ways of increasing orientation of state government borrowing to markets, improving secondary market liquidity, risk asymmetry and increasing the corpus of Consolidated Sinking Fund and Guarantee Redemption Fund. The presentation also spoke on cash management wherein the states need to improve their cash forecasting capabilities, the statement said. The visiting Finance Commission team, led by chairman N K Singh, also had a meeting with senior economists and is likely to meet top bankers on Thursday, after which it is likely to address a press conference. Rooh Afza-maker Hamdard Laboratories India said on Thursday its popular drink is now available in the market after a temporary shortage due to short supply of certain herbal ingredients New Delhi: Rooh Afza-maker Hamdard Laboratories India said on Thursday its popular drink is now available in the market after a temporary shortage due to short supply of certain herbal ingredients. According to the company, supply shortage along with unprecedented demand due to Ramzan month and peak summer season exerted pressure on Rooh Afza's availability. "Rooh Afza is now available in the market and can be bought from major retail stores and grocery outlets across the country," Hamdard Laboratories said. Earlier, some media reports suggested that the reason behind supply shortage could be a rift amongst Rooh Afza founder's family and not a herbal shortage. The company, however, said, "The organisation urges discerning consumers and the trade not to be misled by incorrect information being circulated online and in print about non-availability of Roo Afza". The issues were more highlighted after Hamdard Laboratories Pakistan from across the border offered to supply Rooh Afza to India via Wagah border in Amritsar in view of the shortage here for the ongoing Ramzan period. In 1906, Hakeem Hafiz Abdul Majeed had laid the foundation of Hamdard Dawakhana in one of the bylanes of Old Delhi and in 1907 launched Rooh Afza. Following the partition of the Indian subcontinent in 1947, his elder son stayed in India, while the younger son migrated to Pakistan and started Hamdard in Karachi and had launched Rooh Afza there. The company has filed a bankruptcy application with NCLT Mumbai, which has put a moratorium on any action by creditors against Antrix Diamond Exports till corporate insolvency resolution or approval of resolution plan by the bench. New Delhi: The role of bank officers of 10 public sector banks is under the scanner for allegedly sanctioning loan to Antrix Diamond Exports Private Limited that has turned into non-performing assets (NPAs). The internal investigation report reviewed by Firstpost shows bank officers connivance because pre-sanction appraisal of the company was not carried out, neither was solvency of Antrix Diamond Exports properly monitored. The bank officers also ignored mandatory site visits to verify collateral (securities) and business activities. The lenders with consortium leader, Bank of India, is claiming Rs 479.23 crores from Antrix Diamond Exports that was floated in 1986 and engaged in import of rough diamonds and export of cut and polished diamonds. Other banks that have taken a hit includes Canara Bank, IDBI Bank, Bank of Baroda, Andhra Bank, Allahabad Bank, Central Bank of India, State Bank of Bikaner & Jaipur now merged with State Bank of India, Punjab National Bank and Indian Overseas Bank. The public sector lenders have questioned Antrix Diamond Exports business transactions with foreign entities. The report has raised suspicion over the genuineness of foreign buyers and suppliers of Antrix Diamond. Ownership of premises and business of manufacturing sites was never appraised or inspected in real terms. At overseas centres, sham and associate concerns were informed to be on the same address and without any signboard or indication. Their accommodation bills were discounted and consequently both the companies of same promoters defaulted in payment of bills, the investigation report said. The investigation report further revealed that Antrix Diamond Exports alleged associate firm Anaya Gems Inc had also availed loan of $10 million from Punjab National Bank, Hong Kong branch and an outstanding amount of $9.2 million was classified as NPA on 8 June 2018. Anaya Gems Inc is also enjoying facilities of $25 million from Bank of India, New York branch and $ 5 million from Allahabad Bank, Hong Kong. In order to establish the link between the two firms, the investigation report claimed that credit facilities enjoyed by Anaya Gems Inc are guaranteed by Antrix Diamond Exports Private Limited and facilities availed by Antrix Diamond are guaranteed by Anaya Gems Inc. Interestingly, Allahabad Bank was the first one to raise the red flag way back in 2015. As per the investigation report on 10 September 2015, Allahabad Bank informed that the account had turned NPA in their books and sought recovery action against the firm through Securitisation and Reconstruction of Financial Assets and Enforcement of Securities Interest Act (SARFAESI). Around the same time, Punjab National Bank too was witnessing unusual activities and at least 8 bills amounting to Rs 11.20 crore were due. Central Bank of India declared bills to the tune of Rs 24.75 as overdue including majority from Anaya Gems Inc, and Bank of Baroda claimed 6 bills and 4 PCFC (Pre-shipment Credit in Foreign Currency) worth Rs 16.24 crores as overdue. PCFC is credit provided by a bank to an exporter for financing the purchase, processing, manufacturing or packing of goods prior to shipment, on the basis of letter of credit opened in his favour or in favour of some other person, by an overseas buyer. Ajay Gandhi, Managing Director of Antrix Diamond Exports denied the allegations leveled against the company in the internal investigation report. Gandhi said: Our group (Antrix Diamond) is in the diamond business for more than 60 years. We deny all the allegations ... We have always conducted our business in fair and transparent manner. Gandhi, however, did not respond to the banks allegations of sham companies and link between Antrix Diamond Exports and Anaya Gems Inc. Bank officials has claimed Anaya Gems Inc is part of Antrix, and Gandhi's son is the Chief Executive Officer of the firm in the USA. The company has filed a bankruptcy application with National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) Mumbai, which has put a moratorium on any action by creditors against Antrix Diamond Exports till corporate insolvency resolution or approval of resolution plan by the bench. Ram Ratan Kanoongo of Resolution Professional of Antrix Diamond Exports said powers of board of directors including Ajay Gandhi's, got suspended and Resolution Professional of Antrix Diamond Exports Private Limited is made responsible by NCLT to manage the operation of the company. He, however did not respond to specific allegations made in the investigation report. Kanoongo said: After examining at our end, we have not found any bank investigation report made available to us, since the beginning of CIRP (Corporate Insolvency Resolution Process) from March 2018. During the CIRP, the Committee of Creditors (CoC) has not approved the resolution plan, so the matter is pending at NCLT for liquidation order. The matter is presently subjudice. As far as forensic audit in the entire saga is concerned, the report said: M/S E&Y were appointed as forensic auditors for scrutiny of transactions for suspected diversion. The company was continuously informing the bank about the sluggish market but at the same time it was increasing demand with banks for more finances. Punjab National Bank had submitted that Antrix Diamond Exports was availing fund-based export credit facilities of Rs 41.50 crores including Rs 6.92 crores as standby limit under Expo Gold Card. Lead bank of the consortium, Bank of India has been hit by exposure of Rs 115.78 crore, Allahabad Bank Rs 46.98 crore, Canara bank Rs 42.43 crore and IDBI bank Rs 43.69 crore. It appears from the investigation report that bank officials ignored warning signals in the Antrix Diamond Exports case. For example, questions have been raised about mortgaged properties by State Bank of Bikaner and Jaipur (SBB&J) in an on-site investigation report. The report said property based in Ahmedabad that was pledged as collateral security was found to be occupied by other persons. At the time of our visit, we found that on the first floor shutter was locked and a name plate was displayed duly written that the possession of the property by Nandkishor R Agrawal since 20/11/14. We have asked to the company's official Chetan Shah about this possession but he could not give any reply about the possession of first floor with Agrawal. The 3rd and 4th floor office blocks were found vacant and most of the office doors have written the name of firms which we could not identify. Even Chetan, representative of the company also could not give proper reply in this respect, SBB&J inspection report said. The report further recommended that the lead bank (Bank of India) is requested to get the fresh valuation of all the mortgaged properties done at the earliest. "Lead bank is further requested to please ask the company about the possession of the property of Antrix Arcade, Raspan Part Plot road, final plot No 28, T P Scheme No 102, Nikol, Ahmedabad as during the visit of bank officials for security inspection, it was observed that on 1st floor a name plate was displayed duly written that the possession of property Nandkishor R Agrawal and 3rd and 4th floor offices name of the unknown firms were displayed, SBB&J report added. Expressing serious concerns over spiralling airfares, traders' body CAIT on Thursday wrote to Civil Aviation Minister Suresh Prabhu seeking the introduction of a price control mechanism to cap the upper limit of fares New Delhi: Expressing serious concerns over spiralling airfares, traders' body CAIT on Thursday wrote to Civil Aviation Minister Suresh Prabhu seeking the introduction of a price control mechanism to cap the upper limit of fares. "It has been seen that after the shutdown of Jet Airways, other airline carriers are taking advantage of the demand and raising their prices illogically. Even the budget airlines are more forward in raising the prices," the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) said in a letter to Prabhu. Running into a debt of more than Rs 8,500 crore, Jet Airways has shut down operations temporarily after lenders decided against extending emergency funds for its survival. "We believe the government can recommend the upper limit for fares. This will not only prevent airlines from charging exorbitant fares but will also go a long way in fulfilling the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to make flying affordable for every common citizen and enhance ease of doing business," CAIT Secretary General Praveen Khandelwal said. In December last year, the RBI shortlisted six major IT companies, including TCS, Wipro and IBM India, to set up a wide-based digital PCR The United States has reportedly objected to the Reserve Bank of India's (RBI) decision to set up a wide-based digital Public Credit Registry (PCR) to capture details of all borrowers and wilful defaulters, a media report said. The US administration, according to Mint, said that the non-profit credit information company will be anti-competitive for private credit bureaus (PCBs). The report quoting a government official said the US has complained that the "PCR will limit PCBs access to data and hinder their scope and ability to operate optimally in the country." The PCR is expected to be the single point of mandatory reporting for all material events for each loan. In December last year, the RBI shortlisted six major IT companies, including TCS, Wipro and IBM India, to set up a wide-based digital PCR to capture details of all borrowers and wilful defaulters. The other three shortlisted vendors were: Capgemini Technology Services India, Dun & Bradstreet Information Services India, and Mindtree Ltd. RBI deputy governor Viral Acharya had said that the central bank prefers fundamental changes to smoothen loan flow to micro-businesses through a public credit registry, rather than doling out forbearances. When asked about privacy concerns of such a registry, Acharya had admitted that it was a 'delicate' matter and advocated an access rights design upfront rather than a lot of information being gathered by companies. The deputy governor had said that in most countries which have a public credit registry, there exists a separate legislative framework that focuses on critical aspects including access rights. The proposed PCR will also include data from entities such as SEBI, the Corporate Affairs Ministry, the Goods and Service Tax Network (GSTN) and the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India (IBBI) to enable banks and financial institutions to get a 360-degree profile of the existing, as well as prospective, borrowers on a real-time basis. Earlier, a high-level task force was constituted by the RBI to review the current availability of information on credit, the adequacy of the existing information utilities, and to identify gaps that could be filled by a PCR. Currently, there are multiple granular credit information repositories in India, with each having somewhat distinct objectives and coverage. Within the RBI, CRILC is a borrower level supervisory dataset with a threshold in aggregate exposure of Rs 5 crore. Also, there are four privately owned credit information companies (CICs) operating in India. The RBI has mandated all its regulated entities to submit credit information individually to all four CICs. With agency inputs The destruction of Indias traditional educational system and replacing it with a colonial education system was one of the most effective tactics adopted by the British in the wake of 1857 mutiny. The first war of Independence in 1857 was a completely unique surge of natives against their oppressive colonial rulers in the history of the world over. It was one of the biggest battles against the oppressive, cruel and draconian policies of the British imperialism. It was also for the first time when the all over the country the spirit of uniting against a powerful empire was displayed. What started on 10 May, 1857 cannot be termed merely as a mutiny by few soldiers of the East India Company caused primarily by rumours of animal fat in cartridges. A revolt by a few princely states who were facing the threat of being usurped by East India Company was also part of the uprising against the British. This nationwide uprising was an expression of the widespread feeling of patriotism and the widely shared repulsion towards the ongoing process of colonisation. In the words of Eric Stokes, To India, 1857 bequeathed a more living and enduring presence. As one looks back at the post-1857 period, the British government officially took over the reins from the East India Company and introduced major changes in British policies and in their administrative set-up in India deliberately creating divisions in the society. The first war of Independence proved to be a major source for revival of the modern nationalism. To curb the growth of nationalism, the British Empire decided to introduce the policy of divide and rule. The annexation/expansion policy was done away with and princes were supported and promoted to safeguard British interest against any nationalist upsurge. One of the major impacts of 1857 was that British government sowed the seeds of communalism in India. They started first with the British Indian army by introducing Sikhs into Bengal regiment in order to break the unity of the Bengal army. Further, a divide was created by bifurcating castes in the army into marshal and non-marshal. To counter a very efficient system of education, the British portrayed Brahmins, who were running Gurukuls across the country as oppressors and exploiters. Sir Richard Temple, the then governor of Bombay said that ever since 1818, when the British finally defeated the Peshwa in the third Anglo Maratha war, Brahmins were, inspired with national sentiment and with an ambition bounded only with the Bonds of India itself. Innumerable criminal investigation department reports of that period confirmed the active role played by Brahmins in the national movement. The British also started the practice of 'preferences'. In the name of equality before the law, financial assistance and preferences were given in education and government employment at the local and provincial levels to certain sections based on their caste and community. They ensured that the beneficiaries of these were largely Muslims and Anglo-Indians and further a quota was fixed for them in government services also. In the post-1857 era, the Muslims grudge over the loss of their dominance and their fear of being subjugated by other community especially Hindus made them insecure and vulnerable to the British policy of divide and rule. During the 1850s, Mohammedan Anglo-Oriental College was established at Aligarh. English principals like Archibold, Theodore Beck and Morrison played an important role through this institution in keeping Muslims away from the mainstream and inculcating in them a feeling of separation. This further gained momentum during Lord Lyttons Vice-royalty (1876-80). A deputation of Muslims led by Agha Khan demanded on 1 October, 1896 a separate electorate for the Muslims. On 30 December, 1906 a separate party Muslim League was launched to pursue and safeguard Muslim interests. They demanded that the elections for Muslims in these tiers should be held separately and exclusively by them thus providing an opportunity to Muslim voters to return Muslim representatives according to their choice. The British created fissures within the Hindu society also by creating forward and backward classes. On 2 September, 1897, George Francis Hamilton, the then secretary of state for India, wrote to Viceroy Curzon, I think the real danger to our rule in India, not now but say 50 years hence, is the gradual adoption and extension of Western ideas of agitation and organization. If we could break the educated Hindu into two sections, holding widely different views, we should by such division, strengthen our position against the subtle and continuous attack, which the spread of education must make upon our system of Government. In 1885, the education department proposed to reserve 50 percent of free scholarships for backwards and Muslims. This was the beginning of reservation in education in India. The destruction of Indias traditional educational system and replacing it with a colonial education system was one of the most effective tactics adopted by the British in the wake of 1857 mutiny. In the garb of modern education, what the British actually introduced was explained in the words of Lord Macaulay, To form a class, who may be interpreters between us and millions of whom, we govern, a class of persons, Indian in blood and colour, but English in taste, in opinion, in morals and in intellect. It was mainly to get Indians, Anglicized in terms of both cultural and intellectual attainment. Macaulay dreamt of a class of Indians who would be Indian in blood and colour but "English in tastes, in opinion, in morals and in intellect." The introduction of modern education and the announcement of making knowledge of English as compulsory for government employment paved the way for imperial dominance and created a rift in the Indian society. Through census on caste and communal basis, the British further perpetuated the divide within Hindu society. Around 1909, a certain section of Hindus bracketed under the name of untouchables. Then separate representations were given to the scheduled castes and scheduled tribes. Unfortunately, post-1947 India as a nation failed to do the course correction. On the 162nd anniversary of the first war of Independence, it is time to rethink about a national thought process and start doing the course correction. The author is a PhD in Sociology and Senior Research Fellow with Vichar Vinimay Kendra, a Delhi based think tank. The husband of the victim claimed that he had approached the Thanagazi police station SHO and the SP with his complaint, but he was asked to wait as they were busy with the elections. He alleged that an FIR was lodged only on 2 May. Jaipur/Alwar: Four of the five suspects in the Alwar gang-rape case have been arrested while the city SP has been shunted out and an SHO suspended in the wake of the April 26 incident in which police have been accused of delaying action on the pretext of poll preparations. The husband of the rape survivor claimed that he had approached the Thanagazi police station SHO and the SP with his complaint, but he was asked to wait as they were busy with the elections. He alleged that an FIR was lodged only on 2 May. As the case came into light, Jaipur Inspector General S Segathir said Wednesday four people have been arrested and 14 police teams pressed into service to nab the remaining accused. Those arrested were identified as Indraraj Gurjar, Ashok and Mukesh and Mahesh Gurjar, the officer said, adding that Mukesh had also recorded the crime and uploaded the video on social media. Mahesh Gurjar was arrested on Wednesday night, the police said. On Tuesday night, the Rajasthan government removed Alwar Superintendent of Police Rajiv Pachar and put him under the Awaiting Posting Order status, citing administrative reasons. SHO of the Thanagazi police station Sardar Singh was also suspended and four policemen were taken off active duty. The state government has released an interim relief of Rs 4.12 lakh for the survivor as per the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989. Meanwhile, locals took out a protest march in Thanagazi town demanding arrest of all the accused. Protests were also held in Dausa, Jaipur and Churu demanding death penalty for the culprits. On 26 April, the accused stopped the couple's motorcycle on Thanagaji-Alwar road and beat the husband. They stripped the couple and raped the woman in front of her husband. One of accused also shot a video. The survivor's husband alleged that the police officers did not pay heed to his request for action against the culprits. "The incident occurred on 26 April. This all happened for nearly three hours. Initially we kept quiet, but when the accused called me demanding money for not circulating the video, I went to the SP office and gave him a complaint. "He sent me to the SHO of Thanagaji police station where the SHO received the complaint but the FIR was not lodged," the survivor's husband told PTI. He claimed that the SHO took him to the scene of the crime on the same day and later asked him to go. "Next day, I called the SHO but he said that policemen were busy in election. When I called the SP, he also gave the same response. I was asked to wait till elections are over. The FIR was lodged on May 2," he said. Narrating the ordeal, he said, "One of the accused called me and demanded money on 30 April. He said that the video will be circulated on WhatsApp if I did not give them money. My younger brother told about this to the SP but nothing happened and on May 4, the video was circulated". "We suffered unexplainable nightmare on 26 April. When the video was circulated among locals, our dignity was completely lost and when I told this to the police, their reaction was also disappointing," he said. The survivor has also claimed that he had given the phone numbers of the accused to the police but they delayed taking action. When the matter was highlighted on Tuesday, the Congress government faced severe criticism from opposition BJP and others. Police said Gurjar and Kailash were arrested till Tuesday night and Mukesh was placed under arrest on Wednesday. Meanwhile, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) issued a notice to the state government on Wednesday seeking a report in the matter within six week. Taking cognisance of media reports, the NHRC issued the notice to the chief secretary and the DGP. The Opposition BJP has accused the government of deliberately hiding the case for political reasons during elections, a charge which the ruling Congress has rejected and said that stern action against the accused will be taken. "This is a very serious and shameful incident. The government kept it hidden due to political reasons during elections. The party will be holding a demonstration at all the district headquarters on Thursday," state BJP president Madan Lal Saini said. BJP's Rajya Sabha MP Kirori Lal Meena demanded resignation of the chief minister and also a CBI inquiry into the matter. Deputy Chief Minister Sachin Pilot said that stern action against the culprits will be taken and the matter should not be politicised. Elections were held to 25 Lok Sabha seats in Rajasthan in two rounds on 29 April and 6 May. The husband of the victim in Alwar gang rape case claimed that he had approached the Thanagazi police station SHO and the SP with his complaint, but he was asked to wait as they were busy with the elections. The gangrape of a Dalit woman in Rajasthan's Alwar has snowballed into a major political row in the state with the Bharatiya Janata Party blaming the Congress-led Ashok Gehlot government for negligence. The crime was perpetrated along a deserted stretch of road by five men on 26 April who also recorded videos and started blackmailing the woman, The Times of India reported. A BJP delegation, led by Union Minister Rajyavardhan S Rathore on Thursday, held protest at the collector's office over the incident. "There has been police inaction in the case. After prior appointment, we came to meet Collector, but he is not present at the office," Rathore said. Jaipur: BJP delegation led by Union Min Rajyavardhan S Rathore holds protest at Collector office over Alwar gang-rape incident. Rathore says, "There has been police inaction in the case. After prior appointment, we came to meet Collector but he is not present at the office." pic.twitter.com/t4Eb0xlyYz ANI (@ANI) May 9, 2019 While the Gehlot government promised stern action, BJP alleged that the state government is "suppressing" the matter to stop it from hindering the party's prospects in the ensuing general election. Gehlot, on the other hand, has said, "The state government is committed for women safety. Nearly a dozen police teams have been formed to arrest the accused and one arrest has been made. The victim and her family are given protection." BJP-led protests were held in Jaipur and BJP MLA and ex-minister Narpat Singh Rajvi had also written to Gehlot demanding an SIT probe for speedy justice in the case. The city SP was shunted out and an SHO was suspended as the police was accused of delaying action on the pretext of poll preparations. Four policemen were also taken off active duty. The husband of the victim, however, claimed that he had approached the Thanagazi police station SHO and the SP with his complaint, but he was asked to wait as they were busy with the elections. He alleged that an FIR was lodged only on 2 May. The Rajasthan Police on Thursday arrested the fifth accused, Hansraj Gurjar. Those arrested earlier were identified as Indraraj Gurjar, Ashok, Mukesh and Mahesh Gurjar. On Tuesday night, the Rajasthan government removed Alwar Superintendent of Police Rajiv Pachar and put him under the Awaiting Posting Order status, citing administrative reasons. Rajasthan government released an interim relief of Rs 4.12 lakh for the survivor as per the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989. Meanwhile, locals took out a protest march in Thanagazi town demanding arrest of all the accused. Protests were also held in Dausa, Jaipur and Churu demanding death penalty for the culprits. When the matter was highlighted on Tuesday, the Congress government faced severe criticism from Opposition BJP and others. With inputs from PTI Photo: The Canadian Press Health food and hemp industry groups are calling on Ottawa to change the regulations for CBD to treat the cannabinoid as a natural health product rather than a drug. The Canadian Health Food Association and the Canadian Hemp Trade Alliance say CBD, a non-intoxicating compound which can be derived from cannabis and hemp, should be removed from the prescription drug list. The groups also asked in a joint paper for a regulatory pathway to allow for CBD derived from industrial hemp to be included in natural health products and supplemented foods, with the appropriate therapeutic and wellness claims. Since Canada legalized pot for recreational use in October, CBD is regulated similarly to cannabis products and must be purchased through a legal recreational retailer or, for medical patients, through a licensed producer or seller. Natural health products in Canada, however, must be safe to be used as an over-the-counter product but do not require a prescription to be sold. The groups argue that CBD, or cannabidiol, does not produce a high and there is a growing body of evidence of its potential therapeutic uses. The survivor's family had called Tikaram Jully, Rajasthan governments labour minister and the MLA from Alwar Rural, on the day of the incident. Alwar: Protests have broken out over the recent gangrape of a Dalit woman in Thanagazi on 26 April. Over the last three days, protesters have taken to the street against general apathy and lack of security by local police. Political leaders and their party workers have also joined the protests, demanding quick action and severe punishment for the accused. On 8 May, roads were blocked throughout the day in Thanagazi by protesters. After the demonstration, they moved towards the Alwar-Jaipur road, which also remained blocked throughout the day. Later in the day, a maha-panchayat was organised in the area. Political leaders threatened mass protests if the police failed to take strict action against the accused. Protesters blocked all roads on Thanagazi-Jaipur marg. Despite the heat, they came down in large numbers and chanted slogans against the police administration and government. Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP), the student body of the BJP, organised demonstrations at the Rajasthan University campus in Jaipur, where they burnt effigies of Rajasthan chief minister Ashok Gehlot. Chants of Ashok Gehlot murdabad and fansi do, fansi do (hang them, hang them) by college-going students filled the campus. Suresh Khinchdi, Additional SP of Thanagazi, said five of the six accused have been arrested so far. Indaraj, Mukesh, Ashok, Hansraj and Mahesh are in police custody, while the sixth, Chote Lal, is absconding. Khinchdi has requested locals to avoid circulating the heinous video. Hem Singh Bhadana, a BJP former MLA from Thanagazi Vidhan Sabha constituency who met the survivor and her family on Thursday, is being accused of trying to bribe the family to protect the accused. Effigies of Bhadana were burnt by local residents as a part of the protest. I have not put anyone under any sort of pressure. I believe a CBI inquiry should take place for this case. I am accused under political conspiracy. I am not even aware of the names of the accused, Bhadana said in response to the bribe allegations. S Sengathir, Inspector General (IG), Jaipur Range, said, As many as 14 teams have been formed in various districts of Rajasthan to investigate the case. Action is being taken as and when proof is found, said. He also pointed out that the identity of the survivor should not be revealed. Despite that, photos/videos of various party leaders and members of several social organisations at the survivors residence have been circulated on Facebook and Instagram. This has compromised the survivor and her familys identity on social media. The incident took place on 26 April when the survivor and her husband were travelling on a bike. They were then stopped and stripped by five men who then raped the woman. A case of rape and atrocities under the SC/ST Act was registered by the survivor and her family on 2 May. Congress blamed for delayed action Political blame game is rampant; the Congress government has been accused by the Opposition of suppressing the case which was registered only on 2 May due to the ongoing Lok Sabha elections in the state. According to the survivors family, they had called Tikaram Jully, Rajasthan governments labour minister and the MLA from Alwar Rural, on the day of the incident. But he responded by saying that he was busy with elections. Jully, in his defence, admitted that he did receive a call from the family but told them that he was in an election meeting and would respond after the meeting. He also highlighted police negligence and stated that call logs of all police officers involved in the case are under investigation. Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore, Union minister and BJP candidate from Jaipur Rural Lok Sabha constituency, accused the Congress-led government in the state of not carrying out a stringent police investigation. He was accompanied by several senior BJP leaders like Vasudev Devnani, Ashok Parnami and BJP state president Madan Lal Saini. Kirodi Lal Meena, Rajasthan Rajya Sabha MP from BJP, has demanded a CBI inquiry into the case, calling it embarrassing. The entire police station is to be blamed, he said. The culprits had filmed the crime and when the video went viral on 6 May, it was only then that the police took action and quick response teams were formed to look for the accused. When the family approached the police to file a complaint, the ongoing Lok Sabha elections were cited as the reason for a delay in action by the police. Government action Mamta Bhupesh, minister for women and child development, after meeting the survivor and her family, stated justice for the survivor is a priority and that immediate action was taken by the government by suspending the station house officer. This is not the time to play politics, she said while speaking to the media. On Tuesday, Rajasthan chief minister Ashok Gehlot condemned the incident and told the media that senior police officers in the state have been instructed to take strict action against the accused. The government is fully committed to women's protection and has been directed to give special attention to all police officers, he said. (Authors are freelance writers and a members of 101Reporters.com.) The Supreme Court said it may consider releasing illegal foreigners detained in Assam detention centres' provided they are available whenever required for legal proceedings New Delhi: The Supreme Court Thursday said it may consider releasing illegal foreigners detained in Assam detention centres' provided they are available whenever required for legal proceedings. The top court said it may impose such conditions on the detenues to be released, that they can be traced and made available at the appropriate time before the court or the authorities concerned. It asked the Assam government to work on the modalities of setting up around 1,000 foreigners tribunals for speedy disposal of cases related to illegal immigrants. A bench of Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and Justices Deepak Gupta and Sanjiv Khanna asked advocate Prashant Bhushan, assisting the court as amicus curiae, to inform it by Friday about suitable conditions which could be imposed on the detenues upon their release. Bhushan said that upon their release detenues could be asked to report to police station every month and their guarantors could be asked to ensure their presence when necessary. The bench said that if the guarantors fail to ensure the presence of the detenue then what action could be taken besides forfeiting the bond amount furnished by the guarantors. Bhushan said that they can be sent to jail. The bench then questioned that under what provision they can be sent to jail. "We can't create law by our orders and send them to jail," the bench said and asked Bhushan to apprise it by Friday the appropriate conditions which could be imposed on the detenuees upon release. The bench told Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for Assam government to file an affidavit on the availability of a pool of retired judicial officers, bureaucrats and advocates with certain years of experience, who could function as presiding officers in foreigners tribunal. Mehta informed the court that there are at present 100 foreigners tribunals functioning and consultations are on at the highest level with the Gauhati high court to increase that to 200 to begin with. He said that they were expecting rise in number of cases with claims of citizenship after the Assam NRC is published on 31 July and therefore more foreigners tribunals will be needed. "You have framed the eligibility criteria in such a manner that no person would like to join. An advocate with seven years of experience and eligible for post of district judge, why would he apply for a tenure post," the bench said. The Bombay HC's reasoning behind staying criminal proceedings against a man accused of raping minor wife in a recent case fails to justify why someone facing allegations of grave sexual offences like rape should be allowed to negotiate his way out of the crime The Bombay High Court, exercising its inherent powers under Section 482 of the Criminal Procedure Code and Articles 226 and 227 of the Constitution of India, recently stayed criminal proceedings against a man accused of committing rape and sexual offences on his minor wife. The accused was charged under the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act for raping the victim, whom he had married when she was 14. Interestingly, the court relied on an affidavit presented by the victim highlighting her consent to quash the FIR owing to "settlement" between her family and the accused. She also stated on record that she was willing to continue her marriage with the accused. The court found this "consent", coupled with the accuseds promise to provide land and education to the victim, satisfactory to stay the ongoing criminal proceedings. This, in its opinion, would best lead to the "welfare" of the victim. It would also take care of the probability that "nobody in society would be willing to marry her now". The court ruled that this case cannot be used as precedent due its "peculiar circumstances". The rationale for the said decision provokes umpteen questions in ones mind. Child marriages, in the moral sense, cannot be put into the category of a union as there is a glaring absence of free consent, knowledge and an informed choice. They tip the scales so that the younger spouse, generally the more dependent one, is forced to trust the other. This leads to younger spouses living their marital lives in muted acquiescence, accompanied by a loss of childhood and often, sexual abuse. In the instant case, to emphasise on an amorous conduct towards the victim, the accused reassured the court that she would pursue her education beyond Class 11 and be entitled to land. This explanation, however, fails to justify why someone facing allegations of grave sexual offences like rape should be allowed to negotiate his way out of the crime. It would not be in the best interests of both, the victim and the public at large to accept this defence of character because it discounts the lingering effects of sexual abuse on the mind of the then child bride. Studies have proven that such victims constantly go through feelings of depression, anxiety and withdrawal owing to the realisation of being different. They also face difficulties in school and have trouble adjusting to circumstances which may seem unfamiliar post the psychological trauma they undergo. The Supreme Court in Parbatbhai Aahir versus State of Gujarat recognised these difficulties. It advised high courts not to, as far as possible, allow quashing of FIRs pertaining to offences like dacoity and rape, even if the victims initiated the settlements. Facts and "peculiar circumstances" of a case should not be allowed to undermine public interest, as this creates potential for misuse by the accused, who may induce the woman to settle the dispute. In the instant case, although it may be argued that the victim has consented to cohabit with her rapist as his legally-wedded wife, the gravity of the offences is such that to allow such cohabitation would be antithetical to the public interest. Victims of sexual offences often face this dilemma wherein the fear of not being socially accepted due to being a stigmatised 'rape victim' forces them to undertake settlement. What one can also take away from this case is the need to improve upon rehabilitation of victims of sexual offences. The intrinsic feelings of alienation that these victims go through can only be tackled through a proper system of rehabilitation. Justice isnt served merely when punitive measures are taken against the accused, but is truly served when the victims are able to live a life of dignity and respect, just like any other protected individual in society. It is when one looks past the existing stigmas and positively participates in combating them that the victims are able to overcome the boundaries set by the existing social constructs. Though the proceedings in the instant case have been stayed and not quashed, the underlying premise behind such reasoning is that the future conduct of the husband can override his past conduct of raping a minor. This, in essence, is antithetical to the States duty to safeguard a womans dignity. Downplaying the past conduct of the accused, in anticipation of possible good conduct in the future inevitably disrespects the rights of the rape survivor. Should amicable conduct tomorrow be enough to look past yesterday's wrongs? The authors are second year law students at Maharashtra National Law University, Mumbai The CBI has registered a fresh case against absconding diamantaire Jatin Mehta, Winsome Diamonds and Jewellery and a Jordanian Hathyam Salman Ali Obaidah for allegedly cheating Bank of India to the tune of Rs 82.55 crore, officials said on Thursday New Delhi: The CBI has registered a fresh case against absconding diamantaire Jatin Mehta, Winsome Diamonds and Jewellery and a Jordanian Hathyam Salman Ali Obaidah for allegedly cheating Bank of India to the tune of Rs 82.55 crore, officials said on Thursday. The agency has booked Winsome Diamonds and Jewellery, the then Director of the company Mehta, a Jordanian Hathyam Salman Ali Abu Obeidah, Forever Diamonds and unidentified officials of Bank of India in the case, they said. Mehta continued to be Managing Director of the company till April, 2011 when he stepped down from the post and became non-executive director for strategic and policy decisions of the company, the Bank of India has claimed in its complaint. By the time the alleged fraud surfaced, Mehta had left the country and was believed to be in one of The Caribbean islands, the sources said. The agency has already filed at least six FIRs against him related to alleged bank frauds. It is alleged that Bank of India had sanctioned working capital limit of Rs 96 crore to the company in January 2013. The company had purchased gold from bullion banks abroad -- Bank of Nova Scotia, Standard Bank PLC London and Standard Chartered Bank -- on loan basis against the Standby Letter of Credit (SBLC) issued by Bank of India, the complaint alleged. The gold bought from bullion banks abroad was processed by the company and sent to 13 buyers in the UAE suspected to be in hand in glove with Winsome Diamonds and its directors, it has alleged. "These buyers have willfully defaulted in their payments to Winsome Diamonds and Jewellery and eventually SBLCs were invoked by foreign bullion banks resulting in loss to Bank of India," it alleged. The SBLC is a guarantee issued by a bank assuring other bank that it will make payment in case of default by its client. "The said bullion banks released the gold under separate gold loan agreements entered with the company against SBLC issued by the Indian Banks in favour of the bullion banks. After manufacturing, jewellery was exported to overseas buyers," the bank said in its complaint to the CBI, which is now part of the FIR. The company, after getting payments from overseas buyers, repays gold loan availed from bullion banks and the SBLC automatically reverses on confirmation by bullion banks. In 2013, four SBLCs issued by Bank of India worth over Rs 87.17 crore were invoked by the bullion banks for non-payment of loan by Winsom Diamonds, it said. It is alleged by Bank of India that Jordan national Obaidah was controlling all the 13 UAE based buyer firms through a power of attorney. It is alleged that he cheated Bank of India by diverting the bank's funds, causing wrongful loss of Rs 82.55 crore to the bank. The banks declared account of Winsome Diamonds and Jewellery as a non-performing asset on 30 June, 2013 and declared it fraud on 3 December, 2015. Using funds from the banks, Mehta had made huge investments in real estate or setting up family business in the name of Gemesis in Singapore, it alleged. The company did not do any bullion trade in the year ending 31 March, 2013 and the funds were diverted to Gemesis, an artificial diamond manufacturing company owned by Mehta family, it was alleged. The bank has alleged it was never revealed that Obeidah had power of attorney to control 13 UAE based buyers which came to the knowledge of lender banks only at the time of visit to Dubai by Standard Chartered Bank on 18 April, 2013 and subsequently by five members of core committee of lenders on 23 and 24 May, 2013. Nine new customers of Dubai were introduced to the company at the instance of Obeidah. These customers caused dues of Rs 3,808 crore towards Winsome Diamonds and Jewellery as on 31 March, 2013 and very negligible amount could be recovered by the company, the banks alleged. "The selection of these nine new customers by Jatin Mehta was either deliberate attempt in connivance with Haytham Salman Ali Abu Obaidah or a faulty selection of customers which led to misappropriation and siphoning of funds aggregating Rs 3,808 crore," it said. Today's top stories: Narendra Modi is likely to continue anti-Gandhi tirade at rallies in Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal; the Supreme Court will hear the petition on Rahul Gandhi's alleged British citizenship; Donald Trump's son Donald Junior has been subpoenaed in the light of the Robert Mueller probe; and more. Campaign rhetoric expected to sharpen today as Modi tours Bengal, UP Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to address rallies in West Bengal and Uttar Pradesh, a day after making charged speeches targeting the Gandhi family. In Bengal, he can be expected to direct the vitriol at chief minister and Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee at his public meetings in Bankura (10 am) and Purulia (11.40 am). In Uttar Pradesh, the prime minister is likely to once again barrel into the past of Rajiv Gandhi, at rallies in Azamgarh ( 3.10 pm) , Jaunpur ( 4.45 pm) and finally, Prayagraj (6.40 pm). Congress president Rahul Gandhi is poised to reply to the prime minister's charges at his scheduled rallies at Sirsa in Haryana, Sagar in Madhya Pradesh and Ramlila Maidan in Delhi. The last venue is where Modi accused the Gandhi family of using INS Viraat as a "personal taxi" for 10 days when his family and his in-laws took a vacation, thereby allegedly compromising national security. Like on Wednesday, when their Delhi campaigns nearly coincided, Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra will be at Jaunpur at around the same time as Modi. She will also hold rallies at Uttar Pradesh's Pratapgarh and Sultanpur. Priyanka on Wednesday accused Modi of blaming the Nehru-Gandhi family for his own failures, alleging that he was like a "schoolboy who failed to do his homework" and his excuses are "Pandit Nehru has taken away his answer-sheet and Indira Gandhi has made a paper boat out of that." Meanwhile, Mamata Banerjee and Andhra Pradesh chief minister Chandrababu Naidu (who on Wednesday met Rahul at his residence) are expected to meet in the afternoon, at Bengal's Kharagpur today. SC to hear BJP's plea to debar Rahul from contesting over citizenship The Supreme Court will, on Thursday, hear the petition to keep Rahul Gandhi from contesting polls and becoming a Member of Parliament in the future over having allegedly acquired British citizenship. On 1 May, the home ministry sent Rahul a notice seeking a response to charges that he held British citizenship. The Ministry of Home Affairs sought Rahul's response over a complaint filed by BJP's Subramanian Swamy in 2017. Swamy had originally alleged that Rahul's nationality was registered as British in the annual returns of a firm registered in the United Kingdom. When the allegations had first been made, the Congress had made public the firm's certificate of incorporation, which registered Rahul's nationality as Indian. Swamys complaint was made on the basis of an entry made while filing annual tax returns. It was clarified that the British reference was an inadvertent error. London court denies Nirav bail for the third time A London court on Wednesday rejected the third bail plea filed by fugitive diamond merchant Nirav Modi and listed the matter for hearing on 30 May. In her order, Judge Emma Arbuthnot at Westminster Magistrates' Court said that Modi had access to resources and interference with the witnesses is a concern too. Bail not granted. I find that it's a large fraud and I am concerned about Modis lack of community ties in the UK. He has access to resources and interference with the witnesses is a concern too. Any interference with witnesses will contradict the case, Magistrate Emma said while pronouncing the order. This was a renewed bail application due to change of circumstances and the bail security was doubled. An accused is allowed to file for bail only twice unless there has been a significant change in circumstances. During the course of hearing, Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) appearing for the Indian government urged the court not to grant him bail on the basis of change of circumstances. Trump son Donald Jr subpoenaed by Senate panel United States president Donald Trump's son Donald Jr was subpoenaed Wednesday to testify, by the Senate Intelligence Committee, as part of its probe into Russian election meddling, US media reported. It was the first known legal summons issued to a member of the president's family to force testimony in the ongoing investigation, and comes after Special Counsel Robert Mueller declined to accuse Trump's 2016 campaign of criminal conspiracy to collude with the Russians. Women's T20 Challenge 2019: Supernovas face Velocity in final league encounter Harmanpreet Kaur-led Supernovas face Mithali Raj's Velocity in the third league game of the Women's T20 Challenge 2019 at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur, the match being an evening encounter. Velocity got off to a winning start on Wednesday after defeating Trailblazers by three wickets. A victory for the Supernovas, who earlier lost to Trailblazers in the opening game of the tournament, will see all three teams tied on two points each, with Net Run Rate then deciding the finalists that takes place on 11 May. RBI warns Finance Commission of more fiscal slippages by states The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on Wednesday warned of the rising risks to fiscal consolidation of the states as their finances are saddled with farm loan waivers, income support schemes and the Uday bonds for their power distribution companies. The remarks were made during a meeting between the members of the 15th Finance Commission and the RBI brass, including governor Shaktikanta Das and the deputy governors, at the central bank headquarters here. In its presentation, the RBI listed out the specific factors that will drive fiscal slippages in the revised estimates of FY19, including "the Uday scheme in the past and farm loan waivers and income support schemes in the FY19 revised estimates." It can be noted that ahead of the general elections, a slew of states and also the Centre had doled out sops to the marginalised sections, including the farmers and the poor. iPhone 11R design leaked for the first time There have been many leaked images of this year's iPhones which have hinted at a triple-camera setup in a matrix format. The very first leaked images of the budget iPhone which is being termed currently as the iPhone 11R are now available on the internet. As per Onleaks, an Indian gadget blog called Pricebaba has shared the images of the iPhone 11R and they show the device with a dual-camera setup at the back and an identical front as the iPhone XR along with three colour options. Oscar nominated No Fathers in Kashmir to open 14th Habitat Film Festival The 14th edition of Habitat Film Festival is set to return with another set of the best of Indian cinema, opening with Oscar nominated director Ashvin Kumar's No Fathers in Kashmir. With a selection of 42 films in more than 19 languages including Marathi, Bengali, Malayalam, Hindi, and Santhali, the annual film festival will be held at the India Habitat Centre in New Delhi from 17 May. A public notice will be issued by poll authorities on Saturday a day before the Lok Sabha polls in Delhi to disseminate information to voters about the option of using NOTA if they wish to reject all candidates, the Delhi CEO said New Delhi: A public notice will be issued by poll authorities on Saturday to disseminate information to voters about the option of using NOTA (none of the above) if they wish to reject all candidates, the Delhi CEO said. The NOTA button is located at the end of an Electronic Voting Machine (EVM) panel of a ballot unit, trailing the list of names of all candidates. An EVM consists of at least one ballot unit, a control unit and a VVPAT (voter-verified paper audit trail). Each EVM panel or a ballot unit can accommodate names of a maximum of 15 candidates. So, in case of 15 candidates in a constituency, the 16th button would be of NOTA. In case of more than 15 candidates, another ballot unit is added, and the NOTA appears at the end of the list of candidates on the second panel, and so on. "On 11 May, a day ahead of the election in Delhi, a public notice will appear in newspapers about the option of NOTA available to voters, which can be used by them without violation of the secrecy of their decision," Delhi Chief Electoral Officer Ranbir Singh told PTI. Asked if the notice will appear on social media accounts of the Delhi CEO office, he said, "Yes, we can put it up there as well". The election in Delhi is slated to be held on 12 May on all seven Lok Sabha seats. As many as 164 candidates are in the fray in Delhi, where the polls are largely being seen as a triangular contest among the AAP, BJP and the Congress. In six of the seven constituencies, each polling station would have one control unit, two ballot units, and a VVPAT, while in North West constituency, there would be just a single ballot unit along with a control unit and a VVPAT as there are only 11 candidates for that seat, the CEO had earlier said. The NOTA, symbolised on an EVM by a black cross over a ballot, essentially allows a voter to reject all candidates if he or she does not want to cast vote to any contestant, but the vote is counted in the polling process. Of the over 1.43 crore voters in Delhi, 78,73,022 are male and 64,42,762 female, while 669 belong to the third gender. The number of overseas electors stands at 40 while the count of service voters is 11,005. Delhi-based Kathak dancer Uma Sharma says she is filled with regret to see the path India is treading, and how the political landscape has altered in the last five years Editor's Note: This is the seventh in a 10-part series of interviews with well-known residents of Delhi on issues that they believe define the 2019 Lok Sabha election. Read other articles of the series here *** Even though dancer Raja Reddy never shares the stage with anyone except his wife, Radha, he does make an exception for his longtime associate and colleague Uma Sharma. The two often dance together bringing alive two different dance forms Kuchipudi and Kathak, respectively. Of course, these are informal soirees because if both took to stage as a duo, it would easily be a rare performance. Both bring rhythm to life in their own unique ways so when friends get together informally, they expect Raja and Uma to dance and they often do that to Bollywood music. On her part, Uma has done commendable work in reviving the poetry of Ghalib in addition to dedicating many of her performances to women, Stree being one such. Symbolising women, Stree grabbed the attention because of its powerful content, sufficiently enhanced by Uma's performance. Uma is a person of legacy: she believes in going back to her roots rather than moving on and getting lost in a world which is pursuing much of what she does not easily comprehend. Therefore, when she annually dedicates an evening to the festival of Holi, she does it with flowers reviving its long fogotten aspect of phoolon ki Holi or floral Holi the way it is played for one day in Bridavan during the week long festival. Uma has also taken forward the school, Bharatiya Sangeet Sadan, which her father had founded way back in 1946 even as she revived the old classical dance form of Natwari Nritya or the raslila of Brindavan. An exponent of Kathak, a dance form that propagates devotional poetry dedicated to Lord Krishna as also the court poetry of the 18th and 19th centuries celebrating love, Uma has attempted to connect dance to Ghalib. It was a chance visit to Ghalibs crumbling haveli in the walled city of Delhi in the seventies that broke Umas heart. She then decided to start a movement to revive the legacy of the great Urdu poet and set up the Ghaib Memorial movement. Her efforts bore fruit and helped bring the haveli, initially a dilapidated and crumbling structure, to the centerstage. Ghalib provokes me and I am among the few who has brought his poetry into Kathak and danced to his verse way back in the seventies,she says. However, Uma invokes poet laureate Rabindra Nath Tagore while attempting to recapture her vision of India. The kind of India I want to live is the one described by Rabindranath Tagore, 'Where the mind is without fear and the head is held high'," she says. But she rues the altered political landscape in the past few years. "Since Independence, I have lived in Tagores India, but sadly in the last five years it has altered. It has taken away our freedom and as an artiste. We dont feel that free to express our views. There clearly is an attempt to suppress free voices and interfere with the freedom of intellectuals,she says. Artistes cannot be pressurised into propagating one kind of ideas or a particular viewpoint. They cannot be told what to eat, which religion to follow or whom to marry. These are personal choices and do not call for any interference, particularly from the state. We must learn to differentiate between patriotism and nationalism," she says adding that nationalistic ideas are narrow whereas patriotic ideas are broad and macro and inbuilt in Indias Constitution. Looking at the bigger picture, I regret to see the path we as a country are treading. We are headed in a direction where minorities do not have a role either in building the nation or in their personal lives. They live under a constant fear of vigilantism. This is contrary to Mahatma Gandhis vision of India. It is, therefore, time to stop and ponder: where are we headed? What needs to change and where have we erred? she asks Stressing on the diversity of the country, the Kathak dancer says, "I want my India to be diverse but not one where there are disparities. I would not like to make the rich poor, but I would like to make the poor rich. The government should give incentives to the rich to contribute for the welfare of the underprivileged, design schemes to help the poor and do their bit in contributing to the society. In turn, the governments should encourage and honour philanthropists. Hunger, education and women safety are Umas prime concerns. Hunger is another issue we need to address. We are developing fast, but we are developing on an empty stomach. The farmers are distressed and suicides have become very common. Lal Bahadur Shastris kisan is a non-entity and has lost his place of pride. The farmers need facilities and it is the duty of every government to provide them. The farmers need loans and they should be made available on easy terms and conditions; the screws on the middlemen should be tightened and governments should ensure that the minimum support price that the farmers get should go directly to his bank account. The standard of education should be comparable to the West. Our doctors, engineers and scientists who excel in their profession should be given incentives to stay back and help in nation building. The standard of education should be such that instead of our students going abroad for higher studies, students of other countries should come to India. At present, even in our schools, the standard of education is extremely poor. The teachers are not qualified enough to give even elementary school training. Some schools do not have teachers of good quality and even those who are there are absent most of the time. Good quality teachers are hard to come by. Their pay scales are abysmally poor and as a result good teachers don't want to join the profession. Unless we respect our academicians and pay them adequately, our education system will not improve. A complete overhaul of the education policy is much needed and research facilities in universities need to be upgraded. I often hear students complaining of inadequate facilities in India. Being a woman, I feel safety of women should be top priority of every government. As of now there is only lip-service. Rapists and child molesters should be punished and I would go as far as supporting a death sentence too. A step in the direction of women welfare is too make reservation for women in the Parliament a reality. This would see a spurt in laws for women. And why the Parliament alone? Women should be given reservation in other sectors too. They have excelled wherever they are in the forefront," adds Uma. She sees the government as not responsive to the needs of the artistes. Support is also required for artistes and governments should take it upon themselves to keep our culture and traditions alive. Art and culture are bedrock of any civilisation, particularly for our country which has its cultural roots going back to 5,000 years, and it is incumbent both on the people and governments to push this forward rather than treat it as a step child. Eminent artistes should be given facilities like subsidies travel grant, medical facilities and old age pension schemes. The institutions which are imparting music and dance training should be given salary grant and production grant so that the institutions run smoothly and efficiently. This to my mind is very important," she says. Uma also wants political parties maintain dignity during their discourses. My greatest regret is to see the level political parties have stooped to. Instead of working harmoniously and setting examples of good behaviour, they are busy tarnishing others being abusive and indulging in mud-slinging. Worse still, they are communalising the society and its people. Time has come to put an end to vote bank politics or garnering votes in the name of religion. The mandir-masjid cacophony must end and stakeholders must come to the table now. On their part, all political parties must keep national interest above everything else. To quote Atal Behari Vajpayee, it should be 'Insaniyat jamoriyat se upar. (Humanity above political power), she says. In present scenario, she sees the BJP come a cropper. "The BJP has tried to fulfil its promises, but has failed to come up to peoples expectation in some aspects. The most glaring blunder seems to be demonetisation. It did not achieve the desired result. Similarly, a good decision was taken regarding GST, but it was mired in controversy due to faulty implementation. These are two main aspects where the government failed to meet the aspiration of people. The ruling BJP is a populist party and its agenda is to woo the middle class, and also encourage lumpen elements from the Hindutva acolytes. They are allergic to artistes, intellectuals and scientists who stand on the side of the freedom be it in thought or expression. But there are positives and one cannot undermine the governments efforts in bringing electricity in villages, construction of highways and toilets, the Mudra Yojna for the needy people, health insurance scheme for the poor, crop insurance and financial aid to farmers. But its greatest failure is that it has not been able to instil confidence among the minorities. But this does not mean that the Opposition has done its bit, she says, adding, "The role of the Opposition has been abysmally poor. Instead of offering constructive suggestions they have constantly opposed the government and its policies for the sake of opposing and their one point programme seems to be to malign the prime minister and oust him at any cost. This is negative and does irreparable harm to the country as a whole and pushes back the efforts of any government." Taiwan, an island 110 miles (177 km) off the Chinese mainland, is trying to reduce its reliance on Beijing, which maintains that it does not qualify for formal diplomatic ties with any country. New Delhi: Taiwan will strengthen ties with Indias new government, including more official visits, a top official of the self-ruled island said on Wednesday, despite Chinas continuing efforts to isolate what it considers to be a wayward province. Taiwan, an island 110 miles (177 km) off the Chinese mainland, is trying to reduce its reliance on Beijing, which maintains that it does not qualify for formal diplomatic ties with any country. Beijing does not generally object to other countries maintaining trade and economic ties with Taiwan, however. After Indias general election results on 23 May, the two countries will strengthen trade and cultural ties, Chung Kwang Tien, the representative of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Centre in India, told Reuters on Wednesday. The centre in the Indian capital operates as a de facto embassy, helping Indian and Taiwanese companies to expand business ties and easing discreet dialogue between government officials. Our relations are pretty good. One of our projects (is) to promote visits of high-ranking officials, Tien said in an interview. That policy could further test New Delhis relationship with Beijing, which protested against the 2017 visit of a three-member Taiwan parliamentary delegation to India. India and China had a tense military standoff in 2017 over a contested border region, while Indias large deficit with its northern neighbour has also strained relations. Tien said India ranked among the highest priorities in Taiwans new southbound policy that focuses on strengthening ties in the areas of culture, tourism, education and trade with 18 southeast and south Asian countries. Even without a diplomatic relationship, our substantial relations are very strong, stronger than with some countries with whom we have formal relations, he added. About 100 Taiwan companies in the electronics, artificial intelligence, healthcare and food processing industries will participate in a trading exhibition, the second Taiwan Expo, set to be held in New Delhi next week, he said. Taiwan has opened four trade offices in India in the last few years and two-way trade has risen more than six-fold since 2000 to stand at more than $7 billion in 2018. Investment by Taiwanese companies touched nearly $1.5 billion, mainly in the electronics and other manufacturing sectors. Taiwan has also sought Indias help in its bid to join the World Health Organisation, he said. Taiwan has set up 14 language centres in Indian universities and other educational institutions to promote the Chinese language, training about 6,000 students, and awarding scholarships. Laxminarayan Ramdas refuted Narendra Modi's claim that the late prime minister Rajiv Gandhi had used Indian Naval Ship (INS) Viraat as a 'personal taxi'. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's claims that Rajiv Gandhi used Indian Navy ship as 'personal taxi' for holidaying has opened a can of worms, the latest addition to the day's news cycle being several navy veterans getting embroiled in the ongoing political mudslinging. Soon after former navy chief Admiral Laxminarayan Ramdas joined the debate by choosing to defend the late prime minister, another group of ex-naval officers have backed the Bharatiya Janata Party's claim. Former Navy Commander VK Jaitly (retired) tweeted to state that the Gandhi family had extensively used naval resources during their holidays. "Rajiv and Sonia Gandhi used INS Viraat for travel to celebrate their holidays at Bangaram island. Indian Navy resources were used extensively. I am a witness. I was posted on INS Viraat that time, Jaitly's tweet read. "I was witness to the entire episode. A room was readied in the admirals cabin for the Gandhis. It's true that the Gandhis used INS Viraat to head towards Lakshadweep. Its not a small thing. Vice Admiral Pasricha was our commanding officer. He would know about the foreigners. The warship was anchored off Lakshadweep. Its was not a small fleet. We were told they were coming to ship and that it would sail to Bangaram. One admiral room was readied. The ship went to Kochi to pick them up. They stayed overnight. After that, they left towards Lakshadweep on a chopper. They did stay on a ship. The ship anchored nearby Bangaram. The aircraft carrier never sails alone. Several Naval ships accompanied. Resources were used," Jaitly further added to his tweet while speaking to Republic TV. READ INTERVIEW: I was Captain of INS Viraat in 1987 when Rajiv, Sonia, Rahul went to Lakshadweep, there were no foreigners on board, says Vinod Pasricha Another former navy officer, Lieutenant Commander Harinder Sikka told Times Now, that the Gandhis using naval resources was not appreciated by the naval officers but they were forced to remain quiet. We were helpless because we could not speak or raise objections. They would have booked us for mutiny. Sikka also said that the presence of Sonia, who he dubs a 'foreign national', was what that irked many who were part of the fleet. "Prime Minister in INS Viraat is ok but his wife was a foreign national and sensitive information was at stake. No one, even Navy officers, was not allowed inside but here they were holidaying. I raised the issue before the Commanding Officer and I was asked to shut up. He is the Prime Minister. Even if you use a pin from a Navy ship, it has to be docketed." Sikka told the news channel. "A foreign national was roaming freely in the most-coveted warship. Control rooms were made open for civilians. Navy resources were used for holidaying. It was not right. We were furious but as serving officers, we could do nothing. Now we are speaking out," he added. The two naval officers' remarks come after a former navy chief, Ramdas issued a statement Thursday refuting Modi's claims that Rajiv used INS Viraat as a "personal taxi" for ten days. "I would like to state unequivocally, that this was not the case," Ramdas said in his statement. The former navy chief quoted parts of written responses from retired Vice Admiral Vinod Pasricha (then captain and commanding officer of INS Viraat) and other officials. He also referred to a note from an officer who was then the naval officer in charge of Lakshadweep islands. "Prime Minister and Mrs Gandhi were embarked on board INS Viraat off Trivandrum enroute Lakshadweep. The Prime Minister was at Trivandrum as chief guest for the National Games prize distribution. He was going to Lakshadweep on official duty, to Chair a meeting of IDA ( Islands Development Authority) . This meeting is held alternately in Lakshadweep and in Andamans," he said in the statement. Ramdas in his statement also stressed that "there were no foreigners with" the former prime minister when he was on board INS Viraat. He also pointed out that the "PM is authorised to travel along with his spouse by service aircraft on official duties". The two naval officers who have come out in support of Modi's claim did not elaborate whether Sonia's parents, who were Italian nationals, were present onboard as claimed. They also do not explicitly state whether the trip was an official visit or a holiday. Ramdas' statement came hours after the Congress hit back at Modi for making the allegation against Rajiv. Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera also said that Pasricha has clarified that Rajiv was on an official visit on INS Viraat and not on a vacation. "But facts don't matter to Modi. He doesn't have anything to talk about his own achievements. Rahul Gandhi has been challenging him for last six months now to debate on Rafale deal, demonetisation, unemployment, but Modi does not have the courage to speak," Khera said at a press conference. "Modiji tells us that 30 years ago, Rajiv went for a holiday in INS Viraat. The prime minister is a serial liar. A senior official has exposed his lies today. Retired Vice Admiral Vinod Pasricha appeared on channels some time back and stated that this is a lie and the then PM was on an official visit and not on a holiday," he said. Modi, at a rally in New Delhi on Wednesday, accused the Gandhi family of misusing warship INS Viraat for a holiday when Rajiv Gandhi was at the helm, launching a fresh attack on the late Congress leader days after throwing the "bhrashtachari number 1 (corrupt number 1)" barb at him. "Ever imagined that a premier warship of the Indian armed forces could be used as a taxi for a personal holiday? One dynasty did it," Modi claimed. The navy was made to host the Gandhi family and Rajiv Gandhi's in-laws, and a helicopter was also deployed in their service, Modi claimed, adding that when a family becomes supreme, the country's security is at stake. "INS Viraat was insulted by using it as a personal taxi. This happened when Rajiv and his family was out for a 10-day vacation. INS Viraat was deployed for securing our maritime boundary. But it was diverted to take the Gandhi family which was out for a vacation," Modi had said. Congress leaders, including its president Rahul Gandhi and general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, have hit out at Modi for his barb at their father, who was India's prime minister between 1984 and 1989. With inputs from PTI 10:35 (ist) Students register pass percentage of 71.90% in Class 12 science stream This year, Class 12 students registered a pass percentage of 71.90 percent in the science board exams. In 2018, GSEB had declared the Class 12 science stream results on 10 May and general stream results on 31 May on its official website. The pass percentage in 2018 was 73 percent for science and 55.5 percent for the general stream, which includes arts, commerce and vocational studies. To know more about GSEB HSC Class 12 results, click here Photo: Contributed Kevin Styba-Nelson, an altruistic, all-round and sophisticated role model with a razor-sharp, curiosity-driven intellect, is Rotary Student of the Month for May. Styba-Nelson, a grade 12 student at Princess Margaret Secondary School, is motivated by an insatiable thirst for knowledge coupled with an eager willingness to take on new experiences and the perseverance and self-confidence to acquire new skills in the process. Styba-Nelson has always excelled scholastically, typified by the maximum GPA score of 4.0 this year. He enjoys a diversity of subjects, ranging from Chemistry to Law. His favorites are English First Peoples and Biology, the former for evoking a lasting commitment to furthering our nations Reconstitution process and the latter in revealing the intricate workings of the human body. Maggie teacher Jeff Fitton said, Kevins reflections on the subtleties of classroom material lead to deep cerebral discussions, often becoming a dialogue between him and the teacher with classmates attentively listening in awe. While Styba-Nelsons academic record is stellar, it is his passionate involvement in numerous extracurricular activities that sets him apart. Notably, his hidden interest in the performing arts has been superbly nurtured at Maggie, thanks to its strong training programs in music and drama. Having neither sang nor danced previously, Styba-Nelson joined the schools musical theatre in grade 10 and, much to his surprise, landed a prominent role (Link Larkin) in the musical Hairspray (2017). Since then, he has been cast as co-lead (Cat in the Hat) in Seussical (2018) and mid-lead (Bill Austin) in this years highly acclaimed Mamma Mia production. Drama teacher Lori Grant stated, Although quiet and shy, in grade 10 Kevin took on the challenge of performing onstage with complete confidence, even though this was far beyond his comfort zone. Three leading roles later, he has matured into a gifted and valued stage performer. Thoughtful, kind and considerate, he has been well-schooled at home in the essential life skills for success. This year, Styba-Nelson jumped at the opportunity to write different articles of his choice on high school life and events for the Penticton Western News. These bimonthly articles have been both informative and thought-provoking, often prompting Letters to the Editor. Again, he excitedly faced a new challenge, guest newspaper columnist, and found that he enjoyed freelance writing. To Styba-Nelson, lifes biggest challenge is being conscious of ones self what has shaped me, why I hold the beliefs I do and how my actions are perceived by others. This philosophical introspection reveals a sophisticated young person in search of his own self-worth, individual dignity and civic duty. Maggie Principal Roger Wiebe said, Kevin is an exemplary young man, mature beyond his years, with an outstanding academic record. Moreover, he is passionately committed to making our school a better place through his participation in musical productions and band concerts, yeoman service as MC at various school functions and leadership role in organizing large-scale fundraising events such as this years Milk Run for the Canadian Cancer Society and the upcoming MD Bus Pull for the Canadian Muscular Dystrophy Society. Upon graduation, Styba-Nelson plans to attend MacEwan University to obtain a BA in psychology before pursuing a career in creative writing. This career path will facilitate his palpable passion to explore and share with others his innermost captivating thoughts on complex societal subjects, perhaps taking a page out of celebrated Leonard Cohens playbook. Regardless of where his fertile intellect and unquenchable thirst for new mind-expanding experiences may take him, he is poised to leave an indelible mark along the way. Student of the Month is a Rotary Club of Penticton-Okanagan initiative. The award aims to recognize outstanding students for unique achievement in scholastics, extracurricular activities, community involvement, leadership and service to others. GUJCET 2019 Result | The Gujarat board (GSEB) declared the results for the Common Entrance Test result today on its official website gseb.org. GUJCET 2019 Result | The Gujarat Secondary and Higher Secondary Education Board (GSEB) declared the results for Gujarat Common Entrance Test (GUJCET) 2019 today (9 May). The results are available on the boards official website gseb.org. The board held the GUJCET 2019 entrance exam on 26 April at 34 examination centres across the state. Around 1.34 lakh candidates appeared for GUJCET 2019 for admission to engineering, medical and pharmacy degree colleges in Gujarat. Due to the large number of students checking their scores simultaneously, the official website might become temporarily unresponsive or lag. While the glitch is fixed, students can check their result on alternative websites. Alternative ways to check GUJCET 2019 results: Step 1: Log onto the examresults.net or visit the direct link: examresults.net/gujarat/GUJCET-Results.htm Step 2: Once the login page opens, fill the details mentioned in your admit card. Step 3: Hit submit Step 4: Once your result appears, download it and take a print out of it. The marksheet for the GUJCET 2019 Result will be distributed at the designated centres from 10 am to 4 pm today (9 May). Candidates must note that the marksheets will also be sent to them via post. Almost all the Opposition parties, from the CPM to the Bharatiya Janata Party, allege that the Bengal countryside, especially the border districts, has practically been overrun by illegal immigrants from Bangladesh During the third phase of the Lok Sabha polls on 29 April, a group of villagers attacked a two-storey modest house at Nanur in Birbhum district of West Bengal. A television channel team reached the spot and saved the residents. The attackers said the owner was allowing a young Muslim man to visit regularly. Since its a Hindu area, they were "not going to let the family live there". The stress, obviously, was on the visitor being a Muslim. So much for the much publicised secular character of West Bengal. One may call the attackers Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) supporters, but the reason for their fury is deep-rooted. Almost all the Opposition parties, from the CPM to the Bharatiya Janata Party, alleged that the Bengal countryside, especially the border districts, has practically been overrun by illegal immigrants from Bangladesh. Discussing the situation in rural Bengal, Left leader Mohammad Selim went as far as to say that they had come across "in hordes" during the past decade, bought property by "managing" citizenship documents and settled down on this side of the border. BJP leader Shamik Bhattacharya, who is contesting from Dum Dum constituency in Kolkata, even claimed that illegal immigrants were contesting local elections and controlling the fate of Indians. Sheikh Jamal, an Independent panchayat member a rare species in todays Bengal in the Bongaon border area, claimed that since background checks aren't stringent in the local elections Bangladeshi settlers are becoming rulers in rural areas. The problem of infiltration worsened because of two factors. The first was Sheikh Hasina Wazeds Awami League coming to power in Bangladesh and the second was the Trinamool Congress forming government in West Bengal in 2011. Its not as unplanned as it looks on the surface. Immediately after winning elections, Hasina launched a major campaign both political and military against religious extremists, whom she blames for the assassination of her father, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, and the rest of her family. Pushed to the corner, the easiest and safest haven for cadres of the Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami was West Bengal. The party, previously called the Jamaat-e-Islami Bangladesh, had been part of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party-led coalition government in Bangladesh. The Jammat, which by then graduated to the Islamic State school of thought from the Al-Qaeda camp, had the wherewithal to invest money, manpower and political clout in West Bengal. Interestingly, Wahabism founded by Muhammad ibn Abd al-Wahab in the 18th Century Arabia tagged as the most puritanical and supremacist among the various schools of Islamist thought, was considered impure and apologist by supporters of Al-Qaeda, which propounds a more aggressive and expansionist version of Islam. Gradually, even Al-Qaedas version, which encourages delivering deadly blows to the Great Satan (read: The West), was overtaken by a group of supporters of the Salafi school of thought. The Salafis, now calling themselves the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIS), are even more puritanical and want to go back a thousand years to the era of the first four caliphates. The Bangladesh Jamaat e-Islami now has very close links with the Islamic State. The short-term goal is to establish a base in West Bengal to keep the movement going, while the long-term goal, according to their own literature, is to establish an eastern outpost for the caliphate. But although the Bangladesh authorities are well aware of the Islamic State plan, the West Bengal government under the TMC seems oblivious to it. Not only that, in order to widen its vote base and establish its so-called secular identity, the state government has allegedly removed all the roadblocks for Bangladeshis to cross the border. Although its vehemently denied by TMC minister Jyotipriya Mallik, who virtually runs North 24 Parganas district, Bhattacharya, who was a legislator from the area for five years, said almost free entry with arms and narcotics and exit with cows, medicines and bottles of cough syrup that substitute for alcohol in Bangladesh resulted in large swathes of land in almost all the border districts being overrun and virtually ruled by Bangladeshis. Despite repeated attempts, the government spokespersons refused to comment. State Intelligence Bureau sources said on condition of anonymity that hordes of people from different Islamist groups were still coming in. So much so that one of the border agents, Kumar Gayen, spoke openly of how, a couple of years ago, he offered deals of Rs 1,500 per head: organising everything from border crossing to providing safe shelters for the illegal immigrants' first night in India. There are even hotels and guest houses in border towns like Bongaon cater exclusively to these illegal immigrants, who disperse to different parts of the state before their presence is noticed by locals. The most common strategy of the Jamaat is to send in lone rangers with a small amount of money. The man comes to a border town in India, sets up a small business and settles down. Then he starts looking for a girl from the poorest families in the area. The families never check his background. He eventually starts a family, indoctrinates his wife and in-laws and waits for orders from across the border. Shakil Ahmed, aka Ghazi, who lived and led a dormant module in the border district of Nadias Burbakpur and died in the Khagragarh blasts in Bardhaman district, was one such Jamaat operative. Congress leader Sardar Amjad Ali said lawlessness helped unknown people settle in the area, which local Muslims are forced to ignore. State Intelligence Bureau and National Investigation Agency sources said during the riots in Baduria in North 24 Parganas district in 2017, television channels extensively used the bytes of an Urdu-speaking imam, whom nobody in the area had ever seen. He disappeared just after the riots ended and security agencies were unable to trace him. Large-scale infiltration also occurred in the border districts of Malda and Murshidabad. The result: Riots in Maldas Kaliachak, where the rioters about 1,000 men came from Rajshahi across the border a day before the incident burnt down the local police station and set fire to Border Security Force vehicles. The aim: Dominate the area which is ideal for poppy cultivation. Although the local police are not ready to comment, an Intelligence Bureau official said on condition of anonymity that the state police has been unable to trace the owners of the large tracts of land in Kaliachak purchased illegally from locals after 2009. The Jamaat raises its operating funds from cow smuggling, poppy cultivation and small arms trade. Obviously, since a part of the proceeds changes hands this side of the border, it seems whichever party comes to power in the state in 2021 will have it hands full. The BJP friendly towards Sheikh Hasinas Awami League government seems to have already chalked out its strategy. Implementing the National Register of Citizens can be the first step in a series of measures. But it may not be a bloodless coup: far from it. Jammu and Kashmir political parties have accused Governor Satya Pal Malik administration of being partisan, and planning to set up most of the 52 new educational institutions, announced recently, in areas known to be BJP vote bank Srinagar: The decision of the Jammu and Kashmir government to open 52 new colleges in the state is facing criticism with state political parties accusing the Governor Satya Pal Malik administration of being partisan, and starting instuitions mostly in areas with a sizeable Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) vote bank. In September 2018, the state authorities had announced plan to set up 40 new colleges, however, the decision led to protests in areas which were not covered under the plan. On 1 March, the states highest decision making body, the State Administrative Council (SAC), sanctioned 12 more colleges in order to quell the protests. Once launched, the number of colleges in the state will rise to 149. It is estimated that for the construction of each college, a one-time cost of near Rs 15 crore will be granted while Rs 1 crore will be spent each year to pay for the salaries of 140 teachers and other staff. However, officials said that the government could be starting with lesser money initially and classes would be rolled out in phases. The decision to open the new college, however, has not fared well with the areas which are not covered under the plan with political parties accusing the administration of leaving out areas not represented by BJP MLAs. "The present dispensation of Governor Malik is serving the interests of the BJP," said Chaudhary Qamar Hussain, Peoples Democratic Party leader, and former MLA from Rajouri, Hussain said that while colleges have been opened at tehsil headquarters in the areas which are represented by BJP MLAs, the demand to set up a new college in Manjakote tehsil in Rajouri has not materialised yet. He also said that although there is a requirement for separate college for women in Rajouri, it has not been fulfilled" either. Chaudhary Rashid Azam Inqalabi, Special Secretary, Higher Education Department, however, said that the governments motive behind opening the new colleges was to increase access to education. "We will try and create adequate facilities at the colleges. Initially, we will start the class work for Bachelor of Arts courses, and subsequently, add courses in the science stream, he said. However, local leaders claim that besides being partisan in the announcement of new colleges, the Malik administration has also been changing locations of already approved colleges. Over six months after a college was announced for Chadoora town in central Kashmir district of Budgam, classes have not been started as yet. On the contrary, the town has been protesting against the shifting of the college from the main town to Wathoora area of Budgam district. The college was originally approved for Chadoora town, but it has been shifted to Wathoora. We have asked the government that either the limits of Chadoora Municipality should be extended to include Wathoora in the local body or the college should be set up on a portion of 90 kanal land in Chadoora which has been retrieved from encroachers, said senior congress leader, Farooq Andrabi. He said that they have apprised the government that until the construction work on the college completes, it should run from a building of the horticulture department". Meanwhile, in the Eidgah Assembly constituency, the plan to open a college was announced only after political leaders hit the streets. Former National Conference (NC) MLA of Eidgah Assembly constituency, Mubarak Gul, said that it was only after the protests and following the memorandum that was submitted to the government that a college was approved in the constituency. We have held many sit-ins and even wrote to the Governor as well as the chief secretary that a college should be constructed in Eidgah. Initially, only 40 colleges had been sanctioned, however after our protests the government realised that our demand was genuine. And two new colleges including one for Eidgah were approved, he said. Gul is hopeful that work on the new college will initiate shortly after the laying of the foundation stone. I have been informed that the government is framing a project report to construct the college which will come up on 65 kanals of state land, he said. The government is looking at starting classes in all the colleges before 2021, however, even as new colleges are being opened inadequate infrastructure in existing colleges remain a concern. However, Inquilabi assures that existing institutions will be upgraded as well. We will upgrade the infrastructure of the already existing colleges under the existing scheme for improvement of facilities,he said. The Collegium is of the considered view that at present the following persons are more deserving and suitable in all respects than other Chief Justices and senior puisne Judges of High Courts, for being appointed as Judges of the Supreme Court of India The disagreement between the judiciary and the Centre over judicial appointments resurfaced when the Supreme Court on Wednesday stood its ground and reasserted its 12 April recommendation proposing the names of Justices Aniruddha Bose and AS Bopanna for elevation to the top court. The Centre had sent back the file arguing that the principle of seniority was not applied in picking the two judges and that regional representation should be kept in mind while making appointments to the Supreme Court. However, the collegium overruled the argument stating that even though inter-seniority among judges in high courts and their combined seniority on all-India basis should be given due weightage, merit should be the predominant consideration. "The collegium resolves to reiterate the afore-mentioned recommendation dated 12th April, 2019, especially since nothing adverse regarding competence, conduct or integrity of Mr. Justices (1) Aniruddha Bose, and (2) A.S. Bopanna, has been pointed out," it said. In its 12 April recommendation, too, the court had taken the view that Justice Bose and Justice Bopanna were "more deserving" than other puisne judges. "The collegium is of the considered view that at present the following persons are more deserving and suitable in all respects than other Chief Justices and senior puisne Judges of High Courts, for being appointed as Judges of the Supreme Court of India." In addition to sending back the two names, the collegium also cleared two more names, that of Justice BR Gavai and Justice Surya Kant for appointment to the Supreme Court. If the Centre approves all four names, the apex court will reach its full-sanctioned strength of 31 judges; it is currently functioning with 27 Judges. Justice Gavai is presently a judge of the Bombay High Court and Justice Kant is the incumbent Chief Justice of the Himachal Pradesh High Court, while Bose is the Chief Justice of Jharkhand High Court and Bopanna is the Chief Justice of Gauhati High Court. While Justice Bose, whose parent high court is Calcutta, is at number 12 in all-India seniority of judges, Justice Bopanna, whose parent high court is Karnataka, stands at number 36. As far as the question of regional representation is concerned, the Calcutta High Court is represented in the Supreme Court by Justice Indira Banerjee. Justice SM Mallikarjnagouda and Justice S Abdul Nazeer represent the Karnataka High Court. Last year too, the government had returned Justice Bose's name to the collegium when he was recommended to head the Delhi High Court. Before this, a similar logjam was seen when the Centre sat on the name of Justice KM Joseph for months before sending it back to the collegium citing seniority and regional representation. However, the Supreme Court sent the recommendation back and Joseph was ultimately appointed to the Supreme Court, but not without losing precious months of his tenure as the process consumed close to a year. The collegium includes Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi, Justice SA Bobde, Justice NV Ramana, Justice Arun Mishra and Justice RF Nariman. Over 300 vulnerable sea turtle nests have been found by researchers & the forest department in the Andamans. Researchers and the Andaman and Nicobar Forest Department have recorded the maximum number of turtle nests for a single season in the Little Andaman Islands this year. With 302 nests identified, this is the highest number recorded since turtle egg-monitoring began in the islands in 2010. Nesting season for the leatherback turtle in the islands begins in December and goes on till March every year. "This indicates that leatherback nesting on beaches of the Little Andaman Island has recovered substantially after the 2004 tsunami. It now seems stable with some fluctuations," says Adhith Swaminathan, senior research assistant, Dakshin Foundation, who has been working on the islands since the monitoring project began in 2010. An average of 1,000 leatherback nests is found across the Andaman and Nicobar islands over the years, making this a significant nesting population in the South Asian region and the only one in India. The leatherback is the largest sea turtle in the world and is considered a vulnerable species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Muralidharan M, field director, Dakshin foundation said, "Little Nicobar Island and Great Nicobar Island constitutes 94 percent of the total nests found in the Nicobar region. A rapid survey of Little and Great Nicobar Island was carried out to assess if the high nesting observed in Little Andaman extends to the Nicobar region as well." Over 300 leatherback nests found in the nesting beaches of Little Andaman, where an average of about 150 nests are usually found every year. He added, "This is the highest number of nests recorded for turtles since the initiation of our monitoring camp in 2010. Existing literature on sea turtle monitoring programs around the world indicates that these fluctuations in nesting numbers may arise in response to inter-annual variations in breeding behaviour due to climate change." Relatives of modern leatherback turtles have existed in some form since the first true sea turtles evolved over 110 million years ago during the Cretaceous period. They mate at sea and the males never leave the water once they enter it as hatchlings, unlike females, which come back to nest on land. Leatherback turtles are among the deepest-diving marine animals and have been recorded diving to depths of over 1000 metres. They are also the fastest moving reptiles and can swim at speeds of up to 35 km per hour. Major causes for their endangered status include loss of nesting beaches due to developmental plans, sea erosion and plastic pollution of the oceans. Researchers are certain that these turtles mistake plastic for jellyfish. An estimated one-third of all adults of the species have ingested plastic at some point or the other in their lifetimes. Did you know that turtles play an important role in controlling jellyfish populations? Learn how scientists at @CBLOutreach are trying to help the critically #endangered Eastern Pacific leatherback turtle. ( by @NOAAFisheries) https://t.co/26oy9OwDSG pic.twitter.com/tb3bGmeYOH UMCES (@UMCES) April 30, 2019 "Though we have a general understanding on the nesting population in the Andaman and Nicobar region, it is important that a continuous long-term annual monitoring program is carried out to obtain reliable data on leatherbacks at key nesting sites and index beaches such as South and West Bay, Little Andaman," Muralidharan says. "Since Great Nicobar Island receives the highest nesting in the region, we are hoping to extend our long term monitoring efforts to study nesting trends, nest site fidelity, population recruitment and post-nesting migratory routes of the turtles nesting in Nicobar as well." Today, popular narrative spins provision (of water, versus 'management') as being poor-friendly. That must change if we want to make water management resonate with the voters. Our previous column ended with the question: How do we get the economically vulnerable to care about water management?. In this, the concluding piece, lets see if we get to an answer. Warning: Spoilers ahead for fans of Game of Thrones (and for those who aren't, please skip to the end of this paragraph) there is a conversation between Daenerys Targaryen, who has at great personal cost helped rid Westeros of the threat of the Army of the Dead, and Missandei, her advisor. Missandei says that the people of Kings Landing (and Westeros) will be grateful to Daenerys for her action and will support her claim over Cersei, the current occupant of the Iron Throne. Daenerys responds that Cersei will never let the people believe that the Targaryen queen saved them, because, she, like all effective rulers, understands the key role of spin. The importance of spin or "narrative" cannot be overstated in a democracy not just in crafting the message, but also in our echo-chamber world, selecting the appropriate messenger and the medium. Today, popular narrative spins provision (of water, versus 'management') as being poor-friendly. That must change if we want to make water management resonate with the voters. Changing the Narrative: From Provision as Poor-friendly to Provision as Unfair Consider an expensive provision for farmers setting the Minimum Support Prices (MSP). The government allocated more than Rs 1,15,114 crores towards the Department of Food and Public Distribution in 2016-17. This works out as annual subsidy of more than Rs 12,000 per agricultural household. Thats a big-ticket provision which addresses a key voter issue better prices for agricultural produce. But does it really? What many of us dont appreciate is that many (most?) small farmers do not even know what the MSP of their crop is, and if even if they did, its at best a theoretical, out-of-reach concept, as most of the small farmers sell their crop to private traders. In the same vein, the Rs 11,000 crores that Maharashtra allocates annually for electricity subsidies reach a tiny percentage of larger farmers who own borewells they dont benefit small and marginal farmers. To wit, only 18 percent of Maharashtrian farmland is irrigated! So why is this narrative persisting? We will answer that in a bit. Changing the Narrative to Provision cannot last Recently, I was asked if the more economically vulnerable sections of our population understand what climate change is. Its an important question. My answer was that they understand it far better than those of us leading air-conditioned, cocooned lives. But Im less sure that they understand the mechanism that the warming is caused by greenhouse gases generated by development that has passed them by. That the disasters they see around them flooding, unseasonal rain, drought, intense and increasing heat will get worse. Fani highlighted the dangers of too much water and wind; while it will take a while to get the specific attribution of whether or not Fanis power derived from a warmer climate, what is more settled is that a warmer climate makes more powerful storms more likely. Will provision work in such a world? Moving to our cities, today, the informal residents, powerful and local councillors conspire to encroach flood plains and erstwhile water bodies. This made/makes sense for now. But with annual flooding becoming a reality in many Indian cities, will this equilibrium hold? Moving to a key voter issue in Delhi: Air pollution. Subsidising power for farmers in Punjab to grow rice for the rest of us to eat made sense. But when Punjab cancels water-sharing agreements because it does not have enough water to lavish on its rice and wheat crops, does it continue to make sense? When burning the rice straw to speedily make room for the wheat crop results in smogging the capital, does holding to a procurement target and an MSP make sense for paddy grown in Punjab? Suggested read Delhi air pollution: Not bans, solutions must be explored to end practice of stubble burning by farmers The two buckets-worth of water that comes on alternate days could become two lota-fulls every third day as our population rises, and millions pour into cities and we run out of groundwater. In such a world, which we are just at the doorstep of, does the free water of yesterday make sense? Our groundwater running out exposes the limits of the provision-centric-strategy in warming, populous, urban world. Clearly provision cannot last. But how should an alternative narrative Management should be rewarded be spun, so that it will be listened to and believed? Increasing the Timeframe Management-as-a-narrative doesnt stand a shot unless we increase time frame of our audience. One way to do that is to reduce uncertainty in the economically vulnerable sections, by ensuring more regular incomes i.e., an income-guarantee scheme. Please note, this needs to be targeted carefully: towards only the most vulnerable as they are the ones who are bypassed by the subsidy regime. Income transfers must be periodic i.e., not a one-shot bonanza once a year, but a regular weekly or monthly trickle, which matches well with their cash outflows. Lastly, this income scheme must replace subsidies, not be doled out in addition to subsidies. The last thing India needs is a ballooning deficit. But many pundits say the first rule of politics is that what has been given cannot be taken away. Perhaps, just perhaps, by giving something tangible and regular to the poorest, we can facilitate their support for cutting subsidies, especially when they find, in actuality, nothing is leaving their pockets. Surveying political manifestos and recent political actions like the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi, we see that most political parties have jumped on to this somewhat-universal income bandwagon. But will such schemes cut the subsidies (as they ought) or kill fiscal prudence? We can only reflect on past political careers to make that call. But there is no getting away from the fact that a more regular income is a necessity if we want our voters to look forward to increasing the pie rather than just dividing the pie. Making the Story Resonate Timing and make it local A woman from Beed in Maharashtra could not care two hoots about water price in Madurai it would not get her to vote one way or another. But if she were to believe that charging Maharashtrian farmers for electricity would result in her not having to wait and fight for water in summer, she may lean in and say, Tell me more. Water pricing is not ideally placed in national policy (but it was great to see it one political partys manifesto) because water is a state subject, and as such the pricing decision is too. But in a dry city like Chennai, for example, when it is reeling under the heat and most people are paying exorbitant explicit prices for water, pricing water through official channels by displacing private suppliers becomes politically sellable. Speak of the heroism of plumbers who fix leaks, of bureaucrats that repair meters, of school children who adopt a water body. In the summer, in a dry city, you will find a cheering audience. Choosing the Narrator(s) Who should sell this story to the voters? Not the political parties, because as per the 2018 Azim Premji/Lok Niti study, they are the least trusted. Would it be inappropriate for the most trusted the military, the Supreme and High courts to comment on this subject? Hmmm. Who else do Indians trust? Thats a crucial question. A Pew study suggests that Indians are quite trusting of their media organisations. But national media organisations spend a lot of time on national and state elections and spend far lesser time on local issues. Could that change? Until it does, at a local level, the story could be told by local well-respected leaders and the civil society, who are likely to support solid initiatives in their own turf because they too will be impacted regularly by it. The Roadblocks in Moving Local There you have it a good way to address the water crisis is to make it a local (municipal) compelling voting issue. But when moving action (i.e., moving to water management) and narrative to a local scale, we run into two road-blocks: money and talent. Many of us are trained to think of scaling up nationally, internationally. As a result, talent migrates upwards where the money and the glitz reside. Bureaucrats begin their careers at the local level and move up nationally and internationally beckoned by power and glamour. Municipal management becomes hard when talent is scarce and budgets are comparatively tiny. Enter civil society. Civil society can partner with the government to add capacity at the municipal level: to hold an honest mirror to the quality of service; to help design, plan and communicate; to work should-to-shoulder. The only problem is that the power/glamour issue operates powerfully on civil society too many of them are in the nations capital or in larger metros. Could (should) that change? To some extent, that is tied to the donor agenda. Lastly, if municipal governments choose to price water, they can tap private capacity to deliver part of the service. Then, in F1 parlance, its game on! To conclude, water is not a burning voter-issue at least, not today, and not at the national level. To make water, and specifically water management, a voter issue at the local level, we can enhance municipal budgets and power (vive Amendment 74) and enlist civil societies to work with local governments and create a powerful, resonating narrative at a local level of the centrality of water, and its management in our everyday lives. Given that we are in the midst of a national election, is there anything that the national parties can do to improve water resilience? Yes (but this is not a complete list). One is to indicate a shift in priorities like what was done when the Prime Minister stood on the ramparts of the Red Fort and highlighted the importance of toilets. He made speaking of our sewage in public kosher. Thats a big deal. Another is the Swachh Survekshan, which infuses the spirit of competition into waste management and brings forth some transparency in the performance at municipalities. This is an idea that can be easily carted across to water. Third, there is an argument to be made for consolidating all roles into a single ministry/department so that decision making becomes easier. The last, but not the least, is the meaningful management of our forests, whose resilience we neglect at our own peril. The writer is the founder of the Sundaram Climate Institute, cleantech angel investor and author of The Climate Solution India's Climate Crisis and What We Can Do About It published by Hachette. Follow her work on her website; on Twitter; or write to her at cc@climaction.net. The Centre will deploy over 71,000 security personnel to ensure violence-free elections in eight Lok Sabha constituencies of West Bengal on 12 May, Home Ministry officials said on Thursday. New Delhi: The Centre will deploy over 71,000 security personnel to ensure violence-free elections in eight Lok Sabha constituencies of West Bengal on 12 May, Home Ministry officials said on Thursday. Polling will be held in Tamluk, Kanthi, Gathal, Jhargram, Medinipur, Purulia, Bankura and Bishnupur constituencies on Sunday. To avoid improvised explosive devices (IEDs) in the Maoist-affected Jangalmahal area of Bengal, security personnel have been directed not to move in vehicles, they said. The officials said 713 companies or 71,300 security men and women are being deployed for election duties in Bengal for the 12 May polls. There will 602 companies of the Central Armed Police Forces CRPF, BSF, CISF, SSB, ITBP, RPF and RAF and 111 companies of the state armed police. A company has about 100 personnel. The decision has been taken considering incidents of violence in previous polls, incidents on the eve of polling and sensitivity of areas in Maoist-affected zones, the officials said. To instill confidence among voters, various measures like route marches, long range patrols, and cordon and search operations are being conducted in the eight constituencies, they said. The adhoc commandants and company commanders are being briefed by senior officers of the West Bengal sector about the sensitivity of the constituencies, previous incidents of poll-related violence, incidents like attacks on polling parties, candidates, polling agents and security forces, and instances of intimidation of voters. In addition to deployment of forces at all polling stations and mandatory Quick Reaction Teams (QRTs), 547 Quick Action Teams (QATs) headed by company commanders have also been instructed to be on the move, the officials said. The QATs have been told to be in vehicles in their designated area and to ensure immediate action, whenever they receive any complaint from district polling officials, polling magistrates, voters, candidates and control rooms. The heads of the QATs and additional QATs have been briefed to be in touch with each other to ensure prompt and effective action without loosing much time, the officials said. To avoid IEDs, forces deployed in the Janglamahal area have been told not to move in vehicles. They are also briefed to check all culverts probable places of planting IEDs before movement, they said. Forces deployed in the Janglamahal area shall wear bullet proof jackets, helmets and carry adequate ammunition, the officials said. These measures are being taken to ensure free, fair and peaceful polls and also to encourage, motivate people to go to polling station to cast their votes without any fear, they said. The churn also justifies BJPs attempt to turn Indias representative electoral process into a presidential contest centred around one man. Has the Opposition picked up signals that may have eluded pollsters and political analysts? Or is it a case of hedging ones bets? Either way, the churn under way among regional political circles is significant with just two phases and 118 Lok Sabha seats left to go for polls. Ironically, the churn also justifies BJPs attempt to turn Indias representative electoral process into a presidential contest centred around one man. The gauntlet for a post-poll scenario has been picked up by two leaders from the south: Andhra Pradesh chief minister N Chandrababu Naidu and his bete noire K Chandrasekhar Rao, the chief minister of Telangana. Both leaders are working under an assumption that the BJP will not only fail to get simple majority, it may fall far short of the target maybe even under 200 when the possibility of a hung Parliament will come alive and kingmakers will dive into the fray. This is obviously an assumption. The question may arise why Naidu and KCR are already busy meeting and sending feelers to rival political leaders and regional chieftains when the result will be known only on 23 May: notwithstanding exit polls that may point towards a broad trend when casting of ballots for the final phase is completed by 19 May. There are two reasons why these two leaders from the south have already started the heavy lifting. One, in a hung Parliament scenario, they want to have the first-mover advantage by quickly cobbling together a grand post-poll coalition of anti-BJP parties or even a non-Congress, non-BJP federal front formulation. The idea is to put public pressure on President Ram Nath Kovind so that the post-poll coalition gets the first invite from the President for a shot at government formation by proving the numbers on the floor of the House. Normally, in the case of a splintered verdict, the president asks the single largest party to prove its numbers. The Opposition is trying to pre-empt this move and deny BJP the chance to have a go at it. CLICK HERE TO FOLLOW LIVE UPDATES ON LOK SABHA ELECTION 2019 However, any public pressure on the president on this issue is possible only when the Opposition whom Arun Jaitley calls a coalition of rivals is ready to settle their considerable internal differences and put up a semblance of unity through a common minimum programme. This is easier said than done because instead of a mahagathbandhan, we have seen anti-BJP parties fight on their own agendas and platforms and sometimes work in cross purposes against each others core interests. Take the case of Kerala, where Congress president Rahul Gandhi has decided to contest from Wayanad constituency apart from his traditional bastion Amethi, thereby angering the Left Front which has vowed to put up a fight even though the Left remains a member of Congress-led UPA. Or in Uttar Pradesh, where Akhilesh Yadavs SP and Mayawatis BSP sank their quarter century of deep-seated rivalry and joined hands against the BJP, but left Congress out of the equation. The Congress, in turn, turned the Uttar Pradesh battle into a three-cornered contest. The SP-BSP coalition lashed out at the Congress for behaving as a vote katua party and helping BJPs cause and Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra got drawn into a war of words with Mayawati. In West Bengal, the CPM and Congress failed to come at any sort of understanding, leaving the field for BJP to become the ruling Trinamool Congresss chief opposition in the state. In Delhi, the AAP and Congress played out a charade on Twitter about a coalition that never happened, leaving the possibility alive of a three-cornered contest which, again, might benefit the BJP. These realities go against the ambition of the Opposition to present a united front. This is where we come to the second reason why Naidu and KCR have set the ball rolling already. The meetings and sending of feelers are intended to open channels of communication between rival parties so that an eventual movement towards a common ground may become possible. The meetings that are taking place are interesting and tell us something about the ambitions of these two players keen to emerge as kingmakers. Naidu, who has buried his differences with Congress after deserting the NDA last year, met Rahul on Wednesday. According to media reports, both discussed post-election possibilities. The Telugu Desam Party chief then left for West Bengal to share the podium with TMC chief and Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. It is being said that more than 20 Opposition parties may meet on 21 May to firm up a post-poll alliance. Meanwhile, the Left leaders are also meeting senior Congress leader Ahmed Patel to boost chances of a coalition. In parallel talks, however, TRS chief and Telangana CM KCR dashed to Kerala to meet chief minister and CPM leader Pinarayi Vijayan. He reportedly also plans to meet MK Stalin even though the DMK chief appears to be coy about it. KCR, who is trying to cobble up a non-BJP, non-Congress formulation, is reportedly also in touch with Karnataka chief minster and JD(S) leader HD Kumaraswamy. The TRS leader, who seems to be adamant on a federal front, also met six regional parties representing six states before the issue of election notification, as a report in The News Minute pointed out Odisha chief minister Naveen Patnaik, DMK patriarch late M Karunanidhi, Mamata Banerjee, SP and BSP in Uttar Pradesh, YSRCP in Andhra Pradesh and JD(S) leader and former prime minister HD Deve Gowda of Karnataka. What makes KCRs maneuvers interesting is that many of these leaders are perceived to be UPA constituents. The DMK, for instance, have openly proposed the name of Rahul as prime minister, thereby going against the grain of KCRs ambition. The Telangana chief minister has criticised Rahul several times in the past and is perceived to be close to the BJP. It is worth noting that Modi, whose campaign pitch revolves on the axis of anti-dynasty politics, during a recent rally took apart all dynastic regional rulers except KCR, whose son is ready to succeed him in the party. It is possible that KCR is hedging his bets for both scenarios. He may cozy up to the BJP if the latter ends up close to a simple majority and provide issue-based support, or spearhead the movement of a federal front in national politics if the BJP ends far behind the magic number of 272. This presents the picture of rank opportunism among the anti-BJP coalition and feeds the BJPs poll campaign that the mahamilavat gang is busy sniffing a route to power for personal gratification instead of putting the country first. Since two more phases are still left, this may present BJP with another opportunity to hammer home the message. On 14 March, about two dozen persons with disability arrived at the collector's office and enquired how to go about filing the nominations 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 *** Meerut: Come election season, the disgruntled make their grievances known by boycotting polls, However, this has become such a common occurrence that it fails to draw eyeballs. That's why, to draw the authorities' attention to their complaints, the differently-abled in Uttar Pradesh's Meerut came up with a new idea: Filing poll nominations en masse. Meerut went to polls on 11 April, the first phase of voting in the Lok Sabha election. While no persons with disability (PsWDs) contested the election in Meerut, many of them threatened to file nominations. This elicited hectic parleys by the district administration because if there are too many candidates in the fray, each polling booth will require multiple electronic voting machines (EVMs). A single EVM can have the names of only 16 candidates. A similar protest in Karimnagar constituency in Telangana saw over 180 candidates in the fray. On 14 March, about two dozen PswDs attempted to enter the collector's office to enquire about how to file the nominations. Devendra Hoon, convener of the PsWDs' mass nomination drive, claimed that Meerut Police detained them when they were on their way to buy nomination forms. He said they were not allowed to enter the collector's office, adding that the administration was worried about the long list of candidates if all of them submitted their nomination. Meerut SP Dr Akhilesh Kumar explained their detention by citing that the Model Code of Conduct was in place at the time and thus protest marches were not allowed. But when nomination forms became available in Meerut, 14 PsWDs bought them for the first round. Soon, more than 60 forms were sold. Reportedly, PsWDs got a few hundred photocopies of the nomination form and circulated it among themselves to fill them up and submit them. As they tried to submit their nominations, the administration realised it was staring at a logistical nightmare. They, along with the police, organised a meeting with the PswDs and tried to dissuade them from filing nominations en masse. At the meeting, PswDs representatives poured their hearts out, elaborating why they were forced to take this route. CLICK HERE TO FOLLOW LIVE UPDATES ON LOK SABHA ELECTION 2019 They listed out their problems and the administration assured them it would try to resolve them soon. Meerut's superintendent of police, additional district magistrates, city departments, project officer and many other top officers took part in the meeting. Additional district magistrate (administration) Ram Chander said the dispensation was trying its best to address all the grievances of the PsWDs. He said they were advised to field one candidate instead of many if they were keen on contesting the polls to improve their prospects. Though all of them withdrew their nominations, they believe this show of strength was necessary to be heard by a government which often ignores them. Meerut resident Riyasat Ali, a PsWD, said they tried meeting their elected representatives in the past, but without success. He said there have been instances of netas outright ignoring them. Ali claimed PsWDs managed to get an order for the construction of a ramp at a public place, but a political party got the work order cancelled. Nitin Maheshwari, a Meerut resident and a PsWD, said neither any government nor any party heeds them or acknowledges their basic needs. He said be it elected representatives or government officials, nobody is willing to look into their issues. He said his brethren duly cast their votes every election but their needs ramps at public places for wheelchair access, specially designed public toilets, consideration in government jobs are ignored. He said even availing of the handicap pension is akin to running a gauntlet. Adding insult While Meerut administration saved face when the PsWDs withdrew their nomination (ultimately, only 11 candidates contested polls), the differently-abled see no respite. Mohd Gulzar Saifi, who cannot walk, said many drivers and conductors of government buses in Uttar Pradesh don't like him travelling in their vehicles. He alleged that the differently-abled often have to bear humiliation at the hands of conductors, who treat them like second-rate citizens. What makes this worse, he said, is that they have no recourse, nobody to help them out. He rued that they are deprived of fundamental rights that are bestowed upon them by the Constitution. Lalit Saxena, a differently-abled MA final-year student, shared that recently, State-run Chaudhary Charan Singh University advertised job openings, but had no reservation for PsWDs. He wondered how the differently-abled could aspire to get decent jobs when even government bodies aren't setting aside seats for them. A look at manifestos of political parties shows that welfare of the differently-abled is not on everyone's agenda. While the BJP and the Congress manifestos detail the benefits they will introduce/implement for PsWDs, others like Trinamool Congress, Nationalist Congress Party, Aam Aadmi Party and the Communist Party of India (Marxist) flatter to deceive. It doesn't inspire hope among PsWDs. While their PsWDs plan didn't materialise, Maheswhari believes the Election Commission of India should reserve a few seats for them in the Lok Sabha. The author is a Meerut-based freelance writer and a member of 101Reporters PSEB 10th Result 2019 declared: The Punjab School Education Board (PSEB) declared the Punjab board Class 10 result on 8 May. PSEB 10th Result 2019 Declared | The Punjab School Education Board (PSEB) declared the Punjab board Class 10 result on Wednesday, 8 May. While the merit list was announced around noon, the results were made available on the official website pseb.ac.in around 3 pm. Students registered a near 30 percent jump in the pass percentage to 85.8 percent from around 57 percent in 2018. The Class 10 exams conducted by PSEB began from 15 March to 2 April. Students are advised to keep their documents hall ticket/admit card ready for details like their roll numbers to check their results. Follow LIVE updates here How to check PSEB Class 10 exam results: Step 1: Log on to official website of the Punjab School Education Board Step 2: Click on the link saying 'Punjab Class 10 board exam result 2019' Step 3: Enter hall ticket details to log in Step 4: Click on the 'submit' button to view scores Step 5: Take a printout of the result for future reference Students who appeared for the Punjab Board Class 10 exam will be required to collect the original marksheet from their school. They will also be required to provide the original marksheet and passing certificate for applications in other courses. Students can also check any result-related information on the official website or on alternative websites like examsresult.net or indiaresults.in. In 2018, the overall pass percentage of PSEB Class 10 students was at 59.47 percent. Around 3 lakh students sat for the exam in 2018, out of which around 2 lakh students were eligible for the exam. Students will need at least 35 percent of the marks in each subject to pass the exams. Photo: The Canadian Press The defence team for Huawei executive Meng Wanzhou says it plans to argue that she shouldn't be extradited to the United States because she hasn't violated sanctions under Canadian laws and her arrest at Vancouver's airport was unlawful. The defence summarized arguments it plans to pursue during a hearing Wednesday at B.C. Supreme Court where key court dates were to be set for the extradition case, which has not yet begun. Her lawyers allege Meng was the victim of two "abuses of power," first by Canadian arresting authorities and then by U.S. President Donald Trump, and they plan to make an argument based on "double criminality," related to different sanction and fraud laws in the United States and Canada. Scott Fenton, one of Meng's lawyers, said the defence is seeking further disclosure related to the "unlawful detention, search, interrogation and delayed arrest of Ms. Meng." While the Department of Justice has provided the defence with some documentation of the arrest from the RCMP and Canadian Border Services Agency, the defence is seeking audio files and says it needs more time to gather other documents related to case through freedom of information requests. It has already gathered 1,742 heavily redacted pages of evidence through requests from RCMP and CBSA, but continues to gather more. Meng was also subject to "political abuse," in the form of statements made by Trump, Fenton said. Trump has said he'd intervene in the case if it would help secure a trade deal with Beijing. "It's our submission that those statements directly in relation to the Meng case are intimidating and corrosive of the rule of law," Fenton said, adding they should disentitle the U.S. from being able to seek extradition. John Gibb-Carsley, lawyer for the Attorney General of Canada, asked Justice Heather Holmes to allow the case to proceed as quickly as is fair and possible. "My concern is delays now may simply compound over time," he said. The limited scope of an extradition hearing means the Crown's disclosure obligations are different from domestic prosecutions, so it's up to the defence to prove they're entitled to more, he said. While it's not yet time to make arguments in the case, he said the focus on sanctions is a "complete red herring." "This case is about an alleged misrepresentation made by Ms. Meng to a bank that they relied upon, and in so relying, put their economic interests at risk," Gibbs-Carsley said. Benjamin Howes, vice-president of media affairs at Huawei, said outside the courthouse that Meng intends to apply for a stay of the extradition proceedings. "From the beginning, Huawei has expressed extreme confidence in Ms. Meng's innocence. We have maintained that her U.S.-ordered arrest was an unlawful abuse of process one guided by political considerations and tactics, not by the rule of law," he said. The U.S. Department of Justice laid 13 criminal charges, including conspiracy, fraud and obstruction, against Huawei and Meng, who is the daughter of company founder Ren Zhengfei. The indictment accuses Huawei and Meng of misrepresenting their ownership of Skycom, a Hong Kong-based subsidiary, between 2007 and 2017 in an effort to circumvent U.S. sanctions against Iran. The Centre on Thursday told the Supreme Court that a plea for perjury action against unknown public servants for allegedly misleading the court during Rafale case hearing was 'completely misconceived' as media reports and some 'incomplete internal file notings' cannot be the basis for such proceedings. New Delhi: The Centre on Thursday told the Supreme Court that a plea for perjury action against unknown public servants for allegedly misleading the court during Rafale case hearing was "completely misconceived" as media reports and some "incomplete internal file notings" cannot be the basis for such proceedings. In a reply affidavit submitted in the apex court on the application filed by former Union ministers Yashwant Sinha and Arun Shourie and activist lawyer Prashant Bhushan, the Centre said the allegations of making false statements and suppressing facts from the court were "completely false" and "baseless". The government said its submissions in the court were based on records, while the petitioners were relying on "selective leaks" in media from the Ministry of Defence files on opinions expressed by individual officers or a group of officers and this presents an "incomplete picture" on matters relating to national security and defence. "On facts as well, the contention of the petitioners that the officials of the answering respondent (Centre) have made false statements and suppressed evidence while submitting information on 'decision making process', 'offsets' and 'pricing' pursuant to orders passed by this court is completely false, baseless and an attempt to intimidate government servants from performing their duty on this ground alone, the application is liable to be dismissed," it said. A bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi is scheduled to hear on Friday the pleas seeking review of its 14 December, 2018 verdict in the Rafale case along with applications seeking perjury action against unknown government servants and production of certain documents before the court. In December 2018, the apex court had dismissed the plea filed by Sinha, Shourie and Bhushan seeking probe into alleged irregularities in the multi-crore Rafale fighter jet deal. In its reply to the application seeking perjury action, the Centre has said that "in view of dismissal of the main writ petition, the present application which has been filed is not at all maintainable." The Centre said that "all the averments made before the Supreme Court were based on (a) the final decisions taken by the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) and the CCS note which formed the basis of this decision, (b) final decisions by the raksha mantri and Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), (c) provisions in defence procurement procedure and (d) inputs received from the Indian Air Force and other constituent offices of the Ministry of Defence". "There is no act of perjury involved in the submissions made before the Supreme Court as the submissions are based on records," it said, adding, "The information provided to the court is after due approval of the competent authorities based on records, documents and decisions." The affidavit alleged that petitioners were "deliberately providing incomplete and selective information" and altering the sequence of events of procurement process to misled the apex court and the public. "It is submitted that placing reliance on some media reports and some incomplete internal file notings procured unauthorisedly and illegally, the petitioners cannot seek to re-open the whole matter by filing false and frivolous applications and terming it as 'perjury' and attempt to get a fishing and roving inquiry ordered, which this court has specifically declined to go into based on perceptions of individuals," it said. It also said that media reports cannot form the basis for seeking initiation of perjury proceedings since it is well settled that courts do not take decisions on the basis of media reports. The affidavit said that plea seeking perjury action was "completely misconceived and liable to be dismissed". "The contents of the briefs/responses were based on official records/files/inputs from various constituents/affiliated entities within the MoD such as DoMW (Defence Offsets Management Wing), DDP (Department of Defence Production) for offsets, the IAF (Indian Air Force) and the HQ IDS (Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff )which acts as the Secretariat of the DAC (Defence Acquisition Council) and the same were finalised after extensive deliberations at the highest levels in government, after a series of meetings," the affidavit said. It said that the petitioners main contention regarding alleged over-priced deal was not supported by the CAG report. Referring to the records, the affidavit said that Centre has no role in the selection of Indian offset partner which is a commercial decision of the original equipment manufacturer. "The concerns raised by members of the INT (Indian Negotiating Team) were deliberated and addressed while ensuring utmost integrity and transparency in the process, allowing opinions to be freely expressed, recorded, discussed and if necessary modified. Aspects pertaining to the responsibility and obligations of French government, pricing, delivery schedule, maintenance terms, offsets, IGA (intergovernmental agreements) terms etc were discussed and negotiated during these meetings," it said. India signed an agreement with France for the purchase of 36 Rafale fighter aircraft in a fly-away condition as part of the upgrading process of Indian Air Force equipment. The deal is estimated to be about Rs 58,000 crore (about $8 billion). The Rafale fighter is a twin-engine Medium Multi Role Combat Aircraft (MMRCA) manufactured by French aerospace company Dassault Aviation. The Supreme Court on Thursday dismissed petitions of families of those killed along with former prime minister Rajiv Gandhi in 1991 suicide bomber attack, objecting to the Tamil Nadu government's 2014 decision to release the seven convicts in the case. A bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi said, 'All aspects were covered in the earlier constitution bench verdict in the case and therefore nothing survives in the case.' The Supreme Court on Thursday dismissed petitions of families of those killed along with former prime minister Rajiv Gandhi in 1991 suicide bomber attack, objecting to the Tamil Nadu government's 2014 decision to release the seven convicts in the case. A bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi said, "All aspects were covered in the earlier constitution bench verdict in the case and therefore nothing survives in the case". In 2014, the then J Jayalalithaa-led government in Tamil Nadu had decided to release seven convicts in the case. The families had filed a plea seeking directions not to proceed with the government's decision for the premature release of the convicts but since the Constitution Bench had already decided on the issue, the plea was disposed of. "We don't find any merit in your petition," the CJI said dismissing it. Rajiv was assassinated by a suicide bomber in Sriperumbudur in Tamil Nadu on 21 May, 1991. In September 2018, Tamil Nadu governor Banwarilal Purohit had forwarded to the Union home ministry a recommendation of the state government to release the seven convicts sentenced to life imprisonment. The AIADMK government on 9 September, 2018 recommended to the governor to release the convicts, a move hailed by most political parties in the state. Earlier on 10 August, 2018, the Centre had opposed in Supreme Court the proposal of the government to release the convicts, saying that setting them free would set a very wrong precedent. The MDMA, set up in 1998 on the recommendations of Justice MC Jain Commission of Inquiry, had probed the conspiracy aspect of Rajiv's assassination and was headed by a CBI official and comprises officers from IB, RAW and Revenue Intelligence and other agencies. On 21 May, 2018, the MDMA had informed a bench headed by Gogoi that the probe into the case was "still open" and letters rogatory have been issued to different countries, including Sri Lanka, where some persons required to be investigated were currently residing, another official. In its May 1999 order, the top court had upheld the death sentence of four convicts AG Perarivalan, Murugan, Santham and Nalini in the assassination case. In April 2000, the Tamil Nadu governor had commuted the death sentence of Nalini on the basis of the state government's recommendation and an appeal by Sonia Gandhi. Whereas, on 18 February, 2014, the top court commuted the death sentence of Perarivalan to life imprisonment, along with that of two other prisoners Santhan and Murugan on grounds of a delay of 11 years in deciding their mercy pleas by the Centre. With inputs from agencies RBSE 5th Result 2019 declared | The Rajasthan State Education Board (RBSE) announced the results of the Rajasthan boards Class 5 exams today (9 May). RBSE will release the Class 5 results on rajrmsa.nic.in. RBSE 5th Result 2019 declared | The Rajasthan State Education Board (RBSE) announced the results of the Rajasthan boards Class 5 exams today (9 May). RBSE will release the Class 5 results on rajrmsa.nic.in. According to The Times of India, the result will be available in respective Districts Institute of Education & Training as well. Steps to check the results: Step 1: Visit the official website rajrmsa.nic.in. Step 2: Search for the link that says Class 5 exam result or Prathmik Shikha Adhigham Star (5th) Mulyankan Result. Click on it. Step 3: This would take you the exam results page. Submit details like roll number and date of birth, and click on search. Step 4: The result will be displayed on the website. This year, the Class 5 exams were held in the first two weeks of April. As many as 15 lakh students appeared for the Class 5 exams this year. In 2018, the results were declared on 5 May. Moreover, the board is expected to announce the results for the Class 10 and Class 12 exams by 20 May. The board will also release the Class 8 results soon on its official website. Students can check the state's official websites for more details. Two cows were found dead in a park in east Delhi's Trilokpuri on Wednesday, leading to tension in the communally-sensitive area following which police has stepped up security. Police were informed by a dairy owner at 6 am that two of his cows were lying dead in Sanjay Jheel Park opposite Kotla village, said a senior police officer. New Delhi: Two cows were found dead in a park in east Delhi's Trilokpuri on Wednesday, leading to tension in the communally-sensitive area following which police has stepped up security. Police were informed by a dairy owner at 6 am that two of his cows were lying dead in Sanjay Jheel Park opposite Kotla village, said a senior police officer. Due to lack of enough space, the dairy owner would usually leave his cows in the park where they used to graze. However, when the dairy owner visited the park in the morning, he found that two of them were missing, police said. Later, he found the two cows dead in the park following which he informed police, the officer said. When police reached the spot, they found that the two cows had been killed while others were safe. According to the dairy owner's son, "Our neighbour informed us around 5.30 am Wednesday that two cows were lying in the park with severe injuries." "When we reached the spot, we found the two carcasses. We immediately called police and informed them about the incident," he said. The dairy owner's son said his family was in the dairy business for the last 40 years and they had 15 cows. "Nothing like that happened before," he said. The bodies were sent for autopsy to find the cause of death, the officer said. A case has been registered under Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act and relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code against unidentified persons, he said, adding additional security has also been put in place as it is a communally sensitive area. A local said, "We got to know about the incident around 6 am. Police reached the spot on time and swiftly took away the carcasses for post-mortem." There are no CCTV cameras in the area, police said, adding they are using local intelligence. Taking serious note of the killing of two cows in Trilokpuri, Delhi Minorities Commission (DMC) chairman Dr Zafarul-Islam Khan wrote to Delhi Police Commissioner warning him that miscreants may try to use the incident to trigger violence ahead of 12 May polling in the city. The DMC chairman asked the police to ensure peace and tranquillity in the area and arrest the criminals involved in the incident. The report also highlights how virginity tests violate human rights & leads to gender discrimination. An expert panel of the Maharashtra University of Health Sciences (MUHS) has unanimously proposed to remove the contents of "virginity test" from the curriculum of forensic medicine of MBBS course. The paraclinical expert academic board of Nashik-based MUHS took the decision following a plea by Dr Indrajit Khandekar, professor, forensic medicine, Mahatma Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences (MGIMS) Sewagram, who said "virginity test" has no scientific basis. The MUHS had held a meeting on 9 April under the chairmanship of Dr R J Bharma. Board members, including forensic experts Dr Hemant Godbole and Dr Sandip Kadu, were also present at the meeting, where this decision was taken. The board's move came in response to a detailed report submitted to Registrar of MUHS Dr K D Chavan on 26 December 2018 by Khandekar. Khandekar had urged the state government and the MUHS to remove the contents about "virginity test" from the medical curriculum of forensic medicine subject of MBBS course on the ground that it has no scientific basis. Khandekar, in his report, had highlighted the unscientific basis on which virginity is determined by doctors and reasons for its removal from the syllabus. The report had also highlighted how it violates human rights and leads to gender discrimination. Due to the inclusion of signs of virginity in the medical syllabus, almost all the textbooks of forensic medicine of MBBS course includes the details of virginity, its signs and medicolegal aspects, he said. Khandekar said some textbooks also give details about 'false virgin and true virgin'. But no textbook quotes any scientific literature or study to support their statements or information, he said. "Inclusion of 'signs of virginity' in medical curriculum/textbooks has created (and still continuing to create) wrong impression in the minds of doctors, general public, communities that virginity test is scientific and medical one. "Hence, there is a need to highlight the unscientific basis of it in medical books," said Khandekar. He said virginity is a very personal issue and no one has any right to know whether the other person is virgin or not. The Supreme Court on Thursday ordered the Staff Selection Commission (SSC) to release the result of the Combined Graduate Level (CGL) exam conducted in 2017. After a considerable delay, candidates can finally expect the result soon. The Supreme Court on Thursday ordered the Staff Selection Commission (SSC) to release the result of the Combined Graduate Level (CGL) exam conducted in 2017. After a considerable delay, candidates can finally expect the result soon. There were huge protests after the papers of the CGL exams held last year were allegedly leaked. The court had directed a stay order on the SSC results for recruitment exams after the alleged leak. The matter came up before a bench comprising Justice SA Bobde and Justice NV Ramana. Last month, the top court had asked the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to file a detailed status report on the investigation into the case. On 14 March, 2018, the CBI had registered a preliminary inquiry into the alleged irregularities in the test. On 42 February, 2018, the commission had issued a notice saying that due to "technical reasons", the exams held on 21 February would be re-conducted on 9 March. With inputs from ANI There was water treaty between India and Pakistan in 1960 and its basis was peaceful relations, but if the present face of terrorism is not changed, in such circumstances, India wouldn't take much time to take the harsh decision of stopping river water to Pakistan, the BJP leader said. Amritsar: Union Minister Nitin Gadkari on Wednesday warned Pakistan that India will not hesitate to stop the water of rivers flowing to that country if Islamabad does not end its support to terrorism. "The Union government is already making a road map to stop water of rivers flowing from India into Pakistan," he said Gadkari was speaking while campaigning for Amritsar BJP candidate Hardeep Puri. The minister said that the government is planning to build six water dams in Punjab, Haryana, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan and this step would solve the water problem enormously. There was water treaty between India and Pakistan in 1960 and its basis was peaceful relations, but if the present face of terrorism is not changed, in such circumstances, India wouldn't take much time to take the harsh decision of stopping river water to Pakistan, the BJP leader said. He said that the excess water will be given to Punjab and Haryana to address the shortage in agriculture. On river water distribution between Punjab and neighbouring Haryana, he said that the issue has to be sorted out without disturbing the water available to Punjab. Elaborating on the development work undertaken during the BJP-led NDA rule, he said that the Modi government did what was not done in the last five decades. He said that the government was planning to begin double-decker airbus service in six cities, including Amritsar. In order to promote the industry and business units, the government was planning to build Delhi-Amritsar-Katra Expressway which would reduce the journey time by four hours between Amritsar and Delhi. Divya Spandana's attack on Narendra Modi came a day after he accused late prime minister Rajiv Gandhi of using warship INS Viraat as a 'personal taxi' for a family holiday. New Delhi: Congress' social media strategist Divya Spandana on Thursday slammed Prime Minister Narendra Modi for allegedly taking Canadian citizen Akshay Kumar with him on board Indian Navy warship Sumitra. Her attack on Modi came a day after he accused late prime minister Rajiv Gandhi of using warship INS Viraat as a "personal taxi" for a family holiday. "Yeh teek tha? @narendramodi you took a Canadian citizen @akshaykumar with you on-board INS Sumitra," Spandana tweeted with the hashtag 'sabse bada jhoota Modi (biggest liar Modi)'. Setting to rest speculation about his citizenship, actor Akshay Kumar had earlier this month said he holds a Canadian passport. Spandana also tagged a link to an article which raised questions as to why Bollywood was roped in for International Fleet Review at Visakhapatnam in 2016. "Kumar even sailed in the presidential yacht INS Sumitra along with naval chiefs and other VVIPs," the report said. Spandana also asked Bollywood legend Amitabh Bachchan to clear his stand on the INS Viraat issue, citing a report which quoted former Lakshadweep administrator Wajahat Habibullah denying the PM's claim and saying check with Bachchan in case of doubt. She also cited former navy chief Admiral (retd) L Ramdas's rejection of the PM's claim on INS Viraat and asked Modi as well as those who "lied and defamed" him and the army to apologise. "Or is it too much to expect from uncouth people?" she said. Modi, at a rally here on Wednesday, accused the Gandhi family of using warship INS Viraat as its "personal taxi" for a holiday when Rajiv Gandhi was at the helm, launching a fresh attack on the late Congress leader days after throwing the "bhrashtachari no 1" barb at him. "Ever imagined that a premier warship of the Indian armed forces could be used as a taxi for a personal holiday? One dynasty did it," Modi had said. The navy was made to host the Gandhi family and Rajiv Gandhi's in-laws, and a helicopter was also deployed in their service, Modi had claimed, adding that when a family becomes supreme, the country's security is at stake. "INS Viraat was insulted by using it as a personal taxi. This happened when Rajiv Gandhi and his family was out for a 10-day vacation. "INS Viraat was deployed for securing our maritime boundary.But, it was diverted to take the Gandhi family which was out for a vacation," Modi had said. Congress leaders, including its president Rahul Gandhi and general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, have hit out at Modi for his barb at their father, who was India's prime minister between 1984-89. Bikaner was named for Rao Bika a young prince of the Rathore clan, rulers of Jodhpur, who set out to found his own kingdom in the desert and for the Nara or Ner tribals, the original inhabitants of these lands. Editors note: You may have heard the saying the journey is the destination, but some travellers actually put that philosophy into practice. Presenting, #FTravellers on-the-road (or air/sea) dispatches from travel enthusiasts on long journeys. The travellers we're now featuring are Ambika Vishwanath and Hoshner Reporter of The reDiscovery Project. Ambika and Hoshner are doing an in-depth journey through Rajasthan, and will be sharing their travel journals on Firstpost. *** Dispatch 4 Text by Ambika Vishwanath | Photos by Hoshner Reporter Jodh-pur, Jai-pur, Udai-pur, Rajput rulers usually named the cities they founded after themselves suf-fixed by pur which means settlement, our guide Shailendra tells us, yet Bikaner does not follow this formula. Bikaner was named for Rao Bika a young prince of the Rathore clan, rulers of Jodhpur, who set out to found his own kingdom in the desert and for the Nara or Ner tribals, the original inhabitants of these lands. Bikaner is different, says Shailendra with a smile, and we are about to find out, happily, that he is right. We are standing in the entry courtyard of Bikaners Junagadh Fort, and after a month of plenty of forts and palaces in Rajasthan, including the magnificent City Palace at Udaipur, sprawling Chittorghad, and the majestic Mehrangarh fort, we were wondering if this slightly diminutive fort palace would measure up to its more illustrious cousins. Sensing our doubt, Shailendra leads us in with a grin that seems to say, wait for it! Sitting outside the old city, Junagarh is not a hill fort, a significant departure from most of the others in the state. However, surrounded by a large deep moat, the fort was never captured and remained the seat of Bikaners rulers all the way till Ganga Singh acceded to join the Indian union. What Junagarh lacks in scale and grandeur however, it makes up in sheer charm. Built with that special red sandstone that lends Bikaner its moniker of the Red City, the fort glows warmly in the evening sun and Shailendra, who seems to know the Fort like the back of his hand, leads us through its palaces and courtyards, slowly unravelling its allure. We are late and the fort will close soon, but this it seems, is a blessing in disguise. The tourists have left and the guards are closing up, but a quick word and a smile from Shailendra ensure that the rooms magically reopen, and we have a wonderful private viewing of the home of the Bikaners royals. From the Amar Mahal with delicate gold leaf paintings to the Badal Mahal, adorned with lovely blue frescos depicting rain clouds, and the Gaj Mandir with some of the most intricate and beautiful stained glass work we have seen anywhere in India, each room of the palace is a revelation. As if this was not enough, the palace also houses a small museum which hosts an actual World War I plane gifted to Maharaja Ganga Singh for his services in the war. We stare at each other with eyes wide open as we wander the palace wondering, why dont more tourist come here?' How has Bikaner escaped popular imagination for so long? Without being over the top opulent, a rather common trait in the palaces of this state, there was an elegance to each space, carefully thought through and well maintained. We had just been roaming Junaghad for an hour, but it was already amongst our favourite palaces in Rajasthan. The next morning, we set off to explore Bikaners old city and what is probably its crowning glory, the stunning havelis. Bikaners location, along the silk route, was perhaps one of the reasons that Rao Bika decided to set up his empire in this arid region of the Thar and encouraged by incentives from the rulers, a number of traders settled in Bikaner. As business flourished, these traders, eager to showcase their growing clout and prestige, built large, ornate homes for themselves, called havelis, many larger than the palaces of minor kings. We have always had a love for old homes and havelis and whenever we stay in a home that we love, we lament that our respective families never had a charming old ancestral haveli sitting in a village somewhere. Its fair to say that in our four years of travelling India we have seen some stunning homes, grand, charming and full of character, but few would compare to the havelis of Bikaner. Built in the same beautiful red stone that characterises Bikaner and ornately carved, the havelis literally crowd the narrow lanes of Bikaners old town. It is estimated that there were once over a thousand havelis, large and small that lined these streets, but with neglect and lack of upkeep, fewer than half that number survive. The most famous of these and the first ones we see are the Rampuria havelis. A set of seven havelis, built by three brothers of the Rampuria family, the first sight of these structures took our breath away. Stretching from one end of the road to the other the havelis are an amalgamation of traditional Rajasthani and European styles and feature beautiful Jharokas, floral design elements and even motifs of British royalty. All along the length of the building are windows which not only serve to keep the houses cool in the scorching desert summers, but also indicate the wealth of the occupant. We spent the next few hours wandering the bylanes of the old town with Shailendra who took us haveli hopping, pointing out unique elements like the separate doors for men and women, the carved wooden ceilings, which help keep the house cool, occasional frescos of gods and goddesses and inlaid ivory designs in the massive wooden doors on the more elaborate mansions. Whilst we couldnt help but stare in awe at these marvels of human ingenuity, it was tinged by a sense of sadness; most of the homes lay locked and abandoned, many in need of urgent restoration, with families migrating to places like Kolkatta and Mumbai as the silk route fell out of prominence and trade moved to other centres. A walk around the havelis and markets of the old left us famished which meant that it was time to check out Bikaners other wonder its world-famous namkeen! We had seen plenty of shops along the way and ask if the famous Bikanerwala chain which we have seen around other cities, is available here. Shailendra scoffs! Nobody eats that here, he exclaims, after all, woh sab bahar ke liye hai, yaha ka hawa-paani alag hai, aur namkeen ka swad bhi! Our morning ends with Shailendra treating us to mountains of namkeen of all shapes, sizes and flavour, washed down with copious amounts of chai, from a hole in the wall joint hidden away in the old city and whilst neither of us consider ourselves fans of namkeen, we end up by buying loads to take back home with us. A sales job well done. As we sit in an auto, stuck at a railway crossing, curiously located, smack bang in the middle of the city, my mind wanders over the last couple of days in Bikaner. What strikes me through our two days in Bikaner is the relative lack of tourist traffic, despite this large town offering some of the most interesting sights we had seen so far in Rajasthan and I ask Shailendra about this. He sighs as he answers, 'not too many people come here, my guests are mainly French, very few Indians visit Bikaner. For most travellers, it is all about Jodhpur, Jaipur and Jaisalmer'. He seems lost in thought for a second before adding, here everybody is friendly, but nobody will hassle you to buy trinkets or eat at their restaurant, which is why the character of Bikaner has remained intact through all these years. Perhaps it is better this way. The palace, fort and town might not be as popular as the more famed cities of this well-trodden state but it takes hold and has magic that we havent felt yet. We head back to our hotel, the fabulously restored Narendra Bhavan that exudes Rajasthani hospitality without being overbearing, to contemplate our next move, head further east to frescos of Shekhawati or down south to chill for a few days by the banks of the Pushkar lake. Read more from the series here. Photo: Jack Murray Conner Hutchison The Penticton Vees have announced theyve received a pair of commitments from new two players for the 2019-20 season. Defenceman Cade Webber comes to Penticton with imposing size, listed at six-foot-six and 194 pounds. He spent most of last season playing for The Rivers School prep team in Weston, Massachusetts, scoring 12 goals and adding 14 assists in 29 games. Forward Danny Weight has also committed for the coming season. He spent last year with the US National Development Program, splitting time with the U17 team, U18 team and the USHL Junior team. With the USHL team, Weight played 23 games scoring eight goals and seven assists. He is six feet tall and 185 pounds and has already secured a NCAA commitment to Boston College. The Vees also announced 2000-born defenceman Conner Hutchison will return to the Vees for the 2019-20 season. He was a rookie last year scoring two goals and adding eight assists in 22 games. His season was cut short due to an injury suffered November 10 against the Trail Smoke Eaters. The Vees start training camp in mid-August. The crows in Delhi was all praises for Narendra Modi, asserting that only he could bring about change in India. But they couldn't answer questions on the jobs crisis. The mood of the crowd gathered at Delhi's Ramlila Maidan for a rally of Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday evening was clear bulldoze any narrative the Opposition had weaved against the Bharatiya Janata Party. The crowd seemed to be determined to deny the existence of any credible Opposition in the nation and any instance of wrongdoing or failure of the present regime. The air at the venue was inundated by a chorus of "Modi Modi" when the prime minister finally took the stage, waving at the crowd. It was already dusk by the time he began his speech. The reaction of the crowd, however, begs the question will the Modi brand shine this time around, as well? Sonu Sharma, a 26-year-old who came all the way from South Delhi to Ramlila Maidan in Delhi's Chandni Chowk area, answered in the affirmative. He believes that India has no alternative to Modi for the prime minister's seat. "Just look at what he has done for the nation. How decisively and courageously he took on Pakistan after the Pulwama terror attack and inculcated fear in India's enemy. No earlier government had the audacity to take such a step," Sharma said National security has been at the front line of the BJP's election narrative since the Indian Air Force carried out air strikes in Balakot on a Jaish-e-Mohammed training camp in Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. The saffron party has been repeatedly playing up the air strikes as a major success of the Modi government, also attacking the Congress for its alleged lackadaisical efforts to fortify India's security system. At the rally in Delhi, Modi evoked former prime minister Rajiv Gandhi once again, alleging that under his leadership, the Congress had used aircraft carrier INS Viraat for a family holiday. "INS Viraat was insulted by being used as a personal taxi. This happened when Rajiv Gandhi and his family went on a 10-day vacation. INS Viraat was deployed for securing our maritime borders, but it was diverted to take the Gandhi family on a vacation," Modi claimed. To counter the BJP's attacks, the Congress has also been trying to corner the present regime on the security front with the controversy around the Rafael deal, but it has hardly had any success in making a dent in the credibility of brand Modi. "If the allegations of corruption raised by the Congress on the Rafael deal were true, then why is the party president apologising in court?" asked Deepak Katyal, a professional from East Delhi who was part of the crowd at Ramlila Maidan. His statement was in reference to Rahul Gandhi, earlier this week, submitting an "unconditional apology" in the Supreme Court for wrongly attributing his "chowkidaar chor hai" jibe to the apex court. However, when the conversation moved to concerns such as the jobs crisis in India, the people in the crowd seemed to grapple for answers. Sharma, a B.Com second-year student, will soon need a job to make ends meet. But does he have hope in the present job scenario, when the employment rate in India is at a 45-year low? "I think Modiji has to work on this issue harder in his second term as the Prime Minister of India. I believe he will deliver if he gets a second chance, for he is the only leader who is committed to the nation," Sharma said. At the Delhi rally, the prime minister was candid in sending across the message that creation of jobs occupies the main space in his to-do list. He said: "In the past five years, we struck down 1,400 unnecessary rules to make life and carrying out businesses easier. We also did away with the interview process, cutting down scope for corruption in the selection process." Modi also reminded the crowd that India had improved it's Ease of Doing Business ranking. The jobs crisis is a poll plank that the Opposition has repeatedly used to target the Modi government. This took precedence after Modi, in an interview, suggested that selling pakodas was also a form of employment. But Modi's statement earned him the respect of Pankaj Barua, a cook from Assam who works in a canteen in Delhi. "Pakoda selling is not a highly profitable business., but it certainly is a respectable one like any other profession," said Barua, who completed his work early to attend the prime minister's rally. "Modi only tried to convey that every profession should be treated with respect." At the charged rally in Delhi, Modi certainly raised the stakes for the BJP's rivals, the Aam Aadmi Party and Congress. There was a mood in the crowd that appeared to want to have the Arvind Kejriwal government in Delhi overthrown. Though hardly anyone seem to have an answer to the claims of success made by the AAP government in Delhi about its achievements in health and education sector many asserted that Kejriwal did nothing for Delhi. "You can ask anyone in Delhi about what Kejriwal has done. He has done nothing more than lie," said Aastha Kumari, a student from North West Delhi. It is no wonder that the prime minister's "nakampanthi" (non-performance) jibe against the AAP government struck a chord with the crowd immediately. "Delhi has seen a 'nakampanthi' model of governance. People had come to change the country, but they changed themselves instead. They supported the 'tukde tukde' gang and strengthened India's enemies," Modi said. Many in the crowd expressed gross discontent over Kejriwal's decision to ally with West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee. "Under Mamata's regime, Hindus live in fear. But Kejriwal allied with her in the name of supporting a pointless demand like full statehood for Delhi," Sharma said, adding that Delhi was better off as a Union Territory as it made it easier for the city to get funding. The crowd at the rally had a similar opinion of the Congress' proposed minimum income guarantee scheme, which many believe is a lie. "Why didn't the Congress pay money to the poor when the party was in power?" asked Vibha Kumari, a student from North West Delhi. Many in the crowd asserted that moves like the Goods and Services Tax and demonetisation would transform the Indian economy in the future. However, what makes the contest in Delhi interesting is that is it the slum dwellers who will ultimately have a sway over deciding the winner. Will Balakot, GST and demonetisation appeal to them? This question remains to be answered. There is no change in the lives of nearly 1,850 sex workers of Garstin Bastion (GB) Road renamed as Swami Shraddhanand Marg part of Chandni Chowk Lok Sabha constituency, one of the seven constituencies of Delhi. In a season when the voter is the king and political leaders of all hues go door-to-door asking for votes with many undertaking this exercise only at this time the electorate of Delhis infamous red light area, GB Road, is all but forgotten. None of the three main candidates contesting from the Chandni Chowk Lok Sabha constituency of Delhi, of which the GB Road is a part, has paid the sex workers a visit. These candidates are BJPs sitting MP and Union minister, Harsh Vardhan, Congress old-guard JP Agarwal and AAPs backroom strategist and IT professional, Pankaj Gupta. Polling will be held here on 12 May. There is no change in the lives of nearly 1,850 sex workers of Garstin Bastion (GB) Road renamed as Swami Shraddhanand Marg part of Chandni Chowk Lok Sabha constituency, one of the seven constituencies of Delhi. The women of these brothels havent even received voters slip, so they might not be able to cast their vote. The inmates of brothels living in cramped rooms in the claustrophobic kothas that can aptly be described as pigeon holes see no ray of hope in elections. Its like the kothas they stay, where no sunlight ever enters. Narrow corridors flanked by pan-stained walls after a flight of dark, dingy and steep stairs lead one to these kothas on the first and second floors of old buildings constructed during the British Raj on one side of a kilometre long stretch of the congested GB Road. Though aware of BJP, AAP and Congress, and about their leaders like Prime Minister Narendra Modi or Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal, most of the sex workers are ignorant about the candidates contesting the Lok Sabha election this time. Of the 10 Assembly segments in this constituency, the red light area on GB Road is a part of Matia Mahal and Ballimaran seats. The over-crowded Shradhhanand Marg that has the largest wholesale market for tools and equipment, is a witness to anarchy due to unruly traffic, lawlessness, hooliganism in broad daylight, overflowing drains, open gutters and lack of parking facility. A passerby can anytime be intimidated by pimps, pickpockets and hooligans, though there are two police posts, including a Mahila Thana at the two ends of the road. Nothing has improved in this area in the last several years. There have been multi-fold times rise in goondagardi (hooliganism) and all sorts of criminal activities in this area, which has made GB Road area very unsafe. There are cases of looting and stabbing in broad daylight. Resultantly, the business in these brothels has drastically declined. Weve been suffering year after year due to poor civic amenities, but no government has helped in redressing these issues, said Nazreen, a brothel owner, who now voluntarily works for BPUS for the welfare of sex workers of the area. The last political leader to have visited the area was former Union minister and Congress candidate Kapil Sibal, who ranked third in the 2014 Lok Sabha election, while Harsh Vardhan defeated AAPs journalist-turned-politician Ashutosh by over one lakh votes. It was during 2014 elections that Kapil Sibal had visited this area and interacted with us including many sex workers. But after that, no one visited, not even Kejriwal, who had made tall promises before elections. In the past, a few politicians used to visit like Congress leader and minister in Sheila Dikshits government, Haroon Yusuf. Nothing will change for sex workers, no matter who comes to power, Iqbal Ahmed, secretary (Delhi unit) of Bhartiya Patita Uddhar Sabha (BPUS) told Firstpost. BPUS is an NGO founded by activist-president Khairati Lal Bhola (91) that works for the welfare of sex workers. One of the major works done by the organisation was to get voting right for sex workers. Bhola has been demanding legalisation of prostitution or sex trade for years, so that it would free sex workers from the exploitation by brothel owners and pimps, extortion by the police and from the clutches of moneylenders. But, it hasnt materialised yet. Till 1947, sex workers were given license to operate, and after 1956, renewal of licenses was discontinued. The sex workers, who are mostly below poverty line, dont have ration cards. Despite trying hard for years, we failed to get ration cards for these sex workers. However, in the face of severe resistance from brothel owners and pimps, we managed to get voter IDs for 1,500 odd sex workers. Though these women cast votes, they dont get basic facilities like other citizens. AAP government publicised so much about Mohalla Clinics, but there is none here. One has to visit government hospitals or private clinics, said Ahmed (61), who have been residing in this area almost for four decades and joined BPUS after coming in contact with Bhola. Issues plaguing GB Road red light area Lack of basic medical facilities. No Mohalla Clinic in the area. No free distribution of condoms. There are no condom dispensation machines. Under the Central governments AIDS prevention programme, the National AIDS Control Organisation (NACO) distributes free condoms. Most of the time, street lights are dysfunctional, which has made GB Road a safe haven for criminals. From snatching, robbing, drug peddling to intimidation by touts and pimps, and murder every form of crime takes place even in broad daylight. Lack of parking facility, traffic congestion and overflowing drains. According to residents, the municipal corporation doesnt bother to take preventive measures during monsoons against vector-borne diseases by spraying DDT and other insecticides. Any address mentioning GB Road on any document itself is a problem for the children of sex workers during school admission. The hooliganism and the unsafe atmosphere in the area have badly affected the business of tools and equipment. The General Machinery and Merchant Association has given several memoranda to the government and district administration for safety and security, but to no effect. Sahab humey rajneeti samaj nahi aati (Sir, we dont understand politics). But every time an election takes place and a new government is formed, we pray that they would do something for the unfortunates like us. Instead, we have faced harassment by Mahila Aayog (Delhi Commission for Women) on the pretext of raids, lamented Rani (name changed) a sex worker who has been a resident of GB Road for the last 18 years. Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera said Narendra Modi had tried to shift the blame for 'his foolish acts' in the last five years to late Prime Ministers Rajiv Gandhi and also Jawaharlal Nehru. Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera, rebutting Prime Minister Narendra Modi's accusation that former prime minister Rajiv Gandhi used the INS Viraat as a "personal taxi for family vacations", said Vice Admiral Vinod Pasricha (retd) said that Modi is lying and that Rajiv used the INS Viraat while on an official visit. "It wasnt a holiday, but facts dont matter to Narendra Modi," he added. #LIVE Vice Admiral Vinod Pasricha (Retd) said that this is a lie. The then Prime Minister was on an official visit, it wasnt a holiday but facts dont matter to Mr. @narendramodi: @INCIndias @Pawankhera addresses media. | #ElectionsWithNews18 #PMRajivJibe pic.twitter.com/8MPeAB0mvl News18 (@CNNnews18) May 9, 2019 Addressing a press conference in Delhi, Khera said Modi was attacking Rajiv as he had no achievements of his government to present before voters during the ensuing Lok Sabha elections. Khera also alleged that Modi was the first prime minister seeking votes on his "failures". "What happened in Pulwama is a monumental failure of the intelligence. However Modiji dared to seek votes over it. Issues such as demonetisation, unemployment and Rafale aircraft deal were not the part of the debate for Modi," he said. CLICK HERE TO FOLLOW LIVE UPDATES ON LOK SABHA ELECTION 2019 "Modi may hold Rajiv responsible for all this. The government has informed the Supreme Court that documents related to Rafale were stolen. Modi may hold Rajivji responsible for it. Or be it fugitive offenders who flew away with Rs 1 lakh crore," Khera said. Khera said Modi tried to shift the blame for "his foolish acts" in the last five years to late prime ministers Rajiv and also Nehru. In response to Modi's remarks, Congress chief Rahul Gandhi said that "battle is over" for the prime minister. "Modiji, your karma awaits you. Projecting your inner beliefs about yourself onto my father won't protect you," he tweeted. Rahul signed off with a reference to his now popular show of affection for the prime minister in Parliament last year. "All my love and a huge hug," he wrote. His sister and Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra also tweeted, in response to Modi's jibe, that the "people of Amethi" will give a befitting response to the insult to Rajiv. "The prime minister who politicises and insults the martyrdom of brave personnel has, in an unbridled craze, also insulted a humble and pure man's martyrdom. The people of Amethi, for whom Rajiv Gandhi lost his life, will reply. Yes, Modiji, this country will never forgive betrayal," she said. With inputs from agencies Punjab chief minister Amarinder Singh said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who will be holding his first rally in Punjab in Hoshiarpur on Friday, has no moral right to ask for votes in Punjab as the central government has done nothing for the state since Congress took over in the state Patiala: A day before Prime Minister Narendra Modi's election rally in Punjab, Chief Minister Amarinder Singh said Thursday the BJP leader has "no moral right" to ask for votes from the people of the state. The prime minister will address his first rally in Punjab in this Lok Sabha polls on Friday at Hoshiarpur. "Modi has no moral right to ask for votes in Punjab, for which he had done absolutely nothing and whose people he had left to fend for themselves," Singh said at a rally here. "The Modi government did nothing for Punjab or its people in the last two years and two months since the Congress government took over in the state," the chief minister said. He asserted that his government was left to fend for itself despite the "massive debt legacy" left behind by the previous BJP-SAD government. Not only has the state gone ahead with its promised farm loan waiver scheme but also expanded the primary health insurance cover to 42 lakh families, the chief minister said. Describing Modi as a "self-obsessed man", he said the nation has seen how the prime minister has ruled in the past five years, "destroying every institution and ruining all sections of the society with his ill-conceived policies, such as demonetisation and GST". Stressing the need for change, the chief minister said the fate of the country was now in the hands of the people. The nation's growth rate has been put in the reverse direction, and every citizen of India is suffering under the Modi regime, Singh said. Punjab, with 13 Lok Sabha seats, goes to polls in the seventh and the last phase of the general election on May 19. Click here to follow LIVE upates on Lok Sabha Election 2019 Addressing a rally in New Delhi, his second in four days in the national capital, Rahul said he acknowledges the Congress has made mistakes, but its intention is good and the party does not promise anything it cannot deliver. New Delhi: Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Thursday accused the AAP of "opening doors" for Narendra Modi in the 2014 Lok Sabha polls and asserted that it is only his party that can defeat the BJP. Addressing a rally in New Delhi, his second in four days in the national capital, Rahul said he acknowledges the Congress has made mistakes, but its intention is good and the party does not promise anything it cannot deliver. Canvassing for his party's East Delhi candidate Arvinder Singh Lovely, he claimed that Modi and Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal make promises that cannot be fulfilled. "The Aam Aadmi Party gave a slogan (in 2014) 'Arvind Kejriwal for CM and Narendra Modi for PM'. The doors for Narendra Modi were opened by the AAP," Rahul said. "One cannot hear the slogan 'chowkidar chor hain' (the watchman is the thief) in the Aam Aadmi Party office," he said. In his rally on Monday, Rahul had held Kejriwal responsible for the failure of alliance talks and claimed the AAP national convener took a "U-turn" from an agreed position and wanted a tie-up beyond the national capital. Rahul also cited posters which read 'Hum kaam karte rahe, woh rokte rahe' (we worked, they stalled), a reference to the turf war between the Delhi government and the Centre, and alleged when the AAP contested polls, it never highlighted this. Taking on Kejriwal on the sealing issue, the Congress president said the Delhi chief minister complained that he cannot do anything on sealing. "You are in power. Small traders... Delhi's backbone being broken, sealing is on. You are the chief minister and you say you cannot do anything? Congress had stopped this in Parliament," Rahul said. Attacking Modi over demonetisation and GST implementation, he said the "nationalist Narendra Modi" hurt the Indian economy. Taking a dig, Rahul claimed the prime minister reads from a teleprompter and this was due to "fear" instilled by Congress workers. "The Congress has made mistakes; I acknowledge that. But our intentions are clean. I didn't make false promise of Rs 15 lakh in bank accounts. I said Rs 3.60 lakh in five years. I won't say I will give you Rs 15 lakh. Kill me, but I won't say it. On the other hand, Kejriwal and Modi have been making one false promise after another," he said. The Congress president said if his party is elected to power, it will implement the minimum income guarantee NYAY scheme which will increase the spending capacity of people and boost the economy. He also reiterated the promise of filling up 22 lakh job vacancies in the government sector, one of the main poll planks of his party. The Congress, the BJP and the AAP are locked in a three-cornered contest in Delhi. Congress general-secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra had on Wednesday held roadshows in support of her party's North East Delhi and South Delhi candidates Sheila Dikshit and Vijender Singh respectively. While AAP seemed nearly absent from the ground, there was discontentment among the people, for the Congress, and even for Manoj Tiwari. Tumne ghatbandhan tukhraaya, hum tumhe thukraate hain a glossy white banner with this slogan dangled off a terrace wall at Ghonda Chowk in North East Delhi. Right below it, Priyanka Gandhis roadshow inched forward, tearing through a sea of supporters and onlookers. The Congress new signature chant chowkidaar chor hai was on the loop. Describing herself as a dilli ki ladki, Priyanka stated that the people of the city have seen her (and her family) through good and bad days and have played a key role in raising her. In a starchy red saree, standing atop a van, Priyanka compared the prime minister to that schoolboy who doesnt do his homework and keeps putting the blame on other students - Indira Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru. She threw an open challenge to the prime minister to fight the last two phases of the election based on issues like GST, demonetisation and women's safety. The Uttar Pradesh East general secretary of the Congress party accused the ruling party of having failed to defend youngsters by not offering them jobs and hence having failed to defend the nation. Despite a bolder than before style of making her point, Priyanka's speech reflected the same four-five jibes the Congress Lok Sabha campaign takes at the prime minister. On 12 March, in her first speech in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, after being appointed as general secretary of the party, Priyanka had made subtle references to the prime minister, without taking his name. Today, when the countrys fascination with dynasty has become a subject of serious scrutiny and the cornerstone for an erstwhile opposition party to come to power with a kind of majority it had never enjoyed, Priyankas job has become harder. Yet, the Congress is seen campaigning with its 81-year-old former chief minister Sheila Dikshit and the newest Gandhi campaigner. Dikshit looked particularly frail and peeped out of a sunroof. The grand old party is relying on the popularity of the former chief minister and its old loyalists to cause a dent in the vote share of the Aam Aadmi Party. The parties that failed to come together and form an alliance are now faced with the mammoth challenge of defeating the Bhartiya Janata Party. Firstpost hit ground zero: Ghonda Chowk, in North East Delhi, to grasp the sentiment of the local voter. The first four-five layers in the crowd were supporters sporting Congress sashes and waving party flags. My forefathers voted for the Congress thats why I am a Congress supporter, said Rajiv Sharma, resident of Ghonda. The Congress has very few councillors in the constituency. After Sheila Dikshit entered the race, the cadre has found a new lease of life, said Sumit, another Congress supporter from the area. In 2014, BJPs Manoj Tiwari won from here with 59,6125 votes, AAPs Anand Kumar came in second with 45,2041 and Jai Prakash Agarwal of the Congress came in third with 21,4792. Interestingly, many in the rally were from Jafrabad and Mustafabad, two areas with more than 60 percent Muslim votes in the constituency. Roz Ali and Asit Ali from Mustafabad had walked along with the roadshow that covered a little over two kilometres. They said they came all the way to catch a glimpse of Priyanka who they felt would have made a better candidate. Even in a group of Congress supporters, especially here for the roadshow, Modi supporters could be seen. We know Manoj Tiwari hasnt done anything for this area. We are voting for Modi. We dont want Rs 15 lakh in our accounts for free. If Modi ji becomes prime minister again, we will find the ability to earn Rs 15 crore on our own, said Prakash Thakur, a resident of Ghonda, who praised Modi for taking tough decisions for the countrys wellbeing, even at the risk of upsetting his own image. CLICK HERE TO FOLLOW LIVE UPDATES ON LOK SABHA ELECTION 2019 Arvind Kumar, another resident of Ghonda, said Tiwari has done some work but failed to recall what. Standing next to him, Amit Sharma said the opposition lacks a face like Modi and thats why defeating the BJP will be nearly impossible for opposition parties. From Wazirabad to Sonia Vihar, Manoj Tiwari is the only candidate who is being talked about. Nobody knows the name of the AAP candidate and Congress is present only on paper, said Girish Tomar, a resident of Ghonda who said crowds came to see Gandhi and not to stand with the Congress party. He added that given Dikshit's entry into the race, the party might be able to retain its old 30 percent vote but won't be able to win back Modi supporters who traditionally voted for the Congress. Suresh Kumar, a BJP worker wearing a lotus pin on his off-white shirt, also stood watching the convoy pass by. When asked about his candidate from the area, he said, This election is not about Manoj Tiwari. It is about Modi because the country needs a man who can build it and defend it. He added that Tiwari has done some good work in Sonia Vihar but failed to recall the details. However, not all were kind to Tiwari. Manoj Tiwari hasnt visited this area even once. He only comes when he has to campaign and when he has to sing. Now hes brought a dancer Sapna Chaudhary to make a mockery of politics in our constituency, said Rakesh Thakur, an old BJP supporter. Devendra, a resident of Ghonda chowk and a Congress supporter said the lack of development -- garbage on the streets, terribly high crime rate and lack of womens safety are a result of Tiwaris incompetence. Out of nearly a hundred people, only one person spoke in favour of AAPs statehood demand. Ehsaan, a resident of Seelampur, stated that the Municipality Corporation of Delhi should be in control of the Delhi government because it extorts money from street vendors and e-rickshaw pullers. While AAP seemed nearly absent from the ground, there was discontentment among the people, for the Congress, and even for Tiwari. Himachal Pradesh chief minister Jai Ram Thakur Thursday said Congress chief Rahul Gandhi has 'lost his mental balance', in another case of name-calling during these Lok Sabha elections Nahan: Himachal Pradesh chief minister Jai Ram Thakur Thursday said Congress chief Rahul Gandhi has "lost his mental balance", in another case of name-calling during these Lok Sabha elections. Addressing a poll rally here, Thakur claimed that party leaders remain tense whenever the Gandhi scion is addressing a rally, fearing that he might cause embarrassment. The Congressmen feel relieved when Rahul completes his speech, Thakur claimed. In contrast, every word of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's speeches is analysed internationally, Thakur said. The chief minister further said that the Congress leadership was in a "pathetic" condition. He said that Modi strengthened the national security and unlike the previous Congress regime, a befitting reply is given to Pakistan if there is a terror attack in India. Due to Narendra Modi's dynamic leadership and successful foreign policy, India is shining on the global platform, Thakur said. Not only is India getting respect from almost every nation in the world, they are carefully listening to us and fully supporting us, he added. Everybody has witnessed this truth after India did Balakot air strikes and whole world was with us, Thakur said. The chief minister expressed hope that in this election, the Bharatiya Janata Party-led National Democratic Alliance will get more seats then what it got in the 2014 general elections. There is 'pro incumbency wave' in the country and the people want to see Narendra Modi as the prime minister once more, he said. Praising the schemes and programmes launched by the Modi government, he said that the efforts of the prime minister's focus has been on the upliftment of the poor, helping middle class and creating jobs by expanding production capacities in the country. Click here to follow LIVE upates on Lok Sabha Election 2019 Lok Sabha Election 2019 LIVE Updates:After being dragged into a controversy over a pamphlet against Atishi, BJP candidate Gautam Gambhir said, 'I will definitely file a defamation case against them (AAP leaders). You can't tarnish someone's image just like that, if you don't have the proof. I have never given a negative statement against anyone so far in my election campaigning.' Auto refresh feeds In Bengal, he can be expected to direct the vitriol at chief minister and Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee at his public meetings in Bankura (10 am) and Purulia (11.40 am). In Uttar Pradesh, the prime minister is likely to once again barrel into the past of Rajiv Gandhi, at rallies in Azamgarh (3.10 pm), Jaunpur (4.45 pm) and finally, Prayagraj (6.40 pm). With only two phases of the 2019 Lok Sabha election remaining to go, back and forth between the Bharatiya Janata Party and Opposition parties has reached a crescendo with little effort at courtesy on either side. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to address rallies in West Bengal and Uttar Pradesh today (9 May), a day after making charged speeches targeting the Gandhi family and also alleging that the Congress had insulted him in several ways through the years. The Supreme Court will, on Thursday, hear the petition to keep Rahul Gandhi from contesting polls and becoming a Member of Parliament in the future over having allegedly acquired British citizenship. On 1 May, the home ministry sent Rahul a notice seeking a response to charges that he held British citizenship. Congress president Rahul Gandhi is poised to reply to the prime minister's charges at his scheduled rallies at Sirsa in Haryana, Sagar in Madhya Pradesh and Ramlila Maidan in Delhi. The last venue is where Modi accused the Gandhi family of using INS Viraat as a "personal taxi" for 10 days when his family and his in-laws took a vacation, thereby allegedly compromising national security. Like on Wednesday, when their Delhi campaigns nearly coincided, Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra will be at Jaunpur at around the same time as Modi. She will also hold rallies at Uttar Pradesh's Pratapgarh and Sultanpur. Priyanka on Wednesday accused Modi of blaming the Nehru-Gandhi family for his own failures, alleging that he was like a "schoolboy who failed to do his homework" and his excuses are "Pandit Nehru has taken away his answer-sheet and Indira Gandhi has made a paper boat out of that." He also added that because Pakistan is continuously supporting terrorists, if Pakistan doesn't stops terrorism, India won't have any other option but to stop river water to Pakistan. A day after Prime Minister Narendra Modi repeated the claim that India's excess water was "enriching Pakistan's soil" and that India would attempt to stop flow of it from the three rivers which belong to the country according to the Indus Water Treaty, India's water resources minister Nitin Gadkari also hinted that India might not be honour bound to follow the words of the treaty. "Water is going to Pakistan from three rivers. We don't want to stop that. But the basis of the water treaty between India and Pakistan was peaceful relations and friendship, which have completely vanished. So we are not bound to follow this treaty," said Gadkari. Patel also said the BJP-backed VP Singh government which had allegedly refused to provide Rajiv with additional security in the charged 1991 atmosphere and had "left him with one personal security officer" despite credible intelligence inputs and repeated requests, was responsible for killing him. Striking back at the Narendra Modi-led attack on late prime minister Rajiv Gandhi on behalf of the Congress on Thursday, Ahmed Patel labelled the abuse levelled at a person who was no longer able to reply to it as an "act of ultimate cowardice." Harnessing the term "Bhakt ka chashma," the Congress uploaded a satirical music video, showing how BJP supporters were allegedly bent upon seeing the condition of the country as much better than it actually is. A real sunglass is used to cloud issues like unemployment, lack of hospital supplies and farmers' issues as an abundance of jobs, great medical care and a hearty meal for a farmer. In the election season, both Congress and BJP have been using specially shot and intricately produced videos to hit the opposition party where it hurts. Speaking at his first rally of the day in West Bengal's Bankura, Narendra Modi lost no time in coining two new campaign phrases, "chup chap kamal chhap" and "booth booth se TMC saaf". He struck at Mamata Banerjee and her government, alleging that she cared not about the people of Bengal but about her own family and its wealth. Modi also alleged that while Mamata allegedly feels pride on behalf of Pakistam prime minister Imran Khan, she was "too proud" to take his call when he made one after the cyclone (Fani). Modi alleged that Mamata had also turned down the central government's requests for meetings on relief. Called Mamata twice after cyclone, but she was too proud to take my call, says PM Modi accused Mamata of a host of charges, including keeping worshippers of Ram and Saraswati in constant fear. He said she had reduced a thinking, artistic land such as Bengal into one of dadagiri. Addressing locals of two key Parliamentary constituencies of Bankura and Bishnupur (both of which go to polls on Sunday), Narendra Modi made a last ditch effort to harness popular trust by switching between Bengali and Hindi throughout the rally. While his pronunciation faltered in the former, his attack on chief minister Mamata Banerjee was unflinching. The tussle over Rajiv Gandhi and the extent of his culpability for events that transpired three decades ago has well and truly risen to a crescendo. While the BJP has concentrated the attack first made by prime minister Narendra Modi on Saturday, the Congress has expressed its unveiled anger at slams made on a prime minister who is no longer alive to defend himself. Meanwhile, Opposition leaders like Omar Abdullah questioned why the BJP would seek to rake up an issue as old as Rajiv's alleged corruption. "From December 1990 till May 1991, when Shri Rajiv Gandhi was assassinated, the Congress party supported Chandra Shekhar government was in power," Jaitley wrote on Twitter, pointing out that the Congress had at times chosen to blame the DMK for this death and has now decided to focus on the BJP out of compulsion. Arun Jaitley, on Thursday, sought to reply to Congress' charge that BJP was responsible for Rajiv Gandhi's death. Minutes after Congress leader Ahmed Patel decried the attacks on a deceased prime minister who was no longer able to defend himself in the face of abuses, Jaitley turned the tables and instead hit out at the Congress for blaming the BJP for Rajiv's death. Patel had said the BJP-supported VK Singh government had de-escalated Rajiv's security and that their "hatred" had killed him. The Supreme Court has declined to urgently list a petition by CPM against the Election Commission's order of re-polling across just 168 booths of Tripura West parliamentary constituency. CPM had asked for repolling in 433 booths. The poll panel had ordered repolling to take place on 12 May. Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi, hearing the matter, said, "Some company in some form has mentioned Rahul Gandhi as a British citizen, so does he becomes British citizen? Dismissed." The Supreme Court on Thursday dismissed the petition against Congress chief Rahul Gandhi, alleging he holds citizenship of two countries, India and Britain. The petitioners had asked that Rahul be banned from contesting in the Lok Sabha election as he is a British citizenship. Modi said Mamata might have been better off to have slapped those of her aides who had been levying a TTT, a Trinamool Tolabaji Tax from the people of Bengal. Speaking at his second rally of the day at Bengal's Purulia, Narendra Modi took the "slap" charge further, and said while Mamata Banerjee wants to slap him, he regards her as his elder sister, calls her "Didi" and is willing to accept her slaps as blessings. On Wednesday, Mamata had spoken at a rally on Modi's rule coming as a slap to democracy, which some media outlets had mis-reported as "slap to Modi", In addition to blaming her with scaring people who wished to chant 'Jai shri Ram' and 'Jai ma Kali', Narendra Modi said at his Purulia meeting on Thursday that Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee had destroyed the 'black gold' of Purulia by bringing in the coal mafia there. He also brought up Rabindranath Tagore, on the day of the poet's birth anniversay according to the Bengali calendar, and said that Mamata had entirely destroyed Tagore's vision for India. Mamata Banerjee-helmed Trinamool Congress, on the birth anniversary of Rabindranath Tagore, uploaded a video slamming BJP chief Amit Shah over his mistake at a Birbhum rally in identifying the birthplace of the poet as Birbhum itself. The clip shows Shah saying Tagore was born in Birbhum on a loop. "They talk of saving Bengali culture! First learn about Bangla and then dream about winning here," the TMC tweeted through its official account. While Chouhan has two brothers, Narendra and Surjit, it is not known how 'Rohit' is related to him. Rahul had, on Wednesday, said that even Shivraj's relatives had benefitted from the Congress-led government's loan waiver scheme in Madhya Pradesh. Former Madhya Pradesh chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan said on Thursday that Congress president Rahul Gandhi had made a false claim in saying that even Chouhan's brother's farm loans had been waived. "In application forms that were presented before the panchayat in Jait, it's written that my brother Rohit hasn't even filled an application for farm loan waiver," Chouhan alleged. Keeping the topics of his rally in Haryana's Sirsa limited to the usual ones of Congress' campaign, the NYAY scheme and the Rafale deal, Rahul Gandhi avoided speaking on his father Rajiv Gandhi amidst the back and forth regarding the former prime minister. "Narendra Modi ji, you want to talk on Rajiv Gandhi, but talk on the Rafale deal first," said Rahul, before moving on to farmers' issues once again. Law and order was also cited as a reason for cutting off mobile internet a couple of days later in Rajasthan's Sikar district. Since voting began last month, shutdowns of mobile internet have been reported from across Rajasthan, West Bengal and Indian-administered Kashmir, according to the Delhi-based Software Freedom Law Center (SFLC). According to the SFLC, on 18 April, authorities in the Srinagar and Udhampur districts of Indian-administered Kashmir suspended mobile internet access during polling "as a precautionary measure to maintain law and order." People in pockets of the country are being denied access to the internet for days at a time as they prepare to cast their ballots, a CNN report has revealed. "Prove that even one of my 42 Lok Sabha candidates have any connection with the coal mafia, and I will cancel the nomination of all 42 of them. But if you fail, you will have to do 100 sit ups," she said to Modi. Speaking at Bankura shortly after Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke at a rally in the same constituency, TMC chief Mamata Banerjee was full of admonishment at everything ranging from the prime minister's rally timings to the noise being made by college students attending her rally. She was particularly vicious at Modi's allegation, at his second rally in Purulia, that her party had exposed the eponymous district to the coal mafia. "Only when BJP came to power there was sabka saath, sabka vikas. We never asked for anyone's caste or religion while undertaking the work of development." Addressing a rally in Sant Kabir Nagar, BJP chief Amit Shah said, "When SP was in power in Uttar Pradesg, they worked only for one caste. When BSP was in power, the work for mainly done for some other government. No work was done was the society. He said that he was ready to withdraw his candidature if there was proof that the pamphlets were his doing. However, he further asked AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal and Atishi if they would step down from politics if he's not found guilty. Amid a row over offensive pamphlet against AAP candidate Atishi, BJP nominee Gautam Gambhir blamed Arvind Kejriwal, saying, "I abhor your act of outraging a womans modesty Arvind Kejriwal and that too your own colleague. And all this for winning elections?" "There is no word in the dictionary that Congress, SP, BSP leaders did not use to insult me. I want to tell them that the more abuses you hurl, the more the lotus will bloom," Narendra Modi said in Azamgarh. In Sagar, Congress president Rahul Gandhi lashed out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi over Rafale deal and unemployment. " Modi is not able to tell the people that he failed. If he admits it, we can forgive him, but he should at least tell us what he'll do in the next five years. Our Congress workers have shut all doors for the BJP. It's time for goodbye." "I understand that knowledge and power is with the people of the country. In the last five years, Narendra Modi has become confused. He has started thinking that he runs the country, and that he doesn't need the farmers. He told one of his ministers that if our farmers can grow wheat or sugarcane, then we can import it. But, I disagree. The farmers of the country can challenge anybody in the world if he is given aid." Congress president Rahul Gandhi said in Sagar, "I will never be able to say from Red fort or anywhere else that no work was done before I came to power. That's because I think I'm one of you. I know that the country was great even before any of us came to this stage. I have no confusion. Whatever you tell me, I will listen and try to execute him. While taking a dig at Narendra Modi at a rally in Madhya Pradesh's Sagar, Rahul Gandhi said that he'll never say from the ramparts of Red Fort or any other stage that no progress took place before he came to power. Every year on the Independence day, the Prime Minister of India hoists the flag at the main gate of the Red Fort and delivers a nationally broadcast speech from its ramparts. Rahul's jibe at Modi shows that his prime ministerial ambitions are still alive. In Bankura, TMC supremo Mamata Banerjee lashed out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi for levelling allegations against her party leaders for alleged links with the coal mafia. "I challenge Modi, if you can prove your allegations that one of us is part of coal mafia, I will withdraw all my 42 candidates. If you are lying, you have to hold your ears and do a hundred sit ups before public," she said. Referring to Mayawati as 'behenji', Narendra Modi criticised the SP-BSP alliance in Uttar Pradesh at a rally in Jaunpur. "Behen ji will understand the game that has been played to keep her outside Uttar Pradesh only after 23 May. Behen ji is now seeking votes for the people who had called Babasaheb Ambedkar a land mafia and insulted him at every step," he said. After being dragged into a controversy over a pamphlet against Atishi, BJP candidate Gautam Gambhir said, "I will definitely file a defamation case against them (AAP leaders). You can't tarnish someone's image just like that, if you don't have the proof. I have never given a negative statement against anyone so far in my election campaigning." "I understand that knowledge and power is with the people of the country. In the last five years, Narendra Modi has become confused. He has started thinking that he runs the country, and that he doesn't need the farmers. He told one of his ministers that if our farmers can grow wheat or sugarcane, then we can import it. But, I disagree. The farmers of the country can challenge anybody in the world if he is given aid." Congress president Rahul Gandhi said in Sagar, "I will never be able to say from Red fort or anywhere else that no work was done before I came to power. That's because I think I'm one of you. I know that the country was great even before any of us came to this stage. I have no confusion. Whatever you tell me, I will listen and try to execute him. While taking a dig at Narendra Modi at a rally in Madhya Pradesh's Sagar, Rahul Gandhi said that he'll never say from the ramparts of Red Fort or any other stage that no progress took place before he came to power. Every year on the Independence day, the Prime Minister of India hoists the flag at the main gate of the Red Fort and delivers a nationally broadcast speech from its ramparts. Rahul's jibe at Modi shows that his prime ministerial ambitions are still alive. West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee in Bankura: I challenge you (PM Modi) if you can prove your allegations that one of us is part of coal mafia, I will withdraw all my 42 candidates. If you are lying, you have to hold your ears and do a hundred sit ups before public. pic.twitter.com/mBQT59MP4J In Bankura, TMC supremo Mamata Banerjee lashed out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi for levelling allegations against her party leaders for alleged links with the coal mafia. "I challenge Modi, if you can prove your allegations that one of us is part of coal mafia, I will withdraw all my 42 candidates. If you are lying, you have to hold your ears and do a hundred sit ups before public," she said. Referring to Mayawati as 'behenji', Narendra Modi criticised the SP-BSP alliance in Uttar Pradesh at a rally in Jaunpur. "Behen ji will understand the game that has been played to keep her outside Uttar Pradesh only after 23 May. Behen ji is now seeking votes for the people who had called Babasaheb Ambedkar a land mafia and insulted him at every step," he said. In Jaunpur, Narendra Modi said if his government returns to power, he will remove the 5-acre clause under the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-Kisan) so as to give the benefits of the scheme to all farmers. Modi had said in Uttar Pradesh's Pratapgarh district on Saturday that Rajiv Gandhi had died a corrupt person. "Your (Rahul Gandhi's) father was termed 'Mr Clean' by his courtiers, but his life ended as bhrashtachari number 1," he had said. "It is a painful thing that Modi has forgot his status. The way he is levelling allegations is atrocious. He is not talking about youths, about farmers, about traders but trying to divert people's attention. He is misleading people," Nath said in an interview. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's allegations against Rajiv Gandhi are "atrocious" and the way he now talks reflects that he is highly enraged and has started feeling that time has come for him to return to Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh chief minister Kamal Nath said on Thursday. Gautam Gambhir, BJP's East Delhi candidate: If they can get a proof, I'll resign right now & if they get a proof by 23rd I'll resign on that particular day. But if Arvind Kejriwal does not get the proof, does he accept the challenge that he will leave politics forever on 23rd? pic.twitter.com/qAdH6W9cW0 After being dragged into a controversy over a pamphlet against Atishi, BJP candidate Gautam Gambhir said, "I will definitely file a defamation case against them (AAP leaders). You can't tarnish someone's image just like that, if you don't have the proof. I have never given a negative statement against anyone so far in my election campaigning." #WATCH : Actor-turned-politician Sunny Deol who is the BJP candidate from Gurdaspur Lok Sabha seat was kissed on his cheek by a woman during his roadshow in Batala, Punjab yesterday. pic.twitter.com/YTQvNDzRYL Sunny Deol in Punjab latest updates Woman kisses Sunny Deol on cheek during Batala roadshow A woman kissed BJP candidate and actor Sunny Deol on the cheek during his campaign in Punjab's Batala. Deol is the BJP candidate from Gurdaspur. He will face Punjab Congress chief Sunil Jakhar in the constituency. Congress Divya Spandana slams PM for taking Canadian Akshay Kumar aboard INS Sumitra A day after Prime Minister Narendra Modi hit out at late Rajiv Gandhi for taking his family, foreigner in-laws for a holiday aboard personal taxi INS Viraat, Congress social media strategist slammed him for allegedly taking Akshay Kumar, a Canadian citizen, aboard INS Sumitra. She wrote, Yeh teek tha (Was this right?)? @narendramodi you took a Canadian citizen @akshaykumar with you on-board INS Sumitra," Spandana tweeted with the hashtag 'sabse bada jhoota Modi (biggest liar Modi)'. In Prayagraj, Prime Minister Narendra Modi targetted Congress over corruption allegations. "Commonwealth Games were held in 2010. It was a great opportunity for Indian athletes to show their potential. But the event is remembered more for the corruption under Congress government than the achievements of our atheletes," he said. Lok Sabha Election 2019 LATEST Updates: After being dragged into a controversy over a pamphlet against Atishi, BJP candidate Gautam Gambhir said, "I will definitely file a defamation case against them (AAP leaders). You can't tarnish someone's image just like that, if you don't have the proof. I have never given a negative statement against anyone so far in my election campaigning." In Bankura, TMC supremo Mamata Banerjee lashed out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi for levelling allegations against her party leaders for alleged links with the coal mafia. "I challenge Modi, if you can prove your allegations that one of us is part of coal mafia, I will withdraw all my 42 candidates. If you are lying, you have to hold your ears and do a hundred sit ups before public," she said. Addressing a rally in Azamgarh, Prime Minister Narendra Modi continued his tirade against the Opposition over the abuses subjected to him in the past. "There is no word in the dictionary that Congress, SP, BSP leaders did not use to insult me. I want to tell them that the more abuses you hurl, the more the lotus will bloom," he said. Amid a row over offensive pamphlet against AAP candidate Atishi, BJP nominee Gautam Gambhir said that he'll withdraw his candidature if there is proof that he was behind the act. He further asked AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal and Atishi if they would step down from politics if he's not found guilty. BJP Delhi spokesperson Harish Khurana responded to the allegations levelled by AAP against the party's East Delhi candidate Gautam Gambhir by calling them "baseless". Atishi, Gambhir's AAP counterpart for the controversy, had broken down while holding the press conference where she alleged that Gambhir had circulated a pamphlet intended to insult her. The purported pamphlet, shared on Twitter, contains several insults pinpointed to Atishi. "It is very much possible that these people (of AAP) circulated or got this distributed by themselves," Khurana added. Aam Aadmi Party's East Delhi candidate Atishi held a press conference on Thursday, alleging that her BJP opponent, former cricketer Gautam Gambhir, had circulated pamphlets with derogatory and abusive language intended to demean her. "We would clap for Gambhir when he used to bash opponents with fours and sixes while playing for India but never in our worst dreams had we thought that this man would stoop this low to win an election," party leader Manish Sisodia said. In a press conference today, Congress leader Abhishek Manu Singhvi said the BJP had run out of issues to change the focus towards, and was thus content with spreading disinformation regarding things like Rahul Gandhi's citizenship. He dubbed the party a "Bahut Jhoot Party" and warned that lies, propaganda and canards can "never succeed beyond a very short shelf-life." Sunny Deol, in an interview to News18, mistook Balakot for Kartarpur and said "Prime Minister Narendra Modi has opened a door there (at Balakot)". He had been asked by the interviewer if he felt proud about Narendra Modi's achievements in conducting the Balakot air strike. However, at a later interview to a channel, the actor-turned-politician said he did not know much about India-Pakistan relations or the Balakot air strikes. Speaking at Bankura shortly after Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke at a rally in the same constituency, TMC chief Mamata Banerjee was full of admonishment at everything ranging from the prime minister's rally timings to the noise being made by college students attending her rally. She was particularly vicious at Modi's allegation, at his second rally in Purulia, that her party had exposed the eponymous district to the coal mafia. "Prove that even one of my 42 Lok Sabha candidates have any connection with the coal mafia, and I will cancel the nomination of all 42 of them. But if you fail, you will have to do 100 sit ups," she said to Modi. Keeping the topics of his rally in Haryana's Sirsa limited to the usual ones of Congress' campaign, the NYAY scheme and the Rafale deal, Rahul Gandhi avoided speaking on his father Rajiv Gandhi amidst the back and forth regarding the former prime minister. "Narendra Modi ji, you want to talk on Rajiv Gandhi, but talk on the Rafale deal first," said Rahul, before moving on to farmers' issues once again. Mamata Banerjee-helmed Trinamool Congress, on the birth anniversary of Rabindranath Tagore, uploaded a video slamming BJP chief Amit Shah over his mistake at a Birbhum rally in identifying the birthplace of the poet as Birbhum itself. The clip shows Shah saying Tagore was born in Birbhum on a loop. "They talk of saving Bengali culture! First learn about Bangla and then dream about winning here," the TMC tweeted through its official account. Speaking at his second rally of the day at Bengal's Purulia, Narendra Modi took the "slap" charge further, and said while Mamata Banerjee wants to slap him, he regards her as his elder sister, calls her "Didi" and is willing to accept her slaps as blessings. On Wednesday, Mamata had spoken at a rally on Modi's rule coming as a slap to democracy, which some media outlets had mis-reported as "slap to Modi", Modi said Mamata might have been better off to have slapped those of her aides who had been levying a TTT, a Trinamool Tolabaji Tax from the people of Bengal. The Supreme Court on Thursday dismissed a plea by former BSF constable and Samajwadi Party candidate Tej Bahadur Yadav against the sudden rejection of his nomination from Varanasi Lok Sabha constituency. A bench headed by Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi dismissing the plea said, We dont find any merit to entertain this petition. The Supreme Court on Thursday dismissed the petition against Congress chief Rahul Gandhi, alleging he holds citizenship of two countries, India and Britain. The petitioners had asked that Rahul be banned from contesting in the Lok Sabha election as he is a British citizenship. Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi, hearing the matter, said, "Some company in some form has mentioned Rahul Gandhi as a British citizen, so does he becomes British citizen? Dismissed." Minutes after Congress leader Ahmed Patel decried the attacks on a deceased prime minister, Rajiv Gandhi, who was no longer able to defend himself in the face of abuses, Arun Jaitley turned the table on the Congress for blaming the BJP for Rajiv's death. Patel had said the BJP-supported VK Singh government had de-escalated Rajiv's security and that their "hatred" had killed him. "From December 1990 till May 1991, when Shri Rajiv Gandhi was assassinated, the Congress party supported Chandra Shekhar government was in power," Jaitley wrote on Twitter, pointing out that the Congress had at times chosen to blame the DMK for this death and has now decided to focus on the BJP out of compulsion. The tussle over Rajiv Gandhi and the extent of his culpability for events that transpired three decades ago has well and truly risen to a crescendo. While the BJP has concentrated the attack first made by prime minister Narendra Modi on Saturday, the Congress has expressed its unveiled anger at slams made on a prime minister who is no longer alive to defend himself. Meanwhile, Opposition leaders like Omar Abdullah questioned why the BJP would seek to rake up an issue as old as Rajiv's alleged corruption. At his Bankura rally, Narendra Modi accused Mamata Banerjee of a host of charges, including keeping worshippers of Ram and Saraswati in constant fear. Modi, significantly, made no bones about attempting to harness the local populace's trust by switching between Bengali and Hindi throughout his speech. Speaking at his first rally of the day in West Bengal's Bankura, Narendra Modi lost no time in coining two new campaign phrases, "chup chap kamal chhap" and "booth booth se TMC saaf". He struck at Mamata Banerjee and her government, alleging that she cared not about the people of Bengal but about her own family and its wealth. Modi also alleged that while Mamata allegedly feels pride on behalf of Pakistam prime minister Imran Khan, she was "too proud" to take his call when he made one after the cyclone (Fani). Modi alleged that Mamata had also turned down the central government's requests for meetings on relief. Striking back at the Narendra Modi-led attack on late prime minister Rajiv Gandhi on behalf of the Congress on Thursday, Ahmed Patel labelled the abuse levelled at a person who was no longer able to reply to it as an "act of ultimate cowardice." Patel also said the BJP-backed VP Singh government which had allegedly refused to provide Rajiv with additional security in the charged 1991 atmosphere and had "left him with one personal security officer" despite credible intelligence inputs and repeated requests, was responsible for killing him. With only two phases of the 2019 Lok Sabha election remaining to go, back and forth between the Bharatiya Janata Party and Opposition parties has reached a crescendo with little effort at courtesy on either side. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to address rallies in West Bengal and Uttar Pradesh today (9 May), a day after making charged speeches targeting the Gandhi family and also alleging that the Congress had insulted him in several ways through the years. In Bengal, he can be expected to direct the vitriol at chief minister and Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee at his public meetings in Bankura (10 am) and Purulia (11.40 am). In Uttar Pradesh, the prime minister is likely to once again barrel into the past of Rajiv Gandhi, at rallies in Azamgarh (3.10 pm), Jaunpur (4.45 pm) and finally, Prayagraj (6.40 pm). Congress president Rahul Gandhi is poised to reply to the prime minister's charges at his scheduled rallies at Sirsa in Haryana, Sagar in Madhya Pradesh and Ramlila Maidan in Delhi. The last venue is where Modi accused the Gandhi family of using INS Viraat as a "personal taxi" for 10 days when his family and his in-laws took a vacation, thereby allegedly compromising national security. The Supreme Court will, on Thursday, hear the petition to keep Rahul Gandhi from contesting polls and becoming a Member of Parliament in the future over having allegedly acquired British citizenship. On 1 May, the home ministry sent Rahul a notice seeking a response to charges that he held British citizenship. Like on Wednesday, when their Delhi campaigns nearly coincided, Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra will be at Jaunpur at around the same time as Modi. She will also hold rallies at Uttar Pradesh's Pratapgarh and Sultanpur. Priyanka on Wednesday accused Modi of blaming the Nehru-Gandhi family for his own failures, alleging that he was like a "schoolboy who failed to do his homework" and his excuses are "Pandit Nehru has taken away his answer-sheet and Indira Gandhi has made a paper boat out of that." Meanwhile, Mamata Banerjee and Andhra Pradesh chief minister Chandrababu Naidu (who on Wednesday met Rahul at his residence) are expected to meet in the afternoon, at Bengal's Kharagpur on Thursday. Polling is already completed in more than half of the seats. The Lok Sabha election which began on 11 April will end on 19 May after polling in seven phases. The votes will be counted on 23 May and results will be announced thereafter. India is in the midst of electing its 17th Lok Sabha. Polling is already completed in more than half of the seats. The Lok Sabha election which began on 11 April will end on 19 May after polling in seven phases. The votes will be counted on 23 May and results will be announced thereafter. At least, 900 million voters will exercise their franchise this time, making it the world's biggest elections till date. Conducting an election in an ethnically and geographically diverse country like India is a herculean task, requiring extensive preparations to keep the electoral processes up and running. Articles 324 to 329 in the Indian Constitution deal with the electoral system in India. The Constitution bestows the Parliament with the power to create laws dealing with elections to the Parliament and state Assemblies. The Representation of the People Act, 1951 serves the backbone of the entire electoral process in India. The Act, enacted by the Provisional Parliament ahead of the elections to the First Lok Sabha, lays down the provisions for the actual conduct of the elections across India. Apart from providing the framework for the electoral process. While complementing the provisions of the Representation of the People Act, 1950, the Act also deals with qualification and the disqualification criteria for lawmakers. The Act is divided into 13 parts. Lays down provisions for disqualifying lawmakers Part II of the Act lays down the qualifications for membership of the Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha, Vidhan Sabha and Vidhan Parishad. The Act also lays down the qualifications for the membership of the Sikkim Legislative Assembly, which reserves some seats for Buddhist Sanghas and the Bhutia-Lepcha community. Section 8 of the Act deals with disqualification of members for various offences. These offences include violation of laws in the Indian Penal Code regarding communal harmony, rape, and cruelty towards wife, preaching or promoting untouchability, importing or exporting prohibited goods, holding membership of an association banned under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967. In addition, violation of laws such as Foreign Exchange (Regulation) Act, 1973, the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act,1985 , the Terrorism and Disruptive Activities Act, 1987, The Religious Institutions (Prevention of Misuse) Act, 1988, The Places of Worship (Special Provisions) Act, 1991, Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971, Commission of Sati (Prevention) Act, 1987, Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988, Prevention of Terrorism Act, 2002, hoarding or profiteering, adulteration of foods, and the Dowry Prohibition Act, 1961 can also be the cause for disqualification. According to Section 8 of the Act, any lawmaker sentenced to at least two-year imprisonment will be disqualified. Moreover, a lawmaker will not be able to contest any election for six years after being released from the jail. For instance, AIADMK leader VK Sasikala will complete her four-year jail term in 2021 but she will not be able to contest elections till 2027. Notably, in 2013, the Supreme Court ruled that an MP or MLA will be disqualified from the date of his or her conviction itself. The ruling also declared Section 8(4), which provided a three-month period getting a stay on the conviction and sentence, as unconstitutional. Moreover, the apex court also ruled that any person in jail or police custody cannot contest an election. However, the Centre passed an amendment to the Act nullifying this part of the ruling. Holding an office of profit while being a member of the Parliament could lead to disqualification as an MP or MLA. While there is no clear definition of what constitutes office of profit, PRS states it as a position that brings to the office-holder some financial gain, or advantage, or benefit. However, several amendments to the Parliament (Prevention of Disqualification) Act, 1959 have broadened the exemption list. As per Section 10A of the Act, the failure to disclose election expenses could also lead to disqualification. It was under this provision that former Madhya Pradesh minister Narottam Mishra was disqualified for a period of three years. Framework for the actual conduct of polls Part III of the Act focuses on the notification of general elections to the Lok Sabha and Vidhan Sabha of the states, along with biennial elections to the Rajya Sabha and Vidhan Parishad. Part IV is certainly the most crucial aspect of the Act since it deals with the administrative machinery required for the smooth conduct of elections. It allows the Election Commission, in consultation with the state government, to designate Returning Officers and Assistant Returning Officers for each Assembly or Parliamentary Constituency. It also lays down the role and duties of the Chief Electoral Officer, District Election Officer, Presiding Officer and the Observers. Part V of the Act focuses on the functioning of the electoral process. Among several other aspects of an election, Part V of the Act deals with the nomination process, withdrawal or scrutiny of candidature, appointment of election agents, as well as the final counting of votes. Part VI deals with electoral disputes and the legal process involved in resolving them. Part VII, in effect, serves as the framework for the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) during the election season. While many aspects of the MCC are not legally enforceable, those which can be enforced legally derive their power through Section 123, Section 123(3A) and Section 133 of the Act. Act deals with registration of political parties, funding Part IVA of the Representation of the People Act, 1951 deals with the registration of political parties, providing the guidelines for anyone in India to register their political party with the Election Commission of India. Moreover, Part IVA focuses on the funding of political parties in India. An amendment made in 2003 to the Act inserted Section 29 B and 29 C. According to Section 29B, political parties may accept contributions of any amount from any person or company except a government company or foreign source. On the other hand, Section 29C requires every political party to submit a report on contributions above 20,000 from individuals and companies to the Election Commission before the income tax returns are filed. This particular section was recently amended by the NDA government, allowing political parties to not report any donation received through electoral bonds. BJP chief Amit Shah Wednesday said Prime Minister Narendra Modi will get re-elected for a second term after the Lok Sabha polls as he has blessings of the people of the country. Ujjain: BJP chief Amit Shah Wednesday said Prime Minister Narendra Modi will get re-elected for a second term after the Lok Sabha polls as he has blessings of the people of the country. Shah said wherever he goes in the country, he hears the chants of "Modi, Modi". "I have visited the whole of India during the Lok Sabha electioneering and wherever I went Modi, Modi chants rented the air. "This is not just a slogan but the manifestation of 125 crore people's blessings for Modi," he told an election rally here. "Narendra Modiji is going to become the prime minister again on 23 May, the date the result of the general election will be announced," he added. Showering praises on Modi, Shah claimed the prime minister is a workaholic, "who has not taken even a single day's leave in the last 20 years". Modiji works for 18 hours daily, he said, adding that in contrast, Congress chief Rahul Gandhi dashes off to foreign destinations when the mercury shoots up in the summer. His party and his mother then look for him, the BJP chief said, taking potshots at Rahul. He asked people to vote for Modi "as the country was safe in his hands". "During the previous regime of Sonia-Manmohan, our jawans were slaughtered and their heads were taken away. But the previous UPA government kept mum," he said. However, things have changed under the Modi government, Shah said. He said after the Pulwama terror attack, in which 40 CRPF men attained martyrdom, Pakistan, fearing a surgical strike, increased vigil at the border. But Modi gave a free hand to the Indian Air Force, and our jawans bombed a terror camp at Balakot in Pakistan and blew away terrorists, he said. Photo: CTV News The provincial government's lead money laundering investigator warns a lack of dedicated port police in Canada is allowing stolen vehicles to slip out of the country. In one of his reports on money laundering and organized crime, Peter German says those stolen luxury cars can fetch very high prices in Asia. CTV News reports just three border guards are tasked to oversee 100,000 export files a year. Since the Ports Canada Police were disbanded in 1997, its been up to local police to patrol ports a stark contrast to the Port of Seattle Police Department with 150 officers. "In the post 9/11 world this is a serious gap in our law enforcement umbrella," German wrote. Germans report chronicled schemes where luxury vehicles are disguised on their way out of Canada, like 30 vehicles found in shipping containers behind mattresses in Montreal in 2014. A Ferrari on its way to Hong Kong was described as used fitness equipment. Three stolen cars were found in a container at the Port of Vancouver in January, with another eight seized in 2018. -with files from CTV Vancouver Political discourse usually stoops to many levels during elections when stakes are high. The latest affront over former prime minister Rajiv Gandhi has both the national parties Indian National Congress and the Bharatiya Janata Party going at each other's throats. Political discourse usually stoops to many levels during elections when stakes are high. Lok Sabha election 2019, currently underway, is no different. The latest affront over former prime minister Rajiv Gandhi has both the national parties Indian National Congress and the Bharatiya Janata Party going at each other's throats. Five out of seven phases of Lok Sabha elections are over, and with two phases remaining to go, politicians are not pulling any punches as campaign debates get hotter and messier. The latest diatribe by Modi, which has drawn extreme criticism, was after his rally in Uttar Pradesh's Pratapgarh. "Your father was termed 'Mr Clean' by his courtiers, but his life ended as 'Bhrashtachari No 1' (corrupt number 1)," Modi had said. Senior Congress leader Ahmed Patel, National Conference leader Omar Abdullah, Maharashtra Navnirman Sena chief Raj Thackeray and several other Opposition leaders reacted to the comment, saying that it was inappropriate of the prime minister to make such statements about a deceased predecessor, who had been assassinated by terrorists. Patel slammed the ruling party and the prime minister for raking an issue about a person who is "no longer here amongst us to answer the baseless allegations." Taking to Twitter, Patel on Thursday said, "Rajiv ji lost his life due to their hatred & is no longer here amongst us to answer the baseless allegations & abuses which are being unleashed on him. (sic)" Abusing a martyred Prime Minster is the sign of ultimate cowardice But who is responsible for his assassination ? The BJP backed VP Singh govt refused to provide him with additional security & left him with one PSO despite credible intelligence inputs and repeated requests Ahmed Patel (@ahmedpatel) May 9, 2019 Rajiv ji lost his life due to their hatred & is no longer here amongst us to answer the baseless allegations & abuses which are being unleashed on him Ahmed Patel (@ahmedpatel) May 9, 2019 Following Modi's remark, a delegation of senior Congress leaders including Abhishek Manu Singhvi, Rajiv Shukla, and Salman Khurshid met officials of the Election Commission and apprised the poll body of their objection over the prime minister's statement. The electoral body, however, gave a clean chit to Modi on 7 May. "The speech mentioned in this complaint has been examined with a view to identifying instances of violation of the Model Code of Conduct. Prima facie, we did not figure out any literal violation of MCC as given in the Election Commission of India instructions. The case is, therefore, disposed of," the Election Commission said. Meanwhile, Karnataka chief minister HD Kumaraswamy tweeted: PM @narendramodi's comments against former PM #RajivGandhi are not only despicable and highly condemnable, but also reflect the PM's state of mind. Fear and frustration have taken over his judgement.#ShameOnPMModi @INCIndia @INCKarnataka https://t.co/q5UWaoAHkU H D Kumaraswamy (@hd_kumaraswamy) May 5, 2019 Most Congress leaders tweeted out their "disgust" after party president Rahul Gandhi tweeted out: Modi Ji, The battle is over. Your Karma awaits you. Projecting your inner beliefs about yourself onto my father wont protect you. All my love and a huge hug. Rahul Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) May 5, 2019 Congress general secretary and Karnataka party in-charge KC Venugopal also blasted Modi. "Prime Minister is desperately trying to spread untruths about one of the most respectable political figures India ever had due to frustration and fear for losing the election," said Venugopal in a tweet. CLICK HERE FOR LIVE UPDATES ON LOK SABHA ELECTION 2019 Lamenting that no prime minister had hit such a low, Venugopal said Modi's comments were disgusting and the nation would not tolerate them. "Spreading lies and character assassination of political opponents even after their supreme sacrifice for the nation is a new low in the political discourse of the country. No Prime Minister in the country have ever stooped such a low for cheap political gain," Venugopal was quoted as saying in a statement later. One young man from Amethi, in fact, wrote a letter with his blood allegedly, seeking a directive for Prime Minister Narendra Modi to abstain from making objectionable comments that hurt the sentiments of the people. The letter was addressed to the Election Commission. According to IANS, Manoj Kashyap of Shahgarh in Amethi wrote that he was 'traumatised' by the statements of Modi against late Rajiv Gandhi. He wrote that the former prime minister lowered the voting age to 18 years, implemented the Panchayati Raj system and brought in the computer revolution in the country. "Former Prime Minister late Atal Bihari Vajpayee had also praised Rajiv Gandhi in an article," he pointed out. He further wrote that for the people of Amethi anyone who insults Rajiv Gandhi is akin to those who assassinated him. Kashyap wrote that Rajiv Gandhi lives on in the hearts of the people of Amethi and also the country and the Prime Minister must be directed not to make such remarks against the late leader. However, BJP's ally Shiv Sena defended the prime minister and said that Modi has only 'given it back' to Rahul for his 'karma' as he had insulted Veer Savarkar. "Rajiv Gandhi was killed in an attack by the Tamil militants and all were saddened that Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi's father left them... Before his entry into politics, Rajiv Gandhi did nothing great for the nation, hence a term like 'sacrifice' doesn't suit him," the party said. Comparing Rajiv Gandhi to the freedom fighter, Sena wrote in its editorial mouthpiece Saamna, "He (Rajiv) became prime minister after Indira Gandhi was brutally murdered and later on his politics and life also ended in a sad manner. But such was not the case with Veer Savarkar, who at the age of 14 years pledged in front of the Almighty to get independence for his nation and fight British till his last breath... The killing of Rajiv Gandhi was unfortunate but Savarkar's sacrifice is always inspiring." Interestingly, Karnataka BJP leader V Srinivasa Prasad also slammed Modi for labelling corruption allegations against Rajiv Gandhi and said that the prime minister should have not have dragged his name. "Allegations against him (Rajiv) in the Bofors scam are not acceptable. Modi should not have spoken like that against him. It was unnecessary to take his name," said Prasad, who is six-time MP and former Karnataka state minister. "I have lots of respect for Modi but even the tallest of leaders like Vajpayee said many good things about Rajiv Gandhi. I have myself seen him take big responsibilities at a small age," Prasad said. But Modi didn't stop at calling Rajiv Gandhi corrupt. After courting controversy over remarks made at the Uttar Pradesh rally, the prime minister challenged the Congress to fight the remaining phases of the election on the issue of Rajiv Gandhi's self-respect. "I challenge the Congress party, its president, his family and associates to fight the remaining two phases of the elections on the issue of respect of the former prime minister who faced serious charges of corruption," Modi had said at an election rally in Jharkhand earlier this week. On Wednesday, Modi accused Rajiv Gandhi of using aircraft carrier INS Viraat and its personnel for vacations with his "foreigner in-laws". The prime minister raked up the issue again at a rally in New Delhi's Ramlila Maidan to counter the attack by Congress leaders who said that defence forces have been politicised by the BJP, citing remarks by BJP leaders that "Modi ki sena" had carried out air strikes on a terror camp in Pakistan. "Who has been treating the forces as personal property? ... have you ever heard that a family goes for a holiday on a warship? This has happened in our country. The 'naamdar' family used INS Viraat as its personal property. They insulted it." INS Viraat was withdrawn from its place of deployment and sent to fetch the in-laws of Rajiv Gandhi before it was taken to an island where nobody was there to welcome them and all arrangements for them were made by the personnel of the aircraft carrier, Modi alleged. The holiday continued not for one day, but for 10 days during which the warship remained stationed there, he said, indicating that the war of words over the deceased Congress leader is far from over for BJP. Tej Bahadur Yadav had filed his nomination papers on 29 April from Varanasi, but the RO rejected his nomination on 1 May on the ground that he was dismissed from government service on 19 April, 2017. The Supreme Court on Thursday dismissed the plea of former BSF constable and Samajwadi Party (SP) candidate Tej Bahadur Yadav challenging the rejection of his nomination from Varanasi parliamentary constituency. "We dont find any merit to entertain this petition," said a bench headed by Chief Justice of India (CJI) Rajan Gogoi. Supreme Court dismisses plea of former BSF constable & SP candidate Tej Bahadur Yadav (in file pic)against rejection of his nomination from Varanasi LS constituency. A Bench headed by CJI Gogoi dismissing the plea said, We dont find any merit to entertain this petition pic.twitter.com/SjusLxv5ZC ANI (@ANI) May 9, 2019 Advocate Prashant Bhushan, appearing for Yadav, said, as per earlier verdict of the apex court, the election petition can be filed during enforcement of the Model Code of Conduct. Senior advocate Rakesh Dwivedi, appearing for the Election Commission, also referred to various apex court judgments and said election petitions can only be filed after polls are over as it would vitiate the electoral process. At the fag end of the hearing, Bhushan sought liberty from the court to file an election petition after polling is over. "We have done what we could have done. We find no grounds to entertain this petition," the court said. On Wednesday, the apex court had asked the Election Commission of India (ECI) to examine Yadav's plea challenging the rejection of his nomination. The court told the poll watchdog to revert by Thursday with an explanation and reasons for rejecting his candidature from Varanasi in the ensuing general election. The former BSF jawan had challenged the decision of the Returning Officer to reject his nomination from Varanasi constituency, from where Prime Minister Narendra Modi is seeking re-election. Yadav had filed his nomination papers on 29 April, but the Returning Officer rejected his nomination on 1 May on the ground that he was dismissed from government service on 19 April, 2017, and there was no five-year gap from the date of his dismissal till the date of his nomination. According to the Returning Officer, this was not in keeping with the terms of Section 9 of the Representation of the People Act 1951. While dismissing his nomination, the Returning Officer also observed that his nomination papers did not include a certificate deemed mandatory by the poll panel for people dismissed from government service. The certificate should state that the said person was not dismissed from service for "corruption or disloyalty to the State". In his reply to RO's first notice of 29 April, Yadav had submitted that he was dismissed from BSF due to "indiscipline which is not covered under the election law and hence, a certificate from EC to that effect was not required," NDTV reported. BSF dismissed Yadav from service in 2017 allegedly for making false complaints about the quality of food served to soldiers on duty. With inputs from PTI In Pratapgarh, Priyanka Gandhi claimed that Narendra Modi had failed to answer people's questions on his 'unfulfilled' promises about generating two crore jobs and doubling farmers' income. Pratapgarh/Jaunpur: Stepping up her attack on Narendra Modi, Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Thursday said she had never seen "a more cowardly and weak" prime minister than him. "I have not seen a more cowardly and weak prime minister than him (Modi) in my life," she told at an election meeting in Pratapgarh, a day after Modi fired yet another salvo targeting her father and former prime minister Rajiv Gandhi, accusing him of using warship INS Viraat as a "personal taxi" for a family holiday. Priyanka claimed that Modi had failed to answer people's questions on his "unfulfilled" promises about generating two crore jobs and doubling farmers' income. "The power of politics does not come from big campaigns and television shows. People are the biggest in democracy. One should have the power to listen and redress people's problems. He (Modi) should have the power to listen to the Opposition. Leave aside listening to you, this prime minister does know how to reply to you," she said. "You have been cheated. He (Modi) had promised to check corruption, but now who has been exposed as corrupt?.... He hides the reality with his campaigns. If Modi comes to you, you should tell him that in Amethi, a lady got a Rs-35,000 electricity bill despite having no power connection, while another person showed a bill of Rs 50,000," the Congress general secretary in-charge of eastern Uttar Pradesh said. She claimed that loans of big industrialists were waived, "but when (Congress chief) Rahul (Gandhi) asked for farm loan waiver, he was told there was no money". Priyanka also claimed that farmers' insurance money was never paid to them and they were battling the stray cattle menace. "If the prime minister is so powerful, he should say why he could not solve your problems. In every speech, he mentions Pakistan, but he should also tell you what his government has done and will do in the next five years. We are here due to you people and you have made us leaders. People are bigger, not us," she said. The Congress leader alleged that when thousand of farmers from all over the country had gathered in Delhi and sought "a five-minute appointment from the prime minister, he did not give them time". "In his (Modi's) constituency, Varanasi, in the last five years, he could not even spare five minutes to visit the people in the villages, ask them how they are and what are their problems," she said. Polling for the ongoing Lok Sabha election will be held in 14 seats of Uttar Pradesh, including Pratapgarh and Jaunpur, in the sixth phase on 12 May and the results will be announced on 23 May. The war of words between the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Congress has turned shriller with Modi raising the issue of alleged corruption during the tenure of Rajiv Gandhi as prime minister, saying his life had ended as "bhrashtachari number 1" (corrupt number one). At a rally in Delhi on Wednesday, Modi said, "INS Viraat was insulted by using it as a personal taxi. This happened when Rajiv Gandhi and his family was out for a 10-day vacation." The Congress hit back, accusing Modi of spreading lies about its late leader, who was the prime minister over 30 years ago, as he could see his "imminent defeat" in the ongoing polls. Later, addressing a rally at Jaunpur, Priyanka alleged that under the current BJP-led government, those who asked for their rights were termed as "traitors". "The prime minister has not uttered a word on the SC/ST Act. At Amethi, BJP men beat up two persons to prevent them from casting their votes. The prime minister does not have the courage to talk about your problems," she said at Badlapur, about 40 kilometres from the Jaunpur district headquarters. The Congress leader said political power came from hearing the grievances of the public and redressing them, listening to criticism and also from lending an ear to rival parties. "But this prime minister neither listens nor gives answers to your problems," she said, adding that the people of the country were deceived by the Modi government. Priyanka wrapped up her day-long visit with a roadshow in Sultanpur, where people lined up on both sides of the road and perched atop rooftops and trees to catch a glimpse of her. She was garlanded by Congress workers and supporters who put up welcome arches all along the three-km route of her roadshow and shouted slogans welcoming her. Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Wednesday attacked Congress over its claim of six surgical strikes having been conducted during the UPA rule, saying an RTI has revealed that first such operation was carried out in 2016 during the prime ministership of Narendra Modi.'According to an RTI, the first surgical strike happened in 2016,' he said, addressing a rally. Gurugram: Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Wednesday attacked Congress over its claim of six surgical strikes having been conducted during the UPA rule, saying an RTI has revealed that first such operation was carried out in 2016 during the prime ministership of Narendra Modi."According to an RTI, the first surgical strike happened in 2016," he said, addressing a rally. "Congress said that they also did surgical strikes. Who stopped you from announcing these. Do you feel ashamed of praising the armed forces? Why you did not tell this to the people of India. Is the government not answerable?" the BJP leader said. Earlier this month, Congress leader Rajiv Shukla had claimed that six surgical strikes were conducted during former prime minister Manmohan Singh's tenure from 2004 to 2014. Singh also slammed Congress over its poll promise to scrap the sedition law, saying, "The party wants to remove the statute to please a few people". "Congress says that the sedition law is irrelevant and bad but you people tell me that if someone is involved in such practices, should they be spared? They are doing this to favour a few people. I want to assure you that if we come back to power, we would make this law so strong that no such person can be spared," he said. The party, in its manifesto, has made the poll promise to scrap the sedition law and also strike down certain provisions of the Armed Forces Special Power Act (AFSPA) if voted to power. On the achievements of the NDA government, Singh said, "The Pradhan Mantri Aawas Yojna (PMAY) was launched by Congress. During its rule from 2008-2014, they gave 25 lakh houses to the people while our government from 2014-2018 handed over 1.30 crore houses to the public." The BJP-led government in its five-year tenure provided 13.5 crore gas connection as compared to a total of 12 crore such connections by the previous government, the Home Minister said. Singh said, "During the tenure of the previous governments, everyone and anyone could threaten us. It is India's culture that we have never attacked anybody in the first go and we never occupied even a single inch land belonging to any other country but it is not our cowardice. We will not trouble anyone but if someone troubles us we will not leave them either," Singh said. Referring to the Pulwama attack, he said, "We all know what Pakistan did in Pulwama. The prime minister held a meeting immediately after the incident, took a decision and gave relevant orders following which you saw our Air Force striking terrorists deep into Pakistani territory." "Congress and other opposition parties want to know how many terrorists were killed. I want to ask do make forces count bodies," he said. "Being the home minister of the country, I want to say the intelligence department is under me only. I want to assure you that whatever operation happened it was based on credible intelligence input," Singh said "They say that the security forces killed, then why the credit is going to the prime minister. I am asking that when Indira Gandhi in 1971 divided Pakistan into two halves and Bangladesh was formed, Atal Bihari Vajyapee as an opposition member of Parliament lauded Indira Gandhi. This should be the attitude of the opposition," he said. "If Indira Gandhi can be praised, then why Modi cannot be hailed for the post-Pulwama operation," he added. Subramanian Swamy had alleged that Rahul Gandhi's nationality was registered as 'British' in the annual returns of a firm registered in the United Kingdom. In a relief for Congress president Rahul Gandhi, the Supreme Court on Thursday dismissed a petition seeking to direct the Election Commission to debar him from contesting the Lok Sabha election for "voluntarily acquiring British nationality". "We cannot rely on a paper note to call Rahul a British national," the apex court said, dismissing the plea over Rahul's citizenship. The petition had sought to keep Rahul from contesting the polls and becoming an MP in future for allegedly acquiring British citizenship. On 1 May, the Ministry of Home Affairs had sent Rahul a notice, seeking his response to a complaint filed by BJP leader Subramanian Swamy in 2017. Swamy had alleged that Rahul's nationality was registered as "British" in the annual returns of a firm registered in the United Kingdom. When the allegations were first made, the Congress had made public the firm's certificate of incorporation, which showed that Rahul's nationality was registered as Indian. Swamy's had made the complaint on the basis of an entry Rahul made while filing his annual tax returns. It was later clarified that the British reference was an inadvertent error. Moreover, Rahul's contenders from Amethi had also sought to have his nomination cancelled, making the same allegations. The Returning Officer, however, had declared his nomination papers valid and dismissed the complaints. Reuters Thanks to attractive cash incentives offered as Uber lured drivers in one of its biggest markets outside the United States, Raut's monthly earnings jumped to $1,280. He managed his car loan and home rent with ease, and sent more money than before back to his family in a village in eastern India. But as Uber slashed incentives, Raut's earnings dwindled swiftly. His income dropped to about $540 a month this year and he defaulted on his taxi loan payments. Deciding after an accident that he couldn't afford to fix the vehicle, he quit Uber and now his monthly income, from a new job driving a truck, has crashed to $200. "There is no benefit in driving for Uber ... my life was much better just as a cook," said 26-year-old Raut. Former Uber India executives say incentives were sharply cut in early 2017 because of growing pressure from the U.S. head office to improve financial performance ahead of an initial public offering (IPO), which values it at as much as $90 billion. Uber is set to debut on Friday on Wall Street. In interviews in the metropolises of Mumbai, New Delhi and Bengaluru, more than 35 drivers said discontent against Uber was growing. Mounting debt from taxi loans was a key concern. Many drivers took loans to buy cabs, while some leased cars from the companies themselves. To be sure, many drivers from Uber are still earning more than they could get in other blue-collar jobs in India. The national minimum wage in India is only about $2.50 a day. "It's not that we are making a fortune, but it does give us a livelihood," said Prakash K.C., who earns around 38,000 rupees ($548) a month driving an Uber in Bengaluru city. Uber has acknowledged the risk of unhappiness among its drivers. "As we aim to reduce driver incentives to improve our financial performance, we expect driver dissatisfaction will generally increase," it said in its IPO filing. Doublung Down on India Uber currently operates in 40 Indian cities and the country accounts for an estimated 11 percent of its global rides. Uber said last year it would double down on India investments after it sold its Southeast Asia business to Singapore's Grab Holdings. Grab does not operate taxis in India. Uber started its India operations in 2013, three years after local rival Ola launched a ride-hailing service. Both are backed by Japan's Softbank Group Corp. Ola, which operates in 125 cities in India, last year said it plans to go public in four years. Both gave attractive cash incentives to drivers and offered very low fares to riders when they started operations. It wasn't uncommon for Uber drivers to boast of monthly earnings of 100,000 rupees, which is the typical salary of a junior multinational executive in the country. There were perks too. In a January 2017 company video, Uber drivers are seen entering a luxury hotel in Chandigarh city, where guards open their taxi doors and welcome them. Sitting and smiling with their families in a large hall with chandeliers, some of the drivers receive prizes such as an Apple iPhone, holiday package and a car. In early 2017, the company slashed incentives by around 30 percent overnight, said three former Uber India executives, who declined to be named. The total incentive cut in recent years may well be far higher: research firm RedSeer Consulting estimates online taxi operators driver incentives, as a percentage of gross booking totals, fell from 60 percent in 2015 to 18 percent last year. That came at a time when prices of diesel, used in many taxis in India, surged by about 30 percent. One of the former Uber executives told Reuters the company should have taken more care as drivers were its most important stakeholder. The decision to cut incentives sharply had disappointed several members of Uber's India team back then, the executive added. Lower Incentives Last October, hundreds of drivers went on strike in Mumbai and New Delhi, demanding higher fares to meet rising fuel costs. Drivers say they ended the strike as taxi firms assured some fare concessions, but more needs to be done. Some Uber drivers in the United States and Britain have called for a strike on Wednesday in protest against what they call low pay. An Uber spokesman told Reuters drivers were at the heart of its service and the company was committed to ensuring drivers get sustainable earnings, even though some were making less than they did three years ago. "Uber continues to invest heavily in the well being of drivers and their families," the spokesman said, adding it was helping them access life and health insurance, as well as loans. Ola did not respond to a request for comment. To mark its IPO, Uber says it plans to pay $300 million to more than 1.1 million drivers, a so-called "appreciation reward". Qualified drivers in the United States, Uber said in its filing, will get $100 to $10,000 based on trips taken. The Uber spokesman said thousands of drivers in India earned the reward, but did not provide an exact number. A driver in New Delhi showed his Uber app that said he had received an $84 reward, while another in the city, Arvind Kumar, received $165. "There are a lot of troubles, this amount is nothing ... all my dreams are broken," said Kumar, who earns half the $1,432 per month he made five years ago. He said the drop in earnings had scuttled plans to provide his children with private-school education. Shubham Agarwal Im sure weve all envied characters from sci-fi flicks who have a virtual assistant to do things for them. Its always around waiting for your command and demands nearly zero physical effort from you. Its the ultimate dream one that often surfaces whenever theres the talk of a more contextually aware ecosystem of gadgets. A glimpse of a world inspired by these plots has already begun to appear in fits and starts with all-screen, foldable phones, smart homes, and more. Google, the company many might believe is the only one today capable of accomplishing the goal, has been making remarkable headway on that front. And at its annual developer conference for 2019, it made that even more clear by pushing the boundaries of what the Google Assistant can do, fundamentally rethinking how we operate our phones. The company announced a series of groundbreaking advancements which, above all, inch us closer to replacing touch-based input with voice. The voice assistants we have at our disposals today are far from the ones weve been fed in movies. Arguably their biggest obstacle is the number of barriers you have to go through in order to perform a task as simple as adding a new to-do. Youve to invoke it with the custom phrase, speak in the language it understands, wait for a response, confirm the details, review them, and you finally have updated your to-do list. Tackling the issues hindering voice assistants progress today The most obvious reason behind these heaps of steps is to hide the latency. Even though processors and your internet connection have come a long way, theyre still far from what you would need for an entirely hands-free experience. Therefore, the foremost job Google had to take care of is to reduce that lag to a point its almost non-existent. And it did just that. What if we could bring the AI that powers the assistant right onto your phone. What if the assistant was so fast at processing your voice that tapping to operate your phone would almost feel slow. It opens up many new use cases., said Scott Hoffman, VP of Engineering, Google while speaking at the keynote. At I/O 2019, Google claimed after years of effort, it has managed to shrink down the AI models responsible for predicting your actions from a 100 GB to a mere 0.5 GB. Thanks to this, Google Assistant will soon be able to compute all your queries locally itself instead of going back and forth between your phone and Googles servers. So fast, you might've missed it. Running on-device, the next generation Google Assistant makes it easier to multitask across appsso things like looking up answers, and finding and sharing a photo are faster than ever. #io19 pic.twitter.com/qXwIMbFIz5 Google (@Google) May 7, 2019 The results are impressive as well and Google says these developments enable the Assistant to revert ten times quicker. The demos Google walked us through did look promising and showed the Assistant transitioning between actions in a matter of seconds. (Also Read- Google I/O 2019: Google presents its plan to safeguard privacy in an AI-first future) "By moving these powerful AI models right onto to your phone, we are envisioning a paradigm shift. This next-gen assistant will let you instantly operate your phone with your voice, multi-task across apps, and complete complex actions, all with nearly zero latency., added Hoffman. Building the next-gen assistant With this predicament out of the way, Google is now building what it calls the next-gen Assistant. Once its rolled out, you will speak to the Assistant without any friction. In addition, Google will be plugging the Assistants arms into much deeper levels of Android letting you effortlessly ask it to execute in-app actions an approach similar to what Samsung offers with Bixby. Plus, the next-gen Assistant will be always on the lookout for possible actions and allow you to continuously command it. So for instance, if a text message arrives, you can simply say Reply lets meet tomorrow and Assistant will instantly send it. You wont have to wake it up first, nor tap the notification first or touch your phone at all for that matter. (Also Read- Google I/O 2019: All you need to know about the new features coming to Android Q) The other, key piece of the puzzle in Googles quest to turn voice as your primary means of interaction is Duplex On The Web. Last year, the company demonstrated how it will soon be possible for you to ask the Assistant to book appointments by actually calling the business. It was a revolutionary move and despite speculations, Google did successfully ship it to a handful of regions in the United States. This time, Google took it to the next level and extended Duplex to tasks on the web. What that means is, in the near future, Assistant will be able to handle bookings on the internet for you. In a demo, Google previewed the Assistant crawling through a bunch of web pages and automatically feeding in the form fields on a car rental website. While you can obviously tell it the specifics, Assistant will be smart enough to browse your emails and calendar for the dates, your preferences, whether you need a baby seat, you get the idea. All you will have to do is ask. Ambient computing: closer than you think The idea of ambient computing and an environment where your devices figure out what you want to perform actions on their own has been around for a while. Its often called a pipedream and to an extent, that is true. For a robot-operated lifestyle, a lot of factors need to fall in the right place together. But unlike a couple of years ago, it doesnt seem all that far-fetched anymore. Google accentuated that even further at I/O 2019. Its voice assistant has grown dramatically more intelligent over just the past year. Pair that with how much Googles algorithms know about you and you should be able to imagine a future the company is promising. Of course, as far as touch-based input is concerned, its not going anywhere soon. You wont be talking to the Assistant to use your phone at least for a couple of years. And even when Google widely rolls out its so-called next-gen Assistant, you surely wont be employing it out in the open. There are only a bunch of scenarios where I can see people operating their phones with voice. But thats not quite the point. These advancements can be considered stepping stones for a world where products like the Google Assistant will truly act as a real assistant to you. For now, though, you will make do with the voice assistant available on your phone today and wait a little longer for the ones people have in sci-fi movies. The author is a freelance technology journalist from Ahmedabad. He tweets from @phonesoldier Photo: CTV News A Toronto man who murdered his wife two days after she filed for divorce has been sentenced to life in prison with no chance of parole for 14 years. Neurosurgeon Mohammed Shamji, 43, pleaded guilty last month to second-degree murder in the death of 40-year-old Elana Fric Shamji, a well-respected family doctor. Justice John McMahon says the case is yet another tragic instance of domestic homicide that he sees far too often. Court heard Fric Shamji served her husband with divorce papers two days before he attacked her, broke her neck and ribs, and choked her to death as their three children slept nearby. Her mother told court at a sentencing hearing yesterday that Shamji destroyed their entire family, leaving them heartbroken and filled with rage. The Crown and defence had asked both the court to set the parole ineligibility period for Shamji at 14 years. "Three young children have lost their mother forever," McMahon said. "Their father has now admitted, and convicted to, killing their mother and sentenced to life in prison today." McMahon credited Shamji for his last-minute guilty plea, which saved his young daughter from testifying as a key witness at the trial. But he also condemned Shamji for the nature of the brutal murder at the couple's home. "I recognize there is no evidence of planning. A heated argument led to the killing," McMahon said. "The nature of the violence is extreme." tech2 News Staff South Korean tech giant Samsung is always on the forefront of technological innovation and this time around it is showing its prowess in the camera department. Samsung has just unveiled a new 64 MP ISOCELL Bright GW1 image sensor which could quite likely find its way into its upcoming Galaxy Note 10. As per Samsung, this new sensor has the highest resolution in Samsungs 0.8m-pixel image sensor lineup and also features the industrys highest resolution lens. The 64 MP ISOCELL Bright GW1 uses pixel-merging Tetracell technology to churn out 16 MP images in low lighting conditions by merging four pixels into one and 64 MP images with "color filter descrambling" in well-lit conditions. There is support for real-time high dynamic range of up to 100 decibels (dB) which can give "richer hues" says Samsung. Conventional sensors have a dynamic range of about 60 dB while the human eye is considered to be around 120 dB. Apart from this Samsung also unveiled the updated 48 MP ISOCELL Bright GM2 sensor as well which uses the sensor's Tetracell technology along with a remosaic algorithms. It also gets Super PD for high-performance phase detection auto-focus. Samsung says that the 64 MP ISOCELL Bright GW1 will enter mass-production in the second half of this year. tech2 News Staff Brent, a borough in London, is building a 'bee corridor that will run seven miles. This path will pass through parks and other open spaces. After studying bees in Great Britain over the years 1980-2013, when their numbers saw a steady decline in the population of pollinators. To counteract this decline, the council has decided to plant wildflowers to attract the bees. These pollinating insects are important in the grander scheme of things. They help maintain the ecosystem health and for food security all over the world. Around 75 percent of crop species, 35 percent of global crop production, and up to 88 percent of flowering plant species are dependent on insect pollinators to reproduce and survive. Habitat loss, excessive use of pesticides, climate change and infestation of other species are the main threats to these hardworking insects. Seven mile long corridor of wildflowers has been created in the London borough of Brent and should be ready for pollinators this summer! #bees #pollinators https://t.co/wFSvU4x4E9 pic.twitter.com/A1KC3UAP8t BBKA (@britishbee) May 6, 2019 The 11-kilometre-corridor will have 22 wildflower meadows and be prepared just in time for summer in London. The researchers are hopefully their strategy will boost the number of pollinating insects like butterflies, bees, dragonflies and moths in the city. The project is already underway, with engineers ploughing plots to be sowed. Ragged robin, cowslip and common poppy seeds are among flowering plants sown to attract the insects. Whether successful or not, the meadows are sure to bring a bright burst of colour for residents of Brent, London when they visit these parks. Reuters A fossil unearthed in northeastern China of a feathered dinosaur a bit bigger than a blue jay that possessed bat-like wings represents a remarkable but short-lived detour in the evolution of flight and the advent of birds, scientists said on Wednesday. The dinosaur, named Ambopteryx longibrachium, lived 163 million years ago during the Jurassic Period and took flight with membranous wings made of skin supported by a long, pointed wrist bone, dramatically different from the distinctive feathered wings of birds. Before aviation pioneers Orville and Wilbur Wright flew the first successful airplane, others dabbled with various experimental flying machines. There was an analogous period of flight experimentation among dinosaurs before small feathered ones evolved into the first birds about 150 million years ago. Unlike birds, Ambopteryx had membranous wings resembling Pterosaurs, flying reptiles that appeared roughly 230 million years ago, and bats, flying mammals that appeared roughly 50 million years ago. Its fossil, found in 2017 by a local farmer in Liaoning Province, was well preserved, boasting details of soft tissue like the wing membranes, bristly body feathers, stomach contents of its last meal and gizzard stones. It lacked the long, strong flight feathers characteristic of birds. Ambopteryx is the second-known dinosaur with membranous wings, joining Yi qi, which lived 2-3 million years later. Yis fossil, published in 2015, was found 50 miles (80 km) away. The discoveries of Ambopteryx and Yi completely change our view about the origin of avian flight, said palaeontologist Min Wang of the Institute of Vertebrate Paleontology and Paleoanthropology, Chinese Academy of Sciences. For a long time, we thought feathered wings were the only flight apparatus in the evolution of birds, Wang added. However, these new discoveries clearly exhibit that membranous wings also evolved in some dinosaurs closely related to birds. Put together, the breadth and richness of the experimentation pertaining to flight is greater than was previously thought during the dinosaur-bird transition. And we may be seeing just the tip of the iceberg. Membranous wings in dinosaurs appear to have been short-lived experimentation, added Wang who led the research was published in the journal Nature. Wang said Ambopteryx, about 13 inches (32 cm) long and about 11 ounces (306 grams) in weight, was certainly capable of gliding but it is difficult to know whether it could achieve powered flight. Likely omnivorous, Ambopteryx lived an arboreal lifestyle in a forested environment. tech2 News Staff Giant asteroids ramming into the Earth are a common plot point in doomsday sci-fi. The threat of an asteroid impact, however, is only too real. After wrecking the French Riviera in 2013, destroying Dhaka in 2015 and sparing Tokyo in 2017, an international team of scientists and disaster response experts took to New York in 2019 to gauge how prepared humanity is to deal with a killer asteroid heading the way of our planet. Eight simulated years of preparation weren't enough for scientists and engineers to deflect the killer asteroid successfully. For now, it's clear that we'd be as lucky as the dinosaurs were if an asteroid really did hit Earth. #DART, @NASA's first planetary defense mission, will get one chance to hit its target: the small moon of a binary asteroid. Here's how #JHUAPL plans to pull off a feat in in real life that, until now, has only been the stuff of #SciFi stories. https://t.co/NzTqDtGPuL pic.twitter.com/h4cuvLphZF Johns Hopkins APL (@JHUAPL) May 6, 2019 In 2022, NASAs Double Asteroid Redirection Test #DART will deliberately crash into the moonlet at a speed of about 6km/s, altering the smaller asteroid's orbit by a small (but important) amount#PlanetaryDefense Credit: JHUAPL pic.twitter.com/3hdN0tYe1T ESA Operations (@esaoperations) May 1, 2019 Luckily for us, space scientists do have a few ideas to up our odds of survival. For one, if the threat of a killer asteroid was found early enough, it may be possible to nudge it off course and change its direction away from Earth. NASA's Double Asteroid Redirection Test (DART) is designed to do just that: go on a suicide mission to smash itself into an asteroid to test the "planetary defense" strategy. In the first-ever asteroid deflection test, DART will knock into one of the smaller members in a near-Earth asteroid system called Didymos. The "moonlets" of the Didymos asteroid system are typically the size of asteroids that pose a threat to Earth. How the impact will play out and the momentum that DART transfers to the asteroid when it strikes it depends on many factors the strength and core of the asteroid, most importantly. "We're trying to anticipate how much we can actually deflect the Didymos asteroid, and thats quite challenging because we dont know what the asteroid is made of," Sabina Raducan, a planetary scientist at Imperial College London working on simulating the impact scenario, told Astronomy. The team is hoping it has a weak and porous body. A hard rock won't budge as much since it can absorb the impact, making the entire exercise a pointless one. DART will travel at a speed of 22,530 km per hour when it crashes into the moonlet, after which scientists expect the asteroid to change its velocity by a millimeter per second. It may not sound like much, but if done years before a predicted impact, it can be the difference between extinction and survival. Much of the work on DART so far has been in modeling and simulations, but parts of the spacecraft have begun to take shape, according to NASA. NASA has also confirmed that SpaceX's Falcon 9 rocket will be used to launch DART up and away on its first and final mission. tech2 News Staff One of the largest natural strongholds of the Royal Bengal Tiger the marshy mangrove ecosystem in the Sunderbans forest is under threat from climate change. Along with the climate growing unfit for the mangrove forests to survive, the rising sea levels could potentially submerge 70 percent of the habitat in a few decades. A team of researchers from Bangladesh and Australia made this bold new claim in a report published in the journal Science of the Total Environment. The Sundarban forests, partly falling into India and partly in Bangladesh, make up the single-largest mangrove ecosystem still in existence. It spans a vast area of more than 6,000 sq km, and is the last stronghold of the Bengal tiger, which is a native to the swampy, marshy Sunderbans delta. Currently, almost 70 percent of the delta is low-lying within a metre of sea level. Rising water levels are a significant threat to low-lying areas, and the tiger habitats of Sundarbans are particularly vulnerable to it. Moreover, some of the other effects of climate change changing weather patterns, heat waves and extreme weather events, most notably are likely to have an even greater impact, according to the new study. The researchers used detailed simulation models for the two scenarios of climate change that were developed by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), along with projected sea level rise in the region to arrive at an assessment about how sustainable the region is for its tigers. "While this is preliminary analysis, we can conclude that the largest population of Bengal tigers is in an area where a combination of actors including climate change and human encroachment could both contribute to the decimation of habitats," William Laurence, co-author of the study from James Cook University, told IndiaSpend. Also read: Understanding Project tiger, a homegrown tiger conservation success story With both temperatures and sea levels on the rise, the amount of salinated seawater flowing into land can change the soil's composition, making it harder for some plants to grow. With choices of available food on the decline, Sunderbans' population of spotted-deer, the foremost prey of the Bengal tiger, will be affected severely as the leaves and trees they feed on gradually disappear. With natural resources on the decline, tigers are also more likely to stray into settlements with people, on the lookout for food. Tiger-human conflict is also predicted to increase in this scenario, according to the study. The mangroves at the heart of the Sundarbans, themselves, are critically endangered, as per the IUCN Red List. Mangroves are trees that are salt tolerant, with roots that submerged under water and act as a nursery and nest for marine life. These young ones eventually migrate to reefs, which many of these creatures call home for a significant period of their lives. The collective ecosystem of mangroves, seagrass and corals are of huge importance to ocean health for many reasons they trap and produce food for marine life, protect coasts from the impact of storms, help filter out pollutants in run-off water from land, and make for habitats to turtles, seahorses, manatees, fish and foraging sea life like urchins and sea cucumbers. As for the Bengal tigers, researchers believe the population could still survive in the region if conservation of tigers and the local ecosystem is made a priority. The study calls on the government of Bangladesh to make accommodations designate larger areas for tiger conservation, make more corridors for tigers to move around safely, and remain vigilant about poaching and hunting in the area to avoid any further decline in their population. While the study claims that tigers could be wiped out from the Sunderbans in 50 years, not all experts share the same opinion. Sugata Hazra, an oceanographer at Jadavpur University, Kolkata says that she doesnt subscribe to the same "doomsday view". "When we conducted our 2016 study, we accounted for a 'sediment attrition rate', since mangroves are also building land in the area as they attract sediment," Hazra told Indiaspend. After they adjusted the sea level rise after sedimentation, the land loss was roughly 17 percent. The Sunderbans Tiger Reserve was found to be home to at least 103 tigers in the 2013 census. Of its entire land area, around 40 percent an area the size of Goa falls under West Bengal. Some conservationists believe that this division of Sunderbans (as well its tiger population) between efforts from both, the Bangladeshi and Indian side, is a hindrance. "Tigers can cross easily between India and Bangladesh so the tiger population is not a separate one; they live in a trans-national ecosystem," Hazra told Indiaspend. An approach with closer cooperation on sharing the forest resources, tiger habitat and upkeep of freshwater supply in the area is important, she adds. But any big effort needs time, and there's one thing that the study and Professor Hazra are in agreement about: the fight against habitat loss in the Sunderbans needs to begin immediately. It could take 20 years or more for these efforts to even begin showing results, but there won't be a forest or tigers to save in 50 years if action isn't taken soon. tech2 News Staff From aeroplane hundreds of feet above Greenland's largest glaciers, scientists are peering down to map melting ice and flowing rivers in the glaciers below. They've found many tiny blue pools of melting ice on the ground that has formed a lot sooner than one might expect for this time of the year. It isn't summer in the Arctic yet, and the premature melting researchers are seeing in Greenland glaciers, has them concerned. This finding is a big deal! Blue ponds forming on the icy surface before summers strongly suggest that the region could experience above-average levels of melting ice this season. Researchers part of NASA's Operation IceBridge project are watching these glaciers as part of a larger mission to study the changes in Earth's polar ice in recent years. @NASA #IceBridge observed surface melt north of Jakobshavn Meltwater is filling in the crevasses and ponding on the surface. While the blue water is breathtaking , the early onset of melt over Greenland is concerning for pic.twitter.com/56g0bZDNDh Brooke Medley (@DrBrookeMedley) May 7, 2019 "Although the story of the summer of 2019 in Greenland hasn't yet been written, it's starting on a worrying note," Joe MacGregor, project scientist for NASA's Operation IceBridge, told Mashable. More than any other polar region in the world, Greenland has seen melting at higher-than-normal rates for two decades now. Pre-summer ice melts have been seen before in late-May and early-June, but the temperature in Greenland has been much warmer than average this year, MacGregor explained. Well above average temperatures across all of #Greenland over the last week. Follow forecasts for Greenland (weather and surface mass balance) this summer using the MARv3.9 model (forced by GFS) at https://t.co/xeu1qQ3ksc pic.twitter.com/BxyWsnR2Gc Zack Labe (@ZLabe) May 5, 2019 The region pictured in the video is in west-central Greenland, home to the massive, fastest-moving glacier Jakobshavn Isbr. Scientists in the IceBridge project have visited the Jakobshavn glacier and some of the large glaciers nearby three times this season, and the early melt seems to be affecting all of these frozen reserves to varying degrees. From Sunday's #IceBridge flight: Emerald green ponds weave around ice and debris near the terminus of Russell Glacier, which is showing signs of an early onset into the melt season pic.twitter.com/u7mgVnWmdd NASA ICE (@NASA_ICE) May 7, 2019 Meltwater and debris along the edge of Eqip Sermia in Greenland, from #IceBridge's Monday flight pic.twitter.com/pl3rldhe1g NASA ICE (@NASA_ICE) May 7, 2019 A supraglacial lake forms in a depression behind jagged ice towers, from #IceBridge's flight on Monday pic.twitter.com/BUFUjLTbAn NASA ICE (@NASA_ICE) May 7, 2019 The future of Jakobshavn is something scientists are keen to watch. It's famous among glaciers as the source of the iceberg that sunk the Titanic. But this bed of ice over a kilometre and a half thick is Greenland's single-largest reserve of frozen freshwater. In the long run, ocean temperatures are gradually warming, but these glaciers are also extremely sensitive to ocean temperatures, making it a twin threat. Reliable data from satellites have tracked Greenland's ice loss, which is six times faster than 40 years ago. Exposed ice also prompts the water beneath to absorbs even more heat, and speed up the melt even further. The US welcomed the reunification of Asia Bibi with her family in Canada, months after her death sentence in Pakistan was overturned. Washington: The US on Wednesday said it uniformly opposed blasphemy laws anywhere in the world, welcoming the reunification of Pakistani Christian woman Asia Bibi with her family in Canada, months after her death sentence was overturned. Bibi, a mother of four from Punjab province, was taken out of Pakistan after repeated death threats from religious extremists, following the quashing of her conviction for blasphemy last year. The 47-year-old was convicted in 2010 after being accused of insulting Islam in a row with her neighbours. She always maintained her innocence, but has spent most of the past eight years in solitary confinement. Bibi's counsel Saiful Malook confirmed that she had reached Canada. "The United States welcomes the news that Asia Bibi has safely reunited with her family," US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said in a statement. "This important step follows the decision of Pakistan's Supreme Court to acquit her of blasphemy charges in October 2018 a decision that was subsequently upheld in January 2019," Pompeo said. "Asia Bibi is now free, and we wish her and her family all the best following their reunification. The United States uniformly opposes blasphemy laws anywhere in the world, as they jeopardise the exercise of fundamental freedoms," he said. The United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) welcomed Bibi's departure from Pakistan. "We are greatly relieved that Asia Bibi has finally been able to leave Pakistan and reunite with her family," said USCIRF chairman Tenzin Dorjee. "While we are grateful that Asia Bibi will be able to start anew in Canada, she lost nearly a decade of her life in prison after being falsely accused of blasphemy," he said. Unfortunately, there are at least 40 other individuals in Pakistan sentenced to death or serving life sentences on blasphemy charges, he rued. "We ask the Pakistani government to nullify the blasphemy law and acquit them of the charges," Dorjee said. "The news of Asia Bibi's safety is marred by the tragic bombing outside a Sufi shrine in Lahore, reminding us of the dangers members of religious minorities continue to face in Pakistan," he said. Dorjee said the targeting of Sufi Muslims and others by non-state actors and extremist groups perpetuates a deadly cycle of sectarian violence that impedes freedom of religion or belief in Pakistan. Asia Noreen, commonly known as Asia Bibi, was the first woman to be sentenced to death under Pakistan's controversial blasphemy laws. Under Pakistan's penal code, the offense of blasphemy is punishable by death or life imprisonment. She was kept at a secret location while arrangements were made for her to leave the country. The Supreme Court's quashing of her sentence on 31 October last year led to violent protests by religious hardliners who support strong blasphemy laws, while more liberal sections of society urged her release. Following a day of drama that included Trump asserting his executive privilege for the first time in his presidency, the Republican-led Senate Intelligence Committee took the surprise step of issuing a subpoena to Donald Trump Jr to testify as part of its investigation into Russian election interference, US media reported. Washington: The Russia probe plunged Washington into turmoil Wednesday as Donald Trump's son reportedly was ordered to testify before a Senate panel and the White House refused to release material on investigations into the president. A day after the top Republican in Congress called the Russia probe "case closed," Trump's conflict with his Democratic opponents escalated to new heights as a House panel voted to hold the nation's Attorney General Bill Barr in contempt for refusing to turn over key documents. Following a day of drama that included Trump asserting his executive privilege for the first time in his presidency, the Republican-led Senate Intelligence Committee took the surprise step of issuing a subpoena to Donald Trump Jr to testify as part of its investigation into Russian election interference, US media reported. It was the first known legal summons issued to a member of the president's family to force testimony in the ongoing investigation, and comes after special counsel Robert Mueller declined to accuse Trump's 2016 campaign of criminal conspiracy to collude with the Russians. Trump Jr, 41, has testified voluntarily in private once to the committee, and was peppered with questions about a June 9, 2016 meeting in Trump Tower in New York that he and other campaign officials had with a Russian lawyer who had offered them dirt on Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton. Committee aides would not confirm the subpoena or what they want to discuss with the president's eldest son, who currently helps run the Trump Organization. Citing a person close to Trump Jr, The Wall Street Journal reported he had offered to answer questions in writing from the committee, and planned to fight the subpoena, which demands he testify in person. - 'Constitutional crisis' - The White House meanwhile has been seeking to shield a large swathe of material, including redacted portions of Mueller's report, subpoenaed by lawmakers seeking to exert their oversight responsibility. The rare move to invoke executive privilege came as the House Judiciary Committee took its most substantive step yet against a member of the Trump administration by approving a contempt motion against Barr. "This was a very grave and momentous step we were forced to take today," committee chairman Jerry Nadler said after the party-line vote. Nadler said the contempt citation will proceed "rapidly" for a full House vote but did not offer a timeline. Nadler accused Trump and the White House of stonewalling by preventing America's congressional representatives from conducting oversight of the executive branch. "It's an attack on the essence of our democracy," Nadler said. "We are now in a constitutional crisis." The Department of Justice swiftly shot back, branding the contempt vote "inappropriate political theatrics." Hours earlier, Trump made clear he would assert his executive privilege to keep Mueller's full report under wraps. "Neither the White House nor Attorney General Barr will comply with Chairman Nadler's unlawful and reckless demands," White House press secretary Sarah Sanders said. Assistant Attorney General Stephen Boyd stressed that Trump had moved to keep "the entirety of the subpoenaed materials" from the eyes of Congress. Nadler warned that such action "represents a clear escalation in the Trump administration's blanket defiance of Congress's constitutionally mandated duties." Democrats have struggled with their battle plan in the wake of the Mueller report. Some have called for impeachment proceedings against Trump, while others stress the need to refocus on issues affecting everyday Americans ahead of the 2020 election. The administration has been resolute in accusing Democrats of seeking to tear down the president. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Trump's nemesis in Congress, has refrained from calling for his impeachment. But on Wednesday she voiced support for the contempt move, and delivered a stinging message about the White House refusal to release the unredacted report, a document that Trump claimed exonerated him of wrongdoing. Is this what it looks like when you have nothing to hide? #FreeMueller https://t.co/8B3SZYsNFl Nancy Pelosi (@SpeakerPelosi) May 8, 2019 For several hours in the tense judiciary hearing, lawmakers traded barbs about Barr's brazen protection of the president and the calculated effort by Democrats to punish him and gain access to key material. Trump took to Twitter to rail about Mueller's two-year investigation. Everyone wants to know who needs to be accountable, because it took up two years of our lives talking about this Russian involvement. It proved No Collusion, & people want to trace it back to see how this all happened? @ainsleyearhardt @foxandfriends TREASONOUS HOAX! Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) May 8, 2019 "TREASONOUS HOAX!" Trump boomed, a reference to a favorite complaint that the probe was an unwarranted political hit job by his opponents. Barr defied a subpoena to turn over a complete copy of Mueller's report and the underlying evidence, and last week refused to testify before the House Judiciary Committee. The panel approved the 27-page contempt citation in which Nadler wrote that even the redacted report "offers disturbing evidence and analysis that President Trump engaged in obstruction of justice at the highest levels." Kendrick Castillo minimised bloodshed and saved lives. The attackers made their first court appearance on Wednesday. Highlands Ranch (US): The three students who disarmed a gunman in a Colorado school shooting leapt up from their desks without a word and with no thought for their own safety when they spotted the gun, recounted one of the young men. They slammed the teenager, a classmate of theirs, against the wall and struggled with him when shots rang out. Kendrick Castillo, who led the charge, slumped to the ground. His close friend, Brendan Bialy, wrestled the gun away and called out to Castillo. There was no response, Bialy told a roomful of reporters on Wednesday as he recalled what happened the previous day at STEM School Highlands Ranch. "Kendrick went out as a hero," Bialy said. "He was a foot away from the shooter and instead of running the opposite direction he ran toward it." Authorities said the actions of Castillo, Bialy and Joshua Jones minimised the bloodshed from Tuesday's attack at the school south of Denver that wounded eight students along with killing the 18-year-old Castillo. The injured includes Jones, who was shot twice, according to a statement released by his family. Bialy acknowledged that he was scared, but he said he wasn't going to cower for shooters he repeatedly called cowards. "They lost," he said of the shooters. "They completely and utterly lost to good people." The attackers were identified by law enforcement officials as 18-year-old Devon Erickson and a 16-year-old who prosecutors identified as Maya McKinney but whose attorney said uses male pronouns and the name Alec. The two allegedly walked into the STEM School Highlands Ranch through an entrance without metal detectors and opened fire in two classrooms. Because the attack happened only miles from Columbine High School and just weeks after the shooting's 20th anniversary, questions quickly arose about whether it was inspired by the 1999 massacre. But investigators offered no immediate motive. A member of the school's robotics club and a relentless tinkerer, Castillo had an infectious smile and gentle sense of humour, according to friends. He worked part-time at a local manufacturing company that had offered him a job after an internship because he was such a standout employee. "To find he went down as a hero, I'm not surprised. That's exactly who Kendrick was," said Rachel Short, president of the company, Baccara. Cecilia Bedard, 19, had known Castillo since elementary school and said he was always friendly, modest and excited to help people. He made a point of always joining his father at Knights of Columbus fundraisers and bingo nights. "He was amazing," Bedard said. "He was honestly the sweetest kid I ever met. Never said a mean joke." The security guard who detained the second armed suspect was employed by Boss High Level Protection, a company started by a former SWAT team leader who responded to the Columbine shooting. The owner, Grant Whitus, told The Associated Press the security guard is a former Marine who ran to the area of the shootings and confronted one of the armed students in a hallway. The guard drew his weapon and apprehended the person, Whitus said. "He doesn't even realize how many lives he saved by stopping a school shooting," Whitus said. Both suspects were students at the school, and they were not previously known to authorities, Spurlock said. Erickson made his first court appearance Wednesday and kept his head down. His black hair, streaked with purple dye, covered his face as he nodded in response to most of District Court Judge Theresa Slade's questions. At one point, the judge requested a verbal answer to whether he had any questions about the proceedings. Erickson simply replied "No." McKinney, who has a short brown haircut, made eye contact with the judge and answered questions in a clear but quiet voice, saying "Yes, your honour" and "No, your honour." District attorney George Brauchler said he has not decided whether to file adult charges but added that McKinney is old enough to be charged as an adult without a judge's review. Formal charges were expected to be filed by Friday. Brauchler said he could not discuss any motive or weapons used in the attack. Brauchler said the community remains resilient in the face of multiple shootings, including the 1999 Columbine school massacre, the 2012 theater shooting in the Denver suburb of Aurora and the 2013 shooting at Arapahoe High School. The attacks are "aberrant acts" although they might seem otherwise to the rest of the world, he said. "Who we are is a kind, compassionate, caring people, and this does not define us." BUDAPEST (Reuters) - Hungary forced 11 Afghan nationals to cross into Serbia after rejecting their asylum requests, a rights advocate said on Wednesday, and deported a 12th convicted of people smuggling back to Kabul. BUDAPEST (Reuters) - Hungary forced 11 Afghan nationals to cross into Serbia after rejecting their asylum requests, a rights advocate said on Wednesday, and deported a 12th convicted of people smuggling back to Kabul. The deportation of a further five Afghans, all members of the same family, was temporarily suspended following an appeal to the European Court of Human Rights by the Hungarian Helsinki Committee, a human rights group. The Hungarian Immigration and Asylum Office (IAO) said the measures were part of a joint operation with European border and coast guard agency Frontex, in which 39 people were flown to Afghanistan altogether. The Helsinki Committee said the Hungarian operation targeted three Afghan families. Two families, including a pregnant woman, were moved to Serbia overnight. "These people were put in an impossible situation," said Andras Lederer, a Helsinki information and advocacy officer. "... Either (to) return to Kabul or cross over into Serbia in the middle of nowhere late at night." The IAO said 11 people choose to go to Serbia. An interior ministry media officer said the single Afghan deportee had been convicted of people smuggling. Lederer said the family of five was being held at a border transit zone while their case was pending. The European Court of Human Rights did not immediately respond to emailed questions for comment. The IAO said before arriving to Hungary, the asylum-seekers had passed through several countries, including an EU member state, where they had access to medical and other assistance. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban leads a nationalist government with a strongly anti-immigrant platform. (Reporting by Gergely Szakacs and Sandor Peto; editing by John Stonestreet) This story has not been edited by Firstpost staff and is generated by auto-feed. Photo: RCMP Photo: RCMP Photo: RCMP Kelowna RCMP Cpl. Kent Hall accepts the St. John Life Saving Award Photo: RCMP Cst. Ewan Dewolf was awarded a Commanding Officers Commendation for his bravery in his response to a report of shots fired and an active shooter situation while he served at the Sunshine Coast RCMP Detachment Photo: Contributed Cst. Eva Harding, a member of the Kootenay Boundary Regional RCMP Detachment, was recognized for her outstanding leadership and dedication to the health and safety of her co-workers, after she discovered a potential workplace hazard. 1 2 3 4 5 The RCMP honoured their own this week. Almost two dozen officers, civilian member employees and public service employees were honoured for their service, many with 20 to 35 years on the force. Acting Commanding Officer of the RCMP in B.C. Assistant Commissioner Steven Thatcher and the District Commander of the RCMP in Southeast B.C. Chief Superintendent Brad Haugli presented the awards on Wednesday. The day marked memorable life-saving actions, heroic acts of bravery, displays of courage, commitment to volunteering in the community and long service with the RCMP. Kelowna RCMP Cpl. Kent Hall was awarded the St. John Life Saving Award for his application of a tourniquet to the severe leg wound of a pedestrian who had been struck by a motorcycle in May of 2017. The 68-year-old man was visiting Canada from Germany when he was struck by a motorbike while attempting to cross a busy multi-lane highway in West Kelowna. The tourist sustained serious injuries and was suffering from severe life-threatening blood loss at the time when Cpl. Hall intervened. The day and ceremony honoured the men and women, like Cpl. Hall, who work and sacrifice to keep civilians safe. Their tag line is: This Is What We Do, This Is Who We Are. President Hassan Rouhani says Iran will stop exporting its excess uranium and heavy water from its nuclear program, as stipulated by the agreement. If the 60-day deadline passes without action, Rouhani says Iran will resume higher uranium enrichment as well. Dubai: Iran has set a 60-day deadline for world powers to renegotiate the terms of its 2015 nuclear deal, a year to the day after President Donald Trump pulled America from the landmark accord. President Hassan Rouhani says Iran will stop exporting its excess uranium and heavy water from its nuclear program, as stipulated by the agreement. If the 60-day deadline passes without action, Rouhani says Iran will resume higher uranium enrichment as well. Here's where Iran's nuclear program and the unravelling accord now stand. The nuclear deal Iran struck the nuclear deal in 2015 with the United States, the European Union, France, Germany, the United Kingdom, Russia and China. The deal, formally known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, grew out of secret talks President Barack Obama's administration held with Iran after Rouhani, a relative moderate, took office. Iran agreed to limit its enrichment of uranium under the watch of UN inspectors in exchange for the lifting of economic sanctions. International businesses rushed to do deals with Iran, most notably the billion-dollar sales by Airbus and Boeing Co. Trump, who campaigned for the White House on a promise of tearing up the deal as it didn't address Iran's ballistic missile program or its involvement in regional conflicts, withdrew America from the accord on 8 May, 2018. That halted the promised international business deals and dealt a heavy blow to Iran's already anemic economy. In the time since, the Trump administration has said any country that imports Iranian crude oil will face US sanctions. Iran's nuclear facilities Natanz, in Iran's central Isfahan province, hosts the country's main uranium enrichment facility, which is located underground. Iran has one operating nuclear power plant in Bushehr, which it opened with the help of Russia in 2011. Under the accord, Iran reconfigured a heavy-water reactor so it couldn't produce plutonium and agreed to convert its Fordo enrichment site dug deep into a mountainside into a research center. It also operates an over 50-year-old research reactor in Tehran. Iran's uranium stockpile Under terms of the nuclear deal, Iran can keep a stockpile of no more than 300 kilograms (660 pounds) of low-enriched uranium. That's compared to the 10,000 kilograms (22,046 pounds) of higher-enriched uranium it once had. Currently, the accord limits Iran to enriching uranium to 3.67 percent, which can fuel a commercial nuclear power plant. Weapons-grade uranium needs to be enriched to around 90 percent. However, once a country enriches uranium to around 20 percent, scientists say the time needed to reach 90 percent is halved. Iran has previously enriched to 20 percent. Iran's centrifuges A centrifuge is a device that enriches uranium by rapidly spinning uranium hexafluoride gas. Under the atomic accord, Iran has been limited to operating 5,060 older-model IR-1 centrifuges. The IR-1 is based on a 1970s Dutch design that Pakistani scientist AQ Khan used to build Islamabad's nuclear weapons program and later sold to Iran, Libya and North Korea. Iran has the technical ability to build and operate advanced versions called the IR-2M, IR-4 and IR-6 at a facility in Natanz, but is barred from doing so under the nuclear deal. Ali Akbar Salehi, the head of Iran's nuclear program, told The Associated Press in September that the IR-2M and the IR-4 can enrich uranium five times faster than an IR-1, while the IR-6 can do it 10 times faster. Western experts have suggested these centrifuges produce three to five times more enriched uranium in a year than the IR-1s. Iran also mothballed many already-built centrifuges as part of the deal. From 'atoms for peace' to Stuxnet Iran's nuclear program actually began with the help of the United States. Under its "Atoms for Peace" program, America supplied a test reactor that came online in Tehran in 1967 under the rule of Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi. That help ended once Iran's 1979 Islamic Revolution overthrew the shah. In the 1990s, Iran expanded its program, including buying equipment from AQ Khan. Among its activities, Iran "may have received design information" for a bomb and researched explosive detonators, according to the International Atomic Energy Agency. By August 2002, Western intelligence services and an Iranian opposition group revealed a covert nuclear site at Natanz. Iran to this day denies its nuclear program had a military dimension. Iran suspended enrichment in 2003 but resumed it three years later under hard-line President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad. World powers imposed crippling UN sanctions in response. The Stuxnet computer virus, widely believed to be a joint US-Israeli creation, soon disrupted thousands of Iranian centrifuges. A string of bombings, blamed on Israel, targeted a number of scientists beginning in 2010 at the height of Western concerns over Iran's program. Israel never claimed responsibility for the attacks, though Israeli officials have boasted in the past about the reach of the country's intelligence services. Israel last year said it seized records from a "secret atomic archive" in Iran. President Donald Trump has repeatedly boasted that the tariffs he has imposed on trading partners are a financial windfall for the US Treasury, but research shows it is Americans that bear the brunt of the impact. Trump plans to ratchet up tariffs on $200 billion worth of Chinese goods to 25 percent on Friday, and said the US will be fine without a trade deal since it is raking in the proceed from the tariffs. Washington, United States: President Donald Trump has repeatedly boasted that the tariffs he has imposed on trading partners are a financial windfall for the US Treasury, but research shows it is Americans that bear the brunt of the impact. Trump plans to ratchet up tariffs on $200 billion worth of Chinese goods to 25 percent on Friday and said the US will be fine without a trade deal since it is raking in the proceed from the tariffs. But that announcement worries businesses and farmers and has shaken up investors worldwide. "Tariffs are taxes paid by American businesses and consumers, not by China," said David French, senior vice president of the National Retail Federation. "A sudden tariff increase with less than a week's notice would severely disrupt US businesses, especially small companies that have limited resources to mitigate the impact," French said. According to Trump, the duties have brought in an additional $100 billion a year paid by China and other countries, but in fact, the taxes are paid by the importers, and ultimately passed on, at least partially, to consumers. US and Chinese trade officials are set to hold crucial negotiations Thursday and Friday in Washington, under the threat of the new tariffs. And while industry and retailers support the Trump administration's desire to change China's behaviour and open access to the massive market, they worry the tactics will begin to cut into their sales as consumers feel the pinch. "We want President Trump to successfully reach a deal with China that puts a check on anti-competitive behaviour," said Hun Quach, vice president of the Retail Industry Leaders Association. But he said the middle class will end up paying more for everyday consumer goods. Jobs threatened, expenses up The Trade Partnership, a private research firm, calculated that increasing existing duties to 25 percent will raise annual expenses for a family of four by $767 and threaten nearly one million jobs. Trade with China supports seven million jobs in the United States, out of 39 million US jobs related to international trade. The conflict between the economic powers has engulfed $360 billion in two-way trade. Trump began the tariff war last year because of complaints over unfair Chinese trade practices. Customs duties affect many intermediate products such as steel, leather, rubber and plastics, as well as finished products from household appliances, to televisions and furniture. A recent study by the New York Federal Reserve Bank shows that taxes imposed since March 2018 on steel and aluminium, and in July on Chinese goods, boosted the consumer price index by 0.3 percentage points last year. Research released last month by the University of Chicago and the New York Fed estimated that tariffs imposed on imported washing machines cost American consumers an additional $1.5 billion a year, raising the price of a washing machine by $86 and a dryer by $92. "We want to see meaningful changes in China's trade practices, but it makes no sense to punish Americans as a negotiating tactic," French of the NRF complained in a statement. "If the administration wants to put more pressure on China, it should form a multinational coalition with our allies who share our concerns." On Wednesday, official data from China showed a drop in exports in April, but Beijing's surplus with the United States remained stable despite the tariffs. China has retaliated with steep tariffs on US agricultural imports, especially soy beans, although the Trump administration paid $12 billion in compensation to help hurting US farmers. Several Republican politicians from states that voted for Trump said farmers were "losing patience," in the words of Iowa Senator Joni Ernst. A bomb blast, targeted at security forces guarding the Data Darbar Sufi Shrine in Pakistan's Lahore district, has killed at least eight persons, including five police officials, media reports have said. At least 10 persons, including five police personnel, were killed when a suicide bomber blew himself up outside a major Sufi shrine in Pakistan's Lahore on Wednesday as the country marks the fasting month of Ramzan, officials said. It has been claimed by the Hizbul Ahrar, a splinter group of the Pakistani Taliban. The bomb detonated at 08.45 am (09.15 am IST) outside the gate number 2 of the shrine Data Darbar shrine, targeting a van carrying the Elite Force of Punjab Police, Geo TV quoted Deputy Inspector General, Lahore Police as saying. Prime Minister Imran Khan condemned the loss of lives in the attack, expressing grief and condoling with the victims families for their loss. Local channel Geo News further said that at least 25 people were being treated for injuries, some of whom were grievously injured. The condition of four policemen is stated to be critical. Preliminary investigation suggested that the blast could have been carried out by a suicide bomber with the intention to target the police force. The bomb contained seven kilograms of explosive material, Dawn reported. Punjab Law Minister Basharat Raja said that the death toll may rise as some of the injured's condition is critical. "We condemn this cowardly act," he said and also confirmed it was suicide attack. Mayo Hospital Medical Superintendent Yar Muhammad put the death toll to nine. "We have received nine persons, including policemen dead. The condition of six injured is critical and doctors are trying their best to save their lives," he said. Punjab Inspector General of Police (IGP) Arif Nawaz told Dawn that the police was almost certain the target of attack were security personnel because "the attacker could have caused more damage because of the direction he had approached from, but he made a beeline for the police car stationed in the area for protection of the shrine." Wednesday is the second day in the holy month of Ramzan and hundreds of devotees were present in and around the structure. The blast comes at a time when Sufi Islam has been under threat in Sunni-dominated Pakistan for last two decades and there have been several deadly attacks on Sufi shrines across the country. Wednesday's attack comes days after Pakistani prime minister Imran Khan inaugurated a dedicated university to study Sufism in Jhelum district of Punjab province. The facility, known as Al-Qadir University, is named after Sheikh Abdul Qadir Jilani, an 11th century Sunni Muslim preacher, orator, mystic, theologian and founder of the Qadiriyya order of Sufism. The Data Darbar shrine, one of the largest Sufi shrines in South Asia that dates back to the 11th century, has been targeted previously, in a 2010 suicide attack that killed more than 40 people. The shrine, which is the burial site of saint Ali Hajveri, has been under heavy security cover since then. In October 2017, at least 18 people were killed in a suicide attack on a Sufi Muslim shrine in Pakistan's southwestern province of Baluchistan. Later, Islamic State said it was behind the attack. In February of the same year, at least 80 people were killed in another attack on a shrine in Sehwan in southern Sindh province. This assault too was later claimed by the so-called Islamic State. CARACAS (Reuters) - Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Guaido said on Wednesday that intelligence agents had detained his deputy, the first arrest of a lawmaker since Guaido tried to spark a military uprising last week to bring down President Nicolas Maduro's government. CARACAS (Reuters) - Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Guaido said on Wednesday that intelligence agents had detained his deputy, the first arrest of a lawmaker since Guaido tried to spark a military uprising last week to bring down President Nicolas Maduro's government. Edgar Zambrano, vice president of the opposition-controlled National Assembly, which Guaido heads, said on Twitter that agents from the SEBIN intelligence agency were using a tow truck to drag his vehicle, with him inside, to one of their Caracas bases. On Tuesday, Venezuela's pro-Maduro Constituent Assembly ruled to strip Zambrano, and six other lawmakers, of their parliamentary immunity to allow their future prosecution. The Supreme Court had earlier accused the lawmakers of conspiracy, rebellion and treason, and on Wednesday accused three other opposition legislators of the same crimes. The opposition says Maduro has stacked the court with his own supporters, and the U.S. government this week threatened to sanction all its members. An attempted uprising last week led by Guaido, recognised as the legitimate head of state by the United States and other Western countries, failed to dislodge Maduro, as have a series of U.S. sanctions against his government. Maduro decried the events as an attempted coup. [nL1N22C24H] "One of the principal conspirators of the coup has just been arrested," Diosdado Cabello, head of the Constituent Assembly, said in comments broadcast on state television. "They will have to pay before the courts for the failed coup that they attempted," he said. Zambrano said on Twitter that SEBIN agents had surrounded his vehicle by the headquarters of his Democratic Action party in Caracas' La Florida district. "We were surprised by the SEBIN, and after refusing to let us leave our vehicle, they used a tow truck to forcibly transfer us directly to the (SEBIN headquarters) Helicoide," he said. It was not yet clear if Zambrano was already at the Helicoide. "The regime has kidnapped the first vice president," Guaido said on Twitter. Guaido in January invoked the constitution to assume an interim presidency, denouncing Maduro as illegitimate after he secured re-election last year in a vote widely viewed as fraudulent. The Constituent Assembly removed Guaido's parliamentary immunity in early April, but authorities have not tried to arrest him since then. Earlier on Wednesday, the Supreme Court's head, Maikel Moreno, rebuffed the U.S. government's threats to sanction his court's members if they did not reject Maduro's government and Guaido. The U.S. Treasury Department imposed sanctions in 2017 on Moreno and the seven principal members of the court's constitutional chamber for rulings that "usurped the authority" of the National Assembly. U.S. Vice President Mike Pence said on Tuesday the Trump administration would soon sanction the 25 remaining members of the court. Pence said on Tuesday that the United States was lifting economic sanctions on a former Venezuelan general who turned against Maduro in order to encourage other Maduro allies to follow suit. (Reporting by Angus Berwick and Mayela Armas; Editing by Peter Cooney, Rosalba O'Brien and Lisa Shumaker) This story has not been edited by Firstpost staff and is generated by auto-feed. A month-old battle for Libyas capital Tripoli risks causing an exponential rise in civilian casualties as well as outbreaks of deadly diseases including cholera, the World Health Organization (WHO) said on Wednesday. Geneva: A month-old battle for Libyas capital Tripoli risks causing an exponential rise in civilian casualties as well as outbreaks of deadly diseases including cholera, the World Health Organization (WHO) said on Wednesday. Both sides are using ever more sophisticated weapons in a conflict straining life-saving hospital supplies near front lines that will last only a few more weeks, Dr Syed Jaffar Hussain, WHO representative in Libya, also said in an interview. So far, 443 people have been killed and 2,110 injured since the assault by eastern commander Khalifa Haftars forces on the internationally-recognised government, according to WHO. Twenty-three civilians have died, including four health workers. At least 60,000 people who have fled the fighting in southern outskirts are in makeshift refuges, swelling the city centres nearly half a million population, Hussain added. The numbers will increase definitely, because the fighting is closing in towards the centre, or the more populated area in Tripoli, where then there is a higher likelihood that more and more civilians will be trapped in the cross-fire and there will be more and more civilian casualties, he told Reuters. 'Likelihood of cholera' WHO medical teams have performed 200 major surgeries in past weeks, as the United Nations pushes for a ceasefire in a nation split and anarchic since the 2011 toppling of Muammar Gaddafi. For the time being, looking at the number of injured, and the number of those being affected, these supplies can cater for three to four weeks, said Hussain, a Pakistani expert deployed by WHO in hotspots from Afghanistan to Iraq for the last 20 years. But if there is no ceasefire and there is no reduction in the scale, scope and intensity of the conflict, even if it goes by the current intensity, we will run out of these supplies. Trauma kits to treat the wounded have been stockpiled in Tripoli, Benghazi and Sabha, but medicines for chronic disease patients with diabetes or epilepsy are needed, he said. Because of the crisis, WHO is seeking an additional $12 million from donors on top of its annual $42 million appeal for Libya. We appeal to all the donors, that at the moment even if the (casualty or displacement) numbers are not that high, in the coming weeks these numbers will exponentially increase. With summer coming, those forced out of their homes are susceptible to diarrhoea and diseases due to contaminated water and food, crowding and bad sanitation facilities. There is likelihood now of cholera, for example, in these IDP (internally displaced person) dwellings because the water and sanitation is compromised, he said, also noting risks of hepatitis, typhoid, measles and tuberculosis. This post has been updated. A day after a routine school day was again shattered by gun violence, the emerging details in the STEM School shooting in Colorado were beginning to take shape and drive home how no school shootings are the same. The shooting killed 18-year-old Kendrick Castillo, a senior on the verge of graduating. Media accounts described him as a member of the schools robotics club, a lover of cars and engineering. In interviews, some of Castillos classmates said he had lunged at one of the shooters who entered their classroom. Now, the educators who must turn to calming fears and addressing the grief and trauma of students, parents, colleagues, and themselves, following strategies and practices that have been shown to create safe learning environments are more crucial than focusing on what they think would have prevented the latest school shooting, three experts said. In the shooting in Highlands Ranch, Colo., which also injured eight students, police identified one of the two student suspects as a girl, an unusual occurrence in school shootings, according to experts. While there is no typical profile of a school shooter, almost all school shootings are committed by young men, and half of them by students. The latest shooting is also unusual because police said there are two people responsible for the incident. Most school shootings have been at the hands of a single shooter, with a couple prominent exceptions such as the 1999 massacre at nearby Columbine High School. The latest shooting also happened inside a school that spans all 13 grades, exposing children from a wide variety of ages to the confusion and trauma that stem from such an experience. That could be challenging for educators when they return to school and must plan for and execute on providing long-term and differentiated support for students ranging from 5 to 18, including very young children who may not always be able to articulate their concerns and feelings. They just dont fully comprehend what is happening in their building and on their campus, Andy McGill, the K-12 assistant principal in the West Liberty-Salem, Ohio, school district, where a student shot and injured two others, one seriously, in January 2017. Educators need to be prepared to respond to students fears and the effects of traumaeven years after the incident, he said. Sheldon Greenberg, a professor in the school of education at Johns Hopkins University and a former police officer, said that students ages, comprehension capabilities, perspectives, and cultures are important factors to consider when responding to their needs. But a great concern for Greenberg is how the fear instilled from school shootings as well as the active-shooter drills to prepare for them will impact children overtime. We dont yet know what the long-term effect is going to be of the fear that we are imposing on them, he said. Its wrong..., and we are putting students of varied ages through the same kinds of active-shooter training, with just slight modifications, [and] we dont know what long-term harm that that might be doing to young children, even older students. Staying the Course on Proven Safety Practices While there are similarities between school shootings, and school administrators can learn lessons from each incident, educators have to remember that each event is unique, said Kenneth Trump, the president of National School Safety and Security Services and a consultant to school districts on safety. The key is behaviorsfocusing on threat assessments, training, and protocols to assess and evaluate potential students who are at risk, Trump said. We have to be careful not to dramatically shift away from best practices based on the fact pattern of the latest school shooting, because the next one will have a little bit different fact pattern, and thats what makes it hard to deal with. Superintendents and school administrators have been under tremendous pressures to harden schools as visible and tangible evidence of increased security to parents and legislators since the Marjory Stoneman Douglas shooting in Parkland, Fla., last year, Trump said. But behind the fortified entry ways, additional surveillance cameras, single-point entries, and scanning driver licenses, what matters is the steps educators are taking to build environments to address things like bullying and student mental health concerns, threat assessments, staff training to spot early warning signs, and creating a culture in which students feel comfortable seeking help and reporting their or their classmates concerns so that problems can be identified before they escalate into violence. Many of the best school safety measures are invisibleor certainly less visible, but also more meaningful and effective, Trump said. Police arrested an 18-year-old male student and a younger girl, also a student at STEM School Highlands Ranch, in connection with Tuesdays shooting.* Police have not yet detailed the role that the younger student played in the shooting. We dont see many shootings with two people, and very rarely would one of them be female, said Dewey G. Cornell, an education professor at University of Virginia Curry School of Education and the director of the Virginia Youth Violence Project. This already seems unusual, but I think we have to wait and see what the involvement was for each of these two individuals, he added. School shooting incidents can often set off a kind of contagion effect, with copycat-like threats following, and its important that educators take those threats seriously while also being careful not to overreact, Cornell said. Its really important that schools have good solid training in responding to student threats so that they dont overreact when students make alarming statements, Cornell said. We see them all the time, and in the context of the shooting, those statements seem very troubling and disturbing. More often than not what they reflect is a student who is frustrated and needs assistance. No Single Factor Leads to a School Shooting Police said on Tuesday afternoon that they did not yet have a motive for the shooting. Deborah Temkin, the senior program area director of education at the nonpartisan Child Trends, said there is never a single factor that leads to a school shooting. I think its a tendency of a lot of people to try to look for a cause and immediately try to target that cause in order to prevent future school shootings, Temkin said. But these are really complicated situations. We have to be careful in terms of laying blame... . But in time, Cornell said, there will be explanation for what drove the suspects to act as they did. There are very few of these cases where we dont eventually have an explanation, he said. It may not seem rational or reasonable, but it is an explanation. Trump and Cornell stress that schools remain safe, and educators and law enforcement have thwarted several potential incidentsthough those incidents are less likely to make the news. The overarching message is that our schools are safe places, Cornell said. We have shootings, unfortunately, throughout our community, and actually fewer shootings [in schools] than in restaurants and other public places. There is really a broader problem of helping troubled individuals who are planning and preparing to commit a violent act, Cornell continued. Its terribly tragic when it occurs in schools; its also tragic when it occurs in a theatre or in a restaurant... We need an approach that focuses on young people in schools, but we also need a broader approach that recognizes that schools are actually relatively safe places and that the problem of gun violence is ubiquitous in U.S. society. *NOTE: Although police had identified the younger suspect as female, an attorney for the suspect said during a court appearance on Wednesday that his client uses male pronouns , according to The New York Times. Photo: This undated photo provided by Rachel Short shows Kendrick Castillo, who was killed during a shooting at the STEM School Highlands Ranch on Tuesday, May 7, 2019, in Highlands Ranch, Colo. --Rachel Short via AP Staff Writer Corey Mitchell contributed to this report. Photo: The Canadian Press Police officers guard the entrance to the court building in Podgorica, Montenegro. A Montenegro court on Thursday sentenced 13 people, including two Russian secret service operatives, to up to 15 years in prison after they were convicted of plotting to overthrow the Balkan country's government and prevent it from joining NATO. Chief judge Suzana Mugosa said the two Russians, identified as Eduard Shishmakov and Vladimir Popov, were convicted of "attempted terrorism" and "creating a criminal organization." The two were tried in absentia. Shishmakov received a 15-year prison term while Popov got 12 years. Two leading ethnic Serb opposition politicians, Andrija Mandic and Milan Knezevic, were sentenced to five years each. The verdict said the group planned to take over parliament on election day on Oct. 16, 2016, assassinate then-Prime Minister Milo Djukanovic and install a pro-Russia, anti-NATO leadership. Montenegro joined NATO in June 2017 as the Western military alliance's 29th member despite strong opposition from Moscow, which considers the small Adriatic country a historic Slavic ally and is opposed to NATO's enlargement. The Kremlin has repeatedly denied involvement in the coup attempt. Montenegro's police thwarted the action after receiving tips from Western spy organizations, authorities said. The lawyer of one of the convicted Serbs said he will appeal. "The Russian Federation has been charged and sentenced with this political pamphlet," said Miroje Jovanovic, referring to the verdict. The Russian pair, said to be members of the Russian military secret service agency GRU, co-ordinated the attempted coup from neighbouring Serbia, the verdict said. They were allowed by Serbia's pro-Russia authorities to leave for Moscow despite reports that they operated with sophisticated spy equipment. The judge said that the Russians provided at least 200,000 euros for the purchase of rifles and guns. She said two tried to recruit "as many people as possible to come to the protest" and try to "change the electoral will" and "prevent Montenegro from joining NATO." Photo: The Canadian Press Dennis King appealed for co-operation from his political opponents as he took office Thursday as Prince Edward Island's 33rd premier. The Tory leader and his eight-member cabinet were sworn in by Lt.-Gov. Antoinette Perry during a ceremony held at the Kings Playhouse in Georgetown, P.E.I. In an address before an appreciative hometown audience, King said a new era of Island politics is beginning with the first minority government in the province in well over a century. "Islanders have given all members of this legislative assembly a mandate that requires co-operation and collaboration, with the necessity to work together for the best interest of Prince Edward Island," he said. The Tories won 12 seats in the April 23 election, while the Green party won eight and the Liberals six, creating the first minority outcome in an election since 1890. King said his government would face challenges ahead and stressed the need for cross-party co-operation through much of his speech. "In the end, the success of Prince Edward Island during this mandate will be ultimately judged by the level of commitment of all three parties to work together," he said. "There is work to do. It's important work that people want us to do, and we must do it together." He also urged his cabinet to work with collaboration in mind. "I encourage you to lead with confidence and lead with humility," said King. "Be bold, be courageous, be different, be kind. Co-operate with your legislative colleagues and be open to good ideas." King was sworn in with ministerial responsibilities for intergovernmental affairs, Indigenous relations, and Acadian and francophone affairs. Darlene Compton is deputy premier, minister of finance and the minister responsible for the status of women, while James Aylward is the new health minister. Madison Erhardt Don't be alarmed if you see a huge bike rolling through downtown Kelowna. The Heart and Stroke Foundations 26h annual Big Bike Ride got underway Wednesday and continues through Friday. Local businesses organize teams while raising funds for the big ride. The event supports heart disease and stroke research. Riders gear up on Cawston Avenue and take in a two-kilometre ride around the downtown. ''We have a three-fold mission. It's to promote health in the first place, save lives, and then the third piece is to enhance recovery because there are currently 1.6 million Canadians living with the effects of heart disease and stroke,'' said spokesperson Wendy Wright. On Tuesday, West Kelowna businesses raised $15,000. The next stop on the tour is set for Vernon on Monday. For more information, click here. The OnePlus 7 Series is coming next week, and nothing can stop it! Keeping up with the tradition, OnePlus is giving its fans a chance to experience the OnePlus 7 series smartphones with one-of-a-kind OnePlus Experience Pop-Up. As of this 2019, OnePlus 7 Pro is arguably one of the more curious phones mostly because of its features, including HDR10+ certified screen, A+ certification from DisplayMate, UFS 3.0 and 3x zoom camera . The OnePlus Pop-up starts at 7 pm on May 17 at Amphitheatre, Select City Walk, New Delhi. Moreover, the Experience Pop-Up will be a unique, experiential zone where users and the community can come together to get their hands on the latest flagship from the company, the OnePlus 7 Pro. In addition to it, there will also be opportunities to meet up with both OnePlus team members and, of course, like-minded OnePlus fans. To make it more interactive, OnePlus will conduct exclusive workshops and exciting events over the month including gaming leagues, content creation and photography workshops as well. OnePlus will also be hosting limited stock pop-up stores across 7 major cities in India where attendees will be the first to get their hands on the device. The OnePlus pop-ups, starting at 7 pm on May 15, will be hosted in Bangalore, New Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Pune, Chennai and Ahmedabad. Furthermore, the OnePlus 7 Pro will be available for purchase at the Experience Pop-Up as well as other pop-ups. Those who grab the device at the earliest has a chance to receive exclusive goodies including OnePlus Type-C Bullets, Netflix and Amazon Vouchers, along with OnePlus back cases, OnePlus tote bags and OnePlus Never Settle T-shirts. OnePlus has started OnePlus 7 Pro pre-bookings on Amazon.in and offers 6 months free one-time screen replacement for all pre-bookings. The much-awaited OnePlus 7 Pro is launching globally in simultaneous launch events in New York, London and Bengaluru on May 14. For those who wont be able to attend the launch, OnePlus will let you witness the event through the live streaming link here starting 8:15 PM IST on May 14th. Lenovo has launched its EGO digital smartwatch. It has a monochrome screen with night light mode, promises 20 days battery life, offers 24/7 heart-rate tracking, offers activity and scientific sleep monitoring, and is water resistant up to 50 meters so it can be used as a swim tracker. It also has smart features like remote camera and vibrating notifications along with alerts for phone calls, emails, text messages, and other social media apps. Lenovo EGO smartwatch (HX07) specifications 1.6-inch anti-reflective monochrome display with night light mode Bluetooth 4.0, Compatible with iOS and Android smartphones Activity tracking, Sleep tracking, Swim tracking Real-time heart rate monitoring Remote camera feature to take a picture with a single tap on the display screen of the smartwatch Vibration-based alarm Water-resistant 5ATM (50 meters) Dimensions: 55 x 48 x 15.8 mm; Weight: 42g 20 Days Battery Life, Magnetic charging The Lenovo EGO is priced at Rs. 1,999 and will be available exclusively on Flipkart and Croma from tomorrow, 10th May 2019. Barrick Gold Corporation (NYSE:GOLD) Q1 2019 Earnings Call , 11:00 a.m. ET Contents: Prepared Remarks Questions and Answers Call Participants Prepared Remarks: Operator Ladies and gentlemen, thank you for standing by. This is the conference operator. Welcome to the Barrick 2019 First Quarter Results Conference Call. During the presentation, all participants are in listen-only mode. Following the presentation, we will conduct a question-and-answer session. (Operator Instructions) As a reminder, this conference call is being recorded and the replay will be available on Barrick's website later today May 8th 2019. I would now like to turn the conference over to Mark Bristow, CEO for Barrick. Please go ahead. Mark Bristow -- President and Chief Executive Officer Thank you very much and I'll start again and good morning ladies and gentlemen. Welcome to this -- our first results presentation as a merged Barrick and Randgold. And as I'm sure you would have already noticed and if you had followed some of the interviews this morning, we've certainly got off to a good start. The first quarter's performance was both positive and productive with a strong across the Board delivery from all the operations, topped by the transformative and long-overdue creation of the Nevada joint venture. It's worth noting again that the Barrick-Randgold merger was a very strategic one. I think it's important that I stress this. Designed to produce a company capable of rising above an industry in disarray, to become its most valued gold business. In the short time, the two companies have been together we've made significant progress toward the goals we set when we shared the deal with you and our investors and other stakeholders. But I would also stress that speed is not necessarily of the essence when you're playing a long game. Both Barrick and Randgold were built on the solid foundation of discovery, development, and early acquisitions and that future focus vision still directs our strategy today. So, whether you're a fund manager or a Finance Minister, don't look to us for instant gratification or easy pickings. The stakeholders who will reap our rewards are those who share our long-term vision and invest in or work with us as partners and that's really our commitment. And, in fact, this industry needs that to be able to recover its rightful place and become relevant again as an industry you can invest in. Please take note of the cautionary statement as presented on the screen and for those who would like to read them, they are in your pack. I'll start as usual with a look at our health and safety record, which although void of fatalities, remains an area of business which needs improvement and certainly it has my focus. While Africa held steady, we have more to do in both North and Latin America and this is receiving a lot of attention not only for me, but from the executive team as well as the mine management. It's an issue that is of fundamental importance to a heavy engineering budget business such as mining and we are committed to creating an injury-free working environment across the group. Similarly, the cardinal importance we have assigned to sustainability demands that we care for the environment and our communities around our mines. We are reviewing all our community-led investments to ensure that they will create real value for the life of the mine and beyond. We are also addressing the legacy challenges in some countries. In the meantime, it's pleasing to note that there were no class one environmental incidents in Q1 and that all sites in Africa and in the Middle East have completed their ISO 14001 recertification or surveillance audits and with Latin and North American audits due in Q2 and Q3. Turning now to the operations, these are the highlights of the quarter. The quarter-on-quarter operational comparisons are obviously skewed by the merger, but it's important to note that all the operations delivered on plan and even on a per share basis, the adjusted earnings were significantly higher. We have made rapid progress with integrating the organization, streamlining processes, and ensuring that all sites have the geological, operational, and technical capability to meet their business objectives. As we reported earlier, the group has been divided into three geographical regions; each with a very strong executive and small, but effective, support team. In line with my belief that people should be where they make the most significant contribution to delivering against our strategic objectives, we have reduced the Toronto corporate office to around 70 people. Each and every one of those people has an important real and focused role in Barrick's business and we will be continuing to refine and rationalize our support structure with a focus now shifting to the non-mine site locations outside Toronto. We're also making rapid progress with the establishment of the Nevada joint venture. There are a few pronunciations I'm still working on as you all make up when I go through this presentation. But for obvious reasons has been named and today we announced the formal name of this joint venture. As you know we are incorporating the joint venture into an organization into a company and that company will be called Nevada Gold Mines. And we're going to disclose the logo just now, a little while later. And by the way, we didn't employ anyone to do this. We did it ourselves. And a little bit more as I say about that a little later. The organizational structures are being finalized and we're working toward realizing the synergies and cost reduction opportunities and those have not changed. I'll talk you through the other highlights -- I will talk you through the other highlights on this slide when we get to their respective operations. Looking at the operating results. Gold production was up which was great and costs were a little better. That means better than what we thought, which we is down -- or what we planned for. And copper the copper assets all made a real contribution to the bottom-line and they were in line on production and slightly lower on the costs. So as I pointed out to some of the journalists I've already interviewed with today is that apart from the closing assets every single other assets in Barrick made a contribution to the bottom-line, which is a fantastic way to start a business like this. And every way you cut the results, it's a solid set of results that came in ahead of market consensus as you would have noticed. And net cash from the operations is up 27% supporting the payment of a dividend and I think it's also critical is that we can afford our dividend. And when you look at the balance sheet, the $500-odd million that came in from Randgold is still there and it's been -- it's offset on the net cash position. So again, we managed this business. There was cost as you know in this quarter on the transaction, but all-in-all the financial results were at best described as robust. And when you look at the net debt, its -- we now can boast a strong balance sheet relative to the rest of our peer group. We start our -- review of operations in Nevada where all our operations have been integrated into a single complex under a single Executive General Manager to wheel each operations manager reports. While there were -- there will be further changes as you would imagine within the -- as we roll-out the Nevada joint venture, this principle will be carried over in the new structure and that's quite important. And I think some of you -- some of the analysts have looked for more clarity. You'll see that we desegregated Cortez and Goldstrike in our numbers today. We'll continue to do that working toward being more transparent and allowing you to really understand our business and manage it. And what Ive always done as you know in my career is my intention is to give you an understanding of our business, so that you get the model right. I'm not intending to let you try and guess what our business plan is. We're going to give it to you and we're going to work on getting more granular as we go along. At Cortez production is transitioning as we messaged from as far as last year. The open pit -- the high-grade open pit what we call CHOP -- Cortez Hill Open Pit more toward the underground and lower-grade open pits and that has impacted on our results. It was always messaged that way and so it shouldn't be a surprise to anyone. That shift to underground and higher grades will continue all the way out to 2022 and we've already started to see the improvement and the bigger contribution from the underground, which we call CHUG -- Cortez Hills Underground Operations. And again, we've got the Deep South not to be confused with South Deep, which will continue to expand that contribution. So Goldstrike's production was down because of the preferential treatment given to Cortez higher grade underground ore relative to the previous quarter. So again, we are not working quarter-on-quarter, but this is our plan because we have to replace the higher-grade open pit ore and so there was an offset and again that ore that we stockpiled from Goldstrike will go through the rest this quarter. But again, we saw improvements in throughput and in recoveries from the TCM circuit at the autoclave from Goldstrike so that was good. And then Turquoise Ridge achieved a record production in the month of March mining and hoisting more than 80,000 tons and Turquoise Ridge-Twin Creeks combination is a very important part of the Nevada synergies that we are working toward. And the third shaft, pre-collar construction for the Turquoise Ridge. The third shaft was completed and pre-sink activities have started. And our capital team is fully engaged with the contract that to make sure that we keep that project on track. Now moving back, voila, there is the logo. It's about as good as we're going to do on the launch. And how the -- look at the Nevada Joint Venture, which we expect to get its final sign-off at the end of this current quarter. In the meantime as I noted earlier, we are making exceptional progress in restructuring this new business. And this is the new logo which we selected in a democratic way, sort of, consulted and democratic way and with our colleagues from Newmont Goldcorp. And as the map shows the properties Elko comprised of is; Cortez, Goldstrike, Turquoise Ridge and Goldrush from Barrick side; and Carlin, Twin Creeks, Phoenix, Long Canyon and Lone Tree from Newmont Goldcorp side. And as also has been reported Barrick will operate and own 61.5% of the business. And it's worth noting that the mines making up the joint venture produced in excess of 4 million ounces of gold in 2018 making it the single largest producer of gold as a complex in the world and significantly more than the next biggest contributor. And I think that's and then the Olympiad Complex at Prokopyevsk in Siberia. I must say that the Nevada mines is being structured in a great spirit of cooperation between Barrick and Newmont Goldcorp and excitement as well not only about the new business, but also the opportunities that this business is going to unlock. Somebody said the other day that -- this is a deal that was tried so many times and but one thing that was always consistent that everyone always recognized the logic of it although it didn't happen. And so it's very pleasing for us to be part of ultimately getting to that point. In this regard I'd also like to draw your attention to the first new opportunity even before weve closed the transaction and that is the Cove McCoy joint venture bullet hole intersection that we announced recently with our partners and our partners at Premier. And as you can see, the -- as I'm sure you noted, that's been a very significant intersection. Our geologists are quite excited about exactly that bullet hole. And what's important about it, is it's in a different part. It's not in the traditional sort of Carlin-style trends that post the other big deposits in Nevada. And it's also, definitely, highlights the significance and opportunity that we believe that this joint venture will continue to unlock in Nevada. I mean, I'm a geologist and it's really an amazing place. It's like the [indiscernible] was in the sort of 80s, 70s and 80s. There's some very significant -- I mean, you draw intersections there that I've never seen before. So -- and I think, this just reinforces the potential of Nevada and ready -- reinforces my and Barrick's commitment and determination to increase and maintain a dominant presence in this geological address. At the Goldrush project the twin exploration decline development accelerated during the quarter and each has now advanced some 680 meters out of the planned 4,000 meters. A dedicated manager -- we've restructured all the management across the Barrick Group, but specifically for Goldrush we now have a dedicated manager on the feasibility side of Goldrush and we put the decline responsibility under the underground manager at the Cortez mine. We will also continue to coordinate the Goldrush-Fourmile exploration efforts, consolidating the geological models to further understanding of the mineralized corridor between the two and I'm going to show you a slide just now. But there's -- we've got eight drill rigs at Fourmile with those eight yellow circles on the slide. As you know Fourmile has initially been excluded from the Nevada joint venture until the full extent of the mineralization has been determined and the feasibility work has been completed. And then under the agreement, we have, on certain conditions, of course, the ability to roll it back into the joint venture. We are also been reviewing the existing geotechnical data on all of Barrick's mines, but with a particular emphasis on the operations in Nevada and Goldrush. In the case of Goldrush-Fourmile and all of the Nevada underground mines, we believe this will help us to optimize final mining layups and also the mining methods and we're quite excited about the opportunity. What's happened in Nevada is, because of the ground conditions and they're very variable is that, both on the Newmont Goldcorp side and on the Barrick side, we tended to go to the worst possible rock integrity and design accordingly, but that's quite variable and there's some very competent parts of Nevada, which definitely support that long-haul open skirting with [indiscernible] and with that comes very significant deficiencies. So we're expecting to change a lot of the mining methodology, both within the Barrick assets and particularly Goldrush, as well as in some of the Newmont Goldcorp assets. And there's an example and I thought you'd appreciate this. This is the Goldrush-Fourmile plot of the drilling results to-date with the hot colors being -- sorry, red above 5 grams a tonne. Average grade for total resource about 15 million ounces now, including inferred for Goldrush and we've just started declaring the initial resources out of Fourmile, as you would see in the documentation. But you can see the extent of this mineralization is continuous and it's really is a world-class occurrence. In drilling, as you saw in the previous slide, is ongoing. And as far as Goldrush goes, we are now starting to extend the drilling on the edges of the ore body and the big focus in Fourmile is to continue to build out of the geological model. And then, once we start getting that quoting together we will start working toward infilling it in. And then, I think, you'll start seeing some consistent contributions to the growth in the declared inventories whether it's in resources or reserves. Moving then on to Canada. Hemlo finished pretty much on target for the quarter, despite the challenging start to the year and with the aim of making Hemlo a Tier 2 asset, its team is currently optimizing the mine design and schedule, based on quite different geological modeling and updating, which we've been doing and we've done a lot of geotechnical work again at Hemlo. And while it's still early days in that project, the potential to bring cash flow forward and add reserves to Hemlo is very encouraging. And so, whatever happens going forward, Hemlo is going to be a different asset and the challenge to the team is, can we make it into a Tier 1 asset, which then we would be -- it would be a keeper in our portfolio. So where we've had normally, what we have in our portfolio is Tier 1, Tier 2 and then we have assets that we are looking to realize and give to somebody else to run. Hemlo is a strategic asset, and that it benefits more because of the tax shield that we have in this country. So it always will provided, we can create positive cash flow, it always delivers more value than an asset that doesn't have that sort of tax protection. So now we come to the biggest challenge of all and that is for me to try and pronounce Pueblo Viejo. How did I go? In the Dominican Republic, everyone's been sort of trying to get me to practice this and my assistant actually wrote the phonetics down. Yes. We need -- well, we've got some Spanish people. That doesn't help much either. But anyway, Pueblo Viejo posted another good performance, despite lower grades, which were offset by improvements in recovery and throughput, enabling the mine to beat its production plans, which was very pleasing. As with other Latin American operations, there's been an increase in focus on mineral resource management. Now all our assets have mineral resource managers already. They also almost all of them have different management. So we've done a lot of change in the organization, not necessarily a change out, but changed around and we've moved people around and given people a different focus and it's brought a lot of energy to our team. And all indications so far is that there's significant potential to convert some 7 million ounces in the short term of measured and indicated resources to probable reserve with still a lot more to come. And PV has rarely been an exciting discovery for us. We knew it was a good asset and we did the due diligence, but certainly the more we look at it as a team, the more opportunity we've seen. And a lot of it driven by the scoping studies to support a plant expansion. Again, as you know the Barrick team has been talking about expansion at PV for some time. And we've now firmly set on a flow sheet where we believe we can deliver a plan that meets all our investment criteria and we will be able to support plus 800,000 ounce production profile way out after 2022. And it'll be a big project costing some $1.3 billion and we are very excited about this. And the other next step of course is we expect to complete the pre-feasibility study this year in fact in quarter three and then the full feasibility study during next year. So again an exciting growth project for us. Despite operational and management concerns as I shared with you last time we chatted, Veladero in Argentina also had a satisfactory quarter after a poor start in the year. And there's been a big focus on efficiencies and cost have come down considerably on the back of business improvement initiatives. And again, the gap in Veladero is that we've got a lot of work to do to catch up and infill the drill spacing. The drill spacing is a bit wide still and so you end up with surprises both good and bad. And as you know and those people who know me, the one thing I'm fully committed to is we take the risks out of grade by drilling the orebodies properly. So we've got a big program in Veladero to weve redone, weve reloged all the core. We've now got the drill programs running together shorten up the drill spacings and that will give us a lot more confidence in our plan. We've got about six years of life there. And then the big focus has shifted to looking for more, because we'd like to extend that and we haven't got a lot to deliver to be able to take that asset to a Tier 1 category. As I pointed out, there's been a strong drive on brownfields and new mine greenfields exploration to add ounces and extend the mine plan and the drilling programs have been ongoing. And we put some of our really top people down into South America to drive those. Exploration teams are also evaluating targets across the Frontera District around Veladero and also further south at Del Carmen we've -- and Rojo Grande we've got some really good intersections. And again, it's Veladero look-alike target slightly lower grade, but still significant and better infrastructure than what Veladero had when we first discovered it. In Papua New Guinea, Porgera had a good quarter despite again challenges rolling out after the earthquake of last year and Porgera also has the potential to be a Tier 1 asset. But it really needs additional investment for more drilling programs as well as infrastructure and equipment capital to enable it to reduce its operating cost. It's really been quite a neglected asset. It's a real geological Tier 1 opportunity. Yes, this mine has been operating for 28 years. And from our assessment of it, it certainly has got another at least 22 year. So it's not an insignificant asset in our portfolio. As you know Porgera operate in a difficult jurisdiction and like our African mines has to work hard to secure its social license. And those people who were at the AGM yesterday would have experienced what has become quite sort of a repeated thing. Again, I believe we have the skills to be able to work and change that risk profile at least with our relationships with the communities. Big focus for Porgera is the renewal of the special mining license and we are fully engaged successfully on this. We've had the first round of public consultation which went very well. We are engaged with the Prime Minister and his administrators. As you know there's a lot of dynamic politics in PNG at the moment, so we are managing the situation and working to continue the process of renewing that license. We cross now to Africa where our Loulo-Gounkoto complex in Mali met its guidance as its other operations. We're paying a lot of attention to replacing the reserves that are depleted by mining and that's with those assets are both Loulo-Gounkoto and Kibali as they had a really good run. And so far, we've been able to extend the life of the mine and there's still significant opportunity in the immediate vicinity of Loulo and Gounkoto. Loulo and Gounkoto are located on part of a very significant geological province, which we refer to as the Kedougou-Kenieba Inlier. And in fact the structure that hosts that mineralization including of course the Sadiola Enga assets in the north and [Indiscernible] gold assets in the south. It's a very long structure to call the Senegal mining and share and we control 70 kilometers of this truck of that share just within the Loulo-Gounkoto mining licenses. And additionally, we also have Bambadji on the western side of the border in Senegal and Bakolobi projects on the same structure. The Damarco (ph) belt which hosts Massawa and the Tigrinya assets are on the other side of that inlier as you can see on that slide. At Gounkoto specifically exploration is highlighted the potential for a material contribution to the underground project below the super pit and we're working now on drilling that out and designing the interface between the open pit, the super pit and the higher-grade underground resources below that pit. The Yalea structure is also delivering significant extensions to the high grade deeper orebodies and are drilling and we've taken a step back as well and looked just it's worth remembering that Loulo or Yalea was this initial pit, it was about 1.5 million ounces and there's no way -- and we didn't appreciate what we would discover below that pit, slightly removed. This is slightly different orebody. And so, we've gone back to that structure, that's the orebody that you call the purple patch which really made the Loulo-Gounkoto project. And we've taken a step back. As you see there's about a 7 kilometers stripe. Outside the Yalea drilling there's not much information below 100 meters below surface, so we've been modeling the geology and looking to extend our search below the current drilling dips. And again we think that there's opportunity to make additional discoveries. Back then to Senegal and Massawa, as you know Massawa is currently in the process of applying for its mining license and the related permitting to be able to start to the development of the mine. And at the same time we're still exploring at Massawa. We've got drill rigs running, looking to add to the reserve base. Currently the reserves are just shy of 3 million-ounce hurdle rate to make it a Tier II asset in our portfolio. And back in the Central Africa and the Democratic Republic of Congo, Kibali made another strong start to the year as you would've seen in our press releases, achieving a record for tonnes hoisted from the underground shaft in March which is very significant for us and also being able to maintain recovery at the nameplate rate which is important. Lower river levels during the dry season impacted on the availability of hydropower and that drove the costs up slightly. Like Loulo-Gounkoto, Kibali's lease exploration program continues to deliver sustained mineral resource and reserve growth and latest results show for instance up in the top left hand of the diagram, the opportunity to coalesce Sessenge open pit and Gorumbwa open pit with the up depth extensions of the 9,000 lode and to potentially a super pit like we've got in Gounkoto. And definition drilling recently on the 11,000 lode, which you see is the down dip extension that has really highlighted a significant potential for that orebody. And what's more is it really encourages one because we keep finding new -- so Kibali is like a bundle of cigars and we keep finding these new cigars on the way down and we -- there's a mine that still has a lot of legs in. And again -- it's already a 10-year life and $1000 gold price and we have every expectation for that to continue to be replaced. And then on the greater sort of host structure which we refer to as KZ structure, we have many more targets and potential to continue to add reserves and then in particular open the pitiable resources and reserves and that really brings -- keeps the flexibility of Kibali, its mining flexibility if we can continue to ensure that we've got some open pit material that will support the high-grade underground reserves. Zooming out ,now a little further we feel see a vast gold district which we will refer to as the Congo Craton which extends from the Northeastern part of the DRC down into Tanzania. And that brings me to the subject of Tanzania and Acacia and we continue to engage with the governments and the Board of Acacia regarding the standoff that they've got themselves into. And the long impasse has already destroyed a great deal of value and getting the conflicted parties to see that at this stage almost any solution is better than none. And that's proving difficult, I might add. Nevertheless as you know we are full of commitment and tenacity and then I've got no doubt that we will eventually get there. And as I've said before just about any solution is a good one for all stakeholders. We are engaged and somebody -- there was a rumour that we have stepped back. We are still engaged and seeking to settle key documents and move this process is forward in a manner which is acceptable to all the stakeholders. Just briefly, this is a snapshot of our other mines. Tongon was again challenged by mechanical mishaps and power supply issues and just missed its production target although, it's still within its guidance and we're comfortable with that. At Kalgoorlie, attributable gold production was 5% lower at 55,000 ounces and compared to that previous quarter and primarily due to combination of lower grade and more throughput being a result of some weather issues during the quarter. Lagunas Norte's production declined in line with expectations as the mine ages and it will be put on care and maintenance toward the end of this year with the objective that we'll continue to explore. And there's a lot of sulfide and carboniferous material reserves potential and the idea is -- the question is can we delineate enough for Lagunas to become a asset within our portfolio? Or will we only get to a point where it's actually -- we're able to realize that asset? And that's really the focus for Lagunas Norte going forward. And then Morila is moving toward closure and Golden Sunlight is largely ceased mining with its last mall run scheduled for later this month. Elsewhere across the Barrick portfolio, the copper mines holded reasonably well with Lumwana and Jabal Sayid both exceeding our expectations and all the mines making a contribution to the bottom line. In fact, all the assets, as I said earlier, except for the rightsizing assets made a contribution to the bottom line. As highlighted here, gold mining is all about owning high quality ounces. Both Barrick and Randgold have a history of making world-class grassroots exploration discoveries as well as major reserve and resource additions to acquire assets as shown here. And maybe because of the recent past you forget this, but Barrick made some very, very significant discoveries in its time, and the geological exploration D&A is still very much alive in the country, and we've certainly contributed to that and contributing our team. And this long life high grade reserve base is supported by an intense company focus on mineral resource management, which we've now embedded across the organization. And as I indicated, when we announced the merger is we are shifting from a focus on cash flow or high grading assets to really -- and so when that happens we tend to end -- it was the last thing to do, as I've said before, but now that we've got the balance sheet that's very manageable, we need a shift back to being driven by our orebodies, the optimal orebody management. And because when you just focus on grade, you neglect the discipline of efficiency and cost. And so that's what we're doing now. As we are shifting that back to focusing on efficiencies and cost, of course, the orebody modeling itself. And that doesn't mean to say that we're not focused and cash flow like somebody picked up incorrectly this morning. We want to have the same cash flow as in the past, but just offer lower grade base. In other words we want to focus on bringing our cut-off grades down, and a good example is Turquoise Ridge where we currently are running at over 9 grams a tonne cutoff grade. That's more than double Randgold's reserve rate, and we are absolutely clear that we will get that done significantly. First target is two dots down, so that's 7 and then we believe we can get it down to five and below that. And that really opens up a whole new set of ounces in the reserve and a great tonnage curve. And again, in Nevada has many of those opportunities and they're driven by the synergies that the joint venture will bring. Everything we do in Barrick is designed to create value and to properly evaluate our assets, we have flexed them across the curve you see here. At the base, our exploration programs and the projects that will deliver future value. In the middle are our Tier 1 and Tier 2 assets, and those which have the potential to acquire that status, as I've discussed in my presentation. And the flag that at the top holds those assets, which in terms of our strategic criteria could do better with different owners as we do not necessarily have the leverage left in them to add value, but they don't have the leverage and that's what mining business is all about is. Can we -- where do we -- where can we best allocate our time to lever that assets to exploit the optionality of the market pricing as well as the geological potential. That does not mean that any of those assets do not offer a value, and in fact apart from the closure size of us as I already said, we have no leaders in our portfolio. Every one of them made a contribution to the bottom line. Preparations to bring some of these assets to account have already started, and I believe we will be able to deliver a substantial part of the process by next year as indicated when we presented the merger transaction initially. So given our solid operational performance for the first quarter, Barrick I'm absolutely convinced is back and on track. And it's on track to deliver against its plans for the year and beyond. However, when one looks at mine plans and replacement rates, it is clear that the industry as a whole is not in good shape, and I've been saying that for some time. And again, we see the industry touring with survival style merges and acquisitions, and again neglecting the requirement to continue to invest in the future of our industry. And so, one thing I'm sure of is that we are good to go, and I must say it's been an absolute privilege to work with the team in Barrick and to see the response and the agility out of those three teams as we deal with and we've certainly still got challenges, but also you've seen the results of that effort. And there are very few people left in Barrick, who you have to tell twice to do anything and so I'm really looking forward to continuing to build on what we've started in this company. This quarter has seen a great start, and I'm confident that we are absolutely well on our way to achieving our strategic objective of becoming the world's most valued gold-mining business, and I say that with a focus on valued, value or valuable and that gets back again to that conversation we had with Catherine, not this Catherine but the other Catherine yesterday at the AGM. Because valued means that everyone looks at Barrick and says that's the company you want to be part. That's the company you want to stop and that's the company would like to work for, and we already believe that people that run it act like owners and are absolutely committed to delivering a sustainable returns not only for its shareholders, but all other stakeholders associated with this. So, thank you very much for your attention, and we'd be delighted to take any questions you might have. And Jenny, I'm not sure how you want to manage this. Operator -- President and Chief Executive Officer Start with the room. Mark Bristow -- President and Chief Executive Officer Start with the room. Okay. All right. Well, there we are. Questions and Answers: Operator We will begin the question-and-answer session. (Operator Instructions) As callers join the queue, we will take questions from the room first. Mark Bristow -- President and Chief Executive Officer We also ask that before asking your question, please introduce yourself. Greg Barnes -- TD. Mark or Catherine -- Analyst It's Greg Barnes from TD. Mark or Catherine, there was no discussion in this presentation about the synergies in Nevada. You've had more time to look at that. You promised extremely large numbers, $500 million right out of the gate. Has your thinking changed? Could you -- are you prepared to give us more thoughts on where you think that can go on, how the numbers would evolve over the next several years? Mark Bristow -- President and Chief Executive Officer The short answer is it hasn't changed, and the second point is we'll tell you when we close. We'll give you more color. I mean, we are working on it. So what we've got is work streams on that, but there's a lot of work to do. I mean, the whole combination -- it's been exciting to see the consensus among both teams about being able to deliver on those synergies. There have been some synergies that are not going to be as good as what we thought as we get into the reeds around some of the operational -- underground operations, but at the same time we discovered new opportunities, which will be able to offset that. So we're comfortable with our target of getting to that $4.7 billion NPV of the synergies. Catherine Raw -- Executive Managing Director To give you some color, subpar management is one that is coming out better than we anticipated and being able to look at what their feeds are versus ours and being able to maximize, so those are the sort of things that we--re focusing on now. Mark Bristow -- President and Chief Executive Officer And again I think we only get the full value of this combined team once we close, right now there's been a massive amount of work on permitting and being prepared to put the permit applications in to be able to transport and change the way, there's been an enormous amount of work on the whole supply chain procurement, effectiveness and efficiencies and just the people. So we've now got a management team sorted out. Everyone's got a place and the leader is Greg Walker, our Head of Operations for Catherine's division. He will take on the role as Executive Managing Director, and underneath him, we again managed to balance the leadership between the Barrick and the Newmont Goldcorp people. Very well and what's even more encouraging for me is some of the Newmont Goldcorp senior general managers are retiring and we've been able to go past them collectively and find really quality younger people who want to make this their career and they've been operating in those assets for some time. So it's a really an exciting human capital opportunity as well as the actual physical mining synergies and I'm sure that we'll bring either more innovative synergies out of the business as we go along. Greg Barnes -- TD. Mark or Catherine -- Analyst I just want to follow-up your comments about the ground conditions in Nevada and the changes you're making. Is that going to speed things up underground or slow it down, or is it going to? Mark Bristow -- President and Chief Executive Officer It's a little bit of both. It's a good question. Very good. So the first thing is we need to do a lot more geotech work. So we've had the full team dedicated. We started with Goldrush. We've done Turquoise Ridge, and we've got a lot to do in the Newmont assets, but equally Newmont has come to the same conclusion. And they've recently employed some very high quality geotech engineer's, people who we know well and who will be joining our team. So it's -- collectively both sides have recognized the importance of geotech work. Where we grew up, where I grew up that's like falling off a bus. They're running deeply and South African mines the whole geotech side of mine planning, whereas, traditionally Nevada has really focused on just the lowest common denominator effectively and designing everything high cost, very conservative mine plans, and we've already in CHUG, Cortez Hills underground we've already initiated a long-haul open stopping with backfill and where our efficiencies are a whole lot better. So there's a lot of opportunity. Goldstrike as well, a lot of the parts of Goldstrike, again we feel that having done the first bit of geotech work and we're catching up with the drilling, we've redirected some of the underground drill rigs to actually drill geotech holes because it's going to be critical in the mine design. And again we feel that it might delays things a little bit initially, but that's why we're putting in those declines. Is it really exploration and evaluation? But in the long-term, it will speed things up. And I'll just give you another example. The work -- the intersections and the rock net (ph) work that we're doing on Fourmile that's a whole solidified radiated, classic radiated, Colin radiated mineral deposit, which stands up very well. So we are very encouraged by what we see from the initial intersections and definitely that mass mining, underground mining will be -- definitely be possible in the Fourmile area. And I can wrap it on before we can go to the work that has been done at Carlin underground as well, and there's a lot of work to be done there, because you know again that's technically quite a challenging underground mine. And again our work that we're doing and the design and planning we're doing, I think will come up with some opportunities. We are replanning all of Barrick's mines and we expect to do the same on the other side of the Nevada JV as well. Stephen Walker -- RBC Capital Markets. -- Analyst Mark, Stephen Walker here with RBC Capital Markets. You talked about Cortez Hills underground and the potential to take the cutoff grade from nine to seven to five grams. Mark Bristow -- President and Chief Executive Officer That's Turquoise Ridge. Stephen Walker -- RBC Capital Markets -- Analyst Turquoise Ridge, sorry. And if you look at the several analysis for underground at Goldstrike and at Cortez Hills, does the geometry of the ore deposits allow you to increase the volume, and secondly does the mining cost decline -- decline in mining cost that you're starting to look at allow you to maintain the margins, as you drop, the cutoff grade for both at Turquoise Ridge and at Goldstrike? Mark Bristow -- President and Chief Executive Officer Yeah. I think that's I mean look in Turquoise Ridge is a spectacular example of right now we've been mining and I mean the margin -- the costs that Newmont Gold Corp were charging us, to process that ore set the cutoff grade. And so, effectively a bit like in the old days in South Africa, we were mining through, 5-gram ore and leaving it behind. Ultimately, that becomes viable because you've now got it developed in the long run. But what the combination with Twin Creeks is going to do is we now are only paying for the real cost of the processing facility. And so, that drops the cost significantly. I want to say, $45. That's 1.5 gram just there. So that brings a whole lot of what we call wide areas, or areas that are developed and below the cutoff grades, suddenly become above the cutoff grades without any capital requirements as an example. So, there's an opportunity to that. And of course, you can't -- you can't apply long-haul as in stepping to narrow orebodies, but you can through a big wide orebodies and there are lots of those in Nevada. And again, so, when you look at the CHUG underground, the old CHUG underground which is flatter ore body and it was narrow. And you can't go and do that. But on the Deep South and the upper levels of that is that's quite a complicate. I'm just getting used to the terminology. But that trend which we already are mining and we just developed the declines down. And so that and the reason we call Deep South is below the water table, all of the water table. So yeah OK. So it's the middle of that's why I understand that. So we are really mining the middle there. And all that is bulk mining. And that brings significant improvements in costs. And that will continue to happen. And again that design and Goldrush we believe that it will change that mine. And our focus in Goldrush is to really make it very modern new world style, type of mine, with the knowledge that we've got. And we should be able to do that. Turquoise Ridge is going to be halfway. And right now we just have been Trailing Road hitters so, self-manner and again we believe that, there's enormous opportunity with that. Because you know Turquoise Ridge is -- part of Turquoise Ridge traditionally very bad ground. And so, not to blast it very changes the risk profile of support et cetera. And then again just to add to that, our automation initiative. So what we did is we now people thought throughout the sort of digital and automation initiatives. But again we just transferred investing to the mines, where and so right now we brought some really exciting pockets of automation, whether it's open pit, drilling or haulage. And we are actually, at the point now where we trailing the automatic trucks with alongside men trucks. Now that artificial intelligence is important to be able to manage that space around the truck. And again, Kibali, is the leader in proper automation, where you'd have one operator, on surface. And he are she and its important part is that she part, is able to run three different operating sections on their own because it's automated. So again -- and again what we've done in the automation side is we've said, we challenged the team to say we want to do this efficiencies. We just don't want to automate for the sake of automation. And so, again I think over the next couple of years you'll see that the benefits of that effort. Josh Wolfson -- Analyst Josh Wolfson at Desjardins, Mark you mentioned a pretty sizable capital member for the Pueblo Viejo projects. When I think about that, bigger picture there's one aspect which is the major tailings expansion, unlocks a lot of ounces. And then the second part which allows you to process a lot of that or a lot earlier. But there's not the margin opportunity there. So, in the past you talked about that project providing very good returns and easily surpassing threshold hurdles. So, what are we missing with that kind of capital number? How does it work? Mark Bristow -- President and Chief Executive Officer So looking at -- so conceptually imagine 27 million ounces conceptually with a $1.3 billion investment, 800,000-plus ounces a year, at sort of the costs that you see now, we don't have to -- you could do it your own and so it makes real returns significant returns. So and part of that -- so you're right, that we needed a tailings disposal, site that will support that sort of size of mine, and we are working on that. We've got a number of targets that we're evaluating or potential sites that we're evaluating. And then the process side is very simple. Originally, the team was looking at a concentrate part, so you have a high-grade zone, direct fee, a high-grade ore. You have the lower grade ore and some very big stockpiles at around three-grams. Josh, are you got that? And so the idea then is to take part of that floater so you concentrate the gold. And then part of it that you oxidize, through a dump each base process, just putting water through a dump and you partially oxidized the sulfide. Yeah. So what we're doing now, is we're looking at -- so -- and that's all quite risky and it's rehandled. So what John and the team have done is that, we have true-tried and full-scale confirmation of being able to concentrate, and do ultrafine brand, both in Tongon and Kibali. And then the idea is you take that concentrate, ultrafine brand and it just starts the oxidation process and finish it in case. And so that you can control the partial -- because all you want to do is take the sulfide down, the energy down and they said they can put it through the autoclave. So you're taking a large amount of the lower-grade ore concentrating it producing the sulfur content and putting it through the process. And so -- and so the back end of the mine is the same and the opportunities that we're now modeling are quite exciting, because 800,000 ounces is the bottom-end of a profile that we're doing a trade-off on and as you increase that efficiency of that concentration, so you drop the costs. And as you drop the costs, you unlock the reserves. And so that's the model that we're doing now. And by quarter three, you will have a good handle on the actual -- the scope. We've got a scoping study which works, and we will have a sort of pre-feasibility type project by the back half of this year. By next year we'll have -- finished that. I don't know, John, do you want to add anything to that? John Steele -- METALLURGY, ENGINEERING AND CAPITAL PROJECTS EXECUTIVE Yeah. The essence is the tank oxidation with ultrafine grind as an engineer that gives us controllability, because we can vary the grind to get the oxidation it require. On the pad, we get what we get, in terms of oxidation but now that we've got a process that we can control we've got a really viable project on our hands. Steven Howard Butler Thank you, Mark. Steve Butler, GMP. Mark as the previous slide before this one Tier 2 assets can you remind us again what you define as the lowest parameters for a Tier 2 asset in the portfolio? Mark Bristow -- President and Chief Executive Officer 3 million ounces returns of $1000 dollar long-term gold price. Steven Howard Butler And Massawa is beneath that you said when resource? Mark Bristow -- President and Chief Executive Officer Yeah. Just short of that. I mean, Massawa is a particularly interesting example. It's one of the best by far undeveloped gold deposits in Africa. And again, there is couple of junior companies around it that have installed infrastructure. And so -- and again, this is a project that we would be prepared to support and realizing its value and we've engaged with the Senegalese government because again the Senegalese government haven't really benefited from gold-mining. There's been gold mining in Senegal, but they've all been marginal. And so how do you -- can you exploit the installed infrastructure already in that region and not pulled in another mine. And you know, I mean, that's the difference between our focus always is how do you make money? Not how do you produce answers? So there's an opportunity to work on that. Right now, we've got a focus on completing the process with the Senegalese on getting this project across the land. Ralph Profiti -- Eight Capital -- Analyst Thanks, Mark. Ralph Profiti from Eight Capital. We have Fourmile currently excluded from the Nevada joint venture. Is that due to the 43-101 disclosure? Or is there potential that the economics maybe different inside and outside the joint venture depending on what you have on what comes out of the feasibility study? Mark Bristow -- President and Chief Executive Officer So as you will recall, when we did this joint venture it was negotiated under quite a lot of pressure and the principles of the deal was based on market consensus of the assets the net asset value. And very clearly Fourmile wasn't in the market models. And so -- and we know how valuable Fourmile is. So we felt that we would -- we didn't want to put it in because there was no value. There was no market value on it. What we have agreed is -- and Newmont kept out a couple of long-dated assets as well, where there is no value and then because they were not -- they were marginal in the current markets. For Fourmile and for the other assets, either party has an ability to bring it into a joint venture at the feasibility NPV provided it delivers 15% IRR at $1200 gold. Am I correct? And it will be also brought in not only at the NPV of $1200 gold with an IRR of 15%, but it will attract the same premium multiple as the vending partners. So if Barrick was trading at 1.3 times, you would pay it and also the joint venture will pay for the cost of the feasibility, so you'll recoup the feasibility. And it will come into the joint venture and the other party can elect to maintain its shareholding by making good on the cash flows to the vending partner or can take the dilution. That's the way it is--that's the way it is structure. Am I correct in that? Thanks. We're done. Nicky -- I mean, Jenny? So we are going to --we will have them, they can talk. Operator We will now take questions from the phone line. Our question comes from Chris Terry of Deutsche Bank. Chris Terry -- Deutsche Bank. -- Analyst Hi. Hello, Mark and team. Few questions for me. I understand you haven't got the medium to long-term guidance out yet and you're still working through that. I just wondered if there was an update on the timing for that and maybe just conceptually whether you could step through excluding the Nevada opportunity obviously on the JV which is stepped through some of the other things you found in the last three months and how that sizes up for the medium term. And then I was just also interested on the comments around divestments overall. I know you're taking a longer-term approach to that, but assets like Porgera I think it was interesting you talked about that with the Tier 1 opportunities, so I was just wondering whether you could make some high-level comments on some of the assets and the time line maybe on the divestments. Thank you. Mark Bristow -- President and Chief Executive Officer Okay. So on the divestments I've said that our target is about -- is around $1.5 billion of realized value as part of that program. And I won't be adding any more color to that process. I think that's good enough for you to measure me against. Right now, I don't want to start the public negotiation on these assets that all as I pointed out valuable. There's some that still needs some additional work to really get our head around the true value and we're busy with that. And also we are mindful that any transaction we do, we're clear about maintaining our relationship with our host countries because there's no country in which we will be realizing assets that isn't an important destination for our ongoing exploration. So that's the reason behind that. On the guidance, I have this ongoing negotiation with my team, so we have to reach a compromise and that is that we will definitely have it to you this year, but we have given you very clear guidance, 5.1 million to 5.7 million ounces and that's a five year horizon before 5.1 million to 5.6 million ounces and for the next five years that range before any disposals. And the cost profile, all-in sustaining cost is sitting at 8.70 to 9.20. But at the back end of that five years, it will be below all -- I mean at the bottom end or below that number. It's in the guidance we're giving you. And because you've consistently seen that guidance right from Randgold and Barrick, it's just that we've got a bit more work to be able to be comfortable with it, but that we're comfortable that we'll meet that guidance evenly. And by the way, there's nobody else that has that sort of guidance over five years. And the one thing I would add is we will meet our five-year guidance when we give it to you unlike most other people in this industry. Chris Terry -- Deutsche Bank. -- Analyst Okay, thanks, Mark. And just one follow-up, just on copper specifically, you've got a slide there in your pack, the last three months or so most investors have gone a little bit more bullish in copper. I just wonder whether you could talk about the role that copper assets and how you think about that within the mix? Thanks. Mark Bristow -- President and Chief Executive Officer Yes. So copper is an absolutely strategic metal for us. Why? Because with the merger, we moved into much younger geological provinces, particularly the whole western seaboard of the Americas both south and north. And with that comes an association between gold and copper. And copper has many similarities on process -- in the process and also geologically apart from the fact that in many cases it co-habits with gold. So that's the reason and we're very clear when we launched this merger that we have specific criteria and for copper, it's going to meet our investment criteria and that's hard for a copper mine. And secondly, we would certainly invest in anything that grows copper and gold and we would also invest in pure copper, if there was an opportunity where our presence at an address gave us a competitive advantage over the traditional copper mines. So that's really the guidance in which we will operate and I've got the reason that we're going to change the plan. I'll give you a simple example. Jabal Sayid is in an area which is part of the -- what we think the Arabian Shield which we all know as geologists, but we think that that's the same geology as the Nubian Shield, so we call it the Nubian Arabian shield. There's a Zakaria in there which is technically a Tier 1 asset, but there is going to be no other sort of big discoveries like that because no one is really look for it. And our relationship with in Ma'aden in Saudi Arabia gives us that opportunity to explore that whole Arabian shield and across the Red Sea into the Nubian shield with a partner that knows how to operate in those jurisdictions. I mean culturally, we've got the geological expertise and they have the geopolitical key. And so by the way Jabal Sayid has got some significant upside which we are already working on. When we got people who are worrying about whether it could actually deliver on its design and we think it can and certainly geologically it can. And again there's been very little geological modeling or mineral resource manager, no geology-driven business because it's high-grade copper. And so it makes sense for us. And so what we're doing is putting together a dedicated exploration team to evaluate that region and at the same time, we will expand and deliver the full potential on Jabal Sayid and then will make the decisions in the fullest of time, but that asset really does make significant cash flow. And if we can jack it up and its throughput than it's going to make even better cash flow. Chris Terry -- Deutsche Bank. -- Analyst Thanks Mark. Operator Our next question comes from John Bridges of JPMorgan. John Bridges -- JP Morgan -- Analyst Good afternoon Mark. Congratulations on the progress. Keep up the good work with the Spanish. I still struggle with it on occasions within Africans which creates all sorts of problems. Just wondering you've been talking this morning about Acacia and forcing the issue. Does that mean buying out minorities? Is that -- how do you see the way forward with that issue? Mark Bristow -- President and Chief Executive Officer So I think all options are on the table whether it's taking out the minorities or encouraging the Acacia Board to run a strategic program or something in between. The problem is that we are not prepared to overpay for these assets. Right now, it's really in a bad space and we need a lot of work to get that back on an even keel and that requires -- and again, I think everyone understands that it's very difficult for Acacia Board to actually run that company. And I'm a bit concerned that all the effort we've made, we don't seem be to be able to get through to anyone. We certainly are making progress with the Tanzanian government, but again there's a standoff of the two parties and we're in the middle trying to facilitate it. And also we have an argument over whether we can exercise our assets as the major shareholder and so it's a very complex situation. And so when you get into that environment, as our mediator, it's difficult because both parties are still trying to keep all options open and it makes a difficult negotiation. So as you see we've been -- we go a few steps forward and a couple of steps back and -- but as I've said before, there is no doubt in my mind when we get to the solution whatever it is, it's going to be good for stakeholders, because right now, it's not good for anyone. John Bridges -- JP Morgan -- Analyst Understood. Understood. I'm a little bit confused because my understanding was Tanzanian wanted to talk to you and they want to be involved, but they weren't able to. Mark Bristow -- President and Chief Executive Officer Well, yes, to a degree. I mean, that's the lip service. The Tanzanian government are very committed to try to find the solution. The problem is, is there a commitment on both sides and enough courage to be able to close out? And we can't sign anything that we're not prepared to because we're not in a position to legally. So our only role is to be able to play a messenger and end up in which we are well advanced and getting to is try and get an agreement -- the basic detailed agreement that we can deliver to the Acacia Board and its independent community. And then it's up to them to make that decision. It would be a lot easier if Acacia was more engaging in their discussion, but again I think you're seeing everyone protecting a bit of their own turf, because it's a complex situation. There's not a lot of trust left on either side. So we're going to continue working with it. And again, we've assured Acacia that we're working to get this thing done and we will present it to them, but at the same time they've also questioned our right to be able to buy out shares. So in itself it doesn't make -- then you've got to ask the question so why we are here, why doesn't Acacia go do the deal? And the answer is, they can't. So they will eventually get somebody to see reason, I hope. Not from the lack of trying on Acacia, I must say for a long time now. John Bridges -- JP Morgan -- Analyst Okay. Appreciate the color. Mark Bristow -- President and Chief Executive Officer Thank you. Operator Our next question comes from John Tumazos from John Tumazos Very Independent Research. John Steele -- METALLURGY, ENGINEERING AND CAPITAL PROJECTS EXECUTIVE Thank you. [Foreign Language] So in the quarter Barrick had about a 2% return on equity. Assuming constant gold prices Mark when you got things calming in a couple of years, what's a reasonable target, 6%, 8% for ROE? John Bridges -- JP Morgan -- Analyst [Foreign Language] Mark Bristow -- President and Chief Executive Officer So if you look at -- that's a tough question to answer and I think our legal people are going to be cringing about exactly what I'm going to say now. I see it in this audience. So, if you look at our dividend policy -- I mean the dividend we just paid, we can afford it, very much afford it. That's a 1.2% yield. That's significant in the gold industry, making it out of real money. And we just started. So I've said and John said this too our focus is to drive this business to be able to deliver real value for its stakeholders. In Randgold, we've got the dividend yield up significantly and I've got no doubt that we've got -- on balance we're -- we've got a better portfolio of assets and there's no better way than with the best people and the best assets to produce leading returns. And so it's my objective to be able to become the go-to-gold company when it comes to returns and that's our focus and every reason we have to be able to continue to deliver on that. John Bridges -- JP Morgan -- Analyst [Foreign Language] Operator This concludes the question-and-answer session. I would like to turn the conference back over to Mark Bristow for closing remarks. Mark Bristow -- President and Chief Executive Officer Again, well, thank you very much again for your patience and your questions and do we have -- I mean traditionally we serve a glass of wine or anything, yeah, can we, so you can have a cup of tea or coffee with the team, I think next door. There's refreshments over there. Traditionally in Randgold we use to offer you a glass of wine, but we'll work on that. I think we've got to get a liquor license or something. Thanks very much for your attention. Cheers. Operator This concludes today's conference call. You may disconnect your lines. Thank you for participating. Should you have additional questions, please contact the Barrick Investor Relations Department. Thank you for participating and have a pleasant day. Duration: 85 minutes Call participants: Mark Bristow -- President and Chief Executive Officer Catherine Raw -- Executive Managing Director John Steele -- METALLURGY, ENGINEERING AND CAPITAL PROJECTS EXECUTIVE Greg Barnes -- TD. Mark or Catherine -- Analyst Stephen Walker -- RBC Capital Markets. -- Analyst Stephen Walker -- RBC Capital Markets -- Analyst Josh Wolfson -- Analyst Steven Howard Butler Ralph Profiti -- Eight Capital -- Analyst Chris Terry -- Deutsche Bank. -- Analyst John Bridges -- JP Morgan -- Analyst More GOLD analysis All earnings call transcripts Leaf Group Ltd. (NYSE:LEAF) Q1 2019 Earnings Call , 5:00 p.m. ET Contents: Prepared Remarks Questions and Answers Call Participants Prepared Remarks: Operator Good afternoon. My name is Christine, and I will be your conference operator today. At this time, I would like to welcome everyone to Leaf Group's first-quarter 2019 earnings call. On the call with me today is Sean Moriarty, CEO; Jantoon Reigersman, CFO; and Shawn Milne, investor relations. Shawn Milne, you may begin the conference. Shawn Milne -- Investor Relations Good afternoon, everyone. On behalf of Leaf Group, welcome to our conference call. I'm pleased to have Sean Moriarty, our chief executive officer; and Jantoon Reigersman, our chief financial officer, on the call with me today. Any metrics discussed on the call without reference to a specific third-party source are based on our internal data. You will find the letter to shareholders and a related release along with supplemental materials posted on the Investor Relations section of our corporate website located at ir.leafgroup.com. Before we get started, we need to make the following safe harbor statement. We would like to remind everyone that during today's conference call, management will make certain forward-looking statements, which are subject to various risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from our current expectations discussed in such forward-looking statements. In particular, comments about our anticipated future revenue, earnings, operating expenses, operating metrics and growth rates, as well as statements regarding our business strategy and objectives, plans, intentions, operating outlook, planned investments and the impact of recent acquisitions are considered forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from anticipated results are detailed in our letter to shareholders, earnings release and our SEC filings. I would like to point out that during the call, we will discuss certain non-GAAP financial measures while talking about the company's financial and operating performance, including adjusted EBITDA and free cash flow. Reconciliations of these non-GAAP financial measures to their most directly comparable GAAP measures can be found in the financial tables included at the end of our letter to shareholders and press release. Lastly, I would like to remind everyone that today's conference call is being recorded and that it is also available via webcast through the Investor Relations section of our corporate website. A replay will also be available on our website. With that, I'll now turn the call over to our CEO, Sean Moriarty. Sean Moriarty -- Chief Executive Officer Thank you, Shawn. Good afternoon, everyone, and welcome to our Q1 2019 earnings call. Before we jump into the Q&A, I'll provide a brief update. As many of you know, April was an eventful month for Leaf Group. On April 15, we announced that the company had commenced a comprehensive review of strategic alternatives. The process is ongoing, and we will not be making further announcements until the Board has approved the course of action requiring disclosure. On April 16, Osmium unilaterally terminated their potential proxy contest with the company. We also announced that we have added Lanny Baker, the CFO of Yelp, to our board of directors. Lanny brings a wealth of financial and operational experience in leading and advising consumer Internet companies and will be a great asset to us. I'm very pleased to welcome Lanny to our board. In Q1, while we delivered on multiple key initiatives and saw strong growth in several of our brands, we were not pleased with the overall business performance. Three main challenges impacted our business. First, we experienced slower-than-expected growth of branded direct revenue in our media segment as we began to focus on much larger deals with longer sales cycles. Second, Livestrong's revenue was adversely impacted year-over-year by the August 2018 Google algorithm update. Third, Society6 results reflect the continued headwinds from a shift away from third-party marketplaces, international softness and ongoing promotional pressure. As we look forward, however, we see several positive trends that set the stage for stronger revenue growth in the second half of 2019 and 2020. For instance, in Q1, our digital brand saw solid traffic growth, reaching more than 64 million monthly unique visitors and now ranked No. 51 in the U.S., up from No. 67 at the end of Q4. Leaf Group now reaches roughly a quarter of the U.S. Internet population, providing ample runway for revenue growth and diversification. We saw a significant improvement in Livestrong traffic from February to March, and we believe traffic will continue to improve over the course of the year. Hunker ended the quarter as the largest single-site home brand in the U.S. at 11.5 million monthly unique visitors. We also began to see the benefits of our new cross-platform sales strategy. In February 2019, we signed our largest-ever branded direct deal with Athleta, leveraging our combined fitness and wellness offerings. With respect to Society6, we have taken several important steps to restore growth. We made the decision late last month to seek new leadership for Society6 and are actively evaluating candidates. In addition to ongoing product expansion, we launched our first fully localized site in Germany and plan to launch several more localized sites over the remainder of the year and into 2020. After integrating the Deny Designs, our Society6 B2B segment is delivering strong growth as our hospitality and retail partners are looking for unique and differentiated products. The Saatchi Art Group had a strong quarter in Q1, growing revenue 26% year over year. Our hospitality offering is gaining traction with designers and property owners and has tremendous growth potential. The Other Art Fair posted healthy revenue growth with strong consumer demand at fairs this quarter in Los Angeles, London and Sydney. With that brief summary, we're now ready to take your questions. Christine, please open the line. Questions & Answers: Operator [Operator instructions] Your first question comes from the line of Maria Ripps from Canaccord. Maria Ripps -- Canaccord Genuity -- Analyst It appears that Society6 third-party GTV declines accelerated in the quarter. Was that by design? Or what's driving that? And I think you'll be lapping the third P -- the 3P transition impact starting this coming quarter. So as you went through this process of strengthening your direct relationships with consumers, can you talk about sort of underlying trends in volume and GTV, excluding the impact of third-party transition? Jantoon Reigersman -- Chief Financial Officer Maria, this is Jantoon. So I'll take the first bit, and then I'm sure Sean will add something later. So let me answer your question first on the GTV impact of the 3P. So remember that we did a deliberate pullback last year, and the real first clean comparison you'll have year over year will be to Q3 this year. And also remember that in Q1 of last year, so Q1 of '18, was effectively your high watermark. So if you think about, and this is probably in line with your second question. If you think about some of the data points for the quarter, right, so it's effectively third-party GTV is down 92% year over year. But again, this comes off the high watermark. Internationally, there was a decline of 6%. But remember, we're now launching in Germany and starting to really focus on the international element. And then if you think about U.S. direct-to-consumer growth, it has remained consistent in the mid-single-digit range consistent with Q4 as well. And then the other thing, I think, we highlighted in the letter is we are confident that we can get the growth back to historical levels. So if you think about it, it's really the third-party element that has been driving downwards. Overall, the business has remained steady, and we feel that we have ample opportunity to bring growth back in the second half of the year. Sean Moriarty -- Chief Executive Officer Yes. Maria, I think Jantoon really did hit the high points. We've got -- for every area, these headwinds we've identified, we've been working on now for a quarter or two, in some cases, a little bit longer. And certainly, while we are not happy with the performance, we know with good execution on each one of these fronts, we can get this business back to the growth rates that we've enjoyed historically and we believe the category presents for us. We just got to keep doing the work. Maria Ripps -- Canaccord Genuity -- Analyst Yes. That's helpful. And Sean, it seems like you've been live in Germany with a localized site for about a month now. Any early feedback you're able to share with us in terms of either traffic or sales volume pickup? And I know you expect sort of international growth recovery in the second half of the year, but sort of how should we think about international revenue progression through the balance of the year? Sean Moriarty -- Chief Executive Officer Yes. So Maria, given that we're only four weeks in, it's too early. We're still testing and learning. That said, we're highly confident if you think about the pain points we are eliminating as we localize the sites. So having local language support, making sure we address the top three or four methods of payment in a market, making sure that we're merchandising products that are not only high quality but we can deliver quickly to the customer. Every single one of those things we know is an obstacle to growth, and our localization efforts really allow us to solve for those friction points. And we're very, very confident that certainly, over time, and we're talking quarters rather than years, we should be gaining meaningful traction as we localize these markets. The next step, once we've gone through this initial phase, which is probably a quarter or two after launch, when we really start to understand the behavior of the consumers within market, then we can really start to put the marketing effort behind those local customers in those specific markets. So the other thing to keep in mind is this is very much test and learn right now. We're eliminating some of the basic friction points, but the real opportunity is going to come with market-specific marketing initiatives, which will pick up probably a quarter or two after each localized site launches. Operator Your next question comes from the line of Jason Kreyer from Craig-Hallum. Jason Kreyer -- Craig-Hallum Capital Group LLC -- Analyst I'm going to pivot over to media for a second here. Can you just explain the cadence of what you saw over the course of the quarter? One of the surprises on my end is the traffic numbers obviously had been under a little bit of pressure since the algorithm changed last fall. What we saw in Q1 seems to be a little bit more based on the RPV. So just wondering, I mean, is there anything specific that you can call out there? Sean Moriarty -- Chief Executive Officer Yes. Jason, this is Sean. There's two pieces. First and foremost, as you spoke to, I mentioned it in our remarks, in the fitness and wellness offering we have today and with Well+Good and Livestrong we think allows us to really go after much bigger deals, deals that prior to putting the businesses together, we really couldn't compete for. And so we did shift the strategy in the quarter to going after many of those bigger deals. And we think much of this is a timing issue. We, in retrospect, should have anticipated it, that larger deals are going to take a bit longer to close. But we're very, very confident over time in our ability to ladder up and get those larger deals. But when those larger deals don't come through in a single 90-day period, as you might imagine, it can have significant pressure on RPV. The second part, as you point out, is that Livestrong traffic loss in the wake of that Google algorithm updated last August certainly has an impact in overall Media revenues. One thing I should call out, even though it's been several tough months since from an audience perspective, we had very, very healthy growth from February to March. I think we were up 30% in Livestrong audience. And the team is doing tremendous work in getting that Livestrong business back to audience growth, which we believe is achievable, and we should see improvement over the course of the year. Jason Kreyer -- Craig-Hallum Capital Group LLC -- Analyst So just touching on the branded direct commentary a little bit. If we rewind a little bit, part of the reason for the Well+Good transaction was they really filled in a lot of the gaps as far as that branded direct offering. But correct me if I'm wrong, my understanding is that there wasn't as much of a mix tied to branded direct in the past, that that was going to be a strategic priority going forward. So maybe you can kind of frame the quarter in terms of did you walk -- did you change the mix of advertising on the site kind of away from what you've been doing in the past and toward more branded direct and that's kind of what drove the surprise? Sean Moriarty -- Chief Executive Officer Yes. No. OK. Let me see if I can help you out on that because it's a good question. So we -- if you went back pre-Well+Good, if you go back a year ago, we had a fledgling branded sales team, and we're effectively selling the Livestrong property only in the fitness and wellness category. What we've done since is put those businesses together as a single group. We scaled up that branded sales team. Many of those sales professionals are also relatively new to the organization. And we're going after bigger deals. So if you look at from a mix perspective, what happens when you ladder up is if you're spending more of your energy against those larger deals when before your bread-and-butter was much smaller deals and you really haven't expanded your sales force substantially and you've got a lot of new members, then there's the potential for a timing gap as you shift that revenue mix. We, in retrospect, were a bit optimistic that we'd be able to make that transition without much of a gap. But certainly, we're on the wrong side of timing. Keep in mind though, we are very, very confident in the strategy and the approach. We signed our single-largest brand deal ever in February with Athleta who had actually been a prior customer of both brands. And the scope of that deal absolutely reflects the value of both of these brands in an integrated fitness and wellness offering. It would not have been achievable to get a deal of that size without both properties and common leadership. Jason Kreyer -- Craig-Hallum Capital Group LLC -- Analyst All right. I appreciate the color there. I'm not sure I asked the question the right way, but you answered it the right way. The last one just kind of on that topic. If we look at the Media component outside of branded direct, maybe you can comment on what you're seeing as far as the trajectory of your programmatic advertising. Has that kind of been stable? Or did that cause a little bit of pressure as well? Sean Moriarty -- Chief Executive Officer Yes. So keep in mind, there is some seasonality to Media businesses. Q4 is particularly strong. And Q1, particularly January, is a bit softer. So that's something you should keep in mind, is just the inherent seasonality of these consumer-driven media businesses against the ad cycles of the advertisers that we typically have. The other thing I'd call out though is when you think about the flow-throughs on Livestrong in a world where its audience substantially declined last August and we're just now starting to recover traffic, the incremental traffic that we lost provides very, very high-margin revenue. And so you really have to factor that in your analysis, right? That incremental audience and those incremental dollars are extremely high margin on the edges. Jantoon, anything I missed there? Jantoon Reigersman -- Chief Financial Officer No. So I am obviously agreeing with what Sean is saying. Just to reiterate, we just -- it's mostly a Livestrong-driven delta rather than whether there's any issue around your ad stack, right? So the ad stack is performing very healthy. We'll keep on driving that up, and we feel that there's still ample room on the RPV side in the second half of the year as well. Jason Kreyer -- Craig-Hallum Capital Group LLC -- Analyst OK. In regards to just the traffic changes in February, March, is there something you're doing differently? Should we view this as a proof point that we are now starting to work through those algorithm changes in a bigger way and will continue that trajectory? So if there's any way you can frame that because it seems like not only was Livestrong really solid, but kind of up and down all your properties, you had really solid gains in March. Jantoon Reigersman -- Chief Financial Officer Yes. So remember we're -- I think there are a couple of things. So one is remember that when we did -- when the algorithm happened, we also changed it from 85,000 to 55,000 articles right at the time. So we did a deliberate approach of repositioning Livestrong as a brand, number one. Number two is we've also been doing investments in the content side of things. And these obviously, with the experience that we have as a company and the historical context of how to really drive traffic, these are important renovations that we're doing and we will keep on doing for the remainder of the year. So I think these are two important drivers of the strength of the platform that we have. Sean Moriarty -- Chief Executive Officer And the other thing I'd add is the editorial strength. If you look at the leadership of Livestrong and Well+Good from an editorial perspective, it's absolutely fantastic. That team has been substantially upgraded since Well+Good has become part of the company and Alexia Brue has taken on a larger leadership position. Kate Spies, who heads up editorial, is absolutely fantastic and has built a wonderful team underneath. It's really delivering. So our ability to really create high-quality, on-message, engaging content is much better than it's ever been before. Jantoon Reigersman -- Chief Financial Officer Yes. And the same obviously applies toward Hunker as a brand that is also growing rapidly. Jason Kreyer -- Craig-Hallum Capital Group LLC -- Analyst Great segue into my last question. So just more strategically on Hunker. Can you talk about maybe the vision for that property, I don't know, maybe in near-term and a longer-term vision? It seems like this is a fantastic asset. I don't have a whole lot of perspective on how that's contributing today specifically. But any more details on kind of blending media and marketplace components together there or something else strategic that maybe we're not thinking about? Sean Moriarty -- Chief Executive Officer Yes. So it's been really just more than two years ago since we launched Hunker, and it's extraordinary that we've been able to build the business to this 11.5 million monthly uniques in the home category. But when we launched the site, what we saw, and really consistent with the Leaf Group mission, was the opportunity to build fresh, new brands, and as we talk about all the time, for those passionate consumers who wanted a brand that not only met them at their point of passion but that was really accessible, right? If you think about our brands, they are high-passion brands, in high-passion categories, for really that aspirational middle-market customer, which is a really, really big audience. We've executed on that well with a site that can provide really interesting insights on architecture and design and interior decorating but also provide a lot of really functional information geared to the first-time or early cycle homeowner. That's a big, big audience in the U.S. market. And that was the original branded editorial impulse, and it's hit home. I think, over time, we are going to be thinking about how we can turn it into much more of a platform, always having tremendous editorial credibility and great content but also taking that content and that inspiration and taking it a bit further and allowing people to get things done as we diversify revenues. We're really in the revenue-building stage, Jason, on that business. It's primarily ad-supported with some sponsorship, and we're also experimenting with blending content and commerce from a lead gen perspective. So still somewhat early. But it's a wonderful, young brand, in a fantastically large category with lots of room for innovation, and we're figuring it out as we go. But we agree with you. We think it's a crown jewel in the making. Operator Your next question comes from the line of Tom Champion from Cowen. Henry Wang -- Cowen and Company -- Analyst It's Henry on for Tom. I'm curious how you're thinking about M&A for the rest of the year. Are you considering entering any new verticals or maybe just focusing mostly on ramping your existing portfolio? Sean Moriarty -- Chief Executive Officer Tom, it's a great question. As we've talked about, M&A, accretive, strategic M&A is really core to our strategy. At the same time, as I said earlier, we're not satisfied with the results of this quarter, and we believe that M&A is best used to expand our market leadership in the categories that we're in from a position of strength at the core. And so our focus primarily right now, while we continue to have a very healthy and active M&A pipeline and we expect that to continue, we want to make sure that we've got this Leaf Group platform and our businesses all performing at the levels that we expect for them. So our focus on our priority at this point is to get these businesses all performing at the levels that we expect and you should expect from them. Henry Wang -- Cowen and Company -- Analyst Got it. And just curious if you'd give some more color on what might have driven the softness in international GTV this quarter and maybe what your top growth initiatives are for international looking forward. Sean Moriarty -- Chief Executive Officer Sure. So from a macro perspective, particularly with the U.K. being a meaningful international market, Brexit I don't think has helped any kind of U.S.-based global digital commerce players in the U.K. Western Europe also, we're not the only ones to note some broad market softness. But I think the biggest challenge is one that's within our direct control, which is if we are going to be engaging customers across the globe, we need to be able to do that in their native language with their top methods of payment, merchandising those products that resonate most deeply with that audience and then being able to deliver those products, high-quality products, to them very, very quickly. And so despite the fact that there is some macro headwinds, which kind of always comes and goes in businesses like this, our job is really to make sure that if we're going to operate a global platform, that our businesses are as relevant and as are easy to use and consumer-friendly in every single market that we offer as they are in the United States. And that needs to be the bulk of our effort. We're highly confident despite any macro trends, these are young businesses with lots of room to grow, and if we're delivering for customers in the way that we should be, that we should be able to grow through some of those macro headwinds that emerge from time to time. Henry Wang -- Cowen and Company -- Analyst Got it. And just the last one for me. Just curious, do you had any updates on the promotional environment for the Marketplace side of the business? I know in the past, you've mentioned that's a pretty iterative process, and you've run tests around discounts and free shipping. And I was wondering if those had any impacts on the business. Sean Moriarty -- Chief Executive Officer Yes. So we definitely -- and I think this is true for many folks like us in an age of near-instant delivery at least from the big commodity platform e-commerce players. We've increased our shipping promotions because it started to become an expectation, that you get even personalized, custom-made-for-you product pretty darn quickly. And at the same time, we're doing an awful lot of work on pricing optimization because realistically, pricing and promotion should go hand-in-hand. We think there's an awful lot of room to not only maintain but improve margin. Still sending the right signals to consumers around promotions in a world where it has unfortunately become for virtually every e-commerce player a bit of a buy signal without giving up too much margin in the process. And so we're doing an awful lot of work with our promotional calendar, moving toward more dynamic pricing. And over time, and this doesn't get done overnight, but over the next few quarters, we should make real progress there and just become a much smarter merchandiser, pricer and promoter in the products that we offer. We know we're offering differentiated, unique, often one-of-a-kind products through our Marketplace brands which should give us a lot of room as we become more sophisticated and the platform becomes more capable to deliver stronger financial results for the business. Henry Wang -- Cowen and Company -- Analyst Great. Thanks, guys. Operator [Operator signoff] Duration: 29 minutes Call participants: Shawn Milne -- Investor Relations Sean Moriarty -- Chief Executive Officer Maria Ripps -- Canaccord Genuity -- Analyst Jantoon Reigersman -- Chief Financial Officer Jason Kreyer -- Craig-Hallum Capital Group LLC -- Analyst Henry Wang -- Cowen and Company -- Analyst More LEAF analysis All earnings call transcripts GeoPark Ltd (NYSE:GPRK) Q1 2019 Earnings Call , 11:00 a.m. ET Contents: Prepared Remarks Questions and Answers Call Participants Prepared Remarks: Operator Good morning and welcome to the GeoPark Limited Conference Call following the results announcement for the first quarter ended March 31, 2019. After the speaker's remarks there will be a question and answer session. (Operator Instructions) If you do not have a copy of the press release please call Sard Verbinnen & Co. in New York at +1 (212) 687-8080 and we will have one sent to you. Alternatively, you may obtain a copy of the release at the Investor Support section on the company's corporate website at www.geo-park.com. A replay of today's call may be accessed through this webcast in the Investor Support section of the GeoPark corporate website. Before we continue, please note that certain statements contained in the results' press release and on this conference call are forward looking statements rather than historical facts and are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those described. With respect to such forward looking statements the company seeks protections afforded by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These risks include a variety of factors including competitive developments and risk factors listed from time to time in the Company's SEC public reports and public releases. Those lists are intended to identify certain principal factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those described in the forward looking statements. But are not intended to represent a complete list of the company's business. All financial figures included herein were prepared in accordance with the IFRS and are stated in the US dollars unless otherwise noted. Reserves figures correspond to PRMS standards. On the call today from GeoPark is James F. Park, Chief and Executive Officer; Augusto Zubillaga, Chief Operating Officer; Andres Ocampo, Chief Financial Officer and Stacy Steimel, Shareholder Value Director. And now, I'll turn the call over to Mr. James Park. Mr. Park you may begin. James F. Park -- Chief Executive Officer Thank you. And welcome everyone. We're joining you this morning with our executive team from Bogota, Colombia. We are pleased to report another record quarter of operational and financial performance. Oil and gas production up 23%, revenues up 21%, EBITDA up 46%, transportation and commercial costs down to $2 per barrel in Colombia, free cash flow of $44 million, net profit of $20 million, cash on hand of $147 million, continued returning value to our shareholders by investing $16 million in our buyback program, and now we have seven rigs operating across our Latin American asset base. Given the fundamental long-term nature of our business, it's helpful to step back from the quarterly developments and also look at the bigger picture with our approach, our foundation and our sustained performance which differentiate GeoPark from the pack. We started out with an ambitious long-term vision and plan which we have consistently worked to build and execute. We agreed on the required skill sets to achieve this plan and have steadily invested in and built these capacity to create the strongest oil and gas team in the region. And we developed an ESG value system from the get go which we call SPEED to ensure we are the employer of choice, the partner of choice and the neighbor of choice wherever we are operating. Our strongest metric validating with big price approach is GeoPark's 16-year track record of consistent growth in production, reserves and net asset value which has occurred regardless of whatever financial industry or political crisis has been thrown at us. Our oil fighting ability is demonstrated by a 70% plus drilling success rate after drilling 300 wells with over 350 million barrels discovered. We currently have over 180 million barrels of net certified 2P reserves valued at $2.7 billion. Our technical and operating know-how has led to peer leading cost efficiencies with finding and development costs of just $3.60 per barrel and operating cost as low as $4 per barrel in Llanos 34. Our capital allocation discipline gives us an exceptional investment efficiency which generates $3 of operating net back for every $1 we invest and with a return on capital employed of 38% over the last 12 months. With more hydrocarbons and less cost, our cash generation keeps picking up speed with an EBITDA of $360 million and free cash flow of $130 million dollars over the last 12 months. And we have an unit light (ph) organic project inventory to continue growing production in reserves which is all self-funded from our own cash flows and builds on a rich platform of over five million acres in 29 blocks in 10 hydrocarbon basins in six countries. We also have developed a $4 billion plus inventory and new potential acquisition projects across the region and have proven our ability to develop important partnerships and strategic alliances. The international investment community has taken increased notice of GeoPark's performance and rewarded our shareholders by making it the best performing upstream oil and gas company on the New York Stock Exchange for the last two years in a row. Importantly, all of this strong short medium term performance gives us the luxury and needs to look further down the road and acquire more ammunition for the long haul. For example, our recent successful entry into Ecuador is a major advancement, one of biggest most attractive underdeveloped petroleum systems in Latin America and a long term target of GeoPark is a Maranon-Oriente-Putumayo basin complex stretching from Peru through Ecuador and into Colombia with over 10 billion barrels of remaining conventional hydrocarbon resources. With our existing platforms in Peru and Columbia, our Ecuador entry into this giant oil province substantially opens up our growth horizon for many years to come. Thank you and we'll be pleased to take your questions. Questions and Answers: Operator (Operator Instructions) Our first question comes from Gavin Wylie of Scotiabank. Gavin Wylie -- Scotiabank -- Analyst Yes, thanks. Just a couple of quick questions from me just on the -- more or less on the CapEx side and free cash flow side. So we have kind of -- Vasconia is running much better than expected, costs have become I'd say in line maybe even a little bit better than expected. And when I think of Peru being delayed, that maybe frees up somewhere in the realm of about $100 million of CapEx that can then be pushed into other projects. And I know that at the presentation you've got the $80 case that shows $270 million of CapEx. So the two questions I have are, first is what do you expect CapEx to be for 2019 given the fact that you have deferred some of that Peruvian expenditures and two, where is that incremental capital going and three, given the fact that you're probably producing about $150 million of free cash flow this year, how are you prioritizing your sort of debt repayment and buybacks because you weren't really super active on the buyback here in the first quarter. And just wondering if that's going to kick up as we go through the balance of the year. Thanks. James F. Park -- Chief Executive Officer Thanks Gavin and good morning. As you pointed out with the deferral Peru barrel oil prices that we had anticipated in our budget, we are seeing more free cash flow. To your point about the coverage for I mean 2019, we're estimating it's going to be around $140 million to $150 million. Our business units are continuously looking for different projects that they present and we are doing almost make an ongoing capital allocation methodology where we are just looking for project and finding in our current portfolio opportunities for us to invest. All buyback programs needs one of those and with the entire free cash coming from lower cost and higher oil prices and the return of the bulk of Peru coverage for next year, yes, you should expect more cash being allocated to our buyback program at least during the second and third quarters of the year or probably the remaining of the year. So far, we have invested $16 million and bought back 1.1 million shares more or less. So we should expect that to pick up probably in the months that are coming forward. Gavin Wylie -- Scotiabank -- Analyst Just as a follow up to that buyback question, have you guys thought about or looking at doing an automated buyback that wouldn't be subject to blackouts or are you just going to stay on the discretionary path? James F. Park -- Chief Executive Officer No, we do both. On (ph) growth periods we put it automatic and local periods we do it on manual basically. but we have been doing it that way. But the automatic order that the buybacks have been receiving was probably more conservative views in few months than it should be going forward. Gavin Wylie -- Scotiabank -- Analyst Perfect. Thank you. James F. Park -- Chief Executive Officer Sure. Operator Your next question comes from the line of Jenny Xenos of Canaccord Genuity. Jenny, your line is open. Jenny Xenos -- Canaccord Genuity -- Analyst Good morning. Can you hear me? Operator Yes, we can hear you. Jenny Xenos -- Canaccord Genuity -- Analyst Great. Thank you very much. Good morning and congratulations on a great quarter. I have four questions please. First, with regards to the commercial and transportation discounts, they have improved substantially in the first quarter of this year, what was behind this reduction and is it sustainable for the remainder of the year and going forward? Second, when do you expect the Cuerva and Yamu disposition to close? Third, could you please give us an update on the EIA approval in Peru? And finally, with regards to the IFRS 16 adoption, you've had about a $1.3 million positive impact on your profit if I understand it correctly. How will you be reporting it going forward? Will it always be kind of below the EBITDA line or will it become part of your kind of operating with future reporting? Thank you. James F. Park -- Chief Executive Officer Great, thank you, Jenny. With respect to the commercial discounts, just a couple of things. Well the main item here is that the commercial and transportation discount this quarter has reported were reduced by $2 per barrel. We are expecting our flow line to be in operation before the end of the month. And with that, we expect for the second half of the year, an extra dollar on top of the two that we have already achieved. And then, your second question was Yamu, Cuerva closing sorry, the -- really that's on the hands of the ANH who are pending their approval to effective the transfer of the assets. Hopefully somewhere in the --in the second quarter. So before the end of the quarter it should happen. Unfortunately it is a bit outside of our hand but we shouldn't expect any problems. This is an asset that had been transferred from qualified operator to another qualified operator. So, we really expect no surprise in there. But unfortunately sometimes these delays do happen. On -- with respect to EIA in Peru, we -- there were some delays, part of those were on our side. Our team took their time to really address every single item that was included in the feedback from all the stakeholders into the EIA. With that said, (inaudible) was fine back to Peru to the (inaudible), that now will be in the hands of them to process and come back with -- to us with the final approval. We expect that to occur also before June, hopefully before June this quarter basically. With that, I think we mentioned this in the previous calls or with that timing we would expect the first tide to occur still in 2020, more toward the last quarter of the year than the first as we had said in the past. In the meantime, the team is doing great progress on all the works that can still be advanced prior to getting the EIA approved. For example, we penalized the upgrading of the work at the base camp to be receiving the loans that are going to come once we are in operation. The flexi tide have been built, transported to Lima and now it's on the way to the camp -- on its way to the camp. So, everything that we can do to accelerate in the meantime until we get the approval is being done. So the project still moves. But we will expect to get the approval toward -- before the end of June. And then your last question about IFRS 16. As you pointed out, you see the $1.3 million impact in our financial statements. Strategically what that -- this new rule is during some of the leases that we have, we have to account them as both assets and liabilities. And then some of them get removed from the lines, OpEx lines or G&A lines. So, it's -- on the assets and liabilities it is around $14 million on each. Half of that is associated to the leaking of the compression plan in formality. So if you look -- in our financial statements, you won't be able to reconcile the OpEx lines or the EBITDA lines. But in our earning release, if you look at our adjusted EBITDA lines, all of the OpEx lines and every single item that is included in our earnings release has been having reconciled to be consistent in the past and going forward. So every time we disclose our adjusted EBITDA numbers, they are consistent to the accounting methodology that we used in the past. And you can see the isolated impact on the set 1 note 2 on the financial statements.I don't know if that clears the question from Jenny, if there's any follow up? Operator (Operator Instructions) I would now turn the call back over to James Park for any closing or additional comments. James F. Park -- Chief Executive Officer Thank you everybody for your interest in GeoPark and your continued support of the company. We encourage you to please visit us and our operations in each country and call us at any time for more information. Thank you. Operator Thank you. That does conclude today's GeoPark Limited conference call. You may now disconnect. Duration: 19 minutes Call participants: James F. Park -- Chief Executive Officer Gavin Wylie -- Scotiabank -- Analyst Jenny Xenos -- Canaccord Genuity -- Analyst More GPRK analysis All earnings call transcripts What happened Shares of Hecla Mining (NYSE:HL) fell over 13% today after the mining company reported first-quarter 2019 operating results. The business topped Wall Street estimates for revenue but reported a loss of $0.04 per share, double expectations from analysts, according to numbers compiled by Yahoo! Finance. More importantly, Hecla Mining only managed to deliver relatively solid results thanks to higher-than-expected gold and silver grades and recoveries at the Greens Creek mine. The business reported that two mining complexes delivered less cash flow than expected internally. The performance from the recently acquired Nevada mines was so poor that management suspended its annual estimates for production and costs from the assets. As of 1:18 p.m. EDT, the stock had settled to a 12.2% loss. So what Hecla Mining generated revenue of $152.6 million in the first quarter, marking a 9% increase year over year. However, gross profit fell 91% in that span as operations moved into lower-grade sections of the Casa Berardi mine and development at the company's Nevada operations ramped up. The Nevada mines in question were acquired in mid-2018. As CEO Phillips Baker, Jr. noted at the time: With this acquisition, Hecla now has three high-grade mines in Nevada, one of the best mining districts in the world. These assets immediately add production and cash flow, and because they are a good fit with Hecla's expertise, we believe there is significant opportunity for improvement in the mines' productivity and consistency. Things haven't worked out as smoothly as initially hoped. Baker said the Nevada mines delivered "unacceptable" levels of operating costs, ore grades, and negative cash flow in the first quarter. As a result, Hecla Mining is conducting a review to determine the best path forward. The conclusion is expected in the second quarter of this year. Now what Given the importance of the Nevada operations to the long-term growth potential of Hecla Mining, cost overruns aren't something investors are willing to tolerate. The bad news is compounded by recent permitting issues for a mine in Montana that was widely expected to usher in the next wave of growth projects for the business. For now, all investors can do is wait for more updates and hope for the best. Since the beginning of 2019, few industries have generated buzz quite like the marijuana industry. The Horizons Marijuana Life Sciences ETF, the first tradable cannabis exchange-traded fund, is up 49% for the year through Monday, May 6. That almost triples the 17% return of the broad-based S&P 500 since the year began. Becoming enamored with the pot industry is easy when Wall Street continues to throw around huge sales projections. Although the weed industry "only" generated $12.2 billion in legal global sales in 2018, it looks to be on pace for $50 billion to $75 billion in annual revenue by the end of the next decade. Meanwhile, Christopher Carey at Bank of America recently opined that peak pot sales could hit $166 billion a year, as well as disrupt industries that currently total $2.6 trillion in annual worldwide revenue. And you wonder why marijuana stocks have done so well? Pot stock investors flock to Aurora Cannabis Perhaps no pot stock is more popular than Alberta-based Aurora Cannabis (NASDAQ:ACB), which is the crowned favorite among millennial investors. Aurora Cannabis brings a number of competitive advantages to the table that's made it a common selection among investing enthusiasts. For starters, it's expected to lead its peers in terms of peak production potential. The company currently calls for more than 625,000 kilos of peak annual output by the midpoint of 2020, but I find this projection to be conservative. Inclusive of its ICC Labs acquisition in South America, well over 700,000 kilos seems likely. In addition to simply producing a lot of marijuana, Aurora has done a killer job of moving into international markets via production and/or distribution deals. Including Canada, Aurora has a presence in 24 countries, which leaves even well-established players like Canopy Growth and Aphria well in the distance. These overseas sales channels will come in particularly handy if and when dried cannabis flower becomes oversupplied and commoditized in Canada. Should this happen, Aurora will have numerous overseas sales channels to reduce or eliminate any domestic excess supply, removing the possibility of serious margin degradation. Also, don't forget that Aurora's "secret weapon" is that it's chosen to focus on the medical marijuana market, as opposed to the much larger recreational consumer pool. Although this means giving up on some low-hanging fruit, the decision should lead to higher and more consistent margins. That's because medical pot patients use marijuana more frequently, buy product more often, and are considerably likelier to purchase high-margin derivatives, such as oils, than adult-use consumers. Add this up, and couple it with the growing likelihood that Aurora Cannabis will find a brand-name partner now that it's hired billionaire activist investor Nelson Peltz as a strategic advisor, and it's easy to see why investors have rallied around Aurora. Don't look now, but revenue forecasts for Aurora are tumbling But just because the investment community has flocked to Aurora, it doesn't mean everything is running smoothly. Well-known supply chain issues in Canada are wreaking havoc, and it's the most prominent growers, like Aurora, that could pay the price. On Monday, GMP Securities, which rates Aurora as a buy with a price target of 15 Canadian dollars ($11.15 U.S.), substantially cut its sales forecast for the company ahead of its third-quarter earnings release next week, as well as reduced its fiscal fourth-quarter revenue projection. According to MarketWatch, GMP analyst Martin Landry lowered his firms' fiscal third-quarter revenue estimate to CA$74 million ($55 million) from CA$91 million, and slashed Aurora's fiscal fourth-quarter sales forecast to CA$132 million ($98.1 million) from CA$150 million. Said Landry: This is to reflect the low sales volumes reported by Health Canada in the recreational channel for January and February of 2019. We continues to believe that the main reason for the limited sales growth is the cap that has been placed on the retail network by the provincial regulators, limiting the number of cannabis stores and hindering black market penetration. Landry would go on to note that Aurora had a more-than-25% share of in-stock SKUs in recreational weed stores in Ontario, Quebec, and Alberta, which make up nearly three-quarters of the Canadian market. It's time to rein in those lofty expectations For those unfamiliar, Health Canada was buried by a stack of more than 800 licensing, processing, and sales applications, as of January. In many instances, it can take months or years to review and approve these applications. There have also been delays in opening dispensaries at the provincial level, which have reduced supply. Building on the regulatory red tape, there's also been a notable shortage in compliant packaging solutions. Health Canada laid out a laundry list of requirements that retailers would need to abide by if they wanted their products on dispensary store shelves. This included tamper- and child-resistant packaging, clear warning labels, minimal branding, and no packaging that would purposefully appeal to adolescents. This long list of guidelines has created a shortage of compliant packaging, which has left raw cannabis on the sidelines awaiting processing. Long story short, these are issues that will take time to work through. Even Aurora is still in the process of completing construction on numerous greenhouse projects, and we likely won't see a full ramp up of global production for a good two years. As much as investors would like to believe that the sky is the limit for marijuana stocks like Aurora Cannabis, the glass ceiling may prove a little close for comfort over the next couple of quarters. Photo: BC Gov't A measles scare has promoted a 106 per cent increase in vaccinations of B.C. schoolchildren, compared with a year ago. Health Minister Adrian Dix provided the update on a catch-up program launched April 1 after more than two dozen cases of the highly infectious disease were diagnosed in the province this spring. Dix says the ministry sent over 550,000 letters to families with children, held 129 in-school clinics and dispensed over 3,800 measles vaccines. Health authorities focused on reviewing all students' immunization records after an outbreak that began earlier this year. The catch-up program is the first step in the government's two-phase plan to educate people about the importance of immunization and to help them become aware of their own vaccination status. Nearly 600 more in-school clinics are planned for May and June to help prevent the disease that can spread through the air when an infected person breathes, coughs or sneezes. Symptoms include cough, fever, runny nose, inflamed eyes and a distinctive red rash on the face. While it's considered a rare disease in Canada, measles is still common in other parts of the world and some cases linked to B.C.'s outbreak have been imported by travellers. What happened Shares of Tenneco (NYSE:TEN) plunged more than 35% on Thursday after the auto parts manufacturer reported quarterly results well below expectations and lowered its full-year guidance. The drop continues a troublesome trend for Tenneco shares, which have now lost more than 70% of their value over the past 12 months. So what Tenneco on Thursday morning reported first-quarter earnings of $0.52 per share, badly missing consensus expectations for $0.95 per share, on revenue that matched expectations. The company blamed lower aftermarket -- spare-part and non-automaker -- sales, coupled with China volume declines, for the weakness. It also lowered its full-year expectations. Tenneco said it now expects to generate sales of between $17.7 billion and $18.1 billion in 2019, down from previous guidance for $18.2 billion to $18.4 billion in sales, and short of the $18.23 billion consensus estimate. Tenneco is a company in transition, having acquired rival Federal-Mogul last fall for $5.4 billion. It's now planning to split the combined business into two publicly traded entities, one focused on powertrains and the other on aftermarket parts, shock absorbers, suspension systems, and brake parts. The breakup strategy is favored by activist investor Carl Icahn, the former majority owner of Federal-Mogul and -- after the buyout -- the holder of 9.9% of Tenneco's shares. But Tenneco has pushed the timing of the separation into mid-2020, with the company saying it wants additional time to "allow the two new organizations to align and stabilize business processes and systems, solidify margin and cash flow performance metrics, and strengthen their balance sheets." Now what Following the drop, Tenneco looks cheap, trading at just seven times earnings. The issue is that there is no clear catalyst to reverse the downward trend and get the shares moving higher. Instead the outlook is murky, muddied by continued merger integration and a separation that is now more than a year out. Add concerns about the health of the auto market, and it's clear why investors are not jumping in. Despite how far Tenneco has fallen, there isn't much reason to be confident the shares will outperform the S&P 500 index in the quarters to come. Photo: RCMP More senseless crime in Kelowna's downtown core. RCMP are on the hunt for thieves who managed to break into parking meters in the 400 & 1300 blocks of Ellis Street, the 1200 & 1300 blocks of Water Street, the 500 & 600 blocks of Lawrence Avenue and the 400 block of Doyle Avenue. The thefts occurred Wednesday, and as you can see in the photo, the tops of the meters were damaged to gain access to the coins inside. RCMP are asking anyone who may have witnessed the thefts or any businesses that may have surveillance video to come forward to assist with the investigation. This senseless act of vandalism caused an estimated $6,000 in damage, and officials believe that the thief only got away with approximately $100 in coins, states Cpl. Jesse ODonaghey, spokesperson for the Kelowna RCMP. Anyone with additional information is asked to contact Kelowna RCMP at 250-762-3300. Photo: CTV News UPDATE: 4:35 p.m. The U.S. Coast Guard says dozens of passengers have been rescued from a B.C. whale-watching boat off the coast of Washington state. The coast guard says the vessel operators reported on Thursday that they had purposely grounded the boat on Smith Island after taking on water for an unknown reason. Spokeswoman Amanda Norcross says the coast guard, several other agencies and Good Samaritans responded to help the boat with 45 people on board. She says initially 30 passengers were placed on a Coast Guard vessel, 11 others were transferred to a Canadian tour company vessel, and other boats were sent to help the remaining passengers. Norcross says passengers are being taken back to Victoria and four crew members stayed behind on the Eagle Wing Tours vessel to help with the salvage operation. The tour operator did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The Canadian Press ORIGINAL: 1:55 p.m. A Victoria-based whale-watching vessel in distress has been rescued by the U.S. Coast Guard. The Eagle Wing Tours boat, 4 Ever Wild began to take on water off the coast of Washington State after striking a rock near Smith Island. CTV News is reporting there have been no serious injuries and the boat has beached on Smith Island to stop it from sinking. The Joint Rescue Coordination Centre in Victoria is aware of the incident and is assisting as well. with files from CTV Vancouver Handyman Connection Launches New Location In North Carolina Leading Home Repair Company Offers Renovation and Restoration Services to Cary and Surrounding Communities May 09, 2019 // Franchising.com // CARY, NC - Handyman Connection, a home repair company in operation for more than 25 years, announced today it has opened its newest franchise in Cary, North Carolina. Handyman Connection of Cary will provide home renovation and restoration services to the communities of Apex, Cary, Holly Springs, Morrisville and Raleigh. The new location is owned and operated by local husband-and-wife team, Bill and Mary Beth Goodwin. Bill earned a bachelors degree in communication from the College of Saint Rose in Albany, New York in 1994 and has since held various positions as a media streaming and network support engineer for Bank of America and network operations manager and webcast director for the Wizetrade Group. Bills experience helped him sharpen his leadership skills in areas such as employee management, client relations and problem solving. Mary Beth earned a bachelors degree in fine arts from the Savannah College of Art and Design and has designed for companies including Target and Belk. Most recently, Mary Beth spearheaded product design projects for home decor and home textiles at her own company, Mary Beth Goodwin Design. She also has had the honor of designing exclusively for well-known HGTV designers. Mary Beth will now serve as office manager and design consultant at the newest Handyman Connection location. Together, Mary Beth and Bill bring decades of experience to their newest endeavor with Handyman Connection. Ive always wanted to own and operate a business, and Handyman Connection has provided my wife and I with the incredible opportunity to do so, said Bill Goodwin. With a tremendous amount of support at our fingertips and a proven business model, were thrilled to launch Handyman Connection services in Cary and surrounding areas. Our local clientele have already been a pleasure to work with and we look forward to building on those relationships by providing quality services for many years to come. Ranked as the #1 Handyman Company by Qualified Remodeler, Handyman Connection operates more than 68 locations throughout 25 states and Canada. For more than 25 years, the brand has offered homeowners across North America a complete resource for professional craftsmanship and exemplary customer service. Handyman Connection offers a variety of services ranging from traditional home repairs to painting, remodeling and more. To request a free, no-obligation project estimate, contact Handyman Connection at (919) 230-7575 or visit us at handymanconnection.com/cary. About Handyman Connection Since 1991, homeowners across North America have been calling on Handyman Connection for our professional craftsmanship and exemplary customer service. Each Handyman Connection franchise is locally owned and operated, backed by the company that helped launch the industry. Our values are steeped in a long-standing dedication to the people we serve, and truly differentiate Handyman Connection as a home repair company. SOURCE Handyman Connection ### Comments: Please enable JavaScript to view the comments powered by Disqus. Disqus Wyndham Debuts Trademark Collection in Latin America with Opening of Costa Blu Beach Resort Located on the extraordinary Ambergris Caye, 38-suite adults-only resort marks Wyndham Hotels & Resorts' 26th managed hotel in Latin America and the Caribbean PARSIPPANY, N.J., May 9, 2019 // PRNewswire // - Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, the world's largest hotel franchising company with approximately 9,200 hotels across more than 80 countries, today announced the arrival of its Trademark Collection by Wyndham soft-brand to Latin America and the Caribbean with the addition of the Costa Blu Beach Resort in Belize. Every suite at Costa Blu Beach Resort, a Trademark Collection by Wyndham hotel, features a large private balcony overlooking the Caribbean Sea. Located seven miles north of San Pedro Town on the scenic Ambergris Caye, the exclusive, 38-suite, adults-only beach-front resort is located in one of the region's most sought after vacation destinations and is just offshore of the Belize Barrier Reef, the second largest barrier reef in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The resort is owned by Sandy Point Group and will be managed by Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, making it the company's 26th managed property in the region. Said Alejandro Moreno, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts president and general manager for Latin America and the Caribbean: "With nonstop flights from 17 cities in seven countries, on seven international airlines, getting to Belize has never been easier. What's more, the latest numbers released by Belize Tourism Board, show that the revenue generated in the accommodations sector has increased every year over the past seven years. Given the wealth of opportunity, we're thrilled to be opening our first managed Trademark in a place that's not only beautiful but also growing in demand." With more than 100 hotels globally, Trademark Collection by Wyndham is a soft-branded, independently-minded collection of upper-midscale and above properties. Just as no two travelers are alike - every Trademark hotel is distinctive, taking on the character of the place in which they're built. Among just some of the notable hotels in the collection are The INFINITY Hotel & Conference Center in Munich, Germany, the HYPERION Hotel Basel in Basel, Switzerland, as well as notable American locations like the Galt House Hotel in Louisville, Ky., Ravel Hotel in Long Island City, N.Y., and the Zermatt Utah Resort & Spa in Midway, Utah. Costa Blu Beach Resort, a Trademark Collection by Wyndham hotel, is adults-only and offers guests a unique experience where tranquility, relaxation and leisure are the main attractions. Resort amenities include an on-site restaurant, seaside beach bar, outdoor pool, spa services and complimentary paddleboards and kayaks for a quick ride to explore the natural wonder of Ambergris Caye. Featuring large private balconies that overlook the Caribbean Sea, all suites come fully equipped with a kitchenette, mini refrigerator, microwave, coffee maker, 40 flat screen cable TV and Wi-Fi, among other amenities. "We are very excited to be partnering with Wyndham Hotels & Resorts to bring an internationally recognized brand to Belize and the region," said Mary Dahlquist, chief operations officer of Sandy Point Group. "With their tremendous global footprint, award-winning rewards program and extensive hotel and resort management experience, we're confident that partnering with a world-class organization like Wyndham will not only elevate Costa Blu Beach Resort but also help us drive increased exposure to travelers around the world." All Trademark hotels participate in Wyndham Rewards, the world's most generous rewards program with more than 30,000 hotels, vacation club resorts and vacation rentals worldwide. Designed for the everyday traveler, members earn a guaranteed 1,000 points with every qualified stay and may redeem points for a wide-range of rewards, including free nights, gift cards, merchandise and more. Learn more at www.wyndhamrewards.com. About Trademark Collection by Wyndham Each of Trademark Collection by Wyndham's upper-midscale-and-above hotels around the world - from Germany and Switzerland to New York and Florida - boast three common attributes: character, charm, and individuality. Launched in 2017, Trademark is the first soft-brand geared to three- and four-star hotel owners passionate about upholding their hotels' independent spirit and designed for everyday travelers seeking distinctive, attainable accommodations in sought-after destinations. For more information, visit www.wyndhamhotels.com/trademark. About Wyndham Hotels & Resorts Wyndham Hotels & Resorts (NYSE: WH) is the world's largest hotel franchising company, with approximately 9,200 hotels across more than 80 countries on six continents. Through its network of approximately 812,000 rooms appealing to the everyday traveler, Wyndham commands a leading presence in the economy and midscale segments of the lodging industry. The Company operates a portfolio of 20 hotel brands, including Super 8, Days Inn, Ramada, Microtel Inn & Suites, La Quinta, Wingate, AmericInn, Hawthorn Suites, Trademark Collection, and Wyndham. Wyndham Hotels & Resorts is also a leading provider of hotel management services, with more than 400 properties under management. The Company's award-winning Wyndham Rewards loyalty program offers over 75 million enrolled members the opportunity to redeem points at tens of thousands of hotels, vacation club resorts and vacation rentals globally. For more information, visit www.wyndhamhotels.com. About Sandy Point Group The Sandy Point group of companies in Belize, Central America, is the best choice for amazing real estate ownership opportunities. Boasting the largest group of successful and beautiful resort projects on Ambergris Caye, Belize (named a Top Island Destination multiple years in a row), the Sandy Point group of companies provides clients with expert in-house services of real estate sales, property management and real estate commercial development. Visit sandypointresorts.com to find more information about the award-winning Sandy Point Resorts. Costa Blu Beach Resort, a Trademark Collection by Wyndham hotel, is adults-only and offers guests a unique experience where tranquility, relaxation and leisure are the main attractions. All suites at Costa Blu Beach Resort, a Trademark Collection by Wyndham hotel, come fully equipped with a kitchenette, mini refrigerator, microwave, coffee maker, 40 flat screen cable TV and Wi-Fi, among other amenities. Costa Blu Beach Resort, a Trademark Collection by Wyndham hotel, is an all-suite, adults-only, beach-front resort located just offshore of the Belize Barrier Reef. Cision View original content to download multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/wyndham-debuts-trademark-collection-in-latin-america-with-opening-of-costa-blu-beach-resort-300847287.html SOURCE Wyndham Hotels & Resorts ### Comments: Please enable JavaScript to view the comments powered by Disqus. Disqus In his new post, Prof. Wehrspohn will be responsible for evolving and extending the processes used by Fraunhofer to translate research results into real-world applications. That includes launching cross-institute projects with partners in industry, promoting Fraunhofers start-up culture and expanding research-based training courses in key fields of technology. Explaining the selection of Prof. Wehrspohn, Prof. Heinz Jorg Fuhrmann, Chairman of the Senate of the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft, stated: Ralf Wehrspohn is an outstanding ambassador for application-oriented research and a successful institute director, and we are pleased that he has accepted this position of responsibility on the Board. With his broad expertise, international experience and entrepreneurial mindset, we are convinced that he is ideal for the task at hand and well qualified to advance technology marketing and business models at Fraunhofer and make them future-proof. The Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft partners with companies to translate original ideas into innovations. Among its core tasks are the marketing of technological innovations and the commercialization of its own research results. We have a special role to play as the leading organization for the transfer of scientific solutions to industry and, going forward, we must continue to live up to and expand that role, said Prof. Reimund Neugebauer, President of the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft. Germanys success as an innovation hub would be unimaginable without the well-functioning transfer of research findings to industrial applications. Thats what the German science community and the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft stand for. I am pleased to welcome Ralf Wehrspohn to the Executive Board, as the new colleague responsible for this key task. As Prof. Wehrspohn stated: I explicitly wish to thank the Fraunhofer Senate for this expression of confidence in me. I sincerely look forward to systematically strengthening Fraunhofers specific expertise in transferring research results to the value chain and, hand in hand with the Fraunhofer Institutes, to accelerating the innovation process in Germany and making it a sustainable industrial society. Ralf B. Wehrspohn studied physics at the University of Oldenburg and completed his doctorate at the Ecole Polytechnique in France at the age of 26. After initially working in industry (at Philips Research in London), he qualified as a professor at the Max Planck Institute of Microstructure Physics in Halle before being offered a chair at the University of Paderborn at age 32. Prof. Wehrspohn later returned to Halle to take up a professorship at Martin-Luther-Universitat Halle-Wittenberg and a parallel appointment with the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft. He has been director of the Fraunhofer Institute for Microstructure of Materials and Systems IMWS since 2006 and chair of the Fraunhofer Group for Materials and Components MATERIALS since 2018. He holds the chair in Microstructured Material Design at Martin-Luther-Universitat Halle-Wittenberg. Prof. Wehrspohns work focuses on nanotechnology and the elucidation of microstructures. In recent years, he has also stepped up his research into the digitalization of materials. His work has garnered him several prizes, including the Heinz Maier-Leibnitz Prize awarded by the German Research Foundation (DFG) and the MIT (Massachusetts Institute of Technology) TR100 Innovation Award. At that point, my jaw kind of hit the floor, Chetwynd told The New York Times. I went darting down the hallway looking for the others to tell them we needed to go get the airplane. Rapid rescue effort In short, the CAF did that, then raised millions of dollars to restore her to mint World War II appearance and to make her flight-worthy. Now, Doug Rozendaal and his comrades get to fly her from air show to air show and share the C-47s incredible story with the rest of the world. From 9 a.m. Friday to 5 p.m. Sunday, Thats All Brother will take part in the always-popular Joint Base Andrews Air Show. She wont be flying, but will be open to the public for tours on May 11-12. Get details on the planes Facebook page or at jba.af.mil/Home/Air-Show. Some 3,500 people have already signed up to see Thats All Brother this weekend when it visits Andrews. Its next stop, in mid-May, will be the Waterbury-Oxford Airport in Oxford, Conn. And then, onto Normandy. Separately, other World War II era aircraftsix other C-47s and a T-6 Texanare due to fly over Arlington National Cemetery at about 11:30 a.m. Friday. Before assembling in Frederick, Md., to head to Arlington, they will pass over Manassas, Woodbridge, Clinton and Oxon Hill, Md. A Navy corpsman accused of brutally raping a King George woman in her home last week was denied bond following a hearing Wednesday in King George General District Court. Andrew Hoffman Black, 38, is charged with rape, sodomy and burglary. His attorney, Alan Polsky, tried to convince Judge V. James Ventura to grant a bond, pointing out that Black has no criminal record and claiming he is not a flight risk. But Ventura quickly denied the request after hearing prosecutor Mike Murphy say that in addition to sexually assaulting the woman, Black also dragged her down a hallway by her hair and bashed her head into a wall. Blood was later recovered in the womans home and on Blacks shirt, according to the evidence. According to the prosecutor, the victim was at work the night of April 30 when she met Black through a mutual acquaintance. She later got a ride from Black to a bar in Fairview Beach, where they both had a couple of drinks. Black, who is married and works in the clinic on the Dahlgren base, later offered to give the woman a ride home and she accepted. Murphy said that as far as the woman was concerned, there was nothing romantic about the evening. A northern Virginia children's entertainer who is known as "Mr. Knick Knack" has been charged with possessing child pornography, and investigators are exploring whether the man had any inappropriate contact with juveniles, Fairfax County police said. Steven Rossi, 58, of Reston, Virginia, was arrested on April 30 on 10 counts of possessing illicit images of children after authorities received a tip earlier in the month the entertainer had child pornography, police said. Detectives have not uncovered evidence that Rossi had contact with the children in the images, but they are asking anyone who might have information about inappropriate interactions between Rossi and children to come forward, police said. Rossi plays music and has performed across northern Virginia. Rossi posted bond on May 2 and is next scheduled to be in court on June 11. Anyone with information about Rossi is asked to call the Major Crimes Bureau at 703-246-7800. The students worked on their solar cars on Thursday afternoons until 5:30 or 6 p.m. They started by drawing designs on paper and then had to figure out how to translate those designs to 3D. The hardest part was figuring out what gears to use so it wouldnt be too heavy or too light, said Brett Lambert, 10. Another challenge was making sure the motors started fast enough to propel the car forward but not so fast that the wheels would just spin out. At the competition in April, the cars raced on a 100-foot track, a distance they could cover in about 10 seconds. The Caroline students who went to the competition in Richmond also got to tour VCUs campus and meet engineering students and faculty. It was cool just to have them get the exposure to a college campus and to open up that future for them, Schieber said. I love that we were able to give the kids the opportunity to get out of their bubble. Dixie said shes sad that the contest is over. I definitely want to do it again next year, she said. Be the first to know Get local news delivered to your inbox! Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. It just kind of appears that Mrs. Stonehill parachuted into the Ralph Bunche organization to get it done, Jordon said during the public-comment portion of Tuesdays meeting, but there werent the resources, the organization to get it done. Their concerns led the supervisors to do whats become commonplace with Ralph Bunche matters: They postponed action. Several supervisors said they needed time to talk to members of the two groups, given that most of us only heard about [problems] yesterday, Supervisor Cathy Binder said. That is not enough time to make an informed decision. Supervisor Chairman Jeff Bueche said he liked the concept presented by Stonehill, which included space for the alumni groups museum, a performance area and patio, restaurant and outdoor amphitheater. What I dont like is that two nonprofit organizations that have a vision for Ralph Bunche cant seem to get along, he said. I think its a power struggle over a building that belongs to King George County. Here we are again, talking about projects, and the building is still sitting there decaying, and nothing is getting done. STILL IN GOOD SHAPE Although state requirements, federal law, and child welfare best practices prioritize placement with relatives, local departments in Virginia are not using relatives nearly as frequently as other states, according to a report released last year by the General Assemblys Joint Legislative and Review Commission. Virginias low rate of placement with relatives can be explained, at least in part, by inconsistent efforts by caseworkers to identify relatives who may be willing and able to assume the role of foster parent, the report stated. Noting that Virginias foster care system, which relies heavily on non-related foster parents, has failed to meet the basic health and safety needs of the children in its care, JLARC recommended that executive action be taken to require DSS staff to routinely search for the relatives of children in foster care and issue clear guidance to local departments on the existing policies that can facilitate the approval of relatives to serve as foster parents. Some children may not have close family members living nearby. Even if they do, the childs relatives may not be able to assume the responsibility of raising them. But bureaucratic obstacles no doubt play a large role in the unacceptably low percentages of children who wind up in kinship care. News editor's pick centerpiece featured Bullets of unknown origin seldom tracked down, police say kelseywalling / KELSEY WALLING/The Daily News Jessica Robertson looks out her apartment at Club of the Isle in Galveston on Tuesday, May 7, 2019. In January, a stray bullet came through the window and shattered a mug in her kitchen. kelseywalling / KELSEY WALLING/The Daily News Jessica Robertson holds a photo she took of a stray bullet that came through a window at her apartment at Club of the Isle in Galveston on Tuesday, May 7, 2019. Courtesy /Jessica Robertson Jessica Robertsons apartment window was struck by a bullet of unknown origin on Jan. 10. Courtesy /Jessica Robertson Galveston resident Jessica Robertson said a bullet of unknown origin shattered a mug in her kitchen on Jan. 10. GALVESTON Jessica Robertson wasnt home when the bullet crashed through her apartments window. Her husband called her while she was at work Jan. 10 to ask what had happened to his coffee cup: the Punisher-themed one, with the target on the side. It was broken on the counter. The first suspect was the cat, she said. But on closer inspection, they found the culprit had come from the outside. A 9 mm bullet appeared to have broken through the couples fifth-floor window, ricocheted off the wall, and flew across the apartment, Robertson said. The bullet hit the cup, and ended up in a wall, she said. She called the police. First a patrol officer came, then later a crime-scene investigator, who took a picture of the wall and the window. Theyd look into it, the officer said. Investigations into cases like Robertsons are tricky and often unsatisfying, officials said this week. While theories may emerge about a bullets origins, in the end, theres little chance of a satisfying conclusion. In the four months since the bullet arrived, shed gotten no answer from police, Robertson said. To this day, shes hesitant to say shes sure about where the bullet came from, although looking out her living room window, its hard not to come up with a theory. I dont think it was intentional at all, she said. But we started to wonder the how and why, and the first thing that really came to mind was about the shooting range. The Galveston Rifle and Pistol Clubs shooting range is within sight of her apartments windows. Its about 700 yards away from the building. Robertson reached out to the club the day after finding the bullet, she said. After some back and forth, the clubs president said he had determined the bullet hadnt come from the range. I dont have any reason not to believe him, Robertson said. Robertson said she received that answer in April, the day after police responded to a different reported shooting, from a man at the Stella Mare RV Park, who reported being struck in the arm while he was standing in his driveway. The bullet came down from the sky, he said. A Galveston Police Department spokesman this week said police had not made any determination about where Robertsons bullet came from. Its unlikely they will ever know for sure, police Capt. Joshua Schirard said. Its 100 percent speculation about where that bullet came from, Schirard said. The police department does not keep a record of gun shots with unknown origins, Schirard said. There was no history of investigations into reckless discharges of firearms from the range, he said. While police often get reports about gunshots, its rare they receive a report like Robertsons, where a bullet actually hit or entered a residence, he said. There are possibilities other than the gun range for where the bullet came from a drive-by shooting, for instance, Schirard said. Theres only so much we can do with it, Schirard said. The Galveston Rifle and Pistol Club is not a new addition to the island, and was likely in its location long before the apartment complex or RV park were built, the club president said. The range has been in the same place for 70 years, club president Mark Porretto said. Club members are given a code to get inside a gate and use the facility, and members are expected to act on an honor system, Porretto said. Theyre told to sign into a visitor log when using the range, he said. When theres a complaint about something that might have happened on the range, Porretto interviews the people who were at the range, according to the log book, he said. The club does not have a person monitoring activity at the range full-time, Porretto said. If a person accidentally fired a bullet off of range property, theyd be expected to report it to him, Porretto said. No one reported such an incident in January, he said. From our view, its just an accusation, Porretto said. Theres just too many variables. Current and former city officials acknowledged Wednesday there was at least one effort in recent years to address a complaint about the range. In 2016, city officials met with owners of property abutting Sweetwater Lake, a bayou just north of the range. The owners were concerned about bullets they argued were being shot over berms at the range and were landing in the water, Galveston City Attorney Donald Glywasky said. But after the meetings and research into the issue, the city told the landowners that if they wanted to see changes, theyd have to take it up with the club directly, Glywasky said. Citys are pre-empted from regulating in any way gun ranges, Glywasky said. Robertson didnt necessarily want to see anything done to the club, she said. She grew up on the West End and knows people, even family members, that were members. The range is not a big deal, she said. Whether or not the bullet came from the range, or from a drive-by shooting, or some other source, the incident had left her shaken, she said. After 10 years in the same apartment, she and her husband were considering moving, she said. I cook every night, she said. And it went straight through the kitchen. As the award winner of Users Choice Game of 2021 and Best Pick Up & Play of Google Play, Ensemble Stars!!Music launched the first English release, which takes this highly acclaimed game to the next level. Last year, as you might remember, Quantic Dream has received multiple accusations of being a toxic workplace to many of its developers. While the studio has denied those accusations, it has lost a court case in July 2018 as team members were at the center of photoshopped images with offensive purposes circulating over at the Paris office. Now, the accusation is of sexual harassment and has started to get serious when union Game Workers Unite has spread a press release about the matter. The union remarks that these facts are very, very relevant and that there are laws in place that will severely punish those found guilty. We have been informed of acts of sexual harassment and sexual assault committed against women who work and have worked in the company, said the press release. These offenses are extremely serious and are punishable by law. However, they seem to be repeated with impunity for several years because of a strong omerta; this must stop. Quantic Dream has already issued another press release from its Twitter account, saying that it is not aware of such cases and demanding that all the workers in a similar situation go and talk to the human resources to try and fix it, and relevant authorities. Its sad to hear that such a talented studio keeps getting involved in shameful accusations, and hopefully we can find out the truth soon about that. Quantic Dream is working on PC versions for Heavy Rain, Beyond: Two Souls and Detroit: Become Human, which are releasing exclusively on Epic Games Store this year. Source South Africa: Thank you for voting peacefully Government has thanked the millions of South Africans from all walks of life who voted in the countrys sixth democratic national and provincial elections. Thank you, South Africa, we have done it again. We have kept our democracy strong and vibrant and have contributed to a better tomorrow, said Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) acting Director-General Phumla Williams on Thursday. Government said this demonstration of active citizenship and patriotism displayed by countless South Africans was truly inspirational. We appreciate the tolerance, dignity and patience with which voters conducted themselves as they waited to cast their vote, GCIS said in a statement. Government said these elections are an affirmation of the strength of the countrys democracy; the voices of millions of voters are a testament that South Africans take their hard won right to vote, very seriously. Our regular elections since 1994 and the work of successive democratic administrations, has built on our Constitutional democracy. These elections have shown that our democracy is alive and that freedom reigns, the GCIS said. These successful elections are a culmination of years of work by the IEC, including two hugely successful voter registration weekends prior to the elections, where over a million new voters were registered. Of the 700 000 new voters who registered during the final registration weekend in January this year, over 81% [574 899] were under 30-years-old. Government applauds first time voters for their commitment to the countrys democracy. The enthusiastic manner in which they participated in their first election was a joy to behold. We congratulate the IEC for the smooth running of the 2019 General Elections, and further commend them for their swift response to problems that arose at various polling stations. Counting and verification of votes is underway and we appeal to the public to be patient and await the final results. We appreciate the dedication and hard work of thousands of IEC officials who are undertaking the arduous and time consuming counting and verification process. Let us allow them time and space to conclude their processes, the GCIS said. Government would also like to congratulate the South African Police Service, South African National Defence Force, Metro Police Officers, and other government departments for their hard work and dedication which ensured mostly incident free elections. The security measures, most notably in identified hot spot areas, contributed greatly to elections which were peaceful and conducted in a spirit of democracy. As part of the efforts to ensure successful elections, Home Affairs offices across the country opened their doors at 7am on Election Day and remained open until 9pm to assist the public with enabling documents to vote. From 6 to 8 May, the Department of Home Affairs assisted 152 000 people to collect their Identity Documents or to apply for Temporary Identity Certificates. In this election there were a record number of political parties, which is a reflection of the deepening of our multi-party democracy. All political parties worked together to strengthen the countrys democracy and were instrumental in encouraging people to exercise their democratic right. Government acknowledges the positive spirit in which the political parties conducted themselves during the elections. We appreciate the comprehensive coverage of our elections by the national and international media, and affirm the positive role of the media in strengthening and enhancing our democracy, the GCIS said. Media continue to play a critical role in reflecting South Aricas advances, challenges and developmental journey since 1994. We also thank domestic and international observer missions for monitoring our electoral process. As a young democracy we have come a long way in our 25 Years of Freedom, and have improved the lives of people. While there are challenges we are a resilient country that cherishes and guards our democracy. Government remains committed to dealing with the challenges of poverty, inequality and unemployment. We will continue to build on the programme of government to better the lives of South Africans. In the spirit of keeping alive our democracy, South Africans are encouraged to work together with those they elected. Our role as active citizens does not end with voting; together we can move South Africa forward. SAnews.gov.za This story has been published on: 2019-05-09. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. The U.S. Department of Education will appeal a judges ruling that could affect how school districts across the country spend millions of dollars in federal special education money. The department has wanted to delay the implementation of a rule related to how states monitor their school districts identification of minority students for special education, in addition to their discipline or placement in restrictive settings. Districts found to have significant disproportionality of minority students in one or more of these areas, compared to white students, must set aside 15 percent of their federal special education funding to spend on remedies. That monitoring is already required under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. But the Equity in IDEA rule, which was finalized on December 2016, requires states to take a standardized approach in how they evaluate their districts for disproportionality. Only about 3 percent of the nations districts are identified as having issues of concern now; it is expected that the new rule would mean more school districts would join that number. Under Education Secretary Betsy DeVos, the department has moved to put off the Equity in IDEA rule by two years for further study, saying it might prompt special education quotas. But U.S. District Court Judge Tanya Chutkans decision March 7 vacated the Education Departments delaying action. She ruled that the delay is a violation of the Administrative Procedure Act, which governs how federal agencies propose and implement regulations. Since that decision, there had been little word from the departmentother than the notice of appeal, dated May 6about what it planned to do in the wake of the judges ruling. DeVos has been asked about the decision by lawmakers and recently said the department was moving towards implementation. The Council for Parent Attorneys and Advocates, which sued the Education Department to get the rule reinstated, said that it was aware of the departments action. Of course, states are still required to carry out the Equity in IDEA regulations regardless of the legal proceedings, and we urge them to come into compliance as required by law, the organization said in a statement. May 22, 1980 May 4, 2019 Kirk L. Burkholder went to live in Heaven on Saturday, May 4, 2019, following a tragic farming accident on the family farm. The son of Weldon and Judy Burkholder, Kirk was born on May 22, 1980, and was the second of two children. Kirk grew up on his familys grass seed and livestock farm. Upon graduating high school, Kirk traveled throughout the USA and abroad, working in the area of agriculture. Kirk used the multiple farming perspectives learned in his travels and applied them appropriately to the family farm. He also worked for the Oregon State Police upon being convinced by a friend to apply. Kirk was a valued trooper for eight and one-half years before returning to the family farm. Kirk was known for his professionalism and ability to relate to the public he proudly served. Kirk was known as a man who would give you the shirt off his back, but simultaneously as the guy you had to watch as he was always working on his next practical joke. Nobody was immune to his good-natured jokes, and he recently went so far as convincing his wife, Amanda, she had lost her wedding ring in the sheep stalls so he could secretly get it upgraded. Kirks adventurous spirit was evident in his love for his family, the genuine friendships he shared and his relentless work ethic. Kirk was a lifelong member of Fairview Mennonite Church and his faith guided his life. He enjoyed hunting and farming, but most of all, building a relationship with his family. Kirk is preceded in death by his father, Weldon Burkholder. He is survived by his loving wife of nine years, Amanda Miller Burkholder; his three children, Adelina, Lillie Mae and Andrew; his mother, Judy Burkholder; and his brother, Kent Burkholder and family. Kirk has touched and impacted so many lives. His friendship will be missed. In lieu of flowers, a donation fund has been created by the Santiam Christian School for the future education of his children. Additionally, the Kirk Burkholder Memorial Fund has an account at Umpqua Bank for donations to assist Amanda and their children. A viewing is scheduled from 5 to 8 p.m. on Friday, May 10, at AAsum-Dufour Funeral Home. A service to celebrate Kirks life will be at 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, May 11 at Fairview Mennonite Church, followed immediately by a graveside service at the church. A fellowship reception will be held at the multipurpose building thereafter. AAsum-Dufour Funeral Home is handling the arrangements (www.aasum-dufour.com). July 23, 1942 April 21, 2019 Randi Baker passed away on April 21 from a long battle with cancer. She was born July 23, 1942 in Lebanon, Oregon, to Rollie and Celestia Shaw. Randi attended Queen Anne School until the third grade and moved to California for grades fourth through 10th grades. She returned to Lebanon High School for her junior and senior year, met Larry and graduated in 1960. After high school, she worked for Allstate Insurance. She and Larry were married on March 25, 1962. While Larry was in the military, they lived in Klamath Falls and Montana. She and their children returned to Lebanon while he was stationed abroad. Upon his return, they made their permanent home on Shady Oak Lane. She held many jobs secretary, dental hygienist, and retired from Lebanon High School as a library assistant. She then returned to school to get her license to be an X-ray technologist and worked for Samaritan Health Orthopedic Clinic. She is survived by her children, Alan Baker, Julie Gerig and Kelly Baker, all of Lebanon; eight grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her sister, Virginia Brown; brothers, Lonnie Shaw and Buddy Shaw; and grandchild, Eli Gerig. She was a member of Jehovahs Witnesses. She loved to paint and painted throughout her life. Randi was a member of the Linn County Art Guild in Lebanon. She was an award-winning artist. Larry and Randi also enjoyed square dancing and are members of the Lebanon Square Circlers. There will be a memorial service at 2 p.m. on May 11, 2019, at the Lebanon Jehovahs Witnesses Kingdom Hall, 150 S. 8th St. The family also desires to have a celebration of life from 3 to 5 p.m. on May 23 at the River Center, 3000 S. Santiam Highway, Lebanon. Memorial Contributions may be given to Linn County Art Guild or Evergreen Hospice. Huston-Jost Funeral Home is handling arrangements. As we wrote this editorial on Wednesday afternoon, it was uncertain when the members of the state Senate's Republican caucus would return to the Capitol, to give the Senate the 20-member caucus required for that body to take any action whatsoever. Negotiations were continuing between Democratic leaders and the members of the Republican Senate caucus; Republicans, who are in what they have jokingly called a "super minority," don't have the floor strength to vote down bills that would raise taxes such as the gross receipts tax on certain Oregon businesses that would raise an estimated $1 billion a year for the state's K-12 schools. That bill, House Bill 3427, is among the current bones of contention between Republicans and Democrats; Republicans say they want the bill sent back to committee for changes that they have not specified, possibly part of a strategy to put it in limbo until the clock runs out on the session. That's probably a long shot, especially with nearly two months remaining in the session. (This walkout strategy which, to be fair, Democrats have used in the past tends to work best at the very end of a session, when time truly is at a premium.) Republicans also want to see a handful of other bills killed, including the proposed carbon cap-and-trade measure, House Bill 2020, and an omnibus gun-control bill, Senate Bill 978. They also want Democrats to guarantee the passage of Senate Bill 2008, which would end the automatic referral of juvenile suspects charged with Measure 11 crimes to adult court. (This bill has been championed by Republican Sen. Jackie Winters.) In exchange, Republicans said they would return to the Senate and also would provide five votes of support to a series of measures aimed at reforming Oregon's public pension system, which would suggest that Democrats are not at all united in their support for pension reform. At this point, you may be wondering the same thing that we wondered: Why does the state Senate require 20 members for a quorum in the first place? After all, most other bodies define a quorum the minimum number of people needed before any official action can be taken as 50% plus one. If that was the case in the Senate, you could have an quorum with just 16 members and since Democrats hold 18 seats, any Republican attempt to prevent the quorum would be moot. (And that gross receipts tax would be heading to Gov. Kate Brown's desk for her signature.) Here's the answer: The state constitution requires both the Senate and the House of Representatives to have two-thirds of their members present for a quorum. That works out to 20 members in the Senate, and 40 in the 60-member House. It's very unusual for any political party to hold those kinds of majorities in the Legislature, so our speculation is that this provision in the state constitution is designed in part to encourage bipartisan cooperation. That it hasn't worked that way, at least in this case, is a signal that Republican legislators have run out of other cards to play although if the measure eventually passes the Legislature, as we expect it will, you can be sure that at least some GOP stalwarts will be on the front lines of the inevitable campaign to overturn the tax at the ballot box. Regardless of how this plays out, you had to feel bad for 13-year-old Linus O'Brien of Albany, who traveled to the Capitol on Tuesday to serve as one of the Senate's honorary pages for the day. Linus and the day's other page, 15-year-old Sean Miller of Keizer, were planning to perform the honor guard ceremony for the Senate but never got a chance to do that. Both said they applied for the honor because they wanted to get more acquainted with the inner workings of government. In a way, they got that. (mm) Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 The Gazette-Times editorial of April 18 conceded (somewhat begrudgingly, it seemed) that the vast majority of Americans paid less in federal income tax in 2018 than in 2017. Yet, while providing no documentation and citing no examples, it flatly stated that the new law unduly benefits the rich. Really? Someone needs to prove that to me. Lets examine some numbers. On the macroeconomic side, The Tax Foundation has reported that, in 2016, the government collected $1.4 trillion in personal income tax, and the top 1% paid 37.3% of that (up from 25.8% in 1986). That equates to $522 billion paid by that segment. The G-T goes on to bemoan that, the top 1% of taxpayers got nearly 17% of the total benefit from tax reform." Pay 37.3% of the total tax, get 17% of of the tax cut; this unduly benefits them how? Lets do some easy math to further illustrate that this premise lacks validity. We already know the 2016 government grab was $1.4 trillion. For demonstrative purposes only, well assume the 2018 law would have reduced that by $100 billion to $1.3 trillion. The 17% of benefit means the 1% pay $17 billion less, thus reducing their tax burden from $522 billion to $505 billion. This, however, makes their share of all personal income tax 38.8%, up rather drastically from the previous 37.3%. Where is the disproportionate benefit? Lets look also at a microeconomic perspective, as the editorial pointed out that the average tax cut for the 1% exceeded $30,000, which was probably higher than yours or mine (no argument). An Oregon couple with $1 million taxable income would have paid $341,231 in 2017 and $309,379 in 2018 a reduction of almost $32,000. But (and this is a very big but), would their taxable income have remained the same? You will have heard of the SALT (state and local taxes) limitation of $10,000 in itemized deductions under the new law. The more you pay in property tax and state income tax (in effect, the richer you are), the greater the likelihood your taxable income goes up from 2017 to 2018. Our Oregon couples $1 million taxable income in 2017, would have earned them an Oregon tax bill of $96,274 (ouch!), which could have been used, depending on other factors, to lower federal taxable income. In 2018, however, they can only use $10,000 of that, and the remaining $86,274 effectively raises their taxable income. At their 37% tax rate, this increases their 2018 tax liability by (wait for it) ... almost $32,000! Bottom line no benefit from the new law. One other point the Tax Policy Center data used in the G-T editorial shows that well over 80% of households with income over $50,000 actually received a tax cut, but a number of households dont think they did. This would seem to speak to a combination of the effectiveness of the deliberate mistruth campaign perpetrated by the Democratic Party and the propensity of vast numbers of Americans to base their entire grasp of how tax law affects them on the amount of their refund. Either scenario reflects rather poorly on a system that leaves tens of millions with no clear understanding of what happens to hundreds of billions of dollars which, once upon a time, was their money. John Brenan lives in Corvallis. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 While New Zealand is busy with a referendum to legalise cannabis, the American city of Denver have made massive strides towards decriminalising another drug. A measure just passed to decriminalize psilocybin mushrooms, more commonly known as magic mushrooms, in the city of Denver, which is in the state of Colorado where cannabis was legalised in 2014. Initiative 301 allows possession or use of magic mushrooms by individuals who are at least 21. The idea behind the initiative is to keep users out of jail, with Decriminalize Denver campaign manager Kevin Matthews saying No one deserves to go to jail and lose their family, their livelihood, their jobs for something that has a therapeutic benefit, ahead of the vote. Lightweight old-school design Design-wise, the JBL Go+ is made out of plastic encased within a rubberized exterior. The speaker features a basic box shaped design; nothing fancy but suitable for all surroundings. The JBL logo is embedded both at the front speaker grille as well as the rear. The company has used a good quality plastic to design the speaker and it feels rugged to hold, so it wouldn't be a problem if you accidentally drop your Go+. The media control keys are placed on the top including the power key, Bluetooth pairing key, volume adjusters, and the play/pause key. The left edge of the speaker houses the AUX port along with a microUSB port. While the right edge has an outlet with which you can connect straps making it easy to carry them. Overall, the speaker features a decent form factor with light weight design adding to its portability. Specifications and audio performance The latest JBL entrant packs a single 40mm transducer to deliver a loud sound output. Even with an output of 3W, the speaker gets satisfyingly loud providing a rich music listening experience. There is an inbuilt microphone using which one can answer calls. The speaker uses Bluetooth v4.1 for wireless connectivity. The JBL Go+ delivers an impressive audio output with thumping bass and performs well with every genre of music. The vocals are clear and the instruments in a song are easily distinguishable. The speaker produces balanced mids and highs. The punchy bass enhances the overall audio quality. What we really liked about the speaker is that the audio does not muffle or distort at maximum volume levels. This makes the speaker optimum for house parties and small gatherings. The loud audio also makes it suitable for outdoor activities such as camping and hiking. We were also impressed by the performance while streaming media online. We also didn't experience any issues with the audio playback while playing shows and movies on Netflix, Amazon Prime Videos and Hotstar and others. Pairing and battery As mentioned earlier, the JBL Go+ comes with Bluetooth connectivity support. It is compatible with various devices such as smartphones, tablets and laptops, etc. Pairing the speaker with other devices is simple and you will not face any challenges while doing so. To connect a new device, you will need to press the pairing key placed next to the power button. The device will go into the pairing mode once you press the pairing button. The notification LED placed inside the speaker grill at the front will blink rapidly when the device is in paring mode. The speaker has a good connectivity range and there is no noticeable audio break-up with up to 10m distance. The speaker is fuelled by a 730mAh Li-Ion battery reservoir that can be charged using a standard microUSB port. It takes around three hours for the speakers to charge from zero to 100 percent. With full charge we got up to 4-5 hours of backup with the media playing at 50-75 percent. The backup reduces when the speaker plays audio at maximum levels. Overall, the battery backup of the speaker is good and you will be able enjoy your favorite music without the battery draining out fast. Verdict The portable speaker market in India has a wide range of options to choose from, especially, the budget speaker segment. The competition amongst the brands is stiff as everyone is coming up with top-end products. The JBL Go has been one of the most successful speakers in the budget segment. The latest entrant, the JBL GO+ is no different. It not only offers amazing audio quality, it is lightweight and delivers a longer battery backup. Besides, the sub 2K price point along with the brand value, makes it one of the sweetest deal out there. If high-resolution audio and brand value is what you are looking for, then the JBL GO+ is worth the buy. Redmi laptop might be announced alongside 855 flagship phone News oi-Abhinaya Prabhu An affordable Redmi laptop is likely on cards. Xiaomi's sub-brand Redmi is gearing up to host an event in China on May 13. At the event, the company is anticipated to take the wraps off its flagship smartphone that will employ a Qualcomm Snapdragon 855 SoC for the first time. While this itself is interesting, there is yet another enticing information that has emerged online. As per a Twitter-based tipster Sudhanshu Ambhore, it looks like the company could be launching laptops alongside the flagship smartphone. Given that Xiaomi already makes laptops, it shouldn't be surprising to see its sub-brand Redmi also coming up with laptops. This is something like Huawei and Honor releasing computers under their own MateBook and MagicBook respectively. What to expect from Redmi laptop? As of now, there is no confirmation regarding the launch of the Redmi laptop. But if it exists, then it will be priced relatively cheaper than Xiaomi's existing laptops. Also, it is expected to feature downgraded specifications and features. Unfortunately, this laptop will be exclusive to the Chinese market, which could be disappointing to fans across the world. Redmi K20 Pro specs At the May 13 launch event, Redmi is likely to take the wraps off its first Snapdragon 855-powered smartphone. This device is believed to be dubbed Redmi K20 Pro. The smartphone is said to feature an in-display fingerprint sensor instead of a physical one at its rear and arrive with a pop-up selfie camera. Also, it is likely to feature triple rear cameras with the primary sensor being a 48MP one. As per the existing reports, this upcoming smartphone is believed to flaunt a huge 6.3-inch AMOLED display with FHD+ resolution and a capacious 4000mAh battery along with support for 27W fast charging technology. Besides the Redmi flagship smartphone, Xiaomi is also working on two new Android One devices - Mi A3 and Mi A3 Lite. These smartphones are likely to feature the latest Snapdragon 700 series processors and a pop-up selfie camera. A recent teaser from the company hinted at the possibility of triple rear cameras on the Mi A3. Via 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 Russia expels two Swedish diplomats in tit-for-tat move Iran Press TV Wed May 8, 2019 05:52PM Russia has expelled two Swedish diplomats after Stockholm denied visas to Russian envoys, Sweden's foreign ministry says. Swedish Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Sofia Nahringbauer said on Wednesday that her country has previously refused to extend the visa of a Russian diplomat and denied Russian applications for diplomatic visas. "Russia has responded by asking two Swedish diplomats to leave Russia, which we regret," she added. Nahringbauer declined to comment on whether Stockholm would take further actions. Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova told a news briefing in Moscow on Wednesday that the move was in retaliation for Sweden's refusal to grant visas. The actions come in the wake of a spying row between the two countries. In February, Sweden's authorities arrested a Swedish technology consultant on suspicion of spying for Russia while he was having dinner at a restaurant in Stockholm with a Russian diplomat. Back then, Swedish security services said they believed the Swedish citizen had been "recruited as an agent by a Russian intelligence officer posing as a diplomat in Sweden". The Russian diplomat reportedly left Sweden after being briefly detained. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russia Expels Two Swedish Diplomats In Retaliatory Measure May 08, 2019 Sweden's Foreign Ministry says two of its diplomats have been expelled from Russia following a move by Stockholm to deny visas to two of Moscow's envoys. The expulsion, announced on May 8, was another blow to relations following an earlier diplomatic dispute over alleged Russian spying in the Nordic nation. "Two Swedish diplomats have been asked to leave Russia," Swedish Foreign Ministry spokesman Rasmus Eljanskog said. "We regret the Russian Foreign Ministry's decision." Eljanskog said the move followed a decision by Stockholm not to extend one Russian diplomat's visa and to deny an application for a diplomatic visa for another Russian citizen. The timing of that action was not disclosed. Maria Zakharova, the spokeswoman for the Russian Foreign Ministry, told reporters in Moscow that the expulsion was in retaliation for Stockholm's earlier decision on its envoys. Sweden has long expressed concerns about the threat of Russian espionage. The country's head of counterintelligence last year warned that Moscow posed "the biggest intelligence threat to Sweden." In late February, Swedish authorities arrested a technology worker, alleging the person had been "recruited as an agent by a Russian intelligence officer posing as a diplomat in Sweden." The 45-year-old Swedish suspect denied the allegations and was released from custody in late March. Local media described the man as a naturalized Swedish citizen who previously held a Russian passport. The Russian diplomat, identified by the media as Yevgeny Umerenko, left Sweden several weeks after the incident, Swedish authorities said. Based on reporting by AFP, dpa, AP, and TASS Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/russia-expels- two-swedish-diplomats-in-retaliatory -measure/29929276.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 SECNAV Stresses Urgency to Dominate Future Conflicts during Final Day of SAS 2019 Navy News Service Story Number: NNS190508-14 Release Date: 5/8/2019 3:40:00 PM By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Brittney Kinsey, Defense Media Activity NATIONAL HARBOR, Md (NNS) -- Secretary of the Navy Richard V. Spencer provided the keynote address during a luncheon on the final day of the annual Sea-Air-Space (SAS) exposition at the Gaylord National Convention Center, May 8, 2019. Spencer highlighted several topics concerning the future of the Department of the Navy (DON), including readiness, partnerships and improving processes. "The Department of the Navy's strategy for restoring readiness, strengthening relationships and reforming our processes has been set," he said. "And now we're building on that foundation with a disciplined focus on people, process and capabilities." The task of shifting into a more sustainable force is one that will require an increase in velocity for the DON, Spencer explained. "We want to be capable to dominate future conflicts from the seafloor to space - blue water, the littorals, mountains and desert - and also throughout the information and data domain," he said. "And we must execute this vision with truly a sense of urgency. We have the money; we do not have the ability to buy time. We must continually think how we should improve and improve at the speed of relevance so that our Sailors and Marines are always prepared to deliver the fight tonight and win. Spencer additionally emphasized how learning and risk-taking play key roles in achieving such a vision. "At every level, the Navy-Marine Corps team must be a continual learning organization, constantly challenging assumptions to find ways to increase readiness and lethality," he said. "We're migrating from a culture of risk eradication to one of understanding and managing risk while dynamically changing the way that we will meet the demands of the force." Prior to Spencer's remarks, other military and civilian defense leadership conducted panels on expeditionary warfare, artificial intelligence and the modernization of military training. During the expeditionary warfare panel, Rear Adm. Jim Kilby, director of warfare integration (N9I) explained that littoral combat ships (LCS), small surface vessels, unmanned surface and undersea vessels are all important procurements expeditionary forces need to shift the battle lines away from shore and align with the national defense strategy. "In the Pentagon, as we talk about expeditionary operations, we don't view these amphibious platforms as just a transport ship or a truck," said Kilby. "They're much more than that. They provide access, maneuver, sustainment - with an airport, seaport, hospital - and a very capable combat systems suite. So those, in conjunction with things like the Joint Strike Fighter, are really changing the way we view those assets and how they would help us in this great power competition." Kilby noted expeditionary advanced basing operations (EABO) are an important key to sustaining maritime superiority in the future. "When you think about expeditionary advanced basing operations and the ability to use that exquisite sensor and weapons from remote land platforms, connected with the Navy, there's a powerful ability to sustain our forces in a contested environment." said Kilby. "We should think of things in that advanced, integrated, connected mode of the ability to get to integrated fires across [the Navy and Marine Corps]. And those are the kinds of conversations I've had ... as we've advanced this thinking collectively as a Naval fight vice a Navy fight." Panelists also discussed the evolving process of modernizing the Navy's training and its efforts to improve the reliability, accessibility, usability and convenience of personnel services for Sailors. "When it comes to modernization, we know that Sailors do not learn better through PowerPoint slides," said Rear Adm. John Nowell, Jr., director of military personnel plans and policy (N13). "It's more about: "Can they learn better on a device? Can they learn better digitally? Can they learn better virtually, or with an avatar?" Part of that process includes transforming the Navy's human resource experience through consolidation, bringing a host of sites together under services like MyNavy Portal, MyNavy Career Center, the Advancement Dashboard and the Detailing Marketplace. "We are taking a suite of systems that are not interoperable, and we are collapsing them into one family and then moving them to the cloud," said Nowell. "We are going to move [these systems] from behind a [common access card], allowing Sailors to access their records, negotiate their orders and do training from their own mobile device. It is about modernizing our personnel system to improve our training and career readiness where the Sailor is resilient, tough and has the support as we develop them as leaders." Founded in 1965 and the largest maritime exposition in the United States, SAS brings together the U.S. defense industrial base, private sector U.S. companies and key military decision makers for an annual event to share the most current policies, programs, information and technology relevant to maritime service. SAS takes place May 6-8 and will include speaker and professional development sessions and dynamic maritime and defense exhibits on the latest technology and military equipment. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address NATO Partners Visit Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group Navy News Service Story Number: NNS190508-13 Release Date: 5/8/2019 3:10:00 PM By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Matt Herbst, USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) Public Affairs IONIAN SEA (NNS) -- North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) military representatives from the European theater visited the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72), flagship of the Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group (CSG), May 7. Rear Adm. Roy Kitchener, U.S. Deputy Military Representative for NATO, and representatives from Finland, Germany, Greece, Kingdom of Denmark, Poland, Republic of Bulgaria, Spain, and the United Kingdom landed aboard Abraham Lincoln in a C-2A Greyhound, attached to the "Rawhides" of Fleet Logistics Support Squadron (VRC) 40. The purpose of the visit was to familiarize senior officials with U.S. Navy carrier operations and enhance partnerships among NATO allies. The guests toured the ship, visiting spaces such as the hangar bay, bridge and primary flight control, in addition to observing flight operations on the flight deck. Enhancing interoperability among allies to enhance maritime security and deter threats is an essential focus of the Abraham Lincoln CSG deployment in the region. "Cooperation with our allies is very important," Rear Adm. John Wade, commander, Carrier Strike Group 12, said. "We all have interests in peace and stability in this critical and important region. Working together gives us increased capacity and is a deterrent in and of itself." The Abraham Lincoln CSG is deployed in support of maritime security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of operations. With Abraham Lincoln as the flagship, deployed strike group assets include staffs, ships and aircraft of Carrier Strike Group 12, Destroyer Squadron 2, the Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Leyte Gulf (CG 55) and Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 7; as well as the Alvaro de Bazan-class frigate ESPS Mendez Nunez (F 104). NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Pacific Partnership 2019 continues with welcoming ceremony in Vietnam Navy News Service Story Number: NNS190508-09 Release Date: 5/8/2019 11:43:00 AM From Pacific Partnership Public Affairs TUY HOA, Vietnam (NNS) -- Senior mission leadership, host nation and partner nation personnel attended the opening ceremony of the sixth Pacific Partnership mission stop in Tuy Hoa on May 6. U.S., partner nation military members, and non-governmental organization volunteers are scheduled to take part in a variety of events including first-aid and preventive medicine knowledge exchanges, various healthcare symposiums, engineering projects, disaster response seminars, and a variety of community outreach engagements with the goal of improving the overall humanitarian and disaster preparedness in the Indo-Pacific region. "Through Pacific Partnership and other efforts, the United States aims to support Vietnam's goals and objectives while building interoperability with our regional partners and allies to ensure a free and open Indo-Pacific," U.S. Consul General Mary Tarnowka said. "As an Indo-Pacific country, the United States envisions a regional order where all nations large and small are strong, independent, and free from coercion." Pacific Partnership began in response to one of the world's most catastrophic natural disasters, the December 2004 tsunami, that devastated parts of South and Southeast Asia. The mission has evolved over the years from emphasis on direct care to an operation focused on enhancing partnerships through host nation subject matter expert and civil-military exchanges. Working at the invitation of each host nation, Pacific Partnership is joined by partner nations that include Australia, Canada, Japan, Malaysia, Peru, the Philippines, South Korea, Thailand, and the United Kingdom to strengthen disaster response preparedness around the Indo-Pacific region. Vietnam is one of several host nations for Pacific Partnership 2019. Mission teams have also made stops in the Republic of the Marshall Islands, the Philippines, the Federated States of Micronesia, Malaysia, and Timor-Leste, and will conclude with a stop in Thailand. Experts in the fields of engineering, medicine and disaster response will partner with each host nation to conduct civic-action projects, community health exchanges, medical symposiums, and disaster response exercises. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address SPAWAR Discusses the Importance of Digitizing Sea Power at Sea-Air-Space 2019 Navy News Service Story Number: NNS190508-01 Release Date: 5/8/2019 9:06:00 AM By Elisha Gamboa, Space and Naval Warfare Systems Command Public Affairs NATIONAL HARBOR, Md. (NNS) -- Space and Naval Warfare Systems Command (SPAWAR) joined ten commands from across the Information Warfare (IW) Community to discuss the shift to a digital Navy at the Navy's Information Warfare Pavilion during the 2019 Sea-Air-Space Exposition at the Gaylord National Convention Center in National Harbor, Maryland May 6-8. The IW Pavilion featured a speaker series, an engagement zone and 12 technology demonstrations where the commands showcased their dedication to ensuring the Navy's ability to compete and win in today's data-driven environment from seabed to space. Vice Adm. Matthew Kohler, deputy chief of naval operations for information warfare (OPNAV N2N6) and director of naval intelligence (DNI), kicked off the event, tying the IW mission to Defense and Navy strategies. "The National Defense Strategy as well as A Design for Maintaining Maritime Superiority both highlight the era of 'The Great Power Competition' and the impact of the increasingly complex security environment in which information is key to maintaining our competitive advantage," said Kohler. "New technologies are being developed at an accelerated speed, many of which are being demonstrated here today. We must adapt so that we can fight and win the wars of the future." During the speaker series, SPAWAR Commander Rear Adm. Christian Becker focused on the significance of digitization, emphasizing the importance of accurate information and data across all warfare domains and platforms. "The battlefield has changed. We are facing a culture shift where data is a vital strategic resource in warfare," said Becker. "To maintain our advantage in the information domain we must excel across the scope of military operations. Networks, communication and data storage with the tools to access and maximize use of the data are all key to our overall mission effectiveness across the Navy from personnel management to logistics to kinetic operations." To drive dialogues to ultimately accelerate the process of getting new capabilities to the fleet, the IW Pavilion hosted an engagement zone facilitating conversations between government, military, industry and academia. The purpose is to discuss how they can better work together to provide the warfighter the most advanced capabilities as quickly as possible. "The engagement zone provided an opportunity for subject matter experts from industry and multiple commands within the IW Community to interact face-to-face, learning from each other's experiences," said Patrick Fitzgerald, Naval Information Warfare Center (NIWC) Atlantic Enterprise Systems department head. "Together we discussed the current gaps and immediate needs of the Navy, as well as best practices used by industry and how to apply them to government processes and procedures." SPAWAR also had representatives from the command's Small Business Office Programs on hand to facilitate industry connections and partnerships, and to provide information on how to do business with SPAWAR. Additionally, the IW pavilion featured multiple technology demonstrations spotlighting systems and capabilities aimed at digitizing sea power such as the Collaborative Software Armory (CSA) and the Joint Response Integrated and Collaborative Decision Support Tool (JRICO). Demonstrated by NIWC Pacific, CSA is a cloud-enabled digital environment using industry DevSecOps principles that facilitates the rapid delivery of software applications to the warfighter. "CSA has been designed to make software easy to develop, easy to test, easy to authorize, and easy to deploy," said Dr. Garret Okamoto, NIWC Pacific engineer. "It takes advantage of the GovCloud and automation to make it possible for us to get software capabilities to the warfighter quickly while ensuring functionality and security. CSA is a great example of leveraging the latest digital technologies and commercial best practices to rapidly deliver capability to the fleet." Also focused on digitalization, JRICO, developed by NIWC Atlantic, is a system designed to employ smart data-tagging, big data analytics, and machine learning to ingest and exploit disparate structured Department of Defense (DoD) force management data and unstructured non-DoD data such as weather, seismic, medical, state, local, and intelligence data from various sensors and systems. Other displays ranged from swarm modeling and control technologies, position, navigation and timing technologies, military satellite and nanosatellite communication systems, advanced military mobile applications and more. Hosted by the Navy League of the United States, the Sea-Air-Space Exposition is now the largest maritime exposition in the United States and continues as an invaluable extension of the Navy League's mission of maritime policy, education and sea service support. SPAWAR identifies, develops, delivers and sustains information warfighting capabilities supporting naval, joint, coalition and other national missions. SPAWAR consists of more than 10,000 active duty military and civil service professionals located around the world and close to the fleet to keep SPAWAR at the forefront of research, engineering and acquisition to provide and sustain information warfare capabilities to the fleet. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Israeli newspaper publishes terms of US 'deal of century' on Palestine Iran Press TV Wed May 8, 2019 05:11PM An Israeli Hebrew-language daily newspaper has published the main points of US President Donald Trump's controversial proposal for peace between the Israelis and Palestinians, dubbed "the deal of the century." On Tuesday, Israel Hayom, which is close to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, published a leaked document circulated by the Israeli Foreign Ministry the details of which are as follows: A tripartite agreement will be signed between the Tel Aviv regime, the Ramallah-based Palestinian Authority (PA) as well as Hamas resistance movement, which controls the besieged and impoverished Gaza Strip, and subsequently a Palestinian state will be established that will be called "New Palestine." The "New Palestine" will be established in the occupied West Bank and Gaza, with the exception of Israeli settlements built on Palestinian lands in the West Bank. The settlement blocs in the occupied West Bank, which are illegal under the international law and UN Security Council Resolution 2334, will remain under the Israeli regime's control and will expand to reach out to other isolated settlements. Moreover, the Israeli-occupied holy city of Jerusalem al-Quds will not be divided but is to be shared by Israel and the "New Palestine," with the Israeli regime maintaining general control. The Arab population living in Jerusalem al-Quds will be citizens of New Palestine, but the Tel Aviv regime would remain in charge of the municipality and therefore the land. The newly formed Palestinian state would pay taxes and water costs to the Jerusalem al-Quds municipality. The present status of the holy sites will continue, and Jewish Israelis will not be allowed to buy Palestinian houses and vice versa. Egypt will offer the new Palestinian state land to build an airport, factories and serve the commercial and agriculture sectors. Palestinians will not be permitted to live on this land. The borders of these lands and leasing price will be determined between the two parties through the mediation of supporting countries. The United States, the European Union and the oil-rich Persian Gulf states will provide a budget of $30 billion over five years for national projects in the new Palestine. The US will pay 20% of the cost for such projects and the EU 10%, while Persian Gulf littoral states will fund 70%. Additionally, the new Palestine will not be allowed to create an army. The only weapons it will be allowed to possess will be light weapons for the police. A protection treaty would be signed between the Israeli regime and New Palestine under which it will pay Israel to defend it from foreign aggression. The cost of the payment must be determined in negotiations between the parties which would be mediated by the supporting states. Hamas will deposit all its weapons, including personal arms, with the Egyptian authorities. Hamas members, including leaders, will continue to receive salaries from the supporting countries until the government is formed. The border of the Gaza Strip, including the maritime border, will be open to the movement of goods and workers to Israel and Egypt, as the current situation of Judea and Samaria. Within one year, democratic elections will be held and a government of New Palestine will be elected and every Palestinian citizen will be able to run for election. One year after the elections and establishment of the government, Palestinians held in Israeli prisons will be released gradually over the course of three years. A highway connecting the West Bank and Gaza Strip will be established. China will pay 50% of its cost, while South Korea, Australia, Canada, the US and the EU will each pay 10%. The Jordan Valley will remain under the Israeli control. The New Palestine will be given two new routes to Jordan with crossings under its control. If Hamas and the Palestinian Authority refuse to sign the 'deal of the century', Washington will then cancel all financial support to the Palestinians and ensure that no country transfers funds to them. If PA signed the deal but Hamas or Islamic Jihad refused, the leaders of these two movements will be considered responsible. In a new Israeli military aggression against the Gaza Strip, the US will back Israel in targeting these leaders. If Israel refused to sign the deal, the US would cease all financial support to the Tel Aviv regime. Trump's so-called "peace plan" has been dismissed by Palestinian authorities ahead of its unveiling at the end of the holy fasting month of Ramadan and the formation of the new Israeli cabinet, most likely in June. Speaking in the occupied West Bank city of Ramallah on April 16, Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Shtayyeh lashed out at Trump's initiative, asserting that it was "born dead." Shtayyeh noted that negotiations with the US were useless in the wake of the country's relocation of its embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem al-Quds, which Palestinians consider the capital city of their future state. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Huge explosion, gunfire hit Afghan capital Iran Press TV Wed May 8, 2019 09:17AM A huge car bomb explosion and subsequent gunfire have hit the Afghan capital, Kabul, according to officials, with at least nine people having been injured. The explosion, which sent a cloud of smoke and dust into the sky, hit a central area in the capital on Wednesday. An Afghan Health Ministry spokesman, Wahidullah Mayar, said nine wounded people had been taken to hospital. Interior Ministry spokesman Nasrat Rahimi said the attack began with an explosion near the offices of Counterpart International, a global NGO with operations in Afghanistan. Officials had earlier wrongly identified the target as the office of the humanitarian aid agency CARE International. "Some attackers have entered the NGO's compound. The police have surrounded the area and a clearing operation is ongoing," Rahimi said. The Taliban militant group claimed responsibility for the attack. The attack occurred just over two weeks after gunmen targeted the Communications Ministry in central Kabul, killing at least seven people. That attack was claimed by Daesh. The Taliban militant group, which has announced its annual spring offensive, seeks to increase its attacks on Afghan government and foreign installations. On Sunday, the group attacked the police headquarters in Afghanistan's northern Baghlan Province, killing at least 13 people. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Venezuela to prosecute 7 lawmakers for supporting coup bid Iran Press TV Wed May 8, 2019 05:20AM Venezuela's top court has ordered the prosecution of seven lawmakers for high treason and conspiracy through the supporting of a failed coup attempt against the government of President Nicolas Maduro last week. The Supreme Court announced the ruling in a statement on Tuesday, saying it had asked Attorney General Tarek William Saab to handle a criminal investigation into the case of the seven opposition deputies. The lawmakers are suspected of "betraying the homeland" and "instigating an insurrection," among other charges, said the court. The politicians facing the charges include the former speaker of the opposition-controlled National Assembly, Henry Ramos Allup. Following the announcement, the Constituent Assembly stripped the seven lawmakers of their parliamentary immunity. "What comes now? A trial," said Constituent Assembly Speaker Diosdado Cabello, adding that three other unnamed lawmakers had been identified and would undergo the same process. The assembly has said it would suspend the immunity of any lawmaker who backed the coup attempt. Opposition figure Juan Guaido who orchestrated the coup on April 30 and who is the speaker of the National Assembly is however not among the seven who will be prosecuted. Early on the day of the coup bid, a small group of Venezuelan armed troops accompanying Guaido clashed with soldiers at an anti-government rally in the capital, Caracas, in an attempted coup. Gunfire was heard, and more than 100 people were reported wounded. The putsch quickly petered out, though, and some 25 renegade soldiers sought refuge at the Brazilian Embassy in Caracas. Meanwhile, Guaido, who has also declared himself the "interim president" of Venezuela, denounced the Supreme Court ruling later on Tuesday. The opposition figure has been backed by the United States since he launched his bid to overthrow Maduro's elected government. As part of a pressure campaign to push Maduro out of power, US Vice President Mike Pence offered incentives to the Venezuelan military personnel to entice them to defect and join the opposition. Pence also announced that sanctions would be lifted on Venezuela's former intelligence chief Manuel Cristopher Figuera, who broke ranks with Maduro last week. The US has blacklisted more than 150 Venezuelan officials and businesses tied to President Maduro. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Blast, Gunfire Heard As Taliban Militants Target Aid Group Office In Kabul By RFE/RL's Radio Free Afghanistan May 08, 2019 KABUL Taliban militants have attacked the offices of an international aid group in central Kabul, setting off a huge blast and battling Afghan security forces, officials said. Health officials said at least 15 people were wounded in the attack and transferred to the nearby Emergency Hospital. Nusrat Rahimi, a spokesperson for the Interior Ministry, told RFE/RL that the explosion occurred at 11:40 a.m. local time on May 8, as Afghanistan observes the Islamic holy month of Ramadan. The assault, claimed by the Taliban, targeted Counterpart International, which has offices near those of the Afghan attorney general, Rahimi said. Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid said the aid group was targeted because it was involved in what he described as "harmful Western activities" inside Afghanistan, without elaborating. The Interior Ministry said in a statement that 150 staff members had so far been rescued by police special forces. It said the first and second floor of the facility was cleared and the operation to clear the rest of the building -- as well as to rescue the remaining staff members -- was ongoing. The dpa news agency quoted Mirzahussain Sadid, a witness close to the area, as saying he heard three explosions and gunfire and could see smoke rising from a building. The explosion comes as the U.S. and Taliban representatives continue negotiations in Qatar aimed at bringing an end to the Afghan conflict. Last week, President Ashraf Ghani offered the Taliban a cease-fire to begin on the first day of Ramadan, which began on May 6. The militant group refused. With reporting by AP and dpa Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/large-blast-gunfire-heard -in-afghan-capital/29928554.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 Embassy: Moscow Clarified Russian Military Engineers' Goals in Venezuela for UK Sputnik News 23:59 08.05.2019(updated 00:16 09.05.2019) LONDON (Sputnik) - Russia has explained the aims its military engineers have in Venezuela and has clarified lawful reasons for sending them there to the United Kingdom, the Russian embassy in London said on Wednesday. "The legal grounds and objectives of the Russian military engineers in Venezuela have explained once again at the request of the British side. [We have] stressed that the Russian Federation was not interfering in Venezuelan internal affairs and was building cooperation on the basis of legitimate bilateral agreements", the embassy's spokesperson told reporters. Earlier in a day, the UK Foreign Office invited the Russian charge d'affaires ad interim in the United Kingdom, Ivan Volodin, in order to express London's anxiety over Russian actions in Venezuela. Volodin met with UK Director General of Economic and Global Issues Menna Rawlings and expressed disagreement and concerns over the policy of Great Britain, the United States and other Western countries regarding Venezuela. He also stated that Russian military personnel in Venezuela were represented solely by military engineers, and were deployed in the country in full accordance with international law, and on the basis of existing bilateral agreements, in the field of defence industry cooperation. The group of engineers is not numerous and its sole aim is to fulfil technical tasks. According to the spokesperson, the views of Moscow and London on the situation in Venezuela differ dramatically, and hence create "a clash of two conceptual approaches to international affairs". Moscow's approach implies basing on commonly approved norms of international law and rights for sovereignty, equality of states and non-interference in internal affairs, the spokesperson said. London, on the contrary, is relying on the concept of an "international order" that lets Western states create their own rules in international relations, the Russian embassy's representative stressed. The situation in Iraq, Libya, Syria and Ukraine are blatant examples of this Western approach, the spokesperson added. Venezuela has experienced a crisis since January when opposition leader Juan Guaido proclaimed himself to be interim president. The United States and 54 countries recognized Guaido, but Russia, China, Turkey and numerous other countries have said they recognize constitutionally-elected President Nicolas Maduro as the only legitimate head of state in Venezuela. Maduro has called Guaido a US puppet and accused the United States of orchestrating a coup in Venezuela to effect a forced change of government and claim the country's resources. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Israeli Paper Claims to Have DETAILS of US 'DEAL OF CENTURY' For Middle East Sputnik News 17:25 08.05.2019 US President Trump and his administration have been working on the so-called "deal of the century" for some time now, but few details have been leaked to the press about its contents. The White House promises that the deal will become a permanent solution to the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Israel Hayom newspaper claims to have obtained a draft of the American "deal of the century's" propositions to resolve the conflict between Israel and the Palestinian Authority that has allegedly been circulating around the Israeli Foreign Ministry. The document, leaked to the newspaper by an anonymous source, states that the agreement will be signed by three parties Israel, the Palestinian Liberation Organisation (PLO) and the Hamas movement. New State and Shared Capital According to newspaper, the deal will suggest the creation of a Palestinian state on the lands of the West Bank and Gaza Strip that will be called "New Palestine". The document doesn't specify the political structure of a new state, but indicates that democratic elections will be held within a year after its creation to form a government, with each Palestinian receiving the right to cast a vote. At the same time, Israeli settlements will remain under Tel Aviv's control with addition of several other settlements. Israel Hayom didn't specify the settlements that will be added. Both Israel and New Palestine will use Jerusalem as their capital, the newspaper indicated, citing the plan. However, the city will not be divided, but instead "shared" by the both states. Jerusalem will still be controlled by the Israeli Jerusalem Municipality, but New Palestine will handle education, paying municipal taxes in return, the purported US deal said. The status quo in handling the holy sites in the city will remain in its current state. Jerusalem's Arab population will reportedly become full-fledged citizens of New Palestine, as opposed to the existing system of permanent residency documents, which can become invalidated if a person leaves the city for a lengthy period of time. What is more, Israeli citizens won't be eligible to buy the homes of Palestinians and vice versa, the newspaper added. The Fate of the Gaza Strip According to the alleged deal, the Gaza Strip's borders with Israel and Egypt will be open for the flow of goods and citizens. What is more, a 30-metre-high "bridge" connecting the Gaza Strip and the West Bank will be built. Half of the bridge's construction will reportedly funded by China, while the other half will be equally funded by South Korea, Australia, Canada, the US, and EU. Israel Hayom indicated, citing the document, that Egypt will lease New Palestine's lands near Gaza Strip within five years of the state's creation. The last is suggested to serve as a base for the construction of an airport, factories, as well as serve for commercial and agricultural activities. At the same time, the alleged deal says Palestinians won't be able to build houses on the leased land. No Palestinian Military The alleged American deal suggests that New Palestine will not have any army with police being the only force, armed with light weaponry. The document suggests that New Palestine and Israel will ink a defence agreement with the latter ensuring protection of the former from external aggression and will be paid in return. At the same time, the alleged deal will demand all Hamas personnel to give up their weapons. Both Hamas and Israel will release their prisoners one year after the elections in New Palestine, the newspaper indicated, citing the document. Hamas members will continue to receive salaries from supporting states until their structure is replaced with a newly formed government, according to the alleged plan. The US deal will reportedly suggest dividing the planned $30 billion investments needed for national projects in New Palestine for the first five years between the US, the EU and Gulf States with the latter paying 70% of it, as they will allegedly be the main beneficiaries from the deal. What is notable, the allegedly leaked document indicates that the US will be ready to cancel all of its funding to the party, which violates the signed deal, be it Hamas or even Israel. An anonymous senior White House official has refused to confirm the authenticity of Israel Hayom's document, calling it "speculative" and "inaccurate". The so-called "deal of the century", announced by Trump, has been in the works for some time, but few details have made it into the media, with Hayom's publication being the most detailed so far. The newspaper indicates that many of the points in the document resonate with statements by Trump's Middle East advisor Jared Kushner, while at the same time it contradicts some of the previous leaks, which also haven't been confirmed by US officials. The "deal of the century" is supposed to become a solution to the conflict between Palestinians and Israelis, which began with the creation of the Jewish state in 1948. This conflict has led to several full-scale wars between Israel and its Arab neighbours. Although no wars against Israel are being waged right now, the Jewish state regularly reports being attacked by Hamas missiles coming from the territory of the Gaza Strip. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Bolton Pledges US Will Sever Ties Between Cuba and Venezuela Sputnik News 13:32 08.05.2019(updated 13:33 08.05.2019) Since the political crisis broke out in Venezuela, the US has backed self-proclaimed interim President Juan Guaido and slammed those who support the legitimate head of the country, Nicolas Maduro, including Cuba. Washington put extra-pressure on Havana in April with new restrictions. US National Security Adviser John Bolton has vowed to continue severing ties between Cuba and Venezuela, warning that Havana's hold over Venezuela "will end" in a fresh Twitter tirade. Bolton thereby echoed a recent statement by US Vice President Mike Pence, a video of whose speech he re-tweeted. Pence accused Cuba of "robbing" Venezuela of freedom and stripping it of its wealth, while supporting Maduro by sending thousands of teachers and engineers. In the video on Twitter, Pence claimed that Havana's agents control Venezuela's military and intelligence services. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has also accused Cuba of contributing to the escalation of the ongoing political crisis in Venezuela something which was dismissed by Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel as "slander" and "arrogance". President Trump told the Venezuelan American community that Maduro was being "controlled by the Cuban military and protected by a private army of Cuban soldiers". Bolton, in turn, threatened Cuba's military and intelligence services with additional sanctions over their alleged role in the political crisis in Venezuela. However, things escalated beyond verbal threats in April after the Trump administration intensified its crackdown on Cuba, along with Nicaragua and Venezuela, by announcing new sanctions. Then, Bolton announced a new cap for money transactions from Cuban families in the US to their relatives in the island nation. The US also promised to enable legal claims against foreign companies using properties that were nationalised after the 1959 revolution. The move could allow lawsuits worth tens of billions of dollars. Cuba, along with Russia, Iran, Turkey, and many other countries have refused to follow Washington's suit and recognise Juan Guaido as Venezuela's interim president. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Taliban Claims Responsibility for Kabul Blast Targeting Foreign NGOs Sputnik News 11:25 08.05.2019(updated 12:15 08.05.2019) Afghanistan's capital Kabul has seen intensified security since Taliban militants declared their annual spring offensive pledging to target Afghan government and foreign installations. A powerful explosion has occurred in the centre of the Afghan capital of Kabul, local media reported Wednesday. The blast took place in the Shahr-e-Naw area of the city, as confirmed to AFP by Ferdaws Framurz, a spokesman for the city's police force. Meanwhile, Interior Ministry spokesman Nasrat Rahimi has said the explosion took place near the offices of CARE International, an NGO with operations in Afghanistan. "We don't know the nature of the explosion yet but small arms firing has also been heard in the area", Rahimi added. The nation's Health Ministry has reported that at least 12 people sustained injuries in the Kabul blast. "At least 12 wounded have been taken to hospitals following the blast in Kabul", spokesman for the Ministry of Public Health Wahidullah Mayar said. The Taliban has claimed responsibility for the attack, according to the group's spokesman. Afghanistan is suffering from an unstable political, social and security situation due to the activity of the Taliban and Islamic State terrorist group (banned in Russia). The Afghan National Defence and Security Forces are currently conducting joint offensive operations to combat terrorism across the country with support from an international coalition. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Pence: US Removes All Sanctions on Venezuela Military Official Who Joined Guaido Sputnik News 02:53 08.05.2019 WASHINGTON (Sputnik) - The United States has lifted all sanctions on Venezuela's former intelligence service chief Gen. Manuel Cristopher Figuera after he broke ranks with President Nicolas Maduro last week to support opposition leader Juan Guaido, US Vice President Mike Pence said in a speech. "In recognition of his recent actions in support of democracy and the rule of law, I'm announcing today that the United States of American is removing all sanctions on General Manuel Cristopher Figuera effective immediately", Pence told the Washington Conference on the Americas held at the State Department on Tuesday. The US Treasury Department's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) designated Figuera on 15 February under the heading current or former official in the Maduro government. The Treasury Department said in a statement on Tuesday that the decision to remove all of Figuera's sanctions demonstrates Washington's intent to bring a positive change of behavior through sanctions. Moreover, the US will hold all 25 Venezuelan Supreme Court magistrates accountable if they do not uphold the rule of law in the country, Pence said. "It is time for the Supreme Court in Venezuela to return to its founding purpose", Pence said on Tuesday. "If the Supreme Court of Venezuela does not return to its constitutional mandate to uphold the rule of law, the United States of America will hold all 25 of its magistrates accountable for their actions". Pence said the Venezuelan Supreme Court has undermined its constitutional mandate and become a political tool. Meanwhile, Pompeo has acknowledged that political conditions remained unclear in Venezuela and that President Nicolas Maduro retained the loyalty of key figures in the government despite the calls of US-backed opposition leader Juan Guaido for an uprising to topple him. Last week, Guaido made another attempt to depose of Maduro, staging a demonstration in front of La Carlota military base in Caracas. Guaido called on the people of Venezuela and the army to take to the streets to complete the operation to overthrow Venezuela's legitimate president. In response, Maduro said that the commanders of all regions and zones of integral defence had reiterated their full loyalty to the authorities of the country. Similarly, Venezuelan Defence Minister Vladimir Padrino said Venezuela's armed forces remained loyal to Maduro and the country's constitution. Large-scale protests against Maduro began in Venezuela on 21 January soon after he was sworn in for a new term. Guaido then proclaimed himself to be an interim president of Venezuela. A number of Western countries, including the United States, backed his claim. Maduro has accused the United States of trying to orchestrate a coup in order to install Guaido as its puppet. Russia, China, Bolivia, Turkey and numerous other countries have said they recognize constitutionally-elected Maduro as the only legitimate president of Venezuela. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Determination Under the Jerusalem Embassy Act Press Statement Michael R. Pompeo Secretary of State Washington, DC May 8, 2019 On May 14, 2018, the U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem officially opened for business. Now, as we near the first anniversary of that momentous event, I am pleased to report that I have provided my determination to Congress that the relevant elements of the Jerusalem Embassy Act of 1995 have been addressed. Accordingly, no further Presidential waiver of the funding restriction under the Act is necessary. The Jerusalem Embassy Act called on the Department of State to open in Jerusalem not just the offices of the U.S. diplomatic mission to Israel, but also a chief of mission residence for our Ambassador to Israel. In March 2019, in consultation with the Government of Israel, we established a chief of mission residence in Jerusalem. I have therefore determined that the U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem, including the chief of mission residence, is officially open, consistent with the Act. Twenty-three years ago, Congress overwhelmingly voted in support of moving the U.S. embassy to Jerusalem. Successive administrations refused to move the embassy, and instead exercised Presidential waivers to avoid the Act's restrictions. On December 6, 2017, the President boldly decided to recognize Jerusalem as Israel's capital and instructed the Department of State to relocate the U.S. embassy to Jerusalem. We proudly continue to implement that decision today. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Taliban Attack on US-Funded Relief Group in Afghanistan Kills 5 By Ayaz Gul May 08, 2019 Officials in Afghanistan say a Taliban car bomb-and-gun attack against a U.S.-funded international relief organization Wednesday killed at least five people, including a police guard, and wounded 24 others. Interior Ministry spokesman Nasrat Rahimi said insurgents targeted the nonprofit group Counterpart International, which is a partner of the U.S. Agency for International Development, in the upscale Shahri Naw area of the capital. The Afghan forces killed all five assailants in a gunfight that lasted nearly six hours. Rahimi would not say whether staff members of the aid group were among the casualties. Ann Hudock, president and chief executive of Counterpart International, told VOA's Afghan service Wednesday, "There is still a lot of information that we don't know, including whether we were specifically targeted. But we do know there was a bomb blast and that our building was attacked by militants." She said her staff was all accounted for and safe. "What I can say is that the senseless violence that happened today has no place in a civilized world. It has nothing to do with Islam. For this to happen in Ramadan makes it particularly egregious," she said. Rahimi said police and military commandos quickly surrounded the building and fought the assailants, rescuing close to 200 people during the siege. The Taliban claimed responsibility for the attack. The insurgent raid began just before noon with a car bomb explosion at the entrance gate before several gunmen stormed the office building, said Rahimi. The U.S.-funded aid organization has been operating in Afghanistan since 2005 on civic engagement projects, according to its website. "In all our programs, we bring marginalized people into civic life, supporting their ability to influence decisions that affect their lives," Counterpart said in its mission statement on its website. Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid accused the aid group of conducting "harmful" activities inside Afghanistan. "Counterpart implemented a dangerous program termed 'Angel' aimed at promoting open intermixing between men and women," Mujahid alleged in a statement sent to reporters. He accused the aid group of employing "40-50 foreign advisers" working in various aspects of brutality, oppression, terror, anti-Islamic ideology and promotion of Western culture. U.S. Ambassador to Afghanistan John Bass strongly condemned the Taliban attack. "The targeted organization helps local communities, trains journalists and supports the Afghan people. For this, it is the target of senseless violence. Thanks to Afghan Security Forces for rapid response," Bass said. The U.N. Assistance Mission in Afghanistan also denounced as deplorable the "deliberate targeting of the civilian aid organization" by the insurgents. The Taliban continue to carry out deadly attacks, despite cease-fire appeals by Afghan President Ashraf Ghani and the United States, during the Muslim fasting month of Ramadan, which began Monday. The insurgent group has justified its violent campaign, saying under Islamic traditions, "the blessed month of Ramadan is prime opportunity for jihad [holy war]." The latest violence came as a sixth round of peace talks between U.S. and Taliban negotiators is under way in Doha, Qatar, to try to end the conflict in Afghanistan. The latest round of discussions began a week ago, but neither side has reported significant progress. Samiullah Jalalzai of VOA's Afghan service contributed to this report. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address China, Wary of US, Pushes to Accelerate Accident Prevention Deal in Disputed Sea By Ralph Jennings May 08, 2019 China and Southeast Asian countries that dispute sovereignty over a strategic Asian sea aim to speed up talks toward a code of conduct that would lower the risk of accidents and help keep the U.S. government out of the fray. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said his country and a bloc of Southeast Asian states will "speed up" talks on a code of conduct in the South China Sea, Beijing's state-run China Daily reported March 8. Wang told reporters days later the talks were "gathering pace under a clear road map." That goal should mean a 2020 signing date -- ahead of an earlier Chinese forecast of 2021 -- for the agreement aimed at guiding ships away from mishaps in the vast, crowded South China Sea, some analysts believe. China resents the U.S. Navy for passing ships through the sea, where Beijing has a military and technological advantage over the four Southeast Asian countries that also claim parts of it. An early signing of the code would show Washington that Beijing can work with its neighbors without U.S. influence, scholars say. "If there's no United States, the Chinese won't say that the code of conduct is a must-have document," said Yun Sun, East Asia Program senior associate with the Stimson Center think tank in Washington, D.C. "With a code of conduct, the Chinese could tell the Americans that 'we already have a deal, and there's no reason for you to get involved and whatever we do is between me, China, and them, Southeast Asian countries,'" she said. Brunei, China, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan and Vietnam claim all or parts of the 3.5 million-square-kilometer sea that's prized for fisheries, shipping lanes and fossil fuel reserves. China has alarmed the others since 2010 by building artificial islands for military installations. Washington, which counts some of the other states as allies, stepped up naval patrols of the sea in 2017 to monitor Chinese activity there. Laggard increases speed China and the 10-country Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) have talked off and on about a code of conduct for the sea since ASEAN endorsed the idea in 1996. Some analysts believe China had once stalled the process but came around in 2016 after losing a world court arbitration over the legal basis for its claim to about 90 percent of the sea. As tough Sino-ASEAN discussions began after a 2017 commitment to reach a deal, Chinese Premier Li Keqiang anticipated last year the code would take three years to finish. Next year is likely for a deal on the code of conduct because China hopes to work with Vietnam, the 2020 chair of ASEAN, said Termsak Chalermpalanupap, fellow with the ISEAS Yusof Ishak Institute in Singapore. China and ASEAN are focusing this year on trade liberalization, he said. "I think the Chinese side seems to indicate they now want to make it quicker," he said. "I think it may be next year. Next year will be the turn of Vietnam chairing ASEAN. I think China may have strategic reasons to work with Vietnam." Vietnam is the most outspoken Southeast Asian country with claims to the sea. Although accidents are rare in the sea today, Vietnamese and Chinese vessels rammed one another over a Chinese oil rig in 2014. They also engaged in deadly clashes in 1974 and 1988. The code of conduct is due to set out guidelines for stopping such incidents in the sea that supports one-third of the world's marine shipping traffic and a fishing industry that employs an estimated 3.7 million people. Foiling US naval movements Under President Donald Trump, the U.S. Navy has passed ships through the South China Sea at least 10 times. China resents those movements, because the militarily stronger U.S. government -- an old Cold War foe -- makes no claim to the sea. Progress toward the code of conduct will improve spirits at future Sino-ASEAN joint military exercises, said Alexander Huang, strategic studies professor at Tamkang University in Taiwan. Next month, the Pentagon will unveil a new Indo Pacific military strategy before defense chiefs around the Asia Pacific at the Shangri-La Dialogue later this month, according to the USNI News website. The strategy is seen as a way to monitor Chinese maritime expansion. "Probably China wanted to have some input before the U.S. pronouncement," Huang said. U.S. officials have historic alliances with Taiwan the Philippines plus a budding relationship with its old war foe Vietnam. Those countries, all militarily weaker than China, look to Washington to cap Chinese influence. Tough talks Acceleration of talks toward a code of conduct won't be easy, analysts have warned. They expect that sovereignty-conscious Beijing will oppose defining the scope of the sea, resist any binding agreement and block provisions for enforcement that would limit Chinese maritime activities. ASEAN is expected to ask for those details during talks. ASEAN finds some of the Chinese demands are "impossible," Sun said. China has advocated before a speedier deal to show goodwill in Southeast Asia, yet without results, cautioned Oh Ei Sun, senior fellow with the Singapore Institute of International Affairs. "From time to time they will put out statements like that," he said. "The negotiations simply did not conclude." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Cameroon: Hundreds of Militants, Terrorists Surrender By Moki Edwin Kindzeka May 08, 2019 Authorities in Cameroon say 165 Anglophone separatists and Boko Haram terrorists have voluntarily surrendered in the past two months, while hundreds of other separatists have stopped fighting. Cameroon's military and groups loyal to the government have been been circulating a video for the past week of an alleged former separatist fighter named Yannick Kawa. The video, divided into two parts, first shows Kawa saying he would never stop commanding his fighters to crush the military. However, the second part shows Kawa telling a crowd that a stranger online convinced him to surrender to the military's Rapid Intervention Battalion, the BIR. "I was in touch with one man online, he started encouraging me," Kawa said in the video. "Then I decided to surrender myself to the BIR. From that day up 'til today, I am free." Cameroon's National Committee on Disarmament, Demobilization, and Reintegration (NCDDR) said 56 of the militants who surrendered were from Cameroon's two English-speaking regions, while 109 were from Mora on the border with Nigeria. "The numbers may seem small, but I think we are doing a lot because in addition to these numbers we have, we have hundreds of them who have laid down their arms," NCDDR coordinator Francis Fai Yengo said. Yengo said many who surrendered were in a location he could not disclose for security reasons. Some skeptical Skeptics are raising doubts about the government's evidence. Josue Medoung of rights group Cameroon Watch says it is difficult to believe that those who surrendered are separatists and terrorists. He says the rebels and terrorists are equipped with weapons of war, while the arms authorities presented as allegedly turned over by militants were locally made and used by common criminals. Armed gangs and highway robbers are also stealing, killing, abducting and extorting money from civilians, Medoung said, adding that those who are handing over their weapons may be armed gang members who fear being killed by the military, or even separatist fighters. Medoung says the intensity of the conflict reported in the English-speaking regions within the past two months shows that fighting is still raging. 'Olive branch of peace' NCDDR coordinator for Cameroon's Northwest, Sixtus Gabsa, says many militants are still not convinced that the committee wants to help. "The major problem we have is the problem of confidence building," Gabsa said. "Most of the children in the bushes, even the stake holders, are saying that we are playing tricks to bring the children out and kill them. No. The head of state [president] has given an olive branch of peace. Nothing is going to happen to them." Cameroon's president, Paul Biya, created the committee last year to manage the disarming and reintegration of militants who surrendered. Authorities have promised that Anglophone rebels and Boko Haram terrorists who disarm will get professional job training in rehabilitation centers across Cameroon. However, the rehabilitation centers have been slow to take off, as the rebels don't trust authorities and some centers have yet to be built. Cameroon says at least 1,000 people have died in the three-year separatist conflict, while Boko Haram terrorists have killed more than 1,500 people since its insurgency began nine years ago. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Guaido Claims 'Vice President' of Opposition-Controlled Congress Detained Sputnik News 02:21 09.05.2019(updated 03:06 09.05.2019) The Venezuelan Constituent National Assembly has removed parliamentary immunity from seven opposition lawmakers who supposedly took part in the recent failed coup in the country. Among those who lost their immunity was Edgar Jose Zambrano, who serves as a National Assembly deputy. Self-proclaimed president of Venezuela, Juan Guaido, turned to Twitter, claiming that the "vice president" of the opposition-controlled National Assembly had been detained by authorities from President Nicolas Maduro's government. Edgar Zambrano, the assembly "vice president", said on Twitter that agents from the SEBIN intelligence agency had surprised him and, after refusing to let him out of his vehicle, were using a tow truck to take him to the SEBIN's Caracas headquarters, Reuters reported. So far, the information regarding the detention was not confirmed by the official representatives of the legitimate Venezuelan president Maduro. Edgar Jose Zambrano, alongside with Luis Florido, Henry Ramos Allup, Richard Blanco, Marianela Lopez, Simon Calzadilla and Americo de Grazia lost their immunity on Wednesday following the corresponding decision made by the Venezuelan Constituent National Assembly. The prosecution charges them with high treason, public conspiring to violate the law, inciting civil uprising, power usurpation and other crimes. Venezuela has been rocked by unrest since January when Guaido proclaimed himself the country's interim president and was recognized by the United States and dozens of other nations. Maduro, recognized by China and Russia among numerous other countries, has accused the United States of seeking to overthrow his government and install Guaido in a bid to get hold of Venezuela's natural resources. Guaido made a fresh attempt to depose Maduro on April 30, staging a demonstration in front of La Carlota military base in Caracas. However, the attempt has "failed completely," as the Venezuelan government has put it. The office of the Venezuelan prosecutor general has requested 18 arrest warrants to be issued in connection with the coup attempt. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Maduro Expels Dozens of Officers From Venezuela Army After Failed Coup - Reports Sputnik News 01:35 09.05.2019 MEXICO CITY (Sputnik) Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro signed a decree either reducing in rank or expelling dozens of officers, including high-ranking ones, from the country's armed forces due to their involvement in a recent coup attempt, local media reported. According to Gaceta Oficial cited by local radio, these measures affected the former head of the Bolivarian intelligence service SEBIN, Gen. Manuel Figuera, five lieutenant colonels, four majors, four captains, six lieutenants and 35 sergeants. Lt. Col. Ilich Sanchez of the Venezuelan National Guard, who in recent months led the security services of the opposition-controlled National Assembly, is among those expelled. Large-scale protests against Maduro began in Venezuela on 21 January soon after he was sworn in for a new term. Guaido proclaimed himself an interim leader of the country. A number of Western countries, including the United States, backed his claim. Maduro, in turn, has accused the United States of trying to orchestrate a coup in order to install Guaido as its puppet. Russia, China, and a number of other countries have voiced their support for Maduro as the only legitimate president of Venezuela. On 30 April, Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Guaido urged Venezuelan civilians and servicemen to take to the streets to help depose constitutionally-elected President Nicolas Maduro. In response, Maduro said that the commanders of all regions and zones of integral defence had reiterated their full loyalty to the people, constitution and homeland. The coup attempt turned violent and resulted in some 240 people being injured, according to the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Texas Man Pleads Guilty to Conspiring to Provide Material Support to a Foreign Terrorist Organization FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Wednesday, May 8, 2019 A Fort Worth man today pleaded guilty to a federal terrorism charge, announced Assistant Attorney General for National Security John C. Demers and U.S. Attorney Erin Nealy Cox for the Northern District of Texas. Michael Kyle Sewell, 18, who was arrested in February, formally pleaded guilty to conspiracy to provide material support to Lashkar-e-Taiba, a Pakistani-based foreign terrorist organization also known as LeT. According to court documents, Sewell admitted to encouraging an individual, identified in court documents only as coconspirator 1, to join LeT. Sewell then provided the coconspirator, who he spoke to on social media, with contact information for an individual he believed could facilitate the coconspirator's travel to Pakistan to join LeT. Unbeknownst to Sewell and the coconspirator, the facilitator was an undercover FBI agent. Sewell and the coconspirator discussed what the coconspirator should say to the undercover agent who posed as the facilitator, in order to gain the facilitator's trust and be permitted to join LeT. Sewell also contacted the facilitator to vouch for the coconspirator's authenticity. Sewell now faces up to 20 years in federal prison and a fine of up to $250,000. He will be sentenced on Aug. 12, 2019 in Fort Worth. The Federal Bureau of Investigation and its Joint Terrorism Task Force members, including the Arlington Police Department, the Fort Worth Police Department, the Tarrant County Sheriff's Office, the Naval Criminal Investigation Service, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Texas Department of Public Safety conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jay Weimer prosecuted the case with the assistance of Trial Attorney Bridget Behling of the National Security Division's Counterterrorism Section. Topic(s): Counterterrorism Component(s): National Security Division (NSD) USAO - Texas, Northern Press Release Number: 19-479 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address US Struggles to Staff Cyber Defene 'Red Teams' - Shanahan Sputnik News 20:36 08.05.2019(updated 20:37 08.05.2019) WASHINGTON (Sputnik) - The US military is having difficulty staffing so-called red teams, which conduct fake cyberattacks to expose vulnerabilities, because of competition from the private tech industry, acting Defence Secretary Patrick Shanahan told Congress. "Our biggest challenge with the red teams is keeping the people", Shanahan said. "They are so talented and there is such high demand that we get out-recruited, so anything we can do to generate capacity is extremely critical". About a dozen Department of Defence red teams parachute into different installations throughout the country and conduct these attacks so we can assess vulnerabilities, Shanahan said. The US defence chief added that installations augment red team efforts by identifying and targeting the most critical risks. Earlier in February, US National Intelligence Director Dan Coats stated that China and Russia pose the biggest cyber threats to the United States. Coats also said Russia had developed the capabilities to shut down US power and energy companies. The United States ranked fifth out of 60 nations listed in its effective cyber security, according to the Global Cyber Security Index published in February. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Even in Defeat, Islamic State's Foreign Fighters Expanding By Jeff Seldin May 08, 2019 It was March 2018, approximately five months after U.S.-backed forces had declared victory in the battle for the Islamic State terror group's Syrian capital of Raqqa. And Afghan officials had reason to worry. Intelligence suggested the fallout from that victory had been making its way, slowly but surely, to their country. "There has been a growth in the number of the foreign fighters in the country," then-Afghan national security adviser Mohammad Hanif Atmar said during a visit to Washington. "We're talking about hundreds of them coming from the Middle East through Pakistan." The warning did not go unnoticed. Soon, the concern was being shared by a growing number of countries. IS fighters were coming in increasing numbers, a United Nations report warned in August, adding that those making the journey were "bringing with them skills in handling weaponry and improvised explosive devices, and knowledge of military tactics." "Central Asian fighters tend to feel most comfortable relocating among Afghans of Uzbek and Tajik ethnicity," the U.N. report said. The trend has not slowed. A U.N. report issued in January cited intelligence from one member state that "30% of foreign terrorist fighters have left the Syrian Arab Republic and Iraq for various countries, usually their countries of origin." Such numbers are not insignificant. Despite claims by U.S. and coalition officials that as many as 70,000 IS fighters were killed in the effort to destroy the caliphate, the foreign fighter presence remained strong. "We don't know how many have died. But we can assume that at least 50% survive," Edmund Fitton-Brown, coordinator of the United Nations analytical support and sanctions monitoring team for IS, al-Qaida and the Taliban, told the CTC Sentinel, in an interview published in April. "My personal guess is more. I think probably one would be looking at more like a one-third attrition rate or something of the sort," Fitton-Brown added. It is a concern that has been grabbing the attention of top U.S. officials, as well, long before IS's self-declared caliphate entered its final death throes. "Even if the numbers are small, they always have a disproportionate effect," Lt. Gen. Michael Nagata, director of strategic operational planning at the National Counterterrorism Center, told VOA in 2017. "They bring leadership. They bring skill. They bring experience. And perhaps most importantly, they are totally committed," Nagata said. More recently, senior U.S. officials have been shifting their attention to where IS foreign fighters are likely to make the biggest impact. "In terms of the next phase of the mission, it is continuing to remain vigilant about the ongoing threat of ISIS," a senior U.S. administration official said this past December, using an acronym for the terror group, and pointing to places such as Afghanistan, Libya and Egypt's Sinai Peninsula, long seen as potential landing spots for surviving foreign fighters. Libya Perhaps the biggest concern focuses on Libya, where the coastal city of Sirte was at one time seen as IS's third capital. Once a base of operations for as many as 6,000 fighters, some of them sent by IS leadership in Iraq and Syria, the IS presence in Libya has dwindled, with some analysts estimating fewer than 1,000 fighters remain.Many warn, however, the failed state has been a perfect incubator for IS foreign fighters who likely make up more than 80% of the total force. "ISIS in Libya is back," said Jason Pack, founder of Eye on ISIS in Libya, a nonprofit research organization. "They retreated, regrouped and then reengaged." Pack warned the recent spike in fighting, a result of a military offensive by Libyan strongman Gen. Khalifa Haftar, may make Libya an even more attractive destination for IS fighters. "If I was a jihadi and I saw that he was winning, I'd very much want to be there," Pack said. "Whereas they are not going to defeat [Syrian President Bashar al-] Assad, they may participate in the defeat of Haftar." In early April, IS launched an attack against Haftar's forces in southwestern Libya, claiming six soldiers were killed. IS in Libya may also be finding ways to benefit from the country's history as a transit and resupply point for jihadis active in other conflicts. "It's definitely likely that Libya is being used as a place to move people to try and get to other war zones or rest from battles in places like Mali, especially in the southern part of the country," said Aaron Zelin, a fellow with The Washington Institute for Near East Policy and founder of the Jihadology website. Sinai In neighboring Egypt, IS has established a solid foothold in the Sinai Peninsula, with its branch there long viewed as the country's most dangerous terror group. Boasting an estimated 500 to 750 fighters, it has carried out repeated attacks against Egyptian security forces in the Sinai Peninsula and the Nile Valley. In October 2015, a bomb planted by IS Sinai brought down a Russian airliner, killing all 244 people on board. "It's one of those classic ungoverned territories, and the Egyptians are really struggling to combat the insurgency there," said Colin Clarke, a senior research fellow at The Soufan Center."Some of the tribes in and around the Sinai are a bit more transactional and so less willing to drop a dime on people that may be up to nefarious things." West Africa Islamic State's West African province was established in May 2015, when the then-leader of Nigeria's Boko Haram terror group, Abubakar Shekau, abandoned ties to al-Qaida and pledged allegiance to IS. Since then, the group has split in two, with the larger faction keeping the IS name. "They're the one that we have the most concern about," Gen. Thomas Walhauser, the outgoing head of U.S. Africa Command, told lawmakers earlier this year. "They have been very aggressive," he said. "They now have taken large pieces of real estate in northern Nigeria." Adding to the concern, U.S. officials believe the group has been growing, boasting between 3,000 and 4,000 fighters. It also appears to have started a recruiting campaign specifically to attract foreign fighters. According to SITE Intelligence, the IS-aligned Muntasir Media group began publishing posters online this month. "Each day that goes by, your brothers in Wilayat West Africa become stronger," one of the posters read, in English. "Stand up and join the fight with your brothers in Nigeria." Another, showing a photo of an armed gunman, read, "O Crusaders, Today in Mali and Nigeria. Tomorrow in al-Andalus [Spain]. Without Black Flage [sic] Will Be No Security." Philippines In May 2017, militant Islamists who had pledged themselves to IS attacked Marawi, a city on the southern Philippine island of Mindanao, sparking a five-month battle with the Philippine military for control. Philippine officials said the attackers, mainly local groups that had flocked to the IS banner, got help from the outside, and boasted foreign fighters from Syria, Saudi Arabia, Yemen, Kuwait, Chechnya, Pakistan, Indonesia and Malaysia. According to U.S. defense officials, by the time the battle for Marawi had ended, more than 1,000 fighters had died. Officials also thought that ties between IS-Philippines and IS in Syria had been severed following the death of IS-P's leader, Isnilon Hapilon, in October 2017. Since then, U.S. officials estimate IS-Philippines has been able to rebuild some of its strength up to about 500 fighters though independent analysts say the number is likely closer to 750. As of December 2018, U.S. Indo-Pacific Command told a U.S. inspector general report that "there were approximately 40 foreign fighters, mostly from Malaysia and Indonesia, in the Philippines," adding, "there was no evidence of either an influx or exodus of foreign fighters during the quarter." This is the second in a series looking at the threat of IS foreign fighters. Next up, a look at the threat from the terror group's growing foreign fighter network. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Trump to Designate Brazil as Major Non-NATO Ally - White House Sputnik News 23:17 08.05.2019(updated 00:26 09.05.2019) US President Donald Trump said in a statement issued by the White House on Wednesday that the decision to recognize Brazil as a major non-NATO ally comes due to "Brazil's recent commitments to increase defense cooperation with the United States". "I am making this designation in recognition of the Government of Brazil's recent commitments to increase defense cooperation with the United States, and in recognition of our own national interest in deepening our defense coordination with Brazil", Trump said in his message to Congress. During a meeting with his Brazilian counterpart, Jair Bolsonaro, at the White House in March, Trump said that he was considering Brazil's membership in NATO. However, article 10 of The North Atlantic Treaty, signed in Washington in April 1949, stipulates that the alliance's members may only invite European states to accede to the treaty. NATO is currently comprised of 29 member states. According to the North Atlantic Treaty, NATO membership is open to "any other European state in a position to further the principles of this Treaty and to contribute to the security of the North Atlantic area". US National Security Adviser John Bolton has confirmed Brazil's designation and has said that the bilateral cooperation would focus on Venezuela, Iran, and China. Brazil's recognition as a major non-NATO ally comes also amid the ongoing political crisis in neighboring Venezuela. However, Brazilian Defence Minister Fernando Azevedo de Silva told reporters earlier in March that Brazil was not considering military intervention in Venezuela. "That's not a hypothesis we're considering. Brazil is looking forward to a peaceful and swift solution to the crisis in Venezuela". Azevedo said. Large-scale protests against Nicolas Maduro sparked in Venezuela on 21 January soon after he was sworn in for a new term. Juan Guaido proclaimed himself an interim leader of the country. A number of Western countries, including the United States, backed his claim. Maduro, in turn, has accused the United States of trying to orchestrate a coup in order to install Guaido as its puppet. Russia, China, and a number of other countries have voiced their support for constitutionally-elected Maduro as the only legitimate president of Venezuela. Amid the events, which Caracas has repeatedly described as a failed coup attempt, Bolton reiterated that "all options are on the table" with regard to Venezuela, adding that Washington hopes to see a peaceful transfer of power. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address China ready for prolonged US trade war Global Times By Chen Qingqing and Wang Cong Source:Global Times Published: 2019/5/8 23:13:40 Nation's resilience, policy incentives to help weather rift After US officials threatened to escalate its trade war with China, rattling global financial markets and angering some US businesses, there is a distinctive, palpable level of calmness in China. Many in the foreign press gushed about how calm China was over the latest threats from US officials. The US will raise tariffs from 10 percent to 25 percent on $200 billion worth of Chinese imports effective Friday, according to a notice posted on the Federal Register's website on Wednesday. "China deeply regrets the announcement. If the US goes ahead with these tariff hikes, the Chinese side will have to take necessary countermeasures," China's Ministry of Commerce said in a statement issued late Wednesday. But interviews with Chinese businesses and analysts on Wednesday showed that behind the calmness is overwhelming confidence in the business world and other sectors in the country that China is prepared to fight a protracted trade battle with the US, if necessary, and that China is better positioned than the US to cope with the consequences. In Dongguan, a major manufacturing hub in South China's Guangdong Province, which is also considered the "world's factory," manufacturers and exporters said that after a year of dealing with the tariffs war, they are fully prepared for a further escalation. At the invitation of the US side, Vice Premier Liu He will travel to Washington from Thursday to Friday, kicking off the 11th round of trade negotiations with his US counterparts, Geng Shuang, spokesperson of Chinese Foreign Ministry, told a press briefing on Wednesday. Overwhelming confidence "Though the pressure exists, I'm confident in the business outlook," CH Kwok, general manager of Dongguan LC Technology Co which exports millions of dollars worth of toys and electronics a year to the US for companies such as Kid Galaxy and Mattel, told the Global Times on Wednesday. Kwok argued that if the US continues to increase tariffs on Chinese products, US importers and retailers, and eventually consumers, will bear the brunt because they will not be able to find alternative sources to import certain products without paying higher prices, at least in the short term. "It will be difficult for US firms to find replacements, because a mature supply chain cannot be fostered overnight," he said, noting that though some factories have shifted their production lines to countries such as Bangladesh and Vietnam, they still rely on China for certain materials, which then would raise costs. Underscoring the US market's heavy reliance on Chinese products, the latest Chinese customs data showed on Wednesday that despite facing heavy duties, Chinese exports to the US declined only 4.8 percent year-on-year in yuan terms in the first four months of the year, compared to a 26.8 percent drop in imports from the US. China's trade surplus with the US, one of the main grievances of the US administration against China, expanded 10.5 percent to 570.2 billion yuan ($84.17 billion) during the period, according to data from the General Administration of Customs. Contrary to what US officials claimed, US consumers will be the ones chipping in for the additional costs not Chinese factories. "American consumers are already beginning to see higher prices on certain products, and the impact will only worsen if a deal is not reached and tariffs increase even further," Jonathan Gold, vice president of supply chain and customs policy of National Retail Federation of the US, told the Global Times in an earlier interview via e-mail. If the US proceeds with the additional $325 billion in goods, that means consumer products and daily necessities such as clothing, toys, shoes, furniture and electronics could be subject to more tariffs, CNBC reported on Tuesday. Even if the US administration is willing to further increase tariffs at a cost to its consumers, Chinese companies are also prepared to deal with that. Jason Ye, general manager of Dongguan Yimei Houseware Co, said that as his company sees fewer orders from the US, his company and other businesses in the region were exploring other markets like Europe. "If the disputes further escalate, we'll consider giving up the US market due to thinner profits," Ye said, noting that exports to the US only account for 10 percent of his company's total orders, which means there will be little impact on the overall business. Stronger hand The calmness in China also stood in stark contrast to the fallout of the threats in the US, where farmers and business groups warned of dire consequences and urged the US government to immediately resolve the issue. Describing the tariffs as the "worst case" for US soybean growers, Davie Stephens, president of the American Soybean Association, said in a statement Tuesday, "We need a positive resolution of this ongoing tariffs dispute, not further escalation of tensions." In a strange turn of events, even as US business groups voice strong opposition, US Senate minority leader Chuck Schumer, who has opposed US President Donald Trump on almost all issues, offered support, urging Trump to "hang tough on China." "Compared to the US, China has a more united stance, as Washington officials could not overcome their differences and missed the best negotiation opportunities," said Cao Heping, a professor of economics at Peking University. He said that since no one has an edge in terms of size of the economy, it's about which side has more diversified and effective policies to stave off external pressure and uncertainties. "China would have the upper hand," he said, pointing to unity and confidence in Chinese society to take on the US after a year of ups and downs, the Chinese economy's resilience and mature policies to boost growth. Following a slew of measures, from massive stimulus packages to tax and fee cuts, the Chinese economy saw a better-than-expected performance so far this year, with improvements in consumption and investment, two of the main growth drivers. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address China, US to advance trade talks People's Daily Online (China Daily) 07:12, May 08, 2019 Although the United States threatened on Sunday to hike tariffs on Chinese goods beginning on Friday, Beijing maintained a measured approach when it responded to the latest threat stemming from the ongoing Sino-US trade consultations. Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang said on Tuesday that China would not sidestep differences and is sincere about continuing the trade consultations. He said at a daily news conference that the negotiations are a process of discussion, and it is normal for two sides to have differences. Mutual respect and mutual benefit is the precondition and basis to reach an agreement, he said, adding that raising additional tariffs cannot resolve any problems. At the invitation of US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer and US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin, Vice-Premier Liu He will visit the US on Thursday and Friday for the 11th round of trade talks, the Ministry of Commerce said in a statement on Tuesday afternoon. Liu is also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chief of the Chinese side of the China-US comprehensive economic dialogue. Chen Wenling, chief economist of the China Center for International Economic Exchanges, said cooperation is the best choice for China and the US. If the two countries cooperate with each other, the world can prosper; otherwise, the global economy will slow down, Chen said at a conference in Beijing. She noted that China and the US combined account for 40 percent of the world's total GDP, nearly 40 percent of total global manufacturing output, and around 25 percent of the world's total trade volume. Foreign direct investment in China from non-financial sectors reached $35.8 billion in the first three months of this year, up 3.7 percent year-on-year, while FDI from the US to China increased 71.3 percent from same period a year earlier, according to the Ministry of Commerce. Trade between China and the US amounted to 815.86 billion yuan ($121.7 billion) in the first quarter of this year. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address PLA conducts live-fire exercise north of Taiwan Straits People's Daily Online (Global Times) 15:12, May 08, 2019 The ongoing live-fire exercise of the People's Liberation Army (PLA) north of the Taiwan Straits is an annual arrangement to show China's ability to uphold its national sovereignty and territorial integrity, experts said. The military exercise is being conducted in waters off East China's Zhejiang Province, north of Taipei in Taiwan, from 6 am May 5 to 6 pm May 10, according to yhnews.zjol.com.cn, a Zhejiang-based news site, on Monday. Fishing boats are forbidden to enter the 12 fishing zones during the exercise, said the notice, which was issued by the Taizhou government. The drill is an annual military exercise, which is coordinated with the joint China-Russia naval exercise in the north and China-Thailand naval training in the south, Wu Jian, a Shanghai-based military expert, told the Global Times on Monday. A six-day Joint Sea-2019 naval exercise participated by the Chinese and Russian navies ended on Saturday in East China's Shandong Province, and naval forces from China and Thailand are conducting a joint exercise at a military port in South China's Guangdong Province scheduled to end on Thursday. In April, the PLA conducted encirclement drills of vessels, bombers and reconnaissance aircraft from its Eastern Theater Command around the island of Taiwan. "The exercise was held amid the passage of US ships through the Taiwan Straits recently, but it was not launched to provoke any third party. Normally from March to May each year, China will conduct live-fire military exercises," said Wu. Two US ships, the USS William P. Lawrence and USS Stethem, Arleigh Burke-class destroyers, passed through the Taiwan Straits on April 28, making it the fourth time that the US has sent warships through the Taiwan Straits in the past five months. "The exercise, however, is not aimed at showing China's full ability to protect its national sovereignty, territorial integrity and development interests," Wu said. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Pompeo Makes Unexpected Trip To Iraq, Warns Of 'Escalating' Iranian Activity By RFE/RL May 08, 2019 U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo made an unannounced visit to Baghdad, where he met with Iraqi officials to discuss the United States' security concerns amid what he called "escalating" Iranian activity. Pompeo's May 7 visit to the Iraqi capital came after the United States earlier this week announced the deployment an aircraft carrier battle group to the Middle East, which U.S. official said was in response to threats to American forces and the country's allies from Iran. The U.S. intelligence was "very specific" about "attacks that were imminent," Pompeo said in Baghdad, without providing details. Tehran has dismissed the reported threat as "psychological warfare." Tensions between Tehran and Washington have escalated since President Donald Trump one year ago withdrew the United States from the 2015 between Iran and world powers and imposed sweeping sanctions on Iran. After meeting with Iraqi President Barham Salih and Prime Minister Adil Abdul-Mahdi in Baghdad, Pompeo told reporters: "We talked to them about the importance of Iraq ensuring that it's able to adequately protect Americans in their country." He said the purpose of the meetings also was to inform Iraqi leaders about "the increased threat stream that we had seen" so they could effectively provide protection to U.S. forces. Pompeo said he had assured Iraqi officials that the United States stands ready to "continue to ensure that Iraq is a sovereign, independent nation." "We don't want anyone interfering in their country, certainly not by attacking another nation inside of Iraq," he said. Asked about the decision to deploy additional forces to the Middle East, Pompeo said: "The message that we've sent to the Iranians, I hope, puts us in a position where we can deter and the Iranians will think twice about attacking American interests." After his four-hour visit, Pompeo tweeted that his meetings in Baghdad were used "to reinforce our friendship & to underline the need for Iraq to protect diplomatic facilities & Coalition personnel." Iraqi Foreign Minister Mohammed Ali al-Hakim said the sides discussed "bilateral ties, the latest security developments in the region, and anti-terrorism efforts." U.S. forces are deployed in Iraq as part of the international coalition against the extremist group Islamic State. Ahead of the visit, Pompeo said he would also discuss with the Iraqis pending business accords, including "big energy deals that can disconnect them from Iranian energy." Earlier, the U.S. secretary of state had attended a meeting of the Arctic Council in Finland and abruptly canceled a planned visit to Germany due to what a spokesperson said were "pressing issues." White House national-security adviser John Bolton on May 5 said that the deployment of the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier and accompanying ships, along with a bomber task force, to waters near Iran was intended to send "a clear and unmistakable message to the Iranian regime that any attack on United States interests or on those of our allies will be met with unrelenting force." The United States was acting "in response to a number of troubling and escalatory indications and warnings," Bolton said. The Pentagon said on May 7 that the U.S. bomber task force being sent would consist of long-range, nuclear-capable B-52 bombers. Keyvan Khosravi, spokesman for Iran's Supreme National Security Council, said the USS Abraham Lincoln was already due in the Persian Gulf and dismissed the U.S. announcement as a "clumsy" attempt to recycle old news for "psychological warfare." "From announcements of naval movements (that actually occurred last month) to dire warnings about so-called 'Iranian threats'," Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif tweeted. "If US and clients don't feel safe, it's because they're despised by the people of the region -- blaming Iran won't reverse that." The latest escalation between Washington and Tehran comes ahead of the May 8 anniversary of the U.S. pullout from the nuclear agreement with Iran that provided the country with relief from sanctions in return for curbs on its nuclear program. With reporting by AP, Reuters, AFP, and the BBC Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/pompeo-makes- unannouned-trip-to-iraq-warns-of-iranian -activity/29927542.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 Pakistani ex-PM Nawaz returns back to jail as bail expires IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Islamabad, May 8, IRNA -- Pakistan's former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has returned back to jail after the expiry of his six-week bail in a corruption case, local media reported Earlier the Supreme Court of Pakistan on Friday rejected Nawaz's plea seeking an extension in his bail period. The Court also rejected Nawaz's request to travel abroad for medical treatment. Pakistan Muslim league-Nawaz leader's daughter Maryam Nawaz and other party leaders accompanied him to the jail. Hundreds of PML-N workers turned up on the occasion to express solidarity with the party supremo and showered his vehicle with rose petals. Nawaz Sharif was sentenced to seven years in prison and was fined Rs1.5 billion and $25 million in the Al-Azizia corruption reference by an accountability court on December 24, 2018. The former premier had filed a bail plea in the Islamabad High Court on medical grounds, but it was turned down as the high court noted that 'none of the reports [about Sharif's condition] suggest that continued imprisonment of the petitioner, in any way, would be detrimental to his life'. Later he moved the Supreme Court which granted the bail to former PM on medical grounds for six weeks. Sharif family has been fighting a series of cases on accusations of money-laundering, tax evasion and hiding offshore assets. On July 28, 2017, the Supreme Court verdict had, besides disqualifying then Prime Minister Nawaz from his position, also directed the accountability authority to file three references regarding the family's Avenfield Properties, Al-Azizia, and Flagship Investment before the accountability court. 272**2050 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Blast targeting police checkpoint kills 9 in Pakistan's Lahore Iran Press TV Wed May 8, 2019 06:11AM An explosion targeting a police checkpoint in the Pakistani city of Lahore has killed at least nine people and injured 24 others. According to police, the blast targeted the checkpoint near one of the gates of the Data Darbar Sufi shrine in Lahore, Punjab Province, on Wednesday. "Police was the prime target in this attack. We are collecting forensic evidences to ascertain the nature of the blast. This attack has left nine dead and 24 injured," said Ashfaq Khan, the deputy inspector general of police operations in Lahore. The grand Data Darbar shrine is a frequently visited place of worship. The blast near the shrine took place one the second day of the Muslim holy fasting month of Ramadan. The Pakistani Taliban later claimed responsibility for the attack. Another main shrine, the Lal Shahbaz Qalandar in Sehwan, Sindh Province, was the target of a bombing attack in February 2017 that killed over 70 people. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address US Extends National Emergency Regarding Syria, Leaves Sanctions in Place - WH Sputnik News 23:15 08.05.2019(updated 00:26 09.05.2019) WASHINGTON (Sputnik) - US President Donald Trump continued on Wednesday the national emergency with respect to Syria for an additional year leaving sanctions against Damascus in place, the White House said in a notice on Wednesday. "The Syrian regime's actions and policies, including with respect to chemical weapons, supporting terrorist organizations, and obstructing the Lebanese government's ability to function effectively, continue to foster the rise of extremism and sectarianism and pose an unusual and extraordinary threat to the national security, foreign policy, and economy of the United States," the notice said. "Therefore, in accordance with section 202(d) of the National Emergencies Act, 50 U.S.C. 1622(d), I am continuing for 1 year the national emergency declared with respect to the actions of the Government of Syria." On 11 May 2004, then US President George W.Bush issued Executive Order 13338 declaring a national emergency with respect to the actions of the Syrian government, and imposing sanctions on individuals and entities. Executive Order 13338 authorized the freezing of certain individuals' property and prohibited the exportation or re-exportation of certain goods to Syria. Trump called on the Assad regime to stop its "violence against the Syrian people" and allow a political transition in Syria that "will forge a credible path to a future of greater freedom, democracy, opportunity, and justice." Syria has been in a state of civil war since 2011, with government forces fighting against numerous opposition groups and terrorist organizations. US officials have repeatedly called for Assad to resign, and Washington has supported a variety of militant groups that have fought to topple his government. The US-led coalition of more than 70 countries has been conducting airstrikes on Daesh* positions since 2014, in a mission that was not authorised by the Syrian government nor the UN Security Council. Syrian media have repeatedly reported on US-led coalition strikes, which have led to countless civilian casualties and damage to crucial infrastructure in the Arab Republic. *Daesh (ISIS/ISIL/Islamic State) and Al-Qaeda are terrorist groups banned in US, Russia and many other countries. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Kurdish-Led SDF Transfers IS Relatives to Home Countries By Sirwan Kajjo May 08, 2019 U.S.-backed Syrian forces have handed over more than 100 women and children of Islamic State (IS) fighters to their home countries, local officials told VOA. The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), a Kurdish-led military alliance, said Wednesday that Kazakhstan and Sweden were the latest countries that had agreed to take some of their citizens held in northeast Syria. "We handed over 70 children and 32 women to representatives of the Kazakhstan government yesterday," Kamal Akif, a spokesman for the Kurdish-led administration in northeast Syria, told VOA. "Sweden took seven children on the same day." Officials in Sweden confirmed the transfer of the children. Thousands of IS relatives SDF is holding more than 1,200 IS militants from nearly 50 countries, local officials said. There are also about 8,000 IS family members who have been settled in an overcrowded camp in northeast Syria, the same sources said. The SDF declared victory over the so-called IS caliphate on March 23 after defeating the terror group in its last stronghold in eastern Syria. But SDF officials said they could not bear the responsibility of dealing with IS captives alone and that other countries should step in by taking back their citizens, particularly those who have fought with IS. "Our region is still unstable, so any major turmoil could offer an opportunity for these dangerous individuals to escape prison and pose yet another threat to the entire world," Abdulkarim Omar, co-chair of foreign relations in the Kurdish-led region in Syria, told VOA in a previous interview. European citizens U.S. President Donald Trump also has urged European countries to take back their citizens who had joined IS in Syria. Countries such as France so far have been reluctant to respond. But French officials said they're considering taking in more parentless children who are now in the custody of Kurdish forces in Syria. "We are trying our best to bring back these orphans," French Armed Forces Minister Florence Parly told a Monte Carlo radio station Wednesday. "We must first make sure they are indeed orphans." She added that the French "Foreign Ministry had sent representatives [to Syria] to clearly determine these cases so that we can conduct more repatriation operations." In March, France took back five children who had been either orphaned or separated from their parents during the war on IS in Syria, according to the AFP news organization. Local Kurdish officials said that in April, Kosovo took back 100 Kosovar citizens who were children and wives of IS fighters. Pressure at home Analysts believe that many European governments have been under pressure at home to address the issue of children and women left behind by IS militants after the defeat of the terror group. "It is something that they have to deal with sooner or later," said Sadradeen Kinno, a Syrian researcher who follows Islamist groups in the region. "So Europeans feel that if they don't solve this problem once and for all, then they could face challenges posed by these very children in the future," he told VOA. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Text of a Notice on the Continuation of the National Emergency with Respect to the Actions of the Government of Syria May 8, 2019 On May 11, 2004, pursuant to his authority under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act, 50 U.S.C. 1701-1706, and the Syria Accountability and Lebanese Sovereignty Restoration Act of 2003, Public Law 108-175, the President issued Executive Order 13338, in which he declared a national emergency with respect to the actions of the Government of Syria. To deal with this national emergency, Executive Order 13338 authorized the blocking of property of certain persons and prohibited the exportation or reexportation of certain goods to Syria. The national emergency was modified in scope and relied upon for additional steps taken in Executive Order 13399 of April 25, 2006, Executive Order 13460 of February 13, 2008, Executive Order 13572 of April 29, 2011, Executive Order 13573 of May 18, 2011, Executive Order 13582 of August 17, 2011, Executive Order 13606 of April 22, 2012, and Executive Order 13608 of May 1, 2012. The President took these actions to deal with the unusual and extraordinary threat to the national security, foreign policy, and economy of the United States constituted by the actions of the Government of Syria in supporting terrorism, maintaining its then-existing occupation of Lebanon, pursuing weapons of mass destruction and missile programs, and undermining United States and international efforts with respect to the stabilization and reconstruction of Iraq. The regime's brutality and repression of the Syrian people, who have been calling for freedom and a representative government, not only endangers the Syrian people themselves, but also generates instability throughout the region. The Syrian regime's actions and policies, including with respect to chemical weapons, supporting terrorist organizations, and obstructing the Lebanese government's ability to function effectively, continue to foster the rise of extremism and sectarianism and pose an unusual and extraordinary threat to the national security, foreign policy, and economy of the United States. As a result, the national emergency declared on May 11, 2004, and the measures to deal with that emergency adopted on that date in Executive Order 13338; on April 25, 2006, in Executive Order 13399; on February 13, 2008, in Executive Order 13460; on April 29, 2011, in Executive Order 13572; on May 18, 2011, in Executive Order 13573; on August 17, 2011, in Executive Order 13582; on April 22, 2012, in Executive Order 13606; and on May 1, 2012, in Executive Order 13608, must continue in effect beyond May 11, 2019. Therefore, in accordance with section 202(d) of the National Emergencies Act, 50 U.S.C. 1622(d), I am continuing for 1 year the national emergency declared with respect to the actions of the Government of Syria. In addition, the United States condemns the Assad regime's use of brutal violence and human rights abuses and calls on the Assad regime to stop its violence against the Syrian people, uphold existing ceasefires, enable the delivery of humanitarian assistance, and allow a political transition in Syria that will forge a credible path to a future of greater freedom, democracy, opportunity, and justice. The United States will consider changes in the composition, policies, and actions of the Government of Syria in determining whether to continue or terminate this national emergency in the future. This notice shall be published in the Federal Register and transmitted to the Congress. DONALD J. TRUMP THE WHITE HOUSE, May 8, 2019. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Militants Shell Settlements in 2 Syrian Provinces in Past 24 Hours Russian MoD Sputnik News 01:16 09.05.2019 MOSCOW (Sputnik) - Militants bombarded the western Syrian provinces of Latakia and Hama over the past 24 hours, the head of the Russian Defence Ministry's Centre for Syrian Reconciliation, Maj. Gen. Viktor Kupchishin, said on Wednesday. "Over the past 24 hours, illegally armed groups have bombarded [several] settlements in the Latakia province and in the Hama province", Kupchishin said. He noted that the situation in the Idlib de-escalation zone has remained very tense, despite the ceasefire agreement in place there and that armed groups breached the ceasefire on multiple occasions. Meanwhile, over past several days, militants have reportedly boosted the number of shellings of the Syrian provinces of Hama, Aleppo and Latakia. Illegal armed groups have also been reportedly attempting to attack the positions of the Syrian Army. Government forces have responded by attacking the remaining terrorists in Idlib. Syrian servicemen have reportedly bombarded depots, artillery positions and observation posts of Nusra Front terrorist group. Syria has been in the state of war since 2011, with numerous opposition groups and terrorist organizations fighting the Syrian armed forces to topple the government of President Bashar Assad. Russia, alongside Turkey and Iran, is a guarantor of the ceasefire regime in Syria. Moscow has also been assisting Damascus through supporting the struggle against terrorist groups, providing humanitarian aid to local residents and facilitating the return of refugees. *Nusra Front is a terrorist group banned in Russia and many other countries. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address China slams US bills on Taiwan Global Times By Yang Sheng Source:Global Times Published: 2019/5/8 22:58:40 US arms sales to island won't save secessionists: expert The bills passed by the US House of Representatives that support Taiwan secessionist forces have angered China, and the Chinese Foreign Ministry on Wednesday warned that such a move could seriously damage the China-US relationship as well as peace and stability across the Taiwan Straits. The US should realize that its support for Taiwan secessionists won't change the overwhelming advantage that the People's Liberation Army holds against the military forces of the island and if the US makes too much trouble for the peaceful reunification of China, it will force China to realize the goal through non-peaceful measures, Chinese experts warned. Geng Shuang, spokesperson of China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said at a routine press conference on Wednesday that the relevant bills passed by the US House of Representatives "have seriously violated the one-China principle and the three China-US joint communiques and wantonly interfered in the internal affairs of China." The House on Tuesday unanimously backed the legislation, Reuters reported on Wednesday. The House voted 414-0 for a non-binding resolution reaffirming the "US commitment to Taiwan." It also backed by a unanimous vote the "Taiwan Assurance Act of 2019," which supports the island and urges it to increase its defense spending, noting Washington should conduct "regular sales and defense articles" to the island and back Taipei's "participation in international organizations." There was no word on when the Assurance Act might come up for a vote in the Senate, which would be necessary before it could become law, Reuters reported. "China firmly opposes it and has lodged solemn representations with the US," Geng said on Wednesday. He noted that China urged the US to abide by the one-China principle and the three China-US joint communiques, prevent Congress from moving forward with the bills and exercise caution and prudence when handling Taiwan-related issues to "avoid serious damage to cooperation between China and the US and cross-Straits peace and stability." More provocations Lu Xiang, an expert on China-US relations at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences in Beijing, said that the US will keep or increase its provocations on the Taiwan question since it has already identified China as a strategic competitor, and Taiwan is the most effective card to play for making trouble with China. "Taiwan's election will take place next year and so the US believes that now is good timing for it to play the Taiwan card to pressure or contain China," Lu said. According to the latest surveys and reports by some Taiwan-based media outlets and institutions, the anti-secession political figures within the island, including the KMT Party "election" candidates such as Terry Gou and Han Kuo-yu, are more popular than pro-secessionist Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) candidates and the current island leader Tsai Ing-wen. The US might not want to see pro-reunification forces win the "election" and start political negotiations with the mainland, Lu noted. Washington was likely to launch more actions to ensure the DPP stays in power, he said. "The mainland needs to be alert and prepare for any possible incident and provocation," Lu said. US politicians and policymakers believe that playing the Taiwan card can distract China's focus, said Xu Guangyu, a senior consultant at the China Arms Control and Disarmament Association. But this proves China was on the right track as the US was getting nervous, Xu said. China should not be distracted and should stick to what it is doing to keep influencing the people of the island with a calm attitude and isolate the secessionists, Xu noted. "The US dares not cross China's red line to intervene directly in the Taiwan question as it has no chance to win a war against China in the Taiwan Straits. What it can do is just make Taiwan a cash machine for US military industrial companies," he said. US can't save secessionists Peng Guangqian, a retired major general and a strategic studies expert at the Academy of Military Sciences of the PLA, said "US arms sales to the island won't keep the secessionists safe, but very likely will speed up their destruction." The military advantage the mainland holds is unchangeable, no matter what the US sells to the island, and more arms sales could force the PLA to further increase its capability to reunify the island by force, Peng said. "So US provocations are not a bad thing to some extent. The reunification might be realized earlier than we expect through non-peaceful means if the US increases its provocation." A military exercise is being conducted by the PLA in waters off East China's Zhejiang Province, north of Taipei in Taiwan, from 6 am May 5 to 6 pm May 10, the yhnews.zjol.com.cn news portal run by the coastal city government of Yuhuan, East China's Zhejiang Province reported on Monday. The exercise aims to showcase China's full ability to protect its national sovereignty, territorial integrity and development interests, said Chinese mainland military experts. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address US House passes bills in support of Taiwan Iran Press TV Wed May 8, 2019 03:48AM The United States House of Representatives has unanimously passed a bill reaffirming US commitment to Taiwan which is one of a growing number of sticking points in the US-China relationship. The House voted 414-0 for a non-binding resolution on Tuesday and also backed by unanimous voice vote the "Taiwan Assurance Act of 2019." The Assurance Act calls on Taipei to increase its defense spending amid disputes with China which sees Taiwan as a wayward province under the globally-recognized "One China" policy. China has pursued Taiwan's reunification ever since the island broke away from the mainland during a civil war in 1949. China claims full sovereignty over the island; and almost all world countries, including the US, recognize that sovereignty. However, Washington which has no formal diplomatic relations with Taipei by law has extensive military ties with Taiwan, selling advanced military hardware to the island. The House also said Tuesday that Washington should conduct "regular sales and defense articles" to Taiwan, noting it backs its participation in international organizations. It was unclear when the Assurance Act might go to the Senate for a vote, which would be necessary before it could become law. Both measures are symptomatic of US worry over any efforts by Beijing to influence Taiwan. Washington, under President Donald Trump, has opened a new de facto embassy in Taipei and passed a law to encourage senior US officials to travel to Taiwan to meet their counterparts and vice versa. Chinese President Xi Jinxing warned in January that the use of force would remain an option for Beijing to bring Taiwan back under Chinese control. The new development comes as Washington's trade war with China has intensified after Trump threatened to impose tariffs on nearly all of the US-headed Chinese products, while announcing a dramatic increase in the tariffs, which are already in place. On Sunday, Trump said tariffs on $200 billion of goods would increase to 25 percent from 10 percent as soon as Friday, reversing a decision he had made in February to keep them at the 10 percent rate. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Turkish military servicemen to travel to Russia for S-400 training in late May: Report Iran Press TV Wed May 8, 2019 05:57PM A Russian military source says Turkish military personnel are set to travel to Moscow later this month in order to participate in a training course on the operation of advanced S-400 air defense missile systems. "At the end of May, around 100 Turkish servicemen will start training at a Russian military center on the use of the S-400 systems," Russia's TASS quoted the unnamed source as saying. The source added that the training course "will last about five months." The Russian military source further highlighted that a regiment of S-400 missile defense systems is expected to be delivered to Turkey later this year. Speaking in an exclusive interview with Turkish-language and nationwide Kanal 7 television network on May 5, Turkish Vice President Fuat Oktay said United States concerns as to Ankara's purchase of S-400 systems from Moscow were not reasonable and added that Turkey would not back down. "If Turkey decides that the S-400 is a decision they want to go forward with, then we have to move work out of Turkey," he said. Oktay's comments came only two days after Acting US Defense Secretary Patrick Shanahan warned that the Pentagon will halt manufacturing support for the F-35 fighter jets in Turkey if Ankara does not abandon plans to buy the Russian missile defense system. Shanahan noted that he had met delegations from US aerospace manufacturers Lockheed Martin and United Technologies to discuss options if Turkey refuses to take the measure. The United States announced on April 1 that it would be suspending all "deliveries and activities" related to Turkey's procurement of F-35 stealth fighter jets over Ankara's plans to purchase the S-400s. On April 24, Turkey Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said his country will look elsewhere for an alternative to American F-35 fighter jets if Washington blocks the delivery of its advanced stealth warplanes to Ankara. "We are already partners in the F-35 manufacturing program, we participate in this project, we have paid the necessary amount. There are currently no problems with this," Cavusoglu said. "But in the worst case scenario, we will have to satisfy our need in another place, where the best technologies will be offered," he added. Moscow and Ankara finalized an agreement on the delivery of the S-400 in December 2017. Back in April 2018, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin said in Ankara that they had agreed to expedite the delivery of the S-400. At the time, it was said that the delivery could be made between late 2019 and early 2020. A number of NATO member states have criticized Turkey for its planned purchase of the S-400, arguing the missile batteries are not compatible with those of the military alliance. They also argue that the purchase could jeopardize Ankara's acquisition of F-35 fighter jets and possibly result in US sanctions. The S-400 is an advanced Russian missile system designed to detect, track, and destroy planes, drones, or missiles as far as 402 kilometers away. It has previously been sold only to China and India. Ankara is striving to boost its air defense, particularly after Washington decided in 2015 to withdraw its Patriot surface-to-air missile system from Turkish border with Syria, a move that weakened Turkey's air defense. Before gravitating towards Russia, the Turkish military reportedly walked out of a $3.4-billion contract for a similar Chinese system. The withdrawal took place under purported pressure from Washington. Ankara's ties with its Western allies in NATO have been strained over a range of other issues, including Washington's support for Kurdish militants in Syria as well as the US government's refusal to hand over Fethullah Gulen, a powerful opposition figure living in the US blamed for a coup attempt against Ankara in July 2016. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Speculation Grows in Turkey After Jailed Kurdish Leader Allowed to See Lawyers By Dorian Jones May 08, 2019 Turkey's surprise move to allow Abdullah Ocalan, the imprisoned leader of the outlawed Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK), to meet with his lawyers after an eight-year hiatus is spurring speculation of a shift in Ankara's hard-line policy following the 2015 collapse in peace talks with the rebel group. A nationwide hunger strike calling for an end to Ocalan's isolation spurred Turkish authorities to allow his lawyers a visit at Imrali Island prison where the 70-year-old Kurdish leader is being held. "The lawyers were informed they could meet Ocalan on the day of the announcement of a death fast [hunger strike leading to death], which involves at least 2 or 3,000, which has put the government in a difficult position," said Ertugrul Kurkcu, honorary president of the pro-Kurdish Peoples' Democratic Party (HDP). In a statement, Ocalan called on his supporters not to engage in activities that could harm them. What drew the most attention, however, was the rebel leader's call to Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) that "Turkish sensitivity should be taken into consideration." Turkey on the border Turkish forces are currently amassed on the Syrian border facing off against the SDF. Ankara accuses the People Protection Units (YPG), which makes up a large part of the SDF, of being a terrorist organization linked to the PKK. The PKK has waged a decades-long insurgency inside Turkey. "I think he is showing the YPG the limits they should remain within in the Syrian context and not bother the Turkish government," said Kurkcu. "He [Ocalan] seeks to finalize the situation without any losses of Syrian Kurdish population because Turkey is looking for an opportunity to intervene." Washington has been lobbying hard to prevent a Turkish intervention because the YPG is a crucial ally in its war against Islamic State. U.S. Special Representative for Syria, James Jeffrey, visited Ankara earlier this month for high-level talks to broker a solution. "We know James Jeffrey, the former U.S. ambassador to Ankara, is already the go-between to find the middle ground between the Ankara regime and the Kurdish political movement, be it in Turkey or Syria," said political scientist Cengiz Aktar. "So, the Ocalan lawyers' visit could be a proposal by him, because Ocalan is considered the symbolic leader of the YPG. We know from the Kurdish authorities in Syria that James Jeffrey was active to establish an indirect dialogue between Ankara and [YPG leader] Mazlum Kobane," Aktar added. Ocalan's influence Former senior Turkish diplomat Aydin Selcen, who founded Turkey's consul in the Iraqi Kurdistan regional capital, Irbil, said the significance of Ocalan's statement should not be overestimated. "Will it change anything on the ground? I am not sure, because on the ground, even the relationship between Qandil [PKK Iraqi headquarters] and the YPG commanders is quite opaque, not clear, let alone Ocalan's influence," he said. Selcen added, "What is the most interesting point is whether now there is some sort of coordination between the United States, the SDF, Ankara and Ocalan, and even perhaps between Qandil. That we shall see in the coming months." Reports of tentative communications between Ankara and the SDF, coupled with Ocalan's lawyers' meeting, is spurring speculation of a possible resumption of broader PKK peace talks. Turkish government members previously engaged in peace talks with Ocalan, which were accompanied by a PKK cease-fire and a partial withdrawal from Turkey. The process collapsed in 2015 amid mutual recrimination. The resulting fighting claimed thousands of lives and the destruction of numerous town and city centers across Turkey's predominately Kurdish region. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is ruling out a return to peace talks. "There is no question of such a thing as the peace process," he said Monday. Erdogan's AKP is in a coalition with the Nationalist Movement Party (MHP), which is ardently opposed to any peace talks. "It's [the AKP-MHP coalition] a problem, but it is also an opportunity," Selcen said. "It might mean Erdogan can change his coalition. It might mean he can opt for a new partner." Growing tensions? Turkish media have been awash with reports of growing tensions between the AKP and MHP, which have been exacerbated by the political defeat in most of Turkey's main cities, including Istanbul, during the local elections in March. Kurkcu played down hopes of new peace talks. "The present line of the PKK is devoted to changing the interlocutor, changing the negotiating partner, which they believe cannot be the AKP," he said. "The credit the AKP had five to six or seven years ago has vanished in tyranny. The AKP doesn't have the promise for any positive change in Turkey. It only offers dictatorship." Kurkcu confirmed that the HDP would again back Ekrem Imamoglu of the opposition CHP, who won the Istanbul mayoral election in March but is re-runningafter the AKP succeeded in having the vote annulled over claims of voting irregularities. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address UK Drops Idea of "Budget Frigate" Amid Fears It Won't be Able to Defend Itself Sputnik News 18:50 08.05.2019 Instead, the government has found a way to reduce the costs of construction for contractors, hoping that now the deal on 5 ships can be closed by the end of 2019. The first vessel is expected to be ready in 2023. The UK Ministry of Defence has admitted that it won't be able to receive new budget export-oriented frigates, Type 31e for a set price tag of 250m per vessel, The Telegraph reported, citing anonymous sources in the British government. The newspaper noted that prior to that some naval experts had expressed concern that such an inexpensive ship may become more of liability than an asset for any navy. At the same time, the ministry didn't scrap the idea of the warship for good. The price tag will remain the same, but now the winning bidder will bear fewer costs due to "government-furnished equipment". The term suggests that the state will provide the contractor with some of the ship's equipment, such as sophisticated software and even weaponry. The Save The Royal Navy website has suggested that London can use parts of the Type 23 frigate, which are now being decommissioned. However, according to the media outlet, the adaptation of the old ship's systems may take time and the government can't decommission the Type 23 rapidly without replacing them with something else. According to The Telegraph, Type 31e was designed to be a lucrative option for military exports with the first one expected to be ready in 2023. The original tender for the ship's construction was halted in summer 2018 due to lack of competition. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Press Availability With British Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt Press Availability Michael R. Pompeo Secretary of State U.K. Foreign and Commonwealth Office London, United Kingdom May 8, 2019 FOREIGN SECRETARY HUNT: Good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen. I'm delighted to welcome Secretary Mike Pompeo to the foreign office for his first bilateral visit to Britain, and it is a privilege to reaffirm the strength of the friendship between our two countries. The Anglo-American alliance was forged in the greatest struggle against tyranny the world has ever known. We'll soon commemorate the 75th anniversary of the Normandy landings when Britain and America joined forces with our allies to begin the liberation of Europe. We look forward to welcoming President Trump to mark that occasion, and it's fitting that Secretary Pompeo should be our guest on V-E Day. I'm proud to say that in defense and security, Britain and America cooperate more closely than any two countries in the world. We keep our peoples safe, we entrust one another with intelligence that saves lives on both sides of the Atlantic. Just last year when the Russian state used a chemical weapon in Salisbury, America responded by expelling 60 Russian officials, more than any other country, an act of friendship for which I repeat my thanks. We stand together in defense of the values upon which our nations were founded. Today, Secretary Pompeo and I met faith leaders, including the Archbishop of Canterbury, to discuss how we can better protect freedom of religion in a world where people of all faiths, including 245 million Christians, face persecution for practicing their beliefs. This is an issue close to both our hearts. The recent atrocities in New Zealand and Sri Lanka remind us just why. And I'm thankful that today we have a glimmer of light with the news that Asia Bibi will be able to embark on a new chapter of her life. I welcome the Government of Pakistan's commitment to uphold the rule of law following the decision of its supreme court to confirm her acquittal. Britain's primary concern has always been the safety of Asia Bibi and her family, and we've been in contact with our partners to help ensure she gets the freedom and security she deserves. Today, the prime minister and I have had excellent discussions with Secretary Pompeo on a range of global challenges including China and the situations in Yemen and Iran. Let me focus on two of those. First, Iran: The UK and U.S. work incredibly closely on Iran, including to counter Iran's destabilizing activity in the Middle East. Whilst we both agree that Iran must never be able to acquire a nuclear weapon, it's no secret that we have a different approach on how best to achieve that. The UK has continued to support the nuclear deal, which is a key achievement of the global nonproliferation architecture, because we believe it's in our shared security interests. But today's announcement from Tehran about its commitments under the deal is an unwelcome step. I urge Iran not to take further escalatory steps and to stand by its commitments. Sanctions were lifted in exchange for restrictions on Iran's nuclear program. Should Iran cease to observe its nuclear commitments, there would, of course, be consequences. For as long as Iran keeps its commitments, then so too will the United Kingdom. Turning to Venezuela, I'm deeply concerned by the plight of the Venezuelan people, who have suffered so much at the hands of Maduro, and we must intensify pressure on the regime, including through potential further sanctions and condemn those who are propping up Maduro, particularly Russia, whose deployment of military personnel in Caracas will achieve nothing except prolong the suffering of the Venezuelan people. So that's why earlier today, the foreign office expressed our deep concern about the Kremlin's actions to the Russian charge d'affaires. As we respond to these challenges, Britain and America are united by the values that have always been at the heart of our alliance. Our countries cherish the same beliefs in liberty, democracy, and the rule of law. The anniversary of D-Day reminds us how the valor and sacrifice of a previous generation saved those values from tyranny, and our duty is to follow humbly in that great tradition. So let me close by repeating my welcome to Mike, who is a great friend of the UK. We are proud to stand shoulder to shoulder with the United States to defend our common values. SECRETARY POMPEO: Thank you. Thank you, Foreign Secretary Hunt. This is my first trip to the United Kingdom as Secretary of State, but Jeremy and I have met many times at many different places in the world, and we talk frequently by phone. You've truly become a great friend and I know that you're a great partner to our collective desire to keep our two countries safe. It was my privilege to meet with you and with Prime Minister May. President Trump is very much looking forward to his visit here next month and commemorating D-Day with our great allies. It was evident in my conversations both with Jeremy and with Prime Minister May that the Special Relationship doesn't simply endure; it's thriving, despite what you might read in the papers, and we're ready to meet new challenges and face them together and seize on new opportunities together as well. Brexit has obviously been a hot topic here. I reiterated to the prime minister as well as to Foreign Secretary Hunt that it's the United Kingdom's sovereign and democratic choice on how it will proceed, but also that no matter what happens, the United States will continue our strong relationship with both the United Kingdom and the EU. Our great hope is that Brexit can be resolved soon because President Trump is eager to strike a bilateral trade agreement that expands on our number-one trade relationship. I've had the privilege as both CIA director and now as the Secretary of State to observe how the UK has been amongst our most reliable partners on a broad range of security issues. We are grateful for your support of our diplomacy and pressure against North Korea, your eagerness to contribute to the strength of the NATO alliance, and your leadership to resolve crises in Syria and in Yemen. The United Kingdom also has contributed mightily to the Coalition to Defeat ISIS and, as the attacks in Sri Lanka showed, we need to keep up that fight against radical Islamic terrorism. A key part of that fight is that every coalition member must take back terrorist fighters captured on the battlefield. Our nations have also stood side-by-side in confronting Russian aggression. We jointly held Russia accountable for the chemical weapons attacks in Salisbury of last year, and together we will continue to disrupt the hostile activities of Russian intelligence networks, uphold the prohibition of chemical weapons use, and defend our peoples against all forms of Russian aggression. The United States and the UK cooperate a great deal on regional security in Asia as well. That cooperation will be all the more necessary as China tries to shift the global balance of power in its favor. As a historic maritime power, Britain has shown leadership in standing up to China's unlawful behavior in the South China Sea, and we urge the British Government to be equally vigilant and vocal against a host of other Chinese activities that undermine the sovereignty of all nations. China's Belt and Road Initiative is just one of these problems. China peddles corrupt infrastructure deals in exchange for political influence. Its bribe-fueled debt-trap diplomacy undermines good governance and threatens to upend the free-market economic model on which so many countries depend, and which has lifted up hundreds of millions of people out of poverty. If China can't conduct BRI with maximum transparency, it shouldn't do it at all. We hope the UK will insist on the same. We also discussed at some length the importance of secure 5G networks. I'll have a little more to say on that this afternoon, but I'm confident that each of our two nations will choose a path which will ensure security of our networks. Elsewhere in Asia, the United States unequivocally supports UK sovereignty over the British Indian Ocean Territory. Its status as a UK territory is essential to the value of the joint U.S.-UK base on Diego Garcia and our shared security interests. We also had a forthright conversation on the Islamic Republic of Iran, and as Jeremy said, we share the same perception of the Iranian threat and we are together trying to find new ways to work closely to combat that threat. Finally, and following up on the roundtable discussion that we had with faith leaders this morning, the foreign secretary and I discussed the importance of religious freedom. This is just one example of the commitment to shared values on which this historic relationship depends. We will continue to cooperate to protect the God-given right of human beings in all parts of the world to believe what they want to believe. We look forward to seeing the UK at the second annual Ministerial to Advance Religious Freedom, which I'll host in July. Thank you again, Foreign Secretary Hunt, for your hospitality, and I look forward to continuing to meet the challenges of our time together. MR HOULSBY: Okay. We have time for a few short questions. First, James Landale from the BBC. QUESTION: Good afternoon. Foreign Secretary, can the Iran nuclear deal survive? What are you prepared to do to keep the Iran nuclear deal alive? And whose side are you on here, Tehran or Washington? And Mr. Secretary, if Iran enriches more uranium, what will the United States do? What sanctions are you further sanctions are you prepared to contemplate? And is there not a danger here that the greater the more pressure the United States places on Iran ends up not with Iran changing its behavior, but an increasing risk of war? Are you really prepared to contemplate the risk of war in Iran? FOREIGN SECRETARY HUNT: I'll go first. On the Iran nuclear deal, it is a very important achievement of Western diplomacy. Despite all the problems that we have in the Middle East today, Iran does not have nuclear weapons and its neighbors have not responded by getting their own nuclear weapons. And Secretary Pompeo and I are at one in agreeing that it will be a massive step back for that region if it became nuclearized. The JCPOA is a deal, and in return for the lifting of sanctions Iran has agreed to vital compliance measures. If they break that deal, then there will be consequences in terms of how European powers react. So we urge the Iranians to think very long and hard before they break that deal. It is in no one's interest, it is certainly not in their interest because the moment they go nuclear, their neighbors will as well. And so that's why this is a very serious moment, and we strongly urge them to reconsider what they said in their letter. SECRETARY POMPEO: So not far from here are the Churchill War Rooms, where a leader of this great country stared evil in the face and recognized the threat which that that evil presented to the entire world. We're working together to push back against that threat. Your question about whose side are you on this is a parlor game that gets played. We're on the same side. We're on the side of values-driven democracy, we're on the side of freedom, we're on the side of creating a nation for the Iranian people where they can have religious freedom and they can have a democracy. We're on the side of Europe so that it can exist without assassination campaigns being conducted in its own capitals. We're on this side together. We're on the side of urging a nation not to underwrite Hizballah, which presents risks to Israel. These are things that Jeremy and I and our two countries share and have in common, and we are each determined to ensure that that outcome is ultimately achieved. MS ORTAGUS: Courtney McBride, Wall Street Journal. QUESTION: Thank you both. Mr. Secretary, what does the selective noncompliance announcement from Iran specifically mean for the U.S.? I mean, does it change anything? I mean, are is are you concerned that this removes remaining safeguards against nuclear activity? And for you, Mr. Foreign Secretary, are you ruling out immediate sanctions? You sound as though you're urging Iran to resume or remain in compliance. Are you ruling out an immediate response from the UK and from Europe more broadly? And beyond that, is there a red line? SECRETARY POMPEO: So as for the United States, first of all, I've seen the reporting, I've seen the letter that's been sent. I think it was intentionally ambiguous. We'll have to wait to see what Iran's actions actually are. They've made a number of statements about actions they threatened to do in order to get the world to jump. We'll see what they actually do. The United States will wait to observe that. And when we do, we'll make good decisions. We've obviously we've made a decision different than the United Kingdom has with respect to the JCPOA. And so they Iran's decision to depart from the JCPOA for us mostly is about their decision to work on their nuclear program to create pathways which might reduce their breakout time. These are the things that are essential for us to continue to work and to observe, and I am confident that as we watch Iran's activity that the United Kingdom and our European partners will move forward together to ensure that Iran has no pathway for a nuclear weapon system. FOREIGN SECRETARY HUNT: According to the letter that we've received this morning, there is a 60-day window before Iran plans to do anything, and they need to be very clear that if they don't comply with the JCPOA, there will be consequences. And I'm sure that I'm speaking for my European colleagues in that respect as well. This is a very big moment for Iran. Their economy is in a state of severe distress; it's the last thing they should be doing for the Iranian people, to be investing money in re-nuclearizing, and it will make them less secure, not more secure. MR HOULSBY: Larissa Brown from the Daily Mail. QUESTION: Thank you, Mr. Secretary. If Britain gives partial access to Huawei to its 5G network, will that affect your special relationship with Britain, and how concerned are you? If I may, are you frustrated by Britain's reluctance to take back its foreign fighters from Syria? And Secretary of State, is this Huawei deal worth risking Britain's special relationship with America? Thank you. SECRETARY POMPEO: So I have great confidence that the United Kingdom will never take an action that will break the special relationship, just so you should know upfront more broadly. With respect to 5G, we're continuing to have technical discussions. We're making our views very well known. From America's perspective, each country has a sovereign right to make its own decision about how to deal with the challenge. The United States has an obligation to ensure that places where we will operate, places where American information is, places where we have our national security at risk, that they operate inside trusted networks, and we will that's what we'll do. With respect to the foreign fighters, yes, we have an expectation that every country will work to take back their foreign fighters and continue to hold those foreign fighters, and we think that's essential. There are challenges that even go beyond that today. There are some 70,000 people at a camp there, some women and children. We've got to sort through that. There's very real risk. When I was in Baghdad last night, I spent a great deal of time talking with the Iraqi leadership about this and how we can all move forward together to ensure that our children and our grandchildren never have to fight these same terrorists again. We've rounded them up. They are now detained, and they need to continue to be detained so they cannot present additional risk to anyone anywhere in the world. FOREIGN SECRETARY HUNT: All right. Just on that last issue, this is obviously a very important issue that we're working through very closely. We have to keep an eye on both the security of the United Kingdom, but also make sure there is due process, and we are looking at all the options available to us in this situation. With respect to Huawei and 5G, we have not made our final decision as a government. We are considering the evidence very carefully, but we would never take a decision that compromised our ability to share intelligence with our Five Eyes colleagues or particularly with the United States. And we are absolutely clear that the security relationship that we have with the United States is what has underpinned the international order since 1945 and has led to unparalleled peace and prosperity, and the preservation of that is our number one foreign policy priority. MS ORTAGUS: Katie Pavlich, Townhall. QUESTION: Secretary Pompeo, what is your reaction to the European countries that remain in the JCPOA setting up special financial channels for Iran to continue doing business while avoiding the triggering of U.S. sanctions especially given Iran's threats today of noncompliance with that deal? And Foreign Minister Hunt, where does the UK stand on Nicolas Maduro and the current crisis in Venezuela? Is the UK willing to go beyond condemnation and sanctioning if Maduro decides to stay? And I'd like to get your reaction to the endorsement of Maduro's dictatorship by labor leader Jeremy Corbyn. SECRETARY POMPEO: I'd actually rather answer your second question. (Laughter.) Yeah, I will. I'm happy to address the question you put to me. Look, we've talked with the UK, Germany, and France about INSTEX. There are provisions in the sanctions we put in place that allow humanitarian aid and certain products to get into the country. We've said so long as that is the vehicle that is a vehicle being used for that limited purpose, that non-sanctioned purpose, it's, of course, unobjectionable. When transactions move beyond that, it doesn't matter what vehicle's out there, if the transaction is sanctionable, we will evaluate it, review it, and if appropriate, levy sanctions against those that were involved in that transaction. It's very straightforward. As for your second question, it is disgusting to see leaders in not only the United Kingdom, but in the United States as well, who continue to support the murderous dictator Maduro. And it is not in either of our country's best interest for those leaders to continue to advocate on their behalf the Venezuela people have spoken through their constitutional mechanism. They have put Juan Guaido as their interim president, and he is the duly elected leader there, and Maduro is on borrowed time. And to see American leaders or leaders from this country continue to provide support and comfort to a regime that has created so much devastation, so much destruction I was in Colombia, I saw those families who had to make choices about whether to feed their children on even days or odd days. That is a direct result of Nicolas Maduro. And no leader in a country with Western democratic values ought to stand behind them. FOREIGN SECRETARY HUNT: This is a country where 3 million people have fled the country. GDP's gone down by 40 percent in the last four years. People can't access basic meds, and people are rifling through rubbish bags to get food in the streets. And John McDonnell describes this as socialism in action, and I think people need to draw their own conclusions about what his own plans might be for the UK. MR HOULSBY: Ladies and gentlemen, thank you very much. I'm afraid that's all we've got time for today. Thank you. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Jeremy Hunt's opening remarks at press conference with Mike Pompeo The Foreign Secretary was speaking in London on 8 May alongside the US Secretary of State. 8 May 2019 Good afternoon. I'm delighted to welcome Secretary Mike Pompeo to the Foreign Office for his first bilateral visit to Britain. And it's a privilege to reaffirm the strength of the friendship between our two countries. The Anglo-American alliance was forged in the greatest struggle against tyranny the world has ever known. We will soon commemorate the 75th Anniversary of the Normandy Landings, when Britain and America joined forces with our Allies to begin the liberation of Europe. We look forward to welcoming President Trump to mark that occasion and it's fitting that Secretary Pompeo should be our guest on VE Day. I'm proud to say that in defence and security, Britain and America cooperate more closely than any two countries in the world. We keep our people safe; we entrust one another with intelligence that saves lives on both sides of the Atlantic. Just last year, when the Russian state used a chemical weapon in Salisbury, America responded by expelling 60 Russian officials more than any other country an act of friendship for which I repeat my thanks. We stand together in defence of the values upon which our nations were founded. 100% The timeline slider below uses WAI ARIA. Please use the documentation for your screen reader to find out more. 00:00:00 Today Secretary Pompeo and I met faith leaders, including the Archbishop of Canterbury, to discuss how we can better protect freedom of religion in a world where people of all faiths including 245 million Christians face persecution for practising their beliefs. This is an issue close to both our hearts. The recent atrocities in New Zealand and Sri Lanka remind us just why. And I am thankful that today we have a glimmer of light with the news that Asia Bibi will be able to embark on a new chapter in her life. I welcome the government of Pakistan's commitment to uphold the rule of law following the decision of its Supreme Court to confirm her acquittal. Britain's primary concern has always been the safety of Asia Bibi and her family; we have been in contact with our partners to help ensure that she gets the freedom and security she deserves. Today, the Prime Minister and I have had excellent discussions with Secretary Pompeo on a range of global challenges, including China and the situations in Yemen and Iran. Let me focus on two of those issues. First, Iran. The UK and US work incredibly closely on Iran, including to counter Iran's destabilising activity in the Middle East. Whilst we both agree that Iran must never be able to acquire a nuclear weapon, it is no secret that we have a different approach on how best to achieve that. The UK has continued to support the nuclear deal, which is a key achievement of the global non-proliferation architecture, because we believe it is in our shared security interests. But today's announcement from Tehran about its commitments under the deal is an unwelcome step. I urge Iran not to take further escalatory steps and to stand by its commitments. Sanctions were lifted in exchange for restrictions on Iran's nuclear programme. Should Iran cease to observe its nuclear commitments, there would of course be consequences. For as long as Iran keeps its commitments, then so too will the United Kingdom. Turning to Venezuela, I am deeply concerned by the plight of the Venezuelan people who have suffered so much at the hands of Maduro. We must intensify pressure on the regime, including through potential further sanctions, and condemn those who are propping up Maduro, particularly Russia whose deployment of military personnel in Caracas will achieve nothing except prolong the suffering of the Venezuelan people. That's why earlier today the Foreign Office expressed our deep concern about the Kremlin's actions to the Russian Charge d'Affaires. As we respond to these challenges, Britain and America are united by the values that have always been at the heart of our alliance. Our countries cherish the same beliefs in liberty, democracy and the rule of law. The anniversary of D-Day reminds us how the valour and sacrifice of a previous generation saved those values from tyranny. Our duty is to follow in this great tradition. Let me close by repeating my welcome to Mike, who is a great friend of the United Kingdom. We are proud to stand shoulder to shoulder with the United States to defend our values. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Pompeo Visits London to Reaffirm US-UK Ties By VOA News May 08, 2019 U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said the United States' and Britain's "special relationship" will flourish despite differences over Iran's nuclear program and China's involvement with the British communications network. In a news conference Wednesday in London, Pompeo said it was evident in his meetings with both foreign minister Jeremy Hunt and Prime Minister Theresa May that "the special relationship does not simply endure, it is thriving." The purpose of Pompeo's trip was to discuss the U.S.-Britain relationship post-Brexit, when Britain is no longer part of the European Union. "It is now exactly the opposite of the time for either of us to go wobbly," he said in a speech at a conservative think tank Wednesday, in which he praised the "special relationship" of the two nations. In regard to Iran, Pompeo said the United States will make decisions about how best to respond to Iran when it sees what Tehran's actions are. Pompeo said the two nations agree that Iran should never be allowed to acquire a nuclear weapon, but each has a different approach about how that should be accomplished. The United States pulled out of the international nuclear agreement with Iran last year, re-imposing sanctions on Iran because of its nuclear activity. The agreement limits Iran's capacity to produce nuclear fuel for 15 years. Iran announced Wednesday it will begin enriching uranium at a higher level again, something it agreed to stop in the nuclear agreement, if other countries do not shield it from U.S. sanctions. Regarding Chinese communications company Huawei, the United States has asked its allies not to use Huawei communications equipment because of fears China could use the equipment to spy on other nations. "Why would anyone grant such power to a regime that has already grossly violated cyberspace? What can Her Majesty's Government do to make sure sensitive technologies don't become open doors for Beijing's spymasters?" Pompeo asked. But Britain has said it is planning to allow Huawei to participate in a "restricted role" in the building of its next-generation communications network. Pompeo flew to London after canceling a trip to Germany to make a surprise visit to Baghdad, where he warned Iraqi officials about a threat of "imminent" Iranian attacks on American interests in the Middle East. Iranian President Hassan Rouhani announced earlier Wednesday the country would stop complying with two parts of the 2015 deal U.S. President Donald Trump withdrew from last year. The Trump administration, nevertheless, continues to demand that Tehran honor its commitments. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address New York, NY, May 08, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- via NEWMEDIAWIRE -- Qrons Inc. (OTC: QRON), an emerging biotechnology company developing advanced stem cell-synthetic hydrogel-based solutions to combat neuronal injuries with a laser focus on treating traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), both concussions and penetrating injuries, announced today the appointment of Dr. Motti Ratmansky, a member of Qrons Scientific Advisory Board as Special Advisor to the Company for IND & Clinical Trials. Remaining on the Scientific Advisory Board, Dr. Ratmansky will take a more active role as Senior Advisor to assist the Company in preparing for its IND (Investigational New Drug) filing. This represents the Companys further steps to enhance its operation for its IND and clinical trial enabling process, including the possible addition of US-based individuals. Jonah Meer, Qrons Chief Executive Officer, commented, Dr. Ratmansky is a highly experienced, well esteemed doctor. We have benefited from his guidance during his time on our Advisory Board. As we have been developing our QS100 and QS 200 product candidates there is now a need for the focus of a highly qualified person to advise us as we begin to prepare for dealing with the FDA IND program and clinical trials. Dr. Ratmansky is that person! Dr. Ratmansky is a qualified good clinical practice researcher and a member of Loewenstein's Hospital Institutional Review Board (IRB), with vast experience in human clinical studies design, regulatory approval and ethical aspects. He is also a member of the hospital's research funding committee, evaluating the financial aspects of clinical trials design. Loewenstein Hospital is the largest and leading Israeli hospital in the field of rehabilitation medicine. As a clinical trial lead investigator, he is responsible for preparing applications to the local IRB and U.S. National Institute of Health (NIH) National Library of Medicine registration, outlining the proposed clinical study and patients consent forms. He is currently serving as a lead investigator in 12 clinical trials. As a medical consultant in recent years to early stage biotech companies, he maintains the linkage between the R&D and the regulatory strategy by interacting with FDA regulatory consultants' designing research plans in accordance with regulatory demands. He has published several original research papers and reviews in international peer reviewed medical journals. Dr. Ratmansky holds an M.D. degree from the Technion Institute and B. Med.Sc from The Hebrew University as well as two specialties both in pain and rehabilitation medicine with 20 years of experience in clinical medicine. Ido Merfeld, Qrons co-Founder and Head of Product, stated, I have had the privilege of working with Dr. Ratmansky on our Scientific Advisory Board. We are thrilled that he sees the promise of our products and has agreed to provide special assistance and focus as we begin preparing for an IND and clinical trials. Dr. Ratmansky: Ive had the pleasure of working with Ido and the Qrons team as a member of the Scientific Advisory Board for the last year and a half and have seen first-hand the revolutionary treatment they are developing for TBI. I am excited to provide special assistance to shepherd the product candidates to an IND filing and clinical trials. About Qrons Inc. Headquartered in New York City, the Company is a publicly traded emerging biotechnology company developing advanced cell-based solutions to combat neuronal injuries with a laser focus on traumatic brain injuries and concussion. The Company has two candidate products for treating TBIs, both integrating proprietary, modified mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and smart synthetic material QS100 an injury specific, 3D printable, implantable MSCs-synthetic hydrogel, to treat penetrating brain injuries and QS200 an injectable MSCs-synthetic hydrogel for the treatment of diffused injuries commonly referred to as concussions. The Company entered into a license and research funding agreement ("License Agreement") and related service agreements with Ariel University R&D Co., Ltd., a wholly owned subsidiary of Ariel University, based in Ariel, Israel. In consideration for payments under the License Agreement, the Company received an exclusive worldwide royalty-bearing license in Ariel patents and know-how to develop and commercialize products for neuronal tissue regeneration and/or repair, resulting from Ariel's research or technology or the Company's research funding. The Company entered into a Sponsored Research Agreement with Dartmouth College funding further research with Professor Chenfeng Ke and his team at the Chemistry Department, aiming to develop innovative 3D printable, biocompatible advanced materials. The Company is negotiating, a worldwide, royalty-bearing, exclusive license with Dartmouth for Professor Ke's 3D printable materials in the field of human and animal health. Please visit http://www.qrons.com. This press release contains forward-looking statements as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. Actual results may differ materially from those indicated by these forward-looking statements as a result of risks and uncertainties impacting the Company's business including increased competition; the ability of the Company to expand its operations, to attract and retain qualified professionals, technological obsolescence; general economic conditions; and other risks detailed from time to time in the Company's filings. Contact: Qrons Inc. Jonah Meer Chief Executive Officer 212-945-2080 French German Chinese (Traditional) Chinese (Simplified) English AMSTERDAM, The Netherlands, May 09, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- IBFD is pleased to announce that its 5th Africa Tax Symposium will be held from 29-31 May at the Hotel Spier, in Stellenbosch, South Africa. An annual initiative of the autonomous think tank the IBFD Centre for Studies in African Taxation (CSAT), the Africa Tax Symposium offers a platform for ongoing discussion about international tax developments and issues as they relate to Africa. The three-day symposium will provide a world-class original programme covering the most pertinent international tax issues of the day within the African context. Prominent speakers from Africa and around the world will explore recent developments in international taxation, such as the impact of the Multilateral Instrument on bilateral tax treaties within Africa, challenges of the digital economy in an African taxation context, transfer pricing and indirect tax challenges in Africa, global exchange of information and tax transparency in the post-BEPS era, and much more. We look forward to welcoming tax professionals from around the world to engage in a stimulating series of discussions on issues of the utmost importance to both international and African taxation, said Belema Obuoforibo, Director of the IBFD Knowledge Centre. IBFD remains committed to building expertise in the region, and we are excited to share our experience and knowledge in the field of international taxation, with a unique, special focus on Africa. To register and learn more about the topics, speakers and programme, please visit the IBFD website . Our Sponsors: Platinum Sponsor: Bureau van Dijk Gold Sponsor: DLA Piper Silver Sponsor: Africa Industry Tax Association Supported by: Commonwealth Association of Tax Administrators IFA 2022 Annual Conference International Fiscal Association South Africa UCT Tax Unit for Fiscal Research West African Tax Administration Forum Contact information: Sorrel Hidding, Head of Marketing: +31 (0)61-332 5049 or s.hidding@ibfd.org . About IBFD IBFD is a leading international provider of cross-border tax expertise, with a long-standing history of supporting and contributing to tax research and academic activities . As an independent foundation, IBFD utilizes its global network of tax experts and its Knowledge Centre to serve Fortune 500 companies, governments, international consultancy firms and tax advisors. Headquartered in Amsterdam, IBFD has regional offices in Beijing, Washington and Kuala Lumpur. IBFDs Library and Information Centre is widely regarded as the worlds leading research facility in the field of international and comparative taxation. Renowned as the leading expertise portal in the field of cross-border taxation and legislation, IBFDs powerful Tax Research Platform allows tax practitioners around the world to access a wealth of reliable and valuable content, enabling faster and more effective work. IBFDs complete coverage further includes courses , journals and books, and a Masters in International Tax Law (in collaboration with the University of Amsterdam). IBFD also offers government consultancy and individual client research services . About CSAT The Centre for Studies in African Taxation (CSAT) is an integral part of IBFD, an independent non-profit foundation. Consequently, CSAT is fully autonomous. CSATs objectives are to study and provide well-researched opinions on taxation in Africa, encourage research by Africans for Africa and find practical solutions that work within an African context. These objectives serve CSATs goal to improve Africas capacity to collect the tax revenue needed to fund development programmes, run essential services and achieve sustainable economic growth. This goal is in support of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 2015, particularly Goal 17: Revitalize the global partnership for sustainable development. OTTAWA, May 09, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- PANAG Pharma Inc. (PANAG), a wholly owned subsidiary of Tetra Bio-Pharma Inc. ("Tetra" or the "Company") (TSX-V: TBP) (OTCQB: TBPMF), a bio-pharmaceutical company engaged in cannabinoid-based drug discovery and development, is pleased to provide investors with an update on the activities of PANAG including, but not limited, to its innovative and patented formulations for the treatment of uveitis which will enter Phase 2 in late 2019. The acquisition of PANAG and the products at various stages of development, is a perfect fit for Tetras business model by providing a deeper pipeline of products to attract strategic commercial partners to distribute these products in Canada, the USA and around the world. As a result of this acquisition, we have added highly qualified experts in cannabinoid science and medicine as well as a wealth of drug discovery and early phase drug development expertise and experience. Panag and Tetra Bio-Pharma will join forces to achieve noteworthy regulatory and clinical milestones. Our long term looks very promising, the synergies of the two companies may yield attractive returns for our investors said Dr. Guy Chamberland, CEO, CSO of Tetra. The following Panag products will be available to consumers without a prescription from their physician (e.g., natural product section of the pharmacy) and will be made commercially available in late 2019. The following products have already been approved by Health Canada and have received a Natural Product Number: Topical A, a cream for treating osteoarthritis, joint and muscle pain Beta C + Zinc, a gel for the treatment of Cold sores Beta C + Benzocaine a cream to be used in treating hemorrhoids In June 2019, Tetra anticipates completion of Panags Phase 3 type clinical trial (Protocol ID: Panag-001) of its Topical-A pain cream. This study consisted of a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover trial with open label extension evaluating Topical-A against placebo. At the end of the randomized controlled phase of the trial all participants will be given open-label Topical-A to be administered over the subsequent 3 weeks. The Primary Endpoint was the evaluation of improvement in pain interference as measured by the Brief Pain Inventory (BPI) in individuals who are experiencing pain due to osteoarthritis of the knee. The Secondary Endpoints were: Confirmation of safety of the topical cream when used daily over 10 weeks. Further evaluation will include overall patient satisfaction with the products tested. Repurposing Product Candidates Tetra is currently repurposing existing topical products which will benefit from the addition of -caryophyllene (a powerful terpene) and the Multiplexed Molecular Penetration Enhancer ("MMPE"), a patented technology developed by Tetras partner Crescita. The MMPE will provide increased permeability of active ingredients through the skin thereby providing an improved delivery to the therapeutic target (joints & bones, muscles etc.). Milestones (NPN products) Key dates Results of Panag-001 (Topical-A) June 2019 Ongoing negotiations with commercial partners Summer 2019 Launch of two repurposed products (NPN) Q1 2020 The following products are regulated as drugs and, if approved, will be prescribed (Rx) by physicians. A pilot study with PPP-003 ophthalmic drug in the treatment of indolent corneal ulcers in companion animals On May 2, 2019 Panag Pharma announced that its pilot clinical study to evaluate the tolerability and potential efficacy of its PPP003 ophthalmic drug in the treatment of indolent corneal ulcers in companion animals has been authorized by the Veterinary Drugs Directorate (VDD), Health Canada. VDD granted the Experimental Studies Certificate to the veterinary ophthalmologists that will be performing the clinical study for Panag. Repurposing Product Candidates Tetra is also currently repurposing existing topical prescription drug products which will benefit from the addition of -caryophyllene combined again with the Multiplexed Molecular Penetration Enhancer ("MMPE"), a patented technology developed by our partner Crescita. The MMPEO will provide increased permeability of active ingredients through the skin thereby providing improved delivery to the therapeutic target (joints & bones, muscles etc.). Interstitial Cystitis Product Candidate Panag has also developed therapies, along with intellectual property, for the treatment of interstitial cystitis. Tetra plans to start commercializing some of these products in 2020 Milestones (Drug development) Key dates Launch of the Veterinary Pilot Study in indolent corneal ulcers June 2019 Pre-IND Meeting with the FDA on the ophthalmic program June 2019 Launch of the Phase 1 and 2 in Uveitis and Painful Dry Eye Q4 2019 Filing of two repurposed (DIN) products with Health Canada Q4 2019 Medical food approval Interstitial Cystitis Milestone (first generation product) Q1 2020 About Tetra Bio-Pharma: Tetra Bio-Pharma (TSX-V: TBP) (OTCQB: TBPMF) is a biopharmaceutical leader in cannabinoid-based drug discovery and development with a Health Canada authorized, and FDA reviewed, clinical trials aimed at bringing novel prescription drugs and treatments to patients and their healthcare providers. The Company has several subsidiaries engaged in the development of an advanced and growing pipeline of Bio Pharmaceuticals, Natural Health and Veterinary Products containing cannabis and other medicinal plant-based elements. With patients at the core of what we do, Tetra Bio-Pharma is focused on providing rigorous scientific validation and safety data required for inclusion into the existing bio pharma industry by regulators, physicians and insurance companies. For more information visit: www.tetrabiopharma.com Source: Tetra Bio-Pharma About Panag Pharma Panag Pharma Inc. is a Canadian based bio-tech company focused on the development of novel cannabinoid-based formulations for the treatment of pain and inflammation. Panag believes that pain relief should be safe, non-addictive and above all; effective. The Panag Pharma team of PhD scientists and medical doctors are among the worlds leading researchers and clinicians in pain treatment and management. They bring a combined experience of over 100 years in research and clinical care of people dealing with chronic pain and inflammatory conditions. Panags current pipeline of pain relief products include formulations for the topical application to the skin, the eye and other mucous membranes. Recently approved by Health Canada and currently undergoing clinical trials, Panag Pharmas Topical A OTC provides a new approach to the treatment of chronic pain and inflammation. Forward-looking statements Some statements in this release may contain forward-looking information. All statements, other than of historical fact, that address activities, events or developments that the Company believes, expects or anticipates will or may occur in the future (including, without limitation, statements regarding potential acquisitions and financings) are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are generally identifiable by use of the words "may", "will", "should", "continue", "expect", "anticipate", "estimate", "believe", "intend", "plan" or "project" or the negative of these words or other variations on these words or comparable terminology. Forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the Company's ability to control or predict, that may cause the actual results of the Company to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from current expectations include, among other things, without limitation, the inability of the Company to obtain sufficient financing to execute the Company's business plan; competition; regulation and anticipated and unanticipated costs and delays, the success of the Company's research and development strategies, including the success of the products developed by Panag and its other drug candidates, the applicability of the discoveries made therein, the successful and timely completion and uncertainties related to the regulatory process including the applications for Orphan Drug Designation, the timing of clinical trials, the timing and outcomes of regulatory or intellectual property decisions and other risks disclosed in the Company's public disclosure record on file with the relevant securities regulatory authorities. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from those described in forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause results or events not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. Readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements included in this news release are made as of the date of this news release and the Company does not undertake an obligation to publicly update such forward-looking statements to reflect new information, subsequent events or otherwise unless required by applicable securities legislation. Tetra Bio-Pharma Contact: Steeve Neron Senior Vice President Marketing & Medical Affairs. 514-232-2851 Investors@tetrabiopharma.com Investor Contact: Pierre Boucher, CPA, CMA Partner, Executive Vice-President 514-731-000 ext: 237 TORONTO, May 09, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Alamos Gold Inc. (TSX:AGI; NYSE:AGI) (Alamos or the Company) today reported new results from surface and underground exploration and delineation drilling at the Island Gold Mine. Drilling in 2019 continues to extend high-grade gold mineralization across each of the Main, Western, and Eastern Extensions. All reported drill widths are true width of the mineralized zones, unless otherwise stated. Eastern Extension: high-grade mineralization intersected in a previously untested area between the Eastern and Main Extensions, within a 500 metre (m) gap between Inferred Mineral Resource blocks. This area is only 1,000 m from surface and relatively close to existing infrastructure. New highlights include: 46.11 g/t Au (25.81 g/t cut) over 4.67m (MH18-03); This area is only 1,000 m from surface and relatively close to existing infrastructure. New highlights include: Main Extension: high-grade mineralization extended 65 m up-plunge (MH13-5) and 65 m down-plunge (MH17-04) from the nearest previously reported intersections. High-grade mineralization has been extended over 1,000 m east of current mine workings and remains open along strike to the east and both up and down-plunge. New highlights include: 71.17 g/t Au (24.53 g/t cut) over 5.10 m (MH13-5); 40.75 g/t Au (34.01 g/t cut) over 5.15 m (MH17-04); and 30.01 g/t Au (15.13 g/t cut) over 4.96 m (MH12-5). High-grade mineralization has been extended over 1,000 m east of current mine workings and remains open along strike to the east and both up and down-plunge. New highlights include: Note: Drillhole composite intervals reported as cut may include higher grade samples which have been cut to 225 g/t Au for Main and Extension 1 areas, and 160 g/t Au for Extension 2 Area. Drill results continue to demonstrate the tremendous growth potential of the Island Gold deposit across multiple areas of focus. The Main Extension continues to grow and we see excellent potential for this to continue with more than 90% of our exploration drill holes intersecting gold mineralization along the Island Gold Main Zone. We are also particularly excited about the potential between the Main and Eastern Extensions having intersected high-grade mineralization in an area that has seen very little drilling to date. We have started to close the gap between high grade resources in both areas and see excellent potential for this to continue, said John A. McCluskey, President and Chief Executive Officer. 2019 Drilling Program Island Gold Mine The focus of the 2019 exploration drilling program is to continue to expand the down-plunge and lateral extensions of the Island Gold deposit with the objective of adding new near mine Mineral Resources across the two-kilometre long Island Gold Main Zone (Figure 1). The ongoing exploration program at Island Gold has been successful in extending high grade gold mineralization across each of the Main, Western, and Eastern Extensions. This has translated into significant growth in Mineral Reserves and Resources since the November 2017 acquisition of Island Gold as follows (Mineral Reserves and Resources as of December 31, 2018; see press release dated February 19, 2019): Mineral Reserves have increased 467,000 ounces before mining depletion, or 255,000 ounces net of mining depletion, to 1.0 million ounces with Mineral Reserve grades increasing 12% (3.0 million tonnes (mt) grading 10.28 g/t Au) (3.0 million tonnes (mt) grading 10.28 g/t Au) Measured and Indicated Mineral Resources have increased 115%, or 105,000 ounces, to 196,000 ounces with grades increasing 48% (0.7 mt grading 8.77 g/t Au) (0.7 mt grading 8.77 g/t Au) Inferred Mineral Resources have increased 58%, or 577,000 ounces, to 1.6 million ounces with grades increasing 15% (4.2 mt grading 11.71 g/t Au) A total of 29,832 m of drilling in 99 holes has been completed thus far in 2019. This includes 13,992 m of surface directional exploration drilling, 1,119 m of regional exploration drilling, 5,804 m of underground exploration drilling and 8,917 m of underground delineation drilling. New highlight intercepts can be found in Figures 1 to 4 and Tables 1 to 3 at the end of this news release. The 2019 drill program includes 48,000 m of surface directional exploration drilling, 30,000 m of underground exploration drilling, 35,000 m of delineation drilling, and 917 m of exploration drift development. Surface and Underground Exploration Drilling Eastern Extension Surface directional drilling within the Eastern Extension is focused on testing the area down-plunge and to the east of known Inferred Resource blocks, between the 850 m and 1150 m vertical depths, and previously reported high-grade intersections approximately 350 m further to the east (Figure 3). Three drill holes have been completed in this area to date in 2019, with drill hole MH18-03 intersecting 46.11 g/t Au (25.81 g/t cut) over 4.67m. This intersection is 200 m down-plunge from the closest Inferred Mineral Resources in the Eastern Extension, and 300 m vertically above Inferred Mineral Resources defined in the eastern down-plunge extent of the Main Extension. Testing the potential continuity of high-grade mineralization between the Eastern and Main Extensions will be an ongoing focus in 2019 with this area having seen limited drilling to date. Two surface directional diamond drill rigs are active in this area, and will continue with 75 to 100 m spaced step-out drilling. New highlights from the surface drilling program include (E1E-Zone) (Table 1): 46.11 g/t Au (25.81 g/t cut) over 4.67 m (MH18-03); 4.45 g/t Au (4.45 g/t cut) over 10.24 m (MH18-02); and 6.03 g/t Au (6.03 g/t cut) over 3.65 m (MH18-01). Main Extension Surface directional drilling to date in 2019 has been successful in further extending gold mineralization with drill hole spacing ranging from 50 to 100 m (Figure 2). Gold mineralization has now been extended one kilometre to the east of existing mine workings. This east plunging high-grade ore shoot remains open laterally, up and down-plunge. New highlights from the surface and underground exploration drill results include (E1E-Zone) (Tables 1 and 2): 71.17 g/t Au (24.53 g/t cut) over 5.10 m (MH13-5); 40.75 g/t Au (34.01 g/t cut) over 5.15 m (MH17-04); 30.01 g/t Au (15.13 g/t cut) over 4.96 m (MH12-5); 38.42 g/t Au (23.78 g/t cut) over 2.75 m (840-548-11); 17.52 g/t Au (16.97 g/t cut) over 2.81 m (MH17-03); and 12.91 g/t Au (12.91 g/t cut) over 4.57 m (840-548-10). Drill hole MH13-5 (71.17 g/t Au (24.53 g/t cut) over 5.10 m), returned one of the best surface directional intersections to date in the Main Extension and also extended high-grade mineralization 65 m up-plunge from the nearest previously drilled intercept. Drill holes MH17-03 (17.52 g/t Au (16.97 g/t cut) over 2.81m) and MH17-04 (40.75 g/t Au (34.01 g/t cut) over 5.15 m) extended high-grade gold mineralization 50 m further to the east of the nearest previously drilled intercepts, MH13 (118.58 g/t Au (53.51 g/t cut) over 6.66 m) and MH17-01 (56.60 g/t Au (50.87 g/t cut) over 5.66 m). Drill hole MH17-05, drilled a further 50 m to the east of MH17-03 and MH17-04, also intersected gold mineralization (2.25 g/t Au over 6.72 m) within the same zone. Despite the lower grades, visible gold associated with quartz veining was observed in this interval, confirming presence of gold mineralization another 50 m further to the east. The 2019 exploration program will continue to focus on further extending high-grade mineralization with the objective of defining additional Mineral Resources in this area. Underground exploration drilling has also commenced from the 840 level exploration drift with the objective of testing the area between the Main Extension Inferred Mineral Resources and the Eastern Extension Mineral Reserve and Resource blocks above. Three surface directional diamond drill rigs remain active in the Main Extension target area. Western Extension Surface drilling in the Western Extension area (Figure 4) has continued to extend high-grade mineralization laterally and down-plunge from existing Inferred Mineral Resources. Drill hole MH16-04 intersected 5.14 g/t Au (5.14 g/t cut) over 5.28 m, extending mineralization an additional 75 m from previously reported drill hole MH16-03 (152.07 g/t Au (35.74 g/t cut) over 5.00m). One surface directional diamond drill rig is active in this area. In addition, underground exploration drilling commenced from the 450 diamond drill bay in the main ramp and was successful in extending high-grade gold mineralization 50 m to the west of the existing Mineral Reserves. Highlights from the new surface and underground drill results include (C-Zone) (Tables 1 and 2): 31.62 g/t Au (31.62 g/t cut) over 3.22 m (450-467-85); 10.43 g/t Au (10.43 g/t cut) over 3.34 m (450-467-86); and 5.14 g/t Au (5.14 g/t cut) over 5.28 m (MH16-04). Underground Delineation Drilling Underground delineation drilling is also being carried out from the 450 drill bay and from the 580 and 840 levels, with the focus on converting Inferred Mineral Resources to Indicated Mineral Resources. New highlight drill intercepts include (Table 3): 38.99 g/t Au (24.86 g/t cut) over 3.60 m (840-548-18); 35.61 g/t Au (29.75 g/t cut) over 3.31 m (840-548-03); 22.57 g/t Au (18.74 g/t cut) over 4.56 m (840-542-60); 22.44 g/t Au (22.44 g/t cut) over 4.55 m (840-548-05); 37.59 g/t Au (37.59 g/t cut) over 2.21 m (580-473-07); 13.00 g/t Au (9.60 g/t cut) over 6.38 m (840-542-61); 13.38 g/t Au (13.38 g/t cut) over 5.35 m (840-548-14); 4.88 g/t Au (4.88 g/t cut) over 7.92 m (840-542-63); 16.11 g/t Au (16.11 g/t cut) over 2.18 m (580-473-13); and 11.31 g/t Au (11.31 g/t cut) over 3.09 m (840-548-02). The results from the infill delineation drilling within existing Inferred Mineral Resource blocks continue to confirm the continuity of the high-grade gold mineralization and are expected to support the conversion of the Mineral Resources to Mineral Reserves in these areas. Other Zones The Island Gold Deposit consists of a number of subparallel mineralized zones, with the majority of Mineral Reserves and Resources being defined in the C Zone and E1E Zones which constitutes the main production horizons at the Island Gold mine. Highlights of new intersections in parallel zones and zones in which the lateral continuity is not yet established (Unknown Zone) include (Tables 1, 2 and 3): 29.13 g/t Au (29.13 g/t cut) over 2.80 m (MH17-04); 27.07 g/t Au (27.07 g/t cut) over 2.40 m (MH17-03); 17.56 g/t Au (17.56 g/t cut) over 2.50 m (840-548-14); and 12.38 g/t Au (12.38 g/t cut) over 2.60 m (840-548-01). Note: Reported composite intervals are core lengths Additional drilling will be required to further evaluate these high-grade intersections and their potential in both the footwall and hanging wall of the main C and E1E Zones. Surface Regional Exploration Drilling As part of the 2018 regional exploration drilling program, two drill holes were started late in 2018 and completed in 2019. This included drill hole AR-415-04 which intersected 9.31 g/t over 3.31 m, approximately 250 m west from the most westernly Inferred Mineral Resource block of the Island Gold Deposit. This gold-bearing structure has similar alteration and mineralization that is associated with gold mineralization at the Island Gold Mine within the Goudreau Deformation Zone. Qualified Persons Chris Bostwick, FAusIMM, Alamos Golds Vice President, Technical Services, has reviewed and approved the scientific and technical information contained in this news release. Chris Bostwick is a Qualified Person within the meaning of Canadian Securities Administrators National Instrument 43-101 (NI 43-101). Exploration programs at the Island Gold Mine are directed by Raynald Vincent, P.Eng., M.G.P., Chief Geologist at the Island Gold Mine and a Qualified Person within the meaning of NI 43-101. Quality Control Assays for the delineation and exploration drilling were completed at LabExpert in Rouyn-Noranda, Quebec. The Corporation inserts at regular intervals quality control (QC) samples (blanks and reference materials) to monitor laboratory performance. Cross check assays are done on a regular basis in a second accredited laboratory. The Quality Assurance / Quality Control procedures are more completely described in the Technical Report filed on SEDAR by Richmont Mines, July 13, 2017. Upcoming Catalysts and News Flow Q2 2019 Young-Davidson and Island Gold Site Tours Mid-2019 Lynn Lake Optimization Study H2 2019 La Yaqui Grande EIA Approval H2 2019 Cerro Pelon Construction Update H2 2019 Kirazl Construction Update H2 2019 Island Gold Phase II Expansion Permit About Alamos Alamos is a Canadian-based intermediate gold producer with diversified production from four operating mines in North America. This includes the Young-Davidson and Island Gold mines in northern Ontario, Canada and the Mulatos and El Chanate mines in Sonora State, Mexico. Additionally, the Company has a significant portfolio of development stage projects in Canada, Mexico, Turkey, and the United States. Alamos employs more than 1,700 people and is committed to the highest standards of sustainable development. The Companys shares are traded on the TSX and NYSE under the symbol AGI. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT: Scott K. Parsons Vice President, Investor Relations (416) 368-9932 x 5439 All amounts are in United States dollars, unless otherwise stated. The TSX and NYSE have not reviewed and do not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Cautionary Note This news release includes certain statements that constitute forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian and U.S. securities laws ("forward-looking statements"). All statements in this news release, other than statements of historical fact, which address events, results, outcomes or developments that Alamos expects to occur are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are generally, but not always, identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "expects", believe", "anticipate", "plan",, forecast, "estimate", "intend", budget or potential or variations of such words and phrases and similar expressions or statements that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved or the negative connotation of such terms. Forward-looking statements in this news release include the statements with respect to planned exploration programs, costs and expenditures, changes in Mineral Resources and conversion of Mineral Resources to Proven and Probable Mineral Reserves, and other information that is based on forecasts and projections of future operational, geological or financial results, estimates of amounts not yet determinable and assumptions of management. Exploration results that include geophysics, sampling, and drill results on wide spacings may not be indicative of the occurrence of a mineral deposit. Such results do not provide assurance that further work will establish sufficient grade, continuity, metallurgical characteristics and economic potential to be classed as a category of Mineral Resource. A Mineral Resource that is classified as "Inferred" or "Indicated" has a great amount of uncertainty as to its existence and economic and legal feasibility. It cannot be assumed that any or part of an "Indicated Mineral Resource" or "Inferred Mineral Resource" will ever be upgraded to a higher category of Mineral Resource. Investors are cautioned not to assume that all or any part of mineral deposits in these categories will ever be converted into Proven and Probable Mineral Reserves. Alamos cautions readers not to place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements which are not guarantees of future events as a number of factors could cause results, conditions, actions or events to differ materially from the targets, outlooks, expectations, goals, estimates or intentions expressed in the forward-looking statements. These factors include, but are not limited to: risks related to obtaining and maintaining necessary permits, licenses and authorizations required to carry out planned exploration or development work, the actual results of current exploration activities, conclusions of economic and geological evaluations, changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined, employee and community relations,the speculative nature of mineral exploration and development, contests over title to properties, changes in national and local government legislation, control and regulations and and fluctuations of the price of gold and foreign exchange rates as well as those factors discussed in the section entitled "Risk Factors" in Alamos' latest Annual Information Form and MD&A, each under the heading Risk Factors, available on the SEDAR website at www.sedar.com or on EDGAR at www.sec.gov. The foregoing should be reviewed in conjunction with the information found in this news release. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether written or oral, or whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable law. All of the forward-looking statements made in this news release are qualified by these cautionary statements. Cautionary Note to U.S. Investors Mineral Reserve and Resource Estimates All Mineral Resource and Reserve estimates included in this news release or documents referenced in this news release have been prepared in accordance with Canadian National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects ("NI 43-101") and the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum (the "CIM") - CIM Definition Standards on Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves, adopted by the CIM Council, as amended (the "CIM Standards"). NI 43-101 is a rule developed by the Canadian Securities Administrators, which established standards for all public disclosure an issuer makes of scientific and technical information concerning mineral projects. The terms "Mineral Reserve", "Proven Mineral Reserve" and "Probable Mineral Reserve" are Canadian mining terms as defined in accordance with NI 43-101 and the CIM Standards. These definitions differ materially from the definitions in the Securities Exchange Commission (the SEC) Industry Guide 7 ("SEC Industry Guide 7") under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and the Exchange Act. Under SEC Industry Guide 7 standards, a "final" or "bankable" feasibility study is required to report reserves, the three-year historical average price is used in any reserve or cash flow analysis to designate reserves and the primary environmental analysis or report must be filed with the appropriate governmental authority. In addition, the terms "Mineral Resource", "Measured Mineral Resource", "Indicated Mineral Resource" and "Inferred Mineral Resource" are defined in and required to be disclosed by NI 43-101 and the CIM Standards; however, these terms are not defined terms under SEC Industry Guide 7 and are normally not permitted to be used in reports and registration statements filed with the U.S. SEC. Investors are cautioned not to assume that all or any part of mineral deposits in these categories will ever be converted into Mineral Reserves. "Inferred Mineral Resources" have a great amount of uncertainty as to their existence, and great uncertainty as to their economic and legal feasibility. It cannot be assumed that all or any part of an Inferred Mineral Resource will ever be upgraded to a higher category. Under Canadian rules, estimates of Inferred Mineral Resources may not form the basis of feasibility or pre-feasibility studies, except in very limited circumstances. Investors are cautioned not to assume that all or any part of an Inferred Mineral Resource exists or is economically or legally mineable. Disclosure of "contained ounces" in a Mineral Resource is permitted disclosure under Canadian regulations; however, the SEC normally only permits issuers to report mineralization that does not constitute "reserves" by SEC standards as in place tonnage and grade without reference to unit measures. Table 1: Island Gold Previously Unreleased Select Composite Intervals from Surface Exploration Drilling Composite intervals greater than 3 g/t Au weighted average, capping values: Main Island and Extension 1 areas @ 225 g/t Au; Extension 2 Area @ 160 g/t Au Hole ID Zone Target Area From (m) To (m) Core Length (m) True Width (m) Au Uncut (g/t) Au Cut (g/t) Vertical Depth (m) MH12-5 E1E Main Ext 1517.40 1523.40 6.00 4.96 30.01 15.13 1367 MH13-4 E1E Main Ext 1515.10 1517.70 2.60 2.55 9.89 9.89 1300 MH13-5 E1E Main Ext 1518.50 1523.60 5.10 5.10 71.17 24.53 1277 MH14-6 E1E Main Ext 1520.20 1532.80 12.60 10.52 3.85 3.85 1380 MH17-03 E1E Main Ext 1545.90 1549.00 3.10 2.81 17.52 16.97 1313 MH17-04 E1E Main Ext 1569.10 1575.40 6.30 5.15 40.75 34.01 1384 MH17-05 G Main Ext 1492.60 1495.60 3.00 2.90 7.58 7.58 1288 MH18-01 E1E Eastern Ext 1086.20 1090.70 4.50 3.65 6.03 6.03 956 MH18-02 E1E Eastern Ext 1127.50 1140.90 13.40 10.24 4.45 4.45 1025 MH18-03 E1E Eastern Ext 1107.70 1113.80 6.10 4.67 46.11 25.81 991 AR-415-04 C Western Ext 833.70 838.30 4.60 3.31 9.31 9.31 689 MH16-03 G1 Western Ext 1398.10 1404.00 5.90 4.44 16.22 16.22 1252 MH16-04 G Western Ext 1478.99 1484.34 5.35 4.40 7.28 7.28 1338 MH16-04 C Western Ext 1498.50 1504.90 6.40 5.28 5.14 5.14 1355 MH16-05 C Western Ext 1458.10 1461.25 3.15 2.62 4.07 4.07 1294 MH13-3 Unknown Main Ext 1592.50 1593.20 0.70 25.69 25.69 1413 MH17-03 Unknown Main Ext 1624.00 1629.50 5.50 3.40 3.40 1377 MH17-03 Unknown Main Ext 1653.00 1655.40 2.40 27.07 27.07 1400 MH17-04 Unknown Main Ext 1595.20 1598.00 2.80 29.13 29.13 1406 MH16-01 Unknown Western Ext 1175.00 1179.50 4.50 5.89 5.89 1036 MH16-02 Unknown Western Ext 1221.50 1224.60 3.10 9.55 9.55 1082 MH16-02 Unknown Western Ext 1299.00 1300.70 1.70 12.46 12.46 1142 Note: Unknown zone corresponds to gold intercepts outside known ore zones and for which continuity is not yet established and therefore true width has not been calculated. Table 2: Island Gold Previously Unreleased Select Composite Intervals from Underground Exploration Drilling Composite intervals greater than 3 g/t Au weighted average, capping values: Main Island and Extension 1 areas @ 225 g/t Au; Extension 2 Area @ 160 g/t Au Hole ID Zone Target Area From (m) To (m) Core Length (m) True Width (m) Au Uncut (g/t) Au Cut (g/t) Vertical Depth (m) 450-467-85 C Western Ext 199.80 203.85 4.05 3.22 31.62 31.62 503 450-467-86 C Western Ext 188.00 192.00 4.00 3.34 10.43 10.43 485 840-548-06 E1E Main Ext 178.20 181.60 3.40 2.69 3.42 3.42 902 840-548-10 E1E Main Ext 159.80 164.80 5.00 4.57 12.91 12.91 871 840-548-11 E1E Main Ext 265.90 270.55 4.65 2.75 38.42 23.78 1030 840-548-16 E1E Main Ext 244.00 246.70 2.70 2.02 8.73 8.73 1004 840-548-20 E1E Main Ext 149.00 151.30 2.30 2.08 3.67 3.67 851 840-548-01 Unknown Main Ext 81.80 84.40 2.60 12.38 12.38 899 Note: Unknown zone corresponds to gold intercepts outside known ore zones and for which continuity is not yet established and therefore true width has not been calculated. Table 3: Island Gold Previously Unreleased Select Composite Intervals from Underground Delineation Drilling Composite intervals greater than 3 g/t Au weighted average, capping values: Main Island and Extension 1 areas @ 225 g/t Au; Extension 2 Area @ 160 g/t Au Hole ID Zone Target Area From (m) To (m) Core Length (m) True Width (m) Au Uncut (g/t) Au Cut (g/t) Vertical Depth (m) 840-542-60 E1E Main Ext 303.92 315.00 11.08 4.56 22.57 18.74 1080 840-542-61 E1E Main Ext 301.00 314.20 13.20 6.38 13.00 9.60 1085 840-542-63 E1E Main Ext 285.00 300.50 15.50 7.92 4.88 4.88 1066 840-548-02 E1E Main Ext 233.80 238.30 4.50 3.09 11.31 11.31 986 840-548-03 E1E Main Ext 225.60 230.20 4.60 3.31 35.61 29.75 973 840-548-04 E1E Main Ext 209.00 212.30 3.30 2.40 7.32 7.32 946 840-548-05 E1E Main Ext 195.00 200.80 5.80 4.55 22.44 22.44 925 840-548-13 E1E Main Ext 214.00 218.65 4.65 3.28 8.67 8.67 954 840-548-14 E1E Main Ext 198.12 205.83 7.71 5.35 13.38 13.38 933 840-548-17 E1E Main Ext 234.70 237.70 3.00 2.10 8.30 8.30 979 840-548-18 E1E Main Ext 222.25 227.50 5.25 3.60 38.99 24.86 957 450-467-87 C Western Ext 188.55 192.50 3.95 3.29 3.44 3.44 505 580-473-07 C Western Ext 68.70 71.45 2.75 2.21 37.59 37.59 539 580-473-13 C Western Ext 58.60 61.00 2.40 2.18 16.11 16.11 546 450-467-64 D1 Western Ext 209.15 211.93 2.78 1.79 5.45 5.45 569 840-548-04 Unknown Main Ext 94.50 97.50 3.00 6.76 6.76 891 840-548-14 Unknown Main Ext 100.44 102.94 2.50 17.56 17.56 890 450-467-87 Unknown Western Ext 202.00 204.42 2.42 10.02 10.02 508 Note: Unknown zone corresponds to gold intercepts outside known ore zones and for which continuity is not yet established and therefore true width has not been calculated. Table 4: Surface exploration drill holes; azimuth, dip, drilled length, and collar location at surface (UTM NAD83) Hole ID Azimuth () Dip () Drilled Length (m) UTM Easting UTM Northing UTM Elevation (m) Comments AR-415-01 5 -69 1100 689995 5350898 386 AR-415-02 337 -66 1046 689995 5350898 386 AR-415-03 319 -70 1142 689994 5350897 385 AR-415-04 356 -60 1127 689995 5350898 386 MH12-4 337 -70 888 691310 5350975 394 Cut from MH12-3 at 968m MH12-5 337 -70 579 691310 5350975 394 Cut from MH12-4 at 1070m MH12-6 337 -70 837 691522 5351123 394 Cut from MH12-5 at 1025m MH13-3 337 -72 688 692074 5351046 389 Cut from MH13-1 at 1051m MH13-4 337 -72 685 692074 5351046 389 Cut from MH13-1 at 979m MH13-5 336 -72 688 692074 5351046 389 Cut from MH13-4 at 961m MH14-3 338 -85 932 691522 5351123 394 Cut from MH14-1 at 852m MH14-4 228 -85 808 691522 5351123 394 Cut from MH14-3 at 880m MH14-6 3 -68 1422 691522 5351123 394 Cut from MH14 at 209m MH16-01 337 -73 1584 691002 5350845 387 MH16-02 337 -73 656 691002 5350845 387 Cut from MH16-01 at 936m MH16-03 337 -73 579 691002 5350845 387 Cut from MH16-02 at 980m MH16-04 337 -73 827 691002 5350845 387 Cut from MH16-03 at 828m MH16-05 337 -73 1087 691002 5350845 387 Cut from MH16-01 at 517m MH17-03 334 -73 924 692320 5351076 395 Cut from MH17-02 at 884m MH17-04 334 -73 767 692320 5351076 395 Cut from MH17-03 at 959m MH17-05 334 -73 966 692320 5351076 395 Cut from MH17-01 at 839m MH18-01 339 -75 1259 691886 5351456 400 MH18-02 339 -75 741 691886 5351456 400 Cut from MH18-01 at 666m MH18-03 339 -75 732 691886 5351456 400 Cut from MH18-02 at 539m Note: UTM mine surface elevation 382 m Table 5: Underground drill holes; azimuth, dip, drilled length, and collar location (UTM NAD83) Hole ID Azimuth () Dip () Drilled Length (m) UTM Easting UTM Northing UTM Elevation (m) 450-467-59 148 -27 255 690222 5351667 -70 450-467-64 144 -36 306 690224 5351667 -70 450-467-84 200 -21 249 690221 5351667 -70 450-467-85 200 -16 241 690221 5351667 -70 450-467-86 198 -11 222 690222 5351667 -70 450-467-87 195 -18 228 690222 5351667 -70 450-467-88 192 -21 263 690222 5351667 -70 450-467-90 194 -2 207 690222 5351667 -69 580-473-04 210 11 90 690327 5351562 -202 580-473-07 206 38 87 690327 5351562 -200 580-473-13 188 37 72 690328 5351562 -200 620-543-72 158 11 156 690967 5351872 -226 635-521-05 144 8 90 690801 5351699 -267 635-521-06 143 28 90 690801 5351699 -266 635-521-07 137 45 96 690801 5351699 -265 840-542-51 171 -34 246 690972 5351831 -466 840-542-59 166 -47 318 690972 5351831 -466 840-542-60 152 -47 330 690972 5351831 -466 840-542-61 173 -49 369 690972 5351831 -466 840-542-62 149 -50 375 690972 5351831 -466 840-542-63 172 -48 360 690972 5351831 -466 840-548-01 162 -39 282 691029 5351853 -464 840-548-02 162 -36 270 691029 5351853 -464 840-548-03 162 -34 252 691029 5351853 -464 840-548-04 164 -28 240 691029 5351853 -464 840-548-05 162 -24 225 691029 5351853 -464 840-548-06 162 -18 210 691029 5351853 -464 840-548-09 160 -47 345 691029 5351853 -464 840-548-10 160 -9 189 691029 5351853 -464 840-548-11 157 -43 312 691029 5351853 -464 840-548-13 157 -32 234 691029 5351853 -464 840-548-14 156 -27 234 691029 5351853 -464 840-548-15 157 7 180 691029 5351853 -464 840-548-16 151 -38 282 691029 5351853 -464 840-548-17 151 -34 270 691029 5351853 -464 840-548-18 151 -30 252 691029 5351853 -464 840-548-20 149 -2 192 691029 5351853 -464 840-548-21 149 21 210 691029 5351853 -464 Note: UTM mine surface elevation 382 m Figures accompanying this announcement are available at http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/0100417f-f958-43c1-ae49-ab26eb0043e3 http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/5fe9df96-1b1e-4bad-81f6-c8405556b7db http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/5253321e-383d-4374-b7be-e25f06936ee6 http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/007caf35-943a-446d-99fa-df915d31ddcb DENVER, CO, May 09, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- via NEWMEDIAWIRE -- American Cannabis Company, Inc. (OTCQB: AMMJ) (ACC), a full-service business-to-business cannabis and hemp consulting solutions provider, wishes to provide the general public with an overall update on the companys progress and recent activities. Current Work ACC is working on a multitude of active projects, completing various deliverables for clients across Arkansas, Michigan, Oklahoma, Missouri, California, Florida, Massachusetts and Colorado. From deploying a vertically integrated operation in Denver, Colorado, to assisting clients in Oklahoma and Massachusetts in opening retail cannabis operations, ACC is spending a significant amount of time in other markets, boots on the ground, as the company serves to help the cannabis industry expand its reaches. The company has also taken on international work in Macedonia, where it has been retained to complete conceptual design activities for a cannabis cultivation and processing facility, and is currently exploring new opportunities in South Africa, Bahrain, and Turkey. Staying on the Cutting Edge In 2018, ACC took on multiple contracts that exchanged lower-cost deliverables to clients, for variable equity interests across the country. The company is continuing to offer this option which should, in the long-term, increase revenues and shareholder value. The overall goal and mission for ACC is to continue to stay on the cutting edge of the industry. It has been a fast-paced year for ACC thus far, and the company anticipates taking on more business while scaling up its respective divisions organically. Recently, the company has decided to license the American Cannabis Company brand to qualified groups that share the same goals and business interests. Here, ACC has come up with a retail brick-and-mortar storefront concept that is replicable in various store settings across the country. The company is currently seeking qualified groups or individuals who wish to operate under the ACC brand. When such relationships are secured, it not only serves the new markets as cities look to existing brands with industry tenure and experience, it also will serve to widen overall brand awareness for American Cannabis Company as a whole, further increasing overall brand value, and aiding the company to exist as a long-term player in the cannabis industry worldwide. ACC is continually analyzing various strategic acquisitions as it looks to both diversify and expand its brand. While the company continues to seek these opportunities, the team is excited about Colorado HB 19-1090, a bill that has been produced that will allow for publicly traded entities such as ACC to have the ability to own cannabis licenses within the State. Owning cannabis licenses will give the company the opportunity to not only operate dispensaries, cultivation, and extraction facilities, but also to do business as American Cannabis Company, Inc. With regard to the ACCs product line and suite of services, the company remains a leader on the cutting edge of innovation. From disruptive technology that will serve to significantly impact the cannabis cultivation community, to germplasm indexing and state-of-the-art plant tissue culture and micropropagation lab build-out services, ACC is working on a rollout of new products and services throughout the year. Dr. Mitch Day, lead scientist for ACC, commented: Micropropagation is a fundamental method that needs to be part of any sophisticated cannabis breeding operation. With it, you can propagate large numbers of valuable, disease-free plants. Micropropagation also makes it cheaper to keep a larger variety of genetic backgrounds for use in breeding programs. Im grateful for the chance to pursue my passion for plants by helping to implement large-scale micropropagation for our clients. Dr. Day will be speaking about micropropagation on May 23, 2019, at the 7th Annual Indoor Ag-Con inside the Red Rocks Resort located in Las Vegas, Nevada. The company also recently unveiled facility on-site, and remote operational management services, to cannabis business operators seeking assistance with the general oversight to improve underperforming assets. ACC has taken on a number of management contracts since rolling out this service, and currently, the company is working to actively deploy dispensary operations in Oklahoma, Colorado, and Massachusetts. American Hemp Services Division With the passing of the 2018 Farm Bill the company proudly rolled out American Hemp Services, a new division that focuses specifically on industrial hemp consultation. American Hemp Services is dynamically geared toward farmers and agricultural enthusiasts who seek assistance in the design, development and/or deployment of industrial hemp operations across North America and around the globe. Having multiple contracts for these types of services already executed, the company has received tremendous attention from people looking to break into the expansive industrial hemp space. In conjunction with its industrial hemp services, American Hemp Services will be working with the University of Alabamas Department of Biological Sciences and other universities to further hemp research and develop industrial hemp testing protocols to study cultivar quality standards and overall state compliance. Jon Workman, Vice President of Hemp Business Development, commented: Ever since the Farm Bill passed, our offices have been busy taking on new contracts all over the country. From business plan creation and financial modeling, all the way to full-scale farm design, roll-out and deployment, our company has been hard at work re-shaping American agriculture. We are looking forward to the future of hemp. Strategic Alliances & Partnerships ACC has also been vetting various partnership and strategic alliance opportunities. In 2018, ACC secured a strategic partner for architectural and MEP (mechanical, electrical, plumbing) engineering services. ACC has also secured a relationship with a firm that specializes in cannabis extraction equipment, facility design, and formulation development. These extraction professionals provide both scientific and cannabis-specified expertise to assist in producing quality state license application materials, standard operating procedures and commercial grade facility design. As the industry progresses it will be key to have facilities built out to accommodate Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) regulations as well as satisfy stipulations required to uphold best practices related to the International Organization of Standardization (ISO). Further, ACC has aligned itself with a major branding and digital marketing company. This alignment adds an entirely new arm of service offerings for the company to present to its clients, as this digital marketing firm covers a range of services, including but not limited to website design, graphic design, social media management, search engine optimization, targeted advertising, reputation management, and app development. Additionally, ACC is having this digital marketing firm create brand new websites, for both the ACC brand and its propriety just add water potting mix, SoHum Living Soils. Tyler Schloesser, Chief Operating Officer of American Cannabis Company, commented: We are excited to be engaged with our clients. As a company that provides top-tier, end-to-end consulting solutions for the regulated cannabis markets, we have been exposed to many aspects of the industry that others do not see with such transparency. Throughout 2018 the team worked hard to secure several new contracts, vendor relationships, and strategic partnerships. These new relationships have helped us to secure additional revenues as we have found several means of scaling up our business to suit the growing needs of our clients and this ever-expanding industry. Furthermore, our decision to license our brand to existing clients and qualified partners has been a real game changer. Terry Buffalo, American Cannabis Companys Principal Executive Officer, commented: We are excited about 2019 and the future of the company. We have been able to secure multiple licensing partnerships and will continue to exploit this industrys evolving landscape. Licensing our brand has given us the ability to expand our footprint in such a way that will put our name at the forefront of the industry. We have spent a lot of time, money and energy in building the American Cannabis Company brand and this value will be seen by the various groups that we choose to work with as we look to build branded retail dispensaries coast to coast. About American Cannabis Company, Inc. American Cannabis Company, Inc. offers end-to-end solutions to existing and aspiring participants in the cannabis and hemp industries. We utilize our industry expertise to provide business planning and market assessment services, assist state licensing procurement, create business infrastructure and operational best practices. We aim to continue to grow the Company by taking equity positions in client projects, licensing the American Cannabis Company brand, as well as analyze acquisition opportunities worldwide. American Cannabis Company also developed and owns a portfolio of branded products including: SoHum Living Soils - Winner of the 2017 High Times S.T.A.S.H Award for Best Potting Mix, The Cultivation Cube and the High-Density Cultivation System. We also design and provide other industry-specific custom product solutions. For more information, please visit: www.americancannabisconsulting.com www.americancannabiscompanyinc.com www.sohumsoils.com www.americanhempservices.com For Information on Dr. Mitch Day and the 7th Annual Indoor Ag-Con, please visit: https://indoor.ag/2019/03/dr-mitch-day-american-cannabis-consulting/ https://indoor.ag/lasvegas/las-vegas-2019-schedule-sessions/ https://indoor.ag/ Forward Looking Statements This news release contains "forward-looking statements" which are not purely historical and may include any statements regarding beliefs, plans, expectations or intentions regarding the future. Such forward-looking statements include, among other things, the development, costs and results of new business opportunities and words such as "anticipate", "seek", intend", "believe", "estimate", "expect", "project", "plan", or similar phrases may be deemed "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Actual results could differ from those projected in any forward-looking statements due to numerous factors. Such factors include, among others, the inherent uncertainties associated with new projects, the future U.S. and global economies, the impact of competition, and the Company's reliance on existing regulations regarding the use and development of cannabis-based drugs. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this news release, and we assume no obligation to update the forward-looking statements, or to update the reasons why actual results could differ from those projected in the forward-looking statements. Although we believe that any beliefs, plans, expectations, and intentions contained in this press release are reasonable, there can be no assurance that any such beliefs, plans, expectations or intentions will prove to be accurate. Investors should consult all of the information set forth herein and should also refer to the risk factors disclosure outlined in our annual report on Form 10-K for the most recent fiscal year, our quarterly reports on Form 10-Q and other periodic reports filed from time-to-time with the Securities and Exchange Commission. For more information, please visit www.sec.gov. COSTA MESA, Calif., May 09, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- via OTC PR WIRE -- Sipp Industries, Inc. (OTC: SIPC), a multifaceted corporation specializing in manufacturing and distribution of commercial and consumer products, and the first publicly traded company in America whose primary focus is the production and sales of hemp-infused beer, announces Hy-Vee Supermarkets (Hy-Vee) are now carrying Major Hemp HIPA in select locations in Iowa, with plans to quickly expand to additional stores over the coming weeks. Hy-Vee was founded in 1930 as a single general supply store during the Great Depression. Despite its inauspicious beginnings, it has grown tremendously into a thriving supermarket chain encompassing 245 supermarkets throughout the states of Iowa, Illinois, Kansas, Minnesota, Nebraska, South Dakota and Wisconsin. Hy-Vee currently has 85,000 employees and generates more than $10 billion in annual sales. The largest Hy-Vee stores include full-service bakeries, delicatessens, pharmacies, dine-in food service, liquor and beer. Many other stores maintain fuel states with convenience stores carrying beverages. Launched in November 2018, Major Hemp HIPAs formulation includes hemp seed powder, which is essentially free of both THC and CBD. In December 2018, immediately following the passage of the Agriculture Act of 2018, known commonly as the 2018 Farm Bill, which federally legalized hemp and hemp-derived CBD, the FDA certified hemp seed powder as Generally Regarded As Safe (GRAS), formally legalizing its use in the food supply. The FDA is currently evaluating the permission of hemp-derived CBD into food and beverages. President Ted Jorgensen of wholly-owned subsidiary, Major Hemp, stated, I am extremely proud of our beer being placed at Hy-Vee. There is a tremendous opportunity for Major Hemp HIPA to be placed at each of their 245 store locations. Mahaska has been doing a fantastic job with distribution and official entry into Hy-Vee will only open more opportunities throughout the Midwest with larger retail customers. The Company also reports that Major Hemp HIPA has nearly sold out of inventory with the first placements of Major Hemp HIPA at Tonys Finer Foods (Tonys). In tandem with distributor B&D Syndicate, the Company is working on replenishing supply to the 15 Tonys stores in the greater Chicago market heading into the busy Summer beer drinking season. In addition, Major Hemp HIPA has been reordered after initial test store placements including Marianos and 7-Eleven. Chief Executive Officer, Syman Vong commented, Major Hemp HIPA has sold extremely well in pubs, restaurants and liquor chains such as Binnys Beverage Depot. The addition of larger supermarket chains such as Hy-Vee and Tonys are a central part of our growth plans and were thrilled to be making such rapid progress with these notable customers. Sipp Industries also announces an important update to shareholders on the progress of its submitted CBD-infused beer recipe. This past week, the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax & Trade Bureau (TTB) provided additional instructions for submission of regulatory documents to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The Company is actively working with the FDA to provide all necessary information to gain official recipe approval. About Sipp Industries, Inc.: Sipp Industries is a multifaceted corporation that specializes in manufacturing and distribution of commercial and consumer products, and the first publicly traded company in America whose primary focus is the production and sales of hemp-infused beer. Through its wholly owned subsidiary, Major Hemp, the Company provides hemp beer, high quality and competitively priced hemp-based products, bulk hemp and CBD supply. Website: http://www.sippindustries.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SippIndustries Twitter: @SippIndustries Forward Looking Statements: This release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27a of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended and section 21e of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Those statements include the intent, belief or current expectations of the Company and its management team. Forward-looking statements are projections of events, revenues, income, future economics, research, development, reformulation, product performance or managements plans and objectives for future operations. Some or all of the events or results anticipated by these forward-looking statements may not occur. Prospective investors are cautioned that any such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks and uncertainties, and that actual results may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements as a result of various factors. Accomplishing the strategy described herein is significantly dependent upon numerous factors, many that are not in managements control. Contact: LAS VEGAS, May 09, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Players Network, Inc. (OTCQB: PNTV ), soon to be re-named Green Leaf Farms International, Inc., announced today that its CEO, Mark Bradley, has been asked to speak at the Las Vegas Money Show on May 14th. Mr. Bradley, a recognized cannabis industry expert, has agreed to speak on Cannabis as a Commodity and Investing in South America. Mr. Bradley will discuss the unique investment opportunities being created as cannabis becomes a world-wide commodity market and how the industry has begun to disrupt other unlikely major industries. For the first time, he will expose to the public the how and why of PNTVs recently completed Joint Venture with the Argentine government establishing Green Leaf Farms Jujuy Province, Argentina . Believed to be the industrys first Joint Venture between a company and governmental entity, this joint venture is truly a next-generation, game changing move in the growth of the cannabis industry. As will be discussed, it provides PNTV unique opportunities, not just in South America, but worldwide. The presentation is scheduled for 2:30 pm PDT and will be streamed live for attendees who cannot be at the live presentation. Sign up here to watch the live stream . Per Mr. Bradley, As the worldwide legal cannabis industry grows, the broad array of nutrition, health, and medical products being developed by billion-dollar companies will create a huge demand for cannabinoid compounds as well as products that are surprisingly disrupting other major billion-dollar industries. Our Argentina Joint Venture has allocated land for a substantial scalable outdoor cannabis plantation with year-round growing conditions. This puts PNTV in the enviable position of being able to supply commodity quantities of cannabinoid compound ingredients at a price unmatched anywhere in the world which will be discussed in the live and streamed presentation Following his presentation, Mr. Bradley has also agreed to participate in the final event of the day, an in-depth panel discussion: Cannabis Value Chain: Products, Cultivation, Extraction. This panel will provide investors an understanding of the supply chain and how products are developed from 'seed to sale. The panel will begin at 3:00 pm PDT and will also be live streamed. Sign up here to watch the live stream . For interest in attending the Las Vegas Money Show and meeting Mr. Bradley in person please sign up here to attend . PNTV published their updated Investor Presentation which explains their business model and plan to increase shareholder value. To view the and download the Investor Presentation , please visit https://playersnetwork.com/investor-presentation . ACTIVATE YOUR SHAREHOLDER ACCOUNT TODAY! Visit www.PlayersNetwork.com/IR to Activate Your Shareholder Account now. About Players Network (stock symbol PNTV) Players Network is a rapidly growing company in the marijuana industry with licensed grow operations in Las Vegas, Nevada and Jujuy, Argentina. Over the last 12 months, the Company has gone from a development stage company to a fully operational cannabis business. The business strategy is to grow by acquisitions, joint ventures, and new market opportunities in the US and Internationally. Cannabis is legal for medical use in 30 States plus DC. It is legal for adult recreational use in 9 States plus DC. The entire country of Canada legalized marijuana adult use in October 2018. The Company believes this trend of legalization of marijuana in the US and worldwide will continue and create tremendous growth opportunities for shareholders. Twitter: https://twitter.com/playersnetwork FaceBook: https://facebook.com/PlayersNetwork For more information please visit www.PlayersNetwork.com Activate your FREE account & sign up for news/updates: https://playersnetwork.com/ir Information about Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains forward-looking statements that include information relating to future events. Forward-looking statements should not be read as a guarantee of future performance or results and will not necessarily be accurate indications of the times at, or by which, that performance or those results will be achieved. Forward-looking statements are based on information available at the time they are made and/or managements good faith belief as of that time with respect to future events and are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual performance or results to differ materially from those expressed in, or suggested by, the forward-looking statements. Important factors that could cause these differences include, but are not limited to: inability to gain or maintain licenses, reliance on unaudited statements, the Companys need for additional funding, governmental regulation of the cannabis industry, the impact of competitive products and pricing, the demand for the Companys products, and other risks that are detailed from time-to-time in the Companys filings with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission. For a more detailed description of the risk factors and uncertainties affecting Players Network, please refer to the Companys recent Securities and Exchange Commission filings, which are available at www.sec.gov. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise. Players Network Contacts: Investor Inquiries: Interview Requests & Media Inquiries with Mark Bradley, CEO: David Klepinger , Investor Relations Manager Email: dklepinger @playersnetwork.com Office: 702.840.3283 Interview Requests & Media Inquiries (General): Dublin, May 09, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Research Report on Natural Gas Import in China, 2019-2023" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. Topics Covered Analysis on the supply of and demand for natural gas in China China's policies on natural gas import Volume and price of China's natural gas imports Progress in the construction of LNG terminals and natural gas pipelines in China Major sources of China's natural gas imports Analysis of factors influencing natural gas import in China from 2019 to 2023 Forecast on natural gas import in China from 2019 to 2023 The growing Chinese economy and stricter environmental protection policies drive the growth of natural gas consumption in China. In 2018, the Chinese government introduced several environmental protection policies to further prevent and control atmospheric pollution and replace coal with natural gas in key areas, which pushed up natural gas consumption in China. According to the preliminary estimate, the consumption of natural gas in China exceeded 27 million cubic meters in 2018, registering a YOY increase of more than 10%. The market survey shows that in 2018, the consumption of natural gas for power generation, household use, and industrial purposes increased significantly while the consumption of natural gas in the chemical industry decreased slightly. The consumption of natural gas grew rapidly in the central and eastern regions which have a developed economy and high population density while grew slowly in the western regions. In 2018, the consumption of natural gas in provinces such as Hebei, Jiangsu and Guangdong all saw an increase of more than 3 billion cubic meters. According to this analysis, as restricted by reserves and exploitation conditions, the production volume of natural gas in China has little growth potential. In 2018, the production volume of natural gas in China was about 160.30 billion cubic meters, representing a YOY increase of 8.30%, a growth rate far lower than that of the consumption volume. But it is noteworthy that the production volume of shale gas reached 11 billion cubic meters with a YOY increase of about 20%. Because of insufficient domestic production, China needs to import a large quantity of natural gas to meet domestic demand. In recent years, China's reliance on natural gas imports is rising sharply with the rapidly growing import volume of natural gas. In 2018, China surpassed Japan to become the world's largest natural gas importer. According to the preliminary estimate, in 2018, the import volume of natural gas in China was about 90.39 million tons, representing a YOY increase of 31.80% and import reliance of more than 40%. The natural gas imports in China include pipeline natural gas and LNG. As the import of LNG does not require pipeline construction and the shipping costs are low, LNG dominates China's natural gas imports. According to this analysis, in 2018, the import volume of LNG in China reached 53.78 million tons, increasing by 41% YOY. The growth was mainly driven by China's increasing demand for LNG, the use of new LNG terminals and the performance of new LNG contracts. At the end of 2018, the annual handling capacity of LNG terminals in China reached 66.95 million tons. Phase I of the seven LNG terminals under construction had an annual handing capacity of 16.20 million tons. In addition, LNG terminals under extended construction in Tangshan, Qingdao and Rudong will see a significant increase in handling capacity after they are put into service. According to this analysis, the natural gas importers in China have signed many LNG procurement contracts with global natural gas suppliers. For example, in 2018, China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC) signed LNG import contracts with Cheniere, Qatargas and Exxon Mobil; China National Offshore Oil Corporation (CNOOC) signed LNG import contract with Petroliam Nasional Berhad (PETRONAS). In addition, CNOOC's LNG contract with British Petroleum (BP) will be honored in 2019, which means that CNOOC's new LNG contract volume will exceed 10 million tons/year. Meanwhile, China is building long-distance pipelines to facilitate the transportation and allocation of natural gas on the domestic market. At the end of 2018, the total length of China's long-distance natural gas pipelines was close to 76,000 kilometers. The Erdos-Anping-Zhangzhou Gas Pipeline (Phase I), Inner Mongolia-Shanxi Gas Pipeline (Phase I) and Chuxiong-Panzhihua Natural Gas Pipeline (a branch line of China-Myanmar Pipeline) have been put into service, and parts of the China-Russia East-Route Natural Gas Pipeline and the Qianjiang-Shaoguan Natural Gas Pipeline have been completed. Constant progress is being made in the construction of regional pipeline networks. For example, the construction of six major pipeline networks in the eastern, western and northern parts of Guangdong has been started and is planned to be completed at the end of 2020. With the construction of domestic long-distance natural gas pipelines, the number of natural gas users in China will keep rising, which will stimulate the consumption of natural gas. As natural gas is environmentally friendly and easy to transport and use, the demand for natural gas in China is expected to keep rising from 2019 to 2023. As the growth rate of the production volume is far lower than that of the demand, the import volume of natural gas in China will keep growing from 2019 to 2023. Key Topics Covered 1 Overview of Natural Gas Industry 1.1 Definition of Natural Gas 1.2 Classification of Natural Gas 1.3 Analysis on Industry Chain of Natural Gas 2 Development Environment of China's Natural Gas Industry, 2019-2023 2.1 Economic Environment 2.2 Policy Environment 2.2.1 China's Policies on Natural Gas Import 2.2.2 China's Import Tariffs on Natural Gas 2.3 Social Environment 2.4 Analysis on Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) Terminals in China 2.4.1 Capacity of LNG Terminals in China 2.4.2 China's Policies on LNG Terminals 3 Analysis on Supply of and Demand for Natural Gas in China 3.1 Analysis on Supply of Natural Gas in China 3.1.1 China's Natural Gas Reserves 3.1.2 Production Volume of Natural Gas in China 3.2 Analysis on Demand for Natural Gas in China 3.2.1 Consumption of Natural Gas in China 3.2.2 Major Consumer Groups of Natural Gas in China 4 Analysis on Natural Gas Import in China 4.1 Analysis on Scale of Natural Gas Import in China 4.1.1 Import Volume of Natural Gas in China 4.1.2 Import Value of Natural Gas in China 4.2 Analysis on Average Import Price of Natural Gas in China 4.3 Comparison of Prices of Domestic and Imported Natural Gas 4.3.1 Average Import Price of Natural Gas in CNY 4.3.2 Prices of Domestic Natural Gas 4.3.3 Comparison of Prices of Domestic and Imported Natural Gas 4.4 Analysis on China's Reliance on Natural Gas Imports 4.5 Analysis on Sources of China's Natural Gas Imports 4.6 Analysis on Natural Gas Imports by Type in China 5 Pipeline Natural Gas Import in China 5.1 Analysis on Scale of Pipeline Natural Gas Import in China 5.1.1 Import Volume of Pipeline Natural Gas in China 5.1.2 Import Value of Pipeline Natural Gas in China 5.2 Average Import Price of Pipeline Natural Gas in China 5.3 Analysis on Sources of China's Pipeline Natural Gas Imports 6 Analysis on LNG Import in China 6.1 Analysis on Scale of LNG Import in China 6.1.1 Import Volume of LNG in China 6.1.2 Import Value of LNG in China 6.2 Average Import Price of LNG in China 6.3 Sources of China's LNG Imports 7 Major Natural Gas Importers in China, 2018-2019 7.1 China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC) 7.1.1 Enterprise Profile 7.1.2 Operation Status of Natural Gas Business 7.2 China National Offshore Oil Corporation (CNOOC) 7.3 China Petrochemical Corporation (Sinopec) 7.4 JOVO Group 7.5 Guanghui Energy Co. Ltd. 8 Prospect of Natural Gas Import in China, 2019-2023 8.1 Major Factors Influencing Natural Gas Import in China 8.1.1 Major Driving Forces and Market Opportunities 8.1.2 Threats and Challenges 8.2 Forecast on Natural Gas Import in China, 2019-2023 8.3 Forecast on Demand for Natural Gas Imports in China, 2019-2023 For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/7sjhsf Research and Markets also offers Custom Research services providing focused, comprehensive and tailored research. Denver, Colo., May 09, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The American Indian College Funds Think Indian Community Awareness program awarded seven non-profit, accredited colleges and universities with $2,500 grants to promote the vibrancy of Native American students, scholarship, and communities. Think Indian was originally created in 2009 as a public awareness campaign to promote the American Indian College Fund and the contributions Native American scholars make to our world. The Think Indian campaign was renewed in 2018 to promote the American Indian College Funds scholarship and support programs for Native students. The Think Indian Community Awareness Grants will support specific efforts of Native-serving colleges and universities, helping them better raise awareness and connect with students and tribal communities. The following seven higher institutions were awarded grants under the program: Idaho State University (ISU) ISU will hold its Bengal Warrior Bootcamp July 25-26, 2019, engaging students in physical and educational challenges. Participants from the Shoshone-Bannock Tribal community will participate in two days of college preparatory workshops and obstacle course drills to prepare them for the future. Redlands University Redlands Native Student Programs will bring students and community members together this summer to create a mural to inspire Native people to seek higher education. Prospective students will write essays about what it means to Think Indian and share their thoughts at a ceremony unveiling this art project. College of Menominee Nation (CMN) CMN will reach out to the thousands of attendees of the Menominee Pageant at their annual powwow contest. They will highlight profiles of exceptional Native students and scholarship opportunities in the pageant program and distribute Think Indian pageant shirts to further raise awareness. George Washington University (GWU) GWUs Center for Indigenous Politics and Policy will create an indigenous guide to D.C., including a walking tour map and associated mobile application. The guide will highlight sites of importance to Native people throughout our Nations capital. GWU will raise general awareness of the tool and incorporate it into their pre-college preparatory program for Native students. Leech Lake Tribal College (LLTC) LLTC will implement a multi-platform promotion of the college and scholarship opportunities throughout the summer, inviting prospective students to Think Indian: Come Find Your Place. Using targeting info from a community needs survey, they will launch social media posts, flyers, advertisements and banners creating new content to better reach their audience. New Mexico State University (NMSU) NMSU hosts a Dreamkeepers Summer Enrichment Program June 16-28, 2019, for Native American high school students in New Mexico. Student participants will create a landmark mural in Las Cruces, celebrating Native American vibrancy and resiliency. And Native hip-hop artist Tall Paul will deliver an inspirational speech and perform a free concert for their community. White Earth Tribal and Community College (WETCC) WETCC will host a Boarding School Awareness Campaign and Healing Event in August to educate and provide a space where Native Americans of all generations can recover from the brutal effects of colonization. WETCC will create a traveling art exhibit, communicating the timeline of boarding schools impact and will host a healing ceremony with a meal and a screening of Iron Horse, a documentary about boarding schools. About the American Indian College Fund Founded in 1989, the American Indian College Fund has been the nations largest charity supporting Native higher education for 30 years. The College Fund believes Education is the answer" and provided 5,896 scholarships last year totaling $7.65 million to American Indian students, with more than 131,000 scholarships and community support totaling over $200 million since its inception. The College Fund also supports a variety of academic and support programs at the nations 35 accredited tribal colleges and universities, which are located on or near Indian reservations, ensuring students have the tools to graduate and succeed in their careers. The College Fund consistently receives top ratings from independent charity evaluators and is one of the nations top 100 charities named to the Better Business Bureaus Wise Giving Alliance. For more information about the American Indian College Fund, please visit www.collegefund.org. Attachment During its Sixth Annual Week of Service, ADT Volunteers Contributed more than 22,000 Hours in Nearly 200 Communities From Coast to Coast BOCA RATON, Fla., May 09, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- ADT (NYSE: ADT), a leading provider of monitored security and interactive home and business automation solutions in the United States and Canada, today announced results of its ADT Always Cares Annual Week of Service from April 27 to May 4 with thousands of employees and their families donating over 22,000 hours of volunteerism, helping make a difference at events in nearly 200 communities nationwide. From coast to coast, our team members rolled up their sleeves to give back, said Amelia Pulliam, ADT Chief Human Resources Officer. ADT is a purpose driven company in which our dedicated employees make a difference in their communities each day. We believe in stronger and safer communities and our volunteerism during this years Week of Service showed that unwavering commitment. ADT employees partnered with a range of non-profit organizations, serving in a variety of ways - from beautifying an urban forest in Illinois to assembling care kits for veterans at ADTs corporate office in Florida. Heres a sampling of ADT volunteer opportunities: Sorting non-perishable items at the North Texas Food Bank in Dallas, TX Providing a meal for families at the Ronald McDonald House in Knoxville, TN Distributing food to needy kids through packbacks of love in Richmond, VA Planting trees at a park in Aurora, CO Improving an animal shelter in Fayetteville, AR Walking to support March of Dimes in Fresno, CA Working at the Habitat for Humanity Restore in Tacoma, WA Serving lunch to the homeless in Bayamon, PR Helping the children at the Boys and Girls Club in Rochester, NY Preparing and serving a meal to homeless veterans in Asheville, NC On April 28, ADT Employee Stacy Johnson volunteered at Kitchens for Good a San Diego non-profit and says it was a great experience, The sense of joy I got from helping feed so many hungry people was very fulfilling. Launched in 2013, ADT Always Cares is a corporate-wide citizenship program comprised of employee-directed volunteerism and philanthropy. ADT also supports police and fire departments through its LifeSaver celebrations, a signature program which recognizes ADT employees and first responders who help save the lives of ADT customers. About ADT ADT is a leading provider of security and automation solutions in the United States and Canada, protecting homes and businesses, people on-the-go and digital networks. Making security more accessible than ever before, and backed by 24/7 customer support, ADT is committed to providing superior customer service with a focus on speed and quality of responsiveness, helping customers feel safer and empowered. ADT is headquartered in Boca Raton, Florida and employs approximately 19,000 people throughout North America. Media Relations Bob Tucker btucker@adt.com A photo accompanying this announcement is available at http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/a603f9f3-5012-4fd0-a22e-118d06066d43 TORONTO, May 09, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Arena Minerals Inc. ("Arena" or the "Company") (TSX-V: AN) is pleased to report results from its recently completed surface transient electromagnetic (TEM) survey over the Antofalla North claim block. The survey results confirm the presence of halite over the salar surface, representing approximately 15% of the claim block, but also discovered low resistivity fields at depth along the eastern margin of the survey area. This low resistivity field is interpreted as a large aquifer saturated with brine, increasing the prospective brine field by 600 percent. Arena had purchased the claim block on the assumption brine would be present only within the known halite found on the salar surface, which covers the north western corner of the property. Will Randall, President and CEO of Arena Minerals, commented: "The TEM results add significant value to our recent acquisition, increasing the potential for a significant resource entirely within our Antofalla North claim block. Based on these results we will design a drill program to test the newly discovered brine field. At present, the Company is initiating a shallow drill program to define the near surface brines within the halite found on the salar surface along the western portion of the claim block." A video of the TEM survey results is now available on the Companys website at www.arenaminerals.com.. The discovered low resistivity field extends down 300 metres from surface and is open at depth. A follow up work program has been initiated, consisting primarily of shallow drilling on a regular grid to determine brine composition over the halite dominant salar surface. Once these results have been received a drill program will be designed to define the brine resource hosted within the halite as well as test the low resistivity discovered in this survey. TEM Survey Details The TEM survey was performed by Quantec Geoscience Argentina S.A. The TEM field procedure was designed to collect sounding data in an expedient manner. Data were collected with a moving-loop method in which the receiver coil was located at the center of a square, single-turn transmit loop. Transmit loop dimensions were fixed at 200 m x 200 m. A frequency of 25 Hz and 2.5 Hz was employed throughout the survey allowing secondary magnetic field decay measurements over a total of 20 time channels. The transmitter and receiver were linked with a reference cable. In addition, the Company informs that Vernon Arseneau is no longer Vice President of Exploration for the Company. About Arena Minerals Arena owns three lithium brine projects in Argentina, consisting of three claims covering a total of 4,000 hectares of the central portion of Salar de Antofalla, located immediately south of Albemarle Corporation's Antofalla project, claims covering 290 hectares in Salar de Hombre Muerto, and an option over 2,000 hectares in the Pocitos Salar. Arena also owns 80 percent of the Atacama Copper property, consisting of two projects covering approximately 7,000 hectares within the Antofagasta region of Chile. The projects are at low altitudes, within producing mining camps in infrastructure-rich areas, located in the heart of Chile's premier copper mining district. The technical and scientific aspects of this news release have been reviewed and approved by Mr. William Randall, P.Geo, who is a qualified person pursuant to NI 43-101. As the President & CEO of the Company, Mr. Randall is not considered independent. To view our website, please visit www.arenaminerals.com. In addition to featuring information regarding the Company, its management, and projects, the site also contains the latest corporate news, a long form text explaining the unique business model of the Company (under the tab the Company Explained) and an email registration allowing subscribers to receive news and updates directly. For more information, contact William Randall, President and CEO, at +1-416-818-8711 or Simon Marcotte, Vice-President Corporate Development, at +1-647-801-7273 or smarcotte@arenaminerals.com. On behalf of the Board of Directors of Arena Minerals Inc. William Randall, President and CEO Cautionary Note Regarding Accuracy and Forward-Looking Information This news release may contain forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking information includes, but is not limited to, statements, projections and estimates relating to the future development of any of the Company's properties, the anticipating timing with respect to private placement financings, the ability of the Company to complete private placement financings, results of the exploration program, future financial or operating performance of the Company, its subsidiaries and its projects, the development of and the anticipated timing with respect to the Atacama project in Chile, the Antofalla, Hombre Muerto or Pocitos Projects in Argentina , and the Company's ability to obtain financing. Generally, forward-looking information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "plans", "expects" or "does not expect", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", or "believes", or variations of such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will be taken", "occur" or "be achieved". The statements made herein are based on current expectations and assumptions that are subject to risks and uncertainties. Actual results could differ materially because of factors discussed in the management discussion and analysis section of the Company's interim and most recent annual financial statement or other reports and filings with the TSX Venture Exchange and applicable Canadian securities regulations. Estimates underlying the results set out in this news release arise from work conducted by the previous owners and the Company. Forward-looking information is subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information, including but not limited to: general business, economic, competitive, geopolitical and social uncertainties; the actual results of current exploration activities; other risks of the mining industry and the risks described in the annual information form of the Company. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. Arena Minerals does not undertake to update any forward-looking information, except in accordance with applicable securities laws. Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. The Danville Pittsylvania County Chamber of Commerce held its annual awards dinner Monday at the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research. The chamber recognized three Young Professionals PACE (Professional and Community Engagement) award winners as well as this years Leadership Southside graduates. Averett University, in partnership with the chamber, recognized the 2018-19 Educators of the Year. Also honored were two outstanding businesses with the Pinnacle and Pinnacle Small Business awards. Three young professionals were honored as PACE award winners. The chamber created the Professional and Community Engagement Awards to showcase young professionals in the Dan River Region. This years winners were Moriah Davis, Danville Science Center; Porchia Russell, Danville Public Schools; and Travis Tarpley, Danville Family YMCA/Vintage Duck Brand. Leadership Southside, a leadership cohort for local professionals, emphasizes leadership styles, team building, transformational leadership, problem solving, facilitation and effective communication. Eighteen professionals graduated from Leadership Southside XXIV: Linsey Boerrigter, Grantham House; Ryan Dodson, city of Danville; Jeffrey Gignac, American National Bank and Trust Company; Michael Gobble, Danville Fire Department; Dominick Grembi, Danville Pittsylvania Community Services; Nicole Lewis, Danville Pittsylvania Community Services; Tracy Mallard, Noblis; Danny Miller, Averett University; Steven Osborne, Adams and Fisk, PLC; Traci Petty, United Way of Danville-Pittsylvania County; Brenda Robertson, Pittsylvania County; Amanda Schlicting, Dewberry; Emily Scruggs, Blair Homes, LLC; Vincent Shorter, Pittsylvania County; Laura Singleton, Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company; Samantha Smith-Herndon, Institute for Advanced Learning and Research; Emma Staats, Danville Family Vet; and Kim Tatum, Danville Family YMCA. This year 39 teachers were recognized as winners from their schools, and three were selected from that pool each to receive a $2,500 stipend, sponsored by Danville Regional Foundation. The winners were Elizabeth Bennett, Park Avenue Elementary School; Tara Stafford, Dan River Middle School; and Debra Wilson, Danville Alternative Program. This year the chamber board created the Pinnacle Small Business Award, which recognizes excellence in businesses with fewer than 25 employees. The winner is distinguished as a small business or organization that contributes to the economic vitality and quality of life in the region through innovative, ethical business practices, professionalism and strong community involvement. It is the highest honor awarded to a small business by the chamber, and this year was awarded to Danville Family Vet. Danville Family Vet was founded 22 years ago, and in the last year alone has achieved the highest levels of accreditation in their field, provided the community with a new, state-of-the-art facility, created 10 new jobs, and above all, has developed a genuine connection with the community. The chamber's board created the Pinnacle Award in 2011 to recognize a business or organization whose outstanding achievements serve as a model for success. It is the highest honor awarded to a business by the Chamber, and this year was awarded to First Piedmont Corporation. This year First Piedmont is celebrating its 50th year, now employing over 150 in the region and more than 100 locally. Seven years ago the company made a nearly $3 million financial investment in our local environment by building a compressed natural gas fueling station on U.S. 58 and acquiring trucks that use the clean fuel. More than 10 percent of their fleet is fueled by natural gas, and each diesel truck replaced is the equivalent in emissions reduction of taking over 300 gasoline-burning cars off the road. Walmart Inc. will stop selling cigarettes, including electronic ones, to buyers under 21 as it follows other retailers' push to crack down on sales to minors. The world's biggest retailer said Wednesday the change will go into effect on July 1 at all of its Walmart and Sam's Club locations in the U.S. The company said it's also in the process of halting the sale of fruit- and dessert-flavored vaping products categories that have been particularly popular with teenagers. The move comes amid a surge in youth vaping that has alarmed public health officials. Some pharmacy chains that still sell tobacco products have already announced plans to lift the age to 21, including Walgreens Boots Alliance Inc., while Rite Aid Corp. says it will stop selling vaping products altogether. In addition, senators including Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell of Kentucky have said they will introduce bills to raise the age of tobacco purchase to 21. "We unequivocally acknowledge that even a single sale of a tobacco product to a minor is one too many, and we take seriously our responsibilities in this regard," Walmart's U.S. Chief Ethics and Compliance Officer John Scudder said in a letter to the FDA. The retailer also said it would strengthen disciplinary actions for employees who fail to verify shoppers' ages, which could include termination. Churches in Danville can expect to see increases in electricity charges paired with a lower overall consumption rate beginning July 1, 2020. But not everyone is on board with the changes. I dont think this is the way to fix the rate issue, City Councilman Adam Tomer told the Danville Register & Bee on Wednesday. Churches pay a lower electric rate than other nonprofits and commercial businesses, and residents and businesses should not be forced to subsidize the rates for places of worship Tomer said. I think places of worship should pay the same commercial rates that other tax-exempts or nonprofits do, he said. One local pastor also opposes the change, but for different reasons. Seth Lackey, co-pastor at Faith Memorial Baptist Church, said he expects to see a 6-percent increase in the churchs utility bills as a result. We want to make sure this is not something that compounds for us as a church, Lackey told Danville City Council during a public hearing on the changes Tuesday night. Lackey pointed out that the city had to refund the church in 2018 (about $45,000) after it was incorrectly billed at a higher rate for several years. Danville Utilities was mistakenly led to believe in 2008 that the worship rate was eliminated, which resulted in some churches in the city being charged under a higher rate schedule. Before we were put on the right rate, it was a huge burden, he said. Following recommendations from a 2018 biennial rate study conducted by GDS Associates Inc. of Marietta, Georgia, city officials have decided to raise the monthly customer charge on churches from $24 to $50 and introduced a new demand charge of $2.60 per kilowatt applied to every kilowatt for those with more than 25 kilowatts in demand per month. There would be no such charge for those whose demand is less than 25 kilowatts. According to the study, 94 of the citys 161 churches would see an average annual increase of 4.5 percent in the electric portion of their utility bills, paying an average of $17.01 more per month. The remaining 67 would see an average 2.1-percent decrease annually, paying about $24.80 less per month. Danville City Council voted 5-4 for the changes Tuesday. Tomer, Vice Mayor Lee Vogler and councilmen Madison Whittle and Larry Campbell also voted against the change. On Wednesday, Danville Utilities Director Jason Grey declined to comment on the four votes in opposition. City Council does a good job in reviewing the budgets and rates studies, Grey said. The Danville Utility Commission unanimously voted in February to recommend the adjustments. But the decision also included delaying the changes for a year so utilities staff could reach out to churches and give those organizations time to reduce power use and take advantage of energy efficiency incentives offered by the city. To offset the demand charge, Danville Utilities will lower the overall electric consumption rate from 12.1 cents per kilowatt-hour to 10.75 cents, a difference of a little more than a penny. As for raising the customer charge, that is designed to help recover fixed costs associated with giving the first 25 [kilowatts] away free, according to the biennial rate study. Currently, all churches pay the same charges, and the changes would help them be more self-sufficient as a rate-paying class as a whole, Grey said. Under the adjustments beginning next year, those churches with a higher load factor or higher consumption would see a small decrease in electric costs, while those using less power would see a slight increase. The adjustments will be revenue-neutral and a decrease in one rate should offset rises in other charges, easing any potential impact on churches, Grey said. There would not be an increase or decrease in revenue for us, compared to what it is today, Grey said earlier this year. Its always our goal to have each class to be able to cover its own cost of service, Grey said during an interview in February. Were not looking to increase revenue. John Crane reports for the Danville Register & Bee. Contact him at jcrane@registerbee.com or (434) 791-7987. 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. The Danville Police Department and Virginia State Police rolled out an initiative to put more police on the citys streets this summer and possibly beyond. Called Safe Streets Southside, the program involves spreading more police officers state and local throughout Danville to curtail violent crime, weapons violations, drug crime and gang activity, using data to guide their approach, Lt. D.E. Whitley said Wednesday. The program, which began last week, is an extension of similar partnerships with state police that came before it in 2016 and 2017, Whitley said. State police reached out to Danville to make the program happen this year, and the local department felt the need to alert residents and visitors to the pending increased in police on the streets. We have been in the process of cultivating and building this relationship with the communities we serve, and part of that is transparency, Whitley said. People who live here, people who visit here, people who come here to play, they are going to see an increased uniformed presence, and obviously they are going to want to know why. Increasing police presence is only one element of the plan, but Whitley would not elaborate on other details. The goal is to increase the peace of mind of city visitors and residents, Whitley said, deploying more officers on the streets to continue the departments community engagement efforts, prevent crime through their visibility and pivot to high crime areas when necessary. State troopers and special agents also will have an increased footprint in Danville. We are not saying we have got a whole bunch of crime going on in this area of the city so we go swamp it with cars and stop everything that moves, he said. There is not an anticipated or goal number of arrests for the initiative, Whitley said. That is not the best way to measure police impact. The initiative targets violent crimes for prevention, Whitley said, because they have some of the widest impact on the community and the perception of the city. Beyond the first goal of keeping people safe, the initiative seeks to improve Danvilles image. Violent crimes cast the whole region in a negative light, giving potential residents pause before they move. If there is a shooting on the south side, it shakes the people up on the north side; it shakes people up out in the county, he said. You have one isolated incident in one area of the city and it affects the region. And those problems of violent crime originate with a small cross-section of the population, Lt. Richard Chivvis said. Data shows that a small portion of the population commits an outsize percentage of crimes in the city. That is typical, Chivvis said. The data does say that 6 percent of our population commits about 60 percent of our crime. We know a very small portion of our population is committing our violent crime, Chivvis said. [The] focus of this initiative is on violent crime, weapons and drug violations. The initiative will remain as long as its goals are being met, Whitley said. The department also is working with Pittsylvania County agencies and the Danville Commonwealth Attorneys Office. The Virginia State Police did not respond to questions in time for this storys publication. James Whitlow reports for the Danville Register & Bee. Contact him at jwhitlow@registerbee.com or (434) 791-7983. Nick Gradisar used to joke that if Martians landed in his hometown of Pueblo, Colo., and said, Take us to your leader, he wouldnt know what to say. Thats because Pueblo didnt reallya leader. Nobody had held the position of mayor since 1954, when the city did away with the practice of designating the council president as mayor. Before that, no one had actually been elected to the post since 1911. Pueblo, population 110,000, is the only American city of comparable size that functioned for the past 65 years without even a figurehead mayor in the corner office.Thats no longer the case. Gradisar fought for years to change the system, got that done in a referendum in 2017, and then ran for the job himself. He won, and this January he was sworn in as the citys first elected mayor in more than a century. Now Pueblo not only has a mayor but a strong one: Gradisar has the authority to make all the executive decisions, handle the important personnel appointments and prepare the budget. The city manager who did some of those things under the old system has already cleaned out his desk.Youre probably wondering just how big a deal this is. After all, cities all over the country have mayors who function largely in a ceremonial capacity while the council or manager takes care of the administrative side. But as the citizens of Pueblo finally realized, theres a difference between a ceremonial mayor and no mayor at all. When corporate executives made site-location visits to Pueblo and asked if they could meet the mayor, they had to be told something like, Um, we dont have one. Any management consultant will tell you thats not a very good way to impress a CEO.Its easy to see why Pueblo might have wanted to try something different. Once the second-largest city in Colorado, it slipped to ninth in recent decades after its main employer, a huge steel mill, largely shut down. Its current unemployment rate is the highest among Colorado cities. None of those things can be blamed directly on missing-mayor government. But taken together, they persuaded the citys electorate to move to a strong-mayor system after rejecting the idea decisively eight years earlier.They didnt have to go as far as they did. They could have just slapped a new title on the council president and left everything else the same. But they felt the need to make a bolder move. Economic development is a huge issue for that city, says Sam Mamet, the longtime executive director of the Colorado Municipal League. They wanted someone in charge.Pueblo is an extreme case, but quite a few cities that long had weak-mayor governments have gone strong-mayor in the past couple of decades. Colorado Springs, just up the road from Pueblo, is one. Among the others are Cincinnati, Oakland, Calif., Richmond, Va., and St. Petersburg, Fla.If you mention this to people at the International City/County Management Association, they will remind you that the city manager system is the most popular form of urban government in America, used in 55 percent of all jurisdictions, and gaining new adherents all the time. That is true. But it doesnt apply to the largest places: Of the 30 most populous U.S. cities, 21 operate under some form of strong-mayor regime.And for all the cogent arguments the city management people have made for the past 100 years about the virtues of nonpartisan administrators over politicized and personally ambitious mayors, it remains true that the best strong mayors are the heroes of urban history, the leaders that cities like Cincinnati and Oakland and Richmond longed to produce.Anyone who has read about Fiorello LaGuardia as mayor of New York in the 1930s, or better yet seen a video clip of him in action -- making a hundred decisions in a single day, fully absorbed in his work far into the night, riding all over the city to investigate crime and fire scenes, wheedling billions of dollars for roads and bridges out of the federal government -- anyone who has seen this will find it hard to resist the idea of LaGuardia as the gold standard in American urban government. Or consider a less dramatic example: Boston Mayor Tom Menino, whose mildly autocratic mayoral regime in the 1990s and 2000s was instrumental in resuscitating Boston to prosperity and coolness. And of course there are the Mayors Daley of Chicago. You may love them or hate them, but its hard to ignore the transformation of that city from an overgrown Midwest factory town to a global metropolis over 40 years of combined Daley stewardship.Other, less-celebrated cities have also made impressive advances in recent years by managing to elect a string of honest and competent strong mayors one after another. Nashville is one example (with the sole exception of Mayor Megan Barry, who in 2018 resigned in scandal after less than three years in office); Indianapolis is another. Those are examples that any aspiring metropolis is bound to look at.There have been a few highly visible strong-mayor disasters over the same period. Detroit kept Coleman Young in office for 20 years, starting in 1974, and watched as he all but urged the middle class to leave the city, with ruinous consequences. Kwame Kilpatrick, one of his successors, was sentenced to a 28-year term in federal prison. When strong-mayor government produces the wrong leaders, there are few protections against its abuse.At the same time, clever politicians elected mostly as figureheads in weak-mayor cities have learned how to make the most of those situations for their own and their constituents benefit. Freed from the responsibility of managing city services and departments, they have built reputations as dynamic representatives on economic development and national political issues. Henry Cisneros wrote the book on this in San Antonio in the 1980s; Julian Castro rode a weak-mayor position in the same city 20 years later into a federal cabinet position and a presidential candidacy. In Phoenix, Phil Gordon and Greg Stanton took historically ceremonial mayoralties and used them to promote and develop a successful public transit system.When you add it all up, though, it seems fair to conclude that the original idea of city-manager government, developed by Richard Childs in the early 20th century as a progressive solution to urban problems, has not traveled very well to the 21st. Childs idea was that the city manager would be an unshakably nonpolitical presence, making decisions on the strength of statistics and hard evidence and avoiding partisan infighting like the plague. The belief survived longer than the reality. Most city managers found it impossible to stay out of politics, even if they were able to eschew formal partisanship. Generally conservative by temperament, they tended to run their cities as offshoots of the local chamber of commerce, often settling on the important decisions with business leaders over morning coffee at a friendly diner in the shadow of city hall. It was nonpartisan government, but it was also, at least by todays standards, closed government. It isnt practical now in any city of decent size.Over time, strong-mayor and weak-mayor government have tended to move closer together. Many places that used to elect ribbon-cutting figureheads have gradually given their mayors additional tools to work with. At the same time, places that once dumped virtually every form of governmental responsibility on an elected partisan mayor have brought in managers to take over some of their administrative burden. The distinction between the two systems isnt nearly as clear-cut as it was a couple of generations ago.The one fundamental truth that seems to emerge from a century of experimentation is that no one arrangement is ideal for every city. Almost anything can work with the right sort of community leadership. Dallas and Houston provide an interesting case. Their systems of government couldnt be much more different. In the past several decades, Houston has had a series of strong mayors who have not only dominated the city but frequently become familiar names on the broader urban government scene. Dallas, administered largely by an appointed city manager, has had a series of mayors whose names tend to be forgotten outside the city once they leave office.The results of these different approaches have been pretty similar. Dallas and Houston both have more than their share of urban problems, but they have largely thrived in recent years, attracting new businesses and residents and earning reputations as two of Americas better-governed cities. As the Colorado Municipal Leagues Mamet likes to say, its not the system, its the people.Still, its hard to argue with the decision Pueblo made this year. When corporate recruiters knock on the door of city hall, its best to have somebody sitting at a desk with a nameplate that says Mayor on it. The details can be worked out later. Alan Ehrenhalt | Senior Editor | aehrenhalt@governing.com As a strong advocate of council-manager government, it is with pride that I can point out that two-thirds of Moody's Aaa-bond-rated communities operate under the council-manager form. Council-manager cities, according to the IBM report "Smarter, Faster, Cheaper," are nearly 10 percent more efficient than cities with "strong" mayor forms of government. And the majority of All-America City Award recipients for the past five years have been council-manager.Residents of council-manager communities can expect to see a professionally qualified staff led by an appointed manager who is ethically compelled to tell the governing body what they need to know rather than what they want to hear. Residents can expect to see an appointed manager and senior staff that find themselves responsibly at the intersection of political and administrative arenas, facilitating the connection between what is "politically acceptable" in the community and what is "operationally sustainable." These two basic elements of effective governance could occur under any form of government, but I deeply believe that they are embedded within the council-manager structure. This does not mean that every council-manager government does these things well, but if they do not, it is not the fault of the structure, which is designed to promote effectiveness.Council-manager government is fundamentally about structure-the place in which democratic values, processes and professionalism are embedded. This structure and these qualities cannot exist when communities seek purely "heroic" leadership. I do not think council-manager communities look for Superman or Wonder Woman to create community prosperity and resilience through charismatic leadership. I do, however, believe mayor-council communities create more of that expectation.Consider all the challenges we face locally, things like affordable housing, homelessness, opioid abuse and climate change. No "heroic leader" is going to solve these issues. Rather, they require leadership and organizational structures that foster a culture of experimentation anchored in trusting relationships between the governing body and an independent administrative staff."Heroic" mayors capture our attention. But I would rather focus on a system that dependably provides access to democratic values; that promotes professionalism; that facilitates the connection between politics and administration; that gives exceptional leaders a chance to make a difference. I strongly believe that these are the characteristics of the council-manager structure, not the mayor-council form. Governments around the nation are working to design the best vaccine policies that keep both their employees and their residents safe. Although the latest data shows a variety of polarizing perspectives, there are clear emerging best practices that leading governments are following to put trust first: creating policies that are flexible and provide a range of options, and being in tune with the needs and sentiments of their employees so that they are able to be dynamic and accommodate the rapidly changing situation. New historical federal data shows school spending in recent years continued to climb as state and local sales, income and property tax revenue rebounded. The National Center for Education Statistics this week reported that K-12 revenue was up 3.2 percent between fiscal years 2015 and 2016 and spending in fiscal year 2016 climbed 2.4 percent to around $10,800 per student. The report provides an annual detailed look at the most recently available federal, state, and local spending on districts across the country. While lagging by three years, it shows that K-12 revenue and spending since the recession continued to tick upward for rural, suburban and urban districts across the country. It comes on the heels of other reports that show that the majority of states this year are on track to provide schools with plenty more revenue as the economy continues to surge. Despite the fact, teachers, parents and district leaders across the country have continued to complain that the increased spending is not landing in their paycheck. That anger has boiled over this legislative session with teachers in Oregon, North Carolina, South Carolina, and in Nashville, Tenn., walking off the job in recent weeks. District leaders say a confluence of reasons, including dramatic demographic shifts, skyrocketing health-care, pension, and debt costs mean they have struggled to provide teachers with across-the-board pay increases. They also say that local, state, and federal political leaders are not providing enough money for districts to retain and keep quality teachers and keep classroom sizes low, and school buildings safe. A recent report by the Albert Shanker Institute said that while states currently spend on average around $13,000 on high-poverty school districts, states, they should be spending more than $20,000 on those districts. There is now widespread agreement, backed by research, that we cannot improve education outcomes without providing schoolsparticularly schools serving disadvantaged student populationswith the resources necessary for doing so, the authors concluded. Put simply: we cant decide how best to spend money for schools unless schools have enough money to spend. But conservatives have continued to complain that the property, sales, and income taxes those school districts are most dependent on are too high and that districts are wasting the money they have. In Wake County, North Carolina, where there has been a knock-down fight this month over how much more money the local school district should get this fall, state Senate leader Harry Brown, a Republican, said in a press release , They had 42 new students and received $27 million extra dollars last school year. The unfortunate residents that this school board is trying to tax into oblivion deserve to know just what exactly Wake County is spending all this money on. Other findings in the NCES report include: Among the nations 100 largest districts, Jordan School District in Utah spent the least per-student at $6,175, and New York City spent the most at $24,109 per student. In 2016, school districts received $55.6 billion from the federal government, a 1 percent increase from 2015. Title I funds accounted for a quarter of those funds, or $14 billion, and special education programs accounted for 20 percent of the funds, or $11.2 billion. School districts in 2016 spent $58.3 billion on school facilities in 2016. Of that money, school districts spent $44.6 billion on new facilities. Read the entire report here . Dont miss another State EdWatch post. Sign up here to get news alerts in your email inbox. And make sure to follow @StateEdWatch on Twitter for the latest news from state K-12 policy and politics. The California Department of Education approved controversial changes to the state's health and sex education framework on Wednesday, but removed five resources and books that some organizations called "sexually explicit," including a book that explains sex to students as young as kindergarten.Despite large protests, the department unanimously approved new guidelines for elementary school grades about sex trafficking, sexual orientation and how to support transgender and non-conforming students in the classroom.The department's meeting focused on revisions for the Health Education Framework, which makes K-12 public school health curriculum recommendations for the next decade. More than 120 people signed up for public comment to support or oppose the changes.The meeting was preceded by a rally at Capitol Park, where nearly 200 people gathered to protest the framework revisions"How are they helping kids find themselves when they are confusing them about who they are, or they could possibly be nothing at all," said Stephanie Yates, founder of Informed Parents of California. The organization has grown to over 20,000 members since it was founded last year.Yates took to the dais at the meeting, and criticized Department of Education board members for approving decisions on behalf of the state's children. Dozens of people who filled the building's lobby cheered as they watched Yates on a live feed call the new revisions part of a political agenda and -- like others -- refer to the material as pornography.But others supported the changes."What we are seeing in the Sacramento community is an open arms approach to this curriculum, " said Cheri Greven, the local Planned Parenthood director of Public Affairs. "A number of parents spoke up saying they were in favor of this. One father told me it allowed him and his son to open a new line of communication about these topics."The framework covers a wide range of topics for students in K-12 education including nutrition, physical activity, growth and sexual health. It also covers topics like alcohol, tobacco, other drug use, and emotional and personal health.Most of the changes that stirred controversy involved sex education."After rising levels of sexually transmitted diseases in teenagers nationwide, this framework was created to help provide necessary education to ensure that students are equipped to make informed and educated decisions when it comes to their sexual health," education department spokesperson Kindra Britt said in a statement. "It was also designed to take the needs of our LGBTQ youth into consideration to make sure they felt safe and supported while at school."Several organizations have called the revisions "sexually explicit," and say that the framework's recommended books show how "offensive, reckless and immoral" the framework is. The education department removed five of the books, but clarified they were not banning the books. According to the state's website, the books were listed as resources for parents to discuss sensitive issues with their children at home.One book, titled "Changing You," which was recommended for removal, shows cartoon illustrations of male and female genitals to educate students on the terminology. It also explains what "having sex is." The book was recommended for transitional kindergarten through third grade."There are all kinds of alternatives, but they want to teach sex ed with the guise that they were trying to prevent sexual transmitted diseases and prevent teen pregnancy," said Greg Burt, director of California Family Council. "Now we are teaching kids how to have a robust sex life. Not everything under the sun needs to be taught to our kids, with no moral judgment."Schools are not required to implement the framework; they are merely recommendations for teachers and administrators. Students can opt-out from lessons about sexual health. But the state says students can't opt-out of lessons that include gender identity, discrimination and explain social issues such as the Supreme Court ruling of same sex marriage."Our priority is to make all children feel comfortable at school," read a statement from the department of education. "Dispelling myths, breaking down stereotypes and linking students to resources can help prevent bullying, self-harm, feelings of hopelessness, and serious considerations of suicide."While every school has the autonomy to choose its own curriculum, teachers from all over the state expressed concerns at the hearing."Teachers are afraid they will be forced to teach concepts that go against their conscious, and use non-binary terms or else they could lose their jobs," said Brenda Lebsack, who teaches in Santa Ana Unified and is a school board member in Orange Unified.Some teachers and instructors said organizations and schools already implementing aspects of the framework have reported it has been beneficial to their students."A student left me an anonymous note thanking me for including transgender students as examples in my lessons," said Sarah Hyde, who teaches health classes in Fremont. "Teachers may feel overwhelmed and will not know how to address every child."Michele McNutt, a registered nurse from Orange County, said she has worked with her local school districts to push for implementation of the new framework."It's critical to give students medically accurate, scientific, unbiased information about their health and their bodies so they can make the best decisions about how to keep themselves safe and protect their reproductive health," said McNutt. "The younger grades also learn about healthy relationships, consent, and ways to interact with peers who might be different than they are."The estimated cost of revising the Health Education Framework is $550,000 over three budget years. It will replace the 2003 framework, which includes material from the 1990s."If we are able to be the land of the free, then we must be the land of the educated and informed," said Rick Oculto, director of Our Family Coalition, which supports equity for children. "Our children are not made safer by ignorance."The California Healthy Youth Act, signed into law three years ago, requires that school districts teach students grades seven to 12 comprehensive sexual health education and HIV prevention education. It is permissible to teach sexual health and HIV prevention related content to elementary aged students, according to the department of education."We always respect the rights of parents, but we also have a duty to protect students who have been subject to bullying, self-harm, feelings of hopelessness, and serious considerations of suicide, and we feel that the framework is a critical step towards this goal," Britt said. Goodbye wait list Paying for true costs Starting in 2020, more Washington residents will be able to attend college for less money. For many, it will be free.About 110,000 low-to median-income students will qualify for help each year, including adults who never got a degree and want to go to school. There will be no more financial-aid wait lists.The changes come from a sweeping higher education bill that passed along with the Legislature's budget last weekend, which will help families who make up to the state's median income -- just under $92,000 for a family of four. It has not yet been signed into law by Gov. Jay Inslee, who called on the Legislature to expand financial aid, but already, experts are calling it nationally significant.It's a "unique and brilliant" approach, said college-aid expert Sara Goldrick-Rab, a Temple University professor and author of "Paying the Price: College Costs, Financial Aid, and the Betrayal of the American Dream." She called the bill "pretty much the most progressive state higher ed funding bill I've seen at the state level in years."The Workforce Education Investment Act is expected to raise nearly $1 billion over four years through a three-tiered hike in the state's business-and-occupation tax. It calls for increased tax rates on about 82,000 of the 380,000 taxpayers who pay the B&O tax, or about one-fifth of all businesses.It also sets aside $300 million over two years for public colleges and universities, making targeted investments to boost high-demand fields such as computer science, engineering and health care, and providing what the Legislature calls "foundational support" to recession-proof the state's colleges and universities.UW President Ana Mari Cauce said the legislation is a huge win -- not only because it eliminates the financial-aid wait list, but because it will allow the university to better weather financial downturns. "We talked about the importance of this being the year for higher education, and I think the Legislature did that," she said.States have become laboratories for experiments with "free" college, said Jenna Sablan, assistant research professor at Georgetown University's Center on Education and the Workforce. Programs range from Tennessee's free community college promise to New York's Excelsior Scholarship, which gives free tuition to the state's two- and four-year public college system for families who make $125,000 or less.Sablan said the Washington program seems to most closely resemble the Excelsior Scholarship. But the New York program requires students to go to college full-time, and if they move out of state, the scholarship may be converted into a loan.The Washington program does not have those features. Students whose families make $50,000 or less for a family of four can go to a two- or four-year public college in Washington tuition-free, and students whose families make up to the median income -- nearly $92,000 for a family of four-- will also get some aid.With the additional funding, Washington will spend $845 million over the 2019-2021 biennium for financial aid. It may be "the most generous-promise financial aid program in the country" -- not just because of the award amounts, but also because of the different ways the money can be used, said Rachelle Sharpe, deputy executive director of the Washington Student Achievement Council, which oversees financial aid.For example: The grant aid can be used by any Washington resident who qualifies, who doesn't already have a bachelor's degree, and who wants to earn something less than a full degree (such as a certificate) at a community college. It can be used at 66 schools in Washington (including many of the state's private universities) and allows students to go part-time. It also covers apprenticeships."I'm not aware of any other state that's done what we've done," said state Rep. Drew Hansen, D-Bainbridge, who sponsored the bill. The act creates a new account, the Workforce Education Investment Account, that may only be used for higher education programs, operations, compensation and state-funded student aid programs.The bill was opposed by the Washington Retail Association and the Independent Business Association of Washington, as well as independent physician clinics. They argued it would lead to increased costs and make it difficult for rural doctors to stay in business. It passed largely along party lines.Although the Department of Revenue can't release information on how much individual businesses will pay, it appears that only two companies, Microsoft and Amazon, fit the description of the highest B&O tax rate category of 2.5 percent (select advanced computing businesses with worldwide revenue that exceeds $100 billion).But the bill also limits their total tax to between $4 million and $7 million per year -- meaning the two companies will contribute between 2 percent and 3.6 percent of the total $380 million in revenue the tax increase will raise over the first two years. Both companies declined to say exactly how much they would pay, while also pointing out they have contributed to higher education in Washington in other ways.Earlier this year, in a Seattle Times Op-Ed supporting the measure, Microsoft President Brad Smith and two co-authors, including Cauce, wrote that tech companies should pay "a bit more" because they benefit from a highly-educated workforce. Amazon later endorsed the bill as well.Washington's 50-year-old State Need Grant has long been one of the nation's most generous financial-aid programs. But it also ran out of money every year. This year, about 92,000 students got money -- and another 18,000 qualified students got none.The new bill replaces the State Need Grant with the more generous Washington College Grant in fall 2020. It is an entitlement, a guarantee that students whose family income meets the threshold will get the full amount to pay for tuition and fees if they plan to attend a state public school, and a portion of tuition if they attend one of the state's accredited private colleges or universities."It's just almost jaw-dropping," said Sharpe, who has worked on financial aid issues for 22 years.The guarantee "is huge," agreed Mary Jean Ryan, executive director of Community Center for Education Results, a nonprofit that works with South King County school districts. "Eligible students and families can now count on assistance for college."If the plan were in place today, it would give a UW undergraduate student who qualified $11,207, the cost this year of in-state tuition and required fees. Currently, the maximum State Need Grant award for a UW student is $9,745.In addition, that student also would likely qualify for a federal Pell Grant, which would provide another $5,000, Sharpe said.The law also extends smaller amounts of grant aid to students whose families make up to the median income, or nearly $92,000 a year for a family of four. For many families in rural areas, where income levels are below the median, it is in effect a promise of either free or reduced tuition, Hansen said.The graduated aid will be especially helpful for students whose families make just slightly more than the old financial aid cutoff. Those students often can't take out enough in loan money to bridge the cost, leaving college just out of reach, Sharpe said.Of course, tuition isn't the only cost. UW officials say a student living at home will need an additional $8,000 to pay for food, transportation and other expenses; a student living on campus will need an additional $16,500 for housing, food, transportation and other expenses. One of the criticisms of "free college" plans is that they don't account for all expenses. But because this plan isn't a so-called "last-dollar scholarship," students who qualify will still get Pell money, bringing their financial aid package closer to the true cost of college.It also gets around another criticism of free college: That most of the money goes to the middle class, since low-income students already qualify for aid. That was one of the arguments against Seattle Promise, part of a levy approved by voters in November that lets all future Seattle public high school students go to one of the city's three community colleges for free. (The Washington College Grant will likely slightly lower the cost for Seattle taxpayers, since more money will be available from the state for students who qualify.)The State Need Grant and a related state program called College Bound has made college possible for many Washington students, including Daniela Suarez, who grew up in Olympia and is now a junior at the University of Washington.Suarez said she feared she'd never be able to get a degree because her parents didn't make enough money to pay for tuition. But Suarez's high-school counselor told her she qualified for the State Need Grant and other forms of aid, which allowed her to attend South Puget Sound Community College as a jumping-off point to the UW.She said, "Before then, I had no hope." The New York State Senate approved a bill Wednesday that would allow Congress to get President Donald Trump's state tax returns, potentially giving Democrats a way around the White House.The Democratic-led Senate approved the bill, 39-22, largely along party lines. It now goes to the overwhelmingly Democratic state Assembly, which plans to discuss the measure on Monday.Just moments prior, the Senate passed a separate measure that it said would allow prosecutors to pursue state criminal charges against associates of a president who have received a pardon for similar federal charges. The bill would not apply retroactively to anyone who has already pleaded guilty, such as Paul Manafort, Trump's former campaign manager.Republicans in Albany said the two measures were "blatant political acts" and an attempt to "delegitimize" Trump's presidency.The income tax bill would authorize the state Tax Department to release a president's New York returns to one of three congressional committees, upon request: the House Ways and Means Committee, the Senate Finance Committee or the Joint Committee on Taxation.Just days ago, the Trump administration said it wouldn't provide the president's tax returns as requested by the House Ways and Means Committee. Taking action in Albany, Democrats said the bill was about ensuring oversight and not allowing Trump to ignore a "coequal branch of government.""It is out of deep concern of what's happening in Washington -- and I don't say that lightly -- that we are here today," Sen. Brad Hoylman (D-Manhattan), the sponsor of the bill, said during the Senate debate. "The [Trump] administration has stonewalled a coequal branch of government. If they [Congress] cannot do it, New York will."New York is Trump's home and the base for many of his businesses, including the Trump Organization and the now-defunct Trump Foundation. His state tax returns are likely to mirror his federal returns."We want to send a message that no one is above the law. Not the president, or anyone else, is above the law," added Sen. Michael Gianaris (D-Queens).Senate Minority Leader John Flanagan (R-East Northport) and fellow Republicans condemned the bill as a "blatant political act.""This should scare the hell out of the average person who lives in New York," Flanagan said.Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo could support the legislation "as long as it applies to everybody" and not just Trump, an aide said earlier this month.Rep. Jerrold Nadler (D-Manhattan), chairman of the House Judiciary Committee, applauded the state Senate."This bill is a workaround to a White House that continues to obstruct and stonewall the legitimate oversight work of Congress," Nadler said in a statement. "The state return should generally match the federal return and obtaining it from New York State will enable us in Congress to perform our oversight function and maintain the rule of law."The second bill, Democrats said, was intended to prevent the abuse of presidential pardon power and close a "double jeopardy loophole." Sen. Todd Kaminsky (D-Long Beach) said it would apply only to people who are related to a president or worked for him previously. He said it cannot apply retroactively to, say, individuals who have been convicted or pleaded guilty as part of the Russian election interference probe.Kaminsky said 24 other states have such statutes and the U.S. Supreme Court has upheld states' ability to pursue their own cases against crimes allegedly committed within their borders.Republicans called it "good politics for some people, but bad public policy.""You are aiming for the President, but there is going to be a lot of collateral damage," Sen. Andrew Lanza (R-Staten Island) said."If this becomes law, you all will rue the day you passed this in New York State," Sen. Tom O'Mara (R-Elmira) added. Jocelyn Benson and John Merrill are a political odd couple.Shes a Michigan Democrat who backed Hillary Clinton, and he's a Donald Trump supporter who represents Alabama. But both are secretaries of state, and when they testified side-by-side before Congress on Wednesday -- she in a blue dress and he in a red tie -- they repeatedly insisted they were friends ready to work together to strengthen the nations voting system.Benson and Merrill called on the federal government to provide more funding and resources for states and localities to address the issue. This weekend, theyre leading 18 other secretaries of state on a voting-rights history tour of Alabama with the hope of inspiring further bipartisan collaboration."Its the first time in our countrys history where youve got the chief election officers collectively, Democrats and Republicans, going to Selma to walk across the Edmund Pettus Bridge together," Benson toldThe question is whether the secretaries can bridge enough of their differences to unite around federal legislation to improve election security.Benson and Merrill appeared alongside cybersecurity experts before the U.S. Committee on House Administration this week, more than two years after Russia's cyberattack on American election systems during the 2016 presidential campaign."There are several reasons to believe the threat against our election infrastructure will be even greater in 2020," said Larry Norden, deputy director of the Democracy Program at the Brennan Center for Justice, in his opening remarks . "Russians will have had four years to leverage knowledge gained in 2016 to do more harm." In addition, he said, the U.S. could face hacking threats from other countries, including China, Iran and North Korea.Norden, Benson, Merrill and every other witness at the hearing asked for more federal funding for election security. They agreed on several ways to improve it -- replacing paperless voting machines with paper ballots, updating old software and adopting post-election audits. Many states are already taking these actions, but the witnesses told Congress they need more support and direction from the federal government to implement them on a wide scale."Local officials in 31 states told us that they must replace their equipment before the 2020 election, but two-thirds of these officials said that they do not have the adequate funds to do so," Norden testified. "And officials in 45 states currently use at least some systems that are no longer manufactured, with many reporting that they have difficulty finding replacements when parts fail."Rep. Marcia Fudge, a Democrat from Ohio, asked how much a comprehensive upgrade of America's election systems would cost. Norden relayed the Brennan Center's estimate that "it would cost more than $300 million to replace all remaining paperless voting machines in the United States and more than $700 million to replace voting machines that are currently over a decade old." Marian Schneider, president of the nonpartisan election reform group Verified Voting, told Fudge the allocation of $1.2 billion proposed in H.R. 1 would be "a good start."But many congressional Republicans are opposed to H.R. 1.GOP Rep. Rodney Davis of Illinois, the ranking member of the House committee, has said that he objects to the fact that the legislation would "force states to allow online voter registration, automatic voter registration and same-day voter registration with no safeguards."This is where the secretaries of state diverge."I would prefer to have less strings attached from the federal government, if they choose to make an allocation," Merrill, the Republican, told. "Every state's needs are not the same." He's opposed to federal funding being tied to same-day or automatic voter registration mandates. He thinks states and localities should be free to choose the election system right for them. Instead, he proposed "a centralized effort to evaluate the effectiveness of election equipment." He wonders if the U.S. Election Assistance Commission, an independent federal agency created in 2002, could publish something akin to Consumer Reports for voting technology to help states and localities make smart purchasing decisions.But Benson, the Democratic secretary of state, says "local variation can lead to potential vulnerabilities." She says its "low-hanging fruit" for the federal government to ensure all election systems meet certain basic standards.Their priorities also differ on the issue of voter fraud. While it doesn't appear to be a concern for Benson, Merrill mentioned the problem in his testimony, noting that six people in his state were convicted of crimes related to voter fraud. The Brennan Center says voter fraud is " vanishingly rare ."Benson hopes this weekends gathering with other secretaries will be "a sincere effort to find common ground." She approached Merrill about the Alabama trip at a National Association of Secretaries of State meeting back in February, knowing that reforming elections isnt something you can do alone."The threats to the security of our elections didnt begin in 2016, we know for certain they wont end in 2020," Benson told the House committee. "Only through a unified approach and long-term commitment and investment can we adequately support our election infrastructure and provide a voting system in which Americans will rightly place their trust."Fudge, however, ended her questioning saying she was "more concerned now then when you came in about how easily our systems are compromised." Government Technology,One of our investors, Steve Case from the Rise of the Rest Fund, talks about the "Third Wave," which is an entrepreneurial movement focused on the unsexy markets. These markets are critical industries and provide critical services from the standpoint of how society functions. That's exactly what we're seeing here, the government is critical infrastructure to the way that society operates.But for decades, there has not been much investment in innovation around government. What we're seeing today is startups, entrepreneurs and companies small and large recognizing real pain points in government that can be solved with innovation and new technology. We've been fortunate, and I've been fortunate personally, to be an entrepreneur at this time and catch this Third Wave. When you build companies that are successful, that grow, that deliver real value to the customer, that ultimately comes back as revenue and investor returns. Investors have seen that happen with other companies in the space, and our news today is yet another data point that gov tech is a market worth investing in.Laser focus. We have been laser-focused on our core value proposition and how to best serve our customers. Even as we reached a thousand customers, it may have been tempting to go off in different directions and get complacent with our core value proposition.At ArchiveSocial, our core tenet has been to provide the best possible, most comprehensive, most reliable social media archiving service available. This is so critical for our business because we exist in an evolving landscape where social networking platforms change all the time. We made a concerted effort to remain focused on our core value proposition and not get complacent. We've invested in product, we've invested in continuing to educate the market and now, 18 months later, we're at a different stage in our company. We will absolutely continue our primary focus on public records compliance. But we recognize now that we have the capacity, particularly with this investment, to expand our focus and provide other types of value to our customers.It's important for entrepreneurs and small companies to recognize where you are as a company. Have you really mastered your core focus and have you stayed focused long enough to truly deliver that value proposition? Are you continuing to deliver value to your customers day in and day out? And if you're not, you should remain focused on that. It's not about funding, or anything else but delivering value to your customers.In any company's life cycle there are different stages of the company and we're very fortunate to get to the stage that we are at today in terms of growth and to have the growth potential in front of us. Despite being a company that's been largely organically bootstrapped, we are in a different stage as a company. Growth equity plays a very important role in taking a company like ours to that next phase, giving us the financial backing to be able to make bigger investments in our product and in our focus areas.It's important for companies to recognize that it's not about funding. It's really about what are you trying to accomplish; where are you going and are you methodical and confident in your approach, and leveraging the appropriate resources available to you. For us at this stage of growth, growth equity is that resource to really help ArchiveSocial to get to that next level of serving our customers.There's no question or secret in the investment community that right now is a great time to raise money based on valuations, available capital and the general public markets. The best advice I have for fellow entrepreneurs is to be really introspective on why you're choosing to raise money and why it's a good idea now. Too many companies raise money because that's just the thing to do. There's a lot of pressure for entrepreneurs and early companies to demonstrate success by raising money.Raising money in itself is not success; it's a means to support the success you already have. Companies should pay attention to the product-market fit they have and the growth path that they're already on. They should look at money as a way to accelerate success in a confident path rather than as a solution to not having confidence or an actual path forward.It starts with the philosophy, "Treat others as you would like to be treated." That causes all of us at ArchiveSocial to operate as authentic human beings. Whether it's a cold sales call, webinar, or that first onboarding, almost everything we do is remote. By being authentic, you can capture a majority of that human relationship.Now being in person certainly is ideal because there's nothing that can quite compete with face to face. We do take the opportunities to sponsor conferences and attend them. And it's been important for me personally as the head of the company, from when we started to today, to get to as many conferences as possible. It's also important for my executive team to get in the market to shake hands and talk to agencies. That's gone a long way.I can't underscore enough the fact that government is a relationship-based market, both between vendor and government agency, but also agency to agency. The most important thing to do as a company is to treat each and every customer as important. Agencies talk to each other, and we've been fortunate that when agencies talk to each other, they're often saying nice things about us because of our approach.My most important lesson in government is to treat every agency, large and small, as important. Because every agency and government is critical and it exists for a reason. Every agency plays a role in the fabric of society. When we serviced the Obama administration, we treated our incoming, small town customers as important as the White House. Our approach has been to give everybody the top level of service because the way you treat one agency is how you're treating the whole market.Second, it's critical to understand the role that government and the people who work in government play in society. It's easy as a vendor to gloss over government and get stuck believing the typical stereotypes around government. What I found is that most of those stereotypes are not true regardless of your political bent. The agencies and the individuals that we work with aren't there just to take a paycheck. They're there for a real reason, and they're solving real problems. Many of them have a social mission to serve the general public and are trying to do the best they can with very limited resources. The moment you recognize that, it changes your approach and how you convey your value proposition to somebody that has limited resources. You must be prepared to show government employees that they can excel in their job and their agencies can excel in their mission by leveraging your product. Senators Introduce AI in Government Act San Antonio to Help Interested Parties Learn About its Smart City Data Sets Syracuse University Establishes Institute for Autonomous Systems Policy Gov Tech Jobs with Philadelphia and the National Park Service A new paper from the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities (CBPP) has detailed how government can better leverage text messaging to bolster public benefits programs.The paper, dubbed Leveraging Text Messaging to Improve Communications in Safety Net Programs is part of a series that details knowledge from the Integrated Benefits Initiative, within which civic technologists are using human-centered design to improve access to safety net programs. The idea behind the series is to offer practical guidance to state government and others who build user-centered services within the public safety net. The paper is by Jennifer Wagner, a senior policy analyst with the CBPP.The crux of this particular paper is, essentially, that text done right can facilitate better communication between government and the users of safety net programs.To take full advantage of this communication channel, agencies would do well to identify effective uses for text messages, obtain opt-ins from clients and navigate privacy and security concerns, Wagner writes.The paper goes on to note that low-income families who use these programs also have come to increasingly rely on text messaging to communicate, with texting being the most-frequently used functionality among smartphone owners. Text messages being nearly instantaneous, visual and easily used as a record make them a great means of communication in this context. The paper also notes that texting is best used in a supplementary capacity for other more traditional communication methods, rather than as a total replacement.In other words, texting is a great way to disseminate bits of info such as appointment times, deadlines and approval statuses, but there should always be other means of communicating as well.The Integrated Benefits Initiative from which the paper draws its lessons is a continuing project that consists of a collaboration between Code for America, Nava PBC, and CBPP. Its made up of five small-scale pilot projects nationwide, and a mixture of design, technical, product and policy expertise to help states learn to use human-centered design to improve their services for the digital age.A group of bipartisan senators has introduced the Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Government Act , which is aimed at improving the federal governments use of AI by fostering access to technical expertise within agencies, among other things.The legislation was introduced by Sen. Brian Schatz, D-Hawaii; Sen. Cory Gardner, R-Colo.; Sen. Rob Portman, R-Ohio; and Sen. Kamala Harris, D-Calif. This marks a reintroduction of legislation by the same group. The first time they put the bill forward was in September, when it stalled near the end of the previous Congressional session.The bill, if passed, would create a Center of Excellence for AI, streamline related hiring within agencies, create a governmental advisory board on AI, and direct the Office of Personnel Management to pinpoint the skills that employees need to be proficient with the emerging technology. The bill is essentially a broad effort to just make the government better at preparing for and dealing with the use of AI.There seems to be a growing consensus among those in power at all levels that tackling AI, so to speak, is vital moving forward. In fact, earlier this year the White House launched a new website dedicated to AI, dubbed Artificial Intelligence for the American People . This is basically an informational hub for an increased effort toward helping the country stay at the forefront of the technology as it becomes increasingly vital. There are several AI-related sections on the site, including those related to innovation, industry and American values.The new legislation has some powerful support from across sectors, having already garnered endorsements from the Center for Data Innovation, the Committee for Justice, the Data Coalition, Engine, the Institute for Electrical and Electronics Engineers, the Internet Association, Lincoln Network, Microsoft and Facebook, among others.San Antonio is hosting an event on Monday, May 13, aimed at helping attendees learn more about its SmartSA smart city data sets.Dubbed Datathon Datadive, tickets are available now online . The city will have subject matter experts on hand to field inquiries about the data sets and other information that it has made available online for the public in recent years, specifically the SmartSA data sets. Meanwhile, experts from Google Could and RESPEC will also be in attendance, providing private-sector expertise about the Google Cloud Platform.The event is free to attend.Syracuse University has announced a new Autonomous Systems Policy Institute aimed at helping to address questions related to the increasing prevalence of the technology, which includes new innovations such as self-driving cars and drone delivery.The creation of the institute was announced this week at the schools inaugural Autonomous Systems Policy Symposium by Chancellor Kent Syverud. It will include research and teaching of the fast-growing field.The Autonomous Systems Policy Institute will leverage the policy leadership expertise of Syracuse Universitys top-ranked Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs, Syverud said in a statement. In concert with experts from across all of Syracuse Universitys schools and colleges, the institute will address an urgent societal need while providing opportunities for research and student experiences that cross disciplines.The institute is expected to address a range of themes and questions, including whose values should be baked in to the AI that drives autonomous systems, what should the legal definition of a driver be with autonomous vehicles becoming more common, and what new social divisions will be created by the adoption of this technology?Syracuses new institute is a relatively rare thing. The school reported in its announcement that a review it conducted found fewer than 40 such programs, centers or other initiatives at major colleges and universities in the United States. It went on to note that, few, or none, are focused on the full landscape of autonomous systems and the broader societal implications in the way that this new institute will be.Syracuses new institute, of course, aims to change that.The summer bike and brewery season is back, and, as such, the civic tech group Code for Anchorage has updated its bike to brewery map Reminding us once again that civic tech can, indeed, be a lot of fun, this map shows optimal routes for biking between 11 breweries in Anchorage, Alaska, each of which is represented by a cute little orange frothy beer mug icon.A subsequent investigation byinto biking conditions in Anchorage (a quick visit to weather.com) shows that todays high in the city is 54 degrees, which sounds a little chilly but is probably prime biking weather following the Alaskan winter.Finally, there are a pair of cool gov tech job openings this week.The first is a SmartCityPHL director in Philadelphia. That position was recently vacated after Ellen Hwang departed to become the Knight Foundations Philadelphia-based local program director. The posting can be found here. Meanwhile, the National Park Service is looking to hire an IT specialist, based in either Washington, D.C., Reston, Va., or Lakewood, Colo. You can find that posting here . The posting notes that the position is also remote friendly. (TNS) Nearly 350 parents of students in the Eanes Independent School District in Austin, Texas, have signed a petition requesting the district place their children in a classroom that does not use iPads.Eanes Elementary parent Meaghan Edwards is leading the effort after her first grader was able to view photos of topless and scantily clad women in racy poses on his school-assigned iPad. She and other parents plan to present their concerns to the school board.The petition has drawn assurances from the district that safety measures are in place and usually work and has sparked debate among parents in online forums and on social media over the merits of technology in the classroom.Edwards said her son and another student began looking at inappropriate pictures while in class in early March. Both kids screen shot the Google images to their device. When other classmates saw what they were looking at, the teacher was alerted and called Edwards in for a conference.Edwards said she was bothered by what she saw as a lack of cybersecurity and concern at the district level. She started the petition to allow parents to opt their children out of the Learning and Engaging through Access and Personalization or LEAP (iPad) program. All Eanes students are assigned iPads to use for schoolwork. Elementary students only use them in the classroom, but middle and high school students are allowed to bring the tablets home."We are asking for the district to create one classroom per grade level that does not use an iPad," Edwards said. "I just don't think every child needs their own personal (device). It's too much for the district to manage, obviously, and we are seeing the iPads being used inappropriately."Several parents are weighing in on both sides of the issue. Some have touted the benefits of the iPads to advance student knowledge and skills, while others have said iPads have opened the door to access inappropriate websites and have a negative impact on communication skills.Last year at Bridgepoint Elementary, a second grader was working on her iPad when a pop-up ad appeared showing a topless woman and vulgar language, according to sources familiar with the incident. District officials confirmed they were informed by the school about the matter.Superintendent Tom Leonard said the district has firewalls, web filters and cybersecurity in place for each of the devices but that sometimes inappropriate content can make it through the filters."It's not a situation where information is just flashing onto student's screens that is inappropriate," Leonard said. "The firewall is protecting that. We also know there are thousands of websites that come into existence often. The firewall needs to analyze those, and it takes some time to do that."He said the district uses the best cybersecurity systems it can find and frequently upgrades when better products come on the market."I think we know in this world that no firewall is 100 percent failsafe," Leonard said. "Our (system) is pretty darn good."He noted that money in the bond package voters approved on Saturday will go toward technology improvements. While there have been some issues reported by parents, Leonard said the program has been positive and beneficial for many other students and teachers. For example, he said, teachers can enlarge font on iPads for students with vision problems. The iPad also has audio features so students can listen to text read aloud.Kelly Marwill, incoming booster club president for Cedar Creek Elementary, said her daughter has improved her reading comprehension with the iPad reader program and has become more confident in her skills."My daughter struggles with the anxiety of making a mistake while she's reading in front of the class," Marwill said. "With the iPad, she can read it, it records her, and then her teacher can go back and listen to it. And there are comprehension questions at the end. She went from an average reader to reading a whole grade level above in just a few months."Other parents have said that the iPad gives their children the ability to work independently on math and other skills without disturbing the class. For middle and high school aged students, it allows them to collaborate with other students on class projects.Not all parents are convinced iPads advance their children's education, however. Some who signed the digital petition posted concerns over excessive screen time and non-academic use of iPads. Similar concerns emerged at digital learning meetings among parents last fall.Edwards said district officials have not adequately responded to parents' worries."What concerns me is there were no web filters in place to prevent the kids from accessing these images and it did not get flagged (by the teacher or district)," she said. "In my house, if my kids are using the iPad, I look at their browser history every night."Leonard said the district frequently tracks students' browsing history. As the software improves, he said the district will be alerted to more incidents. A new program the district is piloting will allow parents to monitor browsing history at home as well. Digital wellness resources are also available for parents to help monitor screen time, teach parents about parental controls and about cyberbullying and social media.Since the Eanes Elementary incident in March, the district has tightened restrictions on Internet content students can access during the school day, officials said, and additional web filters have been placed on devices to block search results for mature content.As for eliminating the program, Leonard said the district could create an environment without technology, but it would be difficult. He said creating iPad-free classrooms would make teachers' jobs more difficult and noted that the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills standards sometimes require the use of technology, which the district would have to find a way to supplement.The district issued an email to parents May 7 acknowledging the iPad debate and informing parents of the Eanes approach to technology in the classroom. In the email, Leonard stressed moderation in technology use and emphasized the partnership among parents, the district and teachers."We appreciate your help as we navigate a rapidly changing world with technology devices," Leonard said. "Together, we are able to ensure students remain healthy and safe, while also equipping them with the learning tools and self-disciplines for future success."Sam Goodner, a member of the Eanes task force on digital learning created last fall, said the district needs to communicate better with parents about how technology is used in the classroom at each grade level. But, he said, there is no "perfect solution" to the iPad debate."I've spoken to parents who share Meaghan's concern, and there is a pretty vocal minority who would prefer to not see any technology at all until high school," he Goodner said. "I think technology does give teachers and their classrooms tools and capability to do things that are not possible on pen and paper or white board. (The) iPads are a very small part of the tools they use, especially in elementary school." Philadelphia has consolidated its geographic information officer and chief data officer positions into one role.Hank Garie, who was hired in February as the geographic information officer, will now fill the new dual position, the Philadelphia Office of Innovation and Technology announced this week. CIO Mark Wheeler said the move comes after overlap between the two roles had steadily increased in recent years. Initially, Wheeler sought to hire a new chief data officer to function separately from Garie. To cut down on overlap, he envisioned that person taking more of a technical focus, having less to do with public-facing projects like those undertaken by the geo team, projects like Philadelphias Atlas and vacant property mapping . Candidates, however, had other ideas.The interest wasnt really there, Wheeler said. People really wanted to do what [Garie] was doing. At the end of the day, it just made sense to put the two titles together.In his new role, Garie will be charged with uniting tabular data and spatial content, bringing them together in a seamless way. Having the two roles together will also help to create standards within the work for how data is integrated.Garie said that much of the citys data has an extant spatial component, and with that in mind, part of his goal for the work is to enhance that data to the point it can fully be brought into a spatial environment, enabling the use of analytics and visualizations.Philadelphia being able to combine the two roles, Wheeler said, also owes to a robust interest in data that has existed in the city hall there going back a decade. Whereas many local governments continue to struggle with breaking down silos and finding ways to share data between departments, Philadelphia overcame many of those challenges years ago thanks to a grass-roots, data-driven relationship network taking hold in city hall.Garie said doing both jobs in an environment that has that kind of culture will negate the need to focus on small-scale daily fires, instead allowing him and his team to focus on larger initiatives aimed at really helping to improve data-driven decision-making at the executive level.This move fits into a larger effort to focus and consolidate tech work in Philadelphia. Wheeler has also recently hired a new director for a unified software development team, and he will soon hire a director of enterprise products. Currently, the tech department doesnt have product managers or an ownership process, which makes it harder to create customer satisfaction standards around the work they do. The new director will be able to take ownership of that.Garie brings more than 30 years of experience directing data management organizations. He also served as the first geographic information officer for New Jersey before transitioning to the federal government, where he led a list of national geospatial programs, the most notable of which was Geospatial One Stop . Wheeler himself preceded Garie in Philadelphias geographic information role before being promoted to CIO last year.Philadelphias last CDO was Tim Wisniewski, who stepped down in January. One of the more prominent bills within the package would create a corporate notification requirement relative to data breaches. The bill, introduced by Assemblyman Chad Mayes, originally would have asked that companies notify consumers within 72 hours of a data breach. However, the bills text now gives companies a window of 45 days to notify affected consumers. This would still put tighter restrictions on companies, which, according to current California laws, must notify consumers in the most expedient time possible and without unreasonable delay. The bill recently exited the P&CP Committee and will be voted on in the House. A bill that would have allowed consumers to request that social media companies delete their personal data after they had closed their accounts has been pulled from consideration. The bill would have also prohibited companies from "selling that information to, or exchanging that information with, a third party in the future, subject to specified exceptions." The bill, which was introduced by Assemblyman Jordan Cunningham, was pulled from consideration in the P&CP Committee and has instead been converted into a two-year bill, which means Cunningham will continue to do work on it with the hope of reintroducing it next year. He is committed to continuing to work on that bill over the course of this year, said Nick Mirman, legislative aide to Cunningham. Its been tabled for the rest of this year and we plan on continuing to work with stakeholders to craft a bill that accomplishes the same goals that the Assemblyman has. The "Anti-Eavesdropping Act," also sponsored by Cunningham, would curb the kind of data collection that tech companies can conduct through smart devices like Amazon Alexa or a Google Home device. The bill would ban companies from storing and selling data collected through voice commands without written consent from individual consumers. The bill recently exited the P&CP Committee and is expected to be voted on in the next few weeks, said Mirman. The "Family Green Light Bill is being sponsored by Assemblyman James Gallagher and would require social media companies to receive a parent or guardians permission before a child under the age of 16 could use their platforms. The point of the bill is to give parents greater control over the amount of social media they are exposed to, Cunningham said in an interview with Techwire . The legislation recently exited the Committee on Appropriations and is currently on the Assembly floor and will be voted on in the coming weeks, said a representative of Gallaghers office. . The legislation recently exited the Committee on Appropriations and is currently on the Assembly floor and will be voted on in the coming weeks, said a representative of Gallaghers office. A non-binding resolution on 21st Century Monopolies had been announced as part of the bill package that would have called on Congress and the Federal Trade Commission to update federal anti-trust laws to be more effective with a particular eye toward reining in big tech companies. However, the language within the resolution has yet to be clarified, according to Cunningham. Were still working on the language of it, he said. Were trying to build a broad coalition and get a consensus and be thoughtful about it. ... Monopolistic behavior, like all large aggregations of power, historically is really bad for the little guy and the public. A privacy legislation package designed to give added protections to consumers while also augmenting the landmark California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) is making its way through the state Legislature though its contents have changed significantly since originally introduced.The Your Data Your Way initiative was introduced in late January by a cadre of Republican Assemblymembers, with the basis being additional data privacy protections.A number of bills in the package recently made their way through the state Committee on Privacy and Consumer Protection (P&CP) and now face a potential vote on the Assembly floor. If the bills pass the Assembly, they will then move on to the Senate and come one step closer to becoming law.However, the package has gone through significant changes during committee process with some pieces of legislation remaining largely unscathed, while others have been tabled or substantially altered.The initiative when initially introduced consisted of five pieces of legislation:The initiatives larger goal to augment and hone the regulatory framework put forth by the CCPA is an important one, according to Cunningham.I was proud to vote for it, Cunningham said of the CCPA during an interview with, while also noting that he felt it was passed in quite a hurry. ...There are some issues that need to be cleaned up. ...We need to make sure that were narrowly tailoring [the legislation] to the problem. But its a strong law its stronger than anything we have federally.Ultimately, Cunningham said, he felt that privacy was an issue that both sides of the political spectrum could come together on.Privacy is a very bipartisan I would even say nonpartisan issue, he said. Im very thankful to have colleagues on both sides of the aisle willing to take on this fight. There are some very well-financed groups that have a lot of clout that have thus far opposed these bills, but Im willing always to collaborate with anybody to accomplish the goal. (TNS) Dallas County, Texas, has effectively lost all control over a court-case tracking software project that has already cost taxpayers $30 million with nothing to show for it, commissioners say.The commissioners said at Tuesdays meeting they were blindsided to learn in April that their decision to pause spending on the TechShare.Court program means they ceded control of it, as well as existing software programs the county uses to manage juvenile cases and others.Commissioner J.J. Koch gave a presentation at Tuesday's meeting about how the county's voting strength was diluted. The result is that Tarrant County is now fully in charge of all TechShare decisions, he said.Now, officials in North Texas' two biggest counties are locked in a power struggle over the costly project.The Texas Conference of Urban Counties established TechShare in 2004 as a way to help counties collaborate to build tech solutions.The counties recently decided to move TechShare under a semi-independent entity known as a local government corporation. Under the LGC, each county receives apportioned voting strength based on how much capital costs it has paid toward TechShare's programs, such as the unfinished courts software and the existing juvenile case management system.But Dallas County decided earlier this year to suspend payments toward the unfinished court software. By then, the project had gone millions of dollars over budget after years of missed deadlines. At an April 17 meeting of the new body governing how counties steer TechShare projects, Koch said he along with fellow Commissioner Theresa Daniel and County Administrator Darryl Martin were "completely caught off guard" when they learned Dallas County now has only 25 percent voting strength in the TechShare LGC.Tarrant County, meanwhile, has 63 percent of the vote. Collin, Denton, Johnson, Midland, Potter and Travis counties each have 2 percent voting strength."In moving to this LGC, the new body, we have given complete control over TechShare to [Tarrant County] Judge Glen Whitley," Koch said.Dallas County officials and Whitley are at odds over whether can Dallas remain an active participant in the courts project. If the county isn't deemed active, then the money it has already spent toward the courts software doesn't count toward voting power.Dallas County officials say they still consider themselves active participants in the TechShare.Court project; theyve put millions toward the program, and the county hasn't pulled out of it completely.But Whitley said Dallas County isn't "active" because it skipped a $600,000 payment for operation and maintenance costs. That means Dallas County's capital payment for TechShare.Court doesn't count toward its voting strength, Whitley said.Dallas County's 25 percent voting strength is based on the premise that the county has contributed $6.5 million to TechShare projects that the county is actively participating in, according to Koch's presentation. But the county's $10 million expenditures in capital costs for the courts software aren't included in that calculation.If that money was added, Dallas' voting strength would increase considerably, but it's unclear by exactly how much.Commissioner John Wiley Price believes Dallas is getting shorted either way. He asked during Tuesday's meeting how $30 million the figure commissioners and county staff repeatedly cited as the total cost of the courts software so far could have "evaporated" from the calculations.Whitley said that the $30 million figure includes "implementation" costs, which don't count toward voting strength.He faulted Dallas County for racking up those costs because it kept changing its goals for the courts software."I know that they paid a lot of money," Whitley said. "The frustrating part was that they kept changing what was being requested ... There was a continuous changing of what was requested or things were added or things were changed, so everybody was frustrated."Because of the costs and delays, Dallas County in March hired outside consultants to analyze the project.But Whitley's Dallas County counterpart, Judge Clay Jenkins, said TechShare leadership, including LGC executive director John Dahill, has declined to meet or speak with the consultants.Jenkins said the consultants tried to get information from the LGC and Whitley but faced "some concern that the information would be used against Mr. Dahill and others," he said.Dahill declined to comment for this story.Now, Dallas County faces questions about a path forward. Whitley, in Tarrant County, said if Dallas County leaders want to increase the county's voting strength by becoming an active participant in the courts project, they have a simple solution: pay the $600,000 they owe in operation and maintenance costs.But Koch, who questioned the TechShare project during his campaign last year, said Dallas County is now in a game it can't win. He called Whitley a "ruthless manipulator" who could easily cut Dallas County out of the products for which it has paid millions.We paid our ticket, we deserve a ride, Koch said. Because that $30 million has been taken off of our score sheet, we are now completely held hostage by Judge Whitley and whatever he wants to do.Koch said the commissioners court is no longer on a "wait-and-see" path with TechShare, though they haven't officially decided on a plan of action. He said Whitley is "someone who's willing to manipulate and willing to act aggressively.""We have to start to protect our interests," Koch said.Whitley said Koch's characterization is unfair. If Tarrant County was trying to manipulate Dallas County, Whitley said, then Dallas County's representative on the TechShare LGC, Commissioner Daniel, could have voted against the LGC's bylaws. But she didn't.Daniel did not respond to a request for comment.Whitley said the voting strength issue was not meant to be "punitive toward Dallas.""This is the way we've always done it," Whitley said. (TNS) A systems analyst for the city of San Diego says he is being discriminated against by his employer after he raised questions about how the city manages security for thousands of laptops, smartphones and other mobile devices, documents filed with the city show.Wendell Richardson, an information technology analyst, said this week in an interview the continuing discrimination is threatening his recovery from multiple sclerosis.City officials dispute his security warnings and declined to comment on his employment service.According to documents Richardson and his lawyer sent to city officials, Richardson reported what he said are potential IT security threats last spring, telling supervisors that the city was not adequately protecting its confidential data and had no way to track or disable a lost device.This is a security breach, he said in an interview. Anything that has access to city data needs to be able to be tracked or disabled. Thats just common sense.City officials issued a statement Tuesday defending the way they safeguard confidential data.The city of San Diego takes the security of employee information very seriously and has many security measures in place to protect data, it said. The city has investigated Mr. Richardsons data-protection claims and found no breach of employee data or privacy.Complicating the dispute over the citys cybersecurity practices is Richardsons employment status after a recent medical diagnosis.Richardson, who was hired three years ago and was named Environmental Services department employee of the quarter in July, was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis last summer, according to the citys reasonable accommodation medical documentation form.He and his supervisors reached whats called a reasonable accommodations agreement in September. Their mutually agreed upon plan spelled out terms for how Richardson would continue working for the city while managing his treatment, largely by working at home when he needed to, according to the form, which was signed in September.Since then, Richardson said, his supervisors have not followed the agreement. In letters his attorney wrote the city in December and January, Richardson said his supervisors are not allowing him to work from home as needed and had added new duties to his job description, such as the requirement that he be able to lift up to 50 pounds.He said the city stopped paying him last month, and now he worries about losing his health insurance.City officials declined to discuss Richardsons employment status, but they asserted in correspondence to him that Richardson failed to provide all of the medical records requested by the city, did not work as many four-hour shifts at City Hall as he agreed to and missed meetings, among other things.Richardson, who is 36, said he disputes this and notes that the citys response followed his reporting the alleged failure to comply with city regulations governing mobile devices.Under Administrative Regulation 90.66, the citys six-page mobile device security policy, devices that access the city email system or the internal network should have remote wipe functionality in case they are lost or stolen, among other protections.The same policy requires users to immediately notify the IT service desk if a device is lost or stolen.This ensures that connectivity between the device and the city network can be terminated in a timely manner and that the device can be wiped remotely, the policy states.In an email obtained by, the citys chief information security officer addresses those concerns in an email earlier this week, after he received a report that a city employee had lost a smartphone earlier this year.In this case, the lost device that you were concerned about was not immediately reported to the security team, Darren Bennett wrote to Richardson.However, once the security team was made aware of the lost device, the team reviewed access attempts to the city network and determined there had been no access attempt since two days prior to the device being lost, Bennett added. The security team also locked the user account. There is no reason to believe that any data breach occurred.The chief cybersecurity officer told Richardson that the city uses a variety of means to protect data, including following industry best practices and utilizing a layered security approach to safeguarding data.Thank you for bringing your concerns to the citys attention, Bennett concluded. We always welcome suggestions to improve and are constantly evolving the security of the city as threats change.Bennett declined to answer questions about city compliance with its mobile device security rules. City spokeswoman Katie Keach also declined to explain whether the city is capable of tracking lost smartphones or remotely disabling or wiping the devices, as called for in the regulations.The city follows best practices but we dont disclose details of our security strategy and tools, she wrote in a brief statement.Keach said she was unable to respond to Richardsons claim that his supervisors were not meeting terms of the reasonable-accommodations agreement due to employee confidentiality rules.In regard to Mr. Richardsons other allegations, the city does not comment on personnel matters, she wrote.Richardson was placed on involuntary medical leave last month after supervisors said he did not appear at work or meet other terms of the agreement. Carlos Sainz will be the only Spanish driver on the grid for his home Grand Prix this weekend. The McLaren driver recalled Liverpool's Champions League triumph at home early this week for optimism ahead of racing in front of his home fans. Sainz usually has Fernando Alonso to distract the fans in Barcelona, but for the first time this weekend, the attention will be fully focused on himself. During the drivers' press conference, Sainz was asked about how he is dealing with the added attention. "It's incredible how time goes by so quickly, I remember my first year here in 2015 and I get to spend more time with the fans, it's brilliant. Probably this weekend I'll be busier, but it's not something that affects me too much or I notice in particular but it's not a bad thing," Sainz said. "With what happened to Liverpool, you can see the crowd behind you and I think it will help me also." Sainz has had some good results in Barcelona when driving for Renault, but he doesn't believe that will just simply transfer now he's in a McLaren. "I think one of the main reasons for the points is because the car I was racing with was [faster] on this track. But I've been comfortable around this track, I like the track and the challenge with the fans behind me," Sainz added. Follow GPblog now on Twitter, YouTube, and Facebook! At re:publica, the digital conference in Berlin, Porsche launched the ideas competition Mobility for a Better World. Together with its partners, Porsche is looking for fresh ideas and technology for the sustainable future of mobility. Start-ups, students and developers can now submit their projects. A total of 20,000 euros in prize money, educational packages and development support in cooperation with the Porsche Digital Lab and the APX accelerator await the participants. The deadline for submitting ideas is 30 August 2019. The winners will be announced during Porsche Sustainability Week in October this year. Mobility for a Better World is an ideas competition at the intersection of technology, mobility and sustainability asking how visions for a sustainable future could look. Creative ideas and solutions, regardless of their degree of maturity, can now be submitted in the four categories of People, Wheels, Cities and Trust via an application form on Porsches technology blog. The projects submitted will be evaluated by a jury of experts. This consists of Daniela Rathe (Head of Policy and External Relations at Porsche); Anja Hendel (Head of the Porsche Digital Lab); Thomas Bachem (Founder & Chancellor of CODE University of Applied Sciences); Robert Martin (Porsche Digital / APX); Franz W. Rother (Editor-in-Chief EDISON); and Patrick Bungard (Director Center for Advanced Sustainable Management at Cologne Business School and Managing Director M3TRIX). The prizes for the four winners include 5,000 per category, a comprehensive educational package focusing on artificial intelligence (AI) and blockchain, as well as specific support from the Porsche Digital Lab and the Berlin Accelerator APX. Participants aged 18 and over can apply, either as a team or as an individual and the ideas competition is being pitched internationally. Don Van Matre, a long-serving Sweetwater County Commissioner and former mayor of Green River, died early Thursday morning at Memorial Hospital of Sweetwater County. He was 76. Flags were flown at half-mast Monday in both Sweetwater County and the state offices in Cheyenne from sunrise to sunset in Van Matres honor. Van Matre grew up in the Farson-Eden area before joining the U.S. Army. He served as an aviator during the Vietnam War, earning a Bronze Star. He would later command an air base in Panama and was a professor of military science at the University of Wisconsin before returning t... Sweetwater County officially received its first Gateway West Impact payment Tuesday. During the Sweetwater County Commissioners meeting Tuesday morning, the Commissioners heard an update from Sweetwater County Treasurer Robb Slaughter about the impact funding the county is receiving. Slaughter said the county received its first payment of $254,155.56 Tuesday and is supposed to receive this same amount each month for the next 15 months from the Industrial Siting Council. Slaughter said the total should be about $3.8 million. These amounts will be distributed to those impacted by the Gateway... Featuring locally-sourced, beetle-kill pine and brick cladding designed to echo buttes and mesas, the Sweetwater County Justice Center earned an award for its design by the International Interior Design Association Intermountain Chapter. The Sweetwater County Justice Center was recently selected for a design award for its innovative and functional design. The justice center was designed to house two Third Circuit Courts, the Sweetwater County Sheriff's Department, Sweetwater County attorney's department and the Wyoming public defenders' offices. "It brought everything into one location," Sweetwater County Facilities Director Chuck Radosevich said. The success of the justice center has earned a BEST Award from the International Interior Design Association Intermountain Chapter in the "Serve" category. BEST stands for "Brilli... Western Wyoming Community College hosted the Percy Hadley Welding Contest on April 12 and three Green River students took the top spots. The Percy Hadley Welding Contest is an annual high-school welding competition hosted by Western. Each high school in Westerns service area is allowed three senior competitors. The 13 high school students who competed came from Rock Springs, Green River, Big Piney and Greybull. The contest consists of a written exam and a practical welding project. Welding inspection students, those who receive 60 hours of welding inspection training, from Western, are... The Wyoming Writers Conference is scheduled to take place in June and those interested in attending can start registering May 15. Brad Wilson, professor and director of the University of Wyomings creative writing program, will deliver the keynote address during the 2019 Wyoming Writers, Inc., conference. His presentation, Youre Talking to Yourself, will be given during the conference banquet June 8. Watsons writing has been honored by the American Academy of Arts and Letters, the National Endowment of the Arts, and the Guggenheim Foundation. His first novel, The Heaven o... After painful losses, the state has finally gotten an economic win. "A world-class company has taken notice of the way we do things. This company could have gone anywhere in the world, but they chose North Carolina," said Machelle Sanders, North Carolina's Secretary of Commerce. Hes our gateway to allow the children to relax a little more and become more comfortable with the volunteer officers who come in and work with students, Talbert said. Porters also a gateway to get local residents to feel comfortable around officers, she said. Talbert takes him to stores, businesses and public locations helping to continue his training and spread the joy to others. Looking to meet Porter? Talbert said they have been known to ride the carousel at the mall. They love him, Talbert said. The kids, the adults, they all love him. In the future, Porter will also work with trauma victims, although police officials say their newest recruit is in such demand hes stretched thin already. Besides, he needs some additional training for that role. Hes already getting practice from the officers who are dealing with trauma and stressful situations throughout the work day. Everyone in the department, including Scott, stops by to see Porter for a little dose of happiness now and then. A bill that would make it illegal to continue to have sex with someone who told the other person to stop has died in a state Senate committee, reports Carolina Public Press. North Carolina may remain the only state in the country where someone cannot be charged with rape for continuing to have sex with a partner who told them to stop. It stems from a 40-year-old legal precedent. Senate Bill 563 would have changed state law to eliminate the loophole. It had 12 co-sponsors but never had a hearing. Most state Senate action ceased earlier this week. State Sen. Jeff Jackson, D-Mecklenburg, was one of the bills co-sponsors. He has tried to advance similar proposals since 2015. Despite the demise of the Senate measure, it remains possible for a similar provision to be added to another piece of legislation. A state representative who has sponsored a separate bill reversing other precedents affecting sexual assaults told Carolina Public Press late Wednesday that he would not object to the addition of such language to his bill, which passed the House without opposition. The news conference was sponsored by the N.C. Fund for a Conservative Future, which also cited the results of a February poll of 800 registered voters in North Carolina that showed more than 70% support for Medicaid expansion. That number included not only 90.1% of Democrats, but 66.9% of unaffiliated voters and 52.4% of Republicans. That could be because the case for it is so obvious. Foremost, Medicaid expansion would provide care for North Carolinians who could otherwise afford none and would quite probably save a number of lives. It also would create as many as 40,000 jobs and help struggling rural hospitals. This issue is monumental to us, Chris Lumsden, CEO of Northern Hospital of Surry County, said during an April roundtable discussion among CEOs of rural hospitals in North Carolina. (Medicaid expansion) is something we can do today that will impact patient care and economic development down the road. Green, who retired from Duke Energy after 31 years and joined NTE nine years ago, said the company would absolutely have future interest in talking with local municipalities about providing their energy needs. In Kings Mountain, town officials announced they have cut residential and industrial rates by an average of 10.8% since NTE took over as their power supplier at the first of 2019. Green said the rate decrease is just a third of the towns savings. The other two-thirds are flowing into a capital fund for other municipal improvements, whatever they may be, Green said. He said the power supply is as reliable, if not more so, than what Kings Mountain had before at 25-30 percent of the cost. There are no surprises on their bills, and there (are) no environmental cleanup charges down the road. There is no rate cases that an industrial and utility bill have that will effect rates four or five years down the road, he said. The Reidsville Area Foundation, a local non-profit that has long supported the school system, allocated $35,200 in grant money to RCS expressly for equity training over two years. RCS used about $18,000 of that to complete the first year of training through a contract with University of North Carolina at Greensboro. But Monday nights action means the board will return the balance of roughly $17,000 to REF after its voted to cut further training funding. Board member Doug Isley made the proposal to remove funding before the board voted to approve the proposed 2019-2020 budget during its regular monthly meeting held at Reidsville High School auditorium. His motion, seconded by board member Bob Wyatt, passed with five members voting against funding the continuation of training. The boards sole minority member Amanda Bell, who is black, voted against elimination of the diversity training. Before the vote on Isleys proposal, retired educator Bell reminded fellow board members, three of whom were seated in January, the state board of education includes equity training as part of their strategic plan. STAMFORD When it opened, Ubers Greenlight Hub in Waterside was hailed as the place for any driver to get questions answered face-to-face, but on Wednesday, a group of disgruntled drivers werent even allowed inside the building. Instead, they were ordered to leave the private property, and Stamford police were called to make sure they left. It was a stark contrast to the fanfare that accompanied the opening of the building as the states first resource center for Uber drivers. The irony wasnt lost on driver Moses Dahn from New Haven. This building was put here for driver support, he said. We are here to give Uber this letter and Uber doesnt want to respond. The letter he wanted to hand-deliver urged Uber to not oppose a state bill that would require drivers get a set percentage of fares, while also attacking the company for the callous way in which you treat your employees as disposable. A portion of the letter reads, You should stop running Uber like a feudal estate or a plantation and instead engage respectfully with its drivers, your workforce. A coalition of Uber and Lyft drivers from New Haven have been pressuring Connecticut lawmakers to pass a pay standard like the minimum pay ordinance passed in New York City in December that sets an earnings floor of $17.22 an hour. Connecticut drivers currently have no minimum pay guarantees, but state legislators are set to discuss a bill that would not allow ride-hailing services to take more than 25 percent of the fare collected from a rider. Dahn and many other Uber and Lyft drivers across the state turned off their apps Wednesday morning between 7 a.m. and 9 a.m. to protest declining wages at a time when both companies are bringing in billions in profit. Protests took place in 10 U.S. cities, including Chicago, Los Angeles, New York, San Francisco and Washington, just ahead of Ubers initial public stock offering Friday. Uber hopes to raise $9 billion, putting the companys valuation in excess of $91 billion. The demonstrations across the country did not seem to cause much disruption, however, and many riders were still able to hail a car with ease. Uber, in a prepared statement, said it is focused on improving working conditions for drivers. Drivers are at the heart of our service we cant succeed without them and thousands of people come into work at Uber every day focused on how to make their experience better, on and off the road, the company said. Lyft claimed its drivers hourly earnings have increased over the last two years and that, on average, the companys drivers earn over $20 an hour before subtracting expenses such as gas and vehicle maintenance. We know that access to flexible, extra income makes a big difference for millions of people, and were constantly working to improve how we can best serve our driver community, Lyft said. Wednesday morning, a group of Uber drivers showed up to the companys Stamford location at 470 West Ave. hoping to speak to a representative. James Bhandary-Alexander, counsel to the striking workers, said Uber has avoided the drivers and their complaints. Theyre facing tens of thousands of drivers doing things like this all around the world today and theyre trying to say as little as possible, he said. After showing up, the drivers were told they could not park at the offices parking lot. Instead, they parked their cars in a no-parking area along the road directly in front of the building. Eventually, the drivers attempted to walk into the building on foot, but were stopped at the door and told they could not go in. Dahn asked an Uber representative at the door if they could turn in the letter detailing their displeasure with the company. After he was told they could not go any farther, he asked to speak to a supervisor. Eventually, the same representative returned and said the general manager would take the letter but would not speak to anyone. Hell come out and take the letter but will not answer any questions or do any interviews, the man said. Soon, police arrived on scene after receiving a call stating the protesting workers were blocking a driveway. Stamford officers told the drivers to leave the premises or else they would have to issue tickets to their illegally parked cars. After almost 20 minutes of waiting for the general manager to come down, the drivers left. Bhandary-Alexander told the group that Uber doesnt want to deal with them. The reason that you are not allowed to go into this building, which is only meant for drivers to interface with Uber, is because they dont like what youre going to say, he said. They dont like that youre standing up for your rights. Rosana Olan, who organized the Connecticut strike, was disheartened by Ubers response. I think we deserve some respect and dignity because we are making them rich, she said. Dahn has been driving with Uber for about a year and a half, and he said in that span of time, his take-home pay has diminished considerably. They think everyone who works for them are low-income people, people who didnt go to school, and they could just do whatever they want to, he said of Uber. They keep all of the money and give you nothing. Luis Fermin Diaz of New Haven, who was at the Stamford event, was an Uber driver for three years. He said the company ended his employment one day with no explanation. He has tried multiple times to get some answers with no luck. For Diaz, a father of three, it was a major setback since he purchased a car in 2015 in order to be a Uber driver. Imagine how hard its been for me to pay for the car and support my family, he said. ignacio.laguarda@hearstmediact.com WASHINGTON - Mark Zuckerberg's got 99 problems, and Chris Hughes is now one. Hughes, who cofounded Facebook with Zuckerberg in a Harvard dorm room 15 years ago, makes a passionate and lengthy case for breaking up the social media giant in a commentary published by The New York Times. NPR and NBC also aired interviews on Thursday with Hughes. "Mark's power is unprecedented and un-American," writes Hughes, a liberal who once owned the New Republic magazine. "Facebook's dominance is not an accident of history. The company's strategy was to beat every competitor in plain view, and regulators and the government tacitly - and at times explicitly - approved." Hughes faults regulators for being asleep at the wheel and specifically criticizes the Federal Trade Commission for approving of Facebook's acquisition of Instagram and WhatsApp. "Mark's influence is staggering, far beyond that of almost anyone else in the private sector or in government," he writes. "The most problematic aspect of Facebook's power is Mark's unilateral control over speech. There is no precedent for his ability to monitor, organize and even censor the conversations of two billion people." Facebook has increasingly been squeezed from the right and the left. The company's brand has taken an enormous hit since the Cambridge Analytica scandal, which spawned a series of investigations and intense scrutiny on both sides of the Atlantic, from the European Union to Canada and the U.S. Congress. Zuckerberg has been trying to get out front of calls to break up his company by calling for new regulations, expressing openness to more oversight and promising users recently that the social network will reorient itself to prioritize privacy. The 34-year-old is worth an estimated $62.3 billion. Forbes pegs him as the eighth richest person in the world. Facebook isn't afraid of "a few more rules," Hughes explains, because the company can afford to comply with them and pay billions in fines. Facebook recorded $15 billion in revenue during the first three months of this year, for instance, putting the publicly traded company on a pace to rake in $60 billion this year. The tech giant disclosed to shareholders last month that it expects a fine as high as $5 billion from the FTC for its mishandling of its users' personal information, and the markets shrugged. Hughes believes that the federal government bringing an antitrust case is the only way to bring real accountability, which he believes is why Facebook is so strongly against it. "Mark may never have a boss, but he needs to have some check on his power," Hughes writes. "The American government needs to do two things: break up Facebook's monopoly and regulate the company to make it more accountable to the American people. . . . Just breaking up Facebook is not enough. We need a new agency, empowered by Congress to regulate tech companies. Its first mandate should be to protect privacy." President Donald Trump threatened last Friday to "monitor" social media sites for their "censorship of AMERICAN CITIZENS" on the day after Facebook permanently banned far-right figures and organizations including the conspiracy theory site Infowars. The company also permanently banned users including Louis Farrakhan, the founder of the Nation of Islam who has been accused of anti-Semitism, along with far-right figures Milo Yiannopoulos, Laura Loomer and Alex Jones, the founder of Infowars. The company said their presence on Facebook and Instagram had become "dangerous." Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass.,has made breaking up Facebook and other big tech companies a major plank of her 2020 platform. Sen. Amy Klobuchar, D-Minn., the ranking Democrat on the Senate subcommittee that oversees antitrust and competition policy, talks constantly about the danger of monopolies on the campaign trail. This is not some obscure debate for law school faculty lounges any longer. Crowds eat it up - in rural Iowa. Hughes links Facebook's market power to the staggering, broader consolidation of corporate power. "In the past 20 years, more than 75 percent of American industries, from airlines to pharmaceuticals, have experienced increased concentration, and the average size of public companies has tripled," Hughes notes. "The results are a decline in entrepreneurship, stalled productivity growth, and higher prices and fewer choices for consumers." He laments that Facebook has become almost too big to fail in the eyes of regulators. "The company's strategy was to beat every competitor in plain view, and regulators and the government tacitly - and at times explicitly - approved," he writes. "This means that every time Facebook messes up, we repeat an exhausting pattern: first outrage, then disappointment and, finally, resignation." A bipartisan group of senators expressed frustration earlier this week with the slow-going federal probe into Facebook's privacy practices, pushing the FTC to move more swiftly and consider imposing tough punishments that target the company's top executives. "This investigation has been long delayed in conclusion - raising the specter of a remedy that is too little too late," Republican Sen. Josh Hawley of Missouri and Democratic Sen. Richard Blumenthal of Connecticut wrote in an open letter on Monday. "The public is rightly asking whether Facebook is too big to be held accountable. The FTC must set a resounding precedent that is heard by Facebook and any other tech company that disregards the law in a rapacious quest for growth." Democratic lawmakers such as Sen. Ron Wyden, D-Ore., have even been pushing the FTC to specifically and personally target Zuckerberg himself as part of its investigation. Many senior Democrats on Capitol Hill were especially irate about the public support that senior Facebook executive Joel Kaplan showed for Brett Kavanaugh after Christine Blasey Ford came forward last year. The company said Kaplan, a Republican and Facebook's policy chief, was acting in his personal capacity when he sat behind Kavanaugh during his confirmation hearing and hosted a party at his house for the justice to celebrate his triumph despite the allegations of sexual assault. This led to strong internal backlash from employees at Facebook. During an all-staff meeting, Kaplan said he should have checked with Zuckerberg ahead of time. The donnybrook strained some of the company's relationships on the Hill and put in stark relief for congressional Democrats that Facebook is neither their friend nor ally. Facebook reinforced this view the week before last by hiring another Republican legal operative who worked with Kavanaugh during George W. Bush's administration to be their general counsel. To be sure, the company has also hired some prominent privacy advocates lately for other jobs. Facebook chief operating officer Sheryl Sandberg has also lost a lot of her cachet with Democrats in the District of Columbia.She admitted in November that she received information about the company's work with a Republican-aligned firm called Definers that conducted opposition research against the company's critics on the left, including Democratic donor George Soros. Meanwhile, there are daily reminders of how central Facebook has become in American culture. Consider these three unrelated stories that have posted in this week: "Thousands of people who police Facebook's site for offensive content are contractors, not employees,and they're starting to air their grievances about unsatisfactory working conditions. They're protesting micromanagement, pay cuts and inadequate counseling support while they perform one of Facebook's most demanding jobs." (The Washington Post "Facebook is auto-generating videos that celebrate extremist images. A whistleblower's complaint to the Securities and Exchange Commission alleges the social media giant has exaggerated its success at staying ahead of extremists by taking down their posts. Instead, the company has inadvertently made use of extremist propaganda in promotional videos that collect a year's worth of user content to make snazzy videos."(AP) Instagram still has no control over the spread of vaccine misinformation on its platform, two months after Facebook promised that it would do a better job of combating the falsehoods. "Instagram executives said vaccine misinformation is not eligible for recommendation to its Explore, hashtag and search pages. But discussion about vaccines as a general topic is still allowed and can be recommended in these places," CNN reports. "An Instagram spokesperson added that its efforts are focused on vaccine misinformation, not the anti-vax movement. This means that Instagram wants to curtail false information about vaccines, but not ban people who identify as anti-vaxers or publish anti-vaccine posts." In his commentary for The New York Times, Hughes apologizes for his role. "I'm disappointed in myself and the early Facebook team for not thinking more about how the News Feed algorithm could change our culture, influence elections and empower nationalist leaders," he writes. Hughes doesn't fault Zuckerberg for trying to conquer the world. "Yet he has created a leviathan that crowds out entrepreneurship and restricts consumer choice," he writes. "It's on our government to ensure that we never lose the magic of the invisible hand." T-Mobile US subscribers will be the first in the world to get the OnePlus 7 Pro T-Mobile will be the exclusive carrier partner for the OnePlus 7 Pro in the US. Un-carrier customers will be able to buy one before anyone else in the world, just days after the official unveiling on May 14. As soon as May 17, Pro units will be available at T-Mobile stores and the carriers website. If youre anxious to try before you buy, the T-Mobile Times Square Signature Store will have units available for handling immediately after the unveiling event is over. The following day other Signature Stores will have it too the ones in Chicago, Las Vegas, Miami, San Francisco and Santa Monica. To be clear, this is just for an in-store hands-on experience. The OnePlus 7 Pro will be sold at all T-Mobile stores and at T-Mobile.com starting May 17 (thats Friday next week). Theres no word on the vanilla OnePlus 7 availability. You dont have to buy from the magenta carrier as OnePlus.com will also be selling units (and the phone should support AT&Ts network). However, the US market is heavily dependent on carrier stores the OnePlus 6T sales jumped 86% compared to the 6 all thanks to the partnership with T-Mobile. Lines for the 6T were longer than the lines for new iPhones, claimed the carrier. Source GAUTIER, Mississippi -- Make no mistake, Drake and Chase Killingsworth are not your typical teenagers. Drake, 18, is a senior at Gautier High School who will graduate with his class later this month. Chase, 16, is a freshman at GHS. They are also businessmen -- successful ones, too. A week ago, the brothers opened Killer Crab Company on Ladnier Road in Gautier. They own and operate two fishing boats, along with 1,000 crab pots, which provide much of the seafood they sell. They also have trucks they send to Louisiana to bring back crawfish. Most remarkably, they did it all on their own. When Drake was about 14, after spending summers and other free time commercial fishing with family members, he expressed an interest in having his own shrimp boat. His father, Charles Killingsworth, had always encouraged his boys to work hard, so he ponied up the money to buy them a small fishing boat. That, according to Charles Killingsworth, was the last time he had to spend money on his sons business ventures. My Dad has always been supportive of us working, Drake says. My whole family -- we come from a fishing background. My Dad, my Grandpa -- I started out shrimping when I was 13. I had my own shrimp boat, but I decided I didnt really like shrimping, so I sold that boat and bought a crab boat. I was probably 15 at the time. Once Drake, with help from Chase, started crabbing, he was originally selling his catch to wholesale markets, but once word got out about what the boys were doing, friends, neighbors, family, all began asking about buying some of their fresh catch. One thing led to another and I was selling crabs, shrimp and this year I added crawfish," Drake said. Its just taken off. But opening a seafood market wasnt an idea that sprang from the demand for their catch. Its actually something Drake had dreamed of doing for years. My dream has been to own my own seafood market, he said. I love selling seafood. I love seafood, period." Already, the market has sold anywhere from 10,000 to 15,000 pounds of crawfish over the weekend and Drake said they ship every bit of 10,000 pounds of crabs -- something he was already doing prior to opening the market. Once Drake had his first fishing boat, he would frequently get up at 3:30 a.m. to go catch seafood before heading to school. All along, according to his father, hes been saving, buying, investing. Drake credits his father for installing that work ethic in both he and his brother. My Dad taught us to work, he said. "Hes a firm believer in getting up at daylight and working until dark. He taught us that at an early age. When I was 7, I had 10-15 yards I was cutting every week. I didnt buy the lawnmower, I didnt buy the gas, I didnt buy the weedeater. But Dad wanted us to learn to work. He would get off work at Chevron at 5 p.m. and then take me to cut yards. He didnt make a dollar off of it. He just wanted to see us work. Charles Killingsworth said he is sometimes amazed at what his boys have accomplished at such a young age, but at the same time, he knows its that work ethic thats brought them to this point. I do think about it, but I guess not as much as some people might be, because thats just they way our family is. Thats the way Ive raised them and pushed them. Ive told them they can do anything as long as they work hard at it. Its always been about work with us. Nobodys going to give you anything. Youve got to work for it. But make no mistake, Charles Killingworth is proud of his boys. Drakes a real smart businessman," he said. Hes real business-minded and hard-working. I knew from an early age he would succeed. Nothing he does, nothing he steps into scares me, because I know he can do it. And his brothers right there with him. Hes done it on his own. All the permits, his business license, all that paperwork that comes with opening a business -- hes done it absolutely, 100 percent by himself. Chase acknowledges Drake is, at least for know, the more business-savvy of the two. But Drake says thats fine, because his younger brother is the better fisherman. Chase started fishing with his brother when he was about 12. He will continue to fish and work in the market while finishing high school. Drakes more like the business said, Chase said. Im the fishing side. (Chase) runs the boats, the fishermen, Drake said. He knows more about shrimping than I do. Hes a better shrimper than me. Hes a better fisherman than I am. Drake also acknowledged he has hired an accountant. She keeps me straight, he said. Older sister Alexa also helps out in the market as her schedule allows. The brothers say they dont really have a plan to someday move into a larger facility in Gautier. Drake says the current building is the ideal size for what he wants to do. He does, however, have plans to open a second market in Hattiesburg. The Killingsworths goal, they say, is to sell large volumes of seafood at the cheapest prices possible. We try to be the cheapest, Drake said. We want to make a profit, of course, but we dont want to try and make a killing off a small amount. Our goal is to sell high quantities at a good price. We sell a lot of product. Drake says that, despite his dedication to work the last few years, he will graduate from GHS this month with all As and Bs. There were a lot of days I missed school to make money, he said. I wasnt always there to participate in class, but I kept my grades up. Ive never failed anything. Its hard to imagine he ever will. Haiti - FLASH : Statement of General Policy postponed Sine die The Special Senate Committee in charge of analyzing the documents of Prime Minister-designate Jean Michel Lapin and his ministerial cabinet, decided yesterday Wednesday to postpone the ratification session of the General Policy scheduled for Thursday, May 9. According to Senator Joseph Willot, the Commission did not receive the full composition of the new Government in time, in which 8 ministers of the previous administration were renewed https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-27677-haiti-flash-members-of-government-lapin.html , stating that names were missing for the ministries of Tourism and Defense. The cabinet minister's list revealed on Wednesday gave rise to controversy and Gary Bodeau, who led the interpellation of former head of government, Jean Henry Ceant, last March, criticized the Head of State for not counting on the deputies to form the new government and threatened to control the situation. So far, no date has been agreed for the Senate session and experts suggest that the proposed Government could still change, as President Jovenel Moise has not yet issued a presidential decree to ratify those responsible for the portfolios. Senator Willot Joseph, expressed the disagreement of the bloc of Parliamentarians for the defense of democracy that would have been consulted on the formation of the Government. See also : https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-27677-haiti-flash-members-of-government-lapin.html HL/ HaitiLibre Haiti - DRC : Ne Muanda Nsemi, on the run for 2 years, asks for political asylum in Haiti ! Former National Deputy Ne Muanda Nsemi, leader of a politico-religious secessionist group in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), wanted and on the run for 2 years following his spectacular escape from Makala prison with 4,000 other detainees , via the office of his political party "Bundu Dia Mayala" (BDM) made a request for asylum to the Goodwill Ambassador in Africa and Honorary Consul General of the Republic of Haiti in Kinshasa, because of the ancestral links between two countries. "[...] I solicitate that His Excellency the Traveling Ambassador to Africa and Honorary Consul General of the Republic of Haiti in the DRC, like his father in the 1960s, give his support so that Ne Muanda Nsemi who has always considered this country as a second Kongo territory, can accommodate him to the Consulate to ensure its safety after the legal troubles that would weigh on him [...]"... However, it could be a temporary political asylum to ensure the security of Ne Muanda Nsemiqui which wishes to respond to the justice of his country since it is written later in his request "[...] during my meeting with the President of CNSA [National Council of Follow-up of the Political Agreement] on this file, the latter advised me to seek asylum in a consulate or an embassy in favor of the Honorable Ne Mwanda Nsemi hence the president of the CNSA will take him personally to the public prosecutor near the court of cassation to be heard [...]" Recall that Ne Muanda Nsemi was imprisoned in Makala Prison, accused of attacking State security, insulting the Head of State and using human shields during his arrest in March 2017 after three weeks of violent clashes between his followers and the police in the district of Ma Campagne in Kinshasa. SL/ HaitiLibre Haiti - NOTICE : Scholarship 2020 in Japan, applications open The Japanese Embassy informs that the Japanese Government has just opened the scholarship programs for the year 2020. Interested persons are asked to bring their application files to the premises of the Embassy before June 21 2019. Type of scholarship : (1st cycle) Grade: License Applicant: Bachelor's degree Duration: 5 years in general, 7 years in doctor, odontology, or veterinary medicine) (2nd cycle) Grade: Master or PhD Applicant: holds one or more licenses Duration: 1 year and a half, 2 years or more. Condition of candidates : Be born between April 2, 1995 and April 1, 2003. Having Haitian nationality. Hold a degree in Bac II. Have maintained an average of excellence during the last 3 academic years (more than 70% of grades). Be fluent in English. Have the will to learn the Japanese language and pursue studies in Japanese. Be available to arrive in Japan between April 1st and 7th, 2020 or the date designated by the faculty of reception between September and October 2020. Selection steps : Deadline for submission of documents : 21 June 2019) Documents to submit : 1st cycle : https://www.ht.emb-japan.go.jp/itpr_fr/00_000489.html 2nd cycle : https://www.ht.emb-japan.go.jp/itprtop_fr/00_000490.html Interested persons are requested to fill the available application forms and bring them to the Embassy premises : 2nd floor, Hexagon Building, Angle Streets Clerveaux and Darguin, Petion Ville. NOTES : Files sent by email will not be considered. The result of the selection will be communicated to you by email. Written Exam : early July 2019 Interview : July 2019 Final selection at the Ministry of Education in Japan Orientation Session : Interested persons are invited to the orientation session. 1st cycle: Thursday, May 23, 2019, 2pm - 3pm For students who completed (or will get this year) BACII 2nd cycle: Friday, May 24, 2019, 2pm - 3pm For students holding a bachelor's degree Location : Quisqueya University, 218 ave. John Paul II, Upper Turgeau, Port-au-Prince For more information : Please refer to the list of frequently asked questions on: https://www.ht.emb-japan.go.jp/itpr_fr/00_000486.html For more information : Tel: 2256-5885, 2256-3333 Email: culture@ht.mofa.go.jp For further information please refer to the Embassy of Japan website : https://www.ht.emb-japan.go.jp/itprtop_fr/00_000491.html HL/ HaitiLibre Haiti - News : Zapping... 81,150 barrels of diesel arrived Tuesday, May 7 in the evening, a new cargo of petroleum products arrived in the bay of Port-au-Prince, with on board 81,150 barrels of diesel for the account of various oil companies in Haiti. Disability in the Nursing Science Curriculum As a prelude to the International Nurse Day, May 12, the Office of the Secretary of State for the Integration of Persons with Disabilities (BSEIPH) recalls that the Haitian State, through the Ministry of Public Health, introduced a module on disability in the curriculum of Nursing Sciences. A new step towards a health system accessible to all! Cap-Haitien / Suresne Cooperation (France) The commission of 350th met with a delegation from the city of Suresnes and the accredited French ambassador to Haiti. The exchanges focused on the Cap-Suresnes and Franco-Haitian cooperation, on the sanitation of the city and the blocking of the construction of the inter-communal landfill site in Mouchinette https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-27638-haiti-environment-a-businessman-blocks-the-landfill-of-limonade.html on the celebration of the 350 years of foundation of the city of Cap-Haitien and the commemoration of 200 years since the death of King Henry Christophe. Water and Sanitation Training At the Pilot Center for Vocational Training was presented the Training Program for senior managers of the National Institute of Vocational Training (INFP) of the Water and Sanitation sector created in partnership with the National Directorate of Drinking Water and Sanitation (DINEPA). Assises 2019 on Higher Education Organized by the Ministry of National Education and the Conference of Rectors and Presidents of Haitian Universities (CORPUHA), in partnership with the University Agency of the Fancophonie (AUF), the "Assises 2019 on Higher Education" are held at the Marriott, from May 7th to 9th around the theme "Modernization of Higher Education in Haiti, Issues and Challenges of Governance". Several international specialists from Latin American, European and North American countries will take part in this summit on higher education in Haiti. IACHR : A Haitian delegation in Kingston, Jamaica Earlier this week, a Haitian delegation attended the 172nd session of the Inter-American Court of Human Rights (IACHR) in Kingston, Jamaica. Ambassador Leon Charles accompanied by the Director of Political Affairs, career diplomat Williams Exantus took part in the high-level dialogue on the 2017-2021 strategic plan of the IACHR and inform the other members of the intention of Haiti to the El Salvador Protocol on Economic, Social, Cultural and Environmental Rights. HL/ HaitiLibre By William Schwartz | Published on 2019/05/08 Director Kang Yoon-Sung is looking to maintain his hot streak. He was the mastermind behind 2017's surprise mega-hit "The Outlaws", which featured Ma Dong-seok and Yoon Kye-sang as leaders of warring factions of cops and criminals. The movie garnered several best new director awards for Kang Yoon-Sung - it was his first feature film. Advertisement While "The Outlaws" has already been green-lit for a sequel, Kang Yoon-Sung is trying a different kind of criminal underworld story with "Long Live the King". The story deals with a gangster who bumbles his way into national politics. "Long Live the King" is based on the popular Naver webtoon of the same title, with a billion page views and almost two million subscribers. According to Kang Yoon-Sung, while "The Outlaws" was a serious action film, "Long Live the King" will be more of a comic action movie. He described his interest in the project as being borne out of a desire to have fun telling different kinds of stories. Kang Yoo-sung's desire to have a good time has been confirmed by his lead actor, Kim Rae-won. He described their working relationship as being the best. In practice he said they're completely in synch with the product they're working on. Jin Seon-kyu, who also plays a big role in the movie, has stated that Kang Yoo-sung is an excellent listener who is always open to suggestions. "Long Live the King" will appear in South Korean theaters sometime in June. Written by William Schwartz ___________ "Long Live the King" is directed by Kang Yoon-Sung, and features Kim Rae-won, Won Jin-ah, Jin Seon-kyu, Choi Gwi-hwa, Choi Moo-sung, Joo Jin-mo-I. Release date in Korea: 2019/06. Published on 2019/05/08 | Source "Doctor Prisoner" has gone up. Advertisement The KBS 2TV drama "Doctor Prisoner" rated 11.9% - 14.5%, which is a 0.9% increase from the previous episode. MBC's "The Banker" rated 3.7% - 4.6%, which dropped by 0.1% and SBS drama "The Nokdu Flower" rated 2.4% - 2.3%, while tvN's "Her Private Life" rated 3.1% and OCN's "Save Me 2" premiered at 1.4%. "Doctor Prisoner" is no match for anything, as it recovers back to 14%. "Doctor Prisoner" is a prison and medical suspense drama about an ace doctor who is kicked out from a hospital and becomes a medical warden at a prison. Local legislators split on support, opposition A bill by a local legislator intended to improve health care on Indian reservations that split local legislators' votes is being signed into law today by Gov. Steve Bullock. Rep. Jonathan Windy Boy's Community Health Aide Program bill is scheduled for signing today in Helena. The bill sets standards for people to be certified, without being licensed, to provide some dental, behavioral health and community health services in a location operated by U.S. Indian Health Services or a tribal health program. "This is going to be a win-win situation for everybody," Windy Boy said. The bill, House Bill 599, was amended by the Senate and sent back to the House, then went to a conference committee after the House did not approve the amended version, voting 83-17 to not approve the amendments. After coming out of the conference committee, the House voted 73-23 to adopt the amended version and the Senate passed it 28-22. Local legislators were divided on support for the bill, with votes divided half-and half. Along with Windy Boy, Reps. Joshua Kassmier, R-Fort Benton, and Kasey Knudsen, R-Malta, and Sen. Frank Smith, D-Poplar, voted for the bill. Rep. Jacob Bachmeier, D-Havre, and Sens. Russ Tempel, R-Chester, and Mike Lang, R-Malta, voted against the bill. Windy Boy said the issue was first brought to his attention by Fort Belknap Indian Community staff and attorney, he said. They said the Indian Health Services director told the tribes other states have been utilizing a CHAP program since the 1960s, he said. It was originally established to bring health awareness to the community and transport patients to see specialty doctors. Alaska and Washington state are the only other states in the country with the community health aid programs, he added. After the bill is passed, Montana will set certification for dentist health, mental health and behavioral health aid technicians for tribal and Indian Health Services facilities. The certified professionals will be able to assess patients for preventative care and be able to refer patients to specialists who can treat them. Windy Boy said that while the bill was in the Legislature, it had some opposition from the dental industry, which feared unqualified people would be authorized to provide surgical care. He added that these claims are misinformed and the aids would only provide precautionary preventative care. Many children on the reservations need specialty care because their teeth are growing in incorrectly and sometimes can cause issues, he said. The dental health aid technicians would do screenings to catch those issues with children's teeth and "red flag" the patients and notify the dentist to put them at a higher priority. Dental health aid technicians and the other technicians authorized in the program would be certified and trained on the state level, he said. He added that dentists who are authorized for surgical extractions are classified as level four, the dental aid technicians would be classified as a level one. The Community Health Aid Program would be overseen by a board made up of health care professionals in the specific areas of mental, behavioral and dental health, he said. He added that the board will make sure the health aid technicians are compliant with all of the requirements by the state. Mental and behavioral health care is critically important, Windy Boy said. Montana has one of the highest rates of suicide in country, he said, and Indian Country in Montana is ranked higher than state average. The mental and behavioral health aid technicians, once they are implemented, will be addressing those specific issues, screening patients and pushing them to local psychologist specialists. Windy Boy added that the bill will federally "force (the state's) hand" to address the needs on reservations. "People are afraid of change," he said, adding that the program needs to be established to pull health care on the reservations out of the "dark ages." The bill has no fiscal note, he said. The program will be run off of third party billing and is eligible for IHS funding. Patient who receives the services will also be able to use private insurance, medicaid, medicare other insurances which are available. IHS has also proposed $20 million in the CHAP program, he said. "Which is huge because we are one of only three states that has this capability," he said. Indian health care has been underfunded for decades, since its conception, Windy Boy said, but having third-party billing capabilities increase revenue and the effectiveness of the program. The bill was originally scheduled to sunset in 2021, he said, but during the conference committee he was able to have it extended to 2024. "It's going to take a year or two to get everything in place," he said. "... We want to do this right." Once the board is put into place and they are able to start implementing regulations they will have the blueprints to move on to the next step, he said. Local legislative support - and opposition Lang and Knudsen did not respond to multiple requests for comments on the bill. Bachmeier said he voted for the bill when it first came to the floor of the House, but after it passed and he found out more about it, he reversed his position. His concern is that the bill dramatically expands the scope of practice and could put patients at risk, he said. The Senate made some amendments which may make the bill more on line with the intent of the bill, but he had not had a chance to consult with medical professionals about the amendments. He said that various boards oversee behavioral health, medical and dental licenses and have developed ethical, legal and educational standards that are in line with others across the country. "When any of us walk into a clinic, we can assume that our providers have been educated, credentialed, and that they have appropriate oversight from a medical board," he said. " ... I understand reservations struggle to find providers and I have empathy for those communities struggling to find providers. However, I also believe that we have standards in place for medical professionals for a reason. Everyone should receive a certain quality of care." Tempel said that the bill shouldn't have made it out of the Legislature. "All I can say is, I cannot believe some of the bills that get passed," he said. "This was one that should not have cleared either house." Smith said that although he is not an expert on the bill, other states and public health services are using a similar program "It isn't certified by the state, but it can be," he said. All the bill does is make certification for community health aid technicians so public health units can use them, he said, adding that the final decision is up to the supervisors at each health care facility if they want to utilize the program. "I'll do anything that supports health care," he said. Reservations have a shortage of medical services across the state and the bill helps address the issue, he said. He added that the main opposition of the bill was coming from big hospitals, because they are the ones that receive the referrals. He said that if the program is successful on the reservations it could be expanded statewide. Kassmier said he supported the bill because it increases care. The bill was aimed for communities that are trying to get help, he said, adding that more people will be able to be seen by the community health aides and, if further action needs to be taken with the patients, the aides can refer them to a specialist, cutting down the time it takes for people to get the help they need. Jacob Bachmeier "It's hard to get qualified people in everywhere," he said. "The more help we can get, somehow, I think, it does benefit people's health care." Kassmier said that the community health aide program does not cost as much as hiring more licensed health care professionals and will be easier for people to access on reservations. People will be able to be seen quicker and the technicians will be able to identify problems faster. He added that the program doesn't mean the technicians are not qualified, but will be working on preventative health care and identifying issues before they get worse. He said that because the bill does have a sunset, if issues arise with the program they will be able to revisit it. "I think it's going to improve health care all the way around," Kassmier said. Press release BOZEMAN Havres Triple Dog Brewing Co. and Vilicus Farms were among the businesses Montana State University Extension and Gov. Steve Bullock recently recognized as this years EcoStar award winners for their pollution prevention efforts and statewide leadership. The EcoStar awards program, now in its 18th year, recognizes Montana businesses that support environmentally and economically sustainable communities by conserving water, energy and clean air and which serve as role models by surpassing state and federal requirements to reduce solid and hazardous waste. Pollution prevention efforts have positive results for businesses, including creating a safer working environment, reducing hazards to public health and the environment, improving their public image and saving money, said Jenny Grossenbacher, director of the Montana Sustainability and Pollution Prevention Program for MSU Extension. This years 22 award winners represent 18 Montana communities. The awardees, who were honored during a reception with the governor at the Montana Capitol on April 24, included businesses in the agriculture, food, manufacturing, hospitality, medical and service industries, as well as an MSU Extension agent. This year, the 22 EcoStar award winners saved over 32.4 million gallons of water, conserved 448,768 kilowatt hours of electricity, reduced 2.2 million pounds of solid waste and 6,690 pounds of hazardous waste, eliminated the equivalent of 80,213 metric tons of carbon dioxide and saved $518,449 through their pollution prevention efforts, Grossenbacher said. Those contributions are noteworthy, she added. Examples include MacKenzie River Pizza Co.s straws upon request program to reduce plastic waste and a new director of sustainability position; Lorens Auto Repair in Kalispell using a waste oil-fired boiler system to heat the shop, reuse waste oil and save electricity; and Triple Dog Brewings donation of spent barley to the city of Havre, which the city then uses instead of chemicals in its waste water treatment plant. These EcoStar award winners are leaders for our state, and their efforts are making a significant impact on Montanas environment and economy, Grossenbacher said. Even more notable than the numbers are their vision and leadership, as well as their innovation and inspiration. Bullock said during the event that he was impressed by the awardees. The pollution prevention work you do is not just the right thing to do for the environment. You do it for all the right reasons, but ultimately, you know its also, long-term, the right thing to do for your bottom line, he said. Making your business energy efficient is the smart thing to do. Its smart for your business. Its smart for our state, and its also smart for the generations like the third graders I just met with before coming out here to honor you. Businesses recognized with EcoStar awards in 2018 are listed by city below. An asterisk denotes businesses that also received recognition from the EcoStar program in previous years. Multiple locations: *MacKenzie River Pizza Co. Belgrade, Billings, Bozeman, Butte, Great Falls, Helena, Kalispell, Missoula, Polson, Whitefish *Delaware North Co. Parks and Resorts at Yellowstone Bozeman, Yellowstone National Park *Xanterra at Glacier National Park Columbia Falls, Glacier National Park Anaconda 406 Bistro Billings GTUIT Boulder Boulder Hot Springs Inn, Spa and Retreat Bozeman Bozeman Brewing Company *EcoMontana Farmented Foods *Glo Luxury Oils Happy Trash Can Curbside Composting Montana Ale Works *Mint Dental Studio Sasquatch Fuel *Shaggy Bear Farm *Simms Fishing Glendive Bruce Smith, MSU Extension agent Havre Triple Dog Brewing Co. Vilicus Farms Kalispell Lorens Auto Repair Missoula *Bayern Brewing West Glacier Glacier Guides and Montana Raft Company For more information on the EcoStar program and detailed descriptions of individual businesses, contact Grossenbacher at 406-994-4292, [email protected] or visit http://www.mtp2.org/ecostar.html/. From left, Sabriel Combs, from left, Trevor Bulkley and Audrina Williams perform a scene of "The Uninvited" during a dress rehearsal Wednesday at Havre High School. Today through Saturday starting at 7 p.m. Havre High School will be performing "The Uninvited," an adaptation of a 1944 horror film. "It is supposed to be scary, but it's 1944 scary, which is not very scary," director Angela Pratt said. The story is set in 1937, when London music critic and composer Roderick "Rick" Fitzgerald, played by Tevor Bulkley, and his sister Pamela, played by Audrina Williams, fall in love with the Windward House, which is an abandoned seaside home on Cornwall's rocky coast. They purchase the house for an unusually low price from Commander Brooke, played by Brigha... Silas Thomas approaches the finish line of the Global 6K for Water in Havre May 4. Thomas was the first to cross the line in the 6 kilometer fundraiser race for water, which is still taking donations to help provide clean water to people in underdeveloped countries around the world. Press release World Vision's Global 6K for Water had over 50,000 participants worldwide, with the Havre team, Walk4Water, formed by April Taber, giving 23 people in the total walking or running May 4 on the Baltrusch Nature Trail to support the cause. Though the event was not timed, Sylas Thomas was first to finish the 6K, Vanessa Janssen second and Sara Lippy third. All participant registration fees and individual donations went directly to World Vision to provide underdeveloped countries with clean water. With the money raised so far, Havre's Walk4Water was able to provide 52 peopl... ShareBar Comments must be on-topic and civil in tone (with no name calling or personal attacks). Any promotional language or urls will be removed immediately. Your comment may be edited for clarity and length. City hopes commissioners will reverse manager's call on SROs Hendersonville City Council members are hoping that at least three county commissioners will vote next week to go beyond the county manager's recommended fiscal year 2020 budget and OK $200,000 to cover the cost of SROs in four county schools in the city limits. County Manager Steve Wyatt rolled out a $146 million budget on Monday that funds county operations, debt service and capital improvements and includes money for 23 school resource officers, covering all but the four schools in the city of Hendersonville. All are county schools, and the city argues that the county should fund those, too. In February, the City Council asked the county to appropriate $201,445 to cover the city officers serving as security at Hendersonville Elementary, Middle and High schools and Bruce Drysdale Elementary School. Last year, in the wake of the school shooting that killed 17 people in Parkland, Florida, the Board of Commissioners committed to funding SROs in every county school except those in the city. Twice during budget drafting deliberations last spring commissioners rejected a request for $480,000 to cover the SROs in the city. The council slashed its request by $280,000 this year in hopes of a different outcome. Its interesting to me that the city has been funding SROs in the school system, Wyatt said. The question been asked to me, whats changed? For the county, the SROs are a law enforcement expense, not a school system expense, he added, and school coverage should be a law enforcement expense for the city, too. City Manager John Connet said he and council members hope commissioners will overrule Wyatt and vote to fund the SROs in the schools. "Hendersonville stepped up a couple of years ago even before the county was able to put SROs in every school," Connet said. "The students in the schools are county citizens just as everybody else in the county. We would argue that even though schools are in the city, there are county residents that also go to the schools and we think county should pay their proportionate share for that. Wed only asked them to pay for the time that the officers are working in the schools and also were only asking them to pay for four when in fact we have hired five because we have one as a floater. We would hope that they would be inclined to help cover the cost of SROs in schools that are part of the Henderson County system." At their regular meeting next Wednesday, commissioners are expected to make final tweaks in the budget before a public hearing on the spending plan on June 3. After cutting department heads' requests by $17 million and ratcheting up sales tax and sales tax revenue projections, Wyatt presented a budget funded by a tax rate of 51.1 cents, the revenue neutral rate, or the levy that would raise the same amount as the 2019 budget. PROTESTERS are to march through the streets of Henley in a bid to persuade the Government to increase funding for the towns schools and college. Scores of parents, staff and supporters who attended a public meeting at Henley town hall on Tuesday night voted to go ahead with the march on a date to be fixed. They also agreed to launch a fund-raising campaign to help schools plug the gap between rising costs and their income. The meeting was organised by new town councillor Michelle Thomas after it was revealed that Gillotts School is having to spend money intended for pupils education on maintaining its buildings. This was followed last week by the launch of a parliamentary petition calling for better funding for the secondary school and others in the Henley constituency by MP John Howell. The petition is open for signatures until next Friday. Councillor Thomas said she hoped the march would attract both parents and people without school-aged children. She said: We dont want to squash anything thats being done by any of the parent-teacher associations, teachers or other fund-raisers this is additional and will hopefully get all the Henley community involved, including friends and family members. I cant tell you what a big deal John Howells petition represents as we cant really get what we need without his support. He is the best person to argue our case because he can take it up with all the departmental heads. I would encourage everyone to sign his petition as we dont have much time left. The march will take a little bit of organising as we have to apply to close the streets, inform the police and agree the best date. We wont find one that suits everyone but we will try to make it as accessible as possible and will announce it as soon as we can. Weve had discussions about inviting every school in the Henley constituency but thats a bit complicated. Im not saying they wont be involved, though, as weve already been contacted by three of them. Tim Coulson, headteacher of Valley Road Primary School, said: It cant just be about this town but the national problem as we cannot stand in isolation. If the Government sees this happening in a leafy shire like Henley they will really take notice as its their core audience. Town councillor Ian Reissmann, said: John Howell is bound to listen to our concerns because he will have no choice. He has to reflect his constituents concerns and if every town in the country started doing this it could make a difference. Everybody votes but if we dont say something about this we cant expect change. Town, district and county councillor Stefan Gawrysiak said the Conservatives poor showing at the local elections had been a wake-up call for Mr Howell. He said: He understands the importance of this and wants to lobby the Treasury to loosen the purse strings. According to the Institute of Fiscal Studies, school funding across the country has been reduced by eight per cent since 2010 in real terms while funding per student in sixth forms is now at its lowest since 2002-3. To get involved in the campaign and march, email Cllr Thomas at henleyschools@gmail.com The petition can be signed at Gillotts School, the town hall or the Henley Standards offices. A birthday boy who assaulted two women when "all hell broke loose" outside a pub has been jailed for three years and three months. Stephen Weafer was celebrating his 30th birthday and was waiting outside the Greyhound Pub in Blanchardstown when a number of people claimed he was jumping the queue. A previous hearing of Dublin Circuit Criminal Court was told that Weafer, now aged 32, headbutted Rebecca Burke, who broke her finger as she fell. A scuffle broke out and Weafer kicked Ms Burke's sister in the face, breaking her nose. It was accepted by Pieter Le Vert, defending, that neither sister had provoked the assault. He said "all hell broke loose" after Rebecca Burke was headbutted. Epilepsy He handed up photos of the injuries that Weafer received. "These two women were minding their own business and got sucked into a situation that had nothing to do with them," said Mr Le Vert. "If he could turn back time, he would. "Alcohol was clearly a factor in the matter, but that is not an excuse." He referred to the fact that Weafer had been taking medication for his epilepsy and was not supposed to be drinking. Weafer, of Casement Road, Finglas West, admitted assaulting both woman and causing them harm on December 27, 2016. Judge Karen O'Connor suspended the final 15 months of the sentence on condition that he engage with the Probation Service for that time. A Dublin credit union employee who stole up to 395,000 from the lender over a decade has been jailed for 18 months. Susan Redmond (50) had worked at Larkhill and District Credit Union in Dublin for 20 years and began taking out false loans on members' accounts in 2003, a court heard. Mother-of-one Redmond completed and signed loan applications and then issued cheques, which she cashed. Det Gda Dominic McGrath said Redmond's colleagues noticed irregularities on accounts while she was on holiday and launched an investigation. Redmond, of Thornville Drive, Kilbarrack, Dublin, aff-irmed signed guilty pleas at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to 10 sample charges of stealing from the credit union on dates from July 3, 2003, to April 26, 2013. Det Gda McGrath said this sample represented 102 theft charges. Reimbursed Judge Melanie Greally sentenced Redmond to three years in prison on each count, but suspended the final 18 months of each sentence on strict conditions. She ordered that all sentences will run concurrently. At an earlier sentence hearing, Det Gda McGrath told Barry Ward, prosecuting, that the 40 account-holders affected by Redmond's thefts were her friends and family and were all reimbursed by the credit union. He said none of them made statements to gardai. The detective agreed with Justin McQuade, defending, that this was an "unsophisticated" fraud and that Redmond had nothing to show for it. He told Judge Greally that he did not believe any of the account-holders affected had been complicit. He added that Redmond told gardai she could not identify one sizeable purchase she ever made. Michael Dempsey, a clin- ical psychologist, told Mr McQuade that Redmond was a vulnerable woman who "fitted the criteria for compulsive buying disorder" and was "severely depressed". Mr McQuade told Judge Greal- ly that Redmond had 20,000 in court as a token of remorse. Convicted rapist Eoin Berkeley has appeared in court charged with criminal damage after allegedly setting fire to two industrial bins only weeks before he abducted and raped a young woman. Berkeley (25) is serving a 14-year sentence for the repeated rape of a Spanish student on an area of wasteland in Sandymount in July 2017. The student told a court she believed she was going to be killed by Berkeley, who kept her captive for 21 hours. Berkeley, originally from Finglas, told the terrified teenager he had killed six people as he threatened to smash her head with a stone, and said he would cut her hands off with a saw. The victim, who was then 18, was raped three times before Berkeley finally fell asleep and she ran for her life. Berkeley pleaded guilty last November and was sentenced to 14 years. He was taken from the Midlands Prison yesterday morning and appeared before Judge Geraldine Carthy at a sitting of Dublin District Court. Gda Christopher Lanney gave evidence of arresting him at the court and putting the criminal damage charge to him. The charge is that on May 31, 2017, less than two months before the rapes, he committed arson by setting two industrial bins on fire at Liberty Lane, Dublin 8, intending to damage the property or be reckless as to whether the property would be damaged. Berkeley made no reply when charged, the court heard. Judge Carthy remanded him in custody for one week. Berkeley's solicitor, Tony Collier, sought disclosure of CCTV footage and a memorandum of garda interviews. This was granted by the judge. He also successfully applied for free legal aid. Berkeley did not speak during the short hearing. Wearing dark blue jeans rolled up at the bottom and boots, he kept his hands in the pockets of his blue anorak and looked around the court. During his trial for rape last year, the court heard that the victim, from a small town in Spain. She had never been away from home before she arrived in Ireland to do a course to improve her English. Grotesque She had only been in Dublin for a fortnight when she encountered Berkeley by chance at a Luas stop. He offered to take her to the beach but then lured her to the disused site, where he tied her hands with a dog lead and raped her. The court heard Berkeley did not admit the crime while in garda custody and gave a false alibi. However, he would later make an admission of sorts, taking what his counsel described as "the grotesque step" of cutting himself and writing "I am so sorry" in his own blood on the wall of a courtroom holding cell. A taxi driver who sexually assaulted three young women in just over two weeks has had his case adjourned a second time after a psychological report wasn't completed. Mansoor Uddin (41), a married father-of-three, of Castleway, Adamstown, Lucan, pleaded guilty before a trial at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court in February to sexual assault on January 30, 2016, and two sexual assaults on February 16, 2016. Repercussions At a sentence hearing last month, the court heard that as part of his bail conditions a female passenger was not permitted to be a front-seat passenger in Uddin's taxi. Yesterday, Seamus Clarke SC, defending, indicated that there had been a lot of media attention surrounding the case in April and this had had huge repercussions on Uddin's family. He told the court his client's licence was revoked following his guilty plea in February. "The reality is that his bail condition was that if he had a single passenger they had to sit in the back of the vehicle. Once he pleaded guilty his licence was revoked," Mr Clarke said, before adding that Uddin had not actually worked as a taxi driver since last November. Counsel said that as part of his bail conditions Uddin was also subject to a curfew which meant that he wasn't permitted to work as a taxi driver at night. Mr Clarke indicated that the psychological service wished to carry out one further assessment on Uddin before a report was prepared. Judge Sinead Ni Chulachain agreed to adjourn the case to May 20 and remanded Uddin on continuing bail until then. She said she was "taken aback" the report wasn't ready and couldn't understand the delay. Photo The court heard last month that Uddin sexually assaulted two of the women on the same night after demanding that one of them get out of his taxi when he saw her trying to take a photo of his identification. The 18-year-old victim had also called a friend while in the cab and gave her Uddin's name and some of his taxi number. Sergeant Aoife Cronin told the court that gardai used CCTV footage, a database of registered public service vehicles and a computer-generated likeness from a victim to identify Uddin. Scene of the shooting of Eamon Kelly Two Dublin men have appeared in court charged with the gun murder of veteran criminal Eamon Kelly in the north of the city six-and-a-half years ago. Kenneth Donoghue (42) was remanded in custody when he appeared before Dublin District Court yesterday. Mr Donoghue, of Hazelgrove Estate, Tallaght, is accused of murdering Mr Kelly at Furry Park Road, Killester. He is also charged with unlawful possession of a Glock pistol. Judge Bryan Smyth remanded him in custody until his next appearance at Cloverhill District Court next Tuesday. Bail can be granted only in the High Court on a murder charge. Expand Close Eamon Kelly was shot near his home in Killester / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Eamon Kelly was shot near his home in Killester Silently Darren Murphy (48), of Rory O'Connor House, Dublin 1, was also charged with murdering Mr Kelly on December 4, 2012, and with unlawful possession of a Glock pistol with intent to endanger life. He appeared before Judge Geraldine Carthy during the evening sitting of the district court. Det Gda Basil Grimes told the court that Mr Murphy replied "I've nothing to say" when the charges were put to him. The accused, who was dressed in a navy T-shirt and trousers, sat silently throughout the hearing. He was remanded in custody and will next appear at Cloverhill District Court next Wednesday. A book of evidence has yet to be completed before Mr Donoghue and Mr Murphy can be returned for trial. Kelly (65) was shot four times in the back as he returned home from his local betting shop in Killester. He died from injuries sustained when he was shot 70 metres from his home. The 65-year-old was one of the country's longest-serving criminal figures, having been involved in organised crime for more than four decades. He had survived an assassination attempt in 2010 at the same spot when the would-be killer's gun jammed. Kelly lived in the North Strand area of Dublin until 1974 when he moved to Killester. His wife, Ann McCormack, who died of cancer the year before his murder, was the daughter of legendary 1940s Dublin boxer Spike McCormack. He was a close associate of former INLA leader Dessie O'Hare. Kelly was convicted in May 1993 of possession of 600,000 worth of cocaine for supply the previous September and was sentenced to 14 years in prison. Sean Connolly, of Bernard Curtis House, Bluebell Road, Inchicore, Dublin, was jailed for life by the Special Criminal Court in May 2015 for the murder of Kelly. We really just cared about the fact that this would be general office use, just like any other office tenant, and their financials were strong, he said. Honestly, I dont have a preference over whether its a law firm, or an architects office or in this case, corporate offices for a cannabis company which, as it turns out, is an extremely creditworthy tenant. SOUTHWEST VIRGINIA MUSEUM HISTORICAL STATE PARK : Big Stone Gap, Va. 10 West 1st St. Now through July 26: Diamond in the Rough rotating exhibit University of Virginia at Wise campus library. Now through September 27: Ride into the Past rotating exhibit, regular admission rates apply adults $6 and children $3, 6-12; under 6 free. Group rates are available. Accepting entries for 2019 stitch in Time Quilt Show, the 22nd annual quilt show runs from April 2-May 3, 276-523-1322. WILLIAM KING MUSEUM OF ART: Abingdon, Va., William King Museum of Art, 415 Academy Dr. Exhibits: Now through Sept. 8: Mannish: Artist Travis Donovan works to uncover the hidden nuances present in everyday objects by presenting them as metaphors for self and place. Now through July 9: Intertwined: Regional Textile Traditions explores the realities of nineteenth-century home textile production in the region surrounding Abingdon, VA. All year round enjoy the permanent collection of the outdoor sculpture on museum grounds. The Museum is free and open to the public. www.williamkingmuseum.org or call 276-628-5005. George DeVault could never give up the radio biz no, not after a half-century of serving the local airwaves. Now the past president of Holston Valley Broadcasting, the 73-year-old DeVault traces his career back to working in local radio at age 15. The Kingsport resident, though retired, still remains a shareholder at Holston Valley Broadcasting. And he still likes to talk the radio biz. Like history. On Monday, DeVault offered me a quick synopsis on radio and how AM stations still cover local high school sports, like only local announcers can. WOPI-AM (1490), he says, is still the place to hear reports on Tennessee High School in Bristol. That little AM station (also heard on FM-98.1) turns 90 this year and is now celebrating its place as the first radio station in the Tri-Cities market, debuting June 15, 1929. I think its important to know that Bristol was the home of the first radio station from Knoxville to Roanoke, said DeVault. Its the oldest radio station in the region, and I think that it needs to be honored in that regard. The whole misnomer that you have to be a CEO to be those things makes the pool impossible, because there are just not that many CEOs and CFOs of color in those positions, said Skipp Spriggs, president and CEO of the Executive Leadership Council, an 800-member group focused on increasing the number of African-Americans in C-suites and boardrooms. When you start to focus on skill sets and look beyond recruiting a CEO or CFO, we have found theres an amazing pipeline of talent, he said. Their greatest concern is that the population in most parts of the region isnt growing but, in many cases, is declining as death rates outpace birth rates, Rhinehart said. At the same time, efforts to retain and attract young professionals and young families are falling short. Collectively, we have to tear down some of these silent walls that we have built around our own entities and come to the table to figure out how that looks, she said. We can all go out and compete for business relocation and business expansion. Individually, we have our own strengths and weaknesses, but collectively, as a region from a population base, from an asset base and tourism we have a much bigger bat to swing when youre trying to get businesses attention to come here. The group is working with North Star Destination Strategies of Nashville to conduct an online survey soliciting potential names and asking some fundamental informational questions. A website recently launched, and the survey will be available until May 22. The goal is to select a name by July, according to Jerry Caldwell, vice president and general manager of Bristol Motor Speedway and chairman of the Bristol Chamber board. Two local law enforcement officers who died while serving in the line of duty in February will be remembered as part of National Police Week. Virginia State Police Trooper Lucas Dowell, a Chilhowie native, died on Feb. 4 in Cumberland County, and Sullivan County Sheriffs Office Sgt. Steve Hinkle died Feb. 26, three days after being shot in Blountville, Tennessee. In advance of National Police Week, which occurs next week, State Police will gather today in Richmond to honor those who have made the ultimate sacrifice. Spokeswoman Corinne Geller said special recognition will be given to Dowell, who was 28. State Sen. Bill Carrico, R-Galax, will provide the ceremonys keynote address. Geller said a poignant part of the service will be the unveiling and dedication of Dowells portrait before his family and fellow troopers. Following the ceremony, the portrait will be hung in the Col. C.W. Woodson Jr. Memorial Gallery, which is within the Virginia State Police Academy. The gallery already holds the portraits of the VSPs other 65 men and women who died in the line of duty while serving the citizens of the commonwealth. LEBANON, Va.A Russell County woman and a man authorities say she had a romantic relationship with have been indicted on murder charges in the death of the womans husband. Helen Diane Tignor, 61, and Donald Ray Clark, 56, were indicted by a Russell County grand jury on Monday in connection with the death of 66-year-old William Trigg Tignor, according to Russell County Commonwealths Attorney Zack Stoots. Clark was indicted for first-degree murder, conspiracy to commit first-degree murder, possession of a firearm by violent felon, possession of ammunition by felon, shooting in an occupied dwelling, obstruction of justice, reckless handling of a firearm, use of firearm in commission of felony offense, conspiracy to use a firearm in commission of a felony, conspiracy to commit perjury and conspiracy to bribe witness. Helen Tignor was indicted for first-degree murder, conspiracy to commit first-degree murder, use of firearm in commission of felony, sale/give firearm to felon, conspiracy to use firearm in felony, conspiracy to commit bribery, conspiracy to commit perjury and perjury. Clark was previously arrested following the Dec. 17 death of William Tignor, who died at his home from a gunshot wound. LEBANON, Va. A Russell County woman and a man authorities say had a romantic relationship with her have been indicted on murder charges in the shooting death of the womans husband. Helen Diane Tignor, 61, and Donald Ray Clark, 56, were indicted by a Russell County grand jury on Monday in connection with the death of 66-year-old William Trigg Tignor, according to Russell County Commonwealths Attorney Zack Stoots. Clark was indicted on charges of first-degree murder; conspiracy to commit first-degree murder; possession of a firearm by a violent felon; possession of ammunition by a felon; shooting in an occupied dwelling; obstruction of justice; reckless handling of a firearm; use of a firearm in commission of felony; conspiracy to use a firearm in commission of a felony; conspiracy to commit perjury; and conspiracy to bribe a witness. Helen Tignor was indicted on charges of first-degree murder; conspiracy to commit first-degree murder; use of a firearm in commission of a felony; sale/give firearm to a felon; conspiracy to use a firearm in a felony; conspiracy to commit bribery; conspiracy to commit perjury; and perjury. Im not a resident of Bristol, Virginia. I did, however, look at some real estate there. Last year, I was advised that the Bristol, Virginia, city leaders were thinking about doing away with the city sheriffs office. I was also advised that each employee is compensated around $30,000 per year. It seems that if the city eliminated the city sheriff and staff (most staff members are leaving for other agencies anyway), then monies from that budget could be used for landfill issues/concerns and not force residents to pay for bad choices made in the past. Thirty thousand multiplied by the number of sworn officers equals saving residents mainly on limited and low income from having to rebudget and worry about their needs. Im actually for law enforcement, spent most of my career in the field of and/or related to it. However, in this case, you have a city sharing a police department, sheriffs office and what appears to be an outdated jail. I would hope that the city leaders would reconsider their residents and their financial needs before forcing them to pay for bad decisions of others. Back in the summer of 2016, when the CIA briefed McConnell and other congressional leaders on Russias attempts to undermine election systems and to get Donald Trump elected, McConnell questioned the underpinnings of the intelligence. He forced the watering down of a letter from congressional leaders warning state officials about the threat, omitting mention of Russia. In early 2018, Congress approved a modest $380 million (of a necessary $1 billion or more) to update election infrastructure. When Democrats pushed for an additional $250 million that summer for election cybersecurity, McConnells Republicans blocked the measure, which had majority support. Then came the bipartisan Secure Elections Act, originally introduced by Sens. James Lankford, R-Okla., Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., Susan Collins, R-Maine, and three Democrats, and later endorsed by Intelligence Committee Chairman Richard Burr, R-N.C.. But after White House objections, the Senate Rules Committee, at McConnells behest, abruptly halted the bills consideration last summer. I think the leader does not share my sense that we need to pass a bill right now, the committee chairman, Roy Blunt, R-Mo., told a trade publication. U.S. officials are insisting that any deal be strictly enforced so that China lives up to its promises something they say Beijing has repeatedly failed to do in the past. Also unclear is what would happen to the U.S. tariffs on Chinese imports. China wants them lifted; the U.S. wants to keep tariffs as leverage to pressure the Chinese to comply with any agreement. Once is enough when it comes to big news stories The case of the 11-year-old girl, known in the press by the pseudonym Lucia, was particularly disturbing. She discovered she was pregnant by her grandmothers boyfriend at 17 weeks, according to the Guardian, and even though the law allowed her get an abortion as a rape victim, government, health and religious officials along with anti-abortion activists in her home province strove to delay her familys request for an abortion until the fetus was deemed viable and it was too late for an abortion. HICKORY A memorial service honoring law enforcement officers killed in the line of duty will be held at 1 p.m. Friday, May 17, at Catawba Memorial Park, 3060 U.S. 70 SE in Hickory. A wreath-laying ceremony, playing of bagpipes and Taps, and an honor guard firing a 21-gun salute will be included in the program. Keynote speaker will be Catawba County Sheriff Don Brown. The annual event coincides with National Police Week and is sponsored by the Catawba County Fraternal Order of Police (FOP). In 1962, President Kennedy proclaimed May 15 as National Peace Officers Memorial Day and the calendar week in which May 15 falls as National Police Week, meaning that National Police Week 2019 will be May 12-18. Members of the national and state FOP will be in Washington, DC for the national ceremonies. On average, one law enforcement officer is killed in the line of duty somewhere in the United States every 53 hours. Since the first known line-of-duty death in 1791, more than 19,000 U.S. law enforcement officers have made the ultimate sacrifice. In 2018, 163 law enforcement officers were killed in the line of duty in the U.S. In addition, there were 28 K9 line-of-duty deaths. For more information, call the FOP Office at 828-695-1704. Flutter-By Butterfly Habitat opens The Catawba Science Center (CSC) will be opening the butterfly habitat this weekend. With a provided field guide, guests will discover an assortment of North Carolina native butterflies such as Monarchs, Swallowtails, and Fritillaries. Guests will also have the opportunity to experience the presence of semitropical species and learn about the butterflys life cycle and plants that attract butterflies. A members only preview is set for Friday that includes family friendly activities, giveaways, face painting and more. Become a CSC member today by visiting www.catawbascience.org/membership. If youre not a member, the exhibit will open to the public on Sunday at 1 p.m. For more information, call 828-322-8169. In just over a years time, the nations rainfall fortunes have shifted suddenly and dramatically. Rainfall famine has turned to rainfall feast. Thanks to its wettest 12-month period in recorded history, the amount of U.S. real estate covered by drought has plunged to its lowest level in recent decades, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration reported Wednesday. But at the same time, excessive rainfall and flooding plague large areas of the country. Precipitation over the last year (May 2018 to April) in the United States has been extraordinary. An average of 36.2 inches has fallen over the Lower 48, the first time it has topped 36 inches over a 12-month period in over 120 years of record-keeping. This amount is more than six inches above average, according to Weather Underground meteorologist Bob Henson, who first reported the record. Heavy precipitation extremes have been a staple of U.S. climate conditions over the past year whether Hurricane Florences record-setting rain in the Carolinas, the wettest year on record in Washington, Baltimore and much of the Mid-Atlantic, a sopping wet winter in California, and recent flooding in the central United States. About 90 percent of the menu is seafood, he added. The initial highlight when you walk in will be a raw bar, which will evolve. When we can get fresh sea urchins from Santa Barbara, we will (offer them). When we can get razor clams, we will. Well always have impeccably fresh oysters and clams. Bollywood actor Irrfan Khan, who returned from London after undergoing treatment for neuroendocrine tumour in March, has once again thanked fans and the media for all the love, prayers and wishes that came his way in the last one year. Irrfan went to London in 2018 after being diagnosed and was out of the public eye for a long time. In a long note issued to the media, Irrfan talked about his road to recovery, fighting the fatigue and said, With Love, to all my friends in the media! Last few months have been on a road to recovery a period to heal to fight the fatigue and face the reel and real world. I am aware of your concern and request to talk to you, share my journey, but I am fathoming it myself inhaling and internalising, taking baby steps to merge my healing with work and trying to experiment the amalgamation of both. Also read: Aishwarya Rai finds a doppelganger in Iranian model Mahlagha Jaberi, see pics Irrfan also mentioned how media respected his journey and gave him the time to heal: I am deeply touched by your wishes, your prayers and it means a lot for me and my family. I truly respect the way you respected my journey giving me time and space to heal. Thank you for your patience and the warmth and the love all through this overwhelming journey. I feel an urge to share with you something. I live my life in widening rings which spread over earth and sky. I may not ever complete the last one, but that is what I will try. I circle around Gods primordial tower, and I circle ten thousand years long; And I still dont know if Im a falcon, a storm, or an unfinished song - Rilke, the actor signed off the note. Irrfan is currently shooting the sequel to his 2016 hit film, Hindi Medium, Titled Angrezi Medium, the film also stars Radhika Madan, Kareena Kapoor and Deepak Dobriyal.Irrfan has been sharing pictures from their shoot in Rajasthan. GMB serving since 1900s Its going to be fun to tell another story #AngreziMedium. Coming soon, with Mr Champakji... Aa Raha Hu phir entertain Karne Sabko #ItsTimeToKnowChampakJi #AngreziMedium pic.twitter.com/mC3IL2UMpf Irrfan (@irrfank) April 8, 2019 Follow @htshowbiz for more Following directives of the Bombay high court (HC), the Thane Municipal Corporation (TMC) in the last two days has sealed 15 clinics in the city for not complying with fire safety norms. The fire brigade department had served notices to these clinics last week, ordering them to vacate their buildings and shift the patients elsewhere. At present, more than 100 medical facilities across the city are yet to get their fire no-objection certificate (NOC), of which 20 have not even started the process to seek one. The fire department decided to take action against these 20 clinics in the first phase. We had served notices to 20 clinics on May 3. They did not comply with the fire safety norms and had not even applied for the fire NOC, said Shashikant Kale, chief fire officer, TMC. Five clinics from Wagale Estate, three from Balkum, four from Mumbra and three from Naupada have been sealed. We have formed a committee to inspect the clinics which do not have fire NOC. Action will be taken against the remaining clinics depending on the report of this committee, said Kale. The health department said it will also cancel the registration of the clinics which were sealed in the last two days. We had asked the clinics to vacate their buildings of all patients. They were supposed to make arrangements to shift the patients elsewhere, said a health department official. Last month, the HC directed the TMC to seal around 70 Thane clinics which did not have fire NOC. The court passed the order while hearing a public interest litigation filed by Navi Mumbai resident, Sapan Srivastav. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Two cows of a cattle owner were found dead near east Delhis Sanjay Lake on Wednesday morning, leading to tension and rumour-mongering in Trilokpuri, where communal clashes erupted in 2014. The incident comes four days before polling in the national Capital for the ongoing Lok Sabha elections. To prevent tension from escalating, the Delhi Police deployed scores of uniformed personnel in the area before replacing them with personnel in plainclothes to keep a tab on mischief makers. While members of some right-wing organisations saw the incident as a deliberate act to offend Hindus, some Muslim residents felt it was a ploy to whip up communal passions ahead of polling. But the owner of the dead cows set aside such theories and said she suspected his Hindu neighbour of killing the cattle. Our neighbour has been targeting us for months because we keep our cows on a DDA-owned land. We told the police that this could be his doing, Rajesh Devi, who lives in Kotla village next to Trilokpuri, said. The police have responded by initiating probe after registering a case against unknown persons at Pandav Nagar police station. We have registered a case under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, the Delhi Cattle Preservation Act and IPC Section 429 (mischief by killing cattle), DCP (East) Jasmeet Singh said. Police said Rajesh Devi and husband Rai Singh have been rearing cattle for past 40 years. Earlier, our neighbour had earlier got the DDA land sealed to force our cattle out. He even got the water supply cut. He had vowed to send us and our cattle elsewhere, Rajesh Devi alleged. When Praveen Choudhary, a member of Sanathan Hindu Yuva Vahini, which has been camping near Devis home, said there was no way a Hindu would kill cows, she rebutted, It could be possible that my neighbour used someone else to carry out the killing. HTs attempts to meet the neighbour to seek his response to the allegations failed. It is too early to say who killed the cows. We are probing the possibility that they were killed for commercial purpose and looking into the suspicions posed by cattle owners, a senior police officer investigating the case said. Devis husband Rai Singh found that two of their cows were missing when he was feeding the cattle around 3.30am Wednesday. Around 5.30am, one of our neighbours saw them lying near the Sanjay Lake across the road, Singh said. The police have sent the carcass for an autopsy. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON A 23-year-old man, who along his wife was set on fire by the latters relatives condemning their inter-caste marriage, is battling for life at Punes Sassoon General Hospital, doctors said. While Mangesh Ransingh suffered 50% burns, his wife Rukmini (19), succumbed to her injuries and was cremated in Pune on Wednesday. The couple got married six months ago. On May 1, Rukminis father and uncles, who had opposed their marriage, poured kerosene on the couple and set them on fire at Nighoj village in Parner taluka of Ahmednagar district. According to police, the incident took place at the fathers residence. Mangesh came to take Rukmini home. She had come to her fathers place after a minor altercation took place between the couple. A heated argument broke out between him and the relatives after which the accused poured kerosene over Mangesh and Rukmini and set them on fire. Both maternal and paternal relatives of Rukmini were dead against the marriage as it was outside their caste, a police official said. Some neighbours had heard the cries of the couple and doused the flames, after which they were rushed to a hospital. Ransinghs injuries are of critical nature, one of the doctors at the hospital said. The hospital staff said that he had suffered burns on several parts of his body, including chest and the face. The injuries on the chest are critical because they may directly affect the heart and could increase the chances of infection, according to the doctors. Mangeshs sister Priya who was attending on him said he had not been informed of his wifes death to avoid further trauma. We are hoping that he lives, she said. We are Maharashtrians and we are shocked with such hatred and casteism. We are still in a shock, she said. Mangesh, a daily wage worker, belonged to Lohar caste and his wife Rukmini, who worked as a domestic help, was from Pasi caste, assistant police inspector Vijay Kumar Botre, the investigation officer in the case, said. Rukmini named her father and two uncles in her dying declaration, said police. On Tuesday, the police detained the womans father, Rama Bhartiya from Uttar Pradesh, and brought him to Parner for questioning. Rukminis uncles Surendra Bhartiya and Ghanshyam Saroj have already been arrested in connection with the case under Indian Penal Code sections 302 (murder) and 307 (attempted murder), the police said. The Rajasthan police have arrested the remaining three accused in the April 26 gang rape of a 19-year-old woman in Alwar, inspector general of police (Jaipur range) S Sengathir said on Thursday. Five men had allegedly raped the woman in presence of her husband for two hours, filmed the crime, and later circulated its video on social media. Sengathir identified the three as Chhote Lal Gurjar, Mahesh Gurjar and Hansraj Gurjar. He said Mahesh Gurjar was arrested from Jaipur districts Shahpura on Wednesday and Hansraj Gurjar from Uttar Pradeshs Mathura on Thursday. It was immediately unclear where the third accused was arrested from. An unidentified person from Jaipur was booked on charges of posting the video of the gang rape on messaging application WhatsApp. The 19-year-old woman separately recorded her statement before a magistrate in Alwars Thana Gazi town on Thursday. The Rajasthan government has removed Alwars police superintendent, Rajeev Pachar, and suspended Thana Gazi police station in charge, Sardar Singh, for their alleged negligence in handling the case. Five other police officers have been also been transferred. The Opposition BJP held protest demonstrations at district headquarters across the state on Thursday and submitted a memorandum to governor Kalyan Singh demanding action against police officers accused of inaction and security for the womans family. In Jaipur, BJP state president, Madan Lal Saini, said Rajasthans law and order situation was deteriorating and women were forced to confine themselves to their homes. Ruling Congresss Rajasthan unit vice president, Archana Sharma, rejected the BJPs criticism as baseless. At least five labourers were killed early on Thursday after a fire broke out in a clothes godown in Uruli Devachi village of Maharashtras Pune district, reports said. According to news agency ANI, four fire tenders have been rushed to the spot and the fire is under control now. Injured have been rushed to a hospital, it said. More details are awaited. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON A 32-year-old woman was killed by her husband and four members of his family after she protested against placing bets on IPL matches in West Bengals Malda town, her father has alleged. Arpita Dasgupta was rushed to Malda Medical College and Hospital (MMCH) in an unconscious state by her neighbours on Wednesday night, police said. The doctors pronounced her brought dead in the hospital in Malda, about 327km to the north of state capital Kolkata. We have received a complaint against some persons, but all the accused are on the run after the incident. Raids are on to nab them, said Shantanu Mitra, the inspector-in-charge of Englishbazar police station. Suvendu Dasgupta and Arpita married six years ago. Arpitas father Santosh Dutta lodged a complaint at the police station alleging his son-in-law and some other members of his family murdered his daughter. Dutta claimed Suvendu and Arpita, who opposed the gambling, had a fight on Wednesday night. At that time Suvendu and some other members of his family forced my daughter to drink acid that killed her, alleged Dutta. Dutta said his granddaughter called him late on Wednesday night, saying her mother was lying unconscious on the floor of the house. I rushed to their house but by then my daughter had been shifted to MMCH. When I reached the hospital, I found her body on a trolley, said Dutta. My son in law, Suvendu, is a gambler and also a narcotics addict. This year he invested more than 2 lakh on IPL matches. I have heard that he borrowed the money at high interest for betting. But he also failed to repay the loans, alleged Dutta. Police said Suvendu Dasgupta did not stay at his house during the day since he was hounded by creditors and used to come back late in the night. Police on Wednesday registered an FIR against BJP leaders accused of trying to bribe journalists at Leh following a court order. Leh senior superintendent of police Sargun Shukla said, Acting on the orders of the chief judicial magistrates court, we have registered an FIR under relevant sections of the law against the accused persons. I havent seen the FIR as of now and hence cannot share the details, the SSP added. Earlier, an inquiry, ordered by Leh deputy commissioner and district election officer Anvy Lavasa, had found the allegations against BJP leaders to be prima facie true. The inquiry concluded that the allegations of attempt to bribe journalists are prima facie correct. We have asked the police to register a complaint. Since it is a non-cognisable offence, they can file an FIR after a court directive, Lavasa had said on Sunday. The DC had ordered the inquiry on May 3 after the Leh Press Club lodged a complaint that four of its members were offered bribes soon after a press conference by state BJP chief Ravinder Raina on May 2. The club accused the BJP of violating the model code of conduct and sought action against party leaders. It is learnt that Leh journalists had submitted a CCTV footage to Lavasa requesting her to forward the same to the court for registration of FIR against BJP leaders. Leh press club president Morup Stanzin said BJP MLC Vikram Randhawa handed over envelopes to four journalists in the presence of Raina. Our members got suspicious and opened it. There were some 500 notes in the envelopes. When the press club members tried to return it, the BJP leader refused to take it. So they put those envelopes on table, Stanzin said. Meanwhile, the Jammu and Kashmir unit of the BJP said it would set up a committee to probe the allegation that some party leaders tried to bribe journalists to influence parliamentary polls, partys state unit chief Ravinder Raina said. Randhawa, on his part, has denied the bribery charge. Christian Michel, the alleged middleman in the scrapped AgustaWestland helicopter deal, on Thursday complained to a court in Delhi about the quality of food he was getting in Tihar jail, the weight loss he has suffered and about a murder suspect who smokes cannabis being his cell mate. Michel sought western food in jail and permission to go to church. Michel, 58, complained to the special CBI court that he was being given only boiled vegetables and has lost 16 kilograms since December 4 when he was extradited to India from Dubai. Western food may be directed, Michels lawyer, Aljo K Joseph, told the court. Joseph insisted it was indeed possible when judge Arvind Kumar responded that he will see if it was so. They [Tihar jail authorities] have bread, cheese, and onion, said Joseph. Michel told the court that the jail doctor directed the prison authorities to offer him food other than dal, roti, and chawal more than once. The court sought a response from the jail authorities and the doctor in response to Michels complaints and requests. It listed the matter for hearing again on Friday. Michel also complained he shared his prison with the murder accused, who smokes cannabis. They have put a gentleman with me, who is accused of murder. In the confinement area, we spend our time together, said Michel. He might be a reformed person, the judge said. He added Michel cannot be put in jail with only white-collar criminals. He [the murder accused] smokes ganja, Joseph responded. Michel requested the court to allow him to go to church and meet the pastor who comes to jail every Sunday. We had given a letter seeking permission and the jail superintendent has approved it. The former Supreme Court staffer who levelled sexual harassment charges against Chief Justice of India (CJI) Ranjan Gogoi said in her first interview since her complaint that she is not part of any conspiracy to defame the institution. I am not the part of any conspiracy against the Supreme Court. I have great respect for this institution. To protect the honour of the Supreme Court, there should be strict action against any wrongdoing, whether it is corruption or sexual harassment or anything else, the complainant said in an interview conducted through her lawyer and senior advocate Vrinda Grover. The 36-year-old woman who was, for some time, posted in Chief Justice Gogois home office, detailed charges of sexual harassment and persecution in an affidavit that was sent to 22 judges of the apex court on April 19. The Court set up a three-member inquiry panel but the complainant walked out of the inquiry proceedings on April 30, saying she had serious concerns and reservations about justice being given to her by the committee. On May 6, the committee cleared Gogoi of any wrongdoing. The affidavit is the truth of my life and there is no conspiracy, she said, adding, I am hearing many rumours about conspiracy and some other motives which are all false and I am extremely distressed and disturbed that such allegations are being made. I have nothing to be scared about because I know I am not part of any conspiracy. The rumours, of me being part of a larger conspiracy against the Supreme Court, are totally false. In the affidavit, the former employee claimed that after she rebuffed Chief Justice Gogois advances, she and her family faced consistent persecution that included her termination. I say that the CJI has misused his position, office and authority and abused his clout and power to influence the police, she said in her affidavit. In her interview to this paper, the complainant said the intimidation and harassment being faced by her family has not stopped and was, in fact, increasing. A few days ago some people went to the house of my sister who lives in a town in Uttar Pradesh. They told her husband that if I continue to speak, my life is in danger. My sister and her family are extremely frightened and scared by all this. We dont know who these people are and how they got to know where my sister lives. I understand that these are all ways of terrorising me so that I again become quiet. The woman employee wrote letters to the three-member probe panel, telling them that she was being followed by men on motorbikes and also informed them about this in person, when she appeared before them on April 30, but said: The Committee told me that I have a large family and my husband and his brother are in police and they can take care of me. Both the husband and his brother have been suspended from the Delhi Police. The complainant, in March 2019, filed complaints with the National Commission for Women, the National Human Rights Commission and the Lieutenant Governors office about the harassment but till date I have not been informed by any of these authorities about what action has been taken on my complaint. The three-member committee continued with its inquiry after the complainant walked out and submitted its report in a sealed cover. A release put out by the Secretary General said the committee found no substance in her allegations of sexual misdemeanour by the CJI. The complainant has sought a copy of the report. I do not feel that justice has been done to me in anyway If I dont have the report my right to justice is blocked, she said. The former Supreme Court employee said she was traumatized and under a lot of stress. I am constantly tense and living in fear of what more can happen to me. I pray and hope that the harassment and torture stops. I know that I will continue asking for justice for myself and my family. She did not elaborate on what steps she might take but several options are available to her. She can approach the court challenging her dismissal from service as being malafide and in violation of natural justice, and can also ask for the FIR against her to be quashed. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON If the trend pieces are to be believed, plants are having a moment right now, and you can pick up a wee one to raise all by yourself at the Annual Seedling Sale at Garfield Park Conservatory (so you know its the good stuff.) Bring your own method of transport for purchases. The event could end early, depending on how long supplies last. Noon- (members) or 1-4 p.m. (GA) Saturday, Garfield Park Conservatory, 300 N. Central Park Ave., free; garfieldconservatory.org The Congress stepped up its attack on Narendra Modi after the Prime Minister said that late Rajiv Gandhi used Indian Navys warship for a ten-day personal trip with his family and in-laws. In an escalating war of words, senior Congress leader Randeep Singh Surjewala accused the Prime Minister of using Indian Air Force (IAF) jets for campaigning during elections. Modiji, Distraction & Fakery is your last resort You have made Indian Air Force jets your own Taxi! You have paid as low as 744 for using IAF jets for election trips! Scared of your own sins haunting u, you are shamelessly pointing fingers on others! Randeep Surjewala tweeted on Thursday. Modi had pointed out that former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi had misused INS Viraat in an apparent reply to the Congress accusation that he referred to the countrys armed forces as his own. Rahul Gandhi says the armed forces are no ones personal forces. But the Gandhis used INS Viraat as their personal taxi when Rajiv Gandhi as Prime Minister was on a 10-day holiday. The ship was on duty but was diverted to pick up the Gandhis, Modi had said at an election rally in Delhi on Wednesday. Also Read | Rajiv Gandhi used INS Viraat for a holiday: PM Modi fires another salvo Rajiv Gandhis in-laws were also present. Should foreigners have been carried on an Indians warship? Wasnt this playing with Indias security? he had asked. After that, Union minister Arun Jaitley pointed out the difference between the leaders of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party and Congress. The Kaamdars use Indias Naval assets to strike at terror. The Naamdars use them for personal vacations with family and in-laws, Arun Jaitley tweeted on Thursday. INS Viraat, Indias first aircraft carrier, was formally decommissioned in March 2017. A Delhi court on Thursday granted bail to former Union minister Jairam Ramesh in the defamation case filed by Vivek Doval, the son of National Security Advisor Ajit Doval. Ramesh appeared before additional chief metropolitan magistrate Samar Vishal in connection with the case filed against him, the editor and a reporter of Caravan magazine. The Congress leader was granted bail on a personal bond of Rs 20,000. Paresh Nath, the editor in-chief of Caravan and reporter Kaushal Shroff were granted bail by the court on April 25. Ramesh and the other co-accused pleaded not guilty before the court. Vivek Doval, an overseas citizen of India and a UK national, moved the court against Ramesh and the Caravan regarding an article published in the magazine on January 16 linking hedge funds controlled by Vivek Doval and the governments November 2016 demonetization. In his complaint, Vivek Doval said the magazine and Ramesh, who held a press conference repeating the allegations levelled by the magazine, had attempted to deliberately malign and defame him to settle scores with his father. While claiming trial, Ramesh said the press conference was non-defamatory and based on facts in the public domain. The matter is listed for May 27. After the news of two cows being found slaughtered near Sanjay Lake surfaced on Wednesday morning, many residents of nearby Trilokpuri were cautious in reacting to it. Their apprehensions stem from the realisation that their neighbourhood is prone to communal tensions as is evident from the past instances. A riot between Hindus and Muslims in 2014 had left dozens of locals injured. Since then, several skirmishes between the two communities have been reported there. We have seen the lives of young men from our neighbourhood getting affected after they were embroiled in legalities after the 2014 riots, Sanjeev Singh, a shopkeeper in Trilokpuri, said. Our WhatsApp groups were flooded with information about the slaughtered cows, but we found much of it to be false, Singh added. Ehsan Khan, an elderly man in the neighbourhood, said he has instructed families in his colony not to let young men out of sight until the situation has normalised. We understand the impact of communal clashes, but the younger generation does not, Khan said. While no clashes were reported from the neighbourhood on Wednesday, the police took no chances. The morning hours of Wednesday saw uniformed police personnel patrol the streets. They were replaced by personnel in plainclothes by afternoon. We held an area domination march in the evening to let the people know that no communalisation of the situation will be accepted. We have an assistant commissioner of police (ACP) and some station house officers (SHOs) deployed along with many police personnel to handle any eventuality, a senior police officer said on the condition of anonymity. The decision to replace uniformed policemen with those in mufti was taken to prevent more rumour mongering, another officer said. We are interacting with members of the aman (peace) committee (formed after the 2014 riots) and the elders of both communities to normalise the situation. If we find people talking about the incident, we are clarifying any misinformation, the officer said. The local beat officers have also made their way into many local WhatsApp groups to keep a tab on information being exchanged. On Wednesday, members of the Sanathan Hindu Yuva Vahini (SHYV) camped at the spot where the cattle were stolen from. Nand Kishore, a member of SHYV, said, Since the cows were killed near the home of the owner but their carcass not taken away, it could be the role of someone trying to offend Hindus. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Federal think tank NITI Aayog has told the Election Commission that allegations levelled by the Opposition parties that it helped provide inputs to the Prime Ministers Office in advance about the places he was set to campaign are unfounded. According to people aware of the developments, NITI Aayog in response to a notice issued to it by the poll panel on May 4 has said that the allegations made against it are not correct. The think tanks reply will now be put before the full commission. Both the Congress and the Aam Aadmi Party had complained to the poll panel that the think-tank was being used by the Prime Ministers Office for election purposes, citing media reports. According to the official quoted above a notice was sent to the think tank to assess if it violated the model code of conduct that prohibits the use of government machinery for electioneering purposes. Only the Prime Minister is exempted from the provision that bars ministers from combining official visits with electioneering. This is the second instance of a notice being sent by the poll panel to NITI Aayog. Earlier, in March, the commission sought an explanation from NITI Aayog vice-chairman Rajiv Kumar for his criticism of Congress president Rahul Gandhis poll promise of providing minimum basic income guarantee. The EC has also pulled up both the BJP as well as Bahujan Samaj Party candidates from Chandigarh for using children in their poll campaigns. BJPs Kirron Kher as well as BSPs Praveen Tank have been warned to not do so in the future Prime Minister Narendra Modi took time off from his busy campaign schedule ahead of the last two phases of the Lok Sabha elections to address a wide range of issues in an interview with Hindustan Times. Modi, sanguine about winning a second term in office, began by explaining the importance of the 2019 mandate. The 2019 elections are special because it is the first time that those born in the 21st century are voting. These youngsters are not burdened by the past, they are in pursuit of a better future. These youngsters do not want to be bogged down by dynastic shenanigans, they want a nation where merit is recognised. They do not want old-school caste politics, they want a new age development agenda, the 68-year-old Prime Minister said. Asked how he had changed since 2014, when he led the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to a majority on its own, Modi replied: My digestion powers have increased. I can digest insults more easily. Q. Are you confident of coming back to office? Absolutely. From the first day. 26 May 2014. Q. What are the big issues in this election? Three issues are there. One development. Two, inclusive development. Three, development in all directions. In 2022, India will mark 75 years of Independence. It is up to us to create an India that will make our freedom fighters proud. The 2019 elections are special because it is the first time that those born in the 21st century are voting. These youngsters are not burdened by the past, they are in pursuit of a better future. These youngsters do not want to be bogged down by dynastic shenanigans, they want a nation where merit is recognised. They do not want old-school caste politics, they want a new age development agenda. Hence, in these elections, people will vote for those who they feel can build a better nation and lay the foundations of a strong and inclusive India. People will see our exemplary track record of 60 months, contrasting it with inertia of those who got the opportunity to rule for almost 60 years. WATCH: INTERVIEW | PM Narendra Modi | No record of surgical strikes in UPA era Q. Are you sure, because at least in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, we hear that caste is still the most important factor. People of all castes want development. Especially, the young generation, women they want a solution for their problems. And all the schemes and programmes of my government not only provide them a solution, but also brings them hope of the 21st century. Q. Do you think this is just an election being fought on a pro- or anti-Modi platform? People are weighing their options based on track record, vision and development work offered by various parties. For me, our work and our vision ahead are the prime issues. The Opposition, which has a galaxy of PM aspirants but a total bankruptcy of vision, plan and agenda is taking to abusing Modi, using caste and communal politics. Rest assured, people are going to reject this Mahamilawat (grand adulteration) alliance. Q. What is your view on alliances? You have called the oppositions alliance a Mahamilawat but you also have one of your own. One of Atal Bihari Vajpayees big contributions in India is two-camp politics. One camp led by the BJP, and the other by the Congress. Alliances are important to address regional aspirations. But you also need a government with a clear majority at the Centre. Our model is a majority government at the Centre, and a focus on regional aspirations that should be evident from our record over the past five years. The Congress party has a different understanding of alliances. Make Charan Singh PM; pull the rug from under him. Make Chandrashekar-ji PM, then pull him down. Make IK Gujral PM, then get him down. Q. Why is the narrative of this election so polarizing on both sides? You have to understand that we are not choosing a class monitor here. We are deciding the direction this country takes. We are deciding the future of 130 crore Indians, especially the 65% of the population which is under the age of 35. A lot is at stake. This is an election that will prove to be the turning point in Indias rise in the world. I am glad that this election has brought out the differences between the two sides clearly. Now, the people of India will be able to make a clear choice between the two ways of looking at the country. Those who say family first or those who say India first. Those who send love letters when terror strikes or those who answer terrorists in their own language. Those who stand with tukde-tukde gang or those who stand with the armed forces. Those who stand to protect those who are guilty of sedition or those who live and die to protect and preserve Indias integrity. Those who did dalali (brokered) defence deals and weakened Indian defence or those who proved Indias mettle even in space. Those who made headlines for scams after scams in every sector or those who have ended the culture of scams. Those who tried their best to besmirch Indias 5,000-year-old civilization or those who stand for learning from Indias glorious past to build a bright future. The choice is simple and clear. Therefore, if you call such an election, where the two sides have been clearly identified the positions they take on vital issues, as polarized, then I would say it is a good thing. Q. The quality of discourse in this election seems to be falling. Mamata Banerjee said your hands are drenched in blood. You made your comment on Rajiv Gandhi (called him Brashtachari No.1 or corrupt person No 1), and the Congress has responded in equal measure. Whats happening? I can give you a list of what various important people of the Congress, including those of the family (the Nehru-Gandhi family) and people close to the family have called me. I have been called Duryodhan by Priyanka Gandhi, Aurangzeb by Sanjay Nirupam, a Hindu terrorist by Deen Dayal Bairwa, a namard (impotent person) by Narayan Rane. Even in the past, I have been called names. In 2016, Rahul Gandhi said I am a dalal (broker) in the blood of soldiers. In 2007, Sonia Gandhi called be merchant of death. Theres more. Many of these were targeted at a sitting Prime Minister. So, if we are speaking of respect for the post, then its the same respect for everyone in that post then it is true for Deve Gowdaji in Karnataka. It is true for (former PM Manmohan Singh) whose governments order, was torn in public (by Rahul Gandhi). If you are speaking of respect for the post, then what about former Andhra CM Anjaiahji, a Dalit, who was humiliated in Hyderabad airport (by former PM Rajiv Gandhi). So anyone complaining now has to see the whole thing in perspective. As far as Mamataji is concerned, you should decide, as a journalist, whether you are fine with her tone and tenor of speaking. Her language. Ask reporters in Bengal whether such statements do anything for the state. Q. But surely, the quality of discourse has never been so bad Ever since electronic media (TV) came, since then, these things are being given primacy. In an election meeting or rally, in a funny way, to make a point. I remember going and listening to speeches of Atal Bihari Vajpayee, Madhu Limaye, George Fernandes. Their speeches had such statements too, but back then there was only print media. Now, from a 50-minute speech, a 10-second statement is taken and played on loop 24 hours. That said, there should definitely be courtesy. Q. In many parts of the country the contest seems to have been reduced to a presidential one with the biggest factors being the Modi effect. Doesnt this erode the relevance and importance of MPs in a parliamentary system? This whole election is on the basis of performance, not perception. By performance, I mean the various schemes of the government of India; and the local MPs are involved in the implementation of these schemes locally at the grass-root level. To just say that in these elections, there is just a name that is working, that isnt correct. Naam bhi chal raha hai; kaam bhi chal raha hai (the name is working, sure, but so is the work). Q. There is a school of thought that says your party will not get more than 180 seats this time Professors and teachers used to take the syllabus and make a diary of it. Every year the student would be new but the teacher and the diary. The world will change but they will teach from that. This is a similar section of people. They said the same thing in 2014. They are saying the same thing now. Q. There are so many complaints being made to the Election Commission these days; and the whole thing has become controversial. The Congress and its durbaaris have decided not to allow the EC to do its job well. Therefore, everywhere, they have people, professionals, who e-mail complaints, making sure the EC cant do anything else. The other thing is that in our country, courts never interfered in elections. These days, unfortunately, the court has also been pulled into it (with cases on the ECs actions being filed before it). The third thing is that before the great loss in the elections, just like a student who hasnt done well makes excuses, they (the opposition) are pointing fingers at EVMs {electronic voting machines}, EC. Irrespective of whether there are elections or not, we have to respect institutions. Q. With the responses to Uri and Pulwama, have we rewritten the escalation matrix with Pakistan and called its nuclear bluff? Do you think this will have the desired long-term objective of preventing Pakistan from nurturing terror groups? For a decade or so, the Indian government had tied its own hands as far as Pakistan-backed terror was concerned. Pakistan kept mounting attacks after attacks and there was no cost imposed upon the perpetrators of attacks. This gave terrorists and their sponsors a kind of impunity that we can do anything and get away. First with the surgical strikes, and now with the air strikes, we have sent a message that there will now be significant costs to sponsoring terror. We have also conveyed an unambiguous message that no matter where the terrorists are, even if they are deep within the Pakistani territory, they are not safe and they are within our reach. This is a significant change in the way India deals with terror. Pakistan has also seen the world reaction to our pre-emptive strikes. In future, they will be aware that their strategy of sponsoring terror against India will be detrimental to their own existence. Q. Sure, but hasnt this dialed things up? For instance, the next time there is an attack, doesnt this put pressure on us to act? So out of fear of that pressure, we should do nothing? Q. Former PM, Manmohan Singh, said in an interview with us that his government conducted six surgical strikes. He added that they didnt use it for votes To the extent that I know of such things all army chiefs have said such a thing has not happened on their watch. What kind of surgical strike was it? Who issued the orders? Or was it a non-violent procession? Where are the orders? These are the questions they should be asked to answer. After all, I wasnt in charge then. I can only say that we have not found any records of this. Q. About the Masood Azhar listing as a global terrorist by the UNs 1267 Sanctions Committee, does it mean we are now in a good place with China? We have always said India First. When foreign policy of a government is clear in what it wants, the results happen as a by-product. Throughout the last five years, we have reached out and made new friends, we have strengthened relationships with old friends and more importantly, we have brought about a fundamental paradigm shift in the way we are perceived. We are now seen and respected as a nation that will leave no stone unturned to ensure the safety and security of its citizens. This is the reason major nations of the world stood with our decision of surgical strikes and air strikes. This is also the reason why the long-pending listing of Masood Azhar as a global terrorist has happened. But the Azhar issue isnt about China. Why do we keep making it so? It is a global terrorism issue. Q. Is there a new and more friendly India-China dynamic brewing? India and China are both leading power centres, with an important say in todays geopolitics. It is important for our nations to work together for the greater global good. Our history shows that there was a time when both our nations controlled a lions share of the worlds GDP. I think both our countries understand that there is a lot more common ground between us. Both our countries realise and accept that we have disagreements but we are also conscious of the fact that we will not let these disagreements become disputes. There is a great deal of respect that our countries have for each other and it is out of this mutual respect that even if there is a disagreement, we resolve it through high-level negotiations. Q. If you are re-elected you will inherit the same Kashmir problem you faced in 2014. Would you agree that there has been no progress there and that things are maybe even worse? What do you think needs to be done to address this? We have to understand that the problem which media defines as the Kashmir Problem is a problem limited to two-and-a-half districts. We have been successful in confining the problems to a limited area. This is also not a problem that cropped up all of a sudden in 2014. Successive administrations have had to tackle the issue. The problem in Kashmir is the match-fixing being done by a few families there, who have taken the garb of conscience keepers of the people there. These families play their part with great finesse. In the process, peoples aspirations have been long ignored. We are still suffering from what Rajiv Gandhi and JKNC {Jammu and Kashmir National Conference} did in 1987. Has anybody questioned the Gen Next of Congress and JKNC about it? Those who preach hate and separatism in the valley lead comfortable lives themselves. Yet, they misguide youngsters to take to violence. Our work in Kashmir is to care of the citizens of the state, not a few families. We have done that with utmost diligence and sincerity. Jammu and Kashmir has got substantial modern physical and social infrastructure in the last five years. We want the youth to have books in their hands, not bombs. We want the youth of Kashmir to pursue their dreams. And, I know that the state is home to very talented youngsters who can give so much to their own state and the nation. The enabling environment is what we are trying to provide. We are inspired by Atal Jis vision of Insaniyat, Jamhuriyat and Kashmiriyat {humanism, democracy and Kashmiri culture} of and will continue working to fulfil the aspirations of the states youth. Q. There is still a farm crisis on. Despite higher minimum support prices (MSPs) farmers struggle because not enough is being procured. Whats the long-term solution? First of all, I wish to correct you on the procurement part. We do not just declare MSP at a minimum of 1.5 times the cost, but we also buy more from the farmers at MSP to ensure the MSP hike actually benefits them. This is where the difference really is, between the UPA {United Progressive Alliance} and us. During the five years from 2009-10 to 2013-14, under UPA, only around 7 lakh MT of pulses and oilseeds were procured at MSP. During 2014-15 to 2018-19, under NDA, {National Democratic Alliance} 94 lakh MT of pulses and oilseeds were procured at MSP by us. This is almost a 15-fold jump. This apart, for the long-term welfare of our farmers, we have a stated aim of doubling farmers income by 2022. Which other government declared such an aim and ensured accountability for itself? We took the historic decision of ensuring direct income support of Rs 6,000 to small and marginal farmers every year. Unlike the Congress, which wrote in its 2004 and 2009 manifestos that it will implement direct income support to farmers and ignored it, we announced it in February and in the same month, farmers started receiving the first instalment directly in their bank accounts, without any middlemen or delays. In our manifesto, we have announced that we intend to extend this scheme to all farmers. Q. Lets start with the basics, which are the most important. Bijli, sadak, paani, naukri. On bijli and sadak your government has done well. On water, there are huge water shortages in many parts of the country. Theres drought in parts of Tamil Nadu, Andhra, Maharashtra. What is the long-term solution to this? Good to see that you are acknowledging bijli and sadak are among our big achievements. On a related note, you may have observed an interesting phenomenon in this election.Earlier, the pet issues of any Opposition were bijli, sadak, paani and mehangai. Incumbent governments have been routed on these issues. Today, the situation is the exact opposite. The incumbent government has much to talk about on our track record in these areas whereas the Opposition is silent. They have nothing to talk on these issues of national importance. Coming to the question of paani, we have also put in a lot of work on this front but it is just that the work has not hit the headlines of newspapers as it should have. Our priorities are to ensure adequate water for farms and clean drinking water in the cities and villages. For example, take the micro-irrigation programme. When I say Per Drop More Crop, what I mean is that we must look to manage water better using micro-irrigation techniques so that our farmers can produce more crops. Q. Your manifesto talks of a ministry of water. This is an interesting idea. What will this ministry do? Water scarcity is not merely a national challenge but also a major global challenge. As a leading member of the global community, is it not high time we put our best foot forward and contribute to mitigating this challenge? In line with our vision of working towards solutions instead of silos, we have proposed the setting up of a separate ministry for jal shakti, a one-stop place to handle all issues relating to water resources. This includes water conservation, water access, new techniques, irrigation patterns, crop patterns, desalination in coastal areas and more such endeavours. We understand how critical water is for the future of the country. So, we want to bring an integrated and focused approach for its preservation and management. Its management is currently spread across various departments and ministries. This new ministry of water brings a holistic and all-encompassing focus. Take for example, the idea of river linking that has been spoken of for decades. Atal Ji made a promising start but we all know what happened after his government was replaced by the UPA. This new ministry would take care of something as ambitious as that and ensure a solution to the problems of drinking water and irrigation. The way cleanliness has become a mass movement, there is a need for water management to also become a mass movement. We owe this to our country and more importantly, for the future generations. Q. Staying on the subject of water, the cleanliness of many of our rivers, including the Ganga is cause for concern. While there have no doubt been efforts to clean the Ganga, recent studies by the Varanasi-based Sankat Mochan Foundation show that more needs to be done, especially to curb bacterial pollution, although there was some improvement in reducing sewage discharge. What more needs to be done? The river is a life-giving force. Its cleanliness and preservation is both a matter of faith as well as for survival. In the last 2-3 years, Gangas improving health and biodiversity has made news. In fact it was your newspaper which has brought such findings in the public. The aquatic life is on revival path. Many experts have checked the cleanliness and vouched for its improved state. These are positive signs indicating that the efforts that we have put are bearing fruit. People who visited Kumbh this time were not only pleasantly surprised by Gangas waters but also fascinated with the flora and fauna growing in and around the river. We stopped tonnes of sewage from a large number of drains, including the Sismau drain from polluting Ganga. And it is not a small feat. For a century, the dirty water was flowing into the river but there was no action. You would be happy to know that over 4,000 villages on the banks of Ganga have been made Open Defecation Free (ODF) already. Only recently, at Global Water Summit in London, Namami Gange was felicitated with the Public Water Agency of the Year Award, recognising our work. I am not claiming that Ganga has been cleaned. A lot is left to be done! But one thing is assured that we have right intentions and we are on the right track. Q. Coming to the issue of naukri, without getting into a debate on data because theres no official data yet and like you said we need new metrics to measure jobs created, it is clear that we need to create more jobs, and more well paying jobs. What will you do on this front? In a rapidly changing and evolving economy, we need a more robust mechanism to measure the employment metrics across various sectors, both in the traditional economy as well as the new economic sectors. The new mechanism needs to be able to measure jobs created by new age entrepreneurs as well. This is a mechanism which is being evolved. Job creation is happening and at a healthy scale. How do I say this? There is data in the public domain that provides enough evidence. EPFO {Employees Provident Fund Organisation} and ESIC {Employees State Insurance Corporation} data suggest that in the last one year we have been adding almost 10 lakh jobs a month, which is around 1.2 crore jobs a year. 17 crore have got loans from Mudra Yojana without bank guarantee. In that, 4.5 crores have attained it in the very first time. And each of them would have started something to earn money. They would have given employed one or two more people. A survey by CII {Confederation of Indian Industry} says that around 6 crore new jobs were created in the MSME {micro, small, medium enterprises} sector in the last four years. Now, here are some indicators: India has been the fastest growing large economy in the last few years. In fact average growth in our government has been best if we compare all governments since 1991. FDI {foreign direct investment} inflows in India are at a record high. Is this possible without no jobs? We are building roads, highways, railways, houses at more than double the previous speed. We are one of the largest start-up hubs in the world. We have a booming start-up economy with various app-based businesses thriving. With Start-up India we began the process of making youth from job seekers to job creators. We have committed ourselves to provide collateral-free credit up to Rs 50 lakh for entrepreneurs, 50,000 new Indian Start-ups by 2024. We will construct 60,000 km of National Highways in the next five years and double the length of National Highways by 2022. By 2024, we aim to make a capital investment of Rs100 lakh crore in the infrastructure sector. We have already taken the number of operational airports from 65 to 100. In the next five years, we will double that too! We are committed to investing Rs. 25 lakh crore to improve the productivity of the farm and rural sectors. India is poised to become a $5 trillion economy by 2030. The opportunities that come with Indias economic expansion will directly benefit the bright and young minds. The investments that we have planned for the next five years, coupled with such rapid growth, will create ample job opportunities that will be a mix of new age and traditional as well as well-paying. And to ensure that the young are able to make the most of these opportunities, skilling and education reforms have been undertaken simultaneously. Q. Lets talk about economic policies. When your government came to power, there was an expectation that you would, over time, reduce role of government in business, make the market more open, do away with inspector Raj by reforming tax policies and move away from subsidies. Your farmer payout suggests a move away from subsidies, maybe even a move to a Universal Basic Income. Can we expect this to happen, if only in stages, if you return to power? We believe that a country as vast and as complex as India needs solutions which are contextual. We firmly believe that our approach to social welfare must be a combination of creating a ladder of opportunity for our farmers to grow and to provide a safety net to help mitigate risks so that they may bounce back from economic hardship. This is reflected in our 360-degree approach where farmer income support is supplemented by other interventions such as insurance, soil health etc while we are laser focused on doubling farmer income. Hence it would be a mistake to look at any one intervention in isolation. PM-KISAN is a program to support farmers for their input costs of cropping. PM-KISAN ensures cash availability at important points in agriculture cycle. Farmers are free to deploy their own cash as per their requirements. We believe that our programs will lead to higher productivity and new jobs in the economy not just in agriculture but in all other sectors. Q. The world over, countries are becoming more protectionist and closed. How does a developing country, which stands to benefit from globalization, prevent itself from falling into a tit-for-tax protectionist stand off? India believes in the tenet of Sarvjan Hitay, Sarvjan Sukhay. We will protect our interests in the global trade arena but we are not trying to needlessly start conflicts. Thats never been Indian philosophy. Each country acts as per its own requirements. We believe that an efficient industry can overcome some of these barriers. Our Make In India program, encouraging manufacturing in India are all steps in the direction of becoming stronger and competitive. We want to focus on Indias innumerable strengths. Q. Are you happy with the progress of the Goods and Services Tax (GST), which seems to be stabilizing in terms of returns every month? Do you think it can be made more friendly. Also, irrespective of the long-term impacts, both GST and demonetization hurt the MSMEs, even if only temporarily. Many of them have been forced to formalize. Was this part of your plan? Dont you think there was/is a risk of losing political capital because of this? The objective of GST was not merely tax collection. The concept of one nation, one tax has been implemented through GST. Indias biggest strength lies in being an emerging big market. This market has been unified and various inefficiencies have been removed. While implementing any major reform some problems are natural and an alert system solves those problems quickly. Learning from our experiences of 21 months with GST, we are taking multiple steps towards making GST more consumer friendly, trader friendly, business friendly, manufacturer friendly and service provider friendly. If I also had kept thinking about the risk of losing political capital, then what is the difference between my government and previous governments. Some steps need to taken in national interest. I am thankful that the people of India have given us uninterrupted support and co-operation in this journey. This is possible when people also know that the steps are being taken with the right intentions and in the larger good. As a result of formalisation, MSMEs get the benefit of institutional credit. In India, the MSMEs are always deprived of formal credit as per their requirements. Due to this, their cost of capital was always disproportionately more. Because of inclusion in GST, the MSMEs have a new window of credit Workers will get benefit of facilities of social security from formalization. Millions of workers start getting facilities of pension, health insurance, life insurance and maternity benefits with formalisation of firms. Q. Which would you consider your governments most significant policy campaigns and why? Swachh Bharat? Ayushmani Bharat? The PMAY? The farm insurance scheme? Ujjwala? Each of these schemes you have mentioned, have been unique in their speed and scale. With Swachh Bharat, a womens dignity was made the focal point of social governance. Over 9 crore toilets built in 5 years ensured that women are not forced to defecate in open and the sanitation coverage of India went up from just 38% in 2014 to 99% in 2019. With Ujjwala, again, more than 7 crore women and especially their children were freed from the choking life that they were subjected to for so long due to cooking with firewood. Take Ayushman Bharat, the worlds largest healthcare insurance programme is transforming the entire healthcare system in the country. It has made quality healthcare accessible and affordable for the poorest. Same with Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, which is fulfilling the dream of owning a house for all Indians, irrespective of which class, caste, region they belong to. PM Fasal Bima Yojana has brought immense relief to a farmers family who no longer fear impoverishment due to crop damage. Each of these initiatives has fundamentally changed peoples lives, in a way that they have been freed from the fear and uncertainty that poverty, sickness, and homelessness bring in peoples lives. These fears had tied down generations of Indians and trapped them in a cycle of poverty. But that feeling of fear, anxiety and helplessness is being driven away now. This helplessness is giving way to hope and the anxiety is giving way to aspirations. Q. You have been CM of Gujarat for over a decade. And you have been PM for five years. What is the biggest challenge facing the country? We have lots of opportunities, but we dont seem to mind if we miss them. Its almost as if its OK to miss these. We have to now challenge ourselves to not miss a single opportunity. Q. Whats the difference between the Modi of 2014 and the Modi of 2019? My digestion powers have increased. I can digest insults more easily. A court in Samba on Thursday sent a Pakistani national to 12 days police remand, a day after he was caught by Border Security Force (BSF) personnel along the International Border in the Jammu region. The person, identified as Mohammed Afzal (31), is a former Pakistani soldier, said police. He is a resident of Nihar village of Narowal district in Pakistan. He was caught by BSF jawans near Whale Back Post in Samba sector around 9 pm on Wednesday. He left Pak Armys 156 radar unit in May last year. We have recovered two mobile phones without SIM cards, two headphones and an identity card from his possession, said a police officer speaking on the condition of anonymity. During questioning, he said, he was fed up with his 156 radar unit, which, he claimed, had put a microchip in his brain. He also claimed that he had come here [India] to get that chip removed. He is a class 12 passout, the police officer added. The BSF handed him over to the police late on Wednesday night and police produced him before a local court in Samba, which sent him to 12 days police remand. Meanwhile on Thursday, Pakistan border guards established contact with the BSF on the Zero Line between Indias Whale Back post and Pakistans Gulzar post to enquire about Mohammed Afzal, said BSF officials. The ministry of statistics and programme implementation (MoSPI) has downplayed the controversy around Indias gross domestic product (GDP) data after a National Sample Survey Office (NSSO) report raised serious questions on the quality of the MCA-21 database, which is used in Indias GDP calculations, triggering political accusations of data manipulation. The NSSO report, findings of which were first published in Mint on Wednesday, found that 36% of the companies in the MCA-21 database maintained by the ministry of corporate affairs (MCA) could not be traced or were wrongly classified. Indias new GDP series, which was published in January 2015 and moved the base year from 2004-05 to 2011-12, uses the MCA-21 database to calculate the countrys economic output. The earlier series did not use this database, which is only available from 2006-07 onwards. An MoSPI statement issued on Wednesday said the NSSO survey was commissioned to understand the data gaps in the MCA-21 database and take remedial steps. The statement also said these issues will be resolved in the proposed revision of GDP figures to the 2017-18 series and added that the results of this NSS Report will be further examined by the Advisory Committee before finalising the approach and methodology for the proposed 2017-18 series. The statement also downplayed the impact of the gaps. It is emphasised that there is no impact on the existing GDP/GVA (gross value added) estimates for the corporate sector as due care is taken to appropriately adjust the corporate filings at the aggregate level based on the paid up capital, it said. The ministry also clarified that the 2011-12 series had been using the corporate sector data available from the MCA in its estimates and the ministry had conducted the survey to find out the veracity of the data used. What the NSSO survey has revealed is that a large number of companies in the MCA-21 database are shell companies, Dr Pronab Sen, Indias former chief statistician, said. This does not mean that their economic output should not be included in the GDP figures, and hence there will not be a big impact on headline growth figures. However, a large presence of shell companies in GDP inputs can give misleading ideas about the sectoral composition of the GDP as the parent company which has shifted its books to a shell company might have done so in a completely different sector, he added. The Opposition attacked the government , accusing it of fudging crucial data. To cover up their gross mismanagement of the economy, which has cost us growth and jobs, the government is now indulging in doctored statistics. Numerous experts have raised questions on revised GDP numbers and how they have been calculated. Now we can see that these figures have been raised on a foundation of falsehood and fake companies. To look good and to fool the people, the integrity of our reputed statistical system is in peril. That is one more system just destroyed, Congress MP and chairman of the partys research department, Rajeev Gowda, said. Left parties criticised the government for overestimation of growth. It is now clear that growth has been overestimated to misguide the people. This is straightaway manipulation of data and therefore a fraud being played on the people, said Tapan Sen, a politburo member of the Communist Party of India (Marxist). Sen said institutions like the Central Statistics Office (CSO) had acquired great credibility over the years but it had been compromised because of [Prime Minister Narendra] Modis style of functioning which is aimed at manipulating all institutions. Communist Party of India leader D Raja said his party has demanded and also pledged in its manifesto statutory status for the CSO to protect it from manipulation. The government makes tall claims about GDP numbers but the macro-level claims dont match with micro-level reality, Raja said. Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) spokesperson Gopal Agarwal said that at times surveys had limitations with regard to sample size and selection of questionnaires, and their sequence. All these have a bearing on the final conclusions. Therefore, proper checking and verification is required without which the quality of data will suffer, he said. A 19-year-old Dalit woman, who was to get married in two weeks, was stabbed to death in full public view in Gujarat after she refused to sit on the alleged murderers motorcycle, police said Thursday. The incident took place in Bavla town of Ahmedabad district on Wednesday evening. The victim, Mittal Jadav, was stabbed multiple times by the accused, Ketan Vaghela, when she refused to go with him on his motorbike, the police said, quoting from the complaint lodged by her father Ramesh Jadav. Vaghela, along with his accomplices Shravan and Dhanraj was booked on charges of murder and also under various sections of the the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, said officials. They said the probe has been handed over to Deputy Superintendent of Police (SC/ST Cell) P D Manvar. A video of the incident surfaced on Thursday. In the video, shot by a bystander, a person carrying knife can be seen running away from the spot, while the victim is lying unconscious and surrounded by onlookers. The incident took place at around 6.30 pm when Mittal Jadav and her younger sister were shopping in a market near a bus stop, said Manvar. The woman, whose marriage was fixed after two weeks, succumbed to her injuries at a hospital in Ahmedabad late Wednesday night, he said. The motive behind the murder is not yet clear as the victims family members are in a shock and unable to speak about the gruesome incident, Manvar said. Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that as far he knows, the previous United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government did not launch any surgical strikes as claimed by the former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh in an interview with Hindustan Times last week. Modi said that the army chiefs in charge at the time have said they do not have any information on such strikes. What kind of surgical strike was it? Who issued the orders? Where are the orders? These are the questions they [UPA] should be asked to answer, he said. I can only say that we have not found any records of this. The Modi-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government launched a counterstrike against terror pods across the Line of Control after the Uri terror attack in 2016, and an air strike on a Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) training camp at Balakot in Pakistan after the Pulwama terror attack in February. Last week, Singh said that his government had carried out similar surgical strikes, but not used them to garner votes. The Bharatiya Janata Party-led NDA has made national security a central plank of its campaign in the ongoing parliamentary elections. For a decade or so, the Indian government had tied its own hands as far as Pakistan-backed terror was concerned. Pakistan kept mounting attacks and there was no cost imposed upon the perpetrators.This gave terrorists and their sponsors a kind of impunity that we can do anything and get away. First with the surgical strike and now with the air strike, we have sent the message that there will now be significant costs to sponsoring terror, Modi said. He denied that this would only escalate matters. They will be aware that their strategy of sponsoring terror against India will be detrimental to their own existence, nor does this put pressure on the government to up the ante the next time there is an attack, he said. So out of fear of that pressure, we should do nothing? he asked. Also read: Exclusive| We are deciding direction India takes: PM Modi Commenting on the recent UN listing of JeMs Masood Azhar as a global terrorist after China withdrew its technical hold on such a listing, Modi said everyone was wrongly describing this as a China-related issue when, in reality, it is about global terror. Looking relaxed as he spoke to HT in his 7, Lok Kalyan Marg residence, Modi said he is confident about coming back to office, and has been from his first day as PM May 26, 2014. He denied that the elections had been reduced to a presidential one where his own image plays a big role and said that the election is based on performance, not perception. To say that in these elections there is just a name that is working, that isnt correct. The Prime Minister, who said we are not choosing a class monitor but deciding the direction this country takes in these elections, said the three issues that matter are development, inclusive development, and development in all directions. The 2019 elections are special because this is the first time those born in the 21st century are voting, and these people are not burdened by the past but are in pursuit of a better future, Modi said. A human error may have caused the mid-air collision of two planes rehearsing for an aerobatic show near Bengalurus Yelahanka Air Force Base in February, according to two Indian Air Force (IAF) officials familiar with an ongoing investigation into the crash. One pilot was killed while the two others were injured in the crash of two Hawk advanced jet trainers of the Surya Kiran Aerobatic Display Team. The British-origin jets were rehearing complex aerobatic manoeuvres to be performed during the five-day airshow, Aero India-2019. It was the second crash involving IAF aircraft in February since a Mirage 2000 trainer crashed in Bengaluru on February 1. Two pilots were killed in that crash. One of the officials cited above, who requested anonymity, said the initial investigation points to a pilot error as the jets were flying in an incorrect formation while performing the mirror manoeuvre. In a mirror manoeuvre, it appears to spectators on the ground that one jet in the formation is flying inverted exactly above the other. But the planes in reality have to maintain minimum lateral separation to eliminate chances of a collision. It is a very tight formation. But the pilots have to maintain a minimum lateral separation. It appears the jets did not maintain that separation that day. The Hawk flying below the inverted plane should not have been exactly under it, the second official said, also on condition of anonymity. The jet flying below had two pilots in it. A single pilot flew the inverted one above. Footage of the collision showed that the aircraft on top descended rapidly with its nose crashing into the tail of the jet below before snapping off into pieces. Wing Commander Sahil Gandhi, who was flying the inverted jet, was killed in the crash. The two injured pilots in the other plane ejected and parachuted to the ground. An IAF spokesperson refused to comment saying the probe into the crash was still on. However, the next course of action will be determined by the findings of the IAF probe. If found culpable, it could have serious implications for the erring pilot, an IAF official said. The Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team consists of Indias finest fighter pilots trained to perform death-defying stunts. It is equipped with Hawk Mk 132 trainers and carries out dazzling displays with its trademark nine-aircraft formation. The IAF inducted its first batch of Hawks in February 2008 to simplify the training of rookie fighter pilots from subsonic trainers to supersonic fighters. India ordered 123 Hawks, manufactured by defence and aerospace giant BAE Systems, of which 24 were delivered in flyaway condition while the remaining were license-produced at Bengalurus Hindustan Aeronautics Limited. The Navy operates 17 Hawks while the remaining belong to the IAF. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON The fun is in the ridiculous impersonations and accents, or should be. Yet Hathaway and Wilson never get a performance rhythm going; first-time feature film director Chris Addison has many episodes of Veep to his credit, but here his technique, especially his facility for slapstick, is practically nil. The whole movie looks cheap. The cost-efficient island of Mallorca, off the coast of Spain, substitutes for the actual Riviera, and you wouldnt notice or care about the secondhand quality of The Hustle, or its reliance on the same hermetic casino or villa interiors, if Addison and company developed any energy in their masquerades. India will decide on oil imports in the face of US sanctions according to its national interests but it is expected New Delhi will not ignore a reliable energy supplier such as Tehran, Iranian ambassador Ali Chegeni said on Thursday. The development of Irans Chabahar port by India is exempted from the US sanctions and work on the project is proceeding but the American measures could have long-term impacts on the project, Chegeni said in an interview. With the US ending exemptions for sanctions on Iranian oil imports on May 2, India had been expecting an extension of the six-month exemption granted last November but the US has been non-committal. India will decide on oil imports based on its national interests and energy security and we cant force them, Chegeni said. We expect that a reliable source like Iran should not be ignored. India-Iran ties, he said, were not for just two days as the countries have been good friends for decades and have a relationship dating back hundreds of years. The sanctions were imposed after US President Donald Trump pulled out of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) or Iran nuclear deal last year. Key buyers of Iranian crude such as China and Turkey have said they will continue imports through special mechanisms and banks that arent exposed to the US financial system. Iran was among Indias top three energy suppliers, providing 23.6 million tonnes of oil last year, or about 10% of the countrys energy needs. Chegeni contended the US sanctions are unilateral measures that violate the dignity, sovereignty and liberty of independent countries. Exporting oil is our right and nobody can stop us, he said. He said work on the strategic deep sea port of Chabahar is proceeding and a lot of infrastructure including an airport, a gas pipeline and a refinery has been put in place. Chabahar is not under sanctions but the chain around it is not complete, he said. Several countries have expressed interest in Chabahar but for us, India comes first. In the long-term, the sanctions could indirectly affect sectors like banking, insurance and shipping of materials such as steel for the railway link, he added. India Ports Global Limited took over Chabahars only operational terminal last December. The port on Irans southern coast along the Gulf of Oman is being developed as part of a corridor for landlocked Afghanistan that bypasses Pakistan. Chegeni said he believed India, as a country that welcomed the JCPOA and as a big partner of the US, should defend the deal and talk to the Americans about the need to protect the arrangement. India is one of the good players internationally and regionally and it can use all diplomatic and peaceful means to push countries for justice, he added. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON ABOUT THE AUTHOR Rezaul H Laskar Rezaul H Laskar heads the Foreign Affairs desk at Hindustan Times. His interests include movies and music. ...view detail After two years of arduous attempts, a Kota-based engineer received 33 as refund from the Indian Railways which charged him the amount as service tax despite him cancelling the ticket prior to the implementation of GST. The ticket was booked in April 2017, before the implementation of the Goods and Services Tax (GST), and subsequently cancelled. It was booked for a journey on July 2, 2017, a day after the new tax regime came into force. Sujeet Swami, the 30-year-old engineer, had been fighting the battle to obtain a refund of 35 from the IRCTC for the cancellation of a Kota-Delhi train ticket but received the amount after deduction of 2. Swami had booked a ticket from Kota to New Delhi in the Golden Temple Mail in April, 2017, for a journey on July 2. As the ticket, priced at 765, was wait listed, he cancelled it and received 665 as refund. 100 was deducted instead of 65 against cancellation of a wait listed ticket. I have been following up the case since 2017 and was given only assurances that the amount would be refunded, Swami said. The extra amount of 35 was charged to him as service tax, even though he cancelled the ticket prior to the implementation of GST. The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) in its reply to the RTI filed by Swami, said that as per the commercial circular number 43 of the Ministry of Railways, for tickets booked before the implementation of GST and cancelled after implementation, service tax charged at the time of booking shall not be refunded. So, 100 ( 65 as clerical charge and 35 as service tax) was charged against the cancelled ticket. The RTI reply further said it was later decided that for tickets booked before July 1, 2017, and cancelled, the total amount of service tax charged at the time of booking shall be refunded. So, a sum of Rs. 35 will be refunded, the IRCTC had said in its reply to Swamis RTI query. Swami received 33 in his bank account on May 1, 2019. He had earlier moved a petition in Lok Adalat in April 2018, which, he said, was disposed of in January 2019, saying that the matter was out of its jurisdiction. I kept following the matter through RTIs. It was a long battle I had to fight. My RTIs were transferred 10 times from one department to another from December 2018 till April end. Finally, I have received 33 in bank account, Swami told PTI. He said that instead of compensating him for the harassment caused, the IRCTC deducted 2 from the refund amount. I will follow the case again as the IRCTC had said it will refund 35 as per its commercial circular number 49, Swami said. However, he is not the only person affected. Another RTI filed by him showed that there were over 9 lakh passengers who booked their tickets before implementation of GST and cancelled them between July 1 to July 11, when the service tax was charged. The total service tax charged from these passengers amounts to 3.34 crore. Most of the passengers did not even know about it and must have forgotten, Swami said, quoting the reply to his RTI. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar was designated as a global terrorist because India is now seen as a nation that will leave no stone unturned to ensure the safety and security of its citizens. Pakistan-based Masood Azhar was designated as a global terrorist on May 1 after China withdrew its long-standing block to the move. Beijing had blocked the move four times. The terror tag for Azhar, seen as a major diplomatic victory for India, was possible after continued pressure by the US on China. The US even threatened to take the matter UN Security Council, where discussions are held in public, unlike consultations held behind closed doors. Exclusive | This election will be Indias turning point: PM Modi In an interview to Hindustan Times, PM Modi said Azhars listing was a byproduct of his governments India First foreign policy which has brought about a fundamental paradigm shift. The PM stressed that the Masood Azhar issue isnt about China but about global terrorism. We are now seen and respected as a nation that will leave no stone unturned to ensure the safety and security of its citizens. This is the reason major nations of the world stood with our decision of surgical strikes and air strikes. This is also the reason why the long-pending listing of Masood Azhar as a global terrorist has happened. But the Azhar issue isnt about China. Why do we keep making it so? It is a global terrorism issue, Modi said. Also Read | What is the difference between Modi of 2014 and 2019? This is what the PM said Masood Azhar was listed by the UNs 1267 Sanctions Committee for his association with al-Qaeda and his role in financing, planning and facilitating terrorist acts by the JeM. PM Modi said India and China are leading power centres who understand that there is a lot more common ground between them. Both our countries realise and accept that we have disagreements but we are also conscious of the fact that we will not let these disagreements become disputes, he added. Differences have cropped in the RSS over the Supreme Courts verdict allowing women of all ages into Keralas Sabarimala temple as some senior leaders have called for changes in age-old rituals and suggested intervention by religious leaders to take a decision. But Sabarimala Karma Samithi, an apex body of Hindu outfits that spearheaded the agitation against the top courts verdict in September last year, and Ready to Wait activists have vehemently opposed the stance. Both took to social media to vent out their ire. Ready to Wait is a collective of women floated after the top court gave its judgment and have said they will enter the hilltop shrine only after they attain the permissible age. It all began after senior RSS leader and former all-India boudhik pramukh R Haris articles in Rashtriya Swayamsewak Sangh-supported weekly Kesari exhorting religious leaders to help change some of the outdated customs and rituals in the community. Hari had also written an article hailing the Supreme Court verdict in RSS mouthpiece Janmabhumi last year. Hindu Ikya Vedi leader RV Babu had also supported him, saying these changes should come from religious leaders, not from the government. But for Sabarimala Karma Samiti and Ready to Wait, the suggestions were difficult to digest and they came out openly against the senior leader. Sanku T Das, one of the vocal leaders, alleged in his Facebook post that Hari has a personal interest in supporting the entry of all women in Sabarimala. He also said Hari has taken his position as belongs to the Gowda Saraswath Brahmin community, which is against tantric rituals. During the election, the CPI(M) took out copies of articles written by Hari to embarrass the BJPs candidates, he said adding his arguments provided enough fuel to those who supported the verdict. Ready to Wait has also decried the move to dilute the ongoing struggle. Many suffered badly during the agitation. But now we feel it was a part of a larger political agenda, wrote Padma Pillai of the collective. Women in the 10-50 age group (childbearing age) were barred in Sabarimala in Pathanamthitta district citing the celibate nature of the presiding deity, Lord Ayyappa. But the custom was revoked by the Supreme Court on September 28, 2018, leading to massive protests in the state. Initially, everyone welcomed the verdict but later some political parties including the BJP jumped on the bandwagon to protest the order sensing widespread resentment of devotees and traditionalists. The Bharatiya Janata Party even made it an issue in the recently-held Lok Sabha election in the southern state. Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra hit out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi at election rallies in UP on Thursday and held a road show in Sultanpur, from where her aunt and Union women development minister Maneka Gandhi is contesting. Riding in an open-roof vehicle, Priyanka Gandhis two-hour road show included party candidate Sanjay Singh and almost came face-to-face with the cavalcade of Maneka Gandhi, who was returning after attending a rally addressed by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) chief Amit Shah. Security personnel averted a confrontation and diverted Maneka Gandhis cavalcade. Priyanka Gandhi did not address the media or any gathering.The Sultanpur seat, which is adjacent to the Congress bastions of Amethi and Rae Bareli, was won by Manekas son Varun Gandhi in 2014. Sultanpur will go to the polls on May 12 . Congress chief Rahul Gandhi had held a meeting in the area last month. Earlier in the day in Pratapgarh, Priyanka Gandhi hit out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi, describing him as the most cowardly and weak PM she had ever seen. The power of politics does not come from a publicity blitz and hogging the limelight on television, she said. Accusing the central government of lying on everything, Priyanka Gandhi said the BJP had failed to fulfill the promise of providing 20 million jobs annually and claimed that 50 million people lost their livelihood during last five years. She also said that Modi promised to double farmers income, but failed. Farmers are struggling to even get seeds and fertilisers on time. Thousands of worried farmers rushed to Delhi but the prime minister did not have even five minutes to meet them and hear their problems, she said. Reacting to Priyankas comments, BJPs Prayagraj unit president Awadhesh Gupta said that bravery of PM Modi is being acknowledged by the whole country following the strong reply given following the Pulwama terror attack. These remarks by Congress general secretary is a result of the frustration her party is feeling while staring at defeat in Lok Sabha polls, he added. Groups of peoplemost of them women students, activists, academics and lawyersstaged a protest on Wednesday in New Delhis Connaught Place against the alleged violation of procedure in connection with the sexual harassment allegation against Chief Justice of India (CJI) Ranjan Gogoi. Police removed as many as 17 protesters from Block A and detained at the Mandir Marg police station for three hours. Our protest was not against an individual, but against the violation of procedure in connection with the CJI sexual harassment case. We are fighting to have a better procedure in place, Amrita Johri, a Delhi-based RTI activist who was a part of the protests, said. Another protester, Annie Raja, a womens rights activist, said, The woman in this case could not appear for a cross examination before the inquiry committee because she was not allowed to be accompanied by a lawyer. Now that the committee has prepared a report, she is being denied a copy of it. This is violation of procedure and it will set a wrong precedent for all sexual harassment cases. According to the police, the protesters were asked to move to Jantar Mantar, and when they refused, they were detained in adherence to a standing order of the Delhi Police and Supreme Court guidelines which allow Section 144 (prohibitory order against gatherings in public places) of the Code of Criminal Procedure to be invoked in such cases. It was a law and order issue due to which we had to detain 17 protesters. They were released soon after, DCP (New Delhi) Madhur Verma said. Meanwhile, a statement purportedly issued by the Supreme Court Employees Welfare Association surfaced on social media. It said: We express solidarity with the CJI. We have never seen these kind of allegations against the judiciary. We all have been working here for years but we have never come across these kind of allegations. On Monday, a three-member inquiry committee dismissed a complaint of sexual harassment registered against Gogoi by a former court employee. The courts secretary general said the committee found no substance in the allegations made by the 35-year-old woman in the complaint sent to 22 judges on April 19. The court official also said that the inquiry committees report was not liable to be made public. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjees war of words reached new heights on Thursday with PM Modi alleging that Trinamool Congress (TMC) leaders in Purulia and Bankura were working as coal mafias and Banerjee hitting back by asking the Prime Minister to do 100 sit-ups holding his ears if he is proved wrong. The latest round came after the two exchanged barbs earlier this week, with Banerjee saying on Tuesday that when PM Modi comes to Bengal and alleges tolabazi (extortion), she feels like giving him a slap of democracy, raising her right hand in a motion of slapping. Didi said she wants to slap Modi. Didi, I respect you as an elder sister. Your slap will be a blessing for me. But I would like to say that if you really had the courage to slap those who took away chit fund money, you would not have been so scared today, PM Modi said on Thursday, while addressing an election rally in Bengals Bankura district. Didis frustration can be measured from her language. I am used to abuses, but Didi is even insulting the Constitution. She is publicly saying that she is not ready to recognize the countrys Prime Minister. However, she is proud to recognize Pakistans Prime Minister, PM Modi claimed. She is such an egotist that she does not want to talk to the countrys Prime Minister, he said. Incidentally, Banerjee has been referring to PM Modi as Expiry Babu and Expiry Prime Minister and even refused to talk to PM Modi, when he tried to contact her to inquire about the impact of Cyclone Fani in coastal Bengal. Banerjee later argued that Modi is merely heading a caretaker government. What irked the West Bengal CM most on Thursday was the prime ministers allegation that she had sacrificed the interests of the people to protect the interests of her family members and corrupt party leaders. Didi first ruined Bengal with her addiction for power. Now she is ruining it further in the fear of losing power. She cares only for her chair, her family, her nephew the extortionists and no one else, PM Modi alleged. The TMC has made mafias part of the government, he claimed, adding, Didi is busy building her nephews career. Responding in a couple of hours, Banerjee thundered from a rally in the same district, If you can prove even one TMC candidate is a coal mafia, I shall withdraw all 42 candidates. But if you have lied, you will have to hold your ears and do 100 sit-ups before the people. Coal is administered by the Centre. It is guarded by the CISF. BJP men are the agents. How can TMC men be coal mafia? You have to explain, she said. Both PM Modi and Banerjee addressed rallies in Bankura and Purulia districts on Thursday. The prime minister alleged at both rallies that TMC was linked with the coal mafia. Sharpening her attack on PM Modi from the Bankura rally, the West Bengal CM said that PM Modi looks like Ravana and rules like Duryodhana. Dont accuse my family. I am alone, the people are my family. You have your wife, but do you take care of her? You dont care for your wife and you speak about the families of others? Dont you have any shame? she asked. Banerjee also invited PM Modi to a debate. I challenge PM Modi to a debate on Indias history. There will be no papers or teleprompters. You will ask me questions to which I shall reply, and I shall ask you questions, to which you have to respond. Explaining her slap remark from a rally at Purulia later in the day, she said, I have never told you that I shall slap you. Why should I slap you? I have said slap of democracy, please try to understand the language. People will defeat you in the elections. That is the slap of democracy. A day after Prime Minister Narendra Modi accused the late Rajiv Gandhi of misusing INS Viraat as his personal taxi during a vacation to Lakshadweep and hosting foreigners on board in 1987, the then skipper of the aircraft carrier on Thursday contradicted the claim stressing that the former PM embarked the vessel in his official capacity and there were no foreign nationals aboard. On Thursday, the Congress addressed three press conferences during the day to challenge Modis allegations, citing statements of three former Navy Vice Admirals, who claimed that then prime minister Rajiv Gandhi was on an official visit to Lakshadweep when he also visited INS Viraat, an aircraft carrier. Vice Admiral Vinod Pasricha (retd), who was then the captain of INS Viraat, said Rajiv Gandhi boarded the warship in his capacity as the PM that December, spent two nights on board, and that no foreigners accompanied him. Exclusive | Why would one holiday on an aircraft carrier?: Rahul Gandhi At an election rally at Ramlila grounds here on Wednesday, Modi claimed the former PM used the carrier as a personal taxi during a 10-day holiday and his in-laws were with him. Modi said, The ship was on duty but was diverted to pick up the Gandhis. Rajiv Gandhis in-laws were also present. Should foreigners have been carried on an Indian warship? Wasnt this playing with Indias security? Pasricha, who retired in 2002 as the Western Naval Command chief, asserted that none of the allegations were true. Had foreigners boarded the carrier, I would have been court-martialled long ago. I dont know why these things are being raked up now, the 76-year-old said. He said Rajiv Gandhi was accompanied by his wife Sonia, son Rahul and a couple of IAS officers. We hosted a dinner for them in the wardroom so that the crew could meet the PM. The Gandhis did not have any parties on board. I find this controversy quite amusing, he added. Also Read | Rajiv Gandhi used INS Viraat for a holiday: PM Modi fires another salvo A top retired navy officer, familiar with Gandhis stay on the vessel, endorsed Pasrichas version, adding that it was not uncommon for PMs and their spouses to board warships in their official capacity. Its time we stop the politicization of the armed forces, this person said on the condition of anonymity. Pasricha said the Gandhis embarked the warship off Trivandrum in December-end 1987. He said a few naval divers were sent ashore for safety during their visit to Bangaram island as the then PM and his wife were planning to scuba dive for half hour. Former navy chief Admiral L Ramdas, who was then commanding the Cochin-based Southern Naval Command and was on board INS Viraat, said in a statement that no ships were diverted for the personal use of the Gandhi family. Four other warships were with INS Viraat as part of a pre-scheduled fleet exercise, he said, adding that only a small helicopter was left at Kavaratti to meet any emergency medical requirements of the PM and his wife. However, Commander VK Jaitly (retd), who was then a lieutenant and a weapons maintenance officer on the warship, said, Rajiv and Sonia Gandhi used INS Viraat for travel to celebrate their holidays at Bangaram island. Indian Navy resources were used extensively. I am a witness. I was posted on INS Viraat that time. He said preparations for the VVIP visit began a month in advance. Reacting to the Viraat row, Congress leader Abhishek Singhvi said this kind of disinformation was not new and Modi and his government hold a Guinness record on lies and propaganda. Citing a media report, Congress chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala said on Twitter, Distraction and fakery is your last resort. You have made Indian Air Force jets your own Taxi! You have paid as low as 744 for using IAF jets for election trips! , Taking a dig at Congress, union minister Arun Jaitley tweeted, The Kaamdars use Indias Naval assets to strike at terror. The Naamdars use them for personal vacations with family and in-laws. BJP spokesperson Sanjay Mayukh said, Is Jhoot ka jawab janta May 23 ko degi, he said (the people will respond to these lies on May 23). The collegium for the appointment of judges on Thursday resent names of two justices to the government for elevation to the Supreme Court, days after the Centre had returned the two names . The collegium also recommended two more names for promotion to the top court -- Justice BR Gavai of Bombay High court and Suya Kant, chief justice Himachal Pradesh High Court. The Centre had returned the Supreme Court collegiums recommendation to elevate Jharkhand high court Chief Justice Aniruddha Bose and Gauhati high court Chief Justice AS Bopanna, asking the body to reconsider its decision. Justice Bose, whose parent high court is Calcutta, is at number 12 in the all-India seniority of judges. Justice Bopanna, whose parent high court is Karnataka, stands at number 36. This is not the first time the disagreement and the judiciary have disagreed over the appointment of judges. Last April, the Centre returned a file recommending justice KM Josephs appointment, which was first cleared by the collegium in January 2018. The government contended that justice Joseph was not senior enough and that the Kerala high court, his parent HC, was adequately represented. His name was reiterated by the collegium in July, eventually leading to the government clearing his appointment. The seniority issue is particularly important if a judge is line to become the future CJI. The Supreme Court has dismissed sacked BSF jawan Tej Bahadurs plea challenging Election Commissions decision to scrap his Varanasi nomination for Lok Sabha polls. Tej Bahadur Yadav, who moved the Supreme Court on May 6, termed the decision of the poll panel discriminatory and unreasonable and said it should be set aside. Tej Bahadur Yadavs nomination papers were rejected because he had slipped up on the paperwork. A government employee dismissed from services within the last five years needs to produce a certificate from the Election Commission to certify that dismissal wasnt due to disloyalty to the country or corruption. Yadav was sacked from BSF for his video complaining about the food in 2017. Also read: BSF jawan sacked for video on food quality is SPs new Varanasi candidate In a surprise announcement last week, the Samajwadi Party had replaced Shalini Yadav with Tej Bahadur Yadav to contest against Prime Minister Narendra Modi from Varanasi. PM Modi had won the seat in 2014 with a 56 per cent share of the votes polled. Ajai Rai was a distant third with 7 per cent votes; Aam Aadmi Partys Arvind Kejriwal was second with 20 per cent votes. Tej Bahadur Yadav had announced his decision to file his papers from Varanasi as an Independent last month. He had had said there were multiple offers to him from political parties to contest on their ticket. Margaret Trudeau is, in person, exceptionally arresting, an active listener who fixes an intense gaze upon any partner in conversation. Her formidable intellect is immediately obvious, as are her outspokenness, eloquence, vulnerability and personal charm. Words spill rapidly. Some are quips tailored to journalistic needs (Im nervous. Ive never had a director before. Only husbands), but most of what she has to say is direct and disarming in its sincerity. She speaks with the knowledge and resolution of vast experience of fame; of years spent as a fish out of governmental waters, challenged by the confines of a life with constant security details around (you feel that someone is always watching), and then flapping around the gossip columns, not necessarily by choice. In this moment, you get the sense everything and nothing could upset her; that is not entirely clear. Providing relief to convicts involved in the assassination of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, the Supreme Court on Thursday set aside petitions filed by families of those who were killed along with the former PM, seeking direction against the Tamil Nadu governments initiatives to release them. Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi who heard the petitions, ruled out their prayers saying that the SC had already heard them. The court has already passed directions to state and central governments. Tamil Nadu Governor has to decide on this subject, the SC said in its direction. TN Congress leaders Americai Narayanan and Rama Suganthan, the petitioners had urged the apex court to halt the TN governments initiatives to release the seven convicts Murugan, Santhan, Perarivalan, Nalini, Rober Payas, Jayakumar and Ravichandran. Earlier, the TN assembly had passed a resolution seeking the release of the seven convicts. However the convicts petition for release is with the Governor. Reacting to the judgment, Americai Narayanan said the direction of the apex court was painful. As an Indian citizen, I respect the SCs direction. However, I am unhappy with it. Tamil Nadu Governor Banwarilal Purohit should not order the release of these seven convicts as it would set a wrong example, Narayanan said. Arputham Ammal, mother of Perarivalan - one of the convicts welcomed the SCs order saying that it has given her hope about a possible release for her son. My son has spent nearly 28 years in prison. Even as the TN Legislative Assembly and TN Cabinet have passed resolutions, the Governor has not taken a decision yet. Since the SC has clarified that the ball is in the Governors court, he should decide immediately, Arputham Ammal urged. Tamil Nadu Deputy CM and the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) coordinator O Panneerselvam said that the TN government will take all possible steps to release the seven convicts associated with the former PMs assassination case. Our late leader J Jayalalithaa had passed a resolution in the TNLA urging the Centre to release all the seven convicts in 2014. Our current governments cabinet has also passed a resolution with the same plea and it was sent to the TN Governor. We will urge the Governor to release the seven convicts, O Panneerselvam told the media at Madurai. While the ruling AIADMK and opposition Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) are in favour of releasing the seven convicts, both the national parties BJP and Congress are against it. Speaking about the contradictory stances of party leaders, KS Alagiri, President, Tamil Nadu Congress Committee said, Our leaders Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra have already said that they have forgiven the suicide bomber and the men behind the attack. It is their personal opinion. However, going by the law is our partys official stance. Our alliance partners may have their own views on this. No one can pressurize the governor to release the seven people. Meanwhile, Senior Advocate Tamil Mani observed that both the national parties were unlikely to support the release of all the seven convicts. Without the Central Governments consent, the TN Governor will not release the seven convicts. If the Tamil Nadu government wants to release them, it should bring an amendment in the Indian Code of Criminal Procedures Section 433. To release the convicts who have completed two-life terms in Tamil Nadu prisons under TNs jurisdiction, the government should bring in an amendment to 433AA, Mani opined. A petition that demanded a probe into Congress president Rahul Gandhis citizenship has been dismissed by the Supreme Court. The petition, which also wanted the court to debar the 48-year-old from contesting national elections, had argued that Rahul Gandhi was listed as a British citizen in a company report. Some company in some form has mentioned Rahul Gandhi as British citizen, so does he becomes British citizen? Dismissed, Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi said. The Home Minsitry had earlier issued a notice to the Congress president to explain his position over complaints on his citizenship. The complaint has been filed by BJP MP Subramanian Swamy who has alleged that Gandhi is a British citizen. Also Read: Govt notice to Rahul Gandhi over citizenship complaint, Congress says fake narrative The home ministry said it had received a representation from Dr Subramanian Swamy in which it has been brought out that a company named Backops Limited was registered in the United Kingdom in the year 2003, with address 51 Southgate Street, Winchester, Hampshire SO23 9EH and that you were one of the directors and secretary of the said company. It has been brought out in the complaint that in the complaint that in the companys annual returns filed on 10/10/2005 and 31/10/2006, your date of birth has been given as 19/06/1970 and that you have declared your nationality as British. Further, in the dissolution application dated 17/02/2009 of the above refereed company, your nationality has been mentioned as British, says the letter from BC Joshi, director of citizenship, home ministry. The Congress had dismissed the issue saying the notice was a political move by the BJP to divert the attention of the public from key issues. The entire world knows Rahul Gandhi is Indian citizen by birth. Modi ji has no answer for unemployment, he has no answer for agrarian distress and black money, thats why hes resorting to fake narrative, said Congress spokesperson Randeep Surjewala. The BJP had raised allegations of discrepancies in Rahul Gandhis nomination form for Amethi Lok Sabha seat. His nomination papers were found valid by the returning officer. A petition was also filed in the Lucknow bench of the Allahabad high court that wanted the judges to cancel Rahul Gandhis Lok Sabha membership, claiming that the Congress leader had filed tax returns in London in which he was described as a British national. A war of words between Narendra Modi and chief minister Mamata Banerjee escalated on Thursday as the prime minister accused West Bengals ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) leaders in the states Purulia and Bankura districts of having links with the coal mafia. Banerjee hit back later in the day and asked Modi to do 100 sit-ups holding his ears if he is proved wrong. The two exchanged barbs earlier this week as well amid a bitter national election campaign in West Bengal, which has the most (42) Lok Sabha seats after Uttar Pradesh (80) and Maharashtra (48). The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has been trying to make inroads into states like West Bengal to make up for the possible loss of seats in its western and north Indian strongholds like Uttar Pradesh, where it peaked in 2014 by winning 71 seats. Banerjee on Tuesday said that she felt like giving Modi a slap of democracy when he comes to Bengal and accuses her party of tolabazi [extortion]. Modi responded to Banerjees remark on Thursday. Didi [Banerjee] said she wants to slap Modi. Didi, I respect you Your slap will be a blessing to me. But if you really had the courage to slap those who ate away chit fund money, you would not have been so scared today, Modi said at an election rally in Bankura, which would go to the polls in the sixth phase of Lok Sabha elections on May 12. The reference to chit fund money was an allusion to the Saradha Group scandal in which thousands of poor and middle-class people lost their life savings. Didis frustration can be measured from her language. I am used to abuses, but Didi is even insulting the Constitution. She is publicly saying that she is not ready to recognise the countrys prime minister. However, she is proud to recognise Pakistans prime minister, Modi claimed. She is such an egotist that she does not want to talk to the countrys prime minister. Banerjee has been referring to Modi as expiry babu and expiry prime minister. She refused to talk to Modi when he tried to contact her to inquire about the impact of cyclone Fani that hit coastal Bengal last week. Banerjee has argued that Modi is merely heading a caretaker government while the elections are being held. Modi accused Banerjee of sacrificing the peoples interest to protect those of her family and corrupt party leaders. Didi first ruined Bengal for the addiction of power. Now she is ruining it further in the fear of losing power. She cares only for her chair, her family, her nephew, the extortionists and no one else, Modi alleged. He said the TMC has made mafia a part of the government. Didi is busy building her nephews career, the PM said, referring to Lok Sabha member Abhishek Banerjee. Banerjee responded at a rally in the same district hours later, saying she shall withdraw all 42 Lok Sabha candidates in West Bengal if Modi can prove even one of them is linked to the coal mafia. But if you have lied, you have to hold your ears and do 100 sit-ups before the people. Banerjee said the Centre administers coal mining and the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) guards the mines. The BJP men are the agents. How can TMC men be coal mafia? You have to explain. Banerjee said that Modi looks like Ravana and rules like Duryodhana. Dont accuse my family. I am alone, the people are my family. You have your wife, but do you take care of her? You do not care for your wife and you speak about the families of others? Dont you have any shame? Banerjee challenged Modi to a debate on Indian history. There will be no papers or teleprompters. You will ask me questions to which I shall reply, and I shall ask you questions, to which you have to respond. She explained her slap remark. I have never said that I shall slap you. Why should I slap you? I have said slap of democracy.Please try to understand the language. People will defeat you in the elections. That is the slap of democracy. The Supreme Court on Thursday dismissed former Border Security Force (BSF) jawan Tej Bahadur Yadavs petition questioning the Election Commission (EC) decision to reject his nomination papers from Varanasi, from where Prime Minister Narendra Modi is a contestant. We do not find any grounds to entertain the plea, a bench led by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and comprising justices Deepak Gupta and Sanjiv Khanna held. Yadav had challenged the returning officers decision to reject his nomination papers and alleged it was intended to give a walkover to the Prime Minister. The EC counsel, senior advocate Rakesh Dwivedi, opposed Yadavs plea and called it premature. He said such a petition could be filed only after the polls were over and it was not maintainable. He referred to various SC verdicts that election petitions cannot be admitted while the poll process is underway. Advocate Prashant Bhushan, appearing for Yadav, countered the argument and said that as per an earlier verdict a petition could be filed during the enforcement of the model code of conduct. But he later sought liberty to file a petition after polling is over. At this, the bench said, We have done what we could have done. We find no grounds to entertain this petition. The top court had on Wednesday asked the EC to examine Yadavs grievances. His nomination papers, filed as a Samajwadi Party (SP) candidate, were rejected on May 1. The EC official held that Yadav had failed to furnish a certificate, as mandated under the Representation of the People Act, that he had not been dismissed for corruption or disloyalty to the state. Yadav hit the headlines after a video he posted complaining about the food served to troops went viral in 2017. He was dismissed from the BSF for breaching service conditions. The Samajwadi Party had initially named Shalini Yadav as its candidate against Modi. Then it replaced her with the sacked BSF jawan but was finally forced to revert to its original choice. The Supreme Court made it clear once again on Wednesday that it will not extend even by a day the July 31 deadline for finalisation of the National Register of Citizens in Assam and gave free hand to the coordinator to deal with complaints. A bench comprising Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and Justice RF Nariman asked Prateek Hajela, the Assam NRC coordinator, to deal with the claims and objections of persons against wrong exclusion or inclusion of citizens in the draft NRC. The direction came after Hajela informed the bench that many persons, who had objected to inclusion of certain individuals in the draft NRC, are not coming forward before the panels dealing with such complaints. You decide it. If they (who have objected to inclusion of names in draft NRC) are not pursuing the objections, then law will take its own course. Whatever you do, the date is July 31. It can be a day earlier but not a day later, the bench told Hajela. The court told Hajela to use his wise discretion and keep the law in mind while deciding objections on inclusion of certain individuals in the draft NRC. The bench said if those who have filed objections would not appear to pursue it then Hajela can proceed as per the law. We have told you to take wise decision. We are giving you a free hand to exercise your discretion. Keep the law in mind and decide it, it said. On our consideration of the report and after interacting with Hajela, all that would be required to be recorded is that the process of preparation of the final NRC shall continue to ensure that the publication of the final NRC is made on or before July 31, 2019, the bench said in its order. The state coordinator is free to deal with all incidental issues, that may arise, in his wise discretion and in accordance with law, it said. The bench, which posted the matter for further hearing on July 10, granted liberty to Hajela to mention the matter before registrar (judicial) of the apex court on any day during the summer vacation, if urgent orders are required in the case. On April 10, the apex court had asked Hajela to take steps to minimise the inconvenience of the people who have filed claims before the authorities after being left out in the draft NRC. Hajela had last month submitted before the court that the citizenship claims of left out persons were being verified on the basis of family tree and land records. Verification of claims on the basis of family tree was being conducted near the place where most of the relatives of the claimant are residing, he had said. On February 5, the apex court had observed that the Centre was hell bent on stalling the Assam NRC work while rapping it for seeking suspension of the process during the polls citing non-availability of security forces. The draft Assam NRC was published on July 30, 2018 in which the names of 2.89 crore of the 3.29 crore people were included. The names of 40,70,707 people did not figure in the list. Of these, 37,59,630 names have been rejected and the remaining 2,48,077 are on hold. The first draft of Assam NRC was published on the intervening night of December 31, 2017 and January 1 in accordance with the top courts direction. Names of 1.9 crore people out of the 3.29 crore applicants were incorporated then. Assam, which had faced influx of people from Bangladesh since the early 20th century, is the only state to have an NRC, first prepared in 1951. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has decided to confront Riyas Aboobacker, arrested last week in connection with Islamic States Kasargod module, with members of the Coimbatore module of the terror outfit, said two officials with knowledge of the probe. It was the Coimbatore module, busted in September 2018, through which Indian agencies got a clue that Maulvi Zahran bin Hashim, a Sri Lanka-based radical Islamic preacher, was preparing for major attacks and accordingly, alerted authorities in that country. Over 250 people were killed when suicide bombers, including Hashim, blew themselves up in several cities in Sri Lanka on Easter Sunday. Aboobacker, currently in NIA custody, has revealed that he had come to know about Hashim a few years ago through a person in Coimbatore and started following the preacher, according to an official. Abdul Rashid Abdulla, the leader of the Kasargod module of IS, of which 22 people, including women and children had travelled to Afghanistan, had also convinced him to follow the speeches of Hashim, said one of the NIA officials cited above. NIA suspects Aboobacker was in touch with some members of the Coimbatore module. IS suspects of that module too had said they were inspired by Hashims speeches, said the official. It all seems connected. First, Aboobacker, a member of Keralas Kasargod module, was in touch with Coimbatore module. Then, Zahran, through his videos, exhorted Muslim youth from Sri Lanka, Tamil Nadu and Kerala to come together and establish an Islamic rule here. And subsequently, Aboobacker was preparing to carry out bombings in Kerala. We need to confront him with common suspects to connect the dots, said a second official. Aboobacker also took regular instructions from Abdulla, who is believed to be operating from a third country, most likely Afghanistan, according to an Intelligence Bureau official. A lipstick pistol, a button-hole camera, a lethal umbrella and an authentic waterboarding table: the espionage worlds heroic, ingenious and sordid sides are all on show in Washingtons all-new, much-expanded International Spy Museum. The hugely popular showplace that once conjured James Bond and Austin Powers as much as it did actual life-and-death Cold War intrigue has grown and, in the tailwind of 9/11 and the War on Terror, grown up. Relocated in a gleaming new steel and glass building double the size of its former premises, the Spy Museum still amazes and charms with the tales and gadgets of the undercover world going back centuries. But now it also depicts the complex and often unsettling challenges of the world of shadows, with visitors asked in clever interactive games and simulated situation rooms to decide: could I be an intelligence agent? Disguises, microdots, suicide needles The Spy Museum has been one of the US capitals most popular private destinations since it opened in 2002. The new premises open officially on Sunday, just ahead of the summer tourist season. On show, as before, is the iconic Aston Martin DB5 from 1964s James Bond thriller Goldfinger. But now there is also room for an equally sleek 1980s Amber surveillance drone, the precursor of the Predator. There is a British World War II one-man submarine, and an actual section of the CIA/MI6 tunnel that penetrated East Berlin in the 1950s to tap Soviet communications. And there are gadgets galore: a pregnant woman disguise from the CIA and a suicide needle hidden in a silver dollar coin, for use by Francis Gary Powers, the U2 spy plane pilot shot down by the Soviet Union in 1960. There are historical encryption machines, including Germanys Enigma, and a display on the microdot technology central to spying for decades last century. Among all manner of odd items throughout the museum are a saboteurs exploding lump of coal, pills that CIA operatives entering Cuba could use to sedate barking dogs and the sketchbook of a KGB agent operating undercover in New York in the 1950s. The objectives of spies have not changed over the centuries, said Keith Melton, whose massive collection of espionage gear is the core of the museum. The only thing that has changed is the technology, and how they accomplish the objectives. Could you be an agent? The museums coverage is global, and mostly without judgement. Chinas theft of US secrets and technology is on display; so is the theft, centuries ago, of Chinas silkworm and tea cultivation know-how by Westerners. Woven in between are engaging, well-designed interactive exhibits and challenges that press the question: what would the visitor do? One tests a persons lock picking ability, while another takes visitors through a series of tests of memory, judgment and observation in a simulated spy operation. In yet another, visitors take the role of CIA analysts in the 2011 situation room where, holding deeply imperfect intelligence, they must decide whether to advise President Barack Obama to approve a raid on the Abbottabad, Pakistan compound possibly housing Osama Bin Laden. Complex issues are engaged and not whitewashed. The museum puts on show the spying worlds failures, including a display of the actual intelligence that, if it had drawn more attention, might have helped prevent Al-Qaedas September 11, 2001 attack. And, with a waterboard on display and a video discussion of actual participants, there is a disquieting debate on the CIAs use of torture after 9/11. The essence of espionage The museum has its roots in the 7,000-piece collection of Melton, a navy veteran and engineer who, beginning in the 1960s travelled the world to amass. He advertised that he was a buyer of any spy technology, and he sought out and befriended agents and officials from all sides of the Cold War game. As the wall fell in Berlin, I was there, he said, and the collections extensive spyware from East Germanys Stasi service is the result. Weeks after the Soviet Union crumbled in December 1991, he travelled to Moscow. I went and knocked on the door of KGB headquarters and said Im here to buy spy equipment, Melton said. While he raised some suspicions, many realized he was a genuine collector who didnt talk about politics. I like gadgets, they like gadgets, he said. Cameras, microdots, coding machines, short range transmitters: thats the essence of espionage. The pride of his collection is gruesome, but he spent four decades seeking it: the ice axe that Joseph Stalins assassins used to murder Leon Trotsky in Mexico in 1940, in the climax of an intense three-year intelligence operation. Melton is hugely proud of the new museum, but somewhat wistful about the new digital age, in which computer technology has replaced many espionage tools. I think we are past the golden era of spy devices. This is now the most powerful spy device in the world, he said, pointing to his smartphone. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON We all love getting gifts from our relatives. This man, however, got something that is now creating a stir. CBC News reports that a few years back Abraham Reyes received a pearl from his aunt. Weighing 27 kilograms, it could be the worlds biggest natural pearl with an estimated value between $60 million to $90 million. Its believed that the pearl is more than 1,000 years old. Dubbed as Giga Pearl, it has been in Reyess family since 1959. However, the family neither knew the object was a pearl nor did they know about its value because it doesnt look like a pearl. Rather, the white and cream-coloured object looks more like a huge tooth to them. Reyes, who works as a mineral broker, got suspicious and had it checked by the experts. That is when the truth was revealed. To hold and display the Giga Pearl, he got a 22-karat gold leaf octopus designed. Its priceless to me, Reyes told CBC News. Further adding, the world should know that it does exist. From lining up six rallies by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to deputing seasoned poll managers to sharpen electioneering, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is pulling out all stops in West Bengal ahead of the last two phases of the general elections. With 17 of the states 42 Lok Sabha seats going to the polls on May 12 and 19, the BJP is aspiring to pull off as good a showing in Bengal as it did in Uttar Pradesh in 2014 (it had won 71 of 80 seats). Locked in a no-holds-barred contest with Mamata Banerjees Trinamool Congress (TMC), the saffron party has set itself the ambitious target of winning 20-plus seats in the state. Apart from six rallies by the Prime Minister, BJP national president Amit Shah is scheduled to hold a rally in Kolkatas Jadavpur on May 13, followed by a roadshow in the city. The party is hoping these events will give a fillip to its voter outreach. It has also deputed senior leaders Himanta Biswa Sarma, Sunil Deodhar and Arvind Menon to chalk out strategy. KEY PLAYERS Sunil Deodhar: Deodhar, who shot to fame after handling PM Modis Varanasi constituency in 2014 and is credited with the BJPs big win in the communist bastion of Tripura in 2018, has now been drafted in for Bengal. He said just as the BJPs 2014 victory in Uttar Pradesh had come as a surprise, the 2019 Bengal results would be a revelation. In Bengal, the election is between the people and the police -- while the people are with the BJP, the police are with the TMC and guilty of carrying out excesses against the people. What the CPM [Communist Party of India Marxist] was doing in Tripura is what the TMC is doing here, the only difference being that Mamata Banerjee has no control over her party cadre, Deodhar, who was also in charge of the 2019 Andhra Pradesh campaign, said. He said efforts were underway to strengthen booth-level management, ensure a large turnout and push for deployment of more central forces in the last two phases. Himanta Biswa Sarma: Sarma, who is the Assam finance minister and a key functionary overseeing polls in the Northeast, has begun work in the state where the BJP is expecting to coalesce Hindu voters, party officials aware of developments said. He is also credited with bringing back the Asom Gana Parishad into the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) fold after the fallout over the Citizenship Amendment Bill. Sarma could not be reached for comment. His rallies are well attended; he brings in a lot of energy and connects with the crowds. He is good with strategy in critical situations, said a BJP functionary in Bengal on condition of anonymity. Arvind Menon: A Bengali-speaking Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) man, Menon has been made co-in-charge of Bengal. He played a key role in the 2017 Gujarat assembly election. Menon speaks little but has used his RSS training to build the party from the grassroots. The partys presence has grown across the state and it is no longer supported only in urban areas, the functionary quoted above said. The RSS, too, has been pitching in. As in other states, its workers have been doing door-to-door campaigning to enthuse people to go out and vote. A senior RSS functionary said the BJPs assertion that both its seats and vote share would increase was not without reason. He said the party vote share had gone up from 4% in the 2011 assembly polls to 10.16% in 2016. Besides, the BJP coming a close second in a number of panchayat seats in the March panchayat elections had stirred hope that it would better its 2014 vote share of 17%. In the panchayat polls, the BJP made gains in tribal areas and in districts such as Purulia and Jhargram, which were considered Maoist bastions. According to Rakesh Sinha, BJP Rajya Sabha MP, West Bengal developed a dislike for Mamata Banerjee because of her extreme love for politics of minority appeasement and her anti-Hindu attitude. Her consistent anti-federal stance and extremely hateful utterances against Narendra Modi alienated her from the masses. Another factor which weakened her is that the TMC as an organisation has crumbled and there is no bridge between her and the masses. Former Union railway minister and Trinamool MP Dinesh Trivedi said, The BJP has no idea about the spirit of India, leave alone Bengal. There have been attempts to divide India on religious lines; the British tried, the Mughals tried but couldnt. Pakistans agenda is to weaken India and divide it on religious lines. The BJP directly or indirectly is carrying forward that agenda of dividing the country on religious basis. But India has stood firm and wont be divided. If BJP continues like this, it will in the future be reduced to what it started from two seats in the Lok Sabha. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON In almost all his election rallies across the country, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been mentioning the successful conduct of Kumbh-2019 in Uttar Pradeshs Prayagraj. Drawing parallel between the Lok Sabha elections and the mega fair, he has also been describing polls as the Kumbh of democracy. There is a reason why the PM has been invoking Kumbh in his poll campaign. Organised for the national and international audience with an unprecedented global branding, 4200-crore Kumbh extravaganza was actually the beginning of the Bharatiya Janata Partys (BJP) poll campaign. With Hindutva and Hindu pride being the inherent message, every event of the Kumbh was played up by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, UP chief minister Yogi Adityanath and his cabinet colleagues. The call given by seers for the construction of Ram temple in Ayodhya and the PM washing the feet of sanitation workers also got wide coverage in the media that helped the BJP to send its message across to its voters. As the fair ended and poll fever gripped the country, the BJP leaders, led by PM Modi and BJP president Amit Shah, kick-started their poll campaign playing up its Kumbh achievements and hitting out at the previous governments for failing to match the standard of the fair. BJP leader and Prayagraj district spokesperson of the party Pawan Srivastava said that BJP had always taken pride in Hindu values and traditions. A grand Kumbh was organised in Prayagraj which will surely benefit the party in 2019 Lok Sabha polls. Election analyst and former professor of political science at the Allahabad University (AU) Prof MP Dubey said, The narrative was clear the saffron party may have failed to keep its promise of constructing Ram temple in Ayodhya due to the hurdles put by opposition parties, Hindu pride was still on its agenda. Development was also portrayed as the key factor for the people to vote back Modi and BJP to power. Though the BJP swept Uttar Pradesh in the 2014 Lok Sabha elections, farm distress, high unemployment rate and the alliance between the Samajwadi Party (SP) and the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) in Uttar Pradesh poses a major challenge to BJPs prospects in 2019. As the BJP realised that loss of seats in Uttar Pradesh may prevent the BJP from returning to power, the party kept politics alive even during Kumbh. At the much-hyped Dharm Sansad too, priests and religious leaders were seen singing praises for Modi and Adityanath for organising the best ever Kumbh, said Prof Dube, who is also the former vice-chancellor of the Uttar Pradesh Rajarshi Tandon Open University (UPRTOU). Even during the 49-day fair when some sects of seers started expressing their unhappiness over delay in Ram temple construction, top BJP leaders managed to placate seers on the issue, he added. Abhay Awasthi, a poll analyst and a member of the Congress party, said everything was planned to provide maximum leverage to the BJP during elections which were set to take place immediately after Kumbh. The fair ended on March 6 with a formal function and the election dates were declared on March 10. First, the Ardh Kumbh was renamed as Kumbh through a government order though it was contrary to the Hindu mythology, scriptures and belief. Thereafter, the name of Allahabad was changed to Prayagraj to increase its religious significance for millions of Hindus, he pointed out. Then the hype started for a Bhavya and Divya Kumbh (grand and divine Kumbh), he said. Awasthi claimed that just before Kumbh crores of rupees were showered as grants for akhadas and seers to get them on their side at a time when the BJPs failure on Ram temple issue was generating heat in the poll year. No wonder then, addressing an election rally in Kaushambi on May 1, Modi went all out to win voters by sharing how he took a dip at Sangam, organised Kumbh successfully, and that too, without any untoward incident, Awasthi said. Modi also spoke on how he washed the feet of sanitation workers after the fair for their efforts in organising Swachch Kumbh his obvious aim was to woo Hindu and Dalit voters that are essential for the partys dream to return to power, he added. TARGET NEHRU During his Kaushambi rally, Modi also hit out at the countrys first Prime Minister Pt Jawaharlal Nehru for the 1954 Kumbh tragedy that allegedly left hundreds dead. Even BJP president Amit Shah, in his April 29 election meeting in Prayagraj, highlighted Kumbh and attacked the Congress for the 1954 Kumbh tragedy. The Kumbh Mela of 1954 was the first ever to be held after Independence but rather than being a landmark event, it witnessed a tragedy. On February 3, 1954, a stampede broke out when lakhs of devotees were at the Kumbh Mela area to take a holy dip on the auspicious occasion of Mauni Amavasya. Nearly 800 people died while a thousand sustained injuries in the incident. A large number of politicians were among the 40 lakh pilgrims and visitors, including the then Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru and former President Rajendra Prasad, who had visited the fair in 1954. Though Nehru is believed not to have taken a dip at Sangam but Rajendra Prasad had offered prayers and taken a dip as per tradition, shared Yogeshwar Tiwari, professor of modern and medieval history at the Allahabad University. Poll analyst and director of GB Pant Social Science Institute Prof Badri Narayan said: Kumbh was not just to showcase the seriousness with which the BJP took Hindu pride but also a model for development. A major part of the 4,200-crore budget allocated for the fair was spent on constructing permanent facilities and developing Prayag. He said there was no denying the fact that a lot of development work was carried out in Prayagraj ahead of Kumbh. Construction and widening of roads, beautification of crossings, construction of flyovers, railway over-bridges and a new civil terminal airport besides development of railway stations were undertaken so that the millions who visit the fair go back with the impression that development has already taken place, he said, adding that the remaining work was done by the partys digital army and propaganda machinery, he added. How successful they finally were would emerge soon on May 23 when the results get declared, he said. VVIP VISITS To ensure that Kumbh continues to get maximum coverage and attention, no stones were left unturned by the BJP and its leaders. A cut-out poster of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, put up barely 50 metres from the Sangam ghat, was presented as a popular selfie point for visitors. The Yogi Adityanath government held a cabinet meeting at the mela area on January 29 and the Centre, with the support of state government, conducted much-hyped tours of foreign diplomats of 90 countries and representatives of 187 countries. Besides, heads of governments like PM of Mauritius Pravind Jugnauth, President Ram Nath Kovind, chief ministers and governors of various states also visited the fair. THREE WORLD RECORDS Kumbh was used as a platform to present a grand spectacle with overt religious tones. The mega fair was almost as encore to the the Rath Yatra of BJP leader Lal Krishna Advani from Somnath to Ayodhya for the Ram temple. The sheer scale and efforts resulted in three Guinness World Records. The records included the largest sanitation drive, largest hand painting theme and the largest parade of buses all in 48 hours with over 18,000 participants. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Call it advertising or call it art. Three Chicago installations with nighttime projections are coming this month to three different city locations, thanks to the new Cirque du Soleil show "Volta," set to arrive outside Soldier Field. By day, the installations will be 10-foot geometric murals inspired by the "Volta" stage sets. By night, the murals will be illuminated and animated by projections, conceived by Empower and designed by Chicago Projection Mapping, LLC. According to an announcement Wednesday, the murals can be seen as follows, lit 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. nightly: Bhadarsa (Faizabad) Aggressive Hinduism has left the Muslims in a quandary in Uttar Pradesh, where until the 2014 Lok Sabha polls, socialist and centrist political groups used to make a beeline to the communitys doorstep at election time. The growing consolidation of Hindus under the banner of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the so-called soft Hindutva it has engendered among its political rivals is contributing to a sense of insecurity among Muslims in Indias most populous state, which elects 80 members to the 543-member Lok Sabha. Mufti Zulfiqar Ali, a resident of Muzaffarnagar, said: The BJP has unleashed a false propaganda against rival parties and created such an atmosphere that even they are compelled to toe the BJPs line to get support of the people. How much it would work to their advantage is hard to say. Some Muslims have started describing themselves privately as the new political untouchables. No party is openly courting them except in constituencies where they make up a decisive majority in the electorate. Issues such as the implementation of the Rjindar Sachar Committees recommendations to improve the Muslims social, economic and educational status have disappeared from the political discourse in Uttar Pradesh. Politically divisive slogans such as kabristan vs. shamshan (graveyard vs. cremation ground) are the new reality. The fear of communal polarisation has compelled the non-BJP parties to temper pro-Muslim overtures, and once firebrand clerics have by and large gone silent. To be sure, the national president of the Jamaat-e-Islami (JIH), Syed Sadatullah Husaini, has issued a circular to the organisations members to work for the Samajwadi Party-Bahujan Samaj Party-Rashtriya Lok Dal (SP-BSP-RLD) alliance. Muslims make up 19.5% of Uttar Pradeshs population and until the last general election, they used to play a dominant role in about 30-odd constituencies where they accounted for 15-50% votes, primarily in the west and central regions. Political parties, barring the BJP, pampered the community by fielding more Muslim candidates every election. The consolidation of Hindus under the BJP and vertical division in their votes between the SP and the BSP reduced their influence in the last Lok Sabha elections . The BJP and its ally, Apna Dal, comfortably won 73 of the 80 Lok Sabha seats in UP, which including the ones where Muslims made up decisive numbers like Moradabad (41.12%), Rampur (50.57%) and Saharanpur (41.95%). Mohammed Akeel, a student in Kaiserganj, said: We have always been a vote bank. But today we feel our support is no more indispensable. Not only were the three non-BJP parties SP, BSP and Congress decimated, winning just seven out of the 80 seats, no Muslim could make it to the Lok Sabha as the BJP swept the state in 2014. This time around, the three secular parties have fielded fewer Muslim candidates. In all, 54 Muslim candidates contested the polls in 2014.The SP fielded 12, the BSP and the Congress 17 and 11. Another 14 Muslims contested as Independent candidates or were fielded by smaller parties. In a small consolation, they finished runners-up in 17 constituencies. The first Muslim to enter the Lok Sabha after BJPs 2014 resurgence was in the 2018 by-poll held in Kairana where the Opposition joined hands to defeat the saffron party and the Rashtriya Lok Dals Tabassum Hasan was elected . In 2019, 20 Muslim candidates are in the fray 10 each fielded by the Congress and SP-BSP-RLD alliance. BJP has not fielded a Muslim candidate in 2019; it didnt in 2014 either. Athar Hussain, director of Centre for Objective Research & Development says, During the last 5 years the ideology that dominated the political discourse is perceived to be spreading hatred. The challenge before the Muslims is to stop that ideology rather than political empowerment. The Ayodhya shadow A Muslim resident of Bahraich, who didnt want to be identified, said, It is understandable that the politics of the state has taken such a queer turn that even the non-BJP parties do not wish to be publicly identified with Muslims as they fear it might alienate the Hindus. Why? Arent we getting isolated in the process? Its the SP-BSP alliance representing different castes that gives us some hope, or else, the days of our social exclusion are not far away, he added. As you travel through the Muslim belt of the state comprising Barabanki, Bahraich, Gonda, Kaiserganj, Shrawasti and Faizabad districts, in the vicinity of Ayodhya the epicentre of the Ram Janmbhumi-Babri Mosque conflict one can sense the disquiet. It is more pronounced in the political arena but is deepening at the social level, too. Most of them have moved away from the contentious Ayodhya issue that had first polarised society on communal lines. The common refrain is that they would abide by a court verdict although hardline Hindus are adamant that they want a temple to Lord Ram built at the disputed site they believe marks the birthplace of the warrior-god . What one gets to hear in Aligarh-Agra and Meerut-Moradabad infamous for the politics of polarisation is also heard in Varanasi or Azamgarh. Mufti Zulfiqar Ali of Muzaffarnagar said, In last five years, Muslims had no voice or say on any matter. Their complete marginalisation in every sphere is the only reason behind their determination to defeat BJP. He says it was unfortunate that the Congress did not join the SP-BSP-RLD alliance. It may not have won many seats but would have strengthened the alliance in the fight against the BJP. Bhadarsa, on the Faizabad-Prayagraj road, is about 30 km from the disputed structure in Ayodhya. Every time the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and its associates campaign for a Ram temple in Ayodhya, truckloads of policemen reach the town, which was witness to communal riots in June 2012 over a Durga puja procession. Two persons were killed, several were injured and shops razed. The provocation was the gulal (coloured powder) that had fallen on the Nawab Khan mosque in the town. Election-time divide For years, all mosques were covered with a tarpaulin. But soon the 30,000-odd population had learnt from their past mistakes. Now the de-facto chairman of the nagar panchayat, Rashid, leads the processions. We dont cover the mosque as Muslims lead the procession. Hindus are also careful. Election time divides them. Polarisation is not so acute as it was in 2014 when some Yadavs also supported the BJP, he said. We are supporting the alliance in a direct contest with BJP. Congress nominee Nirmal Khatri is seasoned and sophisticated but lacks support of other castes, he added. Jarwal is a town in Kaiserganj with 80%Muslim population. Though the 20%Hindus by and large voted for Narendra Modi in 2014, this time, a section is in favour of the alliance along with Muslims. Both Qamrul Hasan and Arun Kumar Yadav say the divide is only political, otherwise they are together. Yadav says, We all know who votes for whom. Muslims do tactical voting, we go to SP while Brahmins and Banias vote for the BJP. Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has tweeted a sharp rebuttal to Prime Minister Narendra Modi who accused the AAP-led government in Delhi of bringing in a new political culture of nakampanthi or non-performance. The Prime Minister had attacked the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) on Wednesday for its failure to deliver on its promises and tarnishing the image of the common people at his first rally in the national capital for the Lok Sabha election 2019. The Aam Aadmi Party boss also accused PM Modi of seeking votes over fake nationalism. But before he went on an offensive, Kejriwal first listed the four sectors where he said, his government had done a lot. We have done a lot of work (in the fields of) education, health, electricity, water. What have you (PM Modi) done in the last five years - lectures, foreign tours and jumlebaazi? Anything else? That is why you are seeking votes in the name of fake and false nationalism, Arvind Kejriwal tweeted in Hindi. The residents of Delhi had asked three questions of you. You have no answers to those, Kejriwal added as he tagged Modis Thursday tweet in which he said Delhi government brought in a model of nakampanthi and cheated the people of the city. The Delhi Chief Minister was referring to his questions on Wednesday seeking answers to the Prime Minister. Why didnt the BJP pass an ordinance and stop sealing in Delhi? In 2014, PM Narendra Modi promised full statehood for Delhi. Why did the BJP not grant full statehood? Why is Imran Khan endorsing Narendra Modi? Kejriwal had asked. The Kejriwal-led government in Delhi has been on a warpath with the Centre over several issues, including control over the Centres administration and demand for the statehood, which has become the AAPs main plank during the Lok Sabha election 2019. Telangana chief minister K Chandrashekar Rao has, over the last fortnight, reached out to the Congress, opening a back-channel to explore the possibility of the two parties working together in the event of a hung Parliament once the Lok Sabha election results are announced, according to two people familiar with the matter. Late last month, and approximately 10 days after Telangana voted on April 11, a parliamentarian from Raos Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) met a senior Congress functionary to set the ball rolling. The meeting was confirmed to HT by leaders from both parties who asked not to be named. Although the Congress and the TRS are far from being allies, it was an exploratory meeting, said the TRS MP. At the meeting, the TRS, which was initially exploring the formation of a non-Congress, non-Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) third front, indicated that it was now open to possibilities with the Congress, he added. This was after internal feedback that any coalition at the Centre in which a national party did not participate would be extremely vulnerable, and could fail the way the United Front government did in 1996. Though the Congress has been meeting with leaders of various parties both from within the formal United Progressive Alliance and outside it over the last year to construct an alternative to the Narendra Modi government, the TRS has not been a part of the effort. Interestingly, the apparent first step between the two sides comes at a time when Andhra Pradesh chief minister N Chandrababu Naidu has ruled himself out of the race for the prime ministers post if the Opposition numbers trump the National Democratic Alliances (NDA). Naidu and KCR as the Telangana CM is called are arch-rivals in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, which were both one state until the creation of Telangana in 2014. YS Jaganmohan Reddy, the leader of the YSR Congress, is also mounting a spirited challenge against Naidus Telugu Desam Party in Andhra Pradesh. There have also been reports of back-channel talks between KCR and Jagan Reddy. Naidus ruling himself out of the PMs race may ease things in case post-poll arithmetic requires Reddy backing the Opposition alliance. Andhra Pradesh sends 25 members to the Lok Sabha and Telangana 17. KCR, who swept the assembly elections in the state last year, is expected to reap a rich haul in the Lok Sabha polls as is Reddy. Twenty-one opposition parties, including the Samajwadi Party-Bahujan Samaj Party-Rashtriya Lok Dal alliance in Uttar Pradesh and the Trinamool Congress in West Bengal, are expected to meet in New Delhi between the last day of polling on May 19 and when the results are announced on May 23 to work out the modalities of an alternative front. There has been speculation about KCRs feelers to the Congress ever since he called their alliance partner in Karnataka, chief minister HD Kumaraswamy of the Janata Dal (Secular), earlier this week. A JD(S) official, however, said the CM was not keen on being a go-between. While the Congress has indicated that it is open to all alliances to keep the BJP out of power, a second senior Congress leader said there was a trust deficit between the two parties. He also said that there has been no formal contact between the top leadership of both parties. Political scientist Neera Chandhoke said KCRs own non-Congress, non-BJP front wont work. Till now , it looks like they were joining the BJP. But others who joined the BJP didnt fare too well, whether it is Mehbooba Mufti [of the Peoples Democratic Party in Jammu and Kashmir] or Nitish Kumar [Janata Dal (United) in Bihar]. So, KCR is being wary and hedging his bets, she said. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who believes that the wave in favour of the BJP is stronger in 2019 than it was in 2014, has said he is absolutely confident about returning to power in the ongoing national elections. In an interview to Hindustan Times, PM Modi said he had been confident about his win right from the day he took oath as Prime Minister five years ago. Absolutely. From the first day. 26 May 2014, said PM Modi when asked if he was confident about a second term. But PM Modi had never made a secret of his confidence about getting a second term. During an interaction with students back in 2014, one had asked him for his advice on the things that he needed to do to become the prime minister. PM Modi had then told the student to start preparing for the 2024 elections at least till then I am safe. At their many meetings with party workers, PM Modi and BJP chief Amit Shah have underlined the question that the BJP and the NDA was going to stay in power another term but at the same time, the two leaders have cautioned party workers against being complacent. In the interview, PM Modi also countered the perception that the quality of narrative in the 2019 elections had dropped sharply. The prime minister said he had heard many speeches of veteran orators such as Atal Bihari Vajpayee and George Fernandes. Their speeches had such statements too but back then, there was only print media. Now, from a 50-minute speech, a 10-second statement is taken and played on loop 24 hours. That said, there should definitely be courtesy, PM Modi said. But the prime minister, who ends his election speeches with a reminder to people that every vote for the local BJP candidate was a vote in Modis account, stressed that this election wasnt being fought on the basis of perception, but performance. By performance, I mean the various schemes of the government of India; and the local MPs are involved in the implementation of these schemes locally at the grass-root level. To just say that in these elections, there is just a name that is working, that isnt correct. Naam bhi chal raha hai; kaam bhi chal raha hai (the name is working, sure, but so is the work), he said. Delhi, the city, is eating up its farmlands. The urban expanse of the national capital has left little land for the tillers who are faced with the proposition of either selling their land to make way for concrete buildings or wage a battle for identity and survival. The area under cultivation in Delhi has reduced by over 34% in Delhi since 2000-2001. Farmlands in Delhi lie scattered in the Yamuna catchment area, Okhla, Northwest Delhi, Najafgarh and Mehrauli blocks. Wheat, paddy and vegetables are main crops grown in these areas. Experts pointed out that this discontinuity in the farming area is one of the reasons why successive governments have not given agriculture the attention it needed. Several farmers HT talked to said it has all come down to compensation after rain and squall. Our problems dont end with occasional compensations. Heavy rain and squall anyway an occasional occurrence, what about the rest of the year? Farmers like us have only become vote banks. No party wants to take up our issues, they only want our votes, said 55-year-old Pardeep Sujan, a farmer from Najafgarhs Jharoda Kalan. Farmers, no more Under the land pooling policy notified by the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) in October 2018, 95 villages in the city, including Najafgarh, Chhawla, Dichaon Kalan, Nangli Sakrawat, Alipur, Bhalswa, Ladpur Jahangirpur and many others, were stripped of their rural character. Vijay Maal, a farmer in North West Delhis Mundka, said his small patch of farmland is now surrounded by industrial units, which have poisoned the groundwater. He said the sewage from the railway line nearby also flows into his farm, ruining months of work. His family grows wheat and vegetables. The industry owners and land grabbers are after us to sell our land for R5-6 crore. They threaten us that now we can still bargain for our land but once the land pooling policy is strictly implemented we will have to give our land at throwaway prices, Maal said. But the worst impact of this fast urbanisation is that it has stripped the farmer of its identity. Since hundreds of farmers in Delhi are not identified as cultivators, they dont get government subsidies for seeds and farming equipment. The government says we are not farmers. But when we contribute so much to the economy and sustain the supply of foodgrains and vegetables then why dont you provide us with the subsidies that we deserve? The farmers everywhere else are entitled to it, Ram said. Bordering with Haryana, villages such as Dichaon Kalan, Mitraon and Jharoda Kalan claim to produce vegetables enough to sustain the citys needs for two days. My father was a farmer and so was my grandfather. How can I just give this up? he said. In a 2008 Delhi government notification the farmers of Delhi lost their farmer status to make way for urbanisation in the city. The idea was to ease land acquisition to develop areas, which were under the farm belt. The repercussion, however, was that the farmers also lost their rights over government subsidies and other benefits. West Delhi MP and BJP candidate Parvesh Verma said the benefits of Central governments welfare schemes for farmers is not reaching the ones in Delhi since his party was not in power in the state. I have been telling people that the reasons the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) gives for not doing their work are excuses. The BJP government in the Centre has passed several incentives for farmer welfare but it does not reach the needy, Verma said. Concerns and issues Since water for irrigation is scarce and land holdings are not comparatively big, most farmers in Delhi depend on tube wells for irrigation. Inflated power bills to run tube well is one of the major concerns of the farmers, especially those who live in areas bordering Haryana, where agriculture is still the primary business for residents. Krishna Kumar Vats, 67, of Tatesar Village in North West Delhi, said unjustified increase in the fixed charges of the electricity bills for agricultural connections has made it costlier to run tube wells. Earlier we had to pay 270 for a 6kw (kilowatt) tube well connection during off-season, but now the fixed charges have been increased by almost four times. So now, we have to pay at least Rs 1,050 for a 6kw connection that too when the facility is not in use, Vats said. Hukumdev Singh, a resident of Garhi Randala Village, said there are several months when tube wells are not in use but farmers have to still pay hefty bills because of the revision in fixed charges. We are paying extra money for not using the facility. This is bizarre. The government should know that it is not easy for farmers to shell out over Rs 700 every month. We do not get salaries. Instead, we depend on our crops, which is in bad shape these days, said Singh, 60. AAP candidate from North West Delhi, Gugan Singh, who calls himself a rural leader, said he will work for farmer welfare, if the constituency sends him to parliament as its representative. I will work for the welfare of the farmers and try my level best to address their problems. I will work on the farmers issues such as providing them ownership rights of the land they were given on lease. The party (AAP) will also work on land acquisition related problems of the farmers, he said. Villagers demand that the political representatives must address their two key issues getting them proper status of farmers and chakbandi (consolidation of fragmented revenue estates). Chakbandi has not been done since 1952. Now, we undertake farming on our own expenses and pay heavy electricity bills. This election, we will vote for the one who promises to address these issues, Vats added. The shrinking farm belt Data shows that between 2001 and 2011, Delhis rural population has more than halvedfrom 9.45 lakh to 4.20 lakh. The Economic Survey of Delhi 2017-18 highlights that between 2000 and 2016, the farmlands under cultivation decreased from 52,816 to 34,750 hectares. The report stated that the main reasons for falling agricultural activity in Delhi fast urbanisation and shift in occupational pattern. In 2011, just 1.31% of Delhis workforce was engaged in farming. Diwan Singh from a citizens group Natural Heritage First, said for a city with as polluted air as Delhi agricultural growth is crucial to maintain ecological balance. Delhi has no water bodies around it so the pollution levels will remain trapped unless there is proper greening. The more you expand the city the more it will trap harmful gases. You need agricultural lands around the city, Singh said. Promises unfulfilled Though the Delhi government had promised 105 subsidy, per kW/month on fixed charges under agriculture electricity connections, farmers say that the benefit is yet to reach them. Delhi power minister Satyendar Jain had announced that the subsidy will be applied from April 2018, and the government will pay back the money the farmers had to pay as fixed electricity charges since then. The AAP government introduced the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for farmers, based on the report of the MS Swaminathan Commission. The 2006 recommendations proposed that the farmers get 50% more than the weighted cost of production. The BJP-led central government takes credit for its new direct income support scheme, where farmers, who own up to 2 hectares (5 acres) of land, will be given a direct income support 2,000 every four months a year, which equals to 6,000. The catch, however, is that the majority of the city farmers do not own the required size of the land to claim benefits under the scheme. I dont know when this benefit will reach us. As of now, these seem as hollow promises, Harbinder Singh Chauhan, a farmer from Khera Village said. Rishi Pal Ambawat, national president Bharathiya Kisan Union (Arajnaitik), said , The farmers in Delhi are yet to receive the MSP as per the recommendations of the Swaminathan commission. The governments should not make promises only but also fulfil them, he said. The Delhi government has set a budgetary allocation of 100 crores for paying MSP to farmers in this years budget. Government officials said that the disbursement of the funds will begin as soon as the model code of conduct is over. Mahavir Lal, general secretary of Kisan Saathi Union, said, The situation in Delhi is different because here we dont qualify as farmers. Schemes by the Union government, including the minimum income promise, means nothing to the farmers here. A former chief minister, a turncoat and a rebel scion makes for an exciting triangular contest for the Sonepat Parliamentary constituency. It may look like a change of political turf for two-time chief minister, Bhupinder Singh Hooda, a four time MP from the adjacent Rohtak constituency in elections 2019. But he looks at home in a constituency encompassing both Deswali and Bangar regions of the state. Once Hoodas underling, sitting MP Ramesh Kaushik, had switched sides to quit Congress and contest as a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate in 2014. He was reluctant to contest this time but showed a renewed interest after Balakot air strikes. See: LIVE coverage Lok Sabha Elections 2019 The third contestant, Jannayak Janta Party (JJP) leader, Digvijay Chautalas claim to fame has been his very respectable debut loss in Jind byelection where he unexpectedly finished runners up behind the winning BJP candidate. And he has decided to enter an uncharted territory, hoping to do a la Jind. The electoral contest On paper, the two Jat candidates Hooda and Chautala fight for a share of over 6.70 lakh Jat votes while Kaushik, a Brahmin, can hope to corner a major share of about 1.50 lakh Brahmin votes. However, the actual contest may turn out to be totally different. Five out of the nine assembly segments in this constituency are held by Hooda loyalists, an important factor in determining the pull of the candidate. The JJP candidate, Digvijay Chautala, is heavily banking on the three assembly segments falling in Jind district. Chautala did well, finishing runners up in the recent Jind byelection. The BJP candidate relies heavily on the urban electorate in Sonepat and Jind assembly segments to prop up his prospects. Issues at hand Sitting BJP MP, Ramesh Kaushik frequently talked about the air strikes, Prime Minister Narendra Modis success in getting Wing Commander Abhinandan back from Pakistan and the need to have a strong Centre, during poll canvassing. While Modi is immersed in desh bhakti, the Congress is striking a discordant note. For the sake of our country, Prime Minister, Narendra Modi is the most suitable for the job, he tells a motley crew at Mukinpur village in Rai assembly segment. Sonepat Lok Sabha seat BJP candidate Ramesh Kaushik seen during an election campaign, at a village in Rai, Haryana, on Saturday, May 4, 2019. (Keshav Singh / HT Photo ) Kaushik, who was a part of the Congress government from 2005 to 2009 under Hooda and served as chief parliamentary secretary, was quick to credit the BJP government for its efforts to increase the income of farmers, introducing Ayushman Bharat health insurance scheme and the Ujjawala scheme. Then he launches a subtle attack on his former boss and brands him an outsider. People of Sonepat need someone from Sonepat, not from Rohtak. Hooda is an outsider and people of Sonepat never vote for outsiders, the BJP candidate said at Chauhan Joshi village. JJPs Digvijay, who aggressively campaigned in Jind district, too attacks the former chief minister, though on a different a ground. Remember if Hooda wins here, the chaudhar (authority) will go to Rohtak and if I triumph, then it will come to Jind. Dushyant has already announced that Jind will be made the capital of Haryana the day we come to power. You will be the master of your fate.Hooda aapke kya kaam aayega, woh toh Rohtak walon ka hai. Dushyant aapke kaam aayega, Digvijay told a gathering of Sikhs at Malikpur village in Safidon assembly segment. When Hooda sahib has to ultimately contest the assembly election from Kiloim why is he taking the Sonepat Lok Sabha route. He just wants to show his strength. Actually, he is the one responsible for the backwardness of Sonepat and Jind districts, he told the gathering at Nimanabad. Hooda, who too is concentrating on Jind district lately, said that BJP regimes, both at the Centre and in Haryana, had left the peasantry in agony. Taking credit for the valour of the defence forces is all they can speak about now, he said. The former chief minister says that the JJP, like the INLD, will fold up after May 23 when the poll results will be out. Also Read | Election Results 2019 Live Updates Caste aspect The JJP nominee is dismissive about the possibility of caste equations deciding the outcome of polls. I dont think that caste polarisation is a factor here. See, I got 18,000 votes in Jind town during the Jind bypoll which proves that I got urban votes. Had there been caste polarisation, I would have won the bypoll merely on the strength of over 50,000 Jat votes, says Digvijay Chautala. BJPs Ramesh Kaushik says that those who do not have any accomplishments try to play caste politics. People can see through their designs. Haryana was burnt over Jat reservation and the issue was politicised. The BJP government at the Centre gave 10% reservation on economic basis to every caste without anyone batting an eyelid. We are not using it for electoral gains, Kaushik says. Hooda feels that since he had worked for the progress of each section of the society, the polarisation plank of the BJP would not work. The BJP has nothing to list as positives. So let them play the caste games, he says. Also Read | Lok Sabha 2019 constituency: Sonipat in Haryana is Hooda citadel SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Delhis backbone being broken: Rahul Gandhi I saw AAP posters hum kaam karte hain, wo kaam rokte hain. You didnt say this earlier when you contested elections. You are in power, small traders - Delhis backbone being broken, sealing underway and you say cant do anything? Congress had stopped this in Parliament, says Rahul Gandhi. R Gandhi: I saw AAP posters 'hum kaam karte hain, wo kaam rokte hain'. You didn't say this earlier when you contested elections. You are in power, small traders - Delhi's backbone being broken, sealing underway&you say can't do anything? Congress had stopped this in Parliament. https://t.co/yIwfks4ISn ANI (@ANI) May 9, 2019 AAP cannot defeat Narendra Modi, only Congress can: Rahul Gandhi AAP cannot defeat Narendra Modi, only Congress can: Rahul Gandhi. You wont hear Chowkidar chor hai in AAP office: Rahul Gandhi Rahul Gandhi in Delhi: In last elections AAPs slogan in Delhi was Dilli mein CM Kejriwal ji, Hindustan mein PM Narendra Modi ji. They would opened gates for Narendra Modi. Congress and I have fought Narendra Modi ji across the country. You wont hear Chowkidar chor hai in AAP office. Rahul Gandhi in Delhi: In last elections AAP's slogan in Delhi was 'Dilli mein CM Kejriwal ji, Hindustan mein PM Narendra Modi ji'. They'd opened gates for Narendra Modi. Congress&I have fought Narendra Modi ji across the country. You won't hear 'Chowkidar chor hai' in AAP office pic.twitter.com/YZHy5QwA60 ANI (@ANI) May 9, 2019 Sealing in Delhi and GST implemented by PM Modi to finish small shopkeepers: Rahul Gandhi Congress President Rahul Gandhi in Delhi: Why was sealing in Delhi and GST implemented? It was a strategy by Narendra Modi to finish the small shopkeepers, small businessmen and traders. Congress President Rahul Gandhi in Delhi: Why was sealing in Delhi and GST implemented? It was a strategy by Narendra Modi to finish the small shopkeepers, small businessmen and traders. pic.twitter.com/SO7uOKaB2t ANI (@ANI) May 9, 2019 Amit Shah today visited Garhwa Ghat Ashram in Varanasi Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) President Amit Shah today visited Garhwa Ghat Ashram in Varanasi. Time to bid goodbye to PM Modi: Rahul Gandhi Time to bid goodbye to PM Modi: Rahul Gandhi at poll rally in Madhya Pradesh Mayawati is now seeking votes for people who had called Baba Saheb Ambedkar a land mafia: PM Modi PM Narendra Modi in Jaunpur: Behen Ji will understand the game that has been played to keep her outside Uttar Pradesh only after May 23. Behen Ji is now seeking votes for the people who had called Baba Saheb Ambedkar a land mafia and insulted him at every step. PM Narendra Modi in Jaunpur: Behen Ji will understand the game that has been played to keep her outside Uttar Pradesh only after May 23. Behen Ji is now seeking votes for the people who had called Baba Saheb Ambedkar a land mafia and insulted him at every step. pic.twitter.com/50oO3dmnqL ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) May 9, 2019 Modi cant talk about his govts performance, so talks about past: Rahul Gandhi. Modi cant talk about his governments performance, so talks about past: Rahul Gandhi. Come and see the vibrancy here in Jaunpur. Its BJP all the way: PM Modi Come and see the vibrancy here in Jaunpur. Its BJP all the way: PM Modi Azamgarh had become synonymous with terrorism before 2014, not so any longer: PM Modi Azamgarh had become synonymous with terrorism before 2014, not so any longer: PM Modi Mahagathbandhan can lead only to anarchy and instability: PM Modi The mahagathbandhan can lead only to anarchy and instability: PM Modi at rally in Azamgarh. Our government prioritised national interest: PM Modi in Azamgarh PM Modi in Azamgarh: How were bomb blasts brought under control in all cities after 2014? How have terror activities been restricted only to Jammu and Kashmir now? It is because our government prioritised national interest. We entered Pakistan and attacked terrorists. PM Modi in Azamgarh: How were bomb blasts brought under control in all cities after 2014? How have terror activities been restricted only to J&K now? It is because our govt prioritised national interest. We entered Pakistan and attacked terrorists. pic.twitter.com/ONk4g78iY0 ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) May 9, 2019 There will be new PMs every day of the week if Mahagathbandhan is elected: Amit Shah BJP President Amit Shah says, by the time it is Sunday, the nation will collapse. Rajiv Gandhis death was unfortunate, but we can speak on Bofors and Bhopal tragedy: Defence Min Sitharaman Defence Minister Sitharaman says, everyone should respect the former PM but shall be allowed to question the scandals that surfaced during his tenure. Sarwan Singh Channy, grandson of Giani Zail Singh, joins BJP A former 1982-batch Punjab-cadre IAS officer who retired recently, former CIC of State Information Commission joins Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Rahul addresses rally in Sirsa, Haryana and steps up attack on PM on Rafale deal PM Modi has failed the youth of Sirsa. Rafale jets could have been built if there was a HAL factory here: Rahul In 1971, Atalji united the opposition and rallied behind then PM Indira Gandhi during the war: Union minister Gadkari Gadkari addresses the media and says developmental projects are progressing at faster rate. Flyovers have been built to connect Baghpat to Meerut and Delhi. Roads are being built by the Centre to connect lower economic zones of Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and UP, says Union minister Gadkari. Trinamool has made mafia part of government, says Modi Modi says, Purulia has a lot of resources. But the governments here till date have created coal mafia, Trinamool has, infact, made the mafia a part of its government. He adds, those who fought the mafia and laid their lives for democracy, their sacrifice wont go in vain. People have to think twice before voting here PM Modi: Gurudev Rabindranath wanted an India which was unafraid but first the Congress and then the Communists have ripped to pieces his teachings. Modi adds, people have to think twice before voting here. Political workers are murdered for campaigning. People are afraid in West Bengal: PM Modi PM Modi adds, If you (Mamata Banerjee) had shown the courage of slapping those people who looted people in the name of chitfund, you wouldnt have been so afraid. Didi got your vote in the name of maa, maati and maanush. But what is the situation today in West Bengal? The mother is worried about the security of her children, the soil has become red with the blood of democracy-loving innocent people and people are afraid. Didis slap will be a blessing for me: PM Modi at Purulia Speaking at an election rally in West Bengals Purulia, PM Modi referred to CM Mamata Banerjees purported remark about slapping him. Modi said, I call her didi and respect her, her slap will become a blessing for me. I am ready to be slapped. PM Narendra Modi to address rally in Purulia, West Bengal Sitting MP from Trinamool Congress Mriganko Mahato will contest against BJPs Jyotirmay Mahato. Purulia votes on Phase VI of Lok Sabha Elections 2019. Didi has stalled PM Kisan Yojana schemes in Bengal: PM Modi PM reiterates his promise to award pensions to small-scale farmers and MSME traders. He says Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee stalling health care initiatives of the Central Government. PM Modi says Bengal CM has mamata for foreign actors but not for armed forces. PM Narendra Modi attacks Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee for not celebrating surgical strike day. PM Modi: Didi supporting Dadagiri and tolabaazi across Bengal PM Modi speaks to the crowd in Bangla, attacks Bengal CM for supporting local coal mafia in Bankura. He says, he is not worried about Bengal CMs empty threats. PM Modi says she should be worried about the people who are angered because of the chit fund scam. Didi feels proud to call Imran Khan our nations PM: PM Modi PM Narendra Modi attacks Bengal CM, says she was too proud to sit with him to discuss relief measures with the PMO and Army officials in the aftermath of Cyclone Fani. PM Modi says, Didi has forgotten Ma, Maati, Manush. PM Narendra Modi says Mamata Banerjee has insulted the Constitution of India. He said he is not afraid of insults and has gotten used to it. PM Narendra Modi starts his address. PM Narendra Modi begins his speech by commemorating the 158th birth anniversary of Nobel Laureate Rabindranath Tagore. PM Narendra Modi to address the public in Bankura, West Bengal shortly. PM Modi is back in Bengal CM Mamata Banerjees turf where he will canvass for BJP candidate Amiya Patra. TMC has changed its contestant in Bankura, replacing actor-turned-politician Moon Moon Sen with Subrata Mukherjee. Union Minister Nitin Gadkari has said that the government will stop Indias share of water flowing into Pakistan, if the neighbouring country does not stop supporting terror groups. We have already started a study into the matter. The water that will be stopped from flowing into Pakistan will be given to Punjab, Haryana and Rajasthan, Union minister for road transport and highways, shipping and water resources said at a press conference in Amritsar on Wednesday. The minister said that the basis of the water treaty between the two Asian neighbours was peaceful relations and friendship that had completely vanished. So we are not bound to follow this treaty, Gadkari said. On a campaign tour in Punjab, which goes to polls in the last phase of voting on May 19, Nitin Gadkari also took potshots at the Nehru-Gandhi clan saying they had been making tall promises on eradication of poverty, but never delivered. For 72 years since the country attained Independence, Congress leaders have been making such promises, but they all failed to deliver, Gadkari said while campaigning for Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) candidate from Fatehgarh Sahib, Darbara Singh Guru. When Jawaharlal Nehru became the first prime minister, he promised to eradicate poverty. The same promise was made by his daughter Indira Gandhi, the grandmother of current Congress president Rahul Gandhi, he said. The legacy followed and Indira Gandhis son, Rajiv Gandhi, who also became PM, promised to eradicate poverty. After that Rajivs wife Sonia Gandhi made Manmohan Singh the PM who also made a similar promise, he said. Now, Rahul Gandhi is also promising that he will free the people of the country from poverty. He is promising to do what his ancestors could not. Does that mean nothing was done by all of them in 55 years of the Congress rule? asks Gadkari. Also Read | Nehru took your homework: Priyanka Gandhi jibes PM Modi at Delhi roadshow He also alleged that the wrong policies of the previous Congress governments were responsible for corruption. Stating that the entire nation is now well-connected through a network of highways, he promised the local residents that the long-pending demand of an elevated road in Khanna will be met and the Khanna-Samrala road will be repaired, if the BJP is voted to power again. For complete coverage of Lok Sabha Elections 2019, click here Delhi chief minister and the Aam Aadmi Partys (AAP) national convener Arvind Kejriwal on Wednesday said he would support Congress president Rahul Gandhi as prime ministerial candidate if he supported full statehood for the national capital. In an interview with TV channel News18 India, Kejriwal said, Whichever party forms the next government, excluding the BJP, will have AAPs support only if it supports AAP on the issue of full statehood for Delhi. Asked specifically about Rahul Gandhi, Kejriwal said, If he is considered as a prime ministerial candidate, then I will support him only on the condition that he supports full statehood for Delhi. Under the same condition, Kejriwal said he would endorse West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee for the prime ministers post as well. AAP is too focussed in Delhi. These are national elections and they should think beyond just Delhi. Getting statehood for Delhi is not as easy as AAP thinks it is, said P C Chacko, All India Congress Committee Delhi in-charge. Priyanka wasting her time Earlier, addressing a press conference, Kejriwal said Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, the Congress general secretary in-charge of eastern Uttar Pradesh, was wasting her time campaigning in Delhi. She [Priyanka] is wasting her time in the national capital, why doesnt she campaign in Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh? She is doing rallies in Uttar Pradesh against SP-BSP, shes doing rallies in Delhi against AAP. Both the brother [Rahul Gandhi] and sister are not going to those places where there is direct fight with the BJP, Kejriwal said. On Wednesday, Priyanka led two road shows in the city for the partys North East Delhi constituency candidate and Delhi Congress chief Sheila Dikshit, and South Delhi seat candidate Vijender Singh. Responding to this, Chacko pointed to AAPs efforts to ally with the Congress earlier. If the AAP thinks that the Congress is not strong enough why did they come for an alliance with us in the capital, Chacko said. On April 25, after a potential alliance between AAP and the Congress failed to materialise, Kejriwal had criticised the Congress president saying, If the Modi-Shah duo returns to power, only Rahul Gandhi will be responsible. Attacks BJP on illegal colonies In the press conference, Kejriwal also alleged that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) was planning to demolish unauthorised colonies and allot the lands to private builders. I have learnt through government officials that the BJP government has drafted a plan to raze all unauthorised colonies in Delhi and handing over the land to private builders. Luxurious apartments will be built in the place of these unauthorised colonies And those apartments will never be allotted to the poor people who live in those colonies, he said. The BJP dismissed the allegation. Kejriwal has done no work (and) so is now deceiving people with lies and misinformation. It is a figment of his imagination, said Vijender Gupta, BJP leader of opposition in the Delhi assembly. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath Wednesday alleged that the Congress doesnt deserve to get votes as it is more concerned about Pakistan than India. Addressing a poll rally here to canvass for the BJPs Guna Lok Sabha seat candidate K P Yadav, Adityanath alleged that not only Congress president Rahul Gandhi, but his sister and the partys general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra too speaks lies. Rahul Gandhi does not deserve votes as he is more concerned about Pakistan. If India is in trouble, he doesnt think about the people, the BJP leader told an election meeting here. He alleged that the Congress president sensed defeat in Amethi which is why he contested the polls also from Wayanad in Kerala. Referring to a viral video, purportedly showing children using abusive language in front of Priyanka Gandhi, Adityanath alleged, She was teaching abuses to children after people refused to vote for the Congress. This is not a good conduct on the part of a woman. Priyanka Gandhi Vadra had earlier clarified that she had stopped children from raising wrong slogans and asked them to raise good slogans. Adityanath also claimed that what the Narendra Modi government achieved in the last five years, the Congress could not do in 50 years. We decided this would be more manageable as a web series, partially because then we could raise the money in increments and not have to shoot it all at once, McCullough said. This may have been an incredibly expensive gamble on our part. Hopefully Im able to go out to LA at some point in the next six months and talk to some people (about picking up The Haven as a TV series). But its so hard to know whose eye its going to catch and whether or not youre walking down the right path. What you want people realize is that you can write a show about domestic violence and not have it be really depressing. Or man-hating. Congress president Rahul Gandhis promise of Nyay has found an unlikely sceptic Raghuvansh Prasad Singh, the Rashtriya Janata Dal veteran and former rural development minister who delivered the United Progressive Alliances flagship rural job scheme. Under Nyay, or Nyuntam Aay Yojana, Gandhi has promised Rs 72,000 per year to 20% of the poorest of poor families having an income of less than Rs 12,000 per month, if a Congress-led alliance comes to power after the ongoing general elections. Singh, the architect of the UPAs Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), said that money without work which is what Nyay promises -- defies the basic principles of economics. The MGNREGA, in contrast, guarantees 100 days of wage-employment in a financial year to a rural household whose adult members volunteer to do unskilled manual work. Money or other benefits should be given only in return for some work, Singh said. The basic principle of economics says you get paid for some job. The Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) has an alliance with the Congress and three other parties in Bihar. Known for speaking his mind, even to RJD boss Lalu Prasad, Singh said the rural job scheme was better than Nyay and, if he got another chance in power, he would press for certain amendments to existing MGNREGA provisions. Labourers working on private farm land should also be entitled to rural employment guarantee benefits. I proposed this when I was minister, but it got stuck with the Planning Commission, he said. Given another opportunity in power, I will ensure it sees the light of day. In Delhis corridors of power, Singh is known as the right man in the wrong party -- a phrase that was often used for former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. During the UPA regime, Singhs understanding of rural issues had earned him many admirers, including then Congress chief Sonia Gandhi. So much so, that she wanted him to continue as rural development minister despite the RJD not being a pre-poll ally in the 2009 Lok Sabha elections. The list of ministers portfolios sent to then President Pratibha Patil in 2009 did not include the rural development ministry, which was kept vacant while the Congress was negotiating Singhs entry into UPA-II with Lalu Prasad. The problem: RJD had four MPs but only one could be a minister. And that had to be the partys chief Lalu Prasad. I could not have left the party just to become member of parliament or a minister, Singh said. Singh is the RJD candidate from Vaishali this time, and is supported by the grand alliance of Opposition parties in Bihar. Yadav and Muslims, who number 400,000 in this constituency, form the main support base of the RJD. Singh is pitted against former BJP legislator Veena Devi, whose husband is a Janata Dal (United) legislator and a local strongman. Veena Devi is the Lok Janshakti Party (LJP) candidate. Singh is locked in a tight battle with the LJP candidate for upper-caste votes, which will eventually decide whether the socialist veteran returns to parliament or not. There are about 400,000 Rajput and Bhumihar two major upper castes of Bihar voters in Vaishali. Agriculture minister and senior BJP leader Radha Mohan Singh claimed the upper castes would remain with the BJP.Upper-caste voters will not chose a candidate from the RJD, he claimed. There is a long history of rivalry between the upper castes and the RJD. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Back in Bengal on the campaign trail, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday launched a scathing attack at chief minister Mamata Banerjee for her governance record. But before he got down to critiquing her stint as a two-time chief minister, PM Modi also hurled a dart at Banerjee who had told a rally that she felt like giving him a slap of democracy. I have been told that Didi said she wanted to slap Modi. Mamata Didi, I call you Didi and will continue to keep doing so. Your slap will be a blessing for me, PM Modi said at an election rally in Bengals Purulia. Exclusive | This election will be Indias turning point: PM Modi But, PM Modi said, Mamata Banerjee wouldnt have had to worry so much about losing if she had showed the courage to slap her colleagues who cheated the poor in the chit fund scam. If you had slapped the Tolabaz (extortionists), then the TTT or Trinamool Tolabazi Tax tag wouldnt have stained your record, he said. Watch: INTERVIEW I PM Narendra Modi I No record of surgical strikes in UPA era The BJP and Mamata Banerjees Trinamool Congress has been locked in a no-holds-barred contest for 17 of Bengals 42 Lok Sabha seats that are to vote on May 12 and 19. The BJP had lined up six rallies by PM Modi over the next 10 days and deployed its three key strategists Himanta Biswa Sarma, Sunil Deodhar and Arvind Menon who have a track record of scripting victories for the party. PM Modi and the BJPs focus on Bengal also stems from the partys performance in the March panchayat elections where the party had emerged as a close second. BJP leaders have also pointed out to the steady increase in the partys vote share over the last decade or so, up from a mere 4 per cent in 2011 assembly elections to 10 per cent in 2016 and 17 per cent in 2014. The drought in 21,000 villages across Maharashtra is getting worse as dams dry up and more people are forced to depend on tankers for drinking water. According to the state water resource department, dams in Marathwada, one of the worst-hit regions, have just 4.92% water left. Across the state, only 17.04% water is left in dams. Last year, around the same time, the states dams had 29.55% water, while Marathwada had 25.54% water. Of nine major reservoirs in the state, eight have no water stock (these dams only have dead water stock, which is water that cannot be used). One of the eight dams is Jayakwadi, the states biggest water reservoir. The number of villages getting water through tankers has gone up to 4,054 from 3,699 villages in just 12 days. On Wednesday, chief minister Devendra Fadnavis took stock of the drought situation in two districts, Aurangabad and Jalna, and asked officials to come up with drought mitigation measures within 48 hours. The officers concerned will take note of complaints and resolve the issue at the earliest. They will submit a report to me directly, Fadnavis said. Between October and November 2018, the state government declared drought in more than half the villages in 151 tehsils and 318 revenue circles, making them eligible for special relief packages and revenue benefits. The governments statistics showed apart from Marathwada, 12 water reservoirs in different regions Amravati (Khadakpurna and Pentakli dams), Nagpur (Gosikhurd and Dina dams), Nashik (Bham, Tisgaon, Bhavali and Punegaon dams), Pune (Ghod, Pimpalgaon, JogeTemghar and Bhima dams) have also gone dry, and have created acute water shortage in the adjoining areas. To deal with the situation, the state has deployed 5,174 water tankers to provide drinking water to the affected areas. Of these, 2,756 tankers a day provide drinking water to eight districts of Marathwada, said a senior official from the water supply and sanitation department, requesting anonymity. As sources of water are dry up, the number of water tankers we deploy is going to rise in the coming days. Fadnavis also shared a WhatsApp number (8879734045) and asked people to send their complaints related to water tankers, cattle camps, employment guarantee schemes, compensation, crop insurance etc. He asked officials to take the decision for deploying water tankers to provide drinking water based on the population in 2018, and not the 2011 census. Across the state, 1,054 tankers have been deployed in Aurangabad, followed by Beed and Ahmednagar with 830 and 771 tankers respectively. The number of villages getting water through tankers has gone up to 4,054 from 3,699 villages in the past 12 days, the statistics shows. Meanwhile, the Centre has approved 4,717 crore for drought relief measures, of which, they have released 4,248.59 crore in two installments. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON The members of the Indian Nursing Council (INC) wrote to the Prime Ministers Office (PMO) on May 6, seeking the removal of its serving president, T Dileepkumar, who is accused in a 225-crore corruption case. The members alleged that the witnesses in the 2006 scam are INC employees, and thus, the accused has been exercising his power to hamper an independent trial. The council is the regulatory body for nurses and education pertaining to nursing in India. In February, the Patiala district court had framed charges against Dileepkumar for allegedly accepting bribe in 2006 from six nursing institutes across the country, which had failed to clear inspection. The inspection report by the health ministry-appointed executive committee is instrumental in granting a recognised qualification to a university. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) had filed a first information report (FIR) against Dileepkumar and others in 2006 for forging documents and charges of taking money for the same. It has been 13 years since the FIR was filed, but he continues to serve as the INC president, said Ramling Mali, former president of Maharashtra Nursing Council (MNC) and INC member. Mali said that the witnesses in this case are INC management staff, the inspection team members who had conducted the inspection of the six institutes in 2006 and the heads of the institutes themselves, who are accused of bribing Dileepkumar. There is a huge possibility that he uses his position and power to intimidate the witnesses in the case, Mali added. A new study has observed that girls are more often bullied than boys and are more likely to consider, plan, or attempt suicide. Bullying is significantly associated with depressive symptoms, suicidal ideation, suicide planning, and suicide attempts. We wanted to look at this link between bullying victimisation, depressive symptoms, and suicidality by gender, wrote one of the researchers, Nancy Pontes, in the study published in the Journal of Nursing Research. In general, girls are more often bullied than boys, and girls are also more likely to consider, plan or attempt suicide compared with boys, regardless of being bullied or not, although boys are more likely to die by suicide. Researchers found the effects of bullying are significantly higher in females than males on every measure of psychological distress or suicidal thoughts and actions. Bullying among boys is often physical. While many schools are cracking down on physical bullying which people can see, those actions probably are preventing and stopping bullying thats more common among males. Among females, the bullying is often the kind thats not visible. Its often relational bullying, such as excluding someone from activities and social circles or spreading rumours about them. The researcher also believes that preventing bullying should begin at a young age and parents should start teaching preschool children that bullying is unacceptable. There are parents who see it as a rite of passage. They said, Everyone gets bullied. You have to buck up. Stand up for yourself. Paediatricians and nurse practitioners should talk about the harmful effects of bullying with parents so that they can intervene early and reduce the victimisation that causes adolescents to consider suicide, so they will be able to live happier and healthier lives. Follow more stories on Facebook and Twitter SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON HBO has shared brand new pictures from the upcoming fifth episode of Game of Thrones season eight. The new photos show Daenerys Targaryens armies face against Cersei Lannisters at the gates of Kings Landing. Jon Snow and Ser Davos have finally arrived in the capital to join Daenerys fleet. They are seen with Tyrion Lannister, taking stock of the armies that they will fight against. Even the Golden Company is ready with their tall spears and golden armours, to fight for Cersei. Another picture shows Jon with Varys at a beach. It is not clear where the beach is. More pictures show Daenerys looking gloomy and glum after the death of her friend Missandei and her dragon Rhaegal in the last episode. She is seen looking out of the window with Tyrion next to her. Whats worth noticing is that she is wearing fewer braids than usual. Could it be because she no longer has Missandei to help her with it? Even fans noticed the detail. Oh my god did Dany do her own braids? She doesnt even have one person left who can braid her hair? Or she just doesnt want anyone else besides Missandei, wrote one. Its really sad to see Dany without her braids, tweeted another. I hadnt thought about Danys hair! Now theres no Missandei to style it! Reason #5893 as to why Ill miss Missandei, read a tweet. WATCH: Game of Thrones stars reveal their favorite death scene Also read: Deepika Padukone tripped on her dress at Met Gala while sipping wine in hotel lobby. Watch video One picture shows Cersei still looking smug in her balcony, wearing the same red dress that she has worn all season. There is Euron Greyjoy aboard one of his ships, holding what looks like a bag of booze. Grey Worm lost his beloved Missandei in the last episode. (Courtesy of HBO) The Golden Company is ready to fight for Cersei. (Courtesy of HBO) Jon Snow, Ser Davos and Tyrion Lannister at Kings Landing. (Courtesy of HBO) Jon Snow and Varys at Dragonstone? (Courtesy of HBO) Daenerys Targaryen looks sad and depressed. (Courtesy of HBO) Euron Greyjoy must have his eyes set on Drogon now. (Courtesy of HBO) Jon Snow and Ser Davos took the Kings Road to arrive at Kings Landing with the army. (Courtesy of HBO) Cersei Lannister has been in the same red dress all season. (Courtesy of HBO) Tyrion Lannister has heard another shocking thing? (Courtesy of HBO) The latest episode of the hit series came under fire for a sensitive dialogue between Sansa Stark and Sandor Clegane. People criticised it for justifying rape and sexual abuse for the evolution of Sansas character. Sandor tells Sansa (played by Sophie Turner) that had she left Kings Landing with him, she would not have faced villains like Petyr Littlefinger Baelish and Ramsay Bolton. To which Sansa said, Without Littlefinger and Ramsay and the rest, I would have stayed a little bird all my life, she says, using his nickname for her. Actor Jessica Chastain, who will next be seen in Turner-fronted X-Men: Dark Phoenix, took to Twitter Tuesday to call out the HBO series for crediting Sansas victimisation in order to grow. Rape is not a tool to make a character stronger. A woman doesnt need to be victimized in order to become a butterfly. The #littlebird was always a Phoenix. Her prevailing strength is solely because of her. And her alone. #GameOfThrones (sic) the actor wrote. Turner is yet to respond to the social media furore against the latest episode. The next episode will air in India on Monday at 6.30 am on Hotstar. Follow @htshowbiz for more The Trump administration on Wednesday announced new sanctions against Iran targeting this time its industrial metals sector, which is the countrys largest non-petroleum export revenue earner, and warned of further actions unless Teheran fundamentally alters its conduct. The new curbs impact Irans iron, steel, aluminium and copper sectors that account for 10% of its economy and go into effect after 90 days during which times countries and businesses are expected to wind down ongoing arrangements, or face sanctions. It remains the policy of the United States to deny Iran all paths to both a nuclear weapon and intercontinental ballistic missiles, and to counter the totality of Irans malign influence in the Middle East, President Trump said in an executive order he signed ordering the new sanctions. The order puts other nations on notice that allowing Iranian steel and other metals into your ports will no longer be tolerated, Trump said. India, which has to cut its oil purchases from Iran because of earlier and continuing US sanctions targeting the countrys energy sector, also exports iron and steel products to Iran and the new orders impact on them could not be ascertained immediately. An FAQ released by the US treasury explaining the Wednesday action said it applies to all those engaged in a significant transaction for the sale, supply, or transfer to Iran of significant goods or services used in connection with the iron, steel, aluminium, or copper sectors of Iran. The new curbs came just hours after Iran issued 60-day ultimatum that it will withdraw from some of its commitments under the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), which was signed in 2015 by Iran, Russia, China, the US and three EU states, France, Britain and Germany, if the European Union did not do more to help it deal with oil and banking sanction imposed by the US. The EU has since rejected Irans ultimatum. The United States was pulled out of the JCPOA exactly a year ago by President Trump, who called the deal fatally flawed. He went on to snap back of banking and oil sanctions, which have in force since November. Pursuing a policy of maximum pressure, his administration has since then designated Irans Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a foreign terrorist organization. And the United States deployed an aircraft carrier strike group and B-52 bombers to the region last Sunday citing troubling and escalatory indications and warnings about actions being planned by Iran. Before Pham Thanh Ngan became the first ace of the Vietnam War, 11 other pilots had claimed the same status Two U.S Air Force F-102 Delta Daggers from the 509th Fighter Interceptor Squadron were escorting an EB-66C radar-jamming aircraft over the Laotian border, about 90 miles southwest of Hanoi on Feb. 3, 1968, when flight leader Maj. A. L. Lomax got a report from his wingman, 1st Lt. Wallace Wiggins. The lieutenants aircraft was acting abnormally. Lomax took a look and was shocked to see part of a Soviet-made R-3S air-to-air missile embedded in the aft fuselage of Wiggins F-102. As the two Delta Daggers beat a hasty retreat home, Lomax spotted a pair of North Vietnamese MiG-21s behind them. He turned and fired three AIM-4 Falcon missileswithout effect. He then saw his wingmans jet engulfed in flames, likely the result of the original missile strike. Wiggins was killed in the explosion. The victorious communist pilot was Pham Thanh Ngan, who had just become the first ace of the Vietnam War. However, Ngan didnt know he was first because no fewer than 11 North Vietnamese pilots had already mistakenly or falsely claimed that status during the previous 13 months. Indeed, even Ngan had undeservedly made such a claim earlier. Since the beginning of aerial warfare, fighter pilots have sought the title of ace, bestowed on aircrews that have at least five confirmed victories. During both world wars, many aces ran up dozens, sometimes hundreds, of kills. However, with the advent of jet fightersfirst tested in 1950 during the Korean Waraerial victories became more elusive, in part because the increased speed enabled pilots to better evade the enemys fire. In the three years of the Korean War, the highest-scoring American ace, Air Force pilot Joseph McConnell, had just 16 victories, while the top enemy ace, Soviet pilot Nikolai Sutiagin, claimed 22, a total almost certainly falsified. Ironically, to justify such lofty claims, the Russians allege that the U.S. Air Force extensively falsified its loss records by underreporting the number of American planes shot down. In Vietnam, it took three-and-a-half years for Ngan to become the first true ace, an additional four and a half for the second North Vietnamese ace to emerge and eight years for the U.S. to get its first aces. The most comprehensive chronicles of North Vietnamese aces are the works of Istvan Toperczer, a Hungarian flight surgeon, who interviewed North Vietnamese pilots and pored over all available documentation. Toperczer approached the subject with a fairly even handin contrast to earlier writers. He has not been completely consistent across his books, however, with some credits going to one pilot in one volume and the same credit being attributed to another pilot in a different book, which could mean his later works reflect more complete research and are therefore more authoritative. Unfortunately, Hanoi has never published its official records on the Vietnam War, as its archivists still consider much of them classified. Toperczer clearly has been granted unprecedented access to North Vietnamese air force records, and his five monographs, with their wealth of information on the North Vietnamese air force, are the closest thing to an official Vietnamese account. But until Vietnamese records are widely available for analysis, it is unlikely we will be able to piece together the true and complete story of what happened in the skies over North Vietnam. Another way to judge the validity of North Vietnamese claims is to correlate them with the records of U.S. losses based on tail numbers and other data in a comprehensive postwar Air Force study of aerial combat in Southeast Asia, called the Red Baron Reports. All efforts to separate the wheat from the chaff in the North Vietnamese claims face the same challenge: Aerial combat can be very confusing. Studies show that the victor in a dogfight is most often the pilot who can maintain a clear picture of the three-dimensional battle space in real time. Thus, even when we have access to painstakingly reconstructed accounts, we may be looking at reports with an inadvertently false portrayal of what happened in the sky, making it difficult to authoritatively determine what actually occurred during combat. Additionally, enemy aircraft types are often confused and even judgments on what weapons caused the damage can be in error. For example, Navy ace Lt. Randall Duke Cunningham was adamant that his aircraft was brought down by a North Vietnamese SAM, a surface-to-air missile, at the end of his final mission on May 10, 1972. However, there is solid evidence to suggest that he was shot down by a North Vietnamese MiG-21 piloted by Vu Duc Hop. (Cunningham and the planes other crewman, Lt. j.g. William Driscoll, ejected into the South China Sea and were picked up by helicopter.) An analysis of currently available data leads to the conclusion that North Vietnam, which touted at least 20 aces during the war, produced just three. In comparison, the U.S. produced five acesthree Air Force, two Navy. In the American count, both men in an F-4 Phantom II fighter-bomber, the plane flown by all of the U.S. aces, got credit for a shootdown. Therefore, a two-man crew earning five kills would be counted as two aces. Four North Vietnamese pilots from the 923rd Fighter Regiment in June 1967, walk in front of their MiG-17s, aircraft that suffered heavy losses in combat. (Vietnamese News Agency) Four North Vietnamese pilots from the 923rd Fighter Regiment in June 1967, walk in front of their MiG-17s, aircraft that suffered heavy losses in combat. (Vietnamese News Agency) North Vietnam fielded Soviet-made MiG-17 fighters from the beginning and added MiG-21s in April 1966. No communist pilots became aces flying only MiG-17s. American aircrews ran up a strong 4.3-1 kill ratio against the MiG-17. In their dogfight on May 10, 1972, pilot Cunningham and radar-intercept officer Driscoll shot down three MiG-17s to become the first American aces of the war. However, one MiG-17 pilot fought those two Americans so well that day that he very nearly turned the tables on Cunningham and Driscoll, but the communist met his fate when he ran low on fuel and was forced into a doomed run for home. That day in May 1972 Air Force and Navy crews shot down seven MiG-17s and four MiG-21s. After those losses, the North Vietnamese pulled the obsolescent MiG-17s out of active combat. One of the North Vietnamese aces got his victories in 1967 and 1968 during Operation Rolling Thunder; the other two aces, during Operation Linebacker I in 1972. All of their victories occurred after the introduction of new (and highly successful) MiG-21 tactics in late August 1967. This technique, which the North Vietnamese variously labeled fast attack-deep penetration or fast attack-fast withdrawal, used ground-controlled radar to locate incoming American aircraft and position MiG-21s above and behind them, allowing those communist interceptors to dive at supersonic speed, launch missiles and make a fast escape to safety. U.S. Air Force commanders found these tactics particularly difficult to counter because they lacked good radar warning systems across inland areas, while the North Vietnamese had excellent radar coverage and room to gain favorable positioning. The new MiG-21 tactics clearly improved the performance of North Vietnamese pilots, but Hanoi exaggerated their successes. When a gun camera records a wing torn off an aircraft or a pilot ejecting, there is no doubt the attacker has a valid claim, but some 24 percent of North Vietnams claimed 134 shootdowns involved American aircraft demonstrably not lost under the claimed circumstances, and a further 19 percent were made on days when no U.S. aircraft were recorded lost over North Vietnam. An additional 17 percent were credits awarded for shooting down Ryan Firebee reconnaissance dronesrobot jet aircraft originally designed as aerial targets. Thus 60 percent of the North Vietnamese claims were invalid. Some of the invalid claims are undoubtedly innocent mistakes, but only a small percentage. If a pilot claims a kill but no aircraft was lost that day, thats difficult to forgive. Its likely some false claims were part of a deliberate strategy by the North Vietnamese government. Capt. Charles D. DeBellevue, left, and Capt. Richard S. Steve Ritchie, right, with 432nd Tactical Reconnaissance Wing commander Col. Scott C. Smith, celebrate the Aug. 28, 1972, shootdown that made Ritchie the Air Forces first ace in Vietnam. (U.S. Air Force) Capt. Charles D. DeBellevue, left, and Capt. Richard S. Steve Ritchie, right, with 432nd Tactical Reconnaissance Wing commander Col. Scott C. Smith, celebrate the Aug. 28, 1972, shootdown that made Ritchie the Air Forces first ace in Vietnam. (U.S. Air Force) Hanoi was locked in a long struggle in which a sophisticated use of propaganda and misinformation was believed (correctly, as it turned out) to be a decisive strategic weapon. One of the communist leaderships major objectives was to demoralize the American public and government by miring them in a war they would come to see as unwinnable. If American pilots who achieved astronomical kill ratios against enemy pilots in the Korean War were unable to repeat their success over North Vietnam, that would add to the bleak outlook for America that Hanoi was trying to cultivate Therefore, a good number of invalid claims apparently were engineered by Hanois propagandists to produce fictitious aces in support of their war aims. In many cases, it seems as though they were even willing to steal credits from anonymous SAM and anti-aircraft gun crews to bolster their fighter pilots claims. Meanwhile, the U.S. failed to produce any aces until the final months of American military involvement, so the ever-present images of North Vietnamese aces on the pages of newspapers throughout the communist worldand even in the media of some erstwhile U.S. allieshave been an irritant to American air power advocates to this very day. Even so, Hanois numerous incidences of demonstrably inflated claims shouldnt distract from the real success of some North Vietnamese airmen. While the average North Vietnamese pilot was arguably less skilled than his American counterpart, North Vietnam still producedunder unenviable circumstancespilots who could fly with the best that any nation could offer. Certainly, North Vietnams three confirmed aces were men of exceptional skill. The non-ace MiG-17 pilot who fought U.S. aces Cunningham and Driscoll to a standstilland probably could have defeated them had he a better mountputs the exclamation point on that judgment. The Legend of Duke Cunninghams Col. Tomb Sometimes a rumor can take on a life of its own. Such was the case with the North Vietnamese Air Forces Col. Tomb, a mythical ace with 13 victories who met his fate in the dogfight that made U.S. Navy Lt. Randall Duke Cunningham and his radar intercept officer, Lt. j.g. William Driscoll, the first American aces of the war. Over the years it has become apparent that Col. Tomb was a creation of overeager U.S. intelligence analysts. Tomb (or alternatively, Toon) is not even a Vietnamese name, a telling clue that a radio operator may have misheard the moniker. Certainly, if the Burmese-sounding Tomb/Toon had been identified by this name via intercepted radio traffic, the information would likely have been classified top secret, only adding to the mystery and rumor-mongering. The photo of a North Vietnamese MiG-21 with 13 victory stars on its nose was another misinterpretation. Communist pilots were not assigned to a single aircraft. On a given day, a pilot might be in the cockpit of any one of several planes in his unit. The stars painted on a North Vietnamese fighter reflected the shootdowns from that aircraft, not the victories of the pilot inside. Nevertheless, rumors spread among Navy aircrews of a sinister North Vietnamese double ace, a lurking boogie man who would fatally bounce the careless or unprepared. And shadowy rumors are likely where Tomb would have stayed if Cunningham and Driscoll had not entered the legend. Lt. Randall Duke Cunningham, left, and Lt. j.g. William Driscoll relax aboard aircraft carrier USS Constellation on May 10, 1972, after three shootdowns that made them acesthe Navys only aces of the Vietnam War. (U.S. Navy) Lt. Randall Duke Cunningham, left, and Lt. j.g. William Driscoll relax aboard aircraft carrier USS Constellation on May 10, 1972, after three shootdowns that made them acesthe Navys only aces of the Vietnam War. (U.S. Navy) May 10, 1972, was the first day of major strikes in Operation Linebacker IPresident Richard Nixons response to Hanois surprise large-scale invasion of South Vietnam, known as the Easter Offensiveand the single biggest day of the air war in terms of overall aircraft lost. Cunningham and Driscoll had already dispatched two MiG-17s and were headed back to USS Constellation when they met a third MiG-17 head on. Cunningham immediately went into the verticalas taught by the Navys Topgun programexpecting the enemy pilot to stay with the MiG-17s strengths and fight in the horizontal. Instead, the MiG surprised Cunningham by climbing with him. The F-4J Phantom II was a far better climber than the MiG-17, but Cunningham seemed to forget that this was a race he didnt want to win because it put his F-4 ahead of and in the gun sights of the MiG. As the Phantom began to pull away, the North Vietnamese pilot fired a burst of cannon shells. Cunningham kicked his Phantom over into a dive. Again, the North Vietnamese pilot stayed in the vertical with his American opponent. The F-4 is faster in a dive than the MiG-17, and Cunningham once again began to pull ahead into the MiGs gun sights. Predictably, the North Vietnamese pilot again opened up with his guns. Far from dominating his weaker opponent with sophisticated three-dimensional tactics, Cunningham found himself trapped in a series of vertical maneuvers the enemy pilot seemed to master. The two Americans eventually outlasted the short-ranged MiG-17, as its pilot was forced to break contact and flee for home when he ran low on fuel. But it was a hopeless action; there was no chance for the MiG to outrun the powerful American fighter. As the MiG vainly tried to escape, Cunningham launched a heat-seeking AIM-9 Sidewinder air-to-air missile up the planes tailpipe to log his and Driscolls fifth and final victory. The unusually skilled MiG pilotwhoever he wasdid not survive. Of course, anyone who could have done so well against aces Cunningham and Driscoll must have been an extraordinary pilot, and thus speculation focused on the infamous Col. Tomb. But there was a serious problem with this dramatic narrative: The enemy aircraft supposedly flown by Tomb and sporting 13 stars in the photograph was a MiG-21. Cunningham and Driscoll had shot down a MiG-17. Could an ace of Tombs standing have had his choice of mounts, depending on the tactical situation? It is possible, but there is no evidence the North Vietnamese air force ever operated that way. Only two communist pilots claimed victories in two different types of aircraft. Both of them claimed their first victory early in the war with the MiG-17, then claimed subsequent victories after transitioning to the more advanced MiG-21. There is no record of any of them ever going back to the inferior MiG-17. Why would North Vietnamese pilots risk aerial combat in MiG-17s, on the losing side of a 4.3-1 kill ratio against American fighters, when they could fly MiG-21s with better oddsa U.S. advantage of just 1.6-1? Clearly, no North Vietnamese pilot, especially one with the prestige of an ace, would have chosen a MiG-17 over a MiG-21. No North Vietnamese pilot with the name of Tomb, Toon, or anything similar, ever made a victory claim. Only one North Vietnamese pilots name was close: Pham Tuan, but he made just one claim. Some writers have attempted to correlate the legend of Tomb with existing North Vietnamese aces. Perhaps Tomb was a code name. However, the most often mentioned candidates, Nguyen Van Bay and Nguyen Van Coc, turned out to be poor possibilities, especially since both survived the war. If Tomb ever existed, North Vietnam would have celebratedand widely propagandizedhis ace status. But no such claims have ever come from Hanoi, and the veteran pilots, when asked directly, denied any knowledge of such an ace. In the end, it appears that the Col. Tomb who faced off against Cunningham and Driscoll was an unsung line pilot of no particular note. But perhaps that makes the true story even more extraordinary. A run-of-the-mill everyman aviator had the courage and skill to take his plane where no MiG-17 had gone before, and he fought to within a hair of beating the best the U.S. Navy had to offer. Whoever Tomb was that day, he proved that exceptional airmanship isnt necessarily the exclusive realm of elite aces. William A. Sayers received an Air Force commission after graduating from Texas Tech in 1981. He has masters degrees in military studies and strategic studies from Marine Corps University. He spent 28 years as a military analyst at the Defense Intelligence Agency, National Counterterrorism Center and CIA. This article was published in the June 2019 issue of Vietnam. Destroyed in the war, isolated Virginia rail junction was rebuilt in a spirit of reconciliation In JULY 1861 AND AUGUST 1862, the First and Second Battles of Manassas (or, as the Yankees dubbed it, Bull Run) were fought on the same ground, with, as former Union soldier George C. Round said, lines of battle exactly reversed. This indelibly impressed the battlefields name into the American psyche and made a unique contribution to military history. In JULY 1861 AND AUGUST 1862, the First and Second Battles of Manassas (or, as the Yankees dubbed it, Bull Run) were fought on the same ground, with, as former Union soldier George C. Round said, lines of battle exactly reversed. This indelibly impressed the battlefields name into the American psyche and made a unique contribution to military history. however, is almost wholly a post-Civil War phenomenon. Where the name Manassas originated is uncertain. Some say it derived from the name of a Jewish peddler, Manasseh, whose territory encompassed some of Northern Virginia. It was sufficiently popular in March 1850 that the Virginia legislature gave it to a branch railroad that would connect the Orange & Alexandria Railroad with the Shenandoah Valley. When the Manassas Gap Railroad was completed, in 1853, the point near the Tudor Hall farm, where the line diverged from the O&A, was named Manassas Junction. Prince William County, where Manassas Junction was established, depended on agriculture but wasnt suitable for tobacco production and never grew as wealthy as the Tidewater. Farms in the area included Liberia, a two-story Federalist style brick house constructed in 1825, home for William J. Weir and family, descendants of Robert King Carter, the original land patent holder for Northern Virginia. Liberia This Mathew Brady image of the Liberia plantation house was taken in 1862 when Union General Irvin McDowell used the house as his headquarters. President Lincoln visited McDowell at Liberia on June 19, 1862. (Courtesy of the Manassas Museum System, Manassas, Virginia) This Mathew Brady image of the Liberia plantation house was taken in 1862 when Union General Irvin McDowell used the house as his headquarters. President Lincoln visited McDowell at Liberia on June 19, 1862. (Courtesy of the Manassas Museum System, Manassas, Virginia) was roughly a mile and a half north of the train depot, on high ground a short distance west of the Centreville Road (todays Route 28). The railroad junction supported a few homes and businesses, including Belchers Hotel, which like many railroad hotels of the time offered only primitive accommodations. The walls were rushed up very much like a barn or stable, where the wind on cold nights would whistle through theintervals of the planks, which were at least a half inch apart, one disgruntled guest recalled. The building washeatedby an immense stove whose smoke all settled inside. Despite its isolation, the fact that the railroads crossed at Manassas made it a critical strategic point for both armies in the first years of the Civil War. In the spring of 1861, Union commander Brig. Gen. Irvin McDowell reasoned that occupying the junction and cutting off the Manassas Gap and O&A lines from the Virginia Central Railroad offered control of the only continuous railroad connection from Alexandria, Va., across the Potomac River from Washington, D.C., to Richmond. Troops and supplies could move from the Union depot at Alexandria to the front lines as McDowells army marched closer to the Confederate capital. The Confederate commander, Brig. Gen. P.G.T. Beauregard, recognized the importance of Manassas Junction, including the need to connect Richmond with the rich Shenandoah Valley, and in June 1861, encamped roughly 22,000 troops in a defensive alignment along Bull Run Creek, five miles northeast of Manassas Junction. The Rebel troops dug fortifications and cannon emplacements and waited for their foe. On July 16, 1861, McDowells 35,000 green troops marched west from Alexandria. It took two days for the undisciplined soldiers to straggle their way to Centreville. Union delays gave Confederate Brig. Gen. P.G.T. Beauregard time to summon 12,000 reinforcements, including Brig. Gen. Thomas J. Jackson's brigade, to Manassas Junction. The First Battle of Manassas, or Bull Run, was a Southern victory that made it clear it wouldn't be a short war. (Library of Congress) Union delays gave Confederate Brig. Gen. P.G.T. Beauregard time to summon 12,000 reinforcements, including Brig. Gen. Thomas J. Jackson's brigade, to Manassas Junction. The First Battle of Manassas, or Bull Run, was a Southern victory that made it clear it wouldn't be a short war. (Library of Congress) One of the few houses in the area to survive was Liberia. Confederate President Jefferson Davis visited just after First Manassas to confer with Beauregard and Johnston. In June 1862, President Abraham Lincoln called on McDowell there after the generals horse had fallen on him. Union troops arriving to occupy the devastated depot immediately began rebuilding the railroads and buildings. The installation became a target for the Army of Northern Virginia in August 1862 after the failed Peninsula campaign. President Lincoln ordered the formation of a new primary fighting force to be called the Army of Virginia and put it under the command of brash Maj. Gen. John Pope. Popes objective was to break the Orange and Alexandria Railroads connection with the Virginia Central Railroad at Gordonsville, 50 miles southwest of Manassas. McClellan was to return with the Army of the Potomac to join forces with Pope. Gen. Robert E. Lee, determined to strike before the Union armies established a numerical advantage, on August 25 sent Stonewall Jackson and half the Army of Northern Virginia (23,500 men) on a sweeping march from the Rappahannock River through Thoroughfare Gap around Popes right flank. In two days, Jacksons men marched 56 miles and raided the Manassas Junction depot before establishing defensive positions near the Manassas battlefield. Pope, determined to act aggressively, marched north from the Rappahannock and attempted to locate and bring his force to bear against Jackson. Pope appealed to McClellan to move quickly to join their forces, but McClellan resisted, arguing his army was needed to defend Washington. On August 29, determining not to wait for McClellan, Pope attacked Jackson along the Manassas-Sudley Road, near the abandoned Manassas Gap Railroad cut. However, the Confederates withstood the assault, with the opposing armies each suffering heavy casualties. That day was marked by indecision by top commanders on both sides, with Union Brig. Gen. Fitz John Porter defying Popes order to attack the Confederate right, where Maj. Gen. James Longstreets entire corps was forming up, and Longstreet himself pressing Lee to remain on the defensive in the absence of strong intelligence about the size of the Union force he faced. That night, Pope mistook Confederate maneuvering for the start of a retreat and ordered Brig. Gen. John Hatch to attack Jackson on the morning of August 30. Longstreet counterattacked on the Union left and forced the Federals back. That night, Pope ordered a retreat across Bull Run, leaving the Confederates in control of the battlefield. The victory led Lee to invade Maryland, leading to the Battle of Antietam on September 17. Most civilians left Manassas Junction and didnt return until after the war when destruction of properties, the elimination of slavery, and the worthlessness of Confederate currency made land cheap. Desperately in need of cash, Virginia planters sold land at fire-sale prices to Northerners, many Pennsylvanians, and either sold land or gave it to their former slaves. By purchasing land, former slaves were often able to reunite their families. Beer baron Robert Portner settled in Manassas after the Civil War. He built a luxurious estate called Annaburg and became a leading citizen of the growing city. (Men of Mark in Virginia) It may be fairly stated that the town of Manassas began on September 11, 1865, when New Yorker Sumner Fitts bought part of Block No. 1 of a town lately laid out by William S. Fewell. Fewell had inherited the land which now comprises Old Town Manassas in 1858. At wars end he became the local railroad agent, recognizing the areas growth potential. Presciently, he began to divide his land into blocks and lots, which he labeled the town of Manassas, in the Prince William county deed book. Fewell sold two lots in 1865, six entire blocks in 1866, and by May 1867, thirteen entire blocks had been sold, some running parallel on both sides of the railroad tracks. Wartime destruction had depressed land prices, and town lots were selling at $2$8 an acre ($34 to $136 in 2018 dollars) Nevertheless, by spring 1869, encouraged by the railroad, a hotel and various stores and shops had appeared, and names had been given to five streets. As Manassas expanded, it soon became known among the wealthy as a vacation/retirement destination, and attracted one of Virginias most successful businessmen, beer magnate Robert Portner. Portner came to the United States at age 16, in 1853, from Prussia. Migrating to Washington, D.C., in September 1861, he established a successful grocery store and brewery in nearby Alexandria. His business largely consisted of selling beer and groceries to Union troops. Portner earned respect when he successfully defied an order from the despotic military governor of Alexandria, Brig. Gen. John P. Slough, not to sell alcoholic beverages to the soldiers. Portners connection with Manassas began early in 1869, when Christian Mathis, a Swiss immigrant and New Jersey saloon owner/hotel operator, called on him. Mathis was in poor health, looking to retire, and had recently purchased 25 acres of the Liberia farm from Robert Carter Weir for $800. Portner met his wife, Anna, at a dinner party hosted by Mathis at his Manassas home. Mathis health declined further, and he died on his farm in October 1875. Portner purchased the 191-acre Mathis farm, for $6,000, renaming it Annaburg to honor a military academy he had attended as a youth. However, he soon realized that the farms ten-room home was insufficient for his large family. He purchased several other parcels of land, but in 1892, began construction of another mansion to replace the former Mathis home. The new Annaburg estate at the intersection of Portner Avenue and Main Street included a Colonial Revival style mansion, with neoclassical elements, containing 35 rooms on three floors and a basement. It featured three rarities: electric lights, indoor plumbing, and air conditioning based on the cooling system used in Portners brewery. The outer walls were sandstone, quarried locally, and brick. The 2,000-acre estate also contained a deer park, a lake, and a hunting lodge. Shortly after its 1894 completion, Annaburg was lauded as one of the finest estates in Virginia, and made a fine showpiece for the growing town of Manassas. Portner also purchased Liberia and established a large dairy there. The town gradually became the business center of Prince William County, and with railroad help, became the county seat in 1892. It would take more than cheap land, business expansion, and showpiece estates to ensure steady future growth in Manassas. Wars end saw the South totally prostrateits railroads, bridges, and public works completely ruined; private property largely destroyed, its political and labor systems broken, with little demand for its cotton, and widespread unemployment and hunger. Making matters worse, defeat and Reconstructions harsh rules resulted in inept Federal administration, exploitation by those looking for quick profit, and fostered a contemptuous and defiant attitude toward Northerners, which a few Southerners have even today. President Lincoln strongly supported reconciliation, but in much of the South, cooperation was lacking. Suspicion towards the South remained strong among Northerners, especially after Lincolns assassination, which many in the North thought was a Confederate plot. Into this difficult atmosphere, in 1868, stepped a former Union army lieutenant, George Carr Round, when on his way to Raleigh, N.C., he got off the train and first saw the tiny crossroads called Manassas. Sensing the potential of the nascent town, he realized that Manassas was where he might make his mark. A native of Easton, Pa., Round had grown up in Middletown, Connecticut. Enlisting in the 1st Connecticut Heavy Artillery, Company G, in May 1861, while still in college, he was soon promoted to corporal. In March 1863, Round was commissioned a second lieutenant in the Army Signal Corps. Company G saw action at the Battle of the Crater in Petersburg, Va., July 30, 1864. The unit also served on the Petersburg Express, a railroad platform car on which was mounted a 13-inch seacoast mortar, which effectively checked enfilading enemy fire. Rounds company also saw action at the siege of Fort Fisher, N.C., in mid-January 1865. Wars end found Round in Raleigh, N.C., under the command of Maj. Gen. John Schofield. Ordered to establish a signal station on the state capitol dome, Round searched in vain for a way to the top. Mistaking the dome top, in the dark, for a solid surface, he attempted to jump onto it, but instead crashed through the glass skylight. A wire netting saved him from falling 100 feet to his death. Some days later, after hearing of the wars end, using signal rockets, Round wrote the cipher-coded message, Peace on earth, good will to men, in the sky. Graduating from Columbia Law School after the war, Round headed south to visit his uncles family in Raleigh but went no farther than Manassas. This photo of Center Street in Manassas, taken in 1915 or 1916, shows the appears of horseless carriages and telephone wire. (Courtesy of the Manassas Museum System, Manassas, Virginia) This photo of Center Street in Manassas, taken in 1915 or 1916, shows the appears of horseless carriages and telephone wire. (Courtesy of the Manassas Museum System, Manassas, Virginia) By January 1, 1869, Round had opened a law practice, based on assisting loyal landowners to make claims against the Federal government for reimbursement on property stolen or destroyed by the Union Army. He also sold real estate, but education was where Round made his mark. In 1869, he was named district superintendent of schools for Prince William County. The trustees of the county school board, including Round, soon opened the Manassas Village School, for the towns white children, in the Asbury Methodist church. Private funds were used, as no public funds had yet been collected. The Peabody Fund, based in Baltimore, contributed $300 in 1869, and $300 in 1870. The remaining $694.24 required was given by donors north of the Mason-Dixon Line. For its first two years, the Village School met in Manassas Asbury Methodist Church. Sufficient funds were raised by spring 1872, to begin building a new school, designed by Round, who also supervised its construction. Completion was in July 1872, and the school was named Ruffner School No. 1, for Virginias first school superintendent, William Ruffner. The school was enlarged in 1908 to accommodate Manassas High School but overcrowding forced its closure in 1926. Rounds tireless efforts also established an agricultural school, and he strongly supported the Manassas Industrial School for Colored Youth. Round helped write the 1873 town incorporation charter, establishing a town council. He was the first town clerk and donated the land for the county courthouse. He planted dozens of shade trees throughout Manassas, and by his solicitation, he got millionaire philanthropist Andrew Carnegie to donate funds for city and school libraries in 1900. Jane "Jennie" Serepta Dean founded the Manassas Industrial Institute for Colored Youth in 1894. (The Crisis). Jane "Jennie" Serepta Dean founded the Manassas Industrial Institute for Colored Youth in 1894. (The Crisis). For a century after the Civil War, Manassas remained a segregated city. Schools, churches, clubs, and public accommodations were maintained separately for whites and blacks. Efforts to offer education to African Americans were led by Jane Jennie Serepta Dean, who went to work at age 14 as a domestic in Washington, D.C., to help her father, former slave Charles Dean, pay down his mortgage, and help her siblings pay for their education. After some years in Washington, Jennie Dean would return to Manassas to found a school, the Manassas Industrial School for Colored Youth, where black teenagers were taught carpentry, sewing, shoemaking, and metal-working skills. The school opened in 1894, and even after the 1913 death of Jennie Dean, it continued to grow, offering an academic curriculum along with trades and attracting male and female students from other communities to live in dormitories on its campus. After the 1938 closure of the Industrial School, the facilities were bought and operated by Prince William, Fairfax, and Fauquier counties as a regional high school for black students. Segregation continued even after the 1954 Supreme Court Brown v. Board of Education decision and Prince William County in 1959 built a new school for black students named Jennie Dean High and Elementary School. Prince William County integrated its public schools in 1966. The separation of the races remained the status quo in Manassas long after a 1911 event cemented reconciliation between North and South. The Manassas National Jubilee of Peace was first suggested by a Confederate veteran in a letter to the editor published in The Washington Post, in January 1911. Reading the letter, Round liked the idea, and by July, President William Howard Taft, Virginia Governor William Hodges Mann, numerous senators and congressmen, 600 veterans from both sides, the 15th U.S. Cavalry and a band from Fort Myer, Va., had agreed to participate. The festivities began on July 16. Flags and patriotic bunting engulfed the town, and a local newspaper declared, It is the duty of every citizen to decorate. The Southern Railway promoted the event for weeks, offering reduced round-trip fares. Veterans met on Henry Hill Friday, July 20. A double line of Confederate veterans, numbering 350, stood facing north, while 12 yards away a line of Union veterans, about 175, faced south. At a signal, both lines advanced, clasped hands, promised eternal friendship, and discussed events of 50 years ago. On the last day, various dignitaries, including Mann, Grand Army of the Republic commander Gen. James E. Gilman, and United Confederate Veterans chief Brig. Gen. George W. Gordon gave battlefield speeches. Academics had largely replaced farming and industrial training for the Freshman class of 1931 at the Manassas Industrial School for Colored Youth. (Courtesy of the Manassas Museum System, Manassas, Virginia) Academics had largely replaced farming and industrial training for the Freshman class of 1931 at the Manassas Industrial School for Colored Youth. (Courtesy of the Manassas Museum System, Manassas, Virginia) Taft was due in Manassas at 4 p.m., but as the first president with an automobile, he decided to drive from Washington, following the route politicians and picnickers had taken to First Manassas in 1861. The four-car presidential caravan left the White House a little after noon on July 21. They were plagued by choking dust, a rainstorm, and flooded streams. Scrupulously observing Virginia law, Taft stopped to calm horses frightened at the convoys approach, and also stopped to dine at Falls Church and Fairfax. Three cars were left behind, when they encountered high water, while attempting to cross Rocky Run and Bull Run, and Tafts car barely made it across. Arriving at 5:30 p.m., Tafts party was greeted by a crowd of about 600, at Main and Church streets, and escorted to the enclosure at the nearby courthouse, where the Jubilee Committee, led by Round, greeted them. A crowd estimated at 10,000 was inside. Behind Taft on the reviewing stand were 48 young women, Peace Maidens, representing the states and mainland territories of the Union, who sang the Jubilee Anthem, United. Rounds daughter Ruth represented Rhode Island. The Jubilee was a great success, and Tafts remarks left few dry eyes in the crowd. Referring to the Civil Wars great loss of life and suffering, Taft declared that he deplored war and wished it could be abolished. Those who had experienced war, he stated, know what it is and want no more of it. Telling the veterans that he looked to them to aid in the movement for peace, Taft announced that both England and France had agreed to enter into an arbitration treaty with the United States. This agreement provided for international arbitration, for every issue which cannot be solved by negotiation, and was signed in August, shortly after the Jubilee. However, it was never ratified, and soon forgotten, in the cataclysm of World War I. The Jubilees success was further reflected in the fact that Round had received over a thousand letters and postals in response to the call for a Jubilee, and with one exception on each side, all are in perfect accord with the spirit of the Jubilee. That spirit was tested soon afterwards, when the Washington Post, on July 23rd, published two specials, denouncing the Jubilee. A Union veteran attendee, James E. Maddox, presumably from Erie, Pa., charged that the women of Manassas, in disrespectful tones, had refused water to the 15th U.S. Cavalry, Troops C and D, because they wore the uniform of the United States army. He also charged that thievery ran rampant at the Jubilee. Round and other Jubilee officials vigorously denied the charges. In a Manassas Democrat column, Round denounced both specials, calling the one datelined Manassas fabricated and false, sent by a reporter whose intention was to scorch the people of Manassas and the Jubilee. He further stated, The statement that Southern women denied water to Union veterans has no President William Howard Taft (standing at center) and Virginia Governor William Hodges Mann, a Confederate veteran (at Taft's right), at the 1911 Manassas National Jubilee of Peace, which marked the 50th anniversary of the First Battle of Manassas. (Library of Congress) foundation in fact. The water at Henry Hill gave out at 2 oclock in the afternoon, and all alike were so informed. The best women of Prince William County, including the Daughters of the Confederacypersonally served a free luncheon to all present, and more than twelve baskets were left, and The officers and men of the Fifteenth United States cavalry emphatically and indignantly deny that they have any cause for complaint of treatment by anyone. The thievery charge was likewise shown to be false. In an open letter to The Washington Post, Round called on the newspaper to retract the specials and apologize. The Post never did either. The Jubilee sparked widespread interest in Manassas, resulting in Manassas battlefield becoming a National Battlefield Park and landmark, in May 1940, after a long campaign. And the once sleepy crossroads grew from a town into a city, standing today as a testament to what determination born of devastation, opportunity, and good will can achieve. As another year marked by the global pandemic comes to an end, our photojournalists remain challenged and, frequently, awed - by the constant state of change. We documented our ever-evolving world in ways few photo staffs could as we all worked to regain normalcy amid COVID-19s seemingly unbreakable hold on our communities. We showed the relieved faces of people receiving a coveted vaccine, telling the story of a scientific breakthrough with images of those benefitting from it. We covered new workplace policies, school protocols and policing practices. We traveled half-way across the world to an Olympics where the athletes couldnt hug each other, masked medalists step atop the podium and no one came to watch. The Chicago Tribune faced its own series of changes, too. We have new owners. New bosses. Endured another move. Gained new talented journalists and lost many others from the newsroom ranks. The one constant has been our dedication to providing photography on a daily basis that is relevant to the communities we cover: The joy of picnicking at the lakefront on a summer afternoon, the pain of children, police officers and neighbors all falling victims to violent crime. Documenting whos in and whos out in the political landscape, escaping to your favorite cultural event or sports competition. We hope this installment of the annual Photos of the Year project reminds us of the moments that shaped our lives and the thoughtful way we portray them. Its also a platform for acknowledging the talent and dedication of Tribune photographers, and all photojournalists, who make change a way of life. The Chicago Tribune staff photographers for 2021: Brian Cassella, Erin Hooley, Terrence Antonio James, Vashon Jordan Jr., John J. Kim, Youngrae Kim, Jose M. Osorio, Antonio Perez, Armando L. Sanchez, Chris Sweda, Abel Uribe, E. Jason Wambsgans, Stacey Wescott and Raquel Zaldivar. Tribune visual editors: Mark Hume, Andrew Johnston, Marianne Mather, Steve Rosenberg and Peter Tsai. - Todd Panagopoulos, Director of Content/Visuals G rand Designs: The Street concludes tonight with the final episode of the six-part series following the build of a single-storey modular home, which is to be built off site in a factory and assembled in situ within a timeframe of just nine weeks. The ambitious series has been 10 years in the making and has taken five years to film the progress of the first 10 self-built homes in neighbouring plots. Called Graven Hill, this experimental new village is located on a stretch of land close to Bicester, just 14 miles from Oxford. It's the largest project of its kind ever attempted in the UK and series presenter Kevin McCloud and the Grand Designs crew have documented the trials and stresses encountered by the pioneering households attempting to build a new street. Each set of participants bought a plot of land for 100,000, on which they were tasked with building a home to fit their own individual requirements. We've seen flat-pack homes, an upside-down home and tonight we watch as Pauline, 55, and Godfrey,62, take on the challenge of designing and building a single-storey modular home with two bedrooms and two bathrooms on a budget of 220,000. But there are many practical and financial hurdles along the way before their bespoke home can be delivered to their plot at Graven Hill. Kevin McCloud exclusive on The Street: What Happens Next at Graven Hill TODO: define component type brightcove Graven Hill: an experimental new village The experimental scheme will eventually be home to social housing, custom-builds and self-builds to create a whole community on what was once a field. Over the next decade, 1,900 houses will be built on the site, with housing options for all budgets and skill levels on offer. Eager homeowners who want to put their own stamp on a property at Graven Hill can their own home from scratch like the shows participants, while those wanting a new home without having to get involved in the construction process can customise one of the new-build houses available in the scheme. The project will also include open-plan apartments in the village centre, within walking distance of Bicester train station, plus 32 shared-ownership homes as part of the first wave of affordable housing in the area. Southwestern Chinese city Chengdu won the bid to host the 2025 World Games on Thursday. The decision was made by the International World Games Association (IWGA) in its Annual General Meeting (AGM) at the SportAccord Convention held in Gold Coast of Australia. File photo of the night view of southwestern Chinese city Chengdu. [Photo: VCG] The AGM, with representatives from 37 IWGA member federations, unanimously ratified the decision of the IWGA Executive Committee taken the previous day to award the hosting right to Chengdu, after a comprehensive bid evaluation and an on-site inspection to the city in March this year. Mayor of Chengdu City Luo Qiang and IWGA President Jose Perurena signed the organizer agreement, under the witness of Yu Zaiqing, vice president of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and the Chinese Olympic Committee. "China organized the best multi-sport events in the history for all the different sports," said Perurena, adding the World Games will help promote new sports in China. Chengdu is the capital city of Southwest China's Sichuan Province. In the past three years, Chengdu has hosted more than a hundred top-level national sport events and more than 50 international sport events. "Chengdu highly appreciates the concept of the IWGA and believe that it is in line with Chengdu's development philosophy," said Chengdu mayor Luo. It will be the 12th edition of the World Games in Chengdu while Birmingham of the United States will hold the tournament in July 2021. Founded in 1980, the International World Games Association is a non-governmental and nonprofit international organization recognized by the IOC. The World Games is a multi-sport event staged every four years by the IWGA under the patronage of the IOC. The World Games are staged over a period of 11 days, with approximately 30 official sports in the program. Now Open 9 May 2019 Brussels/Zurich - Radisson Hospitality AB, part of the Radisson Hotel Group, is pleased to announce the opening of the Radisson Hotel Zurich Airport following a comprehensive reconstruction and rebranding. Arriving in Switzerland's largest city, the hotel will be the second Radisson-branded property to open in Europe - and the first in the German-speaking region - when it opens on 15 May 2019. As part of a repositioning and rebranding strategy, the former Park Inn by Radisson Zurich Airport in Rumlang has reopened under the Radisson brand. This is all part of the group's plan to introduce the sophisticated upscale full-service hotel brand to the Europe, Middle East & Africa (EMEA) region. The Radisson Hotel Zurich Airport has undergone extensive renovation work to prepare it for reopening. All 211 guestrooms have been completely refurbished, along with the communal areas of hotel - creating a fresh new look that will appeal to both business and leisure travelers. Meeting and conference attendees will also receive the warmest of welcomes at the new hotel. Its modern meeting infrastructure includes 10 conference rooms with natural daylight, state-of-the-art video and audio technologies as well as complimentary wireless internet. The location in Rumlang offers minimum commuting distances for guests: travel to Zurich Airport in the hotel shuttle takes just seven minutes, while 20 minutes on the city train brings visitors to Zurich's main downtown street, Bahnhofstrasse. The hotel's proximity to the airport also complements the Radisson Blu Hotel, Zurich Airport, which is located directly in the airport terminal. Pipeline 9 May 2019 Hyatt Hotels Corporation (NYSE:H) announced today that a Hyatt affiliate has entered into a management agreement with Shanghai Xintian Real Estate Co. Ltd., a joint venture by Shanghai Industrial Urban Development Group Limited (SIUD), Sun Hung Kai Properties Limited (SHKP), and Shanghai Minhang Urban Construction Investment Co., Ltd. for a Hyatt Centric hotel in the rising southwestern Shanghai. The 186-room hotel will be situated in a pivotal location, ideal for socially connected guests to find shareworthy experiences in the heart of the fast-growing city of Shanghai. A world-class city that never sleeps, Shanghai evokes modern, historical, and cosmopolitan experiences all at once. It has been one of the fastest developing cities in the world for the last twenty years, with more growth expected for years to come. Minhang, located in one of the inner suburbs of Shanghai, connects the busy Xuhui and Pudong districts with the surrounding areas of Hangzhou Bay. As home to two of Shanghai's newest areas, Xinzhuang and Hongqiao, the district has realized striking growth in recent years with an aim to become a modern downtown hub by 2020. Expected to open in 2024, the new Hyatt Centric hotel will be a part of a 7.5 million-square-foot (700,000-square-meter) mixed-use development on top of the Xinzhuang Subway Station, comprised of residential units, serviced apartments, premium offices and a grand shopping mall. Designed with social spaces to connect guests with one another, the hotel will feature a restaurant, gym, an 82-foot (25-meter) pool and two multi-functional meeting rooms to capture the burgeoning demand in the emerging Xinzhuang area. The development will be easily accessible to the Minhang Economic Development, Zizhu Science Park, National Exhibition and Convention Center and Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport/Hontqiao Railway Station via subway. It will also be connected to central Shanghai and nearby provinces and cities via expressways. Appointment 9 May 2019 BENCHMARK, a global hospitality company, has named Ron Droegmyer general manager for The Essex - Vermont's Culinary Resort & Spa, a Gemstone Collection property located in Essex, Vermont. Greg Champion, BENCHMARK's president and COO, made the announcement. Ron Droegmyer brings significant leadership experience to The Essex. He was previously general manager for PHM Consulting Limited, where he served on leadership task force assignments at hotels and upscale resorts, including properties on New York City. He earlier held the position of general manager for the Doubletree Fort Lee in New Jersey, the Holiday Inn Secaucus, also in New Jersey, and the Sheraton in Niagara Falls, New York. Mr. Droegmyer is a graduate of Florida International University where he earned a Bachelor's degree in Hospitality and Hotel Administration. He resides in Essex, Vermont. Appointment 9 May 2019 InterContinental San Diego announced the appointment of Chuck Abbott as General Manager of the luxurious bayfront property, opened in September 2018. With over 35 years of global hospitality experience, Abbott will confidently utilize his extensive leadership expertise to oversee and guide all hotel operations. Abbott joins InterContinental San Diego from Prince Waikiki Hotel in Hawaii, where he most recently served as General Manager during the hotel's multi-million-dollar rebranding and renovation. Previous to his role at Prince Waikiki, Abbott served as South East Asia Vice President for Starwood Hotels & Resorts from 2009 through 2014, where he directed and increased the performance of 31 operating hotels, eight brands, and 21 developments across Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines. Among his many achievements during his time with Starwood, Abbott has proven extremely effective and successful in increasing property revenues by millions of dollars to reach peak results, all while maintaining and increasing overall guest satisfaction. Abbott's professional history has spanned worldwide, holding high-profile positions such as Vice President of Operations for Sheraton Macao and St. Regis Macao, General Manager & Area Managing Director for St. Regis Hotel in Shanghai, and General Manager of Westin Resort Guam, Westin Kuming, China, and Westin Chosun Beach, Korea. Further exemplifying his exceptional work as an innovative and adaptive industry leader, Abbott was selected as one of the Top Ten Figures in China's Hospitality Industry Awards in 2003 and named one of the Influential Community Leaders in the Pudong New Development Area in 2007. Abbott is a graduate of Michigan State University, where he obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Hotel Restaurant Management. Dedicated to furthering the education of future young professionals, Abbott was previously an adjunct professor at University of Guam's School of Business & Tourism. Now, Abbott has relocated to San Diego with his wife of 38 years, Hae Hwa, whom he has two children with. Appointment 9 May 2019 World-renowned South African Chef Peter Tempelhoff is taking his next step in his culinary journey with Relais & Chateaux, having been appointed as Culinary Director at Cape Town's Ellerman House and mentor to Executive Chef Grant Daniels and his talented team. Tempelhoff has over 20 years of experience in Michelin-starred Relais & Chateaux restaurants across the culinary capitals of the world, including Eleven Madison Park in New York City (3*), Le Pre Catelan in Paris (3*) and Arzak in San Sebastian (3*). As the owner of FYN, his hugely successful urban fine dining eatery, Tempelhoff has his finger firmly on the pulse of Cape Town's dynamic local food scene and brings a constant source of inspiration and wealth of expertise to the kitchen. Tempelhoff has meticulously crafted a new menu at Ellerman House and is working on an exclusive dining experience, launching soon in the Wine Gallery. With new dishes such as 'Karoo lamb with sweetbreads, Parmesan pap, spekboom and pickled honey, gremolata and jus gras', guests at this luxury boutique hotel in Cape Town can expect a re-imagined culinary vision that continues to celebrate the very best of South Africa, while subtly infused with flavors from abroad. Tempelhoff is a celebrated member of Relais & Chateaux's World Culinary Council, a collection of 19 gourmands selected from over 560 Relais & Chateaux properties across the globe who set benchmarks in the industry for others to follow. Champions of outstanding savoir faire, Relais & Chateaux properties are renowned for their refined hospitality and inventive cuisine. Strong local emphasis is a hallmark of Relais & Chateaux properties, which seek to promote the diversity of the world's cuisine and hospitality traditions as well as protect the planet's unique ingredients. Event Africa often feels like tourism's best-kept secret. Despite being the world's second largest continent, overflowing with incredible assets including iconic wildlife, cutting-edge culture and award-winning luxury hotels, Africa has yet to emerge on the international scene as a serious contender. Unbelievably, it represents less than 5% of tourism arrivals and has the second lowest tourism growth of all regions. Equally as troubling is the outsider's tendency to paint Africa with broad, reductive brushstrokes, polarised as either a place of war, famine and disease, or else as 'the safari country'. We Are Africa's vision is to unlock Africa from these tired old tropes, projecting a more modern and dynamic image outwards and bringing a plethora of new business in. In cooperation with the continent's best travel brands, we are dedicated to telling the many stories of Africa's diverse countries and people. Our annual event in Cape Town is the culmination of this vision, giving key international buyers and press the opportunity to encounter the most extraordinary experiences Africa has to offer alongside a conference, awards ceremony and networking events. Our exclusively African travel marketplace is also the ideal complimentary marketing solution to PURE Life Experiences, which is tailored to private travel designers interested in all seven continents. We Are Africa is organized by Press Release 9 May 2019 Frankfurt am Main - Deutsche Hospitality has gained its first Scandinavian branch award. At the Nordic Hotel Investment Conference in Copenhagen, Deutsche Hospitality won an NHC Award for its successful takeover of the Scandinavian hotel group Zleep Hotels. The NHC Conference Award recognises companies which have played a leading role in the hotel sector and have made a major contribution to the development of the Nordic hotel market. Advertisements In its statement, the jury drew attention to the effective acquisition of 51 percent of the shares of the family-run Zleep Hotels by the German company. "The takeover of Zleep Hotels is the first transaction of this kind to be completed by an international provider in the Nordic countries. Zleep Hotels offers strong potential for growth, both in Scandinavia and internationally." This prestigious branch award for Northern Europe was conferred on innovative and pioneering companies in the international hospitality industry at the Nordic Hotel Investment Conference on 8 and 9 May 2019. LTR: Peter Haaber, founder & CEO of Zleep Hotels, Thomas Willms, CEO of Deutsche Hospitality / Steigenberger Hotels AG Deutsche Hospitality "We are delighted to receive this award, because Zleep Hotels are the perfect addition to our brand portfolio," said Deutsche Hospitality's CEO Thomas Willms, who attended the Nordic Hotel Investment Conference in Copenhagen. "This new brand and the locations in Denmark and Sweden will enable us to expand our presence in important areas and thus offer our customers an even wider network." The Zleep Hotels portfolio currently includes ten hotels in Denmark and one in Sweden. Four further hotels are at the specific planning stage. The Zleep Hotels Group is based in Denmark, where it operates in the economy segment. The company was founded by Peter Haaber in 2003. The brand is characterised by service, quality and Scandinavian friendliness. Opinion Article 9 May 2019 Greetings from Los Angeles and the beautiful Hyatt Regency LAX! Advertisements Yesterday, we kicked off Meet the Money 2019 - the National Hotel Finance & Investment Conference hosted by JMBM's Global Hospitality Group - with the LIIC Top Ten. Presented by my friend, Mike Cahill, CEO and Founder of HREC and one of LIIC's co-chairmen, the LIIC Top Ten reflects the perspectives of the industry's most active members in the hospitality market. Jim About the LIIC Top Ten For the past 15 years, the members of the hotel industry's preeminent think tank, "LIIC - The Lodging Industry Investment Council," are annually surveyed to develop a list of the major hotel investment opportunities and challenges for the coming year. This exhaustive survey results in the LIIC Top Ten, a highly regarded profile of investment sentiment and attitudes for the lodging industry for the forthcoming 12 months. Altogether, the members of LIIC represent direct acquisition and disposition control of well over $60 billion of lodging real estate. Members are currently extremely active and have the pulse of the market, with 64% of LIIC hotel investors having successfully sold a hotel in the last 12 months and 50% purchased a lodging asset. In defiance of any late cycle concerns, 93% are looking to buy more hotels over the next 24 months. The hospitality industry's most influential investors, lenders, corporate real estate executives, REIT's, public hotel companies, brokers and significant lodging equity sources are represented on the Council. LIIC serves as the leading industry think tank for the lodging real estate business (www.liic.org). 2019 LIIC Top Ten Survey Results: Hotel Real Estate - Mostly Sunny Days Clouded by Labor Issues: Overall, the 2019 LIIC Survey indicates mostly sunny skies for the next 12 months, with labor difficulties squeezing margins in a slower ADR growth environment. An overwhelming 90% believe the limited pool of labor has directly impacted property level gross operating profit in the last 12 months. How can owners solve the labor problem? 67% advise investing more in current employees, 46% suggest targeting young high school talent and 41% believe increased use of immigrants will help. Hotel Property Values Still Increasing: Over the next 12 months, 40% anticipate that lodging real estate values will increase up to 5%. 37% believe values will be flat in comparison to 2018. Similar to last year, Upscale (35%) and Upper Upscale (29%) are preferred targets for buyers today. 40% believe hotel going-in capitalization rates will rise slightly, with 37% believing rates will be flat. Top Three Threats to Your Hotel Investment: Low Unemployment (availability of labor): 67% of LIIC members believe the lack of suitable employees is the number one threat to hotel investment. An increase from 49% in 2018 and 26% in 2017. 67% of LIIC members believe the lack of suitable employees is the number one threat to hotel investment. An increase from 49% in 2018 and 26% in 2017. New Lodging Supply/General Oversupply: The former top investment concern in 2018, new hotel supply, is now a close second (64%). The former top investment concern in 2018, new hotel supply, is now a close second (64%). Federal and/or State Minimum Wage Hikes: In this low RevPAR growth environment, profitability margins are being squeezed quickly and with additional minimum wage hikes on the horizon, LIIC members are worried. Hotel Transactions for Calendar 2019? In an abrupt turnaround from last year, 43% believe the total dollar volume of U.S. hotel transactions in calendar 2019 relative to year-end 2018 will increase, and 28% believe volume will be flat. The total number of assets forecasted to be sold by year-end 2019 is positive, 39% up, 36% flat and 25% down. Hotel Debt: Investors still like the current debt market, with 78% of owners planning to refinance in the next 12 months. 58% believe hotel acquisition lending conditions will be stable with current levels over the next 12 months. Interestingly, 25% believe the availability of debt will improve, frequently citing more debt fund activity. Investors Remain Contradictory on New Hotel Development: While 64% of hotel owners cringe about the negative impact new lodging supply is having on their hotel investments, 67% are pushing forward and believe it is still a good time to build, if selective about product and market. 82% of relevant LIIC members actually have new hotels actively under development, with 85% believing Select Service is the best product type. Hotel Buyers Frustrated? Quantity: In a reversal from last year, 36% of investors believe that an "above average quantity" of hotels are available for purchase, 39% at "average quantity." Quality: 66% believe the overall quality (desirability to purchase) of assets on the market is average. In the next 12 months, regional owner/operators and major private equity are expected to lead the hotel investment buyer pool in the purchase of Upscale Select-Service hotels. Scary Hotel Markets? LIIC members were asked in which three of the top 25 markets they "would not consider buying a hotel." This year, LIIC members shuffled their cards, electing the same five scariest markets while merely changing the order: Norfolk/Virginia Beach (33%; up from 4th last year) Nashville, TN (31%; down from 1st place last year) St. Louis, MO-IL (28%; down from 2nd place) New York, NY (24%; up from 5th place) Detroit, MI (21%; improving, down from 3rd) Sleeper - where to buy? New Orleans! Only one vote against, time to buy in The Big Easy. Opportunity Zone Investment? Trump's real estate gift, opportunity zones, appears less desirable than anticipated, albeit still significant. 36% of LIIC investors are planning to concentrate future lodging investments within tax advantaged Opportunity Zones. What about a recession? "Once bitten, twice shy" hotel investors still see a national recession in our near future. 43% believe it will occur in 2021, followed by 25% in 2020. A brave, Nostradamus-esque few (19%) do not see a recession in the next four years. LIIC Bonus Questions: Twitter? You won't reach top hotel investors on Twitter, 78% do not use it at all. Pay College Athletes? 44% of LIIC believe NCAA Division I college athletes should be additionally compensated with salaries or stipends. Capitalism rules! No to check-out! Only 11% of the nation's top hotel owners visit the front desk to formally check-out after a stay. Labor savings! Mike Cahill, LIIC co-chairman, produced this year's survey (www.mikecahill.com). Mr. Cahill is CEO and Founder of HREC - Hospitality Real Estate Counselors, a leading international hotel and casino brokerage and advisory firm (16 offices nationwide) specializing in lodging property sales, debt financing, consulting and litigation support (www.hrec.com). James Few and Morgan Wheeler, Associates in HREC's Denver office, assisted throughout the process. Performance 9 May 2019 The stars of hotel development in Africa are Egypt, Nigeria, Morocco and Ethiopia, according to the 11thannual survey by W Hospitality Group, acknowledged as the industry's most authoritative source. The four countries head the top ten by numbers of rooms in the internationally-branded hotel development pipeline, with Egypt showing 15,158 rooms in 51 new hotels. A total of 75,155 branded rooms in 401 hotels are in development across the whole of Africa - a net increase (ignoring recent openings and taking in to account deals that have not come to fruition) of almost 11,000 rooms in the pipeline, 17% up on 2018. W Hospitality Group's Hotel Chain Development Pipelines in Africa survey had a record 43 international and regional hotel contributors this year, covering 54 countries in north and sub-Saharan Africa, and the Indian Ocean islands. The top-line figures show that in North Africa the rooms pipeline is up 2.3% on 2018, and down 3.8% in sub-Saharan Africa - largely due to several of the chains "cleaning" their pipelines, deleting deals that they believe are not going to happen. These cleaning adjustments amount to more than 12,000 rooms in 74 hotels. Nevertheless, despite this significant adjustment, there has been growth of 51% in the total pipeline rooms since 2015 - North Africa up by 58%, and sub-Saharan Africa up by 47%. This year, the top ten countries account for 69% of the total hotels in the survey, and 74% of the rooms. Full details will be revealed and discussed at the Africa Hotel Investment Forum (AHIF) in Addis Ababa, September 23 - 25 2019, organised by Bench Events. It is the leading conference of its kind in Africa, connecting business leaders and fuelling investment in tourism projects, infrastructure and hotel development across the continent. The country rankings in full Advertisements Photo: Bench Digital Trevor Ward, Managing Director, W Hospitality Group said: "Egypt has by far the largest number of rooms in the pipeline this year, almost double the number in Nigeria, which is in second place. There has been huge activity by the chains in Egypt, with over 2,000 new rooms signed there in 2017, and a further 4,500 in 2018, of which 1,850 were signed by Radisson. Accor has no fewer than 16 deals with 6,363 hotels in Egypt, boosted by new brands from its acquisitions, including Movenpick and Fairmont." He continued: "It's interesting that there has also been a lot of activity in some of Africa's countries, such as Niger and Zambia. In Niamey (Niger), where there is currently no branded hotel supply, there are no fewer than 5 hotels in the pipeline, and in Lusaka (Zambia), the chains signed 11 deals in 2018 and early 2019, taking the total pipeline there to 15 hotels with almost 1,900 rooms." The pipeline in Nigeria has fallen by 17 per cent compared with 2018, with a few openings, including Hilton's first Curio Hotel in Africa, the Legend Hotel in Lagos. The drop is due predominantly to a "cleaning out" of 11 deals comprising 2,100 rooms, and a reduction in activity generally due to the economic downturn. Ethiopia, in fourth place, has seen another increase in pipeline deals, up from 31 hotels in 2018, signed by international chains such as Accor and Hilton, as well as by regional chains such as aha and Latitude. Best Western and IHG each signed two hotels in 2018. The majority of these deals, 27 hotels with 84 per cent of total rooms, are in Addis Ababa. In Trevor's opinion, "They join a multitude of half-built unbranded hotels, leading to fears of oversupply. But the likelihood of all these deals delivering new hotels, branded and unbranded, is very low, reducing the capacity risk." As last year, four of the five North African countries are in the top 10 by number of planned rooms, with Morocco, in third place, recording an increase of 17.2 per cent on last year. There, 14 deals comprising 2,423 rooms were signed in 2018. These include Onomo's portfolio deal with Cantor Hotel Group (six hotels with 740 rooms) and Six Senses' first deals in Africa, as they develop a chain of Kasbahs. Unsurprisingly, owing to the political situation, there are no new deals being signed in Libya, where some previous projects have been cancelled. Looking at the top ten cities, Cairo, with over 8,000 rooms in development and Addis Ababa, with over 5,000, have a clear lead. They are followed by Lagos (the leader for several previous years) and then Nairobi, Algiers, Abuja, Dakar, Abijan, Lusaka and Marrakech, the last two in the top ten for the first time. Photo: Bench Digital Egypt is not only the country with the most internationally-branded hotels in development, it also has the most internationally-branded properties already operated by the contributors, 108 hotels with 35,711 rooms between them. The countries which rank next, in terms of branded hotel rooms already operating are South Africa with 24,048, Morocco with 12,498 and then Tunisia, Nigeria and Algeria, all with just over 5,000. Kenya has over 4,000 branded rooms and it is followed by Ghana, Tanzania and Cape Verde, each with just over 2,000. At the other end of the list, there are four countries with no internationally-branded hotels and none in the development pipeline; they are Central African Republic, Eritrea, The Gambia and Somalia. In the battle of the brands, Accor is the strongest pipeline player in Africa with more than 27,000 rooms spread across 162 hotels. It is followed by Marriott with over 23,000 rooms in 135 hotels. However, if both complete their current development pipelines with no further additions, they will stand neck and neck with just over 40,000 rooms each operating in Africa. Hilton is in third place, Radisson fourth and IHG fifth, after which, there is a substantial gap between the big five and other international chains. Photo: Bench Digital Jonathan Worsley, Chairman of Bench Events, which organises AHIF, said: "Every year, W Hospitality Group's report gets bigger and better, reflecting the strong long-term investment in the industry. I am struck by the saying "to develop in Africa, you have to be in Africa", and I note that the top four hotel chains in terms of rooms, i.e. Marriott, Accor, Hilton and Radisson, which represent almost 70 per cent of the total pipeline, all have well-resourced development offices on the continent." * Existing Hotels/Rooms figures are only for the chains contributing to the survey About W Hospitality Group The W Hospitality Group, a member of Hotel Partners Africa, specialises in the provision of advisory services to the hotel, tourism and leisure industries, providing a full range of services to clients who have investments in the sector, or who are looking to enter them through development, acquisition or other means. In sub-Saharan Africa the W Hospitality Group is regarded as the market leader due to the market and financial expertise of its staff, its worldwide knowledge, and its commitment to its clients. In Africa, W Hospitality Group has to date worked in 39 countries on the continent, from its Lagos and Addis Ababa offices. About the Africa Hotel Investment Forum (AHIF) AHIF is the premier hotel investment conference in Africa, attracting many prominent international hotel owners, investors, financiers, management companies and their advisers. It is organised by Bench Events (www.benchevents.com), who has a long track record of delivering multiple premium hotel investment conferences and forums across Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Asia and Latin America. Bench Events' mission is enabling prosperity by facilitating growth, networking, and thought leadership in the hospitality industry worldwide. www.benchevents.com. Sponsors of AHIF are: Platinum Sponsors: Accor, Hilton, Marriott International and Radisson Hotel Group; Gold Sponsors: Aleph Hospitality, Calibra Hospitality Consultancy and Business Group, Cabo International Partners, Citymax Hotels, Drawlink; Drees & Sommer, Grant Thornton, Hotel Partners Africa, Insignia, IHG, JLL, Munich RE, PrideInn, STR, Stuart and Partners and TIME Hotels. Performance 9 May 2019 HENDERSONVILLE, Tennessee The Canadian hotel industry recorded positive year-over-year results in the three key performance metrics during the week of 28 April through 4 May 2019, according to data from STR. Advertisements In comparison with the week of 29 April through 5 May 2018, the industry reported the following: Occupancy: +2.2% to 68.8% Average daily rate (ADR): +2.7% to CAD162.93 Revenue per available room (RevPAR): +5.0% to CAD112.16 Among the provinces and territories, Saskatchewan registered the largest jump in RevPAR (+13.9% to CAD73.86). British Columbia posted the largest lift in ADR (+7.2% to CAD200.92). Newfoundland and Labrador experienced the highest rise in occupancy (+19.0% to 55.7%). Nova Scotia reported the steepest declines in each of the three key performance metrics: occupancy (-7.1% to 66.5%), ADR (-5.0% to CAD142.16) and RevPAR (-11.7% to CAD94.58). New Brunswick saw the only other decrease in RevPAR (-6.8% to CAD77.31), due primarily to the second-largest drop in occupancy (-6.6% to 61.8%). Performance 9 May 2019 HENDERSONVILLE, Tennessee The U.S. hotel industry reported positive year-over-year results in the three key performance metrics during the week of 28 April through 4 May 2019, according to data from STR. Advertisements In comparison with the week of 29 April through 5 May 2018, the industry recorded the following: Occupancy: +1.2% to 69.1% Average daily rate (ADR): +2.3% to US$133.43 Revenue per available room (RevPAR): +3.6% to US$92.21 Among the Top 25 Markets, Boston, Massachusetts, registered the largest increases in each of the three key performance metrics: occupancy (+8.2% to 80.5%), ADR (+8.5% to US$227.08) and RevPAR (+17.4% to US$182.69). Two markets matched for the second-highest rise in occupancy: Chicago, Illinois (+6.9% to 74.4%), and Minneapolis/St. Paul, Minnesota-Wisconsin (+6.9% to 72.4%). Chicago posted the second-largest jump in RevPAR (+14.5% to US$116.05). Overall, 15 of the Top 25 Markets reported an increase in RevPAR. Houston, Texas, saw the steepest declines in occupancy (-6.9% to 66.4%) and ADR (-17.0% to US$107.41), which resulted in the largest drop in RevPAR (-22.7% to US$71.33). St. Louis, Missouri-Illinois, registered the second-largest decreases in each of the three key performance metrics: occupancy (-5.1% to 65.5%), ADR (-4.5% to US$106.30) and RevPAR (-9.4% to US$69.59). Download STR's weekly U.S. hotel review. is a secure file sync and share service, headquartered in Denmark, offering safe cloud storage and file synchronization. With RushFiles, a fileserver is easily migrated to a secure cloud, where all employees can access company files from any device, while always knowing where the data is stored and who has access. Thanks to RushFiles youll always be in control of your valuable corporate data.With the new HostBill integration you can now sell RushFiles accounts! The RushFiles module for HostBill is a ready-made tool that gives you the opportunity to expand your product portfolio, gain extra profit and new customers completely hassle-free!As always, HostBill automatically creates accounts and handle account lifecycle. 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For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. You should upgrade or use an You are using an out of date browser. It may not display this or other websites correctly.You should upgrade or use an alternative browser Expected to open in 2024, the new Hyatt Centric hotel will be a part of a 7.5 million-square-foot (700,000-square-meter) mixed-use development on top of the Xinzhuang Subway Station, comprised of residential units, serviced apartments, premium offices and a grand shopping mall. Hyatt Hotels Corporation (NYSE:H) announced today that a Hyatt affiliate has entered into a management agreement with Shanghai Xintian Real Estate Co. Ltd., a joint venture by Shanghai Industrial Urban Development Group Limited (SIUD), Sun Hung Kai Properties Limited (SHKP), and Shanghai Minhang Urban Construction Investment Co., Ltd. for a Hyatt Centric hotel in the rising southwestern Shanghai. The 186-room hotel will be situated in a pivotal location, ideal for socially connected guests to find shareworthy experiences in the heart of the fast-growing city of Shanghai. A world-class city that never sleeps, Shanghai evokes modern, historical, and cosmopolitan experiences all at once. It has been one of the fastest developing cities in the world for the last twenty years, with more growth expected for years to come. Minhang, located in one of the inner suburbs of Shanghai, connects the busy Xuhui and Pudong districts with the surrounding areas of Hangzhou Bay. As home to two of Shanghais newest areas, Xinzhuang and Hongqiao, the district has realized striking growth in recent years with an aim to become a modern downtown hub by 2020. As Hyatts fastest growing lifestyle brand, the Hyatt Centric brand is all about connecting guests to the heart of the action so they never miss a moment of adventure, said Stephen Ho, President, Greater China, Global Operations for Hyatt. As we commemorate Hyatts 50th anniversary in Greater China and the Asia Pacific region this fall, we are delighted to be expanding this unique brand to both international and Chinese travelers in Shanghai another exciting addition to the Hyatt portfolio in this ever-thriving city. We look forward to working with Xintian Properties on this project, with SIUD offering the most prime location in Minhang and SHKPs extensive experience in mixed-use development to witness what this destination has to offer and set new milestones in the hospitality industry. Expected to open in 2024, the new Hyatt Centric hotel will be a part of a 7.5 million-square-foot (700,000-square-meter) mixed-use development on top of the Xinzhuang Subway Station, comprised of residential units, serviced apartments, premium offices and a grand shopping mall. Designed with social spaces to connect guests with one another, the hotel will feature a restaurant, gym, an 82-foot (25-meter) pool and two multi-functional meeting rooms to capture the burgeoning demand in the emerging Xinzhuang area. The development will be easily accessible to the Minhang Economic Development, Zizhu Science Park, National Exhibition and Convention Center and Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport/Hontqiao Railway Station via subway. It will also be connected to central Shanghai and nearby provinces and cities via expressways. It is our great pleasure to be working with Hyatt on this project and look forward to leveraging our expertise with Hyatts innovative approach in the hospitality industry to meet our customers evolving needs, said Eric Tung, Executive Director of SHKP and Board Chairman of TODTOWN. This project has received huge support from the local government and is the first transit-oriented development to be constructed without disrupting existing transit operations. The complex is set to be another successful transportation hub in Shanghai, connecting the south and north sides of the railway to alleviate the current urban fragmentation problems. Daily News Delivery Join your colleagues and stay up to date on the latest Hotel industry news and trends. Subscribe 2021 Hotel News Resource The Hotel Zags Portland, formerly Hotel Modera, has launched a custom website in partnership with HEBS Digital to showcase its new, out-of-the-box brand. The Portland hotels new brand appeals to young, creative travelers through a variety of engaging offerings and services. The Hotel Zags Portland worked with the HEBS Digital team to create a website as welcoming and vibrant as its new voice. The Hotel Zags Portland, formerly Hotel Modera, has launched a custom website in partnership with HEBS Digital to showcase its new, out-of-the-box brand. The Portland hotels new brand appeals to young, creative travelers through a variety of engaging offerings and services. The Hotel Zags Portland worked with the HEBS Digital team to create a website as welcoming and vibrant as its new voice. The new website brings the best of Portland to life through custom page designs, including a neighborhood guide featuring an interactive map and illustrated walking tours and a page for its complimentary equipment rental service, the Gear Shed. Through the use of graphic elements and vivid animations, both the Portland imagery and copy capture the adventure and liveliness guests can expect during a stay at The Hotel Zags. For this design, I was inspired by The Hotel Zags abstract art branding concepts, said Elisa Yi, Senior Designer at HEBS Digital. I used a broken grid layout in which images and copy overlap to create an organic, DIY feel while still remaining cohesive. I also incorporated a lot of thick brush strokes and bright, bold colors throughout the website to evoke the feeling of a painting or work of art and to appeal to a younger audience. The Hotel Zags Portland comes to HEBS Digital from Sage Hospitality, a partner of the agency for three years. Other notable projects created through the partnership include The Oxford Hotel, The Blackstone Hotel, and Perry Lane Hotel. With The Hotel Zags Portland, HEBS Digital sought to incorporate the signature Sage Hospitality style, while still capturing the propertys unique personality. Ive had the pleasure of working with the HEBS Digital team on more than ten projects over the last three years, says Britt Estes, Director of Digital Marketing for Sage Hospitality. They consistently deliver high-quality websites that really showcase our properties brand and voice The Hotel Zags Portland was no exception! Im excited to continue working with the HEBS Digital team on future Sage Hospitality projects. Explore The Hotel Zags website and view more websites in the HEBS Digital portfolio. Daily News Delivery Join your colleagues and stay up to date on the latest Hotel industry news and trends. Subscribe 2021 Hotel News Resource Strategy may involve tourist tax and closing down attractions in crowded regions Excerpt from The Guardian Strategy may involve tourist tax and closing down attractions in crowded regions The tulips are being trampled, the people of Amsterdam squeezed out of their canal-side homes and the Netherlands' most picturesque villages, famous for their windmills, swamped. Now, with as many as 42 million people forecast to visit the country annually by 2030, up from 18 million in 2018, the Netherlands tourist board has had enough. In a major shift, the board is moving its focus from promoting the country as a tourist destination to trying to manage the huge numbers coming in by plane, train and automobile. A country of 17 million people can have too much of a good thing, it is suggested. "We say that 'more' is not always better, certainly not everywhere," a tourist board policy document states. "To be able to control visitor flows, we must take action now. Instead of destination promotion it's time for destination management." Such is the nuisance factor of some tourists in parts of the Netherlands that the tourist board is even encouraging regions to take up a policy of "develop and discourage". Amsterdammers v tourists: 'It's worst when they throw up in your plant box' Read moreA document laying out the strategy suggests this might require actively dissuading people from visiting certain areas through means such as closing down disreputable attractions to imposing a tourist tax. The standard of life of some of the country's residents is said to be coming under pressure. "Tourism is not a goal, in this perspective," a spokeswoman for the tourist board said of the strategy, which was devised at the end of last year but has hit the headlines in Holland due to recent budget negotiations with the Dutch government. "Some cities and regions are very busy cities such as Amsterdam or areas such as Giethoorn, a small village with a lot of windmills and farmers and there are a lot of Chinese tourists that are very interested in that village," the spokeswoman said. Click here to read complete article at The Guardian. Daily News Delivery Join your colleagues and stay up to date on the latest Hotel industry news and trends. Subscribe 2021 Hotel News Resource dormakabas Secure Reliability and Excellent Support Build Trust at Mid America Lodging Group dormakaba, the provider of secure Saflok and Ilco electronic door locks, announced Mid America Lodging Group selected dormakaba to deploy locks in more than 3,000 rooms across 21-properties in its portfolio. Mid America Lodging Group operates Hilton, Marriott, IHG, Choice and other brands and is recognized as a leader in hotel management, acquisition, and development. dormakaba is a total solution provider for the hospitality industry and one of the top three companies in the global market for access and security solutions. Mid America Lodging Group will rely on dormakabas secure Saflok Quantum RFID mobile-ready electronic door locks. The Quantum RFID lock offers an attractive two-piece modular design for a sleek look and superior lock performance. Mid America will network its locks with dormakabas Ambiance Access Management Software. Ambiance is an ideal solution to manage dormakabas family of advanced locking systems. The system puts operators in full control of property entry and egress areas by specifying time sensitive access permissions. 21 properties is just the beginning. We standardized Mid America's properties on dormakaba because their locks are reliable and dormakabas support is excellent, said Libby George, director of operations for Mid America Lodging Group. A trustworthy supplier relationship is very important to us. We have used dormakabas locks in the past and they are secure and easy to maintain. Twenty-one properties is just a beginning. We will implement dormakaba locks at approximately 30 more hotels in the future. This includes many properties with magstripe locks that we will retrofit with dormakaba RFID BLE-ready units. Mid America Lodging Group currently operates 42 properties with 20 in development. Founder, Malik Abdulnoor is a two-time recipient of IHGs Developer of the Year award. We build and operate our properties and are known for our commitment to our communities, teams and business partners, George said. It is essential in our business to make guests feel important. The last thing we want is for our door locks to fail. We trust dormakaba and its professional team. dormakaba and Mid America Lodging Group have a longstanding, successful relationship built on trust, said Stephen Pollack, dormakaba vice president of marketing. As Mid America grew it partnered with dormakaba and now its new properties will standardize on our networked BLE-ready locks. We value our relationship with Mid America and will continue to deliver the secure solutions and top-notch service they have come to expect. dormakaba is a total solution provider for the hospitality industry. Its extensive product portfolio gives architects, developers and property managers creative and operational freedom with versatile technology design solutions. Its systems address the functional needs of any hotel type by controlling and monitoring access at every entry point. dormakaba's guest-centric solutions merge security with convenience to create a safer more welcoming environment that enhances the overall guest experience. About dormakaba dormakaba makes access in life smart and secure. As one of the top three companies in the industry, dormakaba is the trusted partner for products, solutions and services for access to buildings and rooms from a single source. With strong brands such as Dorma, Kaba and Best in its portfolio, the company and its numerous cooperation partners are represented in over 130 countries worldwide. dormakaba is listed at the SIX Swiss exchange, is headquartered in Rumlang (Zurich/Switzerland) and generated a turnover of over CHF 2.8 billion with more than 16,000 employees in financial year 2017/18. For more information about dormakaba USA Inc., please visit www.dormakaba.com. https://www.dormakaba.com/us-en/solutions/products/lodging-systems About Mid America Lodging Group Mid America Lodging Group was created from the determined vision of Malik Abdulnoor, leader and founder. With the collaboration of great business strategies and dedicated team members Mr. Abdulnoor grew the largest hospitality management group in the State of Michigan. A humble beginning for this driven businessman focused on building a successful organization to encompass the traditional values of providing quality experiences at each and every location under his ownership. His tireless efforts to build a reputable company that believes in loyalty and honesty has made Mid America Lodging Group a desired employer, partner and collaborator in the hospitality world. Please visit http://malodginggroup.com/ CONTACTS: dormakaba Stephen Pollack Vice President Marketing Phone: 1-859-253-4744 x3542 Email: stephen.pollack@dormakaba.com www.dormakaba.com Media Contact: Julie Keyser-Squires, APR Softscribe Inc. 609 SW 8th Street, Ste 600 Bentonville, AR 72712 Phone: 404-256-5512 Email: Julie(at)softscribeinc.com www.softscribeinc.com Daily News Delivery Join your colleagues and stay up to date on the latest Hotel industry news and trends. Subscribe 2021 Hotel News Resource This past weekend, YouTube sensation Jake Paul hosted a birthday party for rapper Desiigner in a Calabasas, California mansion. The place was crawling with celebrities and heavily supplied with liquor, but there have been accusations that a handful of attendees were drugged while there. The first of the allegations came from a woman who shared in a private Facebook group that her daughter "ended up in the hospital with eight other girls who had been drugged and ended up at West Hills Hospital incoherent." "A big warning to those with teenage daughters," the woman wrote. "My daughter was at a party in Calabasas last night for YouTuber Jake Paul. The house was a mansion filled with young people. She ended up in the hospital with eight other girls who had been drugged and ended up at West Hills Hospital incoherent. Something was put in their drinks. The girls were all half naked and unable to walk or talk." "They were made to sign a disclaimer at the door," she continued. "I'm sharing this in hopes that you will talk to your teens and young adults. I'm sharing this in hopes to help someone. I will be reporting this to the authorities." Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department's Lt. Jennifer Seetoo that one person who claimed to have been drugged at the party has filed a complaint. The Los Angeles County Fire Department reportedly pulled a post-and-delete on Instagram where they said they "spent the majority of Saturday night transporting multiple patients from a party thrown by YouTuber @jakepaul." Buzzfeed News reports that an anonymous representative for Paul told them the social media star hired Arman Izadi to plan the $500,000 party for him. Izadi reportedly has quite the reputation as he's previously faced robbery, kidnapping, pimping, and assault-related charges. The unnamed representative also said that Paul had nothing to do with drugging anyone and was never around unconscious individuals. "We take this claim [of guests being drugged] very seriously," Paul's attorney, Stanton "Larry" Stein, said. "And we are working with authorities to make absolutely sure we do our part to uncover the truth." Kim Kardashian has faced her fair share of criticism over the years but regardless of what you think of her, she's using her platform to do some good in the world. It was reported yesterday that she's helped at least seventeen inmates get released from prison. Most recently, she and Kanye West paid a visit to one of the inmates she helped release and offered to help remove his face tattoos so he could get a fresh start in life. Pascal Le Segretain/Getty Images Azaria Algarin's twin brother, Paul, was recently released from prison in North Carolina after serving 7 years. During his incarceration, Paul asked his sister for Kim Kardashian's address to send her a letter after hearing about the prison reform work she's done. Azaria doubted that Kim would even read the letter but as it turns out, not only did read the letter but she pulled up to their home in person with Kanye. Kim and Kanye flew out to Charlotte following Monday's Met Gala to meet Paul, Azaria and their mom. Kim also brought a doctor along with her to discuss the removal of Paul's face tatts in order to start fresh after his release. The cost of the surgery will be covered by Kim and Kanye. "Never in a million years did I think Kim would write him back (or even read his letter), fly in right after the met gala (not to mention her 4th baby is due at any minute), invest in our family & laugh / relate to us over the smallest things," Azaria wrote on Instagram. Azaria told TMZ that she, her mom and Paul went to lunch with Kim and Kanye at The Lights Juicery & Cafe before heading to MedSpa for the first lasering session in Paul's tattoo removal procedure. Lil Wayne and Blink-182 will be hitting the road together this summer for their co-headlining tour. It's an unexpected pairing that still makes sense somehow but ultimately, it's just nice to know that Lil Wayne will be hitting the road on his first major tour in a minute. The two acts will be venturing through 40 cities on their tour which they announced with a live mash-up of "What's My Age Again?" and "A Milli." The tour kicks off in Colombus, OH in July before concluding in Cincinnati in September. Jerritt Clark/Getty Images Although fans waited years for Tha Carter V, it looks like Lil Wayne might already be over it. According to a screenshot a fan posted from the Ticketmaster website, Weezy might have another album coming just in time for the tour. "Your ticket comes with a physical CD per order with your choice of Blink-182s or Lil Waynes forthcoming album. Approximately 24-48 hours after purchase, you will receive an additional email with instruction on how to redeem your album. US/Canadian residents only. One CD per online order. Not valid for Fan to Fan Resale" Now, there are a few possibilities as to what album this could be. Last month, the rapper teased the release of a new album titled, Funeralwhich he initially announced in 2016. However, there's also a possibility that this album could be Wayne's long-awaited collaborative project with Mannie Fresh which the producer confirmed was in the works in April. Either way, we're excited to hear whatever Weezy got up his sleeve this summer. Mustard's "Pure Water" continues to blaze a trail across the Billboard charts, keeping the Migos' collective presence strong despite a hiatus of sorts. Now, with his upcoming album in the pipeline, Mustard has officially delivered his new single "100 Bands," with a truly star-studded lineup of featured guests. The track features YG, 21 Savage, Meek Mill, and Quavo, and looks to arrive alongside an elaborate and cinematic visual. Case in point, Mustard's announcement trailer below, which provides our first glimpse at the visuals to come upon its widespread release tomorrow. After discovering an exotic car amidst a flaming desert wreckage, Mustard peels off to the dulcet tones of Quavo. For the most part, the Migos rapper appears to be keeping comfortably within his wheelhouse, bringing his signature flavor as he repeats the track's namesake. Instrumentally, "100 Bands" is highly percussive, with racing hi-hats dominating the mix. "10 bands in the right hand," boasts Quavo. "10 bands, 10 bands in my left hand, make her best friend be her hypeman," he raps, as Mustard's drag-racing intensifies. The track is currently out in select international markets, with the North American release coming at midnight. To those who have heard the track, who do you think had the best verse? Marvel's Avengers: Endgame continues its run as the world's most successful movie, and many fans have taken to debating the film's merit in hindsight. Now that the dust has settled, The Russo Brothers have begun a press-run, hitting up EW for a quick conversation. During the interview, the pair reveal that Marvel intends on having a character come out of the closet in an upcoming fan, alluding to it being a well-known character at that. When reflecting on his own cameo in the film--Joe Russo portrayed a grieving gay man who ultimately went on his first post-Snap date--he suggested that another known character remains in the closet, at least for now. "Thereve been insinuations about other characters sexuality, but [the grieving man] is the first openly gay character," he mentions. When asked for further clarification about the closeted character's identity, Joe plays coy. "Were gonna find out! There is a gay character coming up in one of their films, and I think Kevin will make that announcement, Im sure pretty soon." Though Marvel has already been teasing a gay character in The Eternals, it's curious that the Russo Brothers are teasing a big reveal of an existing character's sexuality. Some have already drawn comparisons to J.K. Rowling's Dumbledore, and the theories have been flying as expected. Valkyrie, Bucky, and Captain Marvel have been named as possible candidates, though should one decide to look to the deeper corners of the fan fiction community, the doors of possibility widen beyond the realm of possibility. [via] The drama is still on and popping between Wendy Williams and canceled husband, Kevin Hunter. New reports by The Blast indicated that Williams' estranged husband is looking for the show host to handle his legal fees. Precisely, documents obtained by the news outlet revealed that Hunter has agreed their marriage is over and of there being no hope for patching things up. Larry French/Getty Images He is now asking a court judge to order the television personality to cough up some cash to pay up his legal fees amidst their divorce case. This news comes shortly after Hunter also requested spousal and child support from Williams along with a split on the personal assets the two acquired during the marriage. Teresa Kroeger/Getty Images To note, Wendy Wiliams officially filed for divorce from Kevin Hunter and we have since documented the ensuing events. The latter occured after 21 years of marriage and partnership. The split occurred on an emotional, physical and professional level, as Wendy Williamsfired her ex-husband from his production role on her show, moved out of their home and found herself a new manager. One with whom she has allegedly seen dining and chatting recently. Thus far, The Blast only reports that Wendy is "seeking for their marital property to be equitably divided and establish a child support amount." [Via] Yungeen Ace has been making some serious waves over the past few months. As Florida maintains its position as breeding grounds for new talent in rap, Ace might be the next to breakout into the mainstream from the sunshine state. In the past few months, he's released a few new tracks following the release of his project, Life I'm Livin. Now, he's back with his latest single, "Message." Yungeen Ace has blessed his fans with his latest single, "Message." Throughout the record, Yungeen Ace lays it all down and speaks on the realities from the streets. His latest single follows the release of "So Long" which dropped last month. Keep your eyes peeled for more new music from Yungeen Ace. Peep his latest track below. Quotable Lyrics Hunnid shots up on they block when we slide through We got glocks, we got choppers, ARs too You tellin' 'round my n***as die, your n***as die too You love to play hide and seek, I bet we gon' find you As the lines of traditional health care delivery continue to blur, two major insurers have announced they will open their own clinics in the Houston area to ease access to care and cut costs. Partners in Primary Care, a national physician group and subsidiary of Humana, said Thursday it will open five full-service, senior-focused clinics for Medicare and Medicare Advantage Program patients in the Houston area by years end. Similarly, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas last month announced it would open six primary care clinics in Harris County in a partnership with Sanitas USA, an international health organization and primary care provider. RELATED: Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas, Sanitas USA to open 10 clinics by 2020 That partnership is backed by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas parent company, Health Care Service Corporation, which oversees divisions in Texas, Illinois, Montana, Oklahoma and New Mexico. Sanitas already has partnered with other Blue Cross insurers in Florida and New Jersey and reported reductions in cost and fewer members needing hospital care, the company said. The Humana clinics will open at locations in Downtown, Gulfgate, Jacinto City and Pasadena this summer, with an additional clinic opening in a still undetermined location in the fall, the insurer said. At our Partners in Primary care practices, physicians spend more time with their patients and our care teams focus on creating personalized care plans designed to help patients achieve their best possible health, said Renee Buckingham, president of Humanas Care Delivery Organization, in a statement.Senior-focused care goes well beyond treating you when youre sick, it can include helping patients with social, behavioral and financial needs as well. The Humana project will also collaborate with the University of Houston and its Humana Integrated Health System Sciences Institute as health care students help staff the clinics. The Blue Cross and Blue Shield-backed clinics will offer primary care, urgent care, lab and diagnostic imaging services, and wellness and disease management programs, the company said. The Harris County locations will be in Bellaire, Katy, Spring, northwest Houston, southeast Houston, and west Houston. An additional four locations will open in Dallas County. The centers are scheduled to open in January 2020. Our partnership with Sanitas is another example of collaborating with health care providers to deliver the best possible care and support to our members, said Dr. Dan McCoy, president of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas, in a statement. RELATED: Blue Cross, Texas A&M join forces to help rural Texans Vivian Ho, a health economist at Rice Universitys Baker Institute for Public Policy, said she is cautiously optimistic as traditional health care roles are reshuffled and experimentation blossoms across industries, especially if it helps lower costs and provides greater access to care. She says it is part of the gradual shift in the United States as the health care industry rethinks its traditional ways. RELATED: Walgreens to partner with physician group to open five clinics next to stores This type of one-stop-shopping coupling of provider and insurer comes as other unique partnerships are being launched. Last month, Walgreens and VillageMD, a large national network of primary care physicians, announced a collaboration to open large, state-of-the art clinics next to the drug stores at five Houston locations. President Donald Trumps threat this week to raise tariffs on some $200 billion worth of Chinese products is bad news for Texas sorghum growers whove seen a rebound in Chinese orders and the best planting soils in memory. Citing slow progress in trade talks with China, Trump on Sunday said his administration would boost tariffs currently set at 10% to 25% on Friday. Thats not what we wanted to hear if youre trying to get the sorghum market opened back up, said Calvin Trostle, a Lubbock-based agronomist with Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service. The United States is the worlds leading producer of sorghum, a cereal grain that is largely used as an animal feed. Texas farmers grow almost a third of the U.S. crop, and China is by far the largest market. In 2017, the Chinese imported about 4.76 million tons of sorghum, valued about $1.1 billion. On March 7, the National Sorghum Producers trumpeted a sale of 2.6 million bushels to China, Chinas first significant purchase of U.S. sorghum since February 2018. Despite Chinas existing tariffs on U.S. imports, the past few months have seen China-bound shiploads of sorghum setting out from Texas ports not at the levels before the tariff tit-for-tats, but enough to give sorghum growers hope they havent lost their largest market entirely. The way Sinton farmer Bobby Nedbalek sees it, the Chinese could only hold out so long from what has become a hot commodity. For one thing, its a base for baijiu, a clear, high-proof liquor that, thanks to Chinese consumption, is the worlds most popular spirit. For another, African swine flu has been wiping out hog farms and, with them, Chinas leading source of animal protein. Sorghum is a preferred feed for ducks, another favorite meat. On ExpressNews.com: Read about Chinese love of U.S. grain sorghum The United States leads the world in sorghum production, growing nearly triple whats produced in seventh-ranking China. U.S. producers of sorghum, which is not a genetically modified organism, or GMO, could benefit from Chinese concerns about genetically-engineered corn and soybeans. They really have to stick with grain sorghum for the time being because they want to use the GMO as leverage against corn prices, Nedbalek said. Thats really to our advantage in the grain sorghum world, because that means that theyre going to buy grain sorghum in some cases just to prove a point. But the U.S. sorghum outlook has dimmed amid the trade dispute. U.S. Department of Agricultures reports of planned acreage shows U.S. farmers intend to plant about 13% less sorghum this year over last. In Texas, planned sorghum production is down 16%. Trostle said current Texas sorghum prices are down about 20 percent from the premium they had been getting from Chinese buyers. Sorghum growers were among the earliest to feel the sting from the trade dispute. In what was widely viewed as retaliation against U.S. tariffs on Chinese solar panels and washing machines, Chinas Commerce Ministry in April 2018 enacted a 179% fee on sorghum imports following its determination the U.S. was dumping the commodity. China lifted that fee about a month later, then in June imposed a 25% tariff on sorghum and other U.S. commodities. On ExpressNews.com: Read about China's slapping 179 percent import fee on sorghum Tariffs on agricultural products such as the sorghum produced in states including Oklahoma, Kansas and Texas states Trumps carried in the 2016 presidential campaign were strategic. U.S. farmers knew they were pawns in the trade disputes, as did the Trump administration. In July, U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue announced he would tap a $12 billion fund to make up for farmers lost sales, without need for congressional approval. But that didnt help South Texas farmers against another foe: drought. Nedbalek said 2018 marked his worst harvest in more than 50 years of farming. He produced less than 200 pounds per acre, compared to an average of about 4,500 pounds. "We did not put a combine in the field, it was just so bad," he said. USDA data showed harvested sorghum acreage in 2018 down 35% in Matagorda County from the year before, 27% in Hidalgo County, 25% in Willacy County and 9.6% in Nedbaleks San Patricio County. So while farmers in northern parts of a sorghum belt that stretches from South Dakota down to Texas got trade-loss aid of 86 cents per bushel, many Coastal Bend and Rio Grande Valley farmers had nothing to sell in the first place and were therefore ineligible for relief. Its ironic and unfortunate that we also were victim of the weather, he said. That was a completely different problem... Those efforts did not reach out and help those of us who lost the crop. Crop insurance is meant to help with smaller losses, but not to make farmers whole following a total loss. Its like having liability insurance on your car only, he said. In other words, its not replacement costs. But thanks to abundant spring rain, things couldnt be more different this year, said Wayne Cleveland, executive director of the Texas Grain Sorghum Producers Association. The growing conditions and the condition of the grain sorghum are absolutely unbelievable right now, he said. Theres very little insect pressure, the weather is extremely favorable... so were a lot more optimistic on acres and volume than weve been in a long time. The decrease in the Chinese market, meanwhile, has forced marketers to find new markets. If you look at the trend lines, the grain markets have been damaged by this. Its really put a crimp in grain moving into China, Cleveland said. But you know other markets have picked up the pace. In sorghums case, Spain has bought close to around a million metric tons, which is huge. Lynn Brezosky is a San Antonio-based staff writer covering trade, agriculture and the economy. Read her on our free site, mySA.com, and on our subscriber site, ExpressNews.com. | lbrezosky@express-news.net | Twitter: @lbrezosky General Magic Sarah Kerruish and Matt Maudes documentary journeys back in time to chronicle a little-known Silicon Valley start-up called General Magic that developed early smartphone technology and other advancements far ahead of everyone else Unrated. Playing at 14 Pews, Houston. Hail Satan? This documentary covers the rise of the Satanic Temple, the controversial activist group that has gotten involved in free-speech and religious pluralism issues. Rated R. Playing at the Landmark River Oaks, Houston. The Hustle Anne Hathaway and Rebel Wilson are scam artists who team up to get back at all the guys who have done them wrong over the years. Its the first feature from TV director Chris Addison (Veep). Rated PG-13. Playing throughout Houston. Long Days Journey Into Night Having absolutely no connection to the Eugene ONeill work of the same name, Chinese director Bi Gans moody romantic drama is not the film to see if you want something fast-paced. Slow, deliberate and arty (it ends with a nearly hour long tracking shot), its one of the most talked-about art house films of 2019 so far. Unrated. Playing at AMC Studio 30, Houston. Maharshi Mahesh Babu stars in this Telugu-language action film from India. Unrated. Playing at Cinemark Memorial City, Houston. Pokemon Detective Pikachu A Pokemon character as a detective? Thats the premise of this childrens film starring Justice Smith, Bill Nighy, Ken Watanabe and Ryan Reynolds as the voice of Pikachu. EDM DJ Diplo also makes an appearance. Rated PG. Playing throughout Houston. Poms The comedy stars Diane Keaton, Jacki Weaver, Rhea Perlman and Pam Grier who lead a group of women who want to form a cheerleading squad at their retirement home. Rated PG-13. Playing throughout Houston. The Professor and the Madman Mel Gibson is the professor and Sean Penn is the madman in this historical drama about the man who compiled the first Oxford English dictionary and the mental patient who submitted 10,000 entries. Director Farhad Safinia is the creator of the TV series Boss. Unrated. Playing at Studio Movie Grill Pearland. Rafiki Banned in its home country of Kenya, the drama about two young Nairobi women who fall in love was the first Kenyan film to be shown at Cannes. Unrated. Playing at Museum of Fine Arts, Houston. Shadow Celebrated Chinese director Zhang Yimou, who made the Matt Damon misstep The Great Wall three years ago, returns with this gorgeously crafted film. Set in ancient China, it involves a kingdoms warrior who employs a look-alike to fight for him. Unrated. Playing at AMC Houston 8; AMC Studio 30, Houston. Student of the Year 2 The latest installment in the popular Indian Bollywood franchise about college students. Unrated. Playing at AMC Loews Fountains18, Stafford. Tolkien Sure, you know all the movies made from J.R.R. Tolkiens books The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings but what do you know about the man? Nicholas Hoult (The Favourite, Mad Max: Fury Road) portrays him in this biopic that also stars Lily Collins, Derek Jacobi and Colm Meaney. Rated PG-13. Playing throughout Houston. The White Crow Ralph Fiennes directs and acts in this drama based on ballet dancer Rudolf Nuryevs defection to the West. Shot in Serbia, Croatia, Russia and France, it features a cast of largely unknown European actors including Oleg Ivenko as Nuryev. Rated R. Playing at Regal Greenway Grand Palace 24, Houston. Wine Country Amy Poehler directs this comedy about a group of women who head to Napa to celebrate the 50th birthday of one of their party. But things dont go as planned. A bunch of SNL vets star including Tina Fey, Maya Rudolph, Rachel Dratch and Ana Gasteyer. Rated R. Playing on Netflix. The Texas Legislature is considering multiple bills right now that threaten the LBGT community. In particular, as a nurse and a transgender man, I am concerned about HB 3172, which would prevent the government from taking any action against people who discriminate against LGBT people because of a sincerely held religious belief, such as beliefs on marriage. The bill would affect health care facilities and private practice physicians. In other words, if a medical professional refused to treat me, the state wouldnt take away their license. When I say that I am a transgender man, I mean that when I was born, the doctors told my parents I was female, but since 2005, I have had the words to be able to express that I am male. I have been living as male publicly for three and a half years. I live in Amarillo which, by the standards of the Texas Panhandle, is a big city. In smaller communities and rural areas, theres often only one hospital and one physician. If HB 3172 passes, any and all health care professionals could refuse to care for me or any other LGBT person, even in a medical emergency such as a heart attack or stroke. To state the obvious: If I have to travel hours to reach a hospital that will even treat me, my odds of dying are much greater. Health care is not something that I take lightly. When I signed up to be a nurse, I signed up to do a hard job. Sometimes I take care of people that I dont want to. It is part of health care workers calling. Everyone deserves to be taken care of. Nobody deserves to be cast aside just because of who they are. This bill shouldnt even be a debate. We are talking about people. Living, breathing people who need taken care of. If you dont want to take care of me, you shouldnt be in health care. Erik Trason is a nurse in Amarillo. Bookmark Gray Matters. You're signing up to do a hard job. Correction: An earlier version of this story said that the bill was being considered in the Texas Senate. It is in the House. Jared Diamond writes about seven nations in his new book, Upheaval: Turning Points for Nations in Crisis. Hes visited all seven, and lived in six of them, so his study is a mix of research, observation and interaction. Thematically, the book nestles comfortably with Diamonds Guns, Germs and Steel and Collapse - in which he studied at the rise and fall of civilizations. With this book Diamond identifies a national crisis in each of the nations histories and observes how each emerged from the crisis through change and adaptation, all through the prism of how an individual would cycle through 12 stages of a personal crisis - acknowledgment, acceptance, etc. . His view ranges from Indonesia to Chile, Finland to Japan but the United States isnt among the nations profiled, though each chapter bears content that rings familiar to those of us living here, now. As has been his method in the past, Diamond presents dense content in a digestible manner. He writes like a favored professor lectures, with self-contained chapters mapped out in their titles and subheads. The approach isnt terribly surprising because at 81, Diamond remains an active professor at the University of California, Los Angeles despite having written best-selling books earned a MacArthur Foundation Fellowship, a Pulitzer and other awards. Jared Diamond When: 7:30 p.m. Sunday Where: Congregation Emanu El, 1500 Sunset Details: $45-$150; 800-514-3849, progressiveforumhouston.org See More Collapse His interest in the mechanics of our world - its past, its present and how its past creates its present - is too persistent to yield to retirement. Diamond returns to Houstons Progressive Forum Sunday to speak. Prior to his appearance he spoke about his new book, and how some of its lessons apply to our present. Q: You set up all these stories of crisis and resolution. And in each one the resolution requires compromise, which is in short supply in our country right now. A: Thats right, we have these case studies in Chile and Indonesia. I teach for several years working my way up to a book. And the story of a nation my undergrads find most upsetting is Chile. It was a democracy that ended up in a sadistic dictatorship. They worry if democracy could end in Chile, maybe it could in the U.S. Maybe not in the same way, maybe not with a military coup. But with new government restrictions, and efforts to prevent voting. Q: Do you feel the sorts of crises referenced in the book are necessary? Are there instances where change came about without such a tear? A: Its true that nations, just like people, tend not to prepare for crises. Theres a saying quoted in the book by Samuel Johnson: Depend on it, sir, when a man knows he is to be hanged in a fortnight, it concentrates his mind wonderfully. Thats a good quote to make the point, whether its in our personal lives or the lives of nations. When you see a crisis looming, it attracts attention. But countries and people dont deal with crises in advance. There are some exceptions. The origins of the formation of the European Union in the 1950s was an example of leaders taking action to bring Europe together to avoid World War III. Thats acting in advance of a crisis. But more often its like our personal lives, where many of us ignore marriages and screw up until a partner says theyre filing for divorce. Q: One of the things you touch on in the recovery process for the nations in the book is a strong sense of national identity. Even in the case of some nations that are fairly young. Im interested to hear your thoughts on Americas national identity. Because I feel like theres a significant dispute going on right now about what that identity is. A: There are still elements of a national identity despite the dissension and polarization today. There are still things the vast majority of Americans agree on. We agree that we are a democracy. We agree were the strongest and best nation in the world. We agree that we are protected on all four borders, not like Germany and Finland and other nations that were open to invasion. We agree that we have this ideal of socio-economic mobility. We share the dream of rags to riches, even though theres substantial (naivete) about it. We agree on the importance of education even though we disagree about how much money to put into it, and how to spend that money. Q: Can you talk about how that identity has changed over the past, say, century? A: These identities do evolve. Think about Britain in the 50s and 60s. A big part of the identity was that the British stood alone against Hitler, surviving the Battle of Britain. If we can do that, we can do anything. That was part of the British identity. Now think about the American identity. I was born in 1937. I remember the American identity after World War II, which was that we had won a virtuous war. It was a virtuous war against bad guys. But that changed with conflicts pursued by the American government the 60s and 70s. Voters believed that was not virtuous but rather an evil war. And voters prevailed. So national identities do change. Q: And what about today? Its interesting: you contrast Germany, which offered penance after the second World War, with Japan, which didnt do so in the same way. Accountability varies from place to place. A: Correct, the culture of a country is important in that, and can make it easier or harder to solve a problem. As Americans for years we saw problems as being there to solve - throughout history. Thats in our favor. But in our disfavor is a reluctance to learn from other countries. Theres a substantial lack of honesty in the discussion about major American problems of today. A refusal of the federal government to take responsibility, blaming things on Canada and Mexico. For heavens sake, Canada and Mexico wont end America. America will. Q: You present a pretty harrowing vision for what could happen if enough people give up on that rags to riches dream. If chaos truly takes root, wealth may not provide security anymore. A: Well, for me living in Los Angeles, twice in my lifetime there have been major riots. Rodney King and Watts. In both cases, the rioters stayed in central L.A., and it didnt spill into Beverly Hills. During the Watts riots, there was concern rioters would spread into Beverly Hills. And police would put up strips of yellow plastic tape. I dont need to tell you, that has zero protective value. If things ever get really bad in an urban environment, nobody will stop for police tape. Q: Ill be honest. The book really brought me down. The financial reckoning feels real and near. That said, you end the book on something of a hopeful note. A: Well, take a look again at the last chapter, and imagine the last six pages cut off. Thats what the original draft looked like. And it had a pretty pessimistic ending. But I was alerted by friends to a world track record of solving major problems. There are a lot of different complex problems that the world has dealt with over the past 40, 50 years that gives me grounds for cautious optimism. andrew.dansby@chron.com WASHINGTON The House Judiciary Committee voted Wednesday to recommend that the House hold Attorney General William P. Barr in contempt of Congress for failing to turn over Robert Muellers unredacted report, hours after President Donald Trump asserted executive privilege to shield the full report and underlying evidence from Congress. The committees 24-16 contempt vote, taken after hours of debate over the future of American democracy, was the first official action to punish a government official in the standoff over the Mueller report. The Justice Department decried the move as an unnecessary and intended designed to stoke a fight. After the vote, the Judiciary Committee chairman, Rep. Jerrold Nadler, D-N.Y., swatted away questions about possible impeachment, but added, We are now in a constitutional crisis. The contempt vote raised the stakes in the increasingly tense battle over evidence and witnesses as Democrats investigate Trump over behavior detailed by Mueller, the special counsel. By the days end, it seemed all but inevitable that the competing claims would have to be settled in the nations courts rather than on Capitol Hill. Our fight is not just about the Mueller Report although we must have access to the Mueller report, Nadler said during a debate. Our fight is about defending the rights of Congress, as an independent branch, to hold the president, any president, accountable, The Justice Department, the White House and House Republicans lined up to contest that claim, shooting back that Democrats were the ones abusing their powers to manufacture a crisis. In a statement, a spokeswoman for the Justice Department, Kerri Kupec, deplored the contempt vote as politically motivated and unnecessary, and the two sides traded blame over who had cut off weeks of negotiations over a possible compromise. Regrettably, Chairman Nadlers actions have prematurely terminated the accommodation process and forced the president to assert executive privilege to preserve the status quo, Kupec said. No one, including Chairman Nadler and his committee, will force the Department of Justice to break the law. Though Trump has repeatedly tried to withhold information from Congress, and pledged to object to all House subpoenas, the executive privilege assertion is his first use of the secrecy powers as president. The Justice Department, which asked the president to step in, described the assertion as a protective measure that would give Trump time to fully review the materials before making a final determination about executive privilege. But the timing signaled that the White House was eager for a fight. The American people see through Chairman Nadlers desperate ploy to distract from the presidents historically successful agenda and our booming economy, said the White House press secretary, Sarah Huckabee Sanders. It was not immediately clear when the full House would vote, and the intervening period could allow Barr time to negotiate. Nadler said he expected a House vote rapidly. After a contempt vote, the House was likely to file a lawsuit seeking to enforce their subpoena, but the ensuing legal process could take years, effectively stalling Democrats quest. Passage of such a resolution would be only the second time in American history that the nations top law enforcement official is found to be in contempt of Congress. The Judiciary Committee was not the only House panel locked in conflict over the material. During the contempt hearing on Wednesday, the Intelligence Committee quietly sent the Justice Department its own subpoena for the full Mueller report and underlying evidence, as well as any counterintelligence and foreign intelligence material generated during the special counsel investigation. The panel likewise blamed the department for failing to accommodate its bipartisan oversight interest in the material and argued that as the body that oversees the intelligence community, it had special authorities to view the secretive material. The law is on our side, said the committees chairman, Rep. Adam B. Schiff of California. The committees efforts to obtain necessary documents to do our constitutionally-mandated oversight work will not be obstructed. Barr voluntarily released a redacted version of the special counsels 448-page report voluntarily last month, which concluded that despite ample efforts by the Kremlin, the Trump campaign did not conspire with Russia to undermine the 2016 presidential election. Mueller also laid out at least 10 instances of possible obstruction of justice, and said he could not make a traditional judgment because of various legal constraints. But Democrats say Barrs version is not good enough, and they have accused the attorney general of stonewalling a legitimate request for material they need to carry out an investigation into possible obstruction of justice and abuse of power by Trump. The Democrats request includes secretive grand jury information and other evidence. The committees 27-page contempt report lays out the committees need for the report and offers an accounting of attempts to get Barr to share the materials first voluntarily and then under subpoena. The Justice Department had tried to stave off the committee vote, offering to lawmakers some concessions around a less redacted version of the Mueller report that Democrats ultimately deemed insufficient. The Justice Department had other objections to the subpoena. Compliance would require the department to violate the law, court rules, and court orders as well as grand jury secrecy rules, a Justice Department official, Stephen E. Boyd, wrote. Republicans in the Judiciary Committee hearing room returned to that point again and again as they accused Democrats of putting Barr in an untenable situation of choosing between their subpoena and the law. But Democrats said they did not expect Barr to break the law and unilaterally release grand jury secrets, but rather to join them in petitioning a judge to unseal material for the grand jury for committee use. Nadler said after the vote that Democrats intended to go to the judge on their own authority. Democrats view the presidents privilege claim as bunk, since much of the report and evidence have either been released publicly or shared with lawyers in the special counsel case. Still, Trumps invoking of privilege for the first time as president could tie up the material in court and significantly complicate Democrats efforts to call other witnesses. Nadler said Wednesday it could delay a potential hearing with Mueller himself in the Judiciary Committee. And it could also limit testimony by Donald McGahn, a former White House counsel and key witness in the special counsels investigation, scheduled under subpoena for May 21. Democrats frustration in the hearing room was clear. I can only conclude that the president now seeks to take a wrecking ball to the Constitution of the United States of America, said Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee of Texas. Republicans rose one after another to defend the attorney general and urge the Democrats to turn their investigative focus to the origins of what they see as a special counsel investigation cooked up to smear the president. Rep. Jim Sensenbrenner, R-Wis., who was one of the managers of President Bill Clintons impeachment, criticized Democrats for lending support to a character assassination squad running around this town sullying innocent people. There is little precedent for holding an attorney general, or any Cabinet-level official, in contempt. House Republicans did it for the first time in 2012, when they held Attorney General Eric H. Holder Jr. in contempt in connection with requests for information about the botched Fast and Furious gun trafficking investigation. Republicans frequently cited that case on Wednesday in an effort to paint Democrats as unreasonable and impatient. They had waited hundreds of days before escalating their fight over documents to a contempt citation, they said. Democrats waited just a few weeks in the case of Barr. Why this rush? asked Rep. Doug Collins of Georgia, the top Republican on the committee. Without any valid legislative or administrative reason, we can only assume Democrats, led by the chairman, have resolved to sully Bill Barrs good name and reputation. The example is a potentially cautionary one for both sides. Despite President Barack Obamas assertion of executive privilege over the material in questions, House lawmakers ultimately prevailed in court, forcing the administration to hand over the evidence. But the process took years to play out and could have taken longer if the Obama administration had appealed a courts decision. In this case, a contempt citation does not guarantee an outcome Democrats want. While defying a congressional subpoena is technically a misdemeanor crime, it is up to the Justice Department to decide whether or not to prosecute. And though Democrats have mused in recent weeks about the authority of the House to apply punishments, including fines and detention, those outcomes have little modern precedent and are unlikely to actually be pursued. Instead, a contempt citation would effectively push the dispute into the courts, where a judge could decide whether to force the administration to hand over the material. But that process would be lengthy, especially with Democrats likely to turn to the courts in a range of other disputes over Trumps tax returns and over other potential witnesses to the obstruction investigation. Democrats were equally apocalyptic in their language. Rep. Ted Deutch, D-Fla., called the administrations stonewalling the definition of a constitutional crisis. This article originally appeared in The New York Times After stronger-than-expected rain storms submerged streets and swamped homes in Kingwood, Jay Dabbracio woke before dawn Wednesday to begin removing soaked furniture and drywall from his home in the Sherwood Trails subdivision. His sister Ashley lent a hand. He estimated that repairs would cost about $40,000. Hurricane Harvey had left him dry, unlike many neighbors. His luck ran out Tuesday. To be honest, we dont have flood insurance, Dabbracio said. I thought wed be good since we didnt flood during Harvey. Apparently not. Dabbracio was among the thousands of Houston-area residents whose lives were disrupted by thunderstorms that drenched the area Tuesday evening inundating streets, flooding homes, schools and businesses, and stranding motorists and schoolchildren for hours. The rainfall was particularly severe in suburban areas such as Kingwood and Sugar Land, with Kingwood alone receiving 10 inches of rain over 18 hours. Although officials stressed that the storm was not comparable to Hurricane Harvey, which flooded more than 200,000 homes in the Houston area, it may have felt that way for communities still recovering from Hurricane Harvey or those that had been spared by that natural disaster. And while a relatively dry Wednesday gave the regions bayous precious hours to drain, the break will likely be short-lived. Forecasters warned that more storms could hit the Houston area as early as Thursday and through the weekend, raising the prospect of additional flooding given the saturated ground. Were going to have widespread 5 to 8 inches of rain through Saturday with isolated amounts of 9 to 10 inches, said Jeff Lindner, Harris Countys meteorologist. Those are very concerning amounts. There is the threat the next three days of home and structure flooding. While the Atlantic hurricane season doesnt begin until June 1, Lindner described this weeks line of storms as common for May along the Texas Gulf Coast. In fact, Houston-area residents weathered major flooding events on consecutive Memorial Days in 2015 and 2016 and during the so-called Tax Day floods of April 2016. Lindner urged residents to monitor weather forecasts, and said the county is prepared to staff its emergency operations center around-the-clock if necessary. Most of Harris County can handle about 3 to 4 inches of rain in a 3- to 6-hour period, Lindner said. Anything over that, and were going to have to be worried about creeks and bayous going over their banks. The threat of storms and additional flooding prompted the New Caney Independent School District to cancel classes at all schools Thursday and Friday. Students in that district and in Cleveland had to spend part of Tuesday night at their campuses after flooding prevented buses from leaving. Heavy rain elsewhere in the state caused flash flooding in numerous parts of northern, central and western Texas, causing one death in Austin. In Liberty County, an elderly man slipped or fell into a lake amid Tuesdays stormy weather, though its unclear if his death was weather-related. In Baytown, heavy rain filled manholes and caused an overflow in the citys sanitary sewer system. Cleanup activities were underway Wednesday, and the public was advised to contact the city to determine if water was safe. Pearland reported similar issues as an estimated 654,000 gallons overflowed into a drainage ditch to Clear Creek, near Barry Rose and Pearland Parkway. Residents were urged to avoid contact with the water. Fort Bend soaked In Fort Bend County, County Judge KP George issued a disaster declaration for the county for flash flooding and potential Brazos River flooding. This weather situation is a serious threat to our residents, George said in a written statement. This flash flooding is contributing to the raised Brazos River levels, which pose a threat later this week. We are not out of the woods yet. Many Rosenberg residents reported being unable to leave their homes Tuesday night because of floodwaters. By Wednesday morning, the storm had moved on but left brimming retention ponds, muddy roads and soggy fields. The city of Rosenberg received several reports of vehicles pushing water over curbs and into garages, but had yet to receive reports of home flooding, city spokesman Lorenzo Lerma said. Nearly a dozen cars were stranded in roads or on medians near Reading Street. Jennifer Manus, 43, waited for a tow around 9:50 a.m. Wednesday near a subdivision entrance close to Winter Crescent Drive in Richmond. She had abandoned her car early Tuesday evening, realizing she couldnt safely make it through the water. Victoria ONeal, 39, decided to travel at her mothers house for the night Tuesday after picking up her two children from school and being told by her husband that their home smelled like smoke. As water splashed on the roof of her SUV, her vehicles computer system began to malfunction, and she too pulled over on Winter Crescent. Wearing boots, ONeal began walking with her worried, backpack-clad children through the pouring rain, she said. Its hard to walk because its so muddy and there was so much rain, she said. We were getting stuck. The water was initially ankle-deep, but ONeal noticed it suddenly covering about half of her 8-year-old daughters leg. Terrified of being washed away, ONeal knocked on door after door until a woman and her grandmother gave them a place to stay for the night. Residents also waded through thigh-deep water with improvised walking sticks past abandoned cars in the Colony Bend neighborhood of Sugar Land Wednesday morning. Neighbors said no homes flooded, though high water swamped cars and stranded many motorists. I really wasnt expecting it to flood this bad. This was quicker than Harvey, said Carl Carson. It was all the way up to past my mailbox last night. Floodwater lingered in the neighborhood Wednesday morning, leading residents to worry that it was not draining. As much as 9 inches of rain fell in Sugar Land, where Mayor Jim Zimmerman said in a Facebook video that the gates for the levies in the Brazos River had been closed due to high water levels. Henan Issas father was on his hands and knees in the back of her car, using a wet-dry vacuum to suck up water that had seeped in overnight. An hour later, Carson emptied a tank full of the muddy water. Taxi driver Mohamad Shans, who lives in the Galleria area, said Wednesday morning that he had not slept overnight. I brought someone from the airport to Sugar Land at 1 a.m., and we got stuck, Shans said. He pulled his car up onto the median at the intersection of Sweetwater Boulevard and Austin Parkway. His passenger got out and walked home. Stay Informed Text "Houston" to 77453 to receive HoustonChronicle.com alerts on your phone. See More Collapse High water vehicles patrolled the streets of Sugar Land, transporting people who were stranded overnight to drier areas like First Colony Mall. Hsien-Min and Julie Yeh got stuck on their way home from work Tuesday night. The couple ended up spending the night with their 20-month-old son Winston in their car in the parking lot of St. Laurence Catholic Church. Wednesday morning, they got out of their car and made the nearly one-mile trek home by foot, with Winston strapped to Hsien-Mins chest. Kingwood deja vu The storms were an unwelcome reminder of Harvey for some. In Kingwood, a flood-prone suburb about 30 miles north of downtown Houston, thousands of homes flooded as a result of Harvey and Kingwood High School suffered $100 million in damage. The school, which reopened last year after massive renovations, dealt with minor flooding following storms Friday night. Meanwhile, sand deposits that the 2017 storm washed into the San Jacinto River have left the area even more vulnerable to flooding. Kingwood resident Eloise Hilaridess journey home from Denver on Tuesday night featured one challenge after another. Her plane had landed, but a lightning advisory trapped it on the tarmac for half an hour. The Uber trip afterward was zigzag-shaped, ending with the driver taking refuge in a Shell gas station due to high water and major traffic. Hilarides got to her Hamblen Road dwelling in the end after a motorist assisted her. She spent the night with Maybe, her gingerbread-colored mutt, without power. Water was shut off in the morning after a sinkhole just a few doors down appeared. Its been an adventure, I guess, Hilarides said. Houston Police Department Officer Felipe Flores was on-site to make sure no one would fall into the sinkhole in Kingwood near the 1600 block of Hamblen Road. He said there is a possibility that it will expand, but either way the road is impassable for the time being. He added that it was a long night for all of us here in Houston. Officials were bracing for more potential flooding issues this weekend. We're going to be in an unsettled weather pattern between now into Saturday and Sunday, Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner said. We are watching the situation very, very carefully. Staff writers Nicole Hensley, Massarah Mikati, Nguyen Le, Samantha Ketterer and the Associated Press contributed reporting. zach.despart@chron.com www.twitter.com/zachdespart Sand dunes, not 70 miles of levees and gates, would flank flood gates at the mouth of Galveston Bay under a new plan the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is studying to protect the Houston-Galveston region from storm surge. The proposal is the latest version of the Coastal Spine, a $31 billion barrier the Corps selected last year a decade after Hurricane Ike, the cyclone that spurred the discussion as its preferred method for mitigating the catastrophic fallout of a strong storm hitting Galveston Bay. The Corps shift is a response to concerns from residents on Bolivar peninsula and Galveston Island, who found the agencys original proposal to build levees on the barrier islands disruptive. Once we started getting those comments, it became very clear, Corps Project Manager Kelly Burks-Copes said, noting that dunes were always an option. We dropped that barrier solution and formulated a new solution, which is a dune-and-beach system along the front of Bolivar and along the front of Galveston below the seawall. That was welcome news to Bolivar resident Margaret Lindlow. I didnt really care for that barrier wall running down the middle of the peninsula, she said. I know something has to be done, and if we have to put some kind of barrier there, then I think it should be at the beach. The proposal which has not yet shifted the projects cost or its 2035-at-the-earliest completion date would have the Corps bolster the existing dunes by plugging beach access roads to create a continuous barrier, and, in some cases, restoring access with arched walkways or roadways over top of the added sand. The agency also has scrapped a single 25-foot-high gate at the mouth of Galveston Bay for two smaller gates, Burks-Copes said. That approach would be cheaper and allow ship traffic to continue if one gate malfunctioned. Experts from England, the Netherlands, Russia and elsewhere are helping redesign the gates to lessen the constriction of water flow at the mouth of the bay, she added, a key concern of environmental groups worried about the effect on marine life. What theyve done on the beach makes sense, its a good way to think about things, said Bob Stokes of the Galveston Bay Foundation, adding that the initial gate design would have restricted water flow by 27 percent. I hope theyre looking for improvements on the flood gates, too and theyve told us they are. Swapping 17- to 20-foot inland levees for 8- to 13-foot-high coastal dunes increases the risk that a storm could overtop them, Corps officials said, but they added that dozens of computer-generated hurricane models of varying paths and intensities must be virtually slammed into the shore before that risk can be quantified. If calculations suggest the proposal provides too little protection, Burks-Copes said, projections could be run again using larger dunes. Models show flood gates alone would repel 60% of the water associated with a storm surge, Burks-Copes said. In addition, Corps planning chief Brian Harper said the current dune proposal would drop the water level even at the northern end of the bay by a projected two feet during a storm. Were acknowledging that with the dune systems well probably have to tolerate a little bit more remaining risk than we would have had with the levee segments wed originally suggested but, perhaps, tolerating that additional risk is worth avoiding the impacts we were seeing with those segments, Harper said. We believe its tolerable, because we have the volume of the bay to work with to help us manage some of that surge that would potentially overflow the dunes. Drawing on dunes to bolster the regions defenses mirrors what Texas A&M Galveston scientist Bill Merrell proposed in his Ike Dike idea shortly after that storm. Merrell said his models showed 17-foot dunes provided robust protection, though he said the Corps may be measuring its 13-foot estimate from the beach rather than from sea level, as he did. Even if theyre over-topped they provide quite a bit of protection. Our models have always shown that, Merrell said. The really big (storms), its prohibitively expensive to protect against anyhow. I think theyre looking at the right sorts of issues now and trying to design a better barrier. Jim Blackburn, an environmental attorney and co-director of Rice Universitys Severe Storm Prediction, Education and Evacuation from Disasters (SSPEED) Center, also praised the Corps for embracing dunes as a defense. In a paper he authored this week, Blackburn said his models show the original 17-foot levees would not have prevented flooding in the Houston Ship Channel, Bayport Industrial District and residential areas on the western shore of the bay if that area were hit by a Category 3 storm and an accompanying 25-foot storm surge, risking the release of toxins from ruptured petrochemical tanks. Blackburns report said his and his Rice colleagues Galveston Bay Park Plan would protect those areas in such a storm, as it would provide a 25-foot-high wall across the middle of the bay. The idea was not selected by the Corps for further study. Corps officials said blocking the surge at the coast would help the entire region, including the ship channel, but acknowledged that a hurricane entering the bay still could produce a storm surge of up to five feet from its winds alone, causing flooding on the western shore. We do understand that there is residual risk in the bay and up the ship channel with the system were recommending, Harper said. The park plan was developed with a worst possible storm in mind, and that storm could happen. There is enough volume in the bay to create those water surface elevations. Burks-Copes said the Corps views Blackburns idea as complementary to its plan. Blackburn has urged supporters to attend a May 15 meeting Harris County Commissioner Adrian Garcia has called on the topic of storm surge, stressing a point noted in his report this week: the material produced when the Port of Houston dredges the ship channel as it hopes to do within a few years could produce a historic piggyback opportunity to use the dredged material in the construction of a mid-bay berm. Stay Informed Text "Houston" to 77453 to receive HoustonChronicle.com alerts on your phone. See More Collapse Port of Houston Authority Executive Director Roger Guenther echoed that, saying, The opportunity of the projects to be complementary of one another I think is intriguing. Blackburn said the point of his paper was to question whether the region had the proper urgency on the issue and to ensure the strategic importance of the ship channel was not overlooked. He also stressed that the working relationship among those studying the issue has never been better. You dont go fishing with one lure in your box, he said. We have to be opportunistic, and its probably going to take all of our efforts together to solve this problem Garcia, who took office at the start of the year, said his purpose in calling the meeting was to force the issue of coastal protection. Im not an engineer, so Im not about to try to argue one application versus the other, but what I do know is weve got to get something done, Garcia said. Mother Nature is not going to be kind to us and give us many more passes. mike.morris@chron.com A divided city council on Wednesday approved a $650,000 contract aimed at boosting the number of Houston residents who participate in the 2020 census, a measure that generated partisan debate in which some council members worried the outreach would have a liberal bent. Under the contract, Lopez Negrete Communications a firm specializing in Hispanic marketing will conduct outreach intended to improve response rates in the 2020 national survey. Council members passed the deal on an 11-6 vote, with most of the councils conservative cohort voting against it. The hour-long debate centered around allegations from a handful of council members who said subcontracting companies or partnering organizations may conduct census outreach in a way that is slanted toward Democrats or liberals. Mayor Sylvester Turner repeatedly dismissed the idea, telling council members the contract has no partisan bent at all, and would bring in more money to Houston, because the federal government distributes funds to cities and other local communities based on census data. The mayor has said a signficant undercount could impact city services, with each uncounted person costing the city about $1,500 in federal funding. In 2018, the Census Bureau posted a slow population growth estimate for Houston, creating a $17 million hole in the city budget. At-Large Councilman Mike Knox clashed with Turner over the deal, expressing concern that the main firm would partner with organizations that have unknown missions and agendas. For instance, Knox said council could not prevent organizations from conducting voter registration efforts amid census outreach. As part of the contract, Lopez Negrete will work with two subcontractors: The Black Sheep Agency, which will conduct campaigns and grassroots work, and Knudson LP, which is tasked with public and government relations. The firms also will partner with a host of local organizations that already perform census outreach, Turner said. The mayor told reporters he would like to partner with outside groups across the political spectrum, and said the councils partisan discussion got a little bit off-track today. "Any group that's interested in achieving the goal of identifying every person in our city is welcome to the table," Turner said. Despite Turners assurances that the effort would not favor one political party, a handful of council members remained skeptical. District E Councilman Dave Martin said that a list of partnering organizations he had seen did not include any right-leaning groups. I appreciate everybody saying there's no political spin, Martin said. But the reality is, there is a political spin to everything we do in the United States, more so today than there ever was before. In the end, Council members Michael Kubosh, Steve Le, Brenda Stardig, Greg Travis, Knox and Martin voted against the contract. Stardig and a few others said they were concerned about the cost of the contract. The $650,000 cost only covers the first phase of the deal; Turner said he will ask council to consider the contracts second phase next fiscal year, at a cost of $872,000. Turner said he split the contract so council could evaluate Lopez Negretes efforts after the first phase. The initial period largely will lay the groundwork for actual outreach, according to Turner. "By breaking it up into two parts, the system is much more accountable, the mayor said. Because you're certainly not going to go to Phase II if you're not confident with what was achieved in Phase I." More Information Text "Houston" to 77453 to receive HoustonChronicle.com alerts on your phone. See More Collapse District I Councilman Robert Gallegos, a vocal supporter of the contract, criticized his colleagues for opposing it, saying outreach is needed to counteract the impact of a possible census citizenship question. "Residents in my district are fearful of filling out that census," said Gallegos, whose southeast Houston district is overwhelmingly Hispanic. He also said it was frightening that Knox took exception to the deal over concerns that those conducting census outreach may also register people to vote. "That right there, I just thought it was a joke, Gallegos said after the meeting. He said Houston would risk losing social programs and political representation if the citys population is under-counted. District H Councilwoman Karla Cisneros said the Census Bureau will conduct its survey online for the first time this year, contending that the city should work to increase its count because of the potential confusion. This isn't even early other cities have gotten further ahead than we have, she said. It is important that we do things differently. We need to be partnering with anyone who's got a computer lab. jasper.scherer@chron.com A Houston man was acquitted Wednesday of murder in the death of his pregnant ex-girlfriend during a mid-day car chase two years ago. Attorneys for Jeffree Burks, 21, called the case one of mistaken identity and said that Burks wasnt behind the gun on Feb. 22, 2017, when Amber Flores was shot to death. A Harris County jury passed down the not guilty verdict after what attorneys called an emotional trial. Afterward, prosecutors dismissed a murder charge against Flores unborn child and an aggravated assault charge against Flores boyfriend, who was in the car at the time. I think relief is the word, Burks attorney, Brad Loper, said. Our client has waited for up to two years for his day in court. DESPERATE SEARCH FOR MALEAH: Crews resume search for missing 4-year-old Maleah Davis Flores was shot in the back while driving in a car on the southeast side of Houston on Feb. 22, 2017. Her boyfriend, Dejaven Pratt, was driving them to his home and almost hit a light-colored sport utility vehicle southbound on Calhoun, police said at the time. The driver of the SUV apparently flashed a pistol, and the SUV gave chase, Pratt said. He saw a man he knew as Flores ex-boyfriend lean out of the back passenger window and fire a rifle at them, hitting their car several times. STAY INFORMED: Get all the news you need to know to start your day, delivered to your inbox Pratt and Flores, who was 19, were shot in the back. The car crashed into a fence and hit a tree in the 5000 block of Van Fleet. The boyfriend identified Burks as the shooter. Burks admitted to police that he knew Flores was pregnant, but always denied being involved, Loper said. We ultimately will never know what happened, he said. But the jury agrees with us that the evidence did not demonstrate beyond a reasonable doubt that Mr. Burks was guilty. Burks attorneys will move to have the murder charge expunged from his record. The Houston Chronicle has reached out to the Harris County District Attorneys Office for comment. The Texas House on Thursday approved legislation that would limit fees telecommunication and cable companies pay cities to use their rights of way, likely opening up a new spending gap of at least $12 million two days after Mayor Sylvester Turner laid out his proposed budget for the upcoming fiscal year. Senate Bill 1152, authored by state Sen. Kelly Hancock, R-North Richland Hills, passed the House on a 92-50 vote on the third and final reading Thursday. The legislation, which had received Senate approval early last month, heads back to the upper chamber, where lawmakers will decide whether to approve the House version. The measure would eliminate what cable companies and some lawmakers say is an outdated double tax levied on companies that transmit cable and phone services over the same lines. The bill would eliminate the lesser of the two charges, starting next January. Opponents say the bill amounts to a gift for large telecom firms, which would not be required to pass the savings on to consumers because the state is barred from regulating cable rates. Turner had urged lawmakers to oppose the measure, saying it would deliver a financial hit to Houston. Those who back the bill say companies still would pay millions for the remaining charge, arguing that cities would lose only a small portion of their revenue. The House companion bills author, state Rep. Dade Phelan, noted Wednesday that only one other state Oregon still charges both fees. Turner blasted lawmakers in a statement Thursday, accusing them of attempting to unconstitutionally take the value of Houstons right-of-way through the bill. He also lauded state Rep. Harold Dutton, D-Houston, for attempting to stop the legislation through a procedural maneuver. Members of City Council joined me in warning legislators the effect this bill would have on Houstons budget, Turner said. Houstonians will feel the consequences of this, through a reduction of millions of dollars in revenue. Unfortunately, this is another over-reach of the state that limits local control and works to the detriment of the citys ability to serve its citizens. Later Thursday, a spokesperson said the mayor still was working out how the city would address new budget gap if the bill becomes law. Bill Kelly, the citys director of government relations, said in a tweet late Wednesday that the bill likely would cause many city employees to be laid off, nowhere more so than Houston, suggesting that more layoffs could occur. Turner on Tuesday released his budget proposal for the 2020 fiscal year, in which the city would close a $179 million budget shortfall by drawing from its reserves, eliminating vacant positions and laying off about 300 firefighters, fire cadets and municipal employees. As part of the proposal, Turners administration estimated the city would take in $34.7 million in telephone franchise fees and $19.1 million under the cable franchise tax. During a city budget committee meeting Wednesday, city Finance Director Tantri Emo confirmed the administrations estimates did not factor in the potential loss of revenue if the bill passed. By pulling from its reserves, the city would see its general fund balance drop to about $171 million, under Turners budget proposal. The total represents about 7.9 percent of the citys general fund budget, minus debt service payments. City policy requires the fund balance to remain at 7.5 percent of the budget, putting the balance about $9 million above the threshold. A Legislative Budget Board analysis determined that Houston would take in $17.1 million to $27.5 million less revenue under the bill. Estimates for other cities include $9.2 million in Dallas, $7.9 million in San Antonio and $6.3 million in Austin. An updated estimate provided by the city Thursday projected it would receive $12.6 million to $24.4 million less revenue during the 2020 fiscal year, which begins July 1. Last month, the city ended its relationship with lobbying firm HillCo Partners after learning that it also represents cable and telecom companies that were pushing for the legislation. When the bill came to the floor Wednesday, a few House members pressed Phelan, R-Beaumont, to explain what would compel companies to pass the savings on to consumers, instead of pocketing the money themselves. Phelan said that among the cable providers he has spoken with, more than 90 percent itemize fees on customers cable bills, which could prevent them from hiding the savings and keeping fees the same. State Rep. Ramon Romero, D-Fort Worth, told Phelan that customers should expect to see a line item removed because that fee will no longer be there. Correct, Phelan said. That is the intent of this legislation. I wouldnt bring it otherwise. jasper.scherer@chron.com Barely a week after Dexter Darnell Johnson won an unexpected last-minute stay of execution, a Harris County judge on Wednesday made the uncommon decision to refuse the state's request for another death date for the convicted killer. The brain-damaged Houston man linked to five slayings during a month-long 2006 crime spree was originally scheduled to die May 2, though he narrowly avoided execution when a federal judge last month decided a newly appointed legal team needed more time. But on Wednesday the case devolved into a strained courtroom battle between barristers over who could be a part of the legal proceeding. Local prosecutors sought to keep federal public defenders out of the state court proceedings, after the federal legal team spent weeks accusing local defense lawyer Patrick McCann of shoddy lawyering and trying to kick him off the case. After listening to nearly an hour of debate, instead of approving the states request for an Aug. 15 execution date, Judge Greg Glass opted to revisit the matter after an upcoming federal court hearing next month. Mr. Johnson is a bad man, there is no doubt about that, Glass said. But in my opinion resetting this until after the June 20 date in federal court would not be an undue extension. Despite the tension, it was all a sharp departure from the last time the trial court set an execution date in the case, during a December hearing that turned into an emotionally charged sideshow with Johnsons family crying and praying in the courtroom as his victims relatives shouted angrily at the chained prisoner, who said he understood their animosity but still denied his guilt. This time, Johnson did not appear in court. The dispute over lawyering started earlier this year, when Johnson complained to a federal court about McCanns work. The court didnt immediately remove the Houston lawyer from the case but agreed that he couldnt reasonably investigate when his own work earlier in the case was insufficient. So the court appointed Jeremy Schepers, a federal defender from Dallas, to take a look at McCanns past work. At the same time, McCann continued his own work on the case, filing a clemency petition as well as an appeal focused on claims that Johnson was too intellectually disabled to execute. The Texas Court of Criminal Appeals denied that claim, but a federal court stayed the execution so Schepers could have more time to investigate McCanns lawyering earlier in the case. But since it was a federal court that appointed Schepers, Harris County prosecutor Josh Reiss accused the North Texas lawyer of trying to shoehorn his way into the state court proceedings. The irony of this is unmistakable, Reiss said. Having complained of McCanns conflicts representing Johnson in both forums, it now seeks the same footing. In the course of a testy back-and-forth, Schepers said he didnt want to get into a ping-pong match and accused Reiss of repeatedly misstating the record. Ultimately, Glass let Schepers stay in court to make his case and decided to hold another hearing in late June, just after the federal court date. Now 30, Johnson was sentenced to die for a 2006 carjacking that left 23-year-old Maria Aparece and 17-year-old Huy Ngo dead. That June, the high school drop-out and four accomplices came across the young couple sitting and chatting in Aparece's Toyota outside Ngo's home. Johnson and two others threatened them with a pistol and a shotgun, then drove the pair around Houston in Aparece's car, stealing her cash and credit cards. Behind them, two other accomplices followed in their own car. Stay Informed Text "Houston" to 77453 to receive HoustonChronicle.com alerts on your phone. See More Collapse Eventually, the carjacking crew pulled over and, according to trial testimony, Johnson raped Aparece in the backseat while the others forced Ngo listen while they taunted him. Then, Johnson shot Ngo in the head before murdering Aparece. At trial, Johnson's defense team argued that it was someone else who walked the couple into the woods and fired the fatal shot and Johnson has repeatedly maintained his innocence in the slayings. But according to prosecutors, the double killing was just one of many crimes that Johnson pulled off during a month-long spree of violence that spring and summer. During the punishment phase of trial, the court heard about a string of other killings, including the slaying of a 60-year-old man cleaning his barbecue pit at a local car wash, the robbery and murder of a man standing at a pay phone, the slaying of a man sitting inside his car on Annunciation Street and a string of other robberies. keri.blakinger@chron.com A prominent Catholic priest, who was suspended amid an investigation into at least two allegations of child sex abuse, has asked to step down, a parish memo on Wednesday said. John Keller, longtime pastor of Prince of Peace Catholic Community, requested retirement, for age and medical reasons, according to an email to parishioners. His health concerns and the current process of the review board, which is ongoing and without update, have made him absent from our parish. Keller, 70, already was suspended from his priestly duties on Jan. 31, hours before the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston made public that he was under investigation for alleged child sexual abuse. He was allowed to perform Mass at the Tomball Parkway church that morning. "The Archdiocese is reviewing the matter and has no comment at this time," a spokeswoman said in response to Keller's resignation request. The archdiocese said in February that it had forwarded at least two complaints about Keller to the Houston Police Departments Special Victims Division. Police officials then said investigators opened a case into a priest but would not identify him. Authorities could not be reached to say whether the investigation remains open. The allegations against Keller date back 25 to 40 years. The first known allegation was reported in 2001 by a woman who accused Keller of engaging in an inappropriate relationship with her ninth-grade son. At the time, the archdiocese said the claim by the then-adult son could not be verified. Another man said he came forward to church leaders in December with a claim of sexual abuse against the pastor, according to a CBS News report. In the months leading up to Kellers removal, the priest was increasingly absent because of medical issues. He did not attend a confirmation ceremony last November because of his health, Cardinal Daniel DiNardo said at the time. Stay Informed Text "Houston" to 77453 to receive HoustonChronicle.com alerts on your phone. See More Collapse Auxillary Bishop George Sheltz has been filling in as the parish administrator since Kellers removal from ministry in January. The memo said Sheltz would remain in that position as the pastors retirement request is processed. Nearly 300 Roman Catholic priests across Texas have been identified as "credibly accused" of sexually abusing children over the last 80 years. Keller and former Conroe priest Manuel La Rosa-Lopez, who last week was indicted on two counts of indecency with a child, were listed as being under investigation. nicole.hensley@chron.com AUSTIN A band of women making up Texas first LBGTQ caucus on Thursday killed a religious freedom bill inspired by San Antonio City Councils refusal to allow the Chick-fil-A fast food chain to open in its airport due to a legacy of anti-LGBTQ behavior. The bill was one of many that have failed to pass in the Texas House in recent days as lawmakers barreled toward a series of critical deadlines to advance legislation before adjourning later this month. This year was supposed to be the year we were going to be focused as one body on public education, said Rep. Celia Israel, D-Austin, a member of the caucus. We didnt need to have a fight on a social issue, especially this issue. We never do. Rep. Matt Krause, a Fort Worth Republican sponsoring the bill, called the measures failure a setback. The fact that the government can penalize someone just for who they associate with or who they donate to is something we should all be concerned about, he said. Its very disappointing, but well try to find another way to have that very important conversation on the House floor. The bill would have prohibited governments from denying contracts, grants and other agreements to a person or business based on any relationship with a religious organization. The LBGTQ caucus used a procedural move to kill the bill late Thursday, taking the divisive social issue out of consideration. Rep. Erin Zwiener, a Driftwood Democrat and one of five members of the LGBTQ caucus, called the bill spit in the face on Twitter early Thursday. We are here. We are in the room with them, 5 out of 150 members, and theyre determined to send the message that our humanity is less important than theirs. The measure stems from the City Councils decision in March to deny Chick-fil-A a company known for supporting groups that oppose same-sex marriage from locating inside the San Antonio International Airport. Since then, Republican Attorney General Ken Paxton has launched an investigation into the matter as a potential First Amendment violation. Texas Take: Get political headlines from across the state sent directly to your inbox The bill is just one of dozens that has failed in the waning days of this legislative session. Another bill that died would have made it harder for third-party candidates to run for office in a move that would help safeguard seats for Republicans who are bracing for tough elections in 2020. The bill would have increased the threshold for third parties to get on the ballot. Under the plan, a third-party candidate would have had to earn 10 percent of the vote in at least one statewide election for the party to automatically claim a spot on the ballot in the next election. That rate is currently 5 percent, although no candidates met that benchmark in the 2018 election. Increasing the threshold is like moving the goal post for groups such as the Libertarian Party or the Green Party, said Rep. Travis Clardy, R-Nacogdoches, who opposed the bill, saying it would marginalize and rile up third-party candidates. The bills sponsor, Rep. Mayes Middleton, R-Wallisville, decided not to push after it became clear he lacked the votes among fellow Republicans who feared backlash. Thursday was the last day for bills to go for an initial vote on the House floor, meaning any legislation that failed to receive a passing vote by midnight will die, barring extraordinary measures. Bills that appear to have no future in the Legislature include: Increasing financial penalties for polluters After three major chemical fires broke out in the middle of session, environmental advocates had high hopes that certain bills looking to address accountability. Those included House Bill 3035, authored by state Rep. Erin Zweiner, D-Driftwood, would ensure pollution penalties are at least equal to the economic benefit of noncompliance. Banning abortions upon fetal heartbeat The controversial House Bill 1500, a proposal by Rep. Briscoe Cain, R-Deer Park, which would ban abortions once a fetus heartbeat is detected, is one of many being proposed across the country. Fifty-seven representatives had signed onto the bill, which would have banned most abortions in the state. The so-called heartbeat bills have been passed in six states, with Georgia being the latest. Reviving the Texas A&M vs. UT football game House Bill 412 by Lyle Larson, R-San Antonio, would have set an annual, nonconference football game between the University of Texas at Austin and Texas A&M University during the regular season. The bill never made it out of committee. Making it a crime to lie to get a gun House Bill 95 by Austin Democrats Gina Hinojosa and Vikki Goodwin would have made it a crime for a person who is prohibited by state or federal law from acquiring a firearm to knowingly attempt to doing so. The bill also would have required licensed firearm dealers to notify the Department of Public Safety when someone tried to illegally obtain a firearm. The department would have then been required to investigate. Allowing some 17-year-olds to vote House Bill 512 by state Rep. Donna Howard would allow 17-year-olds to vote in some primary elections if they are going to turn 18 before the general election. The 17-year-olds would only be allowed to vote for state and county offices not in federal races, such as U.S. congressional or presidential elections. Neither Howards bill nor its companion, Senate Bill 55 by state Sen. Judith Zaffirini, D-Laredo, received committee hearings. Howard said the legislation failed to pass in 2017 and 2015 because of pushback in committee and from some county elections officials. Changing the definition of marriage House Bill 978 by state Rep. Michelle Beckley, D-Carrollton, would amend the Texas Family Code to use gender-neutral language when discussing marriage changing references to man and woman or husband and wife to two individuals or spouses. The bill would also amend the Health and Safety Code to remove provisions regarding the criminality or unacceptability of homosexual conduct. Beckleys bill died in the House Committee on Judiciary and Civil Jurisprudence. Its companion, Senate Bill 153 by Jose Rodriguez, D-El Paso, did not receive a committee hearing. Both bills received heavy pushback from religious advocacy groups who say the legislation amounts to an attack on religious freedom. Sami Sparber and Jeremy Wallace contributed to this report. The following editorial appeared in Wednesday's Japan News-Yomiuri: - - - It can be described as a military provocation to sway the United States, which is urging complete denuclearization of North Korea. The administration of U.S. President Donald Trump has to deal with the matter with a firm attitude, without being misled by North Korea's tactics. North Korea has announced that it held drills to fire "tactical guided weapons" and "long-range rocket launchers" toward the Sea of Japan. It was reported that North Korean leader Kim Jong Un oversaw the drills. This cannot be overlooked, as it was an act to raise military tensions in the region. Experts have said the "guided weapons" may have been a new type of short-range ballistic missile. North Korea's firing of ballistic missiles is banned under United Nations Security Council sanctions resolutions. Countries concerned must work together quickly to elucidate the whole picture. The U.S.-North Korea summit talks in February ended without an agreement as North Korea sought lifting of sanctions while the United States urged complete denuclearization. Pyongyang has continued to place the blame on Washington. Kim appears to be using a phased escalation of military provocations to try to press the U.S. president to hold a third round of summit talks. In the military deal concluded along with the summit talks between North and South Korea last September, the two countries agreed "to cease all hostile acts against each other." The latest drills clearly run against this agreement, which aims to ease tensions. 'Seize every opportunity' Saying the flight paths were short, U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo emphasized that the projectiles "didn't present a threat to the United States, or to South Korea or Japan." But given the fact that North Korea can attack South Korea with short-range weapons, the remarks are questionable. Trump also displayed an optimistic stance over reaching an agreement for denuclearization, tweeting that Kim "does not want to break his promise to me." The issue is that North Korea continues to flaunt its military power even after the United States and South Korea canceled the annual large-scale joint military exercises that they have held in spring. The United States and South Korea are urged to maintain the allies' rapid response capabilities so that deterrence against North Korea will not decline. Trump and Prime Minister Shinzo Abe held phone talks to coordinate responses to North Korea. Japan and the United States must strengthen their cooperation to tenaciously seek North Korea abandoning its nuclear and ballistic missile programs. After the phone talks, Abe expressed his intention to realize Japan-North Korea summit talks without prerequisites, saying, "I will try to seize every opportunity." An intention to meet directly is understandable for moving forward on the issue of the abductions of Japanese by North Korea. The leaders of the United States, China, South Korea and Russia have already met with Kim. Amid the fact that progress toward denuclearization has stagnated, it is not easy to improve Japan-North Korea relations. But ways to move toward dialogue must be explored. The Texas Legislature did something unusual and excellent this session by passing two rival education bills that each would add billions of dollars to public schools over the next two years. But the two bills are very different, and neither adequately meets the challenge Texas faces in finally investing what is needed in its public schools. Fortunately they can be improved by conference committee members who will now try to settle on a compromise measure to send to the governor for his signature. They should take the best of each version and create a smart, big-hearted bill that is worthy of our state and its students. To do so, the committee should accept the Senates more ambitious plan to spend $12 billion over the next two years. That money comes from $9 billion in new revenue available thanks to our steadily growing economy, plus about $3 billion from the Tax Reduction and Excellent in Education fund, which will be backed by diverting existing oil and gas severance taxes, money from the Permanent School Fund and anticipated sales tax collections from online purchases. The House proposes to spend only the $9 billion. The House, however, has a better handle on how to spend the new money and the committee should take note. The Senate would spend the extra $3 billion on larger, across-the-board raises of $5,000 for teachers and librarians, while the House bill gives more moderate raises to all school employees and gives districts extra money to use on raises at district leaders discretion. In addition, the Senate would use more of the money than the House would to make up for lost revenue at the local level. Both bills would reduce property taxes paid to local districts, but the Senate version would spend more to pay for a larger tax break. We hope the committee will take that extra $3 billion baked into the Senate bill and spend it on our schools. That would be money in addition to the more than $6 billion over two years that both bills propose be used on raises, a long-overdue increase in the per-student formula funding all districts rely on, and on paying for all-day pre-K for disadvantaged students. Instead of using the money for steeper property tax relief and higher raises for teachers, regardless of their performance, the money could be used to improve our schools everywhere. Theres nothing unnecessary or lavish or even terribly adequate about the new spending on schools. The grand total isnt even based on a careful assessment of what exactly it costs to educate a Texas public school student these days. But, it appears to be the best lawmakers can do at this point so, well take it. Still, a nagging concern remains: the largest shortcoming of both bills is that the $9 billion is one-time money that will carry the state for the next two years. If the economy fails to grow, or if it shrinks, the Legislature will be left scrambling to make up the difference or be forced to take back this sessions largess. The Legislature is putting an awful lot of their chips on the Permian Basin, said Dick Lavine, an analyst for the Center for Public Policy Priorities. And while it may be worth tapping the rainy day fund this time, the measure doesnt provide a way to restore that money. The only way to guarantee school funding can stick, and hopefully grow to address the needs of Texas students, is to increase revenue. And we dont mean by some misguided, regressive sales tax proposal, which the Senate mercifully blocked this week. Money for education, and other public needs, can come from taxing services such as lawyers and real estate brokers ending tax exemptions that are no longer needed or reforming incentives that are being abused. Meanwhile, property tax relief can come from something as simple as increasing the homestead exemption and indexing it to property value growth so that it keeps up with raising property prices, experts said. New revenue should be the long-term goal, but at this point, a $12 billion bill that spends the extra $3 billion more wisely is a promising next step. 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. 8 Amazing Web Resources Designed For Musicians As social media promotion becomes increasingly difficult for artists to to do for free, band websites have now become one the most important marketing resources you have. That said, maintaining and customizing a website can be touch trickier than social media platforms luckily there are a number of great resources out there designed specifically to help artists do just that. ________________________________ Guest post by Patrick McGuire of Soundfly's Flypaper With social media promotion becoming trickier and harder to do for free, band websites are more important now than ever. From selling merch with no middleman to promoting a new release and upping your SEO game, personalized music websitesare crucial in helping get the job done right. But how exactly do you personalize a website? Social media platforms are great for promotion because theyre so easy to use, but websites are much tricker to customize and update. To help you navigate the vast world of music-related website resources out there, we picked out eight of our favorite web tools that are made specifically for musicians, so you know youre in good hands with each of them. 1. Bandzoogle If youre like me and want to quickly maintain and update a solid website for your band so you can get back to making music ASAP, check out Bandzoogle. Theyre a website-building platform built by and for musicians. For a low subscription fee, they offer tools to help musicians build great websites in minutes. They also give artists access to commission-free merch, ticket, and download sales through their online store feature. In fact, we like this service so much that we partnered with them to make a free online course called How to Create a Killer Musician Website. Check it out! 2. Spotify Artist Insights Streaming platforms have long been a source of controversy because of how little they pay artists, but some offer other advantages. Spotifys Artist Insights feature is a powerful analytics tool designed to help musicians understand whos listening to their music the most over the platform. It tracks listener information like gender, age, location, and through what source someone discovered your music. How does this relate to your own website? By discovering detailed information about your listeners, you can tailor the content on your website to better reach the parts of your audience that are most engaged and likely to buy your merch, see your live shows, and check out your new releases. 3. Bandsintown Bandsintown offers a set of high-powered tools aimed at helping musicians promote shows, engage fans, and upload videos. Their events widget is designed to sync up show listing information across the web, so adding it to your site will help your fans stay up to date with accurate information about your performances. Show announcements can be automated and sent out through their platform, which is also a big plus. But Bandsintowns biggest advantage comes with their comprehensive show listing page, which shows fans which artists are playing shows near them, in case you wanted to pitch your band for a support spot! 4. GigMailz GigMailz is similar to Mailchimp, but is geared towards musicians and other entertainers. For a low monthly subscription, users get services like a 45-minute design consultation, unlimited lists, and analytics. By adding the GigMailz widget to your website, you can bring new fans into the fold with show and music release updates, sales on merch, and other band happenings, with a few clicks. 5. Songkick If youre looking for an easy way to post show information in one place and have it show up all over the internet, look no further than Songkicks Tourbox API feature. It functions through a widget that you can add to your website and across your social media accounts, as well as a mass automated updater that reaches Spotify, Shazam, Bandcamp, Pandora, Hype Machine, and loads of other sites. Fans with the Songkick app installed on their phones will receive notifications when you announce shows near their location. 6. Bandtraq Bandtraq, another company formed by musicians, creates digital tools to help artists and fans alike. The musician-oriented tools they offer include a handy customizable widget that lets artists present social media feeds, videos, music, and more, all in one place. The unique Bandlink feature helps bands design smart landing pages to promote and present new releases through a single short link, which is ideal for rolling out new music over a website in a quick and easy way. 7. SoundCloud Youre probably well aware of SoundCloud by now, but its widget feature is worth mentioning. Because SoundCloud is completely free and typically reliable, its the perfect place to host music over your site. Yes, youll lose some royalty money by not linking up to your Spotify or Apple Music account, but going with SoundCloud is the best option because it doesnt force those visiting your site to sign up with yet another service. Plus, its essentially social media for track releases. 8. Metablocks Widgets For musicians looking to integrate sophisticated retail capabilities with their sites, Metablocks is a good option. Through their widgets, you can sell music, accept email addresses, and even integrate Spotifys Pre-Save campaigns. Theyre able to link with hundreds of music retailers, and offer analytics in real-time about whos clicking, when, and why. Bonus: Google Analytics And for a bonus, because its not strictly designed for musicians, Google Analytics is worth checking out if youre obsessed with learning more about the fans who visit your website. This platform is designed to help businesses (if you sell music, then youre a business) better understand and serve their customers, and that makes it perfect for you. Share on: PledgeMusic To Enter Administration As Sale Falls Through A prospective sale of PledgeMusic has fallen through, and the company will enter administration, the UK equivalent of bankruptcy, sources with direct knowledge of the situation tell Hypebot. UK based corporate advisory FRP will be nominated to administer a court directed sale of all assets, which would be used to pay artists, merchant bank Sword, Rowe & Company and other creditors. [MORE: Ex-PledgeMusic CEO Benji Rogers Pens Letter Of Apology As Crowdfunder Files For Bankruptcy] PledgeMusic recently sold subsidiary Noisetrade to Paste Media for an undisclosed sum. The company suspended all crowdfunding campaigns on its site on February 4th, leaving hundreds of musicians owed between between $1 and $3 million. How much money will now go to pay off artists is dependent on the sales of the assets, with any secured creditors at least partially paid before any payments artists. Variety had some numbers from artists who had contacted them about how much theyre owed. David Archuleta: $22,000 Seth Walker: $21,257 Emily Kinney: $21,000 Bernie Torme: 16,000 Fastball: $11,130.75 Jennifer Thomas: just under $11,000 Jesus Jones: more than $5k, less than 10, says rep Iain Charlie Faye: $5,538 Seth Walker: Were owed $19,157 MORE: Ex-PledgeMusic CEO Benji Rogers Pens Letter Of Apology As Crowdfunder Files For Bankruptcy Share on: American soybean growers have urged the White House to rapidly conclude the trade talks with China, in response to the announcement from President Donald Trump on Sunday that he would raise tariffs on imports from China. A farmer holds soybean from the 2018 harvest, on May 5, 2019, at her farm in Scribber, Nebraska. Among the top 15 US states exporting to China, many have been hit hard by China's retaliatory tariffs on soy, pork or in the aviation sector. [Photo: AFP/Johannes Eisele] President Trump's announcement, which was made on Twitter, said the 10 percent tariff currently on 200 billion U.S. dollars' worth of goods from China would rise to 25 percent on May 10. He also announced plans to tax an additional 325 billion U.S. dollars' worth of imports with a 25 percent tariff. In response, the American Soybean Association released a statement on Tuesday in which the association's president, Davie Stephens, described the new tariff plan as "a predicament for soy growers". Stephens said that "farmers are in a desperate situation" and their "patience is wearing thin" as the negotiations drag on. "We need a positive resolution of this ongoing tariff dispute, not further escalation of tensions," said Stephens. The association's statement said the trade dispute with China had led to a fall in American soybean exports to the world's largest soybean customer. China imposed a 25 percent tariff on American soybeans last July in response to the introduction of new tariffs by the United States on 34 billion dollars' worth of imports from China. The soybean growers urged the Trump administration to postpone the planned expansion of the tariffs and to reach a deal with China as soon as possible that would include lifting the Section 301 tariffs in exchange for China removing its retaliatory tariff on American soybeans. "We need the China market reopened to U.S. soybean exports within weeks, not months or longer." said Stephens. On Wednesday, China said it would respond with countermeasures if the United States goes ahead with its plan to raise tariffs. The Ministry of Commerce expressed regret over the planned move by the United States, saying that an escalation in the trade frictions goes against the interests of the two sides and the world at large. This latest flare up in the trade dispute comes as China's Vice Premier Liu He heads to Washington at the invitation of U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin for the 11th round of negotiations, which will be held on Thursday and Friday. Assistant Secretary of State for Consular Affairs Carl Risch Travels to San Diego, California, and Tijuana, Mexico San Diego, California - Assistant Secretary of State for Consular Affairs Carl Risch is traveling May 5-7 to San Diego, California and Tijuana, Mexico. In San Diego, he will visit the U.S. passport agency and then meet with foreign government counterparts from Australia, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom at the annual Five Nations meeting on passport operations. In Tijuana, the Assistant Secretary will review consular operations at U.S. Consulate General Tijuana and meet with interagency partners and members of the international consular corps to underscore our deep and sustained commitment to the protection of U.S. citizens overseas. Harry's started out trying to disrupt the legacy razor business. Now it'll join one. The six-year-old New York City-based grooming company, founded by Andy Katz-Mayfield and Warby Parker co-founder Jeff Raider, is set to announce on Thursday that it will be acquired by one of its biggest competitors. In a deal valued at $1.37 billion, according to The New York Times, the Shelton, Connecticut-based Edgewell Personal Care, which is the parent company of Schick, will acquire the razor company and put Katz-Mayfield and Raider in charge of U.S. operations. The move is the latest in a string of men's grooming acquisitions, which was touched off in 2016 with Unilever's $1 billion purchase of Michael Dubin's Venice, California-based razor subscription service, Dollar Shave Club. Tristan Walker's Palo Alto, California-based Walker & Company Brands, maker of Bevel men's grooming products and Form beauty products, sold to Procter & Gamble in 2018 for between $20 million and $40 million. Katz-Mayfield and Raider co-founded Harry's in 2013 as a direct-to-consumer subscription company, selling razors and shaving products through the mail. Over the years, it added in-store displays with brick-and-mortar retailers including Target and Walmart. It also purchased a factory in Germany in 2014. And in 2018 it added a women's grooming line called Flamingo. The transaction is expected to close at the end of the first quarter of 2020, with Katz-Mayfield and Raider becoming co-presidents of Edgewell's U.S. operations. Edgewell's CEO told The New York Times that his company "lacked a way to communicate with the consumer," and the acquisition will help bring Edgewell's marketing up to speed. For Harry's, the co-founders said the deal is the best way to grow the company, which was previously considering an IPO. Early on a Saturday morning last September -- at 2:52 a.m., in fact -- Congress passed a massive, sweeping piece law that made a lot of big changes to the airline industry. Officially, the law reauthorized the Federal Aviation Administration. But it also did a lot of other wide-ranging things -- from prohibiting passengers from using cell phones during flights, to letting pregnant women to board airplanes first, and even establishing an "office of spaceports" within the FAA. I wrote about all the changes here. But I also wrote about the giant change that didn't happen. Because after intense lobbying by the big airlines (including American, Delta and United), a provision to limit the change fees and baggage fees that airlines can charge to "reasonable and proportional" amounts somehow disappeared. Now, we've learned exactly how much money the airlines made as a result -- and why they truly wanted to avoid that restriction -- courtesy of the U.S. Bureau of Transportation Statistics. During 2018, the total baggage fees charged by U.S. carriers added up to $4.9 billion -- and fully $2.9 billion of it was attributable to the big three legacy airlines: American, United, and Delta. Here's the list: American: $1.22 billion United: $889 million Delta: $788 million Spirit: $638 million Frontier: $366 million JetBlue: $321 million Alaska: $280 million Allegiant: $220 million Hawaiian: $85 million Southwest: $50 million Sun Country: $36 million Change fees are also another $2.9 million or so on top of it, by the way. A few fun data points in there: Southwest stands out among U.S. airlines by bundling bag fees into the ticket price, at least for the first two checked bags. Hence, the "bags fly free" motto. But they still managed to bring in $50 million in bag fees. I guess a lot of people bring a third bag. And Spirit is interesting -- and lives up to its nickel and diming reputation despite coming in fourth, because it has only 29 million passengers a year, compared to American's 203 million. Do some math, and this means Spirit averaged $22 in bag fees per passenger; American averaged $6 per passenger. A decade ago, in 2008, the airlines were in a very different place -- and so were their baggage fee revenues, which were about $1.5 billion in total. Pushing to charge more for bags doesn't just add dollars to the airlines' bottom lines, although it certainly does that. And it doesn't just result in fuel savings from some passengers choosing to carry less aboard, although it does that too. But it also helps the airlines save on taxes, because while airline tickets are subject to a 7.5 percent federal excise tax, fees for things like checking bags are not. I find all this fascinating -- both for the reasons that many readers seem to be especially interested in the airline industry, but also because of the lesson that it suggests for almost any business. Your most lucrative add-on might be something that you can unbundled from what you normally think you sell. For airlines, it's not just the seats. It's the baggage fees and the change fees. And oh, also the frequent flyer programs. Yes, the Microsoft community are a bunch of nerds. My firm is a Microsoft partner. So we should know. But Microsoft loves these people. And can you blame them? They're the ones that develop tools and technologies that help them - and us - make more money. During Microsofts Build 2019 conference, which wrapped up yesterday and which attracted approximately 15,000 of the company's finest programmers, developers, partners and code-builders from around the world, Microsoft announced a bunch of super-nerdy programming tools that will not interest most business owners. But the company also introduced three new things should interest business owners a lot. Power BI and Power Apps The first has to do with reporting and apps. Microsoft's reporting tool is called Power BI (for Business Intelligence) and - when placed in the right hands (translation: a trained expert that will cost you money) - the tool can be used to extract data from just about any database out there and present it in a visually appealing way on just about any device. Power BI is one of many already-existing Power Apps that are available for businesses to use to enhance their existing systems. Power BI and Power Apps are both getting an upgrade and here's what it means for your business: reports and visualized data as well as any other "Power App" that you have written will be able to be embedded in your existing applications. Users won't have to switch out of one program to see data from another. Your information will be there, with real time updates, in one place. A new set of complementary tools will help streamline the packaging, development, and testing of these applications. Power BI, like many other analytics applications can provide enormous benefits for businesses of all sizes, says Stacy Nethercoat, VP of Cloud Solutions at Tech Data, a Microsoft distributor and tech company. Many companies are interested in hearing more ways that they can take better advantage of the data theyre collecting and these tools should go a long way towards helping Microsoft partners create better solutions for them. These tools are written in such a way that developer no longer have to create their own code - a major challenge in the past. They're "components" and "extensions." That means that they're easily upgraded, integrated and supported by Microsoft. But you'll still want a developer to help you. That's why Microsoft is also making these tools available for the nearly 3,000 co-selling independent software vendors that have created over $5 billion in revenue-generating applications on its Azure platform. With Power BI and Power Apps, there's really no type of solution that can't be created for your business, as long as you're willing to invest in a developer who can access these ready-made tools to do it for you. Internal Search Much has been made about searching across the Internet. But what about in your own company? Where is that quote that Daniel wrote back in 2016? Anyone remember what was said to that customer from Wisconsin last year? How did we solve that problem last month again? You and I are generating reams of electronic data in our businesses thanks to the proliferation of messaging and documents. How can we get access to that stuff? Microsoft's answer is its own, new searching tool. Called Microsoft Search it is available as a search bar on its popular applications like SharePoint and Office but will soon be more noticeable on your desktop and mobile devices. The search tool has been enhanced to include more personalized results (Who did I contact last? What document did I work on related to this issue?). In addition, the search application is using AI to try and better guess what your employees are looking for based on fragmented requests like "some customer in Idaho" or "Patrick on the third floor." Third parties will also be given access to incorporate these tools in their applications too. Yes, there are security issues, particularly among larger enterprises. But Nethercoat believes that for smaller companies that have less complexity and lower risk, this type of searching capability could provide big productivity gains. Despite the inherent security risks, getting information into the hands of employees faster is a good thing, she says. All of this translates into more productivity for your employees. We all get used to using the tools we've used before and we're not interested in learning ones. But encouraging your people to take a few moments and get comfortable with Microsoft's search tool could have enormous benefits. Ideas In Word Most of us can use help with our writing, particularly in a professional environment. New enhancements to Word are designed to help us solve that challenge. It's called Ideas in Word and it's a tool that will - in real time- check grammar and style using AI technology including natural language processing and machine learning. Ideas in Word will be included as part of Office 365 so that, once configured, your users will start receiving suggestions that will be designed to help improve their document's readability. Some of these features exist already but require the user to ask for synonyms or respond to a highlighted grammar issue. Ideas in Word will go one step further, offering these comments interactively while suggesting alternate ways to write phrases or spell words. And in case your people want to argue, the tool will also provide justifications for its suggestions. If that's not enough, the tool will also give you a heads up as to how much time it will take for a reader to go through your document and even help identify words are phrases that may be politically incorrect or sensitive. Not surprisingly, programming tools and customization features will also be included. Your job is to make sure your version of Office 365 has been upgraded and configured to make this accessible. Then, if necessary, get some training for your employees to help them embrace the new features. Some people are not going to want to take advice from a bot. But that's not the future, particularly when that bot's advice can help improve the quality of the communications both internally and whats going out your door. *** Please know I am literally scratching the surface of all the announcements Microsoft made at this conference. That's because most of the stuff was about programming interfaces, cloud platforms like Azure, Internet of Things plug-ins, AI, robotics and even a quantum computing development kit and oh my God those nerds are going to create a robot army and take over the world someday. But in the meantime, I'll just encourage my small and mid-sized clients to enjoy some of these real-life tools from Microsoft that are available right now. Before becoming a student at Harvard Business School, Henri Pierre-Jacques had worked at ICV Partners, one of the few black-owned private equity firms in the country. In 2018, as recruiters descended on campus, Pierre-Jacques came to a sudden realization: He didn't want to work for a non-minority-owned private equity fund. That left him with very few choices. So instead of taking a job working for someone else, Pierre-Jacques ultimately decided to dedicate himself to a side business he had started. In 2015, along with friends and former colleagues Jarrid Tingle and Brandon Bryant, he launched Harlem Capital Partners, an angel investing syndicate based in New York City. Having more black investors accessible might give rise to more black entrepreneurs, they figured, so by early 2017 the group had pivoted to invest in people of color and women. They also added John Henry, an entrepreneur and the host of the Viceland show Hustle, to the team. The partners realized they had only so much capital they could personally invest. With Pierre-Jacques and Tingle still enrolled at Harvard--from which they'll graduate this spring--they started raising outside money and committed themselves to investing full-time. By April 2019, they had closed on $7.5 million of what they hope will be a $25 million fund. But Harlem Capital's founders have a much bigger goal for the future: to change the face of entrepreneurship by investing in 1,000 black, Latino, and women entrepreneurs within 20 years. Three years after their current fund closes, they hope to be operating a $100 million fund, and in 10 years, a billion-dollar fund. In 2018, women CEOs got only 2.3 percent of venture capital. People of color got even less. Harlem Capital put together a report that identified 105 entrepreneurs of color who had raised at least $1 million, for a total of $2.7 billion. But those raises took place over a number of years, and venture capital is a $100 billion industry, making the percentages tiny. Depending on your point of view, that means Harlem Capital is either up against some intractable societal forces, or is primed to take advantage of some low-hanging fruit. Other funds, including the Intel Capital Diversity Fund and Rethink Impact, also see an opportunity in going after these underserved groups of entrepreneurs. Either way, Harlem Capital's founders believe that diversifying the faces of fast-growth entrepreneurship means diversifying the people who invest in entrepreneurs. "Until you have women and minorities creating their own funds," says Pierre-Jacques, "we don't believe real change will happen any time soon." No entrepreneurial experience necessary. Among Harlem Capital's founders, only Henry has experience as an entrepreneur. But it's not an issue that concerns them. "Everyone says you should be an operator first, to be an investor," says Pierre-Jacques. "Think of all the billionaire investors. None of them have ever been operators. For some reason, people think venture capital is a unique asset class." That's a viewpoint that seems to resonate well with prospective limited partners, many of whom also come from the world of finance. "You don't have to have been in that operator seat," says one of Harlem Capital's LPs, who declined to be named in this article. "They'll rely on a good network of people, and Jarrid and Henri and their partners are surrounding themselves with the best in the industry." As for the entrepreneurs leading Harlem Capital's portfolio companies, Pierre-Jacques says, "they honestly don't care" about operational experience. It certainly wasn't an issue for Claire Coder, the founder of Aunt Flow, which became Harlem Capital's first portfolio company in January. Aunt Flow provides workplaces and institutions with tampons and menstrual pads that are provided to women for free, rather than through coin-operated dispensers that often are empty. So far, Aunt Flow is one of four Harlem Capital companies. Coder says that when she was closing her $1.5 million round, Harlem Capital, which took the lead, "was very helpful in making sure I didn't get screwed over as a founder." Her lawyer had drafted the term sheet, and the other investors were fine with it. It was Harlem Capital, she says, that told her, "I don't know if you read this way you should have. Let's make some updates to make sure your company is in a good position for this round and the next." It was Harlem Capital that insisted she pay herself, that she put in place a plan to work out three times a week and see friends once a week. "It wasn't, 'Here's some money, bye!'" she says. "It was a holistic improvement. They asked me if I was improving as a human." Coder says she has met plenty of would-be investors who talk the talk about women entrepreneurs or about diversity. But, she says, "What I love about Harlem Capital is they are really committed." EXPLORE MORE Rising Stars COMPANIES Raising VAT on solar panels from 5 per cent to 20 risks making their installation entirely uneconomic, experts have warned. Although parliament declared a climate emergency earlier this month, rates for fossil fuels including gas and coal will remain at 5 per cent, while materials for some renewables will see tax rises of 15 per cent. These rates will apply from 1 October and follow a consultation by HMRC which closed last week. The VAT hike on materials for solar panels and also battery storage, came as the governments official advisory body on climate change recommended the UK reaches net zero fossil fuel emissions by 2050, Eight countries in the European Union have called on the bloc to implement similar goals. Solar Technology in the UK Show all 7 1 /7 Solar Technology in the UK Solar Technology in the UK Roofs tiled with photovoltaic solar energy panels receive maximum sunlight exposure in Dyfi Eco Park, Machynlleth, Wales. These panels are made up of photovoltaic (PV) cells. PV cells convert sunlight into electrical energy Getty Solar Technology in the UK Jake Beautyman installs solar panels on a barn roof on Grange farm, near Balcombe. The installation is part of an initiative by local residents in Balcombe to encourage more people to use renewable energy rather than energy based on carbon such as fracking. The initaitive is called Repowerbalcombe and is supported by the charity 10:10 Getty Solar Technology in the UK The Solar array of community project Low carbon Gordano, a Solarsense renewable energy project. Delivering 1,750HWh per annum. Avon, Somerset Getty Solar Technology in the UK The solar panels array on the roof of Oldfield Park Infant School, installed with the support of Bath and West Community Energy a community project. Bath, Somerset Getty Solar Technology in the UK The solar array inverters that monitor and invert the energy made by Brixton Energy Solar who have installed several hundred square metres of solar panels on the roof of Elmore House in the Loughborough Estate in Brixton, London Getty Solar Technology in the UK The solar array inverters that monitor and invert the energy on the roof of Elmore House in the Loughborough Estate in Brixton, London Getty Solar Technology in the UK The 25kW solar panel array on the roof of Knowle West Media Centre. Supported by Bristol Energy, a community-owned energy cooperative, growing Greater Bristol's local green energy supply and making the benefits available to all Getty Sian Berry, co-leader of the Green Party told The Independent: A climate emergency has been officially declared, yet we could not have had a clearer sign that the government has failed to even begin to grasp the urgency. Renewables, with energy conservation, are the future, yet once again the government is knocking them back. The suppliers, including many small independent companies in communities around the country, have been buffeted by the sudden removal of the feed-in tariff and by the end of export tariff. She added: Again the Conservative government is choosing to privilege big, polluting energy producers over small, clean businesses. The Renewable Energy Association (REA) is contesting the HMRC proposal. It said the rates hike had come as a shock to the industry as they were consulted on in 2015/16 "and considered to be finalised" at the 5 per cent rate "following assurances at the time from ministers. Despite the falling costs of technology in the industry, the REA said the rise could mean the UK market is put at a strategic disadvantage for attracting investment and transitioning its energy system, effectively adding 15 per cent to the cost of most new projects equipment and penalising consumers who wish to reduce their carbon footprint. The association's head of policy, Frank Gordon, said: The proposed VAT rate hike hits the small-scale renewable energy industry hard during an already difficult landscape. This change risks setting back the UK decarbonisation of homes and businesses in the UK by a number of years. Despite recent mass climate-related protests and the UK parliament declaring a climate emergency, the government is again erecting a barrier to cutting emissions and increasing the costs for households who want to help. They are also failing to recognise the cumulative impact of withdrawing as many as 18 policy mechanisms that supported renewable energy deployment since 2015, which could leave the UK trailing behind on decarbonisation and clean growth. He added: The REA hopes that government will listen to our recommendations, reconsider and address this issue urgently to utilise the hard work businesses have been engaged in to drive down the costs of solar and energy storage. Support free-thinking journalism and attend Independent events Dr Jonathan Marshall, an energy analyst at the Energy and Climate Intelligence Unit, told The Independent the decision was the latest in a lengthening list of government moves hurting solar. He said: On one hand you have a government bigging itself up and marking all the milestones of progress how much power were getting from sources that arent carbon intensive and on the other hand you have quite a number of regressive policy moves which are slowing down the progress they seem so keen on. Its not only increasing the VAT on solar, its also changing the whole framework of small scale renewables, so that its almost entirely uneconomic now to put solar panels on your house. The government said the decision brought the country in line with EU law which ruled in 2015 the discounted tax rate was illegal. But following the ruling, the government did not immediately enact the changes, and the European Court of Justice went on to publish a VAT action plan in 2016 with no comment on solar power. An HMRC spokesperson said: The government is proposing changes which would keep as much tax relief as possible available for Energy-Saving Materials while ensuring UK rules are in line with EU law. The new rates will come into force the same month as the UKs deadline for leaving the EU. The changes will apply to projects where the technology costs of installation are above 60 per cent of the total price. Labour costs will still benefit from the reduced rate of 5 per cent VAT. Dr Robert Gross, from the Centre for Environmental Sciences at Imperial College London, told The Independent: The UK is reluctantly complying with an EU regulation that runs contrary to EU aspirations for CO2 and renewables. On the other hand, the government did not need to remove the feed in tariff for micro-generation that did so much to support the growth of solar in the UK. Instead of removing the FiT it could have been set at a zero-subsidy rate that provided home and business owners with a secure long term income from solar panels at a fixed price at or below the price of conventional electricity. He added: The government decided not to do this. [It is] nothing to do with EU laws. As a result, those wishing to buy solar panels for their homes will face higher costs, and at the moment they will not get the benefit of selling excess power back to the grid. Previously the feed in tariff system allowed people to claw back some of the expense of installing solar systems on their homes, but the scheme was brought to an end in March this year. The failure to receive compensation for contributing power to the grid is illegal, but the replacement system, the smart export guarantee, is yet to be finalised and rolled out. The new system is designed to be more adaptive to the needs of the grid, and this will supposedly be reflected in payments to those generating excess power. Dr Marshall said: With the smart export guarantee, the power your solar panels generate will have a higher value if its generated when the systems a bit short so if its not very windy for example, youll get more money. Its a sensible way of doing it, but the way the policy is coming through is so stop-start. At the moment, if you buy solar panels to put on your house, theres no way of claiming any sort of payment for the electricity. Youve got to hope you use it all yourself, or buy a battery at added expense. In 2017, the news that Nike would be launching a sporting hijab for Muslim women marked a watershed moment in the fashion industry. But would its cultural and social significance translate into sales? Apparently it has, as the brands Pro Hijab has just been named one of the hottest fashion products in the world right now by global fashion search platform, Lyst. The product ranks seventh in Lysts quarterly index behind a number of luxury high-fashion items, including Alexander McQueens oversized sole sneakers (first), Pradas stud-embellished headband (second) and Jacqeumus Le Chiquito bag (third). Morgane Le Caer of Lyst tells The Independent that although it may feel reductive to label a hijab a hot fashion product, given its religious significance, the fact that it has made its way onto the report means it is one of the most in-demand fashion items across the globe, which she describes as exciting and important. This is reflective of the many socio-cultural changes that have been impacting the fashion industry, Le Caer adds. There is a real need and ever growing demand for more inclusive fashion. A totally inclusive approach to representation in design and marketing is essential for both customers and brands. New-in fashion pieces to buy on the high street in May Show all 20 1 /20 New-in fashion pieces to buy on the high street in May New-in fashion pieces to buy on the high street in May Rixo, Paris Balloon-Sleeve Print Satin Mini Dress, 275, Selfridges A summer-ready dress that's guaranteed to make you stand out from the crowd, this silky satin number features two different graphic prints in a rainbow of colours. Accessorise with a red lip and simple sandals New-in fashion pieces to buy on the high street in May Split Wicker Straw Mini Grab Bag, 20, Topshop This summer, the one trend that looks set to flood our Instagram feeds is the humble basket bag. If it's missing from your carryall collection we suggest investing in this wicker option from Topshop which will have you picnic-ready in no time New-in fashion pieces to buy on the high street in May Shell Earrings, 12.99, Zara Shell-inspired accessories are already dominating our social feeds so make sure you stay on trend with this pair of delicate drop earrings New-in fashion pieces to buy on the high street in May Martine Drape Front Sleeveless Top, 95, Reiss A subtle way to embrace this season's trend for desert neutrals, this silky top will look great worn with everything from black tailored trousers at work to cream wide-leg jeans at the weekend New-in fashion pieces to buy on the high street in May Asymmetric Printed Top, 29.99, Zara The one-shoulder top is the latest Eighties trend to re-emerge on our sartorial radar. This floral option features long puff sleeves, a pleated front and an invisible side zip fastening New-in fashion pieces to buy on the high street in May Short-Sleeved Jumpsuit, 35, Monki As we transition from spring to summer, a jumpsuit promises to become one of the most worn items in your wardrobe. This one features a short sleeve, long flow legs and a seasonal sunflower print New-in fashion pieces to buy on the high street in May Marina Mini Signet Ring, 19, Jigsaw If you're happy with what's in your wardrobe then consider investing in accessories that will stand the test of time. This mini signet ring is inspired by seaside memoirs and features brass and sterling silver plating with hammered finishes New-in fashion pieces to buy on the high street in May Python Print Bias Cut Skirt, 129, Whistles Bias cut skirts aren't going anywhere this summer and we're loving this bright yellow option from Whistles. Featuring a subtle python print, it also taps into the ongoing animal trend New-in fashion pieces to buy on the high street in May Gabi High Waist Wide Leg Jean, 99, Whistles These jeans are not only the perfect colour, but they're also a great shape. Designed with a wide leg and a high waist, they look great with everything from slogan T-shirts to silky camisole tops New-in fashion pieces to buy on the high street in May Light Green Linen Look Buckle Shorts, 17.99, New Look If wearing a mini skirt feels too much as the weather warms up, try a pair of easy-breezy shorts instead. Coordinate with an oversized shirt and white trainers for a laid-back sunny day look. Also available in white, navy, pale blue, stone and rust New-in fashion pieces to buy on the high street in May Black Floral Plunge Pinafore Dress, 55, Topshop A dress that you can wear again and again, especially during wedding season, this floral number is designed with a plunge neckline and tiered skirt New-in fashion pieces to buy on the high street in May Braided Handbag, 39.99, H&M This braided handbag is the perfect size for impromptu day drinks with friends or days at the beach and promises to pair nicely with most things you already own New-in fashion pieces to buy on the high street in May Converse Sasha Ox Trainers, 54.99, Office Who says they don't make them like they used to? A pair of classic white trainers are an absolute must for summer and you can't go wrong with a pair of Converse New-in fashion pieces to buy on the high street in May Cropped Pleat Front Trousers, 40, Warehouse If you have to adhere to a strict office dress code then you might as well do it in style. This pair of cropped black trousers feature a high waist with front pleats and back pockets. Wear yours with a tucked-in blouse and colourful block heels New-in fashion pieces to buy on the high street in May Open-back Swimsuit, 49, Cos Shopping for swimwear in May might seem a little pre-emptive but if you want to get the good stuff, now's the time to do it. A contemporary piece in a solid colour, this swimsuit is made from a smooth, stretchy material with a full lining. This green option is cut with a flattering scooped open back and wide square neck New-in fashion pieces to buy on the high street in May Belted Linen Kaftan, 69, & Other Stories A great addition to any work wardrobe, this beige dress sits at a flattering midi-length and comes with a wide waist belt New-in fashion pieces to buy on the high street in May Chunky Leather Sandals, 89, Cos Forget dad trainers, this season is all about dad sandals. Complete with chunky soles, these sandals are made from smooth leather with a comfortable leather sole and fasten easily New-in fashion pieces to buy on the high street in May Tie-dye Scarf, 12.99, Mango Add a splash of colour to your look with this silky scarf that can be worn round your neck or tied to handbags New-in fashion pieces to buy on the high street in May Oversized Fluid Blazer, 135, Arket A really simple way to elevate an everyday outfit, an oversized cream blazer like this one will work with casual weekend garb or evening dresses New-in fashion pieces to buy on the high street in May Ace & Tate Donna Sunglasses, 98, Arket A strong and sturdy pair of sunglasses that will see you through the entire summer, this set are made from transparent brown acetate while the lenses feature anti-scratch coating and full UV protection Each year, Lyst compiles quarterly reports based on the shopping behaviours of more than five million people per month who are buying fashion online around the world from 12,000 designers and stores. The data takes into account brand growth, conversion rates and sales, social media mentions and internet searches over a three month period. Also included in its list of hottest womens product for this quarter is Guccis logo belt as seen on celebrities including Kendall Jenner and Jennifer Aniston Sandy Lis shearling jacket and the Fendi baguette bag, which was a sought-after fashion staple in the 1990s and has since enjoyed a renaissance. The Gucci logo belt has performed consistently well in Lysts index in previous years (Lyst) Following Nikes Pro Hijab in eighth place is another staple Gucci item: the Italian labels Ace sneakers that bear its signature red and green stripe. The Fendi baguette bag is one of the Italian labels most popular and recognisable items. (Lyst) This is followed by Proenza Schoulers tie-dye turtleneck top, which the report states is part of an increasing interest in tie-dye, with the term being one of the fastest growing fashion search keywords this year. Recommended How Ezra Miller became the style icon we all need The Lyst Index also uses its data to rank the hottest brands of the year so far, and it will come as no surprise to those in the know that cult streetwear label Off-White is this quarters frontrunner yet again, having earned the same title in October 2018. Designer Virgil Ablohs subversive and athleisure-inspired brand clearly has a hold on the industry, with celebrity fans including Bella Hadid, Kanye West and Hailey Bieber. Earlier this year, Abloh joined forces with luxury online retailer MatchesFashion.com and Evian to launch a reusable water bottle. It swiftly prompted a waiting list of more than 4,000 people. Bella Hadid pictured with Virgil Abloh backstage at the Off White show during Paris Fashion Week. (Rex Features) In second place behind Off-White is Gucci, Balenciaga, Valentino, Fendi and Prada, all of which are Italian labels. In seventh place is streetwear brand Stone Island. Versace, Vetements and Saint Laurent came in eighth, ninth and tenth place, respectively. See the full report on Lyst here. More same-sex couples, single women and surrogates are using in vitro fertilisation (IVF) treatment, news figures show. According to the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA) the UKs independent regulator of fertility treatment and research using human embryo more than 54,000 patients underwent around 75,000 fertility treatments in 2017. The data, which relates to treatment cycles carried out in 2017, shows that IVF treatment cycles have also increased by 2.5 per cent since 2016, resulting in over 20,500 babies being born. IVF is one of several techniques available to help people with fertility problems have a baby, the NHS states. During IVF, an egg is removed from the woman's ovaries and fertilised with sperm in a laboratory. The embryo is then returned to the woman's womb to grow and develop. World's smallest baby pictures Show all 4 1 /4 World's smallest baby pictures World's smallest baby pictures Five days after his birth in August 2018, weighing 268 grams Reuters World's smallest baby pictures A more recent, undated photo of the baby boy Reuters World's smallest baby pictures Baby boy on February 27 2019, at 3.2kg AFP/Getty World's smallest baby pictures Five days after his birth in August 2018, weighing 268 grams Reuters Success rates of IVF are also continuing to improve, with the average birth rate for women using their own eggs reaching 22 per cent. Women aged under 35 using their own eggs are found to have the highest birth rates with 30 per cent for a fresh cycle and 27 per cent for a frozen cycle. Some private clinics use selective success rates in sales tactics, watchdog says (Getty/iStock) The report also indicates that IVF is becoming safer as fewer patients are having twins. The figures show that multiple births, which is the single biggest health risk from IVF, has reached an all-time low of 10 per cent, marking a sharp decline from 24 per cent in 2008. Speaking about the findings, Sally Cheshire CBE, Chair of the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority, said: Fertility treatment has come a long way over more than 40 years and is now safer whilst helping more people to create their much longed for families. We know that multiple births carry higher risks to mothers and babies and cost more to the NHS. Thats why, it is a great achievement that all our hard work with fertility clinics has paid off as we have now achieved the lowest ever multiple birth rate while continuing to see success rates rise. The baby was created using an experimental form of IVF (Getty) The average age of patients undergoing both IVF and donor insemination (DI) treatments has increased from 33.5 and 32 in 1991 to 35.5 and 34.5 in 2017, respectively. The majority (90.7 per cent) of treatment cycles in 2017 were undertaken by patients with male partners. The remaining patients were listed with a female partner (5.9 per cent), no partner (3 per cent) or as a surrogate (0.4 per cent). However, the fastest growing fertility treatment type is egg freezing, which has increased by 11 per cent since 2016 to 1,462 cycles in 2017. Recommended Michelle Obama opens up about miscarriage and use of IVF to conceive Frozen cycles success rates at 23 per cent have overtaken those of fresh embryo cycles (21 per cent) for the first time since records began. As for a UK breakdown of treatments, 62 per cent of treatment cycles are NHS-funded in Scotland and 50 per cent in Northern Ireland. Meanwhile only 39 per cent and 35 per cent are NHS-funded in Wales and England. Prof Allan Pacey, Professor of Andrology, University of Sheffield, describes the nationwide funding discrepancies as alarming. What is alarming to me is the shocking difference in NHS funded cycles across the four nations of the UK, with Scotland being the most generous and England being the least, he says. This is really shameful and unfair. We really need to change this and make NHS provision of IVF equitable, regardless of where people live. Support free-thinking journalism and attend Independent events Prof Joyce Harper, Professor in Human Genetics and Embryology, University College London (UCL), concurred, adding: Fertility treatment is turning into a middle class procedure, with the UK having some of the highest IVF costs in Europe. It is time to address the commercialisation of IVF and how the NHS fund it. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) fertility guidelines make recommendations about who should have access to IVF treatment on the NHS in England and Wales, the NHS states. Under NICEs guidelines, it is recommended that IVF should be offered to women under the age of 43 who have been trying to get pregnant through regular unprotected sex for two years, or who have had 12 cycles of artificial insemination. However, the final decision about who is able to receive NHS-funded IVF in England is made by local clinical commissioning groups (CCGs). Earlier this year, a study the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG), found that almost half of young women would consider freezing their eggs in future. According to the research, 25 per cent of women aged between 18 and 24 are worried about their ability to conceive, a concern also shared more widely by 49 per cent of women of all ages in the UK. Instagram has launched a digital magazine that will provide students with advice and mental health support during exam season. The social media platform has created the publication, which is called #GramFam, with The Mix a crisis support service for young people and Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) a charity campaigning to bring the suicide rate down among young men. The online magazine will feature input and advice from a number of celebrities and influencers including Jameela Jamil, Gina Martin, Loyle Carner and Love Island's Dr Alex George. The organisations decided to create #GramFam after Instagram found that use of the hashtag #examstress on the platform had risen 640 per cent between March and May 2018. The Mix also revealed it had seen use of its service increase among young people by 114 per cent during this time last year. Sow Ay illustrations on mental health Show all 18 1 /18 Sow Ay illustrations on mental health Sow Ay illustrations on mental health Sow Ay illustrations on mental health Sow Ay illustrations on mental health Sow Ay illustrations on mental health Sow Ay illustrations on mental health Sow Ay illustrations on mental health Sow Ay illustrations on mental health Sow Ay illustrations on mental health Sow Ay illustrations on mental health Sow Ay illustrations on mental health Sow Ay illustrations on mental health Sow Ay illustrations on mental health Sow Ay illustrations on mental health Sow Ay illustrations on mental health Sow Ay illustrations on mental health Sow Ay illustrations on mental health Sow Ay illustrations on mental health Sow Ay illustrations on mental health Year on year we see more young people struggling with stress during exam season, which is why our partnership with Instagram, Calm and all the fantastic contributors to #GramFam is so relevant, said Chris Martin, chief executive of The Mix. This issue of the Instazine will reach far and wide with tips from new supporters such as Jameela Jamil and KissFM's Tom Green, enabling us to support anyone struggling under the pressure of exams as well as letting them know that The Mix is there for them whatever life throws their way. Recommended University students are turning to memes for mental health support CALM boss Simon Gunning added: We're delighted to bring our #GramFam campaign with The Mix and Instagram to life with this #GramFam Live event, centred around supporting young people through the difficult revision and exam period. The reaction to this campaign has been great, both from our audience and from the people who have taken part so far such as Dr Alex, Lewis Capaldi, DJ Neev, MOB Kitchen and Calm ambassadors Romesh Ranganathan and Loyle Carner. We're looking forward to #GramFam Live delivering entertaining and funny content with an important message underpinned throughout. In 2018, the Department for Educations former mental health advisor reported that academic anxiety was a greater source of stress for teenagers than concerns about body image. Natasha Devon said she had seen a rise in secondary school students asking for help to cope with academic anxiety over the past two years. It does feel like there is more pressure on students and they feel they have to be more competitive with each other, Devon previously told The Independent. Academic anxiety has now replaced body image worries as the number one reason pupils give for feelings of panic and distress." If youre under 25 and need help, you can call The Mixs helpline for free on 0808 808 4994. You can also speak to one of their trained helpline supporters on their one to one chat service or text THEMIX to 85258. Giving pregnant women who have previously had a miscarriage an additional dose of progesterone could improve their chances of having a baby, a new study suggests. According to the NHS, progesterone is produced naturally in the female body and is used as a marker of ovulation in the investigation of infertility. It also plays an important role in the menstrual cycle and in maintaining the early stages of pregnancy. A study by the University of Birmingham found that women who have had one or multiple miscarriages and who have early bleeding in their next pregnancy could benefit from extra doses of the hormone. The research involved 4,153 pregnant women who presented with early pregnancy bleeding at 48 UK hospitals. Meghan Markle's best pregnancy looks Show all 11 1 /11 Meghan Markle's best pregnancy looks Meghan Markle's best pregnancy looks 14 January 2019 In an unusual style choice for the Duchess, who traditionally favours neutral hues, this ensemble offers a vibrant twist on the colour-blocking trend with a red Sentaler coat, matching heels and a bright purple Aritzia dress. It was a playful choice for the royal couple's visit to Birkenhead Town Hall. Getty Images Meghan Markle's best pregnancy looks 30 January 2019 The Duchess wore head-to-toe blush for her visit to the National Theatre, where she is now a patron. The ensemble is by US designer Brandon Maxwell but the suede shoes are Aquazurra. Getty Images Meghan Markle's best pregnancy looks 1 February 2019 Oscar de la Renta can do no wrong when it comes to flirty patterned dresses. This theatrical bird and rose-covered number was an apt choice for the Duchess; visit to Bristol Old Vic. AFP/Getty Images Meghan Markle's best pregnancy looks 7 February 2019 This Givenchy skirt offers some pizzazz thanks to its knee-high slit and its flattering waistline. Markle paired the look Aquazzura mules and a white collared shirt. Getty Images Meghan Markle's best pregnancy looks 12 February 2019 Who said you couldn't wear all-white everything? Markle paired her turtleneck Calvin Klein dress with an Amanda Wakeley coat for a gala performance at the Natural History Museum. Getty Images Meghan Markle's best pregnancy looks 23 February 2019 The Duchess was a lady in red for her visit to Casablanca, Morocco in this bespoke Valentino midi-dress, which she paired with nude court heels and a matching clutch. Getty Images Meghan Markle's best pregnancy looks 24 February 2019 Markle arrived at a reception hosted by the British Ambassador to Morocco in this full-coverage caped gown by Dior, which came in an opulent shade of champagne. Getty Images Meghan Markle's best pregnancy looks 25 February 2019 This billowing Carolina Herrera dress was the perfect choice for the Duchess' outing to brace the balmy climes of Rabat, Morocco, where she'd been visiting King Mohammed VI of Morocco with Prince Harry. This hypnotic sea blue gown was a custom-made number, obviously. Getty Images Meghan Markle's best pregnancy looks 8 March 2019 Proving that maternity hemlines needn't be restricted to one's ankles, Markle stepped out in this 1960s-inspired shift dress by high street label, Reiss. Paired with a black blazer and a pair of matching Manolo Blahnik pumps, it was a classic but delightfully retro look. AFP/Getty Images Meghan Markle's best pregnancy looks 11 March 2019 The Duchess has a penchant for rich emerald green hues, and this ensemble exemplifies just how suited the shade is to her complexion. The outfit was designed by Erdem, which was a symbolic choice given she wore the Canadian designer's pieces to a Commonwealth Day Youth Event at Canada House in London. Getty Images Meghan Markle's best pregnancy looks 11 March 2019 For the Commonwealth Day service at Westminster Abbey, the Duchess wore a cream chain-print dress by Victoria Beckham, which made its runway debut just a few weeks ago at London Fashion Week. The look was topped off with a matching pillbox hat, emerald green stilettos and a satin clutch. Getty Images They were randomly assigned by computer into one of two groups - one group were given 400mg of progesterone twice daily as a vaginal pessary, while the other group were given a placebo. Of the 777 women given progesterone who had previously had one or two miscarriages, 591 (76 per cent) went on to have a live birth, compared with 534 women out of 738 in the placebo group (72 per cent). The effect of the progesterone was greater for women who had suffered three or more miscarriages, with a 15 per cent increase in the live birth rate compared with those who were given placebos. Recommended Pink opens up about experiencing several miscarriages since she was 17 Whats more, of 137 women with three or more previous miscarriages, 98 (72 per cent) went on to have a live birth, compared with 57 per cent (85 out of 148) of women in the placebo group. While the study did not show that progesterone could help all women who suffered early pregnancy bleeding, it was found to be beneficial to those who had suffered miscarriages. Arri Coomarasamy, professor of gynaecology at the University of Birmingham, says the findings will have huge implications for practice. This treatment could save thousands of babies who may have otherwise been lost to a miscarriage, Coomarasamy says. We hope that this evidence will be considered by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (Nice) and that it will be used to update national guidelines for women at risk of miscarriage. Jane Brewin, chief executive of the Tommy's the largest charity funding research into the causes of miscarriage, stillbirth and premature birth adds: The results from this study are important for parents who have experienced miscarriage - they now have a robust and effective treatment option which will save many lives and prevent much heartache. It gives us confidence to believe that further research will yield more treatments and ultimately make many more miscarriages preventable. Support free-thinking journalism and attend Independent events According to Tommys, one in 100 women experience recurrent miscarriage, which is defined as three or more miscarriages in a row. The organisation explains that the cause is unknown in around half of cases and that research into the topic is the only way we can save lives. For confidential support and advice regarding miscarriage, you can contact the Miscarriage Association on their helpline by calling 01924 200799 or emailing info@miscarriageassociation.org.uk. British defence giant BAE Systems said it was working with the UK government to deliver arms contracts for Saudi Arabia after Germany extended its own ban on weapons exports to the Middle Eastern kingdom. Germany halted weapons exports to Saudi Arabia after the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi at the Saudi consulate in Istanbul last year. In March, the restrictions were extended for a further six months. But BAE, Europes biggest defence company, said on Thursday it would continue to ship weapons to Saudi Arabia which has faced widespread criticism for its role as leader of a bombing campaign in Yemen that has killed thousands of civilians. Following the recent updates from the German government regarding export licences, we are working closely with industry partners and the UK government to continue to fulfil our contractual support arrangements in Saudi Arabia on the key European collaboration programmes, BAE said ahead of its annual general meeting (AGM) on Thursday. BAE noted that it remained subject to geopolitical uncertainties but said US President Donald Trumps defence spending plans would provide positive momentum as it reiterated its earnings targets for the year. The children wounded in Yemen's war Show all 15 1 /15 The children wounded in Yemen's war The children wounded in Yemen's war Ali Ashwal / Save the Children The children wounded in Yemen's war Ali Ashwal / Save the Children The children wounded in Yemen's war Ali Ashwal / Save the Children The children wounded in Yemen's war Ali Ashwal / Save the Children The children wounded in Yemen's war Ali Ashwal / Save the Children The children wounded in Yemen's war Ali Ashwal / Save the Children The children wounded in Yemen's war Ali Ashwal / Save the Children The children wounded in Yemen's war Ali Ashwal / Save the Children The children wounded in Yemen's war Ali Ashwal / Save the Children The children wounded in Yemen's war Ali Ashwal / Save the Children The children wounded in Yemen's war Ali Ashwal / Save the Children The children wounded in Yemen's war Ali Ashwal / Save the Children The children wounded in Yemen's war Ali Ashwal / Save the Children The children wounded in Yemen's war Save the Children The children wounded in Yemen's war Save the Children Germanys ban has irked some big defence firms and European governments with close ties to those firms. In February, BAEs shares tumbled after it warned that multibillion-pound deals with Saudi Arabia could be threatened by Germanys stance. BAE works with German firms Airbus and MTU Aero Engines, among others, on the Eurofighter Typhoon, a fighter jet conceived in the 1980s and beset by delays and cost overruns. BAE is chasing a 10bn order from Riyadh for 48 Typhoons as it struggles to drum up interest in a plane designed for air-to-air dogfighting which critics say has little relevance in the post-Cold War era. Saudi Arabia has long been one of BAEs most lucrative customers and has already snapped up 72 Typhoons. The German arms ban also affects BAEs ability to supply parts for a fleet of Hawk and Tornado jets. In February, Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt urged Germany to exempt large defence projects from its ban. According to Der Spiegel, Mr Hunt wrote in a letter to German foreign minister Heiko Mass: I am very concerned about the impact of the German governments decision on the British and European defence industry and the consequences for Europes ability to fulfil its Nato commitments. The UK has strongly criticised Saudi Arabia over Mr Khashoggi's slaying but has refused to reconsider weapons sales to Riyadh. A British teenager with cystic fibrosis has become the first person in the world to be treated with genetically engineered, bacteria-hunting viruses, after developing a deadly infection. Two years ago Isabelle Holdaway, now 17, was fighting for her life in Great Ormond Street Hospital (Gosh) following a lung transplant and antibiotics were no longer having any effect. "We were at the point where there was no other hope, they said she wasn't going to leave the hospital and had less than 1 per cent chance of survival," Isabelle's mother Jo Holdaway told The Independent. But after being treated with a cocktail of bacteriophages viruses which are specialised to kill the bacteria but not infect human cells she is now back taking her GCSEs and learning to drive. "She's doing all the things you should be doing at 17," Ms Holdaway added. Science news in pictures Show all 20 1 /20 Science news in pictures Science news in pictures Pluto has 'beating heart' of frozen nitrogen Pluto has a 'beating heart' of frozen nitrogen that is doing strange things to its surface, Nasa has found. The mysterious core seems to be the cause of features on its surface that have fascinated scientists since they were spotted by Nasa's New Horizons mission. "Before New Horizons, everyone thought Pluto was going to be a netball - completely flat, almost no diversity," said Tanguy Bertrand, an astrophysicist and planetary scientist at NASA's Ames Research Center and the lead author on the new study. "But it's completely different. It has a lot of different landscapes and we are trying to understand what's going on there." Getty Science news in pictures Over 400 species discovered this year by Natural History Museum The ancient invertabrate worm-like species rhenopyrgus viviani (pictured) is one of over 400 species previously unknown to science that were discovered by experts at the Natural History Museum this year PA Science news in pictures Jackdaws can identify 'dangerous' humans Jackdaws can identify dangerous humans from listening to each others warning calls, scientists say. The highly social birds will also remember that person if they come near their nests again, according to researchers from the University of Exeter. In the study, a person unknown to the wild jackdaws approached their nest. At the same time scientists played a recording of a warning call (threatening) or contact calls (non-threatening). The next time jackdaws saw this same person, the birds that had previously heard the warning call were defensive and returned to their nests more than twice as quickly on average. Getty Science news in pictures Turtle embryos influence sex by shaking The sex of the turtle is determined by the temperatures at which they are incubated. Warm temperatures favour females. But by wiggling around the egg, embryos can find the Goldilocks Zone which means they are able to shield themselves against extreme thermal conditions and produce a balanced sex ratio, according to the new study published in Current Biology journal Ye et al/Current Biology Science news in pictures Elephant poaching rates drop in Africa African elephant poaching rates have dropped by 60 per cent in six years, an international study has found. It is thought the decline could be associated with the ivory trade ban introduced in China in 2017. Reuters Science news in pictures Ancient four-legged whale discovered in Peru Scientists have identified a four-legged creature with webbed feet to be an ancestor of the whale. Fossils unearthed in Peru have led scientists to conclude that the enormous creatures that traverse the planets oceans today are descended from small hoofed ancestors that lived in south Asia 50 million years ago A. Gennari Science news in pictures Animal with transient anus discovered A scientist has stumbled upon a creature with a transient anus that appears only when it is needed, before vanishing completely. Dr Sidney Tamm of the Marine Biological Laboratory could not initially find any trace of an anus on the species. However, as the animal gets full, a pore opens up to dispose of waste Steven G Johnson Science news in pictures Giant bee spotted Feared extinct, the Wallace's Giant bee has been spotted for the first time in nearly 40 years. An international team of conservationists spotted the bee, that is four times the size of a typical honeybee, on an expedition to a group of Indonesian Islands Clay Bolt Science news in pictures New mammal species found inside crocodile Fossilised bones digested by crocodiles have revealed the existence of three new mammal species that roamed the Cayman Islands 300 years ago. The bones belonged to two large rodent species and a small shrew-like animal New Mexico Museum of Natural History Science news in pictures Fabric that changes according to temperature created Scientists at the University of Maryland have created a fabric that adapts to heat, expanding to allow more heat to escape the body when warm and compacting to retain more heat when cold Faye Levine, University of Maryland Science news in pictures Baby mice tears could be used in pest control A study from the University of Tokyo has found that the tears of baby mice cause female mice to be less interested in the sexual advances of males Getty Science news in pictures Final warning to limit "climate catastrophe" The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change has issued a report which projects the impact of a rise in global temperatures of 1.5 degrees Celsius and warns against a higher increase Getty Science news in pictures Nobel prize for evolution chemists The nobel prize for chemistry has been awarded to three chemists working with evolution. Frances Smith is being awarded the prize for her work on directing the evolution of enzymes, while Gregory Winter and George Smith take the prize for their work on phage display of peptides and antibodies Getty/AFP Science news in pictures Nobel prize for laser physicists The nobel prize for physics has been awarded to three physicists working with lasers. Arthur Ashkin (L) was awarded for his "optical tweezers" which use lasers to grab particles, atoms, viruses and other living cells. Donna Strickland and Gerard Mourou were jointly awarded the prize for developing chirped-pulse amplification of lasers Reuters/AP Science news in pictures Discovery of a new species of dinosaur The Ledumahadi Mafube roamed around 200 million years ago in what is now South Africa. Recently discovered by a team of international scientists, it was the largest land animal of its time, weighing 12 tons and standing at 13 feet. In Sesotho, the South African language of the region in which the dinosaur was discovered, its name means "a giant thunderclap at dawn" Viktor Radermacher / SWNS Science news in pictures Birth of a planet Scientists have witnessed the birth of a planet for the first time ever. This spectacular image from the SPHERE instrument on ESO's Very Large Telescope is the first clear image of a planet caught in the very act of formation around the dwarf star PDS 70. The planet stands clearly out, visible as a bright point to the right of the center of the image, which is blacked out by the coronagraph mask used to block the blinding light of the central star. ESO/A. Muller et al Science news in pictures New human organ discovered that was previously missed by scientists Layers long thought to be dense, connective tissue are actually a series of fluid-filled compartments researchers have termed the interstitium. These compartments are found beneath the skin, as well as lining the gut, lungs, blood vessels and muscles, and join together to form a network supported by a mesh of strong, flexible proteins Getty Science news in pictures Previously unknown society lived in Amazon rainforest before Europeans arrived, say archaeologists Working in the Brazilian state of Mato Grosso, a team led by archaeologists at the University of Exeter unearthed hundreds of villages hidden in the depths of the rainforest. These excavations included evidence of fortifications and mysterious earthworks called geoglyphs Jose Iriarte Science news in pictures One in 10 people have traces of cocaine or heroin on fingerprints, study finds More than one in 10 people were found to have traces of class A drugs on their fingers by scientists developing a new fingerprint-based drug test. Using sensitive analysis of the chemical composition of sweat, researchers were able to tell the difference between those who had been directly exposed to heroin and cocaine, and those who had encountered it indirectly. Getty Science news in pictures Nasa releases stunning images of Jupiter's great red spot The storm bigger than the Earth, has been swhirling for 350 years. The image's colours have been enhanced after it was sent back to Earth. Pictures by: Tom Momary Everyone said dont get your hopes up, its totally experimental. If I was a religious person I would have been praying but we just had to hope that it arrived in time for Isabelle to benefit." "Nobody else would have had access to this had they not been in this dire, near death situation - she is a lucky, lucky girl." While phage therapy has been a concept for nearly a century, it has had limited use because each virus is tightly evolved to kill a particular bacteria strain and not all are lethal enough to be effective. All three phages (Muddy, BPs, and ZoeJ, shown, left to right, in electron micrographs) used to treat the infection had been catalouged as part of research projects and were never intended for medical use (R. M. Dedrick et al. / Nature Medicine 2019) But Isabelles case is the first to show how genetically engineering these viruses could make them more effective. This could make it an important future tool in the battle against drug resistance, which health leaders warn could push medicine back to the dark ages. While significant research will be needed before it becomes a mainstream treatment this gives proof of concept. This is the first person who has been treated for a mycobacterium infection with phage therapy, that were aware of, respiratory paediatrician Dr Helen Fisher told The Independent. The mycobacteria are a group which include tuberculosis-causing strains and which are increasing worry because of their drug resistance, but are a "particular problem in cystic fibrosis". In Isabelles case, the infection at the site of her surgical wound, had spread to her liver and her lungs and after nine months in hospital she was no longer responding to antibiotics. She was incredibly sick, said Dr Spencer, who is also one of the senior authors of the paper published in the journal Nature Medicine. She had fulminant [acute] liver failure... She was pretty much bed bound, wasnt eating at all, we were having to feed her intravenously. Isabelles parents knew we were trying to work on this phage therapy, so when the time came that we had no other conventional therapies to use and ongoing signs of infection they were desperate for other options. Isabelles parents had read about phage therapy in a different infection and proposed it as an option to Dr Spencer. This led the Gosh team to send samples of Isabelles infection, and another similarly infected patient, to microbiology expert Professor Graham Hatfull, at the University of Pittsburgh. The university has one of the largest collections of bacteriophages in the world, with more than 15,000 strains identified and catalogued by researchers, though these were never intended for medical use. We were sent a few strains, from London, and set about testing whether the phages in our collection would be able to infect these particular bacterial strains, Professor Hatfull said. But despite a shortlist of 100 likely candidates there was only one strain dubbed Muddy which was a natural born killer. This forced them to go a step further and engineer two other likely candidates to beef up their lethality to the mycobacterium. This cocktail combination also minimises the chances of the bacteria adapting to withstand any one attacker. In June 2018 Isabelle began twice daily infusions of the phages, receiving billions of viruses at a time, and six weeks later the infection had disappeared from her liver. While pockets of skin infections remain her doctors hope the combination of phage therapy and antibiotics will eventually clear it. However they stress that there are significant limitations to phage therapy becoming a mainstream option. The second patient Professor Hatfull and colleagues had been investigating died just a month before they identified a potential phage treatment. Antibiotics are very effective, but theyre a blunt instrument, Professor Hatfull told The Independent. With phages its the opposite end of the spectrum. Theyre very specific, its a targeted strike, youre not going to affect the rest of the microbiome and theyre low toxicity, because they dont infect human cells. But its a double edged sword, because they may target the strain infecting patient number one, but patient two or three, may have the same species of bacteria but the strain can vary to such an extent that it doesnt work. A new method for determining the risk of measles outbreaks could help health officials target catch-up vaccination and education programmes to minimise the harm from preventable disease. US researchers, led by Johns Hopkins University, used their tool to identify the 25 US counties which have the highest risk of a measles outbreak in 2019 and say their findings could be applied around the world. It correctly predicted several of the regions in New York, Washington and Oregon which have seen major outbreaks already this year some of which have led to public health emergencies being declared. While vaccination rates are one part of the model, the new findings enhances this picture by including data on international flights and global measles outbreaks, which act as the spark to set off an outbreak. There are two critical factors which we know contribute to the risk of measles, one of them is low vaccination rates, the other is international travel, said Dr Lauren Gardner, one of the authors of the study in the journal Lancet Infectious Disease. 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 New York borough of Brooklyn is a perfect example of an at risk borough, because of low vaccination rates among the orthodox Jewish population. It is also has lots of international visitors, and many of the areas at risk were identified because of their close proximity to an international airport - something which could be used to target disease surveillance schemes. Using international data on measles outbreaks and travel, the researchers were also able to identify seven countries most likely to transmit measles to the US - namely, India, China, Mexico, Japan, Ukraine, Philippines and Thailand. While much of the data on measles outbreaks and vaccinations is publicly available, the researchers struck a deal to access flight data from the International Air Travel Association something other countries could do as well. This is definitely a transferable model, its very flexible and can be applied to other locations and other diseases as well, Dr Gardner added, saying that they would like to look at risk across Europe and in Australasia next. Recommended Compulsory vaccination could be justified if measles returns In these countries a rising problem of vaccine hesitancy is a factor in measles re-emerging. This is driven in part by complacency about diseases like measles which, thanks to vaccination, no longer cause deaths, and life-changing injury. But equally by erroneous fears about the harms of vaccine being stoked by anti-vaxxers who have become a global movement thanks to the reach of social media. This growing trend has a consequences which reach far beyond any one child or person. There are people who choose not to be vaccinated, and people whose parents chose for them, Dr Gardner said. But there are also people who dont have that choice: babies, they cant be vaccinated until a certain age, and people who cant for medical reasons So theyre all exposed. An Islamist extremist who threatened to kill police officers has been jailed for terror offences. Mohammed Hamza Ghani was already going through a government deradicalisation programme when he made the attack threat. Scotland Yard said the 28-year-old phoned 999 and the anti-terrorist hotline to claim he would kill people or police officers on 12 January. When officers went to his home in Barnet, Ghani confessed that electronic devices in his bedroom contained electronic copies of terrorist magazines, including Isis and al-Qaeda propaganda. He was already known to authorities because he was undergoing the Channel intervention programme - which is currently under review - after expressing extremist views. 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 Commander Clarke Jarrett, head of the Metropolitan Police counterterror command, said: The officer seized his devices, including USB sticks and a laptop, and these were later analysed by digital forensic specialists. They did indeed contain terrorist publications, featuring horrendous articles about how to make different types of bombs, where to carry out terrorist attacks and how to assassinate people. When police asked him about the magazines, which included an issue commemorating the 11 September 2011 terror attacks, Ghani said he considered them entertaining and informative. The Independent understands that Ghani had collected propaganda from Isis, al-Qaeda and other Islamist literature, and did not demonstrate affiliation to a particular group. He pleaded guilty to eight counts of possessing documents containing terrorist information at London's Old Bailey. He was sentenced to two years and four months imprisonment Commander Jarrett concluded: The material Ghani downloaded is not entertaining and informative as he stated, but is toxic, hate-filled and in the wrong hands would provide a person with sufficient knowledge to carry out an attack. Terror police appeal for public help to thwart plots We take the downloading of this material incredibly seriously and have a team of digital experts working to identify those viewing and sharing this kind of material, so that we can bring them to face justice just as we have done with Ghani. The case came after terror investigations hit a record high of 700 in the UK, amid warnings Islamists and the far-right are "feeding each other". As of October, around 80 per cent of investigations by police and MI5 were looking into Islamist jihadis and 20 per cent other, including a significant proportion from the right-wing. Three men and a teenage boy have been arrested over the Derry riots where journalist Lyra McKee was killed. The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) said the suspects, aged 15, 18, 38 and 51, were arrested on Thursday morning under terror laws. Detective Superintendent Jason Murphy said: As part of this mornings operation detectives carried out searches at four houses in the city and arrested four people in connection with the violence which was orchestrated on the streets of Creggan on the evening of Lyra McKees murder. The suspects are being questioned by detectives in Belfast. Ms McKee, 29, was shot dead as she stood next to a police vehicle in Derry on 18 April. Violence erupts in Northern Ireland as journalist killed during riots Show all 21 1 /21 Violence erupts in Northern Ireland as journalist killed during riots Violence erupts in Northern Ireland as journalist killed during riots A burning car in Creggan, Derry after petrol bombs were thrown at police during riots in Northern Ireland PA Violence erupts in Northern Ireland as journalist killed during riots Armed police at the scene of unrest PA Violence erupts in Northern Ireland as journalist killed during riots Petrol bombs being thrown at police PA Violence erupts in Northern Ireland as journalist killed during riots Belfast Journalist Lyra McKee was killed during the riots. Police Service of Northern Ireland said that McKee was allegedly shot while reporting on clashes with dissident republican rioters EPA Violence erupts in Northern Ireland as journalist killed during riots PA Violence erupts in Northern Ireland as journalist killed during riots PA Violence erupts in Northern Ireland as journalist killed during riots PA Violence erupts in Northern Ireland as journalist killed during riots PA Violence erupts in Northern Ireland as journalist killed during riots PA Violence erupts in Northern Ireland as journalist killed during riots PA Violence erupts in Northern Ireland as journalist killed during riots PA Violence erupts in Northern Ireland as journalist killed during riots PA Violence erupts in Northern Ireland as journalist killed during riots PA Violence erupts in Northern Ireland as journalist killed during riots PA Violence erupts in Northern Ireland as journalist killed during riots PA Violence erupts in Northern Ireland as journalist killed during riots PA Violence erupts in Northern Ireland as journalist killed during riots PA Violence erupts in Northern Ireland as journalist killed during riots PA Violence erupts in Northern Ireland as journalist killed during riots PA Violence erupts in Northern Ireland as journalist killed during riots The scene on Fanad Drive the following day PA Violence erupts in Northern Ireland as journalist killed during riots PA Violence had broken out earlier in the evening, following searches in Creggan that police said aimed to disrupt planned attacks by dissident republicans. Footage showed Molotov cocktails being launched at police vehicles and cars being set on fire in the street, before a hooded man opened fire with a handgun. The man, dressed in dark clothing and with his head and face covered, could be seen leaning around the barrier surrounding the Creggan Day Centre to aim towards police. He fired two shots, three seconds apart, with what appeared to be a handgun before screaming could be heard. The suspect then left and suspected accomplices could be seen crouching to the ground where the gunman stood, potentially to pick up evidence. Det Supt Murphy said police had received widespread support from the public, with more than 140 people so far coming forward with photos and footage. I still want to hear from anyone who can tell us anything they know, he added. I would urge anyone who has any information to contact my team of detectives. Sara Canning, partner of murdered journalist Lyra McKee, slams Theresa May as 'derelict' in her duty to Northern Ireland The New IRA claimed responsibility for the attack, which followed a campaign of parcel bombs sent to targets in mainland Britain and a car bombing in Derry. The terrorist group classed the police operation in Creggan, which was to prevent violence during commemorations for the Easter Rising, as an incursion by heavily armed British crown forces. We have instructed our volunteers to take the utmost care in future when engaging the enemy, and put in place measures to help ensure this, a statement said. Recommended The writing is on the wall in Derry for those who killed Lyra McKee In the course of attacking the enemy Lyra McKee was tragically killed while standing beside enemy forces. The IRA offer our full and sincere apologies to the partner, family and friends of Lyra McKee for her death. The shooting shocked Derry, coming almost exactly 21 years after the Good Friday agreement was struck with the aim of bringing peace to Northern Ireland. Pro-IRA murals have been vandalised in the city, amid protests, vigils and tributes to Ms McKees life and work. At her funeral, a priest received a standing ovation after asking "why it takes the death of a 29-year-old woman with her whole life in front of her" for republican and unionist politicians to stand together. Ms McKee worked as an editor for California-based news site Mediagazer and had freelanced for publications including The Independent. A new mural of Lyra McKee in Belfast city centre (PA) One piece explored the treatment of the LGBT community and Catholics in Northern Ireland and another explored the impact on sectarian violence on the Good Friday Agreement generation and suicides. Ms McKee had written a book on the Troubles and had been investigating the disappearance and young men for her second book The Lost Boys. Her last tweet showed a photo of burning cars and police vehicles at the scene of the unrest with the caption: Derry tonight. Absolute madness. Creggan, a large housing estate on the outskirts of Derry, saw frequent attacks on the British Army during the Troubles and was controlled for a period by the IRA. Recent years have seen regeneration projects carried out but a recent report by the Institute for Conflict Research found that sectarian violence and vigilantism persists. Last week, a republican councillor won local elections in the ward where Ms McKee was murdered. Anyone with information is asked to call police on 101, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111, or upload footage to the Major Incident Public Portal. A woman who was walking alongside her boyfriend when he was killed by terrorists on London Bridge has said she had a premonition about an attack. Christine Delcros broke down as she told an inquest how she and Xavier Thomas, 45, had arrived for a holiday in London earlier on 3 June 2017 from France. Mr Thomas wanted to walk from their hotel, near the Tower of London, to have a cocktail in the Shard. Just before we reached the bridge I told him ... we had to go somewhere else, Ms Delcros told the Old Bailey, speaking through an interpreter. I had so many premonitions about terror attacks from the day before and I could feel it. But I did not tell him, in fact, and to please me he started searching on his phone for another place but it is late now. London Bridge Terror Attack Show all 16 1 /16 London Bridge Terror Attack London Bridge Terror Attack Armed police on Borough High Street as police are dealing with a "major incident" at London Bridge PA London Bridge Terror Attack Armed Police talk to members of the public outside London Bridge Hospital as police are dealing with a "major incident" at London Bridge PA London Bridge Terror Attack Police Officers outside the Barrowboy and Banker Public House on Borough High Street as police are dealing with a "major incident" at London Bridge PA London Bridge Terror Attack Armed Police talk to members of the public outside London Bridge Hospital as police are dealing with a "major incident" at London Bridge PA London Bridge Terror Attack Armed police on Borough High Street as police deal with a 'major incident' at London Bridge PA London Bridge Terror Attack Emergency services near the scene of the incident Screengrab London Bridge Terror Attack People run down Borough High Street as police are dealing with a "major incident" at London Bridge Reuters London Bridge Terror Attack Emergency services arrive at the scene near Borough market at London Bridge Carl Court/Getty Images London Bridge Terror Attack Emergency personnel on London Bridge as police are dealing with a "major incident" at London Bridge PA London Bridge Terror Attack Police sniffer dogs on London Bridge as police are dealing with a "major incident" at London Bridge PA London Bridge Terror Attack A second helicopter lands on London Bridge as police are responding to three incidents in the capital, amid reports that a vehicle collided with pedestrians on London Bridge, Scotland Yard said. Officers are dealing with reports of stabbings in Borough Market, where armed officers attended and shots were fired. They are also at an incident in the Vauxhall area PA London Bridge Terror Attack Police attend to an incident on London Bridge in London REUTERS London Bridge Terror Attack Police attend to an incident on London Bridge in London, Britain Reuters London Bridge Terror Attack A police officer escorts members of the public to safety at London Bridge Getty Images London Bridge Terror Attack Police attend to an incident on London Bridge in London, Britain Reuters London Bridge Terror Attack Police attend to an incident near London Bridge in London, Britain Reuters He said, Thats OK, its a magnificent view, and he had planned everything properly accordingly and not to disappoint him I said OK. I just called my daughter and he has a younger son so he called his son and after that we went. After that I do not remember at the time of the van. The inquest has been played CCTV footage of the couple walking onto London Bridge, holding hands, minutes before terrorists ploughed a hired van into pedestrians. The pair were seen strolling near the edge of the bridge as the vehicle came up behind them and mounted the pavement. Ms Delcros said she remembered being on the bridge and had the feeling that something was not normal. Suddenly I was under the impression there was a lot of light and a van that mounted the pavement in the exact fashion to make sure they were not going to miss us. Mr Thomas, a father-of-two, was thrown into the River Thames and Ms Delcros was severely injured. Crying, she told the court: I thought that I had died I have no recollection of the crash. Xavier Thomas pictured with his girlfriend Christine Delcros (Facebook) Ms Delcros remembered a man coming to help her holding her head as she regained consciousness. I asked, Wheres Xavier?, she said, recalling extreme pain. He tried to look for him but he could not find him. I ordered him to look for him. Ms Delcros said she was still madly in love with Xavier, who was the first of eight victims killed in the van and knife rampage. Mr Thomas and Canadian Christine Archibald, 30, were struck by the van, before the terrorists fatally stabbed Alexandre Pigeard, 26, Sara Zelenak, 21, Kirsty Boden, 28, Sebastien Belanger, 36, James McMullan, 32, and Ignacio Echeverria, 39. The rampage only ended when armed police shot the three terrorists dead, 10 minutes after they mounted the pavement on London Bridge. BBC journalist Holly Jones said she checked the water for signs of Mr Thomas after helping Ms Delcros. She said she saw the demented driver, believed to be Youssef Zaghba, speeding towards her after she walked past the French couple. I remember being stood frozen in fear, Ms Jones said. Something in the back of my mind told me to get out of the way. I jumped to the right towards the railings. At that point the van went past me. I could feel the wind of the van directly behind. The hired van used in the attack, which crashed into railings (PA) Ms Jones said she remembered the French couple who looked very happy together on the bridge and saw Ms Delcros on the pavement. Those who did this try to separate us but they did the opposite, she added. We are not victims of terror, we are survivors. A man who was taking photographs from London Bridge told the inquest he saw a commotion with screams and shouts coming from the northern end. Mark Roberts estimated that the hired Hertz van was travelling at 30mph or 40mph when it started deliberately steering and aiming at people. I realised this is not an accident, he added. It started driving along the pavement towards me. There was one group of people, which included [Ms Delcros and Mr Thomas], 20 yards away. I was thinking I should find some cover and I looked around and there was not really anywhere to go so I was frozen to the spot. Mr Roberts said he thought he was next in line, but suddenly the van steered away towards a large group of people and threw a woman into the air like a rag doll. Gareth Patterson QC, representing six of the victims families, questioned whether barriers which were installed on London Bridge after the attack would have saved Mr Thomas and Ms Archibald. The lawyer said that two months after a hire car was used in the Westminster attack, there wasnt a single additional obstacle that had been placed in the path of any terrorist trying to get their hands yet again on a rental vehicle. Mr Patterson said it only took an hour of phone calls for another of the attackers, Khuram Butt, to hire the van from Hertz, even though the known Islamist had been under investigation by both MI5 and counterterror police. Dominic Adamson, a lawyer representing Mr Thomass family, questioned why he was not rescued from the River Thames on the night of the attack. Mr Thomas and Ms Delcros were caught on CCTV from a bus walking along London Bridge before the van struck (Metropolitan Police) The inquest heard that marine police unit searched the water after witnesses reported a person being thrown in, but did not find anyone. Mr Thomass body was found downstream three days later and his cause of death was found to be immersion in water. The inquest heard that a marine police boat arrived three minutes after receiving reports of a person in the water and conducted a hasty search. The vessel was diverted from the river search and helped an injured woman at a riverside pub after concluding that Mr Thomas was probably lost, but three lifeboats continued looking. PC Nicholas Bultitude said: I carried out a search of the river and I was satisfied if anyone was in the river floating on the surface in the vicinity of London Bridge we would have found it. When I made the decision, so far as I was concerned, if someone has gone in then tragically they are lost. I made the decision to depart from it. Mr Adamson questioned the decision but PC Bultitude insisted the unfortunately named hasty search was not shoddy in any way. We covered every inch of that river in a desperate attempt to recover anyone in there, he added. Ben Hayday, senior coastguard officer, told the court there were four vessels involved in the structured search and he was comfortable with releasing one. Additional reporting by PA Archaeologists have recreated in painstaking detail what they called the UKs answer to Tutankhamuns tomb a royal burial site dating back to Anglo-Saxon times discovered by the side of a road in Essex. They believe the burial chamber, unearthed near a pub and an Aldi supermarket, may have held the remains of Seaxa, brother of King Saebert. Scientists have spent 15 years excavating the site in Prittlewell, Southend-on-Sea. They have pieced together artefacts, some of which are 1,400 years old, to build a new picture of how the chamber looked when it was first created. Newly analysed objects suggest the tomb is older than previously thought, ruling out a previous hypothesis that it housed the deceased king himself. Researchers at the Museum of London Archaeology (Mola) estimated the structure took 113 working days to build, representing a huge investment in skilled labour, as well as materials. 'British version of Tutankhamuns tomb' found in Essex - in pictures Show all 8 1 /8 'British version of Tutankhamuns tomb' found in Essex - in pictures 'British version of Tutankhamuns tomb' found in Essex - in pictures A reconstruction of the burial chamber believed to be that of Seaxa, brother of King Saebert, who died between 575AD and 605AD PA 'British version of Tutankhamuns tomb' found in Essex - in pictures The only surviving example of painted Anglo-Saxon woodwork in Britain, found at the burial site in Prittlewell, Essex PA 'British version of Tutankhamuns tomb' found in Essex - in pictures Gold coins discovered in the burial chamber at Prittlewell, Essex PA 'British version of Tutankhamuns tomb' found in Essex - in pictures A gold belt buckle discovered in the burial chamber at Prittlewell, Essex PA 'British version of Tutankhamuns tomb' found in Essex - in pictures Conservator Claire Reed inspects the remains of a wooden drinking vessel found in the burial chamber at Prittlewell, Essex PA 'British version of Tutankhamuns tomb' found in Essex - in pictures Conservator Claire Reed inspects decorated blue and green glass beakers that were discovered in the burial chamber at Prittlewell, Essex PA 'British version of Tutankhamuns tomb' found in Essex - in pictures Archaeologists excavate the burial chamber in Prittlewell, Essex PA 'British version of Tutankhamuns tomb' found in Essex - in pictures The royal burial site at a roadside in Prittlewell, Essex PA The site was the earliest Christian Anglo-Saxon princely burial found in the UK, said research director, Sophie Jackson. She added: I think its our equivalent of Tutankhamuns tomb. Getting an intact version of this and seeing how everything is positioned and what hes got with him. I think the thing thats so strange about it is that it was such an unpromising-looking site. Its between a bit of railway and a bit of road, essentially a verge. Its not where youd expect to find it. A reconstruction drawing of the Prittlewell princely burial chamber based on years of research (Museum of London Archaeology) Work began on the site in 2003, and among the items discovered were a painted box, drinking horns and a flagon originating from the Byzantine empire, as well as gold foil crosses, suggesting the dead male had converted to Christianity. The box is the only surviving example of painted Anglo-Saxon woodwork in Britain. The male, believed to have been at least adolescent in age, would have stood about 5ft 8in when he died around the year 580, researchers said. Missionaries sent by Pope Gregory I to convert the Anglo-Saxons only landed in Kent in 597. Saebert died in about 616, meaning the tomb cannot be his. Experts used organic material from drinking horns found inside for radio-carbon dating. A team of 40 worked on the project, funded by Southend-on-Sea Borough Council and Historic England. The find and subsequent research has helped transform our understanding of [Anglo-Saxons] early history, Professor Simon Keynes of Trinity College, Cambridge, told The Independent. Prittlewell was from the moment of its discovery in 2003 seen to be something very special, which would do for the East Saxons what Sutton Hoo has been doing since 1939 for the East Angles: cast new light on the elite, as shown by their burial customs, during the period of their conversion to Christianity in the late sixth and early seventh centuries, he said. He added: We know the basic story from Bedes Ecclesiastical History of the English People, written in 731, but Sutton Hoo and Prittlewell give us the material evidence, in the form of the elite or princely burial rituals, which take us closer to the material realities at this elevated level of society. Finds like Sutton Hoo, Prittlewell, and the Staffordshire Hoard add the dimensions which only material evidence of this kind can provide. Sutton Hoo in Suffolk is a hugely significant archaeological area where a trove of Anglo-Saxon artefacts and graves have been found since its discovery in 1939. The Staffordshire Hoard, unearthed near Lichfield in 2009, is the largest-ever find of Anglo-Saxon gold and silver artefacts, numbering some 4,000. Support free-thinking journalism and attend Independent events Objects from the Prittlewell site are due to go on permanent display at Southend Central Museum from 11 May, having previously been shown around the world. Additional reporting by Press Association Tesco has vowed to explore eradicating sow stalls from its Thai supply chain after animal welfare campaigners accused the supermarket chain of selling pork products from farms where mother pigs are kept in steel cages no bigger than a fridge. Also referred to a pregnancy cages, sow stalls have been banned in the UK since 1999, but World Animal Protection accused Tesco Lotus, Tesco Group's second largest business outside the UK, of selling pork products from animals kept in them. About 40 per cent of pigs are kept outside in the UK where they can roam free and perform more natural behaviours when giving birth, while the rest are kept indoors in group housing, World Animal Protection said. Why should a mother pig have to suffer under the Tesco brand just because shes been born and raised in Thailand." said Ian Woodhurst, the organisation's farming campaigns manager. She would normally roam around foraging for food, socialise with other pigs and build a nest for their piglets. On a factory farm she cannot do any of this, trapped in a tiny steel cage where she can barely move. Supermarkets have the power to make a change for farm animals. How they reach your plate: live animal transport worldwide Show all 16 1 /16 How they reach your plate: live animal transport worldwide How they reach your plate: live animal transport worldwide Melbourne, Australia, 2017 A crowded transport truck Jo-Anne McArthur / We Animals How they reach your plate: live animal transport worldwide Melbourne, Australia, 2017 A thirsty pig on transport truck is given water by a Melbourne Pig Save activist Jo-Anne McArthur / We Animals How they reach your plate: live animal transport worldwide Toronto, Canada Pigs being transported to slaughter in freezing weather Jo-Anne McArthur / We Animals How they reach your plate: live animal transport worldwide Toronto, Canada A volunteer gives water to thirsty pigs Jo-Anne McArthur / We Animals How they reach your plate: live animal transport worldwide Toronto, Canada Pigs en route to an abattoir How they reach your plate: live animal transport worldwide Canada A cow looks out of transport truck just outside the slaughterhouse gates Jo-Anne McArthur / We Animals How they reach your plate: live animal transport worldwide Spain Stacked crates of rabbits awaiting slaughter Jo-Anne McArthur / Animal Equality How they reach your plate: live animal transport worldwide Australia A pig finds some air at a sale yard Jo-Anne McArthur / We Animals How they reach your plate: live animal transport worldwide Toronto, Canada Pigs in a transport lorry en route to an abattoir Jo-Anne McArthur / We Animals How they reach your plate: live animal transport worldwide Melbourne, Australia, 2017 A pig in a transport truck touches noses with a man Jo-Anne McArthur / We Animals How they reach your plate: live animal transport worldwide Melbourne, Australia, 2017 Chickens in transport crates Jo-Anne McArthur / We Animals How they reach your plate: live animal transport worldwide Spain, 2014 A rabbit's nose and feet poke out from between plastic crates Jo-Anne McArthur / Animal Equality How they reach your plate: live animal transport worldwide Spain A rabbit looks out between plastic crate slats Jo-Anne McArthur / Animal Equality How they reach your plate: live animal transport worldwide Nepal, 2017 A chicken looks out through fencing on a crowded transport truck Jo-Anne McArthur/We Animals How they reach your plate: live animal transport worldwide Spain Broiler chickens are captured and loaded into transport crates for slaughter Jo-Anne McArthur / Animal Equality How they reach your plate: live animal transport worldwide Israel, 2018 A ship carrying up to 30,000 sheep and cattle from Australia to Israel arrives at port after almost three weeks at sea Jo-Anne McArthur / Israel Against Live Shipments Were urging Tesco to stop this misery and improve the lives of mother pigs on farms that supply its 2,000 Tesco Lotus stores across Thailand. The organisation also called on Tesco to introduce a global pig welfare policy to stop this barbaric practice on farms that supply its stores worldwide. It has already had succeeded in persuading CP Foods, a Thai pork producer, to get sows out of cages in their operations by 2025. Tesco said no Thai pork is sold in the UK however it said it was working with its suppliers in the region to explore how it could move sows out of stalls and into group housing. World Animal Protection has called on Tesco to eradicate sow stalls from its Tesco Lotus supply chain in Thailand. (World Animal Protection) Tesco Lotus is Tesco Groups second largest business outside the UK. It operates a network of more than 2,000 stores across Thailand. We take care to uphold high standards for animal welfare right across our supply chains which we continuously review according to the latest scientific advice," a spokesman said. "All the pork meat sourced by our Thai business is certified by the Thai government which sets the standards for animal welfare in that country. We are currently working with our suppliers in the region to explore how we can exceed these standards by moving sows out of stalls and into group housing. Theresa Mays chief Brexit minister has complained that Europeans are prone to lazy thinking about Brexit and for some reason associate the project with Nigel Farage and the Little Englander mentality. Speaking at an EU summit in Sibiu, Romania, on Thursday morning, Stephen Barclay said Europes politicians should be more positive about Britains departure. EU leaders are not expected to discuss Brexit at the leaders meeting, which was billed ahead of time as in principle Brexit-free by officials. But away from the main action, Mr Barclay took part in a panel discussion, where he lectured Europeans over their attitude towards the UKs vote to leave the bloc. Brexit from my perspective is about shared values, wanting to have a political relationship, identifying shared challenges, but being able to look forward rather than to constantly hark back to a vote three years ago, he said. Mr Barclay, for whom the discussion was his first major public appearance on the continent since being appointed in November, added that the decision to leave was often seen in Europe as something to be punished rather than as an opportunity to be seized. Too often I think there is a lazy thinking on Brexit, the minister said, arguing that the referendum result was a vote for confidence, optimism, a desire to be more global. It certainly was not the Nigel Farage Little Englander portrayal. He added that the continents politicians should consider the possibilities that the future relationship between Britain and Europe would bring. EU leaders are gathering in Sibiu, Romania, for a summit (EPA) (Epa) Mr Barclay also gave a speech in the margins of the summit, which was attended by most EU leaders except Theresa May. We have always said we are not exiting Europe, but we share the same values, nor can we opt out of the challenges identified by the [European] Commission leading up to this conference in terms of security, cyber and the environment, he told delegates, adding: Historically the UK has always been outward in its outlook. The Brexit Secretary also claimed that the Leave vote was the will of a new generation within UK politics rather than a vote primarily driven by the elderly, as most research suggests it was Farage launches his new Brexit Party: in pictures Show all 10 1 /10 Farage launches his new Brexit Party: in pictures Farage launches his new Brexit Party: in pictures Nigel Farage speaks at the launch of his new Brexit Party's campaign for the European elections Reuters Farage launches his new Brexit Party: in pictures Brexit Party candidate Annunziata Rees-Mogg, sister of Conservative MP Jacob Rees-Mogg, speaks at the launch AFP/Getty Farage launches his new Brexit Party: in pictures A supporter waits for Farage to speak AFP/Getty Farage launches his new Brexit Party: in pictures Supporters wait for Farage to speak AFP/Getty Farage launches his new Brexit Party: in pictures Farage's socks Reuters Farage launches his new Brexit Party: in pictures Farage and prospective candidate Annunziata Rees-Mogg wait at the launch AFP/Getty Farage launches his new Brexit Party: in pictures Supporters listen as Farage speaks AFP/Getty Farage launches his new Brexit Party: in pictures Free T-shirts for all attendees AFP/Getty Farage launches his new Brexit Party: in pictures Posters on the seats for supporters of the Brexit Party AFP/Getty Farage launches his new Brexit Party: in pictures A safety sign is pictured AFP/Getty In more recent years some more established figures have been slow to accept that a new generation within UK politics wish to address the challenges of our age, the challenges we are looking at in this conference, like climate change, like economic growth, but to do so in ways that work with our neighbours whilst also offering scope for more flexibility and innovation, he said We, the UK and the EU, face shared challenges, with shared values, but post-Brexit will do so from a different starting point in which the UK is not part of the EU, but it remains a part of Europe. The Sibiu summit was called by EU leaders to talk about the future of the bloc following the shocks of Britains departure, the migration crisis, and financial crisis. However, delays to the Brexit process mean that the UK has not left yet. The UKs chief negotiator jokingly asked whether he could have Belgian citizenship after Brexit, according to his EU counterpart. Behind-the-scenes footage shot for a BBC documentary shows Guy Verhofstadt, a former Belgian prime minister, recounting a story about Olly Robbins to his colleagues. Olly Robbins came to me and said Guy, can I become a Belgium citizen after this whole thing because I dont think I will return, Mr Verhofstadt told his team, who appeared surprised and amused by the anecdote. The comment is likely to have been meant as a joke because Mr Robbins is not thought to be eligible for Belgian citizenship. But the revelation is still likely to enrage Brexiteers who are suspicious that Mr Robbins does not share their enthusiasm for leaving the EU, and wants to frustrate Britains departure. Friends of Mr Robbins suggested that the joke could have been taken out of context by the senior EU official, who represents the parliament in Brexit talks. Mr Robbins is the prime ministers Europe advisor based in the Cabinet Office. He took charge of negotiations with the EU mid-way through talks, after Brexit Secretary David Davis was side-lined due to lack of progress. Brexiteer suspicion of Mr Robbins was fuelled last year after he was overheard in a Brussels bar ruling out no-deal, in contravention of Theresa Mays stated policy. BBC camera crews were given access to Brexit officials in the European parliament to make Brexit: Behind Closed Doors, a two-part series focusing on the team around Guy Verhofstadt. Other scenes from the documentary show EU officials having completely lost confidence in the UKs ability to negotiate, with frustration regularly boiling over at behaviour emanating from the government in London. In one telling scene, official brands Theresa Mays approach to one aspect of Brexit talks insane and pathetic. An attempt by pro-EU political parties to form a Remain alliance for next months Peterborough by-election has ended in failure, with Change UK blaming Labour supporters for negotiations breaking down. The Liberal Democrats, the Green Party and Change UK had held discussions in the hope of uniting behind an independent candidate supportive of another Brexit referendum. Change UK blamed Labour figures for the breakdown, saying Labour supporters of the campaign for a second referendum had intervened to object to the pro-Remain parties uniting behind a single candidate. The Peterborough by-election was triggered when voters in the city recalled former Labour MP Fiona Onasanya, who lost her seat after being jailed for perverting the course of justice. She was convicted after being found to have lied about a speeding ticket, and has said she will not stand in the upcoming election. The seat has traditionally alternated between Labour and the Conservatives, and Labour won it in 2017 by just 600 votes. It is understood that the pro-Remain parties had agreed to support the same independent candidate in the by-election but that the person decided to withdraw from the contest shortly before the deadline after pressure from figures associated with the Labour Party. In a statement, Change UK MP Gavin Shuker said: Change UK, the Green Party, the Liberal Democrats and Renew have been working hard these last few days on a joint approach to the Peterborough by-election, recognising that we need to put the countrys interests first, securing a peoples vote and remaining in the European Union. We all agreed to stand down any candidates we might field in favour of a genuinely independent, pro-peoples vote and pro-Remain candidate who had expressed an interest and intention to stand. However, senior Labour figures, including senior figures campaigning for a peoples vote, made it clear that they would strenuously disrupt the campaign and obstruct an independent candidate, driven by fears that it would harm their party in Peterborough. In a similar statement, the Green Party said it had hoped to agree a joint candidate but that it had become impossible for this to proceed. It said it would therefore field its own candidate while continuing to explore options which might best benefit its strong call for a peoples vote and remaining in the European Union. The Liberal Democrats said they were the strongest Remain party and would be fielding Beki Sellick, a local businesswoman and campaigner, as its candidate. It is understood that Change UK did not register a candidate in time for Thursdays deadline. Which MPs defected to form Change UK? Show all 12 1 /12 Which MPs defected to form Change UK? Which MPs defected to form Change UK? Change UK Details on the individual MPs are in the following photos Reuters Which MPs defected to form Change UK? Heidi Allen Anti-Brexit MP for South Cambridgeshire resigned from the Conservative party on February 20 PA Which MPs defected to form Change UK? Chuka Umunna MP for Streatham since 2010 and prominent People's Vote supporter PA Which MPs defected to form Change UK? Anna Soubry The prominent anti-Brexit MP for Broxtowe resigned from the Conservative party on February 20 PA Which MPs defected to form Change UK? Luciana Berger MP for Liverpool Wavertree since 2010, resigned from the Labour Party over bullying and anti-semitism PA Which MPs defected to form Change UK? Sarah Wollaston Anti-Brexit MP for Totnes resigned from the Conservative party on February 20 PA Which MPs defected to form Change UK? Joan Ryan MP for Enfield North resigned from the Labour party on February 19 citing its tolerance of a "culture of anti-Jewish racism" PA Which MPs defected to form Change UK? Ann Coffey MP for Stockport since 1992 Chris McAndrew / UK Parliament Which MPs defected to form Change UK? Gavin Shuker MP for Luton South since 2010 Getty Which MPs defected to form Change UK? Chris Leslie MP for Nottingham East since 2010 PA Which MPs defected to form Change UK? Mike Gapes MP for Ilford South since 1992 PA Which MPs defected to form Change UK? Angela Smith MP for Penistone and Stocksbridge since 2010 The pro-EU parties had hoped to work together to counter the strong Leave vote in the area and the popularity of Nigel Farages Brexit Party, which has surged in polls for European parliament elections later this month. The anti-EU party is fielding Mike Greene, a former contestant on Channel 4s The Secret Millionaire, as its candidate in Peterborough. Esther McVey will enter the Tory leadership race after securing enough support from party colleagues, she has said. The former pensions secretary confirmed she would throw her hat in the ring to succeed Theresa May, who told Tory MPs in March that she would step down once the first stage of Brexit was delivered. Ms McVey joins an already crowded field of would-be Tory leaders, with cabinet ministers Andrea Leadsom and Rory Stewart openly declaring their intentions to stand for the position in recent days. Senior Tories such as Jeremy Hunt, Sajid Javid and Matthew Hancock are widely seen as on manoeuvres, while top Brexiteers Boris Johnson and Dominic Raab have been canvassing support from the backbenches. Mark Harper, a former Conservative chief whip and immigration minister, has also refused to rule out standing. In an interview with The House magazine, he insisted his focus was on trying to deliver Brexit but did not deny rumours that he is considering a leadership bid. He said: Ive been asked that question before. My view at the moment is particularly given the message from the local elections, is the focus of all of us now should be on trying to deliver what we promised. We need to look at what is ahead of us. Shes said shes going to go, but its a question for another day. Opposing protesters flock to parliament on would be date of Brexit Show all 30 1 /30 Opposing protesters flock to parliament on would be date of Brexit Opposing protesters flock to parliament on would be date of Brexit Pro-Brexit leave the European Union supporters attend a rally in Parliament Square after the final leg of the "March to Leave" in London AP Opposing protesters flock to parliament on would be date of Brexit The protest march which started on March 16 in Sunderland, north east England, finished on what was the original date for Brexit to happen before the recent extension Reuters Opposing protesters flock to parliament on would be date of Brexit AP Opposing protesters flock to parliament on would be date of Brexit Reuters Opposing protesters flock to parliament on would be date of Brexit PA Opposing protesters flock to parliament on would be date of Brexit Reuters Opposing protesters flock to parliament on would be date of Brexit EPA Opposing protesters flock to parliament on would be date of Brexit A Brexit supporter sips a can of Stella in protests outside of the Houses of Parliament AFP/Getty Opposing protesters flock to parliament on would be date of Brexit Dedicated anti-Brexit campaigner Steve Bray and likewise pro-Brexit campaigner Joseph Afrane go head to head near the Houses of Parliament AFP/Getty Opposing protesters flock to parliament on would be date of Brexit A pro-Brexit marching band in Parliament Square Getty Opposing protesters flock to parliament on would be date of Brexit Remain supporters wave EU flags from a bus in Parliament Square PA Opposing protesters flock to parliament on would be date of Brexit A Brexit supporter shouts slogans outside parliament EPA Opposing protesters flock to parliament on would be date of Brexit A Brexit supporter protests outside parliament Reuters Opposing protesters flock to parliament on would be date of Brexit A Brexit supporter protests outside of the Houses of Parliament Getty Opposing protesters flock to parliament on would be date of Brexit Brexit supporters protest outside of the Houses of Parliament REUTERS Opposing protesters flock to parliament on would be date of Brexit A pro-Brexit flag is waved in Parliament Square AP Opposing protesters flock to parliament on would be date of Brexit The March to Leave nears the Houses of Parliament Reuters Opposing protesters flock to parliament on would be date of Brexit A Brexit protester holds a sign outside parliament EPA Opposing protesters flock to parliament on would be date of Brexit Brexit supporters carry the coffin of democracy AFP/Getty Opposing protesters flock to parliament on would be date of Brexit Brexit supporters march outside parliament AFP/Getty Opposing protesters flock to parliament on would be date of Brexit Brexit supporters take part in the March to Leave protest in London PA Opposing protesters flock to parliament on would be date of Brexit Brexit supporters protest outside parliament AFP/Getty Opposing protesters flock to parliament on would be date of Brexit A Brexit supporter holds a sign outside the Houses of Parliament Getty Opposing protesters flock to parliament on would be date of Brexit A man holds satirical paintings of politicians Reuters Opposing protesters flock to parliament on would be date of Brexit An pro-Brexit float on the March to Leave march in London Reuters Opposing protesters flock to parliament on would be date of Brexit Far-right activist Tommy Robinson addresses protesters outside the Houses of Parliament Getty Opposing protesters flock to parliament on would be date of Brexit A Brexit supporter outside the Houses of Parliament Reuters Opposing protesters flock to parliament on would be date of Brexit A Tommy Robinson supporter arrives at the Houses of Parliament Getty Opposing protesters flock to parliament on would be date of Brexit A jogger gestures rudely at a Brexit supporter outside of the Houses of Parliament AFP/Getty Opposing protesters flock to parliament on would be date of Brexit A Brexit supporter outside the Houses of Parliament PA Pressed on the issue on TalkRadio, Ms McVey said: I have always said quite clearly if I got enough support from my colleagues, yes I would. Now people have come forward and I have got that support, so I will be going forward. Ms McVey, a former GMTV presenter, took a tough stance on welfare at the Department for Work Pensions (DWP) where she presided over part of the botched universal credit rollout. She was forced to apologise for misleading parliament after she downplayed a critical report on the flagship welfare reform by the National Audit Office. Ms McVey, the MP for Tatton, resigned from the cabinet in November in protest at Ms Mays Brexit deal, but shifted her stance to back the plan in the most recent Commons vote. The MP, who is a prominent Brexiteer, said the Conservatives needed a leader who believes in Brexit, and had belief in the opportunities it could bring. Elsewhere, David Gauke, the justice secretary, issued a veiled rebuke against Brexiteer colleagues in a speech where he warned populist politics would make us a poorer and a more divided nation. Conservatism should be broad, not narrow; open, not closed; forward-looking, not yearning for a mythical past, he said. It should be based on an appeal to the common-sense, pragmatic instincts of the majority. We should seek to unite, not divide. One Nation Conservatism. Pragmatic, practical, reasonable but determined. That is the character of the British people. That is the character of Conservatism at its best. Support free-thinking journalism and attend Independent events It comes as the prime minister was granted a stay of execution by frustrated Tory MPs, who have been discussing whether to change their internal rules to oust her. Backbench Tory leader Sir Graham Brady said Ms May would meet the 1922 Committees 18-strong executive next week amid grass roots fury over the partys worst local elections performance in 24 years. He also suggested she could make a final push to get her Brexit deal through parliament before European elections on 23 May. Conservative MP Johnny Mercer says he has withdrawn his support for the government over the historical prosecution of British servicemen. A former Army officer, Mr Mercer called on Theresa May in a letter to end the macabre spectacle of elderly veterans being dragged back to Northern Ireland to face possible prosecution. In his letter to the prime minister, the Plymouth Moor View MP said he found investigations into historic allegations surrounding ex-services personnel personally offensive He said he was not to prepared to vote for Government legislation - except on Brexit - until the Government took clear and concrete steps to end the abhorrent process. As you know, the historical prosecution of our servicemen and women is a matter that is personally offensive to me. Many are my friends; and I am from their tribe, he wrote. Remembering The Troubles in pictures Show all 15 1 /15 Remembering The Troubles in pictures Remembering The Troubles in pictures A British soldier attacks a protester in Derry on Bloody Sunday Getty Remembering The Troubles in pictures The Northern Ireland Civil Rights movement marches in London in 1968 to demand the same voting rights afforded to the rest of Britain Getty Remembering The Troubles in pictures The Northern Ireland Civil Rights Association marching on the streets of Derry in 1968 BBC Remembering The Troubles in pictures The Battle of the Bogside in Derry in August 1969 was among the first violent episodes of the Troubles The Battle of the Bogside in Derry in August 1969 was among the first violent episodes of the Troubles Getty Remembering The Troubles in pictures British soldiers take cover behind their armoured cars as they use CS gas to disperse rioters in Derry on Bloody Sunday PA Remembering The Troubles in pictures Hugh Gilmore (third left) clutches his stomach after being shot by a British soldier on Bloody Sunday. Gilmore was one of 14 to be shot dead on 30 January 1972 PA Remembering The Troubles in pictures A man receives attention after being shot on Bloody Sunday in Derry PA Remembering The Troubles in pictures A young man is led away by paramedics after being injured on Bloody Sunday PA Remembering The Troubles in pictures The British Embassy at Merrion Square in Dublin is bombed following a march to protest three days after the Bloody Sunday shootings Getty Remembering The Troubles in pictures Independent MO for Mid-Ulster Bernadette Devlin talks to the press after she hit Home Secretary Reginald Maudling for lying about the Bloody Sunday shootings in his statement to the House of Commons the day after the incident. Devlin had been in Derry at the time of the shootings and was moved to strike the Home Secretary after he claimed that British soldiers had only fired at protesters in defence Getty Remembering The Troubles in pictures Members of a Catholic community in Newry stage a protest against the Bloody Sunday shootings AFP/Getty Remembering The Troubles in pictures Relatives mourn over the coffin of a victim of Bloody Sunday on 1 April 1972 Getty Remembering The Troubles in pictures Thousands attend the annual Bloody Sunday memorial march in Derry on 30 January 1995 PA Remembering The Troubles in pictures UK prime minister Tony Blair and the Irish taoiseach Bertie Ahern sign the Good Friday Agreement in 1998 PA Remembering The Troubles in pictures A view over residential Derry in 2019 shows a mural on Rossville Street, where soldiers opened fire on Bloody Sunday Getty These repeated investigations with no new evidence, the macabre spectacle of elderly veterans being dragged back to Northern Ireland to face those who seek to re-fight that conflict through other means, without any protection from the Government who sent them almost 50 years ago, is too much. I will not be voting for any of the governments legislative actions outside of Brexit until legislation is brought forward to protect veterans from being repeatedly prosecuted for historical allegations. Mr Mercer has campaigned against the pursuit of legacy cases from the conflicts in Northern Ireland, Afghanistan and Iraq since he entered Parliament in 2015. In March, the Public Prosecution Service (PPS) of Northern Ireland announced one former British solider would face two murder charges over the Bloody Sunday shooting in Derry in 1972. A total of 13 people were killed in the incident after British paratroopers opened fire on what was classed as an illegal civil rights march through the Bogside area of the city. However, relatives of those who died have expressed disappointment that only one of the paratroopers, referred to only as Soldier F, will face trial. Mr Mercers intervention will be seen in Westminster as further evidence of the prime ministers crumbling authority. He recently accused the Tory whips office of contacting former Army comrades in an attempt to dig up dirt on him. Support free-thinking journalism and attend Independent events He wrote in his letter: It has not been an easy decision to make. But this incident with your chief whip has forced my hand. It appears that my values and ethos may be slowly, but very firmly, separating from a party I joined in 2015. There was no immediate response from Downing Street to his letter. Addiitional reporting by PA Vince Cable's Liberal Democrats are to launch their European elections campaign manifesto today under the blunt slogan: "Bollocks to Brexit". In an unequivocally anti-Brexit document, the party calls for the "failed project" of Britain's withdrawal from the European Union to be disbanded. It sets out a "blueprint for what the UK could achieve if Brexit was stopped" according to the Liberal Democrat leader Sir Vince, who will formally unveil the manifesto this evening in east London. A special edition of the manifesto has the words "Bollocks to Brexit" a familiar message of enthusiastic Remain campaigners emblazoned across the front cover while a second edition offers "stop Brexit" as its slogan for activists after a less crude message to deliver to voters on the doorstep. Farage launches his new Brexit Party: in pictures Show all 10 1 /10 Farage launches his new Brexit Party: in pictures Farage launches his new Brexit Party: in pictures Nigel Farage speaks at the launch of his new Brexit Party's campaign for the European elections Reuters Farage launches his new Brexit Party: in pictures Brexit Party candidate Annunziata Rees-Mogg, sister of Conservative MP Jacob Rees-Mogg, speaks at the launch AFP/Getty Farage launches his new Brexit Party: in pictures A supporter waits for Farage to speak AFP/Getty Farage launches his new Brexit Party: in pictures Supporters wait for Farage to speak AFP/Getty Farage launches his new Brexit Party: in pictures Farage's socks Reuters Farage launches his new Brexit Party: in pictures Farage and prospective candidate Annunziata Rees-Mogg wait at the launch AFP/Getty Farage launches his new Brexit Party: in pictures Supporters listen as Farage speaks AFP/Getty Farage launches his new Brexit Party: in pictures Free T-shirts for all attendees AFP/Getty Farage launches his new Brexit Party: in pictures Posters on the seats for supporters of the Brexit Party AFP/Getty Farage launches his new Brexit Party: in pictures A safety sign is pictured AFP/Getty Sir Vince will also outline his desire for an emergency 7.5bn support fund for those affected by Brexit uncertainty, and increased cooperation with European allies in "tackling the climate emergency" facing the planet. "Liberal Democrats were the first major political party to call for a zero-carbon Britain; we believe this target must be met by 2045, contributing to a zero-carbon EU by 2050," it adds. Speaking this evening Sir Vince will tell the party faithful that the Liberal Democrats are "unambiguous and honest", insisting: "We want to stop Brexit". A special edition of the Lib Dem European elections manifesto He will add: "The Conservatives have let their internal feud divide the country while Jeremy Corbyn's Labour Party has set out the biggest issue facing our country in decades. "Only as members of the EU can we take the big steps we need on climate change, protect consumers and build a strong economy. Our manifesto sets out a clear and positive vision for the UK within the EU, and we can achieve it by stopping Brexit. The Liberal Democrats, with over 100,000 members and 2,500 councillors across the country, are the strongest Remain voice going into the European Elections. Every Liberal Democrat vote is a vote to stop Brexit. Infamous wannabe Manhattan it-girl Anna Sorokin, also known as Anna Delvey, has been sentenced to four to 12 years for her financial schemes involving New York banks and hotels. Sorokin attempted to live a life of glitz and glam, posing as a German heiress with a $60m trust fund behind her, but her appearance was far from her reality. Promising payment via wire transfer, Sorokin would rent rooms and eat at restaurants with some of New Yorks well-known socialites, but that payment would always fall through. Sorokins scams were innovative and rather successful, getting her into some of the hottest events in Manhattan. A former Vanity Fair photo-editor went on vacation with Sorokin to Morocco and ending up footing the entire $69,000 bill. Sorokin attempted to obtain several million dollar loans to open an arts and culture club, for which she was rejected, but managed to obtain a $100,000 loan which she used for a high-end shopping spree. 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 Assistant district attorney Catherine McCaw said: The defendant didnt want to live an ordinary life, and she was willing to steal in order to get that. Sorokin, 28, has been ordered to repay nearly $200,000 in restitution, in addition to a $24,000 dollar fine. She was found guilty of multiple charges of fraud in April, including grand larceny in the second degree and theft of services. Judge Diane Kiesel noted that she herself was stunned by the depth of the defendants deception. The Guardian reported Immigration and Customs Enforcement has stated that they intend to deport Sorokin, who was born in Russia, back to Germany after she serves out her sentence as the faux-heiress overstayed her 2017 visa. Support free-thinking journalism and attend Independent events Sorokins story has been closely followed by the media, in similar fashion to Fyre Festivals Billy McFarland. Lengthy profiles at fashion magazines focused on Sorokins summer of scam. Shonda Rhimes is producing a Netflix series on Sorokin, Lena Dunham producing another for HBO. A Cuban combat pilot has finally been released after serving the longest ever jail term in the US for marijuana. Antonio Bascaro, now 84 years old, has been released after serving 39 years of a 60-year sentence for his part in a marijuana smuggling scheme in the late 1970s. Part of the reason Mr Bascaros sentence was so lengthy was due to the fact that he refused to cooperate with prosecutors, leading to a conspiracy charge as well. Mr Bascaro said: I refused to cooperate because my moral values and ethics, as well as my military training, kept me from using someone else or from testifying against another person to solve my problems. He continued: No one forced me to join the conspiracy. That is why I did not cooperate or try to use anyone else to save my neck. Mr Bascaro was an anti-communist rebel pilot who fought against the Castro regime, even receiving CIA training for the failed Bay of Pigs invasion. Pot smokers in Colorado welcome 'Green Wednesday' as marijuana sales become legal Show all 2 1 /2 Pot smokers in Colorado welcome 'Green Wednesday' as marijuana sales become legal Pot smokers in Colorado welcome 'Green Wednesday' as marijuana sales become legal Colorado-AP.jpg AP Pot smokers in Colorado welcome 'Green Wednesday' as marijuana sales become legal Cannabis-colorado_1.jpg AP Photo/Brennan Linsley But as a non-US citizen who was convicted of a major felony, he may face a new challenge: deportation. Support free-thinking journalism and attend Independent events His daughter, Myra Bascaro, is grateful for her fathers freedom, but is unnerved by the uncertainty of his future. Shes not sure where exactly her father can go, asking, To Cuba, where he could get arrested again for having fought against Fidel Castro? To Guatemala where he met my mother but where he has nothing and nobody... the country that deported him to the United States almost 40 years ago? A student killed in a school shooting in Denver, Colorado, was hailed a hero after classmates described how he attempted to tackle the gunman as shots rang out. Kendrick Castillo led the charge against their teenage classmate with two others, one of whom managed to wrestle the gun away. But 18-year-old Mr Castillo slumped to the ground. He was the only student to be killed, while eight others were injured. Authorities said the actions of Mr Castillo, his close friend Brendan Bialy and Joshua Jones minimised the bloodshed from Tuesday's attack at the school south of Denver. "Kendrick went out as a hero," Mr Bialy said. "He was a foot away from the shooter and instead of running the opposite direction he ran toward it." "Kendrick lunged at (the gunman), and he shot Kendrick, giving all of us enough time to get underneath our desks, to get ourselves safe, and to run across the room to escape, fellow classmate Nui Giasolli told NBC. Some are now calling for the school to be renamed in his honour. A member of the school's robotics club, Mr Castillo had an infectious smile and gentle sense of humour, according to friends. He worked part-time at a local manufacturing company that had offered him a job after an internship because he was such a standout employee. Recommended One dead and eight wounded after school pupils open fire on classmates "To find he went down as a hero, I'm not surprised. That's exactly who Kendrick was," said Rachel Short, president of the company, Baccara. Police said the shooting happened after two shooters walked into the school, "got deep inside the school, and engaged students in two separate locations". The injured includes Mr Jones, who was shot twice, according to a statement released by his family. Mr Bialy acknowledged that he was scared, but he said he was not going to cower for attackers he repeatedly called cowards. "They lost," he said. "They completely and utterly lost to good people." He was speaking as two teenagers made their first court appearances in connection with the shooting. Devon Erickson, 18, kept his head down with his black hair, streaked with purple dye, covering his face as he nodded in response to most of District Court Judge Theresa Slade's questions. At one point, the judge requested a verbal answer to whether he had any questions about the proceedings. Erickson simply replied "No". Maya McKinney, 16, whose lawyer said uses male pronouns and the name Alec, and has short brown hair, made eye contact with the judge and answered questions in a clear but quiet voice, saying "Yes, your honour" and "No, your honour". District attorney George Brauchler said he has not decided whether to file adult charges but added that McKinney is old enough to be charged as an adult without a judge's review. Formal charges are expected to be filed by Friday. Mr Brauchler said he could not discuss any motive or weapons used in the attack. Both suspects were students at the school, and they were not previously known to authorities, officials said. Additional reporting by AP Residents of Denver have narrowly voted to decriminalise hallucinogenic mushrooms, the first city in the US to do so. By a margin of 50.5 to 49.4, citizens of the liberal Colorado city passed a ballot measure known as Initiative 301. Under the measure, while the use of the mushrooms will not be become legal, arresting people for personal possession or use of psilocybin mushrooms will become the lowest law enforcement priority in the city and county of Denver. Its been one hell of a twenty-one-and-a-half hours, Initiative 301 campaign manager Kevin Matthews told the Denver Post If these results hold, this is an example of the absurd comedy of the great metaphor. Against all odds, we prevailed. This is what happens when a small team of dedicated and passionate people unite under a single idea to create change. Where is cannabis legal in the US? Show all 11 1 /11 Where is cannabis legal in the US? Where is cannabis legal in the US? Alaska Recreational cannabis use was made legal in Alaska in 2014 Getty Where is cannabis legal in the US? Washington Washington was among the first states to legalise cannabis in 2012 Getty Where is cannabis legal in the US? Michigan Recreational cannabis use was made legal in Michigan in 2018 Getty Where is cannabis legal in the US? Massachusetts Recreational cannabis use was made legal in Massachusetts in 2016 Getty Where is cannabis legal in the US? Colorado Colorado was among the first states to legalise cannabis in 2012 Getty Where is cannabis legal in the US? Vermont Since January 2018 it has been legal to posses up to one ounce and two cannabis plants in Vermont. Commercial sales are not legal Getty Where is cannabis legal in the US? California Recreational cannabis use was made legal in California in 2018 Getty Where is cannabis legal in the US? Illinois Recreational cannabis use was made legal in Illinois in 2019 Getty Images Where is cannabis legal in the US? Oregon It was made legal in Oregon to possess up to one ounce of cannabis in 2014 Getty Where is cannabis legal in the US? Maine Recreational cannabis use was made legal in Maine in 2016 Getty Where is cannabis legal in the US? Nevada Recreational cannabis use was made legal in Nevada in 2016 Getty The vote total must now be confirmed by Denver election officials. Even then, hallucinogenic mushrooms will remain illegal in Denver, as they are in the rest of the country, and their sale remains a serious crime. Denver decriminalised marijuana in 2005, a full seven years before Colorado became the first state to in the nation to legalise it. Marijuana moves further into mainstream with first university certification program in Canada Supporters of the use of mushrooms were unable to get a similar measure on the ballot last year in California. Activists in Oregon are hoping to vote on the issue in 2020. The move to decriminalise the fungi was led by the Denver Psilocybin Initiative, which reportedly raised $45,000 in support of the campaign. The campaigns website says: According to the [online] Global Drug Survey, mushrooms are the safest of all substances that people use recreationally with only 0.2 per cent of the people who reported using psilocybin in 2016 saying that they sought acute medical care. It adds: The risks of psilocybin use to public health and safety do not warrant criminalisation. Jill Biden says its time to move on from her husbands treatment of Anita Hill. Mr Biden served as chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee in 1991, where he oversaw Justice Thomass confirmation hearings. Ms Hill testified during these hearings that Mr Thomas had sexually harassed her when she worked under him at the United States Department of Education and the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. Her testimony, and the efforts by Senators backing the Republican-nominated Supreme Court nominee, was revisited especially last fall, during Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanughs confirmation hearing. Mr Bidens role as chairman, particularly in his decisions to not bring forth witnesses to corroborate Ms Hills allegations, has been a topic of conversations ever since. In an interview with NPR on Tuesday, the former Second Lady maintained that Joe Biden's recent phone call with Ms Hill, which Ms Hill said she did not consider an adequate apology for his decisions during the hearing, was enough to move on from their history together. He apologised for the way the hearings were run, Ms Biden told NPR. And so now it's kind of it's time to move on. Stories about the former Vice President's own inappropriate behaviour towards women have also put a dark spot on his frontrunner status in the 2020 Democratic primary. Ms Biden says these stories, which gained momentum after former Nevada lieutenant governor nominee Lucy Flores published an essay in New York Magazine describing an event in which the then-Vice President kissed her head and sniffed her hair, are due in part to what she considers one of Mr Bidens strengths. In pictures: Chaos and fury at Brett Kavanaugh's confirmation hearing Show all 21 1 /21 In pictures: Chaos and fury at Brett Kavanaugh's confirmation hearing In pictures: Chaos and fury at Brett Kavanaugh's confirmation hearing Getty Images In pictures: Chaos and fury at Brett Kavanaugh's confirmation hearing AFP/Getty Images In pictures: Chaos and fury at Brett Kavanaugh's confirmation hearing EPA In pictures: Chaos and fury at Brett Kavanaugh's confirmation hearing Getty Images In pictures: Chaos and fury at Brett Kavanaugh's confirmation hearing AFP/Getty Images In pictures: Chaos and fury at Brett Kavanaugh's confirmation hearing AP In pictures: Chaos and fury at Brett Kavanaugh's confirmation hearing Getty Images In pictures: Chaos and fury at Brett Kavanaugh's confirmation hearing Getty Images In pictures: Chaos and fury at Brett Kavanaugh's confirmation hearing AFP/Getty Images In pictures: Chaos and fury at Brett Kavanaugh's confirmation hearing AP In pictures: Chaos and fury at Brett Kavanaugh's confirmation hearing AFP/Getty Images In pictures: Chaos and fury at Brett Kavanaugh's confirmation hearing REUTERS In pictures: Chaos and fury at Brett Kavanaugh's confirmation hearing AFP/Getty Images In pictures: Chaos and fury at Brett Kavanaugh's confirmation hearing REUTERS In pictures: Chaos and fury at Brett Kavanaugh's confirmation hearing AFP/Getty Images In pictures: Chaos and fury at Brett Kavanaugh's confirmation hearing REUTERS In pictures: Chaos and fury at Brett Kavanaugh's confirmation hearing AFP/Getty Images In pictures: Chaos and fury at Brett Kavanaugh's confirmation hearing EPA In pictures: Chaos and fury at Brett Kavanaugh's confirmation hearing EPA In pictures: Chaos and fury at Brett Kavanaugh's confirmation hearing AFP/Getty Images In pictures: Chaos and fury at Brett Kavanaugh's confirmation hearing AFP/Getty Images He connects with people. And I think that's one of his strengths, Ms Biden said. And he heard [Lucy Flores] loud and clear, and he said he would take responsibility and he would you know honour people's space. Joe realises these are different times, Ms Biden continued. And believe me he's very conscious of, you know, how he interacts with men and women today." A man from Portland, Oregon, has been sentenced to four months in prison for his plot to try and bribe an ICE agent to deport his wife and step-child. Antonio Burgos, 48, was dealing with a failing marriage and divorce proceedings when he first approached an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent near the Oregon-Washington border in May of 2018. Burgos offered the agent $3,000 to deport his wife and her child from a previous relationship to their home country of El Salvador. Rather than accept the bribe, the ICE agent reported Burgoss request to the Office of Professional Responsibility. The OPR then initiated a sting operation with the help of the Department of Homeland Security, according to ABC News. Families belong together protests over Trump immigration policy Show all 8 1 /8 Families belong together protests over Trump immigration policy Families belong together protests over Trump immigration policy Mishawaka, Indiana AP Families belong together protests over Trump immigration policy Washington DC AFP/Getty Images Families belong together protests over Trump immigration policy New York Mayor Bill De Blasio speaks in Tornillo, Texas alongside the many other US mayors who have called for detained immigrant children to be reunited with their families AP Families belong together protests over Trump immigration policy Albuquerque Mayor Tim Kelle leaves a teddy bear as a gift for detained immigrant children in Tornillo, Texas AP Families belong together protests over Trump immigration policy Seattle Mayor Jenny Durkan and Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti leave sandals as gifts for detained immigrant children in Tornillo, Texas AP Families belong together protests over Trump immigration policy San Diego, California EPA Families belong together protests over Trump immigration policy US embassy, Mexico City AFP/Getty Images Families belong together protests over Trump immigration policy San Diego, California EPA The OPR recorded two conversations where Burgos offered to pay the agent $3,000, and then set up a meeting at a predetermined location in June. At this meeting, Burgos raised his offer to $4,000. Recommended Don Jr subpoenaed by Senate as Trump laughs about shooting migrants 23 days after the meeting, Burgos was arrested. Support free-thinking journalism and attend Independent events Burgos was charged with and pleaded guilty to one count of bribery to a public official. After his four month prison stint, Burgos will serve three years of supervised release. Alabama politicians have postponed efforts to pass a draconian abortion measure after shouting and chaos erupted in the legislative chamber. Legislators were poised to pass what would have been the toughest restrictions in the United States and would have placed Alabama residents on a par with those in many parts of the developing world in terms of access to abortion. The measure already passed by the states lower chamber only permitted abortion in cases where proceeding with a pregnancy seriously risked harming the health of the mother. The legislation would also make it a felony offence for doctors to carry out the procedure, with a maximum punishment of 99 years in jail. This week, an amendment was added that would have also permitted access to abortion in cases of rape and incest. Reports suggest that shouting and arguing broke out in the legislative chamber, located in the city of Montgomery, after Republicans sought to have those exemptions removed. Northern Ireland abortion protest in Westminster Show all 7 1 /7 Northern Ireland abortion protest in Westminster Northern Ireland abortion protest in Westminster Derry Girls cast members Siobhan McSweeney and Nicola Coughlan (right) join MPS and women impacted by Northern Ireland's strict abortion laws PA Northern Ireland abortion protest in Westminster Heidi Allen (second right) joins the protest PA Northern Ireland abortion protest in Westminster A luggage tag on a suitcase, symbolising the women who travel from Northern Ireland to England for terminations PA Northern Ireland abortion protest in Westminster The campaigners march across Westminster Bridge PA Northern Ireland abortion protest in Westminster Counter-protesters Rebecca Morgan (left) and her daughter Helen, one, demonstrate in favour of Northern Ireland's current laws Getty Images Northern Ireland abortion protest in Westminster Protesters supporting Northern Ireland's abortion laws at Parliament Square Getty Images Northern Ireland abortion protest in Westminster Demonstrators pull suitcases to symbolise the women who travel from Northern Ireland to England for a termination AFP/Getty Images The move shocked senate minority leader Bobby Singleton, a Democrat, who could be seen on video taken inside the chamber, calling for a roll call on every measure concerning the bill. At least treat us fairly and do it the right way, said another Democrat, Vivian Davis, according to the Montgomery Advertiser. Thats all I ask.thats all women in this state ask, both Democratic and Republican. Feeling emboldened by Donald Trumps appointment to the US Supreme Court two conservative justices who may be open to challenges to Roe v Wade, the 1973 ruling that guarantees a womans right to a safe, legal abortion, anti-abortion activists have helped push restrictions in more than two dozen states this year. On Tuesday, Georgia became the latest of a succession of states to impose an abortion ban after the sixth week of pregnancy the so-called heartbeat ban. I realise that some may challenge it in a court of law but our job is to do what is right not what is easy, Georgia governor Brian Kemp, a conservative Republican said as he signed the bill into law. The push in Alabama has been led by state senator Terri Collins, who has said she hopes the legislation would trigger a legal battle that could force the Supreme Court in Washington DC reconsider the Roe ruling. Georgia governor Brian Kemp signs controversial Heartbeat abortion ban She told local reporters this week, she opposed the amendments that would allow abortion in cases of rape or incest. To accept another amendment that weakens the argument, or diverts the message of the argument, which is the baby in the womb is a person, dilutes the whole message, she said. The Associated Press said Thursdays hearing was brought to a halt by Republican Del Marsh, the second highest ranking member of the senate. He said legislators should go home for the weekend and resume debate on Tuesday. Mr Marsh is among those Republicans who support the additional exemptions for cases of rape and incest Governor Ivey has not commented on the legislation as it made its way through the two chambers of legislature. She does, however, consider herself pro-life, and supporters of the bill, which was approved by the lower chamber last week 74-3 last week, are confident she will sign it. Last week, the debate in the lower chamber became highly controversial and was seized on by conservatives across the country, after an opponent of the bill, used startling language as he spoke of his support for a womans right to choose. Democrat John Rogers said he was not about to be the male tell a woman what to do with her body. Some kids are unwanted, so you kill them now or kill them later, he said. You bring them into the world unwanted, unloved, then you send them to the electric chair. So you kill them now or you kill them later. But the bottom line is that I think we shouldnt be making this decision. In the latest crackdown against government leaks by the Trump Administration, a former National Security Agency official has been charged with giving classified documents on drone warfare to a journalist. Daniel Hale, 31, is accused of leaking classified documents to an unnamed media outlet. It has been reported that the files described appear to match those published by The Intercept. The Intercept refused to comment on its sourcing, but released a statement condemning the indictment of Hale, saying: Following in the dangerous path of the Obama administration, the Trump administration is continuing to use the Espionage Act to prosecute whistleblowers who enable journalists to uncover disgraceful, immoral, and unconstitutional acts committed in secret by the US government. At The Intercept, we stand firmly opposed to all such prosecutions. It has been reported that Hale had met the reporter at an event and soon after began searching for documents on topics that the reporter wrote on. It is alleged two established a relationship over several months related to the documents, corresponding via text and email, sometimes using an encrypted messaging service called Jabber, sometimes going for dinner. Recommended Portland man attempts to bribe ICE agent to deport wife Hale had previously served as an intelligence analyst while an enlisted airman in the US Air Force from 2009 to 2013, and later as a contractor for the National Geospatial- Intelligence agency in Virginia, at which time he possessed security clearance. NSA whistleblower Edward Snowden 'requests asylum in Ecuador' Show all 2 1 /2 NSA whistleblower Edward Snowden 'requests asylum in Ecuador' NSA whistleblower Edward Snowden 'requests asylum in Ecuador' 16.reu.jpg REUTERS NSA whistleblower Edward Snowden 'requests asylum in Ecuador' _68331251_68331250.jpg REUTERS During that time, its alleged that Hale printed out 17 documents not related to his work to provide to the media outlets, 11 of the 17 requiring high level clearance to access. Support free-thinking journalism and attend Independent events Hale has been indicted by a grand jury on five counts regarding the leak, each count carrying a maximum sentence of 10 years. The body which oversees the US intelligence services has formally summoned the presidents son, Donald Trump Jr, to testify again over his alleged dealings with Russia ahead of the 2016 general election. The Senate Intelligence Committee, which is still examining Russian election interference, issued the subpoena after the testimony Mr Trump Jr gave to the Senate Judiciary Committee in September 2017 was later contradicted in a testimony given by his fathers former attorney Michael Cohen. It is the first known subpoena of a member of Donald Trumps immediate family, and indicates the Senate panel is continuing with its own Russia investigation even after the release of special counsel Robert Muellers report on the same subject. It is unclear if Mr Trump Jr will comply with the subpoena from the committee, which is chaired by Republican Senator Richard Burr of North Carolina. According to CNN the presidents son is considering invoking his rights under the US constitutions fifth amendment, which do not compel him to attend unless he is indicted by a grand jury (such a move would indicate a strong legal case against him). The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 Show all 25 1 /25 The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 Bernie Sanders The Vermont senator has launched a second bid for president after losing out to Hilary Clinton in the 2016 Democratic primaries. He is running on a similar platform of democratic socialist reform Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 Joe Biden The former vice president recently faced scrutiny for inappropriate touching of women, but was thought to deal with the criticism well and has since maintained a front runner status in national polling EPA The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 Elizabeth Warren The Massachusetts senator is a progressive Democrat, and a major supporter of regulating Wall Street Reuters The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 Amy Klobuchar Klobuchar is a Minnesota senator who earned praise for her contribution to the Brett Kavanaugh hearings Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 Michael Bloomberg Michael Bloomberg, a late addition to the 2020 race, announced his candidacy after months of speculation in November. He has launched a massive ad-buying campaign and issued an apology for the controversial "stop and frisk" programme that adversely impacted minority communities in New York City when he was mayor Getty Images The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 Tulsi Gabbard The Hawaii congresswoman announced her candidacy in January, but has faced tough questions on her past comments on LGBT+ rights and her stance on Syrian President Bashar al-Assad Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Pete Buttigieg The centrist Indiana mayor and war veteran would be the first openly LGBT+ president in American history Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Deval Patrick The former Massachusetts governor launched a late 2020 candidacy and received very little reception. With just a few short months until the first voters flock to the polls, the former governor is running as a centrist and believes he can unite the party's various voting blocs AFP/Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Beto O'Rourke The former Texas congressman formally launched his bid for the presidency in March. He ran on a progressive platform, stating that the US is driven by "gross differences in opportunity and outcome" AP The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Kamala Harris The former California attorney general was introduced to the national stage during Jeff Sessions testimony. She has endorsed Medicare-for-all and proposed a major tax-credit for the middle class AFP/Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Bill De Blasio The New York mayor announced his bid on 16 May 2019. He emerged in 2013 as a leading voice in the left wing of his party but struggled to build a national profile and has suffered a number of political setbacks in his time as mayor AFP/Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Steve Bullock The Montana governor announced his bid on 14 May. He stated "We need to defeat Donald Trump in 2020 and defeat the corrupt system that lets campaign money drown out the people's voice, so we can finally make good on the promise of a fair shot for everyone." He also highlighted the fact that he won the governor's seat in a red [Republican] state Reuters The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Cory Booker The New Jersey Senator has focused on restoring kindness and civility in American politics throughout his campaign, though he has failed to secure the same level of support and fundraising as several other senators running for the White House in 2020 Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Wayne Messam Mayor of the city of Miramar in the Miami metropolitan area, Wayne Messam said he intended to run on a progressive platform against the "broken" federal government. He favours gun regulations and was a signatory to a letter from some 400 mayors condemning President Trump's withdrawal from the Paris Climate Accord Vice News The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Kirsten Gillibrand The New York Senator formally announced her presidential bid in January, saying that healthcare should be a right, not a privilege Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: John Delaney The Maryland congressman was the first to launch his bid for presidency, making the announcement in 2017 AP The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Andrew Yang The entrepreneur announced his presidential candidacy by pledging that he would introduce a universal basic income of $1,000 a month to every American over the age of 18 Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Julian Castro The former San Antonio mayor announced his candidacy in January and said that his running has a special meaning for the Latino community in the US Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Marianne Williamson The author and spiritual adviser has announced her intention to run for president. She had previously run for congress as an independent in 2014 but was unsuccessful Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Eric Swalwell One of the younger candidates, Swalwell has served on multiple committees in the House of Representatives. He intended to make gun control central to his campaign but dropped out after his team said it was clear there was no path to victory Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Seth Moulton A Massachusetts congressman, Moulton is a former US soldier who is best known for trying to stop Nancy Pelosi from becoming speaker of the house. He dropped out of the race after not polling well in key states Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Jay Inslee Inslee has been governor of Washington since 2013. His bid was centred around climate change AFP/Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: John Hickenlooper The former governor of Colorado aimed to sell himself as an effective leader who was open to compromise, but failed to make a splash on the national stage Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Tim Ryan Ohio representative Tim Ryan ran on a campaign that hinged on his working class roots, though his messaging did not appear to resonate with voters Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Tom Steyer Democratic presidential hopeful billionaire and philanthropist Tom Steyer is a longtime Democratic donor AFP/Getty Another option may be for him to simply not appear at all, the broadcaster said, citing one source. A person close to the presidents eldest son, who requested anonymity to discuss the matter, told AP Mr Trump Jr has continued to cooperate by producing documents and answering written questions. The Senate Intelligence Committee has interviewed many of the same witnesses who spoke to Mr Muellers team, and the committee has recently begun re-interviewing witnesses. These include the presidents son-in-law, Jared Kushner, who made a second appearance earlier this year. The committees renewed interest in talking to Mr Trump Jr comes after Cohen testified earlier this year and said he had briefed Mr Trump Jr approximately 10 times about a plan to build a Trump Tower in Moscow before the presidential election. But Mr Trump Jr had told the Senate Judiciary Committee in 2017 he was only peripherally aware of the plans. The panel has also investigated a meeting between Mr Trump Jr, other Trump campaign staff and a Russian lawyer. Emails leading up to the meeting promised dirt on Hillary Clinton. Cohen became the first of the presidents inner circle to allege that, in 2016, Mr Trump knew in advance his eldest son was meeting Russians who claimed to have compromising information on Ms Clinton. Mr Muellers report, released last month, said Cohen recalled being in Mr Trumps office when Mr Trump Jr told his father that a meeting to obtain adverse information about Clinton was going forward". But the report said Mr Trump Jr told the Senate Judiciary Committee, however, that he did not inform his father about the emails or the upcoming meeting. This week Cohen arrived at prison to start a three-year sentence for crimes including tax evasion and campaign finance violations related to hush-money payments made to protect his former boss. A spokeswoman for the Senate Intelligence Committee would not confirm the subpoena. But Maine Senator Susan Collins, a Republican member of the panel, hinted after Cohen spoke behind closed doors to the Senate intelligence panel that the committee would want to talk to Mr Trump Jr again. She said senators clearly need to re-interview some witnesses whose accounts [Cohen] contradicts". Additional reporting by AP. Huaweis chief financial officer has cited comments made by President Donald Trump as a reason she cannot be extradited to the United States. Meng Wanzhou, 47, faces extradition from Canada, where she was arrested in December on charges related to Iran sanctions violations and where she remains on house arrest. But in December, Trump suggested he would be open to using the pending case as a negotiating tactic in trade talks with China, saying he would intervene if he decided it was necessary. Ms Wanzhous lawyers now argue his comments disqualify the United States from pursuing the matter in Canada. Her spokesman Benjamin Howes said on Wednesday there are political factors behind the arrest, adding Ms Wanzhous rights have been violated. The criminal case against Miss Meng is based on allegations that are simply untrue, he said. Inside Huawei's new campus for workers in China Show all 20 1 /20 Inside Huawei's new campus for workers in China Inside Huawei's new campus for workers in China An employee enters a train in the Huawei's Ox Horn campus at Songshan Lake in Dongguan Reuters Inside Huawei's new campus for workers in China A worker cleans a waterway as office buildings are seen at Huawei's new Ox Horn Research and Development campus in Dongguan, near shenzen Getty Inside Huawei's new campus for workers in China An area of Huawei's Ox Horn campus modelled after Cesky Krumlov in Czech Republic Getty Inside Huawei's new campus for workers in China The real Cesky Krumlov in Czech Republic Getty Inside Huawei's new campus for workers in China Employees sleep in their cubicle in the research and development area after lunch at the Bantian campus in Shenzhen Getty Inside Huawei's new campus for workers in China An area of Huawei's Ox Horn campus modelled after Heidelberg in Germany Getty Images Inside Huawei's new campus for workers in China Employees play basketball on a court within the staff housing complex at the end of the workday at the Bantian campus in Shenzhen Getty Inside Huawei's new campus for workers in China A replica of the Karl Theodor Bridge in Huawei's Ox Horn campus Getty Inside Huawei's new campus for workers in China The real Karl Theodor Bridge in Heidelberg, Germany Getty Inside Huawei's new campus for workers in China Huawei's Ox Horn campus at Songshan Lake in Dongguan Reuters Inside Huawei's new campus for workers in China Employees ride the bus home at the end of the workday from the company's Bantian campus in Shenzhen Getty Inside Huawei's new campus for workers in China Huawei workers eat their subsidised lunch in one of many large cafeterias at the company's Bantian campus in Shenzhen Getty Inside Huawei's new campus for workers in China Reception staff walk in front of a large screen showcasing different technologies in the foyer of a building used for high profile customer visits at the campus in Shenzen Getty Inside Huawei's new campus for workers in China An employee reads in the staff library on a break at the company's Bantian campus in Shenzhen Getty Inside Huawei's new campus for workers in China An area of Huawei's new Ox Horn campus modelled after a European City Getty Inside Huawei's new campus for workers in China Servers are seen inside Huawei's factory campus in Dongguan Reuters Inside Huawei's new campus for workers in China The conductor waits for a train in the Huawei's Ox Horn campus at Songshan Lake in Dongguan Reuters Inside Huawei's new campus for workers in China A general view shows the research and development centre at Huawei's Ox Horn campus AFP/Getty Inside Huawei's new campus for workers in China Employees works on a mobile phone production line at Huawei's factory campus in Dongguan Reuters Inside Huawei's new campus for workers in China An office building on the Huawei campus in Dongguan AFP/Getty Huawei have also said in a statement that the case is guided by political considerations and tactics, not by the rule of law. Ms Wanzhou was arrested at Vancouver airport in December on an American arrest warrant and must now wear an electronic ankle bracelet and pay for her own security guards while living in an up-market house in Vancouver. It is alleged Ms Wanzhou misled global banks about Huaweis relationship with Skycom, a company that operates in Iran, and in doing so violated U.S. laws. But Ms Wanzhous lawyers claim she was unlawfully detained, searched and interrogated at the airport. They say there is no evidence she misrepresented Huawei's relationship with Skycom to HSBC, which put the bank at risk of wrongdoing. Scott Fenton, Ms Wanzhous defence lawyer, said her rights "were placed in total suspension" during her three hour detention at the airport in December. Ms Wanzhou's case has attracted global attention and sparked a diplomatic crisis between Beijing and Ottawa, with China demanding her release. The next court date in the process has been set for 23 September, while the formal extradition hearings are expected to begin next January. Donald Trumps administration has committed what journalists are describing to be a mass purge of press passes allowing career reporters to easily access the White House. Washington Post columnist Dana Milbank, who this week received notice that his press pass had been revoked, along with many reporters in the White House press corps, wrote on Wednesday: Theres something wrong with a president having the power to decide which journalists can cover him. I was part of a mass purge of hard pass holders after the White House implemented a new standard that designated as unqualified almost the entire White House press corps, including all seven of The Posts White House correspondents, Mr Milbank wrote. The move arrives amid a sharp reduction in the number of White House daily press briefings and continued tensions between the administration and reporters tasked with covering it. White House Press Secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders announced she would seek to limit the number of journalists with hard passes based on whether they need to be physically present at the White House for 90 or more days of their jobs during a 180-day period. President Trump's most shocking attacks on the media Show all 16 1 /16 President Trump's most shocking attacks on the media President Trump's most shocking attacks on the media "You are fake news!" Then President-elect Trump directed this insult to CNN's Jim Acosta while refusing him a question at a press conference on January 11 2017. The President-elect's anger was due to the publishing by Buzzfeed of unverified memos that implicated Michael Cohen in Russian collusion. CNN had reported on a briefing of Obama and Trump on the memos by US intelligence chiefs, but knowing the content to be unverified had not revealed it AFP/Getty President Trump's most shocking attacks on the media "They are among the most dishonest human beings on earth" President Trump said this of journalists during a visit to the CIA on the the day following his inauguration. His claim of having the largest crowd of any inauguration ceremony in history had been debunked and he clearly wasn't happy Reuters President Trump's most shocking attacks on the media "Failing New York Times" President Trump commonly addresses the New York Times in this way, contrary to its increasing profit margins and expanding global readership. He is pictured here in the midtown Manhattan office of the paper Getty President Trump's most shocking attacks on the media "Enemy of the American People" President Trump has since repeated the claim that such news outlets are the enemy of the people, often after they break negative stories about him President Trump's most shocking attacks on the media "They have no sources" Speaking at the Conservative Political Action Conference on February 24 2017, President Trump suggested that a Washington Post article with 9 sources was "made up". The article in question exposed how then National Security Advisor Michael Flynn had misled Vice President Mike Pence over a phone call to a Russian ambassador. That the article was "made up", while highly doubtful at the time, seems even less likely since Michael Flynn pleaded guilty to lying to the FBI about the same phone call Reuters President Trump's most shocking attacks on the media Access denied for major publications Protesters gathered outside of the New York Times office after Trump's White House barred a number of publications from attending a press briefing on February 24 2017. Just hours after the President had again denounced the media, then Press Secretary Sean Spicer denied access to news outlets such as CNN and the New York Times, while permitting Breitbart News, CBS, Fox and others AFP/Getty President Trump's most shocking attacks on the media "#FNN" On July 2 2017, President Trump tweeted an edited clip from his Wrestlemania XXIII appearance in which the CNN logo had been imposed onto the face of his wrestling opponent Vince McMahon. CNN is a common target for President Trump and here he suggests that he is getting the better of the network through his repeated attacks President Trump's most shocking attacks on the media "The most powerful TV show in America" On July 27 2017, President Trump quoted a New York Times article about Fox & Friends. The President is known to watch Fox & Friends every morning, often tweeting about matters discussed on the show, leading to speculation over its influence on his outlook and policies Getty President Trump's most shocking attacks on the media "It's frankly disgusting the way the press is able to write whatever they want to write" In a meeting with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on October 11 2017, President Trump suggested that the press ought not to be allowed their constitutionally secured freedom. He added "people should look into it", suggesting that he also doesn't respect the protection of sources. At the time, he was angry at an NBC report claiming that the President had expressed a desire to return the size of the US' nuclear arsenal to its 1960s height, a claim that he and others in his administration dismissed as fake news AFP/Getty President Trump's most shocking attacks on the media "negative (Fake)" In a tweet on 9 May 2018, President Trump conflated negative reporting about him with fake news President Trump's most shocking attacks on the media "I didn't criticise the Prime Minister" In a press conference with the Prime Minister on his visit to Britain, President Trump disputed claims published in the Sun that he had criticised Mrs May's Brexit strategy Reuters President Trump's most shocking attacks on the media "Horrible, horrendous people" At a Republican rally in Pennsylvania on August 3 2018, President Trump deemed all journalists in attendance "horrible, horrendous people". He later denounced the "fake, fake, disgusting news" for falsely reporting that he was late to his meeting with the Queen when visiting Britain AFP/Getty President Trump's most shocking attacks on the media Trump's rhetoric "very close to inciting violence" In an interview with the Guardian on 13 August 2018, the outgoing UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Zeid Ra'ad al-Hussein suggested that President Trump's attacks on the press are "very close to inciting violence". Zeid singles out the President's repeated claim that the fake news (negative coverage) media is the "enemy of the people" as dangerous Reuters President Trump's most shocking attacks on the media "anonymous source" = fiction President Trump claimed that any report citing anonymous sources is fiction. The protection of sources is a vital matter of press freedom, without it a potential source's fear of repercussions could lead them to withhold important information President Trump's most shocking attacks on the media "You are a rude, terrible person" At a press conference in the wake of the midterms, President Trump clashed with CNN's Jim Acosta when he asked about the President's use of language during the campaign Reuters President Trump's most shocking attacks on the media "I would never kill Journalists" For any journalists frightened by President Trump's attacks on the press, perhaps you can take solace in his words from a campaign rally in Grand Rapids on December 21 2015. Responding to remarks over Vladimir Putin's handling of journalists, Trump stated: "I hate some of these people, but I'd never kill them... I'll be honest - I would never kill them. Uhhh lets see.. no, I never would" Getty Mr Milbank suggested he was the only Washington Post employee to not receive an exception to the new rules because he is a "Trump critic." The White House has provided some exceptions to the new rules for senior journalists, though for the most part a sharp reduction in media at the White House will likely be seen in the coming days. News outlets that have contested the change are reportedly in the process of securing shorter-term passes and hard passes for those with special circumstances. Ms Sanders claimed the decision to purge hard passes came from the US Secret Service, adding, No ones access is being limited. In his article published Wednesday, Mr Milbank said he was not looking for pity, while noting how the sharp reduction in briefings have devalued White House coverage anyway. Support free-thinking journalism and attend Independent events White House officials offered me and others it disqualified a lesser credential called a six-month pass. They say it will grant equivalent access, but for various technical reasons, that isnt true, he wrote. Ill keep covering the White House, albeit from a distance, and wait for things to return to normal if they ever do. House speaker Nancy Pelosi says Donald Trump is digging his own grave, even if she and her fellow Democrats in the House are resisting impeaching the president so far. With Washington still reeling in the wake of the release of special counsel Robert Muellers report and attorney general William Barrs decision to snub the House Judiciary Committee leading to contempt votes Ms Pelosi has said she is waiting for congressional investigations to uncover all the evidence. In the meantime, she thinks Mr Trump is doing himself no favours by resisting those investigative efforts, including recent subpoenas for his adult son, Donald Trump Jr, to testify about his contacts with Russians. The president is almost self-impeaching because he is every day demonstrating more obstruction and disrespect for Congresss legitimate role to subpoena, Ms Pelosi said on Thursday during her weekly press briefing. Ms Pelosi has repeatedly insisted that Democrats are not moving forward on impeachment proceedings against the president, and have instead decided to wait for House committees to continue with their investigations. The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 Show all 25 1 /25 The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 Bernie Sanders The Vermont senator has launched a second bid for president after losing out to Hilary Clinton in the 2016 Democratic primaries. He is running on a similar platform of democratic socialist reform Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 Joe Biden The former vice president recently faced scrutiny for inappropriate touching of women, but was thought to deal with the criticism well and has since maintained a front runner status in national polling EPA The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 Elizabeth Warren The Massachusetts senator is a progressive Democrat, and a major supporter of regulating Wall Street Reuters The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 Amy Klobuchar Klobuchar is a Minnesota senator who earned praise for her contribution to the Brett Kavanaugh hearings Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 Michael Bloomberg Michael Bloomberg, a late addition to the 2020 race, announced his candidacy after months of speculation in November. He has launched a massive ad-buying campaign and issued an apology for the controversial "stop and frisk" programme that adversely impacted minority communities in New York City when he was mayor Getty Images The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 Tulsi Gabbard The Hawaii congresswoman announced her candidacy in January, but has faced tough questions on her past comments on LGBT+ rights and her stance on Syrian President Bashar al-Assad Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Pete Buttigieg The centrist Indiana mayor and war veteran would be the first openly LGBT+ president in American history Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Deval Patrick The former Massachusetts governor launched a late 2020 candidacy and received very little reception. With just a few short months until the first voters flock to the polls, the former governor is running as a centrist and believes he can unite the party's various voting blocs AFP/Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Beto O'Rourke The former Texas congressman formally launched his bid for the presidency in March. He ran on a progressive platform, stating that the US is driven by "gross differences in opportunity and outcome" AP The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Kamala Harris The former California attorney general was introduced to the national stage during Jeff Sessions testimony. She has endorsed Medicare-for-all and proposed a major tax-credit for the middle class AFP/Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Bill De Blasio The New York mayor announced his bid on 16 May 2019. He emerged in 2013 as a leading voice in the left wing of his party but struggled to build a national profile and has suffered a number of political setbacks in his time as mayor AFP/Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Steve Bullock The Montana governor announced his bid on 14 May. He stated "We need to defeat Donald Trump in 2020 and defeat the corrupt system that lets campaign money drown out the people's voice, so we can finally make good on the promise of a fair shot for everyone." He also highlighted the fact that he won the governor's seat in a red [Republican] state Reuters The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Cory Booker The New Jersey Senator has focused on restoring kindness and civility in American politics throughout his campaign, though he has failed to secure the same level of support and fundraising as several other senators running for the White House in 2020 Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Wayne Messam Mayor of the city of Miramar in the Miami metropolitan area, Wayne Messam said he intended to run on a progressive platform against the "broken" federal government. He favours gun regulations and was a signatory to a letter from some 400 mayors condemning President Trump's withdrawal from the Paris Climate Accord Vice News The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Kirsten Gillibrand The New York Senator formally announced her presidential bid in January, saying that healthcare should be a right, not a privilege Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: John Delaney The Maryland congressman was the first to launch his bid for presidency, making the announcement in 2017 AP The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Andrew Yang The entrepreneur announced his presidential candidacy by pledging that he would introduce a universal basic income of $1,000 a month to every American over the age of 18 Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Julian Castro The former San Antonio mayor announced his candidacy in January and said that his running has a special meaning for the Latino community in the US Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Marianne Williamson The author and spiritual adviser has announced her intention to run for president. She had previously run for congress as an independent in 2014 but was unsuccessful Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Eric Swalwell One of the younger candidates, Swalwell has served on multiple committees in the House of Representatives. He intended to make gun control central to his campaign but dropped out after his team said it was clear there was no path to victory Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Seth Moulton A Massachusetts congressman, Moulton is a former US soldier who is best known for trying to stop Nancy Pelosi from becoming speaker of the house. He dropped out of the race after not polling well in key states Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Jay Inslee Inslee has been governor of Washington since 2013. His bid was centred around climate change AFP/Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: John Hickenlooper The former governor of Colorado aimed to sell himself as an effective leader who was open to compromise, but failed to make a splash on the national stage Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Tim Ryan Ohio representative Tim Ryan ran on a campaign that hinged on his working class roots, though his messaging did not appear to resonate with voters Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Tom Steyer Democratic presidential hopeful billionaire and philanthropist Tom Steyer is a longtime Democratic donor AFP/Getty Just this week, the Justice Department and White House resisted those investigations, however, with a top official writing a letter to the House Judiciary Committee notifying them that the West Wing was asserting executive privilege over the entire Mueller report and underlying evidence. Support free-thinking journalism and attend Independent events The decision came as a deadline to comply with a subpoena for those materials approached, and the snub led the committee to vote to hold Mr Barr in contempt. If the House ultimately approves of the holding Mr Barr in contempt, it would likely be a largely symbolic act. Donald Trump ordered new sanctions against Iran on Wednesday hours after Tehran said it was relaxing some restrictions on its nuclear programme. The sanctions requested by the US president target Irans steel, aluminium, copper and iron sectors worth around 10 per cent of the countrys economy, according to the White House. Iran had announced hours earlier that it was stepping up some of its nuclear capabilities - steps that stopped short of violating its historic deal with world powers for now, but threatening more action if countries do not shield it from US sanctions. The Trump administration said it would continue its maximum pressure campaign on the Iranian government until it stops destabilising activities in the region, gives up any nuclear weapons efforts and ends any development of ballistic missiles. Tehran can expect further actions unless it fundamentally alters its conduct, said Mr Trump, who also called on the Iranians to return in good faith to the negotiating table. Iran parliament reacts after Trump's withdrawal from nuclear deal Show all 10 1 /10 Iran parliament reacts after Trump's withdrawal from nuclear deal Iran parliament reacts after Trump's withdrawal from nuclear deal Iranian MPs burnt a US flag in parliament after Donald Trump announced America's withdrawal from the nuclear deal. AFP/Islamic Consultative Assembly News Agency Iran parliament reacts after Trump's withdrawal from nuclear deal US President Donald Trump displays a presidential memorandum after announcing his intent to withdraw from the JCPOA Iran nuclear agreement in the Diplomatic Room at the White House. Reuters Iran parliament reacts after Trump's withdrawal from nuclear deal Some Iranian MPs reacted after Trumps decision by shouting 'death to America'. AFP/Islamic Consultative Assembly News Agency Iran parliament reacts after Trump's withdrawal from nuclear deal Iranian lawmakers prepare to burn two pieces of papers representing the US flag and the nuclear deal. AP Iran parliament reacts after Trump's withdrawal from nuclear deal Iran said it will hold talks with signatories to the nuclear deal after Trump's decision to withdraw from the accord, which it branded "psychological warfare". AFP/Islamic Consultative Assembly News Agency Iran parliament reacts after Trump's withdrawal from nuclear deal Several Iranian MPs stood chanting in the Tehran parliament. AFP/Islamic Consultative Assembly News Agency Iran parliament reacts after Trump's withdrawal from nuclear deal Iranian MPs burning a US flag AFP/Islamic Consultative Assembly News Agency Iran parliament reacts after Trump's withdrawal from nuclear deal President Hassan Rouhani addressed the nation in a televised speech in Tehran. He said he'd send his foreign minister to negotiate with countries remaining in the nuclear deal after Trump's decision to pull America from the deal, warning he otherwise would restart enriching uranium "in the next weeks." Iranian Presidency Office via AP Iran parliament reacts after Trump's withdrawal from nuclear deal Iran's press condemned Trump's withdrawal from a multi-party nuclear deal but was divided over whether Tehran should react with patience or withdraw itself. AFP Iran parliament reacts after Trump's withdrawal from nuclear deal Trump announced the US withdrawal from what he called the "defective" multinational nuclear deal with Iran, and said Washington would reinstate sanctions against the Islamic republic. AFP/Getty The US, Germany, Britain, France, Russia, China and the European Union signed a deal with Iran in 2015 that lifted international sanctions in exchange for Tehran limiting its nuclear programme. One year ago, Mr Trump pulled out of the agreement, calling it the worst deal in history. He said the accord should also have restrained Irans ballistic missile programme and curbed what his administration considers Tehrans malign activities in the region. The other nations have remained in the nuclear deal technically known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) and have tried to provide Iran with enough economic incentives to keep the agreement alive. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo calls Iran's Revolutionary Guard a terrorist organisation Iran threatened earlier on Wednesday to enrich its uranium stockpile closer to weapons-grade levels in 60 days if world powers fail to negotiate new terms for its 2015 nuclear deal. The country has stopped its sale of excess uranium and heavy water as a first step something required under the deal. In 60 days, if no new deal is in place, Iran said it would increase its enrichment of uranium beyond 3.67 per cent, which is permitted by the accord. President Hassan Rouhani did not say how far Iran would be willing to enrich, although the head of its nuclear programme again reiterated Iran could reach 20 per cent enrichment within four days. Once a country enriches uranium to around 20 per cent, scientists say the time needed to reach the 90 per cent threshold for weapons-grade uranium is halved. The Iranian people and the world should know that today is not the end of the JCPOA, Mr Rouhani said in a televised address. These are actions in line with the JCPOA. France and Germany both said they wanted to keep the nuclear deal alive, and warned Iran not to violate it. It is important to avoid any action that would impede the implementation of their obligations by the parties now engaged in the accord or that would fuel an escalation, said French deputy foreign ministry spokesman Olivier Gauvin. China said the deal should continue to be implemented and called on all sides to exercise restraint and pursue dialogue. Speaking on a visit to the London, secretary of state Mike Pompeo urged the UK to stand with the US when it came to Iran, claiming were on the side of creating a nation for the Iranian people. The weeks leading up to the anniversary of Mr Trumps withdrawal from the agreement have seen a sharp tightening of US sanctions and an increase in tensions on other fronts. Earlier this week Washington announced the deployment of an aircraft carrier and B-52 bombers to the Middle East to counter what it says are clear indications of Iranian threats to US forces in the region. Additional reporting by agencies The Trump administration has sent new guidelines to asylum officers directing them to take a more sceptical and confrontational approach during interviews with migrants seeking refuge in the United States. It is the latest measure aimed at tightening the nations legal loopholes Homeland Security officials blame for a spike in border crossings. According to internal documents and staff emails obtained on Tuesday by The Washington Post, the asylum officers will more aggressively challenge applicants whose claims of persecution contain discrepancies, and they will need to provide detailed justifications before concluding an applicant has a well-founded fear of harm if deported to their home country. The changes require officers to zero in on any gaps between what migrants say to US border agents after they are taken into custody and testimony they provide during the interview process with a trained asylum officer. Officers conducting credible fear interviews should also be addressing any more detailed inconsistencies between the applicants testimony during the credible fear interview and other testimony in sworn statement, John Lafferty, the head of the asylum division at US Citizenship and Immigration Services (CIS), wrote to staff in an email, outlining the changes. Undocumented immigration across the US-Mexico border Show all 14 1 /14 Undocumented immigration across the US-Mexico border Undocumented immigration across the US-Mexico border Immigrant children, many of whom are separated form their parents, are housed in Texas' tent city Reuters Undocumented immigration across the US-Mexico border A two-year-old Honduran asylum seeker cries as her mother is searched and detained near the US-Mexico border Getty Undocumented immigration across the US-Mexico border Undocumented migrants ride on the top of a freight train referred to as the beast, or La Bestia Getty Undocumented immigration across the US-Mexico border A cage inside a US Customs and Border Protection detention facility in Texas Reuters Undocumented immigration across the US-Mexico border US Border Patrol Academy All new agents must complete a months-long training course at the New Mexico facility before assuming their posts at Border Patrol stations, mostly along the US-Mexico border Getty Undocumented immigration across the US-Mexico border US-Mexico border fence A group of young men walk along the Mexican side of the US-Mexico border fence in a remote area of the Sonoran Desert Getty Undocumented immigration across the US-Mexico border US-Mexico border fence in the US Man looks through US-Mexico border fence into the US in Tijuana, Mexico Getty Undocumented immigration across the US-Mexico border US-Mexico border fence US Border Patrol agent Sal De Leon stands near a section of the US-Mexico border fence while stopping on patrol on in La Joya, Texas Getty Undocumented immigration across the US-Mexico border US Border Patrol Academy US Border Patrol instructor yells at trainees after their initial arrival to the academy Getty Undocumented immigration across the US-Mexico border Memorial service in Guatemala Families attend a memorial service for two boys who were kidnapped and killed in San Juan Sacatepequez, Guatemala. Crime drives emigration from Guatemala to the United States, as families seek refuge from the danger Getty Undocumented immigration across the US-Mexico border Arrests on the border Undocumented immigrants comfort each other after being caught by Border Patrol agents near the US-Mexico border Getty Undocumented immigration across the US-Mexico border Detention holding facility A boy from Honduras watches a movie at a detention facility run by the US Border Patrol Getty Undocumented immigration across the US-Mexico border Mexican farm workers Mexican migrant workers harvest organic parsley at Grant Family Farms in Wellington, Colorado Getty Undocumented immigration across the US-Mexico border Mexican family in Arizona A Mexican immigrant family sits in the living room of their rented home in Tuscon, Arizona. The family that Arizona's new tough immigrant law had created a climate of fear in the immigrant community. Getty The new guidelines and directive to asylum officers are among the most significant steps the administration has taken to limit access to the country for foreigners seeking asylum, whose right to apply for humanitarian protection is protected by US law and rooted in post-World War II international treaties granting refuge to those fleeing persecution. The changes appear to signal the administration wants to turn away asylum seekers earlier in the legal process, aiming to cut down on the number of applicants who enter the court system and to deter others from attempting to cross into the United States to seek asylum. Tighter control over asylum claims would fit into a broader White House effort to control the parameters of legal immigration. White House officials including senior adviser Jared Kushner met with Republican members of Congress on Tuesday as they draft a proposal that would base the immigration system largely on an immigrants ability to contribute to the economy. The Trump administration has already set lower limits on refugees, is cracking down on visa overstays and has alleged that many asylum seekers crossing the southern border are frauds. The government also has been sending some asylum seekers back to Mexico as part of a program that calls for migrants to stay on the other side of the border to await their US court hearings. A federal court blocked the implementation and expansion of the program, and the government has appealed that finding. The US Court of Appeals for the 9th Circuit, in San Francisco, on Tuesday ruled that the Trump administration can temporarily continue the program while the court waits to hear the case, though two of the three judges on the panel indicated that they had broader legal reservations about the policy. With a record number of Central American families arriving at the border and swamping US courts with asylum claims, President Donald Trump has repeatedly scoffed at the protections and has told crowds that dangerous criminals are using it to game the system and stay in the United States. The asylum program is a scam, Mr Trump said last month in a speech. Some of the roughest people youve ever seen, people that look like they should be fighting for the UFC...you look at this guy you say wow, thats a tough cookie! One asylum officer, who spoke on the condition of anonymity for fear of retribution, said the changes are huge and would make the screening process more time-consuming by requiring officers to provide detailed written analysis before referring an applicant to the courts. Trump compares US-Mexico border to Disneyland and calls end to family separations a disaster Jessica Collins, a CIS spokesperson, confirmed that new guidelines included in a lesson plan Reuters has posted online were issued to officers, describing them as a periodic update. As part of this periodic update, we have reiterated to asylum officers long-standing policies that help determine an individuals credibility during the credible fear interview and have ensured there are consistent processes for both positive and negative credible fear determinations, Ms Collins said in a written statement. Homeland Security agencies are already struggling to comply with court orders limiting the amount of time families with children can be held in detention, and further processing delays could exacerbate dangerous overcrowding at Border Patrol stations and immigration jails. Some areas along the border have been overwhelmed, at times seeing three times as many migrants as they have beds in detention facilities, leading many to be directly released into the United States after initial questioning. Migrants taken into custody at the border who state a fear of persecution in their homelands typically receive a cursory interview with an asylum officer, and it is up to that officer to evaluate whether the persons story is credible enough to be referred to immigration courts for a fuller assessment. The initial screening is known as a credible fear assessment, and it has become a particular focus of frustration for the White House at a time when illegal border crossings have jumped to a 12-year high, exceeding 100,000 per month. The influx has swamped US agents and filled Border Patrol stations far beyond their capacity, forcing the government to frequently bypass the credible fear screening process and release tens of thousands of Central American families with little more than a notice to appear in court. Matthew Albence, the acting director of US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), said his agency has released 168,000 family members since 21 December. Weve released four times as many people as were able to arrest on an annual basis, said Mr Albence, noting that ICE makes approximately 40,000 at large arrests of immigration violators in the US interior each year. Statistics show most migrants who claim persecution pass the initial credible fear screening, but far fewer ultimately receive asylum from a judge. An avalanche of new applicants in recent years has contributed to a backlog of more than 860,000 cases in US immigration courts, and it can take years for an asylum applicant to get a final answer in court. That lag time that has created a loophole in US immigration enforcement, Homeland Security officials say, especially for applicants who arrive with children. Support free-thinking journalism and attend Independent events They are typically released from custody and allowed to remain in the country while their cases are adjudicated. The process allows them to spend years living and working in the United States, regardless of whether their claims are ultimately found to be valid. Trump adviser Stephen Miller has led the push to tighten up the asylum system, and his frustration with the slow pace of change was at the heart of his recent attempt to oust Francis Cissna, the head of CIS, according to three administration officials. Mr Cissna kept his job after senior GOP senators came to his defence and urged Trump to keep him. One senior DHS official said Mr Miller and others in the administration are struggling against an asylum officer corps that doesnt share its immigration goals and would rather refer an applicant to the courts than risk making the wrong choice in a rushed decision with life-or-death consequences. The administrations changes take effect immediately, and asylum officers will be trained in their application in coming weeks, according to the emails and CIS officials. The overhaul follows a White House directive last week ordering Homeland Security and Justice Department officials to tighten asylum rules by limiting access to work permits for applicants and charging fees for the first time to migrants who arrive on US soil seeking humanitarian protection. Baby girl returned to Honduran mother after separated and detained at US-Mexico border Those changes also direct the Justice Department to complete processing of asylum claims within 180 days. Mr Lafferty also told staff that 10 US Border Patrol agents had volunteered to join a pilot program that will train them to conduct credible fear screenings. As many as 50 agents will be trained in coming months, he said. The plan has raised concerns from immigrant advocates who say agents should not be making such consequential decisions about credibility of migrants deportation fears and their eligibility for humanitarian refuge. Credible fear interviews involve the discussion of sensitive, difficult issues, Julie Veroff, of the American Civil Liberties Unions Immigrant Rights Project, wrote Monday, calling the plan highly concerning. Federal law thus requires that credible fear interviews be conducted in a non-adversarial manner, Ms Veroff wrote. Credible fear interviews have always been conducted by professionals who specialise in asylum adjudication, not immigration enforcement. Washington Post Close Donald Trump laughs at Florida rally as supporter suggests shooting immigrants Donald Trumps eldest son, Don Jr, has been subpoenaed to testify before the Republican-led Senate Intelligence Committee over his contacts with Russia, sparking the latest drama in Washington surrounding that investigation. The subpoena comes as the White House remains at odds with Congress after the Democrat-controlled House Judiciary Committee voted on Wednesday to hold attorney general William Barr in contempt of Congress over his failure to release the full, unredacted Mueller report into alleged ties between the Trump administration and the Kremlin. Democrats have demanded the unredacted version of that report, but also the underlying evidence so they can weigh whether charges are warrant further legal action. That action may one day mean impeachment for Mr Trump as some Democrats like presidential candidate Elizabeth Warren have demanded but House speaker Nancy Pelosi said on Thursday that she does not believe the time has come for that effort. Ms Pelosi said that she plans on waiting for House committees to finish their investigations, and then she would be open to considering further actions. The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 Show all 25 1 /25 The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 Bernie Sanders The Vermont senator has launched a second bid for president after losing out to Hilary Clinton in the 2016 Democratic primaries. He is running on a similar platform of democratic socialist reform Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 Joe Biden The former vice president recently faced scrutiny for inappropriate touching of women, but was thought to deal with the criticism well and has since maintained a front runner status in national polling EPA The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 Elizabeth Warren The Massachusetts senator is a progressive Democrat, and a major supporter of regulating Wall Street Reuters The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 Amy Klobuchar Klobuchar is a Minnesota senator who earned praise for her contribution to the Brett Kavanaugh hearings Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 Michael Bloomberg Michael Bloomberg, a late addition to the 2020 race, announced his candidacy after months of speculation in November. He has launched a massive ad-buying campaign and issued an apology for the controversial "stop and frisk" programme that adversely impacted minority communities in New York City when he was mayor Getty Images The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 Tulsi Gabbard The Hawaii congresswoman announced her candidacy in January, but has faced tough questions on her past comments on LGBT+ rights and her stance on Syrian President Bashar al-Assad Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Pete Buttigieg The centrist Indiana mayor and war veteran would be the first openly LGBT+ president in American history Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Deval Patrick The former Massachusetts governor launched a late 2020 candidacy and received very little reception. With just a few short months until the first voters flock to the polls, the former governor is running as a centrist and believes he can unite the party's various voting blocs AFP/Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Beto O'Rourke The former Texas congressman formally launched his bid for the presidency in March. He ran on a progressive platform, stating that the US is driven by "gross differences in opportunity and outcome" AP The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Kamala Harris The former California attorney general was introduced to the national stage during Jeff Sessions testimony. She has endorsed Medicare-for-all and proposed a major tax-credit for the middle class AFP/Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Bill De Blasio The New York mayor announced his bid on 16 May 2019. He emerged in 2013 as a leading voice in the left wing of his party but struggled to build a national profile and has suffered a number of political setbacks in his time as mayor AFP/Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Steve Bullock The Montana governor announced his bid on 14 May. He stated "We need to defeat Donald Trump in 2020 and defeat the corrupt system that lets campaign money drown out the people's voice, so we can finally make good on the promise of a fair shot for everyone." He also highlighted the fact that he won the governor's seat in a red [Republican] state Reuters The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Cory Booker The New Jersey Senator has focused on restoring kindness and civility in American politics throughout his campaign, though he has failed to secure the same level of support and fundraising as several other senators running for the White House in 2020 Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Wayne Messam Mayor of the city of Miramar in the Miami metropolitan area, Wayne Messam said he intended to run on a progressive platform against the "broken" federal government. He favours gun regulations and was a signatory to a letter from some 400 mayors condemning President Trump's withdrawal from the Paris Climate Accord Vice News The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Kirsten Gillibrand The New York Senator formally announced her presidential bid in January, saying that healthcare should be a right, not a privilege Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: John Delaney The Maryland congressman was the first to launch his bid for presidency, making the announcement in 2017 AP The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Andrew Yang The entrepreneur announced his presidential candidacy by pledging that he would introduce a universal basic income of $1,000 a month to every American over the age of 18 Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Julian Castro The former San Antonio mayor announced his candidacy in January and said that his running has a special meaning for the Latino community in the US Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Marianne Williamson The author and spiritual adviser has announced her intention to run for president. She had previously run for congress as an independent in 2014 but was unsuccessful Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Eric Swalwell One of the younger candidates, Swalwell has served on multiple committees in the House of Representatives. He intended to make gun control central to his campaign but dropped out after his team said it was clear there was no path to victory Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Seth Moulton A Massachusetts congressman, Moulton is a former US soldier who is best known for trying to stop Nancy Pelosi from becoming speaker of the house. He dropped out of the race after not polling well in key states Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Jay Inslee Inslee has been governor of Washington since 2013. His bid was centred around climate change AFP/Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: John Hickenlooper The former governor of Colorado aimed to sell himself as an effective leader who was open to compromise, but failed to make a splash on the national stage Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Tim Ryan Ohio representative Tim Ryan ran on a campaign that hinged on his working class roots, though his messaging did not appear to resonate with voters Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Tom Steyer Democratic presidential hopeful billionaire and philanthropist Tom Steyer is a longtime Democratic donor AFP/Getty The president himself meanwhile addressed a rowdy rally in Panama City Beach, Florida, on Wednesday evening, where he pledged to deliver $448m (344m) in disaster relief funding seven months after the Panhandle was devastated by Hurricane Michael. While delivering that good news, the president also laughed and joked when a member of the crowd yelled about shooting Central American migrants, who he said constituted an invasion. Support free-thinking journalism and attend Independent events Please allow a moment for our liveblog to load Donald Trump laughed and joked after a supporter suggested shooting undocumented migrants who cross into the US from Mexico. The president was addressing a crowd of thousands at an outdoor amphitheatre in Panama City Beach, Florida, when he spoke about crossings at the southern border. When you have 15,000 people marching up, and you have hundreds and hundreds of [immigrants], and you have two or three border security people that are brave and great and dont forget we dont let them and we cant let them use weapons, Mr Trump said. We cant. Other countries do, we cant. I would never do that. But how do you stop these people? In response, someone from the audience shouted: Shoot them! Most shocking remarks made by Trump at campaign rallies Show all 7 1 /7 Most shocking remarks made by Trump at campaign rallies Most shocking remarks made by Trump at campaign rallies Doctors and mothers killing babies At a rally in Wisconsin in April 2019, Mr Trump made this extraordinary claim. The baby is born, the mother meets with the doctor, they take care of the baby, Mr Trump said. They wrap the baby beautifully and then the doctor and the mother decide whether they will execute the baby Getty Most shocking remarks made by Trump at campaign rallies "China rapes our country" At a rally in Fort Wayne, Indiana in 2016, Mr Trump said this in reference to the US trade deficit with China: "we cant continue to allow China to rape our country and thats what theyre doing. Its the greatest theft in the history of the world" Getty Most shocking remarks made by Trump at campaign rallies "EU formed to take advantage of US" At a rally for the midterm elections in October 2018, Mr Trump called the EU a "brutal" alliance that "formed to take advantage of us" AFP/Getty Most shocking remarks made by Trump at campaign rallies "I will build a wall and Mexico will pay for it" Mr Trump first made this claim at the launch of his presidential campaign back in 2015: "I will build a great, great wall on our southern border, and I will have Mexico pay for that wall. Mark my words" AFP/Getty Most shocking remarks made by Trump at campaign rallies "Horrible, horrendous people" At a Republican rally in Pennsylvania on August 3 2018, President Trump deemed all journalists in attendance "horrible, horrendous people". He later denounced the "fake, fake, disgusting news" for falsely reporting that he was late to his meeting with the Queen when visiting Britain AFP/Getty Most shocking remarks made by Trump at campaign rallies "I could stand in the middle of Fifth Avenue and shoot somebody" Mr Trump said this in reference to his popularity during a rally in Iowa in 2016 AFP/Getty Most shocking remarks made by Trump at campaign rallies "I wish I could punch him" Mr Trump said this in reference to a protester who was escorted out of his rally in Las Vegas on 22 February, 2016. There was often violence between protesters and supporters at Trump's campaign rallies AFP/Getty Mr Trump then appeared to laugh before shaking his head and saying: Thats only in the Panhandle you can get away with that statement. The crowd then erupted into laughter and cheers, and Mr Trump added: Only in the Panhandle! Mr Trump also used the speech to promise federal aid to the Florida Panhandle seven months after Hurricane Michael devastated the region. The president was hoping to rally loyalists in the reliably Republican corner of the swing state as he campaigns for the 2020 presidency. Federal emergency funds intended to help the area hit by the category 5 hurricane and elsewhere have been caught up in a standoff in Washington over Mr Trumps opposition to giving more hurricane aid to Puerto Rico. Youre getting your money one way or another, Mr Trump promised supporters while holding up a chart showing federal emergency aid to Florida, Texas and the island territory, before he added: And were not going to let anybody hold it up. Donald Trump says China 'broke the deal' after trade talks He also told his supporters not to worry about upcoming talks between US and Chinese negotiators, including his threat to increase tariffs on nearly all Chinese imports by the end of the week. They broke the deal in talks meant to de-escalate a year-long trade war, he said. We wont back down until China stops, Mr Trump added. The era of economic surrender is over. Democrats are preparing for a legal battle to obtain Donald Trumps tax returns an issue that has taken on outsized importance while the president has claimed huge businesses losses he suffered during the 1980s were an intentional write off. Members of the House of Representatives are to meet to consider their next step, after Mr Trumps treasury secretary refused to release the returns they had requested. Reports suggested Democrats will decide to head directly to court and claim treasury secretary Steven Mnuchin was in breach of an Internal Revenue Service (IRS) law, without bothering to first issue a subpoena. Doing so would further escalate the standoff between Democrats on Capitol Hill and the White House, which has so far resisted a succession of demands to either hand over documents, or make available officials to testify. Congressman Richard Neal, the Democratic chair of the House of Representatives Committee on Ways and Means, will meet with colleagues on Thursday to discuss the way forward after obfuscation from the Trump administration. The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 Show all 25 1 /25 The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 Bernie Sanders The Vermont senator has launched a second bid for president after losing out to Hilary Clinton in the 2016 Democratic primaries. He is running on a similar platform of democratic socialist reform Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 Joe Biden The former vice president recently faced scrutiny for inappropriate touching of women, but was thought to deal with the criticism well and has since maintained a front runner status in national polling EPA The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 Elizabeth Warren The Massachusetts senator is a progressive Democrat, and a major supporter of regulating Wall Street Reuters The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 Amy Klobuchar Klobuchar is a Minnesota senator who earned praise for her contribution to the Brett Kavanaugh hearings Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 Michael Bloomberg Michael Bloomberg, a late addition to the 2020 race, announced his candidacy after months of speculation in November. He has launched a massive ad-buying campaign and issued an apology for the controversial "stop and frisk" programme that adversely impacted minority communities in New York City when he was mayor Getty Images The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 Tulsi Gabbard The Hawaii congresswoman announced her candidacy in January, but has faced tough questions on her past comments on LGBT+ rights and her stance on Syrian President Bashar al-Assad Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Pete Buttigieg The centrist Indiana mayor and war veteran would be the first openly LGBT+ president in American history Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Deval Patrick The former Massachusetts governor launched a late 2020 candidacy and received very little reception. With just a few short months until the first voters flock to the polls, the former governor is running as a centrist and believes he can unite the party's various voting blocs AFP/Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Beto O'Rourke The former Texas congressman formally launched his bid for the presidency in March. He ran on a progressive platform, stating that the US is driven by "gross differences in opportunity and outcome" AP The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Kamala Harris The former California attorney general was introduced to the national stage during Jeff Sessions testimony. She has endorsed Medicare-for-all and proposed a major tax-credit for the middle class AFP/Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Bill De Blasio The New York mayor announced his bid on 16 May 2019. He emerged in 2013 as a leading voice in the left wing of his party but struggled to build a national profile and has suffered a number of political setbacks in his time as mayor AFP/Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Steve Bullock The Montana governor announced his bid on 14 May. He stated "We need to defeat Donald Trump in 2020 and defeat the corrupt system that lets campaign money drown out the people's voice, so we can finally make good on the promise of a fair shot for everyone." He also highlighted the fact that he won the governor's seat in a red [Republican] state Reuters The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Cory Booker The New Jersey Senator has focused on restoring kindness and civility in American politics throughout his campaign, though he has failed to secure the same level of support and fundraising as several other senators running for the White House in 2020 Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Wayne Messam Mayor of the city of Miramar in the Miami metropolitan area, Wayne Messam said he intended to run on a progressive platform against the "broken" federal government. He favours gun regulations and was a signatory to a letter from some 400 mayors condemning President Trump's withdrawal from the Paris Climate Accord Vice News The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Kirsten Gillibrand The New York Senator formally announced her presidential bid in January, saying that healthcare should be a right, not a privilege Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: John Delaney The Maryland congressman was the first to launch his bid for presidency, making the announcement in 2017 AP The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Andrew Yang The entrepreneur announced his presidential candidacy by pledging that he would introduce a universal basic income of $1,000 a month to every American over the age of 18 Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Julian Castro The former San Antonio mayor announced his candidacy in January and said that his running has a special meaning for the Latino community in the US Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Marianne Williamson The author and spiritual adviser has announced her intention to run for president. She had previously run for congress as an independent in 2014 but was unsuccessful Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Eric Swalwell One of the younger candidates, Swalwell has served on multiple committees in the House of Representatives. He intended to make gun control central to his campaign but dropped out after his team said it was clear there was no path to victory Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Seth Moulton A Massachusetts congressman, Moulton is a former US soldier who is best known for trying to stop Nancy Pelosi from becoming speaker of the house. He dropped out of the race after not polling well in key states Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Jay Inslee Inslee has been governor of Washington since 2013. His bid was centred around climate change AFP/Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: John Hickenlooper The former governor of Colorado aimed to sell himself as an effective leader who was open to compromise, but failed to make a splash on the national stage Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Tim Ryan Ohio representative Tim Ryan ran on a campaign that hinged on his working class roots, though his messaging did not appear to resonate with voters Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Tom Steyer Democratic presidential hopeful billionaire and philanthropist Tom Steyer is a longtime Democratic donor AFP/Getty I believe Mr Neal does not need a subpoena to go to court, congressman Steny Hoyer, the second most senior Democrat in the House, told Politico. There is a big picture here. The picture of perhaps the greatest cover up of any president in American history just a blanket were not giving you information. Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Mr Hoyers boss, agreed, telling the Washington Post: There are several options. One of them is to go directly to court. Among the documents Democrats have been seeking, is a full, unredacted copy of special counsel Robert Muellers report into Russias alleged interference in the 2016 election, and possible collusion with the Trump campaign. After the department of justice refused to provide a copy, House Democrats on Wednesday took the rare step of voting to hold attorney general William Barr in contempt of Congress. We are now in a constitutional crisis, said Jerry Nadler, Democratic chair of the House judiciary committee, after it voted 24-16 on party lines. The resolution on Mr Barr now goes to the full House. A partly-redacted version of Mr Muellers 448-page report was released last month. In it, the former FBI director said he did not find evidence of collusion between Mr Trumps campaign and Russia, but he did not exonerate the president on the question of possible obstruction of justice. Indeed, the report highlighted around a dozen incidents that could have been interpreted as attempts by Mr Trump to interfere with the investigation or terminate it. Since then, with Mr Trump having falsely claimed the report cleared him of both collusion and obstruction, the White House has gone into lockdown mode, denying requests for documents, and for testimony from officials such as former White House counsel Don McGahn. On Wednesday evening it was revealed Mr Trump's eldest son, Donald Trump Jr, had been subpoenaed by the Senate intelligence committee, which wants to quiz him about a meeting he had with a group of Russians in June 2016. The same has been true, only for a longer period, in regard to Mr Trumps tax returns, which he claimed he cannot make public the first president since 1976 not to do so as they are being audited by the IRS. Experts say even if they were being audited, no law prevents them from being released. Donald Trump's tax return in numbers This week, the New York Times published some details of what it said were Mr Trumps finances, showing he lost more than $1bn from 1985 to 1994. The newspaper said its reporting was based on printouts it acquired of the presidents official IRS tax transcripts, including figures from his federal tax form. Mr Trump reported business losses of $46.1m in 1985, and a total of $1.17bn in losses for the 10-year period, it said. On Wednesday, New York states senate approved a bill that would allow three congressional committees to get access to Mr Trumps state tax returns, giving Democrats a potential way of overcoming the administrations refusal to disclose the presidents federal returns. Mr Trump tweeted that he secured massive tax write offs during the 1980s and 1990s, along with other property speculators, and claimed it was a sport. Real estate developers in the 1980s & 1990s, more than 30 years ago, were entitled to massive write offs and depreciation which would, if one was actively building, show losses and tax losses in almost all cases, Mr Trump tweeted. Sometimes considered tax shelter, you would get it by building, or even buying. You always wanted to show losses for tax purposes....almost all real estate developers did and often re-negotiate with banks, it was sport. Nonetheless, he claimed the report in the newspaper was a highly inaccurate fake news hit job based on old information. New York state has steadily passed legislation in recent days that seeks to limit the presidents pardon powers and curtail his ability to withhold his tax returns from Congress. The states senate voted on Wednesday in favour of a bill that requires local agencies to comply with requests for state tax returns from the heads of Congresss House ways and means committee, the Senate finance committee or the joint committee on taxation. New Yorks senate also voted to support legislation that allows state prosecutors including Attorney General Letitia James to file charges against certain members of the presidents orbit if they have received pardons for federal crimes. Those who received presidential pardons would need to be members of the presidents family, former employees, or there must be a clear and present conflict of interest in order for New York state to invoke its new so-called double-jeopardy loophole. The senates tax return legislation is expected to pass in the state assembly before governor Andrew Cuomo a prominent opponent to Mr Trump signs it into law. That means Mr Trumps home-state could be the first to provide Congressional committees probing the presidents financial dealings with copies of his tax returns after the president defied modern precedent by refusing to disclose his returns. It also means the states attorney general who sailed to victory in her recent election on a message of holding the nations most powerful institutions accountable could soon be able to file new charges against Mr Trumps former campaign chairman Paul Manafort, who the president has suggested he may pardon. 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 Manafort is a former New York state resident currently serving a prison sentence over bank and tax fraud charges, as well as for witness tampering and failing to disclose lobbying work. Discussing the possibility of pardoning his ex-campaign boss in a November interview with the New York Post, Mr Trump said: It was never discussed, but I wouldnt take it off the table. Why would I take it off the table? Recommended Manafort indicted in NYC on charges beyond pardon power of Trump New York has been one of the most important states to have served as a form of checks-and-balances against Mr Trumps administration, launching subpoenas for multiple banks the president has been known to deal with and new investigations into his finances. Here you have a president who is stonewalling the US Congress, a co-equal branch of government undertaking its important oversight responsibilities, New York state senator Brad Hoylman told CBS News about the tax legislation. Support free-thinking journalism and attend Independent events He added, Lo and behold, we have Donald Trumps tax returns here in the state of New York and we can provide them to Congress if the IRS, if the treasury department wont. Donald Trumps Art of the Deal co-author has suggested it be marketed as a work of fiction in the light of reports showing Mr Trumps businesses lost more than $1bn (765) in the 1980s and 90s. The real estate mogul lost so much money he did not pay income tax for eight years, documents first uncovered by The New York Times showed. Tony Schwartz, his co-author, said on Twitter: Given the Times report on Trumps staggering losses, Id be fine if Random House simply took the book out of print. Or recategorised it as fiction. However, the US president tweeted in response to the initial reports that you always wanted to show losses for tax purposes ... almost all real estate developers did, hinting that some of the losses may have part of been a tax shelter scheme. Mr Schwartzs comments came after Steven Mnuchin, the treasury secretary, was accused of breaking the law by refusing to release Mr Trumps more recent tax returns. Most shocking remarks made by Trump at campaign rallies Show all 7 1 /7 Most shocking remarks made by Trump at campaign rallies Most shocking remarks made by Trump at campaign rallies Doctors and mothers killing babies At a rally in Wisconsin in April 2019, Mr Trump made this extraordinary claim. The baby is born, the mother meets with the doctor, they take care of the baby, Mr Trump said. They wrap the baby beautifully and then the doctor and the mother decide whether they will execute the baby Getty Most shocking remarks made by Trump at campaign rallies "China rapes our country" At a rally in Fort Wayne, Indiana in 2016, Mr Trump said this in reference to the US trade deficit with China: "we cant continue to allow China to rape our country and thats what theyre doing. Its the greatest theft in the history of the world" Getty Most shocking remarks made by Trump at campaign rallies "EU formed to take advantage of US" At a rally for the midterm elections in October 2018, Mr Trump called the EU a "brutal" alliance that "formed to take advantage of us" AFP/Getty Most shocking remarks made by Trump at campaign rallies "I will build a wall and Mexico will pay for it" Mr Trump first made this claim at the launch of his presidential campaign back in 2015: "I will build a great, great wall on our southern border, and I will have Mexico pay for that wall. Mark my words" AFP/Getty Most shocking remarks made by Trump at campaign rallies "Horrible, horrendous people" At a Republican rally in Pennsylvania on August 3 2018, President Trump deemed all journalists in attendance "horrible, horrendous people". He later denounced the "fake, fake, disgusting news" for falsely reporting that he was late to his meeting with the Queen when visiting Britain AFP/Getty Most shocking remarks made by Trump at campaign rallies "I could stand in the middle of Fifth Avenue and shoot somebody" Mr Trump said this in reference to his popularity during a rally in Iowa in 2016 AFP/Getty Most shocking remarks made by Trump at campaign rallies "I wish I could punch him" Mr Trump said this in reference to a protester who was escorted out of his rally in Las Vegas on 22 February, 2016. There was often violence between protesters and supporters at Trump's campaign rallies AFP/Getty And New York state has passed legislation that seeks to limit the presidents ability to withhold his tax returns from Congress. The state senate backed a bill on Wednesday that would force local agencies to hand over tax returns to a number of congressional and senate committees if asked. The US ambassador to Hungary has said Donald Trump would love to have the situation Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has while discussing the nations so-called illiberal democracy. David Cornstein, an American businessman and diplomat serving as the US ambassador to Hungary, was discussing the prime ministers own description of his government as an illiberal democracy in a wide-ranging interview with The Atlantic published Thursday when he made the controversial comments. An illiberal democracy is effectively a governing system wherein elections are held but liberal freedoms are also violated. Effectively an oxymoron, an illiberal democracy often features intolerance towards minority groups like immigrants and the LGBTQ+ community. Its a question of a personal view, or what the American people, or the president of the United States, think of illiberal democracy, and what its definition is, Mr Cornstein told the news outlet. I can tell you, knowing the president for a good 25 or 30 years, that he would love to have the situation that Viktor Orban has, but he doesnt, he added. Most shocking remarks made by Trump at campaign rallies Show all 7 1 /7 Most shocking remarks made by Trump at campaign rallies Most shocking remarks made by Trump at campaign rallies Doctors and mothers killing babies At a rally in Wisconsin in April 2019, Mr Trump made this extraordinary claim. The baby is born, the mother meets with the doctor, they take care of the baby, Mr Trump said. They wrap the baby beautifully and then the doctor and the mother decide whether they will execute the baby Getty Most shocking remarks made by Trump at campaign rallies "China rapes our country" At a rally in Fort Wayne, Indiana in 2016, Mr Trump said this in reference to the US trade deficit with China: "we cant continue to allow China to rape our country and thats what theyre doing. Its the greatest theft in the history of the world" Getty Most shocking remarks made by Trump at campaign rallies "EU formed to take advantage of US" At a rally for the midterm elections in October 2018, Mr Trump called the EU a "brutal" alliance that "formed to take advantage of us" AFP/Getty Most shocking remarks made by Trump at campaign rallies "I will build a wall and Mexico will pay for it" Mr Trump first made this claim at the launch of his presidential campaign back in 2015: "I will build a great, great wall on our southern border, and I will have Mexico pay for that wall. Mark my words" AFP/Getty Most shocking remarks made by Trump at campaign rallies "Horrible, horrendous people" At a Republican rally in Pennsylvania on August 3 2018, President Trump deemed all journalists in attendance "horrible, horrendous people". He later denounced the "fake, fake, disgusting news" for falsely reporting that he was late to his meeting with the Queen when visiting Britain AFP/Getty Most shocking remarks made by Trump at campaign rallies "I could stand in the middle of Fifth Avenue and shoot somebody" Mr Trump said this in reference to his popularity during a rally in Iowa in 2016 AFP/Getty Most shocking remarks made by Trump at campaign rallies "I wish I could punch him" Mr Trump said this in reference to a protester who was escorted out of his rally in Las Vegas on 22 February, 2016. There was often violence between protesters and supporters at Trump's campaign rallies AFP/Getty In launching his partys campaign for the European Parliamentary elections this month, the prime minister presented a seven-point plan against immigration. Mr Orban called for migration to be controlled by national governments, not European Union bureaucrats and repeated his view that no country should be forced to accept immigrants against its will. He also urged the EU to stop funding civic groups that support asylum-seekers and said no one in Europe should suffer discrimination because they are Christians. At stake is whether the EU will have pro-immigration or anti-immigration leaders, the prime minister told a gathering of Fidesz members and supporters. We will decide whether to defend our Christian European culture or yield the terrain to multiculturalism. Last month, the membership of Mr Orbans Fidesz party in the largest bloc in the European Parliament, the centre-right European Peoples Party, was suspended while the prime ministers policies are scrutinised by an EPP delegation. Some members of the alliance believe Mr Orban has strayed too far from its Christian Democratic values. Support free-thinking journalism and attend Independent events Mr Orban, meanwhile, has claimed the Peoples Party is turning left, in a liberal direction and ... toward a Europe of immigrants. The Associated Press contributed to this report Venezuelas deputy opposition leader has been towed to prison in his car in the first arrest since a failed uprising last week. Edgar Zambrano, vice-president of the national assembly, refused to leave the vehicle when approached by agents from Venezuelas Bolivarian Intelligence Service (Sebin) on Wednesday. As a result, the car was dragged away to the notorious El Helicoide prison in Caracas with the senior opposition figure still inside. It was the first arrest of a lawmaker since opposition leader Juan Guaido tried and failed to spark a military uprising to bring down president Nicolas Maduros government last week. Mr Zambrano tweeted at about 6.40pm local time: We were surprised by the Sebin, and after refusing to let us leave our vehicle, they used a tow truck to forcibly transfer us directly to the [Sebin headquarters] Helicoide. Venezuela protests: thousands rally against government Show all 18 1 /18 Venezuela protests: thousands rally against government Venezuela protests: thousands rally against government Protesters clash with the Bolivarian National Police during a demonstration against the government of the Venezuela and president Nicolas Maduro in Caracas on 23 January 2019 EPA Venezuela protests: thousands rally against government Demonstrators cheer as Venezuela's National Assembly head Juan Guaido declares himself the country's "acting president" at a rally in Caracas AFP/Getty Images Venezuela protests: thousands rally against government Opposition supporters take part in a rally against Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro's government REUTERS Venezuela protests: thousands rally against government Opposition supporters take part in a rally against Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro's government in Caracas REUTERS Venezuela protests: thousands rally against government Juan Guaido, head of Venezuela's opposition-run congress, declares himself interim president of the nation until elections can be held during a rally in Caracas demanding leader Nicolas Maduro's resignation AP Venezuela protests: thousands rally against government Opposition supporters carry letters to form the word "Democracy" while taking part in a rally against Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro's government REUTERS Venezuela protests: thousands rally against government Police watch over marching anti-government protesters in Caracas EPA Venezuela protests: thousands rally against government A vehicle is overturned as opposition demonstrators block a road during a protest against the Venezuelan government AFP/Getty Images Venezuela protests: thousands rally against government A National Police officer fires rubber bullets during a protest against Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro's government in Caracas REUTERS Venezuela protests: thousands rally against government A demonstrator throws back a gas canister while clashing with security forces during a rally against Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro's government in Caracas REUTERS Venezuela protests: thousands rally against government Security forces look on after clashing with opposition supporters participating in a rally against Venezuelan president Nicolas Maduro's government REUTERS Venezuela protests: thousands rally against government Demonstrators during a protest against the government of Nicolas Maduro at Plaza Altamira in Caracas Getty Images Venezuela protests: thousands rally against government Demonstrators during a protest against the government of Nicolas Maduro at Plaza Altamira in Caracas Getty Images Venezuela protests: thousands rally against government EPA Venezuela protests: thousands rally against government AFP/Getty Images Venezuela protests: thousands rally against government The remains of a statue of Venezuela's late President Hugo Chavez is seen hanging from a pedestrian bridge after it was destroyed in San Felix, Venezuela REUTERS Venezuela protests: thousands rally against government Riot police on motorcycles clash with opposition demonstrators during protests in Caracas AFP/Getty Images Venezuela protests: thousands rally against government Supporters celebrate Juan Guaido declaration that he is Venezuelan president EPA Opposition leader Mr Guaido called his deputys arrest absurd and claimed on Twitter that the regime has kidnapped the first vice president. The US governments Venezuelan embassy meanwhile said his arbitrary detention was illegal and inexcusable and warned there would be consequences. Juan Guaido (right) with Edgar Zambrano (Reuters) (REUTERS/Manaure Quintero) Venezuelas pro-Maduro constituent assembly agreed on Tuesday to strip Mr Zambrano and six other lawmakers of their parliamentary immunity to allow their future prosecution. Diosdado Cabello, head of the constituent assembly, said in comments broadcast on state television: One of the principal conspirators of the coup has just been arrested. They will have to pay before the courts for the failed coup that they attempted. Mr Guaido declared himself interim president of Venezuela in January, backed by the US and 50 other nations, arguing that Mr Maduros re-election last year was fraudulent. Mr Maduro has overseen the collapse of Venezuelas economy, which has shrunk by half over the past five years, forcing more than three million Venezuelans to emigrate. With additional reporting by Reuters North Korea has fired two short-range missiles just days after its leader Kim Jong-un oversaw the test-firing of multiple rockets and another missile, South Korea said. The missiles were fired from the town of Sino-ri, which is northwest of the capital Pyongyang. They flew 261 miles and 168 miles respectively towards the east, Seouls joint chiefs of staff said in a statement, and were fired at about 4.30pm local time (07.30 GMT). One thing is clear theres no doubt that it is a missile, Yang Uk, senior research fellow at the Korea Defence and Security Forum, said. North Korea has returned to its classic escalation tactics from before. I believe they will keep escalating by using what appear to be short-range missiles, something that will not cause the US to react right away. North Korea South Korea relations: in pictures Show all 21 1 /21 North Korea South Korea relations: in pictures North Korea South Korea relations: in pictures Pukguksong-2 missile - 2 May 2017 A solid-fuel "Pukguksong-2" missile lifts off during its launch test in North Korea on May 22, 2017. They said that it was examining operational plans for attacking Guam, an angry reaction to UN punishment for previous North Korean intercontinental ballistic missile tests and a US suggestion about preparations for possible preventive attacks to stop the North's nuclear weapons program. Korean Central News Agency/Korea News Service via AP North Korea South Korea relations: in pictures Hwasong-12 -16 September 2017 North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un inspecting a launching drill of the medium-and-long range strategic ballistic rocket Hwasong-12 at an undisclosed location. Kim vowed to complete North Korea's nuclear force despite sanctions, saying the final goal of his country's weapons development is "equilibrium of real force" with the United States, state media reported on September 16, 2017. AFP/Getty Images North Korea South Korea relations: in pictures Donald Trump address South Korean assembly - 7 November 2017 President Donald Trump talks with South Korean President Moon Jae-In during their joint press conference at the presidential Blue House on November 7, 2017 in Seoul.Trump was the first US President to address the South Korean National Assembly since President Clinton in 1993. He addressed Kim Jong Un warning him to not underestimate the US and that for talks to materialize then Pyongyang would need to take steps into denuclearization. Getty North Korea South Korea relations: in pictures Demilitarized Zone Haean-Myeon, is a small military town near the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) and border between North and South Korea, in Gangwon province. The zone is a strip of land running across the Korean Peninsula and was created after the 'Korean Armistice Agreement'. Any negotiations between the two countries tend to take place in this zone. AFP/Getty Images North Korea South Korea relations: in pictures Declared state sponsor of terrorism by Trump - 20 November 2017 President Donald Trump speaks to the media during a cabinet meeting at the White House on November 20, 2017, where he officially designated North Korea as a state sponsor of terrorism. North Korea had previously been on the list, however was removed in 2008. Getty North Korea South Korea relations: in pictures Hwasong-15 intercontinental ballistic missile - 29 November 2017 The North Korean government launches it's Hwasong-15 intercontinental ballistic missile at an undisclosed location in North Korea on November 29, 2017. It is supposedly capable of reaching all parts of the US. Korean Central News Agency via AP North Korea South Korea relations: in pictures Hwasong-15 intercontinental ballistic missile - 29 November 2017 North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un celebrating the launch of the Hwasong-15 missile on November 29, 2017. AFP/Getty North Korea South Korea relations: in pictures Kim Jong-Un New Year's speech - 1 January 2018 North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un delivering his New Year's speech. He vowed North Korea would mass-produce nuclear warheads and missiles in a defiant New Year message on January 1 suggesting he would continue to accelerate a rogue weapons programme that has stoked international tensions. Korean Central News Agency via AFP/Getty North Korea South Korea relations: in pictures Intercontinental ballistic missile ice sculpture - 1 January 2018 Fireworks are seen above the Taedong River during New Year celebrations as visitors pose for a photo in front of an ice sculpture of an intercontinental ballistic missile at the Pyongyang Ice Sculpture Festival in Kim Il Sung Square in North Korea on 1 January, 2018. REUTERS North Korea South Korea relations: in pictures US-South Korean military drills postponed - 4 January 2018 South Korean President Moon Jae-in talks with US President Donald Trump on January 4, 2018 in Seoul. South Korea and US agreed to delay the annual "Foal Eagle" military drills until after the PyeongChang Winter Olympic Games in an effort to "de-conflict" the Games and "focus on ensuring the security" of the event. South Korean Presidential Blue House via Getty North Korea South Korea relations: in pictures North and South Korea have first official talks in over two years - 9 January 2018 Vehicles transporting the South Korean delegation, led by South Korean Unification Ministrer Cho Myoung-Gyon, drive past a checkpoint on the road connecting South and North Korea at the Unification Bridge, near the Demilitarized zone (DMZ) separating them both on January 9, 2018 in Paju. They began their first official face-to-face talks in two years. Getty North Korea South Korea relations: in pictures North and South Korea have first official talks in over two years - 9 January 2018 Members of the South Korea delegation (R) shake hands with members of the North Korean delegation (L) during their meeting at the border truce village of Panmunjom in the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) dividing the two Koreas on January 9, 2018. They focused on the forthcoming Winter Olympics after months of tensions over Pyongyang's nuclear weapons programme. AFP/Getty North Korea South Korea relations: in pictures Foreign Ministers Meeting on Security and Stability on the Korean Peninsula - 16 January 2018 Foreign Ministers from twenty countries from North and South America, Asia, and Europe pose for a photo at the Vancouver Foreign Ministers Meeting on Security and Stability on the Korean Peninsula, in Vancouver on January 16, 2018. The US urged an escalation in pressure on North Korea over its nuclear missile program, despite a more cautious tone from key US ally South Korea. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson, co-hosted the event with Canada's foreign minister Chrystia Freeland, and called for North Korean ships to be intercepted and for new punitive measures to be implemented every time Pyongyang tests new weapons. AFP/Getty North Korea South Korea relations: in pictures North Korea and South Korea to march together at Winter Olympics - 20 January 2018 PyeongChang 2018 Olympics President Lee Hee-beom, North Korea's Sports Minister and Olympic Committee president Kim Il Guk, International Olympic Committee President Thomas Bach, South Korean Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism Do Jong-hwan and South Korea's National Olympic Committee President Lee Kee-heung join their hands as they pose during a signing ceremony at the Olympic Museum on January 20, 2018 in Lausanne. North Korea will send 22 athletes to the Winter Games in the South. The two nations will also march together at the opening ceremony. AFP/Getty North Korea South Korea relations: in pictures Anti-North Korea activists protest delegation arrival - 22 January 2018 Anti-North Korea activists burn a portrait of leader Kim Jong-Un during a rally Seoul Station as a North Korean delegation arrived to check out performance venues for the Winter Olympics on January 22, 2018. Protesters led by the Korean Patriots Party gathered and complained that the talks to encourage North Korea's participation is stealing the spotlight from their country to the benefit of the regime. Donga Daily via Getty North Korea South Korea relations: in pictures Panmunjom - 7 February 2018 South Korean soldiers stand guard at the border village of Panmunjom in the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) between South and North Korea on February 7, 2018. In a sign of thawing bilateral ties, North Korea today announced that Kim Yo-jong, the sister of North Korean leader, Kim Jong-un, will attend the opening ceremony of the PyeongChang Winter Olympic Games. Getty Images North Korea South Korea relations: in pictures North Korean ferry arrives in South Korea - 6 February 2018 North Korean ferry Mangyongbong-92 carrying a 140-strong orchestra approaches a port in Donghae, South Korea, February 6, 2018. REUTERS North Korea South Korea relations: in pictures Anti-North Korea protest - 6 February 2018 A member of a conservative civic group tears a portrait of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un during an anti-North Korea protest as the North Korean ferry Mangyongbong-92 carrying a 140-strong orchestra approached. REUTERS North Korea South Korea relations: in pictures North Korea at the athletes village - 8 February 2018 A North Korean flag is seen hanging on a building at the Winter Olympics athletes village in Gangneung, South Korea. REUTERS North Korea South Korea relations: in pictures Olympic Welcome ceremony - 8 February 2018 Democratic People's Republic of Korea Vice Sports Minister Won Gil-woo receives a gift from mayor of the Olympic Village Kim Ki-hoon during the welcome ceremony ahead of the PyeongChang 2018 Games at the Olympic Village on 8 February, 2018 in South Korea. Getty Images North Korea South Korea relations: in pictures Mike Pence meets Moon Jae-in - 8 February 2018 US Vice President Mike Pence shakes hands with South Korean President Moon Jae-in before their meeting at the presidential office in Seoul, South Korea on 8 February, 2018. REUTERS The projectiles are thought to have been launched from the site of a medium-range Rodong missile base on North Koreas west coast. South Korean intelligence agencies are continuing to assess information about the new launches. Talks between the United States and North Korea about the latters nuclear arsenal have reached a stalemate in recent months. The new missile tests come as a top US envoy arrived in South Korea for discussions on how to break the deadlock. Analysts suggest North Korea is trying to increase pressure on the US after its refusal to make concessions, according to the BBC. On Saturday, North Korea fired a number of rockets from its east coast into the ocean, but said on Wednesday they were regular and defensive and not provocative. After Thursdays launch, South Koreas military said it had stepped up monitoring and security in case of another launch, and was working with the US to get additional information about the missiles involved. The incumbent prime minister of Thailands ruling military junta appears set to cling on to the reins of power despite a pro-democracy opposition party winning the most seats in the countrys March general election. Final election results released late on Wednesday evening six weeks after the vote itself confirmed that the opposition Pheu Thai party won 136 seats in the 500-member lower house, beating the pro-military proxy party of the junta on 97 seats. However, due to the way Thailands electoral system has been skewed in favour of the junta by a new military-drafted constitution, the 2014 coup leader general Prayuth Chan-ocha is expected to win a vote to be named prime minister for a second term. Thailands first election in eight years was billed as a triumphant return of democracy to the country. But allegations of systemic rigging, vote irregularities, questionable rulings by the military-appointed election commission and a lengthy delay in announcing final tallies mean the results are likely to face a string of legal challenges. Part of the delay in announcing the final results has been due to confusion about the last 150 of the 500 lower house seats, which are awarded proportionately by the election commission based on each partys total of the nationwide popular vote. Coronation of Thailand King Maha Vajiralongkorn: In pictures Show all 9 1 /9 Coronation of Thailand King Maha Vajiralongkorn: In pictures Coronation of Thailand King Maha Vajiralongkorn: In pictures EPA Coronation of Thailand King Maha Vajiralongkorn: In pictures EPA Coronation of Thailand King Maha Vajiralongkorn: In pictures REUTERS Coronation of Thailand King Maha Vajiralongkorn: In pictures AFP/Getty Images Coronation of Thailand King Maha Vajiralongkorn: In pictures AP Coronation of Thailand King Maha Vajiralongkorn: In pictures AFP/Getty Images Coronation of Thailand King Maha Vajiralongkorn: In pictures EPA Coronation of Thailand King Maha Vajiralongkorn: In pictures EPA Coronation of Thailand King Maha Vajiralongkorn: In pictures Getty Images Yet bizarrely, the commission said on Wednesday that while the second placed party of General Prayuth would receive an extra 18 of the party list seats, Pheu Thai would receive none. Pheu Thai and a coalition of pro-democracy parties calculated, based on preliminary results, they would have around 255 of the 500 seats giving them a claim to have first go at forming a government. The way the seats were ultimately allocated meant they had just 245, prompting widespread accusations on social media that the election commission had deliberately interpreted the formula for the party list seats in a way that ensured Pheu Thai fell short of a majority. Anon Chawalawan, a researcher from the Thai human rights and transparency NGO iLaw, told The Independent the election commission had awarded seats to tiny political parties that won as few as 30,000 votes nationwide, rather than giving them to the major opposition bloc, in a way that appeared contrary to the rules set out for proportional representation in the constitution. When the election commission presented the results to the media, they did not say what the procedure was, how these seats were calculated, Mr Chawalawan said. Even now, six weeks after the votes were cast, the whole issue remains uncertain. This is not what we would call transparent, he said. Pheu Thai issued a statement saying the election commission (EC) deliberately intended to commit wrongdoing and misused its power, violating the constitution and the law. The party will later take legal measures in every aspect against the EC, it said. Under Thailands system, 250 unelected members of the senate, the upper house of parliament, also get to take part in a vote to select the prime minister. All 250 are selected by the military. General Prayuth should therefore easily be able to return to office because he only needs to get on board the support of around 60 members of smaller parties to form a coalition surpassing 375 votes in both the lower house and senate. But he will struggle to pass any meaningful legislation if his opponents control the lower house, and a minority government would not be expected to last long. Aside from the skewed system in which they were operating, opposition parties have complained of widespread intimidation tactics and irregularities on the day of the vote itself. The NGO Forces of Renewal for Southeast Asia issued a report which it said documented instances of election fraud crowdsourced from thousands of Thai citizens eyewitness accounts and then verified by the organisations experts. The report identified eight different types of voting irregularities, and concluded from its evidence that beyond any doubt, the long-promised elections were rigged to ensure a victory of the pro-junta party. Support free-thinking journalism and attend Independent events The scale of fraud on election day was unprecedented in Thailand, the reports lead author Dr Pavin Chachavalpongpun told The Independent. Irregularities, he said, included the state tampering with ballot boxes, using unauthorised vehicles to transport ballots, deliberately destroyed campaigning materials of opposing parties, as well as the obvious tactic of vote-buying. A second opposition party also performed strongly in the main vote on 24 March. The newly-formed Future Forward Party appears to have spooked the military leadership by winning an impressive 87 seats based on the preliminary count. On Wednesday, the election commission reduced its seat total to 80, further hurting the chances of the pro-democratic alliance which it too had joined. The partys secretary-general, Piyabutr Saengkanokkul, called the commissions calculations absurd. Meanwhile its leader, Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit, has faced efforts to get him disqualified from politics, with several cases brought by prosecutors still pending. The election commission has denied being biased towards extending the military regime. It defended the lengthy delay in announcing results, saying it could not declare the party list winners until all complaints of election misconduct had been settled. Officials are also understood to have been keen to wait until after the new kings coronation before beginning a process of finalising the results that set a timetable for a new parliament to be formed. King Vajiralongkorn, officially crowned five days ago, will be required to open the new parliament. One candidate ranted about the danger of the homosexual lifestyle. Another called for the genital mutilation of non-Muslim women who support Islam. A third made light of rape, and yet another boasted that he had done more Asian than I know what to do with. Nearly every day in the brief run-up to the Australian election on 18 May, voters have confronted a new revelation of toxic speech by politicians, propagated largely on social media. The offensive remarks have forced at least six candidates for parliament to quit, while many more linger like zombies most of them from the conservative governing coalition and other parties on the right. Tens of thousands protest against Australia Day Show all 8 1 /8 Tens of thousands protest against Australia Day Tens of thousands protest against Australia Day Invasion Day protesters march down a street during Australia Day in Brisbane, Australia. EPA Tens of thousands protest against Australia Day Invasion Day protesters march down a street during Australia Day in Brisbane, Australia. EPA Tens of thousands protest against Australia Day Invasion Day protesters march down a street during Australia Day in Brisbane, Australia. EPA Tens of thousands protest against Australia Day Invasion Day protesters march down a street during Australia Day in Brisbane, Australia. EPA Tens of thousands protest against Australia Day Invasion Day protesters march down a street during Australia Day in Brisbane, Australia. EPA Tens of thousands protest against Australia Day Invasion Day protesters march down a street during Australia Day in Brisbane, Australia. EPA Tens of thousands protest against Australia Day Invasion Day protesters march down a street during Australia Day in Brisbane, Australia. EPA Tens of thousands protest against Australia Day Protesters shouts slogans as they march through the streets of Sydney in an "Invasion Day" rally on Australia Day. AFP/Getty Images This Great Flushing Out, experts say, reveals a paradox. Homophobia, Islamophobia and other markers of intolerance are more embedded in the countrys psyche and politics than many Australians want to admit. But at the same time, analysts see signs of hope as the major political parties cast out candidates for their comments, drawing clearer lines than ever on what constitutes acceptable conduct. Im amazed that these people are being asked to resign, because a lot of this stuff would have been seen as normal a few years ago, said Susan Harris-Rimmer, a law professor at Griffith University in Queensland. I see it as a bit of a sign of success that theyre being forced to leave. The purge has not been confined to conservative parties. Recommended Australia PM Scott Morrison egged by activist on campaign trail The candidate who engaged in rape jokes on Facebook, and has since quit, was a young hopeful in Melbourne from the centre-left Labour Party. But with less than two weeks to go in the campaign, it is clear that most of the troubling rhetoric has come from the political right. The politician who called for genital mutilation, and has also quit, belonged to the conservative Liberal Party of Prime Minister Scott Morrison. Another Liberal candidate resigned after it was revealed that he had encouraged conservative Christians to infiltrate the party to keep gay people from power. He also talked about removing termites from the Liberal Party and bringing in the Godly god. Experts say the 2019 race shows just how much casual mingling, fuelled by the internet, there is between conservative parties in Australia and the global far-right movement that has helped propel candidates to top offices from the United States to Eastern Europe and beyond. How Australia handles this fact could be a turning point for its politics. Social media has shaped the campaign more deeply than ever before, and this is the first Australian election to be held in the wake of a worldwide populist surge, testing whether the country would embrace or reject extremism in politics. In some cases, the anti-Muslim comments from candidates appeared in online groups or threads populated by white supremacists. Australian PM Scott Morrison says 'Hello' in Chinese to voter who replies 'No I'm Korean' In others, discussions about women, homosexuality and transgender Australians have spiralled quickly from chauvinism to support for bullying or outright exclusion from politics. For most of the conservative parties, its become quite clear that the new generation of people moving into the parties are very much more right-wing than the generation thats just disappeared, said Andrew Jakubowicz, a sociology professor at the University of Technology, Sydney, who has studied online racism in Australia. There is almost nobody left who you would consider a small l liberal; theyre all from the centre-right all the way to the right. The dynamics of social media, he added, have accelerated the shift by encouraging extreme speech and a sense of ideological camaraderie that can be manipulated by extremists. One of the things social media does is set up disinhibition, Mr Jakubowicz said. At the same time, he added, there are quite significant groups of people in the white power, alt-right side of things who are trying to invade and normalise their views. These groups have already had some success. Their perspective on immigrants is frequently found in the Murdoch-run news media, and in October, the Australian Senate voted to support a motion declaring that its OK to be white a slogan rooted in American neo-Nazi ideas, spread by racists on websites like 4chan. Only after academics pointed out that context did the government blame an administrative error, holding another vote and rejecting the motion. Levi West, director of terrorism studies at Charles Sturt University in Canberra, said right-wing extremism had been rising in Australia over the last four or five years, tracking with the alt-right movement in the United States. He noted that the right-wing online community was particularly large and savvy. They undertake quite a conscious exercise to clean up their image, Levi said. Support free-thinking journalism and attend Independent events You infiltrate yourself into the political apparatus and shape policy within the apparatus. Its a much more insidious and effective way of achieving tangible political and policy outcomes. A recent example: one of Australias far-right leaders, Neil Erikson, attended a conservative recruitment event for the Liberal National Party (formed by the merger of the Liberal and National Parties in Queensland) at a private residence last year. Still, despite the steady drumbeat of troubling rhetoric, it is far from clear that any of this will matter when the votes are counted. The two major parties are engaged mainly in a war over taxes and the economy. Many politicians are focusing less on the substance of the divisive comments than on the general decline in civility. And some political analysts cite systemic issues, noting that many candidates are selected quickly, with minimal vetting, especially in long-shot seats, and that the concentrated election season can deliver damaging revelations in a burst. But what seems clear, at least for now, is that the lines of demarcation in Australian politics remain closer to the centre than the extremes. Australia has been travelling down the same politically negative road as the US and UK have of late, but this is one of a number of signs that we are significantly less far down that track than they are, said Chris Wallace, a historian at the Australian National University. Depending on the election result, we may be poised to reverse that trend here. Lets hope so. The New York Times Eight European countries have proposed a quarter of the European Unions budget be spent on tackling climate change. Belgium, Denmark, France, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Portugal, Spain and Sweden also said the EU should cut greenhouse gas emissions to a net-zero level by 2050 at the latest. Climate change is a global challenge with profound implications for the future of humanity and our planet, the joint statement said. Its impacts are already felt all across the EU, with for example the heat waves and scorching fires of last summer. It is crucial to redirect the financial flows, both private and public, towards the climate action, the paper added. The EU budget currently under negotiation will be an important tool in this respect: at least 25 per cent of the spendings should go to projects aimed at fighting against climate change. Greta Thunberg inspires climate activists everywhere: In pictures Show all 12 1 /12 Greta Thunberg inspires climate activists everywhere: In pictures Greta Thunberg inspires climate activists everywhere: In pictures In the protest that started a movement, Greta skips school to sit outside of the Swedish parliament in Stockholm in order to raise awareness of climate change on 28 August 2018 Getty Greta Thunberg inspires climate activists everywhere: In pictures Greta speaks at the World Economic Forum in Davos on 25 January AFP/Getty Greta Thunberg inspires climate activists everywhere: In pictures Greta stages a protest at the World Economic Forum in Davos on 25 January Reuters Greta Thunberg inspires climate activists everywhere: In pictures Greta speaks at the House of Commons in London on 23 April PA Greta Thunberg inspires climate activists everywhere: In pictures Greta addresses to the occupation at Marble Arch in London on 21 April AFP/Getty Greta Thunberg inspires climate activists everywhere: In pictures Greta meets the pope on a visit to Rome Reuters Greta Thunberg inspires climate activists everywhere: In pictures Greta speaks at the senate in Rome on 18 April Reuters Greta Thunberg inspires climate activists everywhere: In pictures Greta addresses a debate of the EU Environment, Public Health and Food Safety committee at the European Parliament in Strasbourg on 16 April AFP/Getty Greta Thunberg inspires climate activists everywhere: In pictures Greta receives the Special Climate Protection Award at the German Film and Television awards in Berlin on 30 March AFP/Getty Greta Thunberg inspires climate activists everywhere: In pictures Greta attends a children's climate protest in Berlin on 29 March AFP/Getty Greta Thunberg inspires climate activists everywhere: In pictures Greta addresses a children's climate protest on 1 March in Hamburg Getty Greta Thunberg inspires climate activists everywhere: In pictures Greta attends a meeting for the Civil Society For rEUnaissance at the EU Charlemagne Building in Brussels on 21 February AFP/Getty The paper was snubbed by several EU countries, most notably Germany, Italy and Poland, whose economies are among the biggest in the EU. The EUs annual budget is set by the multiannual financial framework, which currently allows the EU to spend more than 900bn (775bn) between 2014 and 2020. On Thursday, EU leaders will meet in Sibiu in Romania to discuss the future of the union after Brexit and discuss key challenges such as climate change. It comes amid a backdrop of increased awareness around climate change, bolstered by the Extinction Rebellion protests which brought traffic to a standstill in parts of London last November. Greta Thunberg says climate change message is 'clearly not getting through' in speech to MPs Meanwhile, the United Nations secretary-general has warned the world must drastically change the way it fuels factories, vehicles and homes in order to limit future warming to a level scientists call nearly impossible. The alternative would mean a catastrophic situation for the whole world, Antonio Guterres told the Associated Press. He said he is summoning world leaders to the UN in September to tell them they need to do much more in order for us to be able to reverse the present trends and to defeat the climate change. MPs make history by passing Commons motion to declare environment and climate change emergency That means, he said, the world has to change, not in small incremental ways but in big transformative ways, into a green economy with electric vehicles and clean cities. He said he wanted countries to build no new coal power plants after 2020 and ultimately wants to make sure by 2050 the world is no longer putting more greenhouse gases into the atmosphere than nature takes out. Archaeologists attempting to restore Emperor Neros palace in Rome have accidentally discovered a secret underground room decorated with colourful animal frescoes. The walls of the chamber in the bowels of Domus Aurea the Golden House was found adorned with depictions of panthers, centaurs and a sphinx. Experts stumbled upon the space quite by chance while mounting scaffolding late last year, according to Italian news agency ANSA. Alfonsina Russo, the head of the Colosseum archaeological park in which the Golden House resides, said it was an exceptional and thrilling find. He said the restoration team had decided to call the chamber the Sphinx Room after one of the most striking frescoes, although the walls also feature aquatic creatures, exotic birds and the god Pan. Top ten passions of Ancient Rome Show all 10 1 /10 Top ten passions of Ancient Rome Top ten passions of Ancient Rome 302130.bin Getty Images Top ten passions of Ancient Rome 302132.bin Getty Images Top ten passions of Ancient Rome 302133.bin Getty Images Top ten passions of Ancient Rome 302131.bin Getty Images Top ten passions of Ancient Rome 302135.bin Getty Images Top ten passions of Ancient Rome 302136.bin Photograph by Burc Ozkan Top ten passions of Ancient Rome 302137.bin Getty Images Top ten passions of Ancient Rome 302138.bin Getty Images Top ten passions of Ancient Rome 302140.bin Getty Images Top ten passions of Ancient Rome 302142.bin Getty Images Mr Russo described the moment of discovery, after he and his colleagues spotted an opening in the corner of an adjoining chamber. Lit up by the artificial light, there suddenly appeared the entire barrel vault of a completely frescoed adjacent room, he said. Neros immense palace was built almost 2,000 years ago, when the emperor ordered its construction following the fire of 64AD. The devastating blaze destroyed large parts of Rome, including the aristocratic villas on Palatine Hill. One of the centaur frescoes in the newly-discovered chamber (EPA) Following the discovery of the Sphinx Room, Mr Russos archaeologists began basic salvage and restoration work at the start of 2019. Yet much of the room is still buried by tonnes of earth, and the team fears it will remain so because any further work could jeopardise the stability of the whole palace. Alongside the Sphinx and the centaurs, the frescoes also feature garlands of flowers, leaves and fruit in line with architectural motifs of the time. Pope Francis has issued a new law requiring all Catholic priests and nuns to report sexual abuse and cover-ups by their superiors to church authorities. The unprecedented move by the pontiff, which will apply to more than 1 million members of the clergy, promises protection for whistle-blowers and requires all dioceses around the world to have a system in place to handle claims confidentially. Priests and nuns will now be required to inform church authorities whenever they learn or have "well-founded motives to believe" that a cleric or sister has engaged in child sex abuse, sexual misconduct with an adult, or possesses child pornography or that a superior has covered up any of those crimes. The rules also apply to historical cases meaning priests and nuns can retroactively report abuse. It is thought that the Vatican is likely to see an avalanche of abuse and cover-up reports in the coming years, as a result. Pope Francis gives life advice: in pictures Show all 10 1 /10 Pope Francis gives life advice: in pictures Pope Francis gives life advice: in pictures Pope Francis' guide to happiness Pope Francis: 'Live and let live.' GETTY IMAGES Pope Francis gives life advice: in pictures Pope Francis' guide to happiness Pope Francis: 'Proceed calmly" in life' AFP/Getty Images Pope Francis gives life advice: in pictures Pope Francis' guide to happiness Pope Francis: 'Be giving of yourself to others' AFP/Getty Images Pope Francis gives life advice: in pictures Pope Francis' guide to happiness Pope Francis: 'Even though many parents work long hours, they must set aside time to play with their children' AFP/Getty Images Pope Francis gives life advice: in pictures Pope Francis' guide to happiness Pope Francis: 'Sunday is for family' AFP/Getty Images Pope Francis gives life advice: in pictures Pope Francis' guide to happiness Pope Francis: 'Respect and take care of nature' OSSERVATORE ROMANO/AFP/Getty Images Pope Francis gives life advice: in pictures Pope Francis' guide to happiness Pope Francis: 'Stop being negative' AFP/Getty Images Pope Francis gives life advice: in pictures Pope Francis' guide to happiness Pope Francis: Respect others' beliefs' AFP/Getty Images Pope Francis gives life advice: in pictures Pope Francis' guide to happiness Pope Francis: 'Peace sometimes gives the impression of being quiet, but it is never quiet, peace is always proactive' FP/Getty Images Pope Francis gives life advice: in pictures Pope Francis' guide to happiness AFP/Getty Images However, the law stops short of requiring them to report suspected abuse to the police. The Vatican has long argued that doing so could endanger the church in places where Catholics are a persecuted minority. In another legal first for the Vatican, the pope mandated that victims reporting abuse must be listened to and supported, as well as offered spiritual, medical and psychological assistance. It does not however, stipulate that they should receive financial reparations. Pope Francis has promised a more robust response to the problem than his predecessors, calling for an all out battle against a crime that should be erased from the face of the Earth. 'I beg the Lords forgiveness' for child abuse 'betrayal' says Pope Francis at a service in Knock, Ireland In March, he signed a law that made it compulsory in law to report the sexual abuse of children within the Vatican and in its diplomatic missions. He also promised "concrete action" would be taken against child sexual abuse by Catholic priests during an extraordinary summit of bishops in Rome in February. But members of the clergy continue to speak out about the way claims of abuse have been handled. Juan Carlos Cruz, a Chilean abuse survivor, said during the meeting in Rome that when he reported abuse to religious authorities he was treated as a liar and an enemy of the Church. You are the physicians of the soul and yet, with rare exceptions, you have been transformed in some cases into murderers of the soul, into murderers of the faith, he said. What a terrible contradiction. The Vatican was also rocked by the conviction earlier this year of Australian cardinal George Pell, who was found guilty of molesting two choirboys earlier this year. In 2016, reports emerged that Australian police were investigating abuse allegations against Pell, then the third most powerful man in the Vatican, that involved minors. At the time the Pope allowed the cardinal to stay on in his roles as his leading financial adviser and as the pontiffs economy chief. From an overcast Red Square on Thursday, Vladimir Putin evoked images of national unity, history and sacrifice to claim the mantle of defeating Nazi Germany and protecting against modern-day fascism. We understand the enduring value of our peoples military triumph, he said. Our people not only defended and saved [their] Motherland. They also became a rock for mankind, the main liberator of Europe. Mr Putins short speech, made at the beginning of Russias traditional Victory Day parade, made no reference to the role allied powers or other nations of the Soviet Union played in defeating Hitler. He also committed Russia to continue to boost its military and create the most modern defence capacities. But in calling for security cooperation, and concentrating on the role of war veterans and their families, the presidents rhetoric seemed to take a less aggressive route than previous years. Kim-Putin summit: Leaders meet for first talks in Russia Show all 10 1 /10 Kim-Putin summit: Leaders meet for first talks in Russia Kim-Putin summit: Leaders meet for first talks in Russia Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un pose for the media prior to talks in Vladivostok, Russia EPA Kim-Putin summit: Leaders meet for first talks in Russia Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un pose for the media prior to talks in Vladivostok, Russia AP Kim-Putin summit: Leaders meet for first talks in Russia Putin and Kim walk on campus of the Far Eastern Federal University prior to talks AFP/Getty Kim-Putin summit: Leaders meet for first talks in Russia Kim Jong Un presents Putin with a traditional Korean sword as a gift AP Kim-Putin summit: Leaders meet for first talks in Russia Putin and Kim Jong Un share a toast AP Kim-Putin summit: Leaders meet for first talks in Russia Putin and Kim prior to talks in Vladivostok Reuters Kim-Putin summit: Leaders meet for first talks in Russia Journalists watch a live as North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and Russian President Vladimir Putin hold talks AP Kim-Putin summit: Leaders meet for first talks in Russia Putin and Kim prior to talks in Vladivostok AP Kim-Putin summit: Leaders meet for first talks in Russia Who did it better? Getty Kim-Putin summit: Leaders meet for first talks in Russia Putin earlier met with Kim Jong Un's father and former North Korean leader Kim Jong Il in 2002 AP The cloudy weather, meanwhile, made sure that the hardware part of the parade was similarly toned down. Many of Russias military top trumps rumbled over Red Squares cobblestones as before: beginning with vintage T-34 tanks and ending with cutting-edge S-400 anti-aircraft missiles and the behemoth Yars and Iskander launchers designed for intercontinental nuclear payloads. But the second part of the parade, an aerial flyover, was cancelled at the last minute, with authorities citing safety concerns amid the poor weather. In previous years authorities have been known to disperse clouds using silver iodide. With Sundays tragic air accident at Sheremetyevo airport still fresh in the memory, they appeared to be taking no chances. Watching on from the stands, alongside hundreds of posh-suited dignitaries including Steven Seagal, were a smaller number of surviving veterans. Vladimir Putin holds a portrait of his father Vladimir Spiridonovich during Victory Day (AP) According to various reports in Russian media, the VIP guest list resulted in only a fraction of the veterans who wanted to attend being given tickets. But for those who did make the cut, it was an opportunity to dress up, remember fallen comrades and revel in rare attention. Victory Day is everything to me, said Nikolai Morozov, 91, who served as a young boy in the Russian navy from 1942 onwards. Its like a gulp of air. You feel your old self again. Give me a new leg and Ill be down there marching with them. Mr Morozov, who assisted British-led Arctic convoys in delivering crucial cargo and munitions to the Soviet Union, described himself as a committed supporter of the Russian president. But, he said, it was a matter of great regret that Russias resurgence had come at the expense of relations with Europe. Its a mistake to break from Europe, he said. I count many Englishmen as my friends. But making our army strong again is a good thing. We cant survive any other way. With perhaps 20 million war dead, the Soviet Second World War sacrifice occupies a major role in Russian psychology. It is estimated that as many as three-quarters of the adult population tune in to watch the broadcast from Moscow. Recommended China refuses to join nuclear talks with US and Russia The first parade to honour the fallen was held in 1945. But it was only two decades later, under the militaristic leadership of Leonid Brezhnev, that Victory Day became an event similar in style to todays parade. Even then, only four military parades took place: 1945, 1965, 1985 and 1990. In his 19 years in power Vladimir Putin has pinned his presidential colours to the Victory Day mast, overseeing a massive increase in military expenditure and a growing militarisation of the parade. Ten years ago, military hardware was reintroduced for the first time since the end of the Soviet Union. Marching formations have also been extended to include police and security services and latterly, and most controversially, children. This is no accident, said Lev Gudkov, director of the Levada Centre, Russias most respected sociological research group. Militarisation is the Kremlins best shot at creating its much-sought national consensus, he said. There is no other mechanism. They need the idea of an external enemy for Russians to accept all the sacrifices currently being imposed on them. According to Grigory Yudin, professor at Russias Higher School of Economics, the Kremlin has appropriated an obvious resource: the only incontrovertible national celebration outside of new year. It is only natural that it would look to channel the collective emotion to support its militarism, he said. But, he added, the recent militarisation has also provoked "a contradictory moment, and a split, not so much in society but in people themselves. Recommended How EU expansion in the east drove Brexit and made Russia an enemy According to Levadas most recent research, less than 30 per cent of Russians say they are in favour of a militarised parade. On the contrary, more than half say the day should be spent taking better care of veterans. Sociologist Gudkov, whose research famously introduced the idea of Homo Sovieticus, the Soviet creature who developed doublethink as a way to deal with the horrors of Stalinist repression, said a similar mechanism is again at play with Homo Putinus. It is not so much schizophrenia, as different levels of personality, he said. On one level, contemporary Russian man feels pride; on another, he recoils at the falsity of it all. He is happy to embrace the collective rhetoric, but also is sure to keep his distance from government. Gaza is on the verge of a humanitarian catastrophe and 1 million Palestinians could soon go hungry, the United Nations has warned. The budget of the UNs Palestinian refugee agency (UNRWA) is expected to dry up in a month and is in desperate need of additional funds, UN officials told The Independent. Nearly 2,000 Gazans shot by the Israeli army may also lose their limbs due to the funding crisis. In total, UNRWA needs $1.2bn (922m) a year to maintain its schools, medical and food programmes and financial support for 5 million Palestinian refugees in Gaza, the West Bank, Syria, Lebanon and Jordan. Last summer it was forced to beg for additional donations from Europe and the Gulf after the US, its single largest financier, decided to slash all funding, leaving a budget deficit of more than $440m. Without fresh donations, the hardest hit will be in Gaza, a 25-mile enclave that is home to nearly 2 million people and subject to a 12-year-long Israeli and Egyptian imposed siege. Gaza protests: Wounded patients being treated at MSF clinic Show all 9 1 /9 Gaza protests: Wounded patients being treated at MSF clinic Gaza protests: Wounded patients being treated at MSF clinic Bel Trew/The Independent Gaza protests: Wounded patients being treated at MSF clinic Bel Trew/The Independent Gaza protests: Wounded patients being treated at MSF clinic Bel Trew/The Independent Gaza protests: Wounded patients being treated at MSF clinic Bel Trew/The Independent Gaza protests: Wounded patients being treated at MSF clinic Bel Trew/The Independent Gaza protests: Wounded patients being treated at MSF clinic Bel Trew/The Independent Gaza protests: Wounded patients being treated at MSF clinic Bel Trew/The Independent Gaza protests: Wounded patients being treated at MSF clinic Bel Trew/The Independent Gaza protests: Wounded patients being treated at MSF clinic Bel Trew/The Independent The UN estimates that an extra $20m is needed to plug an otherwise imminent health crisis. The worst-case scenario is we would not able to continue to feed half the population of Gaza, Elizabeth Campbell, director of UNRWAs Washington DC office told The Independent. We will have to close schools, people would have no access to our health care systems. We will have to cut jobs. After the Palestinian Authority (PA), UNRWA is the largest employer of people in Gaza. Ms Campbell warned that a destabilised Gaza would also pose a direct threat to Israel. You will have a major humanitarian catastrophe which would easily spread across territories, she said. We are deeply concerned about the security implications. Her warnings were echoed by Jamie McGoldrick, the UN humanitarian coordinator for occupied Palestinian territory, who said on Wednesday that without immediate funding as many as 1,700 people in Gaza could lose their limbs over the next two years. Some 29,000 people in the enclave have been wounded by Israeli fire at protests and clashes near to the border fences over the past year. At least 7,000 have suffered gunshot wounds, mostly to their lower limbs. Hundreds of those are in need of urgent limb-saving treatment provided by the UN. These are people who have been shot during the demonstrations and who are in need of rehabilitation, and very, very serious and complex bone reconstruction surgery over a two-year period before they start to rehabilitate themselves, Mr McGoldrick said. Without such procedures, these people risk being in need of an amputation, he warned. There are additional health fears if the UNs vaccination programme in Gaza is forced to stop. Meanwhile, the UNs World Food Programme has already had to cut aid for 193,000 people this year in the West Bank and Gaza. This will have to be slashed further if the agency faces a cash flow crisis in June, which is likely. The warnings came as Israel and Gaza teeter on the cusp of another war amid the deadliest flare-up of violence since the 2014 conflict. Fighting erupted on Saturday morning when armed factions within the militant-run strip fired nearly 700 rockets at southern Israel, prompting Israeli forces to pound nearly 350 targets in the enclave. The violence had been triggered by the killing of four Palestinians, including two militants, along the border by Israeli fire the day before, after a shooting incident had left two Israeli soldiers wounded. By the end of the weekend, the airstrikes and rockets had killed 25 people, including two women and two children in Gaza. Four civilians were killed in Israel. Egypt and the UN struggled to broker a fragile ceasefire which still holds. But many fear it will only be temporary as the United States is due to deliver its long-awaited and controversial peace plan next month. The deal of the century has already been rejected by the Palestinians on the grounds it is likely to be pro-Israeli. A Palestinian stands amid the rubble of a community centre in Rafah that was destroyed in a recent confrontation between Hamas and Israel (AFP/Getty) (SAID KHATIB/AFP/Getty Images) The Palestinians cut diplomatic ties with Washington, a historic mediator in the region, last year after Donald Trumps decision to recognise the contested city of Jerusalem as Israels capital. Trumps peace plan, if it is deemed to favour one side, may be the touchpaper to ignite fresh fighting in the same month UNRWA will hold a pledging conference to plug its massive funding shortfall. Piling pressure on the volatile situation is the financial crisis of the PA. In February, the US Agency for International Development announced it had ceased all assistance to the West Bank and Gaza. The PA has also refused to take tax remittances from Israel after it deducted 5 per cent of the taxes it collects on behalf of Palestinians because it is given to families of those connected and jailed by Israel for security offences. Unless the issue is resolved, the World Bank predicts, the Palestinians financing gap could exceed $1bn in 2019, putting further strain on an economy, battered by a 50 per cent unemployment rate. You will have a major humanitarian catastrophe which would easy spread across Elizabeth Campbell, UNRWA Washington director Ms Campbell said UNRWA will likely have to cut more jobs from its 18,000 workforce in Gaza and the West Bank, who are mainly teachers. Last year they cut 250 jobs, sparking unrest and protest. It had a destabilising effect. We lost control of our compound in Gaza for three weeks, she added, warning it could happen again. She said now was not the time to walk out on UNRWA, without a viable alternative to their services. Dissolving their institutions will mean Palestinians have poverty, vulnerability, hunger, no nationality and no political horizon, she concluded. What would result is both a catastrophe at a human level but also unintended security and stability issues, she added. With foreign airlines cancelling dozens of flights ahead of a nationwide air-traffic control (ATC) strike in France, the biggest French airline claims the vast majority of its flights will be going ahead. Controllers are stopping work from 7pm today (8 May) to 6am on Friday 10 May. Eurocontrol, which is coordinating the mitigation plan, says that air movements will be restricted, with airlines serving Marseille, Lyon, Toulouse and Paris Orly told to reduce their schedules on Thursday by 30 per cent. Overflights by aircraft transiting French airspace without landing are to be cut by 50 per cent on Thursday. Airlines for Europe (A4E), the Brussels-based pressure group, estimates 550 flights will be cancelled, impacting around 75,000 passengers. Yet the departure information for Paris Orly and Charles de Gaulle shows all Air France flights operating normally on Thursday. The French airline says it will operate all its long-haul flights, but cancel 27 per cent of short-haul departures. Many of these are regional flights on Air France and its subsidiary, Hop!, with links from Lyon to Biarritz, Bordeaux, Brussels, Caen, Lille, Lorient, Marseille, Metz, Nice, Strasbourg and Toulouse grounded on Thursday. Four Air France flights between Paris Orly and Pau have been cancelled on Wednesday evening, because Pau is expected to be closed due to no air-traffic control cover. Recommended How to claim money back if your journey is delayed or cancelled British Airways has cancelled 36 flights linking London with France and other countries due to the restriction on overflights. Three round-trips to Barcelona and Madrid have been grounded, along with services to Basel, Geneva and Zurich. BA has posted a furious online statement, saying: Yet again this will, unfortunately, bring another wave of unnecessary disruption for some customers travelling in Europe. Like all airlines, we have had to cancel a number of flights but will be using larger aircraft where possible, on other services to help affected customers. EasyJet has cancelled a total of 54 flights, and is warning others will be disrupted. The airline said: Sixty-five per cent of easyJet flights operate through French air space and may be delayed. Although this situation is outside of our control we would like to apologise to any affected passengers for the inconvenience caused. Thomas Reynaert, the managing director of A4E, said: Politicians must act immediately to protect the rights of consumers and prevent long-term damage to European economies. A better protection of overflights (while not at the expense of the country where the strike originates) is imperative and long overdue. The controllers strike is part of a day of industrial action by public servants across France against President Macrons plans to reform the public sector. Q In March we booked flights on Ryanair from Salzburg to Stansted for Sunday 11 August. This has now been changed to the day before, which is causing us all kinds of issues. For example, it could involve taking a long-distance taxi to make the Saturday flight which is at 10.45am. I have never come across this problem. Is it common? Am I entitled to any compensation? Fred S I have always been a man of two basic parts: the Jewish part and the leftie, Labour part(y). Recently, its become harder to reconcile the two. On Twitter, which is where I live I can barely remember my actual address now Ive been shocked by some of the antisemitism Ive seen from people on the left whose hearts are otherwise in the right place (the same as mine). Nevertheless, I still believe that most antisemitism on the left is rooted in ignorance, and at the centre of much of that ignorance is the matter of Israel-Palestine. Ive seen how those understandably furious at the injustices and atrocities committed against the Palestinian people blunder into antisemitism when criticising Israel; how they confuse Jews and Israel, such as the person who saw a poster advertising an exhibition commemorating the Holocaust and felt compelled to graffiti Free Palestine on it, as if all Jews, even those who died in the Holocaust, are somehow responsible for Palestinian suffering. Ive also seen how people are scared to condemn Israel for fear of being labelled antisemitic; and how legitimate criticism of Israel (those last four words are almost a catchphrase now) is sometimes falsely labelled antisemitic by those who maintain that all criticism of Israel is antisemitic (it is not). So Ive put together a rough guide on how to criticise Israel without being antisemitic. Its not perfect, but hopefully its a start. Protests against Labour antisemitism Show all 14 1 /14 Protests against Labour antisemitism Protests against Labour antisemitism Protesters clashed during the demonstration Reuters Protests against Labour antisemitism Members of the Jewish community hold a protest against Labour party leader Jeremy Corbyn and antisemitism in the Labour Party AFP/Getty Protests against Labour antisemitism Protesters hold placards and flags during a demonstration, organised by the British Board of Jewish Deputies for those who oppose antisemitism, in Parliament Square Reuters Protests against Labour antisemitism Hundreds of people gathered in Parliament Square to protest against antisemitism in the Labour Party EPA Protests against Labour antisemitism Labour MP Luciana Berger speaks during the protest PA Protests against Labour antisemitism A protester blows through a shofar during the demonstration Getty Protests against Labour antisemitism Members of London's Jewish community protest in support of Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn outside parliament EPA Protests against Labour antisemitism Labour MP John Mann speaks during a protest against antisemitism PA Protests against Labour antisemitism People protest against antisemitism in the Labour Party as Jewish community leaders have launched a scathing attack on Jeremy Corbyn, claiming he has sided with antisemites again and again PA Protests against Labour antisemitism Labour politicians Stella Creasy and Chuka Umunna leave after attending the demonstration Getty Protests against Labour antisemitism A pro-Jeremy Corbyn protester holds a placard during a counter-protest Getty Protests against Labour antisemitism A support of the Labour Party hold up a placard during the demonstration Reuters Protests against Labour antisemitism Jeremy Corbyn supporters during the demo Reuters Protests against Labour antisemitism A protester holds up a sign reading For the many, not the Jew AFP 1) Be precise in your language. Avoid saying Zionist or Zionism when discussing contemporary Israel/Palestine. The terms are too loaded now, too coarse and broad in their application, and too often used by hardcore antisemites to mean simply Jews. Benjamin Netanyahu is a Zionist, but so are Israeli lawyers and peace activists fighting to achieve justice for Palestinians. You cannot lump them all together. Fair enough when talking historically, as long as youre informed and precise, but for the present day, I recommend using specific terms instead, such as the Israeli government or Netanyahu. 2) Do not slide from anger at the actions of the Israeli state into asserting that Israel is controlling everything or paying money to MPs, celebrities or the media to act as they do. To do so simply echoes far-right antisemitism and centuries-old conspiracy theories about Jews, now rebadged to apply to Israel. And yes, I know about the documentary The Lobby, where a Labour MP was filmed discussing money with an Israeli embassy official. But unless you have other examples of this, I suggest you avoid it. Of course, I may have received money from Israel to tell you this. 3) Dont conflate Israel and Jews. It may anger you that the likes of Netanyahu try to do this, so dont make the same mistake yourself. If you see someone talking about Jews, antisemitism or the Holocaust and find yourself leaping straight to Israel-Palestine, think again. 4) Avoid the terms Israel lobby and especially Jewish lobby unless you also say Saudi lobby, Russian lobby, Hindu lobby and so on. Supporters of Israel is safer language. As for Jewish lobby, they say two Jews, three opinions. The idea of us agreeing enough to form a single lobby is as likely as Theresa May fighting the next election as Tory leader. 5) Dont accuse Jews of dual loyalty to Israel and the UK (or whichever country), and certainly not of just being loyal to Israel. Its another age-old antisemitic standard, as featured in Stalinist show trials and the Dreyfus affair. Support free-thinking journalism and attend Independent events 6) Dont compare Israeli actions to the Nazis unless its incredibly specific and historically justified (such as a settler calling for Arabs to be gassed). And even then, use extreme caution. 7) Dont ask every Jew to condemn Israel in every tweet or comment they make. Would you ask every Muslim to condemn Saudi Arabia? I hope, and presume, not. Its obviously not my place to tell Palestinians how they should define their oppression, but for the rest of us, people need to be able to criticise Israel and Jews need to be reassured at a time of rising antisemitism. With careful language, we can do both. David Schneider is an actor, comedian and director Mike Pompeo went to put the thumbscrews on the Iraqi government this week. No more electrical power from Iran, he told them, and make sure those pesky Iranians dont attack our boys in that great American base in Iraq which Trump was boasting about. The New York Times numbingly told us that his trip was shrouded in secrecy if only it had been. Then at least the US secretary of state could have paid a visit to Irans most important supporter in the Iraqi parliament. I met Hadi al-Ameri in Baghdad a few days before Pompeo turned up in town. A tough, curmudgeonly, 64-year-old bearded ex-militia leader, fluent in Persian and in the Shia politics of Iraq, he is a personal friend of Qassem Suleimani commander of the Iranian Revolutionary Guards Quds Force and Americas latest super-terrorist in the Middle East and fought alongside Iran in its eight-year war with Saddam. I can imagine what he might have told Pompeo, because this is what he told me over tea in his Baghdad office. Pity America, because of this crazy Trump! There were 180,000 American troops here with tanks and all their equipment and we did not surrender to their intentions or wishes. Today, we want to build an Iraq depending on itself, strong and sovereign in the region and we will make good relations with all the regional countries for the interests of the people of Iraq not for America or for Saudi Arabia or for Iran. We will not allow America to use Iraq to watch regional countries. And we will not allow Iraq to become a battlefield for other countries to clear their debts. Mark those words: Not ... for Iran. Because Ameri presents himself as an Iraqi nationalist first, a Shia second his political enemies in Iraq will disagree. He prides himself on his leadership of the old Badr Brigade and he played a prominent role in the struggle against Isis in 2014. 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 At one point in the ferocious battles against the Sunni cult, his own Shia Iraqi Popular Mobilisation Force [al-Hashd al-Shaabi] was allied not only with Kurdish militiamen and the Iraqi army but indirectly with the US military, which was bombing Isis. I can see how Pompeo and he might have got on quite well provided, of course, their meeting was shrouded in secrecy. America is not the old America, Ameri says. It is weaker than ever. They couldnt do anything in Venezuela or Cuba, their neighbour, when they were a great power. What can they do here? Let Trump settle his problems with congress first. Are you afraid of Americas power? If they [fight here], they will face the defeat that they faced in Vietnam. They dont have the right to force their will on other nations. Let them try. Let them start in Lebanon, Syria, Palestine. Mohammed bin Salman [of Saudi Arabia] and Netanyahu could not hurt Gaza which is adjacent to them. The Israelis couldnt do it in southern Lebanon or on Golan. Im telling you anybody who tries this in Iraq will lose. I rather think Gaza is very badly hurt. Lebanon, too, from time to time. Then Ameri slips back into his Iraqi mould. He is a former minister of transport and sits in the Baghdad parliament as a member of the United Iraqi Alliance representing Shia religious parties and quickly represents himself as a super-patriot. We are part of the state of Iraq. We are considered as part of the Iraqi government. Anyone who attacks us, the Iraqi people will fight back. We dont need [Irans] help. We have the resources and the ability to do this ourselves. I had a meeting with General [George] Casey. I told him: I am stronger than you. You are depending on the authority of occupation. But you will leave and we will stay. General George William Casey, I should add, was the US commander in Iraq from 2004 till 2007 and largely opposed the American military surge in the country, preferring to reduce his forces and hand security powers to Iraq. He later became US army chief of staff. I have a suspicion that Ameri quite liked him because Casey was known as a realist, and mercifully retired long before the Age of Trump. Ameri, however, prefers to base his military confidence on Iraqs resistance to Isis or Daesh, as he inevitably calls it in Arabic and manages to do so without once mentioning the word Shia. Support free-thinking journalism and attend Independent events In 2014, the whole of our [government] military organisation [trained by the Americans] began to fall down. Mosul, Salahuddin, Kirkuk, Anbar, a big part of Diyala Daesh took them and surrounded Baghdad. At this time, every historian was saying that Iraq is gone. I told them we will win. And I said this in the very first days. The armys [sic] morale was below zero. And the Americans did not take part in the battle until they saw us advancing by us he means the Iraqi Shia militias, although Ameri does not say this. And most of the operations we performed, they did not take part. We liberated Ramadi without their help and most of Salahuddin province without their help. We liberated Fallujah without their help. The Americans [even] opposed us going into Fallujah. They participated in [the battle for] the centre of Ramadi thats all. Mosul, they turned it into rubble. Ameri is famous or infamous, depending on your point of view for allegedly permitting Iranian military flights to pass over Iraq with weapons for the Syrian army when he was Iraqi minister of transport. He has several times denied this. But that wasnt quite what he told me. The American ambassador [in Baghdad] came to see me when I was minister, he recalls. He said: We have to prevent the Iranian flights going to Syria. I said: You dont have the right to give orders. There is a world organisation [the UN] which organises international flights. I dont take orders from you. I am telling you, Daesh are terrorists that you collected around the world and one day you will have to fight them and they will bring evil to Europe. And six months later... Ameri agrees that Iran helped Assad and Russia in Syria. Iran supported Syria at a critical time and they stopped [the Islamist advance] and the Russians got involved. Hezbollah helped. The Syrian army fought, with help from Hezbollah. Our Popular Mobilisation Force played the same role in Iraq as the Hezbollah did in Syria. This is an intriguing parallel, although the Syrian army would surely say that the Russians rather than the Iranians were their most important military allies. But we are moving into familiar political countryside. If America is against us [in the future], the Iraqi army will [now] be united against them. They tried to destroy Iraq and Syria at the same time ... But Iraq is united. Sectarianism is dead. The Americans used to say Ameri is sectarian. But now Ameri is more popular among Sunnis than Shia. As for the Saudis, they have been very stupid and Mohammed bin Salman made a childish move in Yemen. The Americans they told me that the Yemen war would end in two weeks, then 40 days, then four months and now it is five years. The Saudis are losing every day and sacrificing every day. And now its time, I guess, for what I might journalistically call Red Alert. Iran, Ameri says, know their interests well. We can talk about our interests, our duties. If we are attacked, definitely Russia and China will not stay neutral. Tehran is going to be with us. What I know about the Iranian people is that the more pressure they receive, the more united they get. Iran was united when President [Hassan] Rouhani was opening to the west and there were a lot of internal problems. It was the sanctions which made Iran develop ballistic missiles and nuclear centrifuges. The more pressure they are under, the greater their scientific dependence will be. Recommended A petulant Donald Trump requires an adult response from China and Iran Ameri says he believes in the open market, a free economy. He reminds me that much of Irans economy is private sector, including the electricity which is provided to Iraq by Iran. As for Qassem Suleimani, the Iranian general the Americans would most like to obliterate until, I suppose, another Iranian general comes along to annoy them Ameri says he helped us a lot in coordinating the opposition. And during the battle with Daesh, he helped the Iraqis a lot on behalf of the Iranian nation. He was a good adviser. Many of his advisers in all, there were not more than a hundred advisers [in all Iraq] were martyred [sic] on Iraqi land. They were on the front lines with him and some of the best ones died. This is why they had a big effect in the battle. Thus quoth Ameri. And much of what he said, of course, was what the Iranians say. His version of history is also an Iranian version. Ask him if he is Irans voice in Iraq and Ameri bursts into laughter at such a preposterous idea. Even so, I give him two of my business cards. One for him and one for Suleimani. I want an interview with this man, I said. Ameri put up his hands. I dont know when I shall next be seeing him, he says. I bet. Some 70 jobs are at risk at Cadburys Dublin plant (Dominic Lipinski/PA Wire) The owner of Cadburys Irish operation is seeking to cut 70 jobs at its Dublin plant. Representatives from trade unions SIPTU and Unite said they will meet the management of Mondelez Ireland early next week to discuss the threatened job losses at the Coolock confectionery facility in north Dublin. Some 380 people are employed at the plant. SIPTU organiser Colm Casserly said members were deeply unhappy with the announcement by management. We are currently consulting our members prior to a meeting with management, which will take place at the earliest opportunity next week, he said. At this meeting, SIPTU and Unite representatives will make clear our members position and seek to minimise the number of job losses at the plant. He added: Workers at the plant have, over recent years, agreed to the major restructuring of operations and changes in work practices. In light of this, the current approach of management is unacceptable and once again raises fears concerning its long-term commitment to this plant and its workforce. Grilling: Theresa May faced tough questions from MPs in her own party during Prime Ministers Questions yesterday. Photo: PA UK Prime Minister Theresa May has dodged backbench demands for her departure timetable. Tory backbenchers on the 1922 Committee had demanded she set out precise dates for when she would make way for another leader of the Conservative Party. Mrs May had met 1922 Committee chairman Graham Brady privately on Tuesday night, and he was expected to share their discussion with Tory MPs last night. But Brexiteer MPs emerged grim-faced from the meeting, where it emerged the prime minister persuaded colleagues to allow her to kick the can down the road for another week - despite disastrous local election results. Leaving the meeting, Mr Brady suggested the delay was to allow Mrs May one last push to get her Brexit deal through Parliament before the European elections, which are expected to be another brutal defeat for Conservative candidates. He said: "The executive is very keen to meet the prime minister and will have a full opportunity to discuss and to reach whatever conclusions it wishes to reach next week. "It's my understanding it's the government's intention to bring a second reading of the bill forward in the near future, certainly the intention is before the European election takes place. "Personally, I hope the bill will be brought forward in a form which contains elements of the political declaration brought forward that would obviate the need ever for the Irish backstop to apply." He would not confirm if he was seeking a departure date from Mrs May at the meeting next Wednesday. But the Tory MP indicated the Withdrawal Agreement Bill could be brought back next week when he said he expected it "hopefully in the much nearer future" than the elections on May 23. Leaving the 1922 meeting, Brexiteer MP Nadine Dorries expressed impatience. "She's not given any decision, there's no timetable and they need to get on with it," she said. "We need to make sure we get that final decision soon because everybody needs it." Conservative MP Alberto Costa said the 1922 Committee chairman expected Mrs May to leave once she got her Brexit deal through Parliament. "The prime minister has been very clear she will step down as soon as the Withdrawal Agreement is passed," he said. "My understanding is that in respect of the request Graham Brady made two weeks ago... he expects to be given an assurance that her Withdrawal Agreement will once again go before Parliament." Tory MP Simon Hart said backbenchers were resigned to the idea a leadership change would not solve the problems with the current Brexit deal. "This would be all very well as a temporary pain relief measure," he said. "But if it doesn't actually change the prospects of delivering an orderly Brexit, then we could be about to go through quite an agonising process to replace the prime minister with a keen and enthusiastic new person who is then going to come up against exactly the same problem as the current one. "It would be much better if the current prime minister finishes this horrible stage of the process and then they can do the easy bit." Meanwhile, Mrs May's de facto deputy said there had been difficult moments in talks with the opposition Labour Party about how to break the Brexit impasse in the country's parliament. "The mood in the meetings has been constructive, it has been difficult at times, I won't deny that because there are differences between the two political parties," minister David Lidington said. Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has heaped pressure on British Prime Minister Theresa May to strike a deal with Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn by insisting he does not want the Brexit deadline extended again. Mr Varadkar said the decision to extend the exit date to October is already affecting investment and consumer confidence in Ireland. Speaking outside the Binnenhof in the Hague, Netherlands, Mr Varadkar said: "We really can't have a situation where we roll out extensions forever. "It's already the case that the uncertainty around Brexit has caused business and others to delay investment decisions. I know it has damaged consumer confidence in Ireland, although our economy is performing very well," he said. The Taoiseach was speaking after a meeting with Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte where both leaders discussed their shared visions for the future of the EU. Central to their discussion was the ongoing uncertainty around Brexit as Ms May and Mr Corbyn continue to negotiate a solution to end the deadlock. Mr Varadkar said the "ball was very much in England's court" and insisted it was now up to the leaders of the UK's two main parties to reach an agreement which avoids a no-deal Brexit. "I very much hope the two main parties there are able to come to an agreement that allows for an orderly exit from the European Union," he said. THE Taoiseach hasn't given up hope that British politicians can reach a Brexit deal before the Westminster summer recess. Leo Varadkar rejected suggestions that it's inconceivable that British Prime Minister Theresa May's Conservative Party could come to an agreement with Labour on how to overcome the Brexit impasse. He said the two parties are seeking a way to allow the UK leave the EU in an orderly fashion. "I understand that if those talks aren't successful then a series of options will be put back to parliament." He added: "Parliament will be keen and political parties will be keen to have this resolved before their summer recess. "There's absolutely no guarantee that's going to happen but I haven't given up hope of that at this stage anyway." Speaking after an informal European Council meeting in Sibiu, Romania, Mr Varadkar defended the government's decision not to join eight other EU member states in setting tougher targets for cutting carbon emissions. He said that EU leaders broadly agreed that climate action has to be one of the core priorities for the EU in the future. "Its an absolute imperative that we leave our planet to the next generation in a condition that we inherited it and climate change is a threat to life on this planet." However, he said that Ireland has a difficulty in signing up to more onerous targets to cut carbon emissions. He said that although Irish C02 emissions are falling it's going to be very difficult to meet existing targets. Mr Varadkar insisted Ireland would deliver on these but said: "We couldnt in good faith sign up to more onerous targets until we actually know that we can achieve them." EU leaders discussed the future of Europe and also key roles that are to be filled in the coming months including new presidents for the European Commission and European Central Bank. There is division on how to select Commission President Jean Claude-Juncker's successor. Mr Varadkar said he agrees with the Spitzenkandidat process where a candidate selected by the largest party in the European Parliament would get the role and insisted it hadn't been abandoned. He said he's "100pc behind Manfred Weber who is the candidate of the EPP group". Fine Gael MEPs are part of the European People's Party in the European Parliament. As much as 538,900 sq ft of offices are currently being built in the Sandyford Business District in south Dublin as the office vacancy rate in the area has fallen to only 3.1pc. Not alone is there demand among office occupiers for space in the area but there is also demand among investors. This is reflected in two deals that have recently been agreed on the sale of two fully-let office blocks. Corrig Court and Silverstone House are being sold by Irish firm McGarrell Reilly Group, which is reported to have bought them for about 15 million in 2015 and subsequently invested in their upgrade. Joint agents Savills and QRE have been asking more than 23.8 million for the two four-storey-over-basement buildings. Corrig Court is slightly larger, with a floor area of 3,558 sq m (38,293sq ft) and 78 car-parking spaces. Silverstone House extends to 2,820sq m (30,357sq ft) and has 66 car spaces. Corrig Court is fully occupied and produces a rent of 907,660 from a tenant line-up that includes Cubic Telecom, BSI Cybersecurity and Information Resilience and Micro Focus and these rents equate to an average rent of 21.50 per sq ft. Silverstone House is fully let to top-rate tenants, including the Health Service Executive, Sherry FitzGerald and O'Dwyer Property Management, at an overall rent roll of 812,723. One of the tenants in Silverstone, data analytics firm Truata, is paying 24.50 per sq ft. It is considered to have further development potential, subject to planning permission, having previously had approval for an additional penthouse floor. The agents also guided in excess of 12.3 million for Corrig Court beside Beacon South Quarter and 11.5 million for Silverstone House for possible separate sales, equating to net initial yields of 6.8pc and 6.52 pc respectively. Since those rents were agreed there have been higher rents achieved in the district. According to the latest office report from another agent, Knight Frank, the area's low vacancy has seen rents double from the mid-teens to now stand at 30 per sq ft. Meanwhile, yet another agent, CBRE, says rents in the suburbs have experienced an increase over recent months with prime rents in the south suburbs now in the order of 317.42 per sq m, or about 29.50 per sq ft. They compare with around 700 per sq m in prime city centre properties, 226 per sq m in the north suburbs and about 193.68 in the west suburbs. According to Knight Frank, those 30 per sq ft rents were seen in three recent Sandyford deals, most notably when Facebook agreed to take 174,000 sq ft at Nova Atria South, formerly part of the Atrium complex. Rents at that level were also agreed by PLR WorldWide for 17,562 sq ft at Red Oak South in South County Business Park and by Salesforce for 25,540 sq ft at Building G in Central Park. John Ring of Knight Frank says there are three office locations in the business district, each with distinct personalities. "Central Park has benefited from being under single ownership control which has facilitated integrated place making. South County has a campus feel while Sandyford Industrial Estate retains a mix of uses, with office use particularly concentrated on its northern edge in proximity to the two Luas stops," Mr Ring said. "Sandyford's appeal is due to being situated in a relatively affluent area of south Dublin while simultaneously being suitable for high-density office development and enjoying good transport links to the city centre," he added. Developments currently under way include Green Reit's Building I at Central Park, which will extend to 103,400 sq ft; Cyril McGuire's One South County, which extends to 141,000 sq ft; and Aldgate's Termini, which extends to 221,523 sq ft. British developer U+I is also revamping a building which it has re-branded The Hive and which will have 72,945 sq ft. Demand for offices in the district is also reflected in plans to develop a further two million sq ft of offices. These include Cyril McGuire's plans for two new buildings at South County, Green Reit's plans for Building N at Central Park; Aldgate's plans for Leopardstown West and ESB's plans for its site. Meanwhile, investment fund Ardstone has changed its mind about selling its Eden Plaza site, which has permission for 450,000 sq ft and which had a 20m price tag. Development is also continuing on the residential side. According to Sandyford Business Improvement District (SBID), the Government-authorised organisation for the area, as many as 5,000 people already live there. Ireland's largest private landlord Ires Reit, which already has five properties in the district, is about to submit a new planning application for about 428 apartments at the Rockbrook development, following a previous rejection from An Bord Pleanala at the Sandyford site. It is also hoping that the planning watchdog will respond positively by June to its application for 84 units at block B4 at Beacon South Quarter. A further 459 units may be developed in the neighbouring Sandyford Central site by real estate investor Avestus Capital Partners and asset manager Ares Management. They bought the 3.81 acre site for about 38 million in a deal brokered by Cushman & Wakefield. Meanwhile, Swedish student accommodation specialist Prime Living is also awaiting an An Bord Pleanala decision on its application for an 817-bed-space project at the Avid Technology site on Carmanhall Road. Ironically, despite the 26,000 people working in the district and the 5,000 residents, the SBID area does not have a pub. Conor Battigan, chief executive of SBID says that this reflects the change in people's lifestyles, as it has a number of fitness centres. "However, it does have a number of licensed restaurants, including Press Up's Union Cafes, a bar in The Beacon Hotel and Naomh Olaf's GAA club." Yields for Irish shopping centres and secondary retail warehouses have softened further over recent months, mirroring a trend that is being experienced in the UK and across Europe at present. These are among the findings in the latest CBRE bi-monthly report on Ireland's commercial property market. Comparing them with 12 months ago, retail prime shopping centre yields have weakened 50 basis points (bps)from 4.75pc to 5.25pc and retail high-street yields at 3.25pc have extended from 3.15pc since April 2018. Super prime shopping centre yields are unchanged at 4.25pc but are trending weaker. Both retail warehouse and student accommodation have seen their yields stabilise at 5pc and 5.25pc respectively. Build-to-rent residential yields have strengthened by 40 bps to 3.85pc compared to 12 months ago and have overtaken offices which, while trending stronger, are unchanged at 4pc. Also trending stronger are industrials, by 40bps to 5.1pc. Marie Hunt, director of CBRE Ireland, says that while prime office, industrial and multi-family yields in the Irish market remain stable, they have potential to harden a little over the coming months as new transactional evidence materialises. Meanwhile, the latest Savills investment report says that despite investors' ambivalence towards retail property at a global level, stores in Ireland's prime locations are trading well and continue to attract capital. "The retail warehousing sector is currently outperforming in both the occupational and investment markets and this should be sustained as the flow of new housing development strengthens," says John McCartney, director, Savills Ireland. Architect Maoiliosa Reynolds has done the citizens (if not the State) a great service with his searing analyses of government housing policy and exposures of the lack of new home construction by local authorities. On social media this week, I came across a very interesting debate as to whether or not the level of supply of new homes affects the price of new homes. That debate had been sparked by an article originally written in 'The Village' by Reynolds, which posited that the assumption that increasing supply means that prices will reduce may be incorrect - which would undermine the theory behind State housing policy. As a 'free market man' with an interest in economics, I'd find it hard to accept that increasing the supply of anything, whilst demand remains relatively constant, could do anything other than reduce price. However, Reynolds presented compelling evidence, based on CSO data, from 1975 to 2015. This shows that the numbers of new home completions, and average new home prices, track each other fairly closely, over those 40 years. This in turn suggests that the relationship of supply to cost is inelastic, that increasing supply does not reduce cost (value), and in fact, that the opposite may be happening, which is a dynamic normally associated with luxury goods. There are strong views on the subject, but I suspect that there are other factors at play which are disrupting one of the fundamentals of economics, ie that price is a function of the levels of supply and demand. The biggest of these, I believe, is the availability of both credit and capital. For example, a clear case of where new home prices closely followed increasing supply numbers upwards, was during the Celtic Tiger era, from say 2005. The supply of new homes increased to 90,000 units per annum while new home prices continued to climb too - until both crashed together. The biggest reason for this was the huge increase in the availability of credit from the banks. Population growth, employment growth and economic prosperity were all driving demand for new homes. But not only was there an organic need for shelter - new homes also became increasingly popular as a means of holding wealth as an investment. And the more prices went up, the more credit became available, and so on. However, during the same period, rental costs, which are a purer measure of demand for housing, did not increase at anything like the same rate, because there was a better supply of units to rent. Another factor is the availability of 'finance' as distinct from 'credit', and we are seeing that dynamic now, with the weight of money coming into Irish property from the overseas funds, for example. The funds are seeing strong rents and short supply in a good economy. This means that yields go down, and prices increase, which affects an owner-occupier market that is competing for units. Other factors preventing the normal operation of the new-homes market are constraints in our land management structures, in that we do not get land zoned and into the market in time to react to demand. Thus, we don't get enough new homes built when they are needed and thus prices are artificially high. This phenomenon is seen strongly in cities with anti-development land policies, such as San Francisco, which combined with geographic boundaries there, contrive to keep prices artificially high and necessitate long-term commuting to the city centre. At the root of the whole problem here is the State's failure to build enough social housing. To solve our housing and rental crisis, the Government has to boost housing supply, from the bottom of the market up, and not just encourage supply at the top and hope for a trickle-down effect. Prices for the few new-homes schemes available outside the private rented sector stopped increasing last year, and that's partly due to increased supply. A RESIDENTIAL development site on the Coleville Road in Clonmel, Co Tipperary, has come to the market with a guide price in excess of 1.4 million. Extending to around 9.68 acres, it is located on the Tipperary side of the Coleville Road, just to the east of Hotel Minella. Under the current Clonmel and Environs Development Plan, about 8.05 acres of the site is zoned New Residential and the remaining 1.63 acres is zoned Amenity. Finin ODriscoll of agents Knight Frank says the property benefits from a positive planning history, as it was granted planning in 2007 for the construction of 133 houses and apartments. This grant has since expired. Clonmel Town is an established provincial centre with a population of over 17,000 and a strong employment base with large multinationals such as Abbott and Boston Scientific operating in the town and MSD Pharmaceuticals within 10km at Ballydine. The site is situated in an attractive setting overlooking the River Suir and is within 1.5km of the town centre. It has road frontage on two sides: 90 metres of frontage on to the Coleville Road and 150 metres of frontage on to the access road to Dudleys Mills Business Park. Furthermore, the area is well serviced by local schools with the Loreto Convent Secondary School positioned within 1km of the site. It is also readily accessible, being situated close to national routes such as the N24, which links Limerick, Waterford and Rosslare Port, while junction 10 on the M8 Dublin-Cork motorway is about 15km away. Additionally, the town benefits from rail links between Waterford and Limerick. Every farmer should have a bunch of nettles on their farm to increase the lands biodiversity value, well-known dairy farmer and environment activist Donal Sheehan has said. A UN report published this week has said that industrial farming is a major driver in one million animals and plant species are at imminent risk of humankind. However Donal Sheehan, who runs a 70 cow dairy farm in Castlelyons, Co Cork set up the five-year BRIDE Project (Biodiversity Regeneration In a Dairying Environment) in 2018 which pays the farmers involved to make environment improvements on their farm, with the aim of setting aside at least 10pc of their farm for conservation. He said the project pays farmers for conserving nettles as they are big drivers of biodiversity and in particular increasing butterfly life. Nettle patches are something that farmers throw their eyes up to heaven about when we mention them. Its something the Department of Agriculture or Teagasc could never take on because their credibility is at stake, but our credibility was never an issue, he told the recent IFA Smart Farming Conference. Nettles are a food plant for five different species of butterflies, if youve no nettles you wont have five species of butterflies. This is why we need to reconnect with nature. Were paying farmers to have a couple of bunches of nettles on their farm, two metres by two metres in size. Farmers need to get their heads around it, its as simple as that. Expand Close Stinging nettles (Lusyaya/Getty Images) / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Stinging nettles (Lusyaya/Getty Images) Mr Sheehan pointed out that in the past there was a view that environment schemes were for less intensive farmers, but he said that view needs to change and that every farmer now needs to "embrace the green and not go against" it if they want to market their product as sustainable. The intensive farming sector had the attitude of letting the lads work away with the birdies and that they would drive on but that has come against us because the public are looking for environmental credentials and we are struggling to catch up, he added. We need to start valuing our habitats and if we go down the road of pinching the environment were not in the position to say to people you should buy my product. No matter what kind of farm you have we all have an obligation to the environment whether its water quality or climate change or biodiversity. "The next generation that are coming know all about biodiversity and climate change, theyve all had their green flags at school and theyre going to be looking for all of these things when they buy their food. He said the notion of having neat and tidy hedgerows needs to go, as a fuller and more vibrant hedge allows for a bigger drawn down of carbon. The BRIDE project also promotes the retention of wetlands which are useful run off buffers and habitats and asks tillage farmers to refrain from spraying their crop with glyphosate before or after harvest and to shut the gate on the field during the winter to allow for wildlife activity to thrive. Irelands awkward geography means that compared to bigger countries there may well be extra costs per head to create and operate a modern society. Stock image It would be hard to find a more succinct definition of politics than that supplied by an anonymous government source on the great broadband conundrum. "It doesn't matter what it costs - the children need to do their homework." Oh, but it does. I'm sure he, or she, knows that, but the dilemma is real enough. Ministers must grapple with squaring reality and politics, while opposition politicians, including those who have grappled with reality in government, need never care what anything costs. Unless, that is something has already cost too much and government can be attacked for, ahem, putting politics first. The broadband question is doubly sensitive because the cost overruns at the children's hospital are running simultaneously as a hot political issue. That started out as 700m and is now approaching 2bn. Unfortunately, one would wonder about that figure too. Experience almost universally suggests that once a project gets seriously out of hand during construction, there is no limit to what it may eventually cost. If the history of such projects is any guide, the hospital could end up costing 3bn. It is a victim of two kinds of politics; the jockeying for constituency advantage where not even children's health is a deterrent for vote-grubbing, and the necessity to start with a low figure to get as much as possible into the capital programme. The old solution was simply to add on the additional costs as they emerged on an annual basis. That, after all, is how the national accounts are presented. There would be a brief flurry when it was realised that part of the trumpeted increase in that year's capital budget was just extras costs, but with so much else going on at budget time, it would only be brief. With any luck, revenues would exceed forecasts and the budget targets would not be affected. That, after all, is what has been happening for most of the past 20 years - and still is. Last week the Central Bank tiptoed onto the Fiscal Advisory Council's lawn with its cautious analysis as to what should be done about the surplus tax revenues since 2015 - estimated at 7.5bn. In truth, they have already been spent because the budget was supposed to balance around now even if there had been no windfall, and balance is all that has been achieved. One difference from the past is that, while the capital budget is always there to be pared if things go wrong, now there is no room for a significant overrun. This produced the unprecedented spectacle of other spending being cut to cover the overruns on the hospital. No supplementary budgets, except for the health service itself. It was a timely reminder that, despite the recent rapid growth, the debt burden is still too large to risk any significant increase in borrowing. All of which makes the broadband project even more troublesome. Minister for Finance Paschal Donohoe says they will not make the same mistakes as with the hospital. No-one could call the 3bn price tag unreasonably low, but it might not be high enough. Supplying broadband for just about everyone presents an entirely different set of problems than building a hospital; even one on a difficult site, incorporating existing hospitals and trying to be the most advanced of its kind. In this case there is not even an agreement on what kind of broadband it should be. This column is not equipped to deal with that kind of question but it has acquired a certain familiarity with broadband, living in a district which has just been rewired for very fast stuff. It was an extraordinary business. Every pole now has more wires than it carries for the electricity supply. Most of them also have some kind of elaborate, expensive-looking gizmos attached to them. If that is what is envisaged, one can see that 3bn might not go that far. The economics are simpler, and not very encouraging. The bold programme of rural electrification is often cited in the broadband argument. But it is easy to forget that urban dwellers subsidise rural ones in their electricity bills, even though almost everyone is on the grid and the initial costs have long been paid. Rural broadband will no more pay for itself than rural electricity and a demand, in the early years at least, may well be less than that for light and heat. With broadband, it will not be so easy to hide a subsidy in the bills of other users and no one knows how many will sign up and much a public subsidy would cost. Conveniently, the reservations of the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform have surfaced. They are right to be concerned. After the hospital farrago, there is a renewed commitment to detailed design, careful appraisal, risk assessment, efficient procurement and so on. But all of that, even if achieved, is not the end of the story. The much vaunted cost-benefit analysis process is necessary - and appears to have been shamefully ignored too often in the past - but it may not be sufficient. These are particularly difficult matters for small countries, which tend to have their populations concentrated around the major city and sparse elsewhere. Ireland has more awkward geography than most. Compared with bigger countries there may well be extra costs to be borne per head to create and operate an acceptable modern society. Insofar as possible, they need to be quantified and the hard choices which involve identified. They cannot just be airily waved aside. 'Airy' seems the right word for the Taoiseach's weekend comments that 3bn can surely be found, which may illustrate a more insidious risk. The country borrowed 100bn to rescue the banks and the public sector, and we seem to have survived. The serpent can easily whisper in the ministerial ear. "What's another 3bn?" We should know the answer, both from the Bible and experience. Yield to that temptation and one ends up fiscally naked. Despite all the good news, we are already at the fig leaf stage when it comes to debt. Yet Mr Varadkar and that anonymous politician, who must be close to him, have a point - one borne out by rural electrification. The children do need to do their homework and not be disadvantaged as compared with other countries' children in the way they do it. These wider benefits require political judgement which even the most sophisticated bean-counting cannot supply. It is justifiable to start with a picture of the future and the infrastructure it will require rather than costs and revenues. One might well criticise the details of the national development plans, but not the concept. What is missing is detail on what they are meant to achieve on a national level and how that justifies the costs. Too often, the local trumps the national. It is hard to believe, for instance, that the concentration on one-off housing in the last 20 years is anything but a cost to the country, diverting resources from more productive uses and doing nothing to foster a modern sophisticated society. Not only that, it is now adding to the cost of broadband coverage, with little extra benefit. The kind of politics which produced that has given us "one-off" investment programmes which are often of dubious benefit to the community as a whole. The road system, comes to mind. They are often the wrong kinds of road in the wrong places. The cheapest are favoured over the most needed and local interests over national requirements. It turns out that broadband does not really lend itself to that kind of approach. Whatever the system, it has to be rolled out nationally. The more that local interests are appeased, the more it will cost and the greater the inevitable cross-subsidies. No wonder it has taken so long to reach decisions. Clearly, a modern country needs a modern broadband system. Better to start with what a modern country needs. That immediately brings in the national spatial strategy. No broadband plan will make sense unless it fits into such a strategy, and we know what has happened to that. Choices had to be made as to who gets what, and where, but they were ducked. Three billion can be found, but it can also be squandered. It is not the amount that matters so much as how it is spent. A shortage of workers is proving to be a bigger issue than Brexit for many companies. Speaking at an Oireachtas Finance Committee, Ulster Bank chief executive Jane Howard said, while Brexit is top of mind for a number of customers, for many of our business customers, they tell us that labour shortagesis a bigger issue. The shortage is across both skilled and unskilled workers, Ms Howard added. The bank is ready to support customers impacted by Brexit where additional resources and guarantees are required in respect of customs and tariffs. On the subject of non-performing loans, Ms Howard said the bank must do more to reduce its bad loans, as it comes under pressure from regulators. Capital requirements mean the bank will need to increase the level of funds it holds over the coming years. Those requirements mean that over the coming years we will need to increase the capital we hold up to a point where we will have to hold enough capital for the full amount of the loan, Ms Howard said. That capital is then tied up and we cannot use it to support loan growth which would contribute to the Irish economy. The bank is working with customers who are in arrears so that as many customers as possible can remain in their home and paying off their mortgage, Ms Howard, who is appearing in her first Oireachtas Committee, said. We have found that when customers work with us, a solution can be found for four out of five, meaning they can remain in their home. The bank has also made significant progress in addressing the tracker mortgage scandal. We have made redress and compensation payments to all Tracker Mortgage Examination customers for whom we have contact details. The bank does not anticipate any new or additional impacted groupings of tracker customers to emerge. The owners of Cadbury are seeking to cut 70 jobs at its Coolock production plant. There are currently 380 staff employed by Mondelez Ireland on the Dublin site, and the job cuts come amid investment in technology at the plant. Trade union representatives from SIPTU and Unite will meet management next week to discuss the job losses. It is understood that Mondelez will seek voluntary redundancies over two years. Local TD Tommy Broughan confirmed he had been contacted by Eoin Kellett, Managing Director of Mondelez Ireland, with the "disappointing news". Mr Broughan said: "While the promised investment of 15m by Mondelez into manufacturing and packing technology at the Coolock plant is welcome, its very disappointing that this positive news is accompanied by an announcement of job cuts. "Cadbury at Oscar Traynor Road has been a very important employer for the greater Coolock area for nearly 70 years. "Indeed, the plant which originated and developed many important chocolate products has played an iconic role in Coolocks history with members of thousands of our families employed there." SIPTU Organiser, Colm Casserly, said: "Our members are deeply unhappy with the announcement by management that it is seeking 70 staff redundancies. "We are currently consulting our members prior to a meeting with management, which will take place at the earliest opportunity next week. At this meeting, SIPTU and Unite representatives will make clear our members position and seek to minimise the number of job losses at the plant." He added: "Workers at the plant have, over recent years, agreed to the major restructuring of operations and changes in work practices. In light of this the current approach of management is unacceptable and once again raises fears concerning its long-term commitment to this plant and its workforce." Mondelez told RTE that "like all manufacturers, it keeps its operations under review to ensure its business is operating as efficiently and effectively as possible". "Were now conducting a consultation process and will do all we can to support them moving forward." TRADE union Forsa has voted to ballot its members for industrial action if a 12-year-old pay promise is not honoured. The union overwhelmingly ratified a motion from the Wexford local government branch demanding that a 5pc benchmarking award from 2007 for senior executive officers now be honoured. A motion demanding action on the pay award was tabled at Forsa's local government and services annual conference in Kilkenny. While sanctioned in 2007, the 5pc pay award was suspended by the following year because of Ireland's economic and financial crisis. However, Forsa maintained that under the terms of the Public Sector Stability Agreement (PSSA), a commitment was given to review all such awards - and pay them if the conditions involved are still valid. The PSSA terms run until 2020. Around 200 senior executive officers working in local councils are now affected by the benchmarking award. Forsa national secretary Peter Nolan said the union executive fully back the Wexford motion. "However, we want to consult with the people directly involved first," he said. The majority of senior executive officers are in the third tier of local government management and largely work alongside specialists such as engineers. Forsa has now warned that unless the 5pc benchmarking pay award is sanctioned by June 1 next, a ballot for industrial action will be organised once the members involved have been properly consulted. US value fund manager Brandes Investment Partners has again cut its stake in Bulmers-maker C&C, leaving it with just under an 8pc holding. Stock photo US value fund manager Brandes Investment Partners has again cut its stake in Bulmers-maker C&C, leaving it with just under an 8pc holding. At one stage Brandes owned more than 12pc of the Irish drinks maker - a peak reached in October 2017. But it's been steadily reducing its stake over the past year. In April last year, it cut it to just under 11pc from 11.8pc, and reduced it to slightly under 10pc in July. By December last year, it owned just over 9pc. Its current stake in the company, whose brands also include Tennent's lager, is worth just under 86m. Shares in C&C hit 3.57 last September, and fell to as low as 2.61 in December before recovering to their current level. San Diego-headquartered Brandes Investment is controlled by US billionaire Charles Brandes. Brandes Investment Partners has its European HQ in Dublin and describes itself as a value investor. Drinks group C&C expects group earnings for the year to the end of February to grow by 20pc. C&C said in March that it expected its earnings before interest and tax for the 12 months to the end of March to be near the upper end of market estimates. It releases full-year results on May 22. Spiralling costs: Dave Robinson will close his Rathbeggan Family Adventure Park, near Dunshaughlin, Co Meath, in August. Photo: Frank McGrath The insurance crisis has claimed another victim with a family and tourist attraction set to close. Spiralling insurance costs are behind the decision of Rathbeggan Family Adventure Park, in Meath, to close. It offers children's activities such as zip lines, pedal boating, bouncy castles and lake fishing. It has been operating on a 22-acre site for 21 years and also attracts corporate visitors. Owner Dave Robinson said it welcomes between 20,000 and 30,000 visitors a year. Mr Robinson said he has struggled to get insurance cover, and when he did he was forced to pay 40,000. "That is more than I pay myself," he said. He has had to get separate cover for public liability and employers' liability cover from the policy for his buildings. "My broker told me, 'I am getting nowhere, you will have to go shopping yourself'," he said. He said that insurers in this country will no longer cover a businesses like his, despite him having no claims in five years. "Irish companies won't quote because they know they are on to a loser because of the compo claims across the board," he said. He said he has run the business for two decades but has decided to close in August as the insurance costs have made it unsustainable. Every summer the facility employs around 25 people, mainly students, who get training in customer service. He said Taoiseach Leo Varadkar is due to visit the adventure park this week, when Mr Robinson will raise the insurance crisis issue. "We need the top to pay attention to this. Leo needs to make one phone call to sort this out," he said. Mr Robinson is a member of the Alliance for Insurance Reform. The Alliance wants a Garda insurance fraud unit set up, as promised by the Government. It also wants the Judicial Council Bill, as it is proposed this committee of judges will agree to recalibrate the high levels of compensation awards in this country. Meanwhile, the regulator of Civil Defence is hopeful that a resolution can be found to an issue that is threatening the viability of 200 festivals around the country. First-aiders like Civil Defence are regulated by the statutory agency. There are fears Civil Defence may not have a new licence for carrying out emergency procedures in place from the independent statutory agency. Up to now, festivals have relied on Civil Defence members to provide first-aid in the event of an accident. But health regulators are currently reviewing its certification of Civil Defence members as first-aiders. Regulators may not renew approval of certain Civil Defence emergency medical operations after July 31 this year. The Pre-Hospital Emergency Care Council, which regulates first-responders, said it had given Civil Defence until July to come back to it on plans for improved regulatory compliance. It was awaiting a response from Civil Defence, but was hopeful a resolution could be found to the issue. Executive director of the Association of Irish Festivals and Events (Aoife) Colm Croffy said as many as 200 festivals may be forced to cancel this summer and autumn if Civil Defence first-aid operations are not licensed. "Festivals are already stretched to breaking point by rocketing insurance costs and this is the thing that will push them over the edge," he warned. "Most festival insurers will price on the basis that emergency first aiders like Civil Defence are in attendance," Mr Croffy said. He said that if Civil Defence personnel are not approved, the organisers will have to pay for professional paramedical teams to ensure that they can get insurance. "Many cannot afford to do so, and if they can't get insurance, the event won't go ahead under current regulations," he added. Mr Croffy said the dispute will have an immediate impact on the autumn and winter festival schedule across the country, with many festivals expected to be forced to cancel their planned events. Didier De Witte, a Belgian millionaire who was this year sentenced to prison for a 1m-plus tax dodge, is behind plans for a 319-bed student accommodation scheme in Dublin. The former chief financial officer of the Cork-based Ditchley Group, Greg McGinn, is acting as an agent for the businessman's company in Ireland. Speaking to the Irish Independent, Mr McGinn conceded that De Witte is a "bit of a maverick in terms of tax structuring", but said the Belgian had always been "honourable" in his dealings in Ireland. De Witte is using an Irish firm called Molaga Capital to advance the student accommodation scheme, which has recently been approved for the planning process as a strategic housing development. Mr McGinn added that De Witte is not in prison despite being sentenced in February in Belgium for tax offences. De Witte (72) was also convicted in 2011 of collecting tens of thousands of euro in job-seeking benefits from Belgian authorities between 2005 and 2009. In lieu of an 18-month prison sentence, he paid a fine in that case. De Witte was living in the Dominican Republic at the time. Company filings in Ireland give his address as recently as 2018 as a hotel in the Dominican Republic. His shares in Molaga Capital are listed as being held by a nominee who is employed by the Cork-based Ditchley Group. Ditchley or the Inua Partnership of which it's a part, are not connected in any way to De Witte's activities in Ireland, said Mr McGinn, and never have been. Mr McGinn said he did not have any concerns working on behalf of De Witte despite his record. "I've been working with Didier for 10 or 15 years in terms of Ireland," he said. "He's always been very honourable and direct." De Witte was sentenced in February to a year in prison and fined 240,000 for reportedly channelling more than 1m from what was ostensibly a non-profit firm controlled by him, to his own bank account without declaring it for income tax. The planned student accommodation project that will be built on the South Circular Road in Dublin - the site of the former Rialto Cinema - is the largest scheme to date in Ireland for De Witte. He's previously been involved in housing developments at Raheen in Co Limerick, as well as in Co Cork. His interests in Belgium include hotels and nursing homes. Minister for Finance Public Expenditure & Reform Paschal Donohoe TD speaking to media on the National Broadband plan at the Department of Public Expenditure & Reform, Dublin. Photo: Gareth Chaney, Collins No contract has yet been signed to deliver rural broadband to half a million homes and businesses and there is a serious risk that it may not happen at all, Fianna Fail has warned. The main opposition party today re-doubled its criticisms of the plan that is set to cost taxpayers 3bn. Fianna Fail communications spokesman, Timmy Dooley, said this weeks announcements were simply geared to boost Fine Gael in the local and European elections, which are due to take place in 15 days time. The Clare TD said the Government claims were bizarre since no contract was signed with the contractors, Granahan McCourt. He said the Government were saying the contract would be signed in six months time but there was considerable doubt about that. In fact there are real concerns that this contract will never be signed, Mr Dooley said. Read More The Fianna Fail spokesman told the Dail that far from being a breakthrough the announcement this week amounted to an admission that the deadline of 2020 for delivery was extended out to 2027. He wondered if this really meant 2030 or even 2040. Mr Dooley also said the contractors would make back their investment inside eight years and own the network after 25 years, holding a monopoly of supply to people in the country. Replying for the Government, Tanaiste Simon Coveney said if the Government had not made its announcement this week the Opposition would have attacked them and accused them of delay and indecision. Expand Close A broadband router and cable (Rui Vieira/AP) / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp A broadband router and cable (Rui Vieira/AP) Mr Coveney said the plan was the biggest ever Government investment in rural Ireland. He said the Cabinet had publicised everything right now and would continue this policy of openness. But the Tanaiste said he could not at this stage of negotiations publicise how much the Granahan McCourt investment would be. However, that would emerge in due course. The company behind the National Broadband Plan will have to spend 2.5bn to cover the cost of rolling the rural network out to 540,000 premises. The body's chief executive, Peter Hendrick, told the Irish Independent's 'Big Tech Show' podcast the network will cost almost 5bn to build and maintain over the next 25 years. National Broadband Ireland (NBI), the entity's new name, can receive a maximum of 3bn in State subsidies including VAT and "contingencies". This leaves the company needing to make at least 100m per year through rural subscriptions. However, Mr Hendrick said he is "comfortable" that take-up of the service will reach 80pc and expects to see several existing broadband retailers such as Eir, Sky and Vodafone using the network to market high-speed packages to rural residents. "We estimate [the State subsidy] will be around 2.1bn," Mr Hendrick said. "But the life cost of the network is closer to 5bn. So we have to make sure we deliver the network. "Up front, we're building the network and taking a risk. It's only upon delivery of key milestones such as connecting premises and contributing capital costs that we receive a subsidy." Mr Hendrick declined to give more detail about how much capital NBI is putting into the initial capital phase of the rollout. Most of the project's contractual information is being withheld by the Government until the 1,500-page contract is signed and published, leading to some criticism over a lack of transparency. However, it is understood the company is being substantially financed by Walter Scott, the business partner of the American billionaire Warren Buffett. Mr Scott is a long-time business associate of David McCourt, founder of Granahan McCourt, which is the principal company in the bidding consortium. Other commercial backers are understood to be Mr McCourt himself and Oak Hill, a New York venture capital firm which sold its 47pc share in the Irish telecoms firm Enet a year ago. Asked why the last premises will not be connected for six or seven years, Mr Hendrick said that was partially down to choosing fibre as the technology solution for every last rural home. "We're looking at 106,000km of road and 146,000km of actual fibre cable," he said. "It's a significant project and it just takes time." A wireless alternative, he said, may not be quicker to roll out and would need to be partially replaced every few years according to significant upgrades in the technologies. Mr Hendrick also suggested a wireless network may require more than 20,000 masts and base stations around rural areas. The first connections to Irish homes are expected to go live "in the first half of next year", he said, and will cost roughly the same as similar urban services. Separately, Eir's chief executive has said the State's largest telecoms company will see close to 1bn in fees and revenue from rental of its telephone poles and infrastructure to the National Broadband Project. But Carolan Lennon said knowledge of this income stream did not influence the company's decision to withdraw from the bidding process. "That's a strictly regulated price," she said. "We're allowed to make just over 8pc on that. I was actually very disappointed when we pulled out [of the National Broadband Plan tender]. I always felt that we could win. But when we started adding things up, there was just no business case for us." To hear the full interview, download the Big Tech Show podcast on iTunes, Soundcloud or independent.ie/podcasts. The chief executive of the Irish unicorn software firm Intercom has apologised for poor judgement after the US tech journal The Information published an investigation highlighting reported HR complaints against the tech founder. Intercom, which is currently Irelands most successful tech company with large offices in Dublin and San Francisco, has raised 200m in funding and was last valued at over 1bn. However, the companys board says that it is launching a new review into the matters raised against the CEO, Eoghan McCabe. "Recently, questions regarding the handling of some matters that were previously investigated by HR and reviewed by the board have been raised," an Intercom board spokesperson told The Information. "We have engaged an expert to conduct a new review and investigation into these matters as well as our HR policies and will follow any recommendations that come from it." Mr McCabe says that the issues being reviewed occurred some years ago. Expand Close Eoghan McCabe, chief executive of Intercom / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Eoghan McCabe, chief executive of Intercom "In the early years of the company I demonstrated some poor judgment," he told 'The Information'. "I apologised at the time and have matured as a person and a CEO since then. "Im proud of the respectful culture weve built, and have long believed that people do their best work when they feel truly happy and safe. I fully support the independent review into these matters and our HR practices." Independent.ie has contacted Intercom spokespersons for further comment on the issue. A PLANNED 7bn merger of Vodafone's struggling Australian business with TPG Telecom was blocked by the regulator in a bungled announcement published early that sent stocks tumbling. The proposal would "substantially lessen competition" for mobile-phone services in an already concentrated market, the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission said in a statement Wednesday. TPG is Australia's best - and probably the last - chance to gain a new cellular network operator, ACCC Chairman Rod Sims said in the statement. A protracted legal battle between the companies and the regulator now looms. TPG and Vodafone Hutchison Australia, Vodafone's unprofitable mobile-phone venture with CK Hutchison Holdings, said they're still committed to a union and will challenge the ACCC's decision in the Federal Court. Hanging in the balance is a proposal to create a new Australian tech giant selling mobile phone and broadband services that's worth an estimated A$10.9bn (7bn). If the deal is blocked, former Australian phone monopoly Telstra and Optus - owned by Singapore Telecommunications - would only gain more power, TPG said. The ACCC's decision must be challenged, it said. The watchdog's decision also scuppers Vodafone's plan to breathe new life into a mobile-phone partnership that has struggled to make inroads in Australia. In almost a decade of operations, Vodafone Hutchison won only 19pc of the local mobile-phone market. Nicknamed Vodafail by some, the venture struggled to overcome a reputation for patchy coverage and dropped calls. There had been speculation that Vodafone would look to exit Australia completely. The UK phone giant's planned union with TPG was an attempt to salvage something from an entity that some analysts said was essentially worthless. "We believe the merger with TPG will bring very real benefits to consumers," Vodafone Hutchison chief executive officer Inaki Berroeta said in a statement. He said the businesses have little overlap and can deliver more for Australian consumers together than they can alone. The ACCC, which typically publishes its rulings when shares aren't trading, fumbled the release of its decision, sending TPG stock into meltdown. Scheduled for release Thursday, the decision was briefly visible on the regulator's website on Wednesday afternoon - before it was removed. The ACCC later confirmed its opposition to the deal and blamed a technical error for the inadvertent publication. Bloomberg Telecoms giant BT has posted a drop in annual earnings and warned that sales and profits are set to fall over the year ahead amid a "very challenging and competitive UK market". The group reported a 2pc fall in underlying earnings to 7.4bn (8.6bn) for the year to March 31. It cautioned that underlying earnings are expected to fall to between 7.2bn (8.3bn) and 7.3bn (8.5bn) over 2019/20, with a drop of around 2pc in adjusted revenues. The UK and Ireland business-to-business market "remains challenging" the group said. In Ireland revenue increased 1pc to 338.5m, while profit was up 5pc year-on-year. Last month it was reported that BT is planning to exit the Irish market though a 400m (462m) sale of its BT Ireland unit, which provides services to corporate clients. The British multinational is understood to be inviting bids for BT Ireland as part of a wider exit from its Global Services international arm. However, BT Ireland managing director Shay Walsh at the time cast doubt on the story via social media. He told people not to "believe everything you read in the paper, especially when there is no source quoted". A spokeswoman for BT Ireland last month said it would not comment "on rumour or speculation". On a statutory basis, pre-tax profits at the group lifted 2pcpc to 2.7bn in the year to March 31 on revenues 1pc lower at 23.4bn. BT's recently appointed chief executive, Philip Jansen, said the shareholder dividend payout would remain unchanged for 2018/19 and also for 2019/20 "given our outlook for earnings and cash flow". But this will come as a relief to its investors after speculation that the group was considering cutting the payout. Mr Jansen, who took on the top job in February, said: "While we are really well positioned in a very challenging and competitive UK market, we have a lot of work to do to ensure we remain successful and deliver long-term, sustainable value to our shareholders. "We need to invest to improve our customer propositions and competitiveness. "We need to invest to stay ahead in our fixed, mobile and core networks, and we need to invest to overhaul our business to ensure that we are using the latest systems and technology to improve our efficiency and become more agile." On announcing full-year figures, BT also increased its target for deploying ultrafast fibre connectivity to four million premises by 2020/21 from its previous goal of three million premises. By the mid-2020s, BT said it aims to pass 15 million premises, up from its previous target of 10 million. It added that restructuring efforts were on track, having achieved annual cost savings of 875m. BT swung the axe on 13,000 jobs last year under its revamp plans. (Additional reporting PA) German shares led gains in Europe yesterday as robust earnings from Siemens and Wirecard overshadowed mounting worries over a US-China trade deal. Stock photo German shares led gains in Europe yesterday as robust earnings from Siemens and Wirecard overshadowed mounting worries over a US-China trade deal. Chinese vice premier Liu He will travel to Washington for two days of trade talks, in a bid to avoid a sharp increase in tariffs on Chinese goods that US president Donald Trump had threatened to impose over the weekend. "The fact that Chinese vice premier Liu He is still expected to arrive in Washington to keep the talks going is probably the reason why this has not turned into an absolute meltdown," said Elwin de Groot, head of macro strategy at Rabobank. The biggest boost to the pan-region Stoxx 600 yesterday was Siemens, which climbed as much as 5pc in early trading after reporting better-than-expected profit from its industrial business in the second quarter, as the German industrial group began separating and spinning off its struggling power and gas business. By late afternoon, Siemens's shares were 3.7pc higher. German reinsurer Munich Re slid after reporting a 23pc decline in net profit in the first quarter as a result of higher claims, and weighed down insurers broadly. In Ireland, the Iseq Overall Index was down 0.6pc at 6,349 soon before the close. Decliners included Ryanair, which had shed 2.3pc to 11.01 before the end of the session. Davy Stockbrokers said that outbound travel demand from the UK probably declined for this summer due to Brexit turmoil. Bank of Ireland was down 2.8pc at 5.46, while shares in Bulmers-maker C&C jumped 2.5pc to 3.47. US-based Brandes Investment Partners has continued to cut its stake in the Irish company. Other movers included miner Kenmare Resources, whose shares were 2.7pc higher late in the session, at 2.26. The UK's Ftse-100 was barely ahead as the end of trading approached, while France's CAC-40 was up almost 0.3pc. German industrial output unexpectedly increased in March. However, the economy ministry warned the outlook remained subdued as Europe's biggest economy suffered from trade frictions and Brexit nerves. US President Donald Trump said on Wednesday he would be happy to keep tariffs on Chinese imports in place, adding that China is mistaken if it hopes to negotiate trade later with a Democratic presidential administration. "The reason for the China pullback & attempted renegotiation of the Trade Deal is the sincere HOPE that they will be able to 'negotiate' with Joe Biden or one of the very weak Democrats," Trump tweeted. "Guess what, that's not going to happen! China has just informed us that they (Vice-Premier) are now coming to the US to make a deal. We'll see, but I am very happy with over $100 Billion a year in Tariffs filling US coffers," he added. The United States announced on Wednesday it would hike tariffs on $200bn worth of Chinese imports from 10pc to 25pc effective this Friday, according to a notice posted on the Federal Register. Sources with knowledge of the talks told Reuters that China has sought to alter previously-agreed provisions specifying changes to Chinese laws affecting nearly every chapter of a nearly 150-page proposed trade deal between Washington and Beijing. The changes sought by China would create major hurdles in reaching a deal in two days of talks with Chinese Vice Premier Liu He this week before the tariff increase goes into effect. The moves came after a diplomatic cable from Beijing arrived in Washington late on Friday night, with systematic edits to a nearly 150-page draft trade agreement. The edits are blamed for this week's blow up between the world's two largest economies after months of trade talks, according to three US government sources and private sector sources briefed on the talks. The document was riddled with reversals by China that undermined core US demands, the sources told Reuters. In each of the seven chapters of the draft trade deal, China had deleted its commitments to change laws to resolve core complaints that caused the United States to launch a trade war: Theft of US intellectual property and trade secrets; forced technology transfers; competition policy; access to financial services; and currency manipulation. President Trump responded in a tweet on Sunday vowing to raise tariffs on Chinese goods from 10pc to 25pc this Friday. The US said on Wednesday the higher tariffs will go into effect on Friday. The stripping of binding legal language from the draft struck directly at the highest priority of US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer - who views changes to Chinese laws as essential to verifying compliance after years of what US officials have called empty reform promises. Mr Lighthizer has pushed hard for an enforcement regime more like those used for punitive economic sanctions - such as those imposed on North Korea or Iran - than a typical trade deal. "This undermines the core architecture of the deal," said a Washington-based source with knowledge of the talks. Spokespeople for the White House, the US Trade Representative and the US Treasury Department did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang told a briefing on Wednesday that working out disagreements over trade was a "process of negotiation". Investors and analyst have questioned whether the Trump tweets were aimed at winning concessions from China. Sources told Reuters the extent of the setbacks in the revised text were serious and that Trump's response was not merely a negotiating strategy. Actress Amy Poehler has challenged Hollywood to end its alleged ageism problem. Poehler is directing and starring in Netflix comedy Wine Country, which sees a group of long-time friends go on a wine tasting trip in California to celebrate a 50th birthday. The film, also starring Maya Rudolph, 46, Rachel Dratch, 53 and Tina Fey, 48, has been praised for celebrating middle-aged women, a group Hollywood is often accused of neglecting. Friendship is a trip. Amy Poehlers directorial debut #WineCountry comes to @Netflix May 10. pic.twitter.com/fAJyzZVfo0 Wine Country (@winecountryfilm) April 11, 2019 Parks And Recreation star Poehler, 48, said ageism is systemic in the industry but said one change could help tackle the problem. She told the Press Association: Heres a simple fix. If youre a director, a male director or a male actor and you have a spouse in your movie, make them the same age as you. I think thats an easy fix. Thats my challenge to them. If youre 50, have your wife be 50, see how that feels. Poehler, who first found fame as a cast member on US comedy show Saturday Night Live where she met her Wine Country co-stars, said while Hollywood is changing, women are still being discarded after a certain age. Expand Close Amy Poehler has challenged Hollywood to take steps to end its ageism problem (Ian West/PA) / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Amy Poehler has challenged Hollywood to take steps to end its ageism problem (Ian West/PA) We live in a patriarchal society where age is shamed and especially in America, were obsessed with youth and the beginnings of things because were a very juvenile country, she said. Video of the Day Poehler added: And men, theres a lot of wisdom thats applied to men and their ageing and its not applied to women. Theres a lot of discarding of women after a certain age because of societal pressures. All that stuff is very systemic but slowly changing as more women represent different ages and more women of colour represent their story. So its slowly changing but theres a way to go. Get ready to raise a glass. #WineCountryMovie comes out in one week! pic.twitter.com/8BSghy8X7m Wine Country (@winecountryfilm) May 3, 2019 Wine Country, Poehlers directorial debut, also stars Ana Gasteyer, Paula Pell and Emily Spivey. The cast members are all friends in real life and the film was inspired by a real trip to Napa Valley they took together. Poehler said she enjoyed being on a female-led set with her friends. She said: Its a really refreshing vibe for me because I think there are, whether it be behind the camera or in front of the camera, whether it be actors or production, there are so many stories to tell about women. And women that are working on stories about women feel very connected to it. So it feels like theres a connected energy and enthusiasm and thats great to be around. Wine Country will be streaming on Netflix from May 10. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 9) Manila Water Co. booked a lower net income in the first quarter after supply interruptions forced the utility firm to waive service fees from customers. The Ayala-owned water concessionaire said it made 1.233 billion in January to March, 27 percent lower than the 1.689 billion it made during the same period last year. "The slowdown was mainly due to the the impact of the water supply shortage in its Manila concession business," the listed firm said in a disclosure Thursday. The east zone concessionaire was forced to do unannounced water interruptions starting March 7, citing decreasing water levels at the La Mesa reservoir in Quezon City due to El Nino. Around 1.2 million customers experienced no supply to low water pressure for at least a week due to the supply shortage. Manila Water then announced a one-time bill waiver program for customers most affected by the rotating supply interruptions. The adjustment was reflected in their April bills, covering the minimum monthly charge of 76 collected from customers regardless of their consumption. Manila Water said this was to "alleviate" the inconvenience brought about by spotty water supply. Despite this, total revenues rose by eight percent to 5.079 billion, supported by higher tariffs from Manila-based clients and stronger growth in other concession areas. Outside Metro Manila, company operations through Manila Water Philippine Ventures saw profits rise by seven percent to 174 million during the quarter, with supply deals to corporate clients through Estate Water raking in 93 million. Meanwhile, international investments through Manila Water Asia Pacific saw earnings double to 135 million, drawn from operations in Thailand and Indonesia. Lower profits were derived from two subsidiaries in Vietnam. Operating costs surged by 39 percent to 2.461 billion, reflecting the 534-million penalty imposed by the Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System (MWSS). The company has said that it will comply with the regulator's sanction. MWSS also ordered the utility provider to set aside 600 million to develop a new water source, with the penalty totaling 1.134 billion. Without the supply woes, core income of Manila Water should have grown by 22 percent to 2.1 billion. For now, Manila Water said they have restored water availability to 98 percent for an eight-hour period, and 72 percent for 24-hour supply. 10 July 2015; Cathal Pendred and John Howard face off ahead of their UFC 189 Welterweight fight. MGM Grand Garden Arena, Las Vegas, USA. Picture credit: Esther Lin / SPORTSFILE Cathal Pendred pictured on the set of My Name Is Lenny with Mike Bisping. Photo: Instagram Cathal Pendred is certainly fighting fit when it comes to his new acting career. The former UFC fighter announced his retirement from the sport back in November 2015 after saying it was "time for me to move on". Expand Close Irish UFC fighter Cathal Pendred / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Irish UFC fighter Cathal Pendred But the 28-year-old certainly hasn't looked back since, having bagged new representation with a top acting agent in the States. American and Irish viewers saw him in the hit US drama Ray Donovan, which stars Liev Shreiber, after bagging a part as an Irish boxer called Joxy Maguire. In a turn-up for the books, it sees Cathal getting knocked to the ground after being punched in the face in one particularly memorable scene. The akward moment when you're in the airport and you look like somone from Americas most wanted. A photo posted by Cathal Pendred (@cathal_pendred) on Sep 9, 2016 at 1:26pm PDT He certainly went down well with fans of the Showtime series in America - attracting much praise for the part on social media. Now, he has nabbed a role in another movie which started shooting recently - My Name Is Lenny, which tells the story of Britain's notorious bare-knuckle fighter, Lenny McClean. Pendred posted a pic from the movie set over the weekend, posing in a fighter's stance alongside UFC champ Michael Bisping who also appears in the flick. Cathal will also be featured in the forthcoming Baywatch movie, which is due out in 2017. He has also entered the health food business and has bought into the successful Chopped franchise. Cathal and girlfriend Michele McGrath have been dating for more than three years and share a home together in Drumcondra on Dublin's northside. Video of the Day Although they appear to have spent their summer going to a dizzying array of weddings, the pair say they are in no rush down the aisle themselves and are more than happy to enjoy a quiet life in the suburbs. Miriam O'Callaghan will be keeping radio colleague Sean O'Rourke's seat warm from the middle of July. The Prime Time presenter will fill in on Today With Sean O'Rourke, which runs from 10am to noon daily on RTE Radio 1, from July 15 for six weeks. However, Miriam has also revealed that, for the second year in a row, she won't be hosting a TV chat show on Saturday nights on RTE One. An RTE spokesperson said The Tommy Tiernan Show will run until the end of June, and details of the summer schedule after that have yet to be released. Expand Close Jennifer Zamparelli / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Jennifer Zamparelli Miriam told the Herald it was her decision not to commit to a chat show format as she wanted to be able to plan holidays and spend time with her children. The 59-year-old is mum to eight children and is planning to spend a fortnight in Portugal during the summer. "I'm choosing this year to do six weeks of radio rather than the weekend work," she said. "I just love that. Working on daily radio is quite exciting and it means you don't have to be around every Saturday night in the summer, which I find quite difficult with my kids because we can't go anywhere. So they're happy we can go on holidays." Asked if she was disappointed not to be returning to her Saturday night slot, she said: "It was my choice, and never say never, but this year I am doing radio." Meanwhile, Jennifer Zamparelli will begin broadcasting on 2FM in a mid-morning slot from June 10. Video of the Day It will be a talk show format, a departure for the station which hasn't prog- rammed anything similar since the late Gerry Ryan's show. Miriam backed Jennifer to do "a brilliant job", but wouldn't be drawn on whether she thought bringing a chat show to the music-based station was a good idea. "I don't get into policy, but I love Jennifer. She's an absolutely brilliant broadcaster. Whatever she does, it will be a roaring success," she said. "She's bright, she's sassy, she's lovely, she's kind. She will just do brilliantly." Miriam also praised the prominence of female presenters on the station now that Jenny Greene, Doireann Garrihy, Tracy Clifford and Jennifer are hosting shows during the day. "Yeah, women rock. Women rule the world right now. Happy days, long may it continue," she said. Miriam was on hand yesterday to launch the Bloomsday Bike Rally. The annual event, sponsored by Brennans Bread, celebrates James Joyce's masterpiece Ulysses and Dublin "in the rare old times". On Friday, June 7, more than 150 cyclists - many in boaters and Edwardian gear - will set off from St Stephen's Green to tour the city, stopping along the way for drinks and perhaps a plate or two of nutty gizzards, including a halt for a rousing rendition of Molly Malone on the Mansion House steps. The event is in aid of the Irish Youth Foundation. "It's a really great cause and I've been connected with them for a long time," said Miriam. "They do great work for under-privileged children." File photo dated 10/4/94 of Freddie Starr who has died aged 76, with his horse, Miinnehoma, which was the winner of that year's Grand National. File photo dated 10/04/94 of Freddie Starr who has died at the of 76, according to reports. Starr, a household name who rose to fame in the 1970s, was found dead at his home in Spain. File photo dated 17/03/83 of Freddie Starr who has died at the of 76. Starr, a household name who rose to fame in the 1970s, was found dead at his home in Spain. File photo dated 01/01/73 of Freddie Starr who has died at the of 76. Starr, a household name who rose to fame in the 1970s, was found dead at his home in Spain. File photo dated 15/06/15 of Freddie Starr who has died at the of 76 Freddie Starr has died at the age of 76. A carer dialled 999 after discovering the former comedian on the floor of his 180,000 townhouse in Mijas near Fuengirola, on the Costa Del Sol. Starr, who moved to Spain in July 2015 after a libel case loss against a woman who accused him of groping her when she was 15, was found around 3pm this afternoon. Police sources said there was nothing to suggest the death of the fallen comic, who suffered asthma and had a quadruple bypass following a heart attack in 2010, was suspicious. But an autopsy is expected to take place tomorrow at the Institute of Forensic Medicine in Malaga to rule out the possibility it was the result of a crime. Civil Guard officers were mobilised along with paramedics after the initial call from Freddies carer, although the first ambulance is believed to have taken some time to reach the scene. A source at the equivalent of Spains 999 service said: "We responded to a call this afternoon from the carer of a 76-year-old man in the Mijas area of the Costa del Sol. "The woman said she had found the man and she was looking after him because he had been ill and said she thought he could be dead." Police could not be reached for official comment. More to follow Expand Close Freddie Starr / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Freddie Starr A limousin cow in Co Meath has defied odds of up to a million to one by giving birth unassisted to triplets. It is the first time in almost 30 years of suckler farming that Michael and Stephanie Bray have witnessed the delivery of triplets on their land at Fordstown. The cow gave birth on her own in a field to one black bull and heifer and one red heifer. At first Stephanie thought the red calf was a stray. "Michael and my son Conor, who also farms, told me about the triplets and I went down to have a look," she said. "I have to say I initially thought another cow had given birth to a calf elsewhere in the field and that calf had made its way over to the other two." The Brays, who also run a local pub in the village, said they only realised how rare triplets were when they told customers. "At first customers thought we were talking about sheep but when they realised it was calves, no one around here ever remembered hearing about a cow having triplets." When the new mum wasn't producing enough milk to feed all three calves, the Brays stepped in, using empty - and washed out - Bulmers bottles to feed them extra milk. A BOY accused of murdering Ana Kriegel emphasised to a counsellor "around 10 times" that he was not the last person to see her on the day she disappeared, a trial heard. The counsellor gave evidence that Boy B told her he felt he had been "dragged into this mess" by Boy A, and he had only been trying to do "a good turn for a mate" by calling to Ana's home. The counsellor gave evidence to the Central Criminal Court that Boy B also told her he felt interrogated by gardai. She said Boy B had spoken to gardai three times, had been brought away in a garda van and had felt it was an "ordeal". Boy B also offered a theory to the counsellor about what had happened to Ana, saying that perhaps the men who had attacked Boy A had "got, taken or kidnapped" her. The two youths, aged 13 at the time, have pleaded not guilty before the Central Criminal Court to the murder of Ana Kriegel (14) at Glenwood House, Laraghcon, Clonee Road in Lucan on May 14 last year. One of the boys, Boy A, has also denied a charge of aggravated sexual assault. The counsellor said she knew Boy B was one of the last people to see Ana so she had arranged to speak to him on May 16. Boy B told her he was "stressed" and "feeling the pressure" of being interviewed by gardai. She said he called it an "interrogation". The counsellor said Boy B was "articulate, calm and clear". Expand Close Bereaved parents: Geraldine and Patric Kriegel leave court yesterday. Photo: Collins / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Bereaved parents: Geraldine and Patric Kriegel leave court yesterday. Photo: Collins During their conversation, she said he mentioned "around 10 times" that he was not the last person to see Ana. He told her he'd walked with Ana to the park, but he had then left. Boy B also offered a theory what had happened to Ana, saying that perhaps the men who attacked Boy A had got, kidnapped or taken Ana. The counsellor said she was "impressed" by Boy B, who seemed a "very bright boy". She said his speech flowed, he looked her straight in the eye and he seemed very calm. Earlier, a garda technical expert said he believed that Ana had suffered a "violent assault". Detective Garda Seamus O'Donnell, from the Garda Technical Bureau, told the Central Criminal Court that this belief was based on the amount of blood visible at the scene where Ana's body was found. He agreed with prosecutor Brendan Grehan SC that other signs of violence were the broken false nails, the ripped clothing and the bloody half concrete block, all of which were found at the scene. Gda O'Donnell gave evidence that he took wet and dry swabs of blood staining in a number of areas in the room where Ana was found. He said he believed Ana was assaulted near the area of heaviest blood staining and moved or was moved to a location at the far wall of the room. The trial also heard from retired State Pathologist Professor Marie Cassidy who said Ana Kriegel died as a result of blunt force trauma to the head and neck. Prof Cassidy said Ana was found dead in a derelict building a few days after she was reported missing. She was naked and there was evidence she had been violently assaulted in the building where she was found. The post-mortem showed Ana had suffered severe and extensive injuries, which were mostly confined to the head and neck area. Prof Cassidy also said that there was evidence of penetration or attempted penetration of the vagina. She identified more than 50 areas of injury on her head and body. Cause of death was blunt force trauma to the head and neck, Prof Cassidy said. In cross examination, Prof Cassidy agreed that Ana had suffered a "very horrific death". Mr Justice Paul McDermott told the jury that an application had been made to excuse the accused from attending during Prof Cassidy's testimony, and he had agreed to that application. Prof Cassidy gave evidence that she was told Ana had been last seen at 5.30pm on May 14, 2018. A search had taken place in a local park between May 14 and May 17, and her body had been located at 1pm that day. Prof Cassidy said that clothing located beside the body matched the description of what Ana was last seen wearing. Prof Cassidy attended the derelict building where Ana's body was found. She was escorted by members from the Garda Technical Bureau through the back of the building. There was graffiti on the walls, rubble on the ground, the windows were boarded up and in some of the rooms the roof had collapsed. Prof Cassidy said she was shown clothing and footwear on the ground, and noted blood stains and blood splatter on the walls. The teenager was lying on her back and her arm was grasping a ligature on her neck. Prof Cassidy said her impression was that the teenager had received her injuries closer to the door in the room where she had been found, and her body then moved further into the room. The body was then taken from the scene to allow Prof Cassidy conduct a post-mortem, which was completed on the evening of May 17. Prof Cassidy said Ana suffered a fractured right eye socket, upper jaw and cheek bone. Her lips were swollen, and there was a large area of injury on the right side of her face. There was also a large area of bruising on the left side of her face. Prof Cassidy said there were four lacerations to the right side at the back of the scalp and there was dark red bruising and a broad area of injury on her neck. Prof Cassidy also noted grazes or abrasions on Ana's left shoulder and collarbone as well as purple bruising on her right shoulder and linear scratches to the side of her trunk. Prof Cassidy said samples were taken from the main organs in Ana's body and later examined and she was "extremely healthy". There was no alcohol or drugs in her system. Prof Cassidy said there were four separate impacts to Ana's head. She said they could have been caused by a heavy object with a small striking surface, or the corners of a larger object. However, she could not say what had caused these impacts. She said there was extensive haemorrhaging to the soft tissue at the neck and she would have asphyxiated due to compression of the neck structure The jury heard that there were numerous scratches to Ana's trunk and limbs. Some may have been caused in a struggle, Prof Cassidy said, and some could have been caused by moving her body across the floor of the room. In cross examination, Prof Cassidy agreed with Patrick Gageby SC, for Boy A, that there was no pathological evidence of ligature strangulation. Prof Cassidy also agreed with lawyers for Boy B that Ana had suffered a "very horrific death". The trial continues before Mr Justice McDermott and a jury of eight men and four women. A solicitor who was working in Gerald Kean's office when it was visited by officers of the Criminal Assets Bureau in March 2016 has told a High Court jury she was "horrified" by a newspaper article concerning that visit. Sharyn Coghlan, a conveyancing solicitor in Mr Kean's practice for 14 years, said, when she read the Irish Daily Star article, it looked like Mr Kean was "caught up in criminal gangs". She disagreed with Rossa Fanning SC, for the newspaper, that, when the article was read as a whole, a reasonable reader would not get that impression. She was giving evidence in the continuing action by Mr Kean alleging defamation in the March 11th 2016 article headlined Kean caught up in CAB probe. Mr Kean claims it wrongly meant he was linked to gangland crime and has damaged him personally and in his practice as a solicitor. Independent Star Ltd denies defamation and has pleaded fair and reasonable publication in the public interest on a matter of public benefit. The jury has heard two CAB officers went to Mr Kean's office at Upper Pembroke Street in Dublin on March 10th 2016 with a District Court search warrant seeking documents concerning the purchase of a house at Kildare Road, Crumlin, by a Dublin man, Sean McGovern, as they suspected that house was bought with the proceeds of crime. Mr McGovern was wounded in the Regency Hotel shooting in February 2016 when gangster David Byrne was shot dead. On Thursday, Ms Coghlan said she had handled the Crumlin house purchase and, when the CAB officers came to the Kean offices on March 10th, she procured the relevant documents and those were provided to the officers. The officers had told Mr Kean Mr McGovern did not have a criminal record and she had not discussed the CAB visit with anyone else, she said. That night, Mr Kean phoned her "in a frenzy" having seen the Star article headlined on a TV programme and she was so worried about him she considered driving to his home in Wicklow. When she bought the newspaper the following day, she was horrified by the article which she believed made Mr Kean "look like a suspect in something which he was not involved in". She received several calls about it, including from clients wondering should they take their files out of the firm and if it had an issue with CAB. Under cross-examination, she agreed Mr McGovern was aged 29 when he bought the Crumlin property for 155,000 cash. It was not routine to make house purchase for cash but some buyers did and there were documents showing Mr McGovern was a director of a car company, she said. She recalled the conveyance as "relatively straightforward" transaction. The CAB officers had assured herself and Mr Kean their visit concerned Mr McGovern, the firm had no liability or responsibility, and the visit would have no impact on it, she said. Earlier, under continuing cross-examination by Eoin McCullough, for the newspaper, Mr Kean agreed the search warrant obtained by CAB was a formal document permitting CAB to enter his premises, by force if necessary, search it and seize documents concerning the Crumlin house transaction. He was presented with a warrant but the CAB officers did not search or raid the office and did not seize documents as those were provided to them, he said. He agreed references in the article to CAB "calling" to the office as part of its probe into the Kinahan drugs cartel and seeking a file relating to the McGovern house purchase, were correct. He also agreed the activities of criminal gangs, and the efforts of gardai and CAB to combat those, are of public interest and concern. His complaint was about the entirety of the article, including the headline and use of photos of him which made him look "as if the world had collapsed on me". He agreed he had options other than defamation proceedings to deal with his complaints about the article. John Murphy, a solicitor based in Enniscorthy, said, when he initially saw the article, he got the impression Mr Kean was "in big trouble" and was "caught up in criminality". When he read the article in full, he realised it concerned a CAB call to a solicitors office and the solicitor had co-operated with the CAB officers. The case continues. The wife of a publican who was beaten up and left to die on a toilet floor said his voice had been taken on the night he died but she was now giving it back to him. Romanian national Marian Lingurar Jr (24) was sentenced to nine years in prison yesterday for his role in the manslaughter of Co Galway teacher and publican John Kenny in 2011. Speaking at his sentencing hearing at Galway Circuit Criminal Court, Kathleen Kenny addressed Lingurar directly on behalf of herself and her daughter Gillian. Looking at the accused, who sat passively looking back at her, Ms Kenny said: "Gillian and I want to look him in the eyes and ask him why did they need to inflict such horrific pain and suffering on John? "Do you even remember John's last words? What did happen?" she asked. "Why did you needlessly kill a defenceless, kind and loving man who we loved more that all the world? "Marian Lingurar Junior, you engaged in a brutal and cowardly act. We will never know the true events of that dreadful night and so many questions will plague us for the rest of our lives," Ms Kenny said. She said John's voice had been taken from him the night he died but their statement would give him back his voice. Lingurar, with former addresses in Loughgeorge, Claregalway, Co Galway, and Blackpool, Co Cork, was found guilty by a jury last January of the manslaughter of Mr Kenny (56), at Kenny's pub in Oughterard on September 25, 2011. The trial heard Mr Kenny was badly beaten, tied up and left to die alone on the floor of the ladies' toilet in his pub by a gang of men, including the accused, who had planned to rob him that night. The accused had been a 16-year-old bouncer, working on the door of the pub the previous evening. Eyewitnesses, who gave evidence at the trial, saw him let other Romanian men into the pub after closing time and bolt the door from inside. Mr Kenny was alone in the pub at the time. Ms Kenny and her daughter found Mr Kenny's body the following evening. He had sustained severe injuries to his upper body, consistent with blows from a heavy object and with kicks and punches. His hands had been tied behind his back and a jacket wound tightly around his face and head. Post-mortem results indicated he would not have died immediately and would have had difficulty breathing due to the position in which his body had been left, face-down on the floor. Lingurar was also found guilty of a second charge of burglary at Mr Kenny's pub on the same night after it emerged a "wad" of cash had been taken from Mr Kenny's pocket and also from the till. The accused absconded from the jurisdiction before his initial trial was due to take place in 2013, but was arrested when he returned to Cork last May. His sentence hearing heard he had changed his name to Marian Lazare while in Romania and had 'signed on' for Job Seeker's Allowance on his return to Ireland last year, using a different identity. He had denied any involvement in the assault and robbery of Mr Kenny. Imposing a nine-year sentence, Judge Rory McCabe said there was no scope for suspending any portion of it as the accused told the probation service he did not accept the guilty verdict. A Garda who found Ana Kriegel's body thought he had found either a "mannequin or something terrible", a trial heard. The schoolgirl's naked body was found in a room in a derelict house in Lucan with blue tape around her neck. Three of her fingers were inside the ligature or "noose", as if she was "pulling it away", Sergeant Declan Birchall said. The jury was shown a blood-stained concrete block and a blood-stained length of timber, which gardai said were recovered from the room where Ana's body was found. They were also shown a 3D reconstruction of the crime scene. The two youths, aged 13 at the time, have pleaded not guilty to the murder of Ana (14) at Glenwood House, Laraghcon, Clonee Road in Lucan, Dublin, on May 14 last year. One of the boys, Boy A, has also denied a charge of aggravated sexual assault. In his evidence, Sergeant Declan Birchall said he was in charge of the Divisional Search Team on May 17, 2018, and had been tasked to search the park for any signs of Ana, who was missing. Sgt Birchall said the team of four had arranged to meet at the entrance to the park at 12 noon. There were a number of derelict buildings in the area, and it was planned to search them. Sgt Birchall said he and his team were searching Glenwood House and its outbuildings when one of his colleagues said he may have found something in the main house. Sgt Birchall said he went into Glenwood House through the back door and into a room at the front of the house. Asked by prosecutor Brendan Grehan SC what he saw, Sgt Birchall said he saw the "body of a female lying on the floor". She was naked except for a pair of black socks, the court heard. Sgt Birchall said he could not see Ana's face and he believed there was something across her face. When he got closer he realised her hair was covering her face "as if she was thrashing her hair and it covered her face", he said. Sgt Birchall also noted blood at Ana's nose and her head was tilted back. There was a ligature or "noose" around her neck and she had three fingers inside it, as if she was "pulling it away". He checked for signs of life but there were none. Sgt Birchall said he and his team then removed themselves from the building to allow Garda technical experts to photograph the scene. In his evidence, Garda Sean White said he was part of the Divisional Search Team searching for Ana. On May 17, Gda White said he entered Glenwood House in Lucan through the back door. He went through a small porch and into the back kitchen. Gda White said he then turned left into a "dark room". Gda White said he "initially thought the body was a mannequin". The body was naked and the feet were pointing towards him. He called out and there was no response. Gda White said he took in his surroundings and the smell of dried blood, and he realised what he had found. He called out to Sgt Birchall and the area was later declared a crime scene. In his evidence, Detective Garda Seamus O'Donnell, from the Garda Technical Bureau, said he attended Ana's post-mortem on the evening of May 17, 2018. Gda O'Donnell said Ana was naked except for a pair of black socks. She was wearing fake nails but only three remained. Gda O'Donnell said a length of Tescon-branded tape was wrapped once around her neck. A long silver necklace with a locket in the shape of a heart was stuck to the tape. Gda O'Donnell also said there were "small cuts and abrasions all over the body of the deceased". Gda O'Donnell said he returned to Glenwood House on May 18 and a number of items from the scene were labelled and packaged. A length of timber and half of a concrete block was then shown by Gda O'Donnell to the court. Both were blood-stained, the garda said, and a nail was protruding from one end of the timber. Earlier, Detective Garda Eoin Conway, also from the Garda Technical Bureau, said he photographed Glenwood House in Lucan between May 17 and May 20. Going through a booklet of photographs, which was provided to the jury, Gda Conway said one photograph was of a piece of a stick or "section of a door frame" and another was of a concrete block. The block had "blood and hair visible on it", Gda Conway said. The garda also took a number of photographs of exhibits at the Photographic Section of the Garda Technical Bureau. Gda Conway described a picture he took of a black hoodie top with logos on the sleeves and another picture of a strap top which was "torn down the side" and bottom. Other items of clothing photographed by Gda Conway included a pair of shorts, a pair of "dusty and dirty" leggings which were recovered "beside the body" and a white bra, which was blood-stained on one side. Gda Conway also gave evidence that other photographs showed "areas on the carpet and walls where there is blood staining". The trial continues. A religious teacher jailed for molesting a young student at a Dublin mosque has had his 14-month jail term increased to four-and-a-half years by the Court of Appeal. Abdur Rashid (51), of Blessington Court, Dublin, had denied sexually assaulting the six-year-old girl during religious instruction at the mosque in December 2015. The Bangladeshi national was found guilty by a jury at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court and sentenced to 18 months imprisonment, with the final four months suspended, by Judge Pauline Codd last November. The Director of Public Prosecutions sought a review of Rashid's sentence on grounds that it was "unduly lenient", and the Court of Appeal agreed yesterday. Giving judgment in the three-judge court, Mr Justice Patrick McCarthy said Rashid was a teacher in the mosque providing religious instruction to children. He said Rashid kissed the girl in an adult manner, placed his hands under her clothing and touched the genital area. The victim's mother confronted Rashid, who denied knowing anything about it. He made certain admissions to gardai, which he subsequently "rowed back on", and pleaded not guilty at a three-day trial, in which the victim was cross-examined. Counsel for the DPP, Peter Le Vert BL, submitted that the sentencing judge erred in placing the offence at the lower end of the scale of seriousness. Mr Le Vert said the skin-to-skin contact and the fact Rashid was in a position of authority "firmly" placed the offence in the mid-range. Furthermore, there was no guilty plea and no expression of remorse, counsel added. Mr Justice McCarthy said the offence was of "considerable gravity". He said the young girl became traumatised by the incident. She was afraid she would contract a disease from the kiss and that Rashid would remove her from school. The offence also had an adverse affect on the victim's family, particularly the girl's mother, the judge added. Mr Justice McCarthy said the mitigating factors were "modest". He said Rashid had been living in Ireland since 2001, had a history of work and had no relevant previous convictions. The Court of Appeal found the sentencing judge to have erred in selecting two years as the pre-mitigation headline sentence. Rashid was immediately taken into custody. Given the clamour in recent years for meaningful insurance cost reform, the Government's tardiness in pressing forward with the Judicial Council Bill is baffling. Last July, the Personal Injuries Commission (PIC) identified the introduction of a judicial council as a crucial measure. Judges have been seeking one for many years for all sorts of reasons, including their desire for a body to establish best practice for their education, support and training. But the PIC identified another use for the council, saying it could compile guidelines for appropriate general damages for various types of personal injury. The commission, headed by former High Court President Nicholas Kearns, found that awards for less serious injuries such as whiplash were significantly out of step with other jurisdictions. Under its proposals, the commission said Irish society was being presented with an important opportunity to consider an appropriate rebalancing and recalibration of awards. "This is an opportunity to improve the situation for consumers, business owners and society without disproportionately restricting recourse to compensation for genuine and seriously injured claimants," he said in the report. However, rather than prioritising the Judicial Council Bill, which had been slumbering since November 2017, the Government took its eye off the ball. First there was a headline-grabbing proposal last November by Junior Minister Michael D'Arcy for a referendum to override judicial discretion in the awarding of compensation claims. The proposal was misguided for a number of reasons, not least because it was hopelessly premature when the PIC recommendations had yet to be implemented. Then in February, Justice Minister Charlie Flanagan suggested that, as an interim measure, judges join in a group with Department of Justice and PIAB officials to identify revised guideline awards "where appropriate". The proposal was shot down by Chief Justice Frank Clarke for a range of legal reasons, outlined in a letter obtained by the Irish Independent. This left the minister boxed in a corner and it appears that it is only since the Chief Justice's letter that any serious urgency has been demonstrated in progressing the bill. The proposed legislation was reawakened last month when it completed committee stage in the Seanad. The Department of Justice now says it hopes the bill can be enacted before the summer recess. This means a council could be set up by the end of the year. In truth, it can't come soon enough. Mr Justice Clarke may have had misgiving about the interim solution put forward by the minister, but he is on record as saying the PIC report has to be taken seriously. He has previously told the Irish Independent that if damages for "small to medium" injuries were higher here than in other countries, this had consequences for competitiveness and jobs. "I don't think we necessarily have to have a race to the bottom and have the same level of damages as the country with the least, but I think we need to be in the ball park," he said. A farm labourer who claims to find bending painful and difficult following a car accident has lost a 60,000 damages claim. Krysztok Sokowski (39) of Seafield Road, Rush, Co Dublin made the claim following a rear-ending traffic accident in 2015. Following a concentrated period of cross-examination barrister Frank Martin told Krysztof Sokowski: There has been no injury whatsoever arising from this accident. This is a copycat claim riding on the back of the attendance of the driver of the vehicle who went with you by prior arrangement to see a doctor. Mr Martin, who appeared with Delahunty OConnor Solicitors for the defendant Dariusz Chudyk and AXA Insurance, had questioned Sokowski, originally from Poland, on his need for an interpreter in court whenever the had been living and working mainly through English since arriving in Ireland 12 years ago. Sokowski, a father of two had told Judge Jacqueline Linnane in the Circuit Civil Court that he needed to attend his doctor with the driver of the car in which he had been injured in order that he could translate for him. He said he had been one of five people returning from a party when their car had been hit from behind by another vehicle near Rosemount Roundabout, Lusk. Three days later he had attended his GP, the same GP that a number of those injured in the accident had attended. The court heard that one claim associated with the accident had been withdrawn at the 11th hour while one had already been dealt with and others were still before the court. Mr Sokowski said all of those claiming damages had attended the same solicitor only because the firm was local to where all of them lived. Mr Sokowski said he was fully recovered from the main effects of the December 2015 accident but still experienced pain when bending during his work on the farm where he was employed. Dismissing Sokowskis claim, Judge Linnane said Mr Martin had highlighted gaps in the medical reports that had been handed into court and on which Mr Sokowski had based his claim for compensation for personal injuries. Liability had already been conceded in the case and Judge Linnane was told the court only had to assess the extent of damages, if any, that Mr Sokowski was entitled to. The judge awarded costs against Mr Sokowski. A 64-year-old woman, who claimed she had been dragged along by a taxi as she tried to enter it, has settled a 60,000 damages claim in the circuit civil court for an undisclosed sum against the taxi driver. Circuit court President, Mr Raymond Groarke heard Anne Barrett, of Connolly Road, Ballyphehane, Co. Cork, had been in Dublin for the day with her family when her son hailed down a taxi, driven by Michael Fitzsimons, of Dargle Road, Drumcondra, Dublin 9. Roger Pope, counsel for Ms Barrett, told the court his client had attempted to enter into the back right hand side of the taxi, as her son sat into the passenger seat, and her daughter and granddaughter sat in the rear seats. Ms Barrett said that as she placed one leg into the vehicle the taxi moved off causing her to fall to the ground and be dragged along with it. She told the court she has significant mobility issues having suffered two strokes in the past and that the accident had aggravated previously existing issues with her back. Mr Pope, who appeared with Martin A Harvey solicitors, said medical medical records had been agreed and they outlined Ms Barretts injuries to her elbow, hip and lower back. She had also been dazed and could not recall if she had banged her head. A CT scan in Cork University Hospital revealed that Ms Barrett had not suffered any damages to her brain and X-rays showed she had not broken any bones. Following the incident she had been helped off the ground by her family and Mr Fitzsimons. She said they all got back into the taxi and Mr Fitzsimons took them to where they collected a new car for her daughter. She told Conor Kearney, who appeared with Delahunty and OConnor solicitors for the defendant, that at the time she did not feel a need to confront Mr Fitzsimons as she was feeling stunned. Later, before they left Dublin, she and her family decided to report the incident at Santry Garda Station. Mr Fitzsimons told Judge Groarke that he had not started to drive when he heard shouts of Mammys fallen, Mammys fallen coming from the backseat. He said this was when he had got out to help Ms Barrett off the ground. Judge Groarke said he had difficulty believing that Ms Barrett would make up the incident and he accepts her account of what happened. He said having heard evidence from Garda Stephen Emmett, who happened to be patrolling nearby and had seen Ms Barrett lying on the ground near the boot of the car, that he believed her account of having been dragged. Having decided liability in favour of Ms Barrett, Judge Groarke suggested that the parties discuss the issue of damages. Shortly afterwards Mr Pope told the court the matter had been amicably resolved. An artists impression of the new apartments More than 40 people will be expected to share a kitchen if plans to build a new co-living apartment building in south Dublin is approved. The development of 208 shared-living homes in Dun Laoghaire was criticised by local representatives last night at the authority's area committee meeting. Green Party councillors have now called for a rewriting of residential guidelines, given the "Dickensian" nature of the developer's proposals. Bartra Capital Property intends to develop a five-storey, co-living building at the site of the former school house on Eblana Avenue in the town's centre. Each en-suite bedroom will be 16.5sqm and include a pull-down bed and kitchenette. Leases on the units will be from two to 12 months. The property has been submitted to An Bord Pleanala as a strategic housing development, with a decision expected to be made in July. The co-living scheme provides occupants with their own en-suite bathroom, but they will have to share a communal kitchen and living area. It bridges the gap between apartments and student accommodation, with one room expected to rent for 1,300 a month. Car parking is also not required and the number of units per floor is higher than standard apartments. Developments are also exempt from Part V social housing obligations. A major criticism of the Dun Laoghaire development is that 42 bedrooms on one floor are situated around a kitchen and living space to share. Green Party European Elections candidate Ciaran Cuffe claims developments like these provide an insight into a dystopian housing market "driven by profit and greed". "I suspect that even the communal living apartments of Soviet Russia had more generous spatial standards than are apparent in this planning application," he said. "If permission is granted for this development, it will result in a slowing down of provision of adequately sized homes, as super-profits will be made from these shoebox units." Green party Cllr Ossian Smyth told the Irish Independent that if this shared-living apartment was approved, then many more like it would follow suit. Bartra Capital Property was recently rebuffed by Dublin City Council, when it tried to build 105 such units in Rathmines in south Dublin. Attempts were made to contact Bartra Capital, but the developer did not respond at the time of going to press. Four males have been arrested by detectives investigating the death of Lyra McKee. The journalist was shot while watching disturbances in Derry last month. Dissident republican group the New IRA said its members carried out the killing. On Thursday morning, the Police Service of Northern Ireland said four people have been arrested as part of their murder investigation. The four males, aged 15, 18, 38 and 51, were arrested in Derry under terrorism legislation. They have been taken to the serious crime suite in Musgrave Station, Belfast where they are currently being questioned by detectives. Detective Superintendent Jason Murphy said the arrests came after searches at four houses. "As part of this morning's operation detectives carried out searches at four houses in the city and arrested four people in connection with the violence which was orchestrated on the streets of Creggan on the evening of Lyra McKee's murder," he said. "They are currently in custody where they are being questioned. "I want to thank the public for the widespread support we have received to date, including more than 140 people who have provided images, footage and other details via our dedicated major incident public portal. "I still want to hear from anyone who can tell us anything they know. "I would urge anyone who has any information to contact my team of detectives on 101. "Alternatively, if you would prefer to provide information without giving your details, you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers and speak to them anonymously on 0800 555 111." People can also upload any footage that they have to the major incident public portal via the following link: https://mipp.police.uk/operation/PSNI19O09-PO1. TRADE union Forsa warned the Government it faces a showdown over the severe impact staff transfers and funding diversions to Irish Water will have on local councils nationwide. Trade union officials stressed that such staff transfers and funding diversions could significantly undermine Irish councils. The warning came as the union overwhelmingly demanded that the Government sanction a referendum to ensure Irish Water remains in public ownership. The union also overwhelmingly backed a motion that local government water services staff cannot be transferred, without their agreement, to Irish Water or any stand-alone water services utility. Forsa delegate Gary Smith from Mayo warned: "This (mess) was not caused by us, we warned against it and we will not be victims of it." The trade union had vigorously campaigned in 2010 for water services to be retained within the local government structure. However, water charges became a lightning rod for national protest in 2015/2016 amid privatisation claims and fears some families could face water fees of 750 per annum. Irish Water and water charges dominated the 2016 General Election debate. Now, Forsa warned that the transfer of staff, resources and funding to a stand-alone water utility will have enormous implications for the entire remaining local government structure. Forsa national secretary, Peter Nolan, stressed that while 3,000 people working in Irish Water services are very concerned about the current situation, "all 30,000 local government employees are also worried." Some local councils face losing between 25pc and 30pc of their funding streams if water treatment and all its associated services are transferred to a stand-alone entity. Conference was warned that potential future privatisation of Irish water services remains an issue of major concern both for workers and the general public. One delegate pointed out that, after privatisation, water charges in the UK soared by 44pc. However, in Ireland, water service provision under local government control was ranked by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as boasting 99.82pc compliance with EU drinking water standards. Delegate Orla Murrin said it was vital the provision of water services remain within the public sector. "I don't want to go to my teenage children and say we had the chance to keep the provision of water services under public control (but failed to do so)." Mr Nolan said that trade unions required "unanimous support" in keeping water services - one of the country's most vital national resources - within the public sphere. "We are not going to stand by and allow water to be privatised. Let that message be very clear." Forsa local government and local services members voted overwhelmingly at the union's Kilkenny annual conference for a special referendum to be staged to allow the Constitution to be amended to ensure water services remain in full public control and ownership. A total of 11 motions were tabled at the Forsa conference on various issues involving Irish Water and water services. Critically, Forsa publicly welcomed a commitment from Local Government Minister Eoghan Murphy that the provisions of the Water Services Act will not be invoked in any negotiations over the future of Irish Water. The union further warned that it wants the terms and conditions of water services employees to be fully respected. Forsa vowed to oppose any transfer without agreement of staff from local government water services to Irish Water or any future successor. Proposals have been outlined for all water services officials to be operating within a single, stand-alone entity. It is hoped this can be achieved by 2021. However, a services level agreement with trade unions stipulates a 2025 timeline. Forsa members overwhelmingly backed motions that no water services staff member can be transferred without their full agreement. "We will defend resolutely, by all means at our disposal, all of the terms and conditions of our members in water services," one Forsa branch member warned. Irish Water is responsible for the national water services. Everyday more than 1.7 billion litres of water is pumped throughout the national water pipeline network which extends to 63,000km. However, almost 50pc of that clean, treated water is lost through leaks in the antiquated network. More than 500m is currently being invested in the Irish water distribution network. A review of the running of Waterford's hospital mortuary has been ordered by Health Minister Simon Harris. The mortuary has been at the centre of controversy for the last two weeks after pathologists warned of cramped conditions and lack of proper refrigeration facilities, forcing some deceased bodies to be placed in the corridor where they were at risk of leaking. Mr Harris said yesterday he will now draw up terms of reference for a review of the operation of the mortuary. A modular prefab refrigerated building is to arrive on site tomorrow to provide more temporary mortuary space. Mr Harris told the Dail: "I want to take a couple of days to get this right and a couple of days in relation to terms of reference and who should carry out the review." Taoiseach Leo Varadkar apologised last week for his comments on the doctors' claims, which he appeared to question. He admitted he "got it wrong". The State Pathologist's Office has already said it will no longer be making referrals to the mortuary for post mortems. Meanwhile, Waterford minister John Halligan broke his silence on the controversy yesterday as he called for an "independent inquiry". Speaking to Damien Tiernan on WLR's 'Deise Today' programme, Mr Halligan criticised Mr Varadkar for comments he made trying to dismiss the situation as a "strange story". At the time, a spokesperson for the Taoiseach said he had been briefed by Mr Halligan. He said the situation is "highly sensitive" and Mr Varadkar "caused upset by his initial remarks". Mr Halligan, who has consistently campaigned for extra cardiac facilities at the same hospital, said an independent inquiry is now justified. HOLLAND & Barrett has become the first chain in Ireland to end the sale of wet wipes - with plans to ban the products from September. The move is part of efforts to limit the damage they cause to water systems. Holland & Barrett is removing all 34 products in its wet wipe range from its 800 Ireland and UK stores and replacing them with sustainable, waste-free and reusable alternatives such as double-sided cotton cloths, unbleached cotton muslin cloths, cotton pads and an exfoliating mitt. Millions of wet wipes are sold in the UK and Ireland every year, with uses ranging from make-up removal and hand sanitisers to surface cleaners, with increasing numbers causing problems in sewers and waterways. Joanne Cooke, head of beauty at Holland & Barrett, said: "There is a growing awareness of how much our current throwaway culture is damaging our oceans, beaches and rivers. "We want to encourage our customers to think about what they currently throw away and encourage them to swap to more sustainable alternatives. The quickest way for us all to make a positive impact on the world we live in is to choose to spend our money on more sustainable products. "There are a variety of eco-friendly alternatives to wet wipes that are just as easy, efficient, and safe to skin, and we're excited to be leading the way on these, alongside our exciting suppliers, who are already making huge strides in moving towards a more sustainable future." Jo Ruxton, founder of Plastic Oceans Foundation, said: "We are delighted that Holland & Barrett are taking a clear lead on sustainability by banning one of the problem products we see in our rivers and oceans - single-use, disposable wet wipes - which use the world's precious resources to manufacture, still come in plastic packaging, and still get flushed down the loo or thrown in the bin. "We hope that other large retailers will join Holland & Barrett on their mission to make the high street a more environmentally-conscious place." A LUCKY Lotto player has just become 1 million richer after landing the top prize in Wednesday's Lotto Plus 1 draw. The Irish National Lottery has confirmed that the winning ticket was sold in Co Tipperary. The winning numbers were 2, 4, 13, 17, 23, 27 with bonus number 26. There was no winner of 4.7 million Lotto Jackpot, but over 74,000 players won smaller prizes. There were 66 winners of the Raffle Prize, each receiving 500. The win comes after one anonymous family landed 6.4 million last month in a Lotto jackpot win. The winning husband, who claimed the massive prize as part of a small family syndicate, said he was still coming to terms with their good fortune. Even after two weeks, we still cant believe it. You always buy a ticket knowing that youve a chance of winning the jackpot but when it actually happens its just unreal. I checked my phone after the draw and I clicked into the ticket and my jaw nearly hit the floor when I saw the 6.4 million prize. It took me nearly twenty minutes to finally open my mouth to tell my wife. A protest was held outside Leinster House calling for better homecare packages and respite Caring for an elderly loved one or someone with a chronic illness is the number one reason for individuals to suffer mental and physical health problems, a professor has revealed. Professor Brendan Kelly, a consultant psychiatrist at Tallaght Hospital, called for better services for carers to protect their mental health. He was part of a team which carried out ground-breaking research last year within the community. 'Physical and Mental Health in Post-Recession Ireland: A Community Study from Tallaght' surveyed 350 homes and found "carer burden" to be the single largest factor affecting carers' well-being. "In 2014, the biggest predictor of poor mental and physical health was unemployment," Prof Kelly said. Read More "But now the number one cause is if a person lives in a household where another person with a disability or chronic illness lives. "Many families want to do the best for their family member but in turn it's having a huge effect on their own health. "Most families have no desire to be reliant on the State or HSE services but they struggle without support." Prof Kelly said that, where there is "a lack of the nuclear family, people who care for loved ones are really finding it difficult". "There's a lack of uncles, aunts, siblings to help care and then having too much of the responsibility is having huge detrimental effects. "Our population is ageing and now we have high employment but we have carers really struggling and the obvious answer is more support. "Stress leads to higher levels of cortisol in a person and if this keeps recurring then it can lead to brain, cardiac, digestive and muscular/skeletal health problems." Murdered: Journalist Lyra McKee was shot dead as she tried to do her job reporting on riots in Derry. Photo: Reuters The sister of murdered journalist Lyra McKee has called on her killers to hand themselves into the police. Nichola Corner said her sister deserves justice. In an interview with Channel 4 News, Ms Corner said that "those people need to really think about handing themselves in". "They need to do the right thing. None of this will ever bring my sister back to my mum, to me, to my brothers, my sisters, her nieces and nephews," she said. "As far as I'm concerned that's the least these people can do. Anyone who's helping them or guarding them or protecting them, they need to do the right thing as well." In a powerful interview, Ms Corner said her sister's death must not be in vain and that there must be both political and social change on the back of it. She said that Lyra didn't see labels and had friends from every background. "When I could feel myself faltering, I could just hear her say, come on Nic, you can do it. Do it for me. Do it for me. "And when I looked down at her wee coffin, I just took a deep breath, focused myself again on the script, and just promised her that I will do my best. "Failure isnt an option. We have to make Lyras legacy not just about the political landscape but about changing society," she said. "Lyra didnt see labels, she didnt see religion, she didnt see what political party you were part of, because she had friends in them all." Wearing a 'failure isn't an option' t-shirt in her interview, Nichola shared a journal entry from Lyra on the day of her death and how she had a plan of action up until April 17, 2020. Lyra (29) was shot dead while observing rioting in Derry's Creggan estate. The so-called new IRA claimed responsibility offering it's "full and sincere apologies" to family and friends of the reporter. Something described as "mealy-mouthed" by partner Sara Canning. Her death has prompted calls for Northern Ireland's political leaders to come together and find a resolution to restoring the power sharing institutions. "There is a terrible irony in our Lyra's murder, because she would have understood these people or tried to, and she would have tried to help them," Ms Corner said. "I suppose they robbed themselves of one person who would have wanted to hear their story and would want to help them move forward. Nichola says her sister called her on the day of her killing - as she would have done on any other day. But after Lyra told her she loved her, her sister asked if she was alright because "something just didnt seem right". "I kind of guess, even though I know I spoke to her after that again, in a way that was her souls way of saying goodbye. A review of how Northern Ireland's justice system deals with serious sexual offences has recommended banning the public from trials. The Gillen Review, which commenced in May last year, is an independent review of how courts are set up to deliver justice in serious sexual offence cases. A former Lord Justice of Appeal, the Right Honourable Sir John Gillen, led the review, supported by an advisory panel. The most notable recommendation was that in order to protect the complainant in these cases, the public should be banned from attending trials. The families of those involved would still be allowed to attend, along with members of the press, to act as the eyes and ears of the public. Sir John first outlined the proposal in his preliminary report in November. Following a public consultation exercise, it has now been retained as a key recommendation in his final report. "I have spoken to maybe 35 to 40 complainants, who have been through the system, and that sense of public humiliation, in a small place like Northern Ireland, where everybody knows everybody - even if you get a few people attending trials in local areas such as Strabane or Newry or Derry, it's like putting it in the paper," Justice Gillen said. "Everybody knows everyone, and the legal right to have anonymity completely disappears. "Secondly, this is the most intimate personal details of their lives, they're at their most vulnerable moment when they are explaining these things, and to do it in front of the cruel gaze of the public is one of the reasons why we have such few people coming forward to report these offences. "It's not the only reason, but it's an important one." The overall conviction rate at the Crown Court for serious sexual assault cases dropped from 73.8pc in 2016/17 to 63.8pc in 2017/18. By comparison the Public Prosecution Service's overall conviction rate for all offences in Crown Court is 85pc. Justice Gillen says that due to the nature of the offences, conviction rates may never be extremely high. "In serious sexual offences where it's one word against the other, there's usually no witnesses, no forensics, neither of those involved have ever been in trouble before, you're always going to get a high bar set for conviction, all of those will always create a problem. "With matters such as a rape, social media and other influences can influence the way juries look at these matters." The longest chapter in the Gillen Review, with the most recommendations made on one topic, concerns social media, which Justice Gillen says poses a real threat of polluting justice. "Jurors are hearing and reading matters that they should not be and the idea of protecting the anonymity of the complainant disappears. "The chances of the jury hearing completely prejudicial material is also something we have to address," he said. "Even if it's only two or three jurors hear this, that is enough to pollute the stream of justice, so I've made a huge number of recommendations about that. "If we keep the public out, apart from members of the press and the families of the complainant and accused, that will control to some extent the flow of social media information." A public consultation for the review engaged with more than 200 organisations and individuals, including victims, human rights groups, the judiciary, the Police Service of Northern Ireland, those with legislative responsibility for justice and the law, and those with an academic view. The team also conducted extensive research in Northern Ireland supported by the experiences of 16 countries and various jurisdictions across Europe, the US, South Africa, Australia and New Zealand. Justice Gillen added that his team had received 150 extensive written submissions, more than 400 respondents to an online survey and extensive public and media interest. The report has made 16 key recommendations covering more than 200 separate points, 75pc of which do not involve legislative change, however some could be held up due to the suspension of the Assembly. "The public has spoken and what they are saying, very loudly and very clearly, is that now is the time for radical improvement in the way our justice system deals with serious sexual offences," Justice Gillen added. The recommendations have been presented to the Criminal Justice Board. Taoiseach Leo Varadkar arrives for the informal meeting of European Union leaders in Sibiu, Romania REUTERS/Francois Lenoir ENSURING close post-Brexit ties with the UK and action on tackling climate change are among Irish priorities as EU leaders meet today to discuss the future of Europe. Taoiseach Leo Varadkar is in Sibiu, Romania today for an informal summit of 27 EU leaders where Brexit is not on the agenda for a European Council meeting for perhaps the first time in almost three years. British prime minister Theresa May is not attending the summit. The remaining EU leaders are to outline a strategy for the next five years. Irish priorities are said to include ensuring the EU maintains a close and comprehensive partnership with the UK after Brexit. Deepening the EU single market and making the EU a leader on climate action are also on Irelands agenda, as is ensuring the views of EU citizens are foremost in EU priorities. The European Commission has recommended that the EUs strategy up to 2024 focuses on key areas including promoting peace, investing in the technologies of tomorrow, upholding the rule of law and fighting climate change. Mr Varadkar attended a meeting of the European Peoples Party (EPP) this morning along with leaders like Germanys Chancellor Angela Merkel and Austrias Sebastian Kurz. Romanian President Klaus Iohannis welcomed them. He hailed the importance of the summit to his country and noted that it was 30 years since the fall of Communism in Romania. The EPP is Fine Gael's sister party in the European Parliament. While Mrs May is not attending the summit, the UK's Brexit secretary Steve Barclay did deliver a speech in Sibiu today. He said the meeting is an opportunity to consider the sustainable future relationship between the UK and the EU. He spoke of the security threats facing the continent, the risk posed by climate change and economic challenges. Mr Barclay said: These challenges we share are actually bigger than the issue of Brexit, they are more significant, more complex than the challenges we are looking at in the Brexit context. And they demand that we continue across Europe to work together in terms of our future relationship. He said his job title - Secretary of State for Exiting the European Union - does not reveal what its real focus is, which is to help position the UK to meet its future challenges and those challenges sit alongside and in common with those being addressed here in Sibiu. We have always said we are not exiting Europe, but we share the same values, nor can we opt out of the challenges identified by the Commission leading up to this conference in terms of security, cyber and the environment. He said he looks forward to working with the EU as the UK continues to be an active partner in meeting those challenges head on. TAOISEACH Leo Varadkar and other European leaders have agreed a declaration that the EU will "stay united through thick and thin". The statement comes against the backdrop of a looming Brexit and amid fears of a surge in support for populists in European Elections later this month. Twenty-seven EU leaders including Germany's Angela Merkel and Emmanuel Macron of France are today meeting in Sibiu, Romania where the European Council is holding an informal summit. The declaration notes that the EU, with its Single Market and around half a billion citizens, has grown to be a major player on the international scene. It says: "We reaffirm our belief that united, we are stronger in this increasingly unsettled and challenging world." The leaders unanimously agreed ten commitments to make the EU stronger and "our future brighter". They pledge to "defend one Europe" 30 years after the fall of the Iron Curtain and say there is "no place for divisions that work against our collective interest." The declaration goes on to say: "We will stay united, through thick and thin. We will show each other solidarity in times of need and we will always stand together. We can and we will speak with one voice. Mr Varadkar has frequently pointed to solidarity shown to Ireland by other EU members states during the Brexit process. British prime minister Theresa May is not attending today's summit. Other commitments by the other 27 EU leaders include continuing to protect our way of life, democracy and the rule of law. They also promise to protect our citizens and keep them safe by investing in our soft and hard power and by working with our international partners. Europe, they say, will be a responsible global leader and will work with international partners to jointly tackle global issues such as preserving our environment and fighting climate change. The declaration conlcudes: The Union of today is stronger than that of yesterday and we want to continue to build its strength for tomorrow. This is our commitment for the future generations. This is the spirit of Sibiu and of a new Union at 27 ready to embrace its future as one. Plea: Fiona OReilly, from Walkinstown, Dublin, says she needs more hours of homecare. Photo: Mark Condren Hundreds of disability rights protesters united to protest outside the Dail, calling for better access to homecare packages and respite care. The group, many of whom were in wheelchairs and some with profound disabilities, defied heavy rain to gather on Kildare Street and deliver a message to politicians loud and clear, that "disability discrimination" will not be tolerated. Maria Elena Costa Sa, from the Central Remedial Clinic (CRC) in Clontarf, Dublin, said they decided to protest after they found discrepancies in respite and homecare packages. "We're here today for the adults not able to access respite and homecare from the State," she told the Irish Independent. "It's not clear how these entitlements are being given out. It's very arbitrary. One person might be accessing these services and another not." Two women who attend CRC Clontarf in north Dublin, Linda Ahern (62) and Fiona O'Reilly (52), were the main architects of the protest. Both women, who have multiple sclerosis and use wheelchairs, remember well what life was like before they were diagnosed and they see the difference in how people with disabilities are treated compared to the able-bodied. "I was a sales adviser at Debenhams on Henry Street in Dublin, I was so independent," Ms O'Reilly, from Walkinstown, said. "I went on holidays all round the world. "Then I collapsed and was diagnosed with MS six years ago. I had to give up work. "I lost all that life I had. I needed help and I discovered I wasn't able to access all the assistance I needed. "I get 28 hours a week homecare. I have two carers, who use a hoist to get me out of bed in the morning. But I need more hours." Ms O'Reilly said her elderly parents, Jimmy (80) and Olive (79), have to fill the gaps where there isn't enough care. "My dad has to hoist me onto the loo - this is a man of 80 years old, who suffers bad backs. My parents are older people, risking injury to help their daughter where I should be getting more support from the HSE." Vicky Matthew (44) left her home in Ballyshannon in Co Donegal at 5am to travel to Dublin for the protest. A wheelchair user, the mother of two is "terrified" the HSE will cut her personal assistant hours. She is planning to go to college in September but received a phone call from the HSE recently. "They told me they wanted to carry out a review. I'm terrified they will cut my personal assistant hours. I have 11 hours a week and that helps me maintain an independent life," she said. Another wheelchair user, Connie Richardson (45) from Walkinstown, Dublin, said she felt people with disabilities are discriminated against. "Everything I need I have to really fight for, respite, personal assistants, everything is red tape. And it's not good enough. This is our lives and we matter," she said. THERE'S a new bar in town and unlike every other pub in Ireland, there's not a drop of alcohol in sight. The Virgin Mary, opening tomorrow on Capel Street, is the brainchild of veteran drinks experts Vaughan Yates and his business partner Oisin Davis. Inside, the decor - inspired by a "Dutch pharmacy" - is akin to many high-end bars popping up around the capital. There's wine, beer, cocktails and even champagne on the menu - but without the booze. The bar is a risk for a country known for its drinking culture, but Yates believes that there's no time like the present for a non-alcoholic bar. "The idea came from the fact that I think were at the beginning of a cultural shift in terms of peoples attitudes towards alcohol," Yates told Independent.ie. "Timing, peoples change to how they moderate what they drink, and the new products that have come out onto the market have made it possible to do this. "I love spirits, I like drinking good whiskeys and rums, but I did feel there was something missing in the market for people that dont drink. I really wanted to open it in Dublin, because I think Dublin has this ingrained culture of drinking." But with such a long-term culture, is Ireland ready to embrace the bar experience without the booze? "I think it will be interesting to see if it works here. If it works here, itll work anywhere," Yates says. "I think Irish people are more open than a lot of cultures. If you look at the changes in laws here, referendums- its a reflection of that. "People are saying, finally, a place for me, and I hope we get people in that want to experience something new." The team have even received support from Waterford Crystal, who have supplied a number of champagne flutes "inspired by Marie Antoinette", Yates says. And while there are pop-up 'sober' events happening constantly across the country, the team behind The Virgin Mary believe this may possibly be the first full-time, non-alcoholic bar in the world. "It is something really new. Im not sure there's any in the world that dont have alcohol. Its difficult to monitor because you get people that say theyre opening a non-alcoholic bar, but its just on a Friday. Or a sober Sunday. "This is a non-alcoholic bar, open all year round, and I think its one of the first, certainly high-end bar. "There are a few good hotels around the world that spend as much time on non-alcoholic menus as they do on alcohol menus, and we felt we wanted to really bring to Ireland a whole different spectrum of flavours and textures in the non-alcoholic category." The two-page menu features eight non-alcoholic beers, the "equivalent of a champagne", non-alcoholic wines, as well as cocktails mastered by head bar manager, Anna Walsh. Walsh, who has over 15 years in the hospitality industry and "10 years working with cocktails", said the difficulty with creating the menu came from "finding the texture that alcohol usually gives that lifts a drink up". "Trying to create drinks like this G&T, which has quite a bit of body with no booze. Thats where the challenge is, so it doesnt feel like youre just drinking lemonade," Ms Walsh told Independent.ie. "There isnt another bar like this so Im just figuring it out bit by bit." Price-wise, cocktails - which include their namesake, espresso martinis and cosmo-style drinks- span from 7-8, with beers and wines costing 4.50-5.50. "It's a cheaper price point than the equivalent high-end bar, where you might pay 12 for a G&T- here you pay 6.50," Mr Yates said. "They may not have alcohol but its more complicated to make non-alcoholic beers and wines. "We've a mix of Irish and brands from European countries. Guinness do Pure Brew, moving into non-alcoholic sector, but we have beers from York, Scotland, Holland. Our wines are from traditional wine-making countries." A Chilled Raven Nitro Coffee, poured from a stout tap, is enough to give Guinness a run for their money with a creamy head and a hint of coffee. While a botanical gin and tonic, made from Ceder's distilled non-alcoholic gin, is served in a typical goblet glass that drinkers have come to love - and it has the authentic taste down too. As for whether they plan on opening more around the country - around the world - Yates says: "Watch this space- we've already been approached. "I think this will go further afield." The Virgin Mary opens at 54 Capel Street in Dublin on Friday May 10. Do we care what happens to our money once we have handed it over to the Government in taxes? It often seems we don't, and that in the public consciousness "public money" materialises from some magical source unrelated to taxes paid. If most people don't consider the money the Government spends to be their money, then it shouldn't be surprising if they don't mind what it is spent on, whether grasping vested interests are handed large amounts of it, or how much of it is wasted. Consider this in the context of the national broadband plan, which has been the subject of so much controversy in recent days. Water and electricity are more essential for any home than high-speed broadband coming through a cable, but every house in the country does not have a right to 'free' connections to either the water or electricity networks. Despite this, politicians thought it a good idea to promise billionaires with holiday homes in the country's remotest places broadband connections at great cost to their poorer fellow citizens. Although things may change, there doesn't seem to be many votes for the Government in accepting that its current plan is a not a good use of taxpayers' money - if universal connectivity was as essential as the Government claims, many other governments around the world would be making the same commitment. But they are not. Because there are a lot of votes in appearing to give things away for "free", the Government has decided to throw 3bn of taxpayers' money at fulfilling its unwise promise. An even more powerful motive for proceeding with the plan is the fear of lost votes if the Government does not splash out with taxpayers' money. With local and European elections just weeks away, a rethinking of the plan would have the "rural-Ireland-is-neglected" brigade out in force. It appears as if people in this group vastly outnumber the people who think value for money should be a consideration when their taxes are spent. That is the case despite the fact that, in spite of its challenges, rural Ireland is very far from dying. After declining for 130 years after the Famine, the population of rural areas (classified as those outside conurbations of 1,500 people or more) bottomed out in the early 1970s. Since then it has grown by a quarter. Expand Close Click to view full size graphic / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Click to view full size graphic Even between the censuses of 2006 and 2016, a period which included the worst slump since the 1950s, it grew by more than 100,000. Only one county - Sligo - recorded a fall in its rural population over that tough 10-year period. All of this has taken place in a geographically peripheral country in an era of ever-increasing urbanisation. In Spain, Portugal and peripheral eastern parts of Europe, what the EU's statistics agency calls "predominantly rural regions" are in decline. In the most extreme case, Lithuania's rural regions lost almost a fifth of their populations in the 10 years after 2006. Ireland is at the other extreme, recording the biggest rural population gains of any European country in the decade to 2016, as the accompanying chart shows. Despite all of this, the rural-Ireland-is-dying narrative remains pervasive and widely peddled. Some politicians peddle it. Some even claim deliberate neglect is the cause. This happens, incidentally, despite huge transfer of taxpayers' money from urban to rural areas and despite rates of material deprivation being higher in the former than the latter. None of that is to say rural Ireland does not face challenges or that getting broadband to as many people across the country should not be a priority. But politicians need to show leadership and base their positions on facts and evidence. The Government has not done that with its broadband strategy. That has become publicly evident in the unprecedented publication of the evaluation of the civil servant best placed to evaluate how taxpayers' money is be spent. The Secretary General of the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform, Robert Watt, and his staff have shown beyond doubt the broadband plan is not good value for money. Committing 3bn to it will mean other projects, which are good value for money - including schools and hospitals - will be negatively effected. In a democracy, people get the politicians they deserve. If voters do not punish politicians for the misuse of their taxes when they go to the ballot box, then so be it. But if anyone thinks failing to sanction this sort of behaviour will not impact them personally, they should think again. The unthinking reaction to throw money at an issue as soon as it sprouts legs is central to the reason no progress has been made in reducing the mountain of government debt in recent years. If the economy hits the skids in the foreseeable future there will be no petrol in the tank to steer it back towards stability. How the broadband saga plays out will say a lot about how we collectively view the role of the State and how it uses our taxes. There has never been a case in which the politically motivated misallocation of resources has been highlighted in advance so clearly. If it goes ahead with a collective shrug of the national shoulders it will signal clearly to politicians that voters really don't care about how their money is spent. That will not be without serious consequence. When the anonymous bean counters find themselves on the front page there's trouble afoot for everybody. Robert Watt is central cog in the working of government - but his role is to be heard and not seen. Yet unlike many of his counterparts, the secretary general at the Department of Public Expenditure is not shy about being in the spotlight. Back in 2007, he wrote a newspaper article predicting the Irish economy was heading for a soft landing. At the time he warned against an "alarmist" view and said people shouldn't buy into "our impending doom". Colourfully, he added: "Breakfast Roll Man needn't panic just yet." When asked about this piece earlier this year, he told the Irish Independent that "nobody predicted the turmoil on international markets". That column is long forgotten, but readers may be more familiar with his recent appearance at the Public Accounts Committee to answer questions about the spiralling cost of the National Children's Hospital. Even before he got into the committee room, he was overheard describing the assembled TDs and senators as a "mob". Mr Watt said such projects should not be announced based on cost "guesstimates". He went on to reference the National Broadband Plan (NBP), cryptically saying: "I have views, but any comment would be career-changing." We now know those views. In a six-page dismissal of the NBP, he described it as "a massive leap of faith". The top civil servant believes there are "unprecedented risks" associated with pumping 3bn in subsidising rural broadband. In advice to his boss, Minister Paschal Donohoe, he suggested the State could be left with an "obsolete asset". These views were formed against the backdrop of events at the hospital. Speaking privately yesterday, a number of ministers were highly critical of Mr Watt's attitude to the project. One said: "He thinks he's running the government." Another saw it as a "pay back" from Mr Watt for his failed attempt at becoming the Central Bank governor. "The memo was written to do the maximum political damage," the Cabinet source said. Meanwhile, Opposition leaders are using the advice to declare the NBP bankrupt, but consciously stopping short of calling for it to be scrapped. They know derailing the project now would save money and cost votes. They can't shout 'stop'. Robert Watt tried that and it could be career-changing. The warnings from this week's Association of Garda Superintendents' conference, about an upsurge in cross-Border crime and security threats posed by Brexit and other international events, have a familiar ring. Before this we had last month's suicide bombings in Sri Lanka and the ongoing terrorist attacks throughout Europe. All fed into the endless stream of security analysts, commentators and experts identifying various reasons, despite a high level threat alert, why such attacks are happening. They also advanced numerous strategies the authorities should implement to prevent further outrages. Of course, the murder of 29-year-old journalist Lyra McKee in Derry, the recent planting of a bomb at the courthouse in Derry and the ongoing ATM robbery spree both sides of the Border have also forced us to ask hard questions. Chief among these is the capability of the PSNI and the Garda to cope given myriad threats. The best way to address such concerns and key to combating terrorist activity is the establishment and operation of a well-resourced and effective intelligence system. For without question it is apparent the majority of these crimes represent an intelligence failure. And the admission by the Garda authorities of being unaware of the disturbing paramilitary parade in O'Connell Street over Easter was a further illustration of an intelligence failure. While the words "intelligence" and "police-led, intelligence-led operations" are a frequently used expression, perhaps for many people the concept brings to mind top-secret, covert operations. In reality "intelligence" is just another word for information. The purpose of gathering police intelligence is to identify individuals or groups of individuals who are suspected of planning or about to execute criminal acts and to formulate a plan to prevent their activities. Good operational intelligence is essential for police to make the best use of human resources, otherwise the police will be reliant on saturation policing involving hit-and-miss encounters, which is effective in the short term but does not offer a long-term solution. While specialist armed patrols will combat terrorist and gangland crime in the short run, it should be only one element in a strategic co-ordinated policing plan involving surveillance, use of technology including phone monitoring, use of CCTV and the most vital of all which is intelligence, often labelled the life blood of effective policing. But how is good policing intelligence obtained and developed? The first step is the establishment of a well-resourced and trained intelligence unit specifically dealing with crime and terrorism. A highly successful unit dealing with subversive crime operates at the Special Detective Branch, as evidenced by the fact 94pc of cases awaiting trial in the Special Criminal Court are subversive-related cases. So the template is there. There are a number of different methods in building up an effective intelligence system, but the two systems favoured by police forces are namely high-grade information obtained from a few select informers and undercover agents and a host of information gleaned from a large number of sources such as sightings, Garda surveillance assistance from members of the public, use of technology and other little bits of information. But it is rare that any information will be such that it will put a crime on a plate or enable gardai to act immediately. It must be developed into contact information and this is the tricky part requiring expertise and skill. As an FBI colleague of mine used to remark "the cow can turn grass into milk, but it takes a further process to turn the milk into butter". It has been found that many intelligence failures were due to the fact that someone somewhere had information but it was never passed on to the appropriate units. This was highlighted in Brussels by the fact Salah Abdeslam was able to remain on the run for over four months in and around Brussels despite reports of a number of tip-offs which were never acted on. Therefore the analysing, co-ordinating and disseminating of intelligence is vital. For it to be effective, the intelligence operation consists of a number of constituent elements - planning, collection of the information, analysis and production of the intelligence, and finally the dissemination of the product. And all this operation should be conducted under the command of one single agency accountable to a police commissioner. Of course, the measures outlined will require significant investment by the state. A professional intelligence system requires constant training and development, together with significant resources both human and technical. An intelligence service must be fit for purpose, otherwise it's too late when an outrage occurs. And the cost is immeasurable. Our new Garda Commissioner Drew Harris is only too aware of this. Given the resources, both human and technical, he without doubt has the expertise and ability to implement an effective plan. Michael Carty is a retired chief superintendent in An Garda Siochana. A former head of the ERU, he was personal assistant to commissioner Pat Byrne and served overseas as a police Adviser in the UN German satirist Georg Christoph Lichtenberg mused: "If countries were named after the words you first hear when you go there, England would have to be called 'Damn it'." By such a rule, Ireland would probably be called 'Feck it' or something worse. And after being at each other's throats for more than 850 years, it's fair to say our two islands have had their differences. That said, the relationship is a special one; even if it has not been especially good of late. If Brexit has set us at odds, real bonds built of blood, family and friendship will not be forgotten. These unique ties were to the fore once more yesterday when the Irish and British governments signed a deal to guarantee that rights offered by the Common Travel Area (CTA) will continue when the UK exits the EU. The value of what is known as the memorandum of understanding between Dublin and London is incalculable. It secures the free movement of people between Ireland and Britain, and also grants access to social security, health and education. The arrangement goes back to the 1920s. Its preservation was the product of two years of painstaking work by Government departments. And its value can be seen in that, even should the UK leave without a deal, reciprocal rights between the two islands will still stand. In recent months, the focus had understandably been on looking towards fresh opportunities and building alliances, both in the EU and the US. Our reliance on the EU has been well rehearsed, as have our economic links with the US. Our globalised economy is dependent on investment by US multinationals. Some 700 US companies have investment here. But managing and building on our relationship with the UK is also enormously important. The UK was the Republic's biggest import market in 2017. Last year's figures, published by the Central Statistics Office (CSO), show the UK accounted for 24pc, or 19bn worth of food, fuel and other merchandise imported into the State last year. This was nearly 3bn more than the value of Irish exports to the UK. It is to be hoped the talks between the British government and Labour aimed at reaching a compromise that would enable the Withdrawal Agreement to be ratified can be successful. The signing of yesterday's memorandum effectively gives Irish citizens elevated status among EU nationals living in the UK, and also protects the rights of UK citizens here. There is little doubt a chain of difficult events has challenged progress made in our relations since the signing of the Good Friday Agreement. Perhaps there has been too much buy-in to the William Burroughs view of the UK as: "Ingloriously foundering in the backlash and bad karma of empire." This would be wrong. We need to build on the future. We have far too much mutually in common not to work together, as the signing of this agreement demonstrates. Prince Harry's girlfriend Meghan Markle (right) is pictured with her mother Doria Ragland during the Invictus Games Closing Ceremony Air Canada Centre in Toronto, Canada Meghan Markle and her mother, Doria Ragland, arriving at Cliveden House Hotel on the National Trust's Cliveden Estate to spend the night before her wedding to Prince Harry. Steve Parsons/Pool via REUTERS Meghan Markle rides in a car accompanied by her mother, Ms Doria Ragland, along the Long Walk, ahead of her wedding to Prince Harry at St George's Chapel at Windsor Castle. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday May 19, 2018. See PA story ROYAL Wedding. Photo credit should read: Aaron Chown/PA Wire Meghan Markle and her mother, Doria Ragland, arriving at Cliveden House Hotel on the National Trust's Cliveden Estate to spend the night before her wedding to Prince Harry. Steve Parsons/Pool via REUTERS Meghan Markle and her mother, Doria Ragland, arriving at Cliveden House Hotel on the National Trust's Cliveden Estate to spend the night before her wedding to Prince Harry. Steve Parsons/Pool via REUTERS (Left-right) Doria Ragland, mother of the bride, the Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall walk down the steps of St George's Chapel in Windsor Castle after the wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday May 19, 2018. See PA story ROYAL Wedding. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire The Prince of Wales and Doria Ragland, mother of the bride, depart from St George's Chapel in Windsor Castle after the wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle Meghan Markle glances back towards her mother, Doria Ragland, as she leaves St George's Chapel, Windsor Castle with Prince Harry following their wedding. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday May 19, 2018. See PA story ROYAL Wedding. Photo credit should read: Danny Lawson/PA Wire Doria Ragland, the Prince of Wales, the Duchess of Cornwall, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge with Prince George and Princess Charlotte leave St George's Chapel in Windsor Castle after the wedding. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday May 19, 2018. See PA story ROYAL Wedding. Photo credit should read: Andrew Matthews/PA Wire Harry and Meghan (centre) are pictured surrounded by beaming page boys and bridesmaids and (back row, left to right) Camilla, the Duchess of Cornwall; Prince Charles; Meghans mother, Doria Ragland; Prince William; (middle row, left-right) Prince Philip; Queen Elizabeth II; Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge; Princess Charlotte and Prince George. Photo: Alexi Lubomirski/PA Wire Britain's Prince Harry, and Doria Ragland listen to Meghan, Duchess of Sussex speaking at the launch of a cookbook with recipes from a group of women affected by the Grenfell Tower fire at Kensington Palace in London Ben Stansall/Pool via Reuters Embraced: Meghan Markle and Prince Harry with her mother, Doria Ragland, (left) at the launch of the cookbook. Photo: PA Meghan Markle, accompanied by Prince Harry, and her mother, Doria Ragland , welcomes the women behind the cookbook she has championed to Kensington Palace in London Photo: Ben Stansall/PA Wire The Duchess of Sussexs mother Doria Ragland, seated on her own at the royal wedding (Dominic Lipinski/PA) Meghan Markles mother Doria Ragland has been an essential part of royal watch culture for more than a year now. As her daughter, now Britains Duchess of Sussex, wed Prince Harry last May in Windsor Castle, she arrived solo and carried herself with a sense of confidence and grace which was universally praised. While the grooms family sat opposite her, filled with support from a neverending parade of siblings, cousins and aunts and uncles, she held her head high and observed lovingly as her daughter exchanged vows in one of the most talked about weddings in modern history. Prior to that moment, pictures of Doria were a valuable commodity. Meghan shared a few on her now-defunct Instagram page and there were the occasional paparazzi shots in which she would join her daughter when they were pictured en route to a yoga class during the early days of her romance with Harry. Expand Close Doria Ragland and daughter Meghan Markle from Meghan's former Instagram page / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Doria Ragland and daughter Meghan Markle from Meghan's former Instagram page But she made her first official appearance the same time her daughter did - at the Invictus Games in Toronto in 2017 - as she dutifully joined the couple when the worlds media first turned its gaze onto them. Earlier in the day, Meghan and Harry made their first appearance together and later, Doria joined them from the relative safety of public scrutiny in a private box for the closing ceremony. Its clear that for the big moments, Meghan always wants her mother by her side. And she has been given pride of place in the Sussexes new life as parents to baby Archie. She was overjoyed at the arrival of a baby boy on Monday, as per the Buckingham Palace official announcement, and featured in pictures released yesterday alongside Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip. It was also the first time in history that a British monarch was pictured alongside a royal baby's African-American grandmother. By comparison, the Middletons only featured in portraits alongside the queen at Kate and Williams 2011 wedding and later for christening images of Prince George and Princess Charlotte. Its not only reflective of a strong mother-daughter bond, but its imperative that Meghan has equal representation on her side of the family instead of being swallowed whole entirely by the British royals. Video of the Day Since her father Thomas Markle ousted himself from her inner circle by staging paparazzi shots before her wedding in exchange for payment, deciding not to attend her wedding two days before where he was due to walk her up the aisle and consistently selling stories about her in the press, Doria is her saving grace. In February, when Thomas shared private letters his daughter wrote him pleading with him to stop pandering to the tabloids and focus on rebuilding his relationship with her instead. His decision to publish them in the Daily Mail was the final nail in the coffin. For years, she spoke fondly of him, but the temptations of international fame eventually proved too difficult to resist - even at the cost of a lasting relationship with his youngest child. Expand Close The Duchess of Sussexs mother Doria Ragland, seated on her own at the royal wedding (Dominic Lipinski/PA) / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp The Duchess of Sussexs mother Doria Ragland, seated on her own at the royal wedding (Dominic Lipinski/PA) He rightfully did not receive credit in any official announcements made by the palace and although he released a gracious statement after his grandsons birth, he has essentially been washed from this moment in history and its questionable whether or not he will ever meet Archie. Harry still hasnt met him in person. Doria, from whom he divorced in 1988, understands the value of privacy and discretion. She has never said a word publicly about her daughter, only through official channels as expected. Sources have said she would never do anything to jeopardise her relationship with Meghan and seeks her blessing for anything that might result in headlines - such as a yoga session with Oprah last year. When it came to the wedding, Dorias name was considered as the potential replacement to walk her up the aisle after Thomas Sr backed out, but in the end they agreed it was too much pressure to put on her at the last minute. And similar to Harrys mother Princess Dianas inclusion of her sons in how fortunate they are, Doria would often educate Meghan on those less fortunate she was. At the age of 10, she took her to visit disadvantaged children in Rwanda, slums in Jamaica and poverty in Mexico. My mother raised me to be a global citizen, with eyes open to sometimes harsh realities, Meghan wrote previously on The Tig. Its of little surprise then that Meghan has carried these characteristics into her adulthood, which would eventually prove to be the catalyst for the spark that brought her and her husband together. Her sense of altruism also applied to her work. She has a BA in Psychology and received a Masters degree in social work from the University of Southern California in 2011. She spent most of her recent working years at the Didi Hirsch mental health clinic in Culver City, California. She is the very definition of a free spirit: the 62-year-old is a yoga instructor (she first introduced her daughter to the yogi lifestyle with mommy-and-me classes when the duchess was seven) who enjoys her quiet life in Los Angeles, in between jet-setting to the UK with unfettered palace access. For years, Meghan has proclaimed her unwavering affection and admiration for her mother, both in interviews and on her former blog The Tig, each description more charming than the last. Dreadlocks. Nose ring. Yoga instructor. Social worker. Free spirit. Lover of potato chips & lemon tarts. And if the DJ cues Al Greens soul classic Call Me, just forget it, Meghan wrote of her mother in 2014. Expand Close Meghan Markle and her mother, Doria Ragland, arriving at Cliveden House Hotel on the National Trust's Cliveden Estate to spend the night before her wedding to Prince Harry. Steve Parsons/Pool via REUTERS / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Meghan Markle and her mother, Doria Ragland, arriving at Cliveden House Hotel on the National Trust's Cliveden Estate to spend the night before her wedding to Prince Harry. Steve Parsons/Pool via REUTERS She will swivel her hips into the sweetest little dance youve ever seen, swaying her head and snapping her fingers to the beat like shes been dancing since the womb. And you will smile. You wont be able to help it. You will look at her and you will feel joy. In the same Mothers Day essay, she wrote of her mothers kindness when dealing with her grandmothers, or, more specifically, She was showing me how to be a daughter, not just in that moment, but for when I became that grown woman. It would seem the lessons in life have been successfully learned and Meghan is rewarding Doria with a return in the love and affection she showered on so many others. While Meghans circle tightened after she became a future duchess, her mother remained a constant: she helped plan the wedding and flew out last month to help with last minute preparations ahead of the birth of baby Archie. She even has her own room for long stays at Frogmore Cottage. Kate Middletons mother Carole famously moved in with her and Prince William in the weeks following Prince Georges birth in 2013, but there is a noted difference between both in-laws - geography. All the Middletons are all based in the UK and Kate has access to and endless support network in the form of her parents and siblings; while Meghan is essentially afloat in a foreign country (of which she is now a duchess) and has strained relations with most of her troublesome family. These visits and moments alongside her mother are important, not only for her at a very human level, but also a means to silence Meghans critics, who choose to focus on her lack of correspondence with some family members; who frankly no one would blame any other person for cutting off. Her half-sister Samantha is writing a book about princess pushy and regularly goes on rage-filled rants about her on social media referring to her as duchASS, her half-brother Thomas Jr was arrested twice in the last two years - once for holding a gun to his girlfriends head in 2017 and in January of this year for driving under the influence. Her nephew Tyler Dooley, who recently appeared on a royal-adjacent MTV reality show. He was involved in a fight with 20 others outside a bar in Oregon one day before Archies birth. The headlines around her family are rarely positive, except for the coverage around her saving grace Doria, who holds herself with equally regal manner as any of the royals who were literally taught how to carry themselves from birth. On social media and in royal-themed Facebook groups and Reddit threads, Doria is a universal peace bringer to the in-fighting around royal politics and personal preferences. She might not be an official member of the British royal family, but she remains an exciting addition to the narrative around her daughter's rise to fame - and her new role as grandmother to little Master Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor. Ruth Negga attends The 2019 Met Gala Celebrating Camp: Notes on Fashion at Metropolitan Museum of Art on May 06, 2019 in New York City. (Photo by Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images for The Met Museum/Vogue) Nicolas Ghesquiere and Ruth Negga attend the Louis Vuitton Cruise 2020 Fashion Show at JFK Airport on May 08, 2019 in New York City. (Photo by Nicholas Hunt/Getty Images for Louis Vuitton) Nicolas Ghesquiere and Ruth Negga attend the Louis Vuitton Cruise 2020 Fashion Show at JFK Airport on May 08, 2019 in New York City. (Photo by Nicholas Hunt/Getty Images for Louis Vuitton) Irish actress Ruth Negga is in the middle of an exceptionally fashion-centric week. The Oscar-nominated star was one of the best dressed guests at Monday night's Met Gala, the most exclusive night in the world's fashion calendar, as a guest of Louis Vuitton. Negga has been a brand ambassador for the French fashion house for more than two years, since shooting to global prominence in 2016's Loving and shooting to the top of best dressed lists in the process. She joined other Irish women of equally impressive calibre like three-time Oscar nominee Saoirse Ronan and British Vogue contributing editor Sinead Burke (both in Gucci) for the annual celebration of the first Monday in May at the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Costume Institute. Although it was a night mainly focused on Katy Perry dressed as a chandelier, Zendaya's Cinderella transformation and Lady Gaga's jaw-dropping four outfit changes; Ruth's glittering black trousers and gold headpiece made for a more low-key version of the event's camp theme. Fresh from filming Brad Pitt's astronaut sci-fi thriller, she is currently spending time in New York and continued her support of her fiercest fashion supporter by attending the Louis Vuitton Cruise Collection 2020 Fashion Show held at the TWA Flight Centre at JFK Airport on Wednesday night. She and the brand's creative director Nicolas Ghesquiere happily posed together outside the show, which was held in Manhattan for the first time in years. Expand Close Ruth Negga attends The 2019 Met Gala Celebrating Camp: Notes on Fashion at Metropolitan Museum of Art on May 06, 2019 in New York City. (Photo by Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images for The Met Museum/Vogue) / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Ruth Negga attends The 2019 Met Gala Celebrating Camp: Notes on Fashion at Metropolitan Museum of Art on May 06, 2019 in New York City. (Photo by Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images for The Met Museum/Vogue) The terminal has been vacant since 2001 and it's expected to open its doors as the TWA Hotel later this year with more than 500 guest rooms and an observation deck of 10,000 feet. She was among the prestigious guestlist of LV muses and impressive talent including Cate Blanchett, Emma Stone, Alicia Vikander, Michelle Williams and Justin Theroux. Sophie Turner and new husband Joe Jonas also attended. They also all featured in the brand's Cruise Collection 2020 lookbook, handpicked for their strength and style. These women embrace the various personalities that embody fashion at Louis Vuitton. Be they stars or new faces, all of them share the same willpower and confidence in their choices, and at the same time, reflect the eclecticism of the female identity, Ghesquiere said in a statement. A cruise - or resort - collection is a mid-season offering from high-end labels which features ready-to-wear clothing to cater to those who head for the sun in the colder months. A Lottery winner who commissioned a replica of Windsor Castle so her dog, Archie, could enjoy last years Royal Wedding is wondering whether her pampered dog was an inspiration for Harry and Meghans name choice. Susan Crossland, 54, spent more than 5,000 having a 2m high, hand-painted version of the castle built for her 11-year-old Lhasa Apso, complete with red carpet, throne and hot tub. And Archie watched the royal nuptials dressed in his tuxedo and top hat, sitting in his velvet-lined castle. Now Mrs Crossland says she and her husband, Michael, are overjoyed to hear Harry and Meghan have chosen the name Archie for their new son. Who knows, maybe Meghan got some inspiration from my special pooch?Susan Crossland She said: I was absolutely buzzing when I heard the news about the baby. Michael and I just love the royals so we we were over the moon when we heard he was called Archie. Who knows, maybe Meghan got some inspiration from my special pooch? Mrs Crossland said: Ive had lots of messages from people telling me about the baby. Today Ive feel like a bit of a royal myself with my very own baby prince. I hope one day my Archie will be lucky enough to meet the new royal. Mr and Mrs Crossland, from Mirfield, West Yorkshire, won 1.2 million on Lotto in 2008. Mr Crossland commissioned specialist sculptor and set designers The Russell Beck Studio, from south London, to create Archies Pet Pooch Palace. The structure took a seven-strong team 244 hours to complete, weighs 155kg, used more than 15 litres of paint and is based on the King George IV Gate at Windsor Castle. After the wedding Mr and Mrs Crossland donated the structure to Battersea Dogs and Cats Homes centre in Windsor. When she won the lottery 10 years ago, Mrs Crossland described how she had taken on her fathers line of numbers after his death and won with that sequence on the anniversary of his death. She said she believed it was heaven sent, her father wanting her to look after her two sisters and brother who all have learning difficulties. Mrs Crossland said the siblings were to be split up after the death of her parents but her good fortune has meant she has been able to care for them all in her purpose built home. The outgoing boss of BandQ owner Kingfisher has seen her total pay package grow to 1.8 million (Paul Faith/PA) The outgoing boss of B&Q owner Kingfisher has seen her total pay package swell to 1.8 million thanks to a hefty salary hike and bonus awards despite plunging profits. Kingfishers annual report revealed that chief executive Veronique Laurys overall pay rose 11% in the year to January 31 thanks to a 30,800 salary hike, 522,000 annual cash award and 333,700 in long-term bonus shares. This comes despite a painful set of full-year figures in March revealed a 52.8% plunge in annual pre-tax profits to 322 million, when the group also revealed it was kicking off the search for Ms Laurys successor. Expand Close Kingfisher has started the hunt for a successor to under-fire boss Veronique Laury (Charles Best/Kingfisher/PA) / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Kingfisher has started the hunt for a successor to under-fire boss Veronique Laury (Charles Best/Kingfisher/PA) Kingfisher has not yet set a departure date for its under-fire chief executive, who will remain in post until a successor is appointed. The annual report showed Ms Laurys salary was hiked by 4% to 800,900, while chief financial officer Karen Witts received a 5% pay rise to 615,800. Kingfishers remuneration committee said the salary hike was in line with a previously disclosed aim to move the salary of the CEO toward the market median. It added that the decision also followed continued strong performance from both the CEO and CFO, and delivery of transformation objectives. The committee also said it awarded 82% of the maximum annual bonus payable in view of the performance against the strategic milestones as set out above and a holistic view of business performance. But it comes as Ms Laury has faced increasing pressure after the group has suffered declining profits and sales despite her efforts under a five-year transformation plan launched in 2016. The groups recent full-year results showed B&Q sales dropped 3% on a like-for-like basis over the year, while Screwfix remained the star performer with a 4.1% rise in comparable sales. The group also signalled it was moving away from its original plans for its overhaul to give a 500 million financial boost, as it said trading had been far tougher than it imagined. It added it was considering axing another 15 stores group-wide over the next two years, on top of plans to shut all 19 Screwfix outlets in Germany, leaving it with just an online presence for the brand in that country. B&Qs turnaround has already seen Kingfisher shut 65 shops and slash around 3,000 jobs in the UK and Ireland. It has also been shaking up its ranges and improving its online offering, while the group announced it was investing 100 million as part of plans to lower everyday prices. Kingfisher has nearly 24,600 staff in the UK and Ireland and more than 61,500 overall. China will retaliate if US president Donald Trump goes ahead with more tariff hikes in a fight over technology and trade, ratcheting up tensions ahead of negotiations in Washington. Beijing said it would be forced to take "necessary countermeasures" if the increases go ahead on Friday as planned, the Commerce Ministry said. China has given no details of possible penalties. Mr Trump threw global financial markets into turmoil with his surprise threat on Sunday to raise import duties on 200 billion dollars (178bn) of Chinese goods from 10pc to 25pc. He complained talks were moving too slowly and Beijing was trying to backtrack on earlier agreements. "China deeply regrets that if the US tariff measures are carried out, China will have to take necessary countermeasures," said a Commerce Ministry statement. Mr Trump has raised import duties on 250 billion dollars (223bn ) of Chinese goods starting last July over complaints Beijing steals or pressures companies to hand over technology. The negotiations also include complaints about China's trade surpluses and plans for government-led creation of global competitors in robotics and other fields. Washington, Europe, Japan and other trading partners say those violate Beijing's market-opening commitments. Beijing responded with penalties on 110 billion dollars (85 billion) of American imports, but is running out of goods for penalties due to their lopsided trade. Chinese authorities already have extended retaliation beyond imports by targeting operations of American companies in China. Regulators have slowed down customs clearance for their shipments and delayed issuing licences in finance and other industries. Alleged serial rapist Joseph McCann could be visited by a senior judge in jail after he refused to appear in court for a second day. Chief Magistrate Emma Arbuthnot authorised the use of force to bring the 34-year-old before her by videolink from Belmarsh prison after he refused to leave the cells at Westminster Magistrates' Court on Wednesday. But prosecutor Tetteh Turkson said on Thursday McCann was "not being cooperative" and Ms Arbuthnot said "there are negotiations going on" to ensure he appears by videolink later. The senior district judge added: "If the worst comes to the worst, I will have to go to Belmarsh and the prosecution and defence will come too." McCann, from Aylesbury in Buckinghamshire, has been charged with 12 offences, including five rapes. He was arrested near Congleton, in Cheshire, in the early hours of Monday, just over two weeks after he is alleged to have abducted a woman in her 20s in Watford in the early hours of Sunday April 21 before raping her in a residential property. He is charged with kidnap and rape over the alleged attack. McCann is further charged with two kidnappings, four counts of rape, one count of false imprisonment, two counts of causing a female to engage in sexual activity and one count of assaulting a female by penetration in London between April 24 and April 27. The charges relate to two women, who are in their 20s, who were separately snatched off the street in Chingford and Edgware, in London, before being raped in a car. Nine more charges are expected to be added to the indictment. Alleged serial rapist Joseph McCann is to be forced to appear in court after refusing to attend a hearing on Wednesday. Chief Magistrate Emma Arbuthnot authorised the use of force to bring him before her by videolink from Belmarsh prison. McCann (34) was due to appear at Westminster Magistrates' Court on Wednesday but refused to come up from the cells. Security was so tight six uniformed officers had been placed on guard outside the courtroom. McCann, from Aylesbury, in Buckinghamshire, has been charged with 12 offences, including five rapes. He was arrested near Congleton, in Cheshire, in the early hours of Monday, just over two weeks after he is alleged to have abducted a woman in her 20s in Watford in the early hours of Sunday April 21 before raping her in a residential property. He is charged with kidnap and rape over the alleged attack. McCann is further charged with two kidnappings, four counts of rape, one count of false imprisonment, two counts of causing a female to engage in sexual activity and one count of assaulting a female by penetration in London between April 24 and April 27. The charges relate to two women, who are in their 20s, who were separately snatched off the street in Chingford and Edgware, in London, before being raped in a car. An investigation by Scotland Yard's Homicide and Major Crime Command is continuing and the Metropolitan Police said a file remains with the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) in relation to further alleged offences. Keith Flint was found hanged at his Essex home in March. Photo: PA A coroner has found insufficient evidence to conclude The Prodigy singer Keith Flint intended to take his own life. The inquest previously concluded the 49-year-old, who was found dead at his Essex home on March 4, died as the result of hanging. The latest hearing added he had unspecified amounts of cocaine, alcohol and codeine in his system. Coroner Caroline Beasley- Murray recorded an open conclusion and said: "We will never quite know what was going on in his mind". Ms Beasley-Murray said there were no suspicious circumstances or third-party involvement, but she could not conclude he took his own life. She explained: "Having regard to all the circumstances I don't find that there's enough evidence for that." She also found insufficient evidence it was an accident, where he may have been "larking around and it all went horribly wrong". Satan: The main churches will meet to trade tips on casting out demons. Stock Image It sounds like the start of a joke - a Catholic, a Lutheran and a Protestant walk into a room to talk about the devil - but a conference on exorcisms this week in Rome will be no laughing matter. For the first time, representatives of the main Christian faiths will come together to trade tips on casting out demons and combating the malign influence of Satan. The meeting will be the culmination of a week-long training course for exorcists which began on Monday at a Vatican-affiliated university, the Ateneo Pontificio Regina Apostolorum. The dark art of performing exorcisms may seem archaic, even absurd, to non-believers, but the Catholic Church insists that the presence of the devil is growing all the time, due to the increasing secularisation of society, loss of faith in God and the easy access provided by the internet to black magic and the occult. The meeting will bring together clergy from the Catholic, Anglican, Lutheran, Greek Orthodox and Pentecostal churches. "This is the first time that different denominations have come together to compare their experiences on exorcisms," said Pedro Barrajon, a Spanish priest and professor of theology who is one of the meeting's organisers. "The idea is to... establish best practices, if you will. The Catholic Church is most associated with exorcisms because of films like 'The Exorcist' and 'The Rite', but we are not the only church that performs them. Expelling the devil goes back to the earliest origins of the Christian church." When it comes to battling Beelzebub, there are key differences of approach between the denominations. "The Catholic rite is very structured, whereas some of the other churches are more creative," said Fr Barrajon (61), who claims to have witnessed several exorcisms. Benjamin McEntire, a Protestant priest from Alaska, was one of the 240 clergy from five continents attending the conference. "I'm here to understand the Catholic perspective. We are fighting the same enemy in the name of the Lord," he said. Atheists and agnostics may scoff at the idea of people being possessed by demons, but the Catholic organisers of the conference insist the phenomenon is real. Just as in horror movies and novels, victims really do speak in strange tongues and vomit objects such as nails and shards of glass, they claim. "One of the signs of demonic possession is that people speak in languages that they do not know, such as Latin and Hebrew," said Fr Barrajon. "They have supernatural strength and a strong aversion to priests and to sacred objects." The Catholic Church concedes that the majority of people who say they are possessed are in fact suffering from psychological illnesses and should seek help from medical professionals. But there is a minority that really are in the clutches of Satan, they claim. The rite of exorcism consists of prayers and then attempts by the exorcist priest to engage with the evil spirit inhabiting the victim's body. "It is a battle between the exorcist and the demon. In some cases the exorcism is successful after a few hours, in other cases it takes years," said Fr Barrajon. The week-long conference on exorcism, which is in its 14th year, is unique. Seminars to be held this week include 'Angels and Demons in the Sacred Scripture, The Historical Origins of the Rite of Exorcism' and 'The Symbology of Occult and Satanic Rituals'. "Young people are increasingly attracted to black magic, Satanism, vampirism and sorcery," said Giuseppe Ferrari, a professor of theology and organiser of the course. The Catholic Church's exorcists have found a firm ally for their cause in Pope Francis, who frequently makes references to the devil in his sermons and public addresses. Two years ago he said: "He is evil, he's not like mist. He's not a diffuse thing, he is a person. I'm convinced that one must never converse with Satan - if you do that, you'll be lost." INHFA says 'equal access and support' must be provided to all farmers willing to transition to organic farming Fifteen sheep have been enrolled at a French primary school after a class was set to close due to lack of pupils. Jules-Ferry in Crets en Belledonne, a village at the foot of the French Alps, was told one of its 11 classes would be closed after student numbers fell from 266 to 261. Local farmer Michel Girerd and his dog came to the school on Tuesday with around 50 of his sheep - and 15 of them were signed up. Parents, children and teachers watched on as sheep, with names such as "Baa-bete" and "Saute-Mouton", were added to the register. Mayor Jean-Louis Maret has officially recognised the schooling of the sheep. Gaelle Laval, one of the parents behind the move, said: "National education is unfortunately only numbers. And so now, with this surge in numbers, we are good. "We can go see the director of academy to assert our rights and save our class." Iran has said it is pulling out of "some commitments" made under its international nuclear deal, and will resume higher enrichment of uranium in 60 days unless a new agreement can be reached. President Hassan Rouhani said he had informed the world powers still backing the deal, as well as Russia. His announcement came in a live speech on the anniversary of Donald Trump's decision to pull the US out of the accord, which has since seen crippling sanctions reintroduced against Iran. In a televised speech, Mr Rouhani said that Iran would hold on to stockpiles of excess uranium and heavy water used in its nuclear reactors. He gave a 60-day deadline for new terms to the nuclear accord, after which Tehran would resume higher uranium enrichment. "We are ready to negotiate, within the boundaries of JCPOA," he said referring to the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action nuclear deal. "It is not us who has left the negotiation table." In November, the United States reimposed sanctions that have strangled Iran's oil and banking sectors as well as its foreign trade. The sanctions came after the Trump administration's decision to withdraw from the pact that Iran negotiated with world powers in 2015, and that curbed its nuclear programme in exchange for widespread sanctions relief. Mr Rouhani's speech coincided with the first anniversary of the US withdrawal and came amid heightened American economic and military pressure on Iran, including the deployment of an aircraft carrier to the Middle East that US officials say was in response to credible indications Tehran planned to attack US interests in the region. The measures announced by Mr Rouhani came after speculation that Iran would take a more provocative approach, including fully exiting the accord or moving immediately to higher uranium enrichment. It was unclear whether the less dramatic moves it adopted would prevent a further unravelling of the deal or forestall additional punitive measures by allies or adversaries. "Today, nothing would be worse than Iran, itself, leaving this accord," French Defence Minister Florence Parly told France's BFMTV yesterday. Asked whether Iran could face sanctions as a result of its decision, Ms Parly said: "Probably. That will be one of the things that will be examined." But she said that Europe remained committed to supporting the agreement. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who has been staunchly opposed to the Iranian nuclear deal since the outset and credits his own lobbying for triggering the Trump administration's withdrawal, referred to Mr Rouhani's announcement during a ceremony yesterday to mark Israel Memorial Day. "We will not allow Iran to acquire nuclear weapons," he said. "We will continue with the struggle against those who seek to destroy our lives." Israel's security establishment has been more mixed in its assessment of the advantages of retaining a deal and is concerned that Iran will accelerate its nuclear programme in the near future, Israel's Army Radio reported. The military believes that in the wake of US sanctions and international pressure on Iran, Tehran will be more assertive in the region and Israel is "braced" for Iranian aggression. The US has imposed sanctions on purchasers of Iranian oil and designated the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, a branch of the Iranian military, as a terrorist group. On Friday, the State Department announced new restrictions on Iran's civil nuclear programme, despite protests by European allies. There was no immediate reaction from the White House to the Iranian announcement. ( The Washington Post) Under fire: Attorney General William Barr faces being held in contempt of Congress. Photo: REUTERS A US House of Representatives panel was poised to vote to hold Attorney General William Barr in contempt for defying a congressional subpoena demanding the full, unredacted report by special counsel Robert Mueller. The House judiciary committee was set to vote on a resolution recommending the full House find Mr Barr in contempt of Congress. Panel staff and Justice Department officials were working behind the scenes in the hope of a deal to avert the proceedings. The fight over the complete report is just one battle amid a growing struggle between President Donald Trump and the Democrats investigating him, his business interests and administration, which seems to be destined for the courts, presenting political risks for both sides ahead of the 2020 presidential and congressional elections. The Justice Department had threatened to call on Mr Trump to invoke executive privilege to completely withhold the unredacted report from Congress if House Democrats pushed ahead. Committee chairman Jerrold Nadler blasted the department for abruptly breaking off "good faith negotiations" to invoke such privilege and said its legal arguments lacked "credibility, merit or legal or factual basis." "This kind of obstruction is dangerous," Mr Nadler said in a statement. He had earlier told reporters the panel would still meet as planned for the vote. Mr Barr released a redacted version of special counsel Robert Mueller's report on his 22-month investigation into Russian election meddling in the 2016 presidential campaign. Mr Nadler subpoenaed the full document and underlying evidence, saying the material was necessary for lawmakers to determine whether Mr Trump obstructed justice by trying to upend the Mueller probe. Mr Barr missed two subpoena deadlines for turning over the material, the latest on Monday. "We remain unanimously determined on our side of the aisle to get the unredacted report, as we've demanded," Representative Jamie Raskin, a Democrat on Mr Nadler's committee, told reporters. Representative Doug Collins, the panel's ranking Republican, criticised Mr Nadler in a statement for rejecting the Justice Department officials' "accommodations", and praised "the department's endurance". The redacted Mueller report details extensive contacts between Mr Trump's 2016 campaign and Moscow, but did not find there was a conspiracy between Moscow and the campaign. The report also describes actions Mr Trump took to try to impede Mr Mueller's investigation. On Tuesday, the Trump administration stymied a separate effort by House judiciary committee Democrats to subpoena records from former White House counsel Don McGahn, directing him not to provide the documents sought by the panel. Mr McGahn was a star witness in Mr Mueller's Russian investigation, as well as Mr Trump's subsequent attempts to impede the probe. Mr Mueller's report said Mr McGahn told investigators that Mr Trump unsuccessfully pressured him to remove Mr Mueller and then asked him to deny that Mr Trump had done so. The accounts are based partly on the documents which are being sought by House Democrats. The Trump administration has refused to cooperate with congressional investigations in at least a half-dozen instances, including Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin's decision on Monday to deny a request for Mr Trump's tax returns from the Democratic chairman of the House tax committee. But in a rare show of bipartisanship, Democrats and Republicans on the House intelligence committee pressed the Justice Department and the FBI, in an April 25 letter, to turn over an unredacted copy of the Mueller report and "all classified and unclassified" evidence relating to foreign spying or counter- intelligence. ( The Washington Post) President Donald Trump, who won the presidency in part on his image as a successful business mogul, lost $1.17bn over 10 years on failed business deals, according to tax records obtained by the 'New York Times'. The losses, in the 1980s and 1990s, were greater than those reported by nearly any other American taxpayer during that period, according to Internal Revenue Service (IRS) data the 'Times' said it had reviewed. In 1990 and 1991, according to the report, Mr Trump's loses of $250m a year were more than double those of the nearest taxpayer the IRS collected information on. After comparing Mr Trump's information with that of other "high-income earners", the 'Times' concluded that Mr Trump "appears to have lost more money than nearly any other individual American taxpayer". Because of his business losses, the newspaper reported, Mr Trump did not pay income taxes for eight of the 10 years. The House Ways and Means Committee has asked the IRS to provide Mr Trump's personal and business returns for 2013 through 2018. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin on Monday refused to do so, saying the panel's request "lacks a legitimate legislative purpose." Mr Trump claimed the report was "highly inaccurate". He tweeted that real estate developers during that period were "entitled to massive write-offs and depreciation" that would "show losses and tax losses in almost all cases". He tweeted that much of those losses were "non-monetary". Mr Trump said, "You always wanted to show losses for tax purposes" and "renegotiate with banks". Mr Trump called that "sport". He said the 'Times' story was based on "very old information" and a "highly inaccurate Fake News hit job!" Democrats in Congress have been battling for the release of the president's more recent returns, a clash that may likely end in court. Mr Trump sold himself to voters as a master deal-maker, who could bring the same success to the country as he did to his businesses. While he never personally filed for bankruptcy, his businesses sought bankruptcy protection four times. The 'Times' said it did not obtain the actual tax returns, but instead received Mr Trump's IRS tax transcripts that included figures from his federal 1040 tax form from someone who had legal access to it. The 'Times' said it was able to verify some of the figures by cross-referencing them to other documents it had obtained. The losses cover Mr Trump's taxes from 1985 to 1994. The losses began with $46.1m in 1985 from casinos, hotels and retail space, and grew year after year, the 'Times' reported. The returns also show how Mr Trump's primary sources of income changed each year from stock market earnings - in part from boosting stock prices by suggesting he would take over a company - to an unexplained $52.9m gain in interest income. Yet the income was offset each year by losses, which were so great that Mr Trump would have been able to avoid paying income taxes for eight of the 10 years. In a statement to the 'Times', Charles Harder, a lawyer for Mr Trump, said that the tax information was "demonstrably false" and that the paper's statements "about the president's tax returns and business from 30 years ago are highly inaccurate". In an additional statement to the 'Times', he said "IRS transcripts, particularly before the days of electronic filing, are notoriously inaccurate" and "would not be able to provide a reasonable picture of any taxpayer's return," the paper reported. The White House did not respond to a request for comment. On Monday, Mr Mnuchin refused to release Mr Trump's personal and business tax returns from the past six years, setting up what could become one of the biggest legal showdowns between the president and a Congress seeking to investigate him. Democrats, citing a section of the tax code from 1924, say the law is on their side. The law allows the chairmen of the House Ways and Means and Senate Finance committees and the Joint Committee on Taxation to request the tax returns of any taxpayer and that the Treasury secretary "shall" provide them. The 'Times' has previously reported on parts of Mr Trump's tax returns from his 1995 filings after receiving some of the pages in the mail. They showed that Mr Trump had reported a loss of $915.7m. Mr Trump's financial troubles over the period examined by the 'Times' have been well documented with his companies having sought bankruptcy protection in 1991, 1992, 2004 and 2009. ( Bloomberg) Police are seen outside STEM School Highlands Ranch, a charter middle school in the Denver suburb of Highlands Ranch, Colo. after a shooting on Tuesday. AP Photo/David Zalubowski One student died and eight classmates were injured on Tuesday in a shooting at a suburban Denver school, law enforcement authorities said, less than a month after the region marked the 20th anniversary of the Columbine massacre. Two suspects, both students at the school, are in custody, according to Douglas County officials. The Denver region has been on edge as the 20th anniversary of the Columbine High School massacre was memorialised, and deadly threats were called in to other Denver-area schools. The Columbine attack, in which two teenage gunmen killed 13 people, marked the beginning of a new era in the United States - a time when the threat of school shootings has taught a generation of children how to flee, hide and even fight back when faced with a gunman. In a message on social media on Tuesday night, the Douglas County Sheriff's Office wrote "with extreme sadness" that a student had been killed in the attack. Douglas County Coroner Jill Romann has not identified the student, according to the sheriff's department, but confirmed the victim was an 18-year-old male. Police said that the quick response of local officers who exchanged fire with and arrested the suspect, "helped save lives". At the University of North Carolina in Charlotte last week, a student tackled a gunman who opened fire on a classroom, police said, killing two and injuring four others. North Korea has fired two suspected short-range missiles from the west of the country, according to South Koreas military. It is the Norths second weapons launch in the last five days and a possible warning that nuclear disarmament talks with Washington could be in danger. The Souths Joint Chiefs of Staff said that the weapons fired flew 260 miles and 167 miles respectively. It said it is working with the United States to find out more details, such as the type of weapons the North fired. The Souths military said earlier at least one projectile was launched from the Sino-ri area of North Pyongan Province, an area known to host one of North Koreas oldest missile bases where a brigade operates mid-range Rodong missiles. Expand Close TV footage of missiles showing at Seoul Railway Station (Ahn Young-joon/AP) / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp TV footage of missiles showing at Seoul Railway Station (Ahn Young-joon/AP) It said later the launch was made from the provinces Kusong town, about 25 miles from Sino-ri, where the North conducted its first successful flight test of the Hwasong-12 intermediate range missile in May 2017. The launch comes as the US special representative for North Korea, Stephen Biegun, visits South Korea, and hours after the North described its firing of rocket artillery and an apparent short-range ballistic missile on Saturday as a regular and defensive military exercise. The North also ridiculed South Korea for criticising those launches. South Koreas presidential national security director, Chung Eui-yong, has been monitoring the situation while communicating with the defence ministry and the Joint Chiefs of Staff. Some analysts have said that if the North returns to testing the kind of longer-range banned ballistic weapons that it fired in unusually large numbers in 2017 when many feared a Washington-Pyongyang stand-off could end in war it may signal that a frustrated North Korea is turning away from diplomacy. The tensions in 2017 were followed by a surprising diplomatic outreach by North Korean leader Kim Jong Un in 2018, when he attended summits with the South Korean and Chinese presidents and with US President Donald Trump. But North Korea has not gotten what it wants most from the summits: Sanctions relief. A summit earlier this year between Mr Trump and Mr Kim ended in failure, with the United States not believing that North Korea was offering enough disarmament steps to agree to the widespread sanctions relief the North wants. Just ahead of the Thursday launch, senior defence officials from South Korea, the United States and Japan met in Seoul to discuss North Koreas launches on Saturday and other security issues. Expand Close People watch a television showing file footage of a North Korean missile launch (Ahn Young-joon/AP) / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp People watch a television showing file footage of a North Korean missile launch (Ahn Young-joon/AP) Experts who analysed photos from North Korean state media say it is clear the North on Saturday tested a new solid-fuel missile that appears to be modelled after Russias Iskander short-range ballistic missile system. With the consecutive weapons launches, North Korea is pressuring South Korea to diverge from the United States to support the Norths position more strongly, said Du Hyeogn Cha, a visiting scholar at Seouls Asan Institute for Policy Studies. Following the collapse of the Trump-Kim meeting, the North had demanded the South proceed with inter-Korean economic projects held back by US-led sanctions against the North. By firing weapons that directly threaten the South but not the US mainland or its Pacific territories, the North also appears to be testing how far Washington would tolerate its actions without actually causing the negotiations to collapse, Mr Cha said. To the United States, the North is saying dont push me into a corner. To South Korea, the North is saying the inter-Korean peace agreements could become nothing if Seoul fails to coax major concessions from the United States on behalf of the North, he said. South Korean and US officials have described what North Korea fired on Saturday as projectiles, a broader term that include both missiles and artillery pieces. This could be an effort to keep diplomacy alive as UN sanctions bar the North from engaging in any ballistic activity. Some observers say the North could fire more missiles, including those of a medium range, to up the pressure on the United States. Mr Cha said North Korea is unlikely to fire longer-range missiles unless it intends to abandon diplomacy for good as it is certain to invite fresh UN sanctions. North Korea last conducted a major missile test in November 2017. Mr Kim, in a new years speech, said he hopes to continue his nuclear summits with Mr Trump, but also that he would seek a new way if the United States persists with sanctions and pressure against the North. Following the collapse of his second summit with Mr Trump in February, Mr Kim said he is open to a third meeting, but set the years end as a deadline for Washington to offer mutually acceptable terms for an agreement. Later, the Trump administration announced it had seized a North Korean cargo ship that US officials claim was used to transport coal in violation of international sanctions. The Justice Department announced the seizure of the Wise Honest. The ship was detained by Indonesia last month with two dozen crew members on board. US officials said payments for maintenance and equipment for the ship were made unwittingly in American dollars through US banks. North Korea has described the firing of rocket artillery and an apparent short-range ballistic missile as a regular and defensive military exercise. Pyongyang said criticism from South Korea about the launch was a "cock-and-bull story". The statement comes hours before senior defence officials from South Korea, United States and Japan met in Seoul to discuss the North Korean launches and other security issues. A separate statement by a North Korean foreign ministry spokesman described the launches as a "routine and self-defensive military drill". South Korea's presidential Blue House and Defence Ministry have raised concern that Saturday's launches went against the spirit of an inter-Korean military agreement reached last year to cease all hostile activities. It urged North Korea to refrain from acts that could escalate tensions. North Korean state media on Sunday showed leader Kim Jong Un observing live-fire drills of long-range multiple rocket launchers and what appeared to be a new short-range ballistic missile fired from a launch vehicle. A day earlier, South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff said it detected North Korea firing multiple projectiles toward the sea from near the eastern town of Wonsan. The launches, which likely represented North Korea's first ballistic missile launch in more than 500 days, were clearly a sign of Pyongyang's frustration at stalled diplomatic talks with Washington meant to provide coveted sanctions relief in return for nuclear disarmament. They also highlighted the fragility of the detente between the Koreas, which in a military agreement reached last September vowed to completely cease "all hostile acts" against each other in land, air and sea. The North Korean statements implied that Saturday's weapons launches counter joint military drills conducted by the United States and South Korea in March and April. The North also criticised the test of a US Minuteman intercontinental ballistic missile from a US Air Force base in California last week. While the United States and South Korea have stopped their annual large-scale military exercises and replaced them with smaller exercises since last year to create room for diplomacy, the North has still criticised the South for continuing joint drills with the United States. The statement by the North Korean military spokesman said the South's military has "no qualification" to vilify the North when they "staged a provocative combined air drill against the sovereign state together with the US" and kept silent about the Minuteman test that it said was meant to threaten the North. Notre Dames melted roof has left very high lead levels in the plaza outside the cathedral and in adjacent roads. Police in Paris said lead levels were found to be between 32 and 65 times the recommended limit by French health authorities. The areas closest to the cathedral are currently closed. Expand Close A fire destroyed parts of Notre Dame (Gareth Fuller/PA) / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp A fire destroyed parts of Notre Dame (Gareth Fuller/PA) Police said the main danger is lead dust that could coat surfaces of nearby homes and businesses. To avoid lead poisoning, authorities have recommended a good cleaning with a damp cloth, and that pregnant women and children should wash their hands frequently. Hundreds of tons of lead were used in Notre Dames frame, as well as the church spire that burned and collapsed. Russian President Vladimir Putin has told the annual Victory Day parade in Red Square that the country will continue to strengthen its armed forces. The military parade marked the 74th anniversary of the defeat of Nazi Germany. It included about 13,000 troops and 130 pieces of military equipment, ranging from a T-34 tank renowned for its effectiveness in the Second World War to missile launch units. Expand Close Russian President Vladimir Putin shakes hands with veterans (Pavel Golovkin/AP) / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Russian President Vladimir Putin shakes hands with veterans (Pavel Golovkin/AP) Mr Putin said in his speech that we have done and will do everything necessary to ensure the high combat capability of our armed forces. He added: At the same time, Russia is open for cooperation with all who are ready to resist terrorism, neo-Nazism and extremism. Dozens of other cities also held parades for Russias most significant secular holiday. Expand Close Russian troops take part in the parade (Alexander Zemlianichenko/AP) / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Russian troops take part in the parade (Alexander Zemlianichenko/AP) In Ukraine, which also observes the holiday, outgoing president Petro Poroshenko hit out at Russia. For five years, the descendants of the glorious victors over Nazism have defended with arms the freedom of the Ukrainian people and their civilisation choice from Russian aggression, Mr Poroshenko said in a statement. Russia annexed Crimea from Ukraine in 2014 and backs separatist rebels who have been fighting Ukrainian forces in the countrys east for the past five years. A school pupil has told how he and two fellow students leapt up from their desks to tackle a gunman in a US school with no thought for their own safety after they spotted the gun. They slammed a teenage classmate against a wall and struggled with him when shots rang out, then one of the three, Kendrick Castillo, who led the charge, slumped to the ground. His close friend Brendan Bialy wrestled the gun away and called out to Mr Castillo, but there was no response, Mr Bialy told a roomful of reporters as he recalled what happened at STEM School Highlands Ranch in Colorado. Expand Close Brendan Bialy addresses reporters (David Zalubowski/AP) / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Brendan Bialy addresses reporters (David Zalubowski/AP) Kendrick went out as a hero, Mr Bialy said. He was a foot away from the shooter and instead of running the opposite direction he ran toward it. Authorities said the actions of Mr Castillo, Mr Bialy and Joshua Jones minimised the bloodshed from Tuesdays attack at the school south of Denver that wounded eight students along with killing 18-year-old Mr Castillo. The injured includes Mr Jones, who was shot twice, according to a statement released by his family. STEM School Shooting Press Conference https://t.co/fQfz1B3S5Z DC Sheriff (@dcsheriff) May 8, 2019 Mr Bialy acknowledged that he was scared, but he said he was not going to cower for attackers he repeatedly called cowards. They lost, he said. They completely and utterly lost to good people. He was speaking as two teenagers made their first court appearances in connection with the shooting. Devon Erickson (18) kept his head down with his black hair, streaked with purple dye, covering his face as he nodded in response to most of District Court Judge Theresa Slades questions. At one point, the judge requested a verbal answer to whether he had any questions about the proceedings. Erickson simply replied No. Expand Close Devon Erickson in court (Joe Amon/Denver Post/AP) / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Devon Erickson in court (Joe Amon/Denver Post/AP) Maya McKinney (16) whose lawyer said uses male pronouns and the name Alec, and has short brown hair, made eye contact with the judge and answered questions in a clear but quiet voice, saying Yes, your honour and No, your honour. District attorney George Brauchler said he has not decided whether to file adult charges but added that McKinney is old enough to be charged as an adult without a judges review. Formal charges are expected to be filed by Friday. Mr Brauchler said he could not discuss any motive or weapons used in the attack. Both suspects were students at the school, and they were not previously known to authorities, officials said. Because the attack happened a few miles from Columbine High School, just weeks after the shootings 20th anniversary, questions quickly arose about whether it was inspired by the 1999 massacre, but investigators offered no immediate motive. A member of the schools robotics club and a relentless tinkerer, Mr Castillo had an infectious smile and gentle sense of humour, according to friends. He worked part-time at a local manufacturing company that had offered him a job after an internship because he was such a standout employee. To find he went down as a hero, Im not surprised. Thats exactly who Kendrick was, said Rachel Short, president of the company, Baccara. The Greater Charlotte Automobile Dealers Association (GCADA) celebrates the 25th year of supporting education by recognizing regional educators and announcing their annual Bill Beck Scholarship winners for 2019. The five Bill Beck Scholarship winners for 2019 are: Ashley Bartolac (Mooresville, NC) Ethan Briggs (Concord, NC) Clayton Pearson (Gastonia, NC) Anna Crenshaw (Gastonia, NC) Taylor Shaw (Harrisburg, NC) Each recipient receives a $5000 scholarship (GCADA provides $1000 annually and is renewable for up to five years of their education). To date, GCADA has donated over $500,000 in scholarship funding within our region. In addition to the scholarship announcements, GCADA is presenting 17 district teacher of the year recipients in the month of May with $600 American Express gift cards. Since 1997, GCADA has contributed over $200,000 in gifts to area teachers. About the Greater Charlotte Dealers Association It just goes to show you can put yourself in a bad position real quick. Its unfortunate and got way out of hand for what we think was going on at the time, Auten said. One mistake can just be horrible. Auten said it doesnt appear that Rosas and Earley knew each other prior to the meeting. The sheriff said he spoke to Earleys family after learning of his death. We met with them at length, obviously distraught. Nobody wants to bury their child, much less a 19-year-old young man who still had a lot of life, Auten said. This is terrible for both sides. The Earley family is going to be without their child forever and the Rosas family is going to have to deal with their child being in prison, more than likely. Its two families ruined. I am part of a group of students from Mecklenburg and Gaston counties concerned about the School Security act of 2019 proposed in the N.C. Senate. It would allocate $9.3 million to encourage teachers to carry concealed weapons, train them, and give pay raises to those who carry guns in the classroom. We found a lack of student input in the bill's formation, so we surveyed students at 11 schools about their views. After multiple attempts, we were only able to secure a meeting with one of seven N.C. senators. Senators need to be more available and willing to communicate with students because a democracy should include everyone's voice. This process showed us that politicians do not value the voices of the students, even when they are most affected. Grace Towler Charlotte Are the Poarch Band of Creek Indians the next target of President Donald Trump and his terrifying tweets? A news outlet that has repeatedly railed against the tribe sure seems to thinks so. According to the Alabama Political Reporter, federal authorities are investigating the tribe's gaming enterprise and the occupant of the White House is watching too. Stories citing the presidents disdain for Indian underhanded tactics are always an interest to the White House, a person said to be a "former White House insider" told the outlet. Trump forgets nothing what the tribe is up to in Alabama is being heard in Washington. But the "stories" about "Indian underhanded tactics" seem to be originating from only one place and that happens to be the Alabama Political Reporter. In numerous news articles and opinion pieces on the site, the tribe is depicted as operating a gaming monopoly that enables it to exert widespread influence in the state. One recent story with the headline "Trump warned against it in 1993, now its coming home to Alabama" essentially congratulated Trump for predicting what is happening in the state during his infamous appearance on Capitol Hill some 26 years ago. "The future commander-in-chief railed against what he saw as the outsized privilege given by the government to tribal interests while denying private owners a fair seat at the table," the April 4 story read. Incidentally, the premise of that statement -- that tribes are somehow getting special treatment at the expense of others -- is the same one underlying the 24-word tweet that derailed two pro-tribal bills on Capitol Hill on Wednesday. The reason for the outlet's intense focus on the tribe is tied to efforts in the state to legalize a lottery. Almost every post on the site portrays the lottery in extremely negative terms. The tribe is naturally interested in the debate because of its Class II gaming enterprise. Authorizing a lottery could open the door to more lucrative Class III gaming , something that has occurred in other states. The tribe in the past has repeatedly asked state governors to negotiate for Class III gaming but all have refused to come to the table. As for those supposed "multiple federal probes," the Alabama Political Reporter says they appear to be focused on routine aspects of the tribe's gaming enterprise. A long-running dispute between the Poarch Band and the Muscogee (Creek) Nation over a casino built on a sacred site also appears to be of interest for reasons the outlet admitted it could not fully explain. Read More on the Story Join the Conversation Related Stories RICHMOND, Virginia -- The federal appeals court in this southern capital city doesn't hear from Indian Country often but it was hard to tell as a closely-watched tribal case came up for consideration on Tuesday. Over 40 minutes of arguments in a packed hearing room, judges on the 4th Circuit Court of Appeals repeatedly brought up precedents and principles which have confirmed that tribes and their entities can't be sued without their consent , or unless Congress does it for them in a clear and unambiguous fashion. That suggested they were well versed on the main issue in Williams v. Big Picture Loans -- whether a tribally-owned lending operation enjoys sovereign immunity as an "arm" of the tribe. And while they posed tough questions to both sides in the dispute, they appeared to be far more skeptical of the non-Indian side. They wondered why consumers in Virginia seem to be second-guessing the internal affairs of the Lac Vieux Desert Band of the Lake Superior Chippewa Indians , whose leaders came all the way from a remote corner of Michigan to attend the proceeding. "A tribe is a sovereign entity," asserted Judge G. Steven Agee , who was nominated to the bench by a Republican president. "That question was resolved a couple hundred years ago." "It seems like the bottom line is, 'We don't like payday lending,'" Agee told the attorney for the non-Indian plaintiffs. "Ergo, if the tribe is in payday lending, there is no tribal immunity." Judge Albert Diaz , another member of the panel that heard the case, also expressed concerns about the attack. He said the plaintiffs, who otherwise willingly did business with Big Picture Loans, the online lending operation, are trying to punish the tribe and undermine its sovereignty by questioning the involvement of non-Indians and the presence of off-reservation partners. "One of the sad consequences of tribal history is the fact that many reservations and its inhabitants have been deprived of educational opportunities, of economic opportunities," said Diaz, who was a nominee of a Democratic president. "As a result, I don't think it at all unusual that the tribe would rely -- at least initially -- on outsiders to run this business." "You seem to be suggesting that the tribe could never hire outsiders, or even have a majority of outsiders, run its business," added Diaz. Amid the push-back, attorney Matthew Wessler , the attorney for the plaintiffs, stood firm in his argument that several factors -- not just one in particular -- erode the tribe's right to assert immunity on behalf of the online lending operation. As one example, he pointed to a "financial arrangement" in which the tribe receives a seemingly small portion of the loan revenues. "As we have it today, the tribe gets 3 percent of the gross revenue," Wessler said. "The rest of the money is going out from the tribe." But Agee and Diaz knew that figure wasn't exactly right. Wessler conceded that it wasn't either. "They have 3 percent that goes to the tribe and 2 percent that gets reinvested back into the business," Wessler said after being prodded with the correct figure. "Which they own," Agee shot back. "Mantle: Virginia Indian Tribute," a monument that commemorates the life, achievements and legacy of American Indians in Virginia, sits at Capitol Square in Richmond, just steps from the building that houses the 4th Circuit Court of Appeals. The monument was dedicated in April 2018. Photo by Indianz.Com (CC BY-NC-SA 4.0) Agee and Diaz also argued that focusing solely on the percentage points in the financial arrangement doesn't tell the whole story. The "rest of the money" that the tribe supposedly isn't getting is being used to pay off debt, cover certain operational expenses and address other considerations, both judges pointed out at various times throughout the hearing. In other words, the tribe is doing what most other businesses do, except as a tribe. Of the arrangement under scrutiny by the plaintiffs, Agee said it looks like the tribe merely executed a "fairly savvy business transaction" to get started in the lending industry. Along those same lines, the two judges pointed out that the tribe will acquire greater control of the entire enterprise in a manner of years. Wessler conceded that was true but did not agree that it destroys his case, again pointing to the overall manner in which the business in run. Of the six factors considered by the federal judge assigned to the lawsuit, five weigh against immunity for the lending operation, he argued. But William Hurd, a locally-based attorney who represents the Lac Vieux Desert Band, said that judge got it all wrong. He urged the appeals court to adopt a different standard -- one of deference to the tribe -- and determine that the lending entities enjoy sovereign immunity. Quoting Chairman James Williams Jr., who was among the tribal leaders and officials who traveled more than 1,100 miles for the hearing, he said: "The business is the focus of our future." "It's everything we've been looking for to take care of our tribe for years to come," the chairman said of Big Picture Loans. "And it's something that is very successful." According to Hurd, the tribe currently receives $5 million a year from the gross revenues of the lending operation. In January 2023, the tribe will meet its obligations a key partner, he said, resulting in another $10 million a year going to programs and services in the tribe's homeland in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. "This is not a 'rent-a-tribe' scheme," Hurd said, which he called a "pejorative label" employed by the non-Indian plaintiffs in their complaint. "They seek to besmirch our clients with that 'rent-a-tribe' label, which is a slur," Hurd told the court. "Just as there are also legitimate bank lenders, there are legitimate tribal lenders," he continued. "For plaintiffs to suggest otherwise, because an Indian tribe is involved, is wrong." Tribes with online lending operations are closely watching Big Picture because Virginia has emerged as a hotbed for litigation against their industry. In a slew of complaints, non-Indian plaintiffs are hoping to gain certification of class action lawsuits that could severely hinder or outright shut down such operations. Businesses owned by the Chippewa Cree Tribe , the Habematolel Pomo of Upper Lake and the Otoe-Missouria Tribe have been named as defendants in the lawsuits, one of which was just filed last month But even those that aren't in the lending business are concerned about the implications. The factors being used to determine whether a tribally-owned entity is an "arm" of the tribe and thus entitled to sovereign immunity seem to be arbitrary, advocates have observed. Just how arbitrary? Some judge made it up one day," Charlie Galbraith, a citizen of the Navajo Nation who worked at the White House during the Obama administration and now practices law in the nation's capital, said at the Wiring the Rez conference , where the case and the lending industry was discussed at length earlier this year. In holding that Big Picture Loans was not entitled to immunity, Judge Robert E. Payne relied on the six factors laid out in a case from a California state court known as People v. Miami Nation Enterprises . The largest inter-tribal organizations in the U.S. argue that such an approach should not be adopted by the 4th Circuit, which is part of the federal court system. "The result is a very fact-intensive, fact specific inquiry one that disregards tribal law, tribal intent, and tribal sovereignty and that will effectively allow courts to second guess the 'operational' and 'financial' aspects of how tribes structure, finance, manage and operate wholly owned tribal enterprises," the National Congress of American Indians , the National Indian Gaming Association and the National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development wrote in their brief to the appeals court . ""This expansive and intrusive factual inquiry is paternalistic overreach not supported by federal law." The three appeals court judges who heard the case on Tuesday did not indicate when they would issue a decision. Unlike his counterparts, Judge Roger Gregory , who was installed on the bench by a Democratic president before being nominated by a Republican one, did not voice many questions during the hearing. After the conclusion of the arguments, all three judges stepped down from their seats to shake the hands of the attorneys for both sides, a long-practiced tradition of the 4th Circuit and one not seen in many other federal circuit courtrooms. Join the Conversation Related Stories The following is a statement from the United South and Eastern Tribes Sovereignty Protection Fund, an inter-tribal organization representing 27 tribal nations from Maine to Florida to Texas. During their recent meeting in the nation's capital, members of USET voiced strong support for the two tribal homelands bills that were derailed in the U.S. House of Representatives on Wednesday, May 8, 2019. Once again, encapsulated within a 24 word tweet today, President Trump has demonstrated his authentic disrespect and disregard towards Indian Country. While we often hear his Administrations repeated statements about respect for Indian Country, respect for Tribal Nation sovereignty, and honoring promises, his true sentiment is expressed within this tweet, as well as its deeper layers, and it stands in complete contradiction to the hollow rhetoric often espoused by this Administration. Calls from Indian Country for the President to cease his use of Pocahontas name in a disparaging manner and concerns expressed by Indian Country about this Administrations effort to take land out of trust fall only on deaf ears. Unfortunately, these are just two examples of this Administrations shameful lack of respect for Native Americans and its disregard of the sacred trust and treaty obligations it supposedly honors. The Presidents tweet also speaks of fairness and equality. However, this Administration is challenging the constitutionality of federal Indian programs, proposing disgraceful budgets, dismantling the White House Tribal Nations Conference, White House Policy Advisor for Native American Affairs, and the White House Council on Native American Affairs, demonstrating a lack of concern for protecting the Indian Health Care Improvement Act (IHCIA) as part of its efforts to undo the Affordable Care Act, deregulating at the expense of Indian Country concerns and interests, and displaying a lack of concern for the protection of sacred sites. These are just a few more examples of the truth beyond the rhetoric and are inconsistent with the Presidents concern for fairness and equality for Indian Country. At the same time, while many of the actions of this Administration are cause for grave concern, let us not forget that it does not have a monopoly on the challenges that we are facing today. While the challenges being presented by this Administration are real and acutely in focus, we must also remember that there is an entire local, state, federal, and societal system and institution that is working against our interests. Todays tweet should remind us all that these are hard and challenging times. During these times, in moments such as this, Indian Country must stand up in unity and express its outrage. We cannot allow ourselves to be silenced or to remain quiet for fear of political retribution. Most importantly, Indian Country must be on full alert or we will eventually discover the consequences of being asleep at the wheel. Join the Conversation Related Stories Thin on broadband: Tribal areas still struggle with lagging technology Cronkite News WASHINGTON Just Google it. Carroll Onsae says its a joke among Hopi, who have broadband internet in only some pockets of the reservation. And even there it works slowly. Our area is economically disadvantaged. Its a hardship for families to not have service to broadband services, said Onsae, the general manager of Hopi Telecommunications Inc. Only about 29% of Hopi households have access to broadband, compared to 79% in Arizona and 78% nationwide, according to Census Bureau data The Hopi are not alone. Fewer than half the households on tribal lands in Arizona have access to broadband internet, and only one the Yavapai-Prescott Indian Tribe exceeds the state average, according to the Census. People take for granted when they live in urban or suburban areas that they can log on and take an online class, for example, said Darlene Burden, who has worked in tribal telecommunication since 2008. They take advantage of the fact that they can apply for a job. Of course for those things you have to have broadband access. But advocates say broadband can mean so much more in tribal areas. On reservations with a high rate of doctor turnover, it can mean uninterrupted time with an online therapist or a video chat with a doctor. For students, it might mean access to different educational resources and for small businesses, a strong network could help put them on the map. Access to high-speed internet is absolutely critical now more than ever, said Rep. Greg Stanton, D-Phoenix. We need to close that digital divide between urban and rural areas so people have access to the things they need. Stanton last month amended the House bill restoring net neutrality to require that the Federal Communications Commission work more closely with tribal nations to assess their internet needs and to improve access and reliability. That bill passed the House , but is not expected to pass the Senate. [ H.R.1644 , Save the Internet Act] His amendment cited a Government Accountability Office report last year that said the FCC overstated availability of internet access on tribal lands and does not collect information about the quality or affordability of broadband service. That can affect commission decisions on which areas get funding to build and improve connection lines. We need to make sure that as we advance, we dont leave other people in our own state behind, he said. Few tribal entities are benefiting from federal programs meant to increase broadband deployment, according to the Government Accountability Office. Source: GAO-16-630 But challenges to broadband are significant on reservations. Besides having to cover large swaths of sparsely populated rural land, many reservations systems still operate with copper lines or weak fiber optics. Doug Kitch, a consultant with Alexicon, which works to regulate rural telecom providers, said companies will not incur the necessary cost to provide service to those areas to deploy and maintain bandwidth. They would rather get 20,000, 50,000 subscribers per square mile instead of one subscriber per square mile, a company might get on a reservation, he said. With no private firms interested in the high-cost, low-density markets that are tribal areas, some tribes decided to step in and provide service themselves. Kitch said major carriers wouldnt even come in and offer service to the majority of these reservations, so these tribes built their own telecommunications networks. Theyre going to do whats best for their community. There are nine tribally owned and operated telecommunication companies in the U.S., five of which are in Arizona, according to the National Tribal Telecommunications Association. One of those is Hopi Telecommunications Inc., which the tribe started in 2004. One of our goals is to provide affordable, reliable internet access, Onsae said. Not just telephone calls. Affordable and reliable internet is no cheaper for tribal carriers than it is for larger companies and tribes can face added layers of federal regulations, experts say. The Hopi service relies on federal loans to expand its network. Last year, it got an Agriculture Department loan to bring internet access to another 650 homes on the reservation through a fiber-optic connection and let those on old-technology copper lines get faster internet access. We are having to build our infrastructure so that those who do not have access will have access, but it is requiring a lot of capital and loans, Onsae said. Were doing OK, and being OK is driven by the number of customers who can afford to buy the service. But access and reliability can be a delicate balancing act for providers in rural areas. Alandra Duyongwa of the Hopi Tribe takes part in a Congressional ceremony in November 2013, held in honor of Code Talkers throughout Indian Country. Photo: Caleb Smith / Speaker John Boehner Onsae said his firm would have to take out more loans to make service more widely available loans that would have to be paid back by customers who would be added to the expanding network. All of which comes at a cost. So if they (customers) cant afford it, we cant pay back those loans to make it more available, he said. Kitch said more needs to be done to help reservations improve infrastructure for broadband and to provide more opportunities to the households that need it. Those areas have unique circumstances, they have cultural and environmental issues they have to address, Kitch said. These tribes need more funding in order to deploy modern networks and get their communities up to standards around the nation. Onsae is hopeful for the future of increased internet access on reservations, and has already seen a change since the Hopi established their own telecommunication network. Now they can do all kinds of things you and I would do, Onsae said. Like Google. Government Accountability Office Reports 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 The 11th Ministerial Meeting of the Arctic Council took place this week in Rovaniemi, Finland to conclude Finland's two-year Chairmanship and mark the beginning of the Iceland's Chairmanship. Together the six Permanent Participants representing Indigenous Peoples across the Arctic have issued the following quotes: As Permanent Participants, we call upon the Member States to reaffirm their commitment to the established process of the Arctic Council, which seeks to reach consensus and solutions for the peace, stability and common good of the Arctic. We stress the need for Member States to meaningfully engage with Arctic Indigenous peoples and support the mandate of the Arctic Council - our full participation. The Permanent Participants welcome the dedication of those Member States who have demonstrated leadership in making tangible progress, including towards addressing the impacts of climate change and call upon the Member States to, among other things, address climate change immediately at the local, national, and international levels. We thank Finland for their excellent work as the Chair of the Arctic Council from 2017 to 2019. We look forward to the incoming Icelandic Chairmanship from 2019 to 2021. Congratulations on your important work Aleut International Association, Arctic Athabaskan Council, Gwich'in Council International, Inuit Circumpolar Council (Inuit Circumpolar Council Alaska, Inuit Circumpolar Council Canada, ICC Greenland and ICC Chukotka), RAIPON - and The Saami Council. To listen to all the Permanent Participants' Ministerial statements, click here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FIaSm-l8IxY Photo credit: Jouni Porsanger / Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Finland, Ulkoministerio - utrikesministeriet Arctic word games or Indigenous survival? Indigenous leaders call climate change an urgent threat that requires a global response (an idea that was trashed by the Trump administration) Indian Country Today This is why the Arctic matters to us all : The Arctic is warming faster than the rest of the planet, showing temperature increases twice as large as global averages. Sea ice, snow cover, glaciers and permafrost are all diminishing due to Arctic warming. Vulnerable ecosystems in the Arctic are under threat, reports the Arctic Council. Climate change causes rapidly changing living conditions for 4 million Arctic inhabitants. Hunting, fishing and herding activities are threatened by changes in snow and ice conditions. Traditional livelihoods of Indigenous Peoples in the Arctic are at risk. So Arctic governments, including Indigenous representatives, have been using the tool of consensus in order to meet that challenge. The Arctic Council includes eight Arctic nations: Canada, the Kingdom of Denmark (including Greenland and the Faroe Islands), Finland, Iceland, Norway, Russian Federation, Sweden, and the U.S. In addition, its the only member-state organization that includes six Indigenous permanent members representing the Aleut, Inuit, Athabaskan, Gwichin, Sami, and Russian Indigenous Peoples of the North. Combating climate change is an urgent common challenge for the international community and requires immediate global action, the Arctic Council members said in unified statements of one kind or another for more than a decade. The Trump administration trashed consensus this week. Dalee Sambo Dorough serves as chair of the International Chair of the Inuit Circumpolar Council. Photo: Kaisa Siren / Ministry of the Environment Finland At the ministerial meeting in Rovaniemi, Finland, Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo refused to use the words climate change in any joint statement. Refusing to allow the words climate change into the declaration is a moral failure, said Dalee Sambo Dorough. She is International Chair of the Inuit Circumpolar Council , which represents 165,000 Inuit in Greenland, Canada, Alaska and Chukotka, Russia. This is the first time the Arctic Council has failed to issue a declaration at the end of a two-year chairmanship, and its a serious blow to the future of what is supposed to be a consensus based body, Sambo Dorough said in a news release. Inuit are feeling the effects of climate change everyday. While the US government concerns itself with semantics, playing games with words, our people are witnessing the adverse impacts of climate change. What about us and our reality? Edward Alexander, co-chair of Gwichin Council International and the head of delegation, told Indian Country Today that the way the United States reached this outcome was particularly troubling. He said the language had been already largely agreed upon, and the substance of which was worked through dozens of Arctic Council Working Group projects. There was ample time for the United States to express its sentiments, and to work towards consensus over the last two years of the Finnish Chairmanship. Instead the US chose to vacate its leadership role and its not entirely clear why. Consensus was achieved in approving the Senior Arctic Officials Report which details the projects of the working groups, many of the projects are based in the terms found objectionable by the US, like black carbon, climate change, etc., Alexander said. So, the US withheld consensus on the declaration which would have recognized projects it had already approved, recognized that they occurred, and instead, inexplicably alienated nations around the circumpolar north for essentially no reason by refusing to sign a declaration on these important issues. Instead Arctic Council ministers agreed to release a seven-paragraph joint statement that avoided mentioning any of the threats and challenges faced in the Arctic. Gwich'in Council International Head of Delegation Edward Alexander. Photo: Kaisa Siren / Ministry of the Environment Finland However, a statement from Finnish Foreign Minister Timo Soini, the chair of the Arctic Council, said in a press conference following the meeting that "the declaration in a traditional way wasn't possible this time." He also added that a majority of us regarded climate change as a fundamental challenge facing the Arctic, adding there is an urgent need to deal with it. The U.S. State Department disagrees.It's not accurate to say that the US wouldn't support a joint declaration, a senior official told CNN . "There were several different versions of the declaration going around. The US was ready to sign. Secretary Pompeo made it very clear that there was a version of the declaration - all of these were being compared and in the middle of that at the ministers dinner, a conversation originated organically about doing a joint statement instead -- doing a simpler, positive, unified, collective message," they said. The senior officials said that "just because you don't have a certain phrase in it you can't infer that the United States has taken some sort of position (that) it's anti-environment." But that spin is not what other governments and Indigenous representatives heard. And this is the first time the United States, or any member state, has not been a partner in a consensus declaration. This position was taken by the US Administration despite the fact that the 2017 Fairbanks Declaration at the end of the US Chairmanship clearly cited the effects of climate change in the Arctic and the need for action at all levels, said Monica Ell-Kanayuk, President of Inuit Circumpolar Conference Canada. Its unfortunate theres no declaration but at least the Chairs statement recognizes the urgency of dealing with climate change. Despite previous statements out of the US Administration that climate change is a hoax perpetuated by China, Inuit see the reality of climate change every day, said James Stotts, president of Inuit Circumpolar Conference Alaska. And the reality is our communities are struggling for survival. We are worried about the undermining of the Arctic Councils credibility at a time when genuine leadership and a strong Arctic voice is needed, said Hjalmar Dahl, president of Inuit Circumpolar Conference Greenland. This is not just a question of words its about the long-term survival of our culture and communities,said Liubov Taian, president of Iniut Circumpolar Conference Russia. Our traditional Inuit territory covers 40 percent of the Arctic region and it is essential that governments work with us to deal with the threat of climate change throughoutInuit Nunaat, our Arctic homeland. Photo credit: Jouni Porsanger / Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Finland, Ulkoministerio - utrikesministeriet Posted by Arctic Council Indigenous Peoples' Secretariat on Thursday, May 9, 2019 Asa Larsson Blind, president of the Saami Council, said at the ministerial conference that Indigenous people have a story to tell about best practices. "Cooperation and co-management between Indigenous peoples and states as equal partners is indeed the best chance we have for an Arctic with high bio -and cultural diversity, a prosperous Arctic for all," she said. Climate change is not the only issue Indigenous face in the Arctic. During the Arctic Council ministerial meeting, the Inuit Circumpolar Conference called on governments to address some of the issues important to us: wildlife management and food security; the infrastructure and social services deficit; physical and environmental health issues, including the horror of suicide; and culture and language protection. Stotts said the Arctics Indigenous communities should be listened to, both to address the problems facing the region and people as well as potential solutions. Now is the time for a unified response to the threat posed by climate change and its compounding spinoff effects, Stotts said. Alexander said he was particularly troubled by Pompeos speech and the potential of a military build up in the region. I grew up in the north during the Cold War, in a community that hosted a Distant Early Warning facility, large towers peering over the horizon of taiga for a nuclear holocaust that thankfully never arrived, he said. Let me be clear: we must not replace our melting sea ice with another unnecessary Cold War in a place of peace and stability. I too learned to peer over the horizon for the threat of war. We must not accept a Cold War 2.0, this version with America erecting an iron curtain on its southern border and projecting aggression in the north. He said he supports the idea of defense, but we shouldnt be issuing statements like Sec. Pompeos attacking the sovereignty of our allies territorial integrity, like happened with Canadas northwest passage. I am sure the gift of those remarks wont be forgotten by China or Russia moving forward, and well no doubt, and ironically, be fed them in the future. Instead, Alexander said, We need a more just, peaceful world, one that is achievable with consensus driven discussions and the critical participation of Indigenous peoples. Kiitos, #Finland. Through dedicated leadership over the past 2 years, the Finnish Chairmanship team @FIArctic continued to bring representatives of all #Arctic States & the #indigenous Permanent Participants to one table to discuss joint visions of a prosperous & peaceful #Arctic pic.twitter.com/0mlc99gwGA Arctic Council (@ArcticCouncil) May 8, 2019 And global warming is the security issue, Alexander said. The challenge of global warming, ocean acidification, and the warming of the Arctic, are the greatest existential threat to the future of humankind. Gwichin, as owners and stewards of a great deal of land in the north, know that climate change also threatens the existence of the flora and fauna around the globe. Gwichin have called upon the world repeatedly to meet this threat with solutions and peaceful cooperation built upon mutual respect, he said. We have consistently challenged the nations of the world to address these threats immediately. And we have taken substantial action on our own to meet the challenges in our way: using local renewable timber resources for housing, solar projects in our remote fly-in communities north of the Arctic Circle, and in projects brought through the Arctic Council, among many other examples. We spoke frankly in the ministerial about the threat to the Porcupine Caribou Herd and called directly on the US to stop lease sales in the Arctic Refuge, the heart of biodiversity in the circumpolar north. We spoke frankly to Sec. of State Pompeo one on one about these issues and about the issue of the free movement of Gwichin across our traditional territories and the need for Canada to ratify the Jay Treaty and allow us economic and social mobility in line with our rights as indigenous people under the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. We spoke of the Jay Treaty to remind America that at the very beginning of the special relationship with Great Britain, that good faith arbitration to solve international conflict was coined, and in the middle of that document our Indigenous rights to freely travel and live our ways of life were front and center. Alexander said: Our people will be heard on issues of importance in our own lands, in Canada and in America. Native Americans have always had a keen sense of the forgotten history of America, from Crispus Attucks onward to Code Talkers. Never has America had greater need for good leadership than now Only by working together in a good way will our children and grandchildren, our peoples and nations, survive the crisis of climate change and global warming. Mark Trahant is the editor of Indian Country Today . He is a member of the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes . Follow him on Twitter @TrahantReports This story originally appeared on Indian Country Today on May 9, 2019. Join the Conversation Related Stories The Northern Arapaho Tribe is experiencing some financial difficulties. The tribe has cut the work week for governmental employees to 32 hours, Wyoming News Exchange reported. The change is needed to save money because of a projected $5 million deficit in the budget, Chairman Lee Spoonhunter said. "We are right now against a brick wall," Spoonhunter was quoted as saying. The Northern Arapahos share the Wind River Reservation in Wyoming with the Eastern Shoshone Tribe . The two tribes operate their governments independently. Read More on the Story Join the Conversation Ever since the pre-dawn Indian Air Force raid in Balakot, Pakistan targeting Jaish-e-Muhammad (JeM) camps, there has been confusion over the number of fatalities. While Pakistan has been maintaining that the IAF aircrafts missed the target and there were no deaths, most of the Indian media and some minister have said that up to 300 JeM terrorists were killed in the strike. The IAF which carried out the air strike maintains that the intended targets were hit and there was a large number of casualties but stopped short of putting any official figures. AFP The Air Force also claimed that there were around 300 active mobile phones at the location at the time of the air strike. Now an Italian journalist has added another twist to the entire episode. Francesca Marino, an Italian journalist, and author has claimed that up to 170 JeM terrorists were killed in the air strike on February 26. In a report published in stringerasia.it, she claimed that an Army unit, from their camp in Shinkiari, arrived at the location of the strike at around 6 am, and took away the injured to a Harkat-ul-Mujahideen camp, where they were treated by Pakistan Army doctors. AFP She also reported that around 20 of the injured have died during treatment, while some others are still undergoing treatment. Quoting local sources, she further said that the number of deaths could be from 130-170, including those who have died during treatment. Those killed included 11 trainers, ranging from bomb makers to those imparting weapons training. Two of them were from Afghanistan. AFP Ever since the air strike the Pakistani Army has taken absolute control of the area and did not even let local reporters go there. Only after 43 days, Pakistan took a group of international reporters to the spot in a 'guided tour' to show them that the air strike did not hit any buildings. In her report, Marino also added that the families of those killed in the air strike have been offered money not to speak out. She also corroborated another development in the area, which Reuters had earlier reported. The missing signboards of the JeM linked Madrasa. Earlier when an Al Jazeera team had visited the spot one of the photos showed the signboard. But later when a Reuters team went to the same spot the board which had the name of Masood Azhar was gone. In her report, Marino stated that now there is a freshly painted signboard of the Taleem-ul-Quran. Delhi has been reeling under very poor air quality and it is set to deteriorate further to severe category due to dust storms in northwest India. According to the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR), the air quality index (AQI) was at 341 on May 8 which falls in 'very poor' category. BCCL An AQI between 0 and 50 is considered 'good', 51 and 100 'satisfactory', 101 and 200 'moderate', 201 and 300 'poor', 301 and 400 'very poor', and 401 and 500 'severe'. Starting Wednesday night, the entire northwest India, including north Gujarat, Rajasthan, parts of Uttar Pradesh, Haryana and Delhi are going to be in the grip of dust storm. BCCL The current spell is widespread dust from dry arid west Rajasthan region due to high temperature and favourable wind speed. Dust storms will continue to grip Delhi till May 10, according to SAFAR and after that the air quality is expected to improve due to western disturbance and thunderstorm. Delhi has been reeling under very poor air quality and it is set to deteriorate further to severe category due to dust storms in northwest India. According to the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR), the air quality index (AQI) was at 341 on May 8 which falls in 'very poor' category. Read more Fraudster Nirav Modi Will Continue To Be In Jail As UK Court Rejects His Third Bail Plea Diamond businessman Nirav Modi, who is one of India's most wanted economic offenders, will continue to remain in Wandsworth prison in London after the Chief Magistrate at Westminster Magistrates Court rejected his bail plea. This is the third time that the UK court has rejected the bail application of Modi who was arrested by the Scotland Yard in March. Read more An Italian Journalist Claims That IAF Air Strikes In Balakot Killed Up To 170 JeM Terrorists Francesca Marino, an Italian journalist, and author has claimed that up to 170 JeM terrorists were killed in the air strike on February 26. In a report published in stringerasia.it, she claimed that an Army unit, from their camp in Shinkiari, arrived at the location of the strike at around 6 am, and took away the injured to a Harkat-ul-Mujahideen camp, where they were treated by Pakistan Army doctors. Read more How A Ban On Parading An Almost Blind, 54-Year-Old Elephant Has Become A Political Issue In Kerala As Thrissur is all set for the spectacle which involves caparisoned elephants, ornate umbrellas, lighting, and firecrackers elephant owners in the state have decided not to field their jumbos for the grand event scheduled for 13th and 14th of this month. Elephant owners took the decision after Thrissur District Collector TV Anupama banned parading of Thechikottukavu Ramachandran, a celebrity jumbo who has his own fans and social media accounts. Read more This Mumbai Youth Has Cleaned Dadar Beach With His Friends & Got UN Award For 21-year-old Malhar Kalambe, weekends are not about hanging out with friends. Instead, they have a different mission - cleaning the Dadar beach. It's their expression to thank their city and make it cleaner for people who come and live here. Collectively, they have made such a huge difference to the beach that the United Nations has recognised their contribution. Malhar was awarded by the UN in December last year. Read more India Is Third Largest Consumer Of Pornography But 34% Still Want It To Be Permanently Banned Indians are pretty hungry for free and accessible porn, given the fact that the country ranks third in porn consumption. Despite this, close to 34 per cent Indians believe pornography should be permanently banned in the country. According to market research firm Ipsos, around 34 per cent of middle-class respondents in a survey said they believe pornography should be completely banned. Read more She is a prostitute. Think for once that if she wins, you will have to go to a prostitute for help or some work. Reads a line from the utterly derogatory letter being circulated against Aam Aadmi Partys East Delhi candidate Atishi. She broke down on stage as she read the first line of an abusive pamphlet demeaning her and calling her names. The pamphlet contained "obscene and derogatory" comments about her. In India, the easiest way to target a rival candidate is to resort to mudslinging, and if its a woman candidate, the job becomes easier a simple sexist remark is enough. This isnt the first time that rival politicians have resorted to sexist comments and remarks about woman politicians personal lives and profession. Women of calibre, who dare to enter the traditionally male-dominated territory of politics become easy targets of unacceptable sexist and bigot remarks. The Lok Sabha Elections 2019 are not about development issues anymore, the focus is now on personal lives, and choice of clothes in this case, woman politicians. Jaya Prada, formerly a member of Samajwadi Party (SP) a member of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), was viciously attacked by SP leader Azam Khan. In an attempt to highlight her new affiliation, Khan, effortlessly, referred to her innerwear being khaki, colour of the RSS uniform. Smriti Irani, union minister of textiles, has often been dismissed as a mere television actress. She was famously called Aunty National in bold on the front page of a newspaper. Lalu Prasad famously promised to make roads in Bihar as smooth as Hema Malini cheeks, a member of BJP and MP from Mathura. Former CM of Uttar Pradesh and Bahujan Samaj Party supremo, Mayawati, has constantly remained at the receiving end of political venom. She has been described as a sex worker and had her gender being questioned multiple times. BJP MP recently felt it was absolutely necessary to comment on Congress Priyanka Gandhis clothes. Harish Dwivedi said she only wears jeans and top when she stays in Delhi, but comes wearing a saree and sindoor while visiting rural areas. Priyankas looks have become a matter of political discussion. Sajjan Singh Verma, minister of Public Works Department in Madhya Pradesh government, was quoted by a leading news weekly, It is BJPs bad luck that they do not have someone as beautiful as Priyanka Gandhi in their party. They only have khurdure (ugly, rough) faces. They have one Hema Malini and they keep using her to do classical dance across the country to earn votes. While politicians are making promises to reserve 33 per cent of seats in the parliament for women while on the other hand, hateful and chauvinist comments on women politicians are also part of the deal. Women are massively underrepresented in the Indian parliament and such cases only exacerbate the situation. These women who enter politics and run parties with iron fists are addressed as didi, amma, behenji, etc. A simple question here is Are men judged on the basis of their looks or weight? And the simple answer is - No. This narrow attitude and the lack of respect toward woman politicians only reflects the deeply and painfully ingrained patriarchy and chauvinism that blinds men to see women as their equals. Politics is about working towards the well-being of constituents. It is not about anyones gender, looks or clothes. Perhaps when election discourse rises to discuss issues that matter to the people of this country is when we will finally see a change. #ITCounts is an Indiatimes initiative to move beyond the noise and the name-calling and focus on issues that really matter to our generation. We aim to be more about migration, pollution, LGBTQ rights, women's issues and healthcare than about Pakistan, political posturing and trolling. If you have any suggestions/inputs/feedback or advice please hit us up at kabeer.sharma@timesinternet.in An Indian Christian who is a businessman and had earlier built a mosque for the Muslim workers is yet again in the news. Muslims are observing Ramadan and the businessman is serving iftar meal for nearly 800 workers. The holy month of Ramzan began from 7 May and Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset. Hailing from Keralas Kayamkulam, Saji Cheriyan, 49, built a mosque last year for Muslim workers living in worker accommodation he rented out to different companies in Fujairah. Mary, the Mother of Jesus or Mariam Umm Eisa mosque was built by him last year when he saw workers taking taxis to go to nearby mosque to offer prayers in the holy month of Ramazan. He saw workers spending their earnings on taxi fares. Cheriyan who had come to UAE in 2003 with only few hundred dirhams, hosted iftar meal for around 800 people which includes workers as well as other senior employees in an air conditioned convention centre. "The mosque opened on the 17th night of Ramadan last year. So, I could offer iftar to the worshippers only for the remaining days. From this year, I would be doing it every day," he was quoted as saying by the newspaper. Reuters/Representational Image Water, dates, juice, fruits, snacks and biryani are the part of meal served to the workers. "I have made arrangements to offer different types of biryani so that they dont get bored eating the same dish every iftar," he said. Cheriyans efforts have been acknowledged by people. Abdul Qayum, 63, a bus driver from Pakistan praised Cheriyans effort, "The world needs people like him. If there are no people like him, the world will end. We are praying for him. Allah will bless him." Reuters/Representational Image There are employees of over 50 companies living in this area, an assistant manager of a company and an Indian, Vajas Abdul Wahid told Gulf News. "Senior employees and labourers are staying in separate accommodations. But, when we come here, we are all equal. We pray and have iftar together," he added. The mosque is located in the East Ville Real Estate complez in Al Hayl industrial area and it can accommodate 250 worshipers at a time and the facility to accommodate 700 other worshippers to pray has been organised in the interlocked courtyard of the mosque. Recently released images by NASA show the stark difference in light in Bhubaneshwar after deadly cyclone Fani, one of the worst storms to hit India since 1999, hit the state and caused massive destruction. Millions of households plunged into darkness after Fani made a landfall in Odisha and killed more than 40 people. NASA US space agency NASA shared an article on its website with images explaining "where the lights went out across some of the worst affected areas in Odisha. The images show city lighting on April 30 (before the storm) and on May 5, 2019, two days after Fani made landfall. The storm destroyed several transmission towers and uprooted as many as 156,000 utility poles that must re-installed." On May 3, cyclone Fani made a landfall in Odisha. More than one million people were evacuated and close to 5,000 temporary shelters were erected. Puri, Cuttack and Khurda were among the worst-affected areas. However, the situation has improved now. "The state government has informed the Centre that situation in eight out of nine districts has improved and power and telecom services are gradually picking up in the worst-affected areas of Puri and Bhubaneswar," a home ministry statement said. It is election time in our country and everyone is waiting with bated breath for the results on May 23. All political parties are trying to woo the voters so that they come to power for the next five years. We see several supporters wearing their party's merchandise among other things. Recently, police personnel on duty at the roadshow of Congress leader Digvijaya Singh and Namdas Tyagi, also known as 'Computer Baba', were seen sporting a saffron scarf along with their uniform. ANI However, officials claimed they were "forced" to wear the same. On being asked why they were wearing saffron scarves, one of the police officers told news agency ANI, "We are here on duty for a road show conducted by Computer Baba. We have been made to wear this. "The woman police officer did not reveal who directed her and the other officials to wear saffron scarves. On contrary to this, police claimed that those who were seen in saffron scarves were volunteers, not police personnel. ANI "We and the organisers of the event had enrolled volunteers for the rally. We will get volunteers in the evening also. We have no say in what volunteers wear. The sub-inspectors who were on duty did not wear any scarves. The volunteers are not police officers. If they are claiming they are police officers it is their call. I am saying it on record that they were not police officers," Bhopal DIG Irshad Wali said. "If a legal rally is being held and someone tries to interfere then we have to take action. We will identify all persons and see if BJP workers were involved in the matter," he added. (With agency inputs) When Season 8's Episode 4 of Game of Thrones debuted on Monday this week, fans were eager to see which of their favourite characters had survived the battle of Winterfell, and which had perished. However, they were in for a coffee-related surprise as well. Despite two years to film and edit, an unattended Starbucks cup somehow made it into the final cut of the episode. The cup was spotted sitting on a table in front of Daenerys Targaryen during the post-battle celebrations, and the memes began rolling in. Some argued that it showed how sloppy the showrunners were getting, while others joked about how Starbucks is now inextricably tied into the show's lore. But the biggest winner here was the global cafe chain. News from Winterfell. The latte that appeared in the episode was a mistake. #Daenerys had ordered an herbal tea. pic.twitter.com/ypowxGgQRl Game of Thrones (@GameOfThrones) May 6, 2019 According to CNBC, Starbucks received an estimated $2.3 billion in free advertising in the days after the episode aired. This is despite the fact it eventually turned out that it wasn't the brand's iconic green siren on the cup, but instead a cup of tea from the production's craft services. HBO has since had the cup, discreetly, digitally removed from the scene. Starbucks however, thanks to it going viral, has already received over $2 billion in free advertising, according Stacy Jones, CEO of marketing company Hollywood Branded. There were apparently 10,627 mentions of Starbucks and 'Game of Thrones' online and on TV and radio around the world as of yesterday. "This is a once-in-a-lifetime collision of opportunity for Starbucks," she told CNBC. "But really, this is just the tip of the iceberg, because what isn't being monitored or estimated is the word of mouth and social media on top of this." And all because someone forgot to clean up after themselves. A couple of weeks ago, Ina Mansika lost her phone in the sea while at the docks near Hammerfest in Norway. Luckily for her, a friend was nearby to help fish it out. Not one of her companions - her phone was returned by a friendly beluga whale. The group had walked down to the docks hoping to spot the beluga whale, which had been reported to be hanging out in the area. They laid down on the dock, hoping to catch a glimpse of it and maybe pat it in case it came near. Not much is known about the friendly whale, though it did previously seem to be wearing a harness of some sort. As such, the belief is that it might have been trained by the Russian navy as a sort of spy, probably with a GoPro previously attached to that harness. The whale had since been freed of the harness and continues to linger nearby. "I had forgotten to close my jacket pocket and my phone fell in the ocean," Mansika told The Dodo. "We assumed it would be gone forever, until the whale dove back down and came back a few moments later with my phone in its mouth!" The group luckily managed to capture the heart-warming moment on camera. "Everyone was so surprised. We almost didn't believe what we saw," Mansika said. "I was super happy and thankful that I got my phone back." The phone was obviously rendered inoperable by the inundation, but that's a small price to pay to have a friendly be your personal helper, even if only for a moment. It's unclear whether the whale continues to remain near humans because its supposed training made it unfit to survive in the wild. Either way, local authorities are keeping an eye on the creature, and hope to eventually relocate him to a sanctuary in Iceland. The Chhattisgarh police for the first time has inducted thirty women commandos in Dantewada of Bastar region and have deployed them in Malangir. The women who will be at the frontline of the anti-Maoist force have been given extensive training in jungle combat. 'They are trained for motorcycle patrolling in the dense forests, map reading, understanding Naxal profiles and counter ambush strategy,' says Superintendent of Police Abhishek Pallava. PTI/Picture For Representation The 30 women are surrendered women Maoists and this is also a bid to lure Maoists women to join mainstream forces, state reports. According to PTI, the women squad has been named 'Danteshwari Ladake', or fighters of Goddess Danteshwar. "A first-of-its-kind platoon of women DRG commandos has been raised. Of the 30 recruits, 10 are surrendered women Naxals, while 10 others are assistant constables who were part of the erstwhile Salwa Judum (anti-Naxal militia) movement," Dantewada Superintendent of Police Abhishek Pallava told PTI. With the induction of the women commando contingent, the number of platoons of the DRG in Dantewada now stands at six, he said. "Although the state police and paramilitary forces in Bastar have deployed women personnel but they have limited work. It is for the first time that an exclusive team of women commandos has been set up to carry out counter insurgency operations shoulder to shoulder with male DRG members in the area," said Pallava, who is credited with introducing this platoon. Twitter/Picture For Representation The SP added that being able to melt into the local crowd wearing civil attire like sarees and still move around with concealed weapons gave the women commandos the "surprise element" to get the better of the Maoist ultras. A member of the platoon, Gange, a surrendered "deputy commander" with the outlawed CPI (Maoist), said, "We want to take part in anti-Naxal operations and free Bastar of the Maoist menace." PTI The world is still trying to figure why Prince Harry and Meghan decided to name their first child 'Archie.' Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor has already made a royal entry into Twitter's chaotic meme-world too, with people drawing comparisons of his name to a million things in their lives. Of course, every time a royal baby comes into the world, happy coincidences are bound to occur. Like this baby born 6 hours before the royal baby was named Archie and weighs the same as the Duke and Duchess' son. So my gorgeous nephew Archie was born 6 hours before the Royal Baby, they weighed the same and now are named the same, knew I was royalty in some way xo #RoyalBaby #RoyalBabyName #Archie pic.twitter.com/Q2yHjh8sID m e g (@x_megmc_x) May 8, 2019 Apart from that, people went all out by thanking the royals for naming the baby after their pets and there are hundreds out there: #1 It was so nice of Prince Harry & Meghan Markle to name their new baby after my handsome guy #Archie pic.twitter.com/L3dRovD0Vn Rachel (@Rachel_Lane23) May 8, 2019 #2 Just stopping by to say that the royal baby is named after my cat. #Archie pic.twitter.com/fv3vBSFmY9 Jessica Anks (@janks_meow) May 9, 2019 #3 My dog, #Archie is excited to share his name with the new little prince! pic.twitter.com/kAjAZQ22Rx Kristen Donohue (@kdonohuenj) May 9, 2019 Another point of concern for a few, was, what if the baby turned out to look exactly like the comic book character (also, ofcourse, Prince Harry) red haired and freckled. I'm going to laugh and laugh if Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor has red hair and freckles. Mikki Kendall (@Karnythia) 8 May 2019 Archie is short for the old-fashioned name Archibald. And there's really nothing wrong with, if anything it's a wonderful choice, except it's meme makers busy. The Duke and Duchess have actually gone against the grain on many counts after the Royal baby's arrival. First, if the name, which is no way royal. Second Prince Harry held the baby and not meghan, unlike the rest Kate and Diana who held their babies. I love that Prince Harry is holding #Archie as they introduce him. pic.twitter.com/AzzSZDjRPd Mary (@_marymason) May 8, 2019 Also, Doria Ragland, Meghan Markle's mother was included in the birth announcement picture, something that we've never seen with the rest of royals. In a bid to highlight the dismal state of human rights issues in Kazakhstan, an activist decided to stand in a public space holding a blank placard. 24-year-old Nur-Aslan Sagutdinov shared the incident on Facebook and said that it took minutes for police to arrest him even though the piece of paper had no inscription. For that matter, there was no chanting of slogans either. They will take me to the police department even if there are no inscriptions on my poster and I do not chant any slogans, 24-year-old Nur-Aslan Sagutdinov said on Facebook. "I want to show that the idiocy in our country has gotten so strong that the police will detain me now even though there are no inscriptions, no slogans, without my chanting or saying anything," Mr. Sagutdinov said in the video. Kazakhstan imposes severe restrictions on freedom of expression and this incident just highlights the gravity of this problem. Soon after his arrest, many Kazakhs took to social media and put up pictures with blank sheet. According to reports, Kazakhstan prepares for a presidential election in June, its first transfer of power in years. A snap election was announced for 9 June 2019, after Kazakhstans President Nursultan Nazarbayev unexpectedly stepped down on March 19. His stepping down is a game changer as Nazarbayev is the only president independent Kazakhstan has ever known, state reports. Nazarbayev became the first president of newly independent Kazakhstan in December 1991 and has remained the countrys only president for the next 30 years. New styles and concepts pop up in the fashion industry every day, and while a lot of them are great, some of them are plain weird. A couple of months ago, we saw a British fashion brand ASOS selling a pair of see-through trousers and people were far from impressed. Check out these ASOS sheer organza combat trousers. For the low cost of 40 you too can have your bits outadoor. pic.twitter.com/Wa0d9O336B Empress Firecracker (@EFirecracker) February 13, 2019 We saw another weird concept come to life with Y/Project Navy Denim Panties,' from fashion label Y Project. It was described as the underwear which does not need to stay under there by e-store Ssense. Ssense Now Fashion Nova has caused quite the stir with their new 'coverup' pants, which shoppers have even gone as far as terming stripper trousers.' The trousers are worth Rs 1,749, which is not that expensive agreed, but who will buy these pants anyway? The cut out area nicely shows off your crotch area and bum. Have a look at these pants: Fashion Nova - Website Fashion Nova - Website These pants are brainchild of fashion designer Joel Alvarez. On the company's website, Alvarez explains where the idea stemmed from: "One day in 2008 I was a rookie photographer who was working with a model that suggested I use electrical tape [on] her for the last look. I honestly had no idea why she would want this but to make her happy I attempted to use this tape as wardrobe. Essentially I just wrapped her in black electrical tape!" Arjun Kapoor in a still from Indias Most Wanted. The film is based on the true story of how five Intelligence Bureau agents captured Indias most wanted terrorist without the use of any bullets, and minimal support from the government. (YouTube screenshot photo) Thirteen-year-old Dhriti Narayan, a 7th grader at Sunnyvale Middle School in Sunnyvale, Calif., has been in a coma since April 23, when she and members of her family were stuck down by a motorist as they were walking in an intersection. Sean Webby, spokesman for the Santa Clara County District Attorneys office, told India-West the incident is being investigated as a possible hate crime. (Dhriti Narayan GoFundMe page) Im hoping to bring back all the sights and sounds of the rainforest for the students, Bucciarelli said. I hope Ill be able to draw some parallels to Chicago and my students neighborhoods and all the resources that are there natural resources that maybe they dont see initially, like parks and forest preserves, but also what other resources are available to them that they may not be aware of. An Eastern city with a Western outlook, Baku is an exceptional combination of antiquity and novelty with several sites of interest. A constantly evolving tapestry of life and energy from bazaar to Jazz clubs, prepare to be mesmerised! For millennia, Azerbaijan has been at the crossroads of history. Azerbaijans unique geography and location have resulted in a cuisine influenced by the lands natural ingredients. It has also assimilated the flavours of the travellers that passed through its heartlands. Indulge your palate with unique flavours and expect a plethora of gourmet options to delight food connoisseurs. If you just have a few days to travel this Eid below are the top five things you must do in Azerbaijan: Check out the primitive petroglyphs of Gobustan situated 60 km from Baku Rising out of the semi-desert Gobustan is a UNESCO World Heritage site of more than 6,000 rock engravings, which go back 40,000 years. You can also see graffiti by a Roman legionary - the furthest east it has ever been found. The Petroglyphs of Gobustan are artistic chronicles of the past. They bear great importance both for the study of the pre-history of humanity and spheres of primitive art. Gobustans monuments span across a period of approximately 20 thousand years beginning from the end of Upper Palaeolithic till the beginning of our era. Besides that, did you know that about 350 out of the 800 mud volcanoes known in the World are located in Azerbaijan? Most of them are situated near the Gobustan preserve. Some of the volcanoes are considered natural monuments and resources of Azerbaijan. Divankhana, Shirvanshahs Palace, Azerbaijan Ride a Gondola in Baku Boulevard Unwind and breathe in the salty fresh air of the Caspian ocean while you stroll across the Baku Boulevard. Within it, you will find a small Venetian dream made up of a myriad of islands with gondolas sailing through the canals and restaurants dotted across the shore. Mini Venice, 73 Neftchilar Ave, Baku 1004, Azerbaijan Heydar Aliyev Center, Azerbaijan Click Here to Read Best Place to Travel. Soak in the fascinating craftsmanship of Sheki Khan Palace Azerbaijani craftsmen are famed for their Shebeke a mosaic of coloured glass set in wooden latticework and assembled without nails or glue. Consists of 5,000 wooden and glass details in average, Shebeke of Sheki Khan Palace is unique, making it a real visual feast. The perfect ending to the day at the Palace would involve savouring on a lip-smacking meal. Indigenous to the Sheki region, piti is a warm and homely lamb stew. Interestingly, it is also a gustatory delight with the intricate process of separating the broth from the mince, you can personally sprinkle in the spice you prefer and blend it altogether to create that perfect flavour profile. This is sure to take your imagination to the ancient times of Sheki when it was famed for being the key spot to stop at on the silk route. The night cannot end without a chance to bite into the crunchy sweetness of pakhlava. Coated with flakes of golden skin and stuffed with crunchy nuts and filo pastry doused in a delicate sugar syrup, its hard to stop at just one small piece. Sheki, Azerbaijan is a 4.5-hour drive from Baku and you can gobble up some piti at Gagarin restaurant and pakhlava at Aliahmed Sweet House which is a 10-minute drive from Sheki Palace. Goygol City, Azerbaijan Rejuvenate your body and senses Getting messy never felt so therapeutic. Spend the day indulging in therapeutic wellness treatments where the curative properties of crude oil baths (yes soaking in liquid oil) is used to treat musculoskeletal system diseases, as well as neurological, urological, gynaecological, skin and other ailments. Soak up the healing properties of Azerbaijans natural resources and gentle climate with views of the landscape boasting awe-inspiring and vibrant colours at Chinar Hotel & Spa Naftalan, which is a 4-hour drive from Baku. The Naftalan Health Centre, located in Baku is another option for the ones who have limited time, but want to apply this unique treatment. Mud volcano, Azerbaijan Discover Icherisheher The walls of Icherisheher whisper the ancient mysteries of the city. Known as old town or inner city, it is located in the heart of Baku and is a maze of narrow roads spotted with limestone buildings. A sight thats difficult to miss is the Shirvanshahs Palace and Maiden Tower, both listed in UNESCOs World Heritage Sites List. The Palace itself is known as the Pearl of Azerbaijani architecture as it is made up of several different structures built throughout the ages with each adding a beautiful amalgamation of medieval, Asian and Islamic influences. Another mystery is the Maiden Tower. This cylindrical stark tower has baffled historians and to date has theories aplenty about its origins and the exact date of construction. Despite that, it is one of the most iconic structures in the city housing a museum covering the history of Baku and marked around it are beautiful scriptures that hint at the possible roots of this historical feat. It is also home to the International Festival of Arts and regularly showcasing work from innovative artists against its mystic backdrop. Besides that, Icherisheher offers some of the most eccentric and outstanding feats. Nohur Lake, Gabala, Azerbaijan The Museum of Miniature Books, a Guinness Book record-holder, open to all for free, houses the largest number of miniature books at 5,600 and dont forget to spot your national flag to find books from your home country. Another place to stop by is the Ali Shamsi Studio, a wonderland of paintings that transport you to another dimension of reality and mind-boggling installations. You will often find the artist and philosopher Ali Shamsi there who can talk you through the burgeoning art scene in the city. The Azerbaijan Tourism Board (ATB) is a national promotion body established under the State Tourism Agency of the Republic of Azerbaijan. Its main objectives are to support the growth of Azerbaijans tourism industry and encourage visitors to explore the countrys rich cultural offering and experience its ancient heritage. For more information, visit the official Azerbaijan travel website or follow the Experience Azerbaijan pages on social media at. Some morgue attendants were shocked beyond word after 4 women stormed the premises to fight over a corpse they all claim is their husband. Reports have it that the women whose names were simply given as Janet Wambui, Lydia Wanjiru, Susan Wakuthii with the fourth yet to be identified, stormed the Kirinyaga County Funeral Parlour in Kenya to claim the body of a man whose name is given as Peter Mwangi Gichobi. Until his death, he was a boda boda rider. The late 32-year-old taxi driver died in a road accident on Nyangati-Embu road about a month ago. The ladies fought themselves while trying to convince everyone that they were his wife until police officers came over to the morgue to separate them. The deceased had a son with each of the women. The mortuary has however stated that the deceaseds death certificate would be given to his next of kin who was his uncle. Pope Francis was quoted in a Thursday interview with Italian daily, La Repubblica saying There is no hell where the souls of sinners suffer in eternity. The pope who was interviewed by Eugenio Scalfari, a veteran Italian journalist and atheist said: after death, the souls of people who repent are pardoned by God and join in his contemplation. but those who do not repent, and therefore cannot be pardoned, disappear. Hell does not exist what exists is the disappearance of sinful souls, he added. In the past, the veracity of quotes Scalfari(93) attributed to the pope had always been questioned, especially after he admitted to never using a tape recorder during interviews. However, the Vatican has never complained about Scalfaris work, and Francis has continued giving interviews to him. (dpa/NAN) Reno Omokri, a Peoples Democratic Party(PDP) and a critic of the President Muhammadu Buhari led administration has commended him for nomination Godwin Emefiele for a second term in office as Central Bank Of Nigeria(CBN) governor. He added that the move shows that Buhari is listening and slowly shedding his clannish nature. His words: I am a critic of President @ MBuhari because I believe he is inept and tribalistic. However, when he does well, I must commend him. In nominating Godwin Emefiele for a 2nd term, Buhari showed he is listening and is slowly shedding his clannish nature. For that, I commend him His tweet: Nigerian Comedian, Bovi has come to the defence of embattled Nollywood actress, Tonto Dikeh who irked public criticism. Tonto Dikeh stoked the fire of controversy after she accused her ex-husband, Olakunle Churchill of being a fraudster, who uses diabolic means to make money. Also Read: Davido drops beautiful message for second daughter, Hailey on Birthday US based Nigerian music blogger, Ovie who reacted to the controversy had tweeted; A lot of babes know theyre dating/married to scammers, criminals etc, but wont say poo cos theyre enjoying the money, getting flewed out, expensive toys/gifts, living the good life. When things go south, suddenly the guy is the worst human being ever. Good morning o! However Bovi who defended Tonto Dikeh, tweeted in response; Stephen Kefas, a Kaduna based journalist and human rights activist, has been locked up by men of the Rivers State Police Command. According to reports, Kefas was arrested for re-posting an article on Facebook. The journalist, shared an article on SaharaReporters page which talked about the events leading up to the death of Kajuru Monarch, Dr Galadima Maiwada the Agom Of Adara Chiefdom in Kaduna state. Kefas who has always spoken out against Governor Nasir El-Rufai will be transferred to Kaduna in the morning according to orders from above. The Inspector-General of Police, Mohammed Adamu has ordered the immediate transfer of over 6,000 senior policemen and rank and file out of Lagos State. A pan-Yoruba socio-cultural organisation, Omoluwabi Movement, has berated the Kaduna State Governor, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, over his recent verbal attacks on the national leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Asiwaju Bola Tinubu. Daily Times The National Assembly Election Petition Tribunal sitting in Uyo, Akwa Ibom state has rejected the application filed by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) seeking to vacate the order granted by the tribunal authorizing Senator Godswill Akpabio to inspect all election materials. Daily Trust The PDP has denied knowledge of its governors induction and investment retreat purportedly slated for May 16 to 22, 2019, in Dubai. Leadership The group managing director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, Maikanti Baru has revealed that Nigerias deepwater operations have generated revenue exceeding $180 billion (N64.8trn) following industry players capital investment in excess of $65 billion. The Nation A Nigerian lady identified as @Sisi Temi has called out telecommunications giant, Airtel over what she perceives as a tribalistic advert. In the adverts by Airtel, two women, mothers to husband and wife were exhibited as subtle enemies. One was played by actress Ngozi Nwosu, she played the Brides mother, a woman who has evolved, using blenders, autogeles and selfie sticks. The other was played by Idowu Phillips popularly known as Iya Rainbow. She played the Grooms mother who preferred the mortal to blenders, prefers the traditional way of tying gele and ruined the kitchen when she tried to use the blender. The advert was to pass a message that the 4G network is better than 3G. Life evolves, you should too, comes at the end of the adverts. However, a Nigerian lady feels theres more to that. She was concerned about why the Yoruba woman had to play the moronic part. She stated that adverts are a representation of the society and misrepresentation can be internalized by the viewers especially young kids. Read her thread below: An Appeal court sitting in Osun state on Thursday upheld All Progressives Congress(APC) candidate, Isiaka Oyetola as the winner of the 2018 Osun State governorship election. This judgment has sparked a give of reactions among many Nigerian Twitter users. While some are totally in support of the ruling, others have faulted the ruling of the Appeal Court. The court, in its ruling, nullified the declaration of Ademola Adeleke of the Peoples Democratic Party(PDP) by the Osun State Election Petition Tribunal as the winner of the election. Some reactions from Nigerians BREAKING: The Appeal of Governor Oyetola of the APC has succeeded at the Court of Appeal. Comrade Deji Adeyanju (@adeyanjudeji) May 9, 2019 https://twitter.com/ubig1/status/1126459299524423680?s=19 https://twitter.com/PaulPositive4/status/1126456564762726401?s=19 https://twitter.com/Journalist_Mind/status/1126426716145102848?s=19 Barentz acquires Finnish meats industry supplier Barentz International has expanded its activities in the Nordic food industry with the acquisition of Casmo, a specialized distributor of casings, smoke condensates and flavours for the meat industry. This takeover, the company says, gives Barentz a greater diversity of sources for delivering quality solutions for the meat industry, while Casmos suppliers and customers will benefit from the support and knowledge of Barentzs local technical expertise and its strong global network. Casmo is said to be strong in casings and smoke condensates for the meat industry, and its products complement Barentzs broad product portfolio in the food industry, including the meat segment. The takeover will, Barentz believes, generate rapid growth in business for both parties on the Scandinavian market, especially in Denmark and Sweden CEO of Casmo Oy, Juha Luuppala, said: Since its foundation, our company has worked hard to create excellent long-term relationships with our suppliers and customers, and to build on our prominent market position in Finland. The next step for the company includes further expansion on the Scandinavian market with new product launches. Thats where the quality of the Barentz network is crucial. Hidde van der Wal, CEO of Barentz, said: Our strong technical presence in Finland and our local expertise, supported by technical teams and pilot plant facilities, represent a winning combination with Casmos current product portfolio. This takeover is a natural fit that will create strong growth for Casmos customers and suppliers throughout Scandinavia. I am convinced that all parties involved stand to benefit. Saenz was arrested in Malibu at a home on suspicion of brandishing a firearm in 2017, but the matter was not considered for charges after the alleged victims told deputies they did not want to pursue it, a sheriff's spokesman told the Times. Saenz was released within a few hours of being detained. Hub International Limited has announced that it has acquired the assets of RIMS Insurance Brokerage Corporation. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed. Rhode Island-based RIMS Insurance Brokerage Corporation, founded in 1988, offers medical professional liability, life, health, workers compensation, business owners insurance and other coverage. Its focus on the healthcare industry supports Hubs specialty practices, Hub said. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 9) PLDT saw its net income slide by 3% to P6.7 billion in the first quarter of 2019 compared to the same period last year due to lower growth in its investment in a German tech company. The listed telecommunications giant told the Philippine Stock Exchange that its lower income growth for the last quarter was due to lower gain in the valuation of its investment in Rocket Internet compared to the same period last year.. PLDT sold back in May 2018 to Rocket a bulk of its shares for 24 each share, totalling to 163.2 million. Following the sale, the local telco firm retained only 2% of its stake in the German company. Despite a slump in its net income, PLDTs consolidated service revenues, not including interconnection costs, stood 7% higher in the first quarter at P38 billion, compared to the same period last year. PLDT said its individual wireless business, which saw 3.4 million more prepaid subscribers, largely lifted its revenues. Stronger smartphone use is largely driving up PLDTs wireless business, with broadband and data revenues reaching nearly P11 billion and accounting for 65% of wireless revenues. PLDTs home business grew at a moderate pace of 3% in the first quarter compared to the same period last year, due to the Labor Departments ruling on outsourced services and the consequent disruption of repair and installation services since mid-2018. This stalled subscriber growth in the last two months of 2018, but it has picked up in the first quarter of this year. The telcos enterprise business group sustained its growth, rising by 9% to P9.8 billion, mainly driven by PLDTs ICT services which climbed by 26% to P1.1 billion due to the growth of cloud and cybersecurity services. Individual wireless, home and enterprise businesses of PLDT now account for 94% of the telcos total service revenues, reaching P35.8 billion. Meanwhile, the income of PLDTs core telco group rose by 6% to P7.2 billion compared to the same period last year. PLDT is looking to strengthen revenue growth by using 5G technology and improving fiber-powered broadband services We are transitioning our focus and effort from placing the company back on the growth path into initiatives that should raise the business to the next level. There are still rough patches, such as the operational snags that our home business encountered. But our agenda now is clearly to elevate our game, PLDT and Smart chairman and chief executive officer Manuel Pangilinan said. Kevin Hutchinson, 22, is recovering at his parents' home in New Lenox. Hutchinson went into cardiac arrest two weeks ago while at a friend's off-campus apartment at Illinois State University and was later airlifted to Advocate Christ Medical Center in Oak Lawn. He graduates with a finance degree from ISU on May 11. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune) ASL is a wholesale insurance brokerage founded in 1996. Aside from its headquarters in Virginia, the company also has additional locations in Florida, Louisiana, New York, Pennsylvania and Texas. ASLs specialized lines of business include general liability, commercial property, commercial package, professional liability, and personal lines. Following the close of the transaction, the ASL team will become part of R-T Specialty (RT Specialty) Ryan Specialty Groups wholesale brokerage unit. The addition of ASL expands RT Specialtys footprint in the Mid-Atlantic and Southeast regions, and is a step along the units national binding authority strategy, a release said. We are thrilled to have the ASL team become a part of RT Specialty. Their level of service and expertise is exceptional. ASL is the perfect player to expand in the Mid-Atlantic and Southeast, said RT Specialty CEO Tim Turner in a statement. We are excited to be joining forces with RT Specialty and collaborating with like-minded professionals. The opportunities for both ASL and RT are huge, commented ASL chief operating officer Seth Johnson. Johnson commented that the cultures of both ASL and RT Specialty are very similar, with both companies sharing a passion for the business and the same goal to provide the best solution to clients. Investigators from the Orange County Sheriffs Office have charged a 56- year-old New York man with grand larceny in the third degree, a class D felony, and penalties for fraudulent practices, a class E felony. Robert Marra of Crawford, N.Y., was arrested as a result of a collaborative investigation conducted by members of the New York State Department of Financial Services, the Orange County District Attorneys Office and the Orange County Sheriffs Office. Abusing the workers compensation system is a crime that victimizes all honest New Yorkers who contribute part of their paycheck to help employees injured while on the job, New York State Department of Financial Services spokesperson Linda Lacewell stated in a press release issued by the Orange County Sheriffs Office. The investigation revealed that Marra, who is deemed to be fully disabled, falsely reported the extent of his injuries to doctors and independent medical examiners. He has since participated in approximately 12 Spartan-style races that are comprised of strenuous activities. Some of the activities involved were spear throw, horizontal wall traverse, barbed wire crawl, wall jumps, rope climb, bucket carry, inverted wall, rolling mud and burpees. In addition to those activities, Marra participated in a strenuous Ibex Hunt, in Spain, that requires good physical conditioning due to the difficulty of the terrain. As a result of the false claim of disability, Marra received $33,700 in benefits from the New York State Workers Compensation fund that he was not entitled to. Marra was arraigned before the Honorable Judge Clarino, of Newburgh Town Court, and released on his own recognizance pending a future court appearance in the Town of Crawford Court. This successful, collaborative effort has resulted in ending a fraud that was perpetrated on a fund resource that was designed to aid those who have legitimate disabilities, Orange County Sheriff Carl E. DuBois stated in the release. A criminal charge is merely an allegation by the police that a defendant has committed a violation of the criminal law, and it is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial, during which it will be the State of New Yorks responsibility to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. Source: Orange County Sheriffs Office Topics Workers' Compensation Fraud Talent New York Allianz SE won shareholder approval for its new policy on management-board pay, avoiding the sort of investor backlash seen at some European firms in recent years. The German insurer proposed increasing the importance of fixed salary and long-term incentives in its first changes to remuneration policy since 2010. The plan passed easily at the firms annual general meeting on Wednesday with 92 percent of the votes cast. The new policy was put in place partly in response to European Union legislation intended to enhance shareholders rights. This includes a say on pay that allows investors to vote on the compensation awarded to company directors. While the rules wont be binding until theyre enshrined in German law, Allianz decided to move ahead with the changes now. Executive pay is an increasingly contentious issue in Europe. In the U.K., the Investment Association has found that shareholders are more likely to vote against management on this issue than on any other. The trade group keeps a tally of shareholder rebellions, which it defines as 20 percent or more of a companys shares voting against the wishes of management. About 38 percent of revolts in 2017 were over executive pay, compared with 32 percent seeking to block the re-election of directors, according to the group. Allianz Chief Executive Officer Oliver Baete received a total payout of 10.3 million euros ($11.5 million) last year, more than double his 2017 remuneration, according to the insurers annual report. Helga Jung, Allianzs head of mergers and acquisitions, got 6.75 million euros. All 10 directors received more than 2 million euros each including the cost of providing their pensions. Copyright 2021 Bloomberg. Topics Europe Allianz Guy Carpenter & Co., the global risk and reinsurance specialist and a wholly owned subsidiary of Marsh & McLennan Cos., announced a series of international leadership appointments to facilitate the integration of Jardine Lloyd Thompson Group plc, which was acquired by Marsh on April 1. The appointments, effective immediately, reflect Guy Carpenters (GC) efforts to align the firms structure, to integrate the capabilities of JLT Re and to create a leadership team that enhances the companys ability to deliver strategic services, solutions and value to clients. The leadership team announcements follow: London North America. Kevin Fisher has been appointed as chairman of London North America, in addition to his previously announced role as chairman of UK and Global Specialties. He will continue reporting to Peter Hearn, president & CEO of Guy Carpenter. Global Capital Solutions. Vicky Carter, currently chairman of Global Strategic Advisory, has been appointed chairman of Global Capital Solutions, International. She will continue reporting to Hearn and will work closely with David Priebe, vice chairman of Guy Carpenter and head of the Global Capital Solutions Group to bring the units offerings to clients around the world. The Global Capital Solutions Group is comprised of GC Securities, led by Shiv Kumar, and Global Risk Solutions (formerly known as Global Capital Solutions), led by Ed Hochberg. Global Specialties. James Boyce will continue in his role as CEO of Global Specialties, reporting to Hearn. Bradley Maltese has taken up his recently appointed role as vice chairman of Global Specialties, reporting to Boyce. Each Global Specialties segment will have a leader reporting to Boyce, as well as a senior leadership team responsible for advancing the business and the integration of clients and colleagues. Global Specialties consists of the following units: Marine & Energy will continue to be led by Jim Summers. The senior leadership team will be comprised of Graham Devlin, Nick Jay and Martin Stephenson. Aviation & Aerospace will continue to be led by Ian Wrigglesworth. The senior leadership will be comprised of Graham Barden, Paul Smith, Barry Stiff and Martin Stoney. Non-Marine Specialties will continue to be led by Richard Morgan. The senior leadership team will be comprised of Bill Bennett, Richard Carver, Paul Esterbrook, Stephen Firmin, Roland Morse, Simon Sharpe and Dean Smith. Trade Credit & Political Risk will be co-led by David Edwards and Ashley De Laroque. David Edwards will focus on the production and servicing of international clients working closely with the wider International platform. Ashley De Laroque will focus on the production and servicing of London market clients. International. James Nash will continue in his role as CEO of International, reporting to Hearn. The following business units and leaders will report to Nash: Carolyn Morley and Ian Kerton will co-lead a newly combined unit which will bring together the capabilities of the Global Casualty and UK Property & Casualty teams. Carolyn Morley will lead the Global Casualty business, driving global production. Ian Kerton will lead the drive for growth in the London market, and maintain responsibility for South Africa. Jonathan Fahie has been appointed chief operating officer for this unit. Charles Whitmore will continue in his role as head of the Placement Solutions Group. Shaun Scade will continue in his role as head of Accident & Health. Massimo Reina will continue in his role as CEO of Continental Europe & Middle East. Tony Gallagher will continue in his role as CEO of Asia Pacific and Jeremy Fox has moved into his previously announced role as Chairman of Asia Pacific. Aidan Pope, CEO of Latin America & Caribbean, plans to retire from Guy Carpenter. Pope will stay for a period to ensure the successful completion of the renewal season and the transition of leadership. In its statement, Guy Carpenter included a thanks to Pope for his 10 years of service and wished him the best in his retirement A Latin America & Caribbean senior leadership group has also been created to handle the integration of JLT Re clients and colleagues, the production of new business and the servicing of existing clients. In the interim this group will report to James Nash and will be composed of Roberto Cauldron, Pedro Farme, Erik Lakatos and Anthony Mirabal. In addition, after more than 40 years of leadership in the reinsurance business, Ross Howard, vice chairman of Guy Carpenter, plans to retire later this year. In the interim he will continue to support the companys integration efforts and ensure the combined business delivers maximum value. Our focus throughout the integration is building a structure that allows our firm and our colleagues to deliver the full value of the combined organization to clients, said Peter Hearn, president and CEO of Guy Carpenter. We are confident that we have the right structure, leaders and teams in place to deliver on Guy Carpenters commitment to its clients: to identify opportunity in risk that will drive profitable growth. Hearn thanked Howard for his partnership during the integration process, his advocacy for colleagues and clients across the organization and his contribution to the reinsurance industry over the past 42 years. Source: Guy Carpenter Related: Topics Reinsurance Leadership London Lloyds announced it is investing in Layr, a cloud-based commercial insurance platform for small businesses looking to purchase liability insurance. The investment follows Layrs successful trial in the Lloyds Lab, which gives insurtech startups the opportunity to work with Lloyds market experts to develop their ideas as well as potential funding. Lloyds Lab last week welcomed a second cohort of 12 insurtech startups. Layr, which is based in Atlanta, Ga., participated in the first cohort of the Lloyds Lab and used the opportunity to test its cloud-based solution for providing faster access for small businesses. (The first cohort of Lloyds Lab was held from September to December last year). The Lloyds investment will help Layr further develop its solution. Layr is also exploring potential distribution opportunities with several Lloyds syndicates. The platform bypasses carriers application programming interfaces (APIs) and instead uses its proprietary price and appetite prediction engine to match business with the right policies from the right carrier at the right price, explained Lloyds in a statement. Lloyds said this allows Layr to provide indications for more lines of coverage across more industries in real time. Unlike comparison engines or aggregators, the startup uses artificial intelligence and machine learning to compare an applicant against clusters of similar small businesses. Companies will find out not only the coverage they need and the best price to pay for it, but also what coverage similar businesses purchase. Another success story from the first Lloyds Lab cohort came from Denver-based Parsyl, which is a supply chain data platform that combines low-cost sensing hardware and large scale data mining to allow insurers to better anticipate risk and improve the claims process. In December six Lloyds syndicates subscribed to use Parsyls internet-of-things solution, offering crafted risk coverage for sensitive shipments. On April 29, Lloyds Lab started working with a second cohort of 12 teams selected from more than 250 applicants. The 10-week program will run until July 3 when startups will have the opportunity to showcase their products to potential investors. The selected teams were chosen in a two-step competitive application process with the best 22 startups presenting their ideas to experts across the market during pitch day. The current list of startups that will be working with the Lloyds innovation accelerator include technological and data driven solutions to help better understand risks; make claim processes faster, and facilitate wider access to insurance. Lloyds Lab provides us with an exceptional environment to test and accelerate the implementation of new technological solutions, said Lloyds CEO, John Neal. I am delighted that syndicates have teamed up with Parsyl and Lloyds itself has invested in Layr following the Labs first cohort, and I am looking forward to seeing what solutions emerge from the second cohort. Lloyds is in a unique position to drive innovation within the insurance market and the success stories coming from our first cohort confirm that, said Lloyds Head of Innovation Trevor Maynard. I am delighted by the breadth of experience and ideas of this new cohort, and by how the startups have strived to make their innovative solutions relevant to the Lloyds market, he added. Modern business owners do everything online, so Layr is the natural evolution for small business insurance, said Layr CEO Phillip Naples. We feel validated that the worlds oldest and most respected insurance marketplace agrees and recognises that the technology were creating is the future of small commercial distribution. Source: Lloyds Related: Topics InsurTech Commercial Lines Excess Surplus Business Insurance Lloyd's Data Driven Startups CNA Hardy, a specialist commercial insurance provider for clients within the Lloyds and company markets, announced significant enhancements to its cyber proposition with a new pre-breach service and additional coverages. Our latest cyber proposition reflects the changing risk environment. Technology adoption creates new exposures, and cyber criminals are becoming more sophisticated, said David Legassick, head of Cyber, Tech & Life Science. In response, our policy has been updated and now includes impersonation fraud/social engineering, which is one of the biggest exposures facing businesses today because it preys on the human weaknesses and mistakes, he added. As part of its expanded cyber proposition, CNA Hardy is now offering UK policyholders access to a leading website security partner, GamaSec. Our new pre-breach partner, GamaSec, will ensure that policyholders are able to protect their business from cyber threats. Our focus is on proactive loss prevention and minimizing the exposures that our policyholders face, instead of just risk mitigation, said Legassick. GamaSec is a pre-breach tool designed to prevent cyber attacks. We use cutting edge virtual hacker technology to identify and eradicate dangerous malware threats and website application vulnerabilities, said Avi Bartov, founder and CEO of GamaSec. We are proud to be working with CNA Hardy, their cyber policyholders can access GamaSec for no additional charge. Its easy to use and theres no coding or software to install, added Bartov. CNA Hardy said GamaSec joins an existing suite of pre-breach partner services, including penetration testing and cyber security analysis through to cyber security education. Extensive breach assistance and post-breach response partner services are also available, such as forensic investigators, legal services, crisis management and public relations expertise and credit checking agency. CNA Hardy said it is one of the few insurance carriers that provide retroactive cover from when the cyber breach first occurred, regardless of how long the hackers were in the system, undiscovered. Other highlights include: General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) actions and fines with 20 million coverage available. (Punitive fines are not covered). No-excess-for-breach-response provision and up to 15 percent of the claim amount to cover any improvements and fixes that will avoid the same cyber incident from occurring again. Explaining this provision, a company representative noted that if an incident occurs and immediate support is needed then a CNA Hardy breach partner will deliver its expert services with no excess payment required. This provides policyholders with immediate access to a vetted expert service in the event of a suspected or actual cyber incident, without the fear of an excess being applicable for these services with the client funding the first amount. If policyholders choose to use a different supplier which they can then an excess payment may be required. These cyber solution enhancements are now available to both new and existing cyber policyholders in the UK, said the company, noting that they also will be rolled out to new and existing policyholders across Continental Europe and CNA Canada in the near future. Source: CNA Hardy Topics Cyber Excess Surplus Hub International Ltd., the Chicago-based global insurance broker, announced it has acquired the assets of Kelliher Agencies, headquartered in Kelliher, Saskatchewan, Canada. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed. Kelliher Agencies is a full service, independent insurance brokerage that provides personal, commercial, farm and specialty products insurance. Its focus on the agribusiness industry supports Hubs specialty practices by complementing and strengthening Hubs existing capabilities. Craig Bolton, co-owner of Kelliher Agencies, will join HUB International Manitoba Ltd. Source: Hub International Ltd. Topics Mergers Agencies Starr Insurance Companies and SkyWatch Ltd. have expanded the SkyWatch.AI drone insurance program to allow drone operators to purchase insurance from Starr through a SkyWatch.AI link, which will be available on select aviation brokers websites. According to Jim Anderson, senior vice president, Starr Aviation, the new platform allows qualifying commercial operators to obtain coverage within minutes at any time. The coverage has previously just been available to drone pilots through the SkyWatch.AI mobile app, said Tomer Kashi, chief executive officer of SkyWatch.AI., who noted it is now available to more drone pilots, including ones that would like to continue working with their existing brokers. SkyWatch.AI is a data analytics platform offering drone pilots insurance coverage. The SkyWatch platform uses machine learning to assess the risk and mitigate it. Insurance is provided by SkyWatch Insurance Services, Inc. a licensed insurance broker in all U.S. states where SkyWatch operates and is underwritten by Starr Insurance Companies. Starr Insurance Companies (or Starr) is a marketing name for the operating insurance and travel assistance companies and subsidiaries of Starr International Company, Inc. and for the investment business of C. V. Starr & Co., Inc. and its subsidiaries. Topics Agencies InsurTech Data Driven The Trump administration on Wednesday said it will require drug makers to disclose the list price of prescription drugs in direct-to-consumer television advertisements, part of the governments efforts to lower costs for U.S. consumers. The list price would be included if it is equal to or greater than $35 for a months supply or the usual course of therapy. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) said that the 10 most commonly advertised drugs have list prices ranging from $488 to $16,938 per month or usual course of therapy. The vast majority of Americans struggling to afford their drugs are put in that position because they are paying based on high list prices, HHS Secretary Alex Azar said in a press briefing. Azar said that the TV advertising requirement would work to drive down list prices alongside a recently proposed rule aimed at requiring that drug rebates, or discounts, be passed on to Medicare patients when they buy the drugs. The advertising rule, which was finalized on Wednesday, will take effect in about 60 days. It was originally suggested as part of President Donald Trumps blueprint to lower U.S. drug prices last May. Health and Human Services said that enforcement of the rule would be done by competitors, who can sue under the Lanham Act, a 1946 U.S. law that prohibits false advertising. Those suits would accuse drugmakers of false advertising if they do not include the information, because they would be implicitly suggesting that their product costs less than $35 a month. Azar said the agency settled on the $35 a month benchmark because that is a common copayment paid by patients filling their monthly prescriptions. Most drug companies have argued against the proposed rule, saying list prices do not reflect the final amount paid by patients as it excludes rebates and discounts drugmakers may offer. But Johnson & Johnson has already started including the list price as well as potential out of pocket costs in some of its ads. Under the new rule, the ads can include language saying that if patients have health insurance that covers drugs, their costs may be different. The Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA), the industrys top U.S. lobbying group, said in October that including the list price in commercials could discourage patients from seeking needed medical care. The group did not immediately comment on the finalized rule. (Reporting by Caroline Humer and Michael Erman in New York; Additional reporting by Ankur Banerjee in Bengaluru; Editing by Sriraj Kalluvila, Andrea Ricci and Steve Orlofsky) Topics USA Drugs The jury in Bayer AGs third Roundup weedkiller trial was urged by a plaintiffs lawyer to consider socking the company with $1 billion in damages as punishment for covering up the health risks of the herbicide for decades. The aggressive demand on behalf an elderly couple who claim they got cancer from exposure to Roundup shows that plaintiffs are becoming bolder after winning the first two trials against Bayer, which together yielded $159 million in damages. The couples attorney said the billion-dollar request is roughly based on the gross profit of $892 million recorded in 2017 by the agricultural-chemicals division of Monsanto, which was making Roundup long before Bayer acquired the company last year. That is a number that changes things, lawyer Brent Wisner said Wednesday at the close of a trial in state court in Oakland, California. He also asked the jury to award about $55 million to compensate Alva and Alberta Pilliod for economic damages like hospital bills and noneconomic losses such as pain and suffering. Investors have been closely watching developments in the costly Roundup litigation, and Bayer fell as much as 2.6% Thursday in Frankfurt. The shares have fallen about 40 percent since the $63 billion Monsanto purchase was completed in June. Wisner argued that Monsantos internal data and documents reveal its manipulation and fabrication of science, just like other defective products that got to market based on fraudulent representations that they were safe. An attorney for the company sought Wednesday to poke holes in the Pilliods efforts to show that they wouldnt have developed non-Hodgkin lymphoma if they hadnt used Roundup for landscaping their properties over a period of 30 years. Tarek Ismail told the jury thats an impossible, illogical conclusion given that Alva Pilliods weakened immune system greatly increased his risk of developing cancer. Digging into Pilliods medical history, Ismail cited 22 different types of skin cancers starting in his 20s, five brain infections starting in the late 1970s caused by herpes, other viral infections and colitis. You put this picture together and what do you see? Ismail asked. How anyone can stand here and deny this evidence of a weakened immune system is incredible. Weed Killer Chemical Glyphosate Is Not a Cancer Agent, Says EPA, Contradicting Juries Alberta Pilliod, who Ismail said started smoking before she was 20 years old, similarly suffered from conditions that increased her risk of developing non-Hodgkins lymphoma, the lawyer said. He highlighted testimony from a doctor for the couple to argue her cancerous tumor wasnt a type associated with exposure to herbicides, full stop. Bayer Chief Executive Officer Werner Baumann faces increased shareholder pressure over the litigation it inherited from Monsanto. The agrochemical giant that operates out of St. Louis is the named defendant in U.S. lawsuits over Roundup filed by 13,400 people, a number that jumps by thousands with each passing quarter. Bayer Denial Bayer denies that Roundup causes cancer and the company has been holding out hope for a court win that would give Baumann some breathing space as the company hones its legal response to the swelling wave of litigation. A third loss, however, could force the company to accelerate talks on a global settlement, which analysts have said could top $5 billion. The judge in San Francisco handling the federal suits canceled a trial scheduled for May 20 to allow for confidential negotiations. Plaintiffs lawyers, meanwhile, are honing their own arguments. In Oakland, Wisner presented evidence previous juries hadnt seen, and portrayed internal emails and company advertising as evidence of glib disregard for consumer safety. He played a video of an advertisement for Roundup showing a suburban man in shorts and a short-sleeved shirt killing weeds using the companys one-touch wand to a soundtrack invoking the Old West. He pointed to Monsantos own exposure studies recommending that the herbicide be applied with chemical boots and overalls. Thats deliberate and knowing disregard for human safety, and it directly links to the Pilliods, Wisner said. An award of $1 billion would be vulnerable to a legal challenge by Bayer because courts have generally held that punitive damages shouldnt be more than 10 times higher than compensatory damages. The Oakland case is Pilliod v. Monsanto Co. RG17862702, California Superior Court, County of Alameda (Oakland). Related: Copyright 2021 Bloomberg. Topics Pollution AJs death has rattled the agency, which had repeated contact with his family starting before he was born with opiates in his system in 2013, authorities have said. His parents have been charged with murder, accused of fatally beating him and burying his body in a shallow graver near Woodstock. AJs death follows several other high-profile cases across the state in which children died because of abuse or neglect despite previous monitoring by DCFS. Coalition, a San Francisco-based cyber insurance agency for small and midsize businesses, said it has closed a $40 million funding round. Ribbit Capital led the investment with participation from Greenoaks Capital and Hillhouse Capital. With this new funding, Coalition said it will expand its global, internet-scale data platform, which analyzes hundreds of millions of data points to assess organizations risk within minutes. Coalition said it will scale its global platform to provide cybersecurity risk management tools to any organization for free. In addition to cyber security tools and incident response services, Coalition also offers cyber and technology insurance coverage up to $10 million that is backed by Swiss Re Corporate Solutions and Argo Group in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Coalition vows to change the way businesses manage cyber risk through its platform that underwrites risk based on the real time indicators that an attacker would use and a real capability to assist during a claim. According to Joshua Motta, CEO and co-founder at Coalition, cyber losses cost the global economy an estimated $1.5 trillion each year, forcing thousands of small land medium-sized business to close their doors after experiencing a security failure. Outdated approaches to cybersecurity arent working, he said. While companies cant eliminate cyber risk, they can eliminate the cost of it. Q&A with Founder: Coalition, a Cyber Insurer and Cybersecurity Firm, Makes Its Debut The new investment will also be used to expand Coalitions engineering and incident response team over the next year. The cyber security industry is massive, at over $100 billion in revenue, yet security providers fail to eliminate breaches on behalf of their clients. By contrast, the cyber insurance industry, which actually shares the incentives of its customers to prevent breaches, is only $4 billion today. The relative size of these two markets should be inverted, said Nick Shalek, general partner at Ribbit Capital. Source: Coalition Related: Topics Cyber Funding Emergency responders in Texas rescued numerous people from rising floodwaters Tuesday as a strong storm battered the Houston area with heavy rain, inundating homes and leaving motorists stranded just two years Hurricane Harvey devastated the area. As much as 10 inches (254 millimeters) of rain had fallen on some areas around the nations fourth largest city by Tuesday night, with waters rising above the axles of cars as firefighters and police worked to evacuate some homes and rescue people from vehicles on impassable roads. Flash flood warnings were issued across multiple counties and the National Weather Service warned that storms could continue to deluge areas along the states Gulf Coast with rain later into the week. In Sugar Land, a suburb about 22 miles (35 kilometers) southwest of Houston, more than 7 inches of rain fell in four hours making all major roadways impassable, city officials said in a tweet advising residents to seek high ground. Some Houston-area students had to spend the night at school after flooded roads prevented buses from leaving and parents from reaching their children. Most of the approximately 1,500 students at an elementary school in Cleveland, northeast of Houston, were able to leave by the end of the day after being stranded for a time Tuesday as up to 10 inches (254 millimeters) of rain swamped the region. However, the school district says about 60 students stayed overnight. The Red Cross opened a shelter at a church in Kingwood, a planned community 28 miles (45 kilometers) northeast of downtown Houston that was especially hard hit by the storm, according to the Harris County Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management. The agency issued a level three alert Tuesday and warned that high water levels in the areas rivers and bayous will become a threat until the accumulated rain drains to the Gulf of Mexico. But a spokesman also told the Houston Chronicle that this is not in any way a Harvey-level event. The storms soaked part of Texas that have been repeatedly hit by flooding in recent years. Hurricane Harvey, which made landfall as a Category 4 storm on Aug. 25, 2017, killed 68 people and caused an estimated $125 billion in damage in Texas. In the Houston area, Harvey caused 36 deaths and flooded more than 150,000 homes. The rain this week coincides with the trial in a major case to determine whether residents are entitled to compensation from the federal government after their homes and businesses were flooded by two federally-owned reservoirs during Harvey. Copyright 2021 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Topics Texas Flood President Donald Trump blamed congressional Democrats for a lagging federal response to the hurricane-ravaged Florida Panhandle on Wednesday, declaring that his political opponents care more about investigating his administration than funding storm relief. Trump held a campaign rally in Panama City Beach, where Hurricane Michael struck last year as a category 5 storm. He promised $448 million in disaster relief from the Housing and Urban Development Department, on top of what he said was more than $10 billion committed to storm recovery in Florida. Before the rally, he toured Tyndall Air Force Base, which is situated on a barrier island across the bay and is still being rebuilt after being heavily damaged by Hurricane Michael. Disaster response is a soft spot for Trump as he enters his re-election campaign. He has come under fire from Puerto Rico officials and their congressional allies for what they say has been an inadequate federal role in the recovery from Hurricane Maria, which devastated the territory in September 2017. The president has responded by repeatedly, and erroneously, claiming that the government provided $91 billion for Puerto Ricos recovery, and has alleged without substantiation that some of the money has been lost to corruption. Puerto Rico got $91 billion, he said again on Wednesday, pulling a chart from his coat pocket that he said showed storm-related funding for the territory compared to other parts of the country struck by hurricanes, including Houston and Floridas panhandle. Youre getting your money one way or another and were not going to let anybody hold it up, he said. The Democrats are trying to stop it, but youre going to get it. Dont worry. A disaster recovery bill that would provide the Defense Department with $857 million to rebuild Tyndall has been stuck in Congress, in part because of disagreements over providing more money for Puerto Rico. The territorial government says that about $11.4 billion has been earmarked for Maria recovery by the Federal Emergency Management Agency and that its received about $5.7 billion so far. Yet even that bill wouldnt provide the Pentagon what it needs, according to Shana Udvardy, a climate resilience analyst at the Union of Concerned Scientists. Damage from Michael has hamstrung the base, which houses a squadron of the nations most advanced fighter planes, the F-35. When we think about how much Tyndall itself needs for recovery, that $857 million is kind of a drop in the bucket, Udvardy said. She cited an estimate that Tyndall, along with Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune in North Carolina and Offutt Air Force Base in Nebraska, require some $8 billion to recover from hurricane and flood damage last year and this year. Slow Recovery The pace of Floridas recovery from Michael has been slow in part because of Michaels intensity and the fact that it struck one of the poorest and most rural places in the state, said Leslie Chapman-Henderson, president and chief executive of the Federal Alliance for Safe Homes, a safety advocacy group. Politico reported that Florida Republicans warned Trump not to show up for his Panama City Beach rally without an announcement of new aid for the region. Panama Citys city manager, Mark McQueen, said the city lost or suffered damage to 90% of its houses and buildings in Hurricane Michael. The cost of debris removal combined with emergency measures such as providing water and health care in the storms immediate aftermath totaled about $153 million. The city has a $91 million annual budget. City officials have asked the federal government to reimburse 90% of the costs instead of the usual 75%. The citys mayor, Greg Brudnicki, was to meet with Trump on Wednesday. We certainly could use the federal governments help and President Trumps authority to change that reimbursement rate, McQueen said. That would immensely help the city meet its financial obligations. Trump announced at the beginning of his rally that we will have the federal government pay for 90% of the costs in many circumstances. We can do that because of the incredible devastation and the size of that storm. FEMA has obligated $152 million in state and local public assistance grants for Florida related to Hurricane Michael, according to information the agency has posted on its website. It has also approved $143 million in aid to individuals and families, and provided repair grants to 27,000 households. The agency didnt immediately respond to a request for the number of houses that have so far been repaired. Maintenance Money While it waits for more funding from Congress, the Air Force has been drawing down its regular maintenance funds to pay for repairs at Tyndall, according to John Conger, who oversaw energy, installations and environmental policy at the Department of Defense. You pay for it by using money that you were going to use later in the year, said Conger, who is now director of the Center for Climate and Security in Washington. They need this disaster emergency appropriations bill desperately. The Air Force secretary, Heather Wilson, said March 27 that recovery efforts at Tyndall would cease by May 1 if Congress didnt pass a supplemental spending bill, according to the Pensacola News Journal. The damage to Tyndall illustrates the militarys exposure to climate change, said Alice Hill, who was in charge of resilience at the National Security Council under President Barack Obama. She said neither the Department of Defense nor the White House have done enough to address that threat. Because our nation has been engaged in a political debate over whether climate change is occurring, it has slowed the preparations of the Department of Defense, said Hill, now a research fellow at Stanford Universitys Hoover Institution. The nation should be quite concerned. Copyright 2021 Bloomberg. Topics Catastrophe Florida Windstorm Hurricane May 9, 2019 (Investorideas.com Newswire) Scientists say we see the adverse effects of climate change everywhere - in weather patterns, throughout plant and animal habitats, across farmland, on the polar caps, and in the oceans. Numerous studies have concluded dire consequences for the planet unless the right solutions are implemented. And now comes a report painting a particularly bleak picture: one million of the planet's eight million species are threatened with extinction by humans. Climate change, shrinking habitat, and pollution were blamed in the report by the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services, a United Nations committee, as the main reasons for species loss. What are the solutions? Is climate change as dangerous and imminent a threat as scientists say? Dr. Paul Zeitz, an epidemiologist and the senior policy advisor with the Healthy Climate Alliance (www.drpaulzeitz.org), says there's no time to waste, and that "climate restoration" legislation would mark the beginning of the solutions. "Our failing planetary health requires bold political action to ensure our planet is habitable for future generations," says Zeitz, author of Waging Justice: A Doctor's Journey To Speak Truth And Be Bold. "Legislation is being developed to promote the removal of excess carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, and to prevent catastrophic methane release from the melting of the Arctic. "Multiple methods are currently available to achieve these actions and restore a safe and healthy climate for ourselves and future generations. We must call for the passage of comprehensive legislation at the federal, state and local levels to rapidly accelerate climate restoration." Zeitz explains three methods that could assist in climate restoration: Carbon sequestration for a commercial market. Massive amounts of rock, sourced from quarries, are used annually for infrastructure construction. If the rock was sourced from carbon dioxide instead, Zeitz says, that action would sequester large amounts of carbon dioxide away from the atmosphere. "Companies, such as Blue Planet Ltd, are developing commercially viable ways to remove excess carbon dioxide from the atmosphere by turning it into limestone aggregate for concrete," Zeitz says. "This method can scale to remove a trillion tons of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere within 30 to 40 years." Fishery restoration. "This combines poverty reduction and community empowerment with carbon sequestration," Zeitz says. "There are massive stretches of ocean that are nutrient-limited due to climate change. If we supplement nutrients, then we promote photosynthesis and build up fisheries. That, in turn, allows for carbon sequestration in the deep ocean. A pilot project in Madagascar commences this summer that involves nutrient supplementation as a foundation for fisheries restoration." Restoring Arctic ice. Researchers at Ice911 Research have spent 10 years creating, testing and refining floating glass spheres that act as a reflective layer on the Arctic ice. "These spheres get spread across the ice in the spring and act as fresh snow - a highly reflective surface - during the 24 hours of daylight experienced in the summertime," Zeitz says. "This allows the ice to remain through the summer, which, in turn, enables the ice to thicken and become more durable over time." "If we take bold action in the next several years to implement the range of solutions described, we will be able to reduce the most devastating impacts of the climate crisis," Zeitz says. "And we can do our best to ensure that our children and future generations can survive and thrive." About Dr. Paul Zeitz Dr. Paul Zeitz (www.drpaulzeitz.org) is a physician, epidemiologist, and an award-winning advocate for global justice and human rights. He is serving as the senior policy advisor with the Healthy Climate Alliance, which focuses on climate restoration, and is the author of Waging Justice: A Doctor's Journey To Speak Truth And Be Bold. Dr. Zeitz worked at the U.S. Department of State from 2014-17 as the Director of the Data Revolution for Sustainable Development. He also led the Global AIDS Alliance. Dr. Zeitz received his doctorate in osteopathic medicine from the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, his MA in public health and preventive medicine residency at Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health. PR Contact: Terry Stanton: 727-443-7115 ext. 223 tstanton@newsandexperts.com More Info: This news is published on the Investorideas.com Newswire - a global digital news source for investors and business leaders Disclaimer/Disclosure: Investorideas.com is a digital publisher of third party sourced news, articles and equity research as well as creates original content, including video, interviews and articles. Original content created by investorideas is protected by copyright laws other than syndication rights. 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Please read Investorideas.com privacy policy: https://www.investorideas.com/About/Private_Policy.asp Apple has finalised a short list of locations for its first retail store in India. The company is redoubling its efforts in the worlds fastest-growing smartphone market. The iPhone giant has zeroed in on several upscale sites in Mumbai and plans to make a final decision in the next few weeks. Apple has been prohibited from opening its own stores in India, because it doesnt meet local sourcing requirements, but it is shifting manufacturing into the country and is in talks with the government about its retail expansion. The iPhone maker has struggled to establish itself in India, where consumers have opted for less-expensive Chinese brands, such as Xiaomi and Vivo. But chief executive Tim Cook has vowed to improve in the fast-growing market, especially as Apple loses ground in China. Manufacturing in India will also allow the company to sidestep 20% tariffs on imported phones, making its devices more competitive. India is a very important market in the long-term, Mr Cook said, after the companys earnings report last week. Its a challenging market in the short-term, but were learning a lot. We plan on going in there with sort of all of our might. Apple doesnt break out its revenue from India, since it is such a minor part of the business. In the most recent quarter, the company generated 44% of revenue from the Americas and 18% from greater China. India is lumped in with the rest of Asia-Pacific, which, altogether, account for 6%. Apple has tried to gain ground as India has eclipsed China as the fastest-growing smartphone market in the world. One Apple veteran took over as country chief at the end of 2017, overhauling its strategy and replacing top sales executives. But with little sign of progress, a new country chief was named in November. Still, Apple continues to flounder in India. Research firm Canalys estimates the companys shipments fell by 75% in the first quarter of 2019, giving it only 1% of the countrys smartphone market. Now, Apple appears to be doing the difficult and expensive work of building a foundation for its business. Foxconn Technology, its most important manufacturing partner, is running quality tests for the iPhone XR series in India and plans to begin mass production at a facility in the suburbs of Chennai. Older models are already assembled at a Wistron plant in Bangalore. Its own retail store might be just what Apple requires to reinforce its premium image, said Rushabh Doshi, an analyst with Canalys. A store just before the next launch will be the perfect timing for Apple to restart its Indian growth story. he said. Its clear Mr Cook wont give up against Chinese phone-makers. Tim Cook Indeed, last month, Apple ran front-page newspaper ads, announcing sizable discounts on the latest iPhone XR. It rarely slashes prices on its latest models, but has offered a markdown of 17,000 rupees (218) on its latest iPhone XR, bringing the price down to 59,900 rupees. This week, online retailer Paytm Mall announced cash paybacks on a variety of iPhone models. The price cuts are definitely a step in the right direction, said Mr Doshi. Apple has a delicate balance to maintain: It needs to appeal to the cost-conscious Indian buyers, while ensuring that price drops do not dilute its premium image. Bloomberg Energy firm SSE said it would cut jobs in its customer service and metering teams in Britain as the company faces a perfect storm of stiff competition, higher costs and a cap on how much it can charge. Britain and Irelands largest trade union Unite said SSE would cut 444 jobs, or around 5% of employees, in its retail business, blaming a lack of interest from customers for the smart meter devices that could help cut energy emissions. Britain has a goal to roll out around 50 million smart meters to almost 30 million homes by the end of 2020. However, customers have been put off by early teething problems and issues with some of the first meters inability to function if households switched suppliers. SSE said it was offering voluntary redundancy, without specifying how many jobs would be lost. The Irish Examiner reported last month that SSE which trades as SSE Airtricity in Ireland has no plans to exit the consumer-retail market here. It has around 740,000 in the Republic. Like a number of suppliers, we are facing challenges due to competition increasing, the introduction of the energy price cap and higher operating costs, chief operating officer and co-head of retail, at SSE Energy Services Tony Keeling, said. He added that in order to run a sustainable business the company needed to become more efficient. The shares fell almost 3% in London. Britains energy regulator Ofgem was told by parliament last year to cap energy prices after lawmakers said customers were being overcharged for electricity and gas. Prime Minister Theresa May had called the tariffs a rip-off. However, Ofgem gave the green light to suppliers to increase bills by more than 10% from April 1 after a rise in wholesale energy prices. SSE is not the only one of Britains big six energy suppliers which also include Centricas British Gas, Iberdrolas Scottish Power, Innogys npower, and EDF Energy to announce job cuts. Unite, which has more than 4,000 members in SSEs 20,000 strong workforce, said it had been working with the company to avoid job cuts over the last six months but the take up of new meters had not improved. Reuters. Additional reporting Irish Examiner There is something inherent in Irelands institutional and political structure that renders it nigh on impossible to devise and deliver policy, particularly in the sphere of capital investment. The delivery of the childrens hospital has turned into a total and very damaging fiasco. This is not least due to the fact that its location makes very little sense, but the manner in which it was originally costed has turned it into a PR nightmare at the very least for Government. In the area of housing, it is quite incredible that we cannot provide adequate housing that is affordable for what is a relatively small population. The same can be said for health. The two-tier health system that results in massive waiting lists for those unfortunate enough not to have adequate private health insurance is a clear manifestation of failure, as is the fact that the South-East does not have adequate cardiac care, and it has a hospital where bodies are left to decay on trolleys. Ireland is quite simply failing to deliver a health service befitting a so-called wealthy developed economy. For those of us unfortunate enough to have to travel on the M7 on a frequent basis, the valuable hours in peoples lives that are lost sitting in traffic and the 16,000-plus traffic fines that have been issued to people who travel over 60km/h is a contemptible way to treat the citizens of the country. It is noteworthy that the roadworks generally ceases at night and at weekends. Surely it would have been possible to deliver the much-needed upgrade in half the time if it operated on a 24-7 basis? As is the case with most infrastructure delivery in this country, there appears to be a strong appetite to make people suffer for as long as possible. The latest debacle concerns the broadband offering. For reasons that have not been adequately explained, we have ended up in a situation where we are left with one bidder for the contract, and surprise surprise, that bidder has been given the contract. The plan agreed by Government this week envisages the provision of a broadband service to the approximately 25% of the population that does not have access to high-speed broadband from a commercial operator. By definition, most of those are in remote areas and hence the laying of the fibre cable will be expensive. The cost estimate envisages a 3bn bill for the taxpayer. Having high-speed broadband in rural areas is a necessary but not sufficient condition for stronger and more balanced regional economic growth and development. It would allow people engage in remote working; reduce commuting significantly, helping boost an inadequate strategy to address climate change; would promote economic and social vibrancy in rural areas; and would of course enhance the quality of life. What is not to like about all of this? Well, the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform has strong concerns on costs and affordability. The concerns include the effects on parts of the National Development Plan; the unprecedented risk for the exchequer; and compatibility with the spatial objectives of Project Ireland 2040. Instead, the department recommends incremental improvements in the broadband offering to tap cheaper emerging technologies over time. I am personally a bit conflicted here. At the time of the development of Luas and Dart, there were those who argued that those investments would represent a waste of taxpayers money. They have turned out to be incredibly successful. Indeed, it is a pity that we were not more ambitious at the time. The economic payback from providing broadband to remote rural areas would be a lot less compelling but the social benefits would be enormous. It does strike me as very strange that at the end of the process, the private operator would own the network. We are still paying the price for handing over the telecoms infrastructure to private interests with a short-term profit motive back in 1999. Arguably, this is the root cause of the dismal broadband offering we have today. That mistake should not be repeated. Ahead of elections, the rushed agreement on the broadband plan does not look sensible. Ensuring value for taxpayers money should now become the priority. Accounting giant KPMG has been fined and reprimanded by UK regulators over a defective audit of Britains Co-op Bank and its audits of lenders will face additional checks for three years. Britains Financial Reporting Council said KPMG had been fined 5m reduced for a settlement to 4m (4.6m). KPMG audit partner Andrew Walker was also fined 125,000, discounted for settlement to 100,000, and reprimanded. The penalties relate to a 2009 audit of the Co-op Bank shortly after its ill-fated merger with the Britannia Building Society. The penalties come at a difficult time for the UKs big four accountancy firms, which also include PwC, Deloitte and EY, with regulators calling on their audit functions to be ringfenced from consultancy after a string of auditing failures on major firms including BHS and Carillion. All KPMGs audit engagements with credit institutions for audits ending in 2019, 2020 and 2021 will be subject to an additional review by a separate KPMG audit quality team who will provide reports to the FRC, the regulator said. KPMG will also pay 500,000 towards the FRCs costs. The council said KPMG and Mr Walker both admitted their conduct fell significantly short of standards expected in assessing the fair value of Britannias loan book. A spokesperson for KPMG said: We regret that some of our audit work around specific elements of the banks fair value adjustments did not meet the appropriate standards. The work in question was conducted almost a decade ago and we have significantly enhanced our procedures and training around the areas in question since then. After further years of tough trading Co-op Bank was rescued by US hedge funds in 2017. The lender separately reported first-quarter results yesterday, with a pre-tax loss of 28.6m for the first three months of 2019. The baby is listed in serious condition at Lurie Children's Hospital. The boy will be placed in a foster home while custody is worked out. For now, the baby has been named Patrick Casey Doe: Patrick for a paramedic who helped treat the baby and Casey for a police officer who cleared traffic for the ambulance to Norwegian American Hospital. The private operator behind the controversial National Broadband Plan (NBP) will only put up 974m, less than a third of the 3bn cost to the taxpayer. Despite calls from the Opposition to reveal the McCourt contribution, ministers refused to confirm what the Granahan McCourt consortium are expected to invest in the scheme. However, documents released by the Government revealed the estimated contribution from the firm, which was the source of stinging criticism from the top spending official in the country. Finance Minister Paschal Donohoe told the Irish Examiner he was aware of the estimated contribution but would not confirm what the actual number will be. I am aware of what are estimates are for the different figures that the preferred bidder would be making available. I am not in a position to confirm that figure now, he said. The revelation comes as devastating criticisms of the NBP from the countrys top spending officials in Mr Donohoes department were revealed. We strongly recommend against approval of the appointment of the preferred bidder to the current NBP procurement process on the grounds of: cost and affordability, impact on the National Development Plan and on projects forgone as a result, value for money and specifically uncertain benefits, unprecedented risk for the Exchequer and compatibility with Project Ireland 2040, a memorandum from Robert Watt, secretary general of the Department of Public Expenditure to Mr Donohoe said. Officials warned that the reallocation of funds for broadband would have serious implications for other planned investments, which would require the cancellation or delay of a wide range of projects. To fund broadband, the officials warned that a reduction of 300m in the Department of Housing would be required, meaning the cancelling the delivery of 1,500 social houses. It will also mean a 200m reduction in Transport which equates to the entire budget last year for repairing regional roads. In health, it will mean the cancellation of eight primary-care centres, and in education, it will mean a hit of 130m and the axing of 26 primary schools. In terms of value for money, Mr Watt and his officials said they had major concerns in relation to the cost benefit analysis, saying the justication for the cost has not been demonstrated satisfactorily. This involves excessive costs and risks for the Irish taxpayer with questionable benefits, many of which are private benefits but to be funded at public cost, the officials warned. Mr Donohoe accepted the 3bn National Broadband Plan is an unprecidented risk, but insisted it is a risk worth taking. Defending his decision to eschew stark warnings from his most senior officials about the plan to the State, Mr Donohoe said on balance seeking 100% broadband coverage across the country deserved to be approved. As minister I have to receive advice, but I ultimately have to make a decision in relation to what to do. He said he believes there are safeguards within the contract for the project that are capable of securing our needs as this project rolls out. Mr Donohoe said he would not be pulling funding from other areas in order to fund the project, which may cost up to 2.7bn. It was also not his plan to change existing commitments to other priorities. This is why it is all the more important to be clear that it is my intention to deliver new capital funding to ensure we can deliver this plan in addition to our existing commitments. Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has said he absolutely has confidence in a senior civil servant who advised against proceeding with the National Broadband Plan. Mr Varadkar said he has tremendous respect for Mr Watt. He said Mr Watt and his team gave very strong advice against the plan, but that the Government has to make a decision on the balance of advice. He said this advice also included an independent cost-benefit analysis which showed that in all scenarios, the benefits outweighed the costs. Mr Varadkar said maybe the plan was a leap of faith, but that it was a leap of faith in believing in the future of rural Ireland. While the Taoiseach confirmed confidence in Mr Watt, he said it doesnt mean well always agree and we dont always agree. He added would not like to be in a government where everyone always agrees and where officials did not raise concerns or alarms, describing such a scenario as groupthink. Communications Minister Richard Bruton has refused to deny or confirm whether the bidders for the costly rural broadband plan will only put up between 300m and 400m. Criticism continues over the State's 3bn bill for the seven-year project and there are questions about how much the McCourt-led group will invest initially in the plan to connect 540,000 premises. While Mr Bruton confirmed in the Dail that the overall cost to build the network will be 5bn, including 3bn from the state, he declined to be drawn on the investors' funds. Fianna Fail's Timmy Dooley said that, from the figures available, it seems the McCourt-led consortium will only put a limited amount behind the plan despite the huge bill for taxpayers. The Clare TD said: The equity being put in by Granahan McCourt is probably somewhere in the 300m and 400m ballpark. Mr Bruton said he would not confirm anything ahead of a contract being signed, which is expected to be in the autumn. But the Opposition TD explained how, on top of the State's 3bn payment for the deal, the private company looks likely only to invest the small amount. He said: Given that the Minister is neither denying nor confirming it, I take it that 300m to 400m is in the ballpark of the equity that Granahan McCourt will contribute to this. My assumption is that thereafter, the rest will be by way of debt or syndicated debt. "We are also conscious that the project will generate somewhere in the region of 1.5bn to 2bn over the lifecycle of the contract. Several TDs in the Dail accused the Government of announcing the deal as an election ploy, ahead of voters going to the polls later this month. Social Democrats TD, Roisin Shortall, also questioned why there are so many sub-contractors for the deal while Green leader, Eamon Ryan, called for a review of the plan and improvements to it. Earlier, Tanaiste, Simon Coveney, denied that the decision to approve the National Broadband Plan is linked to the upcoming local and European elections. Mr Coveney said that while the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform has tested the controversial decision very robustly, the Department of Communications, Climate Action and the Environment has defended that decision very robustly.The job of Government, he said, is to make decisions and to explain them. Earlier: Bruton refuses to state cost for rural dwellers of 5bn broadband rollout By Elaine Loughlin The Communications Minister has refused to say how much of the 5bn broadband rollout cost will be footed by rural homeowners and businesses. Richard Burton said around 50% of the total cost of the project over 25 years will be carried by the private investor led by David McCourt as well as subscribers who pay to hook up to that service. However, he would not provide a breakdown as to how much customers would pay compared to the company rolling out the service. The State will put 3bn into the delivery of the National Broadband Plan (NBP). Tanaiste Simon Coveney said the decision to press ahead with the NBP would future-proof the country. "It's about making sure that we don't knowingly allow a deep divide to develop between rural parts of Ireland and urban parts of Ireland. We know the appetite in urban parts, in urban centres for fixed-line high-speed broadband and we know that the market simply won't deliver that type of infrastructure to about 23% of the population, or 540,000 premises. He said that there is "no perfect time to commit to spending significant amounts of money like this" but said the Brexit challenge "reinforces" the need for broadband to ensure we remain competitive and have sustainable economic growth. "I think it would have been the wrong decision to wait for full certainty around Brexit which may take years before it's fully clear in terms of what the future relationship will look like," Mr Coveney told a Fine Gael event for the party's Dublin European Election candidates, Frances Fitzgerald and Mark Durkan. Attending the same event, Mr Bruton confirmed that 5bn plus VAT is now the estimated cost. "It is the estimate being used of the total cost of rollout, of design, build and operate over 25 years. The State, the total cost, maximum worst case cost is 2.97bn, of that excluding VAT that brings you back to 2.6bn - so excluding VAT - and of that 545m of that is a contingency fund, that will only be drawn on in very explicit specific circumstances where they can show an audited basis that certain contingencies have arisen. He also admitted that a separate deal with Eir which syphoned off 300,000 properties "undoubtedly has impacted on the cost" of the McCourt contract. "By and large you have to pass the same number of premises even though you don't have to connect as many," said Mr Bruton. Documentation released by the Government on Wednesday showed that Department of Public Expenditure Secretary-General Robert Watt strongly recommended against the Government appointing the preferred bidder on grounds of affordability, risk and value for money. "The State is taking an unprecedented risk with this project," Mr Watt warned. However, Mr Coveney said the significant difference of opinion would not create difficulties between Mr Watt and Minister Paschal Donohoe. "Robert Watt has a job too, to really test expenditure in terms of how decisions are made and how money is allocated. But ultimately the Government has to collectively make a decision and in my view in time it will be shown to be the right decision," the Tanaiste said. Local Garda bosses say threats from dissidents to murder people who talk to the police must be met head-on and warned that the paramilitaries must not be allowed take control. Garda superintendents said dissidents are seeking to exploit not only the ongoing political vacuum but a policing vacuum created by a vast reduction of gardai on the southern side of the border and the closure of police stations on the northern side. Supt Noel Cunningham, president of the Association of Garda Superintendents, said Garda strategies that had been deployed to tackle gangs carrying out rural crimes should be used to combat the rise in border crime and the spate of ATM robberies. Against the backdrop of violent feuds in Drogheda, Co Louth, and Corduff and Finglas in west Dublin, Supt Cunningham told the AGS annual conference in Kildare that action must be against gangs vying for territory in our ever-increasing drugs war. Supt Cunningham said the threat from dissidents remains and that the political vacuum in Stormont is not helping the situation. He said that arising from the so-called peace dividend, there has been a vast reduction in Garda numbers and the closure of police stations on the northern side of the border. This had created a policing vacuum that paramilitaries and criminals are eager to exploit. Supt Cunningham said dissidents have historically taken advantage of young people who feel disenfranchised. Referring to death threats on signs and graffiti the New IRA had put up in Creggan to stop people from assisting the PSNI in relation to the murder of Lyra McKee, he said: I think it was seen in Derry where threats were written up when people went forward and give information that they would be dealt with. So, its very, very important that we treat these threats head-on and that these people do not take control. Addressing minister of state at the Department of Justice David Stanton, Supt Cunningham said: The crime corridors identified by us at last years conference remain open as can be seen by the increase in border crime and the spate of ATM robberies on both sides of the border. He said, at the same time, that gardai have had some success in combating crime in rural areas. We have seen a significant decrease in rural crime due to targeted and resourced operations nationally to combat the movement of known criminals. There are clear lessons to be learned. Supt Cunningham said his members face constant challenges in trying to deal with drug crime. This is a national issue permeated into towns and villages across the country where opposing groups are vying for territory and market share in our ever-increasing drugs war. He took to task groups, including official bodies such as health agencies and researchers, for language used around drugs. The use by groups, including official sources, of the term recreational drugs is only helping to normalise what is illegal, dangerous, and supporting drug abuse in Ireland. More than 42 people will be expected to share a kitchen if plans to build a new co-living apartment building in Dublin is approved. The development of 208 shared living homes in Dun Laoghaire was criticized by local representatives at a meeting last night. Green Party councillors have called for a rewriting of residential guidelines following the developer's proposals. This is what loose-touch regulation produces: 42 bedrooms sharing a kitchen in Dun Laoghaire. Government encouraging Dickensian solutions to the housing crisis. I hope Bord Pleanala refuses #EP2019 https://t.co/uPXYP7delI pic.twitter.com/AiEJHjpGoi Ciaran Cuffe (@CiaranCuffe) May 7, 2019 "If permission is granted for this development it will result in a slowing down of provision of adequately sized homes, as super-profits will be made from these shoebox units," said Green Party councillor Ciaran Cuffe. "We are in a housing crisis. We need to build homes of a decent standard." Bartra Capital Property intends to develop a five storey, co-living building on Eblana Avenue. Each en-suite bedroom will include a pull-down bed and kitchenette. The co-living scheme will provide occupants with their own bathroom, but they will have to share a communal kitchen and living area. One room is expected to rent for 1,300 per month. A decision is expected to be made in July. The largest public sector trade union in the country is to seek a return to the working hours for civil servants that were in place before the financial crisis. Forsa want a mid-term review of the Public Service Stability Agreement to review the extra working hours brought in under the 2013 Haddington Road agreement. Forsa senior general secretary designate Kevin Callinan told the unions civil service conference in Kilkenny that it disputed the Governments estimate that reversing the addition of 2.25 hours to the working week of lower and middle-earning civil servants under Haddington Road would cost some 600m. The figure is at least 50% higher than the Government estimate when the additional time was introduced in 2013, Mr Callinan said. And we have made the wider point that advances in new technologies and work organisation could defray much of the cost of reduced working time in the public service and elsewhere. He noted that 12 branches had submitted motions on the issue of increased working time more than on any other issue under consideration. A few years ago, when we were in the eye of the economic storm, I opposed similar conference motions, he said. But Id struggle to construct a convincing argument against them now, in light of our current economic performance and rapidly-developing technological possibilities. The chair of Forsas civil service division, Niall McGuirk, said civil servants now collectively worked 75,000 more hours each week than in 2013. The extra hours imposed on our members under the Haddington Road agreement still rankle with many, said Mr McGuirk. While the Public Service Stability Agreement is unwinding the emergency legislation that introduced pay cuts in 2009 and 2010, the question of hours still needs to be resolved. Our average hourly rate of pay has decreased, with civil servants earning just 93% of what they earned 10 years ago, Mr Callinan said. Meanwhile, union delegates have heard calls for a Citizens Assembly to examine local government reform. Sean Reid, chair of Forsas Local Government and Local Services division, said the Citizens Assemblys meticulous work has brought about seismic constitutional change. In that same vein, we should be ambitious in our aim to reclaim local democracy, and to consider the Citizens Assembly as an appropriate forum to make progress on local democratic reform, he said. Detectives from the PSNI investigating the murder of Lyra Mckee last month have arrested four people. The 29-year-old journalist was shot while watching disturbances in Derry last month. Dissident republican group the New IRA said its members carried out the killing. Four males aged 15, 18, 38 and 51 were arrested under Terrorism legislation in Derry city this morning in connection with the violence. They have been taken to the Serious Crime Suite in Musgrave Station, Belfast where they are currently being questioned by detectives. Ms McKee was killed on April 18 following violent disorder in Creggan. "As part of this mornings operation detectives carried out searches at four houses in the city and arrested four people in connection with the violence which was orchestrated on the streets of Creggan on the evening of Lyra McKees murder," said Detective Superintendent Jason Murphy, the senior detective leading the investigation "They are currently in custody where they are being questioned." Detectives from the PSNIs Major Investigation Team investigating the murder of Lyra Mckee following violent disorder in Creggan in Derry/Londonderry on 18th April have arrested four people under Terrorism legislation. For more info see link below -https://t.co/8Sw3xmYwRu Police Derry City and Strabane (@PSNIDCSDistrict) May 9, 2019 Detective Superintendent Murphy called once more for witnesses to come forward and share footage if available. "I want to thank the public for the widespread support we have received to date, including more than 140 people who have provided images, footage and other details via our dedicated Major Incident Public Portal. "I still want to hear from anyone who can tell us anything they know. I would urge anyone who has any information to contact my team of detectives on 101. "Alternatively, if you would prefer to provide information without giving your details, you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers and speak to them anonymously on 0800 555 111." The Government have been attacked for "playing fast and loose" with taxpayers' money by allowing broadband and other projects go billions over budget. Fianna Fail leader Micheal Martin said the National Development Plan is now "in shreds" and Finance Minister Paschal Donohoe can no longer say he will find the extra money for spiralling costs of rural broadband, the national children's hospital and the proposed metro in Dublin. He hit out at the Government for now spending almost 10bn on these three projects that are all significantly over budget. "What the ministers and the Government are announcing is not grounded in reality," Mr Martin said of the Cabinet decision to press ahead with the consortium led by David McCourt to deliver the National Broadband Plan (NBP) which will now cost 5bn. "There is a real world that the Department officials are grappling with in terms of how much is being spent each year and then there is this other planet where Ministers are announcing billions for this and billions for that. "I don't think we are getting a real story on the National Development Plan, they are saying we will find the extra money. Either it suggests that they weren't telling the truth in terms of the National Development Plan and all the projections that are in there or an awful lot of the projects that are in there will never see the light of day over the next two decades," said Mr Martin. There is clearly an electoral context to this, this is promising the sun, moon and stars again to rural Ireland, two weeks out from a local election, but rural Ireland is now quite cynical at this stage in terms of the broadband story because they have been promised this for seven years and every single target has been missed and every promise has been broken. He said his party are in favour of setting up an agency within the ESB to deliver broadband. Referring to an increasing number of projects which are now billions over initial estimates, Mr Martin said the credibility of the National Development Plan, has been "torn to shreds". "You have the children's hospital ballooning to 2bn, you have a broadband plan ballooning to 3bn and the Department saying we are going to have to find 1bn in the next three or four years to look after about 1,500 social houses, hundreds of primary schools, a range of other services in health, primary care centres." He also pointed to the Taoiseach who said the new Metro will be 5bn, which he said was another 1.5bn to 2bn extra. "What kind of planet are they living on? You are up to nearly 10bn on three projects, the National Development Plan has absolutely no credibility as we speak here today, no credibility," he said. Mr Martin said the words "unprecedented risk" used by Department of Public Expenditure Secretary-General Robert Watt in his warnings on the broadband project was "heavy stuff" and said he was "taken aback by the lack of robust response to it" from the Government. However, he said "now is not the time" for a General Election given the Brexit volatility. The Garda Representative Association (GRA) has called for more manpower to police festivals in West Cork after drugs It follows confirmation yesterday that 60 drug detections were made, mostly for cocaine, and 29 people were arrested during the Kinsale 7s policing operation in Kinsale, Co Cork, over the May bank holiday weekend. Three gardai were also assaulted in the line of duty. One of the gardai may be out of work for some time as a result of the injuries he sustained. GRA West Cork Garda Division spokesman, Jason Collins, praised the work of members on the ground, who he said went above and beyond the call of duty. We have welfare concerns for our members. We have a number of festivals coming up in West Cork and we will be seeking to have more manpower brought in for them, both for the safety of our members and that of the public, he said. Gardai mounted a large policing operation as an estimated 20,000 people came through the town over the weekend. It included the deployment of additional plainclothes members from the Divisional Drugs Unit as well as members from the Roads Policing Unit. It resulted in the arrest of 29 people for alleged public order offences, for suspected drink and drunk driving, and for possession of drugs. Bandon-based Superintendent Brendan Fogarty, said the vast majority of those who visited the town were respectful and complied with gardai and stewards. However, he said there were 60 detections for possession of suspected drugs, mostly cocaine. This is an alarming amount of detections for drugs. Drugs have such a negative impact on so many lives and have no place in our communities, he said. Six people also took the risk of getting behind the wheel with drugs or alcohol in their system. People who do this are putting themselves, our family, and our friends at risk by driving whilst intoxicated. The details emerged yesterday a day after gardai in Kerry confirmed that of the 16 people who were arrested in the Killarney District over the same bank holiday weekend on suspicion of dangerous driving or driving under the influence, 12 of them were motorists who were attending the Rally of the Lakes event. "I reject 100 percent the attack on me, my family and the rest of this Police Department," he told reporters last May after denying in testimony at an unrelated hearing that he ever beat a single suspect over his lengthy career. "This is bull----. People are making money on this." Hospital wards are being used to house children at risk who are taken into care when Tusla is unable to find alternative safe lodgings in the community, the annual delegate conference of the Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation will hear today. Nurses who are highlighting the practice will call on conference to inform the HSE of this frequent occurrence and the negative impact it has on a child requiring a place of safety. Jarlath Keady, who is proposing the motion, will urge conference to recognise the challenges it presents when children who are not ill, and who often display extreme challenging behaviour, are placed in a childrens ward in an acute hospital setting. Mr Keady, of the INMO Ballinasloe branch, described the practice as commonplace. There have been three occurrences in six months in our unit and we are a rural unit. The child could be in there 48 hours plus before any accommodation was found. I dont believe thats a good enough situation for any nurse in any unit to be in, nor for any other child whos on the ward, Mr Keady said. They are on that ward and they have no medical ailments, they are only there for their safety. Mr Keady said it was very unsettling to see a child being specialled [designated as requiring one-to-one care] be it by a nurse, a health care assistant and security guard and/or the gardai, if circumstances require them to be there. The situation was not confined to the weekends, when placing children in care can be more problematic. Recently, one child was placed on the ward from Wednesday to Friday. Its not ideal for the child that needs to be housed, its not ideal for children on the ward being treated for illness, and its not ideal for the nursing staff. He said the HSE should be made fully aware of it because Tusla is answerable to the HSE. Basically I want conference to go back to the HSE and for Tusla to get its house in order so that there is a place available to house a child 24/7 or 365 days of the year, be it short term foster care or a safe house, but not an acute hospital setting, Mr Keady said. While nobody is going to turn a child away, hospitals were not appropriate accommodation. Up to 350 delegates are attending the centenary annual conference in Trim, Co Meath, which got underway yesterday, and where the theme is Reflecting on the Past, Navigating the Present, Modelling for the Future. Simon Harris, the health minister, is due to attend tomorrow. A separate motion today will urge the HSE, as the biggest employer in the country, to improve on its approach to waste management against a backdrop of concern about the growing environmental impact of pollutants, particularly plastics, on human health. Members of the INMO Letterkenny branch will call on the HSE to apply a consistent waste segregation, recycle and disposal programme nationwide, to include robust recycle facilities in every HSE work area. They say the HSE needs a system to manage large volumes of currently unrecylable packaging that comes with medical and allied products, to ensure they do not enter general landfill sites. An island off Cork has launched a bid to become one of the worlds few officially-recognised dark sky sites - areas dedicated to stargazing. The Cape Clear gaeltacht, eight miles off the coast, is set to host its first Dark Skies event from May 24 to 26, supported by CIT and Blackrock Castle Observatory, which will coincide with a flyover of the International Space Station. The weekend-long event will feature talks and workshops with experienced guides and astronomers sharing their knowledge and appreciation of the night sky. The bid has been inspired by Shane ONeill, a teacher in the islands national school, who spotted the potential overhead. Already famous for ornithology and whales, dolphins and basking sharks, the pristine night sky is another fantastic natural resource the Island has to offer, he said. The island hopes to be recognised by the International Dark Sky Association. Ireland has two gold tier international dark sky parks - one in Mayo and the other in Kerry - which includes areas such as Kells, Caherciveen, Valentia Island, Portmagee, The Glen, Ballinskelligs, Waterville, Dromid and Caherdaniel. Other gold tier dark sky parks include the Grand Canyon and Joshua Tree National Park in the US. Cape Clears event is being supported by Cork County Council, Udaras na Gaeltachta, University College Cork and Failte Ireland. News of its dark sky bid comes ahead of a major public meeting in Cork on Monday on light pollution, organised by Dark Sky Ireland. There is no national policy or legislation here to deal with light pollution. Following recent announcements of a nationwide high-efficiency-lighting retrofit of street lights, experts say its crucial that Ireland adopts an evidence-based lighting policy that reflects best practice in terms of protecting our health, economy, environment, and our dark sky heritage. The public meeting in County Hall will be addressed by light pollution expert Professor Brian Espey from Trinity College Dublin and Georgia McMillan, a leading advocate with the Friends of Mayo Dark Skies. Other speakers will include broadcaster, Duncan Stewart, of EcoEye, Ken Bond from Cork Nature Network, and Dr Niall Smith, Head of CITs Blackrock Castle Observatory. The talk is free but attendees must register first. The sentencing of a teenager for attempted murder has been delayed after the Central Criminal Court heard that an issue had arisen with preparing a court-ordered psychiatric report which would address future risk. The judge has said that he would sentence without the report if he had to. Mr Justice Michael White had ordered that a consultant psychiatrist and a clinical psychologist prepare reports on the 16-year-old boy, who tried to murder a woman he had met online. The young woman previously told the Central Criminal Court that she felt that the then 15-year-old was frustrated with himself for not having killed her. She gave evidence of taking what she thought was her last breath, as the teenager tried to choke the life out of her before slashing her neck with a knife and leaving her for dead. The boy, who cannot be named because of his age, was back before the court today as part of the sentencing process, having pleaded guilty to attempting to murder Stephanie Ng on December 23, 2017, at Sea Front, Queens Road, Dun Laoghaire. He had met his 25-year-old victim on the Whisper social media app, where he had pretended to be 19. The boy tried to kill her during their first face-to-face meeting, after suggesting they take a selfie by the waters edge in Dun Laoghaire. There, he grabbed her from behind and choked her to unconsciousness before slashing her neck. Gardai later found a book of drawings in his bedroom, containing a sketch of someone being cut up with a knife. The words, serial killer, had been written on another page. The court had earlier directed Professor Kennedy of the Central Mental Hospital to assign a consultant psychiatrist and clinical psychologist to prepare reports on the accused. However, prosecution counsel Mr Paul Burns SC told the court on a later date that, due to an issue that had arisen, Prof. Kennedy was not in a position to furnish a report or nominate someone else to do so. Patrick Gageby SC, defending, said on that occasion that the defence was anxious that the court would have the benefit of the report. Prof. Kennedy was asked to attend to see if he could recommend any other independent consultant forensic psychiatrist and did so last week. He said that the same issue would probably arise if the court ordered him to nominate another consultant to provide a report. Mr Justice White said that the courts concern was to assess the future risk the boy would be to society if and when released from prison. He asked the prosecution to research if someone could come from the UK to deal with this and said the court would cross the issue that had arisen at a later stage. All parties returned to court today, with Mr Burns saying the prosecution had been unable to get someone in Britain or Northern Ireland to prepare the report. He asked for two weeks to try one last avenue. Mr Justice White adjourned the case until May 24. Im going to proceed without the report if we cant get it, he said. The executive director of the abuse support group One in Four has welcomed the recommendations contained in the Gillen Review which calls for the banning of the public from rape trials in Northern Ireland. Maeve Lewis told Newstalk Breakfast that Sir John Gillens review also addressed the serious issue of the use of social media particularly by jurors. She said there needs to be an education policy for jurors to teach them about the myths around rape and consent so that they will not be biased by details such as how a woman was dressed. The Gillen Review, which commenced in May last year, is an independent review of how courts are set up to deliver justice in serious sexual offence cases. A former Lord Justice of Appeal, the Right Honourable Sir John Gillen, led the review, supported by an advisory panel. It was ordered in the wake of concerns surrounding the handling of the nine-week Belfast rape trial last year, in which professional rugby players Paddy Jackson and Stuart Olding were acquitted of rape. To think that any Joe Soap could walk into a court and listen to someone being put through that experience is dreadful, said Ms Lewis. A rape trial was an incredibly humiliating experience and it was not easy for a complainant to be cross-examined and grilled about every aspect of their life. She said she had heard of people from around the country travelling to Belfast to attend the Jackson/Olding trial. She described such actions as ghoulish and wondered about their need to listen to prurient details. The issue of how to control the use of social media by the public and jurors was a great concern, she added and she was glad that the Gillen Review had highlighted the issue. Government plans to cut the amount being paid out for personal injury claims have been rejected. Senior judges have told the Justice Minister that the proposals would not stand up in court. Former Minister for Communications Denis Naughten has warned that if the proposed National Broadband Plan falters between now and the signing of the contract he does not believe that there will ever be high-speed broadband in rural Ireland. If this falters I don't honestly believe that we will ever get high-speed broadband into rural Ireland. I believe for generations to come we'll be talking about haphazard services - it will be a band-aid situation, for a few years it will be good and then it will drop off, it will become a big political issue again. Speaking on Newstalks Pat Kenny show he acknowledged that the announcement of details for the National Broadband Plan this week was unfortunate timing. The timing is very unfortunate. This was ready to go last October, this is not about Netflix for people in rural Ireland that perception is being put out there. Mr Naughten also said that when Eir (then Telecom Eireann) was privatised the key infrastructure such as telegraph poles and ducting, should not have been sold. He dismissed criticism from Labour party leader Brendan Howlin saying that Mr Howlin, along with Robert Watt, the senior civil servant who voiced concern about the plan, had signed off on the sale of 300 state owned communications masts owned by Coillte, during term of last Government. Mr Naughten defended the proposed plan saying that it is going to transform rural Ireland in terms of the health service. If because of broadband going into a rural home we can put in monitors and technology for an older person - at some stage over the next 35 years, if we can keep an older person in their home for an extra six weeks rather than going into a nursing home, we've paid for that service. The opportunities in relation to health are phenomenal, there is a whole range of companies globally looking to provide services to older people who will use Ireland as their base because it will be a test bed because we will be the only country in the world with a fibre connection right across the country, right across rural communities and it will make rural Ireland a very attractive place for foreign direct investment to come in particularly in the health sector. It will put us at the cutting edge of that. He said it was disingenuous for Fianna Fail to take its current position in relation to broadband. During Fianna Fail's reign in power in the 90s and the 2000s in particular, I consistently argued that the Government of the day should bring all of the publicly owned broadband networks into one state holding company, that was the ESB network, the Bord Gais network, the Irish Rail network, the Coillte masts, and the ESB masts - every single Fianna Fail Minister ignored that call by me over that period of time. Instead they brought forward the national broadband scheme which handed broadband in rural Ireland to a private company called Three and that network, which was a wireless mobile network, was obsolete the day the Government launched it. Gardai investigating reports of shots fired outside a nightclub in Dublin have arrested two men. Shots were discharged from a firearm close to the entrance of a nightclub at the Red Cow complex, Naas Road on Sunday, April 28. Two men aged 26 and 24 were arrested on May 7 and detained for questioning under Section 50 of the Criminal Justice Act, 2007 at Clondalkin Garda Station. They are both expected to appear before a sitting of Blanchardstown District Court this morning charged in connection with the case. The officers sought the special prosecutor after Foxx posed for a photo with Brown at an April 6 news conference at Rainbow/PUSH headquarters that was called to voice support for the states attorney after fiery criticism over her offices sudden dismissal of charges against Empire actor Jussie Smollett. It features daily menus and inherited family recipe books, with clippings of restaurant reviews and letters of advice to young chefs served on the side, all garnished with photographs and files reflecting her wide range of personal interests. The vast Myrtle Allen archive, which spans a century, has now been acquired by University College Cork (UCC) which it hopes will inspire and guide study on her remarkable influence on Irish food culture. Ms Allen, the doyenne of Irish food and the woman who founded the Ballymaloe food empire, died last June, aged 94. A pioneer in Irish food, her approach changed the course of Irish food culture and influenced a generation. She kept meticulous records which were stored in boxes and suitcases at Ballymaloe House. Her daughter, Fern Allen, said the family is delighted that UCC has agreed to house the collection in the Boole library. It is wonderful to know that they will be preserved and stored safely and that they will be available in time for study and research, she said. UCC president Professor Patrick OShea said they are honoured to become the guardians of the collection. Spanning over 100 years, the Myrtle Allen Archive is an insight into a woman whose ethos and approach to cooking and Irish produce would come to frame, structure and direct Irish food culture. Her legacy extends far beyond our borders and across generations. It is fitting that these archives will reside in UCC, in a region that has a deep heritage in the craft and art of food, he said. The extensive archive includes Ms Allens handwritten daily menus, inherited handwritten family manuscript recipe books, correspondence with producers and chefs, restaurant and hotel reviews, and scrapbooks of traditional recipes sent to her by readers of the Irish Farmers Journal, for whom she wrote a food column from 1962 until the early 1970s. It includes letters of advice she wrote to new chefs, drafts and proofs of her 1977 book, The Ballymaloe Cookbook, and documents and photos reflecting her interest in history, genealogy and travel. It provides a remarkable insight into her relationship with food and into her ethos and approach to cooking and Irish produce. UCC food and culinary historian, Regina Sexton, who has, since 2013, been researching Ms Allens work, said the archive will enrich her work further. Myrtle Allen What made Myrtle different was that she wasnt swayed by outside influences but rather she aimed to validate the internal she looked inward and strove to elevate what was good, home-produced food to such a high status that we could be confident in believing that Irish food was some of the best the world could produce, Ms Sexton said. Largely a self-taught chef, Ms Allen and her husband Ivan, a farmer and horticulturalist, bought Ballymaloe House in East Cork in 1948. She opened a restaurant in the family home in 1964 one of the first country houses in Ireland or Britain to do so building its reputation by using top quality, locally sourced produce supplied by a network of trusted suppliers. She won a Michelin star in 1975 the first Irish women to receive the accolade and she remains one of just two women to hold the award in the Republic of Ireland. UCC will also host the first annual Myrtle Allen Memorial Lecture tonight, with speakers including respected food writer, Claudia Roden, the Michelin star chef, Ross Lewis and John McKenna, of McKennas Guides. In 2000, Ms Allen was awarded an honorary doctorate by UCC and earlier this year, the university launched the Food Institute to help link its food-related activity to the community. We are in deep, deep trouble, as a planet, as a species. Climate change is garnering all the headlines but it is not the only issue. Biodiversity, on a global level, has broached critical levels; mass extinctions of habitat and wildlife is an ongoing phenomenon. Biochemical flows phosphorous and nitrogen used in industrial agriculture to artificially enrich soil are at critical levels, causing eutrophication, whereby nutrient-dense chemical runoff from the land into the water system causes algal blooms to develop, food chains to alter and oxygen to deplete, eventually causing dead zones. This same chemical cocktail is wreaking equal havoc on our precious soil, exhausting, then fatally overloading that frail membrane covering the earths landmasses. A third of earths land is now severely degraded, and the UN predicts we have about 60 remaining harvests before soil becomes too barren to feed the planet. Ireland is not immune. More than 100 of our plants and animals are already extinct; about a third of all monitored species in Ireland are threatened with extinction or on the cusp of being so. Our agricultural land is essentially a chemical cocktail and, say the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA): Eutrophication of rivers and lakes due to phosphorous losses from agriculture continues to be the most critical impact of Irish agriculture on water quality A major EU report last year found Ireland to be to be the second worst member state at tackling climate change only coal-mining Poland sparing us the ignominy of being last yet Fine Gaels new climate change strategy concentrates on electric cars and renewable energy. Yes, fossil fuel usage is heavily implicated in this catastrophic environmental destruction but industrial agriculture is equally complicit. Nobody in their right mind wants to lose those jobs or that huge input to economic wellbeing but we face hard choices ahead and as economist Kenneth E Boulding, once stated: Anyone who believes in indefinite growth in anything physical, on a physically finite planet, is either mad or an economist. Yet, hope remains, in a quote that still resonates from the 2016 International Slow Food assembly: They may be giants but we are millions. In other words, we must take matters into our own hands and institute change from the bottom up. Here we meet a small selection of inspirational people in Ireland, choosing to do just that. SUSTAINABILITY Dr Colin Sage recently retired from UCCs Geography Dept; food geographer and world-renowned expert on food and sustainability; chair of Cork Food Policy Council; author, Environment and Food. The word sustainability is tarnished, devalued by overuse and misappropriated by vested interests wanting to sustain the existing model, but it is important to retrieve it because it does enable us to refocus on environment. Sustainability presumes there is some relationship between society, economy and the environment and requires us to appreciate there are things other than growing the economy that we have to pay attention to. Cork Food Policy Council (CFPC) is a civil society organisation [of statutory, community and voluntary groups, educational institutions and businesses] committed to working towards building a healthier, more sustainable, more equitable food system for the people of Cork. CFPC began in 2013 and had a big launch on St Patricks Day 2014, when we fed 5,000 people on the Grand Parade, using one ton of veg destined for landfill. The CFPC is very much about raising awareness about healthy and sustainable food and the idea is not to simply replicate this idea that Cork is the food capital of Ireland but to also note that there are people in Cork who cant afford to put food on the table so how can we create a more socially just food system for everyone in Cork Its about finding a way of networking, exchanging ideas. A good example would be growing projects in the South Parish, working with Cork Healthy Cities project. Its about creating visibility around plants, greening the historic core of Cork, using edible plants in particular and encouraging people to help themselves. We are also doing a food mapping project, of food outlets across the city, everywhere that sells food supermarkets, takeaways, restaurants, food service, retail, looking at patterns of availability of food and its consumption. PERMACULTURE DESIGN Virginia OGara Ecology graduate, food activist, proprietor (with husband Donal OGara) of My Goodness vegan food company. I came to Ireland from Texas to do the course on permaculture in the Kinsale college, the only place in the world to have it at the time. Sustainability is kind of a loaded term and can be used and misused but, to me, you have to study the patterns of nature and permaculture design encourages you to create the perfect sustainable design. In permaculture design you dont have waste; in nature you dont have waste. Everything that is produced from a plant is used within the system. The forest is a perfect example to understand its patterns and emulate its sustainable cycles: work is minimal, it synthesises what it needs from sunshine and water and CO2 and any of its waste products are cycled back into the forest; the perfect design, little work, zero waste. Were far from being perfect but keep trying our best every year to waste less. We use as much of a vegetable as we possibly can through dehydrating, preserving, fermentation, putting it back into the stock for the broth that we make. We make sauerkraut crackers from the brine from our sauerkraut and the tops and tails and skins of our vegetables and flax seeds. We buy local whenever available, supporting our local chemical-free and organic farmers, and we work at four different farmers markets every week to get the best of Corks produce and we starting to work with a group called CUSP, spreading out our zero waste ideal to Mahon Point Farmers Market" We collect rainwater and ferment it to make raw, living fermented drinks, kombucha and kefir, and we sell that it in reusable bottles as a food company, we dont produce anything that is single use, all reusable or compostable ORGANIC FARMING Fergal Anderson Organic farmer, Co Galway, growing exclusively for Michelin-starred restaurant, Loam; co-founder of Talamh Beo, an organisation of farmers, growers and land workers. Id worked with farming organisations [Via Campesina, Brussels] and seen how they could empower farmers, and I had a real sense of disempowerment amongst Irish farmers, even those on the fringes doing different projects. They werent being put front and centre, the narrative was always dominated by Big Ag. The Talamh Beo core group started with six men and six women a concious decision from the get-go to ensure parity of representation and the idea is to give a voice to farmers to articulate an alternative vision as to what the landscape and the Irish agricultural system could look like, addressing cultural as well as economic barriers, looking at concepts like Regenerative Agriculture regenerating degraded soil, sustaining something which has already been badly damaged and agro-ecology, which is more than just a production system but looks at how a farm fits into a place, socially, culturally and economically. We are looking at low input systems, reducing the dependence on inputs, imported feeds and imported and synthetic fertilisers and dependence on fossil fuels input, which are unsustainable into the future. We want to regrow the community around food production, to regrow local economies around food, fuel and fibre production, to create sustainable industries based on our own production, not just imports, and there is huge untapped potential for that in Ireland. We want to put the culture back into agriculture. WASTE WATCHERS Keelin Tobin Researcher, Clean Technology Centre, CIT; food activist and a co-founder of CUSP (Cork Urban Soil Project) CUSP is a year-long experiment to deal with waste in a new way. Weve picked one place, Mahon Farmers Market, working with My Goodness stallholder, Virginia OGara, and market co-ordinator, Rupert Hugh-Jones and the traders at market to change the way people behave and to transform the waste into a reusable resource. First, we would encourage waste prevention, encouraging people to bring reusable containers to try and break down single use. Then, all traders will use compostable packaging and the idea is to ensure it ends up in the right bin. Very often companies go to the extra cost and effort of using recyclable or compostable packaging but it is taken off site and put into general waste. We will take it away, separate it out and see if it can be turned into workable compost, using a biodigester [a container that rapidly and organically breaks down and digests waste, turning it into compost in 48 hours]. We want to see if we can come up with something that can be ploughed back into the soil. Biodigesters have been shown to work but it is a question of establishing whether or not it can work as part of an overall system such as this. Any compost system needs a 50-50 balance of nitrogen-rich and carbon-rich, the greens and the browns but it will depend on variables, what season it is, how busy the market is, so it will require very careful management and oversight We dont have all the answers, even though I work in waste its not easy because there are a lot of stakeholders involved but we just want to see if we can do it and provide learnings for others. We dont know if its something thats easy to use but we want to record information about capacities, costs and any other potential impediments, to learn as much as possible from the whole endeavour. Composting is a fine balance. I know enough to know it is not as simple as ploughing it back into the soil but there is no away place for waste. We want to take responsibility and come up with solutions and would love for the end product to be a reusable resource, something nutritious to return to the soil. In 1991, the Temple Bar Architectural Framework Plan was welcomed as a visionary approach to creating a new cultural quarter for Dublin in one of the most historic areas of the city. Group 91 was born and included many architects who are now internationally recognised. Their task was to develop a bustling cultural, residential, and small business precinct that will attract visitors in significant numbers. Getting the balance right between the protection of an historic city and the promotion of development was met in Dublin in the 1990s by combining the Temple Bar approach in the city centre with development of the docklands. The Temple Bar approach eventually spread across the city to include the repair of vast areas of the historic centre. The World Bank has recognised that a citys conserved historic core can differentiate that city from competing locations, branding it nationally and internationally, thus helping the city to attract investment and talented people. The Greek city of Miletus was designed in the 5th century BC. It is considered to be the first ever urban plan in the European tradition. Through Greek and Roman civilisations and the Renaissance in Europe, cities adopted the same forms of design that we still see clearly today, from Istanbul to Stockholm and everywhere between. Cork developed in a time of great prosperity in the 17th and 18th centuries in the new Age of Enlightenment at the end of this great defining period in our history. The 18th century was a golden age. Cork was Irelands main trading port, competing with Amsterdam, Antwerp, London, and Bristol. Worldwide trade meant the city was on the information superhighway of the day and as modern and well informed as any city could be. This resulted in a cultured place of advanced knowledge of the arts of architecture and urban design. In the early 18th century, Cork was visually comparable to Amsterdam, Copenhagen or London, with open quaysides, clay tiles on roofs, and brick-faced facades. As the century progressed, the city adopted the Palladian design principles that define Georgian architecture, including bow-fronted windows and monumental classical buildings of white limestone. Applying accepted wisdom of urban design in a city of wealth and knowledge led to great sophistication in the urban landscape of Cork, never before seen in Ireland. Architects, painters, sculptors, stonemasons and joiners thrived in this environment. The quality of design was refined by the study of continental forms of classicism from Greece and Rome, resulting in a highly sophisticated uniformity of thinking and of skills that had not been seen before or matched since. Limestone provided one of the best building materials, that rivalled the quality of the stone of Venice and Verona in form and colour. The entire urban streetscape was defined by dark flag stone, contrasted by the whiteness of limestone kerbstones, exactly as can be seen in Venice today. When Cork required the extension of its medieval quays in the 18th and 19th century the best forms of Georgian maritime engineering were employed as part of a great seafaring tradition. Abercrombie, when appointed to survey historic Cork in 1925, said that the riverside landscape of the city should be jealously guarded. He spoke of the pleasing curves of the river, the decorative values of bridges, and the discerning placement of public buildings. Equally, the tradition of constructing buildings on the edge of the river that stretches from Parliament Bridge to Lancaster Quay defined our medieval city. It is the specific nature of Cork, combined with the unity of ideas of the European tradition that makes the city significant and worth protecting. Good design can be quantified. In its simplest form, good design is defined by an economy of thinking, meaning the requirement to create something new is balanced by a need to create the greatest benefit for the least use of resources. Good design is created in nature by infinite consideration of all that is required to create something that is fit for purpose without any waste or excess. Good design respects the forms and materials of historic context, preferring ingenious solutions for development opportunities. Cities like Cork require protection from the modern world, where the application of a limited set of design criteria can lead to distorted buildings that dilute significance. We rely on local and national structures to create new opportunities for development and to create boundaries that may protect the value of our historic cities. Protecting Cork requires a confident city authority, not in crisis, that values the specific nature of the city and is willing to protect it. Successful cities define their historic centre or river landscape as assets and opportunities that may support economic development and expansion. Currently, our greatest opportunity for development is to expand the city east into the dockland area. Cork could look forward to a significantly better outcome for development if expansion to the east is combined with the respectful repair of what lies to the west. The old town of any modern city lucky to have one can become a place of leisure and cultural pursuits that supports sensitive new development. Cork is at a crossroads in its history, hovering between limited or enlightened thinking in the next phase of its development. There are many issues to be faced but the issue of flood defences requires obvious consideration. In 2018, Cork lost millions in potential investment from central funding for urban development and climate change study. Money that could have sensitively paved Morrisons Island or created a design-led masterplan by which the entire quarter could be developed, wasnt applied for. New reports on ground water issues relating to city centre flood walls and pumping systems at worst put the foundations of Holy Trinity Church at risk, and at best warn us that Cork will flood from underground regardless of any flood walls built. A highly flawed flood defence scheme is creating economic uncertainty in our city and is limiting the real potential of Cork. We have the viable option to say yes to climate change infrastructure that is proven to provide faster, more economical flood protection for more of our city. We need to start defining our own future because only we know the real potential of our city. The poet Paula Meehan recently compared the consequences of living with a malformed poem, or a dangerous poem, or a badly-built poem and that of living with bad architecture, recognising the great responsibility given by society to architects and urban designers; but we face greater additional challenges than this in the modern world. Energy consumption, climate change, and mass extinction of life on Earth form the great questions of our time. We have many decisions to take for a city worthy of our ancestors. Solutions need to be informed. They may also need to be radical. John Hegarty graduated in architecture and urban design from the Mackintosh School of Architecture in Glasgow. He is a member of the Royal Institute of the Architects of Ireland and RIBA, and a director of Save Cork City. There are myriad examples of how that vague, mercurial entity the market has not delivered on the promise of the better future its champions assured us was inevitable once we placed our faith in investors and entrepreneurs. Competition, they promised, was the catalyst that would turn the tide and lift all boats. Our housing crisis, our struggling two-tier health service, runaway insurance costs not to mention the unaccountable tech giants and the banks and the blank-cheque broadband fiasco show how misplaced that optimism was and is. There were few champions of the market more certain unhinged if you prefer than Margaret Thatcher. However, 40 years after she became Britains prime minister academics conclude that the consequences of her policies, ones that devasted swathes of Britain, were a driving force behind the vote to quit the EU. That Britain has five of the poorest regions in the EU shows how wrong Thatcher was even if that sorry fact may help explain the unexplainable vote of June 2016. Her legacy is as shaming as its failure is indisputable. Even if these examples show how very unwise it is to buy the idea that the market is always a force for good we persist with the hope that it will deliver on well-flagged and growing social obligations. The decision to change the terms of the nursing homes Fair Deal scheme to allow farmers enjoy the protection of a new cap on care contributions is another example of our hope that private businesses will fill social service needs. Whether this is prferential treatment or not is a question for another day but is a reminder that there is a growing need for nursing home care. This was recognised when tax incentives were offered to encourage expansion in the sector. Whether that investment keeps pace with the needs of an aging population is an open question. So too is the level of service provided across the sector. This has been recognised in new guidelines aimed at making care contracts more transparent so elderly people or their families do not face unexpected top-up charges for services that seem basic rather than additional. Two years ago, an investigation concluded that more than 300 nursing homes charged over 16m a year in add-on charges for social activities, games, or various therapies. Age Action Ireland described a case where a woman was charged close enough to 100 a week in excess fees. A Government review was promised two years ago but it has not been published, at least partially because many nursing homes have not co-operated. Reliable social partners indeed. Last September the Department of Finance warned that our aging population will cause a huge increase in public debt. That report foresaw massive increases in age-related costs and warned policy changes are needed. That these alarm bells ring so loudly in a country with a two-tier, if not a three-tier, system of pension provision shows the scale of the challenge. Anyone who believes the market, a mechanism that prioritises profit, will fill that need in a way that offers dignity and comfort to old people, is as deluded as those Tories who imagined Thatcher a saviour. Business New Terminal Construction to Begin with Port Traffic Expected to Rise Shipping containers are stacked at Yangons Asia World Port on September 16, 2016. / The Irrawaddy YANGONAdani, registered in Myanmar and incorporated in Singapore, will develop a new international port container terminal in Ahlone township, on the Yangon River in Myanmars commercial capital, with expectations of increased container traffic in Myanmar in the coming years. Adani Myanmar was granted permission by the Myanmar Investment Commission (MIC) in late April to develop, operate and maintain the Ahlone International Port Terminal 2 (AIPT) on 54 acres of land, with a 630-meter (2,067-foot) jetty owned by the Myanmar Economic Corporation. According to the MIC, the concession period is for an initial 50 years. We are very hopeful container traffic in Myanmar and Yangon will increase as the economy and trade grow. [Were] expecting Myanmar GDP to grow by 6.5 to 7 percent in the coming years, Sunil Seth, CEO of Adani Yangon International Terminal Co. Ltd., told The Irrawaddy. Adani is expected to implement the port at a total cost of $290 million, dividing construction into two phases. Phase one is anticipated to begin in September and take 12 months to complete, able to handle a maximum 150,000 20-foot equivalent units (each equal to a twenty-foot container, also known as a TEU) once completed. Phase two is expected to take another five or six months and will enable the port to handle a maximum 800,000 TEUs. We will bring the best technology to this port. High throughput and quick turnaround for vessels will be our main focus, Sunil Seth said. The India-based Adani Groupmainly focused on infrastructure development, ports, logistics, energy, shipping and railhas revenues of over $11 billion. Yangon already has at least 12 port terminals, but port traffic has increased nearly 13 percent over the last four years, according to the Myanmar Port Authority. In March, Myanmar launched the National Export Strategy (NES) 2020-2025 to boost Myanmar exports, mostly in agricultural, fisheries, forestry, mineral and CMP products, among others. According to the Ministry of Commerce, as of April 26, Myanmars overseas trade stood at $19.9 billion for the 2018-2019 fiscal year, an increase of $700 million over the same time period last year. The ministry expects to reach $31.1 billion in total trade volume in the coming months$15.3 billion in exports and $15.8 billion in imports. We expect Myanmar exports to grow from current levels in the areas of agro commodities, rice, garments, footwear, light machinery, etc. Sunil Seth said. Arts Art Exhibition Questions a Gender Discriminatory Status Quo Artist Htein Lin sits at one of the pieces that will be exhibited in his upcoming exhibition, Skirting the Issue, at River Gallery. / Aung Kyaw Htet / The Irrawaddy YANGONFrom Saturday, a series of portraits of women painted on traditional fabric by renowned artist and former political prisoner Htein Lin will hang in River Gallery in downtown Yangon. An outsider to Myanmar culture could hardly guess how improper or even scandalous the sight of a series of htamein, the sarong worn on Burmese womens lower half, painted and hanging above and around the viewers could appear to some. But Htein Lins exhibition is going to cause quite a stir. Men lose their hpone if they pass under womens htameins. Womens htameins are put at the back of the house. Womens htameins are washed separately from others clothes. This is a quote by a woman named Saw Theingi Thet written on her own used htamein in Burmese. The artist then completed the canvas with a portrait of her in acrylic paint. The hpone she is referring to is a mans strength, power or nobility. It is invisible, intangible, but Myanmar has a long-standing superstition that women, as the weaker of the species, can damage it by mixing their htamein with mens clothing. Htameins are considered uncleaneven after washing. Moreover, the superstition says that men will damage their hpone by walking under a clothes line where htameins hang. Its customary in Myanmar for womens clothes to be hung at the back of the house or below mens clothing. In Htein Lins exhibition, in the middle of the htamein portraits, men and women alike will be invited inside a huge hollow sculpture which itself is made of used htameins sewn together in the shape of a head. They are invited to look through the gap of the eyes and have their photo snapped, perhaps to be shared on their social media later. The message would be: I dont follow the belief that womens clothing can damage a mans power, and it would be shared with the worldif they dare. The exhibition is about the Burmese culture and Burmese identity. This is also linked with social media because every painting I have done, I posted it on Facebook to let people know. This project is for the community to think about these issues, said Htein Lin in River Gallery as he made preparations for the exhibition, which will run from May 11 to May 19. Htein Lin invited women to contribute their used htameins to his art project. He then called them to his studio to paint their portrait and ask them whether they believe the superstition, whether they wash their clothes together with their husbands or wash and hang them separately. We have many of these kinds of beliefs, but particularly these gender issues. We have to rethink it because our society is changing. Now, men and women all go out working and now they share responsibilities. In my childhood memories, almost all the women in my village were housewives. But now the women are mostly working, they are professionals, he said. The women who took part in Htein Lins project come from various backgrounds, both rural and urban areas and includes those living in Myanmar and abroadand their thoughts on the topic were equally as varied. I could never go against the custom that says if a man goes under a womans htamein he loses his hpone. That is because I grew up in a family in which most of the family members are men. But starting from my children, I am going to teach them that this custom is wrong, Daw Win Win Tint, chief executive officer of City Mart Holdings, is quoted as saying on her htamein artwork. Htein Lin said he is not judging the people who follow the custom or telling them to stop; he said he respects all these women but wants to make society think critically about their beliefs. I just want to encourage more independent thinking. Its a custom, we know that, but we also need to be free from that kind of belief. Its not a reality to have in your daily life right now, he said. Htein Lin recounted the incident of a young woman who was given six months jail time for writing a post on Facebook with two photos comparing Senior General Min Aung Hlaings new uniform to Daw Aung San Suu Kyis htamein. He said that the gender discrimination goes right up to a political level. The military were so insulted! The problem was not about Aung San Suu Kyi. The problem was with her htamein. Thats why [the woman] was [given] six months in prison. That was unforgivable, he said. The exhibition at River Gallery runs from May 11 to 19 with an opening event on Saturday from 5:30 p.m. I am not unmindful that there are people in the public who believe that my being on this case somehow taints the proceedings, he said. I am ever mindful, as former Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia opined in a dissent once, that the appearance of justice is often as important as justice itself. Asia Thai Election Results Show No Clear Winner but Junta Party Favored A smiling Prayut Chan-ocha, the former Royal Thai Army general who became Prime Minister after the countrys 2014 coup, casts a ballot in the now-contested 2019 general election in Bangkok on March 24, 2019. / REUTERS BANGKOKThe long-delayed results of Thailands first election since a 2014 military coup released on Wednesday produced no clear winner but gave a pro-army party a clear advantage in its bid to install the current junta leader as an elected prime minister. The opposition threatened legal action against Wednesdays results, saying that a new seat allocation formula robbed the democratic front alliance of a majority in the 500-seat House of Representatives. The results are likely to set up a period of coalition building, since neither the pro-military bloc of parties nor a democratic front opposition alliance so far has enough votes to elect a prime minister under rules written by the junta. Any government that emerges is likely to be weak, because even if the junta leaders party forms the government, it will still have to contend with the possibility of defections with allies in the lower house to pass legislation. It will still be weeks before any government can be formed while a junta-selected committee finishes appointing the Senate, the 250-seat upper house of parliament that will vote together with the elected House to choose the prime minister. Still, Wednesdays results made it more likely that the party of coup leader Prayuth Chan-ocha will stay in power because it needs fewer allies among small and medium-sized parties to get to the 376 votes needed to elect the prime minister in the combined House and Senate vote. Prayuths Palang Pracharat party said it was confident it would lead to the formation of the next government, but didnt yet name its allies. We will coordinate with other parties who share our ideology and are interested in forming a government together, said its leader, Uttama Savanayana, a former minister under Prayuths previous cabinets. The Pheu Thai party, allied to ousted Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, vowed to pursue every legal means to reverse an Election Commission formula it says favored tiny parties at the expense of its own larger vote-getters. The Pheu Thai Party sees the Election Commissions proceedings as deliberate actions and use of power in violations of the constitution and the (electoral) law, it said in a statement. The opposition had already complained the post-coup election rules were written to give advantage to pro-army parties, because the appointed Senate is likely to vote along with Prayuths party. The Election Commission and the junta deny any bias in the electoral law. Palang Pracharat needs control over only about 126 seats in the House to vote in Prayuth as prime minister, under the assumption it will get most or all of the junta-appointed Senates 250 votes. Palang Pracharat won 115 seats in the House, according to Wednesdays results from the Election Commission. Parties it is allied with won seven seats, bringing it to 122 votes. That means Palang Pracharat needs only to gain four or more votes from the 16 unaligned parties that won 131 seats combined. The democratic front of seven parties won a combined 245 seats in the House, falling just short of the majority in the 500-seat lower house. Two seats have not yet been allocated pending re-votes ordered by the Election Commission. The electoral rules make it practically impossible for the opposition to overcome the Senates vote to form a government. But it had hoped gaining a majority in the lower house would allow it to block the junta from retaining nearly unrestrained power it has wielded since the military takeover five year Burma 6 Prisons Hit by Riots over Unfair Pardons; Inmates Reported Killed Shwebo Prison on Thursday morning / Voice of Myanmar / Facebook MANDALAY Six prisons across the country have been hit by rioting as inmates vent their anger at not having been included in Tuesdays presidential pardon. Following a riot Wednesday at Shwebo Prison in Sagaing Division, hundreds of inmates staged protests to demand their freedom at Maw Lite Prison in Sagaings Kalay Township and at the prison in Hpa-an, Karen State on the same day. Police and prison authorities were able to bring the unrest at Maw Lite and Hpa-an prisons under control quickly. Protests were also reported at the prison in Myitkyina, Kachin State, Tharyarwaddy Prison in Pegu Division, and Pathein Prison in Irrawaddy Division on Thursday morning. Myitkyina and Tharyarwaddy prisons both boosted security and banned visits by relatives. According to sources at Shwebo Prison, authorities opened fire on Wednesday night after a warden was assaulted by rioting inmates, leading to four deaths. The sources said four inmates died on the spot and at least five were injured. The Irrawaddy was not able to obtain confirmation of the deaths from prison authorities as of Thursday morning, however. Sagaing Division Chief Minister Dr. Myint Naing was at Shwebo Prison on Thursday morning discussing the situation with prison authorities and representatives of the inmates. According to Shwebo Prison authorities, the inmates have requested permission to meet with the media to demand an investigation into the shooting deaths. The rioting inmates demanded equal treatment after more than 6,000 prisoners were released on Tuesday under a presidential pardon. Weve talked with them and told them that we will submit their demands to the government officials. They have calmed down but are still unsatisfied, for they are saying that famous people who received the same punishment [as them] were freed, Police Colonel U Aung Kyaw, who was at the Maw Lite Prison to control the situation, told The Irrawaddy on Wednesday. He was referring to the release of Ko Moe Aung Yin, an actor who was put behind bars under the Anti-Narcotics Law and released on May 7 after receiving a presidential pardon. Some questioned whether the prion riots were orchestrated to create unrest in the country. Lawyer U Khin Maung Myint, who once worked as a prison superintendent, told The Irrawaddy that the riots could be the result of a misunderstanding among the inmates. The inmates are not clear about [the difference between] amnesties and presidential pardons. In an amnesty, every inmate is eligible and it is done by the commander-in-chief. A presidential pardon is given by the president to certain persons after a certain number of months or years of the prison term is served. The inmates only know about the amnesty. Since they were not among those freed, they staged the protest, he said. The lawyer said that prison overcrowding could be another reason for the riots. Since the prisons are overcrowded, the prison authorities are badly outnumbered. The inmates are uncomfortable and there are many problems causing them to search for a way out. This could be one of the reasons leading to the prison riot, as they were not among those who received a presidential pardon after three rounds [of pardons] since the Myanmar New year, he said. On April 17, this years traditional New Year, 9,535 inmates were freed by presidential pardon. Another 6,948 were freed on April 26 and 6,520 on May 7. To ease the rioting, in my opinion, the government needs to review the punishments of the inmates and consider an amnesty. But we must be cautious; we do not want to create an incentive to riot by granting amnesties. Handling prison riots is very tricky and a headache for the government, he said. Burma Biman Bangladesh plane skids off runway in Yangon, 17 injured The fuselage of Bombardier Dash 8 after the crash in Yangon International Airport. / the Department of Civil Aviation Myanmar Burma Deadly Shwebo Prison Riot Brought Under Control after 20 Hours Riot police are deployed at Shwebo Prison in Sagaing Division on Thursday. / Voice of Myanmar / Facebook MANDALAYA prison riot in Shwebo, Sagaing Division that began Wednesday and left four inmates dead and two injured was finally brought under control on Thursday after about 20 hours, with prison authorities using tear gas to disperse the protesters, the regional chief minister told The Irrawaddy. Sagaing Division Chief Minister Dr. Myint Naing was on the scene at Shwebo Prison on Thursday, together with the regional minister for security and border affairs, police officers and local authorities, to negotiate with the rioting inmates. We told the inmates to calm down and go back to their cells, as they had gathered in the prison compound. Since they did not listen and kept shouting slogans, the prison authorities and police used tear gas to disperse them. Now the situation is under control and stable, the chief minister told The Irrawaddy. The chief minister said a negotiating team promised the inmates it would raise their grievances with the central government. However, the inmates said security officials had used unnecessary force to bring the situation under control. According to the chief minister, the rioting prisoners destroyed Shwebo Prisons clinic. He added that prison authorities and police seized various kind of weapons such as iron rods, bamboo rods and tools from the rioters. The riot at Shwebo broke out on Wednesday night as the inmates were staging a protest demanding the government free them under an amnesty. Later the same day, a riot broke out in Maw Lite prison in Sagaings Kalay Township. The protesting inmates reportedly said the presidential pardons issued on April 17, April 26 and May 7 were unfair, as the remaining prisoners had been left without hope of gaining their freedom. Prisoners also rioted in Myitkyina Prison in Kachin State, Hpa-an Prison in Karen State, Tharyarwaddy Prison in Pegu division and Pathein Prison in Irrawaddy Division, where the inmates demanded a wider prisoner amnesty from the government, as well as permission to meet media representatives inside the prison, and a meeting with the Human Rights Council. All of the prison riots aside from the one at Shwebo Prison were brought under control without casualties. The prison authorities told us that the riot [in Shwebo] erupted after a clash between inmates and a warden. Later, on Wednesday night, the prison authorities opened fire to disperse the rioters, leaving four inmates dead, the chief minister told The Irrawaddy. During the riot, an inmate used a mobile phone to live-stream the situation inside the prison on Facebook. He posted many video clips and pictures of the riot, leading locals to question the security situation at the prison. It is illegal to possess a mobile phone in prison. The prison authorities have found the inmates who posted live streaming video, pictures and video clips on Facebook. The prison authorities are conducting an investigation and legal action will be taken against those who incited the riot, as per prison rules and regulations, the chief minister said. I can understand the frustration of being imprisoned and not getting a chance at freedom while the others are freed. However, rioting is not the answer, he said. On April 17, 9,535 inmates were released under a presidential pardon. On April 26, another 6,948 received pardons, followed by 6,520 on May 7. A total of 57 inmates from Shwebo Prison were released on April 26 and 512 were freed on May 7. Burma Huawei to Supply Mandalays Safe City Project with Cameras, Security Equipment A surveillance camera is seen in front of Huaweis logo outside its factory campus in Dongguan in Chinas Guangdong province on March 25, 2019. / Reuters MANDALAYChinese telecommunications giant Huawei will provide surveillance cameras and other security equipment for use in Mandalays Safe City plan, according to a Mandalay regional government minister. The regional government will sign a deal with Huawei next month to establish Mandalay as a Safe City, regional Minister for Electricity, Industry and Construction U Zarni Aung told The Irrawaddy on Wednesday. A lot of progress has been made toward signing the contract. We have to examine the standard and prices of every item, as we are using government funds to implement [the plan], the minister said. As part of the Safe City plan, CCTV cameras will be installed in crime-ridden parts of the city. The cameras will be equipped with artificial intelligence (AI) and facial-recognition technology, as well as alarm systems to alert the nearest police station in case of a crime. The cost is expected to be 1.9 billion kyats. The CCTV cameras will initially be installed in Maha Aung Myay, Chan Mya Thazi and Pyi Gyi Tagun townships. The three townships are large and have relatively high crime rates, according to a survey conducted by district police and Huawei. As Mandalay has developed, people from other parts of the country have come to work here, so there are different types of people here now. And authorities still havent been able to tackle the drug problem. As the project will be implemented with public funds, it is important to make sure that it benefits the people, Mandalay resident Ko Sithu Kyaw told The Irrawaddy. The smart CCTV monitoring system will come into operation within six months of the contract being signed. The system will be expanded to other parts of the city and toll gates depending on the availability of funds, the minister said. We want to guarantee the rule of law and security for the city. So, we will launch the Safe City plan. There will be stability only when there is rule of law and security. Only then will investors come to us, regional Chief Minister Dr. Zaw Myint Maung said at the Mandalay Economic Forum in March. Amid widespread allegations that Huawei has close links to Beijing and has been involved in espionage against Western governments, the companys chief financial officer, Meng Wanzhou, was arrested in Canada in December at the request of the U.S., which accuses the firm of committing fraud by lying to U.S. banks to avoid complying with Washingtons sanctions on Iran. Huawei rejects the charges. Everyone knows the Chinese-American drama. I dont want to dwell on it. But even the E.U. uses Huawei for its 5G network. China is our neighbor and we have no doubt about the technologies of Huawei, minister U Zarni Aung said. Mandalay District already has a CCTV surveillance system in place. Local police have installed 130 monitors across the district, including at important entry and exit points, as a crime-prevention tool. After a rash of muggings in Mandalay at the end of last year, the regional government launched an anti-crime scheme. In the first three months of the campaign, police arrested around 300 suspects in over 200 cases of mugging, according to the regional Security and Border Affairs Ministry. Guest Column Womens Participation in Politics Undermined by the NLD Ethnic women arrive at the Panglong Peace Conference in Naypyitaw in July 2018. / Htet Wai / The Irrawaddy A lack of political will and interest in promoting women leadership at national level is being compromised by the competing agendas of the National League for Democracy (NLD)-led government. Though the NLD recently renewed its commitment to increase female representation by calling for a minimum of 30 percent of female representation in each sector of the government, women are still gravely underrepresented in politics. The March announcement comes in stark contrast to comments made in 2018 when the party stated they did not support the implementation of a quota system for women in positions of political leadership. In the much-touted series of Union Peace Conferences (UPC), more than 670 women are contributing to peace buildingand yet roughly one quarter serve as formal delegates to the UPC. Women continue to face challenges in their communities, including violence which includes physical and emotional abuse that threatens their safety and security. Womens groups have worked together in solidarity with calls for much needed and long-overdue reforms to legislation that must go further in protecting women, including the Prevention and Protection of Violence Against Women Act Burma law, which was set to be enacted early this year. Many women in leadership positions feel held back and experience limitations in their ability to lead due to the centralization of power in Myanmar at the national level of politics. Before the NLD was in power, womens organizations had to work extremely hard to have recognition in society alongside the democracy movements taking place on the [Myanmar] border, says Maw Ehwah, general secretary of the Burmese Womens Union. On International Womens Day on March 8, the government announced plans to implement a 2013-2022 national strategic plan for the advancement of women that targets 12 main focus points in gender equality, in line with the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) and the Beijing Declaration and its Platform for Action. Despite signing the CEDAW in February 2000, the optional protocols to established complaint and inquiry mechanisms have not been ratified. Unfortunately, the NLDs approach to working with civil society groups has fragmented and sowed divisions in the gender equality movement. The activities of civil society are being closely monitored as the Myanmar military continues to maintain significant power and influence over key ministries, notably the Department of Home Affairs. In addition, the NLD has received sharp criticism this year over the increase in lawsuits against human rights activists, notably the Kachin human rights defenders, Nang Pu, Lum Zawng and Zau Jat, who were released in May after serving four months in prison for defaming the military during an anti-war protest. Another more recent case was the arrest of Naw Ohn Hla, a land rights and political activist, together with four colleagues in Myawaddy, Karen State following a protest over a controversial housing project at the end of April 2019. The 2008-military drafted Constitution makes it difficult for the defacto head of state, Daw Aung San Suu Kyi to challenge ministries that override female participation. One such example is Chapter 8, Article 352 which makes the point, nothing in this section shall prevent the appointment of men to the positions that are suitable for men only. Daw Aung San Suu Kyis underwhelming stance on the womens leadership advancement has been a disappointment. Her close working relationship with the military has also led to apprehension from civil society on the new NLD agenda and in particular how it seeks to create more opportunities for women in leadership at a national level. Currently, women compromise just over 11 percent of the 433 seats in Lower House of Parliament and 12 percent of 224 seats in the Upper House. General Secretary of the Karenni National Womens Organization (KNWO) Mie Mie says the lack of cooperation and understanding from the NLD has contributed to additional barriers for women interested in entering politics. This includes a lack of reforms to the electoral system or consideration to developing a gender equality policy. As a result of these attitudes and actions, civil society groups has become more reserved in their working relationships with government authorities. Organizations who arrange protests or advocacy events require extensive permission from the Ministry of Home Affairs through the Peaceful Assembly Law. Womens organizations like KNWO have felt the impacts of restrictions imposed on civil society operations through a lack of public meetings with female members of parliament (MPs), contributing to a notable gap in meaningful dialogue between the government and key local advocates. The NLD-government is not willing to coordinate with civil society and they dont seem to have the capacity or knowledge on how to coordinate with stakeholders. Another problem is that the State government is not aware of the current political context and they dont listen to the voices of the people, said Mie Mie. When peoples participation is limited, so are the activities of civil society, and this which disrupts the platform that civil society organizations (CSOs) use to advocate in the political sphere to appeal for human rights and equality. Maw Ehwah acknowledges how the role of the military has contributed to the fragmented image of the NLD over the years saying theyve made operations more difficult. Largely, the frustration stems from the acceptance and adherence to the prioritization of male leadership over women. Under the present government, it is evident that womens participation in politics and leadership is not respected. This can be seen in the lack of female participation in the peace process, said Maw Ehwah. Lway Nan Moe is a female member of parliament representing the Taang National Party. In 2015, she ran for election and won a seat in the Lower House. She is the also a member of the Parliaments International Relations Committee where she is the only woman on the central working committee alongside 64 men. Its hard for a young woman to be in politics, but I never complain and I am not afraid of anything. I am like a man, she said. Mong Ton Township is a conflict area in northern Shan State with constant fighting. Its also the township Lway Nan Moe represents. I refuse to let the conflict stop me from campaigning. The people need me. Whatever I can give, I give. I must go meet them, she said. Given the lack of female representation in politics, she recognizes the importance of maintaining her influence as a strong young woman with management and political experience. Frustrated, she says men do not want to give women seats for representation. Of 20 government committees, only three are chaired by women: The Committee for Government Accountability, the Committee for Banking and Development and the Committee for Women. She also wants to see more ethnic leadership. As womens groups continue to work towards strengthening and coordinating their efforts for change in the country, including in the attitudes and perceptions of men, the government must work with both genders to increase awareness at every level on the importance of equal representation. Challenging traditional roles is possible through reforms to the political system which should allow women to have a space to practice their skills with confidence. Some of the things the government could do to support women more willingly is to incorporate gender budgeting, instill quota systems in political parties and in the government system. The NLD has much to gain if the contributions of women are taken into account in the future planning of the countrys economic and social success, especially at the discussions taking place at the Union Panglong Conferences. Otherwise, their ability to progress will continue to be undermined by the lack of policy promoting equality for women which is needed at national level. Maggi Quadrini is based in Chiang Mai and works as communications officer for the Shan Womens Action Network. She also researches womens activism in Myanmar. Thursday, May 9th, 2019 (11:16 am) - Score 2,799 Further details have today been revealed about a new UK Government funded project that will see ten councils (outside of Belfast) in Northern Ireland coming together in order to benefit from a new Gigabit speed full fibre (FTTP / Dark Fibre) network, which aims to connect around 880 public sector sites by March 2021. The deployment is being supported by a public investment of 15 million, which was recently awarded under Wave 3 of the UK Governments Local Full Fibre Networks (LFFN) programme (here). As part of that ten councils have formed the Full Fibre Northern Ireland Consortium (FFNI) to oversee the project and this is being led by the Newry, Mourne and Down District Council. The project appears to follow the usual Public-Sector Anchor Tenancy model, which will first focus upon connecting public sector sites to the new fibre optic lines before later opening this network up for use by ISPs to offer 1Gbps broadband services to local businesses and possibly even homes. At the time of writing we do not yet have a full list of all the councils that will benefit from the new network, although we note that both the Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council and the Derry City and Strabane District Council have put out supporting announcements. Margot James, UK Minister for Digital, said: Were building a Britain thats fit for the future, and our plans for a national full fibre broadband network underpin our modern Industrial Strategy. This 15 million boost for gigabit speeds in Northern Ireland will benefit homes and businesses across the country and I congratulate the Full Fibre Northern Ireland Consortium in its successful bid. Mark Murnin, Newry, Mourne & Down District Council Chairman, said: I am delighted that the FFNI Consortium has secured additional funding from DCMS to support the enhancement of digital infrastructure across Northern Ireland. Investing in connectivity is essential for economic growth and prosperity and will help to further establish both Newry, Mourne and Down and all of Northern Ireland as a digital destination for investment, jobs and business infrastructure. This is an excellent example of local councils working together for the benefit of the whole region. The announcements all state that currently only 12% of premises in Northern Ireland have access to full fibre connectivity, although that is based off Ofcoms figure from September 2018 and the ferocious pace of change means that this has already risen to 16% in January 2019; the highest level of full fibre coverage in the United Kingdom. UPDATE 1:13pm The full list of 10 councils is as follows. Alleging consumer fraud and deceptive business practices, the suit claimed Twist made numerous false claims to the trucker after he arrived at the March 18 accident scene near the 3300 block of South Archer Avenue. One of those false claims was that he would contact Chicago police and file a crash report on the truckers behalf. But the trucking companys owner soon learned that no report was filed after he called police to get his own copy and complain about the towing fees. Thursday, May 9th, 2019 (10:10 am) - Score 3,402 City focused fibre optic (FTTP/B) broadband ISP Hyperoptic has today appointed Peter White to be its new Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and Naleena Gururani as their Chief People Officer (CPO). Both will work to help them roll-out a full fibre network to 2 million UK homes by 2021 and 5 million by 2024. The move follows last years announcement of a 500m deployment plan (here), which is being supported by the investment arm of the Government of Abu Dhabi (Mubadala Investment Company) and others. Hyperoptics 1000+ workforce is expected to increase during this growth period to enable the company to scale its operations and become the UKs leading full fibre network provider (difficult given that Openreach has an ambition to reach 15 million with FTTP by around 2025). At present Hyperoptics network claims to cover more than 500,000 premises in parts of around 39 UK Hyper Cities (rising to 50 this year), which is usually installed inside large residential apartment buildings (e.g. Multi-Dwelling Units 50+ units / flats) or big office blocks. But theyre also looking to expand into smaller developments later in 2019, possibly even including individual housing (partly by harnessing existing cable ducts and poles). Dana Tobak, CEO of Hyperoptic, said: UK consumers are receiving some of the worst broadband connections in the world, this has led to an unprecedented demand for our gigabit full fibre connections. As part of our ambition to reach 5m homes passed, we are building an Exec team to deliver and disrupt at scale. I am delighted to welcome Peter and Naleena who have demonstrated expertise in driving exponential growth against inertial incumbents. Peter joins Hyperoptic from Workshare, a SaaS provider where he was also CFO. Previously he also held CFO positions at Lumata, a business to business mobile marketing technology services group, as well as at Ceske Radiokomunikace a.s., a provider of broadcasting, tower infrastructure and telecommunications services in the Czech Republic. Earlier in his career Peter was Corporate Finance Director at mobile network operator Three UK. Meanwhile Naleena joins the ISP from telecoms provider Lebara, where she worked for ten years in a range of senior HR roles, most recently as Global HR Director. Prior to that she was Head of International Recruitment at Infosys, a global digital services and consulting firm. Thursday, May 9th, 2019 (8:29 am) - Score 2,538 BT Groups new CEO has released his first full year results to the end of March 2019 (Q4 18/19 financial), which finds that Openreachs FTTP and G.fast based ultrafast broadband (100Mbps+) ISP network has grown its coverage to 3.2 million UK premises (up from 2.6m last quarter). Take-up of FTTP is 24.54% and G.fast 1.24%. The big announcement today, which weve covered in a separate article so as not to overflow this one, is that Openreach will now aim to deliver 4 million FTTP premises by March 2021 and 15 million by around 2025 (here). Otherwise there have been several key developments since BTs last quarterly update in January 2019 and well summarise some of those below. Over the past few months BT has had an advert banned due to their misleading UKs most powerful Wi-Fi claim (here) and theyve been sued by property developer Persimmon for allegedly unpaid work (here). Elsewhere Openreach have been able to launch their revised cable duct and pole access product for ISPs, albeit still with some caveats (here). In better news BTs consumer ISP division has managed to introduce a new broadband speed guarantee (here) and Openreach have named the next batch of 12 FTTP roll-out locations (here). Financial Highlights BTs Quarterly Change * BT Group revenue = 5,853m (down from 5,982m) * BT Group profit after tax = 513m (down from 594m) * BT Group total net debt = -11,035m (from -11,114m) Meanwhile BTs assumptions about clawback / gainshare via the governments Broadband Delivery UK roll-out programme remains unchanged (i.e. public money that can be returned and reinvested by local authorities to help superfast broadband coverage to reach around 98% of the UK by the end of 2020). The operators Q2 life-time view of their BDUK linked contracts, which predicted that take-up of their FTTC/P network within related areas could eventually reach 61%, suggested that up to around 712m of public investment could eventually be returned for the above purpose. BT Groups Capital expenditure Capital expenditure was 3,963m (2017/18: 3,522m), including network investment of 2,083m, up 21%. This includes 213m grant funding deferral under the Broadband Delivery UK (BDUK) programme, of which 168m relates to the change in base-case assumption for customer take-up announced in Q2. Excluding the effect of the grant funding deferral, capital expenditure was 3,750m. The remaining increase in network investment reflects increased spend on our Fibre Cities programme, partially offset by lower mobile investment as the Emergency Services Network (ESN) passed the peak deployment phase. Our BDUK Gainshare provision at the end of the year was 639m. Other capital expenditure components were up 5% with 929m spent on customer driven investments, 747m on systems and IT, and 204m spent on non-network infrastructure. At this point we should remind readers that BT stopped providing customer figures for their own consumer broadband ISP last year (i.e. covering up for declines), although its noted that 72.9% of their retail broadband base now take a superfast broadband connection (up from 70.5% last quarter mostly via FTTC) and this drops to 45.9% for their enterprise base. Openreachs Network Coverage The table below offers a useful breakdown of fixed line network coverage and take-up by technology. Being Openreach the listed totals apply to all ISPs on their national UK network combined (e.g. BT, Sky Broadband, TalkTalk, Vodafone etc.). Overall their hybrid fibre G.fast ultrafast broadband network now covers 2,020,000 UK premises (up from 1,708,000 last quarter) and Fibre-to-the-Premises (FTTP) covers 1,247,000 premises (up from 893,000). The FTTP rollout is now running at a faster rate (c.20,000 passed per week) than G.fast, which is an interesting reverse as previously G.fast was rolling out at a much quicker pace (the direction of travel is clear). We note that take-up of FTTP is 24.54% (down from 29.9% last quarter) and G.fast 1.24% (up from 0.88% last quarter). On the surface it might seem like G.fast is struggling for take-up and FTTP is going in reverse but this doesnt tell the whole story and would be a poor interpretation. Both technologies are in their early roll-out phase and take-up is a dynamically scaled measurement (dependent upon many factors of consumer choice and awareness), which means that at certain stages of the rollout it may go up or even down depending upon the pace of deployment (i.e. premises passed in any given time-scale), although over time the take-up should only rise as deployments reach maturity (were not there yet). G.fast only started its commercial roll-out a year ago and has made rapid progress, but adoption by ISPs has been limited (e.g. Sky Broadband has yet to offer any ultrafast packages) and those that do offer such products dont put much or any effort into advertising it (they arent even on most commercial comparison sites yet). Likewise its fighting in the same areas as Virgin Media. With time wed expect the above situation to improve but take-up is something that always takes a lot of time to grow and thats particularly true while the service is still in the rapid roll-out phase. Wed expect the picture to change once Openreach hit their c5.7million premises target by the end of 2020 but this could be scaled-back again due to the rising focus upon FTTP. On the flip side FTTP appears to have extremely good take-up and is a more attractive product, but this must be weighed against the fact that its slower to deploy (takes more resources to deliver), focuses a lot more on new builds and BDUK areas (better for take-up) and is a much more established and familiar technology. Likewise Openreach has been deploying FTTP for years and there was a long period pre-Fibre First where they could build take-up, which is now being suppressed by the increasingly rapid pace of their roll-out (we expect that to continue as they deploy ever faster and faster). So for now the message is simple, dont read too much into the take-up figures while the technologies are in a rapid deployment phase. As usual our own ISP Listings page has been displaying both ultrafast broadband products for a long time because we dont force ISPs to pay a commission in order to be shown, like big commercial comparison sites do. Philip Jansen, CEO of BT Group, said: BT delivered solid results for the year, in line with our guidance, with adjusted profit growth in Consumer and Global Services offset by declines in Enterprise and Openreach. Since joining the company three months ago, it has become clear to me just how fundamental BTs role is in connecting our society. While we are really well positioned in a very challenging and competitive UK market, we have a lot of work to do to ensure we remain successful and deliver long term sustainable value to our shareholders. We need to invest to improve our customer propositions and competitiveness. We need to invest to stay ahead in our fixed, mobile and core networks, and we need to invest to overhaul our business to ensure that we are using the latest systems and technology to improve our efficiency and become more agile. Our aim is to deliver the best converged network and be the leader in fixed ultrafast and mobile 5G networks. We are increasingly confident in the environment for investment in the UK. We have already announced the first 16 UK cities for 5G investment. Today we are announcing an increased target to pass 4m premises with ultrafast FTTP technology by 2020/21, up from 3m, and an ambition to pass 15 million premises by the mid-2020s, up from 10 million, if the conditions are right, especially the regulatory and policy enablers. For 2018/19 the Board has decided to hold the full year dividend unchanged at 15.4p per share. The Board also expects to hold the dividend unchanged in respect of the current financial year given our outlook for earnings and cash flow. Jansens message is essentially preparing shareholders for the fact that the operator will need to spend big in order to stay competitive, particularly with respect to their independent network arm Openreach (e.g. FTTP) and mobile operator EE (5G rollout is likely to cost more than 4G did, given the requirements for a denser network). Interestingly todays results did not include any mention of the previously predicted next round of job losses, which suggests that Jansen is still working to finalise his future strategy. Todays announcement also included an update on Openreachs service performance for voice and broadband products in Q4. Overall Openreach are now offering a service provision first appointment date within 12 days to 99% of customers, an improvement from 92% in Q4 2017/18. The levels of missed appointments, where Openreach was at fault, was maintained at 1.7% over the quarter, a third fewer than last year. Openreach also met all 42 copper and fibre Minimum Service Level (MSL) measures set by Ofcom. Openreachs proactive maintenance programme has continued to reduce the number of faults in the UK copper network, delivering a 2% reduction over the full year compared to 2017/18. Fewer network faults combined with improved operational planning has helped increase on time repair performance for voice and broadband products from 81% in Q4 2017/18 to 86% in the same period 2018/19. In Q4, 100% of the groups EE and Plusnet service calls and 83% of their BT service calls were answered in the UK and Ireland, as they work towards having all call centres based in the UK and Ireland from 2020. The testing will occur from 2 to 4 p.m. in the ISU Structural Laboratory (SLAB) at the Engineering Research Complex (ERC) on 1030 S. Second Ave. in Pocatello. According to PCI, each student team must work with a PCI producer member to build a precast/prestressed concrete beam that is 20 feet long. The two student teams include Team Teton Prestress and Team Forterra. Team Teton Prestress includes ISU civil and environmental engineering students Ali Shokrgozar who is pursuing a Ph.D., undergraduate Mahesh Acharya and masters student Ruchin Khadka. Alexander Gunkler, an exchange scholar from the Technical University of Braunschweig in Germany, is also on the team. This team is sponsored by Teton Prestress Concrete in Idaho Falls. Team Forterra includes ISU civil and environmental engineering undergraduate students Ryan Golding and Blake Kleffner, and David Lucyga, an exchange scholar from the Technical University of Braunschweig in Germany. This team is sponsored by Forterra Structural Precast in Salt Lake City and Caldwell. The faculty advisor for both teams is Mustafa Mashal, ISU assistant professor of civil and environmental engineering. The beams will be tested as simply supported and must carry at least 32,000 pounds, must not have a peak load of more than 40,000 pounds, and shall not crack under 20,000 pounds. Judging criteria include design accuracy, lowest cost and weight, largest measured deflection, most accurate prediction, report quality, practicality, innovation, and conformance with the code. Students will have to discuss the structural design and the concrete mixture proportions for the beams in their reports. Prizes will be awarded for best performance in the stated areas. According to PCI, the winning team at the national level will receive free travel, accommodations, and registration for the 2020 PCI Convention and National Bridge Conference in Fort Worth, Texas. Prizes will be awarded to the top 20 submissions. The value of the prize awarded is based on the entrys placement in the competition. Prizes may be offered for the best report and best video. We are glad to participate in the 2019 PCI Big Beam Competition. Last year was our first time competing nationally and we did well, Mashal said. This year we have two teams from ISU. We have two students from the Technical University of Braunschweig in Germany in our teams as well. The students have worked hard and are excited to see the testing results. PCI Big Beam Competition is very practical and challenging. It helps the students to understand what goes into design, construction and testing of a precast/prestressed concrete beam. Construction time, quality and cost are three important parameters to consider in structural design of civil infrastructure, Mashal said. The PCI Big Beam competition emphasizes on all three which is wonderful. We are thankful of our sponsors who have supported our civil engineering students for this competition. We look forward to the testing event and our future collaborations with the precast/prestressed concrete industry. The big five technology firms in the US Amazon, Apple, Facebook, Google and Microsoft spent about US$582 million lobbying the US Congress on various issues between 2005 and 2018, the VPN provider vpnMentor says, basing its claims on analysis of available data. It found that in 2018, privacy was the top issue for both Google and Facebook, with 61% of Facebook's lobbying efforts mentioning it and Google being even more, with 64% of its efforts being about privacy. Next to this, data security was high on Facebook's list of concerns with 43% of its submissions being on this subject. Google was more concerned with competition, focusing 47% of its submissions on this aspect. Overall, privacy was mentioned in submissions costing US$73.5 million from the five big tech firms in 2018, with Facebook accounting for US$13.8 million. The five companies were also greatly concerned about tax laws, with this being the top priority for Amazon, Apple and Microsoft, with 59%, 76% and 54% of their submissions respectively focused on such legislation. Tax was the second-most mentioned word in submissions from the five firms and was mentioned in submissions that cost US$66.4 million to lodge in 2018. Another preoccupation for Facebook was curbing data requests from the NSA, with 10% of the social media company's lobbying reports mentioning data surveillance. Facebook started lobbying about this issue in 2013, as did Microsoft; coincidentally, this is the year when whistleblower Edward Snowden leaked explosive reports about NSA surveillance to a number of big newspapers in different countries. Last year, Facebook mentioned "government surveillance" in lobbying reports that cost US$12.6 million while Microsoft (US$9.9 million) and Google (US$200,000) were next. Facebook was also concerned about data breach legislation, mentioning the words in 19% of its lobbying efforts. It began lobbying for laws relating to breaches in 2011 when reports worth US$800,000 mentioned the subject. By 2018, that figure had risen to US$12.6 million. The research found that Google was obsessed with competition law, with 47% of its submissions based around this. In 2018, reports from the five companies which cost US$68.6 million to produce mentioned competition and Google's share was US$28 million. Apple was the lone company to lobby for preserving "technical barriers to trade," vpnMentor found. The company spent US$8.3 million in 2018 lobbying on this subject. Ariel Hochstadt, co-founder of vpnMentor and a cyber security expert, said of the research: A lot of people tend to think that the way things are at the moment is just a natural progression of the Internet and that theres nothing to do about it. "But our report shows that this is just not true. Big tech companies such as Facebook and Google spend millions to convince us and lawmakers that its ok for them to use and exploit our data, or that this is just an inevitable conclusion of our online activity." Graphic: courtesy vpnMentor Microsoft and Google laid out their respective visions for the next generation of virtual assistants this week, with enhancements to Cortana and Assistant, respectively, designed to support workplace productivity. Though voice assistants have yet to arrive in force in the workplace, analysts see plenty of potential. By 2021, 25% of digital workers are expected to use a virtual assistant on a daily basis, according to analyst firm Garner, up from 2% who do so now. On Monday at its Build developer conference, Microsoft offered a glimpse of where Cortana is headed, with plans for the virtual assistant to support more fluid, back-and-forth conversations. A demo video during Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella's keynote presentation showed an office worker managing a calendar via Cortana on a mobile device. In the demo, Cortana answers numerous questions and carries out multiple actions during a long, continuous interaction with the user that lasted more than 30 turns. That included viewing upcoming plans, scheduling and rescheduling meetings, checking availability and booking rooms. The user is also able to to pull in relevant information such as local weather and traffic information, and send directions to an in-car virtual assistant. Although Cortana can already carry out many of these actions, they tend to be done separately. Dialogue does not flow in a natural way. In spite of all the progress [with virtual assistants] you have to remember that most of the conversations we have today are still very brittle. They are not multi-turn. The context from turn to turn gets lost, Nadella said during his keynote. Human language is complex, the context is subtle, he said. So how do [we] make sure that the natural language capabilities inside these personal assistants is capable of having that shared context across long dialogue, versus just a few turns? The ability to engage in more complex and dynamic interactions improves on current iterations of AI assistants by keeping track of context, said Nadella. That advances follows from Microsofts purchase last year of Semantic Machines, a conversational AI startup. Appealing to business users Once the technology is integrated into Microsoft products, users will be able to retrieve information from a variety of applications, with Cortana acting as the interface. We want it to be less cognitive load, less feeling like, I have to go to PowerPoint for this or Word for that, or Outlook for this and Teams for that, and more about personal preferences and intents, Andrew Shuman, Microsofts corporate vice president for Cortana, said in a blog post. Microsoft is confident of Cortanas future in the office. Although its available on 800 million Windows 10 devices, it has largely failed to capture consumer mindshare as much as rivals. There are now plans to connect Cortana with other AI assistants rather than compete head-on; Microsoft struck a partnership with Amazon to integrate Cortana with Alexa in 2017. Patrick Moorhead, founder and president of Moor Insights & Strategy, said Microsoft has been wise to focus its attention on office duties rather than chasing the consumer market. I believe the business focus is the right move as this is what the company can win here, he said. I would question the companys chances in consumer. Microsoft has many of the most popular mobile apps with Office 365 and I believe if businesses offer a super-tuned Cortana for their work, workers will use it. JP Gownder, vice president and principal analyst at Forrester, said the Cortana updates can help Microsoft convince workers to use its virtual assistant more regularly as an interface with its applications. I think the new Cortana functionality makes sense making calendaring smarter, for example, he said. The new Cortana almost feels like a feature of Office rather than a stand-alone virtual assistant, which isn't necessarily a bad thing, Gownder said. Integrating Cortana's intelligence and natural language capabilities into common business applications like Office would save employees time and drive productivity improvements. He noted Microsoft still needs to show it can deliver on the promise of more natural conversations showcased in the Cortana demo. Conversational intelligence is far too challenging for us to take their word for it. Google unveils smarter, faster Assistant Microsoft is not the only tech firm hoping to popularize virtual assistants in the workplace. Amazon has Alexa for Business as its beachhead into the enterprise, offering management tools to support deployments of thousands of Echo devices into offices and meeting rooms. Apple, whose strategy relies on sales of HomePod devices, has not shown a strong intention to target Siri at the workplace yet. It did, however, announce a partnership with Salesforce last year that will see the CRM vendor integrate Siri deeper into its mobile apps, which are often used by sales and marketing professionals. And Apples reputation for stringent protection of customer data could help allay privacy worries about deploying voice-activated assistants in the office. Meanwhile, Google Assistant, typically seen as the strongest competitor to Alexa in the consumer arena, has indicated plans to tailor its virtual assistant for business use. That lines up with plans, announced at Google Cloud Next last month, to link Assistant with calendars in G Suite, Googles business productivity app suite. At this weeks Google I/O developer conference, the company talked up the next generation of Google Assistant, which is faster and more personal. By running machine learning models locally on a user device, such as Googles Pixel smartphones (where it will appear later this year), the new Google Assistant should deliver results up to 10 times quicker than via Googles cloud servers. That means processing speech with close to zero latency, allowing transcriptions to occur in real time, for example. This has been made possible by advances in deep learning that enables the machine learning models required for speech recognition and language understanding to be condensed from 100GB to less than half a gigabyte, Google CEO Sundar Pichai said during his keynote presentation. It makes the assistant so fast that tapping to use your phone would seem slow. I think this is going to transform the future of the Assistant, Pichai said. That lets users quickly switch from different tasks, such as checking the weather, playing music, ordering taxis, setting timers, as well as opening, navigating and sharing data between apps instantly. The ability to run some or all of the data processing on devices is important for three reasons: faster response time; improved security and privacy as sensitive data doesnt leave the device; and less dependency on connectivity bandwidth, said Annette Jump, senior director analyst at Gartner. And in an office environment? "In the workplace, it can certainly help with storing sensitive data around passwords, voice authentication, etc., locally, she said. In the next few years, Google Assistant can also control [a] broader range of smart devices in the office, like lights, conference room devices, heating, smart screens/boards. A demo during the I/O keynote also showed how Google Assistant can draft and send emails using only voice commands, which requires the assistant to discern when a user is selecting a subject title, writing a greeting and moving to the next line of text. The company also offered updates to Googles Duplex technology, showcased at last years I/O, which can make restaurant reservations on behalf of a user. Duplex will soon be extended to the web, the company said Tuesday. Initial use cases include automated booking of online car rentals, with information including dates of the trip and even type of car and entered on behalf of the user, who can then confirm the details before finalizing. Those actions are carried out via Google Assistant. As virtual assistants become more commonplace, both in work and home environments, it's likely Google Assistant will become more entwined with work apps. Voice interactions are very natural to humans and as we start using more VPA speakers in our homes, we would find the desire to use voice as a way of interaction with devices in the workplace, too (like with touch interfaces), said Jump. ...I would expect Assistant to be integrated in more productivity apps and devices from Google and be used by both mainstream office workers, as well as front-line workers or remote workers using new type of devices, like smart glasses or VR-headsets. Mac versions of Microsoft's Edge browser leaked this week, as did the first Beta build for Windows 10. Microsoft has yet to officially launch any version of its reworked browser other than Canary and Dev for Windows 10, which went public a month ago. Frequent Windows leaker WalkingCat, also known by his Twitter account @h0x0d, tweeted the download links for the Canary and Dev builds of Edge on macOS on May 6. A day later, @ADeltaForce revealed the download location for the Windows 10's Beta. Like Google Chrome - also based on open-source Chromium technologies - Edge releases in multiple builds representing increasingly more polished and stable versions of the browser. Canary, the least reliable, is updated daily, while the Dev version refreshes weekly. Beta and Stable builds appear every six weeks. Edge has yet to reach Stable, and Microsoft has not disclosed a timetable for when the browser will. Edge is also slated to be available for Windows 7 and Windows 8.1 at some point. The Dev and Beta versions on Windows 10 identified themselves as 75.0.139.5 and 75.0.139.7, respectively, indicating that Microsoft is now working with Chromium's version 75. Google's Stable build upgraded to version 74 two weeks ago, and its Beta was promoted to 75 last Thursday (specifically version 75.0.3770.18). In Chrome's cadence, which Microsoft intends to replicate with Edge, a new Stable build normally appears about four to five weeks after the same version number has reached Beta. (Chrome 75 Stable is slated to debut June 4, four and a half weeks after its launch in Beta.) If Edge were on a standard schedule - it's not - and the Beta was given to Insider participants tomorrow, it would probably hit Stable on June 11. It won't; Microsoft hasn't said anything definitive about a launch date. His other big concern was a provision to let people grow up to five plants at home. That would make it difficult for police to differentiate between a legal grow for personal use and an illegal cartel growing for the black market, leading to more violent crime, Stelter said. Prosecutors said the woman reported the incident to police at the time, but chose not to pursue criminal charges. There has been additional police investigation since then, authorities say, which resulted in the charges. Adam Johnson's second novel, "The Orphan Master's Son," follows a young man's journey through the icy waters, dark tunnels and eerie spy chambers of the world's most mysterious dictatorship, North Korea. Johnson spoke with Michael Lev, the Tribune's associate managing editor for business, who covered North Korea for nearly a decade during his time as a foreign correspondent based in Asia. Home prices in the Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia MSA increased 5.26% in March year over year. When excluding distressed and foreclosed houses, prices rose 5.06%. In the Durham-Chapel Hill MSA, home prices rose 6.6% in March year over year. When excluding distressed and foreclosed houses, prices rose 6.59%. In the Raleigh-Cary MSA, home prices were up 4.66% in March year over year. When excluding distressed and foreclosed houses, prices rose 4.82%. The Winston-Salem Regional Association of Realtors said on April 19 that the average residential home sale price in the Winston-Salem metro area rose in both February and March. The totals are based on Triad Multiple Listing Service data, which reflects certain residential markets in Davidson, Davie, Forsyth, Stokes and Yadkin counties. The average sale price was $199,498 in March, up 2.3% from a year ago. There were 698 closed sales during the month, down from 710 in March 2018. For February, the average sale price was $188,145, up 7.4% from a year ago. There were 507 closed sales during the month, up from 503 in February 2018. The company provided brief updates five class-action or shareholder derivative lawsuits related to shareholder claims that annual reports for 2015 through 2017 contained false statements in violation of (SEC) regulations. The lawsuits were spurred in part by a media report in late 2018. The common denominator in the lawsuits is that 22nd Century made false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose: that its stock was prone to manipulation through paid stock promotions; that such conduct would subject 22nd Century to heightened regulatory scrutiny by the SEC; and 22nd Centurys public statements were materially false and misleading and/or lacked a reasonable basis at all relevant times. Several executives, including chief executive Henry Sicignano III and chief financial officer John Brodfuehrer, are included as individual defendants, as well as the board of directors. The company said because it has not been served some of the lawsuits, it has not filed a response to those complaints. We believe that the claims are frivolous, meritless and the company and (executives) have substantial legal and factual defenses to the claims, the company said. Manila (CNN Philippines Life) Shake Shack is finally opening its doors to the Filipino public on Friday, May 10. What used to be only a hot dog stand in New York is welcoming its 19th international outlet here in Manila. During the launch party filled with tunes by Mojofly and DJ Nix Damn P the signature dishes of the fast food chain were also served: the ShackBurger, the Crinkle Cut Fries, and the Shack-cago dog. But what sets the Manila branch apart are the food items that can only be exclusively found in the Philippines. Theres the Ube Shake, which is vanilla ice cream blended with ube, and the Calamansi Limeade, which is the restaurants take on the lemonade. There are also frozen custard ice cream options that are mixed with either quintessential Filipino flavors or iconic products of local bakeries. The Uuuube-by baby has ube cookies, crispy pinipig, and leche flan; the Shake Attack is comprised with the famous chocolate brownies from local restaurant Buckys as well as cacao chocolate from local brand Auro; and the Calamansi Pie Oh My that is blended with the calamansi pie from Wildflour Bakery. The crowd during the launch party enjoying an overflowing food from Shake Shack. Photo by JL JAVIER Rock band Mojofly entertained the guests during the launch party of Shake Shack. Photo by JL JAVIER Shake Shack will have its signature Shack Burger (made from all-natural 100% Angus beef), the Crinkle Cut Fries, and the Ube Shake that's exclusive in Manila. Photo by JL JAVIER Shake Shack culinary director Mark Rosati says in a statement: As we spent time exploring the unique and eclectic landscape that is Filipino cuisine, we were inspired by the flavors and artisans we met along the way and by the food that theyre passionate about. The food chain also highlights their Stand for Something Good advocacy. Our burgers and hot dogs use 100 percent all-natural beef, free of hormones and antibiotics, non-GMO potato buns, and custard is made from real sugar, no corn syrup, and milk from dairy farmers who pledge not to use artificial growth hormones, adds SSI Group President Anton Huang in a statement. The order counter at Shake Shack in Bonifacio Global City, their first branch in the Philippines. Photo by JL JAVIER The frozen custard ice cream options that are mixed with either quintessential Filipino flavors or iconic products of local bakeries. From left: The Calamansi Pie Oh My, the Uuuube-by baby, and the Shake Attack. Photo courtesy of SHAKE SHACK PHILIPPINES The menu of Shake Shack in the Philippines. What sets the Manila branch apart are the food items that can only be exclusively found in the Philippines. Theres the Ube Shake, which is vanilla ice cream blended with ube, and the Calamansi Limeade, which is the restaurants take on the lemonade. Photo by JL JAVIER The Stand for Something Good campaign also interlaces Shake Shack with all things Filipino through collaborations with local nonprofits Childrens Hour and Hope in A Bottle. Five percent of the sales from their baked Pie Oh My will go to Childrens Hour, which provides education, health, and development programs for Filipino children. 100 percent of the profits from Hope in A Bottle will go to building public school classrooms. For all pet lovers out there, Shake Shack is also working with Whole Pet Kitchen a deli and bakery in San Juan that creates dog treats to provide your pets with the ShackBurger dog biscuits. *** Shake Shack opens on May 10, 11 a.m. at Central Square in Bonifacio High Street at Bonifacio Global City along Fifth Ave. The first 100 guests in line during the opening will receive Shake Shack swag. Though department orders updated in 2016 prohibit searches to determine gender, Mulligan said it still happens. Whatever the root cause is, yes, I see people being groped in that way, even when they say they have an ID, she said. Ive heard of it happening when trans people said they had no ID, so police in some of these situations start asking questions about genitalia. When trans people refuse to answer those questions, they go in forcefully. GREENSBORO Buzzed Bull Creamery, a shop specializing in boozy ice cream and milkshakes, is opening this summer. A franchise for the area has been signed, but details on the shop's location are still in negotiation and will be announced once confirmed. Buzzed Bull is a Cincinnati-based brand that is expanding into North Carolina with a shop opening soon in Wilmington. The local franchisees are a group of family and friends who have roots in the Greensboro area. They plan to open additional locations in the Triad. Buzzed Bull Creamery specializes in more than 30 flavors of ice cream. Ice cream and shakes are made-to-order with a cream base and flavors that are flash frozen with liquid nitrogen. What sets this ice cream shop apart is that you can get a shot of booze infused into your milkshake or serving of ice cream. Ice cream flavors paired with spiced rum and honey bourbon are popular. For information, visit buzzedbullcreamery.com. Boozy milkshakes are not new to the Triad. Several burger restaurants offer spiked milkshakes including Burger Warfare and Bad Daddy's Burger Bar in Greensboro and Small Batch and Cin Cin in Winston-Salem. Follow on Twitter at Short_OrdersNR and on Facebook. As a Salem College faculty member for 56 years, I must say that your front-page coverage of my institutions recent financial difficulties was offensive, unfair, negative and completely lacking in context. The efforts of President Sandra Doran to confront a difficult crisis, common to most small liberal arts colleges, both co-ed and single-sex, throughout the nation, was ignored completely. This very heart of American higher education is enduring a difficult passage and it doesnt help to have yellow journalism piling on with sensational headlines. In the Spring of 1865 Salem College students faced defiantly the cavalry of the U.S. Army in Salem Square during the death throes of the Confederacy. Surely we will be able to endure and overcome this blip, although serious, in our storied history of offering the higher learning to young women from around the nation and the world. Salem is the oldest part of Winston-Salem and I am confident that the community at large as well as our alums and well-wishers everywhere will rally to our cause. Today Sunny to partly cloudy. Near record high temperatures. High near 70F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph. Tonight Partly cloudy skies. Low around 50F. Winds WSW at 5 to 10 mph. Tomorrow Some clouds in the morning will give way to mainly sunny skies for the afternoon. High 71F. Winds light and variable. VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / May 9, 2019 / Ximen Mining Corp. (TSX-V: XIM, "Ximen" or the "Company") announces that, further to its news releases of April 8, 2019 and May 2, 2019, it has entered into five new arm's length agreements to acquire an additional 10,919,461 common shares ("Target Shares") of 0995237 B.C. Ltd., a private B.C. company ("0995237"). In consideration for these 10,919,461 additional Target Shares the Company proposes to issue a total of 642,828 Ximen common shares at a deemed issue price of $0.70 per share. Together with previously announced agreements to acquire 0995237 common shares (please refer to the press releases dated April 8, 2019 and May 2, 2019), these additional agreements bring the total number of Target Shares proposed to be acquired by the Company to 43,261,811 Target Shares, or approximately 80 % of 0995237. The total number of Ximen common shares to be issued in exchange for the 43,261,811 Target Shares is 3,528,769 (or approximately 10.62% of the total issued and outstanding Ximen common shares), at an average issue price of $0.74 per share (the "Consideration Shares"). The principal asset of 0995237 is its option to acquire the Kenville Gold Mine, located west of Nelson, B.C. The acquisition of the Target Shares remains subject to TSX Venture Exchange acceptance. The Consideration Shares will be subject to a customary 4-month, plus one day, hold period running from the date on which they are issued. The acquisition the Target Shares is expected to complete by May 30, 2019. On behalf of the Board of Directors, "Christopher R. Anderson" Christopher R. Anderson, President, CEO and Director 604 488-3900 Investor Relations: Mr. William Sattlegger, 604-488-3900 This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Ximen Mining Corp. Ximen Mining Corp. owns 100 percent interest in all three of its precious metal projects. Ximen's two gold projects, The Gold Drop Project and Brett Gold Project are located in southern British Columbia. Ximen also owns the Treasure Mountain Silver project adjacent to the past producing Huldra Silver Mine. Ximen is a publicly listed company trading on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol XIM, in the USA under the symbol XXMMF, and in Frankfurt, Munich, and Berlin Stock Exchanges in Germany under the symbol 1XM and WKN with the number as A1W2EG. This press release contains certain 'forward-looking statements' within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation, including statements regarding the receipt of TSX Venture Exchange acceptance of the above-described proposed transaction. Although the Company believes that such statements are reasonable, it can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts; they are generally, but not always, identified by the words 'expects,' 'plans,' 'anticipates,' 'believes,' 'intends,' 'estimates,' 'projects,' 'aims,' 'potential,' 'goal,' 'objective,' 'prospective,' and similar expressions, or that events or conditions 'will,' 'would,' 'may,' 'can,' 'could' or 'should' occur, or are those statements, which, by their nature, refer to future events. The Company cautions that forward-looking statements are based on the beliefs, estimates and opinions of the Company's management on the date the statements are made and they involve a number of risks and uncertainties. Consequently, there can be no assurances that such statements will prove to be accurate and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Except to the extent required by applicable securities laws and the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange, the Company undertakes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements if management's beliefs, estimates or opinions, or other factors, should change. Factors that could cause future results to differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements include the possibility that the TSX Venture Exchange may not accept the proposed transaction in a timely manner, if at all. The reader is urged to refer to the Company's reports, publicly available through the Canadian Securities Administrators' System for Electronic Document Analysis and Retrieval (SEDAR) at www.sedar.com for a more complete discussion of such risk factors and their potential effects. This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities, nor shall there be any sale of securities in any state in the United States in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful. Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - May 9, 2019) - Defiance Silver Corp. (TSXV: DEF) ("Defiance") is pleased to announce that Chris Wright has joined Defiance as a Director and Executive Chairman of the Board. Mr. Wright adds significant depth to the board with over 28 years in the investment industry. He is currently the Founding Partner, President & Director of Windermere Capital (Canada) Inc, an investment firm and portfolio adviser to two private investment funds - the Navigator Fund and the Breakaway Strategic Resource Fund that are both significant shareholders of Defiance. Prior to Windermere, Mr. Wright held senior positions with RBC Dominion Securities and Solium Capital. Since 2002, he has worked with leading hedge funds and managers throughout North America to develop proprietary and customized investment solutions for institutional and high net worth investors. Mr. Wright is a Registered Portfolio Manager and a graduate of Bishop's University. Peter J. Hawley, Interim President & CEO of Defiance, stated, "On behalf of the Board, I would like to welcome Chris to the Defiance team. Chris brings significant financial market knowledge and financing depth to the board. His extensive experience and success in managing investment funds in the mining sector, fund-raising and deal structuring will be a tremendous benefit to Defiance shareholders as we advance both the San Acacio Silver deposit and Tepal Gold-Copper project in Mexico." Mr. Peter J. Hawley, P.Geo. Interim President & CEO, is a Qualified Person within the meaning of National Instrument 43-101 and has approved the technical information in this press release. About Defiance Silver Corp. Defiance Silver Corp. (TSXV: DEF) (OTC: DNCVF) (FSE: D4E) is a district scale resource exploration company advancing the San Acacio Deposit, located in the historic Zacatecas Silver District and the 100% owned Tepal Gold/Copper Project in Michoacan state, Mexico. Defiance is managed by a team of proven mine developers with a track record of exploring, advancing and developing several operating mines and advanced resource projects. Defiance's corporate mandate is to expand the San Acacio and Tepal projects to become premier Mexican silver and gold deposits. Please visit our YouTube channel for more information on our projects. On behalf of Defiance Silver Corp. "Peter J. Hawley" Interim President & CEO Chairman of the Board, Director For more information, please contact: Sunny Pannu - Corporate Development (604) 669 7315 or via email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. 2300 - 1177 West Hastings Street Vancouver, BC V6E 2K3 www.defiancesilver.com Tel: 604-669-7315 Email:This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. LONDON, May 09, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Horizonte Minerals Plc. (the Company) (AIM: HZM; TSX: HZM) is pleased to announce the detailed voting results for the election of its Board of Directors, which took place at the Companys Annual General Meeting held on 9 May 2019 (the Meeting). The nominees listed in the management information circular dated 28 March 2019 were elected as directors of the Company at the Meeting. Detailed results of the vote are set out below: Nominee Votes For % Against % David Hall 483,226,476 94.72 26,959,800 5.28 Jeremy Martin 510,186,276 100.0 - - Owen Bavinton 493,226,476 96.68 16,959,800 3.32 William Fisher 493,226,476 96.68 16,959,800 3.32 Allan Walker 483,226,476 94.72 26,959,800 5.28 Alexander Christopher 500,186,276 98.04 10,000,000 1.96 In addition all other resolutions proposed at its Annual General Meeting held earlier today were duly passed. For further information visit www.horizonteminerals.com or contact: Horizonte Minerals plc Jeremy Martin (CEO) +44 (0) 203 356 2901 Numis Securities Ltd (NOMAD & Joint Broker) John Prior Paul Gillam +44 (0) 207 260 1000 Shard Capital (Joint Broker) Damon Heath Erik Woolgar +44 (0) 207 186 9952 Tavistock (Financial PR) Gareth Tredway Annabel de Morgan +44 (0) 207 920 3150 About Horizonte Minerals: Horizonte Minerals plc is an AIM and TSX-listed nickel development company focused in Brazil. The Company is developing the Araguaia project, as the next major ferronickel mine in Brazil, and the Vermelho nickel-cobalt project, with the aim of being able to supply nickel and cobalt to the EV battery market. Both projects are 100% owned. CAUTIONARY STATEMENT REGARDING FORWARD LOOKING INFORMATION Except for statements of historical fact relating to the Company, certain information contained in this press release constitutes "forward-looking information" under Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking information includes, but is not limited to, the ability of the Company to complete the Acquisition as described herein, statements with respect to the potential of the Company's current or future property mineral projects; the success of exploration and mining activities; cost and timing of future exploration, production and development; the estimation of mineral resources and reserves and the ability of the Company to achieve its goals in respect of growing its mineral resources; the ability of the Company to complete the Placing as described herein, and the realization of mineral resource and reserve estimates. Generally, forward-looking information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "plans", "expects" or "does not expect", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", or "believes", or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will be taken", "occur" or "be achieved". Forward-looking information is based on the reasonable assumptions, estimates, analysis and opinions of management made in light of its experience and its perception of trends, current conditions and expected developments, as well as other factors that management believes to be relevant and reasonable in the circumstances at the date that such statements are made, and are inherently subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information, including but not limited to risks related to: the inability of the Company to complete the Acquisition as described herein, exploration and mining risks, competition from competitors with greater capital; the Company's lack of experience with respect to development-stage mining operations; fluctuations in metal prices; uninsured risks; environmental and other regulatory requirements; exploration, mining and other licences; the Company's future payment obligations; potential disputes with respect to the Company's title to, and the area of, its mining concessions; the Company's dependence on its ability to obtain sufficient financing in the future; the Company's dependence on its relationships with third parties; the Company's joint ventures; the potential of currency fluctuations and political or economic instability in countries in which the Company operates; currency exchange fluctuations; the Company's ability to manage its growth effectively; the trading market for the ordinary shares of the Company; uncertainty with respect to the Company's plans to continue to develop its operations and new projects; the Company's dependence on key personnel; possible conflicts of interest of directors and officers of the Company, the inability of the Company to complete the Placing on the terms as described herein, and various risks associated with the legal and regulatory framework within which the Company operates. Although management of the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. BISHOPSGATE, LONDON / ACCESSWIRE / May 9, 2019 / The Board of SolGold (LSE & TSX code: SOLG) is pleased to provide an update from the Company's regional exploration activities from its 100% owned Cisne Loja Project in southern Ecuador, held by wholly owned subsidiary Green Rock Resources S.A. Highlights Celen Prospect Copper, gold and silver mineralisation has been identified over an area 1.5km by 1km. Copper, gold and silver mineralisation is hosted in diorite and granodiorite units associated with fractures and magnetite veining generally trending northeast-southwest. Mineralised rock chip samples have been collected from 3 streams with significant rock chip results including: R03001218 5.28% Cu, 0.66 g/t Au, 91.4 g/t Ag R03001221 5.08% Cu, 1.10 g/t Au, 25.8 g/t Ag R03001204 4.92% Cu, 3.90 g/t Au, 55.7 g/t Ag R03001215 3.65% Cu, 0.02 g/t Au, 95.5 g/t Ag R03001214 3.43% Cu, 0.09 g/t Au, 73.8 g/t Ag Celen Prospect is located 7km south of the Cuenca Loma representing a mineralised gold and silver epithermal vein field. Previously announced rock chip results from Cuenca Loma prospect include 15.25 g/t Au, 23.6 g/t Ag References to figures and tables relate to the version visible in PDF format by clicking the link below: Commenting on the results, Jason Ward, SolGold's Exploration & Country Manager said: "The presence of a strong epithermal gold field outcropping at Cuenca Loma prospect over 1.5km x 2.5km2 located 7km north of the copper gold porphyry prospect at Celen, over 1.5 x 1km, underscores the prospectivity of the area. The copper gold zonation presents us with a predictable geological framework, and we are optimistic about the discovery of both gold and copper ore bodies at Cisne Loja." Introduction Ecuador is located on the copper-gold rich and under-explored northern section of the Andean Copper Belt. The well explored southern portion is renowned as the production base for nearly half of the world's copper (Figure 1). SolGold's strategy to become a tier 1 copper and gold producer through systematic exploration continues to yield exciting results. Follow up exploration has focussed on 11 priority projects identified across SolGold's 72 granted regional concessions. With 11 priority projects now recognised, ongoing exploration by SolGold technical teams is focussed on advancing these priority projects with a view to progress to drill testing as soon as possible. SolGold's high success rate has been achieved by operating multiple field teams comprising 42 Ecuadorean geologists in regional exploration, led by highly experienced national geologists and applying the exploration discovery and appraisal blueprint developed over the last 4 years at Alpala. Further Information Cisne 2C First pass mapping and sampling by Green Rock Resources S.A. field teams at the Cisne Loja Project has located outcrops with strong copper, gold and silver mineralisation in the Celen prospect located in the El Cisne 2C concession. Rock chip results have returned highly anomalous copper-gold-silver (Figure 2 & 3). The copper mineralization is developed within diorite and granodiorite units, mainly along fractures comprising malachite, azurite, chalcopyrite and neotocite (Figure 5 & 6), occasionally accompanied by traces of pyrite. Mineralisation is also hosted in magnetite veinlets with malachite, azurite, chalcopyrite and tenorite. Mineralisation has been identified over an area of 1.5km by 1km. Hector Stream R03001218 5.28% Cu, 0.66 g/t Au, 91.4 g/t Ag R03001221 5.08% Cu, 1.10 g/t Au, 25.8 g/t Ag R03001204 4.92% Cu, 3.90 g/t Au, 55.7 g/t Ag R03001206 2.06% Cu, 0.24 g/t Au, 28.7 g/t Ag R03001207 1.39% Cu, 0.15 g/t Au, 24.6 g/t Ag R03001217 1.33% Cu, 0.08 g/t Au, 27.6 g/t Ag El Tio Stream R03001215 3.65% Cu, 0.02 g/t Au, 95.5 g/t Ag R03001214 3.43% Cu, 0.09 g/t Au, 73.8 g/t Ag Mandarina Stream R03001211 1.63% Cu, 0.30 g/t Au, 39.8 g/t Ag R03001213 1.45% Cu, 0.02 g/t Au, 36.6 g/t Ag Figure 1: Location plan of the Cisne Loja Project in southern Ecuador. Figure 2: Interpreted geology of the Celen prospect area. Figure 3: Location of mineralised streams Figure 4: Cisne-Loja - Celen Prospect - Location of anomalous copper rock chip samples. Figure 5: Mineralised rock samples from the Celen Prospect Figure 6: Mineralised outcrops containing malachite Table 1: Significant chip results from the Celen prospect - Cisne-Loja Project (10000ppm = 1%) Market Abuse Regulation (MAR) Disclosure Certain information contained in this announcement would have been deemed inside information for the purposes of Article 7 of the Regulation (EU) No 596/2014 until the release of this announcement. Qualified Person: Information in this report relating to the exploration results is based on data reviewed by Mr Jason Ward ((CP) B.Sc. Geol.), the Chief Geologist of the Company. Mr Ward is a Fellow of the Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy, holds the designation FAusIMM (CP), and has in excess of 20 years' experience in mineral exploration and is a Qualified Person for the purposes of the relevant LSE and TSX Rules. Mr Ward consents to the inclusion of the information in the form and context in which it appears. By order of the Board Karl Schlobohm Company Secretary CONTACTS Nicholas Mather SolGold Plc (Chief Executive Officer) This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Tel: +61 (0) 7 3303 0665 +61 (0) 417 880 448 Karl Schlobohm SolGold Plc (Company Secretary) This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Tel: +61 (0) 7 3303 0661 Anna Legge SolGold Plc (Corporate Communications) This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Tel: +44 (0) 20 3823 2131 Gordon Poole / Nick Hennis Camarco (Financial PR / IR) This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Tel: +44 (0) 20 3757 4997 Andrew Chubb / Ingo Hofmaier Hannam & Partners (Joint Broker and Financial Advisor) This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Tel: +44 (0) 20 7907 8500 Ross Allister / David McKeown Peel Hunt (Joint Broker and Financial Advisor) This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Tel: +44 (0)20 7418 8900 James Kofman / Darren Wallace Cormark Securities Inc. (Financial Advisor) This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Tel: +1 416 943 6411 Follow us on twitter @SolGold_plc This information is provided by RNS, the news service of the London Stock Exchange. RNS is approved by the Financial Conduct Authority to act as a Primary Information Provider in the United Kingdom. Terms and conditions relating to the use and distribution of this information may apply. For further information, please contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or visit www.rns.com. VANCOUVER, British Columbia, May 09, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Velocity Minerals Ltd. (TSXV: VLC) (Velocity or the Company) announces that it has received conditional approval to graduate from Tier 2 to Tier 1 (the Tier Move) on the TSX Venture Exchange (the Exchange). Application to Graduate to Tier 1 In October 2018, the Company filed a Preliminary Economic Assessment on the Rozino Project, Tintyava Property, Bulgaria (the PEA) (see previous news release dated 29 October 2018). The Company confirms it has completed Phase I work on the Rozino project as recommended in the PEA, consisting of detailed soil geochemistry, trenching and approximately 1,000m of diamond drilling and costing approximately $0.75 million. The Company further confirms that Phase II drilling at Rozino has commenced (previous news release 28 March 2019). Phase II is expected to include a total of 12,000m to 14,000m of drilling, together with additional metallurgical and comminution studies as well as hydrogeological, geotechnical and environmental work. The budget for the Phase II exploration program is approximately $2.26 million as to the 70% interest that the Company is responsible for paying. The Company is well-financed and has adequate working capital on hand to complete Phase II as recommended by the PEA. On this basis the Company has made an application to the Exchange to graduate from Tier 2 to Tier 1, which Tier Move has been conditionally accepted by the Exchange. On Behalf of the Board of Directors Keith Henderson President & CEO For further information, please contact: Keith Henderson Phone: +1-604-484-1233 E-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Web: www.velocityminerals.com Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. He fully believed in community journalism and in covering the towns and especially the schools, and it was little surprise that he would go on to have this extraordinary second career as an English teacher at New Trier, because he was, I think, a lifelong academic himself, said retired Tribune transportation reporter Jon Hilkevitch, who worked with Lucadamo in the Tribunes Rosemont bureau in the early 1990s. DIDCOT, UK / ACCESSWIRE / May 9, 2019 / Altus Strategies Plc (AIM: ALS & TSX-V: ALTS), the Africa focused project and royalty generator, provides an update on it its 100% owned Agdz copper project ("Agdz" or the "Project") located in the Eastern Anti-Atlas of the Kingdom of Morocco. Highlights: Recent rock chip sampling results include 2.22 % Cu, 52 g/t Ag and 2.96 g/t Au 50 line kilometre Induced Polarisation geophysical survey ("IP survey") now planned IP survey to cover four key prospects: 2.0km Amzwaro prospect with grades including 4.82 % Cu, 189 g/t Ag and 1.91 g/t Au 2.8km Makarn prospect with grades including 8.00 % Cu, 448 g/t Ag and 0.73 g/t Au 0.15km Miniere Prospect with grades including 13.05 % Cu, 12 g/t Ag and 0.49 g/t Au 0.7km Daoud prospect with grades including 2.71 % Cu, 152 g/t Ag and 2.96 g/t Au Discovery of further copper mineralisation within rhyolite dome target Steven Poulton, Chief Executive of Altus, commented: "We are pleased to report on further encouraging copper and silver results from exploration at our Agdz project in the Eastern Anti-Atlas of Morocco. Our mapping and sampling programmes are confirming the presence of multiple mineralised and altered structures which are potentially analogous to those reported at the adjacent Bou Skour copper-silver mine located 14km northeast of Agdz which is operated by Managem. "The next phase of work at Agdz is planned to include a 50 line kilometre IP survey, across the priority prospects we have defined to date and including the recently mapped rhyolite dome target. This survey will be designed to delineate priority trench and drill targets. We look forward to updating shareholders on our progress at Agdz in due course." Technical presentations on Agdz and the Company's wider portfolio of projects in Morocco have been prepared and can be downloaded from the following links: Click Here The following figures have been prepared and relate to the disclosures in this announcement and are visible in the version of this announcement on the Company's website (www.altus-strategies.com) or in PDF format by following this link: Click Here The location of the Company's exploration projects in Morocco is shown in Figure 1. The Agdz project and key prospects are shown in Figure 2. Proposed IP survey lines across the priority targets are shown in Figure 3. A schematic cross section showing the geological model at Agdz is shown in Figure 4. A selection of photos from Agdz is shown in Figure 5. IP Geophysical Survey The planned IP survey will cover 50 line kilometres across the northern portion of the Agdz licence. The programme is designed to delineate potential sulphide copper and silver mineralisation. The targets are interpreted to be located within meters of the weathered surface and in intensely altered, brecciated and fractured zones. Mapping, trenching and ground magnetic surveys completed by the Company indicate that these zones form repeating sub-parallel packages which are individually up to 33m in width and strike in a broadly northeast orientation. Data generated by the IP survey will be applied to guide follow up trenching and drilling programmes. Amwaro Prospect Summary: Multiple NNE and NNW trending structures within a zone up to 2km in length and 200m wide, bound by extensional structures Historical results: Rock chip grades include 4.82 % Cu, 189 g/t Ag and 1.91 g/t Au Planned IP line kilometres: 11.5km Makarn Prospect Summary: A swarm of mineralised dykes, shears and veins which strike NNE over a distance of 2.8km Historical results: Rock chip grades include 8.00 % Cu and 448 g/t Ag Planned IP line kilometres: 30.5km Miniere Prospect Summary: A 150m long and 90m wide area of historical underground artisanal mining, exploiting multiple sub-parallel copper bearing zones of alteration. Historical results: Rock chip and spoil sample grades include 13.05 % Cu, 12.90 g/t Ag and 0.49 g/t Au Planned IP line kilometres: 3.5km Daoud Prospect Summary: A series of NNW striking quartz veins and pervasive silicification, mapped discontinuously over a 700m strike length transected by ENE striking chlorite rich alteration zones Historical results: Rock chip grades include 2.71 % Cu, 152 g/t Ag and 2.96 g/t Au Planned IP line kilometres: 4.5km Rhyolite Dome Target (Makarn Prospect) Recent mapping and sampling by Altus has confirmed the presence of an approximate 1km long and 0.5km wide northeast trending elongate rhyolite dome, located between the Amzwaro and Makarn Prospects. The dome is developed along a mapped northeast striking high angle fault and is likely related to the development of the Oued dar'a caldera which is located 4km to the northwest. The rhyolite dome target will be included in the planned IP survey. Previous trenching within highly weathered outcrop of the rhyolite dome intersected disseminated and vein-hosted copper oxide and copper sulphides (including chalcopyrite and bornite) associated with k-feldspar, iron, chlorite and minor silica alteration over 14.8m. Channel sampling at approximately 1m intervals returned a previously reported grade of 0.2% Cu over 14m. Figure 1. Location of the Company's exploration projects in Morocco Figure 2. The Agdz project and key prospects Figure 3. Proposed IP survey lines across the priority targets at Agdz Figure 4. Schematic cross section showing geological model at Agdz Figure 5. A selection of photos from Agdz The Company's wholly owned subsidiary, Aterian Resources Limited, has a 100 per cent interest in the 59.7km2 Agdz Project. The Project comprises four contiguous licence blocks in the Souss-Massa-Draa region of the Anti-Atlas mountains of central Morocco, approximately 350km south of the capital Rabat. The Project is approximately 14km southwest of the Bou Skour copper-silver mine and 80km southwest of the world-renowned Imiter silver mine, both operated by the Moroccan mining group Managem. Bou Skour has a reported (non-JORC and not reported in accordance with NI43-101) resource of 20Mt at 1.6% Cu and 20 g/t Ag. Agdz is located approximately 35km east of the city of Ouarzazate, where infrastructure and services are of a high standard, including a regional airport. The Project is located approximately 40km south east of the 'Noor 1' solar station, the world's largest concentrated solar power plant which has a planned output of 580 MW. Agdz is accessed via a paved road and a network of unpaved roads and vehicle tracks close to and within the licence. Agdz Project: Geological setting Agdz is located proximal to the Oued Dar'a Caldera, which formed within a brittle pull apart structure along a northeast trending regional fault zone in the eastern Anti-Atlas. The caldera is located within the highly prospective Neoproterozoic Sidi Flah-Bou Skour inlier of the Saghro Massif, which developed during Pan-African tectonic events. This massif is comprised of a lower tightly folded volcano-sedimentary sequence formed from arc-related metagreywacke and metavolcanics lithologies deposited approximately 650Ma. The lower complex was intruded by diorite, granodiorite and lesser gabbro and monzogranite between 615Ma and 575Ma. The upper complex is comprised predominantly of felsic metavolcaniclastics related to the development of several calderas emplaced typically between 575Ma and 540Ma and is intruded by granitic plutons. The upper complex is gently folded, sitting unconformably on the lower complex. Regionally, ore deposits are commonly associated with the upper complex and are typically spatially related to magmatic emplacement. The geology at Agdz comprises meta-sedimentary and meta-volcanic sequences. These belong to the upper complex and are cut by a series of sub-parallel NE to NW striking brittle faults and alteration zones, a number of which have been historically mined for copper. The alteration (comprising variably of chlorite, iron, silica, k-feldspar, actinolite, carbonate and barite) is generally located within brittle pull apart fault breccias and fracture zones, between (and oblique to) the mapped lineaments. Mapping, sampling and ground magnetic surveys undertaken by the Company to date have defined four priority prospects at Agdz namely, Makarn, Amzwaro, Miniere and Daoud. The Company has completed a series of 13 reconnaissance trenches at Agdz, totalling 576m in length and excavated to a depth of up to 1m. The trenches have revealed a number of NNE trending alteration zones in packages which are up to 33m wide, beneath a thin cover of soil and float material. Previously reported assay results from 5 of the 13 trenches have been received and reported to date and include 0.65 % Cu and 36.54 g/t Ag over 14.12m and 0.36 % Cu & 13.26 g/t Ag over 13.70m. Sampling Methodology and Analysis A total of 62 grab samples were collected as rock chips from outcrop or float from the programmes described in this release. Of the 62 samples: Copper: 10 of 62 samples assayed above 0.5 % Cu, ranging from less than 0.0003 % to 2.6 % Cu Silver: 11 of 62 samples assayed above 5 g/t Ag, ranging from less than 0.01 g/t to 52.7 g/t Ag Gold: 2 of 62 samples assayed above 0.5 g/t Au, ranging < 0.01 g/t to 2.96 g/t Au All sample preparation and assay was undertaken by ALS Global at their laboratories in Seville (Spain) and Loughrea (Ireland) respectively. Given the early stage nature of these programmes, no Quality Assurance and Quality Control ("QA-QC") samples have been sent for assay. Rock samples were crushed with 70% passing -2mm. The less than 2mm fraction was pulverized with 85% of the sample passing <75 microns. The fine fraction of each sample underwent a four-acid digestion with ICP-AES analysis for a suite of 48 elements. All samples were analysed for their Au content by 50g Fire Assay method. Samples with more than 1 g/t Au were resubmitted for Fire Assay with a gravimetric finish. Qualified Person The technical disclosure in this regulatory announcement has been read and approved by Steven Poulton, Chief Executive of Altus. A graduate of the University of Southampton in Geology (Hons), he also holds a Master's degree from the Camborne School of Mines (Exeter University) in Mining Geology. He is a Fellow of the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining and has over 20 years of experience in mineral exploration and is a Qualified Person under the AIM rules and National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure of Mineral Projects of the Canadian Securities Administrators. Market Abuse Regulation (MAR) Disclosure Certain information contained in this announcement would have been deemed inside information for the purposes of Article 7 of Regulation (EU) No 596/2014 until the release of this announcement. For further information you are invited to visit the Company's website www.altus-strategies.com or contact: Altus Strategies Plc Steven Poulton, Chief Executive Tel: +44 (0) 1235 511 767 E: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. SP Angel (Nominated Adviser) Richard Morrison / Soltan Tagiev Tel: +44 (0) 20 3470 0470 SP Angel (Broker) Richard Parlons / Jonathan Williams Tel: +44 (0) 20 3470 0471 Blytheweigh (Financial PR) Tim Blythe / Camilla Horsfall Tel: +44 (0) 20 7138 3204 About Altus Strategies Plc Altus is a London (AIM: ALS) and Toronto (TSX-V: ALTS) listed project and royalty generator in the mining sector with a focus on Africa. Our team creates value by making mineral discoveries across multiple licences. We enter joint ventures with respected groups and our partners earn interest in these discoveries by advancing them toward production. Project milestone payments we receive are reinvested to extend our portfolio, accelerating our growth. The portfolio model reduces risk as our interests are diversified by commodity and by country. The royalties generated from our portfolio of projects are designed to yield sustainable long term income. We engage constructively with all our stakeholders, working diligently to minimise our environmental impact and to promote positive economic and social outcomes in the communities where we operate. Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements Certain statements in this news release contain forward-looking information. These statements address future events and conditions and, as such, involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the statements. Such factors include without limitation the completion of planned expenditures, the ability to complete exploration programs on schedule and the success of exploration programs. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on the forward-looking information, which speak only as of the date of this news release. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor the Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Glossary of Terms The following is a glossary of technical terms: "Ag" means silver "Artisanal" means local people conducting mining, often with rudimentary equipment "Au" means gold "Cu" means copper "g/t" means grams per tonne "Grade(s)" means the quantity of ore or metal in a specified quantity of rock "m" means metres "Ma" means Mega-annum which is equal to one million years Indicated 134Mozs AgEq or 2.0Blbs ZnEq: 37.5Mozs Ag, 303Mlbs Pb, and 897Mlbs Zn; and Inferred 138Mozs AgEq or 2.0Blbs ZnEq: 45.7Mozs Ag, 253Mlbs Pb, and 796Mlbs Zn Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - May 9, 2019) - Southern Silver Exploration Corp. (TSXV: SSV) ("Southern") reports that Kirkham Geosystems Ltd. ("KGL") has completed an update of its independent Mineral Resource Estimate on the Cerro Las Minitas ("CLM") project in Durango State, Mexico, operated on a joint venture basis by Southern(40%) as operator and Electrum Global Holdings LP(60%). Resource Model Highlights Compared to the 2018 Mineral Resource estimate, the 2019 update, at a 175g/t AgEq cut-off, features: A nominal 0.97Mt increase in Indicated Mineral resources to 11.1Mt averaging 105g/t Ag, 0.1g/t Au, 0.16% Cu, 1.2% Pb and 3.7% Zn (375g/t AgEq; 8.2% ZnEq), containing: 37.5 million ounces of silver; 35 thousand ounces of gold; 40 million pounds of copper, 303 million pounds of lead; and 897 million pounds of zinc, This equates to 134 million ounces silver equivalent or 2.0 billion pounds zinc equivalent. A more significant 4.2Mt increase in Inferred Mineral resources to 12.8Mt averaging 111g/t Ag, 0.07g/t Au, 0.27% Cu, 0.9% Pb and 2.8% Zn (334g/t AgEq; 7.2% ZnEq) containing: 45.7 million ounces of silver; 31 thousand ounces of gold; 76 million pounds of copper, 253 million pounds of lead; and 796 million pounds of zinc. This equates to 138 million ounces silver equivalent or 2.0 billion pounds zinc equivalent. This new Mineral Resource Estimate illustrates the continuity of the mineralization and continued expansion of the mineral deposit in the Cerro Las Minitas project and updates the previously reported January 2018 estimate. The new Resource Estimate incorporates additional data from a very successful drilling program of 10,157 metres in 2018-19, updated metal recoveries and pricing, application of a more rigorous specific gravity ("SG") measurement protocol and further refinement of the resource wire frames. Table 1: Base-case Mineral Resource Estimate for CLM Project Utilizing a 175g/t AgEq cut-off value: Indicated Zone Tonnes Ag Cu Pb Zn Au AgEq ZnEq Ag TrOz Au TrOz Pb Zn Cu Lbs AgEq TrOz ZnEq Lbs (Kt) (g/t) (%) (%) (%) (g/t) (g/t) (%) (000's) (000's) (Mlbs) (Mlbs) (Mlbs) (000's) (Mlbs) Blind Zone 2,007 103 0.12 2.0 2.3 0.04 310 8.0 6,647 3 90 103 5.2 19,983 354 El Sol Zone 978 83 0.09 2.3 2.2 0.04 291 7.5 2,600 1 50 47 2.0 9,168 162 Las Victorias 870 141 0.17 2.0 2.8 0.62 385 10.0 3,949 17 39 53 3.2 10,775 191 Skarn Front 7,246 104 0.19 0.8 4.3 0.06 403 8.1 24,290 14 125 694 29.7 93,965 1,299 Total 11,102 105 0.16 1.2 3.7 0.10 375 8.2 37,485 35 303 897 40 133,891 2,006 Inferred Zone Tonnes Ag Cu Pb Zn Au AgEq ZnEq Ag TrOz Au TrOz Pb Zn Cu Lbs AgEq TrOz ZnEq Lbs (Kt) (g/t) (%) (%) (%) (g/t) (g/t) (%) (000's) (000's) (Mlbs) (Mlbs) (Mlbs) (000's) (Mlbs) Blind Zone 1,261 80 0.08 1.4 2.0 0.17 243 6.2 3,258 7 38 56 2 9,848 173 El Sol Zone 794 65 0.05 1.9 2.4 0.03 262 6.6 1,669 1 33 42 1 6,695 116 Las Victorias 216 180 0.06 2.7 2.1 0.90 416 11.0 1,252 6 13 10 0 2,892 53 Skarn Front 10,573 116 0.31 0.7 3.0 0.05 349 7.3 39,569 17 169 689 73 118,684 1,701 Total 12,844 111 0.27 0.9 2.8 0.07 334 7.2 45,749 31 253 796 76 138,119 2,043 Notes: The 175g/t AgEq cut-off value was calculated using average long-term prices of $16.6/oz. silver, $1,275/oz. gold, $2.75/lb. copper, $1.0/lb. lead and $1.25/lb. zinc. Metal recoveries for the Blind, El Sol and Las Victorias deposits of 91% silver, 92% lead, 82% zinc and 80% copper and for the Skarn Front deposit of 85% silver, 89% lead, 92% zinc and 84% copper were used to define the cut-off grades. The base case cut-off grade assumed $75/tonne operating, smelting and sustaining costs. All prices are stated in $USD. Table 2: Mineral Resource Cut-off Sensitivities for CLM Project Tonnes Ag Cu Pb Zn Au AgEq ZnEq Ag TrOz Au TrOz Pb Zn Cu Lbs AgEq TrOz ZnEq Lbs (Kt) (g/t) (%) (%) (%) (g/t) (g/t) (%) (000's) (000's) (Mlbs) (Mlbs) (Mlbs) (000's) (Mlbs) 150g/t AgEq Cut-off Indicated 13,078 97 0.15 1.2 3.3 0.10 343 7.4 40,600 41 338 954 43 144,182 2,121 Inferred 15,673 101 0.25 0.8 2.5 0.07 304 6.6 50,742 37 287 873 86 152,960 2,272 175g/t AgEq Cut-Off Indicated 11,102 105 0.16 1.2 3.7 0.10 375 8.2 37,485 35 303 897 40 133,891 2,007 Inferred 12,844 111 0.27 0.9 2.8 0.07 334 7.2 45,749 31 253 796 76 138,119 2,043 250g/t AgEq Cut-Off Indicated 7,457 126 0.19 1.4 4.6 0.11 457 9.9 30,255 27 233 750 31 109,520 1,622 Inferred 6,692 146 0.31 1.2 3.9 0.09 449 9.6 31,481 20 175 574 46 96,521 1,419 350g/t AgEq Cut-Off Indicated 4,656 147 0.22 1.6 5.7 0.14 556 11.9 22,005 21 167 590 23 83,194 1,221 Inferred 3,854 187 0.35 1.5 4.9 0.10 564 12.1 23,135 12 124 417 30 69,891 1,024 Notes: The current Resource Estimate was prepared by Garth Kirkham, P.Geo., of Kirkham Geosystems Ltd. All mineral resources have been estimated in accordance with Canadian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy and Petroleum ("CIM") definitions, as required under National Instrument 43-101 ("NI43-101"). Mineral resources were constrained using mainly geological constraints and approximate 10g/t AgEq grade domains. AgEq cut-off values were calculated using average long-term prices of $16.6/oz. silver, $1,275/oz. gold, $2.75/lb. copper, $1.0/lb. lead and $1.25/lb. zinc. Metal recoveries for the Blind, El Sol and Las Victorias deposits of 91% silver, 25% gold, 92% lead, 82% zinc and 80% copper and for the Skarn Front deposit of 85% silver, 18% gold, 89% lead, 92% zinc and 84% copper were used to define the cut-off grades. Base case cut-off grade assumed $75/tonne operating smelting and sustaining costs. All prices are stated in $USD. Silver Equivalents were calculated from the interpolated block values using relative recoveries and prices between the component metals and silver to determine a final AgEq value. The same methodology was used to calculate the ZnEq value. Mineral resources are not mineral reserves until they have demonstrated economic viability. Mineral resource estimates do not account for a resource's mineability, selectivity, mining loss, or dilution. All figures are rounded to reflect the relative accuracy of the estimate and therefore numbers may not appear to add precisely. Model Parameters Four separate mineral deposits were modelled in the resource update with the Blind, the El Sol and the Las Victorias deposits forming sets of sub-parallel, northwest-trending and steeply dipping mineralized zones which are traced for over 1300 metres strike and up to 600 metres depth. The fourth deposit known as the Skarn Front, forms beneath the Blind, El Sol and Las Victorias deposits and is localized on the outer edge of the skarn alteration zone surrounding the Central Monzonite Intrusion and has been drilled along an approximate 1100 metre strike length and to depths of up to 1000 metres. KGL suggests that an underground mining scenario is appropriate for the project at this stage and has recommended a 175g/t AgEq cut-off value for the base-case resource estimate. Also listed are grade-tonnage sensitivities at 150g/t, 175g/t, 250g/t, and 350g/t AgEq cut-off values (see Table 2 above) which demonstrate both a significant increase in contained precious and base-metals at lower cut-off values and good tonnage and grade retention at incrementally higher cut-off values. A NI 43-101 Technical Report will be posted on SEDAR within 45 days. Mineral Resources that are not Mineral Reserves do not have demonstrated economic viability. Inferred Resources are considered too speculative geologically to have economic considerations applied to them that would enable them to be classified as Mineral Reserves. There is no assurance that any part of the Inferred Resource will be converted to Measured or Indicated Mineral Resources or ultimately converted to a Mineral Reserve. 2018-19 Exploration Review: Drilling in the 2018-19 Exploration season, as reflected in the updated Mineral Resource estimate, successfully: filled grade gaps in the earlier block model and allowed the more effective projection of higher grade mineralization throughout the deposits; built continuity of several higher grade zones within the central part of the Skarn Front deposit establishing several high-grade lenses of mineralization within 400 metres of surface; established greater continuity between the Skarn Front deposit and footwall mineralization (lateral to and equivalent to the Skarn Front style mineralization) in the Las Victorias zone; extended and built continuity of higher-grade, shallow mineralization (<400 metres) in both the Las Victorias deposit and North Skarn zone; added 163Kt Indicated Resource and 216Kt Inferred Resource at grades >380g/t AgEq in the Las Victorias deposit; added 2.1Mt Indicated Resource and 2.7Mt Inferred Resource to the Skarn Front deposit at similar or higher average AgEq grade; provided better definition of three higher grade sub-zones within the El Sol deposit; and identified anomalous silver and pathfinder mineralization in the CLM West Epithermal 19,500 ha. claim group located approximately 10-15km to the southwest of the established mineral resources on the CLM property The Mineral Resources at Cerro Las Minitas have increased substantially since the initial resource estimate in 2016 with 133 drill holes for 59,000 metres, US$18.5M spent to date and with a discovery cost of: $0.07/oz AgEq; $0.005/lb ZnEq. The project continues to provide a strong high-grade resource growth projection. President, Lawrence Page Q.C. stated, "Since acquisition in September 2010, CLM continues to develop Mineral Resources with great potential to become a significant economic deposit. Exploration since 2018 has resulted in a 9.5% percent increase in Indicated Resources and a 48% percent increase in Inferred Resources on a tonnage basis. A modest expenditure in 2018 of $2 million in drilling and exploration costs at the area of the Cerro has added great value to the existing resource and we are confident that additional exploratory drilling during 2019-20 will continue adding great incremental value to the Project". "The property is not burdened with royalties which enhances the financial fundamentals of mining and processing. Aggregate acquisition and exploration costs of $18.5 million, equate to a "finding" cost of less than $0.07 per silver equivalent ounce with continued upside to add further resources." "Exploration of portions of our 19,500 hectares at CLM West has resulted in a "discovery hole" highlighted by a 3 metre intercept grading 168g/t Ag from a strongly oxidized and broken zone located in the upper part of drill hole 18CLMW-007." "Concurrently with the continued development of the resource, we continue to obtain independent assessments on metallurgy and mining parameters to de-risk the project and further increase value." 2019-20 Work Program Compilation and analysis of the 2018-19 results continues toward further drill targeting for the 2019-20 exploration program with Southern as the operator. The overall objective of the 2019-20 exploration program is to continue to increase the existing resource base and to identify and drill test new epithermal vein systems within the larger claim package. Mineral Resource Estimate Parameters The estimate was carried out using a block model constrained by 3D wireframes of the individual mineralized zones. The block model is comprised of an array of blocks measuring 10m x 2m x 10m, with grades for Ag, Au, Cu, Pb and Zn interpolated using Inverse Distance to the Third Power (ID3) weighting. Silver and zinc equivalent values were subsequently calculated from the interpolated block grades. The interpolation was carried out in three passes using progressively larger search radii to a maximum of 150m x 150m x 25m. For all passes, the interpolation was restricted to a minimum of 2 and a maximum of 12 composites, with a maximum of 4 composites from any one drill hole (i.e. a minimum of two drill holes required for +4 composites). Bulk densities were based on a total of 1,103 individual measurements taken by Southern field personnel. Density values ranged from 2.41 t/m 3 to 5.33 t/m 3 . Density values were interpolated on a block-by-block basis using an inverse distance to the second power. An average value of 2.85 t/m3 was assigned to blocks that were not interpolated. Silver composite values have been capped in order to remove the effects of potential overestimation due to statistical outliers. The threshold chosen was 700 g/t silver. In addition, outlier values for the co-product metals were capped at the threshold levels of 1.5 g/t gold, 1.4% copper, 5% lead and 19% zinc. The mineralized zones were initially defined by Southern personnel and subsequently validated and refined by KGL. The mineralized wire frames were defined using a combination of geological constraints, grade boundaries and no minimum thickness. Intervals that were not sampled were assigned a zero grade. For all zones, blocks are classified as Inferred if they are included within 100m of at least one drill hole intercept. Blocks within 50m of the nearest intercept, and estimated by at least two drill holes were classified as Indicated. However, an interpreted boundary is the final determination of indicated resources in order to remove outlier blocks and the "spotted dog" effect. About Southern Silver Exploration Corp. Southern Silver Exploration Corp. is a precious metal exploration and development company with a focus on the discovery of world-class mineral deposits in north-central Mexico and the southern USA. Our specific emphasis is the Cerro Las Minitas silver-lead-zinc project located in the heart of Mexico's Faja de Plata, which hosts multiple world-class mineral deposits such as Penasquito, San Martin, Naica, Los Gatos and Pitarrilla. We have assembled a team of highly experienced technical, operational and transactional professionals to support our exploration efforts in developing, along with our partner, Electrum Global Holdings LP, the Cerro Las Minitas project into a premier, high-grade, silver-lead-zinc mine. The Company engages in the acquisition, exploration and development either directly or through joint-venture relationships in mineral properties in major jurisdictions. Our property portfolio also includes the Oro porphyry copper-gold project located in southern New Mexico, USA. The Oro property consists of patented land, State leases and BLM located mineral claims which cover a highly prospective quartz-sericite-pyrite alteration zone, interpreted to overlie an unexposed porphyry center and distal sediment-hosted, oxide-gold target. Robert Macdonald, MSc., P.Geo., is a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 and he is responsible for the supervision of the exploration on the Cerro Las Minitas Project and for the preparation and review of the technical results in this disclosure. Garth Kirkham, P.Geo., and Principal of Kirkham Geosystems Limited is an Independent Qualified Person responsible for the preparation and disclosure of the Mineral Resource Estimate. On behalf of the Board of Directors "Lawrence Page" Lawrence Page, Q.C. President & Director, Southern Silver Exploration Corp. For further information, please visit Southern Silver's website at southernsilverexploration.com or contact us at 604.641.2759 or by email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. . Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. This news release may contain forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements address future events and conditions and therefore involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Actual results may differ materially from those currently anticipated in such statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward looking statements include the timing and receipt of government and regulatory approvals, and continued availability of capital and financing and general economic, market or business conditions. Southern Silver Exploration Corp. does not assume any obligation to update or revise its forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except to the extent required by applicable law. Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - May 9, 2019) - Cordoba Minerals Corp. (TSXV: CDB) (OTCQB: CDBMF) ("Cordoba" or the "Company") is today providing this update regarding its exploration activities at the Alacran copper-gold deposit, located within the 100%-owned San Matias copper-gold project in Colombia. Cordoba announces the suspension of diamond drilling operations at Alacran due to potential security concerns raised by Company personnel and contractors after receiving demands and threats. The security and safety of the Company's employees, contractors and the local communities is of the highest importance and the suspension of operations will continue until the satisfactory completion of an investigation by the authorities. The Company has had discussions with the National government, the local authorities and the Colombian military to resolve the issue in a timely manner. The National government and the local authorities have offered their continuing support to reinstate operations as soon as possible. The Company thanks the authorities for their assistance and the armed forces for their continuing presence pursuant to a formal military cooperation agreement to ensure the safety of the employees and contractors of the Company and the local communities. The Company will update the market when there is further material information. About Cordoba Minerals Cordoba Minerals Corp. is a mineral exploration company focused on the exploration and acquisition of copper and gold projects. Cordoba is currently exploring its 100%-owned San Matias Copper-Gold Project, which includes the advanced-stage Alacran Deposit, located in the Department of Cordoba, Colombia. Cordoba has also entered into a Joint Venture and Earn-In Agreement to explore the Perseverance porphyry copper project in Arizona, USA. For further information, please visit www.cordobaminerals.com. Information Contact Evan Young +1-416-862-5253 This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Forward-Looking Statements This news release includes "forward-looking statements" and "forward-looking information" within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation. All statements included in this news release, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements including, without limitation, that exploration activities will resume in a timely manner; and that discussions with government authorities will help to resolve the issues. Forward-looking statements include predictions, projections and forecasts and are often, but not always, identified by the use of words such as "anticipate", "believe", "plan", "estimate", "expect", "potential", "target", "budget" and "intend" and statements that an event or result "may", "will", "should", "could" or "might" occur or be achieved and other similar expressions and includes the negatives thereof. Forward-looking statements are based on a number of assumptions and estimates that, while considered reasonable by management based on the business and markets in which Cordoba operates, are inherently subject to significant operational, economic, and competitive uncertainties, risks and contingencies. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate and actual results, and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the Company's expectations include actual exploration results, interpretation of metallurgical characteristics of the mineralization, changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined, future metal prices, availability of capital and financing on acceptable terms, general economic, market or business conditions, uninsured risks, regulatory changes, delays or inability to receive required approvals, and other exploration or other risks detailed herein and from time to time in the filings made by the Company with securities regulators, including those described under the heading "Risks and Uncertainties" in the Company's most recently filed MD&A. The Company does not undertake to update or revise any forward-looking statements, except in accordance with applicable law. Readers are cautioned not to put undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. VANCOUVER, May 8, 2019 /CNW/ - Metallis Resources Inc. (TSX-V: MTS; OTCQB: MTLFF) (the "Company" or "Metallis") is pleased to provide an update on its Thunder North and other newly identified targets for magmatic Ni-Cu mineralization within its 100%-owned Kirkham Property in the prolific Eskay mining camp in northwest British Columbia. Metallis Resources Inc - Kirkham Property - Worldview-3 Image - Ni-Cu Followup Target Map 2018 Exploration Program Metallis completed a detailed high-resolution (83.3m line spacing) VTEM Survey, as well as state of the art WorldView-3 satellite imagery which resulted in the identification of follow up targets on the Kirkham Property (click here to view map). An extensive Neogene volcanic carapace covers part of the Thunder North target, but gabbroic rocks crop out under the volcanic center to the immediate south, and leucogabbros occur as inclusions in volcanic breccias. A series of conductive targets were identified in association with strong magnetic responses in 2018. Two drill holes of 195m and 191m depth tested coincident magnetic and electromagnetic anomalies at the edge of the volcanic center and encountered magnetite-rich volcanic rocks that explains the geophysical response. Metallis's technical team, led by Dr. Peter Lightfoot, generated a series of targets for follow-up based on the discovery of olivine gabbro outcrops in the footprint of intermediate to felsic intrusive rocks of the Texas Creek Series. Moreover, olivine gabbro boulders with 25-26 wt.% MgO have been identified in Harrymel Creek, and based on this, two areas with coincident magnetic and conductive responses have been identified for follow-up in 2019. This work indicates that olivine gabbros are more widely distributed along the western margin of Eskay Rift than previously thought. Highlights Petrographic thin section analysis confirmed the presence of olivine gabbronorite with 8.55% MgO which points to the potential to identify a small prospective intrusion at Thunder North (click here to view photomicrograph). A high-resolution VTEM Survey generated 25 coincident conductive and magnetic anomalies, outside of the footprint of the Neogene volcanic center. This highlights the potential to identify conductive sulfide mineralization in association with magnetic gabbroic rocks. Gabbroic boulder samples containing 25-26 wt % MgO from the Harrymel Creek were identified near to magnetic and electromagnetic anomalies in the Iliad and Terwilligen target areas. Field mapping in 2018 outlined extensive outcrops of the Hazelton Betty Creek unit at Thunder South and Terwilligen Creek. This is similar to the stratigraphic position of Garilbaldi Resources' Nickel Mountain Gabbro Complex. Thunder North and Thunder South collectively cover ~10km2 of the Kirkham Property and are early stage prospects, ideally located on the western margin of Eskay Rift system. Thunder North represents part of the Texas Creek suite "Lehto Pluton", a segment of the Eskay Rift that has seen no historic exploration for nickel sulfide mineralization. The proposed trans-tensional faults and associated taxitic gabbros hosted by Hazelton's Betty Creek unit are recognized as an important feature of nickel sulphide ore deposits in this district. Metallis is planning an aggressive property-wide field program focused on differentiated and taxitic olivine gabbros and coincident VTEM conductors within the Betty Creek unit of the Hazelton Group, leading to a complete evaluation of the nickel potential on the Kirkham Property. Metallis Chief Geologist, Dr. Razique commented "The pull-apart structural setting of the Eskay Rift and the presence of olivine gabbro in the Texas Creek Suite intrusions encourages further evaluation of the nickel sulfide potential of the Kirkham Property". Metallis President and CEO, Fiore Aliperti commented "We're extremely pleased with the progress the team is making in developing our nickel prospects. The work achieved by our geological team over the last twelve months highlights the size and intricacy of tasks involved in exploring for nickel in the Golden Triangle, an area historically known for gold, copper and silver discoveries. Thunder North has seen very limited exploration in the past which led the team to utilize a wide variety of technologies including satellite imagery, VTEM, detailed fieldwork, petrographic analysis along with drilling where appropriate, to gain the knowledge that we have today". Mr. Aliperti went on to add "With Dr. Lightfoot's guidance we're furthering our knowledge of the nickel potential on the Kirkham Property and are extremely eager to get on the Property this summer with all the new information & understanding gained from the results of last year's work as we continue to advance the nickel targets. We continue our responsible approach to managing exploration budgets & our share structure, fundamental oversights that our investors have become accustomed to". QAQC and Analytical Procedures Metallis Resources Inc. employed a rigorous QA/QC program to ensure best practices in sampling diamond drill core. A combination of 1-3 meter intervals of sawn HQ and NQ drill core were delivered to ALS Limited's facility in Terrace, BC, where the samples were crushed to 70% pass 2 millimeter fraction, and then a 250 gram split was pulverized to better than 85% passed 75-micros screen. The geochemical analyses were performed by ALS Limited in Vancouver using multi-element 4-Acid digest ICP-MS package (ME-MS61) including Gold with fire assay Au-ICP21 gravimetric finish. In addition to the internal QAQC program by ALS, Metallis inserted 10% lab certified standards, field blanks and duplicates into the overall sampling stream. ALS Limited is a global testing, inspection and certification business with facilities and laboratories in dozens of locations and is independent of the Company. Qualified Person Technical aspects of this news release have been reviewed and approved by David Dupre, P.Geo., designated as a qualified person under National Instrument 43-101. About the Kirkham Property The 106 sq. km Kirkham Property is located about 65 km north of Stewart, B.C., in the heart of the Golden Triangle's prolific Eskay Camp. The northern border of Kirkham is contiguous to Garibaldi Resources' E&L Nickel Mountain Project. The northeast corner of Kirkham is within 12 km of the Eskay Creek mine while the eastern border is within 15 20 km of Seabridge Gold's KSM deposits and Pretium Resources' Brucejack mine. About Metallis Metallis Resources Inc. is a Vancouver-based company focused on the exploration of gold, copper, nickel and silver at its 100%-owned Kirkham Property situated in northwest British Columbia's Golden Triangle. Metallis trades under the symbol MTS on the TSX Venture Exchange and currently has 32,986,079 shares issued and outstanding. On behalf of the Board of Directors: /s/ "Fiore Aliperti" Chief Executive Officer, President and Director CAUTION REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS This Press Release may contain statements which constitute 'forward-looking' statements, including statements regarding the plans, intentions, beliefs and current expectations of the Company, its directors, or its officers with respect to the future business activities and operating performance of the Company. The words "may", "would", "could", "will", "intend", "plan", "anticipate", "believe", "estimate", "expect" and similar expressions, as they relate to the Company, or its management, are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. Investors are cautioned that any such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future business activities or performance and involve risks and uncertainties, and that the Company's future business activities may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements as a result of various factors. Such risks, uncertainties and factors are described in the periodic filings with the Canadian securities regulatory authorities, including quarterly and annual Management's Discussion and Analysis, which may be viewed on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should assumptions underlying the forward-looking statements prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described herein as intended, planned, anticipated, believed, estimated or expected. Although the Company has attempted to identify important risks, uncertainties and factors which could cause actual results to differ materially, there may be others that cause results not to be as intended, planned, anticipated, believed, estimated or expected. The Company does not intend, and does not assume any obligation, to update these forward-looking statements. Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. The TSX-V Stock Exchange has neither approved nor disapproved the contents of this news release. The Corporation has acquired a block of 6.5 million shares of Unigold (TSXV: UGD), a gold exploration company, which operates in the Dominican Republic . . Unigold's main asset is the Neita concession, which hosts a deposit of over 2 million ounces of gold (inferred resource of 39.5 million tonnes at 1.59 g/t Au). The other major shareholders of Unigold are Osisko Gold Royalties Ltd. (14.7%) and Evanachan Limited (7.3%), a company owned by Robert R. McEwen . . As consideration, Monarch issued 3.25 million shares of its share capital, which will be escrowed for 24 months. MONTREAL, May 9, 2019 /CNW/ - MONARCH GOLD CORPORATION ("Monarch" or the "Corporation") (TSX: MQR) (OTCMKTS: MRQRF) (FRANKFURT: MR7) is pleased to announce that it has acquired from an investor a block of 6.5 million shares (the "Shares") of Unigold Inc. ("Unigold") (TSXV: UGD) at an agreed price of $0.115 per Share for a total amount evaluated at $747,500 payable by the issuance of 3.25 million shares of the Corporation at an agreed price of $0.23 per common share of the Corporation. The shares issued by Monarch will be escrowed for a 24-month period. The transaction did not take place on a stock exchange or market. Prior to the transaction, the Corporation did not own or control any Unigold Share. Immediately after the transaction, the Corporation owns or controls 6.5 million shares, which represent 14.23% of the issued and outstanding shares of Unigold. The Dominican Republic is known to be a mining-friendly jurisdiction. It hosts several mines, including Pueblo Viejo, a Barrick-Newmont Goldcorp joint venture with a resource of over 10 million ounces of gold and production of almost 600,000 ounces of gold per year. Over the past five years, Unigold has spent more than $20 million on exploration, including more than 50,000 metres of drilling that identified an inferred resource of over 2 million ounces of gold, as well as high-grade mineralized zones within the largest zones of disseminated mineralization. The NI 43-101 resource estimates prepared in 2013 and 2015 indicate that given the known extent of mineralization on the property, as demonstrated by the other exploration targets, the Neita concession has the potential to host further deposits or lenses of gold and multi-element (e.g., silver, copper) mineralization. There is a high probability that the resource can be increased, both in terms of quantity and quality (see 2013 NI 43-101 technical report and 2015 NI 43-101 technical report). Neita Inferred Mineral Resource Estimate 2013(1)/2015(2) 2013 Mineral Resource Estimate Deposit Tonnes (x 1,000) Au (g/t) Au oz (x 1,000) Ratio de decapage Open Pit Oxide (0.32 g/t cutoff) Extension Main Connector - 2,448 1,108 - 0.92 1.12 - 72 40 - 1.3 1.3 Subtotal 3,556 0.98 112 1.3 Sulphide (0.56 g/t cutoff) Extension Main Connector 24,223 5,003 980 1.59 1.16 1.08 1,241 186 34 7.6 1.3 1.3 Subtotal 30,206 1.50 1,461 6.4 Subtotal 33,762 1.45 1,573 5.8 Below Pit Sulphide (1.25 g/t cutoff) Extension Main Connector 4,977 704 50 2.42 2.21 2.49 387 50 4 Subtotal 5,731 2.39 441 TOTAL 2013 Estimate 39,493 1.59 2,014 2015 Mineral Resource Estimate Underground Sulphide 3.5 g/t cutoff 5,274 5.27 894 (Source: (1) NI 43-101 Technical report mineral resource estimate for the Candelones project, Neita concession, Dominican Republic, December 20, 2013, Micon International Limited; (2) NI 43-101 Technical report mineral resource estimate for the Candelones extension deposit, Candelones project, Neita concession, Dominican Republic, March 30, 2015, Micon International Limited) "This was an incredible opportunity for Monarch and a transaction that we could not pass up," said Jean-Marc Lacoste, President and Chief Executive Officer of Monarch. "Monarch has always been interested in acquiring undervalued assets with a view to developing their full value. With Unigold, we are acquiring a block of shares of a company with a resource of more than 2 million ounces of gold, at a fraction of the market price for such an asset, and with a strong shareholder base. In addition, this property has excellent high-grade exploration potential, as demonstrated by the 2015 resource estimate." "This transaction adds another major asset to our project portfolio, which includes our Wasamac flagship project, the Beaufor mine, our Croinor Gold, MacKenzie Break and Swanson advanced projects, our Camflo and Beacon mills, our shares in Chalice Gold Mines, Agnico Eagle Mines, Osisko Gold Royalties and Yamana Gold, and the joint venture with Probe Gold Mines. In the current gold market, we must be on the lookout for opportunities like Unigold to enhance the quality of our assets." Other than as indicated in the present press release, Monarch does not have any plans or future intentions regarding material changes of Unigold, including the changes listed in Item 5 of Form 62-103F1, which is available on SEDAR under the profile of Unigold. Under certain circumstances, including market conditions, Monarch may increase or decrease its beneficial ownership or control over Unigold's common shares or other securities through market transactions, private agreements or new issuances. A copy of the report filed under Regulation 62-104 as filed on SEDAR can be obtained under the Unigold SEDAR profile or by contacting Jean-Marc Lacoste at 1-888-994-4465. The technical and scientific content of this press release has been reviewed and approved by Marc-Andre Lavergne, P.Eng., the Corporation's qualified person under National Instrument 43-101. ABOUT MONARCH GOLD CORPORATION Monarch Gold Corporation (TSX: MQR) is an emerging gold mining company focused on pursuing growth through its large portfolio of high-quality projects in the Abitibi mining camp in Quebec, Canada. The Corporation currently owns close to 300 km of gold properties (see map), including the Wasamac deposit (measured and indicated resource of 2.6 million ounces of gold), the Beaufor Mine, the Croinor Gold (see video), McKenzie Break and Swanson advanced projects and the Camflo and Beacon mills, as well as other promising exploration projects. It also offers custom milling services out of its 1,600 tonne-per-day Camflo mill. Forward-Looking Statements The forward-looking statements in this press release involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause Monarch's actual results, performance and achievements to be materially different from the results, performance or achievements expressed or implied therein. Neither TSX nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release. We keep telling tourists that Seychelles is Paradise on Earth, but is it paradise for Seychellois? was the question asked in March 2016 by a new opposition party in the Seychelles proposing the creation of a truth, reconciliation and peace commission. The question posed soon began to be answered. On May 9 five Seychellois and two foreigners are expected to be inaugurated in Victoria, capital of this 115-island archipelago, as commissioners of a new Truth, Reconciliation and National Unity Commission approved by parliament last year. Everything changed after the victory of the opposition coalition in the September 2016 parliamentary elections, which was the first political change of power in the Seychelles in 40 years. A parliamentary commission was then set up which recommended, in June 2018, the creation of a truth commission. On September 6, 2018, President Danny Faure signed the law creating the Truth, Reconciliation and National Unity Commission. It is responsible for receiving complaints and investigating human rights violations committed during the period of one-party rule. Systematic torture and political repression The Seychelles had been independent for only a year when on June 5, 1977 prime minister France-Albert Rene seized power in a coup. It was still the era of one-party states and socialist experiments. In 1978, the le Seychelles Peoples Progressive Front quickly became the only authorized political organization. An authoritarian regime established itself, not without opposition. In 1981, the famous South Africa-based mercenary Mike Hoare tried to overthrow president Rene. The failed operation led to a wave of repression against the opposition. In November 1985, leading opposition figure Gerard Hoarau, in exile in London, was assassinated on his doorstep. The case was never cleared up but the opposition was convinced it bore the hallmark of the regime. According to Bruce Baker, former director of the African studies centre at the University of Coventry in the UK, Under Rene systematic torture and other human rights abuses were widespread and opposition was repressed. Rene himself has openly admitted to bugging opposition figures at home and abroad and it is likely that his agents carried out the murder of opposition leader Gerard Hoareau. Upon leaving secondary school, everyone was forced to join the National Youth Service, where political indoctrination, paramilitary training, and cronyism mixed, feeding nepotism, corruption and impunity, wrote Baker in the Journal of Contemporary African Studies. Freedom of the press, of course, suffered the same fate. Tourism, on the other hand, flourished, and economic development followed. The Seychelles became one of the most prosperous states in Africa. At the beginning of this century, the country had the highest literacy rate, the lowest infant mortality rate and the highest life expectancy on the continent. Three years to heal the divisions At the end of 1991, the wave of post-Cold War democratization and pressure from Western donors forced Rene to establish a multi-party system. However, he managed to remain in power in a facade of democracy until 2004 when, at the age of 69, he announced his retirement while retaining control of the party. The countrys presidency subsequently remained in the hands of the former single party. The work of the Truth Commission aims to establish the truth about the abuses of this one-party era, then to make an official and public report on the violations, help bridge the divisions they have caused, appease and rehabilitate victims as well as those responsible for the crimes, set reparations and decide whether or not to grant amnesty to those responsible. Finally, the Commission aims to unite the Seychelles around a common agenda and avoid the repetition of these human rights violations. It is planned to work for three years. The Commission has seven members, including two foreigners who are non-resident in Seychelles. Its hearings will be public and filmed. It may demand the appearance of any person and may also require the testimony of one spouse against the other. It has the same powers as the Supreme Court of the country. The evidence collected may not be used in proceedings before civil or criminal courts (except for false testimony). Amnesty requests need a prior written request from perpetrators, who must offer a direct apology to their victims. Any person may ask to be heard by the Commission, or file a complaint within six months of the start of the Commissions mandate. This mandate is to start three months after the Commissioners oath of office, i.e. in early August 2019. The truth without France-Albert Rene In June 2018, the parliamentary committee that had paved the way for the establishment of the truth commission submitted its report to the President of the Republic. In fifteen months of work, the parliamentary group where the countrys two main political groups were represented had received 315 complaints from victims. Compared to the thousands of statements made to other truth commissions around the world, this may seem paltry. But it is to misunderstand the island reality. As the Vice-President of the country then stated, both parties agreed that a small number of the population is affected by past wrongdoings, but this is felt by everyone in the country since Seychelles is small. Lost in the middle of the Indian Ocean, the Seychelles archipelago is located 1500 kilometres off the African coast, northeast of Madagascar. Its name comes from a former financial controller under King Louis XV of France, when the French took possession of these islands in the mid-18th century, before they became a British colony after the fall of Napoleon. Today, the archipelago has about 100,000 inhabitants. But at the time of the coup detat in 1977, there were only 60,000. The complaints filed with the parliamentary committee were classified into several categories. There are arrests, illegal detentions, disappearances and murders, but also unfair dismissals, loss of land, trauma and persecution. 16% of the complainants were seeking to recover their property, 15% were seeking truth and justice, 10% were seeking an apology and 58% were seeking financial compensation. However, there will be a major absentee before the Commission: France-Albert Rene. The man who embodied the Seychelles and whose authority hovered over them for more than four decades died on 27 February last, at the age of 83. The work of truth on his rule will therefore be done without him. So it was Vrdolyak who took over the meeting. Afterward, Washington claimed that anything the council did after he banged his gavel was illegal, but by then Vrdolyak had given council committee chairmanships to his and Burkes supporters. Traditionally, Chicago mayors have kept a tight grip on those appointments, much as medieval kings would bestow duchies on their loyalists. Yet is not also Attorney General William Barr an honorable man? Which is why it is so upsetting that these Democratic senators honorable men, which is why I am referring to them with this slightly pejorative adjective want to accuse him of perjury! Nay, more than that: They would say he did not accurately portray the conclusions of this report. In the past, we have backed the idea of a third airport for the Chicago region, as long as its built through private investment. We have also expressed our frustration with politicians foot-dragging that has kept the projects pace at a crawl. In the meantime, the airlines have gone all-in with the massive $8.5 billion expansion of OHare International Airport, which will boost parking spaces for planes by 25 percent, modernize three terminals and replace Terminal 2 with a new Global Terminal. Not to mention the investment in modern runways. Emanuel praises his embrace of police reform and notes a drop in homicides since 2016; theyre down 27 percent. While he writes that its too soon to draw a straight line from Chicagos police reform efforts to the progress in crime reduction, he goes on to do just that. He writes that he worked with Attorney General Lisa Madigan on a federal consent decree, which outlined deep and detailed changes needed in the Chicago Police Department. He says Chicago was proactive in equipping officers with body cameras, empowering sergeants and mandating training in de-escalation techniques. Those efforts have prompted results which are promising, he writes. One of their latest malevolent innovations: the one ring scam, in which a call stops after a single ring, leaving a tantalizing mystery in the air. The calls are often repeated and come in the middle of the night, attempting to prompt worried recipients to call back to figure out who needs to reach them so urgently. Woe to the trusting person who rings back, though; that call will result in toll charges that profit the scammer. CRESCENT, Ore.-- Emergency dispatch got a call around 2:30 Thursday morning. Rex Jones told dispatchers he shot Russell Gilbert and Gilbert wasn't breathing. The Klamath County Sheriff's Office and Oregon State Police responded. Gilbert was dead when they arrived at the property on Cox Road in Crescent. The Klamath County District Attorney's Office said Jones was arrested and booked on charges of murder and unlawful use of a weapon. Anyone with information is asked to call the Klamath County Sheriff's Office. MEDFORD, Ore. -- Teachers across Oregon are hoping to get the attention of lawmakers in Salem. Many schools cancelled or modified their school day Wednesday to accommodate for marches and rallies for education funding. The Medford School District made sure schools stayed open while also giving teachers and students the chance to take part in the "Day of Action." The district reached a compromise with the Medford Education Association to shift schools hours and let out earlier. Troy Pomeroy, President of the Medford Education Association, said funding for education is in a crisis. "We need to have that fixed for our kids," Pomeroy said. "Our kids deserve a full school-year, fully-funded educational programs, and we've had to cut back over the last three decades." The Student Success Act sits at the center of the issue. It's a $2 billion tax on Oregon sales. The businesses that would be taxed make up less than 10 percent of all businesses in the state. They would be taxed about half a percent. Former Medford student Brian Josephson came to speak at Wednesday's rally. He spoke of his fond memories of the Medford School District, while also looking back on large classroom sizes, cuts to programs and problems with school infrastructure. "Passing that Student Success Act is vital for our future success," Josephson said. Not everyone at Wednesday's rallies was in favor of the tax. Ruth Moncus is running for Medford School Board. When she hears Student Success Act, she thinks more added taxes on working families. "If they really care about parents and families why would they want to add more taxes to us? All that's going to do is raise the cost of living and make buying a home unaffordable," Moncus said. Moncus said she believes it's unproductive to hold the rallies and marches for education funding when there are other issues at hand like the Public Employees Retirement System. "Let's talk about PERS and then let's talk about wages. It's not yet clear where those funds are really going to go or be allocated," Moncus said. MEDFORD, Ore -- The Oregon Education Association says Oregon schools are in crisis after decades of lack of funding. Tens of thousands of teachers all across the state held rallies for education funding today. St the center of these rallies is the Student Success Act. The bill is currently being considered by the state legislature. Senator Herman E. Baertschiger Jr. joined NewsWatch 12 at 4 to discuss to walkout. Rempe said that although Nebraska soybeans and corn exports were off in 2017, Nebraska beef exports were up $112 million and pork exports were up $16 million over 2016 export amounts. The boost in beef and pork exports was good for Nebraska and needed to help offset overall declines in corn and soybean exports. Fortunately, Japan, which is far and away the largest buyer of Nebraska beef and the largest purchaser of Nebraska pork, was never targeted for tariffs. Our beef and pork producers escaped the negative market impacts of tariff threats in 2017, he said. To bring the value of agriculture trade closer to home for farmers and ranchers, Rempe said, the report identifies the value of agricultural trade on an individual commodity basis for 2017. Our 2016 analysis pegged the per-unit value of exports for soybeans at $6.27 per bushel, he said. The 2017 analysis shows the soybean value at $5.66 per-bushel; a 61-cent decline. On the other end of the spectrum, we calculated the per-unit value of trade to beef at $169.22 per head in 2016. In 2017, the analysis shows the value of trade to beef at $226.30 per head; an increase of $57.08. You can have the best models, data scientists and algorithms in the world, but without good data, its garbage in, garbage out, Kaegi said during a City Club speech in February as he pitched the legislation he began to talk about even before taking office in early December. The only real way to solve this problem is to require income-producing properties to submit their operating income and expense data at the start of the assessment process. I do have ideas that pop into my head for poems, he said. Ill jot them down. For me, its more about getting up every day and writing, whether it is for 10 minutes or two hours whatever the amount of time I have on that day to dedicate to writing. Its like anything else. If you want to be a good athlete, you have to go to the gym and practice every day. Its not like you just start hitting three-pointers. Coughlin understands that much of the material he creates will not make it into a poem. Eventually youre going to start creating something thats pretty darn good, he said. As an artist, Coughlin thinks about his writing at odd moments, often when he cant write them down. Its amazing how great my poems are in my mind, he said. But when I put words to them, theyre never quite as good as I want them to be. Coughlin connects his writing with the typical goals of most artists make a connection. LINCOLN Gov. Pete Ricketts, Nebraska Department of Agriculture Director Steve Wellman and Nebraska Department of Economic Development Director Dave Rippe have announced plans for a Sept. 3-10 trade mission to Hanoi, Vietnam, and Tokyo. Space is limited. People interested in participating should contact Angel Velitchkov, counsel for international trade, at angel.velitchkov@nebraska.gov. Vietnam is one of the fastest growing economies in the world, Ricketts said in a press release. With nearly 100 million people and a growing middle class, Vietnam represents a tremendous opportunity to increase our states agricultural exports. We also look forward to returning to Japan to grow trade with one of our longest-standing and most critical international partners. According to the U.S. Department of Agricultures Foreign Ag Services, the value of total U.S. ag exports to Vietnam grew by 57.8 percent, from approximately $2.5 billion in 2017 to $4 billion in 2018. In 2017, Nebraskas total agricultural exports to Vietnam were valued at $38.4 million. Beef exports alone increased from $5.4 million in 2017 to $12.3 million in 2018, a growth of 127 percent. TULSA, Okla. - Sutham Nateetong bowed toward a man waiting for the bus with his hand extended, offering an orange. Nateetong smiled as he shared the orange with the Tulsan. The Buddhist monk carried nothing more than a backpack during his 3,000-mile journey along Route 66. He walked through Tulsa on Wednesday, aiming to travel the old highway to its terminus in Chicago before heading to New York. PHOTO GALLERY: See photos of Nateetong's travels through Tulsa in a gallery at the end of this story When I walk, I meditate some more and send love and kindness to everybody, Nateetong said. Nateetong said he was walking for peace. I think if our world has peace, then everybody be happy, he said. Monks tend to have little, if any money, and rely on offerings. They dedicate themselves to simple and meditative lives. He started early Wednesday morning in west Tulsa, wrapped in an orange poncho. A straw hat he wore was wrapped in a plastic grocery bag. Light rain soaked his poncho and orange robes. Clearly, non-equalized school districts are on board since this policy would take a lot of heat off of them from constituents. But Tuesday, as debate began on LB289, we started to see hope for a compromise fade, as the larger, equalized school districts whipped votes to their side. Im not mentioning these groups to be nasty or political, Im simply pointing out that I did not see the same willingness to compromise and accept some sacrifice that virtually every other constituency has demonstrated. They dont want to accept that there must be a meaningful reduction in local property taxing authority if they want the state to take a greater financial role in funding school districts. Otherwise, we dont have property tax reform at all, just more money spent with no strings attached. Ive always felt the property tax issue has been used cynically by many groups as a convenient backdrop for pushing easier access to more tax dollars, rather than being seen as a genuine policy problem to be solved. If there is no room for compromise, then it would be hard to say my suspicion wasnt warranted. At the same time, state senators need to be aware that expanded work by the problem-solving courts will add to the workload of district court judges. The Legislatures Judiciary Committee heard testimony this session about this challenge. Lancaster District Court Judge Robert Otte, for example, said district court judges recognize the importance of the work, but the added caseload can be "demanding." This is one reason why the Legislature has approved LB309, to give Douglas County District Court, now at 16 judges, an additional judge in two years, given the heavy caseloads. Still, problem-solving courts clearly bring major benefits, especially as a tool to help alleviate some of the stress on Nebraskas prison system, now challenging Alabama as the nations most overcrowded. State Sen. John Stinner of Gering, chairman of the Appropriations Committee, correctly sums up this investment as "money well-spent on programs that have proven to be successful." Lawmakers are right to include this sound investment in the budget bill. Omaha World-Herald Financial markets gave a thumbs-down response to President Donald Trumps threat this week to impose higher tariffs in the trade war with China. Investors negative reaction signals theyre growing weary of uncertainty and would welcome a return to normalcy with global trade. It is anyones guess whether Trumps latest bluster will produce favorable long-term results, but for now, its a signal the presidents grievances against China wont be resolved until it learns to play by the rules and stop stealing technology, manipulating its currency and negotiating trade deals fairly and honestly. Trump, the U.S., and the global economic community certainly are united around the need to discipline China for its bad behavior, but here in farm country, it seems farmers and ranchers are being punished worse than China. Having lost access to some of their best trading partners, U.S. farmers certainly have become the pawns in the trade battle between the U.S. and China. Kenosha native James Pingitore spent several days and many sleepless nights preparing a speech about Antonio Pingitore, a grandfather he never met and a hero who will never be forgotten. The annual Kenosha Law Enforcement Memorial Service was held in front of an overflow crowd on Wednesday at the Kenosha Public Museum. The ceremony recognized the eight local law enforcement officers who died while on duty and included a special ceremony honoring the 100th anniversary of the death of Kenosha Police officer Antonio Pingitore. Pingitore died March 30, 1919, from a gunshot wound while confronting three men who had just robbed American Brass Co. A large contingent of local officers, high-ranking members of state law enforcement agencies, city officials, local residents and several members of the Pingitore family attended Wednesdays ceremony. James Pingitore, a retired American Motors Corp. and Chrysler employee, delivered an emotional speech about his grandfathers shortened life, details from the night of the robbery and how the incident forever changed their family. It was the first time the family publicly shared information about Antonio, an Italian immigrant who left behind his wife, Concetta, and their eight children. We all knew and loved our Concetta, James Pingitore said. Neither she or our parents or aunts or uncles ever talked much about what happened to our grandfather. It was a topic nobody wanted to talk about. It wasnt until the elderly grandchildren started doing research and dug into what was going on. Over the years, weve come to find out the story. Even though we never had the honor or privilege of meeting him face-to-face, he will always be a part of our lives and history. In his honor, the City Council approved the sub-naming of Second Avenue from 54th to 56th streets to Antonio Pingitore Way. The sign was unveiled at the ceremony and will soon be placed above Second Avenue, adjacent to the citys Public Safety Monument. Im overwhelmed, James Pingitore said. I was almost in tears when I went up there. Everyone (from the family) added a little something to the speech, and then we altered it, and then I went crazy for about three days trying to prepare it. It kind of took a lot out of me. Kenosha Police Chief Dan Miskinis said he read the speech before it was delivered and enjoyed learning more about Antonio Pingitore and his family. It put a very personal perspective on it, Miskinis said. Weve always had the law enforcement family perspective, but to hear the background and their side of it was very touching. It means that much more now. Honoring the fallen The ceremony shifted inside due to inclement weather. Law enforcement officers placed a single rose at the base of the Public Safety Monument for each of the eight officers killed in the line of duty. Those officers are Jacob Keul (1922), James C. Rieschl (1961), Blanco Aquino (1991) and Frank Fabiano Jr. (2007) of the Kenosha County Sheriffs Department and Antonio Pingitore (1919), Donald Murphy (1953), Gary W. Fraid (1973) and Dreux Beaulier (2004) of the Kenosha Police Department. Across the country, there were 158 law enforcement officers killed in the line of duty in 2018. Thirty-nine officers have been killed in 2019, including officer Matthew Rittner of the Milwaukee Police Department. Rittner was shot and killed while serving a search warrant at a residence in the 2900 block of South 12th Street in Milwaukee. Miskinis said officer safety will always be a main focus. Kenosha Police recently dedicated an initiative for mental health training as well. Its a very dangerous job, Miskinis said. Were trained to respond to it. The public itself has to take on some of that responsibility and not respond with violence. The ceremony included the singing of the national anthem by the Edward Bain School of Language and Arts choir and a rendition of Amazing Grace by the Kenosha Area Pipes & Drums Association. Love 2 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 1 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. Aaron Kennedy is an entrepreneur with national credentials. He was founder and chief executive officer for Noodles & Company, led Colorados successful branding and marketing campaign, managed product rollouts for major firms and continues to advise emerging companies through some of the nations leading accelerators. Now, perhaps somewhat to his surprise, UW-Madison graduate Kennedy is the Entrepreneur-in-Residence at UW-Green Bay. The late April announcement that Kennedy will join the effort to put Green Bay on the map for startups and scale-ups is the latest example of how the Upper Midwest is making a collective case for being a place where innovation is valued, talent is available and companies with the ideas can grow. Not that anyone is hanging Vacancy signs in tech hubs such as Californias Silicon Valley, Boston or North Carolinas Research Triangle, which continue to flourish, but there are reasons for investors, entrepreneurs and others to tap the rise in activity across the Upper Midwest. My name for the region that includes Chicago, Milwaukee, Madison and spurs north and west is the I-Q Corridor. The I stands for the interstate highways that bind them, but also innovation, intellectual property and investment. The Q suggests quality of workforce, research, education and life in general, the latter being a quality more familiar tech hubs are sometimes lacking. Green Bay is staking its spot on the I-Q Corridor thanks to an alliance that includes the Green Bay Packers, Microsoft, UW-Green Bay and others who have combined to create TitletownTech, which aims to bring world-class digital innovation and expertise to the region. It is headquartered in Titletown, the development west of Green Bays Lambeau Field, in a building that houses an innovation lab, venture studio, fund managers and others who can help to build young companies. Kennedys role over his four-year commitment to the UW-Green Bay is to work across academic and business lines to advise those companies, spot opportunities and to generally think big about what Green Bay can offer to investors and entrepreneurs. Unofficially, what he brings are connections and credibility, which can help draw attention to Green Bay and the larger region. That attention may come from people who wouldnt automatically stop to think about what the Upper Midwest offers. Those assets include reasonable deal valuations for angel and venture capitalists; well-trained talent through some of the nations best universities, colleges and technical schools; lower business costs overall; federal laboratories; a central location for distribution; and a strong work ethic. The I-Q Corridor also features a range of tech sectors in its portfolio, from software to life sciences, and from next-generation agriculture to advanced manufacturing. Investors have been increasingly drawn to that mix, based on recent deal data. States near Wisconsin have helped to launch large funds of funds to invest in the most promising deals and to attract even more outside dollars. The latest example is the $250-million Next Level Fund in Indiana. The growing effort to make the Upper Midwest an attractive alternative to the coasts is a theme of the upcoming Wisconsin Entrepreneurs Conference, to be held June 4-5 at Venue42 in the Milwaukee Brewing Co. Investors, entrepreneurs and tech leaders from across the region will gather to talk about the I-Q Corridors assets and its challenges. One glaring challenge is perception, which for some people is still trapped in Rustbelt imagery. Kennedy talked about Colorados once-fragmented brand when he spoke in November 2018 at a Tech Council conference in Madison, offering advice that could apply to Wisconsin and the Upper Midwest. Your brand cant be something you are not. A unified brand or message is powerful and memorable, Kennedy said at the time. About 500 miles separate Californias tech hubs in San Diego and San Francisco. The distance between Chicago and Minneapolis-St. Paul is a little more than 400 miles, much of it in Wisconsin. Linking Upper Midwest hubs along the I-Q Corridor around a common message could help each compete on a larger stage. Tom Still is president of the Wisconsin Technology Council. He can be reach at tstill@wisconsintechnologycouncil.com Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Be the first to know Get local news delivered to your inbox! Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Once I take office, my responsibility is to be the chief ambassador for our great city and make sure that people really know the true nature of whats happening in Chicago and not just screaming headlines that may be tweeted out by a certain someone, Lightfoot said at an evening news conference, making a clear reference to President Donald Trump. Conjuring up some date-night magic sometimes requires an extra hand maybe a white-gloved one pulling a rabbit out of a hat. Old-school lounges that served up magic tricks alongside their cocktails used to be relatively common in the city, but at some point along the way POOF! they disappeared. This swanky new Andersonville space, opened just last week by the group of local magicians by the same name who previously performed out of Uptown Underground, aims to restore the retro tradition to playful greatness with magic shows seven days a week. Tickets are available for purchase online. Get all dolled up before you sip a Sleight of Hand gin cocktail ($10) while enjoying a mainstage show in the places theater or a more intimate performance in the smaller lounge space. Magicians can even be spotted behind the art deco bar. Fair warning: Youll have to pull off one trick yourself as your evenings getting started. The speakeasy-style establishment is hidden behind a nondescript laundry. Medicare for all doesnt look like single payer in the rest of the world 288 Shares Share Recent polls show a majority of Americans support Medicare for all, but few seem to realize that no other system in the world operates like the current single payer proposals in Congress. Recently, I addressed the concept of single-payer health care, with Cubas system as an example. Today Im writing more about the ideas being discussed now in our country and how those compare to other nations that provide some type of universal care. There are four significant misconceptions about universal health care systems that should be initially addressed: 1. Most universal health care systems are not highly centralized, 2. Most universal coverage systems offer narrow benefit packages and incorporate cost-sharing for patients, 3. Private health insurance plays a major role in most developed countries with universal coverage, and 4. Countries with universal coverage have strict immigration policies to control health care expenditures. Bearing these differences in mind, the Commonwealth Fund recently compared universal health care systems found in other countries with the U.S. single-payer bills proposed in Congress. The country bearing the closest resemblance to the U.S. proposal, where decision-making is centralized, is France, where the government is responsible for 77 percent of total health expenditures. There is an out-of-pocket cost share for patients though it is relatively low, at 7 percent annually. The Netherlands, Singapore, and Taiwan are also highly centralized; however, they are smaller in scale with populations similar to that of individual U.S. states and their relative affluence allows them to sidestep long wait times. In reality, hybrid systems, where decision-making and financing are shared among federal, provincial/regional, or local governments, are the most cost-effective way to deliver universal health care coverage to a large population. In Australia, Denmark, the U.K. and Norway, policymaking and resource allocation decisions remain centralized, yet there is flexibility within a region to distribute funds in a more individualized manner best suited to local needs. At the other end of the spectrum are Canada, Germany, Sweden, and Switzerland, which provide decentralized universal health coverage, whereby decision-making and resource allocation is regulated at the regional or provincial level. In Canada, for example, each province receives per-capita block grants from the federal government. A block grant is a fixed amount of money the Canadian government allocates to a province in advance. Regions are usually held accountable through establishment of broad national guidelines to ensure fairness and service uniformity. A second misnomer is that universal coverage can be delivered on a large scale with no copays and no deductibles. All countries with universal coverage provide a publicly-funded, basic benefits package which includes physician and hospital services, as well as inpatient (in-hospital) pharmaceuticals. However, these systems include a cost-share that patients pay out-of-pocket in order to control costs in the long-run. Even those countries with the most comprehensive benefit plans such as Denmark, the U.K., and Germany mandate copayments for outpatient pharmaceuticals and a cost-share for inpatient hospital stays. Out-of-pocket costs for each country range from 15 percent of health expenditures for Canadians to 28 percent for those in Switzerland, and as high as 61 percent of health expenditures in Singapore. It is disingenuous for U.S. politicians to make empty promises by promoting a system of no co-pays and no deductibles. That does not exist anywhere else in the world. It is important to clarify that nearly every country with universal coverage in the developed world is actually a hybrid system, mixing private insurance with publicly covered benefits to ensure access to physicians and hospitals when necessary rather than being a true single payer. Canada, England, Germany, the Netherlands, Norway, Singapore, Sweden, and Taiwan all have supplementary private health insurance. France has complementary private health insurance and Australia and Denmark utilize both. 67 percent of Canadians purchase private insurance or have employer-based supplemental coverage for medications, mental health services, dental care, and other uncovered services. Finally, the majority of universal health-care systems in the developed world are considerably less universal when covering immigrants, who are mostly excluded. Some countries, like the U.K., insist new arrivals pay into their national system prior to obtaining health coverage. In Denmark, undocumented immigrants and visitors are covered through a voluntary, privately funded initiative by Danish doctors, the Danish Red Cross, and Danish Refugee Aid, who provide access to care. Newcomers to Canada face an uphill battle when applying for health care coverage. In a nutshell, emergency medical services for immigrants are free, but access to basic medical care services is restricted and if necessary, might require out-of-pocket payment for most treatments or insurance. Those wishing to settle in Canada must pass a thorough health screening prior to being eligible for universal health care coverage. If the government cannot confirm that cost of a pre-existing condition will not exceed $20,000 in annual expenditures, then health care coverage will be denied permanently. Winston Churchill once said, You can always count on the Americans to do the right thing after they have tried everything else. When it comes to health care reform, our politicians need to stop trying everything else, and just do the right thing the first time. It is not Medicare for all. Niran S. Al-Agba is a pediatrician who blogs at MommyDoc. This article originally appeared in the Kitsap Sun. Image credit: Shutterstock.com EUGENE, Ore. -- One man has been taken to a Eugene hospital after police said he was stabbed during an altercation with another man. Eugene police said they received multiple calls around 10:22 p.m. on Wednesday to report a fight between two men that ended with one stabbing the other in the 900 block of E. 29th Avenue. Officers arriving on scene found the victim and saw he had a stab wound. He was taken to the hospital. Police said they were then told the suspect was still in the area and located him on the roof of a home. According to police, the suspect cooperated, jumping down from the roof to be taken into custody. Police are not currently releasing the names of the victim or the suspect or if the two men knew each other. Police said there is no longer any threat to the community. This is an ongoing investigation. Stay with KEZI 9 News for updates. SALEM, Ore. -- Tens of thousands of teachers walked out on Wednesday, and supporters gathered at the Oregon Capitol to rally for education funding. Teachers and supporters also rallied together in Eugene and Springfield on the Day of Action. A bus left Sheldon High School this afternoon for the Capitol, and KEZI 9 News has a crew on scene. Eugene student Riley Haney told KEZI the lack of funding has a real impact on students. "We have multiple teachers that have to teach two grades 'cause there isn't enough staff," Haney said. "We don't get as much one-on-one support, and it's harder to grasp stuff." Stay with KEZI 9 News for more on the rallies. EUGENE, Ore. -- Eugene teachers that rallied at the Oregon capitol building in Salem reflected on their "day of action" when they returned home on Wednesday. KEZI 9 News spoke to those teachers, who said they were pleased with the thousands of educators that turned up in Salem on Wednesday. RELATED: TEACHERS MARCH ON OREGON CAPITOL FOR EDUCATION FUNDING Kay Fullerton, a teacher at Roosevelt Middle School, said when she and hundreds of other teachers were chanting inside the capitol building, it gave her chills. "To hear the amplification, it was a bit symbolic of the voice of so many people expressing their true passion," Fullerton said. When it was all over and Fullerton and others returned home, she said they did so with full hearts. "It just felt very powerful to be able to be in a very large group, having our voice heard where it really matters, which is in Salem," Fullerton said. While Fullerton said she and others know change may not happen immediately, they remain hopeful that Wednesday's message made an impact with lawmakers. "We honestly want to help improve education for kids," Fullerton said. "I would like them to hear it that way so that they will understand that what we're asking for is completely reasonable to our community and to the whole state of Oregon." Fullerton said now it's just a matter of hoping and waiting. She said she believes change will come even if it takes time. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 9) The Defense Press Corps (DPC), the group of journalists covering the Department of National Defense and the Armed Forces of the Philippines, slammed a military official who cried media bias. MGen. Antonio Parlade had issued on social media an open letter to the Editor which called out media outfits for not carrying the statements made by AFP Spokesperson BGen. Edgard Arevalo on Monday about the writ of amparo and habeas data filed by the National Union of People's Lawyers (NUPL) before the Supreme Court. The DPC argued the statement was not carried because it was, "to put it bluntly, a rehash of a written statement" Arevalo issued three days earlier and which was already reported in the media. The press corps said it is "outright unfair" to be accused of being biased and to be painted as colluding with Leftist organizations, including the Communist Party of the Philippines. "The DPC is an organization beholden to no one, not to the AFP, the Department of National Defense, the NUPL, the left and other state and non-state actors. It abides by the principle of fair and responsible journalism," it said. It then said Parlade was "shooting the messenger by falsely and randomly accusing DPC members of transgression" on its core values. The organization said Parlade's accusation of bias sends a "chilling message" to media practitioners to "parrot the military line or else, be discredited." Parlade, in his open letter Monday, argued that media practitioners have allowed the Philippine government to "be punched and bullied" without giving it an opportunity to air its side. "This is the sad state of our press who just recently celebrated World Press Day," Parlade earlier wrote. "This is the condition that the CPP has been exploiting for 32 years. This has allowed them to prosecute their National Democratic Revolution through their revolutionary dual tactics, or simply, duplicity. So now we have a biased media who doesnt want to expose the truth about these front organizations of the CPP." Management in the civil and public service should work with unions to ensure that the introduction of new technologies does not lead to job losses or poorer services, a Kilkenny conference has heard. Trade Union Forsa is currently holding its Civil Service Division conference in the Newpark Hotel, where the head of the division, Derek Mullen, said the union would not oppose the introduction of new technologies like artificial intelligence (AI). But technological advancement should not be at the cost of services or jobs, he said. Mr Mullen highlighted the positive experience of Revenue, where new forms of work organisation, supported by retraining, had increased the tax take and improved audit and fraud control, rather than cutting jobs. He told 400 delegates at the conference that Forsa would not give blanket support to the replacement of people-provided services with AI. We will support properly thought-out automation, controlled by workers and managers whose aim will be the continued enhancement and delivery of public services. Citizens do not want to talk to machines, he said. In a submission presented to the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform earlier this year, Forsa set out possible steps to ensure that new recruits are equipped to succeed in increasingly-automated work environments. It argued that older workers should be helped to adapt. The paper also advised against an expensive external consultant-led approach to technological development. The diminution of in-house IT services over the last two decades has seen the growth of a hugely costly consultant-led approach to designing new systems. This must change, it says. Youve just discovered that an employee has been stealing cash and you want every cent back. To recover that money, several options are available, but one could get you in big trouble. Well tell you what it is in a moment, but first meet Jill, who runs her own resume-writing service in a Northern California university town. Most of our clients are about to graduate and need a reasonably priced, attention-getting resume. Our $75 Builder package lets them complete a questionnaire, select a style, and walk out with a CD Rom or flash drive containing a one-page resume , cover and thank you letters, all that is needed for entry-level job applications, she explained. We are cash only. Seeing hundreds of dollars pass through her hands was too great a temptation for Taylor, who worked for us about two years and comes from a prominent family that can trace its roots to the founding of the university. CCTV security video shows Taylor repeatedly stuffing customers cash into her purse, and our data reveals no accounting entry for dozens of resumes which were created during a one-month time frame when she was the only person working. The loss comes to $3,500. She lives with her parents and I want to send her and them a letter, along with a CD rom video clip, giving an opportunity to repay the loss or I will go to the police. My boyfriend reads your column and felt it best to ask you before doing anything. Where common sense collides with the law We ran our readers question by Jane and Riley Parker, both California licensed private investigators. If Jill sends that letter, Jane warns, she opens herself up to being charged with blackmail, or extortion as it is sometimes called, which is a felony. Blackmail? you are probably thinking, Isnt blackmail like threatening to expose someones affair unless they pay up? Jill is just giving the girl or her family a chance to make it right before going to the police. Thats fair, its the right thing to do, and its just plain common sense, so how could it be blackmail? Yes, Riley agrees, You would think that it is common sense, but in this instance, common sense and the law collide. It is the first thing private investigators warn clients not to do when employee theft is discovered, adding, They are usually frustrated and find this to be counter-intuitive, until we read them the legal definition of blackmail. All states define blackmail and extortion just about the same way. In California, Penal Code section 518 makes it illegal to use force or threats to compel someone to give you money or other property. This includes threats to accuse the targeted person of a crime, to reveal a secret or to expose the person to embarrassment. Go to the police - Just dont threaten to unless paid So, Jill can go to the police and request that criminal charges are filed against Taylor, but she cannot use that as leverage to get the embezzler to cough up the $3,500. Think of this another way; you have the legal right to do something, but cant threaten to do it unless your money or property is returned. Lets say that Jill wants to give Taylor a chance to make things right. What could she or better yet, her lawyer state in such a letter to Taylor and not get in trouble? In our experience, weve found that an embezzling employee isnt going to be motivated by a phone call or letter from the employer. Instead, an attorneys letter advising of legal consequences should the money not be repaid bring this to a higher level in the crooks mind and is always worth the small expense, the Parkers strongly maintain. Be careful whom you tell A moment ago you just read the words, in a letter to Taylor. We did not say, To Taylor and her family. Why? Dennis, you do not want to be the victim of embezzlement and then sued by the former employee for defamation, but we have seen this happen far too often. What if the employer is wrong? What if there is a reasonable explanation for what looked like theft? Do not contact family, friends and neighbors. Unless instructed by your attorney, you should not discuss your investigation with other employees as you might not know their relationship. And whatever you do, dont offer special favors to co-workers if they will snitch on the suspected embezzler. We have seen employers who sought to crush a former employee instead be forced to pay fortunes to defend themselves. Some battles are not worth fighting, Jane and Riley Parker concluded. In my February 2017 column, I wrote that the stocks of emerging markets, which had been languishing for six years, present a special opportunity. It was a good call, but only temporarily. That year, the MSCI Emerging Markets index returned 37.3%, while Standard & Poors 500-stock index, the U.S. benchmark, returned 21.8%. In 2018, however, the stocks of emerging markets got clobbered, performing far worse than those in the U.S. or other developed nations. Over the past 10 years, MSCI Emerging Markets has returned just 8.0% annualized, compared with 15.2% for the S&P 500. The disparity is shocking. You cant just blame China, the largest emerging market by far. Although Chinas gross domestic product growth rate has slid from double digits as recently as 2011 to an estimated 6.3% for 2019, its stock market has outperformed emerging markets as a whole. Other developing economies in Asia have been sluggish; markets in Latin America and the Middle East have disappointed. But markets are about the future, not the past, and the future belongs to the aspiring, not to the mature. The forces of economic and demographic change are inexorable. In 1960, the U.S. represented 40% of global GDP; today, the proportion is 24% and falling. In 1960, Americans were 6% of the worlds population; today, theyre just 4.3%. I like Chinas prospects, but thats well explored in The Case for Investing in Chinese Stocks, so Ill focus on the two-thirds of assets in the MSCI EM that are not invested in Chinese shares. Many emerging countries, such as Brazil, have suffered from poor governance; others, such as Thailand, are threatened by new U.S. trade policies. But investors cant be frozen in the moment. Emerging markets have the long-term advantage of rising populations and, as education and technology improve, rising productivity. Downshifting developed markets. Since the end of the Great Recession, GDP in Western Europe and Japan has been growing at an annual rate between 1% and 1.5%, on average. The U.S. has been growing at about 2.2% (a bit more last year because of the tax cut). While those growth rates appear to be the new normal for developed markets, emerging-markets economies have the potential to grow at rates of 4% or more. And emerging-markets stocks have been beaten up so badly in recent years that, unlike those in the U.S., they offer significant value. A good example is Brazil, the fifth-largest country in the world by population, eighth by GDP. The exchange-traded fund iShares MSCI Brazil Capped (symbol EWZ, $40) has declined in five of the past eight years and has returned a measly 2.2% annualized for the past decade. Corruption and bad management have infested the government, and theres no guarantee that Brazils unconventional new president, Jair Bolsonaro, can pull the country out of the doldrums. But gloom has been built into share prices. The price-earnings ratio of its Brazil index, based on year-ahead projected earnings, is 11, compared with 17 for the U.S. The iShares ETF is a good way to invest, with an expense ratio of 0.59% and a dividend yield of 2.7%, but the fund is heavy on natural-resource firms that depend on commodity prices rather than on a pickup in Brazils own economy. Fortunately, unlike most other emerging markets, Brazil has an abundance of stocks listed on U.S. exchanges, trading as American depositary receipts. Banco Bradesco (BBD, $9), with a market cap of $67 billion, provides a way to benefit from a recovering economy. Shares have been volatile since Bolsonaros victory last fall, but they are still well priced. Shares of GOL Linhas Aereas Inteligentes (GOL, $12), a small passenger and cargo airline based in Sao Paulo, have surged lately but are still down by about two-thirds since 2010. Also intriguing are small-cap stocks BRF (BRFS, $7), a pork and poultry producer that sells internationally, and NII Holdings (NIHD, $2), which, although headquartered in Reston, Va., provides wireless services under the Nextel brand in Brazil. Although gold futures closed lower on the day, they did so with a higher low as well as a higher high when compared to Tuesdays price range. As of 3:20 PM EDT June futures are trading down $3.90 and currently fixed at $1281.70. What is extremely noteworthy in todays trading activity is the intraday high of $1292.80. This is just above the most recent high of $1290.60 which occurred on Friday, April 26th. This break above the former high creates a simple pattern that was coined by Steve Nison, the CMT market technician that was the first analyst in the United States to educate traders about Japanese candlesticks in the early 1990s. Although his forte is the use of candlesticks, this pattern he created is not a candlestick pattern. Scouting Party In Steve Nison's book Japanese Candle Charting Techniques, he coined the term "scouting party" for a particular chart pattern. According to his definition, these scouting parties are sent in by big traders, commercial accounts, or even locals to test the resolve of the opposing troops. For example, the bulls will try to move prices above resistance. According to Nison, in this type of battle the bulls will have to analyze the fortitude of the bears. If the bullish scouting party can set up camp in the bears' home field -- that is, above the resistance -- then a "beach head" is formed. Simply put a scouting party is any time that traders challenge either a current support or resistance level by taking prices above resistance or below support. However, the key to this pattern is the beachhead or the ability for traders to move current pricing above resistance or below support on a closing basis. This would be confirmation for the pattern. Todays intraday high at $1292.80 can certainly be identified as a scouting party. The key is whether or not gold prices will be able to continue to move to higher ground and effectively close above $1287-$1291. Most importantly these patterns are only a mathematical description of market action. It is the fundamental events currently at play that will move the market to higher or lower pricing. Of key concern is the current trade war between the United States and China and whether or not these two superpowers through their trade negotiations which will begin on Thursday can make some headway and bring this dispute to a satisfactory resolution. There are also geopolitical concerns over a recent missile test by North Korea. Add to that the tension when this week the United States sent a naval task force including the aircraft carrier Lincoln into the Persian Gulf, this in response to chatter indicating potential threats against the United States by Iran. For those who would like more information, use this link. Wishing you, as always, good trading, (Kitco News) - Hecla Mining Co. (NYSE: HL) Thursday reported a loss for the first quarter due to a disappointing performance at its Nevada mines and said it was suspending guidance for operations in the state while the company conducts a review. Hecla listed a quarterly adjusted net loss of $18.5 million, or 4 cents per share. The net loss was $25.7 million, or a nickel per share, a turnaround from a profit of $8.1 million, or 2 cents, in the same quarter of 2018. The company said the result was mainly due to losses from operations in Nevada of $13.8 million, which officials blamed on higher costs, as well as lower grades and recoveries than anticipated. Also, the profit was lower by $15.4 million at Casa Berardi as a result of 11,000 less gold ounces sold. Greens Creek exceeded expectations for both gold and silver production due to higher grades and recoveries, said Phillips S. Baker, Jr., president and chief executive officer. However, Casa Berardi and our Nevada operations both produced less cash flow than expected. Casa Berardis gold production was lower in part due to lower grades, which were expected, and also due to the lower mill throughput resulting from some temporary issues in the mill that have now been addressed, and we expect results to improve over the rest of the year. Operating metrics at the Nevada operations were unacceptable, Baker said. We are reviewing our Nevada operations to determine the best path forward and expect the results of this review in the second quarter, he continued. In the meantime, we are suspending our annual Nevada estimates for production and cost. We are maintaining our annual estimates for capital and exploration spending to maintain our liquidity and balance sheet. The company currently lists no gold-production guidance for 2019. Silver-output guidance is 9.9 million ounces. First-quarter silver production totaled 2.9 million ounces, up from 2.5 million in the same quarter a year earlier. A strike continues at the Lucky Friday mine in Idaho, although the limited output by salaried staff did rise from the year-ago period. Consolidated gold output edged up to 60,021 ounces from 57,808. The company also mines lead and zinc as a by-product. The average realized silver price in the first quarter fell 7% to $15.70 per ounce from $16.84 in the same quarter a year earlier. Realized gold, lead and zinc prices decreased 2%, 22%, and 13%, respectively. The board of directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.0025 per share payable around June 9 to stockholders of record as of May 24. May 9 (Reuters) - Acacia Mining Plc saw a surge in gold production in April thanks chiefly to a 54-percent rise in output from its disputed North Mara gold mine in Tanzania. Acacia, majority-owned by Barrick Gold, is embroiled in a long-running tax dispute with Tanzania and had cut output by a third after the government banned the export of mineral concentrates in 2017. The company in March introduced a revised mining plan for both the underground and open pit mines to address production problems at North Mara and said its successful implementation had put it on course to hit output targets of 500,000 ounces to 550,000 ounces in 2019. "I am pleased with the improved production levels now being achieved and remain confident of delivering against our full year production guidance," Interim Chief Executive Officer Peter Geleta said. "(...) We maintain our focus on what we can control." Acacia's shares rose 4.9 percent to 148.7 pence in early trade, taking the stock to the top of London's midcap index. Barrick's Chief Executive Mark Bristow on Wednesday said the company was seeking a solution to Acacia's stand-off with the Tanzania government, but it was "proving difficult". Bristow also said that "almost any solution is better than none" on the issue. Acacia, which has been negotiating through Barrick with the government, said a negotiated resolution with Tanzania remains its preferred outcome and said it was seeking clarification on comments made by Bristow on the dispute. "Acacia is seeking clarification from Barrick regarding Mr. Bristow's reported comments, not all of which are consistent with Acacia's own understanding of the position, as well as Barricks expectations for the conclusion of their direct discussions with the GoT (government of Tanzania)," it said in a statement. Gold production at North Mara in April was 33,941 ounces, 54 percent higher than the monthly average during the first-quarter, after the implementation of a revised mining plan, the firm said. The company also said gold production in April was 47,805 ounces, 37 percent higher than the monthly average during the first three months. (Reporting by Abinaya Vijayaraghavan in Bengaluru; editing by Gopakumar Warrier) A Burley man who is accused of murdering a 14-year-old girl in 1995 was back in the courtroom Wednesday afternoon. Gilberto Rodriguez was in court again Wednesday for the second half of his preliminary hearing that was initially held on April 26. Regina Krieger was found murdered in April 1995, her body found with stab wounds. Rodriguez's first preliminary hearing went about eight hours long, hearing testimonies from a few witnesses, including a pathologist, forensic dentist and others. One witness claimed they helped Rodriguez dump Regina's body in the Snake River. Another witness said that Rodriguez mentioned Regina in their conversations a few times, saying that it was a shame that he had to get rid of her." In a statement, Prosecuting Attorney Douglas Abenroth said that their testimonies were sufficient enough for the preliminary hearings. Rodriguez's defender Kieth Roark had said neither of the witnesses that said they knew Rodriguez were credible enough. For the witness that did take the stand, saying that he helped dump Regina's body, he said he did lie to police officers about the case before, even committing perjury during another case years ago. Judge Rick Bollar believes that the specific witnesses' testimony on April 26 "had so much to lose," whereas when that witness lied before, he "always had something to gain." After hearing statements from the defense and the state, Bollar ultimately decided to bind the case over to district court. Rodriguez's next hearing will be on Monday, May 20 at 2 p.m. Kendallville, IN (46755) Today Overcast. Morning high of 54F with temps falling to near 40. Winds NNW at 5 to 10 mph.. Tonight A few passing clouds, otherwise generally clear. Low 29F. Winds light and variable. Nipah virus: Age and breathing difficulties increase the risk of disease spread Nipah virus, a bat-borne paramyxovirus found throughout South and South East Asia, has been identified by WHO as an emerging infectious disease that may cause severe epidemics in the near future. Infections in humans result in severe respiratory and neurological disease with a high case fatality. With no available treatment or vaccine, the control of Nipah virus outbreaks must rely on a detailed understanding of factors that may facilitate inter-human transmission. In this context, researchers from the Institut Pasteur, CNRS, and Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, worked with colleagues at the International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Bangladesh (icddr,b), the Institute of Epidemiology Disease Control And Research (IEDCR), and the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (US CDC), studied the transmission dynamics of Nipah virus during the last 14 years of outbreak investigations in Bangladesh, the country that has reported the largest number of cases. The study showed in particular that adult cases with respiratory symptoms transmitted the virus to more individuals than other cases, and might therefore be targeted for interventions when the isolation of all suspected Nipah cases is not possible. This research paves the way to more efficient control measures. These results will be published in the scientific journal NEJM on May 9th, 2019. Nipah virus is a bat-borne paramyxovirus found throughout South and South East Asia. With a case fatality of >70% and no available treatment or vaccines, Nipah virus was identified by the World Health Organization as an emerging infectious disease that may cause major epidemics if the pathogen evolves to become more transmissible, leading the organization to prioritize it for research to prevent future health emergencies. In the absence of efficient treatments or vaccines, the only way to control Nipah virus outbreaks are through targeted interventions that limit opportunities of spread. However, designing such interventions is challenging in a context where transmission mechanisms remain poorly understood. Further insights on mechanisms of person-to-person transmission of Nipah virus are therefore urgently needed. To unravel the drivers of person-to-person transmission of Nipah virus, researchers from the Institut Pasteur, CNRS, icddr,b, IEDCR, US CDC and Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health studied the characteristics of all Nipah cases and over 2000 of their contacts identified during the last 14 years of outbreak investigations in Bangladesh, the country that has reported the largest number of cases. The study showed that, in particular, adult cases with respiratory symptoms transmitted the virus to more individuals than other cases, and therefore might be targeted for interventions when the isolation of all suspected Nipah cases is not possible. Moreover, contacts exposed to body fluids, including respiratory secretions, were more likely to get infected than others- consistent with an important role of respiratory secretions in person-to-person transmission of Nipah virus. The study further showed that spouses of cases and contacts with long exposure duration (often the caregivers) were more likely to get infected and should therefore be the focus of protective measures. Epidemic preparedness and the ability to stop transmission efficiently during an outbreak can only be achieved through a detailed understanding of the drivers of Nipah transmission. The detailed outbreak investigations carried out over the last decade by our colleagues from the icddr,b and IEDCR in Bangladesh have made it possible to answer key questions about the transmission of the virus between humans , states Simon Cauchemez, co-senior author of the study and head of the Mathematical Modelling of Infectious Diseases Unit at the Institut Pasteur. The risk of transmission of Nipah virus depends on the characteristics of the case, like the age or the type of symptoms. As explained by Birgit Nikolay, first author of the study, the results of this study help identify patients that should be targeted for interventions such as isolation measures if resources are insufficient to cover all suspected Nipah cases. This may help better control the spread of the virus during large outbreaks. Despite these important insights, gaps remain in the understanding of Nipah virus person-to-person transmission. Future research should focus on investigating how the virus propagates in the human body and refine criteria to identify likely Nipah spreaders. Further research is also planned to better understand when and where transmission is occurring in bats to help predict spillovers into human populations. ### Focus on Nipah Nipah virus is a paramyxovirus (genus Henipavirus). Fruit bats are the natural reservoir and spillover infections of humans mainly occur through ingestion of palm sap contaminated by the virus. Infections in humans result in severe respiratory and neurological disease with a high case fatality (>70%). Outbreaks have been mainly reported in Bangladesh, but few also occurred in Malaysia and India. Nipah virus has also been found in bats in other countries such as India, Thailand, Cambodia and Malaysia. This story has been published on: 2019-05-09. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 9) The minority bloc in the House of Representatives Thursday asked the Supreme Court to halt the construction of the China-funded Kaliwa Dam construction and to declare the million-dollar project unconstitutional. Makabayan, led by Bayan Muna Rep. and senatorial hopeful Neri Colmenares, urged the high court to issue a temporary restraining order (TRO) and/or preliminary injunction on the Preferential Buyers Credit Loan Agreement on the New Centennial Water SourceKaliwa Dam Project while their petition is pending. In the petition, the group cited the track record of Chinese contractors and their alleged fraudulent and substandard work. The Makabayan bloc also said the loan agreement for the project that is expected to supply 600 million liters of water per day to Metro Manila will have adverse consequences. "The loan agreement itself, along with the project it seeks to finance, while purported to be for the benefit of the water requirements of Metro Manila, will have negative impact on the Filipino peoples exercise and enjoyment of our countrys vital assets and sovereign rights," the petition read. Supreme Court Senior Associate Justice Antonio Carpio previously warned that the Kaliwa Dam project could end up using the countrys patrimonial assets as collateral just like the Chico River loan agreement with China. Of the $231.59-billion project, $211.215 billion will be loaned from China. The Kaliwa Dam contract provides for a two-percent annual interest for 20 years, although repayments will only be 13 years to make way for a seven-year grace period. The Philippines will also have to pay an additional $633.644 million within a month after the loan is availed, representing a management fee worth 0.3 percent of the loan amount, plus an annual commitment fee priced at 0.3 percent. Makabayan also asked the Supreme Court to order the administration to release documents in granting the civil works to the Chinese contractor. The Duterte administration hopes to begin building the China-funded Kaliwa Dam in July this year help secure water supply for Metro Manila. This is in the wake of a crisis that hit the metropolis and neighboring Rizal province in March. Under the project, a 27-kilometer tunnel will connect the water source from General Nakar-Infanta in Quezon province to a water treatment plant in Antipolo-Teresa in Rizal to supply water to Metro Manila and nearby areas. The council is a mix of ward aldermen, who represent different wards in the city, with two at-large aldermen who are elected citywide. The mayor is the head of the city government, as well as the one who presides over the council. But the mayor does not vote, except to break council ties. One of those Llamas singled out was former state Rep. Linda Chapa LaVia, who was in the audience. She served for years representing Aurora in the General Assembly, and once helped Llamas with a state scholarship to the University of Illinois, where he earned his bachelors degree. He has a masters degree from Northern Illinois University and his law degree from Chicago-Kent College of Law. But the Puerto Rican Cultural Council still needs to raise the rest of the $17,000 it needs to put on the parade as planned on July 28. The organization has started a fund-raising effort at gofundme.com. As of Thursday afternoon, the group had raised $1,105. Nicholas Goldberg joined the Los Angeles Times in 2002 as editor of the op-ed page and the Sunday Opinion section. He became deputy editor of the editorial pages in 2008 and a year later was named editor of the editorial pages. In 2020, he became an Op-Ed columnist and associate editor. He is a former reporter and editor at Newsday in New York, where he worked as Middle East bureau chief from 1995 to 1998. In that job, he covered the Israeli-Palestinian peace process; presidential elections in Iran; arms monitoring in Iraq; famine in Sudan; civil war in Algeria; war in Lebanon and the rise of Islamic fundamentalism in Saudi Arabia. Goldberg also covered the 1992 presidential campaign of Bill Clinton, and as statehouse bureau chief in New York, the administrations of Governors Mario Cuomo and George Pataki. He also served as Sunday business editor for Newsday, which he joined in 1983. Between 1999 and 2002, Goldberg worked conducting polls, focus groups and other strategic research for foundations, corporations and political candidates. During those years, he served as senior vice president of Benenson Strategy Group and as a director of Penn, Schoen and Berland Associates. Advertisement Goldbergs writing has been widely published including in the Los Angeles Times, New Republic, New York Times, Vanity Fair, The Nation, Sunday Times of London, Washington Monthly, American Lawyer and Conde Nast Traveler, among others. He is a graduate of Harvard University, with a bachelors degree in government. When Twitter Chief Executive Jack Dorsey recently returned from a silent meditation retreat in Myanmar, he publicized the results on his social media platform. Using his Apple Watch and Oura ring activity trackers, he measured his meditations in terms of their relative quantifiable success (The 2nd day was my best. Day 6 was my worst.). He also revealed a disconnection of his surroundings, praising Myanmar without making mention of the ongoing persecution of the Rohingya minority. Isnt there another way to opt out? Tailored to a moment when even meditation is app-based, Jenny Odells How to Do Nothing proposes a different kind of retreat, one that challenges readers to avoid Dorseyan life hacks designed to boost our productivity. Odell asks us to become meaningfully counterproductive to discipline our attention and discover both a self that exceeds algorithmic description and a politics rooted in face-to-face interaction. Doing nothing is trying to give permission to have some emptiness. Jenny Odell Advertisement Jenny Odell, author of How to Do Nothing: Resisting the Attention Economy (Ryan Meyer) This inspiring debut book from the Oakland-based polymath artist argues that the best parts of ourselves are being paved over by a ruthless logic of use. Her anticapitalist manifesto isnt a paean to slackerdom, but rather an argument for consciously redirecting our attention toward the wonders of our immediate environment. With effort, she writes, we can become attuned to things, able to pick up and then hopefully differentiate finer and finer frequencies each time. So why nothing? Speaking by phone from Oakland, Odell says: Rhetorically, the idea of doing nothing contains this feeling of absence that I find really helpful right now. The overall feeling that I have now is too much too much information, during too much of the day, trying to do too many things, feeling like you need to know everything about everything and have a take on everything. So I think this idea of doing nothing is trying to give permission to have some emptiness. I am opposed to the way that corporate platforms buy and sell our attention. Jenny Odell The subtitle of Odells book is Resisting the Attention Economy, which, crucially, does not mean a blanket opposition to products like Twitter. How to Do Nothing is not an antitechnology screed. Rather, she writes, I am opposed to the way that corporate platforms buy and sell our attention, as well as to designs and uses of technology that enshrine a narrow definition of productivity and ignore the local, the carnal, and the poetic. One of her favorite counterexamples is the app iNaturalist, which helps identify flora and fauna in ones local environment. And if you follow Odell on Twitter (@the_jennitaur), youll bless your feed with rare birds, strange plants, local wildlife and oak trees. For a book about place, its crucial that the Cupertino-born Odell is writing from the heart of Silicon Valley. She teaches at Stanford and has done artist residencies at both Facebook and the San Francisco dump. Im a kid who grew up in the Bay Area, and grew up with the internet, and it was super-exhilarating and obviously influenced my work, she says. I thought it was super-amazing, kind of utopian, and now Im having this reckoning with what that actually means. Book jacket for How to Do Nothing: Resisting the Attention Economy by Jenny Odell. (Melville House Publishing) She observes that social media has a financial incentive to keep us in a profitable state of anxiety, envy and distraction but doesnt encourage quitting Facebook, in part because it seems too narrowly prescriptive. Her book cites several historical examples to suggest that logging off and dropping out is an irresponsible choice. I actually know a lot of people who have quit Facebook, and its been great for them, she says. But theres a risk in making it into this all-or-nothing thing, where someone thinks if they cant quit Facebook, theyre stuck using it in this way they always have been. The book has its genesis in the malaise Odell experienced after the 2016 election, as well as longer-simmering concerns about encroaching climate change. She explains feeling beset by a kind of zombie feeling, a very contemporary sort of dread. Its this feeling that there are all of these things to be done, and at the same time it feels totally useless. Its really hard to sit with that feeling, I think. The mind would rather do anything other than sit with that. Odell turned to bird-watching, uninterrupted contemplation and environmental activism. Shes making a concerted effort to know her surroundings, but also says climate change will force us urban dwellers to become newly attentive to the natural world. Odell says she is not a fan of self-help books and adds: I am obviously pushing against the idea of the quick fix. But despite its slightly cheeky title, How to Do Nothing is genuinely instructive, elaborating a practical philosophy to help us slow down and temporarily sidestep the forces aligned against both our mental health and long-term human survival. You can knock the hustle and you should. :: How to Do Nothing: Resisting the Attention Economy Jenny Odell Melville House; 256 pp., $25.99 Gottlieb is a writer living in Los Angeles and a regular contributor to The Times. The palo verde trees are blossoming and covering the ground around them with golden flowers. Its an incredible sight to behold as the sun rises over the mountain range. I have been in Tucson for only a few days and I want the Sonora Desert to keep me here, dazzling me year-round with its vast sky and enchanting light. The trail I have chosen runs along the Santa Cruz River, which is currently dry, but the air all around it is clear and crisp. And just as Im about to throw my arms out in a theatrical display of complete freedom and ecstasy, I meet runners holding photographs and rosaries. I recognize the child in the pictures. Shes Jakelin Caal Maquin, a 7-year-old Guatemalan girl who died in Border Control custody in December. Most likely, theyre headed to the Santa Cruz Catholic Church down the road. I stop, leaving my arms at rest, and bow my head. Its the only respectful gesture I can think of at the moment. Saguaro cactuses are backlighted by western sun at the Saguaro National Park, West, Tucson Mountain District in Pima County west of Tucson, Ariz. (Ron Medvescek / Associated Press) RELATED: Bruce Bergers A Desert Harvest finds a story in every sunset and quirky character of the West Advertisement Its been a few years since Ive been back to Arizona, but I have been reminded suddenly about how complex the politics and culture of the state have always been. I lived in Tempe from 1994 to 1997, while I was a graduate student at Arizona State University. Upon my arrival, I learned three quick facts that intrigued me about the state: most of Arizona had no Daylight Savings Time, it took pressure for the state to finally observe Martin Luther King Jr. Day and it had drive-through liquor stores. I once walked up to the window of the one near my apartment, and the employee rolled his eyes at me. I had moved to Tempe from Davis, Calif., where I had just completed another college degree, and I wasnt ready for the Arizona traffic, the heat or the monsoons. But I was determined to learn something about my new home for the next few years. Driving around aimlessly in my orange Toyota Celica wasnt working. I simply came upon more intersections and more roads. At one point, I saw a flurry of activity at the entrance to a building, and I decided to be spontaneous and join in, perhaps make new friends. My risk fell flat when I realized it was a plasma donor center. Its embattled history is what makes Arizona all the more inspiring to an expansive and diverse community of writers. Rigoberto Gonzalez Books offered me a better impression of this place that had once been part of Mexico; a place established over the Navajo Nation, the Tohono Oodham Nation and many other tribes; that shared 370 miles of border with the Mexican state of Sonora. My first notable encounters were Luis Alberto Urreas The Devils Highway, Leslie Marmon Silkos Almanac of the Dead and Cormac McCarthys Blood Meridian. All three offered terrifying portraits of the beleaguered interactions among white Americans, Mexican border crossers and indigenous peoples. Its no exaggeration to say that the outlook came across quite bleak. This gorgeous desert was also a place of struggle and death. But then I discovered Alfredo Vea Jr.s La Maravilla, in which a group of outsiders of all ethnicities and faiths forms a community on the outskirts of Phoenix. These larger-than-life characters keep a young boy distracted from the fact that he has just been separated from his parents, who were struggling with their failing marriage. The boys grandmother is a Spanish healer, his grandfather a Yaqui shaman; instead of dividing his loyalties, they show him how to embrace a multivalent identity. The magical realist ending of La Maravilla still makes my eyes water because I understood that though the boy was now being taken away yet again from the people he loved, he was taking the rich experience of his time with them to his next destination. And isnt that the most positive light to cast upon the journeys of migrants, exiles and refugees who have been torn from their homes? Bishop of Tucson Gerald Kicanas passes communion wafers through to the Mexican side of the U.S.-Mexico border fence during a special Mass on the Border on April 1, 2014, in Nogales, Ariz. (John Moore / Getty Images) RELATED: In Lost Children Archive, a Southwestern road trip reveals the scars of Americas immigration crisis For me, the two formidable voices of Arizonas poetic setting are Sherwin Bitsui and Alberto Rios. Bitsui is Dine, from the Navajo Reservation in White Cone. His books Shapeshift, Flood Song and, most recently, Dissolve, engage the tensions between the rural and the urban American Indian experience. Languages and cultures collide, but they also collaborate to present a complete picture of contemporary Navajo life. Rios was appointed state poet laureate in 2013, and his books frequently touch on the wonders and hazards of the desert, like the poem Rabbits on Fire found in his collection The Smallest Muscle in the Human Body. Its a startling ode to brush fires, which set tiny mammals aflame, which in turn ignite the brush and dried weeds/ All over again, making more fire, around them. The literature of Arizona has continued to grow as the stories from Asian American writers shed light on the Asian diasporas historical connections to the Southwest. Cynthia Kadohatas Weedflower reminds us of the two Japanese internment camps set up along the Gila and Colorado rivers during World War II. Sumiko, a young internee, befriends a Mojave boy from a nearby reservation, thus learning that her people are not the only ones displaced and deemed unwanted. More recently, Hannah Lillith Assadis Sonora tells the story of Ahlam, the daughter of a Palestinian father and an Israeli mother, who trades the Arizona desert for New York City to find her own place in the world. And Laila Halabys Once in a Promised Land traces the difficult adjustment of a Jordanian couple as they attempt to find normalcy in Tucson during the post-9/11 era, besieged by Islamophobia. A pink house in Tucson. (Richard Cummins / Getty Images) At 10 a.m., the temperature has already risen to 80 degrees and the heat feels heavy on my body. Sluggish, I walk back toward the University of Arizona, the institution sponsoring my week-long stay in Tucson. At my presentation a few nights before, I was reminded that I was one of many writers who had called for a boycott of the state in 2010, shortly after SB 1070 (the so-called show me your papers bill) was passed. Later, an ethnic-studies ban went into effect in Tucson public schools that deemed classes like Mexican American studies too anti-American. Books were removed from classrooms. This led to the creation of Librotraficante, a grassroots caravan traveling to Arizona from Texas that smuggled copies of those books back to Tuscon. Id like to believe that these are all troubles of the past, but just a week before my arrival, the campus was abuzz with demonstrations over the Arizona Three, college students who were charged with protesting the presence of uniformed Border Patrol agents at an event hosted by a university club. On April 19, the charges were dropped. Im reminded to contact Francisco Cantu, author of The Line Becomes a River: Dispatches From the Border, a memoir about his brief stint as a Border Patrol officer and his subsequent political awakening. Paco, as hes called, has promised to take me to the Agave Heritage Festival in Tucson to taste-test mezcal. Another friend who has recently made the city home has agreed to take me on a hike up Tumamoc Hill. Theres something about the energy of the mountain thats spiritual and sobering, she informs me. But Im looking forward to the up-close views of the saguaro, the cactus species that looks like giant hands reaching up with extended fingers. At night, I am certain they pinch the stars. A landscape doesnt have to look like a war zone for it to be inhabited by conflict. Rigoberto Gonzalez A landscape doesnt have to look like a war zone for it to be inhabited by conflict. It appears that its embattled history is what makes Arizona all the more inspiring to an expansive and diverse community of writers. And that makes it much more appealing for me as a reader who is curious and inquisitive about the places I visit. Its now close to noon. A stillness falls upon the area, because anyone who had to get somewhere has already arrived. I too need to find shelter soon, before the heat begins to hurt. I take a few pictures of an ocotillo and an echinocactus to post on social media. A sneeze attack seizes me. My allergies are kicking in. Gonzalez is a Times critic at large. Star Wars fans have spent years waiting for Disneyland to let them enter a galaxy far, far away. How then does the Magic Kingdom get them to leave? Disneylands May 31 launch of Star Wars: Galaxys Edge will test the parks efforts to open a highly anticipated expansion without the crushing crowds, frustration and chaos that can accompany a new attraction. The much-hyped land is expected to attract such a throng that Disneyland engineers and landscapers have been working for months to accommodate more visitors by widening walkways and improving queueing systems. Advertisement To maintain some order during the first three weeks after the 14-acre attraction opens, Disneyland will require reservations for each visitor to enter the land, with colored wristbands used to distinguish which four-hour time window corresponds with each visitor. Once a time window expires, park employees dressed as Star Wars characters will politely tell parkgoers that they need to leave the land to make way for new visitors. Disneyland representatives say they expect that most guests will abide by the courteous directions to move on. But they remain mum about what will happen if guests ignore the requests. Four hours is a long time in the land, said Kris Theiler, vice president of the Disneyland Park. Most guests are going to find that theyre ready to roll after four hours. Disney unveils a new annual pass that aims to ease crowding The new $1-billion land was built in the northwest corner of the park, replacing several attractions in Frontierland, including a petting zoo. It will have three entrances, where employees can control the crowd flow. The expansion is designed to resemble a remote outpost on the planet Batuu filled with space outlaws, smugglers and rebels battling the evil empire. The land features two rides, four eateries, one space-themed cantina and five retail shops. Workers on Monday were putting finishing touches on electrical and mechanical features, such as a robot that turns a spit at a barbecue eatery, as media members were allowed a glimpse of the new area. The buildings look aged and war-ravaged, and the rocky hoodoos that dot the landscape are meant to resemble the remnants of giant petrified trees. The roar of spaceships landing and taking off blasts from hidden speakers. Several shops and eateries operate out of what resembles a Middle Eastern bazaar. All the signs on the concrete buildings are in an alien language, but visitors with the Play Disney Parks app will be able to use it to translate the signs into English, park representatives said. Everyone else will have to ask staff for help in identifying the stores and restaurants. If it doesnt work out, we can tweak it later, Theiler said about the signs. Only one ride, the interactive Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run, will be operational on opening day. The second Galaxys Edge attraction Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance is promised for later in the year. Park representatives have not disclosed whether they will limit how many times park visitors can ride the Millennium Falcon attraction during each four-hour window. If the ride breaks down during the three-week reservation period, Disneyland will make amends to the guests, park representatives said, but no details have been provided yet. Guests at Universal Studios Hollywood look into the front gate to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter attraction that opened in April 2016. (Al Seib / Los Angeles Times) The reservation system is Disneylands effort to avoid the gridlock and social media backlash that have come with the opening of other blockbuster attractions, such as the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios Hollywood in 2016 and Cars Land at Disneys California Adventure Park in 2012. When the popular Tower of Terror drop ride at Disneys California Adventure Park was overhauled in 2017 to become Guardians of the Galaxy: Mission Breakout, the lines during opening weekend were as long as five hours. Vistors wait for the new Radiator Springs Racers in Cars Land to open at Disney California Adventure Park on opening day, June 15, 2012. (Mark Boster / Los Angeles Times) Park visitors who book rooms at any of the three Disneyland Resort hotels automatically get a four-hour reservation to visit the land. Parkgoers who didnt go the hotel-room route were allowed to make reservations online May 2. Those reservations for the initial May 31-to-June 23 opening period were filled within two hours. And there were a few hitches: Some people with hotel reservations complained that Disney sent them Star Wars land reservations for the wrong dates, and others groused that the online reservation system didnt give them the chance to add friends and family to their party problems Disney representatives say have been addressed. After June 23, the theme park will launch a virtual queueing system, similar to the FastPass system used to schedule appointments to ride the most popular attractions. By visiting the Disneyland app or a kiosk in the park, visitors can sign up to be part of a boarding group to enter the Star Wars land. Each boarding group will have a two-hour window in which to enter the land but no time limit once visitors enter. Disneyland workers will gauge how crowded the land is before deciding when to accept more boarding groups. Disneyland officials have not decided how long into the future they will require the virtual queueing system for the land, hinting that it may be deployed as long as the Star Wars land is in high demand. hugo.martin@latimes.com To read more about the travel and tourism industries, follow @hugomartin on Twitter. The rigged nature of the U.S. healthcare system was highlighted this week as the drug industry challenged even a halfhearted attempt to shine a little sunlight on pricing. The Department of Health and Human Services finalized a rule Wednesday that would require drugmakers to disclose a drugs cost in TV ads if its price before rebates and discounts is above $35 for a months supply. The rule will go into effect 60 days after its published, which is expected Friday. Patients who are struggling with high drug costs are in that position because of the high list prices that drug companies set, Health and Human Services Secretary Alex Azar said in a statement. Making those prices more transparent is a significant step in President Trumps efforts to reform our prescription drug markets and put patients in charge of their own healthcare, he said. Advertisement A significant step is being generous. Rather, this is a better-than-nothing move from an administration thats been promising for years to crack down on runaway drug prices but has come up short in taking meaningful action. This is a step in the right direction, although I view it as a modest measure, said Vivian Ho, director of the Center for Health and Biosciences at Rice Universitys Baker Institute for Public Policy. The drug industry responded as if Trump is forcing manufacturers to hand out their products for free. Stephen J. Ubl, chief executive of the trade group Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America, said in a statement that giving people information about pricing would just make things worse. He said including prices in TV ads could be confusing for patients and may discourage them from seeking needed medical care, which of course is an absurd thing to say. All it will do is remind people how much theyre being charged and perhaps make them wonder why Americans pay more for prescription meds than anyone else. We support providing patients with more transparency about medicine costs, Ubl said, insisting that patients prefer the industrys less-transparent approach of posting prices online, where theyre harder to find. Finally, he said drugmakers think the final rule raises 1st Amendment and statutory concerns, which suggests the likelihood of lawsuits and possibly years of legal delays. The industrys knee-jerk opposition to consumer-friendly change reminds me of how automakers aggressively fought efforts in the 1950s and 60s to require seat belts in vehicles, arguing that consumers neither wanted nor needed such an intrusive policy. We now know that seat belts reduce serious injuries and deaths by about 50%, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and represent the single most effective way to save lives and reduce injuries in crashes. The auto industry was interested in profits before public safety, and drug companies are behaving in no less a contemptuous fashion. They say disclosing drug prices in TV ads would give the impression that patients have to pay that much for their meds, when in reality, thanks to insurance and discounts, out-of-pockets costs likely are less. That impression might prompt some people to stop taking medicine or ration their doses, the industry says. Or, as the Trump administration hopes, it might shame drug companies into behaving better. Consumers will see high list prices and get sticker shock, said Jason Doctor, chairman of the Department of Health Policy and Management at USCs Price School of Public Policy. This creates a manufacturer incentive to keep the TV ad prices low. Wishful thinking, if you ask me. If anything, patients, if they actually pay attention to the televised disclosures, will simply understand that many branded prescription drugs are really expensive. But they already know that. Drug companies, for their part, are already comfortable with being the bad guys in many peoples eyes. Its difficult to see how adding prices to those fleeting disclosures on TV will suddenly make them realize they could be decent people, if they tried. A big problem here is that drug prices are deliberately complicated to prevent anyone from knowing how much money is truly changing hands. Drug companies routinely set list prices that are far above actual costs. This allows them to begin negotiations with insurers and pharmacy benefit managers at a sufficiently high level to guarantee fat profits even at reduced prices. And manufacturers will charge as much as they can get away with. The United States is one of the only developed countries that has no regulations for drug pricing. Most experts believe one of the few effective ways of lowering drug prices would be to allow Medicare to negotiate payments for prescription meds on behalf of its 57 million beneficiaries. This common sense move has been blocked for years by Republican lawmakers who, like drug addicts, have grown dependent on pharmaceutical-industry cash. If Medicare were able to flex its market muscle, drug makers would quickly set prices at reasonable levels, lowering the pricing threshold for private insurers as well. Ideally, Medicare and private insurers would negotiate in tandem, placing even more downward pressure on drug prices. For all his bluster about drug companies getting away with murder, Trump has resisted taking the genuinely significant step of empowering Medicare to use the market power that conservatives claim can solve all our healthcare woes. This indicates that Trumps commitment to patient welfare is little more than political posturing. Moreover, why not end the wasteful practice of allowing drug companies to advertise prescription medicine directly to consumers? Only one other country New Zealand allows this. Every other nation has concluded that the practice causes more harm than good. Including prices in drug ads is helpful. However, its not a cure for what ails us. And if the industry really finds itself in pain, it can just take a pill. A too-expensive pill. David Lazarus column runs Tuesdays and Fridays. He also can be seen daily on KTLA-TV Channel 5 and followed on Twitter @Davidlaz. Send your tips or feedback to david.lazarus@latimes.com. I just want to do Becketts Happy Days over and over again, Dianne Wiest declared between nibbles of a poached egg. I dont want to do anything else, because nothing else comes near it. Samuel Becketts 1961 absurdist classic, which begins previews May 15 at the Mark Taper Forum, was the reason for this late-morning breakfast with the two-time Oscar winner, whose high-strung vulnerability was an essential comic shade on Woody Allens vintage filmmaking palette. Wiest is reprising her performance as Winnie, the determinedly cheerful chatterbox who tries to engage her uncommunicative husband as she sinks into a mound of earth. The production, directed by Yale School of Drama dean James Bundy, began at the Yale Repertory Theatre in 2016 before moving the following year to Theatre for a New Audience in Brooklyn. The play, a portrait of a woman chirpily confronting the inexplicable riddle of the human condition, has become something of an obsession for Wiest. For a week last October, she performed excerpts of Happy Days while enclosed in a sculptural costume designed by artist Arlene Shechet in a free public offering in New Yorks Madison Square Park. A cop would stop and listen, she recalled. Kids were running around. I cant remember what horrible thing was going on in the world but people were affected. They needed to hear this now. I felt so useful. Advertisement Wiest played Winnie at Yale Repertory Theatre in 2016, with later runs of Happy Days scheduled around shooting of the CBS sitcom Life in Pieces. (Serge Nivelle) With Beckett it gave me an incredible sense of security and confidence, because I felt held by him. He worked everything out himself. Actress Dianne Wiest, on Samuel Becketts meticulously detailed stage directions The two of us were sitting at a window seat at a bright and busy French bistro on Manhattans Upper West Side, a stones throw from the rambling apartment (a great big classic seven) where she raised her two daughters. She pointed longingly in the direction of the building, still grieving the loss of her old address. Wiest had flared up in the gossip columns a few years ago when she told an interviewer she didnt think she could afford her rent any longer. This is the kind of story the New York tabloids feed on a beloved New York film actress being priced out of Manhattans berserk real estate market. Homelessness was never in the offing. Blushing at the memory of a story gone viral, she explained it was simply the reality of a single mother shouldering hefty tuition bills amid the vagaries of an acting career. Finally persuaded that it would make more financial sense to buy a place, she relocated a mere subway stop away. But for Wiest, the new neighborhood isnt the same. The stores, the restaurants, the life on the street are not the old stores, the welcoming restaurants, the familiar throng. Her memories are here, not there. She revealed this with a sense of embarrassment at her own wistfulness her dreamy nostalgia evoking Becketts Winnie, who leans back in her mound and apostrophizes the old style. Some actors when being interviewed remind you that they are actors. Wiest reminds you that shes a human being. For those who adored and intimately understood her chronically insecure, touchingly twitchy character in Allens Hannah and Her Sisters, the first of Wiests Oscars, meeting her in person is like reuniting with the friend you always knew her to be. Ill confess I was surprised when I heard she was doing Happy Days at Yale. I knew she was an accomplished stage actor who had developed her craft early on at nonprofit theaters, including the Taper, where she appeared in Dusa, Fish, Stas and Vi in 1978. Id seen her numerous times onstage, but I always associate her with that string of Allen films that began in 1985 with The Purple Rose of Cairo and ended in 1994 with Bullets Over Broadway, for which she won her second Oscar playing the turban-wearing, martini-swilling diva Helen (Dont speak!) Sinclair. Dianne Wiest with John Cusack in Bullets Over Broadway. (Brian Hamill) Wiest said most people recognized her from her two seasons on Law & Order, an experience she gently described as a nightmare. She was hired to replace Steven Hill but told producers she couldnt just be a female substitute for him, to which they assented before placing her in what she called a straitjacket. A two-time Emmy winner, Wiest isnt in the least bitter. Im not a TV watcher, she said. If I had just watched, Id have understood you dont want to change the Coca-Cola recipe that works brilliantly. The journey with Happy Days in the last few years has been fitted around her shooting schedule for the CBS sitcom Life in Pieces. (I have to support the play, she said.) But the Irish playwrights place in her career has a long and impressive history. Wiest was directed by Alan Schneider, Becketts handpicked American interpreter, on a 1976 bill at Arena Stage in Washington, D.C., that included Play and the American premiere of Footfalls. The Alan Schneider! I interjected. It amazes me, she said. I didnt know what I was doing. I was still a kid, but I felt deeply drawn without knowing why. I felt the same about Happy Days. Beckett, in a characteristically self-effacing letter, advised Schneider on the casting of Winnie in the plays world premiere at the Cherry Lane Theatre in New York: Dont rush it in any case, without adequate actress it hasnt a hope in hell. In another letter, he wrote, Terrible role, all evening alone on stage and for last 20 minutes without a gesture to help voice. Perhaps its just madness. Yet for a stage actress wanting to test her mettle, Winnie has become one of the grandest challenges in the repertoire. Wiest pulled out a copy of the play, but it wasnt the one she wanted. I have another copy and it says 1994. So its been ... Wow, 25 years, I interrupted. I was working on the play in a workshop, and I couldnt even figure out how to memorize it, she said. Olympia Dukakis was teaching at the time, and she said you just have to do it. But I couldnt figure out whether to memorize the line and then the stage action, or do I memorize putting the cap down and then the line. I just memorized whatever he wrote in order and worked on that for, like, 10 years. Why so long? I was just really terrified, she said. And then it occurred to me that if I didnt do it soon, I wouldnt be able to do it, because I wouldnt have the capacity to memorize it. Wiests conversational mode is sweetly apologetic, self-deprecatingly so at times. She referred to herself as a failed autodidact, but the sharpness of her mind is unmistakable. When I mentioned that the actor Alan Mandell, who had worked with Beckett directly, described the plays to me as scores, she played down her own talent in this regard before underscoring the importance of the observation. Im not musical at all, and I dont sing a note, she said. I have no talent that way whatsoever, and its my greatest yearning to be able to do that. But with Beckett, the musicality takes you along, so much so that in rehearsal at Yale they handed us a new script and there was a line that didnt seem right. They kept saying it was right, but then they discovered that they had left out a word. I, who am nonmusical, could hear what was wrong, because the music was off. To cope with her characters confinement in Happy Days, Wiest uses small movements not visible to the audience to keep the blood flowing to her feet. (Joan Marcus) FOUNTAIN THEATRE: In Daniels Husband, a gay couple debates marriage. Then Mom and fate arrive Beckett was as ruthlessly meticulous in mapping out the stage action as he was in composing the verbal text. Wiest admitted it was unusual to have her movement be so prescribed, but as Bundy noted in an email exchange, shes a dedicated interpreter who is brave enough to find freedom in the form. If anyone aside from Beckett or maybe Woody told me when I needed to sit down or to move across the room, I would say, Hang on. Let me see what I can find, because it will be better than carrying out your orders, she said. But with Beckett it gave me an incredible sense of security and confidence, because I felt held by him. He worked everything out himself at his desk before he asked an actor to do it. Veterans of Becketts work in performance can attest to the physical and mental hardships of being confined. At Yale, Wiest worked with an Alexander Technique teacher, who devised movements that wouldnt be visible from the waist up to keep the blood flowing in her feet and legs. And because shes a little claustrophobic, she had an escape hatch designed so she could free herself from the mound in case there was a fire or something awful happened. As she charmingly recounted her fears, I found myself imagining her fateful audition with Allen that landed her a role in The Purple Rose of Cairo. Wiest told the story as though it happened yesterday: Woody was reading the Daily News but claimed to be looking at my resume. They asked if I would mind if they took a Polaroid. I said, No, not at all, but then I closed my eyes. I said, Wait, my eyes disappeared. May I ask for another one? Woody laughed. Why would he think thats funny? But he cast me. Wiest, whose father was a psychiatric social worker in the U.S. Army before becoming a college dean, grew up around military bases. (She called West Point, N.Y., the closest thing she has to a hometown.) She attended college for, like, five minutes, ran off with a traveling Shakespeare troupe and failed constantly in public. Before Allen, she was a working stage actor with just a few screen credits. After him, she was an award-winning star. Wiest with Hannah and Her Sisters costars Mia Farrow, left, and Barbara Hershey. (Orion Pictures) GLENDA JACKSON: A critic goes another round with Broadways King Lear Well, he picked me out of the gutter, as he likes to say, she said, flashing her trademark crinkly-eyed smile. I had done a film, Independence Day, about an abused woman. Pauline Kael dismissed it. Later, when she was writing for the New Yorker, she recanted. But if she had only given me a kind word the first time around, I might have had a different trajectory. Not that Wiest has any complaints about becoming famous via Woody Allen. He spoiled me for all other directors, except maybe Tim Burton, who was exceptional. Woody not only wrote brilliantly and directed brilliantly he acted. He really knew what he was talking about, and hardly anybody does. Would she work with him again? There was no hesitation in her answer: People often ask me and I say, Oh, my God, in a second. But I would never ask because I think Im reminiscent of the whole Mia [Farrow] era. She was the star of the films I did with him. I dont think he wants anything to do with those days. So I think my time is over as far as working together, but he will always be a friend. When asked if she felt any professional uneasiness about her association with Allen after the scandals with Farrow and the children, she made clear where her loyalty lies. She says she doesnt believe the evidence supports the allegation that Allen sexually abused Dylan Farrow, thinks the media has obscured the truth and doesnt see this as having anything to do with the #MeToo movement. Its appalling on so many levels, she said. Its so Greek what happened to them. What happened to Mia was truly awful and tragic, but her revenge was equally awful and tragic. Comedy comes naturally to Wiest, but tragedy has been much on her mind while performing Becketts tragicomedy. The irony of the title is as blazing as the hellish sun that beats down on Winnie, whose parasol is a thin defense against an atmosphere that has become (prophetically) less hospitable. Wiest has compared Happy Days to Hamlet, and not simply because the play is dense in allusions to Shakespeare: Theres nothing I know of that can touch the complexity thats found in Hamlet, other than Juliet, which is strange given her tender age, and Happy Days. Where else can you find a part that deals with the problems of the mind and the meaning of existence? Bundy said the rehearsal journey with Wiest had been intensely textual: In its fierce absurdity, the play divines not only an existential problem, but also a joyous relationship to Shakespeare, Milton, Shelley and vaudeville: Words may fail, as all of us will eventually, but you can take a lot of pleasure in them on the way down. Both director and actor agree that, in Bundys words, the result for audiences has been people walking away saying that they saw themselves in the play. Wiest acknowledged that theatergoers might find it initially startling to see a half-buried woman sleeping in the middle of the stage. But I feel people go into themselves the way an actor goes into herself, and it becomes a community of exploration, she said. Becketts communion is so complete, you cant help saying, How could he have written this without me? How could he know so much about my own peculiar life? ===== Happy Days Where: Mark Taper Forum, 135. N. Grand Ave., L.A. When: Previews start Wednesday, opens May 22, ends June 30. Performances 8 p.m. Tuesdays-Fridays, 2:30 and 8 p.m. Saturdays, 1 and 6:30 p.m. Sundays (many exceptions; check with the theater) Tickets: $32-$115 (subject to change) Info: (213) 628-2772, CenterTheatreGroup.org Violinist Joshua Bell, cellist Steven Isserlis and pianist Jeremy Denk were set to grapple with Shostakovichs Piano Trio No. 2 on Wednesday night at the Soraya in Northridge. The great 1944 work, composed partly in response to the death of a friend, opens with a barely audible keening melody for the solo cello. But as Isserlis began the soft harmonics, a disturbance in the front row caused him to stop. Bell lowered his violin. Denk waited too. A couple in the front row had started to argue. Loudly. It was so much louder than my harmonics that I stopped, looked at them and was about to start again when they began to argue again, just as loudly, Isserlis later explained to The Times. I had to stop again and apologize: Im sorry to interrupt you. They evidently accepted my apology, because this time they let me start. Advertisement What followed was a profoundly moving rendition of Shostakovichs Trio the centerpiece to a deeply satisfying night of chamber music, including Mendelssohns sunnier Piano Trio No. 1 and Ravels Piano Trio, completed at the start of World War I. HOLLYWOOD BOWL: Contest to play with violinist Ray Chen yields the weird and wonderful Its probably too soon to call Bell, Isserlis and Denk the Jascha Heifetz, Gregor Piatigorsky and Arthur Rubinstein of our day. So far, they have recorded a Brahms disc for Sony Classical, and the concert at the Younes and Soraya Nazarian Center for the Performing Arts is the eighth stop of their first U.S. tour, which consists of 10 concerts in 14 days. Call it an impressive start. They certainly performed authoritatively, delivering seamless ensemble playing in the concerts opener, Mendelssohns Trio No. 1. Isserlis golden-toned cello set a mood of ardor and nobility in the trios two introductory themes, while Bells similarly warm tone and Denks fluent traversal of the composers virtuosic piano writing buoyed an account of Mozartean poise and romantic unpredictability. (The ensemble is recording Mendelssohns two trios in the studio later this week.) Despite the blip at the start of the Shostakovich, the three performers quickly created a sense of intimacy in the 1,700-seat Soraya. There was absolute silence between movements a gauge of the respect that the audience (well, most of the audience) showed the musicians even after the wild exuberance of the second movement Allegro, performed with motoric force. The ensemble gave the third movement Largo, the emotional heart of the work, a touching pathos. Denks opening chords, coupled with Bells despairing entrance on violin, sent shivers down the spine. Shostakovich, the great poet of 20th century anxiety, was also a sensitive folklorist. Bell and Isserlis conveyed the sad intonations of his dancelike Jewish themes in the Allegretto finale with bittersweet urgency and a gripping life-affirming anger. REVIEW: In his 151st role, Placido Domingo plays the wild cat as old lion After intermission, the ensemble made a convincing stylistic leap to the more luxuriant textures of Ravels 1914 Trio. Denk elicited rich harmonic colors from the piano. He challenged his colleagues as they negotiated the fluctuating tempos and shifting accents in the second movement. In Ravels restrained third movement, the ensemble conjured a sense of nostalgia and loss. They made the sweeping Finale sing out in a thrillingly grand manner. The near-capacity audience didnt get to hear Rachmaninoffs touching Trio elegiaque, which was part of the ensembles original program, because the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center performed the piece in March. We try not to duplicate, Thor Steingraber, the Sorayas executive director, told me before the concert. The full Bell-Isserlis-Denk program can be heard tonight at Segerstrom Center for the Arts in Costa Mesa (Mendelssohns second Piano Trio will be the opener) and on Sunday in Davies Symphony Hall in San Francisco. ===== Bell, Isserlis and Denk Where: Segerstrom Center for the Arts, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa When: 8 p.m. Thursday Tickets: $38-$268 Info: (714) 556-2787 or www.scfta.org ===== See all of our latest arts news and reviews at latimes.com/arts. Kate Beckinsale has starred in period dramas (Much Ado About Nothing, Emma), action films (the Underworld series, Van Helsing) and comedy (Serendipity, The Last Days of Disco). The British performers genre-jumping continues with her move into television drama via Amazon Primes eight-part miniseries The Widow. FULL COVERAGE: Get the latest on awards season from The Envelope Beckinsale, who jokingly described her genre-jumping career as schizophrenic during a recent stop at the Los Angeles Times studio, plays the bereaved Georgia Wells in the streaming series. Georgia believes she lost her husband in a plane crash over the Democratic Republic of the Congo three years prior until she spots him in a news report about unrest in the troubled region. She sets out to find her husband, but what she finds on each step of the journey only deepens the mystery and strengthens her resolve. The Widow star Kate Beckinsale discusses the kinds of roles available to women in TV and movies, how the perception of the kinds of characters women can portray has changed, and the part Underworld played in that change. Advertisement Its quite a nice thing to start with somebody whos at their most vulnerable who does end up finding reserves they may not know they have, said Beckinsale of her characters trajectory. She also discussed the challenges of starring in her first major television series, the sheer physicality of her role as vampire Selene in the Underworld franchise, and what she might have done if the acting thing didnt work out. Id like to have been a doctor, she said. Id still like to be a doctor; its just that Im phobic of vomit. Click the video below to watch the full interview. Theres a reason why the friendship between Aidy Bryant and Lolly Adefopes characters feels so authentic in Hulus Shrill, and that reasons name is Ariana Grande. Based on the bestselling body-image memoir from writer and comedian Lindy West, Shrill has been praised by critics for its deft portrait of a woman named Annie (Bryant) discovering her self worth and leaning into her power after being shackled by low-self esteem in her youth because of her size. The half-hour series, which will return for a second season, also offers a tender and honest look at female friendships through Annies BFF/roommate Fran (Adefope) a standout fan favorite with her clever zingers and her delivery of the sort of brutally honest advice that only a true friend is willing to give. Adefope said she had a natural chemistry from the start with Bryant. It helped too that they didnt mind being in each others company when the cameras werent rolling in Portland, Ore., where the show shoots. We went for sushi, we went shopping, Adefope said during a recent visit to the L.A. Times video studio. We went to a bar, and there was no one in the bar. And so we asked if we could play Ariana Grande and they let us. We harmonized Ariana Grande. We spoke a lot about Ariana Grande her power. We talked about her a lot, just in such a casual way, like, Have you see what Ariana Grande is doing today? Advertisement WATCH: 2019 Emmy Contenders video chats But many viewers are just as interested in what the character Fran might be doing when shes not on-screen in any given scene. So, what might an episode from the perspective of Fran, a self-assured British black lesbian, look like? Aidy Bryant as Annie and Lolly Adefope as Fran in a scene from Shrill. (Allyson Riggs / Hulu) I think it would be interesting to see where she gets her confidence from, Adefope said. How did she become this person, how did she develop into being this person who has so much self-belief? And also to see whether Annies right: Does she treat women badly? Is that just who she is or is she gonna take that advice and change her ways? I think shes not that vulnerable even though shes very open and honest. You dont really see much vulnerability to her. Are we going to see some sides to her where actually shes not that confident as she seemed before, or is she just settled and great and everything is perfect in her world which it never is. Elsewhere in the conversation, Adefope talked about what it was like shooting the shows standout pool party episode (The joy that you see on the show was very apparent on set); how comedy helped her own self-confidence; and working opposite Steve Buscemi in TBS Miracle Workers. For the full conversation, check out the video below. yvonne.villarreal@latimes.com Twitter: @villarrealy Few things have sent up our food-conscious era quite so accurately (or affectionately) as that first-season Portlandia sketch in which a restaurant waiter is given the third degree by concerned patrons over the bona fides of the menus locally raised chicken. (Its not some guy on a yacht in Miami saying hes organic?) But the truth is, once you absorb back-to-the-earth porn as lovingly crafted as The Biggest Little Farm, you might just turn into one of those market gadflies who wants nothing but the most authentic story behind that dewy stone fruit or mocha brown egg. The doc, about the Chester familys biodynamic Eden, Apricot Lane Farms, up in Moorpark, was eight years in the making for John Chester. As commercially tinged as the Chesters gorgeously shot, widescreen advertisement for their progressive project ultimately is, weve needed an inspiring slice of farm-fabulous nonfiction, if only to act as motivational counterprogramming to the gloomy nature of most food docs. Theres been no shortage of activist screeds leading us through the evils, usually corporate in nature, that contaminate our food supply, be it animal treatment, use of chemicals, government policy that cripples small farmers, or the ravages caused by man-made climate change. (Every environmental doc, after all, is inherently a food doc.) Thats why Biggest Little Farm, with its lush tour of transformed land and photogenic fauna, is so appealing as a chronicle of dedicated do-gooders who actually did good (and shot every frame of it). After a prologue in which California wildfires portend disaster for the farm, John narrates us back to the couples origins, when he and Molly were Santa Monica apartment dwellers making do as, respectively, a reality-TV/nature-doc cameraman and a private chef. The introduction of a rescue dog into their lives its barks turning them into unpopular neighbors triggers an urge to forgo urban living completely and kickstart their longstanding dream of owning a farm. Life on the Biggest Little Farm: behind the scenes of a biodynamic blockbuster Advertisement Spurred by the notion of reviving a long-neglected form of agriculture, they purchased 200 acres of soil-dead land north of Los Angeles. With the help of eccentric biodynamic expert Alan York, cultivated investors, young hirees drawn to the Chesters mission, and old hands from the area, they embarked on turning it into a diverse, nutrient-rich farm capable of growing anything and everything. They thought big, reviving an irrigation pond, building a worm compost facility, setting up a multi-fruit orchard, and bringing in a pregnant sow named Emma the movies marquee animal star whose litter they expected to be six but that turned out to be 17. Early optimism quickly gave way to the vicissitudes of depending on Mother Nature, and its at this point that Biggest Little Farm reaps its real rewards. Watching the Chesters fight past disillusionment to learn the real lessons of harvesting in communion with nature is what gives the movie its rousing, illuminating power. Returning wildlife are beautiful (ducks! snails!) until some prove to be pests (thousands of snails eating the crops!), at which point patient human observation (ducks eat snails!) suggests a natural fix (ducks, meet our orchard!) and returns the farm to fertile glory. Even Johns engagement with the farms most persistent, scariest threat coyotes takes a surprisingly complex, respectful turn in keeping with the understanding that wildlife is an issue of integration, not eradication. With cameras seemingly everywhere to capture the Chesters education, and the close-up majesty of their ecosystems cycle of give and take, life and death, separation and connection including an oddball barnyard marriage between Emma and an outsider rooster named Greasy, and incredible night footage of owls whose appearance solves their gopher problem the movie almost veers into seeming overproduced. But the combination of technique and message is ultimately winning. Its tempting to think of Biggest Little Farm as the real-life equivalent of an epic pastoral storybook tale, but with the kind of happy ending that suggests a blueprint for saving the earth. You can imagine Farmer Hoggett from Babe looking kindly on this movies hardworking couple and muttering, Thatll do, Chesters. Thatll do. ------------ The Biggest Little Farm Rated: PG, for mild thematic elements Running time: 1 hour, 31 minutes Playing: Starts May 10, Arclight Hollywood; the Landmark, West L.A. calendar@latimes.com @LATimesMovies Screenwriter Guinevere Turner admitted it was difficult watching the filming of the Manson family murders of pregnant actress Sharon Tate and six others for her latest film, Charlie Says. Im just empathetic, Turner explained over a recent lunch in West Hollywood. Just to even look at Grace Van Dien, who plays Sharon in the movie shes standing there in the corner with her pregnant prosthetic, sobbing to get ready for the scene where shes begging for her life I was crying. For the record: A previous version of this article misspelled the name of Marianne Rendon, the actress who portrays Susan Atkins. Turner thought, How have all the decisions in my life brought me to this moment where I am watching this actress play this victim of this horrible crime? I was dying. There was chatter on the set and I was like, Can you take this all seriously? because the other actors were also covered in blood having to get into that head space. It was deeply disturbing. Charlie Says, opening Friday, marks the third feature film collaboration between Turner and director Mary Harron. Their previous projects were the controversial 2000 American Psycho and 2005s The Notorious Bettie Page. Advertisement Turner debuted as an actress and screenwriter in 1994 with the Sundance hit Go Fish, a milestone of New Queer Cinema. She continued to act and write, including a recurring role on The L Word, where she also served as a story editor, in addition to directing seven short films. Charlie Says is the second movie released this year that travels back to 1969 Los Angeles, when cult leader Charles Manson and his family committed those murders. The horror film The Haunting of Sharon Tate, starring Hilary Duff, disappeared quickly earlier this year and will be released on DVD June 4. Quentin Tarantinos anticipated Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, set to premiere in competition at Cannes before it opens in July, also touches on the killings. What sets Charlie Says apart from those films is that the story of the cult and murders are seen through the eyes of the three women who committed the murders for Manson (Matt Smith) Leslie Van Houten (Hannah Murray), Patricia Krenwinkel (Sosie Bacon) and Susan Atkins (Marianne Rendon) after they are sentenced to life in prison and isolated together in a cell block. (Atkins died in 2009; Van Houten and Krenwinkel are still incarcerated.) From left, Sosie Bacon as Patricia Krenwinkel, Hannah Murray as Leslie Van Houten and Marianne Rendon as Susan Atkins in the movie Charlie Says. (IFC Films) The womens lives change when social worker Karlene Faith (Merritt Weaver) arrives with the hope of rehabilitating the trio, still very much under Mansons spell. The producers of the film met with Turner in 2014 because they wanted it from a womans perspective, Turner said. The screenwriter also thought she was the perfect choice because for the first decade of her life, she grew up in a communal life they certainly wouldnt call themselves a cult with the Lyman Family. (The commune has since evolved into a very successful home construction company.) Turner was born into the compound in 1968, when it included 100 adults and 60 children. She wrote about the experience in a recent New Yorker magazine article, My Childhood in a Cult. The reason I really wanted to write this movie is because things can be so sensationalized or not gotten right in terms of how things are great and then they go bad [in a commune] and how ideals turn didactic and then forceful and then pushing you more and more to the ridiculous until this idea of How did I get here? She was curious for her mother, who left the Lyman Family in 1979 and later became a vice president at Morgan Stanley, to see the film. Harron, who wasnt initially attached to Charlie Says, noted she was excited when she learned Turner was writing the movie. I always wanted her to do something about her childhood, but she was not ready to write it. This is a wonderful way for her to use what she knows and the workings of that kind of commune. It seems a perfect match for her. Though people knew about Manson, who died two years ago at 83, it is interesting that there was no focus on what happened to the women and their state of mind, Harron said. I was really trying to answer the question: How did he get them [to join the cult] and get them to do these horrible things? Turner said . I started reading about human trafficking and sex trafficking. This one guy, a human trafficker, said the most profound thing that has stuck with me [and I used in] the script. He said: I go to a mall. I see a bunch of teenage girls hanging out. I insinuate myself in the conversation. I tell a girl she has pretty eyes. She says,Thank you. I move on to the next one. Finally, when I find the girl and say, You have pretty eyes and she says, No. I dont, thats my target. Isnt that bone-chilling? Review: A feminist take on the Manson Family murders in Charlie Says Though it revolves around the three women, Charlie Says focuses on Leslie Van Houten, who Faith, the social worker, bonded with the most and about whom she later wrote the book The Long Prison Journey of Leslie Van Houten. Karlene stayed in touch with all of them, said Turner, who spent a lot of time with Faith at her home in Vancouver before her death in 2017. Karlene and Leslie were good friends for so many years. There are so many tentacles to the story, but one of them is Leslie had a retrial and she got to be out of prison for [six months]. When she did that, she and Karlene were together. Karlene had a network of women who were in L.A. and found a place for her to stay and really tried to help her out. She had a retrial and then went back in. Turner was disturbed when she learned the three women were kept isolated together for the first five years of incarceration. There were a couple of other people who came and went in those five years, but the worst thing you could have done for these women psychologically was give them only each other to talk to. I mean, that to me was shocking, having grown up the way I did and just knowing so much. When the David Koresh, Waco, Texas, things happened [in 1993], I was thinking to myself Dont confront them with guns. Its the apocalyptic vision coming to life. Turner acknowledged there has been criticism of Charlie Says, wondering why she didnt explain why these women were susceptible to do this thing. My response is that I hate movies that tell us why people do crazy things because we dont know. You and I can have the same upbringing and make different choices. Van Houten, she noted, had a lovely family. Susan had a rough time, but theres a million women who left home at 16 and didnt kill people. Theres no logic to it. Im always mad when the big reveal is, like, the woman was sexually abused. All the things that people do as adults cannot be directly explained by their childhoods. Manson, who had spent more than half of his life behind bars, read Dale Carnegie before he was released in 1967. He had asked every pimp and con man who would talk to him, How did you do it? He was in pimp school [while in prison]. The big thing I got when he came out was, he was looking to be a pimp. Then circumstances of what the world was like in 1968, he was like Holy crap. Theres all these young people who are just ready for someone to tell them what is going on because the world is upside down. There is a moment in the film when a woman who works in the prison asks Faith if she would be as sympathetic to the three women if they had murdered her sister. I wrote that because its a question I had to ask myself over and over while I was writing it, said Tuner. I would think to myself: Yes, I think these women in their 60s should be let out. They made horrible shocking, disturbing choices and they were manipulated. The have 100% atoned, the two who are alive. Would I feel that way if it was my sister? Its so hard to say, but part of me knows that part of me would say Rot in hell. Never ever walk. Never ever have a normal life. But Im so anti-prison that I dont know. calendar@latimes.com @LATimesMovies My Son jumps into its missing-child scenario from Frame 1 and snowballs into a tense and intense, if at times too-conveniently plotted, mystery thriller. Think a more bare-bones, French-language Taken. This engrossing, propulsive film, which director Christian Carion (who co-wrote with Laure Irrmann) shot in sequence over just six days, stars Guillaume Canet as Julien, a career-first father hellbent on tracking down his 7-year-old son, Mathys (Lino Papa), who was likely abducted from a kids nature camp. Regretful over his recent absence from Mathys life plus perhaps his split from Mathys mother, Marie (Melanie Laurent) Julien becomes a one-man fight club as he rashly pieces together clues to the boys whereabouts. Julien screws up en route, but with the help of video footage, a license plate number and a harrowing sequence involving a handy blowtorch, zeroes in on the murkily drawn bad guys. Havoc, of course, ensues. Despite hints that Juliens globe-trotting job involves risk, how he got so tough is one of the films many just-go-with-it elements. Advertisement Canet (also currently in Non-Fiction) proves especially gripping, given his reportedly improvised role: Carion, who previously collaborated with the actor on Joyeux Noel and Farewell, revealed the films story to him only as they shot. Laurent has several superb moments as the conflicted Marie, and Olivier de Benoist registers as her obtuse boyfriend. ------------- My Son In French with English subtitles Not rated Running time: 1 hour, 25 minutes Playing: Starts May 10, Landmark Nuart Theatre, West L.A. calendar@latimes.com @LATimesMovies If ever there were a cinematic equivalent of purple prose, the Kenyan director Wanuri Kahiu finds it. Vibrant shades of purple and pink pop into nearly every frame of her new movie, Rafiki, a lovely and affecting tale of forbidden desire. There are the lovely pastel-hued braids worn by a young woman named Ziki (Sheila Munyiva), and also the flowers growing over an abandoned van that becomes a refuge for her and her girlfriend, Kena (Samantha Mugatsia). Even the pastor at Ziki and Kenas church wears a purple shirt as he preaches to a community that will show its own truer, uglier colors before the movie ends. The effect of Kahius style given a striking assist by Arya Lalloos production design and Christopher Wessels cinematography is to cast a bright, accessible sheen over an earnest and fairly predictable narrative. It begins with the tentative stirrings and blissful consummation of first love, then proceeds swiftly to the discovery and retaliation of a scandalized community. The familiarity of this story, of course, is also a sign of its ongoing relevance. Last year, shortly before Rafiki became the first Kenyan movie to screen at the Cannes Film Festival, it was banned from release in its own country, where homosexuality is illegal. The ban was eventually lifted for seven days so that the movie could play theaters and qualify for Academy Awards consideration. Here in the U.S., the only ban it faces is the lack of awareness that greets almost every non-English-language release without a major star attached. Perhaps you think youve seen this particular movie before, possibly told with more dexterity and finesse. But to merely describe what happens in Rafiki would be to overlook its transporting sense of place, its striking visual pleasures and its credible and moving performances. Advertisement RELATED: Kenyan director Wanuri Kahiu on her once-banned film Rafiki Adapted by Kahiu and Jenna Bass from a short story by the Ugandan writer Monica Arac de Nyeko, the movie follows the perspective of Kena, a smart, unassuming Nairobi teenager who dreams of a medical career and spends her free time hanging out and playing ball with the boys in her neighborhood. One of them, Blacksta (Neville Misati), makes playful romantic overtures nearly every time they meet up, though Kena already has other ideas, and people, in mind. When she locks glances with the outgoing and vivacious Ziki, first seen dancing outdoors with her friends, Kena is immediately and thoroughly smitten. The feelings turn out to be mutual, if far from easily expressed. The criminalization of same-sex love isnt the only barrier standing in their way. Kenas father, a shopkeeper (Jimmi Gathu), is running for office against Zikis father (Dennis Musyoka), who has greater wealth and name recognition on his side. These warring political factions are not exactly Capulets and Montagues, though the result is much the same: Ziki and Kena set tongues a-wagging if they do so much as have a drink together in public, let alone kiss or lock arms. (Rafiki means friend in Swahili, and is a common LGBT euphemism for a significant other.) But the two find their glorious moments of private freedom, and Kahiu shoots them with unabashed lyricism, following the couple from a glow-in-the-dark nightclub where they hit the dance floor to a candlelit hideaway where they make love for the first time. Kahiu keeps the camera moving and the emotions in flux, especially once the truth comes to light. She draws out the pointed differences between Kenas mother, a devout Christian with a talent for moral indignation, and her more understanding father, who knows something of what it means to be an outcast. Kena, for her part, initially seems more scared than Ziki about the prospect of their discovery, but she may well prove to be the more resilient of the two in the long run. That has something to do with class and privilege, as evidenced by Zikis dependency on her family, and also something to do with Kenas self-sufficiency, signaled by the growing determination in Mugatsias eyes. From the kids hula-hooping in the streets to the vile neighborhood gossips who do their part to hasten the story, Rafiki squeezes so much pulsing, teeming life into the frame that its a shame the movie ultimately feels so abbreviated. The coda, in particular, is touching without being especially satisfying, in part because it builds to a gesture that cant help but play like a coy cliche. Its a misstep for a movie with an otherwise remarkable ability to make even its most conventional moments feel bracingly new. ------------ Rafiki (In English and Swahili with English subtitles) (Not rated) Running time: 1 hour, 23 minutes Playing: Laemmle Glendale, Glendale, and Laemmle Royal, West Los Angeles justin.chang@latimes.com | Twitter: @JustinCChang The early years of J.R.R. Tolkiens life play out very much like fiction in Dome Karukoskis biopic of the famed author. So much so that Karukoski doesnt really consider Tolkien, in theaters Friday, to be a biopic at all. The film, which stars Nicholas Hoult as the Lord of the Rings author and Lily Collins as his wife, Edith Bratt, recounts Tolkiens young life, from the loss of his parents to his school years to fighting in World War I. Much of that personal saga is unknown, even to super fans of Tolkien, a category in which Karukoski puts himself. I didnt know anything about his younger life, the director said during a recent press day in London. When I started digging it was surprising. It was this fable of emotions he had experienced that are so readable in his own books. ... Its a story about youth and love and friendship and exploring his mind. Its quite stunning that this story hasnt been told. Hoult, who also grew up reading the authors works, looked for fine details and nuance in his research, pulling from books and video interviews Tolkien did later in life. His goal wasnt to do an impression of Tolkien, but to try to get inside his head and capture his essence. Advertisement Nowadays, even if you dont know someones work you seem to know them, just through how much news is covered and through Twitter, the actor reflected. You seem to know a lot about a lot of peoples lives. And this is someone who I was a fan of and when I read the script I was like, Wow, I didnt know any of that. It was ... lovely to get to go back through his work and learn about what inspired him and the relationships that meant something to him. The actor prepared while shooting X-Men: Dark Phoenix and spent time between takes in full costume and makeup as Beast painting watercolors in Tolkiens style. He added, You do all this research and then hopefully in the back of your mind, when youre on set, its subconsciously there. Detail is where it all comes from. Nowadays, even if you dont know someones work you seem to know them, just through how much news is covered and through Twitter, says Nicholas Hoult. This is someone who I was a fan of and when I read the script I was like, Wow, I didnt know any of that. (Beatrice de Gea / For The Times) Collins had less to work with because Edith and her life arent well documented. A few photographs, including some of the couple together, do exist the actress sensed a cheekiness to Edith, which she brought to the performance and Collins was able to research what it would have been like for women during that period in general. She also learned piano for the role, since it is known that Edith played very well. Ultimately, though, much of Collins performance is drawn from knowing that Edith inspired Tolkien to write the characters of Luthien and Arwen. With a real person I feel, even if theyre not alive anymore, a karmic responsibility to do them justice, said Collins. We dont know much about her and this is a chance to tell a story of a woman of the period that wasnt told before. I would want to feel represented in a way she would be proud of. But ... there was only so much I could do. The rest of it was based on me thinking about the characters she inspired and me loving magic and fantasy. I wanted to formulate a person who would have all these qualities and be inspiring. While the film is ultimately not about Tolkiens writing (there are very few moments where the character actually sits down to put pen to paper), a key scene reveals Edith dancing in the English forest, an instance that apparently inspired the author to base those characters on his wife. To find the right free-spirited vibe, Collins convinced Karukoski to let her dance to an actual song: Florence and the Machines Dog Days Are Over. She is magic when you watch her, Collins noted of Florence Welch. That was the one person I thought made sense to be inspired by. I just went crazy dancing. Tolkien balances these magical, light-hearted moments with heavier ones, eventually leading the characters into World War I, where the author served as a communications officer. Tolkien and his group of close friends from school, which the film suggests inspired the fellowship in Lord of the Rings, all enlist, but only two of them come home. To better understand the horrific impact of the war, Hoult listened to 25 hours of Dan Carlins Hardcore History podcast on the subject. Karukoski didnt want to present a straight-forward depiction of the trenches, however. He intersperses the images of war and gunfire with hallucinations of the sorts of fantastical beasts that appear in Tolkiens stories. Hes a genius in building worlds, so wouldnt I want to see the inspiration for those worlds? the director said. Throughout the film hes sketching his masterpiece he sees a line over there and a line over there. Its yet not the thing it will become. ... Watching an author create I wanted to avoid. Its a story of growth, of how he became an artist. Nicholas Hoult and Lily Collins in Tolkien. (Fox Searchlight Pictures) In order to tell this story well, Karukoski noted, it was necessary to make a few adjustments to the timeline and the events. For instance, the love story between Tolkien and Edith is somewhat simplified and compressed, and a few of the years are changed. But the director met with numerous researchers during the preparation for the film to ensure the scenes and characters resonate with authenticity. The film is very truthful in emotions, he said. Weve taken artistic liberties. ... But the events are emotionally true. We were very, very accurate with the characters, but you have to find your interpretation of everything you discover about them. The Tolkien estate, which was not involved in the making of the film, recently released a statement that it does not endorse [the film] or its content in any way. Karukoski said hes not bothered by the statement, especially since no one from the estate has actually seen the movie. Ive approached them myself to arrange a screening, he said. I would love to sit with them and hear their thoughts and explain why some artistic licenses have been taken. The statement itself is not actually hostile its more like they had to do it so that journalists wouldnt call them. It was actually quite respectful. But Ive given them the opportunity to watch the film with me and they havent responded yet. And I understand if that never happens. He added, This film is done with huge respect. Its not demonizing [Tolkien]. We can stand by the beauty of the story. We wanted to celebrate his life. The celebratory aspect is compelling to Hoult and Collins as well, who have both found a new respect for Tolkiens life and work since making Tolkien. Its really important to see this side of the story, Collins noted. To see what came before the actual stories. Maybe now people rereading the books or rewatching the movies will find little Easter eggs. Those unexpected beginnings are really fun to know about. He changed literature and inspired so many things we love nowadays, Hoult added. Its so ingrained in culture that its remarkable. Id sit around trying to be as imaginative as him, which is impossible. You go around in circles trying to do that. Maybe now people rereading the books or rewatching the movies will find little Easter eggs, says actress Lily Collins of bringing the early days of author J.R.R. Tolkien to the screen. (Beatrice de Gea / For The Times) calendar@latimes.com This is a town that understands the perils and possibilities of sequels. This is also a town that loves the restaurants of Jon Shook and Vinny Dotolo. Who could have predicted, when the Florida natives opened their Fairfax restaurant Animal in 2008, the indelible ways they would eventually shape dining in Los Angeles and beyond? Animal propagated a specific kind of mish-mashed, barely contained, meat-splattered stoner food aesthetic, but Shook and Dotolo didnt cement themselves in monotonous rambunctiousness. As chef-entrepreneurs, theyve gone on to create restaurants around themes of nostalgia and playfulness that sidestep wincing stereotypes. Part of being hit makers is spotting hot talent. While strengthening their own brand, theyve helped other deserving chefs (such as Sara Kramer and Sarah Hymanson of Kismet) create blockbuster platforms for themselves. In the last year, Shook and Dotolos Joint Ventures group took an inevitable expansion track: They introduced second locations for two of their very different but equally genre-pushing restaurants. Jon & Vinnys, their take on a red-sauce joint, spun off from its Fairfax original to open in Brentwood. And Petit Trois, chef Ludo Lefebvres tiny, miraculous, Parisian-inspired bar in Hollywood, was reconceived as a much grander project in Sherman Oaks. Advertisement Do the follow-ups live up to the success of their progenitors? PETIT TROIS VALLEY A lunch crowd fills the dining room at Petit Trois Valley. (Silvia Razgova / For The Times) Without fail, every person I meet for a meal at the second Petit Trois walks in the door, stops short and exclaims, in some variation, I feel like Im in Paris! The space splits the difference between intimate bistro and soaring brasserie: a central bar of thick marble, mirrors and gold framing; Belle Epoque-style chandeliers; black and white checkered floors; leather banquettes in a cool minty green; a ceiling wallpapered in leafy print that gives the impression of a promenade in perpetual spring. Despite its beauty, it took me a few visits to feel transported. The original Petit Trois remains one of the most special restaurants in America. Im devoted to its cramped quirkiness, its appealingly indifferent hustle, and to the way Lefebvre poured his whole Gallic-Angeleno spirit into dishes such as the blond rolled omelet, filled ironically but perfectly with Boursin, and escargots saturated in butter and garlic, and the Big Mec burger soused with Bordelaise, garlic aioli, caramelized onions and American cheese. Popular dishes at Petit Trois Valley include mussels mariniere, the Big Mec double cheeseburger, avocado-feta omelet and escargots. (Silvia Razgova / For The Times) The Valley location, in operation for a year now, is slowly developing its own culinary character. The two menus share many of the same dishes. A reconstruction of a classic endive salad, terrific at either location, is pure Lefebvre: Shaved Ubriaco cheese blankets the pale spears, which in turn hide hunks of avocado, slithering slips of anchovy and a walloping vinaigrette of ground walnuts that resembles freshly mulched earth. So many layers, so much flavor. Same for his mustardy steak tartare buried alive in fried shallots. Both of the Petit Trois signatures suffered in comparison during my meals. The Valleys omelet had too much Boursin, which threw off the textural balancing act that makes the dish such a feat, and the two patties in the Big Mec I tried were overly dense and over-salted. Review: In Encino, Sushi Bar serves up 17 courses with a side of showmanship When I focused on the dishes offered only in the Valley, I warmed to the place. Chunky, chewy-crisp lardons lent charisma to a handsomely singed tarte flambee. A recent special of quickly fried sweetbreads in Calvados cream with apples was timeless and wonderful. Rachel De Jongs parfait version of a strawberry cake is excellent. (Silvia Razgova / For The Times) Pastry chef Rachel De Jong, the breakout star of this sequel, knows how to channel Lefebvres trademarks around form and feeling. She transformed fraisier (strawberry cake) into an exquisitely proportioned parfait, striated with sponge cake soaked in orange blossom syrup, Harrys Berries strawberries, vanilla bean pastry and roasted strawberry Bavarian cream. She also bakes shattering croissants one highlight of breakfast, which is offered only in the Valley. The morning kitchen crew nailed a simple omelet filled with feta and adorned with avocado. Shook and Dotolo serve primarily as advisors and backers for the Petit Trois restaurants; this is Lefebvres show. In interviews right before the Sherman Oaks location came to life, the Burgundy native talked about the traditional French repertoire (eggs meurette, poached in red wine; boeuf bourguignon) he yearns to tackle. That direction isnt yet in abundant evidence on the Valley menu; here or at another venture, its the progression in his career Im most excited for him to next pursue. JON & VINNYS BRENTWOOD Chef de cuisine Courtney Storer visits with customers at Jon & Vinnys in Brentwood. (Silvia Razgova / For The Times) The menu at Jon & Vinnys is a heat-seeking missile for a certain sort of psyche: If you grew up in any way knowing the tomato-cheese-wheat triumvirate of Italian American cooking, something on the list will find you and melt you. For me, its the mozzarella sticks. The crunch and ombre of the breading, with its forest-dark specks of dried herbs, brings a satisfaction that goes beyond words. The cheese is densely molten and stretchy but doesnt ooze; it waits for you to make the first move. The marinara alongside has a ridiculous pile of grated Grana Padano on top a touch Id add myself at home with no one looking. The salads, the pizzas, the pastas, the smothered chicken entrees, the too-heavy-but-bring-them-anyway desserts: It all registers as mighty familiar for many of us, but the best of these recipes are calibrated with just a few degrees more finesse than youd rightly expect. Thats the gotcha-moment formula, overseen by chef de cuisine Courtney Storer, that makes Jon & Vinnys work. Thats why the prototype on Fairfax Avenue, right across the street from Canters Deli, has been booked for lunch and dinner daily since it opened in April 2015. (Breakfast has always been the prime time to slip in spontaneously.) Jon & Vinnys serves some bomb mozzarella sticks. (Silvia Razgova / For The Times) And prototype really is the right word: This brainchild was born to be cloned. The restaurant in Brentwood is nearly double the size of the original, but it replicates the mood and atmosphere: the walls covered in light, grained woods that recall a Nordic spa; the counter along the open kitchen where the cooks, all wearing different Jon & Vinnys T-shirts, keep their attention trained on their work; the minuscule (and excellent) attached wine shop run by longtime partner Helen Johannesen. Pizzas have the same thin, sturdy crispness; they make neutral delivery vehicles for globs of burrata or pummelings of bacon, sausage, pepperoni and smoked ham. The Brentwood pies arent quite as consistent as they are at Fairfax sometimes theyre baked too long and a little too taut but theyre close enough. This is the direction of the cooking. The ridged mafaldine pasta in silky Bolognese, the charred broccolini salad with chile vinaigrette that jolts with serious heat, the rolling boulders of marinara-braised meatballs, the custardy bread pudding studded with strawberries: None retain quite their vestal precision and ebullience, but they will still hover above most red-sauce restaurant cooking. Ive always hated how hard it is to snag a dinner reservation at the original Jon & Vinnys; I wish I didnt have to plan a month ahead to eat earlier than 4:45 p.m. there. The Brentwood location is almost twice as big as the Fairfax flagship and its nearly as booked at nights, though at least lunchtime tables are easier to score. If within the next five years we see Jon & Vinnys dot the L.A. landscape, and there are mozzarella sticks and a burrata pizza available whenever the whim strikes, I and anyone else for whom this food plucks the heartstrings will likely be happier for it. Petit Trois Valley A bigger, shinier, less soulful location of Ludo Lefebvres groundbreaking bistro. Yessenia Martinez greets guests at Petit Trois Valleys bar. (Silvia Razgova / For The Times) LOCATION 13705 Ventura Blvd., Sherman Oaks, (818) 989-2600, valley.petittrois.com PRICES Dinner appetizers $8-$25; most entrees $18-$39; desserts $5-$18. Breakfast dishes $8-$32. DETAILS Credit cards accepted. Full bar. Valet parking. Wheelchair accessible. RECOMMENDED DISHES Endive salad; tarte flambee; mussels mariniere; chocolate souffle; avocado and feta omelet for breakfast. Jon & Vinnys Brentwood The equally popular sequel to Jon Shook and Vinny Dotolos ode to Italian Americana. Pizza for breakfast (with potato, egg and parmesan) at Jon & Vinnys. (Silvia Razgova / For The Times) LOCATION 11938 San Vicente Blvd., Los Angeles, (310) 442-2733, jonandvinnys.com PRICES Salads and appetizers $6-$17.25; pizzas $13.25-$21.75; $14.25-$23.25; desserts $1.75-$10; breakfast entrees $9.75-$21. DETAILS Credit cards accepted. Wine and beer. Valet parking. Wheelchair accessible. RECOMMENDED DISHES Mozzarella sticks; gem salad; burrata pizza; mafaldine with Bolognese; strawberry bread pudding; spaghetti carbonara for breakfast. bill.addison@latimes.com Instagram: @bill_addison Twitter: @billaddison Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 9) Davao del Norte 1st District Rep. Pantaleon Alvarez is facing a fresh plunder complaint, this time over his alleged receipt of kickbacks from government projects and use of government funds to buy vehicles, parcels of land and a resort on Samal island. Jeffrey Lopez Cabigon, who claims to be a former close-in security of Alvarez and his personal aide Edwin Jubahib, alleged in a 12-page complaint filed Monday before the Office of the Ombudsman in Mindanao that the two bought two Hummers costing 6 million and 8 million each after the election of the congressman as Speaker. After that, Cabigon said he and Jubahib received in their hideout in Belisario Heights, Davao City two new bulletproof Toyota Land Cruisers, supposedly bought by Alvarez through Jubahib. Cabigon added that Jubahib and Alvarez bought a new FJ Cruiser and a Mercedes-Benz G5 totalling to 12 million. Gikan mismo sa baba ni Jubahib na kani tanag kwartaha gikan sa gobyerno ug duga sa pagka-Speaker ni Alvarez, Cabigon said. [Translation: It was from Jubahibs own mouth that the huge amounts of money they were enjoying were all coming from the government and perks of Alvarez being a Speaker.] However, the former Speaker denied that Cabigon was his security aide. Hindi ko kilala yung taong yan. Ngayon, nagtanong ako dito sa mga security ko, sabi ko, Sino ba ito? Sabi nila, Sir, yan yung guard na tiga-bukas ng gate, Alvarez told CNN Philippines in a phone interview on Thursday. [Translation: I dont know that person. I asked my security aides, I said, Who is this? They said, Sir, thats the guard who opened the gate.] This, despite Cabigon showing members of the media in a press conference in Davao City his ID as a security aide in the Office of the Speaker. Jeffrey Cabigon's ID as a security aide in the Office of the Speaker Ang alam ko diyan fake yan, Alvarez said. [Translation: What I know is that is fake.] Samal resort, kickbacks Cabigon said over the course of two years, Alvarez and Jubahib acquired more properties, including a 500-million resort on Samal Island. Gani kaniadto nagkuha mi ug isa ka kwarto sa Insular Hotel sa Davao na maoy napuno ug gibutangan ug kwarta pambayad. Niaabot ug usa ka semana ang binayranay sa mga tag-iya sa maong yuta, Cabigon said. [Translation: In fact, we got a room at Insular Hotel in Davao City. That room was filled with money for payment of the property. The transaction and payment of the property to their owners took at least one week.] Alvarez and Jubahib also supposedly bought land in Panabo City worth 64 million. In the same city, the two alleged also bought a nine-hectare property for which they initially paid for 7 million per hectare and a 100-hectare property worth 3 million per hectare. Cabigon also claimed that the pair bought a 32-hectare property in Davao City Jail and Crocodile Park. He added that Alvarez also bought a mini-forest and rest house along Diversion Road in Davao City. Aside from these, the two also allegedly bought a house and lot in Magdum, Tagum City worth 20 million. Apart from properties, Cabigon accused Alvarez and Jubahib of buying a D7 bulldozer, mini dump trucks and millions of pesos worth of construction materials. The materials allegedly chosen by the congressman himself were worth at least 10 million. Cabigon also claimed having received on behalf of his boss, 10 bulletproof Toyota pickups from contractors, 20 dump trucks named under Jubahib and 10 mixers. He said Alvarez and Jubahib own the Davao City-based Blue Crane Construction, which has been contracted by the government to build roads. He also accused the two of having received kickbacks from the Tagum Flyover project. Matag panahon, nag sige ug panghinambog si Jubahib ug mag uban mi na, Ug ma-okay na ang flyover sa Tagum, tiba-tiba jud atoang makuha na kwarta ana, Cabigon said. [Translation: Almost every time when we were together, Jubahib often boasted that, Once the flyover in Tagum will be okay, we will be raking huge amount of money from that.] Cabigon claimed that Jubahib entered one of the rooms in a beach resort in Samal and came out with two suitcases filled with money for operational expenses, which was supposedly used for Alvarez 60th birthday party and the barangay elections. It was also during Alvarez 60th birthday party that Cabigon claimed to have boarded a car with Jubahib and sat next to boxes filled with money used to pay for guests hotel accommodation. In another incident, Cabigon said they placed two suitcases filled with money from the Tagum Flyover project in the car of Tagum City Mayor Allan Rellon. When he ran in May 2018 as barangay captain for Barangay Tibulao in Carmen, Davao del Norte under the administration party Partido Demokratiko Pilipino Lakas ng Bayan, Cabigon said he was tasked to hand out at least 150,000 from Alvarez to barangay captains in Davao del Norte for the barangay polls. Barangay officials are not allowed to be affiliated with political parties. Cabigon said he lost his bid for barangay captain and gradually distanced himself from Alvarez and Jubahib because he could no longer stomach their corruption. Demolition job? Alvarez said this fresh plunder complaint against him is just a demolition job by his rival for a seat at the House, Davao del Norte Governor Anthony del Rosario. Theyre in a panic dahil hindi nga sila umaangat sa survey. So kung anu-ano nang binabato. Ngayon, ang para sa akin, titingnan natin yung timing, he said. [Translation: Theyre in a panic because they are not rising in the survey. So theyre coming up with many things. Now, for me, lets look at its timing.] He said his accuser should present evidence of his numerous cars and properties. Yung mga binabanggit niya, hindi ko alam yan. Buti pa siya alam niya, ni ako hindi ko alam na mayroon eh, Alvarez said. [Translation: What hes saying, I dont know that. Good for him that he knows, but even I dont know that I own those.] The former Speaker said he is eyeing countercharges against Cabigon after the elections. Alvarez is no stranger to plunder complaints. In 2001, when he was senior assistant general manager and chief operating officer of Manila International Airport Authority, Alvarez was slapped with a plunder complaint for supposedly earning kickbacks from the demolition of subterranean structures to give way for the construction of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3. The demolition was undertaken by Wintrack Builders, Inc., where Alvarez wife, Emelita, is an incorporator. The case was dismissed by the Ombudsman, but reached the Supreme Court, which ordered the graft buster to conduct a new probe. CNN Philippines Correspondent Xianne Arcangel contributed to this report. These kids are going to be like, Wow. That bed is really big. When you put a pea on the bottom of that bed youre never going to feel it. We need to communicate this story in every way possible. Words are not just the way to communicate. You have to communicate visually, he said. Theres something special about Eichler homes. With their sun-filled atriums, floor-to-ceiling walls of glass and open floor plans, the mass-produced Midcentury Modern tract houses built by developer Joseph Eichler have come to symbolize the California dream of indoor-outdoor living. In November, the Orange City Council designated three Eichler tracts as a historic district, and on May 18 and 19, Eichler fans can tour seven of the homes as part of a tour sponsored by the nonprofit preservation group Preserve Orange County. The self-guided tour will cover homes in the Fairhaven, Fairmeadow and Fairhills neighborhoods, including houses designed by noted architects Anshen & Allen, A. Quincy Jones and Frederick E. Emmons, and Claude Oakland. Advertisement Docents will be on site to answer questions and provide directions to participating homes, tracts and events, and on May 19, free child-friendly activities will be provided along the tour route courtesy of the MaxLove Project. In addition, an evening cocktail party held May 18 in an Eichler home will feature food, music and a panel discussion with author Tom Zoellner, architect Alan Hess and a historic resource consultant. Guests are encouraged to attend in 1960s-inspired attire. 1 / 12 An Eichler home in the Balboa Highlands tract in Granada Hills. (Myung J. Chun / Los Angeles Times) 2 / 12 The view from the backyard of a restored Eichler house in Granada Hills. (Genaro Molina / Los Angeles Times) 3 / 12 An atrium welcomes guests at this restored Eichler in Granada Hills. (Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times) 4 / 12 An Eichler model home in Orange, circa 1961, is an example of architect A. Quincy Jones mass-market residential design skills. (Jason Schmidt ) 5 / 12 The atrium entry to an Eichler model by A. Quincy Jones in Thousand Oaks provides a study in sunlight and shadow that changes from hour to hour. (Gerald J. Trafficanda) 6 / 12 An Eichler home in Thousand Oaks. (Anne Cusack / Los Angeles Times) 7 / 12 The Desert Eichler was part of the 2015 Modernism Week Signature Home Tour. (David A. Lee ) 8 / 12 A refurbished design in Orange by developer Joseph Eichler, who created affordable and innovative homes in California in the post-World War II era. (Chas Metivier / MCT) 9 / 12 A photograph from 2000 shows the original kitchen of an Eichler home. The atrium is in the background. (Anne Cusack) 10 / 12 An Eichler home in Thousand Oaks is seen in 2000. (Anne Cusack) 11 / 12 The living room of an Eichler home in Orange as seen in 2005. (Anne Cusack / Los Angeles Times) 12 / 12 An Eichler home in Palm Springs. (KUD Properties) Eichler Home Tour When: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. May 18-19 Where: Tour begins at 850 E. Chapman Ave., Orange Cost: $60, covers both days Info: preserveorangecounty.org MORE ON EICHLER: Midcentury-moderns appeal is simple: It fits the SoCal lifestyle Architectural Spotlight: Midcentury Modern, with its clean lines and simplicity, still has an edgy feel A new crop of Eichlers rises in Palm Springs, the mecca of modernism Brad Laners Eichler house in Granada Hills Travis Kalanick built Uber in his own image. Under his leadership, the company smashed into markets, flouting local transportation rules, circumventing law enforcement and clashing with regulators as it grew into the worlds biggest ride-hailing business. His brash style was seen as the reason for Ubers rise and his own undoing in 2017 when, after a series of scandals, Kalanick was forced to resign under pressure from investors. Since Kalanick was pushed out, Uber has been working hard to tidy its reputation and appear more subdued and well-behaved. New CEO Dara Khosrowshahi has worked hard to move beyond Kalanicks legacy, doing away with his predecessors 14 company tenets, replacing principles such as super pumped and always be hustlin with credos such as we do the right thing and we persevere. But as Uber prepares for its much-anticipated initial public offering, Kalanick isnt out of the picture by any stretch. Advertisement He still sits on Ubers board and holds an 8.6% stake in the company, accounting for about 117.5 million shares, according to the IPO filing. If the company debuts as expected with shares priced somewhere between $44 and $50, his holdings would amount to more than $5 billion. Kalanick plans to be at the New York Stock Exchange on Friday when the company begins trading on public markets, but the co-founder wont be on the balcony when Khosrowshahi rings the opening bell hell be on the floor. Kalanick wanted to be on the balcony with his father in tow when the bell was rung, according to the New York Times, but Khosrowshahi rejected his request. Khosrowshahi and others in the company reportedly considered Kalanick a liability and wanted to keep him at arms length. The company said the plan was always for drivers and early employees to stand with Khosrowshahi on the podium, according to The Times. Both Uber and a spokesperson for Kalanick declined to comment, citing regulatory rules prohibiting promotional efforts ahead of an IPO. Born and raised in Los Angeles, Kalanick dropped out of UCLA in 1998 to work full time on his start-up called Scour, which allowed people to virtually share music and media files. (The company was sued and eventually filed for bankruptcy.) Kalanick founded Uber with his friend Garrett Camp and Ryan Graves (who got his job by tweeting at Kalanick) in San Francisco in 2009. At the time it was called UberCabs, but the company dropped Cabs from its name after receiving a cease-and-desist order from city authorities in 2010. We just wanted to push a button and get a ride, he said at a Business Insider conference in 2013. And we wanted to get a classy ride. We wanted to be baller in San Francisco. Thats all it was about. After his departure from Uber, Kalanick set up an investment fund and purchased for $150 million a controlling stake in the real estate company City Storage Systems, a move that made him the firms chief executive. Kalanick has worked quietly on one of its holdings, CloudKitchens, a Los Angeles-based venture that primarily focuses on kitchen rental services like WeWork but for kitchen space. CloudKitchens has been ramping up: It already works with brands in Los Angeles such as Sweetgreen and Canters Deli, and plans to open shop in San Francisco and Chicago, Bloomberg reports. In March 2018, when Kalanick tweeted about his investment fund, he said its overarching theme would be large-scale job creation, with investments in real estate, e-commerce, and emerging innovation in China and India. The South China Morning Post reported in February that Kalanick also plans to bring CloudKitchens to China. CloudKitchens and Uber could compete, should Uber Eats make further inroads in the virtual restaurant business. But Khosrowshahi last year tweeted congratulations to Kalanick, calling CloudKitchens a super-interesting partner of @UberEats. Los Angeles County is one of the most vulnerable places in America when it comes to measles, largely because of the thousands of travelers arriving every day from countries with massive outbreaks, a new study says. The study, published Thursday in the journal Lancet Infectious Diseases, put L.A. County near the top of a list of counties most likely to have someone come down with measles, second only to Cook County, Illinois. So far this year, 764 Americans have been diagnosed with measles, the highest number of cases in more than two decades. The historic surge is due to an increasing number of measles outbreaks abroad as well as falling vaccination rates locally, which allow cases brought from elsewhere to proliferate, experts say. Accordingly, researchers looked at vaccination rates in each county as well as the numbers of international travelers flying into each county from places experiencing major measles outbreaks, such as the Philippines and Ukraine. Thus far this year, according to the World Health Organization, 112,000 people have been diagnosed with measles outside the United States. Advertisement Rounding out the top five most at-risk U.S. counties were Miami-Dade in Florida, King in Washington and Queens in New York, which has along with Brooklyn been the epicenter of the nations biggest measles outbreak this year, with 466 cases, according to the citys health department. Californias San Mateo and San Diego counties also made the top 25. Though California has shored up its vaccination rates in recent years, the volume of travelers landing at LAX, San Francisco International Airport located in San Mateo County and San Diego International Airport makes the state vulnerable regardless, said Johns Hopkins civil engineering associate professor Lauren Gardner, who is an author of the paper. The places, in particular in California and also Cook County, which is where Chicago OHare is are really high on the list mainly because of the sheer volume of travelers, Gardner said. Its not just the fact that there are big airports, but those airports have a lot of incoming routes from countries having ongoing measles outbreaks. Indeed, this year alone, seven people with measles passed through Los Angeles International Airport, one through Long Beach Airport, and one through SFO, according to health officials. And so far, the researchers rankings have matched up with reality. Almost all 25 counties on the list have already reported a measles case or are next to counties that have reported cases. In Los Angeles County, there have been nine reported cases of measles this year. Measles began spreading here after people visited other countries with outbreaks, including Vietnam and Thailand. Those few cases probably did not expand into larger outbreaks, experts say, because of the states high vaccination rates. The study ranks counties by how vulnerable they are to having a single case of measles pop up. It does not predict the size of a potential outbreak. In 2015, after a major measles outbreak at Disneyland, California passed a law requiring all schoolchildren to be vaccinated unless they have a medical reason not to get their shots. The law has pushed up vaccination rates statewide. Statewide, 43 people have been diagnosed with measles this year so far, according to state numbers released Thursday. Most of those are people who contracted the disease abroad, officials say. The largest outbreak in the state has been limited to fewer than 20 people. An outbreak in San Francisco this year ended after only three people got sick. A Sacramento outbreak has also not spread beyond three people. California is somewhat protected because a low number of people in the state are exempt from vaccines, Gardner said. Still, the state, and L.A. County in particular, remain vulnerable, she said. You could have another little town with higher exemption rates, but theyre not as well-connected to the rest of the world and theyre actually going to be at lower risk than Los Angeles, she said. soumya.karlamangla@latimes.com Twitter: @skarlamangla Nearly two years ago, David Salazar arrived at the Los Angeles Community College District, ready to oversee a massive $3.3-billion construction bond program that voters had approved for the largest two-year college system in the nation. The new chief facilities executive was equipped with two masters degrees and three decades of experience managing building projects for the California State University, Claremont Graduate University and the San Bernardino Community College District. But nothing prepared him for what he said he found in the L.A. college district sloppy management, fierce backroom politics and entrenched relationships between board trustees and construction interests. After Salazar raised red flags about cost overruns earlier this year, drawing sharp criticism from some trustees, the L.A. districts chancellor, Francisco Rodriguez, gave him a notice of termination in March. Now Salazar has filed a whistleblower complaint with the district, alleging Rodriguez fired him in retaliation for publicly outing problems in the construction program, The Times has learned. Advertisement Salazar, who is currently on paid administrative leave, is asking for full reinstatement or $1.6 million to cover five years of pay and benefits. Francisco Rodriguez, chancellor of the Los Angeles Community College District. (Irfan Khan / Los Angeles Times) I believe that I was retaliated against for bringing to the forefront that the bond program had not been managed efficiently, nor in the best interests of the students we serve, Salazar told The Times. I was becoming a threat to too many people and they wanted me to be gone. His complaint alleges that Rodriguez, General Counsel Jeffrey Prieto and trustees Steven Veres, Gabriel Buelna and Andra Hoffman retaliated against him. The college district does not publicly respond to specific allegations in whistleblower complaints, spokesman William Boyer said in a statement. But he said that all complaints are treated with the utmost seriousness and are thoroughly reviewed. Any claims that are substantiated will be pursued accordingly. Boyer added that the district is a staunch custodian of taxpayer money entrusted to the district through its BuildLACCD capital improvement construction and bond programs. The district has taken numerous steps with appropriate reviews and checks to ensure all expenditures are accurate and within the limits of policies and contracts including the hiring of an independent bond monitor, Exiger. The L.A. college district, which educates 230,000 students on nine campuses, has been embroiled in controversy over its construction program in the past. In 2011, The Times documented massive financial waste, nepotism and mismanagement in several district projects funded with bond measures. Rodriguez has said that reforms launched since then, including the independent bond monitor, have prevented boondoggles from recurring. In his complaint, Salazar said the friction with some district officials and trustees began about November 2017, a few months into his tenure, over hiring for the multibillion-dollar construction bond program. Tensions deepened after district officials began to debate whether to change the way they staff and manage the program. Under the current model, the district awards contracts to multiple firms to manage construction work at each campus. An alternative model would have reduced the number of firms selected. Salazar originally proposed the alternative as more efficient. But he changed his mind and recommended staying with the status quo, which the board voted to do in December. Salazar said he changed his mind because he began to fear switching would cause disruption, squeeze out smaller firms and set the foundation for a pay-to-play scenario, with the potential for trustees to promise work to particular firms in exchange for campaign contributions. Veres disputed Salazars allegations. Salazar is making a criminal accusation and that is an absolute insult, he said in an email to The Times. The only promise I make is to protect the public trust. No individual trustee has the power to guarantee work to anyone, Veres added, because contracts must be approved by a majority of the seven-member Board of Trustees. In the vast majority of votes taken, he said, trustees adopt staff recommendations. Rodriguez cited fallout over the bond management debate for resulting in Salazars getting an unsatisfactory performance evaluation last year. He ranked Salazar satisfactory in nine of 12 categories, including accomplishments, job knowledge, problem solving, initiative and creativity, and said he had hit the ground running in his job. But Rodriguez said Salazars leadership, communication and judgment fell short, resulting in diminished confidence in him among trustees and an overall evaluation of unsatisfactory. In his complaint, Salazar also alleged that other actions riled some trustees and top administrators, leading to his termination. They included: His decision to commission a study on how campuses were using their space. The October 2018 study found that many classrooms, laboratories and offices on all of the campuses were unused much of the time to a greater degree than the statewide community college average. The study also found that the district was spending $4.36 million annually to maintain the unused space. The analysis concluded that the district did not need to build more facilities at the rate it had projected to justify voter approval of the Measure CC $3.3-billion dollar bond, the complaint said, meaning the taxpayers were misled. Then, in January, Salazar told trustees that the manager of the bond program, Jacobs Project Management Co., had overspent its first-year budget by $1.8 million. Jacobs was not required to adjust its spending until the fourth year of its five-year contract with the district, but Salazar said he wanted to head off any potential problems and asked Jacobs for a corrective action plan. In a letter to Rodriguez, Jacobs agreed that the calculation was accurate but said it had spent less than the district had approved. In his complaint, Salazar said a Times article in February about the overspending, excess campus space and other problems with the bond program cited in an independent audit provoked great anger and hostility towards me from the chancellor, some trustees and a Jacobs official. On March 4, Rodriguez gave Salazar a 60-day notice of termination, effective July 1. The district has asked its bond monitor to investigate the allegations. Salazar said he was concerned that the monitor, who reports to the chancellor and general counsel, would potentially be biased and has asked for an independent investigator. teresa.watanabe@latimes.com Twitter: @TeresaWatanabe A developer notched a victory Wednesday over business owners who had been seeking to block a homeless housing project next to their Boyle Heights shopping center. The owners of the landmark El Mercado had appealed the citys approval of the 49-unit apartment building for mentally ill homeless people, and then went to court after the L.A. City Council overturned their appeal. In a tentative ruling Wednesday, Superior Court Judge Richard L. Fruin Jr. said the owners failed to show substantial evidence for their claim that Los Angeles planners had improperly approved the proposal without a full environmental review. Words cannot express how thrilled we are and gratified by the judges tentative ruling, said Dora Leong Gallo, executive director of A Community of Friends, a nonprofit developer that has been working for years to develop the property. Advertisement The case was closely watched by proponents of affordable and homeless housing as a test of how a project funded by the citys $1.2-billion Proposition HHH homeless housing bond would fare against anticipated neighborhood opposition. In a multi-part ruling, Fruin rejected arguments from the developer and the city that the project, called Lorena Plaza, was not subject to challenge on environmental grounds and that the appeal was filed too late. But his 21-page ruling also refuted a litany of arguments made by attorneys for El Mercado. The judge said city planning officials had acted correctly in approving the housing project with a declaration, which acknowledged the environmental issues that could be mitigated during construction to the point there would be no substantial effects. The late Pedro Rosado, who built El Mercado into an Eastside institution, and his son Tony Rosado had appealed that decision, contending that the presence of an abandoned oil well on the property required a full environmental review. Fruin ruled that the oil well had been adequately addressed in environmental studies of the property on First Street just east of Evergreen Cemetery, and that any issues that arose during construction would be monitored by the appropriate state agencies. The judge also rejected the Rosados argument that the homeless housing project is inconsistent with the Boyle Heights Community Plan. A Community of Friends acquired exclusive rights to the property from the Metropolitan Transportation Authority, which obtained it during construction of the Eastside extension of the Gold Line. Councilman Jose Huizar, who was a board member of the transit agency, opposed the housing project in 2013 and continued to oppose it five years later before the Los Angeles Planning and Land Use Committee. Then, in a dramatic about-face in March 2018, Huizar led a City Council vote to deny the Rosados appeal. Huizar said he changed his mind after the developer offered changes that resolved his concerns. The developer committed to a state-monitored evaluation of any potential environmental issues and to comply with any recommendations. Fruin allowed both sides time to argue his tentative ruling and said he would issue a final decision in 15 days. doug.smith@latimes.com @LATDoug They seemed an unlikely pair of spies. The older man, Majid Ghorbani, worked at a posh Persian restaurant in Santa Anas South Coast Plaza Village. At 59, he wore a thick gray mustache and the weary expression of a man who had served up countless plates of rice and kebab. The younger man, Ahmadreza Mohammadi Doostdar, was a Long Beach native who held dual U.S.-Iranian citizenship. Round-faced and bespectacled, the 38-year-old answered to the Farsi nickname Topol, or Chubby. Yet even as the men sipped coffee at a Costa Mesa Starbucks, chatted outside an Irvine market, or made trips to Macys at South Coast Plaza, they were doggedly trailed by federal agents. Advertisement Despite the pairs disarming appearance, U.S. authorities allege they were operating in Orange County as agents of the Islamic Republic of Iran an accusation that has alarmed many in the local Persian community because it suggests tensions between the U.S. and Iran have spilled over into Southern California. The mens goal, authorities say, was to conduct surveillance on Israeli and Jewish facilities in the U.S., and to collect information on members of the Mujahedin Khalq, MEK, an Iranian exile group that has long sought to topple the regime in Tehran and enjoys newfound support among members of the Trump administration. Within the span of a year from the summer of 2017 to the spring of 2018 authorities say the men crisscrossed Orange County and the United States, videotaping participants at MEK rallies in New York and Washington, D.C., and photographing Jewish centers in Chicago. During that time, the men also flew back and forth between Iran and Los Angeles International Airport, and appeared to be assembling target packages dossiers that would enable an intelligence or military unit to find, fix, track and neutralize a threat, according to documents filed in Washington, D.C., federal court. In at least one instance, the pair were recorded by an FBI listening device as Ghorbani briefed Doostdar on a New York MEK event in September 2017, according to court documents. I took some pictures and collected some information of them and some senators that they are working with, the waiter said, according to court documents. I have prepared a package, but it is not complete. :: The target of the alleged spying, the MEK, is a shadowy organization with a militant past. Up until 2012, it was deemed a terrorist organization by the U.S. State Department. Although few Americans have heard of it, the group has vexed the Iranian government since the revolution of 1979, when members helped to overthrow the shah. Led by a husband-and-wife power couple Massoud and Maryam Rajavi the group was sheltered and armed by Saddam Hussein for nearly 20 years. Known for its female-led military units, the MEK was disarmed after the invasion of Iraq in 2003. Massoud Rajavi went missing that same year and is believed to be dead. Despite a long history of lobbying U.S. lawmakers and officials for support, few have taken the group seriously up until now, that is. President Trumps national security advisor, John Bolton, is not only a prominent hawk on Iran, he has championed the MEK. Rudolph W. Giuliani, Trumps lawyer, has also supported the group. The MEK in recent years has spent time and money building political capital, said Daniel Benjamin, director of Dartmouth Colleges Center for International Understanding. Bolton has been the MEKs most dedicated long marcher. Although the Trump administration has not explicitly stated that it seeks regime change in Iran, it has reimposed tough economic sanctions and pulled out of a 2015 nuclear deal. These actions, as well as new, cozier relations with the MEK, have apparently worried Iran enough to act against the group. In a case similar to the one in Orange County, two Iranians in Albania were arrested in March after allegedly surveilling the MEK. In July, an Iranian diplomat in Germany was arrested on suspicion of plotting to bomb a MEK rally in Paris. This is escalation of Iran attempting to attack us, said Alireza Jafarzadeh, the U.S. deputy director of the National Council of Resistance of Iran an MEK-linked organization. :: It is unclear how Ghorbani and Doostdar first came into contact, but investigators believe their first face-to-face meeting occurred behind Darya, the Persian restaurant where Ghorbani had worked for more than 20 years. Doostdar was born in Long Beach but left at a young age to move to Canada and then Iran. An energy tech consultant, Doostdar had visited the U.S. on only a few occasions, court documents say. His wife gave birth to a baby girl in late August and was hoping to bring her to the U.S. Ghorbani, whom neighbors and co-workers described as quiet and easygoing, was born in Iran but immigrated to the U.S. in 1995. He kept mostly to himself and lived with his brother and a Pomeranian dog in a quiet Costa Mesa apartment complex not far from the restaurant. A fellow employee, who spoke on the condition of anonymity because she wasnt authorized to speak on behalf of the restaurant, said Ghorbani was well-liked and generous. On one occasion, Ghorbani lent money to a co-worker who was struggling, the employee said. Investigators said Ghorbani also infiltrated meetings the MEK held at Darya. During one meetup in early August, Ghorbani met with MEK members as they discussed sending three American senators to evaluate the groups base in Albania, according to the indictment. Rene Redjaian, a spokeswoman for Darya, said the restaurant owners had no idea that Ghorbani was allegedly involved in spying. Our owners love America and knew nothing about the events that took place at Darya, Redjaian said. As time went on, the men continued their alleged covert operation, unaware that federal agents were closing in. In December 2017, Doostdar returned to Iran allegedly to hand over the intelligence Ghorbani had collected. Unbeknownst to him, FBI agents searched his checked luggage at LAX and found an orange and white CVS pharmacy envelope. Inside the envelope, FBI agents found photos of Ghorbani standing next to people who were at the New York City MEK rally from September 2017. Many of the photographs had names and positions of the individuals written on the back, including one photograph that had Dr. Ahmad Rajavi, the brother of Massoud, written on it, prosecutors said in court documents. In March 2018, Ghorbani traveled to Iran to conduct an in-person briefing about ways to take photos for an upcoming conference supported by the MEK, prosecutors allege. When he returned April 17, authorities found tucked in his luggage a list written in Farsi that detailed his future tasks, including deeper infiltration into the MEK and recruiting a second person, according to court documents. The pair never succeeded in allegedly recruiting another operative, however. On Aug. 9, FBI agents swarmed Darya restaurant and arrested Ghorbani in front of stunned co-workers. Doostdar was arrested the same day in Chicago. Both men have been accused of acting as agents of a foreign government without prior notification of the U.S. attorney general and with providing services to Iran in violation of U.S. sanctions. Both men have pleaded not guilty and remain in custody. Ghorbanis lawyer has declined to comment on the case. Doostdars attorney, Thomas Durkin, said hes suspicious about the timing of his clients arrest considering it comes on the heels of Trump reimposing sanctions against Iran. Theres political machinations going on between the Trump administration and Iran. Why did the government all of a sudden decide to arrest these people? he said. :: The arrests of Ghorbani and Doostdar have left many in Orange Countys Persian community shaken. There is a sense of fear in the Iranian community that the regime in Iran are sending people to USA and keeping track of movements, said Mike Kazemi, an Irvine immigration lawyer. For those in the Persian community who are against the Islamic Republic but also disagree with the Trump administrations policies toward Iran, the escalation in tensions has been disconcerting. They say it serves as a reminder of how both American and Iranian officials view members of the Iranian diaspora with suspicion. We are in the middle of two hard places, Kazemi said. Yet others in the community say they are refusing to allow geopolitics to interfere with their day-to-day lives. Nasrin Rahimieh, a professor of humanities at UC Irvine, said she understands how recent developments might cause some Persians to feel scared of being too visible. Throughout her career, Rahimieh said, she has been chastised for either appearing pro-Islamic Republic or anti-Islamic Republic. But those experiences have left Rahimieh emboldened to speak out against what she said is the fear-mongering rhetoric present in todays political environment. There is such rabid desire to show Iranians as bad actors and as bad agents that its had the opposite effect on me, Rahimieh said. To paint all Iranians with the same brush is something that needs to be protested. melissa.etehad@latimes.com Follow me on Twitter @melissaetehad The architect behind the Los Angeles Police Departments widely hailed but controversial data-driven crime-fighting tools is leaving the agency next week to help expand similar programs in other cities. Deputy Chief Sean Malinowski spent years pushing the LAPD to the forefront of how police agencies analyze data to target crime. His departure, though, comes amid the overhaul of a program he helped implement more than eight years ago to predict locations of property crimes after questions were raised about its effectiveness and whether black and Latino communities are unfairly targeted. A 25-year veteran, Malinowski said he plans to work part time at the University of Chicago and run his own company, which won a $635,000 contract in March with the Baltimore Police Department. Malinowski was one of a team of experts who helped the Chicago Police Department on crime issues. Under a $250-an-hour contract, Malinowski earned $223,750 between late 2016 and Feb. 9, 2018, in Chicago, the Chicago Sun-Times reported. LAPD policy doesnt specify how much a person can earn with a second job; it does limit the work to 30 hours a week. Malinowski was quoted in a story in Chicago saying he had used all his vacation time and days off to do the work. Advertisement After reaching 25 years at the LAPD, he could not perform the outside work and still serve Los Angeles, he said in an interview. His last day is May 16, according to a disclosure filed at the citys Ethics Commission. The LAPD has given me lots of opportunities, said Malinowski, who spearheaded predictive technologies under former Chiefs William J. Bratton and Charlie Beck. Im interested in doing things in other cities. I believe in what I do. Last July, newly appointed Police Chief Michel Moore picked Malinowski, 54, to be the chief of detectives. He has also led the weekly Compstat meetings at which station captains are grilled by higher-ups about how to reduce crime. The department, he said, has a deep bench of leaders committed to using data to make Los Angeles safer. Some of Malinowskis earlier posts included commanding officer of the Special Olympics World Games in 2015 and leading the Foothill Division and Real-Time Analysis and Critical Response Division. The former Fulbright scholar holds a doctorate from the University of Illinois. In recent years, he earned a reputation for teaching other cities how to decrease crime through data analysis. In 2017, he created a company called Strategic Focus to provide strategic planning and technical assistance, according to a filing with the California secretary of states office. Police leaders in Chicago and Baltimore both notorious for gun violence sought his help to establish high-tech centers that allow police and civilian analysts to monitor gunshot detectors, surveillance cameras and use other data to determine where crimes occur. His services in Baltimore include daily, weekly and monthly crime briefings, according to records. Five others will work for him in Baltimore, he said. In a statement Monday, Chicago Police Department Supt. Eddie T. Johnson said the city faced formidable public safety challenges in 2016 when Malinowski was brought on. With the help of Malinowski and others, data-driven strategies have reduced crime and created a culture of accountability for those who recklessly engage in gun violence, he said. Still, the Los Angeles Police Commission, the departments civilian oversight panel, and dozens of UCLA academics raised concerns last month after a recent inspector general audit couldnt determine whether the LAPDs signature predictive policing program reduced crime. The tool, called PredPol, examines 10 years of crime data and uses an algorithm to predict when and where crimes are most likely to occur, focusing police presence in hot spots. In March, the inspector general found discrepancies with the data collection and could not meaningfully evaluate the programs overall effectiveness to reduce crime, the report said. The inspector general also said the programs lacked oversight. Moore is expected to announce changes to the program in August. Critics contend the program results in heavier policing of black and Latino communities. The department has said the algorithm does not consider race or gender in calculations. Malinowski defended the program, saying that every person draws different conclusions from data and that decreasing rates of property crimes prove the program works. Through mid-April, citywide property crimes were down 8% compared with 2018 and down 10% from 2017, records show. The department, Malinowski acknowledged, made missteps by not keeping the public informed. We should have had community meetings to explain what were doing in great depth, he said from Chicago. Its not as scary as people think. Times researcher Cary Schneider and staff writer Cindy Chang contributed to this report. The plan was to deliver middle-class amenities Target, a Ralphs supermarket, sit-down restaurants like Chilis to a section of Los Angeles that had long suffered from under-investment. The proposed shopping center known as District Square would be a great catalyst in the center of the city, revitalizing Crenshaw Boulevard and showing what was possible in disadvantaged neighborhoods, backers said. Councilman Herb Wesson embraced the project, championing a lucrative package of loans and grants to get it built. We have to bring in the best of the best, Wesson said in 2010, the year the shopping center was approved. Advertisement Nearly a decade later, the District Square site sits vacant, a symbol of promises made and later abandoned. None of the 600 jobs have materialized. The project has $6.3 million in federal loans that are in default, according to the citys Economic Workforce Development Department. And Arman Gabay, the Beverly Hills businessman who proposed the project, has been charged with bribery in a case involving county leases. He has pleaded not guilty. Wesson, now council president, repeatedly went to bat for District Square, even as the developers and their companies donated to his campaigns, his causes and his political allies. He worked to shore up the project as others at City Hall raised alarms. At one point, he had an aide working on the project who happened to be Gabays brother-in-law. Wesson later said he was unaware of the connection at the time. Still, after years of rescue attempts, Wesson signaled in recent weeks that he has lost patience. The developer should get out of the way, so the city or another developer can deliver a mixed-use project the community wants and expects, his spokesman said in an email. Gabay, who has also gone by the name Gabaee, declined to comment. His brother and longtime business partner, Mark Gabay, did not respond to inquiries. In an email to Wessons office last year, a consultant for the developers said they are pushing ahead with a dramatically reworked project, now seven stories instead of two, after years of broken promises. Let me state for the record, there has never been any intention to deceive, delay or misrepresent to your office or to the community our development plans and timing for the District Square development, the consultant wrote in June 2018. Seven default notices For much of its history, District Square was the subject of a behind-the-scenes tug-of-war between Wesson, who represents the area, and Jan Perry, who until December ran the agency that issued the city loans for the project, according to correspondence obtained by The Times. Perrys agency sent District Square seven default notices between 2015 and 2018, repeatedly pointing out that the developers had failed to build the shopping center. Wesson, on the other hand, searched for funds as the developers fell behind on their obligations. The two political veterans, adversaries for nearly a decade, are now running against each other for a seat on the county Board of Supervisors. Perry, a former city councilwoman, said she pushed for the city to foreclose on District Square and seize the site, only to have those efforts opposed by aides to Wesson and Mayor Eric Garcetti. I never wavered, she said. But I was not the ultimate decision maker in this process. Los Angeles City Council President Herb Wesson championed $26 million in financial help for District Square, a planned shopping center. Nine years later, with $6.3 million of that money spent, city officials are still trying to get something built on the site. (Irfan Khan / Los Angeles Times) Wesson disputed Perrys assertions, saying she never met with his staff to discuss the issue. He acknowledged his various efforts to salvage the project, saying its not been easy bringing new development to the Crenshaw area. When you invest so much time, youd like to see a result, he told The Times last year. Garcetti aides defended their handling of the project, saying any move to foreclose could have led to a drawn-out legal battle. The better strategy, they said, is the one they have been pursuing: working with the developers on a redesigned project that offers 573 apartments and a reduced amount of retail space. Once the planning department gives its approval, a decision expected by the end of the month, District Square should have no trouble attracting investors and clearing up its financial issues, said Steve Andrews, an economic development aide to the mayor. The market will deliver something to this site, he said. Sources: Google Earth, Nextzen, OpenStreetMap (Kyle Kim / Los Angeles Times) One neighbor said the citys push to build District Square made things worse. With taxpayer money, the developers razed a Ralphs supermarket without providing a replacement. Now its just an empty field, said Lori Higgins, who lives nearby. A lucrative deal Gabay has long been active in L.A. politics. He, his relatives and his familys companies have given more than $160,000 to city candidates, officeholder accounts and ballot measure campaigns since District Square was first proposed in 2007, according to fundraising reports. Gabays plan for District Square called for the demolition of a shopping center that housed the Ralphs, a dry cleaner and other businesses. Under the proposal, it would be replaced with a structure three times larger at Crenshaw and Rodeo Road now Obama Boulevard. Wesson and his colleagues approved the project in 2010, providing $26.2 million in federal grants and loans. The developers also received permission to repay their loans using tax revenue generated by the new shopping center money that would otherwise flow to city coffers, according to a city analysis. Source: Times reporting (Kyle Kim / Los Angeles Times Graphics) The developers tapped only a portion of their federal loans, acquiring the site and moving out the existing businesses. Yet soon they asked for more help. Wesson responded in 2012 with a plan for lending District Square an additional $6 million. The 30-month float loan would keep the project on track, he said, while the developers locked down their private financing. Instead, things got worse. Target dropped out. District Square did not qualify for the tax credits needed to finance the project. Troubled by the lack of progress, Perrys agency sent its first default notice in January 2015, pointing out the developers had missed their deadline for starting construction. The city believes this breach is not curable, Perry wrote. Perry had been at odds with the Gabays before. While she was on the council, one of their companies sued the city over a redevelopment project in her South L.A. district. The Gabay brothers had friendlier relations with others at City Hall. In the two years leading up to their projects first default notice, the Gabay family and one of their companies, Excel Property Management, donated nearly $55,000 to city office holders, campaigns and political causes nearly half of it to Wessons unsuccessful push to hike the citys sales tax. Weeks after the first default notice arrived, Excel donated $25,000 to a 2015 ballot campaign, also backed by Wesson, to move city elections to even-numbered years. The company also gave $10,000 to a committee backing the re-election of Councilman Jose Huizar, a close Wesson ally. During the campaign, Wesson had described Huizar as his best friend on the council. Edward Johnson, Wessons spokesman, said his boss did not ask Excel to give to the pro-Huizar committee. Wesson cannot recall whether he asked Excel to donate to the ballot campaigns, Johnson said. The aide said donations from the Gabays and their companies had no influence on the citys handling of District Square. Huizar won re-election and voters approved the change in election dates. Three months later, Perrys agency sent another default notice, saying District Squares float loan had come due. Former Los Angeles City Councilwoman Jan Perry in 2013, the year she was hired to run the citys Economic Workforce Development Department. Between 2015 and 2018, her agency sent seven default notices to the developers of District Square. (Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times) With the deadline looming, Wessons team focused on a possible lifeline: an $8-million loan from the city fund that collects parking meter revenue. An in-law steps in The official who worked on the proposed parking loan was Jordan Beroukhim, a Wesson aide who happened to be Arman Gabays brother-in-law. In June 2015, Beroukhim sought to have the proposal bypass the councils transportation committee, which vets the use of such funds, according to emails obtained by The Times. Such a maneuver would have sent the proposal directly to the council for an up-or-down vote. But Beroukhim encountered an obstacle in Ellen Isaacs, then a staffer with Councilman Mike Bonin, who heads the committee. Isaacs told Beroukhim she was concerned with the lack of analysis on the need for the loan. It just feels like a more substantive conversation is warranted, she wrote, adding minutes later: Is there a particular rush on this matter? This project was approved in 2010, Beroukhim responded. We have been sitting on it for 5 years. The loan proposal was eventually scrapped. Wesson later told The Times he wasnt aware at the time that Beroukhim had a familial connection to Gabay. Once an aide learned of it, Berkoukhim was moved off of District Square out of an abundance of caution, Wesson said. Beroukhim, contacted by The Times, referred questions to Wessons spokesman, who declined to answer on his behalf. Another lifeline Wesson soon took another stab at rescuing the project. In a July 2015 letter, he asked a staffer in Perrys agency to delay default proceedings until the city had a new plan for closing the projects financial gap. The developers also asked for more time, saying they had attracted Home Depot and needed to rework the project. Perry refused, saying in a letter that her staff had discussed repayment with the developers numerous times. Wesson landed on a solution: the city would pay off the loans $2.1-million balance by tapping federal funds that were not immediately needed for another project. The city would execute a new float loan worth the same amount for District Square, restarting the 30-month clock. The solution was offered on the council floor in October 2015 and approved the same day. Before long, District Square was in trouble again. Federal officials informed the city in July 2016 that $1.9 million in funding for District Square money given to shovel-ready projects that could pull the nation out of the 2008 recession needed to be repaid. The shopping center, which was supposed to open that year, had not been built. Perry sent two more default notices. The developers, through their attorney, fired back with a letter blaming Metro, which had begun building a $2-billion light rail line on Crenshaw. Construction barriers had made it difficult to attract tenants, the lawyer wrote. Although the developers could have demanded compensation from Metro, they had decided to be a good corporate citizen, he said. Developers of the District Square project informed the city in 2016 that construction of a light rail line on Crenshaw Boulevard had made it difficult for them to attract tenants to their project. (Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times) Months later, Gabay agreed to repay the Obama-era recovery funds and submit new plans for District Square. The redesigned project would be primarily residential, but also offer a Smart & Final and a Ross Dress For Less. This is definitely good news, wrote Andrews, the Garcetti aide, in a May 2017 email. A major project at a Crenshaw line station is ready to move forward! The euphoria was short lived. Optics and audits Three months later, Garcettis aide was informed that the Gabay brothers were at odds, according to correspondence obtained by The Times. Work on the permits had stopped and the deadline for the second 30-month loan was approaching. Officials were no longer sure the new project, with much less retail space, would deliver the 600 jobs required under the original loan package. In an email to a Wesson aide, Andrews worried about damaging audits and the optics of having one company receive so much federal money while failing to produce. And now that they have filed for a project that will NEVER create the required jobs it will be even more embarrassing to leave all the public funds in place, he wrote. In February 2018, Perry sent District Square three more default notices. Three months later, Gabay was arrested on suspicion of bribery. Prosecutors accused him of making illegal payments to a Los Angeles County bureaucrat in exchange for a government lease. Gabay filed the application for the reworked District Square last summer and, weeks later, entered a not guilty plea. He turned in more paperwork in January. Despite all the setbacks, Andrews remains optimistic. The developers have a vacant site and a new set of plans, the Garcetti aide said. Within weeks, city planners should render their decision on the new project. Those are huge steps, he said, in making a project ready to go. As part of their plan for building District Square, the developers demolished an existing shopping center that housed a supermarket, dry cleaner and other neighborhood businesses. (Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times) Art Kunkin, the rumpled, curly-haired publisher who arose as the pied piper of L.A.s counterculture movement in the 1960s with the irreverent but vital Los Angeles Free Press, has died in hospice care in Joshua Tree. Kunkin, who offered readers a brew of politics, drug talk and rock n roll, died April 30 at the Institute of Mentalphysics, where hed lived for years studying philosophy, alchemy and meditation. He was 91. No cause of death was given. The Free Press known as the Freep to those who loved or loathed it rolled onto the streets as L.A. was barreling toward the Watts riots, a tabloid that covered the antiwar movement, the emerging hippie scene and the free speech rallies at UCLA and Berkeley. It was derisive, profane yet sweetly life-affirming. Inspired by the Village Voice in Greenwich Village and the listener-sponsored radio station KPFK-FM in Hollywood, the Free Press was all things the Los Angeles Times was not. Advertisement Kunkin said the mainstream media tended to cover all the events plaguing L.A. as isolated, unconnected events. The Free Press viewed the growing unease in the city as something larger and far more sinister. The sense of the 1960s alternative press was that these issues were all connected, that indicated a certain sickness in society, Kunkin told The Times in 1996. A 1967 file photo of Art Kunkin. (File photo) Launched in 1965, the Free Press was run out the Fifth Estate coffeehouse on Sunset Boulevard. The working environment was familial reporters, aging beatniks, children, street musicians and the lost and confused milled about in what passed for a newsroom. The late author Harlan Ellison, then a reporter for the Free Press, said in a 1996 interview that the tabloid seemed to function like a rambunctious baby with a shotgun in its mouth; it didnt know when to shoot. And that, perhaps, is what upended the papers run as the citys edgy counterweight to the button-down stiffness of L.A.s traditional media. For reasons that were never abundantly clear, in the summer of 1969 as Charles Mansons followers were terrorizing the city and Neil Armstrong was stepping onto the moon Kunkin published the names, phone numbers and addresses of 80 narcotics officers in California. There Should Be No Secret Police, the headline blared. The reaction was explosive. Kunkin was sued by the state and Los Angeles. After two years of legal skirmishes, he was ordered to pay $53,000 in damages, enough to bankrupt the paper. The Free Press limped along for several years before shutting its doors in the late 70s. Born in the Bronx in 1928, Kunkin became a tool and die maker. Politically active, he became an organizer for the Socialist Workers Party and later worked for the partys paper, the Militant. He came west in the 1950s, continuing to work on an assembly line. In 1964, he was asked to publish an eight-page newsletter for the Renaissance Pleasure Faire in L.A. Kunkin filled it with strange and fantastical stories Joan Baezs supposed tax strike, an obscenity bust during a showing of the film Scorpio Rising. The first issue of the Los Angeles Free Press was printed in July 1964. Along with his wife, Abby Rubinstein, Kunkin put up $200 to bankroll the paper, money spent mostly on postage to solicit advertisers. The couple edited the paper at their dining room table, writing headlines, cropping photos, keeping their fingers crossed it would all somehow work. The paper sold for a quarter, nearly double what The Times cost at a newsstand. The lifeblood of the Free Press were sex ads, which were unwelcome in traditional family newspapers. By 1969, circulation had swelled to 100,000 and the paper had growing political clout. Los Angeles Free Press cover archive in honor of the late Art Kunkin: (https://t.co/o8RN9owaYU): https://t.co/d3RhT9wIRs pic.twitter.com/Mlc2cIBHkZ Matt Haber (@Matthaber) May 8, 2019 The Free Press turned Kunkin into a high priest of resistance in L.A. He swapped story ideas with Yippies founder and satirist Paul Krassner, discussed music with Frank Zappa and hung out with Timothy Leary. In 1973, with his legal bills due, Kunkin closed the Free Press. It was revived briefly after it was purchased by Hustler publisher Larry Flynt and then shut for good when Flynt was shot in 1978. For a while, Kunkin taught journalism at Cal State Northridge and then became involved with several efforts to revive the Free Press. None lasted. Finally he faded away, heading off to Salt Lake City where he studied alchemy at the Paracelsus Research Society for seven years. He moved to the Joshua Tree compound after returning to California. Lionel Rolfe, the late Herald Examiner columnist and author, said he first met Kunkin in the 1960s at the Sunset Boulevard coffeehouse. Rolfe wrote in a blog that his old friend remained as spirited and bohemian as ever at the desert institute, living in a trailer surrounded by a mountain of books and records. Those days are forever gone, Rolfe wrote of the Free Press days. Now Art reads The Times, mainly the obituaries to see which of his old Marxist comrades has died. Kunkins first two marriages ended in divorce. A third wife, Elaine Wallace, died in 2017. He is survived by two daughters, Anna and April Fountain. Verlon Jose had long vowed President Trump would build a wall along his tribes 75-mile border with Mexico only over my dead body. But late last month, the Tohono Oodham Nations vice chairman stood at the border and praised a planned wall meant to deter migrants, smugglers and, according to the tribe, federal agents from disturbing its lands. The wall he described was not physical, but virtual : 10 towers up to 140 feet tall, with radar and night vision cameras capable of surveying over several miles and streaming footage around the clock to the Border Patrol. The idea is to reduce the footprint of these guys running around, tearing up our land, Jose said of agents patrolling the reservation. The integrated fixed towers, or IFTs, as the Border Patrol calls them, were approved in March by a unanimous vote of the tribes legislative council, many of them older tribal members. But some younger members oppose the towers, fearing that their elders have sacrificed hard-won sovereignty. Were going to inherit this problem, said Amy Juan, 33. And they worry that instead of reducing the Border Patrols presence, which has grown in their lifetimes, compromising on the virtual wall will lead to more surveillance and physical barriers. The agency has said as much. A spokesman said the Border Patrol had no plans to decrease the number of agents patrolling the reservation after the towers were built. He also said the towers did not eliminate the need for a border wall . But tribal leaders believe the towers could have that effect. "It is our hope the IFTs will decrease the flow of illegal trafficking and thus the need for such a large Border Patrol presence on the nation, said tribal Chairman Edward Manuel. He emphasized that his people remained firmly against a wall. The nation will never support a fortified wall on the border, which would divide our people, devastate the environment and destroy sacred sites, all while failing to halt the flow of migrants and smugglers, he said. The Tohono Oodham Nation reservation once stretched 350 miles from Phoenix to Hermosillo, Mexico. But Mexico never recognized the tribes claims to land. The reservation the U.S. government created in 1917 now covers 2.8 million acres. Half of the tribes 34,000 members live on the reservation, which has its own language, schools, police and a government comprising 11 legislative districts. Two are on the border where the towers will be built: Chukut Kuk to the east, Jose and Juans ancestral home, and Gu Vo to the west. The border here is an expansive basin between mountains the tribe considers sacred. To the east looms the 8,000-foot granite Baboquivari Peak the name means "neck between two heads" in the Tohono Oodham language, and tribal members believe the mountain to be the spiritual home of their creator, litoi. It can take the nations 87 tribal police several hours to respond to 911 calls often related to drug and human smuggling in remote border villages. Some of these ranchers are getting broken into constantly, said tribal Police Chief Elton Begay. Tribal police spend more than half their time assisting federal agents and doing other border-related enforcement, Begay said, and the nation spends $3 million annually on border security. Hundreds of Border Patrol agents and a federally funded team of more than a dozen Native American smuggling trackers called Shadow Wolves patrol the border and reservation. Tribal leaders previously allowed the Border Patrol to install cameras, sensors and portable towers and to build two small, remote bases that it staffs around the clock. Other agents patrol from larger stations and checkpoints on the reservations outskirts. A Border Patrol agent uses a motorcycle to work a stretch of the U.S.-Mexico border in the Tohono O'odham Nation. (Luis Sinco / Los Angeles Times) Border Patrol agents transfel migrants apprehended on the Tohono O'odham Nation for transport to a facility in nearby Tucson. (Luis Sinco / Los Angeles Times) A vehicle barrier cuts across a dry wash along the U.S.-Mexico border in the Tohono O'odham Nation in Arizona. (Luis Sinco / Los Angeles Times) Border Patrol agents look for surveyors markers that show the future location of a surveillance tower in the sprawling Tohono O'odham Nation. (Luis Sinco / Los Angeles Times) Clockwise from top left, a Border Patrol agent on a motorbike searches for migrants on the Tohono O'odham Nation; Border Patrol agents with migrants apprehended on the reservation; agents look for markers showing where surveillance towers will be installed; a vehicle barrier at the border. (Luis Sinco / Los Angeles Times) Last month, Border Patrol agents hopped on motorbikes at the foot of the Baboquivari range to chase migrants before they climbed beyond reach. Smugglers have recently shifted to the remote mountain routes, said agency spokesman Dan Hernandez. Nearby trails through desert grasslands were littered with the remnants of campfires and migrants black water jugs, the color intended to camouflage them in the brush. Later the same day, agents used a helicopter to track 16 migrants who had fanned out across a steep mountainside. The agency has tried for nearly a decade to install towers on the reservation so it can catch smugglers before they reach the mountains, said Hernandez. But residents protested and wrote to tribal leaders, worried the towers would disturb the land. Border Patrol contractors had previously disturbed human remains and damaged saguaro cacti, sacred to the Tohono Oodham. But the Border Patrol continued trying to sway the tribe. Two years ago, the agency released a study that said tower construction wouldnt cause archaeological, environmental or community harm. It held community forums and took tribal members on field trips to inspect smaller tower systems near the reservation. It decreased the number of proposed towers in Gu Vo district and redesigned the towers bases so they didnt extend underground. Border Patrol officials also promised to improve rutted dirt roads leading to the towers and said they would consider adding hardware that would boost cellphone and police radio reception. The greatest camera in the world still makes zero arrests. It cant apprehend somebody. Dan Hernandez, Border Patrol spokesman Drivers stop at a Border Patrol checkpoint on Arizona State Route 86 to the east of the Tohono O'odham Nation in southern Arizona. Luis Sinco / Los Angeles Times During a visit to the border last week, Jose pointed out waist-high fencing. Instead of building tall, impenetrable barriers, as it has in other areas, Border Patrol compromised and erected a vehicle barrier that allows animals such as coyotes, jaguar and javelina hogs to migrate. The land at the border is part of a 60-foot-wide federal easement from the Pacific Ocean to the Rio Grande. Though the easement ensures access, the Border Patrol has negotiated with the Tohono Oodham Nation over road use and fencing. Jose described the newly approved towers, which would be north of the easement, as a similar compromise placating the federal government in hopes it will not build a physical wall. Were only as sovereign as the federal government will allow us to be, Jose said. As the Border Patrol presence on the reservation has grown over the years, tribal members have complained of harassment, including what they call unnecessary stops and questioning. Ranchers have to close gates and repair fences that agents cut. Roads erode after frequent Border Patrol use. Tribal leaders said decreasing agents traffic on the reservation is one of the reasons they agreed to the towers. Jose said he wants agents to stick to the border. But tower critics are also concerned about surveillance. During a tour of one of the proposed tower sites last week, Hernandez said the agency does not plan to pull agents from the reservation once the fixed towers are built. Nor does Border Patrol plan to reduce the hidden cameras, sensors and truck-mounted temporary towers already on the reservation. And, he said, theres still the need for an enhanced border barrier. The greatest camera in the world still makes zero arrests. It cant apprehend somebody, Hernandez said. We still need some infrastructure there, the fence or barrier, to slow them down and the agents to make the apprehensions. Supervisory Border Patrol Agent Rafael Castillo, a former Tohono Oodham police officer who now serves as a tribal liaison, said the towers will allow the agency to see what weve never seen before and compared it to turning on a light in a dark room. We all have that same end goal: to protect the nation, its sovereignty and way of life, he said. The day the tribes leaders voted to approve the towers, many Tohono Oodham were attending an annual tribal run across the border. About a dozen people went to the council meeting, some of whom live on the border and spoke in favor of the towers; others spoke against them, including David Garcia, who urged the leaders to reconsider. He doesnt believe the Border Patrol will stop at the towers. Its just a matter of time before other negotiations come into play, Garcia said. A surveyors marker shows the future location of a Border Patrol surveillance tower in the Tohono O'odham Nation along the U.S.-Mexico border in Arizona. (Luis Sinco / Los Angeles Times) A Border Patrol helicopter flies over the Tohono O'odham Nation, which straddles the U.S.-Mexico border in Arizona. (Luis Sinco / Los Angeles Times) Left, a surveyor's marker shows the future location of a Border Patrol surveillance tower in the Tohono O'odham Nation. Right, a Border Patrol helicopter. (Luis Sinco / Los Angeles Times) The towers could be installed as soon as October, Hernandez said. The Border Patrol has a $145-million contract with Elbit Systems of America, the Fort Worth-based subsidiary of an Israeli company that manufacture towers used in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank. Juan and other tribal activists traveled to Israel two years ago to see the Elbit towers; they heard Palestinians concerns and still worry about their effect, even though the Border Patrols study said that any adverse effects on human health would be negligible. Juan said she knows the importance of border security: Her grandfather was a U.S. customs agent shot and killed in 1986 as he attempted to intercept three drug smugglers fleeing across the reservation to Mexico. A decade later, her other grandfather was robbed at night by a smuggler who entered his bedroom and tried to shoot him through his pillow narrowly missing his head. Juan said that now that the towers have been approved, she hopes the Tohono Oodham will mobilize to monitor their impact: whether sacred sites and wildlife are disturbed, what sort of sounds or radiation the towers emit and any changes in nearby residents health. We all have that same end goal: to protect the nation, its sovereignty and way of life. Rafael Castillo, Supervisory Border Patrol agent Verlon Jose, center, vice chairman of the Tohono O'odham Nation, talks to a tribal member who was attempting to cross north for medical treatment at tribal facilities using a gate in the reservation's border barrier late last month. (Luis Sinco/Los Angeles Times) Late last month, she urged community college students on the reservation to help. Speaking to a class in an indigenous borderlands program, she explained where the towers are planned and asked how many of the 20 students have family living on the border. Several raised their hands. The whole border area is going to change, she said. Arizona ranchers who supported Trump wall now have doubts about border plans As she spoke, across the reservation, tribal leaders were meeting contractors hoping to build roads to the towers. While the presidents office has had since the nations founding day to earn its fan base, Smokey Bear has only been around for a fraction of that time. But its a rather large fraction. Good morning, and welcome to the Essential California newsletter. Its Thursday, May 9, and Im writing from Los Angeles. What if your name could be added to a secretive state database labeling you a gang member, and you had little idea of how it got there? And even less recourse for removing it? This is reality for some of the nearly 90,000 individuals whose names are in CalGang, a database used by law enforcement agencies across California. To those agencies, it is an essential tool for policing; social justice advocates counter that its a prime tool for racial profiling and say the opaque processes for adding and removing names may infringe on civil rights. But big changes may be ahead. After a state audit in 2016 found that CalGang was rife with errors and unsubstantiated entries, the Legislature handed oversight of the database to then state Atty. Gen. Kamala Harris. Now her successor Xavier Becerra is responsible for crafting new rules about who can be labeled a gang member in California, and what evidence is needed. Advertisement Ahead of the release of those rules, I spoke with Sacramento-based reporter Anita Chabria, who has a big story out in todays paper about the future of CalGang. Chabria, who covers criminal justice and social issues, tells us about the history of the database, its issues, and why all of it matters. CalGang grew out of something developed by the L.A. County Sheriffs Department in the late 1980s. How did it evolve into the statewide database we know today? Los Angeles in the 1980s was seeing the first of its large-scale problems with gangs, especially around crack cocaine. So, it became a very big priority for law enforcement in the area to try to get a handle on who was involved in that criminal activity and what it meant. There was a well-known gang detective by the name of Wes McBride out of the sheriffs office. He had come up with a very old-school system for tracking gang members, where he was using punch cards. One day, he was looking at a DMV screen and it occurred to him that he could have something like that, where he could search all these different fields. He started what was the precursor to CalGang at the sheriffs office. They were eventually able to expand it into a system that other agencies could access and add to, and that eventually became CalGang. How did the state end up taking control of it? Assemblywoman Shirley Weber passed legislation in 2017 that took the database away from this self-elected board whod been running it and gave oversight to the attorney generals office with a mandate to clean it up and regulate it. The AG took over in 2018, and the first thing they did, as they were required to by the legislation, was to put a moratorium on entering anyone into the database for a couple months. Part of getting it back on track involved convening an advisory panel that was supposed to be half law enforcement and half social justice advocates to come up with a new set of regulations for how names get added. But that panel deadlocked after a year. Whatever comes out next will be the attorney generals take on what constitutes a gang member, and how we should go forward. Why have gang databases been called a tool for racial profiling? Because more than 90% of the people in the database are people of color. Its mostly Latino and black men. The question that has dogged CalGang forever is where does public safety end and racial profiling begin? Where is that line? Thats ultimately what much of this is about. And when youre in an urban neighborhood where police suspect that gangs are committing a lot of the crime, there has never been a good or easy answer for that. There is a constant tension, and what people will tell you is this then becomes an issue of poverty and equity and equality. Though he is not a gang member, Brian Allens name is in the CalGang database. In 2017, he was driving with a friend when police pulled him over. Later, Allen received a letter informing him hed been identified as a gang associate for being seen by police with this friend. (Luis Sinco / Los Angeles Times) Has Becerra done anything to signal his point of view? He has largely been publicly silent when it comes to conversations about criminal justice reform in the state. There is some nervousness on the part of social justice advocates that he will skew toward law enforcement when it comes to creating these regulations. Will these new regulations have a substantial effect on how people are policed around the state? Absolutely, it will have an effect on who can go in this database. Supposedly, this database does not impact those in it. But when someones pulled over, if police can see if theyre in CalGang, thats probably going to change the interaction. Tightening the rules around who is in the database will affect how police officers and people in the community interact with one another. Its one of those reforms thats not a high-profile reform, but it will likely have more day-to-day impact than even something like Proposition 47 or 57, in the sense that this is how police are interacting with people in the community. (Read Is there a way to identify gang members without racial bias? California wants an answer by Anita Chabria.) And now, heres whats happening across California: TOP STORIES Ride-hail drivers went on strike in cities around the country to protest pay rates and working conditions, two days ahead of Ubers massive planned IPO. Los Angeles Times In San Francisco, drivers shut down Market Street with a rally outside of Uber headquarters. San Francisco Chronicle USCs social work school may be forced to lay off nearly half its staff amid revelations of severe budget problems that began under former dean Marilyn Flynn. Los Angeles Times Six months after the Paradise fire, officials are still trying to identify some of the victims. San Francisco Chronicle Get the Essential California newsletter L.A. STORIES Before Nipsey Hussle was gunned down, he was working to bring economic development to his neighborhood, but on his own terms. He wanted more for his community, but he wanted the changes to be driven from within. Angel Jennings looks at his larger vision for South L.A. and black neighborhoods across country. Los Angeles Times Nine tips for riding the L.A. Metro system like a pro, from how to load your TAP card to the best apps. Curbed LA In L.A.s Carthay Circle, residents worry that Senate Bill 50 could ruin the integrity of their neighborhood. Los Angeles Times (Quick refresher: Senate Bill 50 is a measure being considered by the California Legislature that would increase housing density around transit, among other things. The high-profile bill which has already generated countless think pieces will either save or destroy California, depending upon whom you ask. And yes, youre probably going to be hearing about it for a while.) More than 1,000 guns were seized from a Bel-Air mansion during a raid by federal agents. Los Angeles Times Your support helps us deliver the news that matters most. Subscribe to the Los Angeles Times. POLITICS AND GOVERNMENT Sen. Kamala Harris, a Democratic presidential candidate, speaks in Las Vegas on April 27. (Ethan Miller / Getty Images) Kamala Harris started her 2020 campaign strong, but she is now fading. Can a new focus on Trump help? New York Times Plus: Why isnt Harris getting her Vanity Fair cover? New York Times Will Trump appear on the 2020 California ballot? A columnist examines a California bill directed at Trump that would require presidential candidates to release their tax returns to get on the states ballot in 2020. San Diego Union-Tribune San Clemente Mayor Steven Swartz, who was in his first term on the City Council, died Wednesday at age 74. Orange County Register Changes to the states health and sex education curriculum are coming. Despite protests, the California Department of Education unanimously approved new lessons for elementary schoolers about sex trafficking, sexual orientation and how to support transgender students. Sacramento Bee CRIME AND COURTS Actress Lori Loughlin has been slammed in the court of public opinion. But she is still looking to fight college admissions charges. Los Angeles Times San Franciscos city attorney is investigating whether a doctor who champions alternative medicine techniques has been illegally excusing children from mandatory vaccinations. Los Angeles Times THE ENVIRONMENT Drone footage shows Paradise today, where so much destruction from the fire is still visible. Sacramento Bee Heres a guide to some of Yosemites lesser-known waterfalls. In a park that encompasses nearly 1,200 square miles, theres plenty of hidden wonder to be found. Fresno Bee CALIFORNIA CULTURE After hyping a $1-billion Star Wars land, how does Disneyland get visitors to leave? Los Angeles Times BoJack Horseman co-creators Lisa Hanawalt and Raphael Bob-Waksberg have been friends since high school. This profile looks at their unique partnership-friendship over the years. With the launch of their new Netflix show, Tuca & Bertie, Hanawalt becomes the first female showrunner of an adult animated series in nearly a decade. California Sunday Magazine Plus: A look at the craziest pastries from Tuca & Bertie. Los Angeles Times A world-famous chef was stopped as he brought 40 piranhas through LAX. Los Angeles Times CALIFORNIA ALMANAC Los Angeles: cloudy, 68. San Diego: cloudy, 67. San Francisco: sunny, 64. San Jose: sunny, 73. Sacramento: sunny, 81. More weather is here. AND FINALLY Todays California memory comes from Dan Warthman: In the Army in the mid-1960s, my best friend Jerry was from L.A., and he talked excitedly about the wonders of California. I tried to match him with sketches about my own home: Erie, Pa. He laughed. When I finally visited Jerry, he had a plum tree in his backyard. A plum tree! In his yard! And when I showered at his house, I was certain the water smelled like plums. Thats how I think of California smelling like plums. If you have a memory or story about the Golden State, share it with us. (Please keep your story to 100 words.) Please let us know what we can do to make this newsletter more useful to you. Send comments, complaints, ideas and unrelated book recommendations to Julia Wick. Follow her on Twitter @Sherlyholmes. First, dont panic. Its true that a report published late last month in the journal Environmental Health found a link between California tap water and cancer. The study noted high levels of arsenic, plus numerous other contaminants that may be more toxic in combination than they are separately. According to the report, the tainted water could cause more than 200 cases of cancer a year. The problem is very serious but not necessarily statewide. The study didnt name the most troubled municipal water systems, but supplies that serve relatively small numbers of people are thought to pose the biggest risks. Some news accounts made it sound like the states entire water supply is carcinogenic. Thats not what the report shows although, to be clear, it also doesnt show the opposite. State officials are examining the results. But even if most California tap water is OK, thats small comfort for the people in the problem areas. If turning on the faucet causes cancer in hundreds more people each year, and many thousands over lifetimes of drinking, washing and showering, its obviously a real problem that requires a concerted response. Advertisement Enter the Fray: First takes on the news of the minute Switching to bottled water is no real solution. Government water-quality regulations do not apply to the stuff in plastic containers on store shelves, and besides, some bottled water companies get their supplies straight from the tap, or at least from the same sources that supply water to home pipes. For years, industrial and agricultural interests in California negotiated with water agencies and lawmakers over the best way to apportion responsibility for cleaning up contaminated water. It wasnt easy, in part because some of the most serious problems (arsenic, for example) are largely natural. But many of the parties reached a tentative accord two years ago, which would impose fees on dairies, fertilizer sellers and most residential water customers (who would pay about 95 cents more per month). Its a good solution. Former Gov. Jerry Brown supported it but couldnt persuade the Legislature to approve it. Gov. Gavin Newsom is a strong supporter but is still dealing with opposition from water agencies. The Environmental Health report strengthens his case. Still, the so-called water tax would provide enough funding chiefly for those water systems with more pollutants than government standards allow. The Environmental Health study suggests that even safe contaminant levels can increase the incidence of cancer over time. Theres still no reason to panic but plenty of reason to get more serious about improving the quality of the states water supply. Follow the Opinion section on Twitter @latimesopinion and Facebook After special counsel Robert S. Mueller III filed his report on his investigation into possible ties between Donald Trumps campaign and Russia, the president hailed the report as a total exoneration. His attorney general has since released a redacted version of the document, which elicited a similar reaction from Trump. But now that Democrats in Congress are seeking to gain a fuller understanding of Muellers reasoning including why the special counsel reached no decision about whether Trump obstructed justice the White House is stonewalling. On Wednesday, hours before the House Judiciary Committee voted to hold Atty. Gen. William Barr in contempt of Congress for defying a subpoena for an unredacted version of Muellers report, Trump, following Barrs advice, asserted protective executive privilege in connection with the report and its underlying evidence. The administration already had moved to prevent former White House counsel Don McGahn from fully cooperating with the committee. And earlier, Trump tweeted that Bob Mueller should not testify before Congress. The invocation of executive privilege, even on a preliminary basis, is hard to justify. By allowing McGahn to talk to Muellers investigators, Trump in effect waived any privilege. Congress should be free not only to question McGahn about what he told Mueller (including his sensational assertion that Trump directed him to have Mueller removed), but also to seek documents from him. The administration suggested that executive privilege might attach to other documents that made their way to Mueller. But if thats the case why didnt officials assert the privilege earlier? Advertisement Enter the Fray: First takes on the news of the minute The administrations resistance to congressional requests related to the Mueller report comes against the backdrop of a larger contempt by this president for the separation of powers. Trump has made it clear that he doesnt believe he has to provide information to the House because it is now controlled by Democrats. Were fighting all the subpoenas, he said last month. Look, these arent like impartial people. The Democrats are trying to win 2020. Obviously Democrats are motivated to some degree by a quest for partisan advantage, as are the congressional Republicans who continue to cover for Trump, and some of their requests seem excessive. But that doesnt give the president the right to ignore requests for information and testimony to which Congress is entitled. That includes information about whether Trump might have obstructed justice whether or not Congress seeks that information as part of a formal impeachment inquiry. It isnt just partisan Democrats who have remarked on this administrations stubborn refusal to respect Congress prerogatives. Even John Yoo, the conservative Berkeley law professor who served in the Justice Department during the George W. Bush administration, told the New York Times that Trump was treating Congress like theyre the Chinese or a local labor union working on a Trump building. Whether rooted in self-protection or hubris, Trumps defiance of Congress is dangerous. And by resisting meaningful congressional oversight across the board, the president undercuts any argument he might make that Congress should compromise with the White House in seeking particular information. Absolutism begets absolutism. Follow the Opinion section on Twitter @latimesopinionand Facebook Only in healthcare do consumers routinely buy goods and services without having any idea what the prices are. For people with insurance, thats not a big deal as long as they stay within their plans network of doctors and hospitals. The problem is that in addition to having no visibility into the price of care, they may have no idea whether their in-network hospital or doctor is bringing in an out-of-network specialist to help out for example, the anaesthesiologist who provides the sedatives or the radiologist who examines the X-rays. This is a huge financial threat to many Americans, and lawmakers across the country have struggled to end it. On Thursday, President Trump entered the debate by calling on Congress to end surprise medical bills by passing legislation based a set of principles he said were designed to attract bipartisan support. His interest in the topic is welcome, and it may prod lawmakers to find a solution to a problem that pits one powerful special interest health insurers against another doctors, hospitals and other healthcare providers. But the principles Trump outlined cover just the simplest aspects of the issue. They appear to be silent on the tough questions that lawmakers have been unable to answer. Advertisement Enter the Fray: First takes on the news of the minute And maybe thats the best thing Trump can do if he really wants a solution. His work on healthcare issues has been incredibly polarizing in particular, his incessant attacks on the Affordable Care Act and Medicaid. His administration has sought to lower insurance premiums by increasing access to plans that offer less protection, a strategy that helps younger, healthier people at the expense of those with preexisting conditions. In fairness, the Trump administration has done good things on some healthcare issues, particularly in trying to bring down the cost of prescription drugs. It unveiled its latest initiative Wednesday: a rule requiring drug makers that advertise costly prescription medicines to consumers to prominently disclose the drugs list prices. Although its sure to be challenged in court, the rule is consistent with the administrations efforts to bring badly needed transparency to the healthcare industry. And again, just by putting pressure on lawmakers to act on surprise medical bills, Trump may push them to forge consensus on how to move forward. The principles he laid out Thursday are good (albeit minimal) ones: Patients getting emergency care should not have to pay more for out-of-network services than they would pay in-network, and those getting non-emergency care at an in-network facility should be informed in advance of any out-of-network providers and what they will charge. California went further in 2016, passing a law barring not just surprise bills, but out-of-network charges levied for non-emergency treatments at in-network facilities. The main hurdle to the bill was deciding who loses and how much when consumers are shielded from higher charges the out-of-network provider or the insurer? The Legislature ultimately decided to use Medicare reimbursement rates as a benchmark and required state regulators to set up a binding dispute resolution mechanism for providers and insurers. (State lawmakers are now trying to come up with a solution for emergency care and for employers with self-funded health plans, which were not included under the 2016 law.) Administration officials told reporters that they do not support binding arbitration. Nor does their proposal include any benchmarks for pricing. Equally problematic, Trumps principles would offer no protection for people seeking non-emergency care and being forced by in-network providers to accept out-of-network services. They would simply be told in advance that theyd have to cover potentially staggering costs out of pocket. According to Joe Grogan, director of the White House domestic policy council, surprise medical bills are a pervasive problem at hospitals, affecting an estimated 14% of outpatient emergency room visits, 20% of admissions that come through the ER and 9% of elective admissions. He added that a relatively small number of hospitals are the main sources of out-of-network billing surprises 15% of hospitals have more than 80% of the visits that led to surprise medical bills. A House committee recently held the first-ever congressional hearing on surprise bills, so the issue is on lawmakers radar screen. But a lot of work remains to be done to reach consensus on a solution especially on the questions for which the Trump administration is not proposing an answer. With a $21.5-billion surplus, Gov. Gavin Newsoms televised update to his proposed spending plan for the 2019-20 budget on Thursday known as the annual May revise was a little like watching Oprah on giveaway day. You get a car! You get a car! You get a car! In this case, millions or even billions for everyone: More money for healthcare. More money for schools and universities, for preschool and child-care. More for building housing, for helping the homeless, for fighting infectious diseases, for hiring new judges, for well you get the idea. Its great that, after a decade of painful recovery from recession, the states finances are now flush enough to invest more heavily in programs that make the state a better place. Thats what we pay taxes for, after all. Even so, Newsoms $213.5-billion spending plan doesnt go hog-wild. It beefs up payments to unfunded pension liabilities and puts more money in savings for the inevitable downturn. Advertisement But this windfall will make it tougher for Newsom to sell some of the proposals tucked into his suggested budget that would extract more money from Californians or their businesses to pay for, among other things, clean drinking water and the two additional weeks of paid family leave that are part of his Parents Agenda. He is also seeking a tax penalty on people who dont buy health insurance. Legislators should push back on these proposals when they start hashing through the details. Republicans have already made it a talking point: Even before Newsom stopped answering questions about the revised budget, the responses rolled into media inboxes. The Governors plan to increase taxes while the state enjoys a record surplus defies logic, Assembly Budget Committee Vice Chairman Jay Obernolte (R-Big Bear Lake) said in a statement. But it should be an issue for fiscally minded Democrats too. This surplus suggests that Californians are already shelling out a fair amount of dough to fund the government. Is it the right time to ask for more? Enter the Fray: First takes on the news of the minute We now know for certain that Russia invaded our democracy. They didnt use bombs, jets or tanks. Instead, they planned a mission to undermine the foundation of our electoral system. This mission, according to special counsel Robert S. Mueller III, was sweeping and systematic, yet the U.S. remains vulnerable to many of the same tactics utilized against us in 2016 and 2018. This isnt a partisan issue. In the last presidential election, Russia aimed its attack at the Democratic candidate; next time it could be the Republican. But there are steps we can take to help protect the electoral process. Russias 2016 assault was carefully planned. In 2014, Russian agents landed on U.S. soil in order to gather information to learn how to mimic us so that their social media posts would be more believable. They developed a sophisticated network of online personas backed by bots designed to make hateful and divisive posts go viral. Political ads sold on TV and radio are required to disclose the organizations that paid for them. But right now, the same rules dont apply to ads sold online. Advertisement According to disclosures made to Congress, 126 million Facebook users saw posts linked to Russia. Thats more than a third of the U.S. population. There were also thousands of Russian-sponsored YouTube videos and tens of thousands of tweets aimed at swaying the election. But all of this wasnt fully understood until it was too late. And the threat isnt over. Last month, FBI Director Christopher Wray described the 2018 efforts by Russia to interfere in American elections as a dress rehearsal for the big show in 2020. We need to take action now to prevent a recurrence of 2016 or something even worse. Currently, political ads sold on TV and radio are required to disclose the organizations that paid for them. This is a simple requirement that the Supreme Court including the late Justice Antonin Scalia upheld. But right now, the same rules dont apply to ads sold online. This leaves a huge loophole in the law especially because online ads have become more popular than ever. In 2018, an estimated $2.3 billion was spent on online ads, compared with $1.4 billion in 2016, and just $71 million in the 2014 election cycle. For the 2020 election cycle, online ad spending is projected to reach nearly $3 billion. While some social media companies have taken steps to implement new transparency rules, we need more than a patchwork of company-generated solutions to ensure that political ads purchased by our adversaries are exposed. We need rules of the road that apply to all social media companies. The bipartisan Honest Ads Act, which I introduced this week with Sens. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) and Mark Warner (D-Va.), would shine a light on the dark money being used to buy online political ads. The goal is simple: to bring our laws into the 21st century to ensure voters know who is paying to influence our political system. The legislation would achieve this by amending existing laws that now apply to political ads sold in print and on TV and radio, and extend their reach to online political advertising. The Honest Ads Act would require digital platforms with at least 50 million monthly viewers which includes major tech companies like Facebook, Google, and Twitter to maintain a public file of political ads sold on their platform by a person or group who spends more than $500 on political ads in a year. The file would contain a digital copy of the advertisement and key information about who paid for the ad and who the ad was designed to target. The bill would also require online platforms to do a better job when it comes to making sure that foreign individuals and entities are not purchasing political advertisements in order to influence the American electorate. Enter the Fray: First takes on the news of the minute A lasting legacy of the late Sen. John McCain is the bipartisan Campaign Finance Reform Act of 2002 also known as McCain-Feingold which, among other things, required politicians to say, I approve this message, and required more transparency for political ads. The law was intended to ensure that voters know who is paying to influence our political system. McCain knew that the next frontier of campaign finance reform would be closing the loopholes that are currently being exploited by foreign adversaries to sow division among Americans. Thats why he was the lead Republican sponsor of the Honest Ads Act when we first introduced this legislation in the last Congress. It didnt become law in that Congress, but we are hopeful it will now. At the time, McCain said, I have long fought to increase transparency and end the corrupting influence of special interests in political campaigns, and I am confident this legislation will modernize existing law to safeguard the integrity of our election system. This modernization cannot come soon enough. Amy Klobuchar is a U.S. senator from Minnesota and a Democratic presidential candidate. To date, efforts to obtain President Trumps personal income tax returns have gone nowhere. It is clear the president will never release them voluntarily, and the Treasury Department has stonewalled the House Ways and Means Committees request for them, despite a federal statute that allows Congress to review any taxpayers income tax returns. In attempting to justify his refusal to comply with the congressional request, Treasury Secretary Steven T. Mnuchin determined that the Committees request lacks a legitimate legislative purpose and that the Treasury Department was not authorized to disclose the requested returns and return information. If the issue ends up in the federal courts, which seems a certainty now, it will likely take months or years to resolve. But there may be another way. A number of states, including California, New Jersey and Washington, are currently considering legislation that would require presidential candidates to release their personal income tax returns as a condition of being eligible for either the primary or general election ballot. The bills pending in New Jersey and Washington would require the release of personal income tax returns to be eligible to receive the states electoral college votes; California would require disclosure in order for a candidate to appear on the states presidential primary ballot. Enactment of at least one of these mandatory disclosure measures seems likely. Advertisement Similar bills have previously passed the New Jersey and California legislatures only to be vetoed by their governors. In California, then Gov. Jerry Brown worried about the precedent such a law would set. Today we require tax returns, he wrote to explain his veto decision, but what would be next? Five years of health records? A certified birth certificate? High school report cards? Both states now have new governors, however, who might take a different view. Whats more, enactment of at least one of these mandatory disclosure measures seems likely. If a single state imposes such a requirement, of course, all voters, everywhere, would have access to this critically important information. When this happens, presidential candidates, and particularly the Trump campaign, are certain to argue that such laws are unconstitutional. So which approach would be most likely to stand up to such a challenge? States possess very broad power over the selection of presidential electors to represent the state in the electoral college. The currently pending legislation in New Jersey and Washington would deploy this constitutional authority to require candidates to disclose several years of tax returns (with confidential information such as Social Security numbers redacted) in order to be eligible to receive the states votes in the electoral college. The Supreme Court has consistently upheld the freedom of states to determine how to select their representation in the electoral college. One decision, from 1892, leaves it to the Legislature exclusively to define the method of selecting presidential electors. And in Bush vs. Gore, decided in 2000, conservative members of the Supreme Court, including current Justice Clarence Thomas, found that in a Presidential election the clearly expressed intent of the legislature must prevail. Enter the Fray: First takes on the news of the minute A candidate might attempt to challenge state laws adding a disclosure requirement to qualify for electoral college votes by saying they intrude on constitutional guarantees of privacy or free speech, or by challenging them for imposing an additional requirement for serving as president beyond those set forth in the Constitution (namely age, residency and being a natural-born citizen). Still, the states would have a very strong argument in citing their long-enshrined right to decide on a slate of electors. Californias legislation, like similar bills pending in 18 other states, takes a different and possibly more problematic approach. Its pending bill, which cleared the state Senate last week, would require all candidates appearing on the presidential primary election ballot to submit five years of tax returns to the secretary of state, who would then redact them and publish them on the web. The problem with this approach is that in primary elections, the political parties have a much stronger constitutional claim than states to regulate eligibility, since these elections apportion delegates to their national nominating conventions. A constitutional challenge from one of the parties citing the 1st Amendment might well result in invalidation of Californias law. In an ideal world, Congress would enact a statute mandating greater presidential financial transparency. This would help them to better enforce the Emoluments Clause and also to ensure effective oversight of a presidents potential conflicts of interest. But since there is no realistic possibility that Congress will enact such a law, state legislation is worth a shot. Ronald J. Krotoszynski Jr. is a law professor at the University of Alabama and author of Privacy Revisited: A Global Perspective on the Right to Be Left Alone. To the editor: The last several years of intensifying sniping between the executive and legislative branches of our government have culminated in something close to a constitutional crisis. Now, the American people must hear the truth, regardless of what it tells them. The president and his supporters in Congress say subpoenas for Donald Trumps tax and business records and the full report by Justice Department special counsel Robert S. Mueller III are an extraordinarily complex charade to create the grounds for impeachment. The Democrats say they want to know more about Russias interference in the 2016 election and attempts by Trump to obstruct Muellers investigation. Muellers report, in its calculated inconclusiveness, is intended to serve as the guide for getting at the truth. Sworn testimony from everyone involved is the next logical step. The House can then gauge if there is any real basis for impeachment. Given that President Trumps side refuses to cooperate, we must ask: If there was nothing to investigate, then what is there to hide? If we do not get the truth, then we have been betrayed at the highest level. Advertisement Dan Linn, La Jolla .. To the editor: In 2012, the Republican-controlled House held Atty. Gen. Eric J. Holder in contempt of Congress. What did it mean? Nothing. Now, the Democrats hold Atty. Gen. William Barr in contempt of Congress. What does it mean? Nothing. I think Ill take a nap now. Jeff Whitfield, Santa Ana .. To the editor: It is a shame that Trumps well-known modesty forces him so desperately to oppose sharing with Congress and the American public the unredacted Mueller report that totally exonerates him. Edward A. Ruttenberg, Rancho Palos Verdes .. To the editor: If Trump and the GOP are correct that congressional oversight of the executive branch is a non-starter then why on Earth did Hillary Clinton subject herself to days of withering questioning from House Republicans on the 2012 terrorist attack in Benghazi, Libya, and other issues? Just curious. Ken Greenberg, Los Angeles Follow the Opinion section on Twitter @latimesopinion and Facebook. House Democratic leaders are settling in for what they say could be a long, hot summer of legal battles to obtain the full unredacted Mueller report and President Trumps tax returns. And they are hoping that a slow but deliberate approach which could last until the 2020 election will appease both the progressive activists eager for impeachment and moderates leery of trying to remove Trump from office. If it takes a year and a half, thats a relatively short period of time in the course of the history of our country, House Majority Leader Steny H. Hoyer (D-Md.) said. Though she agreed Thursday that the country is facing a constitutional crisis, Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-San Francisco) said the full House wont vote immediately to hold Atty. Gen. William Barr in contempt. On Wednesday, a key committee voted to move forward with the measure. Advertisement She suggested a vote on Barr could be combined with contempt measures for other, as-of-yet unnamed administration officials. When were ready, well come to the floor, she said Thursday. This is very methodical. Its very Constitution-based. Its very law-based. Its very factually based. Only after a House contempt vote can lawyers go to court to try to enforce a subpoena demanding that Barr hand over the entire, unredacted report by special counsel Robert S. Mueller III. A months-long legal battle between the legislative and executive branches carries political risk. Independent voters may lose interest in a prolonged standoff that, for some, has been hard to follow. At the other end of the spectrum, progressive activists are growing impatient. Why is [Pelosi] failing to uphold her own constitutional duty by refusing to start impeachment hearings now? asked billionaire Tom Steyer, who is leading an effort to impeach the president. So far, Democratic lawmakers are falling in line behind Pelosis more cautious approach, trying to keep the focus on the multiple House investigations into the president. But several lawmakers, including key members of the House Judiciary Committee, emphasized that impeachment is still a possibility. The Democratic caucus realizes that if we cant get the facts, we may be forced to do an impeachment proceeding, said Rep. Ted Lieu (D-Torrance), a member of the panel. Some Democrats view the White Houses resistance to the House investigations as an opportunity to build support among voters that could eventually result in removing the president whether through impeachment or through the 2020 election. They hope Americans will see Trumps refusal to cooperate as a sign that he is hiding something. Several Democrats said they expected they would have access to the full Mueller report within six months. Others predict that the Trump administration will be able to drag out the process longer. Despite the Democrats go-slow approach, Republicans say Democrats are moving too fast. Rep. Doug Collins of Georgia, the top Republican on the House Judiciary Committee, said Wednesday that Democrats were rushing at lightning speed to hold Barr in contempt. When the Republican-controlled House Oversight Committee wanted documents on the Fast and Furious gun-tracking operation, Collins noted, 250 days passed between the subpoena and a contempt vote on then-Atty. Gen. Eric H. Holder Jr. Judiciary Democrats are moving more than 10 times faster, he said. In addition to the effort to obtain the unredacted Mueller report, Democrats want to view Trumps tax returns. House leaders plan to decide this week whether they will continue to try to negotiate with the administration to obtain the tax records they have already written letters demanding them from Treasury Secretary Steven T. Mnuchin or go directly to court. Mnuchin has said he wont release them, and the president sued his banks and accounting firm to block the institutions from releasing them. Public support for impeachment is relatively low. A recent NBC/Wall Street Journal poll found that 48% of people say Congress should not hold impeachment hearings. An additional one-third says the House should continue investigations to see whether theres enough evidence to hold impeachment hearings. Only 17% of people want impeachment hearings to begin now. But they represent some of the most active and enthusiastic Democratic voters people whom Democrats have to keep on board to vote and volunteer in 2020. Rep. Karen Bass (D-Los Angeles) acknowledged that some Democratic voters want the House to hurry to impeach the president. She said its up to lawmakers to explain the reality that even if the House votes for impeachment, the Republican-led Senate would all but certainly not vote to remove the president from office. Her message to Democratic voters who want the House to hurry on impeachment: Vote in November 2020, she said. You can all participate in his impeachment. Times staff writer Chris Megerian contributed to this report. The latest from Washington More stories from Jennifer Haberkorn Joe Biden, capping off his two-day visit to Los Angeles, told donors on Thursday that he was not getting too comfortable with his strong polling numbers. I know all that polling stuff looks good but it is a marathon and we have a long way to go. Biden told about 70 people at a breakfast fundraiser at the Jonathan Club, a private downtown social club. Theres a lot of people who are qualified and decent and running. And I think its one heck of a field, although I never anticipated thered be 300 people running. His audience laughed at the exaggeration, although the current crop of more than 20 Democrats running is a historically large field. The morning gathering, hosted by trial lawyer Tom Girardi and his wife Erika, a star of the reality show Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, was the third fundraiser the former vice president held in Los Angeles during his first visit to the city as a presidential candidate. Advertisement Between events in Los Angeles swankiest neighborhoods Wednesday to collect campaign checks, Biden and Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti stopped for a late afternoon snack at King Taco No. 10 in Pico-Union. Fielding a crush of selfie requests, Biden, wearing a blue blazer and no tie, and Garcetti, in a dress shirt with a tie but no jacket, joined two diners for lunch, chatting about California-specific concerns such as homelessness. Biden pledged to run a positive campaign, promising to not speak ill of any of the Democratic candidates, and predicted the large field of candidates will be winnowed out pretty quickly. Win back Trump voters or rally the base? Democrats wrestle with 2020 strategy in Michigan Garcetti has been courted by a number of presidential hopefuls as they swing through Los Angeles. He toured a water treatment plant with New Jersey Sen. Cory Booker last month and will appear with Pete Buttigieg, the mayor of South Bend, Ind., at a labor event Thursday morning. So far, Garcetti said, he hasnt chosen whom hell endorse. Like most folks, Im looking and listening, Garcetti said. Im not personally shopping; Im standing up for the people of Los Angeles. Still, the two mens affinity for each other was evident, with Biden slinging his arm over Garcettis shoulder as they ordered. The fare for Bidens first fundraiser Wednesday in Hancock Park was a bit different ahi tuna ceviche and avocado, langoustine tail and caviar. In a 20-minute speech to about 250 donors, Biden said that he was running to restore the backbone of this country and that while some criticize him for being Old Joe, he has the experience to unite the nation. Oprah needs foreign policy experience, Garcetti is smart as hell, and other Bidenisms from the L.A. Times Ideas Exchange The event drew about a dozen protesters from the National Union of Healthcare Workers, which is in a dispute with Kaiser Permanente over resources for mental health care. The union members said they wanted Biden to raise their concerns with the events host, Dr. Cynthia Telles, a Kaiser board member. Stacey Cohen, 50, a licensed clinical therapist who works at Kaisers Los Angeles Medical Center, said she was very surprised that her union had not heard from Biden or his campaign about their concerns. Hes stated that hes a union man and that he supports unions. Hes talked about mental health parity and how important it is, Cohen said. And yet hes refusing to meet with us who are the direct providers. John Nelson, a spokesman for Kaiser Permanente, said that the demonstration was a publicity stunt and that the company has been in active bargaining with the union for nearly a year. Biden did not interact with the protesters or address the demonstration in his remarks. His second fundraiser Wednesday tapped into Hollywoods deep pockets. The evening event was held at the Brentwood home of James Costos, a former HBO executive, and his husband, Michael Smith. Other co-hosts included film producer Jeffrey Katzenberg and former Google Chief Executive Eric Schmidt. Like the daytime fundraiser, the event drew protests from a labor group. This time it was about 20 University of California workers who were protesting co-host Richard Blum, a UC regent. Referencing Zabrocki and Rea, Galante said she was grateful for those who came before me as far as elected officials, and that with the campaign and election behind them, residents and elected officials can all stand together for our common love of Tinley Park. In the Trump administrations latest effort to increase oil and gas drilling on federal land, it announced finalized plans Thursday to open 725,500 acres along Californias Central Coast to fossil fuel exploration. The Bureau of Land Managements plans encompass a region spanning 11 counties stretching from the Pacific coast to the San Joaquin Valley but most of the affected land is in Fresno, Monterey and San Benito counties. Under its proposal, 683,100 acres of federal mineral estate managed by the agency would be opened to oil and gas drilling. Another 42,400 acres would have restrictions prohibiting surface-level equipment such as pumpjacks. These rules would apply to land within the 8,000-acre Joaquin Rocks area, the Ciervo-Panoche Natural Area in Fresno County and the core population areas of the endangered giant kangaroo rat. Advertisement Bureau spokeswoman Serena Baker said that most of the wells would likely be drilled in or near existing oil fields. The agency estimates that 37 new oil and gas wells will be developed within the next 20 years. The agencys plan comes only weeks after the administration detailed its plans to open more than 1 million acres of public and private land in other parts of California to oil and gas drilling. Together, the proposals target nearly 1,737,000 acres across 19 California counties. Environmentalists criticized the latest plan as a giveaway to oil and gas companies. From Monterey to the Bay Area, the president wants to let oil companies drill and spill their way across our beloved public lands and wildlife habitat, said Clare Lakewood, a senior attorney at the environmental advocacy group Center for Biological Diversity. As we fight climate chaos, theres no justification for any new drilling and fracking, let alone this outrageous assault on our pristine wild places. Environmentalists warn that any new drilling in California will only worsen the impacts of climate change. They want Gov. Gavin Newsom to ban new oil and gas drilling on state-owned land. At the national level, they have filed rafts of lawsuits against the Trump administration, hoping to tangle up the presidents policy of American energy dominance in years of court proceedings. In addition to fear over the worsening climate crisis, these groups say they are concerned that increased drilling activity could worsen air quality in parts of the state where it is already polluted. They also worry that fracking, an oil production technique used in some federally-leased oil and gas wells, could increase the likelihood of earthquakes on faults that have not shown signs of activity for years. Scientists have linked the dramatic increase in earthquakes in Oklahoma to fracking. If the administration is ultimately able to open thousands of acres to drilling, it would mark the end of a five-year moratorium on leasing federal land in California to oil and gas developers. The bureau has not held a lease sale in California since 2013. The latest from Washington More stories from Anna M. Phillips President Trump said Thursday that former Secretary of State John F. Kerry should be prosecuted for speaking privately with Iranian officials and, the president claimed, discouraging them from negotiating with his administration. Hes talking to Iran and has been, has many meetings and many phone calls and hes telling them what to do, Trump said at the White House. And that is a total violation of the Logan Act. Only two people have ever been charged under the Logan Act, which was passed in 1799 and forbids private citizens from unauthorized negotiating with foreign governments. As secretary of State from 2013 to 2017 under President Obama, Kerry helped negotiate the 2015 Iran nuclear deal. Kerry said last fall that he has met three or four times since leaving office with his former counterpart, Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif. Advertisement After the 2016 election, but before Trump took office, several members of his transition team held discussions with foreign envoys, prompting calls from some Democrats that they be charged under the Logan Act. None were. The president lashed out at Kerry amid escalating tensions between Washington and Tehran, which announced Wednesday that it would stop complying with some terms of the nuclear accord and may start enriching uranium again in 60 days, a more serious step. A year ago, Trump withdrew from the nuclear deal, which eased or lifted sanctions in exchange for Iran curbing its nuclear ambitions. The other signatories have largely stuck by the agreement even as the Trump administration has reimposed stiff sanctions on Irans banks, oil exports, petrochemicals and other sectors. Kerrys spokesman, Matt Summers, disputed Trumps account of Kerrys conversations and his characterizations of the nuclear deal. Everything President Trump said today is simply wrong, end of story, Summers said in a statement. Hes wrong about the facts, wrong about the law, and sadly hes been wrong about how to use diplomacy to keep America safe. Kerry, who was the Democratic nominee for president in 2004, helped negotiate a nuclear agreement that worked to solve an intractable problem, he added. The world supported it then and supports it still. The White House announced Sunday that it was sending an aircraft carrier task force and Air Force bombers to the Persian Gulf area in response to what it said was intelligence indicating possible Iranian targeting of U.S. forces or allies in the region. Its not clear when they will arrive. Asked Thursday about the possibility of a military confrontation with Iran, Trump did not rule it out during a rambling discussion with reporters after an event in the Roosevelt Room meant to showcase a Republican proposal to help patients with unexpected medical bills. I dont want to say no, but hopefully that wont happen, he said. He said he was open to negotiating a new arms control deal with Irans leaders, one that would include limits on their ballistic missiles and on what the White House calls Irans malign activities in the region. Id like to see [Irans leaders] call me, he said. You know, John Kerry speaks to them a lot. John Kerry tells them not to call. Thats a violation of the Logan Act. And, frankly, he should be prosecuted on that, but my people dont want to do anything only the Democrats do that kind of stuff. Trump has repeatedly called on the Justice Department to investigate or jail his 2016 opponent, Hillary Clinton, former FBI officials and others who he alleges violated the law. During a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing last week, Atty. Gen. William Barr struggled to answer a question from Sen. Kamala Harris (D-Calif.), who asked whether the president or any other administration official ever asked or suggested [he] open an investigation into anyone? After Trump called for Kerrys prosecution Thursday, Harris sent Barr a letter requesting clarification of his response in light of the presidents troubling remarks. The President all but confirmed that he has made such a request when he called publicly for the prosecution of a former cabinet secretary and then stated that his people disagreed with him, wrote Harris, who is one of 21 Democrats seeking the partys presidential nomination. In his comments, Trump made a sales pitch similar to the one he has given North Korean leader Kim Jong Un in an as-yet unsuccessful effort to get him to give up his countrys nuclear arsenal. The two leaders have met twice in the last year, but negotiations have stalled. I want [Iran] to be strong and great and have a great economy, but theyre listening to John Kerry, whos violating a very important element of what hes supposed to be doing, Trump said. It wasnt the first time Trump has attacked Kerry. Last September, he tweeted that the former secretarys private conversations with Irans top diplomat were illegal. At the time, Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo called Kerrys behavior unseemly and inappropriate. The latest from Washington More stories from Eli Stokols Some bills are just more trouble than theyre worth for nervous legislators who must worry about voter support. One such bill is a current measure to tighten the requirement that children be vaccinated against contagious diseases like measles before being admitted to school for the first time. Kids can be excused from that edict for medical reasons, such as having a weak immune system caused by leukemia. But a few unscrupulous doctors are peddling medical exemptions for phony reasons to parents who obsessively fear vaccinations. Many of these parents get very hostile when lobbying lawmakers and attacking vaccine advocates. Advertisement The anti-vaccine people lots of them moms tend to be single-issue voters who care about keeping their kids from being inoculated and little else. Theyre like single-issue voters tied to other controversial topics, such as gun rights, abortion rights, animal rights and, increasingly, single-payer healthcare. Typically, one side often in the minority is tenacious and aggressive. Gun advocates are a prime example. The majority side is ho-hum on the issue. Theyve got other things theyre far more concerned about. So its the minority that causes the legislators grief. Thats certainly true with vaccines. Legislators who vote for a bill to increase vaccinations against contagious diseases risk harsh attacks from opponents. But theyll get little thanks from vaccination supporters. Sen. Richard Pan (D-Sacramento) is carrying the bill to stiffen Californias immunization law. As a practicing pediatrician, Pan is a legislative rarity: Hes actually a certified expert on the subject hes legislating about. The bill, SB 276, would require the state health department to review all applications for medical exemptions. The state would approve or reject them. It would create a standard application form. And exemptions would go into a state database. After a 2014 measles outbreak that began at Disneyland with most of the victims being unvaccinated Pan wrote legislation to eliminate all non-medical exemptions. The main exemption he scrubbed was based on religious beliefs. The bill was passed and signed by then-Gov. Jerry Brown in 2015. It was one of the strongest vaccination laws in the country. And it is credited with being the main reason why the current measles outbreak is much less severe in California than in New York, which has a religious exemption. Pan vividly remembers the political obstacles he faced in winning passage. Practically all the yes votes were cast by Democrats, virtually all the noes by Republicans. Id talk to legislators and tell them the problem with not having more children vaccinated, Pan says, and theyd tell me, This is my problem. The people who oppose vaccines, this is their most important issue. Theyre very passionate about it. Its the issue they will remember when they go to the ballot box. The vast majority who support this, its not their most important issue. They care about something else. I know Ill get a bunch of people upset voting for the bill. Theres definitely a downside and not much upside. My counter, Pan says, was when we have outbreaks, all the people worrying about their children getting measles will remember who had the opportunity to protect their families, but decided to put them at risk for political gain. Youre telling your constituents, Im OK with disease spreading in a community. After Pans 2015 bill became law, he says, anti-vaccine parents began doctor-shopping for physicians who would sign medical exemptions. He has heard that exemptions sold for from $200 to $600. Besides measles, kids are required to be vaccinated for such communicable diseases as diphtheria, mumps, whooping cough, chickenpox, hepatitis B and polio. But many parents are afraid that vaccinations can cause other ailments. They mistakenly believe, for example, that a measles shot can trigger autism a discredited theory promoted in 1998 by a lying researcher. His study was later retracted by the journal that published it. Many studies have proved theres no link between vaccinations and autism. A few of us are still around who remember when seemingly every schoolmate was hit by measles or mumps or chickenpox or whooping cough or all of above. It was like a rite of passage. When I grew up, a reader emailed me recently, measles was just part of life. It would go through a school classroom and 25% of the children would be absent. My mother made me stay in a dark room. I guess it could do something to your eyes. Fortunately, some smart people invented vaccines to all but eliminate those scourges in this country. Now some not-so-smart people are preventing their kids from being vaccinated and endangering whole communities. Theyre not only passionate, theyre aggressive, Pan says. Theyre almost like cults. They harass and try to intimidate. Theyve threatened my life and threatened to harm my family. They engage in a lot of hate speech. Compared me to Hitler, Pol Pot and Mao Tse-tung. Stop the vaccine guy. Send him back to his own country. Pans parents migrated from Taiwan. His bill has passed one committee: Senate Health, which Pan chairs. Theres a May 17 deadline for it clear the Senate Appropriations Committee. It probably will pass both houses and be signed by Gov. Gavin Newsom. But therell be a lot of shameful nastiness for a bill aimed at protecting children from terrible diseases. More from George Skelton george.skelton@latimes.com Follow @LATimesSkelton on Twitter Seizing our newborn infants, Blighting their lives with pain; Filling their veins with poison, Tainting each tender brain. Advertisement So go the lyrics of Anti-Compulsory Vaccination Hymn, circulated not by the modern-day anti-vaccine band the Refusers but by the Anti-Vaccination Society of America. The groups members campaigned against the lifesaving smallpox vaccine in the late 1800s, a turbulent time when a nation grappling with the aftermath of slavery responded with black codes and Jim Crow laws that pushed a divided society even further apart. Sound familiar? Vaccine resistance in America has frequently coincided with periods of great angst and resentment toward a government that seems bent on micromanaging citizens lives. As the country faces the largest outbreak of measles since the disease was deemed eliminated in 2000, epidemiologists and medical ethicists say they are not surprised to see an us-versus-them mentality fueling the rise of vaccine opponents once again. This is a broader symptom of distrusting our institutions, said Richard Carpiano, a medical sociologist at UC Riverside. Those who object to the measles vaccine arent just questioning the safety of the shot. Theyre challenging the states authority to require it. Its no longer a lack of trust in the vaccine, but the vaccinator, Nicholas Evans, a bioethicist at University of Massachusetts Lowell. Parents opposed to mandatory vaccination demonstrate in Sacramento. (Rich Pedroncelli / Associated Press) At least 764 people in 23 states have contracted measles in 2019, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. About half of those sickened have been children younger than 4. An infection is never an individualistic affair. The virus that causes measles is more contagious than Ebola or Zika, and it remains suspended in the air for two hours after an infected person has coughed or sneezed. To prevent a single case from ballooning into an outbreak, 90% to 95% of the population must be immunized. Its that simple: The more that are vaccinated, the more people who will be saved, said Gil F. Chavez, deputy director of the Center for Infectious Diseases at the California Department of Public Health. A nurse at the Utah County Health Department in Provo gives an MMR vaccine to a woman who has never been immunized before. (George Frey / Getty Images) There have always been pockets of vaccine resistance. But today they can be found on both ends of the political spectrum. Theres the liberal I define whats healthy for me people, and the conservative the government cant tell me what to do view, said Dr. Daniel Sulmasy, a bioethicist at Georgetown University. They come together in very American ways. Perhaps no part of the country typifies the liberal objection to mandatory vaccines better than the Pacific Northwest, where hundreds of activists rallied at the Washington state Capitol with posters that proclaimed My child, my choice. Many parents with a strong commitment to abortion rights and an organic lifestyle believe a bout of measles, like chickenpox, is a time-honored childhood rite of passage. About 2,800 miles and many ideological degrees away, ultra-Orthodox Jewish families in New Yorks Rockland County are citing individual autonomy and free exercise of religion as reasons for refusing mandatory vaccinations. Despite 224 measles cases and counting in that outbreak, the conservative community bristles at the governments attempt to interfere in their lives. Signs advertise free measles vaccines at the Rockland County Health Department in Pomona, N.Y. (Seth Wenig / Associated Press) A sign explains the local state of emergency at the Rockland County Health Department in Pomona, N.Y., after a measles outbreak. (Seth Wenig / Associated Press) Public health authorities have long restricted individual liberties for the sake of the common good. Smoking is prohibited in most public spaces. Tuberculosis patients who refuse medication can be forcibly detained. That thinking holds for vaccines as well. In 1905, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled against a father in Cambridge, Mass., who was fined $5 for refusing to have his son inoculated against smallpox. The courts 7-2 opinion made clear that states have the authority to mandate vaccinations because society bears the cost when people opt out. But anti-government sentiment tends to flourish when the fabric of society is frayed, as it is now. Civic discord undermines faith in public institutions, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Food and Drug Administration. Activists opposed to mandatory vaccinations gather outside a Senate committee hearing on the issue in Washington. (Jim Lo Scalzo / EPA/Shutterstock) Americans are now more polarized in their views on a variety of core issues than theyve been in at least 25 years, according to the Pew Research Center. This tension helps explain why resistance to the measles vaccine is so strong. Right now, we seem to be fighting about just about everything, said Elena Conis, a public health historian at UC Berkeley. Compulsory vaccination is no longer simply a medical act; its a political act. This division provides fertile ground for activists. For example, a group called Parents Educating and Advocating for Childrens Health, or PEACH, has been working to influence Orthodox Jews with conference calls and handbooks that accuse the government of exaggerating the benefits of vaccines while lying about the risks. Vaccine conference call tonight , October 28 , Sunday eve , due to the measles hysteria, from 9-10 pm, call 712-432-8773 PIN number 160754# Peach Group (@peachmoms) October 28, 2018 On its website, PEACH says it supports religious, philosophical, and medical choice, and that it isnt anti anything. But it does offer parents a simple form to request vaccine exemptions, which drive down vaccination rates. In Rockland County, about 28% of children were unvaccinated as of earlier this year, according to state health officials. The technique has worked before. After anti-vaccine activists visited a cluster of Somali immigrants in Minnesota, the number of children who received the MMR vaccine for measles, mumps and rubella dropped from 92% to 45% over a decade, according to states health department. A subsequent measles outbreak in 2017 sickened 79 people. How stricter vaccine laws spared California from a major measles outbreak Other politically conservative regions of the United States are at risk. In Texas, the number of children with personal belief exemptions increased from 3,000 in 2003 to more than 56,000 in 2018. In Arizona, lawmakers have pushed back on vaccine enforcement legislation, including one who called it communist. Its the rise of individualism, said bioethicist Arthur Caplan of New York Universitys Langone Medical Center. Thats Trumpism thats what the president represents. Indeed, President Trump has endorsed the discredited idea that the MMR vaccine causes autism. Before taking office, he held high-profile meetings with prominent anti-vaccine activists. Healthy young child goes to doctor, gets pumped with massive shot of many vaccines, doesn't feel good and changes - AUTISM. Many such cases! Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) March 28, 2014 But as the number of measles cases passed 700, the president revised his stance. The vaccinations are so important, he said on the White House lawn last week. Children have to get their shot. Individualism also motivates those on the left whose aversion to authority is reminiscent of the turbulent 1960s and 70s, Evans said. They are asking the same questions about vaccines that feminists once asked about birth control pills: Are they necessary? Are they safe? The sentiment is apparent in the school records of Clark County, Wash., the epicenter of an outbreak that sickened 71 people. Nearly 1 in 4 kindergartners began the 2017-18 school year without all their recommended shots, according to state health department data. After a bill to end philosophical exemptions to vaccines passed the state Senate in April, some residents vowed to move elsewhere if the measure became law. Protesters in Olympia, Wash., express their opposition to a bill that would prevent parents from claiming a philosophical exemption to the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine. (Ted S. Warren / Associated Press) Those anti-establishment attitudes are often grounded in the conviction that individuals know better than experts, who may be in the pockets of pharmaceutical companies and therefore discount the healing power of fresh air and exercise, Caplan said. Youre going to hear, Nature wouldnt give us challenges we couldnt handle, which I find hilarious, because nature is trying to kill us about 80% of the time, he said. Terry Roark holds a photo of her son, Thomas, who she said was harmed by vaccines given to him as an infant. She was one of many who spoke against a proposal that would require parents in California to get approval from state public health officials to opt out of vaccinations. (Rich Pedroncelli / Associated Press) Political and social upheaval have gone hand in hand with the most raucous spans of anti-vaccination culture beginning with the era of the hymn about injecting poison into newborns. After the Civil War, the federal government flexed its power over states to protect the rights of African Americans. When Reconstruction ended and that force was withdrawn, the backlash sparked a wave of individualism. It was hardly an ideal climate for the doctors and drugmakers promoting smallpox vaccines in the early 1900s. Although the disease was killing about 1,500 Americans each year, skeptical families didnt see a need for the shot. Outposts of the Anti-Vaccination Society of America and similarly named groups sprang up in several states, and their members helped overturn mandatory vaccination laws from California to West Virginia. An anti-vaccination cartoon from 1892. (Historical Medical Library of the College of Physicians of Philadelphia) A fresh wave of resistance arose in the 1970s, fueled by the zeitgeist of the counterculture that encouraged Americans to question authority and traditional sources of expertise, Conis said. The environmental movement taught people to be skeptical of the chemicals in their everyday lives, and advocates for reproductive rights encouraged women to exercise authority over their bodies rather than let lawmakers make decisions for them. Women pushed back against patriarchy. Environmentalists pushed back against industry. Patients pushed back against doctors, Conis said. When you put those movements together, you get a skepticism on the left, which bubbles up and combines with the long-held anti-vaccination views of libertarians on the right. The CDC missed its goal of eradicating measles in the U.S. by 1982. Other failed attempts followed. Whenever political support went away, the cases tended to tick back up again, she said. Health officials finally succeeded in 2000, but that victory is now in jeopardy. Experts fear measles outbreaks will continue until Americans return to the middle ground where facts are trusted and expertise is valued. In a politically polarized country, Conis said, vaccination is as charged and divisive as any other issue. Some registered nurses at Providence St. Joseph Medical Center are concerned about a recent procedural change they say is already having negative consequences for patients. Members from SEIU Local 121RNs, St. Joes chapter, spoke during a Burbank City Council meeting last week, saying shift cuts made at the hospital mean there are now fewer nurses to assist patients on each shift. Before July, each hospital floor would have three certified nursing assistants, or CNAs, for every 24 patients. However, union members said management decided to change that model, which now allows three CNAs for every 30 patients, said Lou Bautista, a registered nurse at Providence St. Joseph, during the meeting. Bautista, who has been working at the Burbank hospital for eight years, said she and her colleagues were already stretched thin before the change was made. With the new policy, Bautista said it is more difficult for her and her fellow nurses to provide the high level of care for which Providence St. Joseph is known. Our certified nursing assistants are our backbone, she said. So without them, were pretty much stuck, and its detrimental to all nurses working on the floor. Joyce Powell, union chapter president at St. Joseph and an emergency room registered nurse at the hospital, said on Monday that the staffing change is a safety concern for not only the patients but for the nurses themselves. She said that, because of a heavier workload, registered nurses and certified nursing assistants have been scrambling from patient to patient, and at times responding to calls late. Theres a lot of work that the certified nursing assistants and nurses do up there, and these cuts put the patients at a risk, Powell said. Bautista said last week that the change has already affected her. Just a few weeks ago, Bautista was notified to help a patient go to the restroom, but she was already tending to another patient with an intravenous medication. While tied up with her current patient, the certified nursing assistant who was supposed to help Bautista with the patient who needed to go to the restroom was also busy, giving another patient a bath. In addition to that, the other certified nursing assistant was clocked out for lunch. Eventually, Bautista was able to help the patient who had been waiting for a while, but they had already soiled themselves. Its horrid to have somebody go through that, Bautista said. She was very upset and wondered why it took so long for someone to give her assistance. All I could do was apologize as I was cleaning her up. Officials from Providence St. Joseph Medical Center issued a statement on Friday saying that the hospital devotes resources to comply with safe staffing levels under the states nurse staffing laws and guidelines. We design and adjust staffing models to best meet the needs of our community, said Patricia Aidem, spokeswoman for Providence St. Joseph Medical Center, in the statement. The issue raised by SEIU is a staffing and scheduling change that is specifically permitted by our union contract. Aidem added that management is currently in labor negotiations with SEIU, whose contract ends on Dec. 31. Although hospital officials say they are dedicated to providing high-quality care for patients, Bautista and Powell said they think otherwise. In addition to not addressing the calls from some patients on time, Powell said she and some of her colleagues are worried about fatigued nurses and nursing assistants who could injure themselves while on the job. She said that because of the increased workload, some nurses are not taking their required breaks because they are tied up assisting multiple patients. Unfortunately, theres only so many hands to help the people that come through St. Joseph, Powell said. What she, Bautista and other nurses at Providence St. Joseph want is for management to reverse the staffing changes so that the level of service can go back to what it was before. It takes a team to provide care, but we cant do that if theyre cutting our team members, Powell said. anthonyclark.carpio@latimes.com Twitter: @acocarpio When Angelica Suarez showed up at East Los Angeles College in fall 1985, she didnt know what to expect. She was the first in her family to graduate from high school. Her parents wanted her to get a full-time job after graduation, but she insisted that going to college would better help the family of six children. So they allowed her to go. As a first-generation college student who immigrated from Mexico when she was 3, she felt like a fish out of water, unsure of my abilities and questioning whether I was academically prepared for college work, she said in a recent interview. But a few years later, with an associate degree and more than 100 college units under her belt, Suarez figured out what she wanted to do work with community colleges. Now, with a trifecta of collegiate degrees bachelors and masters in psychology from Cal State Long Beach and a doctorate of philosophy from Loyola University Chicago and 30 years of working with community colleges, Suarez has been named the new president of Orange Coast College in Costa Mesa. Her contract was approved by the Coast Community College District board of trustees on April 17. She will take over July 1 from interim President Kevin Ballinger, who will return to his previous role as vice president of instruction. Suarezs contract is for three years with an annual salary of $232,527. From someone who had no history of higher education, [and] I came here as a child from Mexico, to someone who was able to get a doctorate from Loyola, none of that would have been possible if not for community college and everyone who worked there, Suarez said. She said she had many mentors while attending East L.A. College in Monterey Park and felt she had a lot of support and people that cared about me that made me feel I mattered and I was valued and that they were invested in my education. The community college provided me with an opportunity to break tradition and start a new tradition one that is firmly rooted in higher education as a foundation for changing the trajectory of families and communities, she said. Suarez, who currently is vice president of academic affairs at Southwestern College in Chula Vista, said she was seeking a presidency and knew there were positions available throughout Southern California. She said she did research on some of the openings but felt that Orange Coast College stood out as a place where I could see myself contributing. So, I called the consultant that was doing the [national] search and the rest is history. Angelica Suarez, the next president of Orange Coast College in Costa Mesa, appears April 17 at a Coast Community College District board meeting where her contract was approved. (Courtesy of Orange Coast College) Since Ive been in community colleges, Ive known about OCC and their reputation of excellence, Suarez said. Its the unequivocal focus on student success and the results that they have. ... Over the last 70 years, the pathways they have created are unparalleled. Theyre focused on holistic student support, and its very evident in the work theyve been doing with ... all the renovations. ... Theres definitely a commitment from the governing board, chancellor and community to promote success, and I wanted to be a part of that and be a champion for the college. Recent and ongoing projects at OCC include a new planetarium, aquatic center and student housing complex. Suarezs farewell ceremony at Southwestern College will be Tuesday, though her last day there will be at the end of the month. Angelica has been an amazing leader for Southwestern College, helping us move through several transitions, school President and Supt. Kindred Murillo said in a statement. Her historical perspective of the college and her service to our students will be greatly missed. And we are excited for the impact she will have at Orange Coast College. Suarezs appointment at OCC follows the retirement of former President Dennis Harkins, who was the third-longest serving president in the schools 70-year history. Dr. Suarez is recognized as a collaborative and inspiring leader who is focused on creating equitable and accessible pathways to higher education for all students, Coast Community College District Chancellor John Weispfenning said in a statement following her appointment. She brings a depth and breadth of experience in student services and academic affairs to lead OCC into the future. Suarez said it is important for her to engage with faculty and students on campus so they can share with me what theyre excited about. She said she wants the goals she sets for the campus to mirror those of its community and build on the schools history. One of the things I love to do is get to know the people I work with and have them get to know me as well, Suarez said. Those are things that are absolutely essential. For the campus to thrive, people need to feel invested and empowered. My goals will be informed by the work we do together. Support our coverage by becoming a digital subscriber. It didnt always go smoothly on camera, but a Costa Mesa restaurant hopes its appearance on the Food Network show Restaurant: Impossible will hold great possibilities for its future. Filomenas Italian Kitchen & Market at 2400 Newport Blvd. opened about seven years ago. Though the Eastside neighborhood hangout has had some success, it hasnt been bringing big paydays to Linda Johnsen, who owns it with her husband, Kent. In an interview with the Daily Pilot, Johnsen said she had been contacted by the Food Network for years about several shows. Nothing connected, however, until Restaurant: Impossible, a series that attempts to revive struggling restaurants using 48 hours and $10,000. Filming took place in February. The episode, dubbed Fight at Filomenas, premiered April 27. On the show, host Robert Irvine, an English chef, visits Filomenas and sees little wrong, at least on the surface. He finds the restaurants market side charming and well-designed and the kitchen staff effective. But he soon pinpoints what he sees as the problem: Johnsen, Filomenas chef. He is critical of most of her food and her lack of knowledge of the specifics of Filomenas financial struggles. Johnsen doesnt take Irvines criticism lightly, which leads to a series of heated, sometimes screaming, arguments between the two. Irvine then brings in his design staff, which dramatically revamps the dining area with a bright, rustic touch. He also removes the small corner bar and adds some new menu items. The show ends on a positive note, with Johnsen and her family ecstatic with the makeover. Filomenas Italian Kitchen & Market is pictured after its 48-hour renovation by the Food Network show Restaurant: Impossible. (Courtesy of Filomenas Italian Kitchen & Market) Filomenas is pictured before Restaurant: Impossible revamped the dining area. (Courtesy of Filomenas Italian Kitchen & Market) The conflict the cameras captured during the episode was real, Johnsen said. It was difficult. Im not gonna lie, she said. It was emotional. Johnsen said part of the emotion was in talking to Irvine about her difficult relationship with her stepmother. She also became emotional when, during filming, she was reconnected with her sister, whom she hadnt spoken to in years. Also, her daughter, a fellow restaurateur, was flown in from Northern California. Johnsen said the public reaction to the Restaurant: Impossible changes has been mostly positive, aside from some remarks on social media. As for the future, Johnsen said Irvine has talked of mass-producing Filomenas lasagna, one of the dishes he said he liked. Shes working on a cookbook and a YouTube channel and wants to do more television. I want to show people what I have, Johnsen said. Bradley Zint is a contributor to Times Community News. Support our coverage by becoming a digital subscriber. The critters of Fountain Valleys Reptile Zoo are getting more space to slither. The family-run educational and amusement facility long a destination for birthday parties, field trips and all-around appreciation of reptiles will soon open a new wing that will allow more and bigger enclosures, plus an exhibit that shows the life cycle of a reticulated python from egg to adulthood. Thats not something you can get anywhere else, said brand manager Laura Brewer. The indoor zoo at 18822 Brookhurst St. is moving into adjoining suites, growing from about 8,500 square feet to close to 12,000. The expansion is expected to be open in about a month. The Reptile Zoo has about 600 animals on display representing more than 100 species, mostly of the scaly variety. Many are tame enough for hands-on interaction. Frank, a 7-foot-long Asian water monitor, may be known to Disney Channel viewers as a star of the sitcom Jessie and its spin-off, Bunkd. When hes not shooting in Hollywood, hes at his Reptile Zoo home base, where he calmly sits for selfies. Hes familiar with cameras. Franks neighbor, Darthgator the American alligator, sometimes gets out of his tank and waddles around on land, assuming he has his three handlers present and bands around his jaws. His kind is common along the Gulf Coast but not in Southern California. A little less intimidating is Pancake, a bearded dragon. Shes about a foot long and has what looks like a wide, playful smile. Laura Brewer pets Frank, an Asian water monitor who is one of the Reptile Zoos residents and also is an actor. Brewer is one of his handlers on the Disney Channel show Bunkd. (Photo by Hillary Davis ) In addition to being home to Frank, Darth and Pancake, the Reptile Zoo houses chameleons and caimans, turtles and tortoises (terrapins too), dragons (bearded and water) and monsters (Gila). Frogs, toads, iguanas, skinks, geckos and anoles also live in its wall-to-wall cubbies and tanks, as do tarantulas, scorpions and millipedes. Among the legless residents are plenty of kingsnakes, rat snakes, boas and pythons. Reptile Zoo founder Jay Brewer, Laura Brewers father, is a breeder of reticulated pythons known for his morphs, or color and pattern variations. The Reptile Zoo has been around since 1988, first as a traditional and exotic pet shop. Over time, it came to focus on reptiles. It also has a retail area named Prehistoric Pets. The business reopened last week after being closed to the public for more than three weeks until its expansion-related city permits were in order. That led to some disappointed devotees. But Jay Brewer said hes excited to welcome them back and show them something new. Im a little kid, so Im looking forward to playing with the people who come, he said. hillary.davis@latimes.com Twitter: @Daily_PilotHD The past century has brought many changes, but for Boy Scout Troop 501 time has only deepened traditions established by the groups first founders, who sought to teach young men leadership, resilience and a love of the great outdoors. June 4 will mark the 100th anniversary of the original charter agreement between La Canadas oldest troop and sponsoring organization La Canada Congregational Church, reached just nine years after Boy Scouts of America itself was founded. To recognize the historic occasion, troop members and leaders past and present will hold a centennial celebration on Saturday at 6 p.m. at the church. The free event will include stories and photos from throughout the troops history, a light dinner and scouting demonstrations. It is open to the public. We really want it to be a celebration of thanks to the church for chartering us for 100 years, Troop 501 Scoutmaster Mark Cowdin said Monday. Its been a fantastic opportunity all these years for scouts to learn and grow in that space thats been dedicated by the church. The group meets on Tuesday nights in the churchs basement, which offers a roomy place for scouts to conduct business and perform a range of activities. The area doubles as a kind of troop museum, owing to the presence of the original 1919 charter, historic flags and albums filled with black-and-white vintage photos. Troop 501 Committee Chair Chuck Coleman said its evident from the old pictures that some things, like the uniforms and guidelines, have changed in the past 100 years. El Rey Ensch, front, in a 1955 photograph kept at Boy Scout Troop 501s meeting room at La Canada Congregational Church. A former Scoutmaster, Ensch may attend a centennial celebration being held Saturday at the church. (Tim Berger / La Canada Valley Sun) Some of the photos in the collection, for example, show scouts playing in the ocean during a beach trip, not allowed these days due to liability issues, or building campfires that are today largely prohibited in drought-stricken Southern California forests. On the early bicycle trips, nobody had helmets on, and now who rides a bike without one? Coleman said. Whats defined as safe has changed over the years. But while conventions have evolved, leaders roundly agree Troop 501s foundational activities and beliefs remain the same. The Boy Scout motto, Be prepared, the slogan Do a good turn daily and the 12 Scout laws which encourage boys to embrace loyalty, kindness and reverence, among other character traits are just as present as ever, Coleman assured. Those principals are something a scout may or may not be getting outside of scouts, he said, but its something a scout absorbs and takes with him throughout his entire life. FYI: Troop 501s centennial celebration takes place Saturday at 6 p.m. at La Canada Congregational Church, 1200 Foothill Blvd. RSVP by calling (818) 292-0771. For more, visit troop501.org or email info@troop501.org. Support our coverage by becoming a digital subscriber. The city of La Canada Flintridge will serve as an intermediary between the County Public Works department and residents concerned about the imminent Devils Gate Dam Sediment Removal project, after citizens urged the City Council Tuesday to act on their behalf. Members of community group LCF 4 Healthy Air whod come to an April 16 meeting to ask the council to discuss creating a community safety action plan before the projects mid-May start returned Tuesday with an update on concessions the county has made to minimize the health impacts of the project. In addition to assuring sediment hauler trucks meet 2010 emission standards and placing air quality monitors at La Canada High School and surrounding Hahamongna Watershed Park, the county has pledged to work closely with environmental consultants throughout the projects four-year timeline. LCF 4 Healthy Air co-founder Liz Krider said while much has been accomplished through partnerships, there is still no mechanism in place to establish a pollution threshold and ensure the county will respond efficiently and openly if that threshold is exceeded. READ MORE: Full coverage: Devils Gate Dam sediment removal project Thats why we came back to you again to make that request [of the county] please articulate a plan for when A happens, B happens, Krider said. And have these kinds of action limits founded in best practices so you can adapt the project and maintain safety, instead of just hoping for the best. Public Works deputy director Steve Burger said his department is working with an independent environmental consultant and representatives from the South Coast Air Quality Management District and California Air Resources Board to develop community safety response plan. Once we get the monitoring in place, its really going to inform us what those limits are, Burger said. Were really going into uncharted territory this is something never been done in a project really anywhere in California before. La Canada parents urged city officials to hold the county accountable for keeping its promises and advocate for the use of compressed natural gas hauler trucks by 2020, which would reduce levels of nitrous oxygen (NOx) and particulate matter. We need your help because youre the voice that can communicate to the county for us, said LCUSD parent Octavia Thuss. Your partnership and influence is critical at this time. La Canada city officials compiled a list of questions posed by speakers and promised to follow up. Tonights point is not that were answering the questions but that we are on top of [the county] to make sure the answers are forthcoming, said Councilwoman Terry Walker. Also Tuesday, council members: Introduced an ordinance that would impose penalties on those who use city-maintained fields during off-hours and periods of closure. Staffer Arabo Parseghian said repeat offenders have been known to wreak havoc on grass fields during their unpermitted use of the area, and an ordinance would give the city a means to prevent such violations by imposing a series of fines. A first offense would incur a $100 penalty, while a second and third offense in the same 12-month period would result in fines of $200 and $500, respectively, and a fourth offense would be treated as a misdemeanor. The ordinance would be enforced by the sheriffs department, Parseghian said. After an April 21 break in a 24-inch water pipe operated by Foothill Municipal Water district, an eastbound portion of Foothill Boulevard has visibly sagged and will require immediate structural work, city officials confirmed. (Sara Cardine / La Canada Valley Sun) Heard an update on the recent sinking of an eastbound portion of Foothill Boulevard near Alta Canyada Road, which occurred as the result of an April 21 break in a water main operated by Foothill Municipal Water District. Public Works Director Pat DeChellis said the utility is conducting surveys of the damage and should soon submit plans for raising the roadway to its original grade. Meanwhile, an unrelated pavement repair on Alta Canyada could be completed by the end of the week, weather permitting, DeChellis told council members. Support our coverage by becoming a digital subscriber. Im not going to blindly support anything that I dont completely buy into, St. John said of the expanded liquor sales. The theater is the source of our branding, so anything that happens out there has to reflect well on the village. Manager Brad Ausmus spoke to Albert Pujols and Justin Bour about the squeeze play Wednesday, but the conversation with the Angels first basemen had nothing to do with getting a bunt down with a runner on third base. It was about the squeeze Shohei Ohtani will put on their playing time. The right-handed-hitting Pujols and the left-handed-hitting Bour must accept reduced roles now that Ohtani, who returned from Tommy John surgery Tuesday, will be the teams everyday designated hitter. Albert is going to face all of the left-handers and some of the right-handers, and Bour will face some of the righties, Ausmus said. It will boil down to performance, but playing into that is weve got to keep Albert healthy. Lower-leg and foot injuries limited the 39-year-old Pujols to a combined 34 starts at first base and 265 at DH in 2016 and 2017 and 70 starts at first and 47 at DH in 2018. He has started 13 games at first base this season, including the first two games of the Detroit series, and 18 games at DH. Advertisement Pujols, who entered Wednesday with a .214 average, five homers and 17 RBIs, is expected to start about 60% of the time with Bour, who is batting .169 with three homers and 13 RBIs, starting about 40% of the time. But to preserve Pujols and increase his productivity, the Angels will restrict his time in the field. Ausmus said Pujols will make a third straight start Thursday because the Tigers are calling up left-hander Ryan Carpenter from triple A to pitch, but that will probably be his limit. I generally want to avoid three games in a row, as a rule, but hes going to play [Thursday] with another lefty going, Ausmus said. But he wont play the following day. Im going to be very cognizant of taking care of Alberts knees and keeping him healthy the entire season. Ausmus is also aware of Bours need for regular at-bats to find his timing and rhythm. I hope they both tear the cover off the ball and it becomes an extremely difficult decision for me on a daily basis, Ausmus said. But Ive said it all along, its a performance game, and performance comes into play. Sign up for our daily sports newsletter Rehab report Reliever Keynan Middleton suffered a minor setback in his rehabilitation from Tommy John surgery last week but has resumed throwing at 70 feet. He had a day where he was excited about how his arm felt and pushed the gas pedal down a little farther and had some elongated soreness afterward, general manager Billy Eppler said. It took a week to calm down, and the soreness is gone. In talking to the physical therapists here and at Kerlan-Jobe, its very rare that a pitcher does not have a bout of arm soreness or a setback in Tommy John rehab. JC Ramirez, who is also recovering from Tommy John surgery, has progressed to throwing two innings of live batting practice. Both he and Middleton are expected to return by late June or early July. Left-hander Andrew Heaney (elbow inflammation) is scheduled to throw three innings and 45 pitches in an extended spring training game in Arizona on Friday and could start a rehab assignment with a minor league affiliate after that. Top outfield prospect Jo Adell, who suffered a right-ankle sprain and left-hamstring strain in spring training, has begun taking at-bats in simulated games but is not running yet. He is scheduled to begin playing in extended spring games next week. mike.digiovanna@latimes.com @MikeDiGiovanna Federico Higuain broke Columbus career assist record in the first half and added a goal in the second in the Crews 3-1 victory over the Los Angeles Galaxy on Wednesday night. Columbus (5-6-1) snapped a five-game losing streak, avoiding tying the club record. Los Angeles (7-3-1) lost back-to-back games for the first time since last September. It hasnt won in Columbus since 2011. Higuain, in his eighth season with Columbus, got his 62nd assist on a long pass to Robinho, who sent it across goal for a redirection from Gyasi Zardes in the 27th minute. Early in the second half, Higuain connected with Zardes on a give-and-go for his first goal in 11 games. Hector Jimenez made it 3-0 in the 66th minute by knocking home a loose ball in front of the net for his first goal in five years. It was the Crews first three-goal game since July against the New York Red Bulls. Advertisement Los Angeles scored in the 87th when Daniel Steres tapped home Sebastian Lletgets corner kick. Fifty-two. Thats the number of times we check our smartphones each day, according to CNet, citing Deloittes 2018 Global Mobile Consumer Survey. That number was 47 the year before. Heres how many times Larry Bleiberg checked his phone during his trip to the Alaskan wilderness: zero. Advertisement Bleiberg was 100 miles north of the Arctic Circle to write and report the story that leads this weeks newsletter. The scenery and wildlife are the prime reasons for taking the trip, he said in an email, but there was an unexpected benefit: a glorious (and increasingly rare) feeling of being literally off the grid. The guides had a radio, but it was not used. The feeling of isolation and disconnection from headlines, tweets and emails was almost therapeutic, he said. Each day away from the electronic chatter that makes up our lives, I could feel my head clearing. My name is Catharine Hamm, and Im the travel editor for the Los Angeles Times. We know that travel opens our eyes to new ideas, to different perspectives, to other ways of living, but its also a chance to reevaluate the way we live our own lives, what holds us back and what propels us forward. Could you do a digital detox? Im not sure I could. Im also not sure I could do what Scott Kraft did: climb the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge, even though I dont have a fear of heights. (Although when youre up that high, Im guessing you could develop it.) But thats another benefit of travel: It asks you to step outside yourself. Before I get too woo-woo, let me direct you to a few other articles that may delight you (a Weekend Escape in Amador County), annoy you (the new federal government report that tells how many mobility devices airlines mishandled in December and January), give you cause for celebration (a special birthday in Las Vegas) and so much more. Travel is the gift that keeps on giving. Alaska, unplugged Larry Bleiberg grew up in Washington, D.C., but says he is a wilderness guy. (Coincidence?) In any case, his beautifully written article about being completely, stunningly enveloped by nature in the 6.5-million-acre Noatak National Preserve, complete with bears and caribou, made me want to pack a bag, and Im not a wilderness person. A grizzly checks out the group in Alaskas Noatak National Preserve. (Larry Bleiberg) Top of the World, Ma Scott Kraft has an adventurous side that often manifests itself in quick trips to exotic places. (India for the weekend? But of course.) This time, he and travel buddies took in Sydney, Australia, which included a climb of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Its great fun, unless, of course, you hate heights. Climbers during the descent at sunset of BridgeClimb Sydney. (BridgeClimb Sydney) Zin for the win The rich history of Amador Countys winemaking leads to an even richer result. Follow Michele Bigleys quest for a bottle of that amazing Zinfandel, which leads her to a not-your-aunts-B-and-B and a dinner that included mushroom cigars. The Tasting Room at Vino Noceto, which is called the Barn. The Noceto family re-created the Barn in the likeness and in honor of the original structure. (Vino Noceto) Seeing the world without moving a muscle People who collect countries, each new one visited earning a notch on their imaginary belt, are fascinating and afforded opportunities the rest of us may never have. But that doesnt mean we cant see the world. April Orcutt describes how the globe unfolds in flying theaters, which are growing in popularity and show you what you may only dream about. Flying theaters give the sensation of soaring, but its only an illusion a popular one. This Is Holland is one of several around the world. (Composite image from This Is Holland) 60 and fabulous Its often said that a woman who would tell her age would tell you anything. But a sign is supposed to tell you something so its not a surprise that it has copped to being 60. Happy birthday to a Vegas icon that just gets better with age. Read the story by Jay Jones about the quirky icon thats not even really in Las Vegas. Two elephants and several performers from the former Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus pose in front of the sign in 2012. (Darrin Bush / Las Vegas News Bureau) The new face of Hawaii Island Its been a little more than a year since Kilauea volcano erupted on the island of Hawaii, an event that shook, literally and figuratively, the largest of the islands. The day was marked with a quiet observance, but it was a time for many to reflect on the forces of nature and how they have altered an island considered sacred, Jay Jones writes. Kilauea volcano on the island of Hawaii erupted dramatically last year, shown here on June 5, 2018. (U.S. Geological Survey) New report paints a troubling picture Twenty-six people a day lose their ability to move, says Shaun Castle, deputy executive director for the Paralyzed Veterans of America. Thats information gleaned from reports that airlines now file detailing how many wheelchair and other mobility devices are mishandled, Yomi Wrong reports in All Systems Go. This information may help travelers choose which airline to fly based on these new-to-the-public reports. Fliers now can learn which airlines have the worst rates of mishandling wheelchairs and other mobility devices. (kokouu / Getty Images) What were reading Imagine wanting to hang out at an airport. Thats the case for Tampa International Airport in Florida, which offers passes to shopping and dining options beyond security checkpoints. Its only on Saturdays for now, but people are snapping up the op like, well, hotcakes, Gabrielle Calise reports for the Tampa Bay Times. I like the way Avital Andrews thinks. (Im cheating a little bit because I know her, and I know her work, so this isnt new news for me.) But in her Smarter Travel article The 9 Worst Decisions You Can Make on a Cruise, she notes that taking work with you is not only violating the spirit of what a vacation is supposed to be but also is unfair to the people youre traveling with. Read about the eight other sins you may wittingly or unwittingly commit. Slip on a sweater. Youll get chills reading Darmon Richters account in Atlas Obscuras look at Chernobyl, the Ukrainian nuclear site that melted down in April 1986. About 60,000 people visited in 2017, but now, restrictions have tightened. You can see in the photos how nature has taken over in what was the worst nuclear disaster in history. An aerial photo of the concrete-and-steel sarcophagus that entombs reactor No. 4 at the Chernobyl nuclear power plant, taken July 23, 1998, in Chernobyl, Ukraine. (Efrem Lukatsky / Associated Press) Why read, where to read, why we love what we do Ill start with the last part of that sentence fragment why we love what we do. I do not know of a greater pleasure than serving readers, especially travelers who are a special affinity group. Then theres also the spark of I was there. It does happen, as detailed in an email from Renate Mai-Dalton, a professor at the University of Kansas. She was reading Lynn Yus article on Chongqing food and, well, Ill let her tell you the story. Just having been in Chongqing a few weeks ago, the article was amazing, she wrote. It even showed the exact building where we had our hot pot! Its a nice city to get to know better and easiest to access when you come from the Yangtze River cruise, as we did. Mai-Dalton, now a Southern Californian, was one of my professors at KU, so we do have that connection. But the newsletter, which we relaunched about a year ago, also gives her and other readers a chance to catch up or browse. You can subscribe to the newsletter and others from the Los Angeles Times for free. One other thing to consider: subscribing to the Los Angeles Times digitally or on paper or both. If you buy a digital subscription, youll hop right over that pay wall. A print subscription means you can get that tactile experience and digital access. Either way, you are supporting an organization that supports your desire to be part of this community. Thank you. (And, no, nobody told me to say this.) End paper One of my other college professors used to tell me this: There is no good writing. There is only good rewriting. I still teach that in writing seminars. Im pretty sure shes smiling as I rewrite this newsletter. About 7 Tuesday evening, my Word program crashed and took with it everything Id done for the newsletter the last two days even though I have my Word programmed to save every minute. The only thing that was there was the item about the Tampa airport, which I wrote Monday. Oh, well. Which I can say not because I dont wish I had the time back but because I will be on an airplane about the time this is delivered to your inbox. Its a business trip, so theres that work thing. But theres also something about a change of scenery that gives the spirits a jolt and a lift. And it helps if youre going somewhere you truly love, and I am. Eric Barker writes in The Science of Having a Great Vacation that it isnt always the fact of travel; its the anticipation of it that is much of the pleasure. Believe it or not, anticipating your vacation can be even more enjoyable than the trip itself, he writes. (Booking early, he adds, lengthens the love fest.) In my dotage, Ive learned that important lesson and one other: Love where youre going; dont hate what youre leaving. Thats true of any life event a move, a job change, a vacation. We all need to get away from what drives us crazy in our workaday lives, but if we are reaching out with arms open, ready to embrace what we are moving toward, whatever it is is apt to hug us back. I am not walking away from a week of clogged sewer lines, unexpected vet bills, a surprise visit to the local emergency room. I am moving toward a place where some of my happiest memories dwell, where theres a chocolate outlet store (Yes! Good chocolate for less!) and where the trill of a meadowlark on a spring morning is as sweet as any symphony. How lucky I am to be moving toward my hearts delight. Wherever your bliss leads you, remember to travel safely and well and well be here to welcome you home. travel@latimes.com @latimestravel Thailands military appointed the election commissioners. It repeatedly postponed voting day. Its leading opponents were hit with court cases or disqualified altogether, and the night before the election Thailands king appeared to endorse the army-backed incumbent. With all that help, the military prevailed barely. Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha appeared likely Thursday to retain his position after the election commission, using a controversial formula for apportioning parliamentary seats, left an anti-military coalition just short of a majority in the lower house after Thailands first election in eight years. Advertisement Days removed from an ostentatious royal coronation that was designed to unify Thailand, official results from the March election showed a country still bitterly divided and seemingly headed for another period of political instability. Analysts said the military-backed party headed by Prayuth, a former general who has been in power since launching a coup in 2014, would join with a smattering of smaller parties to cobble together the narrowest of majorities in the 500-seat lower house. The Palang Pracharat party was expected to lead a wobbly coalition of up to 20 parties including many with just one lawmaker that together would control 254 seats in the lower house. Combined with 250 seats the military appoints in the upper house which is not subject to popular vote Prayuth had a clear path to holding on to the prime ministers job. The ex-military man had sought to legitimize his position with an election after the longest period of military rule in Thailands modern history. But analysts said the slim majority in the lower house would probably mean a shaky government that would struggle to pass legislation and might not hold together for more than a year or two. That would make it difficult for Thailand to tackle its sluggish economic growth and heal the divisions of more than a decade marked by coups, street protests and shrinking democratic space. The biggest challenge is how they survive, said Prajak Kongkirati, an assistant political science professor at Bangkoks Thammasat University. Maintaining political stability will be the biggest concern of the new government. The largest opposition party, Pheu Thai, said it would mount a legal challenge to the election commissions convoluted formula for determining parliamentary seats, which was being used for the first time and remained little understood to most Thais. After initial results from the March 24 vote, Pheu Thai said that it had formed a coalition of seven parties that opposed a continuation of military rule, and that together they held a small majority 255 seats in the lower house. But under results endorsed by the election commission late Wednesday, the anti-military groupings tally dropped to 245 seats. Thats because Thailand has two types of lawmakers: those elected by constituencies and a smaller number elected from party lists based on how many overall votes the parties receive. With its 250 upper house seats, Palang Pracharat needed to win only 126 lower house seats to have a majority in the combined body. The election commissions results gave the party 115 seats 11 short of what it needed. And the commission, without explanation, assigned 11 seats to small parties that each had only one lawmaker, and were seen as likely to join the military coalition. The election results have been unfair chiefly due to the fact that the formula used to calculate and allocate party-list MP seats has been changed from what people assumed prior to the election, said Pravit Rojanaphruk, a senior Thai journalist and staff writer for the Khaosod news site. Thailand is entering a new chapter with the junta masquerading as a legitimate regime. The results set the stage for a period of horse-trading and political games before parliament convenes for the first time May 23, with the prime minister to be chosen in early June. Prajak, the analyst, said that the military would be able to offer large amounts of cash or intimidate lawmakers from the smaller parties to get them to join its coalition. There will be inducements, Prajak said. During the election campaign, many parties were approached with generous offers of 50 million baht [$1.57 million] to switch to Prayuth. Court cases still hang over leading anti-military figures, and if they are disqualified it could lead to even more seats sliding into the pro-military camp. Thai politics in the last two decades has been a two-horse race between pro-military establishment parties and former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, a telecommunications tycoon whose parties were ousted by coups in 2006 and 2014. But this election saw the entrance of a charismatic new opposition figure, Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit, the 40-year-old scion of an auto parts empire. Thanathorns brand-new party captured the third-most votes after Palang Pracharat and Pheu Thai and holds 80 seats, making it a powerful member of the anti-military coalition. Future Forward party leader Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit founded the most popular new political force in Thailand. (Lillian Suwanrumpha / AFP/Getty Images) Thanathorns Future Forward party appealed to Thailands many young first-time voters who account for about 14% of the 51 million people eligible to cast ballots by pledging to introduce welfare programs financed by cutting the substantial military budget. That made Thanathorn a target of the pro-army establishment. He has been charged in two criminal cases, including one for sedition, that he claims are political sabotage. In a statement Thursday on his Facebook page, Thanathorn renewed his calls for lawmakers to turn off the senators switch, asking all anti-military lawmakers to band together to keep Palang Pracharat from achieving 126 lower house seats. The election commissioners have defended their counting formula, saying it was derived from Germany. On Thai social media, the math has been the butt of jokes. If they were assigned any responsibility for this election system, Prajak said, Germans would be furious. Taiwans major shipbuilder has broken ground on a factory aimed at producing submarines to blunt threats from China while easing dependence on politically sensitive arms sales from the West. Shipbuilder CSBC Corp. Taiwan will work with the Taiwanese navy to initially develop a $3.3-billion submarine at the factory in the southern port city Kaohsiung, scheduled to be completed next year after last weeks groundbreaking. A prototype of the diesel-electric submarine, a first for Taiwan, is due as early as 2024. Taiwans aging fleet of four submarines, two from the United States and two from the Netherlands, cannot keep up with the military modernization of China, only 100 miles away across a narrow strait. Although Chinas armed forces are ranked third-strongest in the world after the United States and Russia by the military tracking website GlobalFirepower.com, analysts say Taiwan could fend off some attacks through asymmetric warfare. The term normally refers to the use of unconventional strategies or arms against an enemy with more overall firepower. The website ranks Taiwans armed forces at No. 22, and its submarines are 30 to 70 years old. Advertisement Taiwan and China have been separately ruled since civil war in the 1940s, when the losing Nationalists fled the mainland for the island. China has continued to claim sovereignty over Taiwan and has threatened to use force if needed to reach its goal of unification. More than 80% of Taiwanese citizens oppose unifying with China, the government said in January. The submarines will not only enhance the navys asymmetric fighting ability, but to deploy them in waters to our islands southwest and northeast can make us more effective in deterring enemy ships from surrounding Taiwan, President Tsai Ing-wen said Thursday at the groundbreaking ceremony. To produce our own is the only route to take, she said. Taiwan needs new diesel-electric submarines in the event of a sea blockade to break through the blockade, said David An, senior research fellow with the policy incubator Global Taiwan Institute in Washington, D.C. The submarine may take more than a decade to develop and cost $10 billion for up to 10 vessels, An said. The United States, Taiwans chief arms supplier with three deals approved under President Trump, no longer makes diesel-electric subs. The Netherlands wont sell more because of pressure from China, Tsai said in her speech. The U.S. only produces nuclear-powered subs, so the United States will not be able to sell submarines to Taiwan and no other country will be willing to sell a submarine, so we have to do it ourselves, said Alex Chiang, an international relations professor at National Chengchi University in Taipei. Arms sales to Taiwan are touchy because they displease China. Past U.S. presidents attempting to get along with Beijing approved sales less often than Trump. Taiwan has permits, however, to import technologies for its own subs, Tsai said. Last year, the U.S. government agreed to give American defense contractors marketing licenses to initiate sharing the submarine technology sought by Taiwans Defense Ministry. Long dependent on heavy industry, Taiwan has developed its own military hardware since the 1980s and Tsai has made such work a higher priority since taking office in 2016. Taiwan has also come up with aircraft, as well as antiship, surface-to-air and air-to-air missiles in the past. And a domestic defense contractor is scheduled to release an air force trainer jet prototype later this year. Jennings is a special correspondent. China sends warning to Taiwan in the form of live-fire military drills Thailands election commission on Wednesday announced the final results of the March 24 general election the first since a military coup in 2014 that gave no party an absolute majority and probably will prompt legal challenges. The commission distributed 150 party list seats in the 500-member House of Representatives under a complicated formula related to each partys nationwide popular vote total. Twenty-six parties were granted seats, 14 of them one apiece, while one seat was held open pending a revote in a constituency whose winning candidate was disqualified. The commissions failure to clearly explain its formula had led to suspicions it might fiddle with the total. It has already been heavily criticized for releasing delayed and confusing preliminary vote totals, and was accused of tilting in favor of the military-backed Palang Pracharat party. Palang Pracharat was awarded 18 party list seats Wednesday, while the rival Pheu Thai party associated with fugitive former Prime Minster Thaksin Shinawatra received none. Advertisement On Tuesday, each party was allocated its share of the 350 constituency seats. Pheu Thai topped the field by winning 136 constituencies, while Palang Pracharat was second with 97 seats, though it received the most popular votes. Neither party received a majority, and both are attempting to put together coalitions with smaller parties to form a government. The explanation of the party list formula released by the election commission before the polls, as generally understood, would have denied seats to many of the smaller parties that received seats Wednesday. The formula as applied Wednesday instead benefited them, at the apparent expense of parties allied with Pheu Thai. Pheu Thai said in a statement that the election commission deliberately intended to commit wrongdoing and misused its power, violating the constitution and the law. The party will later take legal measures in every aspect against the EC. Everything is already decided: Thailands army is set to cement power with an election The Future Forward party, which ranks third in seats and shares Pheu Thais anti-military stance, has agreed to join it in a coalition. It also complained about the election commissions actions, which lowered its seat total to 80 from a projected 87. Party Secretary-General Piyabutr Saengkanokkul called the commissions calculations absurd. Prayuth Chan-ocha, who as army commander staged the 2014 coup and since then has served as prime minister, is Palang Pracharats candidate to continue in that position. Prayuth should easily be able to return to office because the prime minister will be selected by a joint vote of the lower house and the appointed Senate, which represents conservative interests and essentially will be chosen by the military junta. But he will have a hard time if his foes control the lower house. Thailand has been under military rule since 2014, when the military ousted a government led by Pheu Thai. The party is the main vehicle for supporters of Thaksin, a billionaire who became prime minister in 2001 with populist policies that won him support among the less well-off rural majority. His popularity threatened the influence of Thailands traditional ruling class, led by the military and conservative royalists. He was ousted by a 2006 coup amid accusations of corruption and abuse of power and went into exile to avoid going to prison on a conflict of interest conviction. The coup set off a long and sometimes violent battle for power between his supporters and opponents, and 2014s military takeover ousted a government formed by his sister, Yingluck Shinawatra. The military generals that took power instituted changes in the constitution and election law to try to prevent a comeback by Thaksins loyalists. Several nations on Thursday condemned the arrest by Venezuelan government intelligence officers of a high-level politician associated with opposition leader Juan Guaido, calling the move by President Nicolas Maduro arbitrary and unconstitutional. The arrest came a week after a failed attempt by Guaido and his supporters to get the nations military to rise up against Maduro. For the record: An earlier version of this report referred to Adm. Craig Faller as Craig Fuller. Edgar Zambrano, one of the opposition-controlled National Assemblys two vice presidents, was arrested Wednesday night in east Caracas as he left his partys headquarters. After Zambrano refused to leave his car, which security officials had surrounded, the vehicle was towed to an undisclosed location with Zambrano inside. Advertisement Zambrano managed to send a message over social media during the confrontation, saying officials were using a tow truck to forcibly transport us to the Helicoide, a prison in south Caracas used to house political prisoners. Assembly members have immunity to prosecution under the Venezuelan Constitution but the Maduro-controlled constitutional assembly, a rival congress set up to neuter the power of the lawfully elected National Assembly, stripped Zambrano and six other members of that legal shield on Tuesday. Three more assembly members lost their immunity Wednesday. Hours before the arrest, the Maduro-controlled Supreme Court charged Zambrano and the nine other assembly members with treason, conspiracy and rebellion, among other charges, in connection with April 30 demonstrations in which Guaido unsuccessfully called upon the armed forces to abandon Maduro and support him as Venezuelas leader. Guaido, the National Assembly president, in January declared himself the poverty-stricken countrys interim president, saying Maduros presidency was illegitimate because of a fraudulent election. Guaido is backed by more than 50 nations, including the United States. In a statement Thursday, the Lima Group, a coalition of 14 countries that share an interest in the Venezuelan crisis, said Zambranos arrest is an affront to democratic principles and human rights recognized by international law. Several countries in the Lima Group have absorbed thousands of Venezuelan refugees who have fled the country in recent years. The arrest is null and void because according to the Venezuelan constitution the only organ that can lift legislative immunity is the National Assembly, the statement said. U.S. Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo called the arrest an unacceptable and illegal act that is yet another reflection of the repression of the former Maduro regime. This assault on the National Assembly should serve as a clarion call to the region and the world that the dictatorship is not interested in constitutional solutions to the Venezuelan peoples problems, Pompeo said in a statement. Zambrano must be released immediately. The place where Zambrano said he was being taken, the Helicoide, is an unfinished complex of office buildings that was converted into a prison of the national secret police, known by its Spanish initials, SEBIN. Other political prisoners taken there have been tortured, human rights groups allege. Guaido said Wednesday night that repression and fear would not defeat us. The regime persecutes us because now it doesnt govern, doesnt have authority or respect. Its only answer is to persecute those who dare to show their faces, Guaido said during a rally in Vargas state. As of midday Thursday, none of the other nine assembly members charged with treason and rebellion was known to have been arrested. Among those charged is Henry Ramos Allup, who held Guaidos job as National Assembly president in 2016. Zambrano was arrested shortly after the U.S. lifted sanctions against SEBINs former director Manuel Ricardo Cristopher Figuera, who is believed to have been the official who authorized the release of opposition leader Leopoldo Lopez from house arrest on the morning of April 30, allowing him to take part in protests against Maduro. Figueras whereabouts are unknown. Michael Dobson, former senior sanctions policy advisor in the U.S. Treasury Departments Office of Foreign Assets Control, said the sanctions were lifted because Figuera recently broke ranks with the embattled president. White House scrambles on Venezuela after major setback The U.S. lifted sanctions on former Venezuelan spy chief Gen. Manuel Cristopher Figuera this week, seeking to encourage further defections from Pres. Maduros regime, Dobson said in an email to The Times. Lopez, a former Caracas borough mayor and leading opposition figure, was arrested and jailed in 2014 on suspicion of inciting violence and placed under house arrest in 2017. Maduro wants Lopez rearrested, but he has taken refuge as a guest in the Spanish Embassy in Caracas. Also on Wednesday, Venezuelan Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino rejected U.S. Southern Command chief Adm. Craig Fallers recent call on Venezuelas military to back Guaido. Adm. Faller, dont underestimate the military honor that accepts neither blackmail manipulation, intimidation, nor the deceptive offers from imperial agents and their puppets, Padrino said Wednesdayon state TV. Special correspondents Mogollon and Kraul reported from Caracas and Bogota, Colombia, respectively. Staff writer Tracy Wilkinson in Washington contributed to this report. Elgin is one of the top locations in the Chicago industrial market, said Matt Kurucz, managing director of Crow Holdings Industrials Chicago office. The city is poised to lure more businesses from other communities due to its proximity to Interstate 90 and taxes and rents that are lower than surrounding counties, he said. The United Nations (UN) on Thursday, May 9, appointed the emir of Kano, Malam Muhammad Sanusi II, as a member of the new class of Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) advocates. Legit.ng understands that the UN secretary-general, Antonio Guterres made the announcement through his spokesperson, Farhan Haq, at a news conference in New York. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the SDG advocates are 17 influential public figures committed to raising awareness, inspiring greater ambition, and pushing for faster action on the SDGs. READ ALSO: NAIJ.com upgrades to Legit.ng: a letter from our Editor-in-Chief Bayo Olupohunda The report said Sanusi is one of the six new members of the group, which is co-chaired by President Nana Akufo-Addo of Ghana and the prime minister of Norway, Erna Solberg. The other five new members, according to the report, are Hindou Ibrahim of Chad, Dia Mirza of India, Edward Ndopu of South Africa, Nadia Murad of Iraq and Marta Vieira da Silva of Brazil. Haq said the six new members would take over from the previous six who had been made SDG advocate alumni. "The secretary-general looks forward to working with the group over the coming years to advance the SDGs, he said. Legit.ng earlier reported that Sanusi Lamido Sanusi was recently appointed as a member of the board of directors for MTN, a telecommunications giant. The emir who was a former governor of Central Bank of Nigeria was welcomed to his new job by other new directors to the board, the outgoing group chairman, Phuthuma Nhleko. However, hours after Governor Abdullahi Ganduje promised to sign the bill seeking to split Kano emirate into five, the states lawmakers passed it instructing that it should be transmitted to the head of the executive arm for assent. READ ALSO: Adeleke reacts to Court of Appeal judgement, says people's will won't be truncated With the passing of the local government and chieftaincy affairs law, the lawmakers have now decentralized the Kano emirate council giving the status of first class to the new ones. NAIJ.com (naija.ng) -> Legit.ng. We have upgraded to serve you better. I need a job to feed my family - father of four | Legit TV Source: Legit.ng The first credit cards for the East Aurora Educational Foundation were issued a year ago, and generated about $900 in the first few months, foundation President Bill Deligiannis said. The amount of their next payment should be much higher because awareness of the program is growing, he said. A thief or thieves hit a Bethlehem Township construction site this past weekend off of Freemansburg Avenue, township police said. Metal roofing, scaffolding, appliances and construction materials were taken sometime between last Friday and Monday from the Madison Farms development under construction in the 2400 and 2500 block of Raya Way. Police released a photo of a white pickup truck that was seen backed up to one of the residences. Construction personnel did not recognize the truck, police said. Anyone with information about the thefts or the pictured truck should contact Officer John Meehan at 610-419-8250 or via email at jmeehan@bethlehemtwp.com. Anonymous tips can be texted to 888777 with TIP BETHLEHEMTWP and then the message. The sites construction manager said while there is some work done on the site over the weekends, residents should not see people loading and removing materials during those times. Anyone who sees suspicious activity in the area should call 911, police said. Sarah Cassi may be reached at scassi@lehighvalleylive.com. Follow her on Twitter @SarahCassi. Find lehighvalleylive.com on Facebook. We now know just where the public wont be allowed to go when Martin Tower implodes around 7 a.m. on Sunday, May 19. Bethlehem officials released a map of the demolition exclusion zone to the press Thursday ahead of two meetings focused on answering questions related to the implosion. The first meeting at 3 p.m. is for stakeholders, media and elected officials; the second is for the general public at 6 p.m. at Nitschmann Middle School. Any property owners and residents within the exclusion zone have already been personally contacted, according to officials. The exclusion zone will extend from the the Route 378 on/off ramps at the south, through the center of the Lowes parking lot, up along Ralston Road to Richard Avenue at the north, down Schoenersville Road and into the woods alongside Burnside Plantation. The majority of the tower is anticipated to fall within the buildings footprint and immediately to the southeast. Here is where Martin Tower is expected fall after its imploded.Courtesy city of Bethlehem Timeline of road closures 5:00am Bethlehem Police will close Eighth Avenue from Union Boulevard to Bradford Street. 5:00am Bethlehem Police will close Eaton Avenue from Elizabeth Avenue to Ralston Road. 5:00am Bethlehem Police will close Route 378 North and South Exit Ramps at Eighth Avenue. 6:00am the Exclusion Zone surrounding the site will be closed to the public. 6:30am Bethlehem Police will begin closing Route 378 from Catasauqua Road to the Main Street Ramp. 7:00am approximately, as safety and preparations permit, Martin Tower will be demolished by implosion. 7:10am an assessment will be made by members of the project team to determine clean up activities prior to opening any roadways. Any unaffected roadways will be reopened after inspection by Bethlehem Police Department. It is estimated that by mid-morning all public rights of way will be open and the exclusion zone lifted. Road detours Southbound Route 378: Take the Catasauqua Road exit to Pennsylvania Avenue to Broad Street to Third Avenue and get back on the highway. Northbound Route 378: Main Street Ramp to Market Street to Center Street to Route 22. Sara K. Satullo may be reached at ssatullo@lehighvalleylive.com. Follow her on Twitter @sarasatullo and Facebook. Find lehighvalleylive.com on Facebook. Theres a contingent of Bethlehem residents who arent excited to see Martin Tower come down next weekend. But thats not because theyre attached to the 21-story former Bethlehem Steel Corp. world headquarters. Theyre very worried about what the implosion of the tower is going to put in the air and theyre sharply critical of what they characterized as the slow trickle of demolition-related information. On Tuesday night, a handful of concerned residents pressed Bethlehem City Council to answer a long list of health and safety questions about the demolition. And Councilwoman Paige Van Wirt pressed the administration to get a long list of questions on the Gadfly blog -- run by resident Ed Gallagher -- answered in a written form for members of the public to digest ahead of Thursday nights public meeting about the May 19 demolition at Nitschmann Middle School. These are legitimate health concerns, Van Wirt said. City Emergency Management Coordinator Bob Novatnack promised to do his best to get the questions answered. His office has fielded about 100 inquiries from citizens, which officials tried to address in an FAQ put on on Tuesday. It seems like everything is in line as it should have been to this point other than the amount of communication that should come back to the public, Council President Adam Waldron said. ...Hopefully, (the meeting) will rest a lot of fears that folks have. Mayor Bob Donchez told residents that the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection will have four representatives at the meeting, including two from the mining division. Hes requested Gov. Tom Wolf also send a representative from the Department of Health to assuage resident concerns about air quality and water contamination following the demolition. Representatives from Controlled Demolition Inc., the company tasked with taking down the National Historic landmark, and the environmental abatement team will also be on hand. Novatnack said he planned to make a presentation and open the floor up to questions for as long as it takes. A team met with the press on Tuesday to try to answer the most common questions and assure the public the implosion will be safe. The group is going around to affected property owners and businesses for individual meetings to discuss the demo plan and steps they can take to mitigate the dust. Controlled Demolition expects a plume of light dust to be in the air for up to six minutes, which should then settle to the ground and be cleaned. The demolition crew will utilize industrial-strength water misters and sprayers to control the dust and line sewers and drains to catch any runoff. All of the asbestos and interior furnishings have been removed from the tower ahead of the demo leaving a shell of concrete and steel remaining. This should lessen the amount of dust produced, but tearing down a 525,000-square-foot concrete building is going to produce dust, said Jim Santoro, of Controlled Demolition Inc. He noted that the ongoing demolition of tower outbuildings has been creating dust for months. Resident Al Wurth said he doesnt recommend that anyone be outside when the tower comes down. He cannot believe the Lehigh Valleys tallest building -- a monument to the company that built the worlds skyscrapers -- is being destroyed so it can be replaced by something so generic. I am still sort of astounded that Martin Tower is going to be demolished, he said. The propertys owner and developer HRP Management LLC has hired a third party firm to conduct particulate and asbestos air quality monitoring before, during and after the implosion. Resident Marty Romeril questioned why there was still no exclusion map available to the public -- it is going to be released Thursday -- and laid out a long list of questions he hopes to ask on Thursday. He wanted to know the anticipated radius of the dust cloud, will it be half a kilometer, a kilometer? He questioned how big the dust particles will be because that will impact how long the dust stays around. Nobody knows, he said. Its a secret. City resident and forensic pathologist Steve Diamond has seen what asbestos can do to the body. He remains very concerned that the taxpayers of Bethlehem will end up paying for this decision to implode the Lehigh Valleys tallest building with their health and money. Councilman Bryan Callahan disagreed with the contention that citizens have been left out of the loop regarding the Martin Tower demolition. He argued that the majority of people feel so comfortable with the demolition that many people will be getting up early in the morning to watch it without fear and have total confidence in the professionals as he does. Councilman J. William Reynolds said this is not a matter of folks distrusting the citys word, but this is a new experience for most and they have questions that must be answered effectively. I dont know of the last time anybody imploded a building of this size," Reynolds said. Sara K. Satullo may be reached at ssatullo@lehighvalleylive.com. Follow her on Twitter @sarasatullo and Facebook. Find lehighvalleylive.com on Facebook. The Pennsylvania Department of Heath is going to evaluate air quality data collected before, during and after the May 19 demolition of Martin Tower. The monitoring will be conducted by a private company hired by the owner of the 53-acre campus, HRP Management LLC. State health officials released a flier Thursday afternoon addressing health concerns related to the implosion of the former Bethlehem Steel Corp. world headquarters. All of the asbestos-related materials have been removed from the building as required and steps have been taken to limit the amount of dust, like removing all of the interior structures, the flier notes. The demolition team is also setting up barriers on the floors with explosives to try to contain the dust. (The demolition) can release dust and other contaminants into the air, decreasing the air quality temporarily, the flier states. The Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and the contractors doing the demolition have taken precautions to protect the community during and after the demolition. If needed, the department can review hospital emergency room records to identify any increases in respiratory-related health issues in the days after the demo. Residents concerned about potential exposure to dust and other airborne demolition contaminants have contacted both city and state officials. The health department sought to calm those fears and offer suggestions. If the dust-control measures are ineffective, those outside near the tower may be temporarily exposed to contaminants. Short-term exposure to the demolition-related contaminants, such as dust and particulate matter, are not expected to cause long-term, harmful health effects, the flier states. Temporary effects, such as throat irritation and coughing, are possible. People with pre-existing respiratory conditions could experience more severe short-lived effects, such as an asthma attack. What can you do to prevent exposure? Stay inside with windows and doors closed for at least 30 minutes to one hour after the demolition, depending on weather conditions. If possible, turn off your homes fresh air intake system before the demolition. Stay upwind of the demolition if you choose to remain outside. Wear an N95 respirator if you choose to stay outside. N95 respirators can be purchased at your local hardware store. If you have any questions, contact the health department at env.health.concern@pa.gov. Sara K. Satullo may be reached at ssatullo@lehighvalleylive.com. Follow her on Twitter @sarasatullo and Facebook. Find lehighvalleylive.com on Facebook. A proposal to eliminate a written exam for one of two management posts in the Easton Fire Department sparked a debate Wednesday about running afoul of state law and fears of nepotism in the appointment process. City council delayed a planned vote on eliminating the written examination, and relying solely on an oral interview, in selecting a deputy fire chief. Easton has been without a deputy fire chief since Kevin Arnold retired earlier this year. The discussion comes as the city is bracing for more departures in the 45-person fire department, which has 25 firefighters eligible to retire. Toward filling any new vacancies, the city administration plans to ask council May 22 to approve three new firefighter positions. Following an agility test last weekend for a new class of recruits, 72 applicants passed to move on to the written test, the results of which are expected back Friday, fire Chief Mike Krill said during a council committee meeting Tuesday. This year's firefighter hiring process drew 119 applicants, compared to 43 last time, after a number of changes aimed at drawing more interest, city Human Resources Manager Stefanie Weber said. The city has exhausted the previous list of five recruits eligible for hiring. Councilman Peter Melan raised his concerns at Wednesday night's council meeting about eliminating the written test for appointing a new deputy chief, who Mayor Sal Panto Jr. said is the department's only manager aside from the chief. Relying on only an oral interview for the deputy chief hiring was the recommendation of the city's civll service board, Panto said. Melan said state law outlines the need for both written and oral examinations, and council asked for a city solicitor's opinion in time for the next meeting on whether the written test can be cut. Melan was concerned that in the close-knit world of police, fire and EMS, that there is little to prevent someone from recommending a deputy chief candidate if the written examination is eliminated as a way of ensuring the most qualified candidate is considered for promotion. "Allowing just for an oral exam introduces more nepotism now," Melan said. Panto was taken aback by the hypothetical accusation, saying: I dont think nepotism exists in city hall, so how would it exist in the police department or fire department? The mayor accused Melan of not trusting any fire chief, which is a position filled on the recommendation of the city administrator. Councilman Ken Brown noted that the city's civil service rules allow for three candidates to reach the oral exam following the deputy chief's written exam. "In that, it could be someone who's recommended from someone else, so you've just got to trust the system," Brown said. "You know what, Ken, with all due respect, I don't trust the system," Melan responded. In the effort to bolster this years firefighter recruitment class, Weber, from human resources, said the city posted the opportunity on indeed.com, created a guide on the citys website outlining the civil service process and hung a banner across South Third Street announcing applications were being taken. This year's recruitment class included seven female applicants, with one passing the agility test to proceed to the written test; 14 percent identified as minorities. Going forward, Krill said he wants to work harder at drawing applicants from the city. Being a firefighter is a blue collar job, the chief said, and the city provides the training. This is really an entry-level program and its an opportunity to establish in our community a hiring practice that would allow our lower economic groups within the city to attain a higher level job, Krill said. Kurt Bresswein may be reached at kbresswein@lehighvalleylive.com. Follow him on Twitter @KurtBresswein and Facebook. Find lehighvalleylive.com on Facebook. An 18-year-old, who is awaiting trial on a weapons charge out of Wilson Borough, was arraigned Thursday on new charges after admitting in March to an armed robbery attempt last summer on Eastons South Side, city police report. The victim of the robbery try was giving a woman, who court records call KT, a ride about 3:45 p.m. Aug. 7 and expected her to pay him back $20 she owned when she directed him to pull over in the 100 block of Holt Street, police said. She told him a friend would give him the cash, court papers say. CaMel Jeremiah Douglas, whose current address is Northampton County Prison, quickly walked up to the drivers side of the vehicle and lifted his shirt to show the driver a gray semi-automatic handgun, police said. A second man, later identified as Saheem Wright, opened the passenger side door and tried to grab the ignition key, police said. Wright punched the man in the side of the face and said What you got, police said. Wright then slid out of (the) vehicle and left the scene and the victim drove off, police said. The victim told police the robbers were wearing a red shirt and a white shirt, police said. A police officer saw two men fitting the description nearby in the 100 block of West Nesquehoning Street and was able to take Wright into custody, police said. On March 26, Wright pleaded guilty to robbery and was sentenced to 12 to 24 months in jail. He remains in SCI Phoenix, records show. KT identified the other robber as Mel, police said. Witnesses at the time of the robbery try reported seeing a man fitting the description of Mel in a red shirt holding a handgun and running across nearby St. John Street, police said. A day later, a person came forward to say a silver and black Kel-Tec 9 handgun had been stolen from their home, police said. Wright, KT and Mel were in the home at the time of the theft, police said. Mel was described as a black man, 5 feet 9 inches tall who communicates on Facebook as Mel Two Gunz, police said. He reportedly lived with his mother in the 100 block of West Nesquehoning, but she later told investigators that he had moved out, police said. Surveillance images show Douglas wearing dark shoes with red trim and they matched the shoes on a man in a photo posted July 28 by Wright on Facebook, police said. Facebook and surveillance photos were compared to an Easton Area School District photo of Douglas and they all appeared to be the same individual, police said. Douglas was arrested in February in an unrelated case and was interviewed March 12 at the prison, police said. After giving up his rights against self incrimination, Douglas admitted he conspired with Wright, KT and another person to rob the man on Aug. 7, police said. Douglas also admitted he displayed the handgun during the robbery try, police said. Douglas was arraigned at 10 a.m. Thursday before District Judge Daniel Corpora on charges of attempted robbery, conspiracy to commit robbery, firearms not to be possessed without a license and possession of a weapon, records show. Bail was set at $50,000. His preliminary hearing is tentatively scheduled 9 a.m. May 23 in Corporas court on the citys South Side. Douglas and Nathaniel Charles Donnelly, 19, who were both homeless, were arrested Feb. 7 outside Wilson Area High School, police said. Donnelly was carrying a .40-caliber handgun, which was stolen in the borough, and Douglas had a knife and marijuana, borough police said. In the custody of the department of corrections, they said they had wanted to use the handgun on someone, police said. When asked if there were someone in specific they wanted to shoot, they said they hate cops and have opposition out there, police reported from the DOC conversation. Douglas faces trial July 8 on charges of possessing a weapon on school property, possessing a controlled substance, possessing drug paraphernalia and providing false identification to law enforcement, records show. His bail in that case was initially set at $750,000, but has since been lowered to $50,000. He remains in jail. At this point, the attorney representing Douglas in the first case is not representing him in the second, Michael James Light IIs office said, although that could change. Light was in court and couldnt be reached Thursday afternoon. Tony Rhodin may be reached at arhodin@lehighvalleylive.com. Follow him on Twitter @TonyRhodin. Find lehighvalleylive.com on Facebook. The Bucks County man accused of making bombs amid a rash of explosions that plagued his community last year will remain free on bail, as long as authorities can track his movements via GPS. David W. Surman Jr., 31, of Milford Township, was ordered Wednesday to be held in the county prison as a bail hearing that opened Tuesday wrapped up Thursday. The Bucks County District Attorneys Office filed a motion May 3 to have Surmans bail revoked. At the conclusion of the hearing, Surman was released after Judge Raymond McHugh ordered him to wear an electronic monitoring ankle bracelet, the district attorneys office said. Surman is free on a combined bail of $1.25 million after posting 10 percent, as agreed to in district court. That's for two cases, one involving four counts of possession or manufacture of weapons of mass destruction and other charges, and another on a charge of child pornography. He was arrested last June 28 for allegedly creating the explosives and detonating them outside a vehicle being driven by his girlfriend, Tina Smith, also 31 and from Milford Township. Investigators searching Surmans home in the 2400 block of Old Bethlehem Pike last year said they found a hard drive containing pornographic images and videos featuring children. In alleged violation of his bail conditions, Surman was accused of setting up PayPal accounts under aliases to purchase chemical ingredients of explosives; walkie-talkies that would allow him to communicate with Smith; as well as gun components and a 3D printer that could be used to build a functioning handgun, according to philly.com. Surmans mother, Kathy Surman, testified this week the chemicals were not purchased but rather were sold online by her sons chemical company, Consolidated Chemical & Solvents LLC at 2240 Spinnerstown Road, also in Milford Township, according to a report by buckscountycouriertimes.com. And the walkie-talkies and gun parts were actually purchased by her daughter, Kathy Surman reportedly testified. David Surman was also accused of purchasing SIM cards for smartphones, in violation of a bail condition barring him from electronics able to access the Internet, The Morning Call reports; he promised the judge this week hed stay off-line. Surman is scheduled to face trial Aug. 19 in Bucks County Court in both cases against him. Kurt Bresswein may be reached at kbresswein@lehighvalleylive.com. Follow him on Twitter @KurtBresswein and Facebook. Find lehighvalleylive.com on Facebook. A Northampton County judge has dismissed murder charges against an Easton man after a key eyewitness disappeared. They can be refiled if she shows up later, however. Northampton County Assistant District Attorney William Blake asked Judge Stephen Baratta to dismiss the charges against Jeffrey Raymond. The 24-year-old is accused of fatally shooting Michael A. Bond in 2016 in Easton. Blake said the case cant proceed without the testimony of Tatiana Lockhart, who told police she saw the murder on May 9, 2016, in the 600 block of Church Street. Withdrawing the charge will allow Raymond to be extradited to New York, where he faces two homicide charges, Blake said. If Lockhart resurfaces, the Easton murder charge can be refiled, Blake said. Baratta dismissed the local murder charge on April 26, Blake said. Raymond was scheduled to be moved to New York on Thursday. The charges against Raymond came after an investigation by a county grand jury. He has been jailed in Easton since October 2017. Authorities never detailed a motive for Bonds killing. The Kings County, N.Y., indictment was handed down in February. It involves a double shooting on Sept. 3, 2016, after Raymond fled Pennsylvania, Blake said. Rudy Miller may be reached at rmiller@lehighvalleylive.com. Follow him on Twitter @RudyMillerLV. Find Easton area news on Facebook. An 83-year-old drivers age and other physical infirmities caused him not notice an oncoming Palmer Township police car with lights and sirens activated, and the resulting crash took the mans life, authorities report. Northampton County District Attorney John Morganelli on Thursday morning said a Pennsylvania State Police investigation found no evidence of criminality in the wreck early in the afternoon of Oct. 22 at Route 248 and Park Avenue. Morganellis decision absolves Patrolman Richard B. Marshall of any culpability in the crash. Marshall was responding with two other police vehicles to an emergency call and was traveling east on Route 248 -- Nazareth Road -- as he crossed the intersection, Morganelli said. Julio Flores, of the 200 block of South Fourth Street in Easton, entered the intersection at the same time heading north on Park Avenue, Morganelli said. The crash pushed the Toyota Camry 60 feet before both vehicles stopped on the raised center concrete median, Morganelli said. Flores was initially trapped in the car and, once extricated, was taken to Easton Hospital where he died, Morganelli said. Marshall was treated for minor injuries. Drugs and alcohol were not factors in the crash, the district attorney said. Morganelli did not say which driver had the green light. Flors was alone in not responding to the oncoming emergency vehicles, Morganelli said. Other vehicles in and about the intersection yielded to the police vehicle crossing the intersection at the time, Morganelli said. State police reconstructed the crash, looked at surveillance video of the intersection during the wreck, reviewed information from the officers cellphone and interviewed witnesses, Morganelli said. The district attorney read the police reports and watched the video before making his decision, he said. Family members of the deceased reported the deceased had diminished ability to hear the emergency vehicles due to his age and other physical infirmities, Morganelli wrote. We find that that was a substantial factor in bringing about this event. ... I find that this was an unfortunate accident and that at all times the responding police officer acted properly pursuant to his training and the laws of the Commonwealth. Tony Rhodin may be reached at arhodin@lehighvalleylive.com. Follow him on Twitter @TonyRhodin. Find lehighvalleylive.com on Facebook. A 26-year-old woman is being held in lieu of $1 million bail on charges that she intimidated a witness in a capital murder case that led to the witness disappearing rather than testifying, Palmer Township police report. Andrea Weaver was arraigned Wednesday before District Judge Jacqueline Taschner on charges of witness intimidation and terroristic threats, Detective Jim Alercia said in a news release. Dekota Baptiste, 26, is on trial for his life on charges he shot and killed Terrance R. Lex Ferguson, 36, on Feb. 23, 2017, as Ferguson sat in a car with Thressa Duarte in an auto parts store parking lot off 25th Street in Palmer. Duarte twice broke down on Monday when she was supposed to testify against Baptiste, with whom she had a relationship. She failed to show up for court on Tuesday or Wednesday, leading to the trial to be recessed on Wednesday. Messages to Duarte from Weaverss phone were severe enough to make anybody, including a witness prepared to testify in court, in fear for their lives, Alercia said. Northampton County Judge Samuel Murray on Wednesday reportedly warned about witness intimidation just before court ended on Wednesday. Palmer police have been investigating Duartes disappearance after Murray issued a bench warrant on Tuesday. They got an arrest warrant and took Weaver into custody in her mothers home where Weaver was living at 309 Palmer St. in Easton, Alercia said. A woman saying she is Weavers mother wrote by email that Weaver was visiting at the time of the arrest but doesnt live in the home. Court paperwork lists her address in the 200 block of Palmer Street, but her mother said they last lived there together more than two years ago. Assistant District Attorney Abraham Kassis said he couldnt comment on whether Duarte would be in court on Thursday. There is no evidence Baptiste played a role in the intimidation, but the investigation is continuing, Alercia said. "It appears there are grudges toward Duarte from individuals on the street, Alercia said. Some grudges stem from the case, and some personal. Both sides we are investigating. Weaver told police she knew Baptiste from high school, but there doesnt appear to be much of a connection between the two, Alercia said. Police are prepared to probe any such case involving a witness, Alercia said. We will continue to investigate any threats that are made to any witness in this or any case and charge accordingly, Alercia said. Reporter Rudy Miller contributed to this post. Tony Rhodin may be reached at arhodin@lehighvalleylive.com. Follow him on Twitter@TonyRhodin. Find lehighvalleylive.com on Facebook. Reid said he filed the suit because for the last two years, the police and law departments have not provided his office with copies of body camera or dash camera videos that he believes his staff should receive as part of fulfilling FOIA requests. He also believes, as FOIA officer, he should serve as a sort of checks-and-balances to make sure city redactions are in fact necessary, and residents are getting the information they are lawfully entitled to. The children of Bobby Ryan, Michelle and Robert, lead a Late Late Show line up including Kodaline, Stefanie Preissner and a panel on the upcoming Leaving Certificate exams this Friday, May 10. It was the longest running murder trial in Irish criminal history which gripped the nation for 13 weeks, and on Friday night Bobby Ryans children Michelle and Robert will join host Ryan Tubridy to speak about their father and the sentencing of Patrick Quirke. Chart-topping band Kodaline will be in studio for a chat ahead of their Dublin shows later this month, and theyll also perform their hit single Brother. In her new book Can I Say No?, Stefanie Preissner explores why simply saying no is such a difficult thing to do. Stefanie joins Ryan to discuss how we've lost the ability to say no and how, by reacquainting ourselves with this two letter word, we can go on to live happier, less stressful and more fulfilling lives. With just under a month to go until the Leaving Certificate begins, Ryan will catch up with 6 students from around the country who are currently preparing for the exams, and will find out about the stresses, pressures, and ups and downs facing Irish teenagers. The show will also have the first Late Late Show birth as we meet the robot being used to teach medical students about the process of having a baby, and music will be from SYML. Only on The Late Late Show, RTE One, Friday, May 10 at 9.35pm Trade unions Forsa and SIPTU trade unions are finalising arrangements for industrial action including protests in Portlaoise and elsewhere by Community Employment (CE) scheme supervisors due to commence next week. The action, which starts on Monday, May 13, is set to coincide with a series of daily protests by CE supervisors at seven locations around the country. These include Intreo and Revenue offices in Galway and Waterford, and political constituency offices in Dublin, Donegal, Galway, Cork, Portlaoise and Limerick. A protest will take place daily between 12 noon and 3pm at Minister for Justice Charlie Flanagan's Laois constituency office in Portlaoise on each day of the strike action which runs to Friday, May 17. Brendan OHanlon is an official with Forsa. "Well be taking the opportunity to canvas the public to support our campaign of action in the run-up to the local and European elections on May 24, he said. The unions say the 1,250 staff concerned have no access to any occupational pension scheme, despite a 2008 Labour Court recommendation in their favour. A one-day strike by CE supervisors and assistant supervisors took place in February. Unions have said the action can be averted if the Minister for Finance, Paschal Donohoe, agrees to meet to discuss the implementation of the 2008 Labour Court recommendation. It is claimed that the Court said an agreed pension scheme should be introduced and adequately funded by the recognised funding agency. Unions have said this responsibility falls upon the Government. A strikingly modern piece of designer outdoor furniture has appeared in the plaza of the Holy Family Schools in Portlaoise. Award winning Laois furniture artist Alan Meredith created the seat for the campus which has some 1500 children in the Junior and Senior schools. The schools thanked the designer on their Facebook pages. Thanks to artist Alan Meredith for creating this wonderful piece of art symbolising the roads in Portlaoise leading to the school as a centre of the community. They are oak seating benches joined by planting boxes, the Junior school said. "It symbolises the fact that all are welcome whatever road you are on," the Senior school said. The project was funded by the Governments Percent for Art Scheme. The Mountmellick based furniture designer has won multiple awards. He was the DCCOI - Future Maker of the year 2017. Recent awards include The Royal Dublin Society Craft Awards 2018, Laois winner of Ireland's Best Young Entrepreneur 2016 and an architectural design award from the Institute of Designers in Ireland for a large scale public space at Newpark Comprehensive School. He also the Tresor-Discovery Award at Tresor Contemporary Craft 2017 in Basel, Switzerland. The Timahoe Heritage Festival takes place this June, providing a chance to share the story of this colourful Laois village. Timahoe is steeped in centuries of history, from monks, monasteries and Vikings, to the famine and the War of Independence. The Viking Festival will take place on the first day, Saturday, June 1, featuring a ten mile road race from Vicarstown to Timahoe which follows the route the Vikings most likely took from the Viking fort in Dunrally to Timahoe. Also on June 1 is an archeology event featuring Viking weaponry, and an ancient storytelling session in the Heritage Centre. The second day, June 2, will be a combination of the good old styled Irish fun family day out, coupled with the continuation of events from the previous day. So why not come along in fancy dress on the Sunday and you may just win a prize. The theme for the fancy dress competition is Viking, Monks & Medieval. There will also be a pageant to reenact the event of a Viking raid on the monastery. So head to Timahoe on June 1/2 next. A major national awareness campaign on sexual harassment and sexual violence. No Excuses has been launched featuring hard hitting TV, cinema, radio, outdoor, social and digital advertising. The campaign will run for three years up to 2021 with initial TV ads broadcasting from tomorrow, Friday 10 May, 10, 2019. The initial ads feature both male and female perpetrators and victims. They cover a number of scenarios ranging from sexual harassment in the workplace, unwanted physical attention at a bar, and an attempt to expose someone in a locker room, to an attempt to coerce a partner into unwanted sexual activity and finally an attempt to prey on someone not in a position to give consent. WATCH: Minister Charlie Flanagan TD who launched the campaign today said: Research has shown that Ireland suffers from disturbingly high levels of sexual harassment and sexual violence. These ads highlight and help people recognise these behaviours and the many precursors to them. They call on us to reflect on our own reactions and to stop excusing sexual harassment and sexual violence. I hope that they will help all of us to hold such behaviours and their precursors totally unacceptable with the ultimate goal of reducing and preventing the incidences of sexual harassment and sexual violence, which affect the lives of too many people in our society both directly and indirectly. On 8 March 2019, International Womens Day, WIN International published statistics as part of the 2018 WIN World Survey ranking 40 countries on gender equality, sexual harassment and violence. The Irish research was carried out by Red C research. The survey reported that Ireland has the highest level of claimed sexual harassment in Europe with 32% of Irish women between the ages of 18 and 34 saying they had experienced some form of sexual harassment in the last 12 months. That was the highest level in Europe, and the second highest out of all 40 countries surveyed. Only Mexico fared worse. Reported sexual offences are also increasing. Last year, 3,182 sex crimes were recorded by Gardai, a 26% increase on 2017. While some of this may be attributable to an increased willingness to report crimes, which should be welcomed, the reported figure still only shows a fraction of the total prevalence of these crimes as it is generally accepted that sex crimes are chronically under-reported. The Minister added: The aim of this campaign is to make the public question our responses to a range of sexual harassment and potential sexual violence scenarios which are endemic in society, to consider the extent to which we excuse or explain away incidents when we see them, and to ask us to stop excusing them if we do. We want the campaign to provoke us all to ask: Just what is our attitude to sexual harassment and sexual violence? Are we tolerating it? Are we excusing it? And if we are, even if we are doing so only at the lower stages, are we facilitating a culture in which it is really hard for victims to be heard, to be helped, to be supported. The campaign is being run by Cosc the National Office for the Prevention of Domestic, Sexual and Gender-based Violence, which is part of the Department of Justice and Equality. The campaign is part of the Second National Strategy on Domestic, Sexual and Gender-based Violence 2016-2021. No Excuses follows the domestic violence awareness campaign whatwouldyoudo? which ran for three years from 2016 to 2018. Funding of 950,000 has been secured to run the campaign in 2019. In addition, funding of 171,000 has been awarded under the Dormant Accounts Fund to localise the campaign message. It is intended, subject to the necessary funding being made available, that the campaign will continue and evolve for 3 years up to 2021. The ads also direct viewers to the campaign website gov.ie/noexcuses. The website provides further information as well as advice on how to help in such situations. SEE ALSO: Gardai seize uninsured car in Celbridge Rita Fennelly (nee Kelly) - Brownstown, Churchtown, Athy Deeply regretted by her loving husband Pat, sons Joe and Patrick, daughters Sandra and Gillian, brother Dom, sons-in-law, daughters-in-law, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. Reposing at her residence (Eir Code R14 PD37) from 5pm on Thursday evening with Rosary at 8pm. Removal by Rigney's Funeral Directors at 10.30am Friday morning to arrive at St. Michael's Parish Church, Athy for Requiem Mass at 11am. Burial afterwards in Churchtown new cemetery. John Maher - Greenfield Drive, Maynooth Maher, John, Greenfield Drive, Maynooth, May 7, peacefully at Connolly Hospital, Blanchardstown, beloved husband of the late Noreen. Deeply regretted by his loving sons Anthony and Michael, daughter Eilis, brothers Thomas and Tim, brother-in-law, sisters-in-law, nephews, nieces, relatives and friends. Reposing at Reillys Funeral Home, Leinster Street, Maynooth on Sunday from 4pm to 8pm, with prayers at 7pm. Removal on Monday morning at 10.30am to arrive at St. Mary's Church, Maynooth for 11am Funeral Mass and burial afterwards in Laraghbryan Cemetery. Family flowers only please. Donations, if desired, to Irish Heart Foundation. For all enquiries please phone Oliver Reilly Funeral Directors on 045-868230. Teresa (Cora) Malone (nee Harrigan) - Williamstown, Carbury Peacefully at Naas Hospital. Wife of the late Johnny and mother of the late Jonathan. Deeply regretted by her brother John, sister Ann (Humphries - England), Eileen (Daly - Kildare), sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. Reposing at Larkin's Funeral Home, Edenderry this Wednesday and Thursday evening from 6pm to 8pm with Rosary each evening at 8pm. Removal on Friday at 1pm arriving to Holy Trinity Church, Derrinturn for 1.30pm Funeral Mass followed by burial in adjoining cemetery. For more recent deaths in Kildare, click here. The May Bank Holiday weekend saw the culmination of the celebrations in Saint Conleths Parish Newbridge marking the 1500th anniversary of the death of Saint Conleth, the first Bishop of Kildare and Patron Saint of both Newbridge Parish and the Diocese of Kildare and Leighlin. Saint Conleth died on 4 May 519 and 1500 years later, the people of the parish of Newbridge came together on his feast day of May 4 to mark the anniversary of his death and to celebrate the vibrant parish life that exists in Newbridge some 1500 years after this death. The weekend of celebrations began with Mass on Saturday 4 May in Saint Conleths Parish Church, Newbridge. Bishop Denis Nulty, Bishop of Kildare and Leighlin was the principal celebrant. The Mass, which was concelebrated by priests and religious from the parish and from the diocese, was attended by more than 700 people with many of the ministries and services of the parish represented in the opening procession and throughout the Mass. Local school students and staff were also involved as well as the young people preparing for First Holy Communion in the parish. One of the highlights of the Mass was the reading of a special papal message from Pope Francis which was received for the St Conleth 1500 celebrations. The message from Pope Francis, which was signed by Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Secretary of State, said: "His Holiness Pope Francis was pleased to learn of the celebration marking the fifteen-hundredth anniversary of the death of Saint Conleth, patron and first Bishop of Kildare, and he sends prayerful greetings to the you and to the priests, consecrated men and women and lay faithful of the diocese. Joining you in giving thanks to almighty god for the example of this saintly bishop and abbot, his Holiness encourages all of you to remain rooted in fidelity to the Lord. "In this way, as you seek to proclaim the gospel by following Christ in missionary discipleship, each parish will be strengthened as a place where all can encounter a community of communities, a sanctuary where the thirsty come to drink in the midst of their journey, and a centre of constant missionary outreach (Evangelii Gaudium, 28). Entrusting the people of Kildare and Leighlin to the intercession of Saints Conleth, Brigid and Laserian, the Holy Father cordially imparts his Apostolic Blessing as a pledge of strength and peace in the Lord. Cardinal Pietro Parolin Secretary of State In his homily for the Mass Bishop Nulty said: The important message is the life Conleth led and the legacy he left behind, a legacy we live out of and celebrate this night. In his very first Chrism Mass homily Pope Francis used an image that he has returned to again and again and again. I give the exact quote: 'the priest who seldom goes out of himself misses out on the best of our people, on what can stir the depths of his priestly heart this is precisely the reason why some priests grow dissatisfied, lose heart and become in a sense collectors of antiquities or novelties, instead of being shepherds living with the smell of the sheep. This is what I am asking you be shepherds with the smell of sheep. Bishop Nulty went on to say, Conleth has given a root to your faith, your Christian identity in these parts. Pope Francis in Christus Vivit reminds us roots are not anchors chaining to past times and preventing us from facing the present and creating something new. Instead, they are a fixed point from which we can grow and meet new challenges we are sent today to proclaim the Good News of Jesus in a new age. We need to love this time with all its opportunities and risks, its joys and sorrows, its riches and its limits, its successes and failures. At the end of the Mass Bishop Nulty was presented with an image of a piece of the stained glass from St Conleths parish church which depicts Saint Conleth. On Sunday 5 May a pilgrim walk took place from the parish church out to Old Connell where it is said Conleth lived in seclusion. In years gone by on the Sunday after St Conleth's Day a pilgrimage would place from the parish church in Newbridge to Old Connell, about two miles outside the town. This pilgrimage was revived this year for the St Conleth 1500 celebrations and more than 80 people took part in the pilgrim walk to what is now an historic graveyard where a short prayer service and blessing of the graves took place. Local historian Paul Cooke gave an overview of the stories of some of those who are buried in the graveyard which is now sited in a modern stud farm. The weekend of celebrations concludes on Monday night when the parish Novena will see the Papal Nuncio to Ireland, Archbishop Jude Thaddeus Okolo as principal celebrant and homilist for the second night of the annual novena. Two out of three people with asthma currently do not have an Asthma Action plan, according to a survey undertaken by the Asthma Society, launched today by Minister for Health Simon Harris as part of Asthma Awareness Week. The research was conducted after recent figures for asthma deaths show they are on the rise. One person now dies every five days from asthma. The Asthma Society of Ireland is encouraging the 1,837 people in Leitrim with uncontrolled asthma to reduce their risk of a fatal asthma attack by getting an Asthma Action Plan. The survey was conducted April/May 2019, with 1,081 respondents. Asthma Society CEO, Sarah OConnor, said: It is truly frightening that asthma deaths are on the rise in Ireland a person now dies every five days in Ireland from asthma. Our Asthma Management survey, launched today, highlighted a huge lack of awareness of how to manage asthma. The survey results showed that, in the event of an asthma attack, most people wouldnt know the necessary steps to take to save a life (the 5 Step Rule). Every person who has asthma in Galway should be in possession of an Asthma Action Plan UK research into asthma deaths indicated that having an up-to-date Asthma Action Plan made it significantly less likely that a person would experience a fatal asthma attack. "This Asthma Awareness Week we are calling on people all over the country to put an Asthma Action Plan in place. Minister for Health, Simon Harris, said: I am strongly supporting the Asthma Societys campaign today, encouraging people to take control of their asthma. Asthma management is extremely important. It allows people with the condition to live a longer, healthier and happier life. "I encourage everyone to put an Asthma Action Plan in place it is the one of the best asthma management tools available. People with asthma can work with their GP or asthma nurse or phone the Asthma and COPD Adviceline for help to create their personalised plan on 1800 44 54 64. The Asthma Management survey found that: Two out of three people with asthma do not have an Asthma Action Plan Two out of three people with asthma have not spoken to their healthcare professional in the last six months Only 63% of people surveyed knew there was a 5 Step Rule for managing an asthma attack 69% people with asthma would not know the 5 Step Rule to manage an asthma attack Half of people with asthma use their reliever inhaler more than the recommended twice a week Three out of five people with asthma do not use their controller inhaler all year round Nine out of ten people with asthma do not carry an Asthma Attack Card with them at all times One in five people with asthma would not know the six most common symptoms of an asthma attack As part of this campaign, the Asthma Society has produced two videos both provide tips about asthma management. One very emotive video features Ciara Kelly who lost her mother to an asthma attack in 2018 and the other video features Michael McDonagh who shares his story of how he got in control of his asthma, getting his life back on track. The Asthma Society will kick off its first ever Asthma Roadshow during Asthma Awareness Week. This roadshow will travel around the country to help people get in control of their asthma. The roadshows next stop is Mahon Point Shopping Centre in Cork on 8 May (12 noon to 4pm), Eyre Square Shopping Centre on 9 May (2-6pm) and Letterkenny Retail Park on 10 May (12 noon to 4pm). People with asthma are encouraged to attend these events where they can meet with a respiratory specialist nurse one to one about getting in control of their asthma. These events are designed to be family friendly and feature activities/games to get children to learn about and accept their own asthma or that of a friend or family member. The inaugural Asthma Awareness Week runs from 4-10 May and is kindly supported by Boots Ireland and GSK. Read Also: Watch | Free parenting talk taking place in Carrick on Shannon with Dr Eddie Murphy Bestselling author Donal Ryan visited Carrigallen Vocational School senior cycle students of English to discuss their work and speak about his own writing experiences last Thursday. The visit arose after Donal received a selection of writings based on his novel The Spinning Heart from some of the Leaving Cert students. The students had read this novel in class as part of their Leaving Cert English course and as a follow up creative task, each one was assigned a minor character from the text who is briefly mentioned, and they had to write a chapter for this character, telling the story from their point of view. The students then sent on some of these writings to Donal who is currently Professor of Creative Writing at the University of Limerick. He was so impressed that he immediately contacted English teacher, Sarah Donnellan, and said he would really like to visit the school to meet these young writers. The visit took the form of an informal interview on the stage of the Corn Mill Theatre between Ryan and Leaving Cert student David Rawle. Ryan told the assembled students how impressed he had been by their writing styles and their character development. He said he is often criticised for his inconclusive ending to the novel, so he was especially impressed at how the students imagined possible endings. Ryan spoke at length in an informal and humorous way about his own school experiences, how people and situations influenced his writing and how he came to write his debut novel The Spinning Heart. He provided the students with some sound advice on ambition, doing what makes you happy and the value of reading. He said that he would treasure the pieces of writing sent to him and had discussed them with other authors. He has visited many schools, he said, but was especially excited to visit the impressive young writers of Carrigallen Vocational School. School Principal, Mr. Declan Conboy, spoke at the end of the interview saying that while he had attended many excellent school occasions in the theatre, this had been one of the most enjoyable 45 minutes that he had spent there. He commented on the easy banter between Donal Ryan and student David Rawle and how they seemed like two old friends having a light hearted chat which made the interview very engaging and enjoyable for the audience. Visits such as these, when students get the opportunity to come face to face with the authors of texts that they are studying, are invaluable learning experiences. They demystify writers and the writing process and make it seem more accessible for students, not only from the point of view of exams but for those who may be considering a career in writing. For generations to come this will be a great benefit to students. There will be more open space and will create a culture and environment that students will want to come to, said Lowther, who wants to return to West Leyden to teach English. The Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) has published consumer protection guidelines for contracts of care in long-term residential care services for older people. The guidelines set out the obligations and responsibilities that providers must adhere to under consumer protection law and are aimed at providing greater transparency, clarity and certainty for consumers. Speaking today, Isolde Goggin, Chairperson of the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission said, The decision to move into residential care is usually taken in stressful circumstances. For many people, there are limited options to choose from and moving to another nursing home, if you are not happy, is not feasible. "This means residents are particularly vulnerable. If there is a lack of transparency in contracts of care, residents and their families are at risk of being tied into terms and conditions that they dont understand or that they would never knowingly agree to. In developing the guidelines, the CCPC ensured that it engaged fully with the market from both the consumers and suppliers perspectives. Engagement and research included a public consultation, meetings with stakeholders, close engagement with other regulators and a review of contracts of care which are currently in use. In this review, the CCPC found that the language used in contracts was often technical and may not be easily understood. In some cases, important information was not provided to the resident, which could prevent them from making an informed decision. The CCPC also found examples of potentially unfair terms, such as terms which allowed for significant changes to the contract with no prior consultation with the resident or their representative. Ms Goggin commented; It is vital that nursing homes are fair and transparent in how they draw up residents contracts. We have developed these guidelines to help service providers understand and comply with their obligations and in doing so set a standard for contracts of care into the future. "Over the coming days, nursing homes across Ireland will be receiving a copy of the guidelines. It is now up to each nursing home provider to review their standard form contracts of care to ensure that they are in compliance with consumer protection law. After a period of time to allow for any changes to be made, the CCPC plans to again assess compliance in the sector. The CCPC has also published an accompanying information booklet for consumers to help them understand what they are entitled to expect in contracts of care. Residents of nursing homes have consumer rights regardless of whether they pay all or some of the costs of their care. If a resident has entered into a contract that is not in plain understandable language or if they believe that there are terms and conditions in their contract of care which places them at a significant disadvantage or may be unfair, they should write to the nursing home provider setting out their concerns. The CCPCs website provides an information booklet and a template letter to help consumers raise their concerns with their nursing home provider. Speaking about the implications for consumers, Isolde Goggin said; The nursing homes sector is currently the focus of considerable attention particularly around fees and charges and a review of the Fair Deal scheme. Our guidelines will not resolve all of the issues in this sector, however, our goal in undertaking this work was to ensure that residents and their families have more certainty and clarity in what they, and the nursing home, are committing to when they sign a contract of care. If there are any changes, for example, to fees, after the contract is signed, these changes must be reasonable, taking the residents interests into account and be clearly communicated. The law protects consumers from standard form contracts which are imbalanced in favour of a business to the disadvantage of a consumer. While it is up to the courts to decide if a term is unfair, our guidelines highlight examples of potentially unfair terms in contracts of care currently in operation in the sector. "Our consumer booklet provides assistance to residents who may wish to challenge similar terms if they exist in their contracts of care. I encourage anyone who is concerned or who would like to find out more about their rights to visit our website ccpc.ie. The achievement of 30 young people from across the Southwest of Ireland was celebrated at Gaisces Silver Award ceremony in Thomond Park in Limerick. I was thrilled to MC this special event. It was an inspirational night from start to finish with motivational words from guest speaker, Munster Rugbys Marcus Horan and Gaisce Gold participant Rebecca Duffy, a Leitrim native who gave a speech encouraging Silver Awardees to continue their Gaisce Journey and undertake the Gold Award. Silver awardees that were honoured on the night have successfully completed at least 26 weeks across three different challenge areas and undertaken a three day adventure journey. The adventure journey incorporates either a 50km walk or a 190km cycle. Speaking at the event, Marcus Horan of Munster Rugby said: Im delighted to be here to be part of the Gaisce Silver Awards. Personal development is such an important part of life at any age, and its wonderful to see so many young people receiving their Silver Award today having demonstrated their commitment to realising their potential. It is fantastic to see an organisation like Gaisce encouraging young people to develop their personal skills and in doing so celebrating their achievements. Yvonne McKenna, CEO Gaisce added: I heartily congratulate the awardees on their achievement. Completing a Silver Gaisce Award is no easy feat and each and every one of them has dedicated significant time and effort towards developing skills, helping in their communities, becoming more active and exploring their sense of adventure. We are delighted to celebrate their achievements and the dedication of their wonderful Presidents Award Leaders who are the lifeblood of the Gaisce programme. The awardees arent only incredible ambassadors for Gaisce, but also their families and communities. Gaisce The Presidents Award is a self-development programme for young people between the ages of 15-25, which is proven to enhance confidence and wellbeing through participation in personal, physical, community and team challenges. It is a direct challenge from the President of Ireland, Michael D. Higgins, to all young people to dream big and realise their potential. Comhgairdeachas to all involved! COLAISTE NANO NAGLE WIPES OUT THE COMPETITION! TY students in Colaiste Nano Nagle under the direction of their art teacher Sarah Nestor blew the judges away with their Junk Koture entry Wiped Out in last Thursdays National Finals in the 3 Arena, Dublin! The line up of judges included Xfactors Louis Walsh and social media sensation Doireann Garrihey. The design was awarded for Best Performance on the night! Performing to a Beyonce song TY student Nancy Ekhator, pictured above lit up the stage! The funky pink costume complete with head gear is made using recycled makeup wipes, bolts, screws, nuts, washers, belts, pieces of school folders and old jewellery! The school also had an entry call Rome-ing in de-Nile made entirely from recycled disposable towels! This is the second year in a row that Colaiste Nano Nagle have represented Limerick in The Junk Kouture National Finals, bagging themselves specialist awards both years! The design, Cinematicby Pobscoil Corcha Dhuibhne in Dingle was awarded overall winner on the night! ROGHA NA SEACHTAINE TO DO - BEALTAINE FESTIVAL Celebrate the beginning of Summer here in Limerick. There are a whole host of events taking place throughout the county this month! Youre sure to find something that takes your fancy! Bealtaine Festival runs from WEDNESDAY 1ST - FRIDAY 31ST MAY. TO LISTEN - TRACK OF THE WEEK Sean O Meara Blew my Cover: Limerick native Sean OMeara has released his debut solo single this week! Its easy pop beautifully produced both musically and lyrically, this is a track you will have on repeat! TO SEE - CURRAGHCHASE FOREST PARK Now that summer has landed and we can enjoy extra long evenings! I recommend heading west to see Curraghchase Forest Park only ten miles from Limerick city, this is the perfect place to head with your picnic on a sunny May weekend! Covering 313 hectares of mixed woodlands, park land and lakes this is nature at its finest on your doorstep! INVESTIGATING gardai in the Mr Moonlight murder conducted enquiries into the possible involvement of a foreign national in the death of DJ Bobby Ryan but the man had taken his own life before they could interview him, the Limerick Leader can exclusively reveal. In what was the longest murder trial in the history of the State, Tipperary farmer Patrick Quirke was last week sentenced to life in prison after being found guilty of the murder of part-time DJ Bobby Ryan. It was believed that a Polish national was involved in the murder with him and his conscience may have got the better of him and he took his own life, a garda source told the Leader this week. The gardai didnt get to interview the man. He had taken his own life at the time the possible link was made so it couldnt be substantiated any further, added the garda source. Mr Quirke, 50, of Breanshamore, Co Tipperary had pleaded not guilty to the murder of Bobby Mr Moonlight Ryan who went missing on June 3, 2011 after leaving his girlfriend Mary Lowry's home at about 6.30am. According to a local who lives close to the Tipperary border, one theory is that there were two Polish men involved in the murder. The talk is that one was asked by and paid by Quirke to get someone to murder Bobby Ryan which he allegedly did. That man, also from Poland, supposedly carried out the murder, went back to Poland and took his own life, said a local. The woman at the centre of the love rival case, Mary Lowry, worked for a meat company in Limerick for 14 years, doing accounts and reception, and then met her husband, Martin, in a nightclub in Limerick. Patrick Quirke is married to Martins sister Imelda who used to work as a sales rep in car finance for Woodchester, and is understood to have been based in Limerick city for a time. The trial heard Mr Quirke leased Ms Lowry's 60-acre farm and had an affair with Ms Lowry after her husbands death, an affair she described as sordid and sleazy. However, Mary Lowry was in a relationship with Mr Ryan when he disappeared in 2011. 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 daughter of Bobby Ryan said in the past week that she believes Patrick Quirke did not act alone. Michelle Ryan says she is now seeking her father's phone records in a quest to bring others to justice. She told The Irish Daily Star: I do believe there is more than one behind it. Michelle added that her father's phone is crucial. During the trial which went on for 13 weeks, the Central Criminal Court heard that Patrick Quirke told one of his farm hands he heard a rumour that Polish people were involved in the murder of DJ Bobby Ryan. Gary Cunningham told David Humphries BL for the prosecution that he was studying agricultural science in 2013 and did his work experience on Mr Quirke's farms, starting in February of that year. Following the discovery of Mr Ryan's body in a tank on land leased by the accused the witness had one quick conversation with Mr Quirke in which the accused asked him if he had heard any rumours about what happened. The witness couldn't recall what his response was but said that Mr Quirke then told him he had heard a rumour it was a Polish group. Most mornings during the 13 week trial, Patrick Quirke and his wife, Imelda, caught the train to Dublin at Limerick Junction. In the evenings, the couple were seen with their dogs, walking through Tipperary town, sometimes holding hands. In a documentary, The Mr Moonlight Murder, which aired on Virgin One on Monday night, search experts from County Limerick said they would have found Bobby Ryan after he went missing - if they had been allowed to search the Fawnagowan farm. Gardai were assisted by Patrick Quirke in the initial searches of the property when Mr Ryan went missing - but were not told about the run-off tank where Mr Moonlights remains were later found. Christopher Kelleher of Abbeyfeale Search and Rescue was one of the members of the search party called in when Mr Ryan went missing. If we were asked to search the farm I have no doubt in my mind we wouldnt be here today, that body would have been found that day, said Mr Kelleher. Catherine Costello, who now lives in Croom, is a co-founder of the Searching for the Missing group. She was asked by Mr Ryans daughter Michelle to help in the search and went to Bansha, Co Tipperary, where she met with her and Mary Lowry. She subsequently took a call from Ms Lowry asking to meet and said she was very different in that second encounter. "At the second meeting she was distraught, she was absolutely roaring crying, I did my level best to calm her," said Ms Costello. Mary Lowry told her about her former relationship with Patrick Quirke. She told me that she had been keeping a secret, that she was desperately worried about Bobby. "She told me of a relationship, a sexual relationship with her brother-in-law Quirke, she knew it was wrong. A YOUNG girl who was sexually abused by her uncle, a garda from the Limerick division, was afraid he would come to her home or school because she told on him, a court has heard. The garda who was convicted, earlier this year, of sexually assaulting his niece at his home was remanded in custody this Wednesday following a sentencing hearing. Following a trial, which lasted more than two weeks, the defendant was found guilty of the single charge which related to an incident which happened in November 2016. The offence happened outside of Limerick and the garda member was suspended a short time after a formal complaint was made. Richard Gomm, an investigator with the Garda Siochana Ombudsman Commission, told Roisin Lacey SC the defendant had been socialising with other family members at a pub in the town where he was living and that he left the pub before 2am and walked home. Ms Lacey said after the babysitter left, the defendant, who is aged in his forties, entered the bedroom where his goddaughter was sleeping and sexually assaulted her. The victim, who was aged 10 at the time, disclosed what happened to her mother later in the night. She later told specialist interviewers that while she was pretending to be asleep the defendant had rubbed her back before penetrating her front bum with his finger for several minutes. She experienced discomfort and a stinging sensation afterwards and attended a hospital with her parents the following morning. In a victim impact statement, her mother told Nenagh Circuit Court the incident had a devastating impact on her daughter and her family. She was a very happy and fun-loving child who loved music and singing, she said adding she became physically and emotionally distressed following the assault. Judge Thomas Teehan was told the young girl was afraid her uncle would come to her home or school because she told on him and she developed regressive and compulsive-type behaviour. The girl found it difficult to sleep for a number of months after the incident and again ahead of the trial. Her mood was low, she was withdrawn, she would not discuss her feelings, said her mother adding: She lost trust in us. When asked to write how she felt, the victim wrote several words on a piece of paper very sad, scared, lonely, angry, and dissappointed which was handed to the judge. Colman Cody SC told Judge Teehan his client does not accept the verdict of the jury and he requested an adjournment of the case to July to facilitate the preparation of a psychiatric report. He said his client was consenting to being remanded in custody and that while he would initially be brought to Limerick Prison he would quickly be transferred to the Midlands Prison. TWO months after the death of Mary Cregan sparked one of the biggest single fund-raising events witnessed in West Limerick, her grieving family are preparing to make public what will become known as Marys legacy. Mary, a nurse who was described at her funeral on March 18 as a woman of joy, is the daughter of former TD and chairman of Limerick GAA County Board, John Cregan and his wife, Patsy. Mary was diagnosed with a brain tumour in 2016 at the age of 30 and had a period of remission but the tumour returned last year and she died, at home, on March 14. But in the months before her death, Mary had spearheaded the Fight the Big C fundraiser as a way to give back. Tragically however, she did not live to host the event in the Devon Inn Hotel as she had hoped and planned. But with typical generosity her family requested that it go ahead. And it proved a huge success. This Friday, May 10, members of the public are invited to come along to the Longcourt House Hotel, Newcastle West where the extraordinary success of that fundraiser will be revealed. Originally, Mary told the Limerick Leader last January, her target was 600-700 for each of the organisations she nominated. But long before her death, and to her great joy, that target had been surpassed several times. The outpouring of solidarity and sympathy which followed her death ensured even that figure was further boosted. Next week, cheques will be presented to seven different organisations and groups, said Jim Barry who, along with Eileen Kelly, stood in for Mary when she became too ill to co-ordinate the fundraising herself. We were overwhelmed by peoples generosity and by the huge numbers of people who contributed, took part or helped in any way to make this fundraiser the enormous success it became, Jim said this week. Our hope is that Friday will be an opportunity to thank all these people and complete what Mary set out to do: to give back to those organisations which helped her in her illness. The four originally named organisations will benefit: the Brain Tumour Association of Ireland; Bru Columbanus which provides accommodation for the families of patients at University Hospital Cork; ACT, the Aid Cancer Treatment organisation which works to improve quality of life for cancer patients and BHOC, the Bandon Hyperbaric Oxygen Centre which give patients large doses of oxygen to promote healing. In addition, the Milford Care Centre, the Irish Cancer Society and the Jasmine Ward, St Itas Hospital, Newcastle West will also benefit. The presentations will begin at 8.30pm and all are welcome, Jim Barry said. Standing before the jury, Pascucci held in her hands an AR-15 and said Willie Jackson, who at the time was 18, admitted to police officers to shooting the victim with the weapon. The alleged confession came after Waukegan detectives drove eight hours to go arrest him in Tennessee, where he had fled, Pascucci said. Three men jailed for violent burglaries in rural county Limerick seven years ago, have launched appeals against their convictions. Patrick Roche, (54) and his son Philip Roche (25), both with addresses at Kilcronan, Clondalkin in Dublin, as well as Patrick Roches son-in-law Alan Freeman (38) from Pearse Park, Tipperary Town, were found guilty of aggravated burglary and false imprisonment following a trial at Limerick Circuit Criminal Court. The Circuit Court heard that Patrick and Philip Roche broke into the isolated home of elderly siblings Willie, Nora, and Chrissie Creed near Pallasgreen, Co Limerick, in May 2012. The Roches tied up Mr Creed and his sisters, aged in their 70s, before assaulting them, leaving them covered in blood. Willie Creed was stabbed in the head with a screwdriver before the Roches fled with 5,000 in cash. Six weeks earlier, the Roches along with Alan Freeman, broke into the home of the Gerry and Anne Garvey in Pallasgreen, Co Limerick. The gang tied up Mr and Mrs Garvey, and their four children, and assaulted them. They threatened Mr Garvey at gunpoint, before fleeing with a sum of cash. The three men were found guilty of the offences, having denied the charges. Patrick Roche was jailed for 17 years, Philip Roche 15 years and Freeman 14 years by Judge John Hannan on November 14, 2017. The final three years of each sentence was suspended. They opened appeals against their convictions today on a number of grounds including the trial judges instructions to the jury and issues surrounding the lawfulness of the Roches arrests and detention. The Director of Public Prosecutions will argue tomorrow that the convictions of all three men are safe. Counsel for Patrick Roche, Michael Delaney SC, said his client was not arrested for the offence for which he was detained. He said Patrick Roche was interviewed 20 times, over six or seven days. In the last two interviews the gardai invoked the power to draw inferences from his failure to answer material questions. However, Mr Delaney said it wasn't permissible to invoke the "inference provisions" where an explanation had repeatedly been given by Patrick Roche for his whereabouts. He said Patrick Roche told gardai that he had taken the train from Dublin to Cork and was collected by his cousin in a BMW before driving to Knocknaheeny in relation to a horse. Counsel for Philip Roche, Seamus Clarke SC, submitted that the arrest of both Roches was unlawful because the arresting gardai tagged along with a search team, for the purpose of arrest, without stating their intention. Counsel for Freeman, Dominic McGinn SC, said the only evidence connecting his client to the offence came from an alleged accomplice. He submitted that the trial judge misstated what could have amounted to corroboration of the alleged accomplice's evidence against Freeman. He further submitted that cross examination on behalf of his client's coaccused prejudiced Freeman. The hearing continues tomorrow before President of the Court of Appeal Mr Justice George Birmingham, Mr Justice Patrick McCarthy and Ms Justice Isobel Kennedy. Comedy legend, Freddie Starr has been found dead at his home in Spain at the age of 76. Starr, who fled to Spain in July 2015 after a libel case loss against a woman who accused him of groping her when she was 15, was found around 3pm on Thursday on the floor of his flat in Costa Del Sol, but his cause of death has not yet been announced. Police sources have said there is nothing to suggest anything suspicious about his death. An autopsy is expected to take place tomorrow in Malaga to rule out any criminal possibilities. A source at the equivalent of Spains 999 service said: We responded to a call this afternoon from the carer of a 76-year-old man in the Mijas area of the Costa del Sol. The woman said she had found the man and she was looking after him because he had been ill and said she thought he could be dead. Freddie has suffered from health problems in the past, and underwent a quadruple bypass following a heart attack, back in 2010. After recovering from the operation, he was forced to pull out of several public appearances in 2015, due to a serious lung condition. It was reported at the time he had been spending much of his time in a wheelchair. Celebrity couple, Kim Kardashian and Kanye West have promised to help a North Carolina man recently freed from prison to pay to remove his face tattoo. The couple met Paul Algarin and his family on Tuesday in Charlotte, following his release from Central Prison in North Carolina after serving seven years. Algarin was charged in 2013 with bringing guns to a Fayetteville high school, according to local reports. Paul's twin sister, Azaria revealed on Instagram the family had lunch with the stars before starting the procedure 'of removing [her] brother's face tattoos'. She said: 'Recently my twin was released from central prison where he served an accumulation of seven years. He asked me for Kims address so he could send her a letter and I rolled my eyes and never sent it. Eventually my mom sent it to him so he would stop harassing us. 'Never in a million years did I think Kim would write him back (or even read his letter), fly in right after the met gala (not to mention her 4th baby is due at any minute), invest in our family & laugh / relate to us over the smallest things. 'Kim flew in to CLT with her doctor to have lunch with us and start the procedure of removing my brothers face tattoos.' His mom Sonya added: 'Yesterday was a great day and also a long day coming. My children and I had the awesome opportunity to meet @kimkardashian and her husband @kanyedoingthings. 'Kim was there to grant a request that my son asked her assistance with which was to remove a tattoo from his face. Thank God she received his letter and was happy to grant his request. 'Her work and dedication to helping others restart their lives and move forward with a more positive start is something that I am extremely grateful for and most appreciative. 'Kim and Kanye taking time out of their busy schedules to come meet and sit with us was amazing and an experience we will always remember.' This comes after it was revealed Kim Kardashian has reportedly helped free as many as 17 inmates by secretly funding a criminal justice campaign. The mother of three first began her social justice bids by petitioning President Donald Trump over the release of Tennessee grandmother Alice Marie Johnson in June last year. The 63-year-old was pardoned by Trump after meeting Kim at the White House. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Benin Zonal Office, has secured the conviction of Eric Ogbemudia at the Federal High Court sitting in Benin City, Edo State. A statement from the agency says that Ogbemudia was arraigned on a one-count charge of obtaining the sum of Eighteen Thousand Five Hundred Pounds Sterling by false pretence. The charge reads: "That you, Eric Ogbemudia (alias David Mark) on or about the 17th August 2015, in Benin within the jurisdiction of this honourable court did with intent to defraud obtained the sum of 18,500.00 (Eighteen Thousand Five Hundred Pounds Sterling) from Mrs. Joan Gallyot, a British national under the pretense that she is one of the lucky winners of $852,000.00 (Eight hundred and Fifty-Two Thousand Dollars) Chevron/Texaco donation under its poverty reduction programme and that the money was for delivery charges of the cheque to her in the United Kingdom which you knew is false and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 1(1) b of the Advance Fee Fraud and other Fraud Related offences Act 2006 and punishable under Section 1(3) of the same Act." Upon his arraignment, the defendant pleaded "guilty" to the charge. In view of his plea, the prosecuting counsel, Immaculate Elody, prayed the court to convict and sentence the defendant, accordingly. However, the defence counsel, I.E. Oriazuwale, pleaded with the court to temper justice with mercy. He said the defendant had shown remorse and had promised never to return to the crime. Justice M.J. Umar, thereafter, convicted and sentenced Ogbemudia to six months imprisonment without an option of fine. The judge also ordered that all assets recovered from the defendant be disposed with the proceeds transmitted to the British High Commission for onward transmission to the victim of the crime. Operatives of Operation Puff Adder from the Nigeria Police Force have rescued five Chinese nationals and 22 others in Kaduna State. The Chinese nationals were kidnapped on April 15, 2019, in Bobi area of Niger State and rescued on May 5, 2019, from a forest in Birnin Gwari, following investigative efforts by both air and ground surveillance. The Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Frank Mba, confirmed the rescue operation in a statement released on Thursday and according to him, two kidnappers died from injuries sustained during the exchange of gunfire with the police in the course of the rescue mission. Twenty-two (22) other kidnap victims were also rescued in Zamfara state and other parts of the country in continuation of the efforts of the Nigeria Police Force to speedily bring to an end the current internal security challenges being experienced in some parts of the country, he said. Mba also noted that the Inspector General of Police, Mohammed Adamu, has rolled out new counter-kidnapping operational strategies. The new strategies, which are purposeful and intelligence-driven are targeted at identifying, locating and dismantling kidnapping gangs across the nation and bringing the kidnappers and their collaborators to justice. The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has denied organizing a retreat for its governor-elect from May 16th to 22nd 2019 in Dubai. A poster containing the portraits of all the serving governors and governors-elect on the platform of the PDP indicating that the retreat would have the theme; Getting Ready for the Task., has been making the rounds on social media. According to the poster, the retreat would be held in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and precisely at The Retreat Palm, Dubai MGallery by Sofitel East Crescent, the Palm Jumeirah-Dubai. The poster had the PDP colours of red, white and green as well as the partys logo. However, the spokesperson of the party, Kola Ologbondiyan in a chat with DailyTrust, said he was not aware of the governors planned meeting in Dubai. A text message from him read Im not aware. Recall that the PDP leaders led by the partys National Chairman, Prince Uche Secondus as well as the PDP presidential candidate for the February 23, 2019 election, Atiku Abubakar held a strategy meeting in Dubai, prior to the 2019 general elections. With Donald Trump in the White House, US-Iran ties have snapped. The deal his predecessor had struck with Tehran to contain its nuclear ambitions is all but dead, the US has said its sending its USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier to the Gulf, and Iran has threatened to resume its uranium enrichment to levels that could put nukes within its reach. The US deployment is claimed to be based on unspecified intelligence inputs of potential Iranian aggression in the region. Last month, Trump sought to choke Irans oil exports by stiffening sanctions, a move that is likely to make Irans economy shrink and cause domestic hardship. Washington had also re-classified the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps, an elite security force, as a terrorist organization. Iran had responded by threatening to blockade the Strait of Hormuz, through which much of the Gulfs oil exports are shipped. Some analysts believe the US merely wants to guard these tankers. Yet, there is no saying what could precipitate a flare-up involving deadly fire-arms. All this makes the Gulf a global hotspot once again. It is not as if Iran has not tried to exercise clout in the region before by seeking to clamp the Strait of Hormuz. What is worrisome this time is that US-ally Israel appears to have Trumps ear on the wider threat allegedly posed by Iran, often via proxy militia forces such as the Hizbullah, to peace in the Middle East. If the US buys the argument that Irans presumed nukes Tehran denies any attempt to use uranium for weaponsneed to be neutralized by a pre-emptive strike, then a war would ensue. That would be disastrous, and not only for its effect on global oil prices. As the old saying of World War II vintage goes, the jaw-jaw of talks is always preferable to the war-war of armed conflict. Subscribe to Mint Newsletters * Enter a valid email * Thank you for subscribing to our newsletter. Never miss a story! Stay connected and informed with Mint. Download our App Now!! Topics More than 100 lions at a captive breeding facility in South Africa have been found to be neglected, ill and covered with mange. According to the Humane Society International, the lions were discovered on April 11 by inspectors with the National Council of Societies for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. Inspectors told TimesLive, a South African news site, that two lion cubs were suffering from neurological problems and couldn't walk and that 27 lions had lost much of their fur because of the mange, which is caused by parasitic mites. "Other issues such as small enclosures and inadequate shelter, no provision of water, overcrowding, and filthy and parasitic conditions were noted in the camps that contained the lions, caracals, tigers and leopards," senior inspector Douglas Wolhuter told the news site. [In Photos: The Lions of Kenya's Masai Mara] Many of the lions had lost most of their fur due to mange, which is caused by parasitic mites. (Image credit: Conservation Action Trust) Animal cruelty groups that oppose captive breeding of lions were quick to condemn the site, Pienika Farm in South Africa's North West province. Audrey Delsink, the wildlife director of the Humane Society International, said in a statement that lion cubs taken from their mothers are often passed off as orphans at the facilities. The animals are then hand-reared and semitamed so that they can be used as a tourist attraction for visitors who want to feed or pet a lion. "Once [the animals become] too big and dangerous for these activities, these lions are then killed for their bones, which are exported to Asia for traditional medicines, or [the lions are] sold to be killed by trophy hunters, largely from the United States, in 'canned' hunts in which hand-reared lions are shot in a fenced area from which they cannot escape," Delsink said. In August 2018, South Africa's parliament reviewed the captive breeding of lions and resolved to reduce the export quota for lion bone as well as conduct a deeper policy review on the oversight of captive breeding, according to a government statement. However, the South Africa Department of Environmental Affairs has proposed introducing additional regulations, rather than ending captive breeding, according to the nonprofit Conservation Action Trust. The owner of Pienika Farm, Jan Steinman, faces criminal charges for animal cruelty, according to the U.K. newspaper The Times. Steinman is a councilwoman of the South African Predator Association, a body that sets the standards for animal welfare at lion-breeding facilities. Originally published on Live Science. Chevron said Thursday it will bow out and allow the smaller Occidental Petroleum to win the nearly $40 billion bidding war for Anadarko Petroleum. Houston-based Oxy's dogged determination allowed it to acquire The Woodlands oil and gas producer and its prized assets in West Texas' booming Permian Basin, a move that should keep Oxy as the Permian's top producer for the foreseeable future. Chevron's decision culminates an operatic takeover battle between the California supermajor and Oxy that is unprecedented in the energy sector this century. Anadarko initially agreed to be bought by Chevron, spurning Oxy's bigger officer in the process, only for Oxy to keep sweetening the deal until Anadarko could no longer say no. Chevron simply said it didn't want to overpay and opted to walk away. "Winning in any environment doesn't mean winning at any cost," said Chevron Chief Executive Michael Wirth. "Cost and capital discipline always matter, and we will not dilute our returns or erode value for our shareholders for the sake of doing a deal." By backing out, Chevron leaves the table with a consolation prize of a $1 billion breakup fee, which it said it will dedicate mostly to an increased share repurchase program, also giving Chevron the option of chasing other acquisitions. "Capital discipline just earned our shareholders $1 billion," added a Chevron spokesman. The deal is expected to put Occidental on a tier with Houston's ConocoPhillips as the biggest independent oil and gas producers - although Oxy also owns pipeline and petrochemical businesses - and only below the Big Oil majors like Chevron and Exxon Mobil. "We look forward to signing a merger agreement with Anadarko and realizing value for our shareholders as soon as possible," Oxy said Thursday in a prepared statement after Chevron backed out. More Information STAY INFORMED: Text CHRON to 77453 to get breaking news alerts by text | Sign up to receive breaking news alerts delivered to your email here. See More Collapse Oxy moved its headquarters from Los Angeles to Houston five years ago and has increasingly focused on Permian growth. But, behind the scenes, Oxy and its Chief Executive Vicki Hollub have pursued Anadarko for nearly two years, hoping to further boost its Permian position and diversify with other assets in Colorado, Wyoming, the Gulf of Mexico and beyond. Chevron, however, swooped in earlier this year, seemingly stealing Anadarko from under Oxy. Nearly a month ago, Anadarko turned down Oxy's bigger offers and accepted Chevron's $33 billion bid at $65 per share, deeming Chevron a better fit and a safer long-term value. RELATED: Oxy makes new Anadarko offer for nearly 80% in cash Oxy though upped its offer to about $38 billion at $76 per share, critically increasing the cash portion of its cash-and-stock bid from 25 percent to nearly 80 percent in order to assuage the concerns of many investors and to avoid a shareholder vote. In the meantime, Oxy recruited Warren Buffett and his Berkshire Hathaway firm to commit $10 billion to help finance the deal and secure an ownership stake in the expanded Oxy. Oxy also agreed to sell Anadarko's Africa assets for $8.8 billion to the French energy major Total. The cornerstone part of that deal, the multibillion-dollar Mozambique liquefied natural gas project, is expected to begin heavy construction this summer before the handoff to Total in 2020. But that doesn't mean everything within Oxy is copacetic. Investors such as T. Rowe Price and famed corporate raider Carl Icahn have expressed some level of concern or opposition to the deal. Oxy also likely will suffer a downgraded investment rating by winning the bidding war, the debt rating agency Moody's Investors Service said Wednesday. Oxy will have to take on substantial debt to buy Anadarko, including The Woodlands' oil and gas producer's existing $17 billion debt load, said Moody's Vice President Andrew Brooks. Oxy has pledged to make debt reduction a top priority after closing the Anadarko acquisition near the end of this year. Now, the big question is what will happen to Anadarko's big campus in The Woodlands and its nearly 2,000 employees there. Chevron had pledged to keep the campus open and retain many of the workers, but Oxy has thus far declined to comment on the topic. Oxy, which has about 3,000 Houston-area workers, already is planning to move its headquarters from Houston's Greenway Plaza to ConocoPhillips' old hub in the Energy Corridor. This is a developing story. Please check back for more. Due to expected severe weather this afternoon and evening, all Huffman ISD schools will have early release. Hargrave High School and Huffman Middle School will be released at 1:30 p.m. Huffman Elementary School and Falcon Ridge Elementary School will be released at 2:45. STAY INFORMED: Get all the news you need to know to start your day, delivered to your inbox We will continue to monitor the weather and conditions in our area throughout the day and night and will post updates regarding plans for tomorrow, Huffman ISD posted on its Facebook page. Thank you to all parents for your patience and support. Decisions like this are always based on the safety of our students and staff. The National Weather Service issued the watch for all of southeast Texas as forecasters predict a wet weekend in the Houston area. STORM PHOTOS: Readers share photos of severe flooding across Houston About 5 to 8 inches of rain are expected over the next three days, with up to 12 inches possible in some areas. The Storm Prediction Center says there's a slight risk for severe storms today across nearly all counties in southeast Texas, with possible strong wind, hail and isolated tornadoes. That comes after overnight storms Tuesday to Wednesday dumped 10 to 12 inches of rain on isolated parts of Harris and Fort Bend counties. School was canceled for all Huffman ISD campuses yesterday. Peru's former presidents are falling one by one and the Andean nation's political class is teetering and spooked. Opposition officials say Jose Domingo Perez, who is the face of the corruption investigation that's implicated four former chief executives and dozens of lesser officials, is hounding their leaders. On Wednesday, the team to which Perez belongs charged Ollanta Humala and his wife with money laundering. Last month, Humala's predecessor killed himself as police arrived and another ex-president was placed under house arrest. Even as prosecutors sort through a flood of evidence, lawmakers vow to make it harder to imprison uncharged suspects and some are calling for Perez to quit after ex-President Alan Garcia's suicide. But ordinary Peruvians, weary of corruption and wary of previous efforts to remove Perez, wear his image on their T-shirts. Across Latin America, lawyers and judges fighting self-dealing have become popular heroes. Guatemala's former attorney general Thelma Aldana, who jailed the president, vice president and central bank chief, is a leading presidential candidate. Sergio Moro, who spearheaded Brazil's investigation into continent-wide bribery by construction giant Odebrecht SA, became justice minister in January. Perez, a bespectacled 42-year-old with a meticulous courtroom manner, is top prosecutor on the team cleaning up Peru's Odebrecht mess and has become the latest legal paladin. "They've won a lot of support, because people feel they express this very frustrated desire for justice," said Hernan Chaparro, head of polling research at the Institute of Peruvian Studies. "Some might call it judicial populism, but they've ended up filling a vacuum of leadership." For more than a decade, Latin American governments handed Odebrecht billions to build airports, highways, railways and dams, but the gold rush stopped after Brazilian federal police investigating tax fraud at a car wash stumbled onto the builder's trail of graft. Odebrecht agreed with U.S. authorities in 2016 to pay the largest corruption penalty ever, spurring other countries into action. Perez's team alone has opened more than 30 cases, and is gathering pace after prosecutors signed a plea deal with the company to gain access to testimony and documents about payoffs. Prosecutors last month questioned the former head of Odebrecht's Peru operations, Jorge Barata, and he detailed more than $40 million in campaign donations and kickbacks. His testimony, and the promise of 4,000 pages of evidence, may lead to further arrests. On Wednesday, Humala and his wife, Nadine Heredia, became the first Peruvian officials to be indicted. Meanwhile, public approval of the attorney general's office headed by Zoraida Avalos surged to a record 38 percent from 25 percent a month earlier, in a poll published April 28 by the Institute of Peruvian Studies. Avalos has asked the government for money to expand the investigation team and relocated it from an office on a noisy downtown highway to a building opposite the Lima Stock Exchange. But since Garcia's suicide, criticism is growing, and opposition parties are moving to curb pretrial arrests that prosecutors say prevent suspects from fleeing or impeding investigations. Milagros Salazar, a lawmaker with Fuerza Popular, whose leader Keiko Fujimori was jailed in the probe, said Perez's tactics led to Garcia's suicide and he should resign. "You can't put someone in jail and then investigate to see what you find," Salazar said. "This is political persecution.'' Perez, who declined to be interviewed, has worked for years to achieve such notoriety and acclaim. He was born and raised in Arequipa, a southern region whose inhabitants have a Texan-like reputation for pride and independence. Trained as a lawyer, he joined the attorney general's office in 2005. In the southern town of Moquegua, he investigated Peru's current president, Martin Vizcarra, for his role in instigating 2008 street demonstrations during which protesters held 50 police officers. Manuel Bernedo, a Moquegua colleague, said Perez was diligent, persistent and prepared assiduously, often reciting arguments in his office the night before. "He was always very bold in his investigations," Bernedo said. "Some people said he went too far at times, but that was his character.'' Perez studied for a master's degree in public administration at Lima's Esan business school in 2015, where he wrote a thesis on prosecuting corruption. He finished at the top of his class. "He was a serious, dedicated and reserved student," said professor Cesar Fuentes. Perez joined the Odebrecht team in 2017 and quickly took on one of the thorniest cases: investigating Keiko Fujimori, daughter of former autocrat Alberto Fujimori and head of the biggest party in Congress. Perez accused her of laundering $1 million from Odebrecht through her 2011 presidential campaign. Fujimori denies the allegations, but in October, Perez secured an order to jail her and her inner circle for three years for attempting to sabotage his investigation. During a hearing, he read texts in which Popular Force lawmakers discussed ways to discredit him and "give him a bashing.'' The hearing made Perez a star. Next came Garcia. Twice president, he had moved to Madrid after polling poorly in the 2016 race. He flew to Lima in November for questioning by Perez and was unexpectedly prevented from leaving for 18 months. Prosecutors say Garcia led a ring of corrupt officials during his second government, from 2006 to 2011, collecting bribes and helping Odebrecht win contracts that included a billion-dollar light-rail line. One former official confessed to receiving $1.3 million from the builder and delivering cash to Garcia, sometimes at the presidential palace. A court ordered Garcia's arrest April 17 along with eight others. Police arrived at his home early that morning, but before they could arrest him, he shot himself. At a vigil, Alfredo Barnechea, a former lawmaker from Garcia's Apra party, said Perez's team was part of a "judicial mafia." Two days later, a detention order for former President Pedro Pablo Kuczynski was a tipping point. The 80-year-old was hospitalized for a heart condition when police came to handcuff him. Politicians from all sides said jailing him was going too far. Even Vizcarra said preventive prison now seemed the rule rather than the exception. Prosecutors relented, requesting house arrest. But Apra lawmakers are preparing a bill to shorten preventive prison terms from as long as 36 months, and to enable the removal of judges who impose the measure too often. Despite the controversy, Perez's probe is a juggernaut, said Gino Costa, an independent lawmaker. "It's going to advance slowly, one battle at a time," he said. "This is a demonstration of the vitality of Peruvian democracy. It shows that in Peru, no one's above the law." In an effort to compensate for the higher cost of water in Laredo, City Council on Monday discussed lowering the tax rate by either one penny or three pennies per $100 property valuation. They asked to have both scenarios presented to them during the budget workshops that typically take place in August. Last year, Council dropped the tax rate by one third of a penny, from $0.637 to $0.634 per $100 value. This saved the owner of a $150,000 home about $4 this year. Citizen David Cardwell, who spoke before Council on this issue, said a 1-cent decrease is not enough. A show of good faith would be to lower the rate down to $0.60 per $100 value, he said, which would save households about $51 next year. A 60-cent tax rate, Cardwell noted, would still be higher than the property tax rates for the cities of San Antonio, McAllen, Eagle Pass and Austin. Councilman Merc Martinez III said the proposed 1-cent decrease to $0.624 would help to cancel out the larger bills that water users will soon be paying, since council voted to bump up water and wastewater rates on Monday. READ MORE: Councilman changes mind on raising water rates This 1-cent property tax decrease would shave off about $15 from the property tax bill of a $150,000 home in 2020. For rate payers that use 5,000 gallons of water a month, they will be paying an additional $24 in 2020. So what were doing here is signaling our intent, which is to start lowering taxes as Council did last year and to have a very concerted effort to continue to bring down the tax rate so we can foster economic development in our city, Councilman Marte Martinez said. The citys economy should be based on sales tax rather than property tax, he said, in order to increase their competitiveness and movement of commerce. Mayor Pete Sanez said that when he voted in favor of the water rate hike, in his mind it was a conditional decision. If were going to hit the rate payer one way, Id want to benefit him some other way. So Im sticking to that 1 percent and possibly even more, Saenz said. ... But lets wait for the budget process and see exactly where we stand. Rosario Cabello, interim co-city manager, said she had a very serious talk with the citys financial adviser about the 1-cent decrease. She said her concern was the citys bonding capacity and ratings by creditors. I would ask you to allow us to continue to look at things, meet with the departments, see where we can cut, see where we can massage things and then make this decision during the budget process when we bring things forward to you, Cabello said. Staff will present two proposals for council: a budget with a 1-cent property tax decrease and another with a 3.4-cent decrease. This is exciting! said Noe Hinojosa, the citys outside financial adviser. I cant wait to be here in June, I guess. My goodness. But I think your requests are fair. I think youre going to have two policy issues: how much you can afford to go down, the other one is at what expense. READ MORE: Council approves water rate increase in final vote He also noted that the citys sales tax and bridge toll revenues are up this year. But a tweet can change things, and I dont have to expand on that. Those conversations come up all the time. The border seems to be more uncertain than in the past, Hinojosa said. Martin Villarreal, chief appraiser at the Webb County Appraisal District, told LMT that he estimates the City of Laredos net taxable value will increase by about $784 million this year. Of that amount, about $303 million comes from new properties added to the tax roll, he said, adding that this brings the citys estimated net taxable value to $14.9 billion. These numbers are not yet official. Villarreal said he plans to certify the rolls by July 25. Julia Wallace may be reached at 956-728-2543 or jwallace@lmtonline.com WASHINGTON - The District of Columbia Court of Appeals on Thursday disbarred Paul Manafort, President Donald Trump's former campaign chairman, because Manafort has been convicted of obstruction of justice and conspiracy. Manafort, who was admitted to the D.C. bar in 1979, pleaded guilty last year in U.S. District Court in Washington to the charges. He was also convicted at a trial in Alexandria, Virginia, federal court of eight bank and tax fraud charges stemming from millions he made in Ukraine and his attempts to get loans when that funding dried up. Manafort, 70, was sentenced to 7 1/2 years in prison for both convictions. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 9) In what the Philippine Navy described as a historic first, the country's patrol vessel BRP Andres Bonifacio is sailing together with the ships of three other countries in the South China Sea. Navies of the Philippines, India, Japan and the U.S. are traveling accross the vital waterway as part of the ASEAN Defense Ministers' Meeting (ADMM)-Plus Maritime Security Field Training Exercise, the Philippine Navy said in a press release Thursday. It added that the ships are on their way to the second phase of the maritime exercise in Changi, Singapore. Navy spokesman Capt. Jonathan Zata said the ongoing transit may last for five to seven days, but stressed authorities cannot disclose their exact location. The Navy in its press release also said the ships will conduct "freedom of safe navigation" exercises in the West Philippine Sea, but no further details were given as to when and where exactly. The West Philippine Sea covers areas in the disputed South China Sea which the Philippines claims. "This combined transit exercise aimed to deepen the partnership and foster mutual understanding between participant countries," the Philippine Navy said. Captain Roy Vincent Trinidad, who led the Philippine delegation, said it was "another opportunity to learn from like-minded navies," and a way to strengthen the country's ties with its allies. BRP Andres Bonifacio is joined by the Japan's JS Izumo (DDH-183) and JS Murasame (DD-101), India's INS Kolkata (D63) and Shakti (A57), and the U.S.'s USS William P. Lawrence (DDG-110). Japan, India, and the U.S. have no claims in the South China Sea but the U.S. conducts freedom-of-navigation operations as it calls out China for alleged militarization of contested areas. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo in his visit to the Philippines in March said the U.S. will secure and defend the Philippines in case of an attack in the disputed South China Sea but when or how the U.S. will step in in case of an attack remains unclear. Bejing rejects the 2016 arbitration ruling that invalidated its sweeping claims to virtually the entire South China Sea. The ruling recognized the Philippines' sovereign rights in sea features being claimed by China that are within Manila's 200-nautical mile exclusve economic zone. The Philippines recently invoked the landmark ruling as it protested the swarming of Chinese vessels and Chinese fishermen's harvesting of giant clams in areas claimed by the country. TOKYO - North Korea launched two short-range missiles on Thursday in its second such test in under a week, part of an calibrated escalation of pressure on Washington that coincided almost exactly with a U.S. test of an inter-continental ballistic missile. Kim Jong Un has been ratcheting up its military displays with a series of rocket and missile tests - each a bit more provocative than the other - following the breakdown of his summit with President Donald Trump in Hanoi in February. North Korea's possible endgame remains difficult to decipher. Since Hanoi, there has been little apparent movement to restart talks on a potential deal to dismantle the North's nuclear program in exchange for lifting international sanctions and international development. But South Korean President Moon Jae-in said it seems Kim is "deeply discontented" by the unraveling of the Hanoi summit without a deal. "I think it was sort of a rebellious nature against both the United States and South Korea," Moon told South Korea's state broadcaster KBS. The timing of the latest launch also coincided with a visit to Seoul by Stephen Biegun, the U.S. special envoy for North Korea, as well as a trilateral defense meeting of the United States, Japan and South Korea. The two missiles were also launched as the United States conducted its own, scheduled launch of an intercontinental ballistic missile, from Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The North Korean launches occurred at 11 minutes before and nine minutes after the U.S. test. It was the second test of the U.S. Minuteman III missile this month and the third this year, although the Air Force says such tests are scheduled years in advance, and are not a response or reaction to world events or regional tensions. Nevertheless, North Korea's military is watching, and complained earlier on Thursday that it saw another U.S. test last week as a direct threat. Relations between Washington and Pyongyang have deteriorated sharply since the breakdown of the Hanoi summit over how much - and how fast - the North must take apart its nuclear sites. Nevertheless, Trump continues to insist that a deal is possible. Kim said he is prepared to meet Trump for a third time, but only if the United States changes its negotiating stance. "They are also showing efforts not to break the mood for talks," Moon said. But some experts took a less rosy view, arguing the tests were a signal that Kim is not prepared to return to talks on the terms being offered by Washington, and that he's responding to the U.S.-led "maximum pressure" campaign with pressure tactics of his own. "This is becoming a game of chicken between Kim and Trump," said Cheon Seong-whun, a former South Korean presidential national security adviser. "With neither of them swerving, this game can quickly develop into a dangerous one." In the latest tests, South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff said the two missiles were launched in an eastern direction from Kusong in North Pyongan province. They flew an estimated 260 miles and 170 miles, respectively, the statement said. On Saturday, Kim Jong Un personally supervised a test of multiple rocket launchers and "tactical guided weapons" from the country's east coast, according to state media. South Korea said the projectiles had traveled between 45 and 125 miles. Acting U.S. defense secretary Patrick Shanahan told Congress Saturday's test involved "rockets and missiles." North Korea's latest tests marked its first missile launches since it tested an intercontinental ballistic missile in November 2017. The launches were not entirely surprising. Pyongyang has been repeatedly signaling its frustration with Seoul over South Korea's military exercises and cooperation with the United States, and with Washington for what the North sees as its hostile attitude and unilateral demands. North Korea has warned that it would respond. Just days before Thursday's test, Moon secured Trump's approval to begin sending food aid to North Korea. South Korea also dispatched its unification minister on Wednesday to a joint liaison office in North Korea in an attempt to restart dialogue, noted Leif-Eric Easley, an associate professor at Ewha Womans University in Seoul. "For the Kim regime to test more projectiles on May 9 suggests it is not just making a show of strength for domestic politics. It is signaling that Pyongyang is not interested in the engagement currently on offer from Seoul or in working-level denuclearization talks with Washington," he said. Experts are still studying whether last week's launch involved a short-range ballistic missile, which would contravene multiple U.N. Security Council Resolutions, but that has not been confirmed by Seoul or Washington. Ballistic missiles arc up high into the atmosphere and are considered more dangerous than other missiles because they can hit distant targets with larger warheads at speeds that are difficult for defenses to intercept. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo appeared to play down Saturday's missile launch by suggesting it was "relatively short-range" and not a threat to the United States, South Korea or Japan. He noted that Kim had only pledged not to test intercontinental ballistic missiles. But South Korea's presidential Blue House in Seoul did express frustration. Spokeswoman Ko Min-jung said the launch "does not help at all with improving inter-Korean ties and alleviating military tensions on the Korean Peninsula, which is very concerning." On Wednesday, just before the latest launches, North Korea's Foreign Ministry argued that last week's test was "regular and self-defensive." In a separate statement, North Korea's military also noted that the "flying objects" had fallen into the country's own territorial waters on Saturday and argued that they did not threaten other countries. It called South Korea's criticism brazen nonsense and criticized Seoul for keeping "mum" after the last U.S. launch of the Minuteman III ICBM, which it said was meant to threaten North Korea. But while some experts say last week's test appeared to have involved a short-range ballistic missile, that has not yet been confirmed by Seoul or Washington. North Korea declared in April 2018 that it would discontinue nuclear tests and intercontinental ballistic missile tests. But the U.N. Security Council, which has imposed steadily tighter sanctions on North Korea, has demanded that Pyongyang cease any launches that use ballistic missile technology. Vipin Narang, an international security studies professor at MIT, said the risks mount with each test by the North. "Kim risks overshooting and provoking a furious Trump backlash if the latter feels betrayed," he wrote in an email. "And if this is an attempt to pressure the U.S. to moderate its negotiating position, it may backfire: The U.S. may only harden it to avoid looking like it's caving to North Korean tests and pressure. So, if this push-the-line strategy continues or intensifies, hold on to your hats." - - - The Washington Post's Min Joo Kim in Seoul contributed to this report. Words are important. Poet Kara Dorris knows this and champions their cause any chance shes given particularly in poetry. She has published four chapbooks and has had her poems published in various literary journals and anthologies. As an Illinois College visiting assistant professor of English, Dorris teaches poetry to IC students. What Im trying to teach my students is to incorporate poetry in (everyday) life, Dorris said. Poetry is an experience. Now shes also gearing up for her first full-length book of poems, Have Ruin, Will Travel, to be published. The book, which Dorris describes as part travelogue, chronicles two journeys one a trip across Europe and Asia and one an internal journey and how they intertwine. When we travel, we become both more and less ourselves, Dorris said, noting that travel forces growth the more of that statement by forcing people out of the routines that usually define who they are the less. The poems in Dorris book argue both for and against these states of being that we take for granted and dont think about every day, she said. While Dorris also writes essays, fiction and non-fiction, poetry is her favorite medium, she said. Poetry allows me to get my thoughts on the page, the level of clarity I want, she said. Its not always straightforward. You can talk about love, depression (and numerous other topics), disguise them (in a poem) and reach multiple audiences. Poetry also allows for multiple viewpoints, she said. The dual meaning that comes with poetry, it never means just one thing, Dorris said. There are multiple meanings. I like looking at things from both sides. Its more about letting the reader understand something themselves and come to their own conclusions. While Dorris isnt alone in championing poetry, poetry frequently struggles to find an audience in a world overflowing with messages in so many forms, she said. This is largely because poetry has a difficult reputation. Today we are given so much information, she said. We dont have to filter it anymore. Poetry is all about filtering. Writing it also isnt as easy as some would believe. Were so focused on the end result, the to-do list, Dorris said. Things we have to check off. Poetry is so much about the process. You write a poem and, maybe, 20 drafts later, its maybe done. But the work that goes into poetry is worth it, Dorris said. Poetry doesnt give you any answers but forces you to come up with your own answers and be OK with maybe not knowing everything, she said. Pre-orders Kara Dorris Have Ruin, Will Travel is available for pre-order online at finishinglinepress.com. The book, which costs $19.99, will ship Aug. 9. Angela Bauer can be reached at 217-408-2057. WASHINGTON - President Donald Trump on Thursday called on Congress to help protect American consumers from unexpectedly large medical bills after they go to the hospital. The president said that Democrats and Republicans alike should work quickly to stop "surprise" billing in the health-care industry. The unexpected bills are often high charges from doctors or facilities that are outside an insurer's network, often unbeknown to patients. Trump said these practices are bankrupting patients through "health-care costs that are absolutely out of control. No family should be blindsided by outrageous medical bills." In his remarks in the Roosevelt Room at the White House, Trump sought to align himself with aggrieved consumers as health-care costs emerge as a dominant theme in the 2020 presidential election. His remarks also struck a bipartisan tone as he wars with House Democrats about oversight investigations and policy disagreements. The presidential nudge could inject momentum into an issue on Capitol Hill about which there is broad consensus about a need for federal action - but fervent disagreements within the health-care industry over the details. Trump did not delve into many specifics but outlined contours of potential legislation where there tends to be agreement. He said patients who are taken to emergency rooms should not be charged extra if the hospitals or the ER doctors are outside the patients' insurance networks. Patients similarly should not be sent unexpectedly large bills if the hospitals and main physicians they choose for elective surgery are covered by their insurers, but an extra doctor - such as an anesthesiologist or radiologist - is not, he said. Trump's tone was uncommonly collaborative and bipartisan. "My administration is eager to work with both parties" to tame medical bills, Trump said. "From what I understand, we have bipartisan support, which is kind of shocking.""People are getting hammered right now," he said, urging Congress to adopt "one honest and fair transparent bill and stop the erosion of the public trust we are seeing." Public opinion surveys show broad concern about surprise medical bills - and a belief that the government should do something about them. A poll last month by the Kaiser Family Foundation found that 50 percent of the respondents said that protecting people from such bills should be a top priority for Congress, and 36 percent said it should be an important, though not a top, priority. That meant that surprise bills ranked just slightly behind lowering prescription drug costs and preserving insurance protections for people with preexisting medical conditions among the health-care issues that respondents wanted Congress to resolve. Senior administration officials, briefing reporters just before the president spoke, said that the White House also is urging Congress to require hospitals to tell elective-surgery patients in advance whether any of their care is to be provided by practitioners who are outside the patients' insurance networks and - if so - to require that the patients be given written price estimates and the opportunity to consent. The White House is not proposing an outright ban on billing patients extra for out-of-network elective care as long as patients are informed up front. Senior administration officials said the White House does not favor a system of binding arbitration over surprise bills between physicians who provide the care and the insurers as a means of determining the proper payment. That pleased the health-insurance industry, which opposes the idea of binding arbitration, contending that it leads to unnecessarily high payments. "Arbitration gives equal weight to inflated doctors' bills . . . [and] negotiated rates," said Adam Beck, vice president for policy of America's Health Insurance Plans, an industry trade group. But Vidor Friedman, an Orlando, Florida, emergency room doctor who is president of the American College of Emergency Physicians, said that in states such as New York, where arbitration has been tried, it is proving helpful in instances in which either doctors or insurers had unreasonably high or low rates. Still, Beck, Friedman and a major hospital trade group praised the White House for drawing attention to the issue. "We think that patients should be held harmless for these out-of-network charges to their expected cost-sharing, so the White House's interest focuses a light on an issue that Congress should address," said Charles "Chip" Kahn III, president of the Federation of American Hospitals. Trump had broached the issue of "price transparency" in his State of the Union address in early February. A bipartisan group of senators plans to introduce a bill this month to limit surprise bills, culminating nearly a year of legislative work on the issue. Two leaders of the group, Sens. Bill Cassidy, R-La., and Maggie Hassan, D-N.H., were among the senators attending the White House event. Hassan last fall introduced a separate bill on the issue that would have included arbitration. Speaking to reporters after White House event, Cassidy and Hassan indicated that they still favor such a process. The top Democrat and Republican on the House Energy and Commerce Committee said they also are developing bipartisan legislation to address the issue of surprise medical bills. "No family should be left in financial ruin through no fault of their own," Energy and Commerce Chairman Frank Pallone Jr., D-N.J., and the ranking Republican member, Greg Walden of Oregon, said in a joint statement. The Village Board last month concurred with a Zoning Board vote to allow the gas station on the lot, which has been vacant for more than two decades. The village accepted a $1 million bid from Oak Brook-based Exron Capital, Inc., the only company to bid on the property after it was put up for sale, Chmura said. Five of six South Jacksonville trustees have responded to a letter from Village President Harry Jennings vetoing a property tax rebate for the Sleep Inn hotel. The letter signed by trustees Dick Samples, Paula Belobrajdic-Stewart, Jason Hill, Tom Jordan and Todd Warrick was sent to Jennings on Tuesday. Board members received Jennings letter vetoing the measure Monday. Trustee Greg Nelson was the only trustee not to sign the letter. He was also the only trustee to vote against providing roughly $500,000 in Tax Increment Funds property tax rebates to Sleep Inn over the next 11 to 12 years. In the response, the trustees acknowledged Jennings right to veto the resolution but maintain he did it incorrectly. Jennings letter should have been issued at the next board meeting in June, they contend. First, the law you cite does permit you to disapprove in writing to any resolution or motion of the board, however, not until the next regular meeting of the board. the letter read. Your deployment of law enforcement resources to each of our homes to deliver a letter that should have been presented at the upcoming June meeting was, needless to say, wasteful. Now we must engage counsel for clarification at further taxpayer expense to advise us as to when your disapproval becomes final under the law, which is likely not until the June village meeting. The five trustees said in the letter that their vote was made in the best interest of the villages residents. [W]e have been elected to represent the citizens of the village of South Jacksonville, where we live, and in that capacity are routinely advised by counsel as to the potentially legality of any action we consider, this resolution being no exception, the letter said. The trustees said the mayor is entitled to his opinions, but they are equally free to disregard them, along with his recommendations, and vote for what we feel is best for the future of this village we call home, which we have chosen to do in this situation. The five trustees also sent a letter to Sleep Inn owner Bob Patel, apologizing that he was not notified of the veto decision. We sincerely regret that the village president chose not to notify you prior to announcing his hasty decision to the media, or anytime since, the letter said. That proper professional courtesies were not shown to you, we extend our apologies. Samantha McDaniel-Ogletree can be reached at 217-245-6121, ext. 1233, or on Twitter @JCNews_samantha. No one spelled out Europe's predicament over the escalating stand-off between the U.S. and Iran quite as bluntly as Russia. It's up to "the Europeans, who committed to find a solution to the problem created by the Americans, to fulfill their promise,'' said Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, during a joint news conference in Moscow with his Iranian opposite, Mohammad Zarif. That won't be easy, because after a year of casting around for ways to enable companies to safely circumvent U.S. sanctions to trade with and invest in Iran, Europe has come up empty. That is unlikely to change in the next 60 days, in which case the 2015 nuclear deal with Iran could be headed for a slow death. Europe again found itself squeezed between hostile governments in Washington and Tehran on Wednesday, when President Hassan Rouhani threatened to abandon some of the limits to its controversial nuclear fuel program that Iran agreed to in 2015, in exchange for the lifting of international sanctions. Manfred Weber, the candidate of Europe's Christian Democrats for European Commission president, was decidedly non-confrontational when asked about the spat at the EU's summit in Sibiu, Romania. "I think the European Union must again start talks with our Iranian friends," he said. "We do not want to see any further escalation of tensions." Iran's beef is with the U.S., which withdrew from the agreement last year. And it's likely to continue getting support from Russia and China, which in the past have continued to do business in Iran and buy its oil, despite U.S. sanctions. But Europe was the target of Rouhani's ultimatum on Wednesday, demanding that it start countering the effects of mounting U.S. sanctions within 60 days, or see Iran start walking away from the deal, too. "They're giving the Europeans a last chance,'' said Sir Richard Dalton, who served as Britain's ambassador in Tehran from 2003 to 2006. "So far, Europe hasn't delivered in a single one of the areas - transport, trade, investment, banking - where it promised Iran cooperation in 2018, when the U.S. pulled out.'' Dalton described Rouhani's announcement as carefully calibrated, so as not to immediately collapse the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, while at the same time persuading a domestic audience that the government was pushing back against U.S. economic pressure. Iran's economy contracted by 3.9 percent in 2018, and is forecast to shrink by a further 6 percent this year, according to the International Monetary Fund. The recent U.S. decision to end all waivers of sanctions against countries that buy Iranian oil exports is likely to exacerbate the country's economic woes further. France, Germany and Britain on Wednesday all recommitted to the 2015 deal, calling again for the U.S. to return to the agreement, while signaling that any Iranian backtracking would meet a response. "We and our partners stand by this treaty, without any caveats - and we expect Iran to implement the treaty in full as well, without caveats,'' said Germany's Foreign Minister Heiko Maas. The U.K.'s junior foreign minister, Mark Field, told Parliament the U.K. also stood by the deal, but said there would be "consequences" if Iran stopped meeting its nuclear commitments. Europe's thankless position isn't new. It has been caught between hawkish policies in the U.S. and Iran ever since international inspectors first confirmed the existence of Iran's secret nuclear fuel program in 2003. Still bruised from the U.S. decision to invade Iraq just months earlier, France, Germany and Britain took on the task of negotiating a solution with Tehran that the U.S. could accept. Their aim was to avoid a repeat of the Iraq war, and of the deep rifts that it caused within Europe as governments were forced to choose whether to back or oppose U.S. policy. Unlike the U.S., European nations also had significant economic interests to lose. Iran's ultimatum, together with the recent U.S. deployment of an aircraft carrier group and B-52 bombers to the Gulf, suggest those risks are back. U.S. Secretary of State Michael Pompeo canceled a meeting with German Chancellor Angela Merkel to visit Baghdad on Tuesday where he told Iraqi leaders the threat from Iran is growing. He told the Daily Telegraph that he'd received intelligence "that suggested it was a good time for me to go." Europe's governments are probably in a weaker position to push back against U.S. foreign policy choices than they were in the lead-up to the Iraq war, when France, Germany and a number of others joined with Russia to forcefully oppose the Iraq invasion. That's in part because Washington has since developed the use of secondary sanctions against non-U.S. companies into a powerful deterrent. The U.S. fined France's BNP Paribas SA $8.9 billion in 2015, for busting its sanctions on Iran, Cuba and Sudan. Last month, the German unit of UniCredit SpA agreed to pay $1.3 billion for busting U.S. sanctions on Iran. Companies, and governments, have become cautious. The EU is setting up a special purpose vehicle to help European companies safely finance the export of goods to Iran. Even this limited vehicle, however, known as the Instrument in Support of Trade Exchanges, has yet to start work. It would in any case do little or nothing to aid investment or trade in the wider Iranian economy. Europe's troubles aren't only with the U.S. In what could be seen as a veiled threat, Rouhani also talked Wednesday about the role Iran plays in reducing the flow of drugs and refugees to Europe. Iran hosts about 1 million registered refugees from Afghanistan, and as many as 1.5 million more who are unregistered. At the same time, the non-financial stakes for Europe in defying the U.S. on Iran may also have risen in recent years. President Donald Trump has made it clear his government sees both support for Europe's defense in the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, and trans-Atlantic trade as negotiable in ways that no U.S. president has before. "The underlying issue,'' said Dalton, the former U.K. ambassador, "is whether Europe remains a sovereign force.'' --- Bloomberg's Kitty Donaldson, Arne Delfs and Andra Timu contributed to report. U.S. authorities have seized a North Korean ship allegedly used to sell coal in violation of international sanctions, the first such move by Justice Department officials as they ratchet up enforcement efforts against the regime in Pyongyang. Justice Department officials Thursday confirmed that the vessel, the Wise Honest, was approaching U.S. territorial waters in American Samoa, in coordination with the U.S. Marshals Service and the Coast Guard. "This sanctions-busting ship is now out of service," Assistant Attorney General John Demers said in announcing the seizure. The 17,601-ton, single-hull bulk carrier ship is one of North Korea's largest, and U.S. authorities said it was part of a network of North Korean vessels illicitly shipping coal from that country and bringing back heavy machinery in violation of U.N. and U.S. sanctions. Last year, Indonesian authorities stopped the ship on suspicion of violating sanctions. More recently, they allowed the ship to offload its coal cargo onto another vessel, which departed for Malaysia. After U.N. monitors raised alarms, Malaysia denied that ship, the Dong Thanh, entry to one of its ports, said Hugh Griffiths, who until last month led a team of U.N. monitors tracking North Korea sanctions. The Dong Thanh is anchored just off the coast of Malaysia, "unable to unload its cargo of coal anywhere," Griffiths said. The announcement came just hours after North Korea launched a pair of short-range missiles, the regime's second such test in the past week, and marked an escalation of U.S. government pressure on Pyongyang - even as President Trump has spoken glowingly about North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. Geoffrey Berman, the U.S. attorney in New York whose office filed the complaint against the Wise Honest, said that "there's no connection at all" between the missile strikes and the vessel's seizure. Separately on Thursday, U.S. military officials conducted a scheduled launch of an intercontinental ballistic missile from an Air Force facility in California. It was the second test of the U.S. Minuteman III missile this month and the third this year, though the Air Force maintains that such activity is scheduled years in advance and not in response to world events. Trump told reporters Thursday that the U.S.-North Korea relationship "continues, but we'll see what happens. I know they want to negotiate. They're talking about negotiating, but I don't think they're ready to negotiate." The papers filed in federal court in New York said shipments by the Wise Honest and other North Korean vessels "provide a critical source of revenue" for North Korea's government and companies based there. "Large quantities of coal were exported from North Korea . . . in violation of United Nations Security Council prohibitions," the 32-page filing said. "In return, large shipments of heavy machinery were returned to North Korea using the same vessels." The court filing says payments for improvements to the Wise Honest were conducted via U.S. banks, also in violation of sanctions. Experts have said that to evade sanctions, North Korea conducts its illicit trading with a fleet of ghost ships that have false names painted on their hulls, steal identification numbers from other vessels and execute their trades via ship-to-ship transfers at sea to avoid prying eyes at ports. Demers said the United States would like to seize other ships used by North Korea to violate sanctions. In the case of the Wise Honest, a globe-trotting North Korean salesman arranged the 2018 shipment by holding meetings at North Korea's embassy in Jakarta, then paid an Indonesian broker through bank transfers facilitated by JPMorgan Chase, according to bank documents and other evidence gathered by sanctions monitors. Griffiths, the former U.N. monitor, said the Wise Honest has links to a North Korean network previously caught attempting to smuggle arms. Until 2017, the ship was partly owned by a Hong Kong-registered company called Vast Win (Hong Kong) Ltd., according to the Justice Department complaint. Vast Win owned a separate ship seized by Egyptian authorities in 2016 for carrying an illicit cargo of 30,000 rocket-propelled grenades manufactured in North Korea, Griffiths said. Ownership of the Wise Honest was transferred, he surmised, because the arms seizure in Egypt probably rendered Vast Win "no longer a good company to use for North Korean smuggling and vessel ownership." Attempts to contact representatives of Vast Win were unsuccessful. North Korea was vexed by the Wise Honest's seizure in Indonesia and tried to dispatch Vice Foreign Minister Choe Son Hui to Indonesia earlier this year to inspect the ship and discuss its return, according to a person familiar with the matter. But the Indonesians told Western diplomats they intended to deny her a visa, and she never visited, the person said. Indonesian officials did not immediately respond to a request for comment. U.N. monitors say sanctions enforcement is dependent on the willingness of other countries to assist in seizures and charges when violations are discovered. In a separate case last month, a federal judge in the District of Columbia approved a set of subpoenas targeting the financial records of Chinese banks that might show how the North Korean regime has sought to evade sanctions over its nuclear program. In that case, investigators are looking into whether a Hong Kong corporation may have helped North Korea evade sanctions. - - - The Washington Post's Simon Denyer in Tokyo contributed to this report. VATICAN CITY - Pledging that clerical sexual abuse should "never happen again," Pope Francis on Thursday issued a sweeping new law aimed at holding leadership more accountable while overhauling how the Roman Catholic Church deals with accusations of abuse and coverup. The rules - a mix of common-sense requirements and more technical provisions - are the church's first major step to formalize all stages of fielding and investigating abuse claims, a process that has previously been subject to improvisation. When the rules come into force June 1, priests and nuns will be required for the first time to report abuse accusations to church authorities. Dioceses will be given a year to set up offices or other systems for receiving abuse complaints while offering protection for victims and whistleblowers. And perhaps most significantly, a new method will be used to investigate complaints of abuse or coverup against bishops and other higher-ups - an attempt to address one of the scandal-plagued church's long-standing trouble spots. "We must continue to learn from the bitter lessons of the past," Francis wrote in the introduction to the edict. The rules are Francis's latest attempt to contend with an abuse crisis that has eroded the reputation of the church and his papacy. The Vatican document comes nearly three months after Francis hosted a landmark clerical abuse summit in Rome and pledged concrete action to address the scourge. "This is a very strong signal," said Archbishop Charles Scicluna of Malta, a Vatican official who has investigated abuse cases. "Nobody in the leadership is above the law." But some church watchdogs said the new rules fall short, because they keep the handling of cases in-house. "I do think that it is a good thing that the church is continuing to work on this," said Zach Hiner, executive director of the Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests. But Hiner said the church erred in thinking it could handle abuse internally, changing laws but still relying on "the very same church structures that have been receiving and routing abuse allegations for years." The rules also do not address the contentious question of how to punish clerics convicted of abuse or coverup in church trials. The law is in place for a three-year trial run and could be changed after that, depending on how the new rules play out. It is unclear, for instance, how the church will safeguard whistleblowers and whether an institution known for protecting its own can alter a culture through legal changes. The rules do not specify any punishments for clerics who do not report abuse. Predictions among experts on Thursday ranged widely over which aspects of the law, if any, would be most transformative. One major aspect, though, regards the policing of bishops - an issue that has long confounded the church. Bishops are answerable only to the pope, and for decades they have been able to escape rigid oversight. The new provisions outline a way in which bishops can help police their own ranks, the first time such a system has been put in place. The rules lean on a miniature, de facto hierarchy within regions. If a bishop is accused of abuse or coverup, a so-called metropolitan bishop - the figure who heads the largest regional diocese - can begin looking into the case with the backing of the Holy See. The metropolitan bishop is supposed to work on a set timetable and deliver his findings to the Vatican. But there are exceptions to this system. If a metropolitan bishop himself is accused, another bishop in the region is chosen to investigate, based on seniority. And the Vatican has the option to choose somebody else entirely. In all cases, lay experts can be involved, though it is not a requirement. The steps for handling complaints of abuse and coverup against bishops borrow heavily from a proposal made by Cardinal Blase Cupich of Chicago during February's summit on abuse. Cupich is a close Francis ally. In presenting his ideas, Cupich said that "this past year has taught us that the systematic failures in holding clerics of all rank responsible are due in large measure to flaws in the way we interact and communicate with each other in the college of bishops." The laws also require all priests and nuns to swiftly report allegations of abuse or coverup to religious authorities. Previously, there was nothing on paper mandating them to report, though some were compelled by their conscience. Although the clerics aren't explicitly required to report abuse allegations to police - a contentious issue within the church - the laws do state that church officials should comply with "any reporting obligations to the competent civil authorities." The guidelines cover cases of sexual abuse not only against minors, but also against vulnerable adults and seminarians who are abused by someone in power. Over the past year, the church has faced an onslaught of cases in which higher-ups have been implicated - a notable shift from earlier decades, when the focus was primarily on individual priests. In the United States, former cardinal Theodore McCarrick was defrocked earlier this year after a church trial found him guilty of abuse. In Australia, Cardinal George Pell is appealing his criminal conviction for the sexual assault of two boys. In France, Cardinal Philippe Barbarin was convicted in March of failing to report abuse accusations, the first time a church higher-up has faced criminal punishment in such a case. The guidelines released Thursday could provide a starting point for discussions among U.S. bishops, who are preparing for an assembly in June. At a prior meeting in November, those U.S. Catholic leaders were set to vote on measures that would improve the handling of abuse cases. But the Vatican, controversially, intervened to stop the vote. In a statement Thursday, Cardinal Daniel DiNardo, president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, said the United States already has a framework in place that involves zero tolerance, the use of lay experts and a stipulation for reporting abuse to civil authorities. U.S. Catholics, he said, are positioned "readily to bring the Holy Father's instructions to action." DiNardo said national-level bishops' conferences still have the "latitude" to enact their own measures. "In publishing this new law, which is applicable to the Church throughout the world, Pope Francis has made clear that protection and healing must reach all of God's children," DiNardo said. About the chef: Trama has been with the Center for Visual and Performing Arts since it opened in 1989 and began offering the champagne brunch. I started as a chef. In 2010 I took over the catering and in 2017 I took over the total catering operation for food and beverage, he said. We want to convey the process of our financial recovery. We know the media can focus on things that are negative. Its up to us to share positive information, like effective programming. Houston Community College has postponed its graduation commencement ahead of heavy rain and flooding predicted for the weekend. The university announced the delay in a Thursday release, stating that the ceremonies planned for Saturday were rescheduled for 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. next Friday, May 17 at NRG Stadium. HCC apologizes for any inconvenience, but the safety of its students is its number one concern, the release read. The decision came after the National Weather Service issued a continuous flash flood watch for the entire Southeast Texas area starting 1 p.m. Thursday until Saturday night. The weather services Storm Prediction Center also forecasts a slight risk of possible severe storms in nearly all southeast Texas counties, accompanied by strong wind, hail and isolated tornadoes. The alert followed the overnight storms Tuesday to Wednesday dumped 10 to 12 inches of rain on isolated parts of Harris and Fort Bend counties, causing flooding in some areas. HCC stated that it will post updates to its website and on its social media accounts, including Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Snapchat, throughout the week. Those with questions or concerns can also email the school directly at graduation@hccs.edu. No other announcements of postponements have been announced for other colleges, but Mike Rosen, a spokesman or the University of Houston, said the school will be closely monitoring the weather ahead of its Friday and Saturday commencements. Prairie View A&M University is making every reasonable effort to host its outdoor Saturday commencement ceremony at its Panther Stadium as planned, according to university spokeswoman Candace Johnson. The university will be also monitoring NWS and meeting with universitys officials and the Student Government Association to ensure the safety and security of graduates and their guests, Johnson. As a rainy-day alternative, the university has distributed four tickets per graduate for access to the Billy Nicks Building, also known as the Baby Dome, and an additional six tickets to give their guests access to six remote viewing locations, which include the Student Recreation Center, university auditoriums and a recital hall. In the case that there is light rain and non-severe weather, the ceremony will continue but could be shortened, she wrote. Staff writer Julian Gill contributed to this report. brittany.britto@chron.com twitter.com/brittanybritto The extra employees are an essential part of the Love Your Block program that is meant to bolster neighborhood revitalization efforts across the country, with Freeman-Wilson saying the workers are essential to Gary being able to comply with the programs goals. Six Mothers Days have passed since I began working with TexProtects, the Texas chapter of Prevent Child Abuse America. All were meaningful, because mothers are central to our mission, but this one deepened my perspective its my first as a mother. In our efforts to prevent trauma from abuse and neglect, TexProtects promotes and builds effective policies and programs helping new mothers and families deal with the life-changing stresses that come with newborns and young children. Now, through seemingly never-ending late-night feedings, cries I just cant soothe and frantic internet searches looking for answers to unanticipated questions, I understand how crucial this is. This precious little gift is a great responsibility that would be difficult to handle alone. I am fortunate and grateful to have my husband at my side every step of the way, family nearby, a supportive church, steady income, paid leave and good health during my lifes most meaningful and joyful yet challenging experience. I spent years meticulously planning for this moment, including gleaning a wealth of knowledge from my career. I know there are many new mothers across Texas in very different circumstances. Some are very young. Many are alone maybe kicked out of their homes or fleeing from an abusive situation. Some are struggling with postpartum depression or mental illness, or fighting their way out of addiction. They may lack confidence, parenting knowledge or reliable relationships to help, especially if their own parents abused or neglected them. Abuse and neglect are cyclical. These mothers situations do not predetermine that their children will be abused or neglected but they dramatically increase the odds. Helping these mothers is key to breaking that cycle. One of the best ways to do this is through evidence-based home visiting programs. These are nonprofit programs in the community in which a family with newborns or young children can invite a nurse, social worker or other trained professional into the home to provide support and make referrals when needed. Home visiting has proven benefits: fewer pregnancy complications, reduced incidences of domestic violence, child maltreatment and interaction with the judicial system; better educational and health outcomes (both for the parent and child); and a greater likelihood that the parent(s) will become or remain employed. In other words stronger, more resilient, self-sufficient families. The programs have another beneficiary taxpayers. Helping these families avoid tragic situations and stay out of the Child Protective Services and foster care systems relieves pressure on the emergency services, judicial, health and education systems. In the current Texas legislative session, which ends May 27, the competing House and Senate versions of the proposed fiscal years 2020-21 budget both have very modest increases in state investments in home visiting not nearly enough to substantially increase the number of families served. We estimate 423,000 Texas families with multiple risk factors could benefit from home visiting Texas can currently serve only about 15,000 of these families with children. The actual need is much greater. On paper I may not look like I need home visiting, but following my sons birth, I did. All new mothers could use some help. With the $30.5 million legislative investment increase requested by TexProtects, we could help another 3,600 families. Home visiting programs have demonstrated returns ranging from $1.26 to $8.08 per dollar invested failure to reach those families means lives lost and tax savings missed. Please, urge lawmakers negotiating the final budget bill to substantially increase home visiting investments. Mothers Day shouldnt be a reminder of traumatic childhoods or maternal inadequacies. Help us cement Mothers Day as a celebration of strong families and abundant love for our children. Sophie Phillips is CEO of TexProtects Champions for Safe Children. For more information, visit www.texprotects.org. 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 While Minchuk said he's in favor of the community center, he asked if the town should wait to award the contracts until it has the bonds it is issuing in hand. He also asked if there could be access off Madison Street, or even a pathway, for kids to walk to the center from their homes. Longford has given so much to me but it is its people which are its greatest gift As a farmer and writer, Longford is my home. It is the place from which I draw the wellspring of my creativity. My books, my writing, my thoughts are of this place. I have known it all my life and it is the thing which enriches me. I lived for many years as an emigrant overseas but I carried with me a piece of Longford on all those journeys. It was in the memory of family and friends, the smell of the fields around our home in Soran, Ballinalee, or the thoughts of long summer nights of fishing by the Camlin or swimming by Loch Gowna. Read also: Longford author John Connell to launch The Cow Book in USA Longford has been my palette as a writer and documentary maker. From its townlands, I have listened and gathered the history of this place, all of which have been infused into my work. Its characters have seeped into my short stories, my fiction and my memoir. Without this country, I am nothing as an artist for it has given me everything from which to draw upon. We live in a secret county, for few outsiders know of the greatness and beauty of our home. From the literary streets of Ballymahon, which knew lion-hunter and revered poets, to the scientific and literary endeavours of the Edgeowrth family, to the rebellious history of our flying column of north Longford. It was this county which was the outpost of the Elizabethan conquest and this county which was the centrepiece of many bids for Irish freedom. All of these things infuse me, enrich me. I have walked the back roads of Ballinamuck in the thought of the men of 1798 and they are as sacred as the Greek ruins for they hold in them our own native history. My Longford Life: John Connell, author of The Cow Book As a farmer, I am honoured to live upon the Tain, the saga which is our foundation as a people. I see in our farming practices a taint of our older culture and how so many groups and individuals work in order to preserve that old way. To the back of my home sits Cairn Hill, a wonder of the midlands, and we are the people who live beneath it. It is a beautiful place and should be treasured. Water is the great thread of our county and dotted amongst its many beautiful lakes I have seen the clear wonder of nature and God. In the summer murmurations of starlings or the mighty stride of deer in the woods of south Longford. Longford has given so much to me as a writer but it is its people which are its greatest gift for in returning to make my home here, I have seen the power, poetry and wonder of the ordinary rural people that make this county what it is: my baile and beatha. Read also: Longford Literary Month to celebrate local writers Author John Connell is Longford's first Literary Ambassador. John has returned from a very successful book tour of Australia and his book is about to be published in the United States, entitled The Farmer's Son. Longford Literary Month will take place for the month of May. Eugene McGee was quite, simply one of a kind. A stern, even churlish looking figure at the best of times, here was a man who, as they say, didnt take fools gladly. Call him what you will, Eugene was his own man. Intellegent, sincere and exacting, Eugene was one of life's unique characters. Put simply, he was a man of many talents, a man of great integrity and one of life's true gentlemen. The untimely and sudden nature of his passing over the weekend has brought with it a deluge of tributes from across the sporting, journalistic and communal divide; a fitting epitaph to a figure who contributed so much to so many in his 77 years. Its rare, almost unheard of, that journalists get the opportunity to convey their deepest, innermost thoughts at such times of sadness. In that circumstance I make no apologies and no excuses as the one person I have to thank is Eugene McGee. He, like RTEs Ciaran Mullooly so eloquently stated from his own perspective on various media channels over the weekend, gave me my first start in journalism. Read also: Longford's Eugene McGee was a man of great integrity A start was how it was initially and in no uncertain terms put to me. Though very much matter-of-fact, at least you knew were you stood. There were no grey areas, what you saw was very much what you got with Eugene and I, as a naive, somewhat wet behind the ears aspiring journalist admired him for it. It was a similar tale of appreciation from two other former Leader staff members, Mairead OShea and Ciaran Mullooly. I came in in around 1999 or 2000ish, said Mairead, who later went on to serve in the Roscommon Herald before venturing into politics as a parliamentary assistant. It was Eugene and Joe (Flaherty) who interviewed me at the time. He placed a great emphasis on quality local journalism and always believed the local newspaper should be voice for the local community. Like many others before her and since, the Roscommon native was well aware of her boss more austere side, a quirk which was perhaps overlooked in favour of a more compassionate, empathetic virtue. He was gruff and to the point and would pull you up if you messed up. But you knew where you stood with him and he had a very caring side that many people mightnt have seen. He was very decent too and was always very proud of his roots. Retired Leader photographer Joe McDonagh was another who spent many years working under Eugenes wing in the newspapers previous home on the towns Market Square. We would have had a few differences over the years but Eugene was always fair and spoke his mind. You could never say he was a hypocrite or two faced. He was always up front and straight. A blunt, yet mildly comical exchange between the pair over a plant and Joes continued nurturing of it inside the newsroom was one which immediately sticks out. It was getting bigger by the week and he just came in one morning and went over to it, gave it a quick look up and down before turning to me and saying: Its getting more like a jungle in here every day. References to straight talking and decency is certainly one attribute RTEs long serving Midlands Correspondent Ciaran Mullooly can well attest to. At a crossroads in his own choice of career path, it was with Eugene and the Leader that the Lanesboro man first cut his journalistic teeth. At the time I went into the Leader with Eddie Coffey, Jim Gray and Podgy (Padraig O'Brien), said Ciaran. At the time I would have started out doing a bit of proofreading along with a bit of farming. Every Thursday after the paper was put out, I would do the account statements. What can I say? Eugene was very good to me. He was the man who gave me the opportunity to write. Read also: Eugene McGee left an indelible mark on Longford And write he did. It would prove to be the start of a blossoming working relationship which saw the Leader cement its position as the go to publication this side of the Shannon. Eugene was someone who would come across as a very gruff, shy, quiet man who had difficulty in even engaging with you, but who was someone that once you spent time with him he would almost become a mentor or tutor to you, said Ciaran. I would remember times where he would often pull you aside to steer you in the right direction if he thought you weren't doing something right or if he thought you needed a bit of advice. He was also the first person I could remember who took on what you would call a real community development role and was probably the first real campaigner for rural Ireland. He would have taken up issues such as the closure of garda stations and post offices and he would write front page commentaries on them which were almost unheard of. And if you happened to be his target then you had better watch out as his writing would often be scathing and there would often be a trail of blood along the headline. One such controversy surrounded the closure of the former County Hospital along Longford towns Battery Road in 1986. On January 31, a front page article simply dubbed Hospital closes-Thats final was banded across the Leaders front page. A lengthy analysis of the decision was penned by the man himself. Inside, an editorial describing the controversy as bizarre and brought about by certain politicians voting to further their own political advancement was something which still lives long in the memory. He campaigned over it when it closed and was bitter over the fact that people had to go Mullingar from then on, he said. Apart from giving a whole new generation of journalists a start, Eugene was a man who stood up for the small man, for rural Ireland and he was fearless in doing so. He didn't care who you were, what party you stood for or how powerful you were. Longford will miss that, rural Ireland will, we all will. A catchy soundbite it may be, its one which undoubtedly sums up not just the mark of the man but one of this countys greatest ever ambassadors. Thank you for the memories Eugene. Read also: The late Eugene McGee to be laid to rest this Thursday Eugene McGee wasn't a man who said an awful lot. I worked for him for eight years and for five of those years would have been his number two here at the Leader. He rarely spoke. There was never much small talk but as I and anybody else who ever worked for him will attest, that didnt matter. Because we would have gone through brick walls for him. That was the respect he commanded. He didnt need to speak much but in fairness, when he did, it was always succinct and oft times laced in that famed Colmcille sarcasm. His castle was at home with Marian, Conor and Linda. After those he was happiest I think amongst not the GAA community but his own people Colmcille people. I've lost count of the times I saw him shed quiet tears at the passing of another Colmcille stalwart and nobody was ever able to write a North Longford native's obituary like Eugene McGee. In the early years of his time with the Leader, he continued to dabble in farming and I think he wanted to stay true to his roots. But in truth he was a bad farmer and he happily came to that realisation in time. He will be best remembered as a GAA manager and GAA writer but his words encapsulated much more. He embodied the challenges and delights that came with living in rural Ireland. I remember articles from him after Dromard won the county final in 1999 and the half parishes to Mullinalaghta and Gowna won the intermediate and senior titles in Longford and Cavan respectively on the same day. Those articles were snapshots in time and oozed the love and respect that Eugene held for these communities. He took over the Leader after a long running strike in 1983. It was an exceptionally brave move for a young man with plenty of debt. He was supported by good friends and investors Padraig Gearty, Sean Murray and Michael Dolan. He was there for the halcyon days of the provincial media. I doubt he would have coped well in today's social media charged landscape, but back then, Eugene was an icon and the Leader was a flagship title. As the country flourished through the 1990s on what we now know to have been a false dawn, so too then the provincial press. Advertising and circulation revenue soared year on year. Eugene was always cautious but was never afraid of a punt or shirked the call to invest. The Cavan Leader was a case in point and he readily acceded to add to the newsroom if a compelling case was made. I joined the Leader in 1997 after the death of John Hughes. Famously after the funeral, Eugene invited all the journalists in attendance back to the Leader for a reception. The drink from the nearby Market Bar flowed and when Eugene stood up to deliver his eulogy for the late John Hughes, we knew we were truly in the presence of a great man, a great leader, but above all else a gentle soul. But he didnt suffer fools lightly. A social drinker at best, he invariably went every Monday evening for a couple with another Leader house veteran and Colmcille native, Seamus Doyle. The destination of choice these days was John Browne's. But back in the 1990s, it would have been Gerry Gregg's on Ballymahon Street. They would have gone in early, kept to themselves, and rarely stayed beyond a couple. Read also: Tribute: Eugene McGee left an indelible mark on Longford Back then there was a local politician, who will remain unnamed, but invariably tried to snare Eugene in conversation. Eugene rarely rose to the bait. Anyway one evening the politician left perplexed and Eugene turned to Gerry Gregg and said: You should put a sign in the window to say that fella drinks here. T'would pull the crowds in. He didn't suffer fools and nor was he renowned for his patience. I lost count of the times he'd walk away perplexed at the length of time it was taking photographer, Joe McDonagh, to develop a roll of film in the old dark room. And then there was the late Harry Farrell, who operated at a different pace to the rest of the newsroom. At times Eugene grew frustrated but invariably bit the lip because much like he had the pulse of North Longford, he knew that Harry held the beating heart of old Longford town in his hand. And that was evidenced in Harry's many golden pieces in the Leader over the years. We probably had more fun at Eugene's expense back in the day than he or we realised and that in itself was a measure of the man. A young reporter from Meath, John Donohoe was with us for several months at this stage and was looking after the entertaining page. He decided to make them a little racier and used the pen name 'Johnny Dee'. One Tuesday evening Eugene was examining the proof pages and exclaimed to all: Who is this Johnny Dee fellah? Are we paying him? There was silence for a few seconds before John Donohoe said; Yes but not enough. Eugene turned away with a wry smile. Or there was the time that Joe McDonagh was teaching Tai Chi and he decided to assemble all 18 staff members in the newsroom on the first floor of the old Leader building on Market Square. It was a busy Tuesday morning and not the best of days for Tai Chi. We were stretching away and almost oblivious when Eugene burst through the door as only he could. Other bosses would have flipped. He simply retreated and came back later. Over the years he assembled a motley crew of characters under the Leader banner. A favourite was the late Cormac McGill, a retired teacher from Donegal, who lived in Dromod and covered Leitrim GAA for us. He was an ardent Republican and when Eugene announced that the then UK ambassador was to visit the Leader offices, Cormac resolved to stage a protest. The visit went ahead, Cormac staged a silent protest and Eugene never batted an eyelid. Cormac was larger than life and would have been 'a fair beast of a man' as Eugene might have said. One day we could all hear him coming up the stairs, chiming out an auld Republican ode to a dead hunger striker, my body weak with hunger. We could see Eugene fighting back one of those famous wry grins of his, as the most unlikeliest embodiment of hunger striker came into the newsroom. We learned an awful lot from Eugene McGee. Most of it was unsaid. But in a nutshell, he taught us to value the simplicity of life; the fragility of life but most of all he taught is to value all things Longford. Read also: Longford's Eugene McGee was a man of great integrity Pictured above: In this picture by photographer Willie Farrell, Eugene McGee, then Sports Editor of the Longford News, celebrates an Offaly Leinster Final win in that paper's newsroom with reporters John Byrne (left) and John Donlon (right), overlooked by a photo of founder Vincent Gill. Reporter John Byrne is now in Rockaway, New Jersey; John Donlon, a native of Moydow, Co Longford was orginally a Junior reporter with the Longford Leader, then Deputy Editor of the Longford News and latterly with the Sunday World PIcture: Courtesy derek cobbe Asthma deaths have increased in recent times and according to a survey conducted by the Asthma Society of Ireland (ASI), two out of three Longford asthma sufferers have no Asthma Action plan in place. This, the ASI says, puts all 2,311 Longford residents with uncontrolled asthma at risk of suffering a potentially fatal asthma attack. The results of the survey were officially launched today, May 09, by Minister for Health Simon Harris as part of Asthma Awareness week. The research was conducted after recent figures for asthma deaths show they are on the rise. One person now dies every five days from asthma. The survey was conducted on 1,081 respondents in April/May 2019. The ASI have called on all 2,311 Longford people who suffer with uncontrolled asthma to reduce their risks of suffering a fatal attack by putting an Action Plan in place. Asthma Society CEO, Sarah OConnor, called the results truly frightening. It is truly frightening that asthma deaths are on the rise in Ireland a person now dies every five days in Ireland from asthma. Our Asthma Management survey, launched today, highlighted a huge lack of awareness of how to manage asthma. The survey results showed that, in the event of an asthma attack, most people wouldnt know the necessary steps to take to save a life. she said. Minister for Health, Simon Harris, said: I am strongly supporting the Asthma Societys campaign today, encouraging people to take control of their asthma. Asthma management is extremely important. It allows people with the condition to live a longer, healthier and happier life. I encourage everyone to put an Asthma Action Plan in place it is the one of the best asthma management tools available. People with asthma can work with their GP or asthma nurse or phone the Asthma and COPD Adviceline for help to create their personalised plan on 1800 44 54 64. The survey also found that: - Two out of three asthma sufferers didnt have an Asthma Action Plan - Two out of three people with asthma have not spoken to their healthcare professional in the last six months, - Only 63% of people suffered knew there was a 5 Step Rule for managing an asthma attack - 69% of people with asthma would not know the 5 Step Rule to manage an asthma attack - Half of people with asthma use their reliever inhaler more than the recommended twice a week - Three out of five people with asthma do not use their controller inhaler all year round - Nine out of ten people with asthma do not carry an Asthma Attack Card with them at all times - One in five people with asthma would not know the six most common symptoms of an asthma attack. As part of this campaign, the Asthma Society has produced two videos both provide tips about asthma management. One very emotive video features Ciara Kelly who lost her mother to an asthma attack in 2018 and the other video features Michael McDonagh who shares his story of how he got in control of his asthma, getting his life back on track. The inaugural Asthma Awareness Week runs from 4-10 May and is kindly supported by Boots Ireland and GSK. To support the Asthma Society, text BREATHE to 50300 TO DONATE 4. Also read: Entrepreneurship at its best - The many business ventures of Colehill man, Garret Flower Visitors soon will be able to reserve a campsite at Indiana Dunes National Parks Dunewood Campground. Previously, all 66 campsites were on a first-come, first-served, basis. Under the new system, 34 of the sites can be reserved up to six months in advance making it easier to plan a trip to the national park. The remaining 32 sites will still be on a first-come basis. The price for a campsite remains the same at $25 per night. The online reservation system, at www.recreation.gov, goes live at 9 a.m. Wednesday. The campground is open April through October. More information is at 219-395-1882 or at www.nps.gov/indu. Jason Momoa made his debut appearance on The Ellen DeGeneres Show a very memorable one, with the Aquaman star attempting to teach Ellen how to axe throw for charity. For Momoa, axe throwing is somewhat of a hobby, so he made sure to calmly hit the bullseye on his first try, a feat that Ellen was not able to do herself despite 3 attempts. After calling it quits, Ellen hands the stage to Momoa to compete in a charity based axe throwing game. Through a bit of hustle and precision, Momoa ends up raising a tidy $31K for Sustainable Coastlines Hawaii, a Hawaii-based environmental organization. Check it out up: Error On Page .... A Server error had occured on the page you requested for. Sorry for the inconvenience! Go to Home page For the past six years, Law has gone through enough attorneys to fill a totem pole, claimed to not speak English, had two competency evaluations and asked for a new trial, prosecutors said. Two months before shes set to be sentenced to what the defense described as essentially a life sentence, Law is trying again to get a new lawyer. Is the Federal Aviation Administration too close to the industry it regulates? In the wake of the Boeing 737 MAX 8 crashes in Indonesia and Ethiopia, The Wall Street Journal examines why the FAA is facing renewed scrutiny into its aircraft certification process. Joel Smithers established a medical practice in Martinsville from which he developed an illegal prescription drug trade that has him facing perhaps the rest of his life in federal prison. Smithers, 36, was found guilty Friday in U.S. District Court in Abingdon of 861 federal drugs charges, including that his prescriptions caused the death of a woman in West Virginia. The jury spent eight days hearing testimony and took seven hours of deliberation to find Smithers guilty of one count of maintaining a place for the purpose of illegally distributing controlled substances, one count of possession with the intent to distribute controlled substances, and 859 counts of illegally prescribing Schedule II controlled substances. The jury also found that the oxycodone and oxymorphone Smithers prescribed to a woman from West Virginia caused her death. This defendant not only violated his Hippocratic Oath to his patients, but he perpetuated, on a massive scale, the vicious cycle of addiction, despair, and destruction, U.S. Attorney Thomas T. Cullen said in a release announcing the verdict. We have no higher priority than investigating drug-dealing physicians and other corrupt health-care practitioners and putting them in federal prison. United States District Court Judge James P. Jones ordered Smithers taken into custody pending sentencing, which was scheduled for 10 a.m. on Aug. 16. Smithers faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 20 years and a maximum of life in federal prison. He also could face fines of more than $200 million. Assistant United States Attorneys Cagle Juhan, Randy Ramseyer and Zachary T. Lee showed the jury how Smithers, who had been living in Greensboro, N.C., in 2015 opened an osteopathic medicine office on Commonwealth Boulevard in Martinsville. He was listed on internet databases of physicians in the area as president and CEO of Smithers Community Healthcare. The telephone number for his office is no longer in service. He was charged formally in August 2017. Evidence presented at trial showed Smithers prescribed controlled substances to every patient in his practice, resulting in more than 500,000 Schedule II controlled substances being distributed. The drugs involved included oxymorphone, oxycodone, hydromorphone, and fentanyl, a release from the Department of Justice said. A majority of those receiving prescriptions from Smithers traveled hundreds of miles, one-way, to receive the drugs, court documents said. Smithers did not accept insurance and had taken in more than $700,000 in cash and credit card payments before a search warrant being executed at his office on March 7, 2017. At the time of that search warrant, statistics showed that, in the city of Martinsville, more opioid painkillers were being given out as prescriptions per person than anywhere else in the United States. That information came from a report released in 2017 by the Centers for Disease Contro called Vital Signs, which detailed the number of opioid painkillers given out by prescription in 59,000 pharmacies across America from 2010 to 2015. On the one hand, the report found the majority of local areas saw a decrease in the total number prescribed over those five years. The case was investigated by the Roanoke offices of the Drug Enforcement Administrations Tactical Diversion Squad and the Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General. Task force officers with the police departments of Bristol, Martinsville, Buena Vista, Roanoke, and Roanoke County; the Sheriffs Offices of Henry County and Pittsylvania County; and the Virginia State Police assisted in the investigation. To the editor: It was with some amusement and bewilderment that I read Mr. Eanes letter ("Unhappy Democrats," May 7), taking the Democrats to task for doing their Constitutionally authorized duty to hold the executive branch of the government accountable for its actions. Surely he doesnt agree with Rudy Giuliani, the presidents lawyer, that any Russian interference in our democracy is okay as long as it serves a purpose...to re-elect Donald Trump. In fact the smell drifting south from Washington is the Republicans who will do anything to get re-elected, even if it means allowing their president to obstruct justice. Special Counsel Robert Muellers report said as much, if you read it. Youll also find the report would have found the Trump team guilty of cooperating with the Russians, but they were too inept to pull it off. I remember when Republicans used to put country ahead of party (Nixon). Now its up to the Democrats and the American voting public to put Trump in the dustbin of history. MIKE EVANS Martinsville On the 1 May demonstration in Warsaw, the presence of the Czerwony Front (Red Front) was marked by our banner, slogans and red flags. On that same day, we also released our first booklet, Marxism and Anarchism by Alan Woods. The reception was enthusiastic, as proven by the sale of our whole stock during the first hour of the demonstration. This confirms that, in Poland as in the rest of the world, there is a thirst for the only ideas that are able to guide the working class to victory: the ideas of Marxism. Read in Polish | The day ended with an open discussion on the centenary of the founding of the Communist International, attended by members of the Red Front and other left-wing organisations. Comrade Jakub opened the discussion, explaining the merits of the first four congresses of the Third International and the historical lessons that can be learned from its bureaucratic Stalinist degeneration. After the introduction, a discussion took place on the lessons that can be drawn from the history of our movement, from Marx and Engelss First International to the Fourth International, led by Leon Trotsky. The betrayal and errors of the social democratic and Stalinist leaderships leave us with the task of rebuilding the revolutionary tradition of Marxism. On 2 May 2019, the National Congress of the Red Front was officially launched in Warsaw. It was attended by about 20 Marxists from Warsaw, Poznan, Gdansk, Cracow and other cities. Discussion about the Communist International, whose founding took place 100 years ago / Image: Czerwony Front The congress discussion was kicked off by a representative of the International Marxist Tendency (IMT), Francesco Merli, who presented a report on the world situation, and prospects and tasks for the world revolution. The situation in Venezuela, the yellow vests movement in France, the political crisis in the United Kingdom, the trade war between the US and China and many more points were discussed. There is no country in the world that is not seriously affected by the deep, organic crisis of capitalism. The following session was led off by comrade Filip, who explained the situation in Poland. Despite the economic growth following the restoration of capitalism, class struggle is now back on the agenda. The recent, important movements around women's rights, the youth climate strike and the teachers strike have transformed the consciousness of millions of workers and young people. In particular, the defeat of the teachers strike stressed the need to build a revolutionary leadership, able to overcome the PiS governments anti-working class attacks and the great monopolies and capitalists they represent politically. Comrade Marta introduced the session on organisation, in which the Marxist method of organisation was debated, demonstrated to date most correctly by the Bolshevik Party of Lenin and Trotsky. Without revolutionary theory, there cannot be a revolutionary organisation. Following the example of the genius, heroism and dedication of past revolutionaries, we can create an organisation that will fulfil its historical task of winning power for the workers. Part of the library of the Red Front was available at the congress / Image: Czerwony Front The comrades from the IMT then described the work that the tendency currently carries out in every continent. From Canada to Venezuela, from Nigeria to Italy, from Great Britain to Indonesia, the IMTs fast growth over the last period confirms the correctness of the true, undistorted methods of Marxism and proletarian organisation. Particularly inspiring is the activity of the comrades in Pakistan, who in the last period were particularly targeted by state repression, risking their lives for the proletarian revolution. Then, comrades Tomasz, Piotr and Filip led discussions on organisational questions. In the last year, we experienced a great professionalisation of our organisation, which was expressed by the success of our first booklet and the growth of our branch in Poznan. In the near future, the opening of the online store, the production of more printed materials, as well as regular publications, will help us win and train a generation of future revolutionaries. The session was completed by discussing further organisational plans in different regions. Before the comrades parted to return to their cities, the enthusiasm of the congress was emphasised by the loud singing of the most famous revolutionary song: The Internationale. The best congress of our organisation so far reflects a year of great steps forward the next year will be a milestone for us. We are guided by the desire to overthrow the capitalist system, which has exhausted its historical role and does not offer anything but misery and despair. In order to change the world, however, we must first understand it, and this can be achieved only by adopting the revolutionary method of scientific socialism, i.e. Marxism. Join us today to fight for the revolution! Following the outcome of his criminal case, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement will seek to remove from the county a man who is accused of stabbing his wife to death, officials said. Ilton Rodrigues, a 48-year-old citizen of Brazil, is accused of killing his wife at the couples apartment in Stoughton on Friday night. When police got to the residence at Bennett Drive, officers found 43-year-old Telma Bras dead in the living room of apparent stab wounds. Rodrigues was nearby with injuries consistent with a suicide attempt, authorities said. A knife was protruding from Rodriguess body, prosecutors said. The couples two children, a 17-year-old girl and a 7-year-old boy, were home at the time, police said. The teenager called 911 after hearing commotion in the home. Rodrigues was taken to a Boston hospital with a life-threatening injury, officials said. Following Rodrigues hospital arraignment on Monday, where a not-guilty plea was entered on his behalf for a charge of murder, ICE has placed an immigration detainer with the jail housing Rodrigues. ICEs Enforcement and Removal Operations lodged an immigration detainer with the Norfolk County House of Corrections on Ilton Furtado Rodrigues, a citizen of Brazil charged with murder. ICE will seek his removal pending the outcome of the criminal charges he faces," ICE spokesman John Mohan wrote in an email. Rodrigues is slated to appear in Stoughton District Court on June 10. Stoughton Police Chief Donna McNamara said on Saturday that her department has no history of calls from the couples apartment and Rodrigues does not have a criminal record. General Electric Co. finalized an agreement to sell its future Boston-based headquarters for $252 million, a company spokesperson confirmed on Thursday Alexandria Real Estate Equities and National Development signed an agreement to purchase the 2.7-acre Fort Point Channel campus from General Electric and MassDevelopment, three years after the state brought GE to the Necco Street site. General Electric will remain a tenant. We are looking forward to moving into our permanent headquarters space in the newly refurbished Necco brick buildings later this year," said Ann R. Klee, vice president of development and operations in Boston for General Electric. "We appreciate the support weve received from our partners, the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and the City of Boston. We are fully committed to Boston and proud to call it home. Alexandria Real Estate Equities, a California-based life-sciences company, has 4.5 million square feet of space in Cambridge. The company has purchased property in South Boston surrounding the General Electric headquarters in the past year, according to Boston Business Journal, who first reported the sale. National Development, based in Newton, specializes in mixed-use development such as the Ink Block development in the South End. Earlier this year, Alexandria and National Development purchased a multi-story parking garage next to GEs future campus for $81.1 million, BBJ reported. Neither Alexandria nor National Development officials returned calls from MassLive seeking comment. Massachusetts officials courted General Electric and provided funds upfront to bring their headquarters from Fairfield Connecticut, to Boston in 2016. General Electric bought a vacant 297,000-square-foot parcel and planned to develop a 12-story office on the campus, combining the two brick warehouses owned by the state. That never happened. In February, MassDevelopment and General Electric agreed to sell the Fort Point property. Under the new agreement, General Electric signed a 12-year lease for the refurbished Necco warehouses, about 95,000 square feet. The space includes a bistro and will house General Electrics senior executive team and about 250 employees, a company spokesman said. Alexandria and National Developments agreement to purchase the vacant parcel comes with the permits to construct a 12-story building. The agreement gives $86.9 million to MassDevelopment, state officials told MassLive. Thats roughly how much the quasi-public state agency provided upfront to bring the General Electric headquarters from Fairfield, Connecticut, to Boston in 2016, state officials tell MassLive. MassDevelopment will get an additional $11.2 million in the sale. The combined $98.1 million will be directed toward capital projects. Massachusetts innovation economy continues to create high-quality jobs for the people of the Commonwealth," said Lizzy Guyton, spokeswoman for the governors office, "and the Baker-Polito Administration is thrilled to have GEs World Headquarters here in Boston. A 34-year-old man was airlifted to the hospital with life-threatening injuries after authorities said he crashed his Camaro head-on into a tree in Dennis Wednesday night. The Dennis Fire Department said crews responded to 59 Main St. around 7:14 p.m. where they found a red Camaro that had crashed into a tree. The driver was pinned in the car and firefighters had to use numerous tools, including the Jaws of Life, to extricate the victim. Paramedics began treating the man with advanced life support while he was still in the car while other firefighters cut the vehicle apart, the department said. The victim was flown to Tufts Medical Center in Boston by a Medflight helicopter with injuries that are believed to be life-threatening, according to authorities. The crash remains under investigation by Dennis police. The key to the New England cottontail populations recovery could be in the shrubbery of the uninhabited Nomans Land Island, the former U.S. Navys bombing range. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service released 13 wild cottontails on Tuesday onto the shore of Nomans Land Island National Wildlife Refuge, located about 3 miles off the southwest corner of Marthas Vineyard. Wildlife Service officials say they hope the population, which declined in recent decades, will flourish in the coastal shrublands. A New England cottontail colony on Nomans Land Island will be like insurance for our only native rabbit, said Eileen McGourty, the agencys lead biologist on the project. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is pleased to continue efforts under the cottontail conservation initiative and is grateful for the partnership that has made this project possible. The New England cottontail gets mixed up with the eastern cottontail, which is a common rabbit seen in yards. The native cottontails, however, are rare and seek protection in dense shrubs and forest areas. Their population has declined as older, taller woods were cleared for development. John Garofoli, left, and Eileen McGourty, right, carry a wooden hare box with New England cottontails onto a boat headed to Nomans Land Island.U.S. Wildlife and Fire Service The service and other researchers have spent more than a decade trying to conserve and restore the New England Cottontail population, conducting controlled burns and releasing the rabbits in uninhabited areas. In 2012, the service released the rabbits on Patience Island in Rhode Islands Narragansett Bay and saw the population grow. Without the right type of habitat, there are no rabbits," said David Scarpitti, MassWildlife upland game biologist. "Actively managing land through conducting prescribed fires, clearing or thinning trees address the rabbits fundamental habitat needs. The New England Cottontail population was considered endangered or threatened until 2015 due to ongoing efforts to preserve the species. The Nomans Land Island project is part of that initiative that started more than a decade ago. At a glance, Nomans Land Island may seem like an unorthodox choice. The island is closed to the public because of the fear of undetonated ordnance, explosive weapons that didnt detonate when they were tested. Meagan Racey, the agency spokeswoman, said most of the undetonated ordnance are believed to be dummies and the agency performed environmental analyses to ensure the rabbits could safely live and thrive on the island. Habitat evaluation studies suggest that Nomans Land Islands shrublands, which are self-sustaining, can support more than 600 cottontails, according to the service. MassWildlife biologists and technicians trapped 13 wild rabbits on the mainland over the winter. The University of Rhode Island conducted genetic testing to exclude the more common eastern rabbit species. The Bristol County Agricultural High School in Dighton and the Roger Williams Park Zoo also helped care for the rabbits before their release. On Monday, the rabbits were outfitted with tracking collars. The next day, the five female and weight male rabbits were placed in wooden hare boxes and released on shore, according to the Cape Cod Times. (The ex-relative) went to his house and got a gun and knowing there would be a confrontation. It doesnt matter what happened at the house. He never should have been there, he said, wondering why, if the former relative knew there would be a confrontation, he went to Jamie Vincents house in the first place. SPRINGFIELD The $960 million MGM Springfield casino project is the first gaming resort to receive the U.S. Green Building Councils Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Platinum certificate for new construction the highest level of certification offered. MGM Resorts International is immensely proud to receive the LEED Platinum rating, chairman and CEO Jim Murren said in a prepared release. The planned installation of a new solar array to supply renewable electricity to the casino was a key factor in winning the rating, MGM said. When it begins operating, the 1.13 megawatt solar canopy on the roof the MGM parking garage is expected to generate more than 1,600 megawatt hours of electricity, MGM said. MGM Springfield hopes to begin installation of the solar project at the end of May, a spokesman said. The project is being done in partnership with GE Solar, a subsidiary of General Electric in Massachusetts. MGM Resorts, in working with local and state officials, was committed to designing and building a property that exemplifies the Companys values in support of environmental sustainability and positive social impact while honoring local history and architecture, the company said. It is expected to help reduce the propertys annual carbon footprint by about 410 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent, the company said. The Springfield casino opened in August 2018. Other elements that helped MGM Springfield win the rating include 50 electric vehicle charging stations, a system that harvests rain to use for the casinos landscaping, and the diversion of 95% of construction and demolition waste from landfills. Cathy Judd-Stein, chairwoman of the Massachusetts Gaming Commission, said in a prepared statement that commission members "extend our congratulations to MGM on this significant achievement. The Legislature established strong energy goals in the Expanded Gaming Act for gaming establishments, Judd-Stein said. We are thankful to the City of Springfield and our fellow agencies for working closely with MGM Springfield to not only meet but greatly exceed our shared goal of achieving a world-class, sustainable facility. MGM Resorts has nine other properties that have achieved LEED Gold certification, including National Harbor, Aria and T-Mobile Arena. MGM Cotai in Macau earned a prestigious Three-Star certification under the China Green Building Design Label by the China Green Building and Energy Saving (Macau) Association. All aspects of the MGM Springfield project in various buildings have already achieved or are seeking a minimum of LEED Gold certification. More than a new brew, Wachusett Brewing Company officially introduced a new brand on Thursday. After about a year of experimenting, Wachusett is set to unveil Fifty Trees Hard Cider, what it refers to as the ideal drinking hard cider. Fifty Trees Hard Cider was crafted with apples from farms in North Central Massachusetts and blended with European Bittersweets, Wachusett said. The cider is semi-dry. The brewery describes it as featuring a flavorful apple taste with a crisp, clean finish. Wachusett is adding it to its lineup Friday. No exact time table was given as to when it would be available for retail. The brewing company did say Fifty Trees Hard Cider would be released in stores and bars in the very near future. SPRINGFIELD A vacant lot in Pine Point, which was once proposed for townhouses and triggered some public opposition, is now being proposed as a site for a marijuana retail store. Bay State Canna Holdings LLC, of East Longmeadow, is proposing the marijuana business at 461 Boston Road, which was once the site of Russells Restaurant. The building was demolished several years ago and has been vacant since that time. The lot is at the corner of Lamont Street. The company is slated to provide details and answer questions about the marijuana business at a community outreach meeting scheduled Friday at 5:30 p.m. at the John Boyle OReilly Club, 33 Progress Ave. John Lysak, president of the Pine Point Community Council, said there was a council meeting in April regarding the proposal in which the company said it would construct a new building fronting Boston Road. There would be a buffer area provided to separate the store from houses, he said. In March of 2018, the property owner, Nicholas Graham of Houston, Texas, withdrew plans for a 14-unit townhouse project at the site. The withdrawal occurred after some residents in the neighborhood said they were concerned the apartments would not be suitable in that area near single-family homes. Bay State Canna Holdings LLC lists Sabino Joseph Caracciolo of Springfield as resident agent and co-manager. The other manager is listed as Harold Wayne Moon Jr. The corporate address is listed in East Longmeadow. Several other businesses are presenting concepts for marijuana shops this week for consideration by a city review committee. The committee is expected to recommend four proposals for a first round of approvals by the City Council. A city ordinance allows an eventual total of 15 marijuana retailers in Springfield. SPRINGFIELD -- Two men who are suspects in separate shootings in Springfield have been added to the Massachusetts State Police Most Wanted Fugitives list. Both men are actively being sought by Springfield Police and the State Police Violent Fugitive Apprehension Section, said David Procopio, state police spokesman. Daniel L. Rodriguez, 18, is accused of shooting a man in the neck. The victim survived but is paralyzed from his chest down. The shooting occurred on July 28 on Dwight Street and police identified him as a suspect after an intensive investigation and received an arrest warrant for him in January, he said. Rodriguez, who is a member of the Worthy Boys Posse, is also known as Bebo, X and Dex. He is Hispanic, has light skin, brown hair, brown eyes and is about 5 feet, 11 inches tall and weighs about 150 pounds. He has a tattoo of "Kailiane" on his left forearm, Procopio said. He is wanted on charges of armed assault with intent to murder, aggravated assault and battery with a dangerous weapon, intimidation of a witness, and unlawful carrying of a loaded firearm, he said. Aleczander Liriano, 21, is accused of shooting a woman on March 5 at the intersection of Dickinson Street and Lansing Place during a street robbery. The woman suffered serious injuries after being shot in the torso but survived, Procopio said. Police have a warrant for his arrest that charges him with assault and battery with a firearm, armed robbery, and discharging a firearm within 500 feet of a building. He is also wanted on a second warrant charging him with breaking and entering, he said. Liriano, who is also known by Alec, Krazy and Crazy, has ties throughout Western Massachusetts. He is Hispanic, with brown hair and hazel eyes and is about 6 feet, 2 inches tall and weighs about 180 pounds. He has two tattoos of note, Amparo is on his left forearm and Moe is on his left wrist. He also has a small scar on one of his hands, Procopio said. Both men should be considered armed and dangerous and should not be approached, he said. Anyone who sees either man should call 911 immediately. Anyone with information about eithers whereabouts should call 911 or the State Police Violent Fugitive Apprehension Section at 800-527-8873. SPRINGFIELD -- A review committee continued to wade through the proposals for recreational marijuana businesses Wednesday night, hearing from three companies interested in locating in the South End, in downtown and in Indian Orchard. Wednesday was the second of three nights of presentations scheduled for the more than two dozen businesses which have shown interest in opening a recreational marijuana facility in the city. While eight businesses were scheduled, just three gave presentations. Owners of two others called and said they could not make the meeting and three, including companies called Rooster Cogburn and Greenery, did not show. The companies which did give presentations have also held community meetings, which is required by the city application process. All three also already hold state licenses for a medical or recreational marijuana businesses. The city will be taking applications until May 20 for companies which want to open a recreational marijuana business and so far 47 people or businesses have requested information needed for an application although not all are expected to submit completed proposals. The city is expected to select about four in the first round in mid-June. The city can grant licenses for up to 15 recreational retail stores and an unlimited number of cultivation or distribution facilities. The presentations are part of the application process and a total of 24 were scheduled to give presentations to the review committee, which consists of various department representatives and City Councilor Tracye Whitfield. In the presentations each company has 15 minutes and no questions from the public or the committee were allowed. The last day of hearings is scheduled for 6 p.m. at the Rebecca Johnson School, 55 Catherine St. Debilitating Medical Condition Treatment Centers Inc. has proposed businesses at 1600 Main St., the current location of the Biergarten, and 700 Berkshire Ave. but the company is not planning to apply for licenses for both, said John Hammer, who served as the group's spokesman. "We are deliberating on which application we will move forward with," he said. All three companies reviewed safety and security procedures, traffic plans, zoning requirements and parking. DMC, which it is using informally, will have plenty of parking at both locations, Hammer said. "I think what sets up apart is it is a Springfield business, it is Springfield based," he said. The president is Heriberto Flores, a local businessman, and other owners and board members live in Springfield, and are are minorities, women and veterans. The company also holds a medical marijuana license to open a facility in Agawam. "Essentially what I am saying is we are local, we care about Springfield and we are excited to be here," he said. New England Cannabis Corp., which wants to open a store at 143 Main St. in the Indian Orchard section of the city, will grow all the products it sells. It already has a licensed facility in Holliston, said Ronald Lipof, the business advisor. Along with having the city host agreement, the company also wants to give back to the community and is planning to adopt the Springfield Rescue Mission, located nearby, as one of its beneficiaries. The layout of the store will set it apart from others and reduce some problems with people lining up outside the facility, he said. "We design our facilities with large waiting rooms so customers are not waiting outside," he said. The business is an existing one so renovations will be internal and will not disrupt the neighborhood. There is a lot with 20 designated parking spaces and the company will pay for employees to use a ride sharing service or public transportation so they will not be using one of the parking spaces, he said. I.N.S.A. Inc., which operates a medical and recreational marijuana business and grow facility in Easthampton, is proposing to open one at 1200 West Columbus Ave. If they receive a license, it will replace Luxe Burger, as the sole building tenant. The company has met with the South End Citizens Council and other residents to discuss its proposal in January. There is plenty of parking and, because of its easy access to Interstate-91, traffic issues are not expected. LONGMEADOW Police warn of bogus $100 bills being passed at local businesses. A black female suspect paid for merchandise with the counterfeit bills on March 27 and May 4, according to a post on the departments Facebook page. She is described as being approximately 25 to 35 in age and has been driving a black, four-door 2013 or 2014 Honda Accord with New York plates. Police urge residents and business people to be cautious when accepting large bills. Those with information are asked to call police at 413-567-3311. Massachusetts campaign finance regulators have reduced the amount of money unions can contribute to political candidates, ending the controversial union loophole. As of May 31, a union or nonprofit will no longer be able to donate up to $15,000 to a single candidate, party or PAC. Instead, unions will only be allowed to donate up to $1,000 per candidate, $5,000 to a party and $500 to a PAC the same limits that apply to individual donors. For years, the Office of Campaign and Political Finance allowed the higher limits for unions based on an interpretive bulletin. But after business owners tied to the conservative Massachusetts Fiscal Alliance sued over the regulation, the Supreme Judicial Court urged the state to reconsider that limit through the traditional rulemaking process. After accepting testimony from a range of organizations, the Office of Campaign and Political Finance released the final regulation Thursday. The old rules also required any organization that donated more than $15,000 or 10% of its general fund to political candidates to make certain disclosures. The new rule keeps that threshold, but requires an organization that donates more to register as a political action committee, and follow all the applicable campaign finance laws. Organizations can make independent expenditures of more than $15,000 meaning they do not directly coordinate with a candidates campaign without being required to register as a PAC. The businesses owned by members of the Massachusetts Fiscal Alliance have petitioned the U.S. Supreme Court in a lawsuit challenging a law that bars businesses from making political contributions while unions are allowed to donate. Paul Craney, a spokesman for Massachusetts Fiscal Alliance, said he was pleased to see the union limit lowered, but still wants to see equal treatment between unions and businesses. For the first time in a generation, union bosses will not have the loudest voice over everyone else. However, they still benefit by having the only voice when compared to employers, Craney said in a statement. This story was updated with a comment from Massachusetts Fiscal Alliance. SPRINGFIELD Midway into a career, Dr. Sudhir Reddy noted, physicians often find themselves perfecting skills as opposed to using them in new ways. Earlier this month, the 42-year-old Reddy got to combine his skills as a cardiologist and electrophysiologist to thread, through a catheter placed in a leg vein, a bullet-sized, wireless pacemaker into the hearts of two patients at Mercy Medical Center that is part of Trinity Health Of New England. The 45-minute procedure done to sense and correct a slow heart rhythm that can cause serious consequences for some people as this impacts the pacing of the heartbeat in pumping blood marked the first time Reddy inserted a leadless pacemaker into a patient and it also represented the first time the procedure was done at a hospital in Western Massachusetts. It is estimated that some 200,000 patients are implanted every year with traditional pacemakers that consist of wires attached to a small generator inserted in the chest that sends electric impulses into the heart as needed to normalize its rhythm. Leadless pacemakers are as yet an option for less than an estimated 10 percent of patients who need pacemakers to keep their heart beating regularly due to conditions that disrupt its rhythm. Three years ago, the Food and Drug Administration approved Medtronics Micra Transcatheter Pacing System, the only currently wireless pacemaker approved for use in the country, and two years ago the U.S. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services agreed to cover leadless cardiac pacemakers. Reddy trained on the system before getting approval from Trinity to perform the procedure that benefits the small proportion of patients needing a pacemaker in only the lower right ventricle chamber of their heart to address pacing but as a tiny device that acts as full pacemaker is increasingly being seen as a potentially promising step toward broader functioning devices that are self-contained. It went textbook perfect, said Reddy whose practice, Pioneer Valley Cardiology Associates, contracts with Trinity to provide cardiology services at Mercy. It always feels good to learn another skill to help someones quality of life. Reddy said both his patients, one in their 80s and the other in their 90s, were kept overnight partly because it was the first time the procedure was done there. He added that the wireless, self-contained aspect of the device means a lower risk of infection compared with traditional pacemakers especially for the elderly. The limitation of the device that contains a lithium battery expected to function for at least 10 years similar to that of a traditional pacemaker and small computer is that it can only address an irregular heartbeat in the lower right ventricle chamber as being self contained it has no leads as traditional pacemakers with their similarly placed electrodes do into the top atrial chamber. The leadless pacemaker is the first step in smaller devices that have less complications, Reddy said. It is for a relatively small population a first step to avoid putting extra hardware into the body. Reddy who did his fellowships in cardiology and electrophysiology at Yale New Haven Hospital in Connecticut, after completing his residency at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, called the leadless pacemaker a harbinger of the future. It will become more common, said Reddy who was in San Francisco this week for a meeting of the Heart Rhythm Society during which the future possibilities of leadless pacemakers were being discussed. It is the wave of future to do smaller devices. There are less complications. It is a more tolerable way. The leadless pacemaker can be a good solution for older patients whose lower heart chambers need stimulation to efficiently and adequately pump blood from the heart to the rest of the body at a normal rate. The upper chambers of their heart may be squeezing blood too quickly into the lower chambers, an issue that would be addressed by medication or therapy other than a pacemaker since pacemakers of any type usually do not address fast heart rates. Pacemakers implanted to help regulate heart function date back decades with retired Springfield surgeon Jacob Shammash, the subject of the recent memoir From Baghdad to Boston and Beyond, among the area pioneers of the procedure now done by cardiologists. Traditionally, the procedure that addresses issues around a slow heart rhythm involves threading a wire lead with an electrode at its tip into the hearts lower right ventricle via a vein just below the collarbone where a small generator connected to the wire is also inserted into a surgical pocket below the skin. The electrode is placed in the middle layer of muscle that forms the hearts inner and outer wall from where it can emit stimulating impulses as needed, and an insulated wire may also be threaded into the atrial chamber above. This set-up - needed by patients requiring monitoring of their rhythm in two chambers of their heart - enables the battery-powered generator to detect an irregular rhythm and send electric impulses to heart muscle to restore normal rhythm or to stimulate pumping ability in either half of the heart that consists of four chambers. Cells in the hearts upper two chambers generate the electric signals that control the heart beat produced by the lower two chambers pushing blood into the body for circulation. NORTHAMPTON Fairer, more inclusive voting was the theme of a recent public forum on municipal election issues, held by the citys Charter Review Committee. At the end of this year, the committee may make recommendations for updates to Northamptons charter, which spells out how the Northamptons municipal government operates. If recommended and endorsed by the local government, most of the proposed changes would still have to be approved by the state legislature before they could be implemented in Northampton. During the forum, the committee and members of the public heard three presentations relating to no-excuse absentee voting, ranked-choice (instant runoff) voting and lowering the municipal voting age. City clerk Pamela Powers gave the first presentation, advocating for no-excuse absentee ballots, which are already used in states like Oregon and which Powers said could help boost the number of voters participating in city-wide elections. It would eliminate the need for voters to provide a reason for requesting an absentee ballot, as is currently required. The outcome will affect every single resident in Northampton, Powers said. Since 2009, turnout for municipal elections has not been higher than 54% and on average is less than 38%. In Oregon, ballots are mailed to each registered voter well before election day and makes voting more accessible to residents who work long hours, are elderly or who otherwise may have difficulty making it to the polls. It would also help increase privacy, since voters could fill out ballots in the comfort of their own home, she said. On Beacon Hill, there has already been proposed legislation House Bill 78 to pave the way for no-excuse absentee voting, Powers said. I suggest Northampton take this step without waiting for the state to act (on the bill), Powers added. Members of the organization Voter Choice Massachusetts made a case for ranked-choice voting, also known as instant runoff, which allows voters to rank candidates by preference on their ballots and provides for a succession of tallies until one candidate wins an outright majority. Ranked-choice voting is used for federal and state elections in Maine, and for municipal elections in several U.S. communities, including Cambridge. The goal is to increase the range of choices and produce fair outcomes for all, said Howard Fain, deputy director of policy and research for the organization. It would also reduce vote-splitting, which can happen when candidates with similar views run for the same position and none receive a majority (over 50%). For instance, if ranked-choice voting had been in place during the 2000 presidential election, when none of the candidates George W. Bush, Al Gore or Ralph Nader received more than 50% of the vote, Gore likely would have won the election, assuming voters in support of Nader would have ranked Gore as their second choice. In that case, since Nader received the lowest percentage of votes, he would have been eliminated and Gore would have received more higher-ranking votes than Bush, giving Gore over 50% of the vote, Fain explained. This would also encourage more potential candidates to run for office since they wouldnt have to worry about being more electable than current officeholders, and would reduce negative campaign tactics like personal attacks since candidates would be conscious about trying to be voters second choice, too. It also lessens ballot errors since voters rank each candidate with a number rather than bubbling in one top-choice candidate, where voters can mistakenly fill in the wrong bubble, Fain said. Additionally, it would eliminate the need for preliminary elections, saving the city money in the process. Another presentation came from four Northampton High School students and members of the Mayors Youth Commission, including co-chairs Margot Schocket-Greene and Tucker Quinlan and members Noah Kassis and Willa Sippel, who spoke in support of lowering the citys municipal voting age from 18 to 16. A study out of Austria which in 2007 lowered the voting age to 16 country-wide has shown that younger voters were no less informed than their older counterparts, commission members cited. In cities like Northampton, high school students are already taking an active role in politics, organizing events like the citys March for Our Lives last year in support of gun control following recent deadly school shootings. Many 16-year-olds also have jobs, contribute to the local economy and pay taxes and the public school system represent the largest chunk of the citys municipal budget annually, they pointed out. When asked by a charter review committee member how many of their colleagues would vote if given the chance, Schocket-Greene pointed to bake sales held by the school, where voter pre-registration forms are also available and often draw more interest than the brownies. People are excited to vote... and eager for the opportunity to have their voices heard, she said. Last year, the City Council unanimously supported a resolution to lower the municipal voting age, which has not yet been approved by the state legislature. Following the presentations, a handful of citizens spoke in support of the presentations and their initiatives, citing the well-educated youth in the city and fairer elections through rank choice voting and no-excuse voting. Our work continues we have eight more months (to make recommendations), said charter review committee chair Stan Moulton in closing. Were reviewing all issues, not just elections. And we welcome public comment at our meetings. SPRINGFIELD Residents and businesses in the South End have expanded their fight against a proposed methadone clinic, with plans for a petition drive, letters of opposition and a meeting sought with state officials. Leo Florian, president of the South End Citizens Council, and Antonio Calabrese, acting president of the South End Business Association, confirmed the stepped-up plans on Wednesday. "We will just take it one step at a time and see what happens," Florian said. "We're tired of these neighborhoods being picked on for any type of project or operation that other areas might not want." Habit Opco Inc. is seeking approval from the state Department of Public Health to move its methadone clinic from 2257 Main St., in the North End, to a shopping plaza in the South End at Mill Street and East Columbus Avenue. South End representatives learned of the plans recently and met Monday to voice their objections and concerns. Habit Opco is seeking to open the South End clinic on July 15, said Ann Scales, a spokeswoman for the state Department of Public Health. State regulations require that all substance abuse treatment facilities be licensed by the state, and departments decision is pending, Scales said. Both Florian and Calabrese said the South End has seen many challenges over the years but is making positive strides. "We feel the South End has just become the dumping ground," Calabrese said. "We're trying to put out fires, and they keep adding fuel to the fire." The citizens council and the business association will submit letters of opposition to the methadone clinic that will be shared with the state, Florian and Calabrese said. Initial letters were sent to Mayor Domenic J. Sarno. Sarno has also voiced opposition to the clinic moving to the South End. Springfield has done more than its fair share and this area has been oversaturated with these types of programs, he said in a statement last week. South End representatives and city officials said they are not opposed to methadone clinics, but do oppose the location and the lack of advance communications from the company. The city was never consulted in advance about the relocation plans, and is not involved in the state permit process, city officials said. Habit Opco Inc. said in writing that it did tell the city the facility would be a methadone clinic. We look forward to continuing to be a good neighbor in this new location and to provide quality medical care to those affected by the opioid epidemic, the organization said in a statement earlier this week. Residents at Mondays neighborhood meeting called Habit Opco sneaky, disrespectful and deceitful. Residents raised concerns that the methadone clinic would not fit in with the small and busy shopping center area, which has no on-street parking, could result in people congregating outside the clinic, and will bring traffic in the early morning hours at the same time people are being dropped off at the neighboring Sunshine Village, which runs programs for the disabled. State Sen. James Welch and state Rep. Carlos Gonzalez, who represent the South End area, have been supportive of the neighborhood on the clinic issue, Florian said. "Both local legislators are on board and it seems the city is on board," Florian said. "We are putting together a petition for residents and businesses to sign. We will see if we can arrange a meeting with the state Department of Public Health and see if they can answer some questions and hear what they have to say." Calabrese said the South End has had its ups and downs. There are businesses that have made the South End home for decades or longer. Recently there have been major business investments in the South End including the MGM Springfield casino and a major expansion by Balise Auto Group that includes plans for a $6 million Mazda dealership. Its not the right fit for the neighborhood, Calabrese said of the methadone clinic. Italian archaeologists have discovered a richly decorated hall in the ancient Roman Emperor Nero's Domus Aurea (Golden House), which once stretched across several hills of Rome, cultural heritage officials announced here Wednesday. The chance discovery, which was announced today but was made in late 2018, occurred thanks to a scaffolding that had been built to restore one of the Domus Aurea's 150 halls. When restorers climbed to the top of the scaffolding, they lit upon an opening that led to another space whose existence had been unknown, said officials from the Colosseum Archaeological Park, which manages the Colosseum and the Imperial Forums that surround it. "The discovery of this hall falls within the strategy of scientific investigation, which (we) pursue every day along with that of preservation and restoration," Colosseum Archaeological Park Director Alfonsina Russo said in a statement. "The Hall of the Sphinx, as we have named it, after remaining in darkness for almost 20 centuries, transmits to us the atmosphere of the years of Nero's reign," she said. The hall's white walls are divided into pictorial sectors, framed by lines painted in red and yellow ochre, with golden bands punctuated by a series of plant-like elements. Inside each sector, a series of delicate and dynamic figures are elegantly painted in dense red pigment: a goddess rising from a plant, armed with a sword and a shield; a rampant panther; centaurs (mythological creatures with the upper body of a man and the lower body of a horse); and figures of Pan, the ancient god of shepherds and flocks. Images of frolicking sea creatures intertwined with vegetable motifs, birds, and garlands in green, yellow and red follow each other all around the perimeter of the composition. At one end of the hall is a painting of an imaginary structure, with columns surmounted by a gold ceremonial platter and a garland hanging from it. Next to it is an image of a sphinx, or a winged mythological creature with the head of a woman and the body of a lion. The emperor Nero had the Domus Aurea built after his previous palace, an 800-square-meter dwelling named the Domus Transitoria (Transitory House), burned down in the great fire of Rome in 64 AD. In April, the Domus Transitoria, which featured inlaid marbles in a range of colors and a profusion of frescoes across its walls and vaulted ceilings, was opened to the public after 10 years of restoration work. NORTH ADAMS Police arrested four people accused in a cocaine trafficking ring, including one with a lengthy criminal record for drug crimes in New Jersey. As a result of an extensive investigation into drug trafficking in North Adams, members of the Berkshire County Crime Task Force assigned to Berkshire District Attorney Andrea Harrington seized 141 grams of cocaine after searching a vehicle and a home at 152 Harding Ave., said Dennis Yusko, spokesman for Harrington. Anthony Dobbins, 46, and Brian Mullen, 53, of North Adams, were charged with trafficking in cocaine between 100 and 200 grams. The two were arraigned in Northern Berkshire District Court on Wednesday and held without bail pending dangerousness hearings scheduled for Friday for Dobbins and May 20 for Mullen, he said. Samantha Lloyd, 32, of North Adams, and Mark Tanguay, 36 of Williamstown, were charged with possession of crack cocaine. They were released after their arraignment until their next court date, he said. During the extensive investigation, police learned Dobbins, who has the extensive criminal record, was living at Mullen's home and allegedly using as a base to store and sell crack cocaine. Based on information learned, they received search warrants for the home, Yusko said. At about 3 p.m. Monday, police pulled over Dobbins as he was leaving his home and stopped his BMW on North Street. They arrested him and searched the car finding crack cocaine, $998 in cash and other evidence, he said. Detectives then searched the home and found more than 100 grams of cocaine and other items. They arrested Mullen, Lloyd and Tanguay at the home, Yusko said. We are grateful to our law enforcement partners for their efforts and are actively working with the Berkshire County Drug Court, local government and community organizations to provide people struggling with substance use disorder the hope and help that they need to recover. We are working to address both the supply side and the demand side of the drug problem here in Berkshire County, Harrington said. SOUTHWICK Police are investigating a fatal crash that occurred Wednesday night. One person was killed in a collision between a motorcycle and a car, WWLP 22News is reporting. The crash occurred around 8:30 p.m. on College Highway near the intersection of Sunnyside Road, police officials said. Officials would not say immediately if anyone else was injured in the accident. The road remained closed at 11:30 p.m. while police investigated the crash, police said. The Southwick Fire Department also responded to the crash and the Massachusetts State Police Accident Reconstruction Team and Crime Scene Services Unit are assisting in the investigation, police said. SPRINGFIELD A 38-year-old city woman, accused of assaulting her neighbors with plastic and metal bats Saturday afternoon, was released on $1,000 bail following her arraignment. Yesenia Ramos, of Searle Place, was ordered to return to court on June 27, James Leydon, spokesman for the Hampden District Attorneys office, said. She was arraigned Monday. Ryan Walsh, spokesman for Springfield police, said the incident was sparked earlier in the day when a dog owned by Ramos bit a juvenile. The victim required treatment at Baystate Medical Center. The suspect, armed with a plastic bat, went to her neighbors home at approximately 3:50 p.m. and started striking their vehicle. Ramos then returned to her home, grabbed a metal bat, returned to her neighbors vehicle and smashed one of its windows while an adult and child were inside. She then went to the victims home, smashed the front door window and let herself inside, Walsh said. A brief struggle ensued before Ramos left the scene. Police charged her with two counts of home invasion, two counts of assault and battery with a dangerous weapon and malicious damage to a motor vehicle. Stonewall. Duck and cover. Stonewall some more. That's pretty much the full extent of the Republican Party's playbook regarding release of the full, unredacted report from special counsel Robert S. Mueller III. Parts of the 448-page document on Russian interference in our nation's 2016 presidential election and possible efforts by the White House to obstruct justice have been shielded from view by Attorney General William P. Barr. Think that's nothing to worry about? That's how congressional Republicans feel. On Tuesday, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell said it's time to move on. "For two years, the Democratic Party held out hope that the legal system would undo their loss in 2016, "the Kentuckian said in a speech on the Senate floor. "They refused to make peace with the American people's choice. But the American people elected this president." McConnell will be running for re-election again next year. Soon after his Tuesday speech, his campaign sent out a fundraising letter noting that the senator had "just told the Democrats to end their Russia conspiracy spectacle and accept there was no collusion. CASE CLOSED." In McConnell's dreams, maybe. On Wednesday, the House Judiciary Committee voted to hold Barr in contempt of Congress for his refusal to respond to a subpoena directing him to provide the panel with the full report and its underlying documentation. Just before that vote, the White House asserted a sweeping claim of executive privilege in an effort to keep parts of the report under wraps. In other words, this case is far, far from closed. Unless and until members of Congress get to see Mueller's report, not Barr's version of it, there'll be real questions about what the attorney general blacked out of the document. He's given the people no reason to believe that he's looking to uncover the truth. On the contrary, since he was confirmed as attorney general in February, he's been showing himself to be little more than just another Trump sycophant. Barr and congressional Republicans have been behaving as though they pledged to support Trump, no matter what, not like those who took an oath to "support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic." McConnell and others in the GOP seem to feel that if they repeat the same two words -- "no collusion" -- over and over and over again, they, and the president they so revere, will be home free. They'd do well to think this through a bit. Trump repeatedly demonstrates that his only loyalties are to himself and the family business. If the Republican Party is little more than the Trump party, what will become of the once-Grand Old Party when their main man has finally shuffled off stage? And how will his army of steadfast supporters look if he ends up leaving in disgrace? If Mueller ends up appearing before Congress, his testimony could go a good bit toward cleaning up the mess that Barr made with his four-page summary letter that the special counsel would later say did not accurately reflect the findings contained in the full report. Until Mueller speaks and his complete report is made available to Congress, this case will never be closed. Hampden County Sheriff Nick Cocchi was right about a number of things in his recent opinion piece, Addiction treatment program needs to stay in Western Mass., April 21, page C4. Families face tough choices when a loved one is endangered by alcohol or substance use disorders, and treatment is desperately needed throughout the state. Where we strongly disagree is that we believe people civilly committed for treatment under the law known as Section 35 who have not been convicted or even charged with a crime should not be put in a jail or a prison. Sending people to a correctional institution just because they have a disease is wrong. In the words of Governor Bakers Opioid Working Group, It is important that treatment occur in a clinical environment, not a correctional setting, especially for patients committed civilly under section 35. Jails should not be a substitute for inpatient community treatment facilities. Massachusetts is the only state that incarcerates people who are civilly committed for alcohol or substance use disorders. This alone should tell us something. All the other 38 states that permit involuntary civil commitment recognize what public health experts know: these disorders are chronic medical conditions for which people need and deserve treatment, not punishment. Overcoming the stigma and shame of having a substance use disorder is a critical component of treatment. Putting people in a jail instead of a treatment facility simply reinforces and perpetuates the stigma that makes recovery from substance use so difficult. Family, loved ones and employers often wrongly conclude that because someone was sent to a prison or jail, they must have broken the law or committed a crime. This can negatively affect their personal relationships, prospects for employment, housing, willingness to continue in treatment after release, and other factors that are critical to their long term ability to stay clean and sober. It is no wonder that the overdose rate for people coming out of prisons and jails is extraordinarily high. The concern about the stigmatization of individuals with substance use disorders has been embraced by the Commonwealth in its campaign to become a State without Stigma. As the states own website, Mass.gov, puts it: The stigma of drug misuse keeps people from seeking treatment. Words like junkie, addict, and druggie can hurt, damaging self-image and standing in the way of recovery. Addiction is not a choice. Its a chronic disease similar to diabetes, heart disease and arthritis. Get the facts and embrace a community that needs our support. Join us as we make Massachusetts a #StateWithoutStigMA. Placing men in prisons and jails for substance use disorders directly undermines this important campaign. It sends the message that these individuals don't deserve treatment in a therapeutic environment because society believes jail is good enough for them. We would never accept sending people with cancer or heart disease to a jail for treatment. We should not accept it for people with alcohol or substance use disorders either. Indeed, in 2016 the Commonwealth ended incarceration for women who are civilly committed under Section 35. Women now go to one of several facilities in the community such as Taunton State Hospital where they receive high-quality treatment to begin to address their disorders in a therapeutic non-stigmatizing environment. Yet we have expanded the number of Section 35 beds in correctional facilities for men. We now send over 2,000 men every year to either the Department of Corrections Massachusetts Alcohol and Substance Abuse Center (MASAC) in Plymouth or the Hampden County Correctional Center run by Sheriff Cocchi. Prisoners Legal Services (PLS) filed a lawsuit in March to require that men who are committed under Section 35 be treated in community facilities, not in prisons and jails- just like women. Sheriff Cocchi mischaracterizes that lawsuit as somehow opposing treatment. Nothing could be further from the truth. Families often section loved ones who are eager for treatment because they cannot find a bed in the community- particularly in the Western part of the state. But the response should be to provide evidence- and community-based treatment to those who need it, not to relegate people to prisons and jails because they suffer from a disease. The PLS suit details a harsh and punitive environment at MASAC, where patients live in fear of the corrections officers who insult and ridicule them and place them in solitary confinement for minor rule infractions or exhibiting symptoms of withdrawal. Over and over again, PLS has heard from patients shocked, traumatized and ashamed to find themselves behind prison walls. Why am I in a prison, patients say, I didnt break the law. I didnt hurt anybody. Many describe MASAC as the worst experience of their lives. And family members often tell us that they would never have sectioned their sons, brothers, and husbands had they known they might be placed in a prison. There is no doubt that Sheriff Cocchis program at the Hampden County Correctional Facility is an improvement over MASAC. But, as one patient told us, It is still a jail. It has become increasingly clear in Massachusetts and around the country that too many people have been swept up into the criminal justice system. As the jail population declines, we should not fill empty beds with people who do not belong in a correctional setting. We as a state need to muster the political will and the resources to make treatment in the community available to everyone who needs it, whether they seek it out themselves or are civilly committed under Section 35. It is indeed, as Sheriff Cocchi said, a tough choice to petition a court to order forced treatment for a loved one. We should not make it tougher by compelling families to choose between prison and no treatment at all. Elizabeth Matos is executive director of Prisoners Legal Services of Massachusetts Massachusetts public schools are serving nearly twice as many students listed as having complex special needs and more than four times as many students on the autism spectrum as it did 15 years ago, according to state education data. Schools across the state are feeling the strains of increasing special education costs and urging lawmakers to address funding gaps, but one factor that advocates say is key is recognizing why special education costs have increased. The Massachusetts Association of Approved Private Schools argue that the overall number of students with disabilities hasnt increased much, but the number of students with severe needs has. The states new data documents how significantly the number of children with complex, challenging disabilities requiring the most intensive and personalized special education has been growing in particular, these childrens specialized needs, said Elizabeth Becker, executive director of MAAPS. Special education costs was one of four major areas that the Foundation Budget Review Commission said in its 2015 report that the states school funding formula not properly accounted for, resulting in the state underfunding schools by $1 billion to $2 billion. The other categories are increasing low-income students, English language learners and employee health insurance benefit costs. When these superintendents and CFOs talk about how theyve coped with that and the discussions about the numbers of teachers that have been cut, that has been as a result largely of the need to accommodate for these costs that have been growing at a much larger rate than what was factored in with the foundation formula, Tripp Jones, who has worked with leaders from Gateway Cities on education funding. Becker and James Major, former executive director of MAAPS, shared the associations analysis of how the special education population has changed over the past 15 years. In 2004, Massachusetts identified 62,660 students as having complex or challenging special education needs. The number has nearly doubled to 118,867 in 2019. Thats the majority of the states entire special education student population of nearly 174,000. There are multiple reasons for the increase, educators say. One reason is that some children who may have autism were not properly diagnosed at the time. Major, who until recently was executive director of MAAPS, attributes the increases to medical advancements keeping more infants born prematurely alive. Today, 9 out of 10 infants born prematurely survive, compared to 1 in 10 in 1980, Major said. "Many of these children now have disabilities that require they get special education support from public schools and districts partners, such as MAAPS member schools and educational collaboratives. The largest increase came from students with autism. In 2004, Massachusetts counted 5,383 students with autism. In 2019, that number increased to 22,845. The autism spectrum is so broad, however, that it includes children who excel in mainstream classrooms as well as those who may need round-the-clock care in a specialized school. The second-highest increase came from health impairments, including ADD, ADHD and other disabilities. In 2004, Massachusetts counted 5,383 students with health impairments compared to 24,001 in 2019. Students with neurological impairments increased from 4,315 in 2004 to 9,852 in 2019. The Joint Committee on Education is reviewing multiple education-related bills. House Chair Jason Lewis, a Winchester Democrat, said the committee plans to release a bill as soon as this summer. It is a top priority of the House, Senate and Gov. [Charlie] Baker to address education funding reform this year, he said in a statement. While lawmakers debate what the long-term fix to the states education funding gaps would look like, schools across the state are urging legislators to revamp the Chapter 70 formula to better account for special education costs, low-income students, English language learners and employee health benefits. Some children who are diagnosed with a disability seek special education resources in public schools, but an increasing number seek out-of-district placement. The states formula adds 3.75 percent to each schools budget under the assumption that 15 percent of students need in-district special education services 25 percent of the time. The Foundation Budget Review Commissions 2015 report, however, states that 16 percent of students need extra help. School districts also get a reimbursement under the circuit breaker program, which began in 2004 to offset the increasing costs of special education. Under the program, the state is supposed to pay 75 percent of the costs, but the state has often fallen short, paying 73 or 74 percent of the costs. The commissions 2015 report also stated that the formula is underestimating the cost of placing students out-of-district in a special education school by 59 percent. The commission recommended changing the percent from 3.75 to 4 percent and adding how much out-of-district costs schools face to accurately reflect how much school districts are paying. That figure becomes crucial to calculating each school districts reimbursement under the special education circuit breaker. South Hadley Superintendent Nicholas Young said his district has a $950 deficit, which he attributes to rising special education costs. The town cant keep up with the special education costs. Weve been cutting positions through attrition, he said. This year, our costs are so expensive that were making actual reductions. Young estimates the district will eliminate five to six positions and reduce hours for between 20 and 30 more positions. He said his administrations will be furloughed for the month of July. Dustin Pedroia went 1-for-3 with a run in his latest rehab game for Double-A Portland on Wednesday. He played seven innings at second base as planned. The 35-year-old second baseman is 4-for-12 with an RBI in four games. Pedroia will play again for the Sea Dogs today (Thursday) at DH, then likely will travel with Portland to Trenton for a weekend series, Kevin Thomas of The Portland Press Herald reported. Pedroia out after his scheduled 7 innings. Said he felt fine. Plans to DH in Thursday's 11 a.m. game "then we'll go from there." ... Tentative plan is to stay with the Sea Dogs this weekend, on the road to @TrentonThunder Kevin Thomas (@ClearTheBases) May 9, 2019 Pedroia also has been shopping for equipment in Portland. Enjoyed this tweet below: Athletes like Dustin Pedroia love people like me bc they can casually shop for a cup at Dicks in Portland, ME without getting asked for a picture... my 10yo on the other hand pic.twitter.com/aLG8Xo0VF3 mmma unfiltered (@MommaUnfiltered) May 8, 2019 The plan is for Pedroia to push himself so hes ready to be an everyday player when he returns to Boston. The Red Sox essentially had a third utility player on their roster without Pedroia being able to play every day and needing him to DH some games to stay in the lineup. The Red Sox want his bat in the lineup consistently at second base if hes on the 25-man roster. That said, it wouldnt be surprising if Pedroia needs more than a 20-day rehab assignment. He could be returned after 20 days and begin a new rehab assignment five days later if needed. SPRINGFIELD Hampden Superior Court Judge Richard J. Carey on Wednesday reduced the bail amount for Daniel Torres, charged with second-degree murder in the death of his 8-month-old daughter. Last month Judge Michael K. Callan set bail at $1 million cash for Torres, who is represented by Donald W. Frank. Torres, of Westfield, had been held in lieu of $1 million since his arrest in July. Carey reduced the bail to $20,000 cash or $200,000 surety. He made the decision at a bail hearing where he heard from prosecution and defense. People were in the audience from each side of the case. Torres brought his daughter to Baystate Noble Hospital on July 29, 2018, with severe swelling and bleeding of the brain, retinal hemorrhages, bruises on her face and shin and red marks on her forehead that appeared to be palm prints, according to the arrest report. The child was resuscitated six times before being transferred to Baystate Medical Center, where she was placed on life support and died two days later. Carey ordered that, if Torres posts bail, he must be outfitted with a GPS monitoring device and not be out of his home between 10 p.m. and 5 a.m. He cant have any unsupervised contact with children under 16. He must stay away from and have no contact with the mother of the child who died. SPRINGFIELD Lawyer Jared Olanoff was appointed this week to be standby counsel for Springfield murder defendant Erick Buchanon, whose case has been in the courts for four years. Buchanon, 50, of Springfield, is accused of murder in the fatal stabbing of Salina Merritt in Springfield. Buchanon has also been charged with stabbing and wounding two other people. As it stands now, Buchanon is representing himself. Olanoff will advise him on legal matters getting ready for trial and at trial. Olanoff took the appointment after Buchanons first standby counsel, Jeffrey Brown, asked to withdraw from the case last month. At that point Hampden Superior Court Judge Francis Flannery told Buchanon, at some point youre going to run out of attorneys. Buchanon has undergone mental health evaluations a number of times and has been deemed competent to stand trial. He went through six appointed lawyers before being allowed to represent himself with Brown as standby counsel. Four of the lawyers reported being unable to work with Buchanon and two left the case for other reasons. With most of his past lawyers, Buchanon has claimed there is a conspiracy between the prosecution and defense. Buchanon contended recordings of police interviews in the investigation of Merritts death have been tampered with. He has repeated his conspiracy theories to each judge hes appeared before. He often interrupts judges and has to be told to be quiet so the judge can talk. In May 2018, Buchanon told a judge in open court that if his court-appointed lawyer Adam T. Narris comes near him, Im going to hurt him. ... Im going to attack him. Judge Richard J. Carey said Buchanon should work with Narris or he would have to represent himself. Buchanon said he would represent himself with standby counsel. Police arrested Buchanon on a warrant on April 22, 2015, for the alleged stabbings, reported on March 11, 2015. Police found Merritts body at 356 Belmont Ave. Two other victims said they were stabbed and wounded at that address. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 10) Three members of a family died in a shooting incident Thursday at the National Center for Mental Health in Mandaluyong City. A police report said the incident happened inside the visitor's area of a ward in the mental health center around 2:43 p.m. while an elderly couple was visiting their 27-year-old grandson, a psychiatric patient with a court case. It said witnesses heard the three discussing family matters, then the grandfather suddenly shot his grandson and his wife. He later also killed himself. The mental health center, in a statement, expressed sadness over the incident and offered condolences to the victim's families. "We are saddened by the tragic event that unfolded at the National Center for Mental Health (NCMH) and we offer our condolences to the family of the victims," its statement read. "Due to the sensitivities of the issue involving the patient, we ask for privacy for the bereaved family." The hospital said police are already probing the incident. "The NCMH is committed to ensuring the safety of its patients and staff and is taking measures to tighten security at the hospital," it said. It added no other patients and NCMH staff were hurt nor involved. The hospital is in full operation after the incident, it added. This story has been updated to reflect reports from Mandaluyong police. Invited by the 26th Bydgoszcz Opera Festival, China's Suzhou Ballet Theater troupe performed its original ballet Tang Yin in Poland on Monday, giving the audience a taste of ballet with Chinese artistic elements. Tang Yin is about the life of the eponymous protagonist, a talented and romantic scholar who was born in Suzhou, Jiangsu province, about 500 years ago during China's Ming Dynasty (1368-1644). This ballet applies freehand brushwork to the stage dressing, such as shadows on the wall and a flower beside a pillow, to strengthen its aesthetic effect. It also uses the music of Arvo Part, an Estonian composer, and combines traditional and modern dances. Li Ying, artistic director of the Suzhou Ballet Theater, said she was very pleased that the troupe was invited to perform in Poland during the Bydgoszcz Opera Festival. "It is a matter of a great significance to us, a young ballet group formed 12 years ago," she adds. "Through the performance, we try to present oriental beauty to the audience in Europe, in the hope that the audience will enjoy Chinese culture," Li says. Liu Guangyuan, Chinese ambassador to Poland, says this year marks the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Poland. The visit by the Suzhou Ballet Theater troupe has demonstrated the close cooperation between the two countries in the field of art. The Suzhou Ballet Theater troupe is currently on a 12-day tour in Latvia and Poland. This also marks the first time that Tang Yin has been performed abroad. In 2015, at the invitation of the Bydgoszcz Opera Festival, the Suzhou troupe visited Poland and performed the ballet, Carmen. Founded in 2007, the Suzhou Ballet Theater is the only professional ballet troupe in Jiangsu province and the sixth in China. SPRINGFIELD A Hampden Superior Court judge on Thursday acquitted two Springfield police officers accused of rape. One officer, Joshua Figuroa, 27, will be on paid administrative leave beginning today, according to Springfield Police Department spokesman Ryan Walsh. Duty status can change at the commissioners behest, Walsh said. Figueroa had been on unpaid leave while the charges were pending. The second officer, Derrick Gentry-Mitchell, 28, remains suspended without pay, Walsh said. Gentry-Mitchell also faces perjury and other charges in connection with an alleged beating carried out by other officers. The not guilty verdicts Thursday close one chapter in an ongoing saga concerning allegations of misconduct by Springfield police officers. In addition to the rape and beating cases, other officers in recent years have been brought up on charges ranging from excessive force to child rape. Acting Police Commissioner Cheryl Clapprood vowed earlier this year to review cases of alleged officer misconduct in an effort to repair the departments reputation. In March she moved to fire the officer facing child rape charges, Daniel Cintron, who has been on unpaid leave for more than a year. After hearing closing arguments Thursday in Figueroa and Gentry-Mitchells rape trial, Judge Michael K. Callan took about 15 minutes to render his verdict. The defendants previously waived their right to a jury trial. Callan found Figueroa not guilty of the two counts of rape. He found Gentry-Mitchell not guilty of the charges of rape and indecent assault and battery. After the verdict, the two defendants shared intense hugs with their lawyers and each other in the front of the courtroom. They then proceeded toward the doors, getting hugs from family members and other police officers who were there to support them. The 26-year-old woman who alleged the two had raped her was in the courtroom with a victim witness advocate and left right after the verdict. Lawyers Terrence Dunphy for Gentry-Mitchell and Raipher Pellegrino for Figueroa argued the woman had consensual sex with each of the men in the early morning hours of March 16, 2017. Assistant District Attorney Dana Parsons, in her closing argument, said the officers offered conflicting testimony, and that the woman was too drunk to consent to have sex. Figueroa testified Thursday that he took the woman into the basement of Gentry-Mitchells house to show her ideas for a renovation he and Gentry-Mitchell were planning. They had sex, he said, but he described her as the aggressor. Under cross-examination by Parsons, Figueroa acknowledged he could have walked away and not had sex with the woman. Gentry-Mitchell testified he had consensual sex with the woman in his bed after Figueroa left his house. In his closing argument, Pellegrino cited messages between Figueroa and the woman as evidence that no rape occurred. Figueroa messaged the woman saying the night before was fun, adding, Lets do it again. The woman wrote back, Yes, definitely. I think right there ends the commonwealths case, Pellegrino said. Dunphy said the womans testimony wasnt credible. He said she could have left Gentry-Mitchells house at any time. Her cars sitting right in the yard. She has the keys, he said. Dunphy said, I dont know how the case was brought by the government on this discovery (evidence). Parsons said the testimony of the defendants was self-serving and should not be believed, and asked what the woman would have to gain by leveling the accusations. The woman did not report the alleged rape to police herself. She told a man with whom she had an off-again, on-again relationship, and he called Southampton police at 1 a.m. on March 24, 2017. Springfield police later interviewed the woman and filed charges. In her testimony at the start of the trial Tuesday, the woman said she had been drinking at Nathan Bills Bar & Restaurant and was too intoxicated to drive home. Parsons said the plan was for Gentry-Mitchell to drive the woman to her home in her car, but he took her to his own house instead. Nathan Bills is the common denominator in another court case pending against Gentry-Mitchell. In that case, he is one of 11 people accused of misleading state investigators probing the alleged parking lot beating of four men by off-duty Springfield police after an argument inside the bar April 8, 2015. Gentry-Mitchell was indicted in March on charges of perjury, misleading a police officer/investigator/grand jury and filing a false report. He is scheduled to be arraigned May 14 in Worcester Superior Court. Six Springfield officers and Nathan Bills owner John Sullivan face charges including assault and battery and conspiracy. Glenn Armstrong has been found guilty of first-degree murder in the killing of his 83-year-old father in Blackstone more than two years ago, officials said. Following a trial in Worcester Superior Court, the guilty verdict came down Thursday afternoon after just a few hours of deliberation. Armstrong was also found guilty of larceny of a motor vehicle, according to the office of Worcester District Attorney Joseph Early Jr. Armstrong, 50, is scheduled to be sentenced on Monday morning. First-degree murder carries a mandatory sentence of life in prison without parole. I hope the family of Walter Armstrong can find some measure of closure from this verdict, Early said. Walter Armstrong was found dead on Jan. 11, 2017, in his home at 36 Summer St. in Blackstone. At the time, officials said the father and son were living together. Though Walter Armstrongs remains were in the home, his son was nowhere to be found. Glenn Armstrong fled in his fathers pickup truck. He was found and arrested the next day in Mount Laurel, New Jersey, after the truck ran out of gas. Armstrong fought his return to Massachusetts following his arrest. Walter Armstrong died of multiple blunt trauma injuries and asphyxia by ligature strangulation, according to Earlys office. During the trial, the jury was told that the elder Armstrong was badly beaten and was found with a trash bag over his head, with a belt securing the bag, according to the Worcester Telegram & Gazette. State Police Sgt. John Costa testified that the bag had the younger Armstrongs fingerprints on it, according to the newspaper. Dr. Maria Del Mar Capo-Martinez of the state medical examiners office testified that it was her opinion the elder Armstrong was still alive when the bag was placed on his head, the Telegram reported. The case moved to Worcester Superior Court after Armstrong was indicted for murder in June 2017. Armstrong had a previous criminal record. In 2015, he was sentenced to serve nine months in prison for an assault and battery that occurred at a Blackstone bar. Federal court records show Armstrong was sentenced to 18 months in prison in 1994 after threatening to kill then-President Bill Clinton. Armstrong, who was living in Uxbridge at the time, was placed on probation for 36 months. A Massachusetts man accused of illegally flying a helicopter in his East Brookfield backyard lost his license to fly previously for helping steal a helicopter in Norwood, authorities said. Antonio Santonastaso, 59, was arrested Thursday and faces charges of serving as an airman without an airman certificate and making false statements to federal agents. He was in Worcester federal court and released on $10,000 secured bond. A federal judge also ordered him not to fly any type of aircraft. The Federal Aviation Administration revoked Santonastasos license to pilot an aircraft in 2000 after he participated in the theft of a helicopter from Norwood Memorial Airport. A federal affidavit shows he was convicted of larceny over $250 in that case. In February 2018, Santonastaso bought a helicopter in Texas. Later that same month, investigators learned he was flying the helicopter in his backyard, an acre-and-a-half plot off Podunk Road surrounded by trees and neighbors, a federal affidavit said. He flew the helicopter more than 50 times between April 28, 2018, and Nov. 11, 2018, authorities said. FAA inspectors reviewed the path Santonastaso used when taking off and landing from his backyard and concluded that it was extremely hazardous, according to the U.S. Attorneys Office. A neighbor called authorities on Feb. 27, 2018, and was worried. Santonastaso was flying the helicopter close to the neighbors backyard and swing set. The neighbors grandchildren used that swing set, records said. Another neighbor took video of the helicopter and posted it on YouTube. That same neighbor had reported Santonastaso to East Brookfield Police previously. Records showed an officer visited Santonastasos home on Feb. 26, 2018 as the helicopter was landing. Santonastaso was flying under the supervision of his nephew, who had certificates allowing him to fly, authorities said. Investigators continued to receive complaints about the helicopter in March. A neighbor gave FAA investigators a picture showing Santonastaso alone, flying, records said. East Brookfield Police also received a complaint in late March. Santonastaso admitted he was flying. The following month, in April, an inspector met Santonastaso at his home. Santonastaso was told his license had been revoked in 2000, records show. Santonastaso was warned he could face penalties. Santonastaso presented a temporary airman certificate from 1985 and logbook endorsements from prior years, which an instructor had generated, and which purportedly (according to Santonastaso) authorized solo flights, authorities said in the affidavit. Those endorsements werent valid, and the 1985 temporary airman certificate expires after 120 days. When questioned by the FAA and federal agents, Santonastaso repeatedly made false statements regarding his eligibility to pilot the helicopter, the U.S. Attorneys Office said. Among other things, Santonastaso falsely claimed to have not learned that the FAA had revoked his license, and made false statements regarding his applications for a medical certificate, which is required in order to operate an aircraft. Santonastaso claimed the prior theft of the helicopter was a whole story made up. He claimed at the time he was a member of a clandestine team of operative performing black ops overseas, authorities said. As neighbors logged days showing more and more flights, they took pictures and videos of Santonastaso inside the helicopter, records said. The Worcester man beaten after a 2016 high-speed police chase from Holden, Massachusetts to Nashua, New Hampshire has filed a federal lawsuit against multiple police officers. News helicopters captured footage of officers repeatedly punching Richard Simone Jr. after he exited his vehicle in Nashua and dropped to his hands and knees. Former New Hampshire State Trooper Andrew Monaco pleaded guilty to assaulting Simone, and Massachusetts State Trooper Joseph Flynn was charged with assault but found not guilty at trial in 2017. Simones lawsuit alleges multiple civil rights violations and claims that the beating left him with a concussion as well as persistent headaches and vision problems. When Mr. Simone got on his hands and knees, he surrendered himself to the police; he did not surrender his Constitutional rights. Indeed, like any other citizen, Mr. Simone remained subject to the laws penalties and protections, his legal complaint says. Mr. Simone served a prison sentence as the penalty for his violations of the law, and with this Complaint now petitions this Honorable Court to fulfil the promise of the laws protections. Simones suit names the following people as defendants: Monaco Flynn New Hampshire Commissioner of Safety and former State Police Director Robert Quinn Former Massachusetts State Police Colonel Richard McKeon New Hampshire State Police Trooper Mark Suttmeier New Hampshire State Police Sergeant Thomas Lencki, Jr. Nashua Police Sergeant Clark Gephardt Nashua Police Sergeant Joshua Trefry Nashua Police Officer Steven Hallam Nashua Police Department, Chairman of Police Commissioners James Tollner; Holden Police Officer Jonathan Bourget Holden Police Officer Jonathan Santimore Holden Police Chief David Armstrong Millbury Police Officer Jarrod Woeller Simone, who had previous convictions for cocaine distribution and assault, served a year in jail on motor vehicle charges related to the 2016 chase and its lead-up. In May of 2016, a warrant was issued for Simones arrest after he failed to appear at a probation violation hearing for failing to pay restitution for an earlier larceny conviction. Officers from multiple Worcester County towns attempted to pull him over in the following days. Simone refused to comply, though no lengthy chases developed because his default warrant on a non-violent crime did not justify pursuit, according to his lawsuit. That changed in the early morning of May 8, 2016, when Woeller attempted to pull Simone over in Mullbury. Woeller alleged that Simone attempted to ram his car, swerving at the last second to avoid the cruiser. In the lawsuit, Simone denies that he tried to strike Woellers vehicle. Simone would later plead guilty to negligent driving for the Millbury incident, with a charge of assault with a dangerous weapon dropped as part of the plea agreement. But at the time, he became wanted for an alleged violent crime against an officer. And when police tried to pull him over in Holden on May 11, they gave chase. The chase covered 50 miles from Holden to New Hampshire and reached speeds of over 100 mph, with Massachusetts and New Hampshire state troopers joining the pursuit. When Simone eventually stopped his vehicle on a residential street in Nashua, hovering news helicopters captured footage of what happened next. The video shows Simone exit his pickup truck and get down on his hands and knees. Monaco and Flynn immediately begin raining down punches on Simone, as other officers circle around him. Simone alleges in his suit that other officers, including New Hampshire troopers, Nashua police officers and Holden police officers, held him down or watched the beating without attempting to stop it. Simones suit also names Woeller, alleging that the Millbury officer falsely accused him of trying to ram a police cruiser, justifying the chase. Tears filled Hunter Chaneys eyes as he stared are at three flat screen televisions, which had just shown a short film he had not only seen many times but helped produce. Behind him, a piece of mangled steel from the former World Trade Center in New York City sprouted from the concrete floor. To his left sat an M1 A1 Abrams tank - the only modern version of the tank on display in the world. The three converged into a moment of reflection inside the American Heritage Museum in Stow that opened its doors for the first time on May 3. You just dont have a dry eye after seeing something like that, said Chaney, the director of marketing for the Collings Foundation. What I really hope is that it affects people, that theyll now start to dig in more about this history. The video depicted former U.S. Marines reliving a day inside the tank on display that haunts them. That very tank hit an IED in Iraq. Sgt. George Ulloa died as a result of it. They were patrolling the roads in Al-Anbar because of the events on Sept. 11, 2001. The three exhibits connected into one through human experiences. It really highlights what our veterans go through and the memories and the sacrifices they take with him and how it affects them on a personal level, on a family level, Chaney said. It really humanizes war. Nearly 100 tanks, armored vehicles, artillery and equipment fill a more than 70,000 square foot space that took five years to develop. The museum encompasses military artifacts ranging from an 18th century cannon - similar to what was used in the Revolutionary War - to IED detecting robots currently used today. These were all built to create war. To fight war, to destroy things, but it has ramifications, Chaney said. In all cases, war can be avoided. And what we hope is when people come through here and see all of the terrible things that happened in the various wars that we had, that not only are they interested in learning more, but they also walk away with a better understanding of what it actually means to serve. The museum experience includes an immersive trench thats meant to mimic battles from World War I. Barbed wire atop wooden posts sharpened to a point surround it. Living quarters are tucked beneath it through cubby holes. Large shells are scattered throughout amidst the faux dirt. The floor vibrates. Strobe lights act as explosions. The flashes reveal a soldier dead, laying atop the wooden barricade in the distance. At the end of the experience, thats narrated by a WWI nurse, a curtain rises revealing a 6-ton tank, the first the patron sees. Its one of more than 280 donated to the museum by the family of Jacques M. Littlefield in 2013. Littlefield owned the largest private tank collection in the world and built a relationship with the Collings Foundation as its Wings of Freedom Tour traveled the country. In 2006, Littlefied died of pancreatic cancer. At the time he was planning to donate a few tanks, but his family felt the collection was best in the hands of the Collings Foundation. The foundation kept 84 and auctioned off duplicates to pay for the construction of the museum. Chaney described it as truly one of a kind and a hidden gem tucked off Main Street in Hudson. Listed at 568 Main St. in Hudson, patrons drive down a long driveway into Stow, about a mile after Google Maps announces your arrival. The reward for continuing down the driveway includes dozens of tanks that can be seen nowhere else in the continent and some are the only in the world. Visitors can see the same model Mercedes Benz W31 Type G4 that Adolf Hitler used to drive through Germany. Theres a Higgins Boat, the amphibious tool used to transport troops to Normandy during the D-Day invasion. The vessel on display was used that day. The M3 tank just a few feet away was used by American forces to liberate Jews from concentration camps. Theyre a small sample of vehicles that are not replicas but actual pieces of history. Many of them still run. Visitors are met in the main room with a screen that drops from the ceiling between a Panther Tank - one of Littlefields prized possessions - and a T-34/85. As it depicts each stage of WWII, lights from the more than 1,100 on the ceiling, highlight each tank used, from Italy to Russia to to Great Britain and Japan. The Type 4 Ho-Ro, a self propelled Japanese tank, is believed to be the only one remaining in the world. A towering Scud missile launcher dwarfs it on display a few feet away. It too is the only one on display in North America. The artifacts capture the eyes of patrons but Chaney hopes the words of veterans resonate with guests. We hope people will take away a discussion. Chaney said. During the week, the museum will educate schools from around the state through field trips. On weekends - the museum is open Friday through Sunday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. - Korean War veterans often come and share photos, stories and even rations they saved from the war. The museum holds monthly speaking events to allow veterans to tell their stories and the public to grasp their experiences. During its opening weekend, the museum welcomed about 1,000 people. A veteran, a former tanker, greeted most of them at the door. From the very first step, to the final tear-generating film, the museum is meant to immerse visitors in the stories and experiences. The real takeaway from this is these things affect people in the most profound way. It doesnt stop when they leave, Chaney said. It really gives a definitely sense and appreciation of what PTSD is all about. The American Heritage Museum is located at 568 Main St, Hudson. It is open Friday, Saturday and Sunday only from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. You are here: Business U.S. software giant Oracle has begun laying off employees at its China Development Center, the 21st Century Business Herald reported on Tuesday. The first round of downsizing affects over 900 employees, with Oracle offering a severance package of "N+6", which means those laid off receive their monthly salary multiplied by the number of years they worked plus six months' pay. At a full staff meeting, Oracle China said that it was a very difficult decision made in the face of a rapidly changing business environment and a strategic necessity to make timely adjustments to existing R&D systems and business models. Oracle also vowed to offer the best customer experience in the cloud computing sector and continue to expand its operations. In addition to the compensation package, Oracle said it will provide career planning services to help laid-off workers make career transitions. Media outlets reported in March that Oracle would close its China Development Center, affecting some 1,600 staff members. Health authorities will redouble their efforts to train nurses in eldercare as the proportion of older people in the population expands and tens of millions of people struggle with disabilities, a senior health official said on Wednesday. Jiao Yahui, deputy chief of medical administration and supervision at the National Health Commission, said there are not enough nurses to cope with the growing needs of the country's elderly. A regulation on the training of healthcare workers and standards of service is being drafted. It is expected to boost the number of nurse's aides, Jiao said ahead of International Nurses Day on Sunday. The nurse's aides will complement the work of full-fledged nurses to meet the demand for services for the elderly, she said. The number of registered nurses in China topped 4 million as of the end of last year. Nearly 70 percent held a junior college degree or above, accounting for almost half of all healthcare professionals, she said. Last year, there were 150 million people 60 years or above living with chronic diseases in China. Of those, 44 million were fully or partially disabled and in need of regular nursing services, she said. "With more nurses and nurse's aides, the demand for nursing services from the elderly will be gradually met," she said. The commission will also encourage community health centers to provide more nursing services for the elderly in neighborhoods, Jiao said. They would include more beds and setting up day-care centers. Regulations will also be released to encourage community health centers to provide beds to the elderly at home, so family doctors can provide treatment there, she said. "The disabled, whether fully or partial, will be the priority in nursing services," Jiao said. "We will release a detailed standard for evaluating nursing services for the disabled elderly population, including psychological needs, so the services will aim precisely at those most in need," she said. Xi Huan, vice-president of Beijing Hospital, said major medical institutions need to make more efforts to improve services for the elderly, including the promotion of disease prevention education and increased follow-up visits for elderly patients who have been discharged from the hospital. "Big hospitals should provide more help for elderly patients, and more follow-up nursing services after they leave the hospital, so they can get timely help if problems occur at home or at community health centers," he said. Increasing prevalence of asthma cases and COPDs (chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases) are fueling the market growth, predominantly. The increasing technological advancements transpired in the field of medical technology, provide impetus to the market growth to an extent. Furthermore, the intervention of digital health into asthma management has presented innovations like mobile applications and electronic monitoring devices, complementing to asthma inhalers. This, in turn, has escalated the market on the global platform. Get Sample Report @ https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/sample_request/1653 Additionally, factors such as growing population and geriatric populace worldwide are fostering the market growth. Improving economic conditions are contributing to the market growth, enabling access to the quality life & the improved healthcare. Seminal efforts &investments put in the development of these devices, by the key market players are paying off well, driving the market growth. Global Asthma Inhaler Device Market Key Players Some of the key players in this market are GlaxoSmithKline Plc. (U.K) Merck & Co., Inc. (US) 3M (US) Aristopharma Ltd. (Bangladesh) SRS PHARMACEUTICALS PVT. LTD. (India) Intas Pharmaceuticals, Ltd. (India) Global Asthma Inhaler Device Market Segmentation For the convenience of the report and enhanced understanding; MRFR has segmented the report into four key dynamics. By Types: Consists of MDI (Metered-Dose Inhaler), MDI with a Spacer, and Dry-Powder Inhaler among others. By Technology: Manually & Digitally Operated Inhaler Devices, among others. By End Users: Clinics, Hospital, and Retail Stores, among others. By Regions: North America, Europe, APAC and Rest of the World. Global Asthma Inhaler Device Market Regional Analysis Globally, North America is the leading market for Asthma Inhalers, accounting for the largest revenue pocket, followed by the Europe & Asia Pacific markets, respectively. The US market backed by the high expenditure on healthcare is the major contributor to the regional market growth. Moreover, increasing patient population and availability of a wide range of products provide impetus to the regional market growth. On the other hand, Europe, the worlds second-largest market for asthma inhaler device, is fostered by the high per capita income and robust healthcare penetration in the region. The strong market growth in the countries like Germany & France drives the regional market growth, large scale. With the presence of a huge patient pool with various types of allergic conditions and extensive use of respiratory devices, the market is projected to register a phenomenal CAGR during the forecast period. Asia Pacific Asthma Inhaler Device Market is expected to perceive an exponential growth. Owing to the huge population and the burgeoning medical treatment market, India & China drive the regional market growth. Asthma is prevailing in the region along with the increasing number of patients complaining about respiratory problems. Vietnam, Thailand, and Malaysia among the other South East Asian countries are projected to contribute significantly to the regional market growth. With the rising environmental pollution and rising demand for respiratory inhalers, the APAC region will register a significant CAGR during the review period. About Market Research Future: At Market Research Future (MRFR), we enable our customers to unravel the complexity of various industries through our Cooked Research Report (CRR), Half-Cooked Research Reports (HCRR), Raw Research Reports (3R), Continuous-Feed Research (CFR), and Market Research & Consulting Services. In order to stay updated with technology and work process of the industry, MRFR often plans & conducts meet with the industry experts and industrial visits for its research analyst members. Contact: Market Research Future Office No. 528, Amanora Chambers Magarpatta Road, Hadapsar, Pune 411028 Maharashtra, India +1 646 845 9312 Email: salesteam@marketresearchfuture.com GlobalInformation, by type (central scanners, peripheral scanners and others), by technology (quantitative computed tomography (QCT), radiographic absorptiometry (RA), single x-ray absorptiometry (SXA), dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA) and others), by end user (hospitals, orthopedic clinics, academic & research institutes and others) Forecast till 2022 Bone densitometry is a non-invasive technology that can measure bone mass. Devices useful for this are known as bone densitometers. Market Research Future (MRFR) has published and released a research report about the global bone densitometers market that anticipates aggrandizement for this market with 5.3% CAGR (Compound Annual Growth Rate) during the forecast period between 2016 and 2022. In terms of cash, the market is expected to rise to US $ 1.2 bn. Request Free Sample @ https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/sample_request/2300 Analyzing the market structure, this report evaluates the future growth potential of the market. It observes the strategies of the key players in the market and follows the competitive developments like joint ventures, new product developments, mergers and acquisitions, research and developments (R & D) in the market. Key Players The key players in the global bone densitometers market include Aarna Systems And Wellness Pvt. Ltd. (India) DMS Imaging (France) Echolight SPA (Italy) General Electric Company (USA) Hologic Inc. (the USA) MedWrench LLC (USA) Osteosys Co. Ltd (South Korea) Schick Sirona (USA) Swissray (USA) Tecnicare Healthcare Company (USA) The primary reasons for the growth of the global bone densitometers market are the technological advancement and growing population of senior citizens who are highly susceptible to bone-related ailments. This market has been segmented on the basis of end user, technology, type, and lastly, region. Based on end users, this market has been segmented into academic & research institutes, diagnostic centers, hospitals, specialty clinics, and others. The technology-based segmentation segments the market into dual-energy X-Ray absorptiometry (DXA), quantitative computed tomography (QCT), radiographic absorptiometry (RA), single X-Ray absorptiometry (SXA), and others. High quality scanner machines are making these technologies more reliable. By types, the market has been segmented into central scanners, peripheral scanners, and others. The regional segmentation of the global bone densitometers market into the continent-based regional markets namely The Americas (North America & South America), Europe, Asia Pacific, and the Middle East & Africa (MEA). The Americas segment is the largest regional market for bone densitometers because of technological advancement. North America as a market is bigger than South America due to the availability of more advanced technology. The American market for bone densitometers is expected to reach around US $ 650 mn by the end of the forecast period. In North America, the most powerful economy is the United States of America (USA). Dalios Denture and Hearing Clinic in Chatham and Starkey Hearing Technologies have donated $6,000 towards the Foundation of Chatham-Kent Health Alliances Diagnostic Imaging Equipment Renewal Campaign. The funds will be used to purchase diagnostic medical equipment for Chatham-Kent that includes a bone densitometer, and a just-installed SPECT-CT scanner. Europe is the second largest market. It has a high density of population, but in terms of technological advancement, it lags behind North America. The most important country-specific market are France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and the United Kingdom (UK), followed by the rest of Europe. According to the report, Asia Pacific region is expected to be a fastest growing region in the bone densitometers market during the forecast period. The significant country-specific markets in this region are China, India, Japan, and South Korea, followed by the rest of the Asia Pacific region. In the Asia Pacific, there are few countries that are technologically advanced. In the MEA region, the market is limited. Reasons for the limited market growth in this region are lack of awareness, lack of education, lack of technological development, political instability, and healthcare not considered a priority by majority governments in this region. Related Reports: Cell Therapy Market Research Report- Global Forecast till 2023 Cell Isolation Market Research Report Forecast to 2023 About Market Research Future: At Market Research Future (MRFR), we enable our customers to unravel the complexity of various industries through our Cooked Research Report (CRR), Half-Cooked Research Reports (HCRR), Raw Research Reports (3R), Continuous-Feed Research (CFR), and Market Research & Consulting Services. MRFR team have supreme objective to provide the optimum quality market research and intelligence services to our clients. Our market research studies by products, services, technologies, applications, end users, and market players for global, regional, and country level market segments, enable our clients to see more, know more, and do more, which help to answer all their most important questions. In order to stay updated with technology and work process of the industry, MRFR often plans & conducts meet with the industry experts and industrial visits for its research analyst members. Contact: Market Research Future +1 646 845 9312 Email: sales@marketresearchfuture.com Description Wiseguyreports.Com Adds Sexually Transmitted Diseases -Market Demand, Growth, Opportunities and Analysis Of Top Key Player Forecast To 2024 To Its Research Database Sexually transmitted infections are asymptomatic and often undiagnosed. Routinely screening and preventive measures are important for early identification, which can prevent severe complications and further transmission. An untreated STD results in several other chronic diseases including pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), infertility, increased risk of HIV and other STDs. There are certain strains of HPV that are linked to cervical, penile, throat and anal cancers. Various types of STDs include: Gonorrhea. Syphilis. Herpes. Chlamydia. Hepatitis (HBV). Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). Human Papilloma Virus (HPV or genital warts). Chancroid. Trichomoniasis. Sexually transmitted infections are spread through sexual contact. These infections are primarily transmitted from one person to another via sexually transmissible bacteria, viruses and parasites. There are several STDs that can be transmitted through tissue transfer, blood products and from mother to child during childbirth or pregnancy. The disease symptoms vary from one person to another; in a few cases there might be no disease symptoms. Symptoms can be mild or acute from one individual to another. There can be severe consequences or long-term complications in individuals suffering from the disease. A significant proportion of sexually transmitted diseases worldwide is caused by eight major infections: syphilis, chlamydia, gonorrhea, genital herpes, hepatitis B, human papillomavirus (HPV) and trichomoniasis. These diseases have a high prevalence, particularly in developing countries, and it can result in substantial productivity losses for individuals, and communities. In developing countries, sexually transmitted infections are among the leading causes of disability. Request for Sample Report @ https://www.wiseguyreports.com/sample-request/3379297-global-markets-for-treatment-and-diagnosis-of-sexually-transmitted-diseases Report Scope This report organizes information from diverse sources into a comprehensive report that includes sections on disease overviews, industry structure, diagnostic kits, treatment interventions, pharmaceutical products, emerging technologies, regulations, reimbursement and patents. The scope of this report includes an overview of the global market scenario for diagnosis and treatments of sexually transmitted disease with base year data of 2017, estimations for 2018 and forecast for 2019-2023 using projections of CAGR. Market data in value terms is provided at global, regional and country levels for disease areas and treatment by drug class. Market data for sexually transmitted disease diagnostics is provided for regional levels, with details on test types. The report focuses on key sectional assessments for major disease areas such as chlamydia, genital herpes, HIV and hepatitis, among others, and provides detailed analysis of epidemiology, historic and current disease incidence trends, therapeutic interventions and diagnostic overview. It forecasts the global market by drug class for treatment of STDs and discusses market data for antibiotics, antivirals/antiretrovirals and other treatments. Diagnostic test types such as enzyme immunoassays (EIA) and ELISA, PCR, rapid diagnostics and others, are detailed with market data current and forecasts. Market dynamics such as drivers, restraints and trends are discussed in the report. This report also involves regional market overviews for North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America and the Middle East. The regional overviews provide information on the epidemiology of sexually transmitted disease by country and region and also details market data for each region. The regulatory scenario is discussed for United States, Europe, Japan and China to provide an overview of the regulations for new drug launches and diagnostic kits. The reimbursement scenario is outlined for the United States, Europe, and Japan to provide an overview to our readers. Pipeline analysis and scenarios are discussed for major disease to provide details on the major pipeline developments. The competitive landscape discusses the major manufacturers involved in the sexually transmitted disease therapeutics market, key developments and product offerings. Report Includes 45 data tables and 53 additional tables An overview of the global market for diagnosis and treatments of sexually transmitted diseases Country specific data and analysis for United States, Canada, Mexico, France, Germany, U.K., Spain, China, India, Japan, and Middle East and Africa Coverage of major disease areas, and a detailed analysis of historic and current disease incidence trends Discussion about market dynamics such as drivers, restraints, and trends Information on the regulations for new drug launches and diagnostic kits for United States, Europe, Japan and China Detailed profiles of the major market players, including Abbott Laboratories, AbbVie Inc., Agilent Technologies, Inc., Biomerieux, Inc., Bio-Rad Laboratories Inc., Novartis Ag, Pfizer Inc., Promega Corp., and Thermo Fisher Scientific, Inc. Leave a Query @ https://www.wiseguyreports.com/enquiry/3379297-global-markets-for-treatment-and-diagnosis-of-sexually-transmitted-diseases Continued Contact Us: Sales@Wiseguyreports.Com Ph: +1-646-845-9349 (Us) Ph: +44 208 133 9349 (Uk) The Global Lung Cancer Market is touted to reach USD 36929.8 Million by the end of 2023 which was valued at USD 15219.7 Million in 2016 and expand at a progressive CAGR of 13.5% over the forecast period of 2014-2023, proclaims Market Research Future (MRFR) in an exhaustive study. Global Lung Cancer Market Information, by Type (SCLC, NSCLC); by treatment (Surgery, Chemotherapy, Radiotherapy, Photodynamic therapy (PDT), Laser therapy); by end users (Hospitals & Clinics, Cancer Research Centers, Laboratories) Forecast to 2023 High prevalence of lung cancer is the primary reason behind the growth of the market which results in higher screening, diagnosis, and treatment. The market is growing considerably on account of widespread smoking habits among the global population which is one of the primary reasons for lung cancer. Rising awareness on a global scale purveyed by various awareness programs emphasizing lung cancer initiated by multiple governments has also added fuel to the growth of the market. Rise in awareness results in early detection and treatment. Additionally, Favorable reimbursement scenario also supports the growth of the market. Insurance companies are progressively covering treatment of lung cancer under their insurance schemes which encourages patients to opt for treatment. Get Free Sample @ https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/sample_request/1185 Lung Cancer Market Key Players Prominent players at the forefront of competition in the Lung Cancer Market and are profiled in MRFR Analysis are: Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd (Switzerland) Novartis AG (Switzerland) Pfizer (US) Merck & Co., Inc. (US) Bristol-Myers Squibb (US) Eli Lilly and Company (US) Sanofi (France) Lung Cancer Market Segmentation The Global Lung Cancer Market has been divided on the basis of types, treatments, end users & regions. On the basis of types, the market is bifurcated into SCLC (Small Cell Lung Cancer) & NSCLC (Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer). SCLC typically originates in the cells that line the bronchi in the middle of the lungs. Cell carcinoma & combined cell carcinoma are the sub-segments of SCLC. NSCLC tends to affect the exterior region of the lung. This form of cancer is also referred to as adenocarcinoma. Sarcoma & Sarcomatoid carcinoma forms the sub-segments of NSCLC. SCLC held around 14.6% market shares back in 2015 whereas NSCLC earned above USD 1.298.8 million that year On account of treatments, the market is fragmented into surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, photodynamic therapy (PDT) & laser therapy. Hospitals & clinics, cancer research centers & laboratories form the end users. Amongst these, hospitals hold the largest market share. Regionally, the market is segmented into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, & Middle East & Africa & Rest Of The World. Lung Cancer Market Regional Analysis The Global Lung Cancer Market spans across the regions of North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and Middle East & Africa. North America is at the forefront of the global lung cancer market due to the presence of a well-developed healthcare sector, technological advances in healthcare and supportive government policies in the region. Europe is the second largest market for lung cancer and is expected to reach USD 8,536.3 Million by the end of 2023. Rising prevalence of lung cancer and extensive R&D activities for the development of drugs and therapies for lung cancer supports the growth of the market in Europe. Asia Pacific market is expected to gain prominence over the forecast period owing to rising expenditure and increasing focus on healthcare in the region. The Middle East & Africa market is expected to have a limited but steady growth over the forecast period. About Market Research Future: At Market Research Future (MRFR), we enable our customers to unravel the complexity of various industries through our Cooked Research Report (CRR), Half-Cooked Research Reports (HCRR), Raw Research Reports (3R), Continuous-Feed Research (CFR), and Market Research & Consulting Services. In order to stay updated with technology and work process of the industry, MRFR often plans & conducts meet with the industry experts and industrial visits for its research analyst members. Contact: Market Research Future Office No. 528, Amanora Chambers Magarpatta Road, Hadapsar, Pune 411028 Maharashtra, India +1 646 845 9312 Email: salesteam@marketresearchfuture.com Market Insights: One of the fastest growing markets, Mobile Health (mHealth) is expected to grow explosively during the forecast period. The key driving factor responsible for this astounding growth is the worldwide increasing adoption of digital devices. MRFRs report projects a global market evaluation of 21.71 billion by 2023 and 36.5% CAGR during the forecast period. Key growth factors driving the market include the development of the healthcare sector by leaps and bounds in the past few years as well as the rapidly increasing availability of personal health devices that can be worn easily and connected to a smartphone or tablet. Request Free Sample Copy of Mobile Healthat https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/sample_request/755 Personal digital devices such as smartphones and tablets are used on a wide scale globally and there are a variety of applications that can help patients manage their health with relative ease, thus facilitating rapid growth of the mHealth market. The integration of wireless technologies with portable devices, cost effectiveness and ease of use are other factors that have been identified as growth facilitators for this market. Developing government regulations and a lack of technological awareness in the geriatric population are expected to restrain growth. However, despite market restraints the scope is expected to overshadow constraints and a significant growth in the global market is expected during the forecast period of 2017 to 2023. Key Players: Agamatrix Inc. Alivecor Inc. Apple Inc. Athenahealth Inc. GE Healthcare Jawbone Inc. Google Inc. AT&T Inc. and more. Market Segmentation: In MRFRs report, the global mHealth market is segmented on the basis of ecosystem, therapeutics and application type. On the basis of ecosystem the market is segmented into medical devices, mobile health apps & content solution and healthcare & pharmaceuticals. On the basis of therapeutics the market is segmented into diabetes, respiratory, mental & neurological disorders and fitness & lifestyle. On the basis of application the market is segmented into monitoring applications, diagnosis & treatment, education & awareness, healthcare management, wellness & prevention and remote data collection. Of these, monitoring applications hold the largest share of 61.8%. Mobile Health Market Regional Analysis: MRFRs report further analyzes the market based on region including the Americas, Europe, Asia Pacific (APAC) and the Rest of the World (ROW). The Americas lead the market as the region includes developed countries such as Canada and the U.S. These countries have a well-developed healthcare sector and a strong adoption of the latest digital technology which has helped facilitate growth in the region. There is also a strong presence of key market players in this region. Asia Pacific is projected to be the fastest growing regional market segment during the forecast period. In rapidly developing countries such as China and India there is a growing awareness of diseases and other health related issues which, is a major market driver. The region is also seeing a high penetration of the mobile platform as well as digital devices and countries such as Japan are embracing modern digital technology with ease. Europe, due to similar growth patterns as North America is also expected to grow significantly during the forecast period. Over all, the global market is expected grow across all regions with the exception of underdeveloped nation in Africa where there is a low penetration of mobile platforms and digital devices. Latest Industry News: Sutter Health has been seeing success with the enterprise version of Google glasses. The recent adoption of the technology is reportedly already making a positive difference. The devices are embedded with Augmedixs mHealth technology which helps reduce administrative tasks so that physicians can spend more time caring for patients. One of the most popular uses for these glasses is the translation of patient appointments into medical records, this allows for more accurate records and a low margin for human error. To know more About Related Report with Top Companies at https://www.medgadget.com/2018/12/global-m-health-device-market-size-to-enlarge-with-growing-revenue-at-35-03-of-cagr-till-2023-mrfr.html About Market Research Future: At Market Research Future (MRFR), we enable our customers to unravel the complexity of various industries through our Cooked Research Report (CRR), Half-Cooked Research Reports (HCRR), Raw Research Reports (3R), Continuous-Feed Research (CFR), and Market Research & Consulting Services. Contact Market Research Future Office No. 528, Amanora Chambers Magarpatta Road, Hadapsar, Pune 411028 Maharashtra, India +1 646 845 9312 Email: sales@marketresearchfuture.com Three people were fined 5,000 yuan ($740) each by forestry police in the Tibet autonomous region for illegally crossing the Changtang Nature Reserve. Lhapa, head of the natural resources bureau of Amdo county, said management of the reserve would be enhanced by rangers and by putting up more signs to remind people not to break the law. On March 5, Feng Hao, Jin Lu and Li Zhisen, all in their 20s, started out on a bicycle trip through the reserve, Li said on his social media account. After 10 days, Feng, who had no previous experience crossing the reserve, became separated from the others and got lost on the frozen plateau. Li and Jin continued riding and exited the reserve on April 17. The next day, after finding that Feng hadn't gotten out, they called police for help. Four police stations in the Tibet autonomous region sent out officers in a search that lasted 18 days. On Sunday, rescuers found Feng in a remote area under the jurisdiction of Golmud, Qinghai province. He had fallen behind after injuring his knee and could not go fast. After consuming all his food, he ate grass roots for more than a week to stay alive and lost 15 kilograms, Feng told Beijing Youth Daily. Lhapa said illegal crossings can seriously damage natural resources in the reserve, including affecting wild animals' migration patterns or even survival. "In addition, rescuing Feng has wasted a large amount of national public resources," he said. In April 2017, the Forestry Bureau of the Tibet autonomous region announced a strict prohibition on people crossing the Changtang reserve. "Tourists or explorers should obey the laws and regulations and not cross the reserve, to protect one of the largest nature reserves in the world," the bureau said. Changtang Nature Reserve covers about 290,000 square kilometers, and is more than 5,000 meters above sea level. It has many rare species, including the Tibetan antelope, wild yak and lynx. To protect them, Tibet set up 73 ranger stations around the reserve to patrol and manage the area. North America is expected to remain dominant in the global orphan drugs market between 2018 and 2025. This information was found by Fortune Business Insights in a report, titled : Global Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2018-2025. According to the report, the global orphan drugs market was valued at US$ 125000 Mn in 2017 and is anticipated to reach US$ 294000 Mn by 2025. The report also stated that the market will exhibit a remarkable CAGR of 11.4% during the forecast period. As per Fortune Business Insights, the North America orphan drugs market was worth US$ 67,136.0 Mn in 2017 and will continue to rise at a steady pace until 2025. This is mainly ascribable to the rising awareness among people regarding the use of novel drugs. In addition to this, North America is expected to offer attractive growth opportunities on the back of recent FDA approvals on the development of orphan drugs. Governments in North America are increasingly spending on the research and development (R&D) of orphan drugs and technologies. This is further helping the orphan drugs market to grow impressively in this region. Asia Pacific, on the other hand, is anticipated to show a higher rate of growth on account of rising prevalence of rare diseases such as chronic lymphocytic leukemia. Also, the region is expected to offer lucrative growth opportunities as a result of the rapid expansion of healthcare infrastructure. Get Exclusive Sample Copy of Orphan Drugs Market spread across Top 10 Companies Profile and Supported with Tables and Figures is Now Available at https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/enquiry/sample/orphan-drugs-market-100088 Rising Prevalence of Cancer and Related Diseases Fuels Demand for Orphan Drugs The oncology segment is witnessing considerably high demand on account of the rising number of patients suffering from different types of cancers. This also increases the demand for novel therapeutics, which as per the report will bode well for the global orphan drugs market. According to the National Center for Health Statistics, the U.S. is likely to witness around 1,762,450 new cancer cases in 2019. Spurred by these numbers, the demand for orphan drugs is likely to increase in the coming years. Governments are investing heavily to build a strong framework for supporting drug development, thus offering a significant impetus to the orphan drugs market. Furthermore, the return on investment, with regards to orphan drugs, is expected to be higher than non-orphan drugs, which in turn is increasing the demand for orphan drug therapeutics worldwide. People across the world are becoming more aware about the rising prevalence of rare disorders and importance of orphan drugs, stated a lead analyst at Fortune Business insights. This, coupled with robust support from EU and FDA to drug development, drives the orphan drugs market, he added. Several pharma companies are also putting continuous efforts to develop orphan drugs, thus improving creating scope for generating more revenue in the overall global market for orphan drugs. Emergence of New Players to Drive the Orphan Drug Market and Increase Competition The global orphan drugs market is anticipated to pave way for the entry of several new players in the coming years. This is mainly because of the rapid drug development and discovery over the years. Several leading companies are manufacturing orphan drugs to build a nimble and agile framework. Some of the savvy players present in the global orphan drugs market are Actelion Pharmaceuticals Ltd., Biogen, Eli Lilly and Company, Bayer AG, Amgen Inc., and Pfizer Inc. These leading players are likely to give tough competition to the small entrants. Therefore, these small scale companies may need support from governments and other authorities to sustain in the market. Browse Complete Report Details at https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/industry-reports/orphan-drugs-market-100088 The global orphan drugs market can be segmented into the following categories: Global Orphan Drugs Market, by Therapy Area Oncology Blood CNS Endocrine Cardiovascular Respiratory Immunomodulators Others Global Orphan Drugs Market, by Distribution Channels Hospital Pharmacy Retail Pharmacy Online Sales Others Global Orphan Drugs Market, by Region North America S. Canada Europe Germany K. France Italy Spain Scandinavia Rest of Europe Asia Pacific China India Japan Australia Southeast Asia Rest of Asia Pacific Rest of the World Treatment and Medications Associated with Rare Diseases are Expensive, Limiting Growth of Orphan Drugs Market Although the orphan drugs market is growing at a good pace, there are some factors that may hinder its growth. High cost of orphan drugs, insufficient information on rare diseases, and lack of skilled healthcare professionals are factors restricting growth in the global orphan drugs market. In addition to this, rising competition from generic industries may pose a serious threat to the growth of the market. Order Single or Corporate User License Copy at https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/checkout-page/100088 About us: Fortune Business Insights offers expert corporate analysis and accurate data, helping organizations of all sizes make timely decisions. We tailor innovative solutions for our clients, assisting them address challenges distinct to their businesses. Our goal is to empower our clients with holistic market intelligence, giving a granular overview of the market they are operating in. Our reports contain a unique mix of tangible insights and qualitative analysis to help companies achieve sustainable growth. Our team of experienced analysts and consultants use industry-leading research tools and techniques to compile comprehensive market studies, interspersed with relevant data. At Fortune Business Insights we aim at highlighting the most lucrative growth opportunities for our clients. We therefore offer recommendations, making it easier for them to navigate through technological and market-related changes. Our consulting services are designed to help organizations identify hidden opportunities and understand prevailing competitive challenges. Contact us: Fortune Business Insights Pvt. Ltd. 308, Supreme Headquarters, Survey No. 36, Baner, Pune-Bangalore Highway, Pune 411045, Maharashtra, India. Phone: US :+1 424 253 0390 UK : +44 2071 939123 APAC : +91 744 740 1245 Email: sales@fortunebusinessinsights.com by Melynda Fuller , May 8, 2019 released its Q1 2019 revenue report today, focusing intensely on the gains within its digital subscription division. Total revenues for the company increased by 6.1% to $439.1 million this quarter. Subscription revenues also saw an increase of 3.9%. The company credits the surge of subscriptions in the first quarter, in part, to the growth of its digital-only products, which include the news product alongside Crossword and Cooking. Revenue from digital-only products increased by 15.1% to $109.9 million in the first quarter. Paid digital-only subscriptions increased by 223,000 in Q1 2019, now totally 3,583,000, an increase of 28.7% over Q1 2018. Total subscription equal 4.5 million. Of that number, 144,000 came from the companys digital new products, with the rest attributed to the Cooking and Crossword products. advertisement advertisement Advertising revenues declined by .4%. However, digital advertising revenue increased by 18.9%, reflecting growth in direct-sold advertising on the companys digital platforms, including podcasts. Other revenues increased by 55.8%. The Times announced earlier this year it has a goal of reaching 10 million total subscribers by 2025. The company has been building this number up through the development of its digital products. Mark Thompson, president-CEO, The New York Times Company, stated: Subscription revenues made up two-thirds of the Companys revenues and for the first time, digital-only subscription revenue was more than a quarter of total Company revenue. We will continue to invest in our journalism, product and marketing at elevated levels to attract and retain large numbers of new subscribers to The Times. Today, the company launched a new digital product, Parenting, now in beta. The site, headed by Jessica Gross, is intended for new and expecting parents looking for guidance about having and raising children. The Times decided to dedicate more attention to parenting when it discovered readers were interested in reading more on the topic. The site will feature expert guidance from doctors specializing in fertility, pregnancy and pediatrics, mental-health experts and leaders from the finance world. Like our other new products, Cooking and Crosswords, Parenting is a standalone experience not a section of the site. Ultimately, our goal is to turn it into an additional subscription service, stated Alex MacCallum, head of new product and ventures at The Times. by Sara Guaglione , May 8, 2019 Warren Buffetts hometown paper, Omaha World-Herald, has lost a third of its reporters since early 2018. Buffett, the billionaire businessman who delivered newspapers as a teenager, bought the Omaha World-Herald in 2011, according to MarketWatch, which first reported the news. The World-Herald newsroom formed a union last fall. Buffett is bearish on the local media industry, telling Yahoo Finance editor-in-chief Andy Serwer on Saturday: Theyre going to disappear. Over the years, the newspaper ad business has deteriorated, he said. It went from monopoly to franchise to competitive to ... toast. Buffetts company, Berkshire Hathaway, owns 30 daily newspaper and digital operations, as well as 47 paid weekly newspapers and 32 other print products. advertisement advertisement Buffett echoed these sentiments in an interview with CNBC in 2017, when he claimed: There are only two papers in the United States that I think have an assured future because they have a successful Internet model to go with their print mode. Thats The Wall Street Journal and The New York Times, which have built an online presence that people will pay for." Last summer, Berkshire Hathaway made Lee Enterprises the new manager of the Omaha World-Herald. The company owns about 50 local publications. In the MarketWatch op-ed, financial columnist Brett Arends poses the question: If local reporters dont cover the local courts, and City Hall, and zoning board meetings, and the goings-on of the local chamber of commerce, who will? In the past 15 years, 1,800 newspapers have shuttered. About 200 counties have no local newspaper, and roughly half the counties in the country with only one, according to a University of North Carolina study. Another newspaper lost a third of its staff recently, but in one month. The Cleveland Plain Dealer let go of at least 14 people as it moved to outsource production jobs to a subsidiary of Advance Publications, the papers parent company. by Ray Schultz , May 8, 2019 The Bureau of Consumer Financial Protection (BCFP) has proposed rule changes that would allow debt collectors to use text and email to contact late payers. The proposal, designed to update enforcement of the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act of 1977, was released on Monday. The BCFP has set a 90-day comment period, and implementation of the rules would take place in a year. In reflecting the rise of media that did not exist in 1977, the proposal is driving fears that the channels could be used to used to annoy, abuse or harass consumers--indeed, one headline states that the Trump administration seeks to allow collectors to text and email as much as they want. The proposed changes are more nuanced. For one thing, they would allow consumers to opt out of email and text communications and require debt collectors to provide instructions for doing so in each communication. Moreover, they would prohibit the use of a debtors work email address without consent, and prohibit use of email addresses that had previously led to third-party disclosure. advertisement advertisement However, there are no frequency limits being placed on email or text because the BCFP is not aware of evidence demonstrating that debt collectors commonly harass consumers or others through repeated or continuous debt collection contacts by media other than telephone calls. In contrast, the BCFP proposes that telephone calls to a consumer would be restricted to seven within a seven-day period. And if an actual conversation takes place, the debt collector may not call again within seven days. Consumer advocates worry that email and text will swiftly be abused. And they fear that debts will be disclosed to parties other than the debtor, despite the BCFPs protections. Some might also object to the fact that abuses would have to occur by email and text before the BCFP addresses frequency. However, the BCFP notes that Massachusettss debt collection regulations do not limit the frequency of a debt collectors email communications. And in general, email marketers might object to the use of the already challenged medium for enforcement of any type. To some extent, the proposed changes reflect communication practices that are already minimally in place. A consumer survey by the BCFP found that 8% of debtors had been contacted by email, and that 15% prefer email as a method of contact by collectors. The BCFP and debt collectors contend that use of email, at whatever frequency, could reduce the number of phone calls received by consumers. The proposal also attempts to define a new term: limited-contact message. This is a basic message that does not mention the debt. The BCFP states that it would not enable a debt collector to transmit a limited-content message because inclusion of information such as the sender's email address could convey information about a debt. Also, consumers may be unlikely to read or respond to an email containing solely the information included in a limited-content message (e.g., consumers may disregard such an email as spam or a security risk), it states. Debt collectors are required to send validation letters, laying out who they are and that they are trying to collect a debt. These might be sent by email, but courts have ruled that attachment delivery by email does not enjoy the same presumption of success as postal mail. Social channels are not seen as suitable for debt collection since there is a high probability to disclosure to third parties. The BCFP notes that financial-services collections are also governed by the Dodd-Frank Act. by Laurie Sullivan @lauriesullivan, May 8, 2019 Google built new technology to give consumers privacy by doing more with less data over time, with a focus on data processing on-device to make features faster and data more accessible for every type of application, from search to Maps. Sundar Pichai, Google CEO, refers to that technology as on-device learning. He calls it Federated Learning -- a new approach to machine learning, introduced at Googles developer I/O conference. It relies on the same artificial intelligence used to develop Google products, and now the company is applying it to user privacy. Federated Learning does not collect raw data from consumer devices. Rather than sending data to the cloud, Google developers flipped the model and shipped the machine learning model directly on the device, Pichai said during the I/O conference. Each phone computes an update to the global model. Only those updates, not the data, are aggregated and updated to improve the global model. Then the updated global model is sent back to the phones. advertisement advertisement Googles keyboard Gboard, using only on-device learning technology, would not allow it to update its model until many people typed the new words many times. Federated Learning allow Gboard to learn new words like BTS or YOLO after thousands of people use these new words without allowing Google to ever see anything people type. Gboard is using Federated Learning to make next-word predictions across tens of millions of devices, Pichai said. Pichai also introduced incognito in Google Maps, so the places searched in Maps will not link to a users Google account. He also talked about safe browsing to protect 4 billion devices, Tensorflow technology that prevents Phishing in Gmail, and a two-step verification process now available to all Android phones running version 7.0 or higher. by Karlene Lukovitz @KLmarketdaily, May 8, 2019 As part of the launch campaign for its Snapd line of snacks, Kelloggs Cheez-It brand has launched a contest to find a bunker-full of the snacks hidden somewhere in the United States. The hunt ties in with the campaigns overall theme: TV and digital/social ads claim that the new, real cheese snacks are so insanely munchable (the perfect TV-watching snack) that Cheez-It is worried the demand will cause a cheese shortage. A TV/digital ad that launched in mid February has amassed nearly 18 million views to date on YouTube alone. Now, after seeing the snack fly off shelves, we wanted to ensure Cheez-it Snap'd were kept safe for our biggest cheese-loving fans by hiding a supply in the bunker, declared Jeff Delonis, Cheez-Its senior director of marketing, in the contest release. advertisement advertisement The first person to find the bunker (above) will get a year's supply of Snap'd snacks, some of the contents of the bunker (including a giant flat-screen TV) and a years subscription to a streaming service. Clues will begin appearing on Cheez-Its Twitter account starting May 14. The brand is promoting the contest with a video on social media (below) that generated nearly 200,000 views on Twitter alone in the first 24 hours. by Larissa Faw , May 8, 2019 Borden is overhauling the 150-year-old brand's iconic cow logo to make itself relevant in a world full of dairy rivals and newer competitors, like soy and almond milk producers. Borden is partnering with BrandCory on its logo refresh and with Ohio-based Curiosity for its marketing strategy. The campaign's centerpiece is the more modern look for brand's "spokescow" Elsie. Over the years, Borden flittered between prominently showcasing Elsie as well as placing her on the backburner in favor of more famous faces. Ten years ago, to that end, Selena Gomez served as the brand spokesperson and ambassador. Our research showed that Elsie represents pure joy and optimism for American families, which we are harnessing as key drivers in all marketing initiatives in 2019, said Joe DePetrillo, Chief Marketing Officer, Borden. (More detail can be found here.) advertisement advertisement Elsies new appearance can be seen across the companys marketing channels and will be on product packaging in dairy aisles throughout the southeastern U.S. this summer. The cows reintroduction will also be supported with a new marketing campaign promoting the tagline Glass Half-Full Since 1857" designed to highlight the pure joy and optimism of Borden products. DePetrillo explains his key challenge is to balance the brand's legacy while staying relevant to today's consumers. The Borden brand still holds a lot of equity, he says. Elsie remains a beloved and iconic representation of this proud heritage with people of all generations. For these reasons, we wanted our brand refresh to be evolutionary in nature rather than revolutionary." This refresh follows Borden's a change in control to private equity shop ACON Investment in 2017. The firm installed a new leadership team. Since taking the helm at Borden in March 2018, CEO Tony Sarsam has selected his executive team, reorganized the marketing and sales functions, and added a research and development team. Antibiotic-resistant bacteria can cause infections that are very difficult to treat, and they may sometimes put a persons life in danger. However, a creative new approach may offer a potent weapon against these superbugs. Share on Pinterest Bacteriophages (depicted above) are viruses that can infect and destroy bacteria. Could they hold the answer to antibiotic resistance? The recent publication of several scientific reports suggesting that many bacterial strands are developing resistance to antibiotics points to the emergence of a global crisis . As more and more dangerous bacteria become unresponsive to strong antibiotics, researchers have started looking for alternative means of fighting these superbugs. Recent studies have investigated the usefulness of some surprising therapies against antibiotic-resistant bacteria, including using a specific bacterium that lives in Irish soil and experimenting with new drug combinations . Now, researchers at the University of Pittsburgh in Pennsylvania and the Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) in Chevy Chase, MD, provide evidence that a different approach can offer an effective way of fighting off dangerous bacterial infections. Prof. Graham Hatfull, who works at the University of Pittsburgh and at the HHMI, and his team have been studying a type of biological infectious agent called bacteriophages, or simply phages. Bacteriophages a name that literally means bacteria-eating are viruses that target, infect, and destroy different strains of bacteria. Previous research co-authored by Prof. Hatfull suggests that there are an estimated 1031 bacteriophage particles on the planet. Different phages target different bacterial strains, however. For this reason, identifying which agent matches which bacterium can be challenging trial and error task. Reviving an old idea Using bacteriophages to fight off infections, an approach called phage therapy, is by no means a new idea. In fact, this notion has been on researchers radars for close to 100 years. British, French, and Russian scientists were already experimenting with phages in a clinical setting at the beginning of the 20th century. However, scholars explain that the initial enthusiasm regarding the potential of phage therapy fell flat for many years. This was, in part, due to the limited knowledge and scientific resources available to researchers at that time. Now, though, the interest in phage research may be reemerging in full force thanks to one recent therapeutic success. Prof. Hatfull and team explain in a study paper that appears in the journal Nature Medicine that, by using carefully selected phages, they were able to treat a severe infection experienced by a 15-year-old patient with a complex medical history. The patient had cystic fibrosis, an incurable genetic condition that causes a buildup of thick mucus, especially though not only in the lungs. This, in turn, leads to susceptibility to infections. In 2017, they presented at Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH) in London, United Kingdom, to undergo a double lung transplant. However, not long after the procedure, the patients doctors noticed that the surgery wound looked red and raw, that they had a liver infection, and that several nodules had formed on their body. Those nodules contained bacteria that were trying to surface through the skin. Using viruses to attack bacteria The scientists collaborated with the doctors at GOSH to look for bacteriophages that would attack the specific bacterial strains infecting the 15-year-old patient in question as well as another young person with cystic fibrosis. The other patient had also undergone a double lung transplant and had a severe infection. The researchers responded to the doctors appeals; the two young patients did not respond to any of the antibiotics they received. These infections, the researchers note, were not new; the patients had first developed them many years before but had kept them under control until their surgeries, when they flared up dangerously. These bugs didnt respond to antibiotics. Theyre highly drug-resistant strains of bacteria, says Prof. Hatfull. So, he explains, the scientists decided to try [using] bacteriophages as antibiotics as something we could use to kill bacteria that cause infection. Prof. Hatfulls main interests are the study of phages and the treatment of tuberculosis (TB), which is a bacterial infection that mainly settles in the lungs. His London-based colleagues got in touch because, as it happened, both of their young patients had infections caused by strains of Mycobacterium, which is also involved in TB. The doctors sent Prof. Hatfull samples of the bacterial strains responsible for the patients infections so that he and his collaborators could identify which phages would be able to attack and destroy them. Within a few months, they found the set of phages that could match the bacteria infecting one of the patients. However, this initial discovery came too late; the patient had died earlier that same month. Diabetic ketoacidosis is a life-threatening complication of diabetes that occurs when the body breaks down fats too quickly. Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) occurs in people with diabetes when the body does not make or receive enough insulin. In this article, learn about the causes and symptoms of DKA as well as the risk factors and treatment options. What is diabetic ketoacidosis? Share on Pinterest DKA occurs when a persons body produces high levels of ketones. DKA is a potentially life-threatening complication of diabetes that occurs when the body begins to break down fats for energy instead of sugars. In people without diabetes, insulin helps sugar enter the cells, which use it for fuel. A person with diabetes does not make enough insulin to properly transport the sugar, which means that their body cannot use it for energy. Without enough sugar, the liver turns some of the fat in the body into acids called ketones. Ketones build up in the bloodstream and spill over into the urine. When these excess ketones get into the blood, the blood becomes acidic, causing DKA. DKA is a medical emergency. Anyone living with diabetes needs to learn the signs and symptoms of DKA to know when to seek urgent medical treatment. DKA in type 1 vs. type 2 diabetes DKA is much more likely to occur in people with type 1 diabetes, but anyone with type 1 or type 2 diabetes can develop it. Those who need to take insulin have a more severe form of diabetes and, therefore, will have a higher risk of DKA. People with type 2 diabetes who may be prone to ketosis include : older people people who are overweight people from nonwhite ethnic groups Symptoms Diabetic ketoacidosis symptoms often start suddenly and can include: excessive thirst nausea vomiting frequent urination abdominal pain and discomfort rapid breathing a flushed face fatigue weakness confusion fruity smelling breath dry mouth and skin People with diabetes who monitor their blood sugar regularly may also find that their blood sugar readings have become very high. For others, the symptoms of DKA may be the first indication of diabetes, which may lead to a diagnosis. Causes Share on Pinterest Some medications may trigger DKA. Very high blood sugar levels and low levels of insulin cause diabetic ketoacidosis. Either illness or a problem with insulin therapy can put a person at risk of having high blood sugar or low insulin, even with regular diabetes treatment. Illness and infection alter the production of some of the bodys hormones, such as cortisol and epinephrine. These hormones change how insulin works in the body and can reduce its effectiveness, which some people may need to counter by taking extra insulin while they are unwell. Problems with prescribed insulin therapy can also cause DKA. Some issues with insulin therapy that may trigger DKA include: missing an insulin shot a clogged insulin pump not using the correct insulin dosage Other triggers for DKA can include: a heart attack a stroke physical trauma, such as a car accident emotional stress drug or alcohol misuse certain medications People with type 1 diabetes or those who frequently miss insulin doses have the highest risk of developing DKA. Some diabetes medications may increase the risk of DKA even when the blood sugar is not high. Treatment When treating diabetic ketoacidosis, doctors aim to normalize blood sugar levels. They may prescribe the following treatments: intravenous (IV) fluid replacements IV insulin drip until blood sugar levels drop to within an acceptable range IV electrolyte replacements The treatment for DKA can sometimes cause complications. Possible complications include: hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, from insulin rapidly entering the body hypokalemia, or low potassium levels, from fast fluid replacement cerebral edema, or swelling in the brain, as a result of changing the blood sugar levels too quickly Due to the risk of these complications, doctors will closely monitor people with DKA in the hospital. Prevention Share on Pinterest Regularly checking blood sugar can help prevent DKA. A person with diabetes can take many steps to prevent diabetic ketoacidosis. Preventing DKA usually centers on learning how to manage diabetes well. Preventive steps include: routinely testing the blood sugar to make sure that it is not getting too high taking oral and injected diabetes medication according to the prescription asking a doctor about adjusting insulin dosage if necessary, particularly if blood sugar is high checking ketone levels in the urine when ill or after an injury Anyone who suspects that they may have DKA should be prepared to act quickly and seek emergency medical treatment. Advertisement A total of 8,485 cases of newly diagnosed cancer were identified. Men and women with diabetes had 34 percent and 62 percent higher risks of developing cancer than men and women in the general population, respectively.Among males, the highest risk was for prostate cancer: diabetes was linked with an 86 higher risk for this malignancy. Diabetes was also linked with higher risks of leukemia, skin cancer, thyroid cancer, lymphoma, kidney cancer, liver cancer, pancreatic cancer, lung cancer, colorectal cancer, and stomach cancer. A significant decreased risk was noted for esophageal cancer.In women, the highest risk was for nasopharynx cancer: diabetes was linked with a greater than twofold higher risk for this malignancy. Diabetes was also linked with higher risks of liver cancer, esophageal cancer, thyroid cancer, lung cancer, pancreatic cancer, lymphoma, uterine cancer, colorectal cancer, leukemia, breast cancer, cervical cancer, and stomach cancer. In contrast, there was significant decreased risk for gallbladder cancer."The Shanghai Hospital Link Center has collected clinical information from the main general and specialized hospitals and created a centralized data repository for all residents in Shanghai since 2013. Based on this database, our research could be carried out smoothly and efficiently," said co-author Dr. Bin Cui, of the Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, in China. He and his co-authors recommend establishing strategies for cancer-specific screening and prevention among patients with type 2 diabetes.Source: Eurekalert Guo Weimin: Ladies and gentlemen, friends from the media, good morning. Welcome to this press conference. The Conference on Dialogue of Asian Civilizations (CDAC) is to convene soon and has drawn great attention from Chinese and foreign media. Today, we hold this press conference to brief you on the CDAC. Present at this conference are: Xu Lin, deputy head of the Publicity Department of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, minister of the State Council Information Office (SCIO) and vice president of the CDAC organizing committee and executive committee; Kong Xuanyou, vice minister of foreign affairs; Zhang Xu, vice minister of culture and tourism; and Du Feijin, a member of the Standing Committee of the CPC Beijing Committee and head of the Publicity Department of the CPC Beijing Committee. They are all vice presidents of the CDAC executive committee, and I'm honored to be a vice president too. Mr. Xu will offer an introduction first, and then the four gentlemen will answer some of your questions. Now I'll give the floor to Mr. Xu. Xu Lin: Good morning, ladies and gentlemen. The Conference on Dialogue of Asian Civilizations (CDAC) will be held in Beijing on May 15. First of all, on behalf of the preparatory committee of the CDAC, I would like to welcome all our friends to today's press conference and express my heartfelt thanks to all those who care about and support the CDAC. In recent years, President Xi Jinping, in his attempts to build a beautiful world and a community with a shared future for mankind, has put forward a series of important ideas and expositions on strengthening exchanges and mutual learning among different civilizations, which have produced positive responses from the international community. At the Conference on Interaction and Confidence Building Measures in Asia, held in Shanghai in 2014 and the 2015 Boao Forum for Asia, President Xi Jinping twice advocated for the convening of the CDAC, and received positive responses from the participating countries. Since then, China has carried out multi-level and interdisciplinary dialogues and cultural exchanges with the relevant countries in Asia and around the world, creating good conditions for holding the CDAC. The convening of the CDAC implements President Xi Jinping's initiative. It also further promotes exchanges and mutual learning among civilizations in Asia and the rest of the world, and encourages us to achieve common progress. The Chinese government attaches great importance to the CDAC. President Xi Jinping will attend the opening ceremony of the CDAC, deliver a keynote speech, and attend relevant activities. The Conference on Dialogue of Asian Civilizations is another important diplomatic event following the Second Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation and Beijing International Horticultural Exhibition. It will be a landmark international event. I would like to summarize the conference with the ensuing five points: First, the theme is clear. The theme of the conference is "Exchanges and Mutual Learning among Asian Civilizations and a Community with a Shared Future", which reflects important philosophies articulated by Chinese President Xi Jinping. These include exchanges and mutual learning among civilizations, the establishment of an Asian community with a shared future and building of a shared future for mankind. The conference not only reflects the general hopes and wishes from Asian countries but also those of the entire world. The activities of the conference are designed and developed around this theme. Second, the response has been enthusiastic. More than 2,000 people, including government officials from 47 countries in Asia as well as from outside the region, plus representatives from the fields of culture, education, film and television, think tanks, media and tourism, will attend the opening ceremony and sub-forums. Entertainers, artists and people of all walks of life from Asian countries and other countries in the world will participate in Asian Culture Carnival, Asian Civilization Week and other events. The conference organizers also invited leaders of Cambodia, Greece, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Armenia and Mongolia, as well as officials from UNESCO and other international organizations to attend the conference. Third, the conference boasts diversified events, including the opening ceremony, sub-forums, Asian Culture Carnival and Asian Civilization Week. Leaders from China and foreign countries, as well as heads of international organizations who participate in the conference, will share and explore ideas through exchange and mutual learning among Asian civilizations. In additional, the conference has six parallel sub-forums, inviting government officials, experts and scholars, and those engaged in particular fields to join discussions. A grand Asian Culture Carnival will be held, with more than 30,000 people from home and abroad expected to attend. In order to showcase diversified Asian civilizations, Asian Civilization Week will be held, including events like Asian Civilization Parade, Asian Culture Festival, Asian Culture and Tourism Exhibition, Asian Film and TV Week, and a Joint Exhibition of Asian Civilizations. Meanwhile, an Asian Cuisine Festival will be held simultaneously in the cities of Beijing, Hangzhou, Guangzhou and Chengdu. Fourth, we will provide an effective guarantee. This year's conference has a large number of participants and a long duration. We are striving to create a first-class conference environment and provide warm and thoughtful services to all participants. At present, the official website of the conference has been officially launched and all kinds of important information related to the conference will be published on that site. Beijing has recruited more than 3,700 volunteers to provide services to participants. At present, more than 2,800 Chinese and foreign journalists have signed up for the conference. The conference has set up a news center and will hold a series of news release activities to provide services for journalists. Fifth, the conference is expected to achieve a fruitful outcome. Some documents will be issued based on the major consensus reached during the conference, which will showcase the fruitful outcomes of the conference, and present a bright and prosperous future of the exchanges and mutual learning among Asian civilizations and other civilizations in the world. At the same time, a series of multilateral and bilateral initiatives and agreements will be signed in various fields, such as media, think tanks, tourism, films and television, cultural heritage protection, etc. The results of some major projects and research reports will be announced during the conference. Concrete measures will be proposed to implement the conference outcomes and advance exchanges and mutual learning among civilizations. President Xi Jinping said that our civilizations have become richer and more colorful through exchanges and mutual learning. We believe the CDAC will present a rich and colorful display of Asia's civilizations to the world. We will warmly welcome guests from all over the world. On behalf of the conference's organizing committee, I would like to sincerely invite you, friends from the press, to cover the grand event, spread the beauty of civilizations, and join our efforts in making the conference a success. Now, my colleagues and I are ready to take your questions. Thank you. So, Game of Thrones season 8's episode 4 aired earlier this week, and it quickly went viral because of the Starbucks goof-up. In case you've been living under a rock, this week's GoT episode had a coffee cup in one of the scenes. Yes, there was a coffee cup in front of Daenerys Targaryen during the post-battle celebrations. It's hilarious. While the HBO folks updated the episode by removing the coffee cup, it looks like the coffee chain made $2.3 billion worth of free advertising. Reuters According to CNBC, Starbucks received an estimated $2.3 billion in free advertising in the days before it was updated. That's a lot of money for a production goof-up, isn't it? Stacy Jones, CEO of marketing company Hollywood Branded, told CNBC that Starbucks got 10,627 mentions online, on TV and on the radio. But do you know what's the most hilarious part? Well, it wasn't even a Starbucks coffee cup. Yes, it's not the brand's iconic green siren on the cup. It was a coffee cup from the production's craft services. What? This coffee cup goof-up, by the way, isn't the only mistake we've spotted on the GoT episode over the years. You can check out the list of all the mistakes on GoT episodes here. If something could have the most accurate meaning of a name, Cyclone Fani would top the list. Meaning the hood of the snake, Fani leaves behind its sting on everything it touches, even days after it passes. The fearsome cyclone hit Odisha last week, at a speed as high as 200 kmph and unleashed utter havoc on life and property in the state. Close to 1.4 crore people have been affected by the deadly cyclone that has plunged the state into darkness and uncertainty, owing to lack of food and electricity, damaged hospitals, dysfunctional ATM machines and much more. Twitter Even days after nature's harsh assault, Odisha is finding it difficult to get back on its feet amidst the many challenges it faces in the days ahead. However, during such trying moments, help is pouring in from all quarters for Odisha and its people. From the Central Government declaring an additional assistance of Rs 1000 crore, to NGOs, state governments, celebrities and politicians stepping forward to help, things are beginning to look slightly better for the battered state of Odisha. During such a time of trial, These people are helping Odisha rise again. 1. Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik Twitter CM Patnaik declared that he shall be donating a year's worth of salary to the Chief Minister's Relief Fund to rebuild Odisha once again. 2. Akshay Kumar Actor Akshay Kumar contributed 1 crore to the CM's relief fund for Odisha! #AkshayKumar pic.twitter.com/C4wwJBdV59 CHOWKIDAAR KAUSHIK PRASAD (@kaushik_2212) May 7, 2019 As per reports, Akshay Kumar has donated Rs 1 crore to the Odisha Chief Minister's Relief Fund. 3. Dalai Lama Thank you @DalaiLama for your gratuitous blessings and solidarity with the people of #Odisha during this calamity. pic.twitter.com/1we0eFMtER Naveen Patnaik (@Naveen_Odisha) May 6, 2019 Dalai Lama has also extended a donation of Rs 10 lakh from the Dalai Lama Trust towards the cause of rebuilding Odisha. He also sent a message to Odisha CM Patnaik stating that, As a mark of solidarity, I am donating Rs 1000000 from the Dalai Lama trust to the efforts to provide relief and rebuilt. 4. Dharmendra Pradhan Twitter Union Minister of Petroleum & Natural Gas and Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, Dharmendra Pradhan has also donated his one month's salary towards the cause. 5. Khalsa Aid Cyclone Fani (Odisha): @Khalsa_Aid team is in Puri preparing fresh hot meals for the victims of cyclone Fani. The local Gurudwara Sahib along with local volunteers are assisting our team in the preparations. #khalsaaid #sewa #Odisha #cyclonefani @AkbaruddinIndia @arrahman pic.twitter.com/YIL5ocqW8e Amarpreet Singh (@amarpreet1313) May 6, 2019 Always present in times of need, Khalsa Aid once again proved that humanity is the biggest religion. The Khalsa Aid volunteers in Odisha have been serving langar to all the affected people. 6. State Governments Getty Images Sources have claimed that the government of Tamil Nadu and Uttar Pradesh have donated Rs 10 crores each, while the Chhattisgarh and Uttarakhand government have donated Rs 11 crore and Rs 5 crore respectively. 7. Hyundai Motors Twitter Hyundai Motors India announced that they have set up an emergency road assistance for its customers whose cars have been affected by Cyclone Fani in Odisha and West Bengal. 40 technicians have been deployed to work 24x7 and 15 Emergency RSA vehicles have been prepared. 8. Young Odisha Sisters Two little girl Manisarani Padhan and Lipsarani Padhan of Bausenmora reading in Class III & Class IX respectively donated Rs 10,000 from their piggy bank to CMRF. Proud of them.@CMO_Odisha @SRC_Odisha pic.twitter.com/MT7QwrJDLr Collector Bargarh (@DMBargarh) May 6, 2019 Two young girls, sisters Manisha Rani Pradhan and Lipsa Rani Pradhan from Bausenmura in Odisha broke their piggy bank and donated Rs 10,000 to the Chief Minister's Relief Fund. 9. Adani Ports & ICICI Bank Adani Ports In order to aid Odisha's efforts of restoration post-Cyclone Fani, Adani Ports and ICICI Bank have donated Rs. 25 crore and Rs. 10 crore respectively, to the Chief Minister's Relief Fund. 10. Odisha Fire Service Odisha Fire Service supplied drinking water to people in Bhubaneswar. This was the first time such a relief operation was carried out by the Fire Service. #CycloneFani (7.5.19) pic.twitter.com/1sK4ft7fKE ANI (@ANI) May 7, 2019 With lack of food and clean drinking water being a major concern in the state right now, the Odisha Fire Service personnel have stepped forward to supply clean drinking water to those in need. HELLENIC REPUBLIC MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS Alternate Minister of Foreign Affairs Alternate Minister of Foreign Affairs Sia Anagnostopoulous interview to the French daily L Humanite and journalist Rosa Moussaoui has been posted online with the title: Austerity is breeding the rise of the extreme right. Sia Anagnostopoulou is the [Greek] Alternate Minister of Foreign Affairs, responsible for European Affairs. For SYRIZA, the challenge of the European elections is to form a progressive front. JOURNALIST: The signing of the Prespa Agreement between Athens and Skopje for the name of Macedonia led to demonstrations that were headed by the right and the extreme right. Does this signal a preamble to a permanent re-emergence of the nationalist side? S. ANAGNOSTOPOULOU: The Prespa Agreement is an event of major importance for Greece and the wider area. It is the first time in decades that two Balkan countries decided to resolve their differences peacefully. There is a nationalist movement in Greece. As for its political weight as we speak? I hope it is limited. The European elections will tell. The problem is that the right wing has assimilated a part of this nationalist movement. Hence, the use of these reactions rejecting the Prespa Agreement by New Democracy in an effort to draw electoral gains. However, it seems to me that the Greek people are ready to accept this compromise. JOURNALIST: In 2016, the Greeks welcomed the refugees from the Middle East with open arms. But they feel that Europe has left them to fend for their own in this crisis. Doesnt this enrich the arsenal of the right and the extreme right? S. ANAGNOSTOPOULOU: It was fortunate that this refugee inflow happened in 2015 and 2016, when the country was ruled by a left-wing government, determined to encourage and promote hospitality and solidarity towards the refugees, in a society traumatised by the economic crisis and austerity. The risk of nationalism and racism rising was high. The opposite happened, though. Naturally, the lack of solidarity on the part of Europe has bred feelings of disappointment and bitterness within the Greek society. The Greeks were under the impression that they bore a collective responsibility all on their own. JOURNALIST: Greece has officially exited the memoranda. However, the creditors are continuing to exert pressure. Is there a political process that will free the country from their demands for austerity in the future? S. ANAGNOSTOPOULOU: Of course, some limitations are still in place. They are quite severe in the case of Greece, but they are also in place in other eurozone countries, starting with France. For the grip to loosen, the balance of political powers in Brussels must be reversed. Austerity, as a key element of European policies, does not work. It only causes the rise of the extreme right. The key message of these European elections is to build a progressive front, capable of tearing apart these policies. Today marks the 69th anniversary from the day that Robert Schuman made his historic speech, laying the cornerstone for the creation of Europe. In addition, this is the 74th anniversary of the great victory of peoples against fascism. Seventy-four years from the end of World War II in Europe, out of the rubble of which hope was born, a vision, as well as the urgent need for bringing together the peoples of Europe. The path opened back then by the great visionaries of the European idea, laid the foundations for solidarity and dialogue as the form of cooperation, led to the creation of the most successful model for peaceful co-existence among countries in the history of humanity: European unification. A process which contributed to the consolidation of Democracy, the rule of law, and the protection of personal freedoms and rights, as pillars of present-day European political culture. The European social model, a great historic acquis of ours, today finds itself in a state of existential crisis and doubt. Austerity policies undermine the advances of the past, and inequalities are becoming explosive in the interior, as well as among, countries. The very values of European Democracy are being challenged. This does not simply pertain to a difficult decade of protracted economic and financial crisis, a surge of refugee and migrant flows, terrorist threats. The lack of political legitimacy reflects deeper and structural social and democratic shortcomings of European integration. For this reason, the upcoming elections represent an existential challenge of historic dimensions for Europe. Two differing world views facing off for its future, as well as for the future of our societies. On the one hand, a Europe of open societies, rights, and freedoms; and on the other, an unusual pairing of liberalism and nationalism, which threatens to let our continent slip back to its dark past. On its part, Greece embodies and promotes the European Idea in its social and democratic dimension. The Prespa Agreement once again proved our countrys unwavering commitment to the European prospects of Southeast Europe, in order for our neighbourhood to become a region of peaceful cooperation and co-existence. For the peoples of the Balkans, the path towards Europe is a one-way street. It is the path towards stability, prosperous societies, and consolidation of democratic institutions. The European Elections can represent the beginning of a new trajectory. For a Europe of peoples, of the many, without inequalities in its interior, and without alienating its citizens for the benefit of reviving the nationalism that had such disastrous results for our continent during the 20th century; and able, indeed, to undertake its obligations and role on the world stage, collectively and effectively protecting its external borders, its 66 thousand kilometres of coastline, as well as the rights of its member-states in a volatile international environment. Europe can emerge even more empowered, both socially and democratically, with enhanced social rights, in order to become not just as an area of peace, but an area of prosperity for its peoples. JOURNALIST: Paying us a visit on the first day of the week is Minister of Foreign Affairs Giorgos Katrougalos. Minister, thank you for being with us today. Indeed, during a crucial period for foreign affairs on the whole, and the situation in the region, there is a great deal of activity. G. KATROUGALOS: Good morning. Wishing you a wonderful week. Thank you for the invitation. There is activity, but the situation is completely under control, something which proves how well-planned Greek diplomacy was, as well as all the actions we have taken to date. JOURNALIST: First question: What does Ankara seek by sending the Fatih within Cyprus continental shelf? G. KATROUGALOS: We have two constants in Greek-Turkish relations in general, and more specifically with regard to the Law of the Sea. We are a power that supports International Law. Turkey is a revisionist power which sought to create grey zones through displays of power, which it continues to do. Turkey is attempting to react to the significant progress made in the Eastern Mediterranean with regard to the promotion, through the Law of the Sea, of the delineation of exclusive economic zones, of cooperation between countries, with the chief example being the EASTMED pipeline. It is attempting, through these actions, to create distractions, and it is failing, and I believe that with these actions it is further accentuating its isolation. Something we are not happy about, because we want to have dialogue with Turkey. JOURNALIST: We will get to that. What will happen if they proceed with drilling? Within the Cypriot EEZ? G. KATROUGALOS: These actions are symbolic. They are not able to proceed with substantial drilling alone. Their efforts were intended to send the message that we are here too. They are saying, We are not excluded from the energy equation in the Eastern Mediterranean. And they chiefly want to challenge the legal acquis of the Republic of Cyprus, with the concession of its plots of land for economic development to large multinational companies. Why do I speak about symbolism? Just look at the Barbaros. It's a flag. It is a ship that has been painted bright red, which goes wherever it does, not for financial gain, but to add weight, as I told you, to this political message on the part of Turkey that International Law is not important; what is important is that we are here. JOURNALIST: Yes, but the Fatih is also capable of drilling. G. KATROUGALOS: It is capable of drilling, but again the goal is not for the Fatih to proceed with actual surveys, as the large multinational companies are doing, because quite simply the necessary technical know-how does not exist, and neither does the intention. Why do I say that this effort is failing? Because you create grey zones when you create various things, when you make the other side - in other words us and the Republic of Cyprus - come and talk with you. Either the others on the international stage accept it or, in any case, there is something there that must be discussed. But what did we see in this case? That the European Union speaks of illegal actions and calls upon Turkey to stop in the most absolute manner. Likewise, you have the recent statement by the Representative of the State Department, just like everyone else who has spoken, either countries in the region or large international players. This shows failure and isolation. Not only is a grey zone not created, but no question is raised as to the Republic of Cyprus sovereign right. Rather, these actions are denounced as downright illegal or, as the State Department said in a recent statement, the United States Department of State, as extremely provocative. JOURNALIST: It is often heard that Turkey would like co-exploitation of the Aegean. It was one of their goals. And indeed, certain times Athens was accused of leaving open channels for something like this. G. KATROUGALOS: Never. None of the Greek parties, none of the Greek governments have set co-exploitation as a goal, without conditions having preceded for laying down the rights that each country possesses based on the Law of the Sea; in other words, for exclusive economic zones to be delineated, for the borders of the continental shelf to be defined. Beyond that, when these things have been done, I reiterate, based on the Law of the Sea, not on the basis of displays of power, everything is possible. For example, Cyprus is discussing co-exploitation with Lebanon for the deposits that may exist within the two exclusive economic zones. But the problem with Turkey is different. It has to do with the fact that it does not accept the Law of the Sea as a basis for talks, which is the sole sphere in which one can hold talks, not because it protects our national interests, which it does protect, but because bilateral relations cannot exist which are not based on International Law. JOURNALIST: There is also a feeling that challenging the fact that the continental shelves of Greece and Cyprus meet creates legal difficulties for Athens. G. KATROUGALOS: This is one of the issues that we have consistently sought to resolve through dialogue, and on the basis of International Law. Turkey recently submitted a document to the United Nations of a note verbale whereby it claims, as it has always claimed, that it has exclusive rights east of the 28th meridian. We responded the way we should have, and it is precisely this well-planned diplomatic move on our part, which is not published in the newspapers, and rightly so, that led to us having this barrage of communications condemning Turkey's provocative actions. In other words, it has become clear, in the international community, as to who is right. The great upgrading of our countrys international position recently has also played its own role. Everyone sees us as a factor of stability, and Turkey as a factor of destabilisation. And all this contributes in all these moves on the part of Turkey truly amounting to nothing and having a boomerang effect in the end. JOURNALIST: Is the Blue Homeland a threat to Greece? G. KATROUGALOS: As it is disseminated in certain circles nationalistically, in other words as a challenge to our sovereign rights, it clearly is. But, as you know, we do not seek anything, but neither are we ready to give anything up. We want Turkey as an interlocutor. We are the sole country - if not the sole, one of the last ones - that supports its European prospects. We are not pleased by its isolation. But I repeat, the framework within which we can hold talks with Turkey is the framework of International Law; and specifically as regards issues of marine exploitation of our economic resources, it is the Law of the Sea. JOURNALIST: Grey zones in the Aegean? G. KATROUGALOS: Precisely therein lies Turkey's great failure. It is trying to create grey zones, but it has not found at the moment... JOURNALIST: In Imia, it succeeded. G. KATROUGALOS: We need to differentiate the situation today with the situation in Imia. In March 2018, the European Union, at the highest level, at the level of Heads of State, spoke of illegal actions on the part of Turkey as regards the Aegean and warned it not to continue. If we compare this statement of March 2018 with the corresponding one by the European Union when the episode took place in Imia, which was just about a statement of equal distances, we can see the great progress that Greek diplomacy has made during this time. At the moment, any effort for new grey zones to be created in the Aegean, or the Eastern Mediterranean, fails, precisely because we have achieved a diplomatic victory against our neighbour. JOURNALIST: Let me ask you, does a great deal of illegal activity exist at the same time that the challenges in Cyprus and the Aegean exist? The information shows it. The list that you gave to US Senator Menendez shows it. How will talks on the confidence-building measures continue at the same time? Are you optimistic? G. KATROUGALOS: This illegal activity is part of the effort for what Turkey considers to be grey zones to be created or maintained. But I told you earlier that it fails altogether, to the extent that these actions are denounced as illegal and provocative. You do not create grey zones when the entire international community denounces these actions as illegal. On the other hand, these actions create tension, create costs for our war machine, for our armed forces and, for this reason, they must be approached as problems for the Aegean. This is the significance of the talks on confidence-building measures. Precisely because we consider political dialogue to be the sole method of resolving problems, we shall continue, even if the other side does not always respond in the same manner. JOURNALIST: What can the confidence-building measures include, beyond what was decided by Papoulias-Yilmaz? G. KATROUGALOS: Papoulias-Yilmaz had a moratorium, had agreed to a moratorium on exercises during vacation periods. JOURNALIST: And holiday periods, I believe. G. KATROUGALOS: And holiday periods. This is one of the first issues, to have a full record and for both sides to agree as to what has taken place in the past as well as how it is implemented, because it is often challenged by Turkey, also with regard to the existing confidence-building measures. Therefore, we shall not abandon the effort for political dialogue, or for the present-day confidence-building measures to be recorded and, if it appears that others exist, naturally we can agree. JOURNALIST: For these to be added. G. KATROUGALOS: To be added, but the significant thing is for the existing ones to be implemented. JOURNALIST: Do you have any upcoming meetings with your Turkish counterpart? G. KATROUGALOS: I have spoken, between the contacts, with Mr. Cavusoglu. He has stated.... JOURNALIST: You mean on the phone? G. KATROUGALOS: On the phone. He has stated his intention to visit Athens, but this will have to take place at a time when his visit will promote Greek-Turkish relations. This clearly presupposes a lack of provocative actions. JOURNALIST: You are saying that a lack of provocative actions is the condition for his visit to Athens to take place? G. KATROUGALOS: In order for it to be a successful meeting, a positive climate must exist, and a well-founded expectation that we will further promote our relations. JOURNALIST: The governing council... G. KATROUGALOS: The National Council. JOURNALIST: No. The High-Level Cooperation Council between Greece and Turkey with Tsipras-Erdogan, which was decided to take place after the meeting you had in Turkey, when do you see it happening? Can it take place in 2019? G. KATROUGALOS: It remains among our goals to conduct this Council with Turkey, but on the condition that... JOURNALIST: In Thessaloniki? G. KATROUGALOS: The agreement was for it to be held in Thessaloniki. I reiterate, provided that there is a reduction in the provocative actions by the other side. Before that, we have an economic forum in Istanbul. We are considering, in other words, with soft policy measures, to be able to... JOURNALIST: An economic forum during the summer? Or in the beginning of autumn? G. KATROUGALOS: Everything depends on how the fronts develop that we have with Turkey. I reiterate that we always want Turkey to be a neighbour with whom we can have friendly relations. We dont have anything more to split than what International Law can... JOURNALIST: Every time, at the High-Level Cooperation Councils, the Izmir-Thessaloniki link is decided upon. And we see that there is a delay. G. KATROUGALOS: Those things are progressing. For example, we may really have new ferry links this summer. JOURNALIST: A question which I think is very serious, because it is strategic: will Turkey remain in the West, in your opinion? G. KATROUGALOS: That is one of the great questions of our time. And one of the reasons that the international role of our country in the region has been upgraded. But it is one of the reasons, not the main one; the main reason for the upgrade is the general acknowledgement of the stabilising role that our country plays in the Eastern Mediterranean. The Prespa Agreement, in the Balkans, is one of these examples. Our stance with regard to the issue of immigration is a second example. Otherwise, how could the Pope say the things he said, acknowledging the great contribution of the Prime Minister and of the country? JOURNALIST: He is going to Skopje. G. KATROUGALOS: He is going to Skopje. But the trilateral cooperation schemes we developed in the Aegean are also an example of the upgrading of our role. JOURNALIST: I shall ask you about this, because there are those who say that you have made Greece an outpost of the United States - the Communist Party of Greece mainly says it - and that this is why the countrys role was upgraded. G. KATROUGALOS: But the trilateral relations we have developed are not solely with Israel; they are also with Egypt, with Jordan, with Lebanon, and with Palestine. We expect President Abbas to visit Athens in the coming weeks. Consequently, these are the characteristics of the balance in our policy. JOURNALIST: Thus, your opinion is that Turkey will remain in the West? Does Greece want this? G. KATROUGALOS: Greece does not want Turkey to abandon its international alliances and to become even more hostile and provocative towards us. It is precisely for this reason that we favour Turkey's European prospects. Therefore, we seek to stress our own stabilising role in response to Turkey's wavering. Under no circumstances, though, would we want to push Turkey into a role that is hostile towards the European Union or Greece. JOURNALIST: Do you agree with what Weber says, that the Turkey's prospects for accession are over? That there is no issue of accession and that a new customs union must simply be discussed? Here, Mr. George Kyrtsos adopted this as well. G. KATROUGALOS: Yes, I had not doubt. This is the Right's extreme view of Europe - I am not saying the Far Right, the deep Right's extreme view of Europe - which does not take into consideration the geostrategic stakes, and not only does it not reflect the views of this deep Right on European-Turkish relations, but also its more general stance on issues of globalization, this return to a golden nationalistic past that never truly existed. But all the responsible European powers, and all the Greek political powers generally support Turkey's European prospects. I would like to hope that Mr. Georgiadis has not managed to change New Democracy in this regard also. This is precisely the national political line. JOURNALIST: What can our country lay out with regard to a new customs Agreement if one is made between the European Union and Turkey? G. KATROUGALOS: For us, the main issues, as for all European powers, are respect of human rights, the Rule of Law, as well as issues of good neighbourliness. It is obvious that a customs Union cannot be implemented between a country and the European Union when that country is hostile towards members of the Union. This will clearly have to be ensured in the future customs Union, and we wish for it to proceed, provided of course that these provocative actions by the other side cease. JOURNALIST: Does the potential installation of S-400s in Turkey disturb the balance in the Aegean? G. KATROUGALOS: But this is clearly the cornerstone, as the United States themselves have observed, of Turkey's relations with the United States and NATO. We see an effort being made towards a policy of direct communication between President Erdogan and President Trump, but... JOURNALIST: And through their sons-in-law, son-in-law diplomacy. G. KATROUGALOS: But it seems very difficult for this to overcome the true strategic dilemma that Turkey finds itself in presently; in other words whether it will continue to strengthen its relationship with Russia, in a way entering into a sort of de-westernization which is difficult to reverse, or whether it will again try to find a balance. JOURNALIST: To repeat the question, if it is tending towards a collaboration with Russia, if the S-400s are installed, will this upset the balance in the Aegean? G. KATROUGALOS: On a military level? JOURNALIST: Yes, above all on a military level. G. KATROUGALOS: On a military level, what would disrupt the balance in the Aegean would be the S-400s together with the F-35s. From the moment that this is something that is not going to be actualised, as it seems, the balance of military power in the Aegean will continue to be within the operational capabilities of our side because, you know, we have qualitative advantages over the other side. JOURNALIST: Are we talking about F-35s? I know they are very expensive but... G. KATROUGALOS: There are talks, but clearly they arent apropos. JOURNALIST: There are also talks with France for frigates, Minister, as far as the information goes. Flash The Central Election Commission (CEC) of Kazakhstan announced Wednesday that it has registered seven presidential candidates, with the registration being completed ahead of schedule. Konstantin Petrov, deputy chairman of the CEC, said that all the nominated candidates have been registered before May 6. The seven candidates are the incumbent President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev from the ruling Nur Otan Party, Daniya Yespayeva from the Democratic Party "Ak Zhol," Zhambyl Akhmetbekov from the Communist People's Party of Kazakhstan, Toleutai Rakhimbekov from the People's Democratic Patriotic Party "Auyl," Amangeldy Taspikhov from the Federation of Trade Unions of Kazakhstan, Sadybek Tugel from the "Uly Dala Kyrandary" Republican Movement and Amirzhan Kosanov from the United National Patriotic Movement "Ult Tagdyry." Zhumatay Aliyev from the public association "Khalyk Demography" was rejected by the CEC for failing the state language proficiency exam. Talgat Yergaliyev from the Union of Builders of Kazakhstan withdrew his presidential bid from the CEC. The extraordinary presidential election in Kazakhstan will be held on June 9. The election campaign will begin on May 11 and last until June 8. Flash U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo is in London on Wednesday for talks with British officials on the special relationship between the two countries amid heightened tensions with Iran and Brexit uncertainty. Pompeo is scheduled to meet with British Prime Minister Theresa May and Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt during his one-day visit "to discuss shared global priorities. He will also "give a speech on the U.S.-UK Special Relationship", according to a State Department statement issued on May 1. The senior U.S. official arrived in London after making an unannounced visit to Iraq. He previously canceled a scheduled trip to Germany. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 9) The Office of the Solicitor General (OSG) has asked the Supreme Court (SC) to junk the petition of the National Union of Peoples Lawyers (NUPL) for court protection, calling the progressive lawyers group plea a frantic and desperate cry for undue attention. In a 35-page return of the writ to the SC, the OSG said the lawyers group failed to substantiate their claims that their right to life, liberty and security are threatened and that their privacy in life, liberty or security have been violated or threatened. These alleged threats are, however, a mere amalgamation of facts based on newspaper clippings and unverified statements, threats more imagined than real, and exaggerated to create the ghost of a cause of action, the OSG said in their filing on Wednesday. The NUPL sought last month writs of amparo and habeas data from the SC against President Rodrigo Duterte and other high-ranking defense officials because of their "participation and position in the implementation of the government's all-out war policy" against progressive groups, political activists, and those they perceive as supporters or sympathizers of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) and the New People's Army. The SC granted their bid last week and asked the respondents to file a return of the writ. But the OSG said the lawyers group failed to show that the high-ranking government officials were directly behind the alleged threats against them. The OSG also said that the acts of BGen. Antonio Parlade of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) complained by the NUPL do not constitute extralegal killings and enforced disappearances or threats thereof. Parlade, who is AFP deputy chief of staff for civil military operations, was accused by the NUPL of wild red-tagging. He previously said the CPP is recruiting in universities by screening films on martial law and that the European Union is unwittingly funding communist rebels through their fronts. The OSG also invoked Dutertes immunity from suit as the sitting president. They impleaded the highest public official without basis but for mere shock and political value, and without honestly ascertaining who are the real indispensable parties, the OSG said. The OSG added that the mere linking of the NUPL to communist rebels is not a sufficient basis for a grant of a writ of amparo. Government lawyers also assailed the NUPLs legal standing to apply for writs of amparo and habeas data. They said the writs could only be granted on natural persons and not juridical persons, like organizations like the NUPL. Any citizen can head to any court and ask for a writ of amparo, which, if granted, would give court protection from threats to the person's life, liberty and security committed by government actors. Any person whose right to privacy in life, liberty or security has been violated by government actors may head to the SC, the Court of Appeals or the Sandiganbayan to seek a writ of habeas data which would order relief including the deletion, destruction or correction of data gathered about the petitioner. In issuing the writs in favor of the NUPL, the SC referred the NUPLs petition to the Court of Appeals, which will hear the case on May 14. It will issue a decision 10 days after the case is submitted for resolution. Other respondents in the petition include Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Benjamin Madrigal, National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon and other military officials. Recently, Malacanang said the NUPL was also tagged as part of a ploy to kick Duterte out of power. The plot also allegedly involved some journalists working for online news website Rappler, non-profit news site VERA Files, and the Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism (PCIJ). This surfaced following the PCIJs report on the Duterte familys finances and their token and opaque declaration of these in their Statement of Assets, Liabilities and Net Worth. Flash Cooperation with China in the field of infrastructure development is vital for the expansion of Serbia's transit capacities and for the country to become a regional transport hub, said Serbian Minister of Construction, Transport and Infrastructure Zorana Mihajlovic on Wednesday. She made the remarks while visiting the Belgrade Bypass motorway construction site contracted by the Power Construction Corporation of China (PowerChina). Touring the construction site with Chinese Ambassador Chen Bo, Mihajlovic praised the progress of PowerChina and its sub-contractor Azvirt from Azerbaijan on the 20.4-kilometer Segment B of the Belgrade Bypass that is worth 207 million euros (231.9 million U.S. dollars). "Our plan is for the same companies -- PowerChina and Azvirt -- to start construction work on Segment C, and I am very satisfied with all our achievements in infrastructure with China," she said. Mihajlovic, who is also deputy prime minister, recalled that Serbia had signed a memorandum with China on the construction of Segment C of the Belgrade Bypass, and will apply for a loan with the Export-Import Bank of China by June this year. Belgrade Bypass, with eight bridges and four tunnels remaining to be constructed, will help divert the existing volume of 15,500 cars and 2,000 trucks travelling through the city per hour, making transit through the Serbian capital less difficult. Compared with 2014, the number of cars using Serbia's highway corridors has increased by 25-30 million annually. Mihajlovic said that Serbia had also signed an agreement with China for the reconstruction of the Novi Sad-Subotica segment of the Belgrade-Budapest railway line to the tune of one billion euros. Construction should start this year, once the agreement gets the approval from the country's parliament. Moreover, on May 17, construction is scheduled to begin at the Preljina-Pozega segment of Serbia's new E763 highway built by the China Communication Construction Company. Infrastructure development has so far been the most visible proof of cooperation between Serbia and China, resulting in numerous mutually beneficial projects, said the Chinese ambassador. "We have already achieved great, visible results in the area of infrastructure in the mutual interests of economic development of both Serbia and China," Chen noted, assuring that cooperation will grow even stronger in the future. Flash Military officials from South Korea, the United States and Japan on Thursday held trilateral security talks in Seoul to discuss the Korean Peninsula issues, according to local media reports citing South Korean defense ministry. The 11th round of Defense Trilateral Talks (DTT) opened in the morning at the headquarters of South Korea's defense ministry in Seoul. The annual security dialogue was launched in 2008 to discuss regional security issues. During the dialogue, the three sides will discuss ways to cooperate in the denuclearization of and the establishment of lasting peace on the Korean Peninsula, regional security situations and the trilateral defense cooperation. The meeting was attended by South Korean Deputy Minister for National Defense Policy Chung Suk-hwan, U.S. Assistant Secretary of Defense for Indo-Pacific Security Affairs Randall Schriver and Takeshi Ishikawa, director general for defense policy of Japan. LANSING Minors would no longer be able to use electronic cigarettes under recent legislation approved by the Michigan Senate. Senate Bills 106 and 155 amend the Youth Tobacco Act to criminalize the sale of nicotine vapor products to anyone under the age of 18 and require child-resistant packaging on liquid nicotine containers. Minors would also be prohibited from possessing or using a vapor product or alternative nicotine product. The bills were approved unanimously by the Republican-led Senate and sent to the GOP-controlled House, which is considering a similar measure. Though the Democratic governor's office said it needed to review the legislation, the state Department of Health and Human Services a part of her administration reiterated its opposition, saying the bills would directly conflict with federal regulations. "Vapor products and alternative nicotine products would not be subject to Michigan's smoke-free air laws, simply because they are not defined as a tobacco product," said spokeswoman Lynn Sutfin. She said 18-year-old students could legally "vape" in class, and the products also could be used in restaurants, bars, concert halls and other places where smoking is off limits. Former Gov. Rick Snyder vetoed similar bills in 2015, saying he supported a teen e-cigarette ban, but had concerns with excluding alternative nicotine products from the definition of tobacco. A sponsor of one of the new bills, Republican Sen. Rick Outman of Six Lakes, said Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, a former legislator, voted for bills that Snyder vetoed. "We want to keep it out of the hands of kids, and this legislation does that," he said, adding e-cigarettes do not burn tobacco. "I don't care if they put marijuana in it. I don't care if they put bubblegum in it. I don't want them to have access to these devices." Minors can posses e-cigarettes, because they do not contain tobacco, but cannot buy them under federal law. But, Michigan was among just two states without its own restrictions as of December, according to the Public Health Law Center in St. Paul, Minnesota. For the fifth consecutive year, e-cigarettes have been the most commonly used tobacco product among U.S. middle and high school students, according to the 2018 National Youth Tobacco Survey. The total number of middle and high school students currently using e-cigarettes rose to 3.6 million in 2018, which is 1.5 million more than in the previous year. "We will take whatever action is necessary to stop youth e-cigarette use from continuing to build and to ensure young e-cigarette users dont become future smokers," said U.S. Food and Drug Administration Commissioner Scott Gottlieb about the agencys imperative to confront the youth e-cigarette epidemic. Under the proposed legislation, people who sell tobacco, vapor or alternative nicotine products to minors would face larger misdemeanor fines ranging between $100 for a first offense and $2,500 for a third or subsequent offense. Minors would receive a civil infraction for their first or second offense, with a maximum $50 fine. BAD AXE The Huron County Planning Commission will hold a special meeting for an extension of the countys solar energy moratorium. The meeting will be at 7 p.m. on May 22 in Room 305 of the Huron County Building. The proposed extension states the moratorium on the use of commercial utility scale solar energy systems will be extended for six months, or if commercial solar energy system regulations are adopted first. The current moratorium is set to expire in June, having been passed last June with a duration of one year. Huron County Building and Zoning Director Jeff Smith does not foresee this extension being controversial, as many people are aware of the countys efforts to get this finished. Were making a step to make sure we have the necessary time, Smith said. Huron County Planning Commission Chairman Robert McLean said the extension was requested out of necessity, as the planners expect to have a draft of the solar ordinance ready to present to the Huron County Board of Commissioners in June or July at the earliest. "We're anticipating another two or three meetings before we have it nailed down," McLean said. There will be a time for the public to speak during the meeting and for those who wish to speak, they will have three minutes. Written comments will also be accepted for those unable to make the hearing. Comments can be mailed to 250 E. Huron Avenue, Room 102, Bad Axe, Michigan, 48413. They can also be emailed to Smith at smithj@co.huron.mi.us. The planning commission recently received survey results on what residents felt were the main concerns regarding commercial solar. The survey drew mixed results about glare, aesthetics and agricultural land use. Over half of the respondents felt commercial solar energy was acceptable in both industrial and commercial areas in Huron County. Contributed photo / MIDDLETOWN The Connecticut Lyric Opera and Connecticut Virtuosi Chamber Orchestra are coming to Middletown on Saturday, May 11, 7:30 p.m., presenting a live, fully-staged performance of Verdis grandest of grand operas, Don Carlo. The Greater Middletown Concert Association is bringing the opera to Middletowns Santo Fragilio Performing Arts Center, 200 LaRosa Lane. Getting supplies to Marines ashore is growing more complex as new threats reach the space between ships and the beach, so leaders are looking to high-tech self-driving ships to get the job done. The Navy's mysterious 132-foot-long autonomous Sea Hunter vessel could move fuel, ammunition and other heavy supplies from large ships out to small teams of Marines, sea service leaders said Wednesday at the Sea-Air-Space expo outside Washington, D.C. "If we can do what we've demonstrated with Sea Hunter ... with logistics, to program that connector to meet that force at a location to sustain them and provide them with what they need, that is where we're going to have to practice, practice, practice and learn and adapt our structure to be responsive to that," said Rear Adm. Jim Kilby, director of warfare integration. Sea Hunter recently traveled from California to Hawaii and back again with hardly anyone operating aboard the vessel. Marines and sailors recently practiced sustaining ground troops operating at various points ashore during a massive amphibious exercise called Pacific Blitz. During that exercise, it became clear they must leverage the distance unmanned vessels can travel without risk to personnel, Brig. Gen. Stephen Liszewski, director of operations for Marine Corps Plans, Policies and Operations, told Military.com. "The unmanned piece is the untapped potential," Liszewski said. "We know that is one way we can get after this ability to operate in a more distributed and lethal environment." Ideally, the services would use a mix of drone aircraft and unmanned ships to get the job done, he added. There are times when they'll need the speed and range of unmanned aircraft, he said, but they can't carry everything. "With a surface connector, you're going to be able to move larger volumes of things, particularly if you're talking ammunition or bulk liquids like water or fuel," Liszewski said. "Clearly, aviation speed or range is what you get, but it's not one or the other. You've got to have both [surface connectors and air assets]." The Navy Department is planning big investments for unmanned technology. Its $23 billion shipbuilding budget request for 2020 included funds for two large unmanned surface ships. -- Gina Harkins can be reached at gina.harkins@military.com. Follow her on Twitter @ginaaharkins. Isaak Olson was two months from graduating in 2014 when he disclosed that his fiancee had given birth several months earlier... The Security Force Assistance Brigade concept for specialized units to advise and assist local partner forces has proved its worth in Afghanistan, an SFAB commander said Wednesday. Now, the Army is preparing to go global with the experienced teams of non-commissioned and junior officers. The 1st SFAB had success during nine months in Afghanistan. A second unit will deploy soon, followed by a third, Brig. Gen. Scott Jackson, commander of the 1st SFAB, said at a Pentagon briefing. The Army is proceeding with the overall concept put forward months ago by Chief of Staff Gen. Mark Milley for SFABs to be available to combatant commanders worldwide to assist partner nations against insurgencies, Jackson said. Milley has since been nominated to become the next chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. The Army has five SFABs in the works and plans to assign one each to U.S. Central Command, Africa Command, European Command, Indo-Pacific Command and Southern Command, Milley said in January at an Association of the U.S. Army's Institute of Land Warfare breakfast. Related content: Reports on the 1st SFAB's deployment to Afghanistan, which ended last November, were "extraordinarily positive," Milley said. Their partnership with the Afghan forces against the Taliban was very successful, he said. "It's a tactical effect; it's not a strategic effect necessarily, but the tactical effect that they had was very positive." In a separate interview Wednesday with The Associated Press, Jackson said future SFAB deployments around the world are likely to be in small teams rather than in brigade-sized units. "I think future deployments throughout the world will be in much smaller packages," he told the AP. "I think a situation where you have a single team in a single country is a likely scenario." At the Pentagon briefing, Jackson and other officers and NCOs from the 1st SFAB said their time on the ground in Afghanistan convinced them that the Afghan security forces could succeed against the Taliban. "I totally disagree" with the notion that there is no end in sight for the Afghan war, now in its 18th year, Jackson said. But he gave no timeline for success in the U.S. strategy of pressuring the Taliban to a political settlement. Command Sgt. Major Christopher Wren of the 1st SFAB said he saw improvements in the Afghans' ability to conduct offensive maneuvers. "Just us being there gave them confidence," he said. Separately, at a budget hearing Wednesday of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Joint Chiefs Chairman Gen. Joseph Dunford said the continuing mission in Afghanistan to forge a peace agreement with the Taliban is vital to U.S. homeland security. About 20 terrorist groups that have made threats to attack the U.S. homeland are present in the region, he said, adding that it is his belief the U.S. presence in Afghanistan has "prevented another 9/11," although he acknowledged that it was difficult to prove. Dunford said American troops should remain in Afghanistan "commensurate to the level of threat" posed to the U.S. -- Richard Sisk can be reached at Richard.Sisk@Military.com. Marines tell the American people they're the few and the proud who uphold honor, courage and commitment -- and leathernecks need to start meeting that expectation, their top officer said this week. Commandant Gen. Robert Neller told Marines at a California air station Wednesday that he wants them to sing the "Marines Hymn" every time they hear it, to remind them of the title they've earned. "The reason I want us to sing it when you're not standing in formation is [to] think about the words that are in that, the lyrics," Neller said during a town hall event at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, California. "'First to fight,' 'keep our honor clean,' 'proud to claim the title.' "The title," he added. "It's not a name -- we have a title. You are a Marine." Neller compared earning the title "Marine" with "Game of Thrones" characters, such as Ser Brienne of Tarth, being knighted. Ser Brienne, the realm's only female knight, earned that title in the show's final season. "There's virtue and there's honor in [being a Marine]," he said. "And you can't change that." Neller's push to have all Marines sing their hymn was slated to be included in a slew of updates expected to hit the service's drill manual last month. Instead of simply standing at attention, the commandant wants Marines to belt out the lyrics, so long as they're not in formation or participating in a ceremony, parade or review. Marine officials did not immediately respond to questions about whether those changes have been officially made to the drill manual. For the rest of their lives, people will associate Marines with the Corps, Neller said, even years after they leave the service. Anything that's ever written about them is likely to include the reference to their time in the Marine Corps. "[It's] going to start out with your name, probably where you're from, and then it's going to say 'former Marine,'" he said. "They're going to write something, and you own that space. So what's it going to say?" The public will always expect Marines to uphold their core values, Neller added. "And you need to respect that, because I got some equity in that," he told Marines. Though the majority Marines who leave the Corps go on to lead honorable lives, headlines have tied a small number of veterans to white supremacy, mass shootings and the illicit sharing of nude photos of active-duty service members. In his four years as commandant, Neller has pressed Marines to protect the title they've earned. The Marine Corps has struggled to bring down its rates of sexual assault and suicides on the active-duty side. The commandant told Marines earlier this month that the sexual-assault statistics are unacceptable. "Alcohol abuse is a contributing factor to a significant number of these incidents and other aberrant behaviors," Neller said. -- Gina Harkins can be reached at gina.harkins@military.com. Follow her on Twitter @ginaaharkins. NATIONAL HARBOR, Maryland -- The Marine Corps is dropping nearly $48 million on Raytheon's Naval Strike Missile (NSM) as it moves toward a series of experiments involving striking enemy ships and maritime targets from land. Raytheon announced this week during the Navy League's Sea-Air-Space conference outside Washington, D.C., that it will provide the NSM to the Marine Corps under a $47.59 million Other Transaction Authority agreement, a Pentagon spending category for experimentation and prototyping. The deal follows a 2018 Navy contract with Raytheon to manufacture and deliver the NSM as the over-the-horizon missile system for the service's littoral combat ships and the frigates that will succeed them. "The Marine Corps' selection of the Navy's anti-ship missile enhances joint interoperability and reduces costs and logistical burdens," Raytheon said in a statement. Developed by Norway's Kongsberg Defence and Aerospace, the NSM features a 275-pound, high-explosive warhead and has an operational range of more than 100 nautical miles. In a high-profile experiment during the 2018 Rim of the Pacific Exercise, U.S. Army Pacific fired an NSM from a Palletized Load System truck to hit a decommissioned ship off the coast of Hawaii. A spokesman for Marine Corps Systems Command, Manny Pacheco, said the service plans to integrate the missile onto land-based vehicles over the next few years. "What the [Other Transaction Authority] is going to allow us to do is take that capability, put it on certain vehicle platforms to see what it can do," Pacheco said. "[The Marine Corps wants] to do a variety of test demonstrations on the capability." Related Video: Breaking Defense reported in January that the Marine Corps was moving forward fast with plans to develop a land-based, ship-sinking missile capability, as part of an effort called Navy-Marine Expeditionary Ship Interdiction System, or NMSIS. The outlet reported at the time that the Corps was considering NSM, Lockheed Martin Corp.'s Long-Range Anti-Ship Missile and Boeing's Harpoon for the development program. It added that the service is considering three different vehicles as a missile launch platform, including the M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System; the Medium Tactical Vehicle Replacement, or 7-ton, truck; and the Logistic Vehicle System Replacement. Pacheco indicated that a vehicle platform had not yet been selected, and specifics of timeline and experimentation moving forward would hinge, to some extent, on that decision. Under Marine Corps Commandant Gen. Robert Neller, the Corps has become more aggressive in experimentation and pursuit of capabilities that can be integrated into existing platforms. In 2017, Marine Maj. Gen. David Coffman, the Navy's director of Expeditionary Warfare, told Military.com that the Corps wanted a truck-mounted rocket system compact enough to fit in an MV-22 Osprey. The same year, the Marines fired HIMARS from the back of an amphibious ship, obliterating a land target 43 miles away. In February, Neller told USNI News the Marine Corps wanted a long-range anti-ship missile as fast as possible to support the Navy from the land in sea-control efforts. "There's a ground component to the maritime fight. We're a naval force in a naval campaign; you have to help the ships control sea space. And you can do that from the land," he told the outlet. Randy Kempton, Raytheon's NSM program director, told Military.com at Sea-Air-Space that the Marine Corps' selection of NSM is a big deal for the company. "A year ago, we were at this show and we weren't quite sure where the Navy was going with NSM. We didn't have a big contract," he said. "Fast-forward a year, and the Navy's got us under contract for a program of record, and in about a year's timeframe, we're already integrating into another service. So from our perspective, it's a big deal. It's gaining momentum." -- Hope Hodge Seck can be reached at hope.seck@military.com. Follow her on Twitter at @HopeSeck. In an effort to combat the steep rise in military sexual-assault reports, the Navy has changed the rules governing expedited transfers to another command, making more victims of abuse eligible for the protective measure. The changes to the Military Personnel Manual authorized Tuesday by Navy Personnel Command state that those eligible for expedited transfers include victims of sexual assault, stalking, "wrongful broadcast or distribution of intimate visual images," and "other sexual misconduct." The expedited transfers are limited to victims who make "unrestricted" reports of offenses, meaning that the victim's commanding officer and law enforcement are notified and a potential criminal investigation can be started. Restricted reports are filed by victims who would rather not have a criminal investigation or their command notified, according to the military's Sexual Assault Prevention and Response program. Victims filing restricted reports can still have access to medical treatment, emergency care, victim advocacy and counseling services, and legal consultations. According to the Navy news release, the expedited transfers are meant "to address situations in which a service member feels safe, but uncomfortable, and to assist in the victim's recovery by moving them to a new location." Safety transfers come into play when "there are concerns for the safety and well-being of service members or their dependents," the service said, and can include temporary duty at another location, a permanent change of activity or a permanent change of station. Victims serving in the Navy Reserve have the option "to perform their inactive duty training on different weekends than their alleged offender or to perform inactive duty with a different unit in the home drilling location," according to the Navy. The changes follow a report last week in the biannual survey conducted by the Defense Department of active-duty service members, showing a nearly 38% spike in the estimated number of sexual assaults and sexual misconduct in fiscal 2018. The data from the DoD's anonymous survey estimates 20,500 service members across the military branches -- about 13,000 women and 7,500 men -- were sexually assaulted in 2018, compared to 14,900 in 2016. At a hearing Wednesday of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Sen. Patty Murray, D-Washington, challenged Acting Defense Secretary Patrick Shanahan on what she termed the ineffective response thus far from the DoD to sexual assaults in the ranks. "The new report really is disturbing to me. For years, we've heard from the department that the services have this under control," she said. "We keep hearing from everyone in leadership and all this, but it's not working." In response, Shanahan said, "We know we have to improve the system itself." He said the 20,500 alleged instances of sexual assault referenced in the survey should be distinguished from the 4,002 actual reports of cases. Of those 4,002 reports, about 29 percent were outside the DoD's jurisdiction, Shanahan said. "When there was sufficient evidence, we took action 100% of the time against the accused," he said, either through courts-martial or other disciplinary action. "I'm not here to parse numbers," Murray said. "Whatever's been happening is not working, and I'm beginning to think we need to put controls on oversight out of the department. Something's not working." Shanahan said he got the message. "We don't accept the results, and we know we have to do better," he said. -- Richard Sisk can be reached at Richard.Sisk@Military.com. NORWAY -- The Royal Norwegian Air Force is gearing up to use its F-35 Joint Strike Fighters for its alert mission, intercepting incoming Russian aircraft as they fly into Norwegian airspace. Before that happens, Norwegian pilots want to train alongside the U.S. Air Force, and will do so in the next few weeks as the biennial Arctic Challenge exercise kicks off in the high north, the term used for the region encompassing the Nordic countries and the Arctic, according to officials in the Ministry of Defense and Ministry of Foreign Affairs. It will mark Norway's first major exercise for its F-35A variant. "The U.S. Air Force is a huge reinforcement or potential. We are not enough," said Svein Efjestad, policy director for the department for security and policy operations at Norway's Ministry of Defense. Efjestad said that pairing with the U.S. in the exercise will bring volume, "tactical training" and advancement. Related content: "We do not have the capacity to build on this knowledge ourselves; we have to draw on the bigger partners," he said in an interview. Military.com spoke with officials here as part of a fact-finding trip organized by the Atlantic Council, a Washington, D.C.-based think tank, under the auspices of its partnership with the Norwegian Ministry of Defense. Some officials provided remarks on background in order to speak freely on various subjects. The purchase of the F-35 "was a big step forward in the country. It's not a given we should only focus on the high-end capability, but [rather speaks to] what kind of doctrine should we apply for [our future]," said a top official from the Ministry of Foreign affairs, citing the need to build and strengthen a coalition. The foreign ministry official added, "The risk of strategic misunderstanding is better when [using the F-35] in the high north." Norway anticipates housing some F-35s at a northern forward operating location in Evenes for the alert mission. Officials said they would welcome additional interoperability flights with the U.S. and allies to mix and match capabilities. With the growing international interest in the Arctic, allied militaries could learn more about Russia's expanding activities in the region, including GPS jamming and how to thwart or manage hostile action, they said. Norway is also part of the NATO rotation to conduct Baltic Air Policing, or scrambles on behalf of the Baltic states, which lack capable air forces. The plan is to use F-35 for that mission too. Just next door, Russia has been spotted moving equipment -- including the S-400 Triumf surface-to-air missile system -- into the Kola Peninsula, which directly borders Norway, Finland and the Barents Sea. The buildup of SAMs is presumed to be an effort to protect Russia's maritime second strike capability in the region -- possible nuclear retaliation in response to an initial nuclear launch from an attacker. Russia operates its nuclear-powered and conventional submarine missions from the Barents Sea. As with any new program, as Norway's F-35A inventory grows, flights are expected to increase, an MoD official said. Lately "we tease the Finns and the Swedes with our activity, saying, you've [missed it] because you haven't seen us," the defense official said. The Nordic Defence Cooperation, known as NORDEFCO, which operates as a defense alliance network, said Thursday it will inform Russia of the upcoming Arctic Challenge drills. More than 100 aircraft -- roughly one-fourth of them belonging to the U.S. -- and one thousand personnel are expected to participate in the flag-level drills that will span Bod Air Station in Norway, Lulea in Sweden and Rovaniemi in Finland from May 20 to June 5. Three new stealth fighters arrived this week at rland Main Air Station, boosting the country's inventory to 12. Seven aircraft belonging to Norway are still at Luke Air Force Base, Arizona. Manufacturer Lockheed Martin Corp. is scheduled to deliver six aircraft to Norway each year. By September, the country will have 15 aircraft, the minimum needed to declare initial operating capability for the fighter. The government expects to achieve IOC by the end of the year and to fully transition to the F-35 from the F-16 Fighting Falcon by 2022. "There was this realization that, in order to operate in conflict, you have to go top of the line and conjointly with the U.S. Air Force," the foreign ministry official said. Much like in the U.S., the F-35 program here hasn't been without growing pains. Buying into the U.S.-led program marked the thinly populated country's largest and most expensive procurement when officials announced in 2008 that Norway had chosen the fifth-generation jet with a plan to eventually buy 52 aircraft. It has been recently reported that the country is struggling to boost its personnel to efficiently maintain the jet. There has been a "dip" in maintainers transitioning from the F-16 to the F-35 because of the difference in technicality of the two platforms, officials here said. But they said that issue is not unexpected, occurring whenever something new enters the equipment inventory. The F-35 is seen as a necessity regardless of the initial challenges, officials said. "Yes, it's expensive, but it's necessary," the MFA official said, speaking from a policy and future strategy perspective. -- Oriana Pawlyk can be reached at oriana.pawlyk@military.com. Follow her on Twitter at @Oriana0214. Several members of Congress have introduced a bill that would make it easier for military spouses to maintain a small business or transfer professional licenses as they move from state to state. The legislation, known as the Portable Certification of Spouses, or PCS, bill, would give the Pentagon the authority to develop interstate agreements for professional licensing -- a provision that would help the estimated third of working military spouses in careers requiring state licenses. The bill also would allow spouses to declare and maintain residency in one state for the purposes of establishing a business. According to Sen. Tom Cotton, R-Arkansas, the bill would "cut red tape for military spouses and ensure they can pursue a career even as they are following their military spouses." "Moves are already stressful enough. The PCS act would make life easier for military families," Cotton said during a press event Thursday to announce the bill. The unemployment rate for military spouses estimates in range from 16% to 24% -- up to six times the general rate of unemployment in the U.S. In the past several years, presidential administrations have made military spouse employment a top priority. Last May, President Donald Trump issued an executive order to improve military spouse hiring within the federal workforce. Among the initiatives geared to military spouse employment under the administration of former President Barack Obama, first lady Michelle Obama launched an initiative calling on states to streamline procedures for state licensing for service members, veterans and spouses. Still, spouses say it is a challenge to transfer licenses or establish a business, given state requirements over relocating for legal and tax purposes. On Wednesday, Karen Pence, wife of Vice President Mike Pence, announced that she is holding a one-day summit on spouse employment at the White House, bringing together leaders from 46 businesses to determine how the private sector can assist in supporting military spouse employment. On Thursday, during a press conference with Cotton and PCS bill co-sponsor Sen. Jeanne Shaheen, D-New Hampshire, Pence threw her support behind the proposed PCS bill. "Spouses have shared their stories with me about the difficulties of getting hired and the inconsistent professional licensing requirements as they move, on average, every two to three years," said Pence, the mother of a married Marine Corps officer. "Spouses are the backbone of military families, and they contribute directly to the strength and readiness of our troops. It is imperative that we support our military spouses." Shaheen expressed confidence that the bill, backed by members of the House and Senate Armed Services Committees, including Reps. Jim Banks, R-Indiana, and Susan Davis, D-California, will be considered this year. "We'll be urging consideration," Shaheen said. "We are off to a good start." -- Patricia Kime can be reached at Patricia.Kime@Military.com. Follow her on Twitter at @patriciakime. The longest-serving acting defense secretary will be nominated to do the job permanently, White House officials announced Thursday. President Donald Trump intends to nominate Patrick Shanahan, a former Boeing leader, to be the next defense secretary, a role he's filled since Jim Mattis quit the job in December in protest of the president's policies. Shanahan said he's honored by the announcement and, if confirmed, "will continue the aggressive implementation of our National Defense Strategy." "I remain committed to modernizing the force so our remarkable Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, and Marines have everything they need to keep our military lethal and our country safe," he said in a statement. Related content: Shanahan has demonstrated his ability to lead the Pentagon, Trump's press secretary, Sarah Sanders, said in a statement Wednesday. "Acting Secretary Shanahan has served in high-profile positions, including the Deputy Secretary of Defense and Vice President of Supply Chain and Operations at Boeing," her statement reads. "[He] has proven over the last several months that he is beyond qualified to lead the Department of Defense, and he will continue to do an excellent job." Sanders made the announcement about Shanahan's pending nomination via Twitter. Shanahan, who became Mattis' deputy defense secretary in July 2017, doesn't appear to intend to stray too far from the new national defense strategy, which he helped create. Shanahan oversaw other recent Pentagon reforms, including cyber, nuclear and missile-defense reviews and the creation of a new joint center on artificial intelligence. Trump has long been expected to nominate to Shanahan to serve as the Pentagon's next civilian leader. But an investigation just weeks into his tenure as acting defense secretary slowed the announcement as officials looked into allegations that he was using his position to promote his former employer while disparaging Boeing's competitors. Last month, the Defense Department's Inspector General's office released a 47-page report on the probe, which found that Shanahan fully complied with his ethics agreements and obligations regarding the aerospace company and its competitors. Shanahan, who was on Boeing's executive council after working there for three decades, served as vice president and general manager of the company's 787 commercial Dreamliner program. He made references to that aircraft "in almost every meeting," Air Force Secretary Heather Wilson told investigators. "[But] I never really took those issues as being any kind of an ethical problem," she said. "... It was more comparing his experience and criticizing a contractor that he felt wasn't getting the supply chain right." Shanahan also spoke negatively of the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter program, but witnesses said that's common among Pentagon leaders. "Most of the people in the building" have said critical things about the F-35 program, said Robert Daigle, director of the Defense Department's cost-assessment and program evaluation. When interviewed, Shanahan told investigators he called the program "f---ed up," not the aircraft. The Lightning II aircraft itself is awesome, he said, but the aircraft are grounded too often and there have been many expensive retrofits. While at Boeing, Shanahan also oversaw development of the Apache and Chinook helicopters and the MV-22 Osprey tiltrotor aircraft systems. Trump's plan to have Shanahan serve in the defense secretary role permanently has been met with mixed reactions from lawmakers on Capitol Hill. Shanahan must be confirmed by the Senate to serve in the role permanently, and he appears to have the support of the Republican majority. Sen. Jim Inhofe, an Oklahoma Republican and chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, said he welcome's Trump's selection. "I look forward to talking with him at his confirmation hearing about how we can work together to implement the National Defense Strategy and care for our service members, veterans and military families," he said. Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., a senior member of the committee, said Shanahan has demonstrated he's capable of "managing the needs of our armed forces and protecting our national security." However, Rep. Ruben Gallego, an Arizona Democrat and Iraq War veteran, is urging members of the Senate to reject Shanahan's nomination. Troops deserve better leadership, he said. "Shanahan has bumbled the Niger investigation, stood by while critical positions remain unstaffed, and is the man at the helm for the Department of Defense's unconstitutional theft of resources for Trump's dumb border wall." Shanahan has master's degrees in engineering and business administration. -- Gina Harkins can be reached at gina.harkins@military.com. Follow her on Twitter @ginaaharkins. International diplomacy is a sort of constantly evolving, tangled mess. So much so that, in some cases, we could technically still be at war with a country that we're now allied with. For instance, America never ratified the treaty that ended World War I, but invading Germany to finally settle the century-old grudge match would get fairly complicated since it's now a NATO member. Here are three wars that we never bothered to wrap up on paper (but please don't try to go fight in them): 1. America never agreed to the final terms of World War I U.S. Army infantrymen fight during the Meuse-Argonne Offensive of World War I. (U.S. Army) Yup, we'll just go ahead and knock out this one that we hinted at in the intro. America signed, but never ratified, the Treaty of Versailles that ended World War I. Oddly enough, though, this wasn't because of issues with the lay of the land in Europe as the war closed, or even land claims or military restrictions around the world. The actual issue was that American President Woodrow Wilson wanted to establish the League of Nations, the precursor to the United Nations, and he used the treaty to do it. But isolationists in Congress didn't want America to join the league, and so they shot down all attempts to ratify the treaty at home. And America only officially adopts treaties when ratified, not signed, so America never actually agreed to the final terms of World War I. 2. Japan and China never made peace after World War II Gurkha troops march to escort Japanese prisoners of war at the end of World War II in 1945. (Imperial War Museums) There are a number of still-simmering tensions between combatants from World War II, including the Kuril Islands Dispute between Russia and Japan. (This author even once made the error of saying that Russia and Japan were still at war, which is only sort of right. While the two countries never agreed to a treaty ending the conflict, they did agree to a Joint Declaration in 1956 that had a similar effect. Essentially, it said they couldn't yet agree to a treaty, but they were no longer fighting the war.) But there was an Allied country that never reached peace with Japan: China. And China arguably suffered the worst under Japanese aggression. But, because of the civil war in China at the time, there were two rival governments claiming to represent China, and no one could agree on which government to invite. So China didn't take part in the peace process at all. So China and Japan never technically ended their hostilities, and Japan's almost-peace with Russia is not quite finished either. 3. The Koreas are, famously, still at war. Marine Corps Gen. Joseph F. Dunford Jr., Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, visits the Demilitarized Zone on the Korean Peninsula in 2015. (Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Dominique A. Pineiro) The ongoing state of conflict on the Korean Peninsula is probably the most famous issue on this list. The Korean War sort of ended on July 27, 1953, when the United Nations and the Delegation of the Korean People's Army and the Chinese People's Volunteers signed the Korean Armistice Agreement which instituted a truce between North and South Korea. But, importantly, no national government agreed to the armistice or the truce. The militaries involved essentially agreed to stop killing each other, but the larger governments never came together to hash out the real peace. And this is a problem since the two countries have a much more tense relationship than any other group on this list. America and Germany are not suddenly going to revert back to 1918 and start killing each other again. But South and North Koreans at the border still sometimes shoot at one another, and people have died in border clashes. MORE POSTS FROM WE ARE THE MIGHTY: How the Air Force pits a military working dog against a 'downed pilot' These insane robot machine guns guard the Korean DMZ A cartoonish look at how an epic airlift prevented World War 3 We Are The Mighty (WATM) celebrates service with stories that inspire. WATM is made in Hollywood by veterans. It's military life presented like never before. Check it out at We Are the Mighty. How Bad Do You Want to Achieve Your Goal? Heres How to Tell If You Want It Enough to Succeed Do you have a goal in front of you? How badly do you want to achieve that dream? Are you willing to take on the challenge to... We all know the story now. Navy Command Master Chief Jonas Carter told sailors on the carrier Harry S. Truman to "clap like we're at a strip club" before Vice President Mike Pence gave a speech on April 30. After an online firestorm, Carter has resigned, stepping down from his position as the ship's senior enlisted leader and retiring from the Navy. Since it was social media that torched Carter's career, perhaps it's fitting that the Truman's commanding officer, Capt. Nick Dienna, announced the decision in a public Facebook post. As Military.com reported Wednesday, leaders such as former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush, National Review senior editor Jay Nordlinger and conservative commentator Bill Kristol are upset that Carter was forced out by such "trivial" comments. At least publicly, Carter is acknowledging wrongdoing, saying, "When you find yourself making a mistake, own it, accept responsibility and learn from it. Today, I want each of you to know that I have taken full responsibility of my mistake last week and, together with my family, I have decided to retire." Was his "locker room talk" really so bad? Here are some takes floating around the internet. 1. Carter's comments were disrespectful to the office of the vice president. There's "inside the family" talk and there's a different way to behave when you're hosting an honored guest, especially when that honored guest brings a horde of reporters and photographers to your house. 2. "Clap like you're in a strip club" ignores the fact that many of the sailors serving on your ship are women. "Strip club" jokes are designed to make them uncomfortable and promote the objectification of women among young sailors. 3. Everyone knows the stories from boot camp: Sarge identifies the deeply religious recruit and spends weeks trying to make him blush with profane and sex-related comments. There are plenty of sailors on that boat who would never set foot in a strip club, and maybe it's time to back off and stop mocking their beliefs. 4. Of course, we all know that it's an all-volunteer military. You knew what you signed up for. Grow up. Your grandpa could take it and so can you. Social media is stupid and messes up everything. What do you think? Did Carter's career get sacrificed on the altar of political correctness? Should he have skipped the comments altogether? Or just realized that a public forum wasn't the place to talk that way? Let us know what you think and sound off! How to use the mindat.org media viewer Click/touch this help panel to close it. Welcome to the mindat.org media viewer. Here is a quick guide to some of the options available to you. 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Summary of all keyboard shortcuts A six-day quarantine in Mongolia has been lifted following the death of a couple who died from the bubonic plague after eating raw marmot meat as a folk remedy for good health. BBC reports that this quarantine kept a number of tourists locked down in the area along the borders of China and Russia for nearly a week. The outlet reports that the quarantine started on May 1, and that a spokesperson with the World Health Organization confirmed that the couple had consumed raw marmot meat and kidney. Ariuntuya Ochirpurev of the WHO also confirmed that 118 people had come into contact with the Mongolian couple, and that they were quarantined and treated. Sebastian Pique, an American Peace Corps volunteer in the region, told AFP that the streets in the area have been clear due to those being afraid of contracting the disease. Related: Muskrats are a Lenten delicacy for some in southeast Michigan Humans usually get plague after being bitten by a rodent flea that is carrying the plague bacterium or by handling an animal infected with plague," the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention writes on its website. "Plague is infamous for killing millions of people in Europe during the Middle Ages. Today, modern antibiotics are effective in treating plague. "Without prompt treatment, the disease can cause serious illness or death. Presently, human plague infections continue to occur in the western United States, but significantly more cases occur in parts of Africa and Asia. Plague cases reported around world 2010-2015 Residents in Southeast Michigan continue to feel the wrath of high water levels, with wind-driven water causing more flooding along western Lake Erie this week that left many stranded at their homes. Wind-driven flooding was so bad in some communities that authorities had to use boats to rescue residents and transport them to safety. The Associated Press reports that firefighters in Berlin Township saved residents via boats in the roads, while those in Frenchtown Township were using pumps to clear the streets. A lakeshore flood warning remains in effect for Lake Huron, Lake St. Clair, the St. Clair River and Lake Erie through 2 p.m. Thursday, May 9. The National Weather Service reports that water levels will be exacerbated by high wave action impacting the shoreline, with waves around 5 feet. Related: Great Lakes expected to see higher than usual water levels through summer The wind direction will dictate where the flooding will occur. Initially the increasing wind will blow from a direct easterly direction. This easterly wind will increase the water on the west end of Lake Erie," MLive chief meteorologist Mark Torregrossa reports. "Higher water on the west end of Lake Erie will slow the flow of the Detroit River, and raise the water level on the Detroit River. The higher water level on the Detroit River will slow the emptying of Lake St. Clair into the Detroit River. Lake Erie is projected to rise 9 inches from its most recent water level readings, with most of the flooding along the lakeshore coming from Luna Pier south. Related: Quick burst of storms could bring severe weather to Detroit, Ann Arbor, southeast Michigan Scattered thunderstorms today, mainly this afternoon, as a cold front tracks through this evening, ending the threat of thunderstorms, the NWS reports. A few thunderstorms this afternoon are expected to be strong producing small hail and wind gust to 50 mph. Isolated marginally severe thunderstorms can also not be ruled out between 4-8 PM. Wind gusts to 60 MPH and hail to around 1 inch in diameter would be the main hazards as storms track northeast around 40 mph. About a week ago, Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer declared a state of emergency in Detroit and Wayne County after heavy rainfall and continued drainage issues. Related: Flooding in Metro Detroit, suburbs prompt Dearborn Heights to consider emergency declaration A Flood Warning remains in effect for St Clair County along the St Clair River. pic.twitter.com/M20uyyQS5z NWS Detroit (@NWSDetroit) May 8, 2019 DETROIT -- Flint Mayor Karen Weaver asked employees to redirect charitable donors to a nonprofit fund she created shortly after taking office in 2015, an ex-city official testified during a federal whistleblower trial in Detroit on Wednesday, May 8. Weaver, who took the stand briefly Wednesday and may testify further Thursday, said she created the fund at the recommendation of other mayors or advisers from across Michigan, including former Lansing Mayor Virgil Bernero and Lansing Bishop David W. Maxwell, who assisted in the funds creation. The mayor testified that Lansing-based Martin Waymire public relations firm recommended she devote a half-day per week to soliciting funds by phone from business leaders and charitable foundation directors. Because she was unable to devote the time, the firm helped draft a solicitation letter, but Weaver said she never mailed it. Weaver testified the fund was no secret, intended to offset travel costs incurred while she spread the word across the state and nation about what was going on with the city of Flint." It couldnt be secret if I was going to send out letters and make calls, Weaver testified. The mayor said shed hoped to raise enough funds to compensate volunteers who assisted with the fund. At some point, I wanted to get Mr. Gilcreast paid, Weavers said, referring to her close political adviser. They got slick, said community activist and Weaver critic Arthur Woodson, who attended Wednesdays hearing. They were trying to steal the money. Amid the citys water contamination crisis, Weaver issued an emergency declaration in December 2015, spurring an influx of donations. However, ex-Chief Financial Officer Jody Lundquist said the city wasnt set up to receive tax-exempt donations. This led City Council to pass an ordinance forming a nonprofit community foundation for the purpose of collecting donations to help Flint residents combat the water crisis. By January 2016, Weaver, who was elected and took office the previous November, created her nonprofit, Caring for Flint, with the help of the Miller Canfield law firm, according to testimony and records entered into evidence Wednesday. The nonprofit was created as a 527 organization, usually a form of campaign fund created for politicians. Under federal law, a 527 account isnt required to register or report to the state, can accept direct corporate contributions and is only obliged to report donors and expenditures if contributions exceed $25,000 in a year. Lundquist testified that she was approached in early February 2016 by Flint City Administrator Natasha Henderson, who told her that Weaver, through her assistant Maxine Murray, had asked her to direct any potential city donors to the mayors newly formed account. Murray independently told the then-chief financial officer she felt uncomfortable about the direction she received from the mayor, Lundquist testified. Lundquist also said she witnessed Henderson telling ex-Flint Attorney Anthony Chubb about the request. Weaver fired Henderson days later. The termination prompted Henderson, who claims she was fired for pointing out the questionable donation diversion, to file a federal Whistleblower Protection Act lawsuit in May 2016 against Flint and Weaver, whos since been dismissed as a defendant in the case. Weaver claims she fired Henderson for failing to not properly notify the mayors office about a legionella bacteria outbreak possibly connected to the water crisis and blamed for the deaths of at least a dozen Flint-area residents. Hendersons lawsuit was dismissed in a 2017 U.S. District Court ruling, but portions of the lawsuit related to the Whistleblower Protection Act were reinstated by the U.S. Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals in September 2018. Henderson has mustered sufficient circumstantial evidence of a retaliatory motive to prevent summary judgment, Circuit Judge Jane B. Stranch wrote in the ruling of a three-judge panel. The case is scheduled to enter its seventh day of trial before U.S. District Judge Sean F. Cox on Thursday. Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel is taking measures to move the marijuana industry in the state forward by trying to troubleshoot legal issues and supporting federal legislation that would make it easier for weed businesses to bank their money. This week she announced shes started a legal work group on medical and recreational marijuana issues to regularly review and analyze laws and regulations that affect the Michigan market. We are working hard now to avoid the years of uncertainty, lawsuits, appeals and uncertainty that followed the enactment of Michigans Medical Marijuana Act in 2008, Nessel said in a statement. With new laws and regulations on the books, particularly concerning recreational marijuana, I am confident this diverse group collectively has the knowledge, experience, and thus credibility to make recommendations that will be accepted and implemented by all involved. The state of Michigan has also faced numerous lawsuits over its implementation of the 2016 law -- the Medical Marihuana Facilities Licensing Act -- in the past year. Most recently in April, Court of Claims Judge Stephen Borrello chastised officials in the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs for being ill-equipped to handle the licensing process in a timely manner -- which has led to a market of unlicensed businesses. Nessels work group will ultimately make recommendations to lawmakers, police, judges, prosecutors, lawyers and to the main regulatory body for the industry, the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs. The work group includes the director of the Bureau of Marijuana Regulation, Andrew Brisbo, as well as the following people: lawyer Robert Baldori, Livonia City Attorney Paul Bernier, Michigan Cannabis Industry Association Political Director Margeaux Bruner, Assistant Attorney General Robyn B. Frankel, former 30th Judicial Circuit Court Judge James R. Giddings, State Bar of Michigan Marijuana Law Section member Daniel W. Grow, Michigan State Police Lt. Chris Hawkins, State Bar of Michigan Marijuana Law Section chairman Robert A. Hendricks, Prosecuting Attorneys Association of Michigan President DJ Hilson, attorney Barton Morris, Assistant Attorney General John S. Pallas, State Appellate Defender Office Director Jonathan Sacks, Bureau of Marijuana Regulation Legal Division Director Adam Sandoval and Prosecuting Attorneys Association of Michigan Traffic Safety Resource Prosecutor Kenneth Stecker. Also this week, Nessel joined a group of attorneys general from 38 states in bipartisan support of a proposed federal law -- the Secure And Fair Enforcement (SAFE) Banking Act (H.R. 1595). The measure would allow legitimate marijuana businesses to use the federal banking system. All legal and legitimate businesses should have a safe place to put their revenue and not have to rely on under-the-floorboard safes to store their legally earned money, Nessel said in a statement. Michigan expanding its market to include legal recreational sales of marijuana this year compels us to join this effort to ensure we protect Michigan businesses from becoming unnecessary targets of bad actors, keeping everyone safe in the process. The bill received the approval of the federal House Financial Services Committee in March, and now awaits the vote of the full House. Nessel has brought a new approach to marijuana to the attorney generals office since starting her tenure in January. By February she announced she had dismissed charges against four people in two pending marijuana cases. -- Amy Biolchini is the marijuana beat reporter for MLive. Contact her with questions, tips or comments at abiolch1@mlive.com. Read more from MLive about medical and recreational marijuana. A day after the Michigan Senate voted to push through changes to the states no-fault insurance policies that would let drivers opt out of unlimited medical coverage for auto accidents, the Michigan House is set to take its turn. On Wednesday evening, House Republicans began swapping out the existing language for House Bill 4397 - legislation sponsored by Rep. Jason Sheppard, R-Temperance - for its version of changing Michigans auto no-fault insurance system, which would create five tiers of coverage options and mandate rate reductions for five years based on coverage level. Under the plan distributed by House Republicans, Michigan drivers could choose from between five levels of personal injury protection, or PIP, coverage: unlimited, $500,000, $250,000, $50,000 and a complete opt-out option for people with health insurance that covers vehicle accidents. Mandated PIP reductions would come with each level, ranging from a 10 percent rate reduction for unlimited coverage to 100 percent reduction for those who completely opt out. The state would be required to deny rates that dont meet the standard. The House is currently planning to vote on the proposal later Wednesday. Amendments to the 82-page bill are expected. Michigan is frequently ranked number one in the nation when it comes to auto insurance costs, with an average premium of $2,611 - 83 percent above the national average of $1,427, according to Insure.com. On Tuesday, the Senate passed legislation over protest from all but a handful of Democrats requiring insurers to provide at least three levels of PIP coverage: $250,000, $50,000 with an additional $200,000 rider for emergency room care and no personal injury protection coverage if the drivers health insurance covers auto-related accidents. Gov. Gretchen Whitmer said Tuesday shed veto the Senate version of the legislation. Under Michigans current no-fault auto insurance system, every driver is required to buy auto insurance. When an accident results in serious injury, lifetime medical expenses over $555,000 are covered by the Michigan Catastrophic Claims Association, which reimburses the persons auto insurer for those costs. To provide that, the MCCA currently assesses a fee of $192 per vehicle, although thats set to increase to $220 per vehicle starting July 1. The Senate plan would wind down the Michigan Catastrophic Claims Association - existing MCCA beneficiaries would continue to have coverage, but no one new would be added to the rolls, and require additional audits of the MCCAs operations. Under the House version as proposed, drivers who choose unlimited coverage under the MCCA would pay the full assessed fee, and those who opt out of unlimited coverage would pay a small portion of the MCCA fee to make up for shortfalls. The Michigan House cleared a plan that would give drivers the option to opt out of unlimited personal injury protection coverage and overhaul the states no-fault auto insurance policies early Thursday morning after hours of negotiation and debate. Shortly after 2 a.m. Thursday, the House voted 61-49 on House Bill 4397, which would allow drivers to pick from five levels of personal injury protection, or PIP, coverage options: unlimited, $500,000, $250,000, $50,000 and a complete opt-out option for people with health insurance that covers vehicle accidents. The bill would require insurers to reduce PIP rates from between 10 percent for unlimited coverage to 100 percent for complete opt-outs for five years, after which point rates would be subject to prior approval by state regulators instead of the current system that allows rate increases to take effect before review. House Republicans estimated drivers could save between $120 and $1,200 in savings for a driver paying $2,400 a year under the plan, and lauded the plan as much-needed relief for Michigan residents. The system we have clearly is not working - this bill finally fixes it, said bill sponsor Rep. Jason Sheppard, R-Temperance. The move comes on the heels of the Senates vote on a similar proposal to amend the states auto no-fault insurance laws, although the House plans inclusion of mandatory rate rollbacks and language to allow the Department of Insurance and Financial Services to set rules on preventing non-driving factors from determining rates were not referenced in the Senate bill. Three Democrats - Reps. Leslie Love and Karen Whitsett of Detroit and Sara Cambensy of Marquette - joined the entire Republican caucus in voting on the legislation. But other House Democrats argued the legislation didnt go far enough to protect consumers and criticized the rushed process of final negotiations. Many Democrats were specifically concerned the legislation did not go far enough to prevent insurers from using non-driving factors to calculate unfair rates for some Michigan residents. Rep. Rachel Hood, D-Grand Rapids, shared her familys own experience with the no-fault system on the floor, telling House members her husband Dave was hit by a car and needed multiple surgeries and several months of recovery. Without no-fault, we would have been unable to financially recover, she said. Without auto no-fault, our dreams would have been stolen by debt. House Democratic Leader Christine Greig, D-Farmington Hills, said House Speaker Lee Chatfield, R-Levering, looked in my eyes and lied when discussing the no-fault issue with her, leading to her mic getting cut by Republican leadership. Chatfield said House Republicans worked to include several ideas from Democrats and was disappointed to see so much opposition to the legislation. Its not immediately clear how the House plan will fare in the Senate, or what Gov. Gretchen Whitmer thinks of the measure. Whitmer said Tuesday she would veto the Senate plan as currently worded. As passed, drivers who choose unlimited PIP coverage would pay the full fee assessed by the Michigan Catastrophic Claims Association, and those who opt out would pay a small portion of the MCCA fee to make up for shortfalls. The bill also contains language meant to prevent auto insurers from paying more than other health insurers for similar medical services by setting up a fee schedule similar to workers compensation, and would create a unit within the Michigan State Police to investigate fraud. If signed into law, the House plan would go into effect six months after its passage. ANN ARBOR, MI Four years ago, Ann Arbor welcomed a series of canoe-themed public artworks to its riverside parks. Though originally intended as temporary installations, the four sculptures made from old canoes have proven popular, and they still stand along the Huron River. The city only owns three of them, though. One of the sculptures, Canoe Fan at Gallup Park, is on loan from Chicago sculptor Victoria Fuller. With the loan period expiring at the end of this month, its now at risk of coming down. Hoping to keep the sculpture in place, City Council voted 10-1 Monday night, May 6 to negotiate with the artist to purchase it. Fuller has offered to sell it to the city for $45,000, which she said was the cost of making it. This is an iconic piece of art that has found a place, and hopefully were able to negotiate something thats reasonable, said Council Member Ali Ramlawi, D-5th Ward, one of the proposals co-sponsors and council liaison to the citys Public Art Commission. If a deal is reached, a purchase agreement could go before council May 20. Council Member Jane Lumm, a 2nd Ward independent, is the lead sponsor. I have not been the biggest supporter of public dollars for public art, but I do believe that this is a unique circumstance and opportunity, she said. This piece is highly visible, its in a very accessible location in Gallup Park, and I do think its a positive enhancement to the park landscape thats clearly enjoyed by folks. Council Member Jack Eaton, D-4th Ward, joined in co-sponsoring the proposal, noting he also doesnt often support public funding for art, but in this case, hes enthusiastic about it. We know what it is. We know how well its accepted by the public, Eaton said. The purchase wasnt supported by the citys Public Art Commission, Council Member Julie Grand, D-3rd Ward, noted. Still in the spirit of hell having frozen over with both Council Member Eaton and Lumm co-sponsoring this resolution, I will be happy to support it going forward to the next meeting, Grand said. Council Member Jeff Hayner, D-1st Ward, was the only council member against it. Im not a fan, to use a pun, and Im not going to support this resolution, he said. I apologize to the art community. Four canoe sculptures were installed in spring 2015 as part of Ann Arbors Canoe Imagine Art project. Three were made with old canoes from the citys liveries and the city retained ownership after paying the artists $5,000 apiece. Fuller had Canoe Fan fabricated with other canoes she bought previously and told the city it cost her $45,000, so she declined to give up ownership for the $5,000 stipend, saying she hadnt understood the rules of the citys Canoe Imagine Art contest. So, a loan agreement was reached. Fuller, who has sculptures on display in other communities such as Chicago and Seattle, has a website for Canoe Fan, where she has been offering it for sale. She said there are a couple other potential buyers, but nothing has been decided. The hope was that someone could buy Canoe Fan and donate it, but that hasnt happened, Lumm said. Fuller said the city offered her $20,000 about a month ago, but she isnt willing to sell it for less than half her costs. I want to break even and then Ill be happy, she said, adding shed like to see it stay in Gallup Park. Its the perfect setting for that sculpture. If a deal isnt reached, the city plans to work with Fuller to have Canoe Fan taken down. I actually like this piece of art, said Council Member Elizabeth Nelson, D-4th Ward. The Public Art Commission is going to be puzzled to learn the council supports purchasing it, but thats a good thing, Ramlawi said. He believes the commission recommended not purchasing it for a few reasons, including the confusion that led to a loan-only installation, the original price tag being much higher and the citys ongoing debate over spending public dollars on art. Fuller said she bought the canoes from a company in Michigan about a decade ago, long before the Canoe Imagine Art project, and it took some time to get dents out before she worked with a fabricator to have the sculpture made using her design. She also said the project required the help of an engineer. A friend who lives in Ann Arbor then told her about the citys canoe art contest, though she didnt realize the artists selected were expected to make the sculptures with canoes donated by the city, she said. When her sculpture was chosen, she said, the $5,000 stipend only covered her costs to transport and install the piece. Council Member Kathy Griswold, D-2nd Ward, asked this week about the safety of the sculpture since children play on it. The citys staff recommends putting a do not climb sign next to it and conducting annual safety inspections. DETROIT -- A federal judge has ordered University of Michigan President Mark S. Schlissel to appear in his courtroom for a lawsuit settlement hearing on June 11. I want the president here, U.S. District Judge Arthur J. Tarnow said during a May 1 status conference. He will be here. The settlement conference relates to a lawsuit filed by a former student against the university last June. The student, identified as John Doe in court records, denies accusations that he had non-consensual sex with another female student in a dorm in 2017. The lawsuit, filed on the male students behalf by Bloomfield Hills-based Deborah Gordon Law, alleged the university put a hold on his official transcript and degree, despite no findings being made against him. It alleged UM refused to provide the male student with any form of hearing or cross examination, and accused the university of creating "an environment in which decision-makers at the University are explicitly and implicitly biased against males accused of sexual assault. Tarnow in June 2018 ordered the students transcript be released immediately, pending the resolution of the case. And in September 2018, the U.S. 6th Circuit Court of Appeals ruled in a separate, similar case that the University of Michigan may not find a student guilty of sexual misconduct in a he-said-she-said situation without giving the accused an opportunity to directly question the victim. The university a month later revised its student sexual misconduct policy to adhere to the ruling. Tarnow during the May 1 status conference said he wanted Schlissel to appear during settlement discussions revolving around changes to the universitys sexual misconduct policy. Attorney for the university Joshua W.B. Richards argued repeatedly that another university administrator would be capable of approving any changes to the policy without Schlissel being present, but Tarnow insisted UMs ultimate authority attend the discussions. The university filed an emergency motion Monday, May 6 asking the judge to reconsider. The motion was denied Wednesday, May 8. "This should be more important to him than almost anything going on at the university, Tarnow said May 1, according to a transcript of the status conference. "... I have no problem giving alternative dates. But I am not sure I would understand anything else being more important than resolving what is a hot button issue at every university in this country. ... I am asking that he participate so that the result is not another two years of arguing about discovery in this case and every subsequent case and arguing about timeliness of motions to dismiss or summary judgment or anything else legalistic when my sense is that both sides have a common goal and, that is, to provide fairness to the accuser and fairness to the accused." Tarnow indicated hed like to address broader issues surrounding UM sexual misconduct policy, including another lawsuit before him that involves the same attorneys. The judge also denied a request that Schlissel be able make his court appearance via telephone. No," Tarnow said. That is an easy question. Its not like you are a plane trip away. Tarnow said its important for Schlissel to be present because he is the ultimate authority to resolve issues regarding the universitys sexual misconduct policy. The judge ordered Schlissel to appear June 11, but left open the possibility of moving the settlement conference to June 12 or 13, if there is a compelling reason as to why the President is unable to appear on that date. PITTSFIELD TWP., MI - A man accused of threatening to kill an Ypsilanti Township womans daughter outside of a Meijer last week is facing seven felony charges. Melvin F. Sroufe, 57, was arraigned Thursday, May 9, in Washtenaw County 14A-1 District Court on charges of armed robbery, assault with intent to murder, attempted carjacking, assault with a dangerous weapon and three counts of unlawful imprisonment. Sroufe is accused of ordering an Ypsilanti Township woman to get into her vehicle, or he would kill her daughter, before taking her wallet from her shopping cart. Bond was set at $100,000, but Magistrate Elisha Fink noted Sroufe also has a parole hold with the Michigan Department of Corrections, meaning he would not be able to leave the custody of either the county or the state. In considering Sroufes bond, Fink said his criminal history was not alarmingly dangerous, although it is moderately extensive. She also Sroufes living situation and his history of failing to appear in court were taken into consideration in setting the bond. Sroufe previously told the judge he resides at the Delonis Center, a homeless shelter in Ann Arbor. This particular situation, however, involved a knife, Fink said. As I understand the basis of these charges, this involved violence and danger to the community. Sroufe has been to prison on four separate occasions dating back to 1980, Washtenaw County Prosecutor Andrew Childers said, pointing to extensive criminal history while arguing for a higher bond - $250,000. Fink ultimately decided Sroufes parole hold warranted a lower bond. Sroufe previously served time for forgery, resisting and obstructing a police officer and most recently in 2001, home invasion. This is an extremely dangerous situation, Childers said. The defendant is facing two life offenses, five other assault felonies and it did involve the placing of a knife on a 7-year-olds neck in broad daylight. The incident occurred when a 35-year-old mother was loading groceries into her vehicle in the parking lot of Meijer, 3825 Carpenter Road, around 1:45 p.m. on May 5, when Srouffe allegedly walked up, grabbed her 7-year-old daughter and put a large knife" to the girls throat, police say. Sroufe is accused of taking the womans wallet from her shopping cart and fleeing on foot, police said. The woman and her daughter were not injured, police said. Sroufe is due back in court for a probable cause conference at 8:30 a.m. May 21 and a preliminary exam at 9:30 a.m. May 28 in 14A-1 District Court. FLINT, MI -- One Genesee County judge has delayed preliminary examinations by six months for former Flint emergency manager Darnell Earley and former Department of Public Works Director Howard Croft, but another judge hasnt yet agreed to a similar request in another Flint water prosecution. Genesee District Court Judge Nathaniel Perry postponed exams for Earley and Croft until Nov. 11 after attorneys for the two men and Solicitor General Fadwa Hammoud requested the delay. District court Judge Jennifer Manley has not signed a similar stipulated agreement that would also delay the criminal case against Patrick Cook, a Michigan Department of Environmental Quality official, for six months even though his attorney and Hammoud asked for it. Before he was fired by Hammoud last month, former special prosecutor Todd Flood had laid out the bulk of his district court case against Cook, while only one witness has testified in the Croft and Earley exams. Hammouds office declined to comment on the requested delays, which have become common since Attorney General Dana Nessel put her in charge of the Flint water crisis investigations and the eight prosecutions that she inherited from Flood. Seven other cases, filed against current and former city and state officials, were resolved by Flood with plea agreements that resulted in no jail time or fines. Just last week, the solicitor general asked Genesee Circuit Court Judge Joseph Farah for a six-month pause in the case against Nick Lyon, the former Michigan Department of Health and Human Services Department director who was bound over to face a jury trial in August. The judge allowed a six-week delay before deciding whether to dismiss the most serious charges against Lyon and on Wednesday, May 8, turned down Lyons request to dismiss a misdemeanor charge of willful neglect of duty against him. The next Flint water defendants due in court at Nancy Peeler and Robert Scott, two DHHS officials who are accused of crimes related to the Legionnaires outbreaks. Both are scheduled to appear in Manleys court May 15. FLINT, MI- Flint Promise students will now be able to attend Kettering University and the University of Michigan-Flint. Flint Promise is a last-dollar scholarship program for students who graduate from Flint high schools. The scholarship goes into effect after all other available grants and scholarships have been applied, and helps cover up to 100 percent of a students tuition, books and fees. Previously, Flint Promise provided scholarships only for students to attend Mott Community College for up to three academic years to pursue a certificate or an associates degree. From there, students who earned an associates degrees or certificates from MCC were permitted to extend the scholarship for up to three more years at the UM-Flint to pursue a bachelors degree. Now, Flint Promise students will have the choice of attending Kettering University, UM-Flint or MCC immediately after graduating high school, provided they meet admission requirements. The Promise partnership is a tremendous example of how collaboration can make a significant positive impact community-wide, said Kristi Hottenstein, UM-Flint vice chancellor for enrollment management. We are proud to now become a full partner with the Promise Scholarship as part of our longstanding commitment to promoting a college-going culture and to make a University of Michigan education more accessible to Flint students. The additional scholarships will be available beginning Fall 2019. To meet the scholarship's eligibility requirements, applicants must: Graduate from a high school located within the City of Flint, or receive a GED in the City of Flint, in or after 2018. Reside within the City of Flint at the time of graduation. Graduate with a 1.8 GPA or higher. Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. Apply to a participating college or university. Be 24 years old or younger. Applications for the scholarship are now open for first-year students planning to enroll in the fall. The deadline is July 15. To apply or learn more about the program, visit theflintpromse.org. GRAND BLANC TOWNSHIP, MI-- A jury has sentenced a 49-year-old man to 45 years in prison for a double shooting outside a Grand Blanc Township bar that left one person dead. Darrell Patrick Hunter, of Grand Blanc Township, was found guilty of second-degree murder for shooting Vincedward Robinson, 35, outside of Kickers Bar and Grille on April 16. The Grand Blanc Township Police Department and my staff did a fantastic job in this case, Genesee County Prosecutor David Leyton stated in a press release. As a result, Darrell Hunter will be off our streets and in prison until he is at least 94-years-old ... Thats when Hunter will be up for parole. Township police responded around 1:45 a.m. May 6, 2018 to the bars parking lot, 5577 S. Saginaw St., for a shooting and noticed several people in the parking lot. Officers soon learned of the two victims with gunshot wounds. A 26-year-old woman and Robinson were injured during the incident. The woman was treated and later released from Hurley Medical Center in Flint, but Robinson died less than a week later at the hospital after being initially listed in critical condition. The shootings occurred after a fight among a group of people on an outdoor deck that spilled into the parking lot, Genesee County Prosecutor David Leyton previously said. Hunter fled the scene and was apprehended about two hours later by Grand Blanc Township police when he returned to the scene allegedly looking for his wallet, according to testimony at the trial. I want to give credit to the Grand Blanc Township Police Department for their hard work on this case, said Leyton following the conviction. Working together, we were able to see justice through and allow the victims family to feel a sense of closure." Hunter was found guilty of felony firearm second offense, felon in possession of a firearm, felon in possession of ammunition and carrying a concealed weapon. He was also found not guilty on one count of assault with intent to murder and three counts of felony firearms, according to circuit court records. SANDUSKY, MI In the midst of their trial, two Sanilac County siblings opted to plead guilty in the case of a woman slain in Michigans Thumb. Leobardo Torres-Castillo, 22, and Francisca Vargas-Castillo, 34, on May 2 appeared in Sanilac County Circuit Court and pleaded guilty to tampering with evidence and concealing the death of an individual. Vargas-Castillo also pleaded guilty to second-degree murder, while her brother pleaded guilty to assault with intent to do great bodily harm less than murder. The siblings pleaded on the third day of their trial. Both defendants are Mexican nationals in the U.S. illegally. The charges stem from the death of 42-year-old Bricia Flores-Rivera, who was also from Mexico and in the country illegally. In the early morning of Sept. 1, Sanilac County Sheriffs deputies responded to the 3900 block of Aitken Road in Flynn Township after a man reported Flores-Rivera, his girlfriend, was missing and that he found blood in their residence. The Michigan State Police Crime Lab was called in to assist at the scene as well as at a vehicle located later that morning in Marlette from leads developed by investigators. Police were led to Buel Township, approximately 20 miles from the original scene, and found Flores-Riveras body in a culvert on Sheridan Line Road. Flores-Rivera had been beaten and stabbed numerous times. The siblings are to be sentenced at 10 a.m. on June 26. VAN BUREN COUNTY, MI -- Test results from 12 monitoring wells at a former industrial site in Hartford found PFOS levels up to 124 times the Environmental Protection Agencys lifetime health advisory level. An ongoing investigation into groundwater contamination at the former site of Du-Wel Metal Products in Hartford will now include an investigation into PFAS, the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) told Hartford Township this week, according to a news release from the Van Buren/Cass County District Health Department. Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, known collectively as PFAS or PFCs, have been found contaminating water supplies and the environment in Michigan and elsewhere. The compounds accumulate in the human body and break down slowly in the environment. On Tuesday, May 7, EGLE received test results from 12 monitoring wells identifying levels of perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS), a PFAS compound, as high as 8,690 parts per trillion on the grounds of the former plant, and as high as 285 ppt nearby the plant. The current EPA lifetime health advisory level for PFOS and PFOA combined is 70 ppt. Exposure to the per- and polyfluorinated chemicals has been tied to cancer, thyroid disorders, developmental delays and other adverse health effects. The city of Hartfords municipal drinking water system showed no detection of PFAS when tested in August of 2018, according to the release. Schools on private wells tested in Van Buren County also did not detect PFAS. There is currently no data showing PFAS contamination in any private residential well, but further investigation is required, the release states. There are 50 residential drinking water wells northwest of the Du-Wel site that are currently being monitored for volatile organic compounds. Homeowners in the investigation area will be contacted by phone or in person by EGLEs contractor, Global Remediation Technologies, Inc. this week to have their well tested for PFAS. Tests will be expedited by EGLE and results are expected by the week of May 20, according to the release. Initial results will determine if further testing is pursued. Township and state officials will hold a town hall meeting regarding the investigation from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Wednesday, May 15, at Hartford Federated Church, 65418 Red Arrow Highway. As a precaution pending well testing results, the township is providing a water station at the Hartford Fire Department, 436 E. Main Street, for the 50 residential well owners within the investigation area. The Du-Wel site is being added to the larger PFAS investigation being conducted statewide by the Michigan PFAS Action Response Team (MPART), DEQ spokesperson Scott Dean confirmed Thursday. MUSKEGON COUNTY, MI The debate between supporters and opponents of Planned Parenthood continued Tuesday afternoon when both camps waged a war of words at a raucous Muskegon County board committee meeting. Adding to the controversy was one commissioners call to support the creation of anti-abortion legislation in the state House or Senate that would mirror other heartbeat abortion bills recently approved in other states across the nation. Planned Parenthood also gave commissioners notice that it would stop offering sexually-transmitted disease/HIV testing services in Muskegon on June 28, a month before its deadline to leave the Muskegon County Health Department. And in a virtually unheard of move, two commissioners left their seats to debate one another via the publics podium. The board of commissioners voted in April to evict Planned Parenthood from its space in the countys Department of Public Health building that it leased for $1,500 per year. County officials said the health department needs the space to expand its own STD/HIV testing facility and for an immunization clinic. County leaders gave the organization 90 days, until the end of July, to leave the premises. Since 2010, the location has offered federally-mandated family planning services to Muskegon County residents, as well as low-cost healthcare services and sexually-transmitted disease testing. Muskegon County Public Health had asked commissioners to terminate the contract with Planned Parenthood so the department can reclaim the groups clinical space at 209 E. Apple Ave. Planned Parenthood officials have not announced plans to relocate. On Tuesday, May 7, several advocates and volunteers with Planned Parenthood attended the county boards human services committee meeting to request more time for the organization to move out. The issue of Planned Parenthoods eviction was not on the agenda, and the committee did not vote on whether to extend the eviction deadline. The only item on the agenda referring to Planned Parenthood was the receipt of a letter from Lori Carpentier, Planned Parenthood of Michigans president and CEO. The letter stated that the organization would end its services agreement with the county to provide STD testing on June 28. Planned Parenthoods allies spoke during public comment to chide commissioners who voted in favor of the eviction, saying their vote had done a disservice to low-income and marginalized residents living in Muskegon County. The organizations allies also believe Republican Commissioner Zach Lahring, a vocal opponent of the organization, would make a motion to rescind the 90-day window and evict them immediately, according to a Facebook event created to rally supporters. Lahring made no such motion at the meeting, but he did ask the county to adopt a resolution in support of any heartbeat anti-abortion bill if ever introduced by state lawmakers. Heartbeat anti-abortion bills passed by at least eight other states prohibit an abortion as early as six weeks into a pregnancy when a heartbeat can be detected. State lawmakers in 2014, 2015 and 2017 introduced heartbeat bills, but they failed to pass in 2014 and 2015, and the 2017 bill remains a proposed piece of legislation, according to a legislative tracker on Rewire.News, a non-profit news outlet. The state Legislature has this year introduced and debated several other anti-abortion bills. Two of them recently approved by the House Families, Children and Seniors Committee would criminalize doctors who perform a type of abortion pro-life advocates characterize as dismemberment abortion. The medical procedure is a dilation and evacuation, or D&E, sometimes used in the second trimester of a pregnancy. But the mere mention of such a bill from Lahring in a meeting filled with Planned Parenthood supporters only added to the controversy. Several allies of Planned Parenthood groaned, while Lahrings constituents who also attended the meeting clapped and cheered. No other county commissioner opted to support Lahrings resolution, which angered some anti-abortion activists in the room. Its a disgrace, said Malinda Reese Pego, a Holton Township resident who supported Lahrings resolution. Im completely embarrassed. Some of Lahrings supporters also said Planned Parenthood had politicized a non-political issue. But Michelle Burley, of Fruitland Township, said it was Lahring who had politicized the issue first. Burley said Lahring rallied his supporters to the April meeting when Planned Parenthood was voted out. Tuesdays meeting took an odd turn when, during public comment, Lahring left the dais to address his own colleagues from the podium used by the public to address commissioners. Lahring used his 2-minute comment period to again voice his opposition to Planned Parenthood. He also repeated a previous claim that Planned Parenthood may have operated illegally because it advocated for political action in its small space in the county health building. Lahring had said over the course of several meetings this year that the clinic had a stack of cards on the front desk asking patients if they want to receive updates from the organizations political action foundation. So, Ill bring (forward) the lease agreement," Lahring said. "Planned Parenthood shall not permit its premises to be used in any other manner (than) providing building space for the provision of Title X family planning services only, Lahring said. Title X is a government-funded grant program administered by the state, which provides access to family planning services, particularly for lower-income women. The county health department is required by law to make these services available. In response, Democratic Commissioner Marcia Hovey-Wright similarly left her spot on the dais to counter Lahrings claims. Hovey-Wright disagreed with Lahrings insinuation that the clinic had somehow broken the law by advocating for political change. While there are cards in the clinics waiting room asking if patients want information on the organizations advocacy, they do not violate the law, she said. Hovey-Wright continued by saying that, according to Title X, a delineated space (for advocacy in Planned Parenthood clinics) is allowed. The amount of space (the cards) took up is in compliance in terms of the advocacy material, she said. So, theres no violation here according to the funding they receive. As the meeting wrapped, longtime Commissioner John Snider, a Republican, told MLive/Muskegon Chronicle that he had only once seen a commissioner leave their post to make a public comment. Snider added that the previous issue that goaded a past commissioner to make a public comment at their own meeting centered around an issue much less controversial than Planned Parenthood. ROBINSON TOWNSHIP, MI A state study in Ottawa County has turned up two PFAS hot spots where the toxic chemical may have entered groundwater, and identified firefighting foam as a possible source. A hydrogeological investigation, prompted by the discovery of PFAS in the drinking water at Robinson Elementary and in private wells, found groundwater near the school and a local fire station contained high levels of the chemicals, according to a news release from the Ottawa County Department of Public Health. The highest concentration of PFAS found in groundwater during the investigation was detected on Robinson Township property north of the fire station, according to the release. It had total PFAS of 2,142 parts per trillion and a combined concentration of PFOS and PFOA of 643.61 ppt. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has set a PFAS lifetime health advisory of 70 ppt for the individual PFAS chemicals PFOS and PFOA. PFAS was also detected in groundwater at Robinson Elementary with a total concentration of PFAS of 409 ppt and a combined concentration of PFOS and PFOA of 61 ppt. Soil and groundwater testing identified PFAS at the school and the (Robinson Township Fire Department) property, which indicates a source of PFAS was likely historically released on both properties, the release states. A distinct source of PFAS has not been identified, according to the release. Class B firefighting foam, which is known to contain PFAS, was investigated as a potential source and no other potential sources have been identified, according to the release. The fire department has not possessed or used Class B foam, nor is there any historical knowledge of the foam being applied in the area, according to the release. The foam currently used does not contain PFAS. Class B foam has been available since the 1960s and could have been applied during an era that predates the knowledge of anyone currently associated with the fire department, according to the release. While we may not be able to identify one exact source, we are here to support the community with information as we work through the process, said Nick Bonstell, emergency management director with the Ottawa County Sheriffs Office. Work to determine the extent and source of PFAS in the area is expected to continue, according to the release. During the investigation, the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE, formerly MDEQ) tested groundwater at 10 sites and soil at four sites. All 10 groundwater sites were contaminated and three of the soil samples were contaminated, according to the release. Two groundwater samples from monitoring wells near the fire department exceeded the EPA advisory for PFOS and PFOA combined. The hydrogeological study was expected to determine environmental risks, such as the breadth and depth of the PFAS plume, in which direction its moving, and how close it is to other aquifers and bodies of water. Additional investigation is needed to assess the groundwater to the area north and east of the fire station, the release states. Timing of the next steps of the investigation will depend on funding, according to the release. State testing during fall 2018 found that the drinking water at Robinson Elementary in Ottawa County contained levels of PFAS above what is considered safe for human health. That led to the establishment of the 120th Avenue PFAS Study Area in Robinson Township and testing of 66 drinking water wells, one of which exceeded 70 ppt for PFOS and PFOA combined. However, many wells contained PFAS. EGLE conducted the hydrogeological investigation in response to the elevated levels of PFAS discovered in the study area private wells. The study was conducted primarily in the area of the school, fire department and township hall. The school has operated on bottled water since PFAS was discovered in October 2018. Grand Haven Area Public Schools administration has indicated that a permanent solution should be in place in time for the 2019-20 school year. Robinson Elementary drinking water was found to have PFOS and PFOA, at a combined level of 119 ppt and total PFAS of 171 ppt in October 2018. It is the only school of 461 tested by the state to have PFAS levels greater than the lifetime health advisory. "We are actively working on system design for an on-site water filtration system, Superintendent Andrew Ingall said in a written statement. These systems are a long-term, cost-effective solution for the district. Similar safety precautions have been taken at Robinson Township buildings, according to the release. Drinking water is the primary way PFAS can get into the body, according to the release. Washing hands and other skin contact is not considered a health concern as PFAS does not move easily through the skin. SPRING LAKE, MI A 13-year-old is hospitalized after being struck by a vehicle in Spring Lake Thursday morning. The crash occurred around 7:20 a.m. May 9 on Savidge Street near Prospect Street in the village of Spring Lake, according to a news release from the Ottawa County Sheriffs Office. Rain at the time may have been a factor in the crash, according to the news release. The teen stepped into the road and was struck by a westbound Subaru, according to the release. The teen and driver, a 41-year-old Spring Lake Township man, both reported it was dark and raining and they did not see each other prior to the crash, the release states. The teen was transported to DeVos Childrens Hospital and reported in stable condition with a possible pelvis injury, according the release. The crash remains under investigation. In addition to the sheriffs office, agencies responding to the scene were Spring Lake Fire/Rescue and North Ottawa Community Hospital EMS. CARO, MI A Thumb-area man who prosecutors say violated parole, stole several vehicles and shot a police officer has accepted a plea deal to resolve some of his criminal cases. Joshua M. Rosebush, 30, on Monday, May 6, appeared in Tuscola County Circuit Court and pleaded no contest to single counts of unlawfully driving away a motor vehicle and tampering with an electronic monitoring device. The charges are five- and two-year felonies, respectively. Police and Michigan Department of Corrections officials have said Rosebush on Jan. 3 cut off two electronic tethers that he had on his ankles. He then stole a vehicle in the area of Vassars West Maple Street, a theft that was reported at 6:20 a.m., authorities alleged. Several larcenies from vehicles were also reported in the vicinity that morning. Police found the vehicle a few hours later in a ditch but learned a 2007 Ford pickup truck had been stolen. Though Michigans Absconder Recovery Unit searched for Rosebush for weeks, he managed to stay on the lam and evade capture. Early Jan. 22, police say Saginaw Township Police Officer Jeff Koenig pulled a white Dodge Ram over for driving with its headlights off. Koenig did not know Rosebush was the driver, police say, or that the truck had been stolen. The encounter turned violent when, prosecutors allege, Rosebush shot Koenig twice with a stolen .380-caliber pistol. Rosebush fled the scene before backup arrived, eventually dumping the truck in Saginaw, police allege. Police have said Rosebush stole two more vehicles as he made his way south. The afternoon of the shooting, Shiawassee County Sheriffs Detective Lt. Scott Shenk spotted Rosebush driving a van east on Interstate 69 and followed him. Rosebush pulled over, jumped from the van, assumed a crouched position, and aimed a handgun at Shenk, the lieutenant testified in a Feb. 21 hearing. Shenk fired two rounds, one striking Rosebush in the right side of his face. Rosebush was arrested and taken to Sparrow Hospital in Lansing. Rosebush is facing 28 charges, the most serious are two counts of assault with intent to murder, a life offense. All matters have been consolidated for Saginaw County prosecutors to handle. Rosebushs trial in Saginaw County Circuit Court is scheduled to start June 25. Rosebushs sentencing in Tuscola County is pending. LANSING, MI -- Bills signed into law by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer Thursday prevent a persons property from being permanently seized by police without being convicted of a crime. Whitmer signed Senate Bill 2 and House Bills 4001 and 4002, which each passed both chambers of the Michigan Legislature with broad bipartisan support. Before the reforms were signed, law enforcement agencies could permanently take a persons private property if they suspect it had been connected to a controlled substance violation, regardless of whether the person is charged with a crime. I know that many of our citizens have not been treated fairly or offered the protections they deserve but that ends today, Whitmer said. Sponsored by Reps. Jason Wentworth, R-Clare, and David Lagrand, D-Grand Rapids, HB 4001 and HB 4002 were the first bills introduced in the legislative session. Sen. Peter Lucido, R-Shelby Township, sponsored SB 2. The new last place the burden on the government to prove a forfeiture is justified. If it is not, the property must be returned to the owner within 14 days. They require a criminal conviction or plea before police seize any assets worth less than $50,000, and place tighter restrictions on forfeiture of more valuable property. The state must notify a person that property has been seized and allow them to file a written claim objecting to forfeiture. The new laws require a prosecuting attorney to review a seizure when the owner consents to forfeiting their property. A forfeiture proceeding could still go forward without a criminal conviction or guilty plea if no one claims the property or the defendant cannot be located and arrested. Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel said civil asset forfeiture has bothered her for a long time. It deprives citizens of due process, she said, and created bad relationships between law enforcement agencies and the communities they serve. I think that those injustices will now be made right, Nessel said. Lucido, a licensed attorney, said the laws are long overdue." Other legislators credited him with spearheading the effort to pass reforms that had eluded the legislature for years. No one should profit from criminal activity, but to take someones goods and deprive them before theres been due process delivered is an injustice to the system," Lucido said. LaGrand said more reforms are needed to increase efficiency and equity in the criminal justice system. The former Kent County prosecutor said the legislature has a depth of expertise" needed to address those issues. None of us want a system thats different for the poor than it is for the affluent," he said. The bills will take effect in 90 days. The state was legally allowed to retain the property, or sell it and give the proceeds to the law enforcement agency that seized the property. According to a press release from House Speaker Lee Chatfield, R-Levering, and Democratic leader Christine Greig, D-Farmington Hills, law enforcement agencies reported confiscating $13.1 million in cash and property through civil asset forfeiture. Charges were not filed in 736 cases, and people who were found not guilty forfeited their property in more than 200 cases. In America, you are innocent until proven guilty," Chatfield said. "That phrase means something. It is a strong, consistent, and reliable foundation for our justice system and something that sets our nation apart from many others around the world. It is an ideal we should fight hard to uphold and strengthen, and it is something the people who sent us to the Capitol expect us to fix. LANSING, MI -- Democratic Gov. Gretchen Whitmer threatened to veto two auto-insurance reform bills passed by each chamber of Michigans Republican-majority legislature, setting the tone for negotiations expected to begin this weekend. The GOP-controlled House voted early Thursday morning to give motorists the option to opt out of unlimited personal injury protection coverage as part of an auto insurance reform plan House Speaker Lee Chatfield, R-Levering, said would ensure rate reductions for Michigan drivers. Whitmer told reporters she would not sign that bill, nor similar legislation adopted by the Senate Wednesday, without stronger guarantees for consumer protections and financial relief. These bills dont cut it, Whitmer said. They do not guarantee that rates are going to go back, and the public would be furious if something was passed, signed into law and they were told that problem was fixed and it wasnt. Thats exactly what happened with the last gas tax. Both sides of the aisle agreed that legislation should guarantee rate reductions for all Michigan drivers. Chatfield said the House bill passed Thursday does just that, by allowing drivers to opt out of the existing requirement for unlimited personal injury protection and mandate rate reductions for five years based on coverage level. Whitmer disagreed. The governor did not use the word veto, but said she would not sign a bill that preserves a corrupt system" allowing insurance companies to base rates on non-driving factors like address and gender. Whitmer said the bills do not guarantee rates will roll back for everyone. The House bill includes language allowing the Department of Insurance and Financial Services to set rules preventing non-driving factors from determining insurance rates, but the Senate bill does not. Whitmer indicated the bill should include strong language to prohibit insurers from using non-driving factors. The fact of the matter is, Im done playing games, Whitmer said. The people of our state expect real solutions that work to their benefit. Detroit Democrats Reps. Leslie Love and Karen Whitsett voted with the entire Republican caucus to support the House bill after sponsoring amendments and to add the rate rollback and non-driving factor language. Detroit residents pay nearly twice the state average annual premium, according to a University of Michigan study. Chiatfield said he was disappointed to see opposition to the House bill, but is optimistic the bill will gather consensus in the Senate. The reform that we passed last night is a good reform that delivers rate relief to all people in our state and gives them the hallmark plans (Democrats) have been asking for, Chatfield said. They asked for it. We delivered. They voted no." Chafield said Michigan residents are fed up with paying the highest auto insurance rates in the country. The average annual auto insurance premiums in Michigan is $2,693, the highest rate in the nation, according to a 2019 analysis by The Zebra, an insurance industry research firm. Low-income communities are subject to even more extreme rates. House Republicans estimated drivers could save between $120 and $1,200 in savings for a driver paying $2,400 a year under the plan, and lauded the plan as much-needed relief for Michigan residents. This is the single largest issue that is burdening our residents with high costs and its important that we deliver real rate relief to them," Chatfield said. The House bill was referred to the Republican-controlled Senate Thursday, where members voted to bring it straight to the floor for a vote next week. Chatfield and Senate Majority Leader Mike Shirkey, R-Clark Lake, said they will spend the weekend looking at the differences in the two bills. Senate Minority Leader Jim Ananich, D-Flint, was optimistic that both parties could find compromise on auto insurance reform. However, he lamented that the Senate and House bills were rammed through without adequate time for committee meetings and public comment. There are still improvements that need to happen, he said. Were grown ups, we can sit in a committee room. My members and their members can discuss changes and we can get a better bill. I dont know why we would settle for anything other than that. Shirkey said motorists save a bucket of money under the House plan, but both bills accomplish the same goal of driving down the cost of auto insurance. Shirkey said he would be delighted to discuss the issue with Whitmer, but hesitated to say he would make changes based on her input. Anything that increases choices and reduces the cost of insurance for Michigan drivers, everybody should be applauding, Shirkey said. The Senate majority leader said rejecting bills that would save Michigan drivers money could hurt Whitmer politically, but said he is not trying to force the first-term Democrat to veto the bills. Theres not a bone in my body thats trying to do that, he said. Ananich said Senate Democrats are ready build a bill that passes the governors desk. I think we could announce something on the porch of the Grand Hotel at the Mackinac Policy Conference if people are serious about finding a solution," he said. If its just about jamming something through and trying to play a game of chicken with the governor, its unfortunate, but I think theres an actual path here for the first time. Meanwhile, Michigan Republican Party Chair Laura Cox accused Whitmer of playing partisan games. In a Thursday statement, Cox said Whitmer is unwilling to compromise with the GOP-led Michigan legislature. The ball is still in the legislatures court, Whitmer said. They can either negotiate in good faith and send me a bill that actually protects consumers while we also continue to negotiate a budget that fixes the damn roads, or they can send one of the current bills to me ... and we can start all over again." John Beilein is aiming high and looking far away with his latest scholarship offer. Nimari Burnett, a five-star 2020 guard who plays for Prolific Prep in California, reported a scholarship offer from the Wolverines this week. Blessedly to receive an offer from the University of Michigan! #gowolverines pic.twitter.com/YENeBuIlCE Nimari Burnett (@NimariBurnett) May 7, 2019 Burnett is rated the No. 23 player in the 247sports composite. Should Michigan land him, he would be the second-highest rated Michigan recruit since 2000. The only higher-ranked player would be Glenn Robinson, the No. 17 player in the class of 2012. Michigan joins a long list of 20 schools that have offered Burnett, including Louisville, UCLA, Ohio State and Arizona. The offer comes after Burnett took a reported visit to Ann Arbor in February. Burnett averaged 21.6 per game playing a national schedule for Prolific Prep in 2018-19. Through four games on the Nike EYBL summer circuit, he's averaging 23.8 points per game. Michigan currently has one commit in its 2020 class, from four-star Toledo guard Zeb Jackson. Four men aged between 15 and 51 have been arrested in connection with the murder of Northern Irish journalist Lyra McKee, who was gunned down by the self-styled New IRA in Derry last month. The four suspects are currently being held in Belfast and questioned under terrorism laws by Northern Irish police, following a number of raids at houses around Derry on Thursday morning. McKee, 29, was shot in the head while covering a riot in the city on April 18. The dissident republican group later claimed responsibility for the killing, saying it had accidentally shot the young woman. Three suspects, two men aged 18 and 19, and a 57-year-old woman, were previously arrested in connection with McKees death but later released without charge. Also on rt.com Police release CCTV footage of suspects in journalist Lyra McKee murder case (VIDEO) The New IRA has been linked to a recent series of violent attacks, including several parcel bombs sent to buildings in London and Glasgow. Representatives of the group have blamed Brexit and the possible return of a hard border between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland for inciting its recruitment of young supporters. to RT newsletter to get stories the mainstream media wont tell you. Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz scolded members of the EU, who are too eager to cash in on the blocs funds, while having large debts. To fix the union, it needs a new treaty altogether, Kurz believes. The bold remarks were made by Austrias chancellor right ahead of the EU leaders summit in Romania, where he is expected to table his proposals. In order to reserve the EU, the bloc needs a new fundamental agreement instead of the Lisbon Treaty, Kurz believes. Many, above all the younger heads of government, know that we must change the European Union if we want to reserve it, Kurz told Austrian broadcaster ORF on Thursday. Various heads of government among the liberals but also within the [conservative] European Peoples Party have a similar view to me. Kurz did not elaborate on who these like-minded politicians are exactly, while leaders of the EU countries seem to be quite silent about the prospects of any amendments to the blocs treaty. The changes, proposed by Austrias chancellor include introduction of penalties for countries that have been taking in way too many migrants and have large and growing debts, while leeching from the bloc. We are talking here about countries that gladly take our money and are fully prepared to cash in, Kurz stated. While he did not name any country in particular, the jab appears to be aimed at the southern members of the EU, such as Greece and Italy, as well as Hungary, given earlier statements by Kurz. Austria has recently clashed with all the aforementioned countries over migrant handling, budget, and rule of law issues, respectively. We need a new treaty with clear sanctions against member states that increase debt, penalties for countries that do not register illegal migrants and wave them through, as well as tough consequences for violations of the rule of law and liberal democracy, Kurz said earlier this month. He has also called for shrinking the European Commission and ending what he called the travelling circus of the EU Parliament. Members of the Parliament convene for one week every month in Strasbourg, France and in Brussels for the other three weeks. The moving back and forth costs the union some 114 million ($127.54 million) a year. While Kurz called for closure of the Strasbourg headquarters, the proposal was firmly opposed to in Paris. Also on rt.com EU centrists set to lose MEP seats to Eurosceptics, Russia again accused of meddling Given the cumbersome process of changing the EU treaty, that requires unanimous agreement of all the member states and even referendums in some countries, its quite unlikely that Kurzs proposals will flesh out anytime soon. In any case, that definitely wont happen before the upcoming EU Parliament elections, scheduled to take place between May 23 and 26. The elections are expected to be a major success for Eurosceptic parties, opinion polls indicate, and pro-EU forces have already sounded alarms that it might paralyze the bloc altogether. Think your friends would be interested? Share this story! The rise of the right-wing in Europe may be a tired cliche at this point. However, a new Danish party has courted fresh controversy for hiring some distinctly un-PC candidates, as the country goes to the polls next month. Stram Kurs (Hard Line) will run for election for the first time in June. The party pushes a combined message of small-government libertarianism and ethnonationalist utilitarianism. The latter translates as a ban on Islam, an immediate withdrawal from refugee conventions, and the deportation of all asylum seekers and any non-western persons. The party also favors a crackdown on Danes who help alien enemies undermine Denmark, presumably charities and NGOs. Hungarys Viktor Orban spearheaded a similar crackdown with his Stop Soros Act last year. Party leader Rasmus Paludan has drawn attention to himself with a number of high-profile stunts, like leading protest marches through Muslim ghettos, burning copies of the Koran, and encouraging his followers to draw pictures of the prophet Mohammed. Prime Minister Lars Lkke Ramussen has condemned Paludans publicity stunts as meaningless provocations. Although anti-immigration and nationalist parties have gained ground in nearly 20 European countries since the beginning of the refugee crisis in 2015, no mainstream organizations have dared call themselves ethnonationalist. Perhaps the closest mainstream analog to Stram Kurs is Dutch firebrand Geert Wilders Partij voor Vrijheid (Party for Freedom or PVV). Like Stram Kurs, the PVVs policies focus almost entirely on the de-Islamization of the Netherlands, coupled with a smattering of small-government and tax-cutting initiatives. Like Wilders, Paludan has faced legal consequences for his speech, having been handed a 14-day jail sentence in April for alleged racism towards a spokeswoman for the Black Lives Matter movement. Unlike Stram Kurs, the PVV has been a viable opposition party in the Dutch parliament for over a decade, and is currently the second-largest party in the Netherlands. Stram Kurs, meanwhile, is polling at just over two percent, beating only the countrys Christian Democrats and businessman Klaus Riskr Pedersens self-titled party. Controversial candidates Still, the party has punched above its weight when it comes to grabbing newspaper headlines. On Wednesday, Paludan announced that 81-year-old professor Helmuth Nyborg will stand for election with Stram Kurs. Paludan said that Nyborg is an internationally highly respected researcher on IQ and cognitive ability. Opponents say Nyborgs opinions on racial IQ differences are abhorrent. It goes without saying that if many people come to Denmark from countries where the inhabitants have a lower intelligence quotient, then over time we get a lower average intelligence quotient, he told the Jyllands-Posten newspaper in 2010. Nyborgs views and scientific background lend weight to an argument Paludan has made since he entered politics in 2017. The average in IQ in Somalians is much lower than in us, Paludan told Ekstra Bladet last year. It does not make them subordinates that on average they have poorer brains than Danes. There is just a difference between races and there is no need to lie about it. There are many from Africa who do not understand very much because their IQ is 80. Nyborgs views are controversial, and the professor is currently facing academic discipline for a 2013 paper setting out those views entitled The Decay of Western Civilization. However, African and Middle Eastern countries have been ranked at the bottom of IQ tables, and some researchers have pinned the difference on race and genetics, albeit under intense criticism. A willing public? How receptive is Denmark to an open ethnonationalist party that embraces controversial figures like Professor Nyborg? The answer is probably somewhat. Unlike its uber-liberal neighbor Sweden, Denmark has reacted to the influx of refugees and migrants with increasing hostility. The coalition government made up of the center-right Venstre and further-right Danish Peoples Party has passed laws requiring refugees to hand over jewelry and valuables to finance their stay, banned the burqa in public, and planned to ship rejected asylum-seekers to an uninhabited island in the Baltic sea. If you are unwanted in Danish society, you should not be a nuisance to ordinary Danes, Immigration Minister Inger Stjberg stated when announcing the island plan. They are undesirable in Denmark and they must feel it! Stjberg has been a key author of her governments anti-immigration policies. In March 2018, she marked the passing of her 50th anti-immigration measure by celebrating with a cake decorated with fruit, the Danish flag, and the number 50. The government has also targeted settled immigrants, who it says often live in parallel societies. Last July, as part of a series of measures aimed at eradicating immigrant ghettos, the government announced tougher criminal penalties, lower benefits, and mandatory integration classes for those living in these neighborhoods. Despite the anti-immigrant sentiment coming from the Danish government, voters are not so sure. The center-left Social Democrats are leading in the polls at 25 percent, compared to Venstres 20 percent and the Danish Peoples Partys 11.6 percent. The Social Democrats have begun to move further right on immigration, and as a result could have plenty of coalition-forming opportunities open with the center and center-right parties. Also on rt.com Denmark to ship rejected migrants to remote island: Will of people or govt going far right? (DEBATE) As long as Stram Kurs manage to capture more than two percent of the vote, the party looks set to enter parliament for the first time next month. In the runup to the election, the newcomers could push the existing right wing even further right as nationalist party Vox did in Spain recently or siphon the hardline vote away from the Danish Peoples Party. Such a fragmentation of the right was also seen in Spain last month, and ultimately helped left-wing Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez party consolidate its power in parliament. Meanwhile, Paludan and Stram Kurs continue to grab column inches. The party also took on board as a candidate a prison guard who Paludan said can offer professional knowledge of the consequences of immigration. As Paludan builds his anti-immigration dream team, next months elections will reveal whether the Danish electorate still wants to continue the countrys rightward shift. Asylum applications in Denmark dropped by 84 percent between 2015 and 2018, and without a cohort of immigrants to rail against, a return to centrism is not unlikely. Think your friends would be interested? Share this story! A joint statement issued Thursday by the EU and Foreign Ministers of France, Germany and the UK reaffirmed their collective commitment to the Iran deal. It also strongly hints that potential US intrusion on the issue is unwelcome. We call on countries not party to the JCPOA to refrain from taking any actions that impede the remaining parties ability to fully perform their commitments, the statement outlined. On Wednesday, Tehran made the shock announcement that it would no longer adhere fully to commitments made as part of the original nuclear deal with the P5+1 (the permanent members of the UN Security Council and Germany). Also on rt.com EU rejects ultimatums, says its still committed to Iran nuclear deal after Tehran scaledown The EU statement comes after the Trump administration responded to Tehran by imposing a raft of new sanctions on entities trading in steel, iron, copper and aluminium and related products with Iran. The decision was taken exactly one year after the US withdrew from the Obama-era Iran deal. Also on rt.com New Iran sanctions: Trump threatens anyone trading aluminum, iron, steel & copper On May 8, 2018, Trump withdrew the US from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, commonly known as the Iran deal, which promised relief from financial sanctions on Iran in exchange for curbs to its nuclear weapons program. Think your friends would be interested? Share this story! In the latest chapter of the US crackdown on whistleblowers, a 31-year-old intelligence contractor is facing charges for leaking 17 secret documents to an unnamed journalist, which could result in up to 50 years in prison. Daniel Everette Hale was arrested and charged under the Espionage Act on Thursday for illegally disclosing top-secret and secret documents to the media, according to the indictment. While the paperwork was initially filed in March, it didnt result in an arrest until May 9. Hale is set to make his first appearance in federal court in Nashville, Tennessee on Thursday. The documents Hale is accused of leaking are reported to have contained a presentation on counterterrorism operations, details of a US military campaign against Al-Qaeda and information on the US militarys technical capabilities. While serving in the air force, Hale was assigned to work with the National Security Agency (NSA) between 2009-2013. In April 2013, he met a reporter at a book tour in Washington, according to the indictment. The journalist was reportedly interested in Hales experience working with drones and wanted him to tell his story about working with them at a screening of a movie on the topic. The next year after several meetings, Hale agreed to print out six classified documents and allegedly handed them over to the reporter. In total, Hale is accused of printing 36 top secret documents, 17 of which ended up being provided to the reporter and published. Although the media-source is not named in the indictment itself, it is widely reported to be the Intercept, the same news site that had the massive trove of documents provided by NSA whistleblower Edward Snowden. The media outlet has not yet commented on the arrest, but it would mark the third time in two years the Justice Department has targeted an Intercept source. In 2015, the Intercept published The Drone Papers, which cited a cache of secret documents detailing the inner workings of the US military's assassination program, which they said had been provided to them by a whistleblower. The Trump administration has carried out several such prosecutions against whistleblowers. Last month, WikiLeaks co-founder and editor Julian Assange was charged for allegedly assisting Chelsea Manning crack a computer password in order to steal classified documents. Think your friends would be interested? Share this story! People from across the world have taken part in annual Immortal Regiment marches, carrying photos of their relatives and commemorating WWII heroes in emotional Victory Day festivities. Of course, the biggest Immortal Regiment march is always in Moscow (a record one million people, including President Vladimir Putin, marched in the Russian capital in 2018) but from New York to London, Tokyo and Melbourne, smaller parades are held across the world every year for the May 9 celebration of Soviet victory over Nazi Germany. This year, a group of Russians stationed at the Vostok research station in Antarctica even managed to get in on the action, posting photos from the South Pole in fairly chilly -68 degree Celsius weather conditions. In Berlin, marchers made their way from the Brandenburg Gate to the Soviet War Memorial in the Tiergarten public park. Londoners also took to rainy streets on Thursday to celebrate, carrying Russian and Soviet flags along with portraits of family members who fought in the war. Memorial marches were also held in Hong Kong, Tokyo, New York, Melbourne, Buenos Aires and Athens, among others. Russian embassies posted photos of gatherings at the Soviet war memorials in Austria, Malta and Denmark. ... while Russian news channel Vesti captured video from Immortal Regiment marches in Tokyo. The Immortal Regiment began as a local event in the Siberian city of Tyumen in 2007 and has since ballooned across Russia and the rest of the world into an annual tradition commemorating those who fought in the war. Like this story? Share it with a friend! Massive crowds took to the streets in Moscow with portraits of their relatives who fought and defeated the Nazis during WWII. It is a Victory Day tradition in Russia, where the war left almost no family untouched. Countless people, some of them sporting replicas of Soviet military uniforms, walked together through the capitals main street and entered the iconic Red Square where the Victory parade concluded a few hours earlier. They carried old photographs of their relatives, who participated in WWII, many waving flags of Russia and the USSR. That said, US and British banners also flew high in Moscow, with people paying tribute to the Western allies in the battle against the Nazis. President Vladimir Putin joined the rally, holding a portrait of his father who volunteered to join the military and was severely wounded while fighting to lift the German blockade of Leningrad. Even the heavy rain and hail, which hit Moscow later in the day, wasnt enough to make people disperse. Many knew the weather forecast and had umbrellas and raincoats at the ready. Launched in 2011, the Immortal Regiment tradition continues to grow in strength and has gained popularity internationally. More than 10 million people took to the streets in Russia on May 9, 2018, setting an all-time record. Think your friends would be interested? Share this story! EU Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker said he was missing UK Prime Minister Theresa May at the informal summit of EU countries in Romania, where they except the UK got together to show unity amid Brexit turmoil. The EU bigwigs gathered in the Romanian city of Sibiu on Thursday ahead of the bloc's parliamentary elections, scheduled for late May. While the meeting is largely informal and no major decisions are expected from it, its goal is clear EU leaders are standing together. Or, at least, appear to be doing so. We will talk about our strategic agenda for the future and will agree a declaration which will make clear that, regardless of our political differences, we all believe all member of the European Union that acting together is better, German Chancellor Angela Merkel said ahead of the gathering. One of the major sources of instability within the bloc the UK, entangled in its messy Brexit process did not attend the event. While the EU leaders insisted that Brexit was not on the agenda, PM Theresa May has seemingly given them breathing room and stayed away. Some, however, were still missing her despite all the painstaking and rather fruitless Brexit talks the EU and the UK have been engaging in over the past months. When asked by reporters if he wished May was at the event EU Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker at least half-jokingly admitted it. I'm missing her, Juncker said, shrugging slightly. Also on rt.com Oh, f*** off!: EU diplomats share their true feelings on Brexit negotiations in new documentary Think your friends would be interested? Share this story! Russia is celebrating Victory Day with the traditional military parade on Red Square. The event is used to demonstrate troop discipline and the most advanced military hardware in the countrys arsenal. May 9 is one of the biggest state holidays in Russia, marking the defeat of Nazi Germany in World War II. It is both about commemorating the sacrifices made to achieve that victory, and showing Russias military strength. The parade in the heart of Moscow is the biggest among dozens held throughout the country. The Russian military usually presents its newest hardware to the public during the parades, but one of this years picks is as civilian as can be. The defense minister and the commander of the Army will be riding a pair of brand-new Aurus cabriolets. The luxury car brand was developed as the domestic ride for senior Russian officials, from the president down. Another newcomer is the AK-12, the new Kalashnikov assault rifle, which underwent extensive testing and overhaul in 2016 and was signed for mass production last year. Spectators will also witness a fly-by of the modernized A-50U airborne early warning and control plane, weather permitting. If you like this story, share it with a friend! Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 9) VERA Files President Ellen Tordesillas suspects that her news organizations effort to fact-check President Rodrigo Dutertes statements may have landed her in the alleged conspiracy against the chief executive. Baka doon siya nagagalit kasi in our fact checking [Maybe our fact-checking angered him.] We track statements of people of influence, this includes government officials and we debunk them with factual evidence, Tordesillas told CNN Philippines The Source on Thursday. She said Duterte has a penchant for making unverified pronouncements, adding that VERA Files has monitored one speech where he supposedly said eight falsehoods. In 2018, VERA Files reported that Duterte is their most fact-checked figure, accounting for 20 percent of their fact-checks. The 11-year-old news organization said Duterte made a lot of false claims on his war against drugs, made different claims for different audiences and repeated false claims, sometimes in the same speech. READ: Rappler tells Duterte: Fake news peddler from within Malacanang Thats worrisome ha kasi as President, he bases his policies on information that he has. So kung mali yung information niya, dapat iko-correct natin. [So if his information is wrong, we should correct it,] Tordesillas said. VERA Files is one of three fact-checkers of Facebook in the Philippines, along with news website Rappler and international news wire Agence France Presse. Malacanang has once complained of the social media giant's fact-checking partners in the country, saying that its partnership with "anti-administration" fact-checkers is "unacceptable." VERA Files and Rappler, among other personalities, have landed on the headlines after Malacanang accused them of being involved in a plot to discredit Duterte. Both news organizations and its leaders have denied the claims, stressing that the Palace has not provided evidence to back up its allegations. Malacanang has repeatedly said that it does not need to prove its own claims. Aside from fact-checking, Tordesillas said she may have been included in the matrix because of VERA Files effort to prove that Duterte and his daughter, Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte, have joint deposits and investments in BPI. We demand accountability from those who are in power and we also try to promote accuracy in journalism. So these are things na [that] when you do these things, may matatamaan. [someone will be hit,] Tordesillas said. So kung matatamaan [if it hits] those who are in power, maybe thats the reason why Malacanang is not so happy with the kind of reporting that we do. But thats democracy. Thats the role of the media. No connection except to one Magdalo member In a briefing at the Malacanang Palace on Wednesday, Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo tagged Tordesillas in the supposed plot to discredit Duterte over an opinion piece she wrote on the Ang Totoong Narcolist videos a five-part video series where Dutertes family and close allies were accused to be deep into the illegal drug trade. But Tordesillas said she merely stated that she thought the videos were professionally done, but never vouched for the veracity of the claims in the videos. She added that Panelo neglected to mention that she penned another opinion column in favor of Duterte after senatorial candidate and former Special Assistant to the President Christopher Bong Go bared his back to debunk the allegation in the video that he has a tattoo indicating membership to a drug syndicate. Doon pa lang, nawalan na ng credibility si Bikoy. [Just on that, Bikoy lost his credibility,] Tordesillas said. Bikoy is the hooded man in the Ang Totoong Narcolist videos. He has revealed himself to be Peter Joemel Advincula, who sought legal aid from the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) to file charges against the supposed members of the syndicate. The IBP has denied him help. READ: PNP uncovers more criminal charges vs man claiming to be 'Bikoy' His surfacing at the IBP headquarters in Pasig City came after the arrest of Rodel Jayme, the self-confessed webmaster of Metrobalita, the website where the Ang Totoong Narcolist videos were first posted. READ: DOJ files inciting to sedition raps vs Rodel Jayme Tordesillas said she does not know Jayme. She added that she also does not know Cocoy Dayao and Bong Banal, both of whom are being linked to her. She admitted, however, that she does know an Arman Pontejos, who was linked to her as a business associate in the matrix released by Malacanang. Hes an IT expert. Hes a member of the Magdalo. He helped me in my blog before, Tordesillas said. She added that she no longer works with him as he is busy with his own company. Tordesillas also laughed off her connection to former Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda, saying that her friendship with the Aquino administration official turned sour after she began being critical to former President Benigno Noynoy Aquino III. Exposing to danger Halos lahat ng presidente akala nila trabaho ng media gawin silang pogi. Sinasabi namin, hindi ganun ang papel ng midya kasi you have Office of the Press Secretary to do that for you, Tordesillas said. [Translation: Almost all presidents think that medias job is to make them look good. We say that thats not medias role because you have the Office of the Press Secretary to do that for you.] While she belittled the matrix as "laughable," she said that she worries that Malacanangs irresponsible expose on the supposed plot against Duterte would expose those named to danger. READ: PH falls in press freedom index But despite this, she said she would not be silenced. Huy hindi mo kami makukuha sa ganun [Hey, you wont get us through that.] If your purpose is to silence us, no it wont do, Tordesillas said. READ: PH media groups call for courage in the face of repression She said she is considering all legal options on the table to fight back the governments charges against her, including filing for a writ of amparo which would grant her court protection. READ: More groups run to SC for protection from state red-tagging Duterte, meanwhile, said he would not press charges against those implicated in the alleged plot against him. Moscow will see through joint projects with Tehran despite mounting pressure from Washington, the Russian Foreign Ministry has said, urging European countries to maintain ties with Iran and abide by the nuclear deal. The recent decision of Tehran to suspend some of its obligations under the landmark agreement officially known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) is understandable, given the US hostile actions against the country, the ministry said in a statement on Thursday. The move is perfectly legal, as the agreement allows the country walk away from some of its obligations if other signees do not stick to the deal. At the same time Moscow, warned Tehran against making further steps towards scrapping the deal altogether, while urging other participating countries basically, European ones to fulfill their obligations. On Wednesday, Iran reduced its obligations under the deal and vowed to take further steps on uranium enrichment in 60 days if the EU does not act to help its banking and oil sectors. The European Union, however, has already branded Tehran's move as an ultimatum and promised to assess Iran's compliance with the deal. Russia itself is looking forward to continuing works on joint projects with Iran, including in the nuclear energy sphere, the ministry said. The projects include the ongoing construction of the nuclear power plant in Bushehr, as well as refurbishment of the Fordow uranium enrichment plant. Moscow condemned the new batch of US sanctions against Iran, that targeted its metallurgy sector, urging other countries to maintain economic ties and trade with Tehran despite the pressure. Also on rt.com New Iran sanctions: Trump threatens anyone trading aluminum, iron, steel & copper A similar statement was issued by Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif, who called upon the EU to uphold its obligations instead of just pressing the country into compliance with the agreement. Instead of demanding that Iran unilaterally abide by a multilateral accord, the EU should uphold obligations including normalization of economic ties, Iran's top diplomat tweeted. Think your friends would be interested? Share this story! US President Donald Trump has doubled down on his threat to crank up the tariffs on China, saying that Beijing trampled on the draft deal negotiated with the US. China vowed to retaliate with a tit-for-tat response. Speaking at a rally in Florida on Wednesday, Trump went into yet another fiery tirade on China, accusing it of not heeding the provisional trade agreement it had reportedly struck with the US. They broke the deal. They cant do that. So theyll be paying. If we dont make the deal, nothing wrong with taking in more than $100 billion a year, Trump said, referring to a new tariff hike on Chinese goods that is set to come into effect on Friday at midnight. The tariffs on $200 billion worth of Chinese goods will increase from 10 percent to 25 percent, the US Trade Representatives Office announced. Also on rt.com US raises tariffs on $200 billion worth of Chinese imports from 10% to 25% The measure will impact the import of technical appliances, such as vacuum cleaners, computer modems and routers, as well as furniture, lighting, and construction materials. The timing of the hike, which is bound to fuel the smoldering trade war between Beijing and Washington, is curious since it coincides with a high-ranking Chinese delegation visit to Washington aimed at soothing the differences over a 150-page draft deal. The Chinese delegation, led by Vice Premier Liu He, is set to touch down in the US on Thursday for two-day talks. As he broke the news to a pumped-up crowd of supporters, Trump mentioned the upcoming visit by Liu. So theyre flying in, the vice premier tomorrow is flying, good man, but they broke the deal. They cant do that. So, theyll be paying, Trump reiterated. China indicated that it would roll out punitive measures of its own in response to the hike. The Chinese side deeply regrets that if the U.S. tariff measures are implemented, China will have to take necessary countermeasures, Chinas Commerce Ministry said. In the run-up to the new round of negotiations between US and Chinese trade officials, Trump has ramped up his criticism of Beijing. Earlier on Wednesday, Trump threw Democratic presidential frontrunner Joe Biden into the mix, tweeting that Chinas reluctance to seal a deal and its attempt to renegotiate the terms is due to sincere HOPE that Beijing will soon be dealing with Biden or one of the very weak Democrats and thereby continue to ripoff the United States (($500 Billion a year)) for years to come.... Bidens campaign fired back. The former Obama VPs deputy campaign manager, Kate Bedingfield, accused Trump of so far only punishing US farmers, small business owners& consumers with his hardline approach to China. The US aggressive rhetoric against such oil-producing majors as Venezuela and Iran may potentially send global oil prices skyrocketing. However, a surge in price for crude is seen by Washington as a big threat to domestic policy. In April, the White House announced the expiration of waivers on the sanctions it had previously re-introduced against Iranian oil sales. The step was followed by deploying a carrier strike group and bomber task force to the Middle East, aimed at sending a clear and unmistakable message to the Islamic Republic and its regime. Separately, the US administration ramped up sanctions on Venezuela in an effort to topple the government of President Nicolas Maduro and install US-backed self-styled interim president Juan Guaido instead. The ban targets Venezuelas key source of income oil exports. The White House also urged foreign companies and banks to avoid dealing with the PDVSA under threat of secondary sanctions that might be applied to them. Also on rt.com Oil prices tumble over Washingtons sharp rhetoric against China & Iran The sanctions have the potential of increasing damage both to the countries the White House does not like, including Iran, Venezuela and some others, as well as the entire global oil market, according to Alessandro Bruno, an independent international affairs expert. The risk now is that a sudden movement in the Persian Gulf, near the Strait of Hormuz could trigger a military confrontation and cause oil prices to spike to levels that would cause serious damage to the global economy even a global recession, the political analyst said in an interview with RT. Bruno added that global prices for crude, which have not yet exceeded $75 per barrel, may be boosted by limiting sources of supply due to the penalties against oil producers. The sanctions policy may reportedly increase procurement costs and reduce refining margins, meaning that fuel prices at the pump for consumers, as well as the price of all goods will increase. Mamdouh Salameh, an international oil economist and professor, sees US rhetoric against Venezuela and Iran as a sign of an indispensable superpower whose indispensability is eroding fast. Also on rt.com Saudi Arabia to 'stabilize' oil market after US ends sanction waivers on Iranian crude Riyadh The US wants to maintain its hegemony as a unipolar power against rising other multipolar powers like Russia and China, the expert told RT, stressing that the strategic partnership between Moscow and Beijing will shape the 21st century. According to Salameh, American threats against Iran and Venezuela will have a great deal of impact on oil prices and global supplies. The first is that the global oil market has already factored in a decline in Venezuela's production long before the sanctions. Furthermore, US-backed regime change has not succeeded yet, he said. The second reason is that US sanctions on Iran have so far failed to impact significantly on Iranian crude oil exports. I believe that by sending an aircraft carrier group to the Persian Gulf, the US is waging a psychological war on Iran. A potential hike in oil prices wont work for his America First strategy, according to Bruno, who stresses that the very type of person who made it possible for Trump to win the 2016 election, who voted for him, would be the first to suffer. Also on rt.com Top 19 historical oil disruptions, and how No.20 will shock markets According to John Hall, chairman of UK-based consulting company Alfa, the oil market currently enjoys relative stability. The US president probably does not have an ongoing plan to deal with the situation that he has created and may well change his thinking with time and therefore reaction day to day is short term, the expert said. He stressed that potential military action would lead to a crisis and further escalation of oil. But, as we have seen before, oil prices over the $80 level are not sustainable and consumers tend to cut back and alternative energy sources pick up, Hall said. For more stories on economy & finance visit RT's business section Thousands marched on the abandoned village of Khubbayza to commemorate the 71st Nakba that forced Palestinians from their homes in the lead-up to the establishment of the Israeli state in 1948. The march of return took place at 1:30pm local time Thursday in northern Israel and a festival was held in Khubbayza itself afterwards. Thousands of Arab citizens of Israel, including a number of Arab politicians, attended the march, which was organized by the Association for the Defense of the Rights for the Internally Displaced Persons in Israel. Attendees waved Palestinian flags and chanted. "For more than 25 years, we have been defending the right of return and consolidating it through the annual march, which is gaining increasing public momentum, reinforcing our belief in our Palestinian presence and confirming our rejection of all alternatives, the Association for the Defense of the Rights of the Displaced said, Arab48 reports. Khubbayza was raided by Jewish forces a few weeks after the 1948 war and was later razed by the Jewish Nation Fund. It remains unpopulated today and is surrounded by fields. Palestinians and their supporters march for the right to return to the lands they lost amid the establishment of the state of Israel when at least 760,000 Palestinians became displaced, and the homes lost by those who were displaced in the 1967 war. The anniversary of the Nakba is May 15, but a number of events are held on Israels Independence Days of May 8 and 9. If you like this story, share it with a friend! President Donald Trump said that former Secretary of State John Kerry should be charged under the Logan Act, an 18th century law, for his conversations with Iranians, blaming him for messing up his communication with Tehran. Speaking to reporters in the White House, Trump apparently blamed Kerry for the administrations lack of communication with Iran, and suggested the former diplomat be prosecuted for his own contacts with the Islamic Republic. What Id like to see with Iran, Id like to see them call me, Trump said. John Kerry speaks to them a lot, and John Kerry tells them not to call. Thats a violation of the Logan Act, and frankly he should be prosecuted on that. As a private citizen, Kerry met with Iranian Foreign Minister Javad Zarif last year to discuss outstanding issues related to the 2015 nuclear pact which both helped to negotiate. The meeting outraged President Trump. The United States does not need John Kerrys possibly illegal Shadow Diplomacy on the very badly negotiated Iran Deal, the president tweeted. He was the one that created this MESS in the first place! Also on rt.com 'He created this mess!' Trump warns John Kerry against Iran deal meddling Passed in 1799 under the John Adams administration, the Logan Act criminalizes unauthorized negotiations with foreign powers with which the United States has a dispute. In only two cases has anyone ever been charged under the Act, the last time in 1853, and neither resulted in a conviction. During the special counsel probe into Trumps alleged ties to Moscow, investigators threatened Trump campaign staffers George Papadopoulos and Michael Flynn with violations of the Logan Act for their interactions with foreigners, but neither were ever charged under the law. Think your friends would be interested? Share this story! Donald Trump is reportedly irritated that John Bolton failed to deliver a quick and easy victory in Venezuela. But one US journalist says it proves the US president is taking direct orders from Russian President Vladimir Putin. Last week, Washingtons chosen guy to take power in Venezuela, Juan Guaido, tried and failed to stage a military coup. Senior US officials, like National Security Advisor John Bolton, were first cheering him and celebrating the imminent liberation of the Venezuelan people. Then they were struggling to find an explanation for President Nicolas Maduro remaining in power. The embarrassing flop didnt dissuade Washington from continuing their backing of Guaido, of course. But President Trump is reportedly quite frustrated with not getting what he was promised by Bolton and Co. The Washington Post printed a lengthy piece about it on Wednesday, citing anonymous insiders. The White House is preparing for the long haul now, expecting Maduro to eventually fall under the crippling sanctions imposed by the US on Venezuela, the newspaper said. Seems plausible. But there is a more thrilling explanation that scratches all the right places of a Trump-despising mind. Hint: the Russians are to blame. According to the Young Turks host Cenk Uygur, the change is direct evidence that Trump is carrying out Putins orders which he conveniently received during last Fridays phone call. The phone conversation itself triggered a media meltdown last week, with MSNBC host Rachel Maddow expressing deep sympathy for John think of him as a human being Bolton, whose job of toppling a foreign government must be so difficult under mercurial Trump. Also on rt.com MSM melts down as Trump talks Venezuela with Putin and feels same way Uygur apparently shares Maddow's dot-connecting approach to the Trump-Russia conspiracy theory. But for some reason many of his readers failed to see the logic behind his startling discovery, even as he was doubling down on it. If you like this story, share it with a friend! The US aircraft carrier Abraham Lincoln, deployed to the Middle East three days ago as a warning against what the Trump administration called credible threats from Iran, passed through Egypts Suez Canal on Thursday. The carrier strike group and bomber task force is intended to send a clear and unmistakable message that the US is fully prepared to respond to any attack from Iran, US National Security Advisor John Bolton said, announcing the deployment although he gave no details about the alleged potential threat. Some reports suggested that the US had been acting on a vague tip from Israeli spy agency Mossad which had been relayed to the US on April 15, but some unquestioning media reporting on the credible threat from Iran was met with suspicion from many analysts and other journalists. Also on rt.com CNN peddles Pentagon talking points on credible threat from Iran Twitter doesnt buy it Iran has dismissed the announcement of the carriers deployment as old news and pointed out that the carriers movement was known about before it was announced. A spokesman for Irans National Security Council called the decision an unskillful use of a worn-out event to wage psychological war against the country. Despite the provocative military manoeuvring, Bolton said the US was not seeking war with Iran, but the Trump advisor has long been on record promoting US military action against Tehran and both he and US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo have been ramping up anti-Iran rhetoric in recent months. Like this story? Share it with a friend! The Venezuelan Embassy in Washington DC was plunged into darkness after the US authorities shut down power in the building. The anti-coup activists hunkered down inside say they are not leaving despite the blackout. After weeks of tense standoff between the 'Embassy Civilian Protection Collective' and supporters of US-backed opposition leader Juan Guaido outside the Venezuelan diplomatic compound, the US authorities attempted to drive the temporary occupants out by depriving them of electricity. In a statement on Twitter posted by one of the group's members, independent journalist Alex Rubinstein, an activist says that the loss of electric power won't coerce them into abandoning their mission to protect the embassy from a takeover by Juan Guaido appointees. "We expected this, we've prepared for it and we are not living," the activist is seen saying in total darkness, his face lit by a candle. He compared the shutdown to the alleged US attacks on Venezuela's infrastructure. "It's ironic that the US government attacked Venezuela's electric grid and now they are attacking the embassy of Venezuela's electricity," he said. Caracas previously blamed the US for inciting sabotage and waging an "electricity war" against Venezuela after it suffered several country-wide power outages in a row due to some of its key infrastructure being crippled. The activists in the embassy are staying put despite the cut-off. "We are not leaving. We are gonna resist. We are going to stay in solidarity with Venezuelan people and elected government of Venezuela," the activist in the video says. The blackout was reportedly ordered by Guaido's 'ambassador' to Venezuela, Carlos Vecchio, who announced the move to loud applause and cheers from the crowd outside the building. "We have decided to give them a bit of the experience of living in Venezuela under the failed socialism of Maduro. As of this moment they will not have electric power. Next step: your exit ," Vecchio tweeted. Last week, the US State Department urged the activists to vacate the premises, calling them "trespassers" and claiming that self-proclaimed "interim president" Guaido "has legal authority" over the embassy. On Friday, Republican Congressman Scott Tipton asked US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo to evict the Collective. However, Washington has made no attempt to forcibly remove them. The Collective says they were given permission by the Venezuelan Foreign Ministry to move in after the last diplomats loyal to Maduro left for Caracas late April, having been expelled by the US. Since the botched coup attempt on April 30, tensions outside the embassy have been running high. Pro-Guaido protesters have made a human chain to stop people from sneaking food and basic supplies, such as tampons and toothbrushes, into the embassy. Several activists, including Code Pink's national co-director, were briefly detained as they attempted to throw food and supplies to the besieged members of the Collective from the outside. The Secret Service has been on stand-by at the embassy to prevent possible skirmishes between the two rival groups. Think your friends would be interested? Share this story! Irans foreign minister has issued a scathing response to the EUs joint statement on the crumbling nuclear pact, saying the bloc has been bullied by the US for a year and needs to uphold its obligations under the deal. Earlier Thursday, the EU and Foreign Ministers of France, Germany, and the UK issued a joint statement reaffirming their collective commitment to the Iran deal while also strongly hinting that US intrusion on Iran is unwelcome. Also on rt.com EU warns 3rd parties not to impede Iran deal negotiations That statement came a day after Tehran announced it would suspend some of its commitments under the 2015 deal, a year after the US pulled out of the agreement. Other signatories to the deal have 60 days to negotiate with Iran over its concerns, including that the European members of the deal havent done enough to uphold their own end of the deal and protect Iran from US sanctions. US President Donald Trump responded to Wednesdays announcement by introducing a raft of new sanctions on anyone who trades with Iran in iron, steel, copper, aluminum, and related products, escalating the economic blockade of Tehran. Also on rt.com New Iran sanctions: Trump threatens anyone trading aluminum, iron, steel & copper Like this story? Share it with a friend! Over 70 years after being lost at sea, on their way to join the fight against Nazi Germany, two US-made tanks have been restored just in time to feature in WWII victory celebrations alongside their Russian counterparts. The M3 and M4 tanks were discovered off the Russian coast in the Barents Sea last July, before being pulled out by servicemen from Russias Northern fleet. Needless to say, after spending decades underwater, the once impressive machines were a little worse for wear. The tanks were originally intended to be shipped through the Arctic to the northern city of Murmansk, as part of the US "lend-lease" program with the Soviet Union. The journey, however, was extremely perilous as Nazi ships and U-boats attacked and destroyed many of the convoys, killing around 3,000 allied sailors in the process. Also on rt.com Steel muscles of Moscows V-Day parade: Clouds prohibit air show, but armor still stunning (PHOTOS) Although over half a century has passed, the Russian servicemen made sure that sacrifice was not made in vain. After recovering what was left of the tanks, they began the painstaking process of taking them apart, cleaning them piece by piece, replacing parts and even getting the weapons systems back online. Despite the extreme difficulty of the restoration, one cant argue with the impressive results. Thanks to their efforts, the two allied tanks were finally able to complete their over 70-year journey and join over 50 other historical and modern vehicles just in time for Victory Day celebrations in central Murmansk. Victory Day is one of the largest and most important holidays in contemporary Russia. Its celebrated in cities across the country and internationally. Despite stormy weather in Moscow, tens of thousands took part in this year's march honoring family members who gave their lives during the war. Like this story? Share it with a friend! Real estate brokerage firm 360 Realtors on Thursday said it has acquired a US-based company Risa Realty to sell Indian properties in the American market and is targeting a total sales booking of Rs 750 crore this fiscal. After this acquisition, Gurugram-based 360 Realtors will enter the US property market and set up new offices in major NRI-centric markets, including New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Boston and Washington. "The founders of Risa Realty have been active in the US market for more than a decade and command a dominant position in servicing the NRI market with their India Real Estate needs," 360 Realtors MD and CEO Ankit Kansal told PTI. The acquisition will help 360 Realtors understand the US market better, devise an effective market penetration strategy and enter new uncharted territories, he added. "Likewise, by aligning with 360 Realtors, Risa Realty can get access to the state-of-art technology, tie-ups with leading Indian developers, extensive manpower and wider geographic reach," Kansal said. He declined to comment on the financial details of the deal. "Risa Realty will merge with a new entity which we have set up in USA, named 360 Realtors LLC," he said. Kansal said the company is targeting to sell Rs 750 crore worth of properties in the US market in this financial year. Risa Realty sold properties worth Rs 250 crore last year. 360 Realtors posted a 46 per cent growth in revenue to Rs 152 crore during the previous financial year. The company, which has over 50 offices across India and overseas with a sales force of more than 1,000 people, sold 6,000 units worth Rs 4,100 crore in 2018-19. In value terms, around 30 per cent of the sales came from non-resident Indians (NRIs), especially from the Middle East countries. It sold 4,023 units worth Rs 2,682 crore in 2018-19. "This will be a win-win situation for both. Over the years, we have developed unique expertise on the US NRI market...By associating with a big brand like 360 Realtors and leveraging their vast resources, we can multiply our reach in the USA market," Rippy Sethi of Risa Realty said. The US market has over four million NRIs with high disposable income. 360 Realtors competes with the likes of PropTiger.com, ANAROCK, Square Yards, Investor Clinic and Wealth Clinic in the organised property brokerage business, which has now come under the ambit of the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act. Chilli produce (Representative Image) China announced on May 9 that it will import chilli meals from India, providing a much needed export outlet to the product. A protocol has been signed with Chinese customs officials in this regard. Chilli meal is the residue left after oil is extracted from chillies. It is widely used as an industry input in manufacturing chilli sauce and other similar products. Chilli is the largest exported spice from India, and China has become one of the major buyers over the last few years. India is the world's largest producer, consumer and exporter of chillies. According to official data, red chillies are grown across India on 7,92,000 hectare of land in Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra. The crop is planted in August and September, and is harvested in March and April. India has been pushing for market access for agricultural and processed food products to China. Beijing is now committed to provide market access to India after a gap of more than 13 years. Last year, the country allowed market access to three Indian food products - mangoes, grapes and rice. "But even among these, China later introduced further subcategories for rice, which meant basmati varieties faced difficulties in exports," a senior official from Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority said. The meeting took place in the backdrop of the ongoing trade war between the US and China. Official from the country took note of India's concerns regarding the long-existing trade imbalance and requests for market access for Indian products and services. China also promised to address these concerns through the broad framework provided by successive joint economic groups and the Five-Year Development Programme for Economic and Trade Cooperation between China and India, which was signed in September 2014, an official said. AdiGro Aviation, part of the London-based AdiGroup, is set to bid for distressed airline Jet Airways on May 10, the last day for bidding. Group founder Sanjay Viswanathan said he has the backing of key investors. "We are certainly putting in a bid," Viswanathan told Moneycontrol over the telephone from London. Viswanathan is also Managing Partner of Adi Partners, which is part of AdiGroup, a global management and investment advisory firm. This will be the first investment in aviation for the group, which also has interests in technology and fintech. The bid will come as a respite to Jet Airways stakeholders, amid increasing doubts if the airline will attract any investors after its key assets were given away to peers. However, Viswanathan clarified that the firm hasn't aligned with Jet Airways founder Naresh Goyal, or with the group of investors, including British entrepreneur Jason Unsworth, who are also interested in the airline. Earlier, Unsworth had claimed that Adi Partners was part of a consortium that included him and investment firms such as Future Trends Capital and Redcliffe Capital. Reports had also linked Adi Partners with Goyal. "We are on our own and have strong investors. We are not in any pact with Goyal or Unsworth. We are not aligned with them. We dont know them and we are not in touch with them. We have clarified this to SBI Caps," said the Chairman and Managing Partner of AdiGroup. SBI Caps is overseeing the bidding process. Other possible bidders include Etihad Airways, TPG Capital, Indigo Partners and National Investment and Infrastructure Fund (NIIF). Reaching out Viswanathan, who held senior positions at Infosys Sonata Software and GE/Genpact before founding AdiGroup, said the company has reached out to Etihad Airways for a possible partnership to turnaround Jet Airways. Etihad owns 24 percent stake in the cash strapped airline. "We are very keen to work with Etihad. It's a key partner for the airline. If Etihad wants to continue with Jet Airways, we would love to partner with them to re-engineer Jet Airways," said Viswanathan, who has met with senior officials at the Abu Dhabi-based airline. He also had high praise for Cramer Ball, the former CEO of Jet Airways, who has been spearheading Etihad's bid for the Indian airline. "Cramer has been a high-impact leader and we have only heard terrific things about him. We would love to have him on the board of Jet Airways," Viswanathan stated. Jet Airways as an asset The AdiGroup founder is not perturbed much over Jet Airways' The AdiGroup founder is not perturbed much over Jet Airways' assets, including slots and aircraft, being given away to its rivals in the country. "We see it differently. There is a natural reset that is happening in the business that makes Jet Airways more attractive to us. Jet Airways had grown opportunistically and needed rationalisation of its routes and optimisation of its fleet," Viswanathan said. He added that some slots and fleet of Jet Airways won't be needed. "We won't get into some of the bad habits of the past," said the entrepreneur, who was quick to add that the airline's management and employees have been 'phenomenal.' "We have also met senior government officials and are delighted with the support from them and the lender group to transform Jet Airways," he said. Viswanathan added that he wants to run "Jet Airways as a combination of hospitality and balance sheet business," and not like a lifestyle business because of which many airlines have failed. Jet Airways' liabilities There have been concerns that a bidder will have to come with deep pockets as Jet Airways owes banks over Rs 8,000 crore. Reports suggest its total liabilities could mount to over Rs 20,000 crore. But Viswanathan said that the amount is lower than that. "We know that is not the kind of money that is needed." When asked about the criticism of lenders, who didn't put in more funds leading to suspension of Jet Airways operations, Viswanathan said: "Lenders are getting a lot of unfair flak. And its not their fault. They have been forgiving and given Jet Airways a lot of space. We would love to work with them in turning the airline around." The Tata vision The investment in Jet Airways is part of AdiGroup's strategy in the transportation sector. Reiterating that AdiGroup will come with veteran aviation professionals and investors, Viswanathan said, "We are not a typical private equity firm, but professionals who have long-term vision to deliver impact in India, just like the Tatas do. We have model LPs (investors) who are aligned with us in taking a 100-year view in geographies and sectors we operate in. My vision is for Adi Group to be viewed as the 'Tatas of 21st century,'" he stated. The Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) has asked the Serious Fraud Investigation Office (SFIO) to begin a probe into Jet Airways on suspicion the promoters siphoned off money. The investigation follows after the MCA opened a preliminary enquiry into the company and carried out an inspection of Jets books. Moneycontrol was the first publication to report on the beginning of MCAs probe. A source in the MCA told Moneycontrol that the ministry found evidence of siphoning off of money from the company. In particular, it wants to look into several instances where Jet had written off investments in various subsidiary companies without any apparent reason. The MCA also wants the companys financials probed why the company suddenly turned in a loss in fiscal year 2018 after posting a profit for a couple of years. This was despite the company receiving fund infusions in the form of Etihads investments twice during the period. Sources said another reason the Jet case assumes importance and warrants an SFIO probe is the recent turn of events, when the company shut down its operations, leaving the fate of about 20,000 staff hanging in the balance. The MCAs Western Regional Director headed the enquiry and inspection into Jet. Correction: An earlier version of this article erroneously said the company was under suspicion for siphoning off of funds. This has been changed to the promoters. The error is regretted. Reliance Brands, a subsidiary of Reliance Industries, has signed a definitive agreement with C Banner International, a Hong Kong-listed company, to acquire 100 percent shares of toy retailer Hamleys. Moneycontrol broke this story on April 17. The size of the acquisition was not disclosed. Founded in 1760, Hamleys is the oldest and largest toy shop in the world with 167 stores in 18 countries. In India, Reliance operates Hamleys franchises, from 88 stores across 29 cities. The move is set to place Reliance as a dominant player in the global toy retail industry, the release said. Calling it a long cherished dream, Darshan Mehta, President and CEO of Reliance Brands, said, "We have built a very significant and profitable business in toy retailing under the Hamleys brand in India. This worldwide acquisition places Reliance on the frontline of global retail." Reliance Industries Ltd. is the sole beneficiary of Independent Media Trust which controls Network18 Media & Investments Ltd. Representative image live bse live nse live Volume Todays L/H More Highlights: - CPC volumes impacted by import restriction; sharp sequential improvement in profitability- High-cost inventory continues to be a drag; margin expected to normalise by end of H1 CY19- Better realisation in advance materials and surge in cement volume key positives- Capex projects on track; new SEZ facility to be optimally utilised------------------------------------------------- Rain Industries Q1 CY19 earnings was impacted by weak performance in carbon and advanced materials segments, but was partially offset by higher volume growth in the cement segment. Both carbon and advanced materials segments witnessed lower volumes, realisations and increased raw material costs. Also read: Goa Carbon: Unfavourable supply-demand balance weighs on Q4 margin Source: Company Source: CompanyValue chain of carbon products (67 percent of Q1 CY19 Sales) -- CPC (calcined petroleum coke) and CTP (coal tar pitch) -- continues to witness several challenges. First, given the import ban on CPC, the company is not able to undertake blending in India. This doesnt augur well for the capacity utilisation of the companys CPC plant in the USA from where it imports, blends in India and then sell it to customers in a cost-effective manner. Second, due to new CPC capacity commissioning in China there is an adverse impact on the supply-demand balance, leading to lower pricing trend for CPC. Third, dynamics for the aluminium end-market are not encouraging, which puts further pressure on the carbon product prices. Smelter restart in North America has been delayed and demand from China and Europe had slumped, particularly from the automobile industry. Fourth, the company continues to hold high-cost inventory, which impacts profitability. On account of these factors there has been a de-growth in carbon product volume sold and a sharp decline in EBITDA per tonne. Sequentially, however, profitability per tonne is improving as the impact of high-cost inventory has started moderating. Also read: Adverse SC action has material impact on business model Advance materials segment (24 percent of sales) witnessed lower volumes due to sluggish growth in the European automotive industry and in demand for resins. However, this segment continued to witness better product price realisation trends. Performance of the cement business (nine percent of sales) improved due to increase in sales volumes in all major markets Sequentially, there was a dip in sales volume for carbon products, which can largely be attributed to timing of export shipments. Directionally, the company is quickly moving past the regulatory headwind of GPC import quota. The management is looking at ways and means to operate its Indian CPC plant at 100 percent utilisation by buying low grade petcoke from Indian market and processing it for calcination purposes. High-cost inventory for both carbon and advance material segments are expected to get exhaust by the end of Q2 CY19. An improvement can already by seen in the sequential jump in EBITDA margin, which should get closer to normal levels (about 18 percent) in H2 CY19 The management said its Visakhapatnam expansion plan for CPC is on track. The company said it should be able to operate even that plant at optimum levels despite the current GPC import quota. The Visakhapatnam facility, being under SEZ, also offers some flexibility to the company in terms of sourcing banned materials. Unresolved factors include lower capacity utilisation in the USA CPC facility as the company is not able to import it to India for blending. Part of the idle US capacity could be deployed as and when US smelters restart and aluminium-end market prospects improve. Improving realisation trend for the advance materials indicates strengthening of another growth lever for the company. Additional, tailwinds in the cement sector is comforting. While we expect the next quarterly result to be subdued, we estimate that it is largely in the price as the stock trades at an inexpensive valuation (5.3 times CY19 estimated earnings). We are encouraged by the fact that business is under mend and carbon product prices are expected to stabilise by middle of CY19. The management expects pricing stabilisation in the end-market (aluminium) as the current cost of production doesnt justify aluminium prices. On account of such factors, we feel that the stock can be accumulated on every decline during the next 3-6 months. Follow @anubhavsays For more research articles, visit our Moneycontrol Research page Moneycontrol Research analysts do not hold positions in the companies discussed here Rice export prices in top exporter India fell for a fifth consecutive week on low demand and domestic currency weakness, while traders in Vietnam looked for prospective deals from China and Egypt. India's 5 percent broken parboiled variety was quoted around $371-$374 per tonne this week, down from last week's $373-$376. "As prices are falling every week, buyers are delaying purchases expecting further drops," said an exporter based at Kakinada in the southern state of Andhra Pradesh. The aggressive selling of old inventories by China to African buyers was also weighing on prices, exporters said. Meanwhile, Bangladesh has postponed a decision on lifting its long-standing ban on rice exports until the completion of the summer rice harvest. Cyclone Fani partially damaged the harvest of the summer-sown crop, also known as Boro, on 55,600 hectares of land, Mir Nurul Alam, head of the country's Department of Agriculture Extension, told Reuters. Farmers in Bangladesh's coastal areas had been instructed to harvest their paddy fields before the cyclone made landfall so that helped to minimise the losses, he said. After battering India, Fani barrelled into neighbouring Bangladesh on Saturday as a much weaker storm. In Vietnam, rates for 5 percent broken rice were at $365 on Thursday, unchanged from last week. "Sales are still slow this week as Vietnamese prices remain relatively high, but we hope sales to China may increase later this year," a trader based in Ho Chi Minh City said. "A delegation of Chinese rice importers are touring the Mekong Delta provinces to explore possible deals." Egypt is also seeking to buy at least 20,000 tonnes of 10-12 percent broken rice for delivery between July 25 and Aug. 20, a source with Vietnam's Ministry of Industry and Trade said. Customs data released on Thursday showed Vietnam's rice exports in April were unchanged from March at 693,000 tonnes. Rice shipments in the first four months of this year fell 5.1 percent from a year earlier to 2.1 million tonnes. Vietnam's rice supplies are expected to increase when the early harvest of the summer-autumn crop begins late this month, traders said. Thailand's benchmark 5-percent broken riceA prices were largely unchanged at $385-$400 a tonne on Thursday, free on board Bangkok, compared with $385-$402 quoted last week. While demand has remained flat, traders said the prices could rise due to an anticipated drought as the world's second-largest exporter heads into a new growing season this month. "Rain is coming late this year, so maybe drought can be anticipated, which will affect output, quality and volume," a Bangkok-based trader said. Thailand also held an annual ploughing ceremony on May 9, with a pair of royal oxen predicting good harvest this year. Amazon was hit by a "serious" online attack in 2018, with a court filing revealing that hackers transferred funds from seller accounts for more than six months, according to a Bloomberg report. A UK legal document indicates that hackers broke into 100 seller accounts and channelled cash from loans and sales into their own bank accounts, the report said. The hackers managed to modify the account details on the Seller Central platform to their own accounts at Barclays and Prepay Technologies, according to a court filing. The e-commerce giant is still investigating the affected accounts. The company has also requested a London judge for the permission to examine accounts at Barclays and Prepay. Moneycontrol could not independently verify the story. Amazon, Barclays, and Prepay have not yet responded to Bloombergs request for comment. The amount of money stolen by the hackers has not been disclosed. The filing does not mention how the hackers managed to additional bank details to the merchants accounts, the report said. The fraudulent transactions occurred between May and October 2018, and the first transaction occurred on May 16, the filing said. One of the entities mentioned in the filing is Amazon Capital Services UK, which loans money to sellers for a period of one year, the report said. Amazon recently said it had issued over $1 billion in loans to merchants. In 2018, Amazon India saw a 56 percent growth in merchants selling to international markets. Weak global cues, mixed earnings from India Inc. and election uncertainty led to a 1200-point drop on the Sensex and nearly 400 point fall in the Nifty50 in just about a week. Investors lost over Rs 5 lakh crore in terms of market capitalisation on the BSE listed companies in just past 6 sessions. The average market capitalisation of BSE listed companies dropped from Rs 152.54 lakh crore on April 30 to Rs 147.47 lakh crore on May 8 - a fall of Rs 5.07 lakh crore. The S&P BSE Sensex broke below crucial support levels as it plunged from 39,031 on April 30 to 37,789 on May 8. Meanwhile, Nifty50 also fell 389 points to break below 11,400 levels in the same period. The recent fall from the high of 11,856 (recorded on April 18) suggests traders are cautious ahead of the election results to be announced on May 23. Experts say that volatility will only increase till the outcome is clear. Investors should use the opportunity to get into quality stocks on declines and stay away from leverage play to avoid getting caught on the wrong side, suggest experts. It is a good time for investors to accumulate stocks at lower levels, while traders should use the bounce to short Nifty with a stop loss above 11,600 levels. The index is likely to find support at its 100-days exponential moving average (DMA) placed at 11,250, and below that at 11,100-11,000 levels, suggest experts. The only tailwind for Indian market is crude oil prices which have now slipped to $70 bbl from the recent high of $75.60, recorded on April 25. In terms of headwinds, investors will closely watch the trade talks between the US & China, as well as election outcome on May 23. On the downside, 11,000-11,100 is expected to be tested before we witness an aggressive recovery. Investors are advised to use this correction as an opportunity to accumulate while traders should wait for momentum reversal from strong support levels. We strongly believe this is a corrective phase in an up trending market, Sahaj Agrawal, Head of Derivatives- Kotak Securities told Moneycontrol. Indian market fell for six straight sessions in May to hit a 2-month low. Major selling was seen in largecaps which were major contributors when the index recorded a fresh record high last month. We expect the market to remain rangebound in the near term. Volatility and choppiness are likely to remain high on the back of the announcement of the key domestic macro data in the coming session and progress of central elections, Jayant Manglik, President - Retail Distribution, Religare Broking told Moneycontrol. Meanwhile, investors would continue to focus on Q4FY19 earnings season. On the global front, market participants would closely monitor the progress of trade talks between the US and China, the behavior of crude oil prices and fluctuation in currency. We advise investors should continue to focus on quality companies, with strong financials and bright prospects, he said. : The views and investment tips expressed by investment experts on Moneycontrol.com are their own and not that of the website or its management. Moneycontrol.com advises users to check with certified experts before taking any investment decisions. May 09, 2019 / 08:12 AM IST Here are stocks that are in news today: Results on May 9: HCL Technologies, Asian Paints, Apollo Tyres, Voltas, Mahanagar Gas, Shankara Building Products, South Indian Bank, Astra Microwave Products, Baba Arts, Cineline India, Centenial Surgical Suture, Cybertech Systems and Software, Dai-Ichi Karkaria, Dalmia Bharat, Datamatics Global Services, DE Nora India, Esab India, Fairchem Speciality, Gayatri Sugars, Gala Global Products, Gujarat Mineral Development Corporation, Granules India, Grovy India, Gujarat State Petronet, GTL Infrastructure, HCC, Hikal, Hinduja Ventures, Hindustan Media Ventures, ICRA, Inspirisys Solutions, Indian Overseas Bank, Kalpataru Power Transmission, Khaitan Chemicals, Mangalam Drugs, Manorama Industries, Matrimony.com, Mcdowell Holdings, MT Educare, NHC Foods, Nitta Gelatin India, Oracle Financial Services, Huhtamaki PPL, Plastiblends India, PNB Housing Finance, PTL Enterprises, Saint-Gobain Sekurit India, Satia Industries, Solar Industries, Stovec Industries, Sundram Fasteners, Superior Finlease, Sutlej Textiles & Industries, Timex Group India, Varun Beverages, Vardhman Textile KEC International Q4: Profit falls to Rs 194 crore versus Rs 195.66 crore; revenue rises to Rs 3,841 crore versus Rs 3,662.4 crore YoY. Hindalco Industries: Subsidiary Novelis Q4 net income at $103 million, adjusted EBITDA at $357 million, and net sales at $3.1 billion. Titan Company Q4: Consolidated profit rises to Rs 348.3 crore versus Rs 304.41 crore; revenue jumps to Rs 4,888.77 crore versus Rs 4,107.22 crore YoY. JMC Projects Q4: Profit jumps to Rs 48.70 crore versus Rs 34.28 crore; revenue rises to Rs 937.5 crore versus Rs 723 crore YoY. Kokuyo Camlin Q4: Profit falls to Rs 4.5 crore versus Rs 5.8 crore; revenue rises to Rs 194 crore versus Rs 190.2 crore YoY. Tata Communications Q4: Consolidated loss at Rs 198.82 crore versus profit at Rs 173.3 crore; revenue declines to Rs 4,243.5 crore versus Rs 4,269.5 crore QoQ. Alembic Pharmaceuticals Q4: Profit jumps to Rs 123.7 crore versus Rs 93.99 crore; revenue rises to Rs 927 crore versus Rs 853.3 crore YoY. Gillette India Q4: Net profit up 36.3% at Rs 48 crore versus Rs 35.5 crore, revenue up 3.1% at Rs 465.6 crore versus Rs 451.5 crore. Saregama India Q4: Net profit down 24.9% at Rs 16 crore versus Rs 21.4 crore, YoY Great Eastern Shipping Company: Company has delivered its 1994 built Very Large Gas Carrier 'Jag Vishnu' to the buyers. The vessel was contracted for sale in January 2019. Dilip Buildcon: Subsidiary DBL Mangalwedha Solapur Highways Private Limited received financial closure letter from the National Highways Authority of India for four laning of Sangli-Solapur section of NH-166. Bharat Financial Inclusion: Company assigned a pool of receivables of an aggregate value of Rs 1,107.41 crore to one of the largest private sector banks on a direct assignment basis. TVS Motor to make investment in Tagbox Solutions India Ratings downgrades Yes Bank to 'IND AA-' / Negative Deepak Fertilisers approved issue of Foreign Currency Convertible Bonds (FCCBs) aggregating to USD 30 million in two equal tranches Shree Renuka Sugars' Mauritius arm entered a term shtee with a potential investor to explore a transaction, which may result in the company ceasing to hold more than 50% stake in its arm Religare Enterprises - ICRA Rating revised its long term debt programme rating from ICRA BB to ICRA D and removed from watch Balrampur Chini buyback offer to open on May 16 and closes on May 26 Analyst or Board Meet/Briefings Strides Pharma Science: Company will host earnings call with analysts and investors on May 10. Solara Active Pharma Sciences: Board meeting is scheduled on May 16 to consider March quarter results. Cera Sanitaryware: Company will host Q4 & FY2019 earnings conference call on May 16. Take Solutions: Board will consider FY19 results & final dividend on May 16. City Union Bank: Board will consider FY19 results & dividend on May 17. Ujjivan Financial Services: Company will announce March quarter earnings on May 30. Bulk Deals on May 8 "We want to make investing as easy as booking a cab," says Vasanth Kamath, Founder and CEO of smallcase, a Bengaluru-based startup that is paving the way for modern investors allowing them to choose from professionally tailored baskets of stocks that reflect an investing idea or strategy. Currently, seven brokers have a collaboration with the company and are offering this platform. They include Kotak Securities, HDFC Securities, 5paisa, Edelweiss, Zerodha, Alice Blue and Axis Securities. Kamath tells us about the company and products on offer in an interview with Moneycontrol's Suyash Maheshwari. Edited excerpts: Q: You, along with other founders, are IIT Kharagpur graduates. What prompted you to launch an equity investing platform? A: Rohan, Anugrah and I attended IIT Kharagpur between 2008 and 2012. After graduating, Rohan joined Goldman Sachs, while Anugrah joined Nomura. Anugrah and I had done masters in Economics and had a strong inclination towards finance/capital markets. Over time, we realised that our friends who weren't working in the financial services were invested in savings accounts and FDs and did not have exposure to equities and capital markets. Hence, it made sense to build a very simple and comprehensible way to take exposure to themes playing out in the markets, and that's how the idea for smallcase was born. Also read: What is smallcase and how to invest using the platform? Q: smallcase is one of the few thematic investing platforms in India. Why do you think theme-based portfolios will work in the country? A: While we started with thematic portfolios, we have now diversified the product mix including asset allocation, smart beta, model-based and sectoral strategies. I think it is important for every investor to build a long-term portfolio which is diversified and cost-efficient. Smallcases helps you take a core-satellite approach to do the same. Q: You are currently collaborating with seven brokerages and act largely as an intermediary between them and investors. So where exactly do you provide value to the brokerages, and why do they need something like smallcase? A: By working with us, brokerages can offer investors an investment product that has the liquidity of stocks, and are diversified and managed by professionals (like MFs). Our broker partners also have model portfolios. However, the format of dissemination is excel/emails and conversions have been low. smallcase enables their research teams to create and manage their model portfolios as smallcases, so it's very convenient for their clients to invest and rebalance their portfolio. As a neutral player, we can offer more value to retail investors as well as our broker partners and smallcase publishers. Q: What is smallcase doing to tackle the volatility that exists in the equity market? A: We have a diverse product mix with asset allocation strategies like All-Weather (offers exposure to equity, gold and fixed income via ETFs), Smart Beta (largecap stocks oriented). There also are smallcases for different risk levels to build a diversified portfolio. We recently introduced a way for investors to set up SIPs starting from Rs 5,000. Q: How does smallcase help retail investors? A: Smallcases are beneficial for three kinds of investors -Stock investors: Helps them take a portfolio approach in a simpler manner and gives them a universe of new ideas, strategies managed by professionals. -Mutual Fund investors: Helps them take portfolio exposure while being managed by a strategy. Other than ELSS, there is an equivalent smallcase for every type of mutual fund. With smallcases, investors- know what they hold- can tweak the constituents at wish - only pay during transacting (versus fees deducted from their investment each day in expense ratios in case of MFs). -New Investors: A good introduction to markets as smallcase is simpler and less risky. Q: What is the strategy going forward and what are you doing to gain millennial traction? A: Going forward, we would like to build an ecosystem around smallcases. We have the largest brokerages offering smallcases to their clients. We are now working on enabling advisory platforms, wealth managers to advise on smallcases as they do with mutual funds. The average age of our investors on smallcase is 28. Millennials usually challenge the status quo and think first principles, making our job easier to convince them to get started with smallcases. Our focus is to continue developing beautiful, easy products for millennials. So an investing experience for them is similar to booking a cab or shopping online. We are also working towards building a brand that is relatable to millennials. Q: It is said that services get costlier with more diversification into stocks, compared to mutual funds, where the costs are capped. Your comments. A: With smallcase, investors pay only during the time and on the amount of transaction and not the entire portfolio. Assuming the standard brokerage is 0.3 percent, if you invest Rs 10 lakh, you'll pay Rs 3,000 in brokerage the day you invest. If the portfolio is rebalanced and has a turnover of 50 percent, then that is another 0.3 percent of Rs 5 lakh, i.e. Rs 1,500, bringing the total cost to Rs 4,500. Understandably, the lesser one transacts, the lower the absolute costs will be here. In case of mutual funds, you will be paying 1-2 percent (Rs 10,000-20,000 each year), irrespective of how often you transact. It's true that the costs are capped on a percentage basis, but it becomes quite costly when investing large amounts in mutual funds. Moreover, the structure of mutual funds also means that when investors sell out of the fund, it is the remaining investors who bear the brunt of the additional transaction costs incurred due to redemptions - this makes them quite inefficient for long-term and buy-hold type of investors. Finally, transaction costs are inescapable. But while they are possibly the main cost associated with smallcases, they are only one of the many costs associated with mutual funds. The financial innovation inherent with smallcases helps strip the other associated costs, making them a lot more cost effective. Q: Mutual funds are safeguarded for retail investors and regulated, whereas smallcase needs an investor to be well-informed. Why should investors not opt for MFs instead? A: Both MFs and smallcases are instruments that help investors take diversified equity exposure. However, the modern MF structure was created in the 1920s, whereas smallcases were launched in 2015. As a result, smallcases have certain distinct advantages like direct ownership, lower-costs, better transparency and control, as well as more variety. Representative image: Pexels/rawpixel.com The Delhi Development Authority has decided to extend the closing date for registration under Housing Scheme 2019 by a month until June 10, 2019. The scheme was to close on May 10, 2019. The scheme was launched on March 25. Of the 18,000 put up for sale, 16,900 are located in Narela, and the DDA wants to ensure the new housing scheme does not receive the tepid response it did in 2014 and 2017. Close to 18,000-20,000 have registered so far under the new housing scheme, DDA sources said. We are operating through banks, the applications are being received by them. There are about 10 to 12 banks participating with us. We are using bank portals and servers and most banks have communicated to us that due to several reasons they could not get the internal approvals for loan sanctions. It is due to this that the entire process has got delayed, sources said citing the main reason for extending the scheme. "We do not want to put pressure on buyers who may want to pay through the banks. Besides, the elections process is on. We therefore decided that we will give the scheme some more time. We are hoping that this will result in more applications coming in, sources said. DDA has so far received about 18,000 to 20,000 applications. There could be more numbers for Vasant Kunj than Narela. The number is not uniform. We are hopeful the number will treble with the extension coming through, it said. Out of the total 17,922 flats, Vasant Kunj has 1,286, including 336 three-bedroom ones. Most of the flats on offer are located in Narela, maximum of them being one-bedroom ones (8,164) or those meant for economically weaker sections (6,536). While the three-bedroom flats are being offered in the range of Rs 1.4 crore to Rs 1.7 crore, two-bedroom flats will cost between Rs 66 lakh and Rs 1.4 crore, and one-bedroom flats are priced in the Rs 22.5-56.3 lakh range. The entire application processes will have to be undertaken online as there is no offline form this year. Those applying will have to pay the application fee online and upload one's latest photograph and scanned signature. DDA will send important communications and messages such as demand-cum-allotment letter, conveyance deed, etc to the registered email id and mobile number. The Delhi housing body has empanelled a large number of banks from where the registration fee can be paid. The registration fee, too, is on the higher side this time around, with the maximum being Rs 2 lakh for two and three-bedroom flats. Those applying for one-bedroom LIG and EWS category flats will have to shell out Rs 1 lakh and Rs 25,000 respectively. The registration fee will be refunded to unsuccessful applicants. Janta flat - Rs 10,0001 BHK - Rs 15,000EWS - Rs 25,000LIG - Rs 1 lakh MIG/HIG - Rs 2 lakh However, if the applicant has opted for more than one category, he/she has to deposit the application money of the highest category. An application once submitted cannot be withdrawn. For first-time homebuyers, the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) benefit may also be available, officials said. The applicant must be a citizen of India and should have completed 18 years of age as on the date of submitting the application. A flat in the housing estates of the authority shall be allotted only if the applicant (or their spouse or any of their dependent relations, including unmarried children) does not own in full or in part on freehold or leasehold basis a residential plot having an area exceeding 67 sq meters or flat/built-up house having carpet area exceeding 67 sq m in the urban area of Delhi, New Delhi and Delhi Cantonment. Both the husband and the wife can apply for flats separately subject to fulfilment of eligibility conditions with the stipulation that, if both are declared successful, only one shall be allotted a flat, and the full amount of application money of the other spouse will be refunded. One person can submit one application either in his/her own name or as a joint applicant. The income of applicants applying for EWS flats should not exceed Rs 3 lakh per annum. There is no income criterion for other categories. Applicants will not be required to submit any document at the time of submission. Only successful applicants will be required to submit the prescribed supporting documents. Self-attested copy of the PAN card: The details of this will be verified before issuance of possession letter to successful allottees. Identity proof: Self-attested copy of passport, government identity card, Election ID, driving licence, ration card with photo (of the person whose photo is affixed) or Aadhaar card. Proof of residence: Self-attested copy of passport, government identity card, Election ID, ration card, driving licence, telephone bill, electricity bill, water bill, house tax receipt, bank passbook (page carrying name and address) or Aadhaar card. Proof of income for EWS category as issued by the office of concerned SDM/ Tehsildar. All eligible applicants will be considered for allotment through a computerised draw, based on a random number technique. The draw to be held in the presence of independent observers will be web-streamed. The flat cost has to be deposited within 90 days from the date of issue of the demand-cum-allotment letter. The latter will be issued online for information purpose. However, a hard copy will be sent by registered/speed post. An email and an SMS will also be sent to all the allottees. An additional grace of six months will be available to allottees, subject to payment of interest at the rate of 10 percent per annum. Applicants will be required to become a member of the registered welfare agency/association of apartment owners formed for the purpose of maintenance. Only one RWA will be registered for one pocket. All allottees will mandatorily have to become member of the concerned RWA. For major maintenance, the contribution towards the maintenance fund will be recovered from allottees and would be placed in an escrow account. Maintenance works would be undertaken out of the interest earned from this corpus. The fund will be apportioned to the RWAs registered with DDA and will be managed by a committee which will be represented by the executive engineer of the concerned zone. The fund becomes operative from the date the first demand-cum-allotment letter is issued. The allottee shall be entitled to take possession only after he/she has completed all formalities, paid all dues and furnished/executed all the documents as required in the demand-cum-allotment letter. A digitally-signed possession letter will be issued online only, and the allottee has to upload self-attested copies of the requisite documents. An SMS/email intimation regarding the uploading of possession letter will also be sent to the allottees. After the issuance of the possession letter, the allottee may reserve a date for the physical possession through the online mode. If the allottee does not take possession of the flat within three months and up to one year from the date of issue of possession letter, he/she shall be liable to pay watch and ward charges at the prescribed rates. If the physical possession is still not taken over by then, the allotment shall be automatically cancelled. No show-cause notice will be served before cancellation. Any amount deposited towards the cost of the flat will be refundable without the interest in case of cancellation after the deduction of the application money. vandana.ramnani@nw18.com Representative Image Concerned over embattled real estate firm Unitech not assisting court-appointed forensic auditors, the Supreme Court on May 9 ordered the withdrawal of special facilities given to the company's promoters, who are lodged in Delhi's Tihar Jail since August 2017. The apex court had earlier directed jail authorities to facilitate Unitech Managing Director Sanjay Chandra's meetings with company officials and lawyers to make arrangements to refund buyers and complete unfinished projects. Chandra was entitled to negotiate terms for unencumbered properties or assets of the group. The court order states that brothers Sanjay and Ajay Chandra henceforth be treated like ordinary prisoners as per Tihar jail's manual. "The facilities which have been granted to the aforesaid two Directors shall stand revoked forthwith. They shall not be entitled to any additional facilities apart from those which are available in the normal course in terms of the Jail Manual. This direction shall take effect immediately," the SC order read. The decision came after the court-appointed forensic auditor informed the SC on May 9 that Unitech officials were uncooperative and did not supply digital evidence required to track diversion of homebuyers' funds by the realty company. "The status report makes it evident that the forensic auditors have not been provided with complete recourse to the electronic records including those which were in the possession and custody of the Chief Financial Officer(s). In the absence of a complete availability of the electronic records to the forensic auditors, their task has been severely undermined and obstructed. As a consequence, effective implementation of the order which had been passed by this Court for undertaking a forensic audit has been thwarted," the Supreme Court said. A bench of Justices DY Chandrachud and MR Shah did not order CBI probe in express terms, but said that it would like to have assistance of Attorney General KK Venugopal on the issue during the next hearing on July 5. "In the present state of affairs, the Court may be left with no alternative but to now entrust the investigation of the case to the Central Bureau of Investigation," the order said. It said the court would want the AG to assist them on whether the government would like to complete the stalled projects of Unitech with the help of central construction agencies. "... it has become necessary to request the learned Attorney General for India to render his assistance to the Court with a view to explore whether the entire process of completing the unfinished construction projects as well as the management of the company can be suitably taken over and entrusted to an agency to be nominated by the union Government so as to fulfill the obligations due to the home buyers. The home buyers who have invested their life savings have been left in the lurch. We would request the learned Attorney General for India to assist the Court on this aspect of the matter," the order said. "We would appreciate if the learned Attorney General for India can convene a meeting at an appropriate senior level of the union Government to apprise the Court of the course of action which the Government would seek to pursue, to tide over the difficult situation in which the home buyers have been placed and to protect the interests of all stakeholders," it added. The SC had earlier stayed the December 8, 2017 order of the NCLT allowing the Centre to take over the management of Unitech Ltd. The top court had in January this year rejected the bail plea of the jailed directors, stating that the Chandras had not deposited Rs 750 crore with its registry as per an October 2017 order. Only Rs 400 crore has so far been deposited by the company. On December 7, 2018, the apex court had directed a forensic audit of Unitech Ltd and its sister concerns and subsidiaries by Samir Paranjpe, Partner, Forensic & Investigation Services in M/s Grant Thornton India. The forensic audit had been proposed in various phases with the first phase focusing on 74 construction projects and the entities of Unitech involved. The court had also directed Unitech to identify and nominate two of its directors who are not in jail and a team of three senior officers for coordinating with the forensic auditors for the purpose of supplying all the data, materials and information as is required by the auditors. The amicus curiae appointed in the case has said in its report that out of 74 construction projects undertaken by Unitech, as many as 61 were incomplete and about 16,300 home buyers were involved in these projects. In February this year, over 100 Unitech home buyers have moved an application in the SC asking it to direct the government of India to take over the management of the embattled firm. The application moved in the SC had sought for the immediate suspension/removal of the board of directors of Unitech and the appointment of the nominees of the union/government of India in its place. live bse live nse live Volume Todays L/H More Low-cost carrier SpiceJet is entering the full-service segment offering business class tickets on select domestic routes from May 11, becoming the second budget carrier to do so after GoAir. The Wadia group-owned GoAir was the first domestic no-frills carrier to introduce business class way back in October 2008. To begin with, SpiceJet will offer business class on some of its Boeing 737s to be operated from destinations like New Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Varanasi, Bagdogra, and Srinagar, a statement said. The move comes after the airline leased some of the Boeing 737s from the grounded Jet Airways and entered into a code-share pact with Gulf carrier Emirates which is a full- service operator. Jet' entire Boeing fleet, including the narrow-body B737s, and some of which are being leased by other domestic airlines, has business and economy class configurations. At present, SpiceJet is operating nine of the Jet Airways B737s on lease, according to an airline official, and a few more are expected to join its fleet soon. As part of the business class offering, SpiceJet will also provide complimentary lounge access, higher baggage allowance, meals & beverages, priority services to passengers, the release said. The airline will have lounges at Delhi, Mumbai Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Chennai, Kolkata, Varanasi, Jaipur, Guwahati, and Kochi airports, besides dedicated check-in counters. It is planning to have lounges at other airports as well. Business class passengers will be get 30 kg free baggage besides 10 kg of cabin baggage, the airline said. "There is huge demand for business class and we believe that our business class product business-SpiceBiz-- with right pricing will be in demand," SpiceJet chairman Ajay Singh was quoted as saying. Representative image Arpita Mukherjee and Angana Parashar Sarma As India strives to improve its rank in the World Banks Ease of Doing Business from 77 among 190 countries in 2018 to less than 50 in the coming years, fast track express cargo mobility will be critical to achieving this target. Indias National Trade Facilitation Action Plan 2017-20 proposed to bring down the time to the same day for clearance of export cargo and two days for import cargo by air. The express delivery industry, which provides integrated door-to-door transport and quick delivery of time-sensitive shipments play a crucial role in not only meeting the target set by the National Trade Facilitation Action Plan 2017-20 but also in improving the efficiency and global competitiveness of Indian businesses. India has a fairly robust express delivery sector. According to a study by Deloitte, the industry is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 17 percent between 2017 and 2022. In the financial year 2017, this sector employed around 1.6 million workers and contributed close to Rs 2,000 crores to customs duties. With the majority of users being small and medium-sized companies across sectors, such as pharmaceutical and agro-processing, who rely on this sector for transporting their samples and high-value consignments, the express industry will continue to play a key role in Indias international trade. In the past decade, a number of measures have been taken to support the growth of the express industry and enhance its contribution to international trade. This includes implementation of electronic data interchange at leading international terminals in India. The express industry and their associations Express Industry Council of India (EICI) have worked closely with the Indian government to implement ECCSthe express cargo clearance system, which follows a paperless system. Express terminals for cargo clearances have been set up in cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Ahmadabad and Bangalore. Despite these developments and investments in the development of infrastructure, a number of small and medium enterprises and their exporters and importers suddenly started facing a new trade barrier. The customs in a leading airport of India citing the Courier Imports and Exports (Electronic Data and Processing) Regulations, 2010, banned all perishable through the courier or fast track route in December 2018. This led to a sudden stop in clearances of blood samples for testing, access to key medicines, exports and imports of food samples for test marketing and display in exhibitions, to name a few. After significant representation by the industry and reviewing the adverse impact on human life, the customs in February 2019 allowed courier companies to transport blood samples subject to requisite clearances by other government departments. Restrictions on perishable through the fast track route not only lead to huge business losses for the exporters, importers and the express industry, but it is also against Indias initiative to implement the World Trade Organizations (WTO) Agreement on Trade Facilitation. India is a signatory to Article 7, Section 8 of that agreement on Expedited Shipments which calls for member states to adopt or maintain procedures allowing for the expedited release of at least those goods entered through air cargo facilities. Since other countries are promoting express delivery and fast track clearances for perishables, Indian business are at a disadvantage. If one dwells deep into the root cause of the ban on perishable cargo clearance through the fast track route, laws governing the movement of goods through the air cargo route were initially governed by the Courier Exports and Imports (Clearance) Regulations, 1998. Back then, courier did not have a specific terminal and it was cleared in the passenger terminal. Over time, express companies and their association have built terminals, but the ban on the movement of perishables via the air cargo route continued. Subsequently, the Courier Imports and Exports (Electronic Data and Processing) Regulations, 2010, continued to ban perishables. In the light of the need for fast track movement of perishable cargo and for improving the ease of doing business, it is important to amend the 2010 regulation and remove the restriction on perishable cargo movement through the courier or express route subject to requisite clearances by the other clearance agencies, such as Drug Controller and the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). In other words, there should not be any restriction on the mode by which the cargo is brought into the country or exported (by air or sea or through logistics or express delivery) as long as it goes through the proper testing and due diligence process In the context of clearance of perishable through express mode, a survey conducted by the authors found that there is no clarity on the definition of perishable and it encompassed all goods which require testing and clearances by the requisite government bodies. Thus, perishable became all-encompassing from chocolates to biscuits to medicine and cosmetics. If a fast track mode is discriminated against for clearance of such a wide range of cargo needless to say that it will have an adverse impact on exporters. It is important that all consignments through any route should adhere to due diligence such as product testing and getting product specific clearances from requisite authorities. The express industry is willing to go through the due diligence process as logistics providers. The benefit of express cargo is that it is fast track and offers an integrated service to the clients vis-a-vis logistics. As India is implementing trade facilitation and is trying to improve ease of doing business, it is important to amend the 2010 regulation and allow the entry of perishable cargo through the fast track route, subject to testing and other requirements as is applicable to logistics. There is also a need to have a robust back-end IT infrastructure which will link customs with other clearance agencies. If this is done, India will not only improve its rank in the cross-country comparative indices but logistics costs of doing business will decline significantly. It will especially help our exports in key sectors, such as pharmaceutical and agriculture exports, which constitutes of a number of perishable items. Representative image Almost 81 percent of juices and drinks being sold on roadside stalls in Mumbai are unsafe for human consumption, according to the city civic body. The health department of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation last month inspected several stalls on roadsides selling lemonade, sugarcane juice and ice pops. "Out of tor 968 samples of such drinks collected from various stalls, 786 (around 81.1 percent) were found to be unsafe and unfit for consumption," a senior civic official said on May 9. The civic body has decided to act tough against vendors selling such unhygienic drinks which may cause water- borne diseases among consumers, he said. "The civic officials have been regularly inspecting roadside stalls and destroying such contaminated drinks. We don't want to take any chance with people's health," he said. The Central Railway in March banned sale of lemon and other syrup-based juices at food stalls under its jurisdiction after a video of such a drink being prepared unhygienically went viral on social media. The sale of lemon and other synthetically flavoured juices made my mixing water goes up in the summer season, another civic official noted. He, however, appealed to people not to consume such juices being sold on roadside stalls. . India wants to ensure that Africa progresses and becomes the most developed part of the world, Commerce and Aviation Minister Suresh Prabhu has said, promising to assist in resolving challenges faced by the Indian diaspora businessmen in the continent. The minister's statement came while addressing business leaders from South Africa, Mozambique, Botswana, Madagascar, Ghana and Nigeria through a video conference on Monday. "We have very old, intensive, comprehensive relationships with our friends in Africa. These are very important relationships which we want to develop for mutual benefit. "We want to ensure that Africa progresses and becomes the most developed part of the world because Africa has everything that should really put it on the top of the map in terms of development," Prabhu said. He earlier addressed East African nations as part of his plan to identify and attempt to resolve challenges that Indian businesses on the continent were facing. Major issues that emerged from the participants included difficulties in securing business visas and permits; poor connectivity due to the lack of direct flights between the African countries and India and challenges of financing that required intervention through banks in Europe or the US. Nigerian delegates said the banking sector had matured in their country as well as in India, so there was no longer a need for this. Participants from Ghana said it was difficult for Indian businesses to obtain loans locally, with a call for allowing assets in India to be used as collateral. West African nations also requested that the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI), and Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) consider opening offices in the region, as the only CII office on the continent was in South Africa. Jitin Bhatia, head of the India Business Forum in South Africa, lamented the decades-long delay in finalising the Southern African Customs Union Preferential Trade Agreement, which he said has resulted in Indian companies having to pay higher import duties for goods brought in via South Africa to its neighbouring states. Bhatia also urged the Indian government to look into why South Africa was not reciprocating on the introduction of e-visas. "The BRICS Business Visa is not easily accessible here and there is no category in the current system used by VFS (the visa agent for the Indian missions) for long-term visas as required by companies to ensure stability for Indian CEO's and others working in South Africa," Bhatia said. Neena Malhotra, Joint Secretary for East and Southern Africa at the Ministry of External Affairs, said that 18 new missions would be opened across Africa, taking the total on the continent to 47. "Our trade has intensified and last year we registered an impressive increase of 22 per cent from the previous year, with our total trade now almost USD 63 billion," Malhotra said. India was the fifth largest investor in Africa in diverse sectors, she said. "Indian Diaspora is a crucial link in our relations with Africa. In almost all our interactions with African leaders, we have heard only positive things about the contribution of Indian Diaspora, especially in the economies of the country where they are residing. "They create local employment, contribute to revenues and they are well integrated," Malhotra added. Amar Devulapalli Telangana Chief Minister and Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) K Chandrashekar Rao (KCR), who is on a temple tour in Kerala and Tamil Nadu ought to be the most worried politician in India. He left for Kerala for a summer sojourn on May 6, where he made a courtesy call to his counterpart Pinarayi Vijayan. Vijayan, who in the current scenario is an important leader of the Communist Party of India (Marxist), has not given an assurance of his party joining the KCRs federal front an alliance of parties excluding the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Congress. At the national level, the Left parties are most likely go with the Mahagathbandhan, which is a loose alliance of anti-BJP parties. If and when the need comes, this alliance will join hands with the Congress to keep the BJP at bay. Another important leader who KCR wanted to meet was Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) President MK Stalin but Stalin refused to meet the Telangana leader on the pretext of campaigning for the May 19 by-elections for four assembly seats in Tamil Nadu. The fact is that the DMK has a pre-poll alliance with the Congress and, perhaps, Stalin is the only regional leader who has openly supported Rahuls candidature for prime ministership. Why did KCR choose this time to meet non-BJP party leaders? It must be remembered that the TRS founder has no strong political ideology, and is thus very flexible when it comes to his political relations. In 2004, he joined the Congress-led United Progressive Alliance (UPA) to become Union minister and in 2009, he was seen in an election rally of BJPs senior leader LK Advani in Ludhiana. Since 2014, he has been perceived as a friend of the BJP he supported demonitisation, GST and other decisions made by the Narendra Modi government. Modi, while comparing the two Telugu states, has praised the KCR-led Telangana government. KCRs federal front was floated a year back and is also seen as an attempt to help the BJP in the post-poll scenario if the saffron party falls short of numbers. In March 2018, KCR visited West Bengal and met Mamata Banerjee in Kolkata. On the way back, he met Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik in Bhubaneshwar. KCR also called on Karnataka CM HD Kumaraswamy, former Prime Minister HD Dewe Gouda and former DMK chief M Karunanidhi in Tamil Nadu. However, not even one leader among them stood in support of KCRs idea of a non-BJP, non-Congress federal front. Instead, Banerjee joined hands with KCRs arch rival Andhra Pradesh CM N Chandrababu Naidu, and through him she is likely to join the Mahagathbandhan. Naidu is going to be with the Mahagathbandhan in Delhi in the event of Jaganmohan Reddys YSRCP coming into power in Andhra Pradesh. Banerjee, Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal, Jammu and Kashmir former CM Farooq Abdullah have campaigned in favour of TDP in the recent elections in Andhra Pradesh. The Communist Party of India (CPI), which is an election ally of Pawan Kalyans Janasena in Andhra Pradesh, is part of the Mahagathbandhan along with Naidu at the national level. Also the Samajwadi Party and the Bahujan Samaj Party are part of this Mahagathbandhan. In short, no powerful regional leader is on board KCRs federal front. This is why KCR is a worried politician meeting other regional leaders. B Vinod Kumar, a senior TRS leader who was with KCR on his Kerala and Tamil Nadu has categorically said that the regional parties have to take a united stand in favour of either the UPA or the NDA and that the TRS will take a conscious decision after May 23. This makes it clear that KCR has abandoned the federal front idea. Then, the question arises: Why is KCR in a hurry to join the non-BJP front? What is stopping him from accepting the Congress in the alliance? What went wrong in his friendship with the BJP and particularly Modi? KCR is ready to play a larger role in Delhi for this, he has made his son KT Rama Rao the working president of the TRS so that if need be he can hand him the power in the state and move to Delhi. His ties with the Congress have never been good. KCR had promised to merge his TRS with the Congress once Telangana was created, but went back on his promise. This led to the marginalisation of the Congress in the new state. This could be a reason for him not being a part of the Mahagathbandhan. Also, by joining the coalition, KCR will be giving the Congress a new lease of life in the state. However, KCR does not much options now but to join the Mahagathbandhan. His ties with the BJP appear to have sored. Income tax notices were served to KCR and several of his party MLAs and this has given room for suspicion that KCR and Modi are not on good terms. The BJP is upset with KCR as about 25 farmers from Nizamabad, his daughter Kavitas constituency, travelled to Varanasi to file nominations against Modi. Out of the 17 Lok Sabha seats in Telangana, even if KCR wins 16 (as he claims), without joining any alliance at the Centre, he will have no role to play. Thus, in the whole election game, KCR seems to have become a loner. Amar Devulapalli is a Hyderabad-based senior journalist. Views are personal For more Opinion pieces, click here Harish Puppala | Rakesh Sharma Softbank its a name that comes up often these days, as far as business and startups are concerned. SoftBank Group is the big mover and shaker in our countrys startup ecosystem as well. In fact, Softbank had invested, according to Fortune India, over $7 billion in India between 2014 and February 2018 in high-growth startups in e-commerce, ride-hailing apps, budget hotel aggregation and asset managing, grocery delivery services, and payment platforms, among others. Between 2017 and 2018 alone, it invested a whopping $4.3 billion (or 27,163 crores) in Indian companies. By April 2018, that number had touched 8 billion USD. BY Novermber 2018, the groups vision fund had pumped a cumulative $5 billion into companies ranging from fintech group Paytm to hotel chain Oyo Rooms. It had bet so big on Indian startups, the Financial Times reported late last year, that the scale and pace of its investments prompted some in Indias financial and technology industries to even question their prudence. With the most popular current name in investment looking to launch an IPO of its famous $100 billion Vision Fund, now might be a good time to look at what SoftBank Group has done in India, and what its future plans are. SoftBanks audacious plans Before we look at SoftBanks India moves, lets take stock of what its overall situation is. SoftBank Group Corp. is considering fundraising plans, including a public offering of its $100 billion investment fund and the launch of a second fund of at least that size, as it looks to seize on an exploding startup scene, according to the Wall Street Journal. SoftBank is reportedly negotiating with the sultanate of Oman for an investment of $1 billion or more in its existing $100 billion Vision Fund, which raised nearly all of its cash from Saudi Arabia and Abu Dhabi, according to WSJ. It was reported in February this year that Saudi Arabias sovereign wealth fund, Public Investment Fund (PIF) of Saudi Arabia, had put $45 billion into SoftBanks $100 billion Vision Fund. The fund was set up in 2017 and has become the world's largest technology investment fund. In fact, the pace of deal making set by founder and Chief Executive Masayoshi Son is said to be so frantic that the funds staff is struggling to keep up. Son has invested nearly all the money that the Vision Fund took in just about two years ago. Some upcoming IPOs of companies it has invested inincluding Uber and WeWork.will free up some money, but not enough to fund everything that CEO Son wants to buy. The fund plans to double its staff to 800 people from 400 over the next 18 months, one of his top deputies said at a conference in Los Angeles. That compounds the pressure to raise more money so they can be paid to hunt for deals across the globe. The Vision Fund IPO is the most ambitious plan of all, and will likely happen after the fund is fully invested. According to a WSJ analysis, the group hopes to create a smaller version of Warren Buffetts Berkshire Hathaway - one that is loaded with young technology companies, many of which have yet to turn a profit, instead of a stable of well-established utilities, insurers and energy companies. If successful, it would tap into a new pool of moneysmall time investors who typically are unable to invest in venture-capital funds due to regulations meant to protect unsophisticated investors from risky assets. But that is probably a smidge too optimistic - while SoftBank executives are said to be working to overcome those regulations, it might not happen. Another barrier is that some of the funds hottest investments are set to go public themselves this year, which would reduce the allure of its own offerings. Yet another challenge comes from the state of Omans economy. The country is under economic pressure, with swelling dollar debts and dwindling foreign exchange reserves. So far, investors in SoftBanks fund have included the Saudis, Abu Dhabi, a handful of corporations, including Apple and Qualcomm, whose fortunes are intertwined with those of SoftBank, parent of a major Japanese cellphone carrier and majority owner of U.S.-based Sprint Corp. SoftBank is trying to sell Sprint to T-Mobile US Inc., but the deal has run into resistance from regulators. And payouts to the funds shareholders of about $6 billion have mostly come from just two investments - the sale of Indian e-commerce site Flipkart to Walmart, and gains in shares of publicly traded Nvidia Corp. So that, ion brief, is the state of SoftBanks global investment plans. SoftBank in India Lets now take a look at what it plans to do in India. As weve mentioned earlier, it has invested upwards of $8 billion in this country, including nearly half of Indias ten unicorns. In comparison, Tiger Global LLC and South African Naspers had invested $3.63 billion and $2.9 billion, respectively, by April 2018. When it entered India in 2014, then vice-president Nikesh Arora, a former Google executive handpicked by Son, directed SoftBanks fast work of snapping up stakes in a bunch of leading consumer internet start-ups. By the close of 2015, it had deployed an estimated $2 billion in five firmsDelhi-based e-commerce marketplace Snapdeal, Bengaluru-based Ola, Mumbai-based property search platform Housing, Gurugram-based grocery delivery service Grofers as well as OYO. Within 12 months, Arora had brought SoftBank abreast with Tiger Global, the largest and most influential investor in the technology start-up market in India for well nigh a decade. Some analysts claim it also contributed to driving up valuations further in an already overheated market. Alok Sama, chief strategy officer with SoftBank Group told Fortune last year, The notion of leapfrogging is an essential part (of) our Indian investment thesis. For example, SoftBanks bet is that India never approaches car ownership thresholds experienced in the West, but rather migrates straight to a shared transportation model. Similarly, India will never likely have scaled organised retail in the form of physical department stores, but will gravitate directly toward mobile e-commerce. In finance, credit card penetration rates will likely never approach those seen in the West, but we will move straight to a tech-enabled digital finance model. Such observations led to SoftBank placing major bets on companies like Ola, Flipkart and PayTm. Sama added, Along with Oyo and Hike, both of whom have developed a uniquely local offering, these investments are the cornerstone of our Indian digital investment strategy. The truth is, with its $100 billion Vision Fund, SoftBank is well equipped to shape a few market leading consumer Internet firms in India, hence the industries themselves, according to industry insiders. Earlier this week came news via CNBC-TV18 that SoftBank is planning to earmark $20 billion for India. It is likely to invest this amount over a period of five to seven years, said people familiar with the matter. The SoftBank Group had committed investment to the tune of $10 billion to invest in new areas like solar and technology-led businesses. Whats interesting is the keenness of the Saudis in the Indian market. In February, PIF managing director and chief executive Yasir Al-Rumayyan and Rajeev Misra, CEO of SoftBank Investment Advisors, met selected journalists in India for a brief glimpse into the playbook of the largest agglomeration of capital in the global venture capital business. As Mint observed, The Saudi interest is clear. It wants to tap into the vast Indian markets, not directly with products and services, but through investments in home-grown startups by way of the SoftBank Vision Fund, even while it looks for other such strategic partners... Oyo Rooms, Delhivery and FirstCry arent just SoftBank investments in India, but also vehicles for the Saudis to understand the Indian market, as well as platforms for expanding into the country. After a flurry of investments, SoftBank is also looking at creating what Misra called an ecosystem of tech companies", which will feed on each others strengths and leverage synergies across the world. A case in point is the synergy between Oyo, a hospitality company, and work spaces sharing company WeWork, for co-living spaces. Further, SoftBank is now pushing Indian startups to get into the Saudi market as the kingdom opens up to businesses from abroad. The group is also well poised for an early entry into new ventures, especially after its successful exit from Flipkart and Nvidia., which gave the fund a return of nearly 25% in less than two years, with an average investment period of just nine months. In 2020, SoftBank will see a flurry of exits, mostly through initial public offerings. Mistakes made, and lessons learnt Masayoshi Son had visited India in 2017. He famously declared at the time in an interview, There are good times and bad times but SoftBank is always there." Talk about a longterm plan. Regarding the India operations, Rajeev Misra said he does not worry about overpaying when investing in Indias tech start-ups, because its multibillion-dollar bets will pay off as mobile internet use booms. He explained, With the proliferation of smartphones, cheaper data, faster networks, the penetration of internet services to the masses has increased dramatically...When we invest, we believe the returns will be three to four times the investment so how does it matter if we pay 10% or 20% more or less? Critics claim that since SoftBank started making investments in India, it is rushing to deploy capital. One Mumbai-based technology analyst told the Financial Times, Theyve got a big hammer and theyre looking for nails. Harish HV, a former partner with Grant Thornton, said, SoftBanks early investments have not paid off. Many of its investments, which were early stage, were to be written off by the Group. It has then reworked on the strategy and started focussing on matured start-ups/companies instead of the emerging ones. An analysis in BusinessLine clarified that while Tiger, Naspers and other such investors like mid- and later-stage funding in market leaders across segments such as Flipkart and Ola, SoftBank chose the second and third major players -a move that was seen as ambitious by many experts at the time. Cut to last year, and while Tiger Global and Naspers slowed down their investments in the Indian market, SoftBank was scaling up. It funded almost all the big players in the country including a $2.5-billion round in Flipkart and was touted as the largest investment by a single investor in any online company in the Indian market until then. Then there was the $1.5-billion in Alibaba-backed Paytm, the largest player in the fintech/payments space. That brings us to the downside of SoftBanks strategy in India. Take, for instance, PayTm. It has been one of SoftBanks biggest bets in this country - the $1.4bn investment in Paytm, a mobile payments company that faces competition from AMerican rivals WhatsApp and Google was highly touted by Misra. He said, Paytm is a substantial leader over WhatsApp. He said the Indian company has more than 300m registered users, adding, We have full faith that it can maintain a lead. However, a report in ET earlier this month claimed WhatsApp currently has over 300 million users in India (while Facebook has another 300 million in the country). Once WhatsApp starts a peer-to-peer (P2P) UPI-based payments service, the sheer numbers will take it beyond Paytm which last reported over 230 million users. Another Economic Times analysis claimed Paytm Mall's losses continued to rise. In the financial year 2018, the company, according to the ET report, posted a loss of nearly Rs 1,800 crore on revenue of Rs 774 crore. According to Forrester Research, the market share of Paytm Mall almost halved in 2018- to 3 per cent from 5.6 per cent in 2017. Thomas Geroge, According to Thomas George, Senior Vice President and Head CyberMedia Research, Paytm Mall's primary catchment segment was its payment wallet customers base. This base is not growing as anticipated. To make matters worse for Paytm, and its investor SoftBank, Reliance Industries declared its intent to enter the e-commerce space with an aim to transform the lives of around three crore merchants across the country, enabling them to do all that large enterprises and e-commerce giants are able to do with the help of technology. For Paytm Mall, that is decidedly not good news. A few years ago, Snapdeal saw its valuation jump to $2 billion with SoftBanks investment. Olas valuation jumped three times to more than $600 million. Housing, a two-and-a-half-year-old firm when SoftBank led a $90 million round, was valued at more than $200 million, courtesy the premium paid by its new benefactor. The valuations of Snapdeal and Housing.com fell dramatically. Housing.com was later sold to PropTiger for about $70 million, where as SoftBank had invested close to a $100 million in the company. But SoftBank continued to pump investment into Ola, which is locked in a battle with Ubers Indian subsidiary. Since SoftBank acquired a $9bn stake in Uber in December 2017, speculation has been rife that it seeks a merger between the two businesses. Misra had played down this angle, saying, Its up to the companies, and adding that competition issues could complicate any attempt at a merger. A venture capitalist whose firm is a co-investor in a SoftBank-backed company, told Mint in 2017, Im not sure what their investment strategy is theyve clearly made so many mistakes here. Rajeev Misra, of course, denies that SoftBank had overpaid for its Indian investments, saying SoftBank invested in Paytm at half the companys $10bn valuation, and earned a 50% return when it sold its stake in online marketplace Flipkart. Bullish on India Quibbles aside, as Masayoshi Son said, ...SoftBank is always there." In October last year, SoftBank Vision Fund was reportedly evaluating investments worth $200-250 million each in baby and mother care portal FirstCry and logistics company Delhivery. The investments would eventually see Delhivery valued at around $1.6 billion. At the time, SoftBank was also in discussions to double its investments in the hyperlocal space with a $120-150 million infusion in Grofers, a competitor to Big Basket. SoftBank has a separate team in India led by former Bharti Airtel chief executive Manoj Kohli for renewable energy unit SB Energy, a three-way joint venture with Foxconn and the Bharti Group. All those happened after SoftBank had exited Flipkart in the now-famous a transaction which delivered returns of over $4 billion. Manoj Patkar, Executive Director & Partner, 7i Advisors LLP, told BusinessLine, SoftBanks strategy, to back Unicorns, has yielded positive results in the short-term in India. SoftBank dominated the Indian market in 2017 having invested in four out of the top 5 most-funded technology companies each of which is a market leader in their respective market categories. In November 2018, the Economic Times reported that SoftBank roped in Norwest Venture Partners Sumer Juneja as its country head for India, ending an over-three-year search for an executive to lead investments in one of its highly lucrative markets. As part of Norwest Venture Partners, Juneja first led an investment in Swiggy in 2015 and served on its board as an observer. In April this year, SoftBank was in the news once again as it was reportedly looking to make a $2-3 billion investment in India's fastest-growing telecom firm Reliance Jio at a time when Mukesh Ambani was looking to deleverage business by selling stakes. BusinessToday reported, This comes on the back of reports of Saudi giant Aramco in discussions to buy a 25% stake in Reliance Industries' refining and petrochemical business for USD 10-15 billion. A JPMorgan research report observed, Softbank has long been seen as a potential investor in Jio...For the past 2 years, our conversations with investors have highlighted expectations of Softbank investing in Jio and hence the news flow is not surprising." Masayoshi Son told stakeholders at SoftBank World 2017, an annual conference, SoftBank is aiming not just at one technology, one business model, one brand to drive the world. No. We want to form a coalition of like-minded people, comrades, entrepreneurs we want to form a group, everyone to work together to create a revolution. If he is successful, it will certainly be fascinating to see his vision come to life. RAKESH SHARMA Apple store in Mumbai Whats common to Fifth Avenue in New York City, Regent Street in London, IFC in Hong Kong, Ginza in Tokyo, Champs-Elysees in Paris? Well, for one, they are among the most upmarket and prestigious streets in the most prominent cities of the world. For another, a consistent major attraction on all these streets is the Apple Store. And now it appears Mumbai could have its own brush with Apple Store fame. Despite Tim Cook declaring India a crucial market for Apple in the long term, the Cupertino giants inroads into India have been far from successful. Less expensive Chinese brands like Vivo and Xiaomi rule the roost here. This, price cut for the premium iPhone XR notwithstanding. Will a new store in a posh part of Mumbai generate more interest in India? We will know in a few weeks when Apple announces where in Mumbai the Apple Store will be. With that bit of juicy Apple news sidenote: Indians may not rush to buy Apple stuff but we sure love talking about them lets get to the biggest stories of the India. My name is Rakesh Sharma, and you are listening to Moneycontrol. Jet Airways gets unknown suitors Checking in with the Jet saga first, there are some unknown bidders who have shown interest in the embattled airline, struggling to survive. A British citizen called Jason Unsworth, founder of airline startup Atmosphere Intercontinental Airlines (and a relatively unknown and mischievous entrepreneur) has joined hands with Lakshay Uttam, the founder of My World Ventures, and Amsterdam-based travel and hospitality firm to submit a bid. Uttam even went so far as to say the two have been in touch with Naresh Goyal. Goyals daughter has refuted these claims. Future Trend and Adi Partners earlier teamed up with Jet Airways founder Naresh Goyal to submit an expression of interest for the airline. Redcliffe Capital submitted the EoI along with Think Capital. But, none of those was shortlisted to put in a bid. The shortlisted bidders are Etihad Airways, TPG Capital, Indigo Partners and the NIIF. May 10 is the deadline to submit bids for Jet Airways. Jet suspended all its operations on the 17th April, and since then the future of once the largest airline in the country has been in grave jeopardy. The employees, in an almost cinematic move, have come up with their own proposal to prevent the airline from sinking, but SBI Caps, which is overseeing the bidding process, will take the final decision. Etihad and Jet Privilege In more Jet-related news, Moneycontrol has learnt that The Enforcement Directorate is probing Etihads 2014 investment in JetPrivilege, the company that operated Jet Airways frequent-flier programme. According to our source in the ED, Etihads Rs 900-crore investment in JetPrivilege may have been a violation of FDI limit norms. The ED has called the senior management of Jet Airways next week to understand the deal structure. Moneycontrol has also learnt that the ED is looking into Naresh Goyals investments in various foreign airlines. These troubles at Jet are in addition to the recent discrepancies the IT department found in the books of the airline. Jet set gone? We will know soon enough. Neogen chemicals is a neostar in the bourses From a veteran company in its unexpected sunset days to a company that is in its infancy on Dalal Street, Neogen Chemicals listed its shares at Rs 251 apiece on BSE, a premium of 16.74 per cent against the issue price of Rs 215. The initial public offer (IPO) of Neogen Chemicals, which ran between April 24 and April 26, received huge response from the investors as the issue was overall subscribed 41.18 times. The price band for the issue was Rs 212 to Rs 215 per share. The stock rallied 22.58 percent to close at Rs 263.55 on the BSE, which was also an intraday high. Compared to the opening price of Rs 251, the stock was locked in 5 percent upper circuit. On the NSE also, it closed at the same price against issue price of Rs 215. Volume was at 2.88 lakh shares on the BSE and 13.58 lakh shares on the NSE. At closing price, Neogen's market capitalisation stood at 614.98 crore. Show me more moner, says DBS in Patanjali-Ruchi Soya case Patanjalis first-ever major acquisition has run into some troubled waters. According to a PTI report, Singaporean lender DBS Bank Wednesday moved the NCLT seeking a higher payout from the Rs 4,350-crore offer by Patanjali to take over the crippled edible oil firm Ruchi Soya. An NCLT bench of judges asked Ruchi Soya and DBS, which holds the first charge for the plant and the machinery of the crippled company, to file their detailed submissions by May 10. Making its case for a relook at the payout for financial creditors, DBS said it enjoys the first charge for the plant and the machinery of Ruchi Soya which owes Rs 243 crore to it through an external commercial borrowing. Just as a reminder, the fair value of Ruchi Soya is Rs 4,161 crore, and it owes over Rs 9,345 crore to the lenders led by SBI. Wilbur Ross says things Wilbur Ross, the United States Commerce Secretary (and a contemporary of Montgomery Burns) has come down to India and come down hard on it. Accusing India of imposing restrictive trade policies that burden foreign companies, Ross has echoed much the same things that Donald Trump has said about India, which he dubs Tariff King. Among the concerns that Ross has voiced is the issue of data localization. The Indian stand is that financial and other sensitive information about its citizens should be stored in the country something the US would like changed. Ross said at an event, Currently, US businesses face significant market access barriers in India. These include both tariff and non-tariff barriers, as well as multiple practices and regulations that disadvantage foreign companies. The US also views Indias ecommerce policy as as being discriminatory toward firms like Amazon and Walmart-owned Flipkart. According to Ross, bilateral trade between the two countries stood at $142 billion in 2018, up $16 billion over 2017. According to Indias numbers, bilateral trade stood at $79.8 billion in April-February FY19, up from $74.5 billion in FY18. The US figures include services as well. India's billionaires are on the rise Whatever your own bank balances might be, the country is busy producing more billionaires than ever. According to a new report by Knight Frank, The number of billionaires in India more than doubled to 119 between 2013 and 2018, and India will lead the global growth in ultrahigh net worth individuals, with its numbers rising 39 percent to 2,697 by 2023. Even as the old guard led by Anil Ambani, Vijay Mallya, Shashi and Ravi Ruia of Essar, Tulsi Tanti of Suzlon Energy have lost their billionaire status, the country has seen the rise of the young tech entrepreneur, with the likes of Sachin Bansal, Binny Bansal, Vijay Shekhar Sharma, and Byju Raveendran all reaching billionaire status in this new economy led by the digital revolution. GDP Kraken might rise again In a new development to add to the saga of revised GDP data, Mint has revealed in an exclusive report, quoting NSSO, that Key data used to compute GDP numbers under the new method are now turning out to be patently dodgy. The National Sample Survey Office (NSSO) has found that 36 per cent of the companies taken into account for the new GDP calculation are either untraceable or had been categorised wrongly. Should these companies numbers be removed from the analysis, the India GDP story is likely to read very differently. The ET reported, NSSO stumbled upon these serious anomalies while the 74th round of its survey of the services sector was underway, the report revealed. 15 per cent of the companies in MCA-21 which lists details such as addresses were found to be either closed or untraceable. 21 per cent of the companies turned out to be "out of coverage" which meant they were not functioning in the service sector despite having registered themselves under that head and continuing to feature in official data as se rvice sector entities. Even many of the correct entries those registered under and operating in the service sector either didn't answer NSSO's questions, or had not maintained any useful data. The issue of non-response was the starkest in the case of companies picked from the MCA-21 database, the NSSO said. About 45% of MCA units were found to be "out-of-survey/casualty" while the "economic census/business register" frame had about 18% such cases, the Mint report said quoting R Nagaraj, Professor, Indira Gandhi Institute of Development Research. MCA-21 is a database of companies of the Ministry of Corporate Affairs. The ministry had deemed these companies as active companies. The use of MCA-21, which the Central Statistics Office sourced from the Corporate Affairs ministry, was one of the most important changes made to the computing process when the new GDP series was launched in 2015. After the change in the base year, the preceding years GDP numbers were revised, ostensibly, to arrive at a fair comparison. The new series adjusted GDP numbers for fiscal years 2005-12 using new methodology with FY12 as the base year. The main takeaway was that GDP growth during UPA's came out lower with a peak of 10.3% in FY11 (later scaled back to 8.5%) under the back series. It also showed the first four years under Modi as clocking a higher average growth compared to the UPA years. Following the back-series revision, average growth under UPA for FY06-12 fell to 6.82% from the earlier 7.75%. In comparison, average growth in four years under Modi was found to be 7.35%, significantly higher than the Manmohan-era numbers. It appears its now time for this can of worms to reopened. MI Corazon: Deepak Shanghvi still hearts Suzlon Despite witnessing degrading financial health year after year, Indian billionaire Dilip Shanghvi is not yet ready to give up on renewable-energy major Suzlon Energy. In an interview with Bloomberg, Shanghvi expressed intentions to stay invested in the unprofitable wind-turbine maker, adding that policy hurdles were responsible for lower demand for Suzlons wind turbines and the resultant cash squeeze. If I look at outcome then clearly that investment hasnt had a great outcome, said the founder of Indias largest drugmaker Sun Pharma. In 2015, Shanghvi bought 23 percent stake in Suzlon for Rs 18 billion (Rs 1,800 crore), helping the company to return to profitability after it became Indias largest convertible-bond defaulter in 2012. The 63-year-old businessman opined that his investment in Suzlon, four years ago, was based on the assessment that within the renewable-energy sector the company had the product and the future pipeline, which will allow them to grow. However, in the last couple of years, India has shifted from fixed-tariff program to auctions for wind projects, thereby increasing competition among suppliers. This, in turn, has significantly impacted the business of Suzlon as its market share and profit margins went tumbling. Competition from companies such as Vestas Wind Systems A/S and Senvion SA has added to the woes of the turbine maker. In April, rating agency Care Rating had cut the long-term bank facilities of the company to default from BB after Suzlon failed to meet a repayment obligation to its lenders. Moreover, it has $172 million in foreign-currency convertible bonds due in July. Suzlon's market value peaked at Rs 10,900 crore, a few weeks after Shanghvi announced his investment. However, the value has plunged over Rs 7,600 crore since then to Rs 3,300 crore, as on May 8. Donald Trump is a loser (of a lot of money) By the time his master-of-the-universe memoir Trump: The Art of the Deal hit bookstores in 1987, Donald J. Trump was already in deep financial distress, losing tens of millions of dollars on troubled business deals, according to previously unrevealed figures from his federal income tax returns. Thus begins an explosive report by The New York Times about the financial health of Donald Trump in the years between 1985 and 1994. To describe it, I would have to borrow one of his characteristic descriptors: Sad! The Times said, The data printouts from Mr. Trumps official Internal Revenue Service tax transcripts, with the figures from his federal tax form, the 1040, for the years 1985 to 1994 represents the fullest and most detailed look to date at the presidents taxes, information he has kept from public view. The numbers show that in 1985, Mr. Trump reported losses of $46.1 million from his core businesses largely casinos, hotels and retail space in apartment buildings. They continued to lose money every year, totaling $1.17 billion in losses for the decade. In a break from what has been tradition for presidential nominees for over forty years, Donald Trump had not submitted his tax returns doing the 2016 elections. Two years since taking office, he has still not submitted them citing, initially, that he was under audit, and over time, turning belligerent and suggesting that he was not obliged to submit them. The Democrats, who in last years midterm elections, took over the House have now submitted several requests for the President to submit his tax returns, something he has defiantly refused to do, going so far as suing his creditors in a bid to prevent them from releasing his financial information. Trump has always been touchy about how much wealth he possesses, largely because it is quite likely he does not possess very much, or that whatever he does possess is what he inherited from his father. In 2018 dollars, he received more than 400 million dollars from his father. Part of the reason why he appealed to a large section of crossover America was his tales about his extraordinary wealth and his acumen in making business deals. Blue collar America saw in him someone inspirational. That lie about his wealth was very much the foundation of his personal mythology. Doubts about his wealth have existed for as long as The Donald has been in the public eye. A marketing genius, he understands how important the idea of him being thought of as rich and successful is to his brand. But being the deal-making dud and an overall failure of a businessman that he is, alas, his (stubby) hands have never quite been able to grab what his mind may have conjured. What is his financial health now? Did its continued deterioration lead to him cutting nefarious deals that have not come to light yet? Do they have anything to do with Russia? Could the fear of being caught in his attempts to appease adversaries have guided him to obstruct justice? All these questions might find answers should his full and transparent tax returns be released. The House Democrats now have a job to do. And perhaps a president to impeach. Minutes before Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) candidate Atishi arrives at the J J camp in East Delhi's Anand Vihar to begin her campaign trail for the day, a party worker tries to galvanize the cadre by hollering into the microphone: "Ek aurat jinhone itna kaam kiya hain Dilli ke logon ke liye, ek aisi aurat ko kya hum sansad mein dekhna chahenge? Unhone ek aurat hoke itna kaam kiya hain desh ke liye, kya hum unko jitayenge?" (A woman who has done so much work for Delhi's residents, do we want to see such a woman in Parliament? Being a woman she has worked so much for the country, should we make her win?) As Delhi is set to vote on May 12, perhaps the dichotomy that guides Singh's campaign as she fights it out in East Delhi, is whether to seek votes on the basis of her vast body of work in the education sector or give in to the tropes of gender and caste identities. That in Indian politics one cannot seek a term without aligning with identity politics of any kind, becomes clear when even supposed progressive and secular parties and candidates fall for the familiar banality. As an advisor on education to the AAP-led Delhi government, under her supervision, public school infrastructure in Delhi improved and her interventions brought an enthusiasm about government schools. Education featured prominently in AAP's election manifesto ahead of the 2015 Delhi elections. After it won in a landslide victory, the party made good on its promise and allocated 24% of the total outlay to education in its first budget in June 2015. In the next three years, the Delhi government sought to reform every group involved in public education. Campaigns were organised to help struggling children read. A cadre of 200 mentor teachers was created to support schools and teachers locally. New workbooks and teaching material were designed. And much of it happened under the leadership of Singh. Yet, her campaign trail is marked by an urgency to make her voters identify with her as a woman first, rather than her own work, something that probably wouldn't be the case with her male colleagues. "Naturally, women voters connect to me more than they would to a male politician. And I think there needs to be more women in politics because womens voices need to come forward," Atishi tells Moneycontrol. "There might be a lot of women who would vote for me because I am a woman politician. But the reason that its legitimate is because women are a marginal population whose voice need to be represented." As she enters the settlement to meet the residents, an angry voice of a woman is ready to greet her. "Teen mahine se aise gande paani mein reh rahe hain. Nala phat ke paani bhar gaya hain, kisiko kuch pari nahi hain. Aur yeh aai hain vote mangne? Aayein zara mujhse baat karne, batati hoon vote ka," screams Malti, a resident of J J Camp. (We are living in this dirty water for three months. The drainpipe burst and the area is full of water, nobody cares. And now she has come to ask for votes? Let her come and talk to me, I'll tell her about vote.) A close look at the area and one can see pools of dirty water clogging the roads. There is no way of avoiding stepping into the water if one needs to go out or come into the colony. And not just water-clogging, but even drinking water is an issue in the area. "The pipeline has been constructed but there is no connection yet," says Pinki, a resident of the area. The party cadres try hard to pacify the residents by saying the sitting MLA is from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). But the anger among the residents are palpable as everyone tells Atishi that leaders forget their voters after elections are over and they are forced to live in squalid conditions. "See, a lot of these can be resolved if the local councilors, local MLAs work with the concerned departments. The problem with this locality is that the councilor is BJP, the MLA is BJP and the MP is from BJP. And when we look at this locality, we see nothing has happened here. And that is why the AAP got such a positive response in this area," Atishi says. Atishi has been going from door to door and urging residents to give Kejriwal, and not her, a chance to serve the people. "Aamma, aap iss baar Kejriwalji ko vote deke dekhiyein, yeh saare samassyaon ka woh samadhan kar denge (Mother, this time vote for Kejriwalji, he'll solve all these problems,)" she assures an elderly woman who complains about the water crisis. Despite the opposition's scathing attack on BJP being a party that is run by two men (Narendra Modi and Amit Shah), AAP's appeal to voters to vote for Arvind Kejriwal sounds surprisingly familiar. Atishi, in her campaign trail, has been urging voters to vote for Kejriwal's symbol, a broom, instead of seeking votes in her name. Why then should the party attack BJP's centralisation so vehemently? "Everyone recognises Kejriwal. It's unfortunate that despite doing so much work in education, Atishi ma'am's name wouldn't draw voters as much as Kejriwal ji's would. That's how it is. But we are different from BJP in that we have done work," says a party cadre on condition of anonymity. That Atishi has been able renew an interest in school among children is evident from the smiles on their faces when asked about school. "Mujhe accha lagta hain school jana. Madam didi saare bohot acche hain. School bhi bohot sundar hain (I love going to school. Teachers are all very nice. The school is also very beautiful)," says 12-year-old Vicky. The party also tries hard to milk this with the voters as the cadres go from door-to-door telling people that it was Atishi who changed the face of government schools in Delhi and if given a chance, she would also solve their other issues. But are the residents convinced? "Sabko chance diya hain. BJP ko pichle baar diya tha. Phir bhi dekhiyein kya haalat hain yahan ka. Sab ek jaise hi hain. Par madam ne schools to bohot accha bana diya hain. Dekhte hain inko mauka deke (We have given a chance to everyone. Last time we voted for BJP. Despite that, see what's the condition of the area. All are the same. But madam has made schools better. Let's give her a chance once)," says Daulatram, who owns a shop in the area. After the work done in the sector of education, Atishi says the next step would be to fix the state of higher education in Delhi. "I think while we have managed to do some good work in school education, a lot needs to be done in higher education. Theres a shortage of higher education opportunities in Delhi. There are 2.5 lakh students who pass out of school every year. There are only one lakh seats in higher education. And out of those one lakh too there are students who come from all over the country. We had a spectacular class 12 results yesterday. Despite that, most of the government school students will end up pursuing higher education in correspondence because there arent enough seats," she says. In its manifesto, AAP promised an 85% quota to residents of Delhi in city colleges. Wouldn't that be unfair to the students coming from outside Delhi, I ask. "Everyone is welcome to study in DU. Issue is there has to be enough colleges for Delhis students," Atishi says staunchly. The election campaign for 2019 has been marked by acrimonious personal attacks, consolidation of votebanks based on caste lines, and polarisation of voters. Singh herself had been accused by a Congress leader of being a Jew, which was followed by Atishi coming out and publicly stating that she was a Punjabi Rajput. Atishi, who used to use Marlena as her surname, formed from combining the surnames of Karl Marx and Vladimir Lenin, dropped her second name. While the opposition criticised the ruling party of polarisation, they haven't themselves been able to escape aligning with caste identities to woo voters. "I have never discussed my religion, my caste or which part of the country I come from," she says. "I am fighting from East Delhi where around 10% of the population is Punjabi. But that is not a plank that I have taken up asking for votes." But is there a need to assert ones religious or caste identity in Indian politics? "As I said, I never asserted my caste or religious identity. This is not something I am asking votes on the basis of. But if blatant lies are being told, it has to be corrected in the public domain," Atishi counters. The AAP has on various occasions been criticised as a party that lacks proper ideology. Opposition parties and critics have often stated that a party's ideology cannot be anti-corruption, thereby questioning its intent in serious politics. "These are words of people who do not have any work to show, either in the central government or in their MCD govt or in the 15 years of Cong govt before AAP. And hence they have to come up with all kinds of illogical things," laughs Atishi. The BJP has been vociferous in its intent to solve the issue of illegal migrants. It won elections in Assam after actively campaigning that it would "drive out illegal migrants." It is also campaigning on the same lines in Bengal, where it accuses the incumbent Trinamool Congress government of being soft on the issue of illegal migration from Bangladesh. In Delhi, Singh's constituency of East Delhi too has an issue of illegal migration. "There is a difference between illegal immigrants from Bangladesh and Bengal. People from Bengal have a very legitimate right to be here. As far as illegal immigrants from Bangladesh are concerned, I think its the responsibility of the central government to ensure that illegal immigration doesnt happen," she says. Before leaving the camp area, Atishi tells the residents that all of their problems can only be sorted with "poorna rajya (complete statehood)". AAP has been actively seeking full statehood, accusing the central government of interference. It has also said on various occasions that because Delhi Police doesn't come under the jurisdiction of the state government, it has no control over Delhi's safety and security issues. "As of now, there is no security in Delhi because Delhi Police doesnt come under the state government. The government cannot open new colleges. Similarly for jobs, the government cannot take out any new vacancies because services lie with central govt. And all of these problems can be resolved only with full statehood," she asserts. How far Atishi's work in the field of education will help her in securing a Lok Sabha seat, only time will say. But that accountability as an elected candidate is distinct from that of an advisor, is something perhaps has been made clear from the wrath of residents for failures that weren't even hers. Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia described Prime Minister Narendra Modi's speech in Delhi as "jumlebaazi" (rhetoric), saying the real name of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) should be 'Bharatiya Jumla Party'. The Aam Aadmi Party said Modi could not even tell five development works that had been implemented by his seven Delhi MPs. "Modi ji you forgot the mention of the fifth political tradition of jumlapanti. Fifteen lakh, full statehood, promise to stop terrorism and stopping black money all turned out to be 'jumlas'. The real name of the BJP should be Bharatiya Jumla Party," Sisodia tweeted. The AAP pointed out that as per the current constitutional set-up, the prime minster and the central government have a very special role in the administrative scheme of Delhi, saying they are directly responsible for land (Delhi Development Authority), police, services and public order in Delhi. "That's the very reason that PM cannot run away from Delhi but just delivering a JUMLA-filled speech for Delhites. He should have presented his report card of last 5 years for Delhi," AAP spokesperson Saurabh Bharadwaj said in a statement. "We spoke to a lot of traders and shopkeepers, they are so disappointed because Modi ji offered no solution for Sealing. People expected him to promise a legislation or Ordinance to stop Sealing but Modi ji is not even promising," the AAP said. On land aspect, the AAP said 60 per cent of the people of Delhi live in unauthorised colonies, but Modi did not explain why the government had "deliberately" stalled regularisation process of these colonies. The AAP said Modi did not tell the people of Delhi why he and the lieutenant governor created "continuous hurdles" for every welfare scheme for Delhites. "He did not explain why doctors, teachers, officers are not being recruited in Delhi in spite of over 2 lakh vacancies," the statement said. "Sadly, Prime Minsiter could not tell even five development works which have been implemented by his seven Members of Parliament." The AAP said law and order is a serious issue and pointed out that the Delhi police is directly under Modi. "There is large scale corruption in the Delhi police and Delhi police needs large scale recruitment, but Modi ji did not even mention the solution for this critical issue," it added. Union minister Smriti Irani blasted Congress chief Rahul Gandhi, saying his party has "joined hands" with a political outfit whose candidate was baying for Prime Minister Narendra Modis blood. Taking a jibe at Gandhi, the BJP leader said he was day-dreaming to become the next prime minister. "I am saddened that the Congress politics has stooped so low. His ally says give Rs 50 crore to kill Modi. I want to ask Rahul Gandhi with whom you had forged an alliance, its candidate has said if he gets money he will kill Modi. "The Congress has joined hands with such people," Irani said at an election rally here. "Is this the so called love which Rahul was showing for Modi? she asked. Irani was apparently referring to a video in which Tej Bahadur Yadav, the sacked BSF soldier whose nomination as the SP candidate from Varanasi was rejected by the EC, is purportedly talking about assassinating Modi. Taking potshots at Gandhi, she said, "He is a gentleman who winked in Parliament." She said people witnessed Gandhis gesture of supporting those who raised the slogan of "Bharat Tere Tukde Honge (India will be dismembered) at a university in Delhi. "Not only this, Congress leaders have called the Army chief a goon and the Air Force chief a liar," she said. Describing Modi as a poor womans son, who is the prime servant of the country, the BJP leader said he has provided toilets and cooking gas facility to crores of women in the country under the NDA government's welfare schemes. Irani has contested against Gandhi in the Amethi Lok Sabha seat, which went to the polls on May 6. Sagar is among the eight Lok Sabha seats in Madhya Pradesh that will go the polls on May 12. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath alleged that the Congress doesn't deserve to get votes as it is "more concerned about Pakistan than India". Addressing a poll rally here to canvass for the BJP's Guna Lok Sabha seat candidate K P Yadav, Adityanath alleged that not only Congress president Rahul Gandhi, but his sister and the party's general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra too speaks lies. "Rahul Gandhi does not deserve votes as he is more concerned about Pakistan. If India is in trouble, he doesn't think about the people," the BJP leader told an election meeting here. He alleged that the Congress president sensed defeat in Amethi which is why he contested the polls also from Wayanad in Kerala. Referring to a viral video, purportedly showing children using abusive language in front of Priyanka Gandhi, Adityanath alleged, "She was teaching abuses to children after people refused to vote for the Congress. This is not a good conduct on the part of a woman." Priyanka Gandhi Vadra had earlier clarified that she had stopped children from raising wrong slogans and asked them to raise good slogans. Adityanath also claimed that what the Narendra Modi government achieved in the last five years, the Congress could not do in 50 years. Voting in the final two phases of Lok Sabha elections in Bihar will seal the fate of five Union Ministers. Bihar, with its 40 parliamentary constituencies, is among the states which are voting in all seven phases of the ongoing general elections. The first five phases witnessed polling in 24 seats and the remaining 16 seats will vote on May 12 and May 19, respectively. The BJP has nominated its ministers on five seats in these two phases, including Union Minister for Law and Justice, Electronics and Information Technology Ravi Shankar Prasad who is making his debut. The minister was nominated from Patna Sahib Lok Sabha seat in place of sitting MP and then rebellious BJP leader Shatrughan Sinha. Later, Sinha quit BJP and joined Congress. They are now contesting against each other. In Pataliputra, Union Minister of State for Rural Development Ram Kripal Yadav is contesting against Misa Bharti, daughter of Rashtriya Janata Dal (JD) chief Lalu Prasad. Apart from these two high-profile contests, Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Radha Mohan Singh is contesting from East Champaran. Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare Ashwini Kumar Choubey is contesting against senior RJD leader Jagadanand Singh. In Arrah, Minister of State for New and Renewable Energy RK Singh is contesting. West Bengal Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress supremo Mamata Banerjee on May 9 denied having said that she will slap Prime Minister Narendra Modi and asserted she had said he would get the "tight slap of democracy". Modi had told a rally at Bankura earlier in the day that Banerjee had said she would slap him, which would actually be a blessing for him. Speaking at a rally at Simulia in Purulia district ahead of the sixth phase of polls, Banerjee elaborated that by "slap of democracy" she meant the peoples' mandate expressed through their votes. "He (Modi) is saying that I have said I will slap him. Arrey that's the slap of democracy. Try to understand the language," Banerjee said. "Why should I be slapping you (the PM). I am not that kind of a person. What I understand is democracy. Slap of democracy means that the mandate people will give by casting their votes," the Trinamool Congress supremo said. Banerjee had during a campaign rally at Raghunathpur in the district on May 7 said that Modi should get a "tight slap of democracy". The prime minister said "I am told Didi has said she wants to slap me. I call you Didi, I respect you. Your slap will be a blessing for me." Echoing sentiments expressed by the Prime Minister over the use of INS Viraat by late Rajiv Gandhi for a family vacation, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley on May 9 said while the "kaamdars" used India's naval fleet to strike at terror, "naamdars" used them for personal reasons. "The Kaamdars use India's naval assets to strike at terror. The Naamdars use them for personal vacations with family and in-laws," Jaitley said in a tweet. Prime Minister Narendra Modi often uses the word "naamdar" to refer to the members of the Gandhi family, and "kaamdar" for people who work hard for the nation. Modi, during an election rally on May 8, had accused the Gandhi family of using warship INS Viraat as its "personal taxi" for a holiday when Rajiv Gandhi was India's prime minister between 1984-89. "Rajiv Gandhi was accompanied by his in-laws (on INS Viraat) who had come from Italy. The question is whether the security of the country was not compromised by taking foreigners onboard a warship," Modi asked. Rajiv Gandhi was assassinated on May 21, 1991, at Sriperumbudur in Tamil Nadu. In a separate tweet, Jaitley said that the Congress party which had blamed DMK for Gandhi's assassination has now tied up with the regional party in Tamil Nadu during the ongoing general election. "From December 1990 till May 1991, when Shri Rajiv Gandhi was assassinated, the Congress Party-supported Chandra Shekhar government was in power. "From May 1991 till 2004, the Congress blamed its present ally the DMK for Shri Rajiv Gandhi's assassination. It even withdrew support from the United Front government on this ground. 28 years later, today a desperate Congress has discovered a BJP role," Jaitley said. Jaitley's remark came in response to senior Congress leader Ahmed Patel's assertion that the BJP-backed V P Singh government had refused to provide Rajiv Gandhi with additional security and left the former prime minister with one PSO despite credible intelligence inputs and repeated requests. Actor-turned-politician Shatrughan Sinha, who quit BJP and joined the Congress, on May 9 lashed out at the saffron party over reports in a section of the media that party president Amit Shahs proposed roadshow here later this week would show him his aukaat (worth). Shah is scheduled to hold a roadshow here on Saturday evening. It is slated to commence from Kadam Kuan locality, where Sinhas ancestral house is situated and criss-cross several narrow streets in densely populated localities before concluding near the historic Gandhi Maidan, according to sources in the BJP. I have heard that Shah is coming to Patna. He is welcome as every guest is. He would be served tea and also pakodas which he and his ilk seem to be very fond of, Sinha, also called 'Shotgun', said in an obvious dig at Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The prime minister while replying to complaints of job crisis, had said that selling fritters should also be seen as an employment. But I have learnt that some people say he is coming here to show me my aukaat (worth). This is going to backfire. Seems the BJP has not learnt its lessons from the assembly polls of 2015 when the DNA remark (by the prime minister) had cost the NDA dearly, he told PTI here. Modi, while attacking Nitish Kumar at a rally in Muzaffarpur in July 2015 ahead of the Bihar assembly polls had said that it seemed that there was some problem with Nitish Kumars DNA, referring to the frequent change of political allegiance of Nitish Kumar. The BJP had lost the election and Kumar had gone on to form the government along with allies RJD and the Congress. They (BJP) are once again insulting a dharti putra (son of the soil). The people of Bihar in general and Patna in particular have been hurt and they will give a befitting reply on the day of polling, said Sinha, who quit the BJP last month and is now seeking to retain Patna Sahib on a Congress ticket. When senior BJP leader and Bihar minister Nand Kishore Yadav had announced Shahs programme at a press conference here Wednesday, questions were raised as to whether the starting point has been decided to tease Sinha since there are many wider streets which could have been chosen. Yadav, who represents one of the assembly segments falling under Patna Sahib, had dismissed the questions saying Who cares about the Congress candidate without mentioning Sinha by name. Reports have surfaced in a section of the media here quoting BJP sources that the route has been deliberately chosen to show Sinha, who had been critical of the leadership of Modi and Shah even while within the BJP, his aukaat (worth). The Congress on Thursday accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of making Indian Air Force jets his "own taxi" and paying "as low as" Rs 744 for using IAF aircraft for election trips. Congress' chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala cited a media report to attack the prime minister. "Distraction and fakery is your last resort. You have made Indian Air Force jets your own Taxi! You have paid as low as Rs 744 for using IAF jets for election trips!" Surjewala said. "Scared of your own sins haunting you, you are shamelessly pointing fingers on others!" he said, in an apparent reference to Modi's allegation that the late Rajiv Gandhi used INS Viraat as a "personal taxi" on a family vacation. The media report, based on an RTI, said the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) paid a total of Rs 1.4 crore to the IAF for 240 "non-official domestic trips" made by Modi since the start of his tenure as prime minister till January 2019. "In some cases, the amount paid seemed to be quite low. For example, the BJP paid Rs 744 for a 'H/P Balangir-H/P Patharchera' trip by Modi on January 15, 2019," the report said. Abhijit Iyer-Mitra The Israeli strike on the cyber-attack infrastructure of Hamas presents us with a new set of problems regarding the rules of war. On May 6, the Israeli military put out an announcement saying that they had responded to Hamas cyber activities. An unspecified Hamas cyber-attack on Israel apparently took place and Israel responded by taking out Hamas cyber headquarters with a precision guided bomb, destroying both infrastructure and the people (and hence accumulated expertise) manning it. While a mistaken impression was created that this was a standalone, it was not, for a variety of legal reasons. The first issue is one of proportionality. A lethal attack in response to a non-lethal cyber-attack has been discussed but never acted upon precisely because of issues of proportionality. After all how do you justify killing a bunch of people that simply sent your computer haywire! This is why one must remember that this attack happened not as a standalone operation, but was clubbed in with the Israeli military response to Hamas rockets hitting southern Israel. This is not different from what NATO did during the bombing of Serbia in 1999. By itself hitting Serbian TV that was putting out a steady stream of anti-NATO content lampooning its leaders would have been a war crime. However NATO justified the killing of 16 people in Serbian TV headquarters as part of the extended NATO bombing campaign. As such this loophole is called accretion of events, which enables a retaliation not proportionate to the actual provocation but rather to an accumulated set of provocations, which has of late included non-kinetic attacks in the entirety of events. To explain this simply, scenario one: Think of your friend hacking your computer and preventing you from accessing your Gmail (its a non-kinetic attack). The question is do you have the right to kill her in self-defence, and is this an explanation that will hold up in court? Obviously not. Scenario two: Now consider your friend turned out to be a psycho. She was hiding in your bedroom, wired your computer to electrocute you (its a kinetic attack) when you touched the keyboard, hacked your email and changed the password (a non-kinetic attack) and then attacked you with a knife (a kinetic attack) when you entered the room. In scenario one no court would uphold you killing your friend. In scenario two you could very well get away with killing your friend on the grounds of self-defence and a court would have little hesitation in accepting your defence. What Israel did on May 6 and what NATO did in 1999 was closer to scenario two, though much of the reportage surrounding it would suggest it was scenario one. While this is the case that both Israel and NATO would like to make it is not so simple. The fact remains that the exact match would actually be scenario three: Your psycho friend waiting for you in the room has brought her friend along. While she tries to electrocute you and stab you, the friend was only responsible for hacking your email, and yet you kill both; your justification being the friend was her partner in crime. So while Israel is trying to portray what it did as scenario two to conflate issues and confer legality on its actions, what it actually did was scenario three. On the other hand, Israels detractors and those advocating kinetic retaliation against non-kinetic strikes have an interest in portraying scenario three as scenario one, ignoring the psycho altogether. In a court, while defending your actions in scenario three, you would get away with killing your psycho friend, but you could not get away with killing her friend (who hacked your email), unless you can prove the hacker friend was going to attack you. This is where the principle of prevention versus pre-emption comes in. Prevention is illegal but pre-emption is not. So if after you killed your psycho friend, you saw the hacker friend in one corner and a knife in the other and killed her assuming she would attack you, a judge would convict you. This is prevention. However, if the hacker friend picked up the knife and charged you before you killed her, that is pre-emption and the judge would have to acquit you. This is possibly why Israel is refusing to divulge the details of the Hamas cyber-attack, if it would have real world kinetic consequences (like turning on and off traffic lights in Israel leading to road accidents and deaths) or if it was non-lethal (not allowing you to access your bank account causing economic losses). The truth is one will probably never know, but shifts in law happen when one repeatedly breaks the law and makes it the new normal, as was done with targeted killing by drones. Attempted assassinations used to be illegal till the 1990s, but repeat iterations by United States and Israeli drones in the 2000s made it a legally acceptable norm. The question is, will Israel make this the new norm or keep it as an exception, all indicators being that Israel just opened a new paradigm of war. Abhijit Iyer-Mitra is a defence economist and senior fellow at Institute of Peace and Conflict Studies, New Delhi. He tweets at @iyervval. Views are personal. For more Opinion pieces, click here Samsung recently suspended all orders of its Galaxy Fold indefinitely. The once revolutionary foldable handset made waves for its innovative tech but is now plagued with reliability issues. Once hailed for being the first company to launch the first commercially available folding handset, Samsung is now facing severe backlash due to the Folds failure to deliver on its near $2000 price. While the South Korean tech giant attempted to play down the Folds initial failure, it didnt last long with the company ordering a recall on all Fold units, requesting Galaxy Fold teardowns be removed and halting consumer shipments. Samsung recently sent a mail to all Galaxy Fold pre-order customers stating: "If we do not hear from you and we have not shipped by May 31st, your order will be cancelled automatically. At the moment, only customers who have already ordered the $2000 handset and who've confirmed that they want to receive will be getting their hands on the Galaxy Fold. According to a report by the Korean Herald, Samsungs CEO Dong-jin Koh claims that the company has reviewed the issue regarding the Galaxy Folds failure and will reach a conclusion by tomorrow. On the subject of whether or not the Fold would make a comeback this month, Koh said, we will not be too late. Samsung also told the Korean Herald that it is making manufacturing changes to the Galaxy Fold after testing the defective review samples. The company is reinforcing the hinge, reducing the gap between the bezel and improving the protective coating to prevent dust and other particles from finding their way onto the Fold's display. And, while Samsung is in the process of fixing the Fold's defects, it does not have the luxury of time. US regulations require Samsung to ship the pre-ordered foldable handsets by the 31st of May or it may be forced to refund US pre-orders the $1980 for the handset. Also Read: Samsung Galaxy Fold vs Huawei Mate X: Which one is the best foldable smartphone? China has threatened to retaliate if US President Donald Trump raises tariffs on USD 200 billion worth of goods ahead of the crucial 11th round of talks aimed at ending the trade war between the world's two largest economies. The talks are due to be held on May 9-10 in Washington between trade delegations headed by Chinese Vice Premier Liu He and US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer and US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin amid accusations by Washington that Beijing is backtracking from consensus reached on key issues in the earlier rounds of talks. Ahead of the talks, US President Donald Trump said that he would raise tariffs on USD 200 billion worth of Chinese goods from 10 per cent to 25 per cent as of May 10 in a bid to pile up pressure on China to conclude the talks to end the trade war at the earliest. In a late-night announcement on Wednesday, the Chinese Commerce Ministry while expressing regret over the planned measures by the US to raise tariffs on imported Chinese products, said it would launch retaliatory measures in kind. Stating that escalating trade frictions is against the interests of the two peoples as well as people of the world, the Ministry said: "China deeply regrets this, and will be forced to take necessary counter-measures if the US side puts the tariff measures into effect". However, there appears to be no change from the Chinese side in its participation in the trade as the announcement neither made any reference to the 11th round of talks nor Liu's participation in it. The US and China are locked in a trade war since Trump imposed heavy tariffs on imported steel and aluminium items from China in March last year, a move that sparked fears of a global trade war. In response, China imposed tit-for-tat tariffs on billions of dollars worth of American imports. China is under pressure as its bilateral trade volume with the US, which is second largest trade partner of the European Union (EU), fell by 20 per cent in the first four months of this year. The data - released by the General Administration of Customs (GAC) here said on Wednesday said that from January to April, the trade between the two countries was 1.1 trillion yuan (USD 173 billion), down from 20 per cent in 2017 prior to they engaged in a tit-for-tat trade tussle last year. But at the same time, China's trade surplus with the US, one of the main grievances of the US administration against China, expanded 10.5 per cent to 570.2 billion yuan (USD 84.17 billion) during the period, the GAC said. Trump is demanding China to reduce the USD 375 billion trade deficit. He also called for verifiable measures for protection of Intellectual Property Rights (IPR), technology transfer and more access to American goods in the Chinese markets. He has already increased the tariffs on over USD 250 billion worth of Chinese exports to the US and threatened to extend tariffs on USD 200 billion worth of Chinese imports to 25 per cent. China too slapped reciprocal tariffs on some US exports to the country. If Trump goes ahead with his threat to raise tariffs on USD 200 billion worth of Chinese imports from 10 per cent to 25 per cent Friday, the bilateral trade is poised to tumble further, inflicting deeper wounds on the two sides and claiming collateral damages on others, state-run Global Times reported. China is the world's second largest economy after the US. Despite the escalating war of words, however, White House spokeswoman Sarah Huckabee Sanders said on Wednesday that Beijing had indicated that it wanted to make a deal. US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer, who is scheduled to meet with Liu in Washington, on Monday accused Beijing's trade negotiators of "reneging" on a number of commitments during recently-concluded discussions in Beijing, and confirmed that the US would increase tariffs on billions of dollars of Chinese imports on Friday. The Chinese Commerce Ministry's response could have been more strident, suggesting that Beijing is trying to keep the door open for a resolution, the Hong Kong-based South China Morning Post quoted as saying James Green, a former East Asia minister counsellor for trade at the US' Beijing embassy from 2013 to 2018. The Chinese statement "is the bare minimum they would have to say", said Green, who is now a senior adviser at the Washington-based consultancy McLarty Associates. "They can't say nothing because this is all over the press, the president's tweets are garnering a lot of headlines, the stock markets are gyrating. "Considering the inter-agency fighting, (the Commerce Ministry) doesn't want to leave it up to the Foreign Ministry to say something... It's a sign that the Chinese have been and continue to put an emphasis on negotiation over confrontation," he added. Iran said it had started scaling back parts of its commitments under its 2015 nuclear deal and threatened to do more if world powers did not protect it from US sanctions, a year after Washington pulled out of the pact. President Hassan Rouhani said Tehran would move on to resuming high level uranium enrichment if the remaining signatories - Britain, France, Germany, China and Russia - did not make good on promises to shield its oil and banking sectors in the next 60 days. France's defence minister said he wanted to keep the nuclear deal alive but warned Iran it could face more sanctions if it did not honour its part of the deal. "Today nothing would be worse than Iran, itself, leaving this agreement," Florence Parly told BFM TV. Tensions have risen on the eve of the anniversary of President Donald Trump's withdrawal from the agreement, under which Iran agreed to curbs on its nuclear programme in return for the lifting of international sanctions. The Trump administration has restored U.S. sanctions and extended them, effectively ordering countries around the world to stop buying Iranian oil or face sanctions of their own. In a speech broadcast on national television, Rouhani said he had written to the remaining signatories saying Tehran would start rolling back on its commitments by stopping selling enriched uranium and heavy water to other nations. "NARROWING WINDOW" "If the five countries came to the negotiating table and we reached an agreement, and if they could protect our interests in the oil and banking sectors, we will go back to square one (and will resume our commitments)," Rouhani said. Rouhani warned of a firm response if Iran's nuclear case is referred again to the U.N. Security Council, but said Tehran was ready for negotiations. "The Iranian people and the world should know that today is not the end of the JCPOA," Rouhani said, using the acronym for the nuclear deal. "These are actions in line with the JCPOA." Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif tweeted: "After a year of patience, Iran stops measures that US has made impossible to continue." Zarif said the remaining countries had a "narrowing window" to save the deal. U.N. inspectors said Iran had continued to comply with the deal after the U.S. withdrawal. Washington's European allies, which opposed the U.S. pullout, have tried and failed to come up with ways to blunt the economic impact of the U.S. move while urging Iran to continue to comply. North Korea on Thursday described its firing of rocket artillery and an apparent short-range ballistic missile over the weekend as a regular and defensive military exercise and ridiculed South Korea for criticizing the launches. North Korea's official Korean Central News Agency published a statement by an unnamed military spokesman who called South Korea's criticism a "cock-and-bull story," hours before senior defense officials from South Korea, United States and Japan met in Seoul to discuss the North Korean launches and other security issues. A separate statement by a North Korean foreign ministry spokesman described the launches as a "routine and self-defensive military drill." South Korea's presidential Blue House and Defense Ministry have raised concern that Saturday's launches went against the spirit of an inter-Korean military agreement reached last year to cease all hostile activities and urged North Korea to refrain from acts that could escalate tensions. North Korean state media on Sunday showed leader Kim Jong Un observing live-fire drills of long-range multiple rocket launchers and what appeared to be a new short-range ballistic missile fired from a launch vehicle. South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff a day earlier said it detected North Korea firing multiple projectiles toward the sea from near the eastern town of Wonsan. The launches, which likely represented North Korea's first ballistic missile launch in more than 500 days, were clearly a sign of Pyongyang's frustration at stalled diplomatic talks with Washington meant to provide coveted sanctions relief in return for nuclear disarmament. They also highlighted the fragility of the detente between the Koreas, which in a military agreement reached last September vowed to completely cease "all hostile acts" against each other in land, air and sea. The North Korean statements implied that Saturday's weapons launches counter joint military drills conducted by the United States and South Korea in March and April. The North also criticized the test of a U.S. Minuteman intercontinental ballistic missile from a U.S. Air Force base in California last week. While the United States and South Korea have stopped their annual large-scale military exercises and replaced them with smaller exercises since last year to create room for diplomacy, the North has still criticized the South for continuing joint drills with the United States. The statement by the North Korean military spokesman said the South's military has "no qualification" to vilify the North when they "staged a provocative combined air drill against the sovereign state together with the U.S." and kept silence about the Minuteman test that it said was meant to threaten the North. Some Uber Technologies Inc drivers in the United States and Britain said they will strike, protesting what they call low pay a day before the ride-services company launches its initial public offering, valuing it at as much as $90 billion. Drivers and regulators around the world have criticized Uber's business tactics almost from the moment of its launch. Chief Executive Dara Khosrowshahi, hired to help move the company past a series of scandals and manage the IPO, has promised to treat drivers better. Uber is paying more than a million drivers about $300 million in one-time bonuses for instance, and has changed policies such as allowing riders to tip. Uber has steadfastly and mostly successfully beaten back attempts to compel it to treat drivers as employees, arguing that its main business is a platform that brings riders and drivers together. And the money-losing company is under pressure to cut costs. Uber has 3 million drivers globally, and it is not clear if the work actions can significantly slow service, although organizers have received widespread publicity. "Say no to greed," announced British union group United Private Hire Drivers by Twitter, calling for a "digital picket line" in London and three other cities on Wednesday. In the United States, New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Chicago and several other major cities have planned activities. Many want better pay from Uber rival Lyft Inc, as well. "Both Uber and Lyft have said that the greatest threat to their investors is driver dissatisfaction. They know that they're paying too little to keep drivers satisfied," said Los Angeles organizer Brian Dolber. Uber and Lyft have steadily chipped away at rates, particularly in the more established markets where they have cut back on incentives and bonuses to attract new drivers. They have also devised more complicated formulas for determining what riders pay and what drivers earn. Both companies recently slashed the per-mile rate drivers earn in Los Angeles and San Francisco, and some drivers estimated a loss of 10 percent to 20 percent in earnings. Lyft said its hourly wages have risen over the last two years and on average are over $20 per hour. An Uber respresentative in a statement said that drivers were the heart of the business. "Whether its more consistent earnings, stronger insurance protections or fully-funded four-year degrees for drivers or their families, well continue working to improve the experience for and with drivers,a the person said. Uber noted that a recent study whose authors included current and former Uber employees showed driver gross earnings averaged $21 an hour. Drivers are classified as independent contractors, and lack paid sick and vacation days and must pay their own expenses, such as car maintenance and gasoline. A study by left-leaning Washington think tank Economic Policy Institute calculated that after all costs and taxes, Uber drivers earned the equivalent of $9.21 in hourly wages. Organizing drivers is difficult, though, said San Francisco Bay Area-based Edward Escobar, who founded The Alliance for Independent Workers four years ago. Drivers often work part time and, sometimes, for a variety of ride-hailing and delivery services. In fresh show of naval force in the contested South China Sea, a US guided missile destroyer conducted drills with a Japanese aircraft carrier, two Indian naval ships and a Philippine patrol vessel in the waterway claimed by China, the US Navy said on May 9. While similar exercises have been held in the South China Sea in the past, the combined display by four countries represents a fresh challenge to Beijing as US President Donald Trump threatens to hike tariffs on $200 billion worth of Chinese goods. "Professional engagements with our allies, partners and friends in the region are opportunities to build upon our existing, strong relationships," Commander Andrew J. Klug, the captain of the US destroyer, the USS William P. Lawrence, said in a statement. Japan sent one of its two big aircraft carriers, the Izumo, while India deployed a destroyer, the INS Kolkata, and a tanker, the INS Shakti. The week of joint drills, which ended Wednesday, comes after two other US warships sailed near islands in the region claimed by China on Monday, prompting a protest from Beijing, which said the action infringed its sovereignty. The US Navy says it conducts such freedom of navigation operations in international waters around the world, even in seas claimed by its allies, without political considerations. China claims almost all of the strategic South China Sea with Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan and Vietnam pushing competing claims to parts of the maritime region. The United States, Japan and India do not have any territorial claims there. In a separate challenge to Beijing in Asian waters, the USS William P. Lawrence and another US destroyer sailed through the Taiwan Strait in April separating Taiwan, which Beijing views as a rogue province, from the Chinese mainland. 3 | Russia: 3.9 percent of GDP (Image: Reuters) President Vladimir Putin watched intercontinental nuclear missile launchers roll across Red Square on May 9 as Russia put on its annual show of military might to mark the Soviet Union's World War Two victory over the Nazis. Battling a ratings slump as Russia grinds through a sixth consecutive year of falling real incomes, Putin looked on as thousands of troops marched past and columns of tanks rumbled across the famous square in a display reminiscent of the Cold War era. Putin, whose term ends in 2024, reviewed the parade from a tribune packed with Soviet war veterans, some of whom wore rows of campaign medals and clutched red roses. "We have done and will do everything necessary to ensure the high level of readiness of our armed forces," Putin said. "We call on all countries to recognise our common responsibility to create a security system that is effective and equal for everyone." Russia's ties with the West soured following its annexation of Crimea from Ukraine in 2014, and Moscow has continued to challenge the United States through its staunch support for Syrian President Bashar al-Assad and Venezuela's President Nicolas Maduro. World leaders have attended in the past, but were conspicuous by their absence on Thursday, something the Kremlin played down. Nursultan Nazarbayev, who resigned as Kazakh president in March after three decades in power, was the only notable foreign guest. The Kremlin said it had not invited foreign heads of state but next year's 75th anniversary would be marked with greater pomp as a major milestone. The authorities, backed by state media, use the annual event to boost patriotic feeling at home, something that could help lift Putin's approval rating which, though still high at 66 percent in April, is down from nearly 90 percent five years ago. The display of raw military power is also designed to show the world and potential buyers of military hardware how a modernisation program has changed the face of the Russian military and arms industry. However, military experts say various problems mean Russia had yet to produce in large numbers some of its newest hardware, such as the T-14 Armata battle tank, despite their Red Square outings. NO NEW SHOW-STOPPING WEAPONS Putin has sharply increased military spending over the nearly 20 years he has dominated Russian politics, handed the Russian military significant policy-making clout, and deployed Russian forces in Ukraine and Syria, stoking tensions with the West. As commander-in-chief, he has also at times donned military uniform himself and been filmed at the controls of a strategic bomber and on the conning tower of a submarine in photo opportunities designed to boost his man of action image. Weapons displayed on Red Square included Russia's Yars mobile intercontinental nuclear missile launcher and its advanced S-400 air defence missile system, which Moscow has deployed in Syria to protect its forces. But this year's parade was notable for the lack of major show-stopping new weapons or pieces of military hardware. Some politicians in former Soviet republics and satellite states regard the parade as crude sabre-rattling by a resurgent Russia they say poses a threat to Europe's security. Russia dismisses such allegations as nonsense. Mumbai A lady patient who said she contracted the incurable Hepatitis C virus following a surgery at a reputed hospital in Mumbai was granted Rs 5.66 lakh compensation by the South Mumbai District Consumer Disputes Redressal Forum that includes reimbursement of hospital and litigation charges. The lady, 52-years old in 2007 and healthy, was recommended surgery for hysterectomy by the doctors she consulted after she underwent one month of heavy bleeding. Upon admission at Bombay Hospital, her body and blood tests showed normal parameters before the surgery. The surgery was conducted on 24 July 2007 "only after receiving a clean chit from the Hospital that she had none of the viruses such as Hepatitis B, C or E or HIV." However, within one month the lady, "found her skin was itching, her eyes were turning yellow, her urine had turned dark, her stools had become pale and she started suffering from influenza, aching joints and muscles, extreme tiredness, fever, lack of appetite and pain in the stomach, the Redressal Forum said in its order. She was asked by her family physician Dr Prashant T Mane to get complete blood count, liver function tests, routine urine analysis, Australia Antigen and a few other tests. Since these tests didnt reveal any abnormality, the patient consulted Dr Amarapurkar at Bombay Hospital, who suggested additional tests, which tested positive HCV (i.e., virus of Hepatitis). The presence of Hepatitis C in her body would bring down her immunity level and make her prone to contracting all kinds of dangerous diseases, including contagious diseases. The patient suspected she may have contracted Hepatitis C virus from the hospital since all her tests showed normal status when she came for the surgery. She was not tested by the hospital for Hepatitis C before the operation. Presence of Hepatitis C would dramatically alter her normal life, interaction with close family members, including her husband, need separate common household items including towels, and require her to take periodic medical check-ups, and regular medicines for the rest of her life. This could also lower her immunity to several other diseases. The hospital, doctors and other technicians "have caused grave, irreversible and irreparable physical, emotional, psychological, financial and moral harm to her, the complainant said in her application to the Forum. The hospital and other defendants in turn said the lady was suffering "heavy vaginal bleeding for over a period of one month and the root cause of which was presence of intra uterus tumours called fibroids which were pressing the inner lining of the uterus and causing extensive life threatening loss of blood. The infection may have been contracted after the surgery, the hospital and doctors said in their reply. They explained certain situations in which Hepatitis C virus can be contaminated in the body of the patient. Those situations include: a. Injecting narcotic drugs b. Use of tattoos c. Body piercing d. Transfusion of infected blood e. Sexual intercourse with infected person f. Use of unsterile needles and syringes g. Dental treatment h. Unsterile medical treatment i. Nasal inhalation of cocaine j. Manicure/pedicure k. At beauty saloon l. endoscopy m. French kiss n. Any form of body fluid exchange. The lady patient, who has three healthy and grown up children aged 22, 28 and 32 years, and is herself employed for 34 years at a five-star hotel, denied the possibility of her contracting the virus from any other avenue. Her lawyers asked for Rs19.71 lakh as compensation as cost of damages, compensation, mental agony. The jurisdiction of the Forum is to grant up to Rs20 lakh. The Forum also pointed out that "the surgery can be performed for removing the uterus from the abdomen of the patient or from the vaginal cavity. In the present case, the said surgery is performed by giving her general anaesthesia & through her vaginal cavity and not from the abdomen, hence the possibility of use of unsterilised equipment or machinery or needles at the time of surgery cannot be fully ignored. The Forum granted her compensation of Rs5 lakh as token compensation for the grave irreversible and irreparable mental agony, life-long restrictions, financial losses, loss of reputation in society and risk to the family members of the patient. It also permitted reimbursement of Rs56,000 spent on the hospital expenses and Rs10,000 as litigation costs by a consumer court. The order was read on 24 April, 2019 in Mumbai. The Indian mutual fund (MF) industry manages over Rs10.40 lakh crore of equity assets across several scheme categories, including active and passively managed schemes. There has been a rapid growth in passive investments in the past couple of years. Are investors correct in shifting to passive schemes? Lets look at the evidence, so far. Active schemes are supervised by dedicated fund managers... We can withstand a global turndown, Treasurer Josh Frydenberg said. Of course, this is exactly what any politician would say. Its us that do everything good. In fact, we would have done more if it wasnt for those guys on the other side! Thats what it boils down to at the end of the day. Personal character attacks. Finding inconsistences within the other sides policies without coming up with any solid plan of your own. This is what wins over the emotional public. Give them an emotional issue or idea to get behind and watch that voter base grow. More important than Aussie politics, for stock market investors at least, is whats happening between Trump and Xi. As trade talks intensify, the mainstream paints a picture of two giants slogging it out. In reality, China is taking most of the hits. And they look to be trying last-ditch efforts to stay in the fight Hardly a fair fight This was something I talked about earlier this week. China was taking too long, arguing over points they had already agreed to. So, Trump decided to snap his fingers and announce a double in tariffs on Chinese goods. You then saw economists cry out, telling the people how dumb Trump is for increasing costs to American consumers. Former assistant professor of economics, Karl Smith wrote: When it comes to trade with China, it often seems that Donald Trump is his own worst enemy. Unilaterally raising tariffs, as Trump is threatening, is akin to punishing US consumers for Chinas misbehaviour. Most economists view lower tariffs as a win for the US economy, even if China doesnt reciprocate. Of course, they say, the world economy would be even stronger if tariffs were lowered across the board. Then you read something like the following from the Australian Financial Review: Both Trump and his Chinese counterpart, Xi Jinping, believe they have more bargaining power than they did six months ago. Its almost as if the mainstream thinks both Trump and Xi are on level ground. Yet as I explained yesterday, thats simply not the case. The US has something China wants. Two things actually. Consumer demand and American dollars. To see why, you can go read this article here. China doesnt have a whole lot the US cant get from somewhere else. There are plenty of cheap manufacturers in Asia. Maybe they dont have the volume China does. But its not all that hard for US businesses to purchase cheap manufactured goods from Vietnam or Thailand. Its why, as Trump continues to starve China of dollars, the Middle Kingdom might become more desperate. Weve already seen them lower required reverse ratios for small lenders. This effectively lets them create more money with the current reserve assets they have. China has also started a round of tax cuts, which might provide a short-term economic boost. But it still doesnt solve the main problem. China needs dollars and Trump knows it. Thats why, in my opinion, China will either cave to Americas terms, or they will have to radically change how they do things. Even if China does agree to all terms and this whole trade war saga goes away, therell likely still be problems to solve. One of those is a global structural problem we really saw the effects of in the 2008 financial meltdown Free investor report reveals the highest potential growth sectors for 2019 and beyond. Download your free copy here to get all the details! Whats Finland and Portugal got to do with this? Why did a country like Finland or Portugal enter recessions when US subprime went down the tubes? Were these countries linked to US mortgages? Maybe their financial sectors bought some of the subprime crap. Yet I doubt it was so widespread it could launch both economies into negative growth. So what was it? Well, both are manufacturing countries. And as manufacturers, they compete along with many other countries to sell goods to those nations eating up all the trade deficits. One of those countries happens to be the US. They eat up a lot of trade surpluses. And with the Americans in turmoil, countries like Finland and Portugal were hit hard by lagging demand. The problem is not just downturns, though. Things have been getting worse for manufactures as time has gone by. Were all becoming more efficient at producing goods. Those efficiency gains, whether its robotics or automation, soon spread throughout the industry. Now this might not be a problem if demand for manufactured goods was infinite. But the thing is, its not. Just like the amount of food you consume, there are limits to the amount of goods people will buy. This spells trouble for the manufacturers of this world. If efficiency gains are ratcheting up by 4% each year and global demand for manufactured goods is only 2%, then theres going to be a whole lot of losers in that industry. Think of it this way Does any nation stake their fortune on farming today? Almost no one does. And thats because farming productivity has been widely dispersed through the industry. And because everyone is competitively similar, profits margins get cut to the bone. I expect the same will happen to manufacturing. Its already a dying industry. But profits might dip even further as efficiency improves and those gains are widely spread among nations. What this means for you As an investor, this is probably something you want to keep in mind. With so many manufacturers out there, most of Asia and a whole lot of Europe, global growth might be terrible for some time to come. Maybe well see a huge restructure to one of these nations. Maybe it will be China who takes the lead, transitioning from manufacturing to services. Such a transition might only happen in drastic times. And while that might spook financial markets, it will be one of the best times to put your savings to work. Who knows, maybe Trumps tariffs will push China to do it. Think we could sustain that kind of downturn, Frydenberg? Your friend, Harje Ronngard, Editor, Money Morning In the Salem Witch Trials, the accused were innocent. In the Pendle Witch Trials, the accused parties confessed because they believed they were witches. Big difference. Once upon a time, dear reader, there was a pregnant woman who was selfish, her husband who was cowardly, and a witch who was the most reasonable person in the fairytale The modern image of the witch is threefold: Possibly green-faced hags with ratty grey hair, ragged cloaks and pointy hats Button-nosed, sexy little temptresses in slinky black dresses Desperate, frightened peasant women, falsely accused and likely to die for being a widow, a beggar, religious dissident or just in the wrong place at the wrong time. And in fairy tales? Its always the first one. Good witches are generally referred to as enchantresses, fairies anything but the horrible nasty word witch. The Pendle Witch Trials, and why asking were they witches? is the wrong question to ask. When it comes to the Pendle Witch Trials, shoving the accused parties into any of the three slots above doesnt work. This is why. In the village of Pendle, in the north of England, there were women who were none of those things. Historians will try and force them all into the third category, and there were those amongst the accused Pendle Witches who were unfortunate and were killed for circumstances beyond their control. But, unlike the famous American Salem Witch Trials at the other end of the 17th century, some of the accused confessed not through torture or a belief that it might save their lives but because they considered themselves to be witches. I shall begin the story again. Are you sitting comfortably? Once upon a time, there was a beggar girl called Alison Device. As she walked along a road near the forests of Pendle, and her family home of Malkin Tower, she met a peddler. History disagrees precisely what happened next; either Alison begged the peddler to give her some pins or she asked to buy a few, and he was unwilling to stop and open his pack for such a small transaction. Either way, he refused and continued along the road. Alison, granddaughter of feared local witch Demdike (Elizabeth Southern), uttered a curse she had been taught and went on her way. Except this time, the curse worked. The Peddler, John Law, fell down. He, though seriously ill, managed to make his way to a nearby inn where the modern reader realises he had clearly suffered a stroke, but the 17th century mind saw only maleficia witchcraft. Alison, now utterly convinced of her own power, begged forgiveness of the law. Initially the man himself did not want to press charges. History doesnt record if that is because he was being charitable to a young beggar who would likely be killed for something she didnt intend to do, or if it was because he was afraid she might curse him further. Later, in the ensuing witch trials, when accusations had flown around, old scores had been dragged up, some Catholic recusants had somehow got involved and a sheep was stolen, a judge asked Alison if she might be able to use her power to restore Law to health. Alison wept bitterly and claimed that it wasnt in her power to do so. She said that her grandmother Demdike would have had the power but by that time the old woman had sadly died in jail. History judges those killed in the Salem witch trials fairly: Everyone understands that the accused were all innocent of the fantastical charges laid against them. In Pendle, deep in the dark forests where families survived by begging, stealing and selling charms in direct competition with each other, and in Lancaster, in the foreboding castle where the court proceedings were heard, history has a lot to contend with. The question should not be were Alison Device, her family and the others accused with them, witches? but what was a witch? Ignoring the pacts with the devil, causing death or disease through the making and breaking of images, or the other things that were held up in courts as evidence of witchcraft what did those who believe they were witches do? Centuries earlier, before Henry VIII of England had to mess up the entire countrys religious beliefs to get his own way, the witch known also as a cunning woman was everything in village life. She did not have a particularly important role in politics, wasnt frequently named in documents that have survived to this date, and wasnt even acknowledged as important by the men in the village unless they needed her. But think of everything we need to make society function today. If it wasnt work you could be glorified for, it was the cunning womans work. The unsung work of a witch Midwives, and midwifery. These were women who, with generations of experience passed down (usually orally and committed to memory), could help the women of the village give birth as safely as possible. Exact data from the period is very hard to find, but in later centuries one can compare the traditional midwife with her clean hands, knowledge of herbs and understanding of a womans body with the bloodstained surgeon, generally educated in the default male anatomy with the perceived knowledge naturally they would do a better job than women, since womens brains were so inferior. Statistically, theres a lot of evidence to suggest that their cunning women ancestors would have had similar duties and skills to typical midwives. General health care. Your friendly neighbourhood witch was there for you when it came to health. Some of their suggestions were a bit odd, some were based on sound medical evidence, and some outright wouldnt work, but if your friendly local witch was the only option, you took it with both hands. Social worker. Cunning women were sometimes called upon to settle family disputes. Sometimes, as in the Pendle Witches case, they were the centre of these disputes, but no-one is perfect. Though distorted, doesnt Rapunzel show an early example of someone thinking it would be a good idea to take babies away from families whod commit crimes for luxury gains and sell their child for a head of lettuce? Dating apps. No, seriously. The cunning womans use of love potions, fortune telling methods and generally knowing most people in the nearby villages meant that if you were looking for love, she would probably be able to make a suggestion. Emergency get-into-heaven Cards. Alright, not quite the same as the indulgences and absolution you could buy from the Catholic church. But cunning women were frequently the person called to births or early childhood illness, and Catholicism allowed anyone to baptise dying babies and administer the sacraments. This was particularly important when plague or other forms of epidemic sickness made priests difficult to get hold of. Fair access to services. Where cunning women, or their equivalent cunning men, do appear in records, it seems to suggest that they charged the peasants and farmers much less than the aristocracy when their services were sought. So, after all that.. what is a witch? May 09, 2019 Whom Not To Trust - U.S. Government Indicts Another Intercept Source Another source that provided government secrets to The Intercept has been uncovered and indicted by the U.S. government. The Intercept was created to privatize the National Security Agency documents leaked by NSA contractor Edward Snowden. The online magazine is financed by Pierre Omidyar, the founder of Ebay, who's is known for many shady connection to Obama administration and for promoting various regime change efforts. In June 2017 we wrote about the first case in which an Intercept source got burned: Yesterday The Intercept published a leaked five page NSA analysis about alleged Russian interference in the 2016 U.S. elections. Its reporting outed the leaker of the NSA documents. That person, R.L. Winner, has now been arrested and is likely to be jailed for years if not for the rest of her life. FBI search (pdf) and arrest warrant (pdf) applications unveil irresponsible behavior by the Intercept's reporters and editors which neglected all operational security trade-craft that might have prevented the revealing of the source. It leaves one scratching one's head if this was intentional or just sheer incompetence. Either way - the incident confirms what skeptics had long determined: The Intercept is not a trustworthy outlet for leaking state secrets of public interests. Our mistrust towards The Intercept get reinforced by the arrest of another of The Intercept's sources. Today the Justice Department arrested and charged a former U.S. Airforce soldier, Daniel Everette Hale, 31, of Nashville, Tennessee, who had worked at the National Security Agency (NSA), as an intelligence analyst in Afghanistan, and at the National Geospatial Intelligence Agency (NGIA). The Justice Department alleges that Hale leaked several secret and top secret powerpoint presentations and papers to an online outlet: According to allegations in the indictment, beginning in April 2013, while enlisted in the U.S. Air Force and assigned to the NSA, Hale began communicating with a reporter. Hale met with the reporter in person on multiple occasions, and, at times, communicated with the reporter via an encrypted messaging platform. Then, in February 2014, while working as a cleared defense contractor at NGA, Hale printed six classified documents unrelated to his work at NGA and soon after exchanged a series of messages with the reporter. Each of the six documents printed were later published by the reporters news outlet. According to allegations in the indictment, while employed as a cleared defense contractor for NGA, Hale printed from his Top Secret computer 36 documents, including 23 documents unrelated to his work at NGA. Of the 23 documents unrelated to his work at NGA, Hale provided at least 17 to the reporter and/or the reporters online news outlet, which published the documents in whole or in part. Eleven of the published documents were classified as Top Secret or Secret and marked as such. The indictment (pdf), filed on March 7 under seal, includes a list of the meetings and communications that Hale had with the reporter. The first one took place during the reporter's book tour in April 2013 in Washington DC. During that time frame Jeremy Scahill, one of the Intercept's founding editors, was on a national book tour promoting his book about Blackwater. Several stories written by Scalhill based on secret documents were published in the time frames given in the indictment. The Associated Press notes of the case: Court papers do not identify by name the reporter who allegedly received the leaks, but details in the indictment make clear that Jeremy Scahill, a founding editor of The Intercept, is the reporter who received the leaks. The indictment states that many of the classified documents were disclosed in an October 2015 news article. On October 15, 2015, Scahill published an article on The Intercept titled "The Assassination Complex" that relies on "a cache of secret slides that provides a window into the inner workings of the U.S. military's kill/capture operations at a key time in the evolution of the drone wars." There are more documents that Scahill published about that fit the time frame and the descriptions in the indictment. In July 23 2014 The Intercept published Blacklisted - The Secret Government Rulebook For Labeling You a Terrorist The Obama administration has quietly approved a substantial expansion of the terrorist watchlist system, authorizing a secret process that requires neither concrete facts nor irrefutable evidence to designate an American or foreigner as a terrorist, according to a key government document obtained by The Intercept. The piece was written by Jeremy Scahill and Ryan Devereaux. In August 2014 The Intercept published the Watch Commander - Barack Obamas Secret Terrorist-Tracking System, by the Numbers written by the same reporters: Nearly half of the people on the U.S. governments widely shared database of terrorist suspects are not connected to any known terrorist group, according to classified government documents obtained by The Intercept. On April 17 2015 Scahill wrote a story about the use of a U.S. military base in Germany for drone strikes. TOP-SECRET U.S. intelligence document obtained by The Intercept confirms that the sprawling U.S. military base in Ramstein, Germany serves as the high-tech heart of Americas drone program. ... The top-secret slide deck, dated July 2012, provides the most detailed blueprint seen to date of the technical architecture used to conduct strikes with Predator and Reaper drones. All the above stories, and more, seem to fit to the descriptions in the indictment of the items Hale printed or copied while he worked for U.S. agencies. The indictment says that documents Hale obtained and handed to a reporter were later published in a book by the same writer. In 2016 Scahill coauthored the book The Assassination Complex : Inside the Government's Secret Drone Warfare Program The indictment does not say how the government found out that Hale provided the documents to Scahill. But the two seem to have at times communicated openly via phone, email and through text messages. That should have been a no-no. The government recovered at least parts of those communications. Hale attended several of Scahill's book tour events. Beyond that Hale openly communicated with 'a confident' about his contacts with Scahill. Later Scahill and Hale used the encrypted chat tool Jabber. Hale also used Tails, a software package The Intercept recommends for leaking documents to it. It is quite possible that the Justice Department will also file charges against Jeremy Scahill. The first contacts with Hale and the first leaks by Hale were in the first half of 2013, when Hale was still enlisted and worked at the NSA. In July Hale emailed a resume to Scahill which he wanted to use to find a job with a defense contractor who leases people with security clearances to other U.S. agencies. They seem to have discussed the resume by phone. Hale was later hired by such a contractor and worked at the NGIA. There he copied the secret and top secret documents and presentations that seem to be the objects of Scahill's later reporting. That Scahill discussed Hale's resume with him could be construed as active help to gain access to secrets that would then be leaked to The Intercept. The U.S. currently seeks the extradition of Julian Assange from Britain under the allegation that Assange actively helped Chelsea Manning to escape scrutiny by using her access to secret documents under a different account than her own. Assange is the editor of Wikileaks. While it is not known how the government found out that Hale leaked the documents in questions, its knowledge of phone and text contacts show that all open communication with any Intercept reporter will likely be intercepted by the relevant agencies. It is laudable that Hale leaked the secret information about Obama's drone wars and assassination campaigns. It is laudable that The Intercept published those stories. But that its founder made lots of money from government contracts while The Intercept reported on less than 5% of the Snowden papers and recently shut down access to the them leaves a very bad taste. That R.L. Winner went to jail because an Intercept reporter, who was known to not be trustworthy, 'mishandled' the leak is terrible. That a second source is now under arrest after lengthy open communication with another Intercept writer only reinforces our recommendation: Do not trust The Intercept. Posted by b on May 9, 2019 at 18:42 UTC | Permalink Comments The Carolina Diner in Morganton will open its doors from noon to 4 p.m. Saturday for a free Christmas dinner for anyone who needs a place to go for the holiday: Russ Kinnel: Hi, I'm Russ Kinnel, looking forward to this week's investment conference here in Chicago. There are three panels I'm particularly looking forward to. One of them is a bond panel featuring Michael Collins of Prudential, Laird Landmann of MetWest, and Sonali Pier of PIMCO. What I'm interested in there is just the economy has been so strong--is it time for the Fed to raise rates? There seems to be a lot of questions around that, and I'd love to hear that macro perspective from the bond managers. Another one I'm interested in is a value discussion featuring David Giroux and Jean Hynes of Wellington on Friday. Value has really been left out for a number of years. Is it time for value to come back, or do managers need to be more flexible about their approach to value? Then, finally, we have an emerging-markets panel on Thursday that has Rajiv Jain, former Manager of the Year, and Richard Sneller of Baillie Gifford. Emerging markets have really lagged in this rally, but generally the idea is emerging markets are supposed to outperform in rallies. I'm curious: Does that mean they're really a good buy, or did emerging markets just miss their chance and it's not that attractive? Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 9) Police arrested a town mayor in Mindanao Thursday after firearms, explosives and illegal drugs were seized in his house. Mayor Roberto M. Luna. Jr. of Lingig, Surigao del Sur was found to have a Colt caliber .45 pistol, a magazine loaded with caliber .9mm ammunition, magazines of caliber .45 pistol, and a grenade at his home in Barangay Poblacion around 3:20 a.m. Also found were dried leaves and stalks of marijuana. The regional police office also found 2 million in cash supposedly intended for vote-buying. "The 100 bills were placed in white envelopes with sample ballots, said PBGen. Gilberto DC, CARAGA regional director. Luna is a high-value target in the Duterte administration's narco list. The National Police Commission in CARAGA earlier released its resolution withdrawing Lunas deputation over the police. The mayor will face charges for possession of illegal drugs, illegal possession of explosives, and violations under the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act. The threat of a trade war with the United States roiled Chinas equity markets in 2018, with about a 30% peak-to-trough decline in the Shanghai Composite. Earlier in 2019, optimism about a deal between the countries led Chinese equities to recover almost all of their losses, but the most recent tensions have diminished those gains. Deal or no deal, we think its no time to get complacent about the long-term threat of conflict between the U.S. and China and the economic impact this could have on the latter. Weve lowered our long-term (10-year average) China GDP growth forecast to 3.25% from 3.5% after incorporating the likelihood of scenarios of conflict between China and the U.S. In particular, we are concerned about the onset of a new cold war between the U.S. and China, a new era of great power conflict falling short of all-out war but in which the U.S. seeks to use all available economic means to curb Chinas continued rise, the most important of which is cutting off almost all its trade with China. A new cold war is not our base-case scenario, but we assess its probability at 16%. In this scenario, Chinas GDP growth takes a 1-percentage-point annual hit owing chiefly to lower trade, given the link between trade and economic growth. While Ontario Premier Doug Ford has been busy on the housing and transit filesamong the two most pressing issues in Torontohis efforts have left much to be desired. Writing in The Conversation, Daniel Del Gobbo, adjunct professor at Osgoode Hall Law School and SJD candidate at the University of Toronto, noted that while Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Toronto Mayor John Tory announced there would be $1.3 billion invested in the Toronto Community Housing Corporation, which will be spent on renovating around 58,000 units across 1,500 buildings, Ford has been conspicuously quiet about how much his government will pledge. Although Fords Progressive Conservatives have earmarked $1b to restore existing affordable housing, as well as to streamline applications, how much Toronto Community Housing, specifically, has coming its way is anyones guess. Home sales jumped, inventory dropped, average prices surged and there was a record for total volume for all homes sold inside Midland County in March, according to the Texas A&M Real Estate Center. The center reported dollar volume reached $93.9 million in March, which topped the previous high for any month -- $90.75 million in June 2018. Those are the only two months when total volume topped $90 million. By comparison, there was $75.430 million in total volume in Lubbock and $31.95 million in Ector County during the same month. Houston pipeline operator Kinder Morgan is asking a judge to throw out a lawsuit filed against a project to move natural gas from the Permian Basin of West Texas to the Gulf Coast. Citing various technicalities, lawyers representing the pipeline company filed a motion on Tuesday asking a state district judge in Travis County to throw out the lawsuit against Kinder Morgan, a subsidiary overseeing the pipeline project and state regulators. Opponents of the Permian Highway Pipeline filed an April 22 lawsuit over the natural gas project's route. Lawyers for Kinder assert that the Texas Constitution and state law uphold the company's rights. "The lawsuit is a prime example of why eminent domain exists to allow important infrastructure projects that provide significant public benefits," Kinder Morgan said in a statement. Lawsuit: Railroad Commission, Kinder Morgan sued over pipeline route The 423-mile pipeline is designed to move 2 billion cubic feet of natural gas per day from the Permian Basin to the Katy Hub near Houston. That's roughly enough gas to fuel about 10 million U.S. homes per day. Kinder Morgan maintains that the project is in the public interest because it will generate nearly $1 billion of state and county revenues annually and unlock production bottlenecks in the Permian Basin allowing leaseholders to earn more than $2 billion per year in royalties. Members of the Texas Real Estate Advocacy and Defense Coalition, or TREAD, claim that the pipeline route unfairly runs through residential areas of Kyle, about 20 miles south of Austin, near the Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park in Stonewall and less than a mile away from Jacob's Well, a popular summertime swimming hole near Wimberley. Fuel Fix: Get daily energy news headlines in your inbox TREAD members contend that no alternative routes were presented to the public or considered and that no independent assessment of the project's costs and benefits was required by state regulators. "Kinder Morgan's motion claims that it is allowed to privately choose land to be taken without any public or government oversight," the coalition stated. "The lawsuit asserts that their interpretation of the Texas constitution is wrong and we look forward to submitting briefs to the Court on the merits of the case." Midland-Odessa and the Permian Basin are thriving as the heart of the nation's oil production surge. But the Environmental Integrity Project claims that the health of the region's residents is being impacted by that growth. In its just-released report, "Sour Winds in West Texas," EIP says the area is seeing unhealthy emissions of sulfur dioxide and hydrogen sulfide from the rising number of oil and gas facilities and flaring of natural gas. "We've shown beyond a doubt there is a serious, serious air pollution problem in the Permian Basin that's not being addressed," Ilan Levin, Texas director of the EIP and lead author of the report, said in a phone interview. He said the report used the same model that regulators use to determine the impacts of the oil and gas industry's self-reported emissions from flaring, then modeled those emissions alongside the weather conditions at the time and hired an atmospheric scientist to run an air dispersion model. Todd Staples, president of the Texas Oil & Gas Association, told the Reporter-Telegram by email, "The report's claims are based on modeling which used reported emissions data to estimate concentrations across a wide region, a complex method that inherently overestimates concentration. Sound science and facts demonstrate that at the same time that growth in energy production has occurred in the Permian Basin, the U.S. has led the world in emission reductions. The oil and natural gas industry is the leading investor in zero- and low-carbon technology, investing billions in advanced technologies that are protecting and improving our environment. The industry's success has elevated the United States to become the world's top oil and natural gas producer and is providing undeniable benefits to Texas in the form of abundant, reliable and affordable energy, hundreds of thousands of good-paying jobs, and billions of dollars in state and local tax revenues. And all of these have occurred simultaneously due to industry's commitment to innovative solutions. "It is broadly accepted that when there is a lack of infrastructure, safety protocols demand natural gas be flared in many instances. The Texas oil and natural gas industry is working overtime to build the necessary infrastructure to catch up with the phenomenal production that is generating billions of dollars in state revenues, which fund our schools, roads and first responders," Staples continued. The study examined the impact of unauthorized sulfur dioxide emissions in and around Ector County. About 35 percent of Ector County experienced sulfur dioxide pollution in excess of the level set by the Environmental Protection Agency as the National Ambient Air Quality Standard between 2014 and 2017, according to an analysis. Levin noted that while the Houston region has more than 60 active air quality-monitoring stations, the Permian Basin has three, and only one of those can monitor for sulfur dioxide. That station is located in Big Spring and data from this monitor exceeded national air quality standards for sulfur dioxide at least 30 times between December 2016 and April 2019. EIP identified Occidental Permian as the company with the most emissions in 2017, the most recent data available. Occidental owns 74 facilities, that according to the report, released 10.6 million pounds of sulfur dioxide during 500 incidents. This information was from a state database of emissions during accidental or "upset" incidents, including maintenance and shutdowns. Occidental's Sealy Smith Clearfork No. 7 facility in Ward County had the most unauthorized air pollution in 2017, releasing 6.8 million pounds of sulfur dioxide in 10 incidents. "In reviewing EIP's repot, we have determined that some of the analytical data used in the calculations were inaccurate and the values were significantly less than reported. In fact, the total Sealy Smith 7 emissions are actually more than 90 percent lower," Merritt Talbott, Permian Basin communications manager with Occidental, told the Reporter-Telegram by email. "We appreciate this information and will file revised reports to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality," she said. "Occidental actively engages in programs to control, monitor and minimize emissions across our operations. We take emissions control seriously and will continue to address these issues in a safe and responsible manner." Grant Swartzwelder, president of OTA Compression/Kimark Systems, told the Reporter-Telegram that while the focus has been on methane emissions, "with the methane are some very harmful and dangerous components. While methane hurts the environment, sulfur dioxide, hydrogen sulfide and other parts of the gas stream can cause human harm. (But) it's very expensive to process these out to sell the gas, so it's easier and better to burn it." He explained that Permian Basin residents see more flares because they handle higher volumes than combustors and are cheaper, "but unfortunately don't have the same regulatory oversight. This results in them not being as efficient as combustors." Levin said the report listed six recommendations as the beginning of solutions to emissions issues. He said they fall into two categories. First, he called on the TCEQ and EPA to monitor air in the Permian Basin the way they monitor air in other parts of the state "It's clear there's a need in the Permian Basin," he said. "We call on the agencies to check the air quality in the Permian basin." A representative of the EPA referred questions about additional air monitoring systems to the TCEQ, which did not respond to requests for comment. Secondly, Levin called for stricter enforcement of pollution regulations by the agencies. "We are confident in the regulations. The rules on the books are pretty good," Levin said. "We're highlighting the lack of enforcement. The state and the EPA are not doing their jobs. They're not enforcing the laws on the books that are pretty good. It's like the speed limit. If you're driving to work, you can't break the speed limit, just so you won't be late for work. You need to follow the law. What the oil and gas companies are doing is violating the laws with impunity." He noted that Permian Basin production has doubled over the last 10 years. "The industry forecasts I'm seeing are for it to double again. This is not unexpected. This is the plan. And that's fine, but they still have to follow the law." Levin called on oil and gas companies to put the technological advances they've developed into mitigating flares. "They should put as much effort into mitigating flaring and following environmental law as they put into enhancing production," he said. There is a lot of equipment in place to mitigate the environmental impact of flaring, agreed Swartzwelder. The key is maintaining that equipment, he said. "A lot of people have equipment, but it's not operational or at a level that meets EPA standards," he told the Reporter-Telegram by telephone. "Any piece of equipment needs preventative maintenance, to be taken care of so it can do its job." He added that his company is seeing a lot of safety issues related to flares, and that goes back to maintenance of the equipment. "It also speaks to the facilities and making sure they're laid out correctly," he said. Until takeaway capacity is in place to move much more of the natural gas that is being produced in association with Permian Basin crude, and/or until natural gas prices rise, Swartzwelder said it will continue to be seen as a secondary fuel and operators will continue to find it cheaper to flare. West Texans deserve the same environmental protection as the rest of the state, concluded Levin. "There's no reason why West Texans should suffer from health problems because the regulators aren't doing their jobs," he said. A California mother has filed a lawsuit against Etsy after her 18-month-old son was strangled by an item bought on the retail website. Deacon Morin was found unresponsive after being placed down for a nap Oct. 5 at Marriott Family Child Care in Fontana. He was rushed to a hospital, where he died five days later. Investigators say the boy was wearing a beaded necklace around his neck when he took the nap. CBS Los Angeles reports the necklace tightened and did not release, causing Deacon to suffocate. The teething necklace was given to his mother, Danielle Morin, as a gift by a close friend who purchased it on Etsy, a website that specializes in handmade items. According to the online receipt, the necklace is meant to help alleviate pain for teething babies and is supposed to have a releasing safety clasp that automatically releases when pulled on. "Baby necklaces, if you use a baby necklace should have a releasing safety clasp so if there's any pulling on it, it releases. This one that was purchased on Etsy had a screw on clasp that could not be released. And so when baby Deacon was hung up on something, it didn't release and caused him to suffocate," Morins attorney, John Carpenter, said. Carpenter said the Etsy is legally responsible for Deacons death and has filed a lawsuit against the website in addition to the Lithuanian company that provided the necklace. The terms of use listed on Etsys website state, in part, the items in our marketplaces are produced, listed, and sold directly by independent sellers so Etsy cannot and does not make any warranties about their quality, safety, or even their legality. Any legal claim related to an item you purchase must be brought directly against the seller of the item. You release Etsy from any claims related to items sold through our services. Carpenter says that Morin did not agree to these legal disclosures because she received the necklace as a gift. "I want parents to know there is no more Toys R Us and people need to go online to buy products and these products are dangerous and these products aren't always safe. No parent should have to grieve a child. No parent should have to bury their child," Morin said. A statement from an Etsy spokesperson reads: Deacons death was a great tragedy and our hearts are with his mother and family. While we understand the desire to take action, Etsy is a platform and did not make or directly sell this item. We believe the allegations should be directed at the criminally-negligent daycare providers or, if appropriate, the seller of the necklace. The seller has not had any products on our website since last year and we do not represent the seller in any way. At the end of an eight-day trial, prosecutors were able to convince jurors that the boyfriend of a college student from Fort Worth became her killer. A Caldwell County jury convicted the boyfriend, Robert Fabian, of murdering Zuzu Verk, 21, and tampering with physical evidence on Tuesday. On Wednesday that same jury sentenced Fabian to life in prison. Fabian also has been sentenced to 20 years on the tampering charge, according to television station KMID TV. He will be eligible for parole after 30 years. Verk was from far north Fort Worth, and she graduated from Keller Timber Creek High School. RELATED: Boyfriend accused of killing Alpine college student hears verdict Chris Estrada, a man reported to be Fabian's friend, told jurors that Fabian asked him to help move Verk's body. Fabian confessed to him that he choked his girlfriend after a dinner date in October 2016, according to reporting from KMID. Estrada testified that he declined to help move Verk's body, but also promised that he would not turn Fabian over to police. Roy Roman, who was in jail with the accused, testified that Fabian confessed to choking Verk after she threatened to tell people that he and Estrada were in a bisexual relationship, KMID reported. Verk's remains were found in plastic painter's drop cloths in a shallow grave near Alpine in far west Texas in February 2017, according to an arrest warrant affidavit. Verk was a student at Sul Ross State University in Alpine. The case was prosecuted by attorneys with the Texas Attorney General's Office and the trial was moved to Caldwell County after a change of venue motion was granted by the court. Estrada was also arrested in the case and charged with evidence tampering, a second-degree felony. Estrada pleaded no contest and will be sentenced after Fabian's trial. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. The case against a Springfield man charged in connection with robberies in Jacksonville earlier this year was dismissed in Morgan County court Wednesday because he is now facing federal charges. Christian E. Gaines, 21, of Springfield was indicted by a federal grand jury on five counts of interference with commerce by threat or violence in U.S. District Court April 2, according to court records. The charges stem from two robberies in Jacksonville on Feb. 24, as well as three robberies in Springfield in February and November. Gaines was arrested less than a day after robberies at Jiffi Stop and Papa Johns Pizza, both on West Morton Avenue. According to police, a man displayed a camping saw and demanded money from employees at both businesses. Gaines was located by police in the West Morton Avenue area within an hour of the Papa Johns robbery. He was facing armed robbery charges in Morgan County until Wednesdays pretrial conference when the case was dismissed. Gaines was charged March 1 in Sangamon County with three counts of armed robbery, according to court records. The federal indictment charges that Gaines took money from employees FastMart, Hucks and Famous Liquors in Springfield against their will by means of actual or threatened force, violence, and fear of injury and that he carried and brandished a dangerous weapon in the course of committing the robbery. The robberies at Hucks and Famous Liquors occurred on Feb. 17 and Feb. 22, respectively. The robbery at FastMart occurred on Nov. 10 of last year. Gaines made an initial appearance in federal court April 9 when he entered a not guilty plea and was appointed counsel, according to court records. He is being represented by federal public defender Joe Hartzler. A pretrial conference in the case is scheduled for May 17 and a jury trial set for June 4. I did not authorise payment for ... Borgeas on right sizes up a frog at the 45th Annual Capitol Frog Jump View Photos Sacramento, CA One frog took home the honor of the longest jump at the 45th Annual Capitol Frog Jump, which is just a warm up for the real competition in Calaveras County. Senator Andreas Borgeas (R-Fresno) and Assemblyman Frank Bigelow (R-ONeals) hosted the annual event on the East Lawn of the State Capitol on Wednesday to help promote the 91st anniversary of the Jumping Frog Jubilee at the Calaveras County Fair. The Jumping Frog Jubilee at the Calaveras County Fair is an exciting event that the community looks forward to every year. This years Capitol jump is no different. I am pleased to continue this tradition and highlight Calaveras County, said Senator Borgeas. It was a ribbiting competition with legislators, staffers and members of the media competing to see whose hopper would make the longest and shortest leap. Its an honor to continue celebrating a unique California tradition at the California State Capitol, said Assemblyman Bigelow. This 45-year tradition continues to bring together the Capitol community, while highlighting the rich history of the Mother Lode. The Borgeas office provided these results from the event: First place award went to Florencio Vaca, a legislative staffer from Assemblymember Luz Rivas office. His frog, Rana Del Rey, hopped to victory with an impressive 12 foot and 1 inch jump. Joe Michaels from KFBK crowned his frog prince, Christopher Ribbit, with an 8 foot and 9 inch hop to win the media competition. The shortest jump went to Assemblymember Jim Wood whose lethargic leaper measured 3 feet and 5 inches. The Calaveras County Fair and Jumping Frog Jubilee hops into action Thursday, May 16 19th. Click here for more fair details. Sonora, CA Last night was the band review and tonight its the Calcutta where teams compete for funds as we count down to this weekends Mother Lode Round-up. The Calcutta teams up cowboys and cowgirls to help rope in money to fund local student scholarships. Round-up Historian Ty Wivell details, It auctions off the calf scramble teams and the different competitors are walking around the room and people are bidding on them. Part of the proceeds goes to the annual Sheriffs Posse scholarship program. The Calcutta begins tonight (Thursday) at 6 p.m. at the Sheriffs Posse Grounds located on Rawhide Road in Jamestown. Admission is free. The main events kick off on Saturday morning with the big parade down Washington Street in downtown Sonora, followed by the Rodeo at the Mother Lode Fairgrounds. For a list of all the Mother Lode Round-up activities, click here or put in the keyword Roundup on the mymotherlode.com homepage. Sacramento, CA Governor Gavin Newsoms latest budget revision, which totals $213 billion, allocates a record amount for rainy day reserves, paying down pension debt with even more dollars for K-12 education, wildfires and homelessness. Released Thursday, his revised budget is up $4.5 billion from his first proposal in January, and maintains a $21.5 billion surplus, the states largest in at least 20 years. The next step is a series of negotiations with lawmakers, who must pass a budget by June 15 or lose pay. Newsom proposes $150 million more than he did in January for community grants to help the homeless along with $40 million for public colleges and universities that help homeless students. He also added $20 million to help renters facing eviction. His office described the budget one that prioritizes one-time investments to tackle the affordability crisis that California families face. The California Dream must be built on a strong fiscal foundation, Newsom stated. This budget fortifies Californias fiscal position while making long-sighted investments to increase affordability for California families. The affordability crisis families face in this state is very real, and thats why this budget tackles those challenges head-on by focusing on housing, health care, early childhood and higher education. Bracing For Bad Economic Times Now approaching its tenth year, the nations economic recovery, almost the longest on record, continues to generate increasing short-term revenues. Preparing for the next turndown, Newsoms revised budget allocates a total of $15 billion to build budgetary resiliency and pay down unfunded liabilities, $1.4 billion higher than the January proposal. His office reports that the states Rainy Day Fund should reach its constitutional cap of ten percent of General Fund Revenues in 2020-21, two years earlier than predicted in January. The May revision also seeks to eliminate state budgetary debts and reverse funding deferrals marking the first time in over a decade for all budgetary debts to be fully paid. Newsom wants to make California the first state to expand Medi-Cal coverage eligibility to young adults ages 19 through 25 regardless of immigration status and proposes first-in-the-nation subsidies for middle-income earners to be able to purchase health care on the Covered California exchanges. The budget also addresses the states housing crisis as the fundamental economic challenge facing families. In addition to the January budget allocation of a $1.75 billion General Fund to increase housing production, the May revision refocuses $500 million to remove barriers to building mixed-income housing. Investing In Ed, Fighting Homelessness, Wildfire Prevention The May revision maintains funding for two free years of community college tuition for first-time fulltime students as well as significant increases in funding for the California State University and University of California to prevent tuition increases in the budget year. The budget invests in K-12 schools by providing approximately $5,000 more per pupil, increasing the ongoing funding for Special Education, and making significant investments in the recruitment and retention of qualified teachers. The governor has now earmarked $1 billion to fight homelessness, of which $650 million will go to local governments for homelessness emergency aid. Newsoms January budget proposed $769 million in additional funding to support the states wildfire prevention, response and recovery investing in technology and resources to accelerate fuel reduction projects and launching the California for All Emergency Preparedness Campaign. The revised budget maintains these investments and adds an additional $39.9 million to enhance the states capacity to tackle more frequent and complex natural disasters. Among new additions are funding for increasing staffing and response capacity at the Office of Emergency Services and creating a permanent disaster response and recovery unit to tackle local housing issues through the Department of Housing and Community Development. Twenty-six law firms operating in the United Kingdom face disciplinary action for failing to ensure their clients did not use them to launder money. The Solicitors Regulation Authority, which oversees the profession, reviewed 59 law firms that were chosen as a representative sample. The authority, or SRA, wanted to see how well they were complying with anti-money laundering measures introduced in 2017. The regulator has now kicked off a larger review of 400 law firms, and issued a warning to companies, reminding them of their need to comply with tough rules aimed at combating money laundering. Paul Philip, chief executive of the SRA, said too many companies failed the test. "Those firms should be on notice that compliance is not optional," he told the Financial Times. "They need to improve swiftly. Where we have serious concerns that a firm could be enabling money laundering, we will take strong action." The SRA's clampdown on money laundering is part of the UK government's efforts to stem the flow through the financial and legal institutions of the City of London of what is believed to be billions of pounds of dirty money. The National Crime Agency singled out law firms and accountants as especially at risk of being exploited by criminals wanting to launder money and complained some had not been proactive enough in identifying and reporting suspicious activity. The government's crackdown includes the introduction of "unexplained wealth orders", which allow assets to be seized if the person controlling them cannot demonstrate they were acquired legitimately. The SRA said its review did not find evidence of actual money laundering but of companies putting themselves at risk of participating by failing to conduct adequate checks and by being remiss in their risk assessments and operating procedures. The SRA added that, separately, it is investigating 160 law firms in relation to money laundering and that, in the past five years, it has referred more than 60 cases related to money laundering to the Solicitors Disciplinary Tribunal, which subsequently barred more than 40 solicitors from practicing law in the UK. The latest SRA review found some companies were not suspicious enough when dealing with wealthy clients, and particularly those with senior roles in government or the business sector. The SRA's latest newsletter notes that counter terrorism police have connected money laundering with the funding of terrorism, people trafficking, and drug smuggling. "What we have found is a very mixed picture," the SRA, which regulates 7,000 law firms, noted in its newsletter. "There is excellent practice out there but, despite lots of information and support, we are seeing that firms are still struggling to get to grips with the 2017 regulations." earle@mail.chinadailyuk.com (China Daily 05/08/2019 page11) While San Antonio was deep in the throes of Fiesta revelry, a tiny but important chapter of the citys history closed. Viva Tacoland threw one last party of its own April 28 before locking the doors for good. Developer David Adelman, who co-owns the property at Grayson and Elmira streets with TV star Ricardo Chavira, said he is actively pursuing a new restaurant to take over the site. He declined to name the business pending the signing of a lease, but did indicate that its a multiunit Dallas-based chain with what he described as a cult following. Viva Tacoland owner Chris Erck did not reply to voicemails seeking comment about his plans. The future of the Viva Tacoland business is unclear. Adelman and Chavira sued Erck in July alleging a breach of contract and mismanagement of the business, and they seek damages of at least $200,000. On ExpressNews.com: Viva Tacoland operator sued by restaurant owners Tax records indicated Viva Tacoland was more than $100,000 behind in state and federal payroll taxes at the time the suit was filed. The last action taken in the case, which is still pending, was Ercks complete denial of all the charges. Records indicate the business currently owes more than $6,000 in property taxes to Bexar County, the city of San Antonio and the San Antonio Independent School District. Still, in the days leading up to its closure, Viva Tacolands Facebook page had several posts reading, Tacoland has outgrown this location and is moving forward to bigger and better things. Viva Tacoland was a contentious project from the moment Erck opened it in 2014. The restaurant, bar and music venue was a stylized reincarnation of the former Taco Land, which stood on the same property at the corner of Elmira and Grayson streets for four decades before closing in 2005. Taco Land is considered hallowed ground in San Antonios punk rock scene, that legacy codified in a 1999 documentary about the iconic dive bar. On ExpressNews.com: Opportunity rises from sticky situation at shuttered bar Juniper Tar At the center of the initial tension was what many saw as the gentrification of the punk rock shrine and the disrespect to the memory of the original Taco Lands owner, Ramiro Ram Ayala, who was murdered on the site during a 2005 robbery. Friends of Ayala and fans of the grungy venue decried the new Viva Tacolands use of the name, Ayalas likeness and some of his well-known catchphrases. Paul Stephen is a food and drink reporter and restaurant critic in the San Antonio and Bexar County area. Read him on our free site, mySA.com, and on our subscriber site, ExpressNews.com. | pstephen@express-news.net | Twitter: @pjbites | Instagram: @pjstephen The Houston area was deluged with rain Tuesday evening into the night, causing major flooding and power outages in areas such as Kingwood, Sugar Land and Cleveland. Areas in Kingwood saw up to 10 inches of rainfall, while 12 inches of rain was reported in areas in Sugar Land, leaving some roads impassable. Sugar Land spokesman Doug Adolph said the Tuesday night flooding was "worse than what we experienced in Harvey." More than 800 students and 100-plus teachers and administrators were stranded at Southside Elementary in Cleveland Tuesday night as a result of the flooding. A Texas state legislator unleashed a vilifying attack on a leading vaccine scientist Tuesday, accusing the doctor of "sorcery." It started with a report published Monday by the Texas Department of State Health Services that noted the state recorded a 14 percent rise in parents opting out of their children's vaccinations. It was a new statistic that alarmed Peter Hotez, professor and dean of the National School of Tropical Medicine at Baylor College of Medicine. "We have more than 64,000 kids not getting vaccinated in the state of Texas, and that doesn't account for the over 300,000 home-schooled kids," Hotez said during an interview with The Washington Post. Hotez took his concerns about the report to Twitter. And then he received an unexpected, seething personal attack from the Republican state legislator, Rep. Jonathan Stickland. "You are bought and paid for by the biggest special interest in politics," Stickland wrote. "Do our state a favor and mind your own business. Parental rights mean more to us than your self enriching 'science.' " In a tweeted response, Hotez, a pediatrician and vaccine scientist, noted to Stickland that he does not receive money from the vaccine industry; instead, his work focuses on "neglected disease vaccines for the world's poorest people." Stickland, who told The Washington Post he is "not anti-vaccination," tweeted his response to Hotez. "Make the case for your sorcery to consumers on your own dime," the Republican, who represents an area of suburban Fort Worth, snapped back Tuesday. "Quit using the heavy hand of government to make your business profitable through mandates and immunity." (Hotez is not part of a for-profit business, either as a dean at the Baylor College of Medicine or as an endowed chair at the nonprofit Texas Children's Hospital.) Although Stickland backs "parental rights," he is not discouraging vaccination, he told The Post on Wednesday. In fact, he said, "parents should take that responsibility seriously." "It comes down to whether the government should be mandating what's right for us," Strickland said. "I side with the individual." As The Post previously reported, parents in 17 states can opt out of vaccinating their children for personal or philosophical objections. All states have medical exemption laws, since some people with health issues cannot be vaccinated, and nearly all states grant religious exemptions. The anti-vaccination movement has grown from a fringe group to a dominant force nationwide, launching political action committees in several states, including Texas, lobbying state legislatures to disarm the vaccination infrastructure. From Jan. 1 through April 26, 704 cases of measles were reported, the highest number of cases reported since 1994. Outbreaks in close-knit communities accounted for 88 percent of all cases. Of 44 cases directly imported from other countries, 34 were U.S. residents traveling internationally; most were not vaccinated. Across the United States, more than 760 measles cases have been reported to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in 2019, the highest number of cases since 1994, according to the CDC. Fifteen of those cases came from Texas, Hotez said. Hotez called the fast-spreading disease a "dangerous situation" for "cities like Austin and Plano." "You have schools that are not safe for kids because so many kids are not getting vaccinated," Hotez said. When students in Warwick, Rhode Island, line up in the cafeteria next week, they'll have no shortage of lunch options. Do they want a chicken Parmesan melt? Hummus and fresh vegetables with tortilla crisps? Pizza? Sweet potato tater tots? A burger? Something from the deli bar? Or, in the popular all-day-breakfast category, pancakes with a cheese omelet and a side of bacon? But for some, making a decision won't be necessary. Starting on Monday, any student with unpaid lunch debt will be automatically given a sunflower seed butter and jelly sandwich instead of hot food, the city's school district announced on Sunday. Officials told the Providence Journal that the policy is necessary because the district is owed tens of thousands of dollars in lunch money, on top of contending with a budget deficit in the millions. But critics argue that since children have no control over their parents' finances, they shouldn't be penalized or potentially subjected to public humiliation because of their inability to pay. "I just don't think it's fair to hold the kids responsible," Heather Vale, who has two children attending a middle school in the district, told WLNE. "I think it's embarrassing to the kids because now everyone's going to know why these children are receiving the lunch that they are." While one local restaurant owner offered $4,000 to wipe out students' debts, her donation was rejected by school administrators. "Every idea I had got shut down," Angelica Penta told WJAR on Tuesday, barely concealing her frustration. The controversy is the latest episode to draw attention to what critics have labeled "lunch shaming." In schools nationwide, students have been branded with stamps, given unappealing cheese sandwiches, or even had their lunches thrown away after employees discovered that they were in arrears. In 2015, a Colorado cafeteria worker said that she had been fired for giving free food to hungry elementary school students, one of whom had broken down in tears. Similarly, in 2016, a lunch worker in Pennsylvania quit in protest after she was forced to refuse a hot meal to a student because he couldn't pay for it. "As a Christian, I have an issue with this," Stacy Koltiska, the Pennsylvania cafeteria worker who resigned in disgust, told The Washington Post at the time. "It's sinful and shameful is what it is." In Warwick, a suburb of Providence, close to 40 percent of students in pre-K through 12th grade qualified for free or reduced-price lunches in previous years. While such programs are intended to make sure that no children go hungry, students nationwide often end up incurring debt because their parents make just slightly too much to qualify for subsidized meals, experts told The Washington Post's Heather Long last year. In other cases, families fail to complete the necessary annual paperwork, which requires disclosing a considerable amount of personal information. Under the Trump administration, Long reported, some immigrant families have become fearful that asking for assistance could make it harder for them to achieve permanent residency status in the future. Harried parents may also simply forget to check on their kids' account balances. "Life gets in the way sometimes, and to penalize kids for, you know, one, two dollars to me is crazy," Julie Roberts, a Warwick parent, told WLNE. States including Virginia, California and New Mexico have banned "lunch shaming" in recent years, saying it unfairly stigmatizes students growing up in poverty. In Rhode Island, legislation requiring all students to receive the same hot lunch regardless of their financial circumstances is currently pending, according to the Journal. Other communities in the state have faced similar controversies. In December, officials in Cranston, which neighbors Warwick, were widely criticized for hiring a collection agency to track down families with outstanding school lunch debt. School administrators have said that such extreme measures are necessary due to budget shortfalls. Karen Bachus, the Warwick School Committee's chairwoman, told the Journal that the district is owed more than $40,000 in lunch money. Other officials told WJAR and the Warwick Post that the total was actually closer to $77,000. Due to a $4 million deficit, the district has already cut back on janitorial services and is looking at eliminating a popular mentoring program that now lacks funding, the Journal also reported. Nationwide, concerned parents and community members have taken matters into their own hands, fearing that students will be bullied when their classmates discover that they can't afford lunch or struggle to concentrate in class because they're hungry. In 2016, writer Ashley C. Ford inspired her Twitter followers to wipe out over $100,000 of outstanding lunch debt in Minneapolis schools. Even if a parent had the ability to pay off their balance but had neglected to do so, she told NBC's "Today" that was no reason their child should suffer. Earlier this month, the mother of Philando Castile, who was fatally shot by a police officer in 2016, gave a Minnesota high school $8,000 to settle roughly 100 students' lunch debts in honor of her son. Castile was a cafeteria worker who had been known for paying for students' lunches out of his own pocket if they were short on cash, and a crowdfunding campaign last year raised more than $178,000 to continue that legacy. Penta, the Rhode Island restaurant owner, tried to do the same thing. In March 2018, reports began circulating that a student in the neighboring town of West Warwick had his lunch thrown away by a cafeteria worker because he didn't have enough money in his account. Incensed, Penta started a fundraising drive and placed donation jars by the cash registers at the restaurants that she and her husband co-own in both Warwick and West Warwick. Administrators in West Warwick were happy to accept her donation of $4,000 and apply it to students' accounts, Penta told WPRI. That district, which is separate from Warwick Public Schools, also announced that students would no longer be denied a hot meal based on their ability to pay. In Warwick, things went very differently. On Sunday, Penta wrote on Facebook that she had met with district officials about paying off students' lunch debt on two separate occasions, and tried to offer them an additional $4,000. The second time, she said, she had left in tears after they refused to accept the check. As a result, the recent news that students who couldn't afford lunch would be getting a cold sandwich came as a blow to her. "To me, a sunbutter and jelly sandwich is lunch shaming, because you're basically telling all the other kids that you can't afford lunch and you don't have any lunch money," she told WPRI. In a statement to local media, Warwick officials said that they had to turn down the money because otherwise they would have had to decide which students it should benefit. "Each time these offers were made, Warwick Public Schools stated that the school department was not in the position to single out or identify specific students that should be selected for a reduction in their lunch debt while excluding others," the statement said. Administrators also noted they had suggested that Penta should create a program to decide which students would have their lunch debt erased, and review the applications herself. For now, that's more or less what she's doing. "If you need help reach out to me," she wrote on Facebook on Sunday, encouraging any Warwick parent who couldn't afford school meals to contact her. "There is no need for any child to be denied a hot lunch. We never know a child's or their family's situation, everyone struggles at some point. " In the meantime, Penta's neighbor has set up a GoFundMe page, hoping to wipe out all the debt held by students across the district and overcome administrators' objections. "If we can raise all the money, then they're not choosing kids," Penta told the Warwick Post. Recruiting Protesters Against Buttigieg and Biden - Video Released NEWS PROVIDED BY Voice of Resistance May 9, 2019 WASHINGTON, May 9, 2019 /Christian Newswire/ -- The Society for Truth and Justice has released a video interviewing six of the people who disrupted Pete Buttigieg in Dallas and in Iowa. The purpose of this video is to recruit men and women to disrupt Buttigieg and Biden events throughout the Democrat Primary season. Of the six men and women interviewed, four are African American. Also of note, 5 of them had never "preached" at a political event before. The following video is a special edition of Voice of Resistance, hosted by Randall Terry. Mr. Terry states: "Our mission is to be a witness for Eternal Truth, unborn babies, and the sacrament of marriage - between one man and one woman. Pete Buttigieg - by his speech and his very life - is an enemy of Truth, children, and marriage. "Likewise Joe Biden is the summation of Catholic treachery, and episcopal cowardice. He openly defies the Catholic Church regarding abortion and marriage, yet no Bishop (to date) has openly rebuked him for his foul agenda. "My team and I are actively recruiting men and women to confront these two men at their campaign stops, their churches, their home neighborhoods, and anyplace else we deem fit." Mr. Terry is available for interviews with Christian radio hosts, hoping to recruit more men and women for these fights. See video here: https://youtu.be/wuz1g_0BDmw SOURCE Voice of Resistance CONTACT: Randall Terry, 904-826-9989 Houston firefighters freed a driver from inside his car after it crashed with a big rig Thursday on the East Freeway. The driver had allegedly swerved across several lanes and pulled in front of an eastbound 18-wheeler around 12:50 p.m. on the East Freeway near Jensen, witnesses told firefighters on scene. The force of the collision pinned the driver inside his small passenger car. At least three people, including an infant, have been rushed to area hospitals after a rollover crash Thursday on the HOV lane of the Southwest Freeway. The crash was reported shortly before 10 a.m. in the HOV lane. METRO officials confirm three people were entrapped inside the vehicles involved but have since been extricated and hospitalized. A member of the Bandidos pleaded guilty Thursday to retaliating against an informant after he threatened to kill a witness who helped the feds convict the motorcycle clubs top two leaders. Albert DeLeon, 45, made the threat on Feb. 22 against the witness, whose name hasnt been released, at a local H-E-B store. He was a personal friend of the witness and felt horribly betrayed, and let off some steam when he confronted him at the grocery store, DeLeons lawyer, Jesse Rivera, said in an interview. Several informants most of them former members of the club from San Antonio who got reduced sentences for their crimes testified last year at the three-month trial of then-national president Jeffrey Fay Pike of Conroe and ex-national vice president John Xavier Portillo of San Antonio. Related: Bandidos boss put away for life The organizations leaders were sentenced to life in federal prison in September after being found guilty of crimes that included racketeering conspiracy, murder, extortion and drug dealing. The trial gave a vivid look inside the Bandidos secretive operations. It also delineated attacks the Bandidos plotted or carried out on rival bikers as the club flexed its muscle to protect what it considered its home turf the state of Texas. The trial also shed light on internal bickering that resulted in a split of the Bandidos in North America with its numerous chapters in Europe and Asia. Government witnesses testified that the leading dissidents were violently ousted on orders from Pike. Related: Bandidos former second in command gets two life terms DeLeons plea agreement said DeLeon made eye contact with the witness inside a local HEB. DeLeon called another Bandidos member to the scene. Together, they approached the witness outside the store as he was in his car, and DeLeon mouthed off, according to court records. The statements included: Get out, youre going to die today, Youre a (expletive) snitch, we saw you on the news, Its your fault everyone in the club went down, Im going to (expletive) kill you, and Jeff and John went down because of you. DeLeon also pulled a handgun from his waistband and cocked it to put a round in the chamber, but put the weapon away when other shoppers looked toward them, the plea deal said. The witness quickly left the scene. DeLeon faces up to 20 years in prison, without parole, when Biery sentences him in August. Two brothers have pleaded guilty to charges that they smuggled an underage Honduran teen over the Texas border to make her a bride for one of them. Jimmy Marin Reyes Almendarez, who originally is from Honduras but lived in South Carolina, pleaded guilty last week in Del Rio to a charge of conspiracy to transport a minor with intent to engage in criminal sexual activity. His brother, Siomar Reyes Almendarez, pleaded guilty in October to conspiracy to transport an undocumented immigrant. The brothers admitted they agreed to bring the 17-year-old girl from Honduras, whom Jimmy Reyes met on social media, illegally into the United States in October 2017 by falsely claiming she was Siomar Reyes daughter. Siomar and the teen were caught at the border near Eagle Pass with a group of migrants, and Siomar claimed he was her father. The scheme unraveled after an investigation by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations and Border Patrol. Agents interviewed Siomar Reyes at an immigration jail in Pearsall, and also were able to learn the teens true name. Siomar Reyes admitted the girl was not his daughter but said she was Jimmy Reyes girlfriend. During her interview, the girl revealed that she had yet to meet (Jimmy Reyes) in person, and had only met the defendant via the Internet through Facebook when she was 14 years old, Jimmy Reyes plea deal states. The girl also said she had communicated with Jimmy Reyes via WhatsApp and Facebook messenger, and added that he requested she send him nude selfies. She also said Jimmy Reyes made arrangements to smuggle her to the United States. After getting a search warrant for Jimmy Reyes Facebook account, agents found he discussed the smuggling venture with the teen, and there were sexually explicit messages between him and the girl, beginning when she was 14. The account also contains messages between (the girl) and defendant detailing the defendants intention to have a romantic relationship with (the teen) and the defendants intentions to marry and have children with the girl, Jimmy Reyes plea deal states. Under questioning, Jimmy Reyes admitted he paid $7,000 to smuggle his brother and the teen, and that if they crossed successfully, he was going to pick them up in San Antonio or make other arrangements to get them to South Carolina, the plea deal said. Guillermo Contreras covers federal courts in San Antonio and international legal issues. Read him on our free site, mySA.com, and on our subscriber site, ExpressNews.com. | gcontreras@express-news.net | Twitter: @gmaninfedland A Converse man was arrested Wednesday after he was caught allegedly recording up a woman's dress at a Walmart last month, according to court records. Eric Talamantes, 35, was charged with invasive visual recording. He was booked into the Bexar County Jail and bail was set at $10,000. According to his arrest affidavit, Talamantes pretended to peruse the beauty aisle of the Walmart in the 10700 block of Toepperwein Road at about 9:30 p.m. on April 22. A woman in the aisle, who had her daughter next to her, was facing the opposite direction and felt something touch her thigh. She turned around and found Talamantes recording with his cell phone up her dress, according to the affidavit. FIND OUT FIRST: Get San Antonio breaking news directly to your inbox The woman confronted the 35-year-old suspect, who said he had dropped his phone. He then left the store. The woman reported the incident to Walmart management, and police responded to the scene. Authorities recovered security camera footage that they say shows Talamantes purposefully record up the woman's skirt, not dropping his phone as he claimed. Investigators asked local business owners if they had ever seen the man depicted in the security camera footage, and one of them was able to identify him as an employee at a nearby McDonald's named "Eric," according to the affidavit. Police visited the McDonald's and identified the employee as Talamantes. Converse police were also able to identify him through body worn camera footage from a previous arrest. Additionally, the victim identified Talamantes in a photo line up. Officers arrested Talamantes on May 2 on outstanding warrants. At the time of his arrest, he was wearing the same clothes as the suspect recorded by Walmart security cameras, as reported in the affidavit. A warrant for his cell phone was secured, and officers found photos of three different women that "appeared to be taken at grocery stores as you can see shelved items." The photos were of the women's backsides. Text "NEWS" to 77453 for breaking news alerts from mySA.com Caleb Downs covers crime in San Antonio and Bexar County. Read him on our breaking news site, mySA.com, and on our subscriber site, ExpressNews.com | cdowns@mysa.com | @calebjdowns A man was partially ejected from his vehicle early Thursday during a rollover crash into a Northeast Side home, police said. The man was driving in the 12900 block of Samuel Prescott Street at about 3 a.m. when he lost control and rolled his vehicle. A local strip club can no longer sell alcohol due to allegations of human trafficking, according to state officials. Blush Show Club and Restaurant, 2525 N.E. Loop 410, was the subject of a joint investigation that found the club had allowed a 16-year-old to work as a dancer at the club, according to a Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission order canceling the club's liquor license. Authorities allege Eric Taylor, who they accuse of being her pimp, forced the girl to work at the club. Taylor was arrested in September after he was caught having sex with the victim outside of another strip club, the MGM Cabaret, which has since been closed. RELATED: Prostitution operation at San Antonio strip club leads to unrelated child sex crime arrest Taylor's arrest and the closure of the two strip clubs are the result of a months-long investigation that initiated after a shooting at the MGM Cabaret in August. Sheriff Javier Salazar said undercover deputies began investigating the club and discovered concerning evidence. "This turned into something much darker and a little more in depth than what we had expected," Salazar said. Deputies responded to 80 incidents at MGM between 2017 and the shooting in 2018, the sheriff said, and soon after the investigation began, deputies caught Taylor having sex with the victim outside the club. The 16-year-old then told authorities that Taylor had cooked up fake documents that landed her jobs at strip clubs. Detectives said Taylor forced the girl into sex and made as much as $1,000 a day off her. He is also accused of pimping out 10 other women, some of whom are runaways and juveniles. The investigation into Taylor's alleged crimes and MGM's various code violations then bloomed into a state-wide, multi-agency investigation into several suspects and strip clubs that may have been involved, Salazar said. Blush Show Club and Restaurant's license cancellation is a direct result of the investigation's fallout. Bentley Nettles, executive director of the TABC, said the club's canceled liquor license represents a message to clubs engaging in similar behavior. "You're not welcome here," he said. "We're going to find you, and we're going to put you out of business." Salazar said its likely that Taylor could face additional charges in connection to the investigation and that other suspects could be charged. Nettles said other clubs in cities across Texas are now under investigation. "This is not the finish line here," Salazar said. "This case is very much ongoing." Text "NEWS" to 77453 for breaking news alerts from mySA.com Caleb Downs covers crime in San Antonio and Bexar County. Read him on our breaking news site, mySA.com, and on our subscriber site, ExpressNews.com | cdowns@mysa.com | @calebjdowns Fraudsters planting credit card skimmers targeted San Antonio Valero gas stations exclusively in the month of April, police records showed. San Antonio police found 11 of the skimming devices in April, according to data obtained by mySA.com, and each one of them was found at a Valero gas station. ON EXPRESSNEWS.COM: Gas pumps the 'weak link' in threefold spike of credit card skimmers, police say Skimmers are devices that attach to a gas pump's or ATM's card-reading fixture. They gather customers' credit card information, which thieves can usually retrieve via a bluetooth connection and use to commit fraud. The devices are installed within the pay terminal and most are not visible to customers. Four devices were found at the gas station at 8303 McCullough. The station had the highest number of skimmers found in April. To avoid getting scammed, San Antonio police suggest motorists go to gas stations with updated pumps. that have chip-enabled card readers and can help keep sensitive credit card information encrypted. FIND OUT FIRST: Get San Antonio breaking news directly to your inbox This month's tally is significantly less than the previous month. In March, police found 25 credit card skimmers around town. In the first four months of 2019, police have found and confiscated 72 skimmers total in San Antonio. Click through the slideshow to see where the skimmers were found in April. Fares Sabawi covers crime in San Antonio and Bexar County. Read him on our breaking news site, mySA.com, and on our subscriber site, ExpressNews.com | fsabawi@mysa.com | @FaresInSA A man was hospitalized in critical condition late Wednesday after he was stabbed multiple times on the North Side, police said. Officers responded to the attack just after 11 p.m. at an apartment complex in the 2500 block of Clara Lane. Firefighters on Thursday freed a trapped driver who had smashed into a culvert on San Antonio's Northwest Side. The driver, a man in his 30s, was traveling westbound on the Interstate 10 access road between De Zavala and UTSA Boulevard at about 12:45 a.m. when he left the roadway, drove into a ditch and smashed into the culvert. FIND OUT FIRST: Get San Antonio breaking news directly to your inbox Authorities said the man wasn't able to escape from his vehicle, so first responders used a tow truck to free his vehicle from the culvert. They then pulled the man from the wreckage. Paramedics took him to University Hospital in critical condition. Traffic investigators are now looking into the crash. Text "NEWS" to 77453 for breaking news alerts from mySA.com Caleb Downs covers crime in San Antonio and Bexar County. Read him on our breaking news site, mySA.com, and on our subscriber site, ExpressNews.com | cdowns@mysa.com | @calebjdowns Growing up, I was always fascinated with the magician-psychic Uri Geller, who was famous for bending spoons with his supposed supernatural powers. How did he do that? I wondered. Ive been thinking about him lately as Ive watched an even more profound magic trick playing out in our politics. We have a president who can bend people. In so many cases, Donald Trump has been able to take people who came into his orbit and just bend them to his lying ways the way Uri Geller bent spoons. The latest is Attorney General William Barr, who, in only a few weeks, got bent into becoming Trumps personal lawyer. But Barr is in good company. Trump took Sens. Lindsey Graham and Ted Cruz, whod actually been bent against him, and bent them into fawning sycophants. Surely the answer lies partly in Trumps energy source: Fox News, Breitbart and Trumps own Twitter feed keep his base in a state of constant agitation and high partisanship, and Trump, seemingly with no hands, leverages that energy into bending so many Republicans to his will. And bendable people people who, like Trump, were always outsiders or never on the A-team are attracted to him to get ahead. What worries me most right now is that if Trump gets a second term, hell also bend all the key institutions that govern us. Already hes softening the steel in many of them so they can be bent more easily. Look at the dishonest crusade he has begun against the FBI for spying on his campaign and how we need to investigate the investigators. Trump and his bent spoons are ready to wreck any institution that gets in the way of his re-election or unfettered exercise of power. I dont want him impeached. He has to be voted out. Only that will restore the faith of the world that America has not lost its mind and maybe, maybe, will force a much-needed debate among Republicans, titled, How did we let this grifter take over our party? But defeating Trump wont be easy, so I am hoping for three things. First, we desperately need a third party. I dont mean a third party that sits between Democrats and Republicans. We need a Republican third-party candidate who wont just primary Trump but will get on the general election ballot and challenge him in 2020 in all 50 states but do it from his right, not from the center. Yes, we need a Republican who will do the most high-minded, patriotic thing I can imagine today fall on the Trump grenade. That is, run against Trump from the right in the national election as, say, a libertarian who could oppose Trump for his tariffs, his piling up of the national debt, his opposition to immigration and his immorality. We need a Republican who will do to Trump what Ralph Nader did to Al Gore in Florida in 2000. Second, we need some dutiful people to bear witness. There is now a club of people who have served at the top of Trumps administration in the past two years who either quit, because they would not bend, or were forced out after Trump could bend them no longer: Mattis, Don McGahn, H.R. McMaster, Rex Tillerson, Gary Cohn, Kirstjen Nielsen, John Kelly, Jeff Sessions and Reince Priebus. (We also need to hear from Robert Mueller.) We need them all to bear witness to the dishonesty, indecency and dysfunction they saw while serving Trump and to his unfitness for high office. Finally, most important, we need a Democratic candidate who can appeal not only to Democrats but also hold the independents, moderate Republicans and suburban women whose votes shifted the House to the Democrats in the 2018 midterm elections and whose support will be vital for any Democrat to win the presidency. This election is not just about who will deliver Medicare for all but about who can deliver all for one and one for all. I think a lot of people today are frightened that the country is getting pulled apart at the seams. It starts with Trump: His extreme language and behavior, now amplified by social media, fuels extreme reactions. And this is clearly heating up the society and stimulating some fringe actors on the right to physically attack people they believe Trump has identified as enemies of the state. Yes, virtually the entire GOP political/media apparatus is now a Trump-bent spoon ready to serve up whatever alternate universe he constructs. But the country is not. If Democrats dont fight fire with fire, they lose. But if they just fight fire with fire, we burn the whole house down. You also have to summon people with a message of unity and respect; there are moderate Republicans and independents whose support is vital. Its a tricky balance, and the Democrat who gets it wins. With the end of the Mueller probe and the news that the U.S. economy is performing far beyond expectations, President Donald Trump has reached an inflection point in his presidency. He has the chance to turn the political tides decisively in his favor, if he takes it. On Friday, we learned that the economy added 263,000 jobs in April exceeding the 190,000 that economists predicted. This came on top of the news, a week earlier, that the U.S. economy grew at an annual rate of 3.2 percent in the first quarter, far exceeding predictions of 2.5 percent growth. Unemployment is at the lowest level in five decades. In fact, Americas biggest economic problem is that, according to the Washington Post, the United States has more job openings than unemployed people to fill those jobs. Not only are people finding work, but their paychecks are growing. In April, wages rose 3.2 percent, the ninth straight month of above 3 percent wage growth. And the Wall Street Journal reports that wages for Americans without a high school diploma rose more than 6 percent last year, outpacing all other groups. Thats bad news for Joe Biden. His presidential campaign is built on the rationale that he can win back the forgotten Americans in key swing states who voted twice for him and Barack Obama but switched to Trump in 2016. His problem is these Americans are doing better under Trump than they did under Obama-Biden. In Wisconsin, the unemployment rate is 2.9 percent; in Pennsylvania, it is 3.9 percent; in Michigan, it is 4 percent; and in Ohio, 4.4 percent. Are these voters really going to switch horses in midstream when they are doing so much better during Trumps presidency than they did during Bidens vice presidency? Here is the bad news for Trump: While approval for his handling of the economy reached a new high of 56 percent, his overall job approval is still a dismal 45 percent, according to a CNN poll. Despite the booming economy, a 54 percent majority still disapprove of Trumps presidency. Why is that? One reason may be that, for the past two years Trump has been fighting accusations that he committed treason by conspiring with Russia to steal the 2016 election. No one likes a traitor, even if he is a job creator. When under attack, the natural instinct is to circle the wagons. Trump has spent the first two years of his presidency feeding and tending to his base, rather than working to expand it. He lashed out with what we now know was justifiable anger at the special counsel and Democrats who accused him of being a Russian agent. Persuadable Americans did not know what to think. But now with the Mueller investigation over and Trump cleared of any conspiracy with Russia, they might be willing to give the president a second look. How many voters are out there whom Trump might be able to win over? A lot. In the CNN poll, 20 percent of those who say they disapprove of Trumps performance generally say they approve of his handling of the economy. These Americans are happy with the results of Trumps presidency but not with him. The presidents challenge between now and November 2020 is to win over as many of those voters as possible. He can do that by restoring some normalcy to Washington. Trump needs to focus on a positive agenda to improve the lives of Americans, draw attention to his accomplishments rather than his controversies, and reach out and try to work with Democrats. He needs to keep the economy moving, which is why the $2 trillion infrastructure package he announced with Chuck and Nancy is so appealing to the president. For Trump, it is a win-win blue-collar jobs and Keynesian economic stimulus. Trump seems ready to make this pivot. He tweeted last week that after two years of hard work and each party trying their best to make the other party look as bad as possible, its time to get back to business. Republicans and Democrats must come together for the good of the American people. But it will take more than a tweet. Trump needs to be disciplined. He cannot allow Democrats to coax him into toxic political fights. He has been cleared of Russian collusion. Democrats are hurting only themselves with their never-ending investigations. He needs to focus on being president. His policies are working. He needs to make sure that Americans know it. There are millions who are benefiting from the Trump economic boom who do not support Trump yet. His job is to change their minds. Hes got 545 days to do it. @marcthiessen The Thokozani Khupe-led Movement for Democratic Change has welcomed a High Court ruling that MDC leader Nelson Chamisa and Elias Mudzuri were improperly appointed to the posts of vice president by the late Morgan Tsvangirai. In statement, Khupes party said, This victory not only vindicates Dr. Khupe and those in the MDC that have always stood for principle over political expediency but its a victory for all democratic forces and the rule of law in our country. This judgement is also a damning indictment to the many so-called legal scholars in the broader democratic movement who for the past years like the disgraced biblical Pontius Pilate looked the other way when the movement was veering off our founding values with such alarming impunity. The party said High Court judge Justice Edith Mushore, who made the ruling Wednesday, reminded us again what it is to be Zimbabwean by choosing courage and integrity over bigotry, misogyny, cowardice and mobocracy. It is therefore not surprising that those who seek power through violence and fraud are not able to successfully impeach her Ratio decidendi and are descending to their lowest weapon of choice which is personal insults and attacks on our judiciary. The party noted that it will soon contact MDC secretary general Douglas Mwonzora and other elected leaders for implementing the High Court ruling. Dr. Khupe has noted and welcomes the intention by some to appeal the judgment as this will give the superior courts an opportunity to confirm the universal rights of all Zimbabweans to fair and just administrative justice within any social organisation of their choice. Dr. Khupe demands all members of our movement to unite and be magnanimous at this time irrespective of their chosen side in this debacle. The party said Chamisa and his close associates should not be verbally abused or belittled in any way, shape or form. He remains an indispensable leader of our movement and to that end he deserves the uttermost respect from all disciplined cadres of our movement. But the MDC led by Chamisa said they fundamentally disagree with the High Court judgement. The choice of leaders of any political party, the world over is the sole preserve of the members of that party. It can never be a judicial process. Equally, the actions, activities and programmes of a political party, being a voluntary organisation whose existence is protected by the Constitution, is the sole preserve of the members that party. In the past few months, over 500,000 members of the MDC have been involved in a process of electing their leaders at lower levels, from branch to the province. More particularly, over 10,200 branches, 1,958 wards, 210 districts and 13 provinces have been elected. In just a few weeks time, the MDC will complete the process of democratically electing its leadership at a Congress convened in terms of its Constitution. The party said strangely, Justice Mushores judgement contradicts and totally ignores an earlier judgement of the High Court which ruled on the case of Murimoga versus the MDC. We are fully aware of the machinations and strategies being deployed by the Mnangagwa administration to destabilize and destroy the peoples project. We reiterate that Emmerson Mnangagwa is illegitimate and no amount of diversionary tactics will change this fact. The party further noted that preparations for the main Congress are at an advanced stage and 6,800 delegates are ready for the event to be held on May 24th in Gweru. That process is irreversible. We shall hold a historic and joyous Congress under the theme: Defining a new course for Zimbabwe. VOA Breaking News via Email Loading... Related Zimbabwe Latest News A Bulawayo mother, on Monday appeared before a local magistrate for leaving her two year-old baby in the care of a stranger while being intimate with her boyfriend at a local lodge. Ayanda Sibanda (22) appeared before Bulawayo Magistrate, Franklin Mkwananzi facing charges of ill-treatment or neglect of children or young person as defined in section 7 (1) of the Childrens Act. Prosecutor, Rufaro Mageza told the court that on 3 May 2019, along forth street between 5th and 6th Avenue, Sibanda approached Florence Tatani, a stranger and left asked her to care for her one year, eleven months old baby, under the pretext that she wanted to use a nearby bathroom. The complainant remained with the infant while the accused person went away. After the few minutes the accused did not return as she had promised. Tatani decided to seek help and report the case to the police after realising the accused had not returned after almost three hours, Mageza told the court. When quizzed by magistrate Mkwananzi where she had gone after leaving her baby with a stranger, Sibanda said she had gone to meet her boyfriend at a local lodge. Your worship, I had gone to meet my boyfriend at a local lodge, said Sibanda. The mother who pleaded guilty to the charges was remanded out of custody to May 7 for sentence. NewZimbabwe Breaking News via Email Loading... Related Zimbabwe Latest News THE High Court has dismissed a petition by losing MDC Alliance candidate for Bulawayo South Mr Muvirimi Francis Mangwendeza who was challenging Zanu PF candidate Mr Rajesh Kumara Indukant Modis victory in last years harmonised elections. In his petition filed at the Bulawayo High Court citing Cde Modi and the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (Zec) as respondents, Mr Mangwendeza alleged that the polls were tainted with irregularities. Mr Mangwendeza, through his lawyers Ncube Attorneys, sought an order nullifying the results of the July 30 harmonised elections for the Bulawayo South seat. He wanted the seat to be declared vacant. Bulawayo High Court judge Justice Thompson Mabhikwa ruled that the petition lacked merit and failed to meet the required legal standards. In casu, a reading of the petition gives an impression that the petitioner did not have a chief elections agent or polling agent. There is no mention of their role, observations or any complaints received or made by them on the alleged irregularities, he said. In dismissing the petition, Justice Mabhikwa said Mr Mangwendeza failed to prove to the court the alleged malpractices and irregularities which he claimed affected the outcome of the election. No cogent explanation has been given as to why the first respondent (Mr Modi) should be so punished. Accordingly, it is ordered that the petition is dismissed with costs on ordinary scale. The election result for the National Assembly seat for Bulawayo South Constituency pronouncing the first respondent as duly elected winner, stands, ruled Justice Mabhikwa. Mr Mangwendeza contested with several other candidates from other political parties as well as independent candidates. In his founding affidavit, he said on July 3, Zec allegedly published a malicious statement declaring that he was part of the 24 people who had withdrawn from the race without his knowledge and verification. He argued the statement de-campaigned him as those who supported him would have thought he was no longer in the race. Mr Mangwendeza said his loss in last years July 30 election was largely due to Zecs declaration, claiming to have discovered the anomaly on July 28 during the inspection of ballot papers. The election for the Member of the National Assembly seat for Bulawayo South on July 30, 2018 was not conducted in accordance with the principles laid down in the Electoral Act and such mistake or non-compliance did affect the outcome of the election. The election of the first respondent (Mr Modi) in such an election therefore cannot stand and has to be set aside, he said. Mr Mangwendeza said during the inspection he realised that some ballot papers for the MP did not have his name on them as a candidate. Mr Mangwendeza said on July 29, it turned out that more ballot papers had his name missing in ward 21 and ward 6. He said Zec indicated that their system was fool-proof, but it turned out that this was not the case as it emerged that not all the ballot papers in question were cancelled. Chronicle Breaking News via Email Loading... Related Zimbabwe Latest News The High Court ruling that has just been passed nullifying Movement for Democratic Change Alliance (MDC-Alliance) leader Nelson Chamisas authority has been received with mixed reactions and sentiments. Some Zimbabweans have taken it, mocking President Emmerson Mnangagwa of having had lost the right to succeed former president Robert Mugabe as ZANU PF leader following his expulsion from the party. They say according to the ruling party Constitution, after Mnangagwas sacking from both the party and government, it was the then vice president Phelekezela Mphoko who was the only legitimate number 2. When Mugabe resigned according to the party Constitution Mphoko as the only deputy at that time, was the only legitimate person to take over ZANU-PF as its new leader. By the virtue of having had been fired, Mnangagwa lost the right to succeed Mugabe, had it not been through a coup, said a former youth leader at district level who was aligned to the G40, who declined to be named. Mugabe succumbed to pressure and resigned after a motion had been moved to impeach him. This left the both the ruling party and country to spend days on autopilot without a leader, with Mphoko on the run from the coup plotters, while Mnangagwa was in self imposed exile in South Africa. Meanwhile, some members of the public in various social circles have since joined the fray, mocking Mnangagwa saying Mphoko is indeed the legitimate leader. Even hardcore, thoughtless and stupid Zanu-PF members will find this High Court decision irrational and embarrassing! Lets ask the same judge to use the same gymnastics to tell us who is the legitimate president of Zimbabwe! Jonathan Moyo Imagine if Mugabe or the G40 had gone to Court to argue that Mnangagwa had been illegally appointed President of ZANU PF in December 2017 after the violent ouster of Mugabe. It is hard to imagine any Zimbabwean Court being bold enough to rule as they have today against the MDC. David Coltart. As the MDC, we do not recognize or respect a judgement from biased and junta controlled judiciary. Chamisa is giving the junta and its goons in the judiciary sleepless nights. ED hapana chozikwana, its just rhetoric Those who dream of a different MDC must just form theirs, it is allowed. The MDC is the peoples project & us the people determine what happens or doesnt happen at the party. We are happy with our party. We are happy with. Patson Dzamara. This is the same court that said a military coup was constitutional and that a sitting president could not fire a deputy president he appointed. Laughable judiciary capture! Zanu PF through the captured judiciary cant impose a leader on MDC. Its pathetic abuse of judiciary by ED and his military cousins! Pedzisai Ruhanya The High Court has nullified the appointment of Nelson Chamisa as the MDC president It also said the party should hold Congress within a month using 2014 structures. legal minds whats the implication for that ruling? Zenzele Justice Esther Muremba of the Harare High Court rules that Nelson Chamisas appointment as vice president and subsequent assumption of the MDC presidency following Tsvangirai death was unconstitutional, orders party to hold extraordinary congress within a month. ZimLive Congress here we come. This judgement will not deter us. We remain focused on. When all else has failed they then resort to using the courts to come up with the most absurd judgements. Miriam Mushayi. The ruling had nothing to do with procedure, rather the standing of the person who brought it to court, thats not a procedural issue, is it. Also, go through Tsvangirais affidavit which was before the court. Nqaba Matshazi What effect will the ruling have on @MDCAllianceZW resolutions made with @nelsonchamisa presiding as President? Will the upcoming Congress nullify this ruling or will the Congress nominations be challenged? Temba Mliswa ZW Breaking News via Email Loading... Related Zimbabwe Latest News MDC secretary-general Douglas Mwonzora has reportedly taken extra measures to ensure his safety, including withdrawing from public places and not visiting the partys headquarters in Harare CBD as suspected party thugs are baying for his blood. This follows a ruling by the High Court of Zimbabwe that nullified Nelson Chamisas presidency of the party, with journalist Hopewell Chinono insinuating on social media that Mwonzora had the High Court judgement a week before it was delivered. A group of party youths, popularly known as the Vanguards, have also been seen surrounding party vice President Elias Mudzuris Milton Park home in Harare, singing derogatory songs. The youths accused Mudzuri of undermining Chamisa, saying Mudzuri sponsored the High Court application by a Gokwe MDC official which resulted in yesterdays ruling. ZOOMZimbabwe understands a report has been made to the police regards Mudzuris safety and the disturbance of peace at his home at lunchtime Thursday. ZOOMZimbabwe has received information that Starman Chamisa, a relative of Nelson who is also the legislator for Mbare, is at the centre of an operation hunting for Mwonzora. Starman Chamisa has been tasked with hiring thugs that should find and beat up Mwonzora, a source close to the developments told ZOOMZimbabwe. This followed a social media post by Chinono that linked Mwonzora to the leak of a High Court ruling to a NewsDay journalist, Blessed Mhlanga, last week, the source said. Writing on social media last night, Chinono said: Weeks ago I urged Wamba (Nelson Chamisa) and the MDC to accommodate Mukoma Douglas Mwonzora after he had been rejected by the MDC branches in his quest to lead the main opposition party. Today he stands accused of having known ahead of time about the exact nature and contents of todays court ruling that nullified Wambas Presidency. Senior MDC folks are saying that he told a Newsday journalist about it and that they chose to keep quiet to see how it will pan out. In a toxic political environment like this one, I urge Mukoma Douglas Mwonzora to clear his name. Did he tell a Newsday Journalist or not about the contents of todays judgement? Is he the source referred to in Blessed Mhlangas tweets? Did he mention the ruling days ago and its nature and contents? Controversial politician and human rights defender Linda Masarira has described as shocking the reactions by the MDC family to the High Court ruling. Quoting Article 2.0 of the MDC Constitution, Masarira says the MDC is a party constituted by many lawyers and must show respect for courts and court processes. The leadership of the opposition MDC has always been a hotly contested potato since the early 2000s. In July 2006, the late Trudy Stevenson and three other senior party leaders were attacked with stones and a machete by youths belonging to a rival opposition faction led by Morgan Tsvangirai, also now late. This was after Stevenson had chosen to align with a breakaway faction of the MDC led by Arthur Mutambara and Professor Welshman Ncube. Trudy and company were waylaid near Circle Cement as the thugs blocked the road and threw stones at their car, smashing the windscreen and windows. The mob pounced on the MDC officials and attacked them with an assortment of missiles, which included stones, iron bars and sticks. The thugs searched the victims as they lay helplessly on the ground and got away with three cell-phones, cash, two hand bags, two pairs of shoes and other important valuables including wedding rings. According to reports, the youths accused her of turning against founding MDC leader Morgan Tsvangirai. Four other MDC officials were reported to have been injured in the attack, two of them seriously. The attack on Stevenson led lawyer David Coltart, who had for a time remained neutral in the fight between Ncube and Tsvangirai, choosing to join Ncube because of what he said were unchecked violent tendencies among Tsvangirais supporters. In February 2014, MDC party youths assaulted then party Deputy Treasurer General Elton Mangoma, Tendai Biti and other officials accusing them of seeking the ouster of party leader Morgan Tsvangirai. The then Youth Assembly Secretary General Promise Mkwananzi was also assaulted while his boss Solomon Madzore was holed up in the building unable to leave. Police had to rescue the situation. Just like Tsvangirai, Chamisas reign has also had its fair share of violence against those perceived to be against the leadership. On 20 February 2018, internal party violence manifested itself when MDC youths commonly known as the Vanguard militia assaulted the former vice president Thokozani Khupe, legislator Lwazi Sibanda, secretary general Douglas Mwonzora and several others at Tsvangirais funeral service at Humanikwa village in Buhera, Manicaland province. The marauding youths accused the trio of opposing moves by acting party president Chamisa to succeed the late MDC-T leader. In March 2018, before Khupe walked away to lead her breakaway faction, another internal party violence erupted at the Bulawayo offices as angry Chamisa supporters viciously attacked Khupe and her supporters, assaulting and injuring Khupes driver Witness Dube and scores of her followers. ZOOMZimbabwe Breaking News via Email Loading... Related Zimbabwe Latest News (CNN) North Korea has fired at least one unidentified projectile, South Korea's military said Thursday. The launch took place at 4:30 p.m. in the western part of the country, and comes less than a week after North Korea test-fired several new weapons systems, the first confirmed launches of their kind since 2017. North Korean state media reported that the launches conducted on Saturday were part of a "strike drill" to "check the operating ability of large-caliber long-range multiple rocket launchers and tactical guided weapons." Pyongyang described the launches as "routine and self-defensive" in nature. But analysts worry that an uptick in weapons testing from the North Koreans could impact nuclear negotiations with the United States and South Korea. Talks between the three countries have been on the rocks since a February meeting between US President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un ended abruptly and without an agreement. The Thursday launch took place in the Sino-ri area in the country's western Pyongbuk province, South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff said. Sino-ri is believed to be home to one of about 20 undeclared missile facilities that Pyongyang operates throughout the country according to the Center for Strategic and International Studies' Beyond Parallel program. This is a developing story, more to follow This story was first published on CNN.com, "North Korea launches 'unidentified' projectile" RMG Independent End Time Message leader Robert Martin Gumburas plan to escape prison failed again today after his application for stay of proceedings to go to high court for a review was dismissed today. The rape convict, Gumbura had his application for discharge dismissed last month at the close of the State case after his application was turned down by a Harare magistrate. Gumburas lawyer Professor Lovemore Madhuku pleaded with magistrate Francis Mapfumo that they be given a week to take the matter to the High court for a review . However, Magistrate Mapfumo denied the application saying that the defense should have filled an urgent chamber application for the stay of proceedings. State Prosecutor Michael Reza had also opposed the application saying that the defense had a month to apply for a review but only to notify the court just before the defense trial begins. The foiled jailbreak took place in 2015 in which Gumbura and his accomplices wanted to be discharged at the end of the states case. Gumbura is jointly charged with Blessing Chauke (29), Lucky Mhungu (42), Taurai Dodzo (51), Thomas Chacha (41), Thulani Chizema (36), Jacob Sibanda (32), Elijah Vhumbunu (42) and Lucky Matambanadzo (43). Gumbura and his eight accomplices initially appeared in court on March 30, 2015 and only two, Vhumbunu and Matambanadzo were freed at the close of the states case sending Gumbura and others to defense case. During trial, they took turns to make a cocktail of applications which contributed to delays in the progression of the case. The defense trial is set to start on Monday 13 May 2019. 263Chat Breaking News via Email Loading... Related Zimbabwe Latest News A FOREIGN investor is considering pulling out of the country after its proposed US$2 million diaper manufacturing project in Bulawayo stalled due to a shortage of foreign currency to import raw materials. In an interview with Masters Diapers Zimbabwe director Mr Nigam Desai, whose project is the first of its kind in the city said their investor, a Mauritian company, has given them 30 days up to May 21, 2019 to show progression of the project. Recently, we had a meeting with our investors and they expressed concerns on the delay of this project going ahead. Its now almost one year and they have been very patient but they have now come to the point where theyre considering withdrawing the investment from Zimbabwe, he said. This is due to the fact that the machines have been here in the country for almost a year, the concerns are that the machines are sitting idle, gathering dust and rusting and the technology has been compromised. You cant allow the machinery to sit like this for too long, its not generating any income and maybe in two-three years time, the machines will become obsolete because the technology is moving at such a fast pace. The foreign investor bought the equipment for Masters Diapers Zimbabwe with the hope that the local company would source its own income or foreign currency to secure raw materials for the project to take off. The diaper manufacturing business was expected to kick off between November and December last year but still hangs in the balance as Masters Diapers Zimbabwe is yet to secure an undisclosed amount of foreign currency allocation from the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ). As such, they (investors) do not see solid direction in Zimbabwe, all they got are promises of various Government officials, Mr Desai said, adding that RBZ Governor Dr John Mangudya had assured them of forex allocation. How can we ask our investors to wait? Recently, they gave us 30 days that if nothing solid comes up, then the machines will be repatriated back to where they came from and this is a sad situation and we have tried everything and we dont know what to do. Glue, palp and tapes are some of the raw materials that would be imported from around the world from countries such as China, America, India and Singapore. Masters Diapers Zimbabwe said in the past it made several contact attempts through its banks directly with the Central Bank and Dr Mangudya had assured the company in November last year that funds would be availed for the project. Comment could not be obtained from Dr Mangudya yesterday as his mobile phone was not being answered. We recently met the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Industry and Commerce (Dr Mavis Sibanda) and she was delighted with this project being one of the first projects being put in Bulawayo and was saddened by the fact that if things dont work out investment will be withdrawn. She could not believe the project has taken over a year and nothing has happened and she did say that she will try her best to look into it and see what she can do for us, Mr Desai said. So, we have now come to a grinding halt, staff have been trained for four months and all that money is going to the waste, monies have been put into revamping this whole premise. The whole project is going to fail and this is not a good picture for foreign investors that want to come here and invest in Zimbabwe. It was hoped that once the plant starts producing, Masters Diapers Zimbabwe would export 60 to 70 percent of its product to countries like Zambia, Malawi, Mozambique and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The countrys trade promotion and export development body, ZimTrade, has already done a market research for the foreign market with indications of a readily available market. At present, Zimbabwe is spending between US$15 million and US$18 million annually importing diapers. It is hoped that if Masters Diapers Zimbabwe is to enter into the export market, this could go a long way in generating foreign currency as well as reducing the countrys trade deficit. Chronicle Breaking News via Email Loading... Related Zimbabwe Latest News *Leadership and legitimacy comes from the people, not the courts.* It has emerged to us that the regime is once again deeping its ugly nose on the judiciary. In the process capturing the same to issue political judgements. Its a fight, a fight we in the youth assembly a prepared to execute. We will not watch powerlessly while the executive visibly interferes with the affairs of the judiciary in a bid to punish, persecute and harrass perceived opponents. It must be known here and now that the MDC is a voluntary organisation whose members have a constitutionally guaranteed right to belong to. The leadership we chose is our choice and never the decision of these kangaroo courts! Thus said, yersterdays high court judgement which purports to have dethroned our President Adv Nelson Chamisa should not be taken seriously as it is laughable. President Chamisa is not just the legitimate president of MDC but the president of the Republic of Zimbabwe whose victory was stolen through violence, terror and cohesion by man military fatigue. We will not watch powerlessly while they play see-saw with the peoples project. I want to warn Zanu PF to stop its interference in judicial processes. Instead they should confront the ever worsening economic crisis showing its ugly face through fuel shortages, lack of foreign currency, price increases, shortages among others. Those amongst us who dont want President Nelson Chamisas Leadership are free to go and form their own party or rather join Zanu PF. As the national youth commander, I urge the youth across the country to be vigilant and prepare to protect our assets and our movement. They will rather destroy us first before they can destroy our movement. Aluta continua!!!! Happymore Chidziva Leader Cde Bvondo National youth commander M.P Highfield West Breaking News via Email Loading... Related Zimbabwe Latest News Has Brexit gone so far down the rabbit hole of UK party politics that there is no coming out the other side? Brexit is fracturing the UKs leading parties, yet there doesnt seem to be any way for the UK to move forward with the project, nor does there seem to be any politically viable path for the UK to back out by revoking Article 50. I hate to seem simplistic, but consider some important developments: The local elections exposed not only massive dissatisfaction with the Tories, but unhappiness with Labour too. With both major parties losing support because neither one can come up with a position on Brexit that will bridge the significant differences among their members, the UK is becoming even less capable of negotiating credibly or competently with the EU. Thanks to the EU Parliament elections, Nigel Farage is baackgiving Leave extremism a new lease on life. Determined minorities often punch above their weight. Look at the gun lobby and the anti-abortionists in the US. Farage is a mediagenic fount of plausible-sounding but wrongheaded Brexit soundbites. The UK press and public already believe too many false things on the topic of Brexit, and Farage will make sure they take up even more bad ideas. As Chris Grey put it last week: With the launch of the Brexit Party, a profoundly dangerous and dishonest argument which has been doing the rounds in Brexiter circles virtually since they won the Referendum is now being advanced with renewed and growing vigour. Its strength is its simplicity, indeed at the moment it is the entirety of the new partys pitch: Brexit has been betrayed and democracy thwarted by a remainer parliament and a remainer Prime Minister. Its a claim which is also, of course, made ad nauseam by Tory Brexiters, and seems to account at least in part for Labours continuing Brexit muddle. Judging by current opinion polls, this argument resonates with, at least, 27% of voters. That figure matters both because it is quite large certainly enough to bring significant success in the European elections but also because it is considerably smaller than the 52% who voted to leave the EU. So it probably represents the hard core of the Brexit vote, and consists of people who, most likely, are impervious to any arguments against the democracy betrayed argument. Even if the Brexit Party fails to attract more hard-core Brexit supporters, it will re-energize that faction. And since the press loves conflict, these radicals are likely to get more than their fair share of air time. The press and MPs continue to appear utterly confused about timing and process. All the debate about a customs union, labor rights, and other hard v. soft Brexit issues are moot until the UK passes the Withdrawal Agreement. Those issues come under the non-binding Political Declaration and wont be negotiated in any detail or seriousness until the UK is out of the EU, as in has entered into the transition period. When May is finally displaced, which will happen by this December at the latest, theres no reason to think that even any positions staked out in the Political Declaration will stick. And also recall another point made only very intermittently in Brexit commentaryif you thought the EU played the UK during the Withdrawal Agreement negotiations, you aint seen nuthin yet. The post-transition trade deal will be vastly more complex and hard fought. Again, to stress what ought to be obvious, no passage of the Withdrawal Agreement, no going forward. The EU has made clear its not ceding ground on the backstop. So despite all of the chatter among MPs about Norway and a customs union and other bright-sounding ideas for preserving frictionless trade, the UK will remain in a Brexit zombie state until it approves the Withdrawal Agreement. Yes, the UK could in theory revoke Article 50. But have you noticed that that remains a taboo topic in the media? And on the referendum front, the barmy abdication of Parliamentary duty called a confirmatory referendum (of the Political Declaration + Withdrawal Agreement?) which wont open up any new options, is now competing with a Second Referendum, which is the only viable political path to get to an Article 50 revocation. But even if MPs had been willing to back a Second Referendum, the EU didnt grant a long enough extension to allow that to occur. As Richard North pointed out: We are still left with the task of negotiating the real deal the future relationship with the European Union. But, if we get the full two-year extension, that brings us to the end of 2022, while the next general election is scheduled to be held on 5 May of the same year. That means that the final deal will not be agreed by this government. Assuming that Labour has a chance of winning, the next government could be led by Mr Corbyn and it could be him that sets the final terms. Unfortunately, theres another way of reading the timetable: that the UK is very likely to be not agreement capable. The Tories are coming apart as a party. 2022 is likely to bring a Labour win or yet another hamstrung coalition government.which the Fixed Term Parliaments Act perversely would shore up. So an incoming government could tear up substantial portions of a deal underway when the time to stitch up new terms and get the needed legislative approvals would be impossibly tight. North regards the timetable as unworkable even before considering our scenario of a new government seeking to reopen deal points, and focuses instead on what difficult trade agreement negotiations with the EU would mean for a 2022 general election: Unless something close to a miracle is concocted, the realisation might begin to dawn that, whatever is on offer, it wont get close to satisfying UK needs for frictionless trade with the EU, and nor will it prevent the backstop kicking in. More prosaically, since the timescale is unrealistically short, we may find ourselves in a situation analogous to where we have been, where there is insufficient time to conclude a deal any deal, and we are looking at a new version of a cliff-departure with no working agreements in place. The difference is that there will be no last-minute time extension. What the electoral consequences of this might be are perhaps easier to predict than a more stable scenario. We can assume that, in this case, the Tories will be hammered for their failure to bring a deal to fruition. The downside is that Labour wont be able to offer anything better, leaving both parties facing a potential train wreck. The cold, hard facts of this situation are that there is no possible scenario on the books that could give the UK the frictionless trade it needs to be able to function. The Norway option, as such, has only ever been a partial answer. It is the raft of additional bilateral agreements, on top of customising the EEA Agreement, which will be needed to make for a functional arrangement. In terms of VAT, data sharing, security cooperation and participation in EU agencies, any such agreements would take the UK into unknown territory, where it would be asking for a degree of integration and functional rights that under current conditions apply only to fully-fledged EU members. Not only is there no incentive for the EU to go that far, there is every reason for it to hold back, having said many times that it cannot allow a departing state to enjoy the same benefits as its members. On that basis, the UK is at some time going to have to bite the bullet, with the realisation that there will be substantial and unavoidable barriers to trade with the EU. It is inescapable that this will put UK firms at a commercial disadvantage, and slow down the physical process of moving goods to the continent. This may provoke a rebellious mood in the electorate at large if the predicament is properly understood which may inject a further element of unpredictability into the electoral equation. Will the EU throw the UK yet another lifeline on October 31? On the one hand, the EU talked tough before and then wimped out. As weve said, interpersonal dynamics matter a great deal in negotiations. Merkel even in her diminished state is still powerful and is also cautious. Macron is a blowhard and reports of the April summit give the impression that he overplayed his hand. The EU, having fallen into its kick the can bad habit, would find doing that again to be the path of least resistance. On the other, EU leaders told the UK not to waste time, yet here we are, nearly a full month into the extension, and no progress has been made. Michel Barnier gave a speech on EU issues a couple of weeks ago and barely mentioned Brexit, and when he did, it was clear that the EU regards Brexit as almost a legacy issue, that the EU feels it has more pressing issues to tackle. But EU officials probably recognize emotionally, and perhaps even intellectually, that theyve been put in the perverse position of acting in a guardianship or custodial role as far as the UK and Brexit are concerned. The UK ruling classes have made clear that are they not only too divided to make decisions and binding commitments, but they also lack the comprehension of how trade deals and the EU work to make sound choices even if they were able to get out of their own underwear. Its as if they were dealing with a schizophrenic, or alternatively, a failed state. The fact that the EU is not negotiating with anything resembling an equal, but a party incapable of managing its affairs on this topic creates a bizarre dynamic. In a one-off trade, youd expect the advantaged party to take the rube to the cleaners. But the EU is and will remain in a relationship with the UK. The EU has been put in the uncomfortable position of making decisions for the UK that the UK should be making for itself, or at least have the awareness to recognize that its dumped problems on the EUs lap and isnt even attempting to sort them out. Now there is a potential way out. Richard Smith points out that a convulsive political realignment could allow centrist interests on Brexit to align and come up with a coherent vision on Brexit, be it remain or a not-too-hard departure. The fracturing of the Tories would be the start of that process. But will the EU sit pat and wait for the UK to sort itself out, particularly since its possible that that process could take a generation and/or still not lead to a realistic posture on Brexit? Id love to be wrong, but I dont see how the UK gets out of its Brexit quagmire. Yves here. Wise may address the question of soil quality in his longer form work on small-scale farming. He acknowledges it as importantbut does it map onto labor distribution? And more generally, I am concerned that optimism about theoretical approaches to feeding the planet that are some way away from being implemented will feed complacency about the importance of reducing the size of the human populationwhich will happen involuntarily if we dont tackle the problem on our own. By Timothy A. Wise, who directs the Land and Food Rights Program at the Small Planet Institute in Cambridge, Mass. He is the author of the recently released Eating Tomorrow: Agribusiness, Family Farmers, and the Battle for the Future of Food(New Press, 2019). Originally published at TripleCrisis One version of an old joke features a shipwrecked economist on a deserted island who, when asked by his fellow survivors what expertise he can offer on how they can be rescued, replies, Assume we have a boat. Economists have a well-deserved reputation for making their theories work only by making unrealistic assumptions about how the real world operates. I was reminded of the joke often in the five years I traveled the world researching my book,Eating Tomorrow: Agribusiness, Family Farmers, and the Battle for the Future of Food. Policy-makers from Mexico to Malawi, India to Mozambique, routinely advocated large-scale, capital-intensive agricultural projects as the solution to widespread hunger and low agricultural productivity, oblivious to the reality that such initiatives generally displace more farmers than they employ. Where are the displaced supposed to go? Assume we have employment, can be the only answer, because economic growth sure wasnt generating enough jobs to absorb those displaced from rural areas. No one can sail home on an economists assumed boat. And assumed jobs wouldnt address the chronic unemployment and under-employment that characterize most developing countries. With demographic shifts creating youth bulges, job-creation remains an urgent priority. Indeed, growing populations are often portrayed as a demographic time bomb, conjuring images of unemployed youth joining gangs, insurgent groups, or just falling into despair in urban slums. But what if we saw all those unemployed workers as a resource rather than a curse? Economist Michael Lipton and others have long argued that the bulge in working-age youth can be a demographic dividend rather than a demographic time bomb, but only with policies that focus on creating and rewarding work, beginning with labor-intensive farming in agricultural societies. That is exactly what I see starting to happen in Mexico under its new president. The Demographic Dividend Lipton makes what should be an obvious point: labor creates wealth. So a society with a large share of able-bodied workers has a vast resource to generate economic development. The economic success stories in South and East Asia relied on an increase in the number of young people entering the workforce to accelerate economic growth. Lipton estimated that about one-third of the widely acclaimed Asian miracles of growth and poverty reduction could be attributed to those countries low dependency ratios the share of the population (children and older people) who dont work and are therefore dependent on the share of the population who can. The United States now faces the opposite problem, with baby-boomers collecting their Social Security checks and with fewer workers paying into the government retirement system. But in Africa, low dependency ratios, economically, mean fewer mouths to feed per able-bodied worker. In 2012 there were 120 working-age people for every 100 dependents; in 2050 there are projected to be 196, a 63% rise in workers-per-dependent. That should be a boon to economic growth, but only if those available workers can be put to productive work. In contemporary Asian success stories, such as Chinas, the first place they were put to work was in labor-intensive agriculture, with land reforms that created and supported intensive production on small farms of about two acres each. Sub-Saharan Africa is the ticking demographic time bomb everyone now worries about; populations are expected to double, or more, by 2050. But that could be a demographic dividend if governments pursue policies that put people to work, first in agriculture. The young will be a resource, not a curse. And bottom-up economic development, particularly if it improves the lives of women and girls, will slow population growth, as it has in other developing countries. Little Support for Labor-Intensive Agriculture In my research in Africa, I didnt see much evidence that governments saw working-age youth as a resource. And they certainly were not investing in the kind of labor-intensive small-scale farming that was the foundation for Asias economic miracles. But I saw plenty of examples of farmers taking matters into their own hands and intensifying their own production, generally with scant government support. Intensification now has a bad name among many sustainable agriculture advocates because the term has become associated with increased use of commercial inputs to raise productivity. Even sustainable intensification has been co-opted by advocates of Green Revolution technologies to argue for sustainable use of chemicals. But everywhere I traveled to research Eating Tomorrow, I saw farmers creatively intensifying the farming of their small plots, in truly sustainable ways. Those few who had access to irrigation could essentially double production, growing a second set of crops on the same land by irrigating it in the dry season. Even those who couldnt irrigate raised goats or other small livestock, composted the manure, and applied it to their fields, increasing soil composition, fertility, and productivity. Farmers inter-planted various food crops with their corn, ignoring Green Revolution monocultures and the bribes - subsidies for commercial corn seeds and chemical fertilizers - that backed them up. Farmers knew when they harvested cowpeas from the same fields from which they had recently picked their corn that they had indeed intensified production - two harvests rather than one - from their land. Agricultural economists measure yield as corn-per-acre, not total-food-per-acre, so those shipwrecked economists see intercropped fields as less productive than monocultures. But these farmers know better. And when corn crops fail due to drought or pests, they also know they have grown other foods that survive to sustain their families. Liptons policy advice is to provide public support so small-scale farmers can intensify production, putting all able-bodied family members to productive work. Organic and ecological agriculture, in fact, require more intensive farm management, more labor. If that labor is rewarded with good prices, it can initiate a virtuous cycle of economic development, taking advantage of the productive resource represented by a large working-age population, turning a potential demographic time bomb into a demographic dividend. Making Rural Mexico Great Again Interestingly, I now see such policies being implemented in Mexico, 25 years into the rural disaster that the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) helped create. The new approach comes from the government of Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, who was swept into office last year in a landslide of discontent with Mexicos corrupt leaders and their failure to sustain a decent standard of living for the majority of Mexicans. In 1994, NAFTA opened the floodgatesb to cheap, subsidized U.S. corn, wheat, soybeans, and other crops, inundating rural Mexico. Corn imports jumped fivefold, driving local corn prices down by two-thirds. Some five million able-bodied workers fled rural Mexico, and they did not find waiting for them any of the jobs NAFTAs economists had assumed would materialize. Some ended up as seasonal laborers on Driscolls strawberry farms in Northern Mexico. Others swelled city slums. Many risked the increasingly dangerous crossing to seek work in the United States. Most sent money back home so the family could keep its farm, often its only asset. Today, an embarrassing 57 percent of Mexicos able-bodied workers are in the informal sector, the broad category of off-the-books work ranging from street vending to drug trafficking. That is a higher share than before NAFTA. Clearly, Mexico hadnt put its able-bodied people to productive work to jumpstart economic development. The new Lopez Obrador administration, however, seems determined to make rural Mexico great again by investing in the productivity of the countrys family farmers in the most neglected areas of the country. The leader of his new Office of Food Self-Sufficiency, veteran farm leader Victor Suarez, has ambitious programs underway to reinvigorate rural economies by paying support prices for key food crops - corn, beans, wheat, rice, and milk - and using that public procurement to provide high-quality foodstuffs to schools, hospitals, and other public institutions and to the poor. A host of other policies, such as a massive agro-forestry program, aim to invest in soil fertility and sustainable resource use on the countrys small farms. If that approach sounds familiar, it should. It is exactly what the U.S. government did in the Great Depression, and it is part of what won Brazils Zero Hunger campaign international recognition. It is the cornerstone of Indias National Food Security Program, which I document in my book. In Mexico, Lopez Obrador says that the explicit goal is to eliminate the root causes of rural outmigration and illicit drug trafficking. In other words, echoing Lipton, to create dignified work in agriculture to turn Mexicos chronic youth unemployment into a demographic dividend. In these regions, when winter comes, ready or not, creatures big and small endure the coldest and most unforgiving landscapes on the planet. Thursdays from 8:30pm AEDT. Clare Hutchinson, the NATO Secretary Generals Special Representative for Women, Peace and Security visited Colombia (25-26 April 2019) to participate in an international seminar on gender and territorial security. While in Bogota, Ms. Hutchinson also attended a number of high level meetings, including with the Colombian Vice Minister of Defence Ms Diana Abaunza Millares and the Head of the Colombian Army Gender Office, Lieutenant Colonel Claudia Martinez. NATO reached a partnership agreement with Colombia in May 2017 making the country the Alliances first partner in South America. Ties between NATO and Colombia have grown since. Following high level staff talks at NATO Headquarters in November 2018, Colombia also recently hosted a NATO expert team at its demining training center which resulted in Columbia joining NATOs network of Partnership Training and Education Centers. In Colombia, Ms. Hutchinson presented NATOs agenda on Women Peace and Security and emphasized the Alliances deep commitment to advancing it even further. NATO promotes the full participation of women in all aspects of security and defence and Ms Hutchinson underscored the correlation between gender equality and a countrys stability. NATO considers womens empowerment and participation as imperative for achieving sustainable peace. Ms. Hutchinson reaffirmed NATOs commitment to support Colombia as the country starts to work on the implementation of the Women, Peace and Security agenda in the defence and security sectors. She also expressed hope that Colombia would associate itself with the revised NATO Action Plan on Women, Peace and Security and actively support its agenda. (Natural News) Hoping to capture the anti-white racist vote in 2020, Democratic presidential hopeful Elizabeth Warren recently proclaimed her belief that black women in America somehow dont receive the same level of care from doctors and nurses that white women do, implying that more white women need to die in order to level the playing field. Perhaps the craziest conspiracy theory weve heard yet from the Left, Warren told her audience at the She the People Presidential Forum in Houston, Texas, that the reason women of color die more often, specifically during pregnancy, than white women do is because of structural racism and that only she possesses the wherewithal to tackle this crisis head on, if elected president. There is a specific problem for women of color who are three, four times more likely to die in childbirth, Warren stated, pulling this ballpark figure out of presumably nowhere. And heres the thing, even after we do the adjustments for income, for education, this is true across the board. This is true for well-educated African-American women, for wealthy African-American women, and the best studies that Im seeing put it down to just one thing, prejudice, she added, failing to actually reveal these best studies to her listeners. According to Warren, the problem is also that American doctors and nurses, whom she implies are all white, lack the ability to hear African-American womens medical issues the same way that they hear the same things from white women. In other words, medical professionals working in America are somehow unable to translate the words that are coming out of black womens mouths, simply because of the color of their skin. For more news about the anti-white racism of deranged Leftists like Elizabeth Warren, be sure to check out Libtards.news and LiberalMob.com. If hospitals dont achieve the equality that Warren demands, she plans to remove funding and harm white patients As to how she plans to tackle this alleged problem of doctors and nurses apparently not having working eardrums whenever theyre in the same examination room with black women, Warren says she wants the government to remove funding from their places of employment as a punishment. Hospitals that effectively reduce the mortality rate of black women during childbirth will be given bonuses, Warren promises. But those that dont are going to have money taken away from them meaning other patients, including white women, will thus receive lesser care in order to generate equality for black women. I want to see the hospitals see it as their responsibility to address this problem head-on and make it a first priority, Warren bellowed, believing such nonsense to actually be a laudable idea that will somehow resonate with average Americans simply trying to make ends meet. The best way to do that is to use the money to make it happen because weve got to have change, and weve got to have change now, she added, fully satisfied with her virtue signaling drivel. What Warren doesnt see as a priority, however, is getting to the bottom of her questionable ancestry and family tree, including the revelation that her great-great-great grandfather was a member of a militia group that rounded up Cherokee Indians from their homes and separated them from their families. Besides lying about being a Native American, Warren has thus far failed to explain why her ancestors separated families of color, putting them at an economic and social disadvantage you know, the very same type of structural racism that shes now falsely accusing medical professionals of perpetuating. Warren also lied about being a minority in order to gain acceptance to prestigious American universities, further setting her actual minority counterparts at an academic disadvantage. Does part of Warrens medical reparations plan, if elected president, thus also include depriving herself and her family members of money in order to level that playing field? Sources for this article include: FoxNews.com NaturalNews.com (Natural News) Instagram has announced that it will begin fact checking and removing memes. (Article by Paul Joseph Watson republished from InfoWars.com) The social media giant, which is owned by Facebook, will use its 52 global fact checking partners to censor false photos and memes on its platform, according to Poynter. Instagram is taking those fact checks and applying them to the same false photos and memes on its platform, according to the report. Memes deemed factually incorrect will no longer appear under tabs where they can be discovered by random users. The Poynter Institute, which partners with Facebook, recently had to shut down its own database highlighting unreliable news sites after discovering inconsistencies between sources used to build the database and its final report. So you can trust them. Quite why memes have to be fact checked given that are almost always satirical and are not intended to be statements of fact may be a mystery to some. Its actually not a mystery at all. Studies have repeatedly shown that the political right is far better at spreading memes. A study undertaken by researchers at University College London found that the most effective memes largely originated in two places the subreddit r/the_donald a forum devoted to boosting President Donald Trump, and 4chans politically incorrect /pol forum. A VICE write-up of the study acknowledges that the most effectively spread memes originated on r/the_donald and /pol. Earlier this year, BuzzFeed lobbied Twitter to ban a meme which made fun of Democrats and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. Last year, Facebook announced the deployment of a large-scale machine learning system named Rosetta, which its using to automatically and proactively identify inappropriate or harmful content in images on the social network, reported Fox News. In other words, Facebook developed an AI that can tell if a meme is offensive. Its a scientific fact that the left cant meme, so far easier just to ban memes! Please support my work here. They want to silence us forever. Dont let them. Read more at: InfoWars.com (Natural News) As Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and other major social media sites continue to censor and ban conservatives, one notable liberty fighter is fighting back after being permanently de-personed by Mark Zuckerburgs speech Nazis. A week ago, YouTube sensation and former Infowars editor Paul Joseph Watson was banned by Facebook ostensibly as part of the social media behemoths drive to rid its platform of dangerous and hateful people. In addition, Infowars creator Alex Jones, conservative activist Laura Loomer, and Nation of Islam leader Louis Farrakhan, among others, were given the boot. In the aftermath, PJW said he had no idea why Facebook banned him he was not given any warnings about the content he regularly posted, nor was he given any reason for being deplatformed, other than the standard youre hateful and youre violent pabulum. But hes not taking this lying down. Writing on Infowars he noted: Last week I was permanently banned by Facebook for being a dangerous person. I found out about it not through Facebook, which failed to even send me a single email, but through media reports. Theyve put me in the same category as Louis Farrakhan, a man who compared Jews to termites and once described Adolf Hitler as a very great man. The Instagram (owned by Facebook) ban was even funnier given my page consisted mainly of selfies and videos of myself and my girlfriend feeding ducks. Super dangerous. But as humorous as it is, I take exception to being defamed as a dangerous person. PJW went on to ask rhetorically, To whom am I a danger, precisely? Mark Zuckerberg? He called the Facebook creator and multi-billionaire a creep oligarch whose social media platform is used by one-third of the worlds population (about 2.4 billion people), the thoughts of whom he seeks to control, PJW said. Whos the bigger danger? Watson noted further that he was ostensibly booted from the platform due to a new policy which states if you post material about people Mark Zuckerberg doesnt like then that material will be summarily removed and the posting offender banned. Tweeted support from the president isnt enough Meanwhile, users who post doubt and denials about the Holocaust well documented historically in pictures, accounts, and video are still permitted to spew real hate online and on Facebook. But defend Alex Jones or share an InfoWars link and youre in big, big trouble, PJW wrote. (Related: Actor Rob Schneider lambasts progressive Democrats and tech giants over their unbelievable censorship: We are in an Orwellian nightmare.) He went on to point out that CNN that bastion of fake news has also labeled him an extremist, to which he also takes issue. I refuse to be defamed as an extremist, too, he writes. Watson noted that he has never advocated the use of violence against anyone nor has he supported hate against any individual or organization. Media personality glibly repeated the hate and violence characterizations without citing any evidence for their proclamations, said Watson. I wont allow that to stand. He pointed out that Maajid Usman Nawaz, a British activist who founded Quilliam, a think tank focusing on countering extremism, was falsely defamed as an extremist by the Southern Poverty Law Center; after Nawaz sued, the SPLC was forced to pay him $3 million for falsely impugning him. Watson, founder of Summit.news, said that like Nawaz, he, too, has been threatened with death by Islamist actual extremists. But he wont allow a target to be painted on his back by Facebook and CNN. He said that soon, Facebook will be put on legal notice regarding the harm their actions have caused him and forced to explain why he was labeled dangerous and summarily banned. Its not clear that Watsons legal action will succeed, but he makes a great point in asking, What is anyone actually doing to stop the rapacious social media censorship of conservatives? While the Presidents tweets about me last week were nice, tweets arent nearly enough. Read more about how the tech giants are systematically suppressing conservatives at TechGiants.news and Suppressed.news. Sources include: Infowars.com TheNationalSentinel.com (Natural News) During a recent legislative debate over a bill in Alabama that, if passed, would ban most abortions in the state, Representative John Rogers, a black Democrat, made some shocking statements in seeming support of murdering both unborn babies and grown adults, both of whom he described as oftentimes being unwanted. Arguing with his Republican counterparts, who want to make abortion illegal save for cases in which abortion is necessary in order to prevent a serious health risk to the unborn childs mother, Rep. Rogers openly declared that some kids are unwanted, adding that you either kill them now or you kill them later. You bring them in the world unwanted, unloved, you send them to the electric chair, hes quoted as saying, much to the surprise of his colleagues, and presumably to many of his constituents as well. So, you kill them now or you kill them later, he added, matter-of-factly. For more abortion-related news, be sure to check out Abortions.news. Mostly conservative Alabama state House overwhelmingly supports banning abortion but not Democrats, of course The Human Life Protection Act, or HB 314, in case youre unfamiliar with it, would make most abortions Class A felonies, and most attempted abortions Class C felonies. It was overwhelmingly approved in the Alabama state House in a 74-3 vote, though most Democrats walked out of the chamber during roll call, refusing to vote. Rep. Rogers was actually one of the few Democrats to stay behind and vote, later chastising his Democrat colleagues for doing what they did. When youre opposed to something, stand there and fight it, hes quoted as saying. Im not leaving and walking out Im not scared of a fight. Borrowing a page from the more mainstream Leftist script, Rep. Rogers then went on to take aim at mens reproductive ability, using deranged logic likening the allowance of this by the government to the supposed right of women to murder the unborn human lives that grow inside their wombs during pregnancy. I may bring a bill to force all men to have vasectomies, Rep. Rogers stated, echoing the sentiments of Georgia Democrat Darshun Kendrick, who back in March similarly and facetiously (or was she serious?) proposed the passage of a testicular bill of rights to prohibit men from being able to release sperm from their testicles. For more news like this, be sure to check out Evil.news. Rep. Bradley Byrne, a Republican vying for Senator Doug Jones Senate seat in 2020, condemns pro-death position of Democrats In response to Rep. Rogers pro-death sentiments, Rep. Bradley Byrne, a Republican whos challenging Senator Doug Jones seat in 2020, called Democrats like Jones and Rogers holding seats in Alabamas government an abomination. Alabama deserves a 100% pro-life voice representing us in the U.S. Senate, Rep. Byrne added in a tweet, expressing disgust over the fact that Leftist Democrats like the aforementioned refuse To stand up to this type of extremism from members of [their] party in defense of innocent human life. Rep. Terri Collins, whos credited with sponsoring HB 314, also issued a statement about why her bills passage is critical for Alabama. Though it would more than likely get struck down by lower courts in its immediate aftermath, it would eventually make its way up to the Supreme Court, where shes confident that the right decision would be made in its favor. The heart of this bill is to confront a decision that was made by the courts in 1973 that said the baby in a womb is not a person, she told The Associated Press (AP), referring, of course, to the landmark decision that was made in the case of Roe v. Wade. Sources for this article include: Breitbart.com NaturalNews.com (Natural News) Its a well-established fact that Earths magnetic north pole is constantly on the move, which is why the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) updates the data in its World Magnetic Model every five years to reflect the north poles ever-fluctuating geographical position. But this constant magnetic shift has now become so dramatic that the World Magnetic Model is becoming obsolete much sooner than in times past, which some believe could be indicative of an impending pole shift. According to reports, the next update for the World Magnetic Model was supposed to be in 2020, as its last update occurred in 2015. But because Earths magnetic north pole has apparently drifted away from the Canadian Arctic and towards Siberia much more quickly than anticipated, scientists are scrambling to release an update in 2019 instead. We regularly assess the quality and accuracy of the model by comparing it with more recent data, says Arnaud Chulliat, a geophysicist at the University of Colorado Boulder, as well as at NOAAs National Centers for Environmental Information (NCEI). But in January 2018, Chulliat explains, he and others in his field began to notice that the error was increasing relatively fast, especially in the Arctic region. They thus determined that it was on track to exceed the specification before the end of the five-year interval, prompting them to release an update earlier than the normally specified timeframe. With the help of their foreign counterparts at the British Geological Survey in Edinburgh, Scotland, Chulliat et al. have reportedly been scrambling to collect the most up-to-date data on magnetic field recordings in order to plug it into the World Magnetic Model for a special 2019 release. They then plan to release another regularly scheduled update in 2020, which they hope will remain accurate until 2025. Despite its short-term use, this unexpected update is vital to navigators the world over, including those in charge of military, undersea and aircraft navigation; commercial airlines; search-and-rescue operations and other projects circling the North Pole, reports Space.com, citing reports from the NCEI. Other agencies, such as NASA, the Federal Aviation Administration and the U.S. Forest Service also rely on the model for surveying and mapping, satellite and antenna tracking, and air-traffic management. Even smartphone and consumer electronics companies need an accurate model so that they can provide users with up-to-date maps, compass applications and GPS services. For more related news, be sure to check out Space.news. Magnetic north pole started really picking up speed in the 1990s, experts say While science has been aware of magnetic north poles state of flux since the 1800s, it wasnt until the 1990s that experts began to observe that it was moving faster than normal. According to Chulliat, this shift increased in speed from about nine miles a year to about 34 miles a year an almost fourfold increase. In 2018, magnetic north pole took a much more dramatic leap in movement, actually crossing over the international date line into the Eastern Hemisphere. Its coming from a place where it was farther away from the north geographic pole, and now its very close to the geographic pole, says Chulliat. But, of course, if it continues in the same direction, it will go past the geographic pole and farther away again, but on the other side of the Earth, on the Russian side. While scientists are still trying to fully understand whats going on and why, many of them believe that liquid iron underneath Earths crust, and deep within its core, moves in unpredictable ways, and is thus influencing the movement of magnetic north pole in unpredictable ways. The location of the north magnetic pole appears to be governed by two large-scale patches of magnetic field, one beneath Canada and one beneath Siberia, says Phil Livermore, a geomagnetist at the University of Leeds in England. The Siberian patch is winning the competition. Sources for this article include: Space.com NaturalNews.com The Russian Navy's Northern Fleet has decided to dispose of the Mitrofan Moskalenko large landing ship (LLS), which has been in reserve since 2002, a source in the Russian ship repair industry told TASS. The Russian Navy's Northern Fleet has decided to dispose of the Mitrofan Moskalenko large landing ship (LLS), which has been in reserve since 2002, a source in the Russian ship repair industry told TASS. The Mitrofan Moskalenko large landing ship of Project 1174 (Picture Source: Russian MoD) "The large landing ship was towed from Severomorsk to Murmansk for subsequent scrapping yesterday," the source said clarifying that the Mitrofan Moskalenko would most likely be scrapped at the 35th Ship Repair Plant (a subsidiary of the Zvyozdochka ship repair centre, which is an affiliate of the United Shipbuilding Corporation). The Mitrofan Moskalenko large landing ship of project 1174 Nosorog was laid down in 1984. The warship joined the Russian Navy in 1990. Project 1174 Nosorog ships were conceived and designed as oceanic vessels to deliver and land airborne troops. The Yantar Shipyard based in Kaliningrad built three warships of this project. Two of them have been in reserve until recently. The project 1174 large landing ship was an amphibious assault vessel also known as a helicopter carrier. Its water displacement was 14,000 tons. It carried four Ka-29 helicopters. Several amphibious boats could stay in a well-dock. An empty tank hold and a well-dock could accommodate up to 50 PT-76 tanks or eighty armoured personnel carriers and infantry fighting vehicles or up to 120 automobiles. The hardware could be loaded in any combination. The number of paratroopers was close to 500 men. Russia was considering a possibility to restore the technical readiness of two Project 1174 large landing ships when France refused to hand over two Mistral-class helicopter carriers, which it had built for Russia, to Russia. Copyright 2019 TASS. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. San Francisco's embattled street-cleaning crew is caught up in yet another mess. An NBC Bay Area investigation reveals Public Works employees still appear to be dangerously overloading their vehicles with garbage, despite orders from state safety investigators to end the practice. Top leadership within Public Works vowed to make immediate changes back in February, following an NBC Bay Area report that exposed serious safety violations. Just days after that report aired, investigators with Cal/Osha cited the department for "overloading...street-cleaning trucks." Soon after, a Public Works spokesperson said new safety training sessions were held, where workers were told to never stack garbage above the sides of their pickup trucks. Recent surveillance by the Investigative Unit, however, shows dozens of vehicles carrying large mounds of unsecured trash, piled well above the walls of the trucks. NBC Bay Area SF Among California's Most Dangerous Cities for Commuters Traffic-related accidents leave about 600 people seriously injured each year in San Francisco. The city is considered one of the most dangerous in the state for commuters, according to the California Office of Traffic Safety. In fact, traffic-related accidents have killed at least 12 people so far this year. Mayor London Breed recently ordered police to increase enforcement against dangerous traffic behavior, however, NBC Bay Area has learned the citys own fleet of vehicles has been violating safety law for years, putting drivers, bikers, and pedestrians at risk. There is a chance that they could kill somebody, hurt somebody. said James Long, a veteran Public Works driver. Long used to haul trash for the citys street-cleaning crew and said the departments vehicles are dangerously overloaded on a daily basis. Public Works picks up an average of 133,000 pounds of garbage each day. NBC Bay Areas recent investigation exposed how the agencys vehicles often navigate through San Francisco while carrying large piles of unsecured trash, which violates the citys own safety rules and state law. SFPD Has Yet to Cite Street-Cleaning Crew, Despite Repeated Violations San Francisco police officers, however, have never ticketed a street cleaning vehicle, according to Public Works. In fact, officers have been spotted packing even more junk into already overloaded trucks. Despite submitting repeated interview requests, NBC Bay Area was told San Francisco Police Chief Bill Scott would be unavailable to comment. Raw cellphone video shows a San Francisco police officer helping a Public Works employee pack an already overloaded street-cleaning truck. 107 Street-Cleaning Trucks Exceed Weight Safety Limits City records, obtained and analyzed by the Investigative Unit, revealed 605 street-cleaning vehicles were overweight last year, exceeding safety limits. Three months after delivering those documents, however, Public Works provided what it described as more precise records, which listed new weight limits for 134 of its 169 street-cleaning vehicles. The new documents reflected 107 overweight vehicles during that same nine-month time period. Public Works is quick to note those violations are among roughly 29,000 trips to the dump. Each overweight vehicle is considered a hazard since drivers can encounter difficulties when attempting to slow down or stop. The risk is only compounded when vehicles commute though densely populated sections of downtown San Francisco. City leaders recently launched their own safety probe and are scheduled to hold a public hearing on the issue at City Hall on May 23. NBC Bay Area I don't want to be part of a system where we could've prevented something, and something really fatal happened to someone, said Norman Yee, president of the San Francisco Board of Supervisors. Yee, who said he was first alerted to the problem after watching a recent NBC Bay Area investigation, will lead the safety hearing. If lawmakers arent satisfied with what they hear, they have the power to order changes within Public Works and can also schedule follow-up hearings to monitor the departments progress. There needs to be improvement, he said. I think somebody could get hurt. Yee is expected to question the top two officials at the helm of Public Works Director Muhammed Nuru and Deputy Director Larry Stringer. What I'm worrying about is the potential at this point that something can happen in terms of causing a bad collision or some sort or a debris flying off a truck, Yee said. Yee says he was especially concerned when he learned Nuru was unaware of state safety laws governing his fleet of city vehicles. Wait a minute -- how can you not know about this, you know, these regulations, Yee said after viewing the NBC Bay Area interview with Nuru last February. I think safety is the number one priority at this department," Nuru said during the interview, adding, You know, we havent had any violations. We havent had any problems. Just four days after that interview aired, state investigators with Cal/OSHA cited Public Works for the unsafe condition of overloading street-cleaning trucks as well as unsafe or unhealthy conditions, work practices, and work procedures. In addition to noting overloaded vehicles, Cal/OSHA also noted clogged drains at a Public Works truck washing station, which forced city employees to wade through standing water filled with used syringes. We have to make sure that not only are the people who are working safe, but, you know, the general public is safe as we try and address the challenges with keeping our streets clean, Mayor Breed said. The fact is, there hasn't been really any reported incidents as it relates to this particular issue. I'm focused on making sure that we keep our streets clean. When asked what was being done to make sure it doesn't happen again, Breed said, It's being done as we speak. On the streets, however, it doesnt appear much has changed. NBC Bay Area recently visited the city dump again and watched as more than 30 trucks drove in without any of its trash covered. Nearly all of the vehicles had garbage piled above the sides of the truck. The Public Works Department told the Investigative Unit it now plans to retrofit its trash trucks with tarps that would secure garbage and other cargo. The plan, however, would likely take more than a year and roughly half a million dollars to complete. The department also said it conducted new training sessions to educate street-cleaning employees on proper safety measures and prevent overloading. The department, however, could not provide specific dates as to when those training sessions were held, nor could the agency specify how many employees attended. ______________________________________ .full-width .embed, .full-width .embedded.cm.embed{ text-align:left; } The department is broken, deadly and failing its community. That's the accusation Civil Rights Attorney John Burris leveled against Vallejo police on Wednesday. Burris is also calling on the state to step in. The family of Ronell Foster, who was killed by Vallejo police, also joined that fight. NBC Bay Area's Christie Smith has more in the video report above. Police officers and officials with the FBI are patrolling California High School Thursday following the discoveries of multiple threats made within a roughly one-week time period. Christopher George, principal of the San Ramon high school, indicated that there would be a "considerable" police presence on and around the campus Thursday and additional administrators who would be available to support students and staff. He also noted that there are 47 surveillance cameras at the school. "Obviously in these types of situations, the safety of the school, the staff and the kids that go here is paramount and that's the most important thing for us today," Cpl. Mike Pistello with the San Ramon Police Department said. "So we have an increased presence here." In addition to police officers, Pistello said multiple FBI officials would be "circulating" about the campus. He declined to state exactly how many FBI officials would be in the area, but he said they would not be in uniform. "We take these kind of things very seriously," Pistello said. There have been at least four threats at Cal High in recent years, including three since last Tuesday. The most recent threat happened Wednesday morning. Students reported seeing graffiti in a bathroom in the fine arts building that read, "Tomorrow, library will be shot up first, then courtyard and then myself" in addition to a racist comment directed at African Americans. Last week, students found graffiti in another restroom that read, "Cal will be shot up 5/9. Final warning." Details regarding the third threat were not immediately known. The principal released a letter to parents Wednesday outlining the most recent threat and the police response. "Despite this presence, some families will choose to keep their children home from school tomorrow and we fully support the decision that you make as a family," part of the statement read. "We understand and will work with teachers to ensure an absence tomorrow does not impact students. We will also have additional counselors available for students and staff." Last year, police arrested a freshman student for allegedly plotting to shoot six students they had on a hit list. The district attorney's office reviewed the evidence and decided not to press charges. The owner of the iconic Flintstones House in Hillsborough filed a counter suit against the town accusing city officials of discrimination. Almost as soon as the town of Hillsborough filed suit against Florence Fang, they Bay Area media mogul held a news conference at the infamous home and promised to fight back. The 20-page suit names two town officials saying one in particular "has history of animus toward individuals of Asian origin or ancestry and/or not of the Caucasian race." When Fang purchased the Flintstones House, she added some flair to the backyard, including massive dinosaur statues and other decorations to go with the modern stone age family theme of the Flintstones town of Bedrock. Attorney Angela Alioto said its unfair of the town of Hillsborough to order her client to take down those pieces of art. "This house gives nothing but joy," she said. "However, it doesnt fit in the elitist Hillsborough book of what we should have in Hillsborough. And as a consequence, this lawsuit is going to probably change many of their ordinances." Alioto will argue that Hillsboroughs ordinances are unconstitutional and said that the way some town officials enforced the rules was discriminatory. "Its absolutely vague and ambiguous and punitive, as to Mrs. Fang," she said. "And we firmly believe it is because she is Chinese." NBC Bay Area attempted to reach the official accused in Fangs suit but have not heard back. In March, the town of Hillsborough filed a suit against Fang, ordering her to remove the dinosaurs and other decorations calling them "a public nuisance." What to Know Google introduced new hardware at its developer conference: A less-expensive Pixel phone, and a 10-inch home smart display Accessibility breakthroughs in closed captioning and speech recognition also took center stage Many new features aim to convince users Google cares a lot about their privacy Ever since it outgrew San Francisco's Moscone Center, Google's annual I/O conference has embraced the outdoor vibe in its new home at Shoreline Amphitheater, giving out free sunscreen and water bottles to the 5,000 developers who attend. In a way, the sunny pop-up campus of geodesic domes and air conditioned tents keeps the conference true to its name: I/O stands for "input/output," but it also stands for "Innovation in the Open." And each year, it's where Google brings out what it's been working on for the world to see. Though past Google I/O keynotes have reached a staggering length of three and a half hours (anyone remember Sergey Brin's skydiving demo of Google Glass?) recent years have seen the presentation split in two: a product-focused keynote for reporters and fans, followed by a super-nerdy developer keynote after a brief break to refuel on Google's famous free lunch. This year, Google made a return to hardware launches on the I/O stage, with the new $399 Pixel 3a smartphone (in two sizes) that brings some of the high-end Pixel's most-loved features to an affordable, plastic device. Six months after the flagship Pixel 3's launch, reviewers are already calling the cheaper 3a "the only Pixel to buy." It will be sold at every major U.S. carrier store with the inexplicable exception of AT&T. The new phones are joined by a new, bigger home smart display that will compete with those already available from Facebook and Amazon. The 10" Nest Hub Max dwarfs its slightly older sibling, the Google Home Hub, which gets renamed the Nest Hub as Google merges its Nest and Google Home brands. The Max has a camera, which Google repeatedly mentioned has a physical "off" switch for those concerned about their privacy. Privacy was also a big theme in the launch of Android Q the as-yet-unnamed 10th major release of Android that will roll out to all users this summer. The smartphone OS has new app permissions to give users control over who gets access to sensitive data like their location, and gives pop-up reminders when an app is using that information in the background. These new permissions will send some developers scrambling to update their apps to keep them compatible with Android Q but Google's VP in charge of the operating system says it's worth it. "Location is a really important part of making sure your data is private, and users care about it a lot," Sameer Samat said in an interview after the keynote. He acknowledged the new app permissions are "a really big change, which I'm sure consumers are going to appreciate." Another privacy-enhancing feature is the move to perform speech processing directly on devices, instead of streaming audio to the cloud. In Android Q, a new accessibility feature called Live Caption uses entirely on-device speech recognition to provide closed captions for videos and podcasts that don't already have them including videos you record yourself. Live Caption joins another Google accessibility app called Live Transcribe, which is basically closed captioning for the real world. Google AI product manager Julie Cattiau works with a research scientist named Dmitri who uses Live Transcribe every day in meetings but she's working on an even tougher problem: helping Dmitri communicate in English. Dmitri lost his hearing as a child in Russia. "He never heard himself speak English," Cattiau said, so his speech can sometimes be difficult to understand. Cattiau's product, Project Euphonia, aims to make speech recognition that works for people like Dmitri, by finding ways to train Google's speech processing AI model with their unique way of speaking. Dmitri recorded 15 hours of audio in order to make the model work for him, but Cattiau is optimistic that in time, they'll be able to make working models with far fewer audio samples, and even address speech recognition for people with degenerative disorders like ALS. "I didn't know my grandmother, but she actually died from ALS, so I know about the disease from my mom," Cattiau said. Cattiau said she's encouraged by the success Dmitri is already having with her team's work. "In pretty much every meeting, he has multiple phones open," she said. "If some people in the room may not be used to his speech, they can just read the transcription instead. It's been amazing to see him follow a conversation, sometimes between multiple people, just by using a mobile application that transcribes everything around him." Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials continue to ask for holds on undocumented immigrants at the Santa Clara County Jail. The requests come after the county declared itself a sanctuary county and after the brutal murder of Bambi Larson in San Jose by an undocumented immigrant. NBC Bay Area filed a California Public Records Act request to get the numbers on just how many times ICE is asking for holds. The results are staggering. Last year, ICE averaged almost three detainer requests per day. The requests show ICE wants criminals who are being held inside, with the county continuing to reject the requests. Undocumented immigrants booked into Santa Clara County Jail are set free after serving their time, even though ICE has asked the county to hold onto them. "Saying it disturbs me greatly," said Bob Cooke, a retired special agent in charge for the California Department of Justice. Cooke said the county should honor the deportation holds that ICE puts on undocumented inmates, known as detainers. "You got to work real hard in California to get yourself in jail or prison," Cooke said. "So if he already gets his way there, then we should help that person do time, and then out of the country of they don't belong here." Here's what an NBC Bay Area investigation found: Since 2011, ICE has requested the county hold more than 7,554 inmates for deportation -- 30 of them for murder. ICE made more than 1,011 requests in 2018. So far, 159 requests have been made in the first three months of 2019. "We do not cooperate with ICE as a sanctuary county, unless there's a judicial warrant," said Enrique Flores, an aide to Santa Clara County Supervisor Dave Cortese. The supervisor wrote the local detainer policy nine years ago. Flores said the county policy is to only hold an undocumented inmate beyond his scheduled release date if a judge signs a warrant. "If you found your way and work hard enough to get to jail, then it's up to us to make sure you pay the consequences," Cooke said. Meanwhile, Santa Clara County's sanctuary policy is under review. In a couple of months, supervisors will either modify the policy or do nothing at all. A fire prevention meeting was held in Marin County Wednesday, on the six-month anniversary of the Camp Fire, the deadliest in California history. The focus of the meeting, which was held at the San Rafael community center, was how climate change is making a bad fire situation worse. Meanwhile, up in fire ravaged Paradise, people remembered just how bad things could be. "We need a place to live, a real apartment or house, something," said former Paradise resident Brian Aldridge. Six months after flames killed 85 people and wiped out the town of Paradise, recovery is very low. At least 1,000 people are still homeless, many surviving on FEMA and HUD money and almost the entire town still in ruins, officials said. Some moving to Yuba City, Redding and Reno as Paradise is still gone. "It really hasnt changed that much, they have done some light cleaning and just started rebuilding one or two homes," Aldridge said. "It's still a mess. In Marin County, 150 people attended the forum called Firestorm: Wildfires and Climate Change. Five fire departments and clean energy agencies were present, giving lessons of a comprehensive fire-fighting approach, including easing global earning by reducing carbon emissions. "Sign up for MCE, Marin Clean Energy, so that the electric grid will only use renewable resources," said Belle Cole from Action in Marin. The message Wednesday was that there are fire seasons three months longer than just 50 years ago, denser forests and more homes in the way. But also that people are responding. "I think the public is starting to hear what weve been saying which is refreshing," Christie Neill from the Marin Co. Fire Department said. "Action, which is great, but more is needed." Filmmaker Kevin Epps, well known for making the documentary Straight Outta Hunters Point, was ordered held without bail Wednesday on murder charges. The charges are linked to the October 2016 shooting death of Marcus Polk, inside Epps' home. Its a case prosecutors declined to file charges on back in 2016. In court Wednesday, the 51-year-old Epps did not enter a plea and his arraignment was set for Friday. Public Defender Manohar Raju argued that Epps, who has strong family ties, was not a flight risk and should be released. Mr. Epps is someone who is a longstanding, vital member of the community who is a tremendous artist, Raju said after court, noting Epps is a member of the NAACP, the Bay Area Black Journalists Association and serves on the board of the San Francisco Black Film Festival. He has a very supportive community here that, had we known about this earlier, there wouldnt have been enough room in the courtroom for all the people who support Mr. Epps. Were looking forward to getting more details, and investigating the case, and, eventually, freeing Mr. Epps. Prosecutor John Rowland argued against bail, saying Epps could be a flight risk. Noting Epps had more than $21,000 cash on him at the time of his arrest on Tuesday. The judge ordered Epps to remain in jail without bail until at least his scheduled arraignment Friday. After the court hearing ended, Epps' mother left the courtroom in tears. They have every reason to be distraught, said Rev. Amos Brown, speaking for the family. Particularly in the first instance he was exonerated and all of this has come out of the clear blue. So were waiting to find out the facts are. But more importantly, I repeat again, he deserves justice. And fairness. The owner of a Massachusetts auto auction where five people were killed when a vehicle driven by an unlicensed driver plowed into a crowd two years ago has pleaded not guilty to five counts of manslaughter. James Lamb, owner and president of the Lynnway Auto Auction in Billerica, was released on personal recognizance after his arraignment Thursday in Middlesex Superior Court in Woburn. Prosecutors say the 67-year-old hired unlicensed drivers despite being told not to, and failed to make necessary safety upgrades as required. Brenda Lopez, 48, of Providence, Rhode Island and Pantaleon Santos, 49, of Cumberland, Rhode Island, were pronounced dead when a Jeep Grand Cherokee accelerated into a crowd May 3, 2017. Over the next several days, Leezandra Aponte, 36, of Lowell; Ruben Espaillat, 55, of Methuen; and Elliott Rowlands Jr., 50, of Bourne, also died. Seven people were injured. Charges against Lamb and the company were announced in March after an investigation determined the president failed to keep employees safe since he was aware of shortfalls in safety measures. Middlesex District Attorney Marian Ryan said the company failed to ensure all of its drivers were properly licensed and trained. Lamb's attorney, Hank Brennan, said outside court that the company "took every safety measure known" to protect customers and workers. "Before this accident, Mr. Lamb and Lynnway Auto took every safety measure known in the community in the standards in that industry to protect not only the customers, the unfortunate victims, his family who works on the floor and friends and neighbors," said Brennan. The 76-year-old driver who crashed the vehicle, Roger Hartwell, will not face criminal charges. Although he was operating the vehicle with an expired license, Massachusetts law allows individuals to drive on private property. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration later cited the business for a range of infractions, including blocked exit routes, electrical hazards and record-keeping deficiencies and recommended $267,000 in fines. Claudia Santos, the daughter of Pantaleon Santos, spoke about her father outside of court. "He was a really happy man and loved his grandkids. He had 7 grandkids," she said. "He was a happy man, hardworking also." "I just want justice, that's it," added Claudia's brother. Lamb is due back in court July 11. A burglary suspect in Ohio is accused of entering a strangers home, petting their dog and then doing dishes in the home before leaving, according to police. The Vinton County Sheriffs office said it received a call from a homeowner in the Hamden area saying that a woman entered their home through a back door, sat down on their couch and began petting their family dog. The woman then washed the dishes and left the residence, police said. The victim stated that they did not know the female and the female was not invited into the residence, the sheriffs office wrote in a Facebook post. The victim also stated that the female was acting very strange. While they were talking to the homeowner, officers received a report of a woman matching the description of the burglar knocking on doors in the area. Cheyenne Ewing was arrested at the scene and ultimately charged with burglary, according to the sheriffs office. She allegedly gave a deputy a false name and said she had been up for two days. Police said she appeared to be under the influence of narcotics. She appeared in bond court Tuesday where a judge set her bond at $10,000. She was next expected to appear in court Thursday. They work in Chicagos emergency rooms, intensive care units, psychiatric wards and beyond. Nurses meet the needs of their patients with compassion and unmatched intuition. Seven Chicago-area nurses, all members of the Illinois Nurses Association, shared their secrets with NBC 5 about what they see on the job every day and what could drive them to the picket lines. #1 Their jobs go beyond just providing medical care While their primary focus is to meet the medical needs of patients in their care, a good nurse wears many hats to cater to sick individuals and their families. You need compassion, said Doris Carroll, a 35-year veteran nurse and Vice President of the Illinois Nurses Association. You need to have what we call critical thinking skills, so you need that education and be a good listener. Nurses said many patients simply need someone to talk to. The ER has become a large depository for people with psychiatric issues because of the closing of mental health facilities throughout the city, said Paul, an ER nurse at a Chicago hospital. A lot of them want help and they dont know how to find that help. And while doctors make their rounds, its the nurses who sit with patients, administer any medications and treatments and explain to patients and their families whats happening. #2 The ER: The one department that never stops Chicagos emergency rooms are unpredictable. We are seeing the most unstable patients. We dont know whats coming in on a day-to-day basis, said Bre, an ER nurse at a Chicago hospital. That thrill is what draws many ER nurses to the field, but its not without challenges. You can have a sweet old grandma whos there because her sugar is high or you can have a drunk who wants to murder you, said Paul. Warm summer nights in Chicago are especially difficult with the countless gunshot victims who are rushed to the hospital, nurses said, but festivals like Lollapalooza can be just as busy. Were going to have all these teenagerstheyre all passed out. Theyve taken so many different drugs and alcohol, and we have no idea what theyve taken, said Bre. We have to open up different parts of the hospital just to treat the amount of people from Lollapalooza. Plus were taking care of all the strokes, the cardiac arrests, the rape victims that were going to come anyway. We are going room to room, and truth is, a lot of times, we dont eat! #3 Nursing is a violent job A recent survey by the University of Illinois found 40 percent of nurses experienced violence or abuse at least once over the past year. Seventy-eight percent of the nurses surveyed anticipated violence or abusive events. The nurses who spoke with NBC 5 were unanimous that workplace violence was part of the job. I myself have been punched and kicked, slapped, spit on, said Paul. Ive been threatened with a knife before. Ive had people say theyre going to wait for me at my car so they could shoot me. Its been so bad, Ive had to press charges, said Bre. Its not just in the ER. The patient literally pulled the TV out of the wall and threw it in the hallway. The nurses were running for their lives hiding in the nursing station. And the security took 5 minutes to respond, said Terence Yee, a nurse for 27 years and President of the Illinois Nurses Association. Some hospitals have recently become crime scenes. Last November, a gunman killed Dr. Tamara ONeal, Chicago Police Officer Samuel Jimenez and Pharmacist Dayna Less at Chicagos Mercy Hospital. In May 2017, an unshackled inmate took two nurses hostage at Delnor Hospital in Geneva. One nurse was tortured and raped. This happened to nurses at their workplace. It shouldn't be this way, Doris said. The Delnor incident led to swift changes in Illinois law. All facilities that employ nurses must now have Workplace Violence Prevention Programs to review security issues. The law also provides whistle-blower protections for nurses who file criminal complaints against individuals who attack them. And finally, new safety protocols for the Department of Corrections and the Department of Juvenile Justice were put in place for inmates who need medical care at outside facilities. #4 Many nurses say they are dangerously overworked Threats to physical safety dont just come from patients but also in their working conditions, the nurses said. Many feel staffing levels are unsafe. By half way through the shift, you're going to burn out and then who's going to take care of the patients? said Terence. While staffing levels vary by unit and hospital, the ER nurses we spoke to said it was not uncommon to have upwards of five patients at a time. If youre an ICU nurse and youre taking care of three or four patients, you're not taking care of them. You're just putting out fires, and people are dying, Doris said. Not only is it dangerous for patients, it's dangerous for us. The Illinois Nurses Association is pushing the Safe Patient Limits bill that would mandate nurse staffing ratios and penalize hospitals that dont comply. HB 2604 would cap the number of patients per nurse, between one and four, depending on the unit. For example, an ER nurse would care for no more than three patients at a time; an ICU nurse would be assigned no more than two patients. California is the only state with a nurse staffing ratio law. The Illinois Health and Hospital Association opposes the legislation, saying a one-size-fits-all approach will not improve quality or outcomes. Instead, the group argues mandatory staffing levels will lead to reduced services, longer wait times and increased bills to the patient. They estimate the mandate could drive up health care costs in Illinois by $2 billion a year. If the legislation becomes law, hospitals that dont comply with the mandatory staffing ratios would face fines of $25,000 a day. Given the shortage of nurses in Illinois and the significant cost of this mandate, this bill will result in a reduction of healthcare services and therefore jobs. Something will have to give, A.J. Wilhelmi, President and CEO of the Illinois Health and Hospital Association, said before a House committee in March. The IHA is instead proposing the state improve the Nurse Staffing by Patient Acuity Law that is already on the books. Enacted in 2008, the law requires each Illinois hospital to have a nursing committee that sets staffing based on patient needs and nursing experience. Among IHAs proposals include requiring the committee to meet twice a year instead of once; mandating a way for nurses to report violations from the staffing plan; and prohibiting retaliation for employees who express concerns related to nurse staffing. The nurses we spoke to say the acuity law does not go far enough to protect them and their patients. They said a staffing ratio law would decrease nurse burnout and turnover. The nurses said they would be willing to strike if something doesnt change soon. We are ready to do that, Doris said. #5 Cant imagine doing anything else Despite the hard work and frustrating aspects of the job, the nurses who spoke with NBC 5 said they wouldnt choose another profession. In fact, many told us they became nurses because of personal experiences both good and bad. Flowers said one of her first experiences with nurses was when she was in labor as a teen mom. The nurse was so mean to me. She treated me like crap, said Bre. For my next child, I was much older, and the nurses were amazing! I decided I was going to become a nurse so that I can be a good nurse to everyone. Nurses said some of their most rewarding stories are seeing a patient come full circle. You see these patients rolling in, having a bad stroke, almost dead, said Terence. And a couple of weeks later, theyre walking out and to be part of that one is just amazing. #6 Sorry, family and friends. That rash? Youll live! Being a nurse means fielding medical questions from family and friends. It can be a blessing and a curse, said Pat, a 30-year veteran nurse. At church, Im the church nurse. Things happen, and its like Pat! And here I go! But given all the serious illnesses theyre exposed to, the nurses said they often dismiss everyday ailments of their loved ones. My husband and my kids, I put them on the back burner Bre said, with a laugh. My husband was complaining of back pain. He was telling me for months, and I kept saying youre fine. As a nurse, you think everyone will be fine. Well about three months later, he goes to the hospital and hes rushed to surgery. Her husband did get better after treatment. We see people dying, so your headache? Youre going to be fine. Your back pain is going to be fine. #7 You cant separate emotion from the job There is an emotional toll that comes from seeing people at their lowest and sickest moments. Were human beings. We generally see things that the average human person should never see, said Paul. Theyve had moments where they go home after a shift or outside of a patients room to cry. Our professionalism has to trump our emotion though because we have to move on to the next patient, said Bre. #8 Amidst the death and sadness they experience, it doesnt require much to make it a good day One genuine thank you makes or breaks my day, said Paul. It means everything when you see a smile. It just brightens your day, said Pat. And of course, when you can nurse a patient back to health, theres nothing better. Daniel and Shannon Flewellings 40th anniversary trip to Norway seemed picture perfect. The first part was wonderful, but then everything turned bad, Daniel Flewelling told us from his hospital bed. The Norwich man is still recovering from injuries and illness he believes started on Viking Sky cruise. I was healthy when I went on the cruise, when I got off I was almost dead, said Daniel. Youre thinking, should we have gone on this cruise? said his wife Shannon. A class-action lawsuit the couple joined alleges that Viking Cruises, negligently sailed through notoriously perilous waters into the path of a Bomb Cyclone, despite advance warnings of extremely severe wind gusts that could exceed 75 miles per hour. We both totally flipped over, his leg got cut, he went rolling down several steps, sprained his ankle, I got contusions on my ribs, recalled Shannon. The Flewellings said they both came down with the flu when they arrived home. Daniel said he started feeling the symptoms on the plane ride back from Norway. Hes been in four different hospitals since April 1 after suffering complications. I cant walk. I can hardly talk. And, I cant take care of myself, said Flewelling. Still on a respirator and feeding tube, Daniel was just admitted to Gaylord Hospital in Wallingford for acute care. He was in an induced coma for three weeks and paralyzed for two weeks. Hes expected to be hospitalized for several more months, before being sent to a nursing home for long-term care. At one point I was saying my goodbyes to him because they were at their wits end where they didnt think they could do anything more for him, said Shannon. The couple blames the conditions on the cruise. They had us sitting on the floor for hours and hours and hours, said Flewelling. The couple said they were in close quarters with other passengers for 18 hours, where toilets were overflowing and open containers of food were being passed around without utensils. The lawsuit, filed in Los Angeles court on Wednesday also claims that passengers were subjected to terror and fear of imminent death when the Viking Sky was adrift. The passengers are seeking $10 million in damages from the cruise line. I feared for my life that I was going to be drowned, said Shannon. Weve been on so many cruises but this was the first time where the life vests were not in our room. It was 20 minutes, maybe a half hour before they had enough life vests to give to people. The Viking Sky has said that, its procedures were implemented to the highest standards. I think they were winging it, stated Daniel. Even the crew members said this is totally different than we practiced. Sometimes they seemed totally clueless, added Shannon. A Viking Cruises spokesperson said they cannot comment on legal action, but immediately following the Viking Sky incident, Vikings chairman met the vessel when it docked and promised all guests a thorough investigation and full reimbursement. Viking said in addition to reimbursing Viking Sky passengers for their trip, they also compensated guests for other expenses they may have incurred. The Flewellings said the cruise line has compensated them for their trip and even paid some of their early medical bills, but now Daniel feels forgotten. Somebody has to recognize my wife and I, we matter. Nobodys come and said, how you doin, are you ok, said Daniel. Nobody from Viking has come to look at us yet at all and that upsets me. Still, Daniel is optimistic hell get his sea legs back. Hes already dreaming of his next cruise and says hed like it to be on the Viking Cruise Line. Shannon says she is leery of cruising with the company again. Either way, Daniel hopes their next trip will end differently. I want to walk off the ship happy and healthy, said Daniel with a smile. What to Know Hamden Officer Devin Eaton and Yale Officer Terrance Pollock opened fire on a vehicle while investigating a robbery on April 16. A passenger in that vehicle, 22-year-old Stephanie Washington, was injured in that shooting. No weapon was found on the victims. Protesters have been rallying since the shooting, calling for the firing of both officers. Activists interrupted a Hamden Police Commission meeting Wednesday, demanding an officer be fired and calling for justice after two people in a car were shot at by police last month. The commission is authorized to oversee the department and hear any complaints that people have against the department or specific officers. The commission was forced to end the meeting when it was disrupted by protesters chanting "Fire the officer," "no justice, no peace," and "Do your job." The situation got heated and protesters followed several commission members out when they ended the meeting early. The commission chair explained that they cannot fire the officer until the police department completes an internal investigation and then formal charges are brought to the commission to be considered. On April 16 a Hamden police officer and a Yale police officer opened fire on a car with two people inside while investigating a reported robbery. The passenger in that vehicle, 22-year-old Stephanie Washington, was injured in that shooting. No weapon was found on the victims. The shooting set of a string of protests demanding the firing of both officers and transparency in the investigation. People are troubled and theyre troubled over this situation and so am I," Police Commission Chairman Michael Iezzi said. Iezzi explained that they can't simply fire an officer. Generally, the police chief has to do the internal investigation and then formal charges related to policies and procedure are then brought to the commission to be considered. Its a very tough time and were trying to do the right thing for everybody," he said. A Quinnipiac University poll released Wednesday found that a majority of Hamden residents believe the shooting in New Haven involving a Hamden police officer was not justified. Connecticut State Police and the New Haven States Attorney continue to investigate. Hamden has launched its own internal investigation in consultation with an independent expert. The two officers are on paid leave while the investigations take place. Federal authorities say an 18-year-old Arlington man has pleaded guilty to recruiting fighters on behalf of a Pakistan-based terrorist group. Prosecutors say Michael Kyle Sewell entered a guilty plea in federal court Wednesday to conspiracy to provide material support to a foreign terrorist organization. Sewell admitted to trying to recruit another person to join Lashkar-e-Taiba, the militant group behind a 2008 attack in India's financial capital of Mumbai that killed 166 people. Prosecutors say Sewell put the person in contact with someone he thought would facilitate joining Lashkar-e-Taiba in Pakistan but was, in fact, an undercover FBI agent. Sewell is scheduled to be sentenced on Aug. 12. He could face up to 20 years in prison. What to Know Amber Alert was issued Sunday morning A car that was reportedly stolen when a 4-year-old Texas girl disappeared late last week was found Thursday in a suburban Houston parking lot, authorities said. A woman spotted the gray Nissan Altima in a Missouri City parking lot and reported it to police, Houston police Detective Kenneth Fregia said during a news conference. He said the car was found unlocked and didn't appear to be damaged, and that detectives would go over it "with a fine-toothed comb." Brittany Bowens, the mother of missing Maleah Davis, was at the scene as police conducted an initial search of the car. She could be seen crying and hitting her hands against the ground. Police say Maleah's stepfather, Darion Vence, told investigators that he was driving the car to the airport to pick up Bowens Friday night when he pulled over to check if it had a flat tire. Vence said men in a pickup truck pulled up, knocked him out and abducted him, Maleah and his 2-year-old son before eventually allowing him and the boy to go free, according to Houston police. KSNV-TV Fregia said the car's tires appeared to be fine and that investigators were searching for security footage that might show when and how it arrived in the lot. Vence initially reported his stepdaughter missing after he showed up Saturday at a hospital in Sugar Land, which is next to Missouri City. He told police he had been in and out of consciousness over the previous 24 hours and had walked there after coming to a highway that runs through the region. However, a Sugar Land police spokesman said Vence's "story changed several times." Fregia said Vence hasn't spoken with investigators since Saturday and that he'd "like to talk" with Vence again but isn't concerned about his whereabouts. Child Protective Services has been monitoring the home where Maleah lived with Vence, her mother and her siblings for months, according to spokeswoman Tiffani Butler. In August, the girl and her 5- and 1-year-old brothers were removed from the home and placed in the care of relatives after Maleah suffered a head injury that eventually led to her having multiple brain surgeries, Butler said. They were returned in February but officially remained in state custody and were checked on by a caseworker each month, she said. Check back for updates to this developing story. As details unfold, elements of this story may change. The CEO of Dallas' tourism agency, which was audited earlier this year, is stepping down, VisitDallas said in a press release Wednesday. Phillip Jones, who made $700,000 annually according to the audit, will leave after coming to a "mutual decision" with the VisitDallas board, the release said. "It has been a privilege to lead VisitDallas during an important period of growth for the organization and now it's time for my next challenge," Jones said in a statement. "Together with my colleagues at VisitDallas, the City of Dallas and partners across the hospitality and tourism industry, we have positioned Dallas as the top visitor destination in Texas for meetings and events, and one of the top convention and visitor destinations in the nation. I'm proud of our accomplishments and know the organization is on track for continued success." VisitDallas was audited for the first time in January, and the Dallas City Council was displeased with the report's findings. The audit found that Jones exceeded VisitDallas' travel expense guidelines -- he even billed the agency for a $543 backpack. The audit found weak city oversight of that money and also questioned VisitDallas performance claims. "I'm completely unsatisfied, this is a scathing audit," city councilman Scott Griggs said Jan. 9. "It is really an indictment of how they do business over at VisitDallas and how they are misusing scarce taxpayer resources, and to me it is unacceptable. We really need to have a housecleaning over at VisitDallas." Dallas Mayor Mike Rawlings will announce an interim VisitDallas CEO Thursday. Dallas County District Attorney John Creuzot hinged many of his campaign promises on criminal justice reform, which he says are needed to help the backlog of 10,000 cases. He started rolling out some of those reforms in April and they were met with backlash from some state and local leaders claiming his new policies will undermine the justice system. "Change brings fear to some people. The perception is that there is more fear than satisfaction because the fearful are louder," said DA Creuzot, who sat down with NBC 5 Today just before making a big announcement he hopes will help make some of his new initiatives a success. "I think there was more than public outcry. I think there was public satisfaction too." Creuzot pledged $100,000 toward a new homeless shelter Wednesday, in an effort to keep people out of jail. Dallas City Council members unanimously approved the Salvation Army shelter, to be built in Northwest Dallas on Interstate 35 E, Stemmons Freeway. The land is vacant now, but the 20-acre site will soon become a shelter that can house some 600 people. Last month, Creuzot detailed his decision to stop prosecution of certain cases, including first time marijuana offenders and food and personal health thefts valued at less than $750. [[509685772,C]] "What people dont understand is that we have a 10,000 case backlog of cases that we cant get to," Creuzot said. "We dont have the staff to get to them. And it continues to build and the question is are we going to try to knock that down, stop it from building or let it grow on cases that we are not doing anything with in the first place so its a question of resource management." He said this is not a free pass to break the law, but rather an alternative to what the county was used to -- a system that he said was not working, effectively costing tax payers for a job that wasnt getting done. He also talked about modifications to the marijuana prosecution policies within his office. "This idea that marijuana creates violent crime is just I dont know what to say. There is no research to suggest that and you know there are police chiefs who say there is. I have given that research over to institutions, notable institutions and they think very little of it and so do I," Creuzot said. "Discretion is exercised throughout the system and to say that I am exercising discretion on misdemeanor marijuana cases and that that is going to create some crime wave is disingenuous and its not reflective of how every actor in the criminal justice center operates." He said offenders who qualify will be eligible for programs and counseling instead of immediate jail time. Creuzot said thats how these cases stay out of the court system and ultimately decrease the number of repeat offenders. He said they have also enlisted the services of the Deason Criminal Justice Reform Center at SMU Dedman School of Law. They will be conducting studies to analyze the results of these changes to see if there are any adverse effects. Creuzot said if some of the reports are unfavorable or prove to be a danger to the community, they will look at revamping the changes. It was a scene that has repeated itself countless times in the Houston area: heavy rainfall made area roadways impassable and flooded homes, schools and businesses. On Wednesday, the Houston area was drying out after severe thunderstorms a day earlier caused flash flooding , inundating streets and stranding students at some schools. A break in the weather was expected to be short-lived as more rainfall was predicted over the next few days. Meanwhile, heavy rain elsewhere in the state caused flash flooding in numerous parts of northern, central and western Texas, causing one death in Austin. The rainfall was nowhere near what the area experienced during Hurricane Harvey in 2017, which flooded more than 150,000 homes in the Houston area and caused an estimated $125 billion in damage in Texas. But it represents what is becoming the new normal for Houston and surrounding communities, according to a local expert on flooding. "We're going to have to learn to live with flooding in Houston and we haven't quite accepted that reality yet," said Jim Blackburn, co-director of the Severe Storm Prediction, Education, and Evacuation from Disasters Center at Rice University in Houston. There are various reasons why Houston repeatedly floods: The city barely rises above sea level; it has insufficient infrastructure, including drainage; and it's experienced rapid development over the years that has drastically reduced wetlands that could soak up stormwater runoff. Students in the school districts in Cleveland and New Caney, northeast of Houston, were forced to spend at least part of Tuesday night at their campuses after flooded roads prevented buses from leaving and parents from reaching their children. About 60 students at an elementary school in Cleveland spent the night there. In Kingwood, a suburb north of Houston, almost 10 inches of rain fell, causing almost every street there to be under water for several hours, said Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner. "We're going to be in an unsettled weather pattern between now into Saturday and Sunday. We are watching the situation very, very carefully," Turner said. Neighboring Fort Bend County issued a disaster declaration after receiving up to 11 inches of rain, said County Judge KP George, the county's top administrator. In Sugar Land, a Houston suburb in Fort Bend County, up to 9 inches of rain fell, flooding all major roadways and resulting in more than 100 abandoned vehicles, said city spokesman Doug Adolph. Most of the street flooding had cleared on Wednesday. "It was pretty bad. It was raining nonstop, thunder and lightning and people were stuck on the side of the road. So, it wasn't fun. I swam home last night," said Matthew Graver, who lives in Richmond in Fort Bend County. Blackburn said the rain overwhelmed local drainage systems, many of which need major improvements. Houston's storm drain and pipe system is minimal compared with that of other cities and at most can take 1 1/2 inches (3.8 centimeters) of rain. Houston's streets serve as secondary drainage systems, and most will fill with water during intense rainfall, Blackburn said. He also said some storms hitting the area are becoming "more and more severe and they tend to linger over multiple days and that's becoming a scary pattern and perhaps is related to our changing climate." Scientists say climate change is responsible for more intense and more frequent extreme weather such as storms, droughts, floods and fires, but without extensive study they cannot directly link a single weather event to the changing climate. After Harvey, Houston-area voters approved a $2.5 billion bond program for a variety of flood control projects, more than 130 of which are already under construction. "We need to spend the bond money and get those improvements made," Blackburn said. Elsewhere in the state, the body of a man was recovered Wednesday afternoon from Lady Bird Lake in downtown Austin about a half-hour after a man was reported to have been swept away from a flooded street. In the West Texas town of Merkel, about 15 miles west of Abilene, Police Chief Phillip Conklin told KTXS-TV of Abilene that seven people were rescued Wednesday from floodwaters. Three were rescued from an apartment complex, two from flood-stranded vehicles and a couple from their home. Flash floodwaters washed out a Texas Pacifico Transportation railroad track near Mertzon, about 25 miles southwest of San Angelo in West Texas. Thunderstorms in the Panhandle prompted scattered reports to the National Weather Services of funnel clouds, but no tornadoes were reported. Associated Press journalists John L. Mone in Richmond, Texas, and David Warren and Terry Wallace in Dallas contributed to this report. Former Vice President Joe Biden brought his fledgling presidential campaign to the Southern California Wednesday for a pair of fundraisers, while also greeting residents and sitting down for tacos in the Pico-Union area with Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti. The Democratic presidential hopeful attended a midday fundraising event at the Hancock Park home of UCLA School of Medicine faculty member Dr. Cynthia Telles and her husband, media executive Joe Waz. Biden spoke for about 20 minutes at the event, thanking the roughly 250 people in attendance for their support and telling them he wants to "restore the backbone of this country." He also said he can bring the country together, accusing President Donald Trump of being a divisive force, dating back to the deadly 2017 white-nationalist rally in Charlottesville, Virginia. "Four years of this president will be an aberration in a moment in history," he said. "Eight years will fundamentally change who we are, beginning particularly in foreign policy." Outside the event, a group of protesters with the National Union of Healthcare Workers rallied in an effort to gain Biden's backing in a continuing labor dispute with Kaiser Permanente. Telles sits on the board of directors of Kaiser Foundation Hospitals. In a statement Tuesday, NUHW President Sal Rosselli said Biden "has the chance to do the right thing by standing with Kaiser clinicians and patients committed to making Kaiser provide timely and adequate care." NUHW staged a five-day strike at Kaiser facilities in December, contending the dispute is focused on under-staffing that forces mental-health patients "to wait months to see their therapists." Kaiser has rebuffed that claim, insisting the union is not concerned about access to care, but about higher wages and increased benefits. "This is a publicity stunt by union leadership disguised as a bargaining tactic aimed at disrupting a board member's event," Kaiser Permanente Vice President of Communications John Nelson said in a statement. Nelson said the sides are "on a path toward an agreement" and called it disappointing that "union leadership has decided to engage in this unproductive behavior today." Biden is scheduled to attend an evening fundraiser at the Beverly Hills home of James Costos, the U.S. ambassador to Spain during President Barack Obama's administration, and his husband, designer Michael Smith. Film mogul Jeffrey Katzenberg is among those listed as a co-host of the event, along with producer/businessman Peter Chernin and director Rob Reiner. Katzenberg also hosted an October fundraiser in Beverly Hills on behalf of Biden's political action committee, American Possibilities. Biden spoke at that event. Tickets to the Wednesday evening fundraiser cost $2,800, which includes a photo reception with Biden. Becoming a co-host of the event costs $10,000, according to an invitation obtained by The Washington Post. Between his fundraising events, Biden got together with Garcetti in the Pico-Union area to meet with residents, and the pair stopped at a King Taco eatery, where they ordered tacos and drinks and sat with diners. When surrounded by media, Biden fielded questions on a variety of topics -- ranging from the dispute over release of the Mueller Report to the federal crackdown on illegal immigrants and this week's school shooting in Colorado. Biden did not directly answer a question of whether he would consider Garcetti as a possible running mate, but he heaped praise on the mayor, who had pondered a 2020 presidential run before announcing earlier this year he would not be pursuing such a bid. "I just want to tell you, when he decided not to run I called him and I said I really have mixed emotions about this. The reason is, number one, I think he's one of the most qualified people in this country, one of the best mayors in this country. He's done incredibly innovative things. And I said, 'But I'm also glad you're not running because I plan on running.' And I'm serious, I wouldn't want to run against you. But look, he is qualified to be mayor, to be president, to be senator -- to do anything he decides to do. He's totally qualified." According to his campaign, Biden is expected to attend another fundraiser in the Los Angeles area on Thursday, although details were not immediately available. Wednesday's fundraising swing is Biden's first since formally throwing his hat into the ring for the Democratic presidential nomination. It also comes one day ahead of a planned Southland appearance by another Democrat with White House aspirations -- South Bend, Indiana Mayor Pete Buttigieg. Buttigieg, who will also be joined by Garcetti, is expected to attend a rally with various union members in support of a proposed parcel tax on the June 4 ballot to raise funds for the Los Angeles Unified School District. According to Variety, Buttigieg is planning to attend four fundraisers in the Los Angeles area on Thursday, including one at the home of actress Gwyneth Paltrow and a more low-cost -- $25 per person -- event at the Abbey in West Hollywood. Variety also reported that Buttigieg is already planning to return to Los Angeles June 19 for four more fundraisers, including one hosted by TV producer Ryan Murphy The family of a missing pregnant woman said Wednesday that they believe a baby found abandoned on top of a trash can in Chicago the previous day may be related to her, calling for a "speedy and thorough" investigation. Relatives of Marlen Ochoa, who has also been referred to as Marlen Lopez and Marlen Ochoa-Uriostegui, spoke at a news conference Wednesday morning at a church on Chicago's Northwest Side. "I think that we're convinced now that there's some wrongdoing here, that this is not somebody that just disappeared," Rev. Walter Coleman said at the news conference. "This is somebody that we believe is being held and we hope that she's alright," he continued, adding, "We believe that Marlen is still alive. We will find out hopefully in the next few days if this newborn baby was actually part of the family." Ochoa, 19, was last seen leaving the Latino Youth High School in the Little Village neighborhood, where she had been taking classes, on April 23. She was supposed to pick up her 3-year-old son from daycare that afternoon but her family said she never showed up. Ochoa was nine months pregnant with her second child when she was reported missing. Chicago police issued a high-risk missing persons alert for Ochoa on April 27. A CPD spokesman said Wednesday that officers could not confirm the baby found the day before was related to her. "We will need DNA and we have asked for it," Anthony Guglielmi said in an emailed statement. Authorities said a passerby noticed the newborn baby boy on top of a trash can Tuesday afternoon in the 1700 block of North Keystone Avenue in the city's Hermosa neighborhood. The good Samaritan brought the baby to a firehouse, according to Chicago police, who said paramedics then took the baby to Norwegian American Hospital in critical condition just after 4 p.m. The baby was "crying and kicking," a fire department spokesman said, and his condition was upgraded to stable before he was then transferred to Lurie Children's Hospital. The newborn was the first baby to be illegally abandoned in Illinois this year, according to Dawn Geras, who lobbied to pass Illinois' "Safe Haven" law. Under the law, infants 30 days or younger may be dropped off with no questions asked at a hospital, fire or police station, according to the state's Department of Child and Family Services. Ochoa's family said in a statement before their scheduled news conference that communications with police to date "have been a challenge" and that they planned to call on authorities to perform a DNA test on the newborn to identify whether or not Ochoa is the mother. But on Wednesday, Coleman said the family now thought police were adequately investigating the case. "We are convinced now that the police are working on this and that was our initial concern, that there is an ongoing investigation and they established some real leads that they can go on," he said. "We praise God, no matter whose baby it is, that this baby turned out through the efforts of the fire department to be alive, its a blessing from the lord," Coleman said. Ochoa was described as an Hispanic woman, standing at 5'3" and weighing around 125 pounds. She has brown hair and brown eyes, as well as a distinctive nose ring, according to the alert issued by police. She was last seen wearing a gray sweater and sweatpants with a maroon top bearing the Latino Youth High School logo, officials said. Ochoa may be driving a black Honda Civic, license plate number AW27865, according to police. Anyone with information on Ochoa or her whereabouts was asked to call 911 or CPD's Special Victim's Unit at (312) 747-8274. The U.S. said Thursday that it has seized a North Korean cargo ship that was used to violate international sanctions, a first-of-its kind enforcement action that comes amid a tense moment in relations between the two countries. The "Wise Honest," North Korea's second largest cargo ship, was detained in April 2018 as it traveled toward Indonesia. It's now in the process of being moved to American Samoa, Justice Department officials said. Officials made the announcement hours after North Korea fired two suspected short-range missiles toward the sea, the second weapons launch in five days and a possible signal that stalled talks over its nuclear weapons program are in trouble. The public disclosure that the vessel is now in U.S. custody may further inflame tensions, though U.S. officials said the timing of their complaint was not a response to the missile launch. Justice Department lawyers laid out the case for confiscating the ship in a complaint filed in New York, arguing that payments for maintenance and operation of the vessel were channeled through unwitting U.S. financial institutions in violation of American law. The coal trade itself is also believed to fund the isolated country's nuclear weapons and ballistic missile programs. "This sanctions-busting ship is now out of service," Assistant Attorney General John Demers, the Justice Department's top national security official, told reporters. He later added: "The U.S. sanctions against North Korea reflect the threat these programs pose to U.S. national security." The 581-foot Wise Honest was used for coal transports to ports in China, Russia and other countries, according to the complaint, generating badly needed revenue to a country that is under U.N. sanctions because of its nuclear weapons program. The ship also delivered heavy machinery back to North Korea. The vessel was owned by a subsidiary of a North Korean shipping company that is controlled by the country's military and is on a Treasury Department sanctions list, officials said. North Korea sought to disguise the nationality of the ship and the origin of its cargo, according to the complaint. The ship, in what U.S. officials say was a clear act of concealment, also turned off an automatic signal system intended to alert other ships of its course and location. Indonesian authorities intercepted and seized the Wise Honest in the East China Sea a month after it was photographed at the port of Nampo, North Korea, where it took on a load of coal. The captain of the ship was charged in Indonesia with violating that country's maritime laws and convicted, the complaint says. It was not immediately clear what happened to the rest of the crew, which at least at one time totaled two dozen members. The U.S. has prosecuted people and businesses for violating sanctions but has never before seized a North Korean ship. The country will have an opportunity to contest the seizure in court. If the U.S. prevails, it will be able to sell the vessel. "When nations who have stated an intent to do harm to the United States evade international sanctions, Americans become less safe," said Geoffrey Berman, the United States attorney for the Southern District of New York. Asked whether North Korea's largest merchant ship was similarly involved in illegal coal exports, Demers said that he did not know, but added, "If it is, we'd love to get our hands on it." President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un have held two summits focused on the North's nuclear program but have made no discernible progress toward a deal that would eliminate its weapons. At the White House on Thursday, Trump said the U.S. was looking "very seriously right now" at North Korea's recent military tests. "Nobody's happy about it." Skin care products containing a dangerous ingredient are being sold in South Florida stores. Products advertised to "lighten" skin or "fade" blemishes are commonly found in stores that cater to the Latino, Asian and African American communities. There's a growing trend fueled by social media and online tutorials that has people turning to products that may contain mercury. Many of those products are safe for use, but some have been reported by health experts to contain mercury. Federal regulators have warned against the use of products containing more than a trace amount of mercury, or more than 1ppm. "Think about what is gonna happen if this product is absorbed through your blood stream," Dr. Mercedes Florez-White said. Florez-White, a dermatologist at Florida International University, says products containing mercury can cause serious health problems. "They can produce kidney failure especially if you use it daily," Florez-White said. But some people are still using the products. "The question is why would people do it," Dr. Jeffrey Dean Swain said. Swain, author of the book A World of Color, says the want for lighter skin dates back to slavery and colonialism. "Color does matter and when you are talking about colorism and lightening the skin you are talking about people looking for opportunities," Swain said. In March, NBC 6 Responds found products health experts say contain mercury for sale in South Florida stores. The products we found are not only available in stores but can also be found for sale online. These products usually are manufactured abroad and sold illegally in the United States, according to the FDA. One of the products we found for sale is Niuma Lemon Medicated Germicidal Soap. The New York City Health Department has put out a warning that it contains "Elevated levels of mercury." When we reached out to its maker, Niuma Belleza in Spain, an employee who answered the phone denied the product contained mercury. The company's owner has not answered our emailed questions. We also found the skin cream, Deluxe Nadinola Bleaching Cream, for sale in a South Florida store. Two different studies have found the maker's products contain more than the FDA'S recommended amount of mercury. The Jamaican company E.W. Abrahams and Sons, Ltd. has not responded to our inquiry, but in a recent article the company's managing director said there are counterfeit products on the market. "It is out here and we don't know what is in it," he said. Nadinola-branded products are also made in the U.S. by the company, J. Strickland. They told us by email they do not "manufacture or sell this product or any product containing mercury. In recent years, J. Strickland has periodically become aware of counterfeit products that use the company's "Nadinola" brand name and or the name "J. Strickland" that have been unlawfully imported or manufactured and sold in the United States. Whenever the company has become aware of these products for sale in retail stores, J. Strickland has notified the retailers that the products are not genuine Nadinola and/or J. Strickland products and are instead counterfeit. J. Strickland would support appropriate regulatory action to eliminate counterfeit products from the market. Products manufactured by J. Strickland have never been the subject of regulatory action due to mercury content nor has testing revealed hidden mercury present in products we produce." We reached out to the Florida Department of Health to find out who is responsible for keep these products off the shelf. We were told it falls under federal regulation. When we reached out to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, a spokesperson told us by email the "FDA is investigating potentially violative products, including foreign manufactured products, marketed for skin lightening or bleaching in the U.S. marketplace and testing those products for the presence of mercury." We were also told the FDA may "inspect cosmetic manufacturing facilities and take action against adulterated or misbranded cosmetic products and against companies and individuals who market them. FDA takes action within our legal authority to address violative products through several different means, such as sending warning letters and untitled letters to notify firms that they are violating federal requirements. Failure of a manufacturer or firm to promptly correct violations associated with a cosmetic product on the market may result in enforcement action such as seizure, injunction or, in some situations, criminal prosecution. Additionally, if a product is harmful FDA may issue a public notice warning consumers not to purchase or use the products." Public notices previously warned consumers to stay away from products with listed ingredients such as mercuric, mercurous chloride and calomel. We asked the owners of the beauty supply stores where we found the products to speak with us about how they purchased the products to sell, each declined an on-camera interview. However, they did tell us skin lightening products are among their top sellers and they purchase the product from independent sellers. What to Know An I-Team investigation found illegal building conversions that officials say are dangerous and only getting worse The bad guys are doing whatever they want with impunity, said one official who has seen what some slumlords have done. Critics say the violations show a systemic pattern of failure to enforce building code laws A new battle is brewing in Rockland County amid accusations of overdevelopment and illegal conversions. Months ago, State Senator James Skoufis, who represents part of Rockland, launched an investigation into building code enforcement. His investigation parallels continuing coverage by the I-Team. Were finding illegal subdivisions where walls appear where they should not be. Were finding illegal rooming houses where slumlords are renting to vulnerable Spanish-speaking immigrants, Skoufis said. The I-Team submitted Freedom of Information requests for nearly two dozen properties in the town of Ramapo and the Village of Spring Valley. The locations were identified by members of the countys illegal housing task force and building insiders as being persistent offenders for failing to follow local building laws and codes. Many of the files in Spring Valley were incomplete or missing, according to Gordon Wren, the retired Director of Fire and Emergency Services, and a former Ramapo building inspector. Slumlords are doing whatever they want. Its out of control, Wren said. He added, Firefighting is dangerous under any conditions. Then when you have these illegal conversions, its extremely dangerous. Its the wild west, and getting wilder, said Justin Schwartz, chairman of the task force. The bad guys are doing whatever they want with impunity. The I-Team obtained recent photos taken by a fire inspector at a private home in Monsey. The inspector noted an obviously illegal yeshiva dormitory operating in basement with up to 6 beds per 4 overcrowded rooms, insufficient or blocked rescue and escape openings, missing smoke alarms, no CO alarms, and open/dangerous electric. The owner refused to comment on the photos the I-Team wanted to show her. A town spokesman said the violations have been cleared. Critics say that property illustrates a systemic pattern of failure to enforce building code laws. The I-Team also obtained a fire inspection for a property in Spring Valley housing a trailer for preschool children. The inspection was dated 2013. The inspector noted numerous violations and said he was looking to shut your operation down. There are no updated notations in the file, but the I-Team found children in the trailer and playing on the blacktop outside, with obvious hazards, including boards with nails, nearby. No officials in Spring Valley would comment to the I-team. The Ramapo supervisor, Michael Specht said, The safety of our residents and first responders is our top priority and thats why was have been so diligent with the building inspection processa process that has been looked at and validated by the State of New York. Skoufis plans to hold a hearing later in May on Ramapo and three other municipalities, including Mt. Vernon, Newburgh and Albany. What to Know The fake German heiress who swindled tens of thousands of dollars from New York banks and hotels has been sentenced to 4-12 years in prison A New York jury convicted Anna Sorokin of swindling tens of thousands of dollars from banks, hotels and friends She's been in custody since her arrest in October 2017 Anna Sorokin, the German con artist who passed herself off as a wealthy heiress to swindle banks, hotels and even close friends as she lived out a high-society, Instagram-ready fantasy in New York, was sentenced Thursday to four to 12 years in prison. The 28-year-old, who had played with her own tabloid image during the trial by wearing stylish dresses to court, looked despondent as the verdict was announced. She pressed her hand to her face and squeezed her eyes shut, appearing to hold back tears. Judge Diane Kiesel said Sorokin had been "blinded by the glitter and glamour of New York City" as she turned to fraud to finance a life she could never afford. But the judge turned down a request by Sorokin's lawyers to sentence her to the time she has already spent in jail awaiting trial. "I am stunned by the depth of the defendant's deception," Kiesel said, adding that she hoped to send a message to Sorokin's internet following "that her behavior is unacceptable." "Certainly she didn't think about the people she scammed," the judge added. The sentencing capped a spectacular case that drew international attention and tabloid headlines. Netflix and HBO are both working on shows based on Sorokin's audacious efforts to finagle her way into the Manhattan socialite scene. She was convicted last month on multiple counts of larceny and theft and has been in custody since her October 2017 arrest time behind bars that will be credited toward her sentence. The judge also ordered Sorokin to pay nearly $200,000 in restitution and a $24,000 fine. U.S. Immigrations and Customs Enforcement said it will seek to deport Sorokin to Germany following her release from state prison. Moments before she was sentenced, Sorokin briefly addressed the court, saying, "I apologize for the mistakes I made." Her defense attorney, Todd Spodek, told a gaggle of reporters that Sorokin was "holding up OK." He described the prison sentence as "expected" but said Sorokin will pursue an appeal. "She's a tough woman," Spodek said, noting she has been at Rikers Island for more than 500 days. Sorokin forged a new identity Anna Delvey and defrauded financial institutions and Manhattan celebrities into believing she had a fortune of $67 million (60 million euros) overseas that could cover her jet-setting lifestyle , high-end clothing and lavish hotel stays. She falsely claimed her father was a diplomat or an oil baron and falsified bank records. In fact, her father told New York magazine he's a former trucker who runs a heating-and-cooling business. Her ruse included an application for a $22 million loan to fund a private arts club, complete with exhibitions, installations and pop-up shops, prosecutors said. She was denied that loan but persuaded one bank to lend her $100,000 that she failed to repay. In all, prosecutors accused her of stealing some $275,000, including a $35,400 bill she failed to pay for a plane she chartered to and from the Berkshire Hathaway shareholders meeting in Omaha, Nebraska. She went to great lengths to ensure others paid her way, even as she had "not a cent to her name, as far as we can determine," prosecutor Catherine McCaw said following Sorokin's arrest. "An ordinary person would just take coach," McCaw told Kiesel at Thursday's hearing. "The defendant did not want an ordinary life, and she was willing to steal in order to get that." The jury convicted Sorokin of four counts of theft of services, three counts of grand larceny and one count of attempted grand larceny. Jurors acquitted her of two counts, including an allegation that she promised a friend an all-expenses paid trip to Morocco and then stuck her with the $62,000 bill. She was also found not guilty of one of the most serious charges in the indictment: attempting to steal more than $1 million from City National Bank. Spodek argued that Sorokin had been "buying time" and always intended to settle her debts. He portrayed her as an ambitious entrepreneur and said she lacked criminal intent. McCaw rejected that characterization, saying Sorokin showed "almost no remorse" throughout the proceedings. The prosecutor said Sorokin seemed to revel at the plight of her victims and showed more concern for her attire than the emotions of those she hurt. What to Know Legendary New YorK radio station WPLJ is signing off the air for good come the end of May The station will be off the airwaves after it was purchased by the owners of K-LOVE Christian radio The last broadcast will be May 31st After nearly 50 years, legendary radio station WPLJ is signing off the air for good. Come the end of May, the station will be off the airwaves after it was purchased by the owners of K-LOVE Christian radio. The New York City staple debuted in 1971 as a rock station, before transitioning to Top 40 and eventually adult contemporary most recently. Former D.J. Jim Kerr was behind the mic at WPLJ for 15 years, and like many of the on-air personalities, found a new broadcast home but many behind the scenes employees have remained I just feel really sad that so many talented, hard-working people are losing their jobs, said Kerr. WPLJ had lost market shares to other radio station in recent years, while still attracting a few new fans. I just like listening to it because its really fun and I listen to it every time I go to school, said 9-year-old Scarlett Blumenthal, who was saddened to learn of the stations closing. The last broadcast is set for May 31st. What to Know South Korea's military says North Korea has fired two suspected short-range missiles, and the launch is being investigated TV pitches for prescription drugs will soon include the price, giving consumers more information upfront as they make medication choices Meghan Markle and Prince Harry went with an unusual, non-traditional name for their first child, Archie Get the top headlines of the day in your morning briefing from NBC 4 New York, Monday through Friday. Sign up for our newsletter here. North Korea Fired 2 Suspected Missiles, Seoul Says South Korea's military says North Korea has fired two suspected short-range missiles, and the launch is being investigated by South Korean and U.S. authorities. South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff earlier said North Korea fired at least one projectile from the country's western province. It the North's second weapons launch in the last five days and a possible warning that nuclear disarmament talks with Washington could be in danger. The projectiles were launched from the Sino-ri area of North Pyongan Province, an area known to host one of North Korea's oldest missile bases where a brigade operates mid-range Rodong missiles. The launch comes as U.S. Special Representative for North Korea Stephen Biegun visits South Korea, and hours after the North described its firing of rocket artillery and an apparent short-range ballistic missile on Saturday as a regular and defensive military exercise. The North also ridiculed South Korea for criticizing those launches. 'Constitutional Crisis': Panel Votes to Hold AG in Contempt The House Judiciary Committee voted to hold Attorney General William Barr in contempt of Congress, escalating the Democrats' extraordinary legal battle with the Trump administration over access to special counsel Robert Mueller's Trump-Russia report. The vote capped a day of ever-deepening dispute between congressional Democrats and President Trump, who for the first time invoked the principle of executive privilege, claiming the right to block lawmakers from the full report on Mueller's probe of Russian interference to help Trump in the 2016 election. Committee Chairman Jerrold Nadler of New York declared the action by Trump's Justice Department a clear new sign of the president's "blanket defiance" of Congress' constitutional rights to conduct oversight. The White House's blockade, he said, "is an attack on the ability of the American people to know what the executive branch is doing." He said, "This cannot be." But Justice Department spokeswoman Kerri Kupec said it was disappointing that members of Congress "have chosen to engage in such inappropriate political theatrics." New Vatican Law: Priests, Nuns Must Report Sex Abuse, Cover-Up Pope Francis issued a groundbreaking law requiring all Catholic priests and nuns around the world to report clergy sexual abuse and cover-up by their superiors to church authorities, in a groundbreaking new effort to hold the Catholic hierarchy accountable for failing to protect their flocks. The new church law provides whistle-blower protections for anyone making a report and requires all dioceses around the world to have a system in place to receive the claims confidentially. And it outlines procedures for conducting preliminary investigations when the accused is a bishop, cardinal or religious superior. It's the latest effort by Francis to respond to the global eruption of the sex abuse and cover-up scandal that has devastated the credibility of the Catholic hierarchy and his own papacy. And it provides a new legal framework for U.S. bishops to use as they prepare to adopt accountability measures next month to respond to the scandal there. The law makes the world's 415,000 Catholic priests and 660,000 religious sisters mandated reporters. That means they are required to inform church authorities when they learn or have "well-founded motives to believe" that a cleric or sister has engaged in sexual abuse of a minor, sexual misconduct with an adult, possession of child pornography or that a superior has covered up any of those crimes. Drugmakers Will Have to Reveal Prices in TV Ads TV pitches for prescription drugs will soon include the price, giving consumers more information upfront as they make medication choices at a time when new drugs can carry anxiety-inducing prices. Health and Human Services Secretary Alex Azar said the Trump administration has finalized regulations requiring drug companies to disclose list prices of medications costing more than $35 for a month's supply. Drug companies responded adding prices to their commercials could unintentionally harm patients. But one major firm Johnson & Johnson, based in New Brunswick, New Jersey has already started disclosing the cost of its blood thinner Xarelto in TV advertising. And polls indicate many patients are not taking their medications as prescribed because of cost. Drug pricing details are expected to appear in text toward the end of commercials, when potential side effects are disclosed. TV viewers should notice the change later this year, perhaps as early as the summer. Decoding Archie Harrison: Meaning Behind the Royal Baby Name Meghan Markle and Prince Harry went with an unusual, non-traditional name for their first child, Archie. The 37-year-old Duchess of Sussex gave birth May 6 to their baby boy and she and her husband, 34, debuted him to the world and to Queen Elizabeth II, after which they revealed the child's name: Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor. Archie: According to nameberry.com: "Archie is a boy's name of German origin meaning 'truly brave." It is popular in the U.K. and also may have a special meaning for the royal family. Note that despite speculation, the couple has not confirmed whether the name is a formal name or a nickname of Archibald. Harrison: This one's literal. According to nameberry.com: "The name Harrison is a boy's name of English, Aboriginal origin meaning 'son of Harry.'" Mountbatten-Windsor: This has been the last name of the queen's male-line descendants who do not have royal styles and titles, and is a combination of her surname and and husband Prince Philip's adopted surname of Mountbatten. Britney Spears Gets Restraining Order Against Former Friend Britney Spears was granted a temporary restraining order against a former confidante who she says has been harassing her family again. A judge ordered 44-year-old Sam Lutfi, who has been in legal fights with the Spears family for a decade, to stay at least 200 yards from her, her parents and her two sons, who are 12 and 13. The judge also ordered that he not contact or disparage anyone from the family. The restraining order petition alleges Lutfi has been sending harassing and threatening texts to Spears' family and disparaging them on social media. In January, Spears put her career on indefinite hiatus and delayed the start of a Las Vegas residency so she could focus on her ailing father. Lutfi said he had not made contact with Spears since 2009, when a previous restraining order against him was granted to Spears. U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has cancelled a visit to Greenland to return to Washington amid an escalation of tensions with Iran. Pompeo had been due to wrap up a trip to Europe on Thursday with a stop in Greenland aimed at promoting the Trump administration's Arctic policies. Those policies were criticized earlier this week for not containing the words "climate change" when Pompeo attended an Arctic Council meeting in Finland. The State Department says that Pompeo will still order a restoration of a permanent U.S. diplomatic presence in Greenland. The Greenland stop was the second trip Pompeo cancelled on what was supposed to be a four-nation tour of Europe. On Tuesday, he abruptly dropped a trip to Germany to fly to Baghdad for meetings with Iraqi leaders. Protesters at the Venezuelan embassy in Washington were taken into custody Wednesday evening as demonstrations got heated. The embassy in Georgetown has become an unlikely flashpoint in the confrontation between populist Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and U.S.-backed Juan Guaido for political power in the South American country. Maduro invited American activists who see him as Venezuela's legitimate leader into the embassy a month ago as the United States and another 50 countries recognized Guaido as president and severed ties with his government. After the embassy was officially closed, the diplomats left, but the activists stayed. By Wednesday night, power and water was cut off at the building and police were not letting anyone bring food inside. A man was arrested for trying to throw food into an open window at the embassy. Video showed the bloodied protester sitting on the ground wearing handcuffs after a struggle with officers. Officers were seen putting handcuffs on another protester who was wearing a shirt representing Code Pink, one of the organizations at the embassy supporting Maduro. Outside the embassy, Venezuelan expatriates have been protesting the activists' presence inside the embassy. President Donald Trump's administration has said the activists are trespassing Venezuelan sovereign territory and need to leave. Gustavo Vecchio, Guaido's appointee as ambassador to Washington, has said he's signed all necessary documents and it is now up to U.S. authorities to clear the building. The activists created a so-called Venezuela Embassy Protection Collective, hanging giant posters from the roof and keeping a busy schedule of conferences, concerts, poetry recitals and other events. The Venezuelan expatriates started showing up in big numbers after an uprising against Maduro failed last week. It's unclear how many people the U.S. Secret Service took into custody Wednesday. The Harvard roommate of Mark Zuckerberg who co-founded Facebook is calling for the U.S. government to break up the company in a New York Times op-ed, telling NBC News that it's too big and that Zuckerberg isn't accountable. Facebook today "is far too big. It's far too powerful. And most importantly, its CEO, Mark Zuckerberg, is not accountable," Chris Hughes said in an interview set to air on NBC Nightly News Thursday, after the publication of his Times piece. Hughes still calls Zuckerberg a friend, but said that he can't fix the company, "only government can by making the market more competitive, by breaking it up, and by creating these privacy restrictions." Politicians in Washington have increasingly called for regulation of Facebook after the leaks of user information and Russians spreading misinformation on the platform to undermine democracy. Federal privacy regulators are under scrutiny in Congress as they negotiate a record fine with Facebook to punish the company for alleged violations of its users' privacy. The Federal Trade Commission is considering a rare action holding CEO Mark Zuckerberg personally accountable for Facebook's alleged failure to honor a 2011 agreement over privacy lapses. The agency also may limit how the giant social network targets advertising to its massive user base potentially making the action far more than a regulatory slap on the wrist. Beyond a fine expected to run as high as $5 billion, comprehensive action by the FTC could mark a watershed in federal action against the tech industry in the name of consumer privacy. FTC Chairman Joseph Simons and his four fellow commission members are coming before the House Energy and Commerce subcommittee on consumer protection at a hearing Wednesday. Simons, appointed by President Donald Trump in October 2017, is an expert in antitrust law who headed the FTC's competition division under President George W. Bush. By usual practice, the FTC an independent agency is split 3-2 between Republican and Democratic members. Simons has advocated tougher enforcement action against tech companies, and must obtain the agreement of at least two other commissioners for any action on Facebook. Lawmakers have started work on a new national privacy law that could sharply curtail the ability of the biggest tech companies to collect and make money off people's personal data. The role of the FTC as an enforcer of privacy protections is a key issue in the debate over legislation. Consumer privacy advocates and Democratic lawmakers, saying the agency lacks teeth, have pushed for changing the law to expand its powers and funding to police privacy. The FTC doesn't have the authority, for example, to levy civil money penalties for first violations for most unfair or deceptive practices. It can only issue orders halting the conduct, as it did with Facebook in 2011. The agency would be expected to write new privacy rules should Congress pass a new law. Behind the momentum for a new law is rising concern over a string of scandals and the compromise of private data held by Facebook, Google and other tech giants that have reaped riches by aggregating consumer information. The industry has traditionally been lightly regulated and has resisted closer oversight as a threat to its culture of free-wheeling innovation. Republicans have generally opposed an expansion of federal authority, but in the wake of the Facebook and other privacy scandals, some have taken a more open view toward the FTC's powers and funding. Some business groups are also proposing an expanded role in privacy protection for the FTC. The 2011 consent decree with the FTC bound Facebook to a 20-year privacy commitment. Violations could subject the company to fines of $41,484 per violation per user per day. The agreement requires that Facebook users give "affirmative express consent" any time that data they haven't made public is shared with a third party. The agency started investigating Facebook's privacy practices more than a year ago after reports surfaced that the British political consulting firm Cambridge Analytica had improperly accessed the data of as many as 87 million Facebook users without their consent. Lawmakers of both parties are pressuring the FTC to act decisively against Facebook in light of alleged failure to live up to that commitment. The agency should quickly complete its investigation and "compel sweeping changes to end the social network's pattern of misuse and abuse of personal data," Republican Sen. Josh Hawley of Missouri and Sen. Richard Blumenthal, a Connecticut Democrat, said in a letter Monday to Simons. Both are members of the Senate Judiciary Committee. "The Facebook consent-decree violations have been blatant and brazen, an offensive defiance that adds insult to injury," they wrote. They called the $3 billion to $5 billion fine anticipated by Facebook "a bargain" for the company that would make the FTC look like "traffic police handing out speeding tickets to companies profiting off breaking the law." "Fines alone are insufficient," Hawley and Blumenthal said. "Far-reaching reforms must finally hold Facebook accountable to consumers." Pope Francis issued a decree Thursday requiring all Catholic priests and nuns worldwide to report clergy sexual abuse and cover-up by their superiors to church authorities. His church ruling, however, did not go so far as to require clergy members to go to local law enforcement and report what they know. That omission didn't sit well with critics of the church's response to the global sex abuse scandal. In the Philadelphia region, local laws vary by state, but at least two states already have laws in place that go beyond Francis' decree. In Pennsylvania and New Jersey, clergy are included in laws governing the report of sexual abuse, and required to report abuse. In Delaware, clergy members are not required by law. However, the rules aren't quite that simple. Clergy and spiritual leaders of any kind are considered mandated reporters in Pennsylvania, according to the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services. Mandated reporters who fail to act could face criminal penalties, including a second-degree felony. Attorney General Josh Shapiro, who brought to light hundreds of sex abuse cases with a grand jury report last summer, called the Popes move encouraging in a tweet. It is encouraging to see a recognition and some action from the Vatican, but yet: The correct place to report sexual abuse and cover-up is to law enforcement," Shapiro tweeted. "The most important thing is to involve law enforcement," Shapiro later said. There is an exception for priests told of abuses during confession, a spokesman for Shapiro's office said. In New Jersey, all residents are required by law to report child abuse or neglect no matter their profession. Any person having reasonable cause to believe that a child has been subjected to child abuse or acts of child abuse shall report the same immediately to Department of Children and Family's Child Protection and Permanency (CP&P) by telephone or otherwise, New Jerseys statute says. The statute in New Jersey doesnt clearly state any punishment for not reporting alleged abuses to law enforcement outside of saying to failure to report makes that person disorderly. In Delaware, all people, no matter profession, are considered mandated reporters to child protective services, said Rosie Morales with the State of Delaware Office of the Child Advocate. Individuals can also report to law enforcement. The Delaware non-reporting law covers clergy as well as the church they represent, Morales said. Penalties of up to $10,000 for the first violation can be levied. The state department of justice would be responsible for determining any civil penalties. Communications between priests and people giving confession is considered privileged communication on the level of attorney/client privilege. NBC10 also reached out to the state attorneys general in New Jersey and Delaware for comment but neither answered our questions. Use these links to report any cases of child abuse or neglect in each state: Pennsylvania New Jersey Delaware Correction: This story has been updated to clarify Delaware's rules about mandated reporting. What to Know Delaware lawmakers are starting the process of discussing stricter gun control measures. Among the bills to be considered by a Senate committee is a proposed ban on certain semiautomatic firearms. Another bill would ban ammunition magazines holding more than 15 rounds. A package of stricter gun control measures proposed by Democratic lawmakers is getting its first hearing in Delaware's legislature. Among the bills to be considered by a Senate committee Wednesday is a proposed ban on certain semiautomatic firearms that gun control advocates call "assault weapons." Another bill bans ammunition magazines holding more than 15 rounds. Anyone who currently legally owns such magazines would have to surrender them to state authorities. A third bill requires any Delawarean wanting to buy a firearm to first obtain government permission in the form of a state-issued "purchaser card," which would require being fingerprinted and taking an approved firearms training course. Gun dealers, meanwhile, would be required to submit information on every gun sold and every gun purchaser for entry into a new state database. Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner teased what could be his next big policy reform: decriminalizing drug use. Speaking with Axios, Krasner said his office "is very close" to nixing charges for simple drug possession in favor of connecting drug users to treatment and other services. "One of the things we're looking at is essentially diverting all possession of drugs cases," he said during the interview, which will air on HBO later this month. "We are talking about people using drugs, the vast majority of them suffering from addiction," he added. "I do not see value in convicting people like that thereby making it harder for them to find a job." Krasner was careful to point out that was specifically referring people charged with possession, not with intent to sell. That remains a felony. Despite his tease on national television, a spokesperson for Krasner said district attorney's office is not able to share additional details. Instead, they offered this response: The DA believes that diversion is most often the best approach for dealing with simple drug possession, ideally to make sure that drug users get treatment for addiction as opposed to incarceration. We are considering ways to increase the use of these programs. But at this point, like the DA said, the idea is still under discussion. We expect to have more to announce soon, but at this time there is no written policy or timeline for implementation. It is still under development. A spokesman for Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney said the city has not received a formal reform proposal. "What we need and currently lack -- is a clear understanding of the full policy, and a discussion of its possible repercussions," Kenney's spokesperson Mike Dunn, said. In 2017, the Philadelphia Police Department launched a diversion program that connects people arrested for drug use with a social services provider. Engagement with that provider is the program's only requirement, Dunn said. Since it's roll out, the police department has reported a 5% re-arrest rate. "This process would precede any diversion determination made by the DA," Dunn said. "It is an example of a thoughtful, effective reform initiated by the stakeholders working in partnership, rather than making unilateral pronouncements to a national TV audience." Indeed Krasner has repeatedly made headlines, both national and local, since taking office last year. His reforms include reducing reliance on both cash bail and supervision, such as parole and probation. What to Know A Philly restaurant owner who threw lavish prom send-offs in her neighborhood was sentenced for defrauding the government. Saudia Shuler, 45, was sentenced to 3 years probation and 6 months of home confinement. Shuler admitted to collecting Social Security disability payments while failing to report income that would have made her ineligible. A North Philadelphia restaurateur was sentenced to house arrest but avoided jail time for defrauding the government out of tens of thousands of dollars in order to fund elaborate prom send-offs that included camels and a panther. Saudia Shuler, 45, was sentenced to three years probation with six months home confinement, 100 hours of community service, a $300 special assessment and $36,785.67 restitution. Saudia Shuler is not a folk hero or neighborhood champion she is an admitted thief who stole money from taxpayers in order to fund elaborate parties and enhance her own reputation, U.S. Attorney William M. McSwain said. Social security funds are meant to help people survive through challenging times, not to finance extravagancies like helicopter rides, exotic animal rentals or casino gambling binges." Prom was really a movie. My vision is Dubai came to Norrh Philly. S/O @pc.prince for JJ's custom #SnapchatFilter A post shared by Saudia Shuler (@countrycookin1) on Jun 2, 2017 at 8:46pm PDT My son so thurl . You the shit son @jjedenjr . All I asked for was straight AAAAAAA all Ur life and u sis that . A post shared by Saudia Shuler (@countrycookin1) on Jun 2, 2017 at 8:48pm PDT Shuler admitted to collecting Social Security disability payments for years while failing to report income that would have made her ineligible. Prosecutors said Shuler applied for benefits, described herself as disabled and unable to work, but continued working and operated a restaurant, costing the government more than $36,000. "Shame on her for taking money out of the pockets of people who actually depend on social security just to get by: the elderly, disabled and other vulnerable people some of whom live in Shulers North Philadelphia neighborhood," McSwain said. "She should be ashamed of herself and deserves to be held accountable for her crimes. Jay stylist killed it . You are amazing @stylesbychey . thank u A post shared by Saudia Shuler (@countrycookin1) on Jun 3, 2017 at 9:58am PDT My cakes was amaZing @_sweetaffection . You never disappoint me. thank u A post shared by Saudia Shuler (@countrycookin1) on Jun 2, 2017 at 8:59pm PDT Prom was really a movie. My vision is Dubai came to Norrh Philly. S/O @pc.prince for JJ custom #SnapchatFilter A post shared by Saudia Shuler (@countrycookin1) on Jun 2, 2017 at 8:46pm PDT The whole city came out for my boy @jjedenjr prom A post shared by Saudia Shuler (@countrycookin1) on Jun 2, 2017 at 8:38pm PDT The real deal for my son @jjedenjr . All the fake ones that tried to stop my show it shines brighter . A post shared by Saudia Shuler (@countrycookin1) on Jun 2, 2017 at 8:03pm PDT Dubai was really in North Philly yall . I hope Yall enjoyed it A post shared by Saudia Shuler (@countrycookin1) on Jun 2, 2017 at 7:44pm PDT In the spring of 2017, Shuler spent $25,000 on a camel, three tons of sand and exotic cars for a massive event in her neighborhood celebrating her sons prom. It was dubbed "Dubai to Philly." Months later, at Christmastime, Shuler held another big party in her neighborhood. It featured hundreds of gifts and two reindeer. The event was held at Country Cookin', the restaurant Shuler owns. She put her role as a business owner aside for the night and became "Saudia Claus," handing out hundreds of gifts to excited children. Last year, Shuler threw a Black Panther-themed prom send-off with an actual panther for neighborhood kids. Shuler told NBC10 that she used the events to celebrate her good fortunes after dealing with tragedies, including the murder of her son's father and multiple health scares over the past decade. I had a stroke. I had seizures. I had cancer, she said. All within the last three years. At the time, Shuler said shed received donations from all over the country to help pay for the outsize events. Defense attorney Tariq El-Shabazz cited his clients charitable work and said she had a stroke, was in rehab and couldnt do anything for two-plus years. Pope Francis issued a groundbreaking law Thursday requiring all Catholic priests and nuns around the world to report clergy sexual abuse and cover-up by their superiors to church authorities, in a new effort to hold the Catholic hierarchy accountable for failing to protect their flocks. The new church law provides whistle-blower protections for anyone making a report and requires all dioceses around the world to have a system in place to receive the claims confidentially. And it outlines procedures for conducting preliminary investigations when the accused is a bishop, cardinal or religious superior. It's the latest effort by Francis to respond to the global eruption of the sex abuse and cover-up scandal that has devastated the credibility of the Catholic hierarchy and his own papacy. And it provides a new legal framework for U.S. bishops to use as they prepare to adopt accountability measures next month to respond to the scandal there. "People must know that bishops are at the service of the people," said Archbishop Charles Scicluna, the Vatican's longtime sex crimes prosecutor. "They are not above the law, and if they do wrong, they must be reported." The law makes the world's 415,000 Catholic priests and 660,000 religious sisters mandated reporters. That means they are required to inform church authorities when they learn or have "well-founded motives to believe" that a cleric or sister has engaged in sexual abuse of a minor, sexual misconduct with an adult, possession of child pornography or that a superior has covered up any of those crimes. The law doesn't require them to report to police, as victims have demanded. The Vatican has long argued that different legal systems in different countries make a universal reporting law impossible, and that imposing one could endanger the church in places where Catholics are a persecuted minority. But the procedures do for the first time put into universal church law that clergy must obey civil reporting requirements where they live, and that their obligation to report to the church in no way interferes with that. If it is implemented fully, the Vatican could well see an avalanche of abuse and cover-up reports in the coming years. Since the law is procedural and not criminal in nature, it can be applied retroactively, meaning priests and nuns are now required to report even old cases of sexual wrongdoing and cover-ups and enjoy whistleblower protections for doing so. Previously such reporting was left up to the conscience of individual priests and nuns. Now it is church law. There are no punitive measures foreseen if they fail to report, and similarly there are no sanctions foreseen if dioceses, for example, fail to comply. But bishops and religious superiors could be accused of cover-up or negligence if they fail to implement the provisions, or retaliate against priests and nuns who make reports against them. The law defines the crimes that must be reported as: performing sexual acts with a minor or vulnerable person; forcing an adult "by violence or threat or through abuse of authority, to perform or submit to sexual acts," and the production, possession or distribution of child pornography. Cover-up is defined as "actions or omissions intended to interfere with or avoid" civil or canonical investigations. Cardinal Marc Ouellet, head of the Vatican's bishops office, said the inclusion of sex crimes involving adults was a clear reference to cases of sexual abuse of nuns and seminarians by their superiors a scandal that has exploded in recent months following reports, including by The Associated Press and the Vatican's own women's magazine, of sisters being sexually assaulted by priests. But Scicluna said it obviously covered lay people as well. In another legal first for the Vatican, the pope mandated that victims reporting abuse must be welcomed, listened to and supported by the hierarchy, as well as offered spiritual, medical and psychological assistance. The law says victims can't be forced to keep quiet, even though the investigation itself is still conducted under pontifical secret. And in a novelty, the law requires that if victims request it, they must be informed of the outcome of the investigation again a response to longstanding complaints that victims are kept in the dark about how their claims were handled. But the key point of the law is to decree that the church's own priests and nuns are mandated reporters and require every diocese around the world create an accessible, confidential reporting system to receive claims of sexual abuse and cover-up. The other key element outlines the preliminary investigation procedures to be used when the accused predator is a member of the church hierarchy. Victims and their advocates have long complained that bishops and religious superiors have escaped justice for having engaged in sexual misconduct themselves, or failed to protect their flocks from predator priests. Bishops and religious superiors are accountable only to the pope, and only a handful have ever been sanctioned or removed for sex abuse or cover-up, and usually only after particularly egregious misbehavior became public. Last summer, the scandal over ex-Cardinal Theodore McCarrick epitomized the trend: McCarrick rose to the heights of the Catholic hierarchy even though he had credible allegations of sexual misconduct against him that the Vatican had received. Francis ultimately defrocked McCarrick earlier this year after a U.S. church investigation determined he sexually abused minors as well as adult seminarians. The new procedures call for any claim of sexual misconduct or cover-up against a bishop, religious superior or eastern rite patriarch to be reported to the Holy See and the metropolitan bishop, who is a regular diocesan bishop also responsible for a broader geographic area than his dioceses alone. Unless the metropolitan bishop finds the claim "manifestly unfounded," he must immediately ask permission from the Vatican to open a preliminary investigation and must hear back from Rome within 30 days a remarkably fast turnaround for the lethargic Holy See. The metropolitan then has an initial 90 days to conduct the investigation, though extensions are possible. The law makes clear he can use lay experts to help, a key provision that is already used in many dioceses to give bishops expert advice on handling cases from people with law enforcement or medical backgrounds. And it recommends that a special fund be set up to pay for the investigations, particularly in poorer parts of the world. Once the investigation is completed, the metropolitan sends the results to the Vatican for a decision on how to proceed. The new law effectively stops there; existing procedures are in place for further investigation and possible sanction of bishops, though legal experts have said those 2016 procedures too require an overhaul since they are far from clear or efficient. The new law does, however, require Vatican offices to share information throughout the process, since an untold number of cases have fallen through the cracks thanks to the silo-like nature of the Holy See bureaucracy, where each congregation zealously guards its own turf and files. The use of the metropolitan bishop to conduct the preliminary investigation was first publicly proposed by Chicago Cardinal Blase Cupich at a meeting of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops in November. Cupich elaborated on it when he addressed Francis' February sex abuse summit, which the pope convened to demand a global response to the problem. The procedures published Thursday are likely thus to form a key legal framework for U.S. bishops when they meet in Baltimore June 11-13 to adopt new accountability procedures. The U.S. hierarchy has been under immense public pressure to hold one another accountable for sexual misconduct and cover-up stemming from both the McCarrick scandal and the release of the Pennsylvania grand jury report. It was apparently an open secret that McCarrick slept with seminarians, and yet his brother bishops allowed him to become their spokesman when they first adopted measures to combat child sex abuse in 2002. Pennsylvania's top prosecutor, Attorney General Josh Shapiro, who has pressed the Vatican to open up about its sex scandals, called the measure encouraging, but with a caveat. "It is encouraging to see a recognition and some action from the Vatican, but yet: The correct place to report sexual abuse and cover up is to law enforcement," he said in a tweet. The law goes into effect June 1 for an initial three years. Dioceses must establish the reporting system and confirm it is in place to the local Vatican embassy by June 1, 2020. A disgruntled parent urged the San Diego City Council to withhold $90,000 in taxpayer funding for the San Diego Junior Theater and demanded an independent investigation of alleged wrongdoing of the theaters board of directors. Thats an abuse of taxpayer dollars, Matt Valenti told the councils budget committee. Thats an abuse of kids. Thats an abuse of the truth. Valenti claims the Junior Theater board tried to hide incidents of sexual and physical abuse at the performing arts organization, a training ground for aspiring actors and backstage technicians since 1948. Valenti organized a detailed presentation with multiple speakers -- including his daughter and wife -- and visual exhibits at Tuesdays council budget committee meeting. He repeated his long-standing allegation that the Junior Theaters board had tried to protect Executive Director Jimmy Saba, who allegedly grabbed and shook a student. Valenti also told councilmembers that theater board members failed to heed warnings that an instructor had an illegal sexual relationship with a teenage drama student. Other critics echoed those allegations. How can an organization thats so obviously and willfully derelict in their duty to protect the care and safety of these kids be allowed to continue to do so? asked Shaun Evans, who formerly worked for another local youth theater program. The Junior Theater board has repeatedly and forcefully denied Valentis allegations. This is an ongoing battle led by a disgruntled former family that we have been dealing with since 2016, said Carla Corder, the Junior Theaters communications director. San Diego Junior Theater is a safe place for children. Corder told NBC 7 that the incident of alleged sexual misconduct with the teenage girl by former teacher Eric von Metzke was not ignored or covered up. A police report was prompted filed by the (theaters) executive director, and von Metzke was arrested and convicted. The situation was handled swiftly because strong safety standards are already in place. The theaters supporters also deny any attempt to cover-up reports that Executive Director James Saba grabbed and shook a student. They say that the incident was dealt with swiftly and appropriately. Valenti also criticized San Diego City Attorney Mara Elliott, who he claims illegally disclosed evidence related to three ongoing law enforcement investigations of alleged child abuse and crimes at the Junior Theater. Valenti claims Elliott wrongly shared information he gave her with Gil Cabera, a Junior Theater parent whom Valenti says was involved in the cover-up effort. Mr. Valentis allegations against me and my office are baseless, outrageous, and defamatory, Elliott told NBC 7. As a mother and as City Attorney, I take allegations of child abuse very seriously. Cabrera told NBC 7 that Valenti had already sent copies of his complaint to numerous elected officials and that it was a public document when he received it from Elliott. Cabrera added that the Junior Theater board has acted swiftly and appropriately when confronted with allegations of wrongdoing by staff. "My own daughters are in Junior Theater, Cabrera said. I wouldn't send them there unless I thought it was safe. And I certainly would never cover anything up of a dangerous situation of a place that I'm sending my own girls to." But several city council members expressed concern about Valentis comments and said they want more information about his allegations. Councilman Chris Ward cautioned against a rush to judgment but said Valentis allegations could warrant an independent investigation, perhaps by the district attorney or state attorney general. I would maybe like to hear a little bit more about the status of some of these allegations and appropriate response, if necessary," Ward said at Tuesdays meeting. The city council will make decisions about the city budget and funding for Junior Theater by June 15. A DEA narcotics team seized fentanyl and a butane hash oil lab while executing a search warrant Wednesday in Chula Vista. A DEA Narcotics Task Force raided the home on 2nd Avenue just after noon. Investigators found what they believed was fentanyl, and a San Diego County Hazmat team called in for assistance confirmed the substance was the extremely dangerous synthetic opioid. According to the DEA, two milligrams of fentanyl is enough to cause a lethal overdose. The DEA also found a butane hash oil lab inside the home. Hash oil, also known as honey oil, is a concentrated resin extracted from cannabis. Many extraction methods involve butane or ethanol and are extremely dangerous. One person was taken into custody. The DEA did not say if that person owned the home. It was at least the second time a hash oil lab was discovered in the county this week. On Sunday, a hash oil lab sparked an explosion in the garage of a home in Mira Mesa. Three people were injured. The DEA said the two hash oil operations were not connected. No other information was available. Please refresh this page for updates on this story. Details may change as more information becomes available. An Arizona jury will consider dismissing the trial against a man suspected in the death of his girlfriend, a 19-year-old El Cajon woman who was missing for weeks before her body was discovered decomposing in the Arizona desert. Jon-Christopher Clark, 23, is accused of killing and dumping Kiera Bergman's body on a well-traveled rural highway. Bergman was found dead Sept. 3 by a bike rider who spotted her remains near Arizona state Route 85 and Hazen Road in Maricopa County, about 45 minutes away from her apartment. Eight days later, homicide investigators announced that they have developed probable cause to recommend charges of first-degree murder against Bergman's boyfriend. Clark was initially charged with first-degree murder, improper removal of a body and tampering with physical evidence. Clark later requested the case be re-examined due to a misleading testimony presented by the prosecution about his attempt at communications with Bergman after she went missing. A judge granted Clarks request after the State of Arizona admitted that parts of the testimony were factually inaccurate. Now, the jury has until May 17 to decide if the case should continue or be closed based on the evidence provided. Bergman was last seen alive on Aug. 4 leaving her home without her money, purse or car. Bergman sent a text message to her roommate at about 12:45 p.m. that day. It was the last time friends or family had heard from her. Homicide investigators had suspected foul play in Bergman's disappearance. A 15-page probable cause statement filed by the Phoenix Police Department lists a history of domestic disputes that left bruises on Kiera Bergmans body. It also stated a possibility of a pregnancy; a farewell letter typed out on the Clark's phone and evidence of Kieras phone hitting the same WiFi router as the Clark's days after she had been reported missing, according to the documents. She told a co-worker she was possibly pregnant on the day of her disappearance, the document states. Bergmans family told NBC 7 the couple met on Tinder and dated for about a year. Bergman, who was raised in the unincorporated area of El Cajon, had relocated to Phoenix, following Clark, her family said. The couple had a history of domestic disputes, and on at least one occasion prior to her death, Kiera had bruises on her body caused by the defendant, according to the document. Before she died, Kiera told a witness Clark would restrain her when they fought by placing one hand against her upper chest and throat, the document says. On the morning of Kieras disappearance, Aug. 4, Clark drove her to work. Police say she discussed the possibility of being pregnant with a coworker and then texted Clark to pick her up because she was not feeling well. When the couple arrived home, they argued. Just before 1 p.m., Clark texted a friend that Kiera had stormed out of the apartment, so he could pack his belongings and leave. Kieras roommate arrived home and found it unusual that Kiera would have left behind her car and purse, which contained her ID and bank card, according to the probable cause statement. While Kieras roommate was in the shower, she received a text message from Kieras phone stating: Girl my phone is about to die but Im (expletive) done with Jon. I met this guy a couple days ago when I went to the store and I asked him to come pick me up so Im just chilling with him at his house smoking. Ill call you when I get a charger. And make sure Jon leaves! The text message is documented in the statement police submitted to the court. The document says the roommate found it particularly odd because of its length and language. Police say while Kieras roommate was in the shower, several text messages were exchanged between Clark and Kieras phone. The conversation shows Clark asking for permission to use Kieras bank card to withdrawal $500 from her checking account. Kiera had placed just enough money into her account on Aug. 3, 2018 to cover the upcoming rent withdraw from her account and would not have had $500 in her account for removal without defaulting on the rent payment, the probable cause statement says. Police said Clark had a history of accessing Kieras personal accounts like her Facebook, her bank account, withdrawing money using her pin, and sending text messages from her phone. That same afternoon, around 2 p.m., Clark withdrew $500 from Kieras checking account in two withdrawals, the document states. Police accessed data transfer information from a cell phone company showing that Clark was in Kieras apartment again at 7 p.m. that night and then again at 9:55 p.m. The document says police cannot account for Clarks whereabouts between 7 p.m. to 9:55 p.m. on the Saturday Kiera went missing. The following Monday, Clark called police just before 8 a.m. to report her missing. Even though it was two and a half hours before her shift started, Clark told the dispatcher Kiera was going to miss work. I decided to call police, the document says. He also told the dispatcher her friend said she was going to meet up with somebody and chill and smoke. But Kieras roommate told police she never shared this detail with Clark, according to the court documents. Search warrants revealed Clark and Kieras phone accessed the same WiFi router in Kieras apartment when the texts between their phones were exchanged about Clark withdrawing money from her bank account. They also show the text to Kieras roommate, about Kiera going to meet up with someone, came from within their own home. On Aug. 7, a Tuesday and four days after Kiera had gone missing, and while Kieras family begged police for answers about her disappearance, both Clark and Kieras phones were hitting the same WiFi router in an apartment, the search warrants revealed. Police say shortly before the activation on Kieras phone, Clark was having a conversation on Instagram with a friend about the Find my Phone application and how police could use it to find Kiera. On Sept. 3, a biker discovered Kieras body in a remote area off the main roadway for traffic from San Diego along Interstate 8 to Interstate 10 into Phoenix. Police say Clark typed out Instagram posts and letters, such as a farewell letter, on his phone in the Notes section. In one such note, he wrote: So to all Kieras family that still wants to look at me negatively, you better have this same energy when Kiera comes home because we will spend the rest of our lives together and I will never forget the way youre treating me. After Kieras body was discovered, Clark refused to answer any more questions from police without an attorney. Kieras mother has spent the last few weeks in Phoenix searching for answers in her daughters disappearance. She said her daughter had just turned 19 over the summer and she had concerns when Kiera and Clark met on a dating app in November 2017, she said. I pray that this situation opens up a lot of, especially young womens eyes to the dangers that are out there and that you should think twice before you get involved with certain people, said Kiersten Bragg. Editor's Note: This story previously stated Bergman chose to go to Arizona for an employment opportunity and that Clark followed her have been removed. Her family says Bergman followed Clark to Arizona. NBC 7 has changed the story and regrets the error. The man in custody in connection with the deadly shooting at a Poway synagogue and arson at an Escondido mosque faces 109 federal counts, officials announced Thursday. John Timothy Earnest, 19, has pleaded not guilty to multiple criminal counts including murder and attempted murder - both with a hate-crime special circumstance and gun allegations - as well as arson of a house of worship. The first two charges are in connection with the shooting inside Chabad of Poway on April 27, the last day of Passover. Earnest is accused of walking into the crowded synagogue with a rifle and ammo and opening fire. On Thursday, a federal complaint was filed charging Earnest with 109 new criminal counts including 54 counts of obstruction of free exercise of religion and 54 counts of hate crime acts. Thats one count for every person in the synagogue on April 27 including 12 children, U.S. Attorney Robert Brewer said. Each of these counts is death penalty eligible. One member of the congregation was killed and the rabbi and two other people were injured. The complaint states there were 13 children in the synagogue on the day of the shooting. Earnest is also accused of setting fire to the Dar-ul-Arqam mosque in Escondido on March 24 before early morning prayer. In the federal complaint, investigators say that the mosque surveillance video showed a suspect arriving in the same type of vehicle the defendant used on the day of the shooting at the synagogue. Earnest has already been arraigned on criminal charges in San Diego Superior Court but he now faces parallel federal charges. We will not allow our community members to be hunted in their houses of worship where they should feel free and safe to exercise their right to practice their religion, Brewer said. According to the federal complaint, Earnest has been charged with 54 counts obstruction of free exercise of religious beliefs resulting in death and bodily injury and involving attempt to kill, use of a dangerous weapon. He will also face 54 hate crime acts charges and damage to religious real property involving use of a dangerous weapon or fire. He faces one federal charge of damage to religious property by use of fire. Investigators say in the complaint that the defendant made many anti-Semitic and anti-Muslim statements and stated his only regret was that he did not kill more people. The document also describes the rifle used in the synagogue shooting as a Smith & Wesson Model M&P 15 Sports II semi-automatic rifle. Investigators say Earnest bought the firearm from a federally licensed dealer and picked up the rifle on April 26. A new state law that took effect January 1, limits firearm purchases to adults age 21 and older. That legislation includes two exceptions: someone over 18 with a valid hunting license can buy a gun. Law enforcement and active or honorably discharged military members aged 18-20 can also buy weapons. Information available about the suspect indicates he was not a member of the military and has not worked in law enforcement. The San Diego County District Attorney previously indicated, but would not confirm, that Earnest might have a hunting license, NBC 7 Investigates learned that the list of state residents who have hunting and/or fishing licenses in confidential. One of the attorneys handling the federal case did not answer a reporter's question asking if the defendant had a hunting license. There is no allegation that the defendant violated federal law when he acquired the rifle that he used in the violent attack on the synagogue, said U.S. Attorney Shane Harrigan. Officials expect both the federal and state criminal cases to proceed at the same time. Earnest will appear in federal court on the new charges on May 14. Police said the suspect left a message in graffiti in the mosques parking lot. EPD did not reveal what the graffiti said, only noting that it referenced the New Zealand shooting that happened the week before. In a manifesto published just before the Poway synagogue shooting tied to Earnest, the author praised the suspects responsible for the New Zealand mosque and Pittsburgh synagogue shootings and added they were the inspiration for the planned shooting in Poway. The synagogue shooting and the mosque arson were less than 9 miles apart. What to Know Jonathan Harris was found guilty of murdering Christina Carlin-Kraft in her Main Line apartment. Harris had pleaded not guilty despite a taped confession following his arrest last year. During the confession, Harris told police the two got into a fight after she refused to pay for an ounce of cocaine. The jury reached a verdict Thursday in the trial of a man accused of murdering a model inside her Main Line apartment last summer. Jonathan Harris was found guilty in the murder of Christina Carlin-Kraft inside her Ardmore home on Aug. 22. Prior to the verdict, Harris had pleaded not guilty despite a confession following his arrest. During the confession, Harris told police the two got into a fight after she refused to pay for an ounce of cocaine. In addition to murder, Harris was also found guilty of kidnapping, possession of an instrument of a crime, strangulation, robbery, theft and receiving stolen property. Jonathan Harris found guilty in murder of Christina Kraft #breaking @NBCPhiladelphia pic.twitter.com/HGd71nzLu5 Deanna Durante (@deannadurante) May 9, 2019 Officials say the 36-year-old Carlin-Kraft took a ride-hailing service to Philadelphia where she met Harris. The two later returned to her Main Line apartment. According to a statement police obtained during his arrest and shared in court during an earlier hearing, Harris said he was set to sell an ounce of cocaine to Carlin-Kraft for $1,200. After the two drank and had consensual sex, Harris said, Carlin-Kraft refused to pay for the drugs. He described a violent struggle in which Carlin-Kraft hit him with a glass bottle and he slapped her, repeatedly punched her and tied her up when she tried to flee. He gave her a phone when she asked to call her dad, he said, but he started to choke her when she tried to call 911. When she stopped screaming he fled, he said, taking some clothing, taking the cocaine and jumping over the balcony. He told police he thought she was alive when he left. Carlin-Kraft's beaten body was found in her bloodstained bedroom inside her upscale condominium near the popular Suburban Square shopping center after police visited the home to do a wellness check. AP Harris eluded authorities for about a week before getting nabbed while getting off a bus in Pittsburgh in an attempt to leave Pennsylvania, investigators said. Surveillance video and evidence gathered during the investigation led officials to issue a warrant for Harris' arrest. After the guilty verdict Thursday, Harris was heard saying, "I believe justice was served." Investigators said Harris had been released from state prison last July. He has an extensive criminal record including assault, theft and drug charges, according to online records. The Senate intelligence committee has subpoenaed Donald Trump Jr., calling him in to answer questions about his 2017 testimony to the panel as part of its probe into Russian election interference. That's according to two people familiar with the subpoena who discussed it on condition of anonymity. It's the first known subpoena of a member of President Donald Trump's immediate family, and a new sign that the Senate panel is continuing with its own Russia investigation even after the release of special counsel Robert Mueller's report on the same subject. It's unclear if Trump Jr. will comply with the subpoena from the committee, which is chaired by Republican Sen. Richard Burr of North Carolina. A person close to the president's eldest son, who requested anonymity to discuss the matter, said Wednesday that Trump has continued to cooperate by producing documents and answering written questions. The committee had renewed interest in talking to Trump Jr. after Trump's former lawyer, Michael Cohen, testified earlier this year. Cohen told a House committee in February that he had briefed Trump Jr. approximately 10 times about a plan to build a Trump Tower in Moscow before the presidential election. Trump Jr. told the Senate Judiciary Committee in 2017 he was only "peripherally aware" of the proposal. The panel has also investigated a meeting between Trump Jr., other campaign staff and a Russian lawyer. Emails leading up to the meeting promised dirt on Hillary Clinton. Mueller's report, released last month, says Cohen recalled being in Trump's office "when Trump Jr. told his father that a meeting to obtain adverse information about Clinton was going forward." The report notes that Trump Jr. told the Senate Judiciary Committee, however, that he did not inform his father about the emails or the upcoming meeting. Cohen reported to federal prison this week to start a three-year sentence for crimes including tax evasion and campaign finance violations related to hush-money payments made to protect his former boss. A spokeswoman for the committee would not confirm the subpoena. But Maine Sen. Susan Collins, a Republican member of the panel, hinted after Cohen spoke behind closed doors to the Senate intelligence panel that the committee would want to talk to Trump Jr. again. She said senators "clearly need to re-interview some witnesses whose accounts (Cohen) contradicts." The Senate intelligence committee has been investigating Russian election interference and Trump's ties to Russia for the last two years. The panel is expected to try to call in several witnesses as it winds up its investigation over the next several months. Burr told The Associated Press last week that he doesn't expect to have any more public hearings and that he hopes to be finished with the investigation by the end of the year. The subpoena puts Burr at odds with some of his Republican colleagues who want to move on after the release of Mueller's findings. The Mueller report said he could not establish a criminal conspiracy between the Trump campaign and Russia, but he did not reach a conclusion on whether Trump obstructed justice. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell gave a floor speech Tuesday in which he declared "case closed" on the probe. Kentucky Sen. Rand Paul took a shot at Burr after the subpoena was reported, tweeting that "apparently the Republican chair of the Senate Intel Committee didn't get the memo from the Majority Leader that this case was closed." Alan Futerfas, a lawyer for Trump Jr., declined to comment on the subpoena. The subpoena was first reported by Axios. Associated Press writer Eric Tucker contributed to this report. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin has made it official: The administration won't be turning President Donald Trump's tax returns over to the Democratic-controlled House. Mnuchin told Ways and Means Committee Chairman Richard Neal, D-Mass., in a Monday letter that the panel's request "lacks a legitimate legislative purpose" as Supreme Court precedent requires. In making that determination, Mnuchin said he relied on the advice of the Justice Department. He concluded that the Treasury Department is "not authorized to disclose the requested returns and return information." He said the Justice Department will provide a more detailed legal justification soon. The move, which was expected, is sure to set in motion a legal battle over Trump's tax returns. The chief options available to Democrats are to subpoena the IRS for the returns or to file a lawsuit. Last week, Neal promised "we'll be ready" to act soon after Monday's deadline. Treasury's denial came the same day that the House Judiciary panel scheduled a vote for Wednesday on whether to find Attorney General William Barr in contempt of Congress for failing to comply with a subpoena for a full, unredacted copy of special counsel Robert Mueller's report. Fights with other House panels are ongoing. "I will consult with counsel and determine the appropriate response," Neal said in a statement Monday. Neal originally demanded access to Trump's tax returns in early April under a law that says the IRS "shall furnish" the returns of any taxpayer to a handful of top lawmakers, including the chair of the tax-writing Ways and Means Committee. He maintains that the committee is looking into the effectiveness of IRS mandatory audits of tax returns of all sitting presidents, a way to justify his claim that the panel has a potential legislative purpose. Democrats are confident in their legal justification and say Trump is stalling in an attempt to punt the issue past the 2020 election. The White House and the president's attorneys declined to comment on the deadline to turn over Trump's returns. Mnuchin has said Neal's request would potentially weaponize private tax returns for political purposes. Trump has privately made clear he has no intention of turning over the much-coveted records. He is the first president since Watergate to decline to make his tax returns public, often claiming that he would release them if he was not under audit. "What's unprecedented is this secretary refusing to comply with our lawful ... request. What's unprecedented is a Justice Department that again sees its role as being bodyguard to the executive and not the rule of law," said Rep. Bill Pascrell, D-N.J. "What's unprecedented is an entire federal government working in concert to shield a corrupt president from legal accountability." But the president has told those close to him that the attempt to get his returns was an invasion of his privacy and a further example of what he calls the Democrat-led "witch hunt" like Mueller's Russia probe meant to damage him. Trump has repeatedly asked aides as to the status of the House request and has not signaled a willing to cooperate with Democrats, according to a White House official and two Republicans close to the White House. He has linked the effort to the myriad House probes into his administration and has urged his team to stonewall all requests. He also has inquired about the "loyalty" of the top officials at the IRS, according to one of his advisers. Trump has long told confidants that he was under audit and therefore could not release his taxes. But in recent weeks, he has added to the argument, telling advisers that the American people elected him once without seeing his taxes and would do so again, according to the three White House officials and Republicans, who were not authorized to speak publicly about private conversations and spoke on condition of anonymity. A well-known children's entertainer in Northern Virginia is facing child pornography charges. Steven Rossi, of Reston, who is often known by his stage name, "Mr. Knick Knack," was arrested April 30 and posted bail May 2. He is charged with 10 counts of felony possession of child pornography. Following a tip from an internet service provider, detectives found numerous files containing illicit images, authorities said. "We uncovered over 50 images, Special Victims Division Commander Lt. Rex Pagerie said. "Through coordination with the commonwealth attorney, we made charges 10 counts of child pornography. For more than a decade, Rossi, 58, has been regularly entertaining children with his music at Reston Town Center, Tysons Corner and Market Common in Clarendon. He also performed at hundreds of birthday parties, and his press material says Rossi has been featured at two vice-presidential events. Fairfax County Police said a preliminary investigation does not indicate Rossi had contact with any of the children shown in the images. "Was he in contact with any children physically? At this point in the investigation, through everything weve looked at with his electronic devices, theres no indication there was any physical contact with children, but this is still an ongoing investigation," Pagerie said. News4 went to Rossi's home Thursday, but no one answered the door. However, detectives are encouraging anyone who has information to come forward. Anyone who believe their child or family member may have had contact with Rossi is asked to call police at 703-246-7800. Anonymous tips can be submitted online at fairfaxcrimesolvers.org, by calling 1-866-411-TIPS, or by texting "TIP187" plus your message to CRIMES (274637). A second person from the D.C. area has died as the result of the Sri Lanka attacks on Easter Sunday. Chelsea Decaminada worked for the U.S. Department of Commerce and died Saturday, Secretary Wilbur Ross said in a statement. She was a talented International Program Specialist in Sri Lanka on assignment, Ross said. "Chelsea devoted her life to public service, and her dedication and spirit were a model for all of us at Commerce. She served her country with distinction. As we mourn her loss, we must continue to fight terrorism around the world," the statement read. Ross said his prayers are with Decaminada's family. Decaminada graduated from Duke University in 2015, the school said on Instagram. The post said she volunteered with the Peace Corps in Tanzania, spoke French and Swahili fluently and a was member of the Kappa Alpha Theta sorority. The Easter Sunday bombings killed more than 250 people and wounded hundreds at three churches and three hotels. Police have detained 73 suspects for investigations since the bombings. The D.C. community is also mourning the loss of Kieran Shafritz de Zoysa, a fifth grade student at Sidwell Friends School, who was also killed while in Sri Lanka on leave. A Virginia drama teacher accused of illegally filming his au pair now faces child pornography charges. Raphael Schklowsky, the theater director at Herndon High School, went to court Wednesday for a hearing on four misdemeanor counts of unlawful filming and wound up being charged with 20 felony counts of possession of child pornography and one felony account of unlawful filming. He was held without bond. We have a lot of digital evidence in this case and were not done yet, Fairfax County police Maj. Ed OCarroll said. Detectives found more than 3,500 videos including some images showing child pornography, police said. This case is heartbreaking, OCarroll said. It was a member of our community that we trusted. Police first arrested Schklowsky, 36, in early April. They said he hid cameras in the au pairs room in the Reston home where he lives with his wife and two children. The au pair sent police a photo, and they went to the house with a search warrant. Detectives said they found one of the recording devices inside an air vent in the au pairs bedroom. They seized a long list of electronics, including something called a smoke detector camera. He was in a position of trust, OCarroll said. He was involved with the youth in our community. Nothing that weve seen ties him into his role as a public educator. In a letter to parents, Herndon Highs principal wrote, Today, Fairfax County Police announced additional criminal charges filed against drama teacher, Mr. Schklowsky. The additional charges are unrelated to Herndon High School and, as with the previous charges, do not involve any students or staff from our school. Schklowsky has been on leave of absence from Herndon High since his arrest on the illegal filming charges last month. A Virginia man shot a suspected intruder in his home Thursday morning, but it turned out to be someone he knew. The shooting in a townhome on Raina Drive in Centreville was reported about 10: 15 a.m. The emergency dispatcher appeared to be on the phone with the homeowner, while relaying to officers what he did with the weapon. And he put the gun on the kitchen counter, the dispatcher said. The dispatcher said just the homeowner and the victim, a 24-year-old man, were the only people in the townhome. Apparently it was the daughters friend, and he didnt know who it was so he just shot, the dispatcher said. Police did not confirm what relationship the homeowner had with the victim, only saying that they knew each other. Officers immediately began rendering aid, and he was transported with non-life-threatening conditions to a local hospital, Fairfax County police Sgt. James Curry said. The victim is in stable condition. No charges have been filed. Its just a sad thing because I know these people; theyre very good people, neighbor Greg Gardner said. A woman who was arrested after bringing CBD oil into Walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom won't be facing charges, authorities said. Hester Jordan Burkhalter, 69, was arrested on a possession of hashish charge at the Orlando theme park back on April 15, according to an arrest report from the Orange County Sheriff's Office. The report said the oil was discovered when Burkhalter put her purse on a table for inspection. The oil tested positive for THC, the report said. Burkhalter, who the report said lives in Tennessee, was booked into jail and later released on bond. "This was a lawful arrest, as possession of CBD oil is currently a felony under Florida State Statute and Deputies are responsible for enforcing Florida law and Orange County ordinances," the sheriff's office said in a statement. But the state attorney's office decided to drop the charges, Burkhalter told NBC News. What to Know Dr. Marta Elena Farinas, 48, was booked into the Miami-Dade jail Tuesday on manslaughter and other charges A South Florida doctor is facing manslaughter and other charges after one of her patients died of an opioid overdose, authorities said. Dr. Marta Elena Farinas, 48, was booked into the Miami-Dade jail Tuesday on charges of manslaughter, conspiracy to traffic in oxycodone and delivery of oxycodone, records showed. NBC 6 Investigators were there when agents with the Drug Enforcement Administration took Farinas into custody at her office off South Dixie Highway in Palmetto Bay Tuesday. Federal agents escorted the doctor out from her second floor office in handcuffs and transported her to the County Jail, where she was being held on a $100,000 bond Wednesday. Attorney information wasn't available. According to a news release from Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody, the victim was found unresponsive when Monroe County deputies responded to a call in Key Largo back on March 13. Deputies found a prescription bottle of oxycodone on the nightstand next to the victim's bed with a label that indicated Farinas has prescribed the medication a day earlier, officials said. A toxicology report found that the cause of death involved the mixture of alprazolam and oxycodone, authorities said. The victim was a nurse and mother of two. Prosecutors say Dr. Farinas "overprescribed" oxycodone prescriptions for the patient, who had "no legitimate medical purpose" for having the drug. Court documents showed Farinas often prescribed 120 to 180 pills at a time for the patient. Not only did Farinas prescribe high amounts of oxycodone for patients, prosecutors said the doctors patient would then give a portion of the pills back to the doctor to feed her own addiction and to sell to others. A doctor cannot prescribe pain meds for themselves. Court documents showed the patient would communicate with the doctor and ask for pills through text messages. Those texts also appear to show the doctor asking for pills back in return for the prescription. Prosecutors said the doctors boyfriend also overdosed in May of 2018. Police said Farinas had prescribed drugs to her boyfriend and some of his friends. A latest report from the Florida Department of Health shows oxycodone deaths decreased by 16 percent from 2016 to 2017. In 2017, 1,282 people died statewide due to an oxycodone related death. Many of those were found to have a mixture of drugs in their systems. In 2017, 197 people died in Miami Dade, Broward and Monroe Counties. Farinas' arrest took place after a year-long investigation between the DEA, the Monroe County Sheriffs Office and Miami-Dade Police. A federal appeals court ruled Tuesday that the Trump administration can make asylum seekers wait in Mexico for immigration court hearings while the policy is challenged in court, handing the president a major victory, even if it only proves temporary. The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals a frequent target of the president's complaints reversed a decision by a San Francisco judge that would have prevented asylum seekers from being returned to Mexico during the legal challenge. The case must still be considered on its merits and could end up at the Supreme Court. But allowing the policy to remain in effect in the meantime lets the administration carry out an unprecedented change to U.S. asylum practices. "Big Court win at our Southern Border! We are getting there - and Wall is being built!" Trump tweeted Wednesday morning. The administration has said it plans to rapidly expand the policy across the border, which would have far-reaching consequences for asylum seekers and Mexican border cities that host them while their cases wind through clogged U.S. immigration courts. Cases can take several years to decide. The policy was challenged by 11 Central Americans and advocacy groups that argued it jeopardized asylum seekers by forcing them to stay in Mexico, where crime and drug violence are prevalent. U.S. District Court Judge Richard Seeborg agreed April 8 and said the policy should be halted because it failed to evaluate the dangers migrants faced in Mexico. The administration introduced its "Migrant Protection Protocols" policy on Jan. 29 in San Diego and later expanded it to Calexico, California, and El Paso, Texas. Under the policy, asylum seekers report to a border crossing in the morning. The U.S. government provides transportation to immigration court and returns them to the border after the hearing. The U.S. has returned 3,267 Central American asylum seekers through three border cities, Mexico's immigration agency said Monday. The administration briefly halted the policy after Seeborg's ruling but resumed on April 16, sending 673 people to Tijuana from San Diego since then, 298 to Mexicali from Calexico and 967 to Ciudad Juarez from El Paso. The policy was introduced to deal with a growing number of asylum-seeking families from Guatemala, Honduras and El Salvador arriving at the U.S. border with Mexico. Under a court order, children generally cannot be detained more than 20 days, which has led to widespread releases of families almost immediately after they are stopped by authorities. The January launch followed months of delicate talks between senior U.S. and Mexican officials that culminated in dual announcements after a meeting in November in Houston. Both sides characterized it as a unilateral move by the Trump administration and Mexican officials have made clear that they do not endorse the policy. The three-judge appeals court panel cited Mexico's position to reject the argument that asylum seekers were at risk. The judges said the "likelihood of harm is reduced somewhat by the Mexican government's commitment to honor its international law obligations and to grant humanitarian status and work permits to individuals returned under the (Migrant Protection Protocols)." In fact, Mexico said Dec. 20 that it would allow foreigners to apply for a work permit, not necessarily get one. Judge Diarmuid O'Scannlain, who was appointed by President Ronald Regan, offered the strongest backing for the administration's position. Judges William Fletcher, an appointee of Bill Clinton, and Paul Watford, who was named by Barack Obama, were more critical. The American Civil Liberties Union, Southern Poverty Law Center and Center for Gender & Refugee Studies sued over the policy. Omar Jadwat, director of the ACLU's Immigrants' Rights Project, said remarks by two of the three judges give reason to believe that the policy will eventually be halted but also raised concern about the impact of Tuesday's decision. "Asylum seekers are being put at serious risk of harm every day that the forced return policy continues," he said. Justice and Homeland Security Department officials did not immediately respond to requests for comment late Tuesday, and neither did Mexico's Foreign Relations Secretary officials. Mexicans and children who travel alone are exempt from the policy. The U.S. decision to surge additional military forces into the Middle East was based in part on intelligence that the Iranian regime has told some of its proxy forces and surrogates that they can now go after American military personnel and assets in the region, according to three U.S. officials familiar with the intelligence. The intelligence shows that an Iranian official discussed activating Iranian-backed groups to target Americans, but did not mention targeting the militaries of other nations, the officials said. Among the specific threats the U.S. military is now tracking, officials say, are possible missile attacks by Iranian dhows, or small ships, in the Persian Gulf; attacks in Iraq by Iranian-trained Shiite militia groups; and attacks against U.S. ships by the Houthi rebels in Yemen. The U.S. has accused Iran of moving missiles and missile components through the region's waterways for years, shipping missiles to the Houthis in Yemen and others. And Shiite militia groups like Baghdad Katib Hezbollah have been in Iraq for years, acting essentially as sleeper cells. What is new and what has alarmed U.S. military officials, sources say, is the call to awaken and activate these existing threats. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement hopes to remove a Massachusetts man charged with the murder of his wife. Forty-eight-year-old Ilton Rodrigues was ordered held without bail when he was arraigned from his hospital room Monday. He is accused of stabbing his wife, 43-year-old Telma Bras, to death Friday night at the couple's Stoughton home. According to ICE, Rodrigues is a Brazilian citizen. "ICE will seek his removal pending the outcome of the criminal charges he faces," a spokesperson for the agency said. Rodrigues entered a plea of not guilty Monday. According to the Norfolk County District Attorney's Office, Rodrigues allegedly stabbed his wife before trying to take his own life. The couple's 17-year-old daughter called a family member during the incident, who then called police. Assistant District Attorney Jennifer Blair said when police arrived at the couple's Bennett Drive apartment at about 11:30 p.m., a knife was still protruding from his body. Stoughton Police Chief Donna McNamara called the scene "extremely violent." Authorities said neither the couple's teenage daughter nor their 7-year-old son were hurt. Rodrigues was taken to Boston Medical Center for treatment of his injuries, where he underwent surgery overnight and remains in police custody. The investigation is being handled by Stoughton police and Massachusetts State Police detectives assigned to the Norfolk District Attorney's Office. Rodrigues is due in Stoughton District Court June 11. He is represented by attorney Joseph Krowski. Maine is the only New England state with no restrictions on conversion therapy for minors. But a bill banning the practice, defined as someone trying to change someone elses sexuality, has now cleared the state's legislature. On Thursday, the ban passed Maine's senate unanimously and is now on its way to Democratic Gov. Janet Mills for her signature. Mills tweeted a short time later that she would sign the proposal into law. Her approval all but ends a yearslong battle fought by LGBT advocates to push a ban through the legislature. A previous effort in 2018 came to an abrupt end in 2018 when then-Gov. Paul LePage vetoed a similar proposed ban that got the legislature's approval. "It's a long time coming. We should've done it many, many years ago," said state Sen. Justin Chenette, an openly gay lawmaker and one of the ban's co-sponsors. Specifically , Maine's proposed ban will prohibit doctors, psychologists, guidance counselors, pastoral counselors and select others from trying to change someone's sexual orientation or gender identity. It does have some exceptions, like if someone is assisting a person who is already transitioning gender. Democrats in Maine's senate say there was a lot of bipartisan support for the ban's final language. "I think there's just a growing understanding that this is child abuse and that just like the other New England states, we needed to take a strong statement as a state to ban the practice," said state Sen. Heather Sanborn, a Portland Democrat. A spokeswoman for Republican senators said they were not ready to comment on Thursday. The ban will go through a few final procedural measures before going to Mills, but lawmakers say it will essentially land on her desk in the same form it is now. A New Hampshire man with "terminal cognitive and physical health issues" is accused in the shooting death of his wife. Police responded to a 911 call Tueaday afternoon at 553 Maple St. in Newport. Inside, officers found 75-year-old Margaret "Peggy" Clarke dead from a gunshot wound to the chest. Her death was ruled a homicide. Thursday, Attorney General Gordon MacDonald announced that Clarke's husband, 77-year-old George "Graham" Clarke, had been identified as the alleged shooter. Authorities said Clarke has dementia and other health issues. He is currently at a medical facility. MacDonald said criminal charges are not being brought against Clarke at this time because of concerns about his legal competency. New Hampshire's Supreme Court has reversed a judge's decision requiring prosecutors to provide a photo lineup for a defendant in a trespassing case. The defendant in the Lebanon case said requiring the alleged victim to attend a pretrial deposition and identify a suspect from photos would ensure a fair trial. Prosecutors would supply booking photos, from which the defense would create a lineup for the alleged victim to choose from. Prosecutors objected to having to provide the photos. The judge found the defendant's request was "neither unduly burdensome nor beyond the responsibility the state has." Prosecutors asked the state supreme court for a review. The supreme court on Thursday said the judge had no authority to require the state to produce the photos for the defendant. Jurors in the gruesome beheading trial of a Massachusetts teenager will begin deliberating the case next week following a week of shocking new details revealed by several witnesses. Both the prosecution and defense rested in the Mathew Borges trial Thursday afternoon. The jury will begin deliberating next week after closing arguments which are scheduled for Monday morning. Borges, 18, is accused of stabbing classmate Lee Manuel Viloria-Paulino nearly 80 times and decapitating his body near the Merrimack River. The defendant was 15 at the time of the killing but is being tried as an adult for the first-degree murder of the 16-year-old Viloria-Paulino. Viloria-Paulino's headless body was found on Dec. 1, 2016 by a man walking his dog, authorities said. His head was found floating nearby in a bag that was weighted down by rocks. A medical examiner on Monday said the victim's body was stabbed a total of 76 times. Dozens of those stabbings appear to have happened after Viloria-Paulino was already dead. The two teens were classmates and sophomores at Lawrence High School, according to officials. Prosecutors said the killing was fueled by jealousy. Witnesses who were involved in a burglary at the victim's home the night of his murder testified that Borged confessed to the gruesome crime in a phone call. In audio played for jurors, the suspect could be heard telling Officer John Heggarty that he and the victim went to the Merrimack River to smoke marijuana on the day Viloria-Paulino went missing. Angel Betancourt, one of the four who allegedly broke into the victim's home and stole items, testified that after they completed the theft, the group got a call from Borges who told them, "My hands are bloody. He came at me the wrong way so I had to do what I had to do." The defense has argued that Borges was only guilty of being involved in the break-in and nothing more. They said there is no evidence he killed Viloria-Paulino. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 10) Motorcycle taxis are now legally authorized to operate in the country for a six-month test run beginning the first week of June. After several months of public clamor, motorcycle riders who are part of ride-hailing company Angkas can start picking up passengers again without fear of apprehension. Transportation officials have given the green light to implement the pilot run of motorcycle taxis in Metro Manila and Cebu City from June until the end of the year. This is welcome news to over 27,000 motorcycle units under Angkas, whose operations have been stopped a number of times since 2017. However, the implementation is just a test run for six months to aid legislators as they finalize pertinent bills on motorcycle taxis. Mariin naming binabalaan ang mga ride-hailing service na sumunod sa safety requirements sa kanilang operasyon. Huwag ninyong sayangin ang tiwalang ipinagkaloob namin sa inyo (We are giving ride-hailing services stern warning to follow safety requirements in their operations. They should not waste the trust that we have given them.) Transportation Secretary Art Tugade said in a statement. Angkas welcomed the Transportation Department's decision. "We are very happy that Secretary Tugade is looking into this...We will definitely provide all the necessary updates on the application and also on the information campaign to the public," said George Royeca, Angkas regulatory and public affairs head. The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board shut down Angkas in November 2017, saying the company has no business permit. The agency also maintained motorcycles are not among the type of vehicles which may be considered for public transport under the countrys Land Transportation Code. Angkas challenged transport regulators order before the Mandaluyong Regional Trial Court, which later issued a preliminary injunction against the government shutdown. But just a couple of months after Angkas resumed operations, the Supreme Court issued in December last year a temporary restraining order against the Mandaluyong court decision, which meant transport regulators can again apprehend violating motorcycle units. Fare Matrix The flag down rate for Metro Manila motorcycle taxis is 50. An additional 10 to 15 per kilometer is charged for succeeding distances. Motorcycle units in Metro Manila are also entitled to dynamic pricing with 1.5x surge cap. For ride-hailing motorcycles in Cebu, fares start at 20 for the first kilometer. Destinations beyond that are charged 16 to 20 per kilometer. Mark de Leon, DOTr Undersecretary for Road Transport, said the fare matrix is based on Angkas existing rates but will also be studied during the pilot run. We will evaluate if these fare rates are already just or if they can be lowered or adjusted to rates different from what is being proposed by Angkas, he told CNN Philippines' New Day. Stringent Safety Measures Motorcycle taxis are mandated to follow safety rules. Both riders and passengers should wear reflectorized helmets. Riders are also required to don a reflectorized vest and body strap or belt that passengers can hold on to during the trip. They should also wear their ID and proper uniform bearing the motorcycle taxi brand. The maximum allowable speed is 60 kilometers per hour. Ride-hailing companies are also required to submit monthly data on passenger complaints and road crashes involving their motorbikes. The technical working group under the DOTr will monitor the road crashes and violations through an online monitoring system with Angkas, De Leon added. After the expiration of the six-month pilot implementation period, all the results and data collected should then be the subject of a study in order to determine whether or not motorcycle taxis could be considered as an alternative mode of transportation, a DOTr memorandum explains. However, the pilot run can be terminated before the six-month period expires, De Leon said, if there have been too many casualties that resulted from the implementation. While the pilot run covers all motorcycle taxis, Angkas is, so far, the only motorcycle ride-hailing company operating in the Philippine market. What to Know Central American families have reached the border in growing numbers since October, creating what is widely considered a humanitarian crisis Each day at each crossing, U.S. Customs and Border Protection officials alert Mexican counterparts how many people they will take A federal lawsuit says the administration is violating U.S. and international law by refusing to take asylum seekers when they arrive For thousands of asylum seekers, there are many ways to wait and wait, and wait at the threshold of the United States. Parents and children sleep in tents next to bridges leading to Texas for weeks on end, desperately hoping their names and numbers are called so they can be let in. Some immigrants complain of shakedowns and kidnappings by gangs and corrupt officials, particularly across the border in Texas. Others have paid to jump to the front of the line; the rest, determined to enter the country legally, wait patiently, even if it takes months. This is what has happened since the Trump administration placed asylum in a chokehold. The Associated Press visited eight cities along the U.S.-Mexico border and found 13,000 immigrants on waiting lists to get into the country exposed to haphazard and often-dubious arrangements that vary sharply. The lines began to swell in the last year when the administration limited the number of asylum cases it accepts each day at the main border crossings, leaving it to Mexican agencies, volunteers, nonprofit organizations and immigrants themselves to manage the lines. Central American families have reached the border in growing numbers since October, creating what is widely considered a humanitarian crisis. In some cities, days pass without anyone being processed, the AP found. In San Diego, up to 80 are handled each day, but the line in Tijuana, across the border, is the longest anywhere about 4,800 people. Each day at each crossing, U.S. Customs and Border Protection officials alert Mexican counterparts how many people they will take a system that U.S. authorities call metering. Then the keeper of the list lets immigrants know who can go into the U.S. for asylum interviews. It is impossible to predict how many. Migrants pick their route based on a best guess of which city will offer the fastest crossing, and which will offer the safest stay in the meantime. A federal lawsuit says the administration is violating U.S. and international law by refusing to take asylum seekers when they show up at a crossing, even temporarily. U.S. authorities argue that processing capacity dictates how many people it can handle. "It's not turning people away, it's asking them to wait," then-Customs and Border Protection Commissioner and current acting Homeland Security Secretary Kevin McAleenan said in October. But some feel they cannot. They try to enter illegally, sometimes with tragic consequences. A Honduran family, arriving at Piedras Negras, Mexico, decided the line was too long. Crossing the Rio Grande, they were swept away; a father and three children, including a baby, are believed to have died. CIUDAD JUAREZ: Black ink, wristbands, and thousands in line A government employee emerges from an office building around 9 a.m. and stands atop a short stairway. A large group of Cubans push forward, eager to learn about their progress in line. "Move back, move back!" she says. Another official shouts the numbers of asylum seekers at the top of the list. "7,449!" he yells, and a man steps forward with identification to join 19 others who will be escorted across a bridge to El Paso, Texas. The sprawling industrial city began its waiting list in October when many Cuban asylum seekers began sleeping on the narrow sidewalk of a busy international bridge. Mexican authorities decided they had to go. Casa del Migrante, the city's largest migrant shelter, is located about a half-hour drive from the bridge. It began registering asylum seekers and writing numbers on their arms with black ink. After widespread criticism, migrants were given numbers on plastic wristbands instead. Some sold wristbands to people eager to skip the line or gave them to others when they decided to cross illegally, said Enrique Valenzuela, executive secretary of Chihuahua state's Migrant Services Center. Others made fake bracelets to cut in line. Arguments would erupt when two people showed up with the same number. "Opportunists made a business out of it," he said. "It was easy to make money from it." In late March, the state government took over from the shelter, taking custody of four notebooks with handwritten names paired with numbers, up to No. 10,221. Names and photos are now entered into a computer; the government created a closed Facebook group that is updated twice a day, so asylum seekers can check how many people the U.S. will take that day. There are currently about 4,500 names on the list. REYNOSA: 'River owners' run the show The challenges faced by asylum seekers waiting in Reynosa, across from McAllen, Texas, are compounded by rampant violence. There were 1,472 murders recorded last year in the state of Tamaulipas, where Reynosa is located. Gunfights between cartels and police occur daily, and the U.S. State Department has warned Americans not to travel there. Few Americans are willing to visit the shelter that maintains the list of asylum seekers, or the other churches and hotels where asylum seekers wait. Jennifer Harbury, a longtime human rights advocate based in Texas, spoke recently to a large group of asylum seekers at the Senda de Vida shelter and met with people who had been kidnapped by cartels. "The owners of the river, you know who they are," Harbury said. Several nodded. Rather than stopping the cartels, Harbury alleges, some Mexican government officials shake down migrants. She said she's spoken to two people who were detained in the basement of a Mexican government office by security who demanded ransom payments to release them. One woman from Central America told the AP that she and her two children had been smuggled from southern Mexico to the Rio Grande for $3,000. But when they arrived in Reynosa, she says, the coyote demanded $1,000 more. She was held with her 2-year-old son in one room of a house, and her 4-year-old son was detained in another. The smuggler released them after six days after she didn't produce the extra money and left them at the international bridge. They were told to say they had been robbed and had nowhere to go. A man on the street gave her a few pesos for a taxi to Senda de Vida. She and her children now wait with hundreds of others, some of whom have been there since January. "I'm still afraid," said the woman, who spoke on condition of anonymity because she fears retribution from the smugglers. "I'm afraid they will see me, they will recognize me, and they will grab me." Reynosa's list, handled by shelter director Hector Silva, has 370 people. Standing next to Harbury, Silva told asylum seekers that he wanted Senda de Vida to be a refuge from the organized crime and bribery outside its white concrete walls. "There is no corruption in this house," he said. PIEDRAS NEGRAS, MEXICO: The WhatsApp List When asylum seekers arrive at the Frontera Digna migrant shelter in Piedras Negras, they are given a phone number to text on the messaging service WhatsApp. They're supposed to send the names and photos of everyone in their group. Then they're told to wait. Managing the list is a local restaurateur named Hector Menchaca, who also serves as the local government's liaison to U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Sitting in the dark lobby of his Piedras Negras steakhouse, Menchaca said U.S. officials call him daily to tell him how many people they would accept at one of the bridges heading to Eagle Pass, Texas. He then sees who's at the top of the list and sends them a WhatsApp message. About 360 people are on the list, with another 200 people waiting to join it because the government has closed it to new entrants for the time being, Menchaca said. "I tell everyone: Live with your telephone. Keep it in your hand," he said. "If I call you and you don't answer, I'm not going to search for where you are." The list includes people from Central America, Mexico, Brazil, and countries an ocean away like Cameroon. They aren't told how close to the top they are, only that they might wait for two or three months. Bernardo Blanco Romero said he left Mexico's southern state of Guerrero because of drug cartel violence and a lack of jobs and chose to go Piedras Negras because it is considered safer than other cities on the border. "I'm going to wait; I have no other option. I don't have money to return," he said. With him were his wife and four children. Obed Cuellar, a subdirector at the shelter, said a typical family stays two nights and three days before having to seek lodging elsewhere. Churches across the city have opened shelters, and advocates rely on a loose network of boarding houses. But many people say they can't wait among them the four who are believed to have drowned in the Rio Grande last week. Cuellar said he met the father weeks earlier when he and his family were at the shelter and decided to cross the river. Cuellar tried to persuade the family not to go. "He said, 'God will help me to cross the river with the kids,'" he said. The Border Patrol later rescued four people from the river, including two children, and recovered the body of a baby. The missing father and two children have not been found and are presumed dead. NOGALES: A family affair Ninoska Marisol Martinez Ortiz cradles her 15-month-old baby in her arms, occasionally wiping the child's runny nose, as she describes the time she has spent in Nogales. She had spent 45 days on the Mexican border town's wait list, which has about 1,000 names on it. She was among several dozen immigrants, mostly from Central America and Mexico, who gathered at a chapel adorned with images of Our Lady of Guadalupe. "How many people have been here 30 days?" a reporter asks. About half of the hands go up. Sheyla Matamoros has been there 48 days. Carlos Quintero doesn't know how long his wait has been. Brenda Nieblas, whose family manages another local shelter, keeps the list of new arrivals. Before she was involved, Nieblas says hundreds of migrants would wait at the border crossing and many would try to rush in when U.S. authorities called people for processing. Now, she keeps track of names and assigns numbers. Most days, only a few migrants are admitted. Some days, no one gets in. When they first arrive, some of the migrants are sent to a Red Cross first aid station like the mother whose 3-year-old wouldn't stop crying. A medical staffer found no infection but said she was dehydrated from the journey north. They are then connected with Nieblas, who puts them on the list, assigns them to a shelter in Nogales and notifies them when their time comes. SAN LUIS RIO COLORADO: 'There really is no schedule' Darwin Mora manages two giant white boards with hundreds of numbers in black marker, each one representing a family or single adult. When CBP tells Mexican authorities how many people it wants, it falls to Mora to have them ready. Each family that crosses or cancels is marked with an X. Mora, a towering figure and fast talker who prides himself on attention to detail, says CBP can call any day from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. During those hours, he never strays far from the boards under a green canopy, which are divided in neat columns and rows. In the lower left corner of each box is a number to represent the number of people in the family. "There really is no schedule," he said. "It would be so good if we had a fixed schedule but, in reality, it could be at 7 at night, 3 in the afternoon. There is no regular number. 'Hey, I need a group of two. I need a group of five.' Nothing is the same." After a large encampment of asylum seekers was shut down earlier this year with more than 200 families lined up under tarps on a strip of dirt and breathing exhaust fumes from cars Mora enforces a new rule that limits camping on the border to six tarps and 15 families. Those slots are for families about to be called, allowing them to be ready on a moment's notice. There are about 900 people on the list, assuming three people per family. Recent arrivals are expected to wait at least five months. Isabel Mola, 29, fled an abusive marriage in central Mexico two months ago with her three sons, ages 8, 5 and 1. A friend told her San Luis Rio Colorado was safe and the waits to cross the border were tolerable. She is No. 306 on the white board and doesn't know how long she will be there. "Some days they take people, then they don't, then it's every third day," she said after preparing a large pot of vegetable soup for at the migrant shelter for women and children where she stays. Mora knows his ownership of the list is temporary. The Venezuelan immigrant is waiting with his wife and two sons and hopes to settle with family in Phoenix after claiming asylum. Mora is training a Mexican asylum seeker to manage the list when his number, 181, is called. "When the time comes for me to cross, he knows everything," Mora said of his successor. "I have total faith in him. You have to pick the right replacement because the list is a big, big, big responsibility." TIJUANA and MEXICALI: A notebook, and waiting for the phone call Tijuana is most experienced with a numbering system, having established one in 2016 when Haitians had to wait in Mexico for a chance at refuge in the United States. Its waiting list stands at about 4,800. Grupos Beta, a unit of Mexico's immigration agency that provides food, transportation and aid to migrants, keeps guard at night over tattered notebooks and hands them over to volunteers during the day to register new arrivals. On a recent Saturday, there were nearly 100 people in line to get a spot in the notebook almost exclusively Cameroonians who arrived the previous day. A volunteer with a bullhorn then ran through 110 numbers to fill 70 slots to cross that day. In nearby Mexicali, Grupos Beta employees in bright orange shirts call out those whose numbers are up. Mexicali a city of about 1 million across from Calexico, California has about 800 names on its list. Two migrant shelter managers said they get a day's notice of the next numbers to be called, but Heidy Lainez and her 3-year-old son, Gonzalo, got only a half-hour warning that their slots 2,155 and 2,166 were up. She had waited a month. "You have to have your suitcase packed," said Lainez, 29, of Honduras. "If you're not ready, you lose your turn. You always have to have your telephone in reach." MATAMOROS: A long wait and 'no space' for families At the foot of the bridge connecting Matamoros, Mexico, to Brownsville, Texas, more than 20 sheets of paper have been taped to a large board with the typewritten names of more than 800 people. The migrants waiting in Matamoros check the board daily to see whose names have been crossed off with a black marker. Some of the names have a line next to them with the word "rio," Spanish for river, denoting that they were believed to have crossed the Rio Grande to enter the U.S. without authorization. Around 50 people can sleep in tents closest to the bridge if they are at the top of the list. The rest stay in nearby hotels, boarding rooms, or shelters. Many who had questions about the list relied on Cynthia Mayrena, a 29-year-old woman from Nicaragua who had been on the list since January with her husband and 4-year-old son. She said she sees single adults and teenagers pass through far more quickly than families. "Sometimes 20 days go by without a single one passing," she said. "They say there's no space there for families." There are frequent allegations that Mexican government officials or security agents demand bribes to let people join the list or move up the list. Several migrants waiting at the bridge said they had not been solicited for a bribe, and that the list was seemingly run fairly, but very slowly. The people who wait in the tents by the bridge have formed their own enclosed community. On a recent weekday morning, a woman from Honduras braided the hair of a woman from Venezuela. A child swung his hips with a hula hoop. Whistles and cheers went up when volunteers from a group called Team Brownsville arrived with a breakfast of milk, cereal, and boiled eggs. But the encampment is a harsh place, especially in temperatures that already hit 90 degrees Fahrenheit (32 degrees Celsius) a month before summer starts. Some people scrape together 4 Mexican pesos about 25 U.S. cents to use the bathroom on the international bridge, and then come back. One man climbed into the Rio Grande to bathe. The country he was waiting to enter was a short swim away, but he stayed close to the bank on the Mexican side. And then he went back toward the tents. To wait. Associated Press writer Cedar Attanasio contributed to this report. The Maine Senate is getting behind a push to increase oversight of for-profit colleges in the state. Democratic Sen. Eloise Vitelli of Arrowsic says her proposal would require an annual review of for-profit colleges by the state education commissioner. The commissioner would seek to make sure the colleges are demonstrating adequate educational standards. The Senate approved the bill in an initial vote on Tuesday. The proposal would give the education commissioner the ability to terminate the degree-granting authority of the college if they find the institution is not up to standards. The proposal faces further votes in the House and Senate. Vitelli says it would increase levels of transparency and accountability at for-profit colleges. The cast of Norwich Theatre's pantomime Dick Whittington and his Cat attended a Christmas Carol concert at St Peter Mancroft Church on Thursday December 23 to spread festive cheer and the Christmas message. The cast of Norwich Theatre's pantomime Dick Whittington and his Cat attended a Christmas Carol concert at St Peter Mancroft Church on Thursday December 23 to spread festive cheer and the Christmas message. Norwich church hosts Watch Night service See in the New Year with worship! A Norwich church is holding a Watch Night service on December 31 starting at 22.45. Read more Bishop's Christmas refugee message In his Christmas message the Bishop of Norwich the Rt Rev Graham Usher, says at Christmas we look back to the story of someone who soon after his birth, became a refugee, we look back to a story to help navigate our future. Read more Ed Sheeran and LadBaby boost Waveney foodbank Pop superstar Ed Sheeran and Christmas sausage roll song group LadBaby paid a surprise visit to Waveney Foodbank near Eye earlier today. Read more Dilham musician recalls Josephs letter home What might Joseph had written if he had sent a letter home from his experiences during that first Christmas time? Read more The true gifts of Christmas Regular columnist Ruth Lilley reflects on the gifts which God gave us at that first Christmas, and continues to make freely available to us. Read more An Advent reflection from Bishop Alan Hopes In his Advent Reflection, the Bishop of East Anglia, the Rt Rev Alan Hopes says: "God is not distant, he is very close to us. In fact, in Jesus, God is one of us. Read more YMCA Norfolk needs a Senior Wellbeing Engagement Worker YMCA Norfolk is looking for a Senior Wellbeing Engagement Worker, to build relationships of trust with vulnerable and marginalised youth people within the community. Read more Norwich Foodbank needs an Administrator Norwich Foodbank is looking for an Administrator to help ensure the Christian charity can continue to serve people in food crisis. Read more Looking beyond the Nativity story Andrew Frere Smith reminds us of the hardships that were faced by the family of baby Jesus at that first Christmas. Read more Norwich churches offered Christmas food hampers Christian youth project ENYP is offering Norwich churches the chance to join its successful food poverty initiative and receive Christmas food hampers to give out. Read more Salvation Army gifts bring joy to Norwich children Salvation Army volunteers in Norwich have packed a record number of Tins and Toys boxes for their Christmas giveaway this year. Read more Covid stops Yarmouth Minster Christmas lunch Fears over the increasing spread of Covid 19 have caused the Open Christmas event at Great Yarmouth Minster on Christmas Day to be cancelled this year, but those who would have attended will be receiving goodie bags instead. Read more Norwich church requires an Administrator Holy Trinity church in Norwich wants to appoint an Administrator to help it introduce the gospel of Jesus Christ to the people of Norwich. Read more Acle churches unite for carols The churches in Acle held their annual carol concert at the Methodist Church last Sunday, and were evidently visited by the Man in Red! Read more Norwich church giving out 150 food hampers Gateway Vineyard church in Norwich is giving 150 food hampers to individuals and families across the city as part of the Love Christmas initiative. Read more Norwich church invite to sing on Saturday On Saturday December 18, Norwich's oldest chapel close to the city is holding a 'sing on Saturday' at 3pm. There is plenty of space inside to join together to sing some well-known hymns. Read more Norwich church gives city a Wonder-ful show Soul Churchs free Christmas production, The Wonder, was back bigger and better than ever this year, welcoming thousands of people from Norwich and beyond, to enjoy this Christmas extravaganza. Read more Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 9) The Department of Trade and Industry on Thursday asked the Las Pinas City government to suspend the operations of a food park which allegedly only serves Chinese customers. The department in a statement said it conducted a surprise inspection of China Food City in Las Pinas. Trade Secretary Ramon Lopez, who led the inspection, asked the local government to evaluate if the business permit of the food hub covers all 30 food stalls in the complex. Lopez then found that only one establishment had a visible business license and permit. He also found the receipts were issued in Chinese, which meant they did not have proper business permits. The DTI said no sanitation permits were on display. It also said no proper waste disposal and treatment facilities were found, since food waste went directly to canals and adjacent creeks. The department added it saw about five foreign-looking personnel running through the backdoor, which to them suggested the employees did not have proper work permits. Lopez then ordered Las Pinas Business Permits and Licensing Office Chief Wilfredo Gaerlan to issue a Suspension of Operations order pending the correction of the necessary permits and until the food park operators comply with Philippine laws. The inspection comes after Malacanang on Monday said authorities will probe incidents of some Chinese-run restaurants allegedly refusing Filipino customers. Download an application form for any of the nine categories today Still wondering which category to enter in this years NWN Best in Business Awards? Well wonder no more. Here, we give you the low-down on what the judges will be looking for in each category, to make it easier for you to make that all important decision. Dont worry too much though, because you can always enter every category if you want to. There are nine categories up for grabs, as well as the coveted overall Best in Business Award 2019. The winner of the awards, which recognise commercial excellence throughout West Berkshire, will be announced at a gala dinner at Newbury Racecourse on November 1, 2019. Applications must be returned by June 28, 2019 and you can download an entry form here. But for now, grab a coffee, sit back and have a read through our guide to the awards categories. Independent Retailer Award - sponsored by Jones Robinson What the judges want to see The judges of this award will be looking for the entrepreneurial retailer who has a viable, well thought out retail proposition. It should provide not only an attractive product but also a high degree of customer service and long term profitability. As an independent retailer, the winning business will not be part of a chain or national brand. In addition judges will consider how this business is contributing to the overall success of retailing in the area. Previous winners have included Inn at Home and the Hare and Hounds at Speen. The sponsor Jones Robinson is a Newbury-based estate agent that has helped thousands of people move home since it began more than two decades ago. With more than 60 members of staff, working across five locations, it offers buying, selling, letting and property management services to customers in Berkshire, Hampshire, Wiltshire and Oxfordshire. It is associated with the Association of Residential Letting Agents, the Tenancy Deposit Scheme, and the Deposit Protection Scheme. It is also members of the Property Ombudsman. For more details visit www.jonesrobinson.co.uk Small Business Award sponsored by PBA Accountants What the judges want to see In assessing this category, judges will be looking at the breadth of accomplishments and strategies that make the enterprise a success in terms of its profitability and its profile within the county and its marketplace. The category is open to those with a turnover under 1million and therefore, judges will be keen to investigate the scope of the businesss achievements since its launch, its progress and its planning for the future. Aspects that will be scrutinised include staff development, products and services and their continual review, profitability, environmental undertakings, community awareness and use of marketing. Previous winners have included The Sushi Maki and Pixelnebula. The sponsor PBA are accountants, but in their own words dont be put off by this. They offer all the things you would expect accountants to offer, such as tax, accounts and audits. But they also like to offer that little bit more. They pride themselves on becoming your business partners. Theyre straight talking and have years of experience in their team. You can find all of that out for yourselves by giving them a call or visiting www.pbaaccountants.co.uk Customer Service Award sponsored by Newbury Racecourse What the judges want to see In this category the judges will be looking for a strong customer service culture that is integral to all aspects of the business operations. Entries should show evidence of this by providing customer feedback and research into customer loyalty. Judges will also want to see how this has a positive impact on the sales and profit of the business. Previous winners include Bluebird Cafe. The sponsor The first recorded racing at Newbury took place in 1805, with Newbury Races an annual two day meeting at Enborne Heath. But Newbury Racecourse itself come into existence 100 years later when Kingsclere trainer, John Porter, proposed a new course at Newbury. The application was finally approved by The Jockey Club when it received the support of King Edward VII. In April 1904 construction began and on September 26th the following year, the first ever races took place. Since then Newbury has played host to a number of legendary winners and now combines heritage with everything a modern sporting and events venue can offer. For more details of upcoming events and racedays click here. Training and Support Award sponsored by Tigers Day Nurseries What the judges want to see This award is given for employers who offer the best training and support for all staff. Judges will want to see evidence of how the training is offered and implemented across the business. The sponsor Tigers Day Nurseries provide high-quality childcare delivered by dedicated teams of professionals for children from three months to five years. It has nurseries in Thatcham, West Berkshire and Swindon, Wiltshire, where they offer convenience, flexibility and peace-of-mind for parents and fun-filled days of learning through play in a stimulating, safe environment for children. All of its qualified staff are rigorously checked, all are first-aiders and all are highly trained to understand and respond to each individual childs development needs and to help them reach their full potential. For more details on Tigers Day Nurseries, click here. Best Employer Award sponsored by The HR Department What the judges want to see In this category judges will be keen to see evidence of how, as an employer, entrants take care of their employees so that they can take care of the business. The sponsor The HR Department offers flexible HR support packages for any business. It can help with recruitment, employment contracts, disciplinary hearings and all the other things a large corporate HR team could provide. The professional and knowledgeable HR team provide a range of services to businesses, from taking on the first employee, to advising on doing redundancies the right way. To find out more visit their website here. Best Use of Marketing Technology Award sponsored by Generate UK What the judges want to see This award is open to business of all sizes, operating in any sector, that can demonstrate how it has developed significantly through the use of marketing and technology. The judges will want to see how a strategy was created, how a business overcame any challenges, how the use of technology played its part, how the strategy was implemented, how it was measured and the results it delivered. This is a new category this year. The sponsor Generate UK provides clients with unique marketing solutions, assets and campaigns that deliver real results. Its staff are dynamic, knowledgeable, experienced and committed to providing customers with the best service available. The business puts clients at the heart of what it does and for the past 10 years has been nurturing creativity and building the skills and processes its needs to be the safe pair of hands that takes your marketing to the next level. You can find out more about what Generate UK could do for your business here. Innovation in Business Award sponsored by HSBC UK What the judges want to see For this award, the judging team will want to find a business which has, over the past 12 months, dramatically and profitably improved its sales/revenue performance through the use of an innovative undertaking. This award is open to new and mature, small and large businesses - whether in a B2C, B2B, retail or service sector. Judges will be particularly impressed by those applications that demonstrate how they have developed a clear strategy and dramatically altered their prospects perhaps through online channels or other, well-considered and contemporary techniques of exposing their brand to the marketplace. The judges will want to see evidence of increases in visitors, orders, enquiries and/or sales; and the return on investment gained. Previous winners have included Amberjack and Corvia ticketer. The sponsor HSBC offers a range of retail, commercial and private banking services in the UK. It has an extensive branch network across the country to support its customers needs. It is part of one of the worlds largest banking and financial services organisations and serves more than 39 million customers through four global businesses retail banking and wealth management; commercial banking; global banking and markets; and global private banking. Its network covers 66 countries and territories in Europe, Asia, the Middle East and Africa, North America and Latin America. You can read more on HSBC here. Charity or Community Award sponsored by Greenham Trust What the judges want to see Organisations not operating for profitable means are encouraged to enter this category as their chance to shine. Judges will be keen to see business models where the aims and objectives set down in infancy have been accomplished, and where future planning and continuous creativity is always part of the business model. Judges will also look carefully at what the not-for-profit has achieved for its audience; how it attracts people to work with and for it; and how it develops staff, members and volunteers. They will also be keen to see evidence of what innovative techniques it has introduced and how well its profile has grown in recent times. While charitable income will of course be assessed, the amount of revenue will not be a deciding factor in the decision process. In the past two years Newbury Soup Kitchen and Dingleys Promise, have both picked up this award. The sponsor The Trusts aim is to promote charitable purposes for the benefit of the inhabitants of Newbury and areas of North Hampshire. Since 1997, more than 42m in funding has been distributed to improve the lives of local people, with nearly 5,000 good causes benefitting. More details on the Trust and if your charity is eligible for support, click here. Regional Event Award sponsored by Parkway Shopping What the judges want to see This category is looking to recognise an event of any description; either taking place for the first time in the past year or one that has been established for some time. The judges will be looking for innovation, organisation and participation. Entries must specify some precise objectives for the event and how they were achieved. Research and feedback from those who attended would strengthen the application. Financial goals can be either directly as a result of the event, such as fundraising for charity, or the impact that the event had on the area, such as local retail or hospitality. Finally the judges would like to understand how this event has enhanced the local community. Last years winner of this category was the Lions Club of Newburys annual fireworks display at Newbury Racecourse. The sponsor Parkway Shopping Newbury, brings more than 475,000 square feet of modern shopping to an historical environment. Parkway offers an exceptional mix of high street retail and unique boutique stores. Anchored by John Lewis at home and Debenhams, Parkway also includes top fashion retailers and boutiques, as well as a host of coffee shops. Parkway Living is a development of 147 stylish and contemporary one, two and three bedroom apartments in the heart of the town of Newbury. For more click here. Best in Business 2019 sponsored by Cobbs Farm Shop and Kitchen What the judges want to see This is the award of awards in the world of West Berkshire and North Hampshire. This accolade will go to the winner of winners picked by the judges from the category winners. Judges will look for a brand or organisation which has achieved great things in the last 12 months. They will assess the companys brand profile within its customer audience, its financial standing, its community relations and its environmental sympathies. Judges will particularly be looking for an organisation that they can be proud to have as an ambassador of working life in the area. Gardner Leader and Amberjack are previous winners of the overall Best in Business award. The sponsor Cobbs Farm Shop & Kitchen formed the foundations of what is now a specialist group of independent farm shops across the country. The Hungerford farm shop boasts a butcher, fishmonger, deli, vineyard, cafe, florist and play barn. Its fully licensed cafe serves breakfast, homemade fresh meals and light bites. At its heart is a 55 acre farm that grows mainly soft fruit in the summer, with some vegetables including squash and pumpkins in the autumn and asparagus and rhubarb in the spring. It offers its ever-popular pick-your-own in the summer months too. The latest addition to the Cobbs family is Cobbs at Englefield; a series of converted cow-sheds. It comprises a farm shop with traditional butchery counter, delicatessen and cafe, which serves food all day. The cafe offers a daily specials board and its popular roast lunch is available every Sunday between 12pm and 3pm. Click here to find out what's on offer at your local Cobbs Farm Shop. Neil Jordans Greta THE pairing of eclectic Irish filmmaker Neil Jordan with Isabelle Huppert, star of 2016s outlandish Elle, seemed a recipe for a potent thriller. Greta, the fruit of this creative partnership, is a study in deceit and obsession, along the lines of Single White Female or Fear; unfortunately, Jordan is at a loss to infuse proceedings with his trademark fabulism and the result is a preposterous, peculiarly forgettable outing from a consummate director. Though it is occasionally redeemed by its leading lady, who capably tosses and twirls her way through what amounts to an extended psychotic breakdown, the film largely outstays its welcome, only finding its feet in the most lacklustre and dreary manner possible. Somewhere in here, theres a perverse meditation on the anomie of the big city, but Greta actually plays out like an extravagantly-coutured throwback to the shabby stalker-horror films of the 90s, high on psychopathic outbursts and low on thematic depth. Waiter Frances (Chloe Grace Moretz) is struggling to come to terms with the loss of her mother, and with the solitude of life in glitzy New York. On a whim, she returns a misplaced handbag to Greta (Huppert), a wealthy widow; bonding over their mutual loneliness, they strike up a quaint odd-couple relationship, which takes a perilous turn with revelations concerning Gretas identity. The synopsis alone should be enough to induce deja vu, but that isnt, in itself, an issue this sort of picture is able to compensate for its riffing on familiar material with compelling character development and inventive plotting. The topsy-turvy Greta, which holds our attention through its first half-hour before getting mired in a swamp of cliches, misses a trick here Moretz and her co-stars play a ludicrous screenplay with straight faces, barrelling their way through a series of contrived, absurd situations. When a demented Greta begins blowing up her phone, Frances fails to throw the thing out; the stalker is alternately portrayed as being unhinged to the point of psychosis and savvy enough to outsmart Frances, the authorities and everybody who comes looking for them. Once again, this would not be a problem were Jordan willing to embrace the trashiness implicit in the whole thing, but Greta is tonally bananas, inhabiting a realm halfway between lunkheaded thriller and dark, offbeat comedy. By the time it goes full slasher flick in the third act, it enters eye-rolling territory, from whence none return. All this is something of a tragedy, because Greta is peppered with glimmers of inspiration, signs that a convoluted build-up is bound to give way any moment and allow the undeniable talents of all involved to shine through; that these never amount to much leaves a foul taste in the mouth. As an actor, Huppert is renowned for dabbling on the quirkier fringes of womankind, but never before has she invested herself in a figure as downright loopy as the protagonist of the title. Such scenes as a surprise visit to Frances workplace allow Huppert to fly her freak flag and its a glorious sight as she darts effortlessly between schoolmarm affability and violent hysteria. Its in its more trailer-friendly sequences that the film comes closest to capitalising upon its potential; even more than Byzantium, his last project, Greta shows Jordan to be a refined, intelligent director with a real weak spot when it comes to engaging storytelling. NWN one of the top six weekly newspapers in the UK The Newbury Weekly News was commended in the UK weekly newspaper of the year category at the newsawards 2019 in London last night. The judges said: "It's a great family-owned community newspaper covering all topics and local events. Well printed with sharp images." The NWN was bought by Edward Iliffe last week and his Iliffe Media company did well at last night's awards. Mr Iliffe's Cambridge Independent beat the NWN to the weekly newspaper of the year award for its third year in a row. And the Kent Messenger was also commended in the same category meaning Iliffe titles made up half of the top six. Iliffe Print in Cambridge which now prints the Newbury Weekly News was highly commended for regional newspaper printer of the year. NWN editor Andy Murrill said: "We're delighted that our peers have once again chosen our newspaper as one of the best in the country." The Newbury Weekly News has also been shortlisted for best weekly newspaper with a circulation of more than 10,000 at the Society of Editors' Regional Press Awards, to be held in London on Friday, May 17. NWN snapper Phil Cannings has been shortlisted for best weekly newspaper photographer at the same awards. (CNN) Thailand's main opposition party has won more seats than anyone else in the country's parliament in the first election since a military coup five years ago but it won't get to choose the country's next leader. Pheu Thai took 136 seats, according to official figures released Wednesday, while the pro-military Palang Pracharat party took 115. Pheu Thai is aligned with former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, whose allies were ousted in the 2014 coup. Based on the official tally, Pheu Thai and its coalition partners appear to have taken a total of 245 of the 500 seats in the lower house, six short of a majority. But that won't be enough to form a government or choose the next prime minister. That decision is made by both houses of Parliament, and the country's 250-seat Senate is chosen entirely by the military, which will almost certainty vote to keep junta leader Prayut Chan-o-cha in office. Critics have complained that the odds were stacked against the opposition from the start in a vote seen as a contest between a pro-military bloc that wants to keep power and pro-democracy forces. Leaders of the National Council for Peace and Order, the junta's official name, have grown accustomed to office. A military-drafted 2017 constitution aims to prevent big parties such as Pheu Thai from returning to office -- and to ensure the army still has a major say, regardless who wins the election. The outcome of the March 24 vote was initially unclear. No party took a decisive lead and both Pheu Thai and Palang Pracharat claimed the right to form a coalition. Results were finally released Wednesday after weeks of delay. The contest was also dogged by allegations of voting irregularities, leading one non-governmental watchdog to determine that the election was "not free and fair." This story was first published on CNN.com, "Thailand's opposition wins most seats, but won't get to choose country's leader." Cebu City (CNN Philippines, May 9) The Commission on Elections (COMELEC) in Central Visayas has ordered an investigation on the claims of Cebu City Mayor Tomas Osmena that local police have been engaging in partisan politics. In a joint briefing of the COMELEC, police, and military for Central Visayas, Comelec Regional Director Veronico Petalcorin said he has tapped a lawyer to look into Osmenas allegations. He added authorities will also investigate the claims of Cebu City police Chief Col. Royina Garma that the mayor harrassed some policemen during checkpoint operations. Osmena on Tuesday asked for the poll bodys intervention as he expressed disappointment with the police situation in his city. "This is the first time that the police is being used for politics. This has never happened before. Even (President Rodrigo) Duterte when he was mayor of Davao, he ran after criminals and even kills them but he never used police for politics. This is the first time, and that is why I am very very disappointed (with the police)," Osmena said in a news forum. He also accused Garma of receiving payola or payoffs of up of 800,000, which supposedly came from illegal gambling. The police chief denied the allegations and urged Osmena to just file cases against her. READ: Cebu City Mayor wants COMELEC intervention in conflict with local police Authorities said Osmenas request for COMELEC control will still be evaluated by the central office in Manila. Resolution 10481 states that COMELEC can place an area under its control on the grounds of intense political rivalry, violence, use of loose firearms and serious armed threats. COMELEC can reshuffle or relieve police officers found guilty of election offenses. Petalcorin said that while intense political rivalry is expected in the area, Cebu City remains relatively peaceful ahead of the May 13 polls. At least 10,000 troops composed of police, military, and Coast Guard personnel will be deployed for the upcoming elections, authorities added. DANBURY Mayor Mark Boughtons $261.5 million budget passed though Democrats on the City Council are not happy with the citys spending plan. The budget was approved 14 to 7 at Tuesdays City Council meeting with all of the Democrats opposing. The biggest critique was there wasnt enough money for schools and cultural components, such as the Danbury Museum and Tarrywile Park. But Boughton said Wednesday, Were very pleased that were able to provide a zero-tax increase to our residents. We think they need a break. Councilman Robert Taborsak, however, said Danbury is one of the most economically successful cities in the state and should be doing more, especially for the schools. Its inadequate for the various needs in a city which I feel has the most diverse population in the state, he said. We can do much better and we should do much better. Personally, Im ashamed of Danbury being 169th of the per pupil expenditures in the state. Councilman Duane E. Perkins proposed adding $1 million to the schools, a move that only the Democratic minority on the council supported, so it failed. Perkins said the money could be used to help students and families with mental health issues by hiring staff or starting programs. We have an opportunity at least to begin to make some changes in the right direction, Perkins said. Were at a critical juncture here, folks. Boughtons approved budget includes $5.2 million of the schools requested $7.7 million increase. He said this is much higher than any of the school increases in the area, and the fact that there are seven schools of distinction in the district shows the schools have been appropriately funded. It also continues several school projects, such as the boiler replacement, freshman academy plan, and providing new roofs and a track at the high school. During the meeting, Boughton said it was important to find the balance between giving the schools more money and what residents could afford. All council members who spoke agreed the state should be giving the city more money, especially considering how much Danbury is contributing in sales tax. Boughton also said the operating expenses didnt accurately reflect the investments into the cultural parts of the budget, such as for the Danbury Museum, where the city will pave the parking lot for $46,000, or at Tarrywile Park where they will repair roofs for $50,000 to $60,000 each and replace boilers. On Wednesday, Boughton said he thinks what was offered to these two groups was fair but that hell keep working with them. Chris Setaro, the Democratic mayoral candidate, also chimed in outside of Tuesdays meeting. The citys budget has ballooned more than $100 million in the last 18 years an increase of more than 70 percent, Setaro said in a statement. While this latest budget proposal doesnt increase the mill rate, it still increases spending by more than $4.5 million. But not enough of those dollars are going to our schools, to improving our roads, or hiring more police officers. Boughtons budget also includes $4.5 million for road work, including paving, fixing potholes, installing guardrails and improving drainage. And there is $2.2 million to fix the runways at the airport, which will mostly use federal money. This is a good, solid, measured budget that keeps Danbury moving forward, Boughton said. kkoerting@newstimes.com; 203-731-3345 DANBURY Uncle Sam, the iconic 38-foot statue that once stood watch over the citys fairgrounds, returned to his place of prominence Wednesday at his new home. A crane and a crew of workers spent the sunny afternoon outside the Danbury Railway Museum bolting down the Danbury Fair relic, which was returned to the city in December after a 36-year sabbatical. The city will spend the next few weeks pouring a concrete base, installing lighting, and preparing a designated spot to take Sam selfies. We want to make sure people have a place where they can take photos of Uncle Sam, do a selfie, and promote the city on social media, said Stephen Nocera, who oversees the Office of Project Excellence. This is a testament to our heritage, but in a forward-thinking and new way. Small crowds and passers-by stopped by the White Street site Wednesday to watch a crane lower Sam onto steel supports. There hasnt been this much excitement in downtown Danbury over an installation since the city erected its 100-foot flagpole on Main Street in 2017. Danbury Mayor Mark Boughton, who has made the return of Uncle Sam a priority, said a dedication will take place as soon as the summer. The mayor said contrary to what some people posted on Twitter in response to his photos of the event, Uncle Sam is not missing a left hand. The hand was removed to make the transfer of the huge statute easier. The reason its off is because its hard to get him under the overpass of the highway, Boughton said. Its here, and it has a cane attached to it. The statue spent the intervening decades entertaining families at the Magic Forest family amusement park in Lake George, N.Y. Magic Forest owner Jack Gillette bought Uncle Sam and other Danbury Fair treasures at the one-week auction in April 1982 after the fair closed for the last time, but the giant sculpture had spent a chunk of the 20th century overlooking the fair. Boughton struck a $50,000 deal with Gillette for Uncle Sam, his fencing, plus a Cinderella exhibit that was built on the Danbury fairgrounds decades ago. It was expected to cost another $50,000 to $100,000 to transport, refurbish, install and light Uncle Sam. You cant put a price on this this has memories for many, many people who lived in Danbury during the height of the great state fair, but also its a symbol of America and of American government, Boughton said at Wednesdays installation. It will preside over our downtown as we continue to following our evolution as a city. rryser@newstimes.com 203-731-3342 DANBURY The Sherman man accused of murdering his husband in a drunken rage appeared frail and subdued during a court appearance Wednesday. James Maharg, 65, stood handcuffed in a beige prison jumpsuit shoulders slightly slumped with his attorney John Walkley as Judge Ronald Kowalski accepted his motion to extend the time limit for a hearing for probable cause to June 27. Were still waiting for discovery, Walkley said. We dont even have an autopsy at this stage yet. Maharg said nothing during the brief hearing. The mid-March murder of his 63-year-old husband, Thomas Conley, was the culmination of months of escalating trouble for the couple, police said. Maharg told police that he and his husband had stopped going into their Manhattan fashion retail supply business because it was failing, and as a result they were losing their 20-acre farmhouse to the bank and were dealing with it by drinking three bottles of tequila a day. I killed my husband, Maharg told police, according to the arrest warrant. In court on Wednesday, Senior Assistant States Attorney Deborah Mabbett said the state is still in the process of obtaining information provided to counsel. The state is still awaiting information from the Medical Examiners Office, Mabbett said, and it might be a couple weeks before its available. Once we receive that information, then counsel can make a determination at that point if we want to proceed with a second autopsy, Mabbett said. Maharg is charged with murdering Conley and tampering with evidence. It started March 19, when Maharg called 911 and said, My husband is dead. State troopers found empty tequila bottles in the couples house, as well as Conleys already-cold body. (State police) observed that (Conley) was lying naked against the wall at the bottom of the staircase and had two wounds to the top of his scalp, the more pronounced of the two being a gaping gash approximately two inches wide and four inches long, reads the arrest warrant. The official cause of death from the Connecticut Chief Medical Examiners Office was chop wounds. Maharg and his husband had been drinking tequila all day as the two had done habitually since mid-December, police said. The victim walked into the kitchen and said something nasty to Maharg, and Maharg pushed the victims chest, causing him to fall backward into the kitchen cabinet shelf, the warrant reads. Maharg stated he must have struck the victim in the head at some point during this time, however he could not provide us with the object or the exact time frame, the warrant says. [He] stressed he must have struck him in the head with a significant object to create the large gash. Maharg was arraigned March 22 in Waterbury Hospital, where he underwent detoxification treatment and was on suicide watch, according to his arrest file. He is being held on $2 million bail at the Bridgeport Correctional Facility. June 27 is Mahargs next scheduled appearance at Danbury Superior Court. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 9) A regional trial court (RTC) judge was shot dead by unidentified men Thursday afternoon in Zamboanga del Norte. Judge Reymar Lacaya of Sindangan, Zamboanga del Norte RTC Branch 11, was killed outside his quarters in Liloy town, according to the municipal police. Initial report said Lacaya was walking towards his car when he was shot at around 3 p.m. Authorities recovered four empty shells from a caliber .45 firearm believed used by the gunmen. Authorities said an investigation is under way. The Supreme Court meanwhile condemned the killing and urged authorities to fast-track their investigation on the case. The entire Judiciary condemns in the strongest possible terms the killing of Judge Lacaya. I am urging the authorities to exert their best efforts for the immediate apprehension of those responsible for Judge Lacayas death, Chief Justice Lucas Bersamin said in a statement Thursday. The high court added Lacaya is the 30th judge to be killed in active service since 1999. In October 2018, Ozamiz City RTC judge Edmundo Pintac was also gunned down by unknown suspects. Pintac was the judge who handled the drug cases of the Parojinog siblings. READ: Parojinog family denies hand in judge's death The damaging effects of glyphosate-containing herbicides on humans, animals and the environment have been widely studied for several decades. In an effort to better quantify how specific amounts of glyphosate correlate with certain diseases, it is imperative to evaluate exactly how this harmful pesticide is used in various regions around the world. Skip to: FrankHH | Shutterstock Why is it important to understand where glyphosate is being used? When toxicologists are evaluating the health effects of a specific pesticide, it is essential that they know exactly how much of the pesticide is being used in each region on a given crop. Furthermore, the timing and method of pesticide application, as well as the specific formulation of the pesticide, also contribute to evaluating these toxicological studies. As crops have evolved to become more tolerant, and even resistant, to the application of broad-spectrum glyphosate, farmers have often relied on increasing the amount and frequency of glyphosate spraying. In 1974, farmers and ranchers in the United States applied an estimated 0.36 million kilograms of active glyphosate. By the year 2014, this number increased by 300-fold to reach up to 113.4 million kilograms. Which crops are typically treated with glyphosate? The active ingredient of glyphosate is typically applied to soybeans, corn, cotton, wheat, alfalfa, sorghum, sugar beets, canola, oranges, barley, and several other crops. Glyphosate use in the U.S. From 1990 to 2014, the total number of crops that were directly exposed to glyphosate in the United States increased from about 7.7 million pounds to approximately 250 million pounds. Some of the most significant factors that have contributed to a rise in glyphosate use in the U.S. include: the continuous expansion in the number of crops registered for use of glyphosate product labels, the adoption of no-tillage and conservation tillage systems, the emergence of new pesticide application and timing methods, and the increased commercialization of genetically engineered herbicide-tolerant (GE-HT) crops. Which U.S. states use the most glyphosate? It is not surprising that the states that are more predominantly agricultural, such as California, Washington, and Illinois, have the highest levels of pesticide use. More specifically, the states that use the largest amounts of glyphosate include Illinois, Iowa, Nebraska, Kansas, North Dakota, Minnesota, South Dakota, Texas, Indiana and Missouri. In fact, states such as Montana and South Dakota rely on glyphosate for more than 50% of their total pesticide usage. Since glyphosate is most commonly used for the treatment of soybeans and corn crops, it is not surprising that these crops are more commonly grown in the mid-western geography and Great Plains of the U.S. Which U.S. states use the least glyphosate? In the U.S., states such as Rhode Island, New Hampshire, Connecticut, Vermont, and Massachusetts, each of which is predominantly located in the northeastern part of the country, are associated with the lowest levels of pesticide use. Subsequently, these same states are also associated with the least amount of glyphosate use in America. To date, various states have taken important measures to restrict or ban the use of glyphosate. For example, in 2017, California became the first state to issue a warning on glyphosate by list this pesticide as a probable carcinogen. Colorado has also banned the use of glyphosate in public recreational parks, whereas many towns in Connecticut have adopted bans or restrictions of glyphosate use, particularly when used in areas surrounding elementary schools. Does the Worlds Top Weed Killer Cause Cancer? Play When one thinks of the military, images of elite, highly fit soldiers often come to mind. Conversely, talk of eating disorders generally steers toward undernourished individuals, often young women. However, data has shown that the prevalence of eating disorders in the military is roughly the same as in general society, and two University of Kansas researchers have secured a grant from the Department of Defense to develop a screening to detect eating disorders among the nation's soldiers and identify organizational barriers to identifying and treating them. Kelsie Forbush, associate professor of psychology, and Alesha Doan, associate professor of women, gender & sexuality studies and faculty member in the School of Public Affairs & Administration, have secured a three-year, $1.7 million grant to study eating disorders in the military, adapt a previously successful screening tool and determine organizational challenges to detecting and treating eating disorders in both active-duty soldiers and veterans. The grant is administered by KU's Life Span Institute. Active military face a wide range of dangers on the battlefield, and the risks of post-traumatic stress are well-documented. However, the constant pressure to meet fitness standards, physical requirements to enlist and expectation for leaders to maintain fitness levels as role models all can lead to eating disorders. "Many people are not aware that the military has rigorous standards that require military personnel to meet specific body mass and other physical fitness standards," Forbush said. "In addition to physical fitness and body mass standards, in deployment situations, soldiers can experience additional pressures that can lead to disordered eating. The availability of calorie-dense 'meals, ready to eat' and high-calorie cafeteria-style comfort food served in chow halls can cause weight gain. Active-duty service members are also exposed to stress and trauma, which may lead to unhealthy eating behaviors in an attempt to cope with traumatic experiences and temporarily 'escape' from negative emotions." Recent studies show that eating disorders occur in about 13 to 15 percent of young women and 3 percent of young men in the general population, and those statistics are approximately the same among members of the military. That number could actually underestimate the total in the military as there is not currently a servicewide screening to detect eating disorders, and those most often used in general populations rely on highly gendered questions most applicable to young women, Forbush said. Failure to maintain body mass index and fitness standards can lead to referral to weight-loss programs and, potentially, discharge from service. Further, eating disorders have the highest mortality rate among all mental health disorders. Yet, despite the severity, no screening is in place for recruits and active-duty military or within the Veterans Health Administration system. Forbush's research group has developed a screening known as the Eating Pathology Symptoms Inventory, shown to comprehensively measure disordered eating in both men and women. The researchers will work to adapt the screening to identify veterans who may have eating, mood, anxiety or trauma disorder. A nationally representative sample of 1,000 men and women discharged from the military within one year will take the screening at four time points. The reliability and validity will be tested, and a shorter form will be developed and tested with a second sample of 400 veterans to determine if the screening can accurately identify cases of eating, mood, anxiety or trauma disorder. The screening will be designed to detect disordered eating and other potentially dangerous behaviors such as muscle building, excessive exercise, purging and restricting. Doan will lead research into organizational barriers by conducting interviews with a subset of 100 veterans on their perceptions of institutional and cultural issues that may prevent identification and treatment of eating disorders. "We'll be looking at organizational practices and policies that may factor into eating disorders and perhaps impede treatment," Doan said. "We want to better understand how the environment may be creating formal barriers that contribute to the problem. For example, eating disorders are often viewed as a health issue that affects women. Understanding this issue as a gendered problem may heighten stigma for men seeking treatment in the organization." By developing effective screening, the researchers hope the military can implement measures to detect enlistees at risk of eating disorders when they enter, identify current soldiers also at risk or currently displaying disordered eating behaviors and to serve veterans who suffer from eating disorders. Potential recruits often feel pressure to lose weight rapidly in order to qualify, active-duty military face high levels of stress, and veterans often deal with post-traumatic stress, all of which can contribute to disordered eating. To complicate matters, obesity is a problem throughout society. Early detection and treatment could greatly enhance military readiness, the researchers said, as well as lead to improved health following treatment. In addition to the Department of Defense funding, Forbush has received $330,000 in Research Excellence Initiative funding from KU's College of Liberal Arts & Sciences. The funding will support two years of research via an Academic Accelerator Award in the College, which will allow Forbush to complete a longitudinal research project designed to improve the ability to predict who will recover or relapse from an eating disorder and to provide treatment to KU students experiencing eating disorders. The military project is also among the first to examine eating disorders and related mental health conditions among veterans on a national level. Thus, Forbush and Doan said they hope the results will not only contribute to the understanding of the scope and effects of eating disorders in post-9/11 veterans but demonstrate the need for a national VA program to address them. Thirteen years ago, Susanne Klawetter gave birth to triplets. They required a stay in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). Stays like Klawetter's are relatively common: about 10 percent of all babies born nationwide will require care in a NICU, according to the National Institutes of Health. The experience is traumatic and can have negative, lasting impacts for both the baby and parents. But health systems don't have an infrastructure in place to support NICU parents in a systematic way. "The NICU experience can be really tough. We need to be thinking about how we can support families navigating it," Klawetter said. Her experience inspired the Portland State University Assistant Professor of Social Work to seek change and research the needs of NICU parents. Klawetter received a two-year, $740,601 grant through the NW Patient-Centered Learning Health Systems Science K12 Research Career Development Program to support her research project. She's the first recipient of a K-12 grant in the PSU School of Social Work. The grant will allow Klawetter to identify the behavioral health needs of parents with NICU babies -- which could include features like on-site counseling or access to peer support -- and identifying barriers to meeting those needs. She will partner with Oregon Health & Science University to conduct the study. Once she determines what health systems could offer to better support parents, Klawetter will pull together a workgroup to figure out what a sustainable program might look like. "There's such a tremendous opportunity for health systems to really impact the long-term trajectory of the family in a focused way," Klawetter said. Parents with babies in the NICU also have a higher risk of depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and substance abuse, according to NIH statistics. The postpartum depression rate in the U.S., for example, is 10 to 15 percent for the general maternal population. That rate jumps to 39 to 55 percent for mothers with babies in the NICU. Research also shows that mothers with infants in the NICU have a higher prevalence of severe anxiety -- 43 percent -- and parents hold onto the stress and trauma of their experience in the NICU for more than a month after discharge in the form of PTSD, according to NIH. That's the case for 15 percent of mothers and 8 percent of fathers. "My position is that if we can figure out how to have the health system provide behavioral health support for families in the NICU, you will ultimately improve patient outcomes," Klawetter said. The good news is providers want to support families in the NICU but the best way to do this is currently a knowledge gap. "I think they care about families and want to increase knowledge about how to support NICU families," she added. Klawetter's research will begin in earnest this summer with the hiring of a PSU graduate assistant. After completing phase one of her project, Klawetter plans to apply for a new grant to design a pilot project based on her findings. Isabelle Carnell-Holdaway is a British teenager with cystic fibrosis. When she was 15, Isabelle underwent a lung transplant at Great Ormond Street Hospital, and whilst recovering, developed a life-threatening, multi-drug resistant infection. Realizing that antibiotics were not going to work, doctors decided to try an experimental treatment in the form of genetically engineered viruses (known as bacteriophages) that infect and kill bacteria. The treatment was highly successful, and the details of the case study were published in the latest issue of the journal Nature Medicine. Design_Cells | Shutterstock Isabelle's mother Jo Holdaway described the treatment process, saying: We were at the point where there was no other hope, they said she wasn't going to leave the hospital and had less than 1 percent chance of survival. Isabelle was given a cocktail of bacteriophages that targeted and killed the rogue bacteria. Thanks to the innovative treatment, she is back to taking her regular medication and is learning how to drive. The treatment, known as phage therapy, has previously been investigated as a potential solution to antibiotic resistance. However, a large-scale roll out is unlikely to happen soon, as the treatment is still in the experimental stages and will need refinement, as well as large clinical trials, to prove that it is safe and effective. The practice of using bacteria-engulfing viruses as treatment of severe bacterial infections has been around for nearly a century. It has not been used widely or tried in large clinical trials yet because bacteriophages are highly specific in the bacteria they target and need to be generated on a case-by-case basis. This means they cannot be used in emergencies where broad-spectrum antibiotics need to be administered immediately before the cause of the infection is known. Unlike previous experiments, the researchers treating Isabelle used genetically modified phages which made them more effective than those occurring naturally. This is the first person who has been treated for a mycobacterium infection with phage therapy that were aware of. Dr. Helen Fisher, Respiratory Paediatrician Desperate for other options Following a lung transplant, Isabelle developed an infection within the healing wounds. This infection soon spread to her liver and the donated lung, causing her to spend the most part of the following year in the hospital. She was incredibly sick. She had fulminant [acute] liver failure... She was pretty much bed bound, wasnt eating at all, we were having to feed her intravenously... Isabelles parents knew we were trying to work on this phage therapy, so when the time came that we had no other conventional therapies to use and ongoing signs of infection they were desperate for other options. Dr. Spencer, Senior Author Professor Graham Hatfull, a microbiologist at the University of Pittsburgh was sent samples of Isabelles infection along with samples of another infected patient. Professor Hatfulls laboratory has a large collection of bacteriophages (over 15,000) that have never been used for therapeutic purposes. Professor Hatfull explained, We were sent a few strains, from London, and set about testing whether the phages in our collection would be able to infect these particular bacterial strains. In January 2018, the researchers found a single bacteriophage strain (which they named Muddy) that was able to kill the bacterium causing Isabelles infection. They took this strain and two others and genetically modified them to increase their efficacy against the infection. The experts believe that using more than one strain could help prevent the bacteria from mutating and becoming resistant to the bacteriophage, as they are being challenged by multiple phages at once. A targeted strike The next step, which began in June 2018, involved the team giving Isabelle twice-daily infusions containing millions of genetically engineered bacteriophages. Within six weeks, the infection had disappeared from Isabelles liver completely. The team used a combination of the phages and antibiotics to treat the remaining infections in her skin. Professor Hatfull called antibiotics blunt instruments and said, With phages its the opposite end of the spectrum. Theyre very specific, its a targeted strike, youre not going to affect the rest of the microbiome and theyre low toxicity because they dont infect human cells. However, its a double-edged sword, he said, because they may target the strain infecting patient number one, but patient two or three, may have the same species of bacteria but the strain can vary to such an extent that it doesnt work. Jason Gill, a senior scientist at the center for phage technology at Texas A&M University in her statement said that it could be an option against antibiotic resistance, but wont work for everyone: Its probably going to turn out that the phages are going to be really effective for some conditions, and others they wont work that well. Despite this, the medical and scientific communities are inspired. Professor Martha Clokie, from the University of Leicester, said in a statement: I think that this work is enormously exciting. It shows how bacteriophages can be successfully developed as therapeutics even in very difficult circumstances where bacteria are resistant to many antibiotics and the bacteria are difficult to treat. I think it will pave the way for other such studies to help with getting the necessary trials carried out on bacteriophages so that they can be used more widely to treat humans, he said. An opportune time for basic researchers The new study is supported by several previous research papers which have explored the potential of phage therapy. For example, Kaitlyn Kortright from the Yale School of Medicine and colleagues recently published a review article in the journal Cell Host Microbes. The review, which was titled, Phage Therapy: A Renewed Approach to Combat Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria, examined the history of phage therapy research in Western countries. The researchers concluded the research, saying phage therapy like any medical treatment, has benefits, costs, and limitations in usefulness that merit close scrutiny. They finish by saying, this is an opportune time for basic researchers, clinicians, and physicians to work together to address open questions through rigorous experiments in the laboratory, in vivo models, and clinical cases to reward phage therapy with the renewed interest and greater examination that it deserves. Fernando Altamirano and colleagues from the School of Biological Sciences, Monash University say that now is the time for the rebirth of phage therapy as part of the multidimensional strategies to combat antibiotic resistance. In a recent review, published in in the journal Clinical Microbiology Reviews, the team writes that antibiotic resistance is one of the biggest public health problems today. The therapeutic use of bacteriophages, viruses that infect and kill bacteria, is well suited to be part of the multidimensional strategies to combat antibiotic resistance. They explain that this concept was discovered almost a century ago and was overshadowed by the discovery of antibiotics. With rise of antibiotic resistance, there is soon to be a rebirth of these agents. Journal reference: Engineered bacteriophages for treatment of a patient with a disseminated drug-resistant Mycobacterium abscessus. DOI:10.1038/s41591-019-0437-z. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 500,000 individuals in the U.S. died as a result of drug overdose between 2007 and 2017. Increasingly, the deaths are involving synthetic opioids that primarily come from China. The epidemic is so severe that around 130 Americans die every day from opioid-related causes. In addition, cases of opioid overdoses are now six times higher than those recorded in 1999. Now, researchers have developed an implant that has shown promise for reducing addiction rates. However, there are major ethical and financial concerns, which we have tried to cover in this news story. RCH Photography | Shutterstock The opioid epidemic has been portrayed in the media as a problem affecting white Americans, but in Baltimore and Washington, D.C., the majority of people dying from overdose are black. In Philadelphia, however, white people accounted for most opioid overdose deaths in 2017 compared with 2016, while deaths among blacks rose by 34% and deaths among Hispanics rose by 60%. A paper describing the epidemiology of opioid deaths in the U.S. has been published in JAMA Psychiatry. Were all trying to rapidly improve access to treatment. But we have to be thoughtful about really improving access to treatment for those who need it most." Pooja Lagisetty, Assistant Professor, University of Michigan Stimulating the brains pleasure center The rising death toll has fuelled efforts to seek out effective treatments for drug addiction. Clinicians in the U.S. are interested in using deep brain stimulation (DBS), an approach that has long been used to treat movement disorders such as Parkinsons. However, the U.S. National Institutes of Health will only fund experiments involving animals rather than people: The lack of scientific clarity, the important but strict regulatory regime, along with the high cost and risk of surgery make clinical trials of DBS for addiction in the U.S. difficult at the present time. Emad Eskandar, Albert Einstein College of Medicine In China, however, which has long used brain surgery to treat drug addiction, the first clinical trial of DBS is being carried out to treat a man (dubbed Patient Number One) for his methamphetamine addiction. At Shanghais Ruijin Hospital, the man will have a pacemaker-like device surgically implanted that will electrically stimulate certain areas of the brain. Two electrodes will be threaded into a brain region called the nucleus accumbens. Also sometimes referred to as the brains pleasure center, this small structure is thought to be involved in motivation, pleasure, and addiction. While efforts to push forward with human trials of DBS for addiction have foundered in Western countries, China is becoming a hotspot for the research. Recruiting patients for trials of DBS for addiction has proved difficult in European countries and concerns over ethical, social and scientific aspects have made it difficult to push such studies forward in the U.S., where the electrical stimulation devices can cost up to $100,000 to implant. China, on the other hand, has a long history of using brain surgery to treat drug addiction and to this day, the nations correctional anti-drug laws can result in people being forced into compulsory treatments. Aside from its huge patient population, the nation has governmental funding and determined scientific instrumentation companies all prepared to invest in DBS research. A lots of risks According to the U.S. National Institutes of Health, eight clinical trials of DBS for drug addiction are currently being conducted worldwide and six of those are taking place in China. Before surgical brain implants were used in China, doctors carried out another process called brain lesioning, a high-risk procedure that involves ablating small regions of brain tissue with the hope of restoring patients function and quality of life. Family members of heroin addicts would pay thousands for loved ones to be treated using procedure. Brain lesioning therefore quickly became a reliable source of profit for some hospitals, despite many users being left with memory problems, altered sex drives, and mood disorders. Although Chinas Ministry of Health did put a stop to brain lesioning in 2004, doctors working at a hospital in Xian reported nine years later that approximately half of the 1,167 patients they had treated using the procedure had not taken drugs for five years or more. Now, the country is building on that history by introducing DBS, which unlike brain lesioning does not irreversibly destroy brain tissue. There is a renewed interest globally in experimenting with the technique as a treatment for addiction and in February, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration gave the go-ahead for a clinical trial of DBS for opioid addiction. However, critics disapprove of the surgery, arguing that it is too early to experiment on humans and that using DBS does not address the psychological, biological and social aspects that contribute to addiction. It would be fantastic if there were something where we could flip a switch, but its probably fanciful at this stage Theres a lot of risks that go with promoting that idea. Adrian Carter, Monash University Neurosurgeon Nader Pouratian (University of California in Los Angeles), on the other hand, believes there has been a reset in the field and thinks it is a perfectly appropriate time to research DBS for drug addiction. However, only if we can move forward in ethical, well-informed, well-designed studies, he adds. Researchers eye brain implant for drug addiction Play Source Experimental brain implants studied as opioid deaths rise A simple innovation the size of a grain of sand means we can now analyze cells and tiny particles as if they were inside the human body. The team: Peter Thurgood, Sara Baratchi, Elena Pirogova, Ngan Nguyen and Khashayar Khoshmanesh. The new micro-device for fluid analysis just unveiled in Advanced Functional Materials will enable more tailored experiments in drug development and disease research. It could also transform water contamination testing and medical diagnosis in natural disaster zones, where its low cost, simple use and portability make it a practical tool almost anyone can use. How it works Microfluidic or 'lab-on-a-chip' devices are commonly used to analyze blood and other fluid samples, which are pumped through narrow channels in a transparent chip the size of a postage stamp. This new chip takes that technology one step further by adding a three-dimensional cavity along the channel - think of a narrow tunnel that suddenly opens into a domed vault - which creates a mini-vortex where particles spin around, making them easier to observe. To make this cavity, researchers inserted a liquid metal drop onto the silicon mold when making the chip. The liquid metal's high surface tension means it holds its form during the molding process. Finally the liquid metal is removed, leaving just the channel and a spherical cavity ready to use as a mini-centrifuge, explained RMIT engineer and study co-leader Dr Khashayar Khoshmanesh. "When the fluid sample enters the spherical-shaped cavity, it spins inside the cavity," he said. "This spinning creates a natural vortex, which just like a centrifuge machine in an analytics lab, spins the cells or other biological samples, allowing them to be studied without the need for capturing or labeling them." The device only requires tiny samples, as little as 1 ml of water or blood, and can be used to study tiny bacterial cells measuring just 1 micron, all the way up to human cells as large as 15 microns. A platform for studying cardiovascular diseases Study co-leader and RMIT biologist, Dr Sara Baratchi, said the device's soft spherical cavities could be used to mimic 3D human organs and observe how cells behave in various flow conditions or drug interactions. "The ability to tailor the size of the cavity also allows for different flow situations to be simulated - this way we can mimic the response of blood cells under disturbed flow situations, for example at branch points and curvatures of coronary and carotid arteries, which are more prone to narrowing," she said. This capability will be of interest to Australia's booming biomedical industry, with medical apparatus being among our top 10 exports in 2018 and worth $3.2 billion. Baratchi said the discovery was only made possible through collaboration, with technologists from the School of Engineering and mechano-biologists in the School of Health and Biomedical Sciences joining forces in RMIT's Mechanobiology and Microfluidics research group. "Biologists like myself have been struggling to study the impact of flow-associated forces on circulatory blood cells. Now this miniaturized device developed with our engineering colleagues does exactly that," Baratchi said. "It's an ingenious solution that really highlights the value of cross-disciplinary research." But some of the most exciting applications could also be outside the lab. A cheap and portable water test that anyone can use Another promising application is for identifying parasites and other infections in waterways, especially in developing countries. "Detection of water impurities can be a difficult task because you don't always know exactly what you're looking for," Khoshmanesh said. "But with this device the impurities will be captured and orbited by the vortex without any special sample preparation, saving time and money." Whether used for analyzing water or blood samples, the low cost and portability of the device makes it attractive for a whole range of applications. The same research group recently developed a pressure pump, made from latex balloons, to operate the device. Unlike conventional pumps, which can be as large as a shoebox and cost thousands of dollars, theirs is low cost and portable. "Simplicity is a very important parameter for our designs because that often translates to lower cost and great applicability outside the lab," Khoshmanesh said. "Our new microfluidic device, combined with our pump and a smartphone capable of capturing high-speed images, makes a low-cost, self-sufficient and entirely portable point-of-care diagnostics device." Hematologists are zeroing in on the escalating humanitarian crisis in southern Europe by assessing the burden of blood disorders among refugees and identifying strategies to facilitate more timely identification and treatment of refugees with sickle cell disease (SCD). A study from an Italian research team published today in Blood suggests SCD is common among refugees and screening efforts should be increased. SCD is an inherited disorder that affects the production of hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells that delivers oxygen to cells throughout the body. This abnormal hemoglobin can cause red blood cells to become rigid and sickle shaped. The cells stick together and can block the flow of blood and oxygen throughout the body, leading to intense pain and other serious issues such as stroke, infection, pulmonary complications, and even death. Experts stress that, for migrants with known or undiagnosed SCD, the extreme conditions during their travels - dehydration, psychological stress, and exposure to very high or low temperatures - can trigger severe pain crises. Delays in care can lead to severe organ complications and death. Researchers led by Lucia De Franceschi, MD, of the University of Verona in Italy, found that the vast majority of migrants arriving to Italy are from areas where SCD is highly prevalent, notably sub-Saharan countries, which consistently report the highest burden of SCD globally. In fact, an estimated 80 percent of all newborns with SCD are born in this region, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Even though SCD is endemic to these areas and has been identified as a global health priority by the African Union and the World Health Organization, there is currently no screening program. Based on their analysis of 2014-2017 data from 13 Italian reference centers, SCD was relatively common in refugees, and it was primarily identified when individuals went to emergency departments for acute sickle cell-related events. De Franceschi reports the rates of anemia were higher among refugees than in the native Italian SCD population, which could be due to malnutrition. A total of 70 patients with hemoglobin disorders were identified, the majority of whom were male. Half were adults with the median age of 21 years and the other half were children. Most came from West African countries Senegal and Nigeria, as well as Morocco, Egypt, and Tunisia in North Africa, and Syria in the Middle East. During this same four-year period, researchers report a total of 624,688 refugees arrived on the Italian coast. "Our data underscore the need to more systematically screen refugees coming from areas where SCD is endemic and suggest a strong national network might help to spur action," said De Franceschi, whose work is supported by University of Verona (FUR) and the scientific Italian society for studying hemoglobinopathies (SITE). "Early identification of cases can help prevent severe SCD-related events and life-threatening complications and redirect patients to comprehensive SCD centers for specialty clinical management, follow-up, and timely initiation of treatment." The group pilot tested a program that screened all refugees at a single refugee center using one of the new rapid point-of-care screening devices (SickleSCAN BioMedomics, Inc.), the results of which were then validated using the gold standard laboratory test. Front-line health providers in refugee centers and emergency department personnel were trained to recognize the signs and symptoms of SCD and intervene to provide necessary care. De Franceschi said this approach has allowed them to offer treatment with hydroxyurea and maintain routine clinical follow-up of newly identified SCD patients. De Franceschi said that, based on their findings, efforts should focus on: Routine screening for SCD in refugees from countries endemic for SCD within 10-14 days from their arrival to identify potentially vulnerable patients A structured, collaborative national network Educating ED physicians to identify and treat acute SCD-related events "We hope our data might open international political and social discussions about the accessibility of health care for refugees to treat both acute and chronic complications related to SCD," De Franceschi said. In a commentary of the study published today in Blood, authors Russell E. Ware, MD, PhD, and Courtney D. Thornburg, MD, MS, write that based on this study incoming migrants should be routinely tested for SCD and so should their offspring. Blood (http://www. bloodjournal. org), the most cited peer-reviewed publication in the field of hematology, is available weekly in print and online. Blood is a journal of the American Society of Hematology (ASH) (http://www. hematology. org), the world's largest professional society concerned with the causes and treatment of blood disorders. ASH's mission is to further the understanding, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of disorders affecting blood, bone marrow, and the immunologic, hemostatic, and vascular systems by promoting research, clinical care, education, training, and advocacy in hematology. Blood is a registered trademark of the American Society of Hematology. Sign up for our newsletter to keep reading. Be the first to know Get local news delivered to your inbox! Sign up! Already a Subscriber? Already a Subscriber? Sign in Terms of Service Privacy Policy United States Postal Service employees will be doing more than just delivering peoples mail Saturday as they collect nonperishable food items for the 27th annual Letter Carriers Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive. John Sosa has been serving as the USPS Lynchburg food drive coordinator for eight years and will be picking up donations while on his regular route Saturday. The most satisfying part of the whole thing is providing to those who are in need. The best part of this whole thing is even though its a national food drive, whatever we collect here locally stays here locally, Sosa said. Stamp Out Hunger is the nations largest single-day food drive and has totaled more than 1.6 billion pounds of food since it began in 1993, according to the National Association of Letter Carriers. Abena Foreman-Trice, director of marketing and communications for the Blue Ridge Area Food Bank, which serves 25 counties and eight cities, said the number of people the food bank serves on average each month hasnt dipped, and the food drive helps those in need. On average, the Lynchburg branch of the food bank serves 18,623 people monthly. Were still seeing a significant number of individuals and families on a regular basis. Having that food come into us and on hand in order to distribute is a great feeling because we know were able to be there for the individuals and families when they need us, Foreman-Trice said. Lynchburg Postmaster Mark Williams said this years goal is to collect 100,000 pounds of food. Last year, the Lynchburg branch of the Blue Ridge Area Food Bank received 77,810 pounds of food, which provided 64,841 meals to individuals and families. On Saturday, Williams said its all hands on deck in Lynchburg with close to 100 mail carriers on their normal routes picking up donations left inside or by mailboxes or on the curb. Williams said at least 10 carriers will be working on their day off to volunteer, and carriers family members will also help. Williams said as trucks fill up, carriers call other volunteers that arent carrying mail to empty the truck and deliver the donations to central locations in the city such as Kroger on Boonsboro Road. Volunteers also will be driving in front of carriers on their routes collecting food, he said. Tractor trailers will then transport the donations to the Lynchburg branch of the Blue Ridge Area Food Bank. Its a great feeling, Williams said. Were still one of the few services left in the nation. Were one of the most trusted services in the nation. We take pride in being the United States Postal Service. Its good to give back, and it has a big impact. James Quade, the Lynchburg branch manager of the Blue Ridge Area Food Bank, said a handful of volunteers will help collect donations and put them into bins to transport them from central locations to the food bank. Throughout next week, Quade said the Lynchburg food bank will have about 60 volunteers from several groups helping to sort through the food, check dates and more. Foreman-Trice said the food drive comes at a time when community donations take a dip. I think people have their minds set on the end of the school year, the start of a roughly three- month period in which people go on vacation and things of that nature. Our attention is placed on different areas compared to the fall when holidays are approaching and charitable food donations and food drives tend to be top of mind, Foreman-Trice said. Sosa said the food bank also needs donations for school feeding programs in the summer because students are out of school and dont receive meals. Anyone interested in making a donation can leave nonperishable food items in a bag near their mailbox on Saturday before the letter carrier arrives. Donations can include canned meats like tuna, chicken and salmon; canned and boxed meals; canned or dried beans and peas; pasta; rice; cereal; canned fruits and vegetables; cooking oil and boxed cooking mixes. Every pound or every little bit helps even if its just a small amount. They all add up, Quade said. GOODE Four candidates vying to become Bedford Countys first new sheriff in nearly a quarter-century outlined their visions for the office Wednesday at a candidate forum. The slate of candidates, which includes three Republicans and two independents, all have deep ties to the sheriffs office. They are: Mike Miller, a Bedford County Sheriffs Office captain. Kent Robey, a retired special agent with the Federal Air Marshal Service and a former Bedford County Sheriffs Officecaptain. David Wells, a former Roanoke County police officer and the son of retired Bedford County Sheriff Carl Wells. Tim Hayden, a Bedford County Sheriffs Office captain. James Kirkland, a Bedford County Sheriffs Office K-9 handler. Miller, Robey and Wells are competing for the Republican nod in the GOP primary, which will be held June 11. Hayden and Kirkland are both running as independents in the Nov. 5 general election; Kirkland did not participate in the forum. The candidates are hoping to replace incumbent Sheriff Mike Brown, whose decision not to run again for reelection teed up this years contest. Brown will retire on Dec. 31 after six terms in office. Each candidate was given about eight minutes to describe his platform at Wednesdays forum, which was held at Oakland United Methodist Church and attended by about 30 people. In his remarks, Miller touted a five-year plan to expand the sheriffs office, the centerpiece of which includes hiring more deputies and increasing pay. He cited recent increases in call volume and ballooning urban areas as reasons to grow the department. Right now ladies and gentlemen, you may not know this, our population is getting ready to exceed 80,000, he said. Miller, like the other two Republican candidates, said his plan requires no new tax increases and can be accomplished by reallocating department resources. He also pledged to keep crime rates low and to continue to work with community leaders as sheriff. The Bedford County Sheriffs Office is the primary local law enforcement agency for much of the county. The department is responsible for responding to 911 calls, patrolling county roads and investigating criminal offenses. It also provides courthouse security and is charged with protecting county schools. Much of the discussion Wednesday focused on school safety. The office currently employs five school resource officers who frequently travel between the countys 19 public schools. Robey pledged to prioritize school safety as sheriff. He said he hoped to secure state and federal grant funding to hire new SROs and to eventually staff each school with a dedicated SRO, which may take years. In the meantime, he said, he wants deputies to spend more time at individual schools. I want law enforcement in and out of those buildings until I can get SROs in place, he said. Wells has similarly proposed expanding patrol routes to include county schools. Miller and Hayden both highlighted work the sheriffs office has done in recent years to increase school security. Hayden, who now oversees the departments SRO program, said the offices use of technology including a relatively new network of surveillance cameras has made the county schools some of the safest places around here. Were doing things on a daily basis to keep our kids and the staff in the schools safe, he said. Hayden said that work would largely continue if he is elected sheriff in the fall. He also promised to run a transparent sheriffs office and to regularly hold open houses to hear from locals. All of the candidates discussed the importance of community policing. Robey said he plans to hire a department liaison, who will personally coordinate with the countys pastors and farmers to better learn about the challenges they face. Miller and Hayden both said they will continue and expand ongoing community initiatives. For Wells, community policing means training deputies to build personal relationships with the individuals they serve. True community policing is about getting out of the car and getting into the community, he said. You cant just stop in once in a while, you have to go on a regular basis. His approach is just one part of his overarching campaign message: focus on the core function of law enforcement. He also wants to increase the number of deputies on patrol and encourage economic development in the county by keeping crime low. Miller currently leads the pack in fundraising. The 55-year-old veteran deputy has raised nearly $10,000 since the start of the year, according to first quarter campaign finance reports filed with the Virginia Department of Elections. Robey has raised $4,500 and Wells has raised more than $2,000, largely through a personal contribution from himself to his campaign. Hayden and Kirkland, the two independents, have raised a few hundred dollars each, campaign finance records show. Richard Chumney covers breaking news and public safety for The News & Advance. 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. RUSTBURG A Concord man was sentenced Wednesday to 40 years behind bars for possessing more than 30,000 images depicting child sexual abuse or potential exploitation. Aron Maurice Smith, 33, was indicted in Campbell Circuit Court in September on five counts of child pornography distribution and 50 counts of child pornography possession after law enforcement searched his laptop. He entered Alford pleas to those charges in February, meaning he didnt admit guilt but acknowledged theres enough evidence in the case to find him guilty. Terry Williams, an investigator with the Campbell County Sheriffs Office, said the software sorted images and videos on Smiths laptop into three categories: one for material depicting sexual abuse against children, another for what could be exploitative material depicting children and a third for material for which criminal charges cant be pressed. She said Smiths laptop had more than 4,000 images that fit into the first category and more than 27,000 that fit into the second. Campbell County Assistant Commonwealths Attorney Megan Shipman said at Smiths sentencing 155 images depicting the most egregious material were submitted to the court for review. Under Virginia law, defendants can be charged with child porn possession once for every image they have. She said Smith was downloading and distributing images with infants and toddlers in them and its evident from the volume of images that Smith has a serious problem. Four of Smiths child porn distribution charges meant he faces a total mandatory minimum sentence of 20 years, since those offenses are categorized as second or subsequent offenses under law. Gary Straw, Smiths defense attorney, said in court Wednesday those mandatory minimums translate to sentencing guidelines that are much higher than those of other similar cases, where child porn defendants might face sentences of four to six years. He pointed out his client is a first time offender with no criminal history and wasnt producing or reproducing child porn, but rather distributing it by being linked to peer file sharing networks. After the hearing, Shipman told The News & Advance that Smiths charges reflect the number and nature of the distributions. I dont take into account what other jurisdictions are doing. We take this on a case by case basis, she said. Possession and distribution of child pornography are the vilest of crimes; they are not victimless. Smith read from a written statement before receiving his sentence, apologizing to the court and his family. Campbell Circuit Court Judge John Cook sentenced Smith to 40 years of active time eight years for each distribution charge and suspended time for each possession charge. Smith will also have to serve three years of supervised probation, register as a sex offender and will be forbidden from having any unsupervised contact with minors. 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. GamesRadar+ is supported by its audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more The MCU future of the Kingpin may be a mystery, but Marvel Comics has an answer Marvel Comics has already provided the perfect way for Kingpin to keep going in the MCU (Newser) Polish authorities have arrested a woman for putting up posters of the Virgin Mary and Jesus surrounded by LGBT-colored flag halos, CNN reports. Elzbieta Podlesna, 51, was collared after coming home from a trip abroad with Amnesty International on Monday, at which point authorities confiscated her cellphone and laptop and apparently found dozens of the multicolored Virgin Mary images, per the Guardian. The posters had popped up overnight in the city of Plock in April. "Telling stories about freedom and 'tolerance' doesn't give anyone the right to offend the feelings of believers," tweeted Polish interior minister Joachim Brudzinski, who called them examples of "cultural barbarism." story continues below But Podlesna defended her altered images of the Black Madonna of Czestochowa, one of Poland's most revered icons. "This is certainly not an attack on religion, certainly not an attack on faith, this is not a form of attack," she said, per the AP. "How can you attack anyone using a picture, let's be serious." Behind all this is a broader struggle between human-rights activists and Poland's conservative government. Podlesna was among 14 women attacked by protesters while holding up a "Stop Fascism" banner in Warsaw in 2017, per Amnesty International, and now faces up to two years in prison for offending religious feelings. Government critics and activists protested her arrest on Tuesday. (Meanwhile, a stolen Virgin Mary statue turned up in an odd place.) (Newser) LAPD officers and ATF agents seized enough guns to equip a small nation's military after raiding a home in one of Los Angeles' ritziest neighborhoods early Wednesday. LAPD spokesman Mike Lopez says a man was arrested after the raid in Holmby Hills, which took place after officials received a tip about somebody illegally manufacturing and selling guns in the home, the Los Angeles Times reports. Lt. Chris Ramirez says more than 1,000 weapons "of various makes, models, and calibersrifles, shotguns, pistols" were seized from the home, which is near the intersection of Beverly and Sunset boulevards, an area where the average home price is $17 million, reports NBC. (Holmby Hills, Beverly Hills, and Bel Air make up LA's "Platinum Triangle.") story continues below "It's just beyond comprehension that somebody can have so many weapons in a residence like this in a neighborhood like this," Ramirez says. He says it's not illegal for somebody to own or store so many guns, but selling them from a home without the proper licenses is a different story. The LAPD says the suspect was arrested on suspicion of unlawful transportation, and of giving, lending, or selling an assault weapon. The home near the Playboy Mansion is owned by Cynthia Beck, former mistress of billionaire Gordon Getty, the Times reports. Sources tell TMZ that Beck hasn't been seen at the house in years, though "caretakers" have been seen coming and going. (Read more Los Angeles stories.) (Newser) When Australia's new $50 banknote was unveiled last year, the Australian Broadcasting Corporation predicted readers would not be able to spot all the birds on it. Turns out, there is something more interesting to spota typo, even if you need a magnifying glass to see it. See a closeup here, via Triple M. The back of the note features tiny print that includes excerpts of a speech by the nation's first female member of parliament, Edith Cowan, explains the Guardian. Problem is, the word "responsibility" is misspelled: "It is a great responsibilty [sic] to be the only woman here ..." it reads. story continues below The Reserve Bank of Australia, which notes that the $50 bill is the nation's most widely circulated banknote, said the error would be fixed in the next printing run, reports the BBC. However, it took six months for someone to spot the error, and about 46 million of the banknotes are now in circulation. "Like any manufacturing process, errors can occur," says a bank spokesperson, per Australia's ABC. "We have reviewed our processes." (Whoever painted this jet can relate.) (Newser) It may have seemed like a simple plan in his own mind. But, as the Washington Post reports, what Antonio Oswaldo Burgos tried to do in an attempt to get rid of his wife didn't end well: He tried to bribe an Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer to deport her, was arrested, pleaded guilty, and has now been sentenced to prison time. NBC News laid out the timeline in a 2018 report: On May 24 of last year, Burgos showed up at an ICE office in Portland, Ore., followed an officer who left the building, and approached him when he stopped nearly 15 miles later in a parking lot in Vancouver, Wash. That's when Burgos made an initial offer of $4,000 if the officer could arrange to have his wife removed from the country. The officer played alongthen notified ICE authorities, who set up a sting. story continues below Two more phone calls took place between Burgos and the officer, and on June 6, the two met again and Burgos handed over $2,000, promising $2,000 more when the deed was done. He was arrested June 29. Burgos pleaded guilty in November to bribing a public official; on Monday the 48-year-old was sentenced to four months in federal prison, per a release. He'll also have three years of supervised release. In a filing, it was noted Burgos and his wife, who had a child by another man, married in El Salvador but became disenchanted with each other after coming to the US; a divorce had already been set in motion. If Burgos had been convicted, he could have seen 15 years in jail and a $250,000 fine. (Read more ICE stories.) (Newser) Hester Burkhalter says she's never had so much as a speeding ticket. But while on a trip to Disney World, the 69-year-old great-grandmother spent 12 hours in jail and faced a felony charge stemming from a bottle of CBD oil, reports the Tampa Bay Times. An arrest warrant describes "illegal narcotics believed to be THC oil" found in Burkhalters purse at a bag check outside the Magic Kingdom on April 15, per USA Today. Though the Orange County Sheriff's Office claims a drug test kit found evidence of THC, the psychoactive property in marijuana, the 1-ounce bottle of "Select CBD" prescribed by Burkhalter's North Carolina doctor stated it contained none. "I have really bad arthritis in my legs, in my arms, and in my shoulder. I use it for the pain because it helps," Burkhalter tells Fox 35. story continues below She's not the only one. CBD-infused products can be found on store shelves throughout Florida and other states. CBD "falls into a gray area in Florida law, though it's rare to see someone arrested for possession," the Times reports. Per the Miami Herald, the state legislature last week passed a bill that would create a hemp program, but it has yet to be signed into law. Burkhalterwho carried her prescription on the trip, which was two years in the makingwas arrested for possession of hashish and released on $2,000 bail before the charge was dropped. Still, Capt. Carlos Torres says the arresting officer "certainly acted within the scope of the law," per People. "[Buying CBD oil] is a risk because you don't know what you're buying," he says. "Buying it at a store doesn't make it okay." (Pets use CBD, too.) (Newser) Mitch McConnell is embracing the "Cocaine Mitch" nickname given to him last year, going so far as to sell T-shirts featuring a faceless man (ostensibly McConnell) beside a dusting of white powder. "A year ago, a legend was born. Own your piece of history. #CocaineMitch," McConnell's Senate reelection campaign tweeted Wednesday alongside a photo of the red shirt with "Team Mitch" and "Cartel Member" on the back. It was Republican Don Blankenship who provided the nickname during his failed campaign for a West Virginia Senate seat. While attacking McConnell's wife, Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao, Blankenship claimed, without evidence, that a company owned by Chao's family was implicated in cocaine smuggling, per the Hill. story continues below NBC News calls the shirt "a poke at ... critics who alleged that drugs were found aboard a cargo ship" owned by Chao's family. ThinkProgress points out some issues, however, including McConnell's support for Immigration and Customs Enforcement, "which pursues cartel members and those involved in drug trafficking," and the fact that his home state of Kentucky "has one of the highest rates of drug overdose deaths in the nation." The shirt is available with a $35 campaign donation, and it's apparently selling well. Campaign officials said shirts were "flying off the shelves," per the AP. "We're closing in on our biggest fundraising day of the year," the campaign added in a tweet. (Read more Mitch McConnell stories.) We use cookies. By Clicking "OK" or any content on this site, you agree to allow cookies to be placed. Read more in our privacy policy (Newser) "My first thought was, 'I want her to be safe.'" It was for that reason that Don Damond told his fiancee to call police on the night of July 15, 2017, after she heard what she thought was a sexual assault taking place near the couple's Minneapolis home. "Probably six, seven minutes later, I text her having not heard from her," Damond tells CBS News. "I said, 'Tell me what's going on.' At this point, she was already gone." More than a week after former police officer Mohamed Noor was convicted of murder and manslaughter for shooting 40-year-old Justine Damond as she approached his squad car in an alleyway, her former partner still struggles to understand "how this could happen." But "what we know is how tragic this is, how wrong this is, how unjust." story continues below Damond says he wants to see changes in police training not just in Minneapolis but across the country, so "no one ever has to experience what we experienced." "I can understand where Black Lives Matter is so angry because you can see the unjustified shooting across this nation," he says. "This is a blue issue." His was an opinion widely expressed at a Tuesday event at the Lake Harriet Spiritual Community, where Justine once led meditation classes, reports the Star Tribune. Mayor Jacob Frey, Police Chief Medaria Arradondo, and City Council member Linea Palmisano heard from residents who said they no longer felt safe calling 911, and weren't sure they could trust officers not to lie. There were also concerns about Noor's treatment and a $20 million settlement. (Read more Justine Damond stories.) (Newser) After a Utah 16-year-old girl told her 17-year-old brother she had been sexually assaulted aboard a public bus, the boy found the man she accused and attacked him, police say. Michael Fife, 62, suffered head injuries, fell to the ground, and lost consciousness in the alleged April 23 attack. He died four days later. But now police say no sexual assault actually occurred. Video from the bus shows Fife simply walking past the girl, with nothing else taking place, police say. story continues below That day, the girl called her brother and within minutes, the teen found Fife exiting the bus, the Deseret News reports. The Logan police chief tells Fox 13 the teen did "kind of a linebacker-type charge toward the gentleman, knocking him down," and left him lying on the sidewalk. His sister reported the alleged sexual assault to police around 6:15 that night, just over three hours after she said it happened. The incident is still under investigation. Police are consulting with the Cache County Attorneys Office, the Salt Lake Tribune reports. A GoFundMe campaign for Fife's funeral expenses has so far raised more than $1,500. (Read more Utah stories.) (Newser) In what the New York Times calls "a move certain to escalate tensions already on the rise" between the US and North Korea, the US has seized a North Korean cargo ship. The Justice Department says Wise Honest, the second-largest shipping vessel in Pyongyangs fleet, was violating US law and international sanctions by exporting North Korean coal; both the US and the United Nations have imposed sanctions on coal as part of their attempts to get the country to end its nuclear weapons program. Officials say the ship was also used to smuggle heavy machinery into North Korea, USA Today reports. Indonesian authorities intercepted and seized the ship in April 2018 after it was photographed taking on a load of coal at a North Korean port; the captain of the ship was convicted of violating Indonesia's maritime laws. It's not clear what happened to the ship's crew, the AP reports. story continues below The US obtained a sealed seizure warrant for the ship in July, and officials have now filed a complaint seeking the vessel's forfeiture and explaining the reasoning for confiscating the ship, which is in US custody and en route to American Samoa. Officials say US banks were unwittingly involved in the scheme because payments for maintenance and operation of the ship were channeled through them. "This sanctions-busting ship is now out of service," said the head of the Justice Departments national security division in announcing the move Thursday. It's the first time the US has seized a North Korean ship, per the AP; North Korea can contest the seizure in court, but if the US prevails, it can sell the ship. The department said the timing of its complaint has nothing to do with the current tensions between the US and North Korea. (The move came as North Korea has been running weapons tests, a sign that nuclear disarmament talks may be in danger.) (Newser) Anna Sorokin, the German con artist who passed herself off as a wealthy heiress to swindle banks, hotels, and even close friends as she lived out a high-society, Instagram-ready fantasy in New York, was sentenced Thursday to four to 12 years in prison, the AP reports. The 28-year-old, who had played with her own tabloid image during the trial by wearing stylish dresses to court, looked despondent as the verdict was announced. She pressed her hand to her face and squeezed her eyes shut, appearing to hold back tears. Judge Diane Kiesel said Sorokin had been "blinded by the glitter and glamour of New York City" as she turned to fraud to finance a life she could never afford. But she turned down a request by Sorokin's lawyers that she be sentenced to the time she has already spent in jail awaiting trial. "I am stunned by the depth of the defendant's deception," Kiesel said. story continues below Sorokin was convicted last month on multiple counts of grand larceny and theft of services and has been in custody since her October 2017 arrest. Moments before she was sentenced, Sorokin briefly addressed the court, saying, "I apologize for the mistakes I made." Sorokin went by Anna Delvey when she defrauded financial institutions and Manhattan celebrities into believing she had a fortune of $67 million overseas that could cover her jet-setting lifestyle, high-end clothing, and lavish hotel stays. She falsely claimed her father was a diplomat or an oil baron, falsified bank records, and forged her identity to further the scam. In all, prosecutors accused her of stealing some $275,000, including a $35,400 bill she failed to pay for a plane she chartered to and from the Berkshire Hathaway shareholders meeting in Omaha, Nebraska. She went to great lengths to ensure others paid her way, even as she had "not a cent to her name, as far as we can determine," prosecutor Catherine McCaw said following Sorokin's arrest. (More on the wild story here.) Sorry! This content is not available in your region London: Tata Motors-owned Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) is testing new "Smart Wallet" technology, which would enable future drivers of the luxury cars earn cryptocurrency and make driving related payments on the move. The UK's largest car manufacturer said the "earn-as-you-drive" tests would mean future owners of its models earn credits by enabling their cars to automatically report useful road condition data, such as traffic congestion or potholes to navigation providers or local authorities. Drivers could then redeem their rewards, such as free coffee, or use them to automatically pay tolls, parking fees and for smart charging electric vehicles. "Smart Wallet removes the need for drivers to hunt for loose change or sign up to multiple accounts to pay for a variety of everyday services," JLR said in a statement. Unlike other similar systems, due to its structure, Smart Wallet would require no transaction fee to operate and over time transactions will get faster across the entire network, forecast to include some 75 billion connected devices by 2025. Drivers could also top-up their Smart Wallets using conventional payment methods, JLR said. JLR, the UK-based car giant, was acquired by Tata Motors in 2008. "The connected car technologies we are developing will be transformative and truly turn your Jaguar or Land Rover into a third space, in addition to your home or office," said Russell Vickers, JLR Software Architect. "In the future an autonomous car could drive itself to a charging station, recharge and pay, while its owner could choose to participate in the sharing economy? earning rewards from sharing useful data such as warning other cars of traffic jams," he said. Smart Wallet, which uses the latest cryptocurrency technology, involves a JLR partnership with next-generation blockchain IOTA Foundation to harness "distributed ledger" technologies to make and receive such payments. "Our distributed ledger technology is perfectly suited to enable machine-to-machine payments for smart charging, parking and tolls, in addition to creating opportunities for drivers to earn their own digital currency," said Holger Kother, Director of Partnerships at IOTA Foundation. The advanced connected technology is being trialled at the new Jaguar Land Rover software engineering base at Shannon in the Republic of Ireland, where engineers have already equipped several vehicles, including the Jaguar F-PACE and Range Rover Velar, with Smart Wallet functionality. Nick Rogers, Executive Director of Product Engineering at JLR, said: "Working with our engineering hub in the UK, the team in Shannon are pioneering and testing these sophisticated connected technologies that will help people to make the most of the time they spend in their car." "Jaguar Land Rover is embracing autonomous, connected, electrified and shared mobility technology as we endeavour to make cars safer, cleaner and smarter for everybody." The Irish R&D facility is focussed on developing new technologies to support electrification and self-driving features on future Jaguar and Land Rover vehicles. Supported by the Irish Development Agency, JLR said its team at Shannon is also developing the next generation of electrical architecture as well as exploring advanced driver assistance systems features for future vehicles. The company said the technology research forms part of JLR's Destination Zero strategy, which aims to achieve zero emissions, zero accidents and zero congestion. New Delhi: Ahead of polling for the Lok Sabha Elections in the national capital on Sunday, two cows were found dead in a park in east Delhis Trilokpuri on Wednesday, leading to stepping up security. The area is said to be communally-sensitive and following the incident tension prevailed. The police were informed by a dairy owner at 6 am that two of his cows were lying dead in Sanjay Jheel Park opposite Kotla village, said a senior police officer. The dairy owner would usually leave his cows in the park because of lack of space. The cows would gaze there. However, when the dairy owner visited the park in the morning, he found that two of them were missing, the police said. Later, he found the two cows dead in the park following which he informed police, the officer said. When police reached the spot, they found that the two cows had been killed while others were safe. Taking serious note of the killing of two cows in Trilokpuri, Delhi Minorities Commission (DMC) chairman Dr Zafarul-Islam Khan wrote to Delhi Police Commissioner warning him that miscreants may try to use the incident to trigger violence ahead of May 12 polling in the city. According to the dairy owners son, Our neighbour informed us around 5.30 am Wednesday that two cows were lying in the park with severe injuries. When we reached the spot, we found the two carcasses. We immediately called police and informed them about the incident, he said. The dairy owners son said his family was in the dairy business for the last 40 years and they had 15 cows. Nothing like that happened before, he said. The bodies were sent for autopsy to find the cause of death, the officer said. A case has been registered under Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act and relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code against unidentified persons, he said, adding additional security has also been put in place as it is a communally sensitive area. There are no CCTV cameras in the area, police said, adding they are using local intelligence. The DMC chairman asked the police to ensure peace and tranquillity in the area and arrest the criminals involved in the incident. New Delhi: JKBOSE 10th Bi-Annual Result 2019: Jammu and Kashmir Board of School Education or JKBOSE has announced the JKBOSE 10th Bi-annual 2019 Result for Kashmir Division today. The results are now available on jkbose.ac.in. The candidates can check their results now on the official website jkbose.ac.in. The JKBOSE 10th result 2019 was released late evening yesterday and are now available online. The candidates who have appeared for the examination are asked to keep all the details ready for the fast and easy access to the results. The declaration of the JKBOSE Class 10 Result have sealed the fate of thousands of students who have appeared for the examination. We here at News Nation are in close contant with our sources and will be updating all the latest updates here. Hence, we request the candidates to bookmark this page and check it regularly for all the updates on other classes. The JKBOSE 12th result 2019 Kashmir division is expected to be announced next week. JKBOSE conducted the examination from February 25 to March 14, 2019 for the Kashmir Division. CLICK HERE FOR JKBOSE CLASS 10 Bi-Annual RESULTS 2019 How to check the JKBOSE 10th Result 2019 online? Visit the official website of Jammu and Kashmir State Board of School Education (JKBOSE) jkbose.ac.in On the homepage, click on the link that reads, JKBOSE 10th Result 2019 Candidates will be taken to a new page Here, enter the Board roll number from your Matric or 10th admit card and click on the submit button The JKBOSE 10th Result 2019 will be displayed on the screen of your computer JKBOSE Class 10th Result Key figures of Last Year Number of Students appeared: 55,472 Number of Students passed: 38,939 Passing percentage of Boys: 76.41% Passing percentage of Girls: 74.40 % Overall Pass percentage: 75.44 About Jammu and Kashmir Board of Secondary Education The Jammu and Kashmir Board organises examinations for the 10th Class students all over the state. The students, who appear for the 10th Class examination, whether studying in private or government schools, are affiliated to Jammu and Kashmir Board. The Jammu and Kashmir Board of Secondary Education has been formed in the year 1975; from then onwards the board has taken the responsibility to conduct final examinations for 10th standard students. Apart from conduction of examinations, they also take the responsibilities to provide facilities such as computer labs, library and sports equipment. New Delhi: Taking a dig at Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath for not fulfilling the promise of distributing laptops to meritorious students, Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav on Thursday said that they have not fulfilled the promise because the 'Baba CM' does not know to operate one. Adityanath had taken over as the chief of the Gorakhpur math and temple from his mentor Avaidyanath. He was appointed Chief Minister of Indias most populous state after BJP getting an overwhelming three-quarter majority in the month of March. Free laptops for meritorious students was one of the poll promises of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Uttar Pradesh. A scheme for distribution of free laptops was started by the previous SP government in the state. The Samajwadi Party chief also slammed the BJP for spreading lies as it has realised that it will lose the general elections. "The BJP has nothing except hatred, and is spreading lies as it has realised that they are going to taste defeat. Their language has changed," Yadav said at an election rally here. He asserted that the opposition alliance is "defeating" the BJP in every phase of ongoing Lok Sabha Elections. "The alliance is going to win this election and it is continuously defeating the BJP in phases. They (the BJP) told a lie that better days have come, but Siksha Mitras know what type of 'acche din' (better days) have come. BJP people speak lies and they have snatched better days from the people," Yadav said. He claimed that the chief minister has "deceived" Siksha Mitras (basic teachers), who even faced a lathicharge in Lucknow and added that if his party comes to power, it will ensure employment and double the income of farmers. The SP chief also criticised the implementation of the Goods and Services Tax and demonetisation, saying, "The BJP claimed that after demonetisation, corruption will come under control but nothing happened." New Delhi: The BJP on Thursday once again targeted former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi to attack the Congress, saying that during the 1984 anti-Sikh riots, the instructions to kill came directly from the formers office. Its on record of Nanavati Commission that probed the 1984 anti-Sikh riots, the biggest genocide of India in which the government killed its own citizens, that instructions to kill came directly from the then PM Rajiv Gandhis office. The country awaits justice for this karma, the BJP tweeted. The latest attack on the late PM comes amid Prime Minister Narendra Modis continued attack on the former over the 1987 Bofors scam. Last week addressing a poll rally in Uttar Pradeshs Pratapgarh, Modi said that the life of Congress chief Rahul Gandhi's father and former PM Rajiv Gandhi had ended as "bhrashtachari number 1". Reminding the people about the 1984 anti-Sikh riots which saw killings on the streets of Delhi following the assassination of Indira Gandhi, Modi, during his rally in Delhi, said the Congress is talking about Nyay these days, but who will deliver justice to victims of 1984 anti-Sikh riots. These days Congress is talking about nyay (justice). Congress will have to answer for the anyay (injustices) suffered by the victims of the anti-Sikh riots of 1984. Congress will also have to answer how is it justified to appoint a riot accused as the chief minister of a state, PM Modi said. On Wednesday, PM Modi accused the Gandhi family of using warship INS Viraat as its "personal taxi" for a holiday when Rajiv Gandhi was at the helm. Addressing his first poll rally in Delhi ahead of the May 12 elections for all its seven seats, Modi launched a scathing counter-attack on the Congress, asking why it fumes when he exposes the "misdeeds" of its leaders in whose name it often seeks votes. Congress leaders, including its president Rahul Gandhi and general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, have hit out at Modi for his barb at their father, who was India's prime minister between 1984-89. "Ever imagined that a premier warship of the Indian armed forces could be used as a taxi for a personal holiday? One dynasty did it," Modi asked. The Navy was made to host the Gandhi family and Rajiv Gandhi's in-laws, and a helicopter was also deployed in their service, Modi claimed, adding that when a family becomes supreme, the country's security is at stake. "INS Viraat was insulted by using it as a personal taxi. This happened when Rajiv Gandhi and his family was out for a 10-day vacation. INS Viraat was deployed for securing our maritime boundary. But it was diverted to take the Gandhi family which was out for a vacation," Modi said. He also claimed that after picking up the Gandhi family, INS Viraat halted at an island for 10 days. "Rajiv Gandhi was accompanied by his in-laws who had come from Italy. Question is whether the security of the country was not compromised by taking foreigners onboard a warship," he asked. Sirsa: Congress chief Rahul Gandhi on Thursday renewed his attack over alleged corruption in the Rafale aircraft deal, this time responding to Prime Minister Narendra Modi calling his late father Rajiv Gandhi Bhrashtachari No. 1. He also took on the prime minister over unemployment, taunting Modi for a remark that selling `pakodas' is a job worth doing. If you have to talk about Rajiv Gandhi and about me, do so definitely, Gandhi said at an election rally in Sirsa. But first explain what you have done on the Rafale issue. You should also explain to the people your unkept promise of 2 crore jobs for the youth, he said. Did you give farmers the right price for their produce? Did you put Rs 15 lakh into bank accounts? the Congress leader said, claiming that the BJP government had not fulfilled its election promises. Gandhi said an industrialist friend of the prime minister benefitted from the Rafale agreement, a charge repeatedly rejected by the government. He said the prime minister who boasted of a 56-inch chest is not talking about farmers' issues and unemployment during these elections. In recent speeches, Modi has recalled Rajiv Gandhi' term as prime minister, referring to corruption charges against him and the alleged use of warship INS Viraat during a family vacation. He has also brought up the anti-Sikh riots around the time Rajiv Gandhi took over as prime minister after his mother Indira Gandhi's assassination. Rahul Gandhi claimed that the Congress has shown through farm loan waivers by its governments in Punjab, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Rajasthan that the party keeps its promises. He claimed when a BJP leader asked a question at a Madhya Pradesh rally whether the Congress government there had waived farm loans, the crowd said, Yes, it has been done. He claimed that unemployment in the country is the highest in decades. "This is Modi's contribution," he said. "Make in India, start up India, sit down India, pakodas, the Congress leader said, mocking the schemes started by the Modi government. Initially, he talked about Make in India, then Startup India, then Stand-Up India and finally he ended on pakodas," Gandhi said. In an interview last year, the prime minister had given pakoda-selling as an example of worthwhile employment. Gandhi accused Modi of spreading hatred. "Wherever he goes, there is hatred. In Haryana, one community is made to fight against the other. When he goes to Tamil Nadu, he will criticise somebody. In Maharashtra, he will speak against the people of Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. People of one religion are made to fight against the other, Gandhi said. He asked the prime minister to explain what has been achieved in his term. "I want to ask you what you have done in the last five years. What have you given to the country?" Gandhi said. He claimed that Nyay, the income support scheme promised by the Congress if it comes to power, will remonetise the economy which he said had been dealt a blow by demonetisation. "I am giving you the guarantee that not even a single penny will be charged from the middle class or any other section, and they will not be taxed for the Nyay scheme," he said. The opposition leader said funds for the scheme will come from the pockets of those rich industrialists who have been given ?undue favours? under the Modi regime. Gandhi was addressing the rally in support of Haryana Congress president Ashok Tanwar, who is contesting from Sirsa. Tanwar is pitted against Indian National Lok Dal's sitting MP Charanjeet Singh Rori and Bharatiya Janata Party's Sunita Duggal. Ghulam Nabi Azad, the Congress general secretary in charge of Haryana, also addressed the meeting. Polling for Haryana's 10 Lok Sabha seats will be held in the sixth phase on May 12. (With PTI inputs) New Delhi: Even though the Narendra Modi government claims to have a healthy economy, one of the prime minister's economic advisors has that the country's economy was heading towards a structural slowdown. Rathin Roy, member of the Prime Minister's Economic Advisory Council and Director of National Institute of Public Finance and Policy, said that India's economy was running into a structural crisis and may soon join the "middle-income" countries such as South Africa and Brazil. "We are heading for a structural slowdown. This is an early warning. The economy since 1991 has been growing not on the basis of exports... but on the basis of what the top 100 million (10 crore) of the Indian population wants to consume," NDTV quoted Roy as saying. Roy said that those 10 crore Indian consumers, who were powering the country's economy, have now started to plateau out and India eventually will become like Brazil and South Africa with large number of poverty leading to increased crimes. "It means in short we will not be South Korea. We will not be China. We will be Brazil. We will be South Africa. We will be a middle-income country with large numbers of people in poverty seeing rising crimes. In the history of the world. Countries have avoided the middle income trap but no country once in it, has been able to get out of this," he said. The remarks by one of the prime minsiter's economic advisors came days after the Finance Ministry, in its monthly economic report for March revealed that the country's economy have slowed down in 2018-19 due to lower private consumption, tepid growth in fixed investment and muted exports. The Central Statistics Office (CSO), which released the national account data for the third quarter, had in February revised downwards the growth estimate for 2018-19 fiscal to 7 per cent from 7.2 per cent. The 7 per cent growth is the lowest in 5 years. The Opposition parties have been criticisng the Narendra Modi government for "destroying" the Indian economy by its "disastrous decisions" such as demonetisation and "poorly implementated" Goods and Services Tax (GST). New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modis allegation that the late Rajiv Gandhi used INS Viraat as "personal taxi on a family vacation has led to a political storm with a series of claims and counter-claims. PM Modi, at a rally on Wednesday, accused the Gandhi family of using warship INS Viraat as its "personal taxi" for a holiday when Rajiv Gandhi was at the helm, launching a fresh attack on the late Congress leader days after throwing the "bhrashtachari no 1" barb at him. "Ever imagined that a premier warship of the Indian armed forces could be used as a taxi for a personal holiday? One dynasty did it," PM Modi had asked. The Navy was made to host the Gandhi family and Rajiv Gandhi's in-laws, and a helicopter was also deployed in their service, he claimed, adding that when a family becomes supreme, the country's security is at stake. "INS Viraat was insulted by using it as a personal taxi. This happened when Rajiv Gandhi and his family was out for a 10-day vacation. INS Viraat was deployed for securing our maritime boundary. But it was diverted to take the Gandhi family which was out for a vacation," PM Modi had said. Commander V K Jaitly, who was posted on INS Viraat at that time, backed the PMs claim, saying that the warship was used by Rajiv and Sonia Gandhi to celebrate their holidays. Rajiv and Sonia Gandhi used INS Viraat for travel to celebrate their holidays at Bangaram island. Indian Navy resources were used extensively. I am a witness. I was posted on INS Viraat that time. Commander VK Jaitly, he said. On the other hand, former Navy chief Admiral (retd) L Ramdas as well as a former commanding officer of the aircraft carrier rejected the PM's allegation. Ramdas, who was the Southern Navy Commander then and was also onboard the INS Viraat, in a statement, said "no foreigners visited INS Viraat and that the prime minister and his wife were onboard the aircraft carrier" following all official protocol. "I would like to state unequivocally, that this was not the case," he said referring to the media report which was cited by Modi. Ramdas said he issued the statement after getting written responses on the issue from Vice Admiral Pasricha, Admiral (retd) Arun Prakash, who was commanding INS Vindhyagiri and Vice Admiral (retd) Madanjit Singh, who was the commanding officer of INS Ganga. Ramdas also asserted that, "no ships were specifically diverted for personal use of the Gandhi family. Only one small helicopter was left at Kavratti to meet any emergency medical requirements of the PM and his wife." Meanwhile, Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera said retired Indian Navy Vice Admiral Vinod Pasricha has clarified that the then Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi was on an official visit on INS Viraat and not on a vacation. "But facts don't matter to Modi. He doesn't have anything to talk about his own achievements. Rahul Gandhi has been challenging him for last six months now to debate on Rafale deal, demonetisation, unemployment, but Modi does not have the courage to speak," he said at a press conference. "We are now hearing that. Modi ji tells us that 30 years ago Rajiv Gandhi went for a holiday in INS Viraat. Prime Minister is a serial liar. A senior official has exposed his lies today. Vice Admiral (retd) Vinod Pasricha appeared on channels some time back and stated that this is a lie and the then PM was on an official visit and not on a holiday," he said. Wajahat Habibullah, who was the then administrator of Lakshwadeep, has also refuted PM Modis claim, saying that while INS Viraat was stationed in Lakshwadeep but the Gandhis were not holidaying aboard the ship. INS Viraat was in the sea for the PM's backup security. The Prime Minister needs backup security and in the middle of the ocean, there's no other option other than warships, habibullah was quoted by India Today as saying. Rajiv Gandhi went to Lakshwadeep on an official meeting and decided to stay back when his guests also joined him. No foreigner or even the guests were allowed onboard INS Viraat, he added. He went on to slam PM Modi for raking up the issue and termed it as violation of the Model Code of Conduct. Union minister Arun Jaitley took a potshot at the UPA government, saying that while the kaamdars used Indias naval fleet to strike at terror, naamdars used them for personal reasons. Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman defence PM Modis statement and claimed that a crew of INS Viraat confirmed to her that Rajiv Gandhis family and his in-laws misused the warship. The India Today report cited by PM Modi, which was originally published on January 31, 1988, states that Rajiv and his family were accompanied by Amitabh Bachchan and his family as well. Apart from Gandhis and Bachchans, guests at the warship included two other Indians wife and daughter of Bijendra Singh, brother of former Union minister Arun Singh, and two other foreigners. Questionable actions were, however, in evidence. India's premier warship, INS Viraat, was used to transport the Gandhis and moved in the Arabian Sea for 10 days. Its daily expenditure at sea is astronomical as the Viraat travels with an entire retinue of escort ships. A submarine was also reported to be in attendance and some defence experts questioned the justification of depriving the navy of its most effective fighting component merely to suit Rajiv's holiday plans. Considerable expense was also incurred in setting up a special satellite link up at Agatti for the duration of the holiday, the India Today report said. New Delhi: Slamming Prime Minister Narendra for his allegations that West Bengal government is establishing mafia raj in coal mines, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday challenged him to prove it or else do a100 sit-ups while holding his earsa before the public.A A "Modi has said the Trinamool candidate is coal mafia. I challenge him, prove it. If you are lying, you have to hold your ears and do a hundred Utthak Baithak (sit-ups)," Mamata Banerjee said. West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee in Bankura: I challenge you (PM Modi) if you can prove your allegations that one of us is part of coal mafia, I will withdraw all my 42 candidates. If you are lying, you have to hold your ears and do a hundred sit ups before public. pic.twitter.com/mBQT59MP4J a ANI (@ANI) May 9, 2019 The trinamool chief also said that she would withdraw her party's nominees in all 42 Lok Sabha constituencies in West Bengal if the prime minister would prove the charge against even one candidate. "You know better how Trinamool's mafia raj is continuing in coal mines here. Trinamool leaders are making money while mines workers are deprived of their remuneration," PM Modi had said at an election rally in Bankura. He also took a dig at Mamata for her aslap of democracya saying that her slap would be a blessing for him as he considers her his sister. On Tuesday, the West Bengal CM had said that PM Modi should get a "tight slap of democracy" and asserted that he will not get a second term in office as he failed to bring in 'acche din' that he had promised in 2014. The prime minister said "I am told Didi has said she wants to slap me. I call you Didi, I respect you. Your slap will be a blessing for me."A He also said Mamata is insulting the Constitution by saying that she is not ready to accept him as the prime minister of the country. Banerjee had said in a rally that she does not accept Narendra Modi as the prime minister of the country describing him as the "expiry PM" and that she will talk to the new prime minister after the election results.A "She did not take calls from me during the cyclone. The Central government wanted to sit with officers of the state to discuss the situation, but Didi did not allow that too," Modi said. Amritsar: Union Minister Nitin Gadkari has warned Pakistan that India will not hesitate to stop water of rivers flowing to that country if Islamabad does not end its support to terrorism. "The Union government is already making a road map to stop water of rivers flowing from India into Pakistan," he said. Gadkari was speaking while campaigning for Amritsar BJP candidate Hardeep Puri. The minister said that the government is planning to build six water dams in Punjab, Haryana, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan and this step would solve the water problem enormously. There was water treaty between India and Pakistan in 1960 and its basis was peaceful relations, but if the present face of terrorism is not changed, in such circumstances, India wouldn't take much time to take the harsh decision of stopping river water to Pakistan, the senior BJP leader said. He said that the excess water will be given to Punjab and Haryana to address shortage in agriculture. On river water distribution between Punjab and neighbouring Haryana, he said that the issue has to be sorted out without disturbing the water available to Punjab. Elaborating on the development work undertaken during the BJP-led NDA rule, he said that the Modi Government did what was not done in the last five decades. He said that the government was planning to begin double decker air bus service in six cities, including Amritsar. In order to promote industry and business Union, the government was planning to build Delhi-Amritsar-Katra Expressway which would reduce the journey time by four hours between Amritsar and Delhi. New Delhi: Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh on Wednesday called actor-turned-politician Sunny Deol a showpiece after he said that he doesnt know much about the Balakot airstrikes and India-Pakistan relations. A video of him making admission has gone viral on social media. "While (Prime Minister Narendra) Modi has been taking credit for Balakot, this man (Sunny Deol) does not even know what had happened there," NDTV quoted Captain Amarinder Singh as saying. The BJP has pitted the 62-year-old actor against sitting MP and Punjab Congress president Sunil Jakhar. Amarinder Singh also attacked Sunny Deols step mother Hema Malini saying "these actors are just showpieces. Hema Malini did not open her mouth once in the Lok Sabha, where she represented Mathura for five years." Sunny Deol, Bharatiya Janata Partys Gurdaspur candidate had told NDTV, I do not know much about issues like Balakot strikes or India's relations with Pakistan. I am here to serve people; if I win maybe I will have an opinion, right now I don't." Earlier, Sunny Deol had said he is focused on the task ahead and is not affected by his opponents dubbing him an "outsider". "People keep asking me this question (on rivals dubbing him an outsider) and I say, I am not here to reply to what all is being said. "I have come here to work and serve the people, I have come here to do my job. My job is to understand my people, my constituency, Deol said during his campaign trail here. The son of veteran actor and former MP Dharmendra, Deol has been accused by the opposition of having no understanding about Punjab, and has been termed an "outsider" and a "parachute" candidate. New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Thursday dismissed the petition seeking to direct the Election Commission of India (ECI) to debar Congress President Rahul Gandhi from contesting the Lok Sabha polls after he had "voluntarily acquired British nationality". "We dismiss the petition. There is no merit in the petition," said CJI Ranjan Gogoi. The petition was filed by two social-political activists of the United Hindu Front and Hindu Mahasabha seeks to disqualify Gandhi from contesting elections in India. It also wants his name to be removed from the electoral roll. The plea is likely to be heard by the top court next week. The petition comes after the home ministry sent a notice to Gandhi seeking clarification on his citizenship status acting on a complaint filed by BJP lawmaker Subramanian Swamy. The home ministry had asked the Congress chief to intimate factual position of his citizenship within a fortnight. The notice dated April 29, 2019 stated that Swamy had told the ministry that a company named Backops Limited was registered in the United Kingdom in the year 2003, with address 51 Southgate Street, Winchester, Hampshire SO23 9EH and that you (Rahul Gandhi) were one of the Directors and Secretary of the said Company. The notice also added that Swamy in his complaint had also claimed the two annual returns filed by the company had stated Gandhis date of birth as 19/6/1970 and these returns also stated Gandhi as British Citizen. This is not the first time that Gandhis citizenship issue has reached the top court. In 2015, ML Sharma had filed a PIL against Gandhis citizenship status. Then Chief Justice of India HL Dattu had dismissed the petition. The top court had said, a time may come when anybody who is a little sensitive starts filing PILs. Gandhis citizenship has been raked by his political opponents in this election season. On April 22, the District Magistrate Court found Gandhis Amethi nomination valid and rejected all Raul Vinci objections raised by other Independent candidates. Gandhis lawyer KC Kaushik was present in the court to argue on his clients behalf. On the objections raised over Gandhis nationality, Kaushik said that Gandhi was born in India and he holds an Indian passport, he never took citizenship of any other country. His passport, Voter-ID, and his income tax, everything is of India. I don't know who Raul Vinci is or where he came from. Rahul Gandhi had done his M Phil in 1995 from University of Cambridge, I have attached a copy of the certificate, he had added. On April 20, an independent candidate Saturday raised objections over the Congress president's nomination from Amethi, alleging discrepancies over citizenship and educational qualifications in his election affidavit. Citing the complaint, the BJP said in New Delhi asked Gandhi to come clean on the matter. Complainant Dhruv Lal's lawyer Ravi Prakash showed reporters purported copies of a certificate of incorporation of a UK-registered company in which the Congress leader is stated to be a British national. New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Thursday rejected a plea filed by ex-BSF soldier Tej Bahadur Yadav against the Election Commission's decision to bar him from contesting elections against Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Varanasi. Yadav, who was sacked from the BSF after he questioned the poor quality food being served to the soldiers posted along the border with Pakistan, had filed his nomination from Varanasi against PM Modi. However, the Election Commission cancelled his nomination after it allegedly found discrepancies in his two affidavits. The Election Commission had reportedly said that sacked government employees cant contest the elections for five years. The poll body had also issued a notice to Tej Bahadur seeking to explain the alleged discrepancies his affidavits. The ex-soldier had filed his nomination twice - first time as an independent and second time on Samajwadi party's ticket. In his first nomination as an independent candidate, he reportedly mentioned in his affidavit that he was sacked by the BSF but didnt mention the information in his second affidavit as Samajwadi Party candidate. Yadav, first shot to fame in 2017 after he posted a video complaining about the poor quality food was being served to the soldiers posted at India-Pakistan border. The video went viral on social media, prompting the government to order an official inquiry. However, four months after going public with his complaint, he was sacked by the BSF allegedly for "making false allegations". After the cancelation of Yadav's nomination, the SP, which is in an alliance with the Bahujan Samaj Party and the Rashtriya Lok Dal, had again fielded Shalini Yadav as its candidate from Varanasi. They party had held back Shalini Yadav after it offered support to Tej Bahadur. Varanasi will go to polls in the seventh phase of the Lok Sabha election on May 19. New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has questioned the claims made by his predecessor Manmohan Singh over the surgical strikes in the UPA regime. In an interview to The Hindustan Times, PM Modi said that he had no idea about any such military action conducted by the previous government as there were no proof supporting the claims. What kind of surgical strike was it? Who issued the orders? Where are the orders? These are the questions they (UPA) should be asked to answer, PM Modi was quoted as saying. Multiple surgical strikes took place during our tenure, too. For us, military operations were meant for strategic deterrence and giving a befitting reply to anti-India forces than to be used for vote garnering exercises. In the past 70 years, a government in power never had to hide behind the valour of our armed forces. Such attempts to politicize our forces are shameful and unacceptable, Manmohan Singh said in an interview to HT recently. Singh slammed the Narendra Modi government of turning a blind eye to the video warning of Jaish-e-Mohammed and solid intelligence inputs from Jammu and Kashmir police about an IED attack. The Balakot air strikes have been one of the key issues during the ongoing polls with the ruling BJP making it nationalism as the key point of its poll campaign. In a related development, Francesca Marino, a foreign journalist, has confirmed that up to 170 terrorists of the Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terror group were killed in the Indian Air Force air strikes on February 26. Marino earlier in an article wrote that eyewitnesses present at the site of India's February 26 bomb strikes against a JeM base saw up to 35 bodies were being transported out of the the site by ambulance hours after the attack. The dead, they recounted, included 12 men who were said to have been sleeping in a single temporary shack, and several individuals who had earlier served in Pakistan's military. New Delhi: Hitting back at Prime Minister Narendra Modi over his allegation that late Rajiv Gandhi used warship INS Viraat as his "personal taxi", the Congress on Thursday accused the former of using Indian Air Force jets as his "own taxi" for election trips and paying "as low as Rs 744". Citing a media report to attack PM Modi, Congress spokesperson Randeep Surjewala said: "Distraction and fakery is your last resort. You have made Indian Air Force jets your own Taxi! You have paid as low as Rs 744 for using IAF jets for election trips!" "Scared of your own sins haunting u, you are shamelessly pointing fingers on others!" he added in his tweet. The media report, based on an RTI, said the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) paid a total of Rs 1.4 crore to the IAF for 240 "non-official domestic trips" made by Modi since the start of his tenure as prime minister till January 2019. "In some cases, the amount paid seemed to be quite low. For example, the BJP paid Rs 744 for a 'H/P Balangir-H/P Patharchera' trip by Modi on January 15, 2019," the report said. PM Modi, at a rally on Wednesday, accused the Gandhi family of using warship INS Viraat as its "personal taxi" for a holiday when Rajiv Gandhi was at the helm, launching a fresh attack on the late Congress leader days after throwing the "bhrashtachari no 1" barb at him. "Ever imagined that a premier warship of the Indian armed forces could be used as a taxi for a personal holiday? One dynasty did it," PM Modi had asked. The Navy was made to host the Gandhi family and Rajiv Gandhi's in-laws, and a helicopter was also deployed in their service, he claimed, adding that when a family becomes supreme, the country's security is at stake. "INS Viraat was insulted by using it as a personal taxi. This happened when Rajiv Gandhi and his family was out for a 10-day vacation. INS Viraat was deployed for securing our maritime boundary. But it was diverted to take the Gandhi family which was out for a vacation," PM Modi had said. In another tweet, Surjewala said that PM Modi's "lies" have been exposed by "Adm L Ramdass,Ex Chief of Naval Staff & then Fleet Officer,Commanding-In-Chief, Southern Naval Command -V Adm Vinod Pasricha,Commanding Officer,INS Viraat -Wajahat Habibullah, Adminstrator,Lakshadweep." Earlier, Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera said retired Indian Navy Vice Admiral Vinod Pasricha has clarified that the then prime minister Rajiv Gandhi was on an official visit on INS Viraat and not on a vacation. "But facts don't matter to Modi. He doesn't have anything to talk about his own achievements.(Congress president) Rahul Gandhi has been challenging him for the last six months now to debate on the Rafale deal, demonetisation, unemployment, but Modi does not have the courage to speak," he said at a press conference. Taking a swipe at Modi for making allegations against Rajiv Gandhi, Khera asked has any one read about former prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru saying that his next election will be against Mughal emperor Humayun, or Indira Gandhi making her entire campaign against Queen Victoria. "Modiji tells us that 30 years ago Rajiv Gandhi went for a holiday in INS Viraat. The prime minister is a serial liar. A senior official has exposed his lies today.Vice Admiral (retd) Vinod Pasricha appeared on channels some time back and stated that this is a lie and the then PM was on an official visit and not on a holiday," he said. Congress spokesperson Abhishek Singhvi told reporters on Thursday, adding to the long list of name calling by parties against each other in the ongoing Lok Sabha election. Singhvi alleged that PM Modi was spreading disinformation and lies about former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi taking his family on INS Viraat when he was in office and quoted former Navy chief Admiral (Retd.) L Ramdas and other Naval officers of the time that Gandhi was on an official visit then. "Lies, propaganda and canards can never succeed beyond a very short shelf-life. Truth has to triumph. Howsoever much the 'Bahut Jhooth Party' will try to spread disinformation, the people of India know the truth," he told reporters, adding that the people of India will not be swayed by such statements. The Congress leader accused Modi of "demeaning" the office of Prime Minister and said "you have regressed far from progressing". He asked what relation does Rajiv Gandhi's visit to a Naval ship have "in 2019, to the issue of jobs he promised in the air and to agricultural distress or demonetisation which crushed our MSMEs". New Delhi: Ayushmann Khurrana is known for making hits out of taboo subjects. The actor who made his Bollywood debut with Vicky Donor a film that deals with the subject of sperm donation and infertility among men and then went on to make Shubh Mangal Saavdhan that addressed the subject of erectile dysfunction, will soon be seen in a movie that delves into the subject of homosexuality. According to a report by Pune Mirror, the actor has teamed by with Shubh Mangal Saavdhan producer Aanand L Rai for the secound instalment of the successful franchise. The quirky entertainer will be directed by Hitesh Kewalya said the a source close to the filmamaker. It is expected to go on the floors in the last week of August. The film will be shoot all ain one schedule with the entire ensemble cast and will be released by 2020, Ayushmann will be joined by another actor for the lead role that is yet to be finalized According to producer Aanand L Rai of Colour Yellow Productions the success of Shubh Mangal Saavdhan encouraged them to turn it into a franchise which tackles taboo subjects in the most light-hearted manner. Talking about the movie, Ayushmann Khurrana says that its a beautiful story which will touch the hearts of the audiences and leave a smile on their face. " The Shubh Mangal Saavdhan franchise is our tribute to the churning that keeps our society alove, every installment will deal with a topic thta touches every person with great sensetivity and light humour. I anticioate a lot of conversations and cheer around the secound film too. The plot of the movie revolves around a conservative family that has to come in terms with the fact that their son is gay. Ayushmann will however wrap up Dinesh Vijan's Bala which kicked off on Monday and features him as a small town guy who is battling premature balding. it is directed by Amar Kashik of stree fame and also features Yami Gautam, Bhumi Padnekar, aved Jaffrey, Saurabh Shukla ans Seema Pahwa. For all the Latest Entertainment News, Bollywood News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. New Delhi: Unidentified gunmen shot at two Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) workers on Wednesday in Jammu and Kashmiras Shopian. The injured were abducted from a chemist shop in Zanapora area of Shopian. The injured were identified as Irfan Ahmad Lone, 28, son of Abdul Hameed Lone of Zainapora and Muzafar Ahmad Bhat, 30, son of Ghulam Mohmmad Bhat of Zainapora. Police have registered a case and started investigation. Taking to micro blogging website Twitter, PDP president and former Chief Minister, Mehbooba Mufti wrote, "Condemn the dastardly attack on PDP workers in Shopian. My heart goes out to these two bravehearts and I pray for their speedy recover. Only barbarians would kill innocents & cause bloodshed during the holy month of Ramzan. Their warped version of Islam has no place in our society (sic)," Mehbooba tweeted. Condemn the dastardly attack on PDP workers in Shopian. My heart goes out to these two bravehearts & I pray for their speedy recover. Only barbarians would kill innocents & cause bloodshed during the holy month of Ramzan. Their warped version of Islam has no place in our society. a Mehbooba Mufti (@MehboobaMufti) May 8, 2019 Earlier, three terrorists were killed inA south Kashmir's Shopian district. Security forces had launched a cordon and search operation in Adkhara area of Imam Sahib of Shopian district this morning following information about the presence of militants. The Indian Army has gunned down 41 terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir since Pulwama attack which claimed lives of 40 CRPF personnel, said Indian Army Lieutenant General KJS Dhillon on Wednesday. Out of those killed, 25 terrorists belonged to Jaish-e-Mohammed and 13 of them were Pakistanis.A A For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. New Delhi: Amid Prime Minister Narendra Modis allegation of Rajiv Gandhi using INS Viraat as a "personal taxi" breaking out a full-blown controversy, the journalist who broke out the story way back in 1988 said that the revelation did not create much controversy back then as media soon moved to other stories, particularly the Bofors scam, reported India Today. This was a matter of a sitting prime minister, so the Navy was tight lipped. The Navy is tight-lipped on controversies, not just in India, but other countries as well. News about Bofors scam had broken and that was obviously the focus then, than Rajiv Gandhi vacationing in Lakshadweep, journalist Anitha Pratap was quoted by India Today as saying. She added that the story was about the misuse of the warship and was a matter of concern even at that time. I have also mentioned about honourable men and women in the story. One can follow up with them on it as they will definitely not lie. They will tell the truth or not, thats a different story altogether, said. While addressing an election rally here on Wednesday, PM Modi cited an old India Today report to allege that Gandhi used the INS Viraat to go on a holiday with his friends and in-laws as if it was his "personal taxi". The report report cited by PM Modi, which was originally published on January 31, 1988, states that Rajiv and his family were accompanied by Amitabh Bachchan and his family as well. Apart from Gandhis and Bachchans, guests at the warship included two other Indians wife and daughter of Bijendra Singh, brother of former Union minister Arun Singh, and two other foreigners. Questionable actions were, however, in evidence. India's premier warship, INS Viraat, was used to transport the Gandhis and moved in the Arabian Sea for 10 days. Its daily expenditure at sea is astronomical as the Viraat travels with an entire retinue of escort ships. A submarine was also reported to be in attendance and some defence experts questioned the justification of depriving the navy of its most effective fighting component merely to suit Rajiv's holiday plans. Considerable expense was also incurred in setting up a special satellite link up at Agatti for the duration of the holiday, the India Today report said. However, on Thursday, contradicting PM Modis claim, Wajahat Habibullah, who was the then administrator of Lakshwadeep, said the late prime minister and his wife had come to attend a meeting of the Island Development Authority in Kavaratti which lasted for two days and after the official work got over, they left for Bangaram island to join the family and other guests. "His (Gandhi's) holidays had nothing to do with the official function. The Prime Minister (Modi) should check facts before making such statements," he said. Vice Admiral (Retd) Vinod Pasricha, who was commanding the ship during the then prime minister's visit, trashed reports that Gandhi's friends and as well as his wife Sonia's relatives were onboard the warship when he was enroute to Lakshadweep from Trivandrum. "All protocols were followed during Gandhi's official visit in 1987. No foreigners or other guests were present onboard the ship. The claim was totally wrong," Vice Admiral (Retd) Pasricha said when asked about Gandhi's visit in later part of 1987. He said Gandhi visited Lakshadweep to attend a meeting of the Island Development Authority, and his wife Sonia and his son Rahul were onboard the warship during the trip, adding the then PM also visited Bangaram during the two-day trip. Former Navy chief Admiral (retd) L Ramdas, who was the Southern Navy Commander then and was also onboard the INS Viraat, in a statement, said "no foreigners visited INS Viraat and that the prime minister and his wife were onboard the aircraft carrier" following all official protocol. "I would like to state unequivocally, that this was not the case," he said referring to the media report which was cited by Modi. Ramdas said he issued the statement after getting written responses on the issue from Vice Admiral Pasricha, Admiral (retd) Arun Prakash, who was commanding INS Vindhyagiri and Vice Admiral (retd) Madanjit Singh, who was the commanding officer of INS Ganga. Ramdas also asserted that, "no ships were specifically diverted for personal use of the Gandhi family. Only one small helicopter was left at Kavratti to meet any emergency medical requirements of the PM and his wife." However, another former Navy Commander (retd) V K Jaitly, in a tweet, said "Rajiv and Sonia Gandhi used INS Viraat for travel to celebrate their holidays at Bangaram island. Indian Navy resources were used extensively. I am a witness. I was posted on INS Viraat at that time." For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. New Delhi: The owner of a semi-built plot, where two workers died while cleaning a septic tank, was arrested for alleged negligence, police said on Wednesday. Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal met the family members of the victims in the evening and promised a compensation of Rs 10 lakh to the kin of the deceased. The BJP accused the Aam Aadmi Party dispensation of negligence, while the National Human Rights Commission sought a report from the Delhi government, the police and chief secretary. Earlier on Tuesday, two contractual workers died and three others were hospitalised after apparently inhaling toxic gas when they entered a septic tank of the plot at Bhagya Vihar area of Prem Nagar in Rohini. "Gulam Mustafa, the owner of the semi-built plot, has been arrested late on Tuesday night," Deputy Commissioner of Police (Rohini) S D Mishra said. The plot has a 10-foot-deep septic tank, in which Mustafa and a mason named Rambir allegedly asked two labourers to go inside for cleaning on Tuesday. The labourers refused to clean the tank since they were not trained, but they were forced to enter after being blackmailed with not getting paid three days of wages, the police had said. "The chief minister met us on Wednesday at around 6 pm and assured that the family of the deceased persons would get Rs 10 lakh and jobs," said Jaya Vardha, elder sister of one of the deceased. Vardha added Kejriwal told them that the injured persons would get free treatment and the government would bear there expenses. The NHRC issued notices to the chief secretary, Delhi government and the police commissioner, asking for a detailed report within six weeks. The commission has also asked the Delhi government to inform whether it had issued any guidelines prohibiting unauthorised construction and cleaning of septic tanks and, if so, why its strict compliance was not being ensured. It has directed the Delhi government to chalk out appropriate instructions to deal with the issue and inform. "The death of two workers due to inhaling poisonous gas during the cleaning of sewer in Prem Nagar area of Outer Delhi was due to the negligence of the Delhi government," Vijender Gupta, the leader of Opposition in the Delhi Assembly, said at a press conference. Gupta said that the AAP was "insensitive" to the plight of the sanitation workers, saying the latest incident proved the allegation. "These workers are from poor families, but their tragic death due to poisonous gas has again made it clear that the Delhi government is not serious about saving lives of manual scavengers from these accidents, their rehabilitation and improving the condition of working," he added. For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. New Delhi: Christian Michel, alleged middleman arrested in the AgustaWestland chopper scam, has accused jail officials of serving him boiled food which he said had made him lose 16 kg. Alleging that he was being treated like a monkey in a zoo, Michel said he had asked for European breakfast but was declined. Michel also complained of inmates defecating in the open in the prison and asking him to do so too, reported IANS. Following these allegations, a Delhi court has summoned Tihar Jail authorities. Special CBI judge Arvind Kumar summoned the jail authorities to appear in the court on Friday. Earlier, Christian Michels plea seeking a 7-day interim bail to celebrate Easter with family was rejected by the court. Special Judge Arvind Kumar had refused to grant the relief to Michel saying there are serious allegations against him of grave economic offence. "As per Enforcement Directorate, investigation on certain crucial aspects is still going on and the accused has a close link to many influential persons and accused may tamper with evidence and may abscond. Thus, considering the overall facts and circumstances, I do not find new ground for admitting the accused to interim bail. The application is dismissed," the judge said. The court also noted the submission of the counsel appearing for Michel who told the court that there is no medical emergency and he is seeking interim bail for general medical check-up of accused. "There is dispensary inside the jail which takes care of the medical condition of the inmates and they are referred to different hospitals by jail authorities as and when required. It is also noted that the jail authorities are admittedly allowing an accused legal interview with his lawyers, as per jail rules," the court noted. Special Public Prosecutor DP Singh, appearing for the CBI and the ED, opposed Michel's plea saying that India is a country of many festivals and thousands of prisoners have faith in various religions. The accused, therefore, can't be allowed to go out of jail to celebrate festivals. For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. New Delhi: With the crescent moon being sighted in various parts of India, the holy month of fasting for Muslims - Ramadan or Ramzan - has started on May 7. Ramzan which is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, involves rigorous fasting for Muslims between sunrise and sunset. During this 30-day period, Muslims do not consume food or water from dawn to dusk. They eat Sehri or Suhoor (a pre-dawn meal) and break their day-long fast with 'Iftar' in the evening. A typical Suhoor often includes bread, vegetables, fruits, yogurt, tea, as well as lentils and beans. At sunset, when it's time to mark the end of the daylong fast, families and friends gather for Iftar - the fast-breaking meal. Iftar refers to some lavish affairs of home-cooked platters of rice, stews and meat, as well as spreads of desserts and other sweets. However, the Sehri and Iftar timings vary from state to state based on the sunrise and sunset that change every day. Let's have a quick look at the Sehri and Iftar timings of Srinagar based on Islamic Month and Gregorian Calendar. READ | Ramadan Timetable 2019: Iftar and Sehri Timings in Hyderabad reference Ramzan 2019 Timetable: Iftar & Sehri Timings in Srinagar, India: RAMADAN TIME TABLE 2019 Srinagar RAMADAN DATE SEHR IFTAR 1 Mon 06 May 04:02 AM 7:19 PM 2 Tue 07 May 04:01 AM 7:20 PM 3 Wed 08 May 04:00 AM 7:21 PM 4 Thu 09 May 03:59 AM 7:21 PM 5 Fri 10 May 03:57 AM 7:22 PM 6 Sat 11 May 03:56 AM 7:23 PM 7 Sun 12 May 03:55 AM 7:24 PM 8 Mon 13 May 03:54 AM 7:25 PM 9 Tue 14 May 03:53 AM 7:25 PM 10 Wed 15 May 03:52 AM 7:26 PM 11 Thu 16 May 03:51 AM 7:27 PM 12 Fri 17 May 03:50 AM 7:28 PM 13 Sat 18 May 03:49 AM 7:28 PM 14 Sun 19 May 03:48 AM 7:29 PM 15 Mon 20 May 03:47 AM 7:30 PM 16 Tue 21 May 03:46 AM 7:30 PM 17 Wed 22 May 03:45 AM 7:31 PM 18 Thu 23 May 03:44 AM 7:32 PM 19 Fri 24 May 03:43 AM 7:33 PM 20 Sat 25 May 03:42 AM 7:33 PM 21 Sun 26 May 03:42 AM 7:34 PM 22 Mon 27 May 03:41 AM 7:35 PM 23 Tue 28 May 03:40 AM 7:35 PM 24 Wed 29 May 03:39 AM 7:36 PM 25 Thu 30 May 03:39 AM 7:37 PM 26 Fri 31 May 03:38 AM 7:37 PM 27 Sat 01 June 03:38 AM 7:38 PM 28 Sun 02 June 03:37 AM 7:38 PM 29 Mon 03 June 03:36 AM 7:39 PM 30 Tue 04 June 03:36 AM 7:40 PM The Ramzan month will be culminated with the celebration of Eid-ul-Fitr in the first week of June. Eid-ul-Fitr, which symbolises peace and brotherhood is marked with feasts and the faithful offers prayers at mosques and idgahs to seek blessings of the divine. People, especially children dress up in their traditional fineries to mark the festival that spreads the message of brotherhood and communal amity. For all the Latest Lifestyle News, Religion News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. Melbourne: Majority of Australians rate climate change as a bigger threat to the countrys interest compared to global terrorism, a study has found. Almost 64 per cent of Australians have called climate change as a critical threatan increase of six points from 2018 and 18 points since 2014, according to a poll by Lowy Institute on Australian attitudes on Climate change. "Six in 10 Australians have said that global warming is a serious and pressing problem and we should begin taking steps now even if this involves significant costs, continuing the dramatic reversal of attitudes since 2012, researchers said. Climate change topped the chart of a dozen possible threats to Australias vital interests in the next ten years. Other issues were Cyberattacks from other countries with 62 per cent seeing it as a threat apart from international terrorism (61 per cent) and North Koreas nuclear programme (60 per cent). The poll also confirmed Australians were more concerned about climate change this election than at any time. The poll was conducted for four days from March 12, both over the phone and online, and drew the results from a sample of 2,130 Australian adults. This year 61 per cent of voters said climate change was so serious and pressing we should address it now, even if was expensive. Only 28 per cent of people said climate change should be dealt with gradually, and 10 per cent said we should not act on climate change until we are sure its a problemthe lowest numbers since 2006 and 2008, respectively. For all the Latest Science News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. Los Angeles: More than 1,000 handguns and rifles have been seized in a raid on a mansion in an upscale neighbourhood in the US city of Los Angeles, law enforcement authorities said. The weapons seizure came from an anonymous tip that firearms were being sold illegally out of the home, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF) said. The house, which is mostly hidden from the street by high hedges, is located in the exclusive Holmby Hills area of Los Angeles, near the famed Playboy Mansion and the home of Jay-Z and Beyonce. Video footage taken by local television stations showed Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) officers and ATF agents inspecting enormous piles of handguns and rifles on grey tarpaulins outside the home. "Pursuant to an anonymous tip, ATF and LAPD became aware of an individual conducting illegal firearms (transactions) outside the scope of the federal firearm license that the individual possesses," the ATF said in a statement. "A large amount of firearms manufacturing equipment and tools have been recovered," the ATF said. "While the search warrant continues, there has been more than 1,000 firearms seized," it said. "ATF and LAPD have no reason to believe the public is in any danger." According to the police, one person was arrested and is facing charges of "unlawful transportation, giving and lending an assault weapon." He was identified by local media as Girard Damien Saenz, 56. "I've never seen so many weapons in my career of 31 years," LAPD Lieutenant Chris Ramirez told reporters. "That's such a big arsenal in a residence in this type of neighborhood," Ramirez said. "It's kind of astounding." The Los Angeles Times said the home where the weapons were seized belongs to Cynthia Beck, who is married to Gordon Getty, the son of oil tycoon J Paul Getty. The Times said Beck could not be reached for comment and it was unclear "what, if any, connection she had to Wednesday's events." For all the Latest World News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. New Delhi: At least five people were killed after Taliban militants attacked the offices of a US-based aid organisation in the Afghan capital on Wednesday. Taliban set off huge explosion, killing at least five people, the Interior Ministry said. The ministry's statement said four civilians and a police officer were killed and 24 others were wounded in the assault. Around 200 people were rescued from both buildings within the compound," it said. Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid said the group attacked the organisation because it was involved in "harmful Western activities" inside Afghanistan, without elaborating. The insurgents have rejected past cease-fire proposals, saying US and NATO troops must withdraw from the country first. The Taliban said they would continue their attacks during Ramadan, but would be "very careful of civilians during any operation." Last year the Taliban had announced a three-day ceasefire at the end of Ramadan after Ghani declared a unilateral truce for eight days earlier in the month. Last month, Taliban fighters had attacked a convoy carrying Afghanistans vice president Abdul Rashid Dostum, in an assault that left the former warlord unscathed but killed one of his bodyguards, an official told AFP. Enayatullah Babur, Dostums former chief of staff, said the hour-long attack also left several others in the convoy wounded. The attack occurred in the northern province of Balkh, where Dostum had held a rally earlier in the day. For all the Latest World News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. Kabul: A brazen attack on US-based aid group in Kabul by Taliban raised concerns on Thursday among other relief organisations that they could be targeted even as the insurgents hold peace talks with a US envoy. Authorities say Wednesday's assault on the Kabul office of Counterpart International, a group that promotes gender equity, killed at least nine people. It is to be noted that the Taliban set off a huge explosion and battled security forces for over six hours before they were repelled. Those killed included three Afghan employees of the organization and two of its security guards. On its website, Counterpart International said it was "devastated to have lost" members of its family in the "senseless attack." Abdul Halim Halim, head of Afghan Relief, an aid agency that provides education and assistance to returning refugees, expressed his concerns for more than 200 of the group's employees across the country. "The attack has us all worried for the future," he said. Afghan Relief has partnered on projects with Counterpart International in the past and Halim said they "urged everyone to be extra careful." Kabul residents living around the Counterpart International's offices described a deafening explosion that started Wednesday's attack and complained about deteriorating security in their homeland, more than 17 years since the US-led coalition ousted the Taliban. "I have no hope for the future," said Khan Barat, a money changer in the neighbourhood. "Every day Afghans are dying." Masiullah Malekazai, the manager of a nearby transportation company, said one of his employees was killed and another nine were wounded in the attack. Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid said Thursday the insurgents had targeted Counterpart International because it promotes "Western culture," including encouraging the mixing of the genders or taboo to the Taliban. Mujahid claimed the organization was also training Afghan security forces, without elaborating. The Taliban carry out daily attacks, even as they embarked on another round of talks with US peace envoy Zalmay Khalilzad in Qatar this week. On Wednesday, the Taliban attacked a police outpost in northern Balkh province, killing five policemen, according to provincial police spokesman Adil Adil. The talks between Khalilzad and the Taliban focus on US troop withdrawal and guarantees from the insurgents that Afghanistan would not again be used as a safe haven for terrorists. The Taliban sheltered Osama bin Laden and al-Qaida. The terror network's leader and bin Laden's successor, Ayman al Zawahri, is still believed to be in Taliban-controlled territory. Khalilzad is pressing for a cease-fire but the Taliban refuse, saying their fighters are reluctant to lay down their arms while foreign forces are still in Afghanistan. The US envoy is also pushing for new and expanded Afghan-to-Afghan talks, which were to be held last month, also in Qatar, but were cancelled when the two sides disagreed on participants. For all the Latest World News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. Tokyo: The US Navy on Thursday said that it has suspended its search for a Japanese air force F-35A stealth fighter that crashed off Japan's coast last month, after the allies scrambled to locate the aircraft filled with military secrets. The pilot is still missing. However, Japan's Defence Minister Takeshi Iwaya said that his country would continue its search. The US Navy said in a statement that it was withdrawing after its salvage vehicle, CURV 21, found unidentified debris from the aircraft. It crashed in the Pacific off the eastern coast of Aomori in northern Japan during a night training flight April 9. It went missing about half an hour after taking off from the Misawa air base with three other F-35As. The Navy was unusually quick in the salvage effort amid air and maritime activity in the region by China and Russia. It dispatched the guided-missile destroyer USS Stethem and P-8A Poseidon surveillance aircraft to join a Japanese search and rescue team. From April 9 to 17, the US search covered more than 5,000 square nautical miles (17,150 square kilometers) before deploying the remotely operated vehicle CURV 21, which is capable of salvage operation at the maximum depth of 20,000 feet (6,000 meters). Iwaya told the Upper House Diplomatic and Defense Affairs Committee that the U.S. salvage vehicle recovered parts of a flight data recorder but the flight data were missing. The joint effort using sonar search by the Japanese deep undersea vehicle Kaimei also located and recovered parts of a canopy and other equipment, he said. Iwaya said Japan's deep sea research vehicle has also withdrawn, but the surface and underwater search was continuing with the participation of Japanese Air Self-Defense Force vessels as well as a private salvage boat. "We will continue our search and recovery of the pilot and the aircraft that are still missing, while doing utmost to determine the cause," he said. The cause of the crash is under investigation, and findings could affect Japan's F-35 purchase plans, though officials say there is no change. Japan started deploying the expensive F-35s last year as part of the plan to bolster its defense spending and weapons capability to counter potential threats from North Korea and China. Under guidelines approved in December, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's government plans to buy 147 F-35s, including 105 F-35As, costing about 10 billion yen (USD 90 million) each. For all the Latest World News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. HRH the Premiers phone call to Qatari Amir was for exchanging Ramadan wishes and it doesnt signal any change in Bahrains political stance, confirmed HRH the Premiers Court yesterday. The phone call which was held between His Royal Highness the Premier and the Amir of Qatar was restricted to exchanging congratulations on the advent of the Holy Month of Ramadan, said a statement published by Bahrain News Agency (BNA). The call by the Prime Minister HRH Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa to Qatari Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani to exchange wishes on the first day of the Holy Month is a common tradition among GCC countries. The rare exchange amid a two-year embargo does not affect Bahrains commitment alongside Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Egypt to the implementation of the 2013 and 2014 agreements to which Doha had committed itself and the subsequent fair demands, clarified the Minister of Cabinet Affairs Mohammed bin Ibrahim Al Mutawa in a separate statement. There is no iota of truth to the claims posted by social media and their allegations about the statement are not in any way related to the reality on the ground, Al-Mutawa said adding: Social media interpretation of his statement on BNA was incompatible with the facts. The minister also affirmed that the phone call between His Royal Highness the Prime Minister and the Amir of Qatar does not represent the official position of the Kingdom of Bahrain. His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa yesterday received a cable of thanks from the President of Bahrain Chamber for Commerce and Industry (BCCI) Sameer Abdullah Nass. The BCCI head thanked HRH the Premier for his strong support to the commercials sector in the Kingdom and his continuous endeavours to elevate the status of Bahrain and promote its economic development. Bahrain is committed to upholding the values of pluralism, coexistence and moderation, in line with the aspirations of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, said HRH Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa. The Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander and First Deputy Prime Minister was visiting the Majlis of the Deputy Prime Minister, HH Shaikh Ali bin Khalifa Al Khalifa and the Majlis of the late Abdulla Ahmed Nass. Speaking on the occasion, HRH outlined the Kingdoms leading role in spearheading a wide range of initiatives that foster coexistence and peace, including promoting inter-faith dialogue. The Crown Prince pointed out that the Kingdom will continue to advance these fundamental efforts, with the firm conviction that they are the cornerstone of an advanced society. For their part, the Majlis hosts and guests expressed their gratitude for HRH the Crown Princes visit. HH Shaikh Isa bin Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa accompanied His Royal Highness during his Majlis visits. The final stages of IQRA, the annual Quran charitable reading competition, was held under the patronage of Her Highness Shaikha Zain bint Khalid Al Khalifa, spouse of His Highness Shaikh Ali bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, Deputy Prime Minister of Bahrain, The event, held in association with The Holy Quran Custody Society, for both men and women of all ages in the Kingdom, requires participants to recite and memorize the Holy Quran. Winners of the competition held at the Kooheji Majlis was honoured by Her Highness Shaikha Zain bint Khalid Al Khalifa and other dignitaries. The competition, with approximately 900 contestants, saw a diverse group of Bahraini men and women of all ages celebrating their deep-rooted cultural and Islamic values. Amena Thabit, under the 15-chapters category, was named the grand prize winner in the womens category. Commenting, Her Highness Shaikha Zain bint Khalid Al Khalifa said, It is a pleasure to see such intellectual and young individuals participating in competitions such as this, embracing our heritage and culture, while also creating a connection between themselves and the values of Islam. It is important to constantly encourage the younger generation to maintain such values throughout their lives. Rumors of inmates in Bahrain suffering from food poison refuted Rumors of inmates in Bahrain suffering from food poison refuted Reports on social media circulating cases of food poisoning among inmates in Bahrain have been refuted according to an official statement by the Ministry of Interior. Director-General of Reformation and Rehabilitation stated all inmates get the rights stated in the law Authorities urge citizens to verify such information from official sources. Iraq is close to signing a $53 billion, 30-year energy agreement with Exxon Mobil and PetroChina, Prime Minister Adel Abdul Mahdi said yesterday, denying any link between the mega-project and US permission for Iraq to do business with Iran. Iraq expects to make $400 billion over the 30 years the deal will be in effect, the prime minister said. The southern mega-project involves the development of the Nahr Bin Umar and Artawi oilfields and raising production from the two fields to 500,000 barrels per day (bpd) from around 125,000 bpd now, Abdul Mahdi said. The project is crucial to supplying water to oilfields in the south in order to boost pressure and keep production steady. Media reports had quoted Irans ambassador in London on Monday saying the United States would grant waivers to Iraq allowing it to deal with Iran economically, in exchange for Baghdad signing an oil deal with Washington. Talks now between the oil ministry and Exxon Mobil and PetroChina are focused on how to split profits if oil prices rise or decline, Abdul Mahdi said in response to a question on the obstacles holding up a final agreement. The deal lasts for 30 years and such financial details are sensitive and should be given more discussions, he added. In the rumbling row over Turkeys purchase of a Russia-made missile system, Ankara has been given an ultimatum to choose between the United States and Russia. But that ultimatum did not come from Moscow. In fact, the anti-aircraft squabble is a rare example of an ally of Russia being forced to choose sides. These days, Russia appears to prefer a new strategy of allowing its allies to maintain multiple allegiances, and remaining a friend to no one. It was the US vice president Mike Pence who recently warned Turkey that it must choose between relations with the US or Russia. Turkey has finalised the purchase of the S-400, which the US believes would be a threat to its own advanced F-35 fighter jets. Turkey also uses the jets, but the US has threatened to expel Turkey from the programme if the S-400 purchase goes ahead. Russia, by contrast, has not said much, except to suggest that the purchase of the S-400 is a done deal. Instead, Moscow has been more focused on being a power broker. In the past week, it has mediated on Syria with Turkey and Iran in Kazakhstan, as well as brokering a deal that released two Syrian prisoners from Israeli custody, in return for the remains of an Israeli soldier killed during the 1982 invasion of Lebanon. That negotiated swap instigated by Russia and carried out with a certain level of public ceremony did not stop Russia from also adding its name to a statement decrying Israels annexation of the Golan Heights. This projected even-handedness is meant to suggest a Russia that can negotiate deals, even between enemies, without taking sides. Even its alliance with Syria does not give Damascus carte blanche. In the run-up to the latest Astana conference, Bashar Al Assad was pushing for greater action on the province of Idlib; the regime has been shelling the area and now wants to retake it. But, just this weekend, Vladimir Putin, on a trip to China, ruled that out, saying, pointedly, that Moscow and our Syrian friends believed that the timing was wrong. The same applies to Iran. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and pro-Iranian militias operate in Syria, and work closely with Russia, but Russia has also switched off its air-defence systems around Syria to allow Israeli jets to target Iranian assets there. When Saudi Arabias King Salman went to Moscow in 2017, it was the first time a Saudi monarch had visited the country. A few months earlier, Irans Hassan Rouhani had his own official visit to Russia. Since then, Russia has sought defence deals with both regional rivals. In all these cases, neither the other relationships those countries have, nor Russias own ties have proven a hindrance. Russia is as keen to deal with Israel, which moves in lockstep with Washington, as it is with Syria, which has not had good ties with the US for decades. This faithless friend strategy is intriguing and contrasts with the historic desire of the United States to be seen as a stable partner. Part of the reason for behaving this way is a lack of choice. Most of the countries that Russia deals with are pro-American and intend to stay that way. In the case of bigger countries, such as Turkey and Egypt, Moscow simply cant offer enough to draw them out of Washingtons orbit. Doing piecemeal deals offers at least some leverage. For some countries, accepting Moscows overtures can be a way of signalling independence. Take Turkeys purchase of the S-400. The original belief was that Turkey, a member of Nato almost since the organisations founding, was merely flirting with Moscow in order to get the US to offer its own Patriot missile defence system. That may well still happen, although when the US did finally offer Patriots at the end of last year, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan turned them down. A further reason is that small deals and shifting alliances dont invite retaliation. During the S-400 row, the White House threatened Turkey with sanctions under a little-known law brought in two years ago. The Countering Americas Adversaries through Sanctions Act allows the US to sanction countries that trade with the Russian military sector. So far, it has not been used against any allies, but a big deal could provoke the US. There is also a power vacuum to consider. Under the Trump presidency, the US appears unsure of what it wants in the region, pulling troops out of Syria and signalling a reluctance to get involved in foreign affairs. The other two western countries that have traditionally played a role in the region are either preoccupied with internal affairs, such as the UK, or unable to project sufficient military force to replace the US, as is the case with France. With so much changing in the region and so rapidly, the strongest position is not to pick a side. Moscow has played this game cleverly, adopting a pragmatic approach, privileging military sales and diplomatic relations over enduring relationships, doing deals but also publicly distancing itself from close associations. This way, Russia is free to pursue its own interests, while remaining on relatively good terms with everyone. In a Middle East of shifting alliances, there is a great deal of benefit to being an unstable partner. Recent satellite photographs indicate Chinas construction of its third aircraft carrier is well underway, a Washington think tank reported Tuesday. ChinaPower, a unit of the Center for Strategic and International Studies, published photos of a large vessel under construction at the Jiangnan Shipyard in Shanghai. The bow and hull are already under assembly, the pictures indicated, and are likely to be the beginnings of the 80-85,000 tonne type 002 aircraft carrier the Chinese navy has been known to be planning. Visible through the clouds and mist is what looks to be a bow and main hull section of a large vessel, ChinaPower said. Chinas first carrier, the threedecade-old, 66,000 tonne Liaoning, was Soviet- built and acquired from Ukraine in 1998. The second, a home-built carrier designated Type 001A and based on the Liaonings design began sea trials, one year ago. ChinaPower said that, based on the photos, the Jiangnan shipyard appears to be building a new tower crane, a floodable ship basin and a launching channel to accommodate the huge new carrier. In a report published online, ChinaPower said the carrier is expected to be completed in 2022. H John Voorhees III / Hearst Connecticut Media BROOKFIELD Artists are encouraged to submit samples of their work to fill the librarys new gallery. Art of all sizes can be hung in the space in the librarys community room. Exhibits will run for four to eight weeks and will be available for public viewing and sale. 3 1 of 3 Michael Cummo / Hearst Connecticut Media Show More Show Less 2 of 3 Michael Cummo / Hearst Connecticut Media Show More Show Less 3 of 3 STAMFORD Kate Lombardo, executive director of the Food Bank of Lower Fairfield Avenue on Glenbrook Road, urges city residents to remember Saturday, the day before Mothers Day. In Lombardos field, the second Saturday in May is significant. Newtown Police Department NEWTOWN A Derby man was charged with assault following an on-the-job dispute in Sandy Hook last week. William C. Conroy-Delarosa, 20, was arrested last Thursday after Newtown police responded to Curtis Packaging Corporation on Berkshire Road around 6 a.m. for a reported assault. Matteo Salvini, Italy's most powerful politician, suffered his worst defeat in just under a year in government after his rival and coalition partner convinced the country's prime minister to oust an economic adviser to Salvini. Premier Giuseppe Conte, supported by ministers from the anti-establishment Five Star movement, pushed a decree through the Cabinet to remove Armando Siri amid a corruption probe. Five Star leader Luigi Di Maio and Salvini, who share power as deputy prime ministers, have spent most of their time in office squabbling over everything from taxes to regional autonomy to chemical castration for sex offenders. While Wednesday's decision marks a new low in the fractious relations between Salvini's League party and Five Star, the "day of reckoning" that Italian media had speculated about now looks likely to be postponed until after European Parliament elections in late May. The yield differential between Italian and German 10-year bonds is widening again after the latest round of tensions between the League and Five Star. The spread was at about 268 basis points, up 3 points, at 3:40 p.m. in Rome. The decision to remove Siri marks a break with the politics of the past, Di Maio said during a news conference after the cabinet meeting. "Politics needs to act before the law does," the Five Star leader said, to remove any questions of corruption. Five Star has long campaigned for cleaner government. Still, Di Maio reiterated that the government will serve its full term and said he backs a League proposal for a so-called flat tax. The Five Star leader also said he's ready to discuss Italy breaching European Union rules on a 3% budget deficit-GDP limit, echoing remarks by Salvini on Tuesday that unsettled markets. While Salvini and Di Maio are accustomed to locking horns, the League leader's relations with Conte may now also be compromised, with some party officials saying they no longer trust the premier to act as a neutral mediator between the two sides. The League opposed revoking Siri's mandate, but has "taken note of" the prime minister's decision, a party official said. There should not be an automatic assumption of guilt just because a probe is opened, the official said. Siri has denied any wrongdoing. Salvini told reporters after the cabinet meeting with the prime minister that he and the League have no lessons to learn on political morality. "Our candidates are unblemished," he said. Though Conte is not a member of either of the ruling parties, Five Star named him on a list of possible ministers before the 2018 national elections. Any action by the prime minister favoring Five Star was always likely to provoke the rightist League. Wednesday's Cabinet clash comes in the wake of a warning from the Brussels-based European Commission, which said Italy's fiscal situation will worsen this year and next because a pickup in the economy won't be strong enough to stop its debt and deficit rising. Salvini and Conte both issued blunt responses, with Five Star charging that the EU is out to get the populist government. The Cabinet decree calling for Siri's removal next goes to President Sergio Mattarella for formal approval. If youre planning some outdoor activities this weekend, Saturday will have the best weather. The National Weather Service says Saturday will be mostly sunny, with a high near 62 degrees. Sunday will be mostly cloudy with a high of just 54 degrees. The chance of rain is 50 percent most of the day, rising to 70 percent around 6 p.m. Showers will move into Connecticut early Friday morning and continue most of the day. A warm front moves north of the area on Friday and will be followed by a cold front passage Friday night. This will set the stage for a chance of thunderstorm after 3 p.m. Friday. In the last eight days of May, weve had seven days of measurable rain in the Danbury area. Rainfall amounts have ranged from a trace to 1.02 inches on Sunday, May. 5. Mays temperatures have averaged one degree below normal along the shoreline. Inland, temperatures have been warmer; Danburys average temperature is 2.2 higher than normal. Current data from the National Climate Center show that odds favor below normal temperatures and a wetter than normal pattern continuing through the middle of May across New England. The forecast Today: Mostly cloudy, with a high near 57. Northeast wind 6 to 9 mph becoming southeast in the afternoon. Tonight: A 30 percent chance of showers after 2 a.m. Cloudy, with a low around 48. Southeast wind around 8 mph. Friday: Showers likely, with thunderstorms also possible after 3 p.m. Cloudy, with a high near 64. Southeast wind 9 to 13 mph. Chance of precipitation is 70 percent. New rainfall amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms. Friday Night: A chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 50. South wind 6 to 10 mph becoming west after midnight. Winds could gust as high as 20 mph. Chance of precipitation is 50 percent. Saturday: Mostly sunny, with a high near 62. Northwest wind 8 to 10 mph. Saturday Night: A 30 percent chance of rain after midnight. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 46. Sunday: A 50 percent chance of rain. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 54. Sunday Night: Rain likely. Cloudy, with a low around 44. Chance of precipitation is 70 percent. Monday: Rain likely, mainly before noon. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 55. Chance of precipitation is 60 percent. The results strongly support recent calls by health groups for quick federal action to address what recent research has shown to be rapid increases in youth vaping across Canada. With the adoption of Bill S-5 on May 23rd 2018, the federal government opened the floodgates to widespread and aggressive marketing by vaping product manufacturers, including Big Tobacco. Advertisements have appeared on TV, on outside billboards and at point of sale, on subway walls, on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube, as well as massive in-your-face artistic installations and street events. Legislative vs regulatory action While Health Minister Ginette Petitpas-Taylor has come to recognize the urgent problem of youth vaping and nicotine addiction, the government's regulatory response has been limited to the launch of two consultations - one aiming to limit youth exposure to advertising and the other to regulate various attributes of vaping products including flavors, design and nicotine content. Health groups consider this approach wholly inadequate, pointing to the drawn-out regulatory process that could take years before any new measure is implemented1. The groups are reiterating their call for immediate legislative action, to be taken before the summer break. "Passing a bill can take as little as a few weeks if there is political will, while adopting regulations could take years. Tens of thousands more kids will become addicted to nicotine by the time new regulations will come into effect," explains Neil Collishaw, Research Director for Physicians for a Smoke-free Canada (PSC). "The general public appears to be just as outraged by the government's slow pace as we are. Seven out of 10 Canadians agree that the government needs to intervene in an urgent manner with concrete measures in order to fight this rampant, flagrant and reckless marketing that is resulting in the addiction of our kids." Bold measures needed Regulatory measures under consideration, as stated in Health Canada's Notice of Intent to regulate, would still permit nicotine e-cigarette ads on TV, on the Internet and in social settings like bars, in addition to sales over the Internet. "The proposed measures are clearly insufficient. Everyone knows that kids are better at navigating the Internet than their parents! And allowing Internet sales makes it easier to set up illegal distribution networks as well as online sharing of brand elements and other promotional images," says Michael Perley, Executive director on Ontario Campaign for Action on Tobacco. "86% of Canadians agree that the same advertising restrictions that apply to tobacco products should apply to vaping products: this includes 77% of smokers." "It's already hard to believe that our government is allowing the sale of easily-concealed, trendy devices resembling USB keys with pods that can deliver more nicotine than a pack of cigarettes, and that are incredibly popular amongst teenagers. The least parliamentarians can do is to take responsibility for this debacle and stop making it easy for the nicotine industry to continue to addict our kids. The longer these predatory marketing campaigns are allowed, the more kids will get addicted," adds Flory Doucas, co-director of the Quebec Coalition for Tobacco Control. "It's very disturbing to see the lack of urgency displayed so far by the Health Minister, who seems to see no problem in kicking this can well beyond the fall election at great cost to the health of our nation's children and youth." Les Hagen, Executive Director of Action on Smoking & Health, adds: "Every day, scores of young people are risking nicotine addiction and subsequent tobacco use. The government must move immediately to ban the blatant predatory marketing that it authorized last year while it continues to draft regulations for more complex measures that address product design, nicotine content and flavours. A vast majority of Canadians want advertising and marketing restrictions on vaping products aligned with those on tobacco products." ___________________ 1 According to Health Canada's "Forward Regulatory Plan: 2019 to 2021", a regulatory proposal is expected to be published in the Canada Gazette Part I for public comment period " in winter 2020". https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/corporate/about-health-canada/legislation-guidelines/acts-regulations/forward-regulatory-plan/plan/vaping-advertising-restrictions.html Local witnesses to the youth vaping phenomenon: Jennifer Kennedy ( Powell River, BC ) , vice-principal of Brooks High School : Ms. Kennedy's efforts to educate youth about the risks of nicotine vaping in made more difficult by the fact that advertising is allowed; vaping has skyrocketed at the school and the kids struggle with addiction is obvious: Contact : 604-483-3171. , vice-principal of : Ms. Kennedy's efforts to educate youth about the risks of nicotine vaping in made more difficult by the fact that advertising is allowed; vaping has skyrocketed at the school and the kids struggle with addiction is obvious: : 604-483-3171. Keith Axelson ( Terrace, BC ) , principal at Caledonia Senior High School: Mr. Axelson sharp increases in student vaping. There used to be a crowd of 20-25 smoking close to school grounds, and that has not increased to 50-70 students smoking and vaping (mostly vaping). He now has to deal with more discreet devices (USB-type), catching vapers in bathrooms, confiscating devices, disciplinary action, etc. He feels that kids are being misled by ads and other information on the Internet, that they are seduced by alluring flavours and that it's too easy to get them as they can be sold online. Contact : [email protected] , principal at Caledonia Senior High School: Mr. Axelson sharp increases in student vaping. There used to be a crowd of 20-25 smoking close to school grounds, and that has not increased to 50-70 students smoking and vaping (mostly vaping). He now has to deal with more discreet devices (USB-type), catching vapers in bathrooms, confiscating devices, disciplinary action, etc. He feels that kids are being misled by ads and other information on the Internet, that they are seduced by alluring flavours and that it's too easy to get them as they can be sold online. : Julie Gaalaas ( Camrose, AB ) , respiratory therapist, mother of two teenage daughters and local champion to reduce tobacco use: Ms Gaalaas was shocked to learn that both of her daughters were addicted to vaping products, which they continue to struggle with. Although she has discussed the harms of tobacco use with her daughters on numerous occasions over the years, the topic of vaping never came up until it was too late. Now she is working to educate other parents and policy makers regarding the growing phenomenon of youth vaping, but has to do this in a context that allows marketing seen by youth. Contact : 780-678-9142 or [email protected] , respiratory therapist, mother of two teenage daughters and local champion to reduce tobacco use: Ms Gaalaas was shocked to learn that both of her daughters were addicted to vaping products, which they continue to struggle with. Although she has discussed the harms of tobacco use with her daughters on numerous occasions over the years, the topic of vaping never came up until it was too late. Now she is working to educate other parents and policy makers regarding the growing phenomenon of youth vaping, but has to do this in a context that allows marketing seen by youth. : 780-678-9142 or Constable Joshua Maeda ( Edmonton, AB ), constable and school resource officer for the Edmonton Police Service who works at an Edmonton high school: Constable Maeda is very concerned about the rise in teen vaping and is often asked to intervene with students who are caught vaping at school, including taking disciplinary actions such as issuing fines and school suspensions. Youth vaping has become one of the leading causes of student suspensions in Edmonton high schools and the problem only seems to be getting worse, especially with the introduction of kiddie-vapes like Juul and Vype. Contact : 780-984-4103 or [email protected] SOURCE Quebec Coalition for Tobacco Control For further information: National: Neil Collishaw (Ottawa), Physicians for a Smoke-Free Canada: 613-297-3590; Provincial: Flory Doucas (Montreal), Quebec Coalition for Tobacco Control: 514-515-6780, Les Hagen (Edmonton), Action on Smoking & Health: 780-919-5546, Michael Perley (Toronto), Ontario Campaign for Action on Tobacco: 416-349-2992 or 416-709-9075 (cell) Related Links http://www.cqct.qc.ca/ OTTAWA, May 9, 2019 /CNW/ - The Government of Canada is committed to expanding market opportunities to reach its goal of $75 billion in annual agri-food exports by 2025. Today, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food Marie-Claude Bibeau departs for Japan to participate in the G20 Agriculture Ministers' Meeting in Niigata and to build stronger relationships with our trading partners to help grow the economy and create good, well-paying jobs for Canadian farm families. This year's G20 meeting will focus on three core themes - innovation, value chains and the sustainability of the sector. Minister Bibeau will work with her fellow G20 Agriculture Ministers to find new ways to foster innovative technologies and practices that will help farmers prosper, reduce food waste, and mitigate their impact on climate change. While in Niigata, Minister Bibeau will take the opportunity to meet with officials from various G20 countries to advance Canada's agricultural trade interests and discuss new ways of diversifying into markets that have emerged through Canada's recent free trade agreements. With the Canada-European Union Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) and Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) now in force, Canada is the only G7 nation that has free trade agreements with all other members across the Americas, Europe and the Asia-Pacific. The Minister will conclude her visit in Tokyo where she will meet with key Japanese industry organizations from the grains, oilseed and meat sectors to emphasize the mutual importance of rules-based trade and the countries' long-standing partnership. Canada is committed to exploring opportunities to open new markets for Canadian agri-food products, including canola. Japan is an important partner in the CPTPP, and represents one of Asia's fastest growing economies. Quotes "The G20 provides an excellent forum for discussing emerging issues affecting the agriculture and agri-food sector. With my counterparts from the world's major economies, we will discuss the importance of a reliable and science-based international trading system, global animal health issues and innovation. I will promote our high-quality Canadian products and the commitment of our producers to maintain our competitiveness in global markets." - Marie-Claude Bibeau, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food "We all benefit from an open, transparent and rules-based multilateral trading system. Canada remains committed to increasing trade by diversifying into new markets, particularly the thriving Asia-Pacific region. We will continue to work with the canola sector to identify new opportunities for their high-quality products and my upcoming trade mission to Japan and South Korea will strengthen our connections in the region." - Minister Carr, Minister of International Trade Diversification Quick Facts The G20 is a forum of the world's major economies that meets to develop policies to address the world's most pressing challenges. It is made up of 18 countries besides Canada , as well as the European Union. The 18 countries are Argentina , Australia , Brazil , China , Germany , France , India , Indonesia , Italy , Japan , Mexico , Russia , Saudi Arabia , South Africa , South Korea , Turkey , the United Kingdom and the United States . , as well as the European Union. The 18 countries are , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , the and . In 2018, Canada exported nearly $4.6B in agriculture and agri-food and seafood products to Japan . exported nearly in agriculture and agri-food and seafood products to . The Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) is one of the largest free trade agreements in the world 11 countries representing nearly 500 million people, with a combined GDP of $13.5 trillion , or 13.5% of global GDP. , or 13.5% of global GDP. The CPTPP will eliminate tariffs on all canola products exported to member countries within five years, opening up an estimated $780 million in new sales annually. Associated links Follow us on Twitter: @AAFC_Canada Like us on Facebook: CanadianAgriculture SOURCE Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada For further information: Justine Lesage, Press Secretary, Office of the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, [email protected], Mobile: 613-404-1168; Media Relations, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Ottawa, Ontario, 613-773-7972, 1-866-345-7972, [email protected] Related Links http://www.agr.gc.ca/ Added approximately $300 million to consolidated backlog Reported a strong book-to-bill ratio of 1.36 to 1.00 Declared its 33rd consecutive quarterly dividend CALGARY, May 8, 2019 /CNW/ - Stuart Olson Inc. (TSX: SOX, SOX.DB.A) ("Stuart Olson" or the "Company") today announced first quarter 2019 financial results, and declared its 33rd consecutive quarterly dividend. "I am pleased to report that we delivered adjusted EBITDA of $8.1 million in the first quarter of 2019, together with a strong book-to-bill ratio of 1.36, all in an environment of increased competition and a spending slowdown across our key Western Canadian markets," said David LeMay, President and CEO of Stuart Olson. "We anticipate that the near-term negative impacts of the mandatory Alberta oil production curtailment on capital spending by our integrated oil sands customers and the highly competitive market conditions will continue into the second quarter. For the second half of this year, we expect year-over-year increases in contract revenue and adjusted EBITDA as these headwinds start to subside, and our operating groups continue to actively bid on a significant pipeline of project opportunities," added Mr. LeMay. FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS Three months ended March 31 $millions, except percentages and per share amounts 2019 2018 Contract revenue 220.9 265.9 Contract income 21.4 24.3 Contract income margin 9.7% 9.1% Adjusted EBITDA 8.1 8.1 Adjusted EBITDA margin 3.7% 3.0% Net (loss) earnings (2.5) 1.6 Loss (earnings) per share Basic (loss) earnings per share (0.09) 0.06 Diluted (loss) earnings per share (0.09) 0.06 Dividends declared per share 0.06 0.12 Adjusted free cash flow (4.1) 5.6 Adjusted free cash flow per share (0.15) 0.20 $millions Mar. 31, 2019 Jan. 1, 2019 Dec. 31, 2018 Backlog 1,646.5 1,567.4 1,567.4 Working capital (15.5) (15.9) (10.9) Long-term debt (excluding current portion) 40.5 38.9 43.1 Convertible debentures (excluding equity portion) 78.8 78.2 78.2 Total assets 653.7 670.6 625.3 These financial results are presented in conformance with International Financial Reporting Standards ("IFRS"). All figures are in Canadian dollars unless otherwise noted. Certain financial and operational measures referred to in this press release, including "contract income margin", "adjusted EBITDA", "adjusted EBITDA margin", "backlog", "working capital", "adjusted free cash flow", "adjusted free cash flow per share", "dividend payout ratio", "additional borrowing capacity", "available liquidity" and "net long-term indebtedness to adjusted EBITDA", are not prescribed measures under IFRS. For a description of these measures, see the "Non-IFRS Measures" section in Stuart Olson's March 31, 2019 Management's Discussion & Analysis ("MD&A"). FIRST QUARTER ("Q1") 2019 OVERVIEW Stuart Olson added approximately $300 million to its backlog in the first quarter of 2019, reflecting a book-to-bill ratio of 1.36 to 1.00. This resulted in a March 31, 2019 backlog of $1.6 billion , which includes a diverse mix of public, private and industrial projects from Ontario to British Columbia and is predominantly made up of low-risk contract arrangements. First quarter additions to backlog include approximately: added approximately to its backlog in the first quarter of 2019, reflecting a book-to-bill ratio of 1.36 to 1.00. This resulted in a backlog of , which includes a diverse mix of public, private and industrial projects from to and is predominantly made up of low-risk contract arrangements. First quarter additions to backlog include approximately: $120 million in awards to the Buildings Group, comprised of a number of public infrastructure and private projects, including a construction management contract for a new retirement residence in Alberta . in awards to the Buildings Group, comprised of a number of public infrastructure and private projects, including a construction management contract for a new retirement residence in . $100 million in awards to the Industrial Group, including a new master services agreement ("MSA") which expands the group's work for an existing customer in Ontario into three additional regions. The Industrial Group also secured two contract renewals for on-going maintenance services in Alberta and a new petrochemical maintenance MSA in Alberta for bundled services, including its new mechanical maintenance capabilities. in awards to the Industrial Group, including a new master services agreement ("MSA") which expands the group's work for an existing customer in into three additional regions. The Industrial Group also secured two contract renewals for on-going maintenance services in and a new petrochemical maintenance MSA in for bundled services, including its new mechanical maintenance capabilities. $80 million of Commercial Systems Group awards comprised of numerous projects, including work on an agricultural facility in Ontario , a public facility in Alberta and a multi-use residential tower in Saskatoon . of Commercial Systems Group awards comprised of numerous projects, including work on an agricultural facility in , a public facility in and a multi-use residential tower in . Stuart Olson generated first quarter consolidated revenue of $220.9 million , as compared to $265.9 million in Q1 2018. The year-over-year change reflects the impact of a colder-than-usual winter, changes in project mix and stage of completion with a greater proportion of Buildings Group projects in higher-margin, but lower-activity, completion phases, and lower Industrial Group revenue reflecting last year's completion of two large construction projects. generated first quarter consolidated revenue of , as compared to in Q1 2018. The year-over-year change reflects the impact of a colder-than-usual winter, changes in project mix and stage of completion with a greater proportion of Buildings Group projects in higher-margin, but lower-activity, completion phases, and lower Industrial Group revenue reflecting last year's completion of two large construction projects. Despite lower revenues, first quarter adjusted EBITDA of $8.1 million was comparable to the $8.1 million achieved in the first quarter of 2018. Adjusted EBITDA margin also increased to 3.7% from 3.0% in 2018, reflecting strong margin performance from the Buildings Group as well as the impact of adopting IFRS 16, the new lease accounting standard. was comparable to the achieved in the first quarter of 2018. Adjusted EBITDA margin also increased to 3.7% from 3.0% in 2018, reflecting strong margin performance from the Buildings Group as well as the impact of adopting IFRS 16, the new lease accounting standard. Stuart Olson recorded a first quarter 2019 net loss of $2.5 million (diluted loss per share, or "EPS", of $0.09 ), as compared to net earnings of $1.6 million (diluted EPS of $0.06 ) in the first quarter of 2018. The year-over-year decrease reflects higher costs related to restructuring, investing and other one-time activities in Q1 2019. recorded a first quarter 2019 net loss of (diluted loss per share, or "EPS", of ), as compared to net earnings of (diluted EPS of ) in the first quarter of 2018. The year-over-year decrease reflects higher costs related to restructuring, investing and other one-time activities in Q1 2019. Adjusted free cash flow was an outflow of $4.1 million ( $0.15 per share) in the first quarter of 2019, as compared to an adjusted free cash inflow of $5.6 million ( $0.20 per share) in Q1 2018. The year-over-year change primarily reflects lower net earnings, a project stage of completion-driven change in provisions, and an increase in interest payments due to a higher long-term debt balance in Q1 2019, combined with increases to the Canadian prime lending rate. ( per share) in the first quarter of 2019, as compared to an adjusted free cash inflow of ( per share) in Q1 2018. The year-over-year change primarily reflects lower net earnings, a project stage of completion-driven change in provisions, and an increase in interest payments due to a higher long-term debt balance in Q1 2019, combined with increases to the Canadian prime lending rate. The Company's net long-term indebtedness to adjusted EBITDA ratio was 3.2x, or 3.0x on a pro forma basis inclusive of Tartan's LTM adjusted EBITDA as at March 31, 2019 . This compares to 2.8x, or 2.6x on a pro forma basis inclusive of Tartan's LTM adjusted EBITDA as at December 31, 2018 . This change reflects the draw on its Revolver to fund working capital requirements. . This compares to 2.8x, or 2.6x on a pro forma basis inclusive of Tartan's LTM adjusted EBITDA as at . This change reflects the draw on its Revolver to fund working capital requirements. On May 8, 2019 , the Board of Directors ("Board") declared a quarterly common share dividend of $0.06 per share. The dividend is designated as an eligible dividend under the Income Tax Act ( Canada ) and is payable July 16, 2019 to shareholders of record on June 28, 2019 . , the Board of Directors ("Board") declared a quarterly common share dividend of per share. The dividend is designated as an eligible dividend under the Income Tax Act ( ) and is payable to shareholders of record on . Since the introduction of the quarterly dividend in June 2011 , Stuart Olson has paid a dividend for thirty-three consecutive quarters, including the dividend declared today. This represents $3.84 per share or $99.5 million in total, returned to shareholders. , has paid a dividend for thirty-three consecutive quarters, including the dividend declared today. This represents per share or in total, returned to shareholders. On March 5, 2019 , the Company negotiated amendments to its Revolver to: 1) temporarily increase the debt to EBITDA covenant to provide the optionality to use the Revolver to fully settle the repayment of its $80.5 million convertible debentures in 2019, 2) exclude certain non-cash interest costs from the calculation of its interest coverage ratio covenant, 3) minimize any adverse impacts to covenant calculations from the adoption of IFRS 16, and 4) exclude costs related to certain shareholder activities from the definition of EBITDA. , the Company negotiated amendments to its Revolver to: 1) temporarily increase the debt to EBITDA covenant to provide the optionality to use the Revolver to fully settle the repayment of its convertible debentures in 2019, 2) exclude certain non-cash interest costs from the calculation of its interest coverage ratio covenant, 3) minimize any adverse impacts to covenant calculations from the adoption of IFRS 16, and 4) exclude costs related to certain shareholder activities from the definition of EBITDA. During the first quarter of 2019 Stuart Olson was recognized as one of Alberta's Top Employers for the third consecutive year. Top Employers for the third consecutive year. Subsequent to quarter-end, Stuart Olson announced that the Board has selected David C. Filmon to succeed Albrecht Bellstedt as Chair following the Company's annual and special meeting of shareholders. Mr. Bellstedt is retiring from the role after over 10 years' service as Chair. Mr. Filmon is a current member of the Board and serves on the Audit and Human Resources and Compensation Committees. Mr. Filmon's appointment as Chair is subject to his election as a director by Stuart Olson's shareholders at the May 22, 2019 shareholders meeting. 2019 OUTLOOK Consolidated Outlook Stuart Olson expects 2019 consolidated contract revenue and adjusted EBITDA to be meaningfully higher, and adjusted EBITDA margin to be stable compared to 2018, based on the outlooks for each of the operating groups below. expects 2019 consolidated contract revenue and adjusted EBITDA to be meaningfully higher, and adjusted EBITDA margin to be stable compared to 2018, based on the outlooks for each of the operating groups below. The Company's consolidated outlook has changed from its December 31, 2018 MD&A, primarily as a result of lower-than-expected award wins for its Industrial Group as a result of competitive market conditions and the continued near-term impacts on capital spending by its integrated oil sands customers as a result of the mandatory Alberta oil production curtailment policy. Industrial Group Revenue from the Industrial Group is expected to be significantly higher and adjusted EBITDA is expected to be meaningfully higher in the 2019 fiscal year as compared to 2018. This outlook reflects a robust pipeline of construction opportunities for the group, together with the addition of a full year of revenue and adjusted EBITDA contribution from the recently acquired Tartan business, as well as an increase to adjusted EBITDA from the adoption of IFRS 16. Adjusted EBITDA margin for the group is expected to be meaningfully lower year-over-year, reflecting last year's completion of major projects that contributed significant close-out margins to 2018 results. Buildings Group The Buildings Group anticipates significantly higher revenue and meaningfully higher adjusted EBITDA year-over-year on the basis of projects moving into higher-activity construction phases and the impact of IFRS 16, paired with a slight decline in adjusted EBITDA margin. This outlook reflects a robust pipeline of opportunities for the group in 2019, combined with a greater proportion of projects in higher-activity but lower-margin stages of completion in 2019. Commercial Systems Group Commercial Systems Group 2019 revenue is expected to be stable compared to 2018, while adjusted EBITDA and adjusted EBITDA margin are expected to be significantly higher as productivity challenges experienced in 2018 are not expected to repeat. The group's adjusted EBITDA results are also expected to benefit from the adoption of IFRS 16. Corporate Group Corporate Group adjusted EBITDA is expected to decline significantly in 2019 as compared to 2018. This impact relates to both a significant reduction in share-based compensation expense that occurred in 2018 as a result of a decrease in the Company's share price in the year, as well as an expected increase in 2019 incentive accruals relating to the anticipated improvement in operating performance. These effects will be partially offset by the impact of adopting IFRS 16. CONFERENCE CALL AND WEBCAST Stuart Olson will hold a conference call and webcast to discuss its 2019 first quarter results on Thursday, May 9, 2019 at 7:30 a.m. Mountain Time (9:30 a.m. Eastern). The webcast will be broadcast live and will also be available for replay in the Presentations & Events subsection under Investor Relations on the Company's website at www.stuartolson.com. For those unable to listen during the live webcast, a replay will be available on the website shortly after the conclusion of the conference call for a period of 90 days. Financial analysts and institutional investors who wish to ask questions during the conference call are invited to call 1-888-390-0546 (Canada and USA) or 1-587-880-2171 (outside Canada and USA). For those unable to participate on the live call, a replay will be made available until Wednesday, March 20, 2019 by dialing 1-888-390-0541 (Canada and USA) or 1-416-764-8677 (outside Canada and USA), pin 202427. The public is invited to listen to the live conference call, webcast or the replay. ABOUT STUART OLSON INC. Stuart Olson Inc. provides general contracting and electrical building systems contracting in the public and private construction markets as well as general contracting, electrical, mechanical and specialty trades, such as insulation, cladding and asbestos abatement, in the industrial construction and services market. The Company operates office locations and projects throughout Western Canada, Ontario and the territories. In 2019 Stuart Olson was recognized as one of Alberta's Top Employers for the third consecutive year. Stuart Olson's common shares and convertible debentures are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbols "SOX" and "SOX.DB.A", respectively. www.stuartolson.com FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION This press release contains certain statements that may constitute forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable securities laws. This forward-looking information includes, without limitation, the statements made under the section titled "2019 Outlook" including, without limitation, those relating to expectations regarding changes in: (i) revenues; (ii) Stuart Olson's backlog and the implication that such backlog will be converted into revenues; (iii) expectations regarding changes in 2019 adjusted EBITDA and adjusted EBITDA margin; (iv) economic conditions; (v) the outlook for each of Stuart Olson's operating groups Often, but not always, forward-looking information can be identified by the use of such words as "may", "will", "expect", "believe", "plan", "intend", "estimate", "outlook", "forecast", "should", "anticipate", "seek", "continue", "see", "project", "predict", "propose", "targeting", "potential", "could", "might", "grow", "momentum" and other similar terminology, including statements concerning possible or assumed future results. Forward-looking information is based on management's reasonable assumptions, analysis and estimates in respect of its experience and perception of trends, current economic conditions, government policies and expected developments, as well as other material factors that it considers to be relevant at the time of making such statements. The forward-looking information in this press release is included solely for the purpose of assisting investors in understanding the Company's financial position and the results of its operations as at the date hereof. By its nature, forward-looking information involves known and unknown risks and uncertainties, which give rise to the possibility that management's assumptions, analysis and estimates will be incorrect and that the Company's anticipated results will not be achieved. Although the Company believes that the statements with respect to forward-looking information are reasonable and current, such statements should not be interpreted as a guarantee of future performance or results, and will not necessarily be an accurate indication of whether or not such results will be achieved. Forward-looking information is necessarily subject to a number of factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from those results implied by the expectations suggested by such information. Those factors include, without limitation, the risks and uncertainties described in the Company's Annual Information Form filed with the securities regulatory authorities in Canada under the Company's profile at www.sedar.com. Readers are encouraged to consider the foregoing risks and other factors carefully when evaluating the forward-looking information and are cautioned not to place undue reliance upon such information when making investment decisions. The forward-looking information in this press release is current to the date hereof, and is subject to change following such date. While the Company may elect to do so, unless required by applicable law, it undertakes no obligation to update this information to reflect new information or circumstances at any particular time. SOURCE Stuart Olson Inc. For further information: David LeMay, President and Chief Executive Officer, Stuart Olson Inc., (403) 685-7777, Email: [email protected]; Daryl Sands, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, Stuart Olson Inc., (403) 685-7777, Email: [email protected] Related Links www.stuartolson.com State Police hope the public can help them solve the killing of a former school official who was left to die from a gunshot wound have an argument with another man on Interstate 84. Richard H. Aderson, 47, of LaGrange was able to call police after he was shot during a roadside dispute on Feb. 5, 1997. Aderson was a former assistant superintendent for the Valley Central School District in Orange County. Troopers said Aderson and another man got into an argument on the side of the highway near Exit 12 in the town of Fishkill after their vehicles were involved in a fender bender. Aderson called Dutchess County 911, telling dispatchers that he had been shot by an assailant who drove off eastbound on I-84. Though mortally wounded, Aderson was able to give police a description of his attacker and the type of vehicle he was driving. Aderson was still alive when emergency workers got him into an ambulance but he died before they could get him to a hospital in Newburgh. State Police said Aderson described his attacker as a white male in his late 40 or 50s with a medium complexion. He stood roughly 6-foot and had a thin build. Trooper said the man was wearing aviator-style eyeglasses and had a receding hairline. It is believed that he was driving a Jeep Cherokee, possibly a 1997 model. The vehicle may have had New Hampshire license plates. Suspect sketch in Richard H. Aderson homicide. (Courtesy of New York State Police) The troopers say Aderson's death remains an active investigation. The agency has pursued over 3,000 leads in the 22-year-old case many of which have sent investigators on the hunt for clues in New England. Anyone with information about the case can call the State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation in Wappinger at (845) 677-7300. Please refer to case # 3021797. All calls may be kept confidential. - By Mike Goodwin, Times Union, Albany, N.Y. ALEXANDRIA, N.Y. -- A Jefferson County man was charged with making methamphetamine after a fire was reported at his home, according to New York State Police. State police responded at about 5:10 a.m. Tuesday to 41250 Bearup Road in the town of Alexandria for the report of a house fire. When fire personnel arrived, they located the resident, Roscoe W. Carlisle, 51, hiding in an attic area of the house, state police said. Carlisle was treated at the scene for smoke inhalation and released. During the investigation, items commonly used in the manufacturing of methamphetamine were located inside the residence and near the location of the fire, state police said. Investigators from the state Office of Fire Prevention and Control and Jefferson County Emergency Management Office are continuing to investigate the cause and origin of the fire. Carlisle was charged with third-degree unlawful manufacturing of methamphetamine, a felony. State police were assisted by Plessis Fire Department, Clayton Fire Department and Alexandria Fire Department. The investigation is continuing. NORTH HAVEN Two juveniles have been charged in a suspicious fire early last month, police said Thursday. The two juveniles who were not identified since they are minors each was charged with reckless burning, reckless endangerment, criminal mischief and criminal trespass. NEW HAVEN Friends and family on Wednesday remembered Michael Randall as the guy who was never judgmental, loved to cook and was happy to share whatever he had with his neighbors. Deshaya Hargrove, as she recalled her own escape from the Sunday morning fire at 150 West St., said Randall alerted everyone who was on the third floor to get out, but didnt make it himself. She said he and his friend, Corey Reed, were found at the bottom of the staircase to the second floor. We kept telling him to jump, but he was afraid, Hargrove said, tearing up. It is so hard. I just kept telling him to get out of there. He was a hero, she added, a sentiment echoed by many at a gathering in front of the boarded-up house. They lite candles and signed a large piece of cardboard expressing their feelings for him. Michael Randall Jr., 18, who is graduating from Wilbur Cross High School next month, said he had talked to his father on Saturday where he told him of his plans for the weekend. Hargrove said Randall was so proud of his son. I wished he had moved downstairs. He would have been able to get out, his son said, crying. He was always there for me. Randall and Reed were among the tenants who had rooms on the third floor. Hargrove said Randalls room was all the way in the front of the house. The only way to get out was the second floor door. He never made it. Hargrove said she was the one who alerted firefighters that Reed and Randall were unaccounted for. Hargrove was adament that none of the smoke detectors were working. Bobby McCrea, Hargroves uncle, jumped from a bathroom window on the third floor, just missing a metal fence when he landed, hurting his back and left leg. He spent two days in the hospital. McCrea said when he opened the back door, the smoke was overwhelming. Hargrove helped stop the fall of another tenant, a woman, who Randall encouraged to jump. It was really a tragedy, she said of losing Randall and Reed. We really had a bond in this house. We lost a really good guy, McCrea said of Randall. Hargrove said she is finding it hard to sleep. All I keep seeing is Michael being carried out, she said of her friend. Corey was a a sweetheart too. We were all like family. If he would have fixed what we told him, (the landlord,) everyone would have been OK, she said crying about the lack of working smoke detectors. This house was never fit for us to live in, she said of leaking plumbing and other problems. Jennifer Saunders, Randalls cousin, said Randall made great quiche. He would always say about his cooking: I dont know if you are going to like this, but we always did, Hargrove said. He was known as Mike the chef. He made people happy, no matter what was going on in his own life. `Whatever was thrown at him, he was able to work through it, family friend Louella Pratt said. mary.oleary@hearstmediact.com; 203-641-1577 , getting out of the fire at 150 West St. that took Randalls life, as well as his friend, Corey Reed, Dershaya Hargrove cried as she recalled her friend Michael Randall helping others get out of a fire, but was too afraid to jump from the third floor as the house filled with smoke. Randall and Corey Reed NEW HAVEN The two men who died in a fire at 150 West St. Sunday died as a result of smoke inhalation and thermal injuries, the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner said Thursday. The MEs office also officially identified Michael Randall and Corey Reed as the two victims . A staffer with the MEs office said the deaths had been ruled accidental. The families of both men had come forward in the days after the fire, saying that their loved ones had died in the blaze and asking for help paying for funeral expenses. Also Thursday, New Haven police said they could not release the report corresponding to the May 1 arrest of John Farrar, the owner and landlord at 150 West St., as it is part of an open investigation. Farrar, 40, was arrested just before midnight May 1, according to a notation in the New Haven Police Departments arrest log. He is charged with second-degree breach of peace, and criminal trespassing and assault, both in the third degree. He is described in the arrest log as living on the first floor of 150 West St. According to judicial records, Farrar is free on a $5,000 surety bond and was arraigned in court on Elm Street Thursday. His court file was not immediately available. Sgt. Robert Maturo said the police report corresponding to the case could not be provided Thursday, as it is related to an open investigation and not subject to FOIA at this time. Maturo said he could not comment as to whether the investigation in question is connected to the fire. Clarise Randall, the twin sister of fire victim Michael Randall, alleged Tuesday that Farrar had confronted her brother in the days before the blaze in an effort to get a rent payment from him before it was typically due, prompting Michael Randall to call police. Farrar purchased the home from previous owner Dorjan Jashari in March. Tenants have alleged in recent days that the home had been inappropriately divided into multiple dwelling units. The city is investigating all records regarding the house and any complaints filed about it. Farrar could not be immediately reached Thursday. william.lambert@hearstmediact.com NEW HAVEN Following several weeks of budget workshops, in which an aldermanic committee went through the budget department-by-department, 10 members of the public shared their feedback on the process. Alders heard from supporters of the New Haven Free and Public Library and critics of the citys schools budget. Wexler-Grant Community School teacher Ashley Stockton said the impact from an August 2018 decision to reduce the amount of library media specialists and school counselors in the district is noticable. This year has been a tough one, she said. This year we can feel the impact of cuts in the classrooms. At Wexler-Grant, as with several other schools, library media specialists and school counselors work full time, but they split their time and caseloads between two schools. That means for half of the school week, some school libraries are closed. Rachel Kline Brown, development director for the local youth engagement nonprofit LEAP, said she is concerned about the way Superintendent of Schools Carol Birks proposed $12 million in personnel savings through reassigning teachers, increasing class sizes and reducing positions through attrition. When she talked about moving teachers around, thats not really paying attention to the individual characteristics of those schools that those leaders of schools have taken time to cultivate, said Kline Brown, a former New York City educator who is married to High School in the Community building leader Matt Brown. Alder Abby Roth, D-7, testified that she was concerned with the lack of specifics included in the Board of Educations presentation to the aldermanic Finance Committee. Its fully concerning we were presented with a presentation which really had no specifics at all, she said. Before we take any vote, we need details. Roth also said she felt the budget is unrealistic about future costs, such as the pension fund. She read a letter from colleague Alder Steven Winter, D-21, worrying that the city had not used the money it received from refinancing its debt to address root causes. This year, structural deficits remain uncorrected, Roth read from Winters letter. Budget watchdogs Gary Doyens and Ken Joyner also warned against the alders passing the budget as proposed. Theres quite a disparity between the amount of money we borrow and what we pay back into the debt service, Joyner said. Theres a disparity there thats been going on for years and its time for it to stop. Doyens compared the citys handling of its budget to spinning plates, specifically recalling the Bozo the Clown show. We do this over and over and over again and never seem to learn, he said. Doyens said the city is going the way of Hartford because of its decisions to add government employees and its inability to leave a rainy day fund. The committee also heard from a number of library boosters, touting its status as a 2019 National Medal for Museum and Library Service winner as reason enough to fund its budget. Lauren Anderson, a member of the librarys board of directors, said the library represents the opposite of bloat, providing crucial services to the community on a shoestring budget. brian.zahn@hearstmediact.com NEW HAVEN Clarise Randall, sister of Michael Randall, wants answers about why her brother died in a fire at 150 West St. The city offered some Wednesday. But theyre piecemeal. When the fire that claimed two lives and displaced 14 people broke out Sunday at 150 West St., the Livable City Initiative had some relationship with the property, but not in-depth knowledge about the conditions there, officials said Wednesday. The city Wednesday released the last five years of LCIs records regarding the property at 150 West St. City spokesman Laurence Grotheer and LCI Executive Director Serena Neal-Sanjurjo sat down to talk about LCIs oversight of the home as the documents were offered. LCI had taken some notice of the property in the recent past, dealing with complaints about trash, abandoned cars, unkempt grass, and the lack of heat in a first-floor tenants apartment, according to documents included in the file and the two officials. The latest complaints in the file date to 2018. The heat complaint came in in December 2017, three days before. But unless something glaring is noted, that complaint process is limited to dealing with the specifically enumerated issue, Neal-Sanjurjo said. On a housing code complaint, unless there is a reason for them to go throughout the entire building, they are going to respond to that immediate complaint. They look for any types of triggers that will say, OK, maybe I should inspect the entire building. But at that time, it was just a no heat, said Neal-Sanjurjo. Their remedy was to make sure that the tenant had heat, and thats what they did. LCI did not receive a complaint that the home was being used as a boarding house, she said. If we have a rooming house situation, and no ones reporting it (and) were looking at our list that says its a two-family home ... then we would not know that unless we had an opportunity to inspect, said Neal-Sanjurjo. Opportunities that could have led to an inspection came and went over the years. The home was not part of the citys Residential Rental Licensing program, although former owner Ismet Jashari applied in 2013. If that process had been completed, the property would have been inspected at the time and, when the property was sold in March, received additional consideration from LCI, Grotheer and Neal-Sanjurjo said. But, even as LCI made eight appointments in 2013 and 2014, Jashari never showed up to let in an inspector. The city filed a civil citation against him along with a fine over that, but then did not pursue it, Grotheer said. Dorjan Jashari took ownership of the home in May 2017, according to city property records. He sold it to John Farrar, a New York man, this March. By then, it appears the home had been illegally renovated without permits, Grotheer said. City records indicate that the home has five bedrooms and two baths, he noted. But, when it was listed for sale and ultimately purchased by Farrar, it was described as a seven bedroom, three bath abode. If the owner had sought permits, that would have triggered a review from LCI, Neal-Sanjurjo said. The building department would have inspected that renovations were done to code, Grotheer said. LCI didnt know the property had been purchased in March, Neal-Sarjuro said. A record of the sale is included in the documents released Tuesday. The agency typically gets records of such sales intermittently, largely from the assessors office, she said. If it had known, officials likely would have tried to schedule an inspection with Farrar, given their record with the prior owner, she said. Now, officials are left to try to move forward. Its unclear whether the city missed something that could have averted the fire, Grotheer said. The state fire marshals office investigatin into the blaze is ongoing. Grotheer said city officials are collating a history of the property, seeking to understand what information had come in to the various departments over the years. The histories of other properties owned by Dorjan Jashari also are being considered, he said. Neal-Sanjurjo said the ordinance that governs the Residential Rental License program has been under review by the Board of Alders for some time now theyd like to create a rating system for landlords, creating a tiered system for regular enforcement. Additional staff for the program had been provided in recent years theyve gone from one to six. But the task is still substantial a total of four inspectors are tasked with reviewing up to 25,000 eligible housing units in the city, Neal-Sanjurjo said. The fire, and the resulting deaths of two people, are a tragedy, Grotheer and Neal-Sanjurjo said. All of our sympathy goes with them at this time. Our job is to protect, and when that fails, it is not a good feeling, said Neal-Sanjurjo. We empathize; we understand. The only thing that we can do at this point is to get better. william.lambert@hearstmediact.com Questo comunicato e stato pubblicato piu di 1 anno fa. Le informazioni su questa pagina potrebbero non essere attendibili. May 09, 2019: The global intelligent transportation system (ITS) market is expected to reach USD 66.5 billion by 2024, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc. The usage of ITS to reduce road accidents and increase safety is a major driving force for the ITS market. Demand for Vehicle-to-Vehicle (V2V) and Vehicle-to-Infrastructure (V2I) communication in order to enhance road safety is expected to gain momentum over the forecast period. The continuous progression and development have become a crucial need for betterment of road networks in the transportation systems. Enhancement in vehicle transport technology such as blind spot detection and electronic toll collection has continued to redefine the current opportunity and future prospects of sustainable traffic and transport management. Download sample Copy of This Report at: https://www.radiantinsights.com/research/intelligent-transportation-system-its-market-analysis-and-segment-forecasts-to-2020/request-sample Additionally, congestion cost is a major issue for any nation in terms of fuel consumption and travel time. ITS and connected car technology is transforming mobility and safety on highways by avoiding crashes and reducing fatalities. As a result, there is a strong focus on deployment of advanced traffic systems and reducing the number of road accidents, which can be facilitated through ITS solutions. Further key findings from the report suggest: The ATMS is expected to remain the largest segment owing to the rising need to access real-time information captured by cameras and sensors. This system allows transport agencies to enable safe traveling by identifying and responding rapidly to the emergencies with real-time decision support tools. View summary of this report @ https://www.radiantinsights.com/research/intelligent-transportation-system-its-market-analysis-and-segment-forecasts-to-2020 Traffic management application is expected to grow at a CAGR of 12.1% from 2016 to 2024. Growing needs to minimize traffic congestion and pollution levels are boosting the need for traffic management solutions. The North America ITS industry is anticipated to reach USD 26.29 billion by 2024. Increased government focus on passenger safety and implementation of traffic management projects and initiatives are propelling the demand for intelligent transportation system. Asia Pacific is anticipated to be the fastest-growing region, growing at a CAGR of over 15.7% from 2016 to 2024. Increasing deployment of these systems propelled by the robust telecom and IT infrastructure has minimize transport-related issues in economy such as India. Key players in the intelligent transportation system market include Kapsch TrafficCom AG, Iteris Inc., Thales Group, TomTom NV, Garmin International Inc. and Q-Free ASA. Companies are focusing on providing fully integrated safety solutions to develop technologies in the transportation infrastructure space. About Radiant Insights Radiant Insights is a platform for companies looking to meet their market research and business intelligence requirements. We assist and facilitate organizations and individuals procure market research reports, helping them in the decision making process. We have a comprehensive collection of reports, covering over 40 key industries and a host of micro markets. In addition to over extensive database of reports, our experienced research coordinators also offer a host of ancillary services such as, research partnerships/ tie-ups and customized research solutions. For More Information, Visit Radiant Insights Contact: Michelle Thoras Corporate Sales Specialist, USA Radiant Insights, Inc Phone: 1-415-349-0054 Toll Free: 1-888-202-9519 Email: sales@radiantinsights.com Blog URL: http://ictmarketforecasts.wordpress.com Japan Data The spread of e-commerce and increasing number of suburban shopping malls have contributed to the overall slump in Japanese department store sales. Sales Decline at 53 of the 78 Department Store Chains Overall sales at Japans 78 department store chains fell by 0.087% to 5.99 trillion in 2018, marking the second straight annual decline. Although less serious than the 3.1% fall in 2017, nothing seems to be stemming falling revenue. Reduced costs, however, meant that the industry made an overall profit of 17 billion in 2018, compared with a loss of 4.6 billion the previous year. Among the 78 chains, 25 saw year-on-year revenue gains, while the remaining 53 posted lower revenue than in the previous year. In other words, a relatively small minority of chains posted strong results that lifted the industry as a whole, whereas roughly 70%, saw year-on-year drops in revenue. Takashimaya Leads the Pack for Sales The leader in sales for 2018 was Takashimaya, a nationwide department store centered in the Tokyo metropolitan and Kansai areas. The companys cumulative sales for the year were 724.6 billion, a 3.06% year-on-year increase. Sogo & Seibu was the runner-up with 685.9 billion in sales, followed by Isetan Mitsukoshi Holdings at 673.9 billion, and Daimaru Matsuzakaya Department Stores at 673.1 billion. Top Selling Japanese Department Store Chains in 2018 Overall sales ( billion) Year-on-year increase/decrease 1 Takashimaya 724.6 3.06% 2 Sogo & Seibu 685.8 -9.83% 3 Mitsukoshi Isetan 673.9 -1.59% 4 Daimaru Matsuzakaya 673.1 4.04% 5 Hankyu Hanshin 446.7 4.34% 6 Kintetsu 259.3 6.10% 7 Tokyu 194.2 -1.06% 8 Odakyu 144.5 1.57% 9 JR Tokai Takashimaya 140.3 8.48% 10 Tobu 140.0 -1.24% Compiled by Nippon.com based on data from Tokyo Shoko Research. Major Firms Concentrating Resources in Flagship Stores Nationwide department store chains are scrambling to restructure slumping stores located in regional cities. They are concentrating their resources at flagship stores in central Tokyo, where demand is expected from the upcoming Olympics and from foreign tourists and visitors, and in some cases, this has led to an upturn in business performance. Meanwhile, revenue has been falling among many of the independent local department stores that have long been familiar to area residents. A disproportionate number of these stores are in the red. Over the past few years, department stores located in suburbs and regional cities have been steadily closing. Shuttered department stores since 2018 include the Isetan store in Matsudo, the Seibu stores in Funabashi and Odawara, and the Maruei store in Nagoya. Already in 2019, the decision has been made to close the Isetan stores in Fuchu and Sagamihara, and the Mitsukoshi store in Niigata. Some of the factors underlying the struggles of regional department stores include the extended slump in spending among consumers, the spread of e-commerce, and changing trends in consumption. Another problem has been the shift to suburban shopping malls as population decline has contributed to a hollowing out of the central districts of some regional cities. (Translated from Japanese. Banner photo: A cosmetic counter at the Matsuya Ginza store in Tokyo. Photo taken on February 6, 2019. Jiji.) Japan Data Japans childhood population was estimated at 15.33 million in 2019. Every year, coinciding with Childrens Day on May 5, Japans Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications releases its estimate for the childhood population, as of April 1. In 2019, the population under 15 years old fell year on year by 180,000, for a total of 15.33 million. Japans childhood population has been declining since 1982, and is now at its lowest point in the 50 years for which comparable statistics are available. There are 7.85 million boys and 7.48 million girls. The proportion of children to the overall Japanese population declined 0.2 percentage points to 12.1%. Since 1995, the senior population (65 and over) has been greater than the childhood population. While the government of Prime Minister Abe Shinzo has pledged to increase the number of children born, there is no easy way to reverse the long-term downward trend, and the efforts of previous administrations have not yielded results. Breaking down the childhood population into three-year age groups shows that the younger the age, the smaller the respective population, with 12- to 14-year-olds being the most numerous at 3.22 million, followed by 9- to 11-year-olds at 3.21 million, 6- to 8-year-olds at 3.09 million, 3- to-5-year-olds at 2.95 million, and newborns to 2-year-olds at 2.86 million. Tokyo was the only prefecture in Japan that saw a rise in the number of children, while Okinawa remained unchanged, and the other 45 prefectures experienced decreases. (Translated from Japanese. Banner photo Pixta.) Glen Rock decided not to bow to political correctness. Theyre keeping Columbus Day on the calendar. The borough council voted unanimously Wednesday to keep the long-observed holiday that has been adopted by Italian-Americans, rather than replace it with Indigenous Peoples Day, Mayor Bruce J. Packer confirmed. A standing-room-only crowd turned out Wednesday night for a 90-minute debate on issue, which was introduced last month by the mayor, who said several residents requested the change. At the time, he said he was in favor of replacing Columbus Day with Indigenous Peoples Day. Columbus, an Italian who sailed under the Spanish flag, has been increasingly criticized over the past two decades for bringing upon indigenous people violence, slavery, forced conversion to Christianity and diseases because of his quest for riches and a better sailing route to India -- leading some to wonder whether he should be celebrated. Packer said after the issue made news he received a large number of emails. While more (emails) were against (changing the name), many of them were from out-of-towners so it is difficult to say how it was balanced among residents, the mayor said. If I had to guess Id say more who reached out were against the change as they felt it was disrespectful to Italian-Americans to make such a change. Glen Rock, 2.7 square mile borough in Bergen County, was settled around a giant boulder, named Pamachapuka (meaning stone from heaven) by the Lenape Native Americans who used it for signal fires and as a trail marker. About 22 percent of Glen Rocks current residents are of Italian descent. Andre DiMino, an executive board member and spokesman for the Italian American One Voice Coalition, a national group with a chapter based out of Bloomfield, has said that its unfair to judge Columbus based on todays standards. People want to pin all these atrocities on him, DiMino previously told NJ Advance Media. There was plenty of slavery and atrocities going on before he got here. The mayor said he thinks the council made the right decision. There are strong feelings on each side of this debate and it is incumbent upon us as leaders to make all of our residents feel that we are hearing their concerns and respecting their reasons for those concerns, he said. He does have one regret, though. I regret making any statements regarding my personal view, he said. Choosing one side ... needs to include a long and respectful dialogue with those on both sides of the issue. 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. If you dont mind a crowd, youre likely to love New Jersey these days. Just ask Gov. Phil Murphy. Murphy joined members of the New Jersey Tourism Industry Association on Thursday to announce that in 2018, visitation to New Jersey rose to nearly 111 million people, an increase of 7.4 percent from 2017. In the years to come and as this critical industry continues to grow, I look forward to joining families from around the world in enjoying what New Jersey has to offer, supporting the businesses and communities that make our state special, the governor said. State officials are aiming to draw 150 million visitors by 2023 with a new focus on international travelers, the American Dream project, and Atlantic Citys rebound. Total spending by visitors to the state reached $44.7 billion, which generated $5 billion in state and local taxes in 2018. According to The Economic Impact of Tourism in New Jersey Report released Thursday by the Department of States Division of Travel and Tourism, visitor spending supported 333,860 jobs in New Jersey. When combined with indirect and induced jobs, tourism sustained more than 531,000 jobs, making tourism the 7th largest employer in New Jersey. In fact, nearly 10 percent of New Jerseys jobs are supported by tourism. The report found that 2018 marked the ninth straight year that visitor spending increased, growing more than 30 percent since 2009. The outlook for this summer also appears to be bright. A strong economy, low unemployment, and diverse offerings should make 2019 a good summer for the Jersey Shore, a panel of experts said Thursday at a panel discussion on Stockton Universitys Atlantic City Boardwalk Academic Center. There was more competition in Atlantic City in 2018 with two new casinos, but there was also more advertising and marketing which had a positive impact, said Stockton University Professor of Hospitality and Tourism Management Studies Brian Tyrrell. People have more disposable income, and that is good for this industry. Other highlights of the annual tourism report include: 2017 visitation numbers were even better than reported, revised from 100.9 million visitors to 103.2 million. Food and beverage and lodging garnered the largest share of visitor spending. Visitor spending surged in Atlantic County. Bill Duhart may be reached at bduhart@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter@bduhart. Find NJ.com on Facebook. Have a tip? Tell us. nj.com/tips. Get the latest updates right in your inbox. Subscribe to NJ.coms newsletters. Ask Alexa for New Jersey news Two Vineland teenagers were arrested for making separate threats against the city schools they attend, authorities said. On Monday, a 14-year-old student at Sgt. Dominick Pilla Middle School was charged with creating a false public alarm, Vineland police said in a statement. The next day, police charged a 17-year-old Vineland High School student with cyber harassment and creating a false public alarm for an incident that took place April 30. Police also arrested a third student this week - a 14-year-old Vineland High School student found in possession of a knife on Monday. The students names were not released because they are minors. Vineland police couldnt immediately be reached for additional information about the nature of the threats. Jeff Goldman may be reached at jeff_goldman@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @JeffSGoldman. Have a tip? Tell us. nj.com/tips Get the latest updates right in your inbox. Subscribe to NJ.coms newsletters Authorities are asking for the publics help after three people were wounded in an early morning shooting in Cumberland County. Police responded to the 200 block of West Foundry Street in Millville around 2:30 a.m. Wednesday for a report of gunfire and found a 44-year-old Bridgeton woman who had been struck in the leg while standing next to an occupied vehicle. She was transported to Inspira Medical Center Vineland for treatment. While at the scene, police learned that a 30-year-old Millville man was shot in the chest and drove himself to the hospital. He was later transported to Cooper University Hospital in Camden. A third victim, a 22-year-old Bridgeton man, turned up at a hospital with a leg wound, police said. Both men reported they were shot while leaving a party on West Foundry and crossing the street to their vehicles. All three victims were treated for their injuries and released. The victims couldnt provide descriptions of the assailants, police said. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Millville Police 856-825-7010, the tip-line 856-825-2182 or text millvillepd and your tip to TIP411 (847411) Matt Gray may be reached at mgray@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @MattGraySJT. 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. Questo comunicato e stato pubblicato piu di 1 anno fa. Le informazioni su questa pagina potrebbero non essere attendibili. May 09, 2019: Over 75,000 shared services centers market are expected to be established globally by 2022, growing at a CAGR of close to 30% from 2015 to 2022, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc. A shared services center (SSC) is a devoted unit that focuses on defined business functions and is structured as a centralized delivery location and point of service. The unit is responsible for specific functions, such as security, purchasing, compliance, legal, IT, payroll, HR, and accounting. The growth prospects for this market are bullish due to increased needs for reducing costs and improving the quality of delivered services. Resourceful implementation of SSC in operational stages yields greater operational efficiency and cost reduction, while enhancing productivity. Deployment of SSC framework helps companies to focus on enhancing operations. Download sample Copy of This Report at: https://www.radiantinsights.com/research/shared-services-center-market/request-sample Availability of skilled low cost labor, tax relaxation and favorable government initiatives in select geographies such as India, China, Latin America, and some parts of Eastern Europe are envisioned to drive industry growth. However, the complexity associated with the implementation of such a framework is presumed to challenge industry growth, as it involves the assigned tasks to be performed and shared dynamically across the various business units involved. To achieve cost reduction, organizations operate in a low cost location. However, doing so without the standardization of procedures is expected to increase the organization's inefficiency and is expected to hinder SSC establishments. Browse Full Report With TOC @ https://www.radiantinsights.com/research/shared-services-center-market Further key findings from the report suggest: Poised to witness considerable growth over the next seven years, pharmaceutical & clinical end-use accounted for 11% of the overall market share in 2014. Rapid increase in the need to reinvent traditional pharmaceutical R&D model to continue developing new products cost-effectively and efficiently, and adjust to the industry's new realities is expected bolster demand over the forecast period. Projected to grow at an estimated CAGR of 35% from 2015 to 2022, legal end-use is expected to drive the SSC industry over the forecast period. Over the last few years, emergence of new technologies coupled with the need to reduce costs in the wake of global downturn has significantly forced corporate legal departments and law firms to change their traditional business approach and to adopt shared services and outsourcing associated with the legal profession. BFSI end-use accounted for over 20% of the overall revenue in 2014, and is presumed to witness significant growth in the market share over the forecast period, owing to the emerging trend among companies to enhance global presence and customer satisfaction. Availability of huge and highly educated workforce, lower wages, and improved English capabilities in countries across Asia Pacific and Eastern Europe are envisioned to boost industry growth. Projected to grow at an estimated CAGR of over 25% from 2015 to 2022, manufacturing end-use is expected to witness healthy growth in the foreseeable future. Organizations consider Asia Pacific as the most attractive market for off-shoring destination owing to the lower wages, higher employment rates, availability of pool of talents, and skilled and educated employees in the region, which are expected to drive industry growth. The Asia Pacific regional market is poised for high growth throughout the forecast period. It accounted for close to 30% of the overall market share in 2014. Close-knit cultural homogeneity coupled with low-cost arbitrage has made the Asia Pacific region a preferred destination for SSC establishment. The presence of a large number of universities, eventually enabling access to skilled labor force, multi-lingual skills in professionals coupled with cultural similarity to Western Europe is presumed to have driven growth in the European region. About Radiant Insights Radiant Insights is a platform for companies looking to meet their market research and business intelligence requirements. We assist and facilitate organizations and individuals procure market research reports, helping them in the decision making process. We have a comprehensive collection of reports, covering over 40 key industries and a host of micro markets. In addition to over extensive database of reports, our experienced research coordinators also offer a host of ancillary services such as, research partnerships/ tie-ups and customized research solutions. For More Information, Visit Radiant Insights Contact: Michelle Thoras Corporate Sales Specialist, USA Radiant Insights, Inc Phone: 1-415-349-0054 Toll Free: 1-888-202-9519 Email: sales@radiantinsights.com Blog URL: http://ictmarketforecasts.wordpress.com Police officers in riot gear and National Guardsmen in an armored vehicle rolled into a Newark neighborhood Wednesday night. On any other day, Branford Place would be home to local retailers and restaurants business as usual. But it was the second night on set for the Sopranos prequel movie The Many Saints of Newark," for which filmmakers have attempted to recreate the atmosphere of the 1967 Newark riots. To that end, the crew set a car ablaze and a large group of men actors playing Newark residents ran down the street away from the police and military vehicles. Real-life Newark history is the setting for the big-screen Sopranos story, which depicts the childhood of future Mafia boss Tony Soprano. The 1967 riots, which took place over four days in July, left 26 people dead. In an episode from the first season of the show, a flashback shows Tonys mother, Livia, watching news about the riots on TV. Set designers transformed Branford Place into a Newark street from 1967, complete with detailed storefronts and the old Adams Theatre, marquee included. The retro neon sign for Hobbys Delicatessen, which has been owned by the Brummer family since 1962, happily fit the time period. A smoke machine created the illusion of a fire at the Dragon Tea Room (another creation of the films set design) next to the movie theater. Actors playing 1960s Newark firefighters joined police in the scenes. I think they did an amazing job on Branford Place, says Luther Engler, a Newark police officer for 30 years. "It brought back vivid memories of when I was working during the riots ... Branford Place didnt look like this but Springfield Avenue and South Orange Avenue did. Details for the riot scenes include smashed-in windows, store wares strewn across the hose-soaked streets and background actors playing National Guardsmen, state troopers and Newark police. Engler, 77, now a financial adviser, serves as a technical adviser on the film, specializing in Newark officers and state troopers. Background actors wait to film a riot scene. Aristide Economopoulos | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com The film had originally sought out a retired New York City police lieutenant for technical expertise, but he said he didnt know anything about the Newark riots. One of Englers clients knew the man and passed news of the opportunity to the Newark police veteran. Engler, who is also a Marine Corps veteran, joined the Newark Police Department just before the 1967 riots. We were riding in a radio car the night that it hit the fan, he says. Engler was a few months out of the police academy when several different people stopped his car to tell him that something was going to happen that night. He relayed the chatter to his captain, who assured him that everything was under control. An hour later, Engler was sent to the 4th Precinct. We had a total of 10 shotguns in the entire city," he recalls. The next night, everyone was bringing in shotguns and rifles from home. We would ride four in a car and the rifles and shotguns would be sticking out of every window in the car." Luther Engler, right, a retired Newark police officer, advises actors on how to frisk someone. Engler was new to the force when the riots broke out in 1967. Aristide Economopoulos | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com Before his first day on set Tuesday, Engler, who was a police captain when he retired from the force, trained background actors at the Brooklyn Navy Yard Monday, advising them on how officers would pat someone down and how they would react to people shooting at them. The police veteran says he was shot at during the riots. Others threw rocks, bottles and Molotov cocktails at police. We had orders not to return fire, he says. That is, until the chief issued a midnight message over the radio, giving them permission to do just that, Engler says. This is the first time Ive done something like this, Engler says of working on the film. Im having a really good time." He wonders if he can parlay his experience on set into additional work as a technical consultant for movies. The Many Saints of Newark," co-written by Sopranos creator David Chase and Lawrence Konner, is due out in theaters on Sept. 25, 2020, more than 13 years after the end of the iconic HBO series. The cast includes Michael Gandolfini, 19, son of Tony Soprano originator James Gandolfini, who died in 2013. Michael plays a young Tony. Alessandro Nivola plays Dickie Moltisanti, father to series regular Christopher Moltisanti and mentor to Tony (Moltisanti translates to the titles many saints"). Actor Alessandro Nivola, left, talks to a crew member during a break in filming. Scenes depicting the 1967 Newark riots are filmed on Bradford Place in Newark for The Many Saints of Newark movie which is the Sopranos prequel. Wednesday May 8, 2019. (Aristide Economopoulos | NJ Advance Media)Aristide Economopoulos | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com Nivola was on set Wednesday night wearing a 60s-appropriate shirt with vertical stripes for a scene in which a car stops abruptly when Newark residents come running down the street. One of the men in the group wore a shirt stained with blood. On the fourth night of Ramadan, the sound of prayer at the Islamic Cultural Center, located in a building on Branford Place near Halsey Street, piped into the scene from the mosque above as background actors rehearsed. Director Alan Taylor inspected the movements of the classic car, which was rigged with a camera and covered in equipment, then attached to a cable for the dramatic stop scene. Taylor, whose directors chair was stationed in a storefront for Rosenbluth Furniture another creation of the set designer has directed nine episodes of The Sopranos." A 2007 installment titled Kennedy and Heidi won him an Emmy. Taylor has also directed episodes of Game of Thrones and Mad Men" along with movies including Thor: The Dark World and Terminator: Genisys. Actors, including a man with a bloody shirt and face, run during one of the riot scenes. (Aristide Economopoulos | NJ Advance Media)Aristide Economopoulos | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com Nivola stopped for a smoking break ahead of what would be a very long night. Engler was told to expect the filming to wrap by 5 a.m. on Thursday before starting up again at 6 p.m. Thursday and Friday. On Tuesday, work on the movie spanned the entire day and continued through 2 a.m. that night. One spectator, who prefers to be known by his first name, Bilal, watched the filming outside his familys Casanova menswear store. For the movie, the shop was transformed into a 1967-style retailer called Bachmanns Formal Wear, and the owners were compensated (Bilal will not divulge the amount, but says it wasnt enough). Still, he says the filmmakers didnt live up to their promises. They presented it as its going to be very small, minimal disruption, he says. Now, its quite the opposite. Bilal says representatives for the production told him the street would be blocked off starting at 4 p.m., with filming starting at 6, but the street was unavailable starting at 9 a.m. Wednesday. No cars or customers could get through, he says, adding that he was also told filming would move to the other end of the street by Thursday, but has since learned the production could continue in the same spot through Friday. With all of that being said, its definitely neat and cool to see," he says. But cool doesnt pay the bills. Have a tip? Amy Kuperinsky may be reached at akuperinsky@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @AmyKup or on Facebook. Get the latest updates right in your inbox. Subscribe to NJ.coms newsletters. The states top law enforcement official said Newark exceeded its authority when it gave a civilian group investigatory and disciplinary powers to probe misconduct in the citys police department. Attorney General Gurbir Grewal issued his opinion in a written brief as part of an ongoing legal battle between the Fraternal Order of Police and the city over the scope of the Civilian Complaint Review Board. The board was created in 2016 in response to a scathing report by the U.S. Department of Justice that found a pattern unconstitutional arrests and use of force among the citys police ranks. Newark signed a consent decree with the federal government, that, in part, directed the creation a civilian oversight group. Mayor Ras Baraka, who pushed for the boards broad powers, said he was disappointed by Grewals brief. Thousands of residents have filed complaints of abuse and police brutality. Hundreds of New Jersey residents have mourned their loved ones who have been shot and killed by police officers or died while in police custody," Baraka said in a lengthy statement Wednesday. Maintaining the Attorney Generals current position will leave many children subject to the misconduct that we have become all too familiar with, and simply puts their lives in jeopardy. Baraka asked Grewal that if the boards investigatory powers violated the Attorney General guidelines, that Grewal update those rules. Grewals brief is a blow to the citys efforts to reverse a Superior Court decision that essentially stripped the civilian review board of its subpoena powers last year. Newark appealed the decision and a hearing is scheduled on Monday. We were confident that the Attorney General would see the (Civilian Complaint Review Board) matter from our point of view, said James Stewart Jr., president of the FOP. Its our belief that theyre entitled to review the policies of the department and were all for that ... our issue is what weve voiced in court and thats the subpoena powers. Its just not permissible in New Jersey. Grewal said giving the civilian board such authority conflicts with state law and duplicates existing police functions. He wrote that the powers afforded to the board by the Newark City Council in March 2016 went above and beyond what was required in the federal consent decree, impermissibly interfered with the statutory duties of Newarks police chief and intrudes on the forces internal affairs function. The 11-member civilian review board, made up of council members (or their representatives) and members of various nonprofit groups in the city, continues to meet. Members only review departmental policies and conduct oversight, but do not conduct independent investigations, city spokesman Frank Baraff said. Karen Yi may be reached at kyi@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter at @karen_yi or on Facebook. Get the latest updates right in your inbox. Subscribe to NJ.coms newsletters. Two people arrested for their alleged roles in a large-scale shoplifting incident that ended with a co-conspirator shot dead by police have been indicted. Chanel L. Barnes, Raoul A. Gadson and LaShanda Anderson allegedly tried to steal more than $3,400 in merchandise from a Marshalls store in Deptford Township on June 9, 2018. Store loss prevention officers intercepted them as they headed for the door with the stolen items jammed in a suitcase and a scuffle ensued. The shoplifters abandoned the goods and ran. Anderson and Barnes jumped into the trios SUV and Gadson took off on foot. As Anderson drove off, arriving Deptford police officers attempted to stop her. Investigators say Anderson tried to run down Deptford Sgt. Kevin A. Clements, who fired three shots at the SUV, killing Anderson, 36, of Philadelphia. A Gloucester County Prosecutors Office investigation cleared Clements of any wrongdoing in the incident, but the FBI is now reviewing that finding. LaShanda Anderson was shot to death when she allegedly tried to run down a Deptford Township police officer in 2018. Barnes, 39, of Philadelphia, was taken into custody at the scene and Gadson, 43, also of Philly, was arrested days later. A Gloucester County grand jury indicted both of them last month on charges of second-degree robbery, third-degree shoplifting, and third-degree conspiracy. Neither appeared in court Friday for post-indictment arraignments and bench warrants were issued, according to court records. Gadson remains jailed in Pennsylvania for an unrelated case and Barnes is apparently free. Gadson was previously charged in connection with a 2017 shoplifting at a Marshalls in Moorestown. His record in Pennsylvania goes back to the early 1990s and includes primarily theft and drug charges. Barnes prior record includes 14 disorderly persons convictions, six indictable convictions and two failures to appear. Those cases mainly involved retail thefts. When Marshalls employees spotted Barnes, Gadson and Anderson allegedly stealing merchandise at the Deptford store last June, a worker called 911 and stated that one of the suspects was sought in connection with a homicide. That turned out to be false. Gadson allegedly assaulted a loss prevention officer during the encounter, according to his criminal complaint, which notes that a Marshalls employee suffered bodily injury and a ripped shirt. The three were known to Marshalls from prior shoplifting incidents, and Anderson was wanted by Delaware police following thefts from Marshalls stores in that state. Matt Gray may be reached at mgray@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @MattGraySJT. 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. WEST NEW YORK Has another politician seen their career rise and fall as dramatically as West New York Mayor Felix Roque in just eight years? Roque wrested control of Town Hall from Hudson Countys Democratic establishment in 2011; was arrested with his son by federal agents on conspiracy and hacking charges in 2012; got a jury acquittal in 2013; won re-election in May 2015; was indicted 27 days later on kickback allegations related to his medical practice; won another jury acquittal in 2016; and fell out of favor with the Hudson County Democratic Organization last year when he backed the wrong candidate in the Democratic chair fight. On Tuesday, Roque, 62, will find out how many lives he has, as he competes for a third term against some aggressive challengers including three of his former allies who say he is the reason this town of 53,000 on the Hudson River waterfront has not lived up to its potential. Asked about his legal troubles and shunning by the HCDO, Roque said they were part of an effort by Democratic leaders to destroy his political career. He has fought back and won and hell do it again Tuesday, he said. They want a yes man, but Im not a yes man, Roque said. I cannot be manipulated. I'm not a puppet to any politician. I work for the town I work for the taxpayers West New York Commissioner Gabriel Rodriguez, center, with commissioners Cosmo A. Cirillo, left, and Margarita Guzman at the April 17, 2019 commissioner meeting. Reena Rose Sibayan | The Jersey Journal West New York voters will select who will serve on the five-member board of commissioners (the commissioners then appoint one member of the body as mayor). Sixteen people are running. Three slates, including one headed by Roque, are competing along with two men running solo. Voters are not required to vote by slate. Municipal races here are low-turnout affairs. Roque won re-election in 2015 with about 2,800 votes and his chief competitor nabbed about 2,100. The town has 23,691 registered voters, most of them Democrats or unaffiliated. Roque is heading one ticket with incumbent Commissioner Susan M. Colacurcio, Maite Fernandez, Ana D. Luna and Richard Acosta. The rest of the current commissioners Gabriel Rodriguez, Cosmo A. Cirillo and Margarita A. Guzman are seeking re-election on a separate slate with Victor M. Barrera and Yoleisy Yanez. The third slate includes Anthony Valdes, Manuel Andujar Jr., Claudia Calderon and Armando M. Galis-Menendez. Ronald C. Scheurle and Adil S. Ahmed round out the list of candidates. Rodriguez, 40, is heading his slate, which has given itself the name New Beginnings and has the support of U.S. Rep. Albio Sires, a former West New York mayor. Rodriguez, Cirillo and Guzman, all incumbents, were aligned with Roque in 2015 but now oppose him. Rodriguez told The Jersey Journal the break was not solely because of last years HCDO chair fight, but it didnt help. Rodriguez and his running mates favored Amy DeGise, who won, and Roque supported Union City Mayor and state Sen. Brian Stack. Roque remains and consistently has been, No. 1, an absentee mayor. He is never around. He is not accessible, not only to the residents but to us, Rodriguez said. He broke away from us by not consulting us, not giving us time to work on projects together, to work on initiatives together. Roque disputed this notion, saying that even when hes not in his mayoral office, hes accessible. The mayor is not supposed to be locked in Town Hall, he said. I should be touching the pulse of the community." A local school district administrator, Rodriguez said if elected his slates first goal would be to approve a parking plan that includes dissolving the West New York Parking Authority and bonding to build parking garages on municipal lots. The plan was voted down by the commissioner board last month after Roque and Colacurcio voted no. That meeting, on April 17, was wild even by West New York standards. Over 150 people gathered inside a stuffy Town Hall to watch the proceedings, cheer for their favored candidates and boo their opponents. Police officers warned audience members multiple times to quiet down. They didnt. Thank you for coming, Roque said when he entered to cheers and applause. How much did you pay them? a woman yelled at him. Attorney Adil S. Ahmed discusses his bid to become a West New York commissioner in his campaign office on May 8, 2019. Terrence T. McDonald | The Jersey JournalTerrence T. McDonald | The Jersey Journal Ahmed, a 31-year-old attorney and six-year resident of West New York, is a first-time candidate who decries the circus-like atmosphere of the towns political world. Ahmed said he wants more planning for the future. He envisions an expanded park surrounding the Miller stadium, one that he believes could be an amazing community gathering space, but one he said the towns commissioners cannot implement because of political dysfunction. They cant implement it under a raucous government, a government thats always fighting and always thinking about whos going to be mayor and whos going to have control of this department or that department, he said. You cant plan for 10 years if youre only thinking about two to three. Scheurle, a 76-year-old funeral director, said he wants the town to award fewer tax abatements, create more parking by swapping parallel parking spaces for angled spaces and curb major real-estate development. Why are we building these big buildings when we could build one- to three-family houses? he said. Scheurle, who said his family has been in West New York for over 100 years, is running with the slogan Make the Town Great Again. Polls open at 6 a.m. Tuesday. Terrence T. McDonald may be reached at tmcdonald@jjournal.com. Follow him on Twitter @terrencemcd. Find The Jersey Journal on Facebook. A Hoboken business man has been charged with bilking investors out of $750,000 they gave him to open a World of Beer bar in the Mile Square City, authorities announced Thursday. Nirav Patel, 39, was indicted Wednesday on the charge of theft by deception for allegedly using the money invested for the bar for his own personal and business expenses, New Jersey Attorney General Gurbir S. Grewal said in a statement. When New Jersey residents invest their hard-earned money, they are entitled to nothing less than a fair and honest deal, Grewal said. We are committed to protecting investors by diligently investigating allegations of financial fraud and prosecuting dishonest operators. Patel is a real estate and business investor focusing on restaurants and bars in New Jersey and New York. In 2014 he solicited the money for the World of Beer franchise in Hoboken, officials said. The defendant is charged with a second-degree offense that carries a possible sentence of five to 10 years in prison upon conviction. A message seeking comment from Patels attorney, Edward W. Cillick, was not immediately returned Thursday. Ahmad Mohamed of Jersey City preyed on the sick, purchasing Medicaid prescription medicines, sometimes worth tens of thousands of dollars, from patients for between $20 and $100, officials allege. He funneled the drugs to the owner of a Manhattan pharmacy, who then waited for the drugs to expire. At that time, the medications were sold back to pharmaceutical companies at up to 85 percent of their value in what officials say amounted to an $11 million medicine-for-cash scheme. Attorney General Gurbir S. Grewal announced Thursday that a months-long investigation has led to the arrest of Mohamed and 18 others, many of whom are Hudson County residents. Medicaid is designed to provide much-needed medical care to lower-income Americans, not to line the pockets of fraudsters and cheats, Grewal said. By cracking down on this type of fraud, were not just protecting taxpayers, were protecting the integrity of our medical system," Grewal added. The most expensive drugs trafficked were Hepatitis C medications Vosevi, Epclusa, and Zepatier. A 30-day prescription for the medications have a wholesale cost of about $24,900, $24,350, and $18,200, respectively. Medications for HIV and other illnesses were also trafficked, officials allege. The Medicaid beneficiaries filled their prescription at no cost to them and their pharmacies were reimbursed the wholesale cost of the drugs through Medicaid. Rather than take the medications, those involved in the scheme sold them for a fraction of the cost, officials said. Mohamed, 62, delivered the drugs to Elfatih Ibrahim, 58, who used his status as a licensed pharmacist and owner of Maxwell Pharmacy in Manhattan to return the expired drugs to wholesalers and distributors under the pretense that his pharmacy had legitimately purchased them, authorities said. Elfatih Ibrahim, 58, of Brooklyn, is charged as the "ringleader" in an $11 million Medicaid fraud scheme with it's roots in Hudson County. The alleged scheme that operated from January to August of 2018 allowed Ibrahim, the ringleader, to pocket thousands of dollars for each prescription brought to him by Mohamed, the runner, officials said. Weve taken down a network of alleged criminals that stole millions of dollars from a program intended as a safety net for those who otherwise could not afford healthcare, said Acting Insurance Fraud Prosecutor Tracy M. Thompson said. Ibrahim and Mohamed are charged with conspiracy, possession with intent to distribute prescription drugs and Medicaid fraud. The most serious charge carries a sentence of five to 10 years in prison, officials said. The five people who allegedly collected and then sold the drugs are charged with conspiracy and Medicaid fraud. They are Jersey City residents Constance Douglas, 52; Kendall Brown, 55; Hiram Estrada-Garcia, 37, and Mohamed Gaafar, 62, as well as John Schmalberger, 60, of Morganville, officials said. Twelve individuals who allegedly sold their own prescription drugs in the scheme were charged with Medicaid fraud. They include Jersey City residents Michelle Hazelwood, 50, Dawn Jackson, 50, Marcus Colon, 38, Rhonda Hoffman, 49, Margaret Moore, 47, Michael Garland, 49, Wayne Jones, 58, and Shawn Morris, 47, officials said. Also facing the Medicaid fraud charge are Bayonne residents Julissa Borges, 48, and Sobhy Eid, 60, Kearny resident Alexander Cotto, 37, Newark resident Brenda Noel, 60, officials said. The investigation also resulted in the recovery of more than $6.8 million in diverted prescription medications and more than $4 million in alleged illegal profits from the scheme. This brazen raid on the Medicaid system is a crime against all New Jersey taxpayers," Thompson added. "We urge everyone to fight back by reporting insurance fraud that makes victims of us all. With the HobokenArts 2019 Spring Showcase in full swing, three of its artists; Sebastian McLaughlin, Paul Leibow, and Bryant Small will be featured in an Artist Talks series on Saturday, May 11, at the Project Studios Gallery at Neumann Leathers Factory in Hoboken. Beginning the event will be Sebastian McLaughlin. McLaughlin is from the seaside town of Buncrana in northwest Ireland and currently resides in Jersey City. His work in the 2019 Spring Showcase is part of the series Place in Time, as it involves the study and exploration into the sentiment of place in time. As an immigrant to the U.S., he was amazed at how a place like Brooklyn could feel so familiar not only because it was in a different country but even in its contrast to a rural environment. McLaughlin will discuss how through his visual exploration, he attempted to capture a specific moment to give the viewer the opportunity to reflect on the passing of time and how it impacts not only a place physically but elements within them as well. Following McLaughlin is Paul Leibow, a New Jersey artist who works in sculpture, mixed media, and film. His work ranges from depictions of the human figure to 2D and 3D collage with anachronistic mixed media using films and gels illuminated behind acrylic glass. Some of Leibows large format paintings have been included in this years Spring Showcase, some of which incorporate iconic imagery such as Felix the Cat, which he calls his Feel Licks series. Leibow will discuss his inspiration and process for these works. He will also answer questions about any aspect of his career as an artist. Closing out the Artist Talks discussion will be Bryant Small, a Jersey City abstract artist who works primarily in alcohol ink painting. Small will discuss his work in the 2019 Spring Showcase and talk about how painting started out as a fun activity. He has shown his work in several collective and individual shows in New Jersey and has pieces that are part of private collections around the world. Gallery hours for the Artist Talks event are 1 to 3 p.m. The Project Studios Gallery at Neumann Leathers Factory is located at 300 Observer Hwy, 2nd Fl., Bldg. H, Hoboken. JERSEY CITY Tracy Reinholt always dreaded her son, Hunter, would struggle with drugs. His father battled addiction until the boy was 8 years old, which Reinholt said traumatized her and her son. But it left Hunter a mischievous, daring child with what his mom thinks was a deep-seated curiosity about drugs. How do they make you feel? Why would a father choose that feeling over his own son? It's been my fear his whole life that this is something we would struggle with, she said. It actually never occurred to me that it would take him from me I never let myself go there." Hunter was taken from his mother on Easter Sunday. She found him that morning sitting lifeless in a chair, the victim of a drug overdose. The Marist High School student was 15 years old. Reinholt, 46, who lives on Jersey Citys West Side, spoke to The Jersey Journal about her sons death just two days after his wake. She wants parents to see Hunters overdose as a warning about the dangers of drug curiosity and the easy availability of prescription pills. She included that warning in Hunters obituary, becoming another in an increasingly and frighteningly long line of parents who have used the death notices of their children to shine a light on addiction. My brave beautiful soul lost his life because he chose to experiment just one time with something all too dangerous, she wrote. The epidemic of prescription drugs is all too real please spread the word far and wide especially to your children. Reinholt with a photo of Hunter. Reinholt and Hunter were visiting her father in Arizona during the boys spring break. They watched Avengers: Infinity War on the Saturday before Easter, then Reinholt went to bed at 10 p.m. Hunter left her room with a love ya, mom," and that was the last time she spoke to him. She found his body the next morning. Its a moment where you know something you dont want to know and you cant take it back and you want to turn back time, Reinholt said. Like, I knew. I just I knew. His grandfather discovered some of his prescription pills were missing, including gabapentin he took for bursitis and arthritis. The drug was created to help treat seizures and nerve pain, but the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has recommended it as a safer alternative to opioids. Reinholts father had a three-month supply, meaning 90 pills. Reinholt said this was Hunters first experiment with pills. They had an open relationship and he spilled his guts to her about everything, she said. He didnt always love telling me but he always trusted me with whatever was going on," she said. "I know he hadnt done it before. But I also know he hadnt had access to it before. Researchers began seeing a rise in gabapentins use in recent years. Kentucky in 2017 became the first state to classify the 25-year-old drug as a scheduled substance, which subjects it to more restrictions. Other states like Ohio and Minnesota began tracking it. Lipi Roy is an internal medicine and addiction medicine doctor who teaches at NYU Langone Health. She said the stigma surrounding substance abuse is a reason most people with addictions do not seek help. When parents like Reinholt refrain from staying hush hush when their loved ones die from drugs, Roy said, they help destigmatize addiction. Roy added that in some places in the country that have been hit hard by the opioid crisis, parents are well informed about the dangers of keeping prescription pills within the reach of their children, but in other places there have not been enough public health campaigns to warn parents of those dangers. If we had a leukemia epidemic, I promise you we would be educating people right, left and center about all the risk factors and causes and treatment for leukemia, but we just dont do that for addiction and drugs in general because of our perception of drugs being bad and that people who use drugs are bad, Roy said. Reinholt is setting up a foundation in Hunters name, though shes not sure yet what she wants to do with it. Until she figures that out, she hopes her story will help convince parents to be vigilant about drugs. I do have a lot of other kids in my life that I love very much and would like to make sure that this never happens again," she said. Terrence T. McDonald may be reached at tmcdonald@jjournal.com. Follow him on Twitter @terrencemcd. Find The Jersey Journal on Facebook. The Jets on Thursday signed their first draft pick of this years class fourth-round tight end Trevon Wesco, a person with knowledge of the contract confirmed to NJ Advance Media. Wesco, a West Virginia product who is primarily a blocking tight end, is expected to be in attendance this weekend when the Jets hold their rookie orientation. It will be different from a traditional rookie minicamp, in that the Jets wont actually hold practices. The orientation begins Friday, when the Jets 2019 draft picks will address reporters. Here is a breakdown of Wescos projected contract details, via overthecap.com: Overall draft position: 121st Maximum length: Four years Total maximum value: $3,226,576 Signing bonus: $706,576 (only guaranteed money in deal) 2019 salary cap figure: $671,644 2020: $761,644 2021: $851,644 2022: $941,644 Buy Jets tickets: StubHub, SeatGeek, Ticketmaster The Jets drafted six players this year. The five unsigned players are defensive tackle Quinnen Williams (first round), edge rusher Jachai Polite (third), offensive tackle Chuma Edoga (third), linebacker Blake Cashman (fifth), and cornerback Blessuan Austin (sixth). Darryl Slater may be reached at dslater@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @DarrylSlater. Find NJ.com Jets on Facebook. THE LATEST: N.J.s marijuana bill nearly dead. That means you may get to vote on making weed legal. 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. Talk has gotten increasingly louder in Trenton lately that New Jerseys leaders are losing hope theyll be able to secure enough votes in the state Legislature to legalize marijuana and may have the states voters decide at the ballot box instead. But Gov. Phil Murphy said Thursday he hasnt given up on passing the bill, even though he admitted a voter referendum is a possibility. We came very close to this not that long ago, Murphy said during an unrelated news conference outside his office in Trenton. It just didnt get there. The referendum has always been out there as an option, the Democratic governor added. Only one state has done this legislatively. Thats Vermont. We have felt that this is a better way to go, Murphy continued. It takes more courage. Its a tough vote for many. We understand that. Thats still, in my opinion, the preferred route. I want to exhaust that with legislative leadership before we talk about a plan B. Standing next to him, state Assembly Speaker Craig Coughlin said a ballot question remains an option. Were still not over the goal line, Coughlin, D-Middlesex, said. We have work to do. Whether in fact we get there or not remains to be seen. And if we dont, then I think we need to continue to look for ways to do it. Murphy campaigned on legalizing marijuana, not just for the tax revenue but to improve social justice in the state. He routinely cites statistics that show people of color are three times as likely to be arrested for marijuana offenses than whites in New Jersey. But even though his fellow Democrats control the Legislature, lawmakers from both major parties have been against the idea. In March, a planned vote in the state Legislature on the bill was canceled when it became clear there werent enough votes in the state Senate. Leaders hoped to hold another vote in May. They say its better to do this legislatively rather than through a referendum because it gives them more flexibility to shape and fix the program, while leaving it to voters is less predictable. But multiple sources have told NJ Advance Media a vote in the Legislature looks increasingly unlikely, and the chances are growing that voters will decide whether it be this November or next. One source said Thursday that it would definitely be next year, because voter turnout is expected to be larger, with a presidential race on the ticket. Murphy, Coughlin, and state Senate President Stephen Sweeney, D-Gloucester, were scheduled to meet about a number of issues, including pot. But Sweeney skipped at the last minute. I had (another) meeting, he told NJ Advance Media. It was an important meeting. It was a good meeting. The move comes as tension continues to mount between Murphy and Sweeney over an investigation into the states tax break program. The panel is examining whether companies with ties to South Jersey power broker George Norcross III, a Sweeney ally, misused the incentives. Norcross on Wednesday defended himself in an interview with NJ Advance Media, saying the breaks were used to help revive his hometown of Camden and calling Murphy a liar. Murphy and Coughlin both stressed Thursday that the state needs to legalize weed to get away from the status quo. How could anyone be happy with the status quo? Murphy asked. Our kids are exposed, the bad guys run the business, none of the social injustices have been addressed. Brent Johnson may be reached at bjohnson@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @johnsb01. 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. A 24-year-old man stole $5,000 in musical equipment from a church in Middlesex County and then attempted to sell the items at pawn shops, authorities said Wednesday. Brendan Wetzel, of Morrisville, Pennsylvania, turned himself in at South Brunswick police headquarters on Wednesday, more than six months after breaking into St. Marys Baptist Church on Broadway Road on Nov. 6, police said. He was charged with burglary, criminal mischief and theft of movable property from a church. All of the items - including the churchs public address system, speakers, a rack mount and a keyboard have been returned to the church, according to Pastor Keith Oden. Weve forgiven him, but I dont want this to ever happen again, Oden said by phone Thursday. After the church reported the break-in, South Brunswick police alerted local musical equipment stores and pawn shops about the burglary and asked them to be on the lookout for the stolen goods. Hours later, a music equipment store in Middletown, Pennsylvania called their local police to let them know a suspicious man was trying to sell items. Wetzel left the store before police arrived, but he was quickly pulled over, South Brunswick police said. Middletown police found musical equipment strewn across his back seat and were able to determine one of the items belonged to St. Marys Baptist Church. Wetzel was then arrested and charged with possession of stolen property. South Brunswick police and the detectives from the Middlesex County Prosecutors Office tech unit continued to investigate, though. They later uncovered photos taken at a park behind the church from the morning of the burglary and evidence from other locations, including the Guitar Center in East Brunswick, that linked Wetzel to the church burglaries. A house of worship is a special place and all our resources and partners were committed to finding who did this crime," South Brunswick Chief Raymond Hayducka said. "It took hours to recover the music instruments and months to follow the electronic footprint to link the suspect to the burglary, but in the end we got him. Jeff Goldman may be reached at jeff_goldman@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @JeffSGoldman. Have a tip? Tell us. nj.com/tips Get the latest updates right in your inbox. Subscribe to NJ.coms newsletters. The New Jersey Attorney Generals Office is backing a woman who says her former boss outed her to a new employee and discriminated against her, saying in a team meeting that she should use her gaydar to figure out if a new client was gay. Brandy Rodriguez, who was employed at Metropolitan Healthcare Billing in Eatontown, Monmouth County, for over two years before the company fired her in 2016, shortly after she complained about the remark. Rodriguez alleges in complaint to the offices Division on Civil Rights that at the beginning of a staff-wide meeting in October 2016, her supervisor, Director of Business Operations Marissa Malmstrom, made a comment that Rodriguez, who is gay, could use her gaydar to determine if a new client was also a lesbian. In addition to being embarrassed by the comment, Rodriguez says she was outed to a new employee who was at the meeting. Attorney General Gurbir S. Grewal announced Thursday that the Civil Rights division has issued a finding of probable cause, justifying that Rodriguez has sufficient evidence to support that Metropolitan violated New Jerseys Law Against Discrimination. Rodriguez, stated that she was open about her sexual orientation, but she never told Malmstrom or any other employees that she was comfortable with other people speaking about her sexual orientation to individuals who might not know, the complaint says. And, because the comment took place during an all-staff meeting, it not only outed Rodriguez, but, indicated to staff that the sexual orientation of a client would be a relevant and appropriate topic of inquiry and discussion in the workplace." The day after the team meeting, Rodriguez went to speak with Malmstrom about the incident and a recent performance review. When Rodriguez said she wanted to speak with Malmstroms boss, the companys owner, Malmstrom fired her. I will do you one better, you are terminated effective immediately," Malmstrom said, according to the complaint. Rodriguezs complaint alleges her former employer discriminated against her based on sexual orientation, and Metropolitans human resources coordinator was the supervisors sister, and Rodriguez had nowhere else to report the incident. Employers are responsible for creating and maintaining a work environment where all employees are treated with equality, dignity and respect, regardless of their membership in a protected class, Grewal said in a statement. It is not acceptable for employers to retaliate against workers who invoke their legal rights and report discriminatory conduct." Paige Gross may be reached at pgross@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @By_paigegross. Find NJ.com on Facebook. Have a tip?Tell us. nj.com/tips. In December when a measles outbreak in New Jersey appeared to be winding down Brian Rumpf struck a note of warning. The state assemblyman and Ocean County Health Department official said that still more outbreaks in the state could be on the horizon. Its still a matter of the outbreak is still continuing in various parts of New York state, Rumpf said at the time. The potential still exists with additional exposures. Rumpf has been proven both right and wrong. That first outbreak in New Jersey ended in January after 33 total cases, after which Rumpfs fears were realized another flare-up began in the state in February. Yet so far New Jersey has been able to avoid a major public health crisis like the ones happening in Brooklyn and Rockland County in New York, considered to be the epicenters of the current measles outbreak. The reason has to do as much with the complexities of Orthodox Jewish populations that reside in these communities as it does with rapid state and community response to the New Jersey cases thus far. Both Kings County, home to Brooklyn, and Rockland County have sizable Orthodox Jewish populations, as does Lakewood in Ocean County, the community which has had the most cases of measles in New Jersey thus far. Since the February reemergence of measles in New Jersey, there have been 14 cases in the state, eight of which have been in Ocean County, according to the state Department of Health. Four cases were reported in one Monmouth County household and earlier this year there was one case each in Bergen and Essex counties. Compare that to the New York statistics. There have been 215 confirmed cases of measles in Rockland County and 466 measles cases in New York City, according to the respective departments of health. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says that most measles cases in the U.S. are in Orthodox Jewish communities. New York City officials there have shut down multiple Orthodox Jewish schools, according to the New York Times, and have required people in certain neighborhoods to get vaccinated. New Jersey officials havent yet had to take such drastic steps. Its been relatively quiet, said Brian Lippai, spokesman for the Ocean County Health Department, about the recent measles outbreak in Lakewood. "Overall, weve had great communication within the community. It seems like theres a greater grasp on the importance of (vaccines) in Lakewood. Since the first Ocean County outbreak was declared last year, the New Jersey state Health Department has worked with local health officials to deliver more than 12,500 doses of the measles-mumps-rubella vaccine in the county, said Health Department spokeswoman Nicole Kirgan. News reports from Lakewood reflect the panic that went through the town when the first recent measles outbreak emerged last year. Local website the Lakewood Scoop last year reported long lines at vaccination clinics and hourlong holds for people calling to get information on the measles vaccine. Prominent Lakewood doctor Reuven Shanik urged Lakewoods Orthodox schools to reject any children who had not been vaccinated, the Scoop reported. Arguably an even more important factor in fewer number of New Jersey outbreaks: Some of the misinformation campaigns about vaccinations that have affected the Orthodox communities in New York simply have not taken hold in Lakewood, according to an article in the Jewish publication The Forward. In some communities, like in the Williamsburg neighborhood in Brooklyn and in Rockland County, the anti-vaccination message has come from prominent rabbis. One of those is Brooklyn rabbi William Handler, who has pushed the debunked link between the measles-mumps-rubella vaccine and autism. He told Vox that parents who placate the gods of vaccination are engaging in child sacrifice. Even though some of these prominent rabbis spreading anti-vaccination rhetoric in many Jewish communities, Israeli publication Haaretz reported that any public perception that Orthodox communities are generally opposed to vaccinations is false. Anti-vax campaigns are certainly not unique to Orthodox communities. Similar to the wider population, outspoken anti-vaccination messengers have gained traction. But a number of other factors make Orthodox communities more susceptible to measles and similar viruses and thus particularly vulnerable when members of the community avoid vaccines. Orthodox families have more children on average than the general population, according to the Pew Research Center. Infants typically arent vaccinated until they are many months old, creating a large unvaccinated population within Jewish communities, even when vaccines are given. Ocean Countys current outbreak has affected people from 5 months old to 51 years old, according to the county Health Department. Orthodox Jews also often travel to parts of the world with ongoing measles outbreaks. The current outbreak in the United States has been linked to a child who contracted the virus in Israel before flying back to New York, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Israels outbreak began in March 2018 and has been traced back to a Rosh Hashana pilgrimage in Ukraine, the New York Times reported. Those factors have led to the biggest measles outbreak in the United States since it was declared eliminated in this country in 2000. Thats not to say there havent been flare-ups in recent years. In fact, there were 667 measles cases in the United States in 2014. But already this year there have been 764 confirmed cases of measles in the country, CDC stats show. And while Lakewood and New Jersey have so far missed the worst of the measles outbreak, Health Department spokeswoman Kirgan said local and state officials are continuing to offer education and vaccines for vulnerable people to try to keep the number of cases low. Payton Guion may be reached at PGuion@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @PaytonGuion. Have a tip? Tell us. nj.com/tips Get the latest updates right in your inbox. Subscribe to NJ.coms newsletters. High school teacher Rebecca Drakes personal life got complicated last year. Her house had been foreclosed on, she and her ex-husband were in court with a bankruptcy filing and she was about to have her third baby. Facing extreme personal circumstances Drake temporarily moved in with her boyfriend in Pennsylvania, about 10 miles from the New Jersey border, her attorney said. All was fine until her employer found out. The Somerville Board of Education hired a private investigator to track Drake to the house in Newtown, Pennsylvania, where the investigator watched the English teacher walk out the door at 8:34 a.m. and take her kids to school, according to court papers. That was enough for the Somerville school district to go to court to try to get the tenured teacher fired after 12 years in the district. In a lawsuit filed last year, the school districts attorneys argued Drake violated the New Jersey First Act, a 2011 state law that requires public officials -- from state agency workers to county clerks to local school teachers -- to live in New Jersey. Drake has spent the last year in court trying to keep her job, arguing in legal papers that the state law violates her "fundamental rights and is unconstitutional. Her attorney questions whether it really matters to Somerville High School students whether their English teacher sleeps at night in New Jersey or a few miles over the Pennsylvania border. We dont think it has a bearing on the quality of the education you get, said Richard Friedman, the Trenton attorney representing Drake. The school districts attorneys say Somerville plans to continue the case -- even though Drake has since gotten a waiver from a state board to allow her to bypass the law to live out of state because of her financial hardship. Ms. Drake was given an opportunity to tender her resignation, but she refused to do so, necessitating that Somerville file the lawsuit at issue. We are confident that Somerville will prevail in this case and trust that the court will require her to pay the districts legal fees and costs so that the taxpayers dont have to do so," said Marc Zitomer, the school districts attorney. Drake is still employed by the school district in her $75,401-a-year teaching post, though she is currently on medical leave, her attorney said. The attorneys for both sides continue to trade legal briefs as the case slowly moves toward a trial in Superior Court in Somerset County. "Unfortunately, all of this could have been avoided if Ms. Drake simply did the right thing and resigned once she moved to Pennsylvania, Zitomer said. Under the New Jersey First law signed by Gov. Chris Christie in 2011, nearly all public employees are required to live in the state. The only exceptions are for workers who can prove a financial hardship, cite a health reason or provide proof they are critical in their workplace. Any employee who was already living out of state when the law was signed in 2011 is grandfathered in and doesnt need to move. But other employees, including Drake, who were already living in New Jersey are required to stay in the state if they want to keep their public jobs. An NJ Advance Media analysis of state records published in April found at least 2,310 public employees have bypassed the law and gotten a pass to live out of state because they successfully applied for exemptions. Drake applied to the state Employee Residency Review Committee for an exemption, citing her financial problems, in December 2017. But her application was rejected. Her attorney said Drake did not show up for the hearing in Trenton, which is optional, and the committee rejected her application because she did not provide enough paperwork documenting her financial problems. She applied again in May 2018 and was granted the exemption by the committee, allowing her to live out of state as long as she has her teaching job in Somerville. However, by the time she got the waiver, the school district had already filed its lawsuit to fire her, according to the lawsuit. Drake has filed a counter claim in court, alleging she is being discriminated against because she took a maternity leave and family leave after giving birth to her third child in February 2018, shortly before the school districts lawsuit was filed. Her attorneys said they believe New Jersey is the only state in the nation that requires all public employees, including teachers, to live within the state borders. Many cities and local governments also have laws requiring public employees, including police officers and firefighters, to live within their borders. Friedman, Drakes attorney, says the court rulings that say residency laws are legal date back to the 1950s and 1960s and are ripe for a legal challenge. Meanwhile, Senate Minority Leader Tom Kean Jr., R-Union, is pushing legislation in the state Legislature to kill the New Jersey First law and lift restrictions on where state employees can live. The legislation has been introduced in both the state Senate and Assembly, but had not moved forward. Even if the law is rewritten, it will likely not affect Drakes case. She plans to keep fighting in court to keep her teaching job, her attorney said. Shes not thrilled about it. But shes prepared to see it through, Friedman said. Kelly Heyboer may be reached at kheyboer@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @KellyHeyboer. Find her at KellyHeyboerReporter on Facebook. Find NJ.com on Facebook. Have a tip? Tell us. nj.com/tips Get the latest updates right in your inbox. Subscribe to NJ.coms newsletters. A globetrotting pilot from New Jersey was indicted Thursday on charges he used two young girls to engage in child sexual abuse in the Philippines and brought video recordings of the acts back to the United States, officials said. A federal grand jury returned a five-count indictment charging 63-year-old Frank William Maile with production of child pornography abroad, illicit sexual conduct abroad, and possessing child pornography, according to New Jersey U.S. Attorneys Office. Maile, who worked as a cargo pilot and frequently traveled abroad, was arrested by agents with Homeland Security Investigations last May, authorities said. The retired U.S. Air Force member lives in Hamilton and resided in Plumsted when he was taken into custody. While in the Philippines, Maile took images and videos of two juvenile girls engaging in sex acts between November and December 2015, according to filings in the case. He traveled to the country and engaged in sexual activity with the girls while also making more videos of the young victims. Federal authorities said Maile was caught with more images of child pornography when he was arrested in New Jersey. Among evidence investigators said they discovered in the case were online chats dating to 2013 with a person in the Philippines described as an "arranger or pimp, where they allegedly discussed setting up sex with two underage sisters. During the chats, the arranger told Maile one girl was 14, according to a criminal complaint. From 2013 to 2015, the chats continued and Maile expressed an interest in sex with an underage girl. In a December 2014 chat, one of the victims told Maile it was her 10th birthday, the complaint said. Records from U.S. Customs and Border Protection showed Maile was in the United States when the exchanges occurred. Maile faces a possible minimum 15-year prison term on the producing child pornography abroad charges, a maximum possible 30-year term on the engaging in illicit sexual conduct in a foreign country, and a potential 10-years in prison for the child possession charge. Noah Cohen may be reached at ncohen@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @noahyc. Find NJ.com on Facebook. Have a tip? Tell us. nj.com/tips Get the latest updates right in your inbox. Subscribe to NJ.coms newsletters The city of Elizabeth owes its ousted police director more than $16,000 in unused vacation time after he resigned under pressure from the state attorney general over alleged racist and sexist remarks, records show. Thats on top of the more than $73,000 pension he has received annually since the late 1990s. James Cosgrove stepped down as head of the police department in New Jerseys fourth-largest city earlier this month, amid mounting calls for his removal after an internal investigation substantiated claims he used the n-word and c-word to refer to black and female employees. The scandal shook the roughly 300-officer police department, which Cosgrove had led since 1998. He was a powerful ally of the citys longtime mayor, Chris Bollwage, who himself has served since 1993. City leaders have said little about the controversy, which arose from a complaint brought by a Westfield attorney, Josh McMahon, who claims he represents multiple department whistleblowers. The complaint prompted the Union County Prosecutors Office to take over the city police departments internal affairs functions. State Attorney General Gurbir Grewal later installed one of his top aides as acting prosecutor and announced an audit of the Elizabeth departments employment practices. Bollwage has not responded to questions from NJ Advance Media about Cosgroves replacement. Records obtained by the news organization through the states Open Public Records Act show Cosgrove had no contract or separation agreement. A city spokeswoman previously said Cosgrove made $150,783 annually. At the time of his resignation, he had accrued $16,238.17 in vacation time, the records show. State records show Cosgrove, a former Newark cop who retired in 1998 to lead the Elizabeth police department, also receives about $73,650 annually from his police pension. In late April, the state attorney general who does not have the power to fire a civilian police director took the unusual step of calling for Cosgroves resignation. In a statement, Grewal disclosed that a probe by the prosecutors office found that over the course of many years, Director Cosgrove described his staff using derogatory terms, including racist and misogynistic slurs. Cosgrove has yet to address the claims publicly. He formally stepped down in a terse, one-sentence resignation letter to Bollwage on May 1. Effective Friday, May, 3, 2019, I am resigning from my position as Police Director of the City of Elizabeth, according to the letter, a copy of which was obtained by NJ Advance Media on Thursday. On Tuesday, City Council President William Gallman Jr. came the closest of any official to publicly criticizing Cosgrove, telling constituents he was not pleased with the situation. Gallmans comments were addressed to community activist Salaam Ismial and a small group of supporters who attended the meeting to call out perceived institutional racism in the police department. Ismial posted a video of the exchange on Facebook. Sometimes these things happen," Gallman said. Were not pleased with it at all, none of us. I dont think anyone on the city council is pleased with it and I know the residents arent pleased with it because I have received several calls. He said he had been discussing the situation with Bollwage just about daily and that they were putting a team together to choose the next director. Were going to look into this but were going to take our time. Slow, deliberate and make sure were taking the right steps and doing the right thing because we dont want to make a mistake, he said. Jonathan Gibson, a city resident who is mounting a run for a spot on the council, told NJ Advance Media that about 15 to 20 people attended the meeting but the council restricted public comment on Cosgroves ouster to one person. None of the city council members have responded to NJ Advance Medias requests for comment. S.P. Sullivan may be reached at ssullivan@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter. Rebecca Everett may be reached at reverett@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @rebeccajeverett. 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. Bruce Springsteen made one of his famous surprise appearances on Wednesday as he showed up on stage at Asbury Parks Paramount Theater to jam with E Street Band member Steven Van Zandt. Surprised fans at the show began tweeting about the Springsteen showing as he took to the mic for Tenth Avenue Freeze-Out during the show headlined by Van Zandts band, Little Steven and the Disciples of Soul. The pair also played Sun City and I Dont Want to Go Home." Went to @TeachRock PD tonight in Asbury Park and then got to go to a show and @springsteen shows up to play my favorite tenth avenue!! What a night (excuse my excessive screaming and singing) pic.twitter.com/oZINUOhQs4 Ms. Sullivan (@MsSullivan10) May 9, 2019 The Boss also made a guest appearance at the bands record release show on Saturday night in Beverly Hills. This is Springsteens second unannounced appearance a the Paramount Theater in less than two weeks as he joined the crowd for a showing of rare E Street Band footage on April 27 during the Asbury Park Music & Film Festival. Springsteen joined director and archivist Thom Zimny for a Q&A moderator by Backstreets Magazine editor Chris Phillips. The New Jersey stops came shortly after Springsteen announced that hes releasing a new album, Western Stars in June. The first single, Hello Sunshine, came out in April. Chris Sheldon may be reached at csheldon@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @chrisrsheldon Find NJ.com on Facebook. Have a tip? Tell us. nj.com/tips Get the latest updates right in your inbox. Subscribe to NJ.coms newsletters. Hours after being reported missing, a 76-year-old New Jersey man was found dead Wednesday night in a lagoon near his Bayville home, authorities said The man, who had pre-existing medical conditions, was pulled from the water at about 9 p.m., several houses down from his Sandlewood Drive residence, Berkley police said Thursday. Police havent released his identity pending notification of family members. Police, firefighters and other emergency workers immediately began looking for the man after he was reported missing at about 5 p.m. His vehicles were still parked at the house, police said. The mans death is not considered suspicious, though the investigation is ongoing. Homes along Sandlewood Drive in the Bayville section of Berkeley are sandwiched between artificial lagoons that feed into nearby Barnegat Bay. Anyone with information is asked to contact Det. William Somers at 732-341-132 x 2111. Jeff Goldman may be reached at jeff_goldman@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @JeffSGoldman. Have a tip? Tell us. nj.com/tips Get the latest updates right in your inbox. Subscribe to NJ.coms newsletters By Rachel A. Kleinman I am writing to express my horror over the bigotry that is threatening the integrity of my hometown. The Highland Park Public Library is embroiled in a controversy over a childrens book author who was scheduled to appear there this month. The library removed the appearance from its calendar after a vocal group expressed its disapproval, calling the author and her book anti-Semitic and anti-Israel. P Is For Palestine is an illustrated alphabet book designed to teach kids about Palestinian culture. It gives literary representation to an underrepresented group of Americans and refrains entirely from political discourse. Still, the books author, Dr. Golbarg Bashi, a former Rutgers professor of Middle Eastern Studies, has been involved in controversy before. Some Jewish parents in New York raised a similar ruckus shortly after the books release in 2017 when Bashi was set to read excerpts at a local bookstore. They took particular issue with the page I is for Intifada. Intifada, they say, is a concept promoting violence against Israelis. But a Facebook user even argues, it is impossible to be a Palestinian Arab and not anti-Semitic. But Intifada is historical fact and such sweeping generalizations are both false and dangerous. Also noteworthy is that the illustration on the books cover shows a child waving a peace sign. I became aware of this latest controversy when I saw a post on the librarys Facebook page, saying the matter has been referred to the Highland Park Public Library Board of Trustees. I promptly ordered a copy of the book and indicated as much in a reply to the librarys post. Since then, I have been called a self-hating Jew and told I support a terrorist agenda. I am a 39-year-old Jewish woman who grew up on Lawrence Avenue in Highland Park. I have a law degree and a bachelor of arts in Jewish Studies from Vassar College. And I cannot stay silent in the face of such blatant racism. Highland Park is a place that I love and the library is its heart. The community is full of professors and intellectuals who value education and diversity. It is a town where Jewish kids wearing religious garb feel safe from both crime and bigotry even after dark. When Highland Park begins censoring authors and books based on nationality, religion or race, its soul dies. I urge everyone to buy a copy of Bashis book, to read it and consider the plight of all American minorities. I trust the librarys board will arrive at the only just decision, rescheduling the authors appearance and promoting it with every available resource so that even the books staunchest opponents may learn something new. Rachel A. Kleinman is a news editor at Verizon Media who grew up in Highland Park. She currently lives in Brooklyn, N.Y. Bookmark NJ.com/Opinion. Follow us on Twitter @NJ_Opinion and on Facebook at NJ.com Opinion. Get the latest news updates right in your inbox. Subscribe to NJ.coms newsletters. By Brigid Callahan Harrison Theres another round of dog pile on the rabbit occurring in New Jersey: in this case its politicians and the media bashing the how the Economic Development Authority has been doling out tax credits to businesses connected with South Jersey political leader George Norcross the rabbit, it would seem, at the bottom of this particular pile of dogs. Ive sat and watched this with incredulity because it appears that everyone so scandalized by the Economic Development Authoritys actions seems a bit clueless about the law itself, and what its intentions were. A primer: What was the intended purpose of the Economic Opportunity Act? The bill was designed as a mechanism to help bring economic development to South Jersey, specifically creating set asides for the eight southern counties, especially Camden. Why? As Matt Friedman (then with The bill wasas a mechanism to help bring economic development to South Jersey, specifically creating set asides for the eight southern counties, especially Camden. Why? As Matt Friedman (then with NJ.com , now with Politico) reported in 2013, Senate President Steve Sweeney noted that in the last incentive bill almost 97 cents out of every dollar went to Jersey City and Newark. If something isnt done, South Jersey wont see any of it." At that point $211 million had gone to Prudential for their headquarters in Newark. Honeywell received $40 million to move five miles from Morris Township to Morris Plains, and on and on. But the geographical inequities in state funding werent limited to the Economic Development Authority: millions of dollars of Casino Reinvestment Development Authority money had gone to North Jersey pet projects. CRDA money was taken from needy Atlantic City and used to help build a museum to Yogi Berra (who I love, but thats beside the point) on my campus (which I also love, but is also beside the point) in one of the most affluent communities in the state (which is the point). The EOA was designed to address some of these historic inequities. Who supported it? In short, almost everyone. Okay, not everyone. A total of seven In short, almostOkay, not everyone. A total of seven legislators in both houses opposed the measure, with the lone Republican opponent in the Senate citing his support of the free market system rather than government subsidies as his motivation for opposition. The point is that sometimes, in politics, deals are made. Through logrolling, one legislator supports a bill that doesnt matter to her in order to gain support of a measure that will benefit her constituents. Its not pretty, but its how politics is done. And the overwhelming majority of the state legislature supported the set asides for South Jersey. Why Camden? When this legislation was drafted, Camden was the poorest city in the nation. Its unemployment rate was approaching 40 percent, nearly half of its families lived below the poverty line, and the average income was about $26,000 (compared to a statewide average of over $70,000 at the time). And unlike most of the state, the damage to Camdens economy hadnt been caused by the Great Recession. Rather, Camden had witnessed decades of abandonment by industry and outmigration by residents. So whats the deal with the George Norcross connections? Hes the most powerful unelected man in the state, and by all accounts, the Camden native envisioned Camdens transformation. Should it be surprising that companies that want to do business in Camden are connected to him, or, heaven forbid, he convinced companies to locate in Camden? Is there something illegal about that? At the height of his power, could you imagine development in Newarks North Ward in which the principals didnt go kiss Steve Abudato, Sr.s ring? Or major development in Union City where Brian Stack wasnt tangentially involved? If a company is looking to secure tax incentives, wouldnt it be reasonable that they contract with a law firm that specializes in securing these incentives? In watching the recriminations of companies connected to Norcross, I couldnt help but ask, so what? Should business leaders with connections to Norcross be precluded from receiving the tax incentives? Is there something illegal about having a connection to the man? Are these people who are so incensed new to politics? To New Jersey? Do they not understand how spheres of influence work? Have you been to Camden lately? Since the EDAs investment, the poverty rate is down 5 percent, the unemployment rate is down 8 percent, the high school graduation rate is up 20 percent, and the crime rate is down nearly 60 percent. There have been improvements in public safety and green spaces to encourage Subaru, Holtec International and the Philadelphia 76ers employees to stay in town; the Eds and Meds anchor institutions -- Rutgers University and Cooper University Hospital -- have expanded their downtown footprints; market-rate housing is being built for Millennials who are increasingly seeing Camden as desirable. A hotel is opening. I am not claiming that all of these indicators are a direct result of the EDA investment exclusively, but clearly the investment has been part of a watershed, systemic transformation of the City of Camden, what the Wall Street Journal characterized as Since the EDAs investment, the poverty rate is down 5 percent, the unemployment rate is down 8 percent, the high school graduation rate is up 20 percent, and the crime rate is down nearly 60 percent. There have been improvements in public safety and green spaces to encourage Subaru, Holtec International and the Philadelphia 76ers employees to stay in town; the Eds and Meds anchor institutions -- Rutgers University and Cooper University Hospital -- have expanded their downtown footprints; market-rate housing is being built for Millennials who are increasingly seeing Camden asA hotel is opening. I am not claiming that all of these indicators are a direct result of the EDA investment exclusively, but clearly the investment has been part of a watershed, systemic transformation of the City of Camden, what thecharacterized as a development boom. And isnt that exactly what the purpose of the Economic Opportunity Act was? Brigid Callahan Harrison is professor of political science and law at Montclair State University, where she teaches courses in American government. A frequent commentator on state and national politics, she is the author of five books on American politics. Like her on Facebook at Brigid Callahan Harrison. Follow her on Twitter @BriCalHar. Bookmark NJ.com/Opinion. Follow us on Twitter @NJ_Opinion and on Facebook at NJ.com Opinion. Get the latest news updates right in your inbox. Subscribe to NJ.coms newsletters. Next to the kind of service disruptions that NJ Transits rail riders have had to endure lately, passenger pushback about some overnight service reductions on the separately run PATCO Hi-Speed Line is a tempest on a train track. PATCO officials just announced that the frequency of service between midnight and 4:30 a.m. on the LindenwoldPhiladelphia line would be cut from every 45 minutes to once an hour. Also, trains during most of that early-morning window (1 a.m. to 4:30 a.m.) would no longer stop at half of the lines South Jersey and Center City Philadelphia stations. At least PATCO, a unit of the Delaware River Port Authority, thinks enough of its night-owl customers that it wont impose the restrictions as harshly overnight on Friday and Saturday, when Philly becomes as much of a party town as it can ever claim to be. Trains will run every 45 minutes, and stop at all 12 stations, until 2 a.m. Customers of NJTs Atlantic City Rail Line, whose suspended-for-months service starts again Sunday, can only dream of such convenience. Under its new schedule, the last train back to Philadelphia leaves Atlantic City at a celebration-dampening 10:44 p.m., seven nights a week. On Wednesday, responding to rider complaints, PATCO relented on how soon it will institute its changes, originally slated to start May 13. Passengers griped that this was being sprung on them with too little notice. They were right, and its to PATCOs credit that the new schedule now will take effect June 1. Late-night PATCO riders should hear out the transit operator on its reasons for the cuts. Mainly, its security and safety. PATCO says that in exchange for the bypassed stations and the lengthened intervals, it can provide a transit officer to ride every overnight train, and more effectively patrol those stations that will remain open 24 hours. It could be an acceptable tradeoff. PATCO was criticized for inadequate nighttime security and outdated closed-circuit TV systems, which are believed to have played a role in the brutal 2001 murder of Christine Lynn Eberle of Washington Township, after she stepped off a train at the lines Ferry Avenue Station in Camden. Eberle, 27, was abducted, beaten and stabbed before she was killed, prosecutors said. Marcus Toliver and Ryshaone Thomas of Camden later pleaded guilty in the case. The incident sparked almost a decade of civil litigation, which revealed weaknesses not only in PATCOs security, but in Camden Citys emergency dispatching system, as well. PATCOs security cameras have since been upgraded, but theres nothing like having enough officers around to respond quickly, 24/7. If some schedule revisions are necessary to accomplish that goal, regular riders should be willing to alter their own routines a little. In its Wednesday statement reflecting the June 1 launch date, PATCO states that it will also use the time to analyze feedback from riders. Lets hope these are not empty words. For example, does it make sense to close all three close-together stations on the Jersey side (Haddonfield, Westmont, Collingswood) overnight? Why not keep Westmont, the one located in the middle, open? In Philadelphia, PATCO may need to be more mindful of 'round-the-clock schedules of the health care sector, a major employer. What impact would the overnight closure of 9th-10th & Locust and the 12th-13th Locust stations have on employees and students at the main Jefferson University Hospital nearby? Sending a nurse who just ended her shift on a long, dark walk to a more distant Philadelphia station would seem to be counterproductive to security efforts. Complete and total EXONERATION took another pie to the face this week. This particular projectile was launched by more than 700 former federal prosecutors and Department of Justice officials who signed an open letter that was more blunt than Robert Mueller allowed himself to be: If Donald Trump werent president, the signatories agreed, he would be charged with obstruction of justice and frog-walked into a grand jury room. Trump acolytes want all matters pertaining to Russian interference in our 2016 election to go away Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell now calls the case closed, which not only fails the smell test, it fails the risibility test so they will continue to ignore that Mueller left an outline for obstruction charges that was so meticulous its impossible for professional prosecutors to resist. Hence, the letter. It probably wont move the needle as long as Trump uses the DOJ and the Senate as chew toys, but it helps to review why an army of constitutional experts who have dedicated their lives to the rule of law now believe that it is under assault. The Special Counsel, of course, could not indict Trump because of a provision that was laid out by Trumps own Justice Department. But the 735 lawmen were plain: William Barrs assertion that the evidence of obstruction uncovered by Mueller was not sufficient to establish the presidents guilt is proof that the Attorney General should either look at the underlying evidence which Barr acknowledged he did not do or discontinue his sinus medication. Each of us believes that the conduct of President Trump described (by Mueller) would, in the case of any other person not covered by the Office of Legal Counsel policy against indicting a sitting President, result in multiple felony charges for obstruction of justice, they wrote. To meet the legal definition of obstruction, an act must meet three criteria. There has to be substantial evidence of interference, a connection between the obstructive act and an ongoing investigation, plus sufficient evidence of corrupt intent. Mueller spelled out 10 credible incidents of felonious obstruction, and four of those acts specifically met all three criteria. He found the most indictable cases in Trumps effort to fire Mueller himself; in the efforts to impede the investigation; in the order Trump gave White House Counsel Don McGahn to deny his attempts to fire Mueller; and in the presidents attempts to dissuade Paul Manafort from providing information to the Special Counsel. Or, as the 735 signatories might call it: Strike 1, Strike 2, Strike 3, and Strike 4. We emphasize that these are not matters of close professional judgment, they wrote. (To) look at these facts and say that a prosecutor could not probably sustain a conviction for obstruction of justice the standard set out in Principles of Federal Prosecution runs counter to logic and our experience. Newark attorney Elie Honig, the former federal prosecutor who ran Chris Christies Division of Criminal Justice for five years, put it this way: To watch the President of the United States commit not just an isolated act of obstruction, but rather a prolonged, corrupt campaign to derail an investigation that threatened him, is too much to bear silently, he wrote on CNN.com. The list of signatories is impressive. More than 500 of them served presidents from both parties. More than 100 served as far back as the Nixon Administration. Half served for at least a decade. They believe Mueller established three immutable facts: A hostile government attacked our election, the Trump Campaign welcomed that help without conspiring, and as our government tried to investigate, Trump tried to derail 10 different ways. Thats a crime. But we really didnt need 735 legal experts to point it out. It only takes a read of the Mueller Report. Members of Trumps party should probably try it sometime. The release by a judge earlier this year of investigative files in connection with rape allegations that roiled Gov. Phil Murphys administration for months was a mistake, said the states attorney general, who said making such information public could have a chilling impact on victims stepping forward. Those records were part of two separate criminal investigations into allegations by Katie Brennan, the chief of staff at the New Jersey Housing and Mortgage Finance Agency, who alleged last year that she was raped by Albert J. Alvarez, a former administration official, after a gathering of campaign workers at a Jersey City bar in April 2017. I am a firm believer that this whole process needs to be confidential, Attorney General Gurbir Grewal said. We owe it to victims that they can feel confident coming to law enforcement reporting the details of these horrific incidents and crimes. And they should have the confidence that their statements will not be made public. The attorney general made his comments during an editorial board meeting with The Star-Ledger. No criminal charges were ever brought against Alvarez, but his attorneys successfully argued for the release of the files of the Hudson County and Middlesex County prosecutors offices that each investigated Brennans allegations, and declined to press charges. After Superior Court Judge Alberto Rivas signed an order in March to show cause to release the files, they were immediately turned over to Alvarezs lawyer. Brennans attorney, learning belatedly of their release, later protested the decision to release the files without a hearing or a protective order. While the release of the records was within the judges discretion, Grewal said he would have handled the matter differently. For these processes to work, theres got to be confidential processes, said the attorney general, adding that it was not fair to victims or to those that want to come forward. There could have been protective orders or confidentiality agreements to keep the files limited to those involved in the civil litigation. We do it with trade secret cases. Why cant we do it with cases involving such sensitive topics? However, attorney Nancy Erika Smith, who represented Gretchen Carlson and Julie Roginsky in their sexual harassment cases against Roger Ailes and Fox News, maintained that secrecy has never helped victims of sexual assault. Where has the criminal justice system failed victims of sexual abuse? Religious institutions, schools, the scouts, sports, foster homes, hospitals, doctors offices, work places, homes everywhere. And secrecy allowed it, Smith declared. When a victim goes to prosecutors, Smith added that they expect justice in a public courtroom. Secrecy helps them to continue to fail those people, she said. Brennans attorney, Kathryn McClure of Holmdel, was also not in favor of total confidentiality. I think that prosecutors files should be available to both the victim and the accused, but I believe we need to revise the system such that prosecutors files cannot be released to the accused without notice to the victim, she said. But I would not be in favor of blanket confidentiality. (Sharon Lauchaire, a spokeswoman for the attorney general, added in a statement after this story was first posted: To be clear, the attorney general believes that evidence and statements collected in criminal investigations should remain confidential, but also recognizes that victims have the right to share their stories and to blow the whistle on improper conduct.) An attorney for Alvarez did not return calls for comment. State Attorney General Gurbir S. Grewal.Jeff Granit | For NJ Advance Med The prosecutors files in the case, which were later provided by Alvarezs attorney to a number of media organizations, including NJ Advance Media, included hundreds of pages of investigative reports and videos of interviews with Brennan and Alvarez, as well as of witnesses who were with the two at the bar before the alleged assault. Brennan created a firestorm and sparked the formation of a legislative oversight committee to investigate her allegations after she went to the Wall Street Journal to report she had been assaulted by Alvarez, and claimed she had spent more than a year trying to get authorities, and then the administration, to take action against him. In a day of dramatic testimony in Trenton before the oversight committee, Brennan in December said: I had access to the highest positions of power, and at each turn my pleas went unanswered. Somehow it wasnt a priority to address my sexual assault until it impacted them. Alvarez, a lawyer himself, had served in the Murphy campaign as outreach director for Muslim and Latino communities. He was later hired to a $140,000-a-year state position as chief of staff of the New Jersey Schools Development Authority after the governors election, but was fired after Brennans charges became public. In an interview with NJ Advance Media, Alvarez said the legislative committee had come to the conclusion that he was guilty without hearing his testimony or seeing the reports of the prosecutors who investigated the case. It became obvious to me that this was becoming a political witch hunt and that I was being used as some sort of proxy to damage the governors administration, he said. Alvarez said he sought the investigative files because there are a lot of misconceptions and falsehoods being made. And the release of those files, he added, showed no corroboration and no credible evidence to support Brennans claims. Brennan is now suing the state, the Murphy campaign and Alvarez. The lawsuit accuses administration officials of bungling their response to Brennans rape allegation by violating her confidentiality, failing to inform her of her rights and failing to investigate her claims. New Jersey, in a recent filing, wants parts of that lawsuit to be heard directly by the Appellate Division, which the state said had exclusive jurisdiction over final decisions or actions of administrative agencies. Alvarez said he also intended to file a robust pleading where I will further pursue justice in this case for myself. He has yet to do so. Ted Sherman may be reached at tsherman@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @TedShermanSL. Facebook: @TedSherman.reporter. 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 LATEST: Its an ugly fight between the governor and a political powerbroker. Now that battle is spilling out into the Legislature. Never compare an Irishman to the King of England. That was Gov. Phil Murphys relatively muted response Thursday, a day after a powerful South Jersey political power broker called him a liar" and politically incompetent," while also comparing he and his wife, First Lady Tammy Murphy, to the British monarchy. He thinks hes the King of England and Mrs. thinks shes the Queen of England, and they dont have to answer to anybody, George Norcross III told NJ Advance Media on Wednesday. When specifically asked about the comments Thursday at an unrelated news conference in Trenton, Murphy joked about it. My biggest issue is: Its very hard for an Irishman to be referred to as the King of England," the governor said. Im still coming to grips with that. Murphy and Norcross are arguably the two most powerful Democrats in the state. Norcross is aligned with a number of state lawmakers from South Jersey, including state Senate President Stephen Sweeney. But the two men are at odds. And the tension has escalated dramatically in recent weeks after Murphy convened a task force to examine whether money dolled out under the states corporate tax incentive program during Gov. Chris Christies was misused by companies. Among the businesses the panel is investigating are those with ties to Norcross, who has faced allegations that his company and other entities illegally benefitted from tax breaks meant to help revive his hometown of Camden. Recent reports by WNYC and ProPublica and The New York Times put a spotlight on how EDA incentives helped Norcross projects in Camden and other clients of Parker McKay, the New Jersey-based law firm run by Norcross brother Philip Norcross. WNYC and ProPublica reported that of the $1.6 billion in tax breaks for companies that agreed to make a capital investment in Camden, at least $1.1 billion went to businesses or charities connected to Norcross or people in his orbit. Norcross has vehemently defended the incentives, telling NJ Advance Media on Wednesday that we busted our asses to do everything we could to get companies to come to Americans most dangerous city and its poorest city. He also accused Murphy of targeting him because of a feud between Murphy and South Jersey Democrats. Plus, Norcross suggested that Murphy could face a Democratic primary challenge when hes up for re-election in 2021. Ive never seen a governor of either party who is so despised by individuals in their own party," Norcross said. Murphy on Thursday largely brushed off the remarks, though he once again defended the tax incentive probe, saying its his duty to account where taxpayers money went. This is actually straight forward doing my job," the governor said. And I think not doing it is abrogating my responsibility. I view it very clearly black and white. No politics. Nobodys getting attacked here. When were said and done, whenever that is, we will have done more for Camden and communities like Camden than any other administration in the history of this state," Murphy added. "And it will work for everybody not just for some. Murphy also defended his wife, who has sometimes been described as a co-governor." Tammy Murphy has her own office near her husbands in Trenton and helps make policy decisions. Nobody works harder for this state," the governor said. "Particularly in the signature issues she has helped spearhead. She doesnt get a dime for doing it, bless her heart. State Sen. Richard Codey, a Murphy ally who was once governor himself and is a frequent Norcross critic, said the comments about the first lady were wrong. He went way over the line," Codey, D-Essex, said of Norcross. "You dont go after families. You just dont do that. The battle between Murphy and Norcross is threatening to upend the inner workings of state government in Trenton at a critical time weeks before the state budget must be enacted and as leaders are struggling to gather enough votes in the state Legislature to legalize marijuana, a key Murphy initiative. Murphy was scheduled to meet Thursday with both Sweeney, the state Senate president, and state Assembly Speaker Craig Coughlin, D-Middlesex, to discuss a number of issues, including the budget and pot. But Sweeney, D-Gloucester, pulled out at the last minute. I had (another) meeting, he told NJ Advance Media. It was an important meeting. It was a good meeting. Sweeney on Thursday also announced hes forming a special legislative committee, with subpoena power, to examine economic growth programs in New Jersey, including the EDAs tax incentives. Its important to get the full picture out on this, Sweeney told NJ Advance Media. Well use whatever tools well have available on this," he added. "What was right? What was wrong? How do we fix it? Well go from there. NJ Advance Media staff writer Matt Arco contributed to this report. Brent Johnson may be reached at bjohnson@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @johnsb01. Ted Sherman may be reached at tsherman@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @TedShermanSL. Facebook: @TedSherman. Have a tip? Tell us. nj.com/tips Get the latest updates right in your inbox. Subscribe to NJ.coms newsletters. The other leader of the state Legislature has now rejected Gov. Phil Murphys proposal to pour another $250 million into property tax relief for New Jersey residents next year if lawmakers agree to his plan to raise taxes on millionaires. That means Murphy and his fellow Democrats who lead the Legislature could be headed for another tense state budget battle in the coming weeks and raises the possibility once again of a state government shutdown. State Assembly Speaker Craig Coughlin, D-Middlesex, said in a statement obtained by NJ Advance Media on Wednesday night that I do not share the governors view that middle-class property tax relief must be tied to another income tax hike, especially if there is, indeed, unanticipated revenue due to higher than expected tax receipts." We should return that money to middle-class property taxpayers with no strings attached, said Coughlin, the second-highest-ranking state lawmaker in New Jersey. "I am hopeful that the governor will agree to this course of action and that we can work together on behalf of New Jerseys working middle-class families, the speaker added. Coughlins comments come a few days after the highest-ranking state lawmaker, state Senate President Stephen Sweeney, D-Gloucester, dismissed Murphys proposal as a gimmick" and said he remained against a millionaires tax. Murphy is seeking to raise the gross tax rate to 10.75 percent on income of $1 million and above, which he expects to generate $447 million for the taxpayer-funded state budget set to begin July 1. He says he needs the money to provide more funding for education, transit, and public-worker pensions. On Monday, the governor announced that an unexpected surge in tax collections will give him an extra $250 million to work with. He said hed put that money into a pair of property tax relief programs to help the middle class if lawmakers approve the millionaires tax. Murphy says he can make that move only if the millionaires tax and its $447 million in revenue is in place. Otherwise, hed have to put the extra $250 million in tax collections elsewhere to balance the budget. Thus, Coughlins request to give that money automatically back to taxpayers with no strings attached wouldnt work under Murphys plan. Or, without the millionaires tax, leaders would have make cuts or find other revenue. Sweeney and other Democratic lawmakers supported a millionaires tax five times under Murphys Republican predecessor, Chris Christie, who killed it each time. Sweeney said his opinion changed on the hike after the Republican federal tax overhaul took away a key property tax deduction that was popular in high-tax New Jersey. Now, he and Coughlin oppose the millionaires tax, saying New Jerseyans are already overtaxed. But Murphy had been hoping the property tax proposal would force lawmakers hands especially with all 80 seats in the Assembly are up for grabs in Novembers elections. "I dont think its a gimmick to ask 19,000 people who can afford to pay it to fund property tax relief for millions in the middle class, Murphy said Wednesday. Thats good policy. The Democratic-controlled Legislature has to pass a budget and Murphy has to sign it by July 1, according to the state Constitution. If not, Murphy could shut down the state government until they cut a deal. A similar fight unfolded last year, when Murphy sought a millionaires tax against the wishes of Sweeney and Coughlin. That pushed the state to the brink of a shutdown. But they reached an agreement at the last minute, raising income taxes on those who make $5 million or more, as well increasing the states corporate business tax. NJ Advance Media staff writers Matt Arco and Samantha Marcus contributed to this report. Brent Johnson may be reached at bjohnson@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @johnsb01. Have a tip? Tell us. nj.com/tips Get the latest updates right in your inbox. Subscribe to NJ.coms newsletters. The state attorney general has an ongoing criminal investigation. The governor commissioned a special task force. And now, legislative leaders are launching a new series of hearings into the New Jersey Economic Development Authority, as the troubled state agency becomes a proxy for a growing political battle between Gov. Phil Murphy and South Jersey power broker George Norcross. A day after Norcross launched a personal attack on the governor over the ongoing task force investigation ordered by the governor, the leaders of the state Senate and Assembly announced Thursday they will hold their own hearings into the EDA. The task force investigation has publicly targeted the Camden County Democrat in connection with tens of millions of dollars in tax incentives that were awarded to his companies and other entities connected to him. Its important to make sure we get all aspects of whats taken place and if theres information we need. Its important to get the full picture out on this, state Senate President Stephen Sweenev, D-Gloucester, a Norcross ally, told NJ Advance Media. Well use whatever tools well have available on this. What was right? What was wrong? How do we fix it? Well go from there. Sweeney announced the planned formation of a Special Committee for Economic Growth, which he said will identify the best strategies, policies and practices to create jobs, attract investments to financially troubled communities and generate long-term economic opportunities throughout the state. The announcement made no reference to the political fight between Norcross or the governor, who has been an outspoken critic of the EDA and has sought to replace the leadership of the authority. There are valuable lessons to be learned from the success of economic growth initiatives that have helped turn around once-struggling cities in different regions of New Jersey, Sweeney said in a statement. We need to do a constructive analysis of what has worked so that the gains are not lost in those communities and to develop an effective strategy to help other cities and towns. We should not allow misguided criticisms of existing programs to cripple the states ability to foster future economic growth. His proposal was scant on details, but in his statement, Sweeney said he wants the committee to gain input from city officials, businesses, local residents and state officials responsible for economic expansion policies in order to learn from the experience and expertise of those with firsthand knowledge. He did not identify the senators who will sit on the committee, but said its work will include a true accounting of the costs and the return on investments, including total capital investments by those participating in the programs. At the same time, Assembly Speaker Craig Coughlin, D-Middlesex who is often allied with Sweeney said the Assembly Commerce and Economic Development Committee will conduct separate hearings to examine the EDAs tax incentive programs. It is obvious that the legislature needs clarity in terms of how the New Jersey Economic Development Authority is doing business, Coughlin said in a statement. The current tax credit programs are set to expire next month and we need to determine what is working best. He did not set any times or dates for the hearings, which he said will fairly examine the tax incentive programs administered by the EDA, study the efficacy and viability of the programs and ensure we are maximizing the return on our investments. Questioned during an unrelated bill signing Thursday, Coughlin declined to muse on Norcross remarks about Murphy. Im not going to comment on that, the speaker said. In an interview with NJ Advance Media on Wednesday, Norcross lashed out at the governor, who he accused of setting up a McCarthy-like commission to investigate the EDA and the incentives that were meant to help revitalize Camden. Whats the end game for this guy? Norcros asked. Well, Im telling you: He thinks hes the King of England and Mrs. thinks shes the Queen of England, and they dont have to answer to anybody. And theyve gone out there recklessly, stupidly and incompetently time and time again. Norcrosss reference to the governors wife was a jab at First Lady Tammy Murphy. The governors EDA Task Force was formed by Murphy earlier this year came after a critical audit by the state comptroller in January found fault with the states management of a program that has given out tax credit incentives worth $11 billion since its inception. The comptroller concluded that the state agency, which is responsible for spearheading New Jerseys economic development efforts, may have improperly awarded, miscalculated, overstate and overpaid tax credits to a number of companies that it could not verify had created the jobs that were promised. New Jersey Attorney General Gurbir S. Grewal said his office is conducting a separate criminal investigation into the EDA tax incentive programs. In an interview earlier this week with a Star-Ledger editorial board, Grewal said while his office typically does not comment on investigations, their interest was sparked by the state comptrollers office report into the EDA. Were going to use whatever civil tools and criminal tools we have to hold people accountable, Grewal said. The major incentive programs the Grow New Jersey Assistance Program and the Economic Redevelopment and Growth Grant Program are set to expire in July unless renewed by the Legislature. NJ Advance Media staff writer Matt Arco contributed to this report. Brent Johnson may be reached at bjohnson@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @johnsb01. Ted Sherman may be reached at tsherman@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @TedShermanSL. Facebook: @TedSherman. Have a tip? Tell us. nj.com/tips Get the latest updates right in your inbox. Subscribe to NJ.coms newsletters. The all-out war South Jersey power broker George Norcross III declared against Gov. Phil Murphy this week wont just be a battle of words between the two Democrats. It will be a political firefight. Norcross, whos at the center of criticism over how his company and other entities tied to him allegedly benefitted from lucrative tax incentives, all but said Murphy can expect to face a Democratic primary challenge when he is up for re-election in 2021. Whether it materializes or not, I have no idea, Norcross said in a wide-ranging phone interview Wednesday with NJ Advance Media in which he accused the governor of being a liar whos politically incompetent. But Norcross insisted theres plenty of support among members of Murphys own party to mount a challenge against him. I dont think George Norcross is gonna have to offer any kind of advocacy for an opposition to the governor because from conversations that Ive had from political leaders and legislative leaders, and other county governmental leaders, this governor has very little political support, Norcross said. He added: "Ive never seen a governor of either party who is so despised by individuals in their own party." The governors office declined to comment on Norcross suggestion of a primary challenge. His attacks against Murphy came in response to the governors special task force that was set up to investigate the New Jersey Economic Development Authority in connection with the states tax incentives program during former Gov. Chris Christies tenure. At the heart of the claims that prompted Norcross to speak out publicly are disclosures that were made at a EDA task force hearing last week that focused almost exclusively on how tens of millions of dollars in tax incentives had been awarded to companies and a non-profit associated with Norcross in Camden, where is chairman of Conner Strong & Buckelew, an insurance brokerage, and chairman of Cooper Health System. The hearing came on the heels of reports by WNYC and ProPublica, and The New York Times, which put a spotlight on how EDA incentives helped Norcross projects in Camden and other clients of Parker McKay, the New Jersey-based law firm run by Norcross brother Philip Norcross. WNYC and ProPublica reported that of the $1.6 billion in tax breaks for companies that agreed to make a capital investment in Camden, at least $1.1 billion went to businesses or charities connected to Norcross or people in his orbit. Norcross derided the governors task force investigating New Jerseys tax incentive programs as a McCarthy-like commission seeking only to smear people. So what of that possible primary challenge to Murphy, would Norcross support his powerful ally, state Senate President Stephen Sweeney, D-Gloucester who toyed with a gubernatorial run in 2018 if he goes after Murphy in the next election? I support whatever Steve Sweeneys decisions as to what he wants to do with his political career whatever that might be, Norcross said. And if Sweeney, D-Gloucester, doesnt run, would Norcross support somebody else? We have a big party in southern New Jersey, he responded. Obviously, from a party perspective, people are going to decide who is best suited to run the state. If a political war between Norcross and Murphy spirals out of control it would reach far beyond Trenton, where Sweeney has enough political power to derail major parts of Murphys agenda. Norcross, meanwhile, said hes not going anywhere, despite the hits hes been taking in the EDA fight. You take a licking and keep on ticking. Im going to be here for hopefully many years to come, he promised. Matt Arco may be reached at marco@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @MatthewArco or Facebook. Ted Sherman may be reached at tsherman@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @TedShermanSL. Facebook: @TedSherman.reporter. Have a tip? Tell us. nj.com/tips Get the latest updates right in your inbox. Subscribe to NJ.coms newsletters. WASHINGTON Seymour Josephson warned Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers when they met that the tears could flow at any minute. Youre getting this raw, the Robbinsville resident told the Republican congresswoman from Washington state during a meeting Wednesday in Rep. Chris Smiths office. By the time they finished, McMorris Rodgers had reached for a tissue and Josephson was wiping his eyes yet again. Just five weeks earlier, Josephsons 21-year-old daughter Samantha, a senior at the University of South Carolina, had left a bar and gotten into a car she thought was the Uber she requested. It was a fatal mistake. Police said the driver of the car, who they identified as Nathaniel David Rowland, kidnapped her and then stabbed her to death. I just cant imagine what youre going through, said McMorris Rodgers, who has three children of her own. Im going to cry too. Its the worst nightmare that a parent could ever go through, Josephson said. He paused. Thats why Im fighting so hard for this so nobody has to do this again, he said. The meeting with McMorris Rodgers was one of several throughout the day arranged by Smith to enable Josephson and his wife Marci to lobby for a bill named after their daughter, who was to graduate this month and then go to law school in the fall. Under what would be known as Samis Law, states would require all ride-sharing vehicles to have both front and rear license plates, even in states that now provide one in the back; and to equip those vehicles with a QR code or other identification so that a customer could hold a smartphone up to the passenger window and confirm that the car that pulled up was the one requested. States that dont put these regulations in place would lose some of their federal highway funding. Its the same stick used to get states to raise the drinking age to 21 more than three decades ago. Smith, R-4th Dist., is the lead sponsor in the House. U.S. Sen. Ben Cardin, D-Md., is sponsoring the bill in the Senate; the mother of Samanthas freshman-year roommate works for him in Washington. Requiring all cars to have front and rear plates drew support from Lyft spokeswoman Campbell Matthews, who also said the company was willing to work with lawmakers to develop common sense rules to keep our community safe," building on its existing processes. The best way for riders to identify their Lyft ride is to match the license plate number shown in the app with the license plate of the arriving vehicle, she said. The Josephsons met with numerous lawmakers and congressional aides, including House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., and House Republican Leader Kevin McCarthy of California, grabbing sandwiches in Smiths office between appointments. This has to be a full-court press but its coming from a set of parents who dont want it happening to another child, Smith said. Walking from Smiths office to the Capitol, the Josephsons and the congressman went to a room off the House chambers to sat down with Reps. Sam Graves of Missouri, the top Republican on the House Transportation Committee, and Joe Wilson, R-S.C., whose district includes the neighborhood where the kidnapping occurred. The couple made their pitches again. The only thing we can do is to try to turn this into a positive, Marci Josephson told Wilson. In this case, her pitch worked. Wilson said he would co-sponsor the legislation. Youre making such a difference, Wilson told Marci Josephson. What a tribute to her and your courage. Jonathan D. Salant may be reached at jsalant@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @JDSalant or on Facebook. 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. On May 11, the Ellis Island Honors Society will recognize the recipients of the 34th Ellis Island Medals of Honor. The annual medal is awarded to 100 Americans, both native-born and naturalized, whose accomplishments in their field and inspired service to our nation are worthy of commendation. The Ellis Island Medals of Honor recognize individuals who have made it their mission to share with those less fortunate their wealth of knowledge, indomitable courage, boundless compassion, unique talents and selfless generosity. They do so while acknowledging their debt to their ethnic heritage as they uphold the ideals and spirit of America. Among those to be honored will be Dr. Lawrence V. Najarian of Basking Ridge. Najarian, a physician, humanitarian and Armenian American said he accepts the medal on behalf of his grandparents, who came through Ellis Island in 1921. According to Najarian, Like other survivors of the Armenian Diaspora, they were forever grateful for the opportunity to flourish in a new country and were honored to become American citizens, a fact that is gratefully acknowledged by every succeeding generation. He added that the gift of citizenship has been repaid many fold. Najarian, who said his parents were high school graduates who worked hard to send him to college, is board-certified ophthalmologist and founder and medical director of the Bedminster Eye and Laser Center, where he has served the surrounding communities for 30 years. He is a graduate of John Hopkins University, the University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine and completed his training in ophthalmology at New York University Medical Center, Moorfield Eye Hospital in London and Emory University. For more than 30 years, Najarian has served on the voluntary faculty, teaching ophthalmology residents at New York University and New York Eye and Ear Infirmary. He also lectures for Columbia Universitys Continuing Medical Education Program. He is the recipient of The Arnold P. Gold Foundation Gold Award which recognizes healthcare professionals who provide compassionate, collaborative and scientifically excellent patient care. Najarians commitment to science education extends to local classrooms. In 2008, he devised a teaching program for seventh graders at the Gill St. Bernard School, where he continues to collaborate with the science department. A lifelong Boy Scout, Najarian was recently honored with a Good Scout Award. At age 13, he was elected to the Order of the Arrow and attained the rank of Eagle Scout. He served as assistant Scout Master, merit badge counselor, fundraiser, and is the father of Eagle Scout Greg Najarian. He has served since 2006 as president of the Armenian American Health Professional Organization, a multifaceted, volunteer led, nonprofit medical philanthropy. AAHPO provides health care services and education to underserved populations in the tri-state area and in Armenia, medical mentoring and workshops, emergency consultations and counseling. Najarian also served on the Board of the Armenian Eye Care Project, which recently honored him with a Silver Award for his service to patients. He currently serves on the executive board of the Armenian Medical International Committee. Through these organizations, he has led and participated in multiple medical missions to Armenia, helped to organize and chair international medical meetings, facilitated the donation of a $1 million microsurgical training laboratory in Yerevan at which several generations of eye surgeons have trained and supervised the training of physicians who provide much needed care to previously underserved, rural villages of Armenia. Najarian and fellow recipients will gather in Ellis Islands Great Hall, the original registry room which served as the gateway for 12 million immigrants to the U.S., for the annual Ellis Island Medals of Honor black-tie gala, where they will receive and celebrate their award in the light of the Statue of Liberty. Other recipients of the medal include recording artist Paula Abdul, executive director of the U.N. World Food Programme David Beasley, IBM CEO Ginni Rometty, former Google executive chairman Eric Schmidt, Coca-Cola Co. chairman Muhtar Kent, Mastercard president and CEO Ajay Banga, Marilyn Carlson Nelson of the Carlson Co., Grammy and Academy-award winning composer Tan Dun and composer of Ellis Island: The Dream of America, Peter Boyer. For the complete list of 2019 recipients, go to www.EIHonors.org. Nasser J. Kazeminy, chairman of EIHS, said, To be a success in America, you must be daring, bold and determined. Those qualities describe the immigrants who risk everything for the chance to come here to follow their dreams. America is the land of opportunity and no one should let that opportunity pass them by, said . Many of our Medalists have a special familial relationship with Ellis Island. Others arrived more recently, in more modern ways. But they all recognize the symbolism of this hallowed ground. It is the birthplace of the American Dream. Since the medal was founded in 1986, EIHS has honored distinguished and diverse Americans including seven presidents of the United States, Gen. Norman Schwarzkopf, Gen. Colin Powell, Gen. Frank Grass, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Dempsey, Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day OConnor and Secretaries of State Madeline Albright, Condoleezza Rice and Hillary Clinton. Notable Americans include Nobel Prize Laurates Elie Wiesel and Malala Yousafzai, Bob Hope, Muhammad Ali, Frank Sinatra, Rosa Parks, former Apple CEO John Sculley, former PepsiCo CEO Indra Nooyi, HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco, Sen. John McCain, Muhammad Ali and American icon Lee Iacocca. The U.S. Senate and House of Representatives have officially recognized the Ellis Island Medals of Honor, and each year the recipients are listed in the Congressional Record. The Ellis Island Honors Society was founded in 1986 at the behest of President Ronald Reagan with the goal of commemorating the significant role immigration and the immigrant spirit has played in the founding and growth of America. EIHS supports several national educational programs for young people of all ethnic backgrounds. In addition, EIHS organizes and supports programs that celebrate the contributions of immigrants and their progeny make to America. For more information, visit http://www.eihonors.org/. Things got wild in the front yard of a New Jersey home last week when two huge black bears swatted, bit and wrestled each other on their hind legs as the astonished residents watched the fierce fight. When I went out to look, I actually heard the bears jaws hitting together as they were fighting and growling at each other, said Corey Bale, who recorded the bear brawl outside his house in Frankford Township, Sussex County. Bale said he believes the tussle might have been over a female bear hiding behind his shed. He caught the bear fight in action after his neighbor told him a bear was behind his home near his sons play yard and he went outside to investigate. Once he stepped on his back deck, he heard the commotion out front, he said. Bale watched the bears do battle for about a minute with his father. The bears eventually ran off across the street. But Bale said he knew it was serious from the chunks of bear hair covered in blood he found left in the yard. He shared a video of the bear fight on Facebook, wheres its racked up 390,000 views and nearly 7,000 shares. As a native of Sussex County, Bale said hes used to seeing bears, but remains cautious, especially as mating season ramps up. As warm weather approaches, the state Department of Environmental Protection warns the public about interacting with bears. Sophie Nieto-Munoz may be reached at snietomunoz@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her at @snietomunoz. 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. RTHK: North Korea launches more rockets The South Korean military says North Korea has carried out a second missile test in five days, as the top US envoy for the region arrived in Seoul. It came after North Korea carried out a military drill and fired multiple projectiles on Saturday, with at least one believed to be a short-range missile. The North had not fired a missile since November 2017, when a rapid diplomatic thaw eased high tensions on the peninsula and paved the way for a historic first meeting between its leader Kim Jong Un and US President Donald Trump. But their second summit in Vietnam in February broke up without an agreement rolling back Pyongyang's nuclear programme in exchange for sanctions relief or even a joint statement, leaving the North frustrated by the stalemate. Thursday's launch came just hours after the US Special Representative on North Korea, Stephen Biegun, arrived in Seoulfor talks with South Korean officials on the allies' approach towards Pyongyang, in his first visit since the Hanoi summit. The North "fired what appeared to be two short-range missiles", Seoul's Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) said, adding they flew eastwards for 270 and 420 kilometres. It was a "deeply worrying" development, said a spokeswoman for the South's presidential office, "as it is not helping improvement of inter-Korean relations and efforts to ease military tensions". The JCS earlier said the launches appeared to originate from Sino-ri in North Pyongan province, 75 kilometres northwest of Pyongyang. One of the North's longest-running operational missile bases is in the area, which the Centre for Strategic & International Studies says houses a regiment-sized unit equipped with Nodong-1 medium-range ballistic missiles. Hong Min, a senior researcher at the state-run Korea Institute for National Unification, said Thursday's launch means "North Korea is sending a clear message that it will not be satisfied with humanitarian aid" being considered by Seoul. "It is saying, 'We want security guarantees in return for the denuclearisation process'," he added. (AFP) This story has been published on: 2019-05-09. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. Is NJ Transit getting enough money from Gov. Phil Murphys proposed state budget to help rebuild the agency to its past glory? Transit advocates and experts said its not and warned hundreds of millions of dollars in funding gaps could start in 2021. The warnings issued by advocates and experts at the statehouse on Thursday, are based on a peek that NJ Transit provided into its financial future with a four-year budget projection to Fiscal Year 2021. That document said the agency will need an additional $138 million to cover operating expenses that year. It gets worse. Projections for the four years following 2021 predict that hole growing to almost $400 million funding need by fiscal year 2024. Significant jump in expenses in FY 2021 is equally alarming, as even NJ Transits own documents recognize there could be a $138.2 million hole, said Janna Chernetz, Tri-State Transportation Campaign deputy director. "There is no greater cry for help. Yikes. To avoid this, NJ Transit needs a dedicated source of funding from the legislature for its operating budget and to end transferring money for major capital projects to fund operations, said representatives of New Jersey Future, Make the Road New Jersey the NJ Work Environment Council and the NJ Sierra Club. "We are at the tipping point if we dont start now, Chernetz said. "They need a plan to wean them off (transferring capital funds). It wont happen overnight, but we need need to chip away and FY 2020 budget isnt taking a meaning full step doing that, she said. Although Murphys fiscal year 2020 budget provides $100 million more on paper, that translates to $25 million in new cash, which advocates said isnt enough money to fund the cost of hiring more employees or to buy new trains and buses. The remaining $75 million replaces funding that came from the NJ Turnpike Authority in previous years. In also includes $460 million in transfers from capital to the operating budget. State Senator Loretta Weinberg asked that question In March, prompting a reply from Murphy that he was open to the idea, if it is done in a fiscally responsible way that doesnt cut into the state surplus. Heres whats facing NJ Transit and its riders. A four-year budget outlook projected the $138 million funding need for a proposed $2.4 billion FY 2021 budget. The funding hole is projected to get bigger in the four years following fiscal year 2021. A preliminary budget estimate for fiscal year 2022 has that funding need growing to $220 million, to $304 million in FY 2023 and to $392 million by FY 2024, according to budget documents. Where will the extra $138 million come from? NJ Transit fares will not be increased in the budget year that starts on July 1 ,2020 and goes to June 30, 2021, a promise Murphy made in his budget address. There are no projected fare increases in FY 19, FY 20 or FY 21. NJ Transit expects to break even in the current (2019) fiscal year with an estimated $1.2 million in net operating income, NJ Transit budget documents said. NJ Transit officials said in an earlier interview that its too soon to say how the funding need will be handled, especially given possible variances in state and federal funding. There are a number of scenarioswell look for efficiencies, said Kevin Corbett, NJ Transit executive director. The need comes from capital expenses, state of good repair (and), capital projects. The state missed an opportunity to dedicate a portion of the increased state gas tax for NJ Transit operations when the Transportation Trust Fund was renewed, said Doug OMalley, Director, Environment New Jersey. NJ Transits budget is a floor, not a ceiling. We need to work on a long term solution, he said. However it will up to the governor and the legislature to decide whether to allocate more funding in the fiscal year 2020 budget and to come up with long term funding solutions. We need the political will to make it happen, he said, adding the budget shouldnt be balanced on the backs of riders who pay some of the highest fares in the country. Operating costs include labor. NJ Transit has hired new employees to plug holes from workers. Between July 2018 and January 2019, NJ Transit hired 671 new employees, but lost 472 workers. Of those, 32% were people who retired. The agency had 442 vacancies as of January. The agency also starts negotiating new contracts this fall with bus unions that settled pacts in 2015 and rail unions that reached agreements in 2016. NJ Transit also has roughly 1,100 non-union workers who havent had a raise in 10 years. Driving some of the capital costs is a massive train and bus fleet replacement program and plans to buy new trains to replace some of the older single level cars that will be over 40 years old and have already been rebuilt once. Potential solutions include finding more revenue that doesnt come from fares, which advocates said are among the highest in the nation. That includes more advertising in stations, trains and buses, developing property NJ Transit owns and re-purposing space in train stations for commercial uses, Chernetz said. Larry Higgs may be reached at lhiggs@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @commutinglarry. 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 NEW YORK The tail end of Yankees manager Aaron Boones pre-game presser Wednesday included a glowing update on reliever Chad Green, who earned his early season demotion back to Triple-A by pitching to a 16.43 ERA over 10 outings. In his first two outings since being optioned on April 24, Green worked five shutout innings, allowed just two hits and struck out 11. Adjustments were being made in a controlled environment and they were working, Boone stated, and one more good outing Wednesday night possibly would lead to a quick return to the bigs. Right on cue, a bullpen spot opened for the Yankees late Wednesday night when newbie Jack Barrett was farmed out immediately he was torched for five runs pitching the final two innings of a 10-1 loss to the Seattle Mariners. By then though, Green seemingly blew his first shot at returning by allowing two runs over 2 1/3 innings starting for Scranton/Wilkes-Barre on Wednesday night against Indianapolis. Passing on Green, the Yanks opted to call up lefty starter Nestor Cortes Jr., who will go into a long relief role initially and perhaps make a start next week when injured left-hander James Paxtons misses a second and possibly last start due to left knee inflammation. Rookie right-hander Jonathan Loaisiga came up from Triple-A on Wednesday to start for Paxton and struggled badly in a four-run, four-inning outing. For Cortes, 24, this is his first call-up with the Yankees, but the 2013 36th round draft pick gained a little big-league experience early last season during his brief time with the Baltimore Orioles as a 2017 Rule 5 Draft acquisition. Born in Cuba and raised in suburban Miami, Cortes thought he blew his big-league opportunity in April of 18 when he was posted a 7.71 ERA over four outings with the Orioles and then promptly was returned to the Yankees as a non-roster farmhand. I thought it would never come again honestly, just because the way it went down last year, Cortes told the Scranton Times-Tribune. But I found my way back and Im so happy right now. I cant describe how Im feeling. Buy Yankees tickets: StubHub, SeatGeek, PrimeSport, Ticketmaster Cortes is just 1-2 with a 4.54 ERA in Triple-A this season in six outings, five as a starter, but his last outing was the best of his career. In a start at Syracuse on May 4, Cortes worked 7 1/3 no-hit innings and struck out nine before allowing a single, which led to a quick hook. Cortes also made a good impression this spring with the Yankees, as he pitched to a 3.18 ERA over seven Grapefruit League outings, two as a starter. Randy Miller may be reached at rmiller@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @RandyJMiller. Find NJ.com on Facebook. A 42-year-old man died Tuesday (May 7) after New Orleans police say he was stabbed the previous day while in a fight during a fishing trip in the Bywater area. The Orleans Parish Coroners office identified the man who died as Terrell Polk, saying Thursday that Polk died of sharp force injuries. The coroner and NOPD listed the location of the stabbing as the intersection of Poland and St. Claude avenues, but arrest documents for 41-year-old Alvin Glapion, accused of second-degree murder in Polks death. According to a preliminary report, Glapion and the man the coroner identified as Polk got into an argument while fishing atop the levee about 12:20 a.m. Monday near the 4400 block of Dauphine Street. A levee runs along the Industrial Canal at the end of that block of Dauphine, behind the abandoned Naval base. The arrest documents, sworn by NOPD Homicide Detective Thaddeus Williams, say the two men were arguing about Polks girlfriend and, during the argument, Polk threatened to throw Glapions phone into the water. After arguing for several minutes, Glapion returned to fishing, Williams writes in arrest documents. At that point, Polk punched Glapion in the face, knocking him out. When Glapion came to, Polk was on top of him, according to an affidavit for Glapions arrest warrant. A preliminary NOPD report indicated that Polk was also hitting Glapion as he returned to consciousness. Glapion then retrieved a fishing knife and stabbed (Polk) four times, the NOPD report states. Police were called to the stabbing shortly before 1 a.m. Monday, the report states. Polk was taken to University Medical Center with wounds to the back of his neck, his lower abdomen, his chest, underneath his left arm and to his left thumb. The chest wound went through his chest wall, and the wound to his thumb caused it to become detached from the hand, according to arrest documents for Glapion. 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 Glapion was booked about 10:45 p.m. that day. He was initially booked with attempted second-degree murder, but NOPD spokesman Aaron Looney said the charge was upgraded to murder following Polks death on Tuesday. According to arrest documents, Glapion told investigators at the scene that he had fought and stabbed Polk. Anyone with information about the homicide is asked to contact NOPD Homicide Detective Thaddeus Williams, the cases lead investigator, at 504-658-5300 or Crimestoppers at 504-822-1111. This post was updated Friday (May 10) with additional details from arrest documents for Alvin Glapion. Emily Lane covers criminal justice in New Orleans for NOLA.com | The Times-Picayune. Reach her at elane@nola.com. NOLA.com | The Times-Picayunes Laura McKnight contributed to this report. Chris Roberts, the boy wonder politician who was elected to office at age 21 and served two decades on the Jefferson Parish School Board and Parish Council before abruptly resigning last week, was indicted Thursday (May 9) on charges of tax evasion and wire fraud. The federal government is seeking a forfeiture of at least $53,624 as part of the criminal prosecution, but Roberts attorney, Eddie Castaing Jr., said none of the charges relates to public service. The indictment runs to 29 counts. Roberts, who did not immediately respond to requests for comment, is scheduled for arraignment May 22. The charges say Roberts under-reported his income to the Internal Revenue Service for every year from 2010 to 2016, amended them to show more income after learning of the federal investigation in 2017 but still withheld substantial income sources. Among the unreported income was money from business interests and casino gambling winnings, the indictment says. Chris Roberts, in first comment since surprise resignation, says its time to focus on self, family And beginning in 2014, while working as general manager of a Terrytown landscaping company, the indictment says, Roberts wrote company checks to himself and his other business entities, paid for personal goods and services with the companys debit card and lied about the spending to the company owner, for more than $41,000. Among the suspect purchases: a 2.01-carat diamond ring with a split shank and 84 additional diamonds surrounding the primary diamond that cost approximately $16,000, which Roberts used as an engagement ring for his second wife. In an interview with NOLA.com | The Times-Picayune on Nov. 2, 2017, Roberts said he has been general manager of Dans Landscaping in Terrytown for about 3 years, until the summer of that year. The owner had died, and his widow asked Roberts to run the business because she had no experience; Roberts said he had known the woman for more than 10 years. When he left, he said, the womans daughter took over management. 71 Louisiana politicians who were sentenced to prison or probation Roberts grew up in Terrytown and entered politics via a Gretna political machine that was centered on Police Chief B.H. Miller Jr. and Parish Councilman T.H. Butch Ward. When voters elected Roberts to an open seat on the School Board in 1998, he was part-owner of a car dealership and student at what is now the University of Holy Cross in Algiers. On the School Board, he developed a public reputation for frankness, accessibility and savviness. With Ward facing term limits in the Parish Councils 1st District seat in 2003, Roberts ran and won. Voters elevated him in 2011 to the parishwide Division A seat, where he was known for shrewd political maneuvering, condemning post-Katrina blight and championing the interests of West Bank municipalities, fishers and the seafood industry. Top stories in New Orleans in your inbox Twice daily we'll send you the day's biggest headlines. Sign up today. e-mail address * Sign Up In the past 20 years, Roberts also has held financial interests in a Mardi Gras season merchandise company, a Baskin-Robbins ice cream franchise, a Quiznos sandwich shop, fireworks and snowball stands, a photography business, consulting business and The West Bank Beacon, a monthly community newspaper. Throughout the federal investigation of his finances, Roberts said he was confident he would not be charged. The senior member of the council shocked colleagues when he submitted his resignation letter April 29, offering no explanation. Judge orders Jefferson Parish to garnish Councilman Chris Roberts' pay A cancer survivor, Roberts has been married twice and has four children. He has blamed much of his financial troubles on fallout from the 2015 divorce from his first wife, Katherine. Five creditors have sued him, four of them winning judgments declaring he owned them a total of $267,713. One of them obtained a court order to garnish his Parish Council salary, which amounts to $113,957 a year. Along the way, he also tangled with the IRS and the Louisiana Ethics Administration over loans, back taxes and delinquent campaign finance reports. If convicted of all charges, Roberts faces a maximum punishment of 475 years in prison, and a $6.2 million fine. Thats highly unlikely, however, as maximum penalties for first-time offenders are rare in federal court. The Parish Council is set next week to fill his Division A seat by appointment, pending this falls elections. . . . . . . . Drew Broach covers Jefferson Parish politics and education plus other odds and ends. Email: dbroach@nola.com. Facebook: Drew Broach TP. Twitter: drewbroach1. A woman fatally shot Wednesday night (May 8) in Mid-City after New Orleans police say she and her husband confronted a teen as he allegedly tried to burglarize their car has been identified as 63-year-old Zelda Townsend. The Orleans Parish Coroners Office said Thursday that Townsend died of gunshot wounds. A 17-year-old opened fire on the couple when the pair saw him inside their vehicle, police said. The teen was also injured by gunfire after Townsends husband returned fire, said NOPD Superintendent Shaun Ferguson. The teen, identified by a NOPD source with direct knowledge of the investigation as Emanuel Pipkins, had been released from the hospital as of Thursday morning and faces a charge of second-degree murder. Townsends husband was shot in the arm, NOPD said. Attempted car burglary turns deadly in Mid-City shootout: NOPD 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 Police responded to the shootout shortly after 10 p.m. in the 2700 block of Cleveland Avenue, near South Broad Street. Officers first received a call of a suspicious person in the area, then of shots fired. Ferguson said the woman was shot in the head and died at the hospital. Her husband was taken to the hospital, where he was treated for a gunshot wound to the arm. Ferguson said the couple heard their car alarm and went outside to look into it. Outside, they saw a person inside their vehicle. Around that time, another vehicle, which police believe was the intended get-away car, pulled up and someone inside of it, shouted to shoot," Ferguson said. The juvenile then, did, in fact, shoot, at the couple, Ferguson said, and the husband returned fire, resulting in the gunfire exchange. Police were later notified the 17-year-old arrived in a private vehicle at a different hospital with a gunshot injury. Investigators were able to positively identify the wounded teen as the one they believe tried to burglarize the couples car then fired the first shots in the eventual gun battle with the husband, Ferguson said. One of our residents lost his wife. This is real. He lost his wife. A daughter lost her mother. And its senseless, Mayor LaToya Cantrell said at a news conference Thursday morning at NOPD headquarters. Officials with the Army Corps of Engineers are recommending the reopening of the Bonnet Carre Spillway occur Tuesday morning (May 14), marking the first time the spillway has been opened twice in the same year. At a press conference Thursday, officials said they did not yet know how many of the spillway structures 350 bays will be opened. While the corps recommendation is to open Tuesday at 10 a.m., the commanding general will ultimately make the decision on timing. The height of the Mississippi River at the Carrollton Gauge was at 16.7 feet as of Thursday morning, just shy of the official flood stage of 17 feet. Its forecast to reach 16.9 feet on Friday and remain there until June 2 before beginning to drop again. While the official flood stage is 17 feet in New Orleans, levees and floodwalls protect the city to water heights of between 20 feet and 22 feet. The corps actually bases its decision on when to open the spillway to divert part of the Mississippi into Lake Pontchartrain on the amount of water flowing downstream, rather than the water height. The river is currently flowing at 1.21 million cubic feet per second, and 1.25 million cubic feet per is generally considered the trigger for a spillway opening. This will mark the 14th time since it was built in the aftermath of the historic 1927 Mississippi River flood that the spillway will be opened, and the first time that it will be reopened a second time in the same calendar year. The spillway was opened earlier this year on Feb. 27, and its last bays were closed April 11. Officials opened 206 of the spillways 350 bays, with the peak flow reaching 213,000 cubic feet per second of water diverted into Lake Pontchartrain. The corps will also monitor the environmental impact resulting from having to open the mechanism for the second time this year. In April, eleven dead dolphins were discovered near the Mississippi River Gulf Outlet suffering from freshwater lesions resulting from the influx of freshwater associated to the opening of the spillway, according to St. Bernard Parish officials. Emily Guidry Schatzel, a spokesperson for the National Wildlife Federation said in an April 23 email that the organization was awaiting results of ongoing investigations to determine what, if any, part the opening of the spillway earlier this spring played in the animals deaths. Environmental news in your inbox Stay up-to-date on the latest on Louisiana's coast and the environment. Sign up today. e-mail address * Sign Up An emergency spillway opening can cause unnaturally rapid decreases in salinity, that can cause short-term detrimental impacts, she said. But even shocks to the system have been shown time and again to provide net benefits to the entire ecosystem by increasing productivity in following years-- productivity that benefits wildlife like dolphins over the long term. The corps works closely with the U.S. Geological Survey to monitor water quality around Lake Pontchartrain, the Mississippi Sound, and as far out as Cat Island throughout the operation and maintains communication with other resource agencies as well, Mathew Roe, a corps spokesperson said in an email. The greatest factor in determining to operate the Bonnet Carre Spillway is the level of flood risk to the communities and residents down river from the structure, he said. Roe added that there isnt a designated fund attached to the operation of the Mississippi River system, but residents or business can submit a claim for economic damages attributed to the opening of the spillway. Heavy rain in Arkansas can be blamed for the expected jump in the river, said service coordination hydrologist Jeff Graschel. Between 3 and 5 inches of rain had fallen or will fall in that state over the next few days, with the water draining into the Arkansas River and then into the Mississippi. That water joins already high water levels traveling down the river due to earlier heavy rains in the Missouri, Ohio and upper Mississippi basins. NOLA.com | The Times-Picayune reporters Mark Schleifstein and Sara Sneath contributed to this report. Check back with NOLA.com | The Times-Picayune for more details. Last year, emergency room doctors in St. Tammany Parish signed more than 6,000 orders committing people to emergency psychiatric holds. Mental health officials hope the opening of a crisis center on the planned Safe Haven campus near Mandeville late this year or in early 2020 will significantly reduce that number. The Crisis Receiving Center will anchor the Safe Haven campus, a repurposing of the former state mental health hospital on U.S. 190 near Fontainebleau State Park. Parish officials spearheading the project envision the campus as sort of a one-stop mental health services provider. Once open, the center will be an entry point for people seeking emergency mental health help, Casey Guidry, a social worker and CEO of Start Corp., the non-profit that will run the center, said Thursday (May 9). Bids for the renovation work will to be received by the parish in the next few days, parish officials said. They declined to say how much they expect the work to cost until the bids are in hand. Once open, the center will be an entry point for people seeking emergency mental health help, said Casey Guidry, a social worker and CEO of Start Corp.. The nonprofit will operate the center. From there, Guidry said, patients might be admitted for up to 72 hours for observation or referred to long-term treatment options. Guidry joined parish and mental health agency officials Thursday (May 9) for a roundtable discussion of the Safe Haven project. St. Tammany top stories in your inbox A weekly guide to the biggest news in St. Tammany. Sign up today. e-mail address * Sign Up The state closed the mental hospital in 2012 and the parish eventually purchased the nearly 300-acre site for $15.4 million and began efforts to repurpose it under the Safe Haven name. The parish sold a portion of the hospital to Northlake Behavioral Health for $6.7 million in 2016. Referencing the number of ER psychiatric commitments, Nick Richard, executive director of NAMI St. Tammany, said having a crisis center will reduce the number of people who wind up in emergency rooms or jails due to mental health breakdowns. NAMI St. Tammany operates a day center on the site. Richard said a recent federal study showed that only 40% of Louisiana residents in need of mental health services actually receive those services. Safe Haven grant Services at the crisis center will be funded through Medicaid and private insurance, Guidry said. The Safe Haven campus buildout is being funded in part by the parishs health millage, money from the BP settlement and other grants, St. Tammany Parish President Pat Brister said. We feel like weve finally turned a corner with this project," said Kelly Rabalais, parish governments chief administrative officer. In an interview with New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell about her first year in office, WWL-TVs Eric Paulsen asked if she agreed with those whove said her administration has lacked transparency. Cantrell responded with her characteristic certitude. Absolutely not, she said. I think I've been the most transparent of telling it like it is, how I found it, being very upfront and honest about the existing conditions in our city.... I would love to hear and even see some examples where I have not been transparent. The mayors memory must be failing her. Or she doesnt know what transparency is. Because she gives the public information on a need-to-know basis, and generally governs as if we never do. Her demand to Paulsen for examples of non-transparency is a dare. So lets take it. Between her election and her inauguration, Cantrell required that people on her transition advisory team sign nondisclosure agreements, prohibiting them from publicly talking about what they discussed. Her predecessor, Mitch Landrieu, had no such requirement. Neither did Gov.-elect John Bel Edwards. Ditto, Sharon Weston Broome as she prepared to become mayor of Baton Rouge. A Jan. 28, 2018, Times-Picayune editorial said Cantrells requirement of NDAs signals that she doesn't want the public to know what the committees are told or what they think about the condition of New Orleans' government. Why the secrecy? Was it to prevent the public from knowing that former state Sen. Derrick Shepherd whod served time in prison for money laundering was hanging around her transition team? Was it to prevent it from getting out that she was planning to give former New Orleans Police Superintendent Warren Riley a homeland security position? Cantrell said she decided not to move forward with his employment. Riley, in a lawsuit, accuses her of breach of contract. He says he quit his federal job after she told him the city position was his. As mayor of New Orleans, Cantrell is the president of the Sewerage & Water Board, and, thus, was the president in August when there was a conference call between several board members to discuss pay raises that had been awarded to some S&WB executives. Louisiana has open meetings laws that would prohibit a quorum from meeting over the phone, but Cantrell insists that conference call was not a meeting. But whatever it was seems to have been awfully consequential. Almost immediately, the mayor announced the resignation of the interim S&WB director and three deputies. A phone call with S&WB shouldn't replace a public meeting So committed to transparency is Cantrell that when a local reporter wrote a story based on information shared in a S&WB meeting that was open to the public, the mayor reportedly phoned and chewed him out: What do you want to do, screw the city?! The New Orleans Advocate quotes her asking. You can play games if you want, but this is not the one. Without explanation, Cantrell removed Andreanecia Morris one of the citys most prominent affordable housing advocates from the board of the Housing Authority of New Orleans. Without notice to the public or the New Orleans City Council, Cantrell changed the settings on speed cameras in school zones. In a 2012 press release, Mitch Landrieus administration had made plain what drivers could expect: The citation threshold will remain 6 miles per hour over the speed limit during school zone hours when the lights are flashing. I lowered the threshold by two miles, Cantrell told Paulsen. Should you have let people know that? I dont believe so. Absolutely not. Why not? Because. Do not speed in school zones. Even though Cantrell changed the citys official policy without notifying the public, she believes she still has the standing to call herself transparent. How? Who knew Cantrell was going to Cuba? Neither she nor her administration announced it ahead of time. It wasn't like a thief in the night, the mayor told Paulsen. It was something that had been planned and creating a delegation that would go and visit and look at many different areas. The complaint isnt that she took a spur-of-the-moment trip. Nor is the complaint that she went alone. The complaint is that she didnt tell the public that she was going, when, how or why. She just went. Is that allowed? Sure. Is it transparent? No. And the mayors argument that the people who went with her knew about it doesnt prove that she publicized it; it only proves they werent kidnapped. Its no secret weve been in Cuba breaking down silos and building relationships, Cantrell tweeted April 5. It wasnt a secret then because reporters had written about the trip. If Cantrell thinks her confirming what reporters have found out counts as transparency, then shes mistaken. Transparency is telling them in advance so finding it out isnt necessary. Jarvis DeBerry 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 Jarvis at jdeberry@nola.com or @jarvisdeberry. As a scientist at LSU, Dr. Catherine O'Neal knew the COVID-19 vaccines had undergone rigorous safety testing before they were made available for children. But when the time came to sign her own kids up for the jab, the mother of three experienced AMES Monarch butterflies are fluttering this way, and, with some luck, theyll be more plentiful than in previous years when they reach Iowa later this spring. During the winter months, scientists observed the largest overwintering monarch population in Mexico since 2007, said Steven Bradbury, a professor of natural resource ecology and management at Iowa State University. Bradbury is urging Iowans to maintain existing summer breeding habitat in the months ahead in the hope that such efforts throughout the Midwest can help sustain future monarch populations. Monarch butterfly numbers have dropped sharply in recent years, in part due to a corresponding loss of summer breeding habitat. In 2013, the plight of the monarchs became so dire that scientists worried a single harsh winter could collapse the species continental migration, Bradbury said. But ideal weather conditions last year fueled a rebound. Monarch butterflies migrate to the same forested area in central Mexico every winter. Measuring the area of forest canopy occupied by the butterflies gives scientists a convenient way of estimating the size of the population. The butterflies covered fewer than 2.5 acres in the winter of 2013-2014, the populations lowest point in the last two decades. Last winter, however, the butterflies covered nearly 15 acres, which means a large population of butterflies is now migrating into the southern United States. As long as the weather remains favorable, Iowans can expect to see an abundant monarch population beginning in late May or early June, Bradbury said. He said maintaining that 15-acre mark consistently would put the species on much stronger footing when faced with a harsh winter in Mexico and other extreme weather events in the United States that could threaten the species. The Iowa Monarch Conservation Consortium, a diverse partnership of 45 organizations supported by Iowa State University, the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship, and the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, is spearheading an effort to plant between 480,000 and 830,000 acres of new habitat by 2038. As part of ongoing outreach and education statewide, the Iowa Monarch Conservation Consortium encourages Iowans to follow best practices to maintain existing monarch habitat. Large and small habitat patches including field edges, public parks, and roadsides are critical to provide habitat connectivity across the landscape, Bradbury said, as is the responsible use of pesticides. The consortium encourages the planting of new habitat that includes native forbs and milkweeds, the only plant species on which monarchs lay eggs and the only plant species monarch larvae eat. Establishing new habitat is essential to supporting the long-term recovery of the monarch population. Iowa is perfectly situated to lead the way in conservation efforts for the monarch butterfly. Since Iowa is located within the monarchs core breeding range, every patch of milkweed habitat added here counts toward national monarch conservation efforts, said Bruce Trautman, acting director of the Iowa Department of Natural Resources. The recovery cannot succeed without Iowa. The consortium is working with municipalities as well as farmers to expand the amount of monarch habitat in the state. Bradbury said agricultural involvement is crucial because much of Iowas private lands are devoted to agriculture. You cant get to Iowas target without a significant commitment of the non-crop land thats part of the agricultural landscape, Bradbury said. Interstate 29 has reopened with some restrictions from the Glenwood-interchange to Missouri. The stretch of interstate has been closed since March floods damaged the highway, cutting off the major north-south route and the main highway passage from the Omaha metro area to Kansas City. But construction crews have made steady progress on repairs, leading to Wednesday mornings announcement of the reopening. Officials had targeted June for the reopening, then recently moved up the schedule to Memorial Day. The reopening covers the route from U.S. Highway 34 near Glenwood to the Missouri border. Even so, officials said drivers can expect occasional lane closures and head-to-head traffic for one mile over a southbound bridge at mile marker 8.5, according to the Nebraska Department of Transportation. For now, no oversized or overweight loads will be allowed, officials said. But many smaller towns in Nebraska will welcome losing some of the traffic thats been diverted to smaller highways south, including U.S. Highway 75. Residents have complained about the loud, heavy traffic and speeding from traffic that had doubled or tripled with I-29 closed. Some other adjacent highways along the route remain closed. That includes the U.S. Highway 34 connection between I-29 and Bellevue. Iowa Highway 2 is open to eastbound traffic off Interstate 29 and has access to traveler services. Nebraska Highway 2 is closed. Drivers can check current closures at news.iowadot.gov and 511.nebraska.gov. With a pair of crashes over the weekend one a fiery commercial crash in Moscow that cost the lives of more than 40 passengers and that of a charter airliner that ran off a Florida runway into a river with no deaths involved travelers might be wondering if flying has become more dangerous. A new report from The Associated Press says aviation experts regard the recent incidents as a statistical blip, pointing to figures that show such accidents and fatalities are a fraction of what they were as recently as the 1990s. Advances in aircraft and airport design, better air traffic control and improved pilot training are often cited by experts as factors in reducing accidents. In the U.S., no airline passengers were killed in accidents from 2009 until April 2018, when a woman on a Southwest Airlines jet died after an engine broke apart during a flight. Worldwide, there were more than 50 fatal airline accidents a year through the early and mid-1990s, claiming in excess of 1,000 lives annually, according to figures compiled by the Flight Safety Foundation. Since then, fatalities have dropped worldwide from 1,844 in 1996 to just 59 in 2017. But fatalities rose to 561 last year and, this year, have already reached 209. Nearly half of the airline deaths in 2018 and 2019 occurred during the crashes of two Boeing 737 Max jets in Indonesia and Ethiopia. In each of the cases involving the Boeing aircraft, investigators are examining the role of flight software that pushed the nose of the plane down based on faulty sensor readings. William Waldock, an expert at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, told The AP that raises concerns about safety around automated flight controls. Pilots are not being trained as much as pilots as they are system operators and system managers, he said. So when something happens and the automation fails, they get flummoxed. Waldocks point is one that will be considered and studied. Technology is rarely, if ever, perfect. Investigators probe crashes in search of clues to prevent more accidents from the same cause, and thats precisely whats happened following the crash of the two Boeing 737 Max jets. I dont think well ever get to zero accidents, but aviation is still the safest its ever been, said Seth Young, director of the aviation program at Ohio State University. Ranger D. Romes works with Cinco during a three-day horsemanship training at Steel Creek. M. West/NPS Photo April 26, 2019 Contact: Lauren Ray, 870-861-2570 As of mid-April, visitors to the Steel Creek Area of Buffalo National River may be greeted at the fence line by a couple of new faces. The National Park Service recently purchased two quarter horses from the Arkansas Department of Correction (ADC) to revitalize Buffalo National Rivers mounted patrol program. The horses, named Nacho and Cinco, have undergone several years of routine training and active service through the North Central Unit of the ADCs robust horse program based in Calico Rock. Through this program, ADC staff and inmates work cooperatively to breed and train horses that eventually serve the prisons security mission, allowing officers to supervise field crews, patrol the prison premises and lead manhunts on horseback. A few exceptional horses, like Nacho and Cinco, are later purchased by other agencies to assist with similar security missions. These two [horses] were selected for Buffalo National River because they have been trained to thrive in that type of work environment, explained Tom Green, Horse Program Manager at the North Central Unit of ADC. Nacho and Cinco have worked specifically on squads and regional maintenance at the facility in Calico Rock. Green transported the new horses to Steel Creek and facilitated a three-day training on equine care, barn management and horsemanship for Buffalo National River personnel earlier this month. The horses will be used for backcountry patrols and search and rescue operations in remote areas of the park like the Ponca Wilderness and Lower Buffalo Wilderness, where vehicular access is non-existent and on-foot emergency response is inefficient. Buffalo National River has a long-standing tradition of equestrian use, Chief Ranger Randy Scoggins said. We are thankful for this partnership with the Arkansas Department of Correction. The new horses will help our rangers better serve the American public and ensure visitor safety and resource protection at the Buffalo. We plan to use them in a few community parades each year, too. Construction workers rebuilding C&O Canal Towpath at Big Slackwater in 2013. April 15, 2019 Contact: Hollie Lynch, 301-491-0149 HAGERSTOWN, Md. The National Park Service (NPS) has approved a plan to stabilize a historic stone wall and raise parts of the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal (C&O Canal) towpath, move it farther from the Potomac River and resurface it. The improvements will be made between McMahons Mill (milepost 88.1) and Lock 42 (milepost 89.0) in Washington County, Md. Right now, high water makes sections of the towpath in this area impassable many times each year, requiring a 3-mile detour for hikers and bikers on narrow, winding county roads. Currently, the towpath is impassable to vehicles, which prevents emergency vehicles from reaching injured visitors or employees. A similar project was completed downstream of McMahons Mill through Big Slackwater in 2012. The project, as approved in this plan, will resurface the length of the towpath from McMahons Mill to Lock 42, stabilize and reconstruct portions of the towpaths stone wall, move short sections of the towpath farther inland, widen areas to allow access for emergency and maintenance vehicles and raise the elevation of some areas of the towpath. This will improve safety and reduce the impacts of high water events to the towpath historic features of the park and park visitors. A Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) was signed on April 15, 2019 by Acting National Capital Regional Director Lisa Mendelson-Ielmini. A FONSI is a decision document following the completion of an environmental assessment that selects how the NPS will implement a project and outlines conservation measures that the NPS will take to avoid, minimize or mitigate impacts when the project is implemented. This follows the guidelines of the National Environmental Policy Act and the National Historic Preservation Act. Copies of the environmental assessment (EA) and FONSI can be found on the NPS Planning, Environment and Public Comment (PEPC) website at: https://parkplanning.nps.gov/ projectHome.cfm?projectID= 65252 May 6, 2019For Media Inquiries, 406-888-5838For Visitor Inquiries, 406-888-7800 West Glacier, MT Park waters will open between May 11 and June 1. Lake McDonald area inspection stations and west side waters will open to boating on May 11. East side park waters and inspection stations will open to boating on June 1. Procedures for Gas-Powered Watercraft Gas-powered motorized watercraft to be allowed on Lake McDonald, Two Medicine, and Bowman Lakes after 30-day dry time Watercraft should be clean, drained, and dry before inspection (see detailed boat inspection standards below) Motorized boats will be sealed to trailers after inspection, and must maintain intact seal and documentation of inspection and sealing for 30-day dry time Park staff will check documentation and remove seals prior to launch Inspection seals from Montana State, Blackfeet Nation, Confederated Salish-Kootenai, and Whitefish Lake inspection stations will be honored on Lake McDonald and Two Medicine Lake after 30-day dry time Boaters on Two Medicine and Bowman Lakes should review the Glacier National Park boating page for specific instructions related to quarantine and launch for those areas, as well as motor size restrictions Hand-launched gas-powered watercraft of less than 10hp will be allowed on Bowman Lake, but trailers are not permitted on Bowman Road, therefore hand launching is required Procedures for Hand-Propelled Watercraft After inspection, non-motorized, non-trailered watercraft also may launch on May 11 on west side waters without the 30-day dry time All watercraft should be clean, drained, and dry before inspection (see detailed boat inspection standards below) Non-trailered boats with electric trolling motors may launch on Lake McDonald, Bowman, Two Medicine, St. Mary, Sherburne, and Swiftcurrent Lakes without a 30-day dry time because the air-cooled motors are classified as lower risk Procedures for Watercraft Available for Rent Motorized watercraft rented and operated under National Park Service contract with Glacier Park Boat Company will continue to be available, in addition to boat tours Motorboat rentals will be available this summer on Lake McDonald and Two Medicine Lake AIS Detection Dogs This year, the park and partner agencies will provide dogs specially trained in invasive mussel detection. These aquatic invasive species (AIS) detection dogs will use scent to assist human inspectors at select inspection stations this summer. Working Dogs for Conservation in Bozeman, MT, and Black Dog Services in Missoula, MT, will provide the dogs. Other project partners include Montana Fish Wildlife and Parks, the Blackfeet Tribe, and the Confederated Salish Kootenai Tribes. Because of expense and time factors, the dogs' work is limited in Montana. However, they do an important job and serve as an innovative outreach tool to communicate with the public about the importance of aquatic invasive species prevention. When finalized, the schedule for AIS detection dogs visiting state, tribal, and federal inspection stations will be posted on the Glacier National Park boating page . Boat Inspection Standards All watercraft must be clean, drained, and dry prior to inspection All non-motorized watercraft will be inspected, including but not limited to canoes, kayaks, row boats, sail boats, paddleboards, float tubes, inner tubes, and wind surfboards Small, low-grade inflatable childrens water toys including water wings, rings, etc. will not require a permit Watercraft must be accessible and inflated for inspection: uninflated rafts or float tubes, watercraft with internal water holding tanks, wash systems, etc. will be denied a launch permit New, unused inflatable watercraft will not require an inspection; however, they will require a permit before launching An inspection will be required upon each entry to the park if intending to launch, but visitors staying overnight in the park will not need a daily inspection Park personnel inspected 10,742 non-motorized watercraft in 2018. Visitors should plan ahead, build time into their schedules, and have their watercraft clean, drained, dry, and ready for inspection upon arrival. Although many non-motorized boats can be inspected on top of vehicle roof racks, boaters should be prepared to take their boats down for inspection, especially if they have internal standing water or are dirty. The park will continue to assess the inspection program and aquatic invasive species threat throughout the summer and may make adjustments in hours and scope of the permitting process, and areas where boats are permitted, depending on funding and as new information emerges. The parks aquatic invasive species prevention program and boating regulations have undergone significant changes since 2016 following the detection of invasive quagga or zebra mussels within the State of Montana. The park received funding again this year from the Glacier National Park Conservancy to expand inspection capacity to prevent the introduction of non-native aquatic invaders. These funds allow the park to offer significantly extended inspection dates and hours of operation. Procedures and locations for obtaining a non-motorized watercraft launch permit are outlined below: Lake McDonald* Parking lot across the street from the Apgar boat ramp May 11 - May 25 7:00 a.m - 5:00 p.m. May 26 - October 31 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. (station closure times will adjust as summer daylight wanes) *Offers motorized boat inspections and seals North Fork Area There are no inspection stations located in the North Fork region. Boaters traveling to the North Fork should visit the Lake McDonald inspection station prior to launch. North Fork residents should contact the Polebridge Ranger Station for possible alternate inspection procedures and motorized boat resealing. Two Medicine Ranger Station* June 1 - September 28 7:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. *Offers motorized boat inspections and seals St. Mary Visitor Center June 1 - September 28 7:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Many Glacier Ranger Station The American Battlefield Protection Program promotes the preservation of significant historic battlefields associated with wars on American soil, like Stones River pictured above. NPS Photo News Release Date: April 29, 2019 Contact: NewsMedia@nps.gov State Grantee Amount Maryland Frederick County: South Mountain Battlefield, Brandenburg Trust Tract, 18.71 acres (Fee Simple) Project Partner: American Battlefield Trust $160,552.50 www.nps.gov About the National Park Service. More than 20,000 National Park Service employees care for Americas 419 national parks and work with communities across the nation to help preserve local history and create close-to-home recreational opportunities. Learn more at www.nps.gov, and on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube @nationalparkservice. #FindYourPark WASHINGTON The National Park Service today announced a $160,552.50 grant from the American Battlefield Protection Program to help protect 18.71 acres of Americas battlefields in Maryland threatened with damage or destruction by urban and suburban development. This grant will be used to acquire a portion of the South Mountain Battlefield, a significant Civil War Battlefield.Battlefield Land Acquisition Grants allow for the permanent protection of lands associated with historic battles in our countrys history, National Park Service Deputy Director P. Daniel Smith said. The grants enable communities to partner with public, private, and non-profit organizations to preserve and provide access to meaningful places that connect us to our past.In September of 1862, mislaid communications led to the Battle of South Mountain. Confederate General Robert E. Lees plans to split the Army of Northern Virginia, sending half into western Maryland and half to capture the Federal garrison at Harpers Ferry, landed in the hands of Union Commander Major General George B. McClellan. McClellan responded to this intelligence by sending his forces to South Mountain to destroy the Confederate forces and divide Lees vulnerable Army. While the Union was successful against the Confederate forces at South Mountain, Confederate resistance allowed Lee to reunite and concentrate his forces setting the stage for the Battle of Antietam three days later.The American Battlefield Protection Programs Battlefield Land Acquisition Grant program provides up to 50% in matching funds for state and local governments to acquire and preserve threatened Revolutionary War, War of 1812, and Civil War Battlefield land through the purchase of land in fee simple and permanent, protective interests in land. Eligible battlefields are listed in the Civil War Sites Advisory Commissions 1993 Report on the Nations Civil War Battlefields and the 2007 Report to Congress on the Historic Preservation of Revolutionary War and War of 1812 Sites in the United States.For more information about program, including these grants, please visit: https://www.nps.gov/orgs/2287/index.htm May 2, 2019 Visitor Center , 505-757-7241 Pecos, NM: Pecos National Historical Park is honored to have been selected to host a Kids to Parks Day event in conjunction with National Park Trust and Buddy Bison Student Ambassador Bryan Wilson. Kids to Parks Day is a nationwide celebration of the great outdoors organized by National Park Trust and is designed to connect kids and families with their local, state, and national parks and public lands. Together, we invite you to help us celebrate at Pecos National Historical Park on Saturday, May 18th.. Schedule of Free Family Events: Junior Ranger Activity Books 12:00 p.m. 4:00 p.m. Families and children of all ages are invited to earn their Junior Ranger badges, pins, and patches. Challenge yourself with the Junior Angler Book, Pecos Junior Ranger Book, the Not-So-Junior Ranger Activity Book, the Santa Fe Trail Junior Ranger Book, or the Wagon Master Junior Ranger. Junior Rangers will have fun rolling up their sleeves and trying their hands at fish printing, corn grinding with a mano and metate, and shooting traditional bows and arrows! Kids who complete any of the Junior Ranger Books will receive a free plush Buddy Bison from National Park Trust. (Supplies are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis). All kids are encouraged to enter the free raffle to win wonderful prizes courtesy of Western National Parks Association. New Mexico Wildlife Center Presents: Wild New Mexico 1:00 p.m. 1:45p.m. Join us as we meet some unique animal ambassadors from the New Mexico Wildlife Center including snakes and raptors. Yucca Bracelet Workshop with Eric Blinman 2:00 p.m. 3:00 p.m. Join us as we transform yucca fiber and shells into jewelry in the style of the Ancestral Puebloans with Archaeologist Dr. Eric Blinman, who is the Director for New Mexicos Office of Archaeological Studies. About Junior Ranger Ambassador Bryan Wilson In May of 2018, Bryan Wilson was named a Buddy Bison Student Ambassador for the National Park Trust, one of four in the country, to promote public lands and share what he learns. He represents National Park Trust by supporting its mission and programs. He is a steward of our parks and loves to discover different public lands and waters and share what he learns with other kids. On May 18th, he will kick off his Kids to Parks Day event by partnering with Santa Fe Boy Scout Troop 414 and local Eagle Scout candidate Ryan Cordova on a conservation service project related to the parks three Civil War Monuments. About National Park Trust National Park Trust (NPT) is a non-profit dedicated to preserving parks today and creating park stewards for tomorrow. NPT is the only land trust with a comprehensive mission of protecting national parks through land acquisition, and creating a pipeline of future park stewards by getting kids to parks. Since 1983, NPT has completed 70 land projects in 31 states, 1 US Territory, and Washington, DC. This school year, NPT will provide an estimated 25,000 under-served kids with park trips through their nationally recognized Buddy Bison Programs and Kids to Parks Day National School Contest, both of which support Title I schools. Learn more at www.parktrust.org. Many thanks to Eastern National Parks Association, Western National Parks Association, National Park Trust, New Mexico Wildlife Center, and Boy Scout Troop 414 for their invaluable assistance. For more information about the park in general, contact Pecos NHP at (505) 757-7241 or visit our website at www.nps.gov/peco. You will also find our listings on the New Mexico True website (newmexico.org) and Tourism Santa Fe (santafe.org). Please like on us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/Pecos NHPnps or Instagram(https://www.instagram.com/pec os_nps). From I-25 N: Take the Pecos/Glorieta Exit, #299. Left onto overpass, right onto Route 50; proceed on Route 50 for eight miles. At the village of Pecos, take a right at the four-way stop onto Route 63. In two miles, the park will be on your right. From I-25 S: Take the Rowe Exit, #307. Follow signs. From Highway 63, the park will be on your left. May 8, 2019 Rocky Mountain National Park invites you to a special program at 7 p.m. Friday, May 17, at the Beaver Meadows Visitor Center. On this special day, America will celebrate endangered species success stories, including the protection and recovery of the American bald eagle and Rockys own peregrine falcon. Are you concerned about threatened or endangered species, and their preservation as part of our natural world? How do species come to be at the brink of extinction, and how can they be recovered? The answers are at the heart of the Endangered Species Act of 1973. This program traces the history of that landmark legislation and the successful actions, including little-known backstories, of scientists and citizens to recover or preserve such species as peregrine falcons, Canada lynx, boreal toads, and our native greenback cutthroat trout. Started in 2006 by the United States Congress, Endangered Species Day is a celebration of the nations wildlife and wild places. The goal of Endangered Species Day is simple, to highlight the importance of protecting and recovering our rare, threatened, and endangered animal and plant species. In Colorado, the peregrine falcon is making a remarkable recovery thanks to efforts to protect these animals and their homes. Without these efforts, we might have lost these special falcons forever. Our commitment to protecting rare wildlife ensures that Coloradoans can enjoy living side-by-side with all plant and wildlife for generations to come. One reason for the nations success in protecting wildlife is the passage, over 45 years ago, of the federal Endangered Species Act. The Endangered Species Act has successfully prevented the extinction of hundreds of species, including the humpback whale, Kirtlands warbler, and bull trout. Many of our nations signature species, such as the Florida panther, Hawaiian monk seal, and Alabama red-bellied turtle, owe their continued existence to the protections of the Act. The resounding success of the Act is found in the fact that just nine animals out of the more than 1,800 species listed as endangered under the Act have been declared extinct. This is in part thanks to the everyday actions that individuals can take to help protect our nations wildlife, fish and plants. Join us to learn how you can help! This program is free and open to the public. For more information about Rocky Mountain National Park please visit www.nps.gov/romo or call the parks Information Office at (970) 586-1206. April 28, 2019 Jalyn Cummings , 540-999-3500 ext 3497 Claire Comer , 540-999-3500 ext. 3183 Luray, Virginia: Clean air is vitally important for Shenandoah National Park and now you can learn more about its connection to the park through an interactive Virtual Field Trip launched today by the National Park Service in partnership with the American Geosciences Institute (AGI). We like to celebrate the many benefits of clean air every day, but are especially excited to unveil this virtual field trip during Air Quality Awareness Week, April 29 - May 3, 2019. Virtual Field Trip: Air Quality at Shenandoah National Park incorporates interactive features allowing visitors to virtually explore the park, enjoying beautiful park vistas while learning about scientific contributions that the park makes to our understanding of air quality. What can you do on the site? Explore park vistas. Examine milkweed leaves damaged by ozone through a microscope. Learn how dragonflies provide indicators of mercury pollution. Listen to scientists talk about conservation measures. Dive underwater to find how acid rain affects streams. Check out the high-tech equipment in the parks air-quality monitoring station. And much more. The Virtual Field Trip draws on online resources of Shenandoah National Park and the National Park Services Air Resource Division, combining them into a coherent, engaging experience that illuminates the parks vital role in monitoring air quality. The website is the latest product of AGIs long-running collaboration with the National Park Service, which shines a spotlight on the parks important role in geoscience education. Teaching, learning, and informational resources are shared each year through the Earth Science Week public awareness campaign. This year's Earth Science Week will be held from October 13 - 19, 2019. The Virtual Field Trip can be found on Shenandoahs Interactive Features website https://www.nps.gov/shen/learn/photosmultimedia/interactive-features.htm. Click on Air Quality to pull up a Standard version and an Accessible version, allowing users with certain disabilities to have access to the same materials in a more accessible manner. In this way, the Virtual Field Trip helps illustrate the Earth Science Week 2019 theme of Geoscience Is for Everyone, celebrating diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility in the geosciences. April 23, 2019 The National Park Service (NPS) plans to conduct a prescribed fire in two burn units this spring, and as soon as this week, at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore (National Lakeshore). This is the first broadcast (wide area) prescribed fire to ever be held at the National Lakeshore and is the start of using fire as a management tool for the years to come. The fire itself is a tool intended to restore habitat in forested ecosystems in the park. The burn units cover approximately 917 acres within the National Lakeshores Platte River District in Benzie County, between Esch and Peterson Roads and west of M-22. For safety, the White Pine Backcountry Campground and some of the small roads and trails in the park will be closed to visitors during the active burning period.The area to be burned contains unique, fire-dependent plant communities known as dry northern forest and wooded swale. Dry northern forest is typically dominated by a mix of hardwoods and jack pine or red pine. Wooded swales are low areas between post-glacial ridges that support forested wetlands and a variety of wildflowers and other herbaceous plants. Both are important to the diversity of the Sleeping Bear Dunes ecosystem.To ensure safe execution of the prescribed fire, and effective conservation of the dry northern forest and wooded swales, the burn will be conducted only under a specific set of weather and fuel conditions, or prescription. The actual burn date will depend upon NPS fire staff monitoring weather forecasts and fuel moisture to determine if and when prescription conditions are met. In addition to safety, smoke dispersal is a primary concern, and wind direction and speed will be monitored prior to ignition to minimize smoke drifting into developed areas and roadways from the remote fire location. Trained and experienced federal fire personnel will conduct the prescribed fire.Prior to European settlement approximately 180 years ago, majestic dry northern forests were common in the northern Lower Peninsula of Michigan. Logging and suppression of naturally-occurring wildfires led to the decline of this forest type in the Great Lakes region. Red and jack pine usually rely on fire to regenerate and many of the species found within wooded swales need openings in the canopy for access to sunlight. Without fire as a disturbance, the slow encroachment of hardwood species and shrubs eventually outcompetes the pines, altering community composition and canopy structure. Conserving these remnants of high quality dry northern forests and wooded swales through prescribed burns will allow National Lakeshore visitors to continue to experience an ecosystem that represents a bygone, wild component of Michigans natural history. In addition, burning under controlled conditions will reduce fuel loads and reduce the risk of uncontrolled wildfire in the future. NPS Photo May 4, 2019 Contact: Bill Fischer, 570-340-5244 SCRANTON, Pa. Steamtown National Historic Site (NHS) welcomes visitors to help commemorate the 150th anniversary of the completion of the first Transcontinental Railroad with special activities at the park from May 10-12, 2019. With the driving of a ceremonial golden spike on May 10, 1869 at Promontory Summit, Utah Territory, the nation was linked from coast to coast by rail, accelerating the transit of people and goods across country at a speed not previously known.Steamtown NHS is offering several different activities to commemorate this historic event. On Friday and Saturday, May 10-11, rangers will lead guided tours of Scrantons luxurious former Delaware, Lackawanna and Western (DL&W) Railroad passenger station, now the Radisson Lackawanna Station Hotel. The tours depart from Steamtown NHS at 10:00 am, 12:30 pm, and 2:30 pm aboard the Scranton Limited, which will be powered by the Baldwin Locomotive Works #26 steam locomotive. Learn about the history of this grand building, which is highlighted by a magnificent skylight and murals of sites found along the DL&W mainline that made the former passenger waiting room one of the most elegant spaces in the city. Dont miss your chance to be taken back in time to when the station was the place to be! Tickets are only $5/person and can be purchased at the parks Ticket and Information Booth in person or by calling 570-340-5204 and paying via credit card (the tickets will be held for you Will Call at the booth).And dont miss the Marketplace at Steamtown Postal Store special cancellation station set up at Steamtown NHS from 11:00 am until 3:00 pm on Saturday, May 11. The United States Postal Service is honoring the 150th anniversary of the Transcontinental Railroad with three commemorative first class stamps. The stamps and envelopes can be purchased on site at the Steamtown NHS bookstore while supplies last or visitors can bring their own. The store also has a selection of railroad-themed postcards for purchase that could be cancelled as anniversary mementos. Visitors take their stamps, envelopes, and postcards to Steamtown NHSs History Museum, where postal workers will be set up in the Louisville & Nashville Railway Post Office (RPO) car to commemorate the day with a Steamtown cancellation.Then, on Sunday, May 12, make Mom queen for the day aboard a special Mothers Day railroad passenger excursion into the Poconos to the quaint town of Moscow, where the former passenger station and freight depot will be open for viewing. The train departs Steamtown NHS at 1:30 pm and returns after 3:30 pm. Ticket prices are: Adults (ages 16-61), $24.00; Seniors (ages 62+), $22.00; Children (ages 6-15), $17.00, and Children to age 5, free (ticket obtained at fee booth). For more information or to make reservations, please call 570-340-5204.Steamtown NHS will further observe this special anniversary with regular showings of Golden Spike, the orientation film shown at Golden Spike National Historic Park, Utah, the National Park Service site which commemorates the event, along with other railroad related DVDs. Memorabilia commemorating the 100th anniversary, on loan from the California State Railroad Museum in Sacramento, will be on display in the History Museum. Steamtown NHS will also bring Nickel Plate Road (NKP) #759 steam locomotive out of the Roundhouse for a rare weekend photo op. NKP #759 pulled the special 1969 Golden Spike Centennial Limited across the Midwest as far as Omaha, Nebraska, before handing the train off to another locomotive to complete the journey to Utah for 100th anniversary activities.Located in downtown Scranton, Pa., Steamtown NHS is open daily from 9:00 a.m. 5:00 p.m. daily. From I-81 follow exit 185 (Central Scranton Expressway); then follow the brown and white signs to the park entrance at Lackawanna Avenue and Cliff Street (GPS: N 41.41, W 75.67). General park information is available by phoning (570) 340-5206 during regular business hours, or by visiting the park website anytime.About the National Park Service. More than 20,000 National Park Service employees care for America's 419 national parks and work with communities across the nation to help preserve local history and create close-to-home recreational opportunities. Visit us at www.nps.gov, on Facebook , Twitter , and YouTube www.youtube.com/nationalparkservice Male cougar in a tree NPS / Connor Meyer May 8, 2019 Contact: Morgan Warthin, (307) 344-2015 MAMMOTH HOT SPRINGS, WY - Three men who violated the Lacey Act in Yellowstone National Park (an act that prohibits hunting in the park) have been sentenced in federal court. The men, from Livingston, Montana, were charged with illegally hunting a male mountain lion in the northern section of the park, north of the Yellowstone River, December 12, 2018.According to court documents, Austin Peterson, Trey Juhnke, and Corbin Simmons, crossed the parks marked boundary to hunt mountain lions. Each hunter admitted to shooting the lion and transporting the carcass back to their vehicle. Simmons then falsely claimed to have harvested the animal north of the park boundary in Montana. This affected the states quota system by denying a legal hunter the opportunity to legally harvest a lion.On Friday, May 3, 2019, Peterson, age 20, was ordered to pay approximately $1,700 in restitution and fees, and must serve three years of unsupervised probation, during which time he is banned from hunting, fishing, or trapping worldwide. Juhnke, age 20, and Simmons, age 19, received similar sentences at hearings in April 2019. All three pleaded guilty to the charges at prior court hearings.I would like to express a sincere thank you to Montana Fish, Wildlife, and Parks, law enforcement officers at Yellowstone National Park, the National Park Service Investigative Services Branch , and the US Attorney's Office - District of Wyoming for being involved in this case, said Yellowstone National Park Chief Ranger Pete Webster. Their thorough work spotlighted this egregious act and the consequences incurred for hunting illegally in Yellowstone National Park.Under the Lacey Act , it is unlawful to import, export, sell, acquire, or purchase fish, wildlife or plants that are taken, possessed, transported, or sold in violation of US or Indian law or in interstate or foreign commerce involving any fish, wildlife, or plants taken possessed or sold in violation of State or foreign law.If you witness a crime, have information about suspicious activity or wildlife takings in Yellowstone, call the 24-hour Tip Line at 307-344-2132. Callers can remain anonymous.Though seldom seen by the public, biologists estimate that 20-31 adult cougars reside year-round in the northern range (an average of 12-18 females and 8-13 males). These estimates are based on field surveys and statistical analyses conducted from 20142017. Biologists found higher estimates in the later years of the study. The numbers do not include kitten and sub-adult cougars which accompany a portion of the adult females each year. Monitoring efforts since 2017 suggest a stable population consistent with these estimates for previous years.Editors note: A photo of the mountain lion that was killed is not available. However, a photo of a mountain lion is available on Flickr. The Mid-Plains Community College Office of Public Information and Marketing will be recognized in Louisiana for winning multiple categories in a national competition. Heather Johnson, MPCC area public information specialist, won five awards in the National Federation of Press Womens Professional Communications Contest. Those include first place finishes in: public relations videos for web; community, institutional or internal relations; single news or feature release and multiple news or feature releases. Johnson also received a third place award in the public relations media pitch category. To qualify for nationals, the awards had to win the state competition first. Johnson was recognized for winning the same categories during the Nebraska Press Womens spring conference April 27 in Broken Bow. At the state level, she also placed second in the single news or feature release category and in catalogs, manuals and handbooks. The NFPW awards will be presented during the organizations annual conference in Baton Rouge June 29. That octet included the Ogallala-based Lute Family Foundation, which offered up to $5,000 to match donations to the Great Plains Health Care Foundation, the fundraising arm of Great Plains Health of North Platte. Were super-excited, said Executive Director Kathy Bourque, whose husband, Rick, is a Lute Foundation board member. Weve had more (GPH) employee engagement this year than we ever have before, so its building on last years momentum. Funds raised Wednesday will help the GPH Foundation purchase a da Vinci surgical robot for the hospital, Kathy Bourque said. The robot was on display at a recent employee fundraising event at the hospital, she added. Even though North Plattes version of Giving Day is still relatively young, its already become a vital date on the calendar for the Boy Scouts of Americas North Platte-based Buffalo Bill District. Betty Van Boening, finance chair for the 14-county district, said funds raised during the 2018 Giving Day supplied about 5 percent of her offices budget. Among other activities, the district supports a Scout award and supply store in North Platte and the Whispering Cedars camp along Lake Maloney. "Tragically, this community and those surrounding it know all too well these hateful and horrible acts of violence," White House spokesman Judd Deere said in a statement. President Donald Trump had been briefed on the shooting and was in touch with state and local officials, Deere said. STEM is a public charter school with a focus on science, technology, engineering and math. It has more than 1,850 students in kindergarten through 12th grade. Student Christian Paulson told television station KMGH that he was in study hall when he saw kids running and shouting, "School shooter!" "And I'm like, what? Is this real or fake? And then I just went after them," Christian Paulson said. "And apparently, this is all real. And I tried to run with my life, but I'm out of breath." Rocco DeChalk, who lives near the school, told television station KUSA that he saw so many students running past his house that at first he thought it was a gym class. He went outside and saw a teenage boy who had been shot in the back being helped by a teacher and another student. They brought the boy into his kitchen and alerted a police officer, who sent for an ambulance. A roofer at Hammond-based Korellis Roofing, who served in the Iraq War, has won the prestigious Best of the Best award from the National Roofing Contractors Association and was featured on the cover of Professional Roofing magazine, where he was written up in a six-page spread. Brandon Reese, a foreman at Korellis, was named Best of the Best based on selfless service and "extraordinary contributions to the roofing industry," according to the National Roofing Contractors Association. "Out of the thousands of roofers across North America, Brandon won the highest award any roofer can win," Korellis Roofing President Pete Korellis said. "Brandon was honored at the National Roofing Contractors Association Convention in Nashville this year and received a standing ovation from over 700 of his associates." Resese was deployed to Iraq in 2008, where he survived an improvised explosive device while in the gunner's hatch of a vehicle. "The next thing I know, Brandon is back on the gun scanning for targets," his squad leader, now Chief Warrant Officer 3 Jered Stetter, told Professional Roofing magazine. "For a brief moment, I had the realization Brandon had not only taken a blast but took the brunt of the blast to his face mostly percussion and non-injuring and yet there he was protecting me so I could do my job and not sweat the enemy approaching. This is a classic case of the utmost bravery, loyalty and selfless service many on the civilian side will never encounter. If one thing has ever been true, it is that I owe a debt of gratitude to Brandon Reese." Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 The business news you need Get the latest local business news delivered FREE to your inbox weekly. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. The Gary Division of the Chicago Metropolitan Area, which encompasses most of Northwest Indiana, grew by an estimated 576 residents last year in only the second population gain since 2010, according to U.S. Census Bureau estimates. The Gary metropolitan area, which consists of Lake, Porter, Jasper and Newton counties, maintained its long-standing place as the states second-largest metro with 701,386 residents roughly as many as the city of Denver proper and slightly more than live within Boston city limits. All of that growth was driven by people moving to Porter County, as Jasper, Newton and Lake counties all lost population. "Lake County had the states second-largest drop at 355 residents," Indiana University demographer Matt Kinghorn wrote in a report for the Indiana Business Research Center. "For Lake County, this 0.1 percent decline actually represents a significant improvement, as the county averaged a decline of roughly 1,600 residents per year between 2010 and 2017." The population of the Michigan City-LaPorte statistical area, which is just LaPorte County, grew by about 0.1% to just over 110,000 people. HAMMOND The guest speaker at the South Shore Convention and Visitors Authority's annual luncheon Wednesday presented the hospitality industry and its government supporters with a challenging example to follow. George Zimmerman, who headed the state of Michigan's tourism office when it started its "Pure Michigan" campaign in 2008, told attendees of the SSCVA's annual National Travel and Tourism Week event that a successful branding effort can spread from tourism to general economic development. "We are really the brand managers for our places," Zimmerman said. "There is no downside to improving your image." "Pure Michigan" was developed after the state's tourism efforts had hit "rock bottom" in 2005, said Zimmerman, now chairman of the research firm Longwoods International USA. Michigan's hotel occupancy rate ranked 50th in the nation that year. The state doubled its $5.7 million marketing budget, and the advertising agency McCann Detroit was engaged to develop a new campaign. The agency initially came up with the phrase "Find your true north" a line heard in some of the subsequent "Pure Michigan" commercials narrated by Tim Allen but the state asked them to refine that, and "Pure Michigan" was the result. The conductor said he's never met astronaut Ross before. "It'll be an honor and privilege for me to be around him," Muspratt said. Ross, who grew up in Crown Point, said he's looking forward to being part of the program. "I always look forward to hearing some great music," Ross said, during a recent phone conversation. "And it'll be nice to get back to Northwest Indiana." Ross said he'll be giving a brief talk mid-point in the show. He'll be talking about growing up in the Region and his career. Ross grew up in Northwest Indiana in the '50s. "I developed a passion for and a dream to get into our country's space program," he said. He broke many records in his career. Ross said the country's space program has had a great impact on our society as well as other countries of the world. The astronaut said he's happy to be involved in this program and also is eager to experience the wonderful music in store for audience members. "I love music - just about every kind of music," Ross said. "But I have no singing talent whatsoever," he added, laughing. Having grown up in the 1950s and '60s, he said, country music and '60s rock and roll were always favorites of his. In addition to his talk at the event, Ross is expected to greet concertgoers as they enter the venue. The Symphony Chorus will also perform during the concert. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 He said "Mean Streets" in particular was on point for "An altar boy like myself." Scorsese responded that even his upcoming Netflix film, "The Irishman," deals with the same thing, "Trust, loyalty, betrayal and faith." The two said they both find inspiration in the stories of Flannery O'Connor (Scorsese recommended her letters to The Boss) and Springsteen said he's always found that, "the darkness is more interesting than the light." He connected it to other artists he finds interesting, from Hank William, to Bob Dylan and Robert De Niro, who he said has a "two-hour face." "It's, 'What's bothering that guy? Something is bothering that guy,' " Springsteen said. "Those are the things that keep us watching. That's why you can watch Bob De Niro's face for two hours, not 15 minutes. It never gives up its secrets." Scorsese added that audiences are often looking for answers, but the art he goes back is the kind that doesn't provide them, which they both found similar to how they experience faith as they mature. The Roots, the critically acclaimed hip hop group that plays as the house band on NBC's "The Tonight Show" starring Jimmy Fallon, will perform a free show at Hammond's Festival of the Lakes this summer. The jazzy group led by Tariq "Black Thought" Trotter and Ahmir "Questlove" Thompson, known for rapping over live instrumentation, will headline the festival on Saturday, July 20. They are expected to take the stage at about 9 p.m. at the Wolf Lake Pavilion at 2324 Calumet Ave. "I think this will be one of the best artistic live concerts at Festival of the Lakes," Hammond Mayor Thomas McDermott Jr. said. "They're great musicians and entertainers who are known for their live performances. I've been a fan of The Roots for a long time and am excited about this show. This band is very cool with good vibes and very good music. A lot of people know them from the Jimmy Fallon show. They're rap artists, and they're true artists." Current elementary students at Bailly will be relocated to the nearby Glen Park Academy. "This gives us a middle school presence on the south end, in the Glen Park area of Gary, where there is no middle school presence," Morikis said. "It's user-friendly, it's customer service if you will." Morikis expects the specialized middle school programming will make Gary schools more competitive and help the district attract Gary students who might currently be attending a charter school, private school or are enrolled outside the city. "We need to give our kids the same opportunities that exist in other communities and other districts," Morikis said. The district has set a goal of enrolling 719 more students in all grades for the 2019-20 school year compared to the current 4,584 student count, which would increase state and federal funding for the cash-strapped district by more than $7 million. Chelsea Whittington, a Gary public relations consultant and former city spokeswoman, is leading the 90-day enrollment push that will remind parents of current students why Gary schools are best, and highlight all the district's offerings to attract new students to the district. "If you want to be Gary proud and Gary strong, then you need to take another look at the Gary schools," Whittington said. Love 1 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 1 Be the first to know Get local news delivered to your inbox! Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Tracy-MacAulay estimates one mobile unit containing two classrooms ranges from $33,000 to $50,000 each. She said units would likely be placed at three of the district's four schools, including Jane Ball Elementary, Lincoln Elementary and Hanover Central Middle School. That is money that is forever lost to the district, Tracy-MacAulay said in a statement provided to The Times. It is certainly not the preferred learning environment for our students. That prospect doesn't sit well with referendum supporters, including Andy Yakubik. The challenge of not having classrooms is not going away, Yakubik said. In two years, its only going to be worse. A significant opposition voice grew ahead of the Tuesday vote expressing taxation fatigue. The Hanover district passed a 29 cents per $100 assessed valuation operating referendum in 2015 with 54% voting in favor. Several longtime Cedar Lake residents at an April community meeting questioned why their taxes should increase again to foot the bill for residential growth in St. John. MERRILLVILLE A Crown Point man has been sentenced to four years in prison after pleading guilty to driving drunk in a crash that killed a 62-year-old man. Michael H. Hatch, 24, was sentenced to four years, which will be partly served in Lake County Jail, followed by 24 months of probation. The defendant pleaded guilty on a charge of operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated causing death, a level five felony. Four other charges were dropped per a plea agreement. Hatch was driving a 2014 Dodge Avenger at 1:08 a.m. Aug. 24, 2015, in the area of U.S. 30 and Marshall Street in Merrillville when he crashed into the back of a 2007 Honda driven by Pavle Naumoski, according to court documents. The impact of the rear-end crash caused Naumoski's vehicle to go off the roadway, hit a culvert and roll over before coming to a stop on the side of U.S. 30. Naumoski was later pronounced dead at an area hospital. CROWN POINT A Gary man convicted of slashing his cousin's throat and stealing her car and money was sentenced Thursday to 38 years in prison. Vincent E. Banks, 51, denied responsibility for the Feb. 21, 2017, attack at his family's home in the 500 block of Van Buren Street in Gary. Banks' cousin, Tiffany Young, who testified at trial that she has known Banks all her life and recognized his voice during the attack, said she has to live with the scar on her neck every day. She said Banks should have taken a plea agreement instead of forcing her to testify at trial. "This has taken a toll on my family," Young said. "All my life, I've known him to be a criminal," she said. "I don't think he ever needs to get out of jail." Banks' mother, Francis Banks, asked Lake Criminal Court Judge Clarence Murray to have mercy on her son. "I got more years behind me than I got ahead of me," she said. "And at this time, I really need him." Banks told Murray he felt bad his cousin was wounded but claimed he was falsely accused. CROWN POINT A Lake Criminal Court judge on Thursday set a September trial date for a Gary man accused of shooting a pregnant woman and her boyfriend in 2017. Jarod Johnson, 22, was scheduled to stand trial on the charges April 15 but has sought several continuances since allegations surfaced that morning that he, his brother and mother kidnapped a relative of a witness in the 2017 case, shot her and left her for dead in Gary. Johnson, his brother Jaron Johnson, 20; and mother Patricia Carrington, 46, were charged in April in U.S. District Court with kidnapping. They are being held without bond in the federal case. No arraignment date has been set yet in federal court, records show. Jarod Johnson also still faces trial on attempted murder charges in the 2017 shooting. Lake Criminal Court Judge Salvador Vasquez said he granted Johnson's previous requests to continue his trial because attorneys wanted to wait and see what would happen in the new case. "I know there's a lot of moving parts involving you, Johnson," Vasquez said. "We need to move forward." CROWN POINT A Gary woman was charged Wednesday with four felonies alleging she drove a car into her ex-boyfriend's legs and repeatedly hit his home. Kenya A. Polk, 47, is accused of pulling the man out of his car by his shirt, throwing him to the ground and fighting with him. The man told police he was sitting in his car when Polk arrived and told him she wanted him to move out of his home and threatened to "end" him, Lake Criminal Court records allege. A neighbor separated them as they tussled, and the man retreated to his front porch, records say. Polk entered a small red SUV, drove through his yard and struck both of his legs with her front bumper, records allege. The man told police he crawled out of the way as Polk reversed the SUV and struck his house several times, pushing in the front door frame and side of the house. As Polk reversed out of the yard, she allegedly told the man, "I'm going to kill you if you don't move out of Gary," records say. The man's wife and infant child were inside the house when it was struck. Polk was being held on a $50,000 cash bail. Love 0 Funny 7 Wow 5 Sad 7 Angry 5 Sign up for our Crime & Courts newsletter Get the latest in local public safety news with this weekly email. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. A few lucky ducklings were saved by a group of animal lovers in uniform after they found themselves trapped in a storm drain. Police responded at 4:50 p.m. May 4 to a call about several tiny ducks trapped in a stormwater sewer near the intersection of Fairbanks Place and Manor Avenue in Munster, Lt. John Peirick said. Munster Fire Chief Dave Pelc said it's something that commonly happens in the spring, and the fire department is happy to assist tiny, webbed-feet residents in need. As ducklings swim on watery roads, they can easily get sucked into drainage sewers and ditches. They tend to flow the wrong way, Pelc said. It does happen since they're so little, and they waddle through not paying attention. Munster officers and a firefighter worked together to lift the drain cover and pull the ducklings out to safety. Luckily, since it was a stormwater sewer, it wasn't too deep, Pelc said. All worked out for a happy ending. PORTAGE Police responded to three drug overdoses, two which were fatal, in less than 24 hours, the Portage police chief said. The overdoses on Wednesday signaled a deadly batch of narcotics circulating through the Region and police sounded the alarm to Regionites who are struggling or know someone struggling with addiction. We believe there is a lethal batch of heroin out there laced with fentanyl, Portage Police Chief Troy Williams said. This is not a Portage problem, but a regional issue that we all have been fighting for some time. All of the overdoses are believed to be heroin-related and police tested test residue from one of the scenes, which resulted in a positive test for fentanyl, Williams said. If you have a family member or friend that you know, suspect may be, or actively using or battling addiction, it would be wise to alert them to this warning, Williams said. We know that addiction is a struggle to say the least and many families have experienced the pain it causes. We value lives and do not want to see anyone die from this. CHESTERTON Tourism officials from two counties lauded those who make their communities friendly and inviting Wednesday afternoon, which attracts visitors and boosts local economies. But it was Indiana Dunes National Park that was the star of the annual ROSE Awards Luncheon hosted by Indiana Dunes Tourism, which serves Porter County, and LaPorte County's Visit Michigan City LaPorte. The luncheon and awards ceremony was held at Sand Creek Country Club. U.S. Rep. Pete Visclosky, D-Gary, was presented the Indiana Dunes Tourism's Legislator of the Year award for his efforts in changing the name of the former Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore and making it the nation's 61st national park. IDNP Superintendent Paul Labovitz told those at the luncheon that "four sentences" in the U.S. Homeland Security's budget have forever changed the life of the national park and the Region. While Visclosky had tried to get the park's name changed for four or five years, Labovitz said, it took burying the language in a budget bill in February to get it done. I often ask myself: 'What motivates someone to become a police officer?' I don't think when I was 22 and out of college, or anyone who makes that decision, really understands the challenges that lie ahead of us, Reynolds said. The service was also a celebration of law enforcement officers past and present. Among the awards and accolades, Sgt. Jamie Erow introduced the winners of the sheriff department's elementary school essay contest. Kids tend not to have a filter, and they will tell you exactly how it is, sometimes brutally honest, she said. That makes reading these essays each year so much fun and, at times, enlightening. The four winners read their essays aloud to attendees, which were about why school resource officers are important to them. Indiana Lt. Gov. Suzanne Crouch also attended and was the keynote speaker. It is such an honor to be here with you today with so many heroes who lay their lives on the line every single day to keep Hoosiers safe in their homes, in their businesses and in their communities, she said. It is also an honor to pay homage and respect to those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice and laid down their lives to keep us safe. Love 1 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 The right lane of Interstate 65 southbound near Fair Oak Farms will be closed indefinitely following damage from a truck fire Thursday, Indiana State Police said. The left of the two lanes along southbound I-65 has reopened in the area of the fire, but heavy congestion remains along the busy highway. Police said those who want to avoid clogged traffic in the area during rush hour should take alternate routes. To go around the lane closure, drivers can exit near mile marker 230 for Ind. 10 and drive west on Ind. 10 to U.S. 41. Then they can take U.S. 41 south to Ind. 114. Once on Ind. 114, they can travel east and get back onto the interstate, police said. Ryan Clark, of Reynolds, Indiana, said he sat idle in his car for three hours, just a few miles north of the trouble site. He said southbound traffic is backed up to the north passed Ind. 10 in the DeMotte area. The truck fire occurred along the highway between Roselawn and Fair Oaks, police said. Hard to believe, but it seems Donald Trump was an even worse businessman than we thought. Thanks to Times reporters Russ Buettner and Susanne Craig, weve learned that Trumps old tax records show that during his Art of the Deal era, he was pretty much the national champion for financial underachievers. In 1990 and 1991 he had losses of over $250 million a year more than double those of the nearest taxpayers in the I.R.S. information for those years. Well, you cant deny he was a record-breaker. Trump likes to portray his old financial troubles as a temporary product of a recession. But even back then it was pretty apparent that he wasnt really, truly all that great at deal-making. At the time, I called him a financially embattled thousandaire and he took great offense. Try that yourselves, people. See how often you can refer to our president as our world-famous thousandaire. He seems to have more money now, but itll still drive him crazy. Trump would like us to believe all that red ink was actually a canny business strategy. You always wanted to show losses for tax purposes, he tweeted after the Times report, adding that it was sport. Voters in Denver, a city at the forefront of the widening national debate over legalizing marijuana, have become the first in the nation to effectively decriminalize another recreational drug: hallucinogenic mushrooms. The local ballot measure did not quite legalize the mushrooms that contain psilocybin, a naturally occurring psychedelic compound. State and federal regulations would have to change to accomplish that. But the measure made the possession, use or cultivation of the mushrooms by people aged 21 or older the lowest-priority crime for law enforcement in the city of Denver and Denver County. Arrests and prosecutions, already fairly rare, would all but disappear. Results posted by the city as a final unofficial tally late on Wednesday showed the Yes vote won by less than 2,000 ballots. The No vote had led throughout the day, until the last updated count by elections officials. Alton P. Dillard, the elections spokesman, said the passage appeared safe, but the final results would not be certified until May 16. But unless the courts move to enforce the contempt resolution, it will have no teeth, and court action takes time. When Barack Obama was president, House Republicans held Attorney General Eric H. Holder Jr. in contempt of Congress for his failure to provide documents and information related to the so-called Fast and Furious gun trafficking program. But it had little immediate effect. When George W. Bush was president, the House voted to hold his chief of staff, Joshua B. Bolten, and the White House counsel, Harriet E. Miers, in contempt for refusing to cooperate with an investigation into the mass firings of federal prosecutors. Ms. Miers eventually agreed to testify but by that time, Mr. Obama was president. Representative Pramila Jayapal, Democrat of Washington and a chairwoman of the Congressional Progressive Caucus, said she would not be willing to wait that long. This is a really dangerous and unpredecented set of actions that the president is taking, she said. Ms. Jayapal said Democrats decision on whether to begin formal impeachment hearings would become clearer after they have three more data points: whether they get the special counsels report, unredacted; whether Donald F. McGahn II, the former White House counsel, testifies (Mr. Trump is trying to block him from doing so); and whether the special counsel, Robert S. Mueller III, testifies. Theres a few more pieces that we still need to see, she said. The conversations, and Wednesdays Judiciary Committee vote, reflect a sharp escalation of the tensions between Democrats and the White House since the release of the Mueller report. The report found no evidence that Mr. Trump had coordinated or conspired with Russia to influence the 2016 elections. But it did list at least 10 ways in which Mr. Trump may have obstructed the Mueller inquiry. After the reports release, Speaker Nancy Pelosi of California and other top Democrats urged caution on impeachment. Instead, they promised a series of hearings so Americans could judge the evidence that Mr. Mueller had gathered for themselves, and then decide whether the facts warranted impeachment. Ms. Pelosi said that proceeding would have to be bipartisan. But with Mr. Trump trying to keep Congress from gathering the facts, the mood in the caucus has shifted, many Democrats say. [Sign up for Lisa Lerers newsletter and join the conversation around the 2020 presidential race.] While she is hardly a conservative, Ms. Klobuchar has distinguished herself in the campaign by breaking from the new liberal orthodoxy that has dominated the primary. She does not favor a Medicare for all health care system, preferring a more graduated approach; she has called the Green New Deal aspirational; and she has said the country cannot afford to fund free tuition for students at public colleges and universities. During her Fox News appearance, Ms. Klobuchar said she backed legal marijuana, but unlike many of her rivals would leave the decision to individual states rather than endorsing federal legalization. When asked about Attorney General William P. Barr, Ms. Klobuchar backed the recommendation by the House Judiciary Committee to hold him in contempt of Congress for failing to turn over Robert S. Mueller IIIs unredacted report about whether the Trump campaign conspired with Russia to undermine the 2016 presidential election, and if President Trump obstructed justice. She declined to answer whether Mr. Barr should face jail time. He should come before the House, she said. I think youre going to see a lot of pushback and subpoenas, and I think that this administration has to take this seriously. They have to answer the peoples call. For Ms. Klobuchar, the event was an opportunity to reach a broader audience and build support beyond the Democratic base. Since she started her campaign in February, Ms. Klobuchar has struggled to break 5 percent in polling of early primary states. Former Vice President Joseph R. Biden Jr.s entrance into the race further complicates her path, as he travels the country offering a similar appeal that he could win back the Rust Belt voters who cost Hillary Clinton the 2016 election. WASHINGTON The Pentagon has redirected enough money to build 256 miles of barriers along the southwestern border, including 63 miles within six months, the acting defense secretary told lawmakers on Wednesday. The remarks by the secretary, Patrick M. Shanahan, were a major step in President Trumps effort to build his border wall without congressional authorization since he declared a national emergency and took other measures to redirect funds in February. They came the same day immigration officials reported that illegal border crossings continued to surge in April, with the highest number of monthly arrests since 2007. [For more stories about decision-making inside the Pentagon, sign up for the weekly At War newsletter.] Mr. Trumps efforts to divert funds to build the barriers are facing challenges in court, and have met fierce resistance from Democrats and some Republicans in Congress. Democrats have also expressed skepticism about a White House request for billions of dollars more in enforcement efforts at the border. The vice president of Venezuelas opposition-controlled National Assembly was detained by intelligence officers in the capital on Wednesday night, the latest sign of crackdown following a failed call for a military uprising against President Nicolas Maduro last week. The vice president, Edgar Zambrano, was surrounded by intelligence officers after leaving his partys headquarters in the capital, Caracas, he said on Twitter. He was towed away in his car after refusing to leave his vehicle, according to Mr. Zambrano and witnesses. A member of the moderate Democratic Action opposition party, Mr. Zambrano joined the head of the National Assembly, Juan Guaido, and a few dozen dissident soldiers last week outside a military base as Mr. Guaido tried to take the base and set off a national rebellion. The call to oust Mr. Maduro failed to convince the military to switch sides en masse, however. Instead, clashes broke out across Caracas between demonstrators and forces loyal to Mr. Maduro, injuring dozens and killing five across the country before Venezuela largely returned to its recent status quo: a protracted political standoff as the country slid into further shortages of food, medicine and electricity. For generations Americans tended to see art museums as alternatives to crass everyday life. Like libraries, they were for learning; like churches, for reflection. You went to them for a hit of Beauty and a lesson in eternal values, embodied in relics of the past donated by civic-minded angels. You probably didnt know and most museums werent going to tell you that many of those relics were stolen goods. Or that more than a few donor-angels were plutocrats trying to scrub their cash clean with art. Or that the values embodied in beautiful things were often, if closely examined, abhorrent. Today, were more alert to these ethical flaws, as several recent protests against museums show, though we still have a habit of trusting our cultural institutions, museums and universities among them, to be basically right-thinking. At moments of political crisis and moral confusion we look to them to justify our trust. The 1960s was such a moment. At least early in that decade we had hopes that universities would take a principled stand on evils war, racism that were burning the country up. But when it became clear that our figurehead schools were, in fact, hard-wired into the machinery that fueled the conflict in Vietnam and perpetuated global apartheid, faith was shattered and has never really been restored. Our guide to new art shows and some that will be closing soon. SIAH ARMAJANI: FOLLOW THIS LINE at the Met Breuer (through June 2). Born in Iran, Armajani has been living in the United States since 1960. This retrospective ranges from work he did as a teenage activist in Tehran to models of the many public sculptures he has produced across America over the past five decades. It introduces us to a sharp social thinker, a wry (and increasingly melancholic) metaphysician, a plain-style visual poet and, above all, an artist-ethicist. Bridge Over Tree, Armajanis wonderful large-scale sculpture presented by Public Art Fund at Brooklyn Bridge Park (on the Empire Fulton Ferry Lawn through Sept. 29) to coincide with the Met show, is well timed for our present era of sundering moral confusion and offers ways forward from it. (Holland Cotter) 212-731-1675, metmuseum.org ARTISTS RESPOND: AMERICAN ART AND THE VIETNAM WAR, 1965-1975 (through Aug. 18) and TIFFANY CHUNG: VIETNAM, PAST IS PROLOGUE (through Sept. 2) at Smithsonian American Art Museum in Washington. Everything in Artists Respond, a big, inspiriting blast of a historical survey, dates from a time when the United States was losing its soul, and its artists some, anyway were trying to save theirs by denouncing a racist war. Figures well known for their politically hard-hitting work Judith Bernstein, Leon Golub, Hans Haacke, Peter Saul, Nancy Spero are here in strength. But so are others, like Dan Flavin and Donald Judd and Barnett Newman, seldom associated with visual activism. Concurrent with the survey is a smaller, fine-tuned show by a contemporary Vietnamese-born artist, Tiffany Chung; it views the war through the eyes of people on the receiving end of aggression. (Cotter) 202-663-7970, americanart.si.edu MATTHEW BARNEY: REDOUBT at Yale University Art Gallery in New Haven (through June 16). The wildly innovative sculptor and filmmaker, Yale class of 1989, heads back to the halls of ivy to present his first major project since the six-hour excremental eruption of River of Fundament. The exhibition shows Barney in a lighter, nimbler mode than he has displayed in years. The new film Redoubt, shot in his home state of Idaho, riffs on the myth of Diana and Actaeon; the goddess, here, is an NRA-approved sharpshooter, while the doomed voyeur is the artist himself, making plein-air etchings of Diana and her attendants. Related copper etchings appear in the show, and Barney has electroplated them over varying times, encrusting them with weird metal nodules. Redoubt lacks the operatic grandeur some of Barneys fanboys prefer. But its the most emancipated work of his career, and it should make a star of Eleanor Bauer, the dancer and choreographer whom he has entrusted with the films most beautiful movement sequences. The film runs about two hours and screens on Saturday afternoons and on select weekdays; check the website for times. (Jason Farago) 203-432-0600, artgallery.yale.edu THE JIM HENSON EXHIBITION at the Museum of the Moving Image (ongoing). The rainbow connection has been established in Astoria, Queens, where this museum has opened a new permanent wing devoted to the career of Americas great puppeteer, who was born in Mississippi in 1936 and died, too young, in 1990. Henson began presenting the short TV program Sam and Friends before he was out of his teens; one of its characters, the soft-faced Kermit, was fashioned from his mothers old coat and would not mature into a frog for more than a decade. The influence of early variety television, with its succession of skits and songs, runs through Sesame Street and The Muppet Show, though Henson also spent the late 1960s crafting peace-and-love documentaries and prototyping a psychedelic nightclub. Young visitors will delight in seeing Big Bird, Elmo, Miss Piggy and the Swedish Chef; adults can dig deep into sketches and storyboards and rediscover some old friends. (Farago) 718-784-0077, movingimage.us Ancient treasures pillaged from conflict zones in the Middle East are being offered for sale on Facebook, researchers say, including items that may have been looted by Islamic State militants. Facebook groups advertising the items grew rapidly during the upheaval of the Arab Spring and the ensuing wars, which created unprecedented opportunities for traffickers, said Amr Al-Azm, a professor of Middle East history and anthropology at Shawnee State University in Ohio and a former antiquities official in Syria. He has monitored the trade for years along with his colleagues at the Athar Project, named for the Arabic word for antiquities. At the same time, Dr. Al-Azm said, social media lowered the barriers to entry to the marketplace. Now there are at least 90 Facebook groups, most in Arabic, connected to the illegal trade in Middle Eastern antiquities, with tens of thousands of members, he said. They often post items or inquiries in the group, then take the discussion into chat or WhatsApp messaging, making it difficult to track. Some users circulate requests for certain types of items, providing an incentive for traffickers to produce them, a scenario that Dr. Al-Azm called loot to order. There was no precedent for the Wu-Tang Clan insurgency in the early and mid-1990s, and, if were being honest, theres been nothing quite like it since. Its success was a challenge to hip-hops prevailing business model, its aesthetic principles and its relationship to emotion. The group RZA, GZA, Ol Dirty Bastard, Method Man, Inspectah Deck, Raekwon, Ghostface Killah, U-God, Masta Killa and sometimes Cappadonna was a collection of performers who could be fantastical superheroes or of-the-soil narrators, often both at once. And as a collective, they had an almost mystical veneer. In Wu-Tang Clan: Of Mics and Men, an intimate four-part docuseries directed by the documentarian and former music journalist Sacha Jenkins debuting on Showtime Friday, they are human-scaled determined, gifted, anxious, fallible. It is less a film about the groups sui generis success and more about how individuals use art as a lifeline. For the first half, at least, this is a tale of conquest. The Wu-Tang Clan was a coat of armor, a group identity rooted in martial-arts mythos that reimagined hip-hop as a site of wild mystery and grungy mien. Especially in the period from its 1993 debut album Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers) through the 1997 follow-up Wu-Tang Forever, with several solo releases in between it expanded the genres sense of possibility more than any of its peers, all while muscling it toward the pop mainstream. Fight over Mueller report escalates The House Judiciary Committee on Wednesday recommended holding Attorney General William Barr in contempt for failing to provide an unredacted version of the special counsels report and its underlying evidence to Congress. The 24-to-16 vote, along party lines, came hours after President Trump asserted executive privilege to shield the report. The Justice Department, which asked the president to step in, called the vote politically motivated and unnecessary. It seems inevitable that the competing claims will have to be settled in the courts. We are now in a constitutional crisis, said Representative Jerrold Nadler of New York, the Judiciary Committee chairman. Call it CSI: Goteborg. In Sweden, Volvo has dispatched its own crash-scene investigators since the early 1970s. Its Traffic Accident Research Team responds 24 hours a day to wrecks within an hours drive of the companys Goteborg headquarters, alerted by the Volvo On Call system (similar to OnStar from General Motors). The automaker is not alone in sending investigators to crash sites, but it pioneered the practice. Today, a number of manufacturers take a similar approach to glean valuable real-world information on what happens to vehicles and their occupants after a crash. Thomas Broberg, senior safety adviser at Volvo Cars, makes certain that team members do not disturb any emergency responders or police work. Well help if needed, Mr. Broberg said. Then they spring into action once critical rescue work is done, he added. Pictures are taken, measurements are made, and impact points of the vehicles are inspected. Good Thursday. (Want this by email? Sign up here.) Ubers steadily deflating I.P.O. The ride-hailing companys market debut, which is set for tomorrow, has become an exercise in dialing back expectations, write Michael de la Merced and Mike Isaac of the NYT. Ubers I.P.O. may now value it at only $86 billion based on a share price of $47. According to unidentified sources, the company plans to price its offering at or below the midpoint of its announced range: $44 to $50. That would be well below the $100 billion that Uber had forecast to some of its investors, Mr. de la Merced and Mr. Isaac write. Last year, some bankers floated a potential $120 billion valuation for the company. It would still be valued above the $76 billion that it was appraised at in its most recent private fund-raising last August. Why the caution? The sources blame market turbulence in the face of recent U.S.-China trade tensions and the performance of Lyft, the rival whose shares have sunk since its I.P.O. in March. Facebook pushed back Thursday after Chris Hughes, a billionaire co-founder of the company, argued in a New York Times Op-Ed essay that the company should be broken up and regulated. Facebook accepts that with success comes accountability, Nick Clegg, Facebooks vice president for global affairs and communication, wrote in a statement. But you dont enforce accountability by calling for the breakup of a successful American company. The statement followed a lengthy Op-Ed by Mr. Hughes published online Thursday morning arguing that the social media giant be subjected to extensive government oversight and separated into multiple companies, notably by spinning off the photo-sharing app Instagram and the messenger service WhatsApp. The essay will appear in print on Sunday. Mr. Hughes was a co-founder of Facebook with Mark Zuckerberg 15 years ago when they were undergraduates at Harvard. He left the company in 2007 to work with the Obama campaign and more recently has focused on the issue of income inequality. In the essay, he said repeatedly that Mr. Zuckerberg is a good, kind person but simply has too much power for any one individual. The resurgence of trade tensions between the United States and China, along with contradictory color commentary from President Trump, whipsawed stock markets again Thursday. The S&P 500 notched its fourth straight daily decline, though the benchmark index pared its worst losses after President Trump suggested a trade deal could still be within reach, adding that he had received a beautiful letter from Chinese President Xi Jinping and may speak to Chinese leader on the phone. The comments helped the S&P 500 regain some ground, to close down 0.3 percent Thursday, after having fallen as much as 1.5 percent earlier in the day. The benchmark index has dropped 2.5 percent this week and is on course for its worst weekly performance of the year. This is the worst stretch for stocks since early March, when an employment report showing a sharp slowdown in hiring prompted a growth scare and sent stocks down for five consecutive days. Entrants into the American market, for instance, will need to formulate bids on projects costing hundreds of millions of dollars, while navigating the regulatory regimes of different states and figuring out how to tap into their often aging power grids. Would-be developers are also being pushed by state governments to help local economies by setting up facilities and using local suppliers, who may lack experience in the new industry. The complexities of the process are significant, said R.J. Arsenault, managing director for clean energy at FTI Consulting. Orsted and other companies with big renewable ambitions are also likely to find themselves up against oil giants like Royal Dutch Shell and BP, which are investing in renewable energy and have the firepower to push their way into markets. Analysts say that if Orsted is successful, it could be a prototype of a new form of energy company built for the renewable age with the scale needed to make a significant contribution to reducing the greenhouse gas emissions blamed for climate change. Because of their head start, Orsted managed to get into a model that is a future model for all these companies, said Sam Arie, a utility analyst at the investment bank UBS in London. Give this trend a couple of years, and you can see the potential for an entirely new class of company to emerge the very large global wind and solar majors. When Mr. Poulsen, who had worked in various fields, including private equity, and at Lego, the Danish toymaker, took over at Orsted in 2012, the company was financially troubled because of bad bets on fossil fuels. It was then known as Dong Energy, an acronym for Danish oil and gas that reflected its focus on petroleum production and coal-fired power plants. Mr. Sanchez, who came to the United States in 1985 at the age of 18, has owned a Colombian restaurant, Los Arrieros in Jackson Heights, for more than two decades. (Colombians outnumber Bolivians in the city by more than 20 to one.) In October, he took over this Woodside storefront and renamed it Puerta del Sol, after the ancient megalithic gate in the Tiwanaku ruins outside La Paz, carved out of one great slab of andesite. Magda Riveros, the chef, makes food that is unfussy and dangerously ample. A broad flat steak comes with a drape of Colombian white cheese almost equal to it in dimensions, along with giant fava beans, wrinkly skinned and chewy, and a cob of mote (hominy), its dense kernels the size of back molars and steadfastly unsweet. A meal may begin with saltenas, which look like grand empanadas, fat and upright, with a thick, nubbly braid on top. But their insides reveal an affinity to Chinese xiao long bao: The dough, tinged with sugar and gilded by egg wash, is wrapped around ice-cream scoops of chilled jigote a soup-stew of coarsely chopped top round or chicken, loaded with olives, raisins and potatoes which, as the saltena bakes, starts to seethe. For charquekan, beef is hung to dry for three days, then boiled and struck with a mallet until it frays. Crisped in a pan, the strands emerge as a kind of ossified tumbleweed of meat, shattering and salty. Its surrounded by triangles of creamy Colombian white cheese, a pale shoulder of potato and two hard-boiled eggs, waiting to be peeled. It contains the most common, repetitive bass line (the low bum, bum, bum, bum at the beginning) from the 17th century, according to Ms. Clark. Although this piece is famous, she said, there are so many pieces built on the same underlying harmonic structure, at the time called a Romanesca as a pattern. Pachelbel Rant by the comedian Rob Paravonian, and 4 Chords by the comedy band Axis of Awesome, highlight dozens of recognizable songs with the same foundation as Canon in D including music by Lady Gaga, Bob Marley, John Lennon, U2, the Spice Girls and Green Day. (Punk music is a joke; its really just baroque, Mr. Paravonian said in the performance.) The way its set up is that theres a repeated pattern that happens in the bass line you hear that, initially, by itself without the violins, and that unit is repeated 28 times in the whole piece and then you hear the violins come in one after another, Ms. Clark said. The reason its called a canon is because of what the three violins do in the upper voices: they play in a round. (Just as youd hear in Three Blind Mice or Frere Jacques.) The resulting piece, alternating between fast and slow notes, two- and four-measure units, major and minor chords, is filled with complex harmonies that sound straightforward and simple. As with a lot of music in the baroque period, Ms. Clark said, once that range was established, the score could be amenable to many other instruments. Pachelbels Canon was originally written for three violins, she explained, but it can easily be arranged for a string quartet or the organ, keyboard and synthesizers, all creating a different sound depending on the occasion. Musically, it just happens to be a piece that you can do pretty easily in almost any configuration you have, said Mr. Fehleisen, who has played hundreds of New York weddings since the 1970s. You can do a million things with it. Its also perfectly paced for walking down the aisle, Ms. Clark said, and it feels timeless because theres no text. Youre not guided to one single way of thinking about the piece, so it becomes meaningful for every individual or pair. Pushing through the crowd, thousands of protesters are packed tight, trying to catch a glimpse. [protesters cheering] Its a train bringing thousands more protesters from all around the country. They are the latest arrivals in a grassroots revolution against authoritarian rule. This is Sudan. In April, the people here forced out a dictator, but now, the fight for real change has only just begun. One minute. Where is your smile? [laughing] Just for me. Im Ben Solomon. The capital is exploding with energy part protest, part party. It reminded me of the Arab Spring when millions rose up to demand freedom and democracy. For a while, hope filled the air and strongmen fell. But the same, old oppressive forces remained in place. Protesters here understand this. I came to ask, can their revolution be any different? How do you think Sudanese have learned from other revolutions before it? But hundreds of activists were arrested and dozens were killed when people first took to the streets in December. They confronted a police state led by this man: Omar al-Bashir. He was the architect of a genocide in Darfur and harbored terrorists like Osama bin Laden. For 30 years, he ruled with an iron fist. The country suffered through wars and famine. It was a hike in the price of bread that finally pushed them over the edge. After months of protests, the military stepped in and deposed Bashir, but the generals, who people see as a part of the same regime, put themselves in charge of the country. Thats why the protesters here wont leave the streets. Theyre worried that if they did, nothing would change. When will you leave? Like, what will be enough for you to go? The S.P.A. is the Sudanese Professionals Association lawyers, engineers and doctors. They are the ones who have been organizing the protests, and their leadership is a part of a coalition that is now negotiating with the generals on behalf of the masses. They are calling for a civilian-led governing council that can set a path to democracy. Publicly, the military is saying theyll give up some power. This is Lt. Gen. Shams Eddin al-Kabbashi, spokesman for the military council. Do you trust the military right now? I cant say I trust the military. My main trust is to the streets, of course. Mohammad Naji is an official spokesman for the S.P.A. Hes worried that the military is only saying this to end the demonstrations. Now is the critical moment, and now we will see if they are true to what they have said or not. On this night, after a round of negotiations, people came out hoping to hear good news. But the military had not conceded. The political battle is looking messier than the battle on the street. As the country waits, the mood is getting tense. No, no. O.K., O.K. stop. Ultimately, the generals wield the power. By staying in the street for this long, the protesters have kept up the pressure. The question now how long can they sustain this? Does your school have a student newspaper? If so, do you read it or write for it? What purpose do you think it serves in your school? If not, do you wish your school had one? Why or why not? Do students have free rein to write what they want in your school newspaper? Should they? Recently, student journalists found themselves at odds with their school district after writing an article about an 18-year-old student who makes her own pornographic videos. The Times reports: The Bear Creek High School newspaper has profiled notable students athletes, budding entrepreneurs, academic whizzes without incident for decades. But an article that appeared Friday in The Bruin Voice caused an uproar over free speech, feminism and student journalism, all before it was even published. The 18-year-old subject is a senior at the school in Stockton, Calif., one of more than 2,100 students. She also makes her own pornographic videos. The story about the story follows a pattern similar to other clashes between student journalists and school boards. The Lodi Unified School District, after learning about the planned profile, demanded last month that it be turned over for review before appearing online and in print. The attempted oversight drew far more attention than the article probably would have. The district said the piece might violate a state rule that it said prevented publications at public schools from featuring obscenity, defamation and incitement, and it threatened to fire Katherine Duffel, the papers longtime faculty adviser. In articles, columns, television programs and social media posts, the standoff over an unpublished story became either a symbol of censorship and womens rights, or the loss of traditional values and a school districts responsibility to protect young students from harmful content. In a July 1, 2018 article Hard News. Angry Administration. Teenage Journalists Know What Its Like, Jaclyn Peiser writes about more conflicts like the one at Bear Creek High School: High schools across the country have pushed back this year against student journalists who have reported on sensitive subjects, like the reaction to school shootings and adolescent sexuality. In Orange County, Calif., a principal condemned a school publication for a special issue that focused on teenage relationships, calling it disrespectful and sensationalistic. In a town roughly 20 miles southwest of Salt Lake City, the administration deactivated a schools news website after student journalists posted an investigative article examining the mysterious dismissal of a history teacher. And in a suburb of Dallas, a principal forbade the publication of an opinion piece critical of the administration for scheduling events during the National School Walkout protest. Since 1988, when the Supreme Court ruled that a Missouri school district had acted lawfully in removing a two-page spread on divorce and teenage pregnancy from a student newspaper, administrators have been able to censor work in school publications that they consider poorly written or inconsistent with the shared values of a civilized social order. Fourteen states have laws in place meant to safeguard school publications from interference. The killing of the opinion piece on the National School Walkout protest was the third instance of conflict between John Burdett, the principal of Prosper High School in Prosper, Tex., and the schools news publication, Eagle Nation Online. The first skirmish concerned an article about the cancellation of movie day, a school tradition allowing the class that had raised the most money for a cancer charity to see a movie during school hours. Mr. Burdett disputed the articles take on the cancellation and ordered the faculty adviser, Lori Oglesbee-Petter, to scrub it from the site. The article goes on to detail several more incidents: In Herriman, Utah, an enterprising school publication ran into trouble after digging into a subject that administrators at Herriman High School had tried to keep secret: the reason for the dismissal of a popular history teacher. Conor Spahr, 18, spent more than a month looking into why the teacher had stopped showing up for his classes last fall. After reviewing public records and interviewing students and teachers, Mr. Spahr reported in The Herriman Telegraph that the teacher was sending highly inappropriate messages to a female student, according to an unnamed person described in the article as a source. The morning after the article went live, it was gone. At first I thought it was a glitch or something, Mr. Spahr said. But once we saw the entire website was down, we knew something was happening. Mr. Spahr and Max Gordon, The Telegraphs 18-year-old former editor in chief, created a new website The Herriman Telegram and republished the article. In January, news outlets in Utah reported that the teacher was under police investigation on allegations that he had sent inappropriate text messages to a minor. In a statement, the Jordan School District, which includes Herriman High School, said it encourages thought-provoking, informative and accurate reporting of all stories in our school newspapers. It isnt only investigative reporting or stories on protests that have pitted student journalists against educators in recent months. Editors and reporters at San Juan Hills High School in San Juan Capistrano, Calif., caused a furor in March with a special issue of The Express called Relationships & Sex. We had five anonymous stories featuring personal experiences of students from diverse backgrounds and diverse relationships and sexual experiences, said Olivia Fu, 18, formerly a co-editor in chief of The Express. They opened up about what it was like for them in relationships in high school. In Long-Term, a girl describes ending up in an emotionally abusive relationship with a boy. In Waiting Until Marriage, a heterosexual couple explains why they have decided to abstain from sex. In Gay, a male student tells of ending up at a motel room for a sexual encounter with two partners. Pregnancy Scare goes into the fears of a sexually active female student, and Bisexual presents a male student who says, I used to hate myself for my sexuality. The stories were written by Express staff members, who gave aliases to the students they interviewed. In an email to parents, the schools principal, Jennifer Smalley, apologized for the shock and dismay you felt when you opened up the paper. The publications faculty adviser, Bill Kaiser, was put on paid leave. Out of concern for him, the students briefly took down the articles. Students, read the entire article, then tell us: What is your reaction to the conflicts between student journalists and school administrators that you read about? Which of these instances of censorship, if any, were justified and why? Since the 1988 Hazelwood Sch. Dist. v. Kuhlmeier decision, administrators have been able to censor work in school publications that they consider poorly written or inconsistent with the shared values of a civilized social order. Do you think this ruling is fair? Should schools be allowed to censor student newspapers to protect students or the schools reputation? Or should student journalists have free rein to write about whatever they want? In your opinion, are there any topics that should be off limits in school newspapers? If so, which ones and why? If not, why not? For example, should these publications be allowed to criticize the school administration, investigate teachers or write about sensitive subjects like teenage sexuality and school shootings? Why or why not? Has your school ever faced a similar crisis in which students were prevented by school administrators from saying or writing something? In your opinion, was this move necessary to protect students? Or did it cross the line into stifling free speech? Britt Masback of Portland, Ore., one of the winners of our 2018 Summer Reading Contest, wrote about the July article: Journalism is most effective when it informs and challenges its readers and expresses divergent opinions. I would argue that this is even more important among teens, who are in the throes of exploring issues and developing values. Todays student newspapers offer a much-needed alternative to the adult-centric media, giving teens the opportunity to cover topics relevant to them. In 2018, no issue has provoked more youth expression (and youth activism) than the tragic shootings on school campuses. School papers have provided a needed outlet for the expression of student angst about shootings. Do you agree that student newspapers offer a much-needed alternative to the adult-centric media, giving teens the opportunity to cover topics relevant to them? In your opinion, how important is it for teenagers to have a place to read and write about the issues that matter to them? Where do you go to express yourself or hear from people your age? How would you feel if you knew that space was controlled by adults? Before becoming famous for her short stories of comedic interfamilial strife and everyday adversities subtly imbued with issues of race and class, Ms. Welty used the camera as her vehicle to preserve life, ever-fleeting with all its joys, complexities and hardships, in the 1930s. Many of these photos were featured in Photographs, originally published in 1989, and recently reissued by the University Press of Mississippi. A native of Jackson, Miss., Ms. Welty briefly left the South to attend the University of Wisconsin at Madison and, later, business school at Columbia University. She returned in 1931 to work at Jacksons local radio station and contribute society columns to The Commercial Appeal in Memphis. But it was in her stint as a junior publicity agent for the Works Progress Administration, which itself was famed for dispatching some of the countrys best photographers and writers to chronicle New Deal America, that she flourished as a photographer. Ms. Welty captured her fellow Mississippians in their daily routines, with each frame evoking the complications of everyday life, like children hauling unwieldy blocks of ice to dinner or a fatigued-looking nurse outside a clinic. The following report compiles all significant security incidents confirmed by New York Times reporters throughout Afghanistan from the past seven days. It is necessarily incomplete as many local officials refuse to confirm casualty information. The report includes government claims of insurgent casualty figures, but in most cases these cannot be independently verified by The Times. Similarly, the reports do not include Taliban claims for their attacks on the government unless they can be verified. Both sides routinely inflate casualty totals for their opponents. At least 80 pro-government forces and 47 civilians were killed in Afghanistan during the past week. While American and Taliban negotiators met for their sixth session of peace talks in Doha, there was no sign that the Taliban were letting up on the tempo of violence. Nor did they seem to be adhering to their pledge to avoid civilian casualties during the holy month of Ramadan, which began Monday, although there were also civilian deaths blamed on C.I.A.-backed militia groups. [Read the Afghan War Casualty Report from previous weeks.] May 9 Badakhshan Province: two soldiers killed In the Safid Yalor area of Raghistan District, the Taliban ambushed the Third Border Battalion commander for Khwahan District, killing him and one of his bodyguards and wounding three others. May 9 Logar Province: four local police officers killed The Taliban attacked local police checkpoints in the Puli-Matani area of Pul Alam, the provincial capital, killing four and wounding three others. Bald and bearded, he dresses so unassumingly that he seems to be hiding in plain sight. When I first met him the day before, at the Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit, where he had a solo show, he was clearly suspicious he started out asking me the questions and not the other way around. But he warmed up when I described to him how, earlier that day, after having flown in from New York, I drove past my own childhood home in the Detroit suburbs. A dreamy smile stretched across his face. So youre telling me that when you come back, you let yourself go back into the past, and you remember? he asked. And you can see yourself, in your mind, playing in that house? This was how he felt about Heidelberg. Its a special street, he said. Its a special place that that I cant leave. I can hear it talking to me. [Should art be a battleground for social justice?] Even as Detroit emptied out over the decades, Guyton stayed put, returning to the scene of his childhood with a compulsory repetition. He was unwilling to watch the street he loved so much crumble into nothing. As more and more families left, he took what remained, the odd leftovers, the detritus of neglect, and reconfigured all of it into his sculptures and paintings and installations, holding up a kind of cracked mirror to the street and everything that had been lost there. Taken as a whole, the project is a reverse memento mori an assertion of life, a work that announces Im still here, even as everyone else seemed to look away. Hi. Im Rob Letterman, director of Pokemon Detective Pikachu. So this is the scene where Tim Goodman, played by Justice Smith, meets Detective Pikachu for the first time. And its a really tricky scene because we need to explain to the audience that Pokemon dont speak. And on top of that, Pikachu assumes no one can understand him. And he has to also learn that Tim can understand him while Tim is learning that Pikachu can talk. So its a really tricky scene to set up in a very short amount of time because these Aipom, which are outside and have been exposed to this gas that turns them from adorable to vicious, are about to come in. So thats what this moment is right here, plus a lot of funny from Ryan Reynolds. I know you cant understand me, but put down the stapler or I will electrocute you. The lighting setup of the scene is meant to be this sort of film noir, neo-noir look. But we mixed it with this kind of Blade Runner, Neo Tokyo look. You can understand me! Ive been so lonely. And in this moment Im going to state the obvious, but it is really incredible Justice Smith is on the day, theres nothing there. There are tennis balls. Theres puppets. Theres me. Hes giving a performance thats really complicated but has to feel natural, has to feel funny. Its very physical. His eye lines are really complicated. We have laser light going around for him to follow. Theres wires on him throwing him into chairs. Hes got to still react with Pikachu. Hes getting manhandled by three stuntmen there who were pushing him around. And then we had to erase it all. Its amazing. And he still gives this surprisingly grounded performance in this very bizarre world of Detective Pikachu. Come on, kid. Lets move. Aah! The River and the Wall comes on as innocent and glossy as a travelogue, but its scenic delights are the sugar coating on a passionate and spectacularly photographed political message. Traveling 1,200 miles along the Rio Grande, from El Paso to the Gulf of Mexico, the director, Ben Masters, and four friends slowly and genially build an ecologically devastating case against the construction of President Trumps much-ballyhooed border wall. Taking to mountain bikes, horses and canoes, this hardy group comprising conservationists, an ornithologist, a river guide and a National Geographic explorer is tested by treacherous terrain and dangerous river currents. The adventurers aim to document the possible impact of the proposed barrier on the regions wildlife and residents; but a more personal, pro-immigration note is struck when two team members recall the emotional toll of growing up with undocumented parents. In his remarkable new documentary, the veteran filmmaker Nicolas Brown interviews prominent ecologists who study biodiversity specifically, how one species can affect an entire ecosystem. Even if the film, The Serengeti Rules, were merely presenting credible research clearly, it would still be providing invaluable insight into the natural world at a time when as many as one million species face the threat of extinction. But Browns ambitions extend beyond summarizing data. Instead, his spectacular sequences in the tide pools of the Pacific Northwest, in Amazon rain forests and in Tanzanias Serengeti region, among other places reproduce the circumstances of original studies, providing visual demonstrations of what makes environments thrive, falter or rebound. In one such sequence, Brown observes Aleutian kelp forests, recreating a study by the ecologist Jim Estes. As Estes recounts his observations of sea otters in their uninterrupted habitat, the camera dives beneath choppy waves to discover sea urchins purpling the rocks and iridescent fish flitting in schools around the up-climbing kelp. Woody Allens latest movie, A Rainy Day in New York, a romantic comedy starring Timothee Chalamet and Elle Fanning, was dropped by Amazon last year. There is no sign it will be released in the United States. In Europe, its another story. The film will reach theaters in Italy on Oct. 3, Stefano Massenzi, head of acquisitions and business affairs at the Italian distributor Lucky Red, said in a telephone interview. It will appear the following day in Spain, said Adolfo Blanco, chief executive of A Contracorriente Films, its distributor there. It is also being released in Germany and Austria, a spokeswoman for the distributor Filmwelt/NFP said in a telephone interview. The firm would not comment further, but Christopher Ott, its managing director, told the left-leaning daily Suddeutsche Zeitung on Tuesday that he was pleased to be part of the family of distributors bringing the film to Europe, China, Japan, South Korea, Russia and South America. He is one of the outstanding directors of our time, Ott said. [What you need to know to start the day: Get New York Today in your inbox.] Anna Sorokin, the fake German heiress who swindled her way into Manhattans elite party circles, was sentenced on Thursday to four to 12 years in prison for bilking hotels, banks and a private jet operator out of hundreds of thousands of dollars. The sentencing capped a case of a young grifter who spun her tale with brazen flair. Ms. Sorokin, who used the name Anna Delvey, wore designer clothes, lived in boutique hotels, dined in expensive restaurants and lured investors for a $40 million private club all without a penny to her name. I am stunned by the depth of the defendants deception, Justice Diane Kiesel said in handing down the sentence in State Supreme Court in Manhattan. She added that Ms. Sorokin was blinded by the glitter and glamour of New York City. Ms. Sorokin, 28, was convicted last month of most of the charges against her. She has been held on Rikers Island since October 2017. [What you need to know to start the day: Get New York Today in your inbox.] In the Bronx, a man was choked from behind as an officer frog-marched him to a squad car. In Manhattan, a detective responding to a noise complaint wrapped his arm around a mans neck and squeezed for 22 seconds. And in Brooklyn, a plainclothes officer pinned an 18-year-old up against a lamp post, his forearm choking off the teenagers air supply while he was patted down. The incidents all happened in the last three years, after the Police Department spent $35 million to retrain patrol officers not to employ strangleholds in the wake of the death of Eric Garner. Records of complaints show the banned holds are still being used by some officers, and only a tiny fraction of officers accused of chokeholds have been found guilty and have faced discipline. When they do, the punishment meted out has been remedial training and the loss of vacation time. None have been fired. [What you need to know to start the day: Get New York Today in your inbox.] Noah Abdullah hasnt immunized his 4-year-old son, Michael, saying that hed read vaccines might be no good and that hed rather do natural things to strengthen his childs immune system. I need to see more information before I start shooting him up with stuff, Mr. Abdullah said. Donna Mosley said her 3-year-old grandson also did not have his vaccinations, though she wishes he did. His mother is afraid the shots could cause autism, she said, and his fathers Muslim beliefs have made him totally against it. The two boys attend Sister Clara Muhammad Elementary School in Harlem, a small school where most children had a religious exemption to immunization in the last school year, according to city health department data. As the measles outbreak deepens in New York City, health authorities have been focusing on schools affiliated with ultra-Orthodox Judaism, because those are the only city schools within which measles transmission has occurred so far. But immunization data, reported annually by every school to the state, suggests that reluctance to vaccinate in New York is much more widespread . Lawmakers in Washington are trying to get the first. My colleagues got some of the second. The Timess Susanne Craig and Russ Buettner obtained 10 years worth of tax information contained in Mr. Trumps returns from a person who had legal access to them, but whose identity The Times has not disclosed. Mr. Trump reported $1.17 billion in losses from his core businesses from 1985 through 1994, according to the information. Year after year, he appears to have lost more money than nearly any other individual American taxpayer. The numb ers contradict the narrative of business success and deal-making star power that he later used to help propel himself into the White House. [A decade in the red: Mr. Trumps tax figures show over $1 billion in business losses.] Heres a glimpse of what he was up to during that decade: 1985: His core businesses lost $46.1 million Mr. Trump appeared on the Forbes rich list for the first time. His estimated net worth, according to the magazine, was $600 million, and included the real estate empire that his father, Fred Trump, still owned. Last month, Joe Biden called me to talk about his conduct during Clarence Thomass Supreme Court confirmation hearings in 1991. There has been a lot of discussion recently about whether he has offered me the right words. Given the #MeToo movement and Mr. Bidens bid for the presidency, its understandable why his role in the hearings is being debated anew. If the Senate Judiciary Committee, led then by Mr. Biden, had done its job and held a hearing that showed that its members understood the seriousness of sexual harassment and other forms of sexual violence, the cultural shift we saw in 2017 after #MeToo might have begun in 1991 with the support of the government. If the government had shown that it would treat survivors with dignity and listen to women, it could have had a ripple effect. People agitating for change would have been operating from a position of strength. It could have given institutions like the military, the Department of Education and the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission greater license to take more decisive action to end the scourge of harassment. And research shows that if leaders convey that they wont tolerate harassment, people within an organization typically obey. Instead, far too many survivors kept their stories hidden for years. Thousands of women and many men have shared with me their stories of being sexually harassed since my testimony 28 years ago. These stories are especially troubling because they are so common. Yet they had long gone unseen, with the public viewing behavior from sexual extortion to sexual assault as a personal issue to be dealt with in private. This is me back in my college days. And this is my roommate, Mark. Together, we founded Facebook in 2004. Now, 15 years later, I think Facebook has grown too big and too powerful. Every week brings new headlines about privacy violations, election interference or mental health concerns. I havent been at the company in over a decade, but I feel a sense of responsibility to account for the damage done. Americans have the power to right the ship through government action. We need new regulations. Its time to break up Facebook. The early days of Facebook tell a classic American story of innovation and entrepreneurship. From our college dorm room, we started a little social network for our friends that exploded in popularity and connected the world. Marks hustle in those early years made it possible for Facebook to dominate our rivals like Friendster, MySpace, Tumblr and many others. These competitors made us better. And then we beat them out. This is how its supposed to work in America. Hard work leads to economic success. You start a small business and compete on the merits to provide a better product. Today, nearly three billion people use Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, and theyre all owned and controlled by the same company. Of every dollar spent buying ads on social media, $0.84 goes to Facebook. Its now worth over half a trillion dollars. Thats roughly the size of the G.D.P. of the bottom 65 countries in the world combined. Its not just that Facebook is a really big social network. Its everything. When a single company dominates any market, they become susceptible to abusing their power. Social networking is like most other American industries. There used to be plenty of healthy competition. But now many industries are controlled by just one or two companies. Companies often create an illusion of choice. You think there are hundreds of beer brands out there, but theyre all made by one or two companies. Why is this a problem? Well, when companies get too big, they get sloppy and careless, and that leads to things like poor privacy practices, enabling foreign actors to meddle in elections, the spread of violent rhetoric, fake news and the unbounded drive to capture more of our data and attention. I often hear people say, Im shutting down my Facebook account. Thank God for Instagram, not realizing that Instagram is owned by Facebook. People are powerless in this situation because theres nowhere else to go. Monopolies stifle innovation. Facebook snatches up competitors by buying them before they get too big. Or, by copying their innovations. Despite all the money and hype being poured into new startups, there hasnt been a single major social media platform launched since 2011. The harm goes beyond he economy though, it goes to democracy itself. When companies become empires, people are stripped of power. Facebooks employees write complex rules called algorithms that decide what you see in your News Feed. Facebook can decide what messages get delivered and which dont. And what exactly makes for violent or inappropriate content. Even Mark himself has said that he and the Facebook team have too much power over speech. Facebook does have a board of directors. But Mark owns the majority of the shares. Unlike the leader of a democracy there are no checks and balances on Facebook. Mark has no boss, and he cannot be fired. Listen, itd be great if Mark can fix this himself. But this, ironically, is a problem he cannot solve. We need the government to intervene with two steps. First, the Facebook empire needs to be broken up. Americas regulated corporate empires before, and we can do it again. This isnt unprecedented and surprisingly, it often boosts the value of these companies in the long run. The Federal Trade Commission can force Facebook to unwind its acquisitions of WhatsApp and Instagram. Then well see real competition around social media and digital messaging. Breaking up Facebook isnt a punishment for its economic success. Its a way to guarantee that other new companies can compete. We also need a new government agency to protect Americans from the overreach of Facebook and other companies like it. Think about it. We dont trust airlines or pharmaceutical companies to regulate themselves. We shouldnt trust social media companies either. We need basic privacy protections and the ability for people to move their data around as they please. Right now Facebook makes free speech decisions on its own with little accountability. Instead, we need government to set guidelines, not Facebook employees in Menlo Park. I dont think Marks a bad guy and Ive made this decision to speak out because I feel a sense of responsibility for what Facebook has become. And to be honest, Im angry that Marks obsession with growth led him to sacrifice security for clicks. I think we all want to live in a country where David can take on Goliath, where a kid with a smart idea in a dorm room can start a billion- dollar company. Weve strayed from that ideal, and breaking up and regulating Facebook will help put us back on that path. At a Thursday news conference, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said that a constitutional crisis has begun. The administration has decided they are not going to honor their oath of office, she said, echoing Representative Jerry Nadler, Democratic chairman of the Judiciary Committee. In addition to Barr, Pelosi said the House could hold others in contempt. Yet she repeated the Democratic refrain that the House needs to engage in further investigation rather than impeachment. What we want to do is get the facts, we want to do it in a way that is the least divisive to our country, she said. Pelosi is a sharp and pragmatic woman, and her evident belief that impeachment carries strategic risks for Democrats should be taken seriously. But it is incoherent to argue that Trump constitutes an existential threat to the Constitution, and that Congress should wait to use the Constitutions primary defense against such a threat. Democratic fear of divisiveness even as Republicans gleefully embrace it is leading to unilateral political disarmament. When it comes to holding the Trump administration accountable, contempt votes are a fine first step, but theyre mostly symbolic unless Democrats find a way to enforce them. A criminal contempt charge would have to be prosecuted by Barrs own Justice Department, which it will almost certainly not do. A civil citation could take months or even years to move through the courts. A subpoena fight from the gun trafficking case known as Fast and Furious which led to then Attorney General Eric Holder being held in contempt in 2012 by a Republican-controlled House was only settled last month. In the face of an administration that is trying to amass dictatorial powers, Democrats need to bring to bear all the powers of their own. Trumps outright rejection of congressional authority makes impeachment proceedings necessary, but even impeachment alone is not sufficient. Representative Jamie Raskin, a Democratic member of the Judiciary Committee and former constitutional law professor, points out that Congress has the power of inherent contempt. Thats a provision, last used in the 1930s, that allows the body to enforce its own orders, including by sending out the Houses sergeant-at-arms to arrest people. People keep saying to me, Well, isnt that an old law? he said, but its not a law with an expiration date. In fact, he argues, the older it is, the more venerable it is. Last June, Mayor Bill de Blasio and the City Council speaker, Corey Johnson, stood before scores of older New Yorkers outside City Hall to celebrate the news that this years capital budget would include $500 million to build new housing for low-income seniors. Yet, nearly a year later, it turns out that the money wasnt in the budget, the plan wasnt new and the senior housing envisioned hasnt been built or financed. Mr. Johnson told The Times that he thought the city had committed $500 million to the initiative. But de Blasio administration officials say that its all a misunderstanding and that the $500 million was the projects total cost to build about 1,000 apartments over several years. The citys share would be $100 million, a de Blasio spokeswoman said, and the rest would be financed by a mix of low-income housing tax credits and Section 8 dollars, from the federal program to subsidize housing for low- and moderate-income Americans. But thats not what people were led to believe, and the truth was revealed only after the city comptroller, Scott Stringer, asked Mr. de Blasio in March for an update on the project. In response, the de Blasio administration wrote that the $500 million wasnt in this years budget. Ms. Hegar is certainly no chicken. You may remember the viral video Doors, which recounted her childhood dream of becoming a pilot and her subsequent experience opening, pushing and sometimes kicking through every door that was in my way. Along with getting shot down and wounded, she waged a lawsuit against the Pentagon that ended the exclusion of women from ground combat. Ms. Hegar, who has taught at the University of Texas McCombs school of business and has been a consultant at Dell Computers, also has a campaign-ready bio called Shoot Like a Girl. Opinion Debate Will the Democrats face a midterm wipeout? Mark Penn and Andrew Stein write that "only a broader course correction to the center will give Democrats a fighting chance in 2022" and beyond. write that "only a broader course correction to the center will give Democrats a fighting chance in 2022" and beyond. Matthew Continetti writes that time and again, the biggest obstacle to a red wave hasnt been the Democratic Party. Its been the Republican Party. writes that time and again, the biggest obstacle to a red wave hasnt been the Democratic Party. Its been the Republican Party. Ezra Klein speaks to David Shor, who discusses his fear that Democrats face electoral catastrophe unless they shift their messaging. speaks to David Shor, who discusses his fear that Democrats face electoral catastrophe unless they shift their messaging. Michelle Cottle examines two primary contests that will shake the parties well beyond the states in play. She will need every ounce of fight she has for this race. This isnt Beto vs. the Beast Mr. Cornyn, unlike Ted Cruz, isnt a serial alienator in the Senate and beyond. He can point to success on Hurricane Harvey relief and stricter background checks for gun purchasers, even if it took the Sutherland Springs massacre to force his hand. It wont matter to his base that he supports President Trumps horrendous border policies and elimination of the Affordable Care Act and has a voting record on womens health that is perfectly in sync with the Pleistocene age. The creepy thing is that the latter may actually be an advantage here. Lots of people thought that when Ann Richards was elected governor in 1990 it signaled the birth of a new, more progressive Texas, but in many ways that dream was stillborn. Yes, our major cities are blue and even once-red suburban counties are trending that way. But rural voters still turn out en masse, and their conservative values and beliefs still make statewide races a bitter and losing battle for gender equality. As cited by The Texas Tribune, the electorate here is 53 percent female, but not even a fourth of the 150 members of the Texas House are women. The State Senate has nine women out of 31 members. Only one major Texas city can claim a female mayor, Betsy Price in Fort Worth. As the C.E.O. and co-founder of The Tribune, Evan Smith, put it: The government of Texas looks nothing like the state it governs. We are worse on the gender front than the color front. So what kind of a woman do Texas voters the ones who actually vote really want? As is the case in many places, the rules for Texas women are contradictory and forever changing. Sassy but respectful, smart but not showy, strong but ladylike, shrewd but always and forever sweet. Ann Richards, however beloved nationally, lost her bid for re-election to George W. Bush, who never got punished for being himself. Trade talks between the United States and China appear to be in serious trouble after China reportedly walked back some of its commitments and President Trump launched a tirade against Chinese negotiators on social media. This marks a sharp turn from last week, when Mr. Trump said talks were going along pretty well. As with most negotiations, the most intractable issues have been left for the final stages. But this round of trade talks, which are to resume on Thursday, is different from those that have come before. If these negotiations fail, there is no going back to the status quo and waiting for another day to re-engage. Further tariff increases and other punitive measures, from both the United States and China, are likely to follow with little restraint. Among the most difficult questions still on the table are the so-called structural issues that are at the core of the Chinese economic model. These include subsidies and other financial assistance provided to state-owned businesses, which make them unfair competitors. So far, China has reportedly agreed to more transparency on subsidies, an important first step, but there has not been enough progress on controlling them. Mr. Trump will need more than that to placate his political base. The president of the A.F.L.-C.I.O., Richard Trumka, has already warned, in a recent interview with The Financial Times, that he will consider any deal that fails to reduce industrial subsidies inferior. Even if they can address the structural issues, the United States and China must still decide how the deal would be enforced. In particular, they have not agreed on whether tariffs could be reimposed if violations occur. The United States is demanding that it retain the right to use unilateral tariffs, while China gives up its right to retaliate. That is a tough sell politically for Beijing, and so far neither side appears to be budging. The bill lowered the top tax rate from 39.6 percent to 37 percent. But it was far more generous to the wealthy who, like the president, structure their businesses to pay tax on a so-called pass-through basis. They gained a whopping 20 percent deduction on their income. While the bill placed limits on wealthy taxpayers claiming this deduction, there was a special carve-out for real estate the main source of Mr. Trumps wealth. As a result, the bill cut the top rate on people who, like the president, own pass-through businesses in the real estate industry all the way to 29.5 percent. And thats just the start. The 2017 bill also repealed the like-kind exchange rule for all property except, you guessed it, real estate. This rule allows the wealthy to indefinitely defer paying tax on capital gains when they change their investment portfolio but do not liquidate. One positive feature of the 2017 tax law was a new limit on the deductibility of interest payments, which helps reduce the tax bias in favor of debt-financed investment. One might assume that Mr. Trump, as the self-proclaimed king of debt, would be hurt financially by such a limit. But in another happy twist for the Trump family, real estate developers can elect out of the limitation entirely. Subsequent Treasury regulations have also been great news for real estate developers. For example, the bills Opportunity Zone provision dramatically reduces or eliminates capital gains taxes due on funds invested in designated areas. According to the president, his daughter Ivanka pushed very hard for this provision. But while purportedly designed to stimulate investment in poor areas, these regulations inexplicably gutted some provisions restricting the tax perk to new business activity. These generous tax breaks are now going to the toniest neighborhoods in some cities and prime beachfront property in New Jersey, benefiting Mr. Trumps son-in-law in the process. All of this raises the question of whether the president steered the 2017 tax bill and subsequent regulations in directions that personally benefited him and his family. Moreover, because Mr. Trump is the only president for at least 40 years not to liquidate his business assets or put them in a blind trust, concerns about his financial conflicts of interest are uniquely heightened. $995,000 | 2212 Bowie Drive, Corsicana, Tex. Down from second place in February, this four-bedroom, three-and-a-half-bathroom house has 5,776 square feet of living space and a three-car garage. The property is seven and a half landscaped acres, zoned for keeping horses. Broker: Giordano, Wegman, Walsh and Associates, Christies International Real Estate For weekly email updates on residential real estate news, sign up here. Follow us on Twitter: @nytrealestate. At that point, to remain on Earth would require rationing and declining opportunities. But the rest of the solar system offers virtually limitless resources. Do we want stasis and rationing or do we want dynamism and growth? he asked rhetorically. This is an easy choice. We know what we want. We just have to get busy. Mr. Bezos founded his rocket company in 2000, which means that it has been around longer than the other, better-known billionaire rocket company, Elon Musks SpaceX. Mr. Musk started SpaceX in 2002. But for the first decade and a half of its existence, Blue Origin operated quietly. When one of its rockets crashed during a test flight in 2011, a week passed before Mr. Bezos acknowledged the failure. In 2016, Mr. Bezos finally invited journalists for a visit to Blue Origins headquarters in Kent, Wash., south of Seattle, and described his vision of millions of people living and working in space. On Thursday, Mr. Bezos seemed to take indirect aim at Mr. Musks vision of establishing a colony on Mars. The Amazon founder said giant space colonies rotating to provide artificial gravity would be a much more practical solution to settling humans across the solar system. Mars, the moon and other destinations would not provide all that much space to live, and they are distant and largely inhospitable. The colonies Dr. ONeill envisioned would be much more inviting. This is Maui on its best day all year around, he said. And people could still easily go back to Earth. For now, Blue Origin is still in the early stages, far behind the accomplishments of SpaceX. Two years ago, Mr. Bezos said he would be selling $1 billion a year in Amazon stock to finance Blue Origin. Mr. Bezos will retain control of Blue Origin after his divorce this year. Heres a pop quiz for you. Tom is taller than Dick. Dick is taller than Harry. Whos taller, Harry or Tom? If you said Tom, congratulations! You just demonstrated whats called transitive inference the ability to compare things indirectly, based on previous juxtapositions. But before you pat yourself on the back too much, you should know that this skill was recently demonstrated by another creature: the humble paper wasp that might be living in your backyard right now. In the summer of 2017, researchers at the University of Michigan put two species of paper wasps through a transitive inference test. A statistically significant portion of the time, the wasps passed. Other animals including rats, geese and cichlid fish have also exhibited this capacity. But this study, which was published Tuesday in Biology Letters, is the first to successfully showcase it in an invertebrate (honeybees failed a similar test in 2004). [Like the Science Times page on Facebook. | Sign up for the Science Times newsletter.] Paper wasps are found on every continent except Antarctica. You might be near some right now. They tend to nest in the eaves of houses, or inside barbecue grills, said Elizabeth Tibbetts, the studys lead author. Because its so consistently cold, Antarctica is challenging to study, and its been difficult to predict patterns of biodiversity. But Dr. Bokhorst and his colleagues managed to find a direct connection between areas of biodiversity filled with lichens, mosses, microscopic animals and small creatures and the nitrogen left behind when penguins and elephant seals defecate. The larger the penguin colony, the further its footprint spread, the study showed. The team looked at nitrogen because its various isotopes made it relatively easy to trace it from the sea to mosses and lichen that grow on land, and to the animals that feed on them. The penguins and elephant seals were the conduits ferrying that nitrogen from water to land, the study showed. We know that nutrient content of your food has a big impact on abundance and diversity of consumers, but for whatever reasons, no ones looked at that in such a cold place as the Antarctic, Dr. Bokhorst said. The continent, he said, is the ideal experimental lab, for studying how nutrients relate to an ecosystems biodiversity because its food web is relatively simple. In a more habitable place, there are so many interacting factors that its often difficult to figure out whats driving what whether predation or more nutrients are leading to changes, for instance, Dr. Bokhorst said. In the new study, it was not hard to trace the path of the nitrogen from penguin and elephant seal to lichen and moss and then to mites and worms. Dr. Bokhorst is now studying invasive species in the Arctic and Antarctic, mostly spread, he said, by the boots of tourists hoping to catch a glimpse of penguins. Waste from penguin colonies then nourishes those invasive species, which consist mostly of grasses. These animals could be like invasion engineers, allowing the grasses to spread further, Dr. Bokhorst said. Are you an avid Modern Love reader? Earlier this year my creative writing teacher, Suzanne Berne, sent me What the Sea Took Away, a Daughter Restores. After that, I feel like I read every single Modern Love essay out there. Theyre all so powerful. So when I found out about the contest I was like, I have to just try. I never expected to see my work up alongside those amazing authors. When did you submit it? Dan told me at the start that most submissions come at the last minute. I read that and I was like, O.K., I need to submit this like six days in advance. I ended up submitting it the Wednesday before the due date. Its only been a day, but whats the reception been like? I never expected the response I got. Ive heard from friends and family, but also strangers have been reaching out and telling me my essay touched them in some way. Some of them lost someone as well and they used social media to grieve. Its been really incredible to hear from people with similar stories. What was your writing process like? I wrote it in kind of one fell swoop and then went back and edited it a bunch. I always overwrite, a lot, and then condense it. I usually write everything I can think of, put it all out there, and then I go back and see whats saying what I want to say in the most concise, clear way. How long was your first draft? It was probably double the size, honestly. I think I just included every detail possible and then I realized that some of it wasnt necessary. So, for me, it was about including what in the narrative was important to include and kind of looking at it as if I was approaching the story the first time with no information. Amazon barreled into the childrens smart-speaker market last year with a brightly colored device called Echo Dot Kids Edition. The tech giant played up the device as a simple way for youngsters to converse with Alexa, the companys voice-activated virtual assistant, and obtain age-appropriate apps. But recent research commissioned by two prominent advocacy groups found that the device also enabled children to easily divulge their names, home addresses, Social Security numbers and other intimate information to Alexa. In addition, the researchers reported that Amazon made it cumbersome for parents to delete their childs personal details from the system. On Thursday, the two groups the Campaign for a Commercial-Free Childhood and the Center for Digital Democracy joined more than a dozen others in lodging a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission. The groups say that Amazons practices violated the Childrens Online Privacy Protection Act, a federal law protecting the personal information of people under 13. If you were to rank all the ways humans can inflict harm on one another, ranked by severity, it might be a few pages before you got to intentional inducement of FOMO. Purposefully giving someone else FOMO fear of missing out is not a crime, or even a misdemeanor. But it is a big problem on Instagram, where millions of teenagers go every day to check on their peers. And it is one of the subtle slights that Instagram is focused on classifying as part of its new anti-bullying initiative, which will use a combination of artificial intelligence and human reviewers to try to protect its youngest users from harassment and pain. The anti-bullying effort is part of a larger attempt by Instagram and its parent company, Facebook, to clean themselves up. Both platforms have struggled to contain a flood of toxic behavior, extreme content and misinformation on their services. Instagram is particularly vulnerable because of its young user base. About 70 percent of American teenagers use the service, according to the Pew Research Center. And 42 percent of cyberbullying victims ages 12 to 20 reported being bullied on Instagram, according to a 2017 survey by the British anti-bullying organization Ditch the Label. Its $82.4 billion valuation, which factors in stock options and restricted stock grants, is above its last private fund-raising valuation of $76 billion, from August. But it is below the $100 billion that Uber forecast to some investors this year and well below the $120 billion that some of its bankers floated last year. Its lead underwriters at Morgan Stanley, Goldman Sachs and Bank of America acted cautiously in pricing the I.P.O., said people briefed on the decision who were not authorized to speak publicly. Among their concerns: stock market turmoil driven by worries that the Trump administrations trade war with China will continue, and concern about the financial performance at a rival, Lyft. Lyft went public in March, but its shares quickly fell; this week, the company posted a $1.14 billion loss for its first quarter. There have also been questions from investors about Ubers business model. The company faces significant competition in its ride-hailing and food delivery businesses, and price wars with an array of competitors in each market are expected to continue. It lost $1.1 billion in the first three months of this year alone, even as its revenue grows. LONDON Sally Field wears anxiety like a layer of clothing she cant shed in the Old Vics revival of All My Sons, the latest in a number of plays by Arthur Miller onstage here, and the starriest, too. Running through June 8, the production will be shown in movie theaters around the world via National Theater Live on May 14. Alongside the admirable and avuncular Bill Pullman, Ms. Field grabs a sometimes labored play by the scruff of its neck and ensures that attention must be paid. (Thats to quote from another forlorn Miller wife, in a later play, Death of a Salesman, currently playing down the road at the Young Vic. That one is notable for having an almost all-black cast.) In All My Sons, Ms. Field proves once more that an actress long feted for her work in films and on TV possesses real theatrical mettle. Playing Kate Keller, a housewife adrift in a family dogged by deceit, the double Oscar winner combines fear with restlessness and tenderness alongside an overwhelming sense of denial. She and Mr. Pullmans Joe lost one of their two sons in World War II, and Kate lives daily with the self-deluded prospect that he might yet return to them. At the same time, Joe must grapple with the shame that he let a business partner take the blame for manufacturing faulty parts that led to the deaths of 21 pilots during the war. Joe wants to put this grievous episode behind him, but Miller, like his adored Ibsen before him, shows how the past cant help but invade the present. Our guide to plays and musicals coming to New York stages and a few last-chance picks of shows that are about to close. Our reviews of open shows are at nytimes.com/reviews/theater. Previews & Openings CURSE OF THE STARVING CLASS at the Pershing Square Signature Center (in previews; opens on May 13). In Sam Shepards brutal and funny rural California psychodrama, revived by Signature and directed by Terry Kinney, family life is rough on doors, artichokes, a chicken, a lamb and most every person involved. Maggie Siff and David Warshofsky play Mom and Dad. 212-244-7529, signaturetheatre.org DYING CITY at the Tony Kiser Theater at Second Stage Theater (previews start on May 14; opens on June 3). Christopher Shinn directs a revival of his 2006 play about wars, both public and private. Mary Elizabeth Winstead stars as a therapist mourning her husband (Colin Woodell, who also plays the husbands twin). Reviewing the plays New York premiere in 2007, Ben Brantley wrote that its initial mysteries spawn other, deeper questions that stay with you into the night. 212-246-4422, 2st.com On two of my four nights in town, I did break the cap by not stopping at one (or two) extra-crisp Czech pilsners, an overdraft that I feel most beer-worshipping Prague residents would understand and approve. My cousin Michael certainly did, as he took me out for a beer on a Monday night that turned into four or five starting at the Prague Beer Museum with its large (but not cheap) selection of Czech beers and wound to U Sudu, an underground labyrinth of high-arched brick ceilings and packed with beer-drinking students, a few of whom we dragged into 20-crown games of foosball. I commented on how the place was surprisingly full late on a weeknight. You never know whats going to happen in Prague, Michael said. Sometimes Monday nights are the best nights. Another night, one beer turned into three at Vinohradsky Pivovar, a highly regarded brew pub (disclaimer: Michaels friends are part-owners). I loved the pilsner there so much that for the first time I can remember, I voluntarily drank it even though an IPA was available. I should note that I also occasionally ate well on the cheap. I kept snack spending to a minimum by packing Tatranky bars, old-fashioned chocolate-covered wafers, that cost me five to 10 koruny at the supermarket. Pulling them out of my pocket turned out to be a neat party trick, evoking double-takes from Czechs surprised to see a foreigner eating a childhood favorite. It was more or less how I would react coming across a group of Chinese tourists in Times Square unwrapping Ding Dongs. Aside from a couple of bargain Vietnamese meals at the market, I stuck with Czech cuisine throughout. A cafeteria-style restaurant, Havelska Koruna, was amazingly located right in Stare Mesto. Theres a slight markup for the location, and a 39-crown add-on if you cant resist the fruit dumpling topped in creamy sauce, but it was still a great deal. Czechs were tickled I ate there as well. Thats where we used to go when we were younger and had a hangover, said Kristyna Pekarkova a Prague native who I met through Michael. She is 24. Friday 1) 4 p.m. Art start A five-story building clad in gold leaf welcomes visitors to Fondazione Prada, a new contemporary arts complex as notable for its world-class exhibitions as for its eye-catching architecture. Last year the opening of a nine-story tower marked the completion of the compound, a former distillery redesigned by OMA, the architecture firm co-founded by Rem Koolhaas. Tour the towers large-scale artworks Jeff Koonss tulips, Walter De Marias shiny Bel Airs, Damien Hirsts disturbing black flies along with temporary exhibitions, including a multimedia installation from the American artists Lizzie Fitch and Ryan Trecartin (through Aug. 5). Even the on-site cafe, Bar Luce, is worth a look; its retro decor styled by the film director Wes Anderson includes whimsical touches, such as a Steve Zissou-themed pinball machine. Admission, 15, or about $16.70. 2) 6:30 p.m. Alternative aperitivo Aperitivo is the time to stimulate (yet not sate) the appetite before dinner. For an unconventional take on the tradition, head to Birrificio Italiano Milano, the first bar from an acclaimed microbrewery, which opened in 2017 with beautiful terrazzo floors and a dozen taps. Try the Flos Alba, a barrel-aged sour wheat beer, paired with cicchetti (Venetian tapas), such as bite-size, mortadella-stuffed brioche. Or join the boisterous local crowd at Lacerba, a bar that embodies Italys early-20th-century Futurismo movement, from the riotous decor walls papered with vintage Campari posters, model buses and mini liquor bottles hanging overhead to the innovative cocktails, such as the Spicy Negroni (mezcal, Campari, gin, vermouth and habanero bitters; 9). The Alabama Senate on Thursday postponed debate on a proposal to outlaw most abortions in the state, delaying a measure that is intended to serve as a direct challenge to the Supreme Courts holding that a woman has a constitutional right to end a pregnancy. Faced with a procedural dispute and open divisions among Republicans over how far the abortion ban should go, the Senate abruptly adjourned until Tuesday. As the chaos played out on the Senate floor, where lawmakers clashed over whether the state should allow abortions in cases of rape or incest, supporters and critics alike acknowledged that the bill, the most far-reaching effort in the nation this year to curb abortion, was still likely to become law. I know you all are for this bill, and I know this bill is going to pass, Senator Vivian Davis Figures, a Democrat and one of the few women in the Alabama Legislature, told Republicans on the floor on Thursday. You all are going to get your way, but at least treat us fairly and do it the right way. The measure would effectively ban most abortions at every stage of pregnancy. Doctors could be charged with a felony and face up to 99 years in prison for performing an abortion, unless the womans health was at serious risk. Some Americans look to the border and see huddled masses of desperate mothers and fathers fleeing with their children from violence and destitution. They see asylum seekers who should be offered not just protection, but also opportunity, by their more prosperous northern neighbor. Others view the new arrivals as opportunistic and reckless because they have chosen to put vulnerable children at risk, bringing them on a dangerous, sometimes deadly journey in order to exploit the American legal system to get an unearned leg up in life. Almost no one calls the newcomers foreigners, though it would be an accurate and relatively dispassionate term to use. For its part, the federal government takes a clinical approach to the discussion. Some people argue that doing so dehumanizes migrants, which can also tilt the debate. For example, in government parlance, the foreign-born are referred to as aliens. Youth who migrate alone are called unaccompanied alien children or unaccompanied minors. Anyone intercepted by the Border Patrol while crossing the Rio Grande into Texas is considered wet, which, to many ears, sounds too much like a racist term for Mexican people. Even asylum seekers who look for Border Patrol agents and turn themselves in and ask for protection are counted in official data as apprehended, suggesting, inaccurately, that they were caught trying to sneak into the United States. Readers pay close attention to the words we use as journalists to describe these issues, and for good reason. A few choice terms can shift the entire tone of a story. Years ago, the complaint I heard most often was about whether to call immigrants living in the United States without legal status illegal or undocumented (I see problems with both and try to avoid them). But now the questions are evolving. Should the situation with large numbers of people overwhelming Border Patrol stations be called a crisis, even if some of the chaos is self-imposed by the administration? Should rules intended to protect the welfare of children be called loopholes because they also make it easier for children to enter and remain in the United States? Recently, a reader pointed out that this newsletter used the word deployment to describe a temporary assignment that sent two of my colleagues to live on the southern border for several months. While inside newsrooms, editors and reporters often use that word to describe story assignments of all kinds (Caitlin, youre being deployed to help with coverage of the royal wedding,) the phrase itself doesnt typically appear in print, except in stories about a military response in a violent conflict. In this case, deployment may have conjured images of chaos and danger along the border that dont match up with reality, so we scrapped it. Likewise, President Trumps favorite way of describing the process of detaining and then freeing migrants captured at the border catch and release, he calls it. Sounds like fishing, many people pointed out, and desperate migrants, whatever you call them, are not quarry. Our preference now is to avoid the phrase, unless referring to the way the administration describes it. The challenge here is not that a few of the words that are used in the immigration debate are politically charged, but that the majority of them are. In light of that, one useful exercise might be to pause for a moment, wherever you stand in the debate, and switch out the terms you typically use for those of people who see things differently not as a way to make your views more like theirs, but to more fully understand the space between them. Read earlier installments of Crossing the Border here. Its got to be really confusing for the average citizen who sees both things going on and doesnt understand how all of the above can be occurring, said Michele Hanisee, the president of the Association of Deputy District Attorneys in Los Angeles County. She is seeking a death sentence in one of her cases: the man accused of being a serial killer, Alexander Hernandez, who is charged with killing five people in a shooting rampage in the San Fernando Valley in 2014. The simple answer is this: The district attorneys of the state of California took an oath to uphold and follow the law, Ms. Hanisee said. I think the governor probably did too, but he doesnt care. The governor, she added, does not have the legal authority to tell them not to seek death or not to follow the law. New death sentences in California have declined in recent years; 2018 was a record low, with five new sentences. The drop aligns with a national trend, as public support for capital punishment has waned and juries have been reluctant to impose death sentences in the face of evidence of racial disparities and high-profile exonerations. Before Mr. Newsoms moratorium, 20 other states, including most recently Washington and Delaware, had abolished the practice. Public support for capital punishment across the country has dropped substantially since the 1990s, according to polling data from Gallup. California, while maintaining a large death row, has not executed anyone since 2006. There were longstanding legal challenges to the states lethal injection protocol that had halted executions even before Mr. Newsoms moratorium. Many supporters of capital punishment say that while the system can be reformed to reduce racial disparities, and thus produce fewer death sentences, the penalty should remain an option for prosecutors and juries in the most heinous of crimes, including some of the cases underway in California. WASHINGTON Federal prosecutors in Virginia charged a former United States intelligence analyst with providing classified information to a reporter, according to unsealed court documents. Daniel Everette Hale, 31, of Nashville was arrested Thursday morning and was expected to make an initial appearance in federal court in Nashville. He was charged under the Espionage Act and with theft of government property. The Espionage Act is a World War I-era law that criminalizes the disclosure of potentially damaging national security secrets to someone not authorized to receive them. Mr. Hales case is the latest example of the Justice Departments efforts to find and prosecute officials who provide reporters with sensitive information, an aggressive approach dating to the George W. Bush administration. The number of leak cases accelerated under President Barack Obama, and the heightened pace has continued under President Trump. Prosecutors said that in 2013, while Mr. Hale was enlisted in the Air Force and assigned to the National Security Agency, he began communicating with a reporter. Details in the indictment suggest the reporter worked for The Intercept, a news website. This is the third case in which someone was prosecuted after providing the media outlet with classified information. WASHINGTON Returning to a central issue of the 2018 campaign, House Democrats on Thursday passed legislation to reverse Trump administration rules that allow expansion of health care plans that do not have to comply with the Affordable Care Acts mandated coverage of pre-existing medical conditions. The vote 230 to 183 was a jab at President Trump, who has pressed for ways around the coverage mandates of President Barack Obamas signature domestic achievement while claiming he is committed to protecting Americans with chronic illnesses. But it served a larger political purpose, kicking off a push by House Democrats on health care, an issue they see as central to winning back the White House and holding their gains in the House in 2020. Over the next two weeks, Democrats expect to pass a raft of legislation to drum home the point that, even as they clash with the White House over the findings of the Mueller report, they will continue to focus on proposals that help real people. The House bill would roll back an October 2018 regulation by the Treasury Department and the Department of Health and Human Services that expanded the eligibility of states to receive waivers to the Affordable Care Act to increase coverage options particularly with insurance plans that offer more limited coverage than those compliant with coverage mandates under the 2010 health law. WASHINGTON President Trump said Thursday that he would leave it to Attorney General William P. Barr to decide whether the special counsel testifies before Congress, a concession of sorts after Speaker Nancy Pelosi declared the country in a constitutional crisis over the presidents blanket refusal to cooperate with the Democrats investigating him. His comments were a seeming reversal, since Mr. Trump wrote over the weekend on Twitter that the special counsel, Robert S. Mueller III, should not be allowed to appear before Congress. Mr. Barr who refused to testify before the House last week amid a spat over the structure of the hearing has told lawmakers that he has no objection to Mr. Muellers testifying. In a surprise 45-minute news conference in the Roosevelt Room, his first since the release of the Mueller report, Mr. Trump also said he was pretty surprised that his eldest son, Donald Trump Jr., was subpoenaed to testify in front of the Senate about his contacts with Russians during the 2016 presidential campaign. My son is a good person, Mr. Trump said. My son testified for hours and hours. My son was totally exonerated by Mueller. The president did not make it clear whether he would fight the subpoena, saying: Well see what happens. Im just very surprised. Yes, there are disagreements with the president within his own party. But, for the past two years, Mr. Trump holds too much political power over the Republican base for that dissent to ever gain serious political traction. Again and again weve seen that the Republicans who emerge as Mr. Trumps loudest critics are often at the end of their political careers: Neither Jeff Flake nor Bob Corker opted to run for re-election to the Senate in 2018; Senator John McCain was nearly 80 years old when Mr. Trump was elected. In this case, Mr. Burr is the chairman of a committee that prides itself on its bipartisanship. Hes overseeing an investigation that aides say has collected a mountain of evidence showing how Russia tried to influence the 2016 election. But, perhaps most significantly, he announced last year that this would be his final term in office. Mr. Tillis, meanwhile, is up for re-election in 2020 and, even more important, facing a primary challenge from the right. The Times reported on Thursday evening that he was under intense pressure from associates of the Trumps to rebuke Mr. Burr. Mr. Tillis explained his thinking to reporters on Capitol Hill on Thursday. I personally believe Democrats are just trying to keep this thing alive, and its their latest launch point to do it, he said. When a reporter pointed out that Mr. Burr led the committee that issued the subpoena, Mr. Tillis responded: I think youd have to speak to Senator Burr. I stand by my comment. Read more: Allies of Trumps Son Declare War on G.O.P.-Led Senate Panel After Subpoena [Sign up here to get On Politics in your inbox.] Good Thursday morning. Here are some of the stories making news in Washington and politics today. _____________________ The House Judiciary Committee voted to recommend that Attorney General William P. Barr be held in contempt of Congress for failing to turn over the unredacted Mueller report, hours after President Trump asserted executive privilege to shield the full report and underlying evidence from public view. House Democrats, frustrated by Mr. Trumps stonewalling of their demands for compliance with their investigations, seek a more aggressive effort to compel him to cooperate as impeachment looms. The Senate Intelligence Committee has subpoenaed Donald Trump Jr. to testify on his contact with Russians in June 2016 after being promised political dirt on Hillary Clinton. WASHINGTON President Trump will nominate Patrick M. Shanahan as his second defense secretary, trying to cement the acting Pentagon chief against an expected challenging battle with lawmakers and Defense Department officials skeptical of him, White House officials said on Thursday. The announcement, in a tweet from Sarah Huckabee Sanders, the White House press secretary, followed a monthlong Pentagon ethics investigation that found that Mr. Shanahan, a former Boeing executive, had not acted improperly in official meetings when discussing military contractors. Announcing the nomination in a Twitter statement from his press secretary, Mr. Trump eschewed the usual pomp and ceremony that comes with putting forth his nominee to lead the countrys 1.2 million active-duty military troops. Ms. Sanders said that Mr. Trump intended to nominate Mr. Shanahan because of his outstanding service to the country and his demonstrated ability to lead. She trumpeted Mr. Shanahans dual graduate degrees, in engineering and business administration, from the Massachusetts Institution of Technology. (It is actually the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.) What Trump Said They broke the deal. They cant do that. So theyll be paying if we dont make the deal, nothing wrong with taking in over $100 billion a year, $100 billion, we never did that before. False. A Chinese delegation is expected to travel on Thursday to Washington to resume trade talks after negotiations had faltered. President Trump said on Wednesday on Twitter that he would be very happy to keep existing tariffs on Chinese products and fill government coffers with $100 billion in tariff revenue, a sentiment he repeated during a rally on Wednesday night in Panama City Beach, Fla. That figure, however, is an exaggeration of an estimate. The Congressional Budget Office projected that tariffs would generate $74 billion in tariff revenue in 2019, nearly double the $41 billion from 2018. Even if the nominal amount collected has never reached $100 billion and still wont this year tariffs used to make up a much more significant portion of all federal revenue, almost a third in 1915. In comparison, the $74 billion in tariffs that the government will collect in 2019 is about 2 percent of total revenue. What Trump Said The last administration also signed a disastrous trade deal with South Korea that cost our country nearly 100,000 but it was really 250,000 jobs. And if you remember, our secretary of state at the time and our president at the time said, This will give 250,000 jobs. This is exaggerated. Mr. Trump seemed to spontaneously revise his initial estimate of jobs lost because of the free trade agreement between the United States and South Korea, which was negotiated under President Barack Obama. WASHINGTON President Trump said on Thursday that he was directing a bipartisan group of lawmakers to create legislation that would provide relief for people who were surprised by bills they receive from out-of-network health care providers after both emergency and scheduled medical visits. During a rambling 45-minute speech that veered into matters of foreign policy and his anger over the special counsels report, Mr. Trump pushed for a measure that he said would be bipartisan, even as House Democrats some of whom the president also attacked by name took up legislation to fortify a law he reviles, the Affordable Care Act. We are determined to end surprise medical billing, Mr. Trump said of the practice, which occurs when a doctor is unexpectedly not part of an insurance network. We are going to hold insurance companies and hospitals totally accountable. The move to streamline billing costs amounts to a piecemeal effort by the president, who describes the Republican Party as the party of health care even though, in April, he decided to punt on providing a Republican answer to the Affordable Care Act. Mr. Trump backed off plans to introduce a Republican replacement for the law after Senator Mitch McConnell, the majority leader, privately warned him that the Senate would not revisit health care in a comprehensive way before the 2020 elections. The former C.I.A. officer Valerie Plame, whose cover was blown in a leak that touched off a political scandal during the George W. Bush administration, said Thursday that she plans to run for Congress as a Democrat. Ms. Plame, 55, is running for the northern New Mexico seat being vacated by Representative Ben Ray Lujan. Mr. Lujan, who had been regarded as a possible successor to Speaker Nancy Pelosi, has announced that he plans to run for Senate to replace the retiring Senator Tom Udall. Ms. Plame, who moved to Santa Fe after leaving Washington more than a decade ago, has recently worked as a speaker and writer, but she is best known for the circumstances of her departure from the C.I.A., where she had served for two decades. When her husband, the American diplomat Joseph C. Wilson IV, wrote an opinion essay in The New York Times in 2003 raising questions about a central underpinning for the invasion of Iraq that President Saddam Hussein was acquiring nuclear weapons there Ms. Plames identity was leaked to the news media. JOHANNESBURG South Africas long-governing African National Congress party appeared headed for a victory in national elections, partial results showed on Thursday, though its support seemed to have dipped under the leadership of President Cyril Ramaphosa. [Here are the latest results, on Friday.] The party led with 57 percent of the vote on Thursday evening, with ballots for the national Parliament and provincial legislatures counted in about 65 percent of polling stations nationwide. The governments Council for Scientific and Industrial Research and some local news organizations projected that the A.N.C. would end up with less than 60 percent of the vote a symbolically important threshold that the party has not failed to cross since coming to power in 1994 at the end of apartheid. When global engineering firms told the Mexican government that building a new refinery according to the countrys budget and timeline would be impossible, President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador refused to accept their verdict. Instead, the president said Thursday that the state-owned oil company, Pemex, and the Energy Ministry, would take charge of the project. He promised that the new refinery, which represents his bid to achieve energy self-sufficiency in Mexico, would cost no more than $8 billion and be ready by 2022. The decision to reject the engineering firms and press on with a grand infrastructure project reflects a pattern in Mr. Lopez Obradors governance, less than six months into his presidency. Told that a plan he envisions cant be done, he sticks fast and orders officials to turn his ideas into reality. One of his first actions as president was to cancel the construction of a new airport for Mexico City. Instead, he proposed to build a second airport to complement the capitals existing one, although studies on the viability of increasing flights through the shared airspace have not been completed. Even if the timing of the launches is a coincidence, they could serve to remind the United States that it needs Chinas help to maintain pressure on the North and keep its nuclear program in check. I come bearing sincerity, and hope in the current special circumstances to hold a reasoned, frank exchange of views with the U.S. side, Liu He, Chinas chief negotiator in the trade talks said after arriving in Washington, according to Xinhua, Chinas official news agency. China believes that increasing tariffs wont solve problems, wont benefit China or the United States, and nor will it benefit the global economy. Still, a resolution of the trade war during this weeks talks seems challenging. China had been willing to protect intellectual property and open its markets to American business, but the Trump administration wanted the agreement to specify that some of those changes be made in Chinese law. For China, any legislative change or policy reversal could be a very public and potentially humbling reminder that it gave ground under pressure. That would bring back painful memories of the days of national humiliation in our history, said Wang Yong, the director of the Center for International Political Economy at Peking University. China has made too many concessions. The blaring nature of the Trump administrations broadsides has sharpened the dilemma that Mr. Xi faces in the negotiations. To have Trump doing it so publicly is obviously very, very difficult for Xi Jinping, said Susan L. Shirk, a professor at the University of California, San Diego, who worked as a deputy assistant secretary of state responsible for China under President Bill Clinton. It makes it much more difficult for him to make the compromises needed. Bolatbek Beldibekov, the head of the local police departments press service, told the newspaper Uralskaya Nedelya that the offense was not that he demonstrated with the blank placard. Rather, he said, Mr. Sagutdinov ran afoul of the law by making the political statement that there is no democracy and free speech in Kazakhstan in a public place. The episode stood out to human rights watchers as a particularly vivid example of Kazakhstans restrictions on expression. On Thursday, as demonstrations were planned on the countrys May 9 Victory Day holiday, several major local and international news publications were blocked, and citizens reported that access to Facebook was restricted. One news publication, Vlast, wrote on Facebook that one of its correspondents, Daniyar Moldabekov, was detained by the police despite showing officers his press badge. He was later released. Kazakhstans Constitution grants its citizens the right to peacefully and without arms assemble, hold meetings, rallies and demonstrations, street processions and pickets. But it also allows for restrictions on those rights, and activists say those restrictions have been extensive. These authorities are very, very creative in using these provisions of administrative law, said Yevgeniy Zhovtis, director of the Kazakhstan International Bureau for Human Rights and Rule of Law. Those seeking to publicly demonstrate, either in groups or by themselves, must apply to local officials 10 days in advance, he said. If approved and many applications are not the protests will be confined to a few designated areas, he said. Mihra Rittmann, senior Central Asia researcher for Human Rights Watch, said at least four other people had been detained in the past month for expressing their views publicly, even when the messages did not oppose the government. In one case, an artist was charged with petty hooliganism after hanging a banner over a highway with a quote from the Constitution. WASHINGTON North Korea launched short-range ballistic missiles on Thursday for the second time in a week, prompting President Trump to acknowledge that nobodys happy about the implications for his diplomatic effort to denuclearize the country. Hours before the presidents comments, the United States said it had seized a North Korean ship that was flouting sanctions by carrying banned exports of coal. Meanwhile, a research group revealed a huge, years-old base that appears to have been designed to hide and protect the Norths growing arsenal of long-range missiles. The menacing signals from both sides were further evidence that Mr. Trump, less than a year into his initiative to deal one on one with a North Korean autocrat, has run headlong into the roadblocks that doomed the efforts of his four immediate predecessors. The diplomatic setback comes amid Mr. Trumps tense argument over trade with China the country he needs most to rein in Kim Jong-un, the Norths leader and as the United States appears to be veering toward a deeper confrontation with Iran. KABUL, Afghanistan As the Taliban opened a new front this week in the Afghan war by attacking American-backed aid organizations in Kabul, negotiators for the group and the United States were meeting in the latest round of talks on ending the war. The Taliban has struck aid organizations sparingly in the past, making the attacks on Wednesday at the offices of CARE and Counterpart International even more stark. At least nine people were killed and 20 others wounded, Afghan officials confirmed. The death toll was nearly double initial reports. A Taliban spokesman, Zabihullah Mujahid, was quick to claim responsibility for the attack and to offer an explanation on Twitter: Counterpart International, which works largely on civic engagement projects, is American led and is financed primarily by the United States Agency for International Development. But neither Taliban nor American negotiators commented on the inherent contradiction in talking peace while attacking civilian targets. The Taliban had rejected pleas by the Afghan government and the Americans for a cease-fire during Ramadan, but they had promised to avoid civilian targets during the holy month. BANGKOK Thailands opposition Pheu Thai Party won the most seats in the countrys first election since a 2014 coup, but despite an alliance with other pro-democracy parties it likely will not be able to form a government because of rules that help the military. No party holds a majority of seats in the House of Representatives, according to official results released Wednesday, meaning selecting a prime minister could involve prolonged negotiations. But the head of the junta and leader of the 2014 coup, Prayuth Chan-ocha, is expected to retain his post as prime minister. This is what the election was designed for, said Pavin Chachavalpongpun, an associate professor of political science at the Center for Southeast Asian Studies at Kyoto University. The election was designed for the prolongation of military rule. The military, which wrote the 2017 constitution that created the framework for the new government, appoints the 250-member Senate, giving it a built-in advantage before voting even began for the 500-member House of Representatives in March. It is our duty, our responsibility, to bring you this news: Australia put 46 million new dollar bills into circulation in October and months passed before anyone seemed to have noticed that the currency contained an unfortunate spelling error. The admittedly tiny mistake, on the new $50 note, came to light this week, according to local reports, after someone spotted the typo and anonymously alerted a radio station to the problem: The last i in the word responsibility was missing. The Reserve Bank of Australia told local publications that it would fix the mistake, but leave the millions of notes bearing the misspelled word in circulation. A court in Montenegro on Thursday found 14 people, including two Russians suspected of being spies, guilty of plotting a coup in 2016 to prevent the tiny Balkan country from joining NATO. Prosecutors did not directly accuse the Russians of working for Moscow, but the case turned up possible evidence of an operation by the Russian military intelligence agency formerly known as the G.R.U. of using a nerve agent to poison a former Russian spy living in Britain last year and numerous other operations in the West. The agency has also been accused of interfering in the United States election in 2016. The Russians, who were tried in absentia and are believed to be in Russia, knowingly tried to terrorize Montenegrins, attack others, threaten and hurt basic constitutional and social structures, the judge, Susana Mugosa, said on Thursday in court in Podgorica, the capital. Judge Mugosa sentenced the two, who were referred to throughout the trial by the pseudonyms on their fake passports, Eduard V. Shirokov and Vladimir N. Popov, to 15 and 12 years in prison. It is unlikely they will serve the terms. ROME Pope Francis on Thursday issued the first law obligating officials in the Roman Catholic Church worldwide to report cases of clergy sexual abuse and attempts to cover it up to their superiors. The decree was Francis long-anticipated concrete response to address a crisis that has devastated the church and clouded his legacy. Vatican officials said the pope was trying to enshrine accountability for bishops into church law. Until now, responses to accusations of sexual abuse have differed widely from country to country, and even from diocese to diocese. In some countries where church officials have denied the existence of abuse, there have often been no procedures at all. The new law does not universally require church officials to report abuse accusations to the police and prosecutors, a decision that was immediately criticized by abuse survivors and their advocates. Vatican officials have argued that a global requirement to report to civil authorities would, in some places, result in victims being ostracized or priests being persecuted. However, the new rules say that church officials should not interfere with investigations by civil authorities. Significant measures in the new law say that accusers and whistle-blowers are to be protected from retribution; qualified laypeople can assist church officials in their investigations; and initial investigations of abuse cases must be completed within 90 days, speeding up the current process drastically. ISTANBUL Ekrem Imamoglu spent just 17 days as the mayor of Istanbul before the election council of Turkey annulled the vote and forced him from office. But the short peek he gained into the dealings of the mayors office revealing dozens of cars at his disposal, millions budgeted for officials homes, and a city sinking into debt gave him ammunition in the political battle ahead. He fully intends to use it before the new election on June 23. The campaign will be an uphill one: He is aiming to wrench Istanbul away from President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who as president, prime minister and mayor, has controlled the city as a fief for 25 years. Mr. Imamoglu delivered a humiliating blow to Mr. Erdogan with his victory over Binali Yildrim, the candidate of the presidents party, on March 31, but Turkeys High Election Council wiped away that defeat, making clear that the president who has seemed invincible for so long would continue to fight. Still, Mr. Imamoglu said that his brief time in office made him determined to expose and put an end to wasteful spending in Istanbul. Administrators in West Warwick were happy to accept her donation of $4,000 and apply it to students' accounts, Penta told WPRI. That district, which is separate from Warwick Public Schools, also announced that students would no longer be denied a hot meal based on their ability to pay. In Warwick, things went very differently. On Sunday, Penta wrote on Facebook that she had met with district officials about paying off students' lunch debt on two separate occasions, and tried to offer them an additional $4,000. The second time, she said, she had left in tears after they refused to accept the check. As a result, the recent news that students who couldn't afford lunch would be getting a cold sandwich came as a blow to her. "To me, a sunbutter and jelly sandwich is lunch shaming, because you're basically telling all the other kids that you can't afford lunch and you don't have any lunch money," she told WPRI. In a statement to local media, Warwick officials said that they had to turn down the money because otherwise they would have had to decide which students it should benefit. Children in school often get free or reduced lunches and sometimes breakfast, Henk said. There are summer feeding programs, but there are many children that cant take advantage of that. We see an increase at our food pantries of families coming in because their children are home, and they need to be fed. As mail carriers are working to deliver mail and collect donated goods, Henk advises residents to be patient and have their contributions ready. Ill have a guy here that Saturday, going around and taking it off their trucks, Youngblood said. We bring it up to the post office, we put it in bins and the food bank comes by to pick it up. Its a worthy cause. Theres a lot of people in the community that can use this food. I highly recommend people participate in it. Its a good deed we try to do for the community. Neighbors helping neighbors According to Henk, the number of donations has dwindled significantly over the years, and she encourages residents to surpass last years collection of more than 18,000 pounds. We give each parent a hang tag with a barcode catered to their child, Johnson said. Each student is assigned a state ID number. Theres a barcode that goes with it, sending the message to us in the building. We scan each hang tag, and the system shows us the name of the student and the cars they are getting in. According to Johnson, if a parent arrives without a hang tag, the student cannot be called, encouraging the parent to enter the facility and display their identification as an extra safety measure. When the attorney general sends out the criteria for the safety schools award, we look and see what we are doing that matches up with that criteria, said Chris Hardman, Auburn City Schools safe schools coordinator. When I think about Richland Elementary specifically, I think about their emergency operations plan. They have worked very hard to get that to a place where that plan works. 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DUBLIN, Ohio, 9 May 2019Orange County Library System, headquartered in Orlando, Florida, has signed on to implement OCLC Wise, the first community engagement system for U.S. public libraries. Orange County Library System (OCLS) joins a growing list of leading public libraries that have partnered as early adopters for Wise. This holistic system takes community engagement and collection management to a new level by combining the power of customer relationship management, marketing, and analytics with integrated library system (ILS) functionality, such as circulation and acquisitions. Wise is different; its designed around people, not the collection. It supports libraries continued shift into dynamic centers of activity and expands the impact libraries have on their communities. OCLS continues to expand the role of the library in the community, said Skip Prichard, OCLC President and CEO. Whether its through the Dorothy Lumley Melrose Center for Technology, or through brilliant programs for life-long learning, OCLS is a leader in the community and a leader in the library profession. We are fortunate to be working with OCLS staff who bring passion, vision and significant experience to our Wise early adopter group. The Orange County Library System is proud to partner with OCLC to bring an exciting new user experience to our customers, said OCLS Library Director/CEO Mary Anne Hodel. Its part of our mission to make the customer our hero, and we believe that Wise helps us fulfill that mandate by providing us with tools to help us better determine what our customers want, develop a collection that meets our communitys needs, and to more effectively communicate with the people who use our services. OCLS is a source of pride and inspiration in its community, providing a variety of diverse experiences and innovative services for customers. An example is the librarys Materials Access from Your Library (MAYL) program, which provides free home delivery of book requests. Whats happening at OCLS is incredibly importantthey are pushing the boundaries to find new and interesting ways to support their community. We look forward to working with OCLS to help us expand that support through OCLC Wise, said Mary Sauer-Games, OCLC Vice President, Global Product management. OCLC is actively recruiting early adopter partnerships for Wise. This special group of libraries will work closely and collaborate with OCLC's product team to evaluate ongoing development opportunities and to shape future library innovation. Wise is the first community engagement system for U.S. public libraries. The system is currently used by more than 75 percent of public libraries in the Netherlands and has been tailored to address the specific needs of U.S. public libraries. OCLC will work with early adopters, other public libraries, and the library community at large to help inform Wise development efforts. Learn more about Wise at oc.lc/wise. A vlogger from China who live-streamed herself trying to eat a live Pacific octopus ended up screaming in pain after the marine creature used its suckers to attach itself to her face. The young woman, who goes by seaside girl Little Seven on popular Chinese video platform Kuaishou, was allegedly planning to eat the octopus on camera, although the video begins with the creature already stuck to her face. She can be heard calmly telling her fans look how hard its sucking before realizing that she cant actually remove it without pulling on it really hard. At one point, it looks like her left cheek might come off as she struggles to detach the octopus while screaming painful and I cant remove it. When the octopus finally lets go of her face, the Chinese vlogger notices that shes actually missing a small piece of skin on her cheek, and says My face is disfigured. Holding the octopus in her hand, she remembers the original plan for her video, telling her fans Ill eat it in the next video. According to National Geographic, the arms of an octopus are lined with hundreds of suckers which can be moved independently thanks to a complex network of neurons that acts as a brain. The suckers allow the animal touch, smell, and manipulate objects. Cephalopod expert Jennifer Mather, PhD, a professor of psychology at the University of Lethbridge in Alberta, told VICE News that an octopus can anticipate a painful, difficult, stressful situation they can remember it, which may explain its behavior in the video. Its unclear whether seaside girl Little Seven wanted to eat the octopus, or purposely got it to stick to her face for views, but she got the attention she was looking for. Her video quickly went viral in China, and has since been shared on western social media as well. The response hasnt exactly been positive, though. She deserves it. She tried to eat the octopus and the octopus tried to eat her too, one Weibo user commented. If I was an octopus trying to be eaten alive I would have done the same. Serves her right, another person wrote. Masonique Saunders Was Charged With Killing Her Boyfriend After Police Shot Him, Now She Agrees To Plea Deal Elijah C. Watson Elijah Watson serves as Okayplayer's News & Culture Editor. When The incident occurred back in December 2018. Last year, Ohio teen Julius Ervin Tate, Jr., was fatally shot by police officers during a sting operation, but it was the teens girlfriend Masonique Saunders and not the officers who was arrested and charged with felony murder for her role in his death. READ: Teenager Lakeith Smith Sentenced To 65 Years For Death Of Friend Killed By Cop Now, Saunders has reached a plea deal in the case of Tate. In a report from WOSU, Saunders pleaded guilty to involuntary manslaughter and aggravated robbery to avoid being tried as an adult. The decison was announced by Franklin County Judge James Brown Thursday. Saunders faces up to three years in prison but can be released early after two years based on good behavior. Columbus Police sought to try Saunders as an adult (she was 16 when the incident took place), with Franklin County Prosecutor OBrien saying that trial as an adult is mandatory for murder charges. However, the Prosecutors Office ended up accepting Saunders plea deal to lesser charges. The incident that the case stems from took place in December of last year. Undercover police set up a meeting on social media with Tate to buy something from him but the meeting was actually a sting operation. Police claimed that Tate drew a gun on an officer during the meeting. The suspect approached the officer, produced a weapon, robbed the officer, Columbus police spokesperson Sgt. Chantay Boxill said. At that time the cover officer fired at the suspect. The police accused Tate of committing at least two previous armed robberies, while Saunders was charged with his murder since she was with Tate at the scene of the crime. Under what historically has been called felony murder, which means that youre still responsible for a murder if you cause the death of another as an approximate result of committing certain kinds of serious offenses, police spokesperson Denise Alex-Bouzounis said at the time. Source: WOSU You say you love The Lord of the Rings. But do you love it enough to sit in the theater for 12 straight hours? Alamo Drafthouse has a challenge for you. On Saturday, the theater will screen all three films all 686 minutes of them straight through. The fun starts at 10:30 a.m. at Alamo Midtown. Breaks will come in the form of 20-minute end credits at the end of each film. Otherwise, the extended editions of The Fellowship of the Ring, The Two Towers and The Return of the King will play back-to-back. This week, Alamo Midtown will also screen the noir film The Third Man at 7:15 p.m. Thursday, a Mothers Day brunch edition of Dirty Dancing at 11 a.m. Sunday and a quote-along of comedy Three Amigos! at 7 p.m. Monday. Alamo La Vista will screen the horror film I Saw the Devil at 10 p.m. Saturday, a quote-along of Dolly Partons 9 to 5 at 6:30 p.m. Sunday and Godzilla on Monster Island at 7 p.m. Tuesday. Hail Satan? gets special screening at Film Streams Both the guest conductor and guest soloist for this weekends Omaha Symphony MasterWorks concert are making their debuts with the symphony. Ruth Reinhardt will conduct Tchaikovskys 5th on Saturday and Sunday at the Holland Center, 1200 Douglas St. The program features Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovskys Symphony No. 5 in E Minor and his Cossack Dance from the opera Mazeppa. Guest violinist Alexi Kenney will perform with the symphony on Antonin Dvoraks Violin Concerto in A Minor to round out the program. Reinhardt recently made her debut with the Royal Stockholm Philharmonic and was a Dudamel Fellow of the Los Angeles Philaharmonic last season. She also was assistant conductor of the Dallas Symphony. She has been busy: Her other symphony debuts this season were in Fort Worth, Texas; Orlando, Florida; Portland, Oregon; Santa Fe, New Mexico; and Sarasota, Florida. The New York Times said Kennedy is a talent to watch, with an architects eye for structure and space and a tone that ranges from the achingly fragile to full-bodied robustness. He is guest concertmaster for the Pittsburgh Symphony and the Mahler Chamber Orchestra, and has been a guest artist for a number of American symphonies. With their support system and the success of their son in mind, the Colleges confidently started the adoption process again. When filling out the form for their next adoption, they were sure to check the box indicating they would adopt a child with a cleft lip and/or palate. On July 6, 2010, 14-month-old Noah joined the College family. Like his adoptive brother, Noah had a cleft lip and palate, but Kari and Scott were confident he could be just as successful with the help of Boys Town Hospital. With their care plan well underway, Eli and Noah are happy, healthy boys. Their parents joke that the youngsters complete each other. They began their lives as young strangers with cleft lips on opposite sides. Theyve grown to be brothers whose personalities are compatibly different. Boys Town has been life-changing for our boys, Scott said. The professional medical help and care we have received has far surpassed anything we could have expected. Over the years, they have become an extended family to us. You can tell they care about our boys and their development and well-being. And were not asking them to give up anything, Linehan said. She also questioned what the big school districts will do if a referendum that calls for a 35% refund of property taxes qualifies for the 2020 ballot and is approved. That will mean real budget cuts, Linehan said. The senator needs to show that at least 33 of the one-house Legislatures 49 senators support LB 289 before it could return for debate. Support for the bill is probably less than 25, some legislative observers said Wednesday. Already, Omaha Sen. John McCollister is working on an alternative plan to LB 289 that would be more palatable to the large school districts, which are worried about the long-term fiscal sustainability of the Linehan bill. Both he and Omaha Sen. Brett Lindstrom said that any property tax relief plan, if it is going to pass, must also gain the support of the 18 Democrats in the Legislature, which was clearly lacking during Tuesdays debate on LB 289. We can fund the University of Nebraska above and beyond what the governor recommended, but we cant find $5 million to keep our elections safe, Erdman said, referring to a request from the Nebraska Secretary of States office for new voting machines. Brainard Sen. Bruce Bostelman also questioned why the lights and video scoreboard are left on at Memorial Stadium in Lincoln when he drives by early in the morning on non-game days. Senators, he said, need to stop looking at the universitys spending through rose-colored glasses. But Lincoln Sens. Anna Wishart and Kate Bolz, who sit on the Appropriations Committee along with Erdman, defended the added spending on NU. Bolz said the states current spending on the university system is actually 8.5% lower than it was in 2016-17, and Wishart said the spending is an investment in the states future that will help keep tuition rates reasonable. Stinner, who chairs the committee, said he gets that some people want to bash the university. But he said that the NU campuses all spend less than their peer institutions and that a 3% overall hike in the budget was marginal. If thats too much, Ive got a problem with that analysis, he said. So you see, the counties will claim damages. If any damages are awarded ... monies will dwindle quickly or be all gone, Domina said. I know that is not what you want to hear. No matter who you are or the circumstances, the law is specific. Domina said Wednesday that hes been retained by a couple of the downstream landowners to investigate possible claims against the district, but he declined to name the clients. District spokesman Mark Becker reaffirmed the districts stance: An unprecedented amount of water and mammoth pieces of floating ice besieged a dam that was designed for the generation of electricity, not for flood control. Domina said there is no doubt that the rivers have been reconfigured since 1954, but it would take a lot of science and engineering to prove who is responsible for the significant losses from that day of flooding. Nebraska state troopers recovered a handgun Thursday at the Nebraska State Office Building in Lincoln. Someone told troopers about 10:10 a.m. that there was a gun in a bathroom in the building, 301 Centennial Mall South. Troopers recovered the gun, which was "mistakenly left" by an investigator with the Nebraska Department of Agriculture, the patrol said in a press release. No shots were fired and no one was injured. Officials urge anyone who finds an unattended gun to report it to authorities. Be the first to know Get local news delivered to your inbox! Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Omahas Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium continues to win plaudits, and rightly so. The zoo has developed into a top regional tourism draw and an institution respected internationally for its global zoological and ecological work. The latest praise for the zoo comes via its No. 2 ranking, for the second year in a row, in an annual online USA Today poll. The result is consistent with its high national rankings of Americas best zoos. The zoo is Nebraskas No. 1 tourist site and a key economic asset for Omaha. More than 1.6 million people visit the complex each year, generating an annual economic impact exceeding $200 million, including visitor spending on lodging, meals and other items. City leaders have underscored the zoos importance for the city. Mayor Jean Stothert last year proposed, and the City Council unanimously approved, an increase in the City of Omahas financial support to the zoo, drawing on keno revenues. The city is committing to give the nonprofit that runs the zoo $2.4 million in 2021, increasing 5.5 percent a year to $3.8 million in 2030. More than 90,000 households have zoo memberships, an indicator of strong community support and connection. Just last month, Immanuels Lakeside Village campus celebrated the opening of Lakeside Lofts as well as Thrive by Immanuel Wellness Center and Day Spa and three new restaurants on the campus including The Reserve, an upscale, intimate fine-dining experience for residents of Lakeside Village, Lakeside Lofts and their families. Were listening to area seniors as well as our current residents, said Knecht. Theyre wanting a home that fits their lifestyle, where they have access to robust wellness amenities and dining venues they are eager to invite their families to enjoy. Strong families is something Knecht has seen to be a big influence for new retirees. She said many are hesitant to move to retirement communities for fear of losing family traditions. Life transitions are never easy. Seniors worry about downsizing their home, about staying connected to families and continuing to host holidays and birthdays. Thats why were designing amenities and features to answer those questions. Yes, you can still host Christmas. Yes, you can still build memories with your loved ones. Now, you just dont have to mow the lawn or shovel the snow. Learning English makes it easier to help my children, Tamang says. Helping with homework is not so difficult now. And I have homework too, so we (do it) together. In South Omaha, the Learning Community expanded a workforce skills pilot program in partnership with Metropolitan Community College. Parents say they are excited to earn valuable workforce certifications and quickly gain confidence in their own resourcefulness and career strengths. Salazar is participating in the pilot program with Metro. All of my classmates are so nice and we support each other, she says. We work together to make our families lives better. I would like to work so I can help my husband, buy a house and help my parents. By earning a GED or workplace certifications, Salazar and her classmates will be prepared for better jobs and continuing education. Education and resilience among parents and children lead to stronger families and thriving communities, Patton says. Offer a personal message of sympathy... By sharing a fond memory or writing a kind tribute, you will be providing a comforting keepsake to those in mourning. If you have an existing account with this site, you may log in with that below. Otherwise, you can create an account by clicking on the Log in button below, and then register to create your account. A touching deed of an auto driver who took care of an abandoned baby girl for 18 days Feature oi-Madhuri Adnal Bengaluru, May 09: Living in a selfish world, we are often forced to question our ethics and wonder whether there is any humanity left at all. But sometimes, a random act of kindness by a stranger restores our faith in humanity and gives you hope that maybe all isn't lost yet. And so, here's the story of a touching deed of an auto driver who took care of an abandoned baby girl for 18 days. On April 15, an 29-year-old auto driver came to rescue of a heavily pregnant woman who was crying for help in the busy Whitefield road. Baby born amid fury of the storm named after Cyclone Fani The auto driver identified as Babu Mudrappa saw a mother undergoing into labour on the busy Whitefield road and repeatedly crying for help. Looking at her sorry state, Babu offered to take her to the nearby Vydehi hospital. But the doctors advised him to take her to the CV raman hospital where the woman was admitted. Babu while admitting her didn't know nothing about her, except her name Nanditha. He later filled the admission forms with his details. Onthe same around 9:30 pm, the woman gave birth to a baby girl but all was not well. It was a premature baby at 7 months and it had many health complication. The new born couldn't breath properly and the doctor advised Babu to take the infant to Bowring Hospital. At around 11:30 pm, Babu took the new born and rushed to the Bowring Hospital and finished the admission formalities. On April 16, when Babu returned to CV Raman Hospital to check on the mother, he was told that she fled from the hospital. Babu felt bad for the woman whose circumstances had forced her to fled from the hospital and abandon the child. Later Babu, who is married and is a father of two children thought in time but to adopt this baby girl. But his happiness was however, short lived. On May 3, the baby had breathing trouble and on doctors advise, he had bought milk powder and medicines for the baby. The next day, Babu got a call that the baby had died. He was devastated upon hearing this news and he later filed a complaint in Indiranagar police station requesting them to find the woman who had abandoned the baby and ask them to take legal action against her. Photo of Dad 'breastfeeding' baby goes viral while mom recovers from C-section complications Babu also requested the police to hand over the baby so that he could perform the last rites. Meanwhile, he refused to reveal how much money did he spent on the child and hospital bills. Babu said A case has been registered and the police are on the lookout for the woman named, Nanditha. The infant's body has been sent for post-mortem. IAF officer arrested on rape charges in Coimbatore, sent to judicial custody Accused of rape, actor Karan Oberoi sent to judicial custody for 14 days India oi-Madhuri Adnal Mumbai, May 09: Actor Karan Oberoi who was accused in the case of rape and extortion, sent to judicial custody for 14 days. According to reports, the actor ho was last seen in Amazon Prime's Inside Edge broke down during the court proceeding on May 6. An FIR was registered at Oshiwara Police Station in Mumbai under sections 376 (rape) and 384 (extortion) of the Indian Penal Code against Oberoi. Actor Karan Oberoi of Jassi Jaisi Koi Nahin fame arrested on charges of rape, blackmail According to the woman who accused Karan of rape, the Jassi Jaissi Koi Nahi actor was in a relationship with her since 2016 and he raped her on the pretext of marrying her. Oberoi not only raped the woman and filmed the act but also demanded money from the victim threatening to release the video if she did not pay up, they said quoting the FIR. In 2018, the woman had filed a non-cognisable complaint against Karan. Actor Karan Oberoi started his TV journey with Mahesh Bhatt's Swabhimaan, where he played Bobby and went on to star in shows like Saaya and Jassi Jaisi Koi Nahi. He was also a member of A Band of Boys, which was formed in 2001. Karan Oberoi's friends Pooja Bedi and members of his band have come out in support of the actor and held a press meet on May 7. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Thursday, May 9, 2019, 14:18 [IST] Terror business as usual at Balakot a year after it was hit India's armed forces now do not hesitate to cross border to protect country, says Rakshya Mantri One year of Balakot airstrike: 'It marks paradigm shift in our operations', says Ex-IAF chief Dhanoa Balakot air strike killed 130-170 JeM terrorists claims Italian journalist India oi-Oneindia Staff By Anuj Cariappa New Delhi, May 09: Amidst all the claims and counter claims, an Italian journalist has now revealed that 130 to 170 Jaish-e-Mohammad terrorists were killed in the Balakot air strike. A report on tringerasia.it by Italian journalist Francesca Marino, says that those killed range from trainers to bomb makers to those imparting weapons training. The report also said that two of the trainers were from Afghanistan. The journalist also claimed that 45 terrorists are undergoing treatment at a facility near the camp, while 20 others may have died while being treated. In her report, she says that around 6 am, two and a half hours after the strike, an army unit arrived from the Shinkiari camp. After the arrival, the injured were taken to a Harkat-ul-Mujahideen camp and treated by the Pakistan army doctors. Post Balakot, IAF speaks of better technological asymmetry The report titled "Balakot: More details awaited' states that in order to prevent the news of the fatalities from leaking, a team of the JeM visited the families of those killed and handed over cash compensation to them. Further she claims that all the camps are still under the control of the army and access to the camp remains restricted. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Thursday, May 9, 2019, 6:03 [IST] Can BJP counter Rafale with Bofors: Two contentious deals that are very different India oi-Vikas SV New Delhi, May 09: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is playing its cards intelligently as the final two rounds of the seven-phase Lok Sabha elections 2019 draw near. Prime Minister Narendra Modi seems to be dragging former prime minister Rajiv Gandhi's name into current political discourse with an intention. It is well known that whenever Rajiv Gandhi's name starts doing rounds in political debates, what follows is the Bofors scandal and 1984 anti Sikh-Riots. With the Congress going all guns blazing over Rafale allegations, the BJP wants to counter it by bringing the Bofors issue into the picture because the saffron party stands to gain if a comparison is made between the two contentious defence deals. Another purpose that Modi's remarks on Rajiv Gandhi serves is that it would elicit response from Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi, and that would weaken the relentless attack that the brother-sister duo have launched on BJP. The BJP wants that the two deals be compared because the Bofors case not only cost Rajiv Gandhi his Prime Ministership, but also severely dented Congress' reputation way back in 1989. Has Congress fallen into 'Rajiv Gandhi trap' of PM Modi The Congress on its part is trying to create a kind of political environment for the ruling party that the grand old party itself faced in late 1980s when Rajiv Gandhi's government eventually fell. Why BJP stands to gain with Rafale-Bofors comparison? Rafale and Bofors are defence deals, and the similarity stops at that. To try and draw parallels between the two would really be unfair because of fundamental differences in the manner in which these deals were executed. Bofors deal was about corruption and kickbacks while Rafale allegations are about favouring a particular private entity as an offset partner over the state-owned Hindustan Aeronautics Limited. There are some allegations over the final agreed price of Rafale jets also, but that is a small part of the main allegation which is about alleged preference given to Anil Ambani's firm. As of now, there are no allegations of corruption, kickbacks and a middleman facilitating the deal when it comes to Rafale issue. There is also no Quattrocchi-like element in the Rafale matter. But we ought to keep in mind former French president Francois Hollande's claim that Indian government pressed for Anil Ambani's firm to be made as an offset partner. The two deals and the controversy: Explained The Congress-led United Progressive Alliance government had put out a tender for 126 fighter jets and had planned to buy 18 Rafale fighters in fly-away condition from Dassault, with the remaining to be built in India along with the state-owned Hindustan Aeronautics Limited. In 2015, however, on a visit to France, Modi announced a completely new deal, in which India would be getting 36 Rafale jets from France, all in fly-away condition. Under the terms of this Rs 59,000 crore deal, all the planes would be built in France, but Dassault would have to offset about 50 per cent of that cost in India. In this case, Dassault has to ensure that 50 per cent of the Rs 59,000 crore that India will be paying it for the Rafale aircraft ends up being invested in the Indian defence system. 'Hurt by what PM said about Rajiv Gandhi', says Sam Pitroda The Rajiv Gandhi government decided to replace the old field guns and artillery with the induction of a bigger caliber 155 mm howitzers. A deal was signed in 1986 between the Indian government and Swedish Armament major AB Bofors for $285 million i.e. roughly about 1500 crores rupees. About a year later, on 16 April 1987, Swedish Radio alleged that Bofors paid kickbacks to people from a number of countries including top Swedish and Indian politicians and key defence officials to seal the deal. The middleman associated with the scandal was Ottavio Quattrocchi, an Italian businessman who represented the petrochemicals firm Snamprogetti. Quattrocchi was reportedly close to the family of Rajiv Gandhi and emerged as a powerful broker in the 1980s between big businesses and the Indian government. Why are eyebrows being raised over involvement of Anil Ambani's firm? Dassault is free to work with any Indian company to complete its offset obligations, subject of course to approval by the government. But soon after the agreement was completed, it became clear that the bulk of that Rs 30,000 crore that has to be invested in the Indian ecosystem will be channelled through Dassault Reliance Aerospace, a joint venture established between Anil Ambani's Reliance Aerostructure and Dassault. What the opposition, especially the Congress, is now asking is why the HAL was sidelined. The question is pertinent in the sense that the original deal on Rafale was supposed to include the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited. Parl panel on Science and Technology meets for first time since lockdown SC pulls up Centre for not filing reply on Jairam Rameshs plea against amended RTI Act Court grants bail to Jairam Ramesh in defamation case by NSA Ajit Dovals son India oi-Madhuri Adnal New Delhi, May 09: A Delhi court on Thursday granted bail to Congress leader Jairam Ramesh in connection with a defamation case filed by NSA Ajit Doval's son Vivek. The court also framed charges against Ramesh and the other two accused in the case after they pleaded not guilty. Delhi's Rouse Avenue Court granted bail to Jairam Ramesh on personal bond and surety of Rs 20,000 each in criminal defamation case against him and Caravan magazine by Vivek Doval. The next date of hearing is 27 May. NSA Doval's son get 'Z' category security cover The court last month exempted Ramesh from personally appearing before it but asked him to be present today. It had earlier granted bail to the Editor-in-Chief of The Caravan and a reporter from the same magazine. The Caravan had alleged in its article that Vivek Doval, "runs a hedge fund in the Cayman Islands" which is "an established tax haven". On January 30, Vivek had recorded his statement before the court, saying all the allegations levelled by the magazine and later repeated by Ramesh at a press conference were "baseless" and "false" and damaged his reputation in the eyes of family members and colleagues. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Thursday, May 9, 2019, 12:02 [IST] Economy has reached a disastrous phase under Modi: PC India oi-Oneindia Staff By Anuj Cariappa New Delhi, May 09: Senior Congress leader P Chidambaram has said macro economic indicators confirm that the Indian economy has entered a "disastrous phase of slowdown" and criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Finance Minister Arun Jaitley for their failures. He also accused Jaitley of perfecting the art of "concealing" data and projecting "doctored" information. "The Finance Ministry's report is a damning indictment of the state of the economy in the country. This is perhaps the weakest point in the economy," he told reporters here, adding the next government has a lot of work to repair the economy to which the BJP has done "great damage". 'Modi has crossed all limits of decency', says Chidambaram on 'Bhrashtachari No. 1' remark "With each passing day, as Modi indulges in vile rhetoric, the Finance Minister blogs poor attempts at rationalising that language. Between the rhetoric and the blogging, this government has forgotten the economy. The next government has a huge task of reviving the economy. Thankfully, the Congress party is ready to steer the Indian economy out of the Modi-Jaitley slump," he said. The former Finance minister said the economy has gone to "rack and ruin" and the Finance Ministry's report for March 2019 lays bare the "false propaganda" of the BJP government. "The NSSO revelations have blown a huge hole in the growth figures put out by the CSO. It turns out that the government has been using bogus data. "The CSO's growth figures are a sham. The CSO's complicity in putting out false data is a scam that needs to be investigated first," he said, alleging that the political leadership has "interfered" and "intimidated" the Central Statistics Office (CSO) and the National Sample Survey Office (NSSO). "However much Modi may try to take the narrative away from the economy, ultimately the people will vote on issues that affect their daily lives -- jobs, infrastructure, investment, farmers' distress and debt, ruin of MSMEs, stagnant incomes," he noted. The Congress leader said the Indian economy has entered a "disastrous" phase of economic slowdown under the Modi-Jaitley "jugalbandi" reflected by the consistent fall in quarterly growth of real GDP. He claimed that a shortfall of Rs 1.6 lakh crore in the tax revenues would effectively increase the actual fiscal deficit to 3.9 per cent and "the economy is expected to slow down further". He said once in power, the Congress will adopt a sectoral approach to revive various sectors of economy and find a solution to each of them, besides consolidating banks. "The Finance Minister has perfected the art of concealing data and projecting doctored information. Contrary to the false narratives of the Modi Government, the poorest Indians have been worst sufferers of the economic mismanagement," he said. Why does Imran want Modi to continue as India's PM, asks P Chidambaram The former minister said the Oxfam's Global Inequality Report 2018 showed that 73 per cent of the wealth generated in India in 2017-2018 was pocketed by the richest 1 per cent of the Indian populace, while the poorest 50 per cent saw a marginal increase of 1 per cent in their wealth over the same period. Chidambaram also dubbed the prime minister as being "the 'Naukri Vinash' PM" claiming that in 2018 India lost over 1.1 crore jobs and said Modi is the first premier whose legacy will be of a job destroying PM" built on the two "Tughlaqi farmans" of demonetisation and "Gabbar Singh Tax", referring to Goods and Services Tax (GST). "The leaked NSSO survey reports that the unemployment rate reached a 45-year high of 6.1 per cent in 2017 (nearly tripled from 2012), with the youth being the worst sufferers of the government's surgical strikes on jobs and the economy," he said. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Thursday, May 9, 2019, 6:30 [IST] In event of a non-BJP, Cong govt, a dark horse would emerge as Indias next PM India oi-Vicky Nanjappa New Delhi, May 09: Who will win the 2019 Lok Sabha elections. This is a million dollar question that everyone wants to know, but for a clear picture one would need to wait until May 23. The last two remaining phases are crucial and would be a real test for the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) as well the other opposition parties. A recent meeting between the chief ministers of Telangana and Kerala, K Chandrashekar Rao and Pinarayi Vijayan had raised eye-brows. Top political analyst Dr. Sandeep Shastri says that KCR is keeping all his options open. He would pitch tent with the party that is closer to forming the government. He is now seeing a non-BJP, non-Congress front emerging and in this event he senses a chance for himself. How political parties and their election symbols are amusing voters "At the end of the day for me, whether the NDA slides to 220 or rises to 280, it would be five to six states that would make all the difference. Whether the BJP is pushed to 20 or 50 in Uttar Pradesh is important as it would decide where the NDA stands". "The second is Rajasthan and this would be a crucial state. The third is Karnataka and one needs to see if the BJP would be ahead or will the Congress-JD(S) have the upper hand". "Many believe Maharashtra would see some change. It is said that within the NDA, the Shiv Sena is not doing too well. The BJP would actually carry the Shiv Sena with it. The other crucial states are West Bengal and Odisha. Will the BJP enter double digits in Bengal or can it put a hold on the BJD would be crucial factors. In the other states the trend is visible. I do not see any major change". "With regards to North East, it is important strategically, but not numerically. Even if the BJP were to do well, it would provide a marginal advantage. Other than Assam, none of the other states in this region have more than 2 Lok Sabha seats, says Dr. Shastri. We are talking about 28 seats in all. It is politically important, but is not an A factor," he also says. "In UP, the crucial factor would be the vote transfer. The fate of the Mahaghatbandan depends on this factor. It is the chemistry that would decide what happens in UP. It would depend on whether the vote transfer is 50 or 80 per cent. If it were to be 80 per cent, then this would be very bad news for the BJP," he adds. As battle shifts down South, a lot at stake for all parties "If there is a non-BJP, non-Congress government a lot of factors would depend on who the next prime minister of India would be. According to me there cannot be a non-BJP or non-Congress government totally. How critical would the Congress be is one factor". "I feel that at the end of the day, a dark horse could emerge as the PM in case a situation such as this emerges. I also do not see the Congress emerging as a big force. However if the BJP is unable to form the government, I don't see the party lending support to anyone. It would rather sit in opposition, force a collapse and hope that fresh elections are held," Dr. Shastri says. Will always be with you to fight injustice: Rahul Gandhi to media 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: Lok Sabha elections in UP: Here's what this Muslim-dominated village wants India pti-PTI Sanjarpur (Azamgarh), May 9: People in this Muslim-dominated village in Azamgarh district, which hogged the limelight as a "terror hub" after 2008 Batla House encounter in Delhi against suspected Indian Mujahideen (IM) terrorists who all belonged to it, have no expectations from politicians they just want to get rid of the 'terror tag' on their village. "We want to get rid of the terror tag on our village that has been given by the media after the Batla House encounter. We don't have much expectations from politicians who come and go. There are no issues before us but we only want authorities to ensure release of innocent youths caught by security agencies," Mohammad Shadab alias Mister, whose son Saif is lodged in Jaipur jail these days, told PTI. "When accused of Samjhauta Express and Malegaon blasts have been set free for lack of any proof. The youths of our village arrested after Batla House encounter should also get similar justice. They are all innocent like those who are accused of Samjhauta and Malegaon blast," he told a visiting PTI journalist. About Saif's involvement, his father said, "Undoubtedly he is innocent. The case is going on and no witness could stand in the court. There is no eye witness. All of them are policemen who are witness. The matter should be raised by politicians contesting polls. We are waiting for justice." [How political parties and their election symbols are amusing voters] In Batala House encounter, two suspected terrorists, Atif Amin and Mohamed Sajid, were killed. Other suspects Mohd Saif, Salman and Arif were arrested. All of them belong to Sanjarpur village, which is over 25 km from the Azamgarh district headquarters. In the charge sheet, police claimed Mohd Saif was also present in the flat in which the Batla House encounter took place on September 19, 2008 in the national capital. The prosecution claimed Saif had disclosed that he was involved in causing serial blasts in the national capital on September 13, 2008 in which 26 people were killed and 135 injured. Tariq Shafiq, a local and founder member of Rihai Manch, said the village will be exercising their franchise to elect it's representative expecting they will do something. [BJP ally Om Prakash Rajbhar resigns from Yogi Adityanath's UP govt] About their choice in the on going polls, he said, "We will vote for the less harmful one though no one has yet taken up the cause of the youths of this village. Everytime elections come, politicians and media visit us but no one really comes for the help." "The people here never expected such an allegation and label of terror on our village. We are fighting and what if one day all the youths are acquitted? How and who will they return their golden years," Tariq asked. After 2009, politicians like Samajwadi Party founder Mulayam Singh Yadav, Shivpal Yadav, Congress leader Digvijay Singh and others visited the village promising to take up the case, but nothing happened and stigma remained, he said. For social activist Mahisuddin Sanjari, "no one takes politicians seriously here. There are no issues here. There is an undercurrent of pro- and anti-Narendra Modi on which voting will be done". When asked about Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath's statement that Azamgarh was made terror hub by the SP, Sanjari said "Attempts are underway to polarise voters. But there is no reaction here as people have faced a lot and seen real face of politicians". "We have learnt a lot in the past 11 years with our experience. We know that we can get justice from legal fight," he says. Legendary Urdu poet Kaifi Azmi was born in this district. His actor-daughter Shabana Azmi is developing his birthplace Mizwaan. The area is also famous for the Shibli College, which was set up before Independence. Sanjarpur is a big village with over 6,000 voters including Muslims, Dalits, Yadavs and Gutpas. The village has a primary madarsa, a government-run primary school and junior high school, a primary health centre and recently some roads were made by local MLA, villagers said. Rashtriya Ulema Council President Maulana Aamir Rashadi, who organised protests in national and state capital as he took people from here on train said, "The innocent youths' release will pave way for removing the stigma. Our demand for unbiased probe remains." Azamgarh Lok Sabha constituency goes to polls on May 12 in the sixth phase of voting, with SP chief Akhilesh Yadav trying to retain his father's seat. PTI Mamata Didi's slap will also become a blessing for me, says Modi India oi-Madhuri Adnal New Delhi, May 09: Speaking at an election rally in West Bengal's Purulia, Prime Minister Modi on Thursday referred to West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee's purported remark about slapping him. The Prime Minister said, "I call her didi and respect her, her slap will become a blessing for me. I am ready to be slapped." Earlier on wednesday, Mamata Banerjee said that she feels like giving one tight slap of democracy to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Mamata Banerjee claimed that Narendra Modi deserved the slap for accusing her party Trinmool Congress of using extortion money. She likened the prime minister to Duryodhana, Dushayasana and Raavana. Mamata or Maya? Who will play the more crucial role in govt formation Addressing a rally, TMC chief said, "When Modi comes to Bengal and says that I am a top extortionist, I wish to give him one tight slap of democracy." Mamata Banerjee said that her party is run with money collected from the sale of her paintings, books and other work undertaken by her party as opposed to the extortion money as claimed by the BJP. Mamata Banerjee's statement came in reaction of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other BJP leaders' claim that TMC in Bengal is run on syndicate money. PM Modi's rallies in Bengal is being held amid a rancorous election campaigning by both the BJP and TMC which has seen West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee slamming the prime minister repeatedly. Why the prospects of the Mahagathbandhan will improve in the next two phases The BJP, which had managed to win just two seats in West Bengal in 2014, is hoping to better its seat tally this year. The Trinamool Congress had won all the eight seats in 2014 where voting will be held on Sunday. West Bengal sends 42 MPs to Lok Sabha. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Thursday, May 9, 2019, 12:44 [IST] India among most unequal nations; top 1 pc of population holds 22 pc of national income India reports 7,081 new COVID19 cases in the last 24 hours McDonald's India war with partner ends, will run outlet in 2 weeks India oi-PTI New Delhi, May 09: Estranged partners McDonald's and Vikram Bakshi on Thursday announced an out-of-court settlement, ending their almost six-year-long dispute. As part of the agreement, the US fast-food chain will buy out for an undisclosed sum Vikram Bakshi and his entities' 50 per cent stake in Connaught Plaza Restaurants Pvt Ltd (CPRL) that operates McDonald's chain of quick-service restaurants in northern and eastern India. The company also announced the appointment of Robert Hunghanfoo as Head of CPRL with immediate effect, who will be supported by McDonald's global leaders along with the CPRL team, to facilitate a smooth transition. "CPRL is now wholly owned by MIPL and its affiliate MGM (McDonald's Global Markets LLC) following the completion of a settlement reached with former JV partner, Vikram Bakshi...," the company said in a statement. It follows "the acquisition by MGM of 50 per cent voting equity shares in CPRL, held since inception by Bakshi and his affiliated entity". Commenting on the development, Hunghanfoo said: "Accomplishing a mutually agreed settlement in this matter means that our customers can now look forward to a reinvigorated, consistent and uniquely McDonald's experience when they visit us". During the transition, MIPL will be focused on two key areas providing employees with clarity and confidence in their future at McDonald's and leveraging its global system expertise to fortify high operating standards for our local customers. Ron Christianson, Global Head of Corporate Relations, International Developmental, Licensee Markets, McDonald's, said that the company is looking for a partner to run the operation in the north and east India. "We are still actively progressing the search for an ideal partner for North and East India. That process is still ongoing but certainly rest assured once we do, the ownership will transition to whoever the individual is," Christianson said. On Monday, the estranged partners McDonald's and Bakshi had told the NCLAT that they are working towards an out-of-court settlement to end their over five-year-old dispute. McDonald's and Bakshi in 1995 had signed a partnership agreement to open outlets of the US fast food chain in India. It was for a period of 25 years. The two partners had formed a 50:50 joint venture -- Connaught Plaza Restaurant Ltd (CPRL) -- which was responsible for outlets of the fast-food chain in the country's northern and eastern regions through the franchise route. The tussle between them started after Bakshi was ousted as the managing director of CPRL in 2013, following which he approached the Company Law Board (CLB). He was later reinstated as the MD of CPRL by National Company Law Tribunal (which had taken over CLB functions) on July 14, 2017 following which McDonald's approached the National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT). In 2017, McDonald's terminated CPRL's franchise agreement citing non-payment of royalties. A long-winding legal tussle and battle for control of the business ensued afterwards with Bakshi keeping around 165 McDonald's branded outlets operational in northern and eastern regions of the country. In southern and western regions, McDonald's outlets are run by Amit Jatia-led Westlife Development. In August 2017, McDonald's had told the NCLAT that settlement of a dispute with its estranged partner Bakshi was not possible. PTI For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Thursday, May 9, 2019, 23:03 [IST] Winter Session: Opposition to take out march protest against suspension of 12 MPs today Opposition MPs in both Houses march in protest from Gandhi statue to Vijay Chowk Opposition meet likely on May 21 to discuss post-poll scenario India pti-PTI New Delhi, May 08: Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu on Wednesday met Congress President Rahul Gandhi and discussed plans to hold a meeting of Opposition parties on May 21, two days ahead of Lok Sabha results to chalk out a post-poll alliance. Naidu met Gandhi before heading out to West Bengal to attend public rallies in support of the ruling Trinamool Congress in the state, sources said. In a brief meeting, the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) chief is believed to have discussed the voter-verified paper audit trail (VVPAT) issue, voting percentage in the recently held five phase polling besides the Andhra Assembly election developments, the sources said. The sources said Naidu and Gandhi also discussed the post-poll scenario and more or less agreed to call a meeting of Opposition parties on May 21. The Lok Sabha elections are being held in seven phases. So far, polling in five phases are over and the counting of votes will be on May 23. Naidu will be meeting West Bengal Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee apart from attending her rallies on Wednesday and Thursday. The Andhra Pradesh CM was in Delhi to attend the Supreme Court hearing on a petition filed by the Opposition parties to review its judgment rejecting 50 per cent random physical verification of EVMs using VVPATs. The apex court dismissed the petition following which the parties again met the Election Commission to press their demand. PTI PUBG, MOMO challenge now legal in Gujarat's Rajkot India oi-Madhuri Adnal Rajkot, May 9: Hours after the Gujarat High Court sought Vijay Rupani government's response over the extension on the ban on popular online games PUBG and MOMO challenge, the Rajkot police on Wednesday lifted the ban with immediate effect. The city police has withdrawn its notification dating March 6 this year which imposed a ban on two popular multiplayer online games - PUBG and MOMO Challenge. A fresh notification was issued at 8pm on Wednesday, which declared that playing both the mobile games under Rajkot police's jurisdiction is now legal. A petition was filed before the court which sought quashing of the ban order, calling it a violation of an individual's right to freedom. This teen is so addicted to video games that his mother hand-feeds him as he goes on playing Rajkot Police Commissioner Manoj Agrawal said the police had received representations from various youth groups who had opposed the ban. After reviewing their requests, the police department decided to cancel its earlier notification which turned PUBG and MOMO illegal under its jurisdiction. The top cop, however, defended his erstwhile decision of imposing the ban, saying that it was in the interest of the city's youth and students. The ban aimed at controlling the level of aggression in children and preventing the deterioration of their behaviour, language and development. It was also to ensure that the "studies are not affected", Agrawal said. Earlier on March 9, Gujarat police had banned PlayerUnknown's Battlegrounds (PUBG) in Rajkot and booked 10 people for playing PUBG. Gujarat police had notified that if people were caught playing PUBG then they can be prosecuted under section 188 of IPC. Unable to get job due to Covid-19, 24-year-old MPSC aspirant commits suicide in Pune 14-year-old minor girl abducted and raped in Pune; 8 including six auto drivers, two Railways employees held Pune: 5 killed in fire at cloth godown in Uruli Devachi village India oi-Madhuri Adnal Pune, May 09: At least five labourers were killed in a massive fire that broke out this morning at a cloth godown in Uruli Devachi village of Maharashtra's Pune district. The incident happened when the labourers were asleep in a room when the fire broke out at around 5 am at the cloth godown in Uruli Devachi village, news agency IANS reported quoting an official of Pune Police (Rural). Mumbai: Fire breaks out after cylinder blast at apartment in Andheri; 2 injured Four fire tenders were rushed to the spot. The fire has now been controlled and the injured have been rushed to hospital. The cause of fire has not yet been confirmed. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Thursday, May 9, 2019, 11:36 [IST] Air Pollution: You want to ban industries in Pakistan? Court asks UP govt SC Collegium rejects govts objection on elevation of two judges India oi-Vicky Nanjappa New Delhi, May 09: The Supreme Court Collegium is learnt to have reiterated its decision on the elevation of two judges after the Centre had rejected the names. The Collegium while rejecting the objections raised by the government reiterated its recommendation to elevate the two judges to the Supreme Court. The decision comes after the government returned to the Collegium names of two high court chief justices recommended for elevation as judges of the Supreme Court. SC says it can't interfere with EC clean chits to PM, Amit Shah On April 12, the Supreme Court collegium had recommended the names of Jharkhand high court Chief Justice Aniruddha Bose, and Gauhati high court Chief Justice A S Bopanna for elevation to the top court. Seniority and representation of regions have been cited as reasons behind the government's decision. While Justice Bose whose parent high court is Calcutta, is at number 12 in all-India seniority of judges, Justice Bopanna, whose parent high court is Karnataka, stands at number 36. Last year, the government had returned Justice Bose's name to the collegium when he was recommended to head the Delhi high court. "While recommending the names of Justices Aniruddha Bose and A S Bopanna, the collegium has taken into consideration, apart from their merit and integrity, combined seniority on all-India basis of chief justices and senior puisne judges of high courts. "The collegium has also kept in mind the desirability of giving due representation on the bench of the Supreme Court, as far as possible, to all the high courts," the collegium resolution had read. SC asks EC to examine Tej Bahadur Yadav's plea against rejection of his candidature in Varanasi The Calcutta High Court is represented in the Supreme Court by Justice Indira Banerjee. Justices S M Mallikarjnagouda and S Abdul Nazeer represent the Karnataka HC. At present, the Supreme Court has a working strength of 27. Its sanctioned strength is 31 judges, including the chief justice. SC dismisses plea to debar Rahul Gandhi from contesting LS polls India oi-Madhuri Adnal New Delhi, May 09: The Supreme Court on Thursday dismissed the petition seeking to direct the Election Commission of India (ECI) to debar Congress President Rahul Gandhi from contesting the Lok Sabha polls after he had "voluntarily acquired British nationality." The Home Ministry had recently served a notice to Gandhi asking him to clarify within a fortnight his "factual position" on a complaint questioning his citizenship status. The plea filed in the top court has said that the petitioners were "dissatisfied" with the "inaction" of the Centre and the poll panel in "deciding the question of voluntary acquisition of British citizenship" by Gandhi in spite of a November 2015 communication by BJP leader Subramanian Swamy in this regard. The petitioners -- Jai Bhagwan Goyal and C P Tyagi -- have alleged that since prima facie evidence in this regard has been produced before the Home Ministry and the EC, Gandhi should not have been allowed to contest the ongoing Lok Sabha elections from parliamentary constituencies he has decided to -- Amethi in Utter Pradesh and Wayanad in Kerala. SC Collegium rejects govt's objection on elevation of two judges The plea, filed by advocate Barun Kumar Sinha, also sought a direction to the EC to remove Gandhi's name from "electoral roll till the decision of the question of acquisition of his British citizenship". The plea was mentioned for urgent listing before a bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi. The lawyer appearing for the petitioners told the bench, also comprising Justices Deepak Gupta and Sanjiv Khanna, that the matter be heard today. In a recent letter to Gandhi, the Home Ministry had said it has received a representation from Swamy in which it has been brought out that a company named Backops Limited was registered in the United Kingdom in 2003 with Rahul Gandhi as one of its directors. The Home Ministry had said Subramanian Swamy's letter mentioned that in the British company's annual returns filed on October 10, 2005 and October 31, 2006, Rahul Gandhi's date of birth has been given as June 19, 1970 and had declared his nationality as British. Spread the glory of rivers, PM Modi says at Mayors Conference Cow is mother, sacred to us: PM Modi in Varanasi SC dismisses Tej Bahadur Yadavs plea against rejection of his candidature in Varanasi India oi-Madhuri Adnal New Delhi, May 09: The Supreme Court on Thursday dismissed plea of former BSF constable and SP candidate Tej Bahadur Yadav against rejection of his nomination from Varanasi LS constituency. A Bench headed by CJI Gogoi dismissing the plea said, "We don't find any merit to entertain this petition." Samajwadi Party had fielded Tej Bahadur as its candidate against PM Modi from the constituency. SC asks EC to examine Tej Bahadur Yadav's plea against rejection of his candidature in Varanasi Tej Bahadur had approached the apex court on Monday challenging the rejection of his candidature against PM Modi in Varanasi. He has alleged that his candidature was rejected "to give walkover to the candidate of the ruling party", namely, Narendra Modi. Yadav was seeking to contest the Lok Sabha elections from Varanasi against Prime Minister Narendra Modi on a ticket from the Opposition alliance in Uttar Pradesh, comprising of the Samajwadi Party (SP), Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) and Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD). Advocate Prashant Bhushan is likely to represent Yadav. Varanasi Assistant RO Rajesh Kumar said, "He has not taken permission from ECI regarding contesting polls, which needs to be taken in case a government official who has been removed or suspended wants to contest polls." Also Read | Sacked BSF jawan Tej Bahadur's nomination from Varanasi rejected by EC Yadav, who served in the Border Security Force, rose to fame after a video of him complaining of the food given to security personnel went viral on social media in 2017. He was later sacked from his post. The ISIS Caliphate is dead, but ideology has become stronger today India oi-Vicky Nanjappa New Delhi, May 09: The latest video of Abu Bakr al-Bagdadi is alarming. Back in 2014, when he released his first video, he was seen as confident and a man who was ready to take on the strongest of forces. The 2019 video post the Sri Lankan attacks saw a stout Baghdadi seated to the ground. Sitting cross legged with an assault rifle, a heavier Baghdadi when compared to 2014 termed the attacks in Colombo as a revenge strike. The video was put out by Al-Furqan, the central media ministry of the Islamic State. The video is something that none of the agencies world wide are taking lightly. None have disputed the authenticity of the video and this only confirms that the man who had faked his death over and over again is alive. 'Leave my country alone', Sri Lankan President Sirisena to ISIS chief Baghdadi The Islamic State has lost considerable ground and is hardly even a force to reckon with in Syria and Iraq today. Despite the losses, supporters of the terror groups kept the idea of the ISIS alive on the cyber space. Now, with the Sri Lankan bombings, it is clear that the group is capable of staging big strikes, but with the help of local terror groups such as the National Towheed Jamath. The ISIS is looking for a similar strategy in India and has been scouting for partners in Kerala, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. Intelligence agencies explain to OneIndia that what the ISIS is doing today is what they did in 2013. It is more silent today, but is making a sustained effort to remain in the eco-system. It has realised that it is depleting in strength and hence is looking for smaller radical groups to further its cause. As long as their activities were restricted to Syria and Iraq, the rest of the world had nothing to worry about. However with the fall in the mainland, it was expected that they would spread across the globe. The ISIS is more dangerous today, when compared to 2014 as it weak in the ground and stronger in the mind of its followers, the officer explains. The officer further explains that the Caliphate may be dead, but the ideology lives on. The radical manner in which the ISIS takes up a job has become a run-away hit with many in India. India has so far been successful in curbing the ISIS menace. There have been several cases in Maharashtra, Karnataka and Telangana that have been busted. The modules which were busted had the potential of becoming dangerous, but they were nipped in the bud. The successful campaign against the ISIS does not mean that one can take it easy. Even today thousands of messages are exchanged on online platforms by ISIS members. Off late they quote the Kashmir issue a lot and this is clearly an indication that the outfit is trying to set up shop in the Valley, the officer also says. Fake it like Baghdadi: Why his latest video is alarming While the traction has not been as what the outfit would have expected, one cannot ignore the fact that on November 17, 2017 the ISIS claimed its first attack in the Valley. The outfit said that it was behind the killing of a police man in Srinagar. The police too confirmed that this was an attack carried out by the group. This coupled with the fact that the ISIS has managed to rope in radical groups from Southern India has only made the outfit dangerous. The interrogations of the radicalised youth arrested by the NIA in connection with the Kerala ISIS case only indicates how much they subscribe to the ideology of the outfit and the man himself that is Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi. Video of elephant drinking water from sprinkler goes viral. Twitter showers all its love Thrissur Pooram stares at crisis after Govt bans Kerala's most-loved elephant India oi-Madhuri Adnal Thrissur, May 09: The fate of this year's Thrissur Pooram hangs in balance, as Kerala's biggest cultural festival has hit a road block over the ban of one-eyed celebrity elephant named 'Thechikottukavu Ramachandran.' The 54-year-old tusker which has enough fan clubs and die-hard admirers in the state, was taken out of temple duty after it ran amok on February 8. It is partially blind after his mahout struck on his left eye with an iron-hooked stick decades ago. It has killed as many as 13 people so far and three elephants. Human-Elephant conflict a mammoth concern Yet, Thechikottukavu Ramachandran, the 55-year-old jumbo has a fan following that rivals film stars, especially in central Kerala where captive elephants are still a feudal status symbol of the festival venues. The decision has however triggered widespread protests, with Kerala Elephant Owners' Federation, backed by right wing outfits, up in arms against the government. Meanwhile, the Thrissur district administration is determined to not feature the elephant in Thrissur Pooram. Kerala's chief wildlife warden had submitted a report to government stating that allowing the elephant at the festival will be dangerous. About Thrissur Pooram: Thrissur Pooram is an annual Hindu temple festival held in Kerala, India. It is held at the Vadakkunnathan Temple in Thrissur every year on the Pooram day - the day when the moon rises with the Pooram star in the Malayalam Calendar month of Medam. It is the largest and most famous of all poorams. First captive elephant survey out: This is where your state stands Most pooram festivals have at least one ornately decorated elephant being paraded in the procession taken out of the temple precincts. From the day of sample fireworks till the conclusion, the city will host several lakh visitors including foreigners. Akhilesh stops short of saying alliance with BSP is over, confirms to go solo in by-polls Its all but over for UP 'gathbandhan': Is it heading for a three-way split UP by-elections: SBSP in talks with SP, BSP for alliance Congress prime opposition to BJP in UP, will win without SP, BSP alliance: Ajay Kumar Lallu Why the prospects of the Mahagathbandhan will improve in the next two phases India oi-Oneindia Staff By Anuj Cariappa Azamgarh, May 09: Rubbishing the BJP's claim that it was doing good in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections, the opposition 'mahagathbandhan' said that on the other hand the prospects of the opposition alliance was improving day by day. "Our (electoral) prospects are improving...The prospects of the opposition alliance will further improve in the remaining two phases of Lok Sabha polls," BSP chief Mayawati said at a joint rally with SP chief Akhilesh Yadav here. Will contest from Ambedkar Nagar 'if all goes well': Mayawati hints at her PM ambition She said ever since the 'mahagathbandhan' was formed to take on the saffron party, "BJP leaders have lost their sleep." Mayawati appealed to the voters to ensure a historic win for Yadav, who is the joint opposition candidate from the Azamgarh seat held by the SP in the outgoing Lok Sabha. Hitting back at the BJP, the BSP chief said, "We are not 'mahamilawati', it is Prime Minister Narendra Modi who is 'mahamilawati'." The PM has termed the mahagathbandhan' as the 'mahamilawati' (adulterated) alliance. Dubbing the Congress and the BJP as two sides of the same coin, she said, "Dono kaa chaal chalan ek hai (both have same nature and character)." Congress, Samajwadi Party betrayed Mayawati: PM Modi She said Modi will try to create more confusion in the days to come and appealed to the voters not to fall prey to his designs. "Unkey (Modi's) achchey din ladd gaye (his good days are over) and bad days are staring at his face," she said. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Thursday, May 9, 2019, 8:45 [IST] Centre renames 2 prominent institutes after Sushma Swaraj on the eve of her birth anniversary Eight months after talks were called off, Sushma likely to meet Qureshi International pti-PTI Islamabad, May 09: Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi and her Indian counterpart Sushma Swaraj are likely to interact during the upcoming meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) in Kyrgyzstan later this month, a top Pakistani official said on Thursday. "The two foreign ministers would be present in the meeting and in all likelihood would interact amongst themselves and with other leaders," Foreign Office spokesman Mohammad Faisal told the media here. But he hastened to clarify that "no formal meeting is, however, envisaged". The SCO Ministerial meeting will take place in Kyrgyzstan on May 21-22. The economic and security grouping was founded at a summit in Shanghai in 2001 by the presidents of Russia, China, Kyrgyz Republic, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan. India and Pakistan became its members in 2017. In September, India called off a meeting between Swaraj and Qureshi at the UN citing the release of postal stamps "glorifying" a Kashmiri militant by Pakistan as one of the reasons. The Indo-Pak tensions escalated in recent months after a terror attack in Pulwama by Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed terror group that killed 40 CRPF soldiers on February 14 and a subsequent aerial strike by India on a JeM training camp in Balakot on February 26. On February 27, the Pakistan Air Force retaliated by unsuccessfully targeting several military installations in Jammu & Kashmir. In the dogfight, Pakistan downed a MiG-21 Bison jet and captured an IAF pilot, who was handed over to India on March 1. Faisal also alleged that India was "causing an arms race in the region". "India has been trying to bring the region into an arms race. Let me say that an increase in the defence budget is not the sole determinant of a nation's strength," he said. Responding to a question that an Italian journalist claimed that 45 Pakistanis were injured in the Balakot attack, Faisal, "there is no truth in such statements." Responding to a question about Indian Minister for Water Resources saying that India will not allow even a single drop of water to flow into Pakistan, Faisal said the Indus Waters Treaty was signed by both the countries and India was in "violation of that Treaty in the case of Kishanganga and Ratle Hydro Electric Power Projects." "We have already raised this matter at the dispute resolution mechanism of the World Bank. However, the matter has not been resolved, as yet. Pakistan wishes that the Indus Waters Treaty should be allowed to function and the dispute resolution mechanism should take its due course. We urge the World Bank to empanel the Court of Arbitration, so that a resolution is reached in this regard, he said. Regarding the foreign secretary meeting with the Indian High Commissioner a day earlier at the Foreign Office, he said, "let me apprise you that such meetings occur regularly to discuss various evolving issues. I cannot disclose the detailed agenda as it does not fall in the media domain". Faisal also confirmed that Christian woman Aasia Bibi left Pakistan but refused to give the date when she left or the country where she went. He also said Pakistan supported a political solution to the Afghan conflict and consistently maintained the position that an Afghan-led and Afghan-owned peace process was the only way forward. PTI Thousands of terrorists might have been airlifted out of Kabul: Trump slams Biden Never in history has withdrawal from war been handled so badly: Trump Trump announces sanctions on Iran steel and mining industries International oi-Deepika S Washington, May 09: US President Donald Trump on Wednesday announced sanctions against Iran's steel and mining sectors, hours after Iran said it was suspending some limits set by a multinational nuclear deal -- on the one-year anniversary of Trump's pullout from the accord. The White House said it was targeting the country's biggest revenue source after oil and warned in a statement: "Tehran can expect further actions unless it fundamentally alters its conduct." "Today's action targets Iran's revenue from the export of industrial metals -- 10 percent of its export economy -- and puts other nations on notice that allowing Iranian steel and other metals into your ports will no longer be tolerated," Trump said in a statement. "Tehran can expect further actions unless it fundamentally alters its conduct." But in a switch in tone, Trump, who talked tough on North Korea before entering landmark talks with leader Kim Jong Un, said he was also willing to negotiate. "I look forward to someday meeting with the leaders of Iran in order to work out an agreement and, very importantly, taking steps to give Iran the future it deserves," he said. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Thursday, May 9, 2019, 1:16 [IST] Spire talks about emerging Tech Retail trends in ASEAN Spire was honored to participate at the GATES Consumer Channel Summit, Southeast Asia, 2019. The Summit was held on 20-22 March, in Bangkok. Hafidz Omar, Thailand Country Manager at Spire Research and Consulting, shared his insights on key trends in consumer tech and challenges encountered in ASEAN.Omar discussed how the IOT (Internet of Things) is impacting the retail industry in ASEAN countries. He also discussed the growth opportunities in geofencing, mobile payment and retail operations, to name a few recent innovations in retail technology.With the expansion of Geofencing technology (defined by GPS or RFID technology) , in the next five years retailers will be able to customize merchandise and promotions according to the customer profile.Online payment is still a challenge for e-commerce retailers in Asia-Pacific as most customers prefer cash on delivery and 73 per cent of the Southeast Asias population do not own a bank account. However mobile payment may be a solution that bypasses the conventional banking system. 90 per cent of the people using smartphones are expected to have made a mobile payment by 2020.With the implementation of the Comprehensive Tax Reform Program (CTRP), Corporate Income Tax would be gradually reduced from 30 per cent to 25 per cent. In 2020, the digital population is expected to reach over 100 million and the electronics industry is expected to be worth USD250 million.Online retailers are using dynamic pricing to price goods based on different variables, such as time of day and demand. This is yet to be implemented by offline retailers.Asias online retail growth is three times that of the rest of the world. This is evident in the Chinese market, where online retail penetration is 20 per cent and growth was 33 per cent in 2017.Spire Research and Consulting was established in 2000 to address a gap in the research and consulting industry in global emerging markets. Unlike most agencies that focus on traditional consumer research, our founders saw a profound need for holistic research projects.These projects integrate traditional customer research with knowledge of the broader business eco-system; for instance, competitors, channels, legal and regulatory factors. 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We started SEO services in London and have extended our services to SEO, PPC and Social Media Marketing, across UK.Company: PaceLabBusiness Address: 4th Floor, Rex House, 4-12 Regent Street, LondonPincode: SW1Y 4PEEmail: seo@pacelab.coWebsite: Articulated Boom AWP Market: Competitive Dynamics & Global Outlook 2024 Top Key players like Top Key players like Terex,JLG,Aichi,Inc. https://www.marketresearchreportstore.com/reports/616183/global-united-states-european-union-china https://www.marketresearchreportstore.com/reports/616183/global-united-states-european-union-china https://www.marketresearchreportstore.com Market Research Report Store offers a latest published report on Articulated Boom AWP Market Analysis and Forecast 2019-2025 delivering key insights and providing a competitive advantage to clients through a detailed report. The report contains 91 pages which highly exhibit on current market analysis scenario, upcoming as well as future opportunities, revenue growth, pricing and profitability.Click to view the full report TOC, figure and tables:In 2019, the market size of Articulated Boom AWP is million US$ and it will reach million US$ in 2025, growing at a CAGR of from 2019; while in China, the market size is valued at xx million US$ and will increase to xx million US$ in 2025, with a CAGR of xx% during forecast period.In this report, 2018 has been considered as the base year and 2019 to 2025 as the forecast period to estimate the market size for Articulated Boom AWP.This report studies the global market size of Articulated Boom AWP, especially focuses on the key regions like United States, European Union, China, and other regions (Japan, Korea, India and Southeast Asia).This study presents the Articulated Boom AWP production, revenue, market share and growth rate for each key company, and also covers the breakdown data (production, consumption, revenue and market share) by regions, type and applications. history breakdown data from 2014 to 2019, and forecast to 2025.Market Segment by Manufacturers, this report coversTerexJLGAichiHaulotteSkyjackTadanoTIME ManufacturingAltecManitouRuthmannDingliBronto SkyliftMarket Segment by Type, coversBelow 10m10m-20mAbove 20mMarket Segment by Applications, can be divided intoMunicipalGarden engineeringTelecommunicationConstructionOthersFor More Information On This Report, Please Visit @Related Information:North America Articulated Boom AWP Market Growth 2019-2024United States Articulated Boom AWP Market Growth 2019-2024Asia-Pacific Articulated Boom AWP Market Growth 2019-2024Europe Articulated Boom AWP Market Growth 2019-2024EMEA Articulated Boom AWP Market Growth 2019-2024Global Articulated Boom AWP Market Growth 2019-2024China Articulated Boom AWP Market Growth 2019-2024Customization Service of the Report :Market Research Report Store provides 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 Us:Market Research Report Store (MRRS) is a professional organization related to market research reports in all directions .To provide customers with a variety of market research reports, MRRS cooperates with a large of famous market report publishers all over the world. Owing to our good service and the professional market reports in the wide range, MRRS enjoys a good reputation in the market. In pace with the development of MRRS, more and more customers and market report publishers choose to cooperate with us. As a specialized platform, MRRS upholds the supremacy of customers and aims to provide customers with better service and richer select.Contact USMarket Research Report StoreE-mail: info@marketresearchreportstore.comTel: +86-15521064060 00852-58197708(HK)Add: 17890 Castleton Street Suite 218 City of Industry CA 91748 United StatesWebsite: Pedicle Screws Market Outlook to 2027: Stryker, Medtronic, RTI Surgical, K2M, Orthofix International, DePuy Synthes, Zimmer Biomet, Globus Medical, B. Braun Melsungen, and Alphatec Spine Pedicle Screws Market to 2027 http://bit.ly/2WzrrTk http://bit.ly/2WxZzPq https://www.theinsightpartners.com/ The report analyzes factors affecting pedicle screws market from both demand and supply side and further evaluates market dynamics effecting the market during the forecast period i.e., drivers, restraints, opportunities, and future trend. The report also provides exhaustive PEST analysis for all five regions namely; North America, Europe, APAC, MEA and South & Central America after evaluating political, economic, social and technological factors effecting the pedicle screws market in these regions.The global pedicle screws market is expected to witness high growth during the forecast period. The report provides key statistics on the market status of the leading pedicle screws market players and offers key trends and opportunities in the market.Get sample PDF copy of this study:The pedicle screws market is anticipated to grow in the forecast period owing to driving factors such as increasing number of spinal injuries, growing preference for minimally invasive surgeries and technological advancements in spinal fusion devices. The market is likely to showcase opportunities for the untapped markets and growing awareness regarding advanced surgical procedures.Leading Players:1. DePuy Synthes2. Zimmer Biomet3. Globus Medical Inc.4. B. Braun Melsungen AG5. Stryker6. Medtronic7. RTI Surgical, Inc.8. K2M, Inc.9. Orthofix International N.V.10. Alphatec Spine, Inc. (A Subsidiary of Alphatec Holdings, Inc.)The global pedicle screws market is segmented on the basis of product type and application. Based on product type, the market is segmented as polyaxial pedicle screw systems, monoaxial pedicle screw systems, and other pedicle screw systems. On the basis of the application the market is segmented as fracture, spinal tumor, scoliosis, failed fusion, and spondylitis.Pedicle screws are accessories used majorly during the spinal fusion procedures that helps to provide extra support and strength to the fusion during its healing period. These screws are placed above and below the fused vertebrae. The screws themselves do not fixate the spinal segment, but act as firm anchor points that can then be connected with a rod. The removal of these screws is not necessary until the patients experience discomfort from these screws.Inquire for discount:The report provides a detailed overview of the industry including both qualitative and quantitative information. It provides overview and forecast of the global pedicle screws market based on various segments. It also provides market size and forecast estimates from year 2017 to 2027 with respect to five major regions, namely; North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific (APAC), Middle East and Africa (MEA) and South & Central America. The pedicle screws market by each region is later sub-segmented by respective countries and segments. The report covers analysis and forecast of 18 countries globally along with current trend and opportunities prevailing in the region.About Us:The Insight Partners is a one stop industry research provider of actionable intelligence. We help our clients in getting solutions to their research requirements through our syndicated and consulting research services. We are a specialist in Technology, Healthcare, Manufacturing, Automotive and Defense.Contact Us:Call: +1-646-491-9876Email: sales@theinsightpartners.comWeb: Fabricated Metal Market A Comprehensive Study by Key Players: Ball Corp, Mueller Ind, Flowserve Corp, Valmont | Forecast to 2026 https://www.marketresearchreports.biz/sample/sample/6777 https://www.marketresearchreports.biz/sample/toc/6777 http://www.marketresearchreports.biz/ The Research Report Fabricated Metal Market - Global Industry Analysis, Size, Share, Growth, Trends, and Forecast 2018 - 2026 provides information on pricing, market analysis, shares, forecast, and company profiles for key industry participants. - MarketResearchReports.bizFabricated metal, a component used in the manufacture of durable goods, transforms metal into intermediate or end products other than computers, electronics, and metal furniture. The fabricated metal products industry includes facilities that mostly perform two primary functions: create metal shapes and perform metal finishing operations, which include surface preparation. Hand tools and hardware, screw machine products and bolts, metal cans, cutlery, and pipes and pipe fittings are key fabricated metal products.Global Fabricated Metal Market: Market DemandRise in demand for fabricated metal products in the automotive industry, primarily due to the high demand for passenger and commercial vehicles, is driving the global fabricated metal market. Additionally, constant growth in the construction industry is fueling the global fabricated metal market. Governments across the globe are investing significantly in upgrade and development of infrastructure. For example, the U.S. Government plans to invest US$ 1.7 Trillion over the next 10 years to rebuild infrastructure in the country. Construction projects are technology and material intensive; therefore, these require continuous supply of a wide variety of fabricated metal components.Global Fabricated Metal Market: Key SegmentsThe global fabricated metal market can be segmented based on product, end-user, and region. In terms of product, the global fabricated metal market can be segregated into cutlery and hand tools, architectural & structural metals products, boilers, tanks & shipping containers, coating and heat treating, screws, nuts, and bolts, and others. Architectural & structural metals is a major segment of the global fabricated metal market. The segment is anticipated to expand at a significant pace during the forecast period. Growth of the construction industry, especially the infrastructure sector, is likely to drive the demand for structural metal products. Industrial and manufacturing activities are increasing rapidly in Asia Pacific, especially in China and Japan, due to favorable government policies and rise in FDI inflow. Hence, coating and heat treating, and boilers, tanks & shipping containers segments are estimated to expand at a considerable pace during the forecast period.Get Sample Copy of this report @Based on end-user, the global fabricated metal market can be divided into construction, automotive, machinery, equipment, and others. Automotive is a major end-user of the market. According to the International Organization of Motor Vehicle Manufacturers (OICA), the sale of new vehicles increased from 87.5 million in 2013 to 94.9 million in 2016. Increase in sale of vehicles is expected to boost the demand for global fabricated metal market.Global Fabricated Metal Market: Regional OutlookIn terms of region, the global fabricated metal market can be split into North America, Asia Pacific, Europe, Latin America, and Middle East & Africa. Asia Pacific is expected to dominate the global fabricated metal market. The global fabricated metal market in the region is anticipated to expand at a substantial pace during the forecast period due to low cost of labor and availability of raw materials. Therefore, several global companies have established their manufacturing facilities in Asia Pacific. However, such manufacturing companies largely depend on the fabricated metal products which further boost the growth of the global fabricated metal market. China, India, Japan, and Indonesia contribute significantly to the global fabricated metal market in the region.Europe is another key region of the global fabricated metal market. Presence of automotive manufacturers such as BMW, Volkswagen, Mercedes-Benz, and Audi in Europe is boosting the global fabricated metal market in the region. Germany, the U.K., Spain, and France are key contributors to the global fabricated metal market in Europe. Moreover, rise in investment by the U.S. Government in the aerospace & defense sector is creating opportunities in the global fabricated metal market. In 2017, the aerospace industry contributed US$ 143 Bn in export sales to the U.S. economy.Global Fabricated Metal Market: Key PlayersKey companies operating in the global fabricated metal market include Ball Corporation, Rivers Metal Products Inc., Mueller Industries, Inc., Illinois Tool Works Inc., Flowserve Corporation, The Timken Company, Valmont Industries Inc., Schaeffler Technologies AG & Co. KG, Smith International Inc., and Toyo Seikan Kaisha, Ltd.MRR.BIZ has been compiled in-depth market research data in the report after exhaustive primary and secondary research. Our team of able, experienced in-house analysts has collated the information through personal interviews and study of industry databases, journals, and reputable paid sources.Request For TOC Report @The report provides the following information:-Tailwinds and headwinds molding the markets trajectory-Market segments based on products, technology, and applications-Prospects of each segment-Overall current and possible future size of the market-Growth pace of the market-Competitive landscape and key players strategiesThe main aim of the report is to:-Enable key stakeholders in the market bet right on it-Understand the opportunities and pitfalls awaiting them-Assess the overall growth scope in the near term-Strategize effectively with respect to production and distributionMRR.BIZ is a leading provider of strategic market research. Our vast repository consists research reports, data books, company profiles, and regional market data sheets. We regularly update the data and analysis of a wide-ranging products and services around the world. As readers, you will have access to the latest information on almost 300 industries and their sub-segments. Both large Fortune 500 companies and SMEs have found those useful. This is because we customize our offerings keeping in mind the specific requirements of our clients.MarketResearchReports.biz is the most comprehensive collection of market research reports. MarketResearchReports.Biz services are specially designed to save time and money for our clients. We are a one stop solution for all your research needs, our main offerings are syndicated research reports, custom research, subscription access and consulting services. We serve all sizes and types of companies spanning across various industries.ContactMr. NachiketState Tower90 Sate Street, Suite 700Albany, NY 12207Tel: +1-518-621-2074Website:E: sales@marketresearchreports.biz Beverage Refrigeration Market Growth 2019 By Key Players are: Electrolux, Dover Corporation, GE, Whirlpool Corporation, Haier Beverage Refrigeration Market https://www.gminsights.com/request-sample/detail/2111 https://www.gminsights.com/inquiry-before-buying/2111 https://www.gminsights.com/industry-analysis/beverage-refrigeration-market https://www.gminsights.com/ North America Beverage Refrigeration Market is anticipated to surpass USD 1 billion by 2024. This can be credited to escalating consumption of refreshment drinks and technological improvements in refrigeration systems. In addition, government encouraging utilization of energy-efficient and eco-friendly technologies in refrigerators.Beverage Refrigeration Market to reach USD 4.5 billion by 2024. Escalating demand for refrigerators to store and serve drinks for social gathering and private events, is a key factor driving beverage refrigeration market growth. Ongoing technological advances to reduce the overall cooling time and consumer demand for distinctive features such as bottom freezer drawer and powerful filtered water will boost beverage refrigeration market.Request for a sample copy of this report @Manufacturers are anticipated to invest in new product development to comply with new energy standards implemented by the regulatory bodies. Further, increasing penetration of refrigerators that employ specific features such as modifiable shelves to accommodate bottles and cans will boost product sales.Increasing consumer preference for packaged drinks which are convenient to consume at home will support the product demand. According to recent statistics, the global consumption of packaged drinks was estimated more than 1.05 trillion liters in 2016 and Chinese consumption amounted to about 178.6 billion liters.Beverage Refrigeration Market, By Producto Under counter beverage refrigerator Gliding door Swing Dooro Countertop beverage refrigerator Gliding door Swing dooro Storage beverage refrigeratoro Milk coolersMake an Inquiry for purchasing this Report @Under counter beverage refrigerator was valued at over USD 1 billion in 2016. Product offering such as stainless-steel body or custom panel-ready fronts are stimulating the demand. In addition, better shelving and temperature control will support segment penetration over the forecast period.Rising demand to preserve milk in dairy shops will propel coolers demand over the projected timeframe. Diary companies are upgrading their existing capacities, and setting up cold storages along with the processing plant. This will generate the overall revenue over the forecast period.Asia Pacific market holds over 20% of overall industry share in 2016. According to industry estimates, the region is anticipated to account for more than two-thirds of the global beverages consumption by 2020. The region accounts for 60% of the world population and increasing consumption will provide lucrative opportunities for manufacturers.Browse Report Summery @Global Beverage Refrigeration Market is fragmented in nature. Key industry players are Electrolux, Daikin Industries, Avanti, Dover Corporation, KingsBottle, Whirlpool Corporation, Edgestar, Haier, Ford and General Electrics. Other Industry participants are Koolatron, Coca-Cola, Danfoss, Gamko, Liebherr, Marvel, Kegco, Danby, Johnson Controls, U-line, HABCO, Allavino, Kenmore, Marvel, United Technologies Corporation and Illinois Tool Works.About Global Market Insights:Global Market Insights, Inc., headquartered in Delaware, U.S., is a global market research and consulting service provider; offering syndicated and custom research reports along with growth consulting services. Our business intelligence and industry research reports offer clients with penetrative insights and actionable market data specially designed and presented to aid strategic decision making. These exhaustive reports are designed via a proprietary research methodology and are available for key industries such as chemicals, advanced materials, technology, renewable energy and biotechnology.Contact Us:Arun HegdeCorporate Sales, USAGlobal Market Insights, Inc.Phone:1-302-846-7766Toll Free: 1-888-689-0688Email: sales@gminsights.comWeb: Hemp Milk Market to peak demand by 2024 at a CAGR of 15.2% - Lovetree products, Missha Japan, Gourmeo GmbH Hemp Milk Market https://www.advancemarketanalytics.com/sample-report/21258-global-hemp-milk-market https://www.advancemarketanalytics.com/enquiry-before-buy/21258-global-hemp-milk-market https://www.advancemarketanalytics.com/buy-now?format=1&report=21258 https://www.advancemarketanalytics.com/reports/21258-global-hemp-milk-market Hemp milk is defined as the plant-based substitute to cow milk which is made up from whole hemp seeds. Numerous benefits of using drinking hemp milk such as the good source of nutrients, healthy fats, vitamin percentage, high-quality plant protein, healthy fats, minerals, low calories, Omega-3, and Omega-6 fatty acids and others benefits.Advance Market Analytics released a new market study on Global Hemp Milk Market with 100+ market data Tables, Pie Chat, Graphs & Figures spread through Pages and easy to understand detailed analysis. At present, the market is developing its presence. The Research report presents a complete assessment of the Market and contains a future trend, current growth factors, attentive opinions, facts, and industry validated market data. The research study provides estimates for Global Hemp Milk Forecast till 2025*. Some are the key players taken under coverage for this study are Healthy Brands Collective (United States), Drink Daily Greens LLC (United States), Pacific Foods of Oregon Inc. (United States), Wild Harvest Organics (United States), Braham & Murray Ltd (United Kingdom), Good Hemp Living, LLC (United States), Braham & Murray Ltd. (United Kingdom), Lovetree products (United States), Gourmeo GmbH (Germany) and Missha Japan Inc (Japan).The market for hemp milk is expected to register a CAGR of over 15.2% during the forecast period.Click to get Global Hemp Milk Market Research Sample PDF Copy Here @:Market Drivers Increasing Preference among the Consumers towards Healthier FoodstuffsMarket Trend Technology Advancement regarding Hemp Milk ProductsRestraints Safety and Regulatory Aspects of Hemp Milk UseOpportunities Emerging Applications of Hemp milk ProductsChallenges Lack of Awareness regarding Hemp MilkImportant Features that are under offering & key highlights of the report:1) What all companies are currently profiled in the report?Following are list of players that are currently profiled in the the report Healthy Brands Collective (United States), Drink Daily Greens LLC (United States), Pacific Foods of Oregon Inc. (United States), Wild Harvest Organics (United States), Braham & Murray Ltd (United Kingdom), Good Hemp Living, LLC (United States), Braham & Murray Ltd. (United Kingdom), Lovetree products (United States), Gourmeo GmbH (Germany) and Missha Japan Inc (Japan)** List of companies mentioned may vary in the final report subject to Name Change / Merger etc.2) Can we add or profiled new company as per our need?Yes, we can add or profile new company as per client need in the report. Final confirmation to be provided by research team depending upon the difficulty of survey.** Data availability will be confirmed by research in case of privately held company. Upto 3 players can be added at no added cost.3) What all regional segmentation covered? Can specific country of interest be added?Currently, research report gives special attention and focus on following regions:North America, United States, Canada, Mexico, Asia-Pacific, China, India, Japan, South Korea, Australia, Indonesia, Singapore, Rest of Asia-Pacific, Europe, Germany, France, UK, Italy, Spain, Russia, Rest of Europe, Central & South America, Brazil, Argentina, Rest of South America, Middle East & Africa, Saudi Arabia, Turkey & Rest of Middle East & Africa** One country of specific interest can be included at no added cost. For inclusion of more regional segment quote may vary.4) Can inclusion of additional Segmentation / Market breakdown is possible?Yes, inclusion of additional segmentation / Market breakdown is possible subject to data availability and difficulty of survey. However a detailed requirement needs to be shared with our research before giving final confirmation to client.** Depending upon the requirement the deliverable time and quote will vary.Enquire for customization in Report @To comprehend Global Hemp Milk market dynamics in the world mainly, the worldwide Hemp Milk market is analyzed across major global regions. AMA also provides customized specific regional and country-level reports for the following areas. North America: United States, Canada, and Mexico. South & Central America: Argentina, Chile, and Brazil. Middle East & Africa: Saudi Arabia, UAE, Turkey, Egypt and South Africa. Europe: UK, France, Italy, Germany, Spain, and Russia. Asia-Pacific: India, China, Japan, South Korea, Indonesia, Singapore, and Australia.2-Page profiles for 10+ leading manufacturers and 10+ leading retailers is included, along with 3 years financial history to illustrate the recent performance of the market. Revised and updated discussion for 2018 of key macro and micro market influences impacting the sector are provided with a thought-provoking qualitative comment on future opportunities and threats. This report combines the best of both statistically relevant quantitative data from the industry, coupled with relevant and insightful qualitative comment and analysis.List of players also available in Coverage: Living Harvest Foods, Inc. (United States) and Better Living Products (United States)Global Hemp Milk Product Types In-Depth: Flavored, Plain, Flavored Unsweetened, Unsweetened Flavored, OthersGlobal Hemp Milk Major Applications/End users: Supermarket, Online Store, OtherBuy Full Copy Global Hemp Milk Report 2018 @Strategic Points Covered in Table of Content of Global Hemp Milk Market:Chapter 1: Introduction, market driving force product Objective of Study and Research Scope the Hemp Milk marketChapter 2: Exclusive Summary the basic information of the Hemp Milk Market.Chapter 3: Displaying the Market Dynamics- Drivers, Trends and Challenges of the Hemp MilkChapter 4: Presenting the Hemp Milk Market Factor Analysis Porters Five Forces, Supply/Value Chain, PESTEL analysis, Market Entropy, Patent/Trademark Analysis.Chapter 5: Displaying the by Type, End User and Region 2013-2018Chapter 6: Evaluating the leading manufacturers of the Hemp Milk market which consists of its Competitive Landscape, Peer Group Analysis, BCG Matrix & Company ProfileChapter 7: To evaluate the market by segments, by countries and by manufacturers with revenue share and sales by key countries in these various regions.Chapter 8 & 9: Displaying the Appendix, Methodology and Data SourceFinally, Hemp Milk Market is a valuable source of guidance for individuals and companies.Browse for Full Report at @:Actual Numbers & In-Depth Analysis, Business opportunities, Market Size Estimation Available in Full Report.Thanks for reading this article, you can also get individual chapter wise section or region wise report version like North America, Europe or Asia.About Author:Advance Market Analytics is Global leaders of Market Research Industry provides the quantified B2B research to Fortune 500 companies on high growth emerging opportunities which will impact more than 80% of worldwide companies' revenues.Our Analyst is tracking high growth study with detailed statistical and in-depth analysis of market trends & dynamics that provide a complete overview of the industry. We follow an extensive research methodology coupled with critical insights related industry factors and market forces to generate the best value for our clients. We Provides reliable primary and secondary data sources, our analysts and consultants derive informative and usable data suited for our clients business needs. The research study enable clients to meet varied market objectives a from global footprint expansion to supply chain optimization and from competitor profiling to M&As.Contact US :Craig Francis (PR & Marketing Manager)AMA Research & Media LLPUnit No. 429, Parsonage Road Edison, NJNew Jersey USA 08837Phone: +1 (206) 317 1218 By 2024, Asia Pacific Behavior Analytics Market will witness a CAGR of 45%+ https://www.gminsights.com/request-sample/detail/2133 https://www.gminsights.com/inquiry-before-buying/2133 https://www.gminsights.com/industry-analysis/behavior-analytics-market https://www.gminsights.com http://solutionrocket.com Asia Pacific behavior analytics market is estimated to register considerable growth during the forecast timeline owing to the increasing internet penetration and growing smartphone adoption as well as demand for mobile applications in the region. Furthermore, increasing digitalization and growing investment in information security in the economies such as China, India and Australia are also estimated to drive the revenue growth.Request for a sample of this research report @The healthcare sector has emerged as one of the major end-users of the behavior analytics market and is anticipated to register substantial growth during the forecast timeline. The growing demand for these solutions among healthcare organizations is attributed to the growing threat of insider attacks and data breaches among healthcare institutes, which poses a financial risk.Besides, healthcare institutes are more exposed to the risk of insider attacks owing to the general lack of cybersecurity infrastructure. User identity information can be stolen from hospital records for insurance fraud, the need to alleviate these risks has led to considerable demand for behavior analytics industry solutions.Growing adoption of cloud-based behavior analytics market solutions is driving the global revenue, a trend that is expected to resonate across the forecast timeline. Increasing adoption of cloud platform among organizations and improving security measures for this deployment model is one of the key factors that is encouraging the organizations to shift toward cloud platform. Furthermore, advanced cloud-based behavior analytics solutions offer better handling of sensitive data, thereby augmenting the demand of these products among organizations.Behavior Analytics Market is set to exceed USD 3.5 billion by 2024; according to a new research report by Global Market Insights, Inc. Technology advancement has bolstered the demand for behavior analytics industry solutions among organizations to detect threats even before they occur and to mitigate their impact.Integration of advanced analytics and machine learning algorithms for analyzing user behavior allows automatic analysis enables organizations to link user and entity activity to support security analyst in threat detection and remediation. Besides these, advanced behavior analytics market systems also offer certain benefits over conventional security enterprise systems, such as end to end protection, automated response and access control.Make an inquiry for purchasing this report @Company profiled in this report based on Business overview, Financial data, Product landscape, Strategic outlook & SWOT analysis: Balabit Corp. Bay Dynamics Bottomline Technologies Cynet Security Ltd. Dtex Systems E8 Security Inc. Exabeam Inc. Fortscale Security Ltd. Gurucul Solutions LLC HP Enterprise IBM Corporation MaAfee LLC Interset Inc. Rapid7 Securonix Inc. Splunk Inc. Varonis System Inc. Vectra Network Inc.Browse Full Report:Some of the major vendors of the behavior analytics market solutions are Splunk Inc., IBM Corporation, Rapid7, LogRhythm, etc. Strategic partnerships are one of the most popular strategy used by vendors to gain market share. For example, in September 2017, Bay Dynamics announced that they are forming a strategic alliance with VMware Mobile Security Alliances with the sole purpose of enhancing its product capabilities, which assist enterprises to effectively mitigate mobile threats.About Global Market Insights:Global Market Insights, Inc., headquartered in Delaware, U.S., is a global market research and consulting service provider; offering syndicated and custom research reports along with growth consulting services. Our business intelligence and industry research reports offer clients with penetrative insights and actionable market data specially designed and presented to aid strategic decision making. These exhaustive reports are designed via a proprietary research methodology and are available for key industries such as chemicals, advanced materials, technology, renewable energy and biotechnology.Contact Us:Arun HegdeCorporate Sales, USAGlobal Market Insights, Inc.Phone: 1-302-846-7766Toll Free: 1-888-689-0688Email: sales@gminsights.comWeb:Blog: Future Outlook of Remote Weapon Station Market to reach 17.9 Billion US$ globally by 2025 | Top Key Players - RightScale, Doublehorn, IBM, Capgemini SA, Dell, Jam Cracker, Accenture Remote Weapon Station Market https://www.businessindustryreports.com/sample-request/106790 https://www.businessindustryreports.com/buy-now/106790/single https://www.businessindustryreports.com/check-discount/106790 The exclusive research report on the Global Remote Weapon Station Market 2019 examines the market in detail along with focusing on significant market dynamics for the key players operating in the market. Global Remote Weapon Station Industry research report offers granulated yet in-depth analysis of revenue share, market segments, revenue estimates and various regions across the globe.Global Remote Weapon Station Market Overview:The Global Remote Weapon Station Market is Valued at 7.1 Billion US$ in 2016 and will reach 17.9 Billion US$ by the end of 2025, also market is anticipated to grow with a healthy growth rate of more than 11.0% over the forecast period 2017 - 2025.According to the market report analysis, rising nations, particularly in the Asia Pacific, are progressively concentrating on the improvement of their maritime stages. Also, ceaseless upgradation of existing battle stages. Moreover, the numbers of fighting stages are being produced around the world, powering the interest for remote weapon station over the world.Available Exclusive Sample Copy of this Report @The Global Remote Weapon Station Market is segmented on the basis of Application, Component, Platform, Technology, Mobility and Region. Based on the Application, the Global Remote Weapon Station Market is sub-segmented into Military, Homeland Security and others. Based on the Component, the Global Remote Weapon Station Market is divided into Human Machine Interface, Sensors and Weapons & Armaments. On the basis of Platform, the Global Remote Weapon Station Market is classified into Land, Naval, and Airborne. Based on the Technology, the Global Remote Weapon Station Market is sub-segmented into Close-in Weapon Systems, Remote Controlled Gun Systems and others. On the basis of Mobility, the Global Remote Weapon Station Market is sub-segmented into Stationary and Moving.As per the regional analysis, the rapid growth of the Remote Weapon Station Market in the APAC can be attributed to the increasing defense budgets to innovate and develop robust Remote Weapon Station by emerging countries, such as China and India. China is estimated to account for the largest share of the Asia Pacific remote weapon station market in 2018. This rapid growth can be attributed to the increasing research & development activities undertaken in the region for the development of advanced technology-based designs of remote weapon stations.Business Study: Hybrid Cloud Management Software Vendors RightScale specializes in cloud management delivered via software as a service (SaaS) solutions. Its two key products are RightScale Optima, a cloud cost management tool, and the RightScale Cloud Management Platform, which is detailed below. The firm also offers cloud computing consulting services. Founded in 2006, the company has raised $62.1 million in funding, according to CrunchBase.Purchase this report online with 80 Pages, List of Tables & Figures and in-depth Table of Contents on Global Remote Weapon Station Market Report 2019 @Top Leading Key Manufacturers are: RightScale, Inc, Doublehorn LLC., IBM Co., Capgemini S.A., Dell Inc., Jam Cracker Inc., Accenture Plc., Liaison Technologies Inc., Hewlett Packard Enterprise and others. New product launches and continuous technological innovations are the key strategies adopted by the major players.Region segment: This report is segmented into several key regions, with sales, revenue, market share (%) and growth Rate (%) of Remote Weapon Station in these regions, from 2013 to 2025 (forecast), covering: North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa and South AmericaWith the presence of a large pool of participants, the Global Remote Weapon Station Market is displaying a highly competitive business landscape, finds a new research report by Business Industry Reports (BIR). RightScale, Inc, Doublehorn LLC., IBM Co., Capgemini S.A., Dell Inc., Jam Cracker Inc., Accenture Plc., Liaison Technologies Inc., etc. are some of the key vendors of Remote Weapon Station across the world. These players across Remote Weapon Station Market are focusing aggressively on innovation, as well as on including advanced technologies in their existing products.Grab Your Report at an Impressive Discount @About usBusinessindustryReports.com is digital database of comprehensive market reports for global industries. 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.Media ContactBusiness Industry ReportsPune Indiasales@businessindustryreports.com+19376349940 What's Driving The Gyroscope Sensor Market Growth? Key Players Are: Bosch Sensortec GmbH (Germany), Freescale Semiconductor (U.S.), STMicroelectronics (Switzerland), MEMSIC (U.S.) Gyroscope Sensor https://www.bigmarketresearch.com/request-sample/2970343?utm_source=SJ-op https://www.bigmarketresearch.com/request-for-discount/2970343?utm_source=SJ-op The Gyroscope Sensor Market report contains wide-extending factual assessment for Gyroscope Sensor, which enables the customer to separate the future complicity and estimate right execution. The advancement rate is evaluated dependent on insightful examination that gives the credible information on the worldwide Gyroscope Sensor market.Get The Sample Copy Of This report @Top Key Players : Bosch Sensortec GmbH (Germany), Freescale Semiconductor (U.S.), STMicroelectronics (Switzerland), MEMSIC (U.S.), Microchip Technology (U.S.), InvenSense (U.S.), Kionix (U.S.), Honeywell International (U.S.), Murata Manufacturing (Japan), Analog Devices (U.S.)A collective analysis of Gyroscope Sensor market offering an exhaustive study based on current trends influencing this vertical across various geographies has been provided in the report.The report provides extensive data concerning the market share that each one of these companies presently gather throughout this business, followed by the market share that they are anticipated to acquire by the end of the predicted timeframe. The study has concentrated on the status of Gyroscope Sensor market besides giving an outlook in terms of value and volume.It has categorized the market size, Application, type, and region so that users could help from this kind of report.This included Europe, the United States, South Korea, China, Japan, and Taiwan apart from other regions.Market Segment by Type, covers Infrared Ultrasonic Microwave OthersMarket Segment by Applications, can be divided into Consumer Electronics Healthcare Automotive Energy and Power AerospaceMarket 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)Get Purchase Discount @The content of the study subjects, includes a total of 15 chapters:Chapter 1, to describe Gyroscope Sensor product scope, market overview, market opportunities, market driving force and market risks.Chapter 2, to profile the top manufacturers of Gyroscope Sensor, with price, sales, revenue and global market share of Gyroscope Sensor in 2017 and 2018.Chapter 3, the Gyroscope Sensor competitive situation, sales, revenue and global market share of top manufacturers are analyzed emphatically by landscape contrast.Chapter 4, the Gyroscope Sensor breakdown data are shown at the regional level, to show the sales, revenue and growth by regions, from 2014 to 2019.Chapter 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9, to break the sales data at the country level, with sales, revenue and market share for key countries in the world, from 2014 to 2019.Chapter 10 and 11, to segment the sales by type and application, with sales market share and growth rate by type, application, from 2014 to 2019.Chapter 12, Gyroscope Sensor market forecast, by regions, type and application, with sales and revenue, from 2019 to 2024.Chapter 13, 14 and 15, to describe Gyroscope Sensor sales channel, distributors, customers, research findings and conclusion, appendix and data source.About Us:Big Market Research has a range of research reports from various publishers across the world.Our database of reports of various market categories and sub-categories would help to find the exact report you may be looking for.We are instrumental in providing quantitative and qualitative insights on your area of interest by bringing reports from various publishers at one place to save your time and money. A lot of organizations across the world are gaining profits and great benefits from information gained through reports sourced by us.Contact Us:Mr. Abhishek Paliwal5933 NE Win Sivers Drive, #205, Portland,OR 97220 United StatesDirect:+1-971-202-1575Toll Free:+1-800-910-6452email help@bigmarketresearch.com Cancer Biomarkers Market Emerging Growth Factors and In-depth Study with Top Players BioMerieux S.A., Bard1 Life Sciences, Bio-Rad Laboratories, Abbott, Becton, Dickinson and Company Cancer Biomarkers https://www.coherentmarketinsights.com/insight/request-sample/175 https://www.coherentmarketinsights.com/insight/request-pdf/175 Growing prevalence and incidence of various types of cancer coupled with increasing need for early diagnosis of cancers are the major factors driving growth of global cancer biomarkers market over the forecast period. Continuous research and development and technology advancements in cancer biomarkers had led to introduction of better and affordable biomarkers in the field of clinical diagnosis. For instance, according to the data published in Cell Metabolism Journal, in March 2018, a team of Australian researchers found a unique metabolic marker, which can detect adenocarcinomas, a form of lung cancer. These metabolic biomarkers respond to immunotherapies and offers simple, non-invasive blood test for early detection of lung cancer.Cancer biomarkers are biological molecule produced either by tumor cells or by human tissues in response to cancer, which then measured and evaluated as an indicator of cancerous processes within the body. Cancer biomarkers are extensively used in detection and management of patients with cancer. In patients, who undergone curative surgery for cancer, biomarkers are used in follow-up surveillance and for early detection of possible recurrent disease. Moreover, continuous advancements in cancer diagnosis includes use of molecular biomarkers as part of routine diagnostic tests. Molecular alterations used for cancer diagnosis involves application of DNA, RNA, microRNAs, and proteins. Governments of various countries are focusing on investing in prevention and early intervention of cancer, to reduce emotional and physical impact of cancer on patients and their families. Moreover, national healthcare departments are involved in continuous development in cancer research and treatment. Increasing incidence of cancer is expected to lead to innovation and development in the area of cancer diagnosis with biomarker. For instance, according to the 2015 data findings, U.K. Department of Health & Social Care invests US$ 7.5 billion on cancer related treatment and services, annually.The global cancer biomarkers market was valued at US$ 11.6 billion in 2017 and is expected to witness a CAGR of 14.2% over the forecast period (20172025).In February 2018, researchers at Georgetown-Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, identified biomarkers, which can use liquid biopsies to predict response to cancer treatment and help in identifying increasingly specific subsets of GI cancers to make treatment decisions. According to the data published in the European Journal of Breast Health, in October 2017, body fluid tests can be used for early detection of new or recurrent breast cancer. This new approach includes tissue testing and body fluid analysis of individuals diagnosed with breast cancer, for more effective cancer treatment.Request A Sample Copy:Moreover, manufacturers are focusing on developing new cancer biomarkers, which would aid in early diagnosis of cancers and are used for oncology research studies. For instance, in November 2016, Oxford Cancer Biomarkers Ltd. introduced ColoTox test for predicting risk of toxicity with cancer chemotherapy tests. In December 2015, Olink Bioscience introduced Proseek Multiplex Oncology II96x96: 92 human protein biomarker panel for oncology research.Various government and private organizations are focusing on increasing investment in R&D for cancer biomarkers. This is owing to increasing incidence and prevalence of cancer, globally. For instance, in June 2018, Cancer Research UK, proposed funding of US$ 140,922 per year, through biomarker project for biomarker assay development, validation, and qualification for use in cancer clinical diagnosis. Furthermore, in March 2016, the National Cancer Institute (NCI) invested US$ 5.5 million in 2016, for setting up of laboratories to conduct research on biomarkers and biomarker assays for cancers of the breast, prostate, lung, and genitourinary organs, and also to those cancers, which have high incidence rate. In April 2016, University of Auckland received a US$ 10 million grant to conduct research in cancer biomarkers, from Auckland entrepreneur, Mr Liangren Li and his family. The grant was allocated for initiating the PROSPER (Profiling of Oncology Patients as part of Clinical care and Research) project. In 2016, National Cancer Institute (NCI) invested US$ 3.9 billion for cancer research activities, which accounts for 70.8% of overall NCI 2016 budget. It invested around US$ 533 million on cancer detection and diagnostic research activities. Moreover, in 2016, NCI allocated 40.4% of its funds for Research Project Grants (RPGs). Furthermore, in 2017, NCI budget increased by US$ 454 million (8.7%) from previous year (2016) for cancer research activities. These increasing research and development (R&D) activities in biomarkers is expected augment growth of global cancer biomarkers market.High Prevalence and Incidence of Cancer is expected to Drive Growth of the Cancer Biomarkers MarketBreast cancer is the second most common type of cancer in the U.S., after skin cancer. Breast cancer can occur both, in men and women. However, it is mostly found among females and the male occurrence of breast cancer is very rare. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), in 2014, 236,968 women and 2,141 men in the U.S. were diagnosed with breast cancer, while 41,211 women and 465 men in the U.S. died from breast cancer. According to the Cancer Research U.K., 2015 statistics, 55,122 new cases of breast cancer were registered in 2015, in the U.K. Moreover, according to the similar source, in U.K., breast cancer is the most common cancer, which accounted for 15% of all new cancer cases in 2015.According to the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), in 2012, an estimated 14.1 million new cancer cases were reported. Among these, the most common form of cancer was lung cancer (13%), breast cancer (11.9%), and colorectal cancer (9.7%). According to the World Cancer Research Fund (WCRF) International, 2015 data findings, 58% of the lung cancer cases were reported in emerging economies, in 2014. Hungary had the highest rate of lung cancer, followed by Serbia, and North Korea. Moreover, highest incidence of lung cancer was registered in North America and Europe, for the same year. According to the National Cancer Institute, in 2014, around 66,771 people were suffering from liver and intrahepatic bile duct cancer in the U.S. Liver and intrahepatic bile duct cancer represented 2.4% of all new cancer cases reported in the U.S. in 2014. Moreover, obesity, diabetes, alcoholic liver disease (cirrhosis), chronic hepatitis B, hepatitis C infections, tobacco, and smoking are the most common risk factors for liver cancer. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), February 2018 data findings, each year in the U.S., around 22,000 men and 9,000 women suffer from liver cancer, and around 16,000 men and 8,000 women die from liver cancer. Thus, substantial increase in incidence and mortality rate of liver cancer in the country, is expected to boost growth of cancer biomarkers market, in the near future.Key players operating in the cancer biomarkers market include BioMerieux S.A., Bard1 Life Sciences Limited, Bio-Rad Laboratories, Abbott Laboratories, Becton, Dickinson and Company, Merck & Co., Inc., Qiagen N.V., and Thermo Fisher Scientific 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.Contact Us:Mr.ShahCoherent Market Insights1001 4th Ave,#3200Seattle, WA 98154Tel: +1-206-701-6702Email:sales@coherentmarketinsights.com Dark Days On May 19, 1780 And 1980 Signal US Judgment On May 19 For 10 Reasons According To Dr. Richard Ruhling, Biblical Prophecy Expert http://richardruhling.com Author and Biblical prophecy expert Richard Ruhling believes May 19 holds significance for Christians worldwide. He offers 10 compelling reasons why this is so. According to Ruhling:May 19, 1780 was a historic Dark Day. Pioneers in New England couldnt eat or read without lamps at noon. Many believed it signaled the day of the Lord foretold in Joel 2.May 19, 1980 was also a dark day anniversary 200 years later when Mt St Helens erupted the day before. Wind took ash to darken three states in northwest on May 19. Was God marking May 19?Reason One. May 19 this year is expected to be huge because the day of the Lord comes as a thiefwhen they shall say Peace and safety, sudden destruction comes. 1Thessalonians 5:2,3. The popes peace talks between Catholics and Muslims in February fits St. Pauls prophecy.Reason Two. President Trumps Peace Plan announcement on May 15 is also peace and safety with biblical timing. May 15 is the 10th day counting from the new moon crescent. Its the date a sacrifice was chosen for Passover/ judgment, Exod 12:2,3. This 2nd month is clued by Christs last six parables, explained in the next six reasons:Reason Three. As the days of Noah, the Flood came with Passover timing (time of judgment) but in the 2nd spring month. Noah entered the ark on the 10th day. When people refused Noahs invitation, they selected themselves for sacrifice. Failure to see parallel signs and act biblically will mean trouble as events unfold. Joel Skousens book, 'Strategic Relocation', (out of cities) is an example.A similar warning by Christ to flee applies now. When you see the abomination standing where it ought not, Mark 13:14. Early believers understood the warning as applying to Rome, and when the Roman army under Cestius came in 66 AD, Christians fled Jerusalem and were spared the siege when Titus came 3 1/2 years later at Passover.May 19 is also Passover for reasons shown in 9-11. Numbers 9:10,11 provides for Passover as a time of judgment a month later as the days of Noah and other parables by Christ.Like the Roman army in 66 AD coming 3 1/2 years before Titus, Pope Francis came to US Congress 3 1/2 years ago and the 1.4 mile-long train with tanks designed for urban warfare seen recently near Sacramento suggest an unhappy replay of history as military moves to a UN gun-grab that ends constitutional rights?Reason Four. Then shall two be in the field. One shall be taken and the other left. Matt 24:40 Then means at the same time as the Flood--2nd Passover. Luke 17:36,37 has more The disciples asked, Where, Lord? He replied--Where the body is, there will eagles gather. Could this be genocide like Rwanda had against Protestant Tutsis in spite of the UN having vehicles everywhere in Kigali, but did nothing to stop the slaughter?Reason Five. The goodman, if he had known, would have watched and not suffered his house to be broken, Matt 24:43. The only prior reference to goodman is Proverb 7:19, KJV. The goodman is a long journeyand will come home at the full moon. (yom kece)Passover comes on a full moon, but long journey means 2nd Passover. If Israelites took a long trip and couldnt get back for Passover, they kept it a month later as provided in the law of Numbers 9:10,11. This fits May 19/20 again.Reason Six. The evil servant begins to smite his fellow servants. The next parable begins Then It has the same timing as that 10 virgin parable which has 9-11 timing againReason Seven. When five missed the wedding, Christ said Watch Its a clue for Passover as the only night being awake was required, Exod 12:10; Matt 26:38-41. He said, You dont know. (bad translation) Eido means be aware, consider, understand. So He said, You dont understand because its like a long journey, Matt 25:13,14, as #3 above.Reason Eight. In the last parable, Christ was the Master who took the long journey to heaven and we should expect His return (invisibly in judgment as God came to Egypt) to conform to His law of 2nd Passover because the law is still in effect, Matthew 5:18.The slothful servant who didnt know when the Master was coming lost his talent. Passover is a time to not appear empty before God, Exod 23:15. Taking money out of the bank in anticipation of this event may mean you have your money if banks close!Reason Nine. All of the above as a consequence of calamity at 2nd Passover implies something huge, as the days of Noah. Conventional wisdom says, Wait and see but it takes no faith to wait and see, and the wedding parables like Lk 12:36 show a sudden event beyond which it is too late to get ready--serious loss of a promised high destiny.Reason Ten. The high destiny is seen in Lukes wedding parable. Blessed is that servant whom his lord finds watching when he comes. He will gird himself and make him sit to eat and will serve himHe will make him ruler over all that He hasto whom much is given, much is required. Luke 12:35-48. Isnt this reason enough--why not?For more information, readers may visit Ruhling's websites or get a copy of the books shown there at no charge from Amazon on Saturday, May 11.Dr. Richard Ruhling attended a Bible college with a Religion major. The end times have been a special interest for him since attending a prophecy conference 30 years ago. He is an expert on Biblical prophecy and the author of 'The Alpha & Omega Bible Code', 'The Earthquake & the 7 Seals'Press Contact:Richard RuhlingPO Box 1613Shallotte, NC 29459don@heavenonearthsystem.com910-842-9248 Ureteroscopes Market Comprehensive study by Key Players Olympus Corporation, Stryker Corporation, KARL STORZ SE & Co. KG, Richard Wolf GmbH, PENTAX Medical, Elmed Electronics & Medical Industry Ureteroscopes https://www.coherentmarketinsights.com/insight/request-sample/1603 https://www.coherentmarketinsights.com/insight/request-pdf/1603 Ureteroscope is a device, which is used for examining upper urinary tract and the technique is called ureteroscopy. Ureteroscope works similar to a cytoscope, however, it is longer and thinner than cytoscope, and is passed through the urethra to the bladder and then into the ureter (the tubes, which carry urine from kidneys to bladder). Ureteroscope has illuminating light and lens for capturing images of urinary tract organs for presence of tumors and calculi. This device helps to find the position of stone in ureter and is also used for the removal of kidney stone. Ureteroscopy is less harmful and less time consuming procedure to remove kidney stone and shows high accuracy and less complications than conventional methods such as percutaneous nephrolithotripsy (PCNL) and extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL).Ureteroscopes Market DriversIncreasing approvals and launches of new ureteroscopes devices is expected to be a major factor for growth of the global ureteroscopes market. For instance, in 2016, Boston Scientific Corporation launched its new LithoVue single-use digital flexible ureteroscope in the U.S. and Europe market. LithoVue is used in minimally invasive diagnosis and treatment of kidney stones and other conditions of the kidney, ureter, and bladder.Furthermore, increasing prevalence of kidney stone is expected to increase demand for ureteroscopes and fuel the market growth. For instance, according to the data published by National Kidney Foundation in 2016, globally, over half a billion people suffer from kidney stone annually. According to data published by National Institute of Health, in 2016, globally, total prevalence of chronic kidney disease is around 14.0% of the general population.Ureteroscopes Market Taxonomy:The global ureteroscopes market is segmented on the basis of product type, application, end user, and region:By Product Type-Flexible UreteroscopesFiberoptic UreteroscopesDigital UreteroscopesSemi-rigid UreteroscopesRigid UreteroscopesBy Application-TherapeuticsUrolithiasisKidney CancerUreteral StincturesRequest A Sample Copy:Moreover, prevalence of kidney stones also increases with increasing age. According to the data published in National Center for Biotechnology Information, in 2017, in Mainland China the prevalence of kidney stone was 5.96% in the people aged between 30-39 years, while the prevalence was around 9.68% in people above 60 years of age. Hence, rise in geriatric population is also expected to increase incidence of kidney stone, which in turn is expected to increase demand for ureteroscopes and fuel market growth in the near future. For instance, according to the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) 2016, around 547 million people were aged above 60 years in Asia Pacific and the number is projected to reach around 1.3 billion by 2050.Ureteroscopes Market Regional AnalysisNorth America is expected to hold the dominant position in global ureteroscopes market, due to presence of key players in the region and high success rates of ureteroscopy. For instance, according to data published by Department of Urology, New York Medical College, in 2016, after a single procedure, around 37% of patients who had undergone flexible ureteroscopy were stone free as compare to only 21% of the patients who were treated with Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL). Moreover, Boston Scientific Corporation and Stryker Corporation are the two U.S.-based major players in this market. Furthermore, increasing prevalence of kidney stone in the U.S. is also expected to increase demand for ureteroscopes, which is turn is driving the market growth in North America. For instance, according to data published in National Center for Biotechnology Information, in 2014, according to survey done by National Health and Nutrition Examination in 2012, around 10.6% of men and 7.1% of women in the U.S. are affected from renal stone disease and there is a rapid increase in prevalence of urinary tract stone disease. Asia Pacific is expected to exhibit significant growth in the global ureteroscopes market, owing to increasing incidence of kidney stone disease in population in India and China. For instance, according to data published in National Center for Biotechnology Information in 2017, the prevalence of kidney stone in Mainland China was estimated to be around 10.34% in males and 6.62% in females.Ureteroscopes Market RestraintHigh cost of ureteroscopy procedure is expected to be a major restrain for growth of the global ureteroscopes market. The average cost of ureteroscopy in the U.S. can go up to around US$ 3,000. Such high cost procedures are not easily affordable by everyone and hence it restrain the market growth.Ureteroscopes Market Key PlayersKey players operating in ureteroscopes market include Boston Scientific Corporation, Olympus Corporation, Stryker Corporation, KARL STORZ SE & Co. KG, Richard Wolf GmbH, PENTAX Medical, Elmed Electronics & Medical Industry & Trade Inc., AED.MD, SCHOLLY FIBEROPTIC GMBH, OPCOM Inc., Prosurg, Inc., SOPRO-COMEG GmbH, and others.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.Contact Us:Mr.ShahCoherent Market Insights1001 4th Ave,#3200Seattle, WA 98154Tel: +1-206-701-6702Email:sales@coherentmarketinsights.com Industrial Fastener Market| Top Key Players- AAA Aircraft Supply, Bulten AB, ARaymond, Precision Castparts Corp., ContMid Group, Illinois Tool Works Inc., Nifco Inc https://www.kdmarketinsights.com/sample/226 https://www.kdmarketinsights.com/product/industrial-fastener-market-2017 https://www.kdmarketinsights.com/discount/226 www.kdmarketinsights.com A Comprehensive research study conducted by KD Market Insights on "Industrial Fastener Market - By Type (Threaded Fasteners, Non Threaded Fasteners), By Application (Vehicles, Machinery Equipment, Aerospace, Electrical & Electronic Products, Furniture and Wood Products, Construction, Maintenance, Repair and Operations, Others), By Material (Metal, Plastic), By Sales (OEM, Aftermarket) & Global Region - Market Size, Trends, Share & Forecast 2018-2023" report offers extensive and highly detailed historical, current and future market trends in the Global and regional/market. The Industrial Fastener Market report includes market size, growth drivers, barriers, opportunities, trends and other information which helps to find new opportunities in this market for the growth of the business through new technologies and developments.The global industrial fastener market is anticipated to flourish at a CAGR of 5.1% during the forecast period i.e. 2018-2023. Significant growth in industrial industry and rising production of vehicles are envisioned to strengthen the growth of industrial fastener market during the forecast period. Further, continuous enhancement and development of superior quality fasteners is anticipated to buoys industrial fastener market.Request for Sample @SegmentationThe research offers a comprehensive analysis of industrial fastener market with respect to following sub-markets:By Type- Threaded Fasteners- - - Internally Threaded Fasteners- - - Externally Threaded Fasteners- Non-Threaded FastenersBy Product- Bolts- Nuts- Screws- Rivets & Washers- OthersBy Application- Vehicles- Machinery Equipment- Aerospace- Electrical & Electronic Products- Furniture & Wood Products- Construction- Maintenance, Repair and Operations- OthersBy Material- Metal- PlasticBy Sales- OEM- AftermarketBy Geography- North America (U.S. & Canada)- Europe (Germany, United Kingdom, France, Italy, Spain, Russia and Rest of Europe)- Asia Pacific (China, India, Japan, South Korea, Indonesia, Taiwan, Australia, New Zealand and Rest of Asia Pacific)- Latin America (Brazil, Mexico, Argentina and Rest of Latin America)- Middle East & Africa (GCC, North Africa, South Africa and Rest of Middle East & Africa)Competitive LandscapeThe report profiles various major market players such as- Acument Global Technologies, Inc.- ALLFAST Fastening Systems, LLC- AAA Aircraft Supply- Bulten AB- ARaymond- Precision Castparts Corp.- ContMid Group- Illinois Tool Works Inc.- Nifco Inc- Koninklijke Nedschroef Holding B.V.- Nucor Corporation- Shanghai Prime Machinery Co.,Ltd.- Stanley Black & Decker, Inc.- Nipman Industrial Solutions- Other Major & Niche Key PlayersCompetitive landscape analysis provides detailed strategic analysis of the companys business and performance such as financial information, revenue breakup by segment and by geography, SWOT Analysis, risk analysis, key facts, company overview, business strategy, key product offerings, marketing and distribution strategies, new product development and recent news (acquisition, expansion, technology development, research & development expansion and other market activities).Browse Full Report with TOC @Table of Contents:Research MethodologyMarket Definition and List of Abbreviations1. Executive Summary2. Growth Drivers & Issues in Global Industrial Fastener Market3. Global Industrial Fastener Market Trends4. Opportunities in Global Industrial Fastener Market5. Recent Industry Activities, 20176. Porter's Five Forces Analysis7. Market Value Chain and Supply Chain Analysis8. Global Industrial Fastener Market Size (USD Million), Forecast & Y-o-Y Growth Analysis, 2017-20239. Global Industrial Fastener Market Segmentation Analysis, By Type9.1. Introduction9.2. Market Attractiveness, By Type9.3. BPS Analysis, By Type9.4. Threaded Fasteners Market Size (USD Million), Forecast & Y-o-Y Growth Analysis, 2017-20239.4.1. Internally Threaded Fasteners Market Size (USD Million), Forecast & Y-o-Y Growth Analysis, 2017-20239.4.2. Externally Threaded Fasteners Market Size (USD Million), Forecast & Y-o-Y Growth Analysis, 2017-20239.5. Non-Threaded Fasteners Market Size (USD Million), Forecast & Y-o-Y Growth Analysis, 2017-202310. Global Industrial Fastener Market Segmentation Analysis, By Product10.1. Introduction10.2. Market Attractiveness, By Product10.3. BPS Analysis, By Product10.4. Bolts Market Size (USD Million), Forecast & Y-o-Y Growth Analysis, 2017-202310.5. Nuts Market Size (USD Million), Forecast & Y-o-Y Growth Analysis, 2017-202310.6. Screws Market Size (USD Million), Forecast & Y-o-Y Growth Analysis, 2017-202310.7. Rivets & Washers Market Size (USD Million), Forecast & Y-o-Y Growth Analysis, 2017-202310.8. Others Market Size (USD Million), Forecast & Y-o-Y Growth Analysis, 2017-202311. Global Industrial Fastener Market Segmentation Analysis, By Application11.1. Introduction11.2. Market Attractiveness, By Application11.3. BPS Analysis, By Application11.4. Vehicles Market Size (USD Million), Forecast & Y-o-Y Growth Analysis, 2017-202311.5. Machinery Equipment Market Size (USD Million), Forecast & Y-o-Y Growth Analysis, 2017-202311.6. Aerospace Market Size (USD Million), Forecast & Y-o-Y Growth Analysis, 2017-202311.7. Electrical & Electronic Products Market Size (USD Million), Forecast & Y-o-Y Growth Analysis, 2017-202311.8. Furniture & Wood Products Market Size (USD Million), Forecast & Y-o-Y Growth Analysis, 2017-202311.9. Construction Market Size (USD Million), Forecast & Y-o-Y Growth Analysis, 2017-202311.10. Maintenance, Repair and Operations Market Size (USD Million), Forecast & Y-o-Y Growth Analysis, 2017-202311.11. Others Market Size (USD Million), Forecast & Y-o-Y Growth Analysis, 2017-202312. Global Industrial Fastener Market Segmentation Analysis, By Material12.1. Introduction12.2. Market Attractiveness, By Material12.3. BPS Analysis, By Material12.4. Metal Market Size (USD Million), Forecast & Y-o-Y Growth Analysis, 2017-202312.5. Plastic Market Size (USD Million), Forecast & Y-o-Y Growth Analysis, 2017-202313. Global Industrial Fastener Market Segmentation Analysis, By Sales13.1. Introduction13.2. Market Attractiveness, By Sales13.3. BPS Analysis, By Sales13.4. OEM Market Size (USD Million), Forecast & Y-o-Y Growth Analysis, 2017-202313.5. Aftermarket Market Size (USD Million), Forecast & Y-o-Y Growth Analysis, 2017-202314. Geographical Analysis14.1. Introduction14.2. North America Industrial Fastener Market Size (USD Million), Forecast & Y-o-Y Growth Analysis, 2017-202314.2.1. By Type14.2.2. By Product14.2.3. By Application14.2.4. By Material14.2.5. By Sales14.2.6. By Country14.2.6.1. Market Attractiveness, By End-user14.2.6.2. BPS Analysis, By End-User14.2.6.3. U.S. Market Size (USD Million), Forecast & Y-o-Y Growth Analysis, 2017-202314.2.6.4. Canada Market Size (USD Million), Forecast & Y-o-Y Growth Analysis, 2017-2023ContinueCheck for Discount @About Us:KD Market Insights offers a comprehensive database of syndicated research studies, customized reports, and consulting services. These reports are created to help in making smart, instant and crucial decisions based on extensive and in-depth quantitative information, supported by extensive analysis and industry insights. Our dedicated in-house team ensures the reports satisfy the requirement of the client. We aim at providing value service to our clients. Our reports are backed by extensive industry coverage and is made sure to give importance to the specific needs of our clients. The main idea is to enable our clients to make an informed decision, by keeping them and ourselves up to date with the latest trends in the market.Contact Us:KD Market Insights150 State Street, Albany,New York, USA 12207+1 (518) 300-1215Email: sales@kdmarketinsights.comWebsite: Land Seismic Equipment & Acquisition Market Emerging Top Key Players to Watch- Schlumberge, Saudi Aramco, Royal Dutch Shell, Sinopec in 2018-2026 https://www.marketresearchreports.biz/sample/sample/6783 https://www.marketresearchreports.biz/sample/toc/6783 https://www.marketresearchreports.biz/ Land seismic equipment are used to acquire seismic data from onshore production of oil and gas. The equipment consist of vibrator source which is used to create shock waves that traverse through the rocks below the surface of the earth. The shock waves that reflect off the subsurface rock formations and back to the surface are recorded using geophones. Transmitters or cables are used to transmit information from the geophones to the recorder truck. Seismic waves indicate the geological nature of the area surveyed and the possibility of presence of oil or gas reserves. The reduction in oil prices in 2014 was due to a sharp decline in land seismic acquisition contract awards and capital expenditure (CAPEX) on equipment.Free Sample Copy of this report @Land Seismic Equipment & Acquisition Market: Market DemandRise in global demand for oil & gas in various industries such as the power industry is one of the major drivers of the global land seismic equipment & acquisition market. Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) countries need to increase their oil production by drilling new wells to meet the rising demand for fuel. Most of the oil-producing countries require oil companies to explore and drill oil fields to produce fuel from greenfield wells to cater to the high demand for fuel across globe. New drilling projects are anticipated to increase the demand for oilfield services, which is expected to fuel the global land seismic equipment & acquisition market during the forecast period. Digitization of oil fields is projected to boost the global land seismic equipment & acquisition market in the near future. Introduction of advanced technologies such as predictive maintenance and remote monitoring are expected to improve the cost-effectiveness and improve visibility and operations.Improved receiver sampling along with high productivity and wide broadband signal in the source domain are the geophysical domains. With the increase in volumes of data being recorded in the field to see some novel solutions emerging which deal with automation, remote analysis, and data management. The geophysical domain focuses on technologies such as the internet of things migrating into industry to resist challenges associated with deploying a complex operation of personnel, vehicles and equipment in remote locations.Land Seismic Equipment & Acquisition Market: Key SegmentsThe global land seismic equipment & acquisition market can be segmented based on equipment, services, and region. In terms of equipment, the global land seismic equipment & acquisition market can be divide into geophones, vibration sources, and cables. Based on services, the market can be segregated into land seismic acquisition, seismic reservoir characterization, geophysical processing & imaging, survey design and modeling, seismic for unconventional resources, borehole seismic, geographic software, and others. Seismic reservoir characterization is for modeling the sub-surface. It is a fully integrated set of services to define the reservoir structure and properties and build an accurate models of the subsurface. However, the survey design and modeling segment is used to achieve the best return on the investment in seismic acquisition.Land Seismic Equipment & Acquisition Market: Regional OutlookBased on region, the global land seismic equipment & acquisition market can be segmented into North America, Latin America, Asia Pacific, Europe, and Middle East & Africa. Asia Pacific held a major share of the global land seismic equipment & acquisition market due to high no of wells drilled in the region in 2016. China is a key country in Asia Pacific region for global land seismic equipment & acquisition market augmented to drill about 15,800 wells in 2016. Europe is another key region driving the global land seismic equipment & acquisition market due to the large number of wells drill (9,448) in 2016. Europe is followed by North America, Middle East & Africa, and Latin America.The Middle East & Africa is a hub for most of the technological developments in this industry. In an era of lower price oil and growth in gas demand, onshore exploration should continue to have a reasonable future. Onshore operations are generally at the lower end of the cost equation as compared to deep-water operations. This, in turn, is expected to boost the global land seismic equipment & acquisition market during the forecast period. However, rise in in demand for technology development and lower costs creates pressure on equipment manufacturers struggling after several lean years. These combat requires collaboration among competing manufacturers and external technology providers with deep understanding of oil companies and seismic contractor requirements.Land Seismic Equipment & Acquisition Market: Key PlayersKey players operating in the global land seismic equipment & acquisition market include Schlumberger Limited, Acoustic Geophysical Services (AGS), Asian Oilfield Services Limited, Saudi Aramco, Royal Dutch Shell, Sinopec, Total, Advent Oilfield Services, and Tesla Exploration Ltd.Request For TOC of Report @MRR.BIZ has been compiled in-depth market research data in the report after exhaustive primary and secondary research. Our team of able, experienced in-house analysts has collated the information through personal interviews and study of industry databases, journals, and reputable paid sources.The report provides the following information:Tailwinds and headwinds molding the markets trajectoryMarket segments based on products, technology, and applicationsProspects of each segmentOverall current and possible future size of the marketGrowth pace of the marketCompetitive landscape and key players strategiesThe main aim of the report is to:Enable key stakeholders in the market bet right on itUnderstand the opportunities and pitfalls awaiting themAssess the overall growth scope in the near termStrategize effectively with respect to production and distributionMRR.BIZ is a leading provider of strategic market research. Our vast repository consists research reports, data books, company profiles, and regional market data sheets. We regularly update the data and analysis of a wide-ranging products and services around the world. As readers, you will have access to the latest information on almost 300 industries and their sub-segments. Both large Fortune 500 companies and SMEs have found those useful. This is because we customize our offerings keeping in mind the specific requirements of our clients.About usMarketResearchReports.biz is the most comprehensive collection of market research reports. MarketResearchReports.Biz services are specially designed to save time and money for our clients. We are a one stop solution for all your research needs, our main offerings are syndicated research reports, custom research, subscription access and consulting services. We serve all sizes and types of companies spanning across various industries.ContactMr. NachiketState Tower90 Sate Street, Suite 700Albany, NY 12207Tel: +1-518-621-2074Website:Email: sales@marketresearchreports.biz NdFeB Permanent Magnets Market 2019 | Worldwide Forecast 2025 | Major Players - Hitachi Metals, MMC, Vacuumschmelze, Zhong Ke San Huan, ETC. NdFeB Permanent Magnets Market https://www.upmarketresearch.com/home/requested_sample/126207 https://www.upmarketresearch.com/home/enquiry_before_buying/126207 https://www.upmarketresearch.com/home/requested_sample/126207 https://www.upmarketresearch.com/home/request_for_discount/126207 www.upmarketresearch.com NdFeB Permanent Magnets research report delivers a close watch on leading competitors with strategic analysis, micro and macro market trend and scenarios, pricing analysis and a holistic overview of the market situations in the forecast period.Get Exclusive FREE Sample Copy Of this Report @UpMarketResearch offers a latest published report on Global NdFeB Permanent Magnets Analysis and Forecast 2019 - 2025 delivering key insights and providing a competitive advantage to clients through a detailed report. The report highly exhibit on current market analysis scenario, upcoming as well as future opportunities, revenue growth, pricing and profitability.It is a professional and a detailed report focusing on primary and secondary drivers, market share, leading segments and geographical analysis. Further, key players, major collaborations, merger & acquisitions along with trending innovation and business policies are reviewed in the report. The report contains basic, secondary and advanced information pertaining to the NdFeB Permanent Magnets global status and trend, market size, share, growth, trends analysis, segment and forecasts from 2019 2025.The scope of the report extends from market scenarios to comparative pricing between major players, cost and profit of the specified market regions. The numerical data is backed up by statistical tools such as SWOT analysis, BCG matrix, SCOT analysis, PESTLE analysis and so on. The statistics are represented in graphical format for a clear understanding on facts and figures.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 NdFeB Permanent Magnets analysis & forecast 2019 - 2025 is segmented into Product Segment, Application Segment & Major players.Region- wise Analysis covers: North America Europe China Japan India Southeast Asia Other regions (Central & South America, Middle East & Africa)The Major players reported in the market include: Hitachi Metals MMC Vacuumschmelze Zhong Ke San Huan TDK Zhenfhai Magnetic Ningbo Yunsheng Tianhe Magnets Shougang Magnetic Material Jingci MagnetProduct Segment Analysis: Bonded Ndfeb Sintered NdfebApplication Segment Analysis: Electric Motors Instruments And Meters Auto Industry OtherMajor Topics Covered in this Report: Chapter 1 Study Coverage Chapter 2 Executive Summary Chapter 3 Market Size by Manufacturers Chapter 4 Production by Regions Chapter 5 Consumption by Regions Chapter 6 Market Size by Type Chapter 7 Market Size by Application Chapter 8 Manufacturers Profiles Chapter 9 Production Forecasts Chapter 10 Consumption Forecast Chapter 11 Upstream, Industry Chain and Downstream Customers Analysis Chapter 12 Opportunities & Challenges, Threat and Affecting Factors Chapter 13 Key Findings Chapter 14 AppendixGet Exclusive FREE Sample Copy Of this Report @NdFeB Permanent Magnets Analysis and Forecast 2019 - 2025 report helps the clients to take business decisions and to understand strategies of major players in the industry. The report also calls for market- driven results deriving feasibility studies for client needs. UpMarketResearch ensures qualified and verifiable aspects of market data operating in the real- time scenario. The analytical studies are conducted ensuring client needs with a thorough understanding of market capacities in the real- time scenario.GlobalNdFeB Permanent Magnets: Key Stakeholders: Manufacturers Distributors/Traders/Wholesalers Subcomponent Manufacturers Industry Association Downstream VendorsIn this study, the years considered to estimate the market size are as follows: History Year: 2013-2018 Base Year: 2018 Estimated Year: 2019 Forecast Year 2019 to 2025Key Reasons to Purchase: To gain insightful analyses of the market and have a comprehensive understanding of the Global NdFeB Permanent Magnets Analysis and Forecast 2019 - 2025 and its commercial landscape. Learn about the market strategies that are being adopted by your competitors and leading organizations. 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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. Exclusive Statistical Report on Protective Goggles Market: Industry to Observe Strong Development by 2025| In-Depth Analysis by Global Leaders such Honeywell, 3M, Pyramex, Crews Protective Goggles https://www.htfmarketreport.com/sample-report/1834680-southeast-asia-protective-goggles-market-report https://www.htfmarketreport.com/reports/1834680-southeast-asia-protective-goggles-market-report https://www.htfmarketreport.com/buy-now?format=1&report=1834680 HTF MI newly added the Southeast Asia Protective Goggles Market Study that gives meticulous investigation of current scenario of the Market size, share, demand, growth, trends, and forecast in the coming years.The report firstly introduced the Southeast Asia Protective Goggles Market basics: definitions, classifications, applications and market overview; product specifications; manufacturing processes; cost structures, raw materials and so on. Then it analyzed the world main region market conditions, including the product price, profit, capacity, production, supply, demand and market growth rate and forecast etc.Companies Profiled in this report includes: Honeywell, 3M, Pyramex, Crews, Elvex & JacksonGet the inside scoop of the Sample report @:The research study gives a complete list of all the leading players working in the Southeast Asia Protective Goggles Market. Moreover, the financial status, company profiles, business strategies and policies, along with latest expansions in the worldwide market have been mentioned in the research study.Research objectives To study and analyze the Southeast Asia Protective Goggles Market size by key regions/countries, product type and application, history data from 2013 to 2018, and forecast to 2025. To understand the structure of Southeast Asia Protective Goggles Market by identifying its various sub segments. Focuses on the key Southeast Asia Protective Goggles Market players, to define, describe and analyze the value, market share, market competition landscape, SWOT analysis and development plans in next few years. To analyze the Southeast Asia Protective Goggles Market with respect to individual growth trends, future prospects, and their contribution to the total market. To share detailed information about the key factors influencing the growth of the market (growth potential, opportunities, drivers, industry-specific challenges and risks). To project the size of Southeast Asia Protective Goggles Market, with respect to key regions, type [, Type I, Type II & Type III] and applications [Application I, Application II & Application III]. To analyze competitive developments such as expansions, agreements, new product launches and acquisitions in the market.Read Detailed Index of full Research Study at @In this report you will also find additional deals into key geographical segments of Southeast Asia Protective Goggles Market and deliver details about their current and former share. Ongoing trends, upcoming Challenges, future better regional investments and many other influencing factors have been considered and presented.The regions Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam & Singapore have been studied in depth to gain better market penetration and assure exact analysis. Top manufacturers have been given prime importance to make sure their strategies are understood and their position in this particular market can be elucidated.Acquire Single User PDF license of this research report @In the end, the report includes Southeast Asia Protective Goggles Market new project SWOT analysis, investment feasibility analysis, investment return analysis, and development analysis. The report also presents a round-up of vulnerabilities which companies operating in the market must avoid in order to enjoy sustainable growth through the course of the forecast period.Thanks for reading this article; you can also get individual chapter wise section or region wise report version like North America, Europe or Asia (China, India, Japan etc) or Oceania [Australia and New Zealand].Fundamentals of Table of Content:1 Report Overview1.1 Study Scope1.2 Key Market Segments1.3 Players Covered1.4 Market Analysis by Type1.5 Market by Application1.6 Study Objectives1.7 Years Considered2 Global Growth Trends2.1 Southeast Asia Protective Goggles Market Size2.2 Southeast Asia Protective Goggles Growth Trends by Regions2.3 Industry Trends3 Market Share by Key Players3.1 Southeast Asia Protective Goggles Market Size by Manufacturers3.2 Southeast Asia Protective Goggles Key Players Head office and Area Served3.3 Key Players Product/Solution/Service3.4 Enter barriers in Southeast Asia Protective Goggles Market3.5 Mergers, Acquisitions, Expansion Plans4 Southeast Asia Protective Goggles Market by Product4.1 Southeast Asia Protective Goggles Sales by Product4.2 Southeast Asia Protective Goggles Revenue by Product4.3 Southeast Asia Protective Goggles Price by Product5 Southeast Asia Protective Goggles Market by End User5.1 Overview5.2 Southeast Asia Protective Goggles by End UserAbout Author:HTF Market Report is a wholly owned brand of HTF market Intelligence Consulting Private Limited. HTF Market Report global research and market intelligence consulting organization is uniquely positioned to not only identify growth opportunities but to also empower and inspire you to create visionary growth strategies for futures, enabled by our extraordinary depth and breadth of thought leadership, research, tools, events and experience that assist you for making goals into a reality. Our understanding of the interplay between industry convergence, Mega Trends, technologies and market trends provides our clients with new business models and expansion opportunities. We are focused on identifying the Accurate Forecast in every industry we cover so our clients can reap the benefits of being early market entrants and can accomplish their Goals & Objectives.Contact US :Craig Francis (PR & Marketing Manager)HTF Market Intelligence Consulting Private LimitedUnit No. 429, Parsonage Road Edison, NJNew Jersey USA 08837Phone: +1 (206) 317 1218sales@htfmarketreport.com The Multnomah County District Attorneys Office found no criminal wrongdoing by a Vancouver police officer who fired 41 rifle shots through the windshield of a patrol car in February during a chase of murder suspect that shut down one of Portlands freeways and hit speeds of up to 110 miles per hour. District Attorney Rod Underhill announced Wednesday that he had finished reviewing the Feb. 5 police shooting and chase and had found that Vancouver Police Officer James Porter acted lawfully. The district attorneys office chose not to present the shooting to a grand jury for review. Vancouver Cpl. Ryan Starbuck, as well as Sgt. Joe Graaf, who approved or were involved in a so-called pit maneuver to stop the truck that murder suspect Erkinson Bossy was driving, also acted lawfully. Porter was in the passenger seat of a patrol car pursuing Bossy, one of three suspects in the robbery and fatal shooting of a Kelso store clerk on Jan. 22. Officers started pursuing Bossy in Vancouver, then followed him into Multnomah County on Interstate 205 southbound. The chase continued on I-84 westbound, and officers had to shut down the freeway. While on I-205, Porter shot at Bossys truck 41 times through his windshield. He said that he did so because he thought Bossy was pointing a gun at him and his partner, Vancouver Officer Cody Esau, who was driving the car and had been on the job less than a year. Porter was acting that day as Esaus field training officer. Porter, according to the district attorneys office summary, told investigators he thought Bossys truck had slowed, and he saw him turn his body and extend his arm toward their car. "Officer Porter determined he had a safe backdrop of woods and trees beyond the bending roadway and, fearing for his own safety and for the safety of his partner, fired his rifle through the windshield of the patrol vehicle at the fleeing truck,'' according to deputy district attorney Todd Jacksons decline-to-prosecute memo said. "He saw what he described as puffs of glass coming from the passenger compartment of the truck which, based on his experience as a combat veteran, appeared to be compression bursts from gunfire coming from inside. '' When the chase moved onto I-84, Sgt. Graaf authorized Starbuck to immobilize the truck through a pit maneuver, ramming into the rear side of Bossys truck, ending the chase. Using such a maneuver at high rates of speed constitutes use of deadly force, under Vancouver police policy. "Sergeant Graaf believed a PIT Maneuver was necessary because the pursuit was rapidly approaching downtown Portland, and he did not want to get into a shootout on downtown city streets or subject any other civilians to further risk of serious physical injury or death,'' the memo said. Bossys truck slid into the center median of the freeway, then moved across the lanes of travel to the northern Jersey barrier, according to investigators. The truck slid along the northern Jersey barrier until it came to a rest. Bossy had jumped from the truck, according to a back seat passenger, and appeared to have been run over by the truck, according to the district attorneys report. Investigators found no evidence that Bossy or his passenger, identified only as Hai Nguyen, had fired shots at the Vancouver police car, or that the police car was struck by gunfire. Bossys truck, however, was hit by multiple rifle rounds, the memo said. A gun was found inside a backpack on the front passenger floorboard in Bossys truck, but there was no evidence it had been fired. No other gun was found along the chase route, according to investigators. Nguyen was arrested at the scene, but not in connection with the chase or the murder case, according to the district attorneys office. The district attorneys office did not know what charges Nguyen initially was arrested on that night. Wednesday marked the first time Nguyens name was released as the second person taken into custody after the shooting and chase. Porter, who fired the rifle rounds at the truck, told investigators he didnt know anyone else was in the truck, other than Bossy. No one was injured from Porters gunshots, according to the district attorneys office. Bossy was injured when he jumped out of his truck. He was taken to a hospital for treatment, before he was booked into jail. Porter sustained broken glass to his eyes and mouth and was treated at a local hospital and released. Bossy, DAnthony Leslie Williams and Nenemeny W. Ekiek are now lodged in the Cowlitz County Jail and are suspected of robbing Holts Quik Chek Market in Kelso and shooting Kayla Chapman, 30. Chapman was the only person on duty at the time. After she was shot, she called the police, but she died after they arrived. All three are charged with first-degree murder and robbery, and each also faces various charges of possessing drugs, a firearm, or stolen property. Jayati Ramakrishnan; 503-221-4320; jramakrishnan@oregonian.com; @JRamakrishnan Visit subscription.oregonlive.com/newsletters to get Oregonian/OregonLive journalism delivered to your email inbox. Portlands decision to put electric scooter companies in charge of citizen complaints is troubling and translates to the government punting on its duty to hold those companies accountable for following its own regulations, a disability advocacy group said this week. Disability Rights Oregon, a nonprofit that offers legal advice and representation for people with disabilities in civil rights cases, said it is deeply concerned that Portlands latest attempt to regulate e-scooters was approved without an open and transparent public process, to the detriment of people who use motorized vehicles to get around, older Oregonians and others who are entitled to equal access to our public spaces. The most troubling part of the 12-month e-scooter trial that began last month, the advocates said, is the decision to put the mobility companies in charge of documenting and relaying complaints about their own devices to the city. We are concerned that complaints made to private companies will be part of the public record only after they have been anonymized and assuming the companies provide this information, Disability Rights Oregons executive director Jake Cornett and staff attorney Matthew Denney wrote Thursday. The effect of this anonymizing, or scrubbing the records for any identifying information, is neutering public records requests a key tool for public transparency related to the e-scooter pilot, the disability advocates wrote. The nonprofit said the city had created a situation where the wolves were effectively in charge of the sheep. If the companies are receiving the complaints directly, they have an incentive to downplay the seriousness of any complaints received or, even worse, to withhold the information, they wrote. The letter comes in response to a May 1 story in Willamette Week outlining how Portland would handle complaints about scooters during their second trial period. On the citys website, it includes information for how to file a complaint each of the permitted companies. The website does include a city email (e-scooter@portlandoregon.gov) and voicemail 503-823-4663 for leaving feedback about the program, but comments about an improperly parked scooter or another issue are supposed to go to the companies. Portland provided links and phone numbers for the companies. Portlands four-month scooter trial last year led to more than 6,000 complaints, 29% of which were related to riders not wearing helmets. This go around, Portland is requiring the companies have a 24-hour complaint line for customer service. According to an email exchange between the city and the disability rights group, the companies will be required to respond within an hour to reports of blocked curb ramps and sidewalks. Portland plans to audit the companys response times to each complaint and the companies are expected to provide monthly reports on all anonymized complaints. The city said those complaints will be made available to the public. John Brady Portland Bureau of Transportation spokesman, said the agency shared the nonprofits concerns regarding implementing an effective, transparent and accountable complaint process. Their input has been very helpful in shaping the second scooter pilot, and we look forward to continuing the conversation about how we can ensure that scooters meet the needs of all Portlanders, he said in an email to The Oregonian/OregonLive. -- Andrew Theen atheen@oregonian.com 503-294-4026 @andrewtheen Visit subscription.oregonlive.com/newsletters to get Oregonian/OregonLive journalism delivered to your email inbox. Andre Gladen was holding Officer Consider Vosus knife when Vosu shot and killed him in January inside a Southeast Portland home, grand jury testimony confirmed Thursday. The Multnomah County District Attorneys Office released the transcript of the grand jury review, which found no criminal wrongdoing by Vosu in the Jan. 6 fatal shooting of Gladen, a 36-year-old legally blind man with schizophrenia who had burst into a strangers home. Until the transcript became public, Portland police declined to acknowledge that Gladen had seized a dagger-type knife belonging to Vosu, though sources told The Oregonian/OregonLive months earlier that the knife resembled one Vosu carried. The transcript also revealed that police had encountered Gladen earlier that same day after his cousin called 911, worried about his erratic behavior. Police didnt arrest Gladen then but had him taken to a hospital for evaluation. Hours later, Vosu responded to a house at Southeast 96th Avenue and Madison Street on a report of an unwanted person. Vosu ended up inside the house when Gladen rushed into the home after the tenant opened the door. Toxicology reports indicated Gladen had recently taken methamphetamine. After wrestling with Gladen on the floor, Vosu testified that he got up and fired his stun gun at Gladen. Gladen went down, but when he stood up again, Vosu noticed he was holding Vosus knife, normally kept in a sheath on his outer vest. "So he goes down and as he goes down, I can see that he has something in his hand and I dont register what it is,'' Vosu told the grand jury. "I admonish him again. I say, Stop or youre going to get it again. And he starts getting up again, but this time, I can register whats in his hand is my -- is my knife.'' Vosu said Gladen must have pulled it off his vest but I didnt see it happen. "I looked at the knife and I thought, That looks like my knife.' And I indexed my vest and my sheath and found them -- found it empty,' Vosu testified. Vosu backed further into the rear bedroom as Gladen came toward him with Vosus knife in his right hand. He said Gladen kept advancing toward him. Vosu acknowledged he was "effectively trapped'' before he fired his handgun three times, killing Gladen. Gladen collapsed on Vosus feet and didnt move further, the officer said. "I stepped over the subject and I see my knife sticking in the floor maybe two feet away. As I step over, I think -- Im not sure if hes still a threat or not, so I keep my gun trained on him with one hand, and I kneel down and I grab my knife with the other hand and pull it from the floor,'' Vosu testified. Vosu said he then stuck his knife back in the floor "to preserve the crime scene.'' A grand juror asked Vosu why he touched the knife after the shooting, since officers are trained not to interfere with a scene. Vosu said he was concerned Gladen could still grab it. "What prompted me was that I wasnt sure if he was -- that -- if -- if the threat was still -- was still there,'' Vosu said. The knife Gladen grabbed from Vosu was one of two he carried that day. Vosu still had another knife in a pocket of his cargo pants. The one on the vest, he said, was in a sheath that he had zip-tied to the vest. "So that the sheath cant come loose, its tied into place. Its secured on my vest,'' he said. Andrew M. Stroth, a Chicago-based lawyer representing Gladens family, called the officers account of the shooting "incredulous.'' The family doesnt believe Gladen could have grabbed the knife, he said. "You have a legally blind man with a mental health condition executed,'' Stroth said. I dont think Gladen presented a threat, he said. "I think the officer was overzealous and used excessive force. The family will be pursuing all their legal rights and remedies under the law.'' For four months, police wouldnt verify that Gladen was shot holding an officers knife. Yet the bureau changed its policy during the investigation of the case, ordering officers not to carry knives on their outer vests. Chief Danielle Outlaw said Thursday the bureau "makes every attempt to be as transparent as possible'' after a police shooting without jeopardizing an investigation or grand jury review. Early on, Detectives suspected it was the officers knife; however, they were unable to confirm it prior to the Grand Jury," Outlaw said. "These transcripts provide additional information as to what occurred and we will now move forward in our process, which includes a training and internal review. The fatal encounter began after Desmond Pescaia, the tenant, called 911 to report that a stranger, later identified as Gladen, had come to his door, began pounding on it and refused to leave. Pescaia made the call at 2:03 p.m. after giving Gladen a glass of water and offering him money for a MAX train ride that Gladen declined. Gladen became agitated when Vosu responded. Vosu said he saw Gladen was wrapped in blankets on the front stoop of Pescaias apartment. When Vosu asked him to move along, Gladen stood up. The officer noticed Gladens right eye was discolored and the pupil was askew and recalled that he was alerted by dispatch that the man was blind, according to Vosus testimony. "You can be anywhere else, but you have to move along,'' Vosu said he told Gladen. Gladen called the officer a "fake cop'' with a "fake badge,'' according to grand jury testimony. The officer said he pointed to his badge and noticed that Gladens left eye was able to focus on it. Vosu also noticed that Gladen was wearing a hospital gown and had one shoe on but on the wrong foot. "Did you just come from the hospital?' Vosu said he asked him. Gladen suddenly started kicking the apartments front door. Pescaia opened the door and grabbed a club-like tree branch that he had and held it over Gladen on the front stoop. Vosu, standing at the bottom of the stairs leading to the apartment, called for other officers to help him and told Pescaia to put down the branch, saying hed take care of it. "I call for cover cause this is not going how I want it to go,' Vosu told grand jurors. Gladen had run into the home. Vosu followed "to protect the resident; to try to stop -- to try to stop the situation from getting worse,'' the officer said. "Theres no telling what would happen if I had taken a different track,'' he said. Gladen fell onto his back in the living room, and Vosu and Pescaia struggled to get Gladen onto his stomach so the officer could handcuff him. "And Im struggling with him, grappling. Hes pushing with his left hand. Hes kind of on his hip and halfway sitting up and hes using his left hand to -- hes pushing away at me and touching my -- striking my chest,'' Vosu testified. "Hes fighting against me. Hes actively resisting,'' Vosu said. Pescaia said he put his foot on Gladens neck at one point to try to hold him down for the officer. But Gladen kicked Vosu off. Vosu, standing in front of the rear bedroom, ordered Gladen to stand back. As Gladen was partly on his feet, Vosu said he fired his Taser at Gladen. "As he goes down, I can see that he has something in his hand and I dont register what it is. I admonish him again. I say, Stop or youre going to get it again. And he starts getting up again, but this time, I can register whats in his hand is my -- is my knife,'' Vosu testified. Vosu, who had retreated into the rear bedroom, ordered Gladen to stand down before firing three shots at Gladen, who was in the doorway of the bedroom when he was shot, Pescaia said. The shooting occurred before any other officers arrived. Vosu, 42, had worked just over two years with the Police Bureau at the time of the shooting. He pursued a police career later in life after obtaining a masters degree in photography arts media and a bachelors degree in fine arts. Asked by a prosecutor if it was his intent to kill Gladen, Vosu said, "Absolutely not. That is -- thats the last thing that I would hope to have to -- I -- I never -- would never want to do that ever. I struggle with it every day.'' Officers who responded to the house after the shooting quickly noticed the knife on the floor and that it closely resembled one that many officers carry. Officer Justin Raphael told a police investigator. "Im super familiar with it. Its a Benchmade fixed blade dagger.'' East Precinct Officer Josh Letter also told an investigator, "Basically its the knives we carry. Grand jury testimony showed that police noticed when Vosu was photographed shortly after the shooting that his knife was missing from the sheath just below his badge on his outer vest. On the morning of the shooting, Gladens cousin, Diamond Randolph, had called 911. She reported that Gladen heard his "dead cousin Ernest'' talking to him and also referred to having a discussion with the devil. He had grabbed a bat and knife in her apartment and she was afraid of him, according to a police detective. By the time police arrived at her apartment in the 2400 block of Southeast 142nd Avenue, Gladen had left. Randolph told The Oregonian/OregonLive in an earlier interview that she last saw Gladen about 7 a.m. A short time later, police got a call about a man sleeping in some bushes at Southeast 145th Avenue and Division Street and it turned out to be Gladen. Its not clear where that call came from. It was cold -- in the low to mid-30s -- and Gladen had no shirt on. He was largely unresponsive to officers, grand jury testimony indicated. An officer who had responded to Randolphs apartment alerted the officers who were with Gladen not to arrest him because police had found no threats from Gladens encounter with his cousin. Gladens bat was a small souvenir-sized one and the knife was a pocketknife he was jabbing into a box at the apartment. Instead, police were instructed to have Gladen transported by ambulance to Portland Adventist Medical Center. There, doctors expressed concern about Gladens mental state but suspected he was suffering from hypothermia and had suffered a seizure. They gave him anti-epileptic medication, which seemed to help, according to a homicide detective who testified. Toxicology test results found Gladen had methamphetamine, amphetamine and cannabinoids in his system as well as the anti-seizure drug. The amount of methamphetamine suggested he had taken it shortly before his death, said Dr. Michele Taylor Stauffenberg, then-chief state medical examiner. Gladen had two gunshot wounds on the left side of his chest, she said. -- Maxine Bernstein Email at mbernstein@oregonian.com Follow on Twitter @maxoregonian Visit subscription.oregonlive.com/newsletters to get Oregonian/OregonLive journalism delivered to your email inbox. Six days after Portland Commissioner Jo Ann Hardesty urged the mayor to scrap the police gun violence team, Chief Danielle Outlaw on Wednesday drew attention to its work and defended what she says is its effectiveness. Hardesty has recommended funneling money set aside for the team and for police body cameras to the Fire Bureau and Parks & Recreation programs instead. Hardesty oversees the Fire Bureau. She suggested moving the task forces more than 30 officers back to patrol. Her idea, though, doesnt appear to have much traction among City Council colleagues. Two are opposed and one doesnt think theres enough time to consider it. Our police force is stretched thin, Hardesty said in a statement. I dont think its appropriate to continue funding a team that has been shown to racially profile and produce no evidence their tactics were effective in alleviating gang activity. Lets end this program and put those officers back on patrol to fill vacancies, where theyre severely needed, she said. The police chief responded with a list of statistics she said show the Gun Violence Reduction Team, previously called the Gang Violence Reduction Team, is effective. A bureau news release also featured examples of the toll of gun violence, including photos of an elderly couples home that has been riddled with bullets multiple times. The Police Bureau changed the teams focus last fall to respond to all shootings in the city and not just gang-related violence. Since then, the number of calls to 911 reporting gunshots has dropped 28 percent, according to the bureau. The number of shootings per month also has slightly dropped, the bureau said, pointing to 34 shootings in November, 35 in December, 34 in January, 31 in February, 32 and March and 29 in April. And the number of illegal guns seized by officers has increased: Police recovered 1,034 illegal firearms last year, compared to 759 in 2017. So far this year, police have seized 322 guns and expect to finish the year with 1,300 gun seizures if the current pace continues, according to bureau figures. The specialized police team now scours every shooting scene for spent bullet casings and then analyzes them to see if they match guns seized by police or bullets found at other shootings using a national database. So far this year, the city has recorded 135 shootings, 13 of them fatal. Gunfire has wounded 34 others. Police have recovered 655 bullet casings, the bureau said. The work being done by the Gun Violence Reduction Team is cutting edge because of the collaborative approach and investigative response, Outlaw said in a statement. We rely upon them to continue the collaboration with community partners to reduce gun violence city-wide using nationally recognized best practices. The current back-and-forth between Hardesty and police follows Hardestys recent successful drive to remove Portland police from serving on the FBI-led Joint Terrorism Task Force and her outspoken criticism of a police lieutenant who had an extensive text message exchange with the leader of the right-wing group Patriot Prayer. Hardesty, elected last year to the City Council, said she promised in her campaign that she wouldnt only look out for the bureaus that she supervises, but would take a holistic approach to city services. She has shown a particular interest in police policy. She said she would present her recommendations as amendments to the mayors budget when the council takes up the budget for 2019-2020. Any amendments would require three votes on the council to pass. Hardesty has said the team receives about $7 million in funding. The bureau budgeted $7.4 million for the 39-member team in fiscal year 2018-2019. The bulk of that amount, $6.7 million, covers payroll, according to the bureau. While 39 officers are assigned to the team on a full-time basis, another 13 are assigned to other assignments but sometimes detached to assist the team, according to the bureau. Commissioner Nick Fish isnt interested in disbanding the team, said Sonia Schmanski, his chief of staff. Commissioner Chloe Eudaly is open to the question, said Marshall Runkel, her chief of staff, but added that its unlikely enough time exists to debate the idea before the budget must be approved. Mayor Ted Wheeler, who oversees the Police Bureau, also opposes the proposal, said his spokeswoman, Eileen Park. One big reason they transitioned to this new model is because it's reducing gun violence all across the city because of the change in their investigative approach, she said. Commissioner Amanda Fritzs chief of staff didnt return an email seeking comment. The mayor has proposed $237.6 million for the Police Bureau in fiscal 2019-2020. It includes a net increase of $381,119 in general fund spending. The plan calls for using $2 million in savings from at least 75 officer vacancies toward anticipated overtime costs and other expenses. Oregonian Staff Writer Gordon R. Friedman contributed to this story. -- Maxine Bernstein Email at mbernstein@oregonian.com Follow on Twitter @maxoregonian Visit subscription.oregonlive.com/newsletters to get Oregonian/OregonLive journalism delivered to your email inbox. A New York man was arrested in Tigard after allegedly stealing more than $33,000 worth of merchandise from Home Depot stores around Oregon and Washington, including one in Tigard. Jose Modesto Adon Cano was arrested by Tigard police on Monday and is lodged in the Washington County Jail on one charge of first-degree aggravated theft. Adon Cano, 25, is suspected of using forged barcodes to purchase items for prices much lower than the listed value, police say. Stephanie Kouremetis, Tigard polices community engagement program coordinator, said police are still investigating, but so far they believe Adon Cano rented a car in Seattle and drove down Interstate 5, stopping at Home Depots along the way. All that were aware of is Home Depots, and he seems to be stealing similar items, she said. Kouremetis said he has stolen circuit breakers and duplex outlets. According to Tigard police, Home Depot employees at the Sequoia Parkway store on May 2 watched Adon Cano put circuit breakers and outlets into his shopping cart, and then put forged barcodes with lower prices onto the items. Police say employees then saw Adan Cano put the items into his rental car and come back into the store to buy more items. Adan Cano spent about $75 that day on close to $1,800 worth of merchandise, officials say. Tigard police arrested him at that time, but he bailed himself out of jail. The next day, officers got a search warrant to such Adan Canos vehicle, and they found more than $33,000 worth of merchandise with forged bar codes, police say. Tigard police arrested Adan Cano again Monday. Along with the aggravated theft charge, he is being held for a federal probation violation, for alleged unlawful skimming of a credit card in another state. Kouremetis said that when police searched Adan Canos vehicle, they found a label maker which they think he had been using to make the forged barcodes. Officers are still investigating the incident and think there may be more stolen merchandise, police said. Jayati Ramakrishnan; 503-221-4320; jramakrishnan@oregonian.com; @JRamakrishnanOR Visit subscription.oregonlive.com/newsletters to get Oregonian/OregonLive journalism delivered to your email inbox. HIGHLANDS RANCH, Colo. The lone fatality in the Colorado high school shooting was Kendrick Castillo, a friendly 18-year-old who leaped from his desk in a literature class and charged the two attackers, sacrificing his life to buy classmates time to escape. Another 18-year-old preparing to enter the Marines also tackled the shooters. And an armed security guard then confronted and detained one of the shooters. Authorities said these acts of bravery helped minimize the bloodshed from the attack, which also wounded eight people. "We're going to hear about very heroic things that have taken place at the school," Douglas County Sheriff Tony Spurlock said Wednesday. The attackers were identified by law enforcement officials as 18-year-old Devon Erickson and a younger student who is a juvenile and was not named. They allegedly walked into the STEM School Highlands Ranch through an entrance without metal detectors and opened fire in two classrooms. Because the attack happened only miles from Columbine and just weeks after the shooting's 20th anniversary, questions quickly arose about whether it was inspired by the 1999 massacre. But investigators offered no immediate motive. Student Nui Giasolli told NBC's "Today" show that she was in her British literature class when Erickson came in late and pulled out a gun. Castillo lunged at the gunman, who shot the teen. Castillo's swift action gave the rest of the class time to get underneath their desks and then run across the room to escape, Giasolli said. A member of the school's robotics club and a relentless tinkerer, Castillo had an infectious smile and gentle sense of humor, according to friends. He worked part-time at a local manufacturing company that had offered him a job after an internship because he was such a standout employee. "To find he went down as a hero, I'm not surprised. That's exactly who Kendrick was," said Rachel Short, president of the company, Baccara. Cecilia Bedard, 19, had known Castillo since elementary school and said he was always friendly, modest and excited to help people. He made a point of always joining his father at Knights of Columbus fundraisers and bingo nights. "He was amazing," Bedard said. "He was honestly the sweetest kid I ever met. Never said a mean joke." Brendan Bialy, also 18 and a senior who was enrolled in a delayed-entry program for the Marines, charged the shooters as well, helping fight them off, according to authorities and witnesses. "His decisive actions resulted in the safety and protection of his teachers and fellow classmates," Marine Capt. Michael Maggiti said. Then, as the shooters moved through the 1,800-student campus, an armed security guard detained one of them, Spurlock said. The guard was employed by Boss High Level Protection, a company started by a former SWAT team leader who responded to the Columbine shooting. The owner, Grant Whitus, told The Associated Press the security guard is a former Marine who ran to the area of the shootings and confronted one of the armed students in a hallway. The guard drew his weapon and apprehended the person, Whitus said. "He doesn't even realize how many lives he saved by stopping a school shooting," Whitus said. Both suspects were students at the school, and they were not previously known to authorities, Spurlock said. A message left at a phone number listed for Erickson's home was not immediately returned. He was scheduled to make an initial court appearance later Wednesday. Josh Dutton, 18, said he was close friends with Erickson in middle school but had not seen him for four years while attending a different high school. On Sunday, he spotted Erickson at a local light rail station and said he was shocked at how much his friend had changed. Erickson wore all black and was significantly thinner and did not seem interested in talking. "He said he'd just turned 18 and he owned rifles," Dutton said. The shooting took place exactly a week after a gunman killed two students and wounded four at the University of North Carolina-Charlotte. It also came nearly three weeks after neighboring Littleton marked the anniversary of the Columbine attack that killed 13 people. The two schools are separated by about 7 miles (11 kilometers) in adjacent communities south of Denver. Douglas County District Attorney George Brauchler said the community remains resilient in the face of multiple shootings, including Columbine, the 2012 theater shooting in the Denver suburb of Aurora and the 2013 shooting at Arapahoe High School. The attacks are "aberrant acts" although they might seem otherwise to the rest of the world, he said. Who we are is a kind, compassionate, caring people, and this does not define us. It wont today and it wont tomorrow, he said. Though it may be a consistent ratings champ, CBS has seen more than its share of controversies in recent months, most having to do with high-profile executives and stars being accused of sexual misconduct. In that context, TV-watchers have been especially curious to see what shows CBS would keep, and which ones would be ditched, in this period leading up to the network presenting its finalized 2019-2020 schedule to advertisers at the upfronts. Though hits such as NCIS have already been renewed, it wasnt certain what would happen to Bull, the legal drama starring former NCIS favorite Michael Weatherly. But today, CBS announced that six more drama series -- including Bull -- have been renewed, along with news programs 48 Hours and 60 Minutes (that last renewal was no surprise to anyone). For the 2019-2020 season, CBS announced that, in addition to shows already renewed, the network has ordered additional seasons of SEAL Team," S.W.A.T., Madam Secretary, Bull," Hawaii Five-0 and MacGyver. Though it wasnt a sure thing that all those shows would get another season, the news of Bull is especially noteworthy, because of offscreen issues surrounding the series. As the Wrap and other industry sources reported, the shows future was clouded by the revelation that in January of 2018, the network agreed to pay actress Eliza Dushku a $9.5 million settlement after Dushku alleged Weatherly had sexually harassed her and engaged in other misconduct. The New York Times originally reported the case, in which Dushku, who had been hired to appear on Bull, alleged that Weatherly made inappropriate comments about her appearance, along with jokes about rape, and engaging in a threesome. Dushkus claim was that she was written out of the show because she spoke up about Weatherlys conduct. Weatherly said, in a statement to the Times, that he was mortified to have offended Dushku, and immediately apologized. He added that after further reflection, he understood that his comments were both not funny and not appropriate, and that he regretted the pain this caused Eliza. After mediation, the network reached the settlement agreement with Dushku. Today, Deadline reports that Steven Spielbergs Amblin Television production company, and executives with the company, which had been executive producers of Bull for its first three seasons, are ending involvement in the show, in the wake of the sexual harassment allegations against star Michael Weatherly, as Nellie Andreeva writes. Andreeva includes a statement given to Deadline from a representative for the company, which reads: Steven Spielberg, Amblin Television, Darryl Frank and Justin Falvey are no longer attached to Bull." The report about Bull and Dushkus settlement was just one of several stories that have emerged about a pattern of inappropriate behavior and sexual harassment within CBS. The networks CEO, Leslie Moonves, was forced out following a network investigation into allegations against the executive made by several women. The flagship news program 60 Minutes also came under fire as investigators found now-fired executive producer Jeff Fager had engaged in certain acts of sexual misconduct (though Fager had denied the allegations, as AdWeek reported). Charlie Rose, the cohost of CBS This Morning and a 60 Minutes correspondent, was also fired in 2017 after several women accused him of sexual misconduct. CBS has, in addition to the shows mentioned above, renewed Young Sheldon, Mom, Criminal Minds, NCIS: Los Angeles, NCIS: New Orleans, Blue Bloods, FBI, God Friended Me, The Neighborhood and Magnum P.I. for next season. -- Kristi Turnquist kturnquist@oregonian.com 503-221-8227 @Kristiturnquist Visit subscription.oregonlive.com/newsletters to get Oregonian/OregonLive journalism delivered to your email inbox. DEAR ABBY: I found out a few years ago that the first love of my life, my college sweetheart, was murdered by her husband in 1999. At the time, I was married. My wife died three years ago, and I now live with a significant other. I never got closure. Now that I know about my girlfriends brutal death, I have thought about contacting her family, who live in another state. Would it be all right to do that, or am I just reliving my past and need to move on? I am torn about what to do. What do you suggest? -- CONFLICTED IN NEW MEXICO DEAR CONFLICTED: Write her parents a letter and tell them you only recently heard about your former girlfriends death. And when you do, express to them that she will always live in your heart, and share a pleasant memory of her with them. Im sure they will be appreciative. DEAR ABBY: My mom has never been what you would call a housekeeper. Dad did all the shopping, cooking and cleaning. As a child, I remember our house always being a mess. Mom worked, and I dont know why she never felt like she needed to clean up after herself. My dad would straighten up after her, and there were often arguments about it. Fast forward. Dad passed away three years ago, and my mom hasnt changed. She leaves things all over the house like she did before -- dishes, bowls, soda cans, shoes. The first year, I would go over and clean only to return a couple of days later and find the place a mess again. She wont let cleaning people in because she doesnt like the smell of the cleaning products. I feel like a bad daughter because at this point, I wont go over to her house anymore. I cannot spend time there. If this were new behavior, I would be concerned, but its been this way as long as I can remember. She seems to not care that the place is a mess all the time. I feel bad for not helping her anymore. My daughter wont visit her either. What do I do? -- MIFFED ABOUT THE MESS IN VIRGINIA DEAR MIFFED: Dont feel guilty. Because your mother is the way she is and always has been like this, take her out or to your home when you want to visit with her. DEAR ABBY: Its time someone publicized this. Chewing ice in your tea, coffee or soft drink is as rude as eating your food or cracking your gum with your mouth open. As I write this, I am sitting in a nice neighborhood coffee shop. The man next to me ordered an iced beverage, which he has been chomping through for the last 10 minutes. This is rude under any conditions, but magnified by the fact that some of us are going over work matters and trying to enjoy a coffee and muffin break. Moreover, it is not good for teeth. Even if the ice crunching habit were benign with regard to health, its inconsiderate of those in earshot. -- BREAKING THE ICE DEAR BREAKING: Has it occurred to you and your co-workers to move to another table if the crunching annoys you? If it hasnt, I recommend it. Dear Abby is written by Abigail Van Buren, also known as Jeanne Phillips, and was founded by her mother, Pauline Phillips. Contact Dear Abby at www.DearAbby.com or P.O. Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069. A police officer walked his beat with a bullet stuck in each ear. All around him little girls cried hysterically and screamed. The cop ignored them. So it went at Portlands Memorial Coliseum on Sunday, Aug. 22, 1965, when the Beatles performed two shows at the venue. The Oregonians overnight recap of the experience started as follows: eeeeeeeeeeeeEEEEEEEEEE!... The legendary British pop group broke up almost 50 years ago, and two of its four members are no longer with us. Yet Beatlemania lives on. Undeniable evidence of this will be on display in Portland on Friday, when Ladies and Gentlemen ... The Beatles! lands at the Oregon Historical Society. Chuck Gunderson, one of the four Beatles super-collectors behind Ladies and Gentlemen..., says long waits to get into the exhibit have been common at its stops around the U.S. and Japan. The Fab Four showcase is going to be packed with a lot of good stuff, including one-of-a-kind pieces, Gunderson says. Were expecting a crowd. One item that always proves popular is a soiled piece of paper. Bearing the logo of the Shoreham Hotel in Washington, D.C., its creased and smudged, the edges eaten away. The looping cursive handwriting on the page captures the plan for the night: Beethoven, it reads. Then: From me to you. I saw her standing there. This Boy. The litany continues, finally ending with what almost looks like a signature: Long Tall Sally. Its the Beatles set list for their Feb. 11, 1964, concert at Washington Coliseum, handwritten by John Lennon. The artifact is a direct link to the bands first U.S. concert, to that moment when John, Paul, George and Ringo, fresh off their Ed Sullivan Show success, bounded on stage in their fitted suits, the cheers and screams from thousands of fans rising to a deafening level. When the group came on stage, Paul McCartney unfolded the set list and placed it on an amplifier. After the concert, a police officer picked up the scrap of paper and handed it to a teen girl who was milling about, trying to delay her return to the real world. She had no idea what she had, Gunderson says. She thought another fan had written down the songs [as they were played]. A year-and-a-half after that concert in D.C., the Beatles made it to Portland -- but just barely. One of the engines of their chartered plane caught fire as the aircraft approached the Rose City. When Lennon looked out the window and saw flames lashing the wing, writes Gunderson in Some Fun Tonight: The Backstage Story of How the Beatles Rocked America, the musician ran to the exit door and grabbed the handle with both hands, ready to pull the door open at 22,000 feet -- until [road manager] Mal Evans stopped him. Thanks to Evans and the pilots, of course the plane landed safely, smoke billowing behind it. The band bounded into a limo, smiling and waving as if they hadnt been convinced just minutes before that the end was nigh. They were whisked straight to Memorial Coliseum. The Beatles banged through two shows during their day in the city, a necessity seeing as Portlands premier stadium was a small venue for the Liverpudlians. They gave a press conference backstage between the afternoon and evening performances. One reporter asked them what they thought about a pamphlet circulating outside the stadium that described the Beatles as communists. Ive got to see that, McCartney said. Imagine us communists. Also between the shows, the Beatles met the Beach Boys for the first time. The Los Angeles-based group made the trip up to Portland specifically to meet their rivals. From "Ladies and Gentlemen ... The Beatles!" Along with a wide range of memorabilia and historical items, Ladies and Gentlemen... includes various video and audio features, thanks to the exhibits affiliation with the Grammy Museum. And for its Oregon stop, it will have a small exhibit within the exhibit thats devoted to the Beatles Portland appearance. Here you can check out, for example, a Memorial Coliseum press pass for the concerts and unused tickets to the shows. (Yes, we said unused tickets. Who skipped a Beatles concert at the height of Beatlemania? Cars sometimes didnt start, people got sick, Gunderson points out. One woman told me that she bought tickets for $3.50 each and her mom told her, Youre not going to see those damn Beatles. The girl ended up sticking the tickets in her Bible, where they stayed for years.) The contract for the Memorial Coliseum performances is also well worth examining, Gunderson says. It includes a line, added for the tours southern swing, that made clear the Beatles would not play before a segregated audience. From "Ladies and Gentlemen ... The Beatles!" The contracts rider was very basic, he adds. Youll find none of the outlandish demands we associate with rock stars. The local concerts producers were required to provide the Beatles backstage room with clean towels, two cases of soda, four cots and a TV. The soda and cots did the trick. By many accounts, the Fab Four gave two of their better live performances in Portland. Jack Berry, the drama editor at The Oregonian at the time, noted that, unlike most of the Beatles appearances in this country, the music could occasionally be heard. He added that this didnt seem to matter to the older members of the audience: A good many fans were accompanied by their parents, who sat stonily while the kids screamed and waved little wounded flipper dancing gestures. -- Douglas Perry Ladies and Gentlemen ... The Beatles!: May 10-Nov. 12, 2019 Oregon Historical Society, 1200 S.W. Park Ave., Portland, OR 97205 Visit subscription.oregonlive.com/newsletters to get Oregonian/OregonLive journalism delivered to your email inbox. Oregon is the first state in the country to allow dentists to administer vaccines to patients. In a year marked with heated debate about the states involvement in boosting vaccination rates, the bill was quietly passed and signed into law with little fanfare. But it sets a new precedent for the role dentistry plays in the health care system. Two other states have laws that allow dentists to give flu shots to adults, but in Oregon, dentists will soon be able to give out any vaccine available at a primary care doctors office. Most people likely wont get their measles, polio and tetanus shots from the dentist, but Oregon Health & Science University School of Dentistry Dean Phillip Marucha said that they might want vaccines relevant to oral health. A large percentage of new oral cancer diagnoses are linked to HPV, a sexually transmitted infection that can also cause cervical cancer and genital warts. But the traditional practice of dentistry doesnt allow for easy conversations about prevention. Marucha said that this law, which he helped draft, will make that conversation easier. A dentist could educate patients about the value of the HPV vaccine and then administer it onsite. Its pretty exciting to me, because it provides another opportunity to fill a care gap in the state of Oregon, Marucha said. OHSU dentistry students will all learn how to administer vaccines before graduation starting next year. As the states only dentistry school, OHSU will also begin to hold classes for practicing dentists who want to opt in. Marucha is part of a push to make oral health more aligned with the rest of the health care system. As stand-alone dentistry practices start to vanish, as they have in Oregon, community health care centers and systems like Kaiser that place dentists offices next to pharmacies and general doctors have begun that transition. The mouth is part of the rest of the body, so we should be working together on this, Marucha said. However, there are obstacles. Many private insurers carve dental insurance out separate from medical insurance. That will be a challenge for the state agencies tasked with implementing the law. Most medical insurances provides some coverage for vaccinations, but dental insurance doesnt, since its never been an issue before. Marucha hopes that as the Oregon boards of dentistry and pharmacy, the Oregon Health Authority and the Oregon Dental Association work on figuring out what kind of training and rules go along with the new law, they can also help pressure insurance companies to consider coverage gaps. The law comes at the end of the largest measles outbreak in the Pacific Northwest since the disease was declared eliminated from the U.S. in 2000. It sailed through the Oregon Legislature while a bill that would eliminate the main exemptions to vaccinations for school-age children has been caught up in hearings that lasted hours and inspired rallies filled with hundreds of opponents. The dentistry bill, though, earned support from some lawmakers who oppose the loophole-eliminating bill. It also was supported by a diverse range of medical groups. Marucha worked in Illinois, one of the states that allows dentists to give flu vaccines to adults. That law was met with pushback from other medical experts who prefer certain treatments to remain siloed. Theyre still trapped in the old versions of what a particular kind of healthcare provider should and shouldn't do, Marucha said. But even outside the Legislature, Marucha said Oregons dental and general healthcare communities are starting to work together more. Dental students are learning to screen patients for diabetes and other illnesses that can affect oral health. Likewise, physician assistants are learning from the dental community how to conduct oral exams, since gum disease can affect heart health, among other side effects. Oregon is very progressive in its healthcare system and making sure that access to care is more important than turf, Marucha said. UPDATED 6:30 P.M.: Washington County Circuit Judge Beth Roberts Thursday declined to hold defense attorney Rich Wolf in contempt or place a gag order on him for talking to the press about his judicial ethics complaint over Bracken McKeys campaign donation to Judge Charles Bailey. *** A lawyer for an aggravated murder defendant wasnt sure why a Washington County judge seemed to be ruling against him -- three times making decisions that he thought favored the prosecution during a hearing last fall. What defense attorney Rich Wolf discovered later led him to write a complaint to the states judicial ethics commission. He learned that less than a month before, the prosecutor assigned to the case -- Bracken McKey -- had given a $500 donation to Circuit Judge Charles Baileys re-election campaign. Years earlier, McKey also had worked as Baileys campaign manager. Wolf wondered how Oregons judicial rules of conduct could allow what seemed to him to be a potential conflict of interest. Twice Wolf complained to the states Commission on Judicial Fitness and Disability and twice the commission considered his complaint but decided not to investigate further, the latest rejection coming last month. McKey, who holds the position of chief deputy district attorney in his office, declined to comment. Bailey acknowledged to The Oregonian/OregonLive that he knew of the donation but said he didnt show favoritism to McKey because of it. There was nothing to any allegations of any impropriety, and in the end, to make sure it was clear ... I recused myself from the case, said Bailey, who removed himself six months after Wolf first objected. Wolf ran up against a common practice in judicial elections in Oregon and other states. Lawyers can and often do donate to a judges campaign only to later argue cases before the judge. The system sets up an honor system that assumes such donations wont unduly influence a judge. Few rules in Oregon specifically address the issue within the legal community. While the practice has wide acceptance, some judges and others acknowledge the uncomfortable optics. An analysis of 2018 campaign contribution records by The Oregonian/OregonLive shows that McKeys donation was an outlier. The vast majority of donations in judicial elections came from private lawyers, not prosecutors, the analysis found. Criminal defense attorney Rich Wolf filed a judicial conduct complaint against Washington County Circuit Judge Charles Bailey. The state Judicial Fitness Commission reviewed his complaint, but declined to investigate further. (Randy L. Rasmussen/The Oregonian/2016) In his complaint, Wolf wrote that state judicial rules seem to outlaw the practice. They say: A judge shall not accept gifts, loans, bequests, benefits, or other things of value ... if the donor is a party, lawyer, or other person whose interests have come or are likely to come before the judge. Its unclear where the states Judicial Fitness Commission, which investigates complaints against judges, draws the line. Executive Director Susan Isaacs declined to answer questions about the system. Commission meetings also arent public, so its not known what members considered in reviewing the $500 donation to Baileys campaign. McKeys contribution represented about 10% of the total that Baileys campaign raised in cash contributions from donors other than the judge himself. The professional associations for Oregons district attorneys, criminal defense lawyers and civil lawyers have no rules prohibiting lawyers from making donations to judges campaigns. The same holds true for the Oregon State Bar -- which licenses more than 12,000 lawyers in the state -- although the bar does have an ethics rule forbidding lawyers from trying to influence judges through illegal means. Mick Gillette, a former Oregon Supreme Court justice, said he doesnt believe the current system breaks judicial conduct rules because judges dont directly accept campaign donations a committee accepts donations for them. In the half-dozen times he ran for election, Gillette directed his campaign committee workers not to tell him who donated and he never looked up that information, he said. While hefty donations can be problematic and there are examples of that nationwide, Gillette said, hes never run across a case of donation that influenced a judge in Oregon in his 52 years of practicing law. For $300 or $500? Gillette said. Ive known too many judges that are honest. It just doesnt worry me much. *** Not all states elect their judges, but in those that do, like Oregon, they grapple with the same vexing question of how to fund judicial campaigns. Candidates, even incumbents, need money to run. And in a time when many members of the general public struggle to name a single judge let alone anything about their job performance -- lawyers are judges most willing donors. If youre going to say, Were going to elect judges, youve got to let them get money and spend it, said Lucian Pera, a lawyer who tracks judicial and legal ethics nationally at the Memphis law firm of Adams and Reese. But with so many high-stakes cases resting in the hands of judges, the practice has the potential for threatening a fundamental canon of the job: Maintaining the appearance of impartiality and actually remaining impartial. Pera said states build safeguards into their systems: For one, transparency. In Oregon, anyone can go online and scroll through who gave and how much to each judges campaign. To learn more about the practice in Oregon, The Oregonian/OregonLive looked at every candidate in every Circuit Court judicial race that raised money in Oregon in the 2018 election -- 46 incumbents and challengers in all, according to the Secretary of States online database. By far the biggest supporters of judicial candidates were other lawyers. More than 150 gave to the campaigns. Almost all of them were criminal defense or civil litigators. Washington County Deputy District Attorney Bracken McKey is pictured here in 2016. (Beth Nakamura/The Oregonian/File photo) McKey was one of four prosecutors in the state to give money to the campaign of an incumbent Circuit Court judge or a candidate, according to the online database. He was one of only two prosecutors who gave to a judge or candidate in the same jurisdiction. The other one was Josephine County District Attorney Ryan Mulkins, who donated $300 to the unsuccessful campaign of one of his deputy prosecutors. In Multnomah County, District Attorney Rod Underhill indirectly made a political contribution to a judge outside his jurisdiction from his re-election committee to the re-election campaign of Clackamas County Circuit Judge Ulanda Watkins. She is one of the few African American judges in the state. But neither Underhill nor any of his deputy district attorneys appear before Watkins because theyre in a different county. Underhills office doesnt outright bar its prosecutors from donating to judicial campaigns within Multnomah County, but a spokesman said supervisors know of none that have. I think that could raise some ethical questions, and thats something we definitely want to steer clear of, said spokesman Brent Weisberg. More than 75 lawyers gave to the campaign of Multnomah County Circuit Judge Benjamin Souede, who was under heavy fire from his opponent for his appointment by the governor after she skipped the usual application process because she knew Souede from his work as her offices general counsel. Donors included some highly recognized names in the legal community: criminal and civil attorneys Stephen Houze, Janet Hoffman, Greg Kafoury, Mark McDougal and Kevin Sali. Sali, a Portland criminal defense lawyer, said raising money for election campaigns is a necessary part of American democracy. He agrees that it may look odd for lawyers to give to judicial campaigns, but he said lawyers are in a position to know which candidates are best suited for the job. Sali gave $250 to Souedes campaign but said he wasnt trying to curry favor. I wouldnt have contributed to Judge Souedes campaign if I thought he could be swayed by that, Sali said. I want us to have good judges on our benches. Sali appears in Souedes courtroom infrequently. The last time he remembers was more than a year ago, months before he made the donation. Retired Multnomah County Circuit Judge Edward Jones said with the exception of his first election to office, he didnt raise money for re-election campaigns because no one had ever run against him in his more than 18 years as a judge. But he doesnt like the current system. Its not really OK, Jones said. We ought to have another way of doing this. But what is that way? Jones wonders if public financing of judicial campaigns is the solution. But the judges would go nuts, saying, Youre going to pay someone to run against us every six years? Jones quipped. I dont think thats going to be popular. Public financing is rare, with two states New Mexico and West Virginia offering it for some judicial races, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures. In Oregon, theres no sweeping effort to establish such a fund. In Oregon, voters elect their state court judges. (Mark Graves/The Oregonian/File photo) *** In the past couple decades nationwide, ethics questions have increasingly surrounded lawyers or special interest groups contributing to the campaigns of judges. A 2006 Los Angeles Times investigation found that in Nevada, even judges who ran unopposed had campaign cash flowing in from lawyers, casinos or other parties that appeared in their courtrooms, often within days of decisions in the contributor's case. The U.S. Supreme Court weighed in on the issue in a landmark 2009 case out of West Virginia. A jury had ruled that the A.T. Massey Coal Co. must pay a mining company $50 million. But before the case was appealed to the West Virginia Supreme Court, the coal company pumped $3 million into an ultimately successful campaign to unseat a justice. On appeal, the new justice cast the deciding vote undoing the jurys verdict. The Supreme Court found that the new justice should have recused himself because even though the campaign contributions werent a bribe, the justice would nevertheless feel a debt of gratitude to Masseys CEO for his extraordinary efforts to get him elected. A USA Today/Gallup poll that same year found that 90 percent of survey respondents thought judges should remove themselves from cases involving people or groups who gave to their election campaigns. A 2016 study of Supreme Court justices in North Carolina found that justices ruled in favor of plaintiffs 80 percent of the time when plaintiffs attorneys donated to their campaigns, in amounts as little as $100. After the state set up a system that allowed justices to boost their re-election campaigns with public grant money, the likelihood justices sided with those same lawyers who gave plummeted to just 20 percent of the time. *** In Washington County, McKey and Wolf represent opposite sides in the aggravated murder retrial of Billy Lee Oatney. Oatney is accused of killing a woman after she hired him to make her wedding jewelry in 1996. Bailey -- the countys presiding judge who this week is stepping down from the presiding position amid a swirl of controversy about his bullish courtroom demeanor -- held a hearing in the case to decide which judge to assign the case for trial. But according to a court memo Wolf later wrote, Wolf thought the judge was purposely trying to assign the case to judges that Wolfs client didnt want. Bailey even assigned the case to himself, before Wolf objected. Oregon law allows such objections. Then Wolf found the link between Bailey and McKey. He filed a complaint with the state Judicial Fitness Commission, saying he thought it was inappropriate for Bailey to make decisions in a case when McKey had bolstered Baileys campaign with cash. Four months later, the commission responded that it had reviewed his complaint but wouldnt investigate further because it had insufficient evidence that the judge broke an ethical rule. Wolf asked the commission to reconsider, this time stressing the precise language of the ethics rule. The commission said it would take another look, but then Wolf received a letter last month declining to investigate further, without offering specifics. Wolf fell under fire from McKey for talking publicly about his judicial conduct complaint. McKey declined to talk to The Oregonian/OregonLive about his donation or his past work as the judges campaign manager and also didnt want Wolf talking about it. McKey had asked a different Washington County judge -- Beth Roberts -- to find Wolf in contempt for sharing information about his judicial ethics complaint after The Oregonian/OregonLive contacted Wolf. McKey also asked Roberts to put a gag order on Wolf, restricting him from talking to the press about it. Its unprofessional. Its inappropriate, McKey said during a hearing, arguing that Wolf violated an Oregon State Bar rule that says lawyers arent supposed to talk publicly in a way that is highly likely to influence a criminal case. Wolf, however, argued that he wasnt talking about the criminal case, but was trying to bring to light another issue that he feels is of public concern. I think its my First Amendment right in order to do so, he said. Thursday, Roberts denied McKeys requests to find Wolf in contempt or place a gag order on him. -- Aimee Green agreen@oregonian.com o_aimee Visit subscription.oregonlive.com/newsletters to get Oregonian/OregonLive journalism delivered to your email inbox. Rebekah Katherine Brewis was indicted Tuesday by a grand jury in Multnomah County on three counts of first degree aggravated theft from the Womens March on Portland and two counts of felony computer crime. Each of the three theft counts is for money of the total value of $10,000 or more, the property of Womens March on Portland, according to court documents. Brewis was one of the organizers of the original Portland Womens March, which drew between 70,000 and 100,000 to downtown Portland to protest the inauguration of President Donald Trump in January 2017. But in late February of that year, organizers became embroiled in a dispute over missing t-shirt sales and donation money. According to a Facebook post at the time from the lead organizer of the event Margaret Jacobsen, Brewis agreed to have her organization, PDX Trans Pride, act as fiscal sponsor of the event so the Womens March could collect tax-deductible donations and raise money to pay for costs associated with the 2017 march. However, according to Jacobsen, there was no written contract regarding the fiscal sponsorship. An investigation by The Oregonian/OregonLive showed that PDX Trans Pride was not at the time a 501c3 non-profit with the ability to take tax deductible donations at all. In the Facebook post, Jacobsen wrote that after the event, PDX Trans Pride refused to account for the funds, which Jacobsen believed to be at least $22,000 from t-shirt sales and an unknown amount in direct donations. In a phone message left with The Oregonian/OregonLive at the time, Brewis said, The allegations are absolutely unfounded. The Oregon Department of Justice referred the case to its criminal justice division in January of 2018. Majority Leader Mitch McConnell took to the U.S. Senate floor this week to declare that, with the release of the redacted version of Special Counsel Robert Muellers report, its time to finally end this Groundhog Day spectacle of investigations into President Donald Trumps conduct and move forward for the American people. The American people agree with the Republican senator: its time to move on. But its not because they believe President Trump is an innocent man whos been unfairly harassed, in McConnells words, by the outrage industrial complex. A live-phone survey by the respected independent Quinnipiac University Poll found that American voters say 57-28 percent that Donald Trump committed crimes before he became president. Fifty-four percent of the 1,044 Americans surveyed also said the president attempted to derail or obstruct the investigation into the Russian interference in the 2016 election. "No, the Mueller Report did not clear President Trump, American voters say, Quinnipiac University Poll assistant director Tim Malloy said. Yes, the president tried to thwart the investigation. At the same time, however, a large majority of those polled 66 percent say the U.S. House of Representatives should not undertake impeachment proceedings against the president. The resounding no from voters says Americans want to move on, Malloy said. The reasons behind this no-impeachment majority were not addressed in the poll. Perhaps these Americans fear tumult, recriminations and a Trumpian surge of support if the Democratic-led House impeaches the Republican president, Washington Post columnist Jennifer Rubin wrote. Voters (especially the majority who say theyll never vote for him), she added, in essence might be telling us that Democrats should just go out and beat him in 2020. Former FBI Director James Comey, whose firing by Trump led to the special-counsel investigation, said in March that he hopes Trump is still the sitting president come Election Day next year. Because if Mr. Trump were removed from office by Congress, a significant portion of this country would see this as a coup, he wrote. The Quinnipiac University Poll, released May 2, puts Trumps approval rating at 41 percent. The poll has a +/- 3.5-percentage-point margin of error. Read its questions and answers and check out its methodology. -- Douglas Perry SALEM A legislative hearing on a largely non-controversial bill to require Holocaust education in Oregon schools took a sharp turn on Wednesday after several people downplayed or denied the Holocaust in their testimony against the measure. Senate Bill 664 easily passed the Senate in March. The hearing in the House Education Committee was mostly a formality, a necessary step in the legislative process after which the bill would be sent to a vote on the House floor. But after some 30 minutes of testimony from supporters -- including a husband and wife who had survived the Holocaust as children -- the tenor of the hearing changed dramatically. Marlayne Madison called the Holocaust a tool of division to be exploited. We all know how history evolves, said Marvin Sandnes. Thats a common argument from those who argue that new information shows the Holocaust either did not happen or that far fewer Jewish people died than the six million who are widely believed to have perished in Nazi concentration camps. Sandnes has frequently -- but never successfully -- run for legislative and congressional seats. Hes also known for pushing 9/11 conspiracy theories in public displays at the state capitol. Another person testifying against the bill, Mark DeCoursey of Salem, accused lawmakers of cherry-picking the lessons from the past to satisfy one political group or one small religious group. The debate left some on the committee visibly shaken, and its chair, Rep. Margaret Doherty, D-Tigard, called a recess for members to regroup. Doherty let everyone who signed up to testify against the measure have their say, with some conditions. Representative Margaret Doherty (D) at the Oregon State Capitol in Salem. Beth Nakamura/Staff Im going to ask you not to read your (written) testimony, she said to Thomas Madison of Salem, who had submitted his comments in writing before the hearing. In it, Madison claimed that a relatively small number of Jews died in concentration camps, mostly from disease and starvation. Some of the things in the testimony are quite offensive to me personally, said Doherty. Were going to give you the opportunity to speak, but I want to have you just very, very briefly summarize what your testimony is. That did not sit well with Madison. His voice rising, he said he should be allowed to counter what he called the exaggerations of those who feel schoolchildren should be taught about the Nazi genocide. Im offended by it, said Madison. This is a public testimony, a place where people come to discuss issues left and right. And you have stopped me from doing so. Yes, I have, responded Doherty, calmly. With testimony over, committee members discussed the hearing before casting their votes. Rep. Courtney Neron, D-Wilsonville, said she first learned about the Holocaust in-depth as a teenager, when she visited the Dachau concentration camp. Nothing has made me want to take this vote more than some of the testimonies we have heard today, she said. I am so glad we are supporting this kind of education because we have to get the message out and the facts straight. The committee voted 9-0 to send Senate Bill 664 to the House floor. Afterwards, Doherty reflected on the hearing she had just chaired. Im not a person that likes to promote hate and untruths, she said. You give people the opportunity to speak, up to a point. And then you tell them their testimony is over. Democratic lawmakers this week unveiled whats close to the final version of a proposed carbon cap and trade policy, the expansive and complex legislation that would put Oregon at the forefront of U.S. efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change. More than a decade in the making, lawmakers have made myriad changes to the policy this year, including big concessions designed to reduce costs of the policy for electric utilities, industrial companies and low-income households who could be hurt by higher energy prices. I think were pretty much there now, said Sen. Michael Dembrow, D-Portland, co-chair of the Joint Committee on Carbon Reduction. There may be a few tweaks. Dembrow added that hes waiting on fiscal and revenue analyses, and expects the bill will likely move out of committee next week. He expects a full Senate vote by the end of the month. That remains to be seen. Debate over the carbon policy has been lost in the sound and fury over new corporate taxes and Republican lawmakers walkout to deny Democrats the quorum they need to pass that bill. But the carbon bill is a huge, complicated and far-reaching piece of legislation that is likely to grab center stage in the next few weeks. Republicans included it on a hit list of bills they want killed before theyll come back to the Legislature. Democratic leaders say its still one of their top priorities. The amendments unveiled Monday include another targeted set of concessions, as well as a number of technical fixes to the policy and the minutiae of its implementation. Environmental advocates and other backers applauded the changes and are anxious to get on with the voting. But some businesses say they still arent satisfied. The amendments do little to address the concerns raised during the hearings held around the state, said Preston Mann, spokesman for a business coalition calling itself the Partnership for Oregon Communities. The token rebates included in the amendment will do little to offset the significant financial burden every Oregonian will face under the program, especially considering the programs imperceptible environmental benefits. To recap the basics, the legislation would set an overall cap on greenhouse gas emissions that would decline over time, with the goal of reducing them 45 percent below 1990 levels by 2035 and 80 percent below 1990 levels by 2050. The states largest emitters of greenhouse gases including electric utilities, transportation fuel providers and industrial companies - would be required to purchase allowances to cover their greenhouse gas emissions each year. As the state gradually curtailed the allowance supply, they would get more expensive and incentivize emissions reductions. The latest amendments include: New concession for natural gas utilities: Earlier versions of House Bill 2020 had included free emissions allowances for gas utilities intended to offset any rate impacts on low-income residential customers. Utilities such as NW Natural complained that would still leave other residential, commercial and industrial customers exposed to big rate increases. Under the amended bill, gas utilities would receive an additional consignment of free allowances -- equal to another 60 percent of their emissions. But instead of using those for compliance purposes, they would be required to sell them in the annual state auction, and invest the proceeds to bolster energy efficiency and transition to more renewable natural gas projects. At least 25 percent of those proceeds would be used for customer bill credits. The gas companies would still be responsible for buying allowances to cover about 85 percent of their emissions in the annual state auction, a compromise environmental groups say they can live with. In a perfect word we wouldnt need this consignment, but based on where the utilities were lobbying from, its a pretty good outcome, said Brad Reed, a spokesman for Renew Oregon. The consigned allowances are not the solution the gas companies lobbied for. They wanted 100 percent free allowances in year one, declining proportionately with the state cap in subsequent years. But the revenue from the sale of the consigned allowances will help offset some of the price impacts on customers, though NW Natural says it impossible to know how much until it develops a plan with state regulators to spend the proceeds. We appreciate the work thats gone on to improve the bill, said Bill Edmonds, NW Naturals director of environmental policy and sustainability. This is an improvement. New emission standard for industrial companies: Studies suggest that almost all the industrial companies regulated under the program are so-called energy-intensive, trade-exposed businesses, meaning theyre vulnerable to out-of-state competition and carbon pricing could lead them to shift production and jobs elsewhere. The bills sponsors have offered numerous concessions to mitigate that impact and the latest version goes further. Industrial companies will initially get 95 percent free emissions allowances, then can maintain that level of freebies if they can demonstrate that they are using best available technology for reducing emissions in their facilities. To demonstrate compliance, the companies will have to submit a third-party analysis, certified by the Carbon Policy Office. They will be able to seek review of that certification decision through a contested hearing. Theyll have to re-certify that theyre meeting the benchmark every nine years, instead of every six years, which will give companies more time to recover any investment in updated equipment or processes. This was a proposal from industry that they feel comfortable with, Dembrow said. He added that the program will devote some of its auction revenues to a program that Business Oregon is developing to help industries become more energy efficient. Chris McCabe, executive director of the Northwest Pulp & Paper Association, said the latest version continues to put thousands of family-wage jobs at risk and is certain to cause higher global emissions as production shifts from green, low-carbon emitting mills here in the Pacific Northwest to locations in other countries and states with far less stringent environmental regulations. Its a lose-lose for both jobs and the environment. Natural and working lands: Proceeds from allowance auctions to industrial and natural gas companies will go to the Climate Investment Fund, and backers expect that will amount to about $150 million a year. The amended bill dedicates 20 percent of those revenues to projects that reduce emissions or store carbon in the agriculture and forestry sectors. That could include projects to reduce wildfires and flooding, improve irrigation efficiency, or prepare for sea level rise. Governance:The amendments add more specificity regarding the responsibility and makeup of various oversight bodies, including the Oregon Climate Board, the Just Transition Advisory Committee, and a Citizens Advisory Committee that will help prepare a biennial plan to invest auction proceeds. Correction: Industrial companies compliance with best available technology standards would be certified by the Carbon Policy Office, not the Department of Environmental Quality, as an earlier version of this story stated. Legislative Republicans oppose the education funding bill awaiting a vote in the capitol but theyre proposing an amendment to enshrine it in the state constitution anyway. The Oregon Senate is prepared to vote on a bill to raise $2 billion in new business taxes in each two-year budget cycle, but Republicans have refused to show up this week for a vote. The money would pay for new education initiatives from preschool-age kids through high school. Republicans argue that theres nothing to prevent future legislatures from diverting the new tax money in the bill for purposes other than schools and early childhood programs. Its not clear Democrats would support an amendment and they would be sure to oppose it if Republicans demand lawmakers send the whole spending package to voters. Its also not clear Republicans would return if Democrats agree to send the amendment to voters. Republicans are united in opposition to House Bill 3427, arguing that it constitutes a hidden sales tax because it levies taxes on corporate revenues rather than profits. But Democrats hold a supermajority in both Oregon houses, meaning they can raise taxes without any Republican votes. The bills proponents say it would set aside funds to improve graduation rates, extend instructional time, reduce class sizes and provide special services for very young children. They say various accountability measures written into the bill would ensure school districts spend the money effectively. Absent a constitutional amendment, though, lawmakers would be free to change how they spend the tax money in future years. And Republicans are hammering that point, suggesting the money may not ultimately end up in the classroom. On Thursday, Sen. Tim Knopp, R-Bend, said he is drafting a constitutional amendment that would require the new money go to schools and education programs. Our biggest concern on that tax package is that, you know, its not dedicated funds. People keep using that word and its not, Sen. Herman Baertschiger, R-Grants Pass, said earlier in the week. Im really worried that were not being candid with Oregon about how those funds can be used. The Republican caucus is spotlighting comments Senate President Peter Courtney, D-Salem, made in a legislative hearing Monday about the new tax bill. Asked at the hearing about underfunded community colleges, which get no additional revenue in the new tax bill, Courtney said the new tax dollars could free up the general fund money so we can have a really strong conversation, not exclusively about the amount of money in community colleges. Republicans say his comments suggest Courtney would like to re-allocate money from the general funds education budget into other programs using the new tax money to offset the education cuts rather than create an overall increase in classroom spending. On Thursday, though, Courtney insisted thats not what he meant. The money is for the kids. Not for the adults, Courtney said, pounding a table for emphasis and then repeating his declaration. The new tax revenue would create less pressure on the general fund, Courtney said, because it would establish a stable and consistent source of school funding and would reduce pressure to find general fund money for the new programs established by the tax bill. Courtney declined to take a position on a constitutional amendment to protect that spending. He noted that Oregon voters often reject amendments and said his top priority is passing the tax bill but Courtney acknowledged theres no easy way to compel Senate Republicans to return. The Legislature is due to adjourn at the end of June. But if the GOP continues to stay away, Courtney said he expects Gov. Kate Brown would call a special session to pass a budget and vote on other unfinished business. You dont want to be in the capitol in the summer, in Oregon, he said. Oregonian reporter Hillary Borrud contributed to this report. -- Mike Rogoway | twitter: @rogoway | 503-294-7699 SALEM For the third day in a row, Republicans in the Oregon Senate failed to provide a quorum on Thursday. In a scene that was a virtual repeat of the previous two days, Senate President Peter Courtney, D-Salem, gaveled the chamber into session at 11 a.m. and then again at 2:30 p.m. Just one Republican, Sen. Tim Knopp of Bend, appeared on the floor. Knopp has been serving as a sort of emissary for the caucus, allowing them to send their message to the Democrats on the floor without actually providing enough members for the Senate to conduct business. At least two Republicans would need to show up to a floor session for the chamber to vote on bills. The ongoing walkout has stalled action on House Bill 3427, which would raise billions of dollars in new taxes to boost spending on public schools and early childhood education. Another Republican Senator, Alan Olsen of Canby, testified in a legislative committee Thursday morning but did not show up for the floor session. The Senate Republican caucus leader, Sen. Herman Baertschiger, R-Grants Pass, issued a statement just before the morning floor session was scheduled to begin. Today I met with the Senate President, again, to try to find a resolution of our differences, he said. While Baertschiger noted that both parties support funding for education, the two sides are disagreeing on how to get there. The Democratic Party makes it clear that they have the supermajority and they will do as they please, said Baertschiger. Republicans have presented a list of demands to Democrats in exchange for returning to the capitol. The GOP wants several bills killed, including an omnibus gun bill and a measure that would regulate carbon emissions. After an unsuccessful attempt at locating the missing Republican Senators, Courtney announced the Senate would try again on Friday morning. Mayor Ted Wheeler appeared to repeat a crude oil exporters talking points in an email this month, saying the company, Zenith Energy, is not technically expanding their operations on the Willamette River in Portland. In fact, interviews and documents show, Zenith is exporting more crude oil than ever and is constructing facilities that will further boost its capacity. Federal export data show the company singlehandedly established Oregons crude oil export market in the span of about one year. Wheeler tweeted Wednesday afternoon that it is highly misleading to characterize him as adopting Zeniths reasoning. He said his advisers are skeptical of the companys claims and are working to verify them. Ultimately, its a case of semantics that could come with significant political ramifications. A senior official within Wheelers office said, The term expansion depends on what youre talking about, and explained that Zenith had not expanded its overall tank capacity but was simply handling more crude oil than in the past. Technically theyre right, the official said about the companys contention that it is not expanding. Yet the company is expanding its export operations, which is at the heart of what concerns many Portlanders. And the mayors comments only further raise their concerns. In the mayors email, obtained Wednesday by The Oregonian/OregonLive, Wheeler responded to the Rev. Bill Sinkford, a Unitarian pastor in Portland, who had sent him a message asking the city to stop or delay Zenith Energys expansion. The expansion brings a new rail car unloading station that allows 42 cars to be unloaded at once, compared to the current capacity of 12. Zenith executives have described that work as a modernization project and said it is not an expansion. One executive, Grady Reamer, Zeniths vice president of U.S. operations, said several of Wheelers aides were told of the companys view to that effect during a meeting at City Hall. The meeting, held on March 19, included Reamer and another Zenith executive, two directors at the BNSF railroad company, a lobbyist, and Wheelers chief of staff, external affairs director and environmental policy advisor, records show. The mayor himself stepped in only briefly to make introductions, Reamer said. Following the meeting, Reamer emailed the mayors chief of staff, Kristin Dennis, saying he hoped the company was able to clearly address the misperceptions about Zenith Energy and our Portland Terminal. Seven weeks later, Wheeler appeared to adopt the companys logic in his message to Sinkford, who did not return a message seeking comment Wednesday. This issue is very complex. Zenith is doing work based on permits that were issued in 2014, Wheeler wrote to the pastor. They are not technically expanding their operations under the permit. The mayor added: They are, however, moving more trains through. That is my primary concern. He said he is in broad philosophical alignment with Sinkford over the danger of trains carrying crude oil. But, Wheeler went on, the city is limited in its ability to regulate trains, which are generally overseen by federal agencies. We are looking at all options with our regional partners and environmental groups, Wheeler wrote. Stay tuned. -- Gordon R. Friedman GFriedman@Oregonian.com A former Disney executive was convicted Tuesday of sexually abusing a 7-year-old girl. Michael Laney, 73, was convicted of four counts of sexual abuse in the first degree after a six-day trial. Multnomah County Circuit Court Judge Benjamin Souede acquitted Laney of three counts of first-degree rape and three counts of first-degree sex abuse. He is scheduled to be sentenced June 14. According to court documents, Laney began abusing the victim in 2009, when she was about 7 years old, and there were multiple incidents of abuse spanning about two years. The child had initially reported the abuse in 2017 in Washington, where she lived at the time. Another alleged victim also reported that Laney had sexually abused her in 2007 when she lived in Portland, but the Multnomah County District Attorneys Office said the court could not find sufficient evidence to prove it beyond a reasonable doubt. Court documents state that Laney is a resident of Bainbridge Island, Washington. Jayati Ramakrishnan; 503-221-4320; jramakrishnan@oregonian.com; @JRamakrishnanOR Visit subscription.oregonlive.com/newsletters to get Oregonian/OregonLive journalism delivered to your email inbox. A large not-for-profit retirement community in Southwest Portland plans to build a new 10-story tower on a nearby block. The expansion would add 127 one- and two-bedroom apartments to Terwilliger Plaza, whose already-sprawling campus houses about 350 seniors. The community said the construction is expected to cost $100 million. Terwilliger Plaza has started marketing the units to prospective residents, who would have to pay an entrance fee averaging $650,000 and a monthly service fee of $4,000 when they move in, the organizations chief executive said. The new tower is expected to open in 2022. The community was founded in 1950 by the Oregon Retired Teachers Association, and the first building now called The Tower opened in 1962. A high-end 48-unit expansion, known as The Heights, opened in 2008. Its owned by a nonprofit organization and governed by an elected board, made up mostly of residents. Oregons population of retirement-age residents is growing rapidly thanks to the aging baby boomer generation, the first who turned 65 in 2011. Thats increasing demand for senior housing. -- Elliot Njus enjus@oregonian.com; 503-294-5034; @enjus Visit subscription.oregonlive.com/newsletters to get Oregonian/OregonLive journalism delivered to your email inbox. Intel told investors Wednesday it will take years to overcome 2019s disappointing sales, a setback that resulted from a major engineering lapse and a shortfall in production capacity. While the diminished outlook sent Intel shares down Wednesday and Thursday, newly promoted chief executive Bob Swan insisted Intel has addressed its technical problems and has a plan to turn the worlds largest chipmaker into a more humble company better attuned to its customers needs. We think its a good time to be in the semi industry and a very good time for us, Swan said at Intels first investor day in more than two years. The role we play for our customers gets larger and larger. While Intel says its broader focus beyond PCs gives it a much greater long-term growth opportunity, it will take years to get there. The company forecast annual sales will grow to $85 billion over the next five years, compared to about $71 billion in 2018 and a forecast dip to $69 billion this year. That implies an annual growth rate under 4 percent just 60 percent as fast as the company grew over the prior five years. For the next few years, at least, Intel warned its profit margins will fall as it spends money to adopt two new lines of chip manufacturing technology after years of delay. Susquehanna Financial Group analyst Christopher Rolland called the outlook disappointing" and advised investors to wait on the sidelines until high-value growth returns or competitive risks dissipate." Beginning in 2021, Intel said it expects to see a rapid upturn in profitability as it completes development of new chips the company predicts will restore its technological leadership. But investors will have to wait to see those rewards. Intel shares plunged nearly 9 percent in a single day last month after the company cut its outlook for 2019. Shares fell another 2.5 percent Wednesday as Swan spoke to Wall Street analysts and closed down 5.3 percent Thursday at $46.62. We let you down and we let ourselves down, Swan said. Well get better on this. Heres what went wrong: Intels next-generation, 10-nanometer microprocessor finally begins shipping next month years behind schedule. The company says it was too aggressive in upgrading the technology in the new chips, resulting in production defects that took years to overcome. Thats enabled rivals such as Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. to erase the competitive edge Intel long enjoyed. Intel set aside factory space for the new chips and when they didnt arrive on schedule the company lacked capacity to make its current generation of 14nm chips. That resulted in production shortfalls that began in 2018 and wont be fully resolved until late this year. Intel made big bets on smartphone modems and a class of memory chips but now says it doesnt have a path to profitability in either space. The company said last month it would abandon smartphone modems for the fast, new 5G wireless standard and Swan said its seeking a partnership to share the costs of its memory business. Sales to data centers, a market where Intel has a virtual monopoly, fell unexpectedly. Intel believes this was a temporary dip. Intel is among the worlds biggest technology companies and Oregons largest corporate employer. Though its headquarters are in Silicon Valley, its largest and most advanced operations are in Washington County, where 20,000 Intel employees work. A lot has changed at Intel in the past year: Swan took over for former CEO Brian Krzanich, forced out after the company uncovered a past consensual relationship with an Intel employee in violation of corporate policy. Meanwhile, Intel said it will spend billions of dollars on cutting-edge factories in Oregon, Ireland and Israel. What hasnt changed, though, is Intels fundamental strategy. Swan has adopted his predecessors plan to shift away from dependence on the aging PC business in favor of data centers and emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and connected devices known as the Internet of Things. Intel unveiled chips Wednesday designed for each of those categories. And the company made a bold promise, declaring that a new generation of advanced 7nm chip will arrive in 2021 resuming the two-year cadence for new technology Intel was unable to deliver with the 10nm chips. We think that Intels broad range of capabilities and rich product lineup put the company in a strong position to benefit from its leadership in what we consider to be some of the most exciting growth areas of the next several years, Instanet analyst David Wong wrote to clients. He rates Intel a buy with a $65 target price, 37 percent above the stocks current level. As the business grows, Swan promised to hold down costs by reducing spending from 30 percent of revenue to just 25 percent. The company said that will help sustain profit margins up even as the company spends more to deliver its 10nm chips. And once the new 7nm chips become available in 2021, Intel said profit margins are likely to grow quickly because the company wont be spending as much to develop new technologies and because its new chips will give it a competitive advantage in the market. On Wednesday, Intel chief engineering officer Murthy Renduchintala said the company took on way too much risk by trying to incorporate multiple improvements in the 10nm chips. In the future, he said, Intel will give its engineers clear guidance on the balance of priorities between technological upgrades and meeting deadlines. Renduchintala said Intel will adopt a simplified process for 7nm, enabling it to move more quickly to apply that new technology to a broader range of chips. Weve learned from our 10nm experience, Renduchintala said. I think weve come out a stronger company because of it. This article has been updated with analyst comment and Thursdays share price. -- Mike Rogoway | twitter: @rogoway | 503-294-7699 The estate of a developmentally disabled woman who suffocated on her food last year while on an adult day-care field trip to Washington Countys Hagg Lake is suing the service provider for $1.2 million. The wrongful death lawsuit, filed Friday in Multnomah County Circuit Court, claims Tualatin Valley Workshop Inc. didnt ensure the safety of Lorena Pinon. The 44-year-old choked on unchewed meat on Sept. 24, 2018, at the Gaston-area lake. The lawsuit alleges the company failed to properly supervise her eating and adequately train staff on safety standards and emergency protocols. The suit also claims staffers chose a location for the outing that made it hard to see every patient at once. According to a court filing, Pinon choked on food that wasnt properly prepared. Her care plan required caretakers to supervise and assist her as she ate, the document said. The Tualatin Valley Workshop, more commonly known as TVW, provides services such as job skills training to adults with mental and developmental disabilities. At the time of her death, Pinon was part of the groups Vanguard program, which the nonprofits website describes as a community inclusion program that can include candle-making, crochet, arts and crafts, and learning computer skills. Two employees were in charge of looking after Pinon and five other people with disabilities when she died, according to Jason Kafoury, one of the attorneys who filed the suit on behalf of her estate. TVW did not immediately return a message asking for comment Wednesday. The Oregon Department of Human Services conducted a licensing review of TVW the day after Pinon died and two days later suspended its state certifications to provide services to people with mental or developmental disabilities in community-based settings, causing the business to temporarily close. State regulators determined at the time that TVW executives didnt make sure staff was properly trained, including in CPR and first aid, and didnt ensure current background checks were completed. According to a 2018 report written as part of the review, the Vanguard program wasnt set up to ensure adequate support/supervision of lunch time to ensure aspiration guidelines could be met for all individuals present. The report identified several cases where staff didnt properly follow meal plan guidelines for people in their care. One example included a case when a patient was seen eating a large stack of chocolate pancakes with chocolate chips even though staffers were supposed to cut all of that persons food into bite size pieces and remind them to eat slowly. In that case, the person was only told to take smaller bites. The nonprofits suspension was lifted about three weeks later in December and it reopened, said Christy Sinatra, a state department of human services spokeswoman. She said the agencys office of development disabilities services continues to monitor the training of TVWs staff and the documentation the nonprofit must have in place before providing services to people. -- Everton Bailey Jr. ebailey@oregonian.com | 503-221-8343 |@EvertonBailey Visit subscription.oregonlive.com/newsletters to get Oregonian/OregonLive journalism delivered to your email inbox. Update: 7:35 p.m.: Police identify driver, pedestrian in U.S. 26 crash. The driver of a semi truck hit a pedestrian who apparently walked in the path of the truck late Thursday morning on U.S. 26 near Hillsboro, authorities say. Oregon State Police identified the pedestrian as Morris Rivera, 69, of Hillsboro. He was transported to Legacy Emanuel Medical Center with critical injuries. The semi truck driver is Eric Scott, 39, of Stockbridge, Georgia. OSP said based on witness accounts and other evidence, they believe Rivera intentionally walked in front of the semi truck. A spokesman for the Oregon State Police, which is investigating the crash, didnt immediately have information about the circumstances of the crash. The highways eastbound lanes were closed between Northwest Jackson School Road and Brookwood Parkway for about two hours, and a detour was set up. -- Jim Ryan; jryan@oregonian.com; 503-221-8005; @Jimryan015 Jayati Ramakrishnan contributed to this report. Visit subscription.oregonlive.com/newsletters to get Oregonian/OregonLive journalism delivered to your email inbox. A driver was arrested Tuesday after authorities say he almost hit several construction workers while drunk, crashed through a Beaverton-area house, ran away and was later found hiding outside another home in the area. Justin Casto, 33, had a blood alcohol level of 0.08 percent two hours after the 10:30 p.m. crash, according to the Washington County Sheriffs Office. The house in the 1800 block of Southwest Edgewood Court was empty at the time. According to the sheriffs office, Casto almost hit the workers while speeding through a construction zone, knocking over several traffic cones in the process. He later crashed his white BMW through the kitchen at the back of the house. Casto was gone by the time deputies arrived. A police dog found the driver hiding In the backyard of another home about a quarter mile away. Casto was booked into the Washington County Jail on accusations of driving under the influence of intoxicants, failure to perform the duties of a driver, second-degree criminal mischief and reckless endangering. -- Everton Bailey Jr. ebailey@oregonian.com | 503-221-8343 |@EvertonBailey Visit subscription.oregonlive.com/newsletters to get Oregonian/OregonLive journalism delivered to your email inbox. A relatively dry April in the Pacific Northwest and increased daytime temperatures and strong winds have prompted the National Weather Service to issue a red flag fire warning for most locations in the Willamette Valley for 1-9 p.m. Thursday, May 9. Conditions are favorable for rapid fire spread at least through the weekend, according to the weather service and most counties agree as they are issuing burn bans through Sunday, May 12. If you are unsure if your area is currently under a backyard and agricultural burn ban, contact your county offices. Heres a list of area counties and fire agencies that have specifically banned outdoor burning: Tualatin Valley Fire and Rescue has enacted a High-Fire Danger Burn Ban, according to a recent release. Outdoor burning will be banned throughout TVFRs jurisdiction, which includes portions of Washington, Multnomah, Clackamas and Yamhill counties. The burn ban prohibits all of the following: Backyard or open burning (branches, yard debris, etc.) Agricultural burning (agricultural wastes, crops, field burning, etc.) Any other land clearing or slash burning Activities still allowed include small backyard recreational fire pits (maximum three feet in diameter and two feet high) in a safe location and outdoor fireplaces, grills, portable fireplaces and similar appliances with clean, dry firewood, briquettes, propane or natural gas. The ban will remain in effect until weather conditions pose less fire risk. Since this is an early-season ban, the fire marshal anticipates it will be temporary until normal weather patterns resume, according to the Thursday informational release. The Multnomah Fire Defense Board has issued an outdoor burn ban effective Thursday, May 9, 2019, in all areas of Multnomah County. The burn ban has been issued due to forecasted high temperatures, limited rainfall and ongoing dry conditions. Outdoor barbecuing is still allowed; however, citizens should exercise extreme caution. Smokers are reminded to ensure their cigarettes are truly out and placed in proper receptacles. The Multnomah County burn ban includes recreational campfires, fire pits, yard debris, agricultural burning and prior permits issued for open burning until further notice. Check with local fire officials for more information. The burn line for Gresham, Troutdale, Wood Village and Fairview is 503-618-3083. Corbett Fire District is 503-695-2225, Portland Fire is 503-823-3700. For information on Linn Countys burn ban call 541-451-1904. Clark County imposed a ban on all debris burning until further notice starting at 8 a.m. June 17, joining Skamania, Cowlitz and Lewis counties in Washington. Though recreational burning will still be allowed as long as certain procedures are followed, debris burning will be illegal until there is enough rain and lower temperatures to protect against wildfires. For more information visit https://www.clark.wa.gov/community-development/outdoor-burning The Marion County Fire Defense Board has issued an outdoor burn ban effective as of Wednesday, May 8, in all areas of Marion County for details call the burn information line: 877-982-0011 or visit https://www.mcfd1.com For Clackamas county information log onto: www.clackamasfire.com Within the red flag zone, residents should use extreme caution with outdoor cooking sources, with gas-powered machinery which can cause sparks, and with cigarettes or other smoking material. The National Weather Service red flag warning becomes a watch on Friday due to less wind. The cautions remain through the weekend which will be warm and dry. The National Weather Service has issued a red flag fire warning in these areas. For Thursday, Portland will see a high of 86 degrees. Winds will be breezy with some gusts near 20 mph. On Friday and Saturday high temps are expected to reach 90 degrees. How do you choose a wine? Whether it tastes good and how much it costs, are the basic criteria of any wine purchase. Beyond that, how do you whittle down the choices to decide which wine to pluck from the shelf and place in your cart? How about a wine made by a refugee dreaming of restoring his country's wine traditions? You might help promote Middle East peace, or ease poverty in one of the world's poorest countries. More likely, you filter by where the wine is from - France, Italy, California? That could be wine preference, political preference or a reflection of what's for dinner tonight. Do you favor heavy bottles, believing the wine inside must be high quality? A lot of people do, judging by the number of wineries using heavy glass. Perhaps a pretty label, a map, a critter or even some fanciful artwork of a mythical beast will catch your eye. Some wines use a sort of virtual reality to draw you in to an interactive experience, in which you download an app and point your phone at the label, which then comes to life. (Meanwhile, your dinner is getting cold.) There is a saying in the wine industry: The label sells the first bottle, the wine sells the second. Quality means nothing if people won't buy it, but marketing is ultimately superfluous if the wine is no good. And marketing today is increasingly about the story behind the wine. And it's not just wine. We may pay a little more for organic produce at the supermarket, believing it's better for the environment, or at a farmers market to support a local farmer. Folger's might give us a buzz, but fair-trade coffee is better for the environment and the farmers who grow the beans. Solar panels on our roofs, rain barrels on our patios, and electric vehicles in our driveways are not just ways to save money on electricity, water or gas. They are statements about how we want to live our lives and the kind of world we want to leave to our children. So why not buy a wine made by Abdullah Richi, a Syrian refugee who trucks indigenous Syrian grapes grown in conflict-ridden areas of his homeland across the border to his Dar Richi winery in Lebanons Bekaa Valley, and dreams of someday reviving Syrias wine traditions? Or Cremisan wines, made in an ancient monastery near Jerusalem with grapes trucked across security checkpoints from vineyards in Palestinian territory? Or a Bolivian tannat, grown in some of the highest vineyards of the world, whose profits will help lift some of South Americas poorest farmers out of poverty? You wont find those wines in the traditional lists of the worlds top vino. Those pointed questions are posed by Peter Weltman, a journalist turned evangelist wine importer, with his company Borderless Wine. Weltman preaches a gospel of sorts, in which wine belongs to everyone and is not confined by national borders or political disputes. Sporting a T-shirt proclaiming himself an activist wine drinker, Weltman argues that wine has been telling the worlds story at least since the invention of the bottle. The wine bottle was invented to travel, so it is one of the best ambassadors for the place where the wine originates, Weltman said during a panel discussion and tasting. Rose Previte, proprietor of Compass Rose and Maydan restaurants in Washington, noted that younger customers are more interested in the narrative behind the wine than its rating from critics. Generation Z wants to know where a wine came from, what its story is, she said, contrasting that openness to a nationally known politician who balked at Prevites unconventional wine list because he had, as she said, lots of borders in his mind. Maria Bastasch, beverage director for Compass Rose and Maydan, directly connected our wine choices with the world's most intractable conflict. "If you have a chance to buy a wine made in Syria using indigenous Syrian grapes made by actual Syrians, you make a connection with Syria and its people that goes beyond war and the images on the news," she said. And that connection may take us beyond the simple calculation of price and taste that initiates our purchasing decisions. A story can be delicious, after all, and it can liberate us as wine drinkers and help those who make the wine. "These wines break down the normative barriers that tell us what is good and what we should drink," she said. So choose a wine with a story and a cause. And take a stand while you pull a cork. The Midland Symphony Orchestra awarded four recipients the 2019 Clara Highhill Memorial Scholarship. The Clara Highhill Memorial Scholarship was established to honor the memory of a longtime symphony volunteer. Eligible students must be in the 9th, 10th or 11th grade and either a resident of Midland County or studying with a Midland County teacher. In addition to an application form, students submitted recommendations from school or private music teachers and an audition recording. Jocelyn Cha has played the violin for eight years and is in the 11th grade at Dow High where she plays clarinet in the band under direction of Stephen DeRees, and violin in the orchestra under direction of Amanda Thoms. Her private instructor is Yuchao Weng, who is a graduate student at the University of Michigan. She has attended the National Symphony Orchestra Summer Music Institute, as well as the Liberec International Violin Academy. She will use the funds for private lessons and attending summer programs. Cara Gallagher is in 10th grade at Midland High where she plays flute in the band directed by Bill Monroe. She takes private flute lessons from Wendy Hohmeyer. She intends to use her award for private flute studies. Caleb Qiu is a sophomore at Dow High where he is a violinist in the Symphony and Honors Orchestras, directed my Amanda Thoms. Caleb is studying with Yuchao Weng, a student at the University Of Michigan. He has participated in the Alma College String Day Camp and is considering attending Interlochen or Blue Lake summer camps in the future. He will be using his scholarship for private lessons. Emilia Teed is a junior at Dow High where she plays flute in the band under the direction of Stephen DeRees. She has taken flute lessons with Wendy Hohmeyer for eight years. She has gone to Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp for the last five years, and was last year a member of the Blue Lake International Youth Symphonic Orchestra that traveled to Belgium, Germany and France. She intends to use the funds to pay for her flute lessons. Editor's note: This is Part 5 of an occasional series on the 50th anniversary of NASA's flight to the moon. It is written by the staff of the Houston Chronicle, a fellow Hearst Newspaper. The legends of the Apollo era get the same far-off look of wonder and amazement in thinking back 50 years to the July 20, 1969, moon landing. They even use the same words to describe it. Suspenseful. Incredible. Wonderful. And they largely share the same dim view of the direction NASA is headed today. Former astronauts, flight directors and administrators who lived through NASA's golden years of putting men on the moon say the NASA of today barely resembles the fledgling space agency that they lived for. It was an organization that made tough decisions with speed and finesse, that flew by the seat of its pants and learned at breakneck speed, with a reputation for good leadership and trust among the ranks. Now, they see an agency plagued by inadequate budgets, where missions change with each presidential administration. Their beloved NASA, they say, is at the mercy of politicians who are afraid of taking risks for the betterment of society. "I'm not the only one of us who says this, but I feel fortunate to have lived when I did," Apollo 7 astronaut Walt Cunningham told the Houston Chronicle in April. They're frustrated by the nation's lack of progress. "It seems to have been just fits and starts in the last 50 years since Apollo 11," said Glynn Lunney, a former Mission Control flight director who was on duty at NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston during the moon landing. "What do we have to show for it? The space station, sure. But what else?" 'Flailing for 25 years' Soon after the Apollo 11 astronauts returned home from the first mission to the lunar surface, NASA personnel began planning for a future in which human space exploration was commonplace. They dreamed of a module much like the space station orbiting the moon by 1978, a 50-man station orbiting Earth by 1980, a lunar-surface base that same year. They even had detailed plans of landing humans on Mars by 1983. The plans seemed feasible at the time because the Apollo lunar-surface missions -- there were nine more planned after Apollo 11 -- were expected to lay the groundwork for a base on the moon. But instead, personnel watched helplessly as the Apollo program they built was shuttered before its time, its moon missions axed from the agency's plans. Apollo's budget was slashed in half in 1971, receiving less than $1 billion for the first time in eight years. The 1972 Apollo 17 flight was to be the last. "We all thought we'd keep going," Lunney said. "We thought we'd go back to the moon, and then Mars." Lunney said it feels as though NASA has been "flailing for 25 years." Christopher Kraft, NASA's first Mission Control flight director who worked on the Gemini, Mercury and Apollo programs, gets choked up just talking about the end of the Apollo program -- and the nation's failure to return to the moon since. Kraft told the Chronicle that people lost interest in sending humans to the moon after NASA proved it could be done. Trying to match the political will of President John F. Kennedy to keep it going, he said, "is impossible." "But isn't it a shame that if we had been doing what we should have been doing, we'd have had men on the moon commercially at least 25, maybe 30 years ago?" Kraft said. Aiming for Mars That's not to diminish programs such as Skylab -- the U.S.'s first space station that was operated for about a year in the early 1970s -- or the 30-year space shuttle program and International Space Station, which has been flying in low-Earth orbit for two decades. George Abbey, who was assigned to the Apollo program in 1964, touted the brilliance of the space shuttle program when he spoke to the Chronicle in early March. The space shuttles flew missions from 1981-2011, and during that time, Abbey oversaw astronaut selection, helped develop the space station and served as director of the Johnson Space Center in Houston. "Shuttle should never have ended," Abbey said. "It had the ability to assemble in Earth's orbit, where we could assemble what you needed to go to the moon or Mars. But now we've got those on display in museums." It's good NASA is trying to return to the moon, Abbey said, but the hardware being built to take astronauts there is severely lacking. "We're going back to the capsules we flew in the '60s, and they're not as good as the ones we flew," Abbey said. "You look at what we're spending across the government, and it doesn't really add up." Soon after taking office in 2017, President Donald Trump announced that the U.S. would return to the moon as a steppingstone for a mission to Mars. To do this, NASA would use hardware that already was being developed: the Orion spacecraft and the Space Launch System, the biggest rocket the U.S. space agency has ever built. "I'm optimistic now that we have an administration that seems to be committed to getting us back to the moon and to use that experience there not only for science, but also to prepare to go to Mars," said scientist Harrison Schmitt, the 12th man to walk on the moon. But several Apollo legends find the decision to keep moving forward with the SLS rocket downright absurd. "We should not have built it," Kraft said. "We've been trying to build big, dumb boosters, and it's kind of ridiculous because we don't need them. We have all kinds of rockets in the world right now." 'Where is something new?' The Orion spacecraft was part of President George W. Bush's Constellation Program, which aimed to return humans to the moon as a way to get to Mars. But President Barack Obama killed Constellation in 2010, opting for a mission to an asteroid and, eventually, Mars. Obama kept the Orion spacecraft as part of the project, adding the SLS rocket into the mix. It's had problems ever since. NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine -- after momentarily suggesting in March that the first Orion mission should be launched on a commercial rocket -- indicated the SLS rocket would again miss its launch date, most recently scheduled for June 2020. The first Orion-SLS mission originally was set to launch in 2017. "What we have found is that the development of SLS has proven to be more challenging than previously anticipated," Bridenstine told Congress in April. The rocket is being built by Boeing. To Lunney and Kraft, it seems as if NASA is trying to copy the Apollo mission by using a small capsule and an enormous rocket, instead of developing new technology. "Where the hell is something new?" Lunney asked. Lunney is particularly concerned that NASA isn't doing enough to develop a new propulsion system that could, potentially, get the nation to Mars. With current rocket technology, it would take about nine months to reach the Red Planet. "We need a significant breakthrough in propulsion," Lunney said. Bill Gerstenmaier, associate administrator for human exploration and operations at NASA, told the Chronicle in April that the agency has started to explore nuclear thermal propulsion for future spaceflights, as opposed to the chemical propulsion currently used. "It's not at a very high level, but we've definitely started doing work on it," Gerstenmaier said. Building a mini-space station orbiting the moon, known as the Lunar Orbital Platform-Gateway, is also part of Trump's plans for the space agency. The gateway would bring together international and commercial partners to utilize the moon for research, resources and a potential platform to launch to Mars. It's a good step, Lunney said -- though he doesn't know if it's the right step. Abbey, however, thinks it's "crazy." "You don't build a space station to orbit a space station. God gave you a space station called the moon," he said. "You need to look at programs realistically and make do with what you have and I think, unfortunately, NASA is not doing that." 'Lost our vision' The policy fluctuations make it difficult for NASA engineers and scientists to make headway on projects -- a problem some blamed on leadership within the agency. "We do not have the leadership we had 50 years ago," Apollo 15 astronaut Al Worden told the Chronicle in April. "It disappeared about 40 years ago, and we've never gotten back to having dynamic leaders who put programs together and made sure they worked." Lunney agreed. "NASA starts things a number of times and then has to stop because people change their mind," he said. "NASA is stalled." The problems were evident to astronaut Neil Armstrong, the first man on the moon. In Armstrong last's interview before his death in 2012, he said he was "substantially concerned" about the state of NASA policies. "We have a situation in the U.S. where the White House and Congress are at odds over what the future direction should be," he said. "They're sort of playing a game, and NASA is the shuttlecock that they're hitting back and forth." Buzz Aldrin, the second man to walk on the moon, told the Washington Post in 2014 that he felt the space agency was "adrift," citing the fact that the U.S. has relied on the Russians to take its astronauts to the space station since 2011. Regardless of the reasons, NASA is struggling, Lunney said. "I think they're trying," he said. "I'm sympathetic to how difficult it is. But it seems like we've lost our vision." To the editor: State Sen. Jim Stamas expressed disappointment that our district boundaries must be redrawn following the unanimous decision of our federal court that Michigans 2011 political district maps were a gerrymander of historic proportions (Midland Daily News, April 26) maps that Mr. Stamas himself participated in drawing in 2011. Stamas understands full well, and apparently supports, that the voters in his and 35 other districts in Michigan had only illusory choices last November. Because of the way the lines were drawn the election outcomes were largely foregone conclusions. As the three-judge panel ruled, the districts drawn by the state Legislature in 2011 created districts that were intentionally drawn to ensure a particular outcome in each district. These judges said the evidence proved that the maps were drawn to silence Democratic voters, that the maps succeeded, and that there was no other reasonable justification for how the maps were drawn. Further, the judges understood that this would mean Michigan's senators, including Stamas, would have to run again in two years instead of four years but the sentiment of the senators elected under an unconstitutional apportionment does not outweigh the constitutional rights of millions of Michiganders to elect their senators under constitutional maps. Michiganders are lucky that our federal courts continue to strive to protect Michigan voters from this pernicious practice that undermines our democracy. So, what Stamas calls disappointing is only true if you are complicit with this subversion of democracy. For Stamas, it is disappointing because he will have to run again in 2020 in a district drawn without bias. Stamas will actually work for everyones votes, and if he were to win, work to represent all of us rather than the NRA, Enbridge Inc., and other special interests. Last November, Michiganders voted overwhelmingly 61.1% to end gerrymandering, including a 57% win in our 98th Michigan State House district. Stamas and the Republican Senate should not waste our tax dollars fighting this in the Supreme Court. We the people have already spoken clearly: Michigan wants gerrymandering gone, and now. JILL HAVER-CRISSMAN Midland 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. Banjul, Gambia (PANA) - Gambian President Adama Barrow Thursday reiterated the importance of ongoing reforms of his government, stressing that they would go a long way in correcting the institutional and governance failures of the past regime Abuja, Nigeria (PANA) For the second time this week, President Muhammadu Buhari on Thursday met with heads of Nigerias defence and security agencies on the security situation in the country Conakry, Guinea (PANA) The Guinean Members of Parliament on Thursday adopted a new text on the Guinean civil code, banning polygamy in the country, parliamentary sources said Balaclava, Mauritius (PANA) - Mauritian Deputy Prime Minister, who is also Minister of Energy and Public Utilities, Mr Ivan Leslie Collendavelloo, on Thursday spoke about the importance of accelerating the development rate of renewable energy (RE) in Mauritius, stating that by 2020, solar energy will constitute about 7% of the total energy export to the grid as compared to less than one percent in 2014 Dakar, Senegal (PANA) Officials of Senegal's Interior ministry and representatives of several political parties met in Dakar on Thursday to prepare for the national political dialogue scheduled for 28 May BLOOMINGTON Farmers throughout Central Illinois are severely behind the five-year average when it comes to planting corn and are likely to fall further behind with more wet stuff expected Thursday and Friday. But a break in the weather may be close. We will have more rain Thursday and Friday over most of the state, with the heaviest in the northwestern portion of Illinois, said State Climatologist Brian Kerschner. But after that, it looks like it is going to dry out and then farmers may finally get the chance to get into the fields. A lot of us dont even have nitrogen on yet, said Cory Montgomery, who farms in rural McLean County. Its going to take four or five days to dry out once it stops raining. Some brisk winds would help. Gene Dowd of rural Decatur said he is just anxious to get started. I am all ready to go, he said. But some of these fields have ponds in the middle of them. The hope is to get started somewhere and as you finish one field, another one is dry enough to start there. Mondays Illinois crop progress and condition report from the USDA indicated 0.2 days or roughly less than an hour of the week ending May 5 was suitable for fieldwork. That figure may not be much better this week, since saturated and sometimes flooded fields kept planters in a holding pattern. Across the state, precipitation averaged 3.22 inches for May, so far, which is 2.33 inches above normal. Corn planted across the state as of May 5 reached 10 percent, compared to 68 percent last year and 66 percent for the five-year average. Somewhere, according to the USDA, some corn plants have emerged about two percent. Also, the USDA reports, about three percent of planned soybean acreage is in the ground. But the heavy rain that fell April 30 through May 2 postponed plans to get spring planting started, since as much as 4 inches of precipitation in some spots left fields under water. I still look at this as the glass being half full, said Bob Wells, a Yield Challenge Coordinator with the Bloomington-based Illinois Soybean Association. Everybody is thinking that this wait is so terrible compared to last year, but last year, we went through one of the coldest Aprils on record and then we turned around and had one of the warmest Mays on record. Its funny how quickly things can turn. Larger equipment and better drainage systems in the fields also will benefit farmers in the next few weeks, said Wells, who grew up on a farm in Farmer City and now lives in Bement in Piatt County. Fields are now designed to drain so much more quickly than they did 40 years ago, he said. All of this rain is adding to the water table and so if we go through a period where it is dry, the impact will be reduced. Still, farmers can expect some yield loss as a result of the late planting. For soybeans, Wells said a rule of thumb is a loss of one-quarter of a bushel per acre per day for each day after May 1. For corn, the estimate is a loss of about one bushel per acre for each day after May 1. But if all else goes well, then that is still a pretty good year, he said. Even if it were late May, I still think farmers should be optimistic that they can have a good harvest in the fall. Contact Kevin Barlow at (309) 820-3238. Follow him on Twitter: @pg_barlow Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 The business news you need Get the latest local business news delivered FREE to your inbox weekly. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Jushi Holdings Inc. has released a video they say shows Jelani Day leaving the Bloomington Beyond/Hello cannabis dispensary. A company official said social media are "exploiting the confusion and anxiety of people related to Day's death. NORMAL Four parents addressed the McLean County Unit 5 Board of Education Wednesday, alleging racial disparities in student discipline and teacher and staff diversity. Im tired of having to talk to a principal or teacher and then we move on to the next incident," said Jade Hursey, a parent. "Im tired of hearing other black parents express the same frustration and it being overlooked. Hursey told a story of her daughter being accused of using profanity in the school hallway by teacher who didnt see a student trip over her and swear. She said this was one example of racial and gender bias as her daughter was the only black girl in the hallway. Kristal Shelbin, another Unit 5 parent, said the racial discrimination she hears about is "a debilitating threat to our children." "They deserve to feel welcome in their schools and not simply tolerated, and from the stories and the statistics, something is not going quite right, she said. Shelbin and Hursey identified the lack of black district employees as a source of disparity. It is important to close this gap as black teachers, administrators and staff have the opportunity to develop, teach and discipline, effectively communicate and share experiences from the perspective of a black man or woman, Hursey said. Hursey asked the board members what they do to resolve those disparities and what they will do in the future. The only board member to speak on the matter during the meeting was Mike Trask, who thanked those who spoke and said, Youre heard. After the meeting, Superintendent Mark Daniel acknowledged there are racial disparities in the district, especially in achievement and discipline based on data from the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), as well as gaps in the diversity of Unit 5 staff. The district is looking to hire someone primarily for examining data, including ESSA, Daniel said. "Weve not had that in our district and thats definitely a need," he said. "You know, the goal is how do you reduce gaps. Daniel also referenced the shortage of teachers in Illinois and said only 80 minority candidates will graduate from Illinois universities this spring. In other business, a consolidated district plan was approved for the 2019-2020 school year, an Illinois State Board of Education requirement for schools to receive federal grant funds. The plan is the first phase of the IL ePlan implemented by the ISBE that will consolidate and streamline the federal grant application process. In an effort to reduce the burden on schools applying for grants, the consolidated district plan allows districts to answer one set of planning questions for all of the federal formula grants. Eventually the ePlan will eliminate the need for multiple applications. Contact Kelsey Watznauer at (309) 820-3254. Follow her on Twitter: @kwatznauer. Love 2 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 3 Angry 5 Want to see more like this? Get our local education coverage delivered directly to your inbox. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. BLOOMINGTON A longtime employee of the McLean County Health Department was selected as interim health department administrator to lead the department as a search is conducted for an administrator to replace Camille Rodriguez. Tammy Brooks, director of the health department's community health services division, was approved by the McLean County Board of Health, effective June 1, at its meeting on Wednesday night. The board also approved a timeline for a search for a new administrator. The board hopes to select a new administrator in September. "The board recognizes we have a strong management team," Board of Health President Judy Buchanan said after the meeting. "We looked at all the strengths and needs of the department going forward. We felt that Tammy has the ability to take the lead and work with her colleagues to move us forward and keep the momentum going." "I'm very honored that the board would have the confidence in me," Brooks, 47, of Bloomington, told The Pantagraph. "I'm excited to continue what Camille and the staff have been building over the last year and a half. I'm confident in the leadership team that's currently in place and confident that we will continue to move forward." Rodriguez, who became health department administrator in January 2018, was selected by the County Board as county administrator in April and begins that role on June 1. While she is interim administrator, Brooks will continue as director of the community health services division, whose responsibilities include the communicable disease program, the dental clinic, nurse home visiting and immunizations. While Brooks is interim administrator, she will receive a 10 percent salary increase, bringing her hourly salary up to $38.96, which equates to $75,981 a year, Rodriguez said. The health department has 85 employees and a budget of $9 million. Responsibilities include restaurant inspections and communicable disease control. Brooks, who worked as an outreach worker/in-home counselor for PATH (Providing Access To Help) from 1996 to 1999, has been with the health department since then, serving as a family case manager, medical case manager and Women Infants and Children (WIC) program supervisor. Earlier in the meeting, Rodriguez reported that, after weeks of meetings, the board has signed a contract, through the end of the year, with the McLean County Center for Human Services (CHS) to help to fund CHS's psychiatric and emergency crisis intervention services through the end of the year. Funding had continued on a monthly basis as the board and health department staff negotiated with CHS staff and its board after CHS suspended accepting new clients into its psychiatric program in December because of declining support from the state and United Way of McLean County. As a result of negotiations, CHS has compromised and agreed to accept 40 additional clients into its psychiatric program by the end of December, Rodriguez said. The Board of Health, in turn, approved $222,000 for the psychiatric program for the final eight months of 2019 and $254,667 for crisis intervention for the final eight months of the year, she said. But the health department and Board of Health still want more information from CHS, including billing information, Rodriguez and several board members said. "The signatures are dry and we will continue to move forward with conversations with this agency (CHS)," Rodriguez said. Contact Paul Swiech at (309) 820-3275. Follow him on Twitter: @pg_swiech Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 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. Much evidence has been brought forth so far by authorities in the investigation into the death of 5-year-old Andrew "AJ" Freund of Crystal Lake, but legal observers caution that there are many factors that could affect the prosecution of his parents, who are accused of killing their son. A sworn statement by police in McHenry County court documents reported that the boy's father, Andrew "Drew" Freund, gave police incriminating statements about beatings and cold showers that AJ suffered, and led authorities to where the boy's body was buried in a remote area near Woodstock. In addition, police said they collected extensive physical evidence, such as soil samples from the burial site, Freund's muddy shoes, a shovel, a pre-dawn search for "child cpr" on Freund's phone, and a video on the phone of AJ's mother, JoAnn Cunningham, showing a badly bruised AJ as he was being berated for urinating in bed. Freund and Cunningham are charged with murder and other felony crimes in AJ's death. The parents are scheduled to appear in court Friday for a preliminary hearing in a case that has drawn national interest. Former Cook County prosecutor turned Chicago defense attorney Michael Oppenheimer, who is not affiliated with the case, said the evidence appears to be pretty damning. "Anybody that reads this (police statement) is probably outraged," he said. "It's a ton of evidence." Defense attorneys, he said, no doubt will try to get the statement thrown out, and will seek proof that Freund was read his rights. But Oppenheimer said the warrant looked proper, and getting the evidence quashed would be difficult. The defense may also seek to hold a trial in a different county, to avoid prejudiced juries, he said. But that, too, will be difficult, because judges have grown reluctant to change venues, preferring to question jurors to try to ensure their impartiality. Other defense attorneys not affiliated with the case who were contacted by the Tribune for an outside perspective cautioned that the police statement should be taken with some skepticism. Kevin Nolan, an attorney from Champaign and past president of the Illinois State Bar Association's committee on criminal law, conceded the affidavit "sounds bad," but what is true and what is admissible in court may be another question. "A defense attorney would be skeptical of every single bit of it," Nolan wrote in response to Tribune questions about the case. "Evidence can only be suppressed/barred if it is somehow incompetent, irrelevant or improperly acquired," Nolan said. Defense attorneys, he said, may also look into whether Freund was being interviewed as a "witness" or a "suspect." In Illinois, police must also videotape interviews of murder suspects, which was not mentioned in the affidavit. Sworn statements by police to get search warrants, like this one, Nolan said, often include hearsay evidence, that is, statements made by other officers or witnesses. In court, such evidence is often not allowed unless witnesses testify to their own statements or observations. As a defendant, Freund could assert his Fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination to refuse to testify, said Chicago defense attorney and former prosecutor Lori Levin, who also handles cases in which child abuse is alleged. Levin said a common way to get one co-defendant to testify against another is for prosecutors to reach a plea deal, in which the defendant pleads guilty for a lesser sentence in exchange for testifying against the other defendant. Such a scenario could raise issues of credibility against a person who testifies with the reward of leniency, attorneys said. In a sworn statement seeking a search warrant, McHenry County Sheriff's Detective Edwin Maldonado wrote, "Drew's answers to questions surrounding these issues are indicative of deception and dishonesty." Another issue is whether prosecutors will seek to introduce evidence of prior contact between the parents and the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services. The agency took custody of AJ from Cunningham after she gave birth to the boy with opiates in his system. She underwent drug abuse treatment and got her son back more than a year later. There were allegations of neglect against her twice more, including police reports of bruising on AJ and squalid living conditions, but DCFS investigated and ruled the claims were unfounded. "It's a question of whether prosecutors will try to admit any prior allegations to determine intent or motive or modus operandi," Levin said. "The defense will probably try to exclude it, especially in light of the fact that somebody looked at it and did not find sufficient evidence to indicate (that it occurred)." McHenry County prosecutors and police have said they would not comment on the case outside of court. Both parents are being held in the county jail on $5 million bail. Nolan and Levin were at a loss to explain why anyone would allegedly video themselves berating their own beaten son. "We are living in an age where people are recording ... themselves doing anything and everything," Nolan wrote. "What is going through their minds when they are doing it is anybody's guess." Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 BLOOMINGTON Prominent Bloomington attorney Melissa McGrath, 60, passed away on Feb. 14, 2019, at Barnes Jewish Hospital, St. Louis, Mo. A celebration of life is planned for 9 a.m. May 24 at Illinois State University's Brown Ballroom, Bone Student Center. During her legal career, McGrath specialized in discrimination, personal injury, employment and of late family law. She was a graduate of Illinois State University and completed her law degree at Southern Illinois University in Carbondale with honors. She was an intern for Judge James Knecht. Beyond her legal career, McGrath was involved in numerous community organizations and efforts. Before Thomson & Weintraub, she worked for Legal Advocacy Services in Peoria and was a social worker/administrator for Mid Central Community Action. Within the community, she had served on the Bloomington Human Relations Commission, Victim Offender Reconciliation Program, the Human Services Council of McLean County, the Illinois Association of Community Action Agencies, Homes Through Hearts and the Rape Crisis Center of McLean County(now part of the YWCA). She was instrumental in founding the Rape Crisis Center. She was also involved in the alternative news publication the Post-Amerikan, and organized a monthly women's potluck to discuss community issues. She was involved in numerous causes while an ISU student. Im sure plenty of you are here thanks to the hate-click headline, but Im making a serious case based off of Joe Bidens own words. There are three core tenets to Trumpism, and Joe Biden is playing the liberal tunes to them all. Trump loves to make generic platitudes. Hes actually a pretty good salesman when it comes down to the basic nature of the profession. Biden is too. In 2016, Trump hammered away at the notion that trade and immigration had hurt the American worker, and I alone can fix it, yet each and every day we learn that all of Trumps policies to fix it can basically be traced back to his personal bank account. Joe Biden is similarly deceptive about what his actual plans are, as he recently went light on policy, heavy on emotion to Politico, saying I dont have time to completely lay out all the details on his health care plan. Vox noted that Biden has really not told anyone what he thinks about health care (while his record proves he is almost surely very anti-single payer). Meanwhile, Elizabeth Warren is pumping out detailed, comprehensive policy damn-near every single day, so you have to wonder what Biden has been doing with his time (attending fundraisers with the health insurance industry, Comcast, and plenty of GOP donors). Speaking of Elizabeth Warren knowing lots about policy and Joe Biden knowing diddly squat about what does and does not actually work, lets take a trip back to 2005. I spent a year working in the merchant services industry, I can promise you that the credit card companies are not the good guys here. Elizabeth Warren is right, history proves that Joe Biden is on the side of the credit card companies, and he is still taking their money. While Biden is not like Trump in outright bumbling fraud (and thanks to the New York Times, weve learned that literally no one is), the bipartisan kumbaya centrism he preaches has a convenient habit of consistently falling in line with the agenda of the major donors in both parties. There is a vast generational split in Democratic politics. Poll after poll proves that millennials and Gen Z are far more liberal than our older cohorts. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez could even be considered something of a centrist in the context of your average millennials politics. We simply look at the political system through a fundamentally different lens than our parents and grandparents do, as demonstrated by this stark contrast in a recent poll question from Quinnipiac about what we all really want in a politician: If you had to choose, which is more important in a presidential candidate: a candidate who you think would be a great leader, or a candidate who you think has great policy ideas?* Age 18-34: 38% great leader 54% policy Age 35-49: 57% great leader 39% policy Age 50-64: 55% great leader 39% policy Age 65+: 54% great leader 38% policy *all generalizations about the over and under-35 crowd made from here on out are made acknowledging that these are nowhere close to defining majoritiesbut they are consistentuntil theyre notthats significant. Biden believes that Trump is not the Republican Party (according to Gallup, 91% of Republicans currently approve of Trump), and history will treat this administrations time as an aberration (a new study confirmedagainthat sexist and racist resentment, not economic attitudes, was the main cause of Obama counties in Iowa shifting to Trump in 2016). Trump is not an aberration, and history has actually proven he is the logical conclusion of the Republican Partys actions and stated intentions since at least the days of Richard Nixon. Like Trumpism, Bidenism is rejecting reality in favor of an idyllic period that never existed. The under-35 crowd is dragging policy to the center of the Democratic debate, and the fact that Elizabeth Warren cannot gain much traction gives you something of an idea about how well policy plays amongst the over-35 crowd. Its difficult to see polling on policy flipped like that as anything but a rebuke of previous generations (and The West Wing). That naturally creates resentment. No one likes to hear that people think theyre wrong. The over-35 crowd largely values an amorphous definition of leadership over tangible policy mattershoping that the lack of detail in their plan will be made up for by the wisdom of someone definitely not being treated like a demigodand their children are mostly rejecting their Biden-esque politics for something more resembling Bernie Sanders. The so-called personality cult around Bernie is an exercise in psychological projection, given that is how Democrats have mostly chosen their candidates throughout the entirety of the under-35 crowds lifetimes. If Bernie came out tomorrow and said I love billionaires and insurance companies, his millennial support would collapse in an instant. Biden has said horrible things in the past that have been reintroduced back in to the news cycle, and his support has only gone up since. How Trumpian. For example: Read the following Biden quotes in Trumps voice. You can see Bidens fantasy world take shape (and the biases which informed it) in this shocking answer in 2007 to a question about why schools in Iowa are performing better than those in Washington D.C.: Theres less than one percent of the population of Iowa that is African American. There is probably less than four of five percent that are minorities. What is in Washington? So look, it goes back to what you start off with, what youre dealing with. Before the Biden-defenders tell me how that quote is actually sympathetic towards the victims of the inherently white supremacist American infrastructure which has systematically impoverished and subjugated black Americans throughout this country for centuries, read this 2006 quote and try to explain how the racial stereotyping baked into it is any different from his quote about Washington D.C. schools: You cannot go into a 7-11 or a Dunkin Donuts unless you have a slight Indian accent. Oh, Im not joking. Or this one from the 2008 presidential campaign while talking about then-candidate Obama: I mean, you got the first mainstream African-American who is articulate and bright and clean and a nice-looking guy. Or this at the All-American Presidential Forum in 2007. Like Trump, Joe Bidens political brand has always been tinted with racial resentment, which is probably why the most famed racist of the 20th century Congress asked Biden to speak at his funeral. This is really what much of the Biden appeal is about. Its not just a return to a more comfortable time, but a rejection of our current era as well. Its not just Trump that the Biden ethos opposesas you will see in my final Biden video below that is sure to be interpreted differently by different generations. At its core, all politics is primal, as we are limited by the confines of our animalistic nature. Every generation has expressed its resentment towards generational change through its politics (back in my day, etc), and there is no doubt in my mind that when millennials and Gen Z reach our older years, we will also curse the youthsdoing kickflips and wheelies or whatever on their hoverboards while flying above the scorched, unusable farm land that used to be known as the Midwest, all while making a living by throwing parties in underwater Miamimeanwhile, we will all still be texting each other, pining for a simpler time where memes were a widely-understood form of conversation. Damn Xillennails. The last 40 years have conditioned folks to think of politics as a morality playwhere we can create a metaphor for the America we imagine by simply banding together for Common Sense Bipartisan Solutions. Thats a fantasy, no different from Trumps promise to Make America Great Again (Medicare, the Civil Rights Act and the New Deal were all shoved down an intransigent oppositions throat by a liberal majority in Congresstheir passage was anything but bipartisan). Politics is a battle for power and resources, pure and simple. Thats what history tells us time and time again. Thats why we find ourselves in a moment where Republicans have most of the power and resources, because they understand this fact far better than Biden-era Democrats do. Younger folks have internalized this more fatalistic and cynical view of the political system embraced by the GOP, as our adolescence was defined by the Iraq War and the 2008 financial crisis where no major decision-makers were put in jail for a Vietnam-like debacle and an event that wiped out at least 40% of middle class wealth. There is no justice, only power, therefore the only justice we will ever get is through taking power. Plus, we simply just dont trust the systemnor the systems allies like Joe Biden. Folks like me graduated college into the worst job market since before Joe Biden was born, and yet, he said this last year while hawking his book: In 2016, two years before Joe Biden told millennials that he has no empathy for us, Stanford released a study which found that young people entering the workforce today are far less likely to earn more than their parents when compared to children born two generations before them. $&#% Joe Biden Joe Biden is clearly resentful of a new age which demands he answer for his crimes of a less civilized time. No one running for office utters such a demonstrative phrase in public like I have no empathy unless they mean it. This is Bidens appeal: screw the complaining young folkstheyve got it easyus boomers had it real tough going to college while working 10 hours a week at the library to pay for it, just before the government threw a house at us at age 24 as we entered the economy during one of the most robust periods of wage growth in recent U.S. history. Those were the truly difficult yearsbesides, its not like these kids have to deal with the end of the world or anything. While this is a column clearly defined by righteous generational outrage towards Bidens righteous generational outrage, I must point something out: Trump won. Biden can win too. In fact, Biden should win (I dont think he will, but I do admit that I am getting a bit nervous that my take will blow up in my face). Biden is leading the polls by a wide margin right now. He has better name recognition than anyone (the #1 determinant of electoral success in a country with a 90% reelection rate for a Congress with about a 20% approval rating) largely thanks to the fact that he stood next to the most popular politician in America for eight years in a row. He has the support of major Democratic donors and institutions, as well as a diverse base of supporters. But just because he can win doesnt mean hes the best candidatelots of these candidates can beat Trump. Democrats should give everyone a chance before falling into the electability trap that almost always leads us in the direction of a boring old white man. In 2016, the Democratic Party lost to Donald freaking Trumpand so we should do anything but repeat what we did last timeand repeating the Clinton campaigns playbook is basically Bidens entire sales pitch. No one who has their lives together loses to a second-tier carnival barker who cant stop talking about how badly he wants to date his daughter. The only logical conclusion you could arrive at the day after Trumps election is that the Democratic Party is the most pathetic mainstream political party in the western world, and it has been incredibly encouraging watching most of us on the left learn so quickly from our mistakes in 2016, empower our grassroots, then win one of the biggest midterm victories in U.S. history in 2018. I mean, who loses to Donald Trump? Most of the infrastructure supporting Joe Biden, thats who. Jacob Weindling is a staff writer for Paste politics. Follow him on Twitter at @Jakeweindling. From NBC News: In a highly unusual move, National Security Adviser John Bolton convened a meeting at CIA headquarters last week with the Trump administrations top intelligence, diplomatic and military advisers to discuss Iran, according to six current U.S. officials. The meeting was held at 7:00 a.m. on Monday, April 29, and included CIA Director Gina Haspel, Acting Defense Secretary Patrick Shanahan, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Joe Dunford, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, and Director of National Intelligence Dan Coats, five of the officials said. We dont know exactly what was discussed, but we do know that most national security meetings are held at the White House, and that past meetings at CIA headquarters were held to go over highly sensitive covert actions or to plan for upcoming ones. As Paste covered last year, war is John Boltons entire modus operandi, and he has written op-eds in just the last four years advocating for offensive actions against both Iran and North Korea. At the time, Jake Weindling wrote that, Bolton is obsessed with Iran and will seemingly stop at nothing to quench his bloodthirsty lust. And not long after the April 29 meeting at the CIA, Bolton announced that we were sending a bomber squadron to the Persian Gulf and brayed about using unrelenting force against Iran (in retaliation for a hypothetical attack). Meanwhile, U.S. sanctions, the latest of which were announced this week, are undoubtedly hurting Iran, making waror some war-like actioneven more likely. Quotes from Democrat Senators paint a clear picture of whats happening: Im deeply worried that the Trump administration is leading us toward an unnecessary war with Iran, Sen. Tim Kaine of Virginia, a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, said on Tuesday. Trumps Iran strategy is blind escalation, said Sen. Chris Murphy of Connecticut, who sits on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. There is no endgame. No overriding strategy. No way out. Its just escalation for the sake of escalation. They can read which way the wind blows as well as anyone else, and its beyond dangerous that someone like Boltonwho pushed the Iraq War from the beginning and is unapologetic about the ensuing disaster, and who continues to antagonize for regime change all over the worldnow serves as Trumps National Security Advisor. At this point, itll be a miracle if we dont go to war. Its a weird time for political satire. Every comedian heard the same bullshit after the election, Trump is going to be gold for you. But it turns out mining comedy from an administration that tries to ban Muslims and separates children from their parents is hard as hell. You cant wink and nudge at fascism. Perhaps this is why the once mighty Daily Show no longer has the viral pull it once did. Trever Noahs version of the show is a kinder, gentler version than we had during the Obama and Bush eras, but its easy to wonder if even Jon Stewart would be struggling. Theres nothing cute about the problems we face. Which is why I was surprised by how much I loved Jordan Kleppers new eponymously titled documentary series on Comedy Central. After watching the first three episodes of Klepper its easy to imagine the network has a hit on their hands. Drawing from the documentary format Vice has turned into a massively successful video empire, Klepper is more about stories than jokes. Each week Klepper visits a part of the country where people are fighting for change. We meet vets in Texas who use pro-wrestling as a treatment for PTSD. He embeds with environmental activists in Louisiana protesting an oil pipeline and talks to oil workers who live nearby. And, in a particularly brutal episode, Klepper visits undocumented DREAMers in Georgia who are fighting for the right to access public colleges. The biggest hurdle Klepper faces is its hosts previous Comedy Central show, The Opposition with Jordan Klepper. Even as a fan of Kleppers work on The Daily Show, The Opposition burned a lot of goodwill. It was smug without ever digging deep enough into the stories it covered to be interesting. More importantly, in an era of fake news, his character couldnt compete. How do you make parody comedy news when the reality TV show president has ties to Alex Jones? Klepper sidesteps this problem by dropping the fake conspiracy act in favor of letting the host be exactly what he is; a privileged, baby soft comedian used to the comforts of TV. Starting from the standpoint of privilege acts as a unifying force in each episode. Whether talking to veterans haunted by the war, environmental activists who think hes a coward, or DREAMers fighting to stay in the only country they know, Klepper is almost an annoyance to the subjects at first. Because hes being Jordan Klepper and not the character of Jordan Klepper we get to see stories evolve in ways comedy news has never explored. Pro-wrestling is easy to look down on, but once you experience the community of amateur wrestling its impossible to write off. The fake combat may seem silly at first, but our host learns to respect it when hes slammed into the mat. Sure, the episode uses the crowd-pleasing idea of pro-wrestling troops as a back door to discuss the VA. But the real story is always the three soldiers who find wrestling as a way of fighting a battle at him with themselves. Also, as a pro-wrestling fan, watching one of the vets in full make-up turn heel (wrestling for bad guy) at a show was magic. First, he asks the crowd, Where my veterans at? When everyone cheers he points at a section of the crowd and yells, Air Force sit down! You dont count. Everyone boos and the bad guy gets obliterated to chants USA! USA! If you cant find the joy in it, youre dead inside. The other two episodes are significantly more somber, but because of the way they unfold, Im hesitant to give away many details. For all the jokes about people almost getting their balls shot off, Jordan sneaking snacks, and how hes just a comedian Klepper is an actual documentary series. Part of the fun is watching the host out of his element, especially in the episodes that feature protests. Watching a woman who risks her life to protest an oil pipeline call Klepper a coward to his face is jarring, even if shes not doing it to be mean. This is serious, and regularly you get the impression that the subjects are only letting the cameras in because these are the only cameras that will watch. Even when theyre welcoming, theyre cautious. In both the second and third episodes the subjects ask that cameras be turned off to discuss security. This isnt comedy for them. Its life or death for their community or for their citizenship. At no point did I anticipate a comedy series showing the Georgia Board of Regents laughing in the face of praying ministers asking God to soften their hearts towards undocumented immigrants. It was surprising, but not as remarkable as the fact that Klepper is funny. In some regards, Klepper is the straight man of the series, even though hes making constant jokes. Hes warm during the interviews and casually hilarious. But the biggest laughs often come from his subjects personal stories or wry observations about his privilege. These are fascinating people struggling through situations that seem unbelievable in our world of prosperity. Sometimes youll find yourself wincing after you stop laughing at the weight of their gallows humor settles. If youve ever binge-watched Vice documentaries on YouTube, theres a good chance Klepper is about to be your new favorite show. While it never forgets to be funny, we were truly impressed at its willingness not to be at times. Satirical news may not work anymore, but earnest stories about struggling people are timeless. We cant wait to see what they do next. Klepper premieres on Comedy Central tonight, May 9, 2019, at 10:30 p.m. John-Michael Bond is Pastes assistant comedy editor. Hes on Twitter @BondJohnBond. On Wednesday night, the president of the United States shook off a supporters cry to shoot incoming migrants and asylum seekers with little more than a one-liner and a cheeky grin. Thats where were at in 2019. The exchange took place at a Trump rally in Panama City Beach, Fla., The Daily Beast reports. Trump claimed that 15,000 people are marching up to the border, which is guarded by only two or three border security people who are brave. Dont forget, we dont let them and we cant let them use weapons. We cant. Other countries do. We cant. I would never do that, Trump said, before asking in reference to immigrants, How do you stop these people? One attendee yelled shoot em in response, prompting a chuckle and a shake of the head from our commander-in-chief as the rest of the crowd laughed. Thats only in the panhandle you can get away with that statement, folks. Only in the panhandle! Trump said, smiling. Watch for yourself below. That interaction is exactly how Trumps white supremacy works. He lets bigots get away with violent statements like that by joking, shrugging it off and, in some ways, emphasizing the jingoistic nature of the proposal by tying it back to where the supporters are from. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez astutely pointed out back in March that the subtext of Trumps attitude towards racism is [If] you engage in violent acts of white supremacy, I will look the other way. Trumps comments at the Panama City Beach rally echo what he said on Sean Hannitys program in March about shooting immigrants being very effective, but not endorsing their murder outright: Now we are capturing these people. We are getting them but we dont do it like other countries. Other countries stand there with machine guns, ready to fire. We cant do that and I wouldnt want to do that, okay? Its a very effective way of doing it but I wouldnt want to do it. We cant do it. Heres the President of the United States saying he isnt going to shoot undocumented immigrants but shooting undocumented immigrants would be very effective pic.twitter.com/wWg2ThaP56 Andrew Lawrence (@ndrew_lawrence) March 28, 2019 The scourge of white supremacy is not a uniquely American phenomenon, but Trump sure is doing his best to make it a core part of his vision for our country. Microsofts latest Windows 10 Build 18894 looks like it will at least partially address one of the issues we found within the May 2019 Update: the slow, legacy File Explorer search option. Windows 10 Build 18894, part of next years 20H1 release, contains a File Explorer search experience powered by Windows Search. Microsoft said File Explorer will now automatically suggest frequently-used files as you begin typing in the drop-down box. Microsoft set out to revamp search within the Windows 10 May 2019 Update, separating the traditional search box from the Cortana digital assistant. While our review of the May 2019 Update questioned whether that was a step forward, theres one improvement we cheered: Its fast. In part, thats because of a new Windows Search indexer that maps your hard drive in the background, then surfaces results almost instantly. Microsofts build notes call out the new File Explorer search functions integration with OneDrive, and dont explicitly call out the speed of the experience. (We havent yet downloaded the new build, so we cant vouch for how quickly search results are surfaced.) Still, its a positive step forward, even if you may not see it right away. The new Search experience will be pushed to a small percentage of users who download Build 18894, and expanded later on. Microsoft noted that downloading this build will disable the Your Phone app because of an OS bug. Microsoft also has yet to fix an issue with older versions of anti-cheat software, which can crash your PC. Both are bugs that Microsofts still working to fix. What this means for you: If youre an old-school PC user, you probably use File Explorer to search for files. (And if youre like me, you use the search box to launch apps.) File Explorer, however, is dog-slow. Any improvements will be welcomed. WILLIAMSPORT A professional photographer from New York City has admitted sending sexually explicit material to a 16-year-old Milton boy. Leonard Maurice Lewis, 58, pleaded guilty in U.S. Middle District Court Wednesday to a charge of obscene visual representation of sexual abuse of a child. He admitted between August 2014 and February 2017 he sent pictures of his genitals to the boy and photo-shopped the teens picture onto sexual photos of nude males. Assistant U.S. Attorney Geoffrey MacArthur detailed explicit messages he sent along with information in 2017 on how the teen could to travel by bus to New York City. The indictment alleged Lewis was trying to entice the boy to travel to New York City to engage in sex with him. Lewis, in a court filing before he accepted the plea agreement, claimed it was the boys desire to travel to New York because he wanted to video the sexual interaction to make money on line. Lewis sent several packages to the boy including one in 2017 whose contents, according to MacArthur, included a homemade brownie containing marijuana. The charge to which Lewis pleaded guilty has a five-year mandatory prison term and a 20-year maximum. He remains detained pending sentencing. A unique aspect of the case was a ruling last year by Judge Matthew W. Brann that law enforcement does not have an obligation to tell a suspect he or she has been charged before reading them their Miranda rights. Lewis argued culpable statements he made in his New York City apartment in August 2017 to a postal inspector should be suppressed but he was not told he had been indicted. He had waived his right to self-incrimination and having a lawyer present. SUNBURY It took a Northumberland County jury less than 25 minutes to find two people who claim to be sovereign citizens not subject to state laws guilty in absentia of charges stemming from their eviction from their former home. The two, identified as John and Jane Doe in court documents because they have refused to be fingerprinted to confirm their identities, did not participate in their brief trial because they contend the court had no jurisdiction. John Doe, who is Kevin Gilgeours of Queens, N.Y., walked out of the courtroom after objecting to the proceeding saying he no longer will continue with this kangaroo court He and Jane Doe, who is Kathleen Claxton of Brooklyn, N.Y., were handcuffed and shackled while in the courtroom and were escorted by deputy sheriffs. Judge Charles H. Saylor had addressed the jury of six men and six women and Assistant District Attorney Michael Finn was about to give his opening statement when Gilgeours interrupted. Theres no justice here, he said, claiming there was no evidence against them and they were being unlawfully imprisoned. We want to be released, Claxton said before she left the courtroom. She said she was ready to sign bail papers but Saylor said to wait until after the trial. After being found guilty of criminal trespass, endangering the welfare of a child, resisting arrest, disorderly conduct and creating a public nuisance, the judge modified their bail from unsecured to $10,000. He noted they are facing several years in prison and said he wants to ensure they would appear for sentencing. Before dismissing the jurors, Saylor apologized to them for some of their experience in reference to the outburst by the defendants. He had reminded them before they began deliberating they should not be adversely influenced by the defendants decisions not to testify. The court had appointed standby counsel for the defendants but those lawyers left the courtroom after the couple did, so there was no cross-examination of witnesses. The charges stemming from an incident Aug. 29 at a house in Mount Carmel Twp. that the couple lost through a tax sale. Police went to the house after the new owner complained someone was living there. Chief Brian J. Hollenbush and Officer Patrick McAndrew testified the couple refused to leave, claimed the officers did not have jurisdiction and barricaded the door. Gilgeours took a video out a window and Saxton yelled from a second-floor window about the lack of jurisdiction, they said. Entry was gained after the front door was taken off its hinges, they said. Pepper spray was shot through a window and a Taser deployed against Gilgeours, McAndrew said. They and other witnesses described deplorable conditions in the house, which had no power or running water. Rain water collected in buckets was used for bathing and to flush the toilet, they said. There was testimony the house had twice been posted as unfit for human habitation but the placards had been removed. The couples five-year-old daughter, found upstairs, refused to cooperate as did the parents, they said. Children and Youth Services placed the girl with family members in New York. Gilgeours and Saxton had been escorted from the courtroom Monday due to their outbursts during jury selection. They have been in jail since their arrest refusing to sign paperwork that would have allowed their release. When police finally found a 16-year-old girl missing from Kentucky inside the apartment of a Pennsylvania man, she was naked, but alive. In fact, the girl said she and the 56-year-old man who drove to Kentucky to get her after meeting her on Instagram planned to get married, police tell WTAE-TV in Pittsburgh. In the end, the manager of the apartment building in Glassport, Pa., helped police find the missing girl, providing a video showing her with a male resident, WTAE reports. But the first time police searched the apartment of Rory Shelton earlier this month, they did not find the missing girl. The apartment manager is credited with helping police and providing the video on May 3. And when police returned to the mans apartment on May 7, they found the girl. According to a criminal complaint, Shelton told investigators he was corresponding with the girl on Instagram, rented a car and drove to Paducah, Kentucky, arriving at the girls home on May 2. Police say the girl was wearing a court-ordered ankle bracelet, which Shelton cut off with scissors and then drove her back to Glassport, Pa., WTAE writes. (Story continues below) Police: Glassport man arrested after missing teen from Kentucky found in his apartment https://t.co/1WIqS8bpMJ pic.twitter.com/ystFiKPAUB WTAE-TV Pittsburgh (@WTAE) May 8, 2019 Shelton now faces a felony count of interference with custody of children, along with a misdemeanor obstruction charge, WTAE reports. Another Aldi is expected to open in central Pennsylvania next week. The new Aldi will open next Thursday in 12,000 square feet of space in a former Kmart space next to an At Home superstore at 1884 Fruitville Pike, Manheim Township according to a LancasterOnline report. The discount grocer is relocating from the Golden Triangle shopping center at 1302 Lititz Pike, the report said. A new Aldi opened at 4702 Jonestown Road in Lower Paxton Township in August. Aldi is also planning to open a store at the property of the former Fire Mountain restaurant in Silver Spring Township at 6476 Carlisle Pike. Aldi also plans to open a store on Rohrerstown Road in Lime Spring Square in Lancaster County in the summer, according to Lancaster Online. The Albrecht family opened the first Aldi store opened in 1961 in Germany. The first U.S. store opened in 1976. The company has stores across 35 states. --Business Buzz --Sign up for PennLives newsletters A group of Mechanicsburg high school students have the chance to attend a worldwide competition later this month. But they need some financial help to do so. The Mechanicsburg Odyssey of the Mind Team placed second in the Pennsylvania State Tournament back in April, qualifying them to go on to the Odyssey world finals in East Lansing, Michigan, on May 22-25. More than 850 teams from across the United States and other countries are expected to compete in this final round. Odyssey of the Mind is an international creative problem-solving program that encourages students in kindergarten through college to solve a pre-determined problem and present their solution as a team at a competition. It often incorporates elements of drama, design, construction and science. For the Pa. State Tournament, held on April 6, teams were required to build a structure made from balsa wood and glue that weighed no more than fifteen grams, but would be able to hold as much stacked weight as possible before being crushed. This years theme -- carnival -- added an extra twist: The teams had to devise a carnival game that could throw the structure a distance of three to ten feet as well as clear a two foot bar. The Mechanicsburg team created a nightmare-themed carnival and managed to fling their structure ten feet and hold about 875 pounds before giving way. You can see their presentation in the YouTube video below. In order to offset registration fees and travel costs to the Worlds Finals Competition, the team has set up a GoFundMe page and is hoping to reach a funding goal of $10,000. As of this writing, they have so far received about $210. City of Brotherly Love? More like Motherly Love. Philadelphia is the birthplace for Mothers Day, the national holiday honoring mothers for the daily sacrifices they make for their families. Its held on the second Sunday of every month and falls on May 12 this year. The holiday was created in 1908 by Anna Jarvis, who was living in Philadelphia. She was inspired by her own mother, Ann Jarvis, who created Mothers Day Work Clubs in the 1850s. These clubs were devoted to public health. The elder Jarvis was also famous for providing medical aid, food and clothing to soldiers on both sides during the Civil War. When Ann Jarvis died on May 5, 1905, her daughter, Anna, wanted something to commemorate her mother and mothers everywhere. Three years later, that something turned out to be the first ever Mothers Day observance. It was held on May 10, 1908 in West Virginia, which is where Jarvis mother was from. Jarvis did not attend the event, although she did send over 500 white carnations for the occasion. Jarvis would continually associate carnations with Mothers Day. In addition to being her own mothers favorite flower, the white flower also symbolized the pure nature of a mothers love. That same day, Jarvis held another Mothers Day event in Philadelphia at the Wanamaker Department Store (now Macys Center City). Jarvis embarked on a campaign to get the holiday recognized nationwide, eventually succeeding in 1914. President Woodrow Wilson officially made Mothers Day a national holiday, writing that it was a public expression of our love and reverence for the mothers of our country. As time went on, the holiday became commercialized. This upset Jarvis who maintained it should be about honoring ones mother -- not buying gifts, cards or spending money. She famously quipped: A printed card means nothing except that you are too lazy to write to the woman who's done more for you than anyone in the world. While the holiday has decidedly become a commercial affair, the sentiment around it is still strong. Its still a celebration of mothers everywhere and a chance to say thank you for all of their hard work and love. Julia Hatmaker may be reached at jhatmaker@pennlive.com. Follow her on Twitter @JuliaHatmaker. Start your day in the know by signing up for our newsletter, Good Morning, Pennsylvania. Pennsylvanias Colonial Legislature, from 1681 to 1729, met where they could find space, according to the Pennsylvania Capitol Preservation Committee. In 1729, lawmakers appropriated money to build a state house in Philadelphia Independence Hall. As the building got crowded the state and national legislatures met there - the state Capitol then moved to Lancaster in 1799, according to the preservation committee. However, John Harris Jr. had donated land for a new state Capitol in Harrisburg and thus in 1812, the state government moved there. Architect Stephen Hills was chosen to construct the buildings. From 1812 to 1822, the state government met in the old Dauphin County Courthouse, according to the preservation committee. The building was dedicated on Jan. 2, 1822. Over the years, additions and alterations were made. The Pennsylvania Capitol in Harrisburg burns on Feb. 2, 1897. (Source unknown) Then, on Feb. 2, 1897, it was destroyed by a fire in the middle of a snowstorm. According to a 2001 story in The Patriot-News, Capitol workers had smelled smoke on that morning. Eventually, a Senate Library employee discovered that the interior walls were on fire after prying a baseboard loose in the lieutenant governors office. Onlookers watching fire consume the Pennsylvania Capitol in 1897. (Source unknown) At the time, the entire building was heated by fireplaces. The Legislature temporarily met in Grace Methodist Episcopal Church, Fire consumes the Pennsylvania Capitol in Harrisburg during a snowstorm, Feb. 2, 1897. (Source unknown) Lawmakers decided to clear the rubble and build a new Capitol. Henry Ives Cobb was hired to create it and $500,000 was earmarked for the project. But, the money ran out before the building was finished. The shell was provided and it was functional but not complete. The Pennsylvania Capitol in Harrisburg after it was ravaged by a fire, Feb. 2, 1897. (Source unknown) In 1901 the Legislature hired Joseph M. Huston after a competition to finish the building. Construction started in 1902 and the Capitol was dedicated in October 1906. President Theodore Roosevelt attended and said, It is the handsomest State Capitol I have ever seen. President Theodore Roosevelt spoke at the dedication of the new Capitol in October 1906. (The State Museum) The Pennsylvania Capitol partially finished. Henry Ives Cobb was the architect for the project but not enough money was appropriated to finish it. By 1899 the walls were raised and a temporary roof installed. (Photo from the State Museum) The Italian Renaissance building features a dome styled after St. Peters Basilica in Rome. The Grand Staircase is patterned after the one in the Paris Grand Opera House. The dome is topped with a 13-foot, 6-inch statue of a woman holding a mace. She is named Commonwealth, is made of bronze and weighs three tons. She stands on a 4-foot globe on a 19-inch cast-iron pedestal. The 950,000-square-foot East Wing addition along Commonwealth Avenue was completed in 1986. The Pennsylvania Capitol in Harrisburg after Joseph Huston was awarded the contract to finish the project. (Photo from the State Museum) The original drawing for the Pennsylvania Capitol in Harrisburg by architect Henry Ives Cobb. (Source unknown) Good Morning, Pennsylvania Sign up now for Good Morning, Pennsylvania, and get the most important headlines delivered free to your inbox by 6 a.m. Monday-Friday. MOUNT HOLLY, N.J. (AP) A New Jersey man was indicted on charges stemming from his role in fabricating a feel-good story about a homeless man rescuing a woman from the side of a highway in order to scam online donors out of $400,000 in contributions, prosecutors said Wednesday. Burlington County Prosecutor Scott Coffina said 39-year-old Mark DAmico, of Florence, was indicted on six separate charges related to the scheme. A message has been left with D'Amico's attorney for comment. Johnny Bobbitt, a homeless military veteran, and Katelyn McClure pleaded guilty in exchange for their cooperation with authorities. McClure and Bobbitt have entered into plea deals. Bobbitt has been sentenced to five-year special probation in state Drug Court, with the possibility of five years in prison if he cant abide by the requirements. He has also pleaded guilty in federal court to conspiracy to commit money laundering, but no sentencing date has been set. McClure, who used to live with DAmico, also pleaded guilty in federal and state court. She could spend between 27 months and four years in prison in concurrent sentences. McClure must also testify against D'Amico. He has earlier denied wrongdoing. In this Nov. 17, 2017, file photo, Johnny Bobbitt Jr., left, Kate McClure, right, and McClure's boyfriend Mark D'Amico pose at a Citgo station in Philadelphia. (Elizabeth Robertson/The Philadelphia Inquirer via AP) Authorities say the trio concocted the story that Bobbitt rescued McClure, D'Amico's then-girlfriend, from the side of a Philadelphia interstate in 2017 to enrich themselves. Prosecutors say the three split the money and spent lavishly, including on a BMW, designer bags and trips to Las Vegas and elsewhere. The group solicited donations through GoFundMe, purportedly to help Bobbitt, and got significant attention with a media blitz that included posing for photos together, revisiting the spot where they claimed they first met, and appearing on "Good Morning America." Johnny Bobbitt with Kate McClure and Mark DAmico in happier times. In all, more than 14,000 people contributed. Prosecutors say the scheme "was designed to pull at the heartstrings of caring, trusting individuals." GoFundMe says it has refunded the money. DAmico has not been charged in federal court. HIGHLANDS RANCH, Colo. (AP) When a gunman burst into his high school classroom, Kendrick Castillo did not hesitate. The 18-year-old immediately charged, pinning the attacker to the wall before Castillo was fatally shot protecting classmates, witnesses said. As he charged, so did two other students. One of them, Brendan Bialy, wrestled the gun from the shooter's hand and the students subdued him. A second shooter was captured by an armed security guard. Authorities said these acts of bravery helped minimize the bloodshed from Tuesdays attack, which also wounded eight people. "We're going to hear about very heroic things that have taken place at the school," Douglas County Sheriff Tony Spurlock said Wednesday. The attackers were identified by law enforcement officials as 18-year-old Devon Erickson and a 16-year-old who prosecutors identified as Maya McKinney but whose attorney said uses male pronouns and the name Alec. The two allegedly walked into the STEM School Highlands Ranch through an entrance without metal detectors and opened fire in two classrooms. Because the attack happened only miles from Columbine High School and just weeks after the shooting's 20th anniversary, questions quickly arose about whether it was inspired by the 1999 massacre. But investigators offered no immediate motive. Castillo sprang into action against the shooter "and immediately was on top of him with complete disregard for his own safety," said Bialy, a close friend of Castillo's who has signed up to join the Marines. A member of the school's robotics club and a relentless tinkerer, Castillo had an infectious smile and gentle sense of humor, according to friends. He worked part-time at a local manufacturing company that had offered him a job after an internship because he was such a standout employee. "To find he went down as a hero, I'm not surprised. That's exactly who Kendrick was," said Rachel Short, president of the company, Baccara. RETRANSMIT WITH ALTERNATE CROP Officials guide students off a bus and into a recreation center where they were reunited with their parents after a shooting at a suburban Denver middle school Tuesday, May 7, 2019, in Highlands Ranch, Colo. (AP Photo/David Zalubowski)AP Cecilia Bedard, 19, had known Castillo since elementary school and said he was always friendly, modest and excited to help people. He made a point of always joining his father at Knights of Columbus fundraisers and bingo nights. "He was amazing," Bedard said. "He was honestly the sweetest kid I ever met. Never said a mean joke." Bialy smiled as he recounted the struggle with the shooter to reporters, saying that he wanted to focus on the positive. "They completely and utterly failed in a matter of half a minute," he said of the attackers. "What I saw yesterday was the absolute best of people," he added. Bialy would not identify the third student who helped subdue the gunman, but the family of Jason Jones put out a statement saying he was shot twice while disarming one of the attackers. The security guard who detained the second armed suspect was employed by Boss High Level Protection, a company started by a former SWAT team leader who responded to the Columbine shooting. The owner, Grant Whitus, told The Associated Press the security guard is a former Marine who ran to the area of the shootings and confronted one of the armed students in a hallway. The guard drew his weapon and apprehended the person, Whitus said. "He doesn't even realize how many lives he saved by stopping a school shooting," Whitus said. Both suspects were students at the school, and they were not previously known to authorities, Spurlock said. Erickson made his first court appearance Wednesday and kept his head down. His black hair, streaked with purple dye, covered his face as he nodded in response to most of District Court Judge Theresa Slade's questions. At one point, the judge requested a verbal answer to whether he had any questions about the proceedings. Erickson simply replied "No." McKinney, who has a short brown haircut, made eye contact with the judge and answered questions in a clear but quiet voice, saying "Yes, your honor" and "No, your honor." District attorney George Brauchler said he has not decided whether to file adult charges but added that McKinney is old enough to be charged as an adult without a judge's review. Formal charges were expected to be filed by Friday. Brauchler said he could not discuss any motive or weapons used in the attack. A message left at a phone number listed for Erickson's home was not immediately returned. Josh Dutton, 18, said he was close friends with Erickson in middle school but had not seen him for four years while attending a different high school. On Sunday, he spotted Erickson at a local light rail station and said he was shocked at how much his friend had changed. Douglas County, Colo., Sheriffs Department vehicles block the road to the STEM School Highlands Ranch after a shooting at the public charter school Tuesday, May 7, 2019, in Highlands Ranch, Colo. (AP Photo/David Zalubowski)AP Erickson wore all black and was significantly thinner and did not seem interested in talking. "He said he'd just turned 18 and he owned rifles," Dutton said. The shooting took place exactly a week after a gunman killed two students and wounded four at the University of North Carolina-Charlotte. In that case as well, one of the fatalities was a student who charged the attacker. The Colorado attack unfolded came nearly three weeks after neighboring Littleton marked the anniversary of the Columbine attack that killed 13 people. The two schools are separated by about 7 miles (11 kilometers) in adjacent communities south of Denver. Brauchler said the community remains resilient in the face of multiple shootings, including Columbine, the 2012 theater shooting in the Denver suburb of Aurora and the 2013 shooting at Arapahoe High School. The attacks are aberrant acts although they might seem otherwise to the rest of the world, he said. Who we are is a kind, compassionate, caring people, and this does not define us. Felony riot charges have been filed against 10 people after a brawl in Lancaster City led to a stabbing that left one woman with lacerations on her arms, hands and torso, according to local police. At least four other people involved in the fight sought treatment for injuries at an area hospital, police said. In a Thursday news release, Lancaster police announced the arrests, which are related to a reported April 28 brawl on the first block of Green Street. Police were called to that location about 1:52 a.m., when a large fight was reported, according to the release. Before officers arrived, they also were told that a person suffering from stab wounds was reported in the area of Chester Street and Pershing Avenue, police said. At the intersection, police found a woman with lacerations on her arms, hands and torso, according to the release, which notes that the victim was transported to an area hospital to be treated for her injuries. In late April, police listed her medical condition as serious but stable. Officers responding to the Green Street location found signs that a fight had occurred there, police said. Four other people three women and a teenager involved in the fight also were treated at an area hospital, where they were interviewed by police, according to the release. Through those interviews, police said they learned that the brawl was not a random act, and those involved in the fight knew each other. Late last week, police announced that three people a woman and two teenagers had been charged in connection to the fight. On Thursday, police announced another six woman and one man had been charged. The suspects charged in the brawl can be seen below: Elyse C. Maisonet and Tiara Angelique Adonetto Tiara Angelique Adonetto, 17, of Lancaster is charged as an adult, according to Lancaster police. She faces felony charges of aggravated assault, riot and criminal conspiracy. Police said Adonetto stabbed a woman during the fight. Elyse C. Maisonet, 35, of Lancaster faces felony charges of riot and criminal conspiracy, as well as a misdemeanor charge of corruption of minors. A 15-year-old juvenile also has been charged through Lancaster County Juvenile Probation, police said. The juvenile faces felony charges of riot, criminal conspiracy and aggravated assault, as well as misdemeanor charges of simple assault and terroristic threats. Police said the juvenile pistol whipped two people and pointed a gun at another. Veronica Cruz, Nazerai Weller, Mykeala Rivera, and Marlaina Berligeri Veronica Cruz, 29, of Lancaster faces felony charges of riot and criminal conspiracy. Nazerai Weller, 18, of Lancaster faces felony charges of riot and criminal conspiracy. Mykeala Rivera, 20, of Columbia faces felony charges of riot and criminal conspiracy. Marlaina Berligeri, 20, of Lancaster faces felony charges of riot and criminal conspiracy. Marina Diaz-Santiago, Carlos Semidey and Germany Figuereo A 4-year-old girl kidnapped in Franklin County last month described her kidnapping to investigators and called the suspect by his first name, according to reports. Public Opinion reported that a search warrant in the case showed how the girl immediately began talking about what happened to her after she was found. The warrant was filed for the Washington Township home suspect Thomas Andrew Dewald, 20, was living in with relatives, according to Public Opinion. The girl went missing from her Washington Township home for several hours in the middle of the night on April 25, and was found 50 yards from the home Dewald was staying in. In the documents, the police detailed what the girl told them about the kidnapping, including that Tom barged into her room and took her, Public Opinion reported. The search warrant also reported finding strands of blonde hair in the home, which they previously said was in Dewalds room. The York Daily Record reported that Dewald has a juvenile record, including charges of aggravated indecent assault of a child and indecent assault of a person younger than 13. The aggravated indecent assault charge was withdrawn, but Dewald was adjudicated delinquent on the indecent assault charge, the paper reported. Documents of Dewalds juvenile cases are confidential in Pennsylvania, so it is unclear what was he was required to complete following the adjudication in the indecent assault case. Gov. Tom Wolf commends the House of Representatives leaders decision to stand before their legislative colleagues on Wednesday in a rare joint appearance to call for respect and civility. "In a time when too many are focused on advancing partisan politics, lets remind everyone that Pennsylvania is focused on delivering for the people who we serve, Wolf said in a statement released on Thursday. House Republican Leader Bryan Cutler of Lancaster County and Democratic Leader Frank Dermody of Allegheny County gave a public scolding to their legislative colleagues at the end of the days session on members behavior. Cutler said, People of Pennsylvania expect better from us. Dermody said, "Lets work in a way that makes sense for our constituents and make our constituents proud of the people theyve sent here. A string of controversies in recent weeks and months involving House members has cast that chamber in a bad light from a sexual assault allegation against a member to a prayer controversy and more. The latest incident is a widely circulated video of Philadelphia Democratic Rep. Brian Sims berating of an abortion protester outside a Philadelphia clinic that he later acknowledged was wrong. About that, Wolfs spokesman J.J. Abbott said earlier this week, Every person deserves to be treated with respect, whether they are a patient or a protestor. As a former Planned Parenthood escort, Governor Wolf understands the horrific shaming that patients face but those supporting patients should not utilize or legitimize such tactics." Meanwhile, Val DiGiorgio, the chairman of the states Republican party, called for a criminal investigation into the incident, saying Sims conduct was harassing, intimidating, and threatening. Judging by the timing of the scolding, that incident appears to have been the breaking point for the leaders tolerance of members misbehavior that have drawn a lot of complaints. Here is Wolfs full statement: I commend Leaders Dermody and Cutler for their joint call for respect and civility. Yesterdays shared message was an important reminder of the vital work ahead for state government. Further, it recalled the successes that weve had working together like protecting victims of domestic violence, battling the opioid epidemic and passing the first Clean Slate Law in the country. In the coming weeks, I look forward to working together to strengthen our workforce, reform our criminal justice system, lift people out of poverty, and invest in our schools. I believe there is room for bipartisan agreement on many issues and I join the leaders in aspiring to find common ground. In a time when too many are focused on advancing partisan politics, lets remind everyone that Pennsylvania is focused on delivering for the people who we serve. This story was updated to include Wolf spokesman J.J. Abbotts full comment from earlier in the week. Jan Murphy may be reached at jmurphy@pennlive.com. Follow her on Twitter at @JanMurphy. All the news you need to start your day. Sign up for Good Morning, Pennsylvania. A Harrisburg man wanted on nearly 40 criminal charges stemming from a Jan. 19 shooting in Lebanon was arrested Thursday by members of a U.S. Marshals Service task force. Sean Sykes, 28, of Harrisburg was arrested Thursday morning, when members of the U.S. Marshals Service Fugitive Task Force found him at a home on the 100 block of East Cottage Place in York, officials announced in an afternoon news release. Sykes was wanted on charges stemming from a Jan. 19 shooting on the 1000 block of Church Street in Lebanon. There, police said more than 20 shots were fired into a building and four people a 36-year-old Lebanon man, a 47-year-old Palmyra man, a 48-year-old North Cornwall Township woman and a 64-year-old Lebanon woman were injured. Police said the building was targeted in the shooting. Sykes is one of three suspects believed to have been involved in the shooting, police said. The other two suspects Eric McGill, 26, of Lebanon and Dominique Shumate, 28, of no permanent address were arrested shortly after the shooting following a brief police chase, officers announced at that time. Sykes escaped, police said. Local police were unable to locate Sykes and asked members of the U.S. Marshals Service to investigate, according to the Thursday release. The investigation led task force members to the East Cottage Place home, and Sykes was arrested without incident, officials said. Online court documents show that Sykes faces 39 criminal charges, including felony counts of criminal attempted homicide, conspiracy, aggravated assault and possession of a firearm when prohibited. According to the release, Sykes was turned over to the York County Sheriffs Office, and he will be extradited to Lebanon County. Belinda Arterbridge joined the Harrisburg School District as a teacher in 2016, immediately after graduating from college. Her initial joy of landing a job in her chosen field quickly turned to despair as students cursed at her, threw chairs and desks and started fights in the back of her third-grade school classroom. Academics took a back seat because she was spending nearly all of her time simply trying to control the classroom. She didnt have anywhere to turn for help. I was kicked, bit, spit on, cursed at, slapped, punched, she said. I came home with bruises covering my legs and, at one point, a black eye. At no point was any severe disciplinary action handed down for these infractions. Students might be suspended for a few days, but when they returned there was no plan of action, no support and no real consequence for anyone, except for me. After serving under six principals and assistant principals at the same elementary school over two and a half years, including one who ignored 22 emails asking for help, Arterbridge quit in January. She joined 70 others teachers who left the district this school year through mid-April, according to a tally of resigned teachers names presented monthly to school board members. The departure rate is on pace to match last years churn when 83 teachers left the district, representing more than 18 percent of the teaching workforce. That was the highest turnover rate recorded for a public school district across the state last year, according to a PennLive analysis of Department of Education teacher turnover data. The next highest turnover rate was 16.9 percent recorded at the Sayre Area School District in Bradford County. But the turnover percentage in Harrisburg may be even worse than the data suggests. Thats because more than 125 teachers left the district last year, according to school board meeting minutes. But 83 was the figure provided to the state education department. District officials did not provide an explanation for the discrepancy. Repeated attempts to seek comment from Superintendent Sybil Knight-Burney for this story were unsuccessful. PennLive interviewed five former Harrisburg teachers about their reasons for leaving. Most cited chaos in the classrooms, a political atmosphere at the top of the administration and a lack of systems, resources, and accountability across the district. Systems and accountability Several teachers who taught during the districts era of city control from 2000 to 2010 said that was the time they could remember the district was running the best. Then-superintendent Gerald Kohn understood the importance of systems and grants, and he established the best professional development of any district in the area, said Judy Conyers, who retired in 2016. But those systems that saved money, such as yearly counting of textbooks, or filing for reimbursements for toileting, feeding and self-care of special education students, fell away the year after Kohn left, said Nancy Adams, who left the district in 2015 after 14 years teaching special education. When she left, district officials told her she was eligible for continued health care coverage, even though she wasnt. She hadnt completed 15 years, which was the minimum threshold, but had to repeatedly refuse human resources employees who insisted she was eligible. As it turns out, union officials last year discovered a systemic problem where the district had been paying to keep 54 former employees on the districts healthcare plan as active employees long after they left the district. It was one of several financial scandals revealed last year. Other systems that fell by the wayside included a focus on harnessing grant money. The district has not employed a grant writer in recent years. Theres nothing coming in right now as far as grants, said Linda M. Cammack, a former teacher and former school board member. Thats why were failing so much. Lacking money, its hard to get anything accomplished, teachers said. Their salaries used to be so competitive that teachers were reluctant to leave the district. But the district pay has fallen behind, leaving one less reason to stay in the troubled district. Serious professional development for teachers dried up too, Conyers said. There was no serious professional development for teachers whatsoever, she said. We didnt have anybody really leading us. On My Own Arterbridge wrote up student infractions but said there was no follow-up by the administrators in her building, who were under pressure from the top to keep suspensions and expulsions down. Instead, it was Arterbridge who was put in the hot seat. She said an administrator talked to her about her voluminous write-ups and said she wasnt going to last long in the district unless she could toughen up. She started using a buddy room, where students could go to cool down if they acted out, but was chastised for using the room too much. When she used the room less, she said she was criticized for not taking advantage of that resource. I was getting a lot of mixed signals, she said, which wasnt helpful as a first-year teacher. I had an advisor, or mentor, assigned to me but she quit halfway through the year. Arterbridges next two years with the district werent any better. Because of staffing vacancies last year, her classes ballooned up to 40 students on some days. One thing that she said became very clear: I was on my own, she said. District administration has a duty to support the teachers, Cammack said. The teachers are the ones who are attempting to do the right thing, she said. But if they get no support, what good are you? Cammack said she has witnessed the district decline since she started teaching at William Penn High School in 1978. She later left to lead a program at HACC, then won a four-year seat on the school board in 1996 to try to fix things that were going wrong. She returned as a student support specialist in the district until that job was eliminated in 2009. She now drives a school bus for the district. Because teacher turnover is so closely tied to student achievement, erasing the teacher exodus has been a goal in the districts state-sponsored recovery plan since 2016. The turnover, particularly in core subjects, has been cited by Superintendent Sybil Knight-Burney as one the primary reasons for low standardized test scores under her leadership. She addressed the importance of teachers when asked to speak at an educational conference April 23 in Washington D.C. No matter what anybody else says, Ive been a principal, Ive been a teacher, Ive been a superintendent, Knight-Burney said in her speech to the conference. What a teacher does in the classroom counts the most. While the superintendent recognizes the importance of treating teachers as professionals, the districts stance in recent months has been adversarial. The district has engaged in several public spats with the teachers union over grievances, improper pay and a new contract. Meanwhile the teachers contract has been expired for nearly a year and specific ideas to address teacher turnover have been tabled for two years as the district is unable to negotiate a new contract. While many districts require exit interviews to find out why teachers are leaving and address those concerns, Harrisburg hasnt been doing exit interviews in recent years. Education experts say the value of stable staffing at schools cant be overstated. Good schools have a sense of community, Richard M. Ingersoll, a University of Pennsylvania professor and expert in school staffing, told the Philadelphia Inquirer for a recent investigation on excessive turnover at certain Philly schools. The teachers, the students, the staff. Theyre like a family. Turnover this high means theres no continuityIts a really terrible situation. The high exit rate of Harrisburg teachers persists as the district struggles with annual budget deficits, a series of financial scandals and calls from the citys mayors and lawmakers for the state to take over the district. Meanwhile, more teachers are leaving Harrisburg every month. Cries for Help Many times, the growing teacher vacancies are filled with brand-new teachers. When that happens year after year, there arent enough veteran teachers to serve as peer models, teachers said, which exacerbates the situation. Teachers who are still learning how to be teachers are faced with additional challenges of teaching in an urban district without proper preparation. Building administrators are often overworked or underqualified, the teachers said, and those positions are turning over just as fast. The districts 85-percent poverty rate, among the highest of any district in the state, is substantial, said Dr. Sharon Wolf of the University of Pennsylvania. Coming from an impoverished family can negatively affect a students learning, but those difficulties are exponentially worse when a student grows up in a neighborhood of concentrated poverty, she said. Problems in a students home or neighborhood are often carried with them into the classroom, where they can exhibit as bad behavior. Much of the bad behavior wasnt the fault of the students, teachers told PennLive. The majority of Harrisburg students have experienced repeated trauma, but there werent enough services available in the school district to address the problems, the teachers said. Principal and counselor jobs -- people who previously assisted with behavior issues -- were among those cut in recent years to try to balance the districts annual budget. Many of the misbehaviors are clearly cries for help, but nothing is done to address root problems, the teachers said. Instead, the student body has quickly learned that there are no consequences for bad behavior. My big thing was, if you dont discipline the small stuff and let it go, a former Camp Curtin teacher said, Then its going to hit the fan with the big stuff. She once fell to the floor and broke her arm while trying to break up a fight in her classroom. Once, a student spit directly into her face. If youre allowed to fight in school and thats okay, what is that teaching you? the 9-year veteran said. Were not teaching them that they are assaulting people and they cant do that. Several teachers described problems in their classroom escalating when additional students were temporarily added to their classrooms when no teacher was available for their original class. Administrators would split the classrooms lacking a teacher into other classrooms. At one point, 12 teachers were absent at Camp Curtin but the district could only find three substitutes. So all those children had to be pushed into other classrooms for the day. It became impossible to teach, said the 9-year veteran, who didnt want her name published because she eventually wanted to return to teaching. It got to the point most of the kids were acting out but there would be a few who would just be looking at me like, Please, teach me. But I couldnt because it was too unruly. It was a terrible feeling. The teacher said she thinks the Harrisburg School District could be great if the administration started its own alternative school again and pulled the most troubled students out of each building early in the school year. That alone would be more effective than all the expensive contracted services the district is doing to try to address multiple problems. That would leave the students who really want to learn, and they would be surrounded by other kids who are doing the right thing, she said. The district used to have its own alternative education program at the old William Penn High School building and that allowed a place for students who could not learn in a traditional environment. Now the district contracts with a private company, Camelot. District officials did not answer questions about discipline procedures or the number of students referred to Camelot. But the maximum combined enrollment in the three Camelot programs is about 200 students: 48 in the K-5 program and 146 in the 6-12 program. The cost per student for lower grades is $20,000 per student and the cost for older students is $12,000 per student per year compared to the districts average cost of educating each student ($11,000.) The district has an enrollment of about 6,300 students. The tools available to teachers to deal with students acting out and disrupting classrooms are typically reactive, according to the teachers union, including detention, in-school and out-of-school suspensions, rather than proactive. We have appealed to the administration to provide tools that build the skills and address the mental health needs of our students, said Jody Barksdale, president of the Harrisburg teachers union, such as effective programs for social-emotional learning that we have used successfully in the past and a return to our own in-house alternative education program. But, Barksdale said: Our pleas have fallen on deaf ears. Barksdale said the district recently ended a student counseling program with an agency called Pressley Ridge, without replacing it with other counseling services. But district officials said Thursday the agency announced it was stopping services because they did not have enough providers. The district is working to approve a contract with Pennsylvania Counseling to continue mental health services over the summer and into next year. Some of our teachers have left after being physically hurt by a student acting out, Barksdale said. For many teachers, being unable to have the tools and support needed from the district to help their students and manage their classrooms is overwhelming and can be the final straw that leaves them feeling like they have no choice but to leave teaching in the district. Staff Writer Daniel Simmons-Ritchie provided the data analysis for this report. Editors Note: This article was updated to clarify that Arterbridge served under six different principals and assistant principals. The article also was updated with district comment on Pressley Ridge. Edgar the rescue dog who thwarted an attempted abduction at his new home in the Chambersburg area is gaining national attention for his heroics and even nabbed an award Wednesday. The coonhounds tale of scaring off a man who police say broke into a Waynesboro home to abduct a child has been featured on Fox News, People magazine and Inside Edition, among other national media outlets. He may appear live on CBS This Morning later this week, said Thom Lambert, who along with his wife and three daughters, adopted Edgar from the local humane society last year. On Wednesday, Edgar won a Heroics Award from PETA, the worlds largest animal rights organization. "When this dog sensed that his family was in danger, he immediately sounded the alarm and defended them," said PETA Vice President Colleen O'Brien in a news release. "The Lamberts saved Edgar, and he saved them backand PETA encourages anyone who's inspired by this story to consider providing a dog or cat who's waiting at a local animal shelter with a lifelong home." A framed award certificate is being mailed to Edgar, along with a bag of toys and vegan dog treats. Other swag headed Edgars way includes a special doggy cake baked by a local woman who makes canine birthday cakes and a shower of toys and treats from a local Boy Scout Troop that wants to pay their respects, Thom Lambert said. The Lamberts also were invited to be the featured guests at a coonhound-rescue event where 150 coonhounds and their new families gathered to celebrate pet adoption. The positive attention on Edgar and rescuing homeless animals is the silver lining to a scary crime that could have turned tragic, but for Edgars aggressive barking in the middle of the night April 28. The Lambert family was asleep when Edgar started losing his mind, and barking in a way the family had only heard once before. It was pure rage, Thom Lambert said. Thom Lambert then heard footsteps scrambling down the stairs. When Lambert ran downstairs to see what was going on, he saw his window and kitchen door wide open, when both had been securely closed and locked when they went to bed. As it turned out, police said Thomas Dewald, 20, had broken into their house to abduct one of the girls, ages 3 to 8. But he told police he heard the dog barking and knew the dog meant business so he fled. Dewald had abducted a 4-year-old girl just three nights prior, police said, but she had inexplicably escaped from the wooden box where he had locked her at a relatives home where he was living while he went to work. Police believe Dewald hit the Lamberts house to get another child. But Edgar was ready for him. Its almost like he knew the danger, Thom Lambert said of Edgars relentless barking during the break-in. He was always such a laid-back dog, and he seemed like a big dummy in a lot of ways. But it just shows how much we underestimated his importance to the security and well-being of our home. Since the incident, Edgar has been acting protectively of the children, Lambert said. He said he will follow the youngest from the front door to the van each day when she goes to school. Edgar is enjoying his new hero status, Thom Lambert said. He was always a wanderer, visiting various neighbors houses when he was outside. The Lamberts couldnt keep him in their yard. But now when Edgar wanders, hes less likely to get any dirty looks or complaints. Instead, everyone is really sweet to Edgar, Thom Lambert said, even when he tries to eat a dirty diaper in someones back yard. Yea, hes got a hall pass right now, Thom Lambert said. Prior to his savior status he was sometimes known as a menace to the neighborhood. Personally, Thom Lambert hasnt minded all the attention and news interviews. While it has forced him to repeatedly retell the story of the near-abduction of one of his children, he finds the additional conversations therapeutic. With the awards, attention and accolades, the only thing that would make it better would be a call from Ellen DeGeneres to be a guest on her show, one of the Lamberts favorite programs. That would be a dream, Thom Lambert said, to be able to introduce Edgar to Ellen. But she hasnt called yet. A Commonwealth Court panel has refused to void a state licensing suspension and $10,000 fine imposed on an Ephrata-based chiropractor accused of placing a misleading advertisement in a newspaper aimed at the Mennonite community. The ad that got chiropractor Lawrence Charles Bennett in a bind dealt with health benefits he claimed to have been achieving by using Asyra, a galvanic skin measurement device that faces considerable skepticism in the mainstream medical community. Despite Bennetts claims that he did nothing wrong or misleading, the State Board of Chiropractic hit him with a three-year license suspension in February 2018. His appeal to Commonwealth Court put that penalty on hold, but the ruling the court issued this week in an opinion by Judge Robert Simpson is likely to change that. Bennett placed the contested ad for Asyra, an alternative medical device that is not approved by the state chiropractic board, in The Plain Communities Business Exchange in 2012. The ad was titled Improve Your Life! The Plain Communities Business Exchange is a nationwide monthly paper with around 18,000 subscribers among the Amish, Mennonites and other Anabaptist groups. Bennett identified himself as a chiropractor in the ad and touted the benefits of Asyra, which requires patients to hold two brass handles for a few minutes while connected to a computer that supposedly registers resonances involving bodily functions. Asyra can test for over 7,000 issues present in the body, the ad stated. Bennetts ad stated the Asyra testing cost $170 per patient beyond his standard fee, but would provide patients with readings on youre overall state of health along with the number of toxins in your body and which organs those toxins were affecting. It added that Bennett would use Asyra to evaluate the patients spine, hips and joints. Patient testimonials in the ad include one womans claim that supplements she was given as a result of Asyra testing dramatically shrank the size of her breast cancer tumor, Simpson noted. The chiropractic board began investigating when a Missouri dentist filed a complaint that Bennetts ad was misleading. In particular, Simpson wrote, he was concerned that the Mennonite community was susceptible to believing its claims. After a lengthy probe and hearings, the chiropractic board concluded Bennett had committed unprofessional conduct by using a device that is not approved by the state without proper specialized training. His acts violated chiropractic standards, the board determined. It board also found the ad was misleading because it indicated the Asyra device was meant to diagnose conditions, such as breast cancer, that are outside the scope of chiropractic, Simpson noted. On appeal to Commonwealth Court, Bennett challenged the testimony of an expert the chiropractic board relied upon in making its decision to discipline him. He claimed there is no evidence he used the Asyra for chiropractic treatment. Rather, he said he used it only for his nutritional counseling services, which he argued the chiropractic board has no authority to regulate. Also, Bennett contested the testimony of an expert the board credited in deciding to suspend him. That expert was skeptical about the effectiveness of Asyra, Simpson noted. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration does allow Asyra and similar devices to be marketed in this country under a Class II registration. Such a rating applies to medical devices, including surgical masks and motorized wheelchairs, that are considered to pose a moderate to high risk to users. In upholding Bennetts suspension, Simpson found that nutritional counseling is expressly within the scope of chiropractic when that activity is performed by a licensed chiropractor. So, the state board had authority to regulate that part of Bennetts business, he concluded. In any case, Simpson noted, Bennetts ad contained no reference to nutritional counseling, but did state he is a licensed chiropractor. And, the judge found, the ad did indicate that patients with ailments not covered by chiropractic, such as cancer, would benefit from Asyra evaluations. Simpson rejected Bennetts assertion that a disclaimer at the end of his ad negated any misconceptions about his use of Asyra. Substantial evidence also supports the (chiropractic) boards finding that (Bennett) engaged in false or misleading advertising, the judge wrote. An attempt to reach Bennetts attorney, Jill Laskowitz, for comment on the Commonwealth Court ruling and whether an appeal will be filed with the state Supreme Court was not immediately successful Thursday morning. Two of Americas largest craft breweries are merging. The Boston Beer Co., which produces Samuel Adams, is acquiring Dogfish Head in a deal worth $300 million, the companies announced Thursday. Boston Beer ranked as the second largest craft brewer in the country in 2018, behind D. G. Yuengling & Son Inc. in Pottsville, according to the Brewers Association. Dogfish Head, based in Delaware, ranked 13th, according to the trade group. With the merger, Boston Beer could pass Yuengling as the nations largest producer of craft beer. Even with the merger, the companys combined volume would account for 2 percent of all beer sold in the U.S., Boston Beer CEO Jim Koch and Dogfish Head CEO Sam Calagione wrote in a joint letter to the Beer Advocate website. The two executives said the merged company would maintain the ideals and spirit of an independent and experimental craft brewery, while evolving in the highly competitive beer market. We are bringing together two of Americas pioneering and award-winning independent craft brewerieswith the industrys best collection of brewing talent and a dynamic portfolio of craft and beyond beer brandsto position our company for success in an ever-growing and ever-changing world of brewing, Koch and Calagione wrote in the letter. Dogfish Head employs about 400 workers and is on pace to sell nearly 300,000 barrels of beer in 2019, which would represent high single-digit growth over the previous year, according to the press release announcing the deal. Boston Beers flagship brew is its Samuel Adams Boston Lager, but the company also produces a host of other lagers and ales, along with various seasonal offerings. The companys brands also include Angry Orchard hard ciders, Twisted Tea and Truly Hard Seltzer. The brewery operates a production facility in Lehigh County. Dogfish Head is likely best known for its India Pale Ales, such as 60-Minute IPA and 90-Minute IPA. But the brewery also has earned a reputation for its experimental and eclectic offerings. The beer industry continues to be more competitive, with large breweries such as Anheuser-Busch buying more and more craft breweries such as Goose Island and Blue Point in recent years. In their joint letter, Koch and Calagione noted the changes in the industry. Any company not looking at radical opportunities in a competitive industry will go the way of the typewriter," they wrote in their letter to Beer Advocate. To be able to compete and continue to grow, we realized that we have to do things differently. Our merger is different. By joining forces well be able to successfully compete while retaining our position and leadership within the indie craft market, alongside our 7500-ish fellow American small brewers, the joint letter continued. Were creating a uniquely robust craft beer company, with award-winning brewing talent and a shared culture of innovation. Under the deal, Dogfish Head shareholders will receive $173 million in cash, according to the press release announcing the deal. Calagione and his family will receive about 406,000 shares of Boston Beer stock based on a share price of $314.60, for a total value of $127.5 million. Together, the package reaches $300 million. Yuengling, which is celebrating its 190th anniversary this year, has been the nations largest craft brewer every year since 2014, when it passed Boston Beer. With the merger, Boston Beer could soon reclaim that title. Pennsylvania taxpayers own not only one official residence reserved for the states top executives that sits empty, but two. And that apparently is one too many to suit Senate President Pro Tempore Joe Scarnati. The Jefferson County Republican is proposing legislation to sell off the lieutenant governors residence in Fort Indiantown Gap. Pennsylvania is the only state in the nation that provides a residence for its second-in-command. According to the state Department of General Services, it costs upwards of $400,000 a year for upkeep and that is regardless of whether it is occupied or not. Currently it is not. Lt. Gov. John Fetterman, like Gov. Tom Wolf, has chosen not to live in the official residences that are provided to the people who hold their positions. Wolf lives at his home in Mount Wolf, York County, while Fetterman chose to rent a townhouse in Harrisburg from his brother instead of living in the official residence. He told PennLive after his election in November, The commonwealth does not owe me a place to live. The lieutenant governors residence, called the State House, is a three-story, 2,400 square foot stone house located in a peaceful setting along Route 934 in Lebanon County. It features a five-car garage and a large swimming pool with a poolhouse. It was built in the 1940s for the states adjutant general and periodically served as the sitting governors summer mansion prior to being turned over in 1971 to house the second-in-line to the governor. Scarnati, himself, lived there for a couple of years after he ascended to the role of lieutenant governor upon the death of then-Lt Gov. Catherine Baker Knoll in 2008. As public servants, it is our duty to continually look for ways that government can operate more effectively and efficiently, Scarnati said in a news release announcing his proposal. Given that Pennsylvanias current lieutenant governor does not even reside at the lieutenant governors residence, now is the perfect time to sell this state property. A spokesman for Wolf said the governor is open to a conversation about this proposal. However, spokesman J.J. Abbott said, we have not yet consulted the Department of General Services or the Pennsylvania National Guard on the feasibility of this becoming private property given its location at Fort Indiantown Gap. The property sits on an active military installation that headquarters the Pennsylvania National Guard and that has proven to complicate proposals to sell it in the past. While it sits empty, the Wolf Administration has made the lieutenant governors residence available for public purposes although its unclear if any event has been held there since the former Lt. Gov. Mike Stack vacated the premises in January. "It is clear that with little to no official state business taking place at the residence in Fort Indiantown Gap, these taxpayer funds can be put to better use. I look forward to working with my colleagues to advance this important measure, Scarnati said. He proposes to use proceeds from the sale of this property to assist military veterans in obtaining affordable housing, according to a memo he is circulating to solicit support for his proposal from fellow senators. In the reporting of those past failed efforts to sell off the property, stories came to light about the place from some of its former occupants. They shared fond memories from the time they spent living there as well as pieces of commonwealth history that they claimed made the residence a commonwealth treasure. Among them: The seed that led to Interstate 79 in western Pennsylvania was planted there. The late Gov. Edward Martin buried his war hero dog, Bomber, there. The late Lt. Gov. Ernest Klines golden retriever delivered many a dead groundhog to its porch. The daughter of the late Gov. Raymond Shafer had her wedding reception on a tented lawn there (in spite of an unending downpour). And its creaking wooden floors in the upstairs made it impossible for children to sneak out of bed. Jan Murphy may be reached at jmurphy@pennlive.com. Follow her on Twitter at @JanMurphy. Everything you need to know to start your day. Sign up for Good Morning, Pennsylvania. The Borough of State College, including the police department, release a statement following the announcement that the Centre County DA would not be criminally charging the officers involved in the shooting death of an autistic man earlier this year. Osaze Osagie, 29, was killed on March 20 when family members called police, concerned about his well being because of threats he was making toward himself and others. Officers went to Osagies home, but were threatened by Osagie with a knife, police said. Osagie was killed when he ignored commands to drop the knife and ran at officers, police said. The Osagie family continues to be in the thoughts and prayers of the State College Borough, the statement released Wednesday afternoon reads. Our sincere sympathy goes out to the entire family during this difficult time. In addition to the Osagie family, we also recognize that this has impacted the broader State College community and many persons in our community are mourning the loss of Osazes life. Osagies family spoke out against the decision on Wednesday, and their attorney said they will forever regret their decision to call police for emergency help that day. The boroughs statement discusses officers involved in the shooting, saying that officers have always had a strong relationship with the community, and want to continue to strength the relationship through addressing issues of race, inclusion, diversity and mental health. We continue to be proud of our officers and service that they provide, Borough Manager Thomas Fountaine II said in the statement. A task force was created by the borough to address community concerns raised by the shooting, the borough said. State College and Penn State University put together a task force in 2015 about policing diverse communities, between both borough and university departments. This new task force will look at the findings from the 2015 task forces report, while also looking into issues regarding the mental health services in Centre County, inclusion, diversity and equity, the borough said. The task force will give recommendations to the borough on whether an office should be created to address issues of equity and diversity, the borough said. We will continue to collaborate with a wide variety of diverse, local partners to address community concerns as we seek strategies and programs designed to enhance the professional services provided by the women and men of the SCPD," Fountaine said. We will also work closely with the task force being formed to identify ways of improving the response to mental health needs in Centre County as well as ways to enhance the relationships and increase trust between police and communities of color." The borough said more information on the task force will be released at a later date. The Three Mile Island nuclear power station survived the worst commercial nuclear accident in American history. But 40 years later, a full economic meltdown - triggered by a changed energy economy - is finally claiming the Londonderry Township, Dauphin County plant and its more than 600 permanent jobs. Chicago-based Exelon Corp. officials announced the plants Sept. 30 shutdown Wednesday after attempts to win state-sanctioned financial assistance fizzled, and - as the regions civil defense officials might have put in the days of the 1979 partial meltdown - this is not a drill. There are a number of reasons why: A changed energy market. For a solid decade now, the energy generation market has been revolutionized by non-conventional drilling that has opened up vast reserves of natural gas in Pennsylvania and other states. That abundant gas supply - along with relatively flat demand for electricity as energy efficiency measures have kicked in - has steadily lowered the prices of natural gas, making the wholesale energy marketplace much tougher going for the existing nuclear power plants. Three Mile Island was in a particularly vulnerable spot because, as a single-reactor plant (courtesy of the aforementioned accident at its Reactor 2) it has long generated relatively less power for the costs associated with operating a nuclear station. Independent market reports for PJM Interconnection, the energy grid manager for Pennsylvania and 12 other northeastern states, continue to show that it is the only one of the five nuclear plants in the state that is currently not profitable, with projected losses of $57 million this year alone. Which brings us to... The politics. In a number of other states, the nuclear industry has successfully won subsidies for its zero-emissions attributes - in other words, the fact that those clouds coming out of the cooling towers are only steam, and not pollutants that contribute to lung disease or climate change. The ongoing campaign arrived in Pennsylvania two years ago, resulting in subsidy proposals in both the state House and state Senate. But supporters found the going harder here than in Illinois, New York or New Jersey. Unlike those other three states, Pennsylvania is a national leader in both natural gas and coal production. Lawmakers representing those fossil fuel regions were always going to be slow to support what those industries characterized as a bail-out for nuclear plants. Add in a sustained, multi-million dollar anti-subsidy advocacy campaign funded by gas and oil interests, and pro-nukes interests had a real war on their hands. Then too, there is a large contingent of Republican members in both the House and Senate GOP majorities who are devoted to free-market philosophies, and therefore naturally opposed to putting a governmental thumb on a deregulated energy scale that - over the last 10 years - has reduced wholesale energy prices and cut carbon emissions in Pennsylvania. The subsidy, after all, would have cost residential and commercial electric ratepayers a cumulative $500 million a year, according to several estimates. Enough members were troubled by that thumb on the scale, as it turned out, that GOP leaders like House Majority Leader Bryan Cutler, R-Lancaster, or Senate Majority Leader Jake Corman, R-Centre County - neither of whom publicly endorsed the subsidy bills - could never declare that they had a majority of their majorities in favor of moving forward. We never got to a point we had a majority or even a near majority of our caucus," conceded Sen. Ryan Aument, R-Lancaster County and a leader of the bicameral nuclear caucus. There wasnt enough time for a courtship between environmentalists who want to see a greater push for wind, solar and other renewable energy resources in Pennsylvania and the pro-nuclear forces to develop into a full-blown policy romance as has blossomed in places like Illinois or New Jersey. Finally, Gov. Tom Wolf failed to give a clear sign of support for the subsidy bills as proposed, or to publicly push any alternatives, even though taking policy steps to preserve the states nuclear fleet is part of the recommendations in the states latest Climate Change Action plan. Wolfs press secretary, J.J. Abbott, pushed back Wednesday on criticism that the governor was not engaged, noting the administration had worked the issue hard behind the scenes. "Governor Wolf and his staff have been actively engaged for months with the General Assembly on finding a solution that could actually pass, Abbott said. To this point, such a plan has not emerged. The deadline. Three Mile Islands owners, Exelon, had a natural pressure point on the issue because of a scheduled refueling outage this fall, and it would become their line in the sand. TMI Spokesman Dave Marcheskie said Wednesday that because of the unique features of the nuclear fission process, power generation cant be ramped down to make an existing fuel core last longer. Nor can the makers of custom-tailored fuel assemblies rush their fabrication process. So when Exelon issued its June 1 deadline for seeing signs of action on the subsidy bill, that was the condensed timeline, Marcheskie explained. Weve evaluated all possible options to try to squeeze as much time as possible. With the Pennsylvania Senate gaveling out on Wednesday with no other session days scheduled for May and no momentum to bring members back, Exelon officials said they felt a responsibility to tell their employees the battle was lost. We literally reached a decision this week that there wasnt enough time left, said Lael Campbell, Exelons director of state government affairs, explaining Wednesdays announcement. We wanted to notify them (employees) as soon as we came to that reality. Wheres it go from here? While all sides are blowing taps on Three Mile Island, Pennsylvanias nuclear subsidy issue is not necessarily dead. Aument and Rep. Tom Mehaffie, R-Lower Swatara Township, and the leader of the nuclear subsidy forces in the state House, both confirmed Wednesday they hope to re-set a broader discussion before more nuclear plants, which makes up about 40 percent of power generation in Pennsylvania, are lost. Their hope now is that with the pressure of an immediate deadline gone, but the fact that one of Pennsylvanias nuclear plants is now on a glide path to retirement 15 years before its license expiration a bracing reality, the quest for a new solution will resume. Some independent energy market analysts expressed hope Wednesday that that happens, both because of nuclear energys present importance in the fight to lower greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to climate change, and the states interest in preserving a diversified energy portfolio for the long-term. It is unfortunate the bill didnt seem to evolve (from a policy standpoint) into something narrowly tailored to avoid this outcome, said Christina Simeone, a senior fellow with the University of Pennsylvanias Kleinman Center for Energy Policy. It reflects the complicated energy politics in Pennsylvania, the second-largest gas and (overall) power producing state in the nation. One thing state officials do have now is a little more time. The next Pennsylvania nuclear plant on the economic chopping block is believed to be Beaver Valley, outside Shippingport. Its owner, FirstEnergy Solutions, has announced a 2021 de-activation without legislative support and/or market reforms. Well see what they do with it. A federal court has torpedoed the appeal of a contractor who was jailed for committing a $1.2 million fraud against the U.S. Navy. The ruling from the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 3rd Circuit upholds the 21-month prison sentence Andrew Persaud received for filing false financial documents while his Virginia- and Maryland-based firm, Persaud Companies Inc., managed a building project at the Naval Support Activity base in Hampden Township. Judge Jane R. Roth wrote in the circuit courts opinion that Persaud committed the fraud in mid-2012 after receiving a $4.4 million pact to serve as general contractor the local construction project. Investigators said Persaud, 46, submitted certifications that he was paying subcontractors with money he received from the Navy. The certifications were false, Roth wrote. By September 2012 most of the subcontractors had walked off the job site because they had not been paid by PCI for their work. Persaud received his prison term and restitution order from U.S. Middle District Senior Judge Sylvia H. Rambo in 2016 after pleading guilty to a charge of making false statements. Rambo ordered him to pay the restitution to the insurer that had compensated the subcontractors. Roth rejected as meritless Persauds contention that Rambos sentence isnt justified. She likewise sank his claim that the restitution figure is too high because the insurer also has a separate $800,000 civil judgment against him. Persaud provided no evidence such a judgment exists, or that he had paid a penny toward it, Roth wrote. In any case, she said payments on the civil judgment would be applied to reduce the amount of his court-ordered restitution. The Naval Support Activity fraud is one of two cons that sent Persaud to federal prison. Roth noted he also served a 2-year federal prison sentence for a 2012 fraud in Virginia where he provided a bank with falsified financial documents in a plot to increase his companys line of credit. What will the just-announced closure of the Three Mile Island nuclear power plant mean for Pennsylvanias energy consumers? Probably nothing too noticeable, in the near-term future. The state will continue to produce far more energy than its users require, and the lost capacity from Three Mile Island may well, energy experts say, be replaced by cheaper power fueled by natural gas. But, on the other hand, its not a good day for the Pennsylvania front in the war on climate change. Heres a closer look at the issues posed by the closure from an energy market standpoint. Power Supply. The loss of TMIs capacity as of this October amounts to a reduction of about 804 megawatts from Pennsylvanias 2018 generating capacity of 44,753 MWs. Thats a reduction of 1.8 percent. The states peak demand for electricity, according to the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission, requires approximately 30,000 MWs. So you can see, that from a power availability standpoint, theres really no immediate problem. In 2018, according to regional wholesale grid manager PJM Interconnections numbers, nuclears share of total in-state power generation was 40 percent, with natural gas at 30 percent, coal 21 percent, hydro-electric 3 percent, wind 2 percent and all other sources at less than 1 percent. With TMIs elimination, nuclears share of the market could be expected to fall back into the 37 percent range, and natural gass share would continue to rise, but the single plants elimination by itself would not dramatically end the diversity of supply benefit. Bottom line, according to Christina Simeone, a senior fellow at the University of Pennsylvanias Kleinman Center for Energy Policy, There are no reliability issues, given the oversupply situation in PJM," which covers Pennsylvania and all or parts of 12 other states. Rates. Given the states energy-exporter position, TMIs closure is not likely to force any near-term increases in electric rates. Citing a 2018 Penn State study, Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission Chair Gladys Brown Dutrieuille told state House members Monday that if the lost nuclear capacity is replaced by natural gas-fueled generation, which is the likely outcome, wholesale energy prices would decrease in a range of 9 percent to 24 percent each year over the next three years. Those findings by associate professor Seth Blumsack were based on the loss of both Three Mile Island and Beaver Valley, a nuclear plant in western Pennsylvania that could close in 2021, as well as market forecasts that anticipate only slight increases in natural gas prices through the next several years. Supporters of nuclear subsidies, however, contend the problems that have beset TMI are likely to reduce profits at the states other four nuclear power stations in the years to come, and could eventually leave them vulnerable to closure, too. Thats also backed up by a recent PJM analysis. While its State of the Market report from March shows all other Pennsylvania nuclear stations remaining profitable through 2021, their cumulative profits would fall from an estimated $437.7 million this year, to an estimated $280.8 million in 2021. If the other nuclear plants closed in the near or intermediate-term, supporters of a nuclear subsidy argue, Pennsylvania ratepayers could then be left extremely vulnerable to swings in natural gas prices. Policymakers still have the ability and authority to prevent a broader state impact, if they are willing to act before more nuclear plants follow a similar path to Three Mile Island, Martin Williams, co-chair of the pro-subsidy Nuclear Powers Pennsylvania coalition, said Monday. "If our state legislators care about keeping electricity prices affordable, care about keeping good-paying jobs in Pennsylvania, and care about keeping our air clean, then they will take action. One separate, multi-state proposal that could help nuclear plants is a PJM plan to pay nuclear operators with a premium if their round-the-clock power is tapped to make up for weather or other temporary disruptions in other supply lines. PJM spokeswoman Susan Buehler said Wednesday that proposal is still awaiting final action by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. Emissions. Heres where Three Mile islands retirement gets more complex. Nuclear energy happens to be the nations largest source of carbon-free power, which means that it is kind of a foundational piece in the building fight to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to limit the effects of climate change. In fact, supporters of the subsidy effort here have noted that at present, nuclear provides more than 90 percent of the all the zero-carbon energy produced in Pennsylvania. Remember, any near-term drop in nuclear generation here will most likely be picked up by burning more natural gas which, while cleaner than coal, is still a fossil fuel and would in fact add to Pennsylvanias carbon loading and undermine progress the state has made in reducing greenhouse gas emissions over the last decade. Because while replacing coal with gas equals emissions cuts, replacing nuclear with gas is a net polluter. An analysis by Public Utility Commission member Andrew Place this winter suggested the loss of both Three Mile Island and Beaver Valley would add about 11 percent more to Pennsylvanias current power plant emissions. More to the point of Mondays closure announcement, Place found that Three Mile Islands power - if replaced by natural gas - would account for about 3.2 million tons of additional carbon dioxide emissions annually. For context, all Pennsylvania energy producers emitted 81.9 million tons in 2017. So thats a step back in the battle against climate change, though not necessarily to Square One. With the scheduled retirement of more of Pennsylvanias large coal-fired power plants in the coming years, emissions reductions there could largely offset the gains from natural gas plants replacing Three Mile Island, so the cumulative effect of the announced changes could be wash, says Jackson Morris, Eastern Region Climate and Clean Energy Director for the Natural Resources Defense Council. But the state will never meet the Wolf Administrations long-term greenhouse gas reduction goals, he and other environmental advocates said, if policy-makers are content to just ride the Marcellus Shale natural gas wave for the next generation. The targeted cuts - tied to 2005 baselines - are 26 percent by 2025, and 80 percent by 2050. Morris said in his view the Three Mile Island closure in itself is not a point of no return by any means (for the environment), but it does reinforce the need for Pennsylvania to get its act together with new development of renewable power sources, upgraded energy efficiency standards and binding, and declining limits on future greenhouse gas emissions from the power industry. I write in support of Jaime Keating for the Office of Cumberland County District Attorney. I am a retired member of the Pennsylvania State Police and a former Cumberland County detective. My reasons for supporting Jaime are many. Jaime Keating is an accomplished prosecutor. He cares about victims. He believes in accountability. Most importantly, he understands justice is free of any consideration of class, color, creed or condition. It is free from politics or prejudice. Mr. Keatings record qualifies him for the position of District Attorney. I believe his judgement, work ethic and sincere commitment to law enforcement distinguish him as the best candidate. He has served the citizens of Pennsylvania and Cumberland County for over twenty-five years. He is the right choice for our future. Todays men and women of law enforcement are challenged far greater than any time in my memory. The selection of persons of moral conscience for public office is most critical in these times of social mistrust and public scrutiny. As a former police officer I am asking you vote for Jaime Keating. Julio Mendez, York Township, York County Health official: Omicron 'likely more spread than we're aware of' (Left to right:) Cathy Simpson, Bi Jean Ngo, and James Kern in "Among the Dead," through May 26 at Theatre Exile. Read more Theatre Exiles production of Hansol Jungs Among the Dead addresses challenging topics over the course of 90 minutes intergenerational trauma, the effects of war on both men and women, and the history of Korean comfort women but it does so with purpose, compassion, and a generous pinch of humor. The surreal narrative in Among the Dead, which runs through May 26, is an ambitious one: A Korean American woman named Ana Woods arrives in Seoul in 1975 with the ashes of her estranged father. She meets an overly friendly bellhop who is soon revealed to be Jesus, and embarks on a time-bending journey that unravels the story of Number Four, her Korean mother, one of 200,000 women forced into sex slavery by the Imperial Japanese Army between 1932 and 1945. Among the Dead is best characterized as a dark comedy. Cathy Simpson put on a pitch-perfect performance as Jesus, who acts as the voice of reason for the three other characters. Bi Jean Ngos Ana is sharp and biting. Spam the canned meat, not the emails plays an important role. (So does jackfruit.) The set was intriguing: Lightbulbs and knotty branches dangle from the ceiling, while the claustrophobic hotel room where much of Anas story plays out lends urgency to the performance. Physically trapped in the hotel thanks to student protests, she is also emotionally trapped in the trauma she inherited from her parents. Among the Dead is not a perfect play, but its an important one. Jung shows that its possible to tell compelling, nuanced stories about the effects of war on Asian women and American G.I.'s without glamorizing deeply traumatic moments. Ana was conceived during a violent, fraught encounter instead of in a moment of passionate love. Luke was not a loving, doting father; instead, he abandoned his baby daughter with his parents to go fight in more wars. Forcing you to reckon with these realities over and over again, the play patiently educates the audience about the horrific events of history. Im glad a story like Among the Dead has emerged about another Asian war story that celebrates the strength and resilience of these women, Ngo said in an interview with the theater. The ultimate savior in this story isnt the American soldier, nor is it Jesus. The play really hits its stride in its second half, when key encounters take place. At one point, the audience learns Number Fours real name as she announces it defiantly, with a glint in her eye after choosing survival for the second time. In that moment, its nearly impossible not to feel heartbroken for all the women who lived Number Fours reality and are fighting for their stories not to be erased from history. But its also a triumphant moment a reclaiming of agency and a promise to survive again and again for familial love, even against overwhelming odds. Theater Among the Dead Through May 26 at Theatre Exile, 1340 S. 13th St. Tickets: $35 through May 16, $37 through May 23, $40 through May 26. Students )with valid ID) $15 weekdays, $20 on weekends. Information: 215-218-4022, theatreexile.org Activists and community leaders stand during a news conference, arguing that developments that received tax breaks should benefit longtime residents in Camden, N.J. The new high-rise office tower on Camden's waterfront was approved for $245 million in tax breaks. Read more Camden community leaders pressed for minority hiring information from companies that received New Jersey tax incentives, during a waterfront news conference Thursday, near the site of a construction project that won approval for $245 million in tax credits. Were asking for documentation and reports that show the residents who are working at these companies," said Camden County NAACP president Kevin Barfield, joined by a small group of faith and labor leaders and community activists. The request came amid an intensifying political battle over an investigation into tax credit programs such as Grow New Jersey, which approved $1.6 billion for companies that pledged to invest and create jobs in Camden, one of the poorest cities in the state. Democratic elected officials in Camden have lambasted the investigation put in motion by Democratic Gov. Phil Murphy as an attack on the citys efforts to combat crime, and attract new businesses. This kind of progress happens by working together and not by vilifying people or institutions, Mayor Frank Moran and other officeholders said in a statement Wednesday. Yet that is exactly what the governor is doing. He is conducting a proxy war against Camden. Political power broker and insurance executive George Norcross III whose companys new office tower provided the backdrop for the news conference went so far as to call the investigation McCarthy-like" during a lengthy interview Wednesday with the New Jersey Star-Ledger. But Barfield voiced his support for the inquiry, and said Camdens residents are being left out of the programs benefits. Our position is that we need transparency and accountability," Barfield said, and we agree that the governors task force should be evaluating the effectiveness of the program. In January, a state audit of the incentive programs overseen by the Economic Development Authority (EDA) found numerous significant deficiencies with the agencys oversight, including its ability to verify that companies actually created jobs in exchange for the tax credits. While companies that win approval for the credit commit to retaining and creating jobs, they are not obligated to hire locally. Sue Altman, state director for New Jersey Working Families, a grassroots organizing group, recently asked the EDA for documents about the diversity and inclusion goals and accomplishments for companies that received Grow New Jersey awards. The records request encompassed hiring data for minority, disabled and veteran employees. The response from the EDA: The agency said it didnt have any documents that matched that description. Barfield said the city of Camden should be gathering such data, too including information about employee retention and job training, and whether hires can actually move up the ladder. We want to see those numbers, he said. Last September, Moran announced a Camden Works initiative, aimed at matching Camden workers to companies. The announcement followed controversial comments by Holtec CEO Krishna Singh earlier that month about the city residents and their willingness to show up to work. Holtec won approval for $260 million in tax credits to build a technology campus in Camden. Barfield said he has attempted follow-up discussions on Camden Works, to no avail. Ive tried to meet with the mayor a number of times it seems like he refuses to be available to talk about these important issues, Barfield said. The mayors office did not respond to a request for comment Thursday. Messages seeking comment from Holtec were not returned. George Norcross has long said that the revitalization of Camden will not be complete unless and until the people of Camden are included in its renaissance, spokesman Dan Fee said Thursday evening. As chair of Camdens Cooper Health System, Norcross has instituted a medical coding training program for high school kids with guaranteed jobs placement, Fee said, and the health-care system raised the minimum wage to $15 [an hour], which had a direct benefit to its workers who live in Camden. Amid the wave of new development, promises arent being fulfilled, said the Rev. Bryan McAllister, pastor of Bethel AME church in Camden, during the waterfront news event. Its disrespectful, he added, to show up to a place like this, and not include the people. FILE - In this June 27, 2017,photo a California dispensary owner prepares his monthly tax payment, $40,131.88 in cash in Los Angeles. For Kiloh, the cash is a daily hassle. It needs to be counted repeatedly to safeguard against loss. Read more The Attorneys General for Pennsylvania and New Jersey are among dozens asking congressional leaders to allow legal marijuana businesses to use the banking network. Industry analysts estimated that in 2017 the U.S. cannabis industry generated more than $8.3 billion in sales. Because the federal government considers marijuana illegal, nearly every dollar generated was handled outside the federally regulated banking system. More importantly, every transaction was handled in cash. By 2025, industry analysts expect revenues to balloon to $25 billion. Marijuana is fully legal in at least 10 states and it is legal for medicinal use in 33 states and the District of Columbia. The billions in marijuana cash circulating from businesses to local financial institutions that accept weed money is widely considered a public safety risk. Pennsylvania AG Josh Shapiro and New Jersey AG Gubir Grewal were among 38 attorneys general who signed a letter dated Thursday to request that Congress pass the SAFE Banking Act. The proposed law would provide legal protections to financial institutions who offer banking services to the marijuana industry in states where cannabis is legal. An effective safe harbor would bring billions of dollars into the banking sector, enabling law enforcement; federal, state and local tax agencies; and cannabis regulators in 33 states and several territories to more effectively monitor cannabis businesses and their transactions, the letter stated. Without a safe harbor provision, all legal marijuana transactions must be conducted in cash. A handful of banks usually state chartered institutions or credit unions accept cash proceeds but charge marijuana growers and retailers up to $15,000 a month, per account, to handle it. A law would open the industry to the use of credit cards. Pennsylvania and New Jersey have legalized marijuana for medical use and each state is considering bills to allow adult recreational use. The letter states that SAFE Act would not constitute any endorsement to the legalization of marijuana-related transactions. The Eagles stadium will continue to be called Lincoln Financial Field for the next 14 seasons after the organization extended its naming rights deal with Lincoln Financial Group through the 2032 season. The announcement was made Thursday near the south end zone of the stadium, with rain falling on Eagles owner Jeffrey Lurie, team president Don Smolenski, and Lincoln Financial Group executives. The new pact will total $170 million, an average of $12.14 million per season. The original deal, which was set to expire in 2022, paid the Eagles $139.6 million over 20 seasons. To have a hometown corporate team support your hometown team, there becomes this connection that carries beyond the stadium, Smolenski said of the Radnor-based financial services company. It provides us resources for what we do from a business perspective, but its resources that we put into the building for the fans, resources that we put into the team for the fans, and its resources that we do together in the community, which is for Philadelphia. The stadium opened in 2003, so this new deal will extend the name into the 30th season. Dennis Glass, president and CEO of Lincoln Financial Group, said that the partnership helps the company reach a national audience and that the association matters to employees. He also emphasized the hometown connection to the team, noting that the company could purchase naming rights elsewhere and generate similar publicity. But it matters more that its in Philadelphia. There will be cosmetic changes to reflect the new deal, including Lincoln Financial Field signs on the east and west rooftop of the stadium that will be visible on flyovers. There will also be additional signage on the exterior of the stadium. Smolenski saw value in the continuity of the name. Fans went to games at Veterans Stadium for three decades. Now, theyll go to The Linc for at least the same period. More than a generation, Smolenski said. I think theres a lot of value to that. John Polefka, who attended Phoenixville High School but dropped out before graduating. He was killed in Vietnam in 1969. Read more With the 50th anniversary of John Polefkas combat death in a Vietnamese province just west of Saigon approaching, it seemed that the number of people who still remembered the lanky Phoenixville youth with a nice smile and good sense of humor had dwindled to a handful. Among those who have always honored his memory is Kirsten Paxson, Polefkas 45-year-old niece, who considers the uncle she never knew a guardian angel and has held onto all the letters he sent home from Vietnam. So Paxson was surprised and thrilled to learn that 1968 alumni from Phoenixville Area High School had established a John A. Polefka Memorial Scholarship Fund to aid students joining the military or planning to study criminal justice. I was like, Wow, thats pretty remarkable I was floored, said Paxson, the daughter of Polefkas late sister, his only sibling, upon learning of the fund. Now in its second year, it has raised nearly $18,000 from donors who attended school with Polefka in the Chester County steel town during the 1950s and 60s. Chas Kopp, the 1968 Phoenixville grad who spearheaded the effort, said alumni going to their 50th reunion in 2018 thought it was a great idea to honor their classmate although Polefka dropped out of school and never earned his diploma and the sacrifices that young people from their generation made in Southeast Asia. The scholarship fund raised $13,000 in its first year, and aided or recognized six 2018 graduating seniors, including two $2,000 scholarships to students planning to study criminal justice, a pledge of $500 stipends to three who enlisted in the Marine Corps, and a special award to grad Caroline Turner, headed to the U.S. Naval Academy. Kopp said the fund has brought in $4,000 to $5,000 more this year, and the committee plans a second round of awards this month, following an appreciation luncheon last week for all seniors enlisting in the military. He said Polefka was the "only guy killed in Vietnam that was from our class. Officials dont know exactly how many Phoenixville young men were killed during the Vietnam War, but say six residents are listed on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall in Washington. Its believed as many as 13 members of the high schools 335-student Class of 1968 served in the conflict. Gerri Wegrzynowicz Polefkas aunt, who lives upstate in Warrior Run, and who remembers him from a summer he spent with her and her five children recalls that neither she nor Polefkas mom wanted him to enlist or to leave for Vietnam in 1968, a couple of years after he left school. I was a little bit upset about that at that time, she said. Polefkas unit part of the First Battalion of the Fifth Cavalry Regiment was attacked near Binh Long, and he was killed on Aug. 31, 1969. The Chester County corporal was posthumously awarded the Purple Heart. He was in Vietnam a very short time when he was killed, said Wegrzynowicz, recalling details such as his open casket and the military escort that brought his body home. I still feel sad occasionally thinking about them he was so young, all those young men. Paxson said her mother, Charmaine, who was two years ahead of Polefka in Phoenixville schools, was close to her brother and spoke of him frequently when she was growing up so much so that Paxson gave her daughter the middle name Arn, the same as his. Also, Paxsons twin brother is named John after his late uncle. What my mom told me is, he was funny, he was quiet, he was a prankster, said Paxson, a high school English teacher in Berks County. And he was always something of a presence someone who Paxson felt had somehow helped her survive a car crash in which she suffered a broken neck around the time of her mothers 2005 death from pancreatic cancer. Hes always been my guardian angel, so it seemed right that he could be that for somebody else, Paxson said of the scholarships. My mom would have been so tickled. Delawares Dogfish Head Brewery and Boston Beer Company, maker of Samuel Adams, will merge, the two companies announced Thursday afternoon. The deal is worth around $300 million, according to a release from Boston Beer Company. Dogfish Head said the merger was prompted by changing market conditions where global mega brewers are buying regional brewers and marketing them as independent and local. Boston Beer CEO Dave Burwick, who will lead the combined company, added via a statement that the company expects to see more consolidation in the craft industry over time, and the new entity will be in the best position to take advantage of those changes. The merger follows a 2015 deal in which Dogfish Head sold a 15 percent stake to private equity firm LNK Partners. Launched in 1984, Boston Beer is the second-largest craft brewer in the U.S., behind Yuengling. Dogfish Head, founded in 1995, is No. 13. Once combined, the company will remain an independent craft brewery, according to the definition provide by the Brewers Association, which represents the craft beer industry. To be considered independent, less than 25 percent of a craft brewery can be owned or controlled by a beverage alcohol industry member that is not itself a craft brewer, the Brewers Association states. Boston Beer said in a statement that the combined entity will be better positioned to compete against the global beer conglomerates within the craft beer category that are 50- and 100-times its size, while still representing less than 2 percent of beer sold in the United States. Boston Beer CEO Dave Burwick will lead the combined company. According to Brewbound, George Pastrana will retain his role as president and COO of Dogfish Head. There reportedly are no plans for either company to reduce their respective sales forces following the merger. We believe we are creating the most dynamic and diverse American-owned platform for craft beer and beyond, Boston Beer Company founder and chairman Jim Koch said via a statement. This combination is the right fit as both Boston Beer and Dogfish Head have a passion for brewing and innovation, we share the same values and we will learn a lot from each other as we continue to invest in the high-end beer category. In a letter posted Thursday afternoon on Beer Advocate, Koch and Dogfish Heads Sam Calagione wrote: By joining forces well be able to successfully compete while retaining our position and leadership within the indie craft market, alongside our 7500-ish fellow American small brewers. Under the terms of the deal, released by Boston Beer, Dogfish Head will receive 406,000 shares of Boston Beer; Dogfish Head shareholders also will receive $173 million in cash, Dogfish Head cofounders Sam and Mariah Calagione will by the largest noninstitutional shareholders in the company behind Koch, Brew Bound said. Calagione will also join the board of directors at Boston Beer Company in 2020, and Dogfish Head will maintain a significant presence in its home state of Delaware. Not only are Dogfish Head and Boston Beer two original American breweries, but Jim Koch and I worked hard with other leading craft brewery founders and the Brewers Association to develop and champion what defines independent American brewers, Calagione said in a statement. This merger better positions Dogfish Head and our coworkers to continue growing within this definition for many years to come. The deal is expected to close in the second quarter. Hope Wescott, Chamya Davis, Mariah Bey and Maliyah Gregg, the first graduates of My Daughter's Kitchen cooking program, return to the convent kitchen of St. Martin De Porres for a reunion and cooking season. Read more Mariah Bey, 17, was the first to arrive, though I didnt recognize her immediately. The young woman who walked into the convent kitchen wearing trendy glasses, skinny jeans, cropped jacket, and boots was so far from the shy little girl I had known six years ago. But as soon as she smiled, I knew exactly who she was. I wasnt going to miss this for the world, she said, enveloping me in a big hug. I told my mom I was leaving school early if I had to. I was so eager to catch up with Mariah and her classmates, the first students of My Daughters Kitchen, the class that pioneered the healthy cooking program that is now in 32 schools in Philadelphia and Camden. Four of the six girls I cooked with in the convent kitchen at St. Martin de Porres in North Philadelphia came from their respective high schools for a reunion last week to cook together again and chat about the class and how it impacted them. When I taught that first class six years ago, I witnessed real progress over the course of 10 weeks as the students learned how to hold a knife, peel and chop vegetables, read a recipe, measure ingredients. We made vegetable soup and turkey meat loaf, omelets, spinach salad with bacon, and salmon cakes as the girls tasted new foods and we talked about nutrition. I saw the girls take real pride in cooking for their families in the final class. But I always wondered, would the lessons stay with them, would they cook at home? Would it change the way they thought about food and impart the importance of healthy eating? There were shrieks of joy and lots of hugs as the girls reconnected with one another, with Sister Nancy Fitzgerald, their former principal, and with me in that familiar kitchen. And then, they got right to it, just like the cooking classes of old, especially with all but Mariah still in Catholic school uniforms. As they worked their way through the sloppy joe recipe, they were right at home, comfortably chopping onion and celery, measuring ketchup and Worcestershire sauce, and starting to saute the ground turkey on the stove. But they were honestly more interested in catching up than cooking, as some had not seen one another since they left St. Martins. They talked about everything and nothing, boyfriends, high school, their families, college and career plans, and how much they missed their elementary school. But their time in this convent kitchen had also stayed with them. I remember learning to slice onions for the first time here, said Maliyah Gregg, 16, a junior at Mercy Career and Technical High School. Remember how the kids from aftercare would come and beg us to pass them food through the window? said Hope Wescott, 17, who will graduate from Mercy and attend Harcum College in the fall. My family still makes me make the salmon cakes I learned in this class, said Chamya Davis, 17, a senior at Little Flower headed to Albright University in the fall. Now, I cook dinner all the time, she said. I got started here. And then, Dont the hallways all seem really small to you now? she asked. All the girls agreed they did. Im so jealous you all got together, said Jayla Reeves, 17, who couldnt make the reunion because she had prom that night but who called to check in. You taught us how to make fresh croutons, and I cant eat the ones out of a package anymore, said Reeves, a senior at John Hallahan Catholic who is headed to Bloomsburg in the fall. I do prefer healthy home cooking to eating out now, she said, though she admitted high school has her too busy to do much cooking herself. This is where I learned to make omelets, said Mariah, a sophomore at Multicultural Academy Charter School. But I know how to make a different kind now. Its called a fluffy omelet, she said, explaining how to separate the egg whites from the egg yolks and beat them separately and then fold them into the pan together. It comes out real fluffy. As they were chatting, Hopes eyes grew wide as they landed on the package of piecrusts on the table. Wait a minute, are we actually making pie? she asked. Yes, a few years ago, we added dessert to the last class, I told them. I brought ingredients to make blackberry hand pies. I remember that this class was about healthy eating, said Hope. I did learn that, about eating more vegetables and all, but I still eat bad, she said, being brutally honest. I just like all the bad stuff, she said. She has a part-time job at Five Guys and enjoys the burgers and fries. She loves fast food, loves hoagies, and often skips breakfast, as do most of the girls. But this class did get me cooking more, I will say that, she said. But the stuff I make is not always healthy, like fried chicken wings. That prompted Mariah to chime in: I have no choice but to eat healthy because of all the health problems Ive had, she said, chronicling her liver disease, blood disorder, and hearing loss, among other things. She also had her gall bladder removed. It hurts for my body to process things like fried chicken, she said. I have to eat breakfast in the morning or I suffer My sickness came out of nowhere and Im the only one in my family who has these problems, so they are still trying to figure it out. But the one thing I can do is eat right. Since this program, cooking has become my passion, she said. The first time I made my grandparents something to eat, they loved it. I was hooked. Now, I cook all the time. My boyfriend loves my cooking. I make a chicken dinner with mushrooms and spinach and garlic, I make roast chicken, I make corn bread. I want to go to cooking school at Johnson & Wales. I really think that this is what I am called to do, she said. Maliyah was the meat lover and the veggie-phobe in the group. We all remembered her spitting out the broccoli in the vegetable soup, pronouncing it the worst soup ever. She was the one who begged to eat only the bacon in the spinach and bacon salad, the one who spat out the grape tomato because it didnt taste like a grape. Did she eat any more vegetables, she was asked. Oh, yeah, she said. Now I eat cauliflower, broccoli, string beans Oh, you progressed, Mariah said with pride. And I do eat onions, said Maliyah, because they do give the meat a little bit of flavor. My eyes filled up and I gave her a high-five: That one sentence alone made my day, I said. It tells me you really are a cook. The visit with these girls only reinforced my commitment, underscoring how transformational the program can be especially for a 10-year-old with a strong aversion to vegetables. This class taught me to change the way I thought about things, Maliyah said. It taught me to take chances and not to be afraid of risks. It taught me to be courageous. Contact Maureen Fitzgerald at mydaughterskitchen@gmail.com. To read about previous classes, go to philly.com/mydaughter. Sloppy Joe Sliders with Quick Pickled Cucumbers Makes 6 servings 1 1/2 pounds ground turkey 1 medium onion, chopped, small dice 3 celery stalks, chopped, small dice 1/3 cup ketchup 1/3 cup water 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce 1/8 teaspoon red pepper sauce like Tabasco (or more to taste) 1/2 teaspoon salt 12 whole-wheat potato slider rolls Quick pickled cucumbers (see note) 1. Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Add ground turkey, onion, and celery and cook, stirring frequently. 2. Once the turkey is light brown and no pink remains, stir in ketchup, water, Worcestershire sauce, red pepper sauce, and salt. 3. Cover and cook over low heat until vegetables are tender, about 15 minutes. Meanwhile, toast slider rolls in the oven, if desired. 4. To serve, spoon turkey mixture onto the bottom of a roll and top with quick pickled cucumbers. Cover with the top of the roll and serve. Note: To make quick pickled cucumber, combine 1/3 cup sugar, 1/3 cup white vinegar, 3 tablespoons water, and 1/2 teaspoon salt in a small bowl and stir to dissolve. Add 2 medium cucumbers, peeled and sliced thin. Let stand at least 15 minutes at room temperature. Per serving: 355 calories, 14 grams fat, 116 milligrams cholesterol, 450 grams sodium, 482 grams potassium, 28 grams carbohydrates, 9 grams sugar, 34 grams protein. Councilman Mark Squilla, pictured here in April, has attempted to re-zone a potential spot for a supervised-injection site in his district. But in the legal no-man's-land that is a supervised-injection site, it's unclear what power council actually has to block a site. Read more As Philadelphias municipal primary draws near, some City Council hopefuls have made opposition to supervised injection sites key parts of their campaigns. But because the proposal exists in a legal no-mans-land with a federal lawsuit over its legality still moving through the courts its unclear what a sitting Council member could do, at least legislatively, to block the opening of a supervised injection site in Philadelphia. When Mayor Jim Kenneys administration announced last year it would allow creation of a place where people can use drugs under medical supervision, be revived if they overdose, and access treatment, city officials said they didnt need Councils approval. A private entity, not the city, is to fund and operate the site. Still, said Alicia Taylor, the citys deputy communications director, We believe overdose-prevention sites will save lives, and we plan to actively engage all local stakeholders, including Council members, before any facility is opened." At a symposium on the opioid crisis at the University of Pennsylvania on Friday, Kenney called the citys overdose rate one of the worst crises, I think, that Ive lived through. Were looking at all the different possibilities to address this problem, including overdose prevention sites, he said. Which, of course, in an election year, you get pilloried because you even think about saving peoples lives. People complain about that. Both of Kenneys opponents in the Democratic mayoral primary, state Sen. Anthony Hardy Williams and former city controller Alan Butkovitz, oppose opening supervised injection sites. Kenney added on Friday that quality of life issues in Kensington, the neighborhood most affected by open drug use and overdoses, and which is widely considered the most likely place for a site to open, might be addressed by opening a site where people can inject indoors and have a safe place to discard their needles. Advocates, too, say the sites are necessary to save lives in a city where more than 3,000 people have died of overdoses over the last three years, making Philadelphias the worst urban opioid crisis in the country. Last year, a nonprofit, Safehouse, incorporated to open a site, but has not signed a lease or raised enough funding to open. But thats not to say Council hasnt floated efforts to block a site. Earlier this year, after Safehouse announced that it had been offered a lease in a commercial building in his district in Kensington, Councilman Mark Squilla whose opponent in the 1st District, Lou Lanni, also opposes the sites introduced a bill to rezone the property for residential use only. State Rep. Angel Cruz, who opposes the sites, also mentioned zoning changes to block one from opening. Hes challenging Councilwoman Maria Quinones-Sanchez for her 7th District seat, which also includes parts of Kensington. Squilla said his rezoning bill, first reported by WHYY, is an effort to give residents input; a rezoning effort would require hearings by the citys zoning board. But all the zoning talk may be a moot point, Squilla acknowledged, because theres nothing in city regulations or zoning code to allow or restrict a supervised injection site. If they say its a legal act, and permitted within a certain zoning, and that zoning is there, then [a supervised injection site] could operate, he said. But I guess the [federal] court ruling will decide how that will move forward," he said, referring to a request by the U.S. Attorneys Office to clarify whether the sites are legal. Erika Almiron, a longtime activist who supports the sites and is running for an at-large seat, says she believes her role in the debate is to facilitate conversation." (Most of the support for a supervised injection site among Council candidates comes from those vying for at-large seats, who are generally expected to yield to district Council members on real estate matters, such as zoning.) We need to really address addiction and what its meant for communities of color. How do we rectify what the War on Drugs has done to our communities?" she said. But our communities are also still suffering from addiction. How do we address that fact, with all of us? I can see some healing that can happen about having a forthright conversation on what we do next." Former Pennsylvania Gov. and Philadelphia Mayor Ed Rendell, one of Safehouses board members, said he believes a site would need commercial zoning. Failing a veto from the mayor, Rendell said, he would consider legal action if a Council member attempted to spot-zone a property to block a facility. Rendell has experience backing a harm-reduction measure: As mayor in 1992, he supported Prevention Point, the citys first and only needle exchange, despite the fact that Pennsylvania law doesnt allow such a service. Then, Council didnt have much of a role in the proceedings, he said. I discussed it with Council President [John F.] Street, and whoever was the councilperson who represented that district at the time," he said. They were much more understanding." Still, five years after it opened, some Council members tried to shut down the needle exchange. Providing clean syringes has long been accepted globally as a public health measure, given how HIV, hepatitis, and other infectious disease can be spread via reused needles. Yet one councilwoman expressed concerns that the program operated in residential areas and may promote the use of illegal drugs," and called the exchange morally wrong, an Inquirer reporter wrote in 1997. Such arguments now are being deployed against a supervised injection site. The proposal was tabled after other Council members, including Kenney, then a councilman-at-large, opposed it. Needle exchanges are still technically illegal in Pennsylvania, but operate in several cities at the discretion of local prosecutors. The success of Philadelphias own needle exchange, Rendell said, is whats driving him to back Safehouse. Quinones-Sanchez, who has represented Kensington for years, said she opposes a supervised injection site because she believes the city hasnt shown its capable of running one properly. If a site is to open in the neighborhood, she said, the city must win the trust of residents in a neighborhood neglected for decades and decimated by mass incarcerations mainly of people of color during the 1980s War on Drugs. Its easy to conceptually be for something. But concept and implementation are very different. Residents are the ones who need to be heard, she said, and we need to restore confidence by restoring quality of life. The entrance of Thomas Jefferson University Hospital at 10th and Chestnut Streets, where employer-sponsored health plans pay 636 percent more than Medicare for outpatient care, or non-urgent services that doesnt require being admitted to the hospital, according to the RAND report. (Michael Bryant / Staff Photographer) Read more Have health insurance through your employer? Your plan is probably paying hundreds if not thousands of dollars more for hospital services compared with Medicare. A new report by the Rand Corp. found that employer-sponsored plans routinely pay twice or even three times as much as Medicare for the same hospital services. Whats more, the markup that private plans pay varies significantly by state. Health care is a major business expense for any company, yet many dont have a strong grasp of what theyre paying for it or whether theyre getting a good deal. Employers spend billions of dollars in hospital care and, for the most part, are in the dark on pricing. They have no idea if one hospital in the area is more expensive than the other, and that limits their ability to rein in health-care costs, said Chris Whaley, an associate policy researcher for Rand and study co-author. That has a direct impact on the 156 million people covered by an employer health plan. As costs continue to rise, employers are shifting the burden to workers. Premiums for employer-sponsored plans rose 55 percent over the last decade, twice as fast as workers earnings. Deductibles the amount people pay on their own before the plan takes over rose 212 percent during that time, according to the Kaiser Family Foundation. Ultimately, it falls on employees, said Chapin White, an adjunct senior policy researcher for Rand and lead author of the study. The concept of private insurers, who must negotiate rates with hospitals, paying more than publicly funded Medicare, which sets its own rates, is not new. But the Rand report brings into focus the magnitude of the gap. For example, at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, employer-sponsored health plans pay 636 percent more than Medicare for outpatient care, or non-urgent services that dont require being admitted to the hospital, according to the report. Statewide, employer-sponsored health plans paid 144 percent more for outpatient hospital services compared with Medicare. Rand researchers analyzed 2015-2017 data for about $13 billion in hospital spending from self-insured employers, state-based all-payer claims databases, and health plans in 25 states (New Jersey was not among the states studied). They compared negotiated rates for employer health plans with Medicare reimbursement rates for the same procedures and facilities. In Pennsylvania, most hospital claims data came from employers in the western part of the state. Researchers included hospitals if there were at least 11 claims from the employer plans that contributed data. As a result, a few Philadelphia-area hospitals, including Jefferson and the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania (where employers paid 233 percent more than Medicare for outpatient services) made it into the report. Rand hopes to expand its research to include more employers in Eastern Pennsylvania in its next report. The study was supported by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, the National Institute for Health Care Reform, the Health Foundation of Greater Indianapolis and employers who contributed their health plan data. Researchers found that in every state they studied, employer plans paid more for hospital services compared with Medicare but how much more varied significantly by state. Employers in Michigan, for example, paid 56 percent more than Medicare for all hospital services (inpatient and outpatient), while their neighbors to the south in Indiana paid 211 percent more than Medicare. Hospitals say that Medicare underpays for services and that they are forced to negotiate higher rates with private plans to compensate. And Medicaid generally pays less than Medicare. The Hospital and Healthsystem Association of Pennsylvania recently commissioned a study that found Medicaid pays hospitals about 81 percent of the cost of providing care to Medicaid beneficiaries, said Jeff Bechtel, senior vice president of health economics and policy for the association. He declined to provide a copy of the study. Hospitals need to pay their bills and pay the 24-hour, seven-day-a-week services to individuals that depend on their care and because of the lower government payer rates, its necessary and not surprising that rates for commercial payers are higher, Bechtel said. Jefferson declined to comment. Other studies have challenged that long-touted explanation. White reported in a 2013 Health Affairs article that at hospitals where Medicare rates went down, private payer rates declined, too. The Rand study didnt draw conclusions about why employers in some states are paying so much more than in other states, but White and Whaley said the data show the need for more transparency in pricing. While some employers buy health plans from insurers, most large companies self-fund, meaning the health plan withdraws money directly from the company to pay employees medical expenses. They may not know exactly what theyre buying or what theyre paying. Its a ludicrous arrangement. Employers need to demand price information and not just trust that everything is going to work out to their benefit, Chapin said. Neil Goldfarb, CEO of the Greater Philadelphia Business Coalition on Health, said he hopes the Rand report will encourage more local employers to take a closer look at their health plans. The coalition is a group of about 40 Philadelphia-area businesses that have come together to move the needle on health-cost issues that they lack leverage to address individually. The task is one that may seem daunting to executives with big businesses to run and hundreds of employees to manage, Goldfarb said, but he thinks the Rand report will give employers information they can use to open a conversation about more equitable pricing and price transparency. Theres a lot of learned helplessness I cant influence the health plans, I cant influence the providers some employers will say Im not in the business of health care, he said. Thats an attitude that businesses spending millions on health insurance cant afford to have, he said. There are several convenient ways to dispose of the unused or expired medicines in your home. Read more On one weekend in late April, large boxes tagged with Dont be a dealer posters popped up across the nation to serve as a simple way to help combat the opioid epidemic. The Drug Enforcement Administrations National Prescription Drug Take Back Day encouraged people to get dangerous medications out of their homes by dumping them in oversized boxes at community sites, often hosted at fire and police stations. For those who participated over the April 27 to 28 weekend, the next Monday morning marked a job well-done; they used the event to make their communities safer. For those of us at the Poison Control Center at Childrens Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), it was back to work as usual. As public health practitioners, we know the problem far too well to be tempted to rest on our laurels. Every day, we receive emergency calls related to prescription drug abuse, self-harm attempts, and accidental ingestions. Most of the calls we receive come from inside a home. A small child finds a mysterious bottle of medicine on a tabletop or in a junk drawer. A teen or adult decides to try out a painkiller, or maybe a dozen of them. An adult mistakenly takes a spouses old post-surgery medicine since the prescription bottles look the same. A frantic caregiver worries if a loved one needs go to the hospital. Our pharmacist and nurse experts calm the caller down while investigating the situation and triage the case to appropriate care. You can help prevent these situations from happening to your own family by taking personal responsibility to safely dispose of and safely store the medicines in your home. Once theyre no longer needed or expired, its time to get them out of your home. There are several convenient ways to keep your family and community safe: First choice: Take your medicine to a year-round drug disposal site While National Prescription Drug Take Back Day is a great way to encourage community involvement in fighting the opioid epidemic, you are not limited to the semi-annual event. You can use the DEAs website to find your closest year-round drug take back site by entering your zip code here. It may be your pharmacy, so plan to bring in your unused or expired medicines next time you need to pick something up. Second choice: Safe at-home disposal If it is not convenient for you to take your medicine to a drug take-back site, you can safely dispose of medicines at home in three simple steps: Mix the medicine with something you wouldnt want to eat, such as coffee grounds, kitty litter, or leftovers. Put the mixture in a container and seal it. An empty margarine tub works great. Get creative! Throw it away. Easy and safe! Third choice: The FDAs Flush List The Food and Drug Administration has a list of about 15 dangerous medicines that should be flushed down the toilet if they cannot be taken to a drug take-back site. Most are opioids. The small list of drugs was carefully chosen because they are all known to cause severe side effects, including respiratory depression and death, among those not meant to use them. Sadly, 9,500 children under the age of six are hospitalized annually after ingesting someone elses FDA Flush List drug. We are always balancing the risks and benefits of the environmental impact of drug disposal. However, the FDAs Flush List is incredibly small in comparison to all drugs on the market, and the convenience of this simple action has potential to save lives. Remember to safely store the medicine you need to use: Make sure all medicine is stored up high, out of the reach and sight of children. Consider purchasing a cabinet lock. If guests are entering your home with medicine in their purses, make sure the purses are out of the reach of small children; they love to explore a new bag, especially grandmas. Never let babies play with pill minders or bottles as a rattle For highly dangerous medications (such as those on the FDAs Flush List), consider purchasing a medicine lock bag. Dont store these medicines in the more public places in your home or where teens could have easy access. Remember, your regional Poison Control Center is always ready to help with your drug and chemical safety questions, both big and small. Save 1-800-222-1222 as a contact on your phone. The number will immediately connect you with pharmacist and nurse experts. If you live in eastern Pennsylvania or Delaware, youll be connected with us at CHOP. We are here 24/7, always free of cost, and free of judgment. Lauren Longo, MSPH, is a health education specialist at the Poison Control Center at Childrens Hospital of Philadelphia. This is a safe-injection site in Vancouver, B.C., believed to be the first such sanctioned facility in North America. A clandestine site has been operating in the United States since 2014. (Lindsey Wasson/The Seattle Times/TNS) Read more Even as advocates in U.S. cities including Philadelphia have struggled to open supervised injection sites to help stop fatal overdoses, a clandestine site has been operating somewhere in the country since 2014. Researchers studying the site, where people can inject drugs and be revived by medical staff if they overdose, recently released data collected there since its opening. Clients can visit the site only by invitation. The site supervised 9,085 injections by 540 people between September 2014 and April 2019, and staffers there reversed 26 overdoses. That might seem like a low number, said Barrot Lambdin, a senior epidemiologist at RTI International, the North Carolina-based research nonprofit that conducted the study. But it represents a worrying spike in overdoses: In 2015, staffers at the site reported only one overdose for every 1,000 injections. By the first half of this year, they were reporting one overdose for every 167 injections. Its a trend mirrored on Philadelphias streets, as lethal fentanyl has infiltrated virtually all of the citys heroin supply. If you can imagine this is reflective of whats occurring in the community, that is a massive overdose rate that would take a massive effort to respond to on a community basis, Lambdin said. Yet unlike the local situation, deaths in this supervised injection site do not follow overdoses. Despite the rapid rise in overdoses, the death rate [in the site] has remained at zero. Were seeing results similar to sites in other locations outside the United States, Lambdin said. Supervised injection sites have existed in Canada and Europe for decades, and no one has ever died in one. But efforts to open a site in the U.S. only began in earnest in the last few years. Cities that have decided to sanction them have faced legislative backlash or delayed their efforts. Philadelphia advocates looking to open a site were sued by the U.S. Attorneys Office earlier this year. The suit asks a judge to rule that the sites were illegal based on the crack-house statute, a federal law that makes knowingly opening or maintaining any place for the purpose of manufacturing, distributing, or using controlled substances a felony punishable by up to 20 years in prison. Advocates responded, in a countersuit, that the sites are a legitimate public health measure in a city where more than 3,000 people have died of overdoses in three years. The clandestine site has been quietly operating for years. Lambdins data, presented at a harm-reduction conference in Portugal last month and funded by the progressive philanthropy LLC Arnold Ventures, didnt closely examine the sites effect on the community in which it is located. There have been no reports of negative consequences from the site, no acute complications, no violence," he said. Its largely been able to operate without being noticed. According to prior research on the site, published in 2017, a social service agency in an urban area of the U.S. operates the site. The agency provides other social services that are open to the general public, wrote researchers Alex Kral, also an RTI epidemiologist, and Peter Davidson, an assistant professor at the University of San Diego. Once a person comes to the agency a few times and appears to need supervised injection services, they are invited to use the supervised injection room. About 60 people at a given time had active privileges at the site, they wrote. The sites layout is similar to supervised injection sites elsewhere in the world: There are two large rooms, one for injection and one where clients can rest afterward, Lambdin said. Clients inject drugs (which they have brought with them) at six stainless-steel stations with tables, clean needles, and mirrors for accurate injections a botched injection or a missed vein can result in life-threatening infected abscesses. A staffer inside the first room watches and dispenses the overdose-reversing drug naloxone if necessary. The site has not contributed to the spread of any infectious diseases, Lambdin said, and about 90 percent of clients reported that they would have injected in public had the site not been available to them. He said the site had prevented an estimated 8,400 public injections. The 2017 study included the results of an anonymous survey that staffers presented to clients every time they injected, between 2014 and 2016. The overwhelming majority of clients at the site were white men, and nearly everyone using the site was homeless. Heroin was the most frequently used drug at the site, but users also brought in opioid pills, methamphetamine, cocaine, and crack though ventilation concerns led the site to ban smoking inside. Thirteen percent of injections were a mix of drugs, like a speedball, a combination of heroin and cocaine. Six percent of clients reported having overdosed in the previous month outside the site. Also, 25 percent said they had witnessed an overdose in the same time period. Lambdin said that his research teams data suggest American cities should consider the sites as a tool to prevent overdoses. Given the constant concern about police, or some sort of interdiction by law enforcement, these are, to me, very promising results given the intense and difficult environment the site is operating in, he said. I would advocate as a scientist that we be willing to try it, and study it rigorously. I hope we find the courage to do it. President Donald Trump speaks during a event on medical billing, in the Roosevelt Room of the White House, Thursday, May 9, 2019, in Washington. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci) Read more President Donald Trump on Thursday urged Congress to address surprise medical bills, which can leave patients with hundreds of dollars in medical expenses they werent expecting. Surprise bills occur when patients go to a hospital or medical facility that is in their insurance plans network, but are unknowingly treated by a provider who does not have a contract with the insurance plan. In many states, including Pennsylvania, out-of-network doctors can bill patients directly for services that arent covered by their insurance plan. Some states, including New Jersey, have established laws or regulations that protect patients from these unexpected costs, which typically arise when patients have little ability to have avoided them. For example, hospitals commonly supplement their emergency department staff with contracted doctors who arent bound by the hospitals insurance contracts. Ambulances that respond to emergency calls commonly do not contract with insurers, though patients assume they do. You may have double-checked that the doctor and outpatient clinic performing your colonoscopy is in-network, but what about the anesthesiologist? This must end. Were going to hold insurance companies and hospitals totally accountable, Trump said during an appearance Thursday with patients, Politico reported. While Republicans and Democrats largely disagree about how to improve the health-care system, surprise medical bills may be an issue on which they can come together. A bipartisan group of senators is expected to introduce this month a bill that addresses surprise billing, and two of the groups leaders Sen. Bill Cassidy (R., La.) and Sen. Maggie Hassan (D., N.H.) attended Trumps event Thursday, according to the Washington Post. One approach some states have taken is to require arbitration for insurers and providers to come to an agreement on payment, while holding patients harmless. Last year, New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy signed legislation requiring hospitals to notify patients if they will be treated by an out-of-network provider and setting up an independent arbitration process to settle disputes. Trump has said he does not support an arbitration approach, but would support charging patients in-network rates even if theyre treated by an out-of-network doctor in an emergency; sending patients a single, consolidated bill; and informing patients in advance of any out-of-network providers, Politico reported. When reigning Miss USA Cheslie Kryst and Miss Teen USA Kaliegh Garris were crowned last week, they made all kinds of #BlackGirlMagic history as they joined Miss America Nia Franklin in the role of the countrys most supreme beauty queens. After centuries of seemingly endless horse manure about why black women especially the darker-hued among us arent as beautiful as white ladies, this validation is undeniable. At this moment in time, black women have been deemed the most beautiful and elegant women in the country. I can get with that. My surge of excitement, followed by a burst of good, old-fashioned we-have-overcome pride, was short-lived. Try as I might, I was torn. On one hand, I wanted to celebrate these gorgeous womens achievements and bask in the glow of being one step closer to our elusive racially equitable society that is most certainly on the horizon. Right? But I couldnt help but think that while we were reveling in this achievement, black women (and men) are still defending our beauty choices. Its to the point that last month, Los Angeles Democratic Sen. Holly J. Mitchell was compelled to introduce a bill in the California state legislature that bans schools and workplaces from writing dress codes that forbid braids, twists, and other hairstyles that are suited to a black persons natural hair. For years, Mitchell argued, black people have had to use untoward techniques and harmful chemicals to manipulate their hair into unnatural states that are acceptable to a Eurocentric beauty standard to not just fit into the status quo, but also to be considered clean and well-groomed. The law, appropriately referred to as the C.R.O.W.N. law, an acronym for Create a Respectful and Open Workplace for Natural hair, passed the California State Senate and is now on its way to the State Assembly. Mitchell introduced it, she said, because she was weary of seeing black children and teenagers like Buena Vista wrestler Andrew Johnson, whose locks were sheared at the behest of match referee Alan Maloney humiliated "because their natural hair was deemed unruly or a distraction to others. Speaking of locks, in March, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 11th Circuit ruled that its legal to refuse to hire a person with dreadlocks. This was after Catastrophe Management, a company in Mobile, Ala., rescinded a job offer to Chastity Jones because she wore the style. The companys human resources manager reportedly told Jones her hair was unkempt. So basically a style that lends itself to a healthy head of hair I am living proof of that is subject to discrimination because certain people say it can be unkempt. Are you kidding me? The amount of messy buns I see in the office... Sigh. I can hear the critics now: The regulars will call me an ingrate and racist race-baiter who should leave well enough alone. Thats the problem. In this politically correct world, you people are never happy. And then there are those who will call me a Debbie Downer. Why cant we just enjoy the wins because we have so many losses? Here is why it matters: For this first-ever black triumvirate in pageant history to be a real beauty win, all black women need to be able to sit comfortably in their natural beauty wherever they are work, school, play, and on the pageant stage. That means we shouldnt have to explain our curves. We shouldnt feel some kind of way about our full lips or our broad noses. We need not be brown versions of the white ideal. And I want to be clear, Kryst, Garris, and Franklin are exceptional women who clearly had to overcome many hurdles to arrive here. And they get to choose how they wear their hair whether in natural curls or bodacious weaves. A womans hair her crown is where personal freedom begins. Whether her hair is styled in a crazy, kinky Afro, an obedient trail of cornrows, the military precision of box braids, the defiant loops of anything-but-dreadful dreadlocks, her hair needs to be welcomed everywhere from the boardroom to the pageant stage. A womans inner strength is tied, whether we like it or not, to how beautiful she sees herself. And for black women, it means even more because from the moment we walked on these shores, our hair was sheared or manipulated to be anything other than what it was meant to be. Our hair doesnt define our character, but theres no denying that when a black woman believes shes perfectly fine as she is, it opens her up to the belief that she can do anything from being a Supreme Court justice to writing code for the latest tech advancement to sweeping Americas top beauty pageants. There are many people who shape and love us. Read more This Mothers Day, Id like to celebrate the women who loved, mentored, and supported me despite having no blood relation the moms who arent Mom. I bet youve known some women like this at different points in your life, maybe a teacher, a friends mother, or a mentor at work. I had the best biological mother a girl could ask for, but there were additional, important women in my life who mothered me in their own ways. The first was my moms best friend and my godmother, Franca. Like a sister to my mother, Franca is like an aunt to me, but the best aunt ever. I grew up with her kids, her daughter was my first friend, and we still spend holidays together. Franca showed me unconditional love from the day I was born. I had no genetic claim to it. All I did was show up, and she was happy to see me. She operated on the assumption that I was a great little person to be around, and it made me strive to be one. Our relationship has become more special to me as Ive grown older. I trust her implicitly and appreciate that I can get her advice without the pressure of a mother-daughter interaction. Shes a great listener, because its not her job to have all the answers. If Franca isnt family, I dont know what family is. Sometimes, you need a mom whos completely different from your own. That was Nan, my riding instructor when I was a teenager. I was cautious, a perfectionist, the type of kid who didnt give her mother anything to worry about. That virtue has its limits. Nan taught me to take measured risk, to step outside my comfort zone and push my abilities. Unlike my mother, Nan didnt think my falling off a horse was a big deal. Not because she didnt care if I got hurt, but because she knew Id bounce. Under her unworried watch, I got better and braver. Among the many life lessons Nan taught me: Ask for what you want and mean it! Dont dwell on a mistake, just collect yourself and try again. She taught me to trust myself and value my judgment above any blue ribbon, high score, or even her praise. I knew Id ridden well when I heard Nan call out, Feel the difference? The approval I needed was my own. I havent ridden seriously in more than a decade, but Im still grateful for Nans voice in my head. Laura is my grown-up mom, by which I mean the mom I need as an adult. Laura is a former book publicist, now my moms assistant and BFF. To be clear, Laura is not old enough to be my mother. But shes wiser than I am, and I rely on her experience for everything from publishing to city living. Youd think having a mother whos a best-selling author is all the professional mentorship Id need, but youd be mistaken. Shes an Italian mother first, a writer second; shes too biased to be of critical value. And a daughter is a daughter forever, so when my mom does give me feedback, I take it too personally, and its an instant fight. Laura is objective, relatively. We love each other, but she can tell it to me straight, and, most important, I can hear it. Shes a font of practical knowledge. Laura knows what to say in that work email, when to call the electrician instead of the super, and when its high time I dump that loser. Shes the most together person Ive ever met, and she makes me appear more together to my actual parents. Laura is like my cheat sheet on adulthood. I dont know how to properly thank or repay these women. But I do hope I can pay their love forward and be a similar, positive influence on my close friends children. Rebecca, my best friend from college, has a year-old daughter, Nadine, whom I absolutely adore. I love watching Nadine get excited to pet Pip, and I have an iPhone full of pictures and videos of her sticking out her tongue to imitate his panting. Rebecca never had pets growing up, she jokes about having to get Nadine a dog someday, and I cant wait to be the one to help them find the perfect pup or pony! or anything her little heart desires. Just like I would love to teach Francas grandson to paint watercolors when hes older. And how I cant wait to meet my childhood best friends baby, who arrives this fall. If any of them grows up to be a writer, I hope they know whom to call for (secretly, harmlessly biased) advice. In whatever way these kids need me, Ill be there for them, just like my not-Mom moms were there for me. For Franca, Nan, and Laura, being so involved in my life was a choice. For me, it was an honor and privilege. Thank you, and Happy Mothers Day. CFPB Director Kathleen Kraninger, seen testifying before Congress, says the agency will focus on "empowering consumers to help themselves" through education outreach. Read more A federal plan that would allow debt collectors to send unlimited texts or emails to borrowers until consumers opt out but would limit how often collectors can call them was condemned by consumer groups on Wednesday during an event in Philadelphia, while those in the collection business tepidly praised the proposal. The mixed reaction came a day after the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau unveiled the highly anticipated plan to revise decades-old rules on debt collectors. Debt collection drew roughly 81,500 complaints to the bureau in 2018, making it one of the top sources of consumer complaints related to financial products and services. If approved, the proposal would generally limit the number of times a debt collector could try to call someone to seven times a week. After speaking to a consumer, a debt collector would have to wait at least a week to call again. There is currently no limit on the number of debt collection calls, though collectors are barred from calling before 8 a.m. and after 9 p.m. A collector calling too frequently could be considered illegal harassment under existing law. The draft rules would allow companies to send electronic communications, such as text messages or emails, though consumers could opt out at any time. Unlike with phone calls, the bureau did not propose a specific cap on how many times a debt collector can email or text a consumer. The CFPB brought the plan to Philadelphia on Wednesday for a panel discussion at the University of Pennsylvanias Houston Hall, where consumer groups said the draft regulations would fail to rein in predatory practices. The proposed rules come as those consumer advocates accuse the Trump-controlled bureau of taking actions that benefit industry. On Wednesday, debt collectors largely welcomed the proposal, saying it would bring clarity to what is permitted and prohibited. Michael Froehlich, a consumer rights lawyer for Community Legal Services in Philadelphia, called the draft rules a huge missed opportunity to really address some of the predatory and unlawful actions that our clients face every day. In particular, Froehlich noted the seven-call limit would apply to a specific debt, so consumers with several debts in collection could still be inundated with phone calls. As an example, he said a client had racked up $120,000 in student loan debt through eight different accounts. Under this proposed rule, debt collectors can call her 56 times per week, he said. If you dont have the money, you dont have the money. For her, the 10th call is not going to change that, and the 20th call is not going to change that." Consumer groups had wanted a three-call weekly limit, while debt collectors were unhappy with the potential seven-call cap, calling it arbitrary. There isnt any empirical evidence that the number is the right number or even an accurate number, said Mark Neeb, chief executive of ACA International, a trade group representing collection agencies, creditors, debt buyers, and lawyers. Our concern there is that not all debt is the same. [There are] different types of debt, different ages of debt, different stages of it being worked. So there is not a one-size-fits-all for debt collection. Still, Neeb was happy the proposal would explicitly permit collectors to contact consumers electronically, a somewhat gray area currently. When it comes to electronic communication, debt collectors are afraid of overstepping bounds because they didnt know what those bounds were, he said. While the draft regulations set no limit on how many texts or emails a collector can send, a bureau spokesperson said it could be considered harassment under current rules if a collector sent too many messages. The proposed rule would prohibit debt collectors from contacting a consumer at a work email address unless given prior consent by the borrower. In addition, the proposed rule would update the disclosures that debt collectors must send consumers and would prohibit a debt collector from suing or threatening to sue a consumer to collect time-barred debt if the collector knows or should know that the statute of limitations has expired. The bureaus proposal seeks to update regulations implementing the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, a 1977 law passed long before millions of Americans carried cell phones, said CFPB Director Kathy Kraninger, who addressed the crowd before the panel discussion. The law was written at the time of telegrams, not emails. Landlines, not cell phones. And postcards, not texting, Kraninger said. Our proposed rules are designed to provide clarity where it was been lacking so consumers know their rights and collectors know their limitations. The bureau will accept and review public comments on the proposal for 90 days before implementing new regulations. Artist Michelle Angela Ortiz in her South Philadelphia studio this month. She spoke to mothers held at the Berks detention center about their lives, hopes and dreams, including one mother and son who were deported to El Salvador. Read more The film opens with a plaintive voice coming over talk-show radio. Its Karen, phoning from inside the immigrant family detention center in Berks County, where she and her young son have been held for more than a year. Shes worried about him, that his life has become traumatic. They were first detained at the Mexican border by federal authorities, then sent to Pennsylvania for what she thought would be a quick release to local family members. Later in the film, its revealed that by the time they left the Berks center deported to El Salvador in 2017, their asylum claim denied she and her son had spent 651 days in custody. And the boy, then about 7, had twice tried to kill himself, using a plastic identification card to dig at his wrists. You cant really get over something like that, she says. Karen is one of Las Madres de Berks, four undocumented immigrant mothers whose lives inside and outside the Berks center form the heart of an impassioned new documentary by Philadelphia artist and activist Michelle Angela Ortiz. I see them as heroines, Ortiz said in an interview. As mothers, sometimes our work goes unnoticed, and our sacrifices are not as valued. Ortiz, 40, is a painter and muralist, known for Familias Separadas, her series of public artworks centered on Pennsylvania families affected by detention and deportation. Her canvases are big spaces, like the Capitol steps in Harrisburg and the front gate at City Hall in Philadelphia. She has much in common with the people in her documentary. Ortiz is mother to a 4-year-old son. Shes the second of three children born to a mother from Colombia and a father from Puerto Rico. Neither parent made it as far as high school back home. They came to the U.S. mainland separately some 50 years ago, met and married, their passage to a better life taking form in a home near the Italian Market in South Philadelphia. When Ortiz was growing up, her mother worked as a cook for a prominent Italian family, and her father cleaned floors and offices in Center City. The scraps of paper he collected at work became Ortizs first sketchbooks. Now, in partnership with the Shut Down Berks Coalition, an advocacy group, she has turned to film to offer a new chapter in an immigration story that continues to trouble the American conscience. Leaving home in El Salvador, says one mother, Sofia, was something we never imagined wed do. But as violence worsened driven by poverty and gang warfare her young son pleaded: Lets go, Mama. I dont want anything bad to happen to you or me. The four women are identified only by pseudonyms and shown in shadow. None is still jailed at Berks. None has fully recovered from the experience. As Ortiz interviewed the women, she wondered: What would I do for my child if I was faced with the same conditions? She hopes people who see the film will ask themselves the same question. The narrative of the United States internecine war over immigration has focused on events at the southern border, in communities in Texas, Arizona, and New Mexico. But Las Madres shows how the furor reaches into Northern states like Pennsylvania and even tiny towns like Leesport, population 1,891, set 75 miles northwest of Philadelphia. Whats formally known as the Berks County Residential Center vilified by critics as a baby jail opened in 2001, the oldest and smallest of three federal lockups that hold undocumented immigrant parents and their children. The two other centers are in Texas. The redbrick facility is run by Berks County under an agreement with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, a police arm of the Department of Homeland Security. The families have not been charged with crimes but are detained to make sure they show up for immigration hearings. Most came to the United States seeking asylum, escaping dangerous conditions in El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras. Nearly 10 percent of the 30 million residents of those Northern Triangle countries have left their homes, most of them trying to reach the United States, according to the Council on Foreign Relations. Some children and parents spent nearly two years in the low-security lockup, awaiting court hearings and rulings. The centers population has fluctuated dramatically. At one point, 80 of 96 beds were filled. As President Donald Trump cracked down on border-crossers, immigration advocates braced for an influx of new families who never arrived. Instead, the administration has left about 2,000 beds unused at the three detention centers. The sheer volume of family units crossing the border has overwhelmed ICEs limited transportation resources, ICE said in a statement. Today, the Berks center is mostly empty, its population down to four people in April and about 12 this month. This is the lowest its ever been, said Jasmine Rivera, a leader in the Shut Down Berks Coalition, which wants the center closed and turned into a residential drug-treatment facility. She and other activists have targeted the Berks center for vigils and protests, asserting that the people inside have been mistreated and that, as health experts point out, incarceration is physically and psychologically harmful to children. Its as if they dont have children of their own, says a mother in the film. ICE and Berks officials maintain that the center is safe and well-run, a humane means of keeping families intact amid their immigration proceedings. How do the mothers stories end? One was deported. One is dead, fleeing violence in her homeland only to find it in her home in this country, stabbed to death last year at age 25 in a family dispute. Two have been released and live freely, fulfilling mandatory check-ins with ICE as their legal cases go forward. Its a mark, a trauma that we will always carry with us, one says. But thank God, we were able to leave this center. Upcoming free screenings: Thursday, May 9, 5:30 p.m. Pennsylvania Immigration and Citizenship Coalition, 2100 Arch St., 4th Floor, Philadelphia. 5:30-7:30 pm Saturday, June 1, 2:15 p.m. Philadelphia Latino Film Festival, Terra Hall, University of the Arts, 211 S. Broad St., Philadelphia. Monday, June 3, 7 p.m. South Philly Barbacoa, 1140 S. Ninth St., Philadelphia. Council President Darrell L. Clarke, left, and Councilwoman Jannie Blackwell, right, walk together earlier this week after a groundbreaking at the Sharswood public housing development. Read more City Council President Darrell L. Clarke proposed legislation Thursday to close loopholes in Philadelphias disjointed land sale process that have enabled developers to buy public lots below market value, then develop or resell the properties for large profits at taxpayer expense. Clarkes bill follows Inquirer and Daily News reports outlining how developers had taken financial advantage of shortcomings in the system. The legislation would require city approval before a purchaser could resell property acquired from the city. It also calls for the citys Vacant Property Review Committee whose chair is appointed by Clarke to review the appraisal of a propertys fair market value before sending it to the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority, which is responsible for executing the sale. Clarke also said he wants to make it easier for the city to revoke a land sale when a purchaser doesnt follow through with a proposed plan or lets the property sit for more than 18 months without development. At that time, were going to send inspectors out, and if youre not doing something, were going to start the revocation process, Clarke said. The legislation was introduced on Clarkes behalf by Councilman Kenyatta Johnson, whose district has been a hotbed for questionable land deals. Im on board with it, Johnson said before the Council session. Johnson also introduced his own resolution Thursday calling for hearings into how public land is appraised, sold, and monitored. Too many mistakes are being made without consequence or consideration of the impact on the city, and there is no accountability," he said in a statement. "Its unacceptable, and I am committed to fixing it. However, it was Johnsons support that enabled developer Felton Hayman to purchase city land that he turned around and sold for a large windfall. Last month, the Inquirer and Daily News reported that Hayman, a childhood friend of Johnsons, was able to turn a $165,000 profit in September by flipping two Point Breeze lots he had purchased from the city a month before at a fraction of their market value. He was able to purchase the properties without competitive bidding because of Johnsons support, officials said. Last week, the newspapers reported that the Vacant Property Review Committee had approved selling three other Point Breeze lots to Hayman at below market value in a no-bid sale. That sale, too, was supported by Johnson. The committees records initially listed the deals as side yard sales, not for development. The records also failed to disclose that other developers had expressed interest in the properties, which should have triggered bidding. Hayman told the committee his homes would be priced at under $250,000. He ultimately built homes that sold for between $325,000 and $415,000. Other developers, including campaign contributors, backed by Johnson have in years past benefited from similar deals. Johnson has said he did not set the prices in the Hayman sales and was not aware that other developers were interested in the properties. He blamed the miscues on the citys landholding agencies: the Department of Public Property, the Redevelopment Authority, and the Land Bank. All the failures that followed from under-appraisal of the property to the brazen flip of the property just weeks after closing are the result of the broken process in the citys agencies, Johnson said in a statement Wednesday. If the city cant properly price properties and enforce deed restrictions, every transaction is a potential land mine. Last month, the FBI subpoenaed the city for records pertaining to the Hayman sales over the summer, sources said. Mayor Kenney and others have placed much of the blame for the questionable sales on councilmanic prerogative, the unwritten tradition under which Council members will not introduce or vote against resolutions involving land sales in another members district. That effectively gives each district Council member a veto over most development. Critics have charged that Council members use that power to steer city properties to favored developers. Clarke stood by the tradition Thursday, saying it is the most practicable way to handle the land disposition resolutions required under the City Charter. These Council districts are large 160,000 people. To be honest with you, I have enough difficulty trying to follow the nuances of property disposition in my district," he said. Kenney spokeswoman Deanna Gamble said in a statement that the administration had been working to implement some of Clarkes proposed changes without the need for legislation. This bill would, however, formalize the changes to ensure that they extend beyond the current administration," she said. The mayor will be directing the public property commissioner to implement them as soon as possible. We are also making improvements to disposition operations and expect to make an announcement in the next few weeks after we consult with City Council. On Wednesday, the Philadelphia Coalition for Affordable Communities, a 62-member group that includes community, labor, disability, faith, and urban agriculture organizations, called on City Controller Rebecca Rhynhart to review five years of land sales, particularly how councilmanic prerogative may have impacted them. Rhynhart said she would consider it. Staff writer Mark Fazlollah contributed to this article. Once considered eliminated, measles is again on the rise with more cases this year already than in all of 2018. Read more Each update in the nationwide surge of measles cases takes Dr. Paul Offit back to the battlefield that was Childrens Hospital of Philadelphia during a regional outbreak that began in 1990. By the time it ended the following year, more than 1,400 city and suburban residents had contracted the disease, and nine children were dead. Then an attending physician at the University City hospital supervising the care of young measles patients, Offit saw how bad it could get," he recalled. It was harrowing, like a war zone. Back then, the outbreak was centered on Faith Tabernacle Church in North Philadelphia as well as the offshoot First Century Gospel Church in the citys Juniata section. Both congregations believed that the Bible opposes all means of healing apart from "Gods way. Hundreds of children in the church school had not been immunized, and six of them died. Within those congregations alone, 486 people were infected. Nationwide, in the current scourge, 764 cases have been reported this year through May 3, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Pennsylvania has five of them, all in Allegheny County; New Jersey officials have confirmed 14. Some of the highest numbers have come from New York, Detroit, and Baltimore, in particular from several Ultra-Orthodox Jewish communities. Although the vast majority of Jews, including those who are Ultra-Orthodox, have their children vaccinated, there are some outliers who refrain out of fear and misinformation, said Rabbi Joshua Waxman, president of the Board of Rabbis of Greater Philadelphia. For the most part, the Philadelphia areas Orthodox communities support immunization, said Rabbi Albert Gabbai of Congregation Mikveh Israel in Society Hill. Judaism teaches that when one life is lost, its like a part of God is lost, he said. It is an obligation to do everything we can do to preserve life. If a vaccination has been scientifically proven to preserve life, then it is an obligation to preserve ones life. New York, with the highest tally of cases, has more insular enclaves of Jews than Philadelphia. Anti-vaccination activists often target such small communities, whose religious views or cultural isolation make them vulnerable to claims disproved by medical science and rebutted by faith leaders, said Offit, now the director of the Vaccine Education Center at CHOP and author of several books on the subject, including Bad Faith: When Religious Belief Undermines Modern Medicine. In most states, Pennsylvania and New Jersey among them, residents are allowed to opt out of immunization because of religious beliefs, said Rita Swan, a former Christian Scientist who advocates on behalf of childrens right to medical care. Nonetheless, she said, courts have repeatedly ruled that parents do not have a constitutional right to deprive their child of immunization and that states have the authority to compel it in the interest of public welfare. >> READ MORE: Pa.s legislature considers bill that would require doctors to treat unvaccinated kids Families from a variety of religious traditions decide not to immunize their children despite repeated assurances from faith leaders that God wont object. They disagree, or they may be confused about the theology, said Rene Najera of Hanover, Pa., an associate scientist at Johns Hopkins University who edits the History of Vaccines website for the College of Physicians in Philadelphia. Like some Ultra-Orthodox Jewish parents, they become targets of the anti-vaccination movement. Waxman cited a measles outbreak in 2017 in the Somali American community in Minnesota. In 2014, the Amish community in Ohio was hit by 383 cases of measles, mostly among unvaccinated families. The Amish have no religious objection to vaccination, but the communitys cultural understanding of what it means to be healthy contributes to some families decisions not to immunize, said Steven Nolt, professor of history and Anabaptist studies at Elizabethtown College in Lancaster County. The Amish view health as Can I do my job? Can I get up in the morning and work? Nolt said. With that perspective, preventive medicine may take a back seat. Amish people also value tradition, so if immunization wasnt a priority for parents or grandparents, that may trump the authority of modern medicine or the claims of science, he said. In a 1994 outbreak of measles among Christian Scientists in Missouri and Illinois, 190 people contracted the disease. None had been vaccinated. Most Christian Scientists normally rely on prayer for healing, according to a statement on the denominations website, but members are free to make their own choices about vaccinations. Christian Scientists report suspected communicable disease, obey quarantines, and strive to cooperate with measures considered necessary by public health officials. We see this as a matter of basic Golden Rule ethics and New Testament love, the statement reads. >> READ MORE: Mumps outbreak at Temple University rises to 140 cases For some, including Jews and Muslims who advocate maintaining the bodys purity, vaccinations that use gelatin derived from pigs may be problematic. Both traditions prohibit eating pork. But the vaccines made from porcine gelatin go through such an extensive transformation that the process may remove the impurities, said Katherine Klima of Cherry Hill, a nurse-midwife and Islamic ethicist. The majority opinion is that it would be better if the companies that make the vaccines would use something else, but since they dont, we need to use the vaccine because, clearly, its benefit is greater than any potential harm, said Klima, a former director of nursing at the National Guard Hospital in Medina, Saudi Arabia. In Catholicism, some believers objected to immunization starting in the 1960s, when researchers developed vaccines by using tissue from fetuses that didnt survive because of abnormality, illness, or elective abortion, said Najera, the Johns Hopkins scientist. In 2005, however, the Vatican released Moral Reflections on Vaccines Prepared From Cells Derived From Aborted Human Fetuses, stating that immunization protects children, serves the common good, and should not be rejected. The cells used now are many generations removed from fetal tissue, Najera said. Yet within every religion are groups that do not agree with its leaders pronouncements, he added. We are trying to inform the public that at the high levels of major religions, there is no objection to vaccines. Hopefully, we will change some minds. Opposition militants and journalists gather outside the Democratic Action political party headquarters, where a sign reads in Spanish "National Executive Committee. All united to vote and win," in Caracas, Venezuela, Wednesday, May 8, 2019, after National Assembly Vice President Edgar Zambrano was arrested when leaving the headquarters. Security forces arrested the No. 2 leader of Venezuelas opposition-controlled congress Wednesday as President Nicolas Maduros government began going after foes tied to a failed attempt to stir up a military uprising last week. Read more Masked Venezuelan intelligence police detained the vice president of the National Assembly late Wednesday in a dramatic operation in eastern Caracas, marking the first senior opposition official taken into custody by the socialist government in retaliation for a failed military uprising last week aimed at ousting President Nicolas Maduro. Assembly Vice President Edgar Zambrano live-tweeted the detention, saying his van was surrounded by forces from Venezuela's SEBIN police force. When he refused to exit, Zambrano said, his vehicle was forcibly towed to the infamous Helicoide prison, a notorious holding area for political prisoners. The move came after Zambrano became one of 10 opposition officials charged with treason, conspiracy and rebellion by the pro-Maduro Supreme Court in connection to the April 30 plot. Thus far, the leader of the uprising - opposition leader Juan Guaido, who has been recognized as Venezuela's rightful leader by the United States and more than 50 other nations - has not been charged. Zambrano's detention - which opposition leaders feared could be the first in a sweep - drew swift American condemnation. The Trump administration has strongly backed the Venezuelan opposition, and late Wednesday, the United States threatened unspecified "consequences" if Zambrano is not released. "The arbitrary detention of @AsambleaVE First VP Edgar Zambrano by Maduro's oppressive security forces in Venezuela is illegal and inexcusable," read a tweet issued late Wednesday by Kimberly Breier of the U.S. Embassy in Caracas, which pulled its diplomatic staff from the capital earlier this year following the severing of diplomatic ties with Maduro. "Maduro and his cronies are directly responsible for Zambrano's safety. If he is not immediately released, there will be consequences," the tweet continued. Though the administration appears to be conflicted over using force to drive Maduro out, it has not ruled out a military option. Some Latin American nations, including Argentina, Chile and Peru, also quickly denounced the detention and demanded Zambrano's release. Guaido confirmed the detention in a separate tweet. "We alert the people of Venezuela and the international community. The regime kidnapped the first vice-president of the National Assembly Edgar Zambrano," Guaido tweeted. "They are trying to disintegrate the power that represents all Venezuelans, but it won't succeed." Through stripped of its power in 2017, the opposition-controlled National Assembly is widely recognized internationally as the only democratic institution left in Venezuela, making Zambrano the second-highest opposition figure in rank after Guaido, who is the body's president. Zambrano's van was surrounded by heavily armed intelligence police in black vans near the headquarters of his Democratic Action party in eastern Caracas. Dozens of party members sang the party's anthem as Zambrano resisted and refused to get out of his van - leading the special forces to tow the car away with Zambrano in it. Zambrano tweeted: "We were surprised by the SEBIN. When we refused to leave our vehicle, they used a towing truck to bring us forcefully directly to the Helicoide." The move could signal a crackdown by a government that had thus far shown itself to be reluctant to arrest the senior opposition conspirators of last week's failed plot. At dawn on April 30, Guaido, along with a number of opposition leaders, including Zambrano, spirited to the La Carlota military air base in eastern Caracas, and declared the "final phase" of their plan to oust Maduro. They called on military and civil loyalists to turn against him. The bid, however, fell apart after top loyalists within the government, the military and the Supreme Court who the opposition says had secretly pledged to turn against Maduro either backed out or had been duplicitous all along. In the hours after of the plan's collapse, more than 20 military personnel who did rebel against Maduro sought asylum at the Brazilian Embassy, while Guaido's mentor - Leopoldo Lopez, who had escaped house arrest - fled to the Spanish Embassy, where he is currently staying as "a guest." In various statements, the United States has suggested that arresting Guaido would be a red line - and the socialist government has thus far dealt carefully with the opposition leader. But it has taken legal aim at other "plotters." Guaido's chief of staff, Roberto Marrero, 49, has been in prison since March 21, when his house was raided before dawn by armed intelligence forces. Interior Minister Nestor Reverol said Marrero was part of a "terror cell" and that weapons had been found in his apartment. Marrero's team said the weapons were planted and denied the terrorism charges. The Supreme Court this week charged 10 opposition officials, including Zambrano, with treason and other high crimes. The pro-government legislature known as the Constituent Assembly has also lifted the immunity from prosecution granted to lawmakers for seven of the 10 opposition officials, also including Zambrano. Some of those officials who have had their immunity lifted have sought sanctuary in other embassies in Caracas. But Zambrano had refused to do so and continued to participate in National Assembly sessions. During a session on Tuesday, he said, "We have to assume, with courage and democratic will, the calling of our people who are suffering the dramatic consequences of this political model." In the past week, the socialist government has also detained 82 street protesters, according to Foro Penal, a nonprofit legal group that defends and denounces political imprisonments. Three hundred people have been injured at protests, including at least 40 that have been struck by bullets, and four killed. There are currently more than 800 political prisoners in the country. Freshman Republican State Representative Stephanie Borowicz chats with visitors during an open house at her new Milesburg office on Thursday, March 7, 2019. Borowicz' opening prayer Monday, March 25, 2019 in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives drew complaints that it was inappropriately divisive. (Abby DreyCentre Daily Times via AP) Read more HARRISBURG At the end of its session this week, the state House of Representatives two top leaders stood together to deliver this message to colleagues: Behave. The gentle but rare public rebuke was prompted by a string of lawmakers igniting firestorms on social media in recent months. From a Philadelphia Democrat berating antiabortion protesters to a Central Pennsylvania Republican posing for a selfie with a man wearing the T-shirt of a group with ties to white supremacists, the issue of how lawmakers should behave on social media has been thrust front and center. There is no room for hate in any form in this chamber and even in our own lives, Majority Leader Bryan Cutler (R., Lancaster) said on the House floor Wednesday. The people of Pennsylvania expect better from us. Minority Leader Frank Dermody (D., Allegheny), who stood beside Cutler, offered similar advice. Gov. Tom Wolf echoed those sentiments Thursday: "In a time when too many are focused on advancing partisan politics, lets remind everyone that Pennsylvania is focused on delivering for the people who we serve. Though none of the leaders singled out lawmakers, they didnt have to. Lawmakers from both parties have provided a string of embarrassing posts, including several that have gone viral. Democratic State Rep. Brian Sims of Philadelphia made national headlines after he posted videos of himself on Twitter and other platforms berating antiabortion protesters outside a Planned Parenthood clinic in his Center City district. Within days, he found himself in a firestorm. Though Sims acknowledged that he was aggressive and pledged to do better, critics noted that he did not apologize. State Rep. Stephanie Borowicz (R., Clinton) took a resolutely defiant stance after a progressive activist snapped a photo then posted on Twitter of the freshman lawmaker taking a selfie with a man who wore a T-shirt with the name of a group believed to have ties to white supremacists. In a statement, Borowicz defended herself against what she called a typical, calculated move" out of the leftist playbook." The Anti-Defamation League called for her to apologize and condemn white supremacy. She did neither. Democratic State Rep. Danielle Friel Otten of Chester County is among the few public officials in Pennsylvania to have issued a public apology, after a Twitter post comparing Sunoco pipeline workers to Nazis landed her in trouble. Legislative officials acknowledge there are no guidelines on how to deal with such social media controversies. House Democrats and Republicans have separate and detailed policies on computer and social media usage. They share many aspects, including directives that lawmakers (and, often, aides who have access to their public profiles) not engage in harassment, intimidation, or other offensive behavior. The rules also explicitly prohibit campaigning on representatives official social media accounts. Violating the policy can result in sanctions. Those lines become blurred when legislators create non-official accounts, where they make their line of work clear and openly discuss public policy. That was the case with Sims, for instance, whose Twitter account is not an official legislative one, but whose bio includes his state representative title. (He posted one of his videos on Facebook; others resurrected them on Twitter.) In the Senate, policies tend to deal more generally with how legislators should conduct themselves, as well as how they and other employees should use taxpayer-funded computers. Mike Straub, a spokesperson for House Republicans, said the chamber provides guidance, but cannot control statements that lawmakers make. Ultimately," said Straub, "the voters of their districts judge their actions. David Surman Jr.. seen here after his arraignment in June, has been charged with possessing a weapon of mass destruction and related offenses in connection to a series of explosions last spring in Bucks County. Read more Bombing suspect David Surman Jr. left a Doylestown courtroom in handcuffs Wednesday after a Bucks County Court judge revoked his bail in a child-pornography case. Prosecutors had argued that Surman violated multiple conditions for his bail in two separate cases. But Judge Raymond F. McHugh ruled that he broke only one: possessing devices that allowed access to the internet in violation of a condition of the $500,000 bail he posted in the fall in the child-pornography case. Investigators also say Surman, 31, of Quakertown, was behind a series of mysterious late-night explosions in upper Bucks County last spring. The pornography was discovered while detectives searched electronic devices seized from his home, authorities said. During arguments in court Wednesday, Deputy District Attorney Antonetta Stancu pushed for Surman to remain behind bars until his trial in the bombings in August. I dont believe additional conditions are going to rectify this, Stancu said, adding that Surman used his knowledge of electronics to manipulate the system. And I believe theres no specific amount of bail that would force this defendant to follow these conditions, she added. Surmans attorney, Paul Lang, said Stancus efforts were an example of the government rushing to judgment. The judge dismissed 90 percent of their complaint, and found him guilty of violating his bail on a technicality," Lang said. But this doesnt change our path to prove David Surmans innocence. In a motion filed last week, Stancu wrote that PayPal had flagged suspicious activity on accounts registered to Surman, including the purchase of chemicals that could be used in potentially manufacturing an explosive device or other dangerous substances. Surman owns Consolidated Chemicals & Solvents, a mail-order company that sells chemical compounds online. Investigators found homemade explosives inside the companys headquarters as well as Surmans home while serving search warrants in the bombing case. After his arrest, Surman was barred from operating the company or possessing chemicals. PayPal also found that the accounts purchased components that when combined could form a fully functioning Glock handgun, as well as computer parts and SIM cards that would allow the buyer to access the internet. Under conditions of his bail, Surman was not permitted to possess those items. Surmans mother, Kathy, testified Wednesday that she was in control of the accounts in the course of running the company. But she waffled under pressure from Stancu, with McHugh admonishing her for saying inconsistent things" about who ultimately made the purchases. Kathy Surman also admitted to fibbing under oath, and to violating a court order not to discuss Stancus questions with her daughter Samantha, another witness in the case. Kathy Surman admitted to asking her daughter about certain items that Stancu had questioned her about during court proceedings on Tuesday. Samantha Surman testified that she was the one who purchased the gun components, telling Stancu she did so for personal use. Orlando Maisonet is released after spending 28 years on death row. He is greeted by Gloria Figueroa, the victim's sister, who said, "I believe everyone deserves a second chance at life." Read more Gloria Figueroa, whose brother Jorge was murdered in a North Philadelphia basement in 1982, stepped sobbing in the front of a Philadelphia courtroom on Thursday morning. Then, she urged Judge J. Scott OKeefe to release one of the men convicted of killing him and swiftly end what she sees as a decades-long injustice compounding the tragedy of her brothers death. That man, Orlando Maisonet, 60, spent 28 years on death row for the murder, but always contended that two heavily armed drug dealers, Simon and Heriberto Pirela, killed Figueroa and forced Maisonet to help dispose of the body. I believe he had nothing to do with it, your honor," Figueroa said. "In my heart, I feel that. And I believe everyone deserves a second chance at life. OKeefe agreed, and imposed the sentence negotiated by Maisonets lawyer, Daniel Silverman, and Assistant District Attorney Paul George: 14 to 28 years in prison plus two years probation for the charges of third-degree murder, conspiracy, and possession of an instrument of crime, making Maisonet eligible to be released immediately. Hell serve the probation in Puerto Rico, helping his 84-year-old mother rebuild her home from damage sustained in Hurricane Maria, according to Silverman. I think [she] is waiting to make me a mamas boy again, said Maisonet, a stout man with a bald head, glasses, and a salt-and-pepper goatee. All I can say is, Yes, maam. George referred questions to a spokesperson for District Attorney Larry Krasner. The spokesperson, Benjamin Waxman, declined comment except to say, Our office felt that todays outcome was a just resolution of this case. Maisonets release brings to a close a nearly three-decade-long quest to shed light on what he argued and the judge agreed was ineffective defense, along with clear misconduct by the Philadelphia District Attorneys Office and Roger King, the prosecutor who handled the case. Maisonet was initially convicted of two murders involving the Pirelas, who are both serving life sentences in state prison. (Simon Pirela had been sentenced to death, but that sentence was vacated in 2004 pursuant to a Supreme Court ruling that individuals with intellectual disabilities may not be executed.) But his first conviction for killing pizza shop owner Ignacio Slafman was later overturned and Maisonet was acquitted at a retrial in 2005. The second conviction, for the murder of Figueroa, who had been a witness to Slafmans death, was vacated 14 years later, in February. In that case, Maisonet and his lawyers claimed that King had falsified evidence, withheld information from the defense, and failed to notify the court of possible perjured testimony. The District Attorneys Office supported vacating the conviction, though it did not concede misconduct. Instead, the district attorney agreed that Maisonet had received inadequate legal representation, and that it had been prejudicial when King showed the jury a clip from Americas Most Wanted that included a dramatization of the crime. King died in 2016. Maisonet agreed to a plea rather than take this case to trial. Since he has spent the last 28 years in a 7-by-10 box, facing imminent execution, he made the difficult decision" to take a deal," Silverman said. To him, Maisonets journey reflects a fundamental problem with the justice system: It was way too easy for the state to unfairly convict Mr. Maisonet 28 years ago, and far too difficult for Mr. Maisonet to finally receive the justice he was always due. A screenshot of an ad funded by Philly for Growth, a new political action committee backing four Democratic Council candidates this year. Read more A new political action committee is getting into the Philadelphia City Council race in the final days, airing TV commercials for four candidates it views as pro-business. Philly for Growth, established at the end of April, is chaired by Leo Addimando, a real estate developer and vice president of the citys Building Industries Association. The group is supporting Democratic Council at-large candidates Eryn Santamoor and Katherine Gilmore Richardson, and incumbents Derek S. Green and Allan Domb. A TV ad featuring a talking baby will first air Sunday and run through the election on broadcast and cable outlets, said Aren Platt, a political consultant working with the group. The exposure could make a difference in a field of 28 Democrats vying for five seats on May 21. Platt wouldnt disclose the ad buy, but its scope is likely at least $200,000, big enough to potentially shake up the race, according to several campaign consultants. In the ad, a baby holding an oversize teddy bear is dubbed with the voice of a high-pitched woman. Check this jawn out," the baby says, before the camera zooms in on a primary ballot. Youve got to vote for the team that will grow Philly with us. Santamoor, Domb, Richardson, Green," the baby says in a singsong lilt, "Santamoor, Domb, Richardson, Green. The names of donors were disclosed Friday in a campaign finance report showing $190,000 in the PACs account, which includes $50,000 from OCF Realty, based in Point Breeze, $30,000 from the General Building Contractors Association, and $10,000 from the Steamfitters union. The PACs treasurer is Gary A. Jonas Jr. of the HOW Group, a development firm based in Conshohocken that does business in Philadelphia and which gave $10,000. The president of OCF Realty, developer Ori Feibush, ran for Council four years ago against 2nd District incumbent Kenyatta Johnson, with whom he has clashed over development issues in rapidly growing Southwest Philadelphia. The PAC says it does not have an affiliated nonprofit, so all contributions over $250 will continue to be reported per campaign finance rules. Another PAC, Philadelphia 3.0, has received criticism for legally coordinating with a nonprofit in order to conceal the source of some of its money. Addimando said he and other contributors thought the four candidates were best suited to equitably grow opportunities in every part of the city. City Council has taken a distinctly business-unfriendly tone over the past, lets say, generation, Addimando said. Its gotten consistently more expensive to do business in the city of Philadelphia. Its become more bureaucratic, and we believe whats good for business is genuinely good for the city. What underlies the poverty of the city, which is our greatest problem, is a lack of ... quality jobs that can sustain families. How business-friendly are the candidates? Domb, known as the condo king, owns a ton of real estate in Philadelphia. None of the others have such a direct tie, but they have pro-development stands on some issues. All four told The Inquirer they oppose a tax on new construction and want to reform the 10-year property tax abatement instead of abolishing it or keeping it the same. But all four also said they support the so-called soda tax. In a race where gentrification and Councils relationships with developers and development have become issues, two of the most influential PACs have pro-development interests (Philadelphia 3.0 was founded partly by parking garage magnates Joseph and Robert Zuritsky). Philadelphia 3.0 has focused largely on the 3rd District race between incumbent Jannie Blackwell and challenger Jamie Gauthier. Addimando pointed out that money from all sorts of sources flows into politics labor, education, the beverage industry. Its unfair to single out 3.0 or real estate development as being particularly influential, he said. Its a free country and we have the ability as citizens to make contributions. Domb has already spent close to $1 million on television and radio. Santamoor, Justin DiBerardinis, and Councilwoman Helen Gym have also bought ads that have or will soon air. Independent expenditures have dominated spending this primary season, putting more into the mayors race than all three candidates combined. Staff writers Chris Brennan and Jonathan Lai contributed to this article. Pope Francis attends a penitential liturgy at the Vatican on Feb. 23, 2019, the conclusion of a four-day summit he convened with leaders of the global church to address the clergy sex abuse crisis. Reforms issued by the Vatican on Thursday resulted from that meeting. Read more Pope Francis on Thursday issued a sweeping set of new Catholic Church laws aimed at better policing how the hierarchy investigates claims of clergy sex abuse and cover-up, marking his most concrete effort to date to respond to a crisis that has threatened to overwhelm his papacy. Here are some of the highlights. 1) Mandatory reporting The new policies, outlined in what is known within the church as a motu propio, require for the first time that all of the worlds 415,000 Catholic priests and 660,000 religious sisters inform church authorities of all reports of abuse. But the directive stops short of requiring them to go to police or other civil authorities a nod to the Vaticans long-held concern that doing so could endanger clerics in parts of the world where Catholics are a persecuted minority. Bishops in the United States adopted a similar but tougher policy in the early 2000s, amid the first wave of the clergy sex abuse crisis here. The U.S. version requires dioceses to report suspected abuse to police. >>> READ MORE: With sweeping new reforms, Vatican adopts most concrete steps to date to address sex abuse, cover-up 2) Making it easier for victims to come forward The church also will require every diocese to create a public, easily accessible, confidential system to field complaints of sexual abuse and cover-up. Most dioceses in the United States already have established protocols that meet this minimum requirement, but there have been calls for further reform. For instance, after complaints that seminarians and priests feared repercussions if they came forward to accuse their superiors, bishops here launched a confidential third-party hotline last fall for reporting abuse. The rules issued Thursday by the Vatican establish whistle-blower protections, saying that those reporting misconduct from within the church may not suffer prejudice, retaliation, or discrimination. It also requires that victims be notified of the outcome of any investigation. 3) Addressing cover-ups Thursdays reforms recognize the cover-up of abuse complaints as a crime as serious as the abuse itself. In addition to requiring clerics to report suspected abuse, the directive also mandates that priests and religious sisters inform church authorities of actions or omissions intended to interfere with or avoid civil investigations or canonical investigations. 4) Investigating bishops With its new protocols, the Vatican has overhauled its process for investigating bishops accused of failing to respond to abuse complaints or, worse, of committing sexual misconduct themselves. Before this, complaints were handled by Vatican investigators, who often were criticized as sluggish and opaque. Now, the Church has empowered so-called metropolitan archbishops a title given to prelates tasked with both leading an archdiocese and supervising bishops in nearby dioceses to investigate. Under the new protocol, the metropolitan would receive a complaint and seek Vatican permission to open an investigation. Rome has 30 days to respond and, if authorized, the metropolitan archbishop has 90 days to complete his probe and develop preliminary recommendations. All results of investigations would be forwarded to the Vatican for final action. But the regulations stop there, and already have prompted criticism from some who say the Vaticans bureaucratic procedures also need a significant overhaul. Still, in a nod to past complaints, the new policies require Vatican offices to share more information than had been required in the past. 5) A role for lay Catholics The Vatican guidelines cemented for the first time a role for civilian experts and church faithful in the investigation process. Most U.S. dioceses, including Philadelphia, already rely on civilian review boards to investigate abuse claims and make recommendations to bishops. But the nations prelates sought to expand that role in the face of immense pressure from victims and their advocates who remain suspicious of the hierarchys ability to police itself. Last fall, American bishops proposed a civilian-led panel that would investigate complaints against bishops but were blocked by the Holy See from voting on the proposal. The regulations released Thursday dont grant lay church members as much authority but allow metropolitan archbishops to rely on lay experts and advisers while conducting investigations. Tom Hall holds a rainbow flag during a rally to support hate crime legislation at Love Park on September 25, 2014 in Philadelphia. Reported hate crimes have risen in recent years, the majority of them motivated by racism. Read more Hate crimes have become a seemingly constant addition to daily news reports around the country and in Philadelphia. The number of hate crimes continues to rise even as we have been talking more about racism and bigotry. In recent years, the national conversation on race has been driven forward by the resurgence of the phrase stay woke. The refrain became popular especially in 2014 in response to the shooting of 18-year-old Michael Brown in Ferguson, Mo., and woke was added to the Merriam-Webster dictionary in 2017. Merriam-Webster defines woke a term traced back to a 1962 article by black writer William Melvin Kelley as being aware of and actively attentive to important facts and issues (especially issues of racial and social justice). Examining the ways mainstream media and culture took over the phrase, journalism Sam Sanders wrote: The terms resurgence in this decade can be most closely linked to the rise of the Black Lives Matter movement. BLM activists have been striving, for years now, to convince people of all races to value and respect blackness, to take issues like the deaths of black people at the hands of police seriously. Woke became shorthand for a mind-set and a worldview that values black lives. Yet while language around social justice has entered the mainstream, that awareness has not translated to greater safety for marginalized people. Hate crimes have spiked nationwide since the election of President Donald Trump, and theyve risen in Philadelphia. The Philadelphia Commission on Human Relations received 85 reports of hate crimes and bias incidents in 2018, with 68 confirmed, an increase from past years. The majority were motivated by race. In contrast, the Philadelphia Tribune reported in March, the Philadelphia Police Department logged only 43 reports of hate crimes in 2018. This disparity suggests that police have not been appropriately counting hate crimes in the city. At the state level, the American Civil Liberties Union reported last July that some Pennsylvania officers were bringing hate crime charges themselves against people in their custody who lashed out with disrespectful, sometimes hateful, speech. Some of these charges of ethnic intimidation resulted in felonies. >>READ MORE: Millions are victims of hate crimes, though many never report them These findings at the city and state level illustrate how much discretion the police have in deciding which instances of hate they want to document and pursue. Its disturbing to see that in Philly, hate crimes may be undercounted, and across the state, officers have used these charges to punish people who were already in police custody. Though the stay woke rallying cry has brought light to racism around the country, words are not enough to create change in our city. These problems demand action. To reduce and eventually stop hate crimes in Philadelphia, we need to thoroughly count and investigate incidents of hate, start supporting the victims, pressure our leaders, stay engaged, and involved in our citys politics, and most importantly, act publicly and speak out when we spot injustice. None of us can continue to sit idly by while members of our community face prejudice. It is not enough to only notice the unfairness around us, and it is crucial we use all platforms to speak on it. Philadelphia is our home and may be home to our children, our grandchildren. It is our job as members of Philadelphias communities to build a world for future generations that sees less, not more, hate. My mother never hit me. No matter how much I might have deserved it, never. Not once. That was Dads job, but he will stand down today, because this is for Mothers Day, originated by Philadelphian Anna Jarvis. Mom is no longer alive, but she is right here at my side. As my friends lose their mothers, I tell them that theirs, too, are close by. Mothers Day is for them, too. Never hitting me was the least important thing I can tell you about Jeanette Bykofsky, who left us in 2007 at age 89. Dad died eight years later at 98. She was born in Harlem, at home, two months before the United States entered World War I. Mom met Dad in the Bronx, shortly after Dads family had moved from Coney Island. His parents later returned to Brooklyn to open a bakery on Mermaid Avenue. Dad met Mom through Sonny, her younger brother and my favorite uncle, a tough-talking, hard-drinking, cigar-smoking, thrice-married, burly World War II veteran who worked for the Teamsters Union. Dad bounced around a bit before finding his true calling with his beloved Amalgamated Clothing and Textile Workers Union. He began as an organizer, became a business agent, and eventually managed a local. Mom and Dad never dated anyone else, and each was dedicated to social change and justice, through the Socialist Party U.S.A. Its longtime leader Norman Thomas, who ran for president six times, was a family friend. Early in their marriage, Mom and Dad struck a deal: He would save the world, shed raise the kids. She had more luck than he. Except it wasnt luck. It was love and intelligence and intuition. When I was about 6, and furious about something, I blurted out, I wish you were dead! Without anger, she sat down beside me and asked, Do you really wish I was dead? When the enormity of the catastrophe I had wished for struck me, I burst into tears. No such thought ever crossed my mind again. Mom worked all through her life, mostly out of necessity. Mom could type like the wind, take dictation, file, organize no office skill was beyond her. The job that satisfied her most was serving as the entire office staff for the Socialist Party. The office was a large rectangular loft with rack fluorescent lights and wooden slat floors. She and the executive director sat nearest to the huge windows overlooking Manhattans busy 23rd Street, with files stretching back along the walls. Mom was not paid much because socialists dont have much. It was a labor of love. Her other labor of love was the family meaning my sister, Andrea, and me, until grandchildren came along. Mom was as even-tempered as an angel. In rare moments of exasperation, she might mutter, Oh, fudge! I cant recall her ever complaining or passing judgment, unlike her son. When I got my first newspaper job as a critic, she said, Its nice youre now being paid for something youve always done for free. Rim shot. But she was the peacemaker in the family, often putting herself between her husband and her son. She always wore glasses, her hair tightly curled. She thought that she was not good-looking and that she could not cook. She was wrong on both counts. On Sunday, go see your mom if shes living. Have a chat with her if shes not. Im doing that right now. Westside Saloon owner/bartender Billy Scott shows a finished "kiss" for the "buck chuck" at the saloon in West Wildwood, NJ. Read more WEST WILDWOOD, N.J. Dollars dangle from the wood ceiling like bats. Every summer, shoobies stumble upon the backwoods dive bar, wander in for a drink and confront the rafters. They will gawk at its scope for a moment or two, contorting their faces as they measure the challenge, weighing the potential of proving themselves against the risk of embarrassment. But after a few drinks, inevitably, they go for it. A plastic cup on the wood-topped bar holds loose change, another holds thumbtacks. The shoobies provide the bills. Setup: Poke the tack through the back of George Washington's head, and stack the quarter (or nickel or dime) on top of the thumb end. Wrap the bill around the coin, and twist it into a shuttlecock. Approach: Throw it toward the ceiling, with one arm, underhanded. Object: Make it stick. Goal: Don't look foolish. Result: Shoobies dodging falling darts. Locals laughing at them. That is, if the shoobies can find the bar in the first place. "Not many people know where we are," said Billy Scott, who owns the place with his brother, "which is the best part." The one-story, trailer-sized structure stands two blocks from the bay, the best-kept secret on a little-known island. Laughing with tourists is always a good time, but shoobies aren't the Scotts' intended customers. They cater to the locals, mostly blue-collar retirees and their families who either live in the town year-round or who visit every summer. The initiated call it "The Wedge," a nickname broken off the official designation, Westside Saloon. It's not just another dive bar, those dark, seedy, sandy institutions that litter the South Jersey Shore points like playpens for adults. The Wedge is a seasonal reunion hall. It always looks the same, and it's always there. The same faces, the same names, year after year. It's one shotgun of a room, enveloped in wood, a dart board in the corner for those who like to throw sharp objects sideways instead of up. It's known for its "Orange Crush," a mashup of freshly squeezed orange juice and assorted spirits. The bar reflects its town. One bridge, in or out. And just as storms ravaged the island and flooded its streets, extenuating circumstances have ravaged the bar. Last summer, for the first time in its 90-year lifespan, The Wedge had to shut down to remedy fire code violations. It was closed for a year, but after renovating the kitchen, the Scott brothers were allowed to reopen this summer. I was there last year, the last night before it closed. The bar was empty, save for a group of wiry outsiders. I punctured the $1 bill, wrapped it tight, and launched. Just another shoobie trying and failing to prove they belong. About this Series: Shore is about everyday people and their meaningful times spent down the Shore. Find each installment and be sure to leave a comment at Philly.com/Shore. From left, Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., Sen. Chris Murphy, D-Conn., Rep. Ro Khanna, D-Calif., and House Rules Committee Chair James McGovern, D-Mass., speak to reporters after the House voted to end American involvement in the Yemen war, rebuffing the Trump administration's support for the Saudi-led military campaign, on Capitol Hill in Washington, Thursday, April 4, 2019, though President Trump is expected to veto it. It's the first time Congress has invoked the decades-old War Powers Resolution to try and stop a foreign conflict. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite) Read more LA GRANGE, Ill. A move by House Democratic leaders to protect incumbents is reigniting anger and suspicion among the partys progressives ahead of the 2020 election. Under a new policy, the powerful Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee will refuse to hire pollsters, ad makers or other campaign consultants if they also work with a candidate trying to defeat a sitting Democrat in a primary. The rule is designed to prevent divisive primaries. But many progressives and some moderates see it as another move by the Democratic establishment to bully and marginalize the partys growing liberal wing. To some, it is reminiscent of the accusations that the Democratic National Committee favored Hillary Clinton over Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., in 2016, a rift that left the party weakened in 2016. And instead of downplaying primary battles, the rule is already shining national attention on some key races, particularly a Chicago-area standoff between two Democrats. This is a party that should stand for competition, exchange of ideas and allowing for fair elections. This undercuts that, said Rep. Ro Khanna, D-Calif. He said the policy relies on the kind of monopolistic powers that Democrats often criticize big businesses for using. Progressives immediately lashed out when word of the policy spread in March, but theyre not the only ones concerned. I just dont think its appropriate, said Rep. Zoe Lofgren, D-Calif., a well-respected veteran lawmaker. Critics warn the policy is not only tone deaf in light of the 2016 tensions between progressive and establishment Democrats, it threatens to alienate some of the partys youngest and most energetic supporters. More than 70 college Democrat chapters are boycotting the DCCC over the policy. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York, the high-profile House freshman who won her seat after defeating an incumbent who was also a House Democratic leader, encouraged her supporters to pause donations to the DCCC and instead donate directly to candidates. Democratic Rep. Ayanna Pressley of Massachusetts, who also defeated a party incumbent, said the policy would threaten to silence new voices and historically marginalized communities. DCCC officials and senior House Democrats, including Speaker Nancy Pelosi of California, have defended the policy, arguing that the groups business is to protect the House majority and incumbent Democratic lawmakers, no matter where they fall on the political spectrum. So far, the new policy is playing out most dramatically in a southwest Chicago congressional district that has come to embody the national battle over the partys identity. It is there, in a district that includes a slice of the city and its southwest suburbs, that a progressive Democrat with the backing of several progressive political groups is trying for the second time to oust one of the Houses most conservative Democrats in the 2020 election. Marie Newman, who came within 2 percentage points of unseating Rep. Dan Lipinski in the Democratic primary last year, said the rule has undercut her campaign. She cant find any pollster who is willing to work with her, and at least four consultants have started and later halted the interview process. For most Democratic political operatives, the idea of not being able to get business from the DCCC is too significant a risk, she said. Were a democracy and we shouldnt be putting any thumbs on any scales, Newman said. The DCCC is protecting (Lipinski) to the point where its a little bit silly. Progressives are particularly appalled that the DCCC would protect Lipinskis seat when they argue it could be held by a Democrat whose values are more in line with the national partys. Lipinski, who has held the seat since 2005, voted against the Affordable Care Act in 2010, opposes abortion rights, and is the only House Democrat who hasnt co-sponsored the Equality Act, which would extend civil rights protections for LGBTQ persons. If we dont allow for a challenge to a Democrat who opposes the ACA, opposes Roe vs. Wade and opposes the DREAM Act, then what do we stand for as a party? Khanna said. Lipinski had opposed the DREAM Act, or protections for immigrants brought to the U.S. illegally as children. But in 2017, he said he would support later versions of the bill, and he is a co-sponsor of the Democrats latest version of the DREAM Act, which is expected to get a vote this year. Newman who garnered endorsements in 2018 from Sanders, Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand and even two of Lipinskis fellow Chicago-area House Democrats argues that shes the real Democrat in the race. Lipinski says hes the one who is more in line with the district, which has a strong union population and is heavily Catholic and increasingly Latino. He argues the district is made up of what had been known as Reagan Democrats not the progressives who are garnering much of the attention in Congress today. He expressed worry that the party risks going too far to the left and cited Pelosis support for being a center-left party. Pelosi wants to focus on getting things done in the House and having the best ability for us to defeat President Trump in 2020, he said in defense of the DCCC policy. She understands. The DCCC understands. We need to do what we can to try to keep the party unified. The progressive backlash against the policy has helped Newman give the race a national profile. Newman said shes seen a 40% lift in fundraising in recent weeks as word of the policy spread among progressive activists. After Democracy for America endorsed her late last month, she raised more than $68,000 over a 10-day period; the average donation was about $20 and about 85% of it came from outside the state. The nation cares about this very ill-fitted congressman who is calling himself a Democrat when he is really a Republican or independent, Newman said. On Monday she received the endorsement of several liberal organizations, including the abortion rights groups EMILYs List and Planned Parenthood and the political groups MoveOn and Progressive Chance Campaign Committee. Both sides of the dispute say the DCCC has always had an unwritten rule that it didnt work with political operatives who tried to oust incumbents. Supporters of the policy say the rule is merely more transparent now. Progressive lawmakers and groups have met with DCCC Chairwoman Rep. Cheri Bustos of Illinois. Several progressive Democrats, including Congressional Progressive Caucus Co-Chairwoman Pramila Jayapal of Washington, say they think Bustos is open to changing or reversing the policy. I think we could come up with something that reflects our values and not hurt us either with individual candidates but also with our base, Jayapal said. Additional meetings are expected. But a spokesman for the DCCC said the policy is not going to change. 2019 Los Angeles Times Visit the Los Angeles Times at www.latimes.com Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. PHOTO (for help with images, contact 312-222-4194): WASHINGTON Stephanie Bice is a Republican from a deeply conservative state thats only sent three women to Congress. But the election of a record-breaking number of female freshmen to the House in 2018, all but one of them Democrats, helped her decide to run for the chamber herself. It was a signal to all women that politics isnt just a mans world, said the Oklahoma state senator, who recently announced her candidacy for the 5th District. It shows that women have as much of an ability to win these seats. We just need to field the candidates. Bice and dozens of other female Republicans have either announced their candidacies or are moving toward running more than the number of GOP women who were similarly engaged at this point in 2017. (Its) exponentially more than last cycle, said New York Rep. Elise Stefanik, who was the first female head of recruitment at the House GOP campaign arm and helped recruit more than 100 women during the 2018 cycle. But most of them lost last year, and just 13 Republican women now serve in the House, compared to 89 Democrats. The biggest difference (this year) is candidates are getting in earlier, said Rebecca Schuller, the executive director of Winning for Women, which helps elect female Republicans. Whats exciting to Republicans who care about increasing diversity in Congress is that many of the women running this year are self-recruiting. The reasons why vary from district to district, but what happened in 2018 is a big part of it. The House flipped Republicans are seeing more new faces because many of the old faces lost their seats in 2018. Bice, for example, never would have run for Oklahomas 5th District before. It was already represented by a Republican. But Democrat Kendra Horns upset win last November now gives Bice an opening. Of the net 40 seats Democrats gained in 2018, 31 of them backed President Donald Trump in 2016. That makes those districts ripe targets for Republicans. About 25 Republican women are either already running for seats up in 2020 or have been mentioned as serious candidates, according to numbers compiled by the Center for American Women and Politics. Thats up from about 14 at a similar point in 2017. The National Republican Campaign Committee said it has engaged with about 135 women so far this year. Not only have some of these women been inspired by seeing female Democrats run and win; theyre fired up that these new Democratic incumbents whether its high-profile ones like New York Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez or the women representing their own districts dont reflect their political views. Two women have already announced campaigns against freshman Democrat Katie Hill in Californias 25th District, a race Inside Elections with Nathan L. Gonzales rates Likely Democratic. My kids are growing up, and Im thinking about their future, Lancaster City Council Member Angela Underwood-Jacobs told CQ Roll Call last month. It comes down to two things: the birth of my daughter and last year losing my mother to pancreatic cancer, said nonprofit CEO Suzette Martinez Valladares, who criticized Hill for voting for Nancy Pelosi to be speaker. Bice said she doesnt accept that her district, which includes Oklahoma City and surrounding communities, is one of those suburban areas that are becoming more liberal. This is still a very conservative area, she said of the district, which Trump carried by 14 points against Hillary Clinton. Inside Elections rates the race a Toss-up. Running for office didnt come naturally to Bice. She only ran for state office in 2014 at the prodding of a retiring state senator and family friend. Now, as a fourth-generation Oklahoman and pro-business conservative, she calls herself a perfect fit for the 5th District. Virginias Tina Ramirez worked in and around Congress for much of her career, advising members on religion and human rights issues and helping found a nonprofit and the bipartisan Congressional International Religious Freedom Caucus. She didnt see an opportunity to run for a seat herself until last November, when Democrat Abigail Spanberger unseated GOP Rep. Dave Brat in the 7th District. I knew my background and experience was unique, she said, noting that national groups didnt reach out to her until after shed launched her campaign. Normally at this point of the cycle, GOP womens groups are eyeing districts where they might have a chance to recruit a female candidate such as where a Republican man is retiring. I havent started recruiting yet, said Julie Conway, the executive director of VIEW PAC, which supports GOP women. Everybody that Im currently talking to somehow was sent to me. What Conway is seeing from the Republican women who are raising their hands to run reinforces the conventional wisdom that men run to be someone and women run to solve problems. Theyre not doing this because they ran for class president in kindergarten and this has been their trajectory, Conway said. At the same time, its not as if they just woke up one morning and decided to run for Congress. Women dont really do that, Conway said. They need to see evidence it works. The last few cycles, 2018 in particular, helped lay the groundwork for them. The president was a drag on down-ballot Republicans in 2018. Incumbents such as Barbara Comstock of Virginia, Mimi Walters of California and Mia Love of Utah all lost in places where Trump was unpopular. So its counterintuitive that running in 2020 on the same ticket as a man whos bragged about grabbing womens genitals might actually be good for Republican women. But Conway thinks it might be easier for women to distance themselves from Trump in 2020 since Republicans who dont like the president can take their vote out on him directly instead of on congressional candidates. The political implications of standing with Trump also depends on the district: In places where he is more popular, having his base turn out could also boost female GOP candidates. While 2018 might have been a good year for women overall, it was bad for Republican women in the House, where their numbers dropped from 23 to 13. But calling attention to that may have encouraged more GOP women to run. The fact that we rang the bell in a very public way and had colleagues be accountable to ringing that bell was a really important step, said Stefanik, who stepped away from her NRCC role to play in primaries for women. The attention around the dearth of GOP women has also helped candidates get more media exposure this year. But getting more women to run is only a first step. Primaries, especially in competitive seats, loom large, and have traditionally been where women candidacies ended. Thats why Stefanik, Schuller and Conway are so excited that a woman made the runoff last week in the special primary election for an open, and strongly Republican, seat in North Carolinas 3rd District. Pediatrician Joan Perry ran with backing from Winning for Women, Susan B. Anthony List and VIEW PAC. (EDITORS: STORY CAN END HERE) The existence of these groups and the fact that Winning for Womens super PAC is now making six-figure independent expenditures may also encourage more female Republicans to run because they see someone might have their back. Theres another big reason Republican women are excited about Perry making it into the runoff in North Carolina: Electing a woman in a safe GOP seat is the best chance for the party to actually grow its numbers. Conways biggest fear is that 2018 ushered in a cyclical pattern of women in competitive seats beating women from the other party. I would much rather take out random Democratic guys, Conway said. Because women work better with each other. (Bridget Bowman contributed to this report.) 2019 CQ-Roll Call, Inc., All Rights Reserved Visit CQ Roll Call at www.rollcall.com Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. PHOTO (for help with images, contact 312-222-4194):CONGRESS-GOP-WOMEN Artist's rendering of Port Richmond Village shopping center after revamp into what's being called Fishtown Crossing. Read more Where does Philadelphias Fishtown neighborhood end? Seemingly somewhere north of the Port Richmond Village shopping center on Aramingo Avenue, according to the strip malls owner, Cedar Realty Trust. The Port Washington, N.Y.-based real estate trust plans to rechristen the strip mall as Fishtown Crossing in a revamping of the center, which also will include the construction of a new row of shops, said chief operating officer Robin McBride Zeigler. The branding and merchandising is created to directly attract the burgeoning surrounding Fishtown and Northern Liberties neighborhoods, Zeigler said during a conference call with analysts earlier this month. Port Richmond Villages main entryway opens onto York Street, which some consider the border between the neighborhoods of Fishtown and Port Richmond. The center is claimed by both the Fishtown Neighbors Association and the Olde Richmond Civic Association as within their bounds. A map maintained by the Philadelphia Inquirer defines the center as being within a narrow section of Kensington that pokes between Fishtown and Port Richmond to reach the Delaware River. A message left for Zeigler with a Cedar spokesperson asking about the name change was not immediately returned. Jacob Cooper, a managing director with brokerage MSC Retail in Philadelphia, said the decision to adopt a Fishtown moniker for the center was probably meant to cash in on the nationwide buzz around the revitalized neighborhood, where such restaurants as Wm. Mulherins Sons and Stephen Starrs Frankford Hall and Fette Sau draw big crowds. There are restaurants and retailers from out of town that could be Washington, New York, Chicago. The first thing they ask me is, What is this place called Fishtown that everyone is talking about?' said Cooper, who is not directly involved with leasing at the shopping center. Port Richmond Villages main tenants are currently an IGA Inc.-affiliated supermarket and a Pep Boys store. The centers T-Mobile USA Inc. and GameStop branches recently moved to new locations within the property to make way for the planned new retail structure, the construction of which is scheduled to begin late this year, Zeigler told analysts. Among the new buildings tenants will be a branch of Nifty Fiftys, a chain of retro-styled restaurants, Zeigler said. Nifty Fiftys has stores in Northeast Philadelphia, Ridley Township, and Turnersville, N.J. Leo McGlynn, an owner of the chain, said during a March appearance on the Fox & Friends morning cable show that a new location also is planned at 10th Street and Oregon Avenue in South Philadelphia and that franchisees are being sought to expand the business. Nifty Fifty is a Philadelphia staple serving shakes and burgers and bringing a local flair to what will become the newly branded Fishtown Crossing, Zeigler said. Cedar has previously disclosed larger redevelopment plans for two of its other Philadelphia properties: Riverview Plaza shopping center on South Columbus Boulevard, south of Washington Avenue; and the South Philadelphia Shopping Center and Quartermaster Plaza flanking Oregon Avenue along 23rd Street, which Cedar is combining into a single complex that it is calling South Quarter Crossing. Both are to include housing as well as reformatted retail space. Zeigler said during the call with analysts that work at Riverview Plaza is expected to begin next year. Under the gaze of former Mayor Frank Rizzo (in mural form) Charlie Cannuli gives his all trying to reach the basket of prizes, including cash and gift certificates, at the top of the grease pole. Read more SUNDAY Freshly reopened, Blue Cross RiverRink Summerfest and Spruce Street Harbor Park will be in full swing all weekend, along with newcomer Cherry Street Pier and old standby Penns Landing. Spruce Streets Sunday lineup includes a hula-hoop festival and jazz in the park with Phillys Laurin Talese. Summerfest kicks off with carnival rides and roller-skating. Various times and locations along the Delaware River waterfront, 215-922-2386, delawareriverwaterfront.com MONDAY Profs and Pints: Colonial Phillys Organized Chaos Take a deeper look at Phillys colonial history, mobs and all, over beers with Temple history professor Jessica Chopin Roney. 6 to 9 p.m., Cambria Hotel Philadelphia Downtown Center City, 219 S. Broad St., $12, profsandpints.com TUESDAY Legally Blonde: The Musical How to go from California cheerleader to Ivy League law student and be the woman you want to be. 8 p.m., with additional performances through July 14, Walnut Street Theatre, 825 Walnut St., $57 to $67, 215-547-3550, walnutstreettheatre.org WEDNESDAY Eddie Izzard Its been five years since Eddie Izzard hit the road, but with his Wunderbar tour, the longtime comic is back at it. Fans can expect intelligent bunkum of the highest order, along with Izzards trademark surrealist takes on everyday life. 8 p.m., Merriam Theater, 250 S. Broad St., sold out, 215-893-1999, kimmelcenter.org THURSDAY Star Party at the Rail Park The astronomy team at the Franklin Institute leads a stargazing party at the Rail Park. Bring your own blanket and friends including the furry ones and enjoy music, beverages from Caphe Roasters, and giveaways from REI. 7:30 to 10 p.m., the Rail Park, 1300 Noble St., free, therailpark.org FRIDAY AND SATURDAY Big Apple Circus New Yorks vintage-feeling, good-doing, one-ring circus makes its Montco debut. Look for horizontal juggling, quadruple somersaults off the trapeze, friendly clowns, and dogs and horses that prove rescue animals are every bit as talented as purebreds. 11 a.m., 3 and 7 p.m. Saturday, with additional performances through June 16, Greater Philadelphia Expo Center, 100 Station Ave., Oaks, $20, 484-754-EXPO, bigapplecircus.com Ninth Street Italian Market Festival Chow down on cannoli, fresh pasta, homemade meatballs, and more at this annual two-day fest, which fills the Italian Markets already-crowded sidewalks with even more vendors. Dont miss the grease pole contest, the half ball tournament, and other festival traditions. 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday and Sunday, Italian Market, South Ninth Street between Wharton and Fitzwater Streets, free, 215-278-2903, italianmarketfestival.com On behalf of Pine Bluffs High School's Future Business Leaders of America, I would like to invite you to become a sponsor contributing to the attendance of an FBLA member at the 2019 National FBLA Leadership Conference held in San Antonio, TX, June 27-July 3, 2019. Eleven FBLA members from Pine Bluffs High School earned the opportunity to compete at the national level because they received top honors in their respective events at the state level. These hard working individuals will represent Wyoming, at this conference this summer. FBLA members are dedicated to learning more about business and business-related fields. In addition to competition, our local chapter operates to complete community service projects, business, and American Enterprise projects and much more to become more aware of business and industry in our community. Our list of competitors and their respective competitions include: Hunter Jeffres/ Management Decision Making; Seth Tangeman, Tucker Norman, Brian Steger/ Entrepreneurship Team; Donte Jacobsen, Kenzie Sloan/ Client Services; Sydnie Fornstom/ Organizational Leadership; Scott Fornstrom/ Introduction to Business; Savannah Eggli/ Word Processing; Alexis DePaulitte/ Introduction to FBLA; Andrea Reifschneider/Introduction to Business Communication. This year as a sign of our appreciation, all businesses who donate $150 or more, will receive a recognition plaque. To sweeten the deal, for every $50 donated the business will receive a chance for a pair of Rockies tickets. Your sponsorship is a tax deduction for you or your business. Pine Bluffs High FBLA is a non-profit organization. The out-of-pocket expenses required by each student traveling to the National Leadership Conference in San Antonio this year is $900. Any amount you are willing to contribute is appreciated. Since the birth of this great country Americas men and women have sacrificed life and limb for her freedom. No matter when or where millions have answered the call and defended the freedoms that we enjoy on a daily basis. The month of May is set aside to honor those brave men and women who believed in something bigger than themselves. Men and women who understood that freedom is never free, and that sometimes the greatest liberties come from the greatest sacrifice. On October 13, 1775, the Continental Navy was established. Fighting for the establishment of American these brave men fought... 400 [Failed to load instagram embed]https://instagr.am/p/BxFE2evp_rh&maxwidth=1000&hidecaption=1 So fun at the first SA enduro. Thought I would spice things up and race the Honzo... didnt know it would be so fast but there was a lot of sprinting and it came out on top. Connor Fearon Photos: Andy Rogers Results Men 1st. Connor Fearon - 17:22.2 2nd. Troy Brosnan - 17:26.8 3rd. Steven Gebert - 18:04.9 Women 1st. Shelly Flood - 20:40.0 2nd. Amy Schwarz - 21:07.8 3rd. Emily Hill - 21:51.3 Connor Fearon has backed up his third place in the Tasmania EWS with a win in Round 1 of the Gravity Enduro South Australia at Fox Creek... except this time he did it on a hardtail.This may have only been a regional race but Connor still had some tough competition from Troy Brosnan and last year's series winner, Steven Gebert. Brosnan and Fearon swapped stage wins all day with Fearon taking four of them and ending up 4 seconds clear. Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Jul 26, 2021 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( ) Canada's capital city makes for an excellent weekend getaway, and is home to countless things to do. Given the city's size its population is under a million, many times smaller than Toronto it's relatively easy to secure great accommodations close to all the action. In fact, many of the best hotel deals in Ottawa can be found in the downtown area. Here, you can find everything from some of the best luxury hotels in Canada to excellent affordable hotels and motels most with pools that offer quality stays in comfortable rooms and suites. If you're looking for a great downtown location within easy walking distance of the top attractions in Ottawa, by far the best area to search for availability would be Byward Market hotels. In fact, many of our top choices include hotels in or very close to this area. Popular for its pedestrian-friendly streets and excellent dining and shopping options, Byward Market is also where you'll find an endless list of fun things to do for young and old alike. A stay here also means you're within easy striking distance of the Rideau Canal, a special treat in winter, when this body of water freezes over and becomes the world's longest skating rink. Whatever season you choose to visit, be sure to read through our comprehensive list of the best hotels in Ottawa, Ontario. Note: Some businesses may be temporarily closed due to recent global health and safety issues. 1.8k SHARES Facebook Twitter Whatsapp Pinterest Reddit Print Mail Flipboard Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi issued a statement putting the blame on Senate Republicans and Mitch McConnell after Trump lied about Democrats blocking disaster relief funds. Pelosi calls out Trumps lie Pelosi responded to Trumps lie in a statement provided to PoliticusUSA: This week, House Democrats are once again advancing a robust, $17.2 billion disaster relief package, which adds an additional $3 billion for communities, businesses and farms hit by the historic flooding in Iowa, Nebraska, Missouri and across the Midwest as well as for Southern states devastated by recent tornadoes. This critical funding builds on the emergency disaster relief that House Democrats passed in January for hard-hit communities across the country, despite House Republicans overwhelmingly opposing this urgently-needed funding. Sadly, Senate Republicans have been more committed to hurting our fellow Americans in Puerto Rico than healing communities everywhere. Meanwhile, the President has doubled down on Republicans callousness, deliberately delaying assistance payments to Puerto Rico and inflicting more needless suffering on the Americans who are still reeling from his Administrations disastrous response to the hurricanes. And so, hard-hit communities from the Florida panhandle to the Midwest are stuck waiting for the GOP-controlled Senate to pass a bill to help them. We are now just weeks away from another hurricane season and Republicans continue to delay and play politics. When disaster strikes, all Americans deserve to know that their government is there for them. Democrats are taking strong and desperately-needed action to help every American family hit by disaster heal and rebuild now, and during the long road to recovery. Trump is using disaster relief as a racial dog whistle Trumps Florida rally was full of attacks against Puerto Rico that carried racist overtones and messaging. The Senate Republicans are taking their lead from Trump. The presidents strategy is to try and divide the country on the basis of white versus everyone else. He used his rally in Florida to make his white supporters feel like he was delivering for them while Democrats were trying to give their money to the brown people in Puerto Rico. The rhetoric is ugly, nasty, and these lies harken back to the same language that Republicans used to appeal to white voters during the Obama presidency. Trump lied, and Nancy Pelosi made sure that America knows that the blame belongs squarely on the shoulders of Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell. For more discussion about this story join our Rachel Maddow and MSNBC group. Follow Jason Easley on Facebook 6.3k SHARES Facebook Twitter Whatsapp Pinterest Reddit Print Mail Flipboard Trump claimed to have been joking at his Florida rally when he said that he wants to stay in office for 10 or 14 years. After attacking the media, Trump said, They are a bunch of fakers theres no question about it. But in six years, theyre all going to be out of business folks. Now if we want to drive them crazy, Ill say in ten years. Theyll go crazy. See. He is a despot. He is a despot. Well, ten or fourteen. Watch, theyll be headlines tomorrow. Donald Trump wants to break the constitution. Video: No president has ever joked so much about wanting to violate the constitution and stay in office like Donald Trump. The president is terrified of losing reelection because he is likely to face a criminal indictment as soon as he leaves office. Of course, Trump would love to remain president for ten or fourteen years. The statute of limitations would expire on all of his crimes and he would be good to go. Trump may say he is joking, but presidents dont normally joke about violating the constitution, and this president, who admires dictators especially would love to hold on to power. Trump can claim he is joking, but there is a strong scent of truth in the idea that Trump is scared to leave office because his next stop might be federal prison. For more discussion about this story join our Rachel Maddow and MSNBC group. Follow Jason Easley on Facebook 2.6k SHARES Facebook Twitter Whatsapp Pinterest Reddit Print Mail Flipboard Trumps Florida rally featured an attack on the people of Puerto Rico who the president claimed were grateful to him for the aid. Trump told his supporters in Florida, But youre getting your money one way or another, and were not going to let anybody hold it up, and I think the people of Puerto Rico are very grateful to Donald Trump for what weve done for them. Earlier in the rally, Trump repeatedly complained that the people of Puerto Rico dont like him, and the leaders on the island have criticized him. Video: Trump spent much of his rally framing his attack on Puerto Rico with a sharply divisive and bigoted undertone. Trump kept telling his followers that Democrats wanted not to give money to Florida, but provide more funds to Puerto Rico. The message was clear. Democrats want to give money to brown people at the expense of white people. Trump hasnt given Puerto Rico $91 billion $91 billion is the estimated cost of potential liabilities over the next 20 years. Puerto Rico has received $11 billion, with $40.8 billion allocated. It is a lie that Puerto Rico has been given more disaster relief than any other state or territory. Trump is currently blocking relief funds for the island, one suspects, because the people are not white, and Trump doesnt feel like they have shown him enough love. Puerto Ricans are suffering because Trump has neglected the islands recovery. Donald Trumps racism caused one of the worst humanitarian crisis in US history toward Puerto Ricans. Trump is using Puerto Rico aid as a wedge to divide white and brown Americans. Puerto Rico should be a shame not gratitude for Donald Trump. For more discussion about this story join our Rachel Maddow and MSNBC group. Follow Jason Easley on Facebook 960 SHARES Facebook Twitter Whatsapp Pinterest Reddit Print Mail Flipboard Attorney General Barr is refusing to turn over any Mueller documents and evidence to House Democrats unless they impeach Trump. Barr Wont Turn Over Mueller Evidence Unless Trump Is Impeached Nicolle Wallace reported on her MSNBC show Deadline: White House, Im told by a justice department source, the only way the Democrats get their hands on anything resembling underlying evidence or a more fulsome version of the Mueller report is part of impeachment proceedings. The standoff that the Justice Department and the white house may be prepared for is the more combative version. Video: Trump wants impeachment so that he can run on it in 2020 During the Mueller investigation, Trump and his allies created the bogus perjury trap excuse to give Trump an out for not testifying to Mueller. Trump and Barr have gone on to create a real impeachment trap for Democrats. The obstruction, refusal to turn over documents, and allow witnesses to testify is all intended to both stall for time, and push House Democrats toward impeachment. Trump wants impeachment because there is no chance that he will be convicted in the Senate and removed from office. It doesnt matter what the evidence reveals, Senate Republicans are not going to vote to convict Trump and remove him from office. There is no alternate universe timeline where Senate Republicans behave this way. The White House wants impeachment, which is why Speaker Pelosi is intelligently not giving it to them. Trump is trying to bait Democrats into impeaching him, so that impeachment, not his failures as a human being and as president are on the ballot next year. Democrats should keep digging and fight out these disputes in court, and make sure that under no circumstances does Donald Trump get to run on impeachment in 2020. For more discussion about this story join our Rachel Maddow and MSNBC group. Follow Jason Easley on Facebook 3.6k SHARES Facebook Twitter Whatsapp Pinterest Reddit Print Mail Flipboard Well, contrary to Republican Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnells pronouncement, the Case is Not Closed: The Trump Family is Now Attacking GOP Chairman Burr. Senator Richard Burrs former colleague, Democratic Senator Claire McCaskill, said Thursday morning on Morning Joe that an attack by someone close to Donald Trump, Jr would not sit well with Burr. Burr is the Chairman of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, and Wednesday he subpoenaed Don Jr. to testify about answers he gave congressional investigators as part of their Russia probe. This is the first time a congressional panel has subpoenaed a member of President Trumps family, and its not sitting well. Naturally, a person close to the Trump family is smearing Burr as subservient to the Democrat Resistance. This has been their tactic throughout the Mueller investigation, which was led by Republicans, not Democrats. Additionally, Bob Mueller himself is a Republican. A person close to Donald Trump Jr. sent a statement out to multiple reporters trying to shame Richard Burr by saying Democrat Mark Warner is his boss, when in reality Warner is a Democrat and thus in the minority in the Senate, and Burr is the actual chairman of the committee. This close person further suggest that this is a PR stunt by someone too cowardly to stand up to the resistance Democrats, but this wild claim is only after they claim that Donald Trump Jr. was cleared by the Mueller report. Burr is hardly part of the resistance. This is the guy who provided the White House back door info about the Russia investigation after a private briefing with Comey. The Wall Street Journal reported this someone close to Don Jr saying: When he originally agreed to testify in front of the Senate Intel Committee in 2017, there was an agreement between Don and the Committee that he would only have to come in and testify a single time as long as he was willing to stay for as long as theyd like, which Don did, a person close to Mr. Trump Jr. said. Don continues to cooperate by producing documents and is willing to answer written questions, but no lawyer would ever agree to allow their client to participate in what is an obvious PR stunt from a so-called Republican Senator too cowardly to stand up to his boss [Sen.] Mark Warner and the rest of the resistance Democrats on the committee, this person said. Person close to @DonaldJTrumpJr on the Senate Intel subooena pic.twitter.com/DayTeYwnKq Maggie Haberman (@maggieNYT) May 8, 2019 Burr is hardly subservient to the Democrats- this is the same Senator who reportedly provided back door information to Trump on the Trump Russia investigation, after Burr was briefed privately by then FBI Director James Comey: Within a week of Comey briefing the Gang of Eight congressional leaders about the FBIs Russia probe in March 2017, Mueller wrote that then-White House Counsel Donald McGahns office was in contact with the North Carolina Republican and appears to have received information about the status of the FBI investigation. And then there is the old Trump tactic of using fake names to create media buzz, from John Miller to John Barron. And now, perhaps just someone close since the fake names got outed. When Donald began using John Baron alias, the joke inside the family was that on the day became the subject of a subpoena, poor Baron would fall ill and die, Trump biographer wrote in Fortune in 2016. He used Baron, and later, Miller, to avoid trouble, float ideas, and even spread gossip about himself. In all these cases he sought to protect and polish the Trump image, or brag in ways that would be unseemly, even for a man who is synonymous with self promotion. Trump Jr has already spoken with Senate investigators about Trump business efforts to build a Moscow Trump Tower during the 2016 election and of course, the June Trump Tower 2016 meeting with a Russian agent of the Kremlin, who was acting on behalf of the Russian government, and who promised dirt on Hillary Clinton. But during his previous testimony, Donald Trump, Jr claimed he knew very little about Trump Tower Moscow, but former Trump lawyer Michael Cohen said that he briefed Don Jr. and Ivanka on it ten times. The Trump campaign did not report to authorities any of the 251 contacts they had with Russians during the 2016 election and even the redacted Mueller report established extensive contacts with Russians by the Trump campaign. Laurence Tribe said the Russia evidence reveals that Donald Trump Jr. committed a crime when he solicited help from the Kremlin, because the law forbids accepting offers or soliciting offers of foreign help. Burr is not going to run again, so its possible that he is free now to actually do the right thing by his country, unlike the rest of his Republican comrades, but its also possible this is a stunt, as the Trump family is claiming, but a stunt to investigate the investigators, which is the only investigation into the ongoing attack on our country that Republicans are willing to contemplate. The Trump family is now attacking a Republican Senator as being a coward for seemingly considering upholding his oath to protect this country. Its also noted that they consider being a Democrat a slur. The Trump family is desperate to avoid the truth of their full behavior with the Russians coming out. 2k SHARES Facebook Twitter Whatsapp Pinterest Reddit Print Mail Flipboard Joe Biden has opened up an 18 point lead in New Hampshire over Bernie Sanders in a state that Sanders must win to have a chance at the Democratic nomination. Joe Biden Leads Bernie Sanders by 18 In New Hampshire The new Monmouth University Poll of New Hampshire found: In a field of 24 announced and potential candidates, Biden holds a clear lead with 36% support of registered Democrats and unaffiliated voters who are likely to participate in the February 2020 primary. He is followed by Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders at 18%. Other contenders include South Bend Mayor Pete Buttigieg (9%), Massachusetts Sen. Elizabeth Warren (8%), and California Sen. Kamala Harris (6%). Registering at least 1% in the poll are former Texas Rep. Beto ORourke (2%), Minnesota Sen. Amy Klobuchar (2%), New Jersey Sen. Cory Booker (2%), former Colorado Gov. John Hickenlooper (1%), Ohio Rep. Tim Ryan (1%), and entrepreneur Andrew Yang (1%). The remaining 13 candidates earn less than 1% or were not chosen by any respondents in the poll. Biden does especially well among voters aged 65 and older, garnering 53% support with this group compared to only 9% for Sanders. The former vice president also bests Sanders by 36% to 19% among those aged 50 to 64, but he trails the Vermont senator by 20% to 27% among voters under the age of 50. Biden tops Sanders by 45% to 10% among self-described moderates and conservatives, but he lags by 23% to 29% among liberals. A majority of likely Democratic primary voters (58%) describe themselves as moderates or conservatives in New Hampshire, a state that allows unaffiliated voters to participate in either partys primary. Joe Biden Leads With Voters Who Are Focused on Beating Trump Interestingly, it is not Bidens Obama connection that is powering his support. The Monmouth University Poll also found, Biden garners somewhat more support among voters who prioritize beating Trump (39%) than he does among those who are looking for issue alignment in their nominee (32%). Sanders, on the other hand, does much better with issue voters (33%) than electability voters (13%). Harris does slightly better with electability voters (8%) than issue voters (4%). There are no significant differences in support for other candidates between these two types of voters. Bernie Sanders has some real problems The Sanders campaign wants to run against the establishment, but their biggest problem is that many Democrats care more about beating Donald Trump than fighting among themselves over policy nuances. Sen. Sanders is mostly running the same campaign as he ran in 2016 without adjusting for the political climate change that caused by Trumps election. Many Democratic voters instinctively understand that the way to beat a far-right candidate like Trump isnt to go to the far left but to occupy the left and center that Trump has abandoned. Support for Bernie Sanders has been slipping in polling since before Biden got in the race. The drop for Sanders has not all been caused by Biden. Part of the problem is that Sanders is struggling to appeal to voters who place winning in November ahead of everything else. Sanders is sliding, and if he doesnt rebound and win New Hampshire, he will have no chance of being the Democratic nominee. For more discussion about this story join our Rachel Maddow and MSNBC group. Follow Jason Easley on Facebook 1k SHARES Facebook Twitter Whatsapp Pinterest Reddit Print Mail Flipboard One day after the House voted to hold handpicked Attorney General William Barr in contempt of Congress for refusing to share the unredacted Mueller report with Congress as Mueller instructed him to do and as Congress must see in order to determine what to do with the evidence, as Mueller instructed, Speaker Pelosi blasted Trump with the truth that he is failing to even pretend to protect our elections. House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) on Thursday blasted the Trump administration for not even pretending to want to protect our elections. Its appalling that this administration would not even pretend to want to protect our elections, Pelosi told reporters. Pelosi also said that President Trump thinks intervention by Russia in the 2016 election is a laughing matter. Video: Pelosi added that she agrees with House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jerrold Nadler that the country was in a constitutional crisis, and repeated her reference to Trump almost self-impeaching by refusing to abide by the Constitution and laws. I said the same thing on i24News EN with David Schuster, arguing that Trump is failing to defend this country after an attack and failing to protect our elections. This is not only reason enough to impeach him, but it is mandatory because of the national security risk he poses as president. Progressives and Democrats have been eager for Pelosi to being the impeachment process in the House, and at times critical of Pelosi for what they see as stalling. It appears as if Pelosi is making the case for the public to impeach Trump, but Pelosi knows better than most that with Republicans in the Senate, Trump will not be kicked out of office. He will, however, use the impeachment process to further portray himself as a victim in 2020. The answer of what to do regarding the national security threat that is Donald Trump isnt as clear as it should be, because unlike under Richard Nixon, Republicans are spitting on other Republicans who bring forth facts that this president invited Russia to attack our country. Of course Donald Trump should be impeached. And of course the rule of law necessitates that he be impeached. But if Democrats in the House impeach Trump and Republicans let him off, Donald Trump will be an even bigger authoritarian fascist than he is today. That is the danger of not looking down the road to see where the best exits lead. The goal is to get Donald Trump and all Republican traitors out of the White House. It seems to me the best solution would be to get them out and then prosecute for various crimes and actions against this country. That isnt what feels best or is right. But it is what seems most likely to work. The voters need to hold Republicans and Trump accountable for failing to defend this nation. 1.8k SHARES Facebook Twitter Whatsapp Pinterest Reddit Print Mail Flipboard Senate Republicans on the Intelligence Committee blindsided Trump and his White House by not giving the advance notice on Donald Trump Jr. being subpoenaed. White House Chief of Staff Mick Mulvaney complained to CBSs Major Garrett, I have no difficulty with bipartisanship, but to subpoena the presidents son without getting a heads up is bad form. Mulvaney said that he didnt know if Trump had been told and that it was possible but unlikely that if news of this sort reached the White House, he wouldnt know about it. Video of Mulvaney: The White House had no prepared reaction. Trump didnt tweet about his sons subpoena or mention it at his Florida rally, so the signs are strong that the White House had no idea that the subpoena was coming. Donald Trump Jr. perjured himself before Congress by lying about his knowledge of the Trump Tower Moscow project. Trump Jr. claimed that he didnt know anything about it, but former Trump lawyer Michael Cohen said that he briefed Don Jr. and Ivanka on it ten times. If Trump knew about the Senate Intelligence Committees plan to subpoena his son, he would have squashed it. The president would have gotten Mitch McConnell involved to kill the subpoena. The fact that Trumps White House chief of staff had no advance notice suggests that the Republicans on the Senate Intelligence Committee wanted to keep the subpoena a secret. Innocent presidents dont have subpoenas dropped on them by committees run by their own party. Trump wasnt told, because if he knew, he would try to obstruct the investigation, which is live and real-time proof of Donald Trumps consistent and ongoing pattern of obstruction of Congress and justice. For more discussion about this story join our Rachel Maddow and MSNBC group. Follow Jason Easley on Facebook 16.1k SHARES Facebook Twitter Whatsapp Pinterest Reddit Print Mail Flipboard Trump couldnt hold the attention of his own supporters in Florida, as many of them began leaving him halfway through his rally. Trumps own supporters walked out while he was still talking The New York Times reported: The president cycled through a familiar list of rally topics, like a border wall with Mexico and the support of Democrats for late-term abortions. But it was a discursive performance, even by Mr. Trumps standards, and the mood was notably less electric than at some of his other rallies. The crowd began straggling out during the latter half of the speech, to the sound of helicopter engines being warmed up in a nearby field. Mr. Trump twice complained about the stage where he stood under a giant banner that read Make America Great Again saying that the floor was so slippery that he wondered if it had been set up by the Democrats. Even his own supporters are bored with Trump Enthusiasm matters in elections. Many voters need to be motivated to cast their ballots. Donald Trump is using fear as his primary motivation, but he beats the fear drum so incessantly that it appears his supporters are beginning to tune him out. Trump is not a popular president. He has an iron grip on the Republican Party, but moments like what happened in Florida lead to questions about how passionate the support is for Trump. Republicans were outworked and out energized by Democrats in 2018. Democratic voters would flock to the polls in waves if they could cast their 2020 ballot for president today. The level of intensity on the Democratic side has not been this strong since the Obama/Clinton primary. While Trumps supporters are walking out on him while he is still speaking, Democrats are ready to ready to roll and counting down the seconds until November 3, 2020. For more discussion about this story join our Rachel Maddow and MSNBC group. Follow Jason Easley on Facebook 8.1k SHARES Facebook Twitter Whatsapp Pinterest Reddit Print Mail Flipboard Trump laughed at a suggestion by one of his supporters that the way to stop immigrants at the border was to shoot them. Trump laughs and jokes as his supporters call for immigrants to be shot Trump said, This is an invasion. When you see these caravans starting out with 20,000 people, thats an invasion. I was badly criticized for using the word invasion. Its an invasion. Folks, its crazy. And then they say and the wall would help. Not help, the wall would stop it, okay, the wall would stop it. When you have 15,000 people marching up and you have hundreds and hundreds of people and you have two or three bored border security people that are brave and great. We cant let them use weapons. We cant. I would never do that. But how do you stop these people? You cant. One of his supporters shouted out, shoot them. Trump laughed and joked, Theres no thats only in the panhandle you can get away with that statement. Only in the panhandle. So its a tough situation. Video: Trump did nothing to discourage violence against immigrants Trumps supporters and enablers will say that the president himself didnt call for the shooting of immigrants at the border, but Trump fed his supporters an endless supply of hateful rhetoric about non-white people at the rally. He scares his supporters with fears that migrants are coming for them, and when one of the suggests shooting immigrants, he laughs and does nothing to discourage the suggestion. It is a pattern that existed since Trump started running for president. Trump doesnt overtly tell his supporters to be violent, but he encourages that conclusion by whipping them into such a state of fear that they think that they have no other choice. Trump is trying to hold on to power through fear, and the path to Democratic victory in 2020 is not to allow Donald Trump to scare America into the status quo. For more discussion about this story join our Rachel Maddow and MSNBC group. Follow Jason Easley on Facebook Belarus state oil company Belneftekhim informed European oil companies on April 19 that crude oil coming from Russia had been heavily contaminated with organic chlorine. The Belarusian side said it would seek compensation from Russia for the damage caused to the pipelines and refineries by the polluted oil. The Russian state oil company Transneft initially downplayed the issue, saying the incident was minor and the situation would be normalized within a week. Polygraph.info video by Nik Yarst On April 30, an analysis by Reuters news agency showed the scope of the problem was much greater than Transneft, which operates the pipelines, had portrayed it: by the time Belarus completely shut down its pipelines and stopped Russian oil shipments, European clients had already purchased $2.7 billion worth of contaminated crude. That same day, Putin summoned the head of Transneft, Nikolay Tokarev, to the Kremlin, demanding an explanation. Tokarev said an internal investigation by Transneft had concluded that the contamination might have been the result of fraud perpetrated by a private firm in Russias Samara region -- a theory that Putin, at least publicly, seemed to accept without questioning its veracity. To date, no plausible evidence of such fraud has been produced. Moreover, foreign experts have questioned the credibility of Transnefts version of events. Slovak energy expert Karel Hirman told the Czech media Denik N: This explanation by the state oil company Transneft, which controls all Russias pipelines, is simply shocking. Apparently, the company does not have control over this vitally and strategically important infrastructure that is bringing Russia a majority of its revenue. Hirman said it remains a mystery to him why President Putin, according to his own words, entrusted the investigation to Transneft instead of ordering the special services to intervene. Giving the scope and level of pollution, it is obvious that the process (of contamination) was long and widespread. But small Russian companies extract, in the best cases, only a few hundred thousand tons per year, and precisely because of the low quality of their oil, they dont get access to the export pipelines, Hirman said. Reports indicate that about 36.7 million barrels of oil was heavily contaminated. Transneft said Russias Federal Security Service (FSB) has launched an investigation on April 27, calling the contamination an act of sabotage. Russias Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev ordered a criminal and technological probe of the incident. We find the original claim is unclear, since apparently official investigations are ordered and the results not yet available. Russia said it had sent clean oil to the pipelines in Ukraine and Belarus on May 6, but Belarus said dealing with the damaging consequences of the chlorine contamination might take months. This was about two and a half weeks after the problem was originally reported on April 19th, about twice as long as Transneft said it would take for the oil deliveries to be normalized. On May 5, Russia announced it is cutting oil production by 1 million barrels per day for five days due to the decreasing demand for Russian crude in Europe. However, the issue of oil pollution is not new to Russia and has been reoccurring over the years. On May 6, while speaking at the North Atlantic Mediterranean Council, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan claimed his country was the only NATO member to fight the Islamic State group (IS, also known by its Arabic acronym, Daesh) on the ground in Syria. While Turkey has engaged in ground operations in Syria against IS and plays an important role in maintaining one of the last opposition enclaves in Idlib, Erodgans comments were misleading. Combined Joint Task Force - Operation Inherent Resolve is the Combined Joint Task Force established by the U.S. Department of Defense to counter IS in Iraq and Syria. It includes the U.S. and a number of other NATO (including Turkey) and non-NATO member states. U.S. Special Forces and Marines have been engaged on the ground in combat against IS. Two U.S. soldiers were killed in Syria this past January during a patrol near Manbij. Local forces supported by the U.S. and Turkey, among other countries, have done most of the ground fighting in Syria. The U.S. has backed the Syrian Democratic Forces, led by the Kurdish Democratic Union Party (PYD), an organization Turkey adamantly opposes as an offshoot of the Kurdish Workers Party (PKK), which Turkey and other countries consider a terrorist organization. The SDF retook the former IS capital city of Raqqa in eastern Syria, and recently eliminated the last vestiges of the groups Caliphate in Syrias Deir-ez-Zor region. Turkey, while it has been involved in Syria more directly and with larger forces than the U.S. and its allies, has similarly used its special forces and air force to support mostly local rebels in their campaigns against IS. Turkish action against IS on the ground began with Operation Euphrates Shield, which cleared IS from border areas such as the town of Jarablus. Turkish forces also sustained significant casualties in battles with IS for control of Al-Bab. Turkey has deployed as many as 8,000 troops to Syria, according t to news reports at the peak of Operation Euphrates Shield. The U.S. has deployed up to approximately 4,450 Special Forces and Marines on the ground. British and possibly French special forces operatives have also been deployed in small numbers. While Turkeys contribution to the war against IS cannot be ignored, Erdogans government has also faced criticism for its involvement in Syria. One common allegation has been that Turkeys forces have been more involved in operations against the PYD and SDF in and around the canton of Afrin rather than against IS. Some observers have even accused Turkey of turning a blind eye to IS, which has in the past sought to eliminate the Kurdish enclaves in northern Syria. Polygraph.info sought clarification from the Turkish presidents office on the statement, but did not receive a response. Get the SC business stories that matter. Our newsletter catches you up with all the business stories that are shaping Charleston and South Carolina every Monday and Thursday at noon. Get ahead with us - it's free. Jerrel Floyd is an Alabama raised reporter who covers Summerville and Dorchester County for The Post and Courier. Thomas Novelly is a political reporter based in Charleston. He also covers the military community and veterans throughout South Carolina. Previously, he wrote for the Courier Journal in Kentucky. He is a fan of Southern rock, bourbon and horse racing. David Slade is a senior Post and Courier reporter. His work has been honored nationally by Society of Professional Journalists, American Society of Newspaper Editors, Scripps foundation and others. Reach him at 843-937-5552 or dslade@postandcourier.com A 17-year-old student from Wando High School in Mount Pleasant was identified as the teen who died Tuesday after his canoe capsized. Logan Janik was identified by the Charleston County Coroner's Office on Thursday. Wando High School principal Sherry Eppelsheimer said the Charleston County School District Crisis Team is working with counselors to help students and staff cope with his death. "Our school community was hit with tragedy Tuesday night, as we lost Logan Janik, a junior at Wando High School," Eppelsheimer said in a statement. "While we are mourning his passing, we are truly heartbroken for his family and friends." The manner of death is still pending, according to the coroner's office. The incident happened between 5:30 p.m. and 6 p.m. at a private pond off of Angelica Road in Awendaw, DNR spokesman David Lucas said. Janik and another 17-year-old were paddling in a canoe in the pond when it capsized. The two decided to swim to shore, Lucas said. Janik went under the water and his friend couldn't locate him. Eventually, a nearby 18-year-old and the 17-year-old pulled Janik to shore. Two nearby Charleston County deputies found Janik and performed CPR on him. Emergency services responded and took the boy to Mount Pleasant Hospital, where he was pronounced dead at 6:42 p.m. A 17-year-old died after canoeing incident in Charleston County A 17-year-old boy drowned in Awendaw on Tuesday evening, according to the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources. "Logan was a young man of high character; he made a positive, lasting impact on those he met," Eppelsheimer said. "His teachers said he was a pleasure to teach and loved by all." Teachers from South Carolina attended an annual dinner on Wednesday to celebrate some the state's best educators. The event came exactly a week after roughly 10,000 people marched on the Statehouse calling for education reforms. Angie Jackson covers crime and breaking news for The Post and Courier. She previously covered the same beat for the Grand Rapids Press and MLive.com in Michigan. When shes not reporting, Angie enjoys teaching yoga and exploring the outdoors. Syndicated and guest columns represent the personal views of the writers, not necessarily those of the editorial staff. The editorial department operates entirely independently of the news department and is not involved in newsroom operations. FILE- In this July 5, 2018, file photo, a jockey truck passes a stack of 40-foot China Shipping containers at the Port of Savannah in Savannah, Ga. For months, the U.S. economy has shrugged off the tariffs slapped by America and China on tens of billions of dollars of each others goods. (AP Photo/Stephen B. Morton, File) Assistant Columbia bureau chief Adcox returned to The Post and Courier in October 2017 after 12 years covering the Statehouse for The Associated Press. She previously covered education for The P&C. She has also worked for The AP in Albany, N.Y., and for The Herald in Rock Hill. DES MOINES, Iowa Iowa Sen. Charles Grassley says Congress wont consider a new trade deal with Mexico and Canada until President Donald Trump lifts tariffs that have prompted other countries to take actions that have hurt U.S. farmers. Speaking with reporters on May 1, Grassley said Trump must end steel and aluminum tariffs before Congress will ratify a United States-Mexico-Canada trade agreement. Farmers in Iowa and across the country have been hurt by reciprocal tariffs placed on agricultural products, including pork and soybeans. Grassley says tariffs also could hinder efforts at a trade deal with China. Grassley says tariffs are "keeping the president from being on the cusp of a big win" with Canada and Mexico and just weeks away from a victory in trade negotiations with China. President Donald Trump made NAFTA, the trade agreement that allowed goods to flow freely between the United States, Mexico and Canada, a key issue during his 2016 campaign. After he was elected, Trump promised to pull the U.S. out of NAFTA and issued steel and aluminum tariffs against China, Mexico and several other countries. ADVERTISEMENT Those countries have responded with tariffs of their own, which has hurt ag exports across the board. Canada is one of the U.S.s top soybean buyers it ranks fourth in soybean meal and seventh in overall soybean oil exports while Mexico accounts for more than 30 percent of the United States cheese exports. Trump, along with then-Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto and Canadian President Justin Trudeau, signed the USMCA in November 2018. Each countrys legislative body, including Congress, must ratify the agreement before it can take effect. The Trump administration has yet to present the agreement before Congress. While the pact improves environmental and labor regulations among the countries, Democrats say more must be done to increase labor rights and hold prices down on goods such as pharmaceuticals. Ag representatives are urging Congress and Trump to collaborate and pass the USMCA as soon as possible, in part to ensure other countries also agree and in part to get the U.S. ag economy back on track after years of declining commodity prices. OSAGE, Iowa Democratic presidential candidate Bernie Sanders on Sunday proposed a sweeping agriculture and rural investment plan to break up big agriculture monopolies and shift farm subsidies toward small family farmers. "I think a farmer that produces the food we eat may be almost as important as some crook on Wall Street who destroys the economy," Sanders said during a campaign event in Osage, a town of fewer than 4,000 people. "Those of us who come from rural America have nothing to be ashamed about, and the time is long overdue for us to stand up and fight for our way of life." Sanders plan expands on themes that have been central to his presidential campaign in Iowa since the start, including his emphasis on rural America and pledge to take on and break up big corporations. During his Sunday speech, Sanders outlined the dire circumstances confronting rural America population decline, school and hospital closures and rising addiction and suicide rates in many rural counties nationwide as the impetus for his policy. His plan includes a number of antitrust proposals, including breaking up existing agriculture monopolies and placing a moratorium on future mergers by big agriculture companies. ADVERTISEMENT His plan calls for a shift from the current farm subsidy system toward a "parity system," which means "setting price floors and matching supply with demand so farmers are guaranteed the cost of production and family living expenses." Critics of the farm bill have argued that the current government subsidy system favors large family farms and corporate farms over small family farms, and Sanders policy aims to make that distribution more equal. Such a major change in agriculture policy would require congressional action and would likely face fierce opposition from the farm lobby but Sanders pledged to fight for farmers against corporate interests. "In rural America, we are seeing giant agribusiness conglomerates extract as much wealth out of small communities as they possibly can while family farmers are going bankrupt and in many ways are being treated like modern-day indentured servants," Sanders said. Sanders also would classify food supply security as a national security issue and increase scrutiny over foreign ownership of American farmland. And he suggests re-establishing a "national grain and feed reserve" in case of a natural disaster or severe weather event a proposal inspired in part by the recent flooding on Iowas eastern and western borders, which swamped acres of cropland and wiped out farmers stores. After a year that saw median incomes drop and a winter that was catastrophic, dairy farmers are putting a spotlight on their struggles to legislators at the state and national levels. According to the Minnesota Milk Producers Association, Minnesota lost more than 10 percent of its dairy farms last year. A University of Minnesota report also found that the median income of dairy farms dropped by two-thirds from one year ago, to less than $15,000. Lucas Sjostrom, executive director of the MMPA, said without some help from Minnesota Legislature this session, the trends are likely to continue. The MMPA has asked the Minnesota Legislature to adopt proposals this session that would help dairy families through these economic hardships. One of those proposals, for state dairy margin insurance rebates, is being considered in both the House and Senate this session. If passed, it would allow farmers enrolled in the federal dairy margin coverage program to get some relief from the state as well. ADVERTISEMENT Sjostrom said the proposal not only has support from legislators in rural districts, but also lawmakers in suburban areas who may only have a handful of dairy farms in their district. "Weve heard from legislators in rural and suburban districts that its time to step up for dairy farmers," he said. The bill has $10 million allotted in the House and $2 million in the Senate. MMPAs proposed $16 million for the program. Right now both measures are in omnibus bills. Sjostrom said MMPA has no preference for which committee the relief comes out of, as long as it gets done. Hes hopeful, but knows theres a chance it could get kicked out in the weeks remaining in the session. Sjostrom said helping the states dairy industry is important because its a part of the social fabric of Minnesota. "If you look at our township boards, school boards and a lot of other leadership positions, youll see a lot of dairy farmers," said Sjostrom, a dairy farmer himself. "Its not because were smarter or think were better than any other citizen, its because were more vested." He said that comes from their line of work, where it takes five years for a calf to return profit to the farm. That means dairy farmers are always planning at least a few years down the road. "I think thats why dairy farmers care so much about the longevity and their social interactions with the community," said Sjostrom. ADVERTISEMENT After hearing from rural Minnesotans about what farmers are facing, 2nd District Rep. Angie Craig spoke at a House Agriculture Committee subcommittee hearing last week about why the 2018 Farm Bill needs to be fully implemented. The new farm bill offers help to small dairy farmers. "When it comes to the dairy farmers in my district, were talking about families who have known no other life than dairy farming," said Craig. "Family dairy farmers are part of the central fabric of Greater Minnesota." Craig said that in Wabasha and Goodhue counties, theres been a 15 percent loss of dairy farmers since 2012. Almost 40 people showed up for a conversation that Craig attended with community health advocates and providers in Wabasha County to discuss how they could increase access to critical mental health resources for farmers. "What farmers really want, for the hard work theyve put in, and their families have put in is a fair price and access to markets," said Craig. "If we have those two things, we do not have the mental health issues." At a Rural Voices Discussion in Cannon Falls on April 26, Craig said shes asking tough questions in Washington for farmers, and has been vocal about how the new United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement could have some serious downsides to go along with its minor improvements. Provisions in the USMCA would increase the cost of U.S. healthcare. "And Ive said to the Secretary (Sonny Perdue), dont make farmers choose between access to the markets and the cost of their health care," said Craig. "Because with dairy farmers earning an average of just under $15,000 in 2018, health insurance on the individual market costs more than that." ADVERTISEMENT Minnesota Milk Producers Association surveyed all of its members, who are dairy farmers, on the current economic conditions of the dairy industry. The responses were submitted to MN Milk between April 5 and 24. 97 percent of those surveyed said the current economic conditions were "poor" for Minnesota dairy farmers. 91 percent strongly agreed with the statement that "Minnesota dairy farmers are in a crisis, experiencing some of the worst economic conditions in years". When asked to describe their current situation with securing operating loans with lenders, 40 percent of members polled said they either cant get financing, or the terms are unreasonable. 79 percent of the members surveyed said it was very important that legislature authorized support to help dairy farmers through current economic conditions. "Tax relief by adopting a conformity provision to the new federal tax law when farmers sell through cooperatives." This bill never got a hearing in either the House or Senate, mostly because it was introduced after most of the state's tax bill had been decided on. "Conservation payments to eligible dairy farms that adopt sound conservation and sustainability practices." This bill got a hearing in both the House and Senate, but the complexity of how the payments would be regulated caused it to fall out of favor. AUSTIN More than 2,000 households in Mower County townships this year will receive a free nitrate-testing kit from the state for their propertys well. Nitrate is one of the most common ground water pollutants found in rural areas. Drinking water with high nitrate concentrations can cause serious health effects in infants. The presence of nitrate also could be an indicator of other pollutants in water. Mower Soil and Water Conservation District has teamed with the Minnesota Department of Agriculture to bring free nitrate testing of wells to 12 of the Mower Countys 20 townships. People in the select townships with household wells will receive a free nitrate test kit in the mail starting in May, along with information about the program. Each participants personal information will be kept confidential. Townships targeted by the program will include Austin, Bennington, Frankford, Lansing, LeRoy, Lyle, Nevada, Pleasant Valley, Racine, Red Rock, Udolpho and Windom. MDA evaluated Mower County townships for aquifer vulnerability and proportion of land in row crop production. Starting in mid-May, MDA officials will mail about 250 kits per week to Mower County households. Mailings will be done in alphabetical order of townships, with Austin Township getting kits first and Windom Township last. ADVERTISEMENT In general, townships selected for the nitrate sampling program have greater than 30 percent of its land area identified as having vulnerable geology and have at least 20 percent of the land area in row crop production. Participation in the test will help Mower County get a better understanding of local nitrate levels and provide homeowners with information about their drinking water. For more information, call Mower SWCD at 507-434-2603, ext. 5, or email resource specialist Steve Lawler at steve.lawler@mowerswcd.org. LE SUEUR, Minn. Kelsey Schwartz enjoys the multiple roles she plays, settling into the Le Sueur-Henderson community. But its farm life that continues to capture her heart and soul. Truth be told, shes "a butterhead." Schwartz is a former Princess Kay of the Milky Way finalist in 2012, with her head of butter sculpted at the State Fair still stored frozen at her grandfathers. "Im sort of a butterhead," she joked, but that could be coming to an end. "My grandpa said Ive got to come and get that thing out of his freezer." Her love of agriculture started early, growing up on a farm in the Owatonna area. She moved on to the University of Minnesotas Twin Cities campus with plans of going into teaching and educational administration. ADVERTISEMENT "I probably wanted to be a high school ag teacher," Schwartz said, "but I changed to the business track about halfway through." Schwartz, 26, earned a bachelors degree in agriculture education leadership and communications with a minor in animal science. Its served her well. She currently serves as a talent acquisition specialist for Le Sueur-based Agropur. Schwartz is one of two international recruiters for the company. She thinks farming provides "a good foundation" for all of her work. "Its an easy talking point," Schwartz said. "Everybody has some kind of connection to agriculture." Working out of her rural Le Sueur farm also mixes well with her other roles, as Schwartz handles the business side of the family farm with husband Brett. Theyve been farming together since 2012. Bretts parents farm is nearby, which encouraged the couple to settle in rural Le Sueur. "Brett does almost all the work in the barn," Schwartz said. The couple operates a wean-to-finish operation for Gaylord-based Wakefield Pork. "I handle the business side of things." As one 3,000-unit wean-to-finish operation gets ready to farm out, another comes in, at times resulting in 6,000 young hogs housed at the Schwartz operation. It can take up to six semis to move the pigs during that time, Brett Schwartz said. But Kelseys love of education also prompted her to seek a spot on the Le Sueur-Henderson School Board, where she has served since January 2017. Her agricultural background, she believes, will benefit the district as it moves forward on a potential school building referendum. ADVERTISEMENT Schwartz loves her busy lifestyle, with her Agropur employment, the farm duties and her work on the school board. Still, the entrepreneur in her keeps thinking of more. Schwartz has dabbled in blogging and loves decorating. Shes recently decorated the couples farmhouse, a former country school building. "I think (decorating) could be a side business," Schwartz said. "I like it. Its a good hobby. And I really like to bake, too." Soon, shell likely have plenty of butter to work with. Spring is here, but Minnesotas winter is never far away, so its the perfect time for Winterstate to give us their album. While the bands name is cold, their music will heat things up at an album release party held at Pure Rock Studios Saturday. The title of the new album, "The Ride," suggests the geographic contortions Alex Ortberg and Kelvin Killmon went through in order to collaborate. Both the musicians behind Winterstate are originally from Minnesota, but the two met for the first time in Valencia, Spain while learning at the Berklee College of Music. After their musical studies, Ortberg came to Rochester while Killmon moved to Seattle. Despite being separated by some 1,700 miles, the two still managed to put an entire record together, bouncing ideas back and forth on the internet and recording in their respective cities. Given technological advances, Killmon thinks creating together across continents will become more prevalent. "This type of long-distance collaboration will become increasingly common," he says. "Now, you can capture a quick demo of a new part and send it to anywhere in the world instantaneously. You can have jam sessions over Skype." Though the barriers of distance might be disintegrating, the songs that Ortberg and Killmon created together over three years by trading tracks back and forth via email and layering instruments require more than two musicians to perform live, so the two put together a band comprised of Rochester musicians. Killmon, the lyricist and melodic composer for Winterstate, will take the role of lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist. Ortberg, responsible for most of the underlying instrumental tracks on the record including his distinctive drumming, will play lead guitar at the show. The pair will be rounded out into a full band with Joseph Rob (guitar), Scott Strauss (bass), Ryan Utterback (drums), and Amanda Jay (keys and backing vocals). Ortberg describes Winterstates sound as "alternative rock music that is indicative of early 2000s and 90s punk rock, with a modern polish." Killmon suggests that fans of bands like The Killers, Incubus, and My Chemical Romance will be in tune with songs from "The Ride." ADVERTISEMENT One track that stands out for this writer is "Twin Size Bed." The song has a nostalgic ethos centered on lost youth and young love that is driven by a chorus filled up with driving distorted guitar. It creates tension and release with verses that have a pop sensibility while layering vocals that break suddenly into sparse instrumental segments. At first listen, the song feels cozy like a favorite sweater that will still be worn long after its ragged. "Hospital Kicks" is another track that might hit home for many in the Med City. The beauty of Killmons lyrics describe the antiseptic precision and pain of hospitals perfectly: "Crisp white sheets in the ICU/chemical drip through a plastic tube." In addition to the Winterstate debut, the release party will feature performances by Kashmir Graffiti, Twin Lakes, the Pure Rock Teen Class, and Amanda Jay. "We both love how the arts scene in Rochester is so connected," says Ortberg, "We wanted to celebrate that as much as we could." Four visual artists will also show works in several mediums during the release party. For Ortberg and Killmon, music is about bringing people together no matter how far apart they might be. "I think Alex and I share a similar vision of what music can be," says Killmon. "Its a tool for building community, and validating the experiences we all share." What Winterstate album release party When ADVERTISEMENT 6-11 p.m. Saturday, May 11 Where Pure Rock Studios of Rochester, 515 Rocky Creek Dr. NE Cost $10 general admission, children under 5 free. I need to lose some weight. Or grow a mustache. Maybe even a full beard. Anything so that people dont recognize me. Often, Ill be out and about, minding my own business, when someone will approach me and ask that dreaded question: "Are you Brian from the Post Bulletin?" Sacred Space Sunday, I was at St. John the Evangelist Church downtown to attend the confirmation Mass for the daughter of some friends. It was a nice day. Saw an old (actually, hes kind of young) priest friend we hadnt seen in a while. The bishop did Mass ("Shout out to His Excellency!"). ADVERTISEMENT By the way, if youve never been to a High Mass at St. Johns, I recommend it. Liturgist and music director, not to mention composer and organist, Sebastian Modarelli is always worth the incense assault. Anyway, I was having a nice day when, suddenly, a man approached and asked that dreaded question: "Excuse me, but arent you Brian Todd?" "Why?" I replied. "Does he owe you money?" Yes, I really said that. Anything to confuse the fans. To his credit, the guy, whos name I dont recall because Im really bad at that sort of thing unless Im taking notes, laughed at my joke, and said, "Uh, no." "Then, yes, I am Brian Todd." And he proceeded to tell me about something he thought Id find interesting as a story. Like Tiger, But With A K ADVERTISEMENT If you are a fan of Twitter and you live in and love all things Rochester, theres a good chance you follow hard-working reporter Jeff Kiger on the social media platform. Someone mentioned recently that hes got the third- or sixth-most followed account in town. Kiger, a social media guru, has more than 5,000 Twitter followers and about 2,500 followers on Facebook. Hes also been a Post Bulletin mainstay for more than 20 years, so he gets the, "Hey, arent you ..?" question everywhere from the library to the folks filling his prescriptions which can seem a bit odd saying, knowingly, "Oh, Jeff Kiger!" Recently, he said, he was going through security at Rochester International Airport and the TSA worker, as Kigers taking off his shoes to place in the plastic bin, says, "Oh, youre the Heard on the Street guy." "A lot of the other times, at restaurants or grocery shopping, thats fine, but this time I was very focused on flying, leaving on vacation," Kiger says. Then, of course, he gets on the plane and what does one of the passengers say? Yeah, you guessed it. Among The Cheeses About six years ago, when I was just freelancing for the Post Bulletin, I wrote the weekly Greenspace column. One day as I shopped at my local Hy-Vee, daughter Hailey in tow, I was accosted near the fancy cheese aisle by a woman Id never met. "Excuse me, are you Brian Todd?" ADVERTISEMENT "Yeeeesssss," I said, with some hesitation. I have a really bad habit of not remembering people Ive met casually just once or twice. Its just not how my brain works. I figured she must be someone from church, which was really the only place I would meet people back then. Alas, that was not the case. The woman, very politely, introduced herself and explained she had recognized me from my photo in the Post Bulletin, the one that accompanied my weekly column. She loved that column, she said, looking forward to reading it every week. She asked me a few questions about where I got my ideas for the columns. We talked briefly about solar energy and the importance of native plants in retention ponds. Eventually, after about five minutes of chatting, she shook my hand and told me it was a pleasure meeting me, and I said the same. Then she walked away. Awestruck, my daughter turned to me and asked, "Dad, are you famous?" "Yes," I said. "To that lady, right there." My Mugshot In College Of course, I should have seen this all coming. When I was in college, I wrote a weekly column in the campus newspaper for nearly two years. One year, as a joke, I used side-by-side photos one facing, one profile like booking mugshots. Around my neck hung a name tag that read "Columnist." I thought it was hilarious. The next year, I did a single shot in what I call the "moose ears" pose: thumbs to my temples, palms and fingers outstretched like moose antlers. When I showed up to a spring semester class on the first day, my professor was going around taking roll. He got to the Ts and called out my name, "Brian Todd." Rather unenthusiastically, I replied, "Here." Then he got halfway through the next name before stopping, looking over at me in surprised recognition, mimicking the moose ears pose and saying, "Hey!" My response: "Dont ever do that again, sir." Alas, that recognition has never stopped. 1994 25 years ago Tom Foegen has been named president of Schmidt Printing Inc. He will direct operations of the companys lineup of presses at Byron and Rochester. A Rochester Community College business instructor is donating $50,000 to the school to pay for college scholarships. Dr. William "Bill" Brunner opened the Dewey and Evalda Brunner Scholarship Fund. Brunner also pledged another $75,000 to the RCC Foundation for future scholarships. 1969 50 years ago George Wilson, executive vice president and treasurer of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Assn., headquartered in Minneapolis, will be the featured speaker at the monthly dinner meeting of the Rochester Christian Mens Committee. ADVERTISEMENT The sixth-grade class of Tyrone Erickson at Bamber Valley School surprised the rest of the student body and principal with a handmade 4-by-6-foot American flag made out of red, white and blue ceramic tile. 1944 75 years ago Signing of 100 boys and 120 girls of Goodhue county schools as victory farm volunteers of the United States crop corps was announced today. The farm help situation in Goodhue County continues to be urgent. Many area farmers are concerned over the delayed spring work due to weather and its effect on the crop outlook. Rochester had 40 births and 18 resident deaths in the month of April, according to Mr. Feldman, city health officer. 1919 100 years ago The following resolution was adopted by the Congregationalists in their convention here in Rochester: "We, the pastors and delegates of the Congregational churches of Minnesota, assembled in the 64th annual conference, desire to express our heartfelt appreciation to our Minnesota heroes returning home from France and being welcomed by the people of Minnesota. We thank them for their service to their country and our God for their safe return." From news services ADVERTISEMENT Ten years ago The top religious adviser to Jordans king thanked visiting Pope Benedict XVI for expressing regret after a 2006 speech that many Muslims deemed insulting to the Prophet Muhammad. Pakistani warplanes pounded the Taliban-held Swat Valley in what the countrys prime minister called a "war of the countrys survival." Five years ago Russian President Vladimir Putin made his first trip to Crimea since its annexation, calling it "historic justice" during a Victory Day display of military pomp and patriotism. A judge struck down Arkansas ban on same-sex marriage, saying the state had "no rational reason" for preventing gay couples from marrying. One year ago Secretary of State Mike Pompeo arrived in North Korea to finalize plans for a summit between President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. Three Americans who had spent more than a year in prison in North Korea were freed during his visit and left North Korea aboard Pompeos plane. Todays Birthdays: Actor-writer Alan Bennett is 85. Actress-turned-politician Glenda Jackson is 83. Producer-director James L. Brooks is 82. Musician Sonny Curtis (Buddy Holly and the Crickets) is 82. Singer Tommy Roe is 77. Singer-musician Richie Furay (Buffalo Springfield and Poco) is 75. Actress Candice Bergen is 73. Pop singer Clint Holmes is 73. Actor Anthony Higgins is 72. Singer Billy Joel is 70. Blues singer-musician Bob Margolin is 70. Rock singer-musician Tom Petersson (Cheap Trick) is 69. Actress Alley Mills is 68. Actress Amy Hill is 66. Actress Wendy Crewson is 63. Actor John Corbett is 58. Singer Dave Gahan (Depeche Mode) is 57. Actress Sonja Sohn is 55. Rapper Ghostface Killah is 49. Country musician Mike Myerson (Heartland) is 48. Actor Chris Diamantopoulos is 44. Rhythm-and-blues singer Tamia is 44. Rock musician Dan Regan (Reel Big Fish) is 42. Actor Daniel Franzese is 41. Rock singer Pierre Bouvier (Simple Plan) is 40. Actress Rosario Dawson is 40. Rock singer Andrew W.K. is 40. Figure skater Angela Nikodinov is 39. Actress Rachel Boston is 37. TV personality Audrina Patridge is 34. Actress Grace Gummer is 33. The case of a Rochester man charged with second-degree murder in the shooting death of a 17-year-old last winter ended earlier this week in a mistrial. The eight women and four men of the jury deliberated about 12 hours in the case of Alexander Weiss before telling Judge Joseph Chase they had reached an impasse and were unable to come up with a unanimous verdict. The trial may be over for now, but many questions still remain. Here are answers to some of those common questions. What is a mistrial? Are they common? A mistrial occurs when either a jury is unable to reach a verdict or if there is a serious procedural error or misconduct that would result in an unfair trial, according to the nonprofit Legal Information Institute, which is housed at Cornell Law School in Ithaca, N.Y. ADVERTISEMENT In Weiss case, the jury was unable to come to the necessary mandatory decision. Jurors were instructed before beginning their deliberations that they should "deliberate with a view toward reaching agreement, if you can do so without violating your individual judgment." "You should not hesitate to reexamine your views and change your opinion if you become convinced they are erroneous, but you should not surrender your honest opinion simply because other jurors disagree or merely to reach a verdict," the final page of jury instructions read. Olmsted County Attorney Mark Ostrem said Wednesday morning that he doesnt have numbers, but mistrials dont happen very often. He recalled one instance when a mistrial was declared after the prosecuting attorney suffered a significant back injury. A jury had already been convened and they were set to start taking testimony but due to the attorneys injury, a mistrial was declared by the judge to allow the attorney time to heal or have another attorney step in. Defense attorney James McGeeney said outside the courthouse Tuesday, in response to the declaration of mistrial, that he believed "the majority of the jurors believed my client was not guilty." How would he, or we, know this? "I dont think we know that," Ostrem said. "There may have been some indication where the split was, but I dont know that we know exactly what the split was." McGeeney, though, reiterated his belief when he was reached by phone Wednesday. "I knew and it was heavily in our favor," he said. McGeeney declined to say specifically how he knew. ADVERTISEMENT There might have been some sort of indication in one of the notes the jury sent to the judge. Neither of the two Post Bulletin reporters who covered the trial on Tuesday heard members of the jury give any sort of indication as to what they thought the verdict was, other than they had reached an impasse. Ostrem said the County Attorneys Office would not follow up with the eight women and four men of the jury. What happens to Weiss bail/bond? Is he a free man or is he subject to the conditions of his release before the trial? Weiss posted bond with conditions including that he not leave the state without written court approval, remain law-abiding and not use or possess firearms or dangerous weapons. McGeeney had asked the court to have the conditions lifted, but that request was denied. Thus, all of Weiss conditions of release that were set before trial remain in place. Why did Judge Joseph Chase ask the attorneys, "What do we do now?" Isnt a judge supposed to know? And what do we do now? ADVERTISEMENT The question was not asked in confusion Chase was asking the prosecutor how he wanted to proceed. "The prosecutor has the choice now ... are you going to retry the case?" asked Brad Colbert, a resident adjunct professor at Mitchell Hamline School of Law and a public defender for the Minnesota Public Defenders Office. Colbert is not an attorney on the trial. It is not yet known if the Olmsted County Attorneys Office will retry the case. A determination is likely to be made public on June 6 after a scheduled hearing. In the meantime, the case effectively goes back to where it was before the trial a started. What specific instructions did the jury get on self-defense? Page 16 of the instructions to the jury reads as follows: "Self-defense means that the person used reasonable force against another to resist an offense against the person, and such an offense was being committed or the person reasonably believed that it was. It is law for a person who is resisting an offense against his person, and who has reasonable grounds to believe that bodily injury is about to be inflicted upon him, to defend from an attack. In doing so, the person may use all force and means that he reasonably believes to be necessary and that would appear to a reasonable person, in similar circumstance, to be necessary to prevent an injury that appears to be imminent. The kind and degree of force a person may lawfully use in self-defense is limited by what a reasonable person in the same situation would believe to be necessary. Any use of force beyond that is regarded by the law as excessive. The legal excuse of self-defense is available only to those who act honestly and in good faith. This includes the duty to retreat or avoid the danger if reasonably possible. The defendant is not guilty of a crime if he acted in self-defense. The State has the burden of proving beyond a reasonable doubt that the defendant did not act in self-defense." Police had to break down a bedroom door Wednesday night to arrest a Rochester man who was allegedly assaulting his wife with a hammer. Police were called to a house in the 5100 block of 54th Avenue Northwest at about 7 p.m., where a 40-year-old woman and her daughter were waiting outside. The woman told police her father was assaulting her mother, said Rochester Police Capt. Casey Moilanen. Police entered the house and heard noise coming from a bedroom. The door was locked, but officers were able to kick out a panel in the door. Through that broken panel, Moilanen said, they saw the victim on the floor covered in blood. They tased the alleged assaulter, who resisted arrest, and eventually took him into custody. Arrested was Joseph Kinyanjui, 65. Charges are pending, but Kinyanjui will likely face either first- or second-degree assault charges, Moilanen said. The 66-year-old victim was transported to Mayo Clinic HospitalSaint Marys Campus with head trauma and multiple significant injuries. She was in and out of consciousness at the scene and was able to talk to officers, Moilanen said. No report on her condition was available Thursday morning. ADVERTISEMENT Kinyanjui was also taken to Saint Marys for medical clearance before being taken to the adult detention center. The morning before heading into negotiations over Minnesotas health and human services budget, Michelle Benson heard a news story about a new wonder drug that could potentially cure spinal muscular atrophy a crippling and often fatal disease in babies. The only problem? It could cost $2 million a dose. "These are the debates that we end up having as policy makers: Who pays for that?" said Benson, a Republican state senator from Ham Lake, Minn., and chair of the Health and Human Services Finance Committee. "The miracles that are created in the pharmaceutical industry, we celebrate, but they also need to treat consumers fairly." Its not just the miracle drugs. The price of brand-name oral prescription drugs already on the market rose more than 9 percent a year between 2008 and 2016, according to a recent report in the Journal on Health Affairs, while the annual cost of injectable drugs rose more than 15 percent. The price of insulin doubled between 2012 and 2016, according to the Health Care Cost Institute. Impacts all Minnesotans ADVERTISEMENT This session, Minnesota lawmakers are trying to get their hands around skyrocketing drug prices and the complex pharmaceutical industry that sets the prices. Bills have been introduced to tackle the problem, from anti-price gouging efforts to new reporting requirements for drug companies when prices suddenly spike. Even in a divided Legislature, nearly all those bills are tucked into House and Senate budget bills and are heading into the final negotiations of the 2019 session. "This is something that impacts all Minnesotans at one time or another, and its really driving the increases of the cost of health care," said DFL Rep. Tina Liebling of Rochester, chairwoman of the House Health and Human Services Budget Committee. The bipartisan push has been fueled by horror stories from Minnesotans. Nicole Smith-Holt has become a regular around the Capitol talking about her son Alec Smith, a Type 1 diabetic who died at age 26 because he was rationing insulin that he couldnt afford. Legislators keep his photo in their wallets and on their desks. "Its an honor, it feels good," she said. "It feels like Alec is motivating these people to do good for other Type 1 (diabetes)." Variety of bills The House budget includes a bill that would create a new registration fee for insulin manufacturers to help pay for emergency insulin supplies. ADVERTISEMENT At the last minute, Benson added language to the Senate health and human services budget that would create an emergency insulin assistance program in the state Department of Human Services. Both the House and Senate bills also create a new requirement that drug makers provide notice to the state when drug prices are being increased substantially. But while supporters say these bills will increase drug pricing transparency, some argue they wont actually change drug prices for Minnesotans. Rep. John Lesch, DFL-St. Paul, introduced a bill that allows the attorney general to investigate a drug company when the price of a drug spikes by 50 percent or more. But he said that bill is not going anywhere in the Senate. "People are dying, and unfortunately for the Republicans, it will take a few more people dying before they wake up and see, No, we actually need some remedial measures on drug company profits and helping people out," he said. Benefit managers There are also bills moving through the Capitol this year to regulate pharmacy benefit managers. They negotiate with drug manufacturers on behalf of the government and insurers, and the deals they strike determine the availability and prices of prescription drugs for more than 266 million Americans. But they do this out of view of the public and regulators, which leads to confusion about how drug prices are set. ADVERTISEMENT The Senate has already passed a bill to make the pharmacy benefit manager process more transparent, including a licensing requirement, and the House could take it up as early as this week. "We have to look at every piece of the supply chain and look at what we can do," said Sen. Scott Jensen, R-Chaska, the bill author and one of a handful of physicians in the Legislature. If lawmakers dont act quickly enough on drug prices, Jensen said, voters will likely increase pressure on them in the next election. "This place operates so slowly and sometimes things have to happen incrementally when I think, gee whiz, its as plain as the nose on your face, lets just get it done," he said. "It drives me crazy." In light of the growing cannabis industry across the nation, a group of 38 attorneys general are urging Congress to allow cannabis-related businesses access to the banking system. Attorney General Leevin T. Camacho has joined this national bipartisan coalition, according to a press release. Specifically, the coalition wants Congress to pass the federal Secure and Fair Enforcement Banking Act, H.R. 1595, or similar measures that would give licensed cannabis-related businesses access to the federal banking system. Success! An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup. Error! There was an error processing your request. This legislation would give properly licensed cannabis-related businesses access to banking services, reducing the likelihood that they will become targets of crime, said Attorney General Camacho. The Safe Banking Act would also improve the ability of the Department of Revenue and Taxation to regulate and monitor cannabis-related sales and revenue. The call from attorneys general follows other efforts to resolve the cannabis cash clash between the federal government and states and territories that allow some form of cannabis industry in their jurisdiction. Under existing law, federal regulators prohibit financial institutions from providing services to cannabis businesses in states and territories where medical or retail cannabis sales are legal. Forcing legal businesses to operate as cash-only operations poses serious safety threats, creating targets for violent and white-collar crime. The SAFE Banking Act permits cannabis-related businesses in states and territories with existing regulatory structures to access the federal banking system. The American Bankers Association, in a fourth-quarter 2018 report titled Compliance and the Cannabis Conundrum, noted that Guam, Puerto Rico, the District of Columbia and 33 states have legalized some level of marijuana use, and urged Congress to address the contradictory policies. Despite legalization at the state or territory level, the national bankers group stated, "the possession, distribution or sale of marijuana remains illegal under federal law, which means any contact with money that can be traced back to state marijuana operations could be considered money laundering and expose a bank to significant legal, operational and regulatory risk." SAFE Banking Act The SAFE Banking Act has widespread, bipartisan support with 172 cosponsors in the U.S. House. The House Financial Services Committee approved the bill in March and now it awaits a vote by the full House. In the letter, the signatories wrote, Our banking system must be flexible enough to address the needs of businesses in the various states and territories, with state and territorial input, while protecting the interests of the federal government. This includes a banking system for marijuana-related businesses that is both responsive and effective in meeting the demands of our economy. Historically, NAAG endorses less than a dozen policies a year. The coalition of attorneys general represent: Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Connecticut, Colorado, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Guam, Hawaii, Illinois, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Dakota, the Northern Mariana Islands, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Puerto Rico, Rhode Island, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, and Wisconsin. (Daily Post Staff ) BOYERTOWN Boyertown Police have a shiny new office to look forward to after what the chief described as many years in the making. Officers from Boyertown could be seen packing up boxes from their old station at Borough Hall and transporting them to their new home at 16 W. Philadelphia Ave. early Wednesday morning, May 8. Weve been working on it for a long time. Ive been chief for 17 years and Ive been asking borough council for more space and specific improvements to our accommodations for a long time, said Boyertown Police Chief Barry Leatherman. Leatherman said the building the department is moving into was a gift from BB&T Bank to the borough. Borough Council graciously made a big commitment and spent quite a bit of money and is doing an extensive renovation on this building to accommodate us, said Leatherman. The new location will allow the department of seven full-time officers to have more separated spaces that will better accommodate their day-to-day work. Leatherman said in their previous location, officers often did multiple types of work such as evidence processing and paperwork in the same small work space. They will now be equipped with separate rooms specifically for each task of their job. Our space in Borough Hall was essentially two rooms. There was no separate space for different functions that we do, Leatherman said. Processing of evidence, cleaning of guns, that sort of stuff. It occurred on the desktop. Youd put some newspaper down and youre throwing fingerprint powder around on the desktop or gun cleaning chemicals and your computer is sitting right there, paperwork and things. Additionally, Leatherman added, the new space will be more accommodating to visitors as well. At our space in borough hall there was no place for a person to even sit down while waiting to speak to someone. Theres no good place for an officer to speak with someone privately out of the public view, he said. Here we have a main entrance off West Philadelphia Avenue and theres a seating area at the reception area, a public restroom attached to the public area and theres an interview room on the other side where officers can have a private place to speak to someone without being in our work area or co-mingling. The new building includes several offices for the chief and sergeants as well as a new training and instructional room. The building also provides space for mens and womens locker rooms and a garage for police vehicles. Signs for the front of the new police station are not yet out on display but Leatherman said the department is hoping to have them sometime in the next week. Its exciting. Im glad to see progress. Its a lot of work and it would be easier in a sense to just stay where were at and do what weve been doing but thats not the right thing to do. So Im thankful that Borough Council and the mayor and the borough manager and everyone on our team of local government has been supportive, seen the need and made a commitment, said Leatherman. CONSHOHOCKEN Montgomery County is home to some of the most courageous law enforcement officers and citizens. That was made clear when the Montgomery County District Attorneys Office honored 35 members of law enforcement and four civilians who showed extraordinary work performance and bravery. The commendations were awarded to officers from 18 police agencies throughout the county for various investigations and pursuits dating back to 2015. Together, these stories of going that extra mile to solve a crime, complete an investigation, save a life, protect others or fast-thinking action where law enforcement and civilians put themselves in danger as they worked to help someone else. They are stories of compassion and comfort. They are heroic stories, said Montgomery County District Attorney Kevin Steele in his opening comments. Many of the commendations presented Wednesday were related to widely publicized cases involving robbery, burglary, sexual assault, drug violations, domestic violence and shootings. Police recipients The following officers were recognized Wednesday for their efforts in investigations or other bravery: Abington Township Police Department Detective Lt. Steven Fink For the successful multi-jurisdictional investigation into a string of burglaries and the jeweler fence and for diligently working to reunite the stolen jewelry with its rightful owners. Sgt. Drew Kemp For heroic actions in a dangerous domestic violence hostage situation that ended with the safe rescue of all victims. Cheltenham Township Police Department For the investigation into two armed robberies at a 7-Eleven store and a CVS: Officer Stewart Coyle Sgt. Joseph ONeill Detective Sgt. Richard Schaffer Hatfield Township Police Department Detective Sgt. Richard Hoffner For the successful investigation of five rooftop burglaries in Montgomery County and the subsequent arrests of three individuals Lansdale Borough Police Department Detective Joel Greco For the successful investigation and support of two young girls who had been sexually assaulted by three men known to the family. Lower Merion Police Department Officer A. Edward Bove For the heads-up pursuit of an armed bank robber that resulted in his apprehension. Detective Christine Konieczny For the successful multi-jurisdictional investigation into a string of burglaries and the jeweler fence and for diligently working to reunite the stolen jewelry with its rightful owners. Detective Gregory Pitchford For the successful multi-jurisdictional investigation into a string of burglaries and the jeweler fence and for diligently working to reunite the stolen jewelry with its rightful owners. Additionally for dedication to investigating all overdose deaths in Montgomery County and arresting the drug dealers who sold them. Lower Pottsgrove Police Department For the successful investigation that used facial recognition software to identify a dangerous armed robber: Sgt. Robert Greenwood Detective Daniel Kienle Officer Matthew Musselman Montgomery Township Police Department Officer Daniel Rose For a traffic stop in a high crime area that led to the arrests of two individuals for drugs and the recovery of nine stolen firearms. Detective Todd Walter For the successful investigation of five rooftop burglaries in Montgomery County and the subsequent arrests of three individuals New Castle County, Del. Police Department Detective Sgt. David DiNardo For the successful multi-jurisdictional investigation into a string of burglaries and the jeweler fence and for diligently working to reunite the stolen jewelry with its rightful owners. Norristown Police Department Detective David Crawford For the successful investigation of five rooftop burglaries in Montgomery County and the subsequent arrests of three individuals. Additionally for the successful investigation and prosecution of an attempted murder. Officer Brian Saxon For the successful investigation and prosecution of an attempted murder. Pennsylvania State Police Harry Gaab, Pennsylvania State Parole For the successful investigation and prosecution of an attempted murder. Philadelphia Police Department Officer Kevin Gorman Detective Timothy Hartman For the investigation into two armed robberies at a 7-Eleven store and a CVS. Plymouth Township Police Department Officer Christopher Schwartz For dedication to investigating all overdose deaths in Montgomery County and arresting the drug dealers who sold them. Pottstown Police Department For the investigation into an attempted murder in Pottstown, the support of the victim and the manhunt and ultimate arrest of the suspect: Detective Brooke Fisher Detective Sgt. Thomas Leahan Detective Heather Long Officer Corey Pfister Officer Jacob Ritter Detective Mark Wickersham Springfield Township Police Department For the investigation into two armed robberies at a 7-Eleven store and a CVS: Detective Robert Baiada Detective Cpl. Robert Chiarlanza Detective Stephen Craig Upper Dublin Township Police Department Detective Michael Scarpato For the investigation and arrest of an internet predator who raped a 14-year-old girl. Upper Gwynedd Township Police Department Detective Raymond Royds For the successful investigation into stolen cyanide and for coordinating with multiple agencies on the investigation of the poison being dumped. Upper Merion Township Police Department Detective Brendan Dougherty For the successful investigation of five rooftop burglaries in Montgomery County and the subsequent arrests of three individuals Whitpain Township Police Department Officer Francis Rippert For dedication to investigating all overdose deaths in Montgomery County and arresting the drug dealers who sold them. Civilian recipients Four civilians were also honored Wednesday for their assistance in apprehending suspects or for showing bravery during a dangerous situation. The following individuals were honored with commendations: Rafael Ortiz of Philadelphia For bravery in the face of a surprise attack and for saving the life of his friend. Jason Bodnar of Norristown For preventing further violence by talking a man, who had just shot his father, into putting down his firearm. Cameron Barrett of Collegeville For his courageous efforts to help in the apprehension of a man who caused a major car crash and then carjacked another car to flee. Kimberly Ann Olivera of Feasterville For her quick actions when faced with an armed bank robber that helped save her co-workers and customers from harm. Sharing these stories of heroism today makes me incredibly proud of Montgomery County both proud of our citizens and proud of our law enforcement personnel across the county. There are many more incredible stories of bravery and heroism, big and small, that happen every day on every single shift, and I wish we could share each and every one of them, concluded Steele. These law enforcement and civilians as well as the law enforcement agencies we have singled out and honored here today represent the best our county has to offer, said Steele. Recently, our state House members voted 191-6 to make the Eastern hellbender Pennsylvanias official state amphibian. Unfortunately, some lawmakers find it easier to stand up for a salamander than for working Pennsylvanians. For proof, look no further than a commonsense workers rights bill currently pending in the Legislature. Last year in Janus v. AFSCME, the United States Supreme Court affirmed the right of public workers not to pay a union as a condition of employment. In light of that ruling, Rep. Kate Klunk (R-York County) introduced the Employee Rights Notification Act (HB 785) a simple bill that would ensure workers know their rights and bring Pennsylvania state law in line with the courts ruling. This bill should be an easy lift. But many of the same lawmakers willing to endorse a hellbender are hell-bent against endorsing Rep. Klunks notification bill. Their reasoning was best summed up by Rep. Gene DiGirolamo (R-Bucks), who stated regarding the notification bill, Its like whacking a hornets nest. I dont see why we need to pile on to that [Janus] decision. The groups being compared to angry hornets are none other than the very groups that supposedly champion workers rights: government unions, which oppose the legislation. As for piling on the Janus decision, lawmakers fear further upsetting these hornets that are already upset at losing their unconstitutional ability to extract forced fees from non-members. This fear is telling for several reasons. First, it reveals government unions have stingers, which as anyone who follows Pennsylvania politics knows is the massive amounts of money public sector unions use to advance their political agenda and influence lawmakers. A recent Commonwealth Foundation analysis of political spending during the 2018 election cycle showed government unions were far and away the largest political spenders at more than $17.2 million. This is more than double the second-biggest special-interest spender: trial lawyers, at nearly $8.4 million. And it dwarfed groups the Left loves to malign: natural gas ($2.38 million), energy ($1.49 million), and gun owners ($734,238). Second, it shows some lawmakers fear of upsetting government union leaders outweighs their belief that workers should be informed of their rights. Third and perhaps most ironically it suggests a handful of Republican lawmakers missed the lesson of 2018; namely, government unions will gladly sting Republican lawmakers who vote for union interests if it means the chance to get a Democrat into office. Indeed, many of the Republicans who lost in last years Blue Wave particularly in Southeast Pennsylvania tried a strategy of union appeasement. Former Reps. Alex Charlton, Becky Corbin, Kate Harper, Jamie Santora, and Tom Quigley all voted with government union interests. It didnt save them on Election Day, as they all became electoral targets and casualties of government-union-funded opposition. Standing up for workers rights may, indeed, be analogous to whacking a hornets nest. But thats a flimsy reason to stay seated. As everyone knows (everyone, it seems, except a few lawmakers), if you have a hornets nest near your home stinging your kids, you remove it. You dont just leave it and hope the hornets will have a change of heart and stop stinging in the future. And while its true that hornets will retaliate if you go after them, thats no excuse for letting them rule your home or dictate your vote. Thankfully, while some run the other way, there are lawmakers willing to buy enough Raid to soak the hornets nest. These are the leaders fighting to inform workers of their rights. And these are the champions working Pennsylvanians deserve. Matthew J. Brouillette is president and CEO of Commonwealth Partners Chamber of Entrepreneurs and host of Brews & Views. The Democrats are out of ammo, so they continue to flog the dead horse of the Mueller Report. Today, Democrats on the House Judiciary Committee voted to hold Attorney General William Barr in contempt of Congress. I assume the full House will follow up with such a citation on a party-line vote. Democrats have demanded that Barr produce the full, unredacted Mueller Report, perhaps on the theory that there must be a pony in there somewhereif you remember the old jokebut more likely, simply to distract attention from the booming economy. Barr says that because it is illegal to disseminate grand jury testimony without the consent of the witnesses, he cannot legally comply with the Democrats demands. This position appears to be correct. In any event, I have not seen any attempt at a coherent response to it. The Democrats move is exclusively political. It has no practical consequences. It does remind us, however, that the first Attorney General to be cited for contempt of Congress was Eric Holder. In that case, Congressional Republicans were trying to get documents relating to the Fast and Furious scandal. Unlike todays vote, the Houses vote to find Holder in contempt was bipartisan, with 17 Democrats joining the Republicans in the vote to hold Holder in criminal contempt. (21 Democrats voted to hold him in civil contempt.) Because of Holders stonewalling, Congress never did get to the bottom of the Fast and Furious gun-running fiasco. In that long-ago era of 2012, Democrats had a very different view of the merits of holding an Attorney General in contempt. Nancy Pelosi termed the contempt motion ridiculous, and said Its not only to monopolize [Holders] time, its to undermine his name. Adam Schiff: We ought to be thinking about what this does to the future relationship between the two branches of government and how the subpoena power is used and how it is abused. But, unfortunately, here I think it has become now a completely political exercise. Elijah Cummings: You accused him of a cover-up for protecting documents that he was prohibited by law from producing. You claimed that he and I quote obstructed end of quote the committees work by complying with federal statutes passed by both houses of Congress and signed by the president of the United States. There is another difference between the two contempt votes. I did a Google search for Holder contempt Congress. It returned 2,520,000 results. Next I searched for Barr contempt Congress, and got 46,900,000 results: a 19 to 1 ratio. Is anyone surprised? PR-Inside.com: 2019-05-09 04:25:57 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 465 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 United Legal launches a new YouTube Channel aimed at Canberrans with a personal injury claim that plans to cover Canberra Personal InjuryLawyers. The channel and the extensive video content can be found atFYSHWICK, AUSTRALIA / ACCESSWIRE / May 8, 2019 / Canberrans with a personal injury claim. looking for the latest information on Canberra Personal Injury Lawyers are invited to subscribe to the all-new YouTube channel by United Legal. This new channel promises to provide expert guidance and information on Canberra Personal Injury Lawyers, on a regular basis.This new YouTube channel was created specifically with the needs of people in Canberra with a workers' compensation, motor vehicle accident, medical negligence, or other personal injury claim in mind, and United Legal welcomes input on which topics to explore.Peter Glover, Co-Founder at United Legal said: ''Our explainer videos are informative, engaging and really easy to understand. We have plans to release more videos, including videos that are both interactive and personalised. So make sure to subscribe to our channel..''United Legal's Co-Founder goes on to say: ''The aim of the new YouTube Channel is to explain the range of personal injury types and how to make a claim for motor vehicle accidents, workplace accidents, medical negligence, public liability and product liability accidents. The more feedback we can get, the better we can serve our audience.Anybody interested in Canberra Personal Injury Lawyers and current United Legal fans and supporters, can subscribe to the YouTube channel here https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCux_b642BpFRk7KK5sE0NUQ Alternatively, they are welcome to read more on the company website at: https://www.unitedlegal.com.au Some of the planned subjects for upcoming videos include:Personal Injury Claims in Canberra, ACT The types of Personal Injury Cases and forms of potential injury and compensation claims. Worker's Compensation Claims in Canberra, ACT What you are going to, or likely to get from a worker's compensation or damages claim. Medical Negligence Malpractice Claims in Canberra, ACT Expert medical lawyers, Peter Glover, Rob Montagnino and Noman Farooq have decades of experience among them and they understand that medical negligence is not just about the mistakes medical professionals have made its about the impact it has on your life and future.The YouTube Channel launched on April 17th, new viewers can view all the latest videos here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCux_b642BpFRk7KK5sE0NUQ Further details on the channel, the direction and other information on United Legal itself can be found on their website: https://www.unitedlegal.com.au Contact Info:Name: Peter GloverOrganization: United LegalAddress: Unit 1/54-56 Townsville St, Fyshwick, ACT 2609, AustraliaPhone: +61-2-6295-2283Website: https://www.unitedlegal.com.au SOURCE: United Legal PR-Inside.com: 2019-05-09 21:48:10 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 402 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 LOS ANGELES, CA / ACCESSWIRE / May 9, 2019 / Captis Intelligence, a leading provider of I-4 crime solutions (Intelligence, Information, Investigation, Identification) today announced that it has signed an agreement with ADT as a reseller of its pioneering I-4 technology. This latest agreement with ADT continues the Company's rapid expansion of its distribution channels.ADT continues to expand its product portfolio and geographic reach to serve enterprise customers. The Captis I-4 system will be part of ADT's expanded offerings to its retail and national account customers and will be supported by Captis' corporate office located in Los Angeles.The announcement comes in the wake of a major acceleration in growth for Captis which has recently signed a number of Fortune 500 clients to national contracts involving thousands of locations. The rapid growth, in large part, can be attributed to Captis' innovative product platform comprised of several industry-first solutions.''As our customers' security needs continue to grow and evolve, we are constantly looking to add new technologies to our portfolio to meet those evolving needs,'' said Rex Gillette, Vice President of Retail Sales for ADT.Aligning with Captis will provide ADT access to the powerful I-4 system which unifies several industry-first technologies within 4 categories of Intelligence, Information, Investigation, and Identification. Features such as PRISM (Protective Research & Investigation in Social Media), and Solveacrime.com access, are just a few of the solutions that make up the Captis I-4 cloud-based system.''We have strategically pursued specific market verticals with significant partners who share our vision and have a high level of expertise,'' stated Kirk Brown, Vice President of Business Development with Captis Intelligence. ''ADT is a leading provider in the electronic security and alarm market and we are excited to partner with them.'' For more information on Captis Intelligence, please visit www.captisintelligence.com For more information on ADT Commercial, please visit www.adt.com/commercial About Captis IntelligenceCaptis Intelligence's I-4 platform (Intelligence, Information, Investigation, Identification) provides an advanced cloud-based system for public and private sector applications. Captis unifies situational awareness, geographic crime intelligence, social media investigation, subject identification, criminal databases, access to solveacrime.com , and secured information exchange portals for neighboring businesses and law enforcement. A global innovator, Captis is headquartered in Los Angeles and has offices in London and Singapore. Captis was founded on the principle of innovation and remains at the forefront of pioneering I-4 crime prevention/suspect identification technologies.SOURCE: Captis Intelligence PR-Inside.com: 2019-05-09 15:08:42 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 536 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 Partnership with Safaricom Foundation Underscores Managed Workforce Leader's Growing Presence in the RegionNAIROBI, KENYA / ACCESSWIRE / May 9, 2019 / CloudFactory, a global leader in managed cloud workforce solutions, today announced it is expanding its mission in Kenya with the launch of a new learning initiative designed to expand digital skills in Africa. In partnership with the Safaricom Foundation, a corporate foundation dedicated to making positive contributions to communities in Kenya in direct ways, the initiative is designed to give young people in Kenya the foundational digital skills needed to enter today's high-tech workplaces. CloudFactory is also expanding its own operations to Mombasa, furthering its commitment to bring innovation and meaningful work opportunities to Kenya.Technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) are becoming more prevalent and embedded in today's digital economy. Helping students build the skills necessary to work with, and alongside, these types of cutting-edge technologies, CloudFactory and Safaricom Foundation are offering a two-week training session for students, focused on ages 18-25, to learn foundational digital skills. These skills range from typing, spreadsheet expertise, and web research to enriched skills such as data processing and image annotation that underpin the fundamentals of AI and ML. The goal is to train over 2,000 young people in the region with work-ready digital skills by 2021.''As the workplace continues to evolve, becoming more digital and technology-driven in nature, it's critical for young men and women to develop and hone those foundational skills,'' said Sanda Ojiambo, Head of Corporate Responsibility, Safaricom Foundation. ''CloudFactory and Safaricom Foundation will help young people in Kenya build important digital aptitudes and experience, setting them up to be successful as they seek out jobs and begin to enter a competitive global job market.'' In addition to launching its new learning initiative in Kenya, CloudFactory is expanding its operations to Mombasa. As CloudFactory's presence in Kenya has continued to grow since opening its Nairobi office in 2013, the company has generated meaningful work for around 3,000 people in the region. Founded in Nepal in 2010, CloudFactory has generated meaningful work for over 12,000 people globally with wages totaling more than $8 million.''There's an ever-increasing demand for skilled workers in today's digital job market, and Kenya is brimming with talented people,'' said Mark Sears, founder and CEO, CloudFactory. ''By advancing our mission in the region, we are extending our investment in the people of Kenya - providing meaningful work opportunities that uniquely align with the needs of the tech-forward companies we work with around the world.'' Learn more about CloudFactory by visiting CloudFactory.com About CloudFactoryCloudFactory is a global leader in combining people and technology to provide a workforce in the cloud for machine learning and core business data processing. Our managed teams have experience with 150+ AI projects and can process data with high accuracy using virtually any tool. As an impact sourcing service provider (ISSP), CloudFactory creates economic and leadership opportunities for talented people in developing nations. Trusted by 130+ companies, we annotate data for 11 of the world's top autonomous vehicle companies and process millions of tasks a day for innovators including Microsoft, Drive.ai , Ibotta and nuTonomy. We're on four continents, with offices in the U.K., U.S., Nepal and Kenya.SOURCE: CloudFactory Global cool roof coating market research report presents upcoming growth opportunities and industry trends insights through 2018-2027. Fact.MR PR-Inside.com: 2019-05-09 14:48:18 Press Information Fact.MR 11140 Rockville Pike Suite 400 Basant Manager 353-1-6111-593 email https://www.factmr.com/ # 672 Words 11140 Rockville Pike Suite 400Manager353-1-6111-593 FactMR has introduced a new study to its active online portal that diligently foresees capable growth prospects in the global cool roof coating market. The contributions by leading players, especially across Asia Pacific and Europe is reasonable enough to indorse higher revenue shares in the target market during the forecast period. In order to gain in-depth knowledge about additional possibilities in the cool roof coatings market, readers can refer the research study titled Cool Roof Coating Market Forecast, Trend Analysis & Competition Tracking - Global Market Insights 2018 to 2027. Based on this assessment, it has been highlighted the cool roof coating market is projected to deliver an impressive CAGR of over 6% during the period between 2018 and 2028. Some of the chief reasons for this swelling market of cool roof coatings can be attributed to its effective remedial behavior to urbanization challenges, blazing temperatures across tropical and subtropical regions and elevating energy demand.This is a rigorous and scrutinized report that comprises of actionable and prized insights. Not only are the readers served with in-depth assessment on the cool roof coatings market but are also given access to surmise important dynamics such as growth drivers, trends, restraints and opportunities associated to the cool roof coating market. Furthermore, this study attentively discourse key segments, namely, roof type, material, application, technology and region. Each of these segments are examined in terms of crucial market factors such as revenue (US$ Mn), market share comparison and Y-o-Y growth.Request For Sample Report - https://www.factmr.com/connectus/sample?flag=S&rep_id=2364 Elastomeric Plastic Upholds Its Supremacy in the Cool Roof Coating MarketIt has been noticed that elastomeric plastic has habitually retained its leading position among roofing materials in the cool roof coating market. To be specific, over 6 in 10 MT of cool roof coatings look for these roofing materials. Interestingly, the global sales for elastomeric plastic surpassed 400,000 MT in 2018. In comparison to its counterparts, such as metals and tiles, supremacy of elastomeric plastic is expected to continue in the coming years.Relevance of Cool Roof Coatings in Urban PliabilityClimate change has become highly visible, and investments towards sustainable technologies have risen at the global level to improve resilience of cities. Therefore, the application of cool roof coating to supplement a building structures environmental performance together with solar panel installations continue to receive higher traction among major cities around the globe.Browse Full Report on Cool Roof Coating Market with In-depth TOC - https://www.factmr.com/report/2364/cool-roof-coating-market In addition, cool roof coating has gained chief importance as a key solution for reducing urban heat island effect, mend air quality and combat climate change. Some of the prime benefits of cool roof coating includes reduction in peak burden on electric grids and heightened community resilience to high temperatures.Competitive ScenarioPresently, the cool roof coating market is mainly characterized by the attendance of multinational companies that have robust distribution channels together with higher brand visibility. According to this research study, the major players from the cool roof coating market collectively acquire more than one-fourth share in the global sector.It is vital to mark that, regional players like and Nippon Paint Holdings Co. Ltd. and GAF Materials Corporation, have proven their presence across emerging markets like Asia-Pacific, since the region delivers significant covert opportunities for the concerned sector. China surfaces to the top to become the most lucrative country in terms of sales of cool roof coatings; global sales from this region were recorded at 220,000 MT in 2018.Request Methodology of this Report - https://www.factmr.com/connectus/sample?flag=RM&rep_id=2364 About FactMRFactMR 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 UsFactMR11140 Rockville PikeSuite 400Rockville, MD 20852United StatesEmail: sales@ factmr.com Web: https://www.factmr.com/ PR-Inside.com: 2019-05-09 00:50:03 Santiago, Chile, May 8, 2019- LATAM Airlines Group S.A. and its subsidiaries, ("LATAM Airlines Group" or "the Company") (NYSE: LTM / IPSA: LTM), the leading airline group in Latin America, today reported its preliminary monthly traffic statistics for April 2019 compared with the same period of 2018. System passenger traffic (measured in revenue passenger kilometers (RPK)) increased 8.0%, while capacity rose by 8.0%. As a result, the Company's load factor for the month fell 0.1 percentage points to 83.3%. The 30.1% increase in capacity in Spanish-speaking domestic markets (Domestic SSC) is mainly explained by the strike in Chile last year. Excluding Chile, Domestic SSC capacity rose 10.4%, in line with the rise of the first three months of the year. International passenger traffic accounted for approximately 58% of the month's total passenger traffic. This announcement is distributed by West Corporation on behalf of West Corporation clients. The issuer of this announcement warrants that they are solely responsible for the content, accuracy and originality of the information contained therein. Source: LATAM Airlines Group via Globenewswire The Legion Finance Trade Limited Group signed a loan agreement in the aggregate amount of up to 897 million Euro with Triskata International, a company incorporated in the Republic of Czech, a privately owned PV plant company in Czech. Legion Finance Trade Limited Has Granted A Loan to Triskata Internation for PV plant Installation PR-Inside.com: 2019-05-09 06:37:57 Press Information Legion Finance Trade Limited 20-22 Wenlock Road, London N1 7GU, United Kingdom Liljana Simonoska Public Relation Manager +18005019809 email http://www.legionfinancetrade.com # 343 Words 20-22 Wenlock Road, London N1 7GU, United KingdomPublic Relation Manager+18005019809 The Legion Finance Trade Limited Group signed a loan agreement in the aggregate amount of up to 897 million Euro with Triskata International, a company incorporated in the Republic of Czech, a privately owned PV plant company in Czech. The loan, provided in project financing, will finance the installation of 680MW of power plant in the city of Prague. The loan is structured against political insurance risk guarantee handled by the CSOB.In this project, Triskata International will build, own and operate the power plant for a service period of 20 years through United Energy, the country's largest Producer of electricity and heat in northern Bohemia. A developing Power station that generates electrical power using photovoltic cells, the power is meant to feed electricity into the public grid. The company has thus pressing needs for Photovoltaics a brand of technology that applies the use of solar cells by converting the energy from the sun directly into electricity.As demand for solar energy is increasing in Czech Republic and other parts of the world, there is prospect of expanding market for PV Plant. Czech firms are thus planning to enter this market. In addition to United Energy, which has participated in this project, Powersun the biggest operators of Photovoltic plants in the region of Hustopece and Kyjov, has also participated, serving as a technical consultant to Triskata International by strengthening ties with United Energy, UE hopes to participate in Photovoltic projects to be undertaken by Triskata International, as it is a leading user in the energy market.Edward Siciliano the CEO for Legion Finance Trade Limited Group said the LFTL is committed to providing effective support in financing project activities by drawing on its range of financial sources and schemes in response to their concrete needs.Barry Brogan the CFO and member of the board of directors for Legion Finance Trade Limited added in his comment that 2019 is a big year for the group's operation as investors are on the loophole to pull their resources to backup projects being structured under Legion Finance Trade Limited Group. PR-Inside.com: 2019-05-09 12:06:48 Press Information Published by ACN Newswire +65 6304 8926 e-mail https://www.acnnewswire.com/ # 814 Words ACN Newswire+65 6304 8926 NetDragon Websoft Holdings Limited ("NetDragon" or "the Company") (Hong Kong Stock Code: 777), a global leader in building internet communities, is excited to announce that it signed the Memorandum of Cooperation for "N-Power Junior Smart Classroom Cooperation" and the Framework Agreement for "Initiative of Digital Education in Africa-Nigeria (IDEA-Nigeria) Cooperation" with Nigeria at the Digital Maritime Silk Road Sub-forum of the 2nd Digital China Summit. Dr. Xiong Li, CEO of NetDragon, and Mr. Ife Adebayo, Special Assistant on Innovation and Entrepreneurship to the Nigerian Vice President, participated in the signing ceremony.According to the agreement, Nigeria plans to purchase 10,000 smart classrooms from NetDragon, and NetDragon will assist in Nigeria's construction of the "Three Platforms and One Centre" - national education resources public service platform, national teaching community network platform, national digital talent training platform and national future education experience centre, in order to help Nigeria accelerate the development of digital education and improve basic education, lifelong education and future education in African countries.As the most populous country in Africa, Nigeria's human capital is a significant advantage to its development, and education is an essential element to leverage this advantage. At present, Nigeria is facing problems such as shortage of educational resources and infrastructure, and lower-than-international-standard student enrolment rates. In this context, Nigerian Government established the "N-Power Project" to enhance the scientific knowledge and skills of children, adolescents and youth in the country.NetDragon will assist Nigeria in the development of the "N-Power Project". Nigerian Government plans to purchase 10,000 smart classrooms from NetDragon. The smart classrooms will be equipped with NetDragon's flagship educational products and platform resources, including Promethean interactive panel, 101 Education PPT, VR Mysticraft, Edmodo, JumpStart games and Coding Galaxy. This project is expected to benefit 500,000 K-12 students in the country.NetDragon's newly developed digital education product, the Pop-up Classroom, also attracted the attention of the Nigerian Government. Pop-up Classroom is a container-sized classroom which is easily transported, mobilized and assembled/disassembled. It can be ready for use in just a few hours. Therefore, it can easily fit in to different circumstances and conditions. Nigerian Government is considering deploying Pop-up Classroom in remote areas, in order to solve Nigeria's problems of classroom shortage and uneven distribution of educational resources, in a quick, efficient and cost-effective manner.In recent years, cooperation between China and Africa has entered a new historical phase. With the support of the "Belt and Road Initiative", NetDragon has launched the "Initiative of Digital Education in African (IDEA)", which gained full support from African countries like Nigeria and Ghana. Ghana Government also signed a memorandum of cooperation for digital education with NetDragon at the Digital Maritime Silk Road Sub-forum. In this memorandum of cooperation, NetDragon will provide technical support to the development of future education in Ghana. By focusing on the construction of "Three Platforms and One Centre" and smart classrooms, NetDragon can help further accelerate the digitalization, informatization and modernization of education in Africa.Dr. Xiong Li, CEO of NetDragon, commented that the cooperation between NetDragon and Nigeria will become a model for digital education construction in African countries, and its success is expected to be followed by other African countries such as Kenya and Ghana. In the future, NetDragon hopes to see more African countries joining the "IDEA" family to jointly promote the development of digital education in Africa. NetDragon also targets to echo United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals - "to ensure an inclusive and fair quality education and provide everyone with the opportunity of lifelong learning", in order to allow children in different areas worldwide to experience the learning experience and fun brought by advanced technology.About NetDragon Websoft Holdings LimitedNetDragon Websoft Holdings Limited (HKSE: 0777) is a global leader in building internet communities with a long track record of developing and scaling multiple internet and mobile platforms that impact hundreds of millions of users. These include China's number one online gaming portal, 17173.com, and China's most influential smartphone app store platform, 91 Wireless, which was sold to Baidu for US$1.9 billion in 2013 as the largest Internet M&A transaction in China.Established in 1999, NetDragon is one of the most reputable and well-known online game developers in China with a history of successful game titles including Eudemons Online, Heroes Evolved and Conquer Online. In recent years, NetDragon has also started to scale its online education business on the back of management's vision to create the largest global online learning community, and to bring the "classroom of the future" to every school around the world.For more information, please visit www.netdragon.com For investor enquiries, please contact:NetDragon Websoft Holdings LimitedMs. Maggie ZhouSenior Director of Investor RelationsTel.: +852 2850 7266 / +86 591 8754 3120Email: maggie@ nd.com.cn Website: www.nd.com.cn/ir Source: ACN Newswire Raytheon Delivers Kongsberg Naval Strike Missiles to US Marines The page you requested is only available to subscribers. 1. If you are a Premium Service subscriber, please log in here to access this story: Log-in : Password : 2. If you are not a subcriber, you can: -- buy access to this page: unlimited access for seven days costs 3.00 EUR + VAT (at 20%) if applicable. 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PR-Inside.com: 2019-05-09 16:32:02 May 9, 2019 Philips integrated solution will combine the unique KODEX-EPD dielectric imaging and navigation system, dielectric imaging sensors, clinical software, and services to support cryoablation procedures performed with the Medtronic Arctic Front Advance cryoablation technology Amsterdam, The Netherlands Royal Philips (NYSE: PHG, AEX: PHIA) today announced a collaboration with Medtronic to further advance treatment of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (PAF), a common heart rhythm disorder. Through the agreement, Medtronic will facilitate sales of products on behalf of Philips to provide an innovative, integrated image guidance solution for cryoablation procedures. Philips will bring to market the novel KODEX-EPD cardiac imaging and navigation system with cryoablation specific features to enable electrophysiologists to perform cryoablation procedures with reduced need for X-ray imaging. Atrial fibrillation (AF) affects more than 33 million people worldwide [1]. Cryoballoon ablation is used in a minimally invasive procedure to isolate the pulmonary veins, which are a source of erratic electrical signals that cause AF. The technology uses cold energy rather than heat (radio frequency (RF) ablation) to create scar tissue and interrupt these irregular electrical pathways in the heart. This integrated solution can guide physicians during the treatment of AF patients with ablation, as they can view detailed, CT-like 3D anatomy, reducing the need for X-ray imaging, said Marlou Janssen, Business Leader Philips EPD Solutions. Partnering with Medtronic extends the reach of our KODEX-EPD cardiac imaging and navigation system. Today, this technology is simplifying navigation, and in the future it has potential for a wide range of applications, including addressing the key unmet need of real-time therapy assessment one of the more significant limitations of the current standard of care. "When available, physicians will have the ability to use an innovative cardiac imaging and mapping system during cryoablation procedures, while also realizing the significant benefits of our best-in-class cryoablation therapy," said Rebecca Seidel, vice president and general manager of the Atrial Fibrillation Solutions division, which is part of the Cardiac and Vascular Group at Medtronic. AF is a growing epidemic and we are committed to providing solutions to electrophysiologists that help address the needs of their patients." Philips KODEX-EPD system uses dielectric imaging to create CT-like 3D, high-definition images of a patients cardiac structures in real time [2]. A completely new approach to imaging the heart, dielectric imaging offers many benefits in comparison to current approaches, for both cryo and RF ablation procedures. The technology provides real-time 3D imaging, reducing the need for X-ray imaging. It also has mapping capabilities without the need to reset a reference point if the patient moves. As a result, the KODEX-EPD system provides excellent visualization and simplifies navigation, enhancing procedure efficiency and patient care. In pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) cryoablation procedures, the system confirms the positioning of the Medtronic Achieve Mapping Catheter, supporting quick visualization of the pulmonary veins. Philips is also developing balloon visualization capabilities for the KODEX-EPD system. KODEX-EPD is CE marked and has received 510(k) clearance from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for mapping and navigation during arrhythmia ablation procedures. KODEX-EPD systems are in clinical use at limited sites worldwide. The integrated solution to support cryoablation procedures is intended to be available for sale in the U.S. and Europe in Q4 2019. [1] Chugh S, Havmoeller R, Narayanan K, et al. Worldwide epidemiology of atrial fibrillation: a global burden of disease 2010 study. Circulation. 2014; 129:837-847. [2] Maurer T, Kuck K-H et al. First clinical experience in high-resolution imaging of left atrial anatomy using a novel wide-band dielectric mapping system. Clin Res Cardiol 108, Suppl 1, April 2019. For further information, please contact: Mark Groves Philips Group Press Office Tel: +31 631 639 916 Email: mark.groves@philips.com Twitter: mark_groves Fabienne van der Feer Philips Image Guided Therapy Tel: +31 622 698 001 Email: fabienne.van.der.feer@philips.com Twitter: FC_Feer About Royal Philips Royal Philips (NYSE: PHG, AEX: PHIA) is a leading health technology company focused on improving people's health and enabling better outcomes across the health continuum from healthy living and prevention, to diagnosis, treatment and home care. Philips leverages advanced technology and deep clinical and consumer insights to deliver integrated solutions. Headquartered in the Netherlands, the company is a leader in diagnostic imaging, image-guided therapy, patient monitoring and health informatics, as well as in consumer health and home care. Philips generated 2018 sales of EUR 18.1 billion and employs approximately 77,000 employees with sales and services in more than 100 countries. News about Philips can be found at www.philips.com/newscenter . Attachments PR-Inside.com: 2019-05-09 08:01:01 Zwolle, 09th May 2019 RoodMicrotec N.V., a leading independent company for semiconductors supply and quality services, today announces its intention to enter into a long-term supply chain partnership with CoreHW, a Finnish fabless semiconductor company offering state-of-the-art full custom IC turnkey solutions, IP and design services as well as own IC products. Mr. Tomi-Pekka Takalo, CEO of CoreHW, and Mr. Martin Sallenhag, CEO of RoodMicrotec, have signed a Letter of Intent expressing their commitment to enter into a long-term partnership. CoreHW will use the capabilities and services of RoodMicrotec for back-end manufacturing of full custom RF, analog and mixed-signal IC as well as catalog IC products, designed and marketed by CoreHW. RoodMicrotec, on the other hand, will develop the test solutions, including test software and interface hardware, execute product qualification as per desired industry standard and run mass production, including wafer sort, package assembly, final test and end-of-line services. In addition, RoodMicrotec will include CoreHW as partner in their design partner network for ASIC turnkey business, specifically for advanced wireless applications. This partnership is based on core strengths of the two companies and both sides will take full advantage of it. RoodMicrotec and its network of manufacturing partners are providing a strong basis for a competitive supply of CoreHWs advanced products. Furthermore, the company is adding another high profile customer to its broad list of supply chain partners. Martin Sallenhag says: We are very pleased with this step forward in developing a lasting and fruitful partnership between our companies. From here onward, we will continue to negotiate the detailed terms and conditions to reach a formal agreement during 2019. Tomi-Pekka Takalo says: Engaging with the right partner for back-end manufacturing and supply chain services is of strategic importance to us. We are pleased to have identified RoodMicrotec as partner for the future growth of our business. We look forward to a successful and long-lasting collaboration between our companies. About CoreHW CoreHW is a fabless Semiconductor Company, developing state-of-the-art integrated circuits for customers worldwide. CoreHW focuses on the development of advanced integrated circuits for wireless data transmission, sensor interfaces and IoT applications. CoreHW is headquartered in Tampere, Finland with design centers in Oulu, Turku and Helsinki, Finland. Further information on CoreHW at http://www.corehw.com About RoodMicrotec RoodMicrotec is a leading independent company for semiconductor supply and quality services. With 50 years of experience in the semiconductor and electronics industry, RoodMicrotec is well-established as a highly valued partner for many companies worldwide. The company provides full-turnkey ASIC services for complex microchips that are customized to handle specific applications for individual customers. In cooperation with strong partners, RoodMicrotec manages the entire development and production flow of ASICs in the target volume, ranging from low quantities up to multiple millions per year. The turnkey solution includes project management, wafer test, assembly, final test, qualification, failure analysis and logistics. All services comply with the industrial and quality requirements of the high reliability, aerospace, automotive, healthcare and industrial sectors. RoodMicrotecs headquarter is located in Zwolle, Netherlands, with operational units in Nordlingen and Stuttgart, Germany. For more information visit https://www.roodmicrotec.com Further information Martin Sallenhag - CEO, Reinhard Pusch - COO, Arvid Ladega - CFO Telephone: +31 38 4215216 Email: investor-relations@roodmicrotec.com Web: www.roodmicrotec.com This press release is published in English, Dutch and German. In case of conflict between these versions the English version shall prevail. This communication contains information that qualifies as inside information within the meaning of Article 7(1) of the EU Market Abuse Regulation. The companys managing director and CEO Martin Sallenhag, is responsible for arranging for the release of this document on behalf of RoodMicrotec. Attachment mrrse PR-Inside.com: 2019-05-09 15:10:31 Press Information MRRSE State Tower 90, State Street Suite 700 Albany, NY - 12207 Alok manager +1-518-730-0559 email https://www.mrrse.com/ # 646 Words State Tower90, State StreetSuite 700Albany, NY - 12207manager+1-518-730-0559 An insightful study, titled Saudi Arabia Pharmaceutical Market has been freshly broadcasted to the vast research repository of Market Research Reports Search Engine (MRRSE). The research study provides detailed comprehensions and forecasts future growth of the global market with an in-depth study of the factors impacting revenue growth throughout the mentioned forecast period. Further, a deep analysis on the major players from diverse regions is also present in the report.Get Report Sample Copy @ https://www.mrrse.com/sample/2082 At the backdrop of National Transformation Program (NTP) Vision, 2030, Saudi Arabia is set to incur magnificent reformations in its pharmaceutical space, eyeing all round excellence in drug development and delivery to ensure holistic well-being. These market highlights are in line with Market Research Reports Search Engines (MRRSE) recent report offering titled, Pharmaceutical Market: Saudi Arabia Industry Analysis and Opportunity Assessment, 2016-2026 pinned in its fast expanding online data archive.Under the protocol of NTP, eminent drug manufacturers in Saudi Arabia will work in unison with National Committee for Pharmaceutical Industries and Ministry of Health to achieve diverse objectives, thereby favoring ample growth towards pharmaceutical market in Saudi Arabia. Under defined reformations of NTP, local drug companies are expected to attain over 40 % shares in the domestic markets in Saudi Arabia, thereby offering stiff competition for international brands functional in Saudi Arabia.Besides wide prevalence of chronic ailments, favorable alterations in health insurance in addition to improved healthcare infrastructure are expected to lend viable boost towards optimistic outlook of pharmaceutical market in Saudi Arabia. Besides aforementioned growth triggers, upward rise of pharmaceutical market of Saudi Arabia may also be attributed to a steadily growing population, improved mindfulness towards patented drugs, and improved spending capabilities amongst the populace. Significant rise in health insurance institutions, and strong affinity towards branded drugs and other pharmaceutical products are expected to bode well with lucrative outlook in pharmaceutical space of Saudi Arabia in the coming years. Factors as such also remain crucial in supporting cent percent FDI in pharmaceuticals. Additionally, improved distribution matrix on the back of western retail outlets supplement growth.Browse Complete Research Report with List of Tables and Key Figures @ https://www.mrrse.com/saudi-arabia-pharmaceutical-market Branded Drugs Estimated To Remain Most Sought After in the Coming YearsCoherent research derivatives on pharmaceutical market in Saudi Arabia documented in the report is aimed at offering report readers with workable insights on market drivers, trends, and restraints that influence growth in pharmaceutical market in Saudi Arabia. The report also examines dynamic segments which have a pronounced bearing on market growth. In terms of dynamic segmentation pharmaceutical market in Saudi Arabia is classified into product type, disease type, and distribution channel. By product type pharmaceutical market in Saudi Arabia is classified into prescription products, branded and generic drugs, and OTC products. In terms of disease type the market is diversified into cardiovascular, diabetes, cancer, obesity, infectious diseases, besides others. Pharmaceutical landscape in Saudi Arabia is further demarcated into distinct distribution channels such as hospital and retail pharmacies. Additionally, the trailing sections of the report also elaborate on competition spectrum, highlighting key participants, complete with their SWOT analysis and winning business strategies that fetch desired revenue maximization in pharmaceutical market in Saudi Arabia.Request for Sample Report @ https://www.mrrse.com/sample/2082 About Market Research Reports Search Engine (MRRSE)Market Research Reports Search Engine (MRRSE) is an industry-leading database of Marke Research Reports. MRRSE is driven by a stellar team of research experts and advisors trained to offer objective advice. Our sophisticated search algorithm returns results based on the report title, geographical region, publisher, or other keywords.MRRSE partners exclusively with leading global publishers to provide clients single-point access to top-of-the-line market research. MRRSEs repository is updated every day to keep its clients ahead of the next new trend in market research, be it competitive intelligence, product or service trends or strategic consulting. PR-Inside.com: 2019-05-09 22:17:39 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 964 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 IRVINE, CA / ACCESSWIRE / May 9, 2019 / Terra Tech Corp. (OTCQX: TRTC) ("Terra Tech" or the "Company"), a vertically integrated cannabis-focused agriculture company, today announced its financial results for the period ended March 31, 2019.Derek Peterson, Chief Executive Officer of Terra Tech, commented, "In the first quarter of 2019 we made meaningful headway both implementing our restructuring strategy and further entrenching ourselves in the California market. All material construction at the Hegenberger cultivation facility in Oakland is complete, and we anticipate it being fully operational upon receipt of licensing approval from the State. This will enable us to ramp production of our IVXX premium wholesale cannabis brand in California." "We also opened our newest Blum dispensary in San Leandro, California, a prominent suburb city of San Francisco and Oakland. In the short time since opening, the dispensary has generated consistent medical foot traffic and we expect sales at this location to continue to grow throughout the year, driven by the start of sales to adult users as of May 2019, and increased brand recognition in the area. Moreover, we are working on several growth initiatives that are expected to generate new sources of revenue for the Company, including opening a vertically integrated cannabis complex to host large-scale, cannabis themed events at our East Dyer Road location later this year," continued Mr. Peterson."Terra Tech is engaged in a fundamental restructuring to improve profitability and build value for our shareholders. Following a comprehensive review of the Company's assets and their respective performance, we are pursuing a strategy to redeploy certain assets in strategic locations where we believe they have the potential to produce greater returns. To advance this strategy, we have entered into an asset purchase agreement with Picksy LLC, a Nevada limited liability company to sell our Desert Inn Road retail dispensary for $10 million. This strategy is expected to build a stronger, more efficient business based around premium quality, recognizable brands. We are pleased with our progress working toward these strategic objectives," concluded Mr. Peterson.Financial UpdateFor the period ending March 31, 2019, the Company generated revenues of approximately $7.4 million, compared to approximately $8.6 million for the first quarter ending March 31, 2018, a decrease of approximately $1.3 million. The decrease was primarily due to the significant level of taxes that the State of California placed on cannabis sales which depressed the overall legal cannabis market.Gross margin for the period ending March 31, 2019 was approximately 54.4%, compared to approximately 36.2% for the first quarter ending March 31, 2018. The increase in Gross Margin was primarily due to operational improvements across both the cannabis segment and herbs and produce segment.Selling, general and administrative expenses for the period ending March 31, 2019 were approximately $11.5 million, compared to approximately $10.3 million for the first quarter ending March 31, 2018.The Company reported a Gain on Interest in Joint Venture of $5.6 million for the period ending March 31, 2019, as a result of its decision to restate its agreements with NuLeaf Sparks Cultivation, LLC and NuLeaf Reno Production, LLC.The net loss attributable to Terra Tech for the period ending March 31, 2019 was approximately $(5.1 million) or $(0.05) per share compared to a loss of approximately $(12.2 million) or $(0.19) per share for the first quarter endin March 31, 2018.The Company had $5.81 million in cash as of March 31, 2019, compared with $7.19 million as of December 31, 2018.Stockholders' equity for the period ending March 31, 2019 amounted to approximately $115.45 million, an increase of approximately $20.6 million compared to approximately $94.9 million as of December 31, 2018.The Company had no short-term debt as of March 31, 2019. Long term liabilities were $20.8 million as of March 31, 2019, compared with $18.3 million as of December 31, 2018.Business UpdateCalifornia:Oakland: The Company's Blum Oakland dispensary continued to focus on the adult use market, however sales were impacted by higher California state excise tax rates. To prepare for a ramp in demand as a result of the legalization of adult-use cannabis, Terra Tech continued constructing a 13,000 square foot cultivation facility in Hegenberger, Oakland which has the capacity to produce up to one metric ton, or 2,000 pounds, of cannabis per year. The Company has completed all material construction at this facility and it is expected to be fully operational upon receipt of State licensing.San Leandro: Terra Tech's San Leandro Blum dispensary opened in January 2019, making history as the first medical dispensary to open its doors in San Leandro. Subsequent to the end of the first quarter, in May 2019, Blum San Leandro commenced sales to the adult use market after receiving City and State approval.Santa Ana:The Company advanced its plans to open a vertically integrated cannabis complex to host large-scale, cannabis themed events at its East Dyer Road location.Nevada:Las Vegas: Entered into an asset purchase agreement with Picksy LLC, a Nevada limited liability company to sell its Blum Desert Inn dispensary for $10 million. Selling this Nevada asset is aligned with the Company's strategy to leverage its balance sheet to fuel growth by strategically redeploying assets to maximize its return on investment.In February 2019, the Company amended and restated its agreements with NuLeaf. As the primary beneficiary of NuLeaf Sparks Cultivation, LLC and NuLeaf Reno Production, LLC, the Company consolidates the accounts and operations of these entities beginning March 1, 2019. The Company remeasured its equity method investment in NuLeaf to estimated fair value, which resulted in a non-cash gain of $5.60 million that was recorded in operating income; recognized redeemable noncontrolling interest for NuLeaf, Inc.'s interest in NuLeaf at an estimated fair value of $13.20 million; and recognized $12.08 million of net assets, including cash acquired, at fair value. As part of the purchase price allocation, the Company recorded $0.80 million of goodwill, primarily related to the value of the existing workforce, and $8.00 million of intangible assets, primarily related to licenses with a weighted-average life of 10 years. The measurement period is expected to be closed in the second qua PR-Inside.com: 2019-05-09 09:10:02 SATO Corporation, Press release, 9th May 2019 at 10:00 am SATO and MaaS Global launch collaboration pilot for housing and mobility The rental housing provider SATO anticipates that urban housing will generate more and more needs for easy-to-access services that can even be included in the rent. One example of future housing services is mobility, and it is on this theme that SATO and MaaS Global, the developer of the Whim mobility app, announced their housing and mobility pilot for around 1,400 SATO residents in the Helsinki Metropolitan Area this week. One of Finlands biggest rental housing providers, SATO believes that urbanisation will boost the need for housing-related services. The fast pace of the urban environment and the diversification of the use of various services give rise to the need to create effortless sets of services for consumers. SATO President and CEO Saku Sipola envisions that a variety of services could even be included in the home rent in the future. - Its a natural development to package up rental housing with various services used frequently by urban residents, such as mobility and daily shopping. This will save a lot of their time and effort, Sipola says. - The collaboration pilot of MaaS Global and SATO is a good example of synergy between services. Mobility between the home and regular everyday destinations is a key part of life, and this may give rise to something new and interesting for urban housing on the whole. According to MaaS Global CEO Sampo Hietanen, the purpose of the pilot is to collaborate in the exploration and creation of mobility services for nodes of housing to create "mobility clusters" in places where housing and mobility needs coexist. In practice, this can mean things such as access to a rental car just around the corner from your home via the Whim mobility service. - Housing and mobility are peoples basic needs. Its both natural and revolutionary for us to be the first in the world to package up these services. Collaboration with SATO and residents enables the creation of a new and even more efficient set of services and make residents lives smoother. Were excited about this opportunity and anticipate the pilot will be expanded in the future, Hietanen says. The pilot is open for participation by residents of 28 SATO buildings in Kalasatama and Jatkasaari, Helsinki, Niittymaa, Espoo, and Tikkurila, Hakunila, Maarinkunnas, Koivuhaka and Viertola, Vantaa. The first phase of the pilot takes six months, during which the participants will get a discount on the Whim application subscription for three subscription periods. The pilot will include a joint workshop to discuss residents' experiences of using the service. Feedback and requests will also be collected through online questionnaires throughout the pilot period. - MaaS Global and we will evaluate the pilot to consider how to develop our collaboration. I believe that in the coming months our residents and we will learn a lot not only about mobility service needs but also about the need for other services to be packaged up with housing, Sipola sums up. For more information please contact: Saku Sipola, President and CEO, SATO Corporation saku.sipola@sato.fi +358 40 551 5953 Miia Eloranta, Director of Marketing and Communications, SATO Corporation miia.eloranta@sato.fi +358 201 34 4200 or +358 40 164 4221 For interview requests, MaaS Global Ltd Veera Aalto veera.aalto@maas.global +358 40 742 7379 SATO is one of Finland's leading rental housing providers. SATO aims to offer a comprehensive choice of rental housing and an excellent customer experience. At year-end 2018 SATO owned around 25,900 apartments in Finland's largest growth centres and in St. Petersburg. We promote sustainable development and initiative through our operations and work in open interaction with our stakeholders to generate added value. We operate profitably and with a long-term view. We increase the value of our housing stock through investments, divestments and repairs. The SATO Group's net sales in 2018 were EUR 290 million, operating profit EUR 273 million and profit before taxes EUR 231 million. The value of SATO's investment properties was roughly EUR 3.9 billion. www.sato.fi About MaaS Global & Whim MaaS Global is the worlds first true Mobility-as-a-Service (MaaS) operator with its award-winning Whim app, which provides users all city transport services in one app. With over four million trips made since its launch in November 2017, Whim is the first all-inclusive MaaS solution commercially available on the market. Whim allows users to journey where and when they want with public transport, taxis, cars, and many other options, all under a single monthly subscription. Whim has revolutionized users travel habits, in favor of circular modes. MaaS Global was founded in 2015 and is headquartered in Helsinki, Finland. The company is funded by Toyota Financial Services, Karsan Otomotiv, Transdev, Aioi Nissay Dowa, Denso and Veho and the total amount of investments is 24.2 million euros. https://maas.global/ https://whimapp.com PR-Inside.com: 2019-05-09 08:03:02 WISeKey Appoints Geoffrey Lipman to its Advisory Committee Geneva - May 9, 2019 WISeKey International Holding Ltd (WISeKey ) (SIX: WIHN), a leading global cybersecurity, Blockchain and IoT company, today announced the nomination of Geoffrey Lipman to its Advisory Committee. Members of WISeKeys Advisory Committee originate from a wide variety of sectors that are of critical importance to WISeKeys growth strategy, including Cybersecurity, IoT, Blockchain, and information technology. Mr. Lipman brings more than 40-years of green travel experience to WISeKey. He currently serves on the board of Green Growth & Travelism Institute (GGTI), a Brussels-based not-for-profit organization and is the co-founder of SUN x Strong Universal Network , a global initiative aiming to build Climate Resilience in line with the targets of the Paris Agreement through Climate Friendly Travel. He also serves as director of greenearth.travel, a global research and commercial network created to advance Green Growth & Travelism. Previously Mr. Lipman served as Assistant Secretary General of United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), where he spearheaded the development of advanced support systems including the ST-EP Program which promotes the development of ecotourism to combat poverty (currently this program supports over 100 projects in 34 developing countries). During this time, Mr. Lipman also led efforts to launch the Davos Climate Summit and the G20 Summit recognition program. Before that, he was the first President of The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), to pioneer new ways of measuring the economic impact of the sector and Sustainability Certification programs for the travel industry. He began his career at the International Air Transport Association (IATA), where he spent 20 years, ultimately responsible for strategy and government relations. Mr. Lipman has co-authored two books and numerous journal articles on Green Growth & Travelism. He is a visiting Professor at Victoria University in Melbourne, Australia and Hasselt University in Belgium. Carlos Moreira, WISeKeys Founder and CEO noted, I am excited to welcome Geoffrey to our Advisory Committee. I believe that his unique expertise will be a valuable asset to WISeKey as we continue our efforts to deploy our Digital Identification Blockchain strategy worldwide. As part of this strategy, WISeKeys recently partnered with SUNx - Strong Universal Network to jointly develop a special purpose Blockchain Center of Excellence in Brussels focusing on the development of standards and technologies to accelerate Climate Friendly Travel. Mr. Lipman said, "I am delighted to join the Advisory Committee of WISeKey and closely work with Carlos and his team in bringing their leading edge, cybersecurity, identity and blockchain solutions to the dynamic Travel and Tourism sector - particularly as it responds to the existential climate crisis." About WISeKey WISeKey (SIX Swiss Exchange: WIHN) is a leading global cybersecurity company currently deploying large scale digital identity ecosystems for people and objects using Blockchain, AI and IoT respecting the Human as the Fulcrum of the Internet. WISeKey Microprocessors Secures the pervasive computing shaping todays Internet of Everything. WISeKey IoT has an install base of over 1.5 billion microchips in virtually all IoT sectors (connected cars, smart cities, drones, agricultural sensors, anti-counterfeiting, smart lighting, servers, computers, mobile phones, crypto tokens etc.). WISeKey is uniquely positioned to be at the edge of IoT as our semiconductors produce a huge amount of Big Data that, when analyzed with Artificial Intelligence (AI), can help industrial applications to predict the failure of their equipment before it happens. Our technology is Trusted by the OISTE/WISeKeys Swiss based cryptographic Root of Trust (RoT) provides secure authentication and identification, in both physical and virtual environments, for the Internet of Things, Blockchain and Artificial Intelligence. The WISeKey RoT serves as a common trust anchor to ensure the integrity of online transactions among objects and between objects and people. For more information, visit www.wisekey.com. Press and investor contacts WISeKey Company Contact: Carlos Moreira Chairman & CEO Tel: +41 22 594 3000 info@wisekey.com WISeKey Investor Relations (US) Contact: Lena Cati The Equity Group Inc. Tel: +1 212 836-9611 lcati@equityny.com Disclaimer: This communication expressly or implicitly contains certain forward-looking statements concerning WISeKey International Holding Ltd and its business. Such statements involve certain known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which could cause the actual results, financial condition, performance or achievements of WISeKey International Holding Ltd to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. WISeKey International Holding Ltd is providing this communication as of this date and does not undertake to update any forward-looking statements contained herein as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. This press release does not constitute an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy, any securities, and it does not constitute an offering prospectus within the meaning of article 652a or article 1156 of the Swiss Code of Obligations or a listing prospectus within the meaning of the listing rules of the SIX Swiss Exchange. Investors must rely on their own evaluation of WISeKey and its securities, including the merits and risks involved. Nothing contained herein is or shall be relied on as, a promise or representation as to the future performance of WISeKey. The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has kicked off the second phase of its subscriber identity module (SIM) registration verification and compliance audit. The Commission said, in a statement in Abuja on Thursday. that the exercise is part of its effort to enhance national security, ensure consumer protection, and zero tolerance for registration-related infractions. The Commission said the exercise would provide further assurance on the integrity of the SIM registration database and processes across all mobile network operator (MNO) platforms. Specifically, it said the audit would monitor operators strict adherence to the technical and other specifications for subscribers. The NCCs Telephone Subscribers Registration Regulations of 2011 and the Technical Standards and Specifications issued by the Commission in 2011 spell out the required specifications. Regardless, the Commission said the audit would not affect the ongoing backend verification and scrubbing of SIM registration data already submitted by MTN, Glo, Airtel, 9Mobile and Mtel. The Executive Vice Chairman of NCC, Umar Danbatta, said the NCC is very sensitive to the subscriber registration database as a veritable tool by security and law enforcement agencies. The SIM registration database is used in detecting and apprehending those involved in crimes like kidnapping, financial crimes, armed robberies, banditry, cattle rustling and other crimes leveraged on easy access to the national telecoms network. We are determined to continue to ensure all SIM cards are traceable to their real owners with the least effort, the NCC said. According to the EVC, the verification exercise is a continuation of the NCCs regulatory interventions to establish a clean and credible SIM registration database in the country. In August 2015, the mobile network operators were given a deadline to disconnect SIMs found not to be fully compliant with registration requirements. Operators that failed to comply were issued various sanctions, including the imposition of huge fines. Also, a SIM Registration Task Force was set up in 2017 to further harmonise registration practices across all networks. The work of the task force culminated in the recent establishment of a joint Industry Working Group comprising senior representatives of the NCC, the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) and MNOs. That Working Group was mandated to harmonise the subscriber registration process with the National Identity Card Registration Project. Currently, verification and scrubbing of SIM Registration data is ongoing to ensure the integrity of data submitted to the Commission by the MNOs, before cleaned-up data are fed into the central database warehoused by NIMC. The audit is a natural next step to ensure not only are the data already submitted fully compliant but that operators maintained the highest standards of registration practices across all touch-points. This will ensure subscriber data the operators collect continue to serve the national security and other interests for which subscriber registration was mandated, Mr Danbatta said. Our objectives are to carry our quality assurance on the integrity of all aspects of the subscriber registration process and to demonstrate zero tolerance for any deviation from laid-down processes by any industry player, no matter how seemingly minor. The EVC allayed fears by consumers about the disruption of service to law-abiding consumers who have genuinely registered their SIMs. He said the NCC designed the exercise in a way to gauge compliance at measured intervals using very professional tools and standards. Determined to pursue the national interest objectives of delivering a credible database of telecoms subscribers in Nigeria, the Commission said it was working with NIMC and other stakeholders to tighten all loose ends. We are determined to deliver one single, credible national citizens identity database which is sorely required to fast-track the attainment of the Federal Governments national security and reform agenda, he said. Advertisements Hours after a federal court in Lagos dismissed the Nigerian governments multi-million dollar debt recovery suits against Agip Oil and Brasoil, the government has filed a notice of appeal against the judgment. Mojisola Olatoregun, a judge of the Lagos Division of the Federal High Court on Wednesday dismissed the Nigerian governments suit against the oil companies citing insufficient evidence from the plaintiff. The government had sued Agip Oil, owned by Italian oil giant, Eni, in 2016 for allegedly under-declaring the volume of crude oil it shipped out of the country between January 2011 and December 2014. The government is seeking $55 million as the shortfall in the amount of excess crude oil lifted out of Nigeria, onboard the vessel MT Cosmos. A similar suit was filed against Brasoil Services Company Nigeria Ltd, owned by the Brazilian oil company, Petrobras. In a notice of the appeal to the Court of Appeal in Lagos seen by PREMIUM TIMES and dated May 8, the Nigerian government urged the appellate court to set aside the decision of the lower court dismissing its claims against the oil companies. Case against Agip The government appealed the federal high courts decision in favour of Agip Oil on two grounds. In her judgment on Wednesday, Mrs Olatoregun held that although it was possible that MT Cosmos lifted additional 500,000 barrels of crude oil, the plaintiff did not provide evidence to prove its case. The appellant argued against the decision, saying that Agip Oil failed to render a proper account of its crude shipment resulting in huge financial losses to the government. The court below failed to take into consideration the fact that the defendant had intentionally neglected to properly account for all crude oil leaving the country which as a result caused financial loss as there was an under-declaration of the value of crude oil lifted and exported which led to significant decline in crude oil revenue generated by the plaintiff. The government further argued that the lower court failed to take into cognisance the evidence of Agip Oils sole witness relating to discrepancies in crude shipment reviewed in the Pre-Shipment Inspection Report. According to the appellant, the lower court ignored the fact that under Nigerian laws, Agip Oil is required to make full declaration of its crude shipments; the crude oil shipments by the company to Philadelphia, USA, and Amsterdam, the Netherlands, show a cumulative non-declaration of 500,000 barrels of crude oil valued at $55 million. The appellant also stated that the exhibits tendered by the company during the court hearing showed it also failed to declare the crude oil it shipped in its bill of lading. Case against Brasoil There are three grounds of appeal by the Nigerian government against the judgment in favour of Brasoil. While dismissing the suit against the oil company, the judge held that the vessel, Overseas Rebecca, did not lift the 499,000 barrels of crude oil out of the country as claimed by the Nigerian government and, therefore, has no responsibility to declare it. The appellant argued that the lower court erroneously relied on exhibits tendered before it to hold that another vessel, MT Nikator, lightered some of its crude oil into Overseas Rebecca. This, it said, was absurd because the Port of Houston, where the ship berthed, was large enough to accommodate the laden MT Nikator. Lightering is the process of transferring cargo between vessels of different sizes, usually between a barge and a bulker or oil tanker. Lightering is undertaken to reduce a vessels draft in order to enter port facilities which cannot accept very large ocean-going vessels. The court below failed to take into cognisance that PW1 (the witness) evidence shows that the MT Nikator has a draught that can be accommodated at the Port of Houston and discharged of its cargo without lightering. The appellant also argued that the lower court ignored its witness who maintained that any shipment not contained in the PIR creates a discrepancy and the records in the U. S. showed that Overseas Rebecca discharged shipment from Nigeria which was not declared in the PIR. It further argued that the court did not take into cognisance the fact that the oil companys crude oil shipments using Overseas Rebecca to the Port of Houston, Texas, show a cumulative non-declaration of 499,000 barrels of crude oil valued at $54.89 million. According to the Nigerian government, the judge ignored the fact that seven volumes of the comprehensive PIR of crude oil from Nigeria between 2011 and 2014, which contains the master list of all shipments, unequivocally established that the 499,000 barrels of Akpo crude were not declared to the appellant. The government maintained that it provided evidence through an analysis of crude oil imports into the U.S. obtained from the United States Border Customs that there was, indeed, a shipment to Texas using Overseas Rebecca. Nigerians seek medical attention overseas because the countrys health sector is unreliable, Yahaya Abubakar, the traditional ruler of Nupe kingdom has said. The Etsu Nupe said this on Wednesday while receiving senior executives of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies, (NIPSS) study tour team at his royal palace in Bida, Niger State. Shortage of human resources, poor infrastructure and inadequate funding are some of the challenges the monarch said are bedevilling the countrys health sector. Nigerians travel abroad for advanced medical services. Why are our own not reliable? Why is it inadequate? If we can answer these questions we can make progress. Thousands of Nigerians travel abroad each year to seek medical treatment as the nations health care system remains poorly funded and equipped. President Muhammadu Buhari has also been flayed several times for seeking medical attention abroad. He spent almost four months in the UK two years ago, in one of such trips. Nigerias loss Last year, a former health minister, Onyebuchi Chukwu, said Nigeria loses N175 billion annually to medical tourism. But last month, Minister of Health, Isaac Adewole, said the government is working tirelessly to reduce medical tourism and ensure Nigerians get the best health services in the country. Mr Abubakar, who is also chairman, Niger State Council of Traditional Rulers, acknowledged the roles traditional institutions play in providing support and an enabling environment for the Primary Health Care (PHC) system to thrive. Etsu Nupe laments medical tourism among Nigerians Etsu Nupe laments medical tourism among Nigerians Etsu Nupe laments medical tourism among Nigerians The success of immunisation and child spacing in Nigeria today is a result of involving traditional institutions. For the communities to accept the vaccines, the traditional authorities had to key into the programme and help create awareness and make people accept them. The emir also said his emirate is involved in establishing and strengthening PHCs to cater for the teeming population of the community. Nupe Kingdom Now known as the Bida Emirate, the Nupe Kingdom was established in the middle of the 15th century in a basin between the Niger and Kaduna rivers, in what is now central Nigeria. Etsu Nupe laments medical tourism among Nigerians Etsu Nupe is the title given to the leader of the Nupe people. They are known for their brass works. After receiving advice and recommendations from the Etsu Nupe on Wednesday, the leader of the NIPSS delegation, Nasirdeen Usman, presented an award to the traditional ruler. The NIPPS delegation has been touring the state since Monday to understudy its health sector, especially the primary health system. The visit is coordinated by NIPPS, in collaboration with the Development Research and Project Centre (DRPC). Following the conviction of the embattled Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Walter Onnoghen, by the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT) on April 18, PREMIUM TIMES reviews the sequence of events that led to his conviction. November 10, 2016 President Muhammadu Buhari appointed Mr Onnoghen as acting CJN. February 8, 2017 Acting President Yemi Osinbajo nominated him as the substantive CJN. March 1, 2017 Mr Onnoghen was confirmed by the Senate. March 7, 2017 He was sworn in as substantive CJN by Mr Osinbajo. 2019 Drama January 10 The Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB) received a petition against Mr Onnoghen from one Dennis Aghanya of the Anti-corruption and Research-based Data Initiative (ARDI). January 11 Mr Onnoghen made a statement to the CCB in his office where he admitted to having forgotten to list some assets. Timeline: Onnoghens two years stint as Nigerias Chief Justice. CREDIT: George Kaduna] January 11 Charge of false and non-assets declaration filed against him. January 14 He failed to appear for his arraignment. His lawyer said he was not personally served. January 14 A National Industrial Court in Abuja restrained CCT from going ahead with the trial. Two Federal High Courts also made similar orders. January 16 Mr Onnoghen was personally served with a court summon. January 22 Absent again in the tribunal. His lawyers, comprising 40 Senior Advocates of Nigeria and 50 other lawyers led by Wole Olanipekun, asked for an indefinite adjournment. Tribunal dismissed the application, said all high courts and industrial court orders not binding on tribunal. January 23 CCT granted ex-parte order granting leave for Mr Onnoghens suspension. January 25 Mr Buhari suspends the embattled CJN, appoints Tanko Mohammed as the acting CJN. January 28 CCT adjourns trial indefinitely. February 4 CCT reconvenes following Court of Appeal dismissal of Mr Onnoghens stay of proceedings motion. February 13 CCT orders Mr Onnoghens arrest following an application by the federal government. Timeline: Onnoghens two years stint as Nigerias Chief Justice. CREDIT: George Kaduna] February 15 Mr Onnoghen appeared in court, pleaded not guilty to the charges against him. He was granted bail based on own recognizance March 12 Again, Mr Onnoghen was absent at the CCT due to high blood pressure, tooth-ache. March 18 The federal government called its first witness, a former Director of Federal Political Department of the CCB, Awwal Yakassai. March 29 CCT rejected Mr Onnoghens no-case submission and then ordered him to open defence. April 1 Mr Onnoghen called his driver as his sole witness. Timeline: Onnoghens two years stint as Nigerias Chief Justice. CREDIT: George Kaduna] April 3 NJC sent a report on Mr Onnoghen to Mr Buhari. Advertisements April 5 Mr Onnoghen sends a letter of retirement as CJN to President Buhari. April, 15 Adoption of final written addresses at CCT. April, 18 The CCT convicted Mr Onnoghen of the charges. The Governor of Borno State, Kashim Shettima, on Tuesday, came hard on the Comptroller General and officials of the Nigeria Prisons Service (NPS) for blocking efforts to ensure justice for victims of rape and sexual abuses in Borno prisons. The governor had in March set up a 10-member committee headed by the Borno Attorney General and Commissioner of Justice, Kaka-Shehu Lawan, to investigate alleged cases of rape, sodomy and mass abortion in Maiduguri prisons as recently exposed by Amnesty International. According to Amnesty International, its investigation exposed sexual violence against children and women, by security agents and inmates at the Maiduguri Maximum Security Prison and Giwa Barracks. Responding to the report, Governor Shettima gave the committee one week to submit its findings. Brick wall? Three weeks after, the committee said it could not accomplish its task because the prison service was not open for them to carry out their assignment. Frustrated by the lack of cooperation from the NPS officials, the committee said it had to give up its assignment and report back to the governor. Briefing the governor at the council chambers of the Government House, Maiduguri, the attorney general lamented that they were practically denied access and audience by the state Comptroller of Prisons. His words: Precisely on the 21, March 2019, following a report by Sahara Reporters, Your Excellency immediately inaugurated this committee to investigate the alleged offenses as published in the online newspaper. Upon the inauguration of the committee, we settled down to carry out the task set before us. We immediately proceeded to the headquarters of the Borno Prisons Service to see the State Comptroller of Prisons. Unfortunately, upon arrival at the state headquarters of the NPS, we realised that the nominee of the NPS in our committee, DCP Ahmed Oduba, has been recalled without our knowledge. This was confirmed to us by the state comptroller himself. That was where the drama all began. The Borno AG said they duly informed the comptroller of their mission and presented to him all documents at their disposal including the publication containing the allegations. The comptroller went through the documents and thereafter told us that his hands were tight, that he cannot take any decision at his level until he gets a clearance from the NPS headquarters Abuja. Being a committee of highly experienced people, we came back to the Secretariat of the committee to officially write a letter to the Comptroller General of the NPS, which was sent to him on the 29th of March, 2019. Another reminder letter was sent to him on the 4th of April, 2019, still asking him to grant this committee access to the prisons in order to carry out its investigation. We also reminded the CGP that the governor of the state is the chief security officer of the state and has the right to show concern over any security situation that may erupt in the state. And we also reminded him that the NPS is part of the membership of the state security council. We also wrote to the office of the National Human Rights Commission, to prevail on the Comptroller General of Prisons to reply to our letter and grant us access to the prisons but all proved abortive. We have had six sittings on this matter and at the end, we have resolved to wrute our report to inform you that we met an administrative brick wall as a result of the lack of cooperation from the Prisons headquarters Abuja as well as the Borno command of the NPS. Something fishy The attorney general said there must be something fishy within the tall walls of the prison, especially as the names of the inmates mentioned to be involved in the alleged rape cases were confirmed to be those prosecuted by the Borno ministry of justice for various offences before they were sent to court. We therefore conclude that there is something fishy within the prisons, the official said. But because of lack of access to the prisons, we were unable to unravel the mystery. Mr Shehu said already, various rights organisations, including Amnesty International, have been writing to the Borno government asking for a copy of the committees report. Exasperated Governor Advertisements Responding, after receiving the report, a visibly miffed Governor Shettima said the allegations are very grave that we cant afford to sweep it under the carpet. The governor said he was morally compelled while setting up the committee in order to let the world know the truth about happenings in the Nigerian prisons. It is very sad and condemnable that the Nigeria Prisons Service is bent on creating a brick wall on the path of justice. We ought to be partners in this enterprise. We cant deliberately embarrass the federal government; most especially (as) the issues of child prostitution, rape, sodomy and mass abortion have assumed an international dimension and any sensible government will not turn a blind eye to the atrocities that have been inflicted on our younger ones. We are going to handle this matter with all sense of maturity because we do not intend to overheat the polity. He said he would approach the minister of interior with a copy of the report. The strength and quality of any society depend on how they treat their weaker sex. The way we treat our wives, our sisters and daughters should be the barometer of assessing your self-worth and sense of morality. We cannot afford to play the ostrich here. It is true we have a problem of child prostitution and forced abortion. These were cases that were prosecuted by the Borno ministry of justice, and culprits were jailed, only for one to hear similar crimes being committed in the prison. So there is more to it than meets the eye. The attitude of the Comptroller General of Nigeria Prisons Service is detestable, condemnable and I think the federal government should begin to beam light on him because he who has nothing to hide, has nothing to fear for. Unless there is a certain thing that they dont want the world to know so they think by creating a brick wall, we will sweep it under the carpet. We will not. I deliberately requested for the presentation of this report because we want the world to know that we have made efforts to investigate the allegations. He said the report has exonerated the committee and the Borno government. Spurious, unfounded allegations- Prisons When contacted for comments, the prisons spokesman at the NPS headquarters Abuja, Francis Enobore, confirmed that they are fully aware of the allegations and the CGP had since assigned a committee to investigate the matter. He said the allegations were as spurious as they are unfounded. Mr Enobore, however, said the decision by the NPS to bar the committee from accessing the prison facilities in Maiduguri was never meant to undermine the committee or the government that constituted it. Comptroller General, Nigerian Prisons Service, Jaafar Ahmed. The NPS took that decision basically on the ground of national security and nothing more, he said. Everyone knows how fragile the security situation has been in the country and especially the North-east. And the CGP strongly feels the service cannot be acting on unfounded allegations to jeopardise the security of the country. This is not in any way meant to disrespect the Borno governor; he is a gentleman, whom even the CGP holds with much respect. For the purpose of record and clarity, I want to say the committee was not granted access because the NPS doesnt want it (committee) to do its (NPS) job. Access was denied because of a security breach their presence in the prison could cause. On the allegations that minors are being sexually abused in the prisons, Mr Enobore, a deputy comptroller of prisons, said: that cannot be true. Yes, it is a fact that there (are) some underaged persons in the prisons in Maiduguri, but that is not the situation in all prisons across the country. We all know the peculiarity of the situation in Borno State and we all know why those underaged children are kept in the prisons. Those children are being processed so that they can be taken to a more secured facility. And the fact that they are in the prison does not mean they are being kept in the same cell(s) with adults. There are cells for adults and for children; we have cells for males and females. So those allegations are not true, he said. The Court of Appeal on Thursday in Abuja nullified the victory of Ademola Adeleke at the Osun State governorship election petition tribunal. This was after the appeal filed by the Governor of Osun State, Gboyega Oyetola, challenging the declaration of Ademola Adeleke as the duly elected governor by the state election petition tribunal. The appellate court also set aside the judgement of the tribunal of March 22, which declared Mr Adeleke winner of the election. A five-member panel of the appeal court led by Jummai Sankey delivered the judgement with three members of the panel agreeing with the lead judgement. The three other judges in agreement with the lead judgement read by Jummai Sankey are Abubakar Yahaya, Isaiah Akeju, and Bitrus Sanga. A panel member, George Mbaba, gave a dissenting judgement. Mr Adeleke contested the governorship election on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). The Independent National Electoral Commission declared Mr Oyetola winner after a supplementary poll but the tribunal said Mr Oyetola won the election at the first ballot. Specifically, he faulted the judgment as unknown to the law because Justice Peter Obiorah who prepared and read the lead judgement did not participate fully during the hearing of the petition. Mr Oyetola whose appeal was first heard by the court of appeal drew the attention of the court to the February 6 proceedings in which Mr Obiorah was absent at the tribunal and did not sign the proceeding of that day. The appellant contended that what Mr Obiorah did amounted to judicial hear-say because the proceedings of February 6 when he was not in court was copiously copied in his lead judgement. Insisting that judicial hearsay has no place in law, Mr Oyetola asked the appeal court to quash the judgement, allow the appeal and uphold the governorship election. On his part, the counsel to APC, Akin Olujinmi, also faulted the judgment of the tribunal led by Ibrahim Sirajo, on the ground that the petition was based on the rerun election of September 27. DISSENTING JUDGEMENT In his dissenting judgment, Mr Mbaba disagreed that Justice Obiora did not not attend the proceedings of February 2. He said the allegation that Justice Obiora did not sit is a well-articulated speculation. According to Mr Mbaba, he resolved issues 1 to 4 in favour of Mr Adeleke and the Peoples Democratic Party. Mr Mbaba, therefore, dismissed the appeal and awarded a cost of N200,000 against the appelant (Mr Oyetola). The heads of security agencies who met with President Muhammadu Buhari on Thursday briefed him on what has been happening, with particular emphasis on the proliferation of small arms This was disclosed by the Chief of Naval Staff, Ibok-Ete Ibas. Mr Ibas, a vice admiral, also said that persons suspected to be responsible for the kidnap of the district head of Daura, the home town of President Muhammadu Buhari, have been arrested. He stated this Thursday while briefing State House correspondents after the closed-door meeting Mr Buhari had with heads of security agencies. The meeting held inside the presidents office at the Presidential Villa, Abuja. Musa Umar, the Daura district head, was kidnapped from his residence by four unidentified gunmen last week. Asked for any update regarding the kidnap of the traditional ruler, the naval chief said serious efforts are being made. Key suspects have been arrested and it is hoped that in a short while, those behind the heinous crime will be brought to book. What We Told Buhari Mr Ibas also said the security chiefs took advantage of the meeting to appraise Mr President of the security situation generally after his short vacation abroad. Mr Buhari returned from the UK on Sunday after 10 days of private visit. The security agencies briefed him on what has been happening with particular emphasis on the proliferation of small arms and what the various agencies are doing to curtail the consequences of this proliferation, Mr Ibas said. He said Mr Buhari directed that the agencies should do much more to ensure that Nigerians go to bed and wake up feeling healthy and confident that their security is guaranteed. On the rising spate of kidnappings across the country, the navy chief said the acting Inspector General of Police, Mohammed Adamu, had been directed to tackle the menace. He said consequently, various operations were set up by the police. With the set up of the operations, there has been a remarkable drop in the number of kidnappings. What normally would attract attention is when a key person in government perhaps is kidnapped. On the whole, the number of kidnappings has dropped and generally I think the security situation is improving, Mr Ibas said. Mr Ibas did not proivde any data to back his claim of reduction in kidnap incident. Kidnapping for ransom has become rampant in many parts of Nigeria. Apart from kidnappings, there have also been attacks by armed persons, bandits and ethnic/religious conflicts in many parts of Nigeria. PREMIUM TIMES reported how, on Monday, the Emir of Katsina, Abdulmumini Usma, lamented the security situation in his state. Every day I receive reports of kidnapping and killings from the district and village heads, he said. Nigerians are groaning again in darkness after the national electricity grid suffered a major failure on Wednesday, seizing power supply to homes amidst scorching weather conditions. The collapse has seen Nigerias electricity output dwindle to a meagre 230 megawatts or less for a population exceeding 180 million, PREMIUM TIMES learnt. This was against 4,032 megawatts national average that was generated a day before on May 7. At least two power generation engineers who spoke with PREMIUM TIMES under anonymity said the faults were still being traced as of Thursday afternoon, and power situation might not return to normal for another 72 hours. The National Control Centre acknowledged the crisis to electricity distributors on Wednesday evening, promising to get the system back on within a few hours. The centre did not say what triggered the collapse or how deep it was. While some distribution precincts received a few megawatts of power from the national grid that were barely enough to light a few bulbs, other parts of the country were plunged into total darkness. The Abuja Electricity Distribution Company, which distributes energy to homes in Kogi, Nasarawa, Niger and the federal capital, received only 20 megawatts from the national grid for several hours on Wednesday. It was late in the evening that the supply peaked at 70 megawatts. The four contiguous states have at least 13 million people between them. At about 5:51 a.m. Thursday, the supply dropped again from its 70 megawatts highs, according to power distribution officials. The officials spoke under anonymity to avoid being sanctioned by federal regulators. The Yola Electricity Distribution Company, which feeds most of Nigerias northeastern flank, received zero allocation, according to a disclaimer on its Twitter handle Thursday morning. A spokesperson for the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) did not return PREMIUM TIMES telephone calls seeking comments about the failures Thursday afternoon. Even though Nigeria generates a fraction of the energy it needs to power the country, consistent power failures have continued to assail the little progress it occasionally records in the sector. In June 2018, the country was thrown into darkness after the national grid suffered acute gas shortages to fire turbines. The TCN responded swiftly to the crisis, but it took more than 72 hours to resolve the failure. The police in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have arrested eight suspects in connection with the death of an Abuja woman, Esther Okah. Ms Okah was stabbed to death on Sunday by an assailant at CBN junction, Ungwan Cement, Karimo, on her way home after an outing with friends at Gwarimpa. In a statement on Thursday, the deputy spokesperson of the police in the FCT, Danjuma Gajere, said the suspects were helping the police to unravel the killers. Mr Gajere said that investigation into the incident was ongoing and the suspects would be arraigned in court at the conclusion of the investigation. He said that the Commissioner of Police in the FCT, Adamu Ciroma, had reassured the public of the commands commitment to checkmating crimes and criminalities. According to him, Mr Ciroma urged members of the public to continue supporting the police with useful information. (NAN) The Senate has confirmed the appointment of Abike Dabiri-Erewa as the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of Nigerian citizens in Diaspora Commission. The letter seeking confirmation of her appointment was sent to the Senate in November 2018. Ms Dabiri-Erewa is currently the Senior Special Adviser to the President on Foreign Affairs and Diaspora. She was a member of the House of Representatives representing Ikorodu Federal Constituency in Lagos from 2003 to 2015. While she was at the House of Representatives, Ms Dabiri-Erewa chaired the House Committee on Diaspora Affairs. She also sponsored the bill seeking the establishment of the Nigerian Diaspora Commission. Her confirmation was made after the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Diaspora and Non-Governmental Organisations, Rose Oko, presented the report of the committee. In her presentation, the lawmaker said Ms Dabiri-Erewa possesses wide experience in the public sector and the necessary qualifications. She also said the nominee possesses exposure, experience in politics and government policies. She, therefore, recommended the confirmation. She explained that no member of the board of the commission has been appointed by the executive or sent to the Senate for confirmation. The Senate, thereafter, resolved to confirm Ms Dabiri-Erewa after which the Senate President, Bukola Saraki congratulated her and wished her a successful tenure. The Academic Staff Union of Research Institutions (ASURI) has appealed to the Nigerian government to fund Science and Technology institutions in the country. The union made the appeal on Thursday at a press briefing in Abuja by its National Secretary, Theophllus Ndubuaku. He said more funds will help improve research results from these institutions. Mr Ndubuaku disagreed with the notion that Nigerian researchers have failed. Even if the results are poor, they carry out researches with their personal funds, he said. He said if funds are provided, results will improve. The ASURI scribe said Nigerian researchers are not seeking extra allocations but want the allocated bill. ASURI had in April taken to the streets of Abuja to protest the refusal of President Muhammadu Buhari to assent to the National Research and Innovation Council (NRIC) bill. The bill seeks to, among others, provide funds for Nigerian researchers. Mr Ndubuaku said other countries that initiated and implemented similar policies are advanced in technology. He said ASURI was confident that NRIC will promote development in Nigeria. The Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Okechukwu Enelamah, says the N14.3 billion meant for Nigeria Special Economic Zones Company (NSEZCO) is still in Central Bank of Nigeria account. Mr Enelamah made the clarification in Abuja on Thursday at a news conference. The Senate in April directed Mr Enelemah and the acting Managing Director of Nigeria Export Processing Zones Authority (NEPZA), Terhemba Nongo, to return N14.3 billion to the purse of the federal government. The Senate alleged that the money was transferred from NEPZAs account into the account of a private company, the Nigerian Special Economic Zone Company. The Federal Government has already released N14.3 billion as part of its 25 per cent (125 million dollars) investment commitment to the company. The remaining 75 per cent (375 million dollars) will soon be provided by other private investors. N14.3 billion has been transferred to Central Bank of Nigerias account of NSEZCO, and the money is still there intact, waiting for other investors, he said Mr Enelamah said that the federal government had done a lot in the area of Ease of Doing Business. He said the ministry had improved the operational environment for businesses in the country supported the growth of Medium and Small-scale Enterprises. According to him, the ministry has contributed significantly to attracting more foreign investments into the country in the last four years The removal of bottlenecks has enhanced reduction of challenges encountered by Small and Medium Enterprise and other businesses in areas such as starting a business; access to credit and paying taxes. Others are enforcing contracts or trading within and across borders while investor interest in Nigeria has increased. Investment announcements of 90.9 billion dollars recorded in 2018, is 37 per cent increase over the 66.4 billion dollars tracked in 2017, he said. On industrialisation, Mr Enelamah said the implementation of the Nigeria Industrial Revolution Plan and the establishment of the Nigeria Industrial Policy and Competitiveness Advisory Council was yielding result. He said the council had made many high-level interventions to address industrial sector issues such as electricity supply, broadband penetration and access roads. In the last four years, there have been sustained efforts to build capacity, increased access to finance and eliminate bottlenecks to conducting business in Nigeria, he said. Mr Enelamah said the ministry had increased access to finance for Micro- Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) by providing capital for both start-ups and expansion through the interventions of the Bank of Industry and the World Bank-funded Growth and Employment (GEM) Project. He said the National Council on Micro Small and Medium Enterprises (NCMES) for more focus on MSMES had been set up. Between January 2015 and October 2018, the bank disbursed a total of N487.5 billion to 3,334 large, medium and small enterprises. Under the GEM project, a total of N3.7 billion has been disbursed to 910 grantees via the grant windows, while over 21,191 MSMEs have received technical assistance, the minister said. According to him, to accelerate the Nigeria Industrial Revolution Plan, work has continued on Project MINE, (Made in Nigeria for Exports), to aid structural transformation of the Nigerian economy by increasing the manufacturing sectors contribution to GDP to 20 per cent by 2025. He said the project would also contribute to sustainable inclusive growth by creating 1.5 million new direct manufacturing jobs in the initial phase. Mr Enelamah said the project would also increase and diversify foreign exchange earnings to at least 30 billion dollars annually by 2025 by increasing manufacturing sector exports. (NAN) Advertisements The Director-General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Isa Pantami, has challenged Nigeria to refocus its economy in tandem with global economic growth. Mr Pantami said Nigeria is part of the hyperconnected world of the internet community in which data is the most valuable asset. He said the new economic reality poses a significant threat to oil-based economies like Nigeria and other economies that depend largely on natural resources. The NITDA boss spoke Thursday at the official presentation of the draft Nigeria Smart Initiative Policy Framework (NSIPF) in Abuja. The new digital economy fuelled by technological innovation with advances in Artificial Intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoTs), and Internet of Everything (IoE) promises to leave no sector untouched. But only those who adapt very quickly to technological changes will derive the benefits that come with it, he said. Mr Pantami said countries are already complying with smart city initiatives as a core component of IoT technologies. Mr Pantami said with its population strength, Nigeria stands a good chance of benefiting from the booming smart technology economy. Nigeria, standing as a regional leader, will need to proactively do something about the new economy and its policy challenges in preparing for the disruption and pressure it brings to societies especially in the area of jobs and economic opportunities. He challenged policymakers and leaders in the country to embrace the opportunities of smart technology and shed the old ways of doing things. The NITDA director general commended the Nigeria Immigration Service, Nigerian Customs, and the Corporate Affairs Commission as an example of agencies adapting technology. Mr Pantami said NITDA is making efforts to promote smart initiatives in critical sectors such as Health and Agriculture. In healthcare, we adopted collaboration and partnership strategies with the Federal Ministry of Health and other stakeholders to develop eHealth Policy as the starting point to provide an enabling environment for technology entrepreneurs who are willing to innovate and deliver novel healthcare solutions. He said the agency is also working on a Smart Agriculture project called Adopted Village which will connect agriculture stakeholders and entities through digital and smart platforms that will serve as drivers for enhancing agriculture value chains. Stakeholders at the meeting brainstormed on the draft Smart Initiatives Policy and proffered opportunities and modalities for implementation. Nigeria remains unopposed in its bid for the presidency of the 74th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). Monica Gravley, spokesperson to the President of the outgoing 73rd UNGA, Maria Espinosa, disclosed this to UN correspondents in New York on Thursday. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the country is represented in the race by its Permanent Representative to the UN, Tijani Mohammed-Bande. Mr Mohammed-Bande, a Professor of Political Science and former Director-General of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), formally announced his bid in New York on Saturday. Election for the 74th UNGA president, which is zoned to Africa, will take place at the UN headquarters in New York on June 4. An informal interactive session with candidates for the position is scheduled for Monday also in New York, and would be webcast through UN WebTV According to Ms Gravley, the session will be led by Ms Espinosa, an Ecuadorian, whose one-year tenure as President of the 73th UNGA ends in September. Earlier in a letter to member states of the Assembly, Ms Espinosa explained that the informal dialogues were aimed at contributing to the transparency and inclusivity of the process. This, she said, is in line with Resolution 71/323 of the General Assembly, and gives candidates the opportunity to present their vision statements and plans for the future presidency. UNGA is one of the six principal organs of the UN, the only one in which member nations have equal representation. All 193 members of the United Nations are members of the General Assembly, with the addition of Holy See and Palestine as observer states It is the main deliberative, policy-making and representative organ of the UN. Its powers include overseeing the UN budget, appointment of the non-permanent members to the Security Council, and appointment of the UN Secretary-General. (NAN) A group of women have called out residents of Abuja to join in a protest at the Eagle Square on Friday against police harassment of women in recent weeks. The protest is against recent raids and arrests of women in clubs within Abuja. The protest, with the #AbujaPoliceRaidOnWomen is expected to hold at 9 a.m. at the square. Last month, Premium Times reported how some officials of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), raided a popular night club, Caramelo, and arrested 34 female nude dancers. Two weeks after, another 70 womenwere reportedly arrested from different clubs in Abuja and detained at Utako police station. The acting Abuja police spokesperson, Danjuma Tanimu, confirmed the arrest. He said they were arrested for hanging around nightclubs in Abuja. Some of the women arrested were later bailed while 32 others were charged to a mobile court sitting in FCT. Out of the 32 women presented before the court, 27 of them were convicted and sentenced to one month in prison for prostitution, PREMIUM TIMES learnt. Some of the arrested women also accused police officers of raping them in exchange for their freedom. The evil I feared in the PDP (Peoples Democratic Party) has befallen me 10 times in the APC (All Progressives Congress), said Rochas Okorocha as he launched a fierce attack on the leadership of the ruling party. Mr Okorocha, the outgoing governor of Imo State, was reacting to the controversy trailing the refusal of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to declare him a senator-elect. He accused the national chairman of the APC, Adams Oshiomhole, and other unnamed leaders of the party of working with the electoral commission to kill his senatorial ambition. The governor singled out Festus Okoye, a commissioner in INEC, saying he was being used as the hatchet man for the plot. Mr Okorocha said this at an interaction with journalists Tuesday in Abuja, according to Punch Newspaper. PREMIUM TIMES reported how Mr Okorocha was declared the winner of the Imo West senatorial election. The presiding officer, Francis Ibeawuchi, however, said he was forced to make the declaration under duress. It is based on that that the electoral commission refused to issue Mr Okorocha a certificate of return. INEC said it was reviewing the situation but has failed to act two months after issuing other senators-elect their certificates of return and barely 20 days to their inauguration. The commission remained unperturbed even after Mr Okorocha approached a Federal High Court in Abuja, seeking an order compelling INEC to issue him a certificate of return. On Tuesday the governor narrated how he wrote an official letter to the commission over the situation. He said the image of the commission had been bastardised. His Words The evil I feared in the PDP has befallen me 10 times in the APC. Last week, I wrote a letter to INEC for the first time, informing them of their wrongdoings and illegal actions to withhold my certificate on mere allegation of duress which was never founded, neither was there any committee set up to investigate the matter. So, INEC on its own believed the reports of the Returning Officer without investigating the authenticity of the accusation. So, there was no issue of fair hearing at all. What is important here is that INEC does not have the power to withhold the certificate of return, having declared the result. I believe the INEC chairman is up to a game with the chairman of the APC, who is being used to frustrate my coming to the Senate, and this is politically motivated. Ive given INEC enough time to correct itself and do the needful and issue me my certificate of return but to no avail. Many things have happened so far and these should be of concern to everyone. INEC that made the submission to the tribunal has gone back, requesting to withdraw it because the submission was defending its declaration. But because the submission seems to be in my favour, they have said they want to withdraw the affidavit which is out of time. The withdrawal was made by one of their members of staff who said that Festus Okoye, a commissioner in INEC, had threatened to sack him if he did not withdraw it. So, there is a huge threat going on in INEC. Festus Okoye is presently being used as the hatchet man; he has gone to the tribunal in Imo asking for the withdrawal of the affidavit that has been filed defending the APC. I wonder what they want to do with the certificate, if they dont give it to me, who will they give it to? Maybe they will give it to Festus Okoye because he is from my senatorial district but what they are doing is presenting INEC as a lying organisation and that is dangerous for our democracy because, as it stands right now, the image of INEC is bastardised. What it means is that tomorrow somebody can withhold the certificate of return of anybody because you dont like his face, because you feel that he wants to politically challenge you in future. If you know the President (Buhari) well, you will know that he will never intervene as he will only keep mute. But whether President Buhari speaks or not, INEC should do the right thing by giving me my certificate of return. Advertisements Okorochas Trouble with APC Mr Okorochas ambition of naming his successor has been the bane of his conflict with the APC. He has been at daggers head with Mr Oshiomhole, the chairman of the party. Apart from not being recognised as a senator-elect, Mr Okorochas party, APC, suspended him from the party two days after Mr Buhari was announced the winner of the February 23 Presidential polls. The governor was suspended for anti-party activities after he supported the governorship candidate of another party, Uche Nwosu of Action Alliance, against Hope Uzodinma of the APC. Both candidates, however, lost to Emeka Ihedioha of the PDP. The APC had said it cannot intervene on behalf of Mr Okorocha in the senatorial seat saga, because the outgoing Imo governor is still serving his suspension from the party. A State High Court in Ibadan on Thursday admitted Olafisoye Akinmoyede, Chief Whip of the Oyo State House of Assembly, who was allegedly linked to the murder of a member of the House of Representatives, Temitope Olatoye, alias Sugar, to bail in the sum of N50 million. Mr Olatoye, who represents Lagelu/Akinyele Federal Constituency, was shot dead on March 9 around Lalupon garage. Admitting Mr Akinmoyede to bail, Mashud Abass, the judge, ordered him to produce two sureties in like sum one of who must be a civil servant not below GL14 or member of the state House or National Assembly members. Mr Abass ordered that the second surety must be a blood relation with landed property worth N50 million. Earlier, the judge frowned at the action of the police, describing it as arrogant, unlawful and unconstitutional. The practice of the police making arrests before investigation is not proper. The power of the police to arrest and detain is not in doubt but the Constitution stipulates that any person detained must be arraigned within 24 hours. The remand order obtained by the police from an Iyaganku Magistrates Court expired on April 4 and detaining the applicant beyond this period is fragrant disobedient to the Constitution. Obedience to court order should be the responsibility of all who believe in the stability of Nigeria, Mr Abass held. The judge said the police had not provided any justification that would warrant the court not to grant bail to the applicant. NAN reports that Mr Akinmoyede, through his counsel, Michael Lana, filed an enforcement of fundamental human rights suit against the police for detaining his client since March 11, without charging him to court. The counsel had urged the court to declare the continued detention of his client in police custody in Abuja as unlawful and a violation of his fundamental human right. He urged the court to grant bail to his client pending his arraignment at the court of law. (NAN) President Muhammadu Buhari on Thursday in Abuja received a briefing from service chiefs and heads of other security agencies, including the acting Inspector-General of Police, Muhammed Adamu. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the president had on Tuesday met with the security chiefs and heads of security agencies at the Presidential Villa, Abuja. NAN recalls that Governor Atiku Bagudu of Kebbi also briefed the security meeting on Tuesday. Those at the meeting on Thursday include the Minister of Defence, Mansur Dan-Ali; National Security Adviser, Babagana Monguno; Director-General of the Department of State Services, Yusuf Bichi, and the Director-General, National Intelligence Agency (NIA), Ahmed Rufai. Others were the Chief of Staff to the President, Malam Abba Kyari, and the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha. (NAN) The police on Thursday said 22 Nigerians and five Chinese have been rescued from a kidnappers den in a remote forest in Kaduna State. Inspector-General Mohammed Adamu said in a statement Thursday afternoon that the victims were rescued by officers attached to Operation Puff Adder. The Chinese were kidnapped on April 15 in Bobi, Niger State. They were rescued on May 5 from a forest in Birnin Gwari, a restive local government area where kidnappers have been on rampage for more than four years. The 22 Nigerians were rescued in Zamfara State. They were believed to have been kidnapped from different locations across the country. It was unclear the average period they spent in captivity before their freedom. Mr Adamu said at least two suspected kidnappers were killed from firefight with officers. The police chief credited investigative efforts, including air and ground surveillance, for the successful operation. Arrest spree The rescues came as outrage intensified across the country over polices handling of the nations security crisis. Scores of Nigerians are kidnapped weekly, including high-profile individuals. Mr Adamu assumed office in mid January, promising a revamp of existing security architecture in order to bolster law enforcement response to the challenges. The police chief said 270 suspected kidnappers had been taken into custody since he assumed office and the first week in May. At least 275 suspected armed robbers were also arrested. Officers recovered 105 assorted weapons plus a large cache of ammunition from the crackdown on armed bandits, Mr Adamu said. The acting Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Mohammad Tanko, on Thursday spoke on how the Supreme Court arrives at its judgments. Receiving the management of Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) who paid him a courtesy visit in his office, Mr Mohammed said the justices of the apex court are independent-minded and cannot be intimidated by anybody. He said the judicial officers are only answerable to their conscience and God while writing and delivering judgments in all cases that come before them. This was contained in a statement issued by the Director, Press and Information, Supreme Court of Nigeria, Akande Festus, at the end of the visit. Other Justices of the Supreme Court at the event were Olukayode Ariwoola, Kekere-Ekun, Musa Dattijo, Ejembi Eko and Uwani Abba-Aji. We take our time in taking notes and writing judgments to avoid making mistakes. We subject every case before us to intense debates and arguments during our conferences in order to be as dispassionate and objective as possible. Let me state clearly that we are not answerable to anybody and can never be intimidated by anybody whatsoever in taking our decisions. But for certain, we are only answerable to God Almighty because he is the owner of our lives. No human being, living or dead can influence the reasoning or judgments of the Supreme Court of Nigeria. We are very independent in the Supreme Court because of the enormity of the trust and responsibility reposed in us by the Almighty God, the Constitution and our dear nation, the acting CJN stated. According to the statement, Mr Mohammed told the AMCON visitors that the Supreme Court of Nigeria has so far remained the busiest and most hardworking Supreme Court in the world. He said this is in view of the number of appeals received and heard on a weekly basis as well as the number of judgments delivered within a short duration. I beat my chest to say that there is no Supreme Court in the world that works the way the Supreme Court of Nigeria does. Except when we go on our annual vacation between late July and early September of every year, we keep hearing appeals. It is on record that there is no day of the week, between Monday and Friday that we dont sit. We deliver judgments on Fridays. Sometimes, we give as much as 35 judgments on some Fridays. We oftentimes over-stretch ourselves, as we work assiduously day in, day out. If you see the number of appeals that come to this court on a regular basis, it will shock you. Basically, as it is today, there is nothing we can do about it for now, except there is a Constitutional amendment. Ideally, it is not every case that is supposed to reach the Supreme Court. Some ought to be terminating at the Court of Appeal. Mr Muhammad assured the AMCON management that the court, in spite of the rapid inflow of appeals, would always endeavour to give all cases involving both private individuals and other critical sectors of the Nigerian state expeditious hearing and attention, with a view to oiling the wheel of the nations economic development. Earlier in his address, the AMCON Chairman, Muiz Banire, told the acting CJN and other justices of the Supreme Court present that AMCON was created in 2010 by an act of parliament to assist in the financial system stability as a result of economic downturn of 2006-2008. Mr Banire said the corporation consequently acquired over 120,000 loans from 23 banks totalling N3.8 trillion. The AMCON chairman further added that an additional N2.2 trillion was paid as financial accommodation for the ailing banks. The total current exposure as at April 30, according to Mr Banire, is N4.19 trillion, with an excess of 7,000 outstanding obligors. Top 350 obligors account for 82 per cent of the outstanding loans of N4.19 trillion, while just the top 100 made up 67 per cent. Mr Banire surprisingly revealed that the top 20 accounts with total current exposure of N1.71 trillion, made 41 per cent of the total current exposure of N4.19 trillion. The major handicap of the corporation, he stated, is the delay tactics often employed by the defaulters to frustrate the cases currently pending in various courts across the country, the statement added. Advertisements The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate for Osun 2018 Governorship Election, Ademola Adeleke, said he had instructed his counsels to challenge the appeal court judgement which upheld Governor Gboyega Oyetolas election at the Supreme Court. Mr Adeleke, in a statement made available to journalists in Osogbo, the state capital on Thursday, said he received the appeal court judgement with dissatisfaction. According to him, the judgment of the appeal court relied on weak technical foundation, while the substantive issue which formed the basis of the lower tribunal judgement was relegated to the background. I received with dissatisfaction the judgement of the Court of Appeal on the ruling of the election petition tribunal which had duly returned me as the validly elected governor of Osun state. I have subsequently instructed my counsel to prepare for an appeal against todays judgement at the Supreme Court immediately. Todays judgement relied on weak technical foundation. The substantive issue which formed the basis of the lower tribunal judgement was relegated to the background. We are reviewing the full ruling and action has already commenced to appeal the judgement and ensure the eventual retrieval of the stolen mandate, Mr Adeleke said. He, however, urged the people of the state not to be downcast, saying that the struggle for good governance and retrieval of the peoples mandate cannot be truncated by any flawed judgement. We are taking the legal battle further to the topmost court in the land. I am confident the apex court will upturn todays unsustainable ruling. To all members of PDP in Osun State and my campaign organisation, the struggle is now at the most critical stage. We cannot waiver nor slow down. We must forge ahead in high spirit until final victory is attained. In this endeavour, I promise to provide the leadership as the genuine governorship mandate holder in Osun State Mr Adeleke said. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Abuja Division of the Court of Appeal nullified the judgment of the Osun State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal. The tribunal had in its verdict of March 22 declared the PDP and its candidate, Mr Adeleke, the winner of the September 22, 2018 polls. However, Justice Jummai Sankey, read the lead judgment of the Court of Appeal on Thursday. Justices Abubakar Yahaya, Isaiah Akeju and Bitrus Sanga agreed with the lead verdict. A fifth member of the appellate court, Justice Ita Mbaba, disagreed and upheld the election tribunals verdict that gave the victory to Mr Adeleke. (NAN) The UN has appointed the Emir of Kano, Muhammad Sanusi II, as a member of the new class of Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Advocates. UN Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres made the announcement through his spokesman, Farhan Haq, at a news conference in New York on Thursday. The SDG Advocates are 17 influential public figures committed to raising awareness, inspiring greater ambition, and pushing for faster action on the SDGs, Mr Sanusi is one of the six new members of the group, which is co-chaired by President Nana Akufo-Addo of Ghana and the Prime Minister of Norway, Erna Solberg. The other five new members were Hindou Ibrahim of Chad, Dia Mirza of India, Edward Ndopu of South Africa, Nadia Murad of Iraq and Marta Vieira da Silva of Brazil. Haq said the six new members were taking over from the previous six who had been made SDG Advocate Alumni. The Secretary-General looks forward to working with the group over the coming years to advance the SDGs, the spokesman said. Governor Abdullahi Ganduje of Kano State on Wednesday assented to a bill approving the creation of four additional emirates in the state, effectively reducing the influence of the Emir of Kano, Muhammad Sanusi. The state House of Assembly had earlier passed the law removing 36 local government areas from the Kano Emirate to create the four new emirates. (NAN) The Senate Chief Whip, Olusola Adeyeye, on Thursday said he would continue to oppose bills that seek to create new universities in Nigeria. Mr Adeyeye said this while contributing to a debate on a bill seeking the establishment of Maritime University in Lokoja, Kogi State. The bill was sponsored by Isaac Alfa, Kogi East senator. Mr Adeyeye, while commenting on the bill, said the existing universities are poorly funded. He vowed to continue to oppose bills seeking creation of new universities until the present ones are well funded. It is no secret that the federal universities across this country are extremely poorly funded. You take the same basket of money, you create more universities, and you spread the money around into more places and you get even greater and worse under-funding. With every cell in my body, I will continue to oppose every new university until the existing ones are well-funded. Otherwise, we are just foisting 419 on our children. If there is a need for maritime studies, lets have universities in maritime areas to create a faculty of maritime studies. But to keep creating new ones is nothing but foisting 419 and gimmickry on our children. It is not fair to the young ones. Therefore, I pray that all of us will oppose this new university and any new one until the existing ones are well-funded, he said. His position was supported by Adamu Aliero, who said the existing universities only churn out half-baked graduates due to its poor funding. In the same vein, the Senate Minority Whip, Abiodun Olujimi, condemned the bill while. She urged Mr Alfa to withdraw, do work more on the bill and re-present. But Mr Alfa insisted on pushing the bill through second reading. Just as the last time here (when a motion to declare Kogi oil producing state was rejected), I was asked to withdraw, I didnt, four of the resolutions were accepted. This bill is a well thought-out bill. We shouldnt attach geo-location to anything we do. Having done so much work on this I decline to withdraw the bill, he said. The bill was eventually rejected after a voice vote. The Senate Leader, Ahmed Lawan, says he has no ill feelings towards Ali Ndume or Danjuma Goje, over who becomes the next Senate President in the ninth assembly. Mr Lawan, an All Progressives Congress (APC) senator, representing Yobe- North, made the remark when he was a guest at the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) Forum in Abuja. The APC has zoned the senate presidents slot to the north east where the trio of Lawan, Ndume and Goje hail from. However, the ruling party endorsed the candidacy of Mr Lawan for the position. But Mr Ndume (APC Borno South) and Mr Goje (APC Gombe Central), have stood their grounds on vying for the number one seat of the Senate. I want to thank my party and my leaders for having confidence in me. I want to assure everyone very seriously because it is a burden that my party feels I can carry. By the grace of God and with the support of my colleagues in the APC, PDP and YPP in the Senate, we should be able to deliver that burden very well. I have no hard feelings against my brothers from the north east contesting. What the party and the leaders did was to say I have been recommended or I have been endorsed. That is a preference; that the party has a preference is not to say that others cannot do the job. But definitely, the party, our leaders have some reasons why they think we are most suitable for this job, Mr Lawan said. The lawmaker, however, said the decision of his colleagues to contest the position with him was constitutional. But this is democracy; you cannot shut out somebody if that person feels he has the right to run and of course, the constitution allows for that. But definitely, the party and the leaders have spoken and we are not resting on our oars. We are going from door to door; we are talking to all the senators-elect. We talk to the APC senators, PDP senators and YPP senator, believing that we are going to work with them. Therefore, we need to bridge the gap and we need to know ourselves even before we get there, he said. According to him, the effort is yielding fruits because majority of the senators feel that really we have something to offer and that by the grace of God when we are able to make it, we can, together, work out that desirous legislative interventions of the time for the executive to have something to work on. So we are glad that we are working with majority of our colleagues across party lines. In fact, APC senators, almost everyone is on this project and we have sat and spoken and talked one-on-one. So many PDP senators are in support of this project. In fact, YPP is fully onboard, Sen. Ifeanyi Uba from Anambra. And we believe that this is the way to go, he said. He called on his colleagues to collaborate with him in helping the next administration deliver on those things that everybody in this country is yearning for. And I believe no senator will turn his or her position against those issues that unite us. Advertisements We have achieved much in terms of fighting insurgency, though we still have some security challenges. No senator will vote against that, every senator will vote for that. We want the economy to work for everybody from those at the lowest level of the ladder to those who are entrepreneurs, who will create employment opportunities. We believe that we have to find jobs for our teaming youth. Unemployment is one challenge that we have to deal with. And as a legislature, we are prepared to go all the way with the executive arm of government to ensure that we reduce the level of unemployment in the county. Perhaps, that will also help us in indirectly dealing with the security situation, he said. Mr Lawan said if elected, the senate would ensure that public funds were judiciously utilised through its oversight function. We want to see public funds being properly applied and deployed, we want to see less of embezzlement or no embezzlement of public funds. This is because sometimes not the quantum of funds that you have but how you are able to ensure proper and prudent deployment of those resources that matters. We had so much resources in the past but bulk of those resources were embezzled, he said. He noted that though the present government had fewer resources available to it than previous governments, it was able to deliver more dividends of democracy to Nigerians. You know that today in this country from 2015, we have more projects, physically identifiable and measurable projects across this country with the less resources. This is so because corruption has been reduced in the country, he remarked. According to him, before, corruption was almost a virtue and some people will never mention it, even in government circuit. So we believe that, collectively, we can do a lot of those things that Nigerians will have some relief and some succour, and life becomes much better than it is. So we want to go the whole way and I believe that anyone who wants to run is free to run but at the end of the day, my colleagues, by the grace of God, will decide that we have the day, he stated. (NAN) The Plateau State chapter of Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) has disclosed that Fulani herders have no plan of carrying out a reprisal attack on any community over the recent killings of two herdsmen and more than 300 of their cows. There have been fear by some communities in Plateau that Fulani herders would carry out a reprisal attack for the killing of more than 300 cattle on April 29. The umbrella body of the group made the disclosure on Wednesday through its state chairman, Nura Abdullahi, during a press conference held in Jos. This is the second time the group is calling for a meeting after the incident. On April 29, state police spokesperson, Tyopev Terna, confirmed that 319 cows were killed while two herders were missing, following the killing of two persons in villages of Bassa Local Government Area. In a statement read by the chairman during the conference, he said, It is a baseless rumour that we are planning any reprisal attack on any person. We have held meetings where we invited our people. The Commander of Operation Safe Haven (OPSH), Major General Augustine Agundu, was in attendance. We cautioned our members not to take the law into their hands. Mr Abdulahi alleged that some Irigwe armed bandits of Kwal, Maiyanga, and Ariri villages of Kwal district, Bassa LGA, and other criminal elements killed Shehu Saedu and Mubarak Adamu without any provocation and buried them in shallow graves, an allegation that was denied by the leader of the group, David Chinge. These innocent people were on their lawful business of rearing their cows in Dogon Gaba village, a general area where there are neither villages nor farmlands, he said. The attack is a continued conspiracy against the economy of the Fulani community, where their cows are continuously attacked and killed. He added that in March, 137 of their cows were killed. These callous acts have continued fuelling the conflict in Plateau State, which the government of the state and people of goodwill are trying their best to resolve but unfortunately some disgruntled elements are sabotaging their efforts, he said. The chairman, however, appreciated the efforts of security agencies, urging that farmers and pastoralist should always be encouraged to settle their grievances by themselves and avoid as much as a possible third party outside their communities. The North Central Chairman of MACBAN, Danladi Chiroma, on his part during the conference said they have been urging their people to allow the government and security agents to do their work. The method we are applying to please our people now is by contributing cows to them so that they can have something doing. We have called a lot of Fulani and they are cooperating, while we wait and see what the government will do, he said. Mr Chiroma said the crisis in Plateau State has lasted for too long, urging that, it is about time we all decide to leave in peace and we will not allow the merchants of evil return us to the past dark days. A group of protesters under the Kano First Forum have condemned the decision of Governor Abdullahi Ganduje and the State House of Assembly to split the Kano Emirate into five. The protesters led by Yusuf Rabiu on Thursday called on the governor and lawmakers to immediately rescind the decision, which they described as a misplaced priority in the face of many pressing issues in the state. The demonstrators waved placards with various inscriptions such as More emirates are not needed, Education, water, security and peace are our priority, We say no to undemocratic laws and We say no to politicising emirship. They marched along Gidan Murtala Road before they were dispersed by the police. Addressing journalists, the leader of the group, Mr Rabiu, said Mr Ganduje should understand the difference between the Emir and Kano Emirate. He said while the governor can institute action against the emir, he must not allow his decision to affect the emirate as an institution. He said the creation of the new emirates will bring disunity and enmity among Kano people. The move will ruin our heritage that has survived for over two thousand years, as the grand emirate will lose prestige in the process. And finally, none of the emerging ones will fill the gap in this 21st Century. He said the lawmakers should have focused on pressing issues like education, water supply, health, and the dying Kano businesses. He said over 3.5 million youth are jobless in Kano. Some of the protesters pictured during the protest The group described the investigation of Kano Emirite finances by Kano State Public Complaint and Anti-corruption Commission as a witch hunt to tarnish the image of the emir. The State House of Assembly had on Wednesday passed into law the bill for the creation of additional emirates in Rano, Karaye, Gaya and Bichi. Mr Ganduje promptly signed the bill into law on the same day. With the enactment of the law, Emir Sanusis domain was reduced from 44 local government areas to only eight. Anti Graft Commission Interrogated Ex Kano Emirate Official Some of the protesters pictured during the protest The Kano State Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission on Thursday interrogated Isa Bayero, a former top aide to Emir of Kano, Muhammad Sanusi II. He was accused of misappropriation of funds of Kano Emirate. PREMIUM TIMES had reported that the anti-graft body invited the former aide to the emir in a letter dated May 2 and addressed to the Kano Emirate Council Secretary. Mr Bayero, after appearing before the investigation team, told reporters that he was presented with some documents, which he went through and requested for time to study. Some of the protesters pictured during the protest I was not given any specific time to report but if I am able to go through the documents (today), May 9, I will call back the following day to face the panel for further interrogation, he said. There is speculation in Kano that Mr Bayero, an uncle to Emir Sanusi, had leaked some emirates financial documents to the state government, which led to the investigation of the emir. A former Head of State, Abdulsalami Abubakar, has commended Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State for executing projects that are adding values to lives of the people of the state. Mr Abubakar, a retired general, gave the commendation during an interaction with journalists after a closed door meeting with Mr Obaseki at the Government House in Benin on Thursday. He said to sustain the developmental strides and facilities being provided by the government, residents must pay their taxes and ensure protection of the properties against vandalism. I served in Benin and l cannot believe what I have seen in terms of development projects. I commend the governor for the successes he has achieved; the development made is quite impressive. We commend Obaseki for his vision, hard work and doggedness to ensure that living condition of the people is improved in the state. The state government is doing what it can provide, it is the duty of the citizens to protect these facilities and pay their taxes, he said. Responding, Mr Obaseki described the visit of Mr Abubakar as an honour and commended him for making policies that are still yielding positive results in the country. He said in spite of the fact that Mr Abubakars tenure in office was short; he made remarkable impact in the country. The former Head of State is in the state to attend the 20th Anniversary of Igbinedion University, Okada. (NAN) The House of Representatives has passed a resolution calling for the freezing of the account of the Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP). The account is domiciled with Stanbic IBTC Bank Plc. The lawmakers said the account should be frozen and full investigation into its status conducted. They also resolved that the Ministry of Finance and the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation be asked to publish and sanction with immediate effect all ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs), as well as private organisations and banks where federal government funds are hidden. The freezing of HYPREPs account was one of many recommendations adopted by the House on Thursday. HYPREP is the agency in charge of the coordination of the cleanup of the heavily polluted Ogoni land. Ogoni area in Rivers State has over the years been destroyed by oil spills leading to the destruction of surrounding waters and farm lands. The cleanup has been enmeshed in controversy, PREMIUM TIMES recently published a report that showed how a majority of the companies contracted to handle the cleanup were not qualified. The directive to freeze the HYPREP account was given after the House considered the report of its committee that investigated the implementation of the Treasury Single Account (TSA) policy. The chairman of the ad hoc committee on TSA, Danburam Abubakar, who presented the report, made the recommendations. The lawmakers also said all MDAs who violated the TSA policy should be sanctioned accordingly. The House directed that payments outside the TSA policy should be suspended as it is seen as an attempt to circumvent the policy. They added that the application of waivers of any MDAs account must follow the guidelines on TSA implementation and duly approved and signed by the president only. Other resolutions are that the accountant-general should henceforth carry out a quarterly appraisal and reconciliation of the TSA/CFR account and publish reports on the performance of the TSA and; That the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) should make full disclosures on the natures and status of the fund in the NNPC Pension Fund Ltd domiciled in Aso Savings and Loans Plc. The arrest and ongoing trial of Ademola Adeleke, a Nigerian senator, is an attempt to hound opposition voices in the country, the governorship candidate of Restoration Party in Osun State, Mercy Ayodele, has said. She also suggested that the state governor, Gboyega Oyetola, was behind the trial. Such act was a manifestation of intolerant political leadership using state apparatus to intimidate its citizens, most especially those who have mass support to change the status quo, Mrs Ayodele said in a statement sent to PREMIUM TIMES. Mrs Ayodele was the only female candidate that contested alongside Mr Adeleke, Governor Oyetola and others in the Osun governorship poll last September. She noted that the issue over which the senator was arrested was an issue of litigation and was prejudicial to arrest and arraign him over same offence. Mr Adeleke was arrested by the police on Monday and brought before a Magistrate Court in Abuja on Tuesday for alleged certificate forgery. He was granted bail by the court on health grounds after he pleaded not guilty to the charges leveled against him. According to the charges, the politician presented forged certificates to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in 2017. Illegal Mrs Ayodele argued that it was unknown to any of Nigeria law that an individual could stand trial on same offence in two different courts almost at the same time. The female politician also suggested that the trial might be connected with the ongoing litigation on Osun governorship election before the appeal court. She urged President Muhammadu Buhari to thread softly on the Osun political imbroglio, as the whole world is watching with keen interest, the ongoing political development in the country. Backstory Mr Adeleke, a member of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) was first arrested last September, a few days to the Osun governorship election, in which he won in the first ballot. His victory was however short-lived after the supplementary polls. The senator, representing Osun West district, was accused of writing WAEC with a fake identity to beef up his credentials, an allegation he strongly denied, claiming he had been a victim of vindictive politics of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). PREMIUM TIMES reported that a statement from his office Monday night said the principal of the school and WAEC swore affidavits while defending the senator against forgery or impersonation. The statement also said Mr Adelekes latest arrest was aimed at frustrating his case at the election petitions tribunal where he is challenging the outcome of the September 2018 governorship election. The tribunal declared him winner of the election in March, but the APCs incumbent governor, Mr Oyetola, appealed the ruling. One of the most popular and musically accurate Springsteen tribute acts you will see anywhere, The E Street Shuffle comes straight from Asbury Park to the Lizzie Rose Music Room in Tuckerton at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, May 11, for a one off performance in this intimate setting. The E Street Shuffle is a 7-piece band that has spent the last 13 years touring up and down the East Coast, sonically recreating the epic experience that one gets when attending a live concert from Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band. For this special show at the Lizzie Rose Music Room, the band will dig deep into the Boss massive catalog of songs, touching on some quieter tracks rarely performed by the band, as well as the classic sing-along rock anthems Springsteen is known for. The Lizzie Rose offers a listening experience that is unlike many others, where every seat gets you up close and personal with the performers. The Lizzie Rose Music Room is located at 217 E. Main St. in Tuckerton. Tickets are $25 in advance, $30 day of show. Go to LizzieRoseMusic.com to purchase tickets. Tickets can also be purchased at the door (cash only). For more info, go to TheEStreetShuffle.com. Get our Best Bets at the Jersey shore delivered to your inbox every Wednesday, just in time to plan your weekend! Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. I think it was a success on two fronts, one just realizing theyre not isolated in the issues that they face, but also writing a positive word just to give them hope to go through whatever theyre going through, Cochran said. He said students are more open now about mental health issues than they have been in the past. They are more receptive to being supportive and encouraging, Cochran said. We talk a lot about just giving an encouraging word to someone could really mean a lot to them. Ive seen and heard students do that. Amber Harris, the director of Oakcrests teen center, said the Message of Hope event was just one of the many ways the Greater Egg Harbor Regional High School District addresses mental health. This year, Oakcrest brought in a mindfulness instructor for students and are modeling ways teachers can approach the topic. I think its important not just to talk about the symptoms, but What do you do about it? Harris said, crediting principal James Reina for the school becoming very open-minded in the last few years. Silence doesnt work with this topic. The department introduced the leader of the Neighborhood Coordinating Officers, Lt. William Santiago, a 12-year veteran of the department. Atlantic City Citizens Advisory Board to host first public meeting Wednesday ATLANTIC CITY The resorts Citizens Advisory Board is scheduled to host its first public m Were taking it back to what it was back in the day, Santiago said. We knew those officers by name. You will know these officers by name. The plan calls for two veteran officers to be assigned to each of the citys six wards to help solve neighborhood issues, but also to become a part of the community by participating in neighborhood events, he said. Sadiq said police coming together with the community will be a beautiful thing but noted the new officers cannot be threatening to the community when they are called. We want to make sure as a community that none of the officers never been in a situation where they harmed a citizen, he said. Thats very important. That they never had a complaint against them, and they know how to talk to people. PLEASE BE ADVISED: Soon we will no longer integrate with Facebook for story comments. The commenting option is not going away, however, readers will need to register for a FREE site account to continue sharing their thoughts and feedback on stories. If you already have an account (i.e. current subscribers, posting in obituary guestbooks, for submitting community events), you may use that login, otherwise, you will be prompted to create a new account. Its bittersweet, said Henderson, who later moved to another motel in Egg Harbor Township, and then out of state. Im happy its being torn down but I have a lot of memories there. In the parking lot Thursday, city worker Tom Edwards manned an excavator that ripped apart the motels pink walls. A pile of mattresses, debris and one red, toy bike sat in a giant pile before Edwards used the construction equipment to lift it into a 100-cubic-yard truck headed for a landfill. The demolition permit was issued Wednesday, he said, and police checked the rooms to ensure no one was living inside. Ive been waiting ... and we got the call yesterday, said Edwards, who arrived at 8 a.m. The motel was set to be auctioned this week, but the sale was called off at the last minute. Dale Finch, the citys director of licensing and inspections, said the resort asked AC Auctions Realty auctioneer Robert Salvato and the owner, SomDev Real Estate, not to put the decrepit building up for public sale. A video that captured a fight inside the McDonalds on Arkansas Avenue in March racked up more than 1 million views on Facebook and sparked multiple online comments. They act like animals, so sad, Patricia Miller wrote about the scene in which several teens threw cups at staff and pepper sprayed a security guard. Comments also turned to the city itself. This is why AC is doomed. Tourists dont want to deal with this. Take your money to CT casinos, Al Ambro wrote. For Anthony Mack, who owns that McDonalds and one on Albany Avenue with his wife, the video is just a snapshot of his reality. Even before the fight broke out and the teens were charged with criminal mischief and disorderly conduct, Mack said his restaurant has become a hub for illicit behavior and unruly activity. Were just trying to keep our head above water, Mack said about his business, just steps away from shoppers at Tanger Outlets The Walk, and youve got to do that to make sure that the people that come here have a pleasant experience. The crime there isnt always violent. Still, Mack knows all too well that aggressive begging, theft and outbursts like the fight are what his customers remember. And, whether criminal or simply unpleasant, high-profile incidents such as the one depicted in the video leave residents and outsiders with the impression Atlantic City is unsafe. This is really not a bad area, but if we dont get our arms around it, were never going to be the best we can be, Mack said. Its a challenge Atlantic City as a whole shares. Law enforcement and other community stakeholders have to address the reality and complexities of urban crime. But they must also improve perception so the visitors they hope to attract and the residents they hope to keep feel safe. Crime is still not as low as local leaders and police would like, but data show total crime in the resort is a third of what it was in 2013. In 2018, police saw yet another round of sharp decreases nearly 30 percent for violent crime and almost 32 percent for nonviolent crime from the year before. So why is perception still struggling to keep up with reality? Louise Schwartz, 75, who has lived in the South Inlet for 2 years, had a friend in neighboring Ventnor say she was too afraid to visit her at the Bella Condos. I was insulted that she thought coming into Atlantic City, although she was less than a mile from my house ... was going to be a very dangerous place to visit, to walk down the street, she said. +7 Atlantic City crime rooted in addicted people, abandoned homes, residents say ATLANTIC CITY A bright yellow backhoe sat on top of five feet of rubble in the middle of K Some residents and visitors say the declining crime numbers dont reflect the deep-rooted issues they see in the city: poverty and a transient population in need of mental health and addiction treatment. A 2008 study published by Washington State University researchers looked at crime perception surveys from almost 3,000 eastern Washington state residents and found citizens did not differentiate between crime and disorder. Disorder was the primary focus of the influential 1982 article Broken Windows by social scientists George L. Kelling and James Q. Wilson, which focused on an overlooked source of fear the fear of being bothered by disorderly people. Not violent people, or even criminals, but those such as panhandlers, drunks, addicts, rowdy teenagers, loiterers or people with mental health struggles. Kelling and Wilson claimed leaving disorder unchecked whether its not fixing broken windows or not addressing unruly behavior could lead to increased fear and withdrawal from residents that consequently opens up their neighborhoods to crime. While this approach may help lessen fear, theres not clear evidence it helps reduce crime. In practice, broken windows policing in major cities such as New York has become synonymous with aggressive misdemeanor arrests and harassment, all while crime experts have found no compelling evidence it significantly reduces crime. Critics in follow-up studies cite one prominent flaw in applying the theory: Disorder doesnt look the same to everyone. Perceptions can be racially and culturally motivated. Atlantic City is preparing to put more officers on the street via a community policing initiative that would station veteran officers in neighborhoods to monitor trends. That same initiative would assign a task force to address homelessness and petty crime in the Tourism District. Police Capt. Rudy Lushina said during a meeting of the citys Boardwalk Committee on April 10 that officers will hand out business cards with their city-assigned cellphone number for residents to contact them. Our goal is to not frustrate the citizens, but give them the best help they can when they call one number, he said, adding its designed to do long-term problem-solving. The program will also look to partner with the citys social services, said Matt Doherty, executive director of the Casino Reinvestment and Development Authority, which is funding the program. But along with policing certain neighborhoods, residents are concerned about how they look. With more than 500 documented abandoned properties, parts of the city contain trash, unused space and decaying homes residents feel bring crime and illicit activity into their neighborhoods. This was a beautiful house, said Indra Owens, 37, pointing to boarded-up and abandoned homes on McKinley Avenue, the street where she grew up. I dont know why the people are abandoning properties. I know taxes are an issue, too, but the crime is off the hook dont nobody want to live here. Owens and her friend and fellow city resident Automne Bennett, 36, said they were skeptical of the citys crime data as they pointed out abandoned properties last month they said have become a breeding ground for crime and drug use. How much urban decay and how great of a sense of safety people feel are often linked. And while there are many properties that may make people feel unsafe, efforts to revitalize them can have big returns on perception. According to one study, researchers who tracked 5,112 abandoned buildings and vacant lots in Philadelphia from 1999 to 2013 found urban blight mediation programs to be cost-beneficial strategies that significantly reduce gun violence. Remediation of buildings reduced gun violence 39%, and vacant-lot remediation reduced it by 5%. Taxpayer and society returns were $5 and $79 for every dollar spent on abandoned building remediation, and $26 and $33 for every dollar spent on vacant-lot remediation. Recent additions of positive development like the citys Stockton University campus have brought renewed hope to many residents that the city will become what it should be a destination like Miami, Cape Cod or Marthas Vineyard but theres still work to be done. In order for Atlantic City to really, really change, we got to change the culture, Bennett said. Its a mindset shift. Staff Writers Molly Bilinski and Vincent Jackson contributed to this report. Be the first to know Get local news delivered to your inbox! Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Vincent Jackson Staff Writer Twenty years as a staff writer in the features department, specializing in entertainment and the arts at The Press of Atlantic City. Follow Vincent Jackson 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. Save Manage followed notifications Close Followed notifications Please log in to use this feature Log In Don't have an account? Sign Up Today Apple Pay is now available in Iceland for iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, and Mac users with launch support from Arion Banki and Landsbankinn. The two banks announced support for Apple's mobile payment solution on Wednesday via their official websites and Twitter. If you own an iPhone 6 or higher, you can add a credit/debit card from one of the two supported banks before you can start using Apple Pay. The mobile payment service is also going to be available for Apple Watch and owners of new Macs featuring Touch ID. International payment solutions company Valitor is said to have played a key role in bringing Apple Pay to the country, with Landsbankinn and Arion Banki among the first Icelandic banks to announce support for the digital wallet. Apple Pay launched in Iceland today! Iceland is country number thirty something to launch Apple Pay, while being around nr. 170 on the world population list. Valitor played a key role in bringing it to Iceland, showing how well regarded it is in the payhttps://t.co/OLsIxeztdw Reynir Egilsson (@ReynirEgilsson) May 8, 2019 As to which country will get the next Apple Pay rollout, it is currently a toss-up between The Netherlands and Portugal, where regional banks have teased that Apple's contactless payment system is "coming soon". Apple Pay first launched in the United States in October 2014 and is also available in the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, China, Hong Kong, Singapore, Belgium, Switzerland, France, Japan, Spain, Italy, Sweden, Finland, Denmark, Russia, New Zealand, Brazil, Poland, Ireland, Ukraine, and the United Arab Emirates. Apple Pay helped Apple hit an all-time Services record in its second quarter results, earning $11.5 billion. During the related financial earnings call, Apple CEO Tim Cook advised "Apple Pay is now available in 30 markets and we expect to be live in 40 markets by the end of the year", as well as confirming transaction volume has more than doubled year-on-year and that the company was on track to reach 10 billion Apple Pay transactions within the 2019 calendar year. Apple's self-imposed goal calls for bringing the service to 40 countries before year-end. The 40 new markets are highly likely to include the Netherlands, which was recently revealed to be gaining Apple Pay in the near future via an announcement from ING Bank. Apple Pay has also recently launched in Austria, and with launches in Estonia, Greece, Portugal, Slovakia, and Slovenia thought to be occurring very soon. Huawei has officially announced Huawei P Smart Z and this budget Android device is also the company's first phone with a popup Selfie camera. The handset is now available in Italy and the device will set you back 279, it will be launching in more European countries soon. According to Huawei, the 16-megapixel selfie camera automatically pops up in one second and goes away when you are done. To allay any durability concerns, Huawei claims that the P Smart Z's pop-up mechanism withstands up to 12kg (~26.5 pounds) of pressure and still works after 100,000 cycles. It also has a dual-lens rear camera with a 16MP f/1.8 main lens and a 2MP f/2.4 depth sensor. For specifications, the handset comes with a Kirin 710F mobile processor and 4GB of RAM. Thanks to the pop-up selfie camera, the P smart Z is the first Huawei smartphone to eschew any sort of notch or display cut-out. Instead, the phone features a large 6.59-inch LCD display with Full HD+ (2,340 x 1,080) resolution, so you are getting a pretty immersive and distraction-free screen. On the back, the Huawei P Smart Z gets a 3D curved panel with a very Pixel-like dual tone design. The top quarter of the panel is of a lighter tone compared to the rest of the panel. It comes in Midnight Black, Sapphire Blue, and Emerald Green color options. There is also 64GB of included storage and a microSD card slot for storage expansion up to 512GB. The handset comes with a 4000 mAh battery and supports a Type-C port, but there is no mention of fast charging. It also has a rear-mounted fingerprint scanner, and it runs Android 9 Pie overlaid with Huawei's EMUI 9 interface. So far the Huawei P Smart Z is only available in Spain and Italy, where stores are listing it for 279 (around $310) but we would not be surprised if the phone makes it to the UK. The US release though is very unlikely given Huawei's issues in the country. We will update this post if or when the phone makes its way to other regions. Source 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. The contract for the supply on which the conflict arose, was signed in September 2014. In March 2017, DMK did not fulfill its obligations vis-a vis ITO and did not supply steel products, for which advance payment was received at the beginning of 2017 in the amount of 37.991 million USD. The Supply Contract provided that all disputes concerning its implementation would be settled by the Arbitration Institute of the Stockholm Chamber of Commerce (SCC). In September 2018, an arbitral award was made in Stockholm, which found DMK and its guarantor the Industrial Union of Donbass Corporation (IUD) severally and jointly liable to pay ITO's debt under the Contract at a rate of approximately 48 million USD, which also includes interest and penalties sanctions. However, even before the ITO's filed a claim to the Arbitration Court in Stockholm in August 2017, DMK has concluded an alleged agency agreement (the "Agency Agreement") with PJSC 'Donetskkoks'. According to the Agency Agreement, Donetskkoks (not even being a supplier or manufacturer of products) would supposedly perform the obligations of DMK vis-a-vis ITO by virtue of the Supply Agreement. This move allowed Donetskkoks to file a counterclaim against DMK, arguing that the main Contract is invalid. Since Donetskkoks was not the party to which this Contract was concluded, DMK and Donetskkoks ignored the arbitration clause and initiated the proceedings in the Ukrainian court. The court of the first instance in Ukraine fully satisfied the demands of DMK in their claim that the Contract is invalid disregarding a valid arbitration clause. The decision of the court of first instance ignored as well many procedural violations that were made towards the Lebanese company in the trial, such as its right of defense, which forced the Lebanese Company to initiate a complaint against the judge before the High Council of Justice. Finally after 17 months of consideration, at the hearing on April 19, 2019, the Eastern Economic Court of Appeal located in Kharkiv sustained the ITO's appeal in the case and cancelled the decision of the court of first instance declaring the Supply Contract invalid, thus rendering the binding decision in favour of ITO. The decision became effective immediately upon announcement. This statement is based on information in public domain as regards entities and persons mentioned immediately above, as well as on (i) the published court rulings and decisions in cases No. 824/239/18, 905/2247/17, and 905/2550/17; and (ii) information disclosed in the course of the court hearings in the said cases. (Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/883961/International_Transit_SAL_Offshore_ITO.jpg) SOURCE International Transit S.A.L. Offshore (ITO) As an important milestone of "Olive Oil World Tour", the promotional campaign with the theme of "Olive Oil Makes a Tastier World" this year will demonstrate the features and diversity of Olive Oils from Spain as well as its versatility in Chinese cuisine through a variety of the BTL demonstration events. For the initial activation of this second year, Mr. Hu Yuanjun, a famous chef, culinary expert and gourmet columnist in China, was invited to lead a live demonstration of cooking Chinese dishes with Olive Oils from Spain, which showed the perfect combination of olive oil and Chinese cuisine. "Olive oil is the best and healthiest cooking oil, 100% fresh fruit juice, versatile and with several healthy benefits which can be cooked at high temperatures with different cooking methods frying, deep-frying, cooking, boiling, etc. Moreover, olive oil has its unique fruity flavor, which helps to enhance the flavor of ingredients and make the dishes more delicious, so it is ideal for Chinese cooking," said Mr. Hu Yuanjun. This year, the objective of 'Olive Oil World Tour' is to continue reaching new consumers; for this, a strategy has been proposed that will include, as it was already done in 2018, an action with final consumers. In December, a particularly active month for international travelers, the Olive Oils of Spain will land in one of the main international airports in the country, Guanzhou Baiyun to bring travelers the culture of olive oils. Around 70% of the oil that is produced in the world is born in European olive groves, which occupy 55% of the world's surface dedicated to this crop, with just over 6 million hectares, of the 11 million spread over the five continents. In the European olive grove Spain stands out as the first power. (Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/884355/Olive_Oils_from_Spain_Shanghai.jpg) SOURCE Olive Oils from Spain Slovenia is a Central European and Mediterranean country situated at the heart of the Alpine, Adriatic and Danube regions, and at the junction of Western and South Eastern Europe. It is a country that advanced its economy by engaging in the most rapid industrialization among the former Yugoslavian countries. Slovenia is a member state of the European Union and NATO, as well as Eurozone and Schengen Area. Since the establishment of the diplomatic relations in 1992, Korea and Slovenia have been strengthening friendly bilateral relations. The Halla Group Chairman Mong-won Chung was confirmed by the Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs as Honorary Consul of the Republic of Slovenia in Seoul on February 19. He has been continuously working as a private-sector diplomat. The chairman said that he is "honored to be appointed as Honorary Consul of Slovenia in Seoul, as Slovenia is the country linking Asia and Europe and has immense potential." He also said that he will "serve responsibly as a link between the two countries, which have had friendly relations for long twenty-seven years." The Consulate of the Republic of Slovenia in Seoul provides information about the rights of the Slovenian people and companies in Korea. In addition, the institution provides information about opening businesses in Slovenia, as well as the country's culture, science, and sports, to Korean companies and individuals who are interested. With the opening of the Consulate of the Republic of Slovenia in Seoul, Halla Group plans to lead the effort to promote the friendly relationship, economic cooperation, and cultural exchange between Korea and Slovenia. The Consulate is located in the Halla Group corporate headquarters, on the tenth floor of Sigma Tower in Jamsil, Seoul. Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/882910/Halla_Group_opening_ceremony.jpg SOURCE Halla Group SAN MATEO, Calif. and HANGZHOU, China and SHAOXING, China, April 30, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- 3-V Biosciences, Inc. (3-V Biosciences) and Ascletis Pharma Inc. (Ascletis, 1672.HK) announced today that 3-V Biosciences has recently dosed its first patient in a Phase 2 clinical trial of the FASN (fatty acid synthase) inhibitor TVB-2640 (Ascletis code: ASC40) in patients with non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). According to Rohit Loomba, MD, University of California San Diego, Director, NAFLD Research Center, and Coordinating Investigator of the now enrolling Phase 2 study of TVB-2640, "Lipid synthesis is an important driver of NASH. The imaging techniques in this study will give us a very clear understanding of the impact this drug has on liver fat, a key driver of this disease." In this randomized, placebo-controlled study, investigators will evaluate the impact of TVB-2640 in about 90 NASH patients in the United States and about 25-30 NASH patients in China. Study participants will have at least 8% liver fat at baseline, as measured by magnetic resonance imaging-estimated proton density fat fraction (MRI-PDFF), and evidence of stage F1 to F3 fibrosis. The primary endpoint is the impact of TVB-2640 on liver fat reduction, compared to baseline, following 12 weeks of daily, continuous dosing. Investigators will also evaluate TVB-2640's impact on levels of plasma triglycerides, liver enzymes, inflammatory and fibrotic biomarkers. In February 2019, 3-V Biosciences and Ascletis entered into an exclusive license agreement, under which 3-V Biosciences granted Ascletis an exclusive license to develop, manufacture and commercialize TVB-2640 (Ascletis code: ASC40) and related compounds in Greater China. In connection with this Phase 2 trial, Ascletis is working with 3-V Biosciences in China on regulatory submissions, clinical site selection, and trial monitoring. "The initiation of our Phase 2 clinical trial is a very important advance for TVB-2640 and for 3-V Biosciences. We are very encouraged by the data from the Phase 1 studies and this next step is critical in determining the impact TVB-2640 may have in the treatment of NASH patients," said William McCulloch, MB, ChB, FRCP, FFPM, Chief Medical Officer of 3-V Biosciences. "We are excited about the first patient dosed in this Phase 2 trial and working with 3-V Biosciences in China to move this first-in-class drug candidate forward," said Jinzi J. Wu, PhD, Founder, Chairman and CEO of Ascletis. About TVB-2640 (ASC40) TVB-2640 is an orally bioavailable, first-in-class inhibitor of FASN. FASN is a key enzyme in the de novo lipogenesis (DNL) pathway that is responsible for the synthesis of excess fat in the liver of patients with NASH. 3-V's approach targets this key driver of NASH. The company demonstrated in a Phase 1 trial that TVB-2640 inhibited liver fat synthesis in subjects with characteristics of metabolic syndrome. The 3-V team believes these data provide clinical proof-of-mechanism for TVB-2640. Dysregulation of FASN activity is also found in several other diseases, including certain cancers where cells become dependent upon DNL. About 3-V Biosciences 3V-Biosciences is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing novel therapeutics for the treatment of a range of diseases including the liver disease NASH and certain cancers, with focus on targeting dysfunctional metabolic pathways. 3-V Biosciences has unique expertise in FASN biology and believes that targeting FASN provides an intervention point for clinical benefit. For more information, please visit www.3vbio.com. About Ascletis Ascletis is an innovative R&D driven biotech with two commercial products and listed on Hong Kong Stock Exchange (Ascletis, 1672.HK). Ascletis' mission is to address unmet medical needs in three therapeutic areas: viral, cancer and fatty liver diseases. Led by a management team with deep expertise and a proven track record, Ascletis has developed a fully integrated platform covering the entire value chain from discovery and development to manufacturing and commercialization. Ascletis is now commercializing two drugs, Ganovo (danoprevir), the first direct-acting anti-viral agent for hepatitis C developed domestically for China, and Pegasys (peginterferon alfa-2a), a well-established pegylated interferon for hepatitis B&C partnered with Roche. Ascletis' R&D pipeline consists of antibody-based immunotherapy, first/best-in-class small molecules and siRNA at various clinical development stages. For more information, please visit www.ascletis.com. SOURCE 3-V Biosciences, Inc. Related Links http://www.3vbio.com This news release contains forward-looking statements. For a description of the related risk factors and assumptions, please see the section entitled "Caution Concerning Forward-Looking Statements" later in this release. MONTREAL, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ - Bell Canada (Bell) (TSX: BCE) (NYSE: BCE) today announced the public offering in the United States (the US Offering) of US$600 million aggregate principal amount of 4.30% Series US-2 Notes due 2049 (the Notes). The Notes were priced at US$99.802 per US$100 principal amount for a yield to maturity of 4.311% and will mature on July 29, 2049. The Notes are being publicly offered in the United States through a syndicate of underwriters. Closing of the offering of the Notes is expected to occur on May 13, 2019, subject to customary closing conditions. The Notes will be fully and unconditionally guaranteed by BCE Inc. Bell also announced today the public offering in Canada of Cdn$600 million aggregate principal amount of MTN Debentures pursuant to its medium term notes (MTN) program (the Canadian Offering). The Cdn$600 million 2.75% MTN Debentures, Series M-49, will be dated May 13, 2019, will mature on January 29, 2025, and will be issued at a price of Cdn$99.795 per $100 principal amount for a yield to maturity of 2.788%. The MTN Debentures are being publicly offered in all provinces of Canada through a syndicate of agents. Closing of the offering of the MTN Debentures is expected to occur on May 13, 2019, subject to customary closing conditions. The MTN Debentures will be fully and unconditionally guaranteed by BCE Inc. Bell plans to apply the net proceeds from the US Offering and the Canadian Offering to the redemption of its Cdn$1,000,000,000 principal amount of 3.25% Debentures, Series M-27, due June 17, 2020 and to the redemption of its Cdn$400,000,000 principal amount of 3.54% Debentures, Series M37, due June 12, 2020. The closing of the US Offering and the Canadian Offering are not conditioned on each other. The US Offering is being made in the United States pursuant to a prospectus supplement to Bell's short form base shelf prospectus dated March 20, 2018 filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission as part of an effective shelf registration statement on Form F-10. The Notes are not being offered in Canada or to any resident of Canada. The MTN Debentures have not been and will not be registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (U.S. Securities Act), or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold in the United States or to or for the account or benefit of U.S. persons (as defined in Regulation S under the U.S. Securities Act). The MTN Debentures are being issued pursuant to a short form base shelf prospectus dated March 20, 2018 and a prospectus supplement dated June 19, 2018. Bell will file a pricing supplement relating to this issue with the securities regulatory authorities in all provinces of Canada. This news release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities, nor will there be any sale of these securities, in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such jurisdiction. Copies of the short form base shelf prospectus and the prospectus supplements relating to the offering of the Canadian MTN Debentures and the US Notes filed with securities regulatory authorities in Canada and the United States, respectively, may be obtained from the Investor Relations department of Bell Canada at Building A, 8th floor, 1 Carrefour Alexander-Graham-Bell, Verdun, Quebec, H3E 3B3 (telephone 1-800-339-6353). Copies of these documents are also available electronically, as applicable, on the System for Electronic Document Analysis and Retrieval of the Canadian Securities Administrators (SEDAR), at www.sedar.com, or on the Electronic Data Gathering, Analysis, and Retrieval system, administered by the US Securities and Exchange Commission (EDGAR) at www.sec.gov. Caution Concerning Forward-Looking Statements Certain statements made in this news release constitute forward-looking statements under Canadian securities laws and within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including, but not limited to, statements relating to the expected timing and completion of the proposed sale of Notes and proposed sale of MTN Debentures, the intended use of the net proceeds of such sales and other statements that are not historical facts. Forward-looking statements, by their very nature, are subject to inherent risks and uncertainties and are based on several assumptions, both general and specific, which give rise to the possibility that actual results or events could differ materially from our expectations expressed in or implied by such forward-looking statements. These statements are not guarantees of future performance or events and we caution you against relying on any of these forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements contained in this news release describe our expectations at the date of this news release and, accordingly, are subject to change after such date. Except as may be required by applicable securities laws, we do not undertake any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements contained in this news release, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Forward-looking statements are provided herein for the purpose of giving information about the proposed offerings referred to above. Readers are cautioned that such information may not be appropriate for other purposes. The timing and completion of the abovementioned proposed sales of the Notes and the MTN Debentures is subject to customary closing terms and other risks and uncertainties. Accordingly, there can be no assurance that the proposed sale of the Notes and/or the proposed sale of the MTN Debentures will occur, or that it will occur at the expected time indicated in this news release. About Bell Bell is Canada's largest communications company, providing advanced broadband wireless, TV, Internet and business communication services throughout the country. Bell Media is Canada's premier content creation company with leading assets in television, radio, out of home and digital media. Founded in Montreal in 1880, Bell is wholly owned by BCE Inc. To learn more, please visit Bell.ca or BCE.ca . The Bell Let's Talk initiative promotes Canadian mental health with national awareness and anti-stigma campaigns like Bell Let's Talk Day and significant Bell funding of mental health care and access, research and workplace leadership initiatives. To learn more, please visit Bell.ca/LetsTalk . SOURCE Bell Canada Related Links www.bell.ca TORONTO, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- In a major attempt to combat climate change, Belnor Engineering has proudly installed Canada's first transparent photovoltaic solar window at the Centre for Innovation, Technology & Entrepreneurship (CITE Facility) Seneca College's Newnham Campus in Toronto, ON. The cutting-edge facility is designed to bring applied research, specialized training and entrepreneurial activities all under one roof. In an effort to bolster their sustainability initiatives, the institution decided to be the first to incorporate Onyx Solar amorphous silicon (a-Si) technology into CITE's building envelope. Also known as a curtain-wall, this large window of 20% transparency comprises of 18 photovoltaic glass panels totaling an area of 47.4 square meters (510 square feet). The total peak power generated from this kind of installation amounts to 1.3 Kilowatts. When analyzing the installation's technical specs, the Insulated Glass Unit (IGU) Construction ratio is 6mm T + 3.2mm PV + 12MM Argon Chamber + 6mm T with Low-E Coating. All in all, this installation's multifunctional bioclimatic properties will help the facility to offset some of the HVAC and operational energy costs by generating clean, free power for the building, while providing an abundance of natural illumination, filtering out both UV and IR radiation, and providing both thermal and acoustic insulation for the building while reducing greenhouse gas emissions, thereby, shrinking the structure's carbon footprint. Since construction began in 2016, the $85-million project that's financially supported by the federal and provincial governments and designed by Perkins + Will Architects Canada has come a long way. The installation was completed in December 2018 and has been approved by UL Canada and the Local Electrical Safety Authority (ESA). Some of Belnor Engineering's major site installations currently underway and soon due for completion include the national Canadian Science & Technology Museum in Ottawa, ON, the North York Civic Centre in Toronto, ON, the Block 31 Development in Toronto, ON, and Enexpro in Montreal, QC. For 30+ years, Belnor Engineering is a Toronto-based engineering firm that offers HVAC, lab & building automation, and renewable energy products, solutions, and services to all major universities, hospitals, institutions, buildings, and companies. Onyx Solar BIPV 100% customizable glass solutions are available in a variety of colours, shapes, sizes, and transparencies, and can be installed at various orientations and tilts to suit your project's needs Leading companies have chosen Onyx Solar PV glass for their projects for acclaimed final customers such as Apple Inc, Samsung, Novartis, and Pfizer. Contact: Belnor Engineering Inc Innovative Controls & Renewable Energy Solutions 2355 Derry Road East, Unit 50 Mississauga, ON, L5S 1V6, CANADA Website: www.belnor.com Email: [email protected] Phone: 905 264 6372 Facebook Twitter Instagram LinkedIn Pinterest Youtube #TheBelnorBlog SustainabilityX Magazine Media Contact: Supriya Verma (PR Director) Belnor Engineering Inc [email protected] Photo(s): https://www.prlog.org/12768695 Press release distributed by PRLog SOURCE Belnor Engineering Related Links https://www.belnor.com/ STOCKHOLM, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- DigiPlex continues to invest in the Nordic region and has acquired several key sales profiles in Sweden, Norway and Denmark. On March 1, Anders E. Hansen started as new sales director in Denmark. The addition is part of DigiPlex's clear ambition to become the market leader also in Denmark, thereby further consolidating its leading position in the Nordic region. DigiPlex established its operations in Denmark in May 2018 through a data centre in central Copenhagen. The recruitment of Anders E. Hansen as sales director in Denmark is thus an important part of the continued expansion. "One component of DigiPlex's success is to work very close to the market and from each customer's specific needs. Now we are taking the next step to meet customers in Denmark with full force. We have an explicit growth target and we work actively to establish additional data centers in Denmark," says Gisle M. Eckhoff, CEO of DigiPlex. Anders E. Hansen started at DigiPlex on March 1 and most recently comes from a role as Network & Security Business Manager at Ezenta, and before that he held several senior sales positions at, among other things, startup company Zibrawireless, Teracom and TDC in Denmark. Recently, two other key sales people have joined DigiPlex: Rickard Hilmersson, Nordic Sales Manager with placement in Sweden , former Equinix and TelecityGroup , former Equinix and TelecityGroup Joachim Kauppi , International Sales Director with placement in Norway , former Equinix and TelecityGroup. "We are very pleased to have succeeded in recruiting these strong employees. We are now even more offensive in the market and offer more customers leading data centre solutions in innovation, sustainability and security in the Nordic region. It is also strong testimony that we are an attractive employer," says Gisle M. Eckhoff. DigiPlex has always set the goal of being the most attractive brand in data centers, not only with our customers but also with our employees and potential employees. We are also the Nordic region's leading brand and certified A Great Place To Work," concludes Gisle M. Eckhoff. More news from DigiPlex Connect with DigiPlex CONTACT: Elisabeth Lennhede Head of Communications +46703322705 [email protected] This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com https://news.cision.com/digiplex/r/digiplex-expands-its-sales-team-in-denmark--norway-and-sweden,c2807163 The following files are available for download: https://mb.cision.com/Main/7526/2807163/1040331.pdf DigiPlex Expands its Sales Team in Denmark, Norway and Sweden https://news.cision.com/digiplex/i/anders-e-hansen,c2621983 Anders E Hansen https://news.cision.com/digiplex/i/rickard-hilmersson,c2621982 Rickard Hilmersson https://news.cision.com/digiplex/i/joachim-kauppi,c2621984 Joachim Kauppi https://news.cision.com/digiplex/i/gisle-m-eckhoff-ceo-digiplex,c2621981 Gisle M Eckhoff CEO DigiPlex SOURCE DigiPlex BOSTON, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Edenbridge Health announced today that industry leader Tom Reiter will join the company as Executive Vice President for PACE Operations. Reiter will lead the launch and expansion of Edenbridge Health's Program of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) operations across multiple markets. Reiter is a well-known leader in the PACE community, with nearly 20 years of experience. Most recently, he led the development of the Gary and Mary West PACE of Northern San Diego. Prior to that role, he served as President and CEO of Rocky Mountain Health Care Services (RMHCS), where he expanded its PACE program from a census of 143 to 500, oversaw a major facility expansion, and developed a transportation LLC to serve PACE and other community programs. Prior to RMHCS, Tom was Executive Director of the Elder Service Plan PACE program in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Reiter serves on the board of directors of the National PACE Association and as faculty for the PACE 2.0 initiative (funded by the Gary and Mary West Foundation and the John A. Hartford Foundation), focused on exponential growth of the model. Among his first initiatives, Tom will integrate the Edenbridge model into the design and development of PACE centers in the Midwest and elsewhere. "We are honored to have Tom join our team," said Edenbridge co-founder and CEO, Stephen Gordon, MD, MBA. "Tom's expertise in growing and scaling PACE, combined with his compassion for serving frail older adults, will be key to realizing our vision to bring PACE to more people and to grow beyond the traditional model to serve new populations." "I'm excited to be a part of this innovative, mission-oriented organization," said Reiter. "Edenbridge Health has a creative approach to the PACE model, and I look forward to joining the team working to bring new ideas and energy to the community serving the frail elderly." Edenbridge Health is a mission-focused organization founded in 2016 by seasoned geriatricians. Its programs enable frail elderly to comfortably age in place by providing comprehensive, integrated, community-based, and person-centered care. Going beyond traditional PACE, the Edenbridge Health model is informed by conversations with scores of practitioners, researchers, policymakers, and thought leaders. Its approach combines geriatric expertise with business savvy to address barriers that have limited the growth and availability of traditional PACE programs. For more information, visit www.edenbridgehealth.org . SOURCE Edenbridge Health Related Links http://www.edenbridgehealth.org PORTLAND, Oregon, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Allied Market Research published a report, titled, "Fetal Bovine Serum Market by Application (Biopharmaceuticals, Cell Culture, Human & Animal Vaccine Production, and Others) and End User (Biotechnology & Pharmaceutical Company, Academic Institute, and Research Laboratory): Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 20182025." According to the report, the global fetal bovine serum market garnered $695 million in 2017, and is expected to generate $1.03 billion by 2025, registering a CAGR of 5.1 % from 2018 to 2025. Increase in R&D activities for producing novel biopharmaceuticals along with the expansion of biopharmaceutical industry drives the global fetal bovine serum market growth. Moreover, rise in investments and funding for research activities in developed and developing countries supplement the market growth. However, ethical & scientific issues related to the misuse of biotechnology research practices and scarcity of skilled personnel hinder the growth in the market. Contrarily, untapped potential in emerging geographies would offer new opportunities in the near future. Request Sample Report at: https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/request-sample/5261 Cell culture segment to continue its leadership in terms of revenue by 2025 Based on application, the cell culture segment contributed for nearly two-fifths of the total market share, and is estimated to continue its leadership in terms of revenue during the forecast period. This is due to surge in government funding and increase in R&D activities. However, the biopharmaceuticals segment is expected to grow at the highest CAGR of 5.9% from 2018 to 2025, owing to rise in biotechnology research for the development of human & animal vaccines. Biotechnology and pharmaceutical company segment to be lucrative Based on end user, the biotechnology and pharmaceutical company segment accounted for nearly half of the total market share in 2017, and is expected to maintain its dominance during the forecast period. Moreover, it is expected to register the highest growth rate, with a CAGR of 5.5% from 2018 to 2025. It is a lucrative segment, owing to increase in research activities related to biotechnology by the key players along with rise in small scale players. The research also analyzes academic institutes and research institutes. North America to its dominance in terms of revenue by 2025 North America accounted for more than two-fifths of the total market share in 2017, and will maintain its dominance in terms of revenue by 2025. This is due to the well-established companies related to biotechnology research and presence of well-equipped research laboratories. On the other hand, Asia-Pacific is estimated to grow at the largest CAGR of 6.3% during the forecast period. This is attributed to penetration of leading biotech companies including Bio-Rad, Thermo Fischer, and others in the region and surge in government initiatives for biotech research. For Purchase Enquiry at: https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/purchase-enquiry/5261 Frontrunners of the industry Leading market players analyzed in the research include GE Healthcare, HiMedia Laboratories Pvt., Ltd., Merck KGaA (Sigma Aldrich), Biowest, Bio-Techne, Atlas Biologicals, Biological Industries, PAN-Biotech, Rocky Mountain Biologicals, and Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. Access KNOWLEDGE TREE (Premium on-demand, subscription-based pricing model) at: https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/knowledgetree Knowledge tree is a cloud-based intelligence platform that offers more than 2,000 selective, off-the-shelf reports on niche markets to enable our clients gain deep insights on the latest trends, dynamic technologies, and emerging application areas. Similar Reports: Animal Vaccines Market - Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2018 2025 Biotechnology Media, Sera and Reagents Market - Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2018 2025 About Us Allied Market Research (AMR) is a full-service market research and business-consulting wing of Allied Analytics LLP based in Portland, Oregon. Allied Market Research provides global enterprises as well as medium and small businesses with unmatched quality of "Market Research Reports" and "Business Intelligence Solutions." AMR has a targeted view to provide business insights and consulting to assist its clients to make strategic business decisions and achieve sustainable growth in their respective market domain. We are in professional corporate relations with various companies and this helps us in digging out market data that helps us generate accurate research data tables and confirms utmost accuracy in our market forecasting. Each and every data presented in the reports published by us is extracted through primary interviews with top officials from leading companies of domain concerned. Our secondary data procurement methodology includes deep online and offline research and discussion with knowledgeable professionals and analysts in the industry. Contact: David Correa 5933 NE Win Sivers Drive #205, Portland, OR 97220 United States USA/Canada (Toll Free): +1-800-792-5285, +1-503-894-6022, +1-503-446-1141 UK: +44-845-528-1300 Hong Kong: +852-301-84916 India (Pune): +91-20-66346060 Fax: +1(855)550-5975 [email protected] Web: https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com SOURCE Allied Market Research PHOENIX, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- At a press conference held May 8 at the Arizona State Capitol, Governor Doug Ducey announced that The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation has issued a grant for up to $3.6M to The 100 Club of Arizona. The funds will help further the organization's mission of supporting first responders and their families who have experienced trauma and loss in the line of duty. "Our first responders put their physical and mental health at risk every day," said businessman Bob Parsons. "This grant will not only help them heal from catastrophic injuries and illnesses, but will provide additional support for those coping with PTSD and other challenges." Specifically, the grant will provide additional funding over a three-year period to the following 100 Club of Arizona programs: The Safety Enhancement Stipend This program allows public safety agencies statewide to apply for financial assistance to purchase equipment and supplies that further the safety of their members. This program allows public safety agencies statewide to apply for financial assistance to purchase equipment and supplies that further the safety of their members. Peer 100 The Peer 100 Program connects first responders with mental health and wellness services, specifically for coping with PTSD and other hazards of the job. The Peer 100 Program connects first responders with mental health and wellness services, specifically for coping with PTSD and other hazards of the job. H.E.R.O.S. Program When first responders encounter a life-altering situation, such as cancer, a terminal illness or death, The 100 Club of Arizona steps in to offer financial support. When first responders encounter a life-altering situation, such as cancer, a terminal illness or death, The 100 Club of steps in to offer financial support. The grant will also help The 100 Club of Arizona establish The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation Assistance Fund The money from this program will provide additional and much needed assistance to officers and firefighters who experience a catastrophic injury in the line of duty. "The men and women who serve our community each day deserve our respect and support," said Renee Parsons. "Bob and I are proud to partner with the 100 Club to offer increased safety equipment, mental health services and financial aid to first responders and their families." Established in 1986, The 100 Club of Arizona provides much needed support to public safety agencies, their members and families statewide. Today, services have expanded beyond financial assistance to include funding for enhanced safety equipment, confidential mental health services and scholarships. "This donation from The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation is nothing short of extraordinary," said Angela Harrolle, CEO and President of The 100 Club. "Their support and generous financial contribution will make a significant difference in the lives of Arizona's first responders and their families. We are filled with gratitude." To learn more about the 100 Club or how you can get involved, visit 100club.org. About The 100 Club of Arizona For more than 50 years, the 100 Club of Arizona has provided financial assistance, safety, and welfare support to first responders and the families of first responders who are seriously injured or killed in the line of duty. The 100 Club of Arizona supports all city, county, state, federal and tribal public safety agencies, fire services, probation, corrections, parole and law enforcement departments who provide for the safety of the citizens of Arizona. About The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation offers support to nonprofit organizations successfully working to empower, educate, nurture and nourish people during what is often the darkest time of their lives. Founded in 2012 by philanthropists and business leaders Bob and Renee Parsons to provide hope and life-changing assistance to the country's most vulnerable populations, The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation offers critical funding at critical times to those in need. The Foundation's giving is driven by the core belief that all people regardless of race, religion, roots, economic status, sexual orientation or gender identity deserve access to quality healthcare, education and a safe place to call home. Follow @WeDealInHope on social media or visit TBRPF.org, to learn more about partner organizations and the important work being done in the community. SOURCE The 100 Club of Arizona Related Links http://www.100club.org SAN FRANCISCO, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Hyperledger, an open source collaborative effort created to advance cross-industry blockchain technologies, today announced 10 more organizations have joined its growing global community. These new members join just as the Hyperledger portfolio of production-ready projects doubles and Forbes documents the scope of Hyperledger deployments in leading global businesses. Hyperledger is a multi-venture, multi-stakeholder effort hosted at the Linux Foundation that includes various enterprise blockchain and distributed ledger technologies. According to the recent Forbes Blockchain 50 list , over half of the biggest companies deploying blockchain are doing so on a Hyperledger platform. And now two more projects, Hyperledger Indy and Hyperleger Iroha , have hit development milestones that make them production ready. "As the Forbes 50 shows, blockchain technologies and, specifically Hyperledger projects, are now having real-world impact," said Brian Behlendorf, Executive Director, Hyperledger. "With four production-ready frameworks and 270 members working to develop and deploy Hyperledger technologies around the world, the rate of adoption and the rise of production systems will only accelerate. Our newest members will further fuel this growing community, deployment and development momentum." Hyperledger allows organizations to create solid, industry-specific applications, platforms and hardware systems to support their individual business transactions by offering enterprise-grade, open source distributed ledger frameworks and code bases. The latest general members to join the community are Consensus Datatrust Technology Co., Ltd., FRST Corp., Fusion Tech+, Hedera Hashgraph LLC, INBLOCK Ltd, RealMarket and Xilinx, Inc. Hyperledger supports an open community that values contributions and participation from various entities. As such, pre-approved non-profits, open source projects and government entities can join Hyperledger at no cost as associate members. Associate members joining this month include Arizona State University, Portland State University and University College London. New member quotes: Consensus Datatrust Technology Co., Ltd "It is a great honor to join and be a member of Hyperledger," said Maolu Wang, Chairman, Consensus Datatrust. "As a revolutionary new technology, blockchain has shown great potential in the field of B terminal. We understand that the solution of digital letter integrates blockchain and big data. We believe that blockchain technology can be used as a link for multi-party data sharing to solve previous business problems by technical means. As a member of Hyperledger, we will provide strong technology promotion and product promotion support, and we look forward to making continuous contributions to the community." FRST Corp "The open source dev ecosystem has a tradition of testing assumptions, trying new things, and building important, evolving codebases. FRST is excited to join the Hyperledger community, and we believe participation will advance our work as a data-driven, blockchain-native enterprise analytics company," said Karl T. Muth, CEO of FRST. "We can't wait to share our questions and ideas with this community." Fusion Tech+ "We are very happy to join Hyperledger and look forward to collaborating with the community to provide innovative solutions for our partners and customers," said Yang Lu, CTO of Fusion Tech+. "Fusion Tech+ is a smart technology company under Fusion Group. Relying on the strong strategic layout of the IoT, Fusion Tech+ puts forward the concept of Tech+ for enabling innovation and an integrated service platform called 'Fusionfintrade,' which deeply integrates technology, finance and scenarios to create a mutual enabling ecosystem. Our platform supports many scenarios and, as we develop it, we will also be actively contributing to the Hyperledger ecosystem and working with the other members to promote the development of technology and industry." Hedera Hashgraph "We are excited to join the Hyperledger community, which comprises some of the most forward-looking organizations working on distributed ledger technology," said Mance Harmon, CEO of Hedera Hashgraph. "We know enterprises have been exploring DLT use cases with Hyperledger technology. Hedera provides an enterprise-grade public network that complements those existing and future projects." INBLOCK Ltd "It's been a long-time goal for us to join the Linux Foundation and Hyperledger," said Jay Baek, vice president at INBLOCK. "Since the introduction of Mainnet last year, we've been cooperating with leading experts and allies in the blockchain industry to develop and improve the global business value. While our focus in on digital assets, we see that blockchain has the potential to revolutionize all industries, and we hope to contribute to the technology's wide, real world impact." RealMarket "RealMarket is a FinTech/RegTech company producing innovative alternative finance solutions using enterprise blockchain, machine learning, and big data. Our ultimate vision is a fully programmable economy powering groundbreaking and sustainable development worldwide," said Dr. Dusan Gajic, CEO of RealMarket. "Thus, it is natural for us to join Hyperledger and the Linux Foundation, and we are both proud and excited to do so. Hyperledger is vital to our efforts as its suite of technologies ensures that the store of business-vital data and the rules governing their transformation are securely distributed. It is our aim to help develop Hyperledger further as we build an innovative platform combining equity crowdfunding, a private equity secondary market, cap table management, and corporate governance automation. All of this is only possible because Hyperledger Fabric is at the core of our system." About Hyperledger Hyperledger is an open source collaborative effort created to advance cross-industry blockchain technologies. It is a global collaboration including leaders in finance, banking, Internet of Things, supply chains, manufacturing and Technology. The Linux Foundation hosts Hyperledger under the foundation. To learn more, visit: https://www.hyperledger.org/. Contact: Emily Fisher Linux Foundation/Hyperledger [email protected] SOURCE Hyperledger ODESSA, Ukraine, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- A new messaging app called Pinngle Messenger has launched internationally with a mission to change the way people connect. Initially founded in 2016, Pinngle has over three million users. The app has a strong user base in the Middle East and Southeast Asia, and is growing in popularity in the US, Canada, and Italy. With offices in different countries, Pinngle has a multinational team which they claim enables them to collaborate to find creative solutions for challenges in the telecommunications sector. Pinngle Messenger has entered the market as a secure messaging and calling app. Pinngle Messenger is focused on global accessibility. The messaging app's main aim is to "build a better connected world" by offering high quality voice and video calls, global accessibility, and security. "No matter who we are or where we live, communication should be free and accessible to everyone. That principle is at the core of our company's beliefs, which is why we are working to offer accessibility for as many places and mobile devices as possible," says Ara Ohanian, the CMO of Pinngle. The company's culture and vision is built on five values: 1.) People come first, 2.) A borderless world is a better world, 3.) Communication is essential, 4.) Be fearless and authentic, and 5.) Do more with less. Pinngle Messenger is one of the few apps that is accessible in countries with heavy internet censorship. The app claims to have an anti-blocking technology with which it can easily overcome call blocking in countries where online calling is restricted. Pinngle Messenger strongly believes in protecting their users' right to privacy. With its end-to-end data encryption and a serverless architecture, the messenger can never store or sell user data to state agencies or other third parties. Pinngle offers Public Channels through which users can discover content shared by influencers, celebrities, and their peers. Channel owners can also choose to allow their followers to contact them directly through private message or voice call. Apart from channels, Pinngle offers other practical features such as virtual numbers, Pinngle-out calls, and offline calling. Pinngle Messenger is available for download on the App Store and Google Play , with desktop versions available on Mac, Windows, and Linux. About Pinngle is a secure messaging app that supports free messaging and high-quality voice and video calls. Created in 2016 by a team of multinationals, Pinngle's focus is on security and global accessibility. The app has over three million users, with a strong user base in the Middle East and East Asia, and increasing popularity in the US, Canada, and Italy. Pinngle is striving to be the most dependable messenger service worldwide. Video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y6JdXges4U0 Contact: Ara Ohanian Chief Marketing Officer [email protected] Ph: +37495488758 https://pinngle.me/ SOURCE Pinngle CJSC Related Links https://pinngle.me Organised by Informa Markets and founded in 2012, JNA Awards is not only dedicated to recognising and celebrating best business practices and innovations in the jewellery and gemstone trade, but also advocates sustainable development and upholds corporate social responsibility. Supporting Aimier's theatre project is the first of JNA Awards' initiatives for supporting underprivileged and underserved groups. Hunan Aimier was founded in 1999 as the first professional social service organisation in Hunan, China. It currently runs seven centres that cover the provinces of Hunan, Hubei and Jiangxi. Hunan Aimier, whose ultimate goal is to build an inclusive society full of care and hope, aims to help underprivileged individuals and families overcome their daily challenges by following the principle of "serving with love to create value". Inclusive theatre, which traces its roots to the United Kingdom, is a platform that connects individuals who are regarded as underprivileged and vulnerable in conventional society for various reasons. First introduced in China in 2012 by Hunan Aimier in cooperation with United Kingdom-based Chickenshed Theatre Group, the theatre workshop empowers both disabled and ordinary children to cooperate, learn and demonstrate their ability and talents together on stage. The 3-year programme was also designed so that all children can express their individuality through drama, which will hopefully pave the way towards a truly inclusive and harmonious society. Letitia Chow, Chairperson of the JNA Awards and Director of Business Development - Jewellery Group at Informa Markets remarked, "Informa Markets is a strong supporter of cultivating corporate social responsibility. We hope that we can set an example through this initiative, so that the jewellery trade would be made more aware of these children with special needs and to support them in their own way. Hence, they can learn and grow in a supportive environment and can be better integrated into the society." Hunan Aimier commented, "There is always a lack in resources for providing support to these disabled children. Inclusive theatre not only serves as a platform for them to learn and to develop their talents, but also allows ordinary children to meet with people from different backgrounds at a young age. In the long run, it will be greatly beneficial to building an inclusive and tolerant community. We are grateful for the support from JNA Awards, which allows us to run the project for two years. We wish to establish a permanent inclusive theatre in China in the near future, and to allow these children to shine on the world stage." JNA Awards 2019 is supported by Headline Partners Chow Tai Fook Jewellery Group, the Shanghai Diamond Exchange, and DANAT, together with Honoured Partners KGK Group, China Gems and Jade Exchange, and Guangdong Land Holdings Limited. For more information, visit http://www.JNAawards.com/ or contact: JNA Awards Marketing Informa Markets +852 2516-2184 [email protected] Notes for Editors: 1. About the Headline Partner 1.1 Chow Tai Fook Jewellery Group Limited (www.chowtaifook.com) Chow Tai Fook Jewellery Group Limited (SEHK stock code: 1929) was listed on the Main Board of The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong in December 2011. Founded in 1929, the Group's iconic brand "CHOW TAI FOOK" has been widely recognised for its trustworthiness and authenticity, and is renowned for its product design, quality and value. The success of the Group and its iconic brand is rooted in innovation, craftsmanship and heritage. The Group also holds other jewellery brands including T MARK, HEARTS ON FIRE, MONOLOGUE and SOINLOVE, which are the first examples of a long term multi-brand strategy rollout. The Group's commitment to sustainable growth is anchored in its "Smart+" strategy, which is in place to promote long term innovation in the business, in people and in culture. Another asset underpinning sustainable growth is a sophisticated vertically integrated business model. This supports the Group by fostering excellence and extending opportunities along the entire value chain to communities and industry partners. With an extensive retail network in Greater China, Korea, Japan, Singapore, Malaysia and the United States, and a fast-growing e-commerce business, the Group is implementing effective online-to-offline ("O2O") strategies to succeed in today's omni-channel retail environment. 1.2 Shanghai Diamond Exchange (www.cnsde.com) Authorised by the State Council, the Shanghai Diamond Exchange (SDE) is the only diamond exchange body in China; and provides diamond dealers a fair and safe transaction venue under close supervision. It also enjoys a favourable taxation policy and is operated in accordance with international best practices of the diamond industry. Established in 2000, the SDE is a non-profit, self-regulating membership organisation and a member of the World Federation of Diamond Bourses. 1.3 Bahrain Institute for Pearls and Gemstones -- DANAT (www.danat.bh) The Bahrain Institute for Pearls and Gemstones (DANAT) was established in 2017, as an initiative of HRH Prince Salman bin Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander and First Deputy Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Bahrain. DANAT was formed as a wholly owned subsidiary of the Bahrain Mumtalakat Holding Company (Mumtalakat), the sovereign wealth fund of the Kingdom. DANAT evolved from the Pearl & Gem Testing Laboratory of Bahrain (the first laboratory of its kind in the region), which was established in 1990. It was formed to expand upon and enhance the excellent work of the laboratory, with the vision of becoming the world's preferred institute for natural pearl and gemstone third-party verification services and scientific research. Currently, DANAT plays a vital role in protecting and enhancing the public's trust in pearls, gemstones and jewellery. With its offices located at the iconic Bahrain World Trade Centre, the facility aims to establish itself as the window into international markets, serving local and global clients, and bolstering the reputation of the Kingdom as a leading centre for pearl and gemstone expertise. DANAT is an authority on industry standards, scientific knowledge and education, and is committed to the highest standards of professional and personal ethics. It is dedicated to supporting the pearl and gemstone industry and offers training programmes locally, regionally and internationally to a new generation of gemmologists, industry professionals and gemmology enthusiasts. 2. About the Honoured Partners 2.1 KGK Group (www.kgkgroup.com) The KGK Group was founded in 1905 by Kesrimal Kothari and Ghisilal Kothari of Jaipur (India), to trade gemstones between India and Burma. With a global presence across 19 countries today, the privately held group has evolved into one of the most preferred brands in the gemstone and jewellery industry, with a vertically integrated operation. KGK is one of the few conglomerates covering the entire spectrum of mining, sourcing, manufacturing and distribution of coloured gemstones, diamonds and jewellery for over a century. KGK Group has a resilient team of 12,000 employees with operations and offices in Asia, Australia, North and South America, Europe and Africa. Having achieved an impeccable reputation in the gemstone, diamond and jewellery trade, the group has recently diversified into real estate. 2.2 China Gems & Jade Exchange (www.csgje.com) China Gems & Jade Exchange (CGJE) is a national gem and jade trading platform approved by the State Council. China Gems & Jade Exchange adheres to the principle of "Led by Technology, Develop with Innovation", and using the latest real-time traceability, big data, block chains, high-end intelligent technology to solve various bottlenecks in the development of the gemstone industry. At present, two platforms have been built, namely, gemstone trading service platform and intelligent supply chain service platform. CGJE has become the only international gemstone trading service platform with full process tracking service in the industry. In line with the basic principles of " fairness, impartiality and openness", China Gems & Jade Exchange combines the concepts of "innovation, advancement and compliance" to provide high-quality and professional third-party supporting trade services for jewelry enterprises at home and abroad. 2.3 Guangdong Land Holdings Limited (www.gdland.com.hk) Guangdong Land Holdings Limited (GDLAND), with its headquarters in Hong Kong, is listed on The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited, and is a subsidiary of GDH Limited -- Guangdong Province's largest conglomerate operating outside Mainland China. GDLAND primarily engages in property development and investment, and in business that include (but are not limited to) the development and operational management of innovative commercial real estate, urban complex and industrial business complex. As the strategic arm of GDH Limited, GDLAND engages in the business development of commercial real estate, as well as urban and industrial complex projects. Its flagship "Buxin Project" is forecast to become the biggest and most advanced jewellery mart in the world. With a lot size of over 87,000 sq.m. and a floor area projected to exceed 700,000 sq.m., the Buxin Project will include a large-scale jewellery trading and exhibition centre along with other facilities. Located in the Buxin area of Luohu district in Central Shenzhen, and close to the Shuibei Gold and Jewellery Base, this prime piece of property is expected to turn the area into one of the most influential gold and jewellery trading and exchange platforms, not just in China, but in the world. 3. About Informa Markets (www.informamarkets.com) Informa Markets creates platforms for industries and specialist markets to trade, innovate and grow. Our portfolio is comprised of more than 550 international B2B events and brands in markets including Healthcare & Pharmaceuticals, Infrastructure, Construction & Real Estate, Fashion & Apparel, Hospitality, Food & Beverage, and Health & Nutrition, among others. We provide customers and partners around the globe with opportunities to engage, experience and do business through face-to-face exhibitions, specialist digital content and actionable data solutions. As the world's leading exhibitions organiser, we bring a diverse range of specialist markets to life, unlocking opportunities and helping them to thrive 365 days of the year. For more information, please visit www.informamarkets.com. SOURCE JNA Awards Related Links http://www.JNAawards.com/ NEW YORK, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- KPMG LLP, the U.S. audit, tax and advisory firm, announced that the Villanova School of Business and the University of Southern California (USC) Leventhal School of Accounting have expanded their offering in the KPMG Master of Accounting with Data and Analytics Program to include a tax concentration for the 2020-21 academic year. The schools, which join the University of Mississippi's Patterson School of Accountancy in including tax as part of the curriculum, are among nine universities throughout the country involved with the KPMG program. Applications are being accepted through May 19 for the 2020-21 program for all participating institutions. Additional information, including a listing of the schools and how to apply, is available on the program's website. "Disruptive new technologies and the growing urgency among many companies to reimagine their tax function are requiring tax professionals to expand their skills and knowledge beyond their traditional tax technical competencies," said Jeffrey C. LeSage, Americas Vice ChairmanTax at KPMG, and a Villanova graduate. "We're excited that this expansion of the tax concentration within the KPMG master's program at top universities will help prepare tax and accounting professionals for the future." Frank Casal, KPMG's Audit Vice Chair, added: "The program positions the participants and the firm to offer a unique perspective on how advances in emerging technologies will continue to enhance quality in the profession." Select students in the groundbreaking KPMG program at eight of the nine participating universities will receive full-tuition funding plus a stipend toward room and board, as part of KPMG sponsorship, as they study an integrated curriculum of accounting, audit and tax courses and get hands-on experience with real-world technologies and advanced data and analytics, the firm said. In addition, the students will take part in an internship with a KPMG Audit or Tax team during the program and be offered full-time positions with the firm upon graduation. With the addition of tax to the Villanova School of Business and the USC Leventhal programs, KPMG total sponsorships for the class of 2021 will increase to approximately 195, including audit and tax. To date, 51 students have graduated from the KPMG Master of Accounting with Data and Analytics Program since its launch in August 2016 at The Ohio State University Max M. Fisher College of Business and the Villanova School of Business, and are now working at the firm. Another 134 students are expected to earn their degrees this summer and start working full time at KPMG in the fall. A brief video of participants at Ole Miss talking about the program's tax expansion at the university in 2018 can be accessed here. About KPMG LLP KPMG LLP is one of the world's leading professional services firms, providing innovative business solutions and audit, tax, and advisory services to many of the world's largest and most prestigious organizations. KPMG LLP is the independent U.S. member firm of KPMG International Cooperative ("KPMG International"). KPMG International's independent member firms have 207,000 professionals working in 153 countries and territories. Learn more at www.kpmg.com/us. SOURCE KPMG LLP Related Links http://www.kpmg.com/us Many RMH team members and guests call these affected communities, home. The flooding has threatened not only urban areas, but the livelihood of cattle farmers throughout the state, which will impact the food supply for the entire country for the foreseeable future. "RMH's culture is deeply rooted in each of the communities we have an opportunity to serve so when tragic events take place in our neighborhoods, we roll up our sleeves to help one another out in any way we can," said Mitch Blocher President of RMH Franchise. "Amidst the hardship many of our team members faced themselves during the recent events, I am very proud of all of them who have laid a hand to support their neighbors in need and raising funds for the Nebraska Cattlemen association was another way we felt most compelled to help given the strong association to our industry. I would like to thank Team RMH and everyone who contributed small or big. We have a bright future together!" Continued Blocher. RMH Franchise presented a $5,000 check donation to the Nebraska Cattlemen association this past Friday, May 3rd. The donation will go toward the Nebraska Cattlemen Disaster Relief Fund to assist cattle producers in the state of Nebraska that were impacted by the recent weather and flooding. Click here to learn more and support: Nebraska Cattlemen Disaster Relief About RMH Franchise RMH Franchise has grown to become the second-largest Applebee's franchisee in the world with 135 locations. RMH Franchise provides a great place to work, a guest experience you can be proud of, and amazing potential for career growth. At RMH Franchise, team members take pride in their service, their careers, and our commitment to the community and the U.S. military. For more information on RMH Franchise, visit www.rmhfranchise.com. About the Nebraska Cattlemen association The Nebraska Cattlemen's association serves as the representative for the state's beef cattle industry and represents professional cattle breeders, ranchers and feeders, as well as county and local cattlemen's associations. Its headquarters are in Lincoln with satellite offices around the state to best serve members. SOURCE RMH Franchise Corporation Related Links www.rmhfranchise.com This is one of the activities of the Nanjing Tech Week. In order to deepen the construction of "Innovative City, Beautiful Ancient Capital", Nanjing will hold "Nanjing Tech Week", which aims to build an ideal space for mutual creation, build an international platform for sharing, and create unlimited opportunities for mutual benefit. On June 26, "Nanjing Tech Week" will be held. The theme is "Innovation in Nanjing, Limitless Opportunities", with the principal of "innovating, sharing and winning together". Nanjing Tech Week is bringing together innovative minds to exchange groundbreaking ideas in summits that will form Nanjing's own "Davos Forum". It is hosting the NJ TECH exhibition to showcase cutting-edge technologies and create a brand-new version of VivaTech in Nanjing. It is addressing key topics of industrial development in a series of conferences, establishing Nanjing's own improved Hannover Messe, and holding competitions in entrepreneurship and innovation -- Nanjing's own "Oscars" to award excellence in both areas. Nanjing Tech Week is encouraging different districts, universities and organizations to launch their events, establishing Nanjing's own "Roman Forum" on innovation and entrepreneurship. Since the beginning of the Tech Week, the organizing committee has issued thousands of "Nanjing Invitations" to the whole world. At present, it has received over a thousand responses from more than 20 countries, including academicians of domestic and foreign academies, officials of the multinational Innovation Agency, and science and technology counselors, world-renowned entrepreneurs. Singapore will participate in the whole process as a guest country. It is expected that the number of participants in main conference will exceed 5,000, including 1,000 overseas guests, and the number of participants will be approximately 100,000 during the tech week. Image Attachments Links: http://asianetnews.net/view-attachment?attach-id=335633 SOURCE The Organizing Committee of Nanjing Tech Week MIAMI, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- MDO PARTNERS , a Miami-based boutique law firm, today announces the expansion of its global compliance and corporate law practices with the addition of Associate Counsel, Priscila Bandeira. Ms. Bandeira graduated with a L.L.M./J.D. joint degree from the University of Miami (UM) School of Law and is a member of the Florida Bar. She previously served as the firm's law clerk, and now joins the firm as an attorney. Ms. Bandeira will assist clients with corporate governance, corporate and international transactions, and compliance programs with emphasis on the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act. "I have learned immensely and have enjoyed doing a great amount of interesting work in my role as the firm's law clerk. I am thrilled to continue assisting clients with their corporate and compliance needs at MDO Partners and to expand my role at the firm." "We are excited to have Priscila as an attorney on our team," said Managing Partner, Richard Montes de Oca. Her legal, language and cultural experience, especially with Brazilian clients and interests is a tremendous value to MDO." Bandeira is originally from Belo Horizonte, Brazil, where she previously received a law degree from the Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais. She is currently registered with the Brazilian Bar and has experience in Brazilian Corporate Law, International Commercial Arbitration, and International Investments and Contracts. Bandeira is an active member of the Hispanic National Bar Association (HNBA) and is fluent in Portuguese and French, and conversational in Spanish. Priscila Bandeira can be contacted at [email protected]. About MDO Partners MDO Partners is a boutique law firm that focuses in Corporate, International, and Real Estate Law, as well as Global Compliance and Business Ethics. The firm is comprised of a solid team of attorneys and advisors with more than 100 years of combined experience, who are committed to the business goals and best interests of their clients. The firm delivers value-added services of the highest caliber, and serves as a trusted advisor to its clients, with a practical and business-savvy approach. To learn more about MDO Partners, please visit www.mdopartners.com . SOURCE MDO Partners Related Links https://www.mdopartners.com Neptune will acquire SugarLeaf on a debt-free basis for initial consideration at closing of US$18 million, paid as US$12 million in cash and US$6 million in common shares. By achieving certain annual adjusted EBITDA and other performance targets, additional consideration of up to US$132 million would be paid over each of the next three years as a combination of cash and shares for a maximum aggregate purchase price of up to US$150 million. The Transaction is expected to close on or before July 31 st , 2019, upon completion of standard closing requirements, including regulatory and stock exchange (NASDAQ and TSX) approvals. "With Neptune's Canada-based operations ramping up production and the cannabis industry growing exponentially around the world due to an evolving legal global framework, now is the time to establish a state-of-the-art supply chain in the U.S. marketplace," said Jim Hamilton, President and CEO of Neptune. "SugarLeaf's capacity, efficient production of high-quality extracts, and strong supplier relationships, combined with our existing competencies in customer relationships and science-based formulations, creates a strong value proposition to U.S. brands who want to offer differentiated products to consumers. Neptune's objective is to be a world's leader in extraction, purification and formulation of value-added cannabis and natural health products. We warmly welcome the SugarLeaf team to Neptune." "We are thrilled to be joining forces with Neptune" said Peter Galloway, CEO of SugarLeaf. "The SugarLeaf team looks forward to combining our strengths with that of the Neptune team, thereby accelerating our combined growth and development." Additional Information on SugarLeaf SugarLeaf's Conover, North Carolina extraction facility has a processing capacity of 1,500,000 kg. SugarLeaf also possesses established, solid relationships with local farmers and consumer product companies looking for high purity hemp extracts to add to their product lines. The existing management team at SugarLeaf consists of experienced operators who will continue to operate the North Carolina extraction facility. Sugarleaf has highly efficient hemp extraction capabilities in an important cultivation region of the U.S., developed through years of experience in processing and extraction methods. The company has been at the center of an extensive community that supports hemp extract production and refining, and uses the most advanced extraction equipment available from stainless centrifuges to high capacity filtering and purifying techniques. Additionally, Sugarleaf sources hemp material from local licensed hemp growers who use responsible growing practices, including organic and regenerative farming techniques. SugarLeaf uses non-GMO ethanol at extremely cold temperatures with advanced lab techniques that produce cannabinoid-rich extracts. Additional Transaction Details Upon closing of the Transaction, Neptune will pay initial consideration of US$18 million, comprising US$12 million of cash and US$6 million in Neptune shares. Neptune plans to finance all or part of the cash portion of the initial consideration through a lending arrangement with a bank or other institution, or a private or public equity financing (or a combination of such financings). An additional US$6 million in shares will be paid when certain production and revenue milestones are achieved. Neptune will also pay an additional US$16 million, 50% in cash and the remainder in Neptune common shares, should SugarLeaf's adjusted EBITDA exceed US$8 million for any rolling 12-month period beginning April 1, 2019. Performance-based considerations have also been structured and will be based upon a percentage incremental adjusted EBITDA in 2021 and 2022 above a minimum growth level of up to a maximum of US$110 million. Neptune has the option to pay these additional considerations with a combination of cash and shares. The Transaction will be subject to normal post-closing adjustments and customary terms and conditions. The Transaction is expected to close on or before July 31st, 2019. TD Securities Inc. is acting as financial advisor to Neptune and Osler, Hoskin & Harcourt LLP is acting as legal counsel to Neptune, and Vicente Sederberg LLP is acting as U.S. regulatory counsel to Neptune. Fluet, Huber & Hoang is acting as legal advisor to SugarLeaf. For more information about Neptune's US products and services portfolio, please write to [email protected] . About Neptune Wellness Solutions Inc. Neptune Wellness Solutions specializes in the extraction, purification and formulation of health and wellness products. Licensed by Health Canada to process cannabis at its 50,000 square foot facility located in Sherbrooke, Quebec, Neptune brings decades of experience in the natural products sector to the legal cannabis industry. Leveraging its scientific and technological expertise, Neptune focuses on the development of value-added and differentiated products for the Canadian and global cannabis markets. Neptune's activities also include the development and commercialization of turnkey nutrition solutions and patented ingredients such as MaxSimil, and of a variety of marine and seed oils. Its head office is located in Laval, Quebec. Forward Looking Statements Statements in this press release that are not statements of historical or current fact constitute "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the U.S. securities laws and Canadian securities laws. Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other unknown factors that could cause the actual results of Neptune to be materially different from historical results or from any future results expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. In addition to statements which explicitly describe such risks and uncertainties, readers are urged to consider statements labeled with the terms "believes", "belief", "expects", "intends", "projects", "anticipates", "will", "should" or "plans" to be uncertain and forward-looking. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this press release. Forward-looking information in this press release includes, but is not limited to, information or statements about Neptune's ability to successfully develop, produce, supply, promote or generate any revenue from the sale of any hemp-based products in the legal hemp market; the evolution of the U.S. regulatory framework at both the state and the federal level; the timing of Neptune's or its partners' anticipated results, including in connection with the likelihood and timing of obtaining any necessary governmental approvals; and the ability or failure of Neptune or its partners to comply with governmental regulations. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement and the "Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information" section contained in Neptune's latest Annual Information Form (the "AIF"), which also forms part of Neptune's latest annual report on Form 40-F, and which is available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com, on EDGAR at www.sec.gov/edgar.shtml and on the investor section of Neptune's website at www.neptunecorp.com. All forward-looking statements in this press release are made as of the date of this press release. Neptune does not undertake to update any such forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law. The forward-looking statements contained herein are also subject generally to other risks and uncertainties that are described from time to time in Neptune public securities filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission and the Canadian securities commissions. Additional information about these assumptions and risks and uncertainties is contained in the AIF under "Risk Factors". Neither NASDAQ nor the Toronto Stock Exchange accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. SOURCE Neptune Wellness Solutions Inc. Related Links https://neptunecorp.com BOSTON and CHICAGO, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Northern Light (www.northernlight.com) and KnowledgeHound (https://www.knowledgehound.com) today announced a partnership to advance comprehensive knowledge management (KM) capabilities at large enterprises. The two companies are jointly marketing their solutions for searching and analyzing text and data, respectively, to help business professionals glean and share insights from market, customer and competitive intelligence research to inform decision-making. KnowledgeHound Northern Light specializes in machine learning-powered KM platforms for market research and competitive intelligence (CI). Northern Light's SinglePoint market research/CI portal enables all of an organization's information from subscription services, business news, and internal research to be accessed in one place. KnowledgeHound allows an organization to dive deeper into its data to reveal connections and insights, and then easily share those insights through charts and tables, fully interactive dashboards or powerful stories that can influence and inform critical decisions. In a joint arrangement where Northern Light is providing the KM system and search of textual material, KnowledgeHound provides querying and display of data analytics. In this model, textual content (PDFs, Word, PowerPoint, HTML, XML) and multimedia objects (videos, audio tracks) are held at Northern Light and data files (SAS files, SPSS files, spreadsheets, etc.) are held at KnowledgeHound. Each company applies its search and visualization technology to the content it holds, but access to the two repositories is unified through the SinglePoint portal. "Northern Light provides the most effective search and insight extraction from textual content," C. David Seuss, Northern Light's CEO, said. "KnowledgeHound provides the most effective search and insight extraction from research data. Together, our mutual clients have the best of both worlds." "In today's tech world, it is difficult for a single platform to satisfy every possible use case. The collaboration with Northern Light, the most advanced search technology provider in enterprise knowledge management, is a win for our company and our customers," said Kristi Zuhlke, CEO of KnowledgeHound. "By combining our two technologies, companies will be able to transform their existing knowledge into decisions more effectively than ever before." Both Northern Light and KnowledgeHound are what information industry research firm Jinfo categorizes as "intelligence platforms," which integrate discovery along with other traditional and emerging technologies for extracting insights from a corpus of material, and use analytics tools to make insights visible. According to Jinfo, "intelligence systems . . . are user-centric, rather than information-team-centric. The highest value of the system comes when end-users interact with and through the platform in order to achieve specific project, team and business goals." About KnowledgeHound KnowledgeHound provides software solutions that combine the power of search and visual analytics across an organization's customer research. Trusted by world-leading Fortune 1000 brands, KnowledgeHound helps a variety of cross-functional teams around the globe unlock the enormous potential trapped inside their customer research. The primary objective of KnowledgeHound's platform is to support the transformation of clients' data into actionable business decisions. Headquartered in Chicago, Illinois and established in 2013, KnowledgeHound is a quickly-growing company with many integration partners and deeply-rooted expertise in the market research industry. About Northern Light Northern Light has been providing knowledge management platforms for competitive intelligence and market research insights to global enterprises since 1996. The company pioneered the application of machine learning and artificial intelligence for the automated analysis and extraction of meaning from large collections of market research and competitive intelligence. Northern Light's current clients include seven of Boston Consulting Group's 50 "Most Innovative Companies" of 2018, and Fortune 1000 leaders across multiple industries such as information technology, pharmaceuticals, telecommunications, and life sciences. Northern Light has over 250,000 users of its strategic research portals. Headquartered in Boston, Massachusetts, Northern Light has unique content aggregation partnerships with more than 150 of the world's leading syndicated technology and industry research publishers, aggregates business and technology news from over 6,500 news sources, and is a charter member of the Center for Complex Systems and Enterprises at the Stevens Institute of Technology. Media Contacts: David Domeshek Emily Coughlin Northern Light KnowledgeHound (508) 873-7068 (317) 531-6694 [email protected] [email protected] SOURCE Northern Light Related Links http://www.northernlight.com KANSAS CITY, Mo., May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- The Better Business Bureau (BBB) of El Paso, Texas recently named Pioneer Services, a Division of MidCountry Bank, as a Finalist for its "Integrity" Award and its "Gold Standard of TRUST" Award. Both of these recognitions are part of the organization's First Annual Awards of Excellence, acknowledging a company's integrity and ethics in relationships with customers, employees, and the community. Award recipients must meet the eight principles that comprise the BBB Standards for Trust, which include; Build Trust, Advertise Honestly, Tell the Truth, Be Transparent, Honor Promises, Be Responsive, Safeguard Privacy, and Embody Integrity. From its award-winning Corporate Social Responsibility program, which includes community giving, volunteerism, and free financial education resources, to its comprehensive complaint and customer review process Pioneer Services works to set the highest standard for financial companies servicing the military. Trust can only be gained over time through responsiveness and memorable service, and the company works at this every day. In fact, Pioneer Services was one of the first in the industry to create a 10-point Financial Bill of Rights for customers, educating them on what they should expect and deserve from a financial provider. Pioneer Services has provided financial services to the military community for over 30 years, helping 1.4 million military families along the way. As a Division of MidCountry Bank, a federal savings bank, its customers enjoy the protections, security, and service afforded by a federally regulated bank. "Integrity" and "Gold Standard of TRUST" Finalists will now go through additional scrutiny, with winners to be announced at the First Annual Awards of Excellence Luncheon at the El Paso Convention Center in El Paso, Texas, on May 15, 2019. For more information about the company, go to PioneerServices.com. Contact: Scott Cahill, Corporate Communications Pioneer Services, a Division of MidCountry Bank [email protected] ph: 816-756-2020 SOURCE Pioneer Services Related Links http://www.PioneerServices.com COLUMBUS, Ohio, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Quantum Health, the healthcare industry's first and leading consumer navigation company, today released the results of its tenth independent actuarial review of the company's entire book of business. The review, conducted by industry expert Dale H. Yamamoto, FCA, MAAA, validates that Quantum Health clients experience significant and consistent cost savings: an average cost reduction of 5.2 percent in the first year, cumulative average savings of 10.8 percent over three years and 17.5 percent over 5 years. For a company with projected annual claims costs of $100,000,000, this equates to $5,200,000 savings in the first year alone. These results are significant, and even more so because no other company in the industry consistently measuresand deliversmulti-year cost savings across its entire book of business. "Since founding the navigation services space in 1999, we have continuously optimized our approach to anticipating and solving the healthcare and benefits needs of self-funded employers," says Quantum Health Founder and CEO Kara Trott. "Despite continuous changes in the marketplace, this year's actuarial review once again validates our effectiveness at reducing healthcare costs for our clients and members, year after year." Methodology for the review analyzed annual claims and membership between the years 2001 and 2017 for 136 Quantum Health clients. Each year's results compared Quantum Health's actual trend, which was weighted based on claims Per Member Per Year (PMPY) and member lives, versus industry average trend. Adjustments for plan design changes and provider network changes were made in order to evaluate Quantum Health's true impact. In addition, the review analyzed claims data for clients implemented between 2013 and 2017, in order to account for changes in benefit plan designs, delivery and lower market cost trends over the past 17 years. Despite these changes, the review concluded that Quantum Health clients experienced the same magnitude of financial results, and that Quantum Health clients successfully bend the healthcare trend, with cumulative average growth rates of costs at just 1.7 percent, compared to the industry average of 5.8 percent, which equates to cumulative average savings of 11.1 percent over the first three years. The two analyses demonstrate that Quantum Health's results are sustainable, repeatable and consistent across industries, benefit plan structures and demographics year after year. "Our research-based, consumer-centric model delivers unparalleled ROI for our clients," continued Trott. "As healthcare continues to get more and more complex and costly, we are unwavering in our mission to simplify and optimize the consumer experience. By helping our members understand and use healthcare and benefits more effectively, we also help our clients and their providers solve their most critical challenges and significantly reduce their costs." About Quantum Health Quantum Health is the healthcare industry's leading consumer navigation and care coordination company, delivering an unparalleled consumer experience based on empathy and trust. This enables employers to achieve industry-leading satisfaction rates and independently validated claim savings. Launched in 1999, Quantum Health's model is based on years of deep consumer research and the insights learned from working with over 170 companies, guiding millions of consumers and their providers through the healthcare and benefits journey. Based in Columbus, Ohio, Quantum Health has earned numerous awards, including Entrepreneur of the Year by Ernst & Young and Fastest-Growing Privately Held Company for 10 years by Inc. 5000. FORTUNE and Entrepreneur magazines have recognized the company as a Great Place to Work Best Small & Medium Workplace. The Women Presidents' Organization has ranked Quantum Health as one the 50 Fastest-Growing Women-Owned/Led Companies for the past five years, and Columbus Business First has honored Quantum Health as a Best Place to Work for the past twelve years. To learn more about the company, visit Quantum-Health.com, and connect with us on LinkedIn and Twitter. Contact: Cynthia Henry [email protected] 614-846-4318 x12924 SOURCE Quantum Health Related Links http://www.Quantum-Health.com Two-day auction attracts 5,800+ people from 53 countries; approx. 55% of equipment sold online TORONTO, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ - Ritchie Bros. set a new record in Toronto, ON this week, selling 3,750+ equipment items and trucks over two days for CA$46+ million (US$34+ million). The May 7 8, 2019 auction attracted 5,800+ people from 53 countries, including 4,100+ online bidders. Approximately 88 percent of the equipment in the auction was sold to Canadian buyers, with buyers from Ontario purchasing 71 percent, while international buyers from countries such as Pakistan, Singapore, and the United Kingdom purchased 12 percent of the equipment. Online bidders purchased approximately 55 percent of the equipment. "This was the highest GTV (gross transactional value) we've ever achieved in Eastern Canada," said Anna Sgro, SVP, Canada East Sales, Ritchie Bros. "It was also the most equipment we've ever sold in Toronto, consisting of large packages of gear from several of our longtime, loyal customers; as well as a great lineup of transportation, construction, and utility consignments from new customers. On top of this week's live onsite event, we also recently sold a 2008 Grove GMK7450 550-ton all-terrain crane located in Toronto through our online Marketplace-E sales channel for $1.2 million!" More than 800 owners sold equipment in the Toronto auction, including the Newmarket, ON-based tunnel contractor Technicore Underground Inc. "Ritchie Bros. are always great to work with," said Tony DiMillo, President of Technicore Underground. "Their customer service is excellent, they offer a variety of contract options, and have an expansive market reach. We sold just over 25 surplus items this week and were pleased with the results. We look forward to working with them again in the future." Toronto sales highlights included: A 2012 Caterpillar D8T dozer sold for CA$355,000 A 2013 Peterbilt 367 T/A w/ National NBT 30H 30-ton boom truck sold for CA$270,000 A 2002 Caterpillar 627G motor scraper sold for CA$260,000 A 2012 Western Star 4900 tri-drive hydro vacuum truck sold for CA$200,000 A 2017 Western Star 4900SB Tri/A dump truck sold for CA$180,000 A 2019 Peterbilt 389 T/A sleeper heavy haul truck sold for CA$157,500 AUCTION QUICK FACTS: TORONTO, ON (May 2019) Total gross transactional value CA$46+ million (US$34+ million) CA$46+ million (US$34+ million) Amount sold to online bidders CA$25+ million (US$18+ million) CA$25+ million (US$18+ million) Total registered bidders (in person and online) 5,800+ 5,800+ Registered online bidders 4,100+ 4,100+ Total lots sold 3,750+ 3,750+ Number of sellers 800+ Ritchie Bros. currently has more than 40,000 equipment items, trucks, and other assets listed for sale across all its auctions and marketplaces, including live events in Montreal, QC on May 22 23; Truro, NS on June 11; and Corner Brook, NL on June 27. For a complete list of upcoming auctions and equipment available, visit rbauction.com and ironplanet.com About Ritchie Bros.: Established in 1958, Ritchie Bros. (NYSE and TSX: RBA) is a global asset management and disposition company, offering customers end-to-end solutions for buying and selling used heavy equipment, trucks and other assets. Operating in a number of sectors, including construction, transportation, agriculture, energy, oil and gas, mining, and forestry, the company's selling channels include: Ritchie Bros. Auctioneers, the world's largest industrial auctioneer offers live auction events with online bidding; IronPlanet, an online marketplace with featured weekly auctions and providing the exclusive IronClad Assurance equipment condition certification; Marketplace-E, a controlled marketplace offering multiple price and timing options; Mascus, a leading European online equipment listing service; and Ritchie Bros. Private Treaty, offering privately negotiated sales. The company's suite of multichannel sales solutions also includes RB Asset Solutions, a complete end-to-end asset management and disposition system. Ritchie Bros. also offers sector-specific solutions including GovPlanet, TruckPlanet, and Kruse Energy Auctioneers, plus equipment financing and leasing through Ritchie Bros. Financial Services. For more information about Ritchie Bros., visit RitchieBros.com. Photos and video for embedding in media stories are available at rbauction.com/media. SOURCE Ritchie Bros. Auctioneers Related Links http://www.rbauction.com PARK CITY, Utah, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Skullcandy, Inc., the original lifestyle audio brand, introduces the latest addition to their truly wireless line up, Indy, earbuds for consumers who want to experience audio with a whole new level of freedom. Indy gives users what they want - a truly wireless experience that's intuitive, durable, and will last with them throughout the day. Indy delivers a seamless, untangled experience with quick pair and capacitive touch controls, while its form factor provides a noise isolating fit so you don't miss a beat of its rich sound profile. Removable stability gels and gel tips are also included to ensure a secure fit all day long. The earbuds feature a 33 foot Bluetooth range and a competitive battery life boasting four hours in each bud and 12 hours in the pocket-sized charging case, providing a total 16 hours of battery life. Indy is also IP55 which makes it sweat, water, and dust resistant, giving users protection for their entire week from daily commutes to more active pursuits on the weekends. "Indy is for the consumer who is interested in making the leap to truly wireless," said Jeff Hutchings, Chief Product Officer at Skullcandy. "We've combined our wireless technology with a stylish shape and portability that gives our consumers a whole new level of freedom when it comes to experiencing their personal soundtrack." Indy is an affordable and feature-rich truly wireless earbud designed to fit naturally within the everyday life of wireless users looking for the most seamless way to experience music. Indy includes Bluetooth capability, built-in microphone and unique touch controls for quick and easy access to your device's activate assistant, media content as well as call, track and volume control. The earbuds officially launch in Black, and later in the year will be available in three colorways: Moab, Indigo Blue, and Mint. Indy is available on May 8 at Skullcandy.com for $79.99, and at select retailers. About Skullcandy Founded at the center of music and board sports, Skullcandy is the original lifestyle audio brand. The company lives by the mantra: "We don't want you to just listen to music. We want you to feel it." Skullcandy drives innovation in audio experiences from groundbreaking technology in its headphones to once in a lifetime music events featuring emerging artists that inspire and move its culture forward. Based in Park City, Utah, Skullcandy designs, markets, and distributes audio products through a variety of distribution channels globally with international offices in Tokyo, Zurich, London, Shenzhen and Vancouver, as well as through partners in some of the most important cultural hubs in the world. The company's website can be found at https://www.skullcandy.com SOURCE Skullcandy, Inc. Related Links https://www.skullcandy.com WASHINGTON, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls/2019/South-Shore-Furniture-Recalls-Chest-of-Drawers-Due-to-Serious-Tip-Over-and-Entrapment-Hazards-One-Fatality-Reported Recall Summary Name of Product: Libra style 3-drawer chests Hazard: The recalled chests are unstable if they are not anchored to the wall, posing serious tip-over and entrapment hazards that can result in death or injuries to children. Remedy: Refund, Repair Consumers should immediately stop using any recalled chest that is not properly anchored to the wall, and place it in an area that children cannot access. Consumers should contact South Shore to select one of the following recall options: Consumers can receive a full refund with free pick-up of the Chest; Consumers can also remove the drawer slides from one side of the Chest and receive packaging along with a prepaid shipping label from the company to mail in the drawer slides for a full refund; or Consumers can receive a free tip-over restraint kit and can request a one-time free in-home installation of the kit. Consumer Contact: South Shore toll-free at 855-215-4932 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, or online at www.SouthShoreFurniture.com and click on "Recall Information" for more information. Recall Details Units: About 310,000 (in addition, about 6,900 were sold in Canada and 5,600 in Mexico) Description: This recall involves Libra style 3-drawer chests of drawers sold in nine colors. Each drawer has one metal handle. The model number is printed on a label on the back of the chest. The chests measure 27-inches high by 31-inches wide and 15-inches deep and each weighs about 56 pounds. The model numbers and colors include: Model Number Color 3046033 Royal Cherry 3070033 Black 3070223 Black 3159033 Chocolate 3159223 Chocolate 3050033 White 3050223 White 3113033 Natural Maple 10430 Soft Gray 10433 Gray Oak 10680 Country Pine 10682 Rustic Oak 3-drawer chests with the model numbers listed above that end in the letter A, B, C, D or E are also included in this recall. Some models of the 3-drawer chests listed above were also sold as part of a three-piece bedroom set that also included a bed and nightstand. Only the 3-drawer chests in the bedroom sets are included in this recall. Incidents/Injuries: South Shore has received two reports of tip-over incidents involving the recalled chests of drawers. One report stated that a child received bruises on his leg and scratches. Another incident reported a fatality involving a two year-old and an unanchored, empty 3-drawer chest. Sold At: Online at Walmart.com, Amazon.com, Target.com and other online retailers from October 2009 through July 2018 for about $60. Importer: South Shore Industries Ltd., of Canada Manufactured in: Canada and Mexico Health Canada's press release is available at: http://healthycanadians.gc.ca/recall-alert-rappel-avis/hc-sc/2019/69064r-eng.php Footer About U.S. CPSC: The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission is charged with protecting the public from unreasonable risks of injury or death associated with the use of thousands of types of consumer products under the agency's jurisdiction. Deaths, injuries, and property damage from consumer product incidents cost the nation more than $1 trillion annually. CPSC is committed to protecting consumers and families from products that pose a fire, electrical, chemical or mechanical hazard. CPSC's work to ensure the safety of consumer products - such as toys, cribs, power tools, cigarette lighters and household chemicals contributed to a decline in the rate of deaths and injuries associated with consumer products over the past 40 years. Federal law bars any person from selling products subject to a publicly-announced voluntary recall by a manufacturer or a mandatory recall ordered by the Commission. For more lifesaving information, follow us on Facebook, Instagram @USCPSC and Twitter @USCPSC or sign up to receive our e-mail alerts. To report a dangerous product or a product-related injury go online to www.SaferProducts.gov or call CPSC's Hotline at 800-638-2772 or teletypewriter at 301-595-7054 for the hearing impaired. CPSC Consumer Information Hotline Contact us at this toll-free number if you have questions about a recall: 800-638-2772 (TTY 301-595-7054) Times: 8 a.m. 5:30 p.m. ET; Messages can be left anytime Call to get product safety and other agency information and to report unsafe products. Media Contact Please use the phone numbers below for all media requests. Phone: 301-504-7908 Spanish: 301-504-7800 Recall Number: 19-116 SOURCE U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Related Links http://www.cpsc.gov MIAMI, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Starwood Capital Group ("Starwood Capital"), a global private investment firm focused on real estate and energy investments, today announced that an affiliate has reached an agreement to develop a 147,000 square-foot mixed-use facility in a designated Opportunity Zone in the Bronx, N.Y. The 10-story development, located at 425 Westchester Avenue, will be anchored by a PK-8 charter school and include office space for a non-profit organization as well as ground floor retail. Construction is expected to begin this month. 425 Westchester Avenue will be one of the highest-quality schools in the Bronx. With modern finishes, state-of-the-art classrooms and double-height recreational gym space, the building will help meet the historically high charter school demand in the Bronx, New York City's fastest-growing borough. As one of few new construction Class A properties in the Bronx, the property has a variety of unique features including floor-to-ceiling windows, open plan offices and more than 11,000 square feet of outdoor space. "The Bronx is New York City's fastest growing borough and we see continued opportunity to help bring new investment in the services, schools, office space and retail that have long contributed to the Bronx being such a vibrant community," said Anthony Balestrieri, Senior Vice President and leader of Starwood Capital Group's Opportunity Zone investment strategy. "We are thrilled to begin construction on 425 Westchester to bring a best-of-class charter school to the area that will serve hundreds of local families." "This project is representative of how Starwood's Opportunity Zone business can deliver value-add projects to priority areas in our markets that benefit our partners and investors and serve the community," said Christopher Graham, Senior Managing Director and Head of Real Estate Acquisitions for the Americas of Starwood Capital Group. "As Starwood grows its Opportunity Zone investment portfolio, we will look to capitalize on market opportunities to identify attractive projects and deliver significant value for our investors and to the neighborhoods they serve." Starwood Capital announced the formation of its Opportunity Zone initiative on Jan. 30, 2019, to ensure the success of its ongoing investments in Opportunity Zones, which were created by the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act to offer investors certain tax advantages for developing and operating assets in designated Opportunity Zones. Starwood Capital will focus its Opportunity Zone strategy on markets in regions where the firm has developed a strong real estate presence, including the West Coast, Southeast and large metropolitan markets such as New York City and Washington, D.C. Starwood Capital is well positioned in many of these markets and will continue to actively invest in, reposition and develop real estate assets in these communities. About Starwood Capital Group Starwood Capital Group is a private investment firm with a core focus on global real estate, energy infrastructure and oil & gas. The Firm and its affiliates maintain 13 offices in five countries around the world, and currently have approximately 4,000 employees. Since its inception in 1991, Starwood Capital Group has raised $45 billion of equity capital, and currently has in excess of $60 billion of assets under management. The Firm has invested in virtually every category of real estate on a global basis, opportunistically shifting asset classes, geographies and positions in the capital stack as it perceives risk/reward dynamics to be evolving. Over the past 27 years, Starwood Capital Group and its affiliates have successfully executed an investment strategy that involves building enterprises in both the private and public markets. Additional information can be found at starwoodcapital.com. Media Contacts: Tom Johnson/Dan Scorpio Abernathy MacGregor Group (212) 371-5999 [email protected] / [email protected] SOURCE Starwood Capital Group Related Links http://starwoodcapital.com NEW YORK, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- TMP Worldwide, a global leader in talent acquisition technologies, has made a significant commitment to grow its Business Development Team globally. Recently, TMP welcomed four Directors of Business Development - Jennifer Adelman and Brett Zingler for its San Francisco office, Eric Winn for its Waltham, MA office and Deena Sillett, for its London office. As leaders, they will develop and build solid relationships with companies to help solve their hiring challenges. With 10+ years of enterprise account management experience, Jennifer comes to TMP from Monster, where she was part of its Enterprise Business Development team. There, and throughout her career, she has maintained relationships with her esteemed clients and has consistently achieved high client retention. Jennifer's background covers many different areas, including HR/Talent Acquisition, recruitment advertising and SaaS; all of which will serve her well in her new role. Brett has been a leader in the recruitment media, SaaS and talent acquisition services industries for over a decade. Most recently, he served as the operations leader at Velocity Resource Group, where he managed several divisions as well as partnerships and marketing. He brings a proven ability to establish and maintain long-lasting relationships with clients and channel partners. Eric comes to TMP with over 10 years of sales experience. Most recently, he served as Director of Enterprise Sales for Salary.com, LLC. There, he managed a team of Enterprise Sales Executives where he demonstrated a proven track record of consistently building long lasting, meaningful relationships with his clients. Eric will be a vital part of our Business Development team and he is well suited to help enterprise customers in New England meet their hiring needs. Lastly, Deena joins the company's UK office from Qivos, where she was responsible for leading business development for the United Kingdom and beyond. She brings over 15 years of experience with a natural aptitude for helping clients meet their business goals. Deena has a proactive approach to nurturing client relationships, and she will play an integral part in leading our Business Development team in London. "I am proud to welcome our new Directors of New Business Development to the team," said Mike Littlewood, EVP of Global Business Development for TMP Worldwide. "Their expertise will play a vital role in helping us solve client challenges which will continue to fuel TMP's growth." About TMP Worldwide TMP Worldwide is a global leader in talent acquisition technologies, committed to finding new ways to leverage software, strategy and creative to build talent and enhance our clients' employer brands across every connection point. From healthcare to government to retail to technology and everything in between, we've revolutionized the way companies and candidates connect. SOURCE TMP Worldwide Related Links http://www.tmp.com PORTLAND, Ore., May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Travel Oregon announced that 2018 was the travel industry's ninth consecutive year of strong growth and economic impact, generating record revenues for the state. Independent findings by Dean Runyan Associates indicate that travel-related spending throughout the state increased by $500 million (up 4.2%) over last year, reaching a record $12.3 billion. The number of Oregonians directly employed in the industry rose to 115,400, a 2.9% increase over the prior year. "Travel Oregon's vision is a better life for all Oregonians through strong, sustainable local economies," said Todd Davidson, Travel Oregon CEO. "Everything we do at Travel Oregon, from product development to destination marketing to regional investments in tourism and our matching grants program, supports this vision. This report affirms that we are on the right track, so we will continue our work to enhance economic vitality and community livability in every corner of the state." The report, which provides detailed estimates of statewide, regional and county travel impact, includes the following key findings: Visitors to Oregon generated $12.3 billion in revenue for the state in 2018. This represents a 4.2% increase in spending compared to the previous year and marked the ninth straight year of growth. generated in revenue for the state in 2018. This represents a 4.2% increase in spending compared to the previous year and marked the ninth straight year of growth. Last year, hotel room revenue throughout the state increased by 4.4%. Domestic visitor air arrivals to Oregon increased by 5.1% over the previous year. increased by 5.1% over the previous year. The travel industry added more than 3,200 new jobs in 2018, a 2.9% increase over the prior year, bringing total statewide travel industry jobs to 115,400. In 2018, the travel and tourism industry generated $560 million in state and local taxes, an increase of 3.9% over the previous year. in state and local taxes, an increase of 3.9% over the previous year. Secondary impacts from the re-spending of travel-generated revenues by businesses and employees were equivalent to 59,960 jobs in 2017, with earnings of $3.1 billion . . The travel industry's gross domestic product was $5.5 billion in 2018. in 2018. The travel industry is one of the top three export-oriented industries in 31 of 36 Oregon counties. The findings reported by Dean Runyan Associates confirm the economic significance of the travel industry in Oregon. Read the full report here, which includes regional and county breakouts. In addition, Watch this video to see why tourism matters in Oregon. About Travel Oregon The Oregon Tourism Commission, dba Travel Oregon, works to enhance visitors' experiences by providing information, resources and trip planning tools that inspire travel and consistently convey the exceptional quality of Oregon. The commission aims to improve Oregonians' quality of life by strengthening economic impacts of the state's $12.3 billion tourism industry that employs 115,400 Oregonians. Visit Industry.TravelOregon.com to learn more about the industry's positive impacts and go to TravelOregon.com to be inspired. SOURCE Travel Oregon Related Links http://www.traveloregon.com BUDAPEST, Hungary, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Tungsram initially invests $1.5 million to create a new shop operation in its Kisvarda plant in Hungary for maintenance of aircraft engine components for GE Aviation. Within the framework of GE's Supplier Program, Tungsram has won the opportunity to extend its supply network with GE in Hungary. "We need a strong and competitive SME sector to support our infrastructure and industrial projects across the globe, therefore we put great emphasis on our supplier development initiative in the region," said Endre Ascsillan, Vice President of GE Hungary. "We are proud to see how quickly and effectively Tungsram integrated into GE's supply chain by transforming and upgrading its already existing processes and by also creating new capabilities in Kisvarda." 123 year-old brand, Tungsram was re-born by the sale of GE Lighting business in Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Turkey, as well as Global Automotive business, to Tungsram Group, controlled by Joerg Bauer, a former GE executive. Tungsram is currently one of the biggest suppliers of GE in Hungary, providing approximately 25% of Tungsram Group's revenue. Now the company is about to invests $1.5 million to create a new shop operation in its Kisvarda plant in Hungary for maintenance of aircraft engine parts for GE Aviation. Following close cooperation over the last 12 months Tungsram and utilizing the framework of GE's Supplier Development Program has won the opportunity to extend its operations with GE to become also a supplier for GE Aviation. For this new activity to meet the industry requirements, Tungsram will be audited by the European Union Aviation's Safety Agency (EASA) and also the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in the US. "This is a big milestone for Tungsram," said President & CEO of the Tungsram Group, Joerg Bauer. "The cooperation with Kisvarda allows us to enter a new growth industry. It also proves successfully our strategy of deploying the deep supply chain capabilities of Tungsram together with market leaders, like GE Aviation and GE Power and thereby creating new, solid pillars next to our Core Lighting activities." "GE Aviation has a rapidly growing portfolio of commercial engine products, all of which have long lifecycles our need for global repair and maintenance capacity is a priority, which is a key driver of our collaboration with Tungsram," added Casey Ott, Managing Director of GE Aviation Hungary Kft. SOURCE Tungsram Group IRVINE, Calif., May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Ware Malcomb, an award-winning international design firm, today announced the opening of a new office in Dallas, Texas, bringing the total number of Ware Malcomb offices across the U.S., Canada, Mexico and Panama to 23. Founded in 1972, the firm provides planning, architectural design, interior design, branding and civil engineering services for commercial real estate and corporate clients. Chris Mavros photo download: http://www.kcomm.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Christopher-Mavros.jpg The newest Ware Malcomb office is located at 1919 McKinney Avenue, Suite 100 in the arts district of Dallas. Ware Malcomb has been active in the Texas market since 2013 and currently maintains an office in Houston. Ware Malcomb also announced it has hired Chris Mavros as Regional Director to lead the new Dallas office. In this role, Mavros will be responsible for the overall growth and management of the firm's operations in Dallas, in addition to working regularly with Ware Malcomb's Houston office to collaborate on projects across the state. "We are excited to continue to expand our growing presence in the Texas market with the opening of a new office in Dallas," said Jay Todisco, Executive Vice President of Ware Malcomb. "We are also pleased to welcome Chris to the Ware Malcomb team as he leads our new operations in Dallas. His knowledge and expertise will help us to serve our clients across the state, and we look forward to his contributions in the years ahead." Mavros brings over 17 years of industry experience to his new role at Ware Malcomb. A LEED Accredited Professional, he has worked on a variety of project types throughout his career, including office, industrial, retail, medical office, higher education, mixed use, and public/institutional projects. He also has extensive experience in the areas of business development, marketing, and project management. Mavros holds a Bachelor of Architecture degree from the University of Oklahoma, and a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree from Southern Methodist University. Recent Ware Malcomb projects in Texas include: Southport Logistics Park in Dallas, Biagi Bros. distribution center in Hutchins, Dril-Quip in Houston, Sunridge Business Park in Wilmer and Medline in Katy. The firm has designed over 1 billion square feet of industrial space in North America. About Ware Malcomb (waremalcomb.com) Established in 1972, Ware Malcomb is an international design firm providing planning, architecture, interior design, branding and civil engineering services to commercial real estate and corporate clients. With 23 office locations throughout the United States, Canada, Mexico and Panama, the firm specializes in the design of commercial office, corporate, industrial, science & technology, healthcare, retail, auto, public/educational facilities and renovation projects. Ware Malcomb is recognized as an Inc. 5000 fastest-growing private company and a Hot Firm and Best Firm to Work For by Zweig Group. The firm is also ranked among the top 15 architecture/engineering firms in Engineering News-Record's Top 500 Design Firms and the top 30 interior design firms in Interior Design magazine's Top 100 Giants. For more information, visit waremalcomb.com/news and view Ware Malcomb's Design video at youtube.com/waremalcomb. Ware Malcomb Irvine 10 Edelman Irvine, CA 92618 p. 949.660.9128 CONTACT: Kelly Teenor, Director, Marketing, 949.660.9128, [email protected] Maureen Bissonnette, Associate Principal, Marketing, 949.660.9128, [email protected] SOURCE Ware Malcomb Related Links http://waremalcomb.com NEW YORK, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- In today's digital era, having an aesthetically pleasing, smooth-functioning website is a major factor for every successful business. An outdated, slow, or confusing website will have a direct negative effect on your sales and the first impressions of your company. In order to help you put your best digital-foot forward, Huemor, a web design agency , has compiled four key tips to consider during your website redesign. Check them out below. Identify what you need to change and what you need to keep. A website redesign doesn't need to be a complete overhaul of your branding and image. In fact, it shouldn't be especially if you have a sizable devoted set of customers or clients. Instead, use this opportunity to identify places your current website is struggling, whether it's loading speed, page organization, checkout processing, or visual quality. Once you identify the key problems on your website and understand your branding strengths, then you can initiate a successful website redesign plan. Explicitly outline your goals and KPIs following the redesign. Knowing what needs to improve on your website is great, but the path to improvement must be laid out for issues to be properly addressed. Do your customers fail to fully complete the checkout process? Make one of your goals to streamline and enhance the checkout funnel to be faster and smoother than your competitors. The KPI for this point is the amount of completed checkouts. Looking to guide more clients to your portfolio? One obvious solution is to make it easier for users to find the page in the top navigation, but the best solution is to incorporate your portfolio into your homepage and allow users to navigate to it if they like what they see. Your KPI in this situation is the time users spend on your portfolio and the number of visits to your portfolio page. Developing these kinds of plans and measurements from the start will help your redesign progress smoothly and give you a better ROI following the project. Define and understand your online target audience. Your business's target market may be different from what it was when you created your website or was targeted in the wrong ways from the beginning. A website redesign is a great opportunity to analyze, redefine, and understand the audience currently viewing your site and offerings. To start, research where your users are located geographically, who is buying your products or using your services, and seek out areas of potential market expansion for future business endeavors. This information will help your website redesign be tailored towards your target market, with room to appeal to more unique clients or customers as well. Bring your company into the digital age. While a website redesign can do wonders for your brands online presence, having a fully-functioning, attractive website these days is the bare minimum. Incorporating content marketing, SEO, and social media into your online footprint can have a major impact on who's visiting your website, being exposed to your advertising, and most of all, purchasing your products and services. If your website currently leaves much to be desired or simply isn't bringing the kind of traffic and business you believe it should, look into a website redesign to see just how much potential your brand can have. About Huemor: New York Website Design Company, Huemor , helps ecommerce, beauty, SaaS, B2B, and nonprofit businesses create a best-in-class website experience to drive their online growth and improve their overall bottom line. Huemor's team of designers and developers work to create memorable websites that tell your brand's story, improve your key metrics, and display your brand with pride. Balancing memorable brand experiences with user-centric design, Huemor has amassed an impressive portfolio of case studies with successful clients, helping companies build memorable digital experiences for their brand across various industries. SOURCE Huemor Related Links https://huemor.rocks PHILADELPHIA, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Aberdeen Global Income Fund, Inc. (NYSE American: FCO) (the "Fund"), a closed-end fund, today announced that it will pay on May 31, 2019, a distribution of US $0.07 per share to all shareholders of record as of May 22, 2019 (ex-dividend date May 21, 2019). Your Fund's distribution policy is to provide investors with a stable monthly distribution out of current income, supplemented by realized capital gains and, to the extent necessary, paid-in capital. Under U.S. tax rules applicable to the Fund, the amount and character of distributable income for each fiscal year can be finally determined only as of the end of the Fund's fiscal year. However, under Section 19 of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the "1940 Act") and related Rules, the Fund may be required to indicate to shareholders the source of certain distributions to shareholders. The following table sets forth the estimated amounts of the sources of the distribution for purposes of Section 19 of the 1940 Act and the Rules adopted thereunder. The table has been computed based on generally accepted accounting principles. The table includes estimated amounts and percentages for the distribution to be paid on May 31, 2019 as well as the estimated cumulative distributions declared fiscal year to date (11/01/2018 - 04/30/2019), from the following sources: net investment income; net realized short-term capital gains; net realized long-term capital gains; and return of capital. The estimated composition of the distributions may vary from month to month because the estimated composition may be impacted by future income, expenses and realized gains and losses on securities and currencies. Estimated Amounts of Current Monthly Distribution per share ($) Estimated Amounts of Current Monthly Distribution per share (%) Estimated Amounts of Fiscal Year to Date Cumulative Distributions per share ($) Estimated Amounts of Fiscal Year to Date Cumulative Distributions per share (%) Net Investment Income $0.0315 45% $0.2205 45% Net Realized Short- Term Capital Gains* - - - - Net Realized Long- Term Capital Gains - - - - Return of Capital $0.0385 55% $0.2695 55% Total (per common share) $0.0700 100% $0.4900 100% *includes currency gains The Fund estimates that it has distributed more than its income and capital gains; therefore, a portion of your distribution may be a return of capital. A return of capital may occur for example, when some or all of the money that you invested in the Fund is paid back to you. A return of capital distribution does not necessarily reflect the Fund's investment performance and should not be confused with "yield" or "income." Shareholders should not draw any conclusions about the Fund's investment performance from the amount of the Fund's current distributions or from the terms of the distribution policy (the "Distribution Policy"). The amounts and sources of distributions reported in this notice are only estimates and are not being provided for tax reporting purposes. The final determination of the source of all distributions in 2019 will be made after year-end. The actual amounts and sources of the amounts for tax reporting purposes will depend upon the Fund's investment experience during the remainder of the fiscal year and may be subject to change based on tax regulations. The Fund will send you a Form 1099-DIV for the calendar year that will tell you how to report these distributions for federal income tax purposes. The following table provides the Fund's total return performance based on net asset value (NAV) over various time periods compared to the Fund's annualized and cumulative distribution rates. Average Annual Total Return on NAV for the 5 Year Period Ending 04/30/20191 1.29% Current Fiscal Period's Annualized Distribution Rate on NAV2 10.55% Fiscal Year to Date (11/01/2018 to 04/30/2019) Cumulative Total Return on NAV1 5.00% Cumulative Distribution Rate on NAV2 5.28% 1 Return data is net of all fund expenses and fees and assumes the reinvestment of all distributions reinvested at prices obtained under the Fund's dividend reinvestment plan. 2 Based on the Fund's NAV as of April 30, 2019. While NAV performance may be indicative of the Fund's investment performance, it does not measure the value of a shareholder's investment in the Fund. The value of a shareholder's investment in the Fund is determined by the Fund's market price, which is based on the supply and demand for the Fund's shares in the open market. Pursuant to an exemptive order granted by the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 30, 2010, the Fund may distribute any long-term capital gains more frequently than the limits provided in Section 19(b) under the 1940 Act and Rule 19b-1 thereunder. Therefore, distributions paid by the Fund during the year may include net income, short-term capital gains, long-term capital gains and/or a return of capital. Net income dividends and short-term capital gain dividends, while generally taxable at ordinary income rates, may be eligible, to the extent of qualified dividend income earned by the Fund, to be taxed at a lower rate not to exceed the maximum rate applicable to your long-term capital gains. Distributions made in any calendar year in excess of investment company taxable income and net capital gain are treated as taxable ordinary dividends to the extent of undistributed earnings and profits, and then as a return of capital that reduces the adjusted basis in the shares held. To the extent return of capital distributions exceed the adjusted basis in the shares held, capital gain is recognized with a holding period based on the period the shares have been held at the date such amount is received. Shareholders should not draw any conclusions about the Fund's investment performance from the terms of the distribution policy. The final determination of the source of all distributions will be made after year-end. The actual amounts and sources of the amounts for tax reporting purposes will depend upon the Fund's investment experience during the fiscal year and may be subject to change based on tax regulations. The Fund will send you a Form 1099-DIV for the calendar year that will tell you how to report distributions for federal income tax purposes. The payment of distributions in accordance with the Distribution Policy may result in a decrease in the Fund's net assets. A decrease in the Fund's net assets may cause an increase in the Fund's annual operating expense ratio and a decrease in the Fund's market price per share to the extent the market price correlates closely to the Fund's net asset value per share. The Distribution Policy may also negatively affect the Fund's investment activities to the extent that the Fund is required to hold larger cash positions than it typically would hold or to the extent that the Fund must liquidate securities that it would not have sold, for the purpose of paying the distribution. The Fund's Board of Directors has the right to amend, suspend or terminate the Distribution Policy at any time. The amendment, suspension or termination of the Distribution Policy may affect the Fund's market price per share. Investors should consult their tax advisor regarding federal, state and local tax considerations that may be applicable in their particular circumstances. Circular 230 disclosure : To ensure compliance with requirements imposed by the U.S. Treasury, we inform you that any U.S. tax advice contained in this communication (including any attachments) is not intended or written to be used, and cannot be used, for the purpose of (i) avoiding penalties under the Internal Revenue Code or (ii) promoting, marketing or recommending to another party any transaction or matter addressed herein. Aberdeen Standard Investments is a brand of the investment businesses of Standard Life Aberdeen plc, its affiliates and subsidiaries. In the United States, Aberdeen Standard Investments is the marketing name for the following affiliated, registered investment advisers: Aberdeen Standard Investments Inc., Aberdeen Asset Managers Ltd., Aberdeen Standard Investments Australia Ltd., Aberdeen Standard Investments (Asia) Ltd., Aberdeen Capital Management, LLC, Aberdeen Standard Investments ETFs Advisors LLC and Standard Life Investments (Corporate Funds) Ltd. Closed-end funds are traded on the secondary market through one of the stock exchanges. The Fund's investment return and principal value will fluctuate so that an investor's shares may be worth more or less than the original cost. Shares of closed-end funds may trade above (a premium) or below (a discount) the net asset value (NAV) of the fund's portfolio. There is no assurance that the Fund will achieve its investment objective. Past performance does not guarantee future results. If you wish to receive this information electronically, please contact [email protected] aberdeenfco.com SOURCE Aberdeen Global Income Fund, Inc. "Checking off the boxes that are expected of us as movers in this industry is extremely important," says Able CEO Joe Singleton, "but increasingly more and more we are employing the expertise of consultants to keep us thinking outside of the box." ( www.ablemoving.com ) Able recently unveiled its new age, dynamic You2 program which encourages employees to be the best they can be and rewards these efforts with medallions. The movement was identified, developed, and implemented organically, but the leadership team structure that made this possible was set in motion by Gary Corbett, founder of Group C Advisors. "Companies that are willing to invest in change have always set the pace for the industries they are in," says Corbett, "and there are a thousand ways this is noticed by the customer." Under Corbett's guidance Able will be rolling out a company-wide Wellbeing program this year, the likes of which has not been seen in the moving industry. Encompassing financial, physical, emotional, social, philanthropic, and career oriented components, it will be networked for all employees. Who ever heard of a moving company hiring a consultant to evaluate their own move? Able did exactly this when moving their commercial division to its new home on Merritt Park Drive in Manassas. Able Cofounder Jim Singleton views this information as invaluable. "What we learned from videotaping our practices, employee surveys, interviews, and small group discussions has made us a better mover," he says. "What better way to put ourselves in our customer's shoes?" When a consultant's customer survey suggested to Able that their commercial customers found radio frequency identification (RFID) of interest, Able reached out to National Office Systems and immediately invested heavily in making it happen. Business secured recently from a large DC law firm was attributed to Able's ability to preserve document chain of custody, made possible by RFID. Paying 50% of health insurance premiums for an employee's entire family is more than many companies along the toll road do for their employees, and Able also offers a matching 401k, 100% employer-funded profit sharing, and paid holidays and time off. The CEO of Able, Joe Singleton, makes time to have an annual 1 on 1 with every employee in the company to not only hear their concerns, but to listen to their ideas. "Our family does not answer to what some other company is willing to pay for an employee or what they are willing to do for a customer," Singleton says, "We just don't make decisions that way and never will." Check out our website at www.ablemoving.com Follow us on Twitter @ablemovinginc Like us on [email protected] SOURCE Able Moving & Storage Related Links http://www.ablemoving.com An inspirational speaker recognized for his successful TEDTalks, Diamandis is known for innovative speeches about accomplishing the impossible and navigating challenges to achieve goals. In his keynote, Diamandis will discuss business innovation in our fast-paced, digital world. In addition, he will cover technology innovation, digital disruptions, and the opportunities that businesses have once they embrace both the challenges and triumphs for digital transformation. "Peter inspires audiences to drive breakthrough thinking and innovation and that relates to today's business planners and the challenges they face in this age of urgency," said Connie DeWitt, chief marketing officer at Adaptive Insights. "At Adaptive Live 2019, Peter will share ways that individuals can contribute to their organization's digital transformation journey and empower them to deliver on our conference theme, 'Plan for What's Next.'" This year's Adaptive Live conference expects to attract more than 1,600 business planning professionals. In addition to Diamandis, Adaptive Insights CEO Tom Bogan, Founder Rob Hull, and Chief Product Officer Bhaskar Himatsingka will also be speaking to attendees about achieving business agility with an active planning process and platform. Diamandis is no stranger to hard work and is a strong advocate of pursuing dreams. As an entrepreneur, Diamandis has started over 20 companies in the areas of longevity, space, venture capital, and education. He is also co-founder of BOLD Capital Partners, a venture fund with $250M investing in exponential technologies. He has earned degrees in molecular genetics and aerospace engineering from MIT and holds an M.D. from Harvard Medical School. "We live in an amazing time, and one where technology and innovation are changing the speed of business," said Diamandis. "I'm energized by the opportunity to share my views on digital innovation with business planners from across the globe and the impact they can have on their organizations in what is arguably the greatest period of transformation we'll see in our lifetimes." For more about Adaptive Live 2019 and the guest keynote, read the blog " Put it all on planning at Adaptive Live 2019 ." About Adaptive Insights Adaptive Insights, a Workday company, is powering a new generation of business planning. Driving business agility in a fast-moving world, Adaptive Insights Business Planning Cloud leads the way for people in companies to collaborate, gain insights, and make smarter decisions, faster. Powerful modeling for any size organization, yet so easy for everybody who plans. To learn more, visit www.adaptiveinsights.com . 2019 Workday, Inc. All rights reserved. Adaptive Insights and the Adaptive Insights logo are registered trademarks of Adaptive Insights, Inc. All other brand and product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective holders. SOURCE Adaptive Insights Related Links https://www.adaptiveinsights.com/ MONTREAL and BOSTON, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Akuting, a provider of Sales and Marketing optimization solutions, is delighted to announce it successfully implemented the first bpm'online clients, Batirente and the City of Fort Saskatchewan, on its new Canadian Cloud. Bpm'online is a global business software company leading in the space of low-code, process automation and CRM. Its products include out-of-the-box best practice processes for marketing, sales, and service to help businesses all over the world accelerate the four key pillars of the transformation cycle: implementation, adoption, alignment and change. "Akuting has been an outstanding resource in the selection and implementation of bpm'online as a CRM solution for Batirente. The data hosting capacity in Canada, Akuting's understanding of our needs and the flexibility of the solution have been important criteria for us in choosing bpm'online," said Eric Filion, Chief Operating Officer at Batirente. "Bpm'online has been an excellent resource for us. The flexibility of the platform allows us to customize it for our needs, both from an investment attraction and business retention perspective. It allows us to easily manage the data we require to deliver the services our resident's demand of our department," said Mark Morrissey, Director of Economic Development at the City of Fort Saskatchewan. Sharing common values of excellence, expertise and innovation Akuting and bpm'online are committed to empowering clients with the intelligent low-code, CRM and BPM technologies that help businesses manage the complete customer journey and accelerate sales, marketing, service and operations. With the SaaS market to surpass $112.8 billion by 2019, cloud-based CRM solutions will accelerate the digital transformation of companies providing them with the needed level of agility and flexibility to constantly reinvent their organizations to meet the needs of the ever-demanding digitally native customers. Akuting Services Inc. helps innovative companies accelerate their growth by assisting in the digital transformation of the client experience and the optimization of the Sales and Marketing process. Learn more at www.akuting.com. Bpm'online is a global business software company leading in the space of low-code, process automation and CRM. The company has been highly recognized as a market leader by key industry analysts. Its intelligent platform accelerates sales, marketing, service and operations for thousands of customers and hundreds of partners worldwide. The mission of bpm'online is to help companies ACCELERATE! For more information, please visit www.bpmonline.com. Batirente is a group retirement system created in 1987 at the initiative of the CSN. It allows 22,000 workers, grouped in 300 labour unions, to benefit from pension plans tailored to their needs by pooling their savings. A pioneer in responsible investing in Quebec, Batirente believes that actively managing its investee companies' environmental, social and governance (ESG) risks helps ensure long-term economic and social development, as well as sound capitalization of the pension plan, which are both required for sustainable financial performance. Home to more than 26,000 people, the City of Fort Saskatchewan is a vibrant economic and cultural hub located just 15 minutes northeast of Edmonton on the banks of the North Saskatchewan River. Contact: Frederic Brosseau President (514) 703-1159 Photos: https://www.prlog.org/12769090 Press release distributed by PRLog SOURCE Akuting Related Links https://akuting.com OAKVILLE, ON, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ - Algonquin Power & Utilities Corp. ("APUC") (TSX/NYSE: AQN) announced today that the Board of Directors of APUC approved a dividend increase of U.S. $0.0512 annually per common share to a total dividend of U.S. $0.5640 per common share, paid quarterly at a rate of U.S. $0.1410 per common share. APUC also announced today that the Board has declared a dividend of U.S. $0.1410 per share on its common shares, payable on July 15, 2019 to the shareholders of record on June 28, 2019 for the period from April 1, 2019 to June 30, 2019. Shareholders receiving dividends in cash can elect to receive the dividend in Canadian dollars in the amount of C$0.1899. The common share dividend will be paid in cash or, if a shareholder has enrolled in the shareholder dividend reinvestment plan (the "Plan"), dividends will be reinvested in additional shares ("Plan Shares") of APUC as per the Plan. Plan Shares will be acquired by way of a Treasury Purchase at the average market price as defined in the Plan less a 5% discount. Pursuant to the Income Tax Act (Canada) and corresponding provincial legislation, APUC hereby notifies its common shareholders that such dividends declared qualify as eligible dividends. The quarterly dividends payable on common shares are declared in U.S. dollars. Beneficial shareholders (those who hold common shares through a financial intermediary) who are resident in Canada or the United States may request to receive their dividends in either U.S. dollars or the Canadian dollar equivalent by contacting the financial intermediary with whom the common shares are held. Unless the Canadian dollar equivalent is requested, shareholders will receive dividends in U.S. dollars, which, as is often the case, the financial intermediary may convert to Canadian dollars. Registered shareholders receive dividend payments in the currency of residency. Registered shareholders may opt to change the payment currency by contacting AST Trust Company (Canada) at 1-800-387-0825 prior to the record date of the dividend. The Canadian dollar equivalent of the quarterly dividend is based on the Bank of Canada daily average exchange rate on the day before the declaration date. About Algonquin Power & Utilities Corp. APUC is a diversified generation, transmission and distribution utility with approximately $9.7 billion of total assets. Through its two business groups, APUC provides rate-regulated natural gas, water, and electricity generation, transmission, and distribution utility services to approximately 770,000 connections in the United States, and is committed to being a global leader in the generation of clean energy through ownership of or investments in longterm contracted wind, solar and hydroelectric generating facilities representing over 2 GW of installed capacity. APUC delivers continuing growth through an expanding pipeline of renewable energy, electric transmission, and water infrastructure development projects with a global focus, organic growth within its rate-regulated generation, distribution and transmission businesses, and the pursuit of accretive acquisitions. APUC's common shares, Series A preferred shares, and Series D preferred shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbols AQN, AQN.PR.A, and AQN.PR.D. APUC's common shares and Series 2018-A subordinated notes are also listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbols AQN and AQNA. Visit APUC at www.algonquinpowerandutilities.com and follow us on Twitter @AQN_Utilities. SOURCE Algonquin Power & Utilities Corp. Related Links http://www.algonquinpower.com DUBLIN, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Allergan plc (NYSE: AGN) today announced that Chief Financial Officer Matthew Walsh will participate in a fireside chat at the Bank of America Merrill Lynch 2019 Health Care Conference in Las Vegas, Nevada. The presentation will begin at 10:40 a.m. Pacific Time (1:40 p.m. Eastern Time) on Tuesday, May 14, 2019. The presentation will be webcast live and can be accessed on Allergan's Investor Relations website at https://www.allergan.com/investors/events-presentations. The webcast can also be accessed through the following URL: https://www.veracast.com/webcasts/baml/healthcare2019/id45106198658.cfm An archived version will be available following the live presentation and can be accessed at the same location for 90 days. About Allergan plc Allergan plc (NYSE: AGN), headquartered in Dublin, Ireland, is a global pharmaceutical leader focused on developing, manufacturing and commercializing branded pharmaceutical, device, biologic, surgical and regenerative medicine products for patients around the world. Allergan markets a portfolio of leading brands and best-in-class products primarily focused on four key therapeutic areas including medical aesthetics, eye care, central nervous system and gastroenterology. As part of its approach to delivering innovation for better patient care, Allergan has built one of the broadest pharmaceutical and device research and development pipelines in the industry. With colleagues and commercial operations located in approximately 100 countries, Allergan is committed to working with physicians, healthcare providers and patients to deliver innovative and meaningful treatments that help people around the world live longer, healthier lives every day. For more information, visit Allergan's website at www.Allergan.com . CONTACTS: Allergan: Investors: Manisha Narasimhan, PhD (862) 261-7162 Christine Chiou (862) 261-7396 Media: Amy Rose (862) 289-3072 Lisa Brown (862) 261-7320 SOURCE Allergan plc Related Links www.allergan.com AGOURA HILLS, Calif., May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- American Homes 4 Rent (NYSE: AMH), a leading provider of high-quality single-family homes for rent, today announced that Dann V. Angeloff, age 83, has completed his term pursuant to the company's mandatory retirement policy for trustees and, accordingly, did not stand for re-election to the Board of Trustees of American Homes 4 Rent. Mr. Angeloff served as a trustee and Chairman of the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee of the Board since November 2012. He also served on the Board of Trustees of Public Storage for more than 30 years and as a director of many more public companies. Mr. Angeloff is also one of the founders of the National Association of Corporate Directors (NACD) and is the former Chairman and President and currently Founding Chairman of the Southern California NACD Chapter. "We express our gratitude to Dann Angeloff for his years of dedication and service to our Board and his contributions to the success of American Homes 4 Rent," said David Singelyn, American Homes 4 Rent's Chief Executive Officer and Trustee. "We wish Mr. Angeloff the best in his future endeavors." About American Homes 4 Rent American Homes 4 Rent (NYSE: AMH) is a leader in the single-family home rental industry and "American Homes 4 Rent" is fast becoming a nationally recognized brand for rental homes, known for high-quality, good value and tenant satisfaction. We are an internally managed Maryland real estate investment trust, or REIT, focused on acquiring, developing, renovating, leasing, and operating attractive, singlefamily homes as rental properties. As of March 31, 2019 , we owned 52,923 single-family properties in selected submarkets in 22 states. Additional information about American Homes 4 Rent is available on our website at http://www.americanhomes4rent.com Contact: American Homes 4 Rent Investor Relations Phone: (855) 794-2447 Email: [email protected] SOURCE American Homes 4 Rent Related Links https://www.americanhomes4rent.com VANCOUVER, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ - American Hotel Income Properties REIT LP ("AHIP") (TSX: HOT.UN, HOT.U, and HOT.DB.U) announced today that at its annual and special meeting of unitholders, held earlier today, all directors nominated as listed in the information circular dated April 5, 2019 were directed to be elected as directors of American Hotel Income Properties REIT (GP) Inc. for the ensuing year. As a ballot was not required, the number of votes disclosed in the below table reflects only the proxies received by management of AHIP in advance of the meeting. DIRECTOR VOTES FOR % VOTES WITHHELD % W. Michael Murphy 10,671,480 94.86 578,689 5.14 Charles van der Lee 10,756,796 95.61 493,373 4.39 Minaz Abji 10,726,736 95.35 523,433 4.65 Stephen J. Evans 10,854,275 96.48 395,894 3.52 Richard Frank 10,739,462 95.46 510,707 4.54 Tamara L. Lawson 10,726,514 95.35 523,655 4.65 Robert O'Neill 10,684,136 94.97 566,033 5.03 Elizabeth Walters 10,720,187 95.29 529,982 4.71 AHIP has also filed a report of voting results of all resolutions voted on at this meeting on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. ABOUT AMERICAN HOTEL INCOME PROPERTIES REIT LP American Hotel Income Properties REIT LP (TSX: HOT.UN, TSX: HOT.U, TSX: HOT.DB.U), or AHIP, is a limited partnership formed to invest in hotel real estate properties located in the United States. AHIP currently has 112 hotels, and is engaged in growing its portfolio of premium branded, select-service hotels in larger secondary markets that have diverse and stable demand. AHIP hotels operate under brands affiliated with Marriott, Hilton, IHG, Wyndham and Choice Hotels through license agreements. The company's long-term objectives are to build on its proven track record of successful investment, deliver reliable and consistent U.S. dollar denominated distributions to unitholders, and generate value through the continued growth of its diversified hotel portfolio. More information is available at www.ahipreit.com. SOURCE American Hotel Income Properties REIT LP Related Links www.ahipreit.com SAN JOSE, Calif., May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Asetek, the creator of the all-in-one liquid cooler and the global leader in liquid cooling solutions for gaming PCs and DIY enthusiasts, announced that its latest generation of liquid cooling technology powers EVGA's new GeForce RTX 2080 Ti K|NGP|N Hybrid GPU cooler. This is the ultimate solution for hardcore gamers and enthusiasts. Asetek's sixth generation (Gen6) liquid cooling technology enables extreme performance with minimal noise, to provide targeted cooling of ultra high-end GPUs to ensure advanced overclocking capabilities. In developing the all-in-one RTX 2080 Ti K|NGP|N Hybrid GPU Cooler, Asetek and EVGA worked together to create a plug & play cooling solution that would support GeForce RTX graphics cards powered by NVIDIA Turing GPU architecture. The new flagship GPU is equipped with a 240mm radiator that is 30mm thick for robust heat dissipation. The EVGA 20-Series Hybrid cooling allows for independently controlled VRM and radiator fans with Precision X1. The 2080 Ti K|NGP|N Hybrid features a Hydro Dynamic Bearing fan to cool the VRM and provide lower noise and a longer lifespan. The VRM and memory cooling is separated from the GPU, allowing for the lowest GPU temperatures and efficient VRM and memory cooling. In addition, the new fan blades, rotational direction, and hub are designed for quiet and efficient operation. Vital GPU data can be displayed on the card's OLED screen, for added style and at-a-glance performance monitoring. "The K|NGP|N is synonymous with bleeding edge performance and extreme overclocking potential," said Jacob Freeman, Global Product Management Director at EVGA. "For the first time ever on a K|NGP|N card, we are using a HYBRID solution with an Asetek Gen6 pump which enables the lowest temps on any K|NGP|N card to date." "With Asetek's Gen6 liquid coolers powering EVGA's new GeForce RTX 2080 Ti KINGPIN Hybrid GPU Cooler, gamers and DIY enthusiasts get it all extreme performance combined with silent operation with plenty of room for overclocking," said John Hamill, Chief Operating Officer at Asetek. "We're thrilled to see EVGA expand its Asetek-based RTX 2080 Ti Hybrid Cooler series. High-end GPUs are often the most exciting component for gamers and this is the cream of the crop." To learn more about Asetek liquid cooling, please visit www.asetek.com . About EVGA EVGA is the #1 NVIDIA authorized partner in channel sales throughout North America. Based on the philosophy of intelligent innovation, market knowledge, and the real time operation, EVGA continues to identify the need in the market place and providing the solution to that need. By offering product differentiation, 24/7 tech support, a 90 day Step-Up program, and other customer focused programs, EVGA is a clear leader in all categories: etail, retail, distribution, and system builders. With headquarters in Brea, CA, EVGA's global coverage includes EVGA GmbH in Munich, EVGA LATAM in Miami, and EVGA Hong Kong. For further information online about EVGA, visit www.evga.com . About Asetek Asetek, the creator of the all-in-one liquid cooler, is the global leader for liquid cooling solutions for high performance gaming and enthusiast PCs, and environmentally aware data centers. Founded in 2000, Asetek is headquartered in Denmark and has operations in China, Taiwan and the United States. Asetek is listed on the Oslo Stock Exchange (ASETEK.OL). www.asetek.com Media contact Margo Westfall Asetek Sr. Marketing Manager +1 408 644.5616 [email protected] This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com https://news.cision.com/asetek/r/asetek-gen6-liquid-cooling-technology-powers-ultra-high-end-gpu-hybrid-cooler-from-evga,c2807481 The following files are available for download: https://mb.cision.com/Main/6758/2807481/1040344.pdf Asetek Gen6 Liquid Cooling Technology Powers Ultra High-End GPU Hybrid Cooler from EVGA https://news.cision.com/asetek/i/evga-geforce-rtx-2080-ti-k-ngp-n-hypbrid-gpu-cooler,c2622236 EVGA GeForce RTX 2080 Ti K|NGP|N Hypbrid GPU Cooler SOURCE Asetek TSX |NYSE: ACB EDMONTON, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ - Aurora Cannabis Inc. ("Aurora" or the "Company") (TSX: ACB) (NYSE: ACB) (Frankfurt: 21P; WKN: A1C4WM) announced today that the Company, through its wholly owned subsidiary Aurora Deutschland, has been selected by the Luxembourg Health Ministry as the exclusive supplier in a public bid to supply a second delivery of medical cannabis to Luxembourg. Under the terms of the bid, the medical cannabis produced will be sold to Luxembourg's Division de la Pharmacie et des Medicaments, representing the second time the Company has received an order directly from the Luxembourg government. While the initial bid quantities are small, the award confirms Aurora's position as a trusted and preferred supplier to international jurisdictions and reflects the Company's ability to work with local governments and regulators in complex, restricted markets. "We are proud to continue serving as the exclusive supplier of medical cannabis to the Luxembourg Health Ministry," said Neil Belot, Chief Global Business Development Officer. "Adding to the many achievements of our European team, which also includes our recent selection as one of only three companies to establish domestic production in Germany, our expanded supply agreement with Luxembourg reinforces Aurora's ability to act as a trusted partner that can readily meet the complex needs of diverse international markets." Maximilian Weinberg, Associate Director of Aurora's EU Business Development, added, "As the established market leader across Europe, Aurora is exceptionally well positioned to leverage our significant early mover advantage to accommodate the growth of new medical cannabis markets as opportunities arise. We're proud of our teams' achievements to date and look forward to supplying patients in Luxembourg with improved access to high quality medical cannabis." About Aurora Headquartered in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada with funded capacity in excess of 625,000 kg per annum and sales and operations in 24 countries across five continents, Aurora is one of the world's largest and leading cannabis companies. Aurora is vertically integrated and horizontally diversified across every key segment of the value chain, from facility engineering and design to cannabis breeding and genetics research, cannabis and hemp production, derivatives, high value-add product development, home cultivation, wholesale and retail distribution. Highly differentiated from its peers, Aurora has established a uniquely advanced, consistent and efficient production strategy, based on purpose-built facilities that integrate leading-edge technologies across all processes, defined by extensive automation and customization, resulting in the massive scale production of high-quality product at low cost. Intended to be replicable and scalable globally, our production facilities are designed to produce cannabis of significant scale, with high quality, industry-leading yields, and low per gram production costs. Each of Aurora's facilities is built to meet EU GMP standards. EU GMP certification has been granted to Aurora's first production facility in Mountain View County, the MedReleaf Markham facility, and its wholly owned European medical cannabis distributor Aurora Deutschland. In addition to the Company's rapid organic growth and strong execution on strategic M&A, which to date includes 16 wholly owned subsidiary companies MedReleaf, CanvasRX, Peloton Pharmaceutical, Aurora Deutschland, H2 Biopharma, Urban Cultivator, BC Northern Lights, Larssen Greenhouses, CanniMed Therapeutics, Anandia, HotHouse Consulting, MED Colombia, Agropro, Borela, ICC Labs, and Whistler Aurora is distinguished by its reputation as a partner and employer of choice in the global cannabis sector, having invested in and established strategic partnerships with a range of leading innovators, including: Radient Technologies Inc. (TSXV: RTI), Hempco Food and Fiber Inc. (TSXV: HEMP), Cann Group Ltd. (ASX: CAN), Micron Waste Technologies Inc. (CSE: MWM), Choom Holdings Inc. (CSE: CHOO), Capcium Inc. (private), Evio Beauty Group (private), Wagner Dimas (private), CTT Pharmaceuticals (OTCC: CTTH), Alcanna Inc. (TSX: CLIQ), High Tide Inc. (CSE: HITI), and EnWave Corporation (TSXV: ENW). Aurora's Common Shares trade on the TSX and NYSE under the symbol "ACB", and are a constituent of the S&P/TSX Composite Index. For more information about Aurora, please visit our investor website, investor.auroramj.com Neither the TSX, NYSE nor their Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX and NYSE) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Terry Booth, CEO Aurora Cannabis Inc. Forward-Looking Statements This news release includes statements containing certain "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities law ("forward-looking statements"), including, but not limited to, statements with respect to the performance of the Company. Forward-looking statements are frequently characterized by words such as "plan", "continue", "expect", "project", "intend", "believe", "anticipate", "estimate", "may", "will", "potential", "proposed" and other similar words, or statements that certain events or conditions "may" or "will" occur, and include, but are not limited to statements regarding the construction and completion of the Company's production facility in Germany, and the production capacity of the facility. These statements are only predictions. Various assumptions were used in drawing the conclusions or making the projections contained in the forward-looking statements throughout this news release. Forward-looking statements are 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 projected in the forward-looking statements. The Company is under no obligation, and expressly disclaims any intention or obligation, to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as expressly required by applicable law. SOURCE Aurora Cannabis Inc. Related Links https://auroramj.com/ Unleashing the power of millions of beauty entrepreneurs with integrated app to manage and promote their business from their mobile Beauty entrepreneurs in Mexico, Russia, and Philippines amongst those to use the app this year LONDON, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Avon Products, Inc. (NYSE: AVP), a globally recognised leader in direct selling of beauty products, has announced the launch of a new mobile app to support millions of micro-entrepreneurs to manage their businesses on the go. 'Avon On' rolled out to 17 markets worldwide after successful trials in the UK. The launch marks the next step in Avon's digital transformation, opening up access to the brand with high-tech and high-touch solutions. This first wave roll-out includes Mexico, Russia, and Philippines, with a further 25 markets from across Europe, Latin America, and Africa launching the app from July 2019. The app will help Representatives increase their productivity and manage their business easier and faster, whilst harnessing the power of their own networks through enhanced social sharing capabilities. Key features include latest product and promotion notifications, order placing, easy access to support features including FAQs and Avon contact centres, a sharable link to the instant messaging brochure and a social media hub. The social media hub will support Representatives to reach and engage their audience with high quality brand and product content, alongside tailored messaging that suits their own business and customer needs - because she knows her customers best. It showcases content from the new content studio, providing multi-platform outputs delivered directly to the app on a weekly basis for Representatives to share with their online communities. A 'share your look' feature also enables Representatives to produce user generated content in just three simple steps, showcasing Avon inspired beauty looks with fun and creative branded borders and wraps. It leverages the power of Avon's Representative network of trusted advisors and beauty influencers by providing the tools and knowledge to create their own authentic on-brand content. Nick Burton, Vice President Digital Development, says: "Avon has built the world's largest network of female entrepreneurs and we are relentless in our focus on making Her successful. Providing our beauty entrepreneurs with a one stop shop to boost their business from their mobile is key to unleashing the power of digital for our Representatives, and increasing the flexibility of the Avon opportunity." As the app is developed, Avon will continue to pilot and launch new functionality to help support its beauty entrepreneurs to unlock their full earnings potential. About Avon Products Inc. For 130 years Avon has stood for women: providing innovative, quality beauty products which are primarily sold to women, through women. Millions of independent sales Representatives across the world sell iconic Avon brands such as Avon Color and ANEW through their social networks, building their own beauty businesses on a full- or part-time basis. Avon supports women's empowerment, entrepreneurship and well-being and has donated over $1billion to women's causes through Avon and the Avon Foundation. Learn more about Avon and its products at www.avonworldwide.com. #Stand4Her Forward-Looking Statements This material contains "forward-looking statements" that are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including statements relating to the mobile app launch and Avon's transformation. Because forward-looking statements inherently involve risks and uncertainties, actual future results may differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, the possibility of business disruption, competitive uncertainties, and general economic and business conditions in Avon's markets as well as the other risks detailed in Avon's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Avon undertakes no obligation to update any statements in this material after it is posted to the Investor Relations section of our website. SOURCE Avon Products, Inc. Related Links http://www.avon.com THIEF RIVER FALLS, Minn., May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Digi-Key Electronics, a global electronic components distributor, was honored with Bel Distributor of the Year for 2018 award at the 2019 EDS Banquet in Las Vegas, NV. The criteria of this award is based on overall sales, sales growth, marketing support, and customer service. The award was presented by Pete Bittner, Dan Bernstein, and Dennis Ackerman at Bel and given to Andy Thomason, David Stein, Matt Nemec, Dave Doherty, and Chris Beeson at Digi-Key. Bel Presents Digi-Key with Distributor of the Year for 2018 Award Bel and its groups are primarily engaged in the design, manufacture and sale of products used in networking, telecommunications, high-speed data transmission, commercial aerospace, military, transportation, and consumer electronics. Bel's broad power, protection, and connectivity solutions product portfolios are available for immediate shipment globally from Digi-Key. For more information, or to order from Digi-Key's full line of Bel products, please visit any of Digi-Key's global websites. About Digi-Key Electronics Digi-Key Electronics, headquartered in Thief River Falls, Minn., USA, is an authorized global, full-service distributor of electronic components, offering more than 8.7 million products, with over 1.7 million in stock and available for immediate shipment, from over 800 quality name-brand manufacturers. Digi-Key also offers a wide variety of online resources such as EDA and design tools, datasheets, reference designs, instructional articles and videos, multimedia libraries, and much more. Technical support is available 24/7 via email, phone and webchat. Additional information and access to Digi-Key's broad product offering can be found by visiting www.digikey.com. Editorial Contact for Digi-Key Electronics Kayla Krosschell PR & Marketing Communications Specialist 1.800.338.4105 x1098 [email protected] [email protected] SOURCE Digi-Key Electronics Related Links http://www.digikey.com BURLINGTON, Vt., May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Ben & Jerry's has convened a new Dairy Advisory Council comprised of experts in environmental health, the animal protection movement, Lake Champlain water quality, and organic farming to help the company achieve its newly refined Values-Led Dairy Vision. The company's vision is that all dairy used by Ben & Jerry's in the manufacture of its products will be sourced from dairy farms which have: thriving and dignified livelihoods for farmers and farm workers; exceptional animal welfare standards for cows; a flourishing ecosystem in which feed is grown ecologically, without use of harmful chemicals or GMOs, and in a way that protects water resources and promotes biological diversity; and, farm operations acting as a net carbon sink through minimizing greenhouse gas emissions and sequestering carbon in the soil. "Our Values-led Dairy Vision is based on what our fans have a right to expect of us," said Dave Rapaport, Ben & Jerry's Global Social Mission Officer. "While we're proud of the progress we've made over the past decade in helping farmers build soil health, improve animal welfare and increase the sustainability of their farms through our industry-leading Caring Dairy program, we know there is still a long way to go in achieving our vision. This new, independent council will provide ideas and advice as we develop a long-term roadmap for our goals, with objectives and milestones along the way." Each member of the Dairy Advisory Council has been chosen for his or her expertise in a certain field, and has been encouraged to challenge Ben & Jerry's assumptions and approach. The Council members are: Dorn Cox, organic farmer and Research Director of Wolfe's Neck Center for Agriculture and the Environment Heather Darby , UVM Extension Professor and Agronomy Specialist , UVM Extension Professor and Agronomy Specialist Scott Faber , environmental advocate , environmental advocate Sarah Flack , grass-based livestock production consultant , grass-based livestock production consultant Leah Garces , President of Mercy for Animals , President of Mercy for Animals Gary Kjelleren , Chair of the Lake Champlain Committee The Council's first meeting was held earlier this week. "We expect this knowledgeable group of external stakeholders will keep us focused on our commitments and help us hold ourselves accountable," said Ben & Jerry's Values-Led Sourcing Manager, Cheryl Pinto. "We're proud of the work Vermont dairy farmers have done with Ben & Jerry's, and we know we have a long way to go to achieve our vision. Dairy farmers are facing increasingly complex issues and we recognize the need for the Council's advice and insight in helping us build a program which brings about beneficial outcomes for all." Ben & Jerry's sources most of the milk and cream for North America from members of the St. Albans Cooperative. In 2011 the company initiated its Caring Dairy program to support family farms in sustainable agricultural practices, high-quality animal care and dignified conditions for farm workers. In 2017 the company reached an historic agreement to implement the worker-driven Milk with Dignity program, alongside Caring Dairy, to assure farm worker rights. About Ben & Jerry's As an aspiring social justice company, Ben & Jerry's believes in a greater calling than simply making a profit for selling its goods. The company produces a wide variety of super-premium ice cream, yogurt and sorbet using high-quality ingredients. Ben & Jerry's incorporates its vision of Linked Prosperity into its business practices in a number of ways including a focus on values-led sourcing. In 2015 the company completed its transition to using entirely non-GMO (genetically modified organisms) ingredients by source as well as to fully source Fairtrade-certified ingredients wherever possible, which benefits farmers in developing countries. Ben and Jerry's products are distributed in 35 countries in supermarkets, grocery stores, convenience stores, franchise Ben & Jerry's Scoop Shops, restaurants and other venues. Ben & Jerry's, a Vermont corporation and wholly-owned subsidiary of Unilever, operates its business on a three-part Mission Statement emphasizing product quality, economic reward and a commitment to the community. Ben & Jerry's became a certified B Corp (Benefit Corporation) in 2012. The Ben & Jerry's Foundation's employee-led grant programs totaled $2.7MM in 2018 to support grassroots organizing for social and environmental justice around the country. SOURCE Ben & Jerry's By The Gateway Pundit, May 08, 2019 Congressman Jim Jordan (R-OH) refused to back down to Chairman Nadler during a hearing Wednesday and it was epic. Jordan, a minority member of the House Judiciary Committee, went off the Democrats for holding Bill Barr in contempt of Congress for following the law. FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla., May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- BizBash Live returns Wednesday, May 22, for its 10th year in South Florida at the Fort Lauderdale Convention Center. Hundreds of event professionals will be on hand as the annual trade show and conference celebrates industry game-changers, uncovers fresh ideas and trends, and connects the biggest names in events. New this year, BizBash will recognize the stars of the industry at an induction ceremony to the BizBash Hall of Fame, an event that will double as the event's after-party. Among those being honored are Larry Carrino, president of Brustman Carrino Public Relations; Richard Curran, Sr., owner of Expo Convention Contractors; Karla Dascal, founder of the Sacred Space Miami; Bruce Orosz, C.E.O. of ACT Productions; and Alain Perez, C.E.O. of Eventstar. Also new for 2019, BizBash Live will introduce a new education format, featuring experience hubs on the exhibit floor. These hubs will give attendees the opportunity to sit in on Q&As, demos, educational presentations, and more with Chris Weinberg of Chris Weinberg Events, Aaron Kaufman of Fifth Element Group, Kelly Murphy of Events on the Loose, and other elite event pros. Along with the hubs, the Event Innovation Forum will feature insightful speakers addressing today's most important topics in the industry. This year's lineup includes Rodney Barreto, chairman of Miami Super Bowl LIV Host Committee; Randy Fisher, president and founder of CREaM; Laura Hutfless, partner at FlyteVu; Diane Vidoni, chief operating officer at eMerge Americas; and SiiNC Agency's Isabel Chattas, co-founder and C.O.O., and Sandra Novas, co-founder and C.C.O. BizBash Live is where innovation meets the events. Every year, new event tech, activations, products, and services make their debut to attendees. This year, Gramercy Tech is set to launch its latest gadget, SelfieBot. Standing 6 feet tall, SelfieBot is the world's first robotic photo booth and will roam the floor having interactions with attendees and exhibitors, taking photos and sharing instant prints. Attendees will also find the Lapel Project, creators of interchangeable suit lapels; MirMir, the go-to photo booth for celebrities; and Nook Event Pods by the Deondo Company, which provide intimate spaces for guests to network, collaborate, and even record something for GatherGeeks, the BizBash podcast. The full list of speakers, exhibitors, sponsors, and registration information can be found at www.bizbashlive.com/florida. For media and press coverage, please contact Brittany Bucceroni at [email protected]. ABOUT BIZBASH BizBash empowers event professionals with ideas, intelligence, and resources to create smarter events. Each month, the most elite names in events across North America look to BizBash for venue discovery, event style, technology, and tools for their next event. Visit us at www.bizbash.com . Follow us at @BizBash on Twitter and Instagram or www.facebook.com/bizbash . SOURCE BizBash Related Links http://www.bizbash.com MARLBOROUGH, Mass., May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Boston Scientific (NYSE: BSX) today announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Vertiflex, Inc., a privately-held company which has developed and commercialized the Superion Indirect Decompression System, a minimally-invasive device used to improve physical function and reduce pain in patients with lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS). The procedure primarily performed by physicians who treat chronic pain patients with therapies including spinal cord stimulation and radiofrequency ablation is expected to reach $60 million in sales in 2019. The transaction consists of $465 million in upfront cash and additional payments contingent on commercial milestones for the next three years. As many as six million people in the U.S. suffer from LSS, the narrowing of the spinal canal, which can cause compression of nearby nerves and result in significant low back and leg pain, disability, functional impairment and diminished quality of life.1 The Superion System approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2015 for patients with moderate degenerative LSS creates space between the spinous processes of the vertebrae. The creation of this space reduces pressure on the nerves and can thereby improve patient mobility and relieve pain, numbness and cramping in the legs. This procedure is a treatment option for patients who have not responded positively to first-line therapies, such as oral pain medication and steroid injections, but do not have severe enough symptoms to require spinal fusion or laminectomy. "The acquisition of Vertiflex and the Superion System will further our category leadership strategy by expanding the breadth of our pain management product offerings," said Maulik Nanavaty, president, Neuromodulation, Boston Scientific. "The addition of this differentiated technology, along with our leading spinal cord stimulation and radiofrequency ablation technologies, will provide physicians with the widest variety of solutions available to manage the growing number of patients suffering from chronic pain." The Superion System was shown to be a safe and effective treatment option for patients with moderate degenerative LSS in the pivotal, two-year, randomized trial with approximately 400 patients which supported FDA approval.2 These patients were followed for five years and final follow-up with more than 80 patients demonstrated 84 percent of patients treated with the Superion System experienced clinical success on at least two of three questionnaire measures of symptom severity, physical function and patient satisfaction. Additionally, 90 percent of patients were satisfied with the treatment, and the therapy successfully treated leg pain in 80 percent of patients in the long-term follow-up cohort.3 Recently published data also showed an 85 percent decrease in the proportion of patients who were using opioids five years after being treated with the Superion System.4 "Five-year clinical data and real-world experience with the Superion System demonstrate that this minimally invasive and reversable procedure done without destabilizing the spine can offer patients safe, long-term pain relief with a relatively rapid recovery time," said Earl Fender, president and CEO of Vertiflex. "We are proud of the clinical and commercial successes we've been able to achieve and look forward to continued adoption of the therapy with the global resources and clinical expertise of the Boston Scientific pain management franchise." The transaction is expected to be immaterial to adjusted earnings per share in 2019 and 2020, and accretive thereafter. On a GAAP basis, the transaction is expected to be less accretive, or more dilutive as the case may be, due to amortization expense and acquisition-related net charges. The acquisition is projected to close late in the second quarter of 2019, subject to customary closing conditions. Vertiflex, founded in 2005, is based in Carlsbad, CA and has approximately 100 employees. Additional information about Vertiflex and the Superion System can be found at www.vertiflex.com. About Boston Scientific Boston Scientific transforms lives through innovative medical solutions that improve the health of patients around the world. As a global medical technology leader for 40 years, we advance science for life by providing a broad range of high performance solutions that address unmet patient needs and reduce the cost of healthcare. For more information, visit www.bostonscientific.com and connect on Twitter and Facebook. Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Forward-looking statements may be identified by words like "anticipate," "expect," "project," "believe," "plan," "estimate," "intend" and similar words. These forward-looking statements are based on our beliefs, assumptions and estimates using information available to us at the time and are not intended to be guarantees of future events or performance. These forward-looking statements include, among other things, statements regarding our business plans, regulatory approvals, the closing of the acquisition, product development and product performance and impact. If our underlying assumptions turn out to be incorrect, or if certain risks or uncertainties materialize, actual results could vary materially from the expectations and projections expressed or implied by our forward-looking statements. These factors, in some cases, have affected and in the future (together with other factors) could affect our ability to implement our business strategy and may cause actual results to differ materially from those contemplated by the statements expressed in this press release. As a result, readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on any of our forward-looking statements. Factors that may cause such differences include, among other things: future economic, competitive, reimbursement and regulatory conditions; new product introductions; demographic trends; intellectual property; litigation; financial market conditions; and future business decisions made by us and our competitors. All of these factors are difficult or impossible to predict accurately and many of them are beyond our control. For a further list and description of these and other important risks and uncertainties that may affect our future operations, see Part I, Item 1A Risk Factors in our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, which we may update in Part II, Item 1A Risk Factors in Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q we have filed or will file hereafter. We disclaim any intention or obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements to reflect any change in our expectations or in events, conditions or circumstances on which those expectations may be based, or that may affect the likelihood that actual results will differ from those contained in the forward-looking statements. This cautionary statement is applicable to all forward-looking statements contained in this document. Use of Non-GAAP Financial Measures To supplement our consolidated financial statements presented on a GAAP basis, we disclose certain non-GAAP financial measures, including adjusted net income and adjusted net income (earnings) per share that excludes certain charges and/or credits, such as amortization expense and acquisition-related net charges (credits). These non-GAAP financial measures are not in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States and should not be considered in isolation from or as a replacement for the most directly comparable GAAP financial measures. Further, other companies may calculate these non-GAAP financial measures differently than we do, which may limit the usefulness of those measures for comparative purposes. For further information regarding our non-GAAP measures, see Part II, Item 7 - Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations in our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K, which we may update in Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q we have filed or will file hereafter. CONTACTS: Trish Backes Media Relations Boston Scientific Corporation 651-582-5887 (office) [email protected] Susie Lisa, CFA Investor Relations Boston Scientific Corporation (508) 683-5565 (office) [email protected] 1 Data on File. Boston Scientific. May 2019. 2 Patel, et al. Spine 2015: 40: 275-282. 3 Nunley, et al. Clinical Interventions in Aging. 2017:12 1409 1417. 4 Nunley, et al. Journal of Pain Research. 2018:11 2943 2948. SOURCE Boston Scientific Related Links http://www.bostonscientific.com SAN DIEGO, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Stoel Rives LLP is pleased to announce that Brian Nese is the new office managing partner for the law firm's three California locations. Nese will be responsible for the day-to-day management of the offices and will continue to practice in the firm's Energy Development group. "With Brian as the office managing partner, we know that Stoel Rives' California offices will remain committed to excellence in the legal profession and the growth of business throughout the region," said James E. Torgerson, Stoel Rives' firm managing partner. Nese is the former co-leader of the firm's Energy & Natural Resources Industry Group. His practice focuses on representing renewable energy project developers and owners and operators in connection with project development, mergers and acquisitions, financing, and related due diligence. According to Nese, "Stoel Rives has served California for nearly 20 years. I am committed to our continued focus on enhancing client value through client service, knowledge management, efficiency and a continued commitment to diversity and innovation. I look forward to serving in this new role while continuing to support our clients in the energy industry." Prior to joining Stoel Rives, Nese was an associate at Stroock & Stroock & Lavan LLP, in Los Angeles, where he represented clients in a variety of matters, including dispute resolution, litigation, and regulatory and enforcement proceedings. Active in the community, Nese is a member of the San Diego County Bar Association, CleanTech San Diego, and the San Diego chapter of Women of Renewable Industries and Sustainable Energy (WRISE). Chambers USA and Chambers Global selected Nese as one of "America's Leading Lawyers for Business" in 2017-2018. Nese graduated cum laude with a B.A. from Georgetown University, before earning his law degree from the University of Southern California Law Center. About Stoel Rives LLP: Stoel Rives is a leading U.S. corporate and litigation law firm. One of the largest national firms focused on energy, natural resources, climate change and the environment, Stoel Rives also serves the agribusiness, food and beverage, health care, life sciences, real estate and construction, and technology industries. With more than 350 attorneys operating out of 10 offices in seven states and the District of Columbia, Stoel Rives is a leader in regulatory and compliance matters, and business, labor and employment, land use, and intellectual property law. Contact Stoel Rives LLP: Jasmine Trillos-Decarie, Chief Client Service Officer, 206.386.7637 SOURCE Stoel Rives LLP Related Links https://www.stoel.com SMITHS FALLS, ON, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ - Canopy Growth Corporation ("Canopy Growth" or the "Company") (TSX: WEED) (NYSE: CGC) is pleased to announce today that has signed an offtake agreement with PharmHouse Inc. ("PharmHouse"), a 49 per cent-owned joint venture of Canopy Rivers Inc. (TSXV: RIV) (OTC: CNOPOF). Under the terms of the agreement, PharmHouse has agreed to allocate high quality cannabis flower from an additional 20 per cent of the flowering space available at its Leamington greenhouse facility over the next three years. Boasting 1.3 million square feet of greenhouse grow space, and leveraging the resources of Canopy Growth, Canopy Rivers and its joint venture partner have worked diligently since October 2018 to prepare the facility for licensing. PharmHouse will leverage Canopy Growth's genetics selected and supplied by the Company and flower will be returned to the Company to be sold under Canopy Growth's diverse brands and banners. Under the terms of the new offtake agreement, PharmHouse is committed to producing GMP-certified, high quality cannabis flower within 18 months of its cultivation license and the flower must comply with the Company's high standards for cannabis quality. GMP, or Good Manufacturing Practices, certification is the internationally recognized system to ensure all produced goods meet the highest consumer health and safety standards, allowing the Company to export the flower to its international divisions. Including this new agreement, 30 per cent of PharmHouse's total flowering space has been committed to Canopy Growth. "We have witnessed Canopy Rivers and its joint venture partner pour their hard work into the PharmHouse facility in Leamington and couldn't be more satisfied with how it has turned out," said Bruce Linton, Chairman & Co-CEO of Canopy Growth Corporation and Chairman & CEO of Canopy Rivers. "We expect the same for the flower quality that PharmHouse will be providing to Canopy Growth. This is further evidence that the ecosystem model we had hoped for from Canopy Rivers is demonstrating its value and this new offtake agreement with PharmHouse speaks to how well we are managing our numerous assets." The vertically-integrated ecosystem sought by the Company for Canopy Rivers is its core differentiator. By keeping production within the ecosystem, Canopy Growth is able to leverage the anticipated throughput and low cost of production from the PharmHouse facility and in return receive a significant source of high-quality dried flower. Deliveries to Canopy Growth from PharmHouse are expected to commence late in the second half of this year. Here's to Future Growth. About Canopy Growth Corporation About Canopy Growth Canopy Growth is a world-leading diversified cannabis and hemp company, offering distinct brands and curated cannabis varieties in dried, oil and Softgel capsule forms. Canopy Growth offers medically approved vaporizers through the Company's subsidiary, Storz & Bickel GMbH & Co. KG. From product and process innovation to market execution, Canopy Growth is driven by a passion for leadership and a commitment to building a world-class cannabis company one product, site and country at a time. The Company has operations in over a dozen countries across five continents. The Company is proudly dedicated to educating healthcare practitioners, conducting robust clinical research, and furthering the public's understanding of cannabis, and through its wholly owned subsidiary, Canopy Health Innovations ("Canopy Health"), has devoted millions of dollars toward cutting edge, commercializable research and IP development. Canopy Growth works with the Beckley Foundation and has launched Beckley Canopy Therapeutics to research and develop clinically validated cannabis-based medicines, with a strong focus on intellectual property protection. Canopy Growth acquired assets of leading hemp research company, ebbu, Inc. ("ebbu"). Intellectual Property ("IP") and R&D advancements achieved by ebbu's team apply directly to Canopy Growth's hemp and THC-rich cannabis genetic breeding program and its cannabis-infused beverage capabilities. Through partly owned subsidiary Canopy Rivers Corporation, the Company is providing resources and investment to new market entrants and building a portfolio of stable investments in the sector. From our historic public listing on the Toronto Stock Exchange and New York Stock Exchange to our continued international expansion, pride in advancing shareholder value through leadership is engrained in all we do at Canopy Growth. Canopy Growth has established partnerships with leading sector names including cannabis heavy hitters Houseplant, icon Snoop Dogg, breeding legends DNA Genetics and Green House seeds, Battelle, the world's largest nonprofit research and development organization, and Fortune 500 alcohol leader Constellation Brands, to name but a few. Canopy Growth operates ten licensed cannabis production sites with over 4.3 million square feet of production capacity, including over 500,000 square feet of GMP certified production space. The Company operates Tweed retail stores in Newfoundland and Manitoba and has entered into supply agreements with every Canadian province and territory. For more information visit www.canopygrowth.com Notice Regarding Forward Looking Statements This news release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. Often, but not always, forward-looking statements and information can be identified by the use of words such as "plans", "expects" or "does not expect", "is expected", "estimates", "intends", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", or "believes", or variations of such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved. Forward-looking statements or information involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of Canopy Growth or its subsidiaries to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements or information contained in this news release. Examples of such statements include statements such as "Deliveries to Canopy Growth from PharmHouse are expected to commence in the second half of this year". Risks, uncertainties and other factors involved with forward-looking information could cause actual events, results, performance, prospects and opportunities to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information, including the Company's ability to satisfy provincial sales contracts or provinces purchasing all cannabis allocated to them, and such risks contained in the Company's annual information form dated June 27, 2018 and filed with Canadian securities regulators available on the Company's issuer profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. Although the Company believes that the assumptions and factors used in preparing the forward-looking information or forward-looking statements in this news release are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on such information and no assurance can be given that such events will occur in the disclosed time frames or at all. The forward-looking information and forward-looking statements included in this news release are made as of the date of this news release and the Company does not undertake an obligation to publicly update such forward-looking information or forward-looking information to reflect new information, subsequent events or otherwise unless required by applicable securities laws. SOURCE Canopy Growth Corporation Related Links canopygrowth.com MADISON, N.J., May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Century 21 Real Estate LLC announced today that 20 of its franchisees up for renewal this year signed long-term agreements to remain with the brand. Following the 2018 unveiling of the CENTURY 21 new brand identity and mission, these key renewals signify a continued growth and momentum for the industry-leading brand. These companies are reaffirming a commitment to transform the real estate industry from a series of transactions to extraordinary experiences in key markets across the country. The news of the renewals follows the recent onboarding of 12 new companies into the C21 System, adding 311 new affiliated agents nationwide. "We are thrilled to have these franchisees continue as part of the CENTURY 21 family," said Michael Miedler, president and chief executive officer, Century 21 Real Estate LLC. "Our network of relentless sales professionals works hard every day to create memorable moments for home buyers and sellers along each step of the real estate journey. With their help, we will continue to differentiate ourselves from the competition and be the brand everyone wants to join." The 20 companies that renewed with CENTURY 21 include: CENTURY 21 Action, REALTORS , Minot, ND 21 Action, REALTORS , CENTURY 21 All Professional, Port Saint Lucie, FL 21 All Professional, CENTURY 21 Charlton Realty, Nashville, TN 21 Charlton Realty, CENTURY 21 Dan Cheney & Associates, Inc., Sanger, CA 21 Dan Cheney & Associates, Inc., CENTURY 21 Executive Team, Tampa, FL 21 Executive Team, CENTURY 21 Family Tree, Aurora, MO 21 Family Tree, CENTURY 21 Gold Award Homes, Tomah, WI 21 Gold Award Homes, CENTURY 21 Hometown Brokers, Billings, MT 21 Hometown Brokers, CENTURY 21 Hometown, REALTORS , Seneca, SC 21 Hometown, REALTORS , CENTURY 21 Legacy Realty, Willis Point, TX 21 Legacy Realty, Willis CENTURY 21 Nature Coast, Crystal River, FL 21 Nature Coast, CENTURY 21 North East (formerly North Shore), Peabody, MA 21 North East (formerly North Shore), CENTURY 21 Patty Snell & Associates, Tuscaloosa, AL 21 Patty Snell & Associates, CENTURY 21 Pierce Realty, Mercer, WI 21 Pierce Realty, CENTURY 21 Premier Group, Pittsburg, TX 21 Premier Group, CENTURY 21 Ramos Realty, Bethlehem, PA 21 Ramos Realty, CENTURY 21 Shawmut, Brighton, MA 21 Shawmut, CENTURY 21 Sierra, REALTORS , Mariposa, CA 21 Sierra, REALTORS , CENTURY 21 Topsail Realty, Bristol, RI . Recent companies that joined CENTURY 21 include: CENTURY 21 Access, Columbia, MO CENTURY 21 Coast Properties, Santa Rosa Beach, FL CENTURY 21 Envision, Upper Marlboro, MD CENTURY 21 Gust Realty, Glen Ellyn, IL CENTURY 21 NuVision, Chicago, IL CENTURY 21 Post Realty, Auburn, NY CENTURY 21 ReCom Real Estate, Denver, CO CENTURY 21 Realty Advisors, Austin, TX CENTURY 21 Royal, Scarsdale, NY CENTURY 21 Stein Posner Real Estate, Boca Raton FL CENTURY 21 Total Real Estate Solutions, High Point, NC CENTURY 21 Tropical Breeze Realty, Port Charlotte, FL. About Century 21 Real Estate LLC The approximately 129,000 independent sales professionals in approximately 9,700 offices spanning 82 countries and territories in the CENTURY 21 System live their mission everyday: to defy mediocrity and deliver extraordinary experiences. By consistently chasing excellence, giving 121% and always elevating, the CENTURY 21 brand is helping its affiliated brokers/agents to be the first choice for real estate consumers and industry professionals worldwide. Century 21 Real Estate has numerous websites to help answer specific consumer needs. They are century21.com, century21.com/global, century21.com/commercial, century21.com/finehomes, and century21.com/espanol. Century 21 Real Estate LLC is a subsidiary of Realogy Holdings Corp. (NYSE: RLGY), a global leader in real estate franchising and provider of real estate brokerage, relocation and settlement services. 2019 Century 21 Real Estate LLC. All Rights Reserved. CENTURY 21, C21 and the CENTURY 21 Logo are registered service marks owned by Century 21 Real Estate LLC. Century 21 Real Estate LLC fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Each office is independently owned and operated. Contact: Erin Siegel Century 21 Real Estate LLC Phone: 973.407.2145 Email: [email protected] SOURCE Century 21 Real Estate LLC Related Links http://www.century21.com STILWELL, Kan., May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- By keeping a close watch on America's Maternal Mortality Crisis, Creche Innovations answered the call to this growing problem, by helping thousands of hospitals improve their response and care to Obstetrical Hemorrhage. Over the past year, Creche Innovations has been providing free education programs, and implementing the Rapid Response Unit, commonly referred to as the RRU, a patented all-in-one rapid response medical system. Postpartum Hemorrhage (PPH) remains the most common cause of maternal mortality and morbidity. "Our team was shocked with the alarming number of new mothers that were losing their lives, or left disabled after giving birth," said Scott Norman, CEO of Creche Innovations. Despite the efforts of medical personnel to reduce the incidence of PPH, the United States is the most dangerous place in the developed world to give birth today. The CDC reports "3 in 5 pregnancy-related deaths could be prevented." 54-93% is the range of maternal hemorrhage related deaths that could have been prevented, with improved clinician response. In collaboration with nurses and physicians, Creche Innovations responded to this tragic problem by developing the RRU. This is the third proprietary medical product developed by the team at Creche Innovations, and is being quickly accepted by hospitals, as the new Standard of Care for treating PPH. The first RRU rolled off of the assembly line a year ago, and the system has already proven to help hundreds of hospitals meet the four (4) Key Elements that are required when addressing a PPH emergency: Recognition, Readiness, Response, Reporting, and affording clinicians the opportunity of reaching optimal patient outcomes and saving lives. Recognizing the signs of hemorrhage at the earliest possible moment requires ongoing assessment, and tools to support the medical staff with proper diagnosis and care. Quantitative measurement of blood loss is vital, and assurance of continued assessment in the postpartum period, are essential factors for the best patient outcome. The RRU serves as the only all-in-one PPH treatment system. It's easy to use, streamlines the workflow process, and allows the clinicians to keep all hands-on deck, which is critical when seconds count! Instead of leaving the patients unattended to gather medications and supplies, the RRU stands by at bedside, fully equipped and ready to immediately assist clinicians. The RRU is made in the USA, fully customized for each hospital, and configured to meet their precise needs. The RRU facilitates rapid access to medication, surgical instruments and supplies. All systems come standard with a built-in MicroCool refrigerator. This feature not only ensures immediate access to the needed medications, hospitals now save thousands of dollars by preserving unused Methergine and Hemabate. The built-in QBL-Scale now eliminates the estimation of blood loss by providing a precise and accurate measurement. Hospitals can add additional accessories to complement their exact needs, such as the OR Bright, a built-in LED examination task light, mobile ultrasound, and more. Creche Innovations also provides ongoing hospital support with continuing education classes: "Improving the Quality and Standard of Care when Responding to Postpartum Hemorrhage" and "Eliminating Estimation of Blood Loss in Obstetrical Hemorrhage Patients." These accredited programs are made available to clinicians who qualify. About Creche Innovations A trusted partner to hospitals with over a decade of service, and true medical device innovator, by establishing new and improved standards of care. Creche Innovations continues the quest for absolute best care for patients, and consistently achieves optimal patient outcomes with breakthrough technologies. They also lead the way with unrivaled quality and customer service, assuring clinicians' and patients' peace of mind. SOURCE Creche Innovations Related Links http://www.crecheinnovations.com SANTA ROSA, Calif., May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Charles M. Schulz Sonoma County Airport (STS) is pleased to announce that its terminal facilities now feature Aira Access an innovative free service for blind or low-vision customers. The service, in the form of an app, gives blind and low-vision airport guests and passengers instant access to highly trained professionals who provide visual information for virtually any task including navigating through the airport terminal. How the Aira App Works Charles M. Schulz - Sonoma County Airport Using the free Aira app, passengers connect with an Aira agent who uses the live video stream from their smartphone camera to provide visual information on demand. The app enables blind and low-vision users to independently check flight status, find gates and luggage, use self-service kiosks, navigate through TSA checkpoints and locate the airport restaurants and other services. Aira is a valuable and important innovation, as it augments existing tools and techniques that blind people use to accomplish everyday tasks, such as using white canes, guide dogs, Braille, etc. further enhancing independence for those who are blind or have low vision. More Information About Aira How is it used? Simply download the Aira app for iOS or Android, complete a brief registration and place a call to an agent. The service automatically becomes available when users visit STS, sending the traveler a notification when they enter the airport. Who can use it? Anyone with a smartphone can use Aira while at STS. Aira is a service tailored to people who are blind or have low vision and would benefit from instant access to visual information. Any minutes used while at STS are not deducted from Aira subscribers' monthly plan minutes. Is Aira a subscription service? While Aira is free for anyone to use at the STS Airport, Aira maintains a premium subscription service that enables access to agents from any location, at any time. When taking out an eligible monthly plan, subscribers also unlock the opportunity to purchase Horizon Aira's proprietary smart glasses. To learn more, please visit www.aira.io. Where else is Aira available? Aira Access is available at more than 30 airports nationwide, as well as London Heathrow and New Zealand's Wellington Airport. Aira is also available for free at Walgreens pharmacies, Wegmans Grocery Stores, AT&T retail stores and hundreds of other locations nationwide. A full list of Aira Access Locations can be read from within the Aira smartphone app. About Charles M. Schulz Sonoma County Airport (STS) Located in the heart of Northern California's world-renowned Wine Country, STS is the only airport that offers scheduled air service into the North Bay region. Daily nonstop flights include: Alaska Airlines to Los Angeles, Orange County, San Diego, Portland and Seattle; American Airlines to Dallas (June 2019), Los Angeles (May 2019) and Phoenix Sky Harbor; seasonal flights on Sun Country Airlines to Minnesota and Las Vegas; and United Airlines to Denver and San Francisco. All airlines offer a wide range of connecting flights to destinations in the continental U.S., Mexico and beyond. Offering a hassle-free experience with shorter lines, the Charles M. Schulz Sonoma County Airport also features convenient ground transportation, easy and affordable parking with electric vehicle (EV) charging stations, the Alaska Airlines Wine Flies Free program, the on-site Sky Lounge Steakhouse & Sushi Bar and Costeaux On The Go. For further information, journalists are asked to contact Airport Manager Jon Stout at [email protected] or (707) 565-7243. For additional airport information, follow Charles M. Schulz Sonoma County Airport on Facebook and Twitter. Related Images image1.jpg SOURCE Charles M. Schulz - Sonoma County Airport Related Links https://sonomacountyairport.org BOULDER, CO, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ - Charlotte's Web Holdings, Inc. ("Charlotte's Web" or the "Company") (CSE:CWEB,OTCQX:CWBHF), the market share leader in hemp-derived CBD extract products, today reported certain preliminary financial results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2019. All amounts are expressed in United States dollars. Certain metrics, including those expressed on an adjusted basis, are non-IFRS measures. First Quarter 2019 Preliminary Financial Highlights (Approximate) Organic consolidated revenue of $21M - $22M - 50% from e-commerce sales Gross Margin in a range of 70% to 75% Adjusted EBITDA 1 between $4.0M to $4.5M , or approximately 20% between to , or approximately 20% Net Income between $2.0 - $2 .5M - .5M Retail doors have surpassed 6,000 at May 8, 2019 Doubling hemp acreage planting for 2019 U.S. $ millions Q1 2019 Q4 2018 Q3 2018 Q2 2018 Q1 2018 Q4 2017 Q3 2017 Q2 2017 Q1 2017 Total revenue 21-22 (Est.) $ 21.5 $ 17.7 $ 17.2 $ 13.1 $ 12.5 $ 11.3 $ 9.1 $ 7.1 "There is a lot of excitement surrounding the CBD wellness space today and we are issuing our preliminary first quarter results in the interest of transparency and to ensure alignment of shareholder expectations in terms of growth rates," said Hess Moallem, President and CEO of Charlotte's Web Holdings Inc. "First quarter sales increased approximately 70% year-over-year within the range of our expectations. Our sales volumes increase monthly and March closed with record sales of approximately $8 million for the month. Our revenue guidance for 2019 remains at between $120 million and $170 million for 2019. Where our final 2019 annual sales figure lands in this range will be determined primarily by the roll-out pace with national retailers, their associated SKU uptake, and associated in-store sales velocities. E-Commerce sales rates through both our online store and third-party e-commerce platforms will be the other primary factor along with the success and traction of new products and categories we will be introducing this year." While quarterly results vary, on an annualized basis management anticipates gross margins and adjusted EBITDA to generally be within the ranges of 70% to 75% and 30% to 35% of revenue respectively for 2019, in line with its historical norms. The low or high end of gross margin ranges is primarily determined by the relative sales channel revenue mix for the period between e-commerce sales versus traditional bricks & mortar retail doors. Approximately 50% of Q1-2019 revenue was from e-commerce. The first quarter of 2019 commenced shortly after the successful passing of the 2018 Farm Bill by U.S. Congress on December 22, 2018. The Farm Bill provided clarity for the hemp industry and was an important milestone to increasing buy-in from national brand retailers and consumers in general. Charlotte's Web is now shipping to four national brand grocery and drugstore retailers, initially taking select products to select stores in specific states. The Company expects additional stores and states to be added throughout 2019 and 2020 but has not yet been given specific timing or volumes from all its retail partners. Currently three of the four national accounts are exclusively carrying topical products. "We view these national accounts as big wins for Charlotte's Web," said Mr. Moallem. "Though they are entering the category slowly, these accounts are expected to transition from pilot sites to broader rollouts with expanded offerings in the future, and we have prepared ourselves in order to support these valued partners, including the introduction of new products across the consumable, topical and pet categories. This is very encouraging for our long-term outlook." As of May 8, 2019, Charlotte's Web has surpassed 6,000 retail locations across the United States as consumer awareness and retailer interest surrounding hemp and CBD has reached all-time highs. More than 2,300 new retail doors were added since the start of the year - more than in all of 2018 - significantly expanding the Company's physical brick and mortar retail reach. To support this growing consumer and retailer demand, the Company is doubling the number of acres planted for 2019. "We planted 300 acres of hemp in 2018 and harvested 675,000 pounds of raw hemp compared to 63,000 pounds in 2017. For the 2019 season we are doubling the acres planted to ensure we will have the volumes required to meet anticipated demand through 2020 and into 2021. We share in the market's enthusiasm and are confident in our long-term opportunity to increase our brand and market leadership position," added Mr. Moallem. Note to Reader These preliminary, unaudited financial estimates contained in this press release are based on information available to management as of the date of this press release, remain subject to the completion of normal quarter-end accounting procedures and adjustments, and are subject to change. Charlotte's Web's independent registered public accounting firm has not completed its review of the results for the quarter ended March 31, 2019. Charlotte's Web undertakes no obligation to update the information in this press release in the event facts or circumstances change after the date of this press release. Charlotte's Web plans to release its financial results for the first quarter in late May 2019. An earnings date and conference call notice will be announced in May when the Q1 reporting date is finalized. About Charlotte's Web Holdings, Inc. Charlotte's Web Holdings, Inc. is the market leader in the production and distribution of innovative hemp-derived cannabidiol ("CBD") wellness products. Founded by the Stanley Brothers, the Company's premium quality products start with proprietary hemp genetics that are responsibly manufactured into hemp-derived CBD extracts naturally containing a full spectrum of phytocannabinoids, including CBD, terpenes, flavonoids and other beneficial hemp compounds. Industrial hemp products are non-intoxicating. Charlotte's Web product categories include CBD Oil tinctures (liquid products), CBD capsules, CBD topicals, as well as CBD pet products. Charlotte's Web hemp-derived CBD extracts are sold through select distributors, brick and mortar retailers, and online through the Company's website at www.CharlottesWeb.com. The rate the Company pays for agricultural products reflects a fair and sustainable rate driving higher quality yield, encouraging good farming practices, and supporting U.S. farming communities. Charlotte's Web is a socially conscious company and is committed to using business as a force for good and a catalyst for innovation. The Company weighs sound business decisions with consideration for how its efforts affect its employees, customers, the environment, and the communities where its employees live and where it does business, while maximizing profits and strengthening its brands. The Company's management believes that socially oriented actions have a positive impact on the Company, its employees and its shareholders. Charlotte's Web donates a portion of its pre-tax earnings to charitable organizations. Shares of Charlotte's Web trade on the Canadian Securities Exchange under the symbol "CWEB" and in the United States on the OTCQX under the symbol "CWBHF". As at March 31, 2019 Charlotte's Web has 25,375,294 Common Shares outstanding and 169,696.18 Proportionate Voting Shares convertible at 400:1, for an effective equivalent of 93,253,766 Common Shares outstanding. 1. Adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (Adjusted EBITDA) is not a recognized performance measure under IFRS. The term EBITDA consists of net income (loss) and excludes interest (financing costs), taxes and depreciation. Adjusted EBITDA also excludes share-based compensation, IPO related costs, impairment of assets and adjustments for fair valuing of biological assets. Adjusted EBITDA is included as a supplemental disclosure because Management believes that such measurement provides a better assessment of the Company's operations on a continuing basis by eliminating certain non-cash charges and charges or gains that are nonrecurring. The most directly comparable measure to adjusted EBITDA calculated in accordance with IFRS is net income (loss). The following is a reconciliation of the Company's net income (loss) to Adjusted EBITDA. Forward-Looking Information This press release may contain forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. In the interest of providing the shareholders and potential investors of Charlotte's Web Holdings, Inc. with information about the Company and its subsidiaries, including management's assessment of the Company and its subsidiaries' future plans and operations, certain information provided in this press release constitutes forward-looking statements or information (collectively, "forward-looking statements"). Forward-looking statements are typically identified by words such as "may", "will", "should", "could", "anticipate", "expect", "project", "estimate", "forecast", "plan", "intend", "target", "believe" and similar words suggesting future outcomes or statements regarding an outlook. Although these forward-looking statements are based on assumptions the Company considers to be reasonable based on the information available on the date such statements are made, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and readers are cautioned against placing undue reliance on forward-looking statements. By their nature, these statements involve a variety of assumptions, known and unknown risks and uncertainties, and other factors which may cause actual results, levels of activity, and achievements to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such statements. The forward-looking information contained in this press release is based on certain assumptions and analysis by management of the Company in light of its experience and perception of historical trends, current conditions and expected future development and other factors that it believes are appropriate. The Company's forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties pertaining to, among other things, revenue fluctuations, nature of government regulations, economic conditions, loss of key customers, retention and availability of executive talent, competing products, common share price volatility, loss of proprietary information, product acceptance, internet and system infrastructure functionality, information technology security, cash available to fund operations, availability of capital and, international and political considerations, including but not limited to those risks and uncertainties discussed under the heading "Risk Factors" in the MD&A and the Company's other filings with securities regulators. The impact of any one risk, uncertainty, or factor on a particular forward-looking statement is not determinable with certainty as these are interdependent, and the Company's future course of action depends on Management's assessment of all information available at the relevant time. Except to the extent required by law, the Company assumes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements made in this press release, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise. All subsequent forward-looking statements, whether written or oral, attributable to the Company or persons acting on the Company's behalf, are expressly qualified in their entirety by these cautionary statements. SOURCE Charlotte's Web Holdings, Inc. HUAI'AN, China, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- The China (Huai'an) International Food Expo (Food Expo) kicked off on Thursday in Huai'an, Jiangsu in eastern China with featured activities such as high-end summit, production-sales matching activities, brand promotions and food tasting events. The expo will be held four days in the "Canal City". Also known as the "Gourmet City", Huai'an invited 456 domestic and foreign companies to the expo to exhibit tens of thousands of varieties of food, sourced globally, treating participants to a feast with "Jiangsu Taste", "Chinese Characteristics" and "International Style". Theme on "Live a Fashionable Life With High Quality Food", the expo also attracts nearly 10,000 buyers from home and abroad to come for a deal. The Huai'an expo already facilitated 32 intents of cooperation even before its opening ceremony with a total investment of 15.634 billion yuan. During the expo's opening ceremony, Huai'an municipal party committee secretary Yao Xiaodong mentioned that Huai'an has always been cultivating the food sector into one of its advantages, making quality products such as Xuyi lobster, Hongze lake crab and Huai'an rice world-famous to build "A Bite" and "Huai Taste" as an influential brand. Huai'an, a major food city whose food industry output value exceeds 100 billion yuan, has been continuously breeding the "Canal Culture" and the "Huaiyang Cuisine" (one of the four classic Chinese cuisines) due to its canal, rivers and lake resources. It is noted that Huai'an is now applying to UNESCO Creative Cities Network as a "Gourmet City" to better contribute to the high-quality and sustainable development of global food industry. SOURCE China (Huai'an) International Food Expo WACO, Texas, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Church's Chicken is celebrating the grand reopening of its Waco, TX location. The global quick-service restaurant chain will be satisfying the area's chicken enthusiasts under long-time franchisee Mike Collins, who owns dozens of Church's Chicken franchises across Texas and New Mexico. The official grand reopening is set to take place on May 9th from 4 p.m. -6 p.m. at 1710 S. 31st Street, Temple, TX 76501. Mike Collins, the President of Ampler Chicken, LLC, has years of hands-on experience in the quick-service industry and has overseen restaurants across Texas and New Mexico. "It's great being a part of such a storied brand. To many, Church's is simply a restaurant, but to others, we're a member of the community whose weekly visits are enjoyed by the whole family," said Collins. Guests will find that the restaurant bears attractive new STAR Image design and decor elements, which include Church's latest interior seating options, new exterior design and color palettes, and contemporary lighting inside and out. The grand reopening will include food, giveaways, live music, a speaker, and mascots fun for the whole family. Church's is world-renowned for their freshly-prepared original and spicy chicken and fresh-baked Honey-Butter Biscuits made from scratch daily. "We're excited to see another restaurant reopened with both a new loom and revitalized energy," said Peter Servold, Executive Vice President of US Operations at Church's Chicken. "At Church's, we believe it's our franchisees who make our restaurants the kind of place that keeps people coming back." About Church's Chicken Founded in San Antonio, TX in 1952 by George W. Church, Church's Chicken is one of the largest quick service restaurant chicken chains in the world. Church's specializes in Original and Spicy Chicken freshly prepared throughout the day in small batches that are hand-battered and double-breaded, Tender Strips, Honey-Butter Biscuits made from scratch and freshly baked, and classic, home-style sides all for a great value. Church's (along with its sister brand Texas Chicken outside the Americas) has more than 1,500 locations in 23 countries and international territories and system-wide sales of more than $1 billion. For more information, visit www.churchs.com. Follow Church's on Facebook at www.facebook.com/churchschicken and Twitter at www.twitter.com/churchschicken. Contact: Peyton Sadler 866.571.3449 [email protected] SOURCE Church's Chicken Related Links http://www.churchs.com MILFORD, N.H., May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Cirtronics, an experienced medical device contract manufacturer located in Southern New Hampshire, will host a panel at the upcoming BIOMEDevice Conference in Boston next week. The panel, Case Studies in Transition to Manufacturing will provide useful insights and examples for product design engineers, manufacturing engineers and engineering team leaders. The session is on Thursday, May 16, 3:00-4:00pm and features MedTech experts candidly sharing their perspectives taking medical device designs to full-scale production. Andy McMillan, Chair of Cirtronics' Board of Advisors and Panel Moderator explains, "the group of experts will share their experiences of transitioning their medical devices from design to manufacturing. Panel members will focus on optimizing cost and quality in ways that align with the unique needs of each product." After the initial panel discussion, each of the panelists, Doug Vincent, President & CEO, VentriFlo and Daemeon Pratt, NPI Engineering Manager, Nordson Medical, will participate in a Q&A conversation with the audience. Cirtronics' Transition to Manufacturing (T2M) services include optimizing part sourcing, traceability, test development and verification, pilot production and manufacturing readiness strategy. These services are tailored to each of Cirtronics' customer's needs as they transition their product from design to manufacturing. Come talk with Cirtronics' T2M experts at BIOMEDevice: Visit Cirtronics at booth #749 or sign up for the conference and attend the panel discussion. About Cirtronics Cirtronics, located in Southern New Hampshire, offers expertise and experience manufacturing complex and quality-sensitive products for markets such as robotics, medical technology, security, defense, and other industrial applications. Cirtronics' fully integrated and responsive manufacturing and logistics services are tailored to the needs of each customer. This is Precision Engagement. For more information visit www.cirtronics.com. Cirtronics is ISO 13485 certified, FDA and ITAR registered, and a Woman-Owned Small Business. Contact: Stephanie Gronvall, (202) 725-6480, [email protected] SOURCE Cirtronics Related Links http://www.cirtronics.com WESTMINSTER, Colo., May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Coalfire, a trusted provider of cybersecurity advisory and assessment services, today announced its Secure Cloud Automation Services (SCAS) won a bronze award in the Innovation in Compliance category from the 2019 Info Security Products Guide Awards. The company also won a gold award for Public Relations Achievement of the Year for outstanding public relations results. "We are honored to receive two awards from Info Security Products Guide," said Tom McAndrew, CEO of Coalfire. "As industries grapple with more stringent regulations and compliance requirements, we are dedicated to providing customers with innovative solutions to increase efficiency and reduce the time and cost to compliance. The SCAS award showcases the headway we are making in automated compliance solutions." Coalfire's SCAS leverages the company's expansive security, compliance, and engineering experience, in addition to its relationships with leading cloud service providers, to quickly deploy preconfigured cloud infrastructure that meets industry security and compliance requirements. Coalfire successfully helped Innovest accelerate its FedRAMP process through SCAS. Historically, organizations spend over a year to achieve FedRAMP authorization. Coalfire's use of Amazon Web Services' (AWS) security, automation and orchestration (SAO) techniques in FedRAMP dramatically reduces the time to ATO by up to 50%. SCAS is also enabling faster times to compliance for a range of additional compliance frameworks. The company also won gold in the Public Relations Achievement of the Year category for doubling its public relations results from 2017 to 2018, despite competing with brand-name heavyweights in the cybersecurity advisory space. The award recognized team leader and Coalfire Senior Director of Public Relations Lindsay Smith, agencies Lumina Communications (US) and Citypress (UK), and UK Managing Director Andy Barratt for PR strategy and results, leveraging the thought leadership of Coalfire's many experts. About Coalfire Coalfire is the trusted cybersecurity advisor that helps private and public-sector organizations avert threats, close gaps and effectively manage risk. By providing independent and tailored advice, assessments, technical testing and cyber engineering services, we help clients develop scalable programs that improve their security posture, achieve their business objectives and fuel their continued success. Coalfire has been a cybersecurity thought leader for nearly 20 years and has offices throughout the United States and Europe. For more information, visit Coalfire.com. Press Contact: Mike Gallo For Coalfire 212-239-8594 [email protected] SOURCE Coalfire Related Links http://Coalfire.com COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo., May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Colorado active duty and retired military service members with Tricare insurance can now receive fertility care from a Reproductive Endocrinologist and Infertility Specialist (RE&I) in Colorado. Typically, these soldiers would only have access to an OB/GYN for infertility challenges. "I am thrilled to give American heroes the specialized care they need to grow their families," said Dr. Paul Magarelli, reproductive endocrinologist and founder of Magarelli Fertility. The center has cared for military families since 1998 and provides a range of free services to military personnel, including sperm freezing. Magarelli explained that few private centers worldwide can provide RE&I care to military families through the Tricare program. Tricare covers a range of fertility services to treat infertility challenges resulting from illness or injury occurring during military service, including: Sperm retrieval Egg retrieval In vitro fertilization (IVF) Artificial insemination Blastocyst implantation Cryopreservation and embryo storage "My father was a POW during WWII, so I've always felt loyalty and gratitude for our military," Magarelli said. "I'm always looking for ways to give soldiers and retired soldiers the care they need. There are so many technological solutions to effectively treat infertility these days, these heroes should be first in line." Magarelli co-founded US Military Family Fertility Services, a 501(c)3 nonprofit supporting grants and education for active duty military families seeking fertility help. Active and retired military seeking the care of a specialist can contact him and discuss fertility options at 877.475.BABY. About Magarelli Fertility At Magarelli Fertility, our goal is "One Healthy Baby". We understand that everyone is unique and requires a treatment plan just as unique to reach their goal. Whether your obstacle is infertility, recurrent pregnancy loss, or your interest is in exploring other family building options such as donor egg, donor sperm, or gestational carrier/surrogacy, Magarelli Fertility will customize your treatment utilizing our partner and the latest advances and techniques in reproductive care. We work with couples of all sexual orientations, as well as single individuals looking to start their own families. We partner with you through every step of the process to ensure an understanding of all procedures and the chances for a successful outcome. For more information visit magarellifertility.com or call 877.475.BABY. Contact: Erich Kirshner Evolution Communications 303.921.6733 [email protected] SOURCE Magarelli Fertility Related Links https://www.magarellifertility.com WOONSOCKET, R.I., May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- CVS Pharmacy, the retail division of CVS Health (NYSE: CVS), announced today that it has completed the rollout of time delay safes in all of its 140 CVS Pharmacy locations in Minnesota, including in Target stores. The safes are anticipated to help prevent pharmacy robberies and the diversion of controlled substance narcotic medications by keeping them out of the hands of unauthorized individuals. In addition, the safes are anticipated to help CVS Pharmacy ensure the safety and well-being of its customers and employees. CVS Pharmacy anticipates these time delay safes helping to deter pharmacy robberies including those involving opioid medications such as oxycodone and hydrocodone by electronically delaying the time it takes for pharmacy employees to be able to open the safe. CVS Pharmacy first implemented time delay safes in Indianapolis, a city experiencing a high volume of pharmacy robberies, in 2015. The company saw a 70 percent decline in pharmacy robberies among the Indianapolis stores where the time delay safes had been installed. "Pharmacy robberies are a challenging issue for every pharmacy and we are committed to doing all we can to reduce the number of incidents in our Minnesota stores," said Ashlee Slocum, District Leader, CVS Pharmacy during an event today with a delegation of Minnesota officials at a CVS Pharmacy in St. Paul. "We have seen that time delay safes, combined with other security policies and procedures in place at our stores, can greatly reduce these incidents and are pleased to roll out this enhanced security measure. These safes will help ensure that our pharmacies remain a safe environment for our patients and colleagues." The time delay function cannot be overridden and is designed to serve as a deterrent to would-be pharmacy robbers whose goal is to enter and exit their robbery targets as quickly as possible. All CVS Pharmacy locations with time delay safes display visible signage warning that time delay safes are in use to prevent on-demand access to controlled substance narcotics. "Abuse of prescription painkillers and other medication is a significant crime factor in Ramsey County. From time to time, pharmacies are targeted," said Ramsey County Attorney John Choi. "The use of smart technology, like that being displayed today, to help prevent thefts, burglaries and robberies enhances the safety of us all." The implementation of time delay safes across all CVS Pharmacy locations in Minnesota is among numerous measures that the company has put in place to help combat the misuse of prescription drugs in the state. CVS Pharmacy's commitment extends to community education, efforts to encourage safe disposal of unused medication and increasing access to the opioid overdose-reversal drug naloxone. The company's Pharmacists Teach program brings CVS pharmacists to schools across the country to talk to students and parents about the dangers of misusing prescription drugs, using a curriculum developed with the Partnership for Drug-Free Kids. More than 490,000 students and parents across the country, including 1,200 in Minnesota, have participated in the program. CVS Pharmacy has also completed installation of six safe medication disposal units in CVS Pharmacy stores in Minnesota. These units are in addition to the 15 units the company has donated to Minnesota law enforcement agencies. Nationwide, 1,029 safe medication disposal units have been installed in CVS Pharmacy locations, adding to the 950 units the company has donated to law enforcement agencies. Through this effort, the company has collected more than 791,000 pounds, or 359 metric tons of unwanted medication, including more than 11,000 pounds, or more than 5 metric tons in Minnesota alone. Increasing community access to safe medication disposal helps rid homes of unused medications that might otherwise have been diverted, misused or ended up in our water supply. Additionally, CVS Pharmacy has worked with 48 states including Minnesota and Washington, DC to increase access to the opioid overdose-reversal drug naloxone, also known as Narcan. Today, all CVS Pharmacy locations have in-store signage to inform patients about the availability and accessibility of the potentially life-saving drug. About CVS Pharmacy CVS Pharmacy, the retail division of CVS Health (NYSE: CVS), is America's leading retail pharmacy with over 9,800 locations. It is the first national pharmacy to end the sale of tobacco and the first pharmacy in the nation to receive the Community Pharmacy accreditation from URAC, the leading health care accreditation organization that establishes quality standards for the health care industry. CVS Pharmacy is reinventing pharmacy to help people on their path to better health by providing the most accessible and personalized expertise, both in its stores and online at CVS.com. General information about CVS Pharmacy is available at http://www.cvshealth.com. SOURCE CVS Pharmacy Related Links http://www.cvshealth.com SEOUL, South Korea, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- At the Jamsil Art & Communications Gallery on April 1, 2019, the Daily Associated News selected Richard Jones Lee (Korean name Lee Han-su) as the 2019 Global Leader who was recognized for his contributions to the foreign business, social contribution, culture, education and beauty academy. At the same time, he was appointed Secretary-General of the National Society for Social Welfare Foundation (NFSWA Foundation), which is based in New York City, USA. Korea is rapidly growing with various changes in arts, culture, fashion and education following the Fourth Industrial Revolution. In this atmosphere, the need for a global leader with an international sense is continuously being demanded by the expert group. Daily Associated News is an international media association engaged in various activities like seminars, forum, awards ceremony, talent development, cultural exchanges and information communication through overseas network. In keeping with this, Daily Associated News is selecting a 2019 global leader with international capabilities. The motivation for appointing Secretary General Lee Han-su as the 2019 Global Business Leader is that he is fluent in various foreign languages such as English, Thai, Japanese, and Korean, and his contribution to cultural exchange and economic growth has been acknowledged through various contacts in each country. Here is the interview with Richard Jones Lee: Q: Congratulations on your appointment as Global Leader and Secretary General of the National Social Welfare Association. How do you feel about this and please briefly explain to us what NFSWA is. A: Thank you for giving me the grand prize '2019 Global Leader'. The NFSWA Foundation is a non-profit organization established in New York, USA in 2015, and aims to contribute to social welfare through international cultural and social exchanges. Q: Please introduce yourself a little bit more? A: Yes, I am the Vice president of the SNS Press Association of the Society, which is a member of the Global Social Network: a media, broadcasting and media creator association. I'm also the chairman of KCBA Korean Culture and Beauty Association, Vice Chairman of the Korea Free Trade FTA Private Sector Committee. Besides, I have many activities in various fields like as culture, arts, education, and international exchanges and I have been in charge of permanent advisor to the Korean Federation of Civilizations, a vice chairman of the Association of Fashion Enterprise Export Support, a professor emeritus at Hebei Art University and a vice president of IMM International Model Association. Q: If you have thought about the future activities of the NFSWA Foundation as Secretary General, please share with us. A: As you know, the NFSWA Foundation is a non-profit organization that carries out social welfare projects through international cultural exchanges. As part of that, we have organized community gatherings of business people and scholars from the United States, Korea, Mainland China, Taiwan, and Japan. Our business areas are focused on four areas: welfare, education, certification business, and volunteerism. NFSWA's distinctive education system consists of three PBS (branding), CSS (dialogue skills), and CPS (Creative Approach), and so on. In addition to that, we plan to nurture the next generation of experts in the field of welfare and cultural exchanges by establishing the Study of International Society Welfare and Culture Exchange and the Institute of Professional Education under the NFSWA Foundation. Currently, we are jointly conducting the private tutoring service for elderly welfare centers located in Weihai, Shandong province, China. Also, we are the Korean agent of the 12th Shandong Province Biomedical Engineering Science Conference (11th-13th, July) held by Shandong Province Medical Science Society in China. Q: You are planning a variety of activities. Finally, do you have additional messages you want to give? A: Yes, I really want to give thank again for choosing me as a 2019 global leader. I will always try to live a passionate life with my motto "Prove myself" and faithfully fulfill the role of the Secretary-General and my duties for the national development and international economic growth by cultivating new talents in art, education, cultural exchanges and international exchanges in Asia. SOURCE Daily Associated News DALLAS, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Dynata, a global leader in first-party data and data services, is excited to announce its strategic partnership with Eyeota to offer global B2B and consumer audiences at scale. The expanded access to global audience segment creation allows marketers to leverage Dynata's reliable first-party data for coordinated global marketing campaigns, using seed and look-alike modeling to reach consumers and business professionals with greater accuracy and specificity. The Dynata audiences can be accessed through the Eyeota Audience Marketplace, and are initially available throughout the United States, United Kingdom, and Australia. The datasets include hard to reach B2B decision makers and a variety of consumer demographics. Self-declared automotive data will be made available in the Eyeota Audience Marketplace by June 2019. Dynata's first-party datasets are distinguished by their accuracy and depth. The profile data comprises 2,700 attributes derived from ongoing research relationships with more than 60 million opted-in consumers around the world. It is deterministic, declared data, provided by consumers, rather than observed data a crucial distinction for marketers interested in knowing their target audiences. Eyeota's proprietary data onboarding methodology takes Dynata's survey response data and creates statistical models that enable this small, but incredibly rich data set to be scaled into targetable audience segments representative of the respective market populations. The resulting audiences will be available globally via major Demand Side Platforms (DSPs) for all activation channels including email, display, video, mobile, and addressable television. The offering will continually expand to include additional datasets and countries. This partnership also enables brands to extend their first-party research data into global, targetable custom audiences to drive precisely targeted and results-driven marketing campaigns. "Brands worldwide can now create and activate precisely targeted marketing audiences using the known data points of our first-party deterministic data," says Laura Lewellyn, VP Data Strategy and Partnerships at Dynata. "Eyeota has a strong reputation for data quality and consultative expertise, and we're delighted to offer our data on their respected global marketplace through this partnership." "Eyeota's proprietary onboarding methodology provides a privacy-compliant, scalable solution for businesses looking to maximize the value of their data," says Howard Luks, SVP, Data Products and Partnerships at Eyeota. "We're excited to help a leading research company, such as Dynata, digitize their powerful insights into actionable audiences." About Dynata Dynata is one of the world's leading providers of first-party data contributed by consumers and business professionals. With a reach that encompasses 60+ million people globally and an extensive library of individual profile attributes collected through surveys, Dynata is the cornerstone for precise, trustworthy quality data. The company has built innovative data services and solutions around its core first-party data offering to bring the voice of the customer to the entire marketing spectrum, from market research to marketing and advertising. Dynata serves nearly 6,000 market research agencies, media and advertising agencies, consulting and investment firms, and healthcare and corporate customers in North America, South America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific. For more information, go to www.dynata.com. About Eyeota Eyeota is an audience technology platform that enables the intelligent use of data. We work with marketers, data owners and research companies to provide distinct, comprehensive and qualified audience data. Our technology platform transforms audience data so that organizations can make smarter business decisions, understand customers and enrich marketing strategies. Eyeota was founded in 2010 and operates in Europe, Asia, Australia and the Americas. For more information, please visit www.eyeota.com. SOURCE Dynata Related Links http://www.dynata.com AKRON, Ohio, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- ECG, a leader of Predictive Analytics software for use in monitoring real time equipment and process health, today announced that Luminant has selected the Predict-It Anomaly Detection Solution for remote monitoring of 32,000 megawatts of its generation fleet. Luminant operates its Texas-based Power Optimization Center (POC) to remotely monitor its diverse fleet of assets for early signs of equipment and process abnormalities, and to take proactive, planned steps to mitigate identified risks. Luminant recently presented at the OSIsoft 2019 PI World Conference in San Francisco about its implementation of the Predict-It solution. The presentation can be viewed HERE. The Luminant team highlights its journey rolling out OSIsoft's PI System with contextualized data in Asset Framework in a cloud environment, and implementation of Predict-It in five weeks across 72 generating units. "Luminant has done a tremendous job in leveraging the PI System to create a competitive advantage over their peers through implementation of advanced business use cases," said David Thomason, Industry Principal at OSIsoft. ECG's president Mike Santucci stated "We are very pleased that Luminant has selected our Predict-It solution as their predictive analytics software of choice." ECG's solution utilizes existing process data and turns it into meaningful, actionable information for more informed decision-making. Users can also take advantage of Predict-It's embedded Diagnostic Reasoner to probabilistically assess current machine faults for apparent cause diagnosis. About OSIsoft OSIsoft, a global leader in operational intelligence and maker of the PI System, empowers companies across a range of industries in activities to leverage streaming data for optimization and enrichment of their businesses. Founded in 1980, OSIsoft is a privately-held company, headquartered in San Leandro, California, U.S.A, with offices around the world. To learn more, please visit www.osisoft.com . About ECG ECG is a leading software technology company headquartered in Akron Ohio. ECG has a proven track record of assisting companies to transform their operations through better use of their operating data. ECG is proud to be a contributing member of the OSIsoft PartnerEcosphere for over 20 years. To learn more, please visit www.ecg-inc.com . Contact Information: Engineering Consultants Group, Inc. 3394 W. Market Street, Akron, OH 44333 Website: [email protected] Phone: 330-869-9949 Email: [email protected] SOURCE ECG, Inc. Related Links http://www.ecg-inc.com BEIJING, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- eCloudvalley China obtained the status as an AWS Premier Consulting Partner for China in the Amazon Web Services (AWS) Partner Network (APN) on May 8, 2019, making the company the world's only premier consulting partner for both AWS Global and AWS China. Currently, AWS has 94 premier consulting partners from Africa, China, Europe, Japan, Latin America, the Middle East and North America, only four of whom are from China. The earning of the status as the AWS premier consulting partner is a high recognition of eCloudvalley's outstanding AWS technologies and services. The status not only represents the company's role as a world-leading APN consulting partner but also demonstrates its extensive experience and the strength of its certified team of highly skilled consulting professionals. Since its founding in 2014, eCloudvalley has been dedicated to providing AWS professional consulting services and technical support, including cloud migration, the Internet of Things (IoT) platform, DevOps, big data, serverless and container services, Next-gen MSP as well as cloud training. The company has established service centers in a number of major Chinese cities, including Beijing, Nanjing, Shanghai, Shenzhen and Wuhan, serving customers with businesses covering gaming, media, manufacturing and finance, among other sectors. With an ongoing commitment to AWS technologies and services, eCloudvalley has built an outstanding team of highly skilled professionals and gained extensive experience in providing customers with quality services. In addition, the numerous AWS certifications that eCloudvalley has received are a testament to the success of the firm's growth path. Looking forward, the company plans to continue its focus on providing AWS technologies and services in a move to help more Chinese firms with their digital transformation by adopting its best practices. About eCloudvalley Founded in 2014, eCloudvalley has since been committed to helping customers with their digital transformation on the cloud by providing them with the most sophisticated cloud technologies and trusted cloud managed services. With more than four years of experience under its belt, the company now has over 200 employees with business spanning APAC, including Hong Kong, Mainland China, the Philippines and Taiwan as well as the US. Based on its focus on cloud technologies, eCloudvalley has been named one of the leading managed services providers across APAC by international research and consulting firm Gartner. The company's professional team has received over 300 certifications from AWS and helped nearly a thousand firms complete the digitalization of their environments. Its key competitive offerings include cloud migration, DevOps, serverless and container services, data solutions and SAP solution as well as cloud training. eCloudvalley www.ecloudvalley.com [email protected] SOURCE eCloudvalley Related Links http://www.ecloudvalley.com SHELTON, Conn. and NEW YORK, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Edgewell Personal Care Company (NYSE: EPC) and Harry's, Inc. today announced that they have entered into a definitive agreement under which Edgewell will combine with Harry's in a cash and stock transaction that values Harry's at $1.37 billion. The combination of Edgewell and Harry's brings together complementary capabilities to create a next-generation consumer products platform with an expansive runway for accelerated topline growth and enhanced value creation. Together, Edgewell and Harry's will create a platform that enables building and scaling the next generation of impactful consumer brands. Harry's has been a disruptive force across the men's and women's shaving market and adjacent grooming and personal care categories. Its demonstrated expertise in brand building and direct-to-consumer marketing are a complementary fit with Edgewell's strong intellectual property, best-in-class product technology, global scale and stable of strong consumer brands. The combined company will have a leading portfolio of global brands in men's and women's shaving, personal and sun and skin care. Andy Katz-Mayfield and Jeff Raider, Harry's Co-Founders and Co-CEOs, have agreed to join the Executive Team of Edgewell at closing, to serve as Co-Presidents of U.S. operations. "The combination of Edgewell and Harry's is a pivotal step forward in further transforming our organization and strengthening our competitive position and ability to drive sustained growth and value creation," said Rod Little, Edgewell's President and Chief Executive Officer. "Building on Edgewell's and Harry's complementary strengths, our combined company will have leading brands and omni-channel capabilities that are essential to meet the needs of the modern consumer and win in today's market environment. We welcome Harry's entrepreneurial employees and look forward to working closely with Andy and Jeff, whose ingenuity and demonstrated success will enable us to take our U.S. business to the next level. We are excited about our future and the opportunities we have to deliver superior long-term shareholder returns as a next-generation CPG platform." Andy Katz-Mayfield and Jeff Raider, Co-Founders and Co-CEOs of Harry's, said "When we launched Harry's six years ago our vision was to create a grooming brand that better met our needs as consumers, and over time, a CPG platform that creates brands people love across more categories. Together with Edgewell, we see a significant opportunity to continue delivering on that vision, leveraging Edgewell's advanced technology and global footprint alongside our customer-first approach, brand building expertise and omni-channel capabilities. We're incredibly proud of the brands we've created and the team we've built, and have tremendous respect for Edgewell and its established brand portfolio. We look forward to what we can accomplish together." Benefits of the Next-Generation Consumer Products Platform Strengthening the Portfolio . The combined company will access Edgewell's exceptional product technology to continue building on Harry's shave and personal care products. In addition, with Edgewell's global scale and infrastructure, the combined company will introduce Harry's proven brands into new markets. Edgewell plans to capitalize on Harry's strength in brand positioning and design to enhance its North American Wet Shave offering to appeal to a broader and more diverse set of consumers. Edgewell will also leverage Harry's direct-to-consumer capabilities to drive online growth. Internationally, the combined company will be well-positioned to accelerate growth in attractive categories. . The combined company will access Edgewell's exceptional product technology to continue building on Harry's shave and personal care products. In addition, with Edgewell's global scale and infrastructure, the combined company will introduce Harry's proven brands into new markets. Edgewell plans to capitalize on Harry's strength in brand positioning and design to enhance its North American Wet Shave offering to appeal to a broader and more diverse set of consumers. Edgewell will also leverage Harry's direct-to-consumer capabilities to drive online growth. Internationally, the combined company will be well-positioned to accelerate growth in attractive categories. Establishing a Strong Platform for Innovation and Scale . The companies intend to combine their best-in-class capabilities in brand building, product technology and direct-to-consumer experiences to build next generation brands. This approach includes offering differentiated products driven by real consumer pain points, building modern and relatable brands and establishing deep consumer connections through fully integrated omni-channel experiences. The platform will benefit from Edgewell's retailer relationships, R&D, supply chain, manufacturing presence, global scale and distribution capabilities. In addition, it will incorporate Harry's technology and web platform, data and analytics, digital and performance marketing, shopper experience and engagement capabilities to drive growth. . The companies intend to combine their best-in-class capabilities in brand building, product technology and direct-to-consumer experiences to build next generation brands. This approach includes offering differentiated products driven by real consumer pain points, building modern and relatable brands and establishing deep consumer connections through fully integrated omni-channel experiences. The platform will benefit from Edgewell's retailer relationships, R&D, supply chain, manufacturing presence, global scale and distribution capabilities. In addition, it will incorporate Harry's technology and web platform, data and analytics, digital and performance marketing, shopper experience and engagement capabilities to drive growth. Delivering Meaningful Cost and Revenue Synergies: The companies expect to generate approximately $20 million of EBITDA in annual cost savings by 2023, driven primarily by production and supply chain optimization, purchasing and distribution efficiencies and SG&A rationalization. These cost synergies are in addition to the $225 to $240 million of gross cost savings that are expected to be achieved through the continued execution of Project Fuel. In addition, the companies expect to deliver approximately $20 million of EBITDA in annual revenue synergies by 2023, driven primarily through the combined company's footprint, international expansion, product and brand enhancement and new brand and category launches. The companies expect to generate approximately of EBITDA in annual cost savings by 2023, driven primarily by production and supply chain optimization, purchasing and distribution efficiencies and SG&A rationalization. These cost synergies are in addition to the to of gross cost savings that are expected to be achieved through the continued execution of Project Fuel. In addition, the companies expect to deliver approximately of EBITDA in annual revenue synergies by 2023, driven primarily through the combined company's footprint, international expansion, product and brand enhancement and new brand and category launches. Driving Cash Flow and Portfolio Refinement to Enable Deleveraging: The combined company is expected to generate $200 - $300 million of annual organic free cash flow, which will enable it to accelerate the de-leveraging of its balance sheet by approximately one turn per year. In addition, Edgewell is continuing its previously announced exploration of strategic alternatives for its Feminine Care and Infant Care businesses, including the potential sale of one or both businesses. Should a divestiture occur, proceeds would be used to pay down a portion of the combined company's debt. The combined company is expected to have pro forma gross debt / EBITDA of 5.2x upon completion of the transaction and less than 3.5x by year two post close. Terms and Financing Under the terms of the agreement, approximately 79% of the total value of the transaction will be paid in cash and 21% will be paid in Edgewell common stock. Upon completion of the transaction, Harry's shareholders will own approximately 11% of Edgewell. The transaction has been approved by Edgewell's and Harry's Boards of Directors and is expected to close by the end of the first quarter of calendar 2020, subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions and receipt of regulatory clearance. Edgewell intends to finance the transaction through a combination of cash on its balance sheet, net new debt and equity. Bank of America Merrill Lynch has provided committed financing in connection with the transaction. Leadership and Governance The Executive Team of the combined company will comprise leaders with strong entrepreneurial and public company experience and will reflect a forward-thinking culture and approach with the ability to attract exceptional talent. The combined company will be led by Edgewell's President and Chief Executive Officer, Rod Little. In addition to Andy Katz-Mayfield and Jeff Raider leading the U.S. business, Colin Hutchison will continue to serve as Chief Operating Officer and will lead the combined company's international division. Additionally, Dan Sullivan will serve as Chief Financial Officer, Marisa Iasenza will serve as the Chief Legal Officer and John Hill will serve as the Chief Human Resources Officer. Upon completion of the transaction, the combined company's board of directors will be expanded to add a new director selected by representatives of Harry's. Edgewell Second Quarter 2019 Results and Conference Call In a separate press release issued today, Edgewell released its results for the second quarter 2019. The Company's earnings press release can be found on its website at https://ir.edgewell.com. Edgewell and members of Harry's management team will hold a conference call today, May 9, 2019 at 8:00 a.m. Eastern Time to discuss the transaction, as well as Edgewell's second quarter 2019 results. All interested parties may access a live webcast of this conference call at www.edgewell.com, under the "Investors," and "News and Events" tabs or by using the following link: http://ir.edgewell.com/news-and-events/events. For those unable to participate during the live webcast, a replay will be available on www.edgewell.com, under the "Investors," "Financial Reports," and "Quarterly Earnings" tabs. Advisors Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC and Perella Weinberg Partners LP are serving as financial advisors to Edgewell and Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz is serving as Edgewell's legal advisor. Centerview Partners LLC is serving as financial advisor to Harry's and Latham & Watkins LLP and O'Melveny & Myers LLP are serving as its legal advisors. About Edgewell Personal Care Edgewell is a leading pure-play consumer products company with an attractive, diversified portfolio of established brand names such as Schick and Wilkinson Sword men's and women's shaving systems and disposable razors; Edge and Skintimate shave preparations; Playtex, Stayfree, Carefree and o.b. feminine care products; Banana Boat and Hawaiian Tropic sun care products; Playtex infant feeding; Diaper Genie; Bulldog and Jack Black male skin care and grooming products; and Wet Ones moist wipes. The Company has a broad global footprint and operates in more than 50 markets, including the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Germany, Japan and Australia, with approximately 6,000 employees worldwide. About Harry's, Inc. Harry's, Inc. builds and scales the next great consumer product brands by putting people first and delivering against real unmet consumer needs. Today, Harry's, Inc. is comprised of Harry's the company's flagship brand, founded in 2013 by Andy Katz-Mayfield and Jeff Raider Flamingo and Harry's Labs. Harry's owns and operates its own razor factory in Eisfeld, Germany, employs more than 900 people across the U.S., U.K. and Germany, and sells products direct-to-consumers at https://www.harrys.com/en/us, as well as in retailers nationwide. Harry's, Inc. is headquartered in New York City. For more information on Harry's, please visit https://www.harrys.com/en/us. Forward-Looking Statement This press release and some of our comments contain "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 provides a safe harbor for forward-looking statements made by or on behalf of Edgewell Personal Care Company ("Edgewell", "we" or "our Company") or any of our businesses. These statements are not based on historical facts, but instead reflect our expectations, estimates, or projections concerning future results or events, including, without limitation, the future earnings and performance of the Company, the anticipated benefits of the proposed acquisition of Harry's, and the timing of consummation of such acquisition. These statements are not guarantees of performance and are inherently subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and assumptions that are difficult to predict and could cause our actual results to differ materially from those indicated by those statements. We cannot assure you that any of our expectations, estimates or projections will be achieved. You should not place undue reliance on these statements. Forward-looking statements generally can be identified by the use of words or phrases such as "believe," "expect," "expectation," "anticipate," "may," "could," "intend," "belief," "estimate," "plan," "target," "predict," "likely," "will," "should," "forecast," "outlook," or other similar words or phrases and relate, in this press release, without limitation, to: statements, beliefs, projections, and expectations regarding the proposed acquisition of Harry's; the timing for completion of the transaction; the ability to complete the transaction, on the anticipated terms or at all; key terms and anticipated benefits of the transaction; availability and terms of financing related to the transaction; and the transaction's impact on the Company's business and financial results, including its go-forward management, vision and strategy. In addition, other risks and uncertainties not presently known to us or that we presently consider immaterial could significantly affect the forward-looking statements, including, but not limited to: the occurrence of any event, change or other circumstances that could give rise to the termination of the definitive agreement to acquire Harry's; the risk that the necessary regulatory approvals may not be obtained or may be delayed or obtained subject to conditions that are not anticipated; the risk that the transaction will not be consummated in a timely manner; the risk that the Company will experience unanticipated delays or difficulties and transaction costs in consummating the transaction; the risk that any of the closing conditions to the transaction may not be satisfied in a timely manner or at all; the risk related to disruption from the transaction and the related diverting of management's attention making it more difficult to maintain business and operational relationships; the failure to realize the benefits expected from the transaction or other related strategic initiatives; the impact of the transaction on the Company's share price and market volatility; the effect of the announcement of the transaction on the ability of the Company to retain customers and suppliers, retain or hire key personnel, and maintain relationships with customers, suppliers and lenders; the effect of the transaction or the announcement and completion of related transactions on the Company's operating results and businesses generally; the impact of any future acquisitions or additional divestitures, restructurings, refinancings, and other unusual items, including the Company's ability to raise or retire debt or equity and to integrate and obtain the anticipated benefits, results and/or synergies from these items or other related strategic initiatives; and the possibility of more attractive strategic options arising in the future. Additional information concerning these and other factors that could cause the Company's actual results to vary is, or will be, included in the Company's periodic and other reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The Company undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Industry, market and competitive position data described in this presentation were obtained from the Company's own internal estimates and research, as well as from industry and general publications and research, surveys and studies conducted by third parties. While the Company believes its internal estimates and research are reliable and the market definitions are appropriate, such estimates, research and definitions have not been verified by any independent source. You are cautioned not to place undue reliance on this data. Contacts for Edgewell Personal Care Investors: Chris Gough Edgewell Personal Care +1 203-944-5706 Media: Matthew Sherman / Aaron Palash Joele Frank, Wilkinson Brimmer Katcher +1 212-355-4449 Contact for Harry's Abby Dixon Derris [email protected] +1 646-362-4687 SOURCE Edgewell Personal Care Company Related Links http://edgewell.com SAO JOSE DOS CAMPOS, Brazil, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Embraer S.A. (" the Company " or " Embraer ") hereby informs its shareholders and the market in general that, in this exceptional circumstance, it will not disclose its quarterly financial information for the first quarter of 2019 (" ITR for 1Q2019 ") within the period established in CVM Instruction 480/09. This is due to the separation of assets and liabilities of the Commercial Aviation business and its associated services (" Commercial Aviation Unit ") for the purposes of the initial application of the required accounting treatment, following the approval of the strategic partnership with The Boeing Company in the Company's extraordinary general meeting held on February 26, 2019 (" the Transaction "). However, considering its commitment to transparency with its investors and the market, the Company informs that the publication of its results (earnings press release) will remain on May 15, 2019, without the effect of the separation of the Commercial Aviation Unit as a discontinued operation, along with the respective public presentation to shareholders and the market. Embraer will release the ITR for 1Q2019 revised by the external auditors as soon as it completes the separation work of the Commercial Aviation Unit. Embraer clarifies that the consummation of the Transaction remains subject to approval by Brazilian, United States, and other applicable jurisdictional authorities, as well as the satisfaction of other usual conditions in such transactions. Nelson Krahenbuhl Salgado Executive Vice President of Finance and Investor Relations PRESS OFFICES: Headquarters (Brazil) Corporate Communications [email protected] Cell: +55 11 98890 7777 Tel.: +55 11 4873 7984 North America Alyssa Ten Eyck [email protected] Cell: +1 954 383 0460 Tel.: +1 954 359 3847 Europe, Middle East and Africa Guy Douglas [email protected] Cell: +31 (0)657120121 Tell: +31 (0)202158109 China Mirage Zhong [email protected] Cell: +86 185 1378 5180 Tel.: +86 10 6598 9988 Asia Pacific Nilma Missir-Boissac [email protected] Cell: +65 9012 8428 Tel.: +65 6305 9955 SOURCE Embraer S.A. BIRMINGHAM, Ala., May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Encompass Health Corp. (NYSE: EHC) today announced it will participate in the William Blair 39th Annual Growth Stock Conference being held in Chicago on June 5-6, 2019. Encompass Health President and Chief Executive Officer Mark Tarr will present on Wednesday, June 5 at 11:20 a.m. CT/12:20 p.m. ET. The presentation will be webcast live and will be available at http://investor.encompasshealth.com by clicking on an available link. About Encompass Health As a national leader in integrated healthcare services, Encompass Health (NYSE: EHC) offers both facility-based and home-based patient care through its network of inpatient rehabilitation hospitals, home health agencies and hospice agencies. With a national footprint that includes 130 hospitals, 221 home health locations, and 59 hospice locations in 37 states and Puerto Rico, the Company is committed to delivering high-quality, cost-effective, integrated care across the healthcare continuum. Encompass Health is ranked as one of Fortune's 100 Best Companies to Work For. For more information, visit encompasshealth.com, or follow us on our newsroom, Twitter and Facebook. Media Contact: Hillary Carnel | 205-970-5912 [email protected] Investor Relations Contact: Crissy Carlisle | 205-970-5860 [email protected] SOURCE Encompass Health Corp. Related Links http://www.encompasshealth.com OXFORD, England, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Evox Therapeutics Ltd ('Evox' or the 'Company'), a leading exosome therapeutics company, is pleased to announce the appointments of Bo Kara as VP Process Development and Simon Dew as VP of Business Development. Bo has over 30 years' experience in the biotechnology industry. He joins Evox from his position as Head of Process Development at GlaxoSmithKline's cell & gene therapy division, bringing with him extensive experience in product development. At GlaxoSmithKline, Bo was responsible for all aspects of process development, the implementation of manufacturing strategies, and oversaw development across the full commercialisation process from pre-candidate through to post-commercial support. Prior to this, he spent eight years as Director Science and Technology at Fujifilm Diosynth Biotechnologies, and also held roles at AstraZeneca. Simon has joined Evox from Gyroscope Therapeutics where he held the position of VP of Corporate Strategy. In this role, he developed medium- to long-term value generating strategies while helping to expand the pipeline and evaluate potential new therapeutic areas. Over the past 25 years, Simon has held a number of business and corporate development roles at Astellas Pharmaceuticals, Quintiles Transnational, PAREXEL International, Phytopharm, SmithKline Beecham and Bristol Myers Squibb. Commenting on the appointments, Dr Antonin de Fougerolles said: "The appointment of these two highly regarded and experienced executives reflects the continued growth of Evox Therapeutics. As we enter the next stage of our development, we will look to use the knowledge and expertise that both Bo and Simon bring to guide us in advancing a pipeline of exosome therapeutics both for ourselves and for partners." About Evox Therapeutics Evox Therapeutics is a privately held, Oxford-based biotechnology company focused on harnessing and engineering the natural delivery capabilities of extracellular vesicles, known as exosomes, to develop an entirely new class of therapeutics. Backed by leading life sciences venture capital groups and supported by a comprehensive intellectual property portfolio, Evox's mission is to positively impact human health by creating novel exosome-based therapeutics for the treatment of various severe diseases with limited options for patients and their families. Evox has created substantial proprietary technology to modify exosomes using various molecular engineering, drug loading, and targeting strategies to facilitate targeted drug delivery to organs of interest, including the brain and the central nervous system. Exosome-based drugs have the potential to address some of the limitations of protein, antibody and nucleic acid-based therapies by enabling delivery to cells and tissues that are currently out of reach using other drug delivery technologies, and Evox is leading the development within this emerging therapeutic space. For further information visit: www.evoxtherapeutics.com SOURCE Evox Therapeutics Related Links http://www.evoxtherapeutics.com/ DEERFIELD BEACH, Fla., May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- At a time when the drug and suicide epidemic is at a peak in this country, more people than ever are seeking mental healthcare and not getting the help they need, thanks to a dire shortage of addiction and mental health professionals. Now, the Florida-based behavioral healthcare provider, FHE Health, is launching a new initiative to address the crisis. Starting June 15, on the heels of "Mental Health Month," FHE Health will begin accepting applications for the FHE Health "Hope for Healing Scholarship." The $5000 scholarship will be awarded to one qualified undergraduate student and one qualified graduate student whose area of study is in mental and behavioral health or psychiatric nursing. "Investing in the future of behavioral healthcare has always been a value that we hold dear at FHE Health, and it's an urgent priority in the face of today's addiction and mental health epidemic," said FHE Health Board Chairman Dr. Adel Abumoustafa. "Too many Americans go without any mental healthcare because there aren't enough trained professionals to help them. We want to change that reality. That's why FHE Health is offering the Hope for Healing Scholarship." Nearly one in five people in the United States suffers from a mental illness, according to the National Institute of Mental Health; and the disease burden of mental health and substance use disorders was higher than for any other condition in 2015, the Journal of the American Medical Association reported. Meanwhile, a 2016 report by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) assessed the supply and demand for behavioral health practitioners through the year 2025, and found "significant shortages" of psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, mental health counselors and marriage and family therapists. The Hope for Healing Scholarship aims to shine a light on that shortage, and to lead by example in addressing the problem. The scholarship is a natural extension of FHE Health's longstanding commitment to shape the future of behavioral health treatment, by training the next generation of healthcare workers. FHE Health is affiliated with multiple universities in the area, including University of Miami, Barry University, Florida Atlanta University, Florida International University, whose students learn from FHE Health practitioners in areas like social work, nursing and family and psychiatric nursing. FHE Health is a treatment provider that delivers quality, medically integrated, and personalized behavioral healthcare to patients from all walks of life and with a wide variety of needs. From its headquarters in Deerfield Beach, Florida, FHE Health serves patients locally and from around the country with specialized treatment programs for addictive disorders and other behavioral health diagnoses such as mood disorders, depression, anxiety and traumatic disorders. SOURCE FHE Health Related Links https://fherehab.com COLUMBIA, Md., May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- The Foundation Fighting Blindness today announced its support for bipartisan legislation to fund treatments and cures for blindness and other forms of severe vision impairment. H.R. 2620, the Faster Treatments and Cures for Eye Diseases Act, introduced today by Reps. Sanford Bishop (D-GA) and Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA), would create a five-year pilot program for the creation of Eye Bonds financial instruments to raise money for research specifically related to a broad range of eye diseases and conditions. "On behalf of the entire blind and vision impaired community, we are grateful for the actions by these members of Congress and urge others to join as co-sponsors of this important legislation. There is no doubt that vision-saving and vision-restoring research sitting on shelves needs to be unleashed so patients can benefit. We are confident that Eye Bonds will work," says Benjamin Yerxa, PhD, chief executive officer at the Foundation. "We especially want to thank Karen and Basil Petrou, longtime Foundation leaders, for developing the Eye Bonds concept and the financial details that make the legislation so beneficial and safe for taxpayers." Eye Bonds would spur private-sector investment in translational research and advance treatments and cures for blindness and other causes of severe vision impairment. If approved by Congress, the new bonds would finance packages of loans that would total $1 billion for new projects over five years of the pilot program. Underwriters would determine how many projects they would fund and at what amount, not to exceed $250 million in any year. The National Eye Institute (NEI), part of the National Institutes of Health, would evaluate programs eligible for funding, although NEI would have no risk related to funding these projects. Eye Bonds would NOT replace existing federal funding to the NEI. Eye Bonds may be purchased by pension funds, insurance companies, and other institutional investors. The money generated will then be lent to scientific projects recommended by the NEI. When the bond matures, or comes due, the scientific project will have reached a stage of development that it will have commercial value or be eligible for other funding, enabling the loan recipient to repay the Eye Bond. Eye Bonds will be backed by a limited federal guarantee to provide the security needed for pension funds and other private investors to purchase them. This legislation holds enormous promise for saving and restoring the vision of the 4 million adults and almost half-a-million children in the U.S. who are blind or have severely impaired vision from a variety of eye diseases and conditions, including age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and sickle-cell retinopathy. Furthermore, Eye Bonds would advance treatments and cures for diseases and conditions that affect the entire eye, including the severe vision trauma suffered by veterans of wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. Eye Bonds fill a critical need, because many promising therapies never make it through the translational research process out of labs and into clinical trials because of a lack of funding; translational research is often referred to as "crossing the Valley of Death" for this reason. Pharmaceutical companies and biotechs are less likely to fund translational research. They prefer to fund projects once they have had some initial success in a clinical trial. This is even more the case with rare diseases or conditions without a proven regulatory pathway or demonstrated commercial success. Eye bonds would fund this vital research at minimal risk to the taxpayer, who would be the first to be repaid when private investors recoup their investments. The Foundation believes these innovative research bonds will prove successful and the concept could be used to overcome obstacles that also exist in translating cancer, Alzheimer's, Parkinson's and other disease research into practical use. The Foundation Fighting Blindness has been an unparalleled leader in supporting research on inherited retinal diseases for more than 48 years. It is currently funding 75 research studies at prominent laboratories worldwide and on the spectrum of emerging retinal disease therapies including gene, cell and drug-based treatments. ABOUT FOUNDATION FIGHTING BLINDNESS The Foundation Fighting Blindness was established in 1971. It has since raised more than $750 million for research aimed at preventing, treating and curing blindness caused by retinal degenerative diseases. In excess of 10 million Americans, and millions more worldwide, have experienced or are at risk of experiencing vision loss due to retinal degeneration. Through its support of focused and innovative science, the Foundation drives the research that has and will continue to improve the lives of people affected by retinitis pigmentosa, macular degeneration, Usher syndrome and other inherited retinal diseases. The Foundation has launched a global patient registry, www.MyRetinaTracker.org , to build knowledge of retinal diseases and advance clinical research. Visit www.FightBlindness.org for the latest information on retinal disease research. Follow the Foundation on Facebook and Twitter . Contact: Ben Shaberman [email protected] 410-499-9158 SOURCE Foundation Fighting Blindness Related Links http://www.fightblindness.org WALTHAM, Mass., May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Fresenius Medical Care North America (FMCNA), the nation's leading renal care company, headquartered in Waltham, Mass., welcomes the National Kidney Foundation (NKF) Spring Clinical Meetings to Boston. The company is presenting 17 abstracts and posters highlighting efforts to improve patient outcomes, including a retrospective analysis that suggests home peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients who are remotely monitored by a connected Liberty Cycler machine stay on the modality longer, have higher transplantation rates and lower mortality rates. "We are pleased to welcome this important clinical meeting by the National Kidney Foundation to our company's hometown," said Bill Valle, CEO of FMCNA. "Our many presentations at the NKF Spring Clinical Meetings reinforce our commitment to driving vital industry research to ensure the highest quality of care possible for people living with kidney disease." For more than 25 years, nephrology healthcare professionals from across the country have come to the NKF Spring Clinical Meetings to learn about the newest developments related to all aspects of clinical nephrology and to present their research findings. It is being held this year from May 8-12 at the Hynes Convention Center in Boston. In a poster presentation titled "Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM) and Longevity on Peritoneal Dialysis (PD)," data from 714 patients using remote monitoring with the Liberty Cycler was compared to 12,032 patients using standard communication between 2012-2017. The retrospective analysis shows that patients who used remote monitoring stayed on PD an average of 44 days longer, had an 11 percent lower rate of stopping PD and a 19 percent higher rate of transplantation. "Our research continues to demonstrate the benefits of connected health platforms for our home dialysis machines, including the Liberty Cycler and NxStage System One," said Dr. Robert Kossmann, Chief Medical Officer for FMCNA. "We are committed to furthering innovation around connected health technologies to ensure home dialysis is even better and easier for our patients." Highlights of FMCNA poster presentations and abstracts at the 2019 NKF Spring Clinical Meeting include: Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM) and Longevity on Peritoneal Dialysis (PD): An Analysis Controlling for Confounding by PD Start Year . This data analysis shows how home dialysis patients using remote monitoring with the Liberty Cycler stayed on the modality longer and achieved higher transplantation rates. This poster (number 371) will be presented by Linda Ficociello, DSc. . This data analysis shows how home dialysis patients using remote monitoring with the Liberty Cycler stayed on the modality longer and achieved higher transplantation rates. This poster (number 371) will be presented by Treatment Adherence and Technique Failure Risk in Home Hemodialysis Patients. This observational research demonstrates that higher home hemodialysis (HHD) treatment adherence is associated with lower risk of technique failure. It also suggests that dialysis providers can use Nx2me Connected Health to measure HHD treatment adherence in a timely manner and improve patient retention on HHD. This poster (number 376) will be presented by Eric Weinhandl , PhD. This observational research demonstrates that higher home hemodialysis (HHD) treatment adherence is associated with lower risk of technique failure. It also suggests that dialysis providers can use Nx2me Connected Health to measure HHD treatment adherence in a timely manner and improve patient retention on HHD. This poster (number 376) will be presented by , PhD. Impacts of Ultrasound Guided Access Cannulations in Hemodialysis Patients . This quality improvement pilot shows how ultrasound guided cannulation using a handheld ultrasound device may improve success rates and decrease infiltrations. This poster presentation (number 307) will be given by Sheetal Chaudhuri . This quality improvement pilot shows how ultrasound guided cannulation using a handheld ultrasound device may improve success rates and decrease infiltrations. This poster presentation (number 307) will be given by . Algorithm for Scheduling Nurse Visits for Dialysis Patients. This presentation highlights an effort to automate the scheduling of nurses which may improve efficiency, give priority to patients that need more visits and allow for high priority patients to be seen sooner, avoiding unnecessary hospitalizations. This poster (number 430) will be presented by Andrew Long , PhD. More information about the NKF Spring Clinical Meetings can be found here: kidney.org/spring-clinical About Fresenius Medical Care North America Fresenius Medical Care North America (FMCNA) is the premier healthcare company focused on providing the highest quality care to people with renal and other chronic conditions. Through its industry-leading network of dialysis facilities, outpatient cardiac and vascular labs and urgent care centers, Fresenius Medical Care North America provides coordinated healthcare services at pivotal care points for hundreds of thousands of chronically ill customers throughout the continent. As the world's largest fully integrated renal company, it offers specialty pharmacy and laboratory services, and manufactures and distributes the most comprehensive line of dialysis equipment, disposable products and renal pharmaceuticals. For more information, visit the FMCNA website at https://fmcna.com. Media Contact: Fresenius Medical Care North America Brad Puffer Director of Public Relations [email protected] (781) 699-3331 SOURCE Fresenius Medical Care Holdings, Inc. Related Links https://fmcna.com ATLANTA, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- The Technology Association of Georgia (TAG) will gather top national cyber security leaders for the first-ever Cyber Alliance Forum on June 11 in downtown Atlanta. Headlining the event as scheduled keynote speaker is Jeanette Manfra, the Assistant Director of Cybersecurity for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency. Manfra will be joined by a high-profile cyber security panel that includes global thought leaders on the latest cyber defense strategies. Panelists include: Maj. Gen. Patricia A. Frost (Ret.), Former Director of Cyber, Office of the Deputy Chief of Staff, U.S. Army (Ret.), Former Director of Cyber, Office of the Deputy Chief of Staff, U.S. Army Geoff Hancock , Principal & CISO, Advanced Cyber Security Group , Principal & CISO, Advanced Cyber Security Group Shaun Khalfan , Information Risk Leader, Freddie Mac , Information Risk Leader, Freddie Mac Kimberly Watson , Technical Director for Integrated Adaptive Cyber Defense, Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory The interactive event also features a "live hack," allowing participants to experience a live cyber attack and watch as leading experts react and engage, using real-time cyber defense techniques. "TAG is excited to host preeminent, global leaders in cyber security for this event at a time when the threat of a cyber attack presents a constant challenge to technology companies and their leaders," said Larry K. Williams, President and CEO of TAG. "This event also offers a rare opportunity to learn in real-time how the nation's leading cyber defense experts react to a cyber attack using the latest defense strategies." The Cyber Alliance Forum will be held June 11 from 1:30pm-6:30pm at Ventanas in Atlanta, with a networking reception immediately following the event. For information on sponsorships and speaking opportunities contact Kyle Ross at [email protected]. To sign up, visit tagonline.org About The Technology Association of Georgia (TAG) TAG is the leading technology industry association in the state, serving more than 30,000 members through regional chapters in Metro Atlanta, Athens, Augusta, Columbus, Macon/Middle Georgia, and Savannah. TAG's mission is to educate, promote, influence and unite Georgia's technology community to foster an innovative and connected marketplace to fuel the innovation economy. The association provides networking and educational programs; celebrates Georgia's technology leaders and companies; and advocates for legislative action that enhances the state's economic climate for technology. TAG hosts over 200 events each year and serves as an umbrella organization for 27 professional societies. Additionally, the TAG Education Collaborative (TAG's charitable arm) focuses on helping science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) education initiatives thrive. For more information visit the TAG website at www.tagonline.org or TAG's community website at www.hubga.com. To learn about the TAG-Ed Collaborative visit http://www.tagedonline.org/. Technology Association of Georgia Julie Bryant Fisher [email protected] (404) 920-2023 SOURCE Technology Association of Georgia Related Links http://www.tagonline.org GRAND RAPIDS, Mich., May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Ranir, LLC, a leading global manufacturer of store brand and value brand oral care products under the Plackers and REMBRANDT trademarks, today announced it has entered into a definitive agreement to be acquired by Perrigo Company plc (NYSE; TASE: PRGO), a leading global provider of Quality, Affordable Self-Care Products for $750 million. As a global leader in the store brand oral care market, Ranir's innovative technology spans consumer brands and private label products, including power and manual toothbrushes, teeth whiteners, dental floss, flossers and interdental brushes. Founded in 1979, Ranir's original mission was to provide its retail partners with store brand dental floss, and soon thereafter, manual toothbrushes. The company quickly grew to become the leader in both categories and later expanded offerings to include teeth whitening products, power toothbrushes and other oral healthcare products. Ranir's corporate headquarters in Grand Rapids, Michigan, houses its primary manufacturing facilities, which are designed to meet future growth. Perrigo's North American base of operations is also located in West Michigan, with facilities in Allegan, Michigan. Ranir has achieved substantial growth organically and through strategic acquisitions that extended the company's distribution network, enhanced its new product pipeline and expanded its geographic footprint. Perrigo's acquisition of Ranir brings together two similar organizations to progress these shared goals. Ranir's manufacturing expertise and focus on consumer and customer-driven product innovation had broadened the company's purpose to provide access to affordable oral self-care with store brand products that offer exceptional quality and value. "Affordable self-care has never been more important as we face ever-increasing healthcare costs," said Rich Sorota, president and chief executive officer of Ranir. "We've worked hard over the past several years to execute a comprehensive growth plan to advance our purpose of 'Delivering Millions of Affordable, Healthy Smiles' every day. As part of this plan, we are taking the next step in our transformation, while remaining fully committed to our heritage and values. Our two companies are immensely complementary and aligned in our greater purpose and mission. Our combined talents, scale, global presence, innovation, and understanding of self-care will help support not only our local communities, but also our suppliers, retail partners and their consumers. This ultimately enables us to better pursue our purpose worldwide." Perrigo President and CEO Murray S. Kessler commented, "The addition of Ranir to the Perrigo family illustrates a key component of our new strategy; accelerating growth by pursuing adjacent self-care categories. I can't emphasize enough the opportunity we believe that exists by combining these two companies that are so closely aligned. This is highlighted by their geographic proximity, scale in store brands, leading market shares, strong and complementary customer relationships, a focus on quality, similar company cultures and a shared belief in the opportunity presented by the self-care mega-trend. We expect this strategic combination will enhance shareholder value." William Blair & Company, L.L.C. acted as the exclusive financial advisor for Ranir on the transaction. Kirkland & Ellis LLP acted as legal advisor to Ranir. Perrigo received legal advice from Morgan, Lewis & Bockius. Ranir products can be found anywhere oral care products are sold including more than 150,000 store front and online retailers in more than 50 countries. The company employs more than 650 people worldwide and has proprietary and patented products, as well as a growing portfolio of consumer brands. About Ranir, LLC Ranir is a leading global manufacturer of store brand private label consumer oral care products, including power and manual toothbrushes, teeth whiteners, dental floss, flossers and interdental brushes. Founded in 1979, Grand Rapids, Michigan-based Ranir serves retail customers globally and is committed to delivering affordable, healthy smiles in millions of households every day. Its products, which include some of the world's largest oral care store brands, can be found at major retailers in more than 50 countries. The consumer and customer insight driven research and development-focused company also owns, manufactures and markets the Plackers and REMBRANDT brands and proudly employs more than 650 associates worldwide. For more information, visit www.ranir.com. About Perrigo Perrigo Company plc (NYSE;TASE: PRGO) is dedicated to making lives better by bringing "Quality, Affordable Self-care Products" that consumers trust everywhere they are sold. The Company is a leading provider of over-the-counter health and wellness solutions that enhance individual well-being by empowering consumers to proactively prevent or treat conditions that can be self-managed. Visit Perrigo online at (http://www.perrigo.com). FOR FURTHER INFORMATION: Tyler Deur [email protected] 616-258-5775 SOURCE Ranir, LLC Related Links http://www.ranir.com ROCKVILLE, Md., May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Goodwill Industries International (GII) Veterans and Military Families Program Manager Pamela Johnson, MBA, has been appointed by Secretary of Labor R. Alexander Acosta to serve on the Advisory Committee on Veterans' Employment, Training and Employer Outreach (ACVETEO). The ACVETEO is a congressionally mandated advisory committee authorized under Section 4110 of Title 38, U.S. Code, and is subject to the Federal Advisory Committee Act (FACA). The ACVETEO assesses the employment and training needs of veterans and their integration into the workforce; determines the extent to which the programs and activities of the Department of Labor are meeting such needs; assists the Assistant Secretary of Labor for Veterans' Employment and Training (ASVET) in carrying out outreach activities to employers with respect to the training and skills of veterans and the advantages afforded employers by hiring veterans; and makes recommendations to the Secretary, through the ASVET, with respect to outreach activities and employment and training needs of veterans. "I'm honored to use my professional and personal expertise to help our nation's veterans explore new avenues to employment," Johnson said. "Many veterans face challenges transitioning from military to civilian life. I pledge to do all I can in this new role to honor their sacrifice and service, and to support them in finding fulfillment through the power of work." Johnson served in the U.S. Army for nine years and, as a lifelong track-and-field athlete, she joined the Army's World-Class Athlete Program. Following her time in the military, she faced more than a year of unemployment and struggled to find a match between her military skills and civilian positions. After connecting with Goodwill Industries of Houston (TX), a local and independent 501(c)(3) organization, she was hired as an employment specialist and later promoted to program manager, where she managed the daily operations, staff and budget of $1 million federally and privately funded programs. In 2013, she joined GII, where she supports local Goodwill organizations in providing veteran-centric holistic strategies and financial capacity-building strategies across the country. Johnson also oversees the Operation: GoodJobs (OGJ) initiative, funded by the Walmart Foundation and USAA. The initiative provides comprehensive services for both veterans and military families. Johnson equips local Goodwill organizations with the resources and innovations they need to develop successful veterans-serving programs through advocacy, strategic partnerships, program design and operational effectiveness. Since the launch of OGJ in 2013, it has served more than 7,820 veterans and military family members. For more information about the Department of Labor's ACVETEO, visit https://www.dol.gov/vets/aboutvets/advisorycommittee.htm. To learn about what the Veterans' Employment and Training Service (VETS) offers transitioning military, veterans and employers looking to hire, visit www.veterans.gov. About Goodwill Industries International Goodwill Industries International (GII) is a network of 160 community-based, autonomous organizations in the United States and Canada with a presence in 13 other countries. For the past three years, Goodwill was ranked in the top five brands that inspired consumers the most with its mission in the World Value Index, commissioned by the creative agency, enso. Goodwill has been on Forbes' list of top 20 most inspiring companies for three consecutive years, the only nonprofit featured on that list. Local Goodwill organizations are innovative and sustainable social enterprises that offer job placement and training services, and other community-based programs by selling donated clothing and household items in more than 3,300 stores collectively and online at shopgoodwill.com. Goodwill helps people facing challenges to finding employment, including people with disabilities, veterans and military families, youth and young adults, older workers, people reintegrating into society, and others working to advance their careers. Local Goodwill organizations build revenues and expand employment opportunities by contracting with commercial, state, government and non-government organizations to provide a wide range of business services, including janitorial and grounds maintenance, flexible staffing, food service, manufacturing and contracts packaging, reverse logistics, document imaging and shredding, and laundry services. Last year, local Goodwill organizations collectively placed more than 288,000 people in employment in the United States and Canada. In addition, more than 31 million people used computers and mobile devices to access Goodwill education, training, mentoring and online learning services to strengthen their skills, and more than two million people received in-person services. Goodwill is both an icon and accessible neighbor: more than 82 percent of the U.S. population resides within 10 miles of a Goodwill location. For more information or to find a Goodwill location near you, visit goodwill.org, or call (800) GOODWILL. Follow us on Twitter: @GoodwillIntl and @GoodwillCapHill, and find us on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube: GoodwillIntl. SOURCE Goodwill Industries International Related Links http://www.goodwill.org SEATTLE, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Just in time for the spring rains and summer vacation season, Hawaiian Sunsets recently launched a series of umbrellas with beautiful designs that protects users from both the rain and the damaging Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. Hawaiian Sunsets umbrellas are lavishly colored and stylish to be both fashionable and functional. The umbrellas are currently available for purchase on Amazon.com, with a limited-time 10 percent off coupon. Protection from Sun and Rain Beautiful designs that make you stand out from the crowd Designed to stand out from a sea of black umbrellas, Hawaiian Sunsets umbrellas are currently available in five elegant designs that look great in photos. Each design is printed either on the outside of the umbrella for those who like a bit of flair or on the inside for those who prefer to admire the colorful designs while under grey skies. UV Protection Many sunscreens only protect against UVB rays. For this reason, an extra layer of protection from the sun was added to every umbrella to protect the skin from harmful UVA and UVB radiation and prevent premature aging of the skin. This additional layer provides UPF 50+ protection which block 98 percent of UV rays. Umbrellas from Hawaiian Sunsets were intended to be used in the direct sun as well as rain, protecting the skin from the damaging UV rays and helping the user to feel cooler under the hot sun. Compact, Comfortable and Wind Resistant Umbrellas from Hawaiian Sunsets are wind resistant and lightweight - weighing less than a pound and only 13 inches long when closed. With large comfortable handles, these umbrellas were designed to be easily held and fit comfortably in your hands. A single push of the auto open/close button opens and extends the umbrella, while another press of the button closes the canopy. Most umbrellas are made with plastic ribs that can easily break in the wind. The umbrellas from Hawaiian Sunsets were constructed with ribs made of fiberglass that allows them to bend and bounce back like the supple limbs of a tree in the wind. 30-Day Money-Back Guarantee Hawaiian Sunsets umbrellas are fully backed by a 30-Day Money-Back guarantee, allowing worry-free purchases. About Hawaiian Sunsets Hawaiian Sunsets is the maker of a variety of fashionable umbrellas and other products intended to protect from sun and rain. Created in 2018, Hawaiian Sunset's signature line of umbrellas are both stylish and wind resistant, while providing excellent UV protection. Available exclusively on Amazon.com, Hawaiian Sunsets is currently developing other products for the whole family. Contact: Jeff Su, Marketing Coordinator 206-914-0874 [email protected] SOURCE Hawaiian Sunsets HUNTINGTON, N.Y., May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- URS Capital Partners is a multifamily real estate investment company headquartered in Huntington, NY that acquires value-add apartment complexes as well as Opportunity Zone projects throughout the Southeast and Northeast. In April, URS acquired 7+ acres of land in a Qualified Opportunity Zone to build 256 units in South Portland, Maine. URS was able to utilize a combination of private equity sourced through URS' private network of high net worth investors combined with a construction loan from Bar Harbor Bank in ME. Rendering of Latitude at South Portland Christopher Urso, the Managing Partner of URS Capital Partners states, "The South Portland market is severely underserved with the occupancy rate hovering around 95%. We will break ground in May, anticipating a 2- month construction period, with stabilization at 36 months. With carefully selected finishes and attention to attractive floor plans, we plan on Latitude at South Portland becoming a best in class asset, offering the amenities of the properties in the city center of Portland at an attractive price point only 10 minutes away from downtown. Our business plan is to hold the asset for 10 years to maximize the OZ benefits." "URS' total acquisitions to date are over $250M and we are looking to continue our growth in 2019 as we pursue additional more traditional value-add opportunities as well as Opportunity Zone projects that are well located within our targeted markets," said Urso. Contact: Rebecca Windsor 631.683.5176 ext. 103 [email protected] SOURCE URS Capital Partners NEW YORK, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Investigators from around the country presented hundreds of studies about kidney health and chronic kidney disease during the National Kidney Foundation's 2019 Spring Clinical Meetings in Boston, May 8-12. The event is a chance for investigators to share their findings with more than 3,000 kidney healthcare professionals who attend the annual conference. Many of the presentations talk of ground-breaking research to improve the lives of kidney patients, eliminate preventable chronic kidney disease (CKD) and eliminate the kidney transplant waitlist. The work is often a springboard to further research or advancements in treatment. Some of the highlights of this year's poster presentations include: A new study of the medical data of tens of thousands of diabetic patients has found many have undiagnosed chronic kidney disease (CKD), including the most critical late stages. The study "Prevalence and Factors Associated with Undiagnosed Chronic Kidney Disease in Diabetes Mellitus" was presented to the professional community during the National Kidney Foundation's 2019 Spring Clinical Meetings in Boston this week. The authors processed and examined thousands of medical records and lab results of patients with diabetes and found that, overall, 49 percent of patients had undiagnosed CKD. Of that set, 57 percent had stage 3a CKD, 30 percent had stage 3b, 11 percent had stage 4 and 4 percent had stage 5, the most progressed form of the disease and most critical. The authors hope the study, which was presented at the annual meetings, will motivate primary care physicians (PCP) to order testing and inspire patients to ask for the information and, ultimately, make positive changes in their lifestyle that can slow the progression of the disease. "The kidney is unforgiving if being exposed to chronic inflammation or injury such as hypertension or diabetes," said co-author George Bakris, MD, of the University of Chicago Medicine. "If you have insulted it, it's not coming back. Once you have lost it, you've lost it and PCPs need to alert patients at an earlier stage." The study points to the need for the "Kidney Profile" lab work (a blood and urine test that detects CKD) annually for patients with diabetes, Dr. Bakris said. It is also important to control blood pressure, blood glucose and lipid levels to slow the progression of kidney disease, he said. In addition to Dr. Bakris, the authors include: Dr. Joseph Coresh of Johns Hopkins University; Dr. Joseph Vassalotti of the NKF and Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai; Dr. Matthew Weir of the University of Maryland; D. Pilon of Analysis Group, Inc.; J. Blais and M. Durkin of Janssen Scientific Affairs, LLC. Another study presented at the Spring Clinical Meetings suggests that socioeconomic factors play a significant role in the increased risk of pregnancy-related acute kidney injury among minority women. The study titled "Racial Disparities in Pregnancy-Related Acute Kidney Injury" was a "poster presentation" at the annual meeting of nephrology professionals by investigators from Mount Sinai Hospital in New York, NY. "The U.S. has one of the highest rates of maternal morbidity and mortality in the developed world. Non-Hispanic black women in the United States are at three to four times higher risk of pregnancy related mortality than white women, for reasons that are poorly understood and undoubtedly complex," said co-author Dr. Lili Chan of Mount Sinai, New York, NY. "To date, racial trends in pregnancy-related acute kidney injury have not been studied; although we hypothesized that minority women would have higher incidence of pregnancy-related acute kidney injury and higher risk of adverse outcomes." According to the authors, from 2005 to 2015, pregnancy related acute kidney injury has risen 300 percent. The Mount Sinai Hospital team who authored the study are Dr. Kelly Beers, Dr. Mihir Dave, Dr. Girish Nadkarni, Dr. Steven Coca and Dr. Lili Chan. A third study presented during the "Poster Presentations" at NKF's Spring Clinical Meetings analyzed 10 years' worth of data and hundreds of variables about deceased donor kidneys and the recipients who received them and it has found that with artificial intelligence (AI)specifically, training machines to learn from past experiencepredictive outcomes are more accurate and will continue to improve over time. Kidneys can then be allocated more efficiently, and with less waste than ever before, according to the author. The study is titled "Predicting Deceased Donor Kidney Transplant Outcomes: Comparing KDRI/KDPI with Machine Learning." About 21,000 kidney transplants are performed each year and the majority of the kidneys donated are from deceased donors. Thousands retrieved each year are never transplanted for a variety of reasons. Kidneys retrieved from deceased donors are currently allocated using the Kidney Donor Risk Index (KDRI) and administered by the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS). "There is insurmountable evidence that we are not taking full advantage of these discarded kidneys," said lead author and PhD candidate at The University of Iowa Eric Pahl, of OmniLife, Inc. "We are throwing away a lot of kidneys. We need to be better stewards of the gift we have in deceased donor organs." Further studies are planned, including a clinical trial that is scheduled to begin in August using the machine learning method, Pahl said. It is one of NKF's goals to reduce the number of discarded kidneys after retrieval from deceased donors and has supported initiatives that move the bar closer to eliminating the kidney transplant waitlist. In Boston, thousands of professionals in nephrology gathered to share the latest information, treatment and studies of CKD and do so every year. NKF Spring Clinical Meetings For the past 27 years, nephrology healthcare professionals from across the country have come to NKF's Spring Clinical Meetings to learn about the newest developments related to all aspects of nephrology practice; network with colleagues; and present their research findings. The NKF Spring Clinical Meetings are designed for meaningful change in the multidisciplinary healthcare teams' skills, performance, and patient health outcomes. It is the only conference of its kind that focuses on translating science into practice for the entire healthcare team. This year's Spring Clinical Meetings will be held May 8-12 in Boston, MA. NKF Professional Membership Healthcare professionals can join NKF to receive access to tools and resources for both patients and professionals, discounts on professional education, and access to a network of thousands of individuals who treat patients with kidney disease. Kidney Disease Facts In the United States, 30 million adults are estimated to have chronic kidney diseaseand most aren't aware of it. 1 in 3 American adults are at risk for chronic kidney disease. Risk factors for kidney disease include diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity and family history. People of African American, Hispanic, Native American, Asian or Pacific Islander descent are at increased risk for developing the disease. African Americans are 3 times more likely than Whites, and Hispanics are nearly 1.5 times more likely than non-Hispanics to develop end stage renal disease (kidney failure). The National Kidney Foundation (NKF) is the largest, most comprehensive, and longstanding patient-centric organization dedicated to the awareness, prevention, and treatment of kidney disease in the U.S. For more information about NKF, visit www.kidney.org. Facebook.com Twitter:@NKF www.kidney.org SOURCE National Kidney Foundation Related Links https://www.kidney.org VANCOUVER, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ - INVICTUS MD STRATEGIES CORP. ("Invictus" or the "Company") (TSXV: GENE;OTCQX: IVITF; FRA: 8IS2) the Company is pleased to announce the appointment of Trevor Dixon as a Director and Chief Operating Officer of the Company effective immediately. Mr. Dixon is the founder, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Company's wholly owned subsidiary Acreage Pharms Ltd. ("Acreage Pharms"). "Mr. Dixon brings 35 years of successful business experience to the leadership team of Invictus," said George E. Kveton, CEO of Invictus. "Trevor will continue to hold his current positions within Acreage Pharms," continued Mr. Kveton. Mr. Dixon stated that, "moving forward, it is my intention to create synergy with all of the Invictus companies and to continue to grow and further increase the Company's production and sales." Mr. Dixon advised that "Phase I and II at the Acreage Pharms facilities, located near Edson, Alberta, are in full production utilizing all eleven flowering rooms for growing both medical and recreational cannabis. Acreage Pharms continues to increase its bottled cannabis oil inventory while it awaits approval of its oil sales license in accordance with Health Canada's Cannabis Act and Cannabis Regulations. The Company eagerly awaits Acreage Pharms entering into production in its Phase III, 90,000 square foot, state of the art facility when the anticipated license amendment is awarded by Health Canada, which is expected in the fall of this year." Acreage Pharms obtained a Health Canada license to produce, grow and harvest medical cannabis on March 29, 2017 and received its sales license on May 18, 2018. Acreage Pharms continues to accept patients and retail orders for cannabis. Effective August 3, 2018, Health Canada amended Acreage Pharms license to include the production of cannabis oil and cannabis resin. On Behalf of the Board, George E. Kveton Chief Executive Officer and Director Investor Relations 1-844-800-6086 About Invictus Invictus is a global cannabis company offering a selection of products under a wide range of brands. Our integrated sales approach is defined by five pillars of distribution including medical, adult-use, international, Licensed Producer to Licensed Producer and retail stores. Acreage Pharms Ltd. has designed and is building the Phase 3, purpose-built cultivation facility, to meet all European Union Good Manufacturing Practices to facilitate international medical cannabis sales. The Company is targeting 50 percent of its production for medical cannabis nationally and internationally. For more information visit www.invictus-md.com. Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements: This release includes certain statements and information that may constitute forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws or forward-looking statements within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All statements in this news release, other than statements of historical facts, including statements regarding future estimates, plans, objectives, timing, assumptions or expectations of future performance, including that Acreage Pharms is anticipated to receive approval for from Health Canada to amend their license to allow for the sale of cannabis oil is a forward-looking statement and contains forward-looking information. Generally, forward-looking statements and information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "intends" or "anticipates", or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "should", "would" or "occur". Forward-looking statements are based on certain material assumptions and analysis made by the Company and the opinions and estimates of management as of the date of this press release, including that Acreage Pharms application to Health Canada for an amendment to their license will be successful and Acreage Pharms will receive approval for from Health Canada to amend their license to allow for the sale of cannabis oil. These forward-looking statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements or forward-looking information. Important factors that may cause actual results to vary, include, without limitation, that Acreage Pharms will not receive approval for from Health Canada to amend their license to allow for the sale of cannabis oil. Although management of the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements or forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and forward-looking information. Readers are cautioned that reliance on such information may not be appropriate for other purposes. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking statement, forward-looking information or financial out-look that are incorporated by reference herein, except in accordance with applicable securities laws. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. SOURCE Invictus MD Strategies Related Links http://invictus-md.com/ DALLAS, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Jacobs (NYSE:JEC) today announced its participation in the following upcoming investor conferences: May 15 at 10:20 a.m. ET , Heather-Wishart Smith , SVP of Innovation and Jacobs Connected Enterprise, will present at the Goldman Sachs Industrials & Materials Conference in New York . at , , SVP of Innovation and Jacobs Connected Enterprise, will present at the Goldman Sachs Industrials & Materials Conference in . May 16 at 12:00 p.m. ET , Greg McIntyre , EVP & General Manager of Jacobs Buildings & Infrastructure Americas, will present at the UBS Global Water Conference in Boston . at , , EVP & General Manager of Jacobs Buildings & Infrastructure Americas, will present at the UBS Global Water Conference in . May 29 , Steve Demetriou , Jacobs Chair and CEO, and Kevin Berryman , EVP and CFO of Jacobs, will meet with investors at the KeyBanc Capital Markets Industrials & Basic Materials Conference in Boston . , , Jacobs Chair and CEO, and , EVP and CFO of Jacobs, will meet with investors at the KeyBanc Capital Markets Industrials & Basic Materials Conference in . June 5 , Jonathan Doros , Jacobs VP of Investor Relations, will meet with investors at the Deutsche Bank Global Industrials Conference in Chicago . , , Jacobs VP of Investor Relations, will meet with investors at the Deutsche Bank Global Industrials Conference in . June 6 at 12:15 p.m. ET , Heather-Wishart Smith , SVP of Innovation and Jacobs Connected Enterprise, will present at the Baird Global Consumer, Technology & Services Conference in New York . Where applicable, interested parties can listen to related presentations and view accompanying slides on Jacobs' investor relations site. About Jacobs Jacobs leads the global professional services sector delivering solutions for a more connected, sustainable world. With approximately $12 billion in revenue and a talent force of more than 50,000, Jacobs provides a full spectrum of services including scientific, technical, professional and construction- and program-management for business, industrial, commercial, government and infrastructure sectors. For more information, visit www.jacobs.com, and connect with Jacobs on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. SOURCE Jacobs Related Links https://www.jacobs.com IRVINE, Calif., May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Jesse Gessin, a partner at the nationally recognized Irvine law firm Keller/Anderle LLP, has been certified as a life member of both the Million Dollar Advocates Forum and the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum. The Million Dollar Advocates Forum is one of the most prestigious groups of plaintiff trial lawyers in the United States. Fewer than 1% of U.S. lawyers are members. Membership in the Million Dollar Advocates Forum is limited to attorneys who have won million and multi-million dollar verdicts, awards and settlements. Gessin's areas of practice include complex commercial trials and white collar criminal defense. He is an Associate Fellow of the Litigation Counsel of America (by invitation only, limited to top of 1 percent of lawyers nationally). An outstanding trial lawyer, Gessin has tried close to 30 jury trials to verdict as lead or co-lead counsel. Gessin's selection for the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum follows his multi-million dollar jury verdict in Howard v. Howard. Topverdict.com recognizes Howard as not only the largest breach of fiduciary duty verdict in California for 2018, but also the largest legal malpractice verdict that year. Also in 2018, Gessin was an integral member of the Keller/Anderle trial team that won a rare defense class action jury verdict in downtown Los Angeles for its client MassMutual Life Insurance Co. The case is recognized as one of the Top Defense Verdicts in California for 2018 by California's leading legal publication (The Daily Journal) and one of the Top 10 Defense Verdicts in the Country by the only national courtroom television network (Courtroom View Network). Before joining Keller/Anderle, Gessin was an attorney in two different federal public defender offices, most recently in the Central District of California. Before that he practiced civil litigation, was an extern for the United States Department of Justice Criminal Division, and served a college internship in The White House. Gessin teaches trial advocacy at UC Irvine School of Law, and lectures on trial strategy and techniques throughout the United States. He is a prolific writer who has recently written articles for The Nevada Law Review, Orange County Business Journal, and other legal publications. Contact: Kay Anderle Managing Partner Address: 18300 Von Karman Ave., Suite 930 Irvine, California 92612-1057 Ph. 949.476.8700 Fax 949.476.0900 E-mail: [email protected] www.kelleranderle.com SOURCE Keller/Anderle LLP Related Links https://kelleranderle.com NEW YORK, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- J.F. Lehman & Company ("J.F. Lehman"), a leading middle-market private equity firm focused exclusively on investing in the defense, aerospace, maritime, government and environmental industries, announced today that investment affiliates have sold API Technologies ("API") to affiliates of AEA Investors LP. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed. API is a leading designer and manufacturer of high-performance components and subsystems for demanding RF / microwave and electromagnetic spectrum management applications. Headquartered in Marlborough, MA, the company provides a broad portfolio of mission-critical products to approximately 1,800 global customers supporting more than 200 programs. Since acquiring API in 2016, J.F. Lehman successfully worked with management to transform the company's operations, rationalize its product portfolio, augment research and development activities and enhance API's sales and marketing strategy resulting in substantial revenue and earnings growth. "Our successful partnership with management has enabled API to transform a collection of market-leading technologies and brands into a cohesive, growing and best-in-class enterprise," said Louis N. Mintz, Chairman of API and a Partner at J.F. Lehman. "The sale of API also represents an excellent outcome for our investors, whose continued support has been essential to our success." "We are extremely proud of the efficient, process-oriented culture and organization we have built over the past three years, and the significant operational improvements that have resulted from this company-wide effort," said Bob Tavares, President and Chief Executive Officer of API. "We have enjoyed our partnership with J.F. Lehman, and their unwavering support has enabled the successful transformation of our business and the continuing expansion of our capabilities. We are looking forward to continuing to deliver on future growth opportunities with our new partners at AEA." Glenn Shor, a member of API's Board of Directors and Partner at J.F. Lehman, added, "We are proud of the accomplishments of the API management team and the success the business achieved during our ownership period. We believe the company is well positioned to continue its trajectory and produce leading products in its core markets." Evercore Group LLC and Houlihan Lokey Capital, Inc. served as financial advisors to J.F. Lehman and Blank Rome served as lead legal counsel. BakerHostetler provided legal support related to international trade, government contracts and defense security compliance matters. Renaissance Strategic Advisors provided market vendor due diligence. For more information about J.F. Lehman & Company, please visit www.jflpartners.com. SOURCE J.F. Lehman & Company Related Links http://www.jflpartners.com HOUSTON, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- KBR, Inc. (NYSE: KBR) announced today that BP has awarded KBR's UK operating subsidiary the Engineering, Procurement and Construction Management (EPCM) contract to provide Facilities Integration and Terminal Quarters and Utilities (QU) Management for the Hub/Terminal of BP's Greater Tortue Ahmeyim Project, located at the maritime border of Senegal and Mauritania. KBR will manage the Hub/Terminal QU contractor, provide services for the QU Integrated Control, Safety System ICSS, Telecoms Systems and Supplemental Services system engineering, support and verification for the marine and civil elements of Hub/Terminal. "KBR is delighted to continue supporting BP during the execution of the integration and QU for Phase 1 of the Tortue Ahmeyim Project," said Jay Ibrahim, KBR President, Energy Solutions - Services. "We are proud to be part of this groundbreaking project which will deliver LNG revenues and gas to Africa for decades to come." About KBR, Inc. KBR is a global provider of differentiated professional services and technologies across the asset and program lifecycle within the Government Solutions and Energy sectors. KBR employs approximately 37,500 people worldwide (including our joint ventures), with customers in more than 80 countries, and operations in 40 countries, across three synergistic global businesses: Government Solutions, serving government customers globally, including capabilities that cover the full lifecycle of defense, space, aviation and other government programs and missions from research and development, through systems engineering, test and evaluation, program management, to operations, maintenance, and field logistics Technology Solutions, including proprietary technology focused on the monetization of hydrocarbons (especially natural gas and natural gas liquids) in ethylene and petrochemicals; ammonia, nitric acid and fertilizers; oil refining and gasification Energy Solutions, including onshore oil and gas; LNG (liquefaction and regasification)/GTL; oil refining; petrochemicals; chemicals; fertilizers; differentiated EPC; maintenance services (Brown & Root Industrial Services); offshore oil and gas (shallow-water, deep-water, subsea); floating solutions (FPU, FPSO, FLNG & FSRU); program management and consulting services KBR is proud to work with its customers across the globe to provide technology, value-added services, integrated EPC delivery and long term operations and maintenance services to ensure consistent delivery with predictable results. At KBR, We Deliver. Visit www.kbr.com Forward Looking Statement The statements in this press release that are not historical statements, including statements regarding future financial performance, are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws. These statements are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the company's control that could cause actual results to differ materially from the results expressed or implied by the statements. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to: the outcome of and the publicity surrounding audits and investigations by domestic and foreign government agencies and legislative bodies; potential adverse proceedings by such agencies and potential adverse results and consequences from such proceedings; the scope and enforceability of the company's indemnities from its former parent; changes in capital spending by the company's customers; the company's ability to obtain contracts from existing and new customers and perform under those contracts; structural changes in the industries in which the company operates; escalating costs associated with and the performance of fixed-fee projects and the company's ability to control its cost under its contracts; claims negotiations and contract disputes with the company's customers; changes in the demand for or price of oil and/or natural gas; protection of intellectual property rights; compliance with environmental laws; changes in government regulations and regulatory requirements; compliance with laws related to income taxes; unsettled political conditions, war and the effects of terrorism; foreign operations and foreign exchange rates and controls; the development and installation of financial systems; increased competition for employees; the ability to successfully complete and integrate acquisitions; and operations of joint ventures, including joint ventures that are not controlled by the company. KBR's most recently filed Annual Report on Form 10-K, any subsequent Form 10-Qs and 8-Ks, and other U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission filings discuss some of the important risk factors that KBR has identified that may affect the business, results of operations and financial condition. Except as required by law, KBR undertakes no obligation to revise or update publicly any forward-looking statements for any reason. SOURCE KBR, Inc. Related Links http://www.kbr.com MANILA, Philippines, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Kickstart Ventures, Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Globe Telecom, was chosen by Ayala Corporation (AC) to manage its new US$150 million venture capital fund to support startups pursuing innovations along key technology areas in data and analytics, machine learning, artificial intelligence, cloud computing, fintech, automation, real estate, retail, transport, energy, water, health and wellness, and food. The Ayala Corporation Technology Innovation Venture (ACTIVE) Fund is looking at a range of investments in Series A to Series C or early- to mid-growth stage across four key investment themes - (1) 'A Frictionless Future;' (2) 'From Automation to Augmentation;' (3) 'Innovations in Real Estate;' and (4) 'A World of Plenty'. As sole manager of ACTIVE Fund, Kickstart is responsible for seeking companies that offer innovative, scalable, sustainable solutions for the seamless integration of digital and traditional channels such as On-Demand Services, IoT, FinTech, Blockchain, E-Commerce and Omni-Channel as well as the automation and augmentation applications for Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Robotics, Big Data and Analytics, and Cloud Computing. Other target companies are those that provide green and inclusive technologies such as Clean Energy / Energy Storage / Distributed Energy, Environmental Tech / Waste Management; and smart technologies for homes, buildings, communities, property management, retail tech, and similar use cases. "While ACTIVE Fund will invest in tech companies not only in the Philippines but also abroad, our focus will be on systems and solutions, rather than pure technology," said Minette Navarrete, President of Kickstart. "Our investment themes reflect our perspective that technology and innovation are a means to positively influence the future we want to build rather than ends in themselves. By investing in solutions that can scale sustainably, and pairing equity with strategic support, we can put Ayala Corporation's assets to work in a different way, forging a future that is frictionless, symbiotic, equitable, and boldly efficient," she explained. Kickstart was launched in 2012 to support the Philippine startup ecosystem and has so far made 39 investments in digital companies, supporting 83 founders across the Philippines, Indonesia, Singapore, Malaysia, United States, Canada, and Israel. ACTIVE Fund will be its third and largest fund to-date. Kickstart investments include Toronto-based startup Wattpad, recently in the news for having inked significant content deals with Sony Pictures Television, Singapore's Mediacorp, and the Philippines' Anvil Publishing; Indonesia's C88, which announced a $28M Series C round last year; and the Philippines' Coins.ph, which was recently acquired by Indonesia's Go-Jek. On the other hand, Globe President and CEO Ernest Cu reflects on how venture capital has become a vital part of Globe Telecom's future. "Globe is animating its digital transformation via a corporate culture that is more entrepreneurial, more customer focused, and executing with speed and precision. We are engineering Globe to be more than a telco; it is now a platform upon which our business partners can grow, and individual consumers can depend on to provide access to the best digital lifestyle options. Corporate venture capital through Kickstart Ventures has been an important part of bringing more startup partnerships to Globe. We're excited to work with Ayala Corporation to support the Group-wide digital transformation," he said. Earlier, AC announced the creation of ACTIVE Fund which leverages the breadth of the Ayala conglomerate - Ayala Corporation and affiliates Globe Telecom, BPI, Ayala Land, AC Industrials, Manila Water, AC Energy, and AC Infrastructure, which are also leaders in their respective fields. "We offer more firepower, greater access, and the potential for partnerships across multiple industries through this one fund. It is simpler for potential investees to navigate, and more collaborative for ourselves to operate," said Ayala Corporation CFO Jose Teodoro Limcaoco. Ayala Corporation Chairman Jaime Augusto Zobel de Ayala indicated the role he wants AC to play with the new business landscape, "The Group continues to thrive and grow, and our business units are serving the needs of more Filipinos than ever before. At the same time, we are well aware that new technologies and business models are disrupting established industries globally: the pace of innovation is astounding. We are determined that Ayala Corporation will play a role in the transformation of industries -- not as a bystander, but as an innovation catalyst." The fund also builds on the optimism around the Philippines and Southeast Asia: a recent report co-authored by Google and Temasek predicts that the SEA region's digital economy will triple to reach US$240 billion by 2025; and the International Monetary Fund's World Economic Outlook predicts that Philippine GDP per capita will breach US$4,000 for the first time in 2022, improving discretionary spend at both corporate and consumer levels, and opening opportunities for further investments in infrastructure, services, and products. In view of global, regional, and national trends, Ayala is being well-positioned with digital capabilities across all its businesses as the Philippines and Southeast Asia economies grow. ABOUT KICKSTART VENTURES Kickstart is the Philippines' most active Corporate Venture Capital fund investing in Pre-A to Series C digital startups globally. A wholly-owned subsidiary of leading Philippine telco Globe Telecom, Kickstart puts big company resources -- capital, facilities, market access, and expertise -- behind startups so they achieve scale and profitability sooner. For more information, visit kickstart.ph. Follow us on Twitter: @kickstartPH or email [email protected]. ABOUT GLOBE TELECOM Globe Telecom is a leading full service telecommunications company in the Philippines, serving the needs of consumers and businesses across an entire suite of products and services including mobile, fixed, broadband, data connections, internet and managed services. Its principals are Ayala Corporation and Singtel who are acknowledged industry leaders in the country and in the region. For more information, visit www.globe.com.ph. Follow us on Twitter: http://twitter.com/talk2Globe and Facebook: http://facebook.com/GlobePH ABOUT AYALA CORPORATION Ayala Corporation is one of the largest and most diversified business groups in the Philippines, with business interests in real estate, banking, telecommunications, water, power, industrial technologies, infrastructure, healthcare, and education. Its social commitment arm, Ayala Foundation, has programs that focus on education, youth leadership, sustainable livelihood, and the promotion of arts and culture. With headquarters in Makati City and operations mainly in the Philippines, it continues to grow its regional and global footprint, serving millions of customers across all market segments. SOURCE Globe Telecom, Inc. Related Links https://www.globe.com.ph PHILADELPHIA, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- LBC Small Cap Management, L.P. ("LBC Small Cap"), an affiliate of LBC Credit Partners, today announced the closing of its first fund, LBC Small Cap SBIC, L.P., at $139 million. Don Rice, Partner at LBC Small Cap, said, "We appreciate the strong interest and support we received from our investors. LBC Small Cap will continue to focus on senior, unitranche, and mezzanine debt and equity investments from $4 million to $14 million to support strong management teams and the growth of lower middle market companies across the United States." Separately, LBC Small Cap announced the addition of Kyle Peters to the investment team as a Vice President. He will be responsible for executing new transactions as well as managing existing portfolio investments. He has significant experience working with management teams and executing middle-market transactions including senior debt, structured equity, minority equity and control equity investments in a variety of situations. About LBC Small Cap LBC Small Cap is focused on originating, executing and managing senior secured, unitranche, junior debt, structured equity and equity co-investments in U.S.-based lower middle market companies with EBITDA between $2 - $5 million. The LBC Small Cap team looks to deploy between $4 million and $14 million per transaction to support funded sponsors, independent sponsors, and family-owned businesses across a broad array of industries. About LBC Credit Partners LBC Credit Partners provides middle market and small-cap financing solutions supporting sponsored and non-sponsored transactions throughout the U.S. across a broad range of industries. With over $3 billion in capital commitments, we have provided in excess of $5.8 billion to over 216 issuers throughout our 14-year history.* LBC is headquartered in the Philadelphia area and has offices in Chicago, Los Angeles and New York. To learn more, visit www.lbccredit.com. *Information as of December 31, 2018. MEDIA CONTACT: Lisa Rubano-Volansky Tel 724-979-4293 Email: [email protected] SOURCE LBC Credit Partners Related Links http://www.lbccredit.com BOSTON, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Liberty Mutual Group Inc. today announced that it has commenced a cash tender offer to purchase any and all of its Series A Junior Subordinated Notes on the terms and subject to the conditions described in its Offer to Purchase and related Letter of Transmittal dated today. The offer will expire at 11:59 p.m., New York City time, on June 6, 2019, unless extended or earlier terminated. Holders tendering their notes at or prior to the early tender time (5:00 p.m., New York City time, on May 22, 2019, subject to extension) will be eligible to receive an early tender payment as part of their tender offer consideration. The following table sets forth information regarding the offer: Consideration per $1,000 principal amount of Notes Title of Notes CUSIP Numbers/ ISINs Scheduled Maturity Date Principal Amount Outstanding (millions) Late Tender Offer Consideration(1) Early Tender Payment(1) Full Tender Offer Consideration(1)(2) Series A Junior Subordinated Notes 53079EAN4/ US53079EAN40/ U52932AJ6/ USU52932AJ63 March 15, 2037 $700 $1,190 $50 $1,240 (1) Per $1,000 principal amount of notes validly tendered and accepted for purchase. (2) Includes the early tender payment. Tenders of the notes may be withdrawn at any time on or prior to 5:00 p.m., New York City time, on May 22, 2019, subject to extension, but not after such time (except in certain limited circumstances where additional withdrawal rights are required by law). Liberty Mutual may, but is not obligated to, elect to have an early settlement in respect of the offer. If Liberty Mutual elects to have an early settlement, settlement for the notes validly tendered at or prior to the early tender time and accepted for purchase is expected to be on June 4, 2019, subject to extension. The final settlement date for all notes accepted for purchase but not previously settled, if any, is expected to be June 7, 2019, subject to extension. Holders tendering their notes at or prior to the early tender time will be eligible to receive the full tender offer consideration, which includes the early tender payment set forth in the table above. Holders that validly tender their notes after the early tender time and at or prior to the expiration of the offer will not be eligible to receive the early tender payment and will only be eligible to receive the late tender offer consideration set forth in the table above. In addition to the full tender offer consideration or the late tender offer consideration, as applicable, holders whose notes are accepted for purchase by Liberty Mutual will receive accrued and unpaid interest from, and including, the last interest payment date on those notes to, but not including, the applicable settlement date, in each case rounded to the nearest cent. Consummation of the offer is subject to a number of conditions, including a financing condition requiring Liberty Mutual to have raised net proceeds, through one or more debt financing transactions, in an amount sufficient to purchase all notes validly tendered and accepted for purchase by Liberty Mutual, pay any accrued and unpaid interest on those notes and pay all fees and expenses in connection with the offer on the applicable settlement date. The complete terms and conditions of the offer are specified in the Offer to Purchase and related Letter of Transmittal. The full details of the offer, including complete instructions on how to tender the notes, are included in the Offer to Purchase and related Letter of Transmittal. Holders are urged to read these documents, including materials incorporated by reference therein, carefully before making any decision with respect to the offer. Liberty Mutual has retained Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC and J.P. Morgan Securities LLC to act as lead dealer managers for the offer and HSBC Securities (USA) Inc. to act as a co-dealer manager for the offer. Questions regarding terms and conditions of the offer should be directed to Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC at (800) 820-1653 (toll free) or (212) 538-2147 (collect) or J.P. Morgan Securities LLC at (866) 834-4666 (toll free) or (212) 834-8553 (collect). Global Bondholder Services Corporation will act as the Tender Agent and the Information Agent for the offer. Questions or requests for assistance related to the offer or for additional copies of the Offer to Purchase and related Letter of Transmittal may be directed to Global Bondholder Services Corporation at (866) 470-3800 (toll free), (212) 430-3774 (collect) or [email protected]. You may also contact your broker, dealer, commercial bank, trust company or other nominee for assistance concerning the offer. This press release does not constitute an offer to purchase any securities or a solicitation of an offer to sell any securities. The offer is being made only pursuant to the Offer to Purchase and related Letter of Transmittal and only to such persons and in such jurisdictions as is permitted under applicable law. For additional information contact: Edward Pena Director, Investor Relations Liberty Mutual Group 857-224-6655 [email protected] Richard Angevine Public Relations Liberty Mutual Group 617-574-6638 [email protected] SOURCE Liberty Mutual Insurance Related Links http://www.libertymutual.com WOODCLIFF LAKE, N.J., May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Eisai Inc. presented the latest clinical results on FYCOMPA (perampanel) CIII, at the 2019 American Academy of Neurology Annual Meeting in Philadelphia, including analyses highlighting the health and economic benefits of FYCOMPA. Twenty-one scientific abstracts were presented by both Eisai and independent investigators, underscoring a collective commitment to advancing research in epilepsy care across the age spectrum. "At Eisai, we are working to develop solutions, including medications and technology, with the ultimate goal of helping epilepsy patients achieve seizure freedom," said Lynn Kramer, MD, Chief Clinical Officer and Chief Medical Officer, Neurology Business Group, Eisai Inc. "The FYCOMPA data we've presented at AAN provides insights that we hope will help improve patient care and shows Eisai's commitment to continuing research that supports the epilepsy community in this mission." Key findings show that: Patients treated with perampanel had a significantly greater reduction in all-cause hospitalizations compared to those treated with lacosamide, (25.3% vs 30.3%; p=0.0010; respectively). A similar result was seen for epilepsy-related hospitalizations (a reduction of 19.6% vs. 22.6%; p=0.0376, perampanel and lacosamide, respectively). The risk of all-cause inpatient hospitalizations decreased in Medicaid patients with epilepsy who were treated with perampanel for one year (38% pre-perampanel vs 30% post-perampanel; risk ratio of 0.79 [0.69-0.90]). A similar result was seen for epilepsy-related hospitalizations (32% pre-perampanel vs 25% post-perampanel; risk ratio of 0.78 [0.67-0.91]). In patients with uncontrolled epilepsy, treatment with a long half-life AED was associated with a significantly lower risk of hospitalization than those treated with a short half-life AED (in both unadjusted [0.81, 95% CI: 0.73, 0.89; p<0.001] and adjusted relative risk of hospitalization [0.84, 95% CI: 0.76, 0.93; p=0.0007]). "Uncontrolled epilepsy has been associated with higher hospitalization rates, longer hospital stays and more frequent emergency room visits, resulting in greater morbidity and higher health care costs for patients," said Manoj Malhotra, MD, Vice President, Head of Medical Affairs at Eisai. "This hospitalization data suggests that starting FYCOMPA can be a benefit for patients who are looking for a treatment regimen that requires less frequent dosing." In September 2018, FYCOMPA was approved for monotherapy and adjunctive use in pediatric patients 4 years and older for the treatment of POS with or without secondarily generalized seizures. FYCOMPA was first approved in 2012 for adjunctive use in partial-onset seizures (POS) in patients 12 years and older. In 2015, it was approved as adjunctive therapy for PGTC seizures in patients with epilepsy 12 years and older. To date, FYCOMPA is approved in 55 countries and has been used to treat more than 200,000 patients worldwide across all indications. Key data presented include: Some of these data include post-hoc exploratory or retrospective analyses. Please see limitations below. Poster presentation number: 5-022 Tuesday, May 7, 2019, 5:30-6:30 p.m. Inpatient Hospitalization Risk in Patients with Epilepsy Before and After Perampanel Treatment Edward Faught, MD, Xuan Li, MS, Jiyoon Choi, PharmD, Manoj Malhotra, MD, Russell L. Knoth, PhD Summary: In a retrospective study, a nationally representative medical and pharmacy claims database was used to identify 1,771 patients who had filled a perampanel prescription between July 2014 and June 2016. Patients were selected if they were 4-11 years old with any partial-onset (focal) seizures (POS), or 12 years with any POS or any primary generalized tonicclonic seizures (GTCS), had continuous observations for the one-year period prior to and following this date. Clinical outcome variables were the one-year all-cause and epilepsy-related relative risk of inpatient hospitalization following perampanel initiation. Compared to the pre-index period, the post-perampanel period was associated with a significantly lower risk of inpatient hospitalization. The one-year all-cause inpatient hospitalization risk ratio was 0.76 (0.71-0.82), with a 36.2% hospitalization risk during the pre-period compared to 29.5% risk in the one-year follow-up period. Similarly, the one-year epilepsy-related inpatient hospitalization risk ratio was 0.72 (0.66-0.79), with 30.8% during the pre-index period, compared to 23.9% during the follow-up period. The Symphony Health database is an administrative claims database and may contain errors or omissions in codes for procedures, diagnoses, or dispensing. Impact of perampanel use on emergency room visits could not be examined, as these were not identified separately in the database and may be included under outpatient or inpatient visits. Pre-perampanel period Post-perampanel period All-cause Inpatient hospitalization rate (Risk ratio=0.76, 0.71-0.82) 36.2% 29.5% Epilepsy related hospitalization rate (Risk Ratio=0.72, 0.66-0.79) 30.8% 23.9% Poster presentation number: 5-014 Thursday, May 9, 2019, 5:30-6:30 p.m. Inpatient Hospitalization Risk in Medicaid Patients with Epilepsy Before and After Perampanel Treatment Debanjana Chatterjee, PhD, Xuan Li, MS, Manoj Malhotra, MD, Jiyoon Choi, PharmD Summary: For this analysis, a nationally representative medical and pharmacy claims database was used to identify 614 Medicaid patients who filled a perampanel prescription between July 2014 to June 2016. Patients were selected if they were 4-11 years old with any partial-onset (focal) seizures (POS), or 12 years with any POS or any primary generalized tonicclonic seizures (GTCS), had continuous observations for the one-year period prior to and following this date. Outcome variables were the one-year all-cause and epilepsy-related relative risk of inpatient hospitalization following perampanel initiation. Compared to the pre-index period, the post-perampanel period was associated with a significantly lower risk of inpatient hospitalization. The one-year all-cause inpatient hospitalization risk ratio was 0.79 (0.69-0.90), with 38.3% during the pre-period compared to 30.3% in the one-year follow-up period. Similarly, the one-year epilepsy-related inpatient hospitalization risk ratio was 0.78 (0.67-0.91), with 32.2% hospitalization risk during the pre-index period, compared to 25.2% risk during the follow-up period. The Symphony Health database is an administrative claims database and may contain errors or omissions in codes for procedures, diagnoses, or dispensing. Impact of perampanel use on emergency room visits could not be examined, as these were not identified separately in the database and may be included under outpatient or inpatient visits. Pre-perampanel period Post-perampanel period All-cause Inpatient hospitalization rate (Risk ratio=0.79, 0.69-0.90) 38.3% 30.3% Epilepsy related hospitalization rate (Risk ratio=0.78, 0.67-0.91) 32.2% 25.2% Poster presentation number: 5-018 Tuesday, May 7, 2019, 5:30-6:30 p.m. Inpatient Hospitalizations Rates in Patients Diagnosed with Epilepsy and Treated with Perampanel or Lacosamide Edward Faught, MD, Xuan Li, MS, Jiyoon Choi, PharmD, MBA, Manoj Malhotra, MD, Russell L. Knoth, PhD Summary: The retrospective analysis of claims data included 1,717 patients (at least 12 years or older) in each cohort who were treated with perampanel or lacosamide, another antiepileptic drug (AED), (for a total of 3,434 patients) and if they had at least two diagnoses of epilepsy or non-febrile convulsions. All-cause and epilepsy-related hospitalization rates were observed for one year following the start of treatment. Patients treated with perampanel had a significantly greater reduction in all-cause hospitalizations compared to those treated with lacosamide, (25.3% vs 30.3%; p=0.0010; respectively). A similar result was seen for epilepsy-related hospitalizations, a reduction of 19.6% vs 22.6%; p=0.0376, perampanel and lacosamide, respectively. Among those who had any hospitalization in the baseline period, patients treated with perampanel had a 59.9% reduction in all-cause hospitalizations vs. a 48.6% reduction for those treated with lacosamide (p<0.05). A similar result was seen for epilepsy-related hospitalizations, a reduction of 65% vs 58.9% (p<0.05), respectively. The Symphony Health database is an administrative claims database and may contain errors or omissions in codes for procedures, diagnoses, or dispensing. Because of the limitations of claims data, it was not known if patients were taking the approved dosage of perampanel, if all patients had partial-onset seizures or were receiving perampanel as adjunctive therapy for primary generalized tonic-clonic seizures. Poster presentation number: 5-002 Tuesday, May 7, 2019, 5:30-6:30 p.m. Risk of Hospitalization in Patients with Uncontrolled Epilepsy Treated with a Long Versus Short Half-Life Adjunctive Antiepileptic Medication Joyce Cramer, BS, Eunice Chang, PhD, Jessie Yan, PhD, Russell L Knoth, PhD, Contessa Fincher, PhD, Manoj Malhotra, MD, Jiyoon Choi, PharmD Summary: A retrospective, longitudinal cohort study using the Symphony Health Solution (SHS) Patient Integrated Dataverse to identify 4,984 patients aged 12 years and diagnosed with epilepsy between 8/1/2012 to 7/31/2017. Once identified, patients were stratified into one of two groups based on the index AED half-life. Following stratification, 2,279 were treated with a long half-life (LHL) AED (>20 hours) and 2,705 with a short half-life (SHL) AED (<20 hours). In the one-year follow-up, unadjusted relative risk of hospitalization was lower in the long half-life group vs the short half-life group (0.81, 95% CI: 0.73, 0.89; p<0.001). After adjusting for group differences, the relative risk of hospitalization for the long half-life group was significantly lower than that of the short half-life group (0.84, 95% CI: 0.76, 0.93]; p=0.0007). The SHS data set only includes inpatient data from 30% of hospitals in the U.S. Patients who were serviced by the hospitals included in the SHS data set could not be differentiated from those with missing data from hospitals outside of the SHS data set to perform the analysis. In conclusion, in patients with uncontrolled epilepsy who were initiated on an adjunctive AED, the choice of an LHL vs SHL AED was associated with a significantly lower risk of hospitalization and the benefits of selecting an LHL AED as adjunctive therapy should be considered for appropriate patients with uncontrolled epilepsy. The observed reduction in utilization would likely reduce cost and improve the economic burden associated with this chronic disease. Limitations These results should be interpreted cautiously. Potential confounders, including changes in background AEDs and the potential association between treatment duration and different tolerability, could have influenced study results. Because of the limitations of claims data, it was not known if patients were taking the approved dosage of perampanel, if all patients had partial-onset seizures or were receiving perampanel as adjunctive therapy for primary generalized tonic-clonic seizures to be consistent with perampanel's approved use. About Epilepsy Epilepsy is a medical condition that produces seizures affecting a variety of mental and physical functions. Epilepsy is one of the most common neurological disorders, which affects about 3.4 million people in the United States, including 470,000 children. Children with uncontrolled seizures are at greater risk for sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP), which is relatively uncommon in childhood, but the risk increases if epilepsy persists into adulthood. Partial-onset seizures are the most common type of seizure seen in people with epilepsy, accounting for 60 percent of all seizures. Convulsive seizures account for up to 25 percent of all epilepsy, with primary generalized tonic-clonic seizures being one of the most common and severe forms of seizures. Missed medication doses are the number one cause of breakthrough seizures, which can cause significant injury to patients. People who experience breakthrough seizures have an increased risk of fractures or head injuries, emergency room (ER) visits, and hospitalization, as well as an associated increase in healthcare costs. About FYCOMPA FYCOMPA is a prescription medicine used in people with epilepsy aged 4 and older alone or with other medicines to treat partial-onset seizures with or without secondarily generalized seizures, and with other medicines to treat primary generalized tonic-clonic seizures for people with epilepsy aged 12 and older. FYCOMPA, a unique oral medication, is a selective, non-competitive AMPA (alpha-amino-3-hydroxy-5- methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid) receptor antagonist. The precise mechanism by which FYCOMPA exerts its antiepileptic effects in humans is unknown. In a pharmacokinetic study, it has been demonstrated that because of its long half-life, a missed dose of FYCOMPA does not significantly impact plasma levels. FYCOMPA is supplied as 2 mg, 4 mg, 6 mg, 8 mg, 10 mg and 12 mg film-coated tablets, and as a 0.5 mg/mL oral suspension formulation. FYCOMPA has been designated by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration as a federally-controlled substance (CIII). Please visit www.FYCOMPA.com to learn more about the treatment. About Eisai Eisai is a leading global research and development-based pharmaceutical company headquartered in Japan, with approximately 10,000 employees worldwide. We define our corporate mission as "giving first thought to patients and their families and to increasing the benefits health care provides," which we call our human health care (hhc) philosophy. We strive to realize our hhc philosophy by delivering innovative products in therapeutic areas with high unmet medical needs, including Oncology and Neurology. In the spirit of hhc, we take that commitment even further by applying our scientific expertise, clinical capabilities and patient insights to discover and develop innovative solutions that help address society's toughest unmet needs, including neglected tropical diseases and the Sustainable Development Goals. For more information about Eisai, please visit www.eisai.com (for global), us.eisai.com (for U.S.) or www.eisai.co.uk (for U.K.), and connect with us on Twitter (U.S. and global) and LinkedIn (for U.S.). INDICATION FYCOMPA (perampanel) is indicated in patients with epilepsy aged 4 years and older for partial-onset seizures (POS) with or without secondarily generalized seizures and adjunctive therapy for patients aged 12 years and older for primary generalized tonic-clonic (PGTC) seizures. IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION BOXED WARNING: SERIOUS PSYCHIATRIC AND BEHAVIORAL REACTIONS Serious or life-threatening psychiatric and behavioral adverse reactions including aggression, hostility, irritability, anger, and homicidal ideation and threats have been reported in patients taking FYCOMPA These reactions occurred in patients with and without prior psychiatric history, prior aggressive behavior, or concomitant use of medications associated with hostility and aggression Advise patients and caregivers to contact a healthcare provider immediately if any of these reactions or changes in mood, behavior, or personality that are not typical for the patient are observed while taking FYCOMPA or after discontinuing FYCOMPA Closely monitor patients particularly during the titration period and at higher doses FYCOMPA should be reduced if these symptoms occur and should be discontinued immediately if symptoms are severe or are worsening SERIOUS PSYCHIATRIC AND BEHAVIORAL REACTIONS In the partial-onset seizures clinical trials, hostility- and aggression-related adverse reactions occurred in 12% and 20% of patients randomized to receive FYCOMPA at doses of 8 mg and 12 mg per day, respectively, compared to 6% of patients in the placebo group. These effects were dose-related and generally appeared within the first 6 weeks of treatment, although new events continued to be observed through more than 37 weeks. These effects in FYCOMPA-treated patients led to dose reduction, interruption, and discontinuation more frequently than placebo-treated patients. Homicidal ideation and/or threat have also been reported postmarketing in patients treated with FYCOMPA. The combination of alcohol and FYCOMPA significantly worsened mood and increased anger. Patients taking FYCOMPA should avoid the use of alcohol. Patients, their caregivers, and families should be informed that FYCOMPA may increase the risk of psychiatric events. Patients should be monitored during treatment and for at least one month after the last dose of FYCOMPA, and especially when taking higher doses and during the initial few weeks of drug therapy (titration period) or at other times of dose increases. Similar serious psychiatric and behavioral events were observed in the primary generalized tonic-clonic (PGTC) seizure clinical trial. SUICIDAL BEHAVIOR AND IDEATION Antiepileptic drugs (AEDs), including FYCOMPA, increase the risk of suicidal thoughts or behavior in patients. Anyone considering prescribing FYCOMPA or any other AED must balance the risk of suicidal thoughts or behavior with the risk of untreated illness. Epilepsy and many other illnesses for which AEDs are prescribed are themselves associated with morbidity and mortality and an increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior. Patients, their caregivers, and families should be informed of the risk and advised to monitor and immediately report the emergence or worsening of depression, suicidal thoughts or behavior, thoughts about self-harm and/or any unusual changes in mood or behavior. Should suicidal thoughts and behavior emerge during treatment, consider whether the emergence of these symptoms in any given patient may be related to the illness being treated. DIZZINESS AND GAIT DISTURBANCE FYCOMPA caused dose-related increases in events related to dizziness and disturbance in gait or coordination. Dizziness and vertigo were reported in 35% and 47% of patients in the partial-onset seizure trials randomized to receive FYCOMPA at doses of 8 mg and 12 mg per day, respectively, compared to 10% of placebo-treated patients. Gait disturbance related events were reported in 12% and 16% of patients in the partial-onset seizure clinical trials randomized to receive FYCOMPA at doses of 8 mg and 12 mg per day, respectively, compared to 2% of placebo-treated patients. These adverse reactions occurred mostly during the titration phase. These adverse reactions were also observed in the PGTC seizure clinical trial. SOMNOLENCE AND FATIGUE FYCOMPA caused dose-dependent increases in somnolence and fatigue-related events. Somnolence was reported in 16% and 18% of patients in the partial-onset seizure trials randomized to receive FYCOMPA at doses of 8 mg and 12 mg per day, respectively, compared to 7% of placebo-treated patients. Fatigue-related events were reported in 12% and 15% of patients in the partial-onset seizure trials randomized to receive FYCOMPA at doses of 8 mg and 12 mg per day, respectively, compared to 5% of placebo-treated patients. These adverse reactions occurred mostly during the titration phase. These adverse reactions were also observed in the PGTC seizure clinical trial. Patients should be advised against engaging in hazardous activities requiring mental alertness, such as operating motor vehicles or dangerous machinery, until the effect of FYCOMPA is known. FALLS Falls were reported in 5% and 10% of patients in the partial-onset seizure clinical trials randomized to receive FYCOMPA at doses of 8 mg and 12 mg per day, respectively, compared to 3% of placebo-treated patients. DRUG REACTION WITH EOSINOPHILIA AND SYSTEMIC SYMPTOMS (DRESS) DRESS, also known as multiorgan hypersensitivity, has been reported in patients taking AEDs, including FYCOMPA. DRESS may be fatal or life-threatening. DRESS typically, although not exclusively, presents with fever, rash, lymphadenopathy, and/or facial swelling, in association with other organ system involvement. If signs or symptoms are present, immediately evaluate the patient and discontinue FYCOMPA if an alternative etiology for signs or symptoms cannot be established. WITHDRAWAL OF AEDs A gradual withdrawal is generally recommended with AEDs to minimize the potential of increased seizure frequency, but if withdrawal is a response to adverse events, prompt withdrawal can be considered. MOST COMMON ADVERSE REACTIONS The most common adverse reactions in patients aged 12 years and older receiving FYCOMPA (5% and 1% higher than placebo) include dizziness, somnolence, fatigue, irritability, falls, nausea, weight gain, vertigo, ataxia, headache, vomiting, contusion, abdominal pain, and anxiety. Adverse reactions in patients aged 4 to <12 years were generally similar to patients aged 12 years and older. DRUG INTERACTIONS FYCOMPA may decrease the efficacy of contraceptives containing levonorgestrel. Plasma levels of perampanel were decreased when administered with known moderate and strong CYP3A4 inducers, including, carbamazepine, phenytoin, or oxcarbazepine. Multiple dosing of FYCOMPA 12 mg per day enhanced the effects of alcohol on vigilance and alertness, and increased levels of anger, confusion, and depression. These effects may also be seen when FYCOMPA is used in combination with other CNS depressants. PREGNANCY AND LACTATION Physicians are advised to recommend that pregnant patients taking FYCOMPA enroll in the North American Antiepileptic Drug (NAAED) Pregnancy Registry. Caution should be exercised when FYCOMPA is administered to pregnant or nursing women as there are no adequate data on the developmental risk associated with use in pregnant women, and no data on the presence of perampanel in human milk, the effects on the breastfed child, or the effects of the drug on milk production. HEPATIC AND RENAL IMPAIRMENT Use in patients with severe hepatic or severe renal impairment is not recommended. Dosage adjustments are recommended in patients with mild or moderate hepatic impairment. Use with caution in patients with moderate renal impairment. DRUG ABUSE AND DEPENDENCE FYCOMPA is a Schedule III controlled substance and has the potential to be abused and lead to drug dependence and withdrawal symptoms including anxiety, nervousness, irritability, fatigue, asthenia, mood swings, and insomnia. Please see Prescribing Information for FYCOMPA. Contact: Media Inquiries James Merse Eisai Inc. 201-746-2979 [email protected] SOURCE Eisai Inc. Related Links http://www.eisai.com LONDON, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Kromtech, developer of MacKeeper , security, optimization, and protection software for Macs and technical support service provider -- with 1.4 million active users -- officially announces a new strategy and direction, powered by its new international senior team: CEO Alun Baker (Oracle, Merrill, Accenture), CMO Dominic Neil-Dwyer (SONY, BBC), and CFO Geoff Baldock (Travelex, Safetykleen). The senior team has been appointed to accelerate Mackeeper's ongoing transformation to create a completely disruptive consumer solution for digital protection and privacy space. The company is putting the consumer at the focal point of its strategy including a critical emphasis on customer satisfaction and user experience with the newly appointed Scarlet Jeffers (Apple, EY Seren), Director of CX (Customer Experience). A major strategic initiative and unique competitive differentiator for the company is the integration of its world-class technical service group of over 800 support experts (ZoomSupport) into a premium solution offer. The company is making a significant investment in groundbreaking software releases over the next 12 months. It's already launched MacKeeper with anti-tracking and VPN features. The plan is for further new feature releases in the next month, including online ID theft protection as well as ad and tracker blocking. Historically, the company has suffered from criticism over the sector's use of third-party affiliates, who engaged in aggressive sales techniques to promote the sale of the software. Kromtech has proactively eliminated these distribution channels and is now considered to be one of the most compliant software providers in this space. Kromtech's 2019 product and service roadmap will bring a completely fresh approach to help consumers easily solve the problems and complexities of digital privacy and protection. This will be done by combining security, privacy, and anti-fraud technologies, with best-in-class technical assistance -- 24/7 access to a team of 800+ smart, empathetic tech experts ready to help when things go wrong. Alun Baker , a highly respected technology executive, brings more than 20 years' experience in growing and transforming technology companies. As Kromtech CEO, Baker is pivoting the company to revolutionize and disrupt an industry currently characterized by complex, technology-based messaging that drives fear and confusion into the consumer market. "Kromtech is a highly energized and dynamic company with a new, clear purpose. We are committed to disrupting the traditional consumer cybersecurity market that has seen cybercrime escalate to epidemic proportions, costing the world over $600B. We're all about putting the consumer first in their constant battle against the invasion of privacy, identity theft, and intrusion across all their devices that result from not only their online activity but also from corporate loss, misuse, and abuse of their personal data. Digital protection and privacy today need multi-faceted, personalized care, and we're committed to serve this need. Watch this space over the coming year."-- said Mr. Baker. The company's next product release is planned for the end of Q2 2019. About Kromtech Kromtech, the maker of Mackeeper, is the synergy of over 800+ passionate leaders, developers, security experts, and Apple Certified Support Professionals with a single mission to help people take back control of their online security and privacy. The company aims to provide a unique easy to use personalized solution (software and service) to help Mac and mobile users protect themselves by minimizing their vulnerabilities and advising them, so they can create a worry-free online environment. https://mackeeper.com/about/ SOURCE Kromtech Related Links https://mackeeper.com/new/about/ LONDON, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Leading European design brand MADE.COM has launched the 4th collection of its TalentLAB initiative with its first ever independent curator. The collection, which features 18 independently designed products, has been curated by the expert design eye of Michelle Ogundehin. The designers come from eight countries, including France, Spain and Denmark, with seven talented designers based in the United Kingdom. Internationally renowned as an authority on interiors, trends and style, Michelle Ogundehin is a writer, consultant and TV presenter and the award-winning former Editor-in-Chief of ELLE Decoration UK. Michelle's curation spans from upholstery to accessories and Michelle has deliberately underpinned her selection with touches of wood and brass, which she believes have an intrinsic sense of truth, honesty and authenticity. TalentLAB enables up and coming designers and enthusiasts to submit designs for the chance to see it come to life. Michelle has curated a collection of the 18 best submitted designs and now customers can support the ones they want to see produced by pledging a 5 refundable deposit on their favourites. The most popular will be produced and sold on MADE.COM. For designers, this is a chance to gain access to MADE's vast network of producers across the globe, the Europe-wide catalogue of customers and to the technology which enables distribution to MADE's thirteen commercial markets. All successful designers who have their work put into production and sold on MADE.COM are paid in the exact same way as current MADE designers, via royalties on their product. Michelle Ogundehin comments: "TalentLAB gives anyone who has a good, innovative idea the chance to be a designer. When I pulled together the colour palette, I wanted a sense of timelessness, with a top note of fashionability. Pieces that capture the attention for being different, as well as great forever buys that work now, tomorrow and onwards. Michelle has also offered up her top tips for up and coming designers in a new video available to view here: https://youtu.be/Lcj_oXcFND0 TalentLAB Collection Four Blush Accent Chair, Vintage Pink Designed by Frederik Eksteen, South Africa Bias Teapot and Mug Set, Teal Designed by Anna Sichelska, Germany Enso Flower Holder, Brass Designed by Corinna Goehlich, Germany Fold Wall Hanger, Black Designed by Phan Thao Dang, Germany Knotto Knitted Cushion, Pink Designed by Gosia Rusek, UK La Latina Shelves, Oak and Blue Designed by Osabel Cambiella, Spain Ox Chair, Blue Designed by Jon Christie, UK Schema Mirror, Marble Effect and Brass Designed by Studio Lav, UK Stak Planters, Graded Pink Designed by Natasha Duda, UK Stick Desk Lamp, Brass Designed by Samy Rio, France Clamshell Pendant, Black Designed by Marc Sicard, France Funen Stool, Dark Stain Oak Designed by Christian Hansen, Denmark Timeless Wall Clock, Black Designed by Ivana Blaskova, Netherlands Slump Accent Chair, Grey Designed by Liam Sholicar, UK Vases Mes Petites, Brass Designed by Thomas Glorian, France Up Up Wall Lamp, Black Designed by Florian Brillet, UK Zzino Set of 2 Coffee Tables, Black Marble and Mango Wood Designed by Mihajlo Juric, Serbia Schema Mirror, Tinted Glass Designed by Studio Lav, UK Images available to download HERE For more information or further comments, please contact [email protected] Notes to Editors ABOUT TalentLAB MADE.COM launched TalentLAB in 2017 as the first crowd-sourced and crowd-funded design platform. The initiative invites designers from around the world to submit a design and when a design receives sufficient customer pledges, MADE.COM will commit to producing and selling the product. MADE.COM is committed to helping talented designers get a foothold in the industry. The platform will launch 200 new designers each year. TalentLAB is a new way for designers to launch their careers, and for customers to support up and coming designers. TalentLAB is a place to discover new talent and unique products that can't be found anywhere else. About MADE.COM MADE.COM believes everyone should have access to great design and is dedicated to making that happen. MADE.COM has revolutionised the buying model, has a sizeable in-house design team and partners with amazing designers,including Supermundane, Darkroom London's Rhonda Drakeford , and Tom Pigeon . MADE.COM works closely with manufacturers and craftsmen across the world to offer consumers unique furniture and homeware products at affordable prices. , and . MADE.COM works closely with manufacturers and craftsmen across the world to offer consumers unique furniture and homeware products at affordable prices. The product range is expanding, having grown by some 40% since the start of 2016 and now totals some 4,500 SKUs. Ranges are continually refreshed, with an average of two new collections launched every week. From its roots in furniture, MADE.COM has recently successfully entered the categories of Lifestyle, Leisure and Gifting. The newest addition being pet beds and accessories designed by the in-house design team, MADE Studio. MADE.COM operates a small network of innovative, unconventional showrooms as an extension of its website, combining real and virtual products and helping to inform and excite customers before making their purchases online. MADE.COM now operates seven showrooms, including its newly extended flagship in Soho, London . . Today, MADE.COM employs more than 500 staff across its operations in the UK, Continental Europe and Asia and is led by Philippe Chainieux, formerly CEO of Meetic, a publicly traded company in France and a division of IAC. SOURCE Made.com Related Links www.made.com PALM BEACH, Florida, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Nearly 7% of Americans use CBD, according to Cowen & Co. analysts. In fact, according to Cowen's January 2019 consumer survey of 2,500 adults, 6.9% of respondents are using CBD. "This initial response piqued our interest considerably, as it was much higher than we would have suspected," they said, as quoted by the Press Herald. By 2025, Cowen & Co. analysts believe CBD use will grow to 10% of Americans, which implies a potential $16 billion market opportunity. Along the way, retailers have been quick to wake up to that very opportunity. For example, Neiman Marcus will sell CBD. Simon Property Group is partnering with Green Growth Brands. CVS will now carry CBD products across the U.S. The Vitamin Shoppe just announced it will sell CBD products. In addition, Abercrombie & Fitch just partnered with Green Growth Brands to sell CBD body care products. Some of the top companies in the industry include The Yield Growth Corp. (CSE:BOSS) (OTC:BOSQF), Curaleaf Holdings Inc. (CSE:CURA) (OTC:CURLF), The Green Organic Dutchman (TSX:TGOD) (OTC:TGODF) and Charlotte's Web Holdings Inc. (CSE:CWEB) (OTC:CBWHF). The Yield Growth Corp. (CSE:BOSS)(OTCQB:BOSQF) BREAKING NEWS: The Yield Growth Corp and its Urban Juve skincare and wellness subsidiary already established deeper and wider channels to market than expected within months of launching earlier this year. In fact, to date 109 retailer partnerships are confirmed and consumer sales are tracking well for products that are coming to define a new hemp-powered movement in skincare. At the same time, the company announces the launch of its essential channel to market: a new B2B and B2C website at urbanjuve.com. "The retail market for unisex, Ayurveda, hemp skin care and wellness products is not only on trend, but it also reflects a health paradigm," says Penny Green Yield Growth President and CEO. "At the heart of all of our proprietary recipes is the root of cannabis sativa, a plant which is central to Ayurvedic tradition thanks to its well-established anti-inflammatory characteristics."For more information and additional news for BOSS, please visit: https://yieldgrowth.com/ Other cannabis-related developments from around the markets include: Curaleaf Holdings Inc. (CSE:CURA) (OTCQX:CURLF) just announced it signed an agreement to acquire Cura Partners, Inc., which owns the Select brand, in an all-stock transaction valued at $948.8 million. The acquisition includes Select's manufacturing, processing, distribution, marketing and retailing operations and all adult-use cannabis products marketed under the Select brand name, including all intellectual property. Select is the most well-known cannabis wholesale brand in the country with its products sold in more than 900 retailers. "The transformational acquisition of Cura and the Select brand is another step in our journey to create the most accessible cannabis brands in the U.S.," said Joseph Lusardi, CEO of Curaleaf. "The combination of Curaleaf and Select is a perfect fit. With our industry leading capacity, expansive retail distribution network and Select's impressive sales and marketing capabilities, we intend to meaningfully accelerate our topline growth trajectory with the addition of the Select Oil product range. In addition, we intend to create significant operational synergies from the integration of Select's wholesale business with our vertically-integrated cultivating, processing and retail platform. We look forward to welcoming the talented Select team who will bring superior brand marketing expertise and a culture of innovation in technology and product development." The Green Organic Dutchman (TSX:TGOD) (OTCQX:TGODF) is developing a distribution hub for beverage and edible products for Canada and abroad. "We believe that the beverage and edible market will be the largest single segment of the cannabis market. Cannabis, as the base ingredient, makes these products possible. The medicinal and recreational market for CBD and THC will only increase over time and starting with an organic input is the most important aspect to developing these higher margin products," notes TGOD President Csaba Reider. Charlotte's Web Holdings Inc. (CSE:CWEB) (OTCQX:CWBHF) manufactures and markets CBD wellness products, including capsules, topicals, and gels in more than 3,000 retail locations throughout the U.S. In May 2019, the company even expanded its canine-focused pet products line, launching hemp-extract infused chews, oils, and topical balms. According to the Brightfield Group, the CBD pet market alone is forecast to grow at a CAGR of 151% between 2018 and 2022 to $1.16 billion. DISCLAIMER: FN Media Group LLC (FNM), which owns and operates Financialnewsmedia.com and MarketNewsUpdates.com, is a third party publisher and news dissemination service provider, which disseminates electronic information through multiple online media channels. FNM is NOT affiliated in any manner with any company mentioned herein. 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Contact Information: Media Contact email: [email protected] +1(561)325-8757 SOURCE Financialnewsmedia.com WASHINGTON, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- American Humane, the country's first national humane organization, is pleased to announce that voting is now open in the sixth annual American Humane Hero Veterinarian and Hero Veterinary Nurse Awards, sponsored by Zoetis Petcare (a U.S. business unit of Zoetis). Following the review of more than 250 nominations from animal lovers across the country, a blue-ribbon judging panel of veterinary professionals and animal care experts has selected 10 of the country's top veterinarians and veterinary nurses as finalists. Pet owners and animal lovers alike are invited to visit www.herovetawards.org every day between now and August 8 at 12 pm Pacific Time to vote for 2019's top American Hero Veterinarian and American Hero Veterinary Nurse. The winners will be flown to Los Angeles to be honored on October 5 as part of the ninth annual American Humane Hero Dog Awards, sponsored by the Lois Pope LIFE Foundation and Zoetis Petcare. The Hero Dog Awards will air nationwide as a two-hour special on Hallmark Channel this fall. "These 10 finalists are inspiring examples of the veterinary community," said Tara Bidgood, DVM, PhD, DACVCP, executive director, Zoetis Petcare Veterinary Professional Services. "The American Humane Hero Veterinarian and Hero Veterinary Nurse Awards are Zoetis Petcare's way of helping to put a spotlight on their vital work. Congratulations to these extraordinary finalists and all our veterinary professionals who work so hard every day to protect and give better, healthier lives to the beloved animal members of our families." "Animals are often heroes to us, and we need to honor and recognize those who are heroes to them," said Robin Ganzert, Ph.D., president and CEO of American Humane. "These dedicated professionals work behind the scenes to keep our best friends happy and healthy, and for that we thank them." To read each of the finalists' stories, as told by the people who nominated them, and to vote daily for one of the five finalists in each of the American Hero Veterinarian and American Hero Veterinary Nurse categories, please visit www.herovetawards.org. Meet the 10 heroic veterinarian and veterinary nurse finalists! Here are the nomination essays written by their supporters: American Hero Veterinarian finalists Dr. Terry Morris (Durham, NC) Dr. Terry Morris, MS, DVM, PhD is my nominee and deserves the title of American Hero Veterinarian for many reasons, however the key reason I am nominating her today is because she is the founder and driving force behind the nonprofit, Vets to Vets United (https://www.vetstovetsunited.org), which pairs service members with rescue dogs and helps to train, rehabilitate, support and develop teams that not only help this initial pairing, but also serve the greater community. Dr. Morris is a veterinarian and the Gold Star daughter of a U.S Airman killed during the Cuban Missile Crisis. Her passion, drive, incredible skills and community focus are creating a ripple effect not only in Durham, North Carolina but one that expands past this boundary in multiple ways. Dr. Morris has led initiatives for mental health support for veterans, and supports local rescue dogs through this nonprofit she founded (see link above). I have been involved in supporting Vets to Vets United, and have seen Dr. Morris in action, training new dogs, pairing veterans with these pups, providing outreach to families facing the deployment of service members, providing therapy to wounded soldiers the listendless. Her impact...indescribable. Her passion...unstoppable. Choosing Dr. Morris as the American Hero Veterinarian is not only a wise choice, it also would be an amazing choice and one that would honor her, the veterans, the shelter pups, and more. Thank you for your consideration! Dr. Matt O'Connor (Chicago, IL) Dr. Matt O' Connor, senior staff veterinarian at Chicago's Shedd Aquarium, oversees the care of 32,000 animals at the aquarium, which includes everything from a 700-pound California sea lion to a less-than-10-gram juvenile Amazon dart frog. Through his commitment to providing animals with the best possible care, he works closely with a variety of teams from aquarists and trainers to researchers and students. Dr. Matt also works tirelessly on a wide spectrum of research and fieldwork a key pillar of the responsibilities of Shedd's role in innovating and furthering animal care knowledge and processes at the aquarium. This past year, Dr. Matt flew to Madagascar with the Turtle Survival Alliance to provide onsite medical care and relocation assistance for nearly 10,000 critically endangered radiated tortoises. He also joined a collaborative head-start program with a local forest preserve district to benefit a state endangered species, welcoming 23 Blanding's turtle hatchlings for a year until they are big enough to be released back into the wild at a protected site. Prior to his time at Shedd, he completed conservation medicine projects involving health assessments of the amphibians in Georgia, mortality rates of red-eyed tree frogs in Costa Rica and radio tracking of endangered populations of indigo snakes and hellbenders. He also helped in the recovery and release of a critically endangered turtle species in the Philippines when thousands of the turtles once thought to be extinct were found kept by smugglers. Dr. Jamie Peyton (Davis, CA) Dr. Jamie Peyton is a Critical Care Veterinarian and the Chief of Integrative Medicine at the UC Davis Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital. Her innovative approaches to providing pain relief and wound healing have benefitted companion animals and wildlife alike, in many instances, literally saving their lives. She focuses on a whole-patient approach to pain by incorporating treatments such as acupuncture, chiropractic, laser, TENS, and underwater treadmill therapies to help rehabilitate animals following surgery or those suffering from chronic painful conditions such as osteoarthritis. In 2018, Dr. Peyton helped save the lives of three bears and a mountain lion that suffered severe burns in the California wildfires by applying tilapia skins to their badly burned paws. These animals survived and were successfully released back into the wild. She went on to treat companion animals and pets severely injured in the 2018 Carr wildfire. My German Shepherd, a three-legged dog with severe congenital joint issues, has been receiving treatment under Dr. Peyton's guidance twice a week since April 2016. Without this care, he would not be able to maintain a high quality of life. There are countless other companion animals benefiting from this service. Dr. Peyton also maintains a private rescue/sanctuary at her ranch in Northern California, special needs animals a home and providing the physical and emotional care that they require. Few people's dedication and innovative techniques impact the lives of those in need (domestic animals, their owners, and wildlife) as Dr. Peyton does. Dr. Bryan Waldridge (Versailles, KY) Dr. Bryan Waldridge is the American Humane Hero Veterinarian of the year in the eyes of the technicians who have had the privilege to work with him. Dr. Waldridge graduated from Auburn University. He has worked at Rood and Riddle Equine Hospital and Kentucky Equine Research, where he participated in equine nutrition research, development of new products, and withdrawal times of commonly used equine drugs. He was a treating veterinarian at the Atlanta Olympic Games and a regulatory veterinarian at the 2015 Breeders' Cup. In 2016, he joined Park Equine Hospital at Woodford where he shares his wisdom, knowledge, and experience with his coworkers. He has dedication and drive like no other, as a volunteer veterinarian at Old Friends Thoroughbred Farm for retired racehorses to caring for many rescued horses that survived and were rehomed. One such case was an emaciated older Tennessee Walking Horse mare that had to be admitted into her stall upon a rescue glide because she was unable to stand and walk. After weeks of constant care, she went on to a local equine adoption center with a chance for a better life. Through his involvement with this horse, he was able to meet and work with a Kentucky state representative to help change equine cruelty laws. He has been there for animal owners in times of need, whether they are saying goodbye to their horse, llama, or goat, and offers a shoulder to cry on. He is a mentor for youth in 4-H. He is the definition of a hero veterinarian. Dr. Jacob Rehard (Montrose, CO) I have worked with Dr. Jake for almost 10 years in our rural mountain community. He is a kind, quiet soul with a sense of humor appreciated by all who know him. In a time when student debts are soaring and rural veterinary medicine is underserved, he has committed his life to serving the ranchers and pet owners in our community. Less than two years ago, he opened Black Canyon Veterinary Clinic, and every year since, this amazing team he built has won the prestigious distinction of "Best Veterinary Clinic in the Valley." I am honored to work alongside this man who grew his business knowledge in his spare time in order to manage in an honest and responsible manner, and who believes that providing emergency care 24/7 to our community is important enough to give up 50 percent of his personal time, and who also has served as the local shelter vet for several years providing help to low-cost clinics. Jake also plans to start an emergency clinic in our small town to provide relief to the other veterinarians who are suffering the same work burden. At BCVC, where we fight for a healthy culture of positivity, peace and healing, good work/family balance, I have seen him become a man who stands up for what is right and good, starting with the workplace he has built. American Hero Veterinary Nurse finalists Julie Antonellis (Leesburg, VA) Julie Antonellis, LVT, VTS(ECC) is a role model in our field. She has a passion for emergency critical care and shares this passion with her team and our community. In her decades of work as an LVT and Veterinary Technician Specialist in Emergency Critical Care, Julie is an advocate for her patients and skillfully cares for those who are critically ill. She has served as our technician and assistant supervisor for over 10 years. Julie has provided many continuing education events to our referring community and is often requested by name. In 2018 she was appointed as the Northern Virginia Regional Director of Virginia Association of LVTs. Julie was also appointed by ACVECCT as a mentor for those seeking to obtain their Veterinary Technician Specialist credential in Emergency Critical Care. Later in 2018 she joined Penn Foster as an adjunct instructor for their veterinary technician program. Her passion continues as she coordinates our 11 student technicians' learning experience by organizing study groups, online article review, and observation hours with other veterinary specialties. She recently submitted a Critical Care Boot Camp proposal to immerse primary care veterinarian employees in critical care nursing training, the goal being to create opportunity to save lives outside of the ER/CC setting by educating our DVM care teams. We are very proud of Julie and her accomplishments. She is making a mark on our industry and we are fortunate to have her as one of our own. Angel Martin (Lawrenceville, GA) We became part of the Russell Ridge Animal Hospital family through unfortunate circumstances but now consider the events leading up to our introduction to be a true blessing. As a new rescue organization with no budget, when we encountered a senior bloodhound with an advanced mammary tumor at animal control with her card already flipped (kill listed), saving her seemed impossible. We reached out to many places asking for assistance, including our regular service providers, but were turned away. In what became an extraordinary moment in our organization's history, Angel Martin with Russell Ridge Animal Hospital, where we had no previous relationship, agreed to fund the surgery through their CARE Fund (Companion Animal Rescue & Emergency Fund) just based on photographs. Today, this bloodhound, who had been hours away from death, is healthy and has found her forever home. Some months later, another of our hard-luck cases was accepted by the CARE Fund and had survived a bullet wound to his head. Angel is an integral part of an amazing clinic staff that prides itself on community involvement. Some of Angel's other exceptional contributions include organizing an annual 5K event to grow contributions for the CARE Fund, hosting a pet pictures with Santa event and maintaining the clinic's active social media presence. Angel is also an integral part of the hospital's AAHA accreditation, 4.9 out of a 5.0- star rating on Google reviews and multi-year "Best of Gwinnett" award wins. Kayla Meyer-Pope (Travelers Rest, SC) Kayla has been an incredible vet tech and animal hero for years. She spearheaded the successful effort to raise money to cover the costs of a severely injured dog hit by a car on the highway and brought to CPAH for its medical issues. She raised enough money and more to cover Cleo's surgery and rehabilitation. I ultimately adopted Cleo. When another of my dogs ate a pencil that perforated her intestine, I was away and couldn't be with my dog during this traumatic experience. The heartbreaking decision was made to euthanize, and Kayla sat with my Minnie speaking to her and loving on her as she passed. Kayla knew it devastated me to both lose Minnie and not be there for her. Kayla stood in my stead and helped Minnie pass covered in love. Not only this, the next week Kayla comes to my home one evening with a framed picture of my precious pup and her paw print in clay. These are just two instances of Kayla going above and beyond. And I'm just one person who takes their pet to Cleveland Park, many others have similar stories. Kayla deserves recognition for her selfless dedication to animals and their healthcare. Amy Edwards (Roswell, GA) Amy is an exceptional veterinary nurse and helps to maintain a high standard of care regarding animal dentistry and surgery. She spends her spare time traveling and teaching others in her field veterinary dentistry. She has helped to bring a massive amount of awareness regarding the importance of including veterinary nurses in dentistry training and also takes on students wishing to become credentialed in veterinary dentistry. Amy has the right amount of patience and kindness to deal with difficult clients and patients. Working with her is an honor and I have learned so much from her. I think it's the least she deserves for all of her dedication to veterinary dentistry! She had a double bypass at 40 years old last year due to a heart attack and has come back better than ever. She has remained strong and steady throughout life's problems and I would love to see her hard work and determination get rewarded. Thank you for your time and consideration. Jacqueline Geary (Westbury, NY) Jackie, is our ICU/ER Supervisor at VREC Westbury and has three young children at home. Jackie is a supervisor who still works on the floor with her staff. She works overnights and weekends in solidarity with her staff not because she has to, but so they have a leader in the building in those busy days and tough hours. Jackie not only is an LVT, but she is working toward her VTS, always looking to advance her skills in her profession. She has helped many of our assistants who wanted to take the next step to becoming technicians by helping them enroll in Penn Foster and then mentoring them once they were in the program, setting up study sessions at her house or staying late at the hospital. Everyone who has been enrolled in Penn Foster and utilized Jackie's study groups have all passed and are now LVTs. Just as she is a champion for her staff, she is a champion for our patients and clients. Her passion for and love of animals is why she is in this profession. The level of caring shown to each and every one of our patients and their families far exceeds the call of her position. Jackie is a dedicated, compassionate and empathetic technician. About American Humane American Humane is the country's first national humane organization, founded in 1877. For more information, please visit www.americanhumane.org. About Zoetis Zoetis is the leading animal health company, dedicated to supporting its customers and their businesses. Building on more than 65 years of experience in animal health, Zoetis discovers, develops, manufactures and commercializes medicines, vaccines and diagnostic products, which are complemented by biodevices, genetic tests and a range of services. Zoetis serves veterinarians, livestock producers and people who raise and care for farm and companion animals with sales of its products in more than 100 countries. In 2018, the company generated annual revenue of $5.8 billion with approximately 10,000 employees. For more information, visit www.zoetis.com. SOURCE American Humane Related Links http://www.americanhumane.org CARMEL, Ind., May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Mortgage banking firm Merchants Capital has arranged nearly $50 million in total financing for three assisted living communities in Ohio: The Ashford at Mt. Washington, The Ashford on Broad and The Ashford on Sturbridge. Merchants Capital secured the bridge loans on behalf of Wallick Communities, which develops affordable assisted living and memory care communities. The bridge financing allows the communities to continue leasing and reach the required time beyond construction completion in order to be eligible to be insured by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA). "Our team closed these loans in less than 70 days from the day of engagement," said Michael R. Dury, president of Merchants Capital and the portfolio's leading originator. "We were able to simplify the process because of our unique ability to execute the bridge loan through our parent company, Merchants Bank. During the bridge loan application process, we were able to advise them on structuring the takeout financing via FHA." The first community, The Ashford at Mt. Washington, received $13 million in financing over 24 months. The 108-unit community is located in Cincinnati, Ohio. The Ashford on Broad received $16 million in bridge financing over 36 months. Comprised of 131 units, the community is located in Columbus, Ohio. The third and final community is The Ashford on Sturbridge, which received $20 million in financing over 42 months. The 124-unit community opened in early 2019 and is located in Hilliard, Ohio, a middle-class suburb of Columbus. All three communities are designed to serve working- and middle-class seniors, offering rents at 1530% below those in similar communities. In addition, by using Ohio's Medicaid Waiver program, residents are allowed to stay once their financial resources have been exhausted. "As baby boomers age and the costs of senior health care continue to rise, the need for affordable, well-maintained communities like these are becoming more and more critical," said Tom Feusse, CEO of Wallick Communities. "Partnering with Merchants Capital on these projects was vital to our work and fulfilling our mission of Opening Doors to Homes, Opportunities and Hope to seniors across Ohio." Merchants Capital is a leading multifamily lender offering customized loan products for independent living, assisted living, memory care and skilled nursing projects. A variety of loan products are available to accommodate construction, rehabilitation, acquisition and refinancing of healthcare properties throughout the country. To learn more about Merchants Capital and its services, visit www.merchantscapital.com. Find Merchants Capital on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. ABOUT MERCHANTS CAPITAL Merchants Capital, formerly PR Mortgage & Investments (and RICHMAC Funding), is a multifamily, affordable, and healthcare lender offering a direct way to access fixed rate, long-term, non-recourse financing via its bank, Merchants Bank, all with a single point of contact. Merchants Capital strives to provide the best origination and service of its loan products with exceptional customer service, accuracy, creativity, speed and conformance to regulations. To learn more about Merchants Capital, visit www.merchantscapital.com. FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS This press release contains forward-looking statements which reflect current views of Merchants Bancorp and its subsidiary, Merchants Capital Corp., with respect to, among other things, future events and our financial performance. These statements are often, but not always, made through the use of words or phrases such as "may," "might," "should," "could," "predict," "potential," "believe," "expect," "continue," "will," "anticipate," "seek," "estimate," "intend," "plan," "projection," "goal," "target," "outlook," "aim," "would," "annualized" and "outlook," or the negative version of those words or other comparable words or phrases of a future or forward-looking nature. These forward-looking statements are not historical facts, and are based on current expectations, estimates and projections about our industry, management's beliefs and certain assumptions made by management, many of which, by their nature, are inherently uncertain and beyond our control. Accordingly, we caution you that any such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to risks, assumptions, estimates and uncertainties that are difficult to predict. Although we believe that the expectations reflected in these forward-looking statements are reasonable as of the date made, actual results may prove to be materially different from the results expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. A number of important factors could cause our actual results to differ materially from those indicated in these forward-looking statements, including those factors identified in "Risk Factors" or "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" in Merchants Bancorp's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 and in its subsequent filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Any forward-looking statements presented herein are made only as of the date of this press release, and we do not undertake any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements to reflect changes in assumptions, the occurrence of unanticipated events, or otherwise. SOURCE Merchants Capital ARLINGTON, Va., May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- MILLIE recently contributed to the National Association of REALTORS (NAR) Military Relocation Professional certification course. MILLIE will be providing a webinar and an article to the certification course. The course will contain material that provides an overview of the military community, tips and resources to share with military families, and information and content on how to serve military clientele. "We feel that by collaborating with the National Association of REALTORS we can better fulfill our end mission of 'Bringing Military Families Home.' At MILLIE we aim to provide resources and services to support the PCS journeys of military families. We're thrilled to educate agents to help them better serve their military clients," said MILLIE Chief Executive Officer Ken Robbins. A webinar is underway, and the REALTORS training curriculum MILLIE contributed to is scheduled to release in May 2019. About MILLIE: MILLIE is an online community and digital marketplace that connects members of the military and their families with specialized knowledge and trusted resource providers to alleviate the stress of PCSing. MILLIE's Installation Guides, network of veteran and military spouse real estate agents, and Scouts are the go-to providers that seamlessly transition military families move after move throughout their service to our country. www.gomillie.com About the National Association of REALTORS: The National Association of REALTORS is America's largest trade association, representing 1.3 million members, including NAR's institutes, societies, and councils, involved in all aspects of the residential and commercial real estate industries. Their membership is composed of residential and commercial brokers, salespeople, property managers, appraisers, counselors, and others engaged in the real estate industry. Members belong to one or more of approximately 1,200 local associations/boards and 54 state and territory associations of REALTORS. www.nar.realtor Media Contact Information MILLIE Kellie Artis, [email protected] (571) 389-8588 MRP Certification - [email protected], (888) 648-8321 SOURCE MILLIE Related Links http://www.gomillie.com MARIETTA, Ga., May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- MiMedx Group, Inc. (OTC PINK: MDXG) ("MiMedx" or "the Company"), an industry leader in advanced wound care and an emerging therapeutic biologics company, today announced that its Board of Directors has appointed Timothy R. Wright as Chief Executive Officer, effective May 13, 2019. Mr. Wright succeeds David Coles, who has served as Interim Chief Executive Officer since July 2018. Mr. Wright is a proven executive and healthcare industry veteran with more than 30 years of experience in the pharmaceutical, biotech and medical devices industries. He brings to MiMedx a track record of results-oriented leadership and business growth. Charles R. Evans, Chairman of the MiMedx Board of Directors, stated, "Tim has been instrumental in building, transforming and strategically positioning organizations, driving them for growth and profitability across many diverse and highly competitive markets. He has extensive experience in identifying and capturing market opportunities; mobilizing multidisciplinary teams to achieve improved financial results; driving products from conception through commercialization; securing regulatory and reimbursement approvals; and negotiating complex transactions, partnerships and ventures that propel organizational growth and market share expansion. MiMedx conducted an extensive CEO search process with the assistance of an executive search firm, through which the Board interviewed a number of highly qualified candidates. I am confident Tim is the right person to lead MiMedx forward on a trajectory of ethical and sustained growth." Mr. Wright commented, "I am honored and excited to join MiMedx and lead the Company forward into the next stage of its evolution. I have diligently reviewed the strength of the scientific foundation of the MiMedx business, the clinical and economic efficacy of the Company's products, the soundness of the Company's strategic plans, and the current and future market opportunities available to MiMedx. I believe strongly in the Company's potential to positively impact the lives of patients, and look forward to working with the Board and management team to guide MiMedx so that it can reach its full potential while creating long-term shareholder value." Mr. Evans added, "On behalf of the Board, I want to thank David Coles for his service and dedication to MiMedx as Interim CEO. The last ten months have been a challenging time for the Company, and we greatly appreciate the leadership David has provided during this critical period." About Timothy R. Wright From July 2017 to September 2018, Mr. Wright served as President & Chief Executive Officer of M2Gen Corp., a pioneer in cancer and health informatics. Prior to M2Gen, Mr. Wright served as Executive Vice President, Mergers and Acquisitions, Strategy and Innovation at Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. Before Teva, he was the founding partner of The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Drug Development Institute, and in parallel, Mr. Wright served as Chairman, Interim CEO and a director of Curaxis Pharmaceutical Corporation. Before that, he was President of the Imaging Solutions and Pharmaceutical Products Sector of Covidien where he drove strong year-over-year revenue growth, gross margin expansion and double-digit return on invested capital, resolved significant manufacturing compliance deficiencies across more than a dozen global sites, and rebuilt the R&D organization. Preceding Covidien, Mr. Wright was Interim CEO, President and a director of AAI Pharma and navigated the company's sale to privately-held Xanodyne Pharmaceuticals Inc. Earlier in his career, Mr. Wright held numerous sales, strategy, management and executive positions with increasing global responsibility. While with Elan Bio-Pharmaceuticals, Mr. Wright last served as President, Global Operations. Mr. Wright started his pharmaceutical career at American Critical Care, a division of American Hospital Supply Corporation that was purchased by E.I. DuPont to form DuPont Pharmaceuticals. Following the joint venture between DuPont Pharma and Merck & Company, Mr. Wright was named Head of Marketing for DuPont Merck, and progressed to several executive roles outside the United States. Mr. Wright serves as the Lead Director of Agenus, Inc., an immune oncology company. He also serves as Chairperson of The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center Drug Development Institute and Director of The Ohio State Innovation Foundation, and he sits on The Ohio State University College of Pharmacy Dean's Corporate Council. Over his career, Mr. Wright has served on boards of directors in North America, Europe and Asia. Mr. Wright earned a Bachelor's of Science in Marketing from The Ohio State University. About MiMedx MiMedx is an industry leader in advanced wound care and an emerging therapeutic biologics company developing and distributing human placental tissue allografts with patent-protected processes for multiple sectors of healthcare. The Company processes the human placental tissue utilizing its proprietary PURION process methodology, among other processes, to produce allografts by employing aseptic processing techniques in addition to terminal sterilization. MiMedx has supplied over 1.5 million allografts to date. For additional information, please visit www.mimedx.com. Contacts: Investors: Hilary Dixon Corporate & Investor Communications 770.651.9383 [email protected] Media: Joele Frank, Wilkinson Brimmer Katcher Andy Brimmer / Jed Repko / Annabelle Rinehart 212.355.4449 SOURCE MiMedx Group, Inc. Related Links http://www.mimedx.com The Corporation has acquired a block of 6.5 million shares of Unigold (TSXV: UGD), a gold exploration company, which operates in the Dominican Republic . . Unigold's main asset is the Neita concession, which hosts a deposit of over 2 million ounces of gold (inferred resource of 39.5 million tonnes at 1.59 g/t Au). The other major shareholders of Unigold are Osisko Gold Royalties Ltd. (14.7%) and Evanachan Limited (7.3%), a company owned by Robert R. McEwen . . As consideration, Monarch issued 3.25 million shares of its share capital, which will be escrowed for 24 months. MONTREAL, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ - MONARCH GOLD CORPORATION ("Monarch" or the "Corporation") (TSX: MQR) (OTCMKTS: MRQRF) (FRANKFURT: MR7) is pleased to announce that it has acquired from an investor a block of 6.5 million shares (the "Shares") of Unigold Inc. ("Unigold") (TSXV: UGD) at an agreed price of $0.115 per Share for a total amount evaluated at $747,500 payable by the issuance of 3.25 million shares of the Corporation at an agreed price of $0.23 per common share of the Corporation. The shares issued by Monarch will be escrowed for a 24-month period. The transaction did not take place on a stock exchange or market. Prior to the transaction, the Corporation did not own or control any Unigold Share. Immediately after the transaction, the Corporation owns or controls 6.5 million shares, which represent 14.23% of the issued and outstanding shares of Unigold. The Dominican Republic is known to be a mining-friendly jurisdiction. It hosts several mines, including Pueblo Viejo, a Barrick-Newmont Goldcorp joint venture with a resource of over 10 million ounces of gold and production of almost 600,000 ounces of gold per year. Over the past five years, Unigold has spent more than $20 million on exploration, including more than 50,000 metres of drilling that identified an inferred resource of over 2 million ounces of gold, as well as high-grade mineralized zones within the largest zones of disseminated mineralization. The NI 43-101 resource estimates prepared in 2013 and 2015 indicate that given the known extent of mineralization on the property, as demonstrated by the other exploration targets, the Neita concession has the potential to host further deposits or lenses of gold and multi-element (e.g., silver, copper) mineralization. There is a high probability that the resource can be increased, both in terms of quantity and quality (see 2013 NI 43-101 technical report and 2015 NI 43-101 technical report). Neita Inferred Mineral Resource Estimate 2013(1)/2015(2) 2013 Mineral Resource Estimate Deposit Tonnes (x 1,000) Au (g/t) Au oz (x 1,000) Ratio de decapage Open Pit Oxide (0.32 g/t cutoff) Extension Main Connector - 2,448 1,108 - 0.92 1.12 - 72 40 - 1.3 1.3 Subtotal 3,556 0.98 112 1.3 Sulphide (0.56 g/t cutoff) Extension Main Connector 24,223 5,003 980 1.59 1.16 1.08 1,241 186 34 7.6 1.3 1.3 Subtotal 30,206 1.50 1,461 6.4 Subtotal 33,762 1.45 1,573 5.8 Below Pit Sulphide (1.25 g/t cutoff) Extension Main Connector 4,977 704 50 2.42 2.21 2.49 387 50 4 Subtotal 5,731 2.39 441 TOTAL 2013 Estimate 39,493 1.59 2,014 2015 Mineral Resource Estimate Underground Sulphide 3.5 g/t cutoff 5,274 5.27 894 (Source: (1) NI 43-101 Technical report mineral resource estimate for the Candelones project, Neita concession, Dominican Republic, December 20, 2013, Micon International Limited; (2) NI 43-101 Technical report mineral resource estimate for the Candelones extension deposit, Candelones project, Neita concession, Dominican Republic, March 30, 2015, Micon International Limited) "This was an incredible opportunity for Monarch and a transaction that we could not pass up," said Jean-Marc Lacoste, President and Chief Executive Officer of Monarch. "Monarch has always been interested in acquiring undervalued assets with a view to developing their full value. With Unigold, we are acquiring a block of shares of a company with a resource of more than 2 million ounces of gold, at a fraction of the market price for such an asset, and with a strong shareholder base. In addition, this property has excellent high-grade exploration potential, as demonstrated by the 2015 resource estimate." "This transaction adds another major asset to our project portfolio, which includes our Wasamac flagship project, the Beaufor mine, our Croinor Gold, MacKenzie Break and Swanson advanced projects, our Camflo and Beacon mills, our shares in Chalice Gold Mines, Agnico Eagle Mines, Osisko Gold Royalties and Yamana Gold, and the joint venture with Probe Gold Mines. In the current gold market, we must be on the lookout for opportunities like Unigold to enhance the quality of our assets." Other than as indicated in the present press release, Monarch does not have any plans or future intentions regarding material changes of Unigold, including the changes listed in Item 5 of Form 62-103F1, which is available on SEDAR under the profile of Unigold. Under certain circumstances, including market conditions, Monarch may increase or decrease its beneficial ownership or control over Unigold's common shares or other securities through market transactions, private agreements or new issuances. A copy of the report filed under Regulation 62-104 as filed on SEDAR can be obtained under the Unigold SEDAR profile or by contacting Jean-Marc Lacoste at 1-888-994-4465. The technical and scientific content of this press release has been reviewed and approved by Marc-Andre Lavergne, P.Eng., the Corporation's qualified person under National Instrument 43-101. ABOUT MONARCH GOLD CORPORATION Monarch Gold Corporation (TSX: MQR) is an emerging gold mining company focused on pursuing growth through its large portfolio of high-quality projects in the Abitibi mining camp in Quebec, Canada. The Corporation currently owns close to 300 km of gold properties (see map), including the Wasamac deposit (measured and indicated resource of 2.6 million ounces of gold), the Beaufor Mine, the Croinor Gold (see video), McKenzie Break and Swanson advanced projects and the Camflo and Beacon mills, as well as other promising exploration projects. It also offers custom milling services out of its 1,600 tonne-per-day Camflo mill. Forward-Looking Statements The forward-looking statements in this press release involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause Monarch's actual results, performance and achievements to be materially different from the results, performance or achievements expressed or implied therein. Neither TSX nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release. SOURCE Monarch Gold Corporation Related Links http://www.monarquesgold.com/en/ DALLAS, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- MultiCam Germany, a leading European distributor of advanced CNC cutting solutions is set to exhibit at the FESPA Europe Global Print Expo in Munich, Germany on May 14-17, 2019. MultiCam Germany will be showcasing the all-new seen Celero 7153 Digital Cutter along with the APEX1R CNC Router. Both machines will be performing either routing or knife cutting demonstrations on a variety of different materials in MultiCam's stand B5-F59 located in the Messe Munich. MultiCam's APEX1R CNC Router is known as one of the most affordable, yet fully capable, servo driven CNC Routers on the market while the Celero line of Digital Cutters offers some of the fastest knife cutting speeds to date. "The Celero Line of Digital Cutters has been a real game-changer here in the USA and we look forward to taking the Celero 7 Series to its first European tradeshow. We expect the Celero to make a big impression with FESPA attendees as it offers some of the fastest knife cutting speeds in the industry, due to its integrated linear drives, at 198.20m/minute," says MultiCam's Director of Sales and Marketing, Philip Fassnacht. FESPA Europe attendees will have the opportunity to receive cut samples and consult with MultiCam's highly-trained sales and application team for general or application specific questions regarding MultiCam machinery. Free RSVP tickets to FESPA Europe 2019 are available, courtesy of MultiCam Germany, but require that attendees register here. About MultiCam Inc., For over 30 years, MultiCam has manufactured over 13,000 CNC Routers, Digital Cutters, Lasers, Plasmas, and Waterjet machines out of their headquarters located in Dallas/Fort Worth, Texas. Known for their ease-of-use, precision, and reliability for a wide range of applications, MultiCam's systems are utilized for various industries and manufacturing facilities around the world. MultiCam is supported by a global network of CNC experts which encompasses 60 Technology Centers worldwide with 20 of those Technology Centers located in North America. SOURCE MultiCam Inc. Related Links https://www.multicam.com WASHINGTON, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Representatives from the National Association of Realtors and various local Realtor Associations met with White House officials Wednesday afternoon to discuss industry support for the administration's Association Health Plan rule. This week's meeting comes on the heels of NAR's call for the Justice Department to defend the Department of Labor's regulatory authority to support AHPs. The Affordable Care Act brought regulatory changes, and some significant price increases, to the individual and small group insurance markets where self-employed professionals who typically lack access to more affordable, employer-provided coverage are forced to shop. As a result, Realtors have identified AHPs as an attractive alternative through which they can pursue quality health insurance coverage. Self-employed Realtors have a nationwide median individual gross income of $42,500, meaning many can only absorb modest prices increases before foregoing health insurance coverage altogether. "The National Association of Realtors is actively engaging with White House officials in order to ensure the Justice Department protects working owners' access to group health plan coverage under an AHP," said NAR President John Smaby, a second-generation Realtor and broker at Edina Realty at Edina, Minnesota. "Because this issue is central to the lives of so many NAR members, we're also pushing state governments to support policies that provide Realtors with the freedom to choose the health insurance plan they need." Christie DeSanctis represented NAR at Wednesday's meeting. DeSanctis is a Director of Federal Policy for the trade association and its senior health policy expert, having worked previously on AHP issues for House Education and Workforce Committee Chairman John Kline. She was joined by leaders from several local Realtor associations which have developed their own unique AHP programs. Angela Shields represented the Tennessee Realtors as its CEO; Association Executive Wendy DiVecchio spoke on behalf of the Greater Las Vegas Association of Realtors; CEO Teresa McKee represented the Nevada Realtors; and Shelia Dodson spoke on behalf of the Baldwin County, Alabama Realtor Association as its CEO. To date, over 3,000 Realtors and their families have found cost-effective health insurance solutions through these local AHP options. NAR recently created an updated map showing the state-by-state regulatory environment as it applies to working owners, which also links to a detailed chart outlining specific actions by individual states. "As independent contractors, Realtors have long struggled to find and secure affordable health insurance options," Smaby said after District Court of Columbia Judge John Bates struck down a DOL attempt to expand association health plans earlier this year. "The rule has been successful and is growing in many states, providing high quality, lower cost coverage alternatives to many of America's 1.3 million Realtors and their families. As these discussions progress in Washington, we will continue to fight for more affordable, quality health insurance options for all of our members." The National Association of Realtors is America's largest trade association, representing more than 1.3 million members involved in all aspects of the residential and commercial real estate industries. SOURCE National Association of Realtors TACOMA, Wash., May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Almost 600 Columbia Bank employee volunteers, friends and family members participated in the third annual Melanie Dressel Community Commitment Week, which honors the legacy of Columbia Bank's late Chief Executive Officer. Complementing several other established Columbia Bank community giving programs, a total of 597 volunteers collectively devoted 1,955 hours to 78 events throughout the Northwest to honor Melanie Dressel's legacy of community support. Their work spanned the final week of April. Ms. Dressel passed away in 2017. She was a committed philanthropist and abiding volunteer, and her legacy inspired the bank to establish this special event. Throughout the week-long commemoration, employees and community members from across the bank's three-state footprint, volunteered to help charitable activities and programs that positively influence the lives of people in Washington, Oregon and Idaho. This year, they spent the week volunteering for charities and nonprofits including Emergency Food Network, Priest River Ministries, Eugene Rescue Mission, Ballard Food Bank, Blessings Under the Bridge, and many more. "Melanie's unwavering commitment to the communities of the Northwest set a high standard for all of us," said Hadley Robbins, Columbia Bank's Chief Executive Officer. "She led by example and our fond memories of her hard work continue to inspire us to do more for our communities and neighbors. The great level of support for this year's event exemplifies this." In 2017 and 2018, hundreds of employees, family members and friends participated in dozens of different volunteer projects across Washington, Oregon and Idaho for the annual event. It started in 2017 as Melanie Dressel Community Commitment Day and grew into a weeklong effort in 2018. The Melanie Dressel Community Commitment Week provides Columbia Bank employees opportunities to volunteer with charities they believe in and want to help succeed. Once registered for selected charitable events, employees strive to deliver as much community impact as possible. The Week complements several other successful Columbia Bank annual campaigns, including the Warm Hearts Winter Drive, Relay for Life, and the American Heart Association Heart Walk. About Columbia Headquartered in Tacoma, Washington, Columbia Banking System, Inc. is the holding company of Columbia Bank, a Washington state-chartered full-service commercial bank with locations throughout Washington, Oregon and Idaho. In 2018, Columbia Bank received the Corporate Citizenship Award from the Puget Sound Business Journal, the National Association of Secretaries of State Medallion and was named a top lender in Oregon by the Small Business Administration. For the 12th consecutive year, the bank was named as one of Puget Sound Business Journal's "Washington's Best Workplaces," and for the 8th consecutive year Columbia has been ranked as one of the nation's best banks by Forbes. More information about Columbia can be found on its website at www.columbiabank.com. Investor Relations Contact: [email protected] (253) 305-1921 Media Contact: Financial Profiles, Inc. Marla Kertzman (209) 852-9027 SOURCE Columbia Bank Related Links https://www.columbiabank.com PORTLAND, Ore., May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- OnPoint Community Credit Union announced the finalists for its Educator of the Year award, and also named six teachers to the Circle of Excellence. The awards are part of the OnPoint Prize for Excellence in Education campaign. This is the 10th anniversary of the annual contest, which honors local educators who work to inspire enthusiasm and creativity in the classroom and have made an impact on students, their families and surrounding communities. The campaign has awarded nearly $300,000 in prizes to 236 local educators and schools. Founded in 1932 by 16 school teachers, OnPoint continues its commitment to strengthen local education by supporting students, schools and educators in a variety of ways. The OnPoint Prize for Excellence in Education is the cornerstone of OnPoint's work in education. On Tuesday, May 21, OnPoint will announce one K-8 teacher and one 9-12 teacher as Educators of the Year from the list of four finalists below. OnPoint will pay their mortgages for one full year and donate $2,500 to each of their schools. The remaining finalists (one K-8 teacher and one 9-12 teacher) will each receive $5,000 for themselves and $1,500 for their schools. Educator of the Year Finalists: K-8 Finalist Francesca Aultman 5 th Grade Gilbert Heights Elementary School | David Douglas School District | Portland, Oregon 5 Grade Gilbert Heights Elementary School | David Douglas School District | K-8 Finalist Nadia Boria 3 rd Grade Scouters Mountain Elementary | North Clackamas School District | Happy Valley, Oregon 3 Grade Scouters Mountain Elementary | School District | 9-12 Finalist Joe Minato AP Physics and Science Research Wilson High School | Portland Public Schools | Portland, Oregon AP Physics and Science Research | Public Schools | 9-12 Finalist Tori Sharpe English, AVID and ELL Skyview High School | Vancouver School District | Vancouver, Washington Circle of Excellence: Six additional teachers have been named to the Circle of Excellence. These educators will each receive a $1,500 cash prize and a $1000 donation to their school. Michelle Colbert Art Fir Ridge Campus Alternative School | David Douglas School District | Portland, Oregon Art Fir Ridge Campus Alternative School | David Douglas School District | Stephanie Fitzgerald 7 th and 8 th Grade Math Colton Middle School | Colton School District | Damascus , Oregon 7 and 8 Grade Math | Colton School District | , Brandon Ramey Health and PE Newberg High School | Newberg School District | Newberg, Oregon Health and PE | Newberg School District | Myron Ryan Metalworking and Manufacturing Franklin High School | Portland Public Schools | Portland, Oregon Metalworking and Manufacturing | Public Schools | Kellie Tichenor 1 st Grade West Tualatin View Elementary | Beaverton School District | Portland, Oregon 1 Grade West Tualatin View Elementary | School District | Greg Wognild Drama, Coding/Computer Science, Woodshop Sky View Middle School | Bend-La Pine School District | Bend, Oregon In addition to the Educators of the Year and Circle of Excellence, four schools were honored with the Community Builder Award, receiving $1,000 for a project of their choice. A fifth school, selected by community votes, received $2,000. The winning schools were announced on May 7. In total, the 2019 contest will award up to $85,000 to deserving public and private K-12 teachers and schools. Learn more about the campaign at www.onpointprize.com. ABOUT ONPOINT COMMUNITY CREDIT UNION OnPoint Community Credit Union is the largest credit union in Oregon, serving more than 367,000 members and with assets of $5.6 billion. Founded in 1932, OnPoint Community Credit Union's membership is available to anyone who lives or works in one of 13 Oregon (Benton, Clackamas, Columbia, Crook, Deschutes, Jefferson, Lane, Linn, Marion, Multnomah, Polk, Washington and Yamhill) and two Washington counties (Skamania and Clark) and their immediate family members. More information is available at www.onpointcu.com or 503-228-7077 or 800-527-3932. SOURCE OnPoint Community Credit Union Related Links http://www.onpointcu.com "After decades of working with other outdoor companies and 13 years of retirement and travel, I began to feel nostalgic," said Jim Thomsen, founder and first president of Wilderness Experience, Inc. "It's really exciting to think that a product we made 45 years ago and, which was loved by so many, is relevant today. I am inviting old and new friends to join our Kickstarter community to relaunch a favorite brand that brought pleasure to so many outdoor devotees." Wilderness Experience was founded originally as a guide service in southern California bringing urban children into the outdoors. To supplement this company, this veteran team of outdoor enthusiasts worked in a mountaineering store and started to make equipment that better addressed their backcountry equipment needs. After purchasing a sewing machine and coming up with several prototypes, they decided to start selling backpacks adorned with the extra embroidered labels from their guide company. Wilderness Experience went on to manufacture backpacks, sleeping bags, tents, luggage, apparel and Gore-Tex products. It was the first outdoor company to complete a public stock offering. Today's version of The Original Klettersack has the same performance attributes including: a narrow profile for excellent range of motion; a slanted bottom which shifts weight forward and allows movement downslope with less chance of the bottom catching; a zippered top pocket; a smooth nylon back with six inch wide foam padding for comfort and airflow; eleven accessory patches. At 28 liters it is the ideal volume for hiking, ski touring or climbing. Even though it is made from super durable 1000d Cordura, the simple design keeps the weight below most other packs in this size range. The Cordura nylon bottom weighs 22 oz. The leather bottom weighs 24 oz. "Really the seventies was when Wilderness Experience came into being and shot up the ladder, inventing all the new packs and tents," said John Long, writer and climbing historian. "Basically it went from us using old army/navy stuff in the early seventies to the late seventies where things are not really that different from what they are today." The Original Klettersack was a favorite of respected climbers including Alan Bard, John Bachar, Fred Beckey, Jim Bridwell, Jim Donini, Ned Gillette, Beverly Johnson, Ron Kauk, John Long, Galen Rowell, John Roskelley, Kim Schmitz and so many others. For information on the history of Wilderness Experience: http://bit.ly/wildx Or visit our facebook page: http://bit.ly/WildXfacebook The Original Klettersack and Wilderness Experience trademarks are owned by Icon Originals LLC, Jim Thomsen, President. SOURCE Wilderness Experience Related Links https://www.wildernessexperience.net/ NEW YORK and MIAMI, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- The Parkinson's Foundation announced the location of its signature professional education program course, Allied Team Training for Parkinson's, ATTP in Charleston, SC. The three-and-a-half-day interactive curriculum for healthcare professionals treating patients with Parkinson's disease (PD) is provided in partnership with The Medical University of South Carolina, a designated Parkinson's Foundation Center of Excellence, and in collaboration with the local Parkinson Association of the Carolinas. The Allied Team Training for Parkinson's course in Charleston, SC, will take place October 23-26, 2019. "As the only Parkinson's Foundation Center of Excellence in a state where about 43,000 people live with this disorder, we are very excited to host ATTP," said Vanessa Hinson, MD, PhD, Professor of Neurology and Director of the Movement Disorders Program at the Medical University of South Carolina. "It's a wonderful opportunity to extend the multidisciplinary expertise we've built in our own program and establish a network of certified PD providers across our state and beyond. The most important thing for us is that every PD patient in South Carolina can benefit from the depth of knowledge this program provides." Designed to increase knowledge about PD and build capacity for comprehensive interprofessional care in the treatment of the disease, ATTP helps medical professionals from diverse disciplines learn the best techniques in PD care through a dynamic team-based approach. The program currently targets physicians, physician assistants, nurses, nurse practitioners, occupational therapists, speech language therapists, physical therapists and social workers for training. The ATTP faculty consists of an interdisciplinary faculty of senior movement disorder specialists. Since 2002, ATTP has trained more than 2,000 health care professionals in the United States and Canada on best practices based on the latest research in Parkinson's disease care. In 2018 alone, over 200 health professionals were trained who went on to provide direct care to over 30,000 Parkinson's patients and 25,000 care partners. "Allied Team Training for Parkinson's (ATTP) is an excellent program for health care professionals treating patients with Parkinson's disease," said Ann Marie Obrikat, Executive Director of the Parkinson Association of the Carolinas. "What I especially like about this program is healthcare professionals will learn to deliver personalized and patient-centered care at the right time throughout the duration of the disease." The dynamic, interactive course features a combination of online courses and an intensive curriculum including CME/CEU credit for physicians, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, nurses and allied health professionals. The training includes interactive case presentations, care planning with people with Parkinson's and caregivers, discipline specific breakout sessions, interdisciplinary team development sessions, patient and caregiver panels and individual and team planning for linking back to the workplace. The Parkinson's Foundation will be hosting future ATTP trainings in the following locations through 2021: Massachusetts General Hospital and Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (Spring 2020) General Hospital and Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (Spring 2020) Struthers Parkinson's Center (Fall 2020) Center (Fall 2020) Oregon Health & Science University (Spring 2021) University of Kansas Medical Center (Fall 2021) ATTP is part of the Parkinson's Foundation professional educational offerings including Physical Therapy Faculty Program, The Edmond J. Safra Visiting Nurse Faculty Program, webinars and online courses. For more information, visit Parkinson.org/ProfessionalEducation. To learn more, or to view a full ATTP program agenda, visit Parkinson.org/ATTP. About the Parkinson's Foundation The Parkinson's Foundation makes life better for people with Parkinson's disease by improving care and advancing research toward a cure. In everything we do, we build on the energy, experience and passion of our global Parkinson's community. For more information, visit www.parkinson.org or call (800) 4PD-INFO (473-4636). About Parkinson's Disease Affecting nearly one million Americans and 10 million worldwide, Parkinson's disease is the second-most common neurodegenerative disease after Alzheimer's and is the 14th-leading cause of death in the United States. It is associated with a progressive loss of motor control (e.g., shaking or tremor at rest and lack of facial expression), as well as non-motor symptoms (e.g., depression and anxiety). There is no cure for Parkinson's and 60,000 new cases are diagnosed each year in the United States alone. SOURCE Parkinson's Foundation Related Links https://parkinson.org DUBLIN, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Philippines Facility Management Market Outlook to 2022 - By Soft and Hard Facility Management Services; By Single Services, Bundled Services and Integrated Services and By Sectors" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. Philippines Facility Management market is still relatively nascent in the country and is in its initial growth stage. Facility management market growth was supported by business surge of multinational companies, especially in the BPO industry, along with factors like improved healthcare and increasing building efficiency in some areas in the country. The Integrated Facility management penetration is low due to preference for single and bundled services by most end users, especially local companies. However, as the number of MNCs increase in the country, the demand IFM is also expected to increase. Future Outlook The future outlook of the industry is positive owing to the growing BPO industry in the Philippines which is expected to boost the demand for both soft and hard services. Increasing demand from multinational clients is likely to drive future demand for IFM services in Philippines with commercial office buildings and industrial plants being the future penetration sectors for IFM services. The growth in construction, tourism and healthcare industries in the country will increase the demand of FM services by these industries. A number of government plans such as the Build, Build, Build (BBB) Program to accelerate infrastructure spending and develop industries in the country, increase public spending on infrastructure projects at PHP 8 to 9 trillion from 2017 to 2022, the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN) to fund investments and the Philippine Health Agenda 2016-2022 to achieve successful health system strengthening including focus on local infrastructure that supports system wide capacity for health workforce development are expected to further augment the demand for soft and hard FM services in the future. Market Segmentation Soft services dominated the market of facility management in Philippines as compared to hard services in 2017. The development in sectors such as real estate, commercial and residential owing to Build, Build, Build program has amplified the demand for soft services in the country owing to rise in need for cleaning and security services. Hard services segment has low share as many organizations tend to contact the equipment OEM for servicing, in case equipment needs to be fixed, or other maintenance is required. Single services and bundles services contributed more to the FM market and compared to integrated facility management services. Single or bundled services are generally preferred by local businesses in the country. The local businesses do not yet perceive the value they can get from IFM. On the other hand, multinational clients in Philippines prefer IFM because it is more cost efficient. In 2017, Commercial sector contributed the highest revenue share to the overall facility management industry. FM companies have been providing soft and hard services to commercial complexes over the years and the growth in this sector has created large potential for FM companies. This was followed by the residential sector, healthcare sector, industrial sector and infrastructure in terms of revenue. The soft services facility management market has been further segmented by type of services. Cleaning services were the largest contributor to the soft services industry in 2017 followed by security and other soft services including pantry services, waste management, landscaping, courier services, reception services, mailroom and other services. Electromechanical services have dominated the hard services market in Philippines followed by operational and maintenance services and fire safety and security systems during 2017 in terms of revenue. Electromechanical services had the highest share as entities have to incur expenditure on building temperature control, air conditioning, electricity etc. Additionally, it is more expensive to fix equipments falling under this category at the time of maintenance, which makes its revenue share even higher. Increase in the construction projects have also resulted in elevated demand of the electromechanical services. Competitive Landscape The Philippines Facility Management market is highly concentrated. ISS Facility Services Phils. Inc. is the market leader and has the highest market share in the Facility Management market in Philippines on the basis of revenue in 2017. This was followed by JLL (Philippines) Inc., Sodexo (On-Site Services), Atalian Global Services, Centuary Property Management Inc., Santos Knight Frank and Mansion Maintenance Company. These market players compete in the FM market in Philippines on the basis of Price of services, quality and knowledge of services, track record and past history within the industry and sectors serviced. Companies are starting to get more concerned with culture of inclusion within the FM company and the Corporate Social Responsibility activities undertaken by them and include that parameter too in their vendor selection process. Key Topics Covered 1. Executive Summary 1.1 Market Size and Overview 1.2 Market Segmentation 1.3 Philippines Soft Services Facility Management Market 1.4 Philippines Hard Services Facility Management Market 1.5 Competitive Landscape 1.6 Trends, Developments, Issues and Challenges 1.7 Future Analysis and Projections 2. Research Methodology 2.1. Market Definitions 2.2. Abbreviations 2.3. Market Size and Modeling 2.3.1 Research Methodology 2.3.2 Variables (Dependent and Independent) 2.3.3 Multi Factor Based Sensitivity Model 2.3.4 Limitations 2.3.5 Final Conclusion 3. Philippines Facility Management Market Overview 3.1. Philippines Facility Management Market Overview 3.2. Business Acquisition Process in Philippines Facility Management Market 4. Philippines Facility Management Market Size by Revenue, 2012-2017 5. Philippines Facility Management Market Segmentation, 2017 5.1. By Soft and Hard Facility Management Services, 2017 5.1.1. Soft Services Segmentation (Cleaning, Security and Others), 2017 5.1.2. Hard Services Segmentation (Electromechanical Services, Operation and Maintenance and Fire Safety and Security System), 2017 5.2. By Single Services, Bundled Services and Integrated Services, 2017 5.3. By Sectors (Commercial, Residential, Healthcare, Industrial and Infrastructure), 2017 6. Trends and Developments in the Philippines Facility Management Market 6.1. Growing BPO Industry 6.2. Increasing Number of MNCs 6.3. Expanding Manufacturing Sector 6.4. Focus on Culture of Inclusion and Corporate Social Responsibility 7. Issues and Challenges in the Philippines Facility Management Market 7.1. Bureaucratic Government Departments 7.2. Lack of Focus on Building Efficiency 7.3. Small Size of the Healthcare Sector 7.4. Lack of Understanding of Various FM Contracts and Labour Force Training 8. SWOT Analysis for Philippines Facility Management Market 9. Vendor Selection Process for Philippines Facility Management Market 10. Competitive Landscape For Philippines Facility Management Market, 2017 10.1. Company Profiles of Major Players In Philippines Facility Management Market 10.1.1. ISS Facility Services Phils., Inc. 10.1.2. Sodexo (On-Site Services) 10.1.3. Jones Lang Lasalle (Philippines) Inc. 10.1.4. Century Property Management, Inc. 10.1.5. Santos Knight Frank 10.1.6. Atalian Global Services 10.1.7. Others 11. Philippines Facility Management Market Future Outlook and Projections, 2018-2022 11.1. Philippines Facility Management Market Size, 2018- 2022 11.2. Philippines Facility Management Market Segmentation, 2017-2022 11.2.1. By Soft and Hard Facility Management Services, 2017-2022 11.2.1.1 Soft Services Segmentation (Cleaning, Security and Others), 2017-2022 11.2.1.2 Hard Services Segmentation (Electromechanical Services, Operation and Maintenance and Fire Safety and Security System), 2017-2022 11.2.2. By Single Services, Bundled Services and Integrated Services, 2017-2022 11.2.3. By Sectors (Commercial, Residential, Healthcare, Industrial and Infrastructure), 2017-2022 12. Analyst Recommendations for Philippines Facility Management Market 13. Macro Economic Factors Impacting the Philippines Facility Management Market 13.1. GDP of Philippines, 2012-2022 13.2. Construction Industry in Philippines, 2012-2022 13.3. Healthcare Sector in Philippines, 2012-2022 13.4. BPO Industry in Philippines, 2012-2022 Companies Mentioned Atalian Global Services Centuary Property Management Inc. Cleanmatic Manpower Services Cushman Wakefield ISS Facility Services Phils. Inc. JEC Philippines JLL ( Philippines ) Inc. ) Inc. Mansion Maintenance Co. Inc. Paramount Property Management Philkleen Industries Corporation Quess ( Philippines ) Corp ) Corp Santos Knight Frank Sodexo For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/f0lmao Media Contact: Laura Wood, Senior Manager [email protected] For E.S.T Office Hours Call +1-917-300-0470 For U.S./CAN Toll Free Call +1-800-526-8630 For GMT Office Hours Call +353-1-416-8900 U.S. Fax: 646-607-1907 Fax (outside U.S.): +353-1-481-1716 SOURCE Research and Markets Related Links http://www.researchandmarkets.com ANN ARBOR, Mich., May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Pixel Velocity is pleased to announce that it has added talented executives in sales, marketing, engineering, and finance to support market demand for its Event Velocity software. Event Velocity is a digital operations software platform for automating the monitoring and management of remote and hazardous assets. "Attracting a group this talented really shows how people view the market opportunity for Event Velocity software," commented Pixel Velocity CEO Jonathan Murray. Patrick Talley has joined as Executive Vice President of Sales. Patrick brings significant prior experience in software sales and entrepreneurship. Over a distinguished 25-year career in oil and gas and healthcare, Patrick has closed over $250 million in enterprise sales. He is responsible for sales to the energy and utilities markets. In Marketing, Pixel is pleased to welcome Bob Chunn, who has led marketing and advertising for many corporate and entrepreneurial ventures. Bob has specific expertise in digital and content marketing and rose to the position of Vice President of Digital, at Borders Group. He will focus on strategic marketing, sales and customer satisfaction. Isaac Shi, co-founder of Houston-based Golden Section Technology (GST), has joined Pixel as Chief Technology Officer. Isaac has developed multiple enterprise software applications and mobile and big data solutions for millions of end users. He also has co-founded SaaS software ventures in health informatics and industrial automation. Matt Cassell rounds out the new additions to the team, focusing on finance. Matt has over 20 years of corporate finance experience, including leading the finance function for an education-technology startup in Chicago. He returned to Michigan in 2013 to lead strategy and analysis for the mortgage division of MB Financial Bank. He has worked for several entrepreneurial ventures over the course of his career. With these additions, Pixel Velocity is positioned to serve an expanding customer base and to continue to innovate it leading digital oilfield solutions. "Event Velocity enables customers to remotely monitor all of their assets 24/7, including their most remote and hazardous sites. Every day we identify a new opportunity to simplify, streamline or enhance customers operations," said Mr. Murray. "Our newest team members bring decades of experience in scaling technology companies, which will help us to expand our market presence." About Pixel Velocity Pixel Velocity Incorporated, is an Ann Arbor-based software company that develops IIoT edge computing solutions. The Company's Event Velocity software is a unified environment to consolidate, analyze, display, and alert data from any IIoT sensor. It includes video analytic capabilities for motion detection, infrared analytics for hydrocarbon leak detection, and event management. Pixel Velocity partners with Dell Technologies IoT Solutions Partner Program, Unicom, Erasco Group, and Twin Eagle Consulting to serve the upstream, midstream, and downstream segments of the oil and gas industry and the utilities market. Pixel Velocity, Event Velocity, and Insight Accelerated are registered trademarks of Pixel Velocity Incorporated SOURCE Pixel Velocity Related Links http://www.pixel-velocity.com LANSING, Mich., May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Michigan Colleges Alliance (MCA) is collaborating with Harvard Business School Online to offer students at participating MCA campuses a blended learning program. In the first phase, approximately 70 students from five Michigan private colleges offered HBS Online's Sustainable Business Strategy course to their students this spring. "When we built this course, one of my hopes was that it could be utilized to educate young people about the important role that business has in tackling some of the challenging issues of our time," said Harvard Business School Professor Rebecca Henderson. "The students and faculty from the MCA campuses who participated in this pilot are pioneers, and I look forward to seeing how they will apply the learnings from our course in their own communities." The participating colleges created a blended learning offering where students registered for a sustainable business course led by their own faculty and featuring the HBS Online course led by Professor Henderson. Students then applied their learnings through projects with businesses that were facing sustainability challenges, including Wolverine Worldwide and Merrill. Student Reaction "This was by far the most interactive course I have ever taken," said Mya Oleksiak, a sophomore at Adrian College. "I loved that the modules and field work put me in real-life situations, and the meetings with my professor and classmates tied it all together. It was a privilege to be part of it." "This was a huge opportunity to reinforce what I learned as a Sustainable Business major and to take it into the real world," said Tyson Marsh, a senior at Aquinas College. "The conversations with people in my group, from Bangladesh and Australia, helped me see different ways to apply and approach sustainability, and it is really amazing to be able to help a big global company like Wolverine solve a real sustainability problem." MCA Perspective "The HBS pilot is a perfect illustration of why MCA has become a national leader in private higher education collaboration," said MCA President Robert Bartlett. "It embedded content from the most prominent business education brand and a global learning network into existing classes offered by our member campuses. It then connected student classroom experiences to real projects in local communities. This best practice, active pedagogy model has produced tangible outcomes for both students and local businesses throughout the state." MCA plans to extend the program with another Sustainable Business Strategy offering in the fall and other HBS Online courses in the future. MCA represents 14 of the top independent colleges and universities in Michigan. Participating colleges included Adrian College, Albion College, Andrews University, Aquinas College, and Spring Arbor University. ABOUT HARVARD BUSINESS SCHOOL ONLINE Wherever you are in your career, Harvard Business School Online offers a unique and highly engaging way to learn vital business concepts. Launched as "HBX" in 2014, our first course was designed to help pre-MBA students learn the key concepts and vocabulary of business. Today, Harvard Business School Online delivers rigorous and immersive courses that enable professionals at every level to advance their careers, positively impact their organizations, and appreciate business in powerful new ways. Learn more at online.hbs.edu ABOUT HARVARD BUSINESS SCHOOL Founded in 1908 as part of Harvard University, Harvard Business School is located on a 40-acre campus in Boston. Its faculty of more than 200 offers full-time programs leading to the MBA and doctoral degrees, as well as more than 70 open enrollment Executive Education programs and 55 custom programs, and Harvard Business School Online, the School's digital learning platform. For more than a century, HBS faculty have drawn on their research, their experience in working with organizations worldwide, and their passion for teaching to educate leaders who make a difference in the world, shaping the practice of business and entrepreneurship around the globe. Copyright President & Fellows of Harvard College. Contact: Michele Reynolds, [email protected] SOURCE Harvard Business School Online TEMPE, Ariz., May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- PROTEOR Group is pleased to announce that Matthew Swiggum has been appointed as the new president and CEO of the U.S. division, PROTEOR USA, effective immediately. PROTEOR Group's COO Edouard Archambeaud recently stated, "Having Mr. Swiggum join our team is another significant step in PROTEOR's path to build a strong presence in North America. Matthew's impressive track record in growing a sales organization will be a tremendous asset to further the growth of our franchise. We are all very enthusiastic to begin this new chapter of our journey together." Swiggum's appointment is a clear reflection of the company's current state: positioned to continue global expansion and brand awareness surrounding the extensive line of innovative prosthetic and orthotic components now available in the United States. Mr. Swiggum brings decades of industry experience, strategic guidance and customer-focused passion to the company. "I am excited about the enormous opportunity that lies ahead as part of the PROTEOR USA family, and helping amputees and our customers achieve continued success." Recognized as a global leader and educator in the practice of sales and marketing excellence, his previous experience includes over 21 years with Ottobock Healthcare, most recently as the regional president and CEO, as well as a member of the board of directors with the Amputee Coalition of America since 2017. J. Blount Swain, the founder of Ability Dynamics (now known as PROTEOR USA) was responsible for growing the company and brand awareness to where it currently stands. His contributions and leadership were truly visionary, bringing the RUSH Foot to the forefront of the prosthetic industry with an emphasis on increasing the independence and well-being of amputees. His previous efforts are greatly appreciated. About PROTEOR USA PROTEOR USA, a North American company established in 2011 and located in Tempe, Arizona, continues its growth thanks to its unique glass composite feet developed by engineers from the aerospace industry for active amputee patients. Beyond this guarantee of quality, a strong brand identity was established on key social media channels that focuses on sharing experiences from the patients' perspective. www.proteorusa.com About PROTEOR INC. PROTEOR INC., an independent family-company, was established 105 years ago with its headquarters in Dijon, France. PROTEOR offers a complete range of high-quality products and services to the O&P world through more than 60 wholly owned clinics in France as well as several international subsidiaries and global distribution. Thanks to continuous investments in innovation, many medical and scientific partnerships and day-to-day cooperation with CPOs, PROTEOR enjoys a recognized expertise all over the O&P community. http://orthopaedics.proteor.com/ Media Contact: Holly Sanger, Director of Marketing, PROTEOR USA, 480.244.6684, [email protected] Related Images proteor-usa.jpg PROTEOR USA Related Links PROTEOR USA SOURCE PROTEOR USA Related Links http://www.proteorusa.com MENLO PARK, Calif., May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Global consulting firm Protiviti has been named by Working Mother magazine as one of the 2019 Best Companies for Multicultural Women. The annual list recognizes organizations that create and use best practices in hiring, promoting and retaining multicultural women. Protiviti scored particularly highly in the categories of multicultural women in leadership and access to programs that support women's advancement. "Protiviti offers a range of diversity initiatives to help all our employees thrive in the workplace, including having employee networking groups specifically for women, working parents, multicultural employees and women in technology," said Susan Haseley, Protiviti executive vice president, Global Diversity and Inclusion. "We are also pleased to see multicultural women and other diverse leaders take on strategic roles in growth areas for our firm, from technology consulting to regulatory compliance to innovation." Methodology Only companies that have at least 500 U.S. employees can apply for the Working Mother Best Companies for Multicultural Women honor. The winners were selected based on their answers to an extensive questionnaire covering representation; hiring; attrition and promotion rates; recruitment, retention and advancement programs; and company culture. The 2019 Best Companies for Multicultural Women honorees will be celebrated at Working Mother's national conference on July 9 and 10 in New York City and featured in the June/July edition of Working Mother magazine. In the last 12 months, Protiviti has been named: one of the Working Mother 2018 100 Best Companies; one of the Fortune 2018 Best Workplaces for Diversity; one of NAFE's Top Companies for Executive Women; and listed on Working Mother's Diversity Best Practices Inclusion Index. About Protiviti Protiviti (www.protiviti.com) is a global consulting firm that delivers deep expertise, objective insights, a tailored approach and unparalleled collaboration to help leaders confidently face the future. Through its network of more than 80 offices in over 25 countries, Protiviti and its independently owned Member Firms provide clients with consulting solutions in finance, technology, operations, data, analytics, governance, risk and internal audit. Named to the 2019 Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work For list, Protiviti has served more than 60 percent of Fortune 1000 and 35 percent of Fortune Global 500 companies. The firm also works with smaller, growing companies, including those looking to go public, as well as with government agencies. Protiviti is a wholly owned subsidiary of Robert Half (NYSE: RHI). Founded in 1948, Robert Half is a member of the S&P 500 index. Protiviti is not licensed or registered as a public accounting firm and does not issue opinions on financial statements or offer attestation services. Editor's note: Photo available upon request. SOURCE Protiviti Related Links http://www.protiviti.com "The natural wonders of Michigan come to life in each of these tracks," said Dave Lorenz, Vice President of Travel Michigan, part of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. "We cannot wait for Michiganders, and those around the world, to listen to Pure Sounds of Michigan and be transported to the natural sounds of calming waves rolling onto our beach shores, the gentle breezes atop a 300 foot dune and all of the state's colorful leaves bustling about a forest. From the artists themselves, to our partners at the DNR and Assemble Sound, this album is truly a love letter to Michigan." Produced and released by Detroit-based Assemble Sound to coincide with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources State Park Centennial celebration in 2019, the multi-faceted project has Michigan artists, companies and organizations in the mix. "Being outdoors is an immersive sensory experience," said Ron Olson, chief of the Michigan Department of Natural Resources Parks and Recreation Division. "Combining the familiar sounds of our state parks birds chirping, lapping waves, whistling wind with music created by Michigan artists is what makes this project perfect for celebrating the centennial. The album is a brand new way to experience Michigan state parks with the push of a button." Each track on the album was developed by utilizing sounds from state parks, which were recorded by local composers and producers Blair French and Eddie Logix. The 12 artists featured on the album were given the freedom to mix their track as they saw fit seeking inspiration from the sounds themselves and their personal experiences. A detailed look into the inspiration and process for the artists can be seen here: The Making of Pure Sounds of Michigan. "From its inception, the unique musical challenge of this project was combining hundreds of field recordings and ten different original compositions into something that felt simultaneously diverse and cohesive," said Garret Koehler, general manager of Assemble Sound. "Finishing the process with a world-class ambient album in-hand is a testament to both the talent of the artists involved and the potency of their shared connection to Michigan." Three singles from the album are currently released on michigan.org/puresounds and on major streaming platforms, including "Childhood Memories" by John Beltran, "Forest Trails" by Windy & Carl, and just released today, "The Rock" by Waajeed. The album's full track list includes: Dave Graw "Lighthouse at Sunrise" "Lighthouse at Sunrise" Todd Modes "Island Drift" Blair French feat. Ahya Simone "The Cedar and the Falls" feat. Ahya Simone "The Cedar and the Falls" Windy & Carl "Forest Trails" John Beltran "Childhood Memories" "Childhood Memories" Nuntheless "City of Sand" Eddie Logix "Lake of the Clouds" Greater Alexander "Dark Sky Dunes" Sterling Toles feat. Rafael Statin "Campfire Rituals" feat. Rafael Statin "Campfire Rituals" Waajeed "The Rock (Bridge to a New Day)" The album will be available as a free download or stream on all major streaming platforms on May 22. A limited edition of promotional vinyl of the full album was pressed by Detroit's legendary Archer Records. Detroit-based design brand Shinola will offer a limited edition Pure Sounds of Michigan vinyl with each turntable sold in June at stores throughout the country. The Shinola Hotel, created in partnership with Detroit-based commercial real estate firm Bedrock, will also include the vinyl in rooms outfitted with a turntable. Conceptualized by Weber Shandwick Detroit, who works to help build the Pure Michigan brand through web, media, public relations and digital marketing, Pure Sounds of Michigan is a powerful reminder of the importance of nature, and a persuasive invitation to come explore the range of beauty that Michigan holds. The Pure Michigan brand was created by the Birmingham, Michigan office of McCann Detroit. To learn more about the album, visit michigan.org/puresounds . To learn more about Michigan's state park centennial, visit michigan.gov/stateparks100. About Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) The Michigan Economic Development Corporation is the state's marketing arm and lead advocate for business development, job awareness and community development with the focus on growing Michigan's economy. For more information on the MEDC and our initiatives, visit www.MichiganBusiness.org. For Pure Michigan tourism information, your trip begins at www.michigan.org. Join the conversation on: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn, and Twitter. SOURCE Pure Michigan Related Links http://www.MichiganBusiness.org WASHINGTON, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Maryland Realtor JoAnne Poole testified before the House Subcommittee on Housing, Community Development and Insurance this morning as the panel examined racial disparities in American homeownership. Poole, who has 33 years of experience throughout the Baltimore, Maryland, region is currently Vice Chair of the National Association of Realtors' Multicultural Real Estate Leadership Advisory Group. In her testimony, she highlighted NAR's work to address some of the most disturbing trends in the U.S. housing market, particularly as African American and Hispanic homeownership rates of 41 and 47 percent, respectively, sit well below the national average of 64.2 percent. "To many people in this country, homeownership is synonymous with the American Dream, creating stable communities, increasing civic participation and building our feelings of self-worth and self-esteem," Poole told the House panel this morning. "If America is to remain a nation of homeowners, we must address the persistent barriers that minorities continue to face. NAR is working to close racial homeownership gaps by encouraging local governments to adopt zoning laws, building codes and other policies that encourage free market production of entry level homes and other affordable housing units." Poole was one of seven witnesses invited to testify at Wednesday's hearing, including National Association of Real Estate Brokers President Jeffrey Hicks. Realtors have partnered with NAREB as the group maintains a central and historic role highlighting the issues impacting minority homeownership in America. NAR, NAREB and the Urban Institute recently convened a roundtable focused on improving African American homeownership rates. A five-point framework that can be applied across all minority communities emerged from that meeting, a framework which continues to drive additional policy discussions today. "Priority should be placed on advancing local policy solutions; tackling housing supply and affordability; promoting equitable and accessible housing finance; reaching out to mortgage ready millennials and renters; and maintaining a focus on sustainable homeownership and preservation," Poole said. "NAR commends Chairman Clay and Ranking Member Duffy for facilitating critical discussions surrounding minority homeownership," said NAR President John Smaby, a second-generation Realtor and broker at Edina Realty in Edina, Minnesota. "Realtors have fought for decades to keep the American Dream available to everyone in this country. That fight continues on Capitol Hill and in state legislatures across the country as we seek out policies that will close these persistent and unacceptable racial homeownership gaps." The National Association of Realtors is America's largest trade association, representing more than 1.3 million members involved in all aspects of the residential and commercial real estate industries. SOURCE National Association of Realtors Related Links http://www.realtor.org WASHINGTON, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Realtor median net income increased 5% from 2017 to 2018, and 67% of all Realtors were female, an increase from 63% last year, according to key findings in the 2019 National Association of Realtors Member Profile. While overall membership grew from 1.23 million in 2016 to 1.36 in 2018, membership remained steady at 1.32 million as of April 2019, according to the report. The median tenure in real estate decreased from 10 to eight years and the median time spent at a real estate firm was recorded at four years, the same as 2018. "As the real estate industry continues to feel the impact of limited inventory, the typical number of transactions Realtors make in a year remained at 11 in 2018, the same as in the previous report. In addition, because of rising home prices across the country, the median brokerage sales volume increased to $1.9 million in 2018 from $1.8 million in 2017," Lawrence Yun, NAR chief economist, stated. The survey's results are representative of the nation's 1.3 million Realtors; members of NAR account for about half of all active real estate licensees in the U.S. Realtors go beyond state licensing requirements by subscribing to NAR's Code of Ethics and standards of practice while committing to continuing education. Demographic Characteristics of Realtors The report identified the typical Realtor as a 54-year-old white female who attended college and was a homeowner. Sixteen percent of Realtors had a previous career in management, business, or finance, and 15% worked in sales or retail. Realtors continue to see an overall growth in diversity of membership while a growing number of women are entering the profession. Since 2001, there has been a 20% increase in females and a 120% increase in minorities. Only 4% of Realtors reported real estate was their first career. Seventy-two percent of Realtors said that real estate was their only occupation, and that number increased to 82% among members with 16 or more years of experience. Business Activity of Realtors "Limited inventory continues to cause headaches in markets across the country and is preventing potential homebuyers from finding a home. For the sixth year in a row, Realtors cited the difficulty in finding the right property surpassed the difficulty of obtaining a mortgage. "However, rental business has been strong with more members involved in property management," said Yun. The typical property manager supervised 47 properties in 2018, up from 35 properties in 2017. The typical Realtor earned 13% of their business from repeat clients and customers and 17% through referrals from past clients and customers. Business Characteristics of Realtors Sixty-eight percent of Realtors were licensed sales agents, 20% held broker licenses and 14% held broker associate licenses. Fourteen percent of members had at least one personal assistant. Fifty-one percent of Realtors reported having a website for at least five years, 9% reported having a real estate blog, 73% of members were on Facebook and 58% are active on LinkedIn for professional use. The most common information found on Realtor websites was the member's own listings and home buying and selling information. Income of Realtors The median gross income of Realtors was $41,800 in 2018, an increase from $39,800 in 2017. Realtors with 16 years or more experience had a median gross income of $71,000down from $78,800 in 2017. In comparison, Realtors with two years or less experience had a median gross income of $9,300, a slight increase from $8,330. Median business expenses were reported at $4,600 in 2018, similar to the $4,580 recorded last year. In 2018, 36% of Realtors were compensated under a fixed commission split (under 100%), followed by 23% with a graduated commission split (increases with productivity). Office and Firm Affiliation of Realtors The survey looked at office and firm affiliation for members and found that over half of Realtors were affiliated with an independent company. Nearly nine in ten 10 members were independent contractors at their firms. The median tenure for Realtors with their current firm was four years again in 2019. Nine percent of Realtors worked for a firm that was bought or merged in the past two years. The National Association of Realtors is America's largest trade association, representing more than 1.3 million members involved in all aspects of the residential and commercial real estate industries. Survey Methodology In March 2019, NAR e-mailed a 92-question survey to a random sample of 174,242 Realtors. Using this method, a total of 12,700 responses were received. The survey had an adjusted response rate of 7.2%. The confidence interval at a 95% level of confidence is +/- 0.87% based on a population of 1.3 million members. Information about compensation, earnings, sales volume and number of transactions is characteristic of calendar year 2018, while all other data are representative of member characteristics in early 2019. Information about NAR is available at www.nar.realtor. This and other news releases are posted in the newsroom in the "About NAR" tab. SOURCE National Association of Realtors Related Links http://www.nar.realtor NEW YORK, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Reverence Capital Partners, a private investment firm focused on investing in financial services businesses, announced today that it has agreed to acquire Advisor Group Inc., a leading independent wealth management platform, which supports over 7,000 financial advisors with $268 billion of client assets. Advisor Group is well positioned to benefit from the soaring demand for both wealth management solutions and independent advisors offering best-in-class technology platforms. Reverence Capital's acquisition of Advisor Group also provides the company with the increased financial and operational resources needed to achieve critical scale. "We are extremely fortunate to bring such a highly sought after and respected business into our investment portfolio," said Milton Berlinski, Co-Founder and Managing Partner of Reverence Capital. "Advisor Group is one of the premier wealth management platforms in the U.S. and together with Reverence Capital's investment, wealth management expertise and industry relationships, the company is uniquely positioned to identify and tackle growth opportunities across the business." Mr. Berlinski continued: "Reverence Capital is investing in a strong and experienced management team. We look forward to working closely with them every step of the way." Jamie Price, Advisor Group President and Chief Executive Officer, said: "Our management team is excited to work closely with Reverence Capital to continue our growth momentum and success in serving independent financial advisors and their clients across the country. In Reverence Capital, we have found a well-resourced private equity partner that thoroughly understands our business, and shares our commitment to continuously invest in technology and other resources that drive success for our financial advisors. Our company's industry leadership is a testament to the dedication and energy of the financial advisors we are privileged to support. And as we move forward with our new owners, our emphasis on always being in our advisors' corner will remain central to all that we do." Under the terms of the transaction, Mr. Price will continue to serve as President and Chief Executive Officer of Advisor Group, leading the existing management team for the company as well as continuing to serve on its Board along with representatives from Lightyear Capital, PSP Investments and other members to be selected by Reverence Capital Partners in the coming weeks. As part of the transaction, Advisor Group, in coordination with Reverence Capital, expects to establish an advisor recognition and retention program, with details to be announced between signing and close. Business To Remain Independent It will remain business as usual for financial advisors and employees under the new ownership structure, under which Advisor Group will continue to operate as an independent and privately-held company, under the existing brands and organizational structure of the company and its four member firms: FSC Securities Corporation, Royal Alliance Associates, Inc., SagePoint Financial, Inc., and Woodbury Financial Services, Inc. Valerie Brown stated: "Having worked closely with Lightyear and PSP in reviewing potential transaction partners, I am confident that Reverence Capital Partners are ideal new owners that can intensify Advisor Group's growth momentum, while supporting our priority on investing in solutions that enable our advisors to best serve their clients and achieve their business goals." "Through operational improvements, increased efficiencies and a heightened focus on advisor recruitment, Advisor Group will continue to accelerate its growth and profitability," Mr. Berlinski said. "In addition, we expect to continue Advisor Group's leadership position as an experienced acquiror of wealth management platforms." Terms of Agreement Under terms of the agreement, Reverence Capital will purchase 75% of Advisor Group. Lightyear Capital, a New York-based private equity firm focused on financial services, and PSP Investments, one of Canada's largest pension investment managers, are expected to maintain up to a 25% stake in the company. Lightyear and PSP purchased Advisor Group in March 2016. Financial terms were not disclosed. Reverence Capital's acquisition of Advisor Group is subject to customary regulatory and other approvals and is projected to be completed in the third quarter of this year. Barclays Capital served as financial advisor and Simpson Thacher acted as legal counsel to Advisor Group. Kirkland and Ellis LLP acted as legal counsel to Reverence Capital in connection with the transaction and Davis Polk & Wardell LLP acted as legal fund counsel to Reverence Capital in connection with syndication of the transaction. About Reverence Capital Partners Reverence Capital Partners is a private investment firm focused on thematic investing in leading global, middle-market Financial Services businesses through control and influence oriented investments in 5 sectors: (1) Depositories and Finance Companies, (2) Asset and Wealth Management, (3) Insurance, (4) Capital Markets and (5) Financial Technology/Payments. The firm was founded in 2013, by Milton Berlinski, Peter Aberg and Alex Chulack, who collectively bring over 90 years of advisory and investing experience across a wide range of financial services sectors. For more information visit www.reverencecapital.com. About Advisor Group Advisor Group, Inc. is one of the nation's largest networks of independent financial advisors serving over 7,000 advisors and overseeing more than $250 billion in client assets. Headquartered in Phoenix, AZ, the firm is mission-driven to support the heroic role that advisors can play in the lives of their clients, offering securities and investment advisory services through its subsidiaries FSC Securities Corp., Royal Alliance Associates Inc., SagePoint Financial, Inc. and Woodbury Financial Services, Inc., as broker/dealers, registered investment advisors and members of FINRA and SIPC. Cultivating a spirit of entrepreneurship and independence, Advisor Group champions the enduring value of financial advisors and is committed to being in their corner every step of the way. For more information visit http://www.advisorgroup.com. Media Inquiries For Reverence Capital Partners: Steve Lipin/Michael Flaherty Gladstone Place Partners 212-230-5930 SOURCE Reverence Capital Partners Related Links http://www.reverencecapital.com SALEM, Va., May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Roanoke College has appointed Melanie Wine Tolan, a communications strategist, as the College's executive director of marketing and communications. In the newly created position, Tolanformer executive vice president at Edelman, a New York City- and Chicago-headquartered global communications firmwill join Roanoke College's senior leadership team on July 29 and report to President Michael Maxey. Tolan, who has more than two decades of account leadership in brand strategy development at Edelman in New York, served most recently as executive vice president, director of operations for global clients, working as the universal resource for leaders of the firm's most significant accounts. "Melanie will bring considerable experience that complements our strong communications team," Maxey said. "I am excited for Roanoke to benefit from her leadership and background. Part of the appeal of bringing Melanie to Roanoke is her core belief in liberal arts and her knowledge of the competitive landscape for all higher education." Tolan was selected after a comprehensive national search. She will lead the College's marketing and communications team to set vision, direction and coordination of marketing and communications resources across the College. "On my first visit to campus, I immediately felt something special at Roanoke College," Tolan said. "It's a stunning environment nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains. I was most impressed, however, by the goal of faculty and staff to ensure personal fulfillment for every one of its students. I'm thrilled to join President Maxey's team." Tolan is a board member of County Harvest Inc., a nonprofit food rescue organization in Westchester County, New York, and plans to be involved in community service in Salem. She graduated from Denison University with a Bachelor of Arts in communications. Roanoke College, a classic liberal arts college in Salem, Virginia, offers an innovative core curriculum and majors that allow for depth of study and research. Students participate in internships, creative projects, research, community service, and study awayendeavors that help them find their purpose in life. Roanoke is one of just 7 percent of colleges nationwide with Phi Beta Kappa, the nation's oldest, most prestigious honor society. Our beautiful undergraduate setting is just minutes away from a vibrant city and the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains. Follow Roanoke on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. For information, contact Roanoke College Public Relations Office (540) 375-2282 or Roanoke.edu. SOURCE Roanoke College Related Links http://www.roanoke.edu NEW YORK, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- As the world wakes up to the need for immediate action to fight climate change and plastic pollution, New York City-based startup Rocean announces a financing round of over $6 million to reinvent the bottled water industry with the Rocean One smart water countertop device. The bottled water industry is expected to reach $334 billion by 2023, with the market for sparkling water alone up 54% in the past four years. This staggering growth is directly correlated with the growing selection of water varieties, including sparkling, flavored, and enhanced beverages. "When we started Rocean, we knew we were building more than a device. We're building a platform with the same breadth of options as the entire bottled water industry," said Sunjay Guleria, Rocean's CEO & Founder. "Consumers are drinking bottled water that is filtered, carbonated, flavored, and enhanced with everything from CBD to caffeine. They won't give up the bottle easily. If we want to fight climate change, we need to give consumers all of their favorite beverages without the waste of packaging and shipping them around the world." Rocean's multi-use pods give users an endless selection of natural fruit flavors, supplements, and enhancements at a fraction of the cost and total carbon footprint of pre-packaged beverages. Their patent-pending micro-dosing system supports two pods at once, letting users mix their favorite flavors and enhancements to their personal preference. "We believe that personalization is going to drive the same level of innovation as seen in the digital music industry. By giving users full control over their beverages, the Rocean One brings hundreds of thousands of water-based beverage combinations to the common tap," said Lee von Kraus, Co-Founder and Chief Scientist at Rocean. "Whether electrolytes, natural turmeric for energy, or something that hasn't been thought of, you can make it with Rocean One. It's 'future-trend' proof." Globally, the amount of energy required to manufacture, transport, store, refrigerate and dispose of plastic bottles each year is equivalent to over 450 million barrels of oil, enough to fuel over 25 million vehicles for an entire year. "As the owner of Bluewater, which globally markets leading-edge water purifiers for home, commercial and public use, we're inspired by how Rocean is redefining the way US consumers connect with their changing hydration needs," said Blue co-founder and CEO Anders Jacobson. "Our global addiction to bottled water is dramatically-increasing our carbon footprint when the need to fight climate change has never been more urgent. In the Rocean team and product, we see a clear solution to address a massive challenge." The Rocean One sits snugly on a countertop at just 5" deep and is made from high-quality, sustainable materials like recycled bamboo. "I was inspired by the iconic architecture of the Roman aqueducts and how they solved the problem of transporting water many centuries ago," says Mohini Boparai Guleria, Co-Founder and Chief Creative Officer. "The final product is a reflection of our connection to fresh water and the potential for human ingenuity to do more with it." The first units of the Rocean One will be shipping late summer 2019. About Rocean Rocean makes smart appliances that change how we consume water. Rocean's first product, the Rocean One, is a seamless, highly personalizable, reusable water ecosystem with best-in-class filtration that also carbonates, flavors and enhances tap water. The Rocean One gives consumers more choice and convenience than they will find in their local supermarkets, all while helping them significantly lower their carbon footprint. Based in New York City and founded by serial entrepreneurs and concerned citizens Sunjay Guleria, Mohini Boparai Guleria, and Dr. Lee von Kraus, Rocean is guided by one simple question: What if we can enjoy our planet without harming it? www.rocean.com About Blue Headquartered in Stockholm, Sweden, Blue is a global investment company that serves as a catalyst for innovations that can solve some of the major challenges facing our plane. Blue invests in and operates Nordic and international companies and organizations that apply human ingenuity to deliver resourceful, sustainable solutions. Members of the Blue portfolio include Sweden-HQ'd Bluewater, Sweden-based international alternative energy company Climeon , Spain's TAPP tap filtration company, Baseload Capital , Sweden's Save by Solar , Visiba Care , South Africa's iDropwater , and Midsummer. SOURCE Rocean Related Links https://www.rocean.com TSX.V: SCZ FSE: 1SZ VANCOUVER, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ - Santacruz Silver Mining Ltd. (TSX.V:SCZ) (the "Company" or "Santacruz") reports on the operating results from the Veta Grande Project in Zacatecas, Mexico and the Rosario Project in San Luis Potosi, Mexico for the first quarter of 2019. Highlights: Consolidated silver equivalent production increases by 67% as compared to Q1 2018 and 8% as compared to Q4 2018 Veta Grande silver equivalent production increases by 184% as compared to Q1 2018 and 16% as compared to Q4 2018 silver equivalent production increases by 184% as compared to Q1 2018 and 16% as compared to Q4 2018 Veta Grande zinc recovery increases to 80% as compared to 36% in Q1 2018 and 57% in Q4 2018 Mr. Carlos Silva, Chief Operating Officer, stated "The first quarter production results continue to reflect operational improvements that were undertaken in 2018 including increased mine development at both mines and a metallurgical review of the mill processing flowsheet at Veta Grande. In particular, we are very pleased with the significant improvement in zinc recovery at Veta Grande." He continued, "The preliminary April production results from both mines show strong improvement over the Q1 numbers and are an indication of improved operating results for the rest of 2019." During Q1 2019 the Company's consolidated silver equivalent production was 257,138 ounces, a 67% increase over Q1 2018 production (154,175 ounces) and an 8% increase over Q4 2018 production (237,542 ounces). The Q1 2019 Veta Grande mill throughput tonnage was lower than in Q4 2018 because one of the four ball mills in the plant was taken offline during Q4 2018 and was refurbished during Q1 and placed back in service early in April. The last remaining ball mill to be refurbished was taken offline late in Q1 2019 and is expected to be put back in service in Q3. Work at the Rosario Project in Q1 2019 involved making final infrastructure changes and completing stope development to allow for a systematic improvement in mill throughput tonnage and head grade of material processed during Q2 and beyond. Preliminary production estimates for April indicate that the consolidated production for the Company was 20,300 tonnes processed resulting in 125,600 silver equivalent ounces being produced, sourced as to 13,600 tonnes and 82,170 silver equivalent ounces from Veta Grande and 6,700 tonnes and 43,430 silver equivalent ounces from Rosario. 2019 First Quarter Consolidated Production Results Summary of Production Results 2019 Q1 2018 Q4 2018 Q1 Material Processed (tonnes milled) 42,904 53,396 48,068 Silver eqv. ounce production(1) 257,138 237,542 166,442 Silver production (ounces) 93,573 77,848 48,102 Gold production (ounces) 158 244 135 Lead production (tonnes) 245 335 134 Zinc production (tonnes) 674 558 449 Average Head Grade (g/t Ag Eqv.)(1) 252 180 210 Development (metres) 1,547 1,811 982 2019 First Quarter Veta Grande Project Production Results Summary of Production Results 2019 Q1 2018 Q4 2018 Q1 Material Processed (tonnes milled) 32,625 36,719 34,928 Silver eqv. ounce production(1) 202,787 175,488 75,919 Silver production (ounces) 79,582 58,921 32,413 Silver head grade (g/t) 119 81 62 Gold head grade (g/t) 0.19 0.19 0.15 Lead had grade (%/t) 0.77 0.95 0.46 Zinc head grade (%/t) 1.89 1.90 0.94 Silver recovery (%) 64 62 47 Gold production (ounces) 97 113 56 Lead production (tonnes) 218 295 109 Zinc production (tonnes) 492 398 118 Average Head Grade (g/t Ag Eqv.)(1) 269 237 152 Development (metres) 1,025 1,113 531 2019 First Quarter Rosario Project Production Results Summary of Production Results 2019 Q1 2018 Q4 2018 Q1 Material Processed (tonnes milled) 10,279 16,676 13,140 Silver eqv. ounce production(1) 54.351 62,084 90,523 Silver production (ounces) 13,991 18,927 15,689 Silver head grade (g/t) 47 42 43 Gold head grade (g/t) 0.29 0.36 0.28 Lead head grade (%/t) 0.29 0.26 0.22 Zinc head grade (%/t) 2.09 1.26 2.91 Silver recovery (%) 90 84 85 Gold production (ounces) 61 131 79 Lead production (tonnes) 27 40 25 Zinc production (tonnes) 182 160 331 Average Head Grade (g/t Ag Eqv.)(1) 196 149 254 Development (metres) 522 698 451 (1 AgEqvOz = (Au*Pau)+(Ag*Pag)+(Pb*Ppb*2205)+(Zn*Pzn*2205) (Pag) Metal Prices 2019: Ag $15.25, Au $1,281, Pb $0.94, Zn $1.20 Metal Prices 2018: Ag $17.00, Au $1,295, Pb $1.00, Zn $1.35 About Santacruz Silver Mining Ltd. Santacruz is a Mexican focused silver company with two producing silver projects, Veta Grande and Rosario, and two exploration properties, the Minillas property and Zacatecas properties. The Company is managed by a technical team of professionals with proven track records in developing, operating and discovering silver mines in Mexico. Our corporate objective is to become a mid-tier silver producer. 'signed' Arturo Prestamo Elizondo, President, Chief Executive Officer and Director Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Forward looking information Certain statements contained in this news release constitute "forward-looking information" as such term is used in applicable Canadian securities laws. Forward-looking information is based on plans, expectations and estimates of management at the date the information is provided and is subject to certain factors and assumptions. In making the forward-looking statements included in this news release, the Company has applied several material assumptions, including, but not limited to, assumptions as to the continuation of payments under the Agreement, the expansion of the Vita Grande Project, the Company's financial condition and development plans do not change as a result of unforeseen events, third party mineralized material to be milled by the Company will have properties consistent with management's expectations, that the Company will receive all required regulatory approvals, and that future metal prices and the demand and market outlook for metals will remain stable or improve. Forward-looking information is subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause plans, estimates and actual results to vary materially from those projected in such forward-looking information. Factors that could cause the forward-looking information in this news release to change or to be inaccurate include, but are not limited to, the risk that any of the assumptions referred to prove not to be valid or reliable, which could result in lower revenue, higher cost, or lower production levels; delays and/or cessation in planned work; changes in the Company's financial condition and development plans; delays in regulatory approval; risks associated with the interpretation of data (including in respect of the third party mineralized material) regarding the geology, grade and continuity of mineral deposits; the possibility that results will not be consistent with the Company's expectations, as well as the other risks and uncertainties applicable to mineral exploration and development activities and to the Company as set forth in the Company's continuous disclosure filings filed under the Company's profile at www.sedar.com. There can be no assurance that any forward-looking information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, the reader should not place any undue reliance on forward-looking information or statements. The Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking information or statements, other than as required by applicable law. Rosario Project The decisions to commence production at the Rosario Mine, Cinco Estrellas Property and Membrillo Prospect were not based on a feasibility study of mineral reserves demonstrating economic and technical viability, but rather on a more preliminary estimate of inferred mineral resources. Accordingly, there is increased uncertainty and economic and technical risks of failure associated with this production decision. Production and economic variables may vary considerably, due to the absence of a complete and detailed site analysis according to and in accordance with NI 43-101. Veta Grande Project The decision to commence production at Veta Grande Project was not based on a feasibility study on mineral reserves demonstrating economic and technical viability. Accordingly, there is increased uncertainty and economic and technical risks of failure associated with this production decision. Production and economic variables may vary considerably due to the absence of a complete and detailed site analysis according to and in accordance with NI 43-101. SOURCE Santacruz Silver Mining Ltd. Related Links http://www.santacruzsilver.com/s/home.asp ST. PETERSBURG, Fla., May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Scout Investments, an investment management firm and affiliate of Carillon Tower Advisers, announced today that Timothy Burger, CFA, has joined Scout Investments as a senior analyst on the Small Cap team. Based in Scout's Kansas City headquarters, Mr. Burger joins the team led by James McBride, lead portfolio manager of the Scout Small Cap Equity Strategy, and will work with the team to conduct bottom-up fundamental analysis and valuation modeling to identify opportunities within the small-cap market. "Tim is an important addition to the Small Cap team and brings almost two decades of investment analysis experience across a spectrum of sectors and asset classes," said Michael Edwards, President of Scout Investments. "High-quality research and analysis is at the core of Scout's investment philosophy and processes, and we're confident that Tim will work seamlessly with the team to help deliver consistent results for our clients." Mr. Burger joins Scout following an 11-year tenure at asset manager Waddell & Reed, where he most recently served as an investment analyst and assistant portfolio manager on Ivy Asset Strategy since 2011. In this role, he provided broad research coverage and fundamental security analysis for a multi-asset flexible global portfolio, covering several sectors including media, telecom, asset managers, and financial exchanges. He joined Waddell & Reed in 2008 as a client portfolio strategist, and prior to that he served as an equity analyst with UMB covering industrials, including machinery, conglomerates, transportation and aerospace and defense. He started his career with UBS Wealth Management as a financial advisor. Mr. Burger earned a bachelor's degree in political science from the University of Kansas and his M.B.A. from the University of Kansas Graduate School of Business. "Tim's extensive experience and deep knowledge of many sectors will add to a strong team focused on finding the best investment ideas and solutions for our clients," Edwards said. "I am excited to join Scout at a time when a quality, research-driven approach to small-cap investment strategies is crucial," said Mr. Burger. "Scout's investment professionals, coupled with support from Carillon Tower, have a strong reputation in the marketplace, and I look forward to contributing to the team's success." About Scout Investments Scout Investment's equity investment teams employ distinct investment philosophies and processes to pursue long-term capital appreciation objectives that are consistent with client goals. Our thoughtful approach to asset management extends to how we cultivate client relationships. Visit scoutinv.com. About Carillon Tower Advisers Carillon Tower Advisers is a global asset management company that combines the exceptional insight and agility of individual investment teams with the strength and stability of a full-service firm. Together with our partner affiliates ClariVest Asset Management, Cougar Global Investments, Eagle Asset Management, Reams Asset Management (a division of Scout Investments) and Scout Investments we offer a range of investment strategies across asset classes through a number of vehicles, each with a focus on risk-adjusted returns and alpha generation. We believe this lineup of institutional-class portfolio managers can help investors meet their long-term business and financial goals. Ultimately, our structure allows affiliated investment teams to focus on what they do best: managing portfolios. Visit CarillonTower.com . Media Contacts: Renee Baker Carillon Tower Advisers (800) 521-1195 [email protected] Shree Dhond/Alyssa Noud Dukas Linden Public Relations (646) 722-6531 / (646) 722-6525 [email protected] SOURCE Carillon Tower Advisers, Inc. Related Links http://www.carillontower.com BUCHAREST, Romania, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Packaged as an interactive widget equipped with search functionality, the study performed by SEOlium is equally useful just for fun, for academic, or for scientific purposes. Additionally, marketers and investors may use it to discover business opportunities when performing market or niche-specific research. A study of the most looked-up English words "The monthly search volume represents Google's aggregation of global searches across all common variations and misspellings for each word in the dictionary. The data is an estimated average based on the usage in the previous months and is publicly available on their Keyword Planner Tool," explained a spokesperson for the firm. It looks like the top of the list is largely populated by big brands. No wonder to see Facebook, YouTube or Google there. But once you filter the most successful companies in the world a bunch of porn words emerges. This is mostly an indicator that people are using Chrome browser to actually visit those websites, rather than to find information about them. Once you ignore navigational queries, "translate", "weather", "news", "NBA", "game", "calculator", "mp3", and "trump" become the most popular English words all around the globe. Media Contact: Radu Plugaru +40 371 782 264 [email protected] SOURCE SEOlium AUSTIN, Texas, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Vertalo , a cap table and investor onboarding platform for real estate, private equity and venture-funded companies seeking secondary liquidity, is excited to announce its latest partnership with a leading global digital securities fundraising platform, seriesOne . This collaboration represents the accelerating development of the digital asset ecosystem, increased desire for friction-free secondary liquidity, and the convergence of traditional investing practices, digital assets and securities. Vertalo is the first company to design and deliver an on-chain investor on-boarding, and a cap table solution designed for broker-dealers seeking to offer digital asset solutions to their issuer clients. seriesOne can enable digital security offerings by providing a combination of fundraising infrastructure and access to a network of investors worldwide, to support companies raising capital. Dave Hendricks, CEO & Founder at Vertalo says, "Like our team at Vertalo, the team at seriesOne has decades of experience as investors, underwriters, entrepreneurs, and technologists. Vertalo's partnership with seriesOne is more proof of the convergence of finance, technology and entrepreneurship that we see in the emerging digital asset ecosystem." He continues, "Vertalo's partnership with seriesOne will enable our two teams to bring more deals to market and onboard more investors, while creating more financing and liquidity options for investors and other market participants. We look forward to supporting seriesOne and their growing client base." Vertalo's partnership with seriesOne is the third premier broker-dealer partnership in April for Vertalo, showing the increasing velocity and real world adoption of tokenized assets. "seriesOne is implementing an end-to-end solution which enables everything from initial investments in digital securities, to subsequent trading of those securities on an exchange,'' said Michael Mildenberger, CEO of seriesOne. "Vertalo's cap table technology offers a key ingredient to track digital securities throughout their life cycle, which improves investor confidence." For more information on Vertalo, visit www.vertalo.com or stay updated with Vertalo's communications: Telegram https://t.me/vertalotoken Twitter https://twitter.com/vertalo_ Medium https://medium.com/@Vertalo For more information on seriesOne, visit https://seriesone.com/ , or stay updated with seriesOne's communications: Twitter https://twitter.com/seriesone_info LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/seriesone/ About seriesOne seriesOne is a leading blockchain based FinTech company formed by industry veterans with decades of expertise across technology, investment banking, venture capital, and financial compliance. The firm enables digital security offerings by providing a combination of key technology, strategic consulting, fundraising infrastructure and access to a network of investors worldwide. All seriesOne services are designed to comply with applicable securities regulations, enabling companies to register, market, and escrow their fundraising initiatives. About Vertalo Launched in 2018, Vertalo is a cap table and investor onboarding solution founded to map the gaps between primary and secondary trading of security token offerings. Cayman-based Vertalo is the first product of SeriesX, an Austin Texas-based Security Token Investor Platform. Learn more about SeriesX and Vertalo at www.vertalo.com . SOURCE Vertalo Related Links https://www.vertalo.com PALO ALTO, Calif., May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- SightGlass Vision, Inc., a medical device company developing spectacle lenses to slow the progression of nearsightedness or myopia in children, today announced that, in support of Global Myopia Awareness Week, it will donate eyeglasses to children in need across the U.S. and Canada. Each of the 15 participating sites will receive up to 40 pairs of standard ophthalmic frames and impact-resistant spectacle lenses the standard of care for children who have myopia, hyperopia, or astigmatism. This effort is in support of the first annual Myopia Awareness Week (@MyopiaMovement), a collaborative initiative from the World Council of Optometry and Brien Holden Vision Institute to inspire action in caregivers to protect their children's vision and change the way optometrists understand and treat myopia, taking place May 13-19, 2019. "The increasing prevalence of myopia around the world is of great concern to us, and it has been well established that myopia often progresses rapidly during childhood," said Thomas W. Chalberg, Ph.D., co-founder and chief executive officer. "Our donation is grounded in the belief that no child should struggle with sight issues and it is our privilege to make this contribution to help children see better, while helping to raise awareness about the importance of myopia. We hope this effort will help make a difference in the lives of children who need corrective eyeglasses, and their families who are most in need of support." Myopia has seen a dramatic increase in prevalence over the past several decades. In the early 1970's, only 25 percent of Americans were nearsighted. By the early 2000's, that number had jumped to more than 40 percent. Myopia is now the leading cause of irreversible blindness in parts of Asia and it is estimated that almost half of the entire world's population, or five billion people, will be nearsighted by 2050. This increase is thought to relate to lifestyle changes, including less time outdoors and more eye-straining or near work-related activities such as reading and screen time. SightGlass Vision is working with the following eyecare professionals and practices who will dispense the eyeglasses to children most in need in their areas (listed in alphabetical order): David C. Ardaya , OD, MHA, Golden Optometric Group, Whittier, CA , OD, MHA, Golden Optometric Group, William J. Bogus , OD, FAAO, William J. Bogus , OD, FAAO, Salt Lake City, UT , OD, FAAO, , OD, FAAO, Shane Kannarr , OD, Kannarr Eye Group, Pittsburgh , KS , OD, Kannarr Eye Group, , KS Kyriakos (Ken) Mandadakis, OD, Dr. Mandadakis Kyriakos & Associates, North York, Ontario, Canada Clarke Newman , OD, FAAO, Plaza Vision Center, Dallas, TX , OD, FAAO, Plaza Vision Center, Michael O'Neal , OD, Dunes Eye Consultants, Dakota Dunes, SD , OD, Dunes Eye Consultants, Mike Prince , OD, Greene Eyes, Bryan, TX , OD, Greene Eyes, Howard Purcell , OD, FAAO, New England College of Optometry , Boston, MA , OD, FAAO, , Andrew J. Sacco , OD, FAAO Sacco Eye Group, Vestal, NY , OD, FAAO Sacco Eye Group, School of Optometry & Vision Science, University of Waterloo , Waterloo, Ontario, Canada , Richard Wilson , OD, FAAO, Advanced Eyecare, PC, Raytown, MO Myopia often increases rapidly during childhood and continues to progress into the teen years and early adulthood, leaving many with significantly impaired sight. This results in the need for stronger prescription glasses and increases the risk of potentially blinding conditions such as glaucoma, retinal detachment, and macular degeneration in adulthood. Glasses and contact lenses currently available in the U.S. only correct myopia, but do not help prevent it from getting worse. SightGlass Vision is developing new technology to slow myopia progression that is currently being investigated in clinical trials. Early intervention is key to preventing high myopia from developing. About SightGlass Vision, Inc. SightGlass Vision, Inc. is a clinical-stage medtech startup company focused on ending nearsightedness (myopia). Headquartered in Palo Alto, CA, SightGlass is developing innovative spectacle lenses to reduce the progression of myopia in children. Based on groundbreaking research from the University of Washington, SightGlass was founded in 2016 by Professors Jay and Maureen Neitz, who are world-renowned vision researchers, and Dr. Thomas Chalberg, a serial entrepreneur in the biotechnology and medical device sectors. For more information, please visit www.sightglassvision.com. SOURCE SightGlass Vision, Inc. Related Links http://www.sightglassvision.com NASHVILLE, Tenn., May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- "SmileDirectClub is very pleased with the Georgia federal court's ruling that allows us to continue to pursue federal antitrust and constitutional claims against the individual members of the Georgia Board of Dentistry. The Georgia Board's attempt to exclude non-dentists from taking 3D images of patients' mouths is a transparent move to block competition and impede patient-first innovations in teledentistry. We look forward to proving our claims in court and preventing the members of the Georgia Board of Dentistry from taking any unlawful and unconstitutional action that will ultimately harm consumers. As doctor-directed, remote clear aligner therapy enabled by SmileDirectClub's teledentistry platform gains acceptance with millions of consumers, retail partners, insurance providers, and a growing network of state-licensed dentists and orthodontists, organized dentistry has been ratcheting up its attempts to block competition. We will continue to educate these organizations and other stakeholders to correct misconceptions of our model that have been falsely perpetuated to further their anti-competitive goals. We will not give up the fight to democratize access to affordable, convenient, and safe oral care solutions for millions of Americans." SOURCE SmileDirectClub Related Links smiledirectclub.com NEW BRITAIN, Conn., May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Stanley Black & Decker (NYSE: SWK) announced today that it will audio webcast its Investor Day scheduled for Thursday, May 16, 2019, in New York, NY. Presentations by senior management will be webcast beginning at 8:00 AM EDT and concluding at approximately 12:00 PM EDT. The live webcast will be available in the "Investors" section of the company's website at www.stanleyblackanddecker.com. A replay of the webcast will be provided on the website and will be available for 90 days. Stanley Black & Decker, an S&P 500 company, is a diversified global provider of hand tools, power tools and related accessories, electronic security solutions, healthcare solutions, engineered fastening systems, and more. Learn more at www.stanleyblackanddecker.com. Investor Contacts: Media Contacts: Dennis Lange Shannon Lapierre Vice President, Investor Relations Vice President, Communications [email protected] & Public Relations (860) 827-3833 [email protected] (860) 827-3575 Cort Kaufman Director, Investor Relations [email protected] (860) 515-2741 SOURCE Stanley Black & Decker Related Links http://www.stanleyblackanddecker.com STOCKHOLM, May 9, 2019 In local currencies, sales increased by 3 percent for the first quarter. Reported sales increased by 11 percent to 3,258 MSEK (2,941). In local currencies, operating profit from product segments 1) increased by 7 percent for the first quarter. Reported operating profit from product segments increased by 15 percent to 1,238 MSEK (1,079). Operating profit amounted to 1,190 MSEK (1,047) for the first quarter. Profit after tax amounted to 880 MSEK (766) for the first quarter. Earnings per share increased by 19 percent to 5.17 SEK (4.36) for the first quarter. 1) Operating profit for Swedish Match product segments, which excludes Other operations. For the full report: www.swedishmatch.com/Investors/Financial-reports/Interim-reports/ Swedish Match telephone conference A telephone conference will be held today, Thursday, May 9 at 2:00 p.m. (CET), (1:00 p.m. UK time). At this time we will review and comment on the results. Participants will include Lars Dahlgren, Thomas Hayes, and Emmett Harrison. Listen to the telephone conference: www.swedishmatch.com/Investors/Presentations/Webcasts-and-audiocasts/ Telephone conference presentation: www.swedishmatch.com/Investors/Presentations/ Contacts: Lars Dahlgren, President and Chief Executive Officer Office +46-8-658-0441 Thomas Hayes, Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Office +46-8-658-0108 Emmett Harrison, Senior Vice President Investor Relations and Corporate Sustainability Office +46-8-658-0173 Richard Flaherty, President US Division, US Investor Relations contact Office +1-804-787-5130 This information is information that Swedish Match AB (publ) is obliged to make public pursuant to the EU Market Abuse Regulation and the Securities Markets Act. The information was submitted for publication, through the agency of the contact persons set out above, at 08.15 a.m. CET on May 9, 2019. This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com https://news.cision.com/swedish-match/r/interim-report-january---march-2019,c2807314 The following files are available for download: SOURCE Swedish Match LOUDON, Tenn., May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Global climate is not only warming but becoming more severe, resulting in major changes to weather events. Changes such as hurricanes and their resultant storm surges, tornadoes, drought-induced forest fires, localized rainfall and regional storm systems deliver multiple inches of rain while expanding known flood zones within river valleys and coastal areas. This is creating a dire need for a change to structural building systems worldwide. One company, VANHOOSECO, is addressing the need to alter the home building and construction industry. VANHOOSECO, a highly innovative precast concrete manufacturer from Knoxville, Tennessee, initially addressed this issue with the creation of the EnviroCast precast concrete insulated wall system. They have used their product on numerous custom homes throughout the Southeastern region of the United States. Selective homebuilders who saw the need for a sustainable, environmentally friendly construction method has made EnviroCast an ever-increasing go-to-building material in recognition of the planet's changing climate. The EnviroCast concrete panel with expanded polystyrene insulation and metal studs once installed is ready for interior buildout. Customers love the durability and sustainability of their product. Not satisfied with merely a successful precast concrete wall system, VANHOOSECO has designed and engineered a completely new home structural system that will create a paradigm shift away from wooden stick-built structures. This new sustainable home development model is called the "EnviroHome." The EnviroHome will have positive environmental impact on the future of residential design. Environmentally resistant homes that have minimal impact to the environment will become the norm for the housing industry. For that matter, the entire building and design sector of global economies will be required to adapt. The EnviroHome model provides for that need to adapt. It will be a non-cellulose precast concrete constructed home with cold formed steel interior and roof truss construction. No wood structural pieces nor paper cladded wall board will be used in its development. Therefore, with no cellulose, it immediately becomes fire-resistant and mold resistant. Impacts to flooded homes come primarily from mold formation on cellulose wall pieces, potential wood rot and pest issues may exist after the water recedes. VANHOOSECO has now offered a $10,000 design award for the best of the college architectural and design student's creativity in regard to the next version of the EnviroHome at the University of Kentucky's Design Charrette. "We wanted to initiate a learning program for disseminating the introduction of the EnviroHome to academia, while tapping into this new generation's creativity and out of the box thinking," said Mr. Don Atkins, President of VANHOOSECO. "This will be the first generation that will live their entire lives with climate change. We wanted to ensure a complete handoff of technology and design going forward. These will be the design professionals that will take EnviroCast and the EnviroHome concepts worldwide," Mr. Atkins added. The University of Kentucky's College of Design will provide student input at the upcoming Design Charrette on the Lexington Campus at Pence Hall from the 10th through 13th of May 2019. Additional invitations have been extended to the University of Cincinnati's, School of Architecture and Interior Design and Western Kentucky University's, School of Planning, Design and Construction. Architectural faculty of those schools, the leadership at VANHOOSECO, and construction leads of Gray Construction will serve as charrette judges. The public is welcome to attend the awards ceremony at Miller Hall on the Lexington Campus of the University of Kentucky at 5:30pm, Monday, May 13th. The Design Charrette concept was first used at the Ecole des Beaux-Arts School of Design in Paris, France. The word Charrette is French for small cart. That small cart would be pulled through the classroom at the end of an architectural design exercise. That small cart came to symbolize the summation of all the students' designs and creativity. "With climate change affecting the nature in which we build new homes, there will be a paradigm shift within residential development worldwide," Ralph Tharp, principal planner of VANHOOSECO said. Media Contact Ralph Tharp, AICP [email protected] 636-222-7476 Related Links VANHOOSECO SOURCE VANHOOSECO Related Links http://vanhooseco.com HAMILTON, Bermuda, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Third Point Reinsurance Ltd. (NYSE: TPRE) ("TPRE" or the "Company") today announced that its Board of Directors will appoint Daniel Malloy, currently CEO of the Company's main operating subsidiary, Third Point Reinsurance Company Ltd., as chief executive officer of Third Point Reinsurance Ltd. effective May 10, 2019. Malloy will succeed J. Robert Bredahl, whose resignation has been accepted by the Board. As part of a long-term succession planning process, the Board of Directors intends to evaluate the Company's leadership and seek to identify one or more external candidates who, along with Mr. Malloy, will be considered as permanent CEO going forward. Mr. Malloy, 59, has been an executive of the Company since its inception in 2012 and has led Third Point Reinsurance Company Ltd. since 2017. With more than 38 years of reinsurance experience, Mr. Malloy previously served as the Executive Vice President, Underwriting of Third Point Reinsurance Company Ltd. Prior to TPRE, Mr. Malloy worked at Aon Benfield from 2003 where he co-led the Specialty Lines practice groups. Before joining Aon Benfield, he was President and a board member of Stockton Reinsurance Ltd. in Bermuda from 1998 to 2003. He previously served as President of Centre Re Bermuda, where he was employed from 1993 to 1998. Mr. Malloy's appointment is subject to the approval of the Bermuda Department of Immigration. "After many years of working with Dan, we are thrilled that he is taking on this new role. A proven leader with a strong track record of success and deep expertise across all aspects of the business, he is exceptionally well qualified to take the Company to its next phase of development and growth," said Board Chairman Joshua L. Targoff. "On behalf of the Board of Directors, I would like to thank Rob for his leadership at TPRE. During his time as CEO, TPRE has taken important steps to improve its underwriting profitability, added key talent to its underwriting team, and begun to diversify its business mix. Rob leaves the company with a strong balance sheet and well positioned to capitalize on new opportunities," Mr. Targoff said. "I am excited to serve as TPRE's next CEO and work even more closely with the Company's Board, management team and talented employees as we build on our momentum and deliver even greater value for our customers and shareholders," Mr. Malloy said. "I am proud to have served at TPRE since its founding seven years ago and to have been part of the great progress we've made in building it into an innovative company with a team that is second-to-none," Mr. Bredahl said. About the Company The Company is a public company listed on the New York Stock Exchange which, through its wholly-owned subsidiaries Third Point Reinsurance Company Ltd. and Third Point Reinsurance (USA) Ltd., writes property and casualty reinsurance business. Third Point Reinsurance Company Ltd. and Third Point Reinsurance (USA) Ltd. each have an "A-" (Excellent) financial strength rating from A.M. Best Company, Inc. Safe Harbor Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements This press release includes "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements are subject to known and unknown risks and uncertainties, many of which may be beyond the Company's control. The Company cautions you that the forward-looking information presented in this press release is not a guarantee of future events, and that actual events may differ materially from those made in or suggested by the forward-looking information contained in this press release. In addition, forward-looking statements generally can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "may," "plan," "seek," "comfortable with," "will," "expect," "intend," "estimate," "anticipate," "believe" or "continue" or the negative thereof or variations thereon or similar terminology. Actual events, results and outcomes may differ materially from the Company's expectations due to a variety of known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors. Although it is not possible to identify all of these risks and factors, they include, among others, the following: results of operations fluctuate and may not be indicative of our prospects; more established competitors; losses exceeding reserves; highly cyclical property and casualty reinsurance industry; downgrade, withdrawal of ratings or change in rating outlook by rating agencies; significant decrease in our capital or surplus; dependence on key executives; dependence on letter of credit facilities that may not be available on commercially acceptable terms; inability to service our indebtedness; limited cash flow and liquidity due to our indebtedness; inability to raise necessary funds to pay principal or interest on debt; potential lack of availability of capital in the future; credit risk associated with the use of reinsurance brokers; future strategic transactions such as acquisitions, dispositions, mergers or joint ventures; technology breaches or failures, including cyber-attacks; lack of control over Third Point Enhanced LP ("TP Fund"); lack of control over the allocation and performance of TP Fund's investment portfolio; dependence on Third Point LLC to implement TP Fund's investment strategy; limited ability to withdraw our capital accounts from TP Fund; decline in revenue due to poor performance of TP Fund's investment portfolio; TP Fund's investment strategy involves risks that are greater than those faced by competitors; termination by Third Point LLC of our or TP Fund's investment management agreements; potential conflicts of interest with Third Point LLC; losses resulting from significant investment positions; credit risk associated with the default on obligations of counterparties; ineffective investment risk management systems; fluctuations in the market value of TP Fund's investment portfolio; trading restrictions being placed on TP Fund's investments; limited termination provisions in our investment management agreements; limited liquidity and lack of valuation data on certain TP Fund's investments; U.S. and global economic downturns; specific characteristics of investments in mortgage-backed securities and other asset-backed securities, in securities of issues based outside the U.S., and in special situation or distressed companies; loss of key employees at Third Point LLC; Third Point LLC's compensation arrangements may incentivize investments that are risky or speculative; increased regulation or scrutiny of alternative investment advisers affecting our reputation; suspension or revocation of our reinsurance licenses; potentially being deemed an investment company under U.S. federal securities law; failure of reinsurance subsidiaries to meet minimum capital and surplus requirements; changes in Bermuda or other law and regulation that may have an adverse impact on our operations; Third Point Re and/or Third Point Re BDA potentially becoming subject to U.S. federal income taxation; potential characterization of Third Point Re and/or Third Point Re BDA as a passive foreign investment company; subjection of our affiliates to the base erosion and anti-abuse tax; potentially becoming subject to U.S. withholding and information reporting requirements under the Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act; and other risks and factors listed under "Risk Factors" in the Company's most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and other periodic and current disclosures filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. All forward-looking statements speak only as of the date made and the Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Media Contacts Charles V. Zehren [email protected] 212-843-8590 Steve Murray [email protected] 212-843-8293 SOURCE Third Point Reinsurance Ltd. Related Links http://www.thirdpointre.bm HAMILTON, Bermuda, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Third Point Reinsurance Ltd. (NYSE: TPRE) ("TPRE" or the "Company") today announced the following promotions at its U.S.-headquartered subsidiary, Third Point Reinsurance (USA) Ltd. ("TPRE USA"): David Govrin has been appointed as President, TPRE USA; and David Drury has been appointed EVP, Global Head of Property Catastrophe Reinsurance, TPRE USA, a newly-created role. Mr. Govrin has more than 30 years of experience in the reinsurance and banking industries, including most recently as EVP, Underwriting and Head of Business Development for TPRE USA. Prior to joining TPRE USA, he served as a Vice President in Berkshire Hathaway's Reinsurance Group for seven years, as a key member of the underwriting team. Mr. Govrin replaces Manoj Gupta, who is no longer with the Company. Mr. Drury has more than 25 years of experience in the reinsurance industry, including most recently as SVP, Underwriting for TPRE USA. Since joining TPRE USA in July 2018, his responsibilities have included the development of the property catastrophe book. Prior to joining TPRE USA, Mr. Drury spent eighteen years at Chubb Ltd. (formerly ACE Ltd.) in various senior roles, most recently as Chief Underwriting Officer of Chubb Tempest Re Group, Chubb's worldwide reinsurance operations. Dan Malloy commented "We are very pleased that Mr. Govrin and Mr. Drury have agreed to lead the TPRE USA operations as we grow our business, including our new property catastrophe portfolio. They are leaders with substantial breadth of experience in reinsurance, and I am confident they will continue with the positive trajectory of the US Subsidiary that has started under Manoj's tenure." About the Company The Company is a public company listed on the New York Stock Exchange which, through its wholly-owned subsidiaries Third Point Reinsurance Company Ltd. and Third Point Reinsurance (USA) Ltd., writes property and casualty reinsurance business. Third Point Reinsurance Company Ltd. and Third Point Reinsurance (USA) Ltd. each have an "A-" (Excellent) financial strength rating from A.M. Best Company, Inc. Safe Harbor Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements This press release includes "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements are subject to known and unknown risks and uncertainties, many of which may be beyond the Company's control. The Company cautions you that the forward-looking information presented in this press release is not a guarantee of future events, and that actual events may differ materially from those made in or suggested by the forward-looking information contained in this press release. In addition, forward-looking statements generally can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "may," "plan," "seek," "comfortable with," "will," "expect," "intend," "estimate," "anticipate," "believe" or "continue" or the negative thereof or variations thereon or similar terminology. Actual events, results and outcomes may differ materially from the Company's expectations due to a variety of known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors. Although it is not possible to identify all of these risks and factors, they include, among others, the following: results of operations fluctuate and may not be indicative of our prospects; more established competitors; losses exceeding reserves; highly cyclical property and casualty reinsurance industry; downgrade, withdrawal of ratings or change in rating outlook by rating agencies; significant decrease in our capital or surplus; dependence on key executives; dependence on letter of credit facilities that may not be available on commercially acceptable terms; inability to service our indebtedness; limited cash flow and liquidity due to our indebtedness; inability to raise necessary funds to pay principal or interest on debt; potential lack of availability of capital in the future; credit risk associated with the use of reinsurance brokers; future strategic transactions such as acquisitions, dispositions, mergers or joint ventures; technology breaches or failures, including cyber-attacks; lack of control over Third Point Enhanced LP ("TP Fund"); lack of control over the allocation and performance of TP Fund's investment portfolio; dependence on Third Point LLC to implement TP Fund's investment strategy; limited ability to withdraw our capital accounts from TP Fund; decline in revenue due to poor performance of TP Fund's investment portfolio; TP Fund's investment strategy involves risks that are greater than those faced by competitors; termination by Third Point LLC of our or TP Fund's investment management agreements; potential conflicts of interest with Third Point LLC; losses resulting from significant investment positions; credit risk associated with the default on obligations of counterparties; ineffective investment risk management systems; fluctuations in the market value of TP Fund's investment portfolio; trading restrictions being placed on TP Fund's investments; limited termination provisions in our investment management agreements; limited liquidity and lack of valuation data on certain TP Fund's investments; U.S. and global economic downturns; specific characteristics of investments in mortgage-backed securities and other asset-backed securities, in securities of issues based outside the U.S., and in special situation or distressed companies; loss of key employees at Third Point LLC; Third Point LLC's compensation arrangements may incentivize investments that are risky or speculative; increased regulation or scrutiny of alternative investment advisers affecting our reputation; suspension or revocation of our reinsurance licenses; potentially being deemed an investment company under U.S. federal securities law; failure of reinsurance subsidiaries to meet minimum capital and surplus requirements; changes in Bermuda or other law and regulation that may have an adverse impact on our operations; Third Point Re and/or Third Point Re BDA potentially becoming subject to U.S. federal income taxation; potential characterization of Third Point Re and/or Third Point Re BDA as a passive foreign investment company; subjection of our affiliates to the base erosion and anti-abuse tax; potentially becoming subject to U.S. withholding and information reporting requirements under the Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act; and other risks and factors listed under "Risk Factors" in the Company's most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and other periodic and current disclosures filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. All forward-looking statements speak only as of the date made and the Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Contact Third Point Reinsurance Ltd. Christopher S. Coleman - Chief Financial Officer [email protected] +1 441-542-3333 SOURCE Third Point Reinsurance Ltd. Related Links http://www.thirdpointre.bm HARRISBURG, Pa., May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- The Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency today recognized three affordable housing leaders during its Housing Forum conference at the Hilton Harrisburg. Honored with the agency's Housing Pioneer Award were: Judee Bavaria, president and CEO, Presby's Inspired Life Vidhi Anderson , executive director of housing and land development, Presby's Inspired Life , executive director of housing and land development, Presby's Inspired Life William Gatti , president and CEO, TREK Development Group "The three people we recognize today are well known for their strong track records of achievement expanding affordable housing options for Pennsylvanians, and with these awards we express our gratitude for their lasting impact on the housing landscape in the commonwealth," said PHFA's Executive Director and CEO Brian A. Hudson Sr. "We thank them for their leadership, and we encourage others to be inspired by their example." The three award winners were presented with engraved brass plates recognizing this honor. PHFA's biennial Housing Forum provides professional development opportunities for people working in the housing field. Attendees participate in focused educational sessions and hear from nationally recognized speakers. The 2019 program of events included 26 educational sessions, four keynote presentations, a bus tour of a nearby affordable housing development, and a popular networking event. The conference ran May 8-9 and drew more than 650 attendees. About PHFA The Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency works to provide affordable homeownership and rental housing options for older adults, low- and moderate-income families, and people with special housing needs. Through its carefully managed mortgage programs and investments in multifamily housing developments, PHFA also promotes economic development across the state. Since its creation by the legislature in 1972, it has generated more than $14.2 billion of funding for more than 175,900 single-family home mortgage loans, helped fund the construction of 134,507 rental units, and saved the homes of nearly 49,690 families from foreclosure. PHFA programs and operations are funded primarily by the sale of securities and from fees paid by program users, not by public tax dollars. The agency is governed by a 14-member board. Contact: Scott Elliott 717-649-6522 (cell) [email protected] SOURCE Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency Related Links http://www.PHFA.org SAN JOSE, Calif., May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- International Technological University's founder Dr. Chan pioneered the pedagogy for cultivating Silicon Valley's quintessential engineer. ITU's CTO and alum, Kranthi Lammatha , perfectly manifests the founder's vision. During the Salesforce Higher Education Summit, hosted in San Diego, CA on Tuesday, April 16th, Kranthi represented ITU and won second place for the Dave Perry Overall Excellence in Innovation award. According to Salesforce.org, the award "recognizes a college or university that is using Salesforce to fuel innovation in recruiting, student success, advancement, marketing, community and/or engagement." Kranthi is an advocate for the oversight of cybersecurity in schools & universities citing the need to protect student records and academic data. Kranthi Lammatha, CCIE Certified, designed a hardware-based IT security API that consolidates information from fifteen disparate databases helping to facilitate accessibility of real time student information while ensuring cyber security of sensitive data. "Do or die is the old motto... do before you die is my motto," expressed Kranthi after winning the award. The young CTO's accomplishments are a testament of his beliefs. A migrant from Hyderabad, India, Kranthi earned his MS in Computer Science from ITU in 2009. He has contributed to tech teams at Sony as an IT Engineer and Cisco as a Security Architect, becoming a Cisco certified Cybersecurity Internet Expert at 21 in 2012 - the youngest at the time to attempt this achievement. Mr. Lammantha's other recognitions include the 2018 IAAA's Innovative Dedicated Professional Engineer, 2017 Business Journal's Top Tech Leaders 40 Under 40, and 2018 Higher Education AACRAO. Kranthi is also a member of several organizations, including AACRAO, IEEE's Young Professionals, Computer Society, APRA, Professional Commitment to the Advancement of Technology, and the Blockchain Council. His work and advocacy for grander security measures in universities and schools was commended by Harvard , and Yale . Kranthi Lammantha continues to be a trailblazer at the tech forefront of higher education. About International Technological University (ITU) ITU was established in 1994 as a nonprofit graduate university located in the heart of Silicon Valley. Our locale, flexible schedules, affordable tuition and internship program allows our students to immerse themselves in the bustling tech culture. Our mission is to cultivate an educational pedagogy that inspires innovative thinking, ethical leadership and entrepreneurial spirit through practical, industry relevant curriculum that reflects Silicon Valley culture. Visit www.itu.edu . SOURCE International Technological University Related Links https://www.itu.edu ORLANDO, Fla., May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Tupperware Brands Corporation (NYSE: TUP) President and Chief Executive Officer, Tricia Stitzel, will be presenting at Bernstein's 35th Annual Strategic Decisions Conference in New York, NY on May 29, 2019 at 3:30 p.m. ET. This presentation will be webcast and available on www.tupperwarebrands.com. Tupperware Brands Corporation, through an independent sales force of 3.0 million, is the leading global marketer of innovative, premium products across multiple brands utilizing social selling. Product brands and categories include design-centric preparation, storage and serving solutions for the kitchen and home through the Tupperware brand and beauty and personal care products through the Avroy Shlain, Fuller Cosmetics, NaturCare, Nutrimetics, and Nuvo brands. SOURCE Tupperware Brands Corporation Related Links http://www.tupperwarebrands.com GETINGE, Sweden, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- For the last ten years Getinge has been a driving force when it comes to Hybrid operating rooms (Hybrid ORs), a place where both diagnostics and therapies takes place. But even ten years before that we were already pioneering this area, it was just phrased differently: Image Guided Surgery. So in 2019, Getinge is celebrating 10 + 10 years of driving the future of the Hybrid OR. "Back in 1999 when we started providing these solutions, it was actually a customer who came to us because we had the heart of the Hybrid OR the operating table," recalls Thomas Schneider, Vice President Global Product Management at Getinge. The main request from the customer was clear they needed more and better real time information during surgery, especially about what was going on inside the patient. And they needed this information without being forced to lift or move the patient. Getinge teamed up with world-leading imaging partners to provide a complete solution and the best possible working environment for clinicians, where they could diagnose and treat patients at the very same time. "During the years we come to have much more to offer for the Hybrid OR such as modular room systems, OR integration systems, surgical lights, pendants, anesthesia machines and mechanical ventilators. The Hybrid OR really is the complete solution," says Thomas Schneider. Hybrid ORs enables numerous interdisciplinary use as well as conventional procedures, in a highly cost-efficient and flexible way. "Key is to optimize the use of space and equipment to maximize OR uptime and the use of expensive equipment such as imaging technology which can also be used for non-operative diagnostic procedures," explains Klaus Christian who has been heading the Hybrid OR team at Getinge for the last ten years. At the same time, trauma patient outcomes are significantly improved in the Hybrid OR since it reduces transport between departments and medical teams. As the patient remains in the sterile OR the risk of health care acquired infections is reduced. Also, repeated surgeries can be avoided since the clinicians immediately see if the ongoing surgery is successful, which means reducing the amount of anesthetic needed. "It is simply a safe area where you have everything you need to care for the patient in the best possible way. The imaging systems makes the invisible visible and the medical team can continue with procedures without putting the patient at risk by moving him or her," says Klaus. Patients who are scheduled for routine procedures also benefit from treatment in a Hybrid OR. "Clear intraoperative tumor visualization, for example, can improve tumor resection, minimize damage to healthy tissue and deliver better patient outcomes," explains Thomas Reichenbach, Senior Product Support Manager Hybrid OR Solutions at Getinge. He continues: "Even if we celebrate twenty years of providing this solution we still consider it the future of surgery; it is truly an environment with increasing possibilities. With over 1350 Hybrid ORs sold worldwide we have gained deep experience and still see huge potential to create even more value in the Hybrid OR together with our imaging partners and customers. It is an ongoing exciting journey where we will continue to be a pioneer." Find out more about Getinge's solutions for the Hybrid OR Media contact: Anna Appelqvist, Vice President Corporate Communications Phone: +46(0)10-335-5906 E-mail: [email protected] This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com https://news.cision.com/getinge/r/twenty-years-of-driving-the-future-of-surgery,c2807710 The following files are available for download: https://news.cision.com/getinge/i/getinge-hybrid-or-,c2622345 Getinge Hybrid OR SOURCE Getinge PHILADELPHIA, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- The Goldman Scarlato & Penny investor rights lawyers have filed claims in arbitration on behalf of a UBS YES investor who lost money invested in the UBS Yield Enhancement trading program. The claims were filed against UBS. Goldman Scarlato & Penny securities attorney Alan Rosca and his partners are working with other UBS Yield Enhancement Strategy ("YES") investors and plan to continue to file claims for compensation on their behalf. YES investors may contact attorney Alan Rosca or his colleagues Paul Scarlato or Doug Bench for additional information or a free evaluation of their legal options. Multinational brokerage firm UBS advertised its YES program as an option-based trading strategy that sought to increase returns for investors who committed a certain minimum amount of their portfolio (called a "Mandate") to the YES program. The investors were often shown a presentation, or "slide deck," which purported to describe YES program. UBS YES investors have started seeing substantial losses in their portfolios in December 2018. Those losses have continued to increase even as many investors started expressing serious concerns about the direction of their portfolios and the trading strategy. In their claims on behalf of UBS YES investors, the Goldman Scarlato & Penny securities attorneys are seeking compensation for the investors' losses in view of the trading strategy and risk disclosures surrounding the YES program, among others. The claims focus on a number of important issues, including (1) whether the UBS Yield Enhancement Strategy fully and adequately disclosed to investors important and major risks associated with the YES program; (2) whether the YES program was suitable for those investors' investment profile; (3) whether some investors' portfolios may have been overly-concentrated in the YES program; and (4) whether the actual trading strategy was consistent with the advertised strategy in the YES presentations and brochures. The Goldman Scarlato & Penny attorneys have launched a website with updates for UBS YES investors, at https://yieldenhancementlosses.com/. Investors who believe they lost money invested in UBS' Yield Enhancement Strategy may contact attorney Alan Rosca or his colleagues, Paul Scarlato or Doug Bench, for a free, no-obligation evaluation of their recovery options, at 888-998-0530 or via email at [email protected]. Goldman Scarlato & Penny 2019. Attorney advertising. Visit https://investorlawyers.org/ for important disclosures. SOURCE Goldman Scarlato & Penny, P.C. Related Links http://www.investorlawyers.org WASHINGTON, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- The U.S. Agency for Global Media's (USAGM) Media for Democracy Forum held on May 7, 2019 at the U.S. Institute of Peace brought together media experts, practitioners, opinion leaders, and policy makers to identify solutions to the biggest threats facing free media and to explore the leading and relevant information technology trends in journalism today. With USAGM and the rest of the journalism community having just commemorated World Press Freedom Day on May 3, a key theme throughout the day-long event was how news media can stand shoulder to shoulder with democratic institutions throughout the world to support universal values and good governance. U.S. Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX), U.S. Representative Chris Stewart (R-UT), technology policy expert and author Alec Ross, and USAGM Chief Executive Officer John F. Lansing addressed forum attendees at a critical juncture as both news media and democratic institutions are increasingly scrutinized and challenged around the world. U.S. Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX) said, "That's something that America should remember: that our principles can tear down walls. America should consistently be a voice for freedom, human rights, and democracy." He continued. "Because that truth is powerful and it can transform the world. That's where USAGM comes into play." U.S. Representative Chris Stewart (R-UT) noted, "... it was the 1st amendment that talks about a free press. If you lose this, you lose everything else. Our founding fathers understood that." USAGM CEO John F. Lansing remarked, "Like defense, development, and diplomacy, U.S. international media accurate, balanced and true is an essential part of our standing on the world stage." The Media for Democracy Forum also brought together representatives from National Endowment for Democracy, Freedom House, The Atlantic Council, The Hudson Institute, U.S. Department of State, U.S. Department of Defense, U.S. Agency for International Development, IREX, CNN, Deutsche Welle, University of Southern California, among other prominent government and civil society experts and groups, as well as the five USAGM networks-Voice of America (VOA), the Office of Cuba Broadcasting (OCB), Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty (RFE/RL), Radio Free Asia (RFA), and the Middle East Broadcasting Networks (MBN). Former President of NBC News and USAGM Senior Advisor and Strategist Steve Capus delivered closing remarks. By identifying best practices and opportunities for collaboration across sectors, the inaugural forum helped to forge a community of practice in support of publicly-supported, civically-focused international media. A forthcoming white paper will draw from the forum's conversations to identify opportunities for cooperation and to propose next steps to energize the ways in which media and technology can help bolster the world's democratic societies. For more information about USAGM's inaugural Media for Democracy Forum, go to https://www.usagm.gov/2019/05/07/media-for-democracy-forum/ . The United States Agency for Global Media (USAGM) is an independent federal agency, supervising all U.S. government-supported, civilian international media, whose mission is to inform, engage and connect people around the world in support of freedom and democracy. USAGM networks include the Voice of America, Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, Office of Cuba Broadcasting (Radio and TV Marti), Radio Free Asia, and the Middle East Broadcasting Networks (Alhurra TV and Radio Sawa). USAGM programming has a measured audience of 345 million in more than 100 countries and in 60 languages. Contact: USAGM Office of Public Affairs at 202-203-4400 or [email protected] SOURCE The United States Agency for Global Media (USAGM) Related Links https://www.usagm.gov PALO ALTO, Calif. and JINAN, China, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Varian (NYSE: VAR) today announced it has signed a strategic cooperation framework agreement with Shandong Cancer Hospital in China, for proton therapy clinical application and research. The agreement signing ceremony on May 9th in Jinan, China was attended by Professor Yu Jinming, academician of the Chinese Academy of Engineering and president of Shandong Cancer Hospital & Institute, Kolleen Kennedy, president, Proton Solutions and chief growth officer of Varian, and Dr. Zhang Xiao, vice president and head of Varian Greater China. In addition to the clinical application and research agreement, Varian has been selected via a public tender to equip the new multi-room Proton Clinical Research Center of Shandong Cancer Hospital in China with the ProBeam proton therapy system. Varian will also install its ARIA oncology information management system and Eclipse treatment planning software. The company will book the order for the equipment and software in the third quarter of its fiscal year 2019. The Proton Clinical Research Center of Shandong Cancer Hospital is co-funded by Shandong province and Jinan city governments and run by Shandong Cancer Hospital & Institute, one of the leading cancer centers in China. The new proton center is located in Jinan International Center for Medical Science as its core project. When completed, the center will feature three proton therapy treatment rooms with full 360-degree rotational gantries, as well as a fixed-beam research room, with the aim to treat patients in 2021, and to develop into a world-class center in 10 years to benefit local patients and ones from surrounding areas. "We are pleased to be partnering with Varian to build a first-class proton therapy center, training and research base, and making this cancer treatment technology available to many more patients in China and Northeast Asia," said Professor Yu Jinming, Academician of Chinese Academy of Engineering and president of Shandong Cancer Hospital & Institute. "Once operational, it will also be a platform for technology innovations and clinical translation to develop more advanced clinical research." "We are honored by this opportunity to strengthen our partnership with Shandong Cancer Hospital & Institute and expand access to proton therapy in China," said Kolleen Kennedy, president, Proton Solutions and chief growth officer, Varian. "Leveraging our extensive experience, superior capabilities, robust performance, and rich training and research resources, we are well-positioned to support Proton Clinical Research Center of Shandong Cancer Hospital to achieve its vision. We also hope to work together with Proton Clinical Research Center of Shandong Cancer Hospital to advance Flash therapy and move us closer to a world without fear of cancer." Varian will leverage its global leadership in proton therapy and further expand its cooperation with Shandong Cancer Hospital & Institute by creating a proton clinical training school, developing proton therapy clinical application guidelines in China, and conducting research on Big Data and AI, as well as Flash therapy, which represents the potential for a major breakthrough in the treatment of cancer. The center will be equipped with Varian's ProBeam system, which is the first to offer fully-integrated intensity modulated proton therapy (IMPT). The ProBeam system also consists of a superconducting cyclotron, 360-degree gantry and high-speed pencil-beam scanning technology. The system's integrated cone beam CT provides accurate patient positioning based on high quality anatomical images with excellent soft tissue resolution. In combination with ARIA oncology information system and Eclipse treatment planning system, it enables an efficient adaptive workflow. The system can also provide clinicians a viable path to potential next-generation treatments such as Flash therapy. Currently 26 leading proton centers have selected the Varian solution, and 10 of the centers are in clinical operation. To learn more about the ProBeam system, visit www.varian.com/probeam. About Varian Varian is a leader in developing and delivering cancer care solutions and is focused on creating a world without fear of cancer. Headquartered in Palo Alto, California, Varian employs approximately 7,000 people around the world. For more information, visit http://www.varian.com and follow @VarianMedSys on Twitter. Press Contact Mark Plungy Director, Global Public Relations +1 (650) 424-5630 [email protected] Helen Yang Manager, Greater China Public Relations +86 (10) 87836354 [email protected] Investor Relations Contact J. Michael Bruff Senior Vice President, Investor Relations +1 (650) 424-5163 [email protected] SOURCE Varian Related Links http://www.varian.com Accelerate is a must-attend event for everyone using Vertafore solutions and insurance industry professionals, providing essential opportunities to learn about new trends and innovations in the InsurTech space and work with product specialists to get the most out of technology investments. Vertafore recently announced its partnership with Amazon Web Services (AWS) as its preferred cloud provider, and the conference will allow Vertafore users to learn more about how the agreement will drive innovation and automate insurance processes. "At Accelerate, Vertafore customers get a chance to network with peers, learn new tips, hear from leaders, and participate in hands-on demonstrations," said Mike Foy, chairman of the NetVU executive board of directors. "It's all about customer success, and the recent appointment of Linda Dodson as NetVU executive director underscores that commitment, with her extensive experience with the independent agent channel." Notable events at the conference include: 5/21: General session luncheon with Vertafore CEO Amy Zupon to discuss what's new at Vertafore to discuss what's new at Vertafore 5/21: Question and answer session with Vertafore CEO Amy Zupon and The Anderson Agency Report President Steve Anderson on the topic of the future of independent insurance agencies and The Anderson Agency Report President on the topic of the future of independent insurance agencies 5/21: Tom Doran , SVP of Reagan Consulting, producer of the Best Practices Study for insurance, will address how to become a top-performing insurance agency , SVP of Reagan Consulting, producer of the Best Practices Study for insurance, will address how to become a top-performing insurance agency 5/21-5/23: TechHub hands-on learning and user-led education sessions 5/21-5/23: Innovation Labs, where customers can provide direct feedback on products, processes and user experiences, as well as brainstorm improvements 5/22: General session luncheon with NetVU leaders and keynote speaker Charles Duhigg , Pulitzer Prize-winning author of The Power of Habit: Why We Do What We Do in Life and Business and Smarter Faster Better: The Secrets of Being Productive in Life and Business , Pulitzer Prize-winning author of and 5/22: Joint presentation by Vertafore CTO Greg Ingino and Patricia Harman , editor in chief of Claims magazine, on how technology is reshaping insurance and the customer experience and , editor in chief of magazine, on how technology is reshaping insurance and the customer experience 5/23: Speech by Ellen Carney , principal analyst serving application development and delivery professionals at Forrester, on new types of risks that agencies need to understand "Accelerate is unique because it's an event for Vertafore customers that is organized and led by Vertafore customers," said Dodson. "That means it's 100% focused on the customer experience, with an Innovation Lab to help our members stay ahead of the curve, customer-led learning sessions and a host of educational opportunities, customer-support initiatives and networking activities. It's fitting that we're hosting the event in Cincinnati, as Ohio is home to some of the largest insurance providers in the nation," Dodson added. Find out more about the conference at www.netvu.org/web/Accelerate. To learn more about Vertafore's suite of integrated insurance agency management solutions, visit www.vertafore.com. About Vertafore For over 50 years, Vertafore, the leader in modern insurance technology, has built and supported superior InsurTech solutions to connect every point of the distribution channel. Vertafore's agency management, ratings, regulation, compliance, and connectivity products streamline workflows, improve efficiency and drive productivity for more North American insurance professionals than any other providerincluding more than 20,000 agencies, over 1,000 carriers and 23 state governments. Through a continual focus on operational excellence, development of innovative solutions, and alignment with key industry partners, Vertafore is leading the way for customers of all sizes by delivering results that make a difference. For more information about Vertafore, visit www.vertafore.com. About NetVU NetVU is an independent national member organization committed to providing industry advocacy, world-class education and networking to more than 25,000 insurance agencies, carriers and MGAs, and more than 500,000 users of Vertafore's solutions. NetVU's leaders envision a thriving, profitable insurance industry fueled by vibrant, efficient firms that fully leverage everything Vertafore's products have to offer. 2019 Vertafore and the Vertafore logo are registered trademarks of Vertafore. All rights reserved. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. MEDIA CONTACT: Alexea Candreva, SSPR | 719-475-0370 | [email protected] SOURCE Vertafore LONDON, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Visiongain has calculated that the global Land Seismic Equipment & Acquisition Market will see a capital expenditure (CAPEX) of $2,405mn in 2019. Read on to discover the potential business opportunities available. For E&P and mining industries, land seismic surveys are carried out to generate subsea bottom profiles. This type of surveying is conducted by generating mechanical sound waves that are sent into the earth. The energy reflected back from the earth is measured by recording sensors which are installed in mounted trucks which consist of tapes to record any activity. The land seismic operations require various equipment such as geophones, seismic sensors, streamers, hydrophones, air or water gun, streamers, and sub-bottom profilers. Previously declining prices of oil & gas have resulted in cutting investments in the E&P oil & gas sector. This, in turn, has resulted in land seismic acquisition companies making major cuts with regards to spending in order to remain profitable during this market downturn. Thus, the land or onshore seismic equipment & acquisition is highly dependent on the price of oil & gas prevailing in the market. Due to volatility in crude oil and natural gas prices, several upstream companies are cutting E&P budgets and even spending on land seismic equipment. However, technological advancements coupled with increased energy requirement in developing nations and exploitation of shale gas reserves are key drivers for the growth in demand for land seismic equipment over the forecast period. The land seismic equipment market experienced a shock after the oil price fall in late 2014 with the industry becoming cautious and cutting exploration expenses to retain profitability. Oil price recovery and the need for oil companies to continue to add value to their resources will drive a new wave of investment in seismic equipment from 2019 but constrained from lower oil price levels. For years before 2019, the limited exploration activity will be mostly met by current equipment. Visiongain's global Land Seismic Equipment & Acquisition Market report can keep you informed and up to date with the developments in the market, across seven different regions: North America, Europe, Middle East, Africa, Asia Pacific, Russia/CIS and South America. With reference to this report, it details the key investments trend in the global market, subdivided by regions, capital expenditure and equipment. Through extensive secondary research and interviews with industry experts, Visiongain has identified a series of market trends that will impact the Land Seismic Equipment & Acquisition Market over the forecast timeframe. To request sample pages from this report please contact Sara Peerun at [email protected] or refer to our website: https://www.visiongain.com/report/land-seismic-equipment-acquisition-market-forecast-2019-2029/#download_sampe_div The report will answer questions such as: How is the land seismic equipment & acquisition market evolving? What is driving and restraining the land seismic equipment & acquisition market dynamics? How will each technology in equipment & acquisition market submarket segment grow over the forecast period and how much sales will these submarkets account for in 2029? How will market shares of each the land seismic equipment & acquisition submarket develop from 2019-2029? Which individual technologies will prevail and how will these shifts be responded to? Which land seismic equipment & acquisition submarket will be the main driver of the overall market from 2019-2029? How will political and regulatory factors influence regional the land seismic equipment & acquisition market and submarkets? Will leading national the land seismic equipment & acquisition market broadly follow macroeconomic dynamics, or will individual country sectors outperform the rest of the economy? How will market shares of the national markets change by 2029 and which nation will lead the market in 2029? Who are the leading players and what are their prospects over the forecast period? How will the sector evolve as alliances form during the period between 2019 and 2029? Five Reasons Why You Must Order and Read This Report Today: 1) The report provides forecasts for the Land Seismic Equipment & Acquisition market by Equipment, for the period 2019-2029 Sensors submarket 2019-2029 Sources submarket 2019-2029 Cable Based Acquisition Systems submarket 2019-2029 Wireless Acquisition Systems submarket 2019-2029 Other Equipment submarket 2019-2029 2) The report also forecasts and analyses the Land Seismic Equipment & Acquisition market by Region from 2019-2029 North America United States CAPEX 2019-2029 Canada CAPEX 2019-2029 Mexico CAPEX 2019-2029 Asia Pacific China CAPEX 2019-2029 Japan CAPEX 2019-2029 India CAPEX 2019-2029 ASEAN CAPEX 2019-2029 Australia CAPEX 2019-2029 Rest of Asia Pacific CAPEX 2019-2029 Europe UK CAPEX 2019-2029 Italy CAPEX 2019-2029 Spain CAPEX 2019-2029 Germany CAPEX 2019-2029 Norway CAPEX 2019-2029 Rest of Europe CAPEX 2019-2029 Middle East GCC CAPEX 2019-2029 Iran CAPEX 2019-2029 Rest of the Middle East and Africa CAPEX 2019-2029 Africa South Africa CAPEX 2019-2029 Nigeria CAPEX 2019-2029 Rest of the Africa CAPEX 2019-2029 Russia/CIS CAPEX 2019-2029 South America Brazil CAPEX 2019-2029 Venezuela CAPEX 2019-2029 Argentina CAPEX 2019-2029 Rest of South America CAPEX 2019-2029 3) The report reveals the Drivers and Restraints in the Land Seismic Equipment & Acquisition market 4) The report includes PEST Analysis affecting the Land Seismic Equipment & Acquisition market 5) The report provides detailed profiles of the leading companies operating within the Land Seismic Equipment & Acquisition market: SA Exploration Terraseis Sercel Terrex Seismic WesternGeco Mitcham Industries International Seismic Co. (iSeis) ION Geophysical Corporation Geometrics Geospace Technologies Sinopec Corp. This independent 165-page report guarantees you will remain better informed than your competitors. With 118 tables and figures examining the Land Seismic Equipment & Acquisition market space, the report gives you a direct, detailed breakdown of the market. PLUS, Capital expenditure by equipment and region, as well as in-depth analysis of leading companies in the Land Seismic Equipment & Acquisition Market from 2019-2029 that will keep your knowledge that one step ahead of your rivals. This report is essential reading for you or anyone in the Energy sector. Purchasing this report today will help you to recognise those important market opportunities and understand the possibilities there. I look forward to receiving your order. To request a report overview of this report please contact Sara Peerun at [email protected] or refer to our website: https://www.visiongain.com/report/land-seismic-equipment-acquisition-market-forecast-2019-2029/ Did you know that we also offer a report add-on service? Email [email protected] to discuss any customized research needs you may have. Companies covered in the report include: Abu Dhabi Company for Onshore Oil Exploration (ADCO) Abu Dhabi National Energy Company (TAQA) Acoustic Geophysical Services (AGS) Advent Oilfield Services Allegro Funds Group Alphageo India Limited Apache Arabian Geophysical & Surveying (ARGAS) ARGAS ARM Geophysics Asia Oilfield Services Limited (ASIAN) AutoSeis Baker Hughes Baoding Longet Equipment Co., Ltd. BGP Inc. Breckenridge Geophysical CAMAC Energy Inc. CGG Chaparral Energy Chevron China National Offshore Oil Corporation (CNOOC) China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC) China Petroleum and Chemical Corporation (Sinopec) Dawson Geophysical Co Denbury Resources DownUnder Geosolutions Empresa Colombiana de Gas (Ecogas) ERHC Energy Inc. ExxonMobil Fairfield Nodal Fasken Gazprom Neft GEO EAST Co. Geokinetics Geometrics Geopartners Ltd. Geospace Technologies Geotec Spa Global Geophysical Services Gold Oil Peru SAC GSS Hydrocarb Energy Corp (HECC) INOVA Technologies International Seismic Co. (iSeis) ION Geophysical Corporation (ION) ION Integrated Seismic Solutions Kinder Morgan KrisEnergy LINC Energy LoneStar Geophysical Surveys (LSGS) Lukoil Metgasco Mitcham Industries Monarch Geophysical Services NIS Naftagas Oilfield Services NovaSPAN Occidental Petroleum Oil & Natural Gas Corp. (ONGC) OPACBARATA Panamerican Geophysical PASI srl Technologies Pertamina Petroleos Mexicanos (Pemex) Petroleum Geo-Services (PGS) Polaris Limited Repsol-YPF REXIMseis Ltd Royal Dutch Shell SAExploration Saudi Aramco Schlumberger SDP Services Ltd Seismic Exchange, Inc. Seismic Source Co. Sercel Shaanxi Yanchang Petroleum Group Sinopec Southwest Energy Statoil Swala Energy Limited Tanzanian Petroleum Development Corporation (TPDC) Terraseis Terrex Seismic Tesla Exploration Limited TGS TGS-NOPEC Geophysical Co. ASA Total Tullow Oil Viking Seismic Services WesternGeco WirelessSEISMIC XTO Energy Other Organisations Mentioned in This Report Alberta Geological Survey Argentine Government China's Ministry of Land and Resources Chinese Government European Union (EU) Mexican Government Ministry of Water Resources Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) SKSPMIGAS UK Government UK Oil & Gas Authority (OGA) United States Geological Survey (USGS) US Energy Information Administration (EIA) To see a report overview please e-mail Sara Peerun on [email protected] Related reports: Global Land Drill Rigs Market Analysis to 2027 Marine Seismic Equipment & Acquisition Market Forecast 2018-2028 Deepwater Drilling Market Report 2018-2028 Multi-Well Drilling Market Forecast 2017-2027 Onshore Oil & Gas Pipelines Market Report 2019-2029 SOURCE Visiongain Leisa entered the healthcare field more than 25 years ago in rehabilitation therapy, advancing her career through education and training to serve in nursing, geriatrics, occupational health, and pediatric neurology. Due to her strong relationship with her own grandmother, Leisa was drawn to senior living and accepted a position as wellness director for an assisted living community in 2009. From there, she excelled in roles as an executive director and regional leader, which encompassed training, operational management, and startup expertise. "It's a privilege to join the Watercrest team in passionately supporting our associates and honoring our seniors here in Georgia," says Leisa Cawthon, executive director of Watercrest Newnan. "I strive to lead this team with integrity, humility, and compassion to positively affect those around us." Watercrest Newnan is a signature Watercrest product offering 75 assisted living and 32 memory care apartments with premium accommodations, resort-style amenities, and world-class care. Residents will enjoy pampering in elegant Spa W, savor private label Watercrest wines at the wine bistro, and relish the flavors of locally grown, seasonal ingredients and organic fare whether dining outdoors, bistro-style, or in the chef's private dining room. Watercrest Newnan is ideally situated on nine picturesque acres at 285 Summerlin Boulevard in Newnan, Georgia, southwest of Atlanta. The innovative design includes a stunning promenade, pool, fireplace, signature water wall, multiple dining venues, children's play space, and Watercrest's uniquely designed Market Street Plaza, a highlight and crucial element of their multi-sensory memory care programming. During construction, future residents, family members and associates are welcome to visit the sales office, located in Newnan Crossing at 1053-A Bullsboro Drive to discover the difference in care, amenities and lifestyle offered at Watercrest Newnan. To schedule an evening or weekend appointment, contact Amy West, Community Relations Director, or Leisa Cawthon, Executive Director at 770-637-2207 or visit the office Monday through Friday from 9am to 5pm. Watercrest Newnan is one of two joint venture development projects between Watercrest Senior Living Group, and equity partner, Waypoint Residential, LLC, a vertically integrated real estate investment firm specializing in rental housing. Their second project, Watercrest Fort Mill, is currently under construction in South Carolina and will welcome residents in early 2020. A certified Great Place to Work, Watercrest Senior Living Group was founded by Marc Vorkapich, CEO, and Joan Williams, CFO, to honor our mothers and fathers, aspiring to become a beacon for quality in senior living by surpassing standards of care, service and associate training. Watercrest specializes in the development and operations of assisted living and memory care communities and the growth of servant leaders. Visit www.watercrestseniorliving.com. SOURCE Watercrest Senior Living Group Related Links http://www.watercrestseniorliving.com Located seven miles north of San Pedro Town on the scenic Ambergris Caye, the exclusive, 38-suite, adults-only beach-front resort is located in one of the region's most sought after vacation destinations and is just offshore of the Belize Barrier Reef, the second largest barrier reef in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The resort is owned by Sandy Point Group and will be managed by Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, making it the company's 26 th managed property in the region. Said Alejandro Moreno, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts president and general manager for Latin America and the Caribbean: "With nonstop flights from 17 cities in seven countries, on seven international airlines, getting to Belize has never been easier. What's more, the latest numbers released by Belize Tourism Board, show that the revenue generated in the accommodations sector has increased every year over the past seven years. Given the wealth of opportunity, we're thrilled to be opening our first managed Trademark in a place that's not only beautiful but also growing in demand." With more than 100 hotels globally, Trademark Collection by Wyndham is a soft-branded, independently-minded collection of upper-midscale and above properties. Just as no two travelers are alike every Trademark hotel is distinctive, taking on the character of the place in which they're built. Among just some of the notable hotels in the collection are The INFINITY Hotel & Conference Center in Munich, Germany, the HYPERION Hotel Basel in Basel, Switzerland, as well as notable American locations like the Galt House Hotel in Louisville, Ky., Ravel Hotel in Long Island City, N.Y., and the Zermatt Utah Resort & Spa in Midway, Utah. Costa Blu Beach Resort, a Trademark Collection by Wyndham hotel, is adults-only and offers guests a unique experience where tranquility, relaxation and leisure are the main attractions. Resort amenities include an on-site restaurant, seaside beach bar, outdoor pool, spa services and complimentary paddleboards and kayaks for a quick ride to explore the natural wonder of Ambergris Caye. Featuring large private balconies that overlook the Caribbean Sea, all suites come fully equipped with a kitchenette, mini refrigerator, microwave, coffee maker, 40 flat screen cable TV and Wi-Fi, among other amenities. "We are very excited to be partnering with Wyndham Hotels & Resorts to bring an internationally recognized brand to Belize and the region," said Mary Dahlquist, chief operations officer of Sandy Point Group. "With their tremendous global footprint, award-winning rewards program and extensive hotel and resort management experience, we're confident that partnering with a world-class organization like Wyndham will not only elevate Costa Blu Beach Resort but also help us drive increased exposure to travelers around the world." All Trademark hotels participate in Wyndham Rewards, the world's most generous rewards program with more than 30,000 hotels, vacation club resorts and vacation rentals worldwide. Designed for the everyday traveler, members earn a guaranteed 1,000 points with every qualified stay and may redeem points for a wide-range of rewards, including free nights, gift cards, merchandise and more. Learn more at www.wyndhamrewards.com. About Trademark Collection by Wyndham Each of Trademark Collection by Wyndham's upper-midscale-and-above hotels around the world from Germany and Switzerland to New York and Florida boast three common attributes: character, charm, and individuality. Launched in 2017, Trademark is the first soft-brand geared to three- and four-star hotel owners passionate about upholding their hotels' independent spirit and designed for everyday travelers seeking distinctive, attainable accommodations in sought-after destinations. For more information, visit www.wyndhamhotels.com/trademark. About Wyndham Hotels & Resorts Wyndham Hotels & Resorts (NYSE: WH) is the world's largest hotel franchising company, with approximately 9,200 hotels across more than 80 countries on six continents. Through its network of approximately 812,000 rooms appealing to the everyday traveler, Wyndham commands a leading presence in the economy and midscale segments of the lodging industry. The Company operates a portfolio of 20 hotel brands, including Super 8, Days Inn, Ramada, Microtel Inn & Suites, La Quinta, Wingate, AmericInn, Hawthorn Suites, Trademark Collection, and Wyndham. Wyndham Hotels & Resorts is also a leading provider of hotel management services, with more than 400 properties under management. The Company's award-winning Wyndham Rewards loyalty program offers over 75 million enrolled members the opportunity to redeem points at tens of thousands of hotels, vacation club resorts and vacation rentals globally. For more information, visit www.wyndhamhotels.com. About Sandy Point Group The Sandy Point group of companies in Belize, Central America, is the best choice for amazing real estate ownership opportunities. Boasting the largest group of successful and beautiful resort projects on Ambergris Caye, Belize (named a Top Island Destination multiple years in a row), the Sandy Point group of companies provides clients with expert in-house services of real estate sales, property management and real estate commercial development. Visit sandypointresorts.com to find more information about the award-winning Sandy Point Resorts. SOURCE Wyndham Hotels & Resorts Related Links http://www.wyndhamhotels.com Beijing, May 9 : Lawyers for a senior Huawei executive say they intend to apply for a stay of proceedings in a high-profile extradition case. Meng Wanzhou, 47, was arrested in Canada in December at the request of the US. The US wants the tech executive extradited to stand trial on charges including fraud linked to the alleged violation of sanctions on Iran. The case has soured relations between China, Canada and the US. Meng appeared on Wednesday in a Canadian court for a pre-extradition hearing, during which her lawyers argued that the case against her is flawed, the BBC reported. They said her arrest was an abuse of process and that her rights were violated when she was detained late last year, and that US President Donald Trump's "corrosive" comments were evidence that the case was politically motivated. The President has twice suggested he would intervene in the US Justice Department's case against Meng if it would serve national security interests or help achieve a trade deal with China. Both Huawei and Meng have denied all the charges against them. London, May 9 : The UK broadcasting regulator has launched a formal probe into an allegation that China Global Television Network (CGTN), the international news channel of the state-run China Central Television (CCTV), aired a confession forced from a British private investigator while imprisoned in Beijing. Ofcom said on Wednesday that it would investigate whether CGTN, which was launched as CCTV's new international brand in 2016, had broken the UK broadcasting code, the Guardian reported. In the UK, CGTN airs on platforms including Sky and Freesat. If found in breach of the code, Ofcom has the power to deliver sanctions ranging from on-air apologies to substantial fines and, in the most serious cases, revoking UK broadcast licences. The broadcasting regulator has moved to launch an official probe after assessing a fairness and privacy complaint filed by Peter Humphrey last November. "We have decided to investigate a fairness and privacy complaint about news programmes broadcast on CCTV News," said a spokeswoman for Ofcom. "If we find our rules have been broken, we will take the appropriate action." Humphrey, who worked as a journalist in the 1980s and 90s and was once a fellow at Harvard University, and his American wife, Yu Yingzeng, were imprisoned in China in 2013 on charges of illegally trading in personal information while consulting for pharmaceutical company GlaxoSmithKline (GSK). They subsequently appeared on Chinese state television, and internationally including on its English-language channel broadcast in Britain, making a public confession. The couple were deported from China in June 2015 after their jail terms were reduced. Ofcom has received four formal complaints about CCTV allegedly airing forced confessions. The regulator has earlier imposed sanctions on broadcasters in cases of forced confessions, the Guardain said. Last year, it fined the Saudi-owned news channel Al Arabiya $156,090 for broadcasting "confessions" by an imprisoned opposition leader without making it clear he had been tortured. In 2011, Press TV, the Iranian state broadcaster's English-language outlet, was fined $130,080 after the channel aired an interview with Maziar Bahari, an imprisoned Newsweek journalist, that had been conducted under duress. A year later, Ofcom revoked Press TV's right to air in the UK because its practice of running editorial oversight from Tehran breached broadcasting licence rules. New York, May 9 : A teenage American recruiter for the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) has admitted in a Texas federal court that he was guilty of a conspiracy to help the terrorist organisation, according to John C. Demers, the assistant attorney-general for national security. Michael Kyle Sewell, 18, who was arrested in February, admitted on Wednesday to encouraging an individual, identified in court documents only as co-conspirator 1, to join the LeT, the Department of Justice said. They were caught by a Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) undercover agent and an employee who infiltrated a terror recruitment ring by assuming the persona of jihadis, according to court documents. Sewell, 18, described himself to the undercover employee as "lone wolf" and "Lone Lion of Tawhid". Sewell is now considered convicted because of his admission, which is called a guilty plea in the courts here. When an accused pleads guilty, prosecutors often agree in return seek a to a more lenient punishment as they can avoid a full trial and the accused may cooperate with prosecutors and/or investigators. When he is sentenced in the federal court in Fort Worth, Texas, on August 12, Sewell faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a fine of $250,000. Another person, Jesus Wilfredo Encarnacion, 29, who was arrested at New York's JFK airport as he was about to board plane on his mission to join the LeT in February, is facing trial in on charges of conspiring to help the LeT. Although the co-conspirator was not identified in Sewell's case documents, IANS by examining the documents in his and Encarnacion's cases found parallels that link them . Encarnacion, who is apparently co-conspirator, made contact with Sewell through social media and said he wanted to join the Islamic State (IS) terror group, according to the documents. But Sewell told him "he should not join the IS because IS had no territory", and instead he suggested the "LeT and the Taliban" as "worth joining", according to transcripts in the documents. Sewell put him in touch with a person he thought could help Encarnacion travel to Pakistan to join the LeT, but that person was the FBI undercover agent, court papers said. Bloodthirsty hatred and bigotry are revealed in the transcripts of their communications. Sewell aksed the FBI undercover employee "to '(expletive) up' and 'slaughter' the 'Hindu Kafir', destroy their shrines and idols", according to the transcripts. Encarnacion wrote to Sewell, "Please. I want to kill on video. Terrify our enemies", according to the transcripts. According to the documents, Encarnacion wrote to the undercover employee: "You guys are against India. I read up on ya. You are beefing with India over Muslim land. I (expletive) hate Hindus. They can go to hell and I'm going to help you." "Will I live in Pakistan? I want to fight. I want to execute. I want to behead." (Arul Louis can be reached at arul.l@ians.in and followed on Twitter @arulouis) Chandigarh, May 9 : In the patriarchal state of Haryana, political parties are not fair with the fairer sex when it comes to the parliamentary elections. Only nine women were elected to Parliament so far. Eleven women (4.9 per cent) of the total 223 candidates are in the fray among 1.80 crore registered electors, including 83,40,173 women. No woman figures in the list of candidates of state's oldest regional party -- the Indian National Lok Dal (INLD), and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), an alliance partner with the Jannayak Janata Party (JJP), a breakaway faction of the INLD, even as the fairer sex constitutes 46 per cent (83,40,173) of the total electorate. However, the newly floated JJP has a lone woman candidate out of the seven seats it is contesting. The AAP is in fray on the remaining three seats. There are 10 parliamentary seats in the state, where polling will be held on May 12 in the sixth phase. The Congress has fielded two women candidates -- Kumari Selja from Ambala (reserved) and Shruti Choudhry from Bhiwani-Mahendragarh -- and interestingly both are from political dynasties. BJP's lone woman 'warrior' is Sunita Duggal, a former Indian Revenue Service (IRS)officer, from Sirsa (reserved). The BSP-Loktantra Suraksha Party alliance has fielded Raj Bala Saini from Sonepat and Shashi Saini from Kurukshetra. Both are contesting from rebel Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Raj Kumar Saini's Loktantra Suraksha Party. Dushyant Chautala-led JJP has a lone woman candidate Swati Yadav, 30, from Bhiwani-Mahendragarh. She is the youngest woman contesting the polls among major parties. An electrical engineering pass-out from Clemson University and an MBA from Georgia Tech University, both in the US, Swati has reasons for joining politics. "I want to see India providing equal opportunities to both the men and the women," she told IANS. A Fellow with the Department-cum-Centre for Women's Studies and Development of Panjab University in Chandigarh says both the BJP and the Congress promise 33 per cent women's reservation in the state assembly. When it comes to the parliamentary polls, both have handed out a raw deal to the fairer sex in giving nomination. "Women, especially in rural areas, are more active in Haryana than men, be it in the fields or while tending to livestock," he told IANS. Interestingly, six women candidates have plunged into the electoral battle this time, not for their political cause, but for cause of their kin. Four of these mothers -- Kiran Choudhary, Renuka Bishnoi, Prem Lata and Naina Chautala -- are sitting legislators in the state assembly themselves. The other two -- Asha Hooda and Kanta Chautala -- come from the well-established political dynasties of Bhupinder Singh Hooda and Om Prakash Chautala respectively. They are being part of the campaigning in these elections. Naina Chautala, the first woman from the Chautala clan to contest and win an assembly election in 2014 after her husband and father-in-law, Ajay Chautala and O.P. Chautala respectively, were convicted and imprisoned in January 2013 for the junior basic teacher recruitment scam, is a force to reckon with. Her 'Hari Chunari ki Chaupal', a campaign to mobilise women voters for the JJP floated by her sons -- Dushyant and Digvijay Chautala -- after severing political ties with the INLD, has been quite a hit in the state, especially in rural belts. State Congress President Ashok Tanwar believes the party gave due representation to the women in the Lok Sabha polls. "As compared to other parties, we allotted tickets to two women candidates. Our party President Rahul Gandhi has interacted with women groups and their issues adequately found space in the Congress national manifesto," he told IANS. BJP's state President Subhash Barala said: "Winnability was the criterion while allocating tickets. While we have women contenders from all seats, the ticket is given to the candidate who can win." Dalbir Kaur, sister of Indian prisoner Sarabjit Singh, who died in a Lahore hospital after a brutal attack on him in 2013, had sought a BJP ticket for contesting elections from Haryana's Sirsa. Tracing the history of state's patriarchal mindset, of the 131 members of Parliament elected from the state since Haryana came into being in 1966, only nine women were elected to Parliament. Of them, Kumari Selja was elected four times -- twice each from Ambala and Sirsa; Kailasho Saini twice from Kurukshetra; Chandrawati, Shruti Choudhry and Sudha Yadav represented Bhiwani, Bhiwani-Mahendergarh and Mahendergarh seats once, respectively. The constituencies of Karnal, Rohtak, Hisar, Faridabad, Gurugram and Sonepat have never sent a woman to Parliament. In these elections, there is no woman candidate from Karnal, Hisar and Gurugram. There is no Independent woman candidate in the fray. The highest number of three women candidate is contesting from Kurukshetra, which has a total of 24 candidates. In the 2014 parliamentary elections, the Congress had fielded one woman candidate, while the BJP did not field any woman candidate. In total, there were 10 women candidates in the fray out of 230 candidates. (Vishal Gulati can be reached at vishal.g@ians.in) Mumbai, May 9 : Actor Ayushmann Khurrana has been roped in for a gay love story "Shubh Mangal Zyada Saavdhan" -- second part of 2017 film "Shubh Mangal Saavdhan". Calling it as an "out and out entertaining film", Ayushmann says it will handle the subject of homosexuality sensitively. After the success of Aanand L. Rai's "Shubh Mangal Saavdhan", which addressed the subject of erectile dysfunction with humour, the second instalment of the franchise will delve upon the issue of homosexuality. It will be directed by Hitesh Kewalya. "It is a beautiful story told in the quintessential Aanand L. Rai style of filmmaking that will touch your hearts and leave a smile on your face," Ayushmann said in a statement. "It is one of the most brilliant films that I have read in a long time and it handles the subject of homosexuality really sensitively. It is a pleasure to collaborate again with the master storyteller of our times. It is an out and out entertaining film that will also make you think and that's the hallmark of good cinema," he added. While other details remain unknown, casting is underway and the film is scheduled to release early next year. As per several reports, the plot revolves around how a conservative family comes to terms with the fact that their son is gay. It is expected to go on the floors in the last week of August. According to producer Rai of Colour Yellow Productions, the success of "Shubh Mangal Saavdhan" encouraged the makers to turn it into a franchise which tackles subjects in the light-hearted manner. "With '...Zyada Saavdhan', we have a great story in hand and who better, but Ayushmann to play the lead since he brings a whole new level of expression to the table. Hope audiences enjoy it as much as the first film," he added. London, May 9 : A veteran who was dismissed from Britain's Royal Navy because of his sexual orientation, has planned to sue the UK's Defence Ministry for the return of his medals, which were cut from his chest when he was expelled in 1993. Joe Ousalice, 68, said he was "hounded out" of the navy and made to feel "disgusting" for being bisexual, after serving for almost 18 years, reports CNN. The British armed forces banned LGBT -- lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender -- service members until 2000, when the European Court of Human Rights ruled that it was unlawful. Ousalice, a former lead radio operator, served in the 1982 Falklands War, carried out six tours of Northern Ireland and travelled with the navy to Hong Kong and Egypt. He was awarded a long-service medal and good conduct badges. "The navy wasn't just my job, it was my life," he said in a statement on Wednesday. "But to do it I had to hide another important part of me, which I did because I loved the navy life so much I didn't want to give it up. But I shouldn't have been asked to choose." Ousalice concealed his sexuality in the navy but feared he was under surveillance by its Special Investigation Branch. While on shore leave in 1992, Ousalice was charged with and convicted of indecency in a civilian court, a charge he denies. Later, the navy accused him of indecent assault. Ousalice was dismissed from the navy and his medal and badges were cut from his chest directly after the trial, an incident he said "took me years to recover". Emma Norton, head of legal casework at the human rights group Liberty, which is representing Ousalice, told CNN: "At the time, the Ministry of Defence were actively seeking out LGBT people and submitting them to surveillance and hounding them out. "Liberty has been contacted by a lot of LGBT people who would describe things like their (mail) being opened, their friends and family being questioned, being followed around town when on leave, being followed into pubs. They had to live a secret life." Kolkata, May 9 : With the BJP expecting major gains from West Bengal, where the party has emerged as a force to reckon with, its biggest campaigners -- Prime Minister Narendra Modi and national president Amit Shah -- are carpet bombing the state canvassing for the Lok Sabha polls. The charge by Modi and Shah is in keeping with the awareness in the saffron camp that it might not repeat its 2014 feat of nearly sweeping the Hindi heartland states, three of which -- Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh -- it lost to the Congress in the Assembly polls held in November and December. Having devised an alternative "Look East" policy , the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is laying great stress on states like Odisha and West Bengal, particularly the latter for having the third highest number of Lok Sabha seats -- 42 -- after Uttar Pradesh (80) and Maharashtra (48). Modi and Shah's frequent visits to West Bengal are an indicator of the importance the BJP attaches to the state in its bid to retain power in New Delhi. Between March 26 and May 1, that broadly covers the campaign for the first five phases, Modi has held a total of 80 rallies or road shows -- 14 less than Shah. While Uttar Pradesh has seen the most number of rallies and road shows by the two -- Modi 13, Shah 12 -- Bengal comes second. Modi and Shah have together addressed more rallies in West Bengal than in their home state Gujarat. Even compared to Maharashtra, which it rules in alliance with the Shiv Sena, the eastern state apparently holds significance in BJP's scheme of things. Amid huge crowd turnouts, Modi has held ten rallies in West Bengal including one at the famed Brigade Parade Ground in Kolkata, while Shah has addressed 11 during the March 26-May 1 period. Riding on the party's Hindutva and anti-infiltrator planks, Modi and Shah have sought to encash on what the BJP has claimed to be growing disenchantment of the masses with the Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress regime. She has also been attacked over what the saffron outfit calls her strategy of 'Muslim appeasement'. In all their meetings, the two leaders have gone all guns blazing against Banerjee, who has time and again displayed her ambition of playing a key role at the national level. With the Congress fighting to retain its handful of strongholds and the Left not expected to make much of an impact, the contest in the bulk of the 42 seats in the state is mostly between the BJP and the Trinamool Congress. In 2014, Trinamool bagged 34 seats followed by the Congress with four while two seats each were won by the Left Front and the BJP. Shah, whose plans to undertake "Save Democracy Rath Yatras" in Wesst Bengal in December were foiled by the state government, has hit the campaign trail with a vengeance. Going hammer and tongs against Banerjee and her Trinamool Congress party over alleged corruption and law and order issues, Shah has vowed to throw out of the state 'all infiltrators', likening them to "termites". Modi, too, has been unsparing in his attacks against Mamata. Pillorying her over hindering the state's development, the Prime Minister has sarcastically described her as "speed-breaker didi" and highlighted the Narada, Saradha, Rose Valley scams. He has also mentioned "extortion rackets" operating in the garb of syndicates supplying building materials. Modi set a lot of tongues wagging with his claims that as many as 40 Trinamool Congress MLAs were in touch with him and would desert the party once the BJP won the poll. "When the lotus will bloom all over Bengal after May 23, Didi (Banerjee), you will see that your MLAs will also abandon you and run away. Forty of your MLAs are in touch with me even today," Modi told an election rally in Hooghly district on April 29. With Bengal voting in all the seven phases of the polls, both Modi and Shah have been trooping down to the state addressing mega rallies before every round. They are likely to hold road shows in Kolkata before the last phase of elections on May 19. Apart from Bengal, Modi and Shah have also extensively campaigned in Odisha as also other eastern states -- Bihar and Jharkhand. The four eastern states collectively have 117 parliamentary seats of which the NDA in 2014 secured 46 and the BJP's number was 37. However, the majority of these wins were from Bihar which it now rules in alliance with the JD-U and Jharkhand where it also runs its government. Of the 63 seats in West Bengal and Odisha, BJP/NDA had won just three seats (one in Odisha). New Delhi, May 9 : In a significant development, the Supreme Court Collegium has rejected the Centre's plea to reconsider the recommendation for the elevation of Justices Aniruddha Bose and A.S. Bopanna to the Supreme Court. However, on Thursday, it recommended Justices Bhushan Ramkrishna Gavai and Surya Kant for elevation as top court judges. "The Collegium resolves to reiterate the afore-mentioned recommendation dated April 12, 2019, especially since nothing adverse regarding competence, conduct or integrity of Justices (1) Aniruddha Bose, and (2) A.S. Bopanna, has been pointed out," the Supreme Court said in a statement on Wednesday. Justice Bose stands at number 12 in the combined seniority list of all-India High Court judges, while Justice Bopanna stands at number 36. On April 12, both judges were recommended by the Collegium for elevation to the Supreme Court after considering factors such as merit, seniority, as well as regional representation on the Supreme Court Bench. The Collegium stated, although the Centre had rejected the recommendation to elevate Justices Bose and Bopanna, that it would go against the principle of regional representation, but it has a different view on the matter. The Collegium, rejecting the Centre's plea, said that it was aware of the parameters while recommending the above two judges, and therefore, following the procedure of the seniority amongst judges in their respective High Courts and then looking into the combined seniority on all-India basis, it reiterated its proposal to elevate the two judges. Currently, Justice Gavai is a Judge of the Bombay High Court and Justice Kant is the Chief Justice of the Himachal Pradesh High Court. According to the Collegium recommendation published on the website, the five-member Collegium headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi met on Wednesday. At the meeting it was decided to recommended the two judges for the elevation as Supreme Court judges. Currently, there 27 judges in the top court against the sanctioned strength of 31 judges. Lucknow, May 9 : They are top Bhojpuri stars who have a huge fan following in eastern Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. As they step into the hotbed of caste politics in eastern Uttar Pradesh, they are drawing huge crowds - crowds that dance to their songs, ask them to repeat one-liners from their films and jostle for selfies. But will these crowds translate into votes for Ravi Kishan and Dinesh Lal Yadav 'Nirahua'? The actors, aspiring to be politicians, are sceptical themselves. Both the actors are seeking votes in the name of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in their constituencies. "This election is for Modiji. It is not for a candidate. I am seeking votes so that Modiji can get another term. As a candidate I am not that important," says Dinesh Lal Yadav 'Nirahua' who is contesting against Samajwadi Party President Akhilesh Yadav. Asked about his heavyweight opponent, Nirahua counters: "I tell people that I respect Akhileshji - he gave me a Yash Bharti award but we have to think about the nation and for that Narendra Modi is the best option." In Azamgarh, which has four lakh Yadav, three lakh Muslim and around 2.75 lakh Dalit voters, people are enjoying Nirahua's presence. "I go to each of Nirahua's meetings because he sings very well and I am his fan but when it comes to voting, I will go with Akhilesh Yadav because he is the 'bigger' Yadav," said Ramesh Yadav, a small-time shopkeeper. The local BJP workers are happy because the Azamgarh battle has grabbed the media spotlight. "We are happy because the profile of the election has been raised," said one of them. At the SP-BSP joint rally on Tuesday, BSP President Mayawati told her voters to vote for Akhilesh Yadav as if she was contesting the seat. This will obviously ensure Dalit voters for the SP President. Ravi Kishan, on the other hand, is contesting form Gorakhpur with 'Modiji ka naam aur Baba (Yogi Adityanath) ka aashirwaad'. "I have the name of Modi and the blessings of Yogi - this is enough for me to win the election," says Ravi Kishan rather confidently. Gorakhpur, held by Yogi Adityanath for five consecutive terms, is one of the most prestigious seats for the BJP in these elections. The prestige of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath is directly linked to this seat, more so because the BJP had lost the seat to the Samajwadi Party in last year's by-elections. The Chief Minister has spent two days in Gorakhpur, trying to muster support for Ravi Kishan. The caste arithmetic that points to a sharp Thakur-Brahmin divide in the region (and was one of the reasons for BJP's defeat last year) is working against the actor who is a Brahmin while Yogi is a Thakur. The Samajwadi Party has fielded Ram Bhual Nishad whose Nishad community in Gorakhpur is over 3.5 lakh strong. The Congress has fielded Madhusudan Tiwari who will cut into Brahmin votes. "Ravi Kishan is not being taken seriously. People come to see him, hear him recite dialogues and take selfies. He had contested the Jaunpur seat in 2014 and ended up with merely 4.5 per cent votes," says Tishu Kumar, a computer engineer. However, the presence of these two Bhojpuri stars in the polls has created a new market for their songs and films in eastern Uttar Pradesh. Azamgarh goes to polls on May 12 while Gorakhpur will vote on May 19. Rome, May 9 : Amanda Knox has announced that she will return to Italy in June for the first time since being convicted and jailed, but then ultimately acquitted in 2015, of killing her British roommate in the hilltop town of Perugia. Knox, a 31-year-old US citizen, will be attending a conference in Modena from June 13-15 on miscarriage of justice cases and "trial by media". The event is being organized by the Italy Innocence Project and the Camera Penale di Modena, an association of lawyers, CNN reported. In 2007, Knox was arrested alongside her then-boyfriend, Raffaele Sollecito, after the murder of her 21-year-old housemate Kercher. Kercher's body was found in the apartment she shared with Knox in Perugia and her throat had been slashed. Knox spent four years in prison for the murder before eventually having her conviction overturned by Italy's Supreme Court in 2015. She has not set foot on Italian soil since. "The Italy Innocence Project didn't yet exist when I was wrongly convicted in Perugia. I'm honoured to accept their invitation to speak to the Italian people at this historic event and return to Italy for the first time," Knox wrote on Twitter. Guido Sola, one of the festival's organizers, told CNN: "Amanda Knox is the icon of trials that the media carry out before the trial in court is conducted." "Amanda has been definitively acquitted in court, but in the popular imagination she is still guilty, because she has been the victim of a barbaric media trial." Knox, who after her acquittal returned to her native Seattle and embarked on a career as a writer and commentator, shot to global attention during a tortuous, seven-year judicial process in various courts in Italy. She complained of unfair treatment from the media and from Italian prosecutors, one of whom once referred to her as "a she-devil focused on sex, drugs and alcohol" who "lived life on the edge". In January, Europe's top human rights court ordered Italy to pay 18,400 euros (16,000 pounds) to Knox after ruling that she was denied adequate legal representation. Knox accused the Italian police of slapping her around the head, threatening her verbally and not giving her access to a lawyer or professional interpreter. Knox and her then boyfriend, Raffaele Sollecito, were convicted, then acquitted, then reconvicted in 2014, then finally acquitted by Italy's highest court of the sexual assault and murder of Kercher. The only person to have been convicted for the murder is Rudy Guede, a petty criminal and drug dealer born in the Ivory Coast who had been adopted by an Italian family in Perugia. He is serving a 16-year sentence. New Delhi, May 9 : Three new books, themed around romance and comedy, by filmmaker-author Pankaj Dubey are expected to hit the English and Hindi markets. Two of his titles will also be adapted as web series. Announced by publisher Penguin Random House India on Thursday, the launch of the three books will start with the first "Trending in Love", which is a love story with its share of socio political flavouring of the contemporary times. The upcoming title will be made into a web series for Voot by Viacom18's leading OTT digital site. His 2015 publication "Ishqiyapa: To Hell With Love" -- a thrilling story about finding love while in search of fame and money -- has also been acquired by ALTBalaji, a popular subscription-based video on-demand platform by Balaji Telefilms. With his written word entering the world of video, Dubey, a bilingual novelist and former BBC journalist, said that it is important to be fluid with work as content is taking different formats. "Trending in Love" will release by 2019 end with the two others to follow. Mumbai, May 9 : Amid a high voltage debate over statistical data, eminent economists in Mumbai on Thursday suggested that the Finance Commission "prioritize" the development of a robust statistical system. Finance Commission members are on a two-day visit to Mumbai to meet officials of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), banks, financial institutions and economists to discuss several key issues. "A suggestion was raised for Finance Commission to consider giving priority to the development of a very robust statistical system in the country in its recommendations," an official statement said on Thursday. Several economists in a statement released earlier questioned the government's intent behind the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) methodology revision, and called for the restoration of the independence of statistical bodies in light of the allegations that the government was suppressing uncomfortable data. Besides, other issues like the need to adopt an overall view on the borrowing requirements of the consolidated public sector were raised. "It should be carefully examined whether the increased tax devolution by the 14th Finance Commission has led to improvements in the social spending of state governments," the statement said. "There is possibly a mismatch between the demand and supply of state development loans, which can affect the cost of borrowings of state governments in the next five years," it added. The economists noted that there are indications that suggest that the fiscal deficit to Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) ratio of the states taken as a whole is gradually declining, after the spike seen in 2015-16 and 2016-17. Another point of concern raised was the quality of budgeting. "The quality of budgeting needs to improve. Governments should not budget for a low fiscal deficit, knowing fully well that it cannot be achieved. Projections of revenues from GST is tricky, but not impossible if one can work with the available data," the statement said. Given the shift from the use of the 1971 population to the 2001 population, some economists pointed towards the need for instituting an incentive structure in devolution. The composition of population in terms of the proportion of the elderly in the population is becoming significantly different across states, the statement said. Some economists also urged the commission to consider reinstating the system of specific-purpose grants to ensure development of social sectors and other sectors that require hand holding. Mumbai, May 9 : Sanam Puri, lead vocalist of popular band SANAM, says he met his "fan" Ananya Panday while recording for a song from her debut film "Student Of the Year 2", and has urged people to support her. According to a source, when Ananya found out that Sanam was roped in to sing "Fakira", she decided to be present for the song's recording session. "Ananya is a really sweet person. That was the first and the only time we met. It's her first film and I would love for everyone to support and encourage her. I was concentrating on the song mostly, but all of us sat together and shared some funny stories later," Sanam said in a statement. "And Ananya was practicing for 'SOTY 2' with Punit Malhotra (the film's director) in the studio," he added. Malhotra recently teased Sanam about his fan following. Commenting on it, Sanam said: "Punit is a fabulous human being, very humble and positive. And he's always accepted my voice in songs by (composers) Vishal-Shekhar. Big thanks to him too." London, May 9 : The BBC has fired broadcaster Danny Baker over his "stupid unthinking gag" on Twitter about UK's Prince Harry and his wife Meghan Markle's newborn son, Prince Archie. The now deleted tweet, which has been circulated on social media, showed an image of a couple holding hands with a chimpanzee dressed in clothes with the caption: "Royal Baby leaves hospital". The 5Live -- the BBC's national radio service -- presenter was accused of mocking the duchess's racial heritage. Baker said: "Just got fired from @bbc5live... Sorry my gag pic of the little fella in the posh outfit has whipped some up. Never occurred to me because, well, mind not diseased. "Soon as those good enough to point out it's possible connotations got in touch, down it came. And that's it." A BBC spokesperson said on Thursday: "This was a serious error of judgment and goes against the values we as a station aim to embody. Danny's a brilliant broadcaster but will no longer be presenting a weekly show with us." Harry and Meghan, whose mother Doria Ragland is African-American, revealed on Wednesday their new son was named Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor. Siwan : , May 9 (IANS) After unsuccessfully contesting twice, Hina Sahab, wife of jailed former MP Mohammad Shahabuddin, is going all out to win from Bihar's Siwan constituency which was once an undisputed stronghold of her husband. Wearing a traditional colourful 'hijab' to cover her head and to escape the scorching sun during campaigning, Hina (46) approaches people with folded hands as she moves from roads to narrow streets both in urban pockets and villages. One thing is certain. Siwan is no more a fiefdom of Shahabuddin who is still called 'Saheb' by his supporters. Over the years, Hina too has changed. She no longer covers her face with a veil. She has also learnt to be articulate, like a seasoned politician. "She is happily facing the heat and dust of electoral politics," senior Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader Awadh Bihari Choudhary said. Unlike her husband Shahabuddin, a criminal-turned-politician known locally as 'Bahubali' who hardly worked hard to woo the voters as his very presence was enough to fetch him support, Hina -- a graduate and mother of two -- is meeting people, visiting villages and addressing election meetings. Sensing that the battle is tough, Hina, an RJD candidate, is not taking any chances. After all, her main challenger is Kavita Singh (33), a Janata Dal-United (JD-U) candidate and wife of another 'Bahubali' Ajay Singh. The Communist Party of India-Marxist Leninist's (CPI-ML) Amarnath Yadav is also in the race, making Siwan a triangular contest. Kavita is also a JD-U legislator from the Daraundha Assembly seat and is contesting her first Lok Sabha polls. "For Hina, it is a prestige battle this time to prove her might in the absence of her powerful husband. She lost twice in 2009 and 2014," said Lal Babu, a small-time trader in Siwan. Hina was forced into electoral politics in 2009 after her husband was barred from contesting the elections following his conviction in a murder case. Similarly, Ajay Singh married Kavita, a post-graduate, on the condition that she would join politics. Soon after her marriage, Kavita was fielded from Daraundha by the JD-U to contest the Assembly by-elections following the death of Ajay's mother Jagmato Devi. She won and was again re-elected in 2015. Kavita was lucky when Siwan, a Bharatiya Janata Party seat, went to the JD-U under a seat sharing formula. The JD-U decided to field her in place of her husband Ajay Singh, who is facing several criminal cases and has a tainted image. Hina is hopeful of getting the support of favourable caste equations as the RJD-led Grand Alliance has been joined by the Rashtriya Lok Samata Party (RLSP) of former Union Minister Upendra Kushwaha, Hindustani Awam Morcha (HAM) of former Chief Minister Jitan Ram Manjhi and Vikassheel Insaan Party (VIP) of Mukesh Sahani, son of Mallah. Last time, the division of votes was sharp in the opposition camp and that helped the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) to win. But in this election, caste equations are different. According to election watchers, if the RJD-led alliance's traditional social support base of Muslims and Yadavs gains support from the Kushwahas, an agrarian caste, Mallahs and Dalits, it will give the NDA candidate a tough time. According to some media reports, Om Prakash Yadav, the sitting BJP MP, is unhappy after being denied ticket by the party and is not active in campaigning for the JD-U candidate. The total number of voters in Siwan is 17.9 lakh. The constituency has six Assembly segments. Siwan will go to the polls on May 12. New Delhi, May 9 : In a bid to strengthen its footprint, homegrown mobile phone maker Jivi Mobile said on Thursday that its manufacturing unit in Lonavala, Maharashtra will be fully operational in the next three months, the company said on Thursday. Jivi Mobiles in September announced it will invest Rs 100 crore to build its own manufacturing facility in Maharashtra. "Despite all the challenges, Jivi Mobile has been able to strengthen its roots with more than 40,000 retailers and over 800 service centres in the country," Murthy Bjas, Jivi Mobiles Group Director-Operations, said in a statement. The company said it is willing to collaborate with more partners, bring in more innovations to differentiate its products, expand into a whole new set of markets, and build stronger and passionate teams to stand out apart from the competition. "In 2019, we are clear in our objective of building a brand for the future," said Bjas. He said that the company has made strong inroads into Nepal, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Myanmar and several other countries in the last few months. "In the feature phone segment, we are targeting 5-8 per cent market share in a year and for smartphones we will try to gain 2 per cent market share in the Rs 5,000-Rs 7,000 segment (that it is operating in)," Bjas had said in an earlier statement. Currently, the company assembles feature phones in Delhi. The firm is focusing on Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities to achieve its growth target. New Delhi, May 9 : A Delhi court on Thursday granted bail to Congress leader Jairam Ramesh in connection with a defamation case filed by National Security Advisor Ajit Doval's son Vivek Doval. Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate Samar Vishal asked him to furnish a personal bond and surety of Rs 20,000 each in pursuance of summons issued against him. Meanwhile, the court also framed defamation charges against him and other two accused -- The Caravan magazine Editor-in-Chief Paresh Nath and reporter Kaushal Shroff. After they pleaded not guilty and claimed trial, the court listed May 27 for recording of evidence. In March, the court had summoned Ramesh and the other accused in connection with a defamatory article titled "The D-Companies", published in the magazine on January 16. Observing that allegations made against Vivek Doval were "prima facie defamatory", the court had said there exists sufficient ground to proceed against the accused. Rome, May 9 : Pope Francis on Thursday issued new global rules for reporting sexual abuse in the Catholic Church, making it mandatory for the first time for all dioceses to set up systems for reporting abuse and cover-ups. In an Apostolic letter, which is set to become Church law, he made clear that any sexual advance involving the use of power will now be considered abusive, CNN reported. The new rules require all Catholic dioceses around the world to have a "public and accessible" system in place for reporting abuse by June 1, 2020. "The crimes of sexual abuse offend Our Lord, cause physical, psychological and spiritual damage to the victims and harm the community of the faithful," the Pontiff wrote in the letter. For the first time, clerics and other Church officials will be obliged to disclose any allegations they may have heard. Previously, this had been left to each individual's discretion, the report said. Reports are expected to be made within 90 days to offices within Church dioceses. The decree also defined the covering-up of abuse as a specific category. For decades the Catholic Church has been plagued by a series of sex abuse scandals in different countries around the world. The new rules come after a global meeting on sexual abuse at the Vatican in February and represent the Pope's pledge to offer "concrete measures" to combat sexual abuse. There has not previously been a uniform, universal system in the Catholic Church for reporting and investigating allegations of abuse. Although the norms represent an important clarification of procedures to be followed, they do not deal with the question of what happens to a priest or bishop who breaks these rules. Thousands of people are thought to have been abused by priests over many decades and the Church has been accused of covering up crimes around the world. Survivors say new safeguarding protocols are needed to protect minors. Dehradun, May 9 : Uttarakhand Power Corporation Limited (UPCL), the sole state-run electricity distribution company, has awarded a Rs 388 crore contract for underground cabling at Haridwar to Vindhya Telelinks Ltd, an M. P. Birla group company. With this, Haridwar is all set to become Uttarakhand's first city where power lines will go underground by 2021. "After finalising the tendering process, we have awarded the contract for underground cabling at Haridwar to Vindhya Telelinks Ltd," said B C K Mishra, UPCL Managing Director, here. Mishra said the work on the project under the central government-sponsored Integrated Power Development Scheme (IPDS) will begin after May 23 when the election process in the country will be completed. "We are hopeful that the project will be completed before the commencement of the Kumbh Mela in 2021," said Mishra. The whole of the Kumbh area in Haridwar encompassing 26 sq kms will be covered through the underground cable lines. Haridwar is the second city, after Kashi in Uttar Pradesh, where the underground cable project is being implemented. "After Kashi, Haridwar will become the second city in India where the power lines will go underground," Chief Minister Trivendra Singh Rawat said. After Haridwar, the focus will be on Dehradun where the UPCL is also planning to implement a similar underground cable project shortly. A detailed project report (DPR) has already been sent to the central government for approval of that project. Jaipur, May 9 : The prime accused in the Alwar gangrape case was picked up from Uttar Pradesh's Mathura on Thursday, taking the number of those arrested to five even as BJP held protests accusing the government of "deliberately suppressing" the case in view of the Lok Sabha elections. Prime accused Hansraj has been arrested from Mathura on Thursday morning, while another Mahesh was arrested from Shahpura on late Wednesday night, police said. Ashok Gujjar, Inderaj Gujjar and Mukesh were arrested earlier and police now say that only one more accused, Chhotelal, is absconding and a hunt is on to trace him. According to the FIR filed by the victim, the incident took place on April 26 when the accused allegedly waylaid her and her husband, took them to an isolated place and gangraped her in front of her husband. The accused also recorded the crime and uploaded the video on social media, which went viral. The crime sparked off controversy after the victim's husband on Wednesday accused police of delaying action, allegedly in wake of the second round of Lok Sabha elections in the state on May 6. Soon after his allegations came out, there were protests with people from all sections demanding justice for the couple and accusing the state government of intentionally delaying action in the case for political gain. The Bharatiya Janata Party had staged a march to Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot's residence on Wednesday but were stopped on the way by police. On Thursday, the BJP held a protest at the collectorate with Union Minister Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore, and BJP state President Madan Lal Saini also present. Saini said that BJP had held similar protests all across the state. BJP's Rajya Sabha member Kirorilal Meena, who reached Alwar on Thursday, appealed to the authorities to take strict action against Superintendent of Police Rajeev Pachar and SHo Sardar Singh under The SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, for intentionally keeping the case on hold and depriving the Dalit victim and her husband of justice. He said suspending the inspector and departmental action against the SP was not enough and they should be sent behind bars. Bheem Army chief Chandrashekhar, who reached here from Uttar Pradesh on Wednesday, had called for a statewide shutdown on Friday if the accused were not given strict punishment. Sunam : , May 9 (IANS) Calling for a vote against the Akalis who he said resorted to sacrilege to polarise communities, Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh on Thursday made an emotional appeal to not let Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP destroy the country's biggest strength -- its unity. Addressing an election rally here in support of Congress candidate from Sangrur Kewal Singh Dhillon, he said this land of martyrs was an inspiration for those who had sacrificed themselves for an India that belongs to all religions and communities. Vowing not to spare the Badals or anyone involved in trying to divide the people of Punjab through desecration of the holy scriptures of various religions, the Chief Minister said they would have to pay for their sins, including the firing on people protesting against sacrilege cases. Paying his tributes to Shaheed Udham Singh, whose picture he was presented, Amarinder Singh said the freedom fighter's selfless sacrifice remains an inspiration for Indians even today. He recalled the incident of Udham Singh keeping a bottle of blood-soaked Jallianwala Bagh soil next to his pillow, for years, out of sheer grief at the tragic killings of innocent Indians. Those people were of a different mettle, he said, exhorting people to ensure that the India of their dreams was not destroyed by communal forces. The nation was passing through difficult times and these Lok Sabha elections would decide its future by choosing between those engaged in communalising politics and those desirous of building a secular India, said the Chief Minister. Modi and his men are breaking the strength of the nation and usurping the achievements of the armed forces as their own for furthering their political interests, he said, adding that as an Army officer he served Indian forces and not Modi's forces. Attacking the Akali candidate from Sangrur Parminder Singh Dhindsa, Amarinder Singh blamed the former Punjab Finance Minister for the fiscal crisis faced by the state and the additional debt burden of Rs 31,000 crore he had put on the coming generations. He said his government would complete the farm debt waiver process for the 10.25 lakh small and marginal farmers as promised. "If we can do it despite the fiscal crisis in Punjab, why could Parkash Singh Badal not do it?" he asked. However, he reiterated that debt relief was only a temporary measure and implementation of the M.S. Swaminathan Commission report was the only solution to end the woes of the farmers in the country. The promise of smartphones to aid youths in education is on way to being fulfilled, Amarinder Singh said, adding that the first batch of such phones would be distributed soon after the elections. Kolkata, May 9 : A BJP delegation approached the Election Commission (EC) on Thursday seeking 100 per cent coverage by central forces of polling booths in West Bengal's constituencies which are set to vote in the sixth phase on Sunday. "In view of violence in the last few phases of the Lok Sabha polls in West Bengal, we demand that 100 per cent booths should be covered and protected by the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF)," the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) said in its complaint to the EC. State BJP Vice President Jayprakash Majumdar and members of the coordination cell met Chief Electoral Officer Ariz Aftab and argued that "free and fair election cannot be conducted without complete protection of voters and booths". Also, BJP candidate Soumitra Khan from Bishnupur constituency and another leader Shankudeb Panda (both of them defected to the BJP from the Trinamool Congress) held a sit-in protest outside the CEO office. Amidst the demand for central forces, Panda, Khan and other party workers were also seen celebrating Rabindranath Tagore's 158th birth anniversary. They garlanded his poster and sang some of Tagore's compositions. New Delhi, May 9 : The country's fiscal deficit at Rs 8.51 lakh crore at the end of February 2019 had touched 4.52 per cent of the GDP, a senior Finance Ministry source said on Thursday citing its data in this regard. The government's has pegged its fiscal deficit target for 2018-19 at 3.4 per cent for which was revised upwards from the earlier 3.3 per cent. The government is yet to release the fiscal deficit figure for the last financial year, including the figure for March. At the end of February, the fiscal deficit is at Rs 8,51,499 crore had crossed 134 per cent of the budget estimate (BE). In the corresponding period of previous year the deficit stood at 120 per cent . "The receipts are sufficient to cover only 61 per cent of expenditure. As a percentage to GDP, fiscal Deficit is 4.52 per cent and revenue deficit is 3.45 per cent", says the Finance Ministry note. Till end-February, the total expenditure of the government was Rs 21,88,839 crore or 89 per cent of BE. The figure for the corresponding Period of the Previous Year (COPPY) was 90 per cent. It comprised Revenue Expenditure of Rs 19,15,303 crore, or at 89 per cent of of BE, as compared to 88 per cent in the year-ago period and Capital Expenditure of Rs 2,73,536 crore at 87 per cent of BE. Against this, the receipts were far less. Total receipts were Rs 13,37,340 crore by end-February, or at 73 per cent of the BE. Gross tax collection for the period had touched Rs 16,92,110 crore or 75 per cent of the BE, against 81 per cent in the same period of the previous fiscal. T The net tax revenue to the Centre was of the order of Rs 10,93,923 crore, or 74 per cent of BE, after deducting devolution to States (Rs 5,96,667 crore) and collections under national calamity and contingency duty (NCCD) to be transferred to the National Disaster Response Fund or NDRF ( Rs 1,520 crore). Total receipts include Net Tax Revenue to Centre (Rs 10,93,923 crore), Non Tax Revenue (Rs 1,71,755 crore) and Other Receipts (Rs 71,662 crore), the figures showed. New Delhi, May 9 : "Pappu" and "feku" are passe. The string of abuses and invective are not only pouring in on social media but have also grown vicious, especially after Prime Minister Narendra Modi set the cat among the pigeons by calling Rajiv Gandhi "Bhrashtachari No 1 (Corrupt Number 1)". Congress President Rahul Gandhi, who has faced flak for referring to the PM as "Chowkidar Chor Hai", is no stranger to insults as BJP leader Subramanian Swamy often refers to him as "Buddhu" in his tweets. But as the grand old party took offence at Modi's jibe targeting Rajiv Gandhi, the BJP supporters started insulting the Congress and its President under hashtags like #RajivGandhiChorHai, #CorruptionKingRajiv, and #RahulKaBaapChorHain. "Hello RAGA ur father was not only a chor but also a traitor who let Anderson to go back to USA and denied thousands of family, JUSTICE. But don't u worry KARMA is a very big thing and one day it will hit you and your family very hard," wrote one Twitter user. The Congress on Tuesday even moved the Supreme Court against Modi citing the "Bhrashtachari No 1" comment at a poll rally in Uttar Pradesh last week. Responding to Congress's charge of degrading the political discourse by spewing venom on its leaders, the Bhartiya Janata Party alleged that the Congress Party made its half-century in abusing PM Modi. If one Congress leader called the Prime Minister "Namard" (impotent), others even called him "terrorist" ir referred to him as "Muhammad bin Tughluq", the BJP alleged. Responding to Congress leader Ahmed Patel's tweet that abusing a martyred Prime Minster is the sign of ultimate cowardice, one Twitter user wrote: "Mulle...you all piddis can call the sitting PM " neech, ganja fukne wala, tugluq, aurangzeb, nali ka keera and d list goes on..but the PM cant say the truth about the former PM...#RahulKaBaapChorHain..BTW martyr is one who was killed in action not inaction..." "Social media discourse has been sub-par for years, and really deteriorated ahead of the current election," leading tech policy and media consultant Prasanto K. Roy told IANS. "As someone who tracked (wrote about) online violence in 2013-14, I see a sharp escalation of violence online and a deterioration in the discourse, aggravated by political parties, their information cells, and their arms-length models of propagation where there are layers of propagandist groups," he added. In this model, where there are layers of propagandist groups, each group is removed further from the previous, so there is plausible deniability by the political party concerned when something really vicious or despicable is outed, Roy explained. Kabul, May 9 : The death toll of a Taliban attack targeting an international aid group in the Afghan capital jumped to 14 on Thursday, with the militant group warning it would conduct more such strikes to avenge the civilian casualties of counter-insurgency military operations by Afghan and foreign forces. A group of Taliban attackers on Wednesday triggered a car bomb and then stormed the compound of the building housing the office of the charity, Counterpart International, in the Shahr-e-Naw area of Kabul. Afghan forces engaged the assailants in a nearly six-hour-long battle before all the attackers were gunned down. The government had initially said 10 people, including the five bombers, were killed in the clash. However, the Interior Ministry on Thursday said a total of 14 people had died in the gun battle, Efe news reported. "In addition to the five attackers, the death toll from the attack on Counterpart International increased to nine," Ministry spokesperson Nasrat Rahimi said. The dead included five security personnel, a security guard employed by Counterpart and three civilians who worked with Care International, another humanitarian aid group that has its office near the building that was attacked. "The offices are too close to each other. It was initially unclear whether the target was Care or Counterpart," the spokesperson said. The police said the militants had chosen a soft target to attack Counterpart office located in a relatively high security zone in the centre of Kabul. The US government-funded non-profit has been operating in Afghanistan since 2005 and is headquartered in the US city of Arlington, Virginia. The Taliban in a statement on their official webpage warned that there would be more strikes in future. The insurgent group said foreign nests like Counterpart played "key role" in military operations of the Afghan and foreign troops in which they kill civilians and that Wednesday attack was aimed to "avenge the brutal killing of hundreds of civilians". "This will not be the last attack. In the near future, they will pay an even higher price than this," the Taliban said in the statement. Thiruvananthapuram, May 9 : With a preliminary probe revealing bogus voting in the postal ballots of police officials in Kerala, the Congress party on Thursday demanded a judicial inquiry into the matter while the state police chief ordered a full fledged investigation by the Crime Branch. Kerala's Chief Electoral Officer Teeka Ram Meena, after going through the preliminary report filed by intelligence chief T. K. Vinodkumar, asked Kerala Police chief Loknath Behra to give directions for a detailed probe. "Prima facie what has come up is that there are issues in the postal ballots and the role of the Police Association also has to be probed," Meena told the media on Thursday. Meanwhile, Kerala Congress chief Mullapally Ramachandran alleged foul play with the knowledge of the top brass of the CPI-M and top police officials and said only a judicial probe would find out the truth and not one by the police. Kerala voted on April 23 to pick 20 Lok Sabha members. Following an audio clip of two police officials speaking on postal ballots surfacing in the media, Behra ordered a probe by the intelligence wing into allegations of irregularities by CPM-backed office-bearers of the Kerala Police Association. A four-page report submitted to Behra points at foul play and has recommended action against two police officials besides calling for a comprehensive probe. The association consists of 58,000 police officials and is led by those said to be close to the CPI-M. About five police officials have been identified and once the FIR to this effect is registered by the Crime Branch, these five officials would be suspended from service, according to sources in the know of things. Mumbai, May 9 : In a major embarrassment to the government, retired Admiral L. Ramdas on Thursday refuted Prime Minister Narendra Modis claim that the late Rajiv Gandhi and his family had enjoyed a family cruise on the INS Viraat. In a statement, Admiral Ramdas, who was Chief of Naval Staff then, said the late Prime Minister had gone on an official trip to the Lakshadweep Islands to chair a meeting of the Islands Development Authority (IDA) which is held alternatively between Andaman and Lakshadweep Islands. There were no parties held on INS Viraat or any of the other four warships accompanying the erstwhile aircraft carrier of the Indian Navy and no foreigners accompanied Rajiv Gandhi nor was current Congress President Rahul Gandhi present then, Admiral Ramdas said. New Delhi, May 9 : Amid reports of an acute shortage of the summer refreshment syrup Rooh Afza in India, its maker Hamdard Laboratories (India) on Thursday said that the syrup is now available in the market and can be bought from major retail stores and grocery outlets across the country. In a statement, Hamdard said: "Full capacity production and a well-planned distribution infrastructure are ensuring it is reaching all corners of the country." The statement, however, noted that the company was facing supply constraints of certain herbal ingredients which were not available due to a temporary shortage. The company further asked consumers not to be misled by "incorrect information being circulated online and in print about non-availability of Rooh Afza." Hammad Ahmed, the "Chief Mutawalli", or the CEO, at Hamdard Laboratories India said: "We at Hamdard continue our long tradition of providing health and wellness to our customers. As always, we strive to maintain and grow the relationships we have fostered with them." Earlier reports said that there is acute shortage of Rooh Afza in the country during the Muslim holy month of Ramzan, following which its Hamdard Pakistan countepart offered to supply Rooh Afza in India through the Wagah border. Male, May 9 : Actress Juhi Parmar, who is a single parent to a six-year-old girl, is off to the Maldives with family to celebrate Mother's Day on May 12. "While I am a mother and Samairra (daughter) will definitely make the day special for me, I also wanted to make the day extra special for my mom. Hence, we decided that our summer holiday should happen around Mother's Day so that Samairra, my mom and I can have not one day to celebrate, but an entire holiday dedicated to us," Juhi said in a statement. Speaking about the destination, the actress said: "Samairra wanted to go to a place surrounded by water. Hence, we zeroed in on Maldives. I went to Maldives about 15 years ago, but I know a lot has changed and we are really looking forward to spending some quality time together as we soak in the beauty of the beaches on the islands." New Delhi, May 9 : Apparently sensing that it may miss the majority mark in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections, the BJP is understood to have already devised a plan to tap new allies and independents to enable it to meet the potential shortfall. As part of the strategy, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is understood to have given the task of tapping new allies and independents to three senior leaders, sources aware of the developments say. Among the parties that the BJP is eyeing to bridge the gap, in case it falls short of a legislative majority, are the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) and the YSR Congress Party (YSRCP), the sources said. Some smaller regional parties are also likely to be approached for support, depending on the requirement, the sources said. The three BJP leaders will also get in touch with independents who win. This comes amid a sense within the BJP leadership that the existing National Democratic Alliance (NDA) may fall short of 272 seats, the majority mark required to form the government. BJP General Secretary Ram Madhav was the first leader to admit publicly, albeit in a veiled manner, that the BJP-led NDA could fall short of a majority in the 543-member Lok Sabha. "If we get 271 seats on our own, we will be very happy," Madhav said in an interview to Bloomberg last week. An indication that the BJP was cozying up to BJD was clear earlier this week when Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised its leader and Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik in the context of preparations for cyclone 'Fani'. "Naveen Babu has done great work," Modi said in presence of Patnaik after they jointly conducted an aerial survey of the cyclone-affected areas. While praising Patnaik's leadership, the Prime Minister said it was not a small thing to shift nearly 12 lakh people before the cyclone hit the state. The praise was in sharp contrast to Modi's attack on Patnaik and his government during the simultaneous elections to the Lok Sabha and state Assembly which concluded last month. In rallies that the Prime Minister addressed in the state, he targeted the BJD government and said that Patnaik should know that his exit was imminent. New Delhi, May 9 : The Supreme Court on Thursday dismissed the plea by families of those killed along with former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi by a LTTE suicide bomber at Tamil Nadu's Sriperumbudur on May 21, 1991, opposing the release of the seven remaining convicts in the case. A bench, headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi, said: "All aspects were covered in the earlier constitution bench verdict in the case and, therefore, nothing survives in the case. In view of the above, the writ petition stands disposed of." As an outcome of the apex court's decision, Tamil Nadu Governor Banwarilal Purohit will take a decision regarding freeing the seven convicts held guilty in the assassination of the former PM and 16 others. On September 9, 2018, the Tamil Nadu Cabinet passed an order recommending the release of the convicts but the issue has been pending before the Governor, who is yet to take any decision, as the petition of the victims' families was pending in the top court. When in 2014, the then Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa decided to free the convicts, who have already been in jail for 28 years after the apex court commuted their death sentences to life imprisonment, K. Ramasugandam, John Joseph, R. Mala, M. Samuvel Diraviyam, America V. Narayanan and S. Abbas filed a petition against it in the apex court. Senior advocates Gopal Sankaranarayanan and Prabu Ramasubramanium, representing A.G. Perarivalan, who is one of the seven convicts, brought the CJI's attention to the victims' petition pending in the top court since 2014. They also argued that none of the convicts were ever made parties in the case, despite that their lives were directly linked, and as a consequence, the petition has become infructuous. Agreeing with the argument, the court said: "Having considered the matter, we are of the view that no live issue remains for adjudication in view of the Constitution Bench judgement of this court." A five-judge Constitution bench, headed by then Chief Justice H.L. Dattu, had in 2015 upheld Centre's right to decide, on the remission of sentence of life convicts, specifically where the case was investigated by the Centre. It then allowed the three-judge bench to give the final word on the case. Sankaranarayanan contended the three-judge bench had already closed the case, and as a consequence, there is simply nothing left in the top court and the court agreed. Following these verdicts in 2015, the Tamil Nadu government had written to the Centre in March 2016 proposing remission of sentence of these convicts as it expected the Centre would be in harmony on this issue. But, in April 2018, the Centre refused to budge from its previous stand opposing the release, saying the crime was unparalleled in the history of the country. The apex court took an opposite stand to the Centre in September 2018, and asked the Tamil Nadu Governor to decide the fate of the convicts. New Delhi, May 9 : Congress President Rahul Gandhi will address election rallies in Himachal Pradesh and Chandigarh on Friday. Gandhi will address his first election rally in the hill state in Una town in support of the party's Hamirpur candidate Ram Lal Thakur, who is pitted against sitting Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Anurag Thakur, a three-time MP. Likewise, he would address a rally in Chandigarh in favour of former Union Minister Pawan Bansal, who is contesting against BJP MP Kirron Kher, who is seeking re-election. Voting for all four seats of Himachal Pradesh and the lone Chandigarh seat will take place on May 19. Seoul, May 9 : North Korea launched two short-range ballistic missiles on Thursday, South Korea's military said, just five days after the communist nation launched a barrage of projectiles into the East Sea. Pyongyang launched the projectiles at 4.29 p.m. and 4.49 p.m. (local time) towards the east, which had an estimated range of 420 km and 270 km respectively, before landing in the East Sea, also known as the Sea of Japan, South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) said in a statement. South Korea's presidential office expressed serious concern about the launches, saying they are "not helpful at all" to efforts to improve inter-Korean relations and ease military tensions on the peninsula, Yonhap news agency reported. The South Korea's military statement added that it had detected that one of the projectiles was launched from Sino-ri and the other was launched from Kusong, in northwest North Korea. Pyongyang's move adds yet another complication into its stalled negotiations with the US and peace talks with South Korea. The statement said the intelligence agencies of the US and South Korea were carrying out a detailed analysis of the launch. Shortly after the first firing, Japan said no North Korean projectile had landed in its territorial waters. Pyongyang latest weapons test shows the regime's harder stance after the deadlock in denuclearization dialogue following the failed February summit with the US in Hanoi. Talks between North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and US Preside Donald Trump ended abruptly after Pyongyang proposed a gradual disarmament of the Korean peninsula with the progressive lifting of international sanctions. The US, which is demanding a comprehensive and immediate disarmament, considered the proposition unacceptable. Since then, the regime has taken a harder stand towards the White House and Seoul. The launch of such missiles violates the sanctions imposed by the UN, which ban North Korea from testing any kind of ballistic missiles or related technology. North Korea had last week also launched several short-ranged missiles. The new development coincided with the visit of US' Special Representative for North Korea Stephen Biegun to Seoul to discuss the situation on the Korean peninsula. Experts said what Pyongyang launched on Thursday could have either been a Scud-type ballistic missile or a new type of ground-to-ground Iskander missile identical to that test-fired last week. Mumbai, May 9 : In a major embarrassment to the government, retired Admiral L. Ramdas on Thursday refuted Prime Minister Narendra Modi's claim that the late Rajiv Gandhi and his family had enjoyed a family cruise on the INS Viraat. In a detailed statement, Admiral Ramdas, who was Chief of Naval Staff then, said the then Prime Minister had gone on an official trip to the Lakshadweep Islands to chair a meeting of the Islands Development Authority (IDA) held alternatively between Andaman and Lakshadweep Islands. There were no parties held on INS Viraat or any of the other four warships accompanying the erstwhile aircraft carrier of the Indian Navy and no foreigners accompanied Rajiv Gandhi nor did current Congress President Rahul Gandhi accompany them then, said Admiral Ramdas, who is now settled in Raigad, adjoining Mumbai. He said that the statement was issued after collating responses from his former senior naval colleagues - Admiral Arun Prakash, Vice Admiral Vinod Pasricha and Vice Admiral Madanjit Singh - all of whom were serving in the Western Fleet during the events referred to (by Modi) nearly 32 years ago. At an election rally in Delhi on Wednesday, Modi referred to Rajiv Gandhi and charged him with using INS Viraat for a personal cruise lasting 10 days to the Lakshadweep Islands, with his family and his in-laws (Sonia Gandhi's family). Presumably, Modi's comments were based on a report in India Today magazine, he said, adding: "I would like to state unequivocally that this was not the case." He recounted the sequence of events of that period based on the replies by the retired naval top brass besides a naval officer who was then in-charge of the Lakshadweep Islands. In December 1987, Rajiv Gandhi boarded INS Viraat off Thiruvananthapuram en route to Lakshadweep Islands, after attending an event as the chief guest at the National Games Prize distribution in the Kerala capital, and was proceeding to the Lakshdweep Islands for the IDA meet. One of the officers stated that there were four other naval ships accompanying the INS Viraat for the Fleet Exercises and as the Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief based in Kochi he had boarded the aircraft carrier. "As the FoC-C, I hosted a dinner for them (Rajiv and his wife) on board INS Viraat. There were no other parties held on board INS Viraat, or for that matter, on any other ship in our fleet during that time," the officer said. However, the late Prime Minister and his wife visited some of the islands on short trips by helicopter to meet local officials and the local people. "The PM is authorized to travel along with his spouse by service aircraft on official duties..." Admiral Ramdas said, adding that Rahul Gandhi, (who would have been barely 17 then), never accompanied them. During Rajiv Gandhi's visit to Bangaram, on the last day, a few naval divers had been sent ashore for the Prime Minister's safety. No other ships had been diverted for the personal use of Gandhi family and only a small helicopter was stationed at Kavratti for medical emergency, said the statement. Another officer said the meetings and functions (above) were held in December 1987 and the Western Fleet had planned its naval exercises with the (INS Viraat) much in advance in the annual exercise programme to be conducted in that region in the Arabian Sea. "This was an opportunity for the officers and men to interact with their Prime Minister. He addressed the men, had 'Bada Khana' as per naval traditions," said an officer who later hosted a dinner for Rajiv Gandhi and produced a photograph to confirm it. New Delhi, May 9 : Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra has attacked Prime Minister Narendra Modi since beginning of her campaigning for the Lok Sabha elections but the attacks seem to have grown sharper and more hard-hitting since the BJP leader targeted her father as "Brashtachri Number 1". Over the past few days, Priyanka Gandhi has likened Modi to Kaurava ruler Duryodhana who was known for his arrogance and to a schoolboy who makes excuses for failures. On Thursday, at an election rally at Uttar Pradesh's Pratapgarh where Modi had made the remarks against her father, Priyanka Gandhi, in a blistering attack, slammed him as "a coward and weak PM". "Maine inse bada kayar aur kamzor pradhan mantra nahin dekha (I have not seen a more coward and weak Prime Minister than him," she said. Noting that political power does not come with big campaigns on television, she said: "It comes when one believes that the people are bigger than any position. A person should have the courage to listen to people's problems, solve their problems and listen to criticism. This Prime Minister neither listens to you nor responds to your questions." During her road shows in Delhi on Wednesday, she threw a challenge to Modi to contest the last two phases of the general elections on the issues of demonetisation, GST, women's safety and promises made to the youth. "His situation is like a schoolboy who never comes with his homework. When the teachers asks him, he says Nehruji took my paper away and hid it or Indira Gandhi made a paper boat out of it and put in the water," she said, in a sarcastic attack on Modi's remarks that Congress governments had done little for the country. Seeking to connect with the people in the road show in North East Delhi, Priyanka Gandhi said she was born in Delhi and knew every of its lanes, but Modi has been here for five years and does not know what people want. She said voters should give "appropriate answer" for all the "false promises" made by Modi in the last five years. At a rally in Ambala on Tuesday, she said BJP and Modi's "arrogance is like that of Duryodhana". "This country has never forgiven arrogance. Even Duryodhana had such arrogance, history is witness to it, Mahabharata is witness to it. When Lord Krishna tried to make him see sense, he wanted to take him hostage." Also citing lines of Hindi poet Ramdhari Singh Dinkar, she said he had written that when a man is headed towards destruction, the first thing he loses is his ability to distinguish between right and wrong. After Modi had attacked Congress President Rahul Gandhi through his father at Pratapgarh, Priyanka Gandhi took to Twitter to hit back a day later. "The Prime Minister who insults martyrs by seeking vote in the name of their sacrifices yesterday crossed his limits by insulting the sacrifice of a noble man who gave his life for the country. The people of Amethi will reply as Rajiv Gandhi sacrificed his life for them. Yes, Modiji, the country never forgives cheating," she said. Chennai, May 9 : Condemning the death of three patients in Government Rajaji Hospital in Madurai on Tuesday night allegedly due to disruption in the supply of oxygen owing to a power cut, an association of doctors has demanded an investigation into the incident. In a statement issued here, the Doctors' Association for Social Equality (DASE) demanded an honest probe into the incident saying that unscheduled power cuts across the state are affecting government hospitals and hence uninterrupted power supply connections should be provided there. DASE said operation theatres should be connected to separate generators and uninterrupted power supply systems. "The three patients who were in the ICU died of natural causes on Tuesday night. They had developed cardiac problems - common in the case of severe head injuries," the hospital's dean K. Vanitha told IANS over phone on Wednesday. "It is true that there was a power cut in Madurai yesterday (Tuesday) evening and the hospital's diesel power generator failed to kick in immediately. But all the three patients were on ventilators which were connected to batteries having power back-up of two hours," she said. Vanitha said that the ventilators and the battery power back-up were working well and hence the deaths were not due to disruption in the supply of oxygen or lack of power. "The battery connected to the ventilators was serviced and about eight to nine patients were connected to the ventilators at that point of time... the remaining patients are fine," she said. Relatives of the three patients had alleged that they died due to breathlessness owing to lack of oxygen supply. Asked about the three patients dying within a span of 10-15 minutes, Vanitha said that such things happen in the hospital as there are over 2,000 in-patients and over 10,000 people coming as out-patients daily. People suffering from serious head injuries from nearby districts are also brought in for treatment, she added. Vanitha also said that only three deaths occurred when the power supply was cut and news reports saying five patients lost their lives were wrong. Manila, May 9 : India participated with the navies of the Philippines, the US and Japan for their first joint naval exercise on Thursday in the disputed South China Sea waters where Beijing has allegedly occupied many disputed territories. Five vessels of the four participating countries navigated through international waters to Changi in east Singapore bordering the contested South China Sea. The vessels included Indian destroyer INS Kolkata and tanker INS Shakti, a guided missile destroyer from the US Pacific Fleet, Japanese aircraft carrier Izumo and the Philippines patrol vessel Andres Bonifacio. The Indian Navy tweeted about the drills and posted pictures of the warships that participated in the six-day group sail. The second phase of the naval drill, ASEAN-Plus Defense Meeting-Plus Combined Maritime Exercise, took place in Changi after the first round was conducted in Busan in South Korea, the Philippine Navy said in a statement cited by Efe news. This is the first time that the four countries have taken part in joint drills in these disputed waters. The six-day exercise began on May 3. The combined show of naval might comes at a moment of heightened tensions in the trade war between China and the US - the two world powers locked in a tussle for the commercial control of South China Sea, which serves as a passage for annual trade worth $3.5 trillion. "The group sail showed the active participation of the Philippine Navy as it strengthens its relationships with allies and partners in the Asia-Pacific region," said Roy Vincent Trinidad, the Navy captain who led the Philippine delegation. The region has witnessed the growing influence of Beijing in the waters of South China Sea where China started occupying a number of islets and shoals in 2012 and allegedly constructed artificial islands to appropriate the territories. China, the Philippines, Vietnam, Brunei, Malaysia and Taiwan dispute the sovereignty of islands in the South China Sea - an area which accounts for 12 per cent of global fishing and through which 30 per cent of the world's trade passes, apart from housing possible oil and gas reserve. The US and China both compete to extend influence over the Pacific. Washington is unwilling to let Beijing take over the area vital for its geo-strategic importance. To counter Chinese dominance, the US seeks to place 60 per cent of its naval fleet in the Pacific by 2020, for which it needs to reinforce its military alliance with the Philippines. Kochi, May 9 : Singapore-based Indian-origin artist and writer Shubigi Rao has been named the curator of the fifth edition of the Kochi-Muziris Biennale (KMB) that begins on December 12, 2020. The selection committee, which made the announcement on Thursday, unanimously decided to appoint Rao for her "exceptional acumen and inventive sensibilities" to curate the upcoming biennale, the Kochi Biennale Foundation (KBF) said in a statement. The appointment is in keeping with the tradition of an artist helming the contemporary art festival that debuted in 2012. Mumbai-born Rao, whose work featured in the fourth edition of the KMB (2018), is also a writer and her myriad interests include archaeology, neuroscience, libraries, archival systems, histories, literature, violence, acts of cultural genocide, anti-censorship, migratory patterns, ecology and natural history. The announcement came after lengthy deliberations within a search committee comprising of Amrita Jhaveri, Gayatri Sinha, Jitish Kallat, Sunita Choraria and Tasneem Mehta, besides KBF trustees Alex Kuruvilla, Bose Krishnamachari and V. Sunil. "Biennales are sometimes floating cities that are unmoored from their locality/regionality. "Kochi-Muziris Biennale is rooted in the intertwined histories and cultural multiplicities of Kochi, while providing a crucial platform for larger discourse of the critical, political, and social in artistic practices," said the compulsive archivist and visual artist known for her complex and layered installations. Krishnamachari, who is a co-founder of the 2010-instituted KBF, described Rao as a "brilliant and original" artist. Rao has participated in the Taipei Biennial, Pune Biennale, the Singapore Biennale and the Singapore Writers Festival. New Delhi, May 9 : The Supreme Court on Thursday said that it will meet, in July, the wife of a former IPS officer of the West Bengal cadre, who committed suicide and held Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee "directly responsible" for his death. Gaurav Dutt, a 1986 batch Indian Police Service (IPS) officer, was reportedly found with a slit wrist at his home on February 19. A bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi said it will interact with Sreyashi Dutt in July to find out why she wants to withdraw her plea for an independent inquiry into the death of her husband. She has sought to withdraw her petition, saying she was not in a proper mental condition while filing the case. Dutt, who had taken voluntary retirement last year, wrote in his suicide note that Banerjee was "directly responsible" for his suicide by constantly "victimising" him for the past 10 years. The state's ruling Trinamool Congress, however, rubbished the allegations. Colombo, May 9 : A brother of the suicide bomber who targeted St. Anthony's Church during the Easter attacks in Sri Lanka last month has been arrested, authorities said on Thursday. The Criminal Investigations Department (CID) informed a court that the suicide bomber's brother was arrested from Kochchikade, the Daily Mirror reported. The April 21 bombings at three churches, three luxury hotels and two other locations killed over 250 people and injured hundreds. The CID said that two others linked to the bombings have also been arrested. New York, May 9 : It is time to break up Facebook -- mired in several data scandals and privacy violation cases -- as Mark Zuckerberg has yielded "unchecked power" and influence "far beyond that of anyone else in the private sector or in government", the social network giant's Co-founder Chris Hughes has stressed. In an opinion piece in The New York Times on Thursday, Hughes said the government must hold Mark (Zuckerberg) accountable. "Mark's personal reputation and the reputation of Facebook have taken a nose-dive. "The company's mistakes - the sloppy privacy practices that dropped tens of millions of users' data into a political consulting firm's lap; the slow response to Russian agents, violent rhetoric and fake news; and the unbounded drive to capture ever more of our time and attention - dominate the headlines," wrote Hughes who, during his freshman year at Harvard University in 2002, was recruited by Zuckerberg for Facebook. "Mark is a good, kind person. But I'm angry that his focus on growth led him to sacrifice security and civility for clicks," Hughes argued. "I'm disappointed in myself and the early Facebook team for not thinking more about how the News Feed algorithm could change our culture, influence elections and empower nationalist leaders. "And I'm worried that Mark has surrounded himself with a team that reinforces his beliefs instead of challenging them," Hughes added. Embroiled in users' data scandals, Facebook is set to create new privacy positions within the company that would include a committee, and external evaluator and a chief compliance officer, an NYT report said earlier this month. Facebook has already kept aside $3 billion, anticipating a record fine coming from the US Federal Trade Commission (FTC) related to the Cambridge Analytica data scandal that involved 87 million users. "We are a nation with a tradition of reining in monopolies, no matter how well intentioned the leaders of these companies may be. Mark's power is unprecedented and un-American. "It is time to break up Facebook," added Hughes who currently works as Co-chairman of the Economic Security Project and senior adviser at the Roosevelt Institute. Realising his mistakes, Zuckerberg has said gaining users' trust is now his top agenda. "I know we don't exactly have the strongest reputation on privacy right now. I am committed to doing this well. "This is a fundamental shift in how we build products and run our company," the Facebook CEO said this month. The Facebook case is being looked at as a measure of the Donald Trump administration's willingness to regulate US tech companies. Mumbai, May 9 : In what seems to be suggesting the airline's revival remains a far-fetched possibility, Jet Airways' Whole Time Director Gaurang Shetty has decided to move on from the company as his resignation has been approved. Shetty has been an old-timer and held many senior positions in the company before being appointed as director on the Board. "Gaurang Shetty, Whole Time Director, vide his letter dated 23rd April 2019 submitted his resignation as a Whole Time Director of the Company and from his employment with the Company with immediate effect," Jet Airways said in a statement. Shetty's resignation has come at a time when the airline's lenders are making all-out attempt to revive the carrier and has started the stake sale process. Ever since Jet Airways ceased its operations entirely last month, there has been mass exodus from the company with hundreds of pilots, engineers and technicians joining rival aviation companies. Bhopal, May 9 : After 13 of the 29 Lok Sabha constituencies in Madhya Pradesh voted in the previous two phases, quite a few bigwigs are in the fray as eight more seats get ready to vote in the sixth phase of polling on May 12. Among the constituencies going to the polls on Sunday is Bhopal, which has grabbed a lot of attention after the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) fielded the controversial Sadhvi Pragya Singh Thakur, an accused in the 2008 Malegaon bomb blast case, against veteran Congress leader Digvijaya Singh. The other bigwigs in the fray include former Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia of the Congress from Guna and Union Minister Narendra Singh Tomar of the BJP from Morena. The five other seats set to vote on Sunday are Vidisha, Bhind, Gwalior, Sagar and Rajgarh. Barring Guna which was won by Scindia, all the other seats went to the BJP in 2014. Pragya Thakur, who joined the race for Bhopal almost a month after Digvijaya Singh's candidature was finalised, is no longer just a candidate, but has become an election issue. Many have raised questions over her candidature, wondering if someone who's out on bail in a terror case should be allowed to contest elections. Fielding Pragya Thakur is also an example of how the BJP is trying to redefine "majoritarian communalism" as nationalism under pressure from the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). Not a stranger to controversies, she was barred from campaigning for 72 hours by the Election Commission for her remarks about former Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad chief Hemant Karkare and for expressing pride about her role in the demolition of the Babri Masjid in 1992. Soon after her candidature was announced, Pragya Thakur claimed to have cursed Karkare, which, according to her, led to his death. Karkare was killed in the 2008 Mubai terror attack. Digvijaya Singh too has been drawing the poll panel's attention by involving sadhus in his election campaign. Days after Namdeo Tyagi alias Computer Baba performed a "hath yoga" for the senior Congress leader, the Election Commission took cognizance of the matter and initiated a probe to decide if Digvijay Singh has violated the model code of conduct. There was another controversy over a procession of 7,000 saffron clad sadhus in support of the Congress. There were also allegations that policemen were asked to wear saffron scarves. However, the Director General of Police (DGP) has denied the charge. Former state BJP chief Narendra Singh Tomar had to change his constituency from Gwalior to Morena due to the growing resentment against him in Gwalior, which sent him to the Lok Sabha in 2014. In Morena, Tomar is up against senior Congressman Ram Niwas Rawat, who has been fielded despite losing in the Assembly elections last year. Guna is one of the two seats in Madhya Pradesh which the Congress had won in 2014 (it later won the bypolls in Ratlam after the death of BJP MP Dileep Singh Bhuria in 2015). In 2014, Jyotiraditya Scindia defeated Jaibhan Singh Pawaiya of the BJP in Guna by over 1 lakh votes. While Scindia has been a consistent winner over the years, organisational responsibilities in Uttar Pradesh have kept him away from campaigning in full steam this time. He also incurred the wrath of Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) supremo Mayawati for poaching her candidate from Guna, Lokendra Singh, who dropped out of the contest at the last minute. Scindia is up against K.P. Yadav of the BJP. The battle in Vidisha has lost some of its sheen after two-time sitting BJP MP and External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj decided not to contest the Lok Sabha elections. The constituency had earlier sent Atal Bihari Vajpayee and ex-Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan to the Lok Sabha. A stronghold of the BJP which has retained it for 30 years, Vidisha will this time witness a contest between two debutants -- BJP's Ramakant Bhargava and Shailendra Singh of the Congress. In Gwalior, the BJP has fielded Vivek Shejwalkar in place of Narendra Singh Tomar, while the Congress has reposed faith in Ashok Singh and the contest is evenly poised. The BJP has replaced the sitting MPs in Sagar and Bhind while retaining its candidate in Rajgarh. Rajgarh is where Digvijaya Singh wanted to contest from and Congress supporters will have the added responsibility of winning this seat. The BJP candidate in Bhind, Sandhya Rai, has to vindicate the party's decision to nominate her in place of sitting MP Bhagirath Prasad, a former bureaucrat. Her rival Devashish Jarariya of the Congress is a newcomer who has little to lose. Sagar will witness a contest between two first timers -- Prabhu Singh Thakur of the Congress and Lakshminarain Yadav of the BJP. (The writer can be contacted at chandrakant.naidu@gmail.com) New Delhi, May 9 : Food service retailer McDonald's India has acquired Connaught Plaza Restaurants Pvt Ltd (CPRL) as the firm completed a settlement reached with former joint venture partner Vikram Bakshi. Thursday's development assumes significance as it ended a dispute with its joint venture partners with whom the firm had formed the CPRL, which managed the McDonald's outlets in North and East India with 165 outlets. In 2017, the food service retailer ended the franchise agreement with CPRL over non-payment of royalties which resulted in a legal battle. Lately, reports had emerged that the two partners were trying to reach an out-of-court settlement. Accordingly, the firm has decided to temporarily close McDonald's restaurants in North and East India to conduct a comprehensive assessment of operational protocols and employee training. "The existing managers and crew will continue to be employed during this temporary closure and will be actively involved in activities to re-open the restaurants." According to McDonald's, the transfer of ownership and management is effective immediately. Robert Hunghanfoo has been appointed Head of CPRL, now owned by MIPL and its affiliate. "During the transition, MIPL will be focused on two key areas - providing employees with clarity and confidence in their future at McDonald's and leveraging McDonald's global system expertise to fortify high operating standards for our local customers," the statement said. Bakshi had signed the JV as an equal equity partner with McDonald's Corp in 1995, established the first McDonald's restaurant in India in 1996. McDonald's remains committed to the opportunities in North and East India and intends to facilitate future growth by continuing to actively progress finding the right 'Developmental Licensee' (DL) for the region. As this process continues, CPRL will remain owned by MIPL and its affiliate. Jaipur, May 9 : Jemimah Rodrigues' magnificent unbeaten 77-run knock rocketed Supernovas to 142/3 against Velocity in the third and final contest of the Womens T20 Challenge 2019 at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium here on Thursday. Asked to bat first, Supernovas' opener Priya Punia (16 off 16) and Chamari Athapaththu (31 off 38) started on a cautious note as their scorecard read 13 for no loss in the first three overs. Shikha Pandey came up with the first breakthrough for Velocity as she dismissed Priya in the fifth over, leaving Supernovas at 29/1. Athapaththu and new batswoman Rodrigues then repaired the early damage, helping their side cross the 50-run mark in 8.1 overs. Amelia Kerr finally broke the well-settled partnership as she sent back Athapaththu in the 13th over when Supernovas were at 84 runs. Rodrigues was then joined by Sophie Devine (9 off 14) and they both added a crucial 50 runs for the third wicket even as the majority of the runs were scored by the former as she clobbered most of the opponents bowlers for some clean hits. Kerr dispatched Devine in the 19th over after which Supernovas added 10 runs to post a challenging total. For Velocity, Kerr scalped two wickets conceding 21 runs while Pandey managed to bag one for 17 runs. Brief scores: Supernovas 142/3 in 20 overs (Jemimah Rodrigues 77 not out, Chamari Athapaththu 31; Amelia Kerr 2/21) vs Velocity Mumbai, May 9 : In a bid to become a dominant player in the global toy retail industry, Mukesh Ambani-led Reliance Industries Limited (RIL) on Thursday announced it has acquired iconic British toy retailer Hamleys from Chinese firm C Banner International for an undisclosed sum. Of late, the toy company has struggled financially due to uncertainties owing to Brexit and economic slowdown in the UK. Reliance Brands, a subsidiary of Reliance Industries, has signed a definitive agreement with Hong Kong-listed firm C Banner International, to acquire 100 per cent shares of Hamleys, the company said in a statement. The deal will give the Indian acquirer complete control of Hamleys retail operations spread over 167 stores across 18 countries. Reliance, which already has the master franchise for Hamleys in India, will also get to own 88 stores across 29 cities that is currently operates. The company is named after William Hamley, who founded a toy shop called 'Noah's Ark' in London, in 1760. Ownership of the shop passed through the family and by 1837 when Hamley's grandsons operated the store, it had become famous. People belonging to the royalty and nobility were among its customers. "We have built a very significant and profitable business in toy retailing under the Hamleys brand in India. This worldwide acquisition places Reliance in the frontline of global retail," said Darshan Mehta, President and CEO of Reliance Brands. C Banner International acquired Hamleys in 2015 in a 100 million pound deal. New Delhi, May 9 : The Centre on Thursday filed another affidavit in the Supreme Court in the Rafale deal against the perjury plea of the petitioners seeking a review, claiming the mismatch between a certain portion of the judgement pronounced on December 14, 2018, about its submissions on the CAG report, is not a major error and that it does not affect the judgement. The Centre said the petitioners filed an application of perjury in an attempt to get the case reopened by implying that the court's order pronounced on December 14, 2018, was based on false statements made by the government before the court. On May 4, the government had filed another affidavit in the top court seeking to dismiss the application for a review of the deal, informing the court that monitoring of progress by the Prime Minister's Office of a government-to-government process "cannot be construed as interference or parallel negotiations." A bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi is slated to hear the Rafale review petition on Friday. The hearing will focus on the review of its December 14 verdict along with applications seeking perjury action against unknown officials and production of certain documents before the court. The government said the mismatch between certain paragraphs (Para 25) of the judgement and the submissions of the Centre (given in a sealed cover) in relation to CAG report was sought to be corrected by filing an application the very next day, December 15, 2018. "In any case, the mismatch does not in any manner, either directly or indirectly, affect the main judgement and it is not a substantial error as contended since the fact is that there is no fault found in the decision-making processor on pricing as concluded by the CAG in its report submitted subsequent to the judgment," said the Centre's affidavit. The Centre's response is on the application filed by former Union ministers Yashwant Sinha and Arun Shourie and activist lawyer Prashant Bhushan. It stated that allegations of making false statements and suppressing facts from the court were baseless and completely false. Terming the perjury plea as completely misconceived, the Centre pointed out that action against unknown public servants for allegedly misleading the court during the hearing was not correct, and that some "incomplete internal file notings" cannot be treated as a base for such proceedings. The government said its submissions before the court were based on official records. "The contention that the officials have made false statements while submitting information on 'decision making process', 'offsets' and 'pricing' pursuant to orders passed by this court is completely false, baseless and an attempt to intimidate government servants from performing their duty," said the affidavit. The affidavit also mentioned that Rafale was not a case in isolation and that sovereign guarantee was also done away with previously in defence agreements with Russia and the US. The Centre said the 'letter of comfort' was issued by the French government. The affidavit also mentioned that Rajeev Verma, Joint Secretary & Acquisition Manager (Air) who had expressed dissent did not proceed on leave, instead he had signed the note for Cabinet Committee on Security, and then proceeded on training abroad. Noida, May 9 : Hours after the Supreme Court dismissed a plea questioning Congress President Rahul Gandhi's citizenship on Thursday, Congress spokesperson Abhishek Manu Sighvi accused the BJP of falsehood and called Prime Minister Modi "master of disinformation". "Howsoever much the Master of disinformation (MODI), howsoever much The Bahut Jhooth Party (BJP) tries to spread disinformation, the people of India know the truth," Singhvi said while addressing a press conference. Singhvi claimed that the BJP's attempts to bring in the citizenship issue were the result of frustation after the ruling party had realised that it would be on the losing side after the results are announced. "They know that when a party revives a citizenship issue in the middle of April-May election, after 5 years in power, with not a shred of legal or factual finding against Rahul Gandhi, we know that you are only proving your own frustration, you have a very grave fear and you have certainty in your heart knowing your defeat," Singhvi said. Earlier the Supreme Court heard a petition moved by two activists seeking direction to the Home Ministry to decide the citizenship matter. The plea sought disqualification of Gandhi from contesting the Lok Sabha polls. The Home Ministry issued a notice to Gandhi on April 29 to clarify his nationality within a fortnight after Bharatiya Janata Party MP Subramanian Swamy alleged that the Congress chief was a British national. Swamy in his representation to the Home Ministry alleged that Gandhi served as one of the directors and a secretary of the British firm Backops Ltd, which is registered in the UK since 2003, with address 51 Southgate Street, Winchester, Hampshire. However, the Bench of Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and Justices Deepak Gupta and Sanjiv Khanna rejected the petition. Latest updates on Howdy Modi Houston Geneva, May 9 : The United Nations has appealed for all refugees and migrants to be evacuated from detention centres in conflict areas of Libyan capital Tripoli, where deadly fighting between rival militias flared last month. "The risks are simply unacceptable at this point," said Vincent Cochetel, UNHCR Special Envoy for the Central Mediterranean. "People inside detention centres in Tripoli are facing ever-increasing dangers, making it vital that we immediately move them out of harm's way." The UNHCR also voiced concern at the use of migrant detention centres for weapons and military equipment storage. "Utilising civilian infrastructure in this manner constitutes a violation of international humanitarian law and must be avoided at all costs," it said in a statement. The appeal for the evacuation of all refugees and migrants from Tripoli conflict zones comes after an air strike overnight on Tuesday hit a target less than 100 metres from the Tajoura detention centre, where over 500 people are being held. The UNHCR said two people were wounded in the air strike in which shrapnel hit the detention centre's roof. The attack prompted France's President Emmanuel Macron to call for a ceasefire in Tripoli, where militias loyal to the UN-backed government have been battling eastern warlord Khalifa Haftar's militia, which entered the city on April 5. At least 443 people have been killed and 2,110 wounded in the fighting in Tripoli since early April while nearly 60,000 people have fled their homes, according to the UN World Health Organisation. Some 3,460 refugees and migrants remain in detention centres near to conflict-affected areas, the UNHCR warned, urging countries to come forward with further offers of humanitarian corridors and relocation. Since the onset of the conflict in Tripoli, the UNHCR has relocated over 1,200 people from high-risk locations in the capital to safer areas - most recently in an airlift of 146 people to Italy on April 29, the UN agency said. New Delhi, May 10 : The Supreme Court on Thursday said it could possibly look into releasing illegal immigrants held in Assam detention centres, on the condition that they assure their availability for legal proceedings, as and when required. A bench of Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi, Justice Deepak Gupta and Justice Sanjiv Khanna asked advocate Prashant Bhushan, amicus curiae in the matter, to come up with suitable conditions imposed on these detenues post their release. Bhushan was asked to inform the court of these on Friday. The court said it needs to impose such conditions that people can be traced and their availability ensured before authorities concerned, while asking the Assam government to work on the overall framework of setting up tribunals and ensuring speedy trials for the illegal immigrants. Bhushan indicated at a possibility of monthly reporting at police stations concerned, and their guarantors assuring their presence whenever required. Exploring the options of what can be done if the detenues do not show up, the bench queried what action can be taken, besides forfeiture of the bond amount furnished by the guarantors. As Bhushan said that such detenues can be sent to jail, the bench asked him under which provision could this be done. Regarding the functioning of the foreigners tribunal, the court told Solicitor General Tushar Mehta to file an affidavit on the availability of retired judicial officers, bureaucrats and advocates with certain years of experience, who could be taken on board as presiding officers. Mehta also told the court that Gauhati High Court has been engaged in doubling the foreigners tribunals in the state from 100 to 200. Sibiu : , May 10 (IANS/AKI) The European Union should make greater efforts towards dialogue with Russia and should nurture its strategic relationship with the US, Italy's populist Premier Giuseppe Conte said at an informal summit on Thursday, according to sources in his office. Conte and other EU leaders met on Thursday in the Romanian city of Sibiu ahead of the European elections on May 22-26 and the selection of a new EU leadership team before the end of the year. New Delhi, May 10 : American news magazine Time has featured Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the cover page of its May 20 issue with a headline that may create controversy across the India amid the election season. The headline reads "India's Divider in Chief" that is and carries a caricature of the Prime Minister criticises Modi. This title pertains to the article in the magazine, written by Aatish Taseer with the headline "Can the World's Largest Democracy Endure Another Five Years of a Modi Government?" The write up compares former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru's idea of secularism with the prevailing social "stress" under Modi who "demonstrated no desire to foster brotherly feelings between Hindus and Muslims," the article read. Besides, the article it also recalled the Gujarat riots that allegedly claimed lives of scores of people. The whole article is based on the Hindu-Muslim relations and blames Modi for being pro-Hindu. It is not the first time when the magazine has come with critical commentary about Modi. In its published article in 2012, the magazine described him as a controversial, ambitious and a shrewd politician. The Melbourne suburb of Mount Waverley is host to the highest volume of auctions this weekend, with 10 homes set to go under the hammer, according to CoreLogic. Next busiest are Glen Waverley and Reservoir, also in Melbourne, with nine scheduled auctions each, along with the Sydney Suburb of Surry Hills. This week, the number of auctions scheduled to take place across the combined capital cities is expected to fall, with 1,144 currently being tracked by CoreLogic, down from the 1,479 auctions held last week at final results. Over the same week, last year a much higher 2,279 auctions took place across the capital cities. Both Melbourne and Sydney are expected to see a decrease in activity this week, with 500 homes scheduled for auction across Melbourne, while Sydney is set to host 431 auctions, decreasing on the 672 and 539 auctions held last week respectively. The smaller auction markets will also see a lower volume of homes auctioned week on week with the exception of Adelaide where more auctions are scheduled and Tasmania where there is no change. The busy auction weekend in Mount Waverley sees 7 Annesley Court (pictured in title) offered. The property going under the hammer is a five bedroom three bathroom house. It comes with an indicative price guide of $2,100,000 - $2,310,000. Another example of the breadth of auctions taking place in Mount Waverley is 1/22 Surrey Road (pictured above). The property going under the hammer is a four bedroom three bathroom townhouse. It comes with an indicative price guide of $1,300,000 - $1,420,000. A third property going to auction in Mount Waverley this week is 13 Biscayne Drive (pictured above). The property going under the hammer is a three bedroom one bathroom house. It comes with an indicative price guide of $1,250,000 - $1,350,000. EXPERT OBSERVER Dwelling value drops of -7.2% over the year to April 2019 highlights just how easy it can be to forget the diversity across property market performance as some regions continue to deliver solid growth conditions while others drag averages lower. Over the 12 months to April 2019, Adelaide, Hobart and Canberra were the only capital cities in which dwelling values havent fallen. Although value declines have been prevalent, there are certain SA2 regions which have significantly outperformed the broad capital city and equally many regions have significantly underperformed. Sydney: With dwelling values having fallen by -10.9% over the year to April 2019, only two SA2 regions, both of which are located in the Blue Mountains, have recorded annual growth. A further region of the Blue Mountains has recorded one of the most moderate declines along with two regions on the Northern Beaches. In terms of the Sydney regions with the greatest value declines, SA2 regions in the Inner South West are prevalent on the list. Melbourne: Over the 12 months to April 2019, dwelling values have reduced by 10.0%. Only two SA2 regions have recorded a rise in values and the five regions with the strongest annual change were located close to the city centre, demonstrating some strength in the established unit market. On the other hand, the five regions that have recorded the greatest annual fall were all located in Melbournes Inner East. Brisbane: Dwelling values are down marginally over the past year, having fallen by -1.9%. The top five SA2 regions with the strongest value growth over the past year are all located in the west of the city and are either within or towards Ipswich. The regions with the largest value falls are much more varied with some emphasis around areas with a mix of residential and industrial land uses featuring on the list. Adelaide: Over the past year, dwelling values have continued to rise (marginally) up 0.3% over the year. The strongest performing regions are all located either within the Central and Hills region or the North region of the city. The regions with the largest annual value falls are more mixed, with two situated in the Central and Hills region, two in the North and one in the South. Click to enlarge. Perth: Dwelling values have been falling since mid 2014 and have declined by a further -8.3% over the 12 months to April 2019. Given this it is no surprise only one SA2 region of the city has recorded an increase in values over the year. The regions with the most moderate declines were all located in either the North West or North East of the city. Conversely, the 5 regions with the largest value falls over the past year were all in either Perths South West or Mandurah highlighting a fairly distinct area in which the largest falls are occurring. Hobart: Values have increased by 3.8% over the past year which is the largest annual increase of all capital cities. The areas with the strongest value growth over the year are quite diverse both geographically and based on the value of dwellings however, 3 are situated in the North East. The list includes some of the most affordable and most expensive regions of the city. Four of the five regions with the most moderate value change over the year are located in the city centre and are some of the most expensive regions of the city. Darwin: Dwelling values have been falling since mid2015 and have declined by a further -7.1% over the past year. With such weak conditions only one region of the city (Wagaman) recorded an increase in values. The regions with the most moderate value declines were typically amongst the more expensive areas of the city. Conversely, the areas in which value falls were greatest were generally located close to the city centre however, highlighting the ongoing weakness across the inner city apartment sector. Canberra: Over the 12 months to April 2019, dwelling values in Canberra have risen by 2.5%. Four of the five regions with the greatest value increase over the past year were located in the northern area of the city around Belconnen and Gungahlin. Meanwhile three of the five weakest markets over the year were also in the north of the city while some of the weakest performers were amongst the most affordable regions of the city. With dwelling values falling broadly across the capital cities, there are still some precincts where values are continuing to trend higher, although the list of positive growth areas has shrunk over the past year. Click to enlarge. Looking to the data there is some suggestion that in individual cities certain geographic areas and value points are more likely to still be seeing values increase than others. CAMERON KUSHER is the head of research for the Australian branch of CoreLogic Kusher regularly posts on the CoreLogic website. The Labor Partys plan to restrict negative gearing on newly built properties could lure in spruikers into the market, according to Property Investment Professionals of Australia (PIPA). When you financially incentivize people to buy a particular product, spruikers are not far behind because they see an opportunity to make a lot of cash very quickly, said PIPA Chairman Peter Koulizos. The spruikers would endanger the financial lives of thousands of Australians, he said. Koulizos noted there is currently no legislation to protect consumers from dodgy operators pretending to be property investment experts. Koulizos said that "financially bribing" investors to purchase new property will create the ideal conditions for spruikers to flood the market. It will be like the pink batts fiasco all over again, which was another terrible Labor policy, he said. This time, it is an ill-conceived negative gearing proposal that is being rolled out too quickly and is likely to have financially catastrophic consequences for investors. "Were talking about people investing hundreds of thousands of dollars into properties that are likely to be over-priced and inferior in every way possible. Koulizos called for the urgent regulation of property investment advice is needed. If Labors absurd policy comes in, expect more investors to lose their life savings to corrupt charlatans who have no fear of the consequences because of the lack of regulation in the property investment advice space, he said. High Swartz 2019 Super Lawyers and Rising Stars Among the highlights are two inclusions on the 50 Top Female Lawyers in Pennsylvania list going to Melissa M. Boyd and Mary Cushing Doherty of the High Swartz Domestic Relations practice. The Super Lawyers list recognizes no more than 5 percent of attorneys in each state. The Super Lawyers Rising Stars list recognizes no more than 2.5 percent of attorneys in each state. To be eligible for inclusion in Rising Stars, a candidate must be either 40 years old or younger, or in practice for 10 years or less. High Swartz 2019 Super Lawyers and Rising Stars are listed below in alphabetical order. Melissa M. Boyd: Has been nominated to her 5th consecutive Super Lawyers list preceded by 6 Rising Star distinctions. On top of her streak, Missy has been nominated to 3 Super Lawyers Top Lists in Pennsylvania. Those accolades are 100 Top Lawyers in Pennsylvania, 100 Top Lawyers in Philadelphia and 50 Top Female Attorneys in Pennsylvania. Missy is a partner and family law attorney with High Swartz and advocates in various areas including divorce, prenuptial and postnuptial agreements, child custody and child support, equitable distribution, alimony, adoptions, protection from abuse and juvenile law. David J. Brooman: 2019 marks the return to the Super Lawyers list for David. This is his 10th selection. As a land development and litigation attorney, David J. Brooman has more than three decades experience in zoning and land use development, as well as environmental law. Kevin Cornish: Recently elected as a partner at High Swartz, Kevin receives his 8th Super Lawyers Rising Star selection. Kevin focuses his practice on commercial, civil, and contract & multi-state litigation support. His clients include individuals as well as local, regional, and national businesses up and down the east coast. Mary Cushing Doherty: This will be Marys 16th consecutive selection to the Super Lawyers list. Along with her distinction, shell join the 50 Top Female Lawyers in Pennsylvania list. With a distinguished record of professional and community service, Mary Cushing Doherty has more than 35 years of legal experience as a family law lawyer. She concentrates her practice on all aspects of marital dissolution and family law issues including divorce, child support, custody, spousal support and alimony, premarital agreement asset protection, complex property division, and is the chair of High Swartzs Family Law practice. Elizabeth Early: has been nominated to her third consecutive Rising Star selection. Her areas of specialization include divorce, custody, support, equitable distribution, pre and post-nuptial agreements, parenting coordination and abuse matters. Liz also serves as court-appointed counsel and guardian for minor children. Mark R. Fischer, Jr.: Mark has been nominated to his second consecutive Super Lawyer designation. He focuses his practice primarily on representing businesses in breach of contract, payment collection, construction defect, and consumer protection disputes throughout Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Gilbert P. High, Jr.: This will be Gils 14 section in a row. Gils impressive career is devoted primarily to the practice of municipal and Real Estate and Land Use Law. He regularly speaks on issues pertaining to municipal liability, particularly regarding the maintenance of the Urban Forest, a subject on which he has lectured nationally. Thomas E. Panzer: This is Toms first and much-deserved selection to the Super Lawyers list. Thomas E. Panzer, a workers compensation attorney, joined High Swartz in 2016 as a result of a merger with McNamara, Bolla & Panzer, Attorneys at Law, a firm for which he served as Managing Partner. Mr. Panzer is active in his community and is currently the Bucks County, Pennsylvania Treasurer. Thomas D. Rees: Elected to his 14th Super Lawyers list, Tom heads the firms Litigation and Employment Practice. He focuses his practice primarily on employment law and private education law. In the education area, Tom represents a number of independent schools in the Philadelphia area, handling employment, student discipline, contract, and governance matters. Joel D. Rosen: As High Swartzs Managing partner, Joel has been selected to the Super Lawyers list since 2017. With more than 30 years of legal experience as a corporate law attorney, Joel Rosens areas of practice include franchise law, business and commercial law, employment law, trademark/copyright law and commercial leasing. Brittany M. Yurchyk: High Swartz congratulates Brittanys first nomination to the Super Lawyers list as a Rising Star. Specializing in alternative dispute resolution, Brittany concentrates her family law practice on equitable distribution, child custody, child and spousal support, abuse and domestic relations. How were the High Swartz Super Lawyers selected to the list? Super Lawyers nominates the best attorneys using a unique selection process. Peer evaluations and nominations are combined with independent research. Nominees are evaluated on 12 indicators from professional achievement through peer nominations. Nominations are made on an annual, state-by-state basis. The Super Lawyers objective is to create a credible, comprehensive and diverse listing of outstanding attorneys on a national level that can be used as a resource for attorneys and consumers searching for legal counsel. As an aid to those selecting a lawyer, Super Lawyers only selects outstanding local lawyers who are able to be retained by the public. About High Swartz: High Swartz LLP is a general practice law firm serving clients in the Montgomery and Bucks counties, the Delaware Valley and throughout Pennsylvania from offices in Norristown and Doylestown. Established in 1914, High Swartz serves the needs of businesses, municipalities, government entities, nonprofits and individuals. With offices in Bucks County and Montgomery County, the full-service law firm provides comprehensive counsel and legal support to individuals and business entities of all sizes across a broad spectrum of industries throughout Pennsylvania and New Jersey. For more information, please visit highswartz.com. Attorney Daniel Gigiano When one is charged with a crime in Medina County, it can cause a lot of anxiety over what to expect. Each hearing usually has a very specific purpose that is handled quickly. This means many hearings do not involve long discussions over the incident that led to the criminal charges. When one is charged with a crime in Medina County, it can cause a lot of anxiety over what to expect. Each hearing usually has a very specific purpose that is handled quickly. This means many hearings do not involve long discussions over the incident that led to the criminal charges. A Medina County criminal defense attorney can help. Misdemeanors that do not start out in a Mayors court, are heard in the municipal courts. These courts are known as the Medina Municipal Court, 135 North Elmwood Ave., Medina, Ohio 44256, and the Wadsworth Municipal Court, 120 Maple Street, Wadsworth, Ohio 44281. Some felonies may start out in the municipal courts, while other start in the Medina County Court of Common Pleas, but the bulk of a felony case will be heard in the Medina County Court of Common Pleas, 93 Public Square, Medina, Ohio 44256. Juvenile cases are heard in juvenile court in the same location as the common pleas court. Cases commonly begin with the arraignment, which is where the accused is informed of the charges and potential penalties for the charges. Another early issue may be the bond hearing, where the judge sets the amount of money that must be posted for the accused to be released from jail. The municipal court has an informal pre-trial procedure, while the felony courts have a formal one. A pre-trial is a meeting between the criminal defense lawyer and the assistant prosecutor to plea bargain the case or discuss issues for trial. The judge may participate in this process. The trial may be to the court or by jury. Medina County courts usually order a pre-sentence investigation (PSI), which is an investigation conducted by the probation department to determine the facts of the case, and the social and criminal history of the defendant. This is followed by a sentencing hearing, which is a court hearing where the judge determines what punishment to hand out to the accused. A solid motion to suppress or acquittal can short-circuit this process in favor of the accused. Attorney Daniel Gigiano has written extensively on criminal law issues. Some of his articles just simply explain the basics. Some articles arose out of complicated issues that Attorney Daniel Gigiano faced on behalf of his clients, and he felt people would be interested to learn about issues that can arise in some criminal law cases. Visit his Criminal Defense page to learn more. These two articles are examples of the issues that often come up in criminal law cases: Ohio Jury Selection; and Police Limits On Searching Parked Cars. Attorney Gigiano has been practicing criminal law since 1993, which includes over 45 jury trials to a verdict in criminal cases. Attorney Daniel Gigiano has been helping people with their criminal defense needs in Medina County Courts since 2000. When he started his own firm two years later, he continued to represent clients who have been charged with crimes in Medina County. The Medina County criminal justice system procedures described in this article are based upon his experience in representing clients in Medina County. Attorney Gigianos office is located at 102 Main Street, Suite 200, Wadsworth, Ohio 44281 The firm can be reached at 330-336-3330. September Fleming, Woodcraft Director of Digital Marketing, holds the Outstanding Revenue Growth Award that Woodcraft received from Adlucent, its digital marketing partner. Adlucent brought Woodcraft new advertising opportunities to gain and attract new online and in-store customers. We tested them, and they ended up being very profitable. Woodcraft recently received an Outstanding Growth Award that reflects the success of its partnership with Adlucent, a digital marketing performance agency headquartered in Austin, Texas. The award was presented to September Fleming, Woodcraft Director of Digital Marketing, during the 2019 Adlucent Client Summit April 3-5 in Austin. Fleming and Kim Wallace, Marketplace Channels Administrator, represented Woodcraft at the summit. The Outstanding Growth Award is based on an increase in AdWords revenue Woodcraft has experienced so far in 2019, as well as an increase in new users and store traffic from our advertising efforts with Adlucent, Fleming said. Adlucent brought Woodcraft new advertising opportunities to gain and attract new online and in-store customers. We tested them, and they ended up being very profitable. Adlucent is a cutting edge digital retail agency with a track record for using its own search analytics platform and other digital strategies to help its customers create high-value advertising experiences that produce measurable results and sustain long-term growth. Woodcraft has a great partnership with Adlucent and is thrilled to accept the Outstanding Growth Award, President/Chief Executive Officer Jack Bigger said. About five years ago, Fleming said Woodcraft began working with Adlucent on the Google AdWords program that Woodcraft has been a part of for many years. AdWords is a pay-per-click (PPC) advertising platform in which the advertiser pays only when a viewer clicks on the advertisers ad. Adlucent works with Woodcraft to place AdWords advertising on Google, Bing and Yahoo in many advertising formats specially designed to reach Internet viewers store location ads, text ads, Product Listing Ads (PLAs), Dynamic Search Ads (DSAs), display ads, and retargeting ads, Fleming said. A few years later, Adlucent became more involved with Woodcrafts digital advertising efforts when Woodcraft began looking to attract new customers for both online and retail businesses through advertising on the social platforms, Fleming said. We started with Facebook/Instagram in October 2017, and then in June of 2018 we branched out into advertising on YouTube, Pinterest and Amazon Marketplace, Fleming said. Adlucent has placed social advertising on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and Pinterest in the form of ads, images, videos, and carousels and pins for products and store locations. Woodcraft provides Adlucent with product data, location data, ads and videos to be used in these digital advertising campaigns, Fleming explained. To learn more about Woodcraft, contact the store nearest you, visit woodcraft.com or call (800) 535-4482. To learn about Woodcraft franchise opportunities, visit woodcraftfranchise.com or email woodcraftfranchise@woodcraft.com. Mississippi borders Tennessee, where Advance Financial operates over 100 stores, so its not uncommon for customers to drive over the state line to access Advance Financials loan products and services. The addition of an online installment loan offers customers convenience and time savings. Award-winning financial services and fintech company Advance Financial is now offering online installment loans to residents in Mississippi. The loans, which can range from $25 to $2,500, can be paid back in conveniently scheduled, fixed-rate installments over a predetermined length of time no lump sum pay off required. Mississippi residents are the first to have access to online installment loans from Advance Financial. The company already offers its online FLEX loan, a flexible open line of credit, in 12 other states, including Alabama, California, Delaware, Idaho, Kansas, Missouri, North Dakota, South Carolina, Tennessee, Utah, Virginia and Wisconsin. Mississippi borders Tennessee, where Advance Financial operates over 100 stores, so its not uncommon for customers to drive over the state line to access Advance Financials loan products and services. The addition of an online installment loan offers customers convenience and time savings. We are excited to add Mississippi to the growing list of states where customers can easily access the money they need, whenever they need it, said Hodges. Were confident our new online installment loan is going to help families and individuals in Mississippi get the money they need help to be more financially stable and independent, all from the comfort of their own homes. The application and approval processes are entirely online and take only minutes from start to finish. Advance Financials customer care department is open 24/7/365 to answer questions and help customers with their applications. Once approved, customers with bank participation can access funds on the same or next business day. To learn more about Advance Financials loans and services available in your state, visit: https://www.af247.com/services. About Advance Financial Founded in 1996, Advance Financial is a leading fintech company based in Nashville, Tennessee. With online services in 13 states, Advance Financial provides fast lending decisions on loans and other financial services, 24/7/365. Recent recognition includes 2018 Inc. 5000 fastest-growing private companies (seven straight years); A+ rating by the Better Business Bureau; Nashvilles 4th fastest growing company (2018, Nashville Business Journal); Forbes Best Employers for New Graduates (2018); and, Indeed Top-Ranked Workplace for Compensation/Benefits (2018). For more, visit http://www.af247.com. ### Aeroflows mission is to improve patients quality of life, and partnering with two renowned New York State insurers allows us to further that mission with patients in one of Americas largest markets, said Shana Fox, Senior Strategic Partnerships Associate at Aeroflow Healthcare. Aeroflow Healthcare, an HME Excellence Award Winner and leading provider of durable medical equipment (DME), today announced partnerships with BlueCross BlueShield (BCBS) of Western New York and BlueShield of Northeastern New York. By partnering with these leading carriers, Aeroflows presence and ability to serve New York patients especially new mothers searching for breast pumps and maternity products with the medical equipment necessary to improve their quality of life is greatly expanded By partnering with these two major New York insurance networks which represent approximately 30% of the New York market combined Aeroflow will now be able to provide the states patients with high-quality medical equipment including but not limited to breast pumps, catheters, and continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) devices and supplies. Aeroflows mission is to improve patients quality of life, and partnering with two renowned New York State insurers allows us to further that mission with patients in one of Americas largest markets, said Shana Fox, Senior Strategic Partnerships Associate at Aeroflow Healthcare. We look forward to serving patients in western and northeastern New York with the exceptional medical supplies they need, at little or no cost to them through insurance. It is this support that, when coupled with the excellent customer service that we pride ourselves on. We are confident that we can create a lasting impact on our patients and their families. Aeroflow will continue joining more insurance networks in order to expand and diversify its position within the healthcare market, thereby increasing its patient base throughout the U.S. While this objective continues to spur the organizations business, it also supports Aeroflows mission of helping patients live with a variety of conditions by providing seamless access to advanced medical equipment via exceptional customer service, ultimately improving patient outcomes and quality of life. About Aeroflow Healthcare Aeroflow Healthcare was founded Asheville, NC in 2001 as a home oxygen provider, and has since grown to become one of the leading durable medical equipment providers nationwide. For three consecutive years, Aeroflow has been ranked on Inc. Magazines List of 5000 Fastest Growing Companies. In 2017, Aeroflow was also awarded the HME Excellence Award for Best Home Medical Equipment Provider and has been recognized as a business offering top-notch benefits to employees with the Great Place to Work Award. Aeroflow is an accredited Medicare and Medicaid provider and accepts most commercial insurance. To learn more about Aeroflow Healthcare and getting medical equipment through insurance, visit Aeroflowinc.com. Sharon Kleyne, host of the nationally syndicated radio program, The Sharon Kleyne Hour Power of Water, Global Climate Change and Your Health sponsored by Natures Tears EyeMist on VoiceAmerica, celebrated a new water-based air-conditioning system created by a research team from the National University of Singapore. Kleyne, whose water research and discoveries have earned her the respect of scientists, researchers, physicians and educators around the world, has for more than two decades studied and created supplements for dry eye disease and dehydrated skin due to over-evaporation. One of the common causes of dry eye disease and skin over-evaporation is exposure to artificial environments. The National University of Singapore team led by Associate Professor Ernest Chua from the Department of Mechanical Engineering at NUS Faculty of Engineering addresses this problem and then some. According to Kleyne, who is also the co-founder and research director at Bio-Logic Aqua Research Water Life Science, the new water-based air-conditioning system can cool the air to as low as 18 degrees Celsius without relying on energy-intensive compressors and environmentally damaging chemical refrigerants. Professor Chua and Kleyne believe that this new technology will replace on a wide scale the century-old air-cooling principle that is still used in most modern air-conditioners. The new air-conditioner can be adapted for us indoors or outside. It is also portable and can be customized for different weather conditions. But here is the feature that has Kleyne and other water research experts really excited. The eco-friendly new air-conditioner also generates potable drinking water while cooling ambient air. This is a major breakthrough, says Kleyne, in our efforts to create more usable drinking water. It is estimated that 12-to-15 liters of drinking water can be harvested by operating the air-conditioning system for one day. "Our cooling technology can be easily tailored for all types of weather conditions, from humid climate in the tropics to arid climate in the deserts. While it can be used for indoor living and commercial spaces, it can also be easily scaled up to provide air-conditioning for clusters of buildings in an energy-efficient manner. This novel technology is also highly suitable for confined spaces such as bomb shelters or bunkers, where removing moisture from the air is critical for human comfort, as well as for sustainable operation of delicate equipment in areas such as field hospitals, armoured personnel carriers, and operation decks of navy ships as well as aircrafts," explains Professor Chua. Kleyne, who often calls for more funding and new water research to solve the worlds water crisis notes that this project has been funded by the Building and Construction Authority and National Research Foundation of Singapore. This is the kind of support and effort we need in all countries, Kleyne says. We can save the planet and life on it if we work together. Kleyne points out that earth desperately needs new water technology to provide water to the more than 2 billion people that do not have access to clean, safe drinking water. The Singapores teams new air-conditioning unit is a model step in the right direction. The Alliance for Clean Energy Solutions (ACES), a coalition composed of diverse organizations dedicated to advancing clean, affordable and reliable energy for Massachusetts, announced its legislative priorities today. The priorities build off of previous successes in the Commonwealth to advance clean energy but also take a longer term perspective and embark into new areas where action to address pollution is vital. They will facilitate clean energy development, reduce climate pollution and its associated health impacts, protect consumers, enhance economic growth and encourage innovation. We have made great strides in advancing renewable energy generation since ACES was originally formed, and our priorities continue building on that foundation, said Deborah Donovan, Massachusetts Director of Acadia Center. The science on climate has painted a clearer picture of the urgency of the crisis and requires Massachusetts to establish clear long-term goals reflecting the latest data. We are calling upon the legislature to also address other areas where we have not made as much progress, like modernizing our grid and lowering emissions from transportation while also ensuring the needs of low income, working class communities and communities of color are made more central. The priorities look to establish long-term greenhouse gas emissions (GHGs) targets and to continue the success Massachusetts has had in building renewable energy generation by improving and expanding the states procurement mechanisms. They also aim to make substantial improvements to the regions electrical infrastructure by modernizing the grid to accommodate renewables and other clean resources like energy storage. Lastly and significantly for the coalition, they look beyond electric power to the GHG impacts of transportation. The ACES policy priorities are critical to the economic, energy and environmental future of the Commonwealth, said Peter Rothstein, President of NECEC. Our diverse coalition looks forward to working with the legislature to build upon Massachusetts success deploying cost-effective clean energy solutions to reduce carbon emissions, while driving innovation in clean tech and creating jobs. The ACES legislative priorities include: Transportation Climate Policy and Equitable Clean Transportation Investment Implement the regional approach to transportation climate policy under discussion (Transportation and Climate Initiative) in a timely manner, with proceeds to be invested to reduce transportation emissions, provide access to clean transportation for all, including communities with the least access to clean, reliable mobility options, through an inclusive process in the Commonwealth. A Modern, Clean, and Resilient Grid Provide for a future with widespread local energy resources, including solar, storage, and demand response, with improvements to the timeliness and fairness of interconnection processes, smarter electricity rates, improved net metering, enhanced access for low and moderate income (LMI) customers, and increased stakeholder input. Stronger LongTerm Climate Protection Policies Expand the greenhouse gas reduction requirements of the Global Warming Solutions Act (GWSA) to achieve net zero emissions by 2050 or sooner, commensurate with the latest science, by using planning, public policy, and funding to reach interim targetsmaximizing energy efficiency, utilizing 100% clean or renewable energy, deploying energy storage and other innovative clean technologies, implementing natural climate solutions, and expanding carbon pricing to all sectors. Improved and Expanded Renewable Energy Procurement Mechanisms Authorize additional state and regional procurements for offshore wind and other RPS Class I renewable energy resources, guard against conflicts of interest in project evaluation and selection, require climate benefits for all selected projects, enable new procurement mechanisms and funding sources to empower businesses and communities, and ensure that environmental impacts of electricity generation and transmission are appropriately avoided, minimized, and mitigated. Also, the ACES legislative priorities include support for specific strategies related to energy efficiency, clean and efficient heating, and electric vehicles. Massachusetts has many great policies on the books, but more is needed to address transportation emissions and to meet our climate obligations, said Eugenia Gibbons, Policy Director at Green Energy Consumers Alliance. With the right mix of new policies, we can further reduce emissions and save more money by avoiding imported fossil fuels. "Investing in clean energy solutions is an integral step in hitting climate goals and stimulating economic growth," said Jesse Mermell, President of The Alliance for Business Leadership. "Already, the clean energy sector has created over 100,000 jobs and contributed billions of dollars to the Commonwealth's economy. Advancing the ACES priorities can reaffirm the state's commitment to transitioning to a cleaner future and send signals that Massachusetts is a competitive place in which to work and do business." To learn more about ACES, its members and its policy priorities, visit: https://www.acesma.net/ About the Alliance for Clean Energy Solutions (ACES) The Alliance for Clean Energy Solutions (ACES) is a coalition of coalitions comprised of business groups, clean energy companies, environmental organizations, labor, health, and consumer advocates dedicated to advancing clean energy for Massachusetts. ACES is committed to ensuring that those charged with shaping Massachusetts energy policies have the most rigorous, current data on the benefits and costs of clean energy. Our goal is to ensure that the Commonwealth can attain a cost-effective, reliable and diverse energy supply to power its businesses, communities and households, which will reduce our reliance on fossil fuels, create a stable and prosperous business environment and meet the Commonwealths greenhouse gas emissions requirements. For more information: acesma.net. The Identify the Signs campaign and Baby Navigator collaboration promises to help parents recognize the signs of autism early and to facilitate early intervention The Identify the Signs campaign, a public education initiative from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) that seeks to educate the public about the early warning signs of communication disorders and the benefits of early intervention, today welcomes Baby Navigator as its newest campaign partner. Baby Navigator is a comprehensive online resource that provides a variety of tools for parents and professionals to track a childs social communication development as well as identify the early signs of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Its unique features include the following: Photo look books that show specific milestones in children month to month from 9 to 16 months A video library containing clips of children demonstrating typical social behaviors from 7 to 24 months of age, along with clips of children exhibiting early signs of a communication delay or ASD An enhanced screening tool for communication delay starting at 9 months and for ASD in children as young as 12 months called the Social Communication (SoCo) CheckUp. Parents and professionals can use this online screening tool to facilitate early identification and intervention. The Baby Navigator resources were developed by the creators of the popular Autism Navigator and FIRST WORDS Project websites, led by Amy Wetherby, PhD, CCC-SLP, an ASHA Fellow and the director of the Autism Institute at Florida State Universitys College of Medicine. Dr. Wetherby discusses the websites resources as well as the importance of recognizing and acting on the early signs of autism in a new ASHA podcast. The Baby Navigator team is thrilled to partner with the Identify the Signs campaign, said Wetherby. Often, audiologists and speech-language pathologists are the first professionals beyond pediatricians to interact with a child suspected of having a potential social communication disorder or autism spectrum disorder. We hope our collaboration furthers the care and guidance they provide as well as empowers families to screen their child earlier and manage diagnosis and treatment in an informed and positive manner. Since 2013, ASHAs Identify the Signs campaign has educated the public on the early warning signs of speech, language, and hearing disorders. ASHA membersaudiologists and speech-language pathologistsare experts in communication development and disorders. Given that social communication problems are one of two defining characteristics of autismin addition to restrictive, repetitive behaviorsspeech-language pathologists are key professionals in autism diagnosis and treatment. As a speech-language pathologist, I know just how much ASHA professionals offer to children with autism spectrum disorder, said Shari Robertson, PhD, CCC-SLP, ASHA 2019 president. From helping a child find their voicewhether through verbal speech or use of augmentative and alternative communicationto building their social skills, improving their academic performance, and even helping them accept new foods, treatment by speech-language pathologists makes a lifetime of difference. The Identify the Signs campaign and Baby Navigator collaboration promises to help parents recognize the signs of autism early and to facilitate early intervention. For more information, visit http://IdentifytheSigns.org and http://www.babynavigator.com. About the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) ASHA is the national professional, scientific, and credentialing association for 204,000 members and affiliates who are audiologists; speech-language pathologists; speech, language, and hearing scientists; audiology and speech-language pathology support personnel; and students. Audiologists specialize in preventing and assessing hearing and balance disorders as well as providing audiologic treatment, including hearing aids. Speech-language pathologists identify, assess, and treat speech and language problems, including swallowing disorders. Joseph A. Quinn, Jr., Esq. Hourigan, Kluger & Quinn PC is pleased to announce Attorney Joseph A. Quinn, Jr. has been named to the 2019 Super Lawyers Top 100 Lawyers in Pennsylvania List. Attorney Quinn has also been named to the 2019 Super Lawyers List for Medical Malpractice Law. Super Lawyers, part of Thomson Reuters, is a rating service of outstanding lawyers from more than 70 practice areas who have attained a high degree of peer recognition and professional achievement. The annual selections are made using a patented multiphase process that includes a statewide survey of lawyers, an independent research evaluation of candidates and peer reviews by practice area. The result is a credible, comprehensive and diverse listing of exceptional attorneys. Attorney Joseph A. Quinn, Jr. has been named a Pennsylvania Super Lawyer every year since the program began. He also has been listed in every edition of "The Best Lawyers in America," and has been recognized by the national publication as "Personal Injury Lawyer of the Year" for NEPA and the Lehigh Valley. He is one of the most experienced and highly credentialed trial attorneys in Pennsylvania. As Senior Litigation Principal, his firm, Hourigan, Kluger & Quinn (HKQ Law) has been named 2019 Best Law Firm by US News & World Report. Attorney Quinn is a Fellow of the American College of Trial Lawyers, a Diplomat of the American Board of Trial Advocates, Past President of the Pennsylvania Association for Justice and a Past Member of the Board of Governors of the American Association for Justice. Attorney Joseph A. Quinn, Jr. is one of only three Pennsylvania trial lawyers admitted to the Inner Circle of Advocates, a group limited to the top 100 personal injury lawyers in the United States, and one of only 500 attorneys worldwide chosen to be a Fellow of the International Academy of Trial Lawyers. Attorney Quinn has authored numerous professional articles and has co-authored a book on the Pennsylvania No-Fault Motor Vehicle Insurance Act. He has presented at multiple professional seminars, including the Pennsylvania Bar Institute, the State Conference of Trial Judges, and the Association of Trial Lawyers of America. Additionally, five other Attorneys at HKQ Law have been recognized on Super Lawyers 2019 Lists: As one of the founders of Hourigan, Kluger & Quinn, I am honored to be part of this notable distinction for so many years and proud of all of our attorneys at the firm. Hard work, dedication, compassion, decades of experience, education and research, preparation and exemplary skills in the courtroom contribute to the results we obtain for our clients, says Attorney Joseph A. Quinn, Jr. The Super Lawyers lists are published nationwide in Super Lawyers Magazines and in leading city and regional magazines and newspapers across the country. Super Lawyers Magazines also feature editorial profiles of attorneys who embody excellence in their practice of law. For more information about Super Lawyers, go to SuperLawyers.com. For additional information about HKQ Law, go to http://www.HKQLaw.com. About Hourigan, Kluger & Quinn, PC Hourigan, Kluger & Quinn is considered one of the top civil litigation and commercial law firms in Northeastern Pennsylvania. Nine attorneys at HKQ Law were recently named to the 2019 Best Lawyers List and has been designated a Tier 1 Best Law Firm for personal injury, medical malpractice litigation, labor law and corporate law in Northeastern Pennsylvania and the Lehigh Valley. The firms Personal Injury Team, led by Attorney Joe Quinn, has won some of the largest verdicts and settlements in the region's history on behalf of injured clients. The firm was also recently recognized for one of the top 20 Verdicts in Pennsylvania. The Personal Injury Team focuses on a wide array of personal injury claims and civil litigation, including medical malpractice, auto and truck accidents, aviation accidents, unsafe vehicles, dangerous or defective products, workplace injuries (worker's compensation), construction site accidents, claim denials by insurance companies, dangerous drugs, defective children's products, nursing home abuse and neglect, and falls due to unsafe conditions (slip and fall). Attorney Joseph A. Quinn is one of only 100 attorneys in the United States (and one of only three in Pennsylvania) honored with membership in the Inner Circle of Trial Advocates, and one of only 500 attorneys worldwide chosen to be a Fellow of the International Academy of Trial Lawyers. He has been a Pennsylvania Super Lawyer every year since the program began and has been listed in The Best Lawyers in America every year since the publication was established in 1987. Best Lawyers also named him top personal injury attorney for Northeastern Pennsylvania and the Lehigh Valley. Since the inception of the firm, the Commercial / Corporate Team led by Attorney Allan Kluger has provided comprehensive, integrated legal services to many of Northeastern and Eastern Pennsylvania's largest corporations, businesses, banks, non-profits and institutions, handling matters involving labor and employment, wills, trusts and estate planning, estate administration, elder law, commercial transactions, residential and commercial real estate, zoning, land use and development, telecommunications, mediations and arbitrations, commercial litigation, title insurance, business planning and business succession, corporate/business structuring, employment discrimination law for employers, banking, creditors rights, finance, lender liability defense, covenants not to compete, construction law, mergers and acquisitions and other business matters. As a certified workers compensation specialist, the focus is always on the clients and fighting for their rights as injured workers. Super Lawyers has chosen Attorney Michael A. ODonnell for inclusion in the Pennsylvania Rising Star Lawyer list for 2019. This is the 3rd year Attorney ODonnell has been recognized with this prestigious designation. Rising Star Lawyers, a Thomson Reuters business, is a rating service of outstanding lawyers from more than 70 practice areas who have attained a high degree of peer recognition and professional achievement and either 40 years old or younger or in practice 10 years or less. The annual selections are made using a multi-phased process that includes a statewide survey of lawyers, an independent research evaluation of candidates and peer reviews by practice areas. Only 5 percent of attorneys in Pennsylvania are selected for inclusion as Rising Star Lawyers. For more information on Super Lawyers, visit http://www.superlawyers.com. I am excited to be recognized by my peers in the legal community as a leader in the area of workers compensation, said Michael ODonnell. As a certified workers compensation specialist, the focus is always on the clients and fighting for their rights as injured workers. A frequent contributor to legal education programs, Attorney ODonnell has received the Martindale-Hubbell AV Preeminent Rating 2016-2019. About ODonnell Law Offices ODonnell Law Offices is a Northeastern Pennsylvania personal injury law firm which has successfully represented all types of personal injury claims, ranging from auto and trucking accidents to product liability claims, to medical malpractice and wrongful death claims. The firm is located in Kingston, Pennsylvania, and its superb team of attorneys provides top quality legal representation and unparalleled service to its clients and the community. ODonnell Law has been representing clients for more than two decades, and in that time has received numerous awards and recognitions. Visit http://www.odonnell-law.com or call 570.821.5717 for more information on the firm. Omar Subat, Esq. Tinnelly Law Group, PC, one of the top California HOA law firms, is proud to announce the addition of attorney Omar Subat, Esq. to the firm. Mr. Subat received his BA in Political Science from the University of California, Santa Barbara. Later, he earned his Juris Doctorate from St. Johns University School of Law. Mr. Subat attended St. Johns University School of Law with a St. Thomas More full-tuition scholarship. While in law school, Mr. Subat was an Executive Editor for the Journal of Civil Rights and Economic Development and was named a Winner of the Journals Best Legal Notes Competition for Who has Standing? Why the Supreme Courts Holding in Hollingsworth v. Perry Empowers Politicians at the Expense of Citizens. While obtaining his law degree, Mr. Subat served as a judicial intern for the Honorable Judge Geoffrey Glass in the Orange County Superior Court. Prior to joining the California HOA law firm, Mr. Subat worked as a litigator representing several Fortune 500 companies in handling premises liability, negligence, and product liability cases. He has handled every aspect of the defense of such matters from pre-litigation resolutions through trial. Mr. Subat also has experience litigating real estate and HOA disputes. He prides himself on his ability to obtain quick resolutions when possible, but also being able to provide effective, aggressive representation of our clients interests when required. "Omar is another strong addition to our growing team of dynamic, talented HOA lawyers, says Managing Shareholder, Steven J. Tinnelly. His strong corporate defense background and experience litigating HOA disputes have already proven valuable. We are thrilled to have him on the team." About Tinnelly Law Group Tinnelly Law Group, PC is recognized by the community association industry as one of the top California HOA law firms. Since the firms founding in 1989, 100% of its efforts have been dedicated to representing HOAs and providing them with sensible and cost-effective solutions to their diverse legal problems. It counsels hundreds of HOAs throughout California through legal issues related to corporate governance, enforcement, maintenance, insurance, litigation and transactional matters. Tinnelly Law Group recently launched FindHOALaw, a robust resource for HOA law and legal information. Its substantial volume of content and easy-to-use interface help users better understand the unique body of law governing HOAs in California. Tinnelly Law Group also provides its clients with access to comprehensive assessment collection services through the use of its affiliate, Alterra Assessment Recovery. Tinnelly Law Group has offices in Orange County, San Diego, Riverside County, Los Angeles, and the San Francisco Bay Area. Member CAI and CACM. Sidney L. Gold & Associates, P.C. is proud to announce that four of their talented lawyers have been honored by Super Lawyers for 2019. Principal Shareholder Sidney L. Gold, along with Senior Associate Traci M. Greenberg, were both recognized as Super Lawyers. Associates William Rieser and Jamie L. Ford were selected as Rising Stars. Through a multiphase process, Super Lawyers creates a comprehensive list of outstanding lawyers across all practice areas of law. This is done annually on a state-by-state basis through peer evaluations and independent research. This is the sixteenth year that Sidney L. Gold has been honored by Super Lawyers. In addition, he has received a 10.0 Avvo Rating, is in the Nations Top One Percent of lawyers from the National Association of Distinguished Counsel, and is a three-time member of The American Society of Legal Advocates. Mr. Gold has extensive experience in employment and civil rights litigation and has stood as lead counsel in numerous high-profile cases on a national level. Traci M. Greenberg is a Senior Associate at Sidney L. Gold & Associates, P.C. She has been selected to Super Lawyers every year since 2017. She focuses her practice on employment law, including discrimination, wrongful termination and wage and hour claims, and has written numerous articles that received legal acclaim. This is the first year that Associate William Rieser has been honored as a Rising Star. He graduated from Villanova University School of Law in 2011, and was the recipient of the ABA/BNA Award for Excellence in the Study of Labor and Employment Law. Jamie L. Ford has been recognized by Super Lawyers as a Rising Star since 2018 as an Associate at Sidney L. Gold & Associates, P.C. She earned her law degree in 2015 from Villanova University School of Law, where she was awarded the Deans Merit Scholarship. These extraordinary lawyers are part of a team of exceptional attorneys at Sidney L. Gold & Associates, P.C. They have been recognized as a preeminent law firm in the field of employment law by the Martindale-Hubbell Bar Register. No matter what the employment issue, they are more than willing to help. For more information, visit their website or call 215-569-1999 for a free consultation. The firm has offices in Philadelphia and Pennsauken, New Jersey to represent clients throughout South Jersey and Southeastern Pennsylvania. Connect with us on Facebook | Twitter | LinkedIn Service to our customer base is not only one of our core values, but also something in which we take great pride and will continue to invest in as we pursue rapid expansion. Bellefield Systems, the providers of the fastest path to revenue through its time entry solutions, has hired Tara Quinn, as Account Manager to support its rapidly expanding client base. Quinn will oversee client relations at Bellefield, working closely with the Client Services Department and Vice President of Sales, Matt Yezovich. Tara brings a considerable amount of value to the organization through her role as Account Manager, and we are thrilled to have her on board to deepen our relationship with our customer base, stated Gabriela Isturiz, President. Service to our customer base is not only one of our core values, but also something in which we take great pride and will continue to invest in as we pursue rapid expansion, Isturiz continued. I am truly honored for the opportunity to work with the team at Bellefield during this period of growth and look forward to helping our customers remove barriers to time entry and billing compliance, stated Quinn. Bellefield is thrilled to have Tara Quinn on board and looks forward to a successful future. About Bellefield Systems & iTimekeep Bellefield provides the fastest path to revenue by removing barriers to time entry for attorneys and law firms. Through the iTimekeep platform, Bellefield brings better timekeeping to any law firm or professional services firm by increasing attorney engagement, providing real-time compliance with outside counsel guidelines and enabling firms to manage their time entry policies. In an area that was long disregarded and accepted as a cost of doing business, Bellefields innovations are bringing about efficiencies that allow firms to achieve the best timecard inventory, leading to less rejections, increased compliance and maximum client satisfaction. Bellefield was founded with one simple (yet powerful) purpose: create better timekeepers. iTimekeep ranks #1 as the most adopted Mobile (and anywhere) Time Entry solution for attorneys for six consecutive years. Bellefields founding members include the former founders of eBillingHub (now Thomson Reuters ), Gabriela Isturiz and Daniel Garcia and software veteran, John Kuntz. Bellefield Systems is an independent, privately held company headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. To learn more, visit http://www.bellefield.com. On Monday May 6th, Fr8 Network Inc - a revolutionary blockchain-based logistics technology company - entered into a partnership with PayMachine, a leading provider of enterprise payroll services. The goal of the partnership is to integrate PayMachines on-demand payroll services to improve the experience of shippers and truckers operating on Fr8 Networks marketplace. Currently, truckers who choose to factor their invoices in the United States, a process whereby the trucker will sell the payment obligation to a 3rd party financier, will expect to lose from 2-5% of the invoices value. In exchange, the trucker will be paid in a much shorter time window. 90% of the US trucking market is small owner-operators who suffer cash-flow issues when customers pay 30-90 days after the shipment is complete. Sloane Brakeville CEO of Fr8 Network adds, Most truckers have come to expect that working with digital-first brokerages means they get paid fast. PayMachine helps us take that to the next level and pay truckers immediately upon delivery. By using the Fr8 Network Marketplace, trucking companies will be exposed to tools that record the major transactions in a shipment. As designed, receipts of bills of lading, digital proofs of delivery, and real-time IoT data from trucks are available to financiers on the Fr8 Marketplace. This rich data set allows PayMachine and other financiers to make confident decisions on the likelihood of the invoice being paid on time - or if an exception will occur and delay the settlement. Proof of delivery technologies and the transparency of smart contracts within the Fr8 Network provide the assurances required for PayMachine to pay Truckers upon delivery, said David Howitt, Head of Business Development at PayMachine. The Fr8 Network and PayMachine partnership will have an instant impact on the trucking industry. ABOUT PAYMACHINE PayMachine is leveraging technology to accelerate payday. They are bringing user-friendly automation, financial capital, and smart contract data access to unblock the payday process and provide earned income to ALL of your workforce, on-demand. ABOUT FR8 NETWORK Fr8 Network is transforming global trade through blockchain-enable solutions. Lead by CEO Sloane Brakeville, an Ex-IBM Blockchain Labs Founding Member, the unique design of the Fr8 Marketplace gives Fr8 Networks applications and 3rd party marketplace members unprecedented data access. The first application on the marketplace is live. Visit Fr8 Networks website to learn how you can make sure youre only working with the worlds best carriers. BrainStation hosts "Data for Social Good" panel discussions at three campuses. From the fight against climate change to preventing life-threatening illnesses, data has become an essential tool, and with these panel events, were looking to put the spotlight on organizations and data scientists who are leading the charge, and to better understand the role data can play BrainStation, the global leader in digital skills training for companies and individuals, will be hosting panel discussions at its New York, Toronto, and Vancouver campuses, with all proceeds going to non-profit organizations. Entitled Data for Social Good: Organizations with an Impact, the panel discussions will focus on the rise of data science, and the role it is playing in societal change. Every day, 2.5 quintillion bytes of data are created, and more and more companies are now leveraging this information to make data-driven business decisions, and to tackle important global issues, said Jason Field, BrainStations Founder and CEO. From the fight against climate change to preventing life-threatening illnesses, data has become an essential tool, and with these panel events, were looking to put the spotlight on organizations and data scientists who are leading the charge, and to better understand the role data can play, Field said. The Data for Social Good: Organizations with an Impact panel discussions will be held on the following nights. Please click on the links for ticket information: All proceeds for these events will be donated to Pencils of Promise, a for-purpose organization that works across the globe to build schools and create programs around the goal of education for all. About BrainStation The Digital Learning Company BrainStation is the global leader in digital skills training and workforce transformation, with diploma programs, certificate courses, events, and corporate training offered online and at state-of-the-art campuses in New York, Toronto, Chicago, Vancouver, and Boston. Established in 2012, BrainStation works with over 350 instructors from the most innovative companies, developing cutting-edge digital education that has empowered more than 60,000 professionals and some of the largest corporations in the world, including Amazon, Tesla, Apple, Google, and Microsoft, among others. -30- For additional information, please contact: Sal Ciolfi Senior Manager, Content and Communications +1 (917) 594-5426 sciolfi@brainstation.io Pac Biz employee Kristine Tabunyag and her daughter Icabbi together in the training facilities of the Pac Biz Dumaguete office. Gavan Walsh, CEO of iCabbi, commented, were an ambitious company working on behalf of taxi fleets to help them grow... the fact that this has happened because Kristine works with our dispatch system every day... is a huge compliment to us. Were delighted to welcome Baby iCabbi into the world. When you work in an office, youre bound to certain software to do your job. Some give users a pleasant experience and help make their job more efficient, others make them question the managements decision making as well as their future employment with that company. However, when you do have a great experience with software or a brand it can take on a life of its own. In this example, from Dumaguete, Philippines, its through the naming of a baby after an Irish taxi dispatch company, iCabbi, which is helping taxi fleets grow around the world. Gavan Walsh, CEO of iCabbi, commented, were an ambitious company working on behalf of taxi fleets to help them grow and prosper in the new transport age. We want to put taxi companies at the very centre of mobility. I cant say it was ever our ambition to have a human namesake, but maybe it should have been! The fact that this has happened because Kristine works with our dispatch system every day, finds it easy to use and loves our brand is a huge compliment to us. Were delighted to welcome Baby iCabbi into the world and into our iCabbi family of employees and customers around the world. iCabbi has been powering Pac Biz taxi fleet clients for over 3 years, and is a useful tool for all departments of Pac Biz, allowing us to get valuable data monitoring our staff. So its no surprise that over 225,000 hours a year are spent on the iCabbi platform by Pac Biz staff, and that number keeps growing, shared Pac Biz co-founder Eric Mulvin. After an early 2019 visit to a new office Pac Biz was opening, co-founders Eric and Bob Grunstin discovered one of their agents, Kristine Tabunyag had named her baby after this taxi software. Kristine knows the name iCabbi well. She has spent over 3,100 hours on the platform from her time at Pac Biz, providing driver support in addition to helping customers calling in. Im enjoying my job as well. Although, she noted that most of the drivers are hard headed but its bearable, an honest assessment most in the transportation industry would agree with. Mulvin was happy to share details on what moms like Kristine get while working at Pac Biz, We offer 60 days paid time off to new moms; 30 of the days are paid by the government, but we have to file to get reimbursed. After Pac Biz HR prompted her for paperwork 4 months after the birth, Kristine had to make a choice on a name. I was already at the hospital to register her. Her name was supposed to be Olivia, said Kristine, thats the time I decided, Ill just use Icabbi instead of Olivia because Icabbi is just so rare! Unique names are not new to Kristines kids. Her first one is Krad Firstty and the second one is Princess Krizyan, added Kristine, but it hasnt come without some joking in the office. They are always making fun, if the next time i get pregnant, then the next babys name should be RTC. Oh my God, RTC, she shared with a laugh, about another tool used within iCabbi. Gavan Walsh spoke about the excitement in iCabbis Dublin HQ when staff first found about out about Baby iCabbi, commenting everyone wanted to see a picture of her and immediate plans were put in place to send Baby iCabbi a welcome gift. Shell certainly never be short of items with her name on them now!. Kristine added that there are more taxi call center agents pregnant and there could be more Icabbi babies, so her daughter wouldnt be alone. With future plans of Pac Biz and iCabbi, there will be a lot more employees taking taxi calls on iCabbi from Pac Biz. Pac Biz has been supporting clients on iCabbi with our call center since 2016 and were really excited to be working together closely to provide more solutions for taxi fleets to grow and benefit from each others success shared Mulvin. iCabbi is launching the iCabbi Marketplace to provide taxi fleets with smart tools and software. iCabbi has developed a sophisticated API for these solutions to integrate with and is hand-picking partners who can offer high-quality add-on value to their customers. Head of iCabbi Marketplace, Philip McCartney, commented: Our Marketplace is about open-sourced innovation that compliments what were doing here at iCabbi and fast tracks the development of the taxi industry. Were hand-selecting partners who meet our high standards, only the best will do. Pac Biz is one of the proud, exclusive companies offering its services directly to iCabbi clients around the world. About Pac Biz: Pac Biz is a 24/7 quality focused call center ran from Phoenix, Arizona but operated out of Dumaguete, Philippines. With over 180 staff and growing, Pac Biz provides support for transportation companies, ecommerce companies and home service companies. For a flat monthly rate, you can get phone support and each agent/client gets 5 points of support: dedicated account manager, a quality team, 24/7 supervisors/IT, a training team, amazing company culture and active US ownership to build long term relationships with our clients. About iCabbi: iCabbi powers over 750,000 taxi rides around the world every day with its cloud-based taxi dispatch software. The company was set up in Dublin, Ireland, 9 years ago and has since expanded to include offices in the UK and North America. iCabbis vision is to put taxi companies at the centre of the new age of mobility. ### This Page Is Under Construction - Coming Soon! Why am I seeing this 'Under Construction' page? The new award-winning CAMO Drive stand- up tool speeds installation, fastening Edge screws, EdgeClips/EdgeXClips and face screws up to 5X faster than other systems. "Deck Safety Month is the perfect time for our launch of the CAMO Deck Responsibly tagline. Deck Responsibly is a natural extension of what we strive to achieve for both the deck installers and the homeowner." - W. Scott Baker, CEO of National Nail May is a busy time for deck builders as homeowners look forward to a summer of kicking back on their gorgeous new deck. May is also the North American Deck & Railing Associations (NADRA) Deck Safety Month and National Nails CAMO, the most innovative deck fastening systems brand, supports NADRA by encouraging contractors, and homeowners alike, to Deck Responsibly when both installing and enjoying their decks. This includes looking out for worker safety as well as creating decks that are safer for homeowners. Deck Safety Month is the perfect time for our launch of the CAMO Deck Responsibly tagline. Deck Responsibly is a natural extension of what we strive to achieve for both the deck installers and the homeowner. Each CAMO product is designed to save any installer time, effort, and costs with versatile, durable products that create a safe, easy installation experience and a safer deck for homeowners, said W. Scott Baker, CEO of National Nail. As a leader in deck fastening systems, CAMO has several tips for homeowners to keep decks safe: Check for any deck board movement that may attribute to instability. Examine the gap between ledger and joista widened gap may indicate that bolts need tightening. Look for raised or corroded fasteners which may compromise the integrity of the deck structurally and on the surface, present a trip hazard or danger to bare feet. Many homeowners desire that fastener-free deck look that they experience with their indoor hardwood products. And CAMO does not disappoint. From its unique CAMO Edge Fastening system for square boards, which drives proprietary screws into the edge of the board, to the new CAMO EdgeClips for grooved boards, homeowners receive the look and a safer enjoyment experience with fasteners removed from the surface. To speed installation, the new award-winning CAMO Drive stand- up tool can fasten Edge screws, EdgeClips/EdgeXClips and face screws up to 5X faster than traditional fastening methods. And it attaches to the contractors own drill. The CAMO Drive also solves another Deck Responsibly safety aspect: wear and tear on the contractors body. It gets contractors off their knees, removing the stress from ankles, knees, hips and backs so they can enjoy time with their families. And of course, the speedier installations inherent in all CAMO products reduces labor, time and ultimately, jobsite fatigue. CAMO Deck Responsibly. To learn more about how to Deck Responsibly with new CAMO Drive and EdgeClip products, visit http://www.camofasteners.com. About CAMO CAMO exists to provide the best deck fastening installation experience. Bar None. Whether you install decks for a living, get suckered into building them with a buddy, or maybe just once in your lifetime, CAMO products are designed with you in mind; hard-working folks who take pride in their work, value their wallet, and respect brands who respect them. From fasteners to fastening guides and tools, all CAMO products are engineered so your work looks good and performs as you expect it should. CAMO Deck Responsibly. For more information or to locate a dealer, visit camofasteners.com or call 1-800-968-6245. Be sure to "Like" @camofasteners on Facebook and @camodeckfasteners on Instagram. Search CAMO Fasteners on YouTube to find our channel or check us out on Pinterest. Cavit Collection, makers of Americas #1 selling Italian wine brand*, is excited to celebrate National Pinot Grigio Day on May 17th with special limited-time Pinot Grigio cannolis. Cavit is partnering with Kannoli Kraze from May 17-June 16 to offer custom-made desserts to mark the holiday. Wine lovers can choose from three different delicious twists on the classic Italian pastry, a traditional full-size or mini cannoli, a cannoli cake cup and a cannoli pop, all infused with Cavits famous Pinot Grigio. The Pinot Grigio-infused cannoli, cannoli cake cup and cannoli pop can be purchased at Kannoli Krazes Long Island store for $5.00 each and the cannoli mini is $2.00 each. A six pack of cannoli pops or cannoli cake cups can be purchased at http://www.1800kannoli.com for $35.00 plus shipping. Cavit became a pioneer in the 1970s with the introduction of Pinot Grigio, a then little-known white wine from Trentino, Italy, to the United States. Today, Cavit Pinot Grigio is the brands signature variety and the leading Italian wine in America*. Consumers can look forward to enjoying light refreshing notes of pear, apple, almonds and citrus. Cavit Pinot Grigio can also be enjoyed as a splendid aperitif and with dishes such as risottos, veal and fresh seafood. In addition to celebrating National Pinot Grigio Day, Cavit Collection Wines recently launched Cavit Limited Edition Rose minis and Cavit Sweet Red, both imported by leading U.S. wine & spirits importer Palm Bay International. About Cavit: The Cavit winery is based in northern Italys Trentino, a picturesque landscape of mountains, lakes, apple orchards and medieval castles. Cavit swept onto the radar of American wine lovers in the 1970s as an early pioneer of a then little-known white wine called Pinot Grigio. The Cavit Collection is comprised of a range of high-quality, approachable and food-friendly wines including: Pinot Noir, Riesling, Oak Zero Chardonnay, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Moscato, Cavit Select Red Blend, Limited-Edition Rose, Prosecco, Sweet Red and Pinot Grigio Americas #1 Italian wine*. For more information, please visit http://www.cavit.com or follow at http://www.facebook.com/cavitwines, http://www.instagram.com/cavitwines, http://www.twitter.com/cavitwines and http://www.pinterest.com/cavitwines. *Nielsen XAOC+Liquor, 9L EQ 52 wks ending 3/23/19 About Palm Bay International: Palm Bay International, a dynamic family-owned company, offers one of the nations most comprehensive portfolios of imported wines and spirits from key appellations/origins around the globe, as well as a growing roster of domestic wines. Among Palm Bays most valued assets is its remarkable network of long-term partnerships with the foremost wholesale companies in all 50 states, as well as the Caribbean, Mexico and Central America. With the crucial collaboration of these partners, Palm Bays portfolio is able to meet the needs of every level of the industry, from independent restaurants and retail stores, to chain accounts, supermarkets, hotels, airlines, cruise ships, duty-free accounts and U.S. military bases. This impressive diversity of brands, accounts and relationships positions Palm Bay as a major source of fine wines and spirits and an industry leader in the U.S. marketplace. For more visit: http://www.palmbay.com. About Kannoli Kraze: For more visit: http://www.1800kannoli.com. For further press inquiries, please contact: Katie Barr Cornish/Melissa Mesulam Eleven Six PR T: (646) 325-5894/646-228-3253 http://elevensixpr.com In effort to provide the public with exceptional recommendations, Super Lawyers compiles an annual list of the most respected and successful attorneys in their chosen practice areas. The lawyers are peer nominated and undergo a rigorous process of peer review and independent research based on 12 indicators of success. Selections are made every year on a state-by-state basis within each practice area. Jeffrey S. Gross has been recognized by Super Lawyers every year since 2004. He is certified by the Pennsylvania Bar Associations Section on Workers Compensation Law as a Specialist in Workers Compensation as authorized by the Pennsylvania Supreme Court. For three consecutive years, Mr. Gross was elected to the Philadelphia Bar Associations Board of Governors. He was also the co-chair of the Philadelphia Bar Associations Workers Compensation Section. As an expert in his field, he is responsible for more than a dozen articles in legal magazines and has delivered lectures on multiple Workers Compensation topics. Philadelphia Magazine ranked him among the regions top 100 attorneys in 2006 and 2007. Mr. Gross has been admitted to practice before the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania and the U.S. District Courts for the Eastern and Western Districts of Pennsylvania. This is the fifth consecutive year Patrick W. Kenny has been selected to Super Lawyers. Before that, he was named a Rising Star by Super Lawyers four years in a row. Mr. Kenny started his education at Hamilton College, where he studied Government and Communications. He continued his education at New York Law School, where he graduated, cum laude, in 2003. Mr. Kenny is also certified as a Specialist in Workers Compensation Law by the Pennsylvania Bar Associations Section on Workers Compensation Law as authorized by the Pennsylvania Supreme Court. Mr. Kenny has bar admissions in New York, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey. He has also served as co-chair of the Executive Committee of Workers Compensation Section of the Philadelphia Bar Association in 2012, was the Philadelphia Bar Associations Workers Compensation Section Liaison to the Young Lawyers Division in 2008 and 2010, and was the Philadelphia Bar Associations Small Firm/Solo Practitioner Section Liaison to the Young Lawyers Division in 2009. Gross & Kenny, LLP was founded to assist those who are injured on the job and are treated unfairly by employers or insurance companies. They understand that many employees who undergo serious physical ailments while at work are undermined and neglected by corporations. The lawyers of Gross & Kenny, LLP know how to negotiate on your behalf to obtain the full compensation you deserve. For more information regarding legal matters, visit https://www.philaworkerscomp.com/ or call 267-589-0090 for a free consultation. With offices conveniently located in Center City Philadelphia, the firm represents clients throughout Southeastern Pennsy Chairman and CEO Tom Crowley was presented an award in recognition of Crowley Maritime Corp.'s support for 30 years by Will Jenkins, board chairman of the Coast Guard Foundation. For all of this and so much more, we would like to offer Tom and the entire Crowley Maritime organization this well-deserved recognition and our deepest thanks. The Coast Guard Foundation, a non-profit organization committed to the education and welfare of all Coast Guard members and their families, recently recognized Chairman and CEO Tom Crowley Jr. and Crowley Maritime Corporation for more than 30 years of support at its 25th Tribute to the Coast Guard Seventh District event in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. The event, originally scheduled for late January but postponed due to the partial government shutdown, was held April 18. The rescheduled date did nothing to dampen spirits, as the function was one of the most successful in recent memory with more than 400 people in the crowded ballroom at the Pier Sixty-Six Hotel and Marina. Approximately $380,000 was raised that evening to support Coast Guard Foundation programs and initiatives that provide education, morale and relief support for Coast Guard members and families. In addition to supporting events like this one in Fort Lauderdale, Crowley has contributed to our scholarship program, Fallen Heroes Fund and morale programs all across the country, said Will Jenkins, Coast Guard Foundation board chairman. For all of this and so much more, we would like to offer Tom and the entire Crowley Maritime organization this well-deserved recognition and our deepest thanks. In honoring Crowley, the foundation noted the companys large-scale response to Puerto Rico after its devastation by Hurricane Maria. Within two hours of the Coast Guard reopening the islands main port in San Juan, a Crowley vessel arrived and began discharging critical commercial and relief cargoes. Over the next 182 days, Crowley unloaded more than 200 vessels with cargo consisting of nearly 40,000 commercial loads and 8,000 Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) loads, including food, water and humanitarian supplies as well as thousands of electrical transformers and poles; and 10 million miles of power line. That mission was accomplished by 300 Puerto Rico employees, themselves reeling from the hurricane. The men and women of our entire company and I are honored to receive this recognition from the Foundation, Crowley said. We also appreciated the organizations constant support of the men and women serving our nation in the U.S. Coast Guard. The U.S. Merchant Marine can depend on the Coast Guard every day, and we applaud the great support by the Foundation to those who ensure safety and security on our nations waters and ports." Crowley has led the company since 1994, succeeding as CEO his father and grandfather in leadership dating back to the companys founding in 1892. The company is a U.S.-based, $2 billion-a-year marine solutions, energy and logistics services company with operations around the world. At the event, the Foundation also presented an award to the Rescue Coordination Center Miami and an aircrew from Air Station Clearwater. The brave individuals were recognized for their rescue of 28 fishermen who were forced to abandon their 131-foot commercial fishing vessel when it became fully engulfed in a destructive onboard fire. About Crowley Jacksonville-based Crowley Holdings Inc., a holding company of the 127-year-old Crowley Maritime Corporation, is a privately held family and employee-owned company that provides marine solutions, energy and logistics services in domestic and international markets. Crowley operates under four business units: Crowley Logistics, a singular ocean liner and logistics supply chain division; Crowley Shipping, which encompasses ownership, operations and management of conventional and dual fuel (LNG) vessels, including tankers, container ships, multipurpose, tugboats and barges; Crowley Fuels, a fuel transportation, distribution and sales division that also provides liquefied natural gas (LNG) and related services; and Crowley Solutions, which focuses on government services, including vessel management for government agencies, as well as engineering, project management, naval architecture through its subsidiary Jensen Maritime, and marine salvage and emergency response through its 50 percent ownership in Ardent Global. Additional information about Crowley, its subsidiaries and business units may be found at http://www.crowley.com. About The Coast Guard Foundation Since 1969, the Coast Guard Foundation has been committed to inspiring leadership, education and a proud legacy of service to our nation by supporting the men and women of the United States Coast Guard. The Foundation provides college scholarships to enlisted members, their spouses and their children, scholarships and support for families of Coast Guard members lost in the line of duty, and support for morale programs, including funding recreation, exercise and family-oriented facilities. The Coast Guard Foundation is headquartered in Stonington, Conn., where it maintains a staff of 15, with regional offices in the New York City area, St. Petersburg, Fla., and San Francisco, Calif. To learn more about the Coast Guard Foundation or to help support its work, please visit http://www.coastguardfoundation.org. Keene Family of Companies is proud and excited to welcome Byron Smith as President of Continental Products and Rio Flooring Systems. As a visionary leader and strategist, Byron Smith has a proven record of driving industry disruption and growth, while increasing profits and building stakeholder value. Smith is known for expanding companies organically and through strategic acquisitions. Working domestically and internationally, Smith excels at crafting and implementing process improvements that turn around underperforming operations; therefore, capitalizing on new markets with innovative products and building high performance teams. Most recently, Smith served as President of a large coatings corporation, growing the company substantially. Prior to this, Smith founded ICS Building Technologies and acquired the Garland Flooring Company in Cleveland, subsequently setting up sales offices and production in China and Japan. The University of Liverpool in the United Kingdom awarded Smith a Master of Business Administration. He held several Board positions across a variety of diverse countries. Smiths extensive business management and development background make him a crucial asset to Continentals team. Continental Products is a paint and coatings manufacturing company in Euclid, OH. Continental Products offers a wide range of product finishes and specialty paints for the industrial, greenhouse, and wood coatings markets. Rio Flooring Systems offers a wide range of the best fluid-applied concrete floor and wall coatings available today including epoxy and urethane flooring systems, cementitious urethane and epoxy mortar systems, polyaspartic urethane systems methylmethacrylate (MMA) systems and wall systems tailored specifically for your facility needs. For further information call 216-531-0710, email at info(at)continentalprod(dot)com, or visit website continentalprod.com. Cornerstone.IT Earns Prevalent Business Partner Badge The Legal Vendor Network is a great way for law firms to help build better third-party risk management maturity, and it all starts with vendors like Cornerstone.IT taking their security posture seriously. Past News Releases RSS Cornerstone Information Technologies, LLC (Cornerstone.IT) is pleased to announce that the company has earned a Prevalent Business Partner Badge in recognition of the companys excellence in protecting its own data, and by extension, securing the sensitive data of its client Law Firms. Cornerstone.IT is honored to be a member of the Prevalent Vendor Network, says co-founder of the IT Business Solutions and Managed Services Provider, Jim Moreo. Being part of the Prevalent community further demonstrates Cornerstones commitment to the legal industry. We understand that keeping our network secure is paramount to keeping our clients networks secure. A law firm is a prime target for a cyberattack due to the volume of sensitive client information under its protection. The Legal Vendor Network is a great way for law firms to help build better third-party risk management maturity, and it all starts with vendors like Cornerstone.IT taking their security posture seriously, said Brad Hibbert, Chief Strategy Officer at Prevalent. Acquiring a Prevalent Business Partner badge requires a vendors dedication to protecting sensitive client data from cyberthreats. Prevalents Legal Vendor Network (LVN) focuses specifically on protecting law firms and their clients from third-party risk, ensuring that vendor risks are properly scrutinized. Through a secure cloud portal, vendors submit security controls information in the form of a standard risk assessment questionnaire and any necessary supplemental evidence. Law firms can then review vendor due diligence, accept findings, or plan remediation efforts. Cornerstone Information Technologies, LLC (Cornerstone.IT) is a full-service IT business solution and managed services provider that specializes in providing services to legal, accounting, finance, media, and retail industries. Founded in 2003 by brothers Jim Moreo and Tommy Moreo, PhD, Cornerstone.IT has offices in New York City, Philadelphia, Washington D.C., and Los Angeles. Our elite team of engineers keeps companies IT systems secure, productive and profitable with expert designs, careful implementation, and minimum disruption. Post-implementation, Cornerstone.IT monitors, maintains, and supports systems, saving our clients time, money, and stress. To learn more about how Cornerstone can improve your firms IT, go to Cornerstone.IT. About Prevalent Founded in 2004, Prevalent helps enterprises manage risk in third-party business relationships. Prevalent delivers the industrys only purpose-built, unified platform that integrates a powerful combination of automated assessments, continuous monitoring, and evidence sharing for collaboration between enterprises and vendors. No other product on the market combines all three components, providing the best solution for a highly-functioning, effective third-party risk program. To learn more, please visit prevalent.net. Cornerstone Cares For Your Technology, So You Can Care For Your Business. OneSource Virtual, a leading provider of deployment, application support, and Business Process as a Service (BPaaS) for Workday software, announced today that Dan Nolting, former Vice President at Workday, will join the company as Senior Advisor to the board of directors. Nolting recently retired from Workday after more than 10 years and prior to that held senior roles with Lawson Software, PeopleSoft and J.D. Edwards. He will advise OneSource Virtual in matters involving sales and marketing strategy, product evolution and global expansion. We couldnt be more pleased to have Dan join us as a Senior Advisor, said Trey Campbell, CEO and Board Member of OneSource Virtual. His many years of experience in the industry combined with his expertise in strategy, product development and global execution, will provide valuable perspective as we take the company forward. During his tenure at Workday, Nolting was responsible for building and scaling many of the companys strategic teams that launched into new markets. This included scaling and leading Workdays Global Financials sales efforts, building and managing its Medium Enterprise business and go to market strategy, as well as scaling the early field and sales organization for North America. His early efforts helped to create the foundation of leaders and processes in place today at Workday. I am delighted to be joining OneSource Virtual as a Senior Advisor, said Dan Nolting. Ive known and worked with the company since its inception more than a decade ago, and am impressed by its culture of serving customers with quality and innovation. OneSource Virtual is extremely well positioned and I look forward to providing guidance and assistance to such an amazing group of people. About OneSource Virtual Founded in 2008, OneSource Virtual is a pioneer of Business Process as a Service (BPaaS) and supports the automated delivery, including Robotic Process as a Service (RPaaS), of solutions exclusively using Workday software. OneSource Virtuals services empower organizations of all sizes by encouraging HR to become a strategic partner within the organization, aligning to business growth and scaling by demand through Workday deployment, consulting, and in-application payroll administration, benefit administration and application management services. OneSource Virtuals global headquarters is located in Dallas, Texas, with additional locations across North America and Europe. For more information, please visit http://www.onesourcevirtual.com. "We take great pride in our ability to provide top quality dental care that protects both the patient and the environment. It has always been a privilege to serve our community, and this award is one we deeply value," says Dr. Hye Park. The Washingtonian Magazine is an established and respected monthly publication that offers recommendations and information to the community, which includes annual rankings for top physicians and dentists in the area. Each year, The Washingtonian releases a Top Dentists issue that is based on peer recommendations through a local survey. Dr. Hye Park, lead dentist at Green Dental of Alexandria, was recently featured in the latest Top Dentists list of The Washingtonian Magazine. Dr. Park was selected from among thousands of dentists in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area for excellence in her field. Dr. Parks practice is set apart by their unique commitment to deliver eco-friendly dentistry to surrounding families. Green Dental of Alexandria offers innovative systems that support the environment, such as green dental imaging, air and water purification systems and a green infection control system. To boost patient safety, they also offer mercury-free dental restorations and low radiation digital x-rays. We take great pride in our ability to provide top quality dental care that protects both the patient and the environment. It has always been a privilege to serve our community, and this award is one we deeply value, says Dr. Hye Park. 2019 Top Dentist Dr. Hye Park brings over a decade of experience and offers services in multiple facets of dentistry, ranging from basic general dentistry and restorative services to a full line of cosmetic procedures, orthodontics and dental implants. When visiting the office, patients can enjoy relaxing amenities such as complimentary beverages, dental massage chairs and warm scented facial towels for the ultimate spa-like experience. More about Hye Park, DMD: Dr. Park obtained her bachelors degree in biochemistry from the University of Maryland at Baltimore County before going on to receive her Doctor of Dental Medicine Degree from the Boston University Goldman School of Dental Medicine. She is a member of both the Academy of General Dentistry and the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. Her office uses only the most state-of-the-art, eco-friendly procedures and equipment, ensuring that all of her patients receive the highest quality care with little impact on the environment. For more information about Dr. Hye Park, or to schedule an appointment with Green Dental of Alexandria, visit their website at http://www.greendentalalexandria.com or call their offices at 703-549-1725. EBSCOs continuous support of open source technology like Koha and its partnership with ByWater Solutions allow the community to move forward toward an open library environment for libraries of all sizes and needs. EBSCO Information Services (EBSCO) will be a gold sponsor at the Koha Open Source Library System Annual Conference, KohaCon19. KohaCon19 is being held in Dublin, Ireland, from May 20 24. This is a free conference for the Koha open source community, making sponsorships like EBSCOs essential. During KohaCon, community members share their findings and experiences with open source technology in efforts to further develop Koha library automation technology. The conference will include presentations and sessions focusing on technical issues and trainings for librarians. EBSCO speakers, Executive Vice President Sam Brooks and Vice President of Open Source Platforms and Communities Christopher Spalding, will be presenting at KohaCon19. Their presentation on Supporting Data Integrations for Open Source Communities will review the areas in which EBSCO provides support for Koha and other open source projects, including financial help, technology advancements and integrations. Additional library automation leaders speaking at KohaCon19 include Ken Chad and Marshall Breeding. EBSCO has been committed to helping further the innovation of open source technology for years. EBSCO was a member of the board of the original Kuali OLE and has funded extensive Koha development. EBSCO is also an active member of the Open Library Foundation. Open source technology allows libraries, vendors and developers to collaborate and redefine the future of libraries. EBSCOs continuous support of open source technology like Koha and its partnership with ByWater Solutions allow the community to move forward toward an open library environment for libraries of all sizes and needs. ByWater Solutions is currently the largest service provider for the Koha Open Source Library System, supporting more than 1,000 Koha libraries. About EBSCO Information Services EBSCO Information Services (EBSCO) is the leading discovery service provider for libraries worldwide with more than 11,000 discovery customers in over 100 countries. EBSCO Discovery Service (EDS) provides each institution with a comprehensive, single search box for its entire collection, offering unparalleled relevance ranking quality and extensive customization. EBSCO is also the preeminent provider of online research content for libraries, including hundreds of research databases, historical archives, point-of-care medical reference, and corporate learning tools serving millions of end users at tens of thousands of institutions. EBSCO is the leading provider of electronic journals & books for libraries, with subscription management for more than 360,000 serials, including more than 57,000 e-journals, as well as online access to more than 1,000,000 e-books. For more information, visit the EBSCO website at: http://www.ebsco.com. EBSCO Information Services is a division of EBSCO Industries, Inc., a family owned company since 1944. For more information, please contact: Kathleen McEvoy Vice President of Communications (800) 653-2726 ext. 2594 kmcevoy@ebsco.com ERC's President and CEO, Marty Sarim; Vice President, Jose Gonzalez; and Co-Founder and COB, Kirk Moquin, celebrate the opening of ERC's new facility. ERC, a global BPO and Collections company, celebrated the official opening of their new 52,500 square-foot facility in the Dominican Republic. ERC executives and new employees held a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the site to mark the historic occasion. This is another exciting day for our company. Many thought we would never open a second facility here, said Marty Sarim, ERC's President and CEO. But when the opportunity presented itself, ERC once again bet on the team. In my experience in life and business, you got to believe. And when you work with people you believe in, amazing things can happen, said Kirk Moquin, ERC's Co-Founder and COB. The state-of-the-art facility is located only a few miles from their current campus and resides in San Isidro Free Trade Park, Santo Domingo's thriving industrial park. Established in 1986, the area has grown to become one of the most modernized and successful free zones in the Caribbean, and is home to 34 multinational companies. The new employees are excited to join the ERC family and take advantage of the countless amenities available in San Isidro Free Trade Park. Some of the perks include a barber shop and beauty salon, an on-site hospital and cafeteria, 24/7 private security, access to public transportation, and private study rooms for students. ERC employees will even have access to daycare services inside the facility. ERC is confident that their new location is the perfect place for employees to succeed and grow with the company. We want to always do right by our employees and make sure they have everything they need to be successful. This new facility accomplishes that, added Sarim. 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-to-end 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 We never collect any activity or connection logs and engineer our systems to ensure sensitive information never touches the hard drive, stated Harold Li, vice president at ExpressVPN. But now with TrustedServer, were taking it a step further, by cutting the hard drive out of the picture entirely. ExpressVPN, a top-ranked VPN provider, today announced their industry-first TrustedServer technology, which completely re-imagines server administration and management to deliver two major innovations that significantly enhance privacy and security for VPN users: TrustedServer technology has VPN servers run only on volatile memory (RAM), not on hard drives. This minimizes data risks by ensuring all information on a server is wiped every time it is rebooted. TrustedServer technology has each VPN server freshly load the latest software stack from a read-only image on boot, ensuring all servers run the exact same, up-to-date code when they start up. TrustedServer runs on RAM only, preventing any information or intruders from persisting. ExpressVPN TrustedServer runs off volatile memory, or RAM, so no data is ever written to the hard drive. Since RAM requires power to store data, TrustedServer can guarantee that all information on a server is wiped every time it is powered off and on again. In the traditional server setup model used by most companies, the operating system requires read/write permissions to the hard drive in order to run applications. These hard drives retain all data until they are erased and overwritten, increasing the risk that servers could inadvertently contain sensitive user information. If someone were to hack or seize the server, they could gain access to this data. Even worse, attackers who do find their way in might be able to install a backdoor that remains indefinitely. ExpressVPN TrustedServer technology addresses those security threats by making sure that absolutely nothingneither information nor intruderscan remain on a server when it is rebooted. We never collect any activity or connection logs and engineer our systems to ensure sensitive information never touches the hard drive, stated Harold Li, vice president at ExpressVPN. But now with TrustedServer, were taking it a step further, by cutting the hard drive out of the picture entirely. TrustedServer ensures consistency across ExpressVPNs VPN server network by always booting from the latest read-only image. TrustedServer also introduces key innovation that ensures all ExpressVPN servers are running the same, most up-to-date software and configuration. Each time a server powers up, it loads the latest read-only image containing the entire software stack, operating system and all. The image is cryptographically signed by ExpressVPN, and servers will not operate if that signature is not valid. This groundbreaking approach ensures greater consistency, and therefore better security. TrustedServer means that we know that each and every one of our 3,000+ servers worldwide loads and runs the same, most up-to-date code each time they start upwith the right patches and configuration for optimum security and performance, continued Li. The more software consistency there is across a network, the less likely that there are vulnerabilities or misconfigurations, and the more confident we can be that the software that we audit and test is actually whats running on all servers. With traditional server administration, every incremental update that is applied one by one across thousands of servers is an opportunity for differences among them to arise. The more servers a company has, and the more time passes, the less confident that company can be that every single server is running the exact same code and configured the same way. As a result, a server that was set up years ago might be running software in an unexpected way thats dangerously different from what the companys engineers are testing or auditing today. TrustedServer means that we know exactly whats running on each and every ExpressVPN serverminimizing the risk of vulnerabilities or misconfiguration. With the operating system effectively reinstalled with every single reboot, TrustedServer dramatically reduces security risks. About ExpressVPN Founded 10 years ago, ExpressVPN is one of the worlds largest providers of VPN services, enabling users to protect their privacy and security online with just a few clicks. The companys award-winning software for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, routers, and browsers secures user information and identities with best-in-class encryption and leakproofing. With 3,000+ servers across 94 countries and new servers added each week, ExpressVPN provides a fast connection wherever users are and offers uncensored access to sites and services from around the world. Based in the British Virgin Islands, ExpressVPN has a globally distributed team working in cities including Toronto, London, Paris, Zagreb, Singapore, Hong Kong, Perth, Manila, and Tokyo. A vocal advocate for internet freedom and privacy, ExpressVPN is a proud financial supporter of nonprofit organizations fighting to protect digital rights, including the Electronic Frontier Foundation, the Internet Defense League, OpenMedia, and others. To learn more about ExpressVPNs privacy and security solutions, visit expressvpn.com. Fairleigh Dickinson University Poll logo What we found in this survey is that the general public is not aware of aspirin benefits for cancer prevention, said Dr. Anastasia Rivkin, Assistant Dean for Faculty and Professor of Pharmacy Practice at the FDU School of Pharmacy and Health Sciences. For years, Americans have been told about the benefits of daily aspirin usage. Eighty-one milligrams of aspirin daily can be helpful in warding off a host of ailments in some patients, according to research. A quarter of all Americans use or have used aspirin on a daily basis at some point in their life due to a widespread campaign to promote its impact on heart health, over-the-counter accessibility, and its perceived safety due to the name baby aspirin. The Fairleigh Dickinson University School of Pharmacy and Health Sciences National Health Survey finds 24 percent of adults nationwide are now or have taken baby aspirin on a daily basis. Among those who have not taken the pill daily, thirteen percent believe they will at some point in their lives. Most (81%) take aspirin at the recommendation of their doctor, and another 18 percent arrived at the decision without speaking with a health professional. Over half of aspirin users take the pill for prevention purposes, as 56 percent do not report having a chronic disease or illness. Aspirin can be used as a primary prevention agent - to preclude disease(s) from occurring in the future, and a secondary prevention agent - to decrease the risk of disease recurrence, in addition to other usage indications. Polling data showed that those suffering from a chronic illness or disease were twice as likely than those without an illness to take a baby aspirin (41% versus 18%). A racial divide exists in daily usage as well. A third (31%) of white respondents use the drug for primary prevention as compared with 14 percent of non-white respondents. Although daily baby aspirin usage can be used for a variety of reasons, the public believes heart protection is the primary reason. Seventy-eight percent reportedly take, have taken, or think they will take it at some point in their lives in order to help prevent heart disease. Another sixteen percent say taking baby aspirin is beneficial to ones overall health. Even though the research indicates the drug can provide benefits in protecting against certain forms of cancer, only one percent say this is the reason they take or would consider taking the drug. In view of recent evidence published in the New England Journal of Medicine, as well as updated American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Guidelines released on March 17, 2019, aspirin should not be used routinely for the primary prevention of cardiovascular disease. In many patients, the risk of bleeding may be similar or greater compared to the benefit of preventing a cardiovascular event, said Dr. Anastasia Rivkin, Assistant Dean for Faculty and Professor of Pharmacy Practice at the FDU School of Pharmacy and Health Sciences. Individual patient parameters, such as age, overall cardiovascular risk assessment, and other factors should be thoroughly discussed with the patients health care provider before considering aspirin to prevent heart disease. There is more data to support the use of baby aspirin for colorectal cancer prevention than other types of cancer. The 2016 U.S. Preventive Services Task Force guidelines recommend low-dose aspirin to prevent colorectal cancer in patients who are also at risk for cardiovascular diseases and are not at increased risk for bleeding, continued Rivkin. Based on research, long-term aspirin use can result in up to a 40 percent reduction of colorectal cancer risk. What we found in this survey is that the general public is not aware of aspirin benefits for cancer prevention. As with all drugs, complications can arise from daily baby aspirin use. The public has mixed views about the safety of baby aspirin, despite a fair degree of usage or planned usage. A quarter (27%) of Americans believe daily baby aspirin use only has health benefits, 40 percent believe it can also hurt someones overall health, while a third (32%) remain unsure. Eighty-one-milligram baby aspirin has both benefits and risks associated with daily use. The assumption that aspirin only has health benefits is incorrect. One meta-analysis published in the Annals of Internal Medicine and the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force which showed daily or every other day baby aspirin use increased risk of major gastrointestinal bleeding and hemorrhagic stroke, especially with increasing age and among men. Before this medication is recommended to a patient, healthcare providers decide whether the primary prevention benefits outweigh the risk of bleeding. The answer to this question will vary widely from one patient to another, noted Dr. Elif Ozdener, Assistant Professor of Pharmacy Practice. References for data: https://www.uspreventiveservicestaskforce.org/Page/Document/evidence-summary-bleeding-risks-with-aspirin-use/aspirin-to-prevent-cardiovascular-disease-and-cancer Methodology The National Health Survey was conducted by The Fairleigh Dickinson University Poll on behalf of the FDU School of Pharmacy and Health Sciences. A random sample was drawn of adults nationwide, including in Alaska and Hawaii, and interviews were conducted on landlines and cellphones between January 28 - February 13, 2019. Respondents were screened in order to interview an adult, 18 or older. A total of 1000 interviews were administered by ReconMR in San Marcos, Texas. 296 interviews were conducted on landlines and 704 were conducted on cellphones by professionally trained interviewers using a CATI (Computer Assisted Telephone Interviewing) system. All interviews were conducted in English. Telephone numbers were purchased by ReconMR through Marketing Systems Group. Results for the total sample have a margin of sampling error of +/- 4.03 percentage points, including the design effect. Survey results are also subject to non-sampling error. This kind of error, which cannot be measured, arises from a number of factors including, but not limited to, non-response (eligible individuals refusing to be interviewed), question-wording, the order in which questions are asked, and variations among interviewers. Weighting was applied to the sample to more accurately treat the respondents are representatives of the total population of the United States. 2019 estimates of the U.S. population by Claritas were used to weight the data. In this case, the proportions of three characteristics were used; Race, Age, and Gender. Each respondent falls into one, and only one, set and no respondent is left out. For the second year, the FDU Poll received an A rating from statistician Nate Silvers FiveThirtyEight blog. The ratings measure both accuracy and bias for all major polling services in the United States, providing an update to similar research the poll watchers conducted in 2014. FDUs A rating puts it in the top 15 of the more than 380 polling institutes reviewed and graded from A+ through F. The FDU poll was found to have a 94 percent accuracy rate for predicting election results and is one of only three A-rated polling institutes with zero bias to their rankings. To see the questions and tables visit: http://view2.fdu.edu/publicmind/2019/190404 Manufacturers have long overlooked the tremendous potential of their aftermarket, most often because of the operational complexities of marketing and selling parts. Our PartSpot product provides a vehicle for simplifying part sales. GenAlpha Technologies, LLC has partnered with Servispart Consulting to provide a powerful synergy of aftermarket knowledge and technology expertise in addressing the needs of the manufacturing aftermarket. Located in the UK, Servispart offers a variety of consulting services designed to optimize aftermarket operations and performance. These services are well aligned with the advantages of GenAlphas PartSpot product, a powerful and feature-rich eCommerce/eCatalog system designed specifically for the manufacturing aftermarket. GenAlpha and Servispart will collaborate on customer projects, utilizing the expertise of each firm. Manufacturers have long overlooked the tremendous potential of their aftermarket, most often because of the operational complexities of marketing and selling parts. Our PartSpot product provides a vehicle for simplifying part sales, and when coupled with the consulting expertise of Servispart we present manufacturers with a highly qualified path to aftermarket success, says Stan Eames, GenAlphas CEO. We are excited to be partnering with Genalpha to help more manufacturers unlock their aftermarket growth and servitization opportunities, says Adrian Botham, Managing Director of Servispart. Our Aftermarket 360TM and Service Growth Accelerator improvement methodologies often highlight eCommerce and technical parts data management as key growth enablers, which Genalpha can help our clients to fully exploit. Features such as an integrated electronic parts catalog, BOM illustration hot-spotting and interactive 3-D drawings make PartSpot a premier consideration when selecting an aftermarket eCommerce solution. Servisparts strategy, business change and digital transformation services are designed to address the many challenges associated with aftermarket growth. Together, Servispart and GenAlpha offer a stellar combination to move manufacturers into the future of aftermarket B2B eCommerce. Headquartered in Brookfield, Wisconsin, GenAlpha Technologies LLC is an innovative provider of eCommerce, eCatalog and customer portal solutions specifically for manufacturers looking to digitize their aftermarket sales efforts. More information may be found on-line at http://www.genalpha.com, or by contacting Jim Vogel, VP of Customer Engagement at 414-975-0844. Servispart Consulting operates out of Cheshire, UK and provides winning growth strategies and implementation services that accelerate aftermarket competitiveness, customer service and financial performance. For more information, visit https://www.servispart.co.uk. Toney Elementary celebrates with Georgia United team members on May 7, 2019, as being named the 2019 top School Crashers award recipient. Georgia United Credit Union Foundation is excited to announce the award recipients of its sixth Annual School Crashers program. A total of 10 schools across the state have been named to receive facility improvements over the summer, with Toney Elementary School in Decatur selected as top recipient. Located at 2701 Oakland Terrace, Toney Elementary is a Title I school that has educated generations of children in the surrounding community since 1952. Dr. Karen Dukes, special education teacher, nominated the school for a facility makeover. In addition to the top award, five schools will receive smaller facility improvements, known as mini-crashes and four more schools will receive Mohawk carpet grants. Congratulations to all 10 recipients of the 2019 School Crashers program: Toney Elementary in Decatur; 350 students; Project Scope: Multiple Areas, Courtyard Classroom Camp Creek Elementary in Lilburn; 1,000 students; Project Scope: Special Needs Playground Eton Elementary in Chatsworth; 600 students; Project Scope: Playground Improvements Cousins Middle School in Covington; 800 students; Project Scope: Music Room Makeover East Laurens Elementary in Dublin; 600 students; Project Scope: Media Center Makeover Carver Middle School in Monroe; 850 students; Project Scope: Media Center Makeover Stone Mountain Elementary in Stone Mountain; 550 students; Mohawk Carpet Grant Cohutta Elementary in Cohutta; 300 students; Mohawk Carpet Grant Beaverdale Elementary in Dalton; 350 students; Mohawk Carpet Grant Briar Vista Elementary in Atlanta; 400 students; Mohawk Carpet Grant In the spring of 2019, Georgia United Foundation opened their School Crashers program nominations to all accredited K-12 schools in Georgia. Interested schools were asked to include a photograph along with a 250-word statement explaining why their school should receive a makeover. Since its inception, the School Crashers program has provided 33 school makeovers totaling over one-million dollars in improvements over the last five years. About the Georgia United Foundation Georgia United Foundation is committed to improving the quality of life for children and families in the communities they serve through impactful programs funded by way of corporate contributions and delivered through volunteerism from the credit union and community partners. The Foundation is a tax-exempt 501(c)(3) charitable organization and is the philanthropic arm of Georgia United Credit Union. Visit gucufoundation.org to learn more. About Georgia United Credit Union Georgia United Credit Union is ranked as one of the top credit unions in Georgia with over $1.3 billion in assets, 163,000 members and 19 branch locations. As a full-service financial institution, they offer competitive products and services for every stage of life. Visit gucu.org to learn more and follow the credit union on Facebook at facebook.com/GeorgiaUnitedCU, Twitter @GAUnitedCU and Instagram @gucucares. Glen Lerner Injury Attorneys announces a rebranding of 11 law firms located in Nevada, Illinois, and Indiana. As part of the law firm rebranding efforts that take effect on Monday, May 13, 2019, all Glen Lerner Injury Attorneys locations and supportive advertising practices will be changed to the name of their Phoenix-based partner, Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys. The law firm rebrand makes Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys one of the largest personal injury law firms in the country with 27 locations and just under 400 team members all dedicated to compassionately serving the injured in California, Washington, Oregon, Nevada, Arizona, New Mexico, Tennessee, Illinois, and Indiana. Glen Lerner, founder of Glen Lerner Injury Attorneys and Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys, remarked: Over the past 20 years, my partner Kevin Rowe and I have been building one of the largest personal injury law firms in the country. I thought it was about time to give him more recognition across the board, so we decided to rebrand and make one enormous personal injury powerhouse. All joking aside, I couldnt be more pleased with this change. As the Lerner and Rowe brand has expanded across the country, it just made sense to rebrand the Las Vegas, Chicago, and Merrillville offices as Lerner and Rowe. Ultimately, our legal teams were solid before the name change in protecting the rights of the injured, and we will be equally as strong now as Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys. Kevin Rowe, managing partner/member at Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys, also shared: For over two decades now, Glen and I have worked hard to create law firms well-recognized for obtaining exceptional results for injured victims of tortious conduct. Weve done this by instilling our teams with our major core beliefs: compassionate quality service for each and every client and respect for all those whom we represent. Accordingly, anyone who comes into contact with our attorneys and/or members of our support team can and will feel confident that they have retained the right firm with an attentive, empathetic ear to those in need and a quality law firm which offers meaningful, educated answers to the many questions and concerns commonly associated with personal injury claims/litigation. Overall, this rebranding doesnt change much else aside from a few location names. Were still the same great law firm. We still have the same great memorable phone numbers. But now with my public involvement, well do it with a little bit more personality. More about Lerner and Rowe Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys is a powerhouse law firm in representing personal injury clients. Attorneys Glen Lerner and Kevin Rowe have grown their law firm into one of the largest personal injury firms in the country, with over 50 attorneys and nearly 400 support employees located in Nevada, California, Illinois, Indiana, Arizona, New Mexico, and Tennessee. The law firms continuous exalted levels of success can be attributed to the high levels of respect and dignity shown to victims and family members hurt in an accident. For those injured outside one of the previously listed states, Lerner and Rowe has an established network of attorneys across the country, ready to help. The firm takes pride in nourishing these relationships as they know a personal injury attorney can make all the difference in obtaining fair compensation for the pain and suffering inflicted upon the victims of tortious conduct. For more information about Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys, please call (844) 977-1900. To learn more about their Arizona criminal defense and bankruptcy law firm, Lerner and Rowe Law Group, call (602) 667-7777, or visit lernerandrowelawgroup.com. To connect with the law firm socially, follow Lerner and Rowe on Twitter, or become a fan of its Facebook page. Also, visit lernerandrowegivesback.com to learn more about the many other community services that the lawyers and legal support team of Lerner and Rowe actively support. Attorneys from global law firm Greenberg Traurig, LLP helped lead a cross section of dealmakers in re-thinking the ever-shifting European corporate and mergers and acquisitions landscape during an inaugural event presented by Legal Business. London Managing Shareholder Fiona Adams and firm Vice Chair Paul Maher each took separate roles on a panel that delved into successfully navigating auctions for assets. Adams, as moderator, and Maher, as a speaker, joined the exploration of best strategies to maximize positioning at auctions, an increasingly common feature of the European M&A scene. Other panelists included Jessie Gill, Head of Legal, Stemcor; Chris Hunt, Head of Mergers & Acquisitions, Rentokil Initial; and Nick Johnston, Partner, Perella Weinberg Partners. Some 100 attendees ranging from in-house counsel and private practice attorneys to bankers and transaction professionals gathered to glean insights and network during the daylong event, which took place in central London, April 29. The deep-dive discussions focused on assessing corporate issues facing London by examining mergers and acquisition practices and trends. Greenberg Traurig served as an event sponsor. The April event is part of a newly established series launched earlier in the year by Legal Business, a leading global media presence for legal market insights. This summit follows an earlier one presented on financial services regulation and banking litigation. Both complement the companys well-established commercial litigation and arbitration summit. About Greenberg Traurigs London Office: Greenberg Traurig, LLP in London has established itself as a multidisciplinary law firm, with more than 80 lawyers and growing. The London office provides partner-led advice to domestic and international clients on a range of matters across the legal spectrum. Lawyers at Greenberg Traurig in London advise U.K. and multinational clients operating in many different sectors, including chemicals, pharmaceuticals, life sciences, energy, real estate, financial services, automotive, retail and communications. For additional information, please visit http://www.gtlaw.com. About Greenberg Traurigs Corporate Practice: Greenberg Traurigs Corporate Practice comprises more than 450 lawyers in the United States, Europe, Asia, the Middle East and Latin America who regularly advise public and privately held companies, entrepreneurs and investment funds on global mergers and acquisitions, corporate restructurings, private equity and venture capital, underwritten and syndicated offerings, commercial finance and syndicated lending, cross-border transactions, and general corporate matters. The groups industry experience includes transactions in a wide range of fields, from the pharmaceutical, medical devices, and life sciences fields, to representations involving clients in the aviation, banking, consumer products, energy, food and beverage, health care, manufacturing, media, technology, and telecommunications sectors. About Greenberg Traurig, LLP: Greenberg Traurig, LLP (GT) has more than 2,000 attorneys in 39 offices in the United States, Latin America, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. GT has been recognized for its philanthropic giving, diversity, and innovation, and is consistently among the largest firms in the U.S. on the Law360 400 and among the Top 20 on the Am Law Global 100. Web: http://www.gtlaw.com Twitter: @GT_Law. Raquel Lord, of counsel in global law firm Greenberg Traurig, LLPs New Jersey office, will speak at Centerforces Women, Diversity & Change Summit to be held May 8, in New York City. The Women Diversity & Change Summit is a full-day conference which will cover topics such as self-advocacy, unconscious bias, sponsorship, and succeeding in male dominate environments. Lord will participate on the panel Dealing with Unconscious Bias & Discrimination, which will focus on types unconscious bias; how to discuss the topic with senior, peer, and junior colleagues; and reporting it. Lord focuses her practice on employment matters. She represents an array of clients, including those from the health care, financial services, package delivery, and retail industries. She assists clients with hiring and termination procedures, performance management, employee discipline, responding to complaints of harassment, discrimination, and retaliation, disability accommodations, employee leave issues, wage and hour compliance, restrictive covenants, and social media issues, and regularly appears in federal and state court on behalf of clients in connection with litigation. Lord is also very active in Greenberg Traurigs Womens Initiative (GTWI) in the New Jersey office. About Greenberg Traurigs Womens Initiative: Greenberg Traurig is committed to its women lawyers success, which includes a firmwide womens affinity group encompassing recruiting, retention, and business development. The firm regularly collaborates with like-minded organizations to address these issues on a broader scale in a variety of industries and communities. Greenberg Traurig also takes thoughtful action to address issues such as maintaining a healthy work-life balance, breaking the glass ceiling, mentoring, creating and maintaining healthy lifestyles, and giving back to the community. About Greenberg Traurig, LLP: Greenberg Traurig, LLP (GT) has more than 2,000 attorneys in 39 offices in the United States, Latin America, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. GT has been recognized for its philanthropic giving, diversity, and innovation, and is consistently among the largest firms in the U.S. on the Law360 400 and among the Top 20 on the Am Law Global 100. Web: http://www.gtlaw.com Twitter: @GT_Law. The Heilind Tech Expo will feature over 25 manufacturers in the electronic components industry. Heilind Electronics, a leading global distributor of electronic components, will host its next Tech Expo event in Salt Lake City, Utah on June 20. Attendees will have a chance to interact directly with personnel from over 25 leading manufacturers in the electronic components industry. Heilind supports all market segments with its commercial and MIL-SPEC interconnect, electromechanical and sensor offerings. Were looking forward to our next Tech Expo in Salt Lake City, said Andrew Gacek, Territory Business Manager, Heilind Electronics. Its exciting to host the popular Heilind Tech Expo series and offer customers an opportunity to interact one-on-one with our suppliers. The event is a win-win for customers, suppliers and manufacturer representatives. The show is free to attend and will be held at the Wheeler Historic Farm in Murray, Utah, near Salt Lake City. For details and to register, visit http://www.heilind.com/heilind-tech-expo. About Heilind Electronics Heilind Electronics, Inc. (http://www.heilind.com/) is one of the world's leading distributors of connectors, relays, sensors, switches, thermal management and circuit protection products, terminal blocks, wire and cable, wiring accessories and insulation and identification products. Founded in 1974, Heilind has locations throughout the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Brazil, Germany, Singapore, Hong Kong and China. Follow Heilind on Facebook at facebook.com/Heilind and on Twitter at twitter.com/Heilind. Comparing online car insurance quotes can help drivers find the coverage they need at affordable prices, said Russell Rabichev, Marketing Director of Internet Marketing Company. Compare-autoinsurance.org has launched a new blog post that explains why its important for drivers to compare car insurance prices. For more info, please visit https://compare-autoinsurance.org/why-it-is-important-to-compare-auto-insurance-rates/ Car insurance companies use various factors when they calculate the premiums paid by drivers. Whether its the high price of the new technologies that are incorporated in the new vehicles or the fact that the policyholders moved to a new place, these factors can have an impact on the insurance rates paid by drivers. Policyholders are recommended to regularly compare insurance prices and check if their own policy is still competitive. Comparing car insurance prices is important for various reasons: It is really fast and easy to compare online car insurance quotes. Policyholders only need an internet connection and a device like a smartphone, tablet, pc, notebook in order to compare online car insurance prices. After they fill in some online forms with correct info, drivers will get their quotes and they can start comparing them. Before buying coverage or changing the insurance company, drivers should compare auto insurance quotes. Different insurance providers use different algorithms when they calculate insurance prices. Although some insurance companies can offer high premiums for a policy, other providers might offer better deals for the exact same policy. Online quotes will help drivers who need special coverage, its important to compare quotes. High-risk drivers, vintage and classic cars collectors, or military personnel can find car insurance at specialized non-standard carriers. When dealing with this type of insurance providers, its vital to compare quotes. The difference in insurance prices between two specialized carriers can be high. Get multiple price estimates on a single search results webpage. With the help of brokerage websites, drivers can get multiple offers by filling in an online questionnaire only once. Policyholders will save time, by avoiding to do a repetitive task of filling in online forms at multiple insurance companies. For additional info, money-saving tips and free car insurance quotes, visit https://compare-autoinsurance.org/ Compare-autoinsurance.org is an online provider of life, home, health, and auto insurance quotes. This website is unique because it does not simply stick to one kind of insurance provider, but brings the clients the best deals from many different online insurance carriers. In this way, clients have access to offers from multiple carriers all in one place: this website. On this site, customers have access to quotes for insurance plans from various agencies, such as local or nationwide agencies, brand names insurance companies, etc. Jackie Milner, a retired real estate professional and mother of three successful children currently living with Rich, her husband of fifty-three years, in their dream home on Lake Erie, has completed her book Put on Your Own Oxygen Mask First: an autobiographical narrative celebrating the healing she discovered through the support and mentorship of a remarkable therapist. Having grown up in an exceptionally loving family but with a dysfunctional, alcoholic father, Jackie felt like she had a hole in her heart. Searching for answers and healing, she sought the help of several psychologists. She came away feeling like they were the ones who really needed help. Then she met her mentor, Dr. Esther Ekus, and the rest is history. This reading is a description of that miracle. Published by New York City-based Page Publishing, Jackie Milners book is an illuminating memoir of self-discovery. Readers who wish to experience this inspiring work can purchase Put on Your Own Oxygen Mask First at bookstores everywhere, or online at the Apple iTunes store, Amazon, Google Play, or Barnes and Noble. For additional information or media inquiries, contact Page Publishing at 866-315-2708. About Page Publishing: Page Publishing is a traditional New York-based, full-service publishing house that handles all the intricacies involved in publishing its authors books, including distribution in the worlds largest retail outlets and royalty generation. Page Publishing knows that authors need to be free to create - not overwhelmed with logistics like eBook conversion, establishing wholesale accounts, insurance, shipping, taxes, and the like. Its roster of accomplished authors and publishing professionals allows writers to leave behind these complex and time-consuming issues to focus on their passion: writing and creating. Learn more at http://www.pagepublishing.com. Johns Hopkins All Childrens Hospital officially dedicate the Walmart and Sams Club Simulation Center For more than 30 years, Walmart and Sams Club have helped make important investments throughout the hospital, including new equipment and spaces that truly make a difference in the care were able to provide to the children with medically complex needs in our community Johns Hopkins All Childrens Hospital officially dedicated the Walmart and Sams Club Simulation Center on Thursday. Dozens of Walmart associates and community leaders were in attendance to join the celebration. Walmart and Sams Club associates have raised $1.2 million for the center, which is led by Dr. Jen Arnold. The space is a testing, research and training facility where learners get hands-on experiences in spaces that mimic anything from a clinical exam room to a home environment. Simulation helps learners practice high-risk clinical situations and better prepares them to communicate and work together as a team. The center officially opened last fall in the Johns Hopkins All Childrens Research and Education building. We are so appreciative of the support Walmart and Sams Club have had for the children and families at Johns Hopkins All Childrens, said Jenine Rabin, executive vice president of the Johns Hopkins All Childrens Foundation. For more than 30 years, Walmart and Sams Club have helped make important investments throughout the hospital, including new equipment and spaces that truly make a difference in the care were able to provide to the children with medically complex needs in our community. Walmart and Sams Club associates have helped raise $1 billion for 170 Childrens Miracle Network hospitals, such as Johns Hopkins All Childrens, across the country since 1987. Locally, associates, their generous customers and members have raised approximately $18 million for Johns Hopkins All Childrens Hospital. We are so grateful for our customers and associates who continue to show an inspirational passion each year to help raise funds so that children right here in the Tampa-St. Petersburg community live better, said Elise Vasquez-Warner, vice president and regional general manager for Walmart in Central Florida. Together, we have made a real difference in the lives of our areas most vulnerable children. View photos from the event About Johns Hopkins All Childrens Foundation Johns Hopkins All Childrens Foundation provides philanthropic support for the mission and vision of Johns Hopkins All Childrens Hospital and to ensure that charitable donations are stewarded directly toward the greatest needs of the hospital and its patients. Its sole function is to raise, steward and distribute donations to benefit Johns Hopkins All Childrens, a Childrens Miracle Network Hospital. As a non-profit organization, the Foundation works together with individuals, corporations, charitable trusts and other organizations who share its vision, that all children deserve the best pediatric care available. Johns Hopkins All Childrens Hospital is a leader in childrens health care, combining a legacy of compassionate care for children since 1926 with the innovation and experience of one of the worlds leading health care systems. The 259-bed teaching hospital, ranked as a U.S. News & World Report Best Childrens Hospital, stands at the forefront of discovery, leading innovative research to cure and prevent childhood diseases while training the next generation of pediatric experts. For more information, visit HopkinsAllChildrens.org/Give. Vets Plus has the vision, resources and agility to do something special in animal health-- Juan Mena Vets Plus, Inc., Wisconsin-based developer, manufacturer and marketer of nutritional supplements and other products for the global animal health industry, announces the appointment of Juan Mena to the position of Director of Marketing - Companion Animal. Mr. Mena, with 25 years of sales and marketing experience among several companion animal brands, was most recently Director of Marketing for OPKO Health, Inc. in Miami, Florida until joining Vets Plus. Mr. Mena is the latest in a series of high profile executives to join Vets Plus. In March, Paul Hays, former Chief Executive Officer of Virbac North America, joined the company as its Chief Commercial Officer for all Vets Plus companies. In April, Jeff Hancock, former Chief Operations Officer for Bimeda, joined as Vice President of Operations overseeing production at all Vets Plus companies. Our plans call for aggressive growth among all of our businesses, whether we are a contractor for a partner or the originator of a novel animal health product, said Vets Plus President David Nelson. Our success to date has been the result of our deep scientific bench and unique technologies coupled with our cGMP manufacturing capacity and capabilities. There is a whole new level of growth available to us through channel optimization and marketing. Prior to joining OPKO, Mr. Mena worked in increasingly responsible sales, marketing and operations roles for leading animal health manufacturers. He was Director of Marketing for Teva Animal Health and followed the company through its acquisition by Bayer Animal Health, where he supported the rapid transition and integration of the Teva business. He was named Brand Manager for Bayers DVM line in 2013. At Vets Plus, Mr. Mena will be personally focused on marketing all companion animal brands and labels and will be responsible to lead the Marketing team that support all species products for Vets Plus companies. My experience tells me Vets Plus has the vision, resources and agility to do something special in the animal health space, said Mr. Mena. This feels like one of those right place, right time opportunities, he said. About Vets Plus Vets Plus is a leading manufacturer of health and nutrition products for livestock and companion animals. The company operates throughout North America and internationally. VPI is committed to quality and maintains SQF Code, edition 8.0 certification, NASC membership and AAFCO compliance. For information about Vets Plus, visit http://www.vets-plus.com. This extraordinary donation from Hogan Lovells provides critical support that will help us meet the most pressing challenges of our time, said Kristen Clarke, President and Executive Director of the Lawyers Committee for Civil Rights Under Law. Today, the Lawyers Committee for Civil Rights Under Law announced a $1 million donation from Hogan Lovells, a leading global law firm, to support the work of the non-partisan, national civil rights organization and leader in the nation working to confront racial discrimination faced by African Americans and other racial minorities. Hogan Lovells generous gift comes at a critical time, when the Lawyers Committee is engaged in active litigation across the country to combat voter suppression, secure a fairer criminal justice system, and confront the intensifying hate crime crisis. The organization also works to promote fair housing opportunity and, with Hogan Lovells as co-counsel, recently secured a landmark fair housing settlement against Nassau County, New York that will provide greater access to housing opportunity for New Yorkers. The firms support will help advance future litigation efforts that safeguard the rights of our nations most vulnerable communities. This extraordinary support, providing both financial support and expanded pro bono resources, is crucial to help us meet the pressing challenges of our time, said Kristen Clarke, President and Executive Director of the Lawyers Committee for Civil Rights Under Law. Hogan Lovells has long demonstrated its institutional commitment to promoting equal justice under law. Our hope is that their generous action will spur other law firms and corporations to similarly provide much-needed support for the work of non-partisan organizations in this era. In this historic moment, where the need to protect civil rights is so crucial, these additional resources will make a considerable impact on the organizations ability to carry out its work and to put needed resources where they will have the most profound impact. The firms donation will allow the Lawyers Committee to expand its partnership with Hogan Lovells on issues including, but not limited to, protecting the voting rights of all Americans, fighting for a fairer criminal justice system and addressing racial barriers to economic opportunity. We are proud to support the work of the Lawyers Committee for Civil Rights Under Law, said Stan Brown, a Hogan Lovells Senior Lawyer who has co-counseled on major civil rights litigations with the Lawyers Committee. They are one of the countrys leading civil rights organizations and, by collaborating with them, we can help to protect those who need legal representation the most. Hogan Lovells has long been committed to fighting for equal justice, and our work with the Lawyers Committee furthers that goal. Hogan Lovells donation embodies the spirit of President John F. Kennedys 1963 call to the private bar to help address racial discrimination. The Lawyers Committee, a nonpartisan, nonprofit racial justice organization, was formed in 1963 at the request of President John F. Kennedy to involve the private bar in providing legal services to address racial discrimination. Now in its 56th year, the Lawyers Committee is continuing its quest to Move America Toward Justice. The principal mission of the Lawyers Committee for Civil Rights Under Law is to secure, through the rule of law, equal justice for all, particularly in the areas of criminal justice, fair housing and community development, economic justice, educational opportunities, and voting rights. About the Lawyers Committee for Civil Rights Under Law The Lawyers Committee for Civil Rights Under Law, a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization, was formed in 1963 at the request of President John F. Kennedy to involve the private bar in providing legal services to address racial discrimination. Now in its 56th year, the Lawyers Committee for Civil Rights Under Law is continuing its quest to Move America Toward Justice. The principal mission of the Lawyers Committee for Civil Rights Under Law is to secure, through the rule of law, equal justice for all, particularly in the areas of criminal justice, fair housing and community development, economic justice, educational opportunities, and voting rights. About Hogan Lovells Hogan Lovells is a leading global legal practice providing business-oriented legal advice and high-quality service across its exceptional breadth of practices to clients around the world. Its commitment to ensuring access to justice for all goes back decades when it was the first major law firm in the nation to designate a full-time partner to manage its pro bono practice. Hogan Lovells lawyers donate their legal skills to help the wrongfully convicted, those fleeing persecution and violence, disenfranchised voters, the homeless and hungry, victims of discrimination and other underserved populations. Hogan Lovells or the firm is an international legal practice that includes Hogan Lovells US LLP and Hogan Lovells International LLP. For more information, see http://www.hoganlovells.com. Individuals and organizations interested in donating to the Lawyers Committee for Civil Rights Under Law should visit http://www.lawyerscommittee.org/donate or contact Bethany Criss at 202-662-8372 or via email to bcriss(at)lawyerscommittee(dot)org. Donations can also be mailed to Lawyers Committee for Civil Rights Under Law, 1500 K Street, 9th Floor, Washington, DC 20005. Contact Reynolds Graves Lawyers Committee RGraves(at)LawyersCommittee(dot)org 202-662-8375 Contact Maria Woehr Hogan Lovells US LLP maria.woehr(at)hoganlovells(dot)com 212-918-3000 Florida agriculture needs Congress to act boldly and decisively, said Florida Farm Bureau President John L. Hoblick. We hope our meetings with lawmakers will convey the urgent need for Congressional leadership on disaster relief and the other needs of our farm families. Local Farmers Meet with National Lawmakers in Washington, D.C. Editors Note: This release is relevant to the following counties: Alachua, Bay, Broward, Clay, Columbia, Desoto, Charlotte, Duval, Hardee, Hernando, Citrus, Highlands, Hillsborough, Indian River, Jefferson, Lafayette, Lake, Madison, Manatee, Miami-Dade, Nassau, Okaloosa, Okeechobee, Orange, Osceola, Pasco, Putnam, St. Johns, Suwannee, Santa Rosa, Volusia and Western Palm Beach. Gainesville, Fla. Florida farmers, ranchers and small business owners will speak up for agriculture when they visit with the Florida Congressional delegation in Washington, D.C., May 14-16 during the annual Field to the Hill fly-in event. More than 75 county Farm Bureau leaders from across the Sunshine State will travel to the nations capital to discuss various federal policies that affect agriculture and rural communities. Priority topics include hurricane disaster relief and environmental/water issues. In the Panhandle, Florida producers are still struggling to recover from Hurricane Michael, a Category 5 storm that decimated farms and rural communities in October 2018. Congressional leaders have deliberated on a comprehensive disaster relief package in recent weeks, but legislation has failed to reach the Presidents desk. Florida agriculture needs Congress to act boldly and decisively, said Florida Farm Bureau President John L. Hoblick. We hope our meetings with lawmakers will convey the urgent need for Congressional leadership on disaster relief and the other needs of our farm families. Florida Farm Bureau members will hold discussions in various formats with the states entire Congressional delegation. Along with Capitol Hill meetings and a visit to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Florida members will attend a Congressional training session at the American Farm Bureau Federation and a Florida Agriculture Global Partners Reception at the Embassy of Canada. The Reception is sponsored by Florida Farm Bureau and the University of Floridas Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences. Florida Farm Bureau, the states largest general agricultural organization, represents more than 147,000 member-families. We serve to enhance farm enterprise and improve rural communities. As leading manufacturers and retailers strive to stay ahead in a highly-competitive consumer market, it is more important than ever to adapt to shifts in the supply chain industry and identify areas for improved shipping processes that will keep and attract customers. Logistyx Technologies (http://www.logistyx.com), the leader in transportation management for parcel shipping, today announced President Ken Fleming will be speaking at the 2019 Gartner Supply Chain Executive Conference on Wednesday, May 15 from 3:00-3:45 p.m. MST on the topic of Multicarrier Parcel Shipping: A Unique Challenge Your TMS Fails to Address. In this session, Fleming will give an appraisal of multicarrier shipping and transportation management systems (TMS) solutions. Attendees will learn why parcel shipping in a global environment requires a different TMS strategy through case studies that reveal the struggles of managing high-volume international shipping through traditional TMS to address e-commerce and omnichannel business growth. As leading manufacturers and retailers strive to stay ahead in a highly-competitive consumer market, it is more important than ever to adapt to shifts in the supply chain industry and identify areas for improved shipping processes that will keep and attract customers. Investing in a comprehensive global TMS solution for parcel shipping is paramount to creating and maintaining a competitive edge, said Fleming. Earlier this year, Logistyx launched its flagship software, TME 3.0, the worlds first single engine specifically designed for parcel shipping. With more than 8,500 carrier service integrations globally, TME 3.0 provides carrier compliance, predictive analytics and tracking on shipping from start to finish. For more than 20 years, Fleming has led successful launches of numerous supply chain management technologies and services and has served as an industry expert on topics including ecommerce, SaaS, and enterprise software solutions. The 2019 Gartner Supply Chain Executive Conference invites industry experts to exchange ideas on how supply chain leaders can concentrate their efforts to deliver sustainable commercial success. About Logistyx Technologies: Logistyx Technologies is the leader in Transportation Management for parcel shipping, providing an unmatched global multi-carrier network, predictive analytics and full visibility into customer deliveries. Its software boosts parcel shipping efficiencies and other business KPIs for many of the worlds top brands, manufacturers, retailers and logistics providers. Headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, Logistyx Technologies also has U.S. offices in New York, Philadelphia, San Diego and St. Louis, and international offices in Canada, the Netherlands, the UK and Singapore. For more information, visit http://www.Logistyx.com. # # # Contact Logistyx Technologies Tiana Pigford, PReturn Inc. 312.488.0844 tpigford(at)preturn.com These City brands in the right hands are invaluable, and this portfolio is priceless. I experienced first hand what Denver.com could produce. This portfolio is available at the right time, place and price point" Peter Niederman, Denver.com and former owner of Kentwood Real Estate. Geocentric Media, Inc. announced today that two of the top city domain names in the country, LosAngeles.com and SanFrancisco.com, have joined an amazing digital portfolio of pure City brand names available as a group for the first time ever. This portfolio covers over 90,000,000 in US population, over 300,000,000 in annual tourists, handles over $90,000,000,000 (billion) in annual tourism dollars spent, and covers residential real estate markets that sells over $2,000,000,000,000 (trillion) annually. The entire portfolio includes the following City brands: LosAngeles.com Houston.com Denver.com Detroit.com StLouis.com Philadelphia.com SanDiego.com Scottsdale.com Minneapolis.com Indianapolis.com DistrictOfColumbia.com SanFrancisco.com Boulder.com SantaClara.com Oakland.com Sausalito.com Burbank.com Mesa.com LaJolla.com Albany.com Shreveport.com Raleigh.com Fred Mercaldo, CEO of Geocentric Media, Inc, states: "This portfolio gives a buyer an incredible footprint of digital assets on much sought-after pure City branded domain names. These domains provide an unprecedented opportunity to acquire a portfolio of this breadth and magnitude. As the future of news, travel and tourism bookings, real estate and content goes digital at breakneck speed, this portfolio represents a unique opportunity to acquire this significant group of digital names in one single acquisition." Mercaldo adds, "The high value of local and hyper-local news and content that each City .com can generate has been long described as 'ocean front real estate' because these pure City brands in each marketplace can be positioned to serve large audiences for future generations to come. The credibility, natural type-in traffic, and the allure of residents to 'support and buy local' combined with the travel and tourism potential as well as the ability to generate Real Estate leads and transactions makes this portfolio a very attractive acquisition target for a savvy buyer. As the inevitable transition to digital news and media is happening, whoever has the best brand names will prove to be the big winners." Geocentric Media, Inc is looking to enter into discussions with major media companies, news organizations, VC and private equity companies that specialize in media and technology, political organizations, and many new companies that have embraced the future of digital publishing. For an Executive Summary and Offering Proposal, please contact Fred Mercaldo directly at Info@GeocentricMedia.com. Recent article about this portfolio appeared on Monday, May 6th in industry leading newsletter, DNJournal. http://www.dnjournal.com/archive/lowdown/2019/dailyposts/20190506.htm Lassi Koskinen, Vice President of Finance at M-Files, receives the Innovation Award from Ambroise Fayolle, Vice-President of the European Investment Bank M-Files Corporation, the intelligent information management company, today announced the company was recognized by the European Investment Bank (EIB) as one of the most innovative tech companies in Europe. M-Files received EIBs 2019 Innovation Award during the second annual EIB Venture Summit in Luxembourg, where leaders from Europe's most cutting-edge technology companies were gathered. M-Files was cited for its continued focus on driving innovation in information management and recognized for revolutionizing document management with its metadata-driven, repository neutral and AI-powered platform. The M-Files Intelligent Metadata Layer (IML) delivers a simple, unified experience powered by artificial intelligence for finding, accessing and managing information residing within any system in the cloud or on-premises. The EIB Innovation Award marks the latest milestone in our continued mission to change the way the world manages information, said Miika Makitalo, CEO at M-Files Corporation. "Our unique intelligent approach has inspired a fundamental shift in how organizations manage and use information and paved the way for heightened levels of productivity and efficiency across enterprises. We are proud to be recognized by the European Investment Bank with this distinguished award. The European Investment Bank (EIB) is the long-term lending institution of the European Union, owned by its Member States. The EIB is Europes largest provider of venture debt, with EUR 600 million per year in long-term financing for highly innovative companies. This innovative finance product aims at supporting early-stage, highly-innovative companies in Europe. Building on the success of the EIB venture debt activities, the bank organized its second annual event, held at EIB headquarters in Luxembourg, for businesses benefiting from EIBs venture debt financing. This year the summit brought together around 200 CEOs and CFOs of the portfolio companies, their private funds sponsors, financial advisors, the European Commission, EIB staff and media. Last year EIB signed a EUR 27 million financing agreement with M-Files to support international growth, R&D and technology leadership. The loan was made possible by the European Fund for Strategic Investments (EFSI), the central pillar of the Investment Plan for Europe, which was launched by the EIB Group and the European Commission to boost the competitiveness of the European economy. ### About M-Files Corporation M-Files provides a next-generation intelligent information management platform that improves business performance by helping people find and use information more effectively. Unlike traditional enterprise content management (ECM) systems or content services platforms, M-Files unifies systems, data and content across the organization without disturbing existing systems and processes or requiring data migration. Using artificial intelligence (AI) technologies in its unique Intelligent Metadata Layer, M-Files breaks down silos by delivering an in-context experience for accessing and leveraging information that resides in any system and repository, including network folders, SharePoint, file sharing services, ECM systems, CRM, ERP and other business systems and repositories. Thousands of organizations in more than 100 countries use M-Files for managing their business information and processes, including NBC Universal, OMV, Rovio, SAS Institute and thyssenkrupp. For more information, visit http://www.m-files.com. Media Contact: Webbo Chen 10Fold for M-Files 415-800-5367 m-files(at)10fold.com M.T. Sheehe has completed his book The Rocking Star: a riveting and classic Western tale bringing the life-and-death challenges, rewards, and simple pleasures of a bygone era to life. What drew men to the West? Redemption for past lives and hope to find self-satisfaction in a new land with a new beginning. Men drifted West after being mustered out of the service after the Civil War. Some were from a winning Army. Others were dressed in gray, also looking for a new way of life. Miners seeking fortune extracted from the Western earth. Homesteaders putting their hopes and dreams into the cultivation of a new land, one they could call their own. Men descending from the mountains when the time of the mountain man was over. Mere kids from the East believing the West was a land of adventure. Large sections of lands were staked out by ranchers willing to hold onto each blade of grass with every fiber of their being. The West was conquered by those with vision, sweat, and tenacity, those courageous enough to dare to dream. This is the story of such men. How they came to the Rocking Star Ranch and why they stayed. Men with sand, man with honor, men to ride the high range with. This is their story. Published by New York City-based Page Publishing, M.T. Sheehes book is a must-read for fans of classic Western literature. Readers who wish to experience this engaging work can purchase The Rocking Star at bookstores everywhere, or online at the Apple iTunes store, Amazon, Google Play, or Barnes and Noble. For additional information or media inquiries, contact Page Publishing at 866-315-2708. About Page Publishing: Page Publishing is a traditional New York-based, full-service publishing house that handles all the intricacies involved in publishing its authors books, including distribution in the worlds largest retail outlets and royalty generation. Page Publishing knows that authors need to be free to create - not overwhelmed with logistics like eBook conversion, establishing wholesale accounts, insurance, shipping, taxes, and the like. Its roster of accomplished authors and publishing professionals allows writers to leave behind these complex and time-consuming issues to focus on their passion: writing and creating. Learn more at http://www.pagepublishing.com. These noteworthy awardees join an already impressive line-up of speakers and participants at this years conference. With an unprecedented gathering of advocates, athletes, clinicians, and news makers in the heart of the nations capital, this years conference is one not to be missed. Mental Health America (MHA) will honor an impressive group of individuals, communications professionals and innovative programs at its 2019 Annual Conference, being held in Washington, DC on June 13-15. Throughout the three days MHA will present several awards and is happy to announce today the recipients of the Clifford W. Beers Award, our Mental Health Corporate Excellence Award, the Innovation in Programming Award, the Media Award, the youth-focused mPower Award, and the George Goodman and Ruth P. Brudney Social Work Award. MHAs Clifford W. Beers Award will be presented to mental health advocate Gregory Dicharry. The Clifford W. Beers Award is presented annually to an individual with the lived experience of mental illness who best reflects the example set by MHA founder Clifford W. Beers in his or her efforts to improve conditions for and attitudes toward people living with mental health conditions. Greg's experience as a peer, mental health professional, volunteer and film maker have had a huge impact on helping improve the lives of people living with mental health challenges. He is the national youth empowerment director at Magellan Health, and in his spare time produces and directs mental health-related documentary films to reduce stigma and help others find recovery. In 2008, Greg developed the MY LIFE (Magellan Youth Leaders Inspiring Future Empowerment) program, which is one of the nation's leading programs for youth who experience mental health, substance use and/or foster care-related challenges. MHAs 2019 Media Award recognizes journalists, authors, digital platforms, media outlets, television shows and filmmakers that have tackled the issues of mental illness and addiction and in doing so, have educated, informed, and broken down stigma and shame around these issues. This years recipients include six outstanding and diverse examples across multiple platforms: Amazon Studios for its feature film, Beautiful Boy, a powerful and emotional film about drug addiction starring Steve Carell, Timothee Chalamet, Maura Tierney, and Amy Ryan. Documentary filmmaker Roger Weisberg for his film, Broken Places, that dives into the complex question of why some children are severely impacted by early adversity while others are able to thrive. ABC Television for its show, A Million Little Things, which centers around a close circle of friends who must come to terms with a friends suicide. The show masterfully weaves in content that addresses depression, therapy, grief, and the intersection of physical illness and mental health. The Egg Gang, for its Instagram account @world_record_egg, which became a global phenomenon and an internet sensation within days of its creation. With millions following the account, the creators chose a big reveal to shine a light on the importance of mental health. Deseret News, for its series Generation Vexed, a year-long series out of Utah that examined why teens are more anxious than ever and how families and communities can help. WBFO-FM and lead journalist Eileen Buckley for their two-year Mental Health Initiative project, which provided in-depth coverage of mental health issues and helped build the mental health literacy of its community. MHAs 2019 George Goodman and Ruth P. Brudney Social Work Award this year goes to Kelley Kitley. Kelley is a psychotherapist and owner of 2 wellness businesses - Serendipitous Psychotherapy, LLC and reNew studio, LLC. Shes an Amazon Best Selling Author and Chicago Literary Legacy Honoree of 'MY self: An Autobiography of Survival." Shes shared her experience, strength, and hope on national media platforms including TODAY, Dr. Oz, Access Live, and Dr. Drew. Kitley is a TEDx speaker "I show my scars so others know I can heal," and expert contributor in hundreds of national publications. Her mission is to break the silence and stigma of mental health and addiction and give others hope that they too can heal. MHAs 2019 mPower Award goes to Zachary Mallory, a mental health and suicide prevention advocate from Kansas City, Missouri. Zachary is a suicide attempt survivor and a survivor of Conversion Therapy. He has been very active with local, state, and national legislation to urge stakeholders to raise awareness and take initiative to combat stigma surrounding suicide and mental health. Zachary is a former Human Rights Campaign (HRC) National Youth Ambassador and was awarded the 2016 Spirit of Matthew Award from the Matthew Shepard Foundation for his tireless efforts to erase hate and accelerate acceptance. MHAs Innovation in Programming Award, which recognizes the continuing innovation and creativity of the MHA affiliate network in program development and implementation, goes to MHA of Greater Houston for its Center for School Behavioral Health. The Center works with school districts to create trauma-informed environments and implement prevention and early intervention services. The Center is built on six pillars the School Behavioral Health Collaborative, the Best Practice Incubator, the Stigma Reduction Initiative, an Annual Conference, Professional Development, and Advocacy and Policy Analysis. Common points of entry into the Centers work include attending a professional development offering or the conference. In 2018, the Center trained almost 4,000 people through professional development, and the conference drew 650 attendees from 46 school districts. And this year, in partnership with One Mind, MHA will co-present the Mental Health Corporate Excellence Award to Booz Allen Hamilton. The award honors and recognizes corporations that demonstrate a commitment to its employees by offering programs, accommodations, and training that support mental health wellness in the workplace. Booz Allen Hamilton exemplifies its dedication to mental health by its commitment to maintaining a work environment that provides its 25,000+ employees with the tools they need to be their best, both physically and mentally. One of several examples is its extensive Employee Assistance Program (EAP) that supports mental health in multiple ways, including offering up to eight clinical counseling and/or crisis intervention sessions free of charge for employees, as well as their spouses, partners, and dependents. The Clifford W. Beers Award and the Mental Health Corporate Excellence Award will be presented on June 13 at MHAs Clifford W. Beers Awards Dinner. The Media Awards will be presented during MHAs Media Awards Luncheon on June 14, and the mPower Award, Innovation in Programming Award and the George Goodman and Ruth P. Brudney Social Work Award will be presented during an awards reception the evening of June 14. We look forward to gathering in Washington, DC this June and celebrating these amazing award winners, said Paul Gionfriddo, president and CEO of MHA. These noteworthy awardees join an already impressive line-up of speakers and participants at this years conference. With an unprecedented gathering of advocates, athletes, clinicians, and news makers in the heart of the nations capital, this years conference is one not to be missed. For more information and to register for the MHA 2019 Annual Conference, click here. Future students will benefit from the extensive expertise and knowledge of two renowned leaders in the industry Minor Hotels is delighted to announce the establishment of the Asian Institute of Hospitality Management in academic association with Les Roches Global Hospitality Education, ranked among the worlds top three higher education institutions for hospitality and leisure management. Set to launch in September 2020, with campuses in Bangkok and Chonburi in Thailand, the institute is poised to become the leading hospitality education facility in Southeast Asia and will offer certificates, diplomas and bachelor degrees in hospitality management in academic association with Les Roches. Les Roches follows the exceptional Swiss model of education and operates under the umbrella of Sommet Education, a hospitality education leader committed to delivering exceptional student experiences and developing the leaders of tomorrow. The Asian Institute of Hospitality Bachelor degree will be modelled after the Swiss education system and can be completed in seven semesters, or 3.5 years, combining classroom studies and practical training. Students who qualify will be offered opportunities to transfer to Les Roches campuses in Bluche, Switzerland and Marbella, Spain. The strategic decision to open campuses in both Bangkok and Chonburi, a coastal area lined with popular beaches, means the institute is well placed to support the needs of Thailands fast-growing tourism industry, particularly that of the Eastern Economic Corridor. Bridging the gap between an ever-increasing demand for experienced hospitality leaders and limited domestic supply, the institute will also be offering development training for hotel industry professionals. Our decision to partner with Les Roches stems partly from Minor Hotels rapid expansion, both domestically in Thailand and internationally - a growth spurt that sees us recruit over 6,000 additional staff members every year just to keep up with our expansion plan, commented Dillip Rajakarier, CEO of Minor Hotels. It also ties in with our vision to set up a world-class Thai hospitality institute independent of any hotel brand to provide best-in-class bachelors degree education for real-world application, in the context of a fast-evolving business environment, Rajakarier continued. We are happy to support Minor Hotels in addressing the regional need for specialised talent and expertise in the field of hotel management. Thailand is ranked in the top five global tourism destinations alongside France, Spain, Italy and the US, an ideal location for a hospitality education center, said Benoit-Etienne Domenget, CEO of Sommet Education. Future students will benefit from the extensive expertise and knowledge of two renowned leaders in the industry. We are very excited to embark on this partnership. About Les Roches Founded in 1954, Les Roches Global Hospitality Education is a private institution based on the Swiss model of experiential learning, offering undergraduate and graduate degrees in the fields of hospitality, tourism and event management. Les Roches prepares entrepreneurial and innovative graduates across a global network of campuses in Switzerland, Spain and China. Part of Sommet Education, Les Roches is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE). Les Roches is ranked number three of the worlds top institutions for hospitality and leisure management and number three worldwide for employer reputation (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2019). For more information, visit http://www.lesroches.edu About Sommet Education Sommet Education is a hospitality education group committed to delivering an exceptional student experience and developing the leaders of tomorrow. Its institutions Glion and Les Roches serve undergraduate and graduate students from more than 100 countries, providing an education built on academic rigour, skills-based learning and dynamic multicultural exposure. Sommet Education is the only education network with two hospitality institutions ranked among the worlds top four for hospitality education and among the worlds top three for employer reputation (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2019). For more information, visit http://www.sommet-education.com About Minor Hotels Minor Hotels is an international hotel owner, operator and investor currently with 518 hotels in operation. Minor Hotels passionately explores new possibilities in hospitality with a diverse portfolio of properties designed intelligently to appeal to different kinds of travellers, serving new passions as well as personal needs. Through our Anantara, AVANI, Oaks, Tivoli, M Collection, NH Collection, NH Hotels, nhow, Elewana, Marriott, Four Seasons, St. Regis, Radisson Blu and Minor International properties, Minor Hotels operates in 52 countries across Asia Pacific, the Middle East, Africa, the Indian Ocean, Europe, South America and North America. With dynamic plans to expand existing brands and explore strategic acquisitions throughout opportunistic markets, Minor Hotels pursues a vision of a more passionate and interconnected world. For more information, please visit http://www.minorhotels.com We want to create a strong neighborhood brewery and brand, says Brian Holton, co-owner. Were hoping to add depth to Louisvilles already thriving beer scene. Louisville brewpub Monnik Beer Co. is now canning two of their popular brews, Haucks American Pilsner and Monnik India Pale Ale (IPA). The canned beers will be available in local retailers by late May of 2019. Located in the heart of the Schnitzelburg neighborhood of Louisville, Monnik Beer Co. has been brewing craft beers and serving unique spins on Euro and American fare since 2015. Owners Brian Holton and Ian Luijk are committed to producing excellent beer and growing their presence in Kentuckys brewery community. Canning their beers was an obvious next step in their goals for the future. Canning has always been part of the plan, says Brian Holton, co-owner. We want to create a strong neighborhood brewery and brand. Canning is a way for us to get our product out in peoples hands and expand our reach beyond drafts. Monnik Beer Co. began the process of canning their beers in the fall of 2018 by initially using a mobile canner. The company has since moved away from outsourcing, having canned their first batch in-house in February. The canned beers are distributed through their partner, Dauntless Distributing. We've been a proud partner of Monnik before their first pint was poured and have had the pleasure to grow our business alongside theirs, said Michael Minton, owner of Dauntless Distributing. The development of their canning program is another exciting chapter in our collective story. The brewery chose to start with canning its two most popular brews, Hauck's American Pilsner, clean, crisp and drinkable, like the beers that built America, and their India Pale Ale (IPA), a juicy citrus flavor with an aroma of pine resin and tropical fruits and a solid, bitter foundation. These two fan-favorites will be available all year-round, and 6-packs are priced at $10.99. The cans design, created by artist Bryan Todd, includes icons and Dutch phrases that represent the companys core values. An icon depicting a shot-gun house with the Dutch word for home, gezelligheid, is a nod to the Germantown and Schnitzelberg neighborhoods and signifies the companys desire to foster a place of community within their taproom. The brewpub's name was inspired by the Dutch word for "monk," which embodies the intense focus and diligence Holton, Luijk, and the team brings to their craft. Holton says the company plans to continue canning more of its signature brews in the coming months, with the "Ginger Saison" slated for release this summer and the "His Dark Materials" stout for this winter. Monnik Beer Co. will also be sponsoring this years Coat Check Pool Party at American Turners-Louisville, where their new canned beer, the Coat Czech Pilsner, will make its debut. Were excited to connect with more people, says Holton. Were hoping to add depth to Louisvilles already thriving beer scene. Monnik Beer Co. offers a curated selection of 20 beers on tap featuring a mix of flagships, rotating seasonals and one-off brews, with a menu of delicious appetizers, burgers, and main courses inspired by American and European traditions. Excellent beer is what they do. For more information, visit https://monnikbeer.com. Media Contact: Ashley Shadburne, Director of Marketing hatfieldmedia.com ashley@hatfieldmedia.com Mykela Krieg, Marketing EDGE 2019 Rising Stars The Rising Stars Award recognizes the next generation of leaders and game-changers in the marketing sector, said Gretchen Littlefield, CEO of Moore DM Group. We are proud to have one of our own join this elite group who is disrupting the status quo. Moore DM Group, a leading provider of performance-driven marketing solutions, announced today that TCM Creative Vice President Mykela Krieg is among the Marketing EDGE 2019 Rising Stars to be honored at the EDGE Awards event on June 3, 2019 in New York. A nonprofit education organization, Marketing EDGE, is committed to educating, developing, growing and employing college students in the field of marketing. Each Rising Star honoree exemplifies outstanding leadership, innovation, creativity and a commitment to giving back through supporting marketing education. Krieg is recognized for her long-term strategic planning efforts for clients and for the adoption of cutting-edge techniques, including the Moore DM Group Neuro-Fundraising Lab, which utilizes cutting-edge biometric neurological equipment to deliver qualitative and quantitative campaign feedback for clients allowing them to increase the effectiveness of their fundraising efforts. I consider it an absolute honor to have been selected as one of this year's recipients of the Marketing EDGE Rising Star Award, said Krieg. Im passionate about fundraising and the impact our efforts have on the nonprofit organizations we serve. I am excited about the future and the increasing impact we can make through the growth of our Neuro-Fundraising Lab. TCM Creative President Tracy Trost credits Krieg as an integral party in the pioneering efforts of the Neuro-Fundraising Lab and applauds her work to bring science to the art of fundraising for clients. I was so pleased to learn of Mykelas Rising Star Award. It is well deserved, said Trost. Mykelas work is seldom seen by those outside our offices, but the effects of her work are felt by every one of our clients and the people they serve. The Rising Stars Award recognizes the next generation of leaders and game-changers in the marketing sector, said Gretchen Littlefield, CEO of Moore DM Group. We are proud to have one of our own join this elite group who is disrupting the status quo. For additional information about Marketing EDGE or the EDGE Awards, visit edgeawards.org. About TCM Creative: TCM Creative is an innovative video production company that creates television commercials and custom video content for national nonprofit organizations. With more than 50 years of combined experience in broadcast television and film, the leadership of TCM Creative has developed scientifically-derived key DRTV elements that influence each step of the creative process ensuring content that is compelling and powerful. About Moore DM Group: Moore DM Group is a global leader in direct response marketing focused on all facets of the consumer experience. Moore DM Group is comprised of 32 companies with more than 2,000 employees. The organization provides services including strategic consulting, creative development, media planning and buying, research and analytics, production management and product fulfillment, database services and public relations to nonprofit, association, commercial and government clients, and is a key contributor to strengthening these sectors. " NCBAC's Certified Alzheimer Caregiver Certification is one way we achieve a common level of training and knowledge among our caregiver team." Trilogy Health Services is a company that believes in the power of investing in its employees. Through its Fast Track Apprenticeship Program the company provides Trilogy team members with opportunities to expand their skill sets and grow their careers. The goal of the Fast Track Apprenticship Program is simple: to create the most well-trained and empathetic team of caregivers in the industry. The National Certification Board for Alzheimer and Aging Care is providing Certified Alzheimer Caregiver Certification CAC as a key element of the Trilogy program. As participants in the Fast Track Apprenticeship Program complete related coursework, receive impactful mentoring, perform on-the-job training and earn their CAC credential, they become eligible for incentives provided by Trilogy, including promotions and wage increases. NCBAC's Certified Alzheimer Caregiver Certification is based on extensive data gathered from caregivers throughout the country. This Job Task Analysis, which represents a true picture of the daily work being performed by caregivers, was then organized into a Content Guideline to inform training and create a blueprint for the certification examination. According to Todd Schmiedeler, PhD, Senior Vice President of the Trilogy Foundation, "Trilogy has an ongoing commitment to having the most competent caregiver team in the industry. NCBAC's Certified Alzheimer Caregiver Certification is one way we achieve a common level of training and knowledge among our caregiver team." Donna Surges Tatum, PhD, CAE, CAEd, President of NCBAC adds, "We're honored that Trilogy has selected our Certified Alzheimer Caregiver CAC for their Fast Track Apprenticeship Program. For more than a decade we've had a mission to help individuals achieve high standards in elder care. NCPDP NCPDP announced today highlights from its 2019 Annual Technology & Business Conference, themed Dare to Disrupt. The Opening Keynote Panel composed of executive leaders representing NACDS, NCPA and AACP examined Industry Disruptors. Moderating the panel was Joel White, Founder and President of Horizon Government Affairs, NCPDPs government and public affairs consultant. The panelists shared their unique perspectives on transformative disruption and innovation in business, technology and policy that hold promise for the future of pharmacy and that affect the broad membership across pharmacy industry associations. Dave deBronkart, aka e-Patient Dave, a cancer survivor and well-respected advocate for patient engagement, delivered Tuesdays luncheon keynote. Featured speaker, Doug Long, Vice President, Industry Relations, IQVIA, gave his highly anticipated IQVIA Market Trends Report on Wednesday morning. Jim Carroll, global futurist and trends and innovation expert, presented Wednesdays keynote address during NCPDPs Passing of the Gavel Luncheon. Other conference highlights include: NCPDP 2019-2020 Board of Trustees newly elected members took office: Michele Vilaret Davidson, R.Ph., NSC, Senior Manager, Pharmacy Technical Standards, Development & Policy, Walgreen Co.; Mark Gingrich, M.S., Chief Information Officer, Surescripts; and Gregory (Greg) S. Kaupp, J.D., MPA, MLT, Partner, Kaupp Advisors. NCPDP named Laurie Littlecreek, Vice President, Supply Chain Business Product Owner, Express Scripts, as recipient of its prestigious TIME (The Individual Member Excellence) Award. Thomas R. Bizzaro R.Ph., VP, Health Policy & Industry Relations, FDB (First Databank, Inc.) was presented the Benjamin D. Ward Distinguished Member Award. Sarah Daniel, PMP, Sr. Iteration Manager, Magellan Rx Management received the Rising Star Award. NCPDPs 2019 Champion Award was presented to Shelly Winston, MBA, Health Insurance Specialist, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS); and Doug Long, Vice President, Industry Relations, IQVIA. The NCPDP Foundation launched the 1977 Society as its inaugural donor program to support its annual fund campaign. In her State of the Association Report on Tuesday, NCPDP President & CEO, Lee Ann Stember, provided an update on NCPDPs Strategic Initiatives as well as a look at whats ahead for the organization, reinforcing NCPDPs commitment to leading the industry in healthcare standards and solutions for the common good. NCPDPs 2020 Annual Technology & Business Conference will be held May 4-6, 2020, at the Westin Kierland Resort & Spa in Scottsdale, Arizona About NCPDP Founded in 1977, NCPDP is a not-for-profit, ANSI-accredited, Standards Development Organization with more than 1,600 members representing virtually every sector of the pharmacy services industry. Our diverse membership provides leadership and healthcare business solutions through education and standards, created using the consensus building process. NCPDP has been named in federal legislation, including HIPAA, MMA, and HITECH. NCPDP members have created standards such as the Telecommunication Standard and Batch Standard, the SCRIPT Standard for ePrescribing, the Manufacturers Rebate Standard and more to improve communication within the pharmacy industry. Our data products include dataQ, a robust database of information on more than 80,000 pharmacies, resQ, an industry pharmacy credentialing resource, and HCIdea, an innovative prescriber database that provides continually updated information on more than 2.5 million prescribers. NCPDP's RxReconn is a legislative tracking product for real-time monitoring of pharmacy-related state and national legislative and regulatory activity. For more information about NCPDP Standards, Data Services, Products, Educational Programs and Work Group meetings, go online at http://www.ncpdp.org or call 480.477.1000. We are pleased to offer access to higher education, especially in rural areas. Supporting our rural partners is integral to our goal of solving the nursing shortage nationwide. Nightingale College, a fully-accredited distance institution of higher learning, is pleased to announce continued programmatic accreditation for its Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) Program. The Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) announced continued accreditation of the Colleges ADN Program for good cause as of April 26, 2019. This accreditation action is a recognition of Nightingale Colleges determination to continually improve the ADN program and its outcomes, and equip communities with home grown nurses, said Jonathan Tanner, Vice President of Partnerships for Nightingale College. We appreciate the ADN Programs ongoing partnership with the ACEN. The ADN Program has been programmatically accredited through the ACEN since January of 2014. The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program at Nightingale College is programmatically accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). The College is institutionally accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES), a national accreditor recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Nurses are in high demand, yet schools continue to reject well qualified nursing applicants due to limited program space. Nightingale College accepts all qualified applicants in the next open semester and provides access to nursing education in rural and underserved communities by forming partnerships with local health care providers. To prepare nursing professionals, the Colleges innovative Dedicated Distance Cohort (DDC) Model combines online coursework with hands-on experiential learning at partner facilities. We are pleased to offer access to higher education, especially in rural areas, said Blake Halladay, Senior Manager of Partnerships. Supporting our rural partners is integral to our goal of solving the nursing shortage nationwide. In addition to the hybrid-virtual 20-month ADN and 32-month BSN programs, Nightingale College also offers a 12-month post-licensure RN-to-BSN Program that can be completed entirely online. ABOUT NIGHTINGALE COLLEGE Nightingale College improves access to professional nursing education with its fully accredited distance education associate and bachelors degree nursing programs. Supporting the growing need for nurses and providing strategies to combat the nursing shortage, the Colleges programs work to not only grow but maintain homegrown nurses with the help of local health care systems. Nightingale College emphasizes graduating future nurses who are confident, competent and compassionate. Since its establishment in 2010 in Ogden, Utah, the College has graduated learners and contributed to strengthening the registered nurse workforce in Utah, Idaho, Nevada and Wyoming. To learn more about the College, its mission and programs, please visit nightingale.edu. Biometric technologies which play a key role in securing todays physical and digital identities are integral to the security industry and other areas like health care, law enforcement and air travel." Don Erickson, CEO, SIA Nominations are now being accepted for the 2019 Women in Biometrics Awards, co-founded by the Security Industry Association (SIA) and SecureIDNews and co-presented with sponsors Biometric Update, IDEMIA and SIAs Women in Security Forum. Winners of this years awards program will be recognized at the 2019 SIA GovSummit, held June 26-27 in Washington, D.C. The conference will also feature previous Women in Biometrics Awards recipients as part of a panel on government security applications for advanced biometric technologies. Biometric technologies which play a key role in securing todays physical and digital identities are integral to the security industry and other areas like health care, law enforcement and air travel, said SIA CEO Don Erickson. Women in Biometrics Awards winners are innovative women helping create a more secure world through these technologies, and SIA looks forward to welcoming the next class of awardees to this elite group. The Women in Biometrics Awards recognize top female leaders in the biometric identity and security industry. Nominees and past winners include those working for biometric companies, peripheral suppliers, system integrators, academia, government and security and IT departments at a variety of organizations. Now in its fifth year, the Women in Biometrics Awards have grown to become an internationally-recognized program, said Chris Corum, publisher of SecureIDNews. Biometrics is an increasingly important component of modern identity and security programs, and female leaders continue to pave the way forward. Each nominee should exemplify one or more of the following contributions to the industry: Leadership: Substantive and defining leadership in academic, public awareness, legislative and/or standards efforts Participation: Efforts that go above and beyond individual company walls and into the larger identity sphere Innovation: Pioneering product development, innovation or corporate start-up efforts Mentoring: Industry involvement sharing expertise and mentoring peers, thus growing the market The Women in Biometrics Awards have inspired a conversation about female leadership and the strength of diversity in the biometrics industry. The award, which is celebrating its fifth year, is providing more evidence of the significant professional and academic contributions women are making in the biometric technology fields, said Teresa Wu, vice president, strategic marketing and product management for North America at IDEMIA. Recognizing the accomplishments of female leaders motivates the next generation of women in technology. Nominations for the 2019 awards will be accepted until June 1; learn more and submit a nomination at womeninbiometrics.com. SIA GovSummit, the annual government security conference held by SIA, brings together government security leaders and private industry technologists for top-quality information sharing and education on security topics affecting federal, state and even local agencies. GovSummit 2019 will be held at the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center in Washington, D.C. Learn more about the 2019 conference including the full agenda, key topics and speakers and hotel and travel information and register at securityindustry.org/summit. About SIA SIA (securityindustry.org) is the leading trade association for global security solution providers, with nearly 1,000 innovative member companies representing thousands of security leaders and experts who shape the future of the security industry. SIA protects and advances its members interests by advocating pro-industry policies and legislation at the federal and state levels, creating open industry standards that enable integration, advancing industry professionalism through education and training, opening global market opportunities and collaborating with other like-minded organizations. As the premier sponsor of ISC Events expos and conferences, SIA ensures its members have access to top-level buyers and influencers, as well as unparalleled learning and network opportunities. SIA also enhances the position of its members in the security marketplace through SIA GovSummit, which brings together private industry with government decision makers, and Securing New Ground, the security industrys top executive conference for peer-to-peer networking. SIAs Women in Security Forum offers programs, networking and professional growth events and thought leadership opportunities to promote and advance the involvement of women in the security industry. Any employee of a SIA member company regardless of gender is eligible to join the forum. About SecureIDNews SecureIDNews is an industry-leading source for enterprise and government identity, credentialing and security markets published by AVISIAN. More than 30,000 subscribers and hundreds of thousands of web visitors get their ID technology news from AVISIANs suite of identity and security publications. About Biometric Update BiometricUpdate.com is the leading news property that publishes shareable breaking news, analysis and research about the global biometrics market. We provide the worlds leading news coverage and information on the global biometric technology market via the web and an exclusive daily newsletter. Our daily biometrics updates, industry perspectives, interviews, columns and in-depth features explore a broad range of modalities and methods, from fingerprint, voice, iris, and facial recognition to cutting-edge technologies like DNA analysis and gait recognition, related identification tools such as behavioral biometrics, and non-biometric identification methods such as identity document verification and telephone forensics. Our coverage touches on all applications and issues dealt with in the sector, including national security, mobile identity, and border control, with a special emphasis on UN Sustainable Development Goal 16.9 to provide universal digital identification and the ID4Africa movement. Our global audience of 700k+ readers includes governments, law enforcement agencies, financial institutions and many other other vertical industries along with OEMs, service providers, system integrators, enterprise and industry professionals. About IDEMIA IDEMIA, the global leader in Augmented Identity, provides trusted technology enabling citizens and consumers alike to perform their daily critical activities (such as pay, connect, travel and vote), in the physical as well as digital space. Securing our identity has become mission critical in the world we live in today. By standing for Augmented Identity, an identity that ensures privacy and trust and guarantees secure, authenticated and verifiable transactions, we reinvent the way we think, produce, use and protect one of our greatest assets our identity whether for individuals or for objects, whenever and wherever security matters. We provide Augmented Identity for international clients in the financial, telecom, identity, public security and IoT sectors. With 13,000 employees around the world, IDEMIA serves clients in 180 countries. For more information, visit idemia.com. Nutradried Food Company Names Shine United Agency Of Record "Im tremendously excited about what Shine will bring to the table to help us drive growth. NutraDried Food Company has named Shine United agency of record for the Moon Cheese brand. Moon Cheese is a crunchy, high protein snack made only of cheese. This all natural, 100% cheese product requires no refrigeration to make it easy to eat on-the-go. Shine United, a full-service advertising, design and digital agency based in Madison, Wisconsin, will be responsible for creating differentiation for Moon Cheese within the snack category, identify potential growth opportunities for the brand and increase sales of the product. Ive long admired Shines work in helping transform and elevate brands across many marketing categories and channels, said Mike Pytlinski, CEO of NutraDried Food Company. They have been leading our foundational brand research initiative over the past few months and have proven to be smart, strategic, creative and a great partner overall. Im tremendously excited about what Shine will bring to the table to help us drive growth. The engagement will be focused, among other projects, on packaging redesign, social media management, digital advertising and a new website. The goal of these projects will be to raise awareness within a crowded snack field and to increase consideration and trial among potential consumers. As an agency, were always looking for brands that are on the cusp of something big, said Curt Hanke, Shine founder and CEO. Moon Cheese is exactly that a phenomenal product poised for tremendous growth. We are truly fired up about the opportunity to help crystallize this brand and catapult it forward. About NutraDried Food Company NutraDried Food Company LLC, based in Ferndale, Washington State, is a wholly-owned subsidiary of EnWave Corporation that is leveraging REV technology to produce innovative snack food products. NutraDried was the first partner of the Company to take REVdried snack cheese to market at commercial scale. Operating primarily in the dairy vertical, NutraDried manufactures the clean label snack, Moon Cheese. This 100% crunchy-cheese-snack product is sold across the United States through over 25,000 retail stores. For more information on NutraDried Food Company, please visit http://www.mooncheese.com. About Shine United Shine United is a $41 million advertising, design and interactive agency located in Madison, Wisconsin. The privately held companys client roster includes national consumer brands such as Harley-Davidson, Wisconsin Cheese, GORE-TEX, Amazon.com, UW Health, Quartz health plans, Veridian Homes and LaCrosse Footwear. Shine is an environment where creativity, brilliance and teamwork are allowed to flourish part of the reason we have been included in the best places to work in America by Outside Magazine the past six years. Learn more at ShineUnited.com. Shine On. ConnectX OneVizion created these preconfigured packages to give customers the fastest route to a successful OneVizion implementation and the fastest route to a competitive advantage. OneVizion, a leading provider of information management solutions for the telecom industry, announced today the release of three new preconfigured packages. Designed to help new customers achieve operational outcomes faster than ever by quickly migrating their data and projects into the powerful OneVizion platform, these packages will be demoed at the Connectivity Expo from May 20-23 in Orlando, Fla. Conference attendees can catch an in-depth demo at Booth 815 or at the OneVizion Innovation Center on Wednesday, May 23 from 12-5 PM in the Bayhill 19 meeting room. The packages include: Data and Document Management: This package includes all core functionality and helps clients struggling to manage shared spreadsheets and closeout packages and/or who find their project deliverables rejected at a high frequency. Project Management: Includes all functionality in the previous package and adds work plan functionality for your new build and site mod projects, so you can focus on running successful projects instead of looking for errors in your data. Enterprise Program Management: Includes all functionality in the previous packages along with advanced features to give you comprehensive functionality for workflows, projects, financials, and logistics across your large, geographically dispersed programs. For the OneVizion team, there was a clear demand for even faster implementation times in todays hyper-competitive telecom industry. OneVizion created these preconfigured packages to give customers the fastest route to a successful OneVizion implementation and the fastest route to a competitive advantage, said John Patton, CEO of OneVizion. As telecom services and infrastructure companies face the new challenges of densification by the carriers to support 5G, its critical that they leverage innovative technology solutions to efficiently deploy new network elements as well as efficiently manage network infrastructure assets. These packages help them get there faster. To learn more about these exciting new offers, read OneVizions latest blog article here. About OneVizion OneVizion rapidly provides the information that matters to the people that need it the most. Based in Atlanta, OneVizion has worked for 18 years to solve the biggest information management problems facing the telecom industry. With the powerful OneVizion Platform, they are providing comprehensive solutions for todays 5G challenges, from asset, document and project management to field workforce management and real-time video collaboration tools. Visit OneVizion.com to learn more. Media interview available upon request. Patrick Hogan, CEO and Founder of CMB Regional Centers Patrick has always instilled the philosophy of putting the CMB EB-5 investors goals in front of his own. CMB is proud to say they have followed the original intent of Congress and have focused on truly high unemployment areas and have never gerrymandered a targeted employment area (TEA). Patrick Hogan, CEO and Founder of CMB Regional Centers (CMB), has been involved in the EB-5 investor visa program since 1994, which makes him one of the most experienced EB-5 practitioners in the industry today. In fact, Patrick has been involved in the EB-5 program since the first regional centers were approved by the INS (Immigration and Nationalization Service). CMB Export, LLC was first approved back in 1997 and now CMB operates 16 regional centers with geographic scope in 22 states and Washington D.C. Patrick is recognized as a pioneer in the EB-5 industry as CMB has led the industry with many firsts, including the utilization of the EB-5 loan model. CMB has developed many of todays normal industry practices. Patricks long history in EB-5 started with assisting local government agencies revitalize six former military bases in California closed due to the Base Realignment and Closure Act (BRAC). The military bases in CMBs regional center geographic scope were George Air Force Base, Norton Air Force Base, Mather Air Force Base, Sacramento Army Depot, McClellan Air Force Base and the realigned March Air Force Base. The original CMB EB-5 investment concept focused on job creation in the communities that were devastated by the loss of the main source of employment in the communities: the military base. These California military base closures were devastating to the surrounding communities in which they resided, which resulted in the loss of tens of thousands of jobs associated with the operation of these former military bases. To date, CMB under the direction of Patrick and with an incredibly professional staff, has undertaken 68 separate EB-5 partnerships that have helped fund 177 separate job creating projects across the United States. CMB has raised over $2.8 billion in EB-5 investment capital that has been combined with more than $12 billion in public and private funds, which has helped create and restore a very conservative projected 172,000+ new American jobs (over 200,000 if counting direct jobs). The EB-5 program was originally created by the U.S. Congress to stimulate investment and job creation with a focus on high unemployment areas in the United States with no taxpayers money used. Patrick has always instilled the philosophy of putting the CMB EB-5 investors goals in front of his own. CMB is proud to say they have followed the original intent of Congress and have focused on truly high unemployment areas and have never gerrymandered a targeted employment area (TEA). CMB has always believed that when an area was not a qualified TEA we would raise EB-5 funds at the $1 million level. To date, CMB has a 100% project approval rate from the USCIS and has been able to help over 4,700 investors and their families receive an I-526 approval, which allows them to apply for a conditional U.S. permanent residency visa at their consulate interview or apply for an adjustment of status if they are already living in the United States on another visa. CMB has been able to help nearly 1,200 EB-5 investors achieve an I-829 approval, which removes the conditions on the visa allows the investor and their family to live in the United States permanently. CMB partnerships have been able to return capital to nearly 1,000 EB-5 investors to date. CMB was the first regional center to have each of its EB-5 partnerships audited from inception by a third-party national accounting firm, BKD LLP. Not only are each of the CMB EB-5 partnerships financials audited according to GAAP, BKD also audits the immigration statistics, thereby setting a standard in transparency for the EB-5 industry. It is with great pride that the whole CMB family congratulates Patrick Hogan on this Lifetime Achievement Award. Patrick has gone above and beyond for every CMB EB-5 investor and their family members to make sure they all have the best shot at receiving a permanent green card to live in the United States. Through Patricks leadership, CMB and our EB-5 investor partnerships have made a difference in the U. S. economy with the creation of tens of thousands of U.S. jobs. This is an amazing accomplishment and Patrick will be the first to tell you it is not one person rather a team of very dedicated competent and professional people that have actually achieved this honor. phoenixNAP and Telxius "phoenixNAP offers us resources to establish our presence in an area that is strategic for us in order to better serve the US West Coast and Latin America as well as adding new points of presence to our global network of advanced IP, capacity, and colocation services." phoenixNAP, a global IT services provider offering security-focused cloud infrastructure, dedicated servers, colocation, and specialized Infrastructure-as-a-Service (IaaS) technology solutions, today announced the upcoming deployment of Telxius, the telecommunication infrastructure company of the Telefonica Group, to its data center in Phoenix, Arizona. This deployment will provide phoenixNAPs clients with access to Telxius Tier 1 IP network, while Telxius will benefit from additional interconnectivity points to its global network. With its extensive global footprint and recently established transatlantic cable MAREA and BRUSA, the lowest latency and highest capacity subsea cables ever deployed in the Atlantic, Telxius is a global leader in providing low latency and high capacity cable services, in addition to IP, colocation and security services. Its infrastructure includes more than 87,000 km of fiber optics connecting principal exchange points in the U.S., Latin America, Europe, and Africa. Being a Tier 1 ISP, Telxius will provide quality Internet Transit to the customers in the data center. Through phoenixNAPs global data center network, Telxius will further improve its connectivity to support the growing needs for high-speed network services. The establishment of Telxius will provide our clients with access to additional global fiber routes for minimized latency and ultra-high performance, said Ian McClarty, president at phoenixNAP. As an infrastructure company, Telxius will significantly boost our capacity to support global businesses and organizations that handle latency-sensitive or demanding cloud applications. We are excited about this collaboration and are looking forward to developing a closer business relationship with Telxius. phoenixNAPs carrier-neutral data center in Phoenix enables organizations to directly connect to over thirty major network, bandwidth, and telecom providers in the world, including AWS Direct Connect. With such diverse carrier options and strategically positioned global nodes, phoenixNAP is one of the major interconnectivity hubs in Phoenix. Its strategic location, expert staff, and modern facility were some of the main reasons why Telxius selected it for its expansion. We are looking forward to working with phoenixNAP and unveiling new opportunities in the local market, said Enrique Valdes, VP of Sales, Northern Region, at Telxius. phoenixNAP offers us resources to establish our presence in an area that is strategic for us in order to better serve the US West Coast and Latin America as well as adding new points of presence to our global network of advanced IP, capacity, and colocation services. We will closely work with their expert staff on promoting new interconnection opportunities, network security, and data center resilience incorporating subsea enablement. About phoenixNAP phoenixNAP is a global IT services provider with a focus on cybersecurity and compliance-readiness, whose progressive Infrastructure-as-a-Service solutions are delivered from strategic edge locations worldwide. Its cloud, dedicated servers, hardware leasing, and colocation options are built to meet always evolving IT businesses requirements. Providing comprehensive disaster recovery solutions, DDoS-protected global network, hybrid IT deployments with software and hardware-based security, phoenixNAP fully supports its clients business continuity planning. Offering scalable and resilient opex solutions with expert staff to assist, phoenixNAP supports growth and innovation in businesses of any size enabling their digital transformation. About Telxius Telxius is the infrastructure company of the Telefonica Group. It manages an international network of 87,000 km of high capacity fiber optic submarine cables, including the two lowest latency and highest capacity systems in the world, MAREA and BRUSA, both already open for business. MAREA, a joint project with Microsoft and Facebook, is the highest-capacity submarine cable to ever cross the Atlantic. With its 11,000 km and cutting-edge technology, BRUSA links the United States and Brazil. SAM-1, PCCS, and UNISUR represent additional high capacity routes that link the United States and Latin America. In addition, Telxius has over 16,700 telecommunications towers in six countries, featuring one of the most extensive tower catalogues in the world, effectively serving customers as the leading tower company in Spain, Germany and Argentina and as a main provider in Brazil, Chile and Peru. President Juliana Choy Sommer Receives Small Business Award from State Senator Scott Wiener "San Francisco's Leader in Architectural Graphics and Signage Since 1995" Priority Architectural Graphics, San Franciscos leader in architectural graphics and signage has announced a new growth strategy as it continues to expand its reach within the Bay Area residential market-rate housing, commercial office market, retail and technology sectors. As it approaches its 25th anniversary, the company is poised to take on increased design, fabrication and installation work in both the public and private sectors and has already been tapped to work on high-profile projects such as the Golden State Warriors Chase Stadium among others. Already known for its ability to deliver excellence in client service to hundreds of construction companies seeking signage sub-contractors, the experienced team at Priority has extended its capabilities over time to include LED-lit signage, Laser Engraving, Catalyzed Paint Technology and CNC Router cutting. The company will expand its offerings in 2019 with several new initiatives planned for growth across industry sectors from education, housing, transportation, retail, and government to healthcare. The company recently promoted key talent to new leadership positions including Mike Adams, VP of Production and Maria Santana as VP of Projects. Last year, Priority Architectural Graphics completed a comprehensive rebranding with the launch of a new website and logo promoting the companys strong track record and innovative, strategic vision as it looks to the future. The company plans to further expand its industry reach via increased digital marketing, social media and e-marketing in 2019 and 2020. Last June, Priority Graphics was recently recognized by State Senator Scott Wiener and nominated as San Franciscos awardee for California Small Business Day 2018. California Small Business Day event was created in 2000 to honor individual small business leaders and promote small business organizations throughout the state. The event honored a select group of 70+ companies out of the approximately 3 million businesses and organizations that help fuel 75% of the states economy and over half the states private sector jobs. Company Founder and President, Juliana Choy Sommer noted, Priority Graphics has been the preferred partner of general contractors and construction industry leaders in San Francisco for over 20 years. Our strong relationships with project approval and certification authorities together with our union installers give us a unique edge when it comes to delivering projects on time and on budget. We also believe strongly in innovation and have invested in an intra-company communications platform as well as Plangrid project management software to ensure real time collaboration across our extended team. Were looking forward to deepening our relationships across the construction industry and continuing our growth as we move forward into 2019 and look toward 2020. Vicki Bamba at Clark Construction talks about what its like to work with the team at Priority Graphics. For more information about Priority Graphics, please visit http://www.prioritygraphics.com and learn more about the company. About Priority Architectural Graphics Founded in 1995, Priority Architectural Graphics is San Franciscos leader in exterior and interior architectural signage and graphics. With over 500 clients spanning across the public and private sector in housing, government, transportation, education, healthcare and retail, Priority Architectural Graphics streamlines the design, production and installation process for signage, saving construction companies valuable time and money, reducing project delays and meeting critical project approval deadlines. The team at Priority leverages their deep experience and strong relationships with certification agencies and union installers to over deliver for its clients and continues a strong tradition of innovation in both sign fabrication techniques and client-company real-time collaboration. This acquisition will expand Prodeges total consumer-rewards membership base beyond 100 million registered members worldwide. Prodege, LLC parent company of multiple online consumer-rewards platforms announced today that it has acquired leading rewards company CotterWeb Enterprises, Inc., which operates the successful rewards sites InboxDollars.com and SendEarnings.com in the United States, DailyRewards.com in Canada, and InboxPounds.co.uk in the United Kingdom. This acquisition will expand Prodeges total consumer-rewards membership base beyond 100 million registered members worldwide. Headquartered in Mendota Heights, Minnesota (a suburb of Minneapolis-St. Paul), CotterWeb will continue to operate its brands under the leadership of Founder and CEO Daren Cotter and his experienced executive team and staff. The acquisition means that online retailers, advertisers, and market research partners can now conveniently access both Prodeges existing sites and the CotterWeb sites in order to achieve greater scale and performance. Members of the CotterWeb sites will experience no significant changes other than expanded opportunities to earn rewards in the coming months. "Given the dramatic growth in our own shopping, offers and surveys businesses over the past few years, we recognized the unique opportunity to join forces with this well-respected company to further elevate our trajectory and create an enterprise business profile that is extremely well diversified," said Chuck Davis, CEO and Chairman of Prodege, LLC. "We're excited to bring InboxDollars and its successful sites into the Prodege family, and we look forward to working with Daren and his team to help them achieve even greater success in the future." With the acquisition, Prodege will benefit from InboxDollars' popular cash-back rewards program, delivering additional value and sales opportunities to major online retailers and national advertisers. In addition, InboxDollars millions of consumers in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom will enhance the scale and breadth of Prodege's leading market research panel in those countries. Were thrilled to join the Prodege family, said CotterWeb CEO Daren Cotter. From starting InboxDollars in my college dorm room to assembling a first-class team and scaling to more than $25 million in annual revenue with no outside capital, and now to joining forces with Prodeges impressive platform of rewards sites, its been an exciting journey. Together well be a one-stop shop for the worlds savviest shoppers, online merchants, advertisers, and market research partners. About Prodege, LLC Prodege (pro-de-gee) is an internet and media company that is dedicated to creating rewarding moments for its members by rewarding them with more than $700 million in cash and free gift cards since inception. Prodege is now comprised of four consumer brands Swagbucks, MyPoints, ShopAtHome, and InboxDollars which deliver engaging content and valuable rewards to more than 100 million members worldwide. Prodege's complementary suite of business solutions helps brands boost engagement with consumers by making it easy to gather insights, listen to their audience and gain further exposure to drive brand loyalty. Visit http://www.prodege.com for more information. Remote Learner, a provider of custom elearning solutions, today unveiled a refreshed brand that reflects the continued evolution of the companys expertise, tools, and partnerships. Ron Olsen, Chief Executive Officer of Remote Learner, said about the new brand, Our rebrand is an acknowledgement of our evolution. We are a very different company than we were just a few years ago, with different expertise, new platforms, new technology tools, new partners, and a breadth of new understanding. These changes have largely been unfolding behind the scenes with a very deliberate focus on driving impact for our clients. Now were excited to share our good work with the rest of the industry and welcome new organizations into the Remote Learner community. Olsen continued, Our new brand is about living our new tagline: Bigger Ideas. Smarter Training. Greater Impact. Remote Learner President and Chief Innovation Officer Dr. Page Chen added, The subtle change from our old logo to our new logo makes a very powerful statement about who we are and what we do. We truly connect the dots for clients with every solution we build with them. Headquartered in Denver, CO, and providing services throughout North America, Remote Learners success is largely attributable to its on-staff expertise and the expanding professional services offerings available to its clients. Tools alone arent enough to deliver on the promise of high quality, engaging elearning. The company sees it as essential to pair effective tools with expert services to ensure that its clients desired outcomes are achieved. Remote Learners in-house experts have also aided the development of new technology tools and solutions that meet evolving market needs. The Remote Learner brand refresh includes a redesign of the companys website, logo and color scheme, communications, and correspondence. The new brand will be debuted alongside an expanded conference presence May 20-22, 2019 at ATD 2019 in Washington, D.C. About Remote Learner: Remote Learner designs, delivers, and supports fully integrated elearning solutions that drive impact. Remote-Learners team of experts embraces a hybrid best-of-breed approach, partnering with industry-leading providers to accelerate delivery in key functional areas, while employing proprietary persuasive design strategies, tools and techniques to deliver solutions uniquely tailored to the needs of its clients. Learn more about how Remote Learner partners with businesses, academic institutions, government, association, and non-profit organizations to deliver results that make a positive impact for over nine million learners at http://www.remote-learner.com. Single Digits, Inc. announced today that it has completed the acquisition of the guest Wi-Fi business of Resolute Partners. As part of the acquisition, Single Digits will now provide High-Speed Internet Access (HSIA) to approximately 100 additional locations in the hospitality, Multi-Dwelling Units (MDU) healthcare, and government sectors throughout the US. Additionally, the former Summit Technology team and Burlington, VT office will join the Single Digits family. Single Digits is excited to welcome the newly acquired customers onto the Broadband Authentication Platform (BAP), the companys award-winning software platform, which will provide each account with additional flexibility and a suite of advanced guest management features and functionality. Additionally, all customer locations will now be supported by more than 200 technicians located in its bi-coastal 24x7x365 Network Operations Center. The acquisition of the guest Wi-Fi business of Resolute Partners will add new large hotel and government customers to the Single Digits family, says Steve Singlar, President and CEO of Single Digits. We are committed to providing a seamless transition and an outstanding customer experience for these new customers. Were also pleased and excited that key members of the Resolute Partners team will join Single Digits, bringing new talent and expertise. "Were excited to have closed this transaction with Single Digits, which is a truly extraordinary company. Single Digits really understands our customers needs and we are confident that they will provide the same outstanding level of service that our customers have enjoyed, says Michael Blanco, CEO and Founder of Resolute Partners. Resolute will continue to provide high security wireless, cybersecurity services and managed video surveillance to commercial and government customers. Along with premium hotels and resorts in the Northeast, Resolute Partners has built a business providing services to state and federal government customers throughout the U.S. and has been responsible for keeping its Wi-Fi networks on the cutting-edge of performance and reliability. Single Digits was recently acquired by GI Partners, a leading private equity firm. This is the second acquisition under GI Partners ownership. About RESOLUTE Partners Established in 1997, RESOLUTE Partners is a Connecticut-based firm who engineers, installs, operates and maintains a complete range of Internet access and data communications solutions for government and commercial enterprises around the world, including hospitals, education facilities, military installations and office parks. Their networks support guest Wi-Fi, rural broadband access and energy management systems. The company offers an enhanced experience for end users, improve operating efficiencies, reduce costs and create new business opportunities for customers or our contracting partners. About Single Digits Single Digits is a leading provider of High-Speed Internet Access management and support solutions. The company offers a complete guest internet solution, including components of IP network design, engineering, professional services, ongoing maintenance, networking monitoring, multi-lingual support, revenue reporting and authentication tracking. Single Digits currently serves over 1,600 customers across the hospitality, student housing, MDU, transportation, and other end markets. About GI Partners GI Partners is a private investment firm based in San Francisco. The firm has raised over $17 billion in capital from leading institutional investors across the globe. GI Partners private equity team focuses on investments in the IT Infrastructure, Healthcare, Software, and Services sectors. For more information on GI Partners and its entire portfolio, please visit http://www.gipartners.com. We are thrilled to see this project come to fruition. We believe The Coupon Bureau will support the connectivity needed to unite our industry, and provide a utility that will carry the coupon industry into the future. commented the Co-chairs of the JICC. The Joint Industry Coupon Committee (JICC) co-chairs, Mary Oster, Target and Jackie Broberg, General Mills announced the Single Source Vendor for Universal Digital Coupon Solution selection in a general session at the Industry Coupon Conference. Fort Worth, Texas based non-profit, The Coupon Bureau (TCB) has been selected to provide a Universal Coupon Solution. The selection process was completed after project requirements and standards were identified, an RFP was released, and an extensive evaluation of submittals coming from a wide-range of industry service providers and technology companies. This JICC/ACP led project began three years ago with the mission to solve the challenges around retailer agnostic mobile coupons and coupon fraud in the industry. The selection is endorsed by the leading industry associations: Joint Industry Coupon Committee, Food Marketing Institute, Grocery Manufacturers Association and Association of Coupon Professionals. The Coupon Bureau will provide the industry with connectivity to a Universal Positive Offer file that will house all distributed, serialized coupons available for redemption. Operated as a non-profit, TCB will provide the agnosticism and industry oversight required to connect all coupon industry stakeholders. Connectivity to the Universal Positive Offer file will enable retailer agnostic mobile coupons, support smarter and more strategic campaigns, mitigate fraud and simplify the redemption and reconciliation processes. We are thrilled to see this project come to fruition. We believe The Coupon Bureau will support the connectivity needed to unite our industry, and provide a utility that will carry the coupon industry into the future. commented the Co-chairs of the JICC. Industry testing has been completed and the solution is prepared for retailer, clearinghouse and service provider connectivity. This open market solution will fuel new innovation for manufacturer coupon tools across all retail verticals. About The Coupon Bureau: The Coupon Bureau is an open-market platform connecting all stakeholders to the new Universal Positive Offer File. We help support smarter promotions and enable the ongoing growth of the industry. This allows all current stakeholders to maintain their current business functions and expand those by utilizing The Coupon Bureau connectivity. For more information, visit http://www.thecouponbureau.org/ About the Association of Coupon Professionals: The Association of Coupon Professionals is an industry trade organization whose over 60 manufacturer, retailer and solution provider members, create a forum that fosters expertise, education, and leadership to enrich the development, distribution, and redemption of coupons, ensuring they remain a viable sales and marketing tool. Employee development is one of the cornerstones at Smith, and we are proud to offer unique learning opportunities for all departments and ranks. Smith, a global distributor of electronic components and semiconductors, today announces that its e-learning program has earned a Bronze Award in Chief Learning Officer magazines prestigious LearningElite awards. Judges critiqued Smiths e-learning platform, Smith University, based on its ability to efficiently deploy business strategies that produce significant results. Smith University is used internally to train employees and help them to further develop their careers. All courses are offered online and designed to strengthen employees industry knowledge and skillsets. Smith managers and industry experts lead various courses across the platform in video lessons that teach Smiths leading approach to delivering global supply chain solutions. Bringing in these subject-matter experts (SMEs) from within Smith not only spotlights their knowledge but also encourages more collaboration across the company and empowers employees to see Smith University as being truly their own platform. When building the platform, we wanted to invest in the best technology that can provide personalized learning experiences to each of our employees, said Dr. Lisa Cairns, Smiths Director of E-Learning. LearningElite recognized the vision we have and that were building towards now with our strategic use of machine learning to implement artificial intelligence in upcoming quarters. By incorporating Smith SMEs as the core voice of Smith University, empowering employees through dedicated learning paths, and building extensive dashboard capabilities into the platform, Smith was able to increase learner enrollment by 828% in under 12 months. Employee enrollment in Smith University began 18 months ago and has already exceeded expectations by offering new course series monthly and delivering engaging content curated by Smiths experts from across its global offices and various positions in the company. Employee development is one of the cornerstones at Smith, and we are proud to offer unique learning opportunities for all departments and ranks, said Mark Bollinger, Smiths Chief Globalization Officer. Over the past year, our team has worked diligently to ensure the success of this platform, so winning a Bronze Award from LearningElite is truly an honor. About Smith Founded in 1984, Smith sources, manages, and distributes the electronic components that go into everything from mobile phones and computers to appliances and directional drilling systems. In 16 cities around the world, from Silicon Valley to Seoul, Smiths legion of employees communicates in 50 different languages and dialects and buys and sells components 24 hours per day, with global annual sales of $1.66 billion. Smith is always moving: helping manufacturers navigate market shifts; customizing supply chain solutions; testing components using cutting-edge technology. With testing and logistics hubs in Houston, Hong Kong, and Amsterdam, Smiths processes focus on critical issues, from quality management to counterfeit prevention and environmental safety. Smiths operations, purchasing, and sales worldwide are seamlessly integrated with the companys global IT infrastructure, offering real-time inventory and logistics visibility anywhere in the world. Smith is the leading independent distributor of electronic components and ranks number eight among all global distributors. Smiths Intelligent Distribution model adapts to ever-changing demands by providing reliable global electronics sourcing and logistics, regardless of distribution channel or locale. For more information, please visit https://www.smithweb.com, or, to reach a Smith representative 24 hours a day, please call +1 713.430.3000. McCann & Wall, LLC is pleased to share that co-founders and partners, Robert E. McCann and Brian A. Wall, Jr. have been honored by Super Lawyers for 2019. Both attorneys have been bestowed this prestigious honor each consecutive year since 2007. Super Lawyers chooses peer nominated attorneys using a patented multiphase selection process. Candidates are evaluated via peer review and independent research based on 12 indicators of success. Selections are made on an annual, state-by-state basis. The goal is to provide the public with high quality recommendations in every area of law. Robert E. McCann is a member of the Delaware County, Pennsylvania and the New Jersey Bar Associations. In addition to his recognition by Super Lawyers, he has also been honored by the National Trial Lawyers as one of the top 100 Trial Lawyers. Mr. McCann practices law in both Pennsylvania and New Jersey, and is admitted to practice in the United States Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit, the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania and the New Jersey District Court. Brian A. Wall, Jr. is a member of the Philadelphia County, Pennsylvania and New Jersey Bar Associations. Mr. Wall practices law in both Pennsylvania and New Jersey, and is admitted to practice in the United States Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit, the United States District Courts for the Eastern and Middle Districts of Pennsylvania, and the New Jersey District Court. Brian A. Wall, Jr. and Robert E. McCann are part of a team of seasoned trial lawyers at McCann & Wall, LLC who are dedicated to protecting the rights of those who have suffered physical and emotional harm at the hands of others. The firm practice focuses primarily upon personal injury litigation, including automobile negligence, work-related accidents, and premises liability. Their tenacity and fearlessness have won their clients multi-million-dollar settlements. For more information, visit their website or call 215-569-8488 to arrange a free consultation. The firm has offices in Philadelphia, South Jersey, and Delaware to assist clients in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware. Connect with us on Facebook | Twitter | LinkedIn Tata & Howard, Inc. celebrates Drinking Water Week and encourages locals to get to know the source of their water. Knowing the source of our water and keeping it clean is critical and we hope Drinking Water Week will serve as an opportunity for everyone to learn more about this vital piece of our daily lives. As Drinking Water Week continues, Tata & Howard joins the American Water Works Association and water professionals across North America in encouraging water consumers to get to know their local H2O. Finding information about local water is simple. As required by the Safe Drinking Water Act, water utilities must provide customers with an annual water quality report, also called a Consumer Confidence Report (CCR). A CCR identifies the quality of local drinking water and if any contaminants are detected and if so, which ones. Also available in the report is information on a communitys local source for drinking water. The city of Marlborough, MA, home to Tata & Howards headquarters, uses an average of 4 million gallons of water a day. Currently, 100 percent of the water is supplied by the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority (MWRA). Additionally, information on local source water is available through the U.S. Environmental Protection Agencys Hows My Waterway? "As engineers in the water space, water is at the heart of everything we do," said Tata & Howard Co-President, Karen Gracey, P.E.. Knowing the source of our water and keeping it clean is critical and we hope Drinking Water Week will serve as an opportunity for everyone to learn more about this vital piece of our daily lives. More information about local water sources is available on DrinkTap.org. About Drinking Water Week For more than 40 years, AWWA and its members have celebrated Drinking Water Week, a unique opportunity for both water professionals and the communities they serve to join together in recognizing the vital role water plays in daily lives. Additional information about Drinking Water Week, including free materials for download and celebration ideas, is available on the Drinking Water Week webpage. # Founded in 1992, Tata & Howard, Inc. is a 100% employee-owned water, wastewater, stormwater, and environmental services consulting engineering firm dedicated to consistently delivering innovative, cost-effective solutions in the water environment. Tata & Howard has gained a solid reputation as an industry leader in the Northeast by bringing knowledge, integrity, and dedicated service to all-sized markets, both public and private. The firm has offices in Massachusetts, Connecticut, Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont and Arizona. For more information, visit http://www.tataandhoward.com Established in 1881, the American Water Works Association is the largest nonprofit, scientific and educational association dedicated to managing and treating water, the worlds most important resource. With approximately 51,000 members, AWWA provides solutions to improve public health, protect the environment, strengthen the economy and enhance our quality of life. Brands need to keep up with evolving tech trends in order to compete in the market, says DesignRush Founder and CEO Gabriel Shaoolian. Augmented reality will have one billion users or more by the year 2020 and brands can use upcoming technological advances to attract new customers, build better user experiences, and ultimately increase revenue. DesignRush.com, a B2B marketplace connecting brands with agencies, uncovered the top three emerging digital trends that can help brands grow efficiently. The top three digital trends of 2019 are: 1. Artificial Intelligence Artificial intelligence can come in many forms, creating endless possibilities for brands. From robotic assembly lines to chatbots to machine learning for eCommerce platforms and everything in between, businesses can build customer-centric experiences that help them achieve long-term success. 2. Personalization Consumers that have personalized interactions with brands are more likely to engage with them and complete a purchase. The best digital agencies know that customizing everything from online ads to product suggestions to email marketing campaigns will make every touchpoint that users have with a brand more successful. 3. Augmented Reality Virtual reality is everywhere but dont underestimate the power of augmented reality. This tech trend is simpler and more realistic to integrate into customer centric platforms such as mobile apps. AR can improve also brand visibility, explain products, onboard employees and more. Brands need to keep up with evolving tech trends in order to compete in the market, says DesignRush Founder and CEO Gabriel Shaoolian. Luckily, enlisting the help of a top-rated digital agency enables businesses to learn the latest tactics and emerging strategies that can engage consumers on every platform and increase revenue. DesignRushs Agency Listing section features the best local and global digital agencies. Some of the best digital agencies from around the world include: 1. ALTA Digital ALTA is the digital one-stop shop, mastering every stage of the customer journey. We build robust products from scratch, provide end-to-end marketing solutions, and excite customer desire with creative brand design. Among other success stories, our key clients include BMW, Altice, Pfizer, Renault, Virgin, Mini, Glintt, Galp, CTT, and many other global brands. A team that has more than 15 years of experience in the digital universe, ALTA Digital values streamlined efficiency, top-notch delivery, and a customer-centered approach. Visit ALTA Digital at: https://www.altadigital.com/ 2. ATKASA As a full-service Digital Marketing hub, we boast an extensive list of clients from all sectors both locally and Internationally. In this fast-paced, ever-changing environment, we pride ourselves on being unapologetically client-centric to ensure we consistently deliver unmatched service, design, and best-practice innovations that place you at the forefront of your industry. Visit ATKASA at: https://www.atkasa.com/ 3. Aztek Aztek is a full-service digital agency located in Cleveland, Ohio. We offer website design, development, and digital marketing services. We are a certified Umbraco, Shopify, Google, Act-On, and SharpSpring partner. Visit Aztek at: https://www.aztekweb.com/ 4. Bowen Bowen is an award-winning, New York-based creative agency and digital consultancy that partners with businesses to create powerful, enduring results. We combine exceptional artistry and sharpened strategy to provide our clients with unparalleled value. We offer a wide variety of specialized services to meet your business needs, including brand development, custom web design, digital marketing, and business consulting. Visit Bowen at: https://www.bowenmedia.com/ 5. Brand Kitchen Brand Kitchen is a full-service creative marketing firm specializing in emerging and challenger food and beverage brands. Our deep industry knowledge aids brands in increasing sales and market share by gaining additional distribution and driving consumer awareness and trial. Visit Brand Kitchen at: https://www.brand-kitchen.com/ 6. BRASS Advertising Brass Advertising is a Nashville-based advertising agency focusing on video content creation, media buying, marketing strategy, creative, traditional media, digital media, social media management and advertising, website management, and public relations. Visit BRASS Advertising at: https://www.brassadvertising.com/ 7. Custom Media K.K. Custom Media is an award-winning bilingual, digital integrated marketing, content-creation and strategic communications agency in Tokyo. We provide data-driven, targeted marketing solutions with a solid return-on-investment approach focusing on customer engagement. Our services comprise strategy, creation and technology. Visit Custom Media K.K. at: https://custom-media.com/ 8. DeVito/Verdi DeVito/Verdi, a privately held company, has been recognized as one of the most exceptional creative agencies in the industry. DeVito/Verdi is a medium-sized, full-service advertising agency that continues to win accolades for its work in all departments, including creative, strategic planning, media buying and planning, public relations, promotions, guerilla tactics and digital solutions, the fastest-growing department within the agency. DeVito/Verdi, which has been voted "Best Agency" six times by the AAAA, has created some of the most memorable ad campaigns of the past 26 years. Visit DeVito/Verdi at: https://www.devitoverdi.com/ 9. ENCE Marketing Group We craft experiences. We help brands speak. We connect the dots for you so you don't have to. At ENCE, we understand that every industry, every discipline, and every customer is different. That's why we focus a lot on customizing solutions for you so that you can enjoy a new way of engaging your customers for optimal effectiveness. Visit ENCE Marketing Group at: https://encemarketing.com/ 10. Glue Advertising Our founders come from leadership positions at Havas, Interpublic, Omnicom, and WPP. Partnering with Glue gives clients access to this wealth of experience and insight, delivered through a refreshingly hands-on, streamlined business model. That's just one of the ways Glue offers you big-agency thinking, without the big agency. Glue is a full-service advertising agency located in Chelsea, New York City. We are a certified diverse supplier. Visit Glue Advertising at: https://glueadvertising.com/ 11. Growth Hackers Growth Hackers is a digital marketing and growth hacking agency. We help businesses from all around the world grow by building their online brands, helping them drive qualified traffic to their site, generating leads, improving their conversions and increasing their sales. We offer services like web design, content marketing, SEO, social media marketing, paid advertising and email marketing. We evaluate the success of our agency through the success of our clients. In other words, we succeed because our clients succeed. Visit Growth Hackers at: https://www.growth-hackers.net/ 12. Hillclimb Design LLC Hillclimb Design is a full-service professional web design and digital marketing agency for all your business needs. From user-centered and intuitive web design to cutting-edge digital marketing techniques that are data-driven, we are your partner for success in todays ever-changing digital world. Our comprehensive services delivered by experienced professional web design and digital marketing experts will help your business receive the attention it deserves while driving your business goals. Visit Hillclimb Design LLC at: https://hillclimbdesign.com/ 13. Jump 450 Jump 450 is a new-age performance-driven digital marketing agency that melds the creativity of ad writing, design and development with the science of programmatic display, native and social media buying. Using a highly evolved, quantitative-focused approach, Jump 450 has the unique ability to reach millions of consumers, globally and deliver sales volume at unprecedented levels, profitably. Visit Jump 450 at: https://jump450.com/ 14. Metajive Metajive creates growth-focused experiences through design, technology & modern marketing channels. We specialize in Websites, digital products & marketing automation. We partner with Business to Business & Direct to Consumer brands with a holistic strategy that surpasses business goals and increases brand affinity. Metajive defines modern marketing like SEO, retargeting, custom email flows & serving custom content for users. Visit Metajive at: http://metajive.com/ 15. Mobiiworld D LLC Were an award-winning, Dubai-based, full-service design and development mobile apps agency. We develop awesome mobile apps and games. We inspire emotion, achieve the impossible, keep people thrilled, and make dreams reality. This is our life's work, our legacy, and our passion. We are the only mobile apps agency in the region to have won at the Cannes Lions award festival 2016. We also have numerous Dubai Lynx mobile apps awards and have also won the SL Magazine mobile apps award for developing the best shopping mobile app of the Year for Geant Hypermarkets. Visit Mobiiworld D LLC at: https://www.mobiiworld.com/ 16. Rebrand Advertising + Design Rebrand was founded in 2003 and comprised of a team of highly skilled creative professionals that come from a diverse background. Sound strategic solutions and the most current and effective solutions are at the heart of what we do. Additionally, we create integrated advertising campaigns built on robust, scalable and accountable marketing platforms that utilize the latest techniques in the digital age and traditional advertising. All this is aimed at getting clients tangible business results. Visit Rebrand Advertising + Design at: https://rebrand.ca/ 17. SAP We feel like sharing with you information such as SAP is a full service digital agency based in Prishtina and was established in 2013. However, because we are more creative than that, we will just ask of you to imagine how awesome and cool our agency of a small but complex team of designers, developers, marketers and analysts who share a big vision, but dwell on bigger ideas, is. Wed also like you to know that the strength and diversity of our portfolio is a testament to the quality of our work we've produced over the years, but we rather have you take a look for yourself. Visit SAP at: https://www.sindikata.org/ 18. Solve Solve is an independent, Minneapolis-based branding agency heralded for its creativity and business results. Founded in 2011, Solve has been named one of the top small agencies in America. Twice. Solve is the youngest agency to ever win the Ad Age Small Agency of the Year award which is based on creative work, client results and business growth among independent agencies with fewer than 150 people. Solve was also named one of North Americas Top 15 most effective independent agencies by PSFK. And, iMedia has named Solve a Digital Small Agency of the Year. The companys silo-less, client-first model gives marketers a refreshing alternative to traditional agency structures and priorities. Visit Solve at: https://www.solve-ideas.com/ 19. Tripika The marketing world has changed! What used to be a straightforward field, is now turning into a beautiful turf full of surprises. We at TRIPIKA can offer your organization a peek at this turf for a fraction of the price. Visit Tripika at: http://www.tripika.com/ 20. Twist We do it with a Twist! With Digital Marketing DNA, Twist is a full-service Advertising Agency focused on creative solutions "with a plus". We've already made more than 500 projects and campaigns for different kinds of clients: from startups to traditional brands. Fans of the small details, we aim for top quality in all our projects, because we believe that a great execution can lead to a better brand experience, generating bolder results. Ask our clients! Visit Twist at: https://twist.com.br/agencia-digital/ 21. Veepal IT Services Veepal is one of the fastest growing IT consultancy and service organizations providing dedicated offshore development resources and complete IT solutions to its clients. Our focus is on developing Custom Software Development, Web Application Development, Web Site Design and Development, IT Staff Augmentation, Business Process Outsourcing, Search Engine Optimization and Marketing, E-commerce Development, Remote Infrastructure Management, Content Management System, Application Maintenance, Quality Assurance & Testing, Database Administration and Mobile Application Development including iPhone App Development, iPad Application Development, Android App Development, BlackBerry Application Development, Windows Mobile Application Development and Symbian Application Development. Visit Veepal IT Services at: http://www.veepal.com/ Brands can view the best digital agencies by price, portfolios, reviews, leadership, expertise, rankings and more on DesignRush. About DesignRush: DesignRush.com is a B2B marketplace connecting brands with agencies. DesignRush features the top agencies around the world, including the best Digital Agencies, Logo Design, Branding, Digital Marketing, Website Design, eCommerce Web Design Companies, and more. The Tisch Cancer Institute and the Precision Immunology Institute at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai have launched the Center for Computational Immunology, a hub that will help researchers studying cancer, genomics, machine learning, and immunology collaborate to find better targeted immunotherapies for patients. Benjamin Greenbaum, PhD, Assistant Professor of Oncological Sciences, Pathology, and Medicine (Hematology and Medical Oncology), will serve as Director. Immunotherapy, which unleashes the bodys immune system to fight cancer, has had miraculous success in some patients, including former President Jimmy Carter, whose metastatic melanoma had threatened to take his life. But only 20 percent of patients have any response at all. The mission of this Center, the first of its kind, is to find ways to increase the number of patients who benefit from immunotherapy drugs that kill cancer. Our focus is on trying to utilize Mount Sinais already-established broad expertise in immunology, cancer, and computational sciences to move forward immunological studies in cancer, Dr. Greenbaum said. We want to understand how to model interactions between cancers and the immune system to help more people benefit from the life-saving potential of immunotherapy. The Tisch Cancer Institute recently recruited two top computational scientists: Marta Luksza, PhD, from the Simons Center for Systems Biology at the Institute for Advanced Study, as an Assistant Professor of Oncological Sciences, and Genetics and Genomic Sciences, and Paz P. Polak, PhD, from the Eli and Edythe L. Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, who is now Assistant Professor of Oncological Sciences, Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Pathology and Medicine (Hematology and Medical Oncology) at the Icahn School of Medicine. Both will play an integral role in the development of the center. The Center will fuel the bench-to-bedside culture already finding great new innovations at The Tisch Cancer Institute, said Ramon Parsons, MD, PhD, Director of The Tisch Cancer Institute, Ward-Coleman Chair in Cancer Research, and Chair of Oncological Sciences at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai. This cross-disciplinary team is working to find answers in some of the most promising therapies for cancer patients today. The Precision Immunology Institute at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai is excited about this new venture that allows us to look further into the tumor microenvironment for answers, said Miriam Merad, MD, PhD, Director of the Precision Immunology Institute, Director of the Mount Sinai Human Immune Monitoring Center (HIMC), and Mount Sinai Professor in Cancer Immunology. We are at a critical juncture of really understanding why patients respond or dont respond to immunotherapy. About the Mount Sinai Health System The Mount Sinai Health System is New York City's largest integrated delivery system, encompassing eight hospitals, a leading medical school, and a vast network of ambulatory practices throughout the greater New York region. Mount Sinai's vision is to produce the safest care, the highest quality, the highest satisfaction, the best access and the best value of any health system in the nation. The Health System includes approximately 7,480 primary and specialty care physicians; 11 joint-venture ambulatory surgery centers; more than 410 ambulatory practices throughout the five boroughs of New York City, Westchester, Long Island, and Florida; and 31 affiliated community health centers. The Icahn School of Medicine is one of three medical schools that have earned distinction by multiple indicators: ranked in the top 20 by U.S. News & World Report's "Best Medical Schools", aligned with a U.S. News & World Report's "Honor Roll" Hospital, No. 12 in the nation for National Institutes of Health funding, and among the top 10 most innovative research institutions as ranked by the journal Nature in its Nature Innovation Index. This reflects a special level of excellence in education, clinical practice, and research. The Mount Sinai Hospital is ranked No. 18 on U.S. News & World Report's "Honor Roll" of top U.S. hospitals; it is one of the nation's top 20 hospitals in Cardiology/Heart Surgery, Gastroenterology/GI Surgery, Geriatrics, Nephrology, and Neurology/Neurosurgery, and in the top 50 in six other specialties in the 2018-2019 "Best Hospitals" issue. Mount Sinai's Kravis Children's Hospital also is ranked nationally in five out of ten pediatric specialties by U.S. News & World Report. The New York Eye and Ear Infirmary of Mount Sinai is ranked 11th nationally for Ophthalmology and 44th for Ear, Nose, and Throat. Mount Sinai Beth Israel, Mount Sinai St. Luke's, Mount Sinai West, and South Nassau Communities Hospital are ranked regionally. For more information, visit http://www.mountsinai.org/, or find Mount Sinai on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube. Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. is pleased to announce that Thomas Crumplar and Raeann Warner have been honored by Super Lawyers for 2019. Both seasoned attorneys have dedicated years of service with outstanding results. Super Lawyers chooses exemplary lawyers using a multiphase process that evaluates performance through independent research and peer review. Honors are bestowed once a year, on a state-by-state basis, and are separated by specific categories of practice. Lawyers who are selected have undergone a rigorous screening process to provide the public with high-caliber recommendations amongst experts across all areas of law. Thomas Crumplar is a founding partner of Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. He began practicing law in 1975 after he earned his law degree from the University of Virginia. While at school, he created the University of Virginias patent policy, which pertained to scientific research completed at the university. After graduation, Mr. Crumplar started his career as a law clerk for Federal Judge John T. Copenhaver in Charleston, West Virginia. In 1981, he and Robert Jacobs founded Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A., where he is currently Managing Director. Mr. Crumplar is a member of the bar in both Delaware and New Jersey. He is also an active member of the American Association for Justice and the National Crime Victims Bar Association. Attorney Raeann Warner is dedicated to the service of her clients and has fought on behalf of victims in very sensitive cases, including those involving child sexual abuse, sexual assault, personal injury, and discrimination. Her compassion and fierce representation are laudable. She graduated from Florida State University, magna cum laude, in 2002. Afterward, she continued her education at Widener Law School, where she graduated, cum laude, in 2006. She is licensed to practice in Delaware and New Jersey, and is currently a Director at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. is proud to have such extraordinary lawyers on their team and offer their sincerest, heartfelt congratulations. For assistance on a legal matter, call 302-656-5445 or visit the firm online at https://www.jcdelaw.com/. Attorneys at the firm assist clients throughout Delaware from their offices in Wilmington and Georgetown. They also serve as local counsel for clients nationwide. Visit us on Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter. Ricardo, Madison and Anthony of Morning Star School Thanks to generous donations from the community, weve raised almost $1.3 million dollars just enough to build and open our high school in 2017. Just two years later, we have our first graduating class. said Jean Barnes, principal of Morning Star School. Click here for photos/videos On Thurs., May 23, 2019, Morning Star School in Jacksonville, Florida, the entire community of parents, staff and students will be cheering for the schools first-ever high school graduating class. Weve been serving students in kindergarten through eighth grade for over 60 years, said Jean Barnes, principal of Morning Star School, which serves children with a wide range of learning differences. Thanks to generous donations from the community, weve raised almost $1.3 million dollars just enough to build and open our high school in 2017. Just two years later, we have our first graduating class. Morning Star Schools high school for children with learning challenges is an important resource for the northeast Florida community. More than 150 students with diverse backgrounds from Duval, Clay, St. Johns, Nassau, and Flagler counties attend the school every year, but completing eighth grade was often a stressful time for parents and students because of the few high school special education programs available in Jacksonville, and none with the capability to match students emotional and social needs like Morning Star School. To fill this void, Morning Star School launched its first capital campaign in 2016. The $1.6 million Building A Brighter Future campaign had a goal - to begin construction on a new building to accommodate students in grades nine through 12. Meet Morning Star Schools First Ever High School Graduates Morning Star School could not be more proud of its inaugural class of graduates and their families. Ricardo is on the Autism Spectrum (ASD). When he arrived at Morning Star School he lacked expressive language skills. Through classroom help and speech and language therapy, Ricardo has acquired expressive communication skills and recently entered the local Florida High School High Tech Jeannie Amendola Speech & Research Competition. He began attending Morning Star School in the fourth grade, and left to attend a private high school after eight grade. As soon as the high school was completed, Ricardo returned. His favorite memory is a trip to Washington, D.C., and he has big plans after graduation. I want to attend the University of North Florida, he said. I am going to be a teacher. Madison came to Morning Star School with Specific Learning Disability (ALD). This made it difficult for Madison to keep up in a larger class setting. The teachers at Morning Star School were able to provide her with more individualized attention. This small change made a huge difference for Madison. She is now a happy, thriving and successful student. I am so thankful to have the opportunity that so many kids didnt get, she said. The teachers have made this school great and are welcoming to everyone, and treat you like this is your home. Anthony came to Morning Star School with significant processing differences particularly in processing speed and cognitive efficiency. He is a gifted artist, a competitive runner, and enjoys fossil hunting. Anthony said that he felt overwhelmed at other schools, but not at Morning Star School. He is gratified to have made the honor roll for the first time, and admires his fellow graduates. I am proud to join Madison and Ricardo as the class of 2019, the first high school graduates of Morning Star School! he said. By placing Anthony in a more appropriately paced educational environment he has succeeded in school. The small classes that are available to learn at his pace gave Anthony the chance to achieve and feel good about himself. Partnership, Mentoring & Graduation with Bishop Snyder High School Morning Star Schools high school partners with Bishop Snyder High School (BSHS) so all students have a true high school experience. Bishop Snyder High School hosts the Morning Star high school students at their school masses and retreats, as well as sporting events, dances and fine arts showcases. Many BSHS students serve as mentors to the Morning Star School students and help them feel welcome and accepted as part of a larger high school community. The Morning Star Schools high school students will graduate along side their mentors on Thurs., May 23 at 7p.m. at Thrasher-Horne Center, St. Johns River Community College, 283 College Drive, Orange Park, FL. More information on Morning Star School can be found at http://www.morningstar-jax.org. # # # About Morning Star School, Jacksonville Morning Star School in Jacksonville, Florida (http://www.morningstar-jax.org) is a K-12 school serving children with learning differences, attention deficit disorders, autism spectrum disorders, and mild intellectual disabilities. Fully accredited by the Florida Catholic Conference, Morning Star School is the only special education school in the Diocese of St. Augustine and takes pride in its diverse students who are welcomed regardless of background or religious affiliation. Teachers and staff work with each individual student and partner with parents, therapists and medical providers to provide each child the opportunity to reach their highest potential. Morning Star School is perpetually at capacity and is raising funds to expand the school and its services. More about the donors of Morning Star Schools high school Thanks to the generosity of donors, the new high school building was completed in just a year. A Circle of Friends initiative chaired by well-known local philanthropists Robert (Bob) Shircliff, Jay Demetree and Lou Walsh helped secure the initial major donors for the project. It includes four middle-school classrooms, four high-school classrooms, a state-of-the-art media and learning center, and a beautiful outdoor classroom. The total high school project cost is $1.6 million. Currently at $1.3 million, Morning Star School continues campaign efforts to raise the additional $300,000 needed to pay off the new high school. Morning Star School 725 Mickler Road Jacksonville, FL 32211 904-721-2144 https://morningstar-jax.org Media Contact: Beth Strautz (773) 895-5387 beth@vaguspr.com Click here for photos/videos Uplive, the leading live broadcasting platform, will be sponsoring 50+ top hosts to attend China Australia International Film & Television Festival which will be held in Brisbane, Australia. China-Australia International Film Festival was founded in 2014 and was approved by China's State Administration of Press, Publication, Radio, Film and Television. It was hosted by the National Press and Publication Administration of the State Administration of Radio, Film and Television and Australia International Group. Since 2014, 4 festivals have taken place, giving awards to more than 20 films and TV series each year. Many celebrities from China and Australia have attended the festival. Liu Xiuhua, executive chairman of the festival and chairman of Australia Australia International Group, said in her speech that film is one of the most influential forms of communication in contemporary society. Australia and China have a unique position in the world of film industry. Australia is home to many world-class blockbusters and post-production bases, and has also nurtured many world-class movie stars. China has become the world's third largest producer of film and the second largest film market. The China-Australia International Film Festival coincides with an era of hope and opportunity. Uplive, the leading live streaming platform, will select 50+ Top hosts from around 54 countries to attend this distinguished festival and will sponsor airfare and hotel accommodations. About Uplive (Uplive) Uplive was founded in May 2016, As part of Asia Innovations Group (AIG), Uplive is a live-streaming platform that allows users to broadcast and view real-time videos via their smartphones. Currently Uplive has over 1000,000 broadcasters and 65 million registered users worldwide and is available in over 100 countries, the app currently supports sixteen languages including Arabic, Chinese, French, Portuguese, Spanish and Thai. with over 500,000 live anchors airing content in all languages and tastes, Uplive is becoming one the of the most successful Chinese applications growing worldwide. On average broadcasters in Uplive earned $2000 dollars a month in 2018 just by streaming an hour a day from their phones. Uplive Website: http://www.asiainnovations.com UpliveUSA: http://www.upliveusa.com Instagram: @Uplive.usa Event Page:http://upliveusa.com/caiff/ Gov. Ralph Northam appointed Loudoun County entrepreneur and lifelong Virginia resident J. Shawn Mitchell to the Virginia Board for Contractors, a license-issuing body under the Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation. The Board of Contractors is charged with overseeing construction, HVAC and other facility-improvement businesses, granting Class A, B and C contractor licenses in a variety of specialties. Mitchell is the founder of Modern Mechanical LLC now One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning, a Loudoun-based HVAC, Plumbing & Electrical repair contractor established in 2010. He is one of six members appointed to the Board, and the only member from Northern Virginia. The governor's announcement is posted at Gubernatorial Appointments. "It's nothing less than a tremendous honor to be appointed by Gov. Northam today and Gov. McAuliffe in 2014, to the Board of Contractors," Mitchell said. "It's a recognition, I believe, of the high standards we've set at Modern Mechanical for professionalism and craftsmanship in everything we do. I'm pleased to receive this appointment and look forward to establishing a high level of quality among contractors throughout the Commonwealth." The Board of Contractors meets regularly in Richmond for both Committee and Board sessions. The next scheduled meeting is June 17. About Modern Mechanical LLC: Founded in 2010 by Loudoun County native Shawn Mitchell, Modern Mechanical LLC now One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning, is a professional mechanical contracting firm providing expert advanced repair, regular maintenance, full-system installation, inspection and replacement services for heating, air conditioning, plumbing, electrical and solar energy. Modern Mechanical recently expanded its offerings by launching four subsidiary brands: One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning, Benjamin Franklin Plumbing, Mr. Sparky Electrical and MM Solar. Modern Mechanical LLC (now One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning) has won numerous service awards and professional recognitions including Angie's List Super Service, Lennox International Premier Dealer, the Loudoun Times-Mirror's Best Of Loudoun, the Loudoun County Chamber of Commerce's Business of the Year, and a 2016 finalist for the U.S. Chamber of Commerce's Dream Big Award. The company's dual mission is to help homeowners lower their utility expenses and improve their comfort, while serving the community as a socially conscious corporate citizen. Learn more at http://www.ModernMec.com. Voyager HQ is partnering with leading companies in the travel industry, including Fareportal and Amadeus, to host the second annual Travel Disruption Summit in New York City on May 22, 2019. The Travel Disruption Summit is a full-day symposium gathering the chief luminaries and change makers in travel, tourism, and hospitality innovation. This event is highly curated, with all 300+ attendees vetted to ensure focused discussions and actionable outcomes towards the advancement of the industry. Attendees represent the leading voices and minds in the travel and technology industries, taking part in content sessions with high-growth startup founders, technologists and industry champions. Content at the Summit will be sorted into three tracks: Aviation, Hospitality, and Tourism. As a key part of the programming, attendees will participate in focused roundtable sessions exploring subtopics within each track: Discovery/Inspiration, Search/Aggregation, Inventory/Distribution, Payments, Mobility, Experiences, Corporate Travel, Sustainability & Conservation, Loyalty, Luxury Travel, and Operations. These intimate conversations are moderated by startup founders and enterprise leaders from Voyager HQs network who are developing solutions or making an impact in their own vertical. Each table includes industry leaders, venture capitalists, startups and media professionals to contribute diverse inputs to the discussion. The days program culminates with a selection of early-stage, visionary startup founders pitching their innovations for the near future of travel, with all attendees casting a vote for the winner. The day concludes with an afterparty in New York City to continue the conversations and formalize the partnerships initiated during the Summit. For more information and to apply to attend, visit https://www.traveldisruptionsummit.com. Speakers include: Sam Jain, CEO and Founder at Fareportal Anthony Toth, Managing Director -Digital Sales at United Airlines Jeff Glueck, CEO at Foursquare Amy Burr Managing Director, Operations and Partnerships at JetBlue Technology Ventures Marina Suberlyak, Head of Marketing, North America at Norwegian Air Kerri Zeil, Head of Amadeus for Startups Nicole Brown, Senior Director, Partnerships at TripAdvisor Barbara Joseph, Senior Manager, Business Development at Virtuoso Javier Egipciaco, SVP & Managing Director at Arlo Hotels About Voyager HQ Voyager HQ is the startup club for the global travel, tourism, and hospitality industry. Their community brings together entrepreneurs, corporate partners, and investors from around the world to create the future of travel experiences through curated events, workspace, and actionable introductions. The Voyager Clubhouse NYC is their signature coworking and event space in Flatiron, as well as the global headquarters for a digital community of 1,500+ entrepreneurs in more than 200 cities around the world. Join the Voyager HQ club by visiting https://www.voyagerhq.com/join-voyager/. About Fareportal Fareportal is a travel technology company powering a next-generation travel concierge service. Utilizing its innovative technology and company owned and operated global contact centers, Fareportal has built strong industry partnerships providing customers access to over 450 airlines, 1 million hotels, and hundreds of car rental companies around the globe. With a portfolio of consumer travel brands including CheapOair and OneTravel, Fareportal enables consumers to book online, on mobile apps for iOS and Android, by phone, or live chat. Fareportal provides its airline partners with access to a broad customer base that books high-yielding international travel and add-on ancillaries. Contact: John Matson john(at)voyagerhq(dot)com 137 W 25th Street New York, NY 10001 United States Ph: +1 347 440 1627 The team at Williams Cedar is pleased to announce that two of their partners have been honored by Super Lawyers for 2019. This designation is just one example of the many notable recognitions for the firm. For over 25 years, attorneys at Williams Cedar have been fighting for those harmed by negligence, discrimination, and corporate bullying. Super Lawyers selects attorneys through a combination of peer nomination, peer review and independent research. The honors are bestowed on a state-by-state basis and are divided by area of law practiced. Attorneys are chosen for the annual list using Super Lawyers patented selection process. The goal is to provide the public with a comprehensive list of exemplary attorneys who practice in all areas of law. Gerald J. Williams has been recognized by Super Lawyers each consecutive year since 2006. His prestigious career has spanned more than three decades. Mr. Williams focuses his practice on toxic tort and environmental litigation, civil rights and discrimination, sexual abuse by clergy claims, and whistleblower actions. In addition to his recognition by Super Lawyers, he received the AV Preeminent rating by legal publisher Martindale-Hubbell, the highest rating possible. David Cedar has been honored by Super Lawyers several times in both New Jersey and Pennsylvania since 2005. In 2005, he was named a Rising Star and then subsequently a Super Lawyer in 2009, 2012 - 2015, and from 2017 2019. He concentrates his practice on catastrophic personal injury, environmental toxic torts, and professional liability. Mr. Cedar practices law in both Pennsylvania and New Jersey. In 2001, he was appointed as a Certified Civil Trial Attorney by the Supreme Court of New Jersey, an honor held by less than one percent of lawyers in the state. He has successfully prosecuted cases against fortune 500 companies, insurance companies, and bankers. Gerald J. Williams, David Cedar and the entire legal team at Williams Cedar LLC are dedicated to fighting for the rights of consumers and citizens who have been victims of corporate action. They have secured nearly half a billion dollars for their clients in settlements and awards. For more information on legal matters, visit https://www.williamscedar.com/ or call their Philadelphia office at 215-557-0099 or their office in Haddonfield, New Jersey at 856-470-9777 for a free consultation. Visit us on Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter. Peter Marino Marinos devotion to music is fervent and we are proud and honored to have his support of the Young Concert Artists mission, to discover and bring to public attention extraordinary musicians from all over the world The Young Concert Artists 58th Anniversary Gala will take place at Alice Tully Hall in Lincoln Center and Guest of Honor Peter Marino will receive a tribute to his profound devotion to music and support of the Young Concert Artists mission for over 25 years. Marino joined the Young Concert Artists Board of Directors in 1993 and served as Chairman of the Board from 2003-2012. During that time, he endowed the Peter Marino Concert, making possible a Zankel Hall debut for a new YCA Winner each year. Marino also established a prestigious Young Concert Artists Festival in Tokyo, Japan, which for almost a decade was held each spring at Nexus Hall in the Chanel Ginza flagship he designed. Guests will receive performances from Anthony Trionfo, flute; SooBeen Lee, violin; Nathan Lee, piano in an evening celebrating and raising funding for the organization. Susan Wordsworth who founded the organization in 1961, commented: Marinos devotion to music is fervent and we are proud and honored to have his support of the Young Concert Artists mission, to discover and bring to public attention extraordinary musicians from all over the world. Beyond music, Marino is also recognized for his support of the visual arts and cultural design projects. Marino is Chairman of the Venetian Heritage Foundation and is currently supporting the restoration of three life-size Antonio Rizzo statues for the Ducal Palace. He has supported the restoration of Pierre Chareaus 1925 Bureau de lAmbassade Francaise, one of the museums famed period rooms. He designed the exhibition space for Art and Industry: Contemporary Porcelain from Sevres at the American Craft Museum in New York. Further cultural projects include Fire and Water an exhibition of his sculptural bronze boxes at Gagosian Gallery in London, Memento Mori: Robert Mapplethorpe Photographs from the Peter Marino Collection in Tokyo and Kyoto (2017), One Way: Peter Marino at the Bass Museum of Art in Miami (2015) and Beauty & Power an exhibition of his Renaissance and Baroque bronze collection at the Wallace Collection in London (2010). Marino, who has amassed the largest private collection of sculpture by Claude and Francois-Xavier Lalanne, designed the retrospective of their work entitled Les Lalanne, at the Musee des Arts Decoratifs, Paris, and sits on the board for the Committee of LUnion Centrale des Arts Decoratifs. In July of 2018 Marino announced his plans to open Peter Marino Arts Foundation in Southampton. Marino purchased and intends to restore the former Rogers Memorial Library at 11 Jobs Lane. Just ahead of its 50th anniversary in 2020, Boston-based publisher David R. Godine announced that the companys eponymous founder and owner will step down as publisher at the end of the year. Godines new owner, William N. Thorndike Jr., is already starting to shape the press. A new management team will come on board in July. As the new owner of Godine, Im delighted to continue and hopefully extend the companys tradition of publishing excellence and believe we have made significant strides in that direction with the addition of two new hires to our team: David Allender, a very talented Godine alum, and Josh Bodwell, a passionate and gifted bookman, Thorndike told PW. The transfer in ownership began several years ago and Thorndike, who is a member of the Godine board of directors, will be fully vested in the company later this year. He founded Housatonic Partners in Boston in 1994 and is also the author of a book about CEOs, The Outsiders (Harvard Business Review Press). Former Godine staffer Allender will return as managing director. He held the position of senior v-p, editorial director at Scholastic Book Clubs for more than a decade, and has held editorial positions at Workman, Book-of-the-Month Club, and Crown. Im overjoyed to go back where I first fell in love with publishing, to build on Davids decades of distinguished achievement and be part of many great things to come, he said. Bodwell, who was executive director of the Maine Writers & Publishers Alliance and recently oversaw the publication of the three-volume collected short stories and novellas of Andre Dubus for Godine, will serve as editorial director. Both Bodwell and Allender will report to Thorndike and Godine. Welcome to Railway Gazette. This website uses cookies to improve your experience. By continuing to browse this site you are agreeing to our use of these cookies. You can learn more about the cookies we use here. OK At the vanguard of the slate is Years and Years (6 x 60) a RED production for BBC One, HBO and Canal+ and is described as a landmark drama and led by what it calls unprecedented interest.In Europe, StudioCanal has also sold Trust Me (series 1 and 2), as well as the Iberian rights to thriller Sanctuary (8 x 60) to HBO Europe. BBC Benelux has snapped up Years and Years, Come Home and The Five, in what is StudioCanal first deal with the broadcaster in the region.StudioCanal has also struck an agreement with HBO Latin America for Years and Years and thriller, Moscow Noir (8 x 60). In Russia, StudioCanal has brokered a further inaugural deal with Amedia TVs streaming service Amediateka, and also for Years and Years, Sanctuary and 90 drama feature, The Child in Time.Finally, Years and Years, Pros and Cons and The Lawyer will receive an Israeli audience through sales to yes, DBS Israel.We had an amazing response to Years and Years at MIPTV, which demonstrates the positive impact of having high-profile co-production partners, such as HBO , BBC and Canal + on board, said Beatriz Campos, head of international sales, StudioCanal . We were blown away by the excitement generated by our latest shows in Cannes with our biggest line-up to date with 12 new series presented at the market. Lockheed Martin has revealed a concept for a variant of its air-launched Hypersonic Air-breathing Weapon Concept hypersonic missile, or HAWC, as an armament option for U.S. Navy's F-35C Joint Strike Fighter, and potentially other aircraft, possibly in a maritime strike role. HAWC, which has so far been under development as a land attack weapon, is set to fly for the first time before the end of the year. The artist's conception of an F-35C firing a HAWC derivative first appeared at the Navy League's annual Sea, Air, Space convention just outside of Washington, D.C., on May 6, 2019. The rendering shows the stealth aircraft configured to carry two of these weapons externally, one under each wing. In April 2018, the U.S. Air Force, working together with the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), awarded Lockheed Martin a contract worth approximately $928 million for the development of HAWC. Above, redactions from Special Counsel Robert Mueller's report. By Paul Sperry, RealClearInvestigations May 9, 2019 Special Counsel Robert Mueller spent more than $732,000 on outside contractors, including private investigators and researchers, records show, but his office refuses to say who they were. While its not unusual for special government offices to outsource for services such as computer support, Mueller also hired contractors to compile investigative reports and other information." The arrangement has led congressional investigators, government watchdog groups and others to speculate that the private investigators and researchers who worked for the special counsels office might have included Christopher Steele and Fusion GPS, the private research firm that hired Steele to produce the Russia collusion dossier for the Clinton campaign. Robert Mueller arriving at the office: His report recycles dossier dirt. They suspect the dossier creators may have been involved in Muellers operation and even had a hand in his final report because the special counsel sent his team to London to meet with Steele within a few months of taking over the Russia collusion investigation in 2017. Also, Muellers lead prosecutor, Andrew Weissmann, had shared information he received from Fusion with the media. Raising additional suspicions, Muellers report recycles the general allegations leveled in the dossier. And taking a page from earlier surveillance-warrant applications in the Russia investigation, it cites as supporting evidence several articles including one by Yahoo! News that used Steele and Fusion as sources. Mueller even kept alive one of the dossiers most obscene accusations that Moscow had "compromising tapes" of Trump with Russian hookers by slipping into a footnote an October 2016 text Trump lawyer Michael Cohen received from a "Russian businessman," who cryptically intimated, Stopped flow of tapes from Russia. Lawyers for the businessman, Giorgi Rtskhiladze (who is actually a Georgian-American), are demanding a retraction of the footnote, arguing Mueller omitted the part of his text where he said he did not believe the rumor about the tapes, for which no evidence has ever surfaced. Muellers reliance on the Steele dossier is raising questions because it occurred long after FBI Director James B. Comey described the dossier as salacious and unverified. U.S. Rep. Devin Nunes, the top Republican on the House Intelligence Committee, said the report should be renamed The Mueller Dossier, because he says it contains a lot of similar innuendo. Even though Mueller failed to corroborate key allegations leveled in the dossier, Nunes said his report twists key facts to put a collusion gloss on events. He also asserted that it selectively quotes from Trump campaign emails and omits exculpatory information in ways that cast the campaigns activities in the most sinister light. A detail from the website of Steele's private London firm Steeles 17-memo dossier alleged that the Trump campaign was involved in a well-developed conspiracy of cooperation with the Russian government to rig the 2016 presidential election in Trumps favor. It claimed this conspiracy was managed on the Trump side by Campaign Chairman Paul Manafort, who was using foreign policy adviser Carter Page and others as intermediaries. Specifically, the dossier accused Page of secretly meeting with Kremlin officials in July 2016 to hatch a plot to release dirt on Hillary Clinton. And it accused Manafort of being corrupted by Russian President Vladimir Putin through his puppets in the Ukraine. Likewise, Muellers report focuses on Manafort and Page and whether they committed crimes by colluding with Russian government officials with respect to the Russian governments efforts to interfere with the 2016 presidential election. Though the investigation did not establish that Page coordinated with the Russian government, the Mueller report implies there may be a kernel of truth to the dossiers charges. "In July 2016, Campaign foreign policy advisor Carter Page traveled in his personal capacity to Moscow and gave the keynote address at the New Economic School, according to the section on him. "Page had lived and worked in Russia between 2003 and 2007. After returning to the United States, Page became acquainted with at least two Russian intelligence officers, one of whom was later charged in 2015 with conspiracy to act as an unregistered agent of Russia. Carter Page at a news conference in Moscow in 2016. "Page's July 2016 trip to Moscow and his advocacy for pro-Russian foreign policy drew media attention, Mueller's narrative continued. "July 2016 was also the month WikiLeaks first released emails stolen by the GRU [Russian intelligence] from the DNC." Page acknowledged that he understood that the individuals he has associated with were members of the Russian intelligence services, the report added, implying that Page in the 2015 case (referenced above) knowingly cavorted with Russian spies, which echoes charges Steele made in his dossier. But federal court records make it clear that Page did not know that those men were Russian agents. Mueller also left out of his report a detail RealClearInvestigations has previously reported: that Page was a cooperating witness in the case in question, helping the FBI eventually put a Russian agent behind bars in 2016. Nor did Mueller see fit to include in his report another exculpatory detail revealed in agent Gregory Mohaghans complaint and reported earlier by RCI -- namely, that the Russians privately referred to Page as "an idiot who was unworthy of recruitment. Excluding such details is curious, given that the Mueller report quotes from the same FBI complaint and cites it in its footnotes. Similarly, in its section dealing with Manafort, the Mueller report echoes the dossiers claims that the Trump campaign chairman was in cahoots with the Kremlin, even though Mueller never charged him with conspiring to collude with Russia. A 2006 photo of Konstantin Kilimnik, a longtime employee of Paul Manafort who ran the Ukraine office of his lobbying firm. The Mueller report suggests he was one of Manafort's Kremlin handlers. The special prosecutors report indicated that one of Manaforts Kremlin handlers was Konstantin Kilimnik. Manafort briefed Kilimnik on the state of the Trump Campaign and Manaforts plan to win the election, it said. That briefing encompassed the Campaigns messaging and its internal polling data. It also included discussion of battleground states, which Manafort identified as Michigan, Wisconsin, Pennsylvania and Minnesota." Except that this wouldnt have been an unusual conversation: Kilimnik was a longtime Manafort employee who ran the Ukraine office of his lobbying firm. Footnotes in Muellers report show that Manafort shared campaign information to impress a former business partner, Russian oligarch Oleg Deripaska, who was suing him over financial losses. Mueller failed to tie the information exchange to Russian espionage. He also failed to mention that Deripaska is an FBI informant. Muellers team worked closely with dossier author Steele, a long-retired British intelligence officer who worked for the Clinton campaign. Muellers investigators went to London to consult with Steele for at least two days in September 2017 while apparently using his dossier as an investigative road map and central theory to his collusion case. Steele now runs a private research and consulting firm in London, Orbis Business Intelligence. Its not clear if Muellers office paid Steele, but recently released FBI records show the bureau previously made a number of payments to him, and at one point during the 2016 campaign offered him $50,000 to continue his dossier research. Steele was also paid through the Clinton campaign, earning $168,000 for his work on the dossier. Paul Manafort at court last year with wife Kathleen. Expenditure statements show that the Special Counsels Office outsourced investigative reports and information to third-party contractors during Mueller's investigation into alleged Russian collusion during the 2016 presidential election. Over the past few months, Muellers office has rejected several formal requests from RealClearInvestigations for contract details, including who was hired and how much they were paid. Washington-based Judicial Watch suspects Muellers office may have farmed out work to the private Washington research firm Fusion GPS or its subcontractor Steele, both of whom were paid by the Clinton camp during the 2016 presidential election. Several law enforcement and Hill sources who spoke with RCI also believe Steele and Fusion GPS were deputized in the investigation. The government watchdog group has requested that the Justice Department turn over the contracting records, along with all budget requests Mueller submitted to the attorney general during his nearly two-year investigation. It's also requested all communications between the Special Counsels Office and the private contractors it used. A Judicial Watch spokesman said its Freedom of Information Act request is pending. Glenn Simpson: Some suspect he did work for Mueller. Special counsel spokesman Peter Carr declined comment when asked specifically if Muellers team hired or collaborated with Fusion GPS or any of its subcontractors. Mueller took over the FBIs Russia probe in May 2017, whereupon he hired many of the agents who handled Steele and pored over his dossier. For the first reporting period ending Sept. 30, 2017, and covering just four months, the Special Counsels Office reported paying $867 to unnamed contractors for investigative reports/information, along with $3,554 in miscellaneous payments to contractors. In the next reporting period ending March 31, 2018, the office stopped breaking out investigative reports and information as a separate line item, lumping such contractual services under the category Other, which accounted for a total of $10,812, or more than 4% of the total spending on outside contracts. For the six months ending Sept. 30, 2018 the latest reporting period for which there is data Muellers office showed a total of $310,732 in payments to outside contractors. For the first time, it did not break out such expenses into subcategories, though it noted that the lions share of the $310,000 was spent on IT services. Mueller concluded his investigation and delivered his final report in March. The next expenditure report, for the period October 2018-March 2019, will cover contract work directly tied to compiling the report. Asked if the contracting details were classified, Carr demurred. If the information is not deemed classified, it must be made public, Judicial Watch maintains. Republican critics on the Hill say Muellers written narrative was slanted to give the impression there still might be something to the dossier's most salacious allegations, even though Mueller found no evidence corroborating them or establishing that Trump or his campaign coordinated or cooperated with Russian meddling in the election. Whoever wrote the report leaves you with the idea theres still something to all the allegations of collusion that were first promoted by the dossier, said a witness who was interviewed by Muellers investigators late in the probe and is referenced in the report. Donald Trump Jr., right, with his father: The Mueller report gives the misimpression that the president's oldest son was collaborating with WikiLeaks. In a section on Donald Trump Jr., moreover, the report gives the misimpression that the president's oldest son was collaborating with WikiLeaks on the release of the Clinton campaign emails. Donald Trump Jr. had direct electronic communications with WikiLeaks during the campaign period, it stated. In fact, Trump got an unsolicited message through his Twitter account from WikiLeaks. He described the outreach as weird in an email to senior Trump campaign staff at the time. Other contemporaneous messages make it clear he had no advance knowledge about any Clinton emails released by WikiLeaks. The FBI first began receiving memos from Steele's dossier in early July 2016 and used the documents as the foundation for its October 2016 application for a warrant to wiretap the private communications of Page. These milestones are missing from the Mueller reports chronology of events. In fact, neither Steele nor his dossier is mentioned by name anywhere in the first half of the report dealing with collusion, though their allegations are hashed out. Some Mueller critics are focused on the role played by his top prosecutor, Andrew Weissmann, a Democrat and Hillary Clinton supporter with longstanding ties to Steele and Fusion GPS. Andrew Weissmann, now a senior fellow at NYU Law. Weissman had a lot to do with the way the report was written, said author Jerome Corsi, who, as a friend of Trump confidant Roger Stone, was targeted by Mueller. Thats why its basically a political document. Corsi said he spent more than 40 hours with Muellers prosecutors and investigators, who grilled him about possible ties to WikiLeaks but never charged him with a crime. Formerly a top Justice Department official under Obama, Weissmann not only donated to Clintons presidential campaign but also attended her election-night party in New York City in November 2016. Three months earlier, he was briefed on Steele's dossier and other dirt provided by the Clinton contractor and paid FBI informant. In early 2017, Weissmann helped advance the Russia collusion narrative by personally sharing Steele's and Fusions dirt on Trump and his advisers with Washington reporters. In an April 2017 meeting he arranged at his office, Weissmann gave guidance to four Associated Press reporters who were investigating Manafort, according to internal FBI documents. Among other things, they discussed rumors that Manafort used "some of the money from shell companies to buy expensive suits. A month later, Weissmann became the lead prosecutor handling the Manafort case for Mueller. His February 2018 indictment of Manafort highlights, among other things, the Trump adviser's taste for expensive suits. Attempts to reach Weissmann for comment were unsuccessful. Edward Baumgartner: worked for Fusion GPS Judicial Watch President Tom Fitton said there are signs Mueller may have hired researchers like Fusion GPS founder Glenn Simpson, who worked with Steele on the dossier, along with Edward Baumgartner and Nellie Ohr, who have worked for Fusion GPS, which originally hired Steele in June 2016 after contracting with the Clinton campaign. I ran into Glenn at the 2017 Aspen Security [Forum], and I distinctly remember him leaning in and claiming he was working for the government, said one associate, who wished to remain anonymous. Congressional investigators say Simpson, a former Wall Street Journal reporter, has been feeding Democratic leaders in both the House and Senate investigative tips regarding Trump and his associates, including Manafort. In 2017, for instance, he urged Democrats specifically to look into the bank records of Deutsche Bank, which has financed some of Trumps businesses, because he suspected some of the funding may have been laundered through Russia. Around the time Simpson began coordinating with Democratic investigators looking into Trump's bank records, Mueller subpoenaed Deutsche Bank for financial records for Manafort and other individuals affiliated with Trump. Simpson did not return calls and emails seeking comment. Founded by the journalist-turned-opposition researcher, Fusion has rehired Steele to continue his anti-Trump work with millions of dollars in left-wing funding from The Democracy Integrity Project, a Washington-based nonprofit started in 2017 by former FBI analyst Daniel Jones, who also worked for Democratic Sen. Dianne Feinstein. In March 2017, Jones met with FBI agents to provide them data he collected from IT specialists he hired to analyze web traffic between servers maintained by the Trump Organization and a Russian bank mentioned in the dossier. The traffic turned out to be innocuous marketing emails, or spam. What takes thirty minutes in the states will take all day here. Sometimes more. Thats what David Ariosto was told by his housemate upon moving to Cuba in 2009 to work in CNNs Havana bureau. In his excellent 2018 book, This Is Cuba, Ariosto described in detail what life was like in a country with a centrally planned economy: endless waits for seemingly everything, including basic items like spark plugs, car door latches and.sinks. Ariostos was stolen from his rental house early on, with no replacement in sight. The antiquated cars that populate the island are in such desperate shape that cabdrivers instruct passengers to very gingerly close their doors. Something as simple to fix (in the United States) as an inoperative door can take many months in Cuba. And then there are the grocery stores. Theres no arriving midday. Whats even somewhat worth buying has already been picked clean by then. Empty store shelves are the norm. It turned out that Ariostos housemates lament about access to consumer goods was true. As Ariosto wrote about a shopping trip during his early days in Cubas capital, Beer, toilet paper, milk, cookies, and a few vegetables were all I had to show for an entire afternoon of shopping. Too bad there was no Amazon for Ariosto while he lived in Havana Amazon rates prominent mention in consideration of the latest freakout about the Seattle-based company; the practice of eavesdropping on conversations taking place among Alexa users. According to the Washington Posts Geoffrey Fowler, the reporter who seemingly broke whats not much of a story, Alexa keeps a record of what it hears every time an Echo speaker activates. Goodness, let's hope so. If Alexa is going to be an automated assistant, better that she (?) develop a sense of my wife and me, what our preferences are, what we most often request, what she cant help us with, etc. And while Fowler doesnt accuse Alexa of always listening, I wish the automated assistant listened with greater frequency. Figure that the more Alexa listens to my wife and me, along with our daughter, the better Amazon can get to know us. Indeed, imagine the opposite scenario as previously described in Cuba. Misery is not when the businesses who aim to serve us know our wants and needs; rather its an effect of them not knowing or caring what we want. In Cuba, and in other countries where profits are illegal (or were illegal), there aren't any Amazon-style companies going out of their way to meet the needs of their customers. Its an awful existence. Again, imagine having to spend much of your day just to get a few basic items; items that Amazon can increasingly deliver to you within hours? To which some who claim to be libertarian will respond that what Amazons doing is an invasion of privacy, that its right out of Orwells 1984, and arent you a libertarian? Yes to the final question. Unknown is whether those asking the question are. To the privacy-minded its not unreasonable to ask if Amazon held a gun to their head and made them buy the Echo. The question is rhetorical. As for it supposedly having 1984 connotations, please. Try to be serious. If youre buying something in the market economy, your purchases are being tracked. This is a good thing. Tracking of our wants and needs is how businesses can constantly improve when it comes to serving us. Absent the desire of businesses to learn everything they can about us, shopping for anything would be quite a bit more like a day in Cuba than most readers realize. To which some will say that Amazon should have at least told customers that Alexa keeps a record of what it hears every time an Echo speaker activates. Ok, so what if she did? Would the tens of millions of Echo users really be fearful of what Alexa picks up with every wake word? Whats logically collected is normally a request, or a question. Alexa keeps a record of these things so that she can constantly improve her handling of customer questions and requests. As many of us know, some questions cant be answered, and some requests cant be carried out. The record-keeping is Amazons way of improving what tens of millions use. Which brings us to the next question: now that you know Alexa keeps a record of your questions and requests, will you quit her? Judging by Amazons stock price the last several days, the answer is no. The cylindrical gadget is way too convenient to go without, and its convenient precisely because Alexa keeps a record of what it hears every time an Echo speaker activates. Lastly, some will say Alexas eavesdropping is evidence of the parent companys excessive power over consumers. Actually, it signals the opposite. You see, Amazon spends billions on all sorts of concepts (including spectacular failures) in order to understand its customers better, and also in the hope that occasionally one of its consumer offerings will prove a winner. Alexa, like Kindle before it, and like Amazon itself, was the rare success among all-too-frequent failures. Translated, its precisely because Amazon understands how precarious is its status as the worlds greatest online retailer that it constantly rolls out new ways to meet our needs. Alexa doesnt signal an arrogant Amazon; rather it signals an Amazon that is so fearful of losing its precious customers that it spends billions annually in search of what will keep them coming back. Geoffrey Fowler wrote whats not a story. Sad is that so many readers thought it was one. No, Amazon is just trying to do well by its customers. The simple truth, one that Cubans would be all-too-eager to tell the easily hurt and offended, is that they couldnt handle the frustrating reality of shopping minus the brilliance of companies like Amazon. The majority rules. This principle is a fundamental within systems of self-government. Sometimes that majority may be huge; at other times, it may be razor thin. Either way, the will of the majority prevails. But even as it allows the majority to work its will, a governing system must also protect the rights of the minority. Americas founding fathers recognized this. They passed the Bill of Rights to ensure that every American enjoys basic rights rights that cannot be taken away, even by a near unanimous majority. One governing body where the majority rules is the House of Representatives. There, the leaders of the majority party wield tremendous power. And all too often, that power is being used to shut out the minority party. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., has repeatedly exercised her power in ways that deny Republican members the opportunity to speak on behalf of the Americans they represent. However, just as the Bill of Rights assures certain rights for all Americans, so the rules of the House assure a few basic rights to the minority party. One of those protected rights is the ability to offer one amendment to each major bill. That amendment is called a Motion to Recommit or MTR. House Republicans have exercised their right to offer MTRs judiciously so well, in fact, that they have been able occasionally to garner significant Democratic support despite opposition from Speaker Pelosi. In February, Republicans offered an MTR to support Israel. It passed with zero votes against itthe first MTR to pass the House since 2010. Just two weeks later, another MTR passed. The amendment provided that illegal immigrants who try to purchase a firearm illegally would be reported to Immigration and Customs Enforcement. These Democratic defections from the progressive party line do not sit well with Speaker Pelosi and her far-left colleagues. But many of the House Democrats who unseated Republicans in 2018 ran not as progressives but as pragmatic and moderate problem-solvers. This positioning has led some to support Republican MTRs. And, by voting with the minority and against their leadership, theyve proven that MTRs are not mere procedural votes. Rather, they are votes that can affect meaningful policy change. This should lead voters in their districts to scrutinize each and every MTR vote. For example, why did 227 Democrats vote against ensuring that only U.S. citizens vote in our elections? Did the people of central Virginia or Iowa really believe this is how they would be represented when they elected Abigail Spanberger or Abby Finkenauer or Cynthia Axne? Or why did all but two Democrats turn their backs on victims of domestic violence who believe they are in mortal danger and need a firearm to protect themselves from an abusive partner or spouse? Is that what the people of Southwestern Pennsylvania or the Dallas area were expecting when they voted for Connor Lamb and Colin Allred? Or why did 213 Democrats abandon the children of veterans by refusing to protect them from child care workers with records of sexual abuse or violent crime? Is that what the folks in Utah and Long Island, N.Y., hoped to see from Ben McAdams and Max Rose? Yes, Democrats capitalized on a favorable election year and won the majority of seats in the House. But many of those new members won by promising to represent the will of the majority of their district. In 2020, the opponents of swing-district Democrats are sure to remind voters of how their representatives voted on common-sense, mainstream MTRs. Moderate House Democrats would do well to remember that, at the polling booths, it is the majority, not the Majority Leader, that rules. Jessica Anderson is former associate director of intergovernmental affairs for the Office of Management and Budget and current vice president of Heritage Action. What Happened Timed to the May 8 anniversary of the U.S. withdrawal from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) nuclear deal in 2018, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani announced that Iran would suspend two of its commitments made under the deal. First, it would no longer limit low-enriched uranium stockpiles to 300 kilograms or limit heavy water stockpiles to 130 metric tonnes. Second, Rouhani said Iran would give the remaining parties in the JCPOA (Germany, France, the United Kingdom, the European Union, Russia and China) 60 days to fulfill their commitments to the oil sector and banking sector cooperation that Iran understands to be integral to the deal's implementation. If they fail, Iran will increase its nuclear program development efforts. Why the U.S. Is Honing Its Anti-Iran Campaign In recent weeks, the United States has intensified its sanctions-heavy campaign against Iran. In April, it designated the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps as a foreign terrorist organization, and then in May, it declined to extend waivers for Iran's oil customers to continue purchases. Last week, Washington also extended most of the waivers related to Iran's civilian nuclear program, but it did not extend two critical waivers: one that allowed Iran to export heavy water surpluses to Oman and one that allowed Iran to swap low-enriched uranium that exceeded 300 kg for yellowcake uranium. The U.S. intent is to increase Iran's economic pain to the point of stoking a domestic uprising that weakens the Iranian government's sovereignty and draws Tehran back to the negotiating table. An economic crisis is not guaranteed to prompt a domestic uprising, let alone new negotiations, but the unprecedented severity of the U.S. sanctions campaign is forcing Iran to consider new responses. How Iran Found Itself Backed Into a Corner Over the past year, Iran has been reacting to Washington's strategy, and as Stratfor noted last summer, "the question of Iran's changing its response to the United States' withdrawal from the nuclear deal is no longer whether but when." The material economic benefits of Iran remaining fully in the JCPOA declined to nearly nothing once the United States removed all waivers for Iran's oil customers last week. To some degree, all parties expected a breach. But the way Iran has reacted at least initially displays restraint. The two waivers that the United States removed for its civilian nuclear program meant Iran had a choice: either eventually shut off heavy water production and nuclear enrichment entirely, or eventually violate the JCPOA itself. Iran continues to produce heavy water and low-enriched uranium, but it needs outlets to move them outside its borders so it can remain under JCPOA-mandated stockpile levels. By announcing that it is suspending these two obligations, Iran is directly trying to connect the issue to the waivers that the United States chose not to extend. Iran's leadership has assessed that, over the next few years, it must respond to the U.S. provocations against the JCPOA, not only to ensure its own negotiating credibility but to gain leverage if future talks materialize. Today's moves may not cross the threshold into those that cause the European Union to immediately reapply sanctions or the United States to conduct a limited military strike on Iranian nuclear facilities. However, those actions could come 60 days from now, if Iran follows through on threats to enrich uranium above the 3.67 percent level enshrined in the JCPOA and start modernization work on the Arak heavy water reactor. Both of these directly shorten the breakout timeline for Iran to produce a nuclear weapon. How the U.S. Will Respond Washington's initial response is likely to be threefold. First, the United States will continue to expand and maintain the position of its military force in the Middle East to counter Iran's regional allies. Second, it will increase economic sanctions on Iran and its regional allies, as well as ramp up enforcement of existing sanctions. Washington can do this by casting a wider net of secondary sanctions on Iran's exports and imports that go beyond the current ones, which just prohibit business deals with Iranian entities on the U.S. Treasury Department's sanctions lists. U.S. President Donald Trump has already started this process by announcing sanctions on steel, aluminum, iron and copper. Finally, the United States could also try to further delay Iran's nuclear program's development using cyber activity. This option, or any other covert activity, would not escalate the situation as dramatically as would a military strike, but it could have the desired effect of preventing Iran's nuclear development progress. Why the EU Is in Such a Tough Spot The U.S. pressure campaign and Iran's reaction puts the European Union in an increasingly difficult position. If Brussels possessed any sort of silver bullet to assuage Iran's concerns like the ability to set up a payment mechanism for oil exports that the United States could not sanction it would have likely already used it. However, the instrument in support of trade exchanges (INSTEX) that the European Union has developed isn't currently processing any transactions, and if the bloc uses it to help facilitate non-humanitarian-related transactions with Iran, then the United States will almost certainly sanction the Europeans involved. One of the few ways for the Continent to creatively help Iran avoid an economic or food crisis would be organizing an oil-for-food program akin to the one it has for Iraq. How New Developments Increase the Chances of Conflict As the JCPOA grows weaker, the chances of a military conflict grow higher. Any Iranian nuclear-related activity is increasingly within the crosshairs of the United States and allies like Israel, even if the Iranian activity is measured or within the bounds of the nuclear deal. Washington is also increasingly likely to view any activity by Iranian-backed militant forces against the United States or U.S. allies across the Middle East and North Africa as justification for a possible limited U.S. military strike against Iran and Iranian-allied targets. Even though neither the United States nor Iran wants to instigate an all-out conflict, escalating messages of resolve, such as the deployment of a U.S. carrier group and bombers to the Persian Gulf, communicate Washington's willingness to act on credible threats to U.S. security. And Iran will find itself increasingly obligated to reciprocate in some way. Reprinted with permission from Stratfor Worldview. By Elizabeth Kwiatkowski, 05/09/2019 ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT Elizabeth Kwiatkowski is Associate Editor of Reality TV World and has been covering the reality TV genre for more than a decade. couple Kalani Faagata and Asuelu Pulaa have welcomed a second baby boy into their family!Kalani announced Wednesday night on Instagram she had given birth to a son whom they named Kennedy, and she also shared a YouTube video featuring part of her experience in the delivery room and the baby's first few days.In the video, Kalani's water had broken and she was bravely enduring contractions with Asuelu, their son Oliver, Kalani's sister Kolini and her mother in the room. Meanwhile, Kalani's father was situated nearby in the waiting room for family members."I am so excited. I finally get to see my newborn baby," Asuelu said in the video he recorded himself.Suddenly, footage cut to Asuelu cutting the umbilical cord and the baby being placed on Kalani's lap. Asuelu then got to hold his newborn child.Oliver, who was born in January 2018, also got to touch and become acquainted with his new little brother. Later in the video, Kalani and Asuelu documented taking the newborn home.Kennedy arrived on Tuesday, May 7, at 9:11AM after nearly 11 hours of labor, according to Us Weekly.Kalani revealed she gave birth "medicine free."She and Asuelu found out they were expecting Baby No. 2 less than a year after welcoming Oliver into the world.Kalani reacted to the pregnancy news poorly at first as shown on an episode of 's sixth season and was the target of criticism as a result."I had antepartum depression while pregnant with Oliver, to the point that I wanted to kill myself," Kalani explained in her defense in December 2018."Once the baby came, I had postpartum depression: I wasn't bonding with him, I cried all the time and wanted to die again. Please know that I was concerned about the well-being of my son because of my mental state when I'm pregnant , not that I was ungrateful to be pregnant."Back in January, Kalani -- who married Asuelu in September 2018 after Oliver's arrival -- revealed the sex of her second child as well as her April 2019 due date.Kalani from Orange County, CA, met Asuelu from Samoa in July 2016 when she had traveled to Samoa and stayed at a resort for which Asuelu served as the activities director.The couple kept in touch and a relationship blossomed, resulting in Kalani deciding to visit Samoa again to see her love interest.During her second visit, Kalani lost her virginity and ultimately had a surprise pregnancy, which rocked and initially disappointed her entire Mormon family.Kalani and Asuelu therefore went ahead with the K-1 visa process so Asuelu could move to the United States and become a hands-on father and eventual husband.Asuelu arrived in America for the first time when Oliver was only five months old, so that means Asuelu's first trip to America was in late June or July of last year.'s sixth season ended with Kalani learning she's pregnant again and getting married to Asuelu. Porterville, CA (93257) Today Cloudy with occasional showers this afternoon. High around 55F. Winds SSE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 80%.. Tonight Rain likely. Low 42F. SSE winds shifting to WNW at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 100%. Rainfall near a half an inch. Sources said Unsworth had submitted a one-page letter indicating his interest in Jet but without any accompanying documents. British entrepreneur Jason Unsworth has submitted an expression of interest to invest in Jet Airways, claiming support of its founder Naresh Goyal. But sources from public sector banks, which were steering the resolution process for the airline, said Unsworth's offer would not be considered at this stage. Goyal too has denied association with Unsworth, terming his claims as mischievous and misleading. The development comes two days before the deadline for submission of binding offers. Private equity firms IndiGo Partners, TPG and Jet's strategic partner Etihad were shortlisted at the EoI stage on April 12. While private equity firms have backed out from the race, the frequent visits of Etihad executives to Mumbai have restarted a buzz that the Abu Dhabi-based carrier is still keen on Jet. Sources indicated that Etihad was searching for a joint investment partner. Etihad did not comment. Unsworth, a former flight steward with Ryan Air, tweeted on Tuesday: Last night our consortium submitted to SBI the EoI document. In a second tweet, he listed Lakshay Uttam (My World Venture), Lalit Verma (Future Trend Capital), Dhiiraj (Redcliffe Capital), Naresh Goyal (Jet Air) and Sachin Nalawade (Malhar Hospitality & Events) as the consortium partners. Unsworth, who set up Atmosphere Intercontinental Airlines in 2005 to launch services between India and the UK, has shown repeated interest to take over Jet since its collapse. Sources said Unsworth had submitted a one-page letter indicating his interest in Jet but without any accompanying documents. They added that the offer cannot be considered at this stage, which is way past the EoI submission date. Lenders would have to take a call on the offer later, depending upon the result of the bid process, they said. Unsworths claims came under scrutiny. This is to clarify that he (Naresh Goyal) is not part of any consortium and this information is mischievous and misleading, Namrata Goyal tweeted. Goyal had earlier teamed up with Future Trend Capital to submit an EoI for investing in Jet. But, he withdrew the offer, citing paucity of time. Sources however said he was pressured to exit after other bidders threatened to walk out of the process. On Tuesday, he wrote to employees, expressing hope for a positive outcome of the bid process and revival of the airline. Photograph: Punit Paranjpe/Reuters Flipkart Supermart is already live in Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad and Delhi Walmart-owned e-commerce firm Flipkart on Wednesday unveiled Flipkart Supermart, its online grocery store, in Mumbai. The launch guarantees customers access to high quality products and offers, and convenient delivery options in grocery shopping, the company said. Flipkart Supermart is already live in Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad and Delhi. It competes with Amazon and other online grocers such as Bigbasket, Grofers, Swiggy and Google-backed Dunzo, which are all in a fierce battle with each other to dominate this space. Of the entire retail market in the country, grocery comprises 60 per cent. Analysts estimate its size would be anywhere between $400 billion and $600 billion. It has the potential to cross $700 billion by 2022. With Flipkart Supermart, we see tremendous potential for us to leverage our expertise in logistics and technology to give customers the maximum savings, convenience, quality, and breadth of selection, said Manish Kumar, head of grocery at Flipkart. Our grocery business has grown phenomenally over the past year, making this the right time for us to bring our seamless shopping experience to Mumbaikers, said Kumar. Currently, the platforms groceries portfolio spans fast-moving consumer goods and dairy products, with a private label offering that also offers staples. At present, Flipkart delivers in 91 pincodes in Mumbai, which represents 75 per cent of the citys serviceable pincodes, covering western and central suburbs and Navi Mumbai. With the launch of Supermart in western India, Flipkart said it expected to collaborate with farmers, producer organisations and local micro, small and medium enterprises to create a sustainable ecosystem and add jobs. The company has set up a separate supply chain for groceries in Mumbai, which includes fulfillment centres and a last-mile delivery network that are custom-designed to solve for some of the unique challenges the city poses. As part of the launch, the firm said Flipkart Supermart promised free delivery on orders above Rs 600 and also Re 1 deals - a concept pioneered by Flipkart. Built from scratch to cater for grocery-specific needs, the firm said Flipkart Supermart offered goods delivery at doorstep at a preferred time slot. The products come with best before date, which is present for each item on the display page. Keypoints Flipkart Supermart already live in Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad and Delhi. In the grocery space, Flipkart competes with Amazon, Bigbasket, Grofers, Swiggy, Dunzo Grocery segment has the potential to cross $700 billion by 2022. According to the company, it provides a grocery shopping experience that is customised for enabling users to buy multiple items and get direct access to offers, quick buys and top deals. Select customers have access to an offering where they can keep on buying groceries and pay by the 10th of next month. The platform also allows customers to verify products at the time of delivery and can return individual products. The category can be accessed through Flipkart's Android and iOS mobile apps as well as its desktop and mobile websites. In February, food-delivery start-up Swiggy announced it would deliver groceries through its new service, Swiggy Stores. The Naspers-backed firm had raised $1 billion last December. Swiggy was already piloting the initiative in Gurugram, and had tied up with 3,500 local stores and merchants to launch the service across all major cities in the country. Guess who is FB's biggest political advertiser after BJP? Leading e-commerce player Flipkart emerged as the biggest political Facebook advertiser after the ruling party. It spent nearly Rs 18 lakh on public service advertisements on the importance of voting. This makes it the biggest spender after the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Facebook makes available a weekly list of the biggest spenders on advertisements on issues of political or national importance as part of its transparency policies. The latest data is for the week between April 28 and May 4. Flipkart is one of two entities in the top five list for public service advertisements. The second is Kanpur-based skincare player Venus Creme Bar which spent Rs seven lakh on a separate voter awareness campaign. This marks an interesting departure from previous weeks when political parties largely dominated the top spenders. The two companies spent on public service advertisements asking people to vote, than by the majority of campaigning parties spent on seeking votes for themselves. The Indian National Congress and the All India Trinamool Congress were third and fourth respectively in the weekly top five list of Facebook advertisers. This could well be because spending has slowed down as elections have wound down. Indeed, overall spends fallen 13 per cent at Rs 2.5 crore compared to the previous week which saw Rs 2.91 crore, itself an 18.4 per cent rise over the previous week. But the BJP appears to be the biggest spender so far. Four out of the top five pages in terms of money spent on political advertising endorse the BJP or its candidates. They together account for over 30 per cent of the overall Facebook spends. The top search-terms for the week include the BJP, Congress Party Punjab and Modi. The total amount spent on political advertising is Rs 22.86 crore on Facebook. The total number of such advertisements is 103,700. Search engine giant Google also releases similar data. There have been 14,328 such advertisements on its platform. The total amount spent is Rs 25.2 crore since February 19, 2019. The BJP seems to be driving a lot of the incremental spending here as well. Its spending rose from Rs 11.6 crore as of May 2, to Rs 14.8 crore as of May 8. Spending was flat for all the other four in the top-five list. They include Tamil Nadus Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam. The Yuvajana Sramika Rythu Congress Party from Andhra Pradesh and Telangana also features on the list. There are also two companies in the list. Unlike Flipkart and Venus Creme, their spending seems focused on political promotion. The Pramanya Strategy Consulting and Auburn Digital Solutions appear to have promoted the Andhra Pradesh Telugu Desam Party (TDP) chief N Chandrababu Naidu. Sachin P Mampatta in Mumbai Photograph: Reuters 'Legalised election betting would drive black money and satta operators out of business while creating a more level and transparent playing field for politics,' argues Devangshu Datta. IMAGE: Voters wait to cast their vote at a polling station in Ranchi, May 6, 2019. Photograph: PTI Photo One major problem with India being an electoral democracy is that it is a hugely expensive process. Quite apart from what the Election Commission claims it spends, it co-opts many bureaucrats from all cadres. Those babus being pulled off their normal tasks imposes large indirect costs. In addition to what the EC spends, and the opportunity costs imposed, there's the whole dirty business of campaign funding and spending. There are the large sums officially spent by political parties (and rich Independent candidates). There are vastly larger 'off-book' truckloads of cash spent on hiring goons, handing out illegal inducements to voters, etc. Every businessman I know complains bitterly about politicians forcing them to cough up large sums, both under-the-table in cash and in cheque contributions as well as 'soft contributions' like the use of vehicles, for every election. The BJP, to its credit, introduced sweeping changes, which made it easier for political parties to raise large sums while making it impossible for voters to figure out the identity of political donors. Earlier, it was illegal to source funding from overseas corporate entities, and all corporate contributions were limited to a percentage of historical profits recorded by the donor. The contributions had to be mentioned upfront, both in the corporate balance sheet as well as the accounts submitted by the party. Anonymous cash donations were limited to Rs 20,000 at one go. In practice, this just meant political parties issued multiple receipts for larger cash donations. This system was by no means perfect, but it did mean some degree of transparency. If a company appeared to be unduly favoured by a political party, and the said company had donated to the party in question, there was a smoking gun in the form of circumstantial links. An overseas entity could not directly influence an election by pumping money in. Moreover, since the donor had to have a track record of profitability, it wasn't that easy to set up a shell company and anonymously funnel political contributions through that. The BJP made it entirely legal for an overseas entity to pump money into an Indian election. The linkage to profitability was also removed, making it easy to set up shell companies solely for the purpose of making large political contributions. Finally, in a masterstroke, the election bond was conceptualised to give donors strong assurances of anonymity, thus sparing them the scrutiny of voters. This makes it a lot easier for the ruling dispensation to hand out favours to corporates and to receive concrete pecuniary benefits in return without leaving a direct paper trail. In tandem, the BJP also made one of those ridiculously theatrical moves. It lowered the limit for anonymous cash contributions to Rs 2,000. This just meant political parties issued more receipts when they accepted cash donations. Although electoral bonds have been challenged in the Supreme Court, it's unlikely that any political party will really want to reintroduce transparency to fund-raising. Most politicians are gamblers: They spend vast sums in the hope of winning elections. The current system vastly improves the prospects of raising funds for winners, and most politicians will gamble on being able to win rather than cut off sources of potential lucre. But purely as a theoretical exercise, consider a system where political parties are funded by government largesse. Such systems exist in most democratic nations -- in fact, India is the big exception to the rule. In some places, public funding occurs side-by-side with direct contributions to the party or the individual candidate (funding may be matched to direct contributions as in the USA). This reduces scope for cronyism. The extra burden on the exchequer can be easily met. Many billions are bet illegally in the satta market on election outcomes. Just legalise betting on elections, and skim 33% tax off the top. That's how lotteries are taxed. Legalised election betting would truly be a masterstroke. It would drive black money and satta operators out of business while creating a more level and transparent playing field for politics. This is, of course, why it will never happen. 'I am not a politician removed from the people, I get constant feedback from top to bottom, my connect with the masses is direct, not through the media, so I know what is going on.' Saisuresh Sivaswamy listens to the PM explain why he believes 'for the first time in this country, a pro-incumbency wave is on.' Given how interesting it is to see one-on-one interviews rather than a panel go at each other, saying the same old things on different TV channels, it is a mystery why each prime time capsule doesn't include at least one interview. Wednesday night saw the Trinamool Congress's voice of articulation, Derek O'Brien, speak to NDTV's Nidhi Razdan on the daily slanging match between his party chief Mamata Banerjee and Prime Minister Narendra Damodardas Modi. And the latter himself doing something unusual -- granting an interview on the campaign trail to a second-rung journalist from a TV network when the top bosses from all media houses must be lining up to talk to him. Republic TV, leading with hashtag #JustModi, chose to do what it does best, get outraged over the revelations that Rajiv Gandhi (yawn) in 1988 took along his family aboard a naval warship, for which, of course, his children must answer now, probably pay up the bill too while at it, and if possible abjure public life for the omissions and commissions of their later father. O'Brien pointed out something unusual about Modi's campaign speeches -- the non-mention of demonetisation which, till the other day, was touted as a major achievement against black money/terrorism. What he didn't say was that there was no mention of Vikas, Achche Din either, all campaign hot buttons from 2014. That is because, O'Brien was convinced, 'The people have made up their minds, the momentum is with the Opposition and in Bengal it is with Mamata.' . 'We are getting news that in the elections so far, the regional parties are doing well. In Uttar Pradesh the Mahagathbandhan between the Samajwadi Party and Bahujan Samaj Party is going well.' That the Bharatiya Janata Party expects a reasonably good harvest from Bengal is no secret. That it is fast emerging as an alternative -- however distant -- is also no secret. Those who scoff at the chasm between the TMC and the BJP in terms of both seat share and vote share are ignoring the fact that the BJP has, through its organisational network and relentless mobilisation, turned a similar situation in many states to its advantge. Like in Maharashtra where, from playing second fiddle to the Shiv Sena, it is the ruling party today. If such recent history worries O'Brien, he showed no signs of it. 'They don't have a single speaker in Bengali, even their Hindi speeches are not translated into Bengali,' he said. 'Will their own party president in the state be able to win his seat this time? They have two ministers from the state, will they be able to win their seats?' 'It is a noble objective to become the principal Opposition party, but the Modi-Amit Shah combine will be shown up in Bengal.' While fighting fire with fire may be a good strategy, putting it into practice during election time means that the discourse gets dragged into the mud, something Mamata Banerjee can also be accused of. A street-fighter turned chief minister, she is not one to take barbs -- throwing which Modi is a past master at -- lying down. But does it behove her office to use phrases like 'drenched in blood' while referring to the prime minister, Nidhi wanted to know, and got back a very BJPesque response. 'That is factual, she was only stating the facts,' O'Brien said. Speaking to Times Now, Modi too was convinced that the people have made up their minds. Debunking the view that his government was facing voter ire and may not secure a majority on its own, Modi said, 'I am of the view that for the first time in this country, a pro-incumbency wave is on.' Could he put a number to it? 'I have no doubt that we will get a bigger majority than the last time, as will the NDA allies. Our total seat tally will increase, our vote share will also go up compared to last time.' Modi, who is betting this election on his personal charisma with and appeal to the voters, has kept a punishing campaign schedule. The BJP's sole vote-catcher, he has been criss-crossing the country, addressing as many meetings as possible. Asked about the source of his confidence that the BJP will do better, when even within the ruling front there have been voices of caution, Modi said, 'This confidence does not come from me, but from the people themselves. This confidence stems from the work that we have done, and the people's belief in the work.' 'As you know, I am not a politician removed from the people, I get constant feedback from top to bottom, my connect with the masses is direct, not through the media, so I know what is going on.' In which case it begs the question why, instead of focusing on real issues in the campaign, he is talking about Pakistan etc? 'I have been raising the real issues,' said Modi, 'But the Opposition is not interested in debating them. I told them let us discuss development, let us discuss various other issues, but they ran away, they are not interested.' 'As for Pakistan, I have only raised terrorism which has been an issue for 40 years. You must remember that this is not an election for the Rohtak municipality or the Kurukshetra municipality, but an election for India.' Turning to his pet subject, the Congress dynasty, Modi referred to an India Today interview with Rahul Gandhi but without taking his name. 'In an interview their naamdaar has said he wants to destroy Modi's image, look at the language used, he says he wants to destroy me. But those who are upset at me for asking questions, have not said anything about this.' 'But I can understand why he is saying this, how can a chaiwallah like me dare to ask a naamdaar anything? How can a chaiwallah speak the truth?' But does it justify Modi raising questions about a dead prime minister, and asking for elections to be fought on it? 'I did not ask the questions, but the people have asked these questions. You ask questions of the current prime minister, and the nation will ask questions of the former prime minister.' If there was one thing Modi was thankful to Rahul Gandhi for, it was his mention that Modi's karma will catch up with him. 'I am glad he said this, it is because of my karma that someone from a humble background like me, whose parents, grandparents were not prime ministers, could reach the high office that I am occupying today, my karma will take me ahead, so I am thankful to him for pointing this out.' Since a famous NRI Bollywood actor interviewed Modi, it has become mandatory that all interviews include an aam question, and this was Times Now's: Modiji, what is the secret of your mann ki shanti? To which the prime minister replied: Janta ka pyaar. 'These things are not forgotten, it will haunt the Supreme Court for a long time.' IMAGE: Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi. On May 6, 2019, a three-judge panel investigating sexual harassment allegations against Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi, while giving him a clean chit, said it did not find any substance in the allegations levelled by the complainant, a former Supreme Court employee. This is the first time in the history of the Indian judiciary that a sitting Chief Justice of India has been accused of sexual misdemeanour. The following day, on May 7, 2019, protests broke out outside the apex court, with several activists and lawyers protesting the procedure adopted by the three-judge panel, led by Justice Sharad Arvind Bobde, in dealing with the allegations against the CJI. "From the word go, the inquiry went against every known canon of administrative law. It violated the rules of procedure, it violated the Constitutional rights of the lady, it violated the rules of natural justice in every possible form," Dushyant Dave, below, Supreme Court senior advocate and former president of the Supreme Court Bar Association, tells Rediff.com's Swarupa Dutt over the telephone from New Delhi. "The judiciary has singularly and miserably failed in upholding the law, or at least failed in upholding the dignity of the woman concerned and in giving her justice," Dave adds. For the first time in the history of the Indian judiciary a sitting Chief Justice of India has been accused of sexual harassment. How do you see the clean chit that has been given to him by the three-judge panel? Critics say it has eroded the credibility of the judiciary. It's for the first time in the history of the judiciary the world over, not just the Indian judiciary, that a sitting Chief Justice has been accused of sexual harassment. It's a most unfortunate episode. The committee report exonerating the CJI, in a hasty manner and in a manner which was not judicious, has really added to the unfortunate nature in which the issue was handled and has eroded the image of the Supreme Court to a great extent. Nationwide protests were held by women lawyers and activists and many were detained on May 7. Is there a sense of disquiet in the Supreme Court over the issue? Judges definitely think they are above the law, that is why they have got together and issued a clean chit to the CJI. Judges have often given lofty lectures to the public on law and justice; handed out the landmark Vishaka judgment. But when it comes to themselves, the judiciary has singularly and miserably failed in upholding the law, in upholding the dignity of the woman concerned and in giving her justice. This is such a serious matter that it is bound to raise debates in the minds, if not in the hearts of the people. The matter is on the lips of everyone in the corridors of the Supreme Court and everyone is concerned and disturbed at the way the committee has handled the matter. But Justices S A Bobde, Indira Banerjee and Indu Malhotra who comprised the three-member panel, are highly respected judges. The manner in which the inquiry was conducted goes against every established norm of conducting an inquiry. You have to understand that the Constitution does not afford any protection to judges over personal misconduct. Only the President and the governors are given protection while they hold office. As far as the CJI goes, it's (the charges are) about personal conduct and not judicial conduct. In this instance, it is sexual harassment. Tomorrow if a judge commits murder, are the judges going to say that his crime will be determined by an in-house committee and therefore once the in-house committee exonerates him he is exonerated over the charge of murder? It's ridiculous. The manner in which this inquiry has been carried out is absolutely unacceptable and unprecedented. Critics say the CJI should have stepped down till his name was cleared. What do you think? I think the CJI should have resigned. If they really wanted to protect the reputation of the Supreme Court, he should have resigned straightaway. Look, sexual harassment is a very serious charge. The charge was strongly corroborated by the alleged events that took place prior to the day of the alleged incident and subsequently. And the large-scale victimisation that followed thereafter is unheard of. This is absolutely inhuman, it violates her human rights and it is really unacceptable. The Chief Justice should have resigned on these very grounds. The judges on the panel should have forced him to resign. But the three eminent judges did conduct an inquiry. From the word go, the inquiry went against every known canon of administrative law. It violated the rules of procedure, it violated the Constitutional rights of the lady, it violated the rules of natural justice in every possible form. This kind of inquiry was definitely not in the purview of the in-house panel which should only be confined to judicial acts. Supposing there is a charge of corruption against a judge, an inquiry can be conducted by a committee or a panel of judges, but not when it is a personal offence, like in this case. Please remember, that sexual harassment is a cognisable, non-bailable offence. Were you surprised when the CJI was handed a clean chit? I was shocked, not surprised. I also deeply disturbed and discomfited by what has happened. Can the complainant challenge the clean chit given to the CJI? It is not necessary to challenge the clean chit because, after all, it is an administrative, in-house procedure. The difficulty is that they have tried to shut the debate in the country by giving the CJI a clean chit. But they forget that the nation is watching and by and large people have not accepted the manner in which the committee went about its inquiry. People are asking serious questions and doubting the authenticity of the whole exercise. I have no doubt that the lady concerned will exercise her rights and pursue remedies, but if the inquiry report is released it may prejudice the lower courts where she may seek justice. IMAGE: An activist being held by the police during the protest outside the Supreme Court against the 'clean chit' given to CJI Ranjan Gogoi in the sexual harassment case. Photograph: ANI Photo So, what should she do? She can file a criminal complaint, which I have no doubt she will do. She can challenge her dismissal as a Supreme Court employee, get redressal for the victimisation of her family ... she should do everything possible. I do hope and pray that the lower judiciary and the high court come to her rescue. The constitution of the second panel (to investigate the 'larger conspiracy by disgruntled employees') even before the first bench absolved the CJI -- was this indicative of the way the 3-judge committee was headed? There is nothing to the conspiracy theory. The antecedents of the person who has filed the affidavit need to be seen, questioned and tested. I hope and pray to god that Justice A K Patnaik, who has been asked to look into it, really steers clear of this completely nonsensical claim that there is a conspiracy. Yes, there certainly was a conspiracy on the part of the Supreme Court registry officials and police officials to harass this girl and her family, and that is what they should inquire into. Justice Gogoi has described the allegation against him as a conspiracy to 'deactivate the office of the CJI'. Every accused would like to get himself out of the charge made against him by saying something like this. I'm not surprised Justice Gogoi has said that (laughs), but there is no substance to his claim. What were the procedural errors in the way the panel handed the complaint? Right from word go till the end, the panel has misdirected itself. It should have been a panel of independent, external persons. It should have been graded by a woman. It should essentially have comprised women. It should have set down procedures regarding taking down the complaint of the complainant, giving her the opportunity to produce evidence, taking down the statement of the accused, in this case the CJI, and allowing him to produce his witnesses and only after that should they have taken some kind of a decision. This kind of a procedure where you record the statement of the lady, and then the judge, and present some kind of a report is absolutely a sham. It is really surprising that judges who are so well-trained in law have fallen into this kind of a trap. Why do you call it a trap? It is a trap. There is this belief that they have to save the institution of the judiciary and in that process judges are going out of the way to exonerate the CJI instead of realising that if the CJI was put to a fair inquiry, it is only then that the Supreme Court's reputation would have been intact and would have been held in even higher esteem. The common man on the street would have then said that even the Chief Justice is subject to the same treatment that he subjects everybody else to. The protests have stopped. Will this incident too be forgotten soon? Nothing is forgotten, don't worry. We had a judgment during the Emergency (Additional District Magistrate, Jabalpur vs Shivkant Shukla, 1976) where five Supreme Court judges including Justice P N Bhagwati and Justice Y V Chandrachud upheld the right of the government to suspend the Fundamental Rights of citizens during the Emergency. That was our darkest hour and it is still being remembered and judges after judges are still apologising for it even after Justice Bhagwati and Justice Chandrachud had apologised. These things are not forgotten, they will be haunting the Supreme Court for a long time. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's allegation that Rajiv Gandhi used INS Viraat as a personal taxi was rejected by former Navy chief Admiral L Ramdas (retd) as well as by a former commanding officer of the aircraft carrier. Vice Admiral Vinod Pasricha (Retd), who was commanding the ship during the then prime minister's visit, said all protocols were followed during Gandhi's official trip in 1987, adding no foreigners or other guests were present. Addressing an election rally in New Delhi on Wednesday, Modi said the former prime minister used INS Viraat as a private taxi and his in-laws were on board the aircraft carrier. "The claim was totally wrong," said Vice Admiral Pasricha (retd). However, another former Navy Commander V K Jaitly (retd), in a tweet, said, 'Rajiv and Sonia Gandhi used INS Viraat for travel to celebrate their holidays at Bangaram island. Indian Navy resources were used extensively. I am a witness. I was posted on INS Viraat that time.' Former Navy Chief Ramdas, who was the Southern Navy Commander, in a statement, said no foreigners visited INS Viraat and that Rajiv Gandhi and his wife were on board the aircraft carrier following all official protocol. 'Prime Minister and Mrs Gandhi were embarked on board INS Viraat off Trivandrum en route Lakshwadeep. The prime minister was at Trivandrum as chief guest for the National Games prize distribution,' the former Navy chief said. 'He was going to Lakshadweep on official duty, to chair a meeting of IDA (Islands Development Authority). This meeting is held alternately in Lakshadweep and in Andamans,' he said. Admiral Ramdas, added, 'There were no foreigners with them. I, as Flag officer Commanding in Chief, Southern Naval Command, based in Cochin, also boarded INS Viraat.' Another former senior Navy officer also termed Modi's claim as 'untrue'. "Due to such claims, even the truth coming from such people (Modi) would be seen as fake information," Vice Admiral I C Rao (Retd) said in Mumbai. Rao, who was the admiral superintendent of the Naval Dockyard in Mumbai in 1987, said, "It is very bad for politicians to make such allegations. I feel that with such continued series of claims, even the true information would be seen as fake." "Such statements are aimed at swaying the voters. I feel the voters should ignore such claims and exercise their right," Rao said. "Rajiv Gandhi along with his family boarded the ship from Thiruvananthapuram to stay aboard for three days. "Lakshadweep island is almost 220 nautical miles from land and helicopter was the only means of transportation then available, so he used the air service from Viraat," he said. "He organised a dinner on board the ship for the ship's crew. It is very bad to spread fake information for some political gain," he said. "I am not a fan of Rajiv Gandhi or his policies, I do not want Navy or any other establishment to be used for political gains," Rao said. 'As a responsible journalist, I want to be on the side of truth.' 'I have highlighted this issue openly and it is up to the Election Commission district officer on what action they want to take.' IMAGE: Rinchen Angmo, editor, Reach Ladakh. Photograph: Kind courtesy Rinchen Angmo/Facebook The Bharatiya Janata Party has been caught on the backfoot after the Leh Press Club complained to the Election commission of India, stating that BJP leaders tried to bribe journalists after a press conference by giving them a bundle of cash. A video of the purported incident is also in circulation on social media, as the entire episode was captured on CCTV. "On May 2, there was a press conference by the BJP and as soon as it was over, Vikram Randhawa, a BJP MLC, gave four journalists an envelope. I asked him what was in the envelope and he said, 'Don't open it now'," Rinchen Angmo, editor of the Reach Ladakh and one of the journalists who was given a bundle of cash, tells Rediff.com. Angmo got suspicious as it was a thick envelope. "As soon as I opened the envelope I saw there was a bundle of Rs 500 notes in it, so I immediately refused to take it and returned it to him. However, Randhawa refused to take it back," says Angmo. She then left the envelope on the table and walked out. Asked if she was asked to write favourable articles on the BJP in exchange, Angmo says, "Now it is common sense why they would want to bribe journalists during elections. There is a Model Code of Conduct on. And he gave the envelope stating it was a 'token of love'. What does this mean? It is a violation of the MCC." When this correspondent pointed out that the BJP denies the episode, Angmo says, "Now they may deny this entire incident, but you know how these politicians are when they get caught. I have only stated what the truth is." "As a responsible journalist, I want to be on the side of truth. I have highlighted this issue openly and it is up to the Election Commission district officer on what action they want to take." "I don't want to comment further," Angmo adds, "as everything can be seen on CCTV." Leh is part of the Ladakh constituency in Jammu and Kashmir and Jamyang Tsering Namgyal is the BJP candidate. The constituency went to the polls on May 6. Morup Stanzin, president of the Leh Press Club, says, "We want an inquiry, it must be conducted. It is a very wrong culture being supported in Leh." BJP MLC Randhawa showed mediapersons in Jammu an invitation to a public meeting by Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman that was given to journalists, which he said was all that happened. Asked about the CCTV footage showing journalist Angmo returning the bundle of cash envelope to him which he refuses to accept, after which she put it back on the table, Randhawa said, 'She only returned the invitation, and there was no bundle of cash in the envelope. She said she was going to cover the rally anyway, so why did she need another special invitation?' 'If there was cash in the envelope,' Randhawa added, 'then she should have exposed it in her own mobile camera right there. Why didn't she do it right away and expose us? Moreover, the same journalists came out and had lunch with us too at that time. So will you not call that lunch as a bribe too?' 'They came out with all these details the next day, on May 3,' Randhawa said. 'If they had to capture this bribe video they should have captured it on their own mobile camera. Why did they waited for one more day to get the CCTV footage and then come out with their expose?' Millions of households have plunged into darkness after Cyclone Fani, one of the worst storms to hit India since 1999, made a landfall in Odisha last week and killed over 40 people. National Aeronautics and Space Administration on Thursday released several images comparing the lighting in Bhubaneswar and Cuttack, often referred as twin cities, before and after the storm. The images show city lighting on April 30 (before the storm) and on May 5, 2019, two days after Fani made landfall. Telecommunication lines snapped in several parts of state capital Bhubaneswar and several other areas. Mobile towers were damaged and power supply was disconnected in many places. A Bhubaneswar report said scores of trees collapsed, blocking roads. The toll in cyclone Fani on Wednesday rose to 41, while power restoration work is on full wing in the affected areas with additional skilled manpower being drawn from other states. The government has sought cooperation of the power consumers and said time is required to fully restore power connection in the cyclone devastated areas. As many as 1.56 lakh new electric poles have been uprooted in the 'extremely severe' cyclone Fani. Photograph: @NASAEarth/Twitter Priyadarshini Scindia, wife of sitting Guna MP Jyotiraditya Scindia, started campaigning in February, going door-to-door, reaching out to a cross-section of voters, listening to their woes and telling them about the work done by her better half. Anil Dubey/PTI reports IMAGE: Priyadarshini Scindia with her husband, the sitting Guna MP Jyotiraditya Scindia. Photograph: @PriyadarshiniRajeScindia/Facebook Behind every successful man is a woman. Priyadarshini Scindia, wife of sitting Guna MP Jyotiraditya Scindia, who has been renominated by the Congress from the seat for the polls on May 12, is out to prove the proverb right as she goes from door-to-door, canvassing for her better half. Guna, considered the pocket borough of the Scindias -- the erstwhile royal family of Gwalior, was one of the only two seats that the Congress managed to bag in the 2014 Lok Sabha elections in Madhya Pradesh. The other seat won by the party was Chhindwara. Priyadarshini Scindia started campaigning in February, even before the Election Commission of India announced the parliamentary polls, giving Jyotiraditya Scindia a head start over his rivals. The Guna MP was appointed the All India Congress Committee general secretary in-charge for western Uttar Pradesh earlier this year. IMAGE: Priyadarshini began reaching out to voters in Guna back in February even before the Election Commission announced the date of the polls. Photograph: @PriyadarshiniRajeScindia/Facebook With her husband pre-occupied with party affairs in the northern state, Priyadarshini Scindia took charge. She has been reaching out to a cross-section of voters, listening to their woes and telling them about the work done by their MP. Her close involvement with the campaign even triggered speculation that she may be formally entering politics this year. Asked about the conjecture, state Congress spokesperson Pankaj Chaturvedi, known to be close to Jyotiraditya Scindia, said, "This is to be decided by the Scindia family and the Congress. But after seeing her interaction and instant connection with local party workers and common citizens at large, I can certainly say that the Congress has got a leader." Chaturvedi said Priyadarshini Scindia has been interacting closely with voters. "Priyadarshini ji has been visiting an average of 10-12 villages on most weekdays since February and has reached out to almost every corner of Guna parliamentary seat," he said. "She collects information about the local problems and informs the people about the work done by Scindia ji. She has been interacting with different communities and social groups," he added. IMAGE: She has been so closely involved in the campaign that it triggered speculation that she too was joining politics. Photograph: @PriyadarshiniRajeScindia/Facebook In the Madhya Pradesh assembly polls last year, the Congress did exceedingly well in Gwalior-Chambal region, considered a bastion of the Scindia family. However, its vote share in Guna was less than the Bharatiya Janata Party's. The Congress bagged five of the eight assembly segments in Guna but it polled 16,000 votes less than the BJP. In 2014, Scindia had won this seat with a margin of around 1 lakh votes. Chaturvedi, however, does not attach much importance to this. "The entry of Scindia ji in the electoral contest decisively tilted the scales in his favour. There is no significance of assembly poll results," he said. IMAGE: The Guna seat has been in the Scindia family since 1952 and Priyadarshini hopes to continue that trend this election too. Photograph: @PriyadarshiniRajeScindia/Facebook The BJP has fielded K P Yadav, a former Congressman who joined the saffron party earlier this year after being denied ticket for Mungaoli assembly bypoll. Guna BJP president Gajendra Sikarwar exuded confidence that Scindia will not be able to retain the seat this time. "Scindia has been representing Guna in Parliament for the past one-and-a-half decade, but did nothing for this region. Now people are asking for an account of his work," Sikarwar said. "Only (Prime Minister Narendra) Modi can save the country and people have started realising this now. Besides, there is huge impact of the development work carried out by the National Democratic Alliance government. People are going to vote to elect a nationalist government," he added. Since 1952, members of the Scindia family have won 14 times from Guna seat. Jyotiraditya Scindia first contested the bypoll from this constituency in 2002, following his father's death in a plane crash. He has held onto the seat ever since. -- INDIA VOTES Bollywood actress Swara Bhasker has taken the political plunge! Well, not completely, but that hasn't stopped the actress from campaigning for her choice of candidates this election. Here's a glimpse of the star on the trail! Swara has been campaigning for East Delhi candidate Atishi from the Aam Aadmi Party with zeal and vigour. Speaking of Atishi, Swara says that she's a politician who banks on her work for the people and not fame. Photograph: @ReallySwara/Twitter Swara along with Jignesh Mevani held a padyatra for the AAP candidate. The star walked into shops with folded hands and addressed shoppers along the way. Asked about her campaigning, Swara says she's doing it for candidates who focus on development issues and on democratic values. Photograph: @ReallySwara/Twitter In April too, Swara lent support to Communist Party of India candidate Kanhaiya Kumar by campaigning for him in Bihar's Begusarai constituency. Swara said she feels "aligned to Kanhaiya's views as a rational and patriotic citizen of the country". Photograph: @ReallySwara/Twitter During one of the roadshows for Kanhaiya, Swara praised the former president of the Jawaharlal Nehru University Students' Union and said she is not campaigning for the real tukde-tukde gang, who practice the divisive politics of hate, polarisation and cater to the needs of only one community or section. Photograph: @ReallySwara/Twitter -- INDIA VOTES A woman was detained for allegedly attempting to throw her footwear at Congress leader and Punjab minister Navjot Singh Sidhu during a public meeting in Rohtak in Haryana. IMAGE: Punjab Minister and Congress leader Navjot Singh Sidhu addresses an election campaign. Photograph: PTI Photo In a short video of the incident, the woman is seen telling police personnel that she threw the slipper because "Sidhu spoke against Modi". Navjot Singh Sidhu has been very critical of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and has often slammed him publicly referring to him as "chowkidar chor hai", following the example of party president Rahul Gandhi. Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday tendered an unconditional apology to the Supreme Court for wrongly attributing his "chowkidar chor hai" remark to the apex court and sought closure of the contempt proceedings against him. In April, a shoe was hurled at Bharatiya Janata Party's national spokesperson GVL Narasimha Rao while he was addressing a media briefing. He, however, had a narrow escape as the shoe did not hit him. At the time of the incident, the BJP spokesperson was talking about fielding Sadhvi Pragya from Bhopal constituency and was criticising Congress for allegedly defaming Hindus. Image shows the piezoelectric properties of a piece of quartz and its ability to generate an electric charge, as a toolmaker hits it Huge growth in use of quartz for tools shows sophistication of ancient communities A growth in the use of crystal quartz to make tools thousands of years ago shows the sophistication of ancient communities, according to new research. The mineral was chosen because of its powerful symbolism, even though it involved painstaking work and other materials that would have been easier to use were available to prehistoric toolmakers, archaeologists argue. Archaeologists have found there was a sudden spike in the number of tiny hand-made tools of less than 1cm made of crystal quartz in southern Africa around 14,000 years ago. People could have used chert, which was more durable and found locally, but they may have chosen crystal quartz because it has several unique properties including as a source of light when it is struck and as a source of sharp cutting edges. Communities may have engaged with crystal quartz because they saw material as alive and believed they were able to harness the power from the mineral to see into the future. The technique of constructing tiny crystal quartz tools would have taken specific sets of skills to master. Crystal quartz was also used in other parts of the world for tools at this time, when other raw materials were available. Crystal quartz is brittle and can fracture, but can give an exceptionally sharp and precise cutting edge. Archaeologists examined two sites, in Sehonghong and Ntloana Tsoana, in Lesotho. We show that although crystal quartz was never the dominant raw material for tool production at either Sehonghong or Ntloana Tsoana, the mineral does show increased frequencies after 14,000 years ago, says first author Justin Pargeter, from Emory University. This pattern is shared between the two sites, separated by 100 kilometers and in very different environments, which suggests that widely dispersed hunter-gatherer groups were connected and engaged with one another. Dr Jamie Hampson, from the University of Exeter, who is co-author of the paper, said: Quartz is abundant in the region, but from a functional point of view it is not the best material for making small tools. It takes more energy and time to use this material. If it flakes well, it can provide an extremely sharp cutting tool. But most of the time it just shatters. We found stone tools became smaller and smaller, there was a spike in their use, and increasingly they were made of crystal quartz instead of chert, which would have been a more readily available rock. We cant say for sure why crystal quartz was used, but it may have been chosen for its unique symbolic qualities. This shows communities were more sophisticated and thoughtful than they were previously given credit for. Evidence from ethnographic texts and also from rock paintings suggests ancient communities at the time in this region and elsewhere around the world - entered a hallucinogenic state. The luminescence caused by the sparks when crystal quartz was hit may have been part of their rituals performed in order to enter an altered state of consciousness and access the spirit world. Dr Hampson has been examining evidence from cave paintings and engravings for 20 years, showing how they depict and embody these rituals. In some places people put pieces of quartz into gaps and cracks in the rock faces, seen by many indigenous communities as the barrier between their world and the spiritual world. TORRINGTON At least 10 arrests in 10 years: thats the record of Richard Lacasse, 31, formerly of the city, whose history of arrests stretches back to 2009. His most recent arrest was weeks ago in Winsted, where he lists his home address as an apartment on Main Street. Lacasse is being held in lieu of $250,000 bail at New Haven Correctional Institution. His court record shows there are seven cases pending against him, five of which are sealed, according to a court clerk, because he is in a program that was not identified. The two cases that are public include charges for two alleged acts of third-degree burglary one dating back to September 2018 and the second on March 27, 2019. Lacasse is also charged with third-degree larceny stemming from the 2018 arrest, and second-degree larceny and criminal mischief from the May arrest for the alleged March 27 break-in and gun theft. Other charges include theft of a firearm and unlawful discharge of a firearm in the March incident. Winsted Police Sgt. Kevin Kinahan filed an arrest warrant affidavit on the most recent charges Tuesday with the Superior Court in Torrington. It states that an alleged burglary in September involved 14 items that were worth $4,000, including jewelry, taken from a house on St. John Street. The items have never been found, the warrant noted. Lacasse was arrested on Sept. 19 for the St. John Street incident, court records show. He was charged the same day for criminal attempt to commit third-degree larceny. The complaint was filed after a nearby homeowner told police that he had seen Lacasse leave the house by a side door. Lacasse posted bond of $10,000 for the two charges. Fast forward to March 27 when a homeowner reported that his home on Walnut Street had been broken into. The homeowner told police, the warrant notes, that a Glock handgun had been stolen from the house, along with games, cash, electronic devices and jewelry. Eight days later, on April 4, a similar burglary occurred, according to the warrant affidavit, at a home on Holabird Avenue. A tenant said a man matching Lacasses description was seen leaving a second-floor apartment. Lascasse, and his wife, Nicole Gurtowsky, 41, were seen in surveillance video at a pawn shop in Waterbury, allegedly trying to sell the items from the Holabird burglary, the warrant affidavit says. The jewelry stolen from the Holabird Avenue home was recovered, Kinahan wrote in the warrant affidavit, and on April 12, Lacasse was charged with third-degree burglary and second-degree larceny. Gurtowsky is charged with second-degree larceny. He admitted to a number of charges, said Winchester Police Chief William Fitzgerald. We were able to clear a lot of cases. Asked about Lacasses cases, Fitzgerald said, He has multiple charges with the town. I like to see him off the streets. I hope he gets help, Fitzgerald said. Kinahan wrote in the affidavit that Lacasse explained his MO is to go to a home during the day, knock on the door, and if someone answered, ask if that is the home of a friend. If no one answered he would kick in the door and steal jewelry or other goods in an effort to support his...addiction, the warrant affidavit says. Lacasse also said that he kicked in the door in the garage of the house on Walnut Street, and crawled under the door to get in the kitchen, the warrant affidavit says. He explained how he found the Glock handgun in the master bedroom and accidentally shot a round into the floor, the warrant affidavit says. Lacasse is scheduled to appear in court again on May 29; he had pleaded not guilty to many of the charges. Gurtowskys next court date is set for June 4; she is being held in lieu of $25,000 bail, online judicial records show. At the end of last year four Latin American countries signed a multilateral framework agreement regarding the disposition of confiscated property resulting from crimes linked to transnational organized crime, significantly advancing the discourse on asset sharing. It signals the political willingness to develop international legal frameworks around asset sharing and the necessity of it. The South American trade bloc, MERCOSUR, includes Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay. The MERCOSUR countries signed the Framework Agreement for the Disposition of Forfeited Assets for Transnational Organized Crime in the MERCOSUR (MERCOSUR Framework Agreement) in December of 2018. Specific steps were laid out by this agreement, describing procedures for how to deal with seized assets as well as the sharing of assets covered by the agreement. Under Article 7, where there has been cooperation in the confiscation of assets, negotiation regarding the distribution of the assets is mandatory. The state requesting the return of assets and the state in whose jurisdiction the asset recovery took place are required to negotiate and agree as to the percentage of confiscated assets in each case that will be distributed, taking into account the cooperation provided as well as: a. The nature and importance of the assets; b. The complexity and importance of the cooperation; [and] c. The incidence of the cooperation provided in the resolution of the case. Disputes between parties regarding interpretation, application, or non-compliance of the provisions of the agreement are resolved through the MERCOSUR dispute resolution system. The MERCOSUR Framework Agreement also places special emphasis on safeguarding the rights of good-faith third parties and compensation for damage to victims. The agreement hasnt been translated into English, but is available in Spanish here. A lack of international agreements or national legislation on the process for asset return or sharing creates a lack of certainty. This may put a chill on willingness to expend state resources in the asset recovery process; a country with limited financial resources may not want to engage in a costly investigation relating to asset recovery without the guarantee of at least negotiations for support. The MERCOSUR Framework Agreement is an important advancement in addressing this concern. However, it is limited to certain organized crimes. Additionally, many proceeds of crime are recovered through settlements. It is possible that a government would argue that a settlement was not a confiscation. Legal language for the definition of proceeds of crime should be harmonized. As the MERCOSUR Framework Agreement is put into action, other countries and multilateral organizations can use it as a model for cooperation and legislation. They can also take advantage expanding the scope of the crimes addressed and revisiting the definition of proceeds of crime to create more robust tools for fighting corruption through asset recovery and sharing. ____ Shirin Ahlhauser, pictured above, is an attorney admitted to practice in Washington, D.C. She works as a Legal Consultant (Sanctions) in the World Banks Office of Suspension and Debarment. The findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed herein are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the World Bank Group, its board of directors or the governments they represent. Rhona Smith, the United Nations Special Rapporteur on Human Rights in Cambodia, concluded her seventh visit to the Southeast Asian nation on Thursday with a list of recommendations for Prime Minister Hun Sens government of ways to improve human rights and make the countrys political space more inclusive. She advised the government to identify those most at risk of being left behind by development efforts, called for protections of the right to peaceful assembly and association, and urged authorities to avoid excessive use of force in the policing of assemblies. Smith also called for the release of opposition Cambodia National Rescue Party (CNRP) president Kem Sokha from detention, where he has been held while under investigation for treason, general legal reforms to ensure that all Cambodians have access to justice, and a greater operating space for civil society. Despite her comprehensive investigation into the situation of human rights in Cambodia, government spokesman Phay Siphan dismissed her recommendations as politically motivated, calling the fate of Kem Sokha a matter of the court and suggesting that NGOs in the country are serving political purposes. Smith spoke to RFAs Khmer Service on Thursday about her visit and discussed how the countrys government can better safeguard rights for all Cambodians. RFA: My first question is about your impression or observation regarding the [request] to visit Kem Sokha. Would you have any kind of statement to make regarding this again? Smith: I regret that I was unable to get permission in order to go and meet with Kem Sokha and the investigating judge was not able to meet with me either. RFA: What would be your purpose of visiting him, should you be allowed to meet him? Smith: Im an independent expert appointed by the human rights council. I should be able to meet with persons in detention anywhere in Cambodia. RFA: Do you think that Kem Sokha will be released any time soon? Smith: In my view, Kem Sokha remains under detention and Ive called upon the government and, indeed, the investigating judge to express my hope that Kem Sokhas investigation is swiftly completed. Its now been more than 18 months and either the trial can proceed or if theres no evidence for a trial, then the charges against him are definitively dropped. RFA: Recently during your visit, the Battambang Court issued at least 26 warrants for 26 CNRP officials to appear before the court regarding their political activities. Do you think this is a breach of human rights in Cambodia amid your visit? Smith: I believe its indicative of the lack of political space in Cambodia and I have concerns in that regard. And it is my hope that there will be a new opening for political culture in Cambodia based on dialogue and mutual respect. RFA: Regarding these CNRP officials, of course, after the CNRP dissolution in late 2017, and also the reallocation of the seats of those elected commune councilors5,007 commune councilors had to relinquish their positions to the ruling party and other partieshave you seen any progress in the democratic space in Cambodia since your last visit? Smith: I see no tangible changes to the political space in Cambodia since my last visit. RFA: In your last report in August, you made several recommendationsa lot of which concerned the freedom and human rights situation. During this visit, have you noticed any significant change or improvement based on those recommendations? Smith: In most of the government meetings I have had, the government minister has taken time to update me on the changes that have been made since my last visit in their area of responsibility and also on responses to my recommendations. RFA: So are you satisfied or, at least, what is your impression regarding these responses? Smith: I think that there has been improvement in some areas of human rights in Cambodia since my last visit, and I welcome some of the indications of openness and willingness, for example, to engage with civil society to try to address access to justice and to redress some of the problems Ive identified with corruption and bribery. RFA: Back to what you have indicated, time and again, that peace and prosperity are in line with human rights, respect and democracy. Do you still maintain this position? Smith: Yes, it is still my view that peace without justice is unsustainable and development without freedoms will risk leaving people behind. RFA: What would be your call for the government of Cambodia to do now, based on what you feel are the priorities during this visit? Smith: Thats a difficult question to answer. I think there are a number of areas which the government is working towards in basic human rights, and there are a number of areas that I have identified and discussed with the government to vet human rights and also to increase in hand the number of indicators and targets and plans for meeting the development goals. If they work on pursuing the development goals, that will help embed human rights principles and provide targets and indicators that could be ambitious for the government to work towards and, in doing so, that would strengthen human rights for everyone. Reported by RFAs Khmer Service. A university in the eastern Chinese province of Shandong has fired a lecturer and human rights lawyer after he "repeatedly published inappropriate comments" in the media, RFA has learned. Rights lawyer Liu Shuqing, who also works at a public interest law firm, was told to stop teaching classes at the Shandong Qilu University of Technology last year. The university issued a statement accusing Liu of "violating teaching standards of practice" and being a "bad influence." Liu, who was hired to teach by the college's school of chemical engineering, said he had also been rated "unqualified" in a recent staff assessment, although he was the only one in his faculty to fail his assessment. The school will now go through a disciplinary process based on two posts he made on the internet, about a government grading system for lawyers and the abuse of official power. But he said he had never discussed his opinions while teaching, and that there was nothing illegal in either post. "I told them that teaching is only one of my professions, but that my identity is as a citizen, and that citizens have the right to freedom of speech," Liu told RFA. "Both of these posts are still on WeChat, and haven't been blocked or deleted," he said. "I am very disappointed that the school has punished me anyway." Not yet fired Liu has already been ordered to stop teaching, but hasn't been formally fired. Instead, he has been demoted to the status of teaching assistant. His contract states that the university can fire him if he fails two consecutive annual assessments, however. "I have been teaching for more than 10 years," Liu told RFA. "I think I am a very competent teacher. I am qualified ... It is very unfair." He said he would see whether or not the school would accept an offer of arbitration, as hinted at in their letter informing him of the decision. An employee who answered the phone at the university's personnel department declined to comment. "I don't know this teacher, and I'm not familiar with the case," the employee said. "You should call the propaganda department." Growing censorship Academics say the ruling Chinese Communist Party is stepping up its censorship of academics in an unconstitutional bid to silence even the mildest criticism. Former Guizhou University professor Yang Shaozheng, who was fired outright after he made comments critical of the Communist Party in an online article, said self-censorship in colleges and universities is a growing problem on Chinese campuses. "What it means is that no one in this society is willing to insist on justice and the rule of law," Yang said. "They are forcing teachers and other members of society to stay silent about whatever they think is problematic." "If you go on like this for a long time, this country will lose its sense of right and wrong." Liu has previously represented Beijing rights lawyer Wang Yu, who was the first of hundreds to be detained and sanctioned in a nationwide crackdown launched in July 2015. He has also counted New Citizens' Movement found Xu Zhiyong, Harbin petitioner Xu Chunhe, and many other rights activists among his clients. 'Political training' Earlier this week, China's education ministry launched a new wave of political training for colleges and universities that aims to instill the ideology of President Xi Jinping and late supreme leader Mao Zedong in staff and students alike. The Ministry of Education released on Monday a five-year training plan for teachers via a series of "political theory" courses in colleges and universities. According to the ministry, "it is necessary to train dozens of ideological and political scholars with extensive influence ... as well as hundreds of leaders in ideological and political education." Under the plan, thousands of teachers and professors will study the classics of Marxism alongside the Thought of Xi Jinping, Mao Zedong, and late supreme leader Deng Xiaoping. The results of their theoretical research should then be integrated into their teaching materials, the ministry said. All colleges and universities will be required to send at least two qualified teachers to participate in the program, achieving full coverage of all Chinese tertiary institutions within five years, it said. Reported by Gao Feng for RFA's Mandarin Service, and by Wen Yuqing for the Cantonese Service. Translated and edited by Luisetta Mudie. Opposition lawmakers were removed from Hong Kong's legislature on Thursday after they called chief executive Carrie Lam a liar and took issue with her defense of proposed amendments to an extradition law that will allow the rendition of suspects to mainland China. Pro-democracy lawmaker Claudia Mo was forcibly removed from the Legislative Council (LegCo) chamber, holding high a placard opposing planned changes to the city's extradition law that would allow the rendition of suspects to mainland China, at Beijing's request. Mo had earlier shouted You are lying! at Lam, after she claimed that there had been no concerns about human rights protections for extradited suspects during the pre-1997 British colonial administration of Hong Kong, and that opponents of rendition to mainland China had "misunderstood." LegCo president Andrew Leung called on Mo to retract her accusation. "I most certainly will not!" Mo retorted. "If you won't retract, you will have to leave the chamber," Leung said. Meanwhile, Civic Party lawmaker Alvin Yeung demanded to know why Lam had ignored repeated expressions of concern from the international community over the planned amendments. "I would really like to get a clear answer from the chief executive," Yeung said. "If she is that concerned about Hong Kong's international status, why does she ignore the voices of the international community?" "Even if she ignores the international community, can she also ignore the voices of her traditional allies?" he said, citing opposition to the move voiced by the business community. 'Adverse impact' Hong Kong's International Chamber of Commerce recently wrote to LegCo members hitting out at Lam's administration for failing to engage in meaningful consultation on the proposed changes to the Fugitive Offenders Ordinance, according to copies of the letter posted by Claudia Mo to her Twitter account. "The administration has only allowed a short period of limited consultation for an issue which practically affects working and living in Hong Kong," the letter said. "This is most unbecoming in terms of public governance." "The crux of the matter ... is the adverse impact on Hong Kong as a place to live and work, and to continue growing as a major international business center attracting overseas investment," the letter said. "We are disappointed at such sudden notice." Yeung also took aim at Lam's claim that opponents of the amendments had merely misunderstood them. "Is it really the case that the entire world has misunderstood Carrie Lam?" he said. "That only this bunch of officials have it right?" Six other pro-democracy lawmakers were ordered out during the turbulent 90-minute session, during which Lam accused them of talking "nonsense." Democratic Party chairman Wu Chi-wai accused Lam of back-pedaling on promises of autonomy made to Hong Kong ahead of the 1997 handover, under the "one country, two systems" framework. "You have done more damage to Hong Kong than [former chief executive and shipping magnate] Tung Chee-hwa, and [former chief executive] Leung Chun-ying," Wu said. "How many people will have to take to the streets before you give up and withdraw this law on renditions?" Wu later yelled a profanity at Lam as he was manhandled from the chamber by security guards. 'Extreme speech, unnecessary fear' Lam said that fears around the proposed amendments to the Fugitive Offenders Ordinance, currently before LegCo, were the result of "extreme speech and unnecessary fear." It was not what was said, that there were fears over the mainlands legal system after the handover, or that China had agreed to it, Lam said. This is all nonsense. However, declassified U.K. Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) files published online by the research group Decoding Hong Kong's History showed that officials were keen to avoid an extradition agreement with mainland China ahead of the 1997 handover amid concerns about the country's legal system, including the likely treatment of suspects and the lack of access to a fair trial. U.K. law, which applied at the time, states that extradition requests should be turned down in the absence of minimum guarantees and protections accorded to suspects. "If you look back at the declassified files, Britain set up an extradition agreement for Hong Kong in 1992, stressing that the government was primarily considering the human rights situation of the countries concerned," Decoding Hong Kong's History said via Medium. "The FCO also stressed that even if Hong Kong is returning to China, the relevant human rights standards are still applicable for 50 years [after the handover], and that these standards must be kept," it said. It said Australia signed an extradition treaty with China, but that the ratification process has stalled over concerns that there are no guarantees for the human rights of suspects. U.S. concerns In Washington, the U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission said in a report on Tuesday that the proposed amendments could further erode the city's promised autonomy, and pose a security risk for U.S. citizens and companies. The planned changes to the city's Fugitive Offenders Ordinance will, if passed, allow the Hong Kong government to respond to case-by-case requests for extradition, in the absence of a bilateral treaty with the requesting jurisdiction. The most likely jurisdiction to use the proposed provision is the ruling Chinese Communist Party, which currently has no extradition treaty with Hong Kong. "A Hong Kong government extradition bill wouldif passed into lawincrease the territorys susceptibility to Beijings political coercion and further erode Hong Kongs autonomy," the report said. "The bill would remove independent legislative oversight in the extradition process," it said. "Such changes would undermine the strong legal protections guaranteed in Hong Kong and leave the territory exposed to Beijings weak legal system and politically motivated charges." Reported by Tam Siu-yin for RFA's Cantonese Service. Translated and edited by Luisetta Mudie. An officer at a penal labor facility in North Korea was killed last month by a former inmate in what is believed to be an act of retaliation for the officers harsh treatment of inmates at the work camp in Kaechon, South Pyongan province. Penal labor facilities exist all over North Korea. They are called labor training centers by the regime and are under the control of the Ministry of Justice and the police. Established in the 1990s to reform minor offenders through short-term labor, the training centers have no shortage of inmates. But sources say that inmates in the centers go hungry and must endure abuse from those in charge. A source from South Pyongan told RFAs Korean Service Monday that the Kaechon labor training center officer who was killed in April was in his 40s, and was attacked while returning home from work. While riding his motorcycle, he was hit in the head by a weapon wielded by a young man hiding in the street. He died immediately, the source said. The guy who killed him is a discharged soldier who had been imprisoned in the training center for a minor offense, said the source. The source said that the former soldier had resisted when he was assaulted by the officer while he was being held at the center. He was further punished for resisting. The young man experienced unjustified assault, so he planned to kill the officer in revenge after he was released, said the source. The sources said that this type of attack has happened several times before. There are about 10 officers at the training center in Kaechon. Even though this is not the first time a former prisoner carried out a revenge attack, they were shocked to hear that someone they worked with was killed by someone who had been an inmate, the source said. Police were quick to respond to the attack, immediately launching an investigation. But the case was quickly closed because the young discharged solider just turned himself in. In the aftermath of the incident though, there is a climate of fear within the ranks of judicial authorities and officials at the labor training centers, the source said. A second source, also from South Pyongan, noted that because the labor training centers were set up to punish minor offenders, it is quite common for people to serve a stint in one as North Koreas economic transition to a market economy is forcing them to find new streams of income, some of which run afoul of the law. People have a very hard time making a living these days, but the authorities can indiscriminately arrest people on charges of anti-socialism. Thats why labor camps, educational institutions and labor training centers are overflowing with prisoners, said the source. At present there are more than 200 inmates at the center in Kaechon, and they are there for illegal business activities, for being unemployed, or for having taken part in superstitious rituals, the source said. While fear of future attacks may haunt guards tasked with watching the inmates, among the inmates themselves the reaction has been jubilant. Rumors of the murder are spreading fast among prisoners and the officers are struggling to stop the rumors from spreading further. But when the prisoners heard the news, they responded that they are delighted by the fact there was a person like [Korean independence activist] Ahn Jung-geun among those released by the training center, said the source. Ahn has folk hero status in both North and South Korea. He is lionized for carrying out the assassination of Ito Hirobumi at Harbin station in October 1909. Ito was a four-time prime minister of Japan and had in June of that year finished serving as the first Resident-General of Korea, which had been a protectorate of Japan from 1905 until it was officially annexed as a colony of Tokyo in 1910. An was imprisoned and sentenced to death. Reported by Hyemin Son for RFAs Korean Service. Translated by Leejin Jun. Written in English by Eugene Whong. Security personnel shot dead four inmates and wounded at least two others during a prison riot in northwestern Myanmars Sagaing region that began on Wednesday, sparking unrest in at least a half dozen other jails across the country where prisoners live-streamed the protests and their demand that they be included in a recent presidential pardon, an inmate and officials said. Those who participated in the riot at Shwebo Prison issued four demands, including an extension of the presidential amnesty to those still incarcerated, and meetings inside the facility with journalists and members of the Myanmar Human Rights Council. President Win Myint pardoned more than 23,000 low-level offenders and two dozen political prisoners including detained Reuters journalists Wa Lone and Kyaw Soe Oo during three amnesties in April and May to mark the countrys Buddhist New Year. A Shwebo inmate who declined to be named said prison officials deployed more than 200 guards and police officers around 2 p.m. Thursday, who used tear gas grenades to disperse the rioters and ordered those not involved to return to their living quarters. The authorities spoke to the inmates through loudspeakers, he told RFAs Myanmar Service. They ordered inmates who were not part of the protest to go inside the residential building. Some of those who observed the riot recorded videos of the incident on their cell phones, then complied with the order to go back to their cells, the inmate said. [When] we took some videos of the scene and went back to our rooms, there were five or 10 rioters left downstairs, he said. They shot both those rioters and the inmates who went inside the building. There were more than 200 security forces from both the police force and the Prison Department. These 200 forces started shooting the inmates, he said. They also threw tear gas grenades into the inmates rooms. We were barely able to breath due to the smoke. They fired many gunshots. Bridger General Zaw Min Tun, a military spokesman, said a regiment of area soldiers stepped in to help prison authorities put down the riot. [M]ilitary forces from the Shwebo Regiment are taking care of Shwebo Prison security, he said. We are acting according to Articles 130 and 131 of the Criminal Procedure Code. The law permits military forces to provide security for illegal assemblies of crowds, so local authorities requested our help, he said. We are now providing security from outside the prison. Commander Lay Soe of the Sagaing Region Police said his officers are now providing security to the correctional facility and government authorities are addressing the protest. Situation under control Myint Naing, chief minister of Sagaing region, who visited the prison Thursday morning with the regional minister for security and border affairs, informed the media that the riot was now under control and authorities were reviewing the inmates demands. The situation is under control, he said. Because the prisoners resorted to violence, the prison suffered some damage. We took notes on their demands and told them that we would send them to the president, he said. Myint Naing said he had instructed prison guards to confiscate all mobile phones from prisoners, the online version of the Yangon-based news magazine Frontier Myanmar reported. In response to the riots, Win Myints office on Thursday issued a statement defending the decision to free some inmates but not others during the amnesties, saying that systematic evaluations of the prisoners were carried out in line with a selection policy. The release of prisoners [gave] priority to those with long-term sickness, the elderly, females, young people, and disabled persons, it said. The statement went on to say that in some prisons where riots occurred, inmates had broadcast live videos of the violence on social media via their mobile phones, leading officials to conclude that the incidents were connected to one another and were provoked. Authorities will investigate the protests to determine who or what caused them, it said. Yu Lwin Aung, a member of the Myanmar National Human Rights Commission, said that no one person likely had caused the prison riots. I dont think there is a mastermind behind the riots, he said. The riots occurred because of the anger of prisoners who were not released during amnesties, and it is normal. But Yu Lwin Aung agreed with officials that video clips of the protests should not have been posted to Facebook. Prisoners are not allowed to use cell phones, he said. They are not only using phones, but also using Facebook. This means that the administrative mechanism in the prisons is broken. A police vehicle sits at the entrance to Myitkyina Prison in northern Myanmar's Kachin state, May 9, 2019. Credit: RFA Domino effect The day after the presidents third prisoner amnesty on Tuesday, inmates at Sagaings Maw Lite Kalay Prison and Hpa-An Prison in Kayin state rioted on Wednesday, while some of those incarcerated in Tharyarwaddy Prison in Bago region, Myitkyina Prison in Kachin state, Pathein Prison in Ayeyarwady region, and Dawei Prison in Tanintharyi region staged protests on Thursday, the statement by the presidents office said. The Myitkyina Prison protest began around 5 a.m. with prisoners issuing the same four demands as those at Shwebo Prison, sources said. Police entered the jail six hours later while friends and families of the inmates who gathered outside called for them not to use violence against the protesters. Though authorities said around 2 p.m. that they had brought the situation under control and asked those outside to leave, an RFA reporter could still hear chanting and shouting by the protesters inside the prison for the next two and a half hours. More than 300 inmates from halls Nos. 1 and 2 at Pathein Prison started shouting demands around 11:30 a.m. Thursday, but the disturbance died down by noon, said Colonel Tun Shwe of the Ayeyarwady Region Police. The military-controlled Ministry of Home Affairs, which oversees the Myanmar Prisons Department, referred calls to that agency for comment, but RFA could not reach deputy director and spokesman Min Tun Soe. The department has yet to issue any statements about the prison riots. Myo Nyunt, spokesman for the ruling National League for Democracy (NLD) party, criticized inmates for causing the disturbances. I dont think prisoners should make the situation difficult when the president has granted amnesties with goodwill, he said. They have the right to submit their demands through the prison chief to top-level authorities in a step-by-step process. No prisoners will ever be released by causing riots. Its impossible. Reported by Khin Khin Ei, Aung Theinkha, and Elizabeth Jangma for RFAs Myanmar Service. Translated by Khet Mar and Ye Kaung Myint Maung. Written in English by Roseanne Gerin. Vietnamese authorities are blocking a defense attorney from meeting with his detained client, citing national security concerns in the case, the jailed mans lawyer told RFAs Vietnamese Service on Thursday. The move, made in conflict with Vietnams own laws, has raised additional concerns in the case of U.S. citizen Michael Nguyen, who was detained on the same day and has been held without trial for almost a year. Vietnamese law permits lawyers to meet with their clients even in sensitive cases once the investigation phase of the case has concluded, Nguyen Van Miengattorney for Huynh Duc Thanh Binh, detained on July 7, 2018told RFA, saying he had already filed several requests. I have sent via the post office my request to the chief of Ho Chi Minh Citys Prosecution Office, Mieng said, adding that the chief of that office is entitled to decide to let lawyers participate in a national security case as soon as the case investigation ends. No reply to his requests have been received, however, Mieng said. On March 3, police investigators announced their investigation had concluded, and that a charge of working to subvert state authority under Article 109 of the Vietnam Penal Code had been filed against Binh. Also speaking to RFA, Binhs mother Nguyen Thi Hue said that she had visited her son in detention in April. I saw that Binh was in good health, Hue said. We were allowed to meet for around 30 to 40 minutes, but could only talk about his health. No questions about his case were allowed, she said. Detained on or around the same day as Binh were his father Huynh Duc Thinh, Facebook users Tran Long Phi and Quoc Bao, and U.S. citizen Michael Phuong Nguyen, who disappeared while visiting friends and relatives in Vietnam. On July 31, the U.S. consulate in Ho Chi Minh City confirmed Nguyen had been taken into custody and was being held at a detention center in the city while under investigation for offenses under Article 109. Nguyen has been held without trial and without contact with lawyers or his family ever since. Recent efforts by RFA to reach Nguyens family have been unsuccessful. Reported by RFAs Vietnamese Service. Translated by Viet Ha. Written in English by Richard Finney. MOSCOW -- Russia on May 9 commemorated the 74th anniversary of the Allied victory over Nazi Germany in World War II with a military parade on Moscow's Red Square and celebrations in every town and city from Kaliningrad to Vladivostok. President Vladimir Putin, Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev, and former Kazakh President Nursultan Nazarbaev attended the parade held in the capital in the morning, before crowds of people descended on the city for the annual Immortal Regiment march to commemorate the 27 million Soviet civilians estimated to have died in the war. In his speech before troops and dignitaries on Red Square, Putin said "the main liberator of Europe" from Nazi Germany was the Soviet Union and called the Ukrainian capital, Kyiv, "an ancient Russian capital." Critics say his government has increasingly sought in recent years to nationalize the victory over Nazi Germany. "The victory was earned by the bravery of those who participated in defending ancient Russian capitals -- Kyiv and the Great Novgorod, by the courage of the defenders of Smolensk, Odesa [a Ukrainian Black Sea port city], Sevastopol [a city in Ukraines Crimea annexed by Moscow in 2014], and the unlimited stamina of the residents of the blockaded Leningrad," Putin said. The Russian president also laid a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier near the Kremlin. Moscow managed to defy dismal weather forecasts by deploying cloud-seeding technology to disperse cloud cover in the hours preceding the morning parade. Temperatures in the early afternoon rose to a humid 25 degrees Celsius as hundreds of thousands of people descended on the central Tverskaya Street, clutching portraits of dead relatives who had fought in the war. The annual Immortal Regiment march is held in every major Russian town and dozens of foreign cities where Russian-speaking communities live and attracts millions of participants each year. Critics say the Kremlin has hijacked it since its inception in 2012 as a grassroots movement to honor the dead. They also cite the annual military parades across Russia as a show of strength by Putin's government and argue that the Kremlin uses the celebrations to stoke patriotism but pays little attention to the needs of aging World War II veterans. Russia's Defense Ministry said earlier that 13,000 troops and 130 pieces of advanced military hardware took part in the parade, which was broadcast nationally on state-run television. According to the ministry, representatives from all of Russia's armed forces and the National Guard participated. However, the Kremlin's flight control center said combat aircraft did not take part in the parade because weather conditions were unfavorable. Nazarbaev's presence alongside Putin came as a surprise. Putin's spokesman, Dmitry Peskov, had said earlier that no foreign leader would attend the event. Although Nazarbaev resigned as Kazakhstan's president on March 19, he retains the title "Leader of the Nation." Putin and other Russian officials wore the ribbon of St. George, a centuries-old military symbol that decorated postcards and posters in the Soviet Union and was revived in 2005 as a physical prop representing victory in World War II. In recent years, the ribbon has come to be seen in some former Soviet republics as a symbol of Russian nationalism, not least in light of its widespread use by the pro-Russian separatists who have occupied swathes of territory in eastern Ukraine since 2014. Since 2017, the ribbon of St. George has been officially banned in Ukraine as a symbol of "Russian aggression." Rather than the ribbon of St. George, Nazarbaev wore a blue ribbon representing Kazakhstan's national flag. Russia's land forces commander, Army General Oleg Salyukov, opened the parade and reported to Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu, who then led the event. Victory Day celebrations were also being held in several other former Soviet republics. But feelings of unity with Moscow inspired by memory of a common enemy during the war are fading -- and many of Russia's neighbors are wary of its perceived appetite of expansion following its military intervention against Ukraine. The way the end of the war is commemorated in other former Soviet republics now differs from country to country. A European Council watchdog committee has accused German police of mistreating an Afghan man being deported back to his homeland by squeezing his genitals. "To ill-treat a person by squeezing the genitals, a technique which is clearly aimed at inflicting severe pain to gain compliance, is both excessive and inappropriate," the European Committee for the Prevention of Torture (CPT) said in a report released on May 9. The committee said it had observed on a 2018 flight that a German federal police officer used the method on an Afghan man who was resisting being returned, while another officer held him with an arm around his neck so "the returnee started struggling to breathe." The committee recommended "immediate action to end the application of these two techniques." Berlin said it had sent the recommendation to federal police to take action. The August 14, 2018 charter flight carried 46 Afghans from Munich to Kabul after their asylum requests had been denied. CPT representatives were also on the flight, along with German police officers. Based on reporting by AP and AFP Japanese Foreign Minister Taro Kono is heading to Russia for a new round of talks on a decades-old territorial dispute that has prevented Moscow and Tokyo from signing a peace agreement and formally end World War II. Kono is set to arrive in Moscow on May 9 and meet with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov the next day for talks on the dispute over the four southernmost islands in the Kuriles chain, which runs from Hokkaido in Japan to Russia's Kamchatka Peninsula. Soviet troops seized the islands between the Sea of Okhotsk and the Pacific Ocean during the final days of World War II. Tokyo's refusal to recognize Moscow's sovereignty there is an issue that has stalled the peace process since the 1950s. The islands are known in Russia as the Southern Kuriles and in Japan as the Northern Territories. Russian and Japanese officials have said they were determined to try to find a solution to the dispute between their countries but offered few specifics on whether the sides were close to reaching an agreement. In January, Russian President Vladimir Putin said that "painstaking work" remains before Moscow can conclude a peace treaty with Tokyo, adding that a settlement that negotiators would propose must be "supported" by the public. Putin made the comments following talks with Prime Minister Shinzo Abe at the Kremlin. Based on reporting by Interfax and TASS The URL has been copied to your clipboard The code has been copied to your clipboard. Activists were arrested in Almaty, Kazakhstan, amid ongoing protests against presidential elections planned for June 9. Activists say the elections will not be fair. The latest protests came alongside events marking Victory Day. ChowNow, a Los Angeles, CA-based online ordering platform for local, independent restaurants, closed a $21M Series C funding round. Backers included 3L Capital and Catalyst Investors. With this latest round, 3L Capital co-founder and managing director Shawn Colo joins the ChowNow Board of Directors. The company, which has raised a total of $60, including previous rounds from Steadfast Capital, Upfront Ventures, and Bonfire Ventures, intends to use the funds to continue to expand operations and its business reach. Led by Chris Webb, co-founder and CEO, ChowNow powers branded online ordering systems for 11,000+ independent restaurants across the US and Canada via restaurants own websites, on Facebook and Google, through apps, and via its website while also providing their restaurant partners key customer insights and marketing support. The company, which allows diners to connect with independent restaurants in their communities to order takeout (and in some cases delivery), has also launched a new website, OrderBetter.com, aimed at educating consumers about the predatory tactics and dirty little secrets of delivery-app businesses. FinSMEs 09/05/2019 French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Angela Merkel have cautioned against an escalation in the dispute over Irans nuclear deal after Tehran said it would stop abiding by parts of the deal and U.S. President Donald Trump said he was open to talks with Iranian leaders. Tehran on May 8 said it had stopped observing limits on its nuclear activities agreed under the 2015 deal until they find a way to bypass renewed U.S. sanctions. The same day, the U.S. envoy for Iran, Brian Hook, accused Tehran of resorting to "nuclear blackmail." Macron, speaking in Romania ahead of an EU summit on May 9, told reporters that "Iran must remain in this agreement, and we must do everything we can to ensure that it stays in." He urged the agreement's signatories not to "get caught up in any escalation" and to "jointly watch over our collective security." For her part, Merkel said the EU wants to avoid an escalation, adding that Tehran must recognize that it is in its own interests to remain committed to the nuclear deal. "Our hand remains outstretched at this point; we want to continue to push for a diplomatic solution," Merkel said after the EU meeting. Trump did not address Irans latest move. But he told reporters at the White House that he wants the Iranian leadership to contact him. "What I would like to see with Iran, I would like to see them call me," Trump said. Amid rising tensions between the two countries, Trump said Washington was not looking for a conflict with Tehran. "I want them to be strong and great, to have a great economy," Trump said, adding that "we can make a fair deal." Macron said the landmark 2015 deal curbing Iran's nuclear ambitions is "a good agreement" but added that it should be completed with other pacts governing Iran's missile development and its potentially destabilizing role in the Middle East. His statement came shortly after the European Union and three European powers issued a joint declaration urging Iran to respect the deal. The EU's foreign policy chief, Federica Mogherini, and the foreign ministers of Britain, France, and Germany said they still backed the accord but rejected "ultimatums" from Tehran to keep it alive. "We reject any ultimatums and we will assess Iran's compliance on the basis of Iran's performance regarding its nuclear-related commitments" under the agreement, the European statement said. Iran has said its move was in response to the sweeping unilateral sanctions that Washington has reimposed since it quit the agreement one year ago. The reimposing of sanctions has dealt a severe blow to Iran's economy. The EU powers say they "regret the reimposition of sanctions" by the U.S. and remain "determined to continue pursuing efforts to enable the continuation of legitimate trade with Iran." They were "determined to continue pursuing efforts to enable the continuation of legitimate trade with Iran" in an effort to keep the deal afloat, the statement added. But it said that Iran must at the same time "implement its commitments under the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPoA) in full as it has done until now and to refrain from any escalatory steps." With reporting by Rikard Jozwiak, AFP, AP, Reuters, and dpa Unknown vandals on May 9 desecrated a memorial outside the city of Sevastopol in Ukraine's Crimea region to Crimean Tatars who died during World War II. The Crimean Tatar community on May 9 published photographs of the monument, which consisted of two black marble tablets inscribed with the names of 64 local people including 57 Crimean Tatars who died during the war. The memorial was erected just three days earlier in the village of Orlovka by the Crimean Tatar community. Ukraine's Black Sea region of Crimea was annexed by Russia in 2014. Since then, the Crimean Tatar community has been subjected to repression by the de facto authorities for its opposition to the annexation. In May 1944, Soviet dictator Josef Stalin ordered the mass deportation of the entire Crimean Tatar community from the region, baselessly accusing it of collaboration with the Nazis. Tens of thousands of them died during the operation and the first severe months in Kazakhstan and other remote parts of the Soviet Union. They were only allowed to begin returning to Crimea in the late 1980s under Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachov. The de facto authorities in Crimea have not reacted to desecration of the Orlovka monument. MOSCOW -- A member of the Russian feminist protest group Pussy Riot says a close friend of a detained group member has been taken to custody by Russia police without explanation along with her boyfriend. Pyotr Verzilov said in a Twitter post that police in Moscow detained Aleksandra Albova and her boyfriend on May 9. The post did not name Albova's boyfriend. Their detentions come a day after Pussy Riot member Veronika Nikulshina was detained in Moscow together with four other friends of hers who reportedly are not members of the protest group. Police explained those detentions by saying it was necessary to question them about damage to an unspecified state property. All five remained in custody on May 9. "Sasha [Albova] has never had anything to do with [Pussy Riot's] actions, politics, or the theater," Verzilov wrote on May 9. "She is just a close friend of Nika [Veronika Nikulshina]." A court in Sweden on April 30 granted political asylum to two other members of Pussy Riot, Lusine Djanyan and Aleksei Knedlyakovsky, and their two children. In the ruling, the Swedish court accepted the claim of Djanyan and Knedlyakovsky that they face "harassment and death threats" in Russia. Russian journalist Sergei Dorenko has died in Moscow, Russian media reported. According to some reports, Dorenko lost consciousness as he was riding a motorcycle in the center of the capital. TASS reported that he suffered a heart attack. Earlier reports said he had been involved in a collision. Dorenko, 59, was a prominent journalist in the 1990s and early 2000s. His weekly news program was canceled in 2000 shortly after it broadcast harsh criticism of the government's handling of the sinking of the Kursk nuclear submarine. He did not work on Russian television again after that, but in recent years he had worked as editor in chief of the Govorit Moskva radio station. He made headlines in 2007 when he released an interview that he had conducted in April 1998 with FSB officer Aleksandr Litvinenko and other FSB officers in which they confessed that they had been ordered to kill, kidnap, or blackmail prominent politicians and businesspeople. Litvinenko died in London in 2006 of acute radiation poisoning. British investigators established that he was poisoned with polonium 210 by Andrei Lugovoi, an officer of Russia's Federal Protection Service. Lugovoi and the Russian government denied involvement in Litvinenko's killing. With reporting by TASS and RIA Novosti TBILISI -- Celebrations marking the 74th anniversary of the Allied victory over Nazi Germany were marred in Georgia on May 9 by shouting matches between rival demonstrators and the booing of President Salome Zurabishvili during a memorial ceremony. Zurabishvili was heckled and verbally harassed by anti-Russia demonstrators who chanted "Traitor!" as she laid flowers at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Tbilisi's Vake Park on May 9. After she was heckled, Zurabishvili said: "All the heroes who died in that war deserve respect. All Georgians believed that they fought for freedom and the independence of their country. They all died for Georgia's independence, and I want to honor their memories." Two rallies, one by pro-Russia organizations and another by an anti-Kremlin movement called Russia Is An Occupier, were held simultaneously at Vake Park on May 9 -- starting before the Georgian president's arrival there and continuing until after her departure. The demonstrators were separated from each other by police, leading them to shout insults at each other from across the police cordons. Pro-Russia demonstrators carried red flags and other Soviet symbols. They demanded neutrality for Georgia and the restoration of relations with Russia. Their challengers were holding Georgian national flags, anti-Russia posters, and portraits of Giorgi Antsukhelidze, a Georgian soldier who was killed in Georgias breakaway region of South Ossetia during the August 2008 five-day Russia-Georgia war, after which Russia recognized the independence of South Ossetia and another breakaway Georgian region, Abkhazia. Moscow has kept troops in both regions since then, over Tbilisi's objections. The Georgian Interior Ministry said that five demonstrators were briefly detained. They were charged with minor hooliganism and disobeying the police and ordered not to leave the city before being released. One of the detainees was a demonstrator who wore Soviet symbols, while four others were anti-Russia protesters. The ministry said that one other person was warned not to openly carry Soviet symbols, which is illegal in Georgia. The United States has tightened the screws further on Iran with sanctions on its metal industry on the day Tehran said it was suspending some of its commitments under the 2015 nuclear deal with world powers. The White House said that the new sanctions, announced on May 8, target Iran's steel, aluminum, copper and iron sectors -- all key sources of revenue for the country. Hours earlier, Iran said that it will no longer sell its surplus enriched uranium and heavy water to other nations as stipulated in the nuclear agreement between Tehran and six world powers. It also threatened to enrich its uranium stockpile closer to weapons-grade levels in 60 days if world powers fail to negotiate new terms. The moves came on the anniversary of U.S. President Donald Trump's decision to withdraw the United States from the 2015 accord, which aimed at curbing Iran's nuclear program in return for relief from sanctions. Britain, France, and Germany -- the Western European parties to the nuclear pact -- criticized Iran's "unwelcome" step and warned Iran not to abandon the deal. Russia, another signatory to the agreement, said Washington was to blame for Iran's decision. In a statement, Trump said that the new sanctions target "Iran's revenue from the export of industrial metals -- 10 percent of its export economy -- and puts other nations on notice that allowing Iranian steel and other metals into your ports will no longer be tolerated." Washington has already moved to restrict Iran's oil exports, the country's largest source of hard currency. "Tehran can expect further actions unless it fundamentally alters its conduct," Trump said, adding that he was open to talks. "I look forward to some day meeting with the leaders of Iran in order to work out an agreement and, very importantly, taking steps to give Iran the future it deserves," the U.S. president said. In an address to the nation earlier on May 8, Iranian President Hassan Rohani said that Iran will begin to build up its stockpiles of low-enriched uranium and of heavy water, which is used in nuclear reactors, including a reactor that could produce weapons-grade plutonium. In 60 days, Iran will increase its enrichment of uranium beyond 3.67 percent, which is permitted by the accord, if the remaining signatories of the 2015 accord -- Britain, France, Germany, Russia, and China -- fail to protect Iran's oil and banking industries from U.S. sanctions. But the Iranian president also said that his country still supported the nuclear agreement, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA). "The Iranian people and the world should know that today is not the end of the JCPOA," Rohani said. "These are actions in line with the JCPOA." During a visit to London, U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said that Washington will wait to see if Tehran follows through on its threats before deciding its next move. World Leaders Respond Speaking alongside Pompeo, British Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt said that Iran's threat to resume higher enrichment of uranium is an "unwelcome step" and he urged Iran "not to take further escalatory steps" and to "stand by its commitments." German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas expressed "great concern" at Iran's threat and said that "all steps must be avoided that could endanger regional stability and security." French Defense Minister Florence Parly said that the question of sanctions "will be raised" if the nuclear deal isn't respected, adding that Europeans absolutely want to keep this agreement alive." Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said that the United States "is to blame for the situation and it makes it difficult for both Iran to fulfill its obligations." He also accused Western signatories to the deal of trying to "divert attention" from their inability to fulfill their obligations. Chinas Foreign Ministry said that Beijing "resolutely opposes" unilateral U.S. sanctions against Iran and called for strengthened dialogue. In Washington, the special assistant to the U.S. president and senior director for weapons of mass destruction, Tim Morrison, said Irans announcement was "nothing less than nuclear blackmail of Europe." Tensions between Tehran and Washington have escalated since Trump announced the U.S. pullout, arguing it was flawed because it did not include curbs on Irans development of ballistic missiles or Tehrans support for proxies in the Middle East. Washington also reinstated sweeping sanctions that have badly hit the Iranian economy. Despite the U.S. moves, Tehran has continued to comply with the terms of the deal, according to the United Nations' International Atomic Energy Agency. European backers of the deal have been trying to salvage the agreement, but Tehran has complained that the process was too slow. The United States has recently said there had been threats to its forces and the countrys allies from Iran. A U.S. aircraft carrier battle group is heading to the waters near Iran, and Pompeo on May 7 paid an unannounced visit to Baghdad, where he met with Iraqi officials to discuss U.S. security concerns amid what he called escalating Iranian activity. With reporting by AFP, AP, Reuters, and the BBC Coalition, a San Francisco, CA-based cyber insurance company for small and midsize businesses, closed a $40m funding round. The round was led by Ribbit Capital with participation from Greenoaks Capital and Hillhouse Capital. The company intends to use the funds to triple engineering and incident response team over the next year and to scale its global platform. Co-founded by Joshua Motta and John Hering, joined by recently appointed Head of Engineering Leon Rishniw, Coalition provides a cyber risk solution that combines comprehensive insurance and cybersecurity tools to allow businesses manage and mitigate cyber risk. Backed by insurers Swiss Re Corporate Solutions and Argo Group, the company provides companies with up to $10 million of cyber and technology insurance coverage in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Its cyber risk management platform provides automated security alerts, threat intelligence, expert guidance, and cybersecurity tools to allow businesses to protect from the entire spectrum of cyber risk, including coverage for network breaches, systems failures, ransomware, business interruption, funds transfer fraud, privacy liability, regulatory fines and penalties, property damage, and more. Customers include technology companies, investment firms, retailers, banks, manufacturers, non-profits, and healthcare providers. FinSMEs 09/05/2019 The second location for OTooles Restaurant & Pub - the restaurant at 4800 Forest Hill Ave. in South Richmond - is back on. Owner John O'Toole announced the second location for the restaurant in 2017, just after the flagship spot celebrated its 50th anniversary. At the time, they hadn't nailed down a location. Last year, the restaurant announced it has secured a space in the Charter Colony Shopping Center at 13911 Midlothian Turnpike, though the restaurant was later put on hold. But now O'Toole's two is sailing forward. "We will be done building on July 15," he said. "We would like to open before Aug. 1." The second location will have the same menu and vibe as the original, right down to the legendary St. Patrick's Day festivities. This is the second time the Irish restaurant has branched into Chesterfield County. O'Toole's Too was open at 10016 Robious Road in the Robious Hall Shopping Center from 1990 to 1993. O'Toole's was named one of the "The 25 most popular Irish pubs in America, according to Foursquare" in Business Insider in 2017. A Guatemalan national convicted in Chesterfield County in March 2014 of a felony charge of driving while intoxicated pleaded guilty Thursday to illegal re-entry into the U.S. following a felony conviction. Court records show that Esau Juarez-Garcia, 42, was deported in April 2014, but was caught in Chesterfield County in February after illegally returning to the U.S. In another recent project, she said students used a green screen to make a video reimagining a story they had just read from the perspective of another character. My jobs fun, Lambert said in an interview last week. I get to work with everybody doing everything all the time. I never know what tomorrow is going to bring. Lambert said her oldest brother, who is diagnosed with Down syndrome, inspired her to become an educator. I grew up learning with him and learning from him, she said. She later switched the focus of her teaching after helping develop the technology curriculum at another school district she worked for several years ago. What inspires me is the fact that I have teachers dying to learn something new and take a risk, Lambert said. I get to go with the kids and see their excitement. Theres nothing better than seeing those light bulbs go off and their creativity. Liberty Middle School Principal Donald Latham said Lambert exudes a sense of passion thats contagious. She has an ability to inspire and lift teachers and students to try new things in the ever-changing world of technology, he said. From December 19th through December 26th we will be granting free access as a gift to our readers presented by LifePoint Church RVA CHARLOTTESVILLE A North Carolina man will hold a 17-hour vigil in front of Charlottesvilles statue of Confederate Gen. Robert E. Lee on Thursday while dressed as a Union soldier in an effort to educate others about the Civil War. William Thorpe, the sole orchestrator of the One-Man Stand and founder and director of the University of North Carolina Walk for Health, will finish out a semester-long project inspired by the universitys removal of its Silent Sam monument in Chapel Hill. The statue, erected in 1913, was toppled by protesters in August and then moved by university officials to an undisclosed location. The pedestal was later removed, and the ground where the statue stood was covered with grass. Thorpe said he began his campaign on Jan. 24 as an effort to educate the public on what Union soldiers fought for during the Civil War and to advocate for the placement of a statue of a Union soldier in place of Silent Sam. The Union soldier is not getting enough awareness, and I wanted to lobby UNC officials for a replacement statue, he said. Logically, the best replacement would be a Union soldier. LetsGetChecked, a NYC-based direct-to-consumer at-home health testing platform increasing access to laboratory and self-testing, closed a $30m Series B funding round. The round was led by LTP, a Boston-based growth equity investment firm focused on healthcare IT, with participation from existing investors Optum Ventures and Qiming Venture Partners USA. The company intends to use the funds to to continue scaling its consumer brand in diagnostics, as it currently serves the entire U.S., Canada and Europe, to accelerate development of the core technology platform and expandd manufacturing and logistical capabilities throughout North America. Led by Peter Foley, CEO and founder, LetsGetChecked provides a direct-to-consumer at-home health testing platform that increases access to laboratory and self-testing. Users can order in-state physician-approved laboratory tests via LetsGetChecked.com or through partner retailers, including CVS, Walmart, Pharmaca, and McKesson online stores. Anonymized tests are then shipped from the companys ISO accredited facility by next day delivery and individuals can complete and return the samples for rapid processing within as little as two days. Tests are performed by CLIA-certified reference labs. Throughout the process, patients are connected with in-state board-certified physicians to discuss any abnormal results and determine the best course of action for treatment and care. Patients also receive a nurse call to discuss the results live, which can be accompanied by an e-prescription at no additional cost to the pharmacy of their choice. LetsGetCheckeds portfolio of testing procedures currently includes wellness testing (cholesterol, thyroid, etc.), cancer screening, sexual health testing, fertility testing, genetic testing, and pharmacogenomic testing among others. Partnered with connected health devices such as Apple Health, Fitbit and Garmin, LetsGetChecked provides customers access to a range of health data via its dedicated health dashboard. By combining lab results with real-time wearable data, users can receive risk assessments and scores such as their cardiovascular health and others to determine the probability of developing a heart attack within a given timeframe. The company has integrated with large reference labs and health systems, and is building partnerships with a growing number of healthcare insurers for personalized screening and home testing procedures. For shipping and handling, LetsGetChecked has logistics partnerships with UPS, USPS and FedEx. FinSMEs 09/05/2019 There are people who do not matter much. Thats a painful truth, starkly at odds with our Jeffersonian creed and national mythology. But it is a truth, nevertheless, one frequently proven in actions if denied in words. In this country, by dint of race, gender, class or status, some people just dont seem to matter. Apparently, Tammy Jackson is one of them. No other conclusion is possible after reading the May 3 letter her public defender, Howard Finkelstein, sent to Broward County, Fla., Sheriff Gregory Tony. In it, he decries the outrageous and inhumane treatment accorded his client in a Broward lockup. And if anything, the lawyer is guilty of understatement. He says Jackson, who has mental illness, went into labor before dawn on April 10 while alone in an isolation cell. He says she cried out for help, but guards did not come to see about her, much less take her to the hospital. Instead, they phoned the jails on-call doctor. It took four hours to reach him and even then, he showed no particular urgency, saying he would check on Jackson when he got to work. ROANOKE The Hurricane Hunters are used to dealing with lashing rain and turbulent clouds during their long missions through monster storms. On Wednesday, the weather was considerably more peaceful when storm-chasing aircraft from the U.S. Air Force Reserve and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration made their first-ever visit to the Roanoke Valley. At least 1,000 people lined up at Roanoke-Blacksburg Regional Airport to climb aboard the aircraft and ask the crews what its like to get to the eye of the storm. Two reconnaissance aircraft, parked side by side on a far corner of the tarmac, drew a steady line of students, members of the media, dignitaries and other visitors throughout the day. NOAAs shiny white-and-blue WP-3D Orion and the Air Forces slate-gray WC-130J have similar functions and an identical mission: to make hurricane forecasts as accurate as possible. What the cabins lack in comforts, they make up for with banks of wires, display screens and buttons, and a chute that fires instrument-filled probes down into the heart of each storm. Rocean, a New York City-based provider of a smart water countertop device, raised over $6m in financing. The round was led by Blue, a global investment firm focused on sustainable solutions, with participation from John Legend; Black Coffee; Reshma Saujani; Phil Molyneux; Peter Carlsson; and Rohan Oza. The company intends to use the funds to continue to develop its first product. Founded by serial entrepreneurs and concerned citizens Sunjay Guleria, Mohini Boparai Guleria, and Dr. Lee von Kraus, Rocean is the maker of the Rocean One, a personalizable, reusable water ecosystem with filtration that also carbonates, flavors and enhances tap water. The companys multi-use pods give users a selection of natural fruit flavors, supplements, and enhancements at a lower cost and total carbon footprint of pre-packaged beverages. Their patent-pending micro-dosing system supports two pods at once, letting users mix their favorite flavors and enhancements to their personal preference. The first units of the the device will be shipping late summer 2019. FinSMEs 09/05/2019 Air France announces additional Cancun flights to meet demand Cancun, Q,R, Air France has announced an increase in the amount of seats they will offer starting December. The airline says that the increase is to meet French traveler demands. The Air France-KLM Group has announced a 30 percent increase in its seats into Cancun-Riviera Maya for the December high season by adding an additional two flights per week to their Paris-Cancun route. Guilhem Mallet, general director of the France-KLM group in Mexico says that topics such as insecurity and sargasso have not affected French tourism into the region, adding that for French travelers, it is not something they worry about when choosing a travel destination since there are places with greater problems in South America such as Brazil and Colombia. Mallet says that they are presently analyzing the possibility of increasing the number of flights during the low season which currently offers only three flights per week from the Charles de Gaulle airport in Paris. He explained that more than 50 percent of passengers who travel from Paris like to visit Riviera Maya, whose stay ranges from seven to 10 days. The new flights will begin mid-December and last until the end of February in 2020, with the possibility of reviewing the interest of travelers not only from France, but from all over Europe for longer stays. We currently have a 20 percent market share to connect Cancun with Europe, and with the increase in flights on the Cancun-Paris route for the winter season, the Air France-KLM Group confirms its commitment and strategy of growth in the region. Our direct flights to and from Cancun not only offer European passengers the opportunity to get to know one of the most beautiful regions of Mexico, it also allows Mexicans living in the southeast of the country the best way to travel to Europe, said Mallet during a Cancun press conference. He says more than 150,000 travelers took advantage of the Paris-Cancun flights last year, an 11 percent increase over the previous year, and a 12 percent increase already this year. New Riviera Maya water park set to compete with Xcaret Riviera Maya, Q.R. Grupo Vidanta has announced the construction of a water park that they say, will compete directly with the attractions of Xcaret. In a statement, the company says that in mid-June, they will open their Jungala Luxury Waterpark in Riviera Maya. While the park is aimed toward adults, there is a childrens area. Grupo Vindanta says that Jungala Luxury Waterpark will offer sophisticated attractions for the adventurous and feature family games such as Aqua Play Rain Fortress and an interactive platform they say is the largest in the world. Once open, the park will also offer visits a slow river that is more than a kilometer long, the only one of its kind in Latin America, and one of the few wave pools in the world with natural sand. Another attraction will include jungle tours between rocky walls, tall trees and water sprouting from natural pergolas and lost ruins where visitors can enjoy watching native birds and other animals. Photo: Grupo Vidanta On the side of luxury, the water park will offer VIP cabins with personal concierge throughout the park as well as gourmet dishes of various cuisine and spa treatments, among other amenities. The company adds that Jungala Luxury Waterpark is located in Vidanta Riviera Maya and will compete with Grupo Xcaret, offering next-generation attractions for both its guests and travelers in search of adventure. In March, Grupo Vidanta announced its foray into the shipping industry with Vidanta Cruises, the first Mexican line of luxury cruise ships. Playa del Carmen offenders clean public spaces to ensure security from criminals Playa del Carmen, Q.R. As part of a social and crime prevention program, Playa del Carmen criminal offenders spent several days cleaning residential areas to ensure safety and security for its residents. Escorted by guards, the offenders participated in the Rescue of Public Spaces program of la Direccion General de Seguridad Publica y Transito de Solidaridad, where they were sent out to cut weeds and generally clean public spaces. According to Participacion Ciudadana y Prevencion del Delito, administrative personnel of the corporation with support and participation of area residents, as well as criminal offenders of the Civic Courts, conducted the cleaning of weeds of parks and their surroundings with the goal of maintaining perimeter visibility for greater safety so citizens feel safe when using the recreational parks and its facilities. Photo: la Policia Municipal de Solidaridad The group, who were under the care of la Policia Municipal, spent several days cleaning Villas del Sol, el Peten, la Guadalupana as well as areas in Ejido and the Delegacion de Puerto Aventuras. Two shocked when metal joist contacts CFE wires Playa del Carmen, Q.R. Two men have suffered serious burns after receiving an electrical shock on the second floor of a Playa del Carmen home. The two men were working on the home when they lifted a metal joist that came into contact with the overhead electrical wires. The impact from connecting with the high-voltage wires threw both men down 2.5 meters to the next level. Civil Protection arrived at the home located on Juarez Avenue in central Playa del Carmen where the Heroico Cuerpo de Bomberos de Solidaridad also arrived after being called for a rescue. Civil Protection requested the cut to electricity while firemen rescued the two immobilized men from the second floor, transporting them to a waiting ambulance. Phto: Proteccion Civil One of the men received first and second degree burns on his body as well as injuries from the fall. Hes been listed in serious condition, while his coworker was shocked but received most of his injuries also from the fall. BLACKSBURG Lovable sandwich shack and college dive bar Sycamore Deli will close later this summer after about 30 years in business. Mike Weber, who has owned the business for the past 24 years, said it was more of a personal decision than financial. Theres more competition than there used to be, he says. Appetites have changed over the decades while Sycamore Delis menu stayed the same. But the biggest factor is that the owners heart just isnt in it anymore. Weber brings a take-me-as-I-am attitude that matches the decor inside his business. Theres nothing corporate about it, but rather the kind of off-kilter aesthetic that is the backdrop for so many college memories. He said he considered reinventing the business, maybe with avocado sandwiches or menus customers can hold in their hands instead of posted to the wall. The restaurant has been largely running itself for the past couple years and Weber said a major overhaul would require going back to work there. But right now Im not, and I dont want to, he said with the blunt honesty of a good bartender. Lets just say what it is. Thats not where my passion is right now. The business began as a vegetable stand in Lexington, Virginia, called Sycamore Farms in the early 1980s. Original owners Bruce and Betty Becker eventually added sandwiches to the offering and moved to Blacksburg, according to the restaurants website. Mike Weber bought the business in 1995 and changed the name to Sycamore Deli when he said it was a simple sandwich shop on Turner Street. Back then, it was known for fresh bread and cheap prices. Sycamore Delis former landlord sold their Turner Street building in 2011, and the sub shop relocated to its current location in a basement at the heart of downtown Blacksburg on Draper Road. The new space happened to have a stage, so Weber said the deli started booking bands and events. Thats also when it started staying open later and serving the college bar scene. Last month, Sycamore Deli hosted 10 concerts and special events, bringing in bands from Colorado, Texas and Georgia. Im telling you, were totally different than we used to be, Weber said. The band part is doing very well. Thats what I think people might miss the most. Weber admits that the storefront Sycamore Deli will leave this summer is a good one, and a hungrier business owner could probably see even more success there. His lease runs out July 1, so he plans to shut down sometime around the middle of June. Weber said he has informed all his employees so theyre not caught off guard. Ill be honest with you, its a young mans game, Weber said. There are some things that we do really good and people are going to miss us. There are some things that people are going to say, Eh. Who cares? Hospitals in Virginia are adding nearly 200 psychiatric beds to relieve some of the pressure of having more patients than rooms to treat them, but hospital leaders on Thursday said more must be done to keep people from needing inpatient care. The Virginia Hospital and Healthcare Association held a news conference in Richmond to discuss ways its members are addressing the increased demand for psychiatric care and to offer proposals that include having more outpatient services such as partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient treatment fully covered by Medicaid. State lawmakers who serve on a committee to reform mental health services have grappled with overcrowding in recent years at state psychiatric hospitals and have questioned whether the private sector is doing its share. The fact of the matter is both private hospitals and state hospitals are dealing with a surge in demand for inpatient psychiatric care, said Dr. Michael McDermott, chairman of the state hospital association board and CEO of Mary Washington Healthcare. To help put that in perspective, consider this: Last year, community hospitals in Virginia accommodated 29,278 voluntary admissions. Thats up from 25,526 admissions in 2015. That growth represents a 10.9% increase. Voluntary admissions involve people who agree to be admitted to the hospital. Involuntary admissions, those that arise when a temporary detention order is obtained to treat a person thought to be a danger to themself or others, are also increasing. Private hospitals accepted 20,220 TDO patients last year, and another 5,356 were admitted to state hospitals. In 2015, private hospitals treated 22,697 TDO patients, and the state hospitals, 2,192. The year 2015 is the first full year following the implementation of a statewide bed registry that was created in the wake of a family tragedy involving state Sen. Creigh Deeds, whose son attacked him and then killed himself hours after a community service board worker failed to find a psychiatric bed for him. The law requires state hospitals to serve as the bed of last resort, which has added pressure, but the increase in overall admissions is more complex. Some of it may be due to a better understanding that mental illness is a brain disorder and not a moral failing, said Carilion Clinic psychiatric chair Dr. Bob Trestman. The reduction in stigma is having a wonderful effect in allowing people to seek care, he said. We are being more open about the realities of life and the stressors we are all experiencing. It indeed is making it easier for people to seek care. During the last nine months, Carilion spent $2 million renovating three floors in its rehab building in Roanoke that houses a 16-bed unit for children and adolescents and two adult units, for a combined 35 beds. To undertake the project, Carilion had to empty one of the floors, temporarily cutting in half the number of adults it could treat. Then the project went floor-by-floor, moving patients to make the rooms safer and cleaner, update systems, deaden noise and create an environment that encourages nurses to interact more with patients. The project did not add additional capacity. Carilion is asking the state for permission to add 15 psychiatric beds. If approved, the unit could open as soon as August, Trestman said. LewisGale also expects in August to open a new facility it is building at its Pulaski hospital. The new 16-bed adult behavioral health unit will include addiction services and will enable LewisGale to offer comprehensive behavioral health services in Pulaski for the first time. It is also expected to bring 25 new jobs. There is a demonstrated and growing need for additional mental health services in our community, and throughout Southwest Virginia. This new facility will enable patients to receive treatment close to home and near the support of family and friends, Sean Pressman, CEO of LewisGale Hospital Pulaski, said. Statewide, five other hospitals expect to add 159 beds in the next year or two with most of them designated to treat children and adolescents. Trestman said there is such a crucial need for these types of beds that Carilion kept its childrens unit open during the renovations. He said Carilion also is developing more programs to keep people from needing to be admitted. Since Ive been here the last two years, weve worked to upgrade clinical services. We were able to dedicate more clinical time to the emergency room for both children and adolescents, he said. Kids who otherwise might have needed to be admitted we were able to treat, coordinate care and discharge safely from the emergency room. A bridge clinic was set up so kids and their families can be seen quickly after discharge. A similar program is helping to treat more adults in the community. But getting timely care outside of the emergency department is still problematic. Right now our average wait time is just under three weeks, and it is extremely difficult for us to shrink it, Trestman said. Psychiatrists are working with primary care doctors to try and treat patients in the physicians offices. Several of us are running telehealth clinics, so my Monday afternoon clinic is in support of primary care physicians and seeing patients in their office by telepsychiatry, he said. Trestman said that Carilion has hired five more psychiatrists for inpatient, clinic and telehealth, and four psychiatric nurse practitioners for Roanoke and the New River Valley, all of whom will begin in the coming months. Building more psychiatric services is difficult, he said. For a host of reasons, there is a national shortage of psychiatrists that is expected to only get worse over the next decade, so we are struggling with others around the nation to recruit people we need. James Newton, chairman of the hospital associations behavioral health committee and director of behavioral health for Bon Secours Virginia Health System, said during the news conference that workforce shortages are a pressing concern and a topic of daily discussion. He said the association is also working with the state Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services and Virginias Medicaid program to find ways to increase the options for people to be treated in the community. The hospitals are looking for Medicaid to begin to pay for additional services that would keep people from becoming inpatients. The states Medicaid program has been used similarly to increase the number of providers and types of services for treating people with addictions. The business news you need Get the latest local business news delivered FREE to your inbox weekly. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. A chase through Pulaski and Wythe counties ended early Thursday with gunshots and a collision between a pursued pickup truck and both a Virginia State Police cruiser and a Wythe County sheriff's deputy's vehicle, state police reported. According to the news release, the chase involved two phases, starting about 1:40 a.m. when a trooper spotted a 2008 Dodge pickup that had been reported stolen in Pulaski County. The trooper, heading south on Interstate 81 near Mile Marker 98 in Pulaski County, put on his emergency lights and pulled up behind the pickup. But the pickup did not stop, and as the trooper chased it down the interstate, the pickup's driver fired several shots at the trooper, the state police news release said. The officer was not injured. The pursuit entered Wytheville, and the trooper lost sight of the pickup. A search by state police and the Wythe County Sheriff's Office found the pickup at about 2:09 a.m., abandoned on Barrett Mill Road. Dog teams and aviation units were brought in, the news release said. At about 3:45 a.m., Wytheville town officers stopped a vehicle on West Railroad Avenue and found the female driver also was looking for the pickup's driver. As officers talked to the woman, "a pursuit of a Ford F-350 pickup truck was initiated" outside town limits, the news release said. The F-350 drove into Wytheville, then drove over an embankment "and was headed to where the female and town police were stopped," the news release said. Police were close behind and soon the pickup "rammed a Wythe County Sheriff's Deputy and then intentionally hit head-on a Virginia State Police trooper" on West Railroad Avenue, the news release said. In the final moments of the chase, Wythe County sheriff's deputy and a state trooper fired shots, the news release said. The release did not indicate if the officers' bullets hit anyone. A gun was found inside the F-350, which was reported stolen in Wythe County, the state police news release said. Police have not identified the driver of the pickup, except to say that he is an adult male and has been taken to Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital with life-threatening injuries. The trooper involved in the crash that ended the chase was taken to Wythe Community Hospital for treatment of minor injuries, as was a Wythe County sheriff's deputy, a state police news release said. Charges are pending, the news release said. Under state police policy, the trooper involved in the shooting has been placed on administrative leave until an investigation is finished. Be the first to know Get local news delivered to your inbox! Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Conway Elementary School fourth grader Jackson Payne was recognized as a hero this week by Staffords emergency responders for not only saving his mothers life, but also his younger brothers in a separate incident several days later. The first happened April 9, when Jennifer Payne of Stafford County met her two sonsJackson and Zacharyat the bus stop to walk them home. It was not the normal routine for Payne, who had been resting at home due to a lifelong medical condition. Since birth, Payne has had a rare congenital heart disease. I knew that things were going downhill, and I had been taking it easy hoping to get in with a specialist at The Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, but I went up to the bus stop anyway, instead of having my neighbor get the kids, Payne said. I was having chest pains on the way back home from the bus. Payne told 9-year-old Jackson, You have to help get mommy home, somethings not right. Jackson got his mother safely into the house, but on her way upstairs to lie down, Payne experienced massive chest pains and collapsed on the stairway, losing consciousness. As I was coming back to, between myself and Jackson, we called my parents in Massachusetts and my mom told Jackson over the phone to go and get help, Payne said. As Payne remained on the telephone with her mother, Jackson ran out of the house to a nearby neighbors home seeking assistance. The neighbor quickly returned to the Paynes home to attend to Jacksons ailing mother while Jackson dialed 911. I did that for mom because I couldnt just leave her, Jackson said. I had to get someone, so I ran as fast as I could. After the ambulance arrived, Payne was rushed to Mary Washington Hospital, where she spent the next several days under the care of doctors and specialists. Because of her complex heart disease Tetralogy of Fallot, a combination of four congenital abnormalities Payne was soon transferred to the Baltimore hospital for open-heart surgery. Now she is at home, on her way to a full recovery. Payne is grateful that her son helped save her life that day, but she was not surprised. Hes so amazing, and hes my little hero anyway, but I am amazed that hes so young and hes got everything so together. Hes such a great kid, Payne said. But Jacksons lifesaving duties didnt end after he helped his mother. Twelve days after his mother collapsed on the stairway, Jacksons grandmother, Jane Balestracci of Lawrence, Mass., was in Stafford with her husband, Victor, helping Payne recover, while spending time with Jackson, his 6-year-old brother Zachary, and Paynes husband Will. That night, the boys were overtired and cranky and it was close to bedtime, so I decided Zachary could have half a tablet of melatonin to help him sleep, said Balestracci. Zachary, who is allergic to tree nuts, took the portion of the tablet and immediately began showing signs of an allergic reaction. Jackson grabbed the bottle of melatonin and said to his grandmother, I need to read that. After quickly scanning the bottles label, he exclaimed, These have got nuts in them! Jackson raced to retrieve an EpiPen to neutralize an allergic reaction and brought the device to his mother, who immediately administered the antidote to young Zachary. Within seconds, Zachary was on the mend. Im pretty low key helping people every day, but that was pretty high key, said Jackson. Ive not saved a life many times, so my mom was a first and I did it for my brother for a second time. Hes smart. I think hes too smart for a 9-year-old, said Balestracci. A guidance counselor at Conway Elementary who was familiar with Jacksons good deeds told the story to D.A.R.E. Officer Tracy Scoggins, who brought the matter to the attention of Stafford Sheriff David Decatur. The sheriff recognized Jacksons heroic deeds at a special ceremony Monday. The actions that you took, and your bravery and everything that you did, we felt that it was so important that we got this whole group together to salute you and to say thank you, Decatur said. Look at you, youre in fourth grade, said Decatur. And youre already a hero in fourth grade. What do you have left? I have to finish Boy Scouts, Jackson said. By Max Perrine Perrine is a retired engineer. He lives in Hillsville. Enough is enough! Havent we had enough slave owner bashing that we are now going after Confederate citizen memorials? Referencing the April 28 Roanoke Times article, Arlington board asks to rename Davis Highway: Within 10 minutes of Googling a couple of prominent previous citizens of Virginia, I happened upon enough fodder to keep the change or erase history faction folks busy for a while. On September 9, 1791, the three commissioners overseeing the capitals construction named the city in honor of President Washington. (Writers Note: A previous slave owner.) The federal district was named Columbia (a feminine form of Columbus), which was a poetic name for the United States commonly in use at that time. Alexandria, founded in 1749, has a fascinating history, and many of its historic buildings are still preserved today. During its long history, Alexandria was a tobacco trading post, one of the ten busiest ports in America, a part of the District of Columbia, home to both the largest slave-trading firm in the country and a large free-black community, a Civil War supply center for Union troops, and a street-car suburb for federal workers. Do we want to rename Washington, our Capitol City of the United States, Boss Hog City? Remember, according to Wikipedia, George owned 317 slaves. According to Wikipedia, 12 of our Presidents were slave owners to some degree. The number of slaves owned by former presidents slightly exceeded 1,500 persons! Thomas Jefferson owned more than 600 slaves and was rumored to have fathered a few more! If youre talking only place names in the U.S., 241 townships in the United States, 26 cities, 1 borough, and 1 village are named Washington. Two villages and 1 borough are named Washingtonville. Fifteen mountains, 1 town, 1 city, and four neighborhoods are named Mount Washington. (The numbers of streets having the name of Washington within the cities are not listed.) Note: The first federal survey team named it Mount Washington after the young nations first president. At 6,288 feet above sea level, the highest mountain in New Hampshire is home to the worst weather in the world. (Writers Note: As a former New Hampshire resident, I would love to be a spectator watching the effort of the change or erase history faction getting that to happen in that state....) If we play our cards well enough, after spending enough of our state/federal tax monies to remove all of our historic Confederate citizen statues and renaming the state of Washington, and the cities, towns, and streets named after our first president and subsequent slave owning presidents and all other items and/or locations named after former slave owners, we might qualify for foreign aid from other countries. I can only assume that this is the reason that their citizens are lining up at our borders to rush in and monetarily assist our efforts to make sure that the local history has been made sugar sweet and all of our true history has been altered to forget what really happened several hundred years ago. The History Altering Association can then unite the Christians of the World to start an altercation with Israel and then go to Egypt to start removing and relocating the pyramids and of the statues of the pharaohs to correct Christian history. Good luck! Folks crap happens! Dont forget it or try to wipe it away like it never happened. You cant erase history; ask a holocaust survivor or a close relative of one. Live with it, remember it and dont allow it to happen again in your lifetime. Teach it to your children as history and instill in them the good graces to never allow it to happen again! Oops. Virginia Tech thought it would have 6,600 in this falls incoming freshman class. Instead, it will have somewhere between 7,500 and 7,585. Even the lower estimate means the incoming class of 2023 will be 17.4 percent bigger than what had been the biggest incoming class 6,836 in 2017. Its a good thing that the algorithm that Tech uses to project how many students accepted will actually attend isnt the same one used to land airplanes because Admissions sure overshot the runway on this one. The record size of the incoming class has caused some consternation in Blacksburg, both on and off campus, and renewed speculation that this unexpectedly large class isnt really unexpected at all that Tech secretly plans an exponential expansion. This is a persistent rumor, one that Tech President Timothy Sands addressed via tweet last month: Heard a rumor (again) today that VT will grow to the size of Penn St. or Ohio St. (46,000 undergrads). Truth: 2 yrs ago, we decided to cap undergrad enrollment at 30,000 until 2023 (2% annual growth rate) until VT and Blacksburg infrastructure is in place. Will reassess then. Those with long memories (such as ours) hear in this echoes of what weve heard before in other situations. In the 1970s, as Madison College was growing into James Madison University, school officials routinely claimed that enrollment had peaked and wouldnt grow past a certain level. First it was 5,500. Then it was 7,500. Then 8,000 and later 9,000. We dont ever anticipate reaching 10,000 or 12,000, then-president Ronald Carrier declared in 1978. By the time he retired two decades later, the school had 14,000 students. Today it has 21,751 students. For Virginia Tech, theres nothing incompatible between a 30,000 cap now until VT and Blacksburg infrastructure is in place and much bigger growth later. In fact, thats exactly how wed expect such a leap to happen because thats how its happened elsewhere. For now, Tech attributes the larger-than-expected incoming class to the free market at work. Universities always accept more students than they can handle because they know most students apply multiple places and not all will come. This time, more than expected said yes. The marketplace speaks. The big jump in Tech acceptances is all the more notable because the national trend runs in a very different direction. Nationally, college enrollment has been declining for the past six years, generally attributed to an improving economy which has made going straight into the workforce more attractive, and rising tuitions that have deterred some students for going into monstrous debt. Virginia Tech is bucking a national trend here and, generally speaking, thats a good thing. The transition from the industrial age to the information age requires a more educated workforce and while we like to think of the United States as being number one in everything, were not. Among 25-to-34 year-olds, the age cohort most likely to have gone to college, 12 countries have a higher percentage of college graduates than the United States. In declining order: South Korea, Canada, Japan, Russia (yes, Russia!), Lithuania, Ireland, Australia, Great Britain, Luxembourg, Switzerland, Norway and Israel. Being 13th in the world is probably not the best way to make America great again. In that context, you can consider Techs big incoming class an act of patriotism. Also of note: The incoming class also will likely be Techs most diverse ever, as well as one of the most academically-gifted ever. Of course, while the United States needs more college students, its fair to ask is whether we need so many at this one institution. The answer to that depends on your perspective. Some officials arent happy. Blacksburg Mayor Leslie Hager-Smith says she is very concerned. Blacksburg is a town that is very particular about what type of growth happens there perhaps too particular in the eyes of some yet has no control over the biggest entity within its borders. University of Virginias College at Wise which has seen enrollment dip and this year sought special dispensation from the General Assembly to offer in-state rates to out-of-state students in the Appalachian region probably wishes some of those excess students were in Wise, not Blacksburg. Sweet Briar College, which is trying to grow enrollment after a near-death experience, immediately targeted the women on the wait-list for Techs engineering school and offered them automatic admission. Heres another way to answer that question, although its not an answer that Blacksburg or some Tech faculty will like. Any locality in western Virginia other than Blacksburg would be better off if Tech had a bigger enrollment even that mythical 46,000 enrollment goal. Indeed, especially that mythical 46,000. Heres why: One of the economic imperatives for the region is really a demographic one: We need more young adults, especially young adults with college degrees. Most localities are losing young adults (Roanoke and Montgomery County are the exceptions). And outside Montgomery County, every locality in the region has a deficiency of adults with college degrees. In many rural communities in this part of the state, the percentage of working-age adults with a college degree is less than that of Mexico. Yes, Mexico. In the information age, the skill level of the workforce is one of the main things that draws jobs or sends them elsewhere. Thats why one of the official economic goals for the region stretching from the New River Valley to Lynchburg is to persuade more college graduates to stay in the region each one who does solves two problems at once. The more students who are at Virginia Tech, the more opportunity we have to make the case for some to stay. For that matter, the more students Sweet Briar College has, the better off we are, too. Wed rather some of those wait-listed Tech engineering students go to Sweet Briar than to some other school in a different part of the state, or a different state altogether. Blacksburg might feel the strain, but other communities in western Virginia might someday feel the benefit. Not that Blacksburg has a choice, but if it did, and capped Techs enrollment, Blacksburg wouldnt feel the pain but Pulaski County and Giles County and Roanoke County and Botetourt County and lots of other places would. This is cold comfort to Blacksburg, but some Vulcan philosophy from Star Treks Spock applies: The needs of the many outweigh the needs of the few. AFGHANISTAN Taliban attacks Va.-based nonprofit KABUL Heavily armed Taliban fighters stormed the offices of a Virginia-based nonprofit group in central Kabul on Wednesday, sparking a gun battle with security forces that lasted several hours, witnesses said. Officials said two Afghan civilians were killed and about 20 were hospitalized with injuries. They also said about 80 people were rescued from the four-story building occupied by Counterpart International, a U.S. government-supported group headquartered in Arlington that promotes leadership, civic engagement and elections in foreign countries. There was no indication that any foreigners were killed or wounded, and no information as to whether any were in the building when it was attacked. It was not immediately clear how many attackers were involved and whether any survived. UNITED NATIONS Head of U.N. AIDS agency abruptly quits GENEVA The U.N. AIDS agency says its executive director is leaving the post immediately, following allegations he mishandled sexual assault claims at the agency. UNAIDS said Michel Sidibe will become health minister in his native Mali with immediate effect. He will be replaced by his Swedish deputy, Gunilla Carlsson, on a temporary basis. Sidibe had already been set to leave the post in June, six months before the scheduled end to his tenure. He announced the early exit after an internal investigation made public late last year faulted defective leadership at UNAIDS. He has led the agency since 2009. POLAND Auschwitz Museum decries retail items WARSAW, Poland The Auschwitz Memorial and Museum has complained to an e-commerce site that was selling miniskirts, tote bags and other items printed with photos of the former Nazi German death camp where around 1.1 million people were killed during World War II. The museum in Poland learned about the products offered on Australian e-commerce site Redbubble from people who saw them online, spokesman Bartosz Bartyzel said Wednesday. Employees were shocked and outraged over what they considered blatant dishonoring of Holocaust victims, he said. The items that caused offense were created by various designers and carried black-and-white post-war images of Auschwitz and the railway tracks leading into the Birkenau extermination camp and its gas chambers. BRAZIL Ex-ministers condemn environmental policy SAO PAULO Eight former Brazilian environment ministers lashed out at far-right President Jair Bolsonaro on Wednesday, saying his administration is wrecking environmental protections. Gathered at the University of Sao Paulo, the former officials issued a blistering statement on what they called the governments attacks on public policies that protect the ecosystem. They said the Bolsonaro government, which took office Jan. 1, has installed a sense of impunity that may favor deforestation in the Amazon, the vast expanse of rain forest whose existence many scientists consider vital to curbing climate change. Jordan Gould A MAN who downloaded hundreds of indecent images of children and extreme pornography has been warned he will face a jail sentence if he offends again. Jordan Gould (23), of Narrow Lane, North Anston, had pictures on his laptop and phone of children as young as six being abused. He was sentenced to a 30-month community order at Sheffield Crown Court last Thursday. Mr Andrew Smith, prosecuting, told the court that police officers acting on intelligence had visited Goulds home in June 2016, and seized his laptop and iPhone. When officers analysed the devices, they found 465 indecent images of children, including 134 category A images - the most graphic kind - most of which were still images. They also found 23 extreme pornographic images and two prohibited images of children, said Mr Smith. One of the most graphic images showed boys aged between seven and nine while another showed girls aged between six and eight. Gould denied having indecent images on his computer when he was interviewed by the police, Mr Smith said. His computer and files were password-protected but specialist officers managed to access them. The images had been downloaded between November 2012, when Gould was 16, and 2016. In 2012, the defendant was involved in email correspondence with people who appeared to have a similar interest in the viewing of children under the age of 18, said Mr Smith. Gould admitted to making indecent photographs of children, possession of prohibited images of children and possession of extreme pornography at an earlier hearing at Sheffield Crown Court. Mitigating, Mr Dermot Hughes, said Gould had acquired habits at the start of his offending, when he was still a child, without realising the awfulness of his activity or the harm caused by images of this kind. Sentencing Gould, Judge Michael Slater told him: The offences, taken together, are so serious that, in an ordinary course of events, only a significant term of custody would be justified. It is said you became embroiled in addictions to pornography of an extreme nature at an early age due to problems you were experiencing at the time. Each of these photographs has a young victim and people like you cause victims of that sort by your predilection for images of this nature. I hope, by now, you realise the true nature and seriousness of what you have done. Mr Slater said that if he had jailed Gould he would have moved no further forward by the end of his sentence. Instead, he gave him a 30-month community order which included 15 days of rehabilitation activity requirement and a sex offenders programme. Either comply with the order, co-operate with the probation service, get out of the filthy mire that you wallow in at the moment, or go to prison, its as simple as that, said Mr Slater. This will be by no means an easy option - if you dont do it, you will be back before me and if that happens, in all likelihood, I will send you away. Gould was also given a five-year sexual harm prevention order which will ban him from deleting his internet history, using software which would mask his browsing history or using an internet-enabled device without making it available for inspection. A spokeswoman for the Lucy Faithfull Foundation said: If you are concerned about what you are looking at online, or the online behaviour of someone you know, you can call the confidential and anonymous Stop It Now helpline on 0808 1000 900 for advice, support and help to stop or visit https://get-help.stopitnow.org.uk/ to find out more. Capt Amarinder Calls For United Vote Sunam, May 9: Calling for a united vote to wipe out the communal Akalis, who had shamelessly resorted to sacrilege to polarize communities ahead of the Assembly polls, Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh on Thursday said this land of martyrs was an inspiration for those who had sacrificed themselves for an India that belonged to all religions and communities. Addressing an election rally here in support of Congress candidate from Sangrur, Kewal Singh Dhillon, Captain Amarinder made an emotional appeal to the people not to let Narendra Modi and his Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) destroy Indias biggest strength its unity. Vowing not to spare the Badals or anyone involved in trying to divide the people of Punjab through desecration of the holy scriptures of various religions, the Chief Minister said they would have to pay for their sins, including the firing on peaceful and unarmed people protesting against sacrilege cases. Advertisement Land of martyrs was an inspiration Paying his tributes to Shaheed Udham Singh, whose picture he was presented on the dais, the Chief Minister said the freedom fighters selfless sacrifice remains an inspiration for Indians even today. He recalled the incident of Udham Singh keeping a bottle of the blood-soaked Jallianwala Bagh soil next to his pillow, for years, out of sheer grief at the tragic killings of innocent Indians. Those people were of a different mettle, he said, exhorting people to ensure that the India of their dreams is not destroyed by communal forces. The nation was passing through difficult times and these Lok Sabha elections would decide its future by choosing between those engaged in communalizing politics and those desirous of building the secular India of the dreams of the freedom fighters, said the Chief Minister. Advertisement Modi and his men were breaking the strength of the nation and usurping the achievements of the armed forces as their own, for furthering their political interests, he said, quipping that as an Army officer he had served Indian forces and not Modis forces. Attacking the Akali candidate from Sangrur, Parminder Singh Dhindsa, Captain Amarinder squarely blamed the former Punjab finance minister for the fiscal crisis faced by the state and the additional debt burden of Rs 31000 crore he had put on the coming generations in the state. Paying tributes to Shaheed Udham Singh The Akalis ruined the state, lamented the Chief Minister, declaring that his government would complete the farm debt waiver process for the 10.25 lakh small and marginal farmers, as promised. If we can do it despite the fiscal crisis in Punjab, why could Prakash Singh Badal not do it, he asked, pointing that while all states were trying to help their farmers the relief provided by his government was the maximum. Advertisement However, he reiterated that debt relief was only a temporary measure and in toto implementation of the MS Swaminathan Commission report was the only solution to the woes of the farmers across the country. Nostalgically recalling his first campaign in Sunam, which was then part of Patiala constituency, 42 years ago, the Chief Minister said he was elated to see the same love showered on him even today, and promised to fulfill all the expectations of the people. Lok Sabha elections would decide its future His government, said Captain Amrinder, was doing its best to ease the unemployment problem by facilitating jobs in government, private and self-employment. In the government sector, there are still 1.2 lakh vacancies, which were left unfilled by the Akalis as they diverted and squandered resources, said the chief minister adding that these jobs would be given to the youth of Punjab in phases in the coming year. Advertisement Asserting that he had broken the backbone of the drugs mafia, as he had vowed to do, the Chief Minister said the SIT and Punjab Police were in pursuit of the big fish and were working closely with other north Indian states to track and nab them. The promise of smart phones to aid youth in education was also on way to being fulfilled, Captain Amarinder said, adding that the first batch of such phones would be distributed soon after these elections. Addressing an election rally The efforts of his government to improve education standards in the state were showing results, he said, congratulating the Class X students who had passed the PSEB exams and also lauding the efforts of the Education Department and government school teachers for the recor 88.21% pass percentage an increase of 30% over the previous year. Others who spoke at the rally included PPCCs Election Campaign Chairman, Lal Singh, Cabinet Minister, Vijay Inder Singla, and former CM, Rajinder Kaur Bhattal. MODI HAS NO RIGHT TO SEEK VOTES FROM PUNJAB Patiala: Hours before Narendra Modi was scheduled to arrive in Punjab to campaign for BJP-SAD, Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh went on a major offensive to corner the Prime Minister over his audacity in seeking votes from the people of the state, for which he had done nothing. Captain Amarinder Singh Advertisement Talking informally with mediapersons on the sidelines of his rally in support of Congress candidate Preneet Kaur in Pratap Nagar here, the Chief Minister said Modi had no moral right to ask for votes in Punjab, for which he had done absolutely nothing and whose people he had left to fend for themselves despite the acute problems faced by them. The Modi government did nothing for Punjab or its people in the last 2 years and 2 months since the Congress government took over in the state, despite repeated requests personally by him, showing a total lack of callous selfishness, said the Chief Minister earlier at the rally, asserting that his government was left to fend for itself despite the massive debt legacy left behind by the erstwhile BJP-SAD government. Captain Amarinder Singh & Parneet Kaur Advertisement Not only had the state gone ahead with its promised farm loan waiver scheme but had expanded the primary health insurance cover to 42 lakh families instead of the mere 14.96 lakh SECC families covered under the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana, Captaim Amarinder pointed out. Describing Modi as a self-obsessed man, the Chief Minister drew a sharp contrast between the Prime Ministers handling of the Balakot success and Indira Gandhis achievement in splitting Pakistan to create Bangladesh during the 1971 war. The nation has seen how Modi has ruled in the past five years, destroying every institution and ruining all sections of the society with his ill-conceived policies, such as demonetisation and GST, he added. MODI HAS NO RIGHT TO SEEK VOTES FROM PUNJAB, says Captain Advertisement Captain Amarinder compared Modis partisan style of functioning to that of Dr. Manmohan Singh, pointing out that the latter conceded all demands of the Akali government and, when he (Captain Amarinder) pointed this out, he was told that as Prime Minister, it was Dr Singhs duty to support all states. Stressing the need for change, the Chief Minister said the fate of the country was now in the hands of the people. The nations growth rate had been put in the reverse direction, and every citizen of India was suffering under the Modi regime, he added. Referring to the Rs 31,000 food credit issue, the Chief Minister said the self-serving Akalis had put an unnecessary burden on the state by agreeing to convert the amount to a loan just ahead of the Assembly elections. Despite his government taking up the issue at all levels, including meetings between the finance ministers, nothing had been done by the central government to ease the burden, he pointed out. Advertisement MODI HAS NO RIGHT TO SEEK VOTES FROM PUNJAB, says Captain Lashing out at the Akalis for their petty thinking in ignoring the development of his home constituency of Patiala, Captain Amarinder said Patialvis were his family and he would continue to ensure their welfare. His government, he said, have cleared several projects for Patiala. Reiterating that all promises made by the Congress before the Assembly polls would be fulfilled, the Chief Minister pointed out that his government would fill up all the 1.2 lakh government vacancies that the Akalis had failed to fill. Industry and investment was being revived and the stage was set for disbursement of the promised smart phones to youth, he said, pointing out that his government still had nearly three years to bring Punjab back to the number 1 ranking it had proudly held before the Akalis, helped by the BJP, ruined it. Earlier, Preneet Kaur also came down heavily on Modi over his fake promises and his destructive decisions, such as GST and demonetisation. Modis attack on Late Rajiv Gandhi had showed the depth to which he could stoop in his desperation to woo voters, who were completely disillusioned by his failure to meet even a single promise made to the people of India. MODI HAS NO RIGHT TO SEEK VOTES FROM PUNJAB, says Captain She also lashed out at the Akalis for completely ignoring Patiala, as it was the home of Captain Amarinder, during the 10 years of their rule. The Congress government has launched several development projects, to the tune of Rs. 200 crore, which were currently under way, she pointed out, adding that she would continue to work unwaveringly for the welfare of Patialas people. Later, the Chief Minister addressed another rally at Diesel Component Works (DCW), Patiala, appealing to the people to send Preneet to Lok Sabha with a thumping majority so that she could raise their voice in Parliament. A comprehensive study undertaken by the Bertelmann Stiftung and University of Sussex examines the real impact of the EU Single Market on incomes. Economists Giordano Mion (University of Sussex) and Dominic Ponattu (Bertelsmann Stiftung) examined more than 250 regions in Europe to determine income gains coming from membership of the EU Single Market, the world's largest economic area. The purpose of the study was to determine the real benefits of the EU Single Market membership on residents, namely in the form of income. The authors examine how the trade boosting effects of the Single Market impact productivity, markups, product variety, welfare, and the distribution of population across European regions and countries. The study examined both regions and countries, with Luxembourg being considered as a single region compared to larger countries which are divided into regions. Luxembourg amongst the biggest winners Bertelmann Stiftung The two major trends emanating from the study are that firstly, the economies of smaller countries with strong exports benefit more from being inside the EU Single Market than the largest economies and secondly, those areas and countries in the EU's geographic core tend to have the strongest per capita gains. The countries with the highest income gains per capita and per person are Switzerland (2,900), Luxembourg (2,800), and Ireland (1,900). Given that Switzerland is a member of the EU Single Market, but not of the EU, this makes Luxembourg the EU member-state with the highest income gains resulting from the EU Single Market membership. Ponattu, the co-author of the study, said "the biggest winners are small countries that trade a lot and have competitive economies." Luxembourg and Switzerland also both come in at the top in the calculation of relative per capita welfare gains, with Luxembourg (4.33%) following behind Belgium (4.35%) at the top of the ranking. Bertelmann Stiftung The study also examined the projected losses resulting from Brexit relative to income gains from the Single Market, which puts Luxembourg amongst the countries likely to lose the most. Non-EU regions benefiting the most In terms of regions in which inhabitants benefit the most, the study highlighted the strange reality that the top of list involves areas that are not currently in the EU or will soon be leaving the EU. Zurich inhabitants see the highest income gains resulting from the Single Market (per capita gains of 3,590), followed by London (2,700). Both regions share their status as financial hubs and benefit, according to the study, from "a strong influx of skilled workers and firms" due to the removal of borders. The study also emphasised a few interesting phenomena concerning the United Kingdom, namely that some the regions benefiting most from the EU Single Market voted in favour of Brexit. The data also shows a disparity between different regions within the UK, especially a north-south divide. Ponattu maintained:"A complete withdrawal of the UK from the EU Single Market would hit not only London hard, but also other productive regions in the country." In commemoration of Europe Day in Luxembourg, a crowd of employees from European Union institutions gathered at a document burial site in Kirchberg to pay respect to the millions of pages of official reports that, once printed, were never read. Its great that we have this day to celebrate European unity, but its important to remember all those documents that were researched, written, and translated into dozens of languages, but died totally unknown to anyone except their creators, said Victor, whose job is to translate reports about topics ranging from the mating habits of frogs on the Iberian peninsula to fluctuations in the price of toilet paper in rural Poland. Among the buried unread official European reports is one believed to be the first: a heavy 443-page ECSC analysis from 1951 that examined the history of steel taxation and was meticulously translated from French into Italian, Dutch, and German. It took experts thousands of hours to prepare, and copies were distributed to hundreds of officials, but all of them ended up being used as stools for short people, say historians. When I think about all of those typewriters going click, click, clack, and the reams of paper that were carefully assembled but immediately put on a shelf where they spent 20 years gathering dust, I feel really sad, said Lisbet, herself an author of dozens of legal reports that she realizes no one has opened. Did they know that someone once loved them and thought hey, this is good stuff. The commemoration in Luxembourg is not the only sombre Europe Day gathering this year. Earlier this week, EU translators lit candles in Brussels to honour a young linguist and aspiring poet who held advanced degrees in Spanish and Hungarian literature and who, after just a month of work for the Commission, died from boredom. Read more at wurst.lu Photo credit: Pixabay In late October 1968, U.S. Army Corporal Jeffrey Junkins and his best buddy, Sgt. Gary Matson, were installing M16 landmines near Mai-Loc, their Vietnamese base camp. Bouncing Bettys the devices were nicknamed, because they sprang 3 feet into the air before exploding their shrapnel directly into the heads and chests of their doomed trippers. Suddenly, Junkins found himself sprung into the air and flung 20 feet away. After regaining consciousness, he realized that Matson had set off a previously installed Bouncing Betty. He also realized that he was covered in Matsons flesh, brains and teeth many of which had embedded themselves into his skull. Finally, he realized that he was now lying atop another Bouncing Betty one destined to detonate as soon as his body lifted off its pressure sensor. Fellow Green Berets, responding to the explosion, commanded Junkins to lie perfectly still. Several hours of drama transpired as they tried to safely get to him and then to deactivate the landmine. That bomb failed to go off. But on May 14, 1999 20 years ago next Tuesday another one did. Junkins intentionally overdosed on prescription opioids. Good morning, Vietnam Junkins enlisted in 1964, the year after he graduated La Jolla High School, spurred on by President John F. Kennedys ask what you can do for your country speech. This photo shows Junkins at the top-secret Studies and Observations Group at Phu Bai, South Vietnam. He is wearing a helicopter crewmember helmet and protective vest. COURTESY JOHN STRYKER MEYER/'ON THE GROUND' He was very proud of his Vietnam service, said Azad Abbasi, who chatted recently about his old friend in front of Junkins plaque at the Mt. Soledad National Veterans Memorial. But it was a double-edged sword because it pretty much broke him. Junkins was in the thick of a secret war waged by the Studies and Observations Group (SOG), a joint unconventional warfare task force operated by the Pentagon from 1964 to 1972. He ran recon missions for the deadliest operation of the entire Vietnam War, said John Stryker Meyer, who befriended Junkins on a Vietnam-bound plane in 1968 and resumed their friendship in California 17 years later. (Meyer wrote a 2007 book about SOG, On the Ground, which details Junkins landmine nightmare.) At one point, SOGs casualty rate exceeded 100 percent, Meyer said, because some people were wounded multiple times. (Junkins earned at least two purple hearts, Meyer said.) Happier times Junkins who would have turned 74 on Valentines Day was raised by an overprotective Jewish mother who divorced his father early on. He had a standard-issue La Jolla childhood loving the outdoors, building up his surfing chops, getting into minor mischief including marijuana. Like all of his former friends interviewed for this article, lifetime La Jolla resident Doug Moranville described Junkins as a good surfer and great person fiercely loyal to his friends, but also just plain fierce if you crossed him. He had a real violent streak I saw once or twice, Moranville said, but never any sadness ever. He was a happy kid. Performing reconnaissance under heavy Viet Cong fire was Junkins final Vietnam mission, though he didnt intend it to be. The impact of the shrapnel literally blew him out of the helicopter as it crashed, irreparably damaging his lower back and hip. Home surf When Junkins returned to La Jolla on Army disability, he hid his chronic pain and dove back into surfing and his old social circles. Bill Fitzmaurice, current president of the Windansea Surf Club, met him on the very first day Fitzmaurice moved to La Jolla from Brazil in 1971. There was this local surfing legend at the time who I was so stoked to get to meet and surf with, Fitzmaurice said, declining to mention the legends name. But he was so obnoxious, so uncool, he cut me off five times and ran me over. So I just walked up to the guy and punched him in the face. Then, Fitzmaurice recalled, he received a hard poke on the shoulder. It was Junkins. I thought I was going to get beaten up and told never to surf Windansea again, he said. Instead, Jeff told me that was the coolest thing hed ever seen and we became friends for the rest of his life. To supplement his disability, Junkins worked manual-labor jobs until 1981, when he and a girlfriend, Helen, founded La Jolla Surf Systems, 2132 Avenida De La Playa which still is operated by Doug Marshall, the owner they eventually sold the business to. That same year, Junkins was elected president of the Windansea Surf Club himself though he only served for a year before forming his own surf club, Club Windansea, which featured a grenade as its logo. I dont know why he formed his own club, Fitzmaurice said. He probably just disagreed with where the main club was going. Jeff was seriously hardcore. He was nuts. In a lot of ways, La Jolla back then was like an insane asylum if the walls fell down and nobody left. Hurt locker As the years turned into decades, Junkins pain got harder to hide. He told me that, in the morning, he couldnt pick up his legs, Meyer said. Maggie (his mother) would have to come in and lift his legs so he could just get out of bed. Friends say his emotional agony was nearly equivalent. Azad Abbasi, wearing his old Club Windansea T-shirt with the grenade logo, speaks about Junkins in front of his late friend's plaque at the Mt. Soledad National Veterans Memorial. COREY LEVITAN He was very functioning and stoic until his late 40s, said Abbasi, who met Junkins when they were neighbors living in the cottages behind Pannikin Coffee & Tea in 1982. Then, things started coming out. Abbasi often asked Junkins about Vietnam, but he said the landmine story never came up until at least a decade into their friendship. I remember he told me that when the paratroopers came over, he could see in their eyes that they were sure he wouldnt make it, Abbasi said. Although the Veterans Administration (VA) now understands how to treat Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, at the time, it was like, Heres some pills, go away, Abbasi said. They were giving him massive quantities of Valium. Whether he was asking for more, I dont know, but it did not help. MIA child Also weighing heavily on Junkins psyche was the daughter he didnt get to see until she was 13 and after that only about 30 more times. A total of a month we spent together, which is incredibly sad when you say it out loud that I only spent a month with my dad, said Amber Sperl, who is now 42 and lives in Phoenix with her own two sons and a daughter. Sperls mother was an earlier girlfriend who dated Junkins for about two years. (Sperl said she doesnt want her name published.) Maggie never wanted my mom to have me, Sperl said. So my mom was very careful not to get back in touch, because she thought Maggie and my dad would take me and she would never see me again. The 30 visits occurred during a brief window of detente around 1990, when Sperls mother took pity on Junkins and decided to give him another chance. She even let him attend Sperls 13th birthday. But my dad was drinking a lot by then, Sperl said. And I know he smoked pot, and all the pills the VA had him on, he just kind of fell off the wagon and my mom cut him off again. After that, Meyer said, Junkins told him he would watch Sperl play in the Muirlands Middle School playground once or twice a week without her knowledge. He had a couple of secret spots to watch her from, Meyer said. It was a very sad situation. For a few years, Junkins dropped off Valentines Day/birthday cards for his daughter at her schools front office. (Both were born on the holiday.) I still have every one of those cards, Sperl said. A few months before his suicide, Abbasi said, Junkins told him: Hey, we should go downtown and Ill put stuff in your name in case something happens to me. I didnt think anything of it at the time, Abbasi said. I was like, Dude, youre only 53. Whats going to happen to you? The signs were there, I just didnt see them. Peace at last Junkins spent his final days focused on getting 100 percent benefits from the VA, with his mother as the beneficiary. It was a long, painful fight, Meyer said. But he got it lined up, and once he did, he bought a nice apartment in La Jolla for them both and that was it. It was the apartment where Maggie found her sons body and the suicide note. The funeral, with 21-gun salute, was at Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery. Maggie was cremated and interred there herself alongside Junkins only six months later. It didnt surprise me that she went so soon after he did, Abbasi said. They were so close and she was never the same after that. She was very bitter about what Vietnam had done to her son. Sperl didnt even know her father was dead until a year later. She had received a random letter from a company that takes on clients who could be owed money. On a whim, she filled out the form and forgot about it. After receiving a voicemail mentioning the estate of Maggie Junkins, Sperl immediately called back and was told that her grandmother had died and she was her only living heir. Only living heir? Sperl recalled asking the man on the phone. What about my dad?! Junkins friends had tried to reach Sperl to invite her and her mother to the funeral, but couldnt track them down. So the worst news of Sperls life to that point had to be broken to her by a complete stranger. I remember my mom and I just cried, she said. Sperl said she doesnt blame or resent anyone. Its just so unfortunate the way things turned out, she said. We could have been so close today. He could know his three grandchildren, and I guarantee I wouldnt be living in Phoenix. When authorities raided a Bel-Air mansion this week, they had no idea about the cache of firearms they would find. Over the course of several hours, they removed more than 1,000 weapons in one of the largest seizures of its kind in Los Angeles. Girard Saenz, 57, was arrested on suspicion of violating Californias law regarding assault weapons and .50-caliber Browning machine guns. The law prohibits the manufacture, distribution, transportation, importation and sale of such firearms, except in specific circumstances. He was released from jail Thursday morning after posting $50,000 bond, according to jail records. Here is what we know: Advertisement Who is Girard Saenz? A law enforcement source not authorized to speak publicly told The Times that Saenz was selling guns and that some of the weapons may have been fully automatic, which are illegal in California. Officials received a tip about a person illegally manufacturing and selling guns in a home in the 100 block of North Beverly Glen Boulevard, the Los Angeles Police Department said. Court records show the property is owned by Cynthia Beck, who has three daughters with J. Paul Gettys son Gordon Getty and who is a longtime companion of Saenzs. A source told The Times that a few of the items seized at the Bel-Air mansion were military-grade weapons. Beck bought the property in January 2001, but it remains unclear what, if any, connection she has to Wednesdays events. She could not be reached for comment after the raid. Public records show that Saenz has been a licensed general building contractor since 1994 and operates a business called Gerry Saenz and Associates. The business address is a home on North Bunker Hill Avenue in Los Angeles that he owns with Beck. That property was also searched by authorities Wednesday, law enforcement sources told The Times. Public records show Beck and Saenz together own several pieces of property in Los Angeles and an office building in San Francisco. Neither Saenz nor his attorney could be reached for comment Thursday. What sparked the raid? Police launched an investigation after receiving an anonymous tip about someone selling guns at the home, said Officer Mike Lopez, an LAPD spokesman. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives said in a statement that its agents searched the Bel-Air home after discovering an individual was illegally selling firearms outside the scope of the federal license the person possesses. Video of the raid shows what appear to be ATF officials reviewing the trove of guns stacked on the ground, examining boxes and taking photographs of evidence. Authorities said they also found a large amount of firearm-manufacturing equipment and tools. This is a big stash, Lt. Chris Ramirez, an LAPD spokesman, told reporters at the scene. Its beyond comprehension that somebody can have so many weapons in a residence like this, in a neighborhood like this. What do legal experts say? Steve Cooley, a former Los Angeles County district attorney, said the number of firearms Saenz is accused of having is not the problem. There is nothing in itself wrong with having a thousand guns. It all depends on whether they comply with California and federal laws, he cautioned, noting that even with a federal firearms license to sell weapons, the legal aspects of doing so are very complex. Chuck Michel, a well-known gun rights attorney, said that having 1,000 guns isnt that unusual for a federal firearms dealer. He said dealers often keep their own private collections and then separately keep an inventory of weapons in stock for the business. As a federally licensed weapons dealer, a person can sell guns elsewhere that are not compliant with Californias assault rifle laws. The state, however, requires dealers to have a dangerous weapons permit, Michel said. Sometimes, he said, dealers can overlook the correct paperwork and run afoul of the law, noting that sensational search warrants with piles of guns often end up without charges. As a former student of Latin and briefly Middle English, I learned from an early age that language is a time machine, capable of carrying the imagination into the past. Arma virumque cano I sing of arms and the man writes Virgil as he opens the door upon his tale of ancient Rome. Whan that Aprille with his shoures soote April with its sweet showers writes Chaucer as he begins his story of pilgrims sojourning to Canterbury. These poets and countless others captured worlds that have long disappeared, yet their works remain today as compelling and meaningful as when they were originally written. Advertisement Tongva, the first language of Los Angeles, has no literature written by native speakers, and its last native speaker died by some estimates at least 50 years ago. But after visiting a classroom in San Pedro where instructor Pam Munro laid out her lessons, I fell back in time and caught glimpses of this city its beauty and tragedy laid out over time. Tongva, Los Angeles first language, opens the door to a forgotten time and place Totoonarom. Isaawtom. Papaashukat. Pronghorns, wolves and elks no longer roam the L.A. Basin. Papaaishar. Sea otters swim no more in local kelp beds. But there they were in the well-practiced enunciation of these students. Language, wrote the novelist Walker Percy, is the very mirror by which we see and know the world. The mirror of Tongva captures a largely unrecognizable world, a world initially changed and shaped by the Spanish upon their arrival in Southern California. It is hard to imagine this flood plain with its communities of indigenous people, harder too to imagine their forced relocation, chillingly captured in this video map. As much as I thought about these villages, I also considered the land itself, the bayous and the savannas once plentiful here. I even found myself searching for words, like bayou and savanna, that rarely surface in descriptions of Southern California. Freeway, suburb, beach are our lingua franca. Over three classroom visits, I listened as students mastered pronunciation (like the glottal stop represented typographically by ' which is the sound in the middle of uh-oh), as they studied markers (suffixes or prefixes added to words to indicate their grammatical function in a sentence) and as they coined new words (povaakat worooyt, said one student to a 10-year-old playing with a small toy: Batman). Watching their efforts, I realized that Tongva was not just a link to the past but a living language, animated by their enthusiasm, hopefulness and poignancy of their efforts. If language is a mirror, then this reflection even as sunlight poured through the classrooms open doorway occasionally darkened. Were it not for the work of Munro, building upon the records of early ethnographers, these lessons would never exist. California on the eve of contact with Europeans was an exuberant clamor of Native American economies, languages, tribes and individuals, Benjamin Madley writes in An American Genocide: The United States and the California Indian Catastrophe. But that exuberant clamor soon became a dirge. From 1846 to 1873, an estimated 80% of the California Indian population died. To look at the old black-and-white photographs of the Tongva consultants Felicitas Serrano Montano, Mrs. James Rosemyre, Jose Zalvidea who survived and shared their language with its earliest students, John Peabody Harrington and C. Hart Merriam, is to be filled with sorrow for what once was. California before the arrival of the Spanish in 1769 was one of the most linguistically diverse places on Earth. Of the 90 or so languages belonging to Native Californians, somewhere between two dozen to 30 are still spoken. Given the private nature of these languages and that no recent survey has been conducted, precise calculations are impossible. Linguists today are rightly dismayed by this extinction and by the loss of many languages worldwide. Virginia Carmelo and her granddaughter Virginia Paveen Sanchez, 6, look at illustrations by her other granddaughters during a monthly Tongva language class. (Katie Falkenberg / Los Angeles Times) English-language dominance in the English-speaking world has achieved and continues to achieve the highest documented rate of destruction, approaching now 90%, wrote linguist Michael Krauss in 1992. Surely, just as extinction of any animal species diminishes our world, so does the extinction of any language. Should we mourn the loss of Eyak or Ubykh any less than the loss of the panda or California condor? Like the condor, Californias native languages continue to be threatened. Discrimination, shame and the juggernaut of English disseminated in popular culture take a toll. Unlike cuisine, which proudly declares itself and is easily celebrated, language leaves a more complicated mark. As much as it builds communities, it also divides. In 1998, more than 60% of California voters approved Proposition 227, which eliminated most bilingual instruction in public schools. Eighteen years later, it was repealed. Legislatures in 29 states including California have passed resolutions declaring English the official language. Only Alaska and Hawaii grant indigenous languages co-official status. Los Angeles has been described as a polyglot city. An estimated 120 languages from Hmong to Qanjobal to Korean, French, Russian and Spanish are spoken here, but as former Times writer Robert Lee Hotz wrote in 2000, language is for some a portal to wealth, power and attainment, but for others, it can break you box you in, force you down paths you would never have taken. Against this recent history, the work of Munro and her students is heroic. Culture thrives on differences, and in this classroom, they gather to create something rich and new and vital. Munro never called her commitment to teaching Tongva a work of love, but I could think of no better description for this act of redemption. thomas.curwen@latimes.com Twitter: @tcurwen A federal prosecutor says a 19-year-old man accused of a deadly attack on a Southern California synagogue called a 911 dispatcher and said he thought he killed some people and did it because he was trying to defend my nation against Jews. U.S. Atty. Robert S. Brewer Jr. announced Thursday in San Diego the filing of 109 federal hate-crime charges against John T. Earnest stemming from last months shooting at Chabad of Poway, which killed a woman and wounded three other people. The new charges also include an earlier arson at a nearby mosque. Brewer says authorities will not allow community members to be hunted in their houses of worship. Advertisement Prosecutors say Earnest killed a woman and wounded an 8-year-old girl, her uncle and Rabbi Yisroel Goldstein, who was leading the service April 27 at the Chabad of Poway synagogue on the last day of Passover, a major Jewish holiday. In a court appearance last month, Earnest pleaded not guilty to state charges of murder and attempted murder. In a separate case, he pleaded not guilty to burning a mosque in nearby Escondido. Authorities say he fired at least eight shots in the synagogue before fleeing. Earnest would be eligible for the death penalty or life in prison without parole if convicted of murder that is classified as a hate crime. California Gov. Gavin Newsom in March issued a moratorium on executions while hes in office. Prosecutors said Earnest expressed his intent to harm Jews in an online posting. He also acknowledged using gasoline to spark a blaze that charred a wall of the Escondido mosque and scrawling graffiti praising the gunman who killed 50 people at two New Zealand mosques last month, prosecutors said. Earnest was an accomplished student, athlete and musician whose embrace of white supremacy and anti-Semitism stunned his family and others closest to him. He lived with his parents and made the deans list both semesters last year as a nursing student at Cal State San Marcos. Earnest frequented 8chan, a dark corner of the web where those disaffected by mainstream social media sites often post extremist, racist and violent views. Ive only been lurking here for a year and half, he wrote, yet what Ive learned here is priceless. Its been an honor. Federal hate crime charges were also filed against the gunman who last fall opened fire at Pittsburghs Tree of Life Synagogue, killing 11 worshipers. Authorities in that case said Robert Bowers also expressed hatred of Jews. Bowers, 46, has pleaded not guilty. Lawyers in Dist. Atty. Jackie Laceys office said Thursday they will not retry their perjury and voter fraud case against former Los Angeles City Councilman Richard Alarcon and his wife, bringing an abrupt end to a nine-year legal battle. L.A. County prosecutors charged Alarcon and his wife, Flora Montes de Oca Alarcon, in 2010, accusing the couple of lying about where they lived so that Alarcon could run for a council seat. The Alarcons maintained their innocence, saying they had moved out of their residence temporarily while it underwent a major renovation. A jury found the Alarcons guilty of some of the charges in 2014. Their convictions were later thrown out by the states 2nd District Court of Appeal, which said the judge had issued improper jury instructions. Thursdays decision represented a major reversal for Laceys office, which announced three years ago that prosecutors planned to retry the Alarcons. In a statement, Laceys office said that prosecutors still believe the evidence in the case demonstrates the guilt of both defendants. Advertisement However, given that both defendants satisfactorily completed their sentences, we recognize that the law precludes any additional punishment following a retrial, the statement from the district attorneys office said. Therefore, we have made the decision to not seek a retrial of either defendant in the interest of justice. Alarcon, 65, had originally received a 120-day jail sentence but was placed instead on 51 days of house arrest. His wife received 400 hours of community service and no jail time. Deputy Dist. Atty. Bjorn Dodd announced his office would not retry the couple at a hearing Thursday before Superior Court Judge George Lomeli, who then dismissed the case. After the hearing, Alarcon said he felt completely exonerated in the wake of the prosecutors decision. This case caused me and my family a lot of damage, said Alarcon, who has served on the council and in the state Legislature. So were pleased the case is over, and can recuperate with a normalcy in life that we havent seen for 10 years. Under the Los Angeles City Charter, candidates running for a council seat must reside in the district they seek to represent. Alarcon waged successful campaigns in 2007 and 2009 to represent the councils 7th District in the San Fernando Valley, registering to vote in Panorama City. Prosecutors accused former L.A. Councilman Richard Alarcon and his wife of lying about where they lived. The house in Panorama City that was at the center of the case has been torn down and is slated to become an eight-home subdivision, Alarcon said. (Kent Nishimura / Los Angeles Times) Prosecutors alleged that during that period, Alarcon was actually residing in a larger, nicer home in nearby Sun Valley, outside his district. The Alarcons said they had been living elsewhere but planned to return to the house in Panorama City once home repairs were completed. During the original trial, prosecutors showed the jury plans prepared in 2007 for replacing the Panorama City house with a nine-unit condominium complex. Utility workers told the jury there was no gas used in the house between April 2007 and February 2009, making it impossible to cook, heat the home or take hot showers. The jury also heard from former City Councilwoman Wendy Greuel, who said Alarcon had called her and asked to move the Sun Valley house out of Greuels district and into his own. The Alarcons attorneys said at the time that such redistricting requests are common. And they argued that the project took many years because Alarcon didnt hire a contractor and was doing the repairs himself. Alarcon was originally convicted of three charges of fraudulent voting and one charge of perjury, but he was acquitted on 12 other counts. His wife was convicted of two charges of fraudulent voting and one perjury count. Much has changed since the Alarcon case was filed nearly a decade ago. The 1950 tract house on Nordhoff Street has been demolished; Alarcons wife and a business partner are redeveloping the property into an eight-home subdivision. Alarcon stepped down from the council in 2013 and said he has no interest in exploring elected office. Theres a lot of young talent out there that can carry the torch and fight for justice, he said. This particular case was a case of injustice, and I hope people will take note of the damage that can be caused without a conviction. Shortly after the Alarcon case was filed, another Southern California politician was charged in a similar case. Prosecutors said that then-state Sen. Roderick Wright made it appear he lived in Inglewood in order to run for a state Senate seat in 2008, but that his true residence, or domicile, was in Baldwin Hills. Wright was convicted of perjury and voter fraud and pardoned by Gov. Jerry Brown in 2018. That same year, Brown signed a bill easing the residency rules for state legislators and members of Congress in California. The new law says that a legislators primary address is presumed to be the one listed on his or her voter registration even another home is where the legislators child is enrolled in school, where his or her spouse lives for employment reasons or where the lawmaker rents, receives mail or pays for utilities. david.zahniser@latimes.com Twitter: @DavidZahniser San Francisco City Atty. Dennis Herrera said Wednesday that he is investigating whether a doctor who champions alternative medicine techniques has been illegally excusing children from mandatory vaccinations. The announcement comes as public health officials nationwide scramble to control measles outbreaks and cases surge to levels not seen in more than two decades. Blame has landed heavily on parents who do not vaccinate their children. In 2015, California passed a law forcing parents to immunize their children unless a doctor says there is a medical reason for them not to get their shots. But the number of these medical exemptions has tripled since the law took effect, and some worry that physicians are penning fraudulent exemptions. Children undergoing chemotherapy or who are allergic to a component of a vaccine could be eligible for a medical exemption, experts say, yet there have been reports of medical exemptions being written for more vague reasons. Advertisement Herrera issued a subpoena Wednesday that asks Dr. Kenneth Stoller to turn over health records for patients for whom he approved, denied or considered granting medical exemptions between January 2016 and the present, with any identifying information about the patients redacted. The doctor has 15 days to respond to the request. Stoller graduated from the American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine in 1982 and practices in the Nob Hill neighborhood, according to California medical board records. He is a proponent of using oxygen chambers to cure several conditions. Stoller has been quoted in interviews as saying that he was temporarily paralyzed by a vaccine as a child, and that he sometimes relies on findings from 23AndMe genetic tests to determine whether a child qualifies for an exemption. Herrera said he is investigating whether Stoller violated state nuisance laws by writing medical exemptions for people who do not need them. As a community, we have a responsibility to each other There are children who have serious medical conditions that prevent them from getting vaccinated, Herrera said in a statement. If someone uses a medical exemption they dont qualify for and introduces unvaccinated children into that environment, the kids who legitimately cant get a vaccine and ultimately the general public are the ones in real danger. Stollers attorney, Richard Jaffe, said he is reviewing the subpoena, but does not understand why the city attorney is getting involved in a health issue that should be left to the medical board or public health officials. Ive never seen anything like this before, Jaffe said in an interview. What basis does he have to say that there are any false or fraudulent exemptions? Californias strict vaccination law, known as SB 277, left the decision as to whether a patient qualifies for a medical exemption up to physicians discretion. There are no specific criteria that patients must meet for doctors to grant them an exemption, something specifically carved out during heated deliberations over the law when it was passed. In order to sell the bill, they created this so-called robust exemption, and turns out its not so robust, Jaffe said. Since the law went into effect in 2016, one California physician has been sanctioned for fraudulently writing medical exemptions. Orange County-based Dr. Bob Sears was put on probation last year for excusing a 2-year-old from all vaccines. But the states medical board is still investigating nearly 100 complaints against physicians accused of writing fraudulent exemptions since early 2016. The agency received 41 such complaints last year, and has already received 60 in the first four months of 2019, according to board spokesman Carlos Villatoro. For the most part, Californias strict vaccine laws seem to have worked, experts say. But lawmakers are considering tightening them even further. In the state Capitol, legislators are weighing a bill that would give the state health department final say over whether a child should receive a medical exemption from some or all vaccines required to attend public or private school. The measure is an effort to reduce the number of fraudulent exemptions. In West Virginia, which has a strict vaccination law like Californias, each medical exemption must be vetted by the public health department. The states medical exemption rate is half of Californias. soumya.karlamangla@latimes.com Twitter: @skarlamangla Verlon Jose had long vowed President Trump would build a wall along his tribes 75-mile border with Mexico only over my dead body. But late last month, the Tohono Oodham Nations vice chairman stood at the border and praised a planned wall meant to deter migrants, smugglers and, according to the tribe, federal agents from disturbing its lands. The wall he described was not physical, but virtual : 10 towers up to 140 feet tall, with radar and night vision cameras capable of surveying over several miles and streaming footage around the clock to the Border Patrol. The idea is to reduce the footprint of these guys running around, tearing up our land, Jose said of agents patrolling the reservation. The integrated fixed towers, or IFTs, as the Border Patrol calls them, were approved in March by a unanimous vote of the tribes legislative council, many of them older tribal members. But some younger members oppose the towers, fearing that their elders had sacrificed hard-won sovereignty. Were going to inherit this problem, said Amy Juan, 33. And they worry that instead of reducing the Border Patrols presence, which has grown in their lifetimes , compromising on the virtual wall will lead to more surveillance and physical barriers. The agency has said as much. A spokesman said the Border Patrol has no plans to decrease the number of agents patrolling the reservation after the towers are built. He also said the towers do not eliminate the need for a border wall . But tribal leaders believe the towers could have that effect. "It is our hope the IFTs will decrease the flow of illegal trafficking and thus the need for such a large Border Patrol presence on the nation, said tribal Chairman Edward Manuel. He emphasized that his people remain firmly against a wall. The nation will never support a fortified wall on the border, which would divide our people, devastate the environment and destroy sacred sites, all while failing to halt the flow of migrants and smugglers, he said. The Tohono Oodham Nation reservation once stretched 350 miles from Phoenix to Hermosillo, Mexico. But Mexico never recognized the tribes claims to land. The reservation the U.S. government created in 1917 now covers 2.8 million acres. Half of the tribes 34,000 members live on the reservation, which has its own language, schools, police and a government comprising 11 legislative districts. Two are on the border where the towers will be built: Chukut Kuk to the east, Jose and Juans ancestral home, and Gu Vo to the west. The border here is an expansive basin between mountains the tribe considers sacred. To the east looms the 8,000-foot granite Baboquivari Peak the name means "neck between two heads" in the Tohono Oodham language, and tribal members believe the mountain to be the spiritual home of their creator, litoi. It can take the nations 87 tribal police several hours to respond to 911 calls often related to drug and human smuggling in remote border villages. Some of these ranchers are getting broken into constantly, said tribal Police Chief Elton Begay. Tribal police spend more than half their time assisting federal agents and doing other border-related enforcement, Begay said, and the nation spends $3 million annually on border security. Hundreds of Border Patrol agents and a federally funded team of more than a dozen Native American smuggling trackers called Shadow Wolves patrol the border and reservation. Tribal leaders previously allowed the Border Patrol to install cameras, sensors and portable towers and to build two small, remote bases that it staffs around the clock. Other agents patrol from larger stations and checkpoints on the reservations outskirts. A Border Patrol agent uses a motorcycle to work a stretch of the U.S.-Mexico border in the Tohono O'odham Nation. (Luis Sinco / Los Angeles Times) Border Patrol agents transfel migrants apprehended on the Tohono O'odham Nation for transport to a facility in nearby Tucson. (Luis Sinco / Los Angeles Times) A vehicle barrier cuts across a dry wash along the U.S.-Mexico border in the Tohono O'odham Nation in Arizona. (Luis Sinco / Los Angeles Times) Border Patrol agents look for surveyors markers that show the future location of a surveillance tower in the sprawling Tohono O'odham Nation. (Luis Sinco / Los Angeles Times) Clockwise from top left; a Border Patrol agent on a motorbike searches for migrants a few miles north of the U.S.-Mexico border in the Tohono O'odham Nation; Border Patrol agents transfer migrants apprehended on the Tohono O'odham reservation for transport to a facility in nearby Tucson; agents look for markers showing where the agency plans to install a fixed surveillance tower on the reservation; a vehicle barrier cuts across a dry wash at the border. (Luis Sinco / Los Angeles Times) Last month, Border Patrol agents hopped on motorbikes at the foot of the Baboquivari range to chase migrants before they climbed beyond reach. Smugglers have recently shifted to the remote mountain routes, said agency spokesman Dan Hernandez. Nearby trails through desert grasslands were littered with the remnants of campfires and migrants black water jugs, the color intended to camouflage them in the brush. Later the same day, agents used a helicopter to track 16 migrants who had fanned out across a steep mountainside. The agency has tried for nearly a decade to install towers on the reservation so it can catch smugglers before they reach the mountains, said Hernandez. But residents protested and wrote to tribal leaders, worried the towers would disturb the land. Border Patrol contractors had previously disturbed human remains and damaged saguaro cacti, sacred to the Tohono Oodham. But the Border Patrol continued trying to sway the tribe. Two years ago, the agency released a study that said tower construction wouldnt cause archaeological, environmental or community harm. It held community forums and took tribal members on field trips to inspect smaller tower systems near the reservation. It decreased the number of proposed towers in Gu Vo district and redesigned the towers bases so they didnt extend underground. Border Patrol officials also promised to improve rutted dirt roads leading to the towers and said they would consider adding hardware that would boost cellphone and police radio reception. The greatest camera in the world still makes zero arrests. It cant apprehend somebody. Dan Hernandez, Border Patrol spokesman Drivers stop at a Border Patrol checkpoint on Arizona State Route 86 to the east of the Tohono O'odham Nation in southern Arizona. Luis Sinco / Los Angeles Times During a visit to the border last week, Jose pointed out waist-high fencing. Instead of building tall, impenetrable barriers, as it has in other areas, Border Patrol compromised and erected a vehicle barrier that allows animals such as coyotes, jaguar and javelina hogs to migrate. The land at the border is part of a 60-foot-wide federal easement from the Pacific Ocean to the Rio Grande. Though the easement ensures access, the Border Patrol has negotiated with the Tohono Oodham Nation over road use and fencing. Jose described the newly approved towers, which would be north of the easement, as a similar compromise placating the federal government in hopes it will not build a physical wall. Were only as sovereign as the federal government will allow us to be, Jose said. As the Border Patrol presence on the reservation has grown over the years, tribal members have complained of harassment, including what they call unnecessary stops and questioning. Ranchers have to close gates and repair fences that agents cut. Roads erode after frequent Border Patrol use. Tribal leaders said decreasing agents traffic on the reservation is one of the reasons they agreed to the towers. Jose said he wants agents to stick to the border. But tower critics are also concerned about surveillance. During a tour of one of the proposed tower sites last week, Hernandez said the agency does not plan to pull agents from the reservation once the fixed towers are built. Nor does Border Patrol plan to reduce the hidden cameras, sensors and truck-mounted temporary towers already on the reservation. And, he said, theres still the need for an enhanced border barrier. The greatest camera in the world still makes zero arrests. It cant apprehend somebody, Hernandez said. We still need some infrastructure there, the fence or barrier, to slow them down and the agents to make the apprehensions. Supervisory Border Patrol Agent Rafael Castillo, a former Tohono Oodham police officer who now serves as a tribal liaison, said the towers will allow the agency to see what weve never seen before and compared it to turning on a light in a dark room. We all have that same end goal: to protect the nation, its sovereignty and way of life, he said. The day the tribes leaders voted to approve the towers, many Tohono Oodham were attending an annual tribal run across the border. About a dozen people went to the council meeting, some of whom live on the border and spoke in favor of the towers; others spoke against them, including David Garcia, who urged the leaders to reconsider. He doesnt believe the Border Patrol will stop at the towers. Its just a matter of time before other negotiations come into play, Garcia said. A surveyors marker shows the future location of a Border Patrol surveillance tower in the Tohono O'odham Nation along the U.S.-Mexico border in Arizona. (Luis Sinco / Los Angeles Times) A Border Patrol helicopter flies over the Tohono O'odham Nation, which straddles the U.S.-Mexico border in Arizona. (Luis Sinco / Los Angeles Times) Left, a surveyor's marker shows the future location of a Border Patrol surveillance tower in the Tohono O'odham Nation along the U.S.-Mexico border in Arizona. Right, a Border Patrol helicopter flies over the reservation. (Luis Sinco / Los Angeles Times) The towers could be installed as soon as October, Hernandez said. The Border Patrol has a $145-million contract with Elbit Systems of America, the Fort Worth-based subsidiary of an Israeli company that manufacture towers used in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank. Juan and other tribal activists traveled to Israel two years ago to see the Elbit towers; they heard Palestinians concerns and still worry about their effect, even though the Border Patrols study said that any adverse effects on human health would be negligible. Juan said she knows the importance of border security: Her grandfather was a U.S. customs agent shot and killed in 1986 as he attempted to intercept three drug smugglers fleeing across the reservation to Mexico. A decade later, her other grandfather was robbed at night by a smuggler who entered his bedroom and tried to shoot him through his pillow narrowly missing his head. Juan said that now that the towers have been approved, she hopes the Tohono Oodham will mobilize to monitor their impact: whether sacred sites and wildlife are disturbed, what sort of sounds or radiation the towers emit and any changes in nearby residents health. We all have that same end goal: to protect the nation, its sovereignty and way of life. Rafael Castillo, Supervisory Border Patrol agent Verlon Jose, center, vice chairman of the Tohono O'odham Nation, talks to a tribal member who was attempting to cross north for medical treatment at tribal facilities using a gate in the reservation's border barrier late last month. (Luis Sinco/Los Angeles Times) Late last month, she urged community college students on the reservation to help. Speaking to a class in an indigenous borderlands program, she explained where the towers are planned and asked how many of the 20 students have family living on the border. Several raised their hands. The whole border area is going to change, she said. Arizona ranchers who supported Trump wall now have doubts about border plans As she spoke, across the reservation, tribal leaders were meeting contractors hoping to build roads to the towers. Thailands Election Commission on Wednesday announced the final results of the March 24 general election the first since a military coup in 2014 that gave no party an absolute majority and likely will prompt legal challenges. The commission distributed 150 party list seats in the 500-member House of Representatives under a complicated formula related to each partys nationwide popular vote total. Twenty-six parties were granted seats, 14 of them one apiece, while one seat was held open pending a re-vote in one constituency where the winning candidate was disqualified. The commissions failure to clearly explain its formula had led to suspicions it might fiddle with the total. It has already been heavily criticized for releasing delayed and confusing preliminary vote totals, and was accused of tilting in favor of the military-backed Palang Pracharath party. Palang Pracharath was awarded 18 party list seats Wednesday, while the rival Pheu Thai party associated with fugitive former Prime Minster Thaksin Shinawatra received none. Advertisement On Tuesday, each party was allocated its share of the 350 constituency seats. Pheu Thai topped the field by winning 136 constituencies, while Palang Pracharath was second with 97 seats, though it received the most popular votes. Neither party received a majority, and both are attempting to put together coalitions with smaller parties to form a government. The explanation of the party list formula released by the Election Commission before the polls, as generally understood, would have denied seats to many of the smaller parties awarded them Wednesday. The formula as applied Wednesday instead benefited them, at the apparent expense of parties allied with Pheu Thai. Pheu Thai issued a statement saying the Election Commission deliberately intended to commit wrongdoing and misused its power, violating the constitution and the law. The party will later take legal measures in every aspect against the EC. The Future Forward Party, which shares Pheu Thais anti-military stance, has agreed to join it in a coalition and ranks third in seats. It also complained about the Election Commissions actions, which lowered its seat total to 80 from a projected 87. Party Secretary-General Piyabutr Saengkanokkul called the commissions calculations absurd. Prayuth Chan-ocha, who as army commander staged the 2014 coup and since then has served as prime minister, is Palang Pracharaths candidate to continue in that position. Prayuth should easily be able to return to office because the prime minister will be selected by a joint vote of the lower house and the appointed Senate, which represents conservative interests and essentially will be chosen by the military junta. But he will have a hard time if his foes control the lower house. Prayuths legal adviser has said he expects a new government to be seated by early June. Thailand has been under military rule since 2014, when the military ousted a government led by Pheu Thai. The party is the main vehicle for supporters of Thaksin, a billionaire who became prime minister in 2001 with populist policies that won him support among the less well-off rural majority. His popularity threatened the influence of Thailands traditional ruling class, led by the military and conservative royalists. He was ousted by an earlier 2006 coup amid accusations of corruption and abuse of power and went into exile to avoid going to prison on a conflict of interest conviction. The coup set off a long and sometimes violent battle for power between his supporters and opponents, and 2014s military takeover ousted a government formed by his sister, Yingluck Shinawatra. The military regime that took power instituted changes in the constitution and election law to try to prevent a comeback by Thaksins loyalists. The party list system was established to benefit medium-size parties unable to win many seats in head-to-head constituency races, but with a large number of votes nationwide, while parties winning many constituency seats had a cap on the number of party list seats they could be awarded. The Election Commission has already said the allocations may change anytime in the year after the vote, if winners or their parties are disqualified and new polls must be held. Copyright 2019 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. The European Union on Thursday urged Iran to respect the international agreement curbing the Islamic Republics nuclear ambitions, and added that the bloc aims to continue trading with the country despite U.S. sanctions. The EU and major European powers Britain, France and Germany also said that they note with great concern the statement made by Iran concerning its commitments to the nuclear deal, stressing that they reject any ultimatums coming from Tehran. The joint statement came as the bloc struggles to preserve the 2015 nuclear deal with Iran, a day after a new deadline from Tehran on finding a solution to make up for last years unilateral U.S. withdrawal from the accord and re-imposed U.S. sanctions on Iran. We remain fully committed to the preservation and full implementation of the deal, endorsed by the U.N. Security Council, said the EU statement. Advertisement The Trump administration pulled America out of the 2015 deal a year ago, saying it does nothing to stop Iran from developing missiles or destabilizing the Middle East. The Europeans insist that the pact is an important pillar of regional and global security and was never meant to address those other issues. Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said in a televised address Wednesday that signatories to the deal now have 60 days to come up with a plan to shield his country already laboring under economic hardship from the sanctions imposed by President Donald Trump. As the sanctions bite, domestic pressure is increasing on Rouhani to demonstrate that Iran can still benefit from an agreement based on providing it with economic opportunities in exchange for limiting nuclear development. Iran must remain in this agreement and we must do everything we can to ensure that it stays in, French President Emmanuel Macron told reporters at an EU summit in Romania, where leaders were to discuss the standoff. Amid the heated rhetoric from Tehran and Washington, Macron urged the agreements signatories not to get caught up in any escalation and to jointly watch over our collective security. In their statement, the EU powers said they regret the re-imposition of sanctions by the U.S. and remain determined to continue pursuing efforts to enable the continuation of legitimate trade with Iran. Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zaris said Thursday the U.S. has bullied Europe and the rest of the world with its Iran policy. Instead of demanding that Iran unilaterally abide by a multilateral accord, EU should uphold obligations - incl normalization of economic ties, he wrote on Twitter. The Europeans have set up a complicated barter-type system to skirt direct financial transactions with Iran and so evade possible U.S. sanctions. The workaround, dubbed INSTEX, is not yet operational as Iran has not completed its part of the scheme. The bloc said it plans to push ahead with the operationalization of the special purpose vehicle INSTEX. The EU has also introduced a so-called blocking statute protecting European companies from the effects of U.S. sanctions, but many international corporations do more business in the United States than in Iran and have already severed ties there rather than risk running afoul of Washington. In a message implicitly directed at the U.S. administration, the EU powers said we call on countries not party to the (deal) to refrain from taking any actions that impede the remaining parties ability to fully perform their commitments. Despite the heated rhetoric, the Europeans insist that only the International Atomic Energy Agency can judge whether Iran remains in compliance with the nuclear agreement. More than a dozen reports have shown that Tehran is respecting it so far. A new report is due at the end of May. So far we have seen Iran fully compliant with all its nuclear-related commitments, EU foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini said at the summit. The deal, she said, is a matter of security for us and for the entire world. The crisis with Iran comes at a sensitive moment in the wider Middle East. On Sunday, the White House said it dispatched the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln and B-52 bombers to the Persian Gulf over what it described as a new threat from Iran. Israel, which has conducted pre-emptive bombings of nuclear facilities in Iraq and Syria, has vowed to never allow Iran to obtain an atomic weapon. The USS Abraham Lincoln on Thursday passed through the Suez Canal on its way to the Persian Gulf, according to Mohab Mameesh, the canals authority chief. The state MENA news agency said the U.S. defense attache in Cairo, Gen. Ralph Groover, traveled to the Suez Canal area to check on the status of the U.S. warship. Also on Thursday, the official IRNA news agency said Britains Director General for Political Affairs Richard Moore met with Iranian officials in Tehran. The report said he had useful talks with the Iranian side on issues such as regional security and bilateral relations. It did not elaborate. ___ Associated Press writers David Rising in Berlin and Noha ElHennawy in Cairo contributed to this report. Copyright 2019 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. The government in eastern Libya allied with forces attacking the capital does not want to rule the country by force, its foreign minister said Thursday. The Benghazi-based government is allied with Field Marshal Khalifa Hifters self-styled Libyan National Army, which controls most of eastern and southern Libya and launched an offensive in Tripoli, in the west, last month. Hifters forces are battling militias loosely allied with a weak, U.N.-recognized government there. We want to put an end to the crisis, the war and divisions, Abdulhadi Lahweej told The Associated Press in Paris, where he was meeting with members of parliament, officials at the foreign and defense ministries, and business representatives. Our goal is not to rule or to establish a military government. We want a civil state based on institutions and human rights. We want a government that the Libyan people choose and we will approve of whatever the people choose, he said. Advertisement Hifters opponents view him as an aspiring strongman in the mold of Moammar Gadhafi, whose overthrow in a 2011 NATO-backed uprising plunged the country into chaos. Fayez Sarraj, the head of the Tripoli-based government, was also in Paris this week, where he met with President Emmanuel Macron as part of a swing through European capitals aimed at building support for his embattled government. In an interview with France 24, Sarraj said Hifters offensive was a coup that should be condemned internationally as an attempt to take power by weapons, by force. He added, however, that he he was prepared to resume a U.N.-brokered peace process aimed at unifying the country. He also claimed to have reduced the number of armed groups in Tripoli from 115 to no more than five, all of which he said were integrated into the security forces. Libya has been split between rival authorities in east and west since 2014, with each side backed by various militias. Hifters forces have battled Islamic extremists and other rival factions across eastern Libya, and recently made inroads in the south. He presents himself as a strong hand that can restore stability after years of chaos, which have transformed Libya into a haven for armed groups and a major conduit for migrants bound for Europe. In clear and simple words, we do not want to rule the Libyan people, Lahweej said. We only want to bring back the state. We want to bring security and stability. We want to control borders. We want Libya not to be a place for terrorists or a hub for migration and human trafficking. ___ Associated Press writers Noha ElHennawy and Joseph Krauss in Cairo contributed. Copyright 2019 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Juan de Leon Gutierrez told his mother he was calling from a warehouse in Mexico, hidden by a human smuggler who had been paid to take the teenager into the United States. He told me he had something of a headache, perhaps because he was hungry and had not been able to sleep, said his mother, Transito Gutierrez de Leon. The 16-year-old died on April 30 after officials at a Texas youth detention facility noticed he was sick, becoming the third Guatemalan child to die in U.S. custody since December. The death has heightened scrutiny of the U.S. governments ability to adequately care for the surge in migrant families and children crossing the border in recent months. The two earlier deaths of children aged 7 and 8 had already prompted border authorities to change practices to ensure that sick immigrants were getting the proper medical care. Advertisement Almost a week after the teenagers death, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has not said why he was first taken to the hospital and released, only to return one day later. Evelyn Stauffer, an HHS spokeswoman, declined to provide more information Wednesday. Juan had a rare condition known as Potts puffy tumor, according to the Nueces County medical examiner in Corpus Christi, citing information from a childrens hospital in Corpus Christi, where he was in intensive care for several days before his death. Despite the name, the condition is not the same as a cancerous tumor. The name refers to the swelling that occurs on a patients forehead caused by an infection in the frontal bone. The condition is rare, and while usually treatable with antibiotics, it can require surgery. Two pediatricians told The Associated Press that the condition is often caused by severe sinus infection, which can lead to bacteria building up in a persons head and spreading. An unchecked head injury can also lead to bacteria spreading. Headaches are a common symptom as well as vomiting and fever. Its unclear when Juan first got sick. Transito Gutierrez de Leon said this week that her son had never had any serious illnesses beyond colds or an occasional cough, which were treated with remedies from the land, the only thing we have. Gutierrez said when her son called her, using the smugglers cellphone, he told her he had a kind of headache. She said he told her he hadnt eaten anything or had water that day. She doesnt remember what date the conversation occurred. The last time we talked he told me he hoped God would help us with salt or corn, or perhaps beans for us, she said. Juan was from Camotan, one of the poorest, most arid parts of Guatemala in whats known as the dry corridor, where there has been a prolonged drought for nearly two years. According to Guatemalas foreign ministry, the teenager entered the U.S. near El Paso on April 19 and moved to a shelter in Brownsville the next day. An official who was not authorized to disclose information about the case said Juan was taken to Casa Padre, a facility operated by the Texas nonprofit Southwest Key that holds up to 1,400 people in a converted Walmart. U.S. Health and Human Services said in a statement last week that the teenager became noticeably ill on the morning of April 21, with symptoms that included fever, chills, and a headache. He was taken to a hospital emergency department that morning and released. When the teens health did not improve, Juan was taken by ambulance to another hospital emergency room. He was transferred later that day to Driscoll Childrens Hospital in Corpus Christi, roughly 160 miles (257 kilometers) from Brownsville. The Guatemalan foreign ministry said Juan had undergone surgery to stabilize the pressure inside the area of his head and received intensive therapy with 24-hour monitoring. Dr. Katherine Ratzan Peeler, a pediatrician affiliated with the advocacy group Physicians for Human Rights, called on the U.S. government to release more information about how it handled Juans case. Releasing the teen at first from the emergency room may not have been a mistake depending on his symptoms at the time and what treatment or follow-up steps he was given, Peeler said. Without further information, it would be impossible to evaluate whether his caregivers missed warning signs. That happens even in the best childrens hospitals in the country, where we send someone home and they come back the next day and they have something pretty bad where you couldnt just quite tell the first time around, she said. Dr. Mobeen Rathore, a pediatrician based in Jacksonville, Florida, and spokesperson for American Academy of Pediatrics, said Juans death was further evidence that detaining immigrant children was a health risk under any circumstances. If a child was in a home and not in a detention center with 1,400 kids ... there would be more attention paid to this, whether by a parent or a guardian or whoever, Rathore said. The Guatemalan consulate in McAllen, Texas, said it is preparing to return Juans body to his home. An official at the consulate said the Guatemalan government would cover all funeral costs involved. Transito Gutierrez de Leon said her family had no money, not even to take the bus to the capital of Guatemala City where an airplane carrying his body will likely arrive. ___ Perez reported from Guatemala City. Copyright 2019 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. The House Judiciary Committee voted Wednesday to hold Attorney General William Barr in contempt of Congress, escalating the Democrats extraordinary legal battle with the Trump administration over access to special counsel Robert Muellers Trump-Russia report. The vote capped a day of ever-deepening dispute between congressional Democrats and President Donald Trump, who for the first time invoked the principle of executive privilege, claiming the right to block lawmakers from the full report on Muellers probe of Russian interference to help Trump in the 2016 election. Committee Chairman Jerrold Nadler of New York declared the action by Trumps Justice Department a clear new sign of the presidents blanket defiance of Congress constitutional rights to conduct oversight. We did not relish doing this, but we have no choice, Nadler said after the vote. Advertisement The White Houses blockade, he said, is an attack on the ability of the American people to know what the executive branch is doing. He said, This cannot be. But Justice Department spokeswoman Kerri Kupec said it was disappointing that members of Congress have chosen to engage in such inappropriate political theatrics. Barr made extraordinary efforts to provide Congress and the public with information about Muellers work, she said. White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders said neither the White House nor Barr will comply with Chairman Nadlers unlawful and reckless demands. Late Wednesday the chairman of the House Intelligence Committee issued his own subpoena to the Justice Department for the full Mueller report, as the confrontation intensifies. Democratic Rep. Adam Schiff of California, whose committee had previously requested the documents, said he has no choice but to compel the departments compliance. He warned that if it continues to ignore or rejects our requests, the panel could take legal action. Kupec declined to comment. Though the White House initially hesitated on invoking privilege, Trump told his staff and political advisers in recent weeks to refuse to cooperate with Democrats, believing the partys goal was simply to damage him politically going into his re-election campaign. The coming legal battle could stretch to 2020, and the White House is aiming to tie up congressional probes until Election Day. Executive privilege is the presidents power to keep information from the courts, Congress and the public to protect the confidentiality of the Oval Office decision-making process. The presidents decision was weeks in the making, the next inevitable escalation between the White House and Congress over a number of probes. The White House has rejected all efforts to probe Trumps business dealings or tax returns as well as the West Wings security clearance procedure. The committee voted along party lines, 24-16, to recommend the full House hold Barr in contempt, but only after some five hours of heated and, at times, emotional testimony. Democrats made their case that Congress was at a historic juncture as it confronts what they consider Trumps stonewalling of lawmakers ability to conduct oversight of the administration. Republicans portrayed the majority as angry and lashing out at Barr after the special counsel did not find that Trump colluded with Russia to swing the 2016 election. Said Democrat Sheila Jackson Lee of Texas: The president now seeks to take a wrecking ball to the Constitution of the United States. And Rep. Cedric Richmond of Louisiana said the road ahead may be messy but Democrats must fight to protect our democracy. Other Democrats called the standoff a serious and grave moment. However, the panels top Republican, Doug Collins of Georgia, said Democrats were manufacturing a crisis and rushing the process to sully Bill Barrs good name. Rep. Matt Gaetz of Florida, a Trump ally, said the Democrats were trying to delegitimize the president and biding time before they try to impeach him. Get over it, Gaetz said. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has said the next step will be consideration by the full House. Nadler said that will happen soon. If approved by the House, where the Democrats hold a solid majority, the contempt resolution would almost certainly move to an unusual, and potentially protracted, multi-pronged court battle with the Trump administration. The contempt finding could be referred to the U.S. attorney for the District of Columbia, a Justice Department official who would be likely to defend rather than oppose Barr. Democratic House leaders could also file a lawsuit, though the case could take months or even years to resolve. Some committee members have suggested they also could fine Barr as he withholds information. Nadler said Wednesday the Trump administrations refusal to provide the special counsels full Russia report to Congress presents a constitutional crisis. In a letter Wednesday to Trump, Barr explained that the special counsels files contain millions of pages of classified and unclassified information. He said it was the committees abrupt resort to a contempt vote that has not allowed sufficient time for you to consider fully whether to make a conclusive assertion of executive privilege. Barr told Trump he should assert privilege now, pending a full decision on the matter. Talks with the Justice Department broke down over the committees subpoena for an unredacted version of the report. Barr released a redacted version of Muellers 400-plus-page report to the public last month, but Democrats subpoenaed the full document , along with underlying evidence. The department has rejected that demand, while allowing a few top lawmakers from the House and Senate to view a version with fewer redactions. That version blacks out grand jury information, which needs a judges approval for release, and it doesnt include the reports underlying evidence. Democrats have said they wont view that version until they get broader access. Almost half the reports pages contain some type of redaction including those around the Russian influence campaign, presidential pardons and other topics. Barr has refused to testify in public to the committee after a disagreement over the Democrats demand that he answer questions from a staff attorney in addition to lawmakers. The committee is in talks for Mueller himself to appear May 15, but there is no agreement yet, and Trump has said Mueller should not testify. Nadler also has threatened to hold former White House Counsel Don McGahn in contempt of Congress if he doesnt testify before the committee later this month. Nadler rejected a White House claim that documents McGahn refused to provide despite a subpoena are controlled by the White House and thus McGahn has no legal right to them. Pelosi, who has tamped down calls from her liberal flank to launch impeachment proceedings against Trump, said in a Washington Post interview Wednesday that the president, by obstructing Congress was becoming self-impeachable. Mueller, in his report, said he could not establish a criminal conspiracy between the Trump campaign and Russia, but he did not reach a conclusion on whether Trump obstructed justice. Barr said he and Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein decided there were not grounds to charge Trump with obstruction. Jonathan Lemire reported from New York. Associated Press writer Mike Balsamo in Washington contributed. 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. Stay up to date on the latest news and the local entertainment scene by subscribing to The New Mexican's email lists. COLONIE, N.Y. Christopher McKenna has been named president and chief executive officer of Cap Com Federal Credit Union, succeeding Paula Stopera who has retired. Most recently, McKenna was the organizations executive vice president. Before that he was chief lending officer of its mortgage subsidiary, Homeowners Advantage. The future looks bright and under Chris leadership, we will continue to make service to members and outreach to the community hallmarks of our credit union, said board Chairman Ed Gilligan. We are grateful to Paula for devoting her 39-year career to serving others, while overseeing a period of tremendous growth at Cap Com. We know Chris will lead us forward by reinforcing the importance of superior service. Helping members flourish with a blend of human interaction and technology will continue to be top priorities. McKenna grew up in Peekskill and attended the University at Albany. After graduating, he worked in New York City, then returned to the Capital Region to continue his career. Since 1990, he has been active in financial services. Before coming to Cap Cam, he was half owner in a mortgage company that served credit union members across New York and Florida. McKenna joined Cap Com in 2010, when the credit union acquired his mortgage company. Under his leadership as chief lending officer, Homeowners Advantage has written $2.5 billion in mortgage loans. It is now the fourth largest residential mortgage provider in the Capital Region. In January 2018, McKenna was promoted to executive vice president. Under his leadership in that role, Cap Com implemented its largest technology transformation in 20 years. T The credit unions core system was rebuilt to improve efficiency and position Cap Com to provide new services in the future. This major, year-long undertaking involved virtually every department, and is one of the credit unions notable successes. LATHAM, N.Y. Paula Stopera helped see one of the areas largest financial institutions through several crises such as the 1987 Black Monday stock market crash, the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks and the Great Recession of 2008. The key to not only surviving, but coming out stronger is putting people first and facing each challenge with honesty and transparency, she said. Stopera enjoyed a 39-year career at CAP COM Federal Credit Union including the past 15 as its president and chief executive officer, when the organization grew from one to 11 branches, now numbering more than 140,000 members. I never expected my career to be what it has been, she said. Its been an amazing journey. However, Stopera recently retired and on Thursday she officially handed the firms reins over to new President and CEO Chris McKenna, during a luncheon at The Century House with more than 200 people on hand. We tried to learn from every experience, she said. On the morning of 9/11, she was at a conference of all New York state credit unions, in Albany. People from the United Nations Federal Credit Union stood up and said, We have to go, Stopera said. Some of them couldnt get home so they came to our place to operate remotely. What I always remember is the collaboration between everyone to get to the bottom-line result. Similarly, the financial outlook in 2008 was very uncertain. We were very honest with our staff and members about what we needed to do, Stopera said. We told them, We wont be giving raises, were going to hang on. And we came out stronger and better. Stopera lives and leads with 23 rules she calls Paulas Principles, highlighted by Family comes first, Have a sense of humor, Balance your life, Dont fuel drama and dont be a martyr, and Look for the best in people, not the worst. Without purpose, nothing matters, she said. Strive for the very best in life. Shoot for the stars. Colleagues and co-workers praised her achievements and commitment to the greater Capital Region community. Any time you get people who are bright, compassionate, caring, you get great things, said John M. Shartrand, CAP COM chief investment officer. She would bring that every day, day in and day out, for 39 years. She could be counted on in the big moments of our lives. Sharon Phillips, vice president for organizational development, said, Working with Paula over so many years has been one adventure after another. There was always an opportunity around the corner. There was always a chance to do something new. There was always a way to do something wonderful for our members, for our workers, for the community. In 2003, Stopera established the non-profit CAP COM Cares Foundation, which benefits health and wellness programs; financial literacy and education initiatives; and causes that help underprivileged families. Since its inception, the foundation has donated nearly $4 million and 30,000-plus volunteer hours to better the lives of thousands of Capital Region residents. Last year, Stopera chaired the Capital Region Chamber of Commerce. Paula is about people, but shes about people producing results, Chamber President and CEO Mark Eagan said. Im a better professional and I think our organization is better because of what Paula did to strengthen us these past few years. In retirement, Stopera said she plans to travel and spend a great deal of time with her two grandchildren. Youre going to be in good hands, she told members. Most recently, McKenna was CAP COMs executive vice president. Before that he was chief lending officer of its mortgage subsidiary, Homeowners Advantage. The future looks bright and under Chris leadership, we will continue to make service to members and outreach to the community hallmarks of our credit union, board Chairman Ed Gilligan said. We are grateful to Paula for devoting her 39-year career to serving others, while overseeing a period of tremendous growth at CAP COM. We know Chris will lead us forward by reinforcing the importance of superior service. Helping members flourish with a blend of human interaction and technology will continue to be top priorities. McKenna grew up in Peekskill and attended the University at Albany. After graduating, he worked in New York City, then returned to the Capital Region to continue his career. Since 1990, he has been active in financial services. Before coming to CAP COM, he was half owner in a mortgage company that served credit union members across New York and Florida. McKenna joined CAP COM in 2010, when the credit union acquired his mortgage company. Under his leadership as chief lending officer, Homeowners Advantage has written $2.5 billion in mortgage loans. It is now the fourth largest residential mortgage provider in the Capital Region. In January 2018, McKenna was promoted to executive vice president. Under his leadership in that role, CAP COM implemented its largest technology transformation in 20 years. The credit unions core system was rebuilt to improve efficiency and position CAP COM to provide new services in the future. President Trump is known for tweeting about just about everything. However, it seems when he tweets about the economy, it can have a profound impact. Today, electric truck company Workhorse saw a 200% surge in stock prices after a tweet from Trump. GM Plans to Sell Plant to Workhorse General Motors is in talks with Workhorse to sell its Ohio plant to the electric truck company. This comes after GM announced plans to close the Lordstown, Ohio plant, along with three others in the United States. GM is doing this to free up more cash for the development of its own electric and self-driving cars. Instead of allowing the plant to go used, GM began talking with Workhorse about a possible sale. Tom Colton, the head of investor relations for Workhorse, confirmed the talks were in the preliminary stage. It currently does not know when the plant will open, when jobs would start, or how many people the company will look to employ. Not everyone is excited about the sale though. The United Autoworkers Union has made it known it isnt in favor of the plant being sold. The UAWs position is unequivocal: General Motors should assign a product to the Lordstown facility and continue operating it, the union said in a statement. The UAW filed a federal lawsuit against GM in February to keep the Lordstown plant open. Union representatives hope to push GM to begin building its new vehicles there. Those talks will not commence until July, making it unsure whether Workhorse will be moving there or not (yet). Despite the lawsuit and pushback from the Union, GM does not plan to have a future in Lordstown. It does plan to hire another 450 workers at three other locations in the state of Ohio though, investing $700 million into its Ohio plants. Mike DeWine, the Governor of Ohio, said the news from GM is still good for the three cities with plants (Parma, Moraine, Toledo). If Workhorse buys the plant, DeWine said, Ohio could still expect hundreds of jobs to be added in Lordstown. Workhorse Stock Prices Soar Workhorse is a growing company and would be a great addition to Ohio. The company is currently working on switching from traditional vans and trucks to electric. Later this year, it will begin production on electric delivery vans for the United Parcel Service (UPS). Based on media reports and comments from the US Postal Service, testing for the next generation vehicle is done and a request for production is due later this year, Cowen analyst Jeffrey Osborne stated. After Trump tweeted about the potential talks to move Workhorse to the Ohio plant, shares surged more than 214 percent. The company opened on Wednesday at 82 cents and closed the day at $2.65. The daily volume of shares increased as well. On average, it has been at 345,127 daily shares over the past month. By the end of the trading day, the volume was up to 45.9 million shares. This potential agreement creates a positive outcome for all parties involved and will help solidify the leadership of Workhorses role in the EV community, Workhorse CEO Duane Hughes stated in a press release. How Trumps Tweets Have Impacted The Market GREAT NEWS FOR OHIO! Just spoke to Mary Barra, CEO of General Motors, who informed me that, subject to a UAW agreement etc., GM will be selling their beautiful Lordstown Plant to Workhorse, where they plan to build Electric Trucks. GM will also be spending $700,000,000 in Ohio Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) May 8, 2019 This isnt the first time a tweet from President Trump has had an impact on the stock market. In fact, it happens so often, Bloomberg created an interactive graph to see what tweets were sent out when the DOW goes up or down. There are few things that have been traditional about Trumps presidency, but his presence on Twitter makes it doubly so. If youre investing, it may be a good idea to keep an eye on POTUS tweets. Readers, what do you think about GMs decision to sell its Ohio plant and the Workhorse surge? Read More Joy of poetry Poetry MFA Joy Priest kept getting amazing offers; she turned down all but 1 Joy Priest will graduate in May with an MFA in poetry. She has accepted a fellowship at the Fine Arts Work Center in Provincetown, Massachusetts. The first notice came from the Ph.D. program in English at the University of Wisconsin. Then came an offer from the University of Houston. Then Florida State. After that, she got a call from one of the most prestigious creative writing fellowships in the country, the Wallace Stegner Fellowship at Stanford. Joy Priest turned them all down and accepted a highly coveted seven-month fellowship at the Fine Arts Work Center in Provincetown, Massachusetts, instead. For Priest, who finishes her MFA in poetry at the University of South Carolina this May, the spring semester has been one incredible offer after another, an ongoing affirmation of the Louisville, Kentucky, natives decision to move to Columbia in 2016. She can thank National Book Award-winning poet and endowed professor of Southern literature Nikky Finney for that much. Priests work stands on its own her poetry has been included in Best New Poets twice, in 2014 and 2016, and she has high hopes for her recently finished book-length thesis, Horsepower but it was Finney who encouraged her to pick up roots. The two met in 2011 at the University of Kentucky, Finneys previous academic post, when Priest interviewed the poet and professor for the student newspaper upon the announcement that Finney had won the National Book Award. Inspired, she took a couple of Finneys creative writing workshops, worked on her craft, logged the hours. Gradually, she earned Finneys respect. Nikky is a very humble person, but she has a certain presence that can seem intimidating, says Priest. Shes also old school about the work. She is not going to leap with praise. You have to earn it. She wants to see that you are doing the work. A few years later, Priest was still doing the work, but like a lot of 20-somethings, she was also working odd jobs, trying to figure out her path. She began one MFA program but was unhappy. Then she called Finney, who suggested she apply to the MFA program at South Carolina. Of course, I take credit for the writing, but there is something to be said for curating an application, understanding the process, and my dream team definitely helped me with that. Poetry MFA Joy Priest For Priest, who identifies as a Southern writer, South Carolina made sense. So did working with Finney, who understood the themes Priest was already exploring in her work. I write about place, she says. I write about the South not as a physical location on the map but also as a sort of historical phenomenon. Most of the poems in my thesis feature a black girl speaker from the South who is trying to escape the conditions in which she grew up. After beginning the three-year MFA program, her friendship with Finney grew Nikky might be the only person in my life who can see the entire picture, who can fill in the spaces that my book leaves open, says Priest but she quickly discovered a much larger family of poets and professors on the South Carolina campus. Im part of a really amazing cohort, theres four of us, and I feel so privileged to be writing with each of them, she says. These types of programs can be very competitive and cutthroat, but its not like that here. What allowed me to have such a great experience was the environment that the faculty cultivates. She also credits her thesis committee, which was directed by Finney but also included assistant professor of creative writing Samuel Amadon, who helped guide her through the various application processes, and associate professor of English Michael Dowdy, who worked with her on the critical writing samples that accompanied her many fellowship and Ph.D. applications. I really had a team behind me Nikky, Sam and Michael. I asked for their advice and listened, says Priest. Of course, I take credit for the writing, but there is something to be said for curating an application, understanding the process, and my dream team definitely helped me with that. Her team also helped her weigh her options as the offers and acceptance letters started to roll in, though ultimately, she had to go with her gut which told her to turn down the Stegner, despite its prestige, and to delay her pursuit of the Ph.D., at least for the next year. The Fine Arts Work Center recognizes you as a professional artist. They give you an apartment and a stipend, and then seven months without any distractions just to write, says Priest, who intends to reapply to the University of Houston for fall 2020. To say no to that would be to say no to the idea that I am an artist. This is what we dream about, just the time and the space to write. I had to say yes to that before I go back to being a graduate student. Share this Story! Let friends in your social network know what you are reading about When it comes to the effectiveness of nanotherapeutic vaccines, shape matters. A Northwestern University team investigated a set of spherical nucleic acids (SNAs) for their potential to stimulate cancer-quelling immune responses. After comparing a series of compositionally identical yet structurally different vaccines by testing them on multiple animal models, the researchers found the structure of SNAs in one vaccine dramatically outperformed the others, which ranged from ineffective to nearly curative. Vaccines with the superior structure completely eliminated tumors in 30% of animals and improved their overall survival from cancer. The vaccine also protected the animals from reemerging tumors. "This observation shows the importance of chemical structure and three-dimensional presentation of active components in the design of vaccines," said Northwestern's Chad A. Mirkin, who co-led the study. "This information will help us rationally design SNA vaccines that can raise the strongest possible anti-cancer immune responses. Having a clear design strategy also will accelerate the development of vaccines for many types of cancer and potentially other diseases." The study will be published online during the week of May 6 in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. Mirkin is the George B. Rathmann Professor of Chemistry in Northwestern's Weinberg College of Arts and Sciences and director of the International Institute for Nanotechnology. He co-led the study with Bin Zhang, professor of medicine and microbiology-immunology at the Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, and Andrew Lee, research assistant professor of chemical and biological engineering in Northwestern's McCormick School of Engineering. advertisement Cancer immunotherapies artificially stimulate the patient's immune system to find and attack the disease. So far, new immunotherapies, called checkpoint inhibitors, act by unlocking immune responses that are suppressed by tumors. But they are effective only in certain types of cancer and in a fraction of patients. "Another potentially more powerful approach is to raise and boost immune responses with therapeutic vaccines," Lee said. "This approach, however, has needed breakthroughs in vaccine design to unlock its potential in treating cancer in the clinic." The development of SNAs could be the breakthrough for which people have been waiting. Invented by Mirkin, SNAs are synthetic globular -- rather than linear -- forms of DNA and RNA that surround a nanoparticle core. Roughly 50 nanometers in diameter, the tiny structures possess the ability to enter cells, including immune cells, for targeted treatment delivery. In the study, the Northwestern team compared SNAs that have different structures but the same peptides, DNA and other general components. All vaccines included an antigen (a substance that is recognized and targeted by an immune response) and an adjuvant (a substance that enhances the body's immune response to the antigen). In this case, the DNA is the adjuvant, and the peptide is the antigen. The only thing that changed in each vaccine was the position of the peptide antigen, which was either housed in the core of the SNA, interspersed with the DNA or attached to the DNA. These changes led to major differences in how the immune system recognized and processed molecular cues, ultimately affecting the quality of the immune response generated by the vaccine. In the study, the peptide antigen interspersed with the DNA performed best. "The study shows that SNAs and our ability to refine SNA structures can dramatically improve the anti-tumor immune responses," Zhang said. "This shows promise in our ability to improve the performance of vaccines and eventually use them in patient care." Mirkin is a member of the Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University and has appointments in the Feinberg School of Medicine and McCormick School of Engineering. The study was supported by the National Cancer Institute of the National Institutes of Health (award number U54CA199091), the Office of Naval Research (award number N00014-15-0043), the Prostate Cancer Foundation, the Movember Foundation (award number 17CHAL08), the Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University and the Vannevar Bush Faculty Fellowship program. A new University of Michigan study provides the first evidence of transitive inference, the ability to use known relationships to infer unknown relationships, in a nonvertebrate animal: the lowly paper wasp. For millennia, transitive inference was considered a hallmark of human deductive powers, a form of logical reasoning used to make inferences: If A is greater than B, and B is greater than C, then A is greater than C. But in recent decades, vertebrate animals including monkeys, birds and fish have demonstrated the ability to use transitive inference. The only published study that assessed TI in invertebrates found that honeybees weren't up to the task. One possible explanation for that result is that the small nervous system of honeybees imposes cognitive constraints that prevent those insects from conducting transitive inference. Paper wasps have a nervous system roughly the same size -- about one million neurons -- as honeybees, but they exhibit a type complex social behavior not seen in honeybee colonies. University of Michigan evolutionary biologist Elizabeth Tibbetts wondered if paper wasps' social skills could enable them to succeed where honeybees had failed. To find out, Tibbetts and her colleagues tested whether two common species of paper wasp, Polistes dominula and Polistes metricus, could solve a transitive inference problem. The team's findings are scheduled for online publication May 8 in the journal Biology Letters. advertisement "This study adds to a growing body of evidence that the miniature nervous systems of insects do not limit sophisticated behaviors," said Tibbetts, a professor in the Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology. "We're not saying that wasps used logical deduction to solve this problem, but they seem to use known relationships to make inferences about unknown relationships," Tibbetts said. "Our findings suggest that the capacity for complex behavior may be shaped by the social environment in which behaviors are beneficial, rather than being strictly limited by brain size." To test for TI, Tibbetts and her colleagues first collected paper wasp queens from several locations around Ann Arbor, Michigan. In the laboratory, individual wasps were trained to discriminate between pairs of colors called premise pairs. One color in each pair was associated with a mild electric shock, and the other was not. "I was really surprised how quickly and accurately wasps learned the premise pairs," said Tibbetts, who has studied the behavior of paper wasps for 20 years. advertisement Later, the wasps were presented with paired colors that were unfamiliar to them, and they had to choose between the colors. The wasps were able to organize information into an implicit hierarchy and used transitive inference to choose between novel pairs, Tibbetts said. "I thought wasps might get confused, just like bees," she said. "But they had no trouble figuring out that a particular color was safe in some situations and not safe in other situations." So, why do wasps and honeybees -- which both possess brains smaller than a grain of rice -- perform so differently on transitive inference tests? One possibility is that different types of cognitive abilities are favored in bees and wasps because they display different social behaviors. A honeybee colony has a single queen and multiple equally ranked female workers. In contrast, paper wasp colonies have several reproductive females known as foundresses. The foundresses compete with their rivals and form linear dominance hierarchies. A wasp's rank in the hierarchy determines shares of reproduction, work and food. Transitive inference could allow wasps to rapidly make deductions about novel social relationships. That same skill set may enable female paper wasps to spontaneously organize information during transitive inference tests, the researchers hypothesize. For millennia, transitive inference was regarded as a hallmark of human cognition and was thought to be based on logical deduction. More recently, some researchers have questioned whether TI requires higher-order reasoning or can be solved with simpler rules. The study by Tibbetts and her colleagues illustrates that paper wasps can build and manipulate an implicit hierarchy. But it makes no claims about the precise mechanisms that underlie this ability. In previous studies, Tibbetts and her colleagues showed that paper wasps recognize individuals of their species by variations in their facial markings and that they behave more aggressively toward wasps with unfamiliar faces. The researchers have also demonstrated that paper wasps have surprisingly long memories and base their behavior on what they remember of previous social interactions with other wasps. The other authors of the new Biology Letters paper -- Jorge Agudelo, Sohini Pandit and Jessica Riojas -- are undergraduates. The work was supported by the National Science Foundation and the Doris Duke Conservation Scholars Program at the University of Michigan, funded by the Doris Duke Charitable Foundation. All experiments complied with the laws of the United States and international ethical standards. Advancements in zero-emission fuel cells could make the technology cheap enough to replace traditional gasoline engines in vehicles, according to researchers at the University of Waterloo. The researchers have developed a new fuel cell that lasts at least 10 times longer than current technology, an improvement that would make them economically practical, if mass-produced, to power vehicles with electricity. "With our design approach, the cost could be comparable or even cheaper than gasoline engines," said Xianguo Li, director of the Fuel Cell and Green Energy Lab at Waterloo. "The future is very bright. This is clean energy that could boom." Researchers initially concentrated on hybrid vehicles, which now have gas engines as well as batteries due to issues involving limited driving range and long charging times. Existing fuel cells could theoretically replace those gas engines, which power generators to recharge batteries while hybrid vehicles are in operation, but are impractical because they are too expensive. The researchers solved that problem with a design that makes fuel cells far more durable by delivering a constant, rather than fluctuating, amount of electricity. That means the cells, which produce electricity from the chemical reaction when hydrogen and oxygen are combined to make water, can be far simpler and therefore far cheaper. "We have found a way to lower costs and still satisfy durability and performance expectations," said Li, a professor of mechanical and mechatronics engineering. "We're meeting economic targets while providing zero emissions for a transportation application." Researchers hope the introduction of fuel cells in hybrid vehicles will lead to mass production and lower unit costs. That could pave the way for the replacement of both batteries and gas engines entirely by providing an affordable, safe, dependable, clean source of electrical power. "This is a good first step, a transition to what could be the answer to the internal combustion engine and the enormous environmental harm it does," said Li. Li collaborated with lead researcher Hongtao Zhang, a former post-doctoral fellow, Waterloo mathematics professor Xinzhi Liu and Jinyue Yan, an energy expert and professor in Sweden. A paper on their work, Enhancing fuel cell durability for fuel cell plug-in hybrid electric vehicles through strategic power management, appears in the journal Applied Energy. Water fleas -- or Daphnia -- ensure their survival by reacting to a signal substance of their predators (fish) with flight. The zoologist Meike Anika Hahn from Professor Dr Eric von Elert's research group at the University of Cologne's Institute of Zoology has identified this chemical messenger substance, which the fish releases into the water of lakes. When the water flea detects the substance '5-cyprinol sulfate' -- a bile salt from the fish -- it leaves the upper water layers and descends vertically into darker regions. The fish are unable to visually detect their prey there during daytime. This connection between the signal of the predator and the behaviour of its prey has now been published in the scientific journal eLife under the title '5-cyprinol sulfate, a bile salt from fish, induces diel vertical migration in Daphnia'. Eric von Elert explains how crucial this communication between fish and planktonic crustacean is to a healthy water environment: 'The water flea is an important link in the lake's ecosystem because it mainly feeds on the constantly growing microalgae. It is crucial for the lake that the Daphnia remain in their natural habitat -- the surface of the water -- and do not spend the day in the depths where they cannot find any algae. Therefore, it is important to know exactly which signal the water flea reacts to.' Daphnia migrate up to 60 metres up and down the water column every day. The bile salt in question is vital for the metabolism of fish, which is why, from an evolutionary perspective, they cannot stop releasing it into the water. Now that the substance has been identified, follow-up studies can be carried out to explore whether the fish are actually solely responsible for high concentrations of 5-cyprinol sulphate. 'It is possible that the substance also comes from contamination from wastewater facilities,' says Professor von Elert. In aquatic systems such as lakes, an enormous number of chemical reactions and interactions take place that the scientists need to understand the basics of. Especially if an intact system is disturbed from the outside, this can have serious consequences. 'Ultimately, we want to find out how we might be able to restore the biological balance by adding specific natural ingredients', von Elert concludes. A new, open-road test of adaptive cruise control demonstrated that the feature, designed to make driving easier by continuously adjusting a vehicle's speed in response to the car ahead, doesn't yet solve the problem of phantom traffic jams. Because human drivers are responsible for the creation of this type of jam -- which occurs without an obvious cause -- the widespread use of these types of driver-assist technologies holds promise to eliminate these jams, if designed appropriately. "Our experiments show that today's driver-assist systems are not yet able to overcome the worst driving behaviors of humans that lead to extremely frustrating traffic jams," said Dan Work, associate professor of civil and environmental engineering at Vanderbilt University, who helped lead the research. The details of the multi-university team's latest experiments on ACC vehicles were presented in April at Cyber-Physical Systems and Internet-of-Things Week and were released more broadly on May 7. Their work builds on earlier research that showed adding even a small fraction of specially designed autonomous vehicles could eliminate phantom jams by keeping an optimal separation between cars and avoiding sudden stops. As vehicles with driver-assist systems such as adaptive cruise control become more prevalent, it is critical to understand how they influence traffic, said Work. While they potentially react faster and more gracefully to vehicles ahead than humans can, their sensors are not able to see beyond the vehicle immediately in front. That limits their ability to outperform human drivers, who anticipate changes by looking multiple vehicles ahead. Work and his collaborators tested seven different cars from two manufacturers on a remote, rural roadway in Arizona. They simulated various driving conditions with a pace car changing its speed, followed by a vehicle using adaptive cruise control. The team measured how quickly and aggressively the ACC system responded to the pace car speed changes. They drove the cars at varying speeds over more than 1,000 miles of testing, with the results always the same. "In each test, the following vehicle slowed down more than the leader, which is a signature of the creation of phantom traffic jams," said Benjamin Seibold, associate professor of mathematics at Temple University and another lead researcher. In one experiment, the team filled a lane of traffic with seven identical vehicles -- all running the same ACC system -- with a pace vehicle in front. Once all vehicles achieved a cruising speed of 50 miles per hour, the pace vehicle quickly reduced its speed by 6 miles per hour. In a domino effect, each of the following vehicles slowed down more and more dramatically so that, by the seventh car, its speed dropped below the minimum required for the ACC system to operate. Team members said they hope manufacturers ultimately will design vehicle automation systems that make traffic a concern in addition to safety, comfort and fuel efficiency. Sixteen of the 20 best-selling vehicles in America already offer ACC, which demonstrates their potential for impacting traffic decades before vehicles become fully autonomous. They said the next step is to design and demonstrate effective driver-assist features in real freeway traffic, paving the way for the next generation of vehicle automation technologies. Researchers from an international collaboration have succeeded in creating a "protein cage" -- a nanoscale structure that could be used to deliver drugs to specific places of the body -- that can be readily assembled and disassembled but that is also extremely durable, withstanding boiling and other extreme conditions. They did this by exploring geometries not found in nature, but reminiscent of "paradoxical geometries" found in Islamic art. Role-playing gamers -- at least those who played before the digital age -- are aware that there are restrictions governing the shape of dice; try to make a six-sided die by replacing the square faces with triangles and you will be left with something horribly distorted and certainly not fair. This is because there are strict geometrical rules governing the assembly of these so-called isohedra. In nature as well, isohedral structures are found at the nano level. Usually made from many protein subunits and having a hollow interior, these protein cages carry out many important tasks. The most famous examples are viruses where the protein cage acts as a carrier of viral genetic material into host cells. Synthetic biologists, for their part, are interested in making artificial protein cages in the hope of imparting them with useful and novel properties. There are two challenges to achieving this goal. The first is the geometry problem -- some candidate proteins may have great potential utility but are automatically ruled out because they have the wrong shape to assemble into cages. The second problem is complexity -- most protein-protein interactions are mediated via complex networks of weak chemical bonds that are very difficult to engineer from scratch. The new research began at the Heddle Initiative Research Unit at RIKEN in Japan and moved to Malopolska Centre of Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University in Poland. In it researchers found a way to solve both problems. "We were able to replace the complex interactions between proteins with simple 'staples' based on the coordination of single gold atoms." explains Professor Jonathan Heddle, the senior author of the research. "This simplifies the design problem and allows us to imbue the cages with new properties such as assembly and disassembly on demand." The research has also found a way to get around the geometrical problem: "The building blocks of our protein cage are 11-membered rings." says Ali Malay, the first author of the paper, who is currently in the RIKEN Center for Sustainable Resource Science. "Mathematically speaking such shapes should be forbidden from forming symmetrical polyhedra." However, the researchers found that due to inherent flexibility, protein complexes can achieve previously unprecedented constructions based on near-perfect geometrical coincidences. "Previously proteins that were ignored because they had the 'wrong' shape can now be considered." says Malay. The implications of the work are far-reaching. "What we, together with our collaborators have found, is simply the first step," says Heddle, who hopes that the work can be expanded further to produce cages with new structures and new capabilities and also investigated for potential applications particularly in drug delivery. A team led by researchers of the Institute of Cosmos Sciences of the University of Barcelona (ICCUB, UB-IEEC) and the Besancon Astronomical Observatory have found, analysing data from the Gaia satellite, that a severe star formation burst occurred in the Milky Way about 2 to 3 billion years ago. In this process, more than 50 percent of the stars that created the galactic disc may have been born. Their results come from the combination of the distances, colors and magnitude of the stars that were measured by Gaia with models that predict their distribution in our Galaxy. The study has been published in the journal Astronomy & Astrophysics. Just like a flame fades when there is no gas in the cylinder, the rhythm of the stellar formation in the Milky Way, fuelled by the gas that was deposited, should decrease slowly and in a continuous way until it has used up the existing gas. The results of the study show that, although this was the process that took place over the first 4 billion years of the disc formation, a severe star formation burst, or "stellar baby boom" -- as stated in the article published in the Nature Research Highlights --, inverted this trend. The merging with a satellite galaxy of the Milky Way, which was rich in gas, could have added new fuel and reactivated the process of stellar formation, in a similar way to when a gas cylinder is changed. This mechanism would explain the distribution of distances, ages and masses that are estimated from the data taken from the European Space Agency Gaia satellite. "The time scale of this star formation burst together with the great amount of stellar mass involved in the process, thousands of millions of solar mass, suggests the disc of our Galaxy did not have a steady and paused evolution, it may have suffered an external perturbation that began about five billion years ago," said Roger Mor, ICCUB researcher and first author of the article. "We have been able to find this out due having -- for the first time -- precise distances for more than three million stars in the solar environment," says Roger Mor. "Thanks to these data, we could discover the mechanisms that controlled the evolution more than 8-10 billion years ago in the disc of our Galaxy, which is not more than the bright band we see in the sky on a dark night and with no light pollution." As in many research fields, these findings have been possible thanks to the availability of the combination of a great amount of unprecedented precision data, and the availability of many hours in computing in the computer facilities funded by the FP7 GENIUS European project (Gaia European Project for Improved data User Services) -in the Center for Scientific and Academic Services of Catalonia (CSUC). Cosmologic models predict our galaxy would have been growing due the merging with other galaxies, a fact that has been stated by other studies using Gaia data. One of these mergers could be the cause of the severe star formation burst that was detected in this study. "Actually, the peak of star formation is so clear, unlike what we predicted before having data from Gaia, that we thought necessary to treat its interpretation together with experts on cosmological evolution of external galaxies," notes Francesca Figuerars, lecturer at the Department of Quantum Physics and Astrophysics of the UB, ICCUB member and author of the article. According to the expert on simulations of galaxies similar to the Milky Way, Santi Roca-Fabrega -from the Complutense University of Mardid and also author of the article, "the obtained results match with what the current cosmological models predict, and what is more, our Galaxy seen from Gaia's eyes is an excellent cosmological laboratory where we can test and confront models at a bigger scale in the universe." Gaia mission until 2020 This study has been conducted with the second release of the Gaia mission, which was published a year ago, on April 25, 2018. Xavier Luri, director of ICCUB and also an author of the article states: "The role of scientists and engineers of the UB has been essential so that the scientific community enjoys the excellent quality of data from the Gaia release." More than 400 scientists and engineers from around Europe are part of the consortium in charge of preparing and validating these data. "Their collective work brought the international scientific community a release that is making us rethink many of the existent scenarios on the origins and evolution of our galaxy," notes Luri. In one year, more than 1,200 peer review articles published in journals show the before and after Gaia in almost all fields of astrophysics, from the recent detection of new stellar clusters, new asteroids, to the affirmation of the star extragalactic origin in our Galaxy, going through the calculus of the Milky Way mass and the findings that show compact stars end up slowly solidified. The science of what makes good chocolate has been revealed by researchers studying a 140-year-old mixing technique. Scientists have uncovered the physics behind the process -- known as conching -- which is responsible for creating chocolate's distinctive smooth texture. The findings may hold the key to producing confectionary with lower fat content, and could help make chocolate manufacturing more energy efficient. A team led by the University of Edinburgh studied mixtures resembling liquid chocolate created using the conching process, which was developed by Swiss confectioner Rodolphe Lindt in 1879. Their analysis, which involved measuring the density of mixtures and how they flow at various stages of the process, suggests conching may alter the physical properties of the microscopic sugar crystals and other granular ingredients of chocolate. Until now, the science behind the process was poorly understood. The new research reveals that conching -- which involves mixing ingredients for several hours -- produces smooth molten chocolate by breaking down lumps of ingredients into finer grains and reducing friction between particles. Before the invention of conching, chocolate had a gritty texture. This is because the ingredients form rough, irregular clumps that do not flow smoothly when mixed with cocoa butter using other methods, the team says. Their insights could also help improve processes used in other sectors -- such as ceramics manufacturing and cement production -- that rely on the mixing of powders and liquids. The study, published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, involved a collaboration with researchers from New York University. The work in Edinburgh was funded by Mars Chocolate UK and the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council. Professor Wilson Poon, of the University of Edinburgh's School of Physics and Astronomy, who led the study, said: "We hope our work can help reduce the amount of energy used in the conching process and lead to greener manufacturing of the world's most popular confectionary product. By studying chocolate making, we have been able to gain new insights into the fundamental physics of how complex mixtures flow. This is a great example of how physics can build bridges between disciplines and sectors." Statistical analysis of fossil data shows that it is unlikely that Australopithecus sediba, a nearly two-million-year-old, apelike fossil from South Africa, is the direct ancestor of Homo, the genus to which modern-day humans belong. The research by paleontologists from the University of Chicago, published this week in Science Advances, concludes by suggesting that Australopithecus afarensis, of the famous "Lucy" skeleton, is still the most likely ancestor to the genus Homo. The first A. sediba fossils were unearthed near Johannesburg in 2008. Hundreds of fragments of the species have since been discovered, all dating to roughly two million years ago. The oldest known Homo fossil, the jawbone of an as yet unnamed species found in Ethiopia, is 2.8 million years old, predating A. sediba by 800,000 years. Despite this timeline, the researchers who discovered A. sediba have claimed that it is an ancestral species to Homo. While it is possible that A. sediba (the hypothesized ancestor) could have postdated earliest Homo (the hypothesized descendant) by 800,000 years, the new analysis indicates that the probability of finding this chronological pattern is highly unlikely. "It is definitely possible for an ancestor's fossil to postdate a descendant's by a large amount of time," said the study's lead author Andrew Du, PhD, who will join the faculty at Colorado State University after concluding his postdoctoral research in the lab of Zeray Alemseged, PhD, the Donald M. Pritzker Professor of Organismal and Biology and Anatomy at UChicago. "We thought we would take it one step further to ask how likely it is to happen, and our models show that the probability is next to zero," Du said. Du and Alemseged also reviewed the scientific literature for other hypothesized ancestor-descendant relationships between two hominin species. Of the 28 instances they found, only one first-discovered fossil of a descendant was older than its proposed ancestor, a pair of Homo species separated by 100,000 years, far less than the 800,000 years separating A. sediba and earliest Homo. For context, the average lifespan of any hominin species is about one million years. "Again, we see that it's possible for an ancestor's fossil to postdate its descendant's," Du said. "But 800,000 years is quite a long time." Alemseged and Du maintain that Australopithecus afarensisis a better candidate for the direct ancestor of Homofor a number of reasons. A. afarensis fossils have been dated up to three million years old, nearing the age of the first Homo jaw. Lucy and her counterparts, including Selam, the fossil of an A. afarensischild that Alemseged discovered in 2000, were found in Ethiopia, just miles from where the Homo jaw was discovered. The jaw's features also resemble those of A. afarensis closely enough that one could make the case it was a direct descendant. "Given the timing, geography and morphology, these three pieces of evidence make us think afarensisis a better candidate than sediba," Alemseged said. "One can disagree about morphology and the different features of a fossil, but the level of confidence we can put in the mathematical and statistical analyses of the chronological data in this paper makes our argument a very strong one." A mysterious epidemic of chronic kidney disease among agricultural workers and manual laborers may be caused by a combination of increasingly hot temperatures, toxins and infections, according to researchers at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus. The study was published today in the New England Journal of Medicine. In recent years, chronic kidney disease has emerged as a major illness among workers in hot climates. It was first identified in the 1990s by clinicians treating sugar cane workers in Central America. In 2012, it claimed roughly 20,000 lives and has now been identified in California, Florida and in Colorado's San Luis Valley. But the exact cause has been hard to determine. "We looked at all the available literature on the subject and asked, `What do we know today? Where are the gaps?" said the study's lead author Lee Newman, MD, MA, director of the Center for Health, Work & Environment and professor in the Dept. of Environmental & Occupational Health at the Colorado School of Public Health. "We were hoping to synthesize everything we know so far for a framework for moving forward." The disease is more prevalent in sugar cane workers and other agricultural employees including cotton and corn workers, shrimp farmers and miners. It is less common at higher elevations. advertisement Newman and study co-author Richard Johnson, MD, of the University of Colorado School of Medicine, said the disease could be caused by heat, a direct health impact of climate change, as well as pesticides like glyphosate. "Some pesticides are nephrotoxic, and these could possibly contaminate the water supply," Johnson said. "Indeed, there are studies showing the epidemic in Sri Lanka is greatest in areas where there are shallow wells in which toxins might become concentrated." Sri Lankan farmers exposed to glyphosate showed an increased risk for chronic kidney disease. Still, the levels in wells were very low and studies in Central America turned up little glyphosate. Along with pesticides, the researchers looked at heavy metals as a possible culprit. Lead and cadmium, known to cause kidney injury, have been reported in the soils of Sri Lanka and Central America. Other potential causes include infectious diseases that can hurt the kidneys such as the hanta virus and leptospirosis, common in sugar cane workers. Genetic factors are also a possibility. "The common factors are heat exposure and heavy labor," Newman said. advertisement Heat stress and persistent dehydration can cause kidney damage. The disease is moving into the U.S. with agricultural workers in Florida, California's Central Valley and Colorado's San Luis Valley reporting incidents of the illness. "This is not the usual kidney disease we see in the U.S.," Newman said. "It is not caused by high blood pressure or diabetes. The usual suspects are not the cause." Johnson pointed out that CU Anschutz has two major efforts underway that are investigating worker health and the impact of climate change on disease. "This disease is not confined to the southern hemisphere, it is coming here and in fact it is already here," Johnson said. "It is my opinion that climate change plays a role in this epidemic." Those impacted are mostly agricultural workers, the people who grow and harvest the world's food. "They are the people who feed the planet," Johnson said. "If climate change continues like this who is going to feed us?" Newman and Johnson believe the epidemic is caused by a combination of heat and some kind of toxin and they recognize the need to take preventative action immediately. That means ensuring workers get adequate breaks, drink enough fluids and spend time in the shade. It also means maintaining a clean water supply, free of chemicals toxic to the kidneys. "When clinicians detect clusters of patients with chronic kidney disease who work for the same employer or in similar jobs," the authors said, "they should contact occupational health and safety and public health professionals to promote investigations of workplace conditions." The galaxy is littered with planetary systems vastly different from ours. In the solar system, the planet closest to the Sun -- Mercury, with an orbit of 88 days -- is also the smallest. But NASA's Kepler spacecraft has discovered thousands of systems full of very large planets -- called super-Earths -- in very small orbits that zip around their host star several times every 10 days. Now, researchers may have a better understanding how such planets formed. A team of Penn State-led astronomers found that as planets form out of the chaotic churn of gravitational, hydrodynamic -- or, drag -- and magnetic forces and collisions within the dusty, gaseous protoplanetary disk that surrounds a star as a planetary system starts to form, the orbits of these planets eventually get in synch, causing them to slide -- follow the leader-style -- toward the star. The team's computer simulations result in planetary systems with properties that match up with those of actual planetary systems observed by the Kepler space telescope of solar systems. Both simulations and observations show large, rocky super-Earths orbiting very close to their host stars, according to Daniel Carrera, assistant research professor of astronomy at Penn State's Eberly College of Science. He said the simulation is a step toward understanding why super-Earths gather so close to their host stars. The simulations may also shed light on why super-Earths are often located so close to their host star where there doesn't seem to be enough solid material in the protoplanetary disk to form a planet, let alone a big planet, according to the researchers, who report their findings in the Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society. "When stars are very young, they are surrounded by a disc that is mostly gas with some dust -- and that dust grows into the planets, like the Earth and these super-Earths," said Carrera. "But the particular puzzle for us is that this disc doesn't go the all way to the star -- there's a cavity there. And yet we see these planets closer to the star than the edge of that disc." The astronomers' computer simulation shows that, over time, the planets' and disk's gravitational forces lock the planets into synchronized orbits -- resonance -- with each other. The planets then begin to migrate in unison, with some moving closer to the edge of the disk. The combination of the gas disk affecting the outer planets and the gravitational interactions among the outer and inner planets can continue to push the inner planets very closer to the star, even interior to the edge of the disk. advertisement "With the first discoveries of Jupiter-size exoplanets orbiting close to their host star, astronomers were inspired to develop multiple models for how such planets could form, including chaotic interactions in multiple planet systems, tidal effects and migration through the gas disk," said Eric Ford, professor of astronomy and astrophysics, director of Penn State's Center for Exoplanets and Habitable Worlds and Institute for CyberScience (ICS) faculty co-hire. "However, these models did not predict the more recent discoveries of super-Earth-size planets orbiting so close to their host star. Some astronomers had suggested that such planets must have formed very near their current locations. Our work is important because it demonstrates how short-period super-Earth-size planets could have formed and migrated to their current locations thanks to the complex interactions of multiple planet systems." Carrera said more work remains to confirm that the theory is correct. "We've shown that it's possible for planets to get that close to a star in this simulation, but it doesn't mean that it's the only way that the universe chose to make them," said Carrera. "Someone might come up with a different idea of a way to get the planets that close to a star. And, so, the next step is to test the idea, revise it, make predictions that you can test against observations." Future research may also explore why our super-Earthless solar system is different from most other solar systems, Carrera added. "Super-Earths in very close orbits are by far the most common type of exoplanet that we observe, and yet they don't exist in our own solar system and that makes us wonder why," said Carrera. According to the researchers, the best published estimates suggest that about 30 percent of solar-like stars have some planets close to the host star than the Earth is to the Sun. However, they note that additional planets are could go undetected, especially small planets far from their star. Andre Izidoro, researcher, Sao Paulo State University -- UNESP, worked with Carrera and Ford on the study, that began thanks to collaborations formed as part of NASA's Nexus for Exoplanet Systems Science. Computations for this research were performed on the Penn State's Institute for CyberScience Advanced CyberInfrastructure (ICS-ACI) and the CyberLAMP computer cluster. The National Science Foundation, NASA and Penn State's Center for Exoplanets and Habitable Worlds supported this work. Most Europeans descend from a combination of European hunter-gatherers, Anatolian early farmers, and Steppe herders. But only European speakers of Uralic languages like Estonian and Finnish also have DNA from ancient Siberians. Now, with the help of ancient DNA samples, researchers reporting in Current Biology on May 9 suggest that these languages may have arrived from Siberia by the beginning of the Iron Age, about 2,500 years ago, rather than evolving in Northern Europe. The findings highlight the way in which a combination of genetic, archaeological, and linguistic data can converge to tell the same story about what happened in particular areas in the distant past. "Since the transition from Bronze to Iron Age coincides with the diversification and arrival time of Finnic languages in the Eastern Baltic proposed by linguists, it is plausible that the people who brought Siberian ancestry to the region also brought Uralic languages with them," says Lehti Saag of University of Tartu, Estonia. Although researchers knew that the Uralic-speaking people share common Siberian ancestry, its arrival time in the Eastern Baltic had remained uncertain. To characterize the genetic ancestry of people from the as-yet-unstudied cultural layers, Saag along with Kristiina Tambets and colleagues extracted DNA from the tooth roots of 56 individuals, 33 of which yielded enough DNA to include in the analysis. "Studying ancient DNA makes it possible to pinpoint the moment in time when the genetic components that we see in modern populations reached the area since, instead of predicting past events based on modern genomes, we are analyzing the DNA of individuals who actually lived in a particular time in the past," Saag explains. Their data suggest that the Siberian ancestry reached the coasts of the Baltic Sea no later than the mid-first millennium BC -- around the time of the diversification of west Uralic/Finnic languages. It also indicates an influx of people from regions with strong Western hunter-gatherer characteristics in the Bronze Age, including many traits we now associate with modern Northern Europeans, like pale skins, blue eyes, and lactose tolerance. "The Bronze Age individuals from the Eastern Baltic show an increase in hunter-gatherer ancestry compared to Late Neolithic people and also in the frequency of light eyes, hair, and skin and lactose tolerance," Tambets says, noting that those characteristics continue amongst present-day Northern Europeans. The researchers are now expanding their study to better understand the Iron Age migration processes in Europe. They say they will also "move forward in time and focus on the genetic structure of the medieval time period." This work was supported by the Estonian Research Council, the EU European Regional Development Fund, a European Research Council Starting Investigator Grant, a Wellcome Trust Senior Research Fellowship Grant, a Sapienza University of Rome fellowship, and Arheograator Ltd. (L.V. and A. Kriiska). Teens who experience cyberbullying are more likely to suffer from poor sleep, which in turn raises levels of depression, found a University at Buffalo study. Although research has examined the relationship between online bullying and depression, the UB study is one of few to explore the connection between cyber victimization and sleep quality. The study surveyed more than 800 adolescents for sleep quality, cyber aggression and depression. The research will be presented by Misol Kwon, first author and doctoral student in the UB School of Nursing, at SLEEP 2019, the 33rd annual meeting of the Associated Professional Sleep Societies in San Antonio, Texas from June 8-12. "Cyber victimization on the internet and social media is a unique form of peer victimization and an emerging mental health concern among teens who are digital natives," said Kwon. "Understanding these associations supports the need to provide sleep hygiene education and risk prevention and interventions to mistreated kids who show signs and symptoms of depression." Nearly one third of teens have experienced symptoms of depression, which, in addition to changes in sleep pattern, include persistent irritability, anger and social withdrawal, according to the U.S. Office of Adolescent Health. And nearly 15 percent of U.S. high school students report being bullied electronically, says Kwon. At severe levels, depression may lead to disrupted school performance, harmed relationships or suicide. The risks of allowing depression to worsen highlight the need for researchers and clinicians to understand and target sleep quality and other risk factors that have the potential to exacerbate the disorder. Research funded in part by the U.S. Army identified properties in materials that could one day lead to applications such as more powerful data storage devices that continue to hold information even after a device has been powered off. A team of researchers led by Cornell University and the University of California Berkeley made a discovery that opens up a plethora of materials systems and physical phenomena that can now be explored. The scientists observed what's known as chirality for the first time in polar skyrmions in an exquisitely designed and synthesized artificial material with reversible electrical properties. Chirality is where two objects, like a pair of gloves, can be mirror images of each other but cannot be superimposed on one another. Polar skyrmions are textures made up of opposite electric charges known as dipoles. Researchers had always assumed that skyrmions would only appear in magnetic materials, where special interactions between magnetic spins of charged electrons stabilize the twisting chiral patterns of skyrmions. When the team discovered skyrmions in an electric material, they were astounded, they said. The combination of polar skyrmions and these electrical properties may allow for the development of novel devices that are of significant interest to the Army, especially using the chirality as a parameter that can be manipulated. "Now that we know that polar/electric skyrmions are chiral, we want to see if we can electrically manipulate them," said Dr. Ramamoorthy Ramesh, the co-principal investigator of this project. "If I apply an electric field, can I turn each one like a turnstile? Can I move each one, one at a time, like a checker on a checkerboard? If we can somehow move them, write them, and erase them for data storage, then that would be an amazing new technology." Researchers published their findings in the journal Nature. advertisement "This ground-breaking discovery can be used in the future to develop device structures that can be used to improve logic/memory, sensing, communications, and other applications for the Army as well as industry," said Dr. Pani (Chakrapani) Varanasi, chief of the Materials Science Division of the Army Research Office, an element of U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Command's Army Research Laboratory. When the team began the study in 2016, they had set out to find ways to control how heat moves through materials. They fabricated a special crystal structure called a superlattice from alternating layers of lead titanate (an electrically polar material, whereby one end is positively charged and the opposite end is negatively charged) and strontium titanate (an insulator, or a material that doesn't conduct electric current). The research team started to explore the synthesis of artificially designed and structured oxides, with the goal to explore emergent phenomena. Emergent phenomena are pervasive in nature -- fish swimming in a school, birds flying in formation, the emergence of crowd and mobs are all examples of how interactions of discrete objects (fish, birds, humans) can lead to unexpected collective behavior. Materials can also exhibit such emergent behavior, especially when placed under constraints. When the scientists took scanning transmission electron microscopy measurements of the artificially engineered lead titanate/strontium titanate superlattice, they saw something strange that had nothing to do with heat: Bubble-like formations had cropped up all across the material. Lead titanate is a well-known ferroelectric material, while strontium titanate, its sister compound is not ferroelectric at room temperature. Ferroelectric are materials that have a spontaneous electric polarization that can be reversed by the application of an external electric field. Those bubbles, it turns out, were polar skyrmions. advertisement While using sophisticated scanning transmission electron microscopy at Berkeley Lab's Molecular Foundry and at the Cornell Center for Materials Research, David Muller of Cornell University took atomic snapshots of skyrmions' chirality at room temperature in real time. The researchers discovered that the forces placed on the polar lead titanate layer by the nonpolar strontium titanate layer generated the polar skyrmion bubbles in the lead titanate. "Materials are like people," Ramesh said. "When people get stressed, they respond in unpredictable ways. And that's what materials do too: In this case, by surrounding lead titanate by strontium titanate, lead titanate starts to go crazy -- and one way that it goes crazy is to create polar textures like skyrmions instead of being uniformly polarized." "This work has enabled the discovery of a fundamentally new phenomena in oxide superlattices," Schlom said. "We now have a template based on epitaxy to create many other science universes. For example, we can start to look at spin-charge coupling in such superlattices; work on this is already underway." The researchers also plan to study the effects of applying an electric field on the polar skyrmions. Researchers from Pennsylvania State University and Oak Ridge National Laboratory also contributed to the study. Additionally, the Department of Energy Office of Science supported this research with additional funding provided by the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation's EPiQS Initiative, the National Science Foundation, the Luxembourg National Research Fund, and the Spanish Ministry of Economy and Competitiveness. FLORENCE, S.C. -- Florence County Sheriff's Office investigators Wednesday busted a still and arrested an Effingham man after they found a still on his front porch. EFFINGHAM, S.C. Three people have been charged in connection with the Easter Sunday death of a California woman who had stopped in Florence County for a few days on her way to Florida. Acting Florence County Sheriff William Barnes said in a Thursday afternoon press conference that Tara Echivera, who was staying at the home of Cecelia and Jana Knox on McKeithan Road, was killed on April 21. The case was initially a missing persons case, Barnes said. Cecelia Elaine Knox, 31, of 724 McKeithan Road, was arrested April 30 and charged with murder, Barnes said. "I think that she knew them and was staying with them for a day or two," Barnes said. Jana Lynn Knox, 39, of 724 McKeithan Road was arrested May 1 by Florence County Sheriff's deputies and charged wtih being an accessory after the fact of murder and obstruction of justice, Barnes said. James Lee Knox, 37, of 228 Morrow Road, Apt. 13, Forest Park, Ga, was arrested May 5 by the U.S. Marshals Fugitive Task Force and Florence County Sheriff's deputies and charged with being an accessory after the fact to murder. Climate change is giving old trees a growth spurt WASHINGTON--Larch trees in the permafrost forests of northeastern China--the northernmost tree species on Earth - are growing faster as a result of climate change, according to new research. A new study of growth rings from Dahurian larch in China's northern forests finds the hardy trees grew more from 2005 to 2014 than in the preceding 40 years. The findings also show the oldest trees have had the biggest growth spurts: Trees older than 400 years grew more rapidly in those 10 years than in the past 300 years, according to the new study. The study's authors suspect warmer soil temperatures are fueling the growth spurts by lowering the depth of the permafrost layer, allowing the trees' roots to expand and suck up more nutrients. The increased growth is good for the trees in the short-term but may be disastrous for the forests in the long-term, according to the authors. As the climate continues to warm, the permafrost underneath the trees may eventually degrade and no longer be able to support the slow-growing trees. No other tree species can survive the permafrost plains this far north, so if the larch forests of northern Asia disappear, the entire ecosystem would change, according to the study's authors. "The disappearance of larch would be a disaster to the forest ecosystem in this region," said Xianliang Zhang, an ecologist at Shenyang Agricultural University in Shenhang, China, and lead author of the new study in AGU's Journal of Geophysical Research: Biogeosciences. Earth's hardiest trees Dahurian larch is Earth's northernmost tree species and its most cold-hardy: These larches are the only trees that can tolerate the frigid permafrost plains of Russia, Mongolia and northern China. Chinese locals refer to Dahurian larch as "thin-old-trees," because they grow slowly in the thin active layer of soil above the permafrost and can live for more than 400 years. Permafrost regions around the world have been thawing in recent decades due to rising temperatures, sometimes degrading into swamps and wetlands. In the new study, Zhang and his colleagues analyzed growth rings from more than 400 Dahurian larch in old-growth forests of northeastern China, the southernmost portion of the tree's range, to see how the trees are faring in a warming climate. Tree rings allow scientists to measure how much trees grow from year to year. Much like people, trees do most of their growing while young. Dahurian larch generally grow rapidly until they become around 150 years old, at which point their growth slows. When the trees hit 300 years old, their growth basically stalls. The researchers used the width of each tree's growth rings to calculate how much area each tree gained in cross-section each year over the course of its lifetime. The results show Dahurian larch trees grew more from 2005 to 2014 than from 1964 to 2004. Interestingly, the effect was most pronounced in the oldest trees: Trees older than 300 years grew 80 percent more from 2005 to 2014 than in the preceding 40 years. Trees between 250 and 300 years old grew 35 percent more during that time period, while trees younger than 250 years grew between 11 and 13 percent more. The old trees' growth is unusual - it's akin to a 100-year-old person suddenly getting taller, according to Zhang. The authors suspect older trees are growing more than younger trees because they have more developed root systems that can harvest resources from the soil more efficiently. The researchers compared the trees' growth rates to climate factors like soil temperatures and precipitation data over the past 50 years to see what was causing the unusual growth. They found increased soil temperatures, especially in winter, are likely powering the growth spurts. They suspect the warmer temperatures lower the depth of the permafrost layer, providing the trees' roots more room to expand and access to more nutrients. While this initial soil warming has benefitted Dahurian larch, further permafrost thaw could likely decrease tree growth and even cause the forest to decay, according to the authors. Dahurian larch can't survive in wet conditions, so permafrost changing to wetlands or peatlands would be detrimental to the forest as a whole, they said. "If the larch forest retreat in this region in the future, it is also not a good sign for the whole boreal forest," Zhang said. While other research has examined the effects of a warming climate on temperature-sensitive trees in North America, the new study examined temperature-sensitive trees in permafrost areas, which have been less widely studied but are a vast component of the boreal forest, said Erika Wise, an associate professor of geography at the University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill, who was not involved in the new study. Additionally, previous studies on these larch trees have focused on the effects of air temperature and precipitation, but the new study looked at the influence of ground surface temperatures, which has also not been studied widely, she added. "Their arguments make a lot of logical sense in terms of why the trees might benefit from the increased winter ground surface temperatures, which is that especially things like an earlier spring thaw could really help trees get growing earlier, more ability to have root activity in the cold months, these sort of things would make sense in why trees would benefit from warmer winters in particular," Wise said. ### Founded in 1919, AGU is a not-for-profit scientific society dedicated to advancing Earth and space science for the benefit of humanity. We support 60,000 members, who reside in 135 countries, as well as our broader community, through high-quality scholarly publications, dynamic meetings, our dedication to science policy and science communications, and our commitment to building a diverse and inclusive workforce, as well as many other innovative programs. AGU is home to the award-winning news publication Eos, the Thriving Earth Exchange, where scientists and community leaders work together to tackle local issues, and a headquarters building that represents Washington, D.C.'s first net zero energy commercial renovation. We are celebrating our Centennial in 2019. #AGU100 Notes for Journalists This paper is freely available through May 31. Journalists and public information officers (PIOs) can download a PDF copy of the article by clicking on this link: https:/ / agupubs. onlinelibrary. wiley. com/ doi/ epdf/ 10. 1029/ 2018JG004882 Journalists and PIOs may also request a copy of the final paper by emailing Liza Lester at llester@agu.orgllester@agu.org. Please provide your name, the name of your publication, and your phone number. Neither the paper nor this press release is under embargo. Paper Title "Warmer winter ground temperatures trigger rapid growth of Dahurian larch in the permafrost forests of northeast China" Authors: Xianlian Zhang, College of Forestry, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang, China and College of Forestry, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, China Xuping Bai and Zhenju Chen, College of Forestry, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang, China Meiting Hou, China Meteorological Administration Training Centre, China Meteorological Administration, Beijing, China Ruben D. Manzanedo, Harvard Forest, Harvard University, Petersham, MA, USA and Biology Department, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA AGU press contact: Liza Lester +1 (202) 777-7494 llester@agu.orgllester@agu.org Researcher contacts: Xianliang Zhang (+86) 18742456171 zhxianliang@126.comzhxianliang@126.com Shenyang, China (UTC +8) Ruben D. Manzanedo +1 (413) 336-1120 rdmanzanedo@fas.harvard.edurdmanzanedo@fas.harvard.edu Seattle, Washington (UTC -7) This story has been published on: 2019-05-09. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. Former CEO of Lynch, Jones & Ryan brokerage now works to improve the business district of Fifth Avenue in New York City. It appears Daniel Mengden is on his way back to Oaklands rotation, at least briefly. Right-hander Mike Fiers told The Chronicle on Thursday that the team is giving him an extra day off after his 131-pitch no-hitter Tuesday, and the As are listing TBA for Sundays starter. That points to Mengden, who would be on turn to start that day after going Tuesday for Triple-A Las Vegas. He allowed one earned run in six innings in that outing against Salt Lake, and he has a 2.77 ERA. Mengden had a rough spring, with a 5.73 ERA and seven walks in 11 innings, but he did nice work for the team under unusual circumstances in September, when he was asked to be the follower after reliever Liam Hendriks opened games. In his final six appearances, Mengden had a 2.52 ERA and opponents batted .180 against him. Mengden has had only one start in which he has allowed more than three runs at Las Vegas this year, and he has struck out 44 in 39 innings. Opponents are batting .197 against the 26-year-old right-hander. Edwin Jackson might have been an option for Oakland but not on short rest; Jackson, signed to a minor-league deal last month, started Wednesday for Las Vegas and allowed six hits and seven runs in five innings. Fiers threw the 300th no-hitter in big-league history Tuesday against the Reds. Fiers threw 134 pitches in his first career no-hitter in 2015 against the Dodgers when he was with Houston. Fiers next will go Monday at Seattle. Injury report: Outfielder-first baseman Mark Canha, out with a right wrist injury, could be back with the As in the next week. Canha said that hes heading on a rehab assignment Friday. He has been out since April 29 with inflammation that became an issue when he was hitting in the batting cage in Toronto, but he said things improved quickly. He hit off the high-velocity pitching machine Thursday. Hit a few fastballs to really test it and it felt good, he said. In addition, starter Marco Estrada said hes starting to improve after an ablation to address lower back pain; he was told that the procedure would take about three weeks to take effect. Its starting to work, I think, he said. The last four or five days, Im starting to feel better. Estrada doesnt believe hed need a lengthy rehab assignment once hes pitching again. Susan Slusser is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Good morning, Bay Area. Its Thursday, May 9, and a study is pointing the finger at ride-hailing services for the rise in traffic congestion, California bans a widely-used farm pesticide, and were looking back at what became of the Twitter tax break in Mid-Market. Heres what you need to know to start your day. From Fifth to 10th Eight years ago, San Francisco city leaders offered a tax break to draw companies to the Mid-Market neighborhood a deal that became associated with one of its major beneficiaries: Twitter. That tax break expires on May 20. To mark its end, three Chronicle stories look at the evolution of the street, the impact on commercial and residential real estate, and the benefits that flowed or didnt to the city and its people. The people who were really against it are looking back and saying, See, I told you so. Don Falk, CEO of the Tenderloin Neighborhood Development Corp. says. And the people who were for it, are saying, See, I told you so. Congestion diagnosis Santiago Mejia / The Chronicle Ride-hailing services account for two-thirds of the rise in traffic congestion in San Francisco over the past six years, according to a study by a deputy director at the San Francisco County Transportation Authority and the University of Kentucky. Sign up for Bay Briefing Like what you're reading? Subscribe to The Chronicle's Bay Briefing newsletter, and get the Bay Area's best journalism in your in-box every weekday. See More Collapse Uber and Lyft previously contested data the Transportation Authority released in October, saying that the agency didnt account for the growth in tourism, freight or delivery services that increased with the economic recovery. But one of the studys authors says without ride-hailing cars, congestion would have increased 22% within the city instead of 62%. Many factors contribute to congestion including population growth, Joe Castiglione tells reporter Rachel Swan. But the addition of TNCs (or transportation network companies, such as Uber and Lyft) is greater than all of them. More: Uber and Lyft drivers outside of their cars blocked Market Street during a protest ahead of Ubers Friday public offering. Meanwhile in transit: An equipment problem that has stymied Munis new light-rail fleet is bigger than the agency originally thought, a top official said this week. Statewide ban Eric Risberg / Associated Press California will ban the widely used farm pesticide chlorpyrifos, a chemical that studies have indicated can cause brain damage in children, Gov. Gavin Newsoms administration said Wednesday. The ban could take as long as two years to kick in, but in the meantime, the Department of Pesticide Regulation will order county agricultural commissioners to ban aerial spraying of the pesticide and allow its use only when no safer alternatives are available. Chlorpyrifos was first developed as a nerve agent in World War II and was on track for a nationwide ban until the Environmental Protection Agency under President Trump sought and received a five-year extension for further study of the pesticide. The hangover Santiago Mejia / The Chronicle A new Amy Poehler-directed comedy, Wine Country, is the newest entrant in a relatively small club of high-profile movies set in, well, Wine Country. Our wine critic, Esther Mobley, looks at what the movie gets right (and wrong) about wine tasting and tourism in Napa. More: Esther on the female stereotypes the wine industry seems only too glad to preserve. From a half-billion to $0 Paul Chinn / The Chronicle A pending deal to sell almost half of Park Tower, one of San Franciscos tallest office buildings and a home to Facebook in the city could lead to $539 million changing hands and set the new skyscrapers value at more than $1 billion an almost unprecedented assessment. But the city will get nothing from the deal, at least in the form of the transfer taxes it collects on most sales of real estate. Roland Li reports on why. Around the bay 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. Handing out waivers? San Francisco City Attorney Dennis Herrera is investigating whether a pediatrician gave unlawful medical exemptions to parents who did not want their children vaccinated. Sharks bite: The San Jose Sharks win their series against the Colorado Avalanche and are headed to the conference finals. Warrior down: Kevin Durant exits Game 5 against the Houston Rockets with a leg injury. Running away: Why does a man whos minding his own business, riding his bicycle, end up dead at the hands of a police officer, Otis R. Taylor Jr. asks. Crack up: The Punch Line comedy club is moving and nobody in the comedy world is laughing. After the snow: Tom Stienstra on the best outdoor spots to spend this Memorial Day weekend. The world was wide enough: Back-to-back acts of generosity unfold outside SF Hamilton show. Chronicle Covers The Chronicle CRIME, MOBS MOVING IN STATE REPORTS reads the headline of the the May 11, 1953 front page of The Chronicle. Harbingers of organized and syndicated crime in San Francisco indicates the integrity of local government is in trouble, Charles Raudebaugh reported. The Chronicle was especially interested in this investigation because the states findings reflected an exclusive series on San Francisco crime that the paper had featured on its front pages. The Chronicles series is supported, reads a short item packed in the front page, adding that the newspapers stories had city-wide repercussions something were still doing in 2019. See more Chronicle Covers from the archives here. Bay Briefing is written by Taylor Kate Brown and sent to readers email in-boxes on weekday mornings. Sign up for the newsletter here, and contact Brown at taylor.brown@sfchronicle.com Mayor London Breed called on San Francisco transportation officials to double the pace of protected bike-lane construction in the next two years, an effort to stop a wave of traffic fatalities that has gripped the city. The announcement, which would add 20 miles of new lanes girded against cars and trucks, came amid the festivities of Bike to Work Day an annual celebration that was clouded this year by the recent spate of road mayhem. Twelve people have died in crashes, including one cyclist, since the beginning of January. As the mayor presses for a better bicycle network that would thread San Franciscos disparate neighborhoods, some city leaders are bracing for a battle. Every street safety project runs through a gantlet of community meetings, hitting resistance from merchants and residents who dont want to see traffic lanes removed and parking stripped out. The path to making our streets safer and more reliable generally runs through parking, transportation chief Ed Reiskin said in a March interview, shortly after cyclist Tess Rothstein was crushed by a truck on Howard Street. Like Breed, Reiskin has expressed frustration with the glacial progress of protective bike infrastructure, now slogging along at the rate of 5 miles a year. Yet he also said at a board meeting on Tuesday that infrastructure alone wont stop a crisis. We cant design our way out of every eventuality, Reiskin told the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agencys Board of Directors, warning that Vision Zero isnt just about widening curbs and putting barriers around bike paths its also about changing drivers behavior. Breed took this into account by also directing city traffic officials to beef up enforcement. She instructed the SFMTA to increase citations for blocking bike lanes by 10% over the next six months. The agency reported 27,000 citations for bike-lane infractions in the last six months of 2018. Bicycles have gained popularity as a mode of commuting and a lifestyle choice, Breed noted. Since 2006, the number of bicycle trips has about tripled, she said, describing bikes as an antidote to traffic congestion that chokes the downtown core. 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. Some bike activists are calling for more aggressive measures. A movement to banish cars from the main stretch of Market Street, starting at the Ferry Building and ending near the Hayes Valley neighborhood, is picking up steam. Safety advocates are urging the SFMTA to consider barring automobiles from other streets as well, a move that would signal a dramatic cultural shift in San Francisco. Matt Brezina, a vocal cyclist and co-founder of People Protected a roving protest in which participants form a human chain along unprotected bike paths called Breeds announcement a very good sign. He pointed out that several city officials touted protected bike lanes at Tuesdays Bike to Work rally outside City Hall. Two or three years ago, no one in the political establishment was talking about these safety measures. Still, announcements are announcements the lanes dont exist yet, Brezina said. The real celebration happens when construction starts. Rachel Swan is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: rswan@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @rachelswan A wild conspiracy theory shut down a festival that was supposed to take place Saturday in the foothills of the Sierra to raise money for a charter school. It started with a tweet from former FBI director James Comey. The seemingly innocuous hashtag #FiveJobsIveHad was interpreted by some conspiracy-minded individuals to be a reference to Jihad. Next, the internet sleuths took the first letter of each item to reach the acronym GVCSF. A quick internet search led the collection of Twitter trolls to the Grass Valley Charter School Foundation, whose annual Blue Marble Jubilee was scheduled for this weekend. Several Twitter users floated the notion that Comeys post was a coded false flag message describing the festival as a target. Nothing better happen at the fundraiser, said one user, who connected the time stamp on Comeys tweet to when a plane hit the World Trade Center during the 9/11 terror attacks. The bizarre post quickly racked up nearly 2,000 retweets. Some of the Twitter users appeared to be followers of Q, or QAnon, the long-debunked, far-right conspiracy theory that President Trump and Special Counsel Robert Mueller will work together to take down Trumps political enemies who allegedly engage in pedophilia and other crime. Several people, apparently concerned after reading the theory on the jubilee fundraiser, called and emailed the school as well as local law enforcement to warn them, said Sgt. Brian Blakemore, of the Grass Valley Police Department. The callers sounded coherent not the tin foil hat in the dungeon type that you might expect, he said. The school became aware when these followers of this conspiracy theory guy started contacting the school and the Police Department, letting us know there was this plot that was being uncovered and that we had to be sure to protect the kids and the site, he said. The school never received a direct threat; it was people warning them about this plot. In addition to the school, foundation and police, Nevada County sheriffs deputies and FBI agents in the Chico field office were contacted about the alleged attack planned for the festival. Blakemore said the idea of an attack was baseless. Local officials and school leaders were not concerned about a terror plot, but rather that concerned citizens might show up to guard the place, he added. If a vigilante made an appearance, it wouldnt be without precedent. 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. In 2016, the false Pizzagate conspiracy theory, which claimed Democrats were running a child sex ring in a Washington pizza parlor, inspired a North Carolina man to go to the restaurant and fire an AR-15 rifle because he believed he could free the children. No one was injured. In a statement, festival organizers said they canceled the event out of an abundance of caution. Not only is it disappointing that the cancellation of this event deprives the families of our school and community a day of fun and connection, but the Blue Marble Jubilee also serves as a fundraiser, Wendy Willoughby, president of the school foundation, said in the statement. We now find ourselves not only out the potential dollars raised at the event, but also the money already spent in preparation. The event was set to include an art sale, crafts, face painting, musical performances and food. Those who already bought tickets will be refunded next week, organizers said. Mike Rothschild, who researches and debunks conspiracy theories, wrote in a blog post that it was difficult to tell whether the response to Comeys tweet was genuine or a parody. He said Q, the supposed leader, is posting less frequently and having less of an impact. And so like starving villagers fanning out into the countryside to forage for whatever they can find, Qs acolytes are latching on to interpretations and theories that stray from the realm of the possible into raw, uncut nonsense, Rothschild wrote. QAnon social media is full of decodes like this. Its a movement made for turning nothing into something, then pretending that youve been granted secret knowledge. Kimberly Veklerov is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: kveklerov@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @kveklerov A third year of declining ridership is putting a strain on BARTs budget plans and raising the specter of more fare hikes. Riders demands are escalating. They want cleaner stations, more police officers and more barriers to prevent cheats. All of these items get expensive for a transit system that leans heavily on its fare box. BART relies on riders to cover two-thirds of its operating costs, and riders are peeling off. The rail system peaked at 128.5 million passengers in 2016 and has fallen for the two years since to 124.2 million in 2017, and 120.6 million last year. And it continues to plunge, BART staff said during a board meeting Thursday morning, in which the directors discussed the agencys $2.3 billion budget. Next month, the board must approve the budget for fiscal 2020, which begins July 1. Theyre considering whether to hike fares, which are set to jump by 5.4% or about 40 cents for a long trip in 2020. In June, the directors will decide whether to raise them again in 2022. BART ties these fare increases to inflation and dedicates the money to capital projects, such as the new railcar fleet and the maintenance division in Hayward. Some directors fretted Thursday that passengers arent getting a good deal, and that higher-priced tickets will only deter more people. Thats what I believe, said director Debora Allen after the meeting. My analogy is that if youre not happy with your cable service, and then they come at you and raise the bill by 5 percent, the cable company is going to lose customers. Homelessness, drug use and grime in the stations are driving customers away, at a time when public transit is struggling to compete with Uber and Lyft. Outside commute hours, the slump really starts to show: Weekend trips are nearly 6% below BARTs projections. Were losing riders because of concerns about fare evasion and narcotics use, said board President Bevan Dufty, noting that the slide correlates with an abysmal customer satisfaction survey last year. BARTs approval rating tanked at 56%. There are additional complications, such as the prolonged Transbay Tube retrofit thats forcing BART to open an hour later on weekdays and the Golden State Warriors move to San Francisco this fall, which will reduce demand for service to their current venue at the Oakland Coliseum. The agency expects to see $435 million in fares this year and $427 million next year down significantly from a high of $462 million in 2016. Advertising revenue also went down 51%, from $20.7 million in this years budget, to $10.1 million in the preliminary budget for next year. At the same time, BARTs operating expenses are up 4%, and climbing. The agency plans to hire 19 new police officers and four fare inspectors; its paying several regional bus agencies to run early-bird shuttles during the tube retrofit; and its spending money to build walls and railings in the stations a bulwark against fare evaders. BART and the Bay Area continue to face an uncertain economic outlook, and challenges to quality of life, aging infrastructure, declining ridership, increased operating expenses and substantial multi-year deficits provide additional obstacles, General Manager Grace Crunican wrote in a sobering March budget memo. It announced $17 million in cuts, and said the agency had redirected money toward the most pressing needs identified in the customer survey. 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. Bad ratings and dwindling ridership have forced the agency to go frugal. It left job vacancies open and put some anticipated programs on ice including a program that would have trained college students to work as police cadets. The agency also left out a civilian ambassador program that several board directors support, which has become a source of tension between BART staff and the board. Im personally in very strong support of prioritizing the ambassador program over 19 police officers, said director Janice Li. BART is using state grants and sales tax revenue to fill in the gaps. But its directors are also scrambling to provide better service with less money. In the end, a very small fraction of the agencys budget is open for debate, as officials argue over how to change perceptions of the system. At the end of the day, were talking about ... the stuff thats going to be seen and felt by riders: personal safety, homelessness and fare evasion, Li said. A 56% customer satisfaction rating just isnt acceptable. Rachel Swan is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: rswan@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @rachelswan A rallying cry echoed across San Franciscos City Hall steps Thursday afternoon as 60 homeless mothers, children and organizers called on the Board of Supervisors to allocate an additional $14 million in funding for homeless services and housing ahead of Mothers Day. Gathered on the steps outside City Hall, the group shared their experiences being homeless and presented a funding proposal from the Homeless Emergency Service Providers Association, a coalition of nonprofits, as the city prepares its budget for the next two fiscal years. The city spends more than $300 million a year to address homelessness, and advocates on Thursday suggested adding $14 million to that amount to fund more than 300 housing subsidies, expand emergency services and increase mental health support for children and their parents. I want my kids to know were going to get help, said 26-year-old Danielle Kinnard, who has been homeless for 10-plus years. She and her 1-year-old daughter, Jemeila, who was dressed in a red jacket that matched her mothers buffalo plaid flannel shirt, are currently staying at Raphael House, an emergency shelter for families, along with Kinnards 3-year-old son, Ricky. Kinnard said a bigger budget for homeless services would help thousands of families, including her own, find permanent supportive housing in San Francisco. Having this budget could open more doors to get all the families outside inside, she said. An annual report on student homelessness unveiled at Tuesdays San Francisco Unified School District board meeting found that 2,293 students are experiencing homelessness. But advocates said that number increases when factoring in students and their family members who dont have stable, consistent housing. We dont want a situation creating a pipeline into homelessness, said Jennifer Friedenbach, executive director of the Coalition on Homelessness. A lot of people experience homelessness as a kid or young person, and if we can go upstream and halt it, were talking about making a long-term dent. The number of homeless families in San Francisco has been steadily decreasing since 2013, and 97% of these people were finding shelters, according to the citys 2017 Point in Time report. Organizers said those numbers dont tell the whole story and there arent many opportunities to house entire families in the city, which has two emergency shelters for families. Existing subsidies to rehouse indigent San Francisco families often place them outside of the city, making it difficult for children to continue attending city schools. Jessica Boykins, 28, said her two sons, 3 and 8 years old, and 7-year-old daughter begged her not to tell anyone they were homeless when she said she planned to speak at the rally. But it was important to her that people know what struggles her family faced in getting help and supportive housing. We are humans and deserve to be treated as such, said Boykins, who has been homeless since 2010. Her family plans to move into permanent housing in two weeks, which will be a welcome change from living at motels, Boykins said. It shouldnt have taken nine years, she said, While most homeless kids dont live on the streets, they might be sleeping under a different roof every night as their families bounce from place to place. This leaves children at higher risk of falling asleep during class or having trouble with academics, organizers said. Drought Map Track water shortages and restrictions across Bay Area Check the water shortage status of your area, plus see reservoir levels and a list of restrictions for the Bay Areas largest water districts. On Thursday afternoon, Boykins and other families walked into City Hall to present their proposal to Mayor London Breed and the supervisors. Breed was on a phone call when she walked past the group as they milled outside her office. Some of the mothers asked Breeds aides for just 10 seconds of her time to hear their calls. The mayors office is currently working on the citys two-year budget proposal, due to the Board of Supervisors at the end of May. Breeds policy adviser on homelessness, Emily Cohen, listened to the group as they outlined how the $14 million would help people living on the streets of San Francisco. Homelessness is a top priority for the mayor, Cohen told the group. Outside City Hall, Kinnard switched Jemeila from hip to hip as Ricky hopped up and down the steps. If there was one thing she could to say to the mayor, Kinnard said, it would be a reminder to her that she ran on a platform to end homelessness. Where is the promise that you made us? Kinnard said. Gwendolyn Wu is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: gwendolyn.wu@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @gwendolynawu Garcia, who has represented the 58th District since 2012, announced her congressional candidacy three days after Rep. Lucille Roybal-Allard announced she wouldn't run for reelection. The San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency appointed Julie Kirschbaum, who has temporarily headed Muni during months that included troublesome railcar and infrastructure failures, as the citys director of transit Thursday. Kirschbaum has been interim transit director since October, when her predecessor, John Haley, retired after allegations of sexual harassment. The position oversees the daily operations of Muni, the Bay Areas largest transit system that is part of the agency, which also oversees traffic, parking and taxis in San Francisco. The appointment comes as Muni is under intense scrutiny and criticism following a series of problems, including the failures of doors and couplers in its new Muni Metro light-rail cars, and a subway incident in which a fallen power cable shut down the underground portion of the system for most of a day. Transportation Agency chief Ed Reiskin recently announced he would step down in August. Julie has immense knowledge, talent and passion that can bring a new approach to leading the transit division, Resikin said. I am confident that she is the right leader as Muni continues to move forward. Malcolm Heinicke, who chairs the agencys board, noted in a statement that Kirschbaum has proven to be very responsive to feedback from the MTA board and the general public, in her interim role. Julie is a transit expert and she has taken responsibility for the issues that have occurred on her watch so far. I respect her candor and tenacity and I am confident she will give it her all to bring the changes we need to make our system better, he said. I am honored and humbled to take on this critical role, Kirschbaum said in a statement. While we have a lot of work to do, the steps we are taking now will help improve the system for everyone. If we remain committed to putting our riders first, replacing and expanding our fleet, continuing to invest in maintenance and ensuring our system is in a state of good repair, we will provide San Francisco with the world class system it deserves. 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. Kirschbaum has more than 20 years of transportation experience and was selected in 2017 as chief transportation officer with the responsibility for more than 2,500 Muni staff who work to ensure the delivery of daily service, the agency said in a release. Prior to joining the Transportation Agency, Kirschbaum served as a senior transportation planner with the San Francisco County Transportation Authority and as a consultant in the private sector. She is a graduate of Brown University and received her masters degree in city planning from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Michael Cabanatuan is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: mcabanatuan@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @ctuan Uber and Lyft accounted for two-thirds of a 62% rise in congestion in San Francisco over six years, according to a report published on the day of a coordinated protest by drivers. The figures are eye-popping, said Joe Castiglione, deputy director for technology, data and analysis at the San Francisco County Transportation Authority. He co-authored the study with researchers from the University of Kentucky. It shows that hours of vehicle delays increased by 62% throughout the city from 2010 to 2016, the period when ride-hailing services began proliferating on the streets. Traffic models that exclude Uber and Lyft cars show that hours of delay would have gone up 22% in their absence. Extrapolating from those numbers, the studys authors concluded that on-demand ride services or transportation network companies, as theyre known in academic patois are clogging roads and siphoning people from mass transit, going against the companies stated mission to wean people off of private cars. The authors laid out their findings in the scholarly journal Science Advances, providing fodder for policymakers seeking to regulate these companies. Among the measures being considered in San Francisco are a proposal to tax Ubers and Lyfts net fares, as well as congestion pricing a road-toll intervention that aims to unclog busy streets. A similar study that the Transportation Authority published last year looked more broadly at swelling traffic from 2010 to 2016, and found that transportation network companies comprised about half of it, with the other half stemming from job and population growth. Wednesdays study narrowly measured the correlation between ride-hailing services and increased congestion. Uber and Lyft contested the data Transportation Authority officials released in October, saying that it didnt account for the growth in tourism, freight or delivery services that increased with the economic recovery. Both companies support congestion pricing, and both say their on-demand services help bolster mass transit, claims that the researchers dispute. While studies disagree on causes for congestion, almost everyone agrees on the solution, an Uber spokesperson said in a statement Wednesday. We need tools that help ensure sustainable travel modes like public transportation are prioritized over single occupant vehicles. Thats one reason we believe in comprehensive congestion pricing, which would provide millions to invest in cities public transportation systems. To Castiglione, though, the reports findings are pretty clear. Many factors contribute to congestion including population growth, he said. But the addition of TNCs (such as Uber and Lyft) is greater than all of them. He cautioned that the story isnt quite the same across the city. Although transportation network companies had a deep impact downtown and in North Beach, they barely made a blip in peripheral neighborhoods like the Outer Sunset. While for-hire vehicles abound in urban areas throughout the globe, theyre especially popular in Ubers birthplace, next to Silicon Valley. And maybe thats not a bad thing, said Randy Rentschler, legislative director of the Metropolitan Transportation Commission. If Uber and Lyft are creating more traffic, maybe its because people want to be in the city now, Rentschler said. Maybe its a sign of economic vitality. One of the things that the Bay Area has a hard time struggling with is that traffic is not universally bad. Yet the problem with transportation network companies isnt just volume. Its also the drivers behavior, said Gregory Erhardt, an assistant professor of civil engineering at the University of Kentucky and co-author of the study. When you look at pickup and drop-off behavior, the drivers stop in turn lanes, travel lanes or bicycle lanes, Erhardt said. Each time that happens in a major arterial, it blocks the flow of traffic for 140 seconds more than two minutes of dead time, the researchers found. Several other features of for-hire cars add to traffic misery in San Francisco. Most Uber and Lyft drivers some 70% come in from other cities, including a substantial labor force from as far away as the Central Valley. They spend 20 to 30% of the day trawling for passengers, mostly in downtown areas where public transit options are plentiful. 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. Nationally, buses and rail systems saw a precipitous decline over the past four years, because theyre competing for the same customers as the transportation network companies, Erhardt said. BART is fighting to keep night and weekend riders who have peeled off to Uber and Lyft, and Muni, while growing, is scrambling to improve service. There is an optimal way to fit these companies into a complex transportation puzzle, if people use them to travel from a transit hub to a specific Point B thats not served by mass transit. But a growing body of evidence suggests thats not whats happening. Between 43 and 61% of TNC trips substitute for transit, walk or bike travel or would not have been made at all, adding traffic to the road that otherwise would not have been there, the report said. Erhardt said it may be hard for other researchers to replicate those findings because Uber and Lyft keep such a tight lid on their trip data. Officials at the California Public Utilities Commission the public agency that regulates transportation companies are also reluctant to turn over numbers. When Erhardt approached Uber for records two years ago, the company only offered to provide data on trips from rail stations, which show how Uber supports mass transit. That only tells the positive part of the story, Castiglione said. He and Erhardt ultimately teamed up with computer scientists at Northeastern University to mine the data themselves. The report came as Uber approaches its initial public offering of shares, scheduled for Friday. In San Francisco, Uber and Lyft drivers blocked off Market Street in protest of what they call unfair working conditions. Its unclear how that action affected traffic. Rachel Swan is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: rswan@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @rachelswan Why does a man whos minding his own business, riding his bicycle, end up dead at the hands of a police officer? Ronell Fosters family still wants to know the answer. Vallejo police Officer Ryan McMahon fatally shot Foster on Feb. 13, 2018, after a foot chase into a dark alleyway. The Vallejo Police Department finally released the body cam video of the shooting Monday, but the footage doesnt support the police assertion that Foster grabbed McMahons flashlight and threatened him with it. It shows a cowering Foster on his back on the ground with a police officer standing over him. You see Foster get up. It looks like hes trying to run. Then, the officer shoots him. And for what? What did Foster do that warranted this most extreme police action? Did he hurt anyone? No. Was he threatening anyone? No. Did someone call police about him? No. He was riding his bicycle. At night. Without lights. McMahon told police investigators that he wanted to stop Foster to educate the public on the dangers that this person was creating for himself and the traffic on Sonoma Boulevard, according to a copy of his interview with the investigators that the city released this week. All McMahon wanted, as he tells it, was a teaching moment with a citizen. But the citizen kept riding away, then running away and wouldnt listen to McMahons commands to stop, McMahon told investigators. Not too long before this traffic stop, another police officer had shared an article with McMahon about how suspects position themselves before they attack cops they blade their stance, according to the interview. And he began thinking this is exactly what Foster was doing, he told investigators. He also began thinking Foster had a gun. Foster didnt have a gun. McMahon had a gun though. He also had a Taser, a flashlight and pepper spray. And after he chased Foster into a dark alley, Foster took a tumble. McMahon fired his Taser but that didnt incapacitate Foster, he told investigators. So, he hit Foster no more than five times with his flashlight. Foster, meanwhile, was yelling something along the lines of, What the f? What are you doing? McMahon told investigators. McMahon then indicated he did not know exactly what the suspect was saying, but he knew that he was not happy, the investigators report says. Im going to take a wild guess: Foster was terrified out of his mind in fear for his life. Maybe he had seen all those viral videos showing black men being brutalized and sometimes killed by police officers. But whatever he was feeling, hes no longer around to tell us about it. McMahon is. His account is this: Foster grabbed the flashlight and made McMahon fear for his life. He feared Foster would strike him in the head, take his gun and shoot him. McMahon told interviewers that he knew that simply being hit in the head with his flashlight could lead to his death, the investigators report said. So let me get this straight: It was reasonable use of force to strike Foster with the flashlight, but it wouldve been life threatening if Foster hit McMahon with it? Without even thinking about it, I had my firearm out, McMahon told the investigators. Im not going to die back here. Im not going to be a victim. And so, McMahon ended the teaching moment by drawing his gun and pulling the trigger on the would-be recipient of his goodwill. Drought Map Track water shortages and restrictions across Bay Area Check the water shortage status of your area, plus see reservoir levels and a list of restrictions for the Bay Areas largest water districts. The bullets hit Foster twice in the back, twice in the side and once in the back of the head, according to Adante Pointer, the Foster familys attorney. Now Playing: Vallejo police released body camera footage Monday of a February 2018 shooting that killed Ronnell Foster, a 33-year-old city resident accused of grabbing an officers flashlight during a struggle. Video: San Francisco Chronicle If youre wondering why Black Lives Matter exists, consider this case and then think about this: McMahon was one of the six Vallejo police officers who fatally shot Willie McCoy on Feb. 9, less than a year after he fatally shot Foster. Of course, there will be people who will say that Foster shouldve complied with police commands to stop. I ask this of those people: If it were you or your loved one who ran, do you think getting killed is a punishment that fits the crime of running from police? Just cause he jumped off his bicycle and ran dont give them no right to just gun him down like that, Paula McGowan, Fosters mother, told me Monday night. Ive been writing about the controversial arrests, fatal shootings and police intimidation of black and brown people in Vallejo for two years. The killing of Foster is especially concerning because it shows that even the most innocuous behavior by people of color draws the ire of Vallejos police officers. I cant stress this enough: Foster was riding a bike. He wasnt breaking into homes. He didnt assault anyone. He didnt have a weapon. He ran from a police officer thats it. Why is it that fearless police officers responding to mass shootings around the country can apprehend white men strapped with automatic weapons after theyve shot people at schools, movie theaters, mosques, synagogues and churches, but in Vallejo a black man gets fatally shot by a police officer for riding his bike without lights at night? San Francisco Chronicle columnist Otis R. Taylor Jr. appears Mondays and Thursdays. Email: otaylor@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @otisrtaylorjr Josh Edelson/AFP/Getty Images Insurance claims related to last Novembers wildfires, the most destructive month in California history for fires, have surpassed $12 billion, according to the California Department of Insurance. Most of the claims relate to the Camp Fire in Butte County, which killed 85 people and destroyed nearly 19,000 buildings last year more than any previous California wildfire. The remaining November 2018 claims are related to the Woolsey and Hill Fires in Los Angeles and Ventura counties. Chevron on Thursday dropped its bid for Anadarko Petroleum, ending the industrys fiercest takeover battle in at least 15 years and leaving Occidental Petroleum, a much smaller rival, poised to become the dominant force in the largest oil field in the United States. The San Ramon companys decision to abandon its $33 billion offer for Anadarko and instead walk away with a $1 billion breakup fee came less than a month after the two companies reached a deal. The agreement was upended when Occidental stepped in a short time later and offered to acquire Anadarko for $38 billion, most of it cash. Its bid was fortified with a commitment from Warren Buffetts Berkshire Hathaway to invest $10 billion in the company. By acquiring Anadarko, Occidental will almost double in size and gain a significant foothold in the Permian Basin, which straddles West Texas and New Mexico and has been the principal driver of the shale-oil revolution that has made the United States a major oil exporter over the past three years. Occidental would also become a major producer in the Gulf of Mexico offshore field. Winning in any environment doesnt mean winning at any cost, Michael Wirth, Chevrons chairman and chief executive, said in a statement announcing the companys decision to abandon its bid. Cost and capital discipline always matter. The tide turned strongly Monday when Anadarkos board reversed itself and rejected Chevrons bid in favor of the latest offer from Occidental. Chevron had until Friday to increase its bid. Chevron, which is four times the size of Occidental and has vastly more financial resources, could have outbid its smaller rival. The decision to walk away from the deal appeared to be an acknowledgment that investment decisions involving shale oil should reflect how quickly the wells used to drill for it become depleted. The volatility of oil prices in recent years could make that challenge more pronounced. Chevron may now consider acquiring other smaller companies active in the Permian Basin, including Pioneer Natural Resources, Concho Resources and Diamondback Energy. Wall Street applauded Chevrons decision, with the companys shares climbing more than 3% Thursday. Chevron just demonstrated its commitment to capital discipline and conservative financial policies, said Pete Speer, a senior vice president at Moodys, the credit ratings firm. Had Chevron added more cash to its offer, as Occidental did several days ago, he said, it would have materially increased its financial leverage and weakened its credit profile. Occidental shares fell more than 6%, underscoring investors concerns about the deal. T. Rowe Price, one of Occidentals largest shareholders, had threatened to vote against the board at the companys annual meeting Friday in Houston. Air Quality Tracker Check levels down to the neighborhood Ratings for the Bay Area and California, updated every 10 minutes Occidentals chief executive, Vicki Hollub, has persisted in her pursuit of Anadarko in the face of skepticism. In addition to lining up the Berkshire Hathaway investment, she made a deal to sell Anadarko assets in Algeria, Ghana, Mozambique and South Africa to the French oil giant Total for $8.8 billion if Occidental succeeded in outbidding Chevron. We look forward to signing a merger agreement with Anadarko and realizing value for our stakeholders as soon as possible, Occidental said Thursday. Bidding wars for big oil companies are unusual, but many analysts have said that Anadarkos 600,000 acres in the Permian Basin are among the most potentially profitable in the country. Anadarko identified 10,000 drilling locations that are near Occidentals operations. Clifford Krauss is a New York Times writer. Pacific Gas and Electric Co.s bankruptcy wont prevent San Francisco from pursuing its claims that the utility is holding up some local public projects and charging too much to deliver power to them, the judge in the bankruptcy case ruled Thursday. When a company files for bankruptcy, as PG&E did in January, lawsuits and other legal actions against the filer are generally suspended. But U.S. Bankruptcy Judge Dennis Montali said San Francisco can ask the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to decide whether the utility is violating federal law in the conditions it requires for supplying electricity to a variety of local projects, including housing developments, parks and homeless shelters. The stakes are high for the city, Montali said at Thursdays hearing, and if (PG&E)s culpable, its going to have to pay the piper anyway. But if the federal commission decides San Francisco is entitled to a refund, he said, the city will have to stand in line with other creditors in the bankruptcy proceedings. San Francisco buys much of its own electricity but relies on PG&E to supply customers over its transmission lines. City officials say the company has required the city to invest huge sums in infrastructure upgrades and has regularly refused to provide power at wholesale rates, instead charging premiums and insisting on unnecessary equipment. PG&E continues to insist that San Francisco provide large expensive facilities regardless of the size of the load of electricity, the city said in a court filing. It said the utilitys demands have recently held up service to an affordable housing project, the construction of a new fire boat station to replace a century-old facility, and the installation of electric vehicle charging stations in a city parking lot. A new childrens museum in Corona Heights and a homeless shelter in the Dogpatch neighborhood were delayed from opening for months in 2017 until the city agreed to PG&Es terms. Overall, San Francisco says it has spent more than $8 million to comply with the utilitys demands. New facilities are being delayed every single day, Deputy City Attorney Theresa Mueller told Montali. PG&E says it is treating the city fairly and that San Francisco should not be allowed to sidestep the rules for claims against bankrupt companies. We are not trying to use the bankruptcy proceedings to get out of our regulatory obligations, Theodore Tsekerides, a lawyer for the company, told the judge. Committees representing PG&Es creditors and holders of legal claims against the company are also taking part in the bankruptcy proceedings. A consumer group argued Thursday for the appointment of another committee to represent the utilitys millions of customers, but Montali was doubtful. Air Quality Tracker Check levels down to the neighborhood Ratings for the Bay Area and California, updated every 10 minutes Bankruptcy allows only creditors to serve on such committees, and ratepayers arent creditors, he told Robert Harris, a lawyer for The Utility Reform Network. Harris said many ratepayers are at least short-term creditors of PG&E and have concerns that would not be voiced by the current committees. He also noted that if PG&E is unable to pay for the costs of wildfires for which it is held responsible, the tab will be passed along to its customers. They can have their voices heard at the CPUC, responded PG&E attorney Stephen Karotkin, referring to the California Public Utilities Commission, which sets utility rates. Montali said he would rule on the request as soon as possible. Bob Egelko is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: begelko@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @BobEgelko Santiago Mejia/The Chronicle Taxi drivers in San Francisco plan to demonstrate outside of Ubers headquarters on Thursday ahead of the companys initial public offering on Friday. The afternoon demonstration, organized by the San Francisco Taxi Workers Alliance, follows a strike by Uber drivers on Wednesday. Some drivers for Uber and Lyft turned off their apps from noon to midnight Wednesday in protest of the ride-hailing companies treatment of its drivers, who are independent contractors though it was still possible to get rides during the strike. A 28-year-old San Francisco man was shot and hospitalized early Thursday in San Franciscos Tenderloin, police said. Officers responded to a report of a shooting at approximately 3 a.m. near the intersection of Leavenworth Street and Golden Gate Avenue. The victim was taken to a nearby hospital, where he is in stable condition, according to San Francisco police. Officials did not provide details on the suspect or a motive. San Francisco police did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Anyone with information can call the San Francisco Police Departments anonymous tip line at 415-575-4444. Gwendolyn Wu is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: gwendolyn.wu@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @gwendolynawu California High School in San Ramon will have a heavy police presence Thursday after three instances of graffiti in the past week threatened violence, authorities said. The latest act of vandalism appeared Wednesday in a boys bathroom in the schools fine arts building. Tomorrow, library will be shot up first, then courtyard and then myself, the message said. It also included a racist remark aimed toward black people, school officials said. Two other incidents of vandalism specified May 9 as the date a violent act would take place at the school. We dont have any information to suggest the threats are credible, but neither do we have information to suggest theyre not, San Ramon Valley Unified School District spokeswoman Elizabeth Graswich said. We have security measures in place and felt it was appropriate to open school today. San Ramon police will be stationed at the school Thursday to ramp up security. A rash of school shootings over the years and just the last week have made parents, students and school officials vigilant about the threats. On Tuesday, nine students were shot and one was killed at a school outside Denver. A week earlier, a gunman opened fire on the last day of classes at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, killing two students and injuring four. School district administrators informed California High parents on Wednesday that students absences on Thursday would not negatively impact them. Drought Map Track water shortages and restrictions across Bay Area Check the water shortage status of your area, plus see reservoir levels and a list of restrictions for the Bay Areas largest water districts. All three of the graffiti threats were reported by students, Graswich said, and administrators have received several tips from students eager to help determine the culprit, who will face disciplinary action from the district and possibly criminal charges. Everything weve learned from recent national events is one of the most important things you can do is create an environment where students are reporting info, Graswich said. Theyre clearly saying they want their schools to be safe. Ashley McBride is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: ashley.mcbride@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @Ashleynmcb California teachers will now have some help in how to discuss gender, sexual behavior, nutrition, drug use and other health topics in their classrooms. The state Board of Education on Wednesday approved new health education guidelines, an optional resource with suggestions on teaching health and sex education in state schools. Life has become exponentially more complex in the last few decades, said Linda Darling-Hammond, president of the board, in a statement. The Health Curriculum Framework developed by educators for educators gives district administrators and educators the guidance and resources they need to develop curriculum and instruction that can help students adopt healthy behaviors that support their physical and mental well-being and navigate through the sometimes complicated situations that will come their way. The guidelines align with state health education standards as well as sexual health and HIV prevention content that a 2016 state law requires schools to teach in middle and high schools. Required topics include the safety and effectiveness of contraceptive methods, sexually transmitted diseases, gender identity, sexual orientation, and healthy relationships, state officials said. Parents can opt their children out of sexual health instruction, but not out of other health instruction topics, including those referencing gender identity, sexual orientation, discrimination, bullying, relationships or family. Sex education has long been a controversial topic. In Alameda, for example, parents were outraged and some sued after the district in 2009 sought to reduce bullying with 45 minutes of yearly instruction on differences in families and other topics related to sexual orientation. The second-grade lesson included a story about two male penguins adopting an egg and raising the chick. And in Fremont in 2014, the school board backed off the use of a new health and sex education textbook after parents complained that some of the content including information about dating websites and erotic touching, as well as line drawings of sexual organs in various states of arousal was not appropriate for ninth graders. The state Board of Education hearing and vote Wednesday drew a range of public comment and protest, according to media reports. The recommendations include addressing gender stereotypes in transitional kindergarten through third grade. While students may not fully understand the concepts of gender expression and identity, some children in kindergarten and even younger have identified as transgender or understand they have a gender identity that is different from their sex assigned at birth, according to the guidelines. The goal is not to cause confusion about the gender of the child but to develop an awareness that other expressions exist. COVID Resources Coronavirus Map Tracking COVID-19 cases across the Bay Area and California. Instruction could include asking questions about stereotypes, including colors or toys associated with a particular gender, and then challenging those stereotypes, according to the adopted guidelines. In high school, the recommendations include demonstrations of the use of condoms and dental dams, for example, as well as instruction on the financial, emotional and other costs of pregnancy. Many districts across the state are already teaching many of the topics addressed in the new guidelines, including San Francisco and Oakland. Jill Tucker is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: jtucker@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @jilltucker Bamboo Asia is ready to bring more of its street food-inspired lunch fare to San Francisco and Oakland. A second Financial District restaurant will come to 311 California St., the former Ladle & Leaf space, on May 17. Its first Oakland location and fourth overall will take over the former City Center Grill space at 1221 Broadway in June. The chain plans to reach a total of 12 Bay Area locations by the end of 2020. Alongside investment from the founders of delivery app Caviar, the rapid growth is possible due to Bamboos unusual business model, its owners say. The chefs prepare all the food a mix of Indian, Japanese and Vietnamese dishes in one central commissary kitchen. Then the meals are portioned into vacuum-sealed bags, shipped off to the restaurants and prepared in sous vide machines, or temperature-controlled hot water baths. Unlike traditional gas ranges, the devices do not require that the restaurant install expensive ventilation systems because they cook food at low temperatures without emitting smoke. Were able to move at lightning speed now, said Bamboo Asia CEO Sebastiaan van de Rijt. We dont need fancy kitchen ventilation. We just need sous vide. The company built the 10,000-square-foot commissary kitchen which it calls a cloud kitchen in Oakland in January 2018, the same month its second location in SoMa opened. The original Financial District location opened in 2011 but closed for a dramatic overhaul and reopened about six months ago. With a reliance on sous vide, the kitchens also dont need much space. The original locations kitchen, for example, sits at just 250 square feet and feeds about 1,000 people per day, according to van de Rijt. Hannah Wagner / Bamboo Asia Each Bamboo Asia location offers three different food stations with bowls, salads and sandwiches inspired by different countries, such as Vietnamese barbecued pork with pickled carrots and peanut-lime sauce over rice noodles, and salad topped with palak paneer, curried cauliflower and tamarind chutney. As the company grows, van de Rijt said he plans to vary the cuisines from location to location. Company chefs are currently working on new Thai and Korean recipes. Van de Rijt is looking at the Peninsula and South Bay for future expansion, and also plans to add more locations in San Francisco and the East Bay. After that, he plans to build a new central commissary in Los Angeles and add more restaurants around Southern California. Food Guide Top 25 Restaurants Where to eat in the Bay Area. Find spots near you, create a dining wishlist, and more. Bamboo Asia also recently brought on Gregory Nasser as chief restaurant officer. Nasser was most recently vice president of operations at Back of the House, Adriano Paganinis restaurant group that includes Super Duper Burgers, Delarosa and Lolinda. One immediate change Nasser will bring is alcohol service. The two new locations will offer local beer, wine and sake, plus nonalcoholic and low-alcohol cocktails. The plan is for every Bamboo Asia restaurant to include a bar in the future. Nasser said he hopes to add a separate bar bite menu to boost happy hour, too. It allows the guest to experience the space in multiple ways rather than just coming in and ordering food and leaving, Nasser said. Janelle Bitker is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: janelle.bitker@sfchronicle.com At the Silent Film Festival showing of The Wedding March on Saturday, May 4, Fay Wrays daughter Victoria Riskin told a tale of her mother, at 18 years old, going to see director Erich Von Stroheim about getting a part in the movie. Over conversation in his office, he told her the Wedding March story, and she was rapt, wanting to show him she was understanding the character, Mitzi, and the pathos of her situation. When she was leaving and he said, Well, goodbye, Mitzi, she was sure she had the role. Thank you, she said, I wont let you down. So, said her daughter, whether or not he intended to give her the role, she maneuvered him into it, her daughter said. Speaking literally, however, it is Wray who spends the movie not being let down. The Wedding March was good practice for her later role as the victim in King Kong, when, famously, she is carried off by Kong and, while he is holding her in his arms, wails in fear. In this earlier film, she swoons, falls, is prone and hoisted both by the man she loves and the man she doesnt. Her feet, no doubt petite, barely touch the ground; shes an iconic damsel in distress. The star of the show, to me, was the Mont Alto Motion Picture Orchestra. The accompaniment was so packed with inside musical references and allusions to composers, and at the same time so appropriate to the action, that I had to keep reminding myself that the characters in the story werent hearing the same soundtrack. The music was intricate, sophisticated, tuneful and extravagant, and the little man was jumping out of his chair, both in appreciation and because he wanted to dance. The closing of Jardiniere at the end of last month reminded Peter Pastreich of the opening of Jardiniere, in 1997, when Pastreich was executive director of the San Francisco Symphony. Stars was pretty much the Symphonys canteen, he emailed. We took guest conductors and guest artists there after concerts, I ate lunch there two or three times a week. By 1997, however, Stars was past its peak, and food and service were deteriorating. On the Saturday night of Jardinieres first week of operation, Pastreich intended to take Symphony soloist Isaac Stern and four guests to post-concert dinner at Stars. Arriving a few minutes after the 10:30 p.m. reservation, they were told the kitchen had closed. Pastreichs pleas Stern was a world-famous violinist, there were still staffers on site were turned down. So he used a pay phone to call Jardiniere, where the kitchen, he was told, was also closed. But when he described his situation, and his guest, they were invited to come on over. When they arrived, a table was set and the full menu offered; the restaurant was empty save for Pastreich and his party. The dinner was delicious and we never had the sense that the staff was impatient for us to leave. That Monday, he called Traci Des Jardins to thank her and to tell her that the Symphony would be entertaining its guests after concerts at Jardiniere from then on. Ben Fong-Torres attended the April 20 Gathering of the Tribe event, hosted by Moonalice. That bands Roger McNamee, whose newish book is Zucked!, told the audience at Slims that next year, he hopes to make every day in April a celebration of 4/20. Despite McNamees criticisms of Facebook and founder Mark Zuckerberg, he said suggestions for that celebration should be entered on the bands Facebook page. Isadora Alman cites an obituary that ran in the Alameda Sun for a man whod died at age 60. The obituary, she says, described him as a man who loved the outdoors, was a skilled machinist and hot rodder, who had a treasured pipe collection, fed hummingbirds, could use several funny accents telling his hilarious stories and left behind many friends. Drought Map Track water shortages and restrictions across Bay Area Check the water shortage status of your area, plus see reservoir levels and a list of restrictions for the Bay Areas largest water districts. The last paragraph started that his loyal girlfriend has been left to honor, grant and carry out Jims last and final wishes. He stated that the following persons are not welcomed or invited to attend the planned celebration days and are asked to let him rest in peace. Following that is a list of seven names. Now, theres someone who knew how to hold a grudge. PUBLIC EAVESDROPPING I like to have sex before I come to church. That way, if anything happens, Im covered. Man to man, overheard at Grace Cathedral by Alexandra Morgan Leah Garchik is open for business in San Francisco, 415-777-8426. Email: lgarchik@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @leahgarchik WASHINGTON The Senate Intelligence Committee has subpoenaed Donald Trump Jr., the presidents eldest son who met with Russians in June 2016 after being promised political dirt about Hillary Clinton, according to people familiar with the committees decision. The younger Trump is the first of President Trumps children to be subpoenaed in the continuing congressional investigations into Russias 2016 election interference, and the move by the Republican-led committee is a sign that some members of the presidents party are not aligned with his desire for a swift end to all of the Russia inquiries. News of the subpoena came a day after Sen. Mitch McConnell, the majority leader, sought to lower the curtain on the drama in Congress surrounding Russias efforts to sabotage the 2016 election. The end of the Mueller investigation, he said, meant case closed. But the subpoena of the younger Trump shows that the Intelligence Committee, which is under McConnells jurisdiction, is proceeding with its vigorous investigation that for the most part has not degenerated into a partisan morass like a parallel investigation by the House of Representatives. The committee is particularly interested in the younger Trumps account of the events surrounding the Trump Tower meeting as well as his role in his fathers efforts to build a skyscraper in Moscow and comparing the testimony to his previous answers to Senate investigators in 2017. Donald Trump Jr. is a scion of Trumps global business empire and was one of his fathers close advisers during the election. Republicans expressed frustration with news of the subpoena. Rep. Kevin McCarthy of Bakersfield, the House minority leader, tweeted that the younger Trump has already spent dozens of hours testifying in front of Congressional committees. Endless investigations by either party wont change the fact that there was NO collusion. Its time to move on. Its time to focus on ISSUES, not investigations. A lawyer for Donald Trump Jr. declined to comment, as did spokespeople for the committees leaders. The decision to subpoena the presidents son is an aggressive move, and appears to have come after discussions broke down about whether the younger Trump might appear voluntarily before the panel. Donald Trump Jr. was highly unlikely to appear before the panel in person, three people close to him said, and one person said that he could invoke his Fifth Amendment rights in a written response. Mark Mazzetti and Maggie Haberman are New York Times writers. A divided federal appeals court upheld California farm labor regulations Wednesday that allow union organizers to enter growers properties at specific times before and after work and during the lunch hour to talk to workers. The state Agricultural Labor Relations Board adopted the rules in 1975, shortly after the Legislature passed the nations first law extending union rights to farmworkers. The state Supreme Court upheld the regulations in 1976. Growers did not challenge them in federal court for 40 years, an interval in which the nations high court became more conservative and protective of property rights. A strawberry-growing outfit in Siskiyou County and a grape and citrus fruit producer in Fresno sued, contending that requiring them to open their doors to union organizers amounted to a government invasion or seizure of their property without compensation. The strawberry grower, Cedar Point Nursery, said United Farm Workers union organizers entered its property early one morning in 2015, without the prior notice the rules required, and walked through work sheds with bullhorns. In a 2-1 ruling, the Ninth U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in San Francisco said the union behavior that the growers described did not amount to a violation of their property rights. The rules allow union organizers to enter growers land for limited times and do not interfere substantially with the owners control of their property, Judge Richard Paez said in the majority opinion. Dissenting Judge Edward Leavy described landowners right to exclude unwanted visitors as one of the most fundamental sticks in the bundle of property rights. Californias regulations allow organizers to enter a farm employers property for up to three hours a day one hour before and after work and one hour during lunch during four 30-day periods each year. In authorizing access, the farm labor board said unions faced more difficulties in contacting agricultural workers than they would encounter in most other industries. Many of the workers are migrants, their work schedules change frequently, there are no nearby public areas where they regularly gather, and they can seldom be reached at permanent addresses or telephone numbers, the board said. Drought Map Track water shortages and restrictions across Bay Area Check the water shortage status of your area, plus see reservoir levels and a list of restrictions for the Bay Areas largest water districts. In upholding a federal judges dismissal of the suit, the appeals court said the growers had failed to show any meaningful interference with their possessory interests in their property. Paez, joined in the majority by Judge William Fletcher, said the case was comparable to a 1980 decision by the U.S. Supreme Court that allowed activists to gather signatures on petitions in a shopping center in Santa Clara County over the owners objections. The high court found no violation of the owners property rights, and the same reasoning applies to the growers, Paez said. Leavy, in dissent, said the shopping center case was different because it involved free speech on property that was generally open to the public. He also said the growers insisted that the unions could contact employees elsewhere without entering their workplaces. The growers lawyer, Wencong Fa of the Pacific Legal Foundation, said they would probably ask the full appeals court for a rehearing. Bob Egelko is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: begelko@sfchronicle.com. Twitter: @BobEgelko Life reconstruction of the bizarre membranous-winged Ambopteryx longibrachi A new Jurassic non-avian theropod dinosaur from 163 million-year-old fossil deposits in northeastern China provides new information regarding the incredible richness of evolutionary experimentation that characterized the origin of flight in the Dinosauria.Drs. Wang Min, Jingmai K. O'Connor, Xu Xing, and Zhou Zhonghe from the Institute of Vertebrate Paleontology and Paleoanthropology (IVPP) of the Chinese Academy of Sciences described and analyzed the well-preserved skeleton of a new species of Jurassic scansoriopterygid dinosaur with associated feathers and membranous tissues. Their findings were published in Nature.The new species, namedbelongs to the Scansoriopterygidae, one of the most bizarre groups of non-avian theropods. The Scansoriopterygidae differ from other theropods in their body proportions, particularly in the proportions of the forelimb, which supports a bizarre wing structure first recognized in a close relative of Ambopteryx, Yi qi.Unlike other flying dinosaurs, namely birds, these two species have membranous wings supported by a rod-like wrist bone that is not found in any other dinosaur (but is present in pterosaurs and flying squirrels).Until the discovery of Yi qi in 2015, such a flight apparatus was completely unknown among theropod dinosaurs. Due to incomplete preservation in the holotype and only known specimen of Yi qi, the veracity of these structures and their exact function remained hotly debated.As the most completely preserved specimen to date, Ambopteryx preserves membranous wings and the rod-like wrist, supporting the widespread existence of these wing structures in the Scansoriopterygidae.WANG and his colleagues investigated the ecomorphospace disparity of Ambopteryx relative to other non-avian coelurosaurians and Mesozoic birds. The results showed dramatic changes in wing architecture evolution between the Scansoriopterygidae and the avian lineage, as the two clades diverged and underwent very different evolutionary paths to achieving flight.Interestingly, forelimb elongation, an important characteristic of flying dinosaurs, was achieved in scansoriopterygids primarily through elongation of the humerus and ulna, whereas the metacarpals were elongated in non-scansoriopterygid dinosaurs including Microraptor and birds.In scansoriopterygids, the presence of an elongated manual digit III and the rod-like wrist probably compensated for the relatively short metacarpals and provided the main support for the membranous wings. In contrast, selection for relatively elongated metacarpals in most birdlike dinosaurs was likely driven by the need for increased area for the attachment of the flight feathers, which created the wing surface in Microraptor and birds.The co-occurrence of short metacarpals with membranous wings, versus long metacarpals and feathered wings, exhibits how the evolution of these two significantly different flight strategies affected the overall forelimb structure. So far, all known scansoriopterygids are from the Late Jurassic and their unique membranous wing structure did not survive into the Cretaceous.This suggests that this wing structure represents a short-lived and unsuccessful attempt to fly. In contrast, feathered wings, first documented in Late Jurassic non-avian dinosaurs, were further refined through the evolution of numerous skeletal and soft tissue modifications, giving rise to at least two additional independent origins of dinosaur flight and ultimately leading to the current success of modern birds. Americans know what it means when a president invokes the words executive privilege. It means that a president has decided that forthrightness is not the best course of action. That quote is from a Feb. 26, 1998, Chronicle editorial about President Bill Clintons legal and political machinations to frustrate the investigation of Independent Counsel Kenneth Starr. Executive privilege was back in the news this week when President Trump invoked it to block congressional access to the full Mueller report and its supporting evidence. As our editorial noted, Trump has now escalated his stonewalling to the point of absurdity. He has vowed to resist all congressional subpoenas from House Democrats trying to perform oversight of the executive branch. All this has led House Speaker Nancy Pelosi to suggest the president is just trying to goad us into impeachment. At this rate, it might just work. What were saying Consumer abuse: The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau was supposed to be on the side of, well, consumers. But it has been going in the wrong direction under the Trump administration. The latest example: giving debt collectors the ability to barrage Americans with unlimited text and email messages. As our editorial suggests, its time to barrage the bureau with comments. A tax too far: San Franciscos Board of Supervisors is considering taxing IPOs to raise money for programs that combat income inequality. It seems that some politicians in this city think the good times are going to last forever. This is a good way to put a chill on the innovation economy that is already a significant factor in the bulging city treasury, as our editorial notes. No Big Brother: San Francisco and Oakland are wisely moving to ban facial recognition technology. It has been widely used in China, with its paranoid and controlling government. One of the problems with this technology is that its error rate tends to be higher in identifying women and minorities. Our editorial encourages the two cities to pass the prohibition. Letter of the Week Photo evidence: Wednesdays strike by Uber and Lyft drivers brought this observation by Bob Wynne of San Francisco about the strike by Uber-Lyft drivers. He even sent us a photo to accentuate his fine letter: Bob Wynne Heres Sansome Street at Clay Street at noon Wednesday. What do you notice? Thats right, without ride sharing code for a very expensive. unnecessary alternative to walking - San Franciscos Financial District was returned to its rightful owners - workers, residents and yes, tourists. Delightful! Now, lets press ahead with plans to push the congestion-creating ride share vehicles out of downtown to centralized pickup points I suggest Main Street on the south and Fourth Street on the north, with allowances for the disabled. Lets return San Francisco to the people not the Priuses. And please check out our other letters of the day responding to this and other matters. You can send us a letter via this form. Keeping up with the candidates Kamala Harris: The California senators 2020 campaign was the focus of a New York Times story about how she is refocusing her campaign to take on President Trump more vigorously. She certainly showed her prosecutorial mettle last week in grilling Attorney General William Barr leading some Democrats to imagine her prowess in a debate with Trump. One of the interesting backstories in the piece: a disagreement among her key advisers about how far she should go to placate the far left. Eric Swalwell: The East Bay congressman was mocked by who else? Fox News for suggesting that President Trumps chummy call to Russian President Vladimir Putin after the Mueller report was akin to President George W. Bush calling Osama bin Laden after the 9/11 terrorist attacks or FDR calling the emperor of Japan after Pearl Harbor. I must say: Swalwells comparisons were a bit over the top. But no less crazy is the notion of the president of the United States failing to warn Putin in no uncertain terms that Russian meddling in the 2016 election well documented by Mueller must never happen again. Twitter.com Where to follow us Sign up for the newsletter Want to get the latest San Francisco Chronicle Editorial Board opinions in your inbox? Subscribe to Opinion Central. See More Collapse We have a new Twitter channel, Opinion Central (@sfc_opinions). Please add it to your stream. Youll catch our editorials and opinion pieces, as well as our drive-by comments on assorted subjects in the news. Follow me on Twitter: @JohnDiazChron Just a reminder The Chronicles editorials represent the collective judgment of our Editorial Board, which includes the publisher as well as the writers and editors from the opinion team. Our editors and reporters on the news side are not involved in those decisions (including election endorsements). They are charged with reporting fairly and objectively without regard to our editorial positions. It is one of the core values here at Fifth and Mission streets. Opinion Central is a thrice-weekly newsletter from John Diaz, The Chronicles editorial page editor, and the rest of the Editorial Board. Follow along on Twitter: @sfc_opinions President Trump has escalated his stonewalling against congressional oversight to the point of absurdity. On Wednesday, a Justice Department official sent a letter to Congress stating that Trump was invoking executive privilege to cover the entire report and supporting evidence from Special Counsel Robert Mueller. The House Judiciary Committee then voted 24-16 to recommend holding Attorney General William Barr, the keeper of that 448-page report, in contempt of Congress. Trumps executive privilege claim is all but certain to ignite a legal battle to test the limits of a presidents prerogative and the constitutional authority of Congress to hold an administration accountable. Congress has a strong case for access to the full report. Mueller laid out 10 examples of potential obstruction of justice by the president, though noting that a sitting president cannot be indicted. However, two presidents in recent history, Richard Nixon and Bill Clinton, have faced impeachment charges related to obstruction. Nixon resigned before a full House vote, and Clinton was acquitted in a Senate trial. Trumps move is a serious distortion of the executive privilege doctrine, which is designed to give a president the ability to have confidential discussions with aides. Courts have ruled that such privilege is waived when the information in question has been shared with others which would seem to be the case with former White House counsel Don McGahn and other White House advisers who were interviewed by Muellers team. But this is not the only demonstration of Trumps disdain for the principle of co-equal branches of government. He has vowed to resist all oversight subpoenas from House Democrats. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin refused a request for the presidents taxes, defying a century-old law about the congressional right to review any returns. Trump also has sued his banks to block subpoenas for his financial records. Moreover, Trump, reversing himself, now says Mueller should not testify before Congress. Trumps resistance to closer inspection of the special counsels probe sure is curious for a man who claimed it gave him complete and total exoneration. Anyone who read the report knows that is not the case. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi suggested Trump is just trying to goad us into impeachment. Given the presidents tactics, its hard to avoid that impression, or the question of what he is so determined to hide. 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. Can anyone be surprised that the 45th president is trying to deny Congress access to his tax returns and will likely try to block House testimony from former Special Counsel Robert Mueller? President Trump might have failed so far in his attempts to waste $6 billion of taxpayer money on a ridiculous border wall, but now hes trying to construct a virtual wall around any personal information about himself. Who could have ever imagined that America, a democracy established with three coequal branches of government, would devolve into an autocracy with only one commanding executive branch of government? Takeshi Hashimoto, Foster City Too much attention As the mother of three rambunctious kids, Im exasperated by the over-the-top attention being given by the media to the first child born to Meghan, Duchess of Sussex. So what if this boy is biracial, or will be seventh in line to the throne of an antiquated British monarchy? Unlike most ordinary moms, Meghan will have a staff of nannies and substantial financial resources to help raise her kid. The word struggle will never be part of her child care vocabulary. But to all of the non-royal women who face the joys and challenges of motherhood without such assistance or effusive praise, I offer two words you might not hear very often (except on Mothers Day): Thank you. Donna Delvecchio, Santa Clara Facial recognition profiling Regarding Oakland weighs ban on facial recognition software (May 8): I support a proposal by Oaklands Privacy Advisory Commission to ban the use of this technology by city departments, including the police. Black, Muslim and Hispanic citizens are already disproportionately targeted by law enforcement, and should not be under such surveillance, especially since it has been shown to incorrectly identify many dark-skinned individuals. My hometown city needs to practice brotherly love, not try to act like Big Brother. Demetrius McDaniel, Oakland Dreadful impact Regarding Humans accelerate rate of extinction, study finds (May 7): This article is about as dread-inducing as it gets with environmental news. It outlines the apocalyptic reality of current resource projections based on humankinds impacts. But while people read through this article, I hope that along with the dread that comes, there is also a fire of wanting to make a difference. We have bills in the U.S. House that are not getting publicity and could be the catalyst of the environmental policy change that we need to stop this Anthropocene. The Energy Innovation and Carbon Dividend Act (HR763), for example, is projected to lower American emissions by 40% in the first 12 years, while also creating millions of jobs. This may just be a start, but a start is what we need to make the impact necessary to survive the devastating realities described in this article. Elizabeth Goldstein, San Francisco Police have been militarized When I read Use of force by Vallejo police strikes family twice (May 6) by Otis R. Taylor Jr., I thought to myself, this is not the first time I have heard a similar story, and I know that many Bay Area natives can agree. Police in general have been militarized. As a Bay Area native from Oakland, I have seen it in my town as well. A similar story is that of Oscar Grant, who was shot dead on the platform of Fruitvale BART Station. Militarization is the challenged social process through which a civil society organizes for the production of military violence. This means that the United States is conditioning its police officers to contend with the military model, such as adopting the equipment, operational tactics, mind-sets and culture of the military. Militarizing police is a social issue because police are needed to enforce the peace and protect the people. As a police officer, you should be trained, not as the military, but as a civilian whose job it is to protect its citizens at all costs. Thank you for your time. Wuenzy Arellano, Oakland Picture tells story of strike Heres Sansome Street at Clay Street at noon on Wednesday. What do you notice? Thats right, without ride sharing code for a very expensive and unnecessary alternative to walking San Franciscos Financial District was returned to its rightful owners workers, residents and yes, tourists. Delightful! Now, lets press ahead with plans to push the congestion-creating, ride-hailing vehicles out of downtown to centralized pickup points I suggest Main Street on the south and Fourth Street on the north, with allowances for the disabled. Lets return San Francisco to the people not the Priuses. Bob Wynne, San Francisco A slick app may enrich tech companies and their CEOs, but that doesnt mean those CEOs have a right to rip off their employees. This must be our clear and straightforward message in support of Uber and Lyft drivers who are fighting for better pay. We can no longer accept a situation in which a tiny handful of Americans become extraordinarily wealthy by paying their workers starvation wages. Today, the median worker at these ride-booking services makes between $8.55 and $10 an hour. And yet in 2017, Lyfts CEO made more than $41 million and Ubers CEO was paid $45 million last year. Additionally, Uber executives this week are expected to become instant millionaires from the companys multibillion-dollar initial public offering on Wall Street. In the worlds wealthiest nation, we must take a stand: We must declare that people who work for multibillion-dollar companies should not have to work 70 or 80 hours a week to get by. And yet we must also understand that these workers are not merely being poorly paid, like so many other workers in America. These so-called gig economy workers are also being denied basic workplace protections and a fighting chance to obtain higher wages. That is because they are among the nearly 16 million workers who are paid as independent contractors, even though they are working full time. These are what we used to call employees but in many cases, their employers are deliberately misclassifying them as contract workers, which exempts them from labor protections under federal law. In practice, the misclassification prevents them from getting basic workplace protections and overtime pay and it makes it harder for workers to form a union. Meanwhile, when a local community like Seattle has passed a law to protect ride-booking service drivers right to unionize, corporations have fought to overturn the initiative. And now, shock of all shocks, President Trump the man who campaigned as a champion of workers is actively helping companies rip off workers. Trumps administration not only rescinded previous rules designed to classify gig economy workers as full-time employees, his Labor Department just this past week issued a get out of jail free card to employers such as Uber and Lyft to let them keep classifying their workers as independent contractors. That makes it harder for these workers to join unions, and harder for workers to sue when they are being fleeced. These rulings are a threat to all workers in America and they must be reversed. We need a Labor Department whose priority is not making more money for tech company executives who rip off workers. The Labor Departments first and only priority must be to protect workers rights. Together, we must reverse Trumps rulings, and pass legislation that Ive introduced which will bar these employers from continuing to misclassify their employees. Workers and their unions struggled for decades to create these worker protections that we too often take for granted. Those protections are now under attack, and we must stand in solidarity with the Uber and Lyft drivers who are today fighting back. They are making clear that while technology can often be an instrument of progress and efficiency, we cannot allow it to be another corporate weapon against workers. Sen. Bernie Sanders, independent-Vt., is a candidate for president. SACRAMENTO Riding the strength of surging tax revenues, Gov. Gavin Newsom proposed a revised $213 billion state budget Thursday that is $4 billion higher than his initial plan in January. But Newsom would set aside nearly half the additional money for paying down debts and for building reserves, potentially setting up a showdown with liberal lawmakers who have pushed for greater spending on health care, early childhood education and social services. Like his predecessor, former Gov. Jerry Brown, Newsom warned that the state needs to be ready for the next economic downturn. We are preparing for a very different climate, he said, and weve never been more prepared as a state for entering into that climate. His budget plan, which forecasts a surplus of $21.5 billion, largely prioritizes one-time spending over new programs that would continue indefinitely. Notable exceptions include Newsoms earlier proposals to offer a second year of free tuition for community college students and to expand Medi-Cal, the states health coverage for the poor, to undocumented young adults. After a March meeting with the mayors of Californias biggest cities, Newsom also revamped his approach to tackling the states housing and homelessness crises. His revised proposal would move $500 million to a program that funds infrastructure projects such as sewer hookups and sidewalks for new affordable housing, instead of handing it out as rewards for cities and counties that hit housing construction targets. Newsom proposed adding $300 million to his January funding plan for homelessness programs. The new money would pay for more mental health professionals, housing for university students and legal aid for tenants facing eviction. Half it would go toward homeless aid programs run by cities and counties, which were previously set to receive $500 million. That would make $650 million available next year to build emergency shelters, convert hotels and motels to housing, or launch navigation centers like those pioneered by San Francisco. The mayors with whom Newsom met in March told him that $500 million provided in this years budget had quickly run out. Look, this homeless issue is out of control, the governor said at a Sacramento news conference Thursday. It is a stain on the state of California. Newsom, who was elected with strong support from Californias powerful teachers unions, emphasized that his budget plan would designate far more for K-12 education than is constitutionally required under Proposition 98, the school-funding initiative approved by voters in 1988. Previous governors, he said, have treated that minimum like a ceiling. His revised proposal includes a nearly $700 million increase for special education funding, about $120 million more than he suggested in his initial budget in January. It would also redirect about $150 million to teacher training and paying off loans for newly credentialed teachers who agree to work in schools with high turnover. The money had originally been set aside to help California expand full-day kindergarten to every school district. Other proposed new spending includes $75 million to shore up the response to an expected increase in power shutoffs by utilities worried about sparking wildfires, and $71 million to launch a redesigned substance abuse program in California prisons, where drug overdoses are climbing. Newsom had already previewed on Tuesday a budget plan to benefit working families. His revised proposal would repeal sales taxes on diapers and menstrual products, a longtime priority of female lawmakers, though Newsom revealed Thursday that the repeal would expire after two years unless the Legislature renewed it. The proposal would also provide new parents with two additional weeks of paid leave, bringing the total to as much as four months per baby. The governor has said he eventually wants to extend that to six months. The revised budget proposal received a warm response Thursday from legislative leaders. But booming tax receipts portend challenges for Newsom with the Legislature, which must send a budget to the governor by June 15. Lawmakers, most of whom are now Democrats, have their own suite of big-dollar ideas that must be reconciled with Newsoms. They include a broader push to make Medi-Cal available to all undocumented immigrants, regardless of age. Assembly Democrats have floated a more aggressive outline to reach universal preschool than Newsom, who backed away Thursday from a January proposal to enroll all 4-year-olds from low-income families in state-subsidized child care over the next three years. Assemblyman Phil Ting, the San Francisco Democrat who chairs the Assembly Budget Committee, said Newsoms plan reflects the priorities of the Legislature, but they would haggle over the details in the weeks ahead and how much can be done within the limitations of the budget. A bigger challenge may be resistance to several new taxes Newsom has built into his budget plan. These include a monthly surcharge on water users to assist communities without clean drinking water, a fee on phone bills to update the states 911 system and an individual mandate to buy health insurance, which would carry a penalty that could fund insurance subsidies. Newsom also wants to make changes to the business tax code to pay for an expansion of Californias tax credit for the working poor. Although Democrats hold more than a two-thirds supermajority in both houses, which would allow them to raise taxes without any Republican votes, members from swing districts can point to Josh Newman as evidence that their constituents may be hostile to new taxes. Newman, a Democratic state senator narrowly elected in Orange County in 2016, was recalled last year after he voted to increase the states gas tax to pay for highway and transit improvements. I tell them nothing, Newsom said of lawmakers hesitant to vote for the taxes. I tell them, Do the right thing. Do what will make you proud. Alexei Koseff is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: alexei.koseff@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @akoseff WASHINGTON House Speaker Nancy Pelosi says the U.S. is in a constitutional crisis but she still is not ready to move forward with impeachment proceedings against President Trump. The San Francisco Democrats comments at a Capitol Hill news conference Thursday were the latest escalation of her language directed toward Trump. At the same time, she is seeking to hold back Democrats from pursuing more aggressive action to punish the White House. MORE: Get the story from The San Francisco Chronicle Pelosi said she agrees with House Judiciary Chairman Jerry Nadler, D-N.Y., who told CNN on Wednesday that certainly, it's a constitutional crisis. Nadler was referring to the showdown with the Trump administration over the release of Special Counsel Robert Muellers unredacted report into Russian interference in the 2016 election and Trumps potential obstruction of justice. Yes, I do agree with Chairman Nadler, because the administration has decided theyre not going to honor their oath of office, Pelosi said. The Judiciary Committee voted this week to hold Attorney General William Barr in contempt, as the committee and Justice Department could not come to an agreement over his testimony and after the White House invoked executive privilege to keep Congress from receiving the unredacted Mueller report and underlying evidence. The White House says it will not comply with any subpoenas in the House that the administration considers to be Democratic overreach. Pelosi said it may be some time before the contempt motion comes to the House floor for a vote. When were ready, well come to the floor, and well just see, because there may be some other contempt of Congress issues that we want to deal with at the same time, Pelosi said. Nadler wants to do it as soon as possible and so do we. Pelosi has been a consistent voice against launching impeachment proceedings against Trump. She said before the Mueller reports release that Trump was just not worth the consequences of impeachment and told fellow Democrats after the special counsels redacted findings were made public that congressional investigations would come first. I hate to disappoint some of you, but Im not struggling with this decision, she told her caucus. She said Thursday that even though she agrees that the U.S. is in a constitutional crisis, she still believes in restraint. We have investigations that will give us facts and the truth, Pelosi said, noting that in the case of President Richard Nixon, there were months of hearings and investigation before they got to a place where they had a compelling argument that even the Republicans had to go to the president and say, Its over. At the White House, Trump told reporters that he had been transparent with Mueller when I could have stopped everything. I gave them 1.5 million documents. Were protecting against crime committed on the other side. He added, Theres no crime. There never was a crime. This was a hoax. This comes back totally exonerating Donald Trump. He left open the possibility of Mueller testifying before Congress. saying it was up to Barr. The attorney general has previously said he does not object to Mueller speaking before lawmakers. A lesson in Burmese cuisine How do you judge a cuisine you dont know? Kyain Kyain, a Burmese restaurant in a strip mall in Fremont, presented a challenge that bore lessons beyond the plate. A lesson in Burmese cuisine How do you judge a cuisine you dont know? Kyain Kyain, a Burmese restaurant in a strip mall in Fremont, presented a challenge that bore lessons beyond the plate. Before I moved to San Francisco, this is what I knew about Burmese food: \_()_/ Yeah, not much. Im not proud of that fact, but I do think its important to be honest and lay out my cards from the outset to admit that an important and unseen part of being a restaurant critic is researching all of the cuisines I dont know and filling in the gaps as best as I can. I dont have to know everything about every cuisine to judge whether a restaurant experience is a good one, but it certainly helps to appreciate its context. I read, a lot. My self-education also involved going to as many of the local highlights as I could, with the hope of collecting data points. I waited in line at Burma Superstar, trekked out to Rangoon Ruby in Palo Alto, squeezed into Yamo and checked out a few others. Some patterns emerged. Burmese triangular samosas had similar fillings as their Indian counterparts, but were encased in thin spring roll wrappers and served in soups and salad; there is a stark cabbage versus lettuce divide in tea leaf salads; and the cuisines curries are a colonizers misnomer, bearing only a fleeting resemblance to the Indian or Thai dishes that exist under that umbrella. The roasted garlic noodles with chicken at Kyain Kyain restaurant in Fremont, Calif, on Saturday, April 20, 2019. The roasted garlic noodles with chicken at Kyain Kyain restaurant in Fremont, Calif, on Saturday, April 20, 2019. Photo: Michael Short / Special To The Chronicle Photo: Michael Short / Special To The Chronicle Image 1 of / 8 Caption Close You know nothing, Soleil Ho: At Kyain Kyain in Fremont, a lesson in Burmese cuisine 1 / 8 Back to Gallery Another important thing to do when you dont know: Ask a friend. So I reached out to Burmese food expert MiMi Aye, whose book, Mandalay: Recipes & Tales From a Burmese Kitchen (Bloomsbury), is due for release in August, to impart what she loves about the cuisine. Burmese food is a feast for the senses, she emailed. The aroma from a bubbling pot of pork and green mango curry; the vision of a rainbow salad of rice, carrots and coriander; the crackle and crunch of a handful of split pea fritters; and the sensation of noodles silky with turmeric chicken sauce. Sour and umami are the most prominent flavors in Burmese dishes, she explained, and in her words, textural contrast is essential. During my Bay Area research, the Burmese restaurant that stuck out the most, with both great service and food, was Kyain Kyain in Fremonts Sunset Village strip mall. (Aye told me that the name rhymes with fine, with the ky pronounced halfway between a J and a Ch. So, Jine Jine.) If one were to have a progressive meal through the shops in the very beige building that is Sunset Village, it would also include boba tea, lumpia, steamed monkfish liver, tofu soup and taco pizza. The Kyain Kyain menu is a straightforward collection of salads, brothy soups, noodles and curries pure comfort food, something confirmed by super fans on Facebook who praise the restaurant for its nostalgia factor. Kyain Kyain does feel like a home, even though its not my own. The coral pink walls are adorned with earnest abstract paintings, framed photos of Myanmar State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi and a Buddhist shrine. Though theres no music playing in the dining room proper, one can sometimes hear the plaintive strains of Burmese country music leak out of the kitchen. Mona Naing, who commands the front of house, is easy to talk to: She often pauses to find just the right word to explain something in English, clearly flipping through a mental dictionary. Sometimes, a gang of older women takes up the back table of the restaurant to do side work. On one visit, they giggled wickedly as Naing treated my table to a sample of off-menu shrimp cakes that had been fermented for 40 hours. (Trip report: similar to tart lemon bars, but shrimp.) The lahpet thoke (tea leaf salad, $9.99) is the best of the Bay Area. At Kyain Kyain, it comes already mixed, made with julienned green cabbage, halved grape tomatoes, dried shrimp, toasted legumes and seeds and tossed with fish sauce. The first time I had it, I noticed a pleasant, tongue-coating flavor that I couldnt quite figure out. It was kind of cheesy, in the way that nutritional yeast aims to be. Chickpea powder, Naing later told me. That same chickpea flour, or besan, caused the dressing that coated the noodle salad ($7.99) to taste uncannily like Kraft mac and cheese, activating a childhood association that made eating it incredibly pleasurable. By contrast, the samosa salad ($8.99), while beautiful in appearance, wasnt so fun to eat. The mixture of samosa pieces, raw onion slices, fried shallot and cilantro was heavy on cilantro stems, which impart a much stronger flavor than the leaves alone. That, coupled with a cloying tamarind-based dressing, overloaded my senses. Maybe if I could chase it with a hoppy beer I could do it, but alas Kyain Kyain only offers teas. Kyain Kyain Location: 3649 Thornton Ave., Fremont. (510) 574-1819 or www.kyainkyainfremont.com Hours: Lunch and dinner, Tuesday-Sunday. Accessibility: No steps. Good wheelchair access to tables. Gender-neutral restrooms. Noise level: On the low end; no music. Meal for two, sans drinks: $25-$40. What to order: Tea leaf salad, samosas ($7.99), yellow rice or paratha with chicken curry, noodle salad, pork bone soup. Plant-based options: Sparse; look out for the vegetable curry that is sometimes a special. Drinks: Nonalcoholic only. Transportation: Parking lot. Off the 251 AC Transit line; a short walk from the 99 AC Transit line. Best practices: Recently began accepting credit cards. Like pho joints, Kyain Kyain provides each table with an assortment of condiments for soup customization: sesame oil, fish sauce, hot sauce, dried chiles and white pepper. I did like that you could order a few tablespoons of fried chile mixed with dried shrimp for $1, a piquant condiment perfect for stirring into your otherwise-subtle pork bone soup ($5.99) or mohinga ($7.99), fish soup with noodles. (Naing confided to me that she likes to eat the chile mix on bread, so for a week after that visit I sprinkled my leftovers onto bagels with cream cheese and was very happy about it.) The chicken curry ($10.99) here was the oiliest Ive had yet. Ill be honest there was a split second where my French technique-trained mind thought, somethings wrong! But then I remembered a story that Nigerian-born chef-writer Tunde Wey told about making palm nut soup at one of his pop-ups: The restaurants chef walked by and grimaced at the thick layer of orange oil floating at the top of the pot, remarking that it had separated and that hed better start over. But in truth, thats how it was supposed to be. Its a similar tale in Burmese food. The most famous Burmese cooking technique is see-pyan, meaning the oil returns, Aye said. Its a way of cooking a curry down so much that the oil first disappears into the sauce and then rises back up. For Burmese diners, the saucier the curry, the better anything to make the most of it as a condiment on vegetables, rice and bread. I used the flaky, flat paratha to mix the oil into the gravy beneath it; in between bites, I dipped a fork into the side dish of raw onion and cucumber slivers, the taste of which rang through the currys fattiness like the triangle in Wagners Bridal Chorus. Unsurprisingly, this is a dish that will fill you up to a full KO. I would order it again and clear out my appointments for a few hours afterwards. Sometimes I get notes from Chronicle readers who are put off by menus with dishes they cant pronounce, whose fear of confusion keeps them from trying out restaurants often those run by recent immigrants. They tell me that they refuse to order dishes whose names theyve never spoken aloud, so many of my reviews are useless to them. (I should note here that these correspondents never complain about French or Italian terminology like coq au vin or spaghetti.) I hate to think that unpronounceability could present such a major barrier to the enjoyment of delicious food. It shouldnt be shameful to learn words in other languages, because at least youre trying. Stumbling through unfamiliar syllables might be new to someone who is used to having a default perspective, but its something that so many newcomers to this country have had to do every day since coming here. Its OK to mispronounce things. Its OK to ask questions if you dont know. You dont have to be an expert in everything, but that doesnt mean you shouldnt keep learning. Think of what youd be missing out on! I still stumble over lahpet thoke, but I can endure some embarrassment for a version as unforgettable as Kyain Kyains. Soleil Ho is The San Francisco Chronicle restaurant critic. Email: soleil.ho@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @hooleil Its 2019, and the boundaries are blurring. I go into wine shops and have to squint to tell the difference between bottles of sparkling wine and bottles of cider on the shelves. At my local beer bar, at least a quarter of the draft pours have peaches or boysenberry or wine grapes in them. Things I was always trained to dislike in wine like high concentrations of brettanomyces Im reconsidering as positive attributes if present in beer or cider. Clean, which always seemed the most innocuous of fermented beverage descriptors, is suddenly a dirty word in some drinking circles. Funk is in. Things fall apart; the center cannot hold. As a reporter, Im fascinated. The tides of drinking fashion are rolling! Even more exciting, the energy behind this embrace of funk has a pseudo-political edge to it. (A reporters dream.) Anarchic is how Bon Appetits Alex Delany puts it in a recent story. Funky, boundary-blurring beverages provoke our notions of what wine, beer or cider even is. And when these drinks ferment spontaneously, rather than being inoculated with lab yeast, Delany writes, they challenge our assumptions of control. A co-ferment of beer and blueberry juice that tastes like a savory Lambrusco? Thats what gets me out of bed in the morning, he announces. On an episode of his podcast The Grape Nation last October, Sam Benrubi asked Isabelle Legeron, who runs the natural-wine event Raw Wine Fair, what the next big thing in the natural-wine world was the next orange wine, the next pet-nat. Legeron didnt hesitate: co-fermentations of grapes with other fruits, like apple or quince. The rise of these co-fermentations, Legeron went on, is really exciting because, in a way, it harks back to you have a farm, you have a few apple trees, you have a few grapes, its what nature gives you. Even throwing in some honey from your hive. Yep, fascinating stuff. As a critic, though, I have some bones to pick. Were conflating a lot of disparate things here: Natural or spontaneously fermented beverages dont have to taste funky. Hybrids of beer/wine/cider dont have to be spontaneously fermented. This is correlation, not causation. We need to be more careful about helping consumers tell the difference between whats philosophically appealing (see: anarchic; what nature gives you) and whats physically appealing (does it taste good?). Im learning too. I dont know how to evaluate a beer thats also a cider and tastes like a wine. It defies everything I know about beer and cider and wine. Im open to engaging in a new set of standards for how we decide what to drink in fact, Im exhilarated by it. Like Delany, I usually request Give me something fun to drink when Im out at a restaurant or bar run by someone with interesting taste. Thats the ideal setting to discover something unusual: with a trustworthy guide. My hope is just that as we rewrite some of our expectations of what fermented beverages should be, we do it in a thoughtful way that doesnt dispense with standards entirely. A blanket embrace of anything funky is just as void as a blanket embrace of anything with a 100-point score. What Im watching Santiago Mejia / The Chronicle If you read any story by me this week, its statistically likely to be about Wine Country, the gal-pal flick directed by Amy Poehler which begins streaming on Netflix on Friday. (Seriously, I wrote three separate stories about it.) I shared a glass of wine in Napa recently with two of the films stars, Rachel Dratch and Liz Cackowski (who also co-wrote the screenplay), who told me about their real-life Wine Country trip that inspired the film. I was impressed with their swirling techniques and with their use of wine descriptors like jammy. (Later, Cackowski told me, We like to say things like jammy, but we dont really know.) Cackowski also mentioned shes a wine club member at several California wineries, including Robert Sinskey in Napa, plus Tablas Creek and Linne Calodo in Paso Robles. Its always the third winery that you visit where you end up joining the wine club, she said. You think that one is the winner, but it doesnt matter youre the drunkest at that point and you sign up and buy a sh**load of wine. She clarified that she also enjoys the wines from those three wineries when shes not drunk. Check out all our coverage of Wine Country: I examine the cultural trope of the Napa Valley girlfriends getaway, and argue that its problematic. On The Press, I reveal which wineries the characters visit in the film and which wine bottles you might spot them drinking from. What does Wine Country get right about going wine tasting in Napa, and what does it get wrong? I weigh in. Finally: film critic Carla Meyer reviews Wine Country. Food Guide Top 25 Restaurants Where to eat in the Bay Area. Find spots near you, create a dining wishlist, and more. What Im reading The word heritage gets thrown around a lot in the world of drinks, especially when it comes to cider. Olivia Maki, who owns Redfield Cider bar in Oakland, has a powerful piece about the ugly baggage that heritage brings with it, namely our countrys history of slavery. The Chronicles Washington correspondent Tal Kopan explains what the Congressional Wine Caucus does. (Hint: It has more to do with insects than with actual drinking.) If youre not really in the mood to read, Tal also explains the caucus on the Its All Political podcast. Our restaurant critic Soleil Ho reviews Verjus, the wine bar from Michael and Lindsay Tusk. (I wrote about Verjus wine program back in January.) Sign Up for the Newsletter Want to get the wine world in your inbox every week? Subscribe to Drinking with Esther. See More Collapse San Francisco is the best place in the country to drink but dont take it from me! On Monday, the James Beard Awards named our own Bar Agricole the winner for Outstanding Bar Program, and Benu for Outstanding Wine Program. Provocative headline alert: Weed tourism is the new wine tasting in California, says my colleague Melia Russell. A veteran fire code inspector on Wednesday testified that anyone who changes a facilitys use is required to keep that building up to fire code. Sprinklers, exit doors and smoke and fire detectors could mean the difference between life and death inside a burning building, expert witness Cesar Avila told Ghost Ship trial jurors. Heightened standards are required for residential buildings or places of assembly compared to unoccupied storage areas, he said. After more than an hour of testimony, prosecutor Casey Bates had set the stage for a key question to Avila: If a building is converted from storage to residential or assembly space, who bears responsibility for keeping the building up to code? The person making the change, Avila said. Prosecutors are expected to use Avilas statements, along with testimony from other witnesses, to show the defendants Derick Almena, 49, and Max Harris, 29 converted the warehouse into a death trap and should share the blame for the Dec. 2, 2016, blaze that killed 36 people at a music show. Almena, who was the master tenant of the artist collective warehouse, and Harris, its creative director, are each charged with 36 counts of involuntary manslaughter. Meanwhile, defense attorneys attempted to redirect the blame onto city and county officials, whose job is to understand the fire code and flag buildings for dangerous conditions. Curtis Briggs, a defense attorney for Harris, made this point Wednesday morning during his cross-examination of Avila. Briggs asked Avila about building codes, rules and regulations, as well as the purpose of the code. Harris asked if this code was created on decades of acquired knowledge. Sometimes we refer to the code as being written in blood and ashes, Avila said. Throughout his questioning, Briggs attempted to show that only an expert could understand all the intricacies of the fire code, and it was a professionals job to explain it to non-experts, like Almena and Harris. Briggs also attempted to shift blame to the owners of the building, the Ng family, because at least one family member allegedly was present when Almena spoke about making changes to the space. Defense attorneys have also suggested that a band of arsonists were to blame for the inferno. Later in the day, prosecutors called to the stand Jennifer Turner, who lived at Ghost Ship for about 45 days in 2014. Turner said she responded to a Craigslist ad for a psychedelic pirate ship while she was looking for housing. Almena and another man gave her a tour of the building, and Almena explained that he wanted a community to construct infrastructure and to use their imaginations, she said. Also, Turner said, it was to be understood as an artists 24-hour space, even though people were living there. Turner told Bates she understood the message to mean that no one should tell the landlord or authorities that the space was being used as housing. The evening of Dec. 2, 2016, a massive blaze tore through the Ghost Ship warehouse, where about 100 people had gathered for an electronic music party. The space was a labyrinth of passageways crammed with flammable materials, firefighters later said. A stack of wooden pallets served as the only unblocked stairway to and from the second floor, where the party was being held. There were no fire exits. Seven victims were later recovered from the second floor, in a section that didnt collapse or burn but showed extensive smoke damage. The 29 other people were found either in the rubble from a partial collapse of the second floor or on the ground floor. All 36 died of smoke inhalation. Testimony in the trial is expected to last 12 to 18 weeks. Megan Cassidy is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: megan.cassidy@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @meganrcassidy ELK GROVE, Calif. (KCRA) The owner of an Elk Grove heating and air conditioning business is warning customers that someone is impersonating their technicians and in one case, showed up at a customer's home. Jason Richardson is the owner of Elite Heating and Air Conditioning. He said a Sacramento woman tried to call his business through the Yelp app last week. But somehow, after she clicked the "call" button on the app, an impostor answered the phone claiming to be the owner. "Whoever answered the phone said that they were 'Jason with Elite Heating and Air Conditioning' and were in the neighborhood and could be at the house within the hour," Richardson said. Two men showed up at the woman's house, one pretending to be Jason, as they scoped out her home. More for you Tiny fawn stuck in Pacifica storm drain rescued by firefighters "They walked around her home, talked to her about her heating and air conditioning problem," Richardson said. "What goes through my mind is, things that could have happened to her, her home, her possessions and implications on our business." According to Richardson, the duo left the woman's house and promised they would send an estimate. However, a few days passed by and she did not hear from them. She called Elite to follow up and the real Jason Richardson got that call. That is when they realized something was not right. "I had availability to immediately drive out there and talk to her, meet her face-to-face," he said. "As soon as she opened the door, she said, 'I've never met you in my life.'" Richardson said his business' Yelp page displayed a phone number provided by Yelp to keep track of customer calls. He said someone is now keeping track of him. "Technology is great when it works, technology is bad when it doesn't work or when it works in the wrong hands," he said. Now, the business owner is taking extra security measures to keep his team and customers safe, including sending custom text messages to clients. "Pictures of the technician, a little bio of the technician so that the consumer knows who's showing up at their home," he said. "I think that any businesses is susceptible to it as a certain point." A Yelp spokesperson said the company is investigating. Follow this story to get instant e-mail alerts from KCRA on the latest developments and related topics. This story originally appeared on KCRA. Yosemite National Park began limiting the number of hikers on Half Dome with a permitting system introduced in 2010 with the intention of improving safety. The process was implemented after four people died in four years. But a new study finds rescues per person doubled after the park significantly reduced hikers on the mountain by requiring a permit. "It appears there's no safety benefit for decreasing the crowd and that's counterintuitive," said Dr. Susanne Spano, an associate professor at UCSF Fresno who worked on the study. The 14.2-mile round-trip trek to the top of Half Dome includes a precarious section near the summit with cable handrails. This stretch is notoriously tricky, especially with wet weather, and hikers can fall and get stuck here, leading to accidents and rescues. The permits distributed through a lottery system provide access to the cables, which are usually in place from about Memorial Day to mid-October. Nearly 1,200 visitors per day made it to the cables section of Half Dome up until 2008, according to the Sierra Club. Now permits are capped at 300 per day. ALSO: Go now: Yosemite's waterfalls won't look like this all year The team from UCSF Fresno analyzed search and rescue data and found there were 134 individuals rescued on the mountain from 2005-09 before permitting began. That number was 156 between 2011-15, after permitting reduced the number of hikers by 66 percent. "I think the only thing you can say is we really need more data," said Spano. Google announced new privacy tools Tuesday intended to give people more control over how theyre being tracked on the go or in their own home, part of a broader effort by big tech companies to counter increasing scrutiny of their data collection practices. Trouble is, few experts appear ready to celebrate Googles moves. CEO Sundar Pichai kicked off the companys annual developer conference in Mountain View this week by noting that the company wants to do more to stay ahead of constantly evolving user expectations on privacy. The company demonstrated how many of its artificial intelligence capabilities including some facial recognition and voice searches are beginning to be processed on devices, rather than by constantly sending information to company servers. Some critics, however, say Googles privacy updates sidestep more substantial changes that could threaten its ad-driven business model. Theyre sort of marginal improvements, said Jeremy Tillman, president of Ghostery, which provides ad-blocking and anti-tracking software. They are not bad, but they almost seem like theyre designed to give the company a better messaging push instead of making wholesale improvements to user privacy. Google also announced updates for its artificially intelligent voice assistant as well as a cheaper Pixel phone and a rebranding of its smart-home products. Data privacy and security at Google and its counterparts have been under the microscope for more than a year now. Facebook dedicated much of its own conference last week to connecting people though more private channels rather than broadly on the social network. Google announced smaller but tangible changes on many of its products. The company makes billions of dollars annually by selling digital ads that are tailored to the interests people reveal through their search requests and data collected by Google apps and services. For instance, the company said it will extend an incognito mode feature to its Google Maps and search apps. When activated, the app wont record user searches or movements, analogous to how the same feature works in its Chrome browser and on YouTube. The latest version of Googles Android phone software will also alert users when apps may be exploiting access to phone location data, which Stephanie Cuthbertson, an Android senior director, called some of your most personal information. Android Q, as the new operating system is known, will also let users restrict apps access to location more generally for instance, by only allowing apps currently in use to gather the data. (Some apps record location data continuously in the background.) Location data has been a sore subject for Google. In 2018, an Associated Press investigation found that Google continued storing phone location data even when users turned off a location history setting in Android. The company also revealed plans to overhaul Chrome to let users rein in tracking cookies, which are bits of software that follow people around on the web. The move, which could have major repercussions for the digital advertising industry, would require companies to identify cookies used by third-party websites and advertisers to track users. Unimpressive, declared Princeton computer scientist Jonathan Mayer, who said the scheme would be easy for advertisers to evade. This is not privacy leadership this is privacy theater. Google said that change will enable users to clear most of those tracking cookies without disturbing others that keep users logged into sites or that personalize website settings. Chrome currently allows people only to clear all cookies. Competing browsers such as Apples Safari and Mozillas Firefox already build in privacy tools to block sites from tracking online activity. To Marc Rotenberg, president of the Electronic Privacy Information Center, the privacy measures remain unimpressive. Unless the Federal Trade Commission is prepared to bring enforcement actions against companies, these promises to protect privacy matter very little, he said. Google said its digital assistant will get a series of artificial intelligence updates this year, including one that lets it book rental cars and movie tickets. Google says its assistant will be able to make the bookings using online forms on Android phones later this year. The technology behind this, called Duplex, was announced with much fanfare last year when Google demonstrated it making a call to book a restaurant reservation. Google Assistant will get shrunk down so that it can work directly on a phone, eliminating the need to communicate with Googles cloud servers to understand and act on certain commands. The phone-only capability will be available on new Pixel phones this year. Google also announced a new, cheaper Pixel phone and a larger smart home display called the Nest Hub Max. Both are packed with artificial intelligence capabilities, including many that do not send information to servers. The Nest Hub Max signals the integration of Nest into Google. The $229 display screen is similar to last years Home Hub, now renamed the Nest Hub, although the new product adds a camera made for video calling that can be turned on and off. The hub can also be set to recognize different household members using facial recognition again all the device itself, not in the cloud. Rachel Lerman and Matt OBrien are Associated Press writers. People visit the 2019 World Ports Conference in Guangzhou, south China's Guangdong Province, May 8, 2019. The conference, organized by the International Association of Ports and Harbors (IAPH), will see over 1,000 representatives from more than 50 countries. (Xinhua/Deng Hua) GUANGZHOU, May 8 (Xinhua) -- The 2019 World Ports Conference opened Wednesday in Guangzhou, capital of southern China's Guangdong Province, as port industry leaders gather to discuss common challenges and opportunities. The conference, organized by the International Association of Ports and Harbors (IAPH), will see over 1,000 representatives from more than 50 countries. The participants will discuss new opportunities brought by China's Belt and Road Initiative, the new challenges brought by new technologies to the industry and the sustainable development of ports, according to the IAPH. China has seven of the world's top 10 ports for both cargo and containers in terms of throughput and ranks first in the world in terms of the scale of the port. The IAPH has about 300 members from nearly 90 countries and regions. The members contribute to 60 percent of the world's total seaborne trade and 80 percent of seaborne container traffic. 3 1 [ Editor: zyq ] WASHINGTON The FBI has more than 850 open investigations into domestic terrorism across the country, and the threat continues to grow, top counterterrorism officials said Wednesday. FBI, Justice Department and Homeland Security officials gave testimony before a congressional committee on homegrown hate and violence. They cautioned lawmakers they could not prosecute a white supremacist simply for the ideology or an online manifesto there must be intent to harm or harass. Fast food restaurant Chick-Fil-A may soon be kicked off campus at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, if a push by the school's academic senate to get the chain franchise removed is underscored by university President Jeffrey Armstrong. Faculty that make up the campus organization point to Chick-Fil-A Foundation's history of donating to anti-LGBT causes, noting that its values are not consistent with those of the university. In a vote Tuesday, the vast majority of the academic senate (38 out of 44) opted to recommend getting rid of the chicken chain's location despite its 25-year tenure on campus. RELATED: City staff to recommend against zoning change for Chick-Fil-A "We don't sell pornography in the bookstore and we don't have a Hooters on campus we already pre-select those kind of things based on our existing values," said academic senate Vice Chair Thomas Gutierrez to the on-campus publication Mustang News. "This is a similar thing, the difference is we're actually profiting from this. So our money, every dollar a student is spending at Chick-Fil-A, is going to these causes that are in violation of our values." In response, university spokesman Matt Lazier released two statements. One voiced a hesitation to "censor" a business because of different viewpoints, as KSBY reports. In a subsequent comment, Lazier stated that the school aims to be inclusive above all else: "While university administration passionately disagrees with the values of some of the organizations the president of Chick-fil-A has chosen to make personal donations to, we do not believe in responding to intolerance with intolerance," he told KSBY. "Rather, we must model our values of inclusion that means upholding the rights of others to have different perspectives and ensuring there is space in our community for differing viewpoints and ideologies, even those that may be in direct conflict with our own." RELATED: San Jose politicians consider ways to make new airport Chick-fil-A 'gayest in the country' If the university does wind up deciding to remove the restaurant, it would need to curtail a five-year contract extension on the location, signed in 2018. It would likely be expensive to terminate the contract, but the academic senate hopes that the university will see that "(business) partners are held to the same high diversity and inclusion standards of as the rest of the campus community." It's not the first time this Chick-Fil-A location has sparked a debate. In 2012, about 50 protesters held a national "Kiss-In" at the Cal Poly franchise the only one in San Luis Obispo County to protest the company president's anti-LGBT comments. In the Bay Area, local city officials are similarly attempting to navigate what to do about Chick-Fil-A stores. In April, San Jose politicians openly considered ways to make a planned San Jose Airport Chick-Fil-A the "gayest in the country." Alyssa Pereira is an SFGATE staff writer. Email her at apereira@sfchronicle.com or find her on Twitter at @alyspereira. Procrastinators looking for last-minute spots to celebrate their mom on Mothers Day will be glad to know that San Francisco has options. Yelp sent over a list of restaurants in San Francisco that dont take reservations, so as to give those that didnt plan ahead (sorry mom, we love you) a fair shot at getting a table this Mothers Day. Can't spring for an Outside Lands ticket this year? Hardly Strictly Bluegrass is still a ways away, but another free San Francisco music festival is back to tide you over this summer: Phono del Sol. Returning from its one-year hiatus, the free festival in Potrero del Sol Park just announced its lineup. Phono del Sol will feature synth-pop outfit Porches, Seattle indie rock group Chastity Belt, Oakland hip-hop collective SOLDevelopment, East Bay experimental artist SPELLLING, and more. LOS ANGELES A 57-year-old man identified in court records as the longtime companion of Los Angeles real estate mogul Cynthia Beck was arrested Wednesday after authorities seized more than 1,000 guns from a home in Holmby Hills. Girard Saenz was taken into custody on suspicion of unlawful transportation and of giving, lending or selling an assault weapon. He is being held in lieu of $50,000 bail, according to the Los Angeles Police Department and court records. Authorities discovered the cache of weapons while serving a search warrant at the home in the 100 block of North Beverly Glen Boulevard at 4 a.m. Wednesday as part of a joint LAPD and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigation. Police launched the probe after they received an anonymous tip about a person manufacturing and selling guns at the home, said Officer Mike Lopez, an LAPD spokesman. The Bel-Air mansion was described by authorities as a hoarders paradise with guns strewn throughout the house. Court records show the property is owned by Cynthia Beck, who has three daughters with J. Paul Gettys son Gordon Getty. Beck bought the property in January 2001, but it remains unclear what, if any, connection she has to Wednesdays events. Beck could not be reached for comment. Public records show Beck and Saenz together own several pieces of property in Los Angeles and an office building in San Francisco. Saenz has been a licensed general building contractor since 1994 and operates a business called Gerry Saenz and Associates, according to public records. The business address is a home on North Bunker Hill Avenue in Los Angeles that he owns with Beck. The ATF said in a statement that its agents searched the Holmby Hills home after discovering an individual was illegally selling firearms outside the scope of the federal license the person possesses. Video of the raid shows what appear to be ATF officials reviewing the trove of guns stacked on the ground, examining boxes and taking photographs of evidence. The stockpile of weapons which included rifles, shotguns, assault weapons and pistols was loaded into the back of a large box truck and driven off the property. The weapons will be itemized and booked into evidence, said Lt. Chris Ramirez, an LAPD spokesman. Jaclyn Cosgrove, Hannah Fry, Richard Winton and Alejandra Reyes-Velarde are Los Angeles Times writers. WASHINGTON Beto ORourke has hired one of the masterminds behind Barack Obamas unlikely 2008 primary victory, part of the Democratic candidates efforts to balance his freewheeling style with the organizational demands of a presidential campaign. Delegate guru Jeff Berman began working for ORourke in April. In his role as senior adviser for delegate strategy, Berman will oversee the campaigns efforts to navigate the complicated process of amassing enough delegates to secure the Democratic nomination. His work in a similar role is credited with helping catapult Obama past favorite Hillary Clinton during the 2008 race. The move signals that ORourke is taking steps to professionalize his White House campaign, which he launched in March. He resisted similar efforts during the 2018 Texas Senate race that turned him into a national political star, eschewing pollsters, consultants and prepared speeches. He ultimately lost that contest to Republican Sen. Ted Cruz by 2 percentage points. In outward appearance, ORourkes presidential campaign has a similar feel to his Senate bid. He often drives himself to campaign events, with a small team of campaign aides crammed into the backseats of a minivan. Direct-to-camera posts of the candidate on social media rack up thousands of views. But behind the scenes, ORourke has been recruiting top-flight talent to his El Paso, Texas-based campaign. Jennifer OMalley Dillon, another former Obama adviser, is serving as campaign manager. Rob Flaherty recently signed on as digital director after stints at the Democratic super PAC Priorities USA and Clintons 2016 campaign. Though Berman is not a household name outside of Washington, he is widely considered an unsung hero of Obamas 2008 victory for his mastery of the delegate allocation process. Democratic primary contests are not winner-take-all, meaning candidates can rack up delegates even without winning the most votes. Bermans strategy put Obamas delegate lead out of reach for Clinton, even as the two traded statewide victories through the end of the primary season. ORourke said Bermans expertise will help us put people back at the center of our democracy as we ensure every voice is heard during the most consequential election of our lifetimes. Julie Pace is an Associated Press writer. President Trumps increased tariffs on $200 billion in Chinese imports took effect as of 12:01 Eastern time Friday, escalating tensions with Beijing. The Trump administration raised the import taxes on the goods from 10% to 25%. China has threatened to retaliate if Trump proceeded with his threat to raise those tariffs. The Trump team is intensifying its trade war with Beijing, which it says reneged on commitments it had made in earlier trade talks. The tariff increase took effect even after negotiators for the two sides resumed talks Thursday in Washington. The talks were due to resume Friday after wrapping up without any word on progress. The higher import taxes wont hit goods that already left Chinese ports before Fridays deadline. Only when those shipments complete the three- to four-week voyage across the Pacific to the U.S. would they face the 25% tariff. The talks in Washington were thrown into disarray this week after top U.S. trade negotiator Robert Lighthizer and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin accused the Chinese of reneging on commitments theyd made earlier. The countries are sparring over U.S. allegations that China steals technology and pressures American companies into handing over trade secrets, part of an aggressive campaign to turn Chinese companies into world leaders in robotics, electric cars and other advanced industries. The setback was unexpected. Through late last week, Trump administration officials were suggesting that negotiators were making steady progress. U.S. officials say they got an inkling of Chinas second thoughts about commitments in talks last week in Beijing, but that the backsliding became even more apparent in exchanges over the weekend. They wouldnt identify the specific issues involved. On Sunday, President Trump took to Twitter to express frustration with the pace of the talks. The Trade Deal with China continues, but too slowly, as they attempt to renegotiate. No! Trump tweeted, threatening to raise the tariffs. He also said hed go further and slap 25% tariffs on another $325 billion in Chinese imports, covering everything China sells the United States. U.S. officials are insisting that any deal be strictly enforced so that China lives up to its promises something they say Beijing has repeatedly failed to do in the past. WASHINGTON The House Judiciary Committee voted Wednesday to recommend the House hold Attorney General William Barr in contempt of Congress for failing to turn over Robert Muellers unredacted report, hours after President Trump asserted executive privilege to shield the full report and underlying evidence from public view. The committees 24-16 contempt vote, taken after hours of debate that featured apocalyptic language about the future of American democracy, marked the first time that the House has taken official action to punish a government official or witness amid a standoff between the legislative and executive branch. The Justice Department decried it as an unnecessary and overwrought reaction designed to stoke a fight. The drama raised the stakes yet again in an increasingly tense battle over evidence and witnesses as Democrats investigate Trump and his administration. By the days end, it seemed all but inevitable that the competing claims would have to be settled in the nations courts rather than on Capitol Hill, as Democrats had initially hoped after the initial delivery of Muellers report. Our fight is not just about the Mueller Report although we must have access to the Mueller report. Our fight is about defending the rights of Congress, as an independent branch, to hold the president, any president, accountable, Rep. Jerrold Nadler, D-N.Y., the Judiciary Committee chairman, said during a grueling debate that ended with a vote along party lines. The executive privilege assertion was Trumps first use of the secrecy powers as president. The Justice Department described it as protective to allow Trump time to fully review the materials to make a final privilege determination. But the timing of the assertion signaled that the White House is eager for a fight, and the White House press secretary, Sarah Huckabee Sanders, indicated that no change of heart was coming. The American people see through Chairman Nadlers desperate ploy to distract from the presidents historically successful agenda and our booming economy, she said in a statement. Neither the White House nor Attorney General Barr will comply with Chairman Nadlers unlawful and reckless demands. Democrats view the presidents privilege claim as bunk, since much of the report and evidence have either been released publicly or shared with lawyers in the special counsel case. If the full House follows the committees recommendation, it would be only the second time in American history that the nations top law enforcement official is found to be in contempt of Congress. It was not immediately clear when such a vote would occur, and the intervening period could allow Barr time to negotiate a compromise. Barr released a redacted version of the special counsels 448-page report voluntarily last month. But Democrats say that is not good enough, and they have accused the attorney general of stonewalling a legitimate request, and then subpoena for, material, including secretive grand jury information and other evidence, they need to carry out an investigation into possible obstruction of justice and abuse of power by Trump. Nicholas Fandos is a New York Times writer. SAN DIEGO Federal officials announced Thursday that they have filed 109 hate crime charges against the man accused of a deadly attack on a Southern California synagogue, saying that after the suspect fled he called a 911 dispatcher to report that he had done it to defend my nation against the Jewish people. U.S. Attorney Robert Brewer Jr. said he will decide whether to seek the death penalty in the case against John Earnest stemming from last months shooting at Chabad of Poway, in a suburb north of San Diego. The new charges also include an earlier arson at a nearby mosque. We will not allow our community members to be hunted in their houses of worship, where they should feel free and safe to exercise their right to practice their religion, Brewer said at news conference in San Diego on Thursday to announce the charges. The federal charges include murder for the killing of 60-year-old Lori Kaye, who was hit twice as she prayed in the foyer. It also includes a charge for the attempted murder of 53 others. Three people were wounded, including an 8-year-old girl, her uncle and Rabbi Yisroel Goldstein, who was leading a service at the Chabad of Poway synagogue on the last day of Passover, a major Jewish holiday. Goldstein lost a finger. According to a federal affidavit, Earnest legally bought a semi-automatic rifle from a licensed dealer in San Diego a day before the April 27 attack. He walked into the synagogue with the AR-15 style semi-automatic rifle that was fully loaded with a 10-round magazine. He wore a chest rig with five more magazines carrying a total of 50 bullets. He emptied his magazine. The shooting stopped as he struggled to reload it. Thats when several members of the congregation, including an off-duty Border Patrol Agent, chased Earnest from the synagogue. After the gunman fled the scene, he called 911 from his car and told a dispatcher that he had opened fire at a synagogue, thought he killed some people and said he did it because Im just trying to defend my nation from the Jewish people... Theyre destroying our people, according to the federal affidavit. He went on to tell the dispatcher that he did it because the Jewish people are destroying the white race. Julie Watson and Elliot Spagat are Associated Press writers. When you want a business to be successful, you need a great product or service and a team ready to deliver it. However, building the team behind that business can be challenging. On average, new hires tend to leave a company within 18 months. This is often because they werent a good fit for the role in the first place, and the recruitment process wasnt thorough. As many businesses learn -- the hard way -- a bad hire can result in significant financial cost and harm to a businesss reputation. Related: How to 'Hire Smarter' Using Talent-Acquisition Technology So, how do you make the best hire possible? One of the key moves here is to widen your search as much as possible. Rather than working with a recruiter (who will often just post ads on job boards), you might try some of the ideas below. If the in-house efforts describes fail to turn up the right candidates, then it's time to turn to a professional recruiter. 1. Use premium job sites. Job sites like Indeed and Glassdoor can be good for finding junior candidates, but ensuring that that job ad is seen by the best candidates possible is the challenge. For that reason, there's a lot of benefit in moving away from the standard job boards and instead looking at premium sites that offer more than simple ad posting. For instance, a site like themuse.com isnt a normal job-boards site, as it offers career services and helps organizations and candidates connect. A site like this may help your opening get noticed by better-qualified candidates who are more active and engaged in their job search. 2. Promote your vacancies through fresh mediums. Another way to grow the reach of your candidate search is to find more engaging ways to advertise. Making use of YouTube and podcasts by mentioning open positions toward the end of your content can bring you candidates via word of mouth. Videos and podcasts also can be further shared via social media, your website, email, LinkedIn and other platforms. Related: Related: Don't Let Technology Make Recruiting a Lost Art -- Here's Why. This particular approach can offer a potential candidate a better look at your company and culture before he or she gets in touch. In fact, onsidering today's growth in visual media consumption across the internet, recruitment via video ads and video applications may very well become the new norm. 3. Engage passive candidates. "Passive" candidates are those who arent actively seeking a new position but might be interested were the right approach made. For more senior positions, people who are already actively working elsewhere may be the best candidates to speak to. Approaching passive candidates should be a separate category for your recruitment strategy, as it will require a different, often more sensitive, form of outreach. Employing a headhunter here can help, but some simple research through a tool like LinkedIn will go a long way toward finding these candidates. Any email communications you send to this group also will have to be carefully drafted, with the writer bearing in mind any risks of competitors being aware you are targeting their employees. Another way to meet passive candidates? Virtual career fairs are becoming more popular. These are more likely to attract passive job seekers who are reluctant to go to standard job fairs for fear that their current employer will find out. Articles like this one from CNBC are helping to promote virtual career fairs as the future of recruitment. 4. Host an open house day. An open house day is the term for a day in the office when you show candidates around your business and speak to them in an informal setting. These events are often attended by serious job hunters and are a good way to see if they will fit your company culture. For the event, you can bring in staff from different departments to question candidates and provide a second opinion on their qualifications and competency. Having members of your staff mingle with the candidates in this way will allow candidates to relax and be themselves. 5. Use social media. Social media recruitment is growing more popular, for an obvious reason: Apps like Facebook, Twitter and Linkedin are more convenient than phone or email. A fast, initial conversation carried out via a messenger service can go a long way in saving you time when you're recruiting. The added personal dynamic of a candidate's social media history, with that history's photos and posted opinions, will give a potential recruiter a solid impression of the person as well. LinkedIn is particularly important here; it's the obvious recruitment outreach tool, and, according to a Jobvite survey, more than nine out of ten companies polled said they use it as part of their recruitment process. However, other platforms like Facebook (used by two-thirds) and Twitter (54 percent) are also being used to attract and search for candidates for open positions. 6. Don't forget virtual reality. Virtual reality may sound like a scenario where the recruiter is "pushing the boat out too far," but some companies actually have made good use of VR in their recruitment process. The online store Jet has created a VR experience for its candidates, which helps it hire people from across the globe. An interactive recruitment experience that allows potential candidates to (figuratively) immerse themselves in a companys physical environment and get to know its culture first-hand could send all the right signals. It shows that the business cares a lot about its recruitment process while introducing a much-needed element of fun into the process. Related: Streamlining the Hiring Process with the Aid of Technology Conclusion Dont be rushed into hiring someone who isnt a good fit for your business. Instead, look for more innovative ways to improve and expand your recruitment process, while saving time for your HR department. By improving your candidate pool, and ensuring that your candidates understand the culture they will be working in, you can save time and help your company grow from strength to strength. Related: 6 Ideas For How You Can Avoid Making Any More Bad Hires Small Business Week Is Here, So Turn Your Idea Into Reality With This Starter Kit How to Hire the Right Freelancer Copyright 2019 Entrepreneur.com Inc., All rights reserved He was a renowned artist and movie star. He loved to eat snacks bananas, bread and plums were his favorite. He was also a philanthropist, raising thousands of dollars for his friends in the wild from all over the world. Benghazi, the Oakland Zoo's well-known painting giraffe, died Wednesday after complications due to a back injury. He had just celebrated his twenty-third birthday on March 26. "All of our animals are obviously very important to us, but he was truly special," the zoo's marketing and communications director, Erin Harrison, said. "Our keepers are heartbroken. There are a lot of tears." Benghazi was born at the zoo in 1996 and spent his life "surrounded by his literal family members brothers, sisters, nephews, nieces, and his mother, who passed away some time before him," according to Harrison. His brother, Balthazar, 21, and sister Twiga, 25, are still at the zoo. Giraffes are usually a popular attraction, but Benghazi was especially known for his ability to paint. A recurring participant in the zoo's "Animal Art Show," Benghazi's abstract brushstrokes on canvas were among the works of art sold to raise money for giraffe conservation programs around the world. One of the organizations, the Reticulated Giraffe Project, aims to raise awareness about the reticulated or Somali giraffe, one of nine currently recognized subspecies of the animal. Recent genetic research suggests the giraffe could merit full species status. Funds raised by Benghazi's paintings have helped support the organization's research of the animals' behavioral ecology and population processes. Jessica Chapman, Benghazi's lead keeper for the past seven years, said he learned to paint at a young age and appeared to enjoy doing it. When keepers would bring out the brushes, paint and other art supplies, Benghazi would immediately begin to walk over. Apparently, it was a challenge to take the brush away from the budding artist keepers had to train him to let go of it. "He would try to eat the paint brush," Chapman said. Anyone who came to the periodic giraffe feedings at the zoo likely encountered Benghazi's boisterous personality and prominent physique. At around 16 feet, he was the second-tallest giraffe at the zoo and had an attitude to match. "He would push past all of his brothers, sisters and herdmates to get to the food. It was very common to see him try to steal the snack out of another giraffe's mouth," Chapman said. "You could always look to him to make you laugh." Benghazi didn't just help other animals during his lifetime. Several years ago, he was trained to wear a GoPro camera in order to depict the sky-high perspective of a giraffe for the 2016 National Geographic documentary "Last of the Longnecks." Directed by Ashley Scott Davison, the film explores the plight of giraffes, the implications of poaching and how scientists are attempting to save the dying species. It was screened at the San Francisco Green Film Festival in 2017. He also served as a research partner of sorts for a scientist in South Africa learning how to better investigate giraffes in the wild. Benghazi tried on different types of collars on his ossicones the "horns" of a giraffe for comfort and fitting purposes. The collars are now used to help study the patterns of giraffes in the wild, which are normally difficult to track because they travel long distances and don't always move in herds. This tracking could help provide the science necessary to further conservation efforts. "He knew he had an important job and was a really great teacher for a lot of people," Chapman said. "That was the most special thing about him." Benghazi's last painting will be up for raffle at the zoo's annual World Giraffe Day on June 15. All proceeds from the event will go to the Reticulated Giraffe Project. FARGO, N.D., May 08, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Noridian Healthcare Solutions, LLC (Noridian) has been re-awarded a $48 million contract by the Iowa Department of Human Services, concluding a competitive procurement. With this re-award, Noridian will continue its work administering Iowa Medicaid, which it has done since the inception of the Iowa Medicaid Enterprise (IME) in 2004. Staff supporting this contract are located in Des Moines, Iowa, and Fargo, North Dakota. The award reflects Noridians strong performance and ability to provide value throughout the contract, said Paul Wilson, Noridian President and CEO. This is a direct reflection of the great work our staff does each and every day in support of the Iowa Medicaid Program. As the Core MMIS Services contractor, Noridian maintains the system that processes Medicaid claims, supports providers who submit electronic Medicaid claims, and manages the IME mailroom. This contract serves Iowas current managed care (Iowa Health Link) population of more than 588,000, and a monthly average of 50,000 fee-for-service members. In addition to the Iowa Medicaid contract, Noridian holds four Medicare Administrative Contractor (MAC) contracts including the Medicare Part A/Part B contracts for Jurisdictions E and F and the Durable Medical Equipment (DME) contracts for Jurisdictions A and D. Noridian is also the Supplemental Medical Review Contractor (SMRC) for CMS and holds a Unified Program Integrity Contractor (UPIC) award, which allows Noridian to bid on procurements under the UPIC umbrella. About Noridian Healthcare Solutions Noridian Healthcare Solutions, LLC (Noridian) designs and delivers innovative administrative services that enhance federal and state government health care programs. Noridian has served as a government claims contractor since the federal Medicare program's inception in 1966. The company is headquartered in Fargo, North Dakota, with staff located throughout the country. For more information, visit http://www.noridian.com . Contact: Madison Hausauer 701-499-2129 madison.hausauer@flint-group.com English French Bollene, May 9, 2019 - 07:00am (CET) ERIC DELMAS IS APPOINTED DEPUTY CEO The Board of Directors of Egide SA, met on April 16, 2019, unanimously approved the appointment of M. Eric DELMAS as Deputy CEO, in addition to his position of Business Unit General Manager for the Bollene facility, held since February 2018. In order to have a deputy CEO available in the PACA region to work on behalf of the company, as an officer of the company, with all the regional economic fabric as well as with local and regional financial institutions, Egide's Board of Directors strengthens the management in its execution capacity and appoints M.Eric DELMAS as Deputy CEO. Building upon the cultural shift initiated a year ago and strong operational improvements achieved these past months, Eric DELMAS will now be tasked with using these new powers to accelerate the development of Egide SA as a whole. Biography M. Eric DELMAS https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-delmas/ MBA + Engineering degree at INSA/ENSEEIHT/UPS in Robotics, Artificial Intelligence, Image and Voice Recognition. He began his career in 1994 as a Marketing Engineer for discrete semiconductor components at Motorola in Toulouse (France). In 1999, he joined Texas Instruments for a distinguished career, first in Nice (France) as GSM/GPRS/EDGE Chipset Business Development Manager for the 2.5G cellular phone market. After being appointed Director for the 3G Japan Business Development and Marketing in 2005 in Tokyo (Japan), he became Business Development Director in Munich (Germany) in 2007 then Systems & Marketing Director for ASSPs in 2009 (still in Munich) before being appointed in 2011 General Manager - Battery Management division in Dallas (TX - USA). Financial Agenda : 2019 H1 revenue: 12 July 2019 To find out more about Egide: www.egide-group.com About Egide Egide is a group with an international dimension, specialized in the manufacture of hermetic packages and heat dissipation solutions for sensitive electronic components. It operates in cutting edge markets with strong technology barriers to entry in all critical industry segments (Thermal Imaging, Optronics, High-Frequency, Power Units.). Egide is the only pure player in this market niche with manufacturing bases in France and the United States. Egide's eligibility for tax efficient French innovation-focused mutual funds (FCPI) was renewed on May 14, 2018. Egide is listed on Euronext Paris(TM)- Segment C - ISIN code: FR0000072373 - Reuters: EGID.PA - Bloomberg : GID English French NOT FOR PUBLICATION, DISTRIBUTION OR RELEASE, DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY, IN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, IN AUSTRALIA, CANADA, JAPAN OR SOUTH AFRICA Paris, 09 May 2019 In a release dated 23 April 2019, LVMH indicated that it received on 18 April 2019 a notification which triggered the procedure provided under 7.1(a)(v) of the Terms and Conditions of the Bonds (the T&C ). LVMH informs the holders of the Bonds that at the end of the Reference Period (as defined in the T&C) that ran from 23 April 2019 (included) until 07 May 2019 (included), the Trading Condition, as per 7.1(a)(v) of the T&C and as verified by the Calculation Agent, is not met. NOT FOR PUBLICATION, DISTRIBUTION OR RELEASE, DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY, IN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, IN AUSTRALIA, CANADA, JAPAN OR SOUTH AFRICA LVMH LVMH Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton is represented in Wines and Spirits by a portfolio of brands that includes Moet & Chandon, Dom Perignon, Veuve Clicquot Ponsardin, Krug, Ruinart, Mercier, Chateau d'Yquem, Domaine du Clos des Lambrays, Chateau Cheval Blanc, Colgin Cellars, Hennessy, Glenmorangie, Ardbeg, Belvedere, Woodinville, Volcan de Mi Tierra, Chandon, Cloudy Bay, Terrazas de los Andes, Cheval des Andes, Cape Mentelle, Newton, Bodega Numanthia and Ao Yun. Its Fashion and Leather Goods division includes Louis Vuitton, Christian Dior Couture, Celine, Loewe, Kenzo, Givenchy, Pink Shirtmaker, Fendi, Emilio Pucci, Marc Jacobs, Berluti, Nicholas Kirkwood, Loro Piana, RIMOWA and Jean Patou. LVMH is present in the Perfumes and Cosmetics sector with Parfums Christian Dior, Guerlain, Parfums Givenchy, Kenzo Parfums, Perfumes Loewe, Benefit Cosmetics, Make Up For Ever, Acqua di Parma, Fresh, Fenty Beauty by Rihanna and Maison Francis Kurkdjian. LVMH's Watches and Jewelry division comprises Bvlgari, TAG Heuer, Chaumet, Dior Watches, Zenith, Fred and Hublot. LVMH is also active in selective retailing as well as in other activities through DFS, Sephora, Le Bon Marche, La Samaritaine, Groupe Les Echos, Cova, Le Jardin d'Acclimatation, Royal Van Lent, Belmond and Cheval Blanc hotels. NOT FOR PUBLICATION, DISTRIBUTION OR RELEASE, DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY, IN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, IN AUSTRALIA, CANADA, JAPAN OR SOUTH AFRICA DISCLAIMER Available information The issue of the Bonds is not subject to a prospectus approved by the French Financial Market Authority (Autorite des marches financiers) (the "AMF"). Detailed information on LVMH (the "Company"), including its business, results, prospects and related risk factors are described in the Company's reference document, the French version of which was filed with the AMF on 22 March 2018 under number D.18-0166, which is available together with all the press releases and other regulated information about the Company, on LVMH's website (http://www.lvmh.fr). Important information This press release does not constitute or form part of any offer or solicitation to purchase or subscribe for or to sell securities to any person in Australia, Canada, Japan, the United States of America or South Africa or in any jurisdiction to whom or in which such offer is unlawful, and the offering of the Bonds is not an offer to the public in any jurisdiction, including France. This press release may not be published, distributed or released directly or indirectly in Australia, Canada, Japan, the United States of America or South Africa. The distribution of this press release may be restricted by law in certain jurisdictions and persons into whose possession any document or other information referred to herein comes, should inform themselves about and observe any such restriction. Any failure to comply with these restrictions may constitute a violation of the securities laws of any such jurisdiction. No communication or information relating to the offering may be transmitted to the public in a country where there is a registration obligation or where an approval is required. No action has been or will be taken in any country in which such registration or approval would be required. The issuance or the subscription of the Bonds may be subject to legal and regulatory restrictions in certain jurisdictions; none of the Company or the joint global coordinators and joint bookrunners assume any liability in connection with the breach by any person of such restrictions. The information contained in this press release is for background purposes only and does not purport to be full or complete. No reliance may be placed for any purpose on the information contained in this press release or its accuracy or completeness. The information in this press release is subject to change. The Bonds will be offered only by way of a private placement in France to persons referred to in Article L.411-2-II of the French monetary and financial code (Code monetaire et financier) and outside France (excluding the United States of America, Australia, Canada, Japan or South Africa), without an offer to the public in any country (including France). This press release does not constitute a recommendation concerning the issue of the Bonds. The value of the Bonds and the Ordinary Shares can decrease as well as increase. Potential investors should consult a professional adviser as to the suitability of the Bonds for the person concerned. European Economic Area In each of the various Member States of the European Economic Area which has implemented the Prospectus Directive (the "Relevant Member States"), no action has been undertaken or will be undertaken to make an offer to the public of the Bonds requiring the publication of a prospectus in any Relevant Member State. As a result, the Bonds may only be offered in Relevant Member States: (a) to qualified investors, as defined in the Prospectus Directive; (b) to fewer than 150, individuals or legal persons (other than qualified investors as defined in the Prospectus Directive); or (c) in any other circumstances falling within Article 3(2) of the Prospectus Directive. For the purposes of this paragraph, (i) the notion of an "offer to the public of Bonds" in any Relevant Member State, means any communication, to individuals or legal entities, in any form and by any means, of sufficient information on the terms and conditions of the offering and on the Bonds to be offered, thereby enabling an investor to decide to purchase or subscribe for the Bonds, as the same may be varied in the Relevant Member State by any measure implementing the Prospectus Directive, (ii) the expression "Prospectus Directive" means Directive 2003/71/EC of the European Parliament and Council of 4 November 2003 as amended, and includes any relevant implementing measure in each Relevant Member State. These selling restrictions with respect to Member States apply in addition to any other selling restrictions which may be applicable in the Member States who have implemented the Prospectus Directive. France The Bonds have not been and will not be offered or sold or caused to be offered or sold, directly or indirectly, to the public in France. Any offer or sale of the Bonds and distribution of any offering material relating to the Bonds have been and will be made in France only to (x) persons providing investment services relating to portfolio management for the account of third parties (personnes fournissant le service d'investissement de gestion de portefeuille pour compte de tiers), and/or ((y) qualified investors (investisseurs qualifies) acting for their own account, and/or (z) a restricted circle of investors (cercle restreint d'investisseurs), with the meanings ascribed to them in, and in accordance with, Articles L.411-1, L.411-2 and D.411-1 and D.411-4 of the French Code monetaire et financier and applicable regulations thereunder. United Kingdom This press release has not been approved by any authorised person for the purposes of section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000, as amended ("FSMA") and is only directed at (i) persons who are not located in the United Kingdom, (ii) investment professionals falling within Article 19(5) of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Financial Promotion) Order 2005, as amended (the "Order"); (iii) persons falling within Article 49(2)(a) to (d) (high net worth entities, non-incorporated associations, etc.) of the Order, or (iv) persons to whom an invitation or inducement to engage in investment activity (within the meaning of Section 21 of the FSMA in connection with the issue or sale of the Bonds and, if any, the Shares (together being referred to as the "Securities"), may otherwise lawfully be communicated (all such persons mentioned in paragraphs (i), (ii), (iii) and (iv) above, together being referred to as "Relevant Persons"). The Securities are only available to Relevant Persons, and any invitation, offer or agreement to subscribe, purchase or otherwise acquire such securities will be addressed or concluded only with Relevant Persons. Any person that is not a Relevant Person must abstain from using or relying on this press release and the information contained therein. This press release does not constitute a prospectus for the purposes of, and has not been approved by the Financial Conduct Authority or by another United Kingdom regulatory authority falling within, Section 85 of the FSMA. United States of America This press release does not constitute any solicitation to purchase or an offer to purchase or to subscribe the Bonds in the United States of America. The Bonds have not been, and will not be, registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act") and may not be offered or sold in the United States of America, except pursuant to an exemption from the registration requirements of the Securities Act. The Bonds will be offered or sold only outside of the United States of America in offshore transactions in accordance with Regulation S of the Securities Act. The Company does not intend to register all or any portion of the offering of the Bonds in the United States of America or to conduct a public offering of the Bonds in the United States of America. Australia, Canada, Japan and South Africa The Bonds may not and will not be offered, sold or purchased in Australia, Canada, Japan or South Africa. The information contained in this press release does not constitute an offer of securities for sale in Australia, Canada, Japan or South Africa. The distribution of this press release in certain countries may constitute a breach of applicable law. May 9, 2019 Announcement no. 6 Q1 2019 Report Highlights FDA application processes for The NGAL Test on schedule In the first quarter of 2019 BioPorto focused intensively on driving our clinical studies and preparation of U.S. regulatory applications for two indications for The NGAL Test with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA); one for risk prediction of AKI in children using a urine sample, and one for use in adults based on plasma. The pediatric application (for children under the age of 21) based on a retrospective set of urine samples, is expected to be finalized and submitted before end of June 2019 in alignment with our plan. Also in accordance to plan, BioPorto has in first quarter 2019 commenced the enrollment of additional patients in the clinical study for the FDA application for The NGAL Test for use in adults. The final application for this indication is expected to be submitted to the FDA later in 2019, with clearance - subject to timing of the FDA process - expected in the second half of 2019. U.S. organization further strengthened In the first quarter of 2019 BioPorto has expanded its U.S. sales force to broaden its customer base among cardiac and kidney transplant centers and accelerate the momentum of awareness building of the NGAL biomarker and of Research Use Only (RUO) sales. Furthermore, Amy Winslow has been engaged as President for the U.S. subsidiary BioPorto Diagnostics Inc. to strengthen management and sales focus in the organization. Revenue affected by strong focus on strategic execution in beginning of 2019 In the first quarter of 2019 BioPorto grew revenue by 20% to DKK 5.5 million compared to DKK 4.6 million last year. Continued focus on RUO sales has doubled revenues from The NGAL Test in the U.S. and sales of antibodies are positively affected by higher bulk orders. BioPortos operating loss before interest and tax (EBIT) for the first three months of 2019 was DKK 17.1 million compared to a loss of DKK 12.5 million last year in the same period. The increase in the loss is primarily related to the full year effect of 2018 hires as well as increased spend on external consultants and lawyers. Sales and EBIT guidance for 2019 maintained Based on the results of the three months of 2019, BioPorto maintains its latest guidance for the financial year 2019. Revenue in 2019 is expected to total approximately DKK 40 million, corresponding to a growth rate of 50% over 2018. BioPorto expects to incur an operating loss (EBIT) of approximately DKK 45 million with a cash impact of DKK 41 million. Peter M. Eriksen, CEO comments: BioPorto is off to a good start in 2019. We have maintained the U.S. growth momentum in the Research Use Only sales of The NGAL Test, increasing revenues of the test in the leading global market more than 100% year-on-year. We have expanded our U.S. sales organization and attracted important competencies which will become very valuable as we continue to build awareness of the test prior to FDA clearance. Additionally, we are on-track with both the urinary study for the FDA application in children under 21 and enrollment of patients for the adult study in plasma. I am optimistic about the progress and status made thus far and look forward to advancing these programs during the remainder of the year a year that will be pivotal for the prospects of AKI patients, health care systems and BioPorto as we move towards submissions and hopefully clearance of the U.S. NGAL applications. Investor meeting In connection with the release of the interim report for the first three months of 2019, BioPorto will host an investor meeting on May 9, 2019 at 3:00 pm. The meeting will be held at Tuborg Havnevej 15 st., 2900 Hellerup, Denmark. To attend the meeting, please sign up at investor@bioporto.com. For further information, please contact: Ole Larsen, CFO Telephone +45 4529 0000, e-mail investor@bioporto.com About BioPorto BioPorto is an in-vitro diagnostics company that provides healthcare professionals in clinical and research settings a range of diagnostic tests and antibodies. BioPorto has its headquarters in Hellerup, Denmark and is listed on the NASDAQ Copenhagen stock exchange. Attachment Finnish English SATO Corporation, Press release, 9th May 2019 at 10:00 am SATO and MaaS Global launch collaboration pilot for housing and mobility The rental housing provider SATO anticipates that urban housing will generate more and more needs for easy-to-access services that can even be included in the rent. One example of future housing services is mobility, and it is on this theme that SATO and MaaS Global, the developer of the Whim mobility app, announced their housing and mobility pilot for around 1,400 SATO residents in the Helsinki Metropolitan Area this week. One of Finlands biggest rental housing providers, SATO believes that urbanisation will boost the need for housing-related services. The fast pace of the urban environment and the diversification of the use of various services give rise to the need to create effortless sets of services for consumers. SATO President and CEO Saku Sipola envisions that a variety of services could even be included in the home rent in the future. - Its a natural development to package up rental housing with various services used frequently by urban residents, such as mobility and daily shopping. This will save a lot of their time and effort, Sipola says. - The collaboration pilot of MaaS Global and SATO is a good example of synergy between services. Mobility between the home and regular everyday destinations is a key part of life, and this may give rise to something new and interesting for urban housing on the whole. According to MaaS Global CEO Sampo Hietanen, the purpose of the pilot is to collaborate in the exploration and creation of mobility services for nodes of housing to create "mobility clusters" in places where housing and mobility needs coexist. In practice, this can mean things such as access to a rental car just around the corner from your home via the Whim mobility service. - Housing and mobility are peoples basic needs. Its both natural and revolutionary for us to be the first in the world to package up these services. Collaboration with SATO and residents enables the creation of a new and even more efficient set of services and make residents lives smoother. Were excited about this opportunity and anticipate the pilot will be expanded in the future, Hietanen says. The pilot is open for participation by residents of 28 SATO buildings in Kalasatama and Jatkasaari, Helsinki, Niittymaa, Espoo, and Tikkurila, Hakunila, Maarinkunnas, Koivuhaka and Viertola, Vantaa. The first phase of the pilot takes six months, during which the participants will get a discount on the Whim application subscription for three subscription periods. The pilot will include a joint workshop to discuss residents' experiences of using the service. Feedback and requests will also be collected through online questionnaires throughout the pilot period. - MaaS Global and we will evaluate the pilot to consider how to develop our collaboration. I believe that in the coming months our residents and we will learn a lot not only about mobility service needs but also about the need for other services to be packaged up with housing, Sipola sums up. For more information please contact: Saku Sipola, President and CEO, SATO Corporation saku.sipola@sato.fi +358 40 551 5953 Miia Eloranta, Director of Marketing and Communications, SATO Corporation miia.eloranta@sato.fi +358 201 34 4200 or +358 40 164 4221 For interview requests, MaaS Global Ltd Veera Aalto veera.aalto@maas.global +358 40 742 7379 SATO is one of Finland's leading rental housing providers. SATO aims to offer a comprehensive choice of rental housing and an excellent customer experience. At year-end 2018 SATO owned around 25,900 apartments in Finland's largest growth centres and in St. Petersburg. We promote sustainable development and initiative through our operations and work in open interaction with our stakeholders to generate added value. We operate profitably and with a long-term view. We increase the value of our housing stock through investments, divestments and repairs. The SATO Group's net sales in 2018 were EUR 290 million, operating profit EUR 273 million and profit before taxes EUR 231 million. The value of SATO's investment properties was roughly EUR 3.9 billion. www.sato.fi About MaaS Global & Whim MaaS Global is the worlds first true Mobility-as-a-Service (MaaS) operator with its award-winning Whim app, which provides users all city transport services in one app. With over four million trips made since its launch in November 2017, Whim is the first all-inclusive MaaS solution commercially available on the market. Whim allows users to journey where and when they want with public transport, taxis, cars, and many other options, all under a single monthly subscription. Whim has revolutionized users travel habits, in favor of circular modes. MaaS Global was founded in 2015 and is headquartered in Helsinki, Finland. The company is funded by Toyota Financial Services, Karsan Otomotiv, Transdev, Aioi Nissay Dowa, Denso and Veho and the total amount of investments is 24.2 million euros. https://maas.global/ https://whimapp.com PITTSBURG (BCN) About 300 students will race in Pittsburg on Thursday in what will be the first Contra Costa County Special Olympics Track Meet, according to Pittsburg Unified School District officials. Athletes from schools in Antioch, Brentwood, Pittsburg and Oakley will compete at the track meet that is part of the Special Olympics Schools Partnership Program. About 100 Pittsburg High School students will also volunteer at the event. Copyright 2019 by Bay City News, Inc. Republication, Rebroadcast or any other Reuse without the express written consent of Bay City News, Inc. is prohibited. SAN FRANCISCO (BCN) A San Francisco doctor accused of unlawfully providing medical exemptions for parents so that they can avoid vaccinating their children is being investigated by prosecutors, City Attorney Dennis Herrera announced Wednesday. Herrera's office has issued a subpoena for medical records from Dr. Kenneth Stoller to see whether he violated state nuisance laws by providing the medical exemptions for patients who may not have qualified for them. California state law mandates that all students attending public or private schools must be vaccinated unless they qualify for a valid medical exemption like an allergy or chemotherapy treatment. The law went into effect in 2016 and prevents parents from citing religious or personal beliefs as a reason to not immunize their kids. Since 2015, Herrera's office said the number of medical exemptions issued has soared. By providing possibly false exemptions, Herrera's office said that Stoller may have put the children, their playmates and classmates, as well as the general public, at risk for contracting a communicable disease. "As a community, we have a responsibility to each other," Herrera said in a statement. "There are children who have serious medical conditions that prevent them from getting vaccinated. The scary thing is those are the kids most at risk when somebody engages in medical exemption deception. If someone uses a medical exemption they don't qualify for and introduces unvaccinated children into that environment, the kids who legitimately can't get a vaccine -- and ultimately the general public -- are the ones in real danger," he said. According to Herrera's office, Stoller, a graduate of the American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine, has been a vocal opponent of vaccines in the past and once said in an interview for an anti-vaccine website that he bases medical exemption decisions on two 30-minutes visits and a 23andMe genetic test. The subpoena order directs Stoller to redact all information that could be used to identify individual patients, including names, addresses, birth dates and medical record numbers. He has until May 23 to respond to the subpoena, Herrera's office said. Stoller's attorney Richard Jaffe was not immediately available for comment. 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) San Francisco filmmaker Kevin Epps, once arrested in connection with a 2016 killing in the city's Glen Park neighborhood but later released, has been rearrested and charged with murder. Epps, 51, appeared in a San Francisco courtroom on Wednesday for arraignment on the murder charge as well as weapons charges. He's accused of fatally gunning down 45-year-old Marcus Polk on Oct. 24, 2016. Responding officers found Polk suffering from gunshot wounds in a home in the 100 block of Addison Street and he was pronounced dead there. Officers initially arrested Epps in connection with the slaying but the San Francisco District Attorney's Office later dropped the charges, citing a lack of evidence. The city's recently sworn-in Public Defender Manohar Raju has been appointed to represent Epps. During his Wednesday arraignment, however, Assistant District Attorney John Rowland argued that the Public Defender's Office representing Epps poses a conflict of interest because it had also represented the victim in the case, Polk, numerous times in the past. Rowland also argued that Epps be held without bail because he is a flight risk, citing more than $21,000 in cash that was found in Epps' possession when he was arrested by police on Tuesday. Epps did not enter a plea and Judge Christine Van Aken put the arraignment over to Friday, at which time she may rule on whether Raju's representation poses a conflict of interest and whether Epps will be granted bail. Prosecutors haven't said what new evidence exists to prompt the new charges. Epps is known for his 2003 film "Straight Outta Hunters Point," which documented life in the Hunters Point neighborhood in southeast San Francisco. Outside of court, Raju said, "Mr. Epps is someone who is a longstanding vital member of the community because he's a tremendous artist. He's a member of the NAACP, a member of the Bay Area Black Journalists Association; he's on the board of the San Francisco Black Film Festival. He has a very supportive community." Several of Epps' family members and supporters showed up to the arraignment, including former city supervisor the Rev. Amos Brown. A close friend of Epps, Brown said Epps' family is distraught by his arrest, particularly because the charges were once dropped. "All this has come out of the clear blue so we're waiting to find out and know what the facts are. But more importantly he deserves justice and fairness," Brown said. 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) An Alameda County Superior Court jury will begin deliberating Thursday in the case of a Livermore husband and wife who claim that Monsanto Co.'s Roundup herbicide caused both of them to develop cancer. Alva Pilliod, 76, and Alberta Pilliod, 74, were diagnosed with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma in 2011 and 2015. They allege that exposure from more than three decades of spraying Roundup on weeds in several properties was a substantial factor in causing their illness. Monsanto, now owned by Bayer AG of Germany, contends studies have shown Roundup is safe. Roundup is the world's most popular weedkiller. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has stated that Roundup's principal ingredient, glyphosate, is not likely to cause cancer, while an agency of the World Health Organization has concluded the chemical is probably carcinogenic. The jurors in the court of Judge Winifred Smith will begin deliberating Thursday after having heard about six weeks of testimony followed by closing arguments on Wednesday. The couple claims Monsanto sold a defective product, failed to warn consumers of the dangers and was negligent. Their lawyer asked the jury Wednesday to award the couple about $55 million in compensation plus $1 billion in punitive damages. The Pilliods' case is the third to go to trial among more than 13,000 lawsuits filed against Monsanto nationwide in state and federal courts. In the first lawsuit to go to trial, a San Francisco Superior Court jury last year awarded former school groundskeeper Dewayne Johnson of Vallejo $289 million, later reduced by the trial judge to $78 million. In the second case, a federal jury in San Francisco in March granted $80 million to Edwin Hardeman of Santa Rosa. Monsanto is appealing both verdicts. 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) An Oakland man was indicted by a federal grand jury in San Francisco Tuesday on charges of committing five bank robberies in the Bay Area between October and February. Duane Makela, 49, allegedly stole a total of $33,301 in the robberies in Mountain View, South San Francisco, Alameda, Castro Valley and Palo Alto. The indictment was issued under seal and was unsealed Wednesday after Makela was arraigned before U.S. Magistrate Sallie Kim. Kim order him held in custody without bail. Four of the heists were charged as armed bank robberies, which carry a maximum possible sentence of 25 years upon conviction. The fifth robbery was charged as a bank robbery, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison. Makela's next court appearance is scheduled for May 23 before U.S. District Judge William Orrick, the trial judge assigned to the case. 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. Berkeley police searched Martin Luther King Jr. Middle School Wednesday afternoon because someone said a person might have a gun on campus, police said. As of 3:47 p.m., officers were at the school at 1781 Rose St. Police said they found no suspects and no students were harmed. Police said officers will remain in the area to investigate. 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. International Administration Group (Guernsey) Limited Company Administrator Attn: Mark Woodall Tel: +44 1481 723450 Eurocastle Announces Share Buyback Programme Transactions from 6 May 2019 to 8 May 2019 and end of Third Buyback Programme Guernsey, 9 May 2019 Eurocastle Investment Limited (Eurocastle or the Company) today announces that between 6 May 2019 and 8 May 2019, under its non-discretionary share buyback programme with Liberum Capital Limited (acting as the Company's broker) announced on 7 March 2019 (the Third Buyback Programme), it bought back 6,889 of its ordinary shares at an average price of 7.43 per ordinary share. These purchases were made pursuant to the authority granted at its Annual General Meeting on 20 June 2018. The purchased shares will all be held as treasury shares. The Third Buyback Programme ended on 8 May 2019. The share buyback programme will be considered for renewal by the Companys Board of Directors in due course. The purpose of the share buyback programme is to reduce the share capital of the Company and the programme is executed in compliance with the provisions of Regulation (EU) No 596/2014 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 16 April 2014 and the Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2016/1052 of 8 March 2016, collectively referred to as the Safe Harbour rules. The following transactions have been made under the buyback programme: Accumulated, most recent announcement Platform code Volume Volume Weighted Average Price Gross Value () 06/05/2019 BATE 97 7.40 718 XLON 2,123 7.41 15,726 CHIX 276 7.43 2,051 TRQX 53 7.40 392 Total 2,549 7.41 18,888 07/05/2019 BATE 98 7.48 733 XLON 1,968 7.48 14,717 CHIX 326 7.48 2,438 TRQX 77 7.48 576 Total 2,469 7.48 18,464 08/05/2019 BATE 99 7.44 737 XLON 1,441 7.40 10,663 CHIX 258 7.46 1,925 TRQX 73 7.44 543 Total 1,871 7.41 13,868 Following the above transactions: The total number of ordinary shares of the Company in issue is 63,813,362 The total number of ordinary shares held by Eurocastle in treasury is 18,806,411 (equal to 29.5% of the Companys share capital) The total number of voting rights exercisable by holders of ordinary shares of the Company is 45,006,951, as voting rights of shares held in treasury are suspended. ABOUT EUROCASTLE Eurocastle Investment Limited is a publicly traded closed-ended investment company that focuses on investing in performing and non-performing loans and other real estate related assets primarily in Italy. The Company is Euro denominated and is listed on Euronext Amsterdam under the symbol ECT. Eurocastle is managed by an affiliate of Fortress Investment Group LLC, a leading global investment manager. For more information regarding Eurocastle Investment Limited and to be added to our email distribution list, please visit www.eurocastleinv.com. Set out below are all trades completed between 6 May 2019 and 8 May 2019: Platform code Volume Price Gross Value () 06/05/2019 XLON 23 7.44 171.12 XLON 69 7.42 511.98 XLON 679 7.42 5,038.18 CHIX 51 7.42 378.42 CHIX 46 7.42 341.32 XLON 197 7.40 1,457.80 XLON 118 7.40 873.20 XLON 196 7.40 1,450.40 XLON 187 7.40 1,383.80 CHIX 55 7.46 410.30 XLON 72 7.40 532.80 CHIX 64 7.46 477.44 XLON 206 7.40 1,524.40 XLON 145 7.40 1,073.00 XLON 50 7.40 370.00 XLON 181 7.40 1,339.40 BATE 97 7.40 717.80 CHIX 60 7.40 444.00 TRQX 53 7.40 392.20 Total 2,549 7.41 18,887.56 07/05/2019 TRQX 77 7.48 575.96 BATE 98 7.48 733.04 XLON 192 7.46 1,432.32 XLON 1,065 7.48 7,966.20 XLON 145 7.48 1,084.60 XLON 45 7.48 336.60 XLON 11 7.48 82.28 CHIX 287 7.48 2,146.76 CHIX 39 7.48 291.72 XLON 186 7.48 1,391.28 XLON 161 7.48 1,204.28 XLON 163 7.48 1,219.24 Total 2,469 7.48 18,464.28 08/05/2019 XLON 90 7.40 666.00 CHIX 61 7.50 457.50 CHIX 57 7.46 425.22 TRQX 73 7.44 543.12 BATE 27 7.44 200.88 BATE 72 7.44 535.68 CHIX 53 7.48 396.44 CHIX 28 7.42 207.76 CHIX 28 7.42 207.76 CHIX 28 7.42 207.76 XLON 90 7.40 666.00 XLON 184 7.40 1,361.60 CHIX 3 7.42 22.26 XLON 37 7.40 273.80 XLON 57 7.40 421.80 XLON 14 7.40 103.60 XLON 100 7.40 740.00 XLON 51 7.40 377.40 XLON 274 7.40 2,027.60 XLON 82 7.40 606.80 XLON 438 7.40 3,241.20 XLON 24 7.40 177.60 Total 1,871 7.41 13,867.78 Chronic homelessness in Marin County has declined 28 percent since 2017, the Marin County Department of Health and Human Services announced Wednesday at a news conference in San Rafael. The 28-percent figure is preliminary and final figures on the results of the county's point-in-time homeless count on Jan. 28 will be available in July, county health officials said. County homeless policy analyst Ashley Hart McIntyre and homeless program coordinator Carrie Ellen Sager attributed the 28 percent drop in chronic homelessness to the county's system-wide Housing First approach which is considered the most effective way to address chronic homelessness. Housing First prioritizes the most vulnerable of the homeless population. "We needed to shift our focus to the most vulnerable, most visible and most complex population to drastically improve health outcomes," McIntyre said. "We're thrilled that our preliminary count numbers confirm what studies have shown to be true: Housing highly vulnerable people is the solution to chronic homelessness." The Marin County Department of Health and Human Services and its partners have housed 128 chronically homeless residents since October 2017. The 2019 point-in-time count found 257 people to be chronically homeless. Eighty-six were in an emergency shelter on the night of the Jan. 28 count, and 171 were unsheltered. The unsheltered chronically homeless population has dropped 41 percent since 2017, according to county health officials. The decrease shows Marin's emergency shelters are reaching a more vulnerable population than ever before, county health officials said. The preliminary January 2019 count also indicated family homelessness decreased 28 percent, youth homelessness fell 10 percent, homelessness among people with serious mental illness decreased 40 percent and homelessness among people with substance abuse disorders dropped by 10 percent. County health officials said the cost of leaving a chronically homeless person on the street is $60,000 a year when considering the costs of hospitals, the court system, criminal justice and other public systems. The cost of providing permanent supportive housing for a chronically homeless person is roughly $25,000 a year, according to the health officials. Sager said the county's nonprofit partners "do the difficult work of implementing these best practices day-to-day and meeting the needs of complex clients." 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 second person who was a victim of a wrong-way driving collision on Interstate Highway 505 late Sunday night has died, the Solano County coroner's office said Thursday. Kathy Robertson, 61, of Vacaville, was driving north on Highway 505 south of Allendale Road when her 2008 Honda Civic was struck by a 2009 Toyota Camry that was driving south in the northbound lanes of the highway around 11 p.m., according to the California Highway Patrol. Robertson died Monday at Kaiser Permanente Vacaville Medical Center, according to the coroner's office. The male driving the Toyota was killed and his name has not been released, the coroner's office said. A 56-year-old Vacaville man who was a passenger in Robertson's Honda suffered major injuries and was taken to the hospital, the CHP said. 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. SANTA ROSA (BCN) A 21-year-old Sonoma State University student was arraigned in Sonoma County Superior Court Wednesday on charges of rape and sodomy of a woman on the Rohnert Park campus with the use of a drug in December. Patrick James O'Regan delayed entering a plea until May 30. He was granted pre-trial release with enhanced supervision and was served a criminal protective order prohibiting contact with the victim. O'Regan agreed to surrender his cellphone to the District Attorney's Office and to allow police to search his electronic devices and disclose any passwords. In a statement Wednesday, Sonoma State University said the University Police Department received a report around 2:30 a.m. on Dec. 8 of a sexual assault that occurred late in the evening of Dec. 7 in the university residential community. Police conducted an extensive investigation that ended in late April, and arrested O'Regan Wednesday at the Sonoma County criminal court complex on a single charge of rape, according to the university. The Sonoma County District Attorney's Office filed a complaint against O'Regan on April 16 and a warrant for O'Regan's arrest was issued the next day, according to court records. The complaint alleges that on Dec. 7, O'Regan committed rape and sodomy of the woman, who was prevented from resisting by an intoxicating anesthetic and controlled substance late on the evening of Dec. 7. 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. LAFAYETTE (BCN) A Tesla crashed into a dry cleaning business Wednesday morning in Lafayette, police said. Firefighters received a dispatch at 8:54 a.m. about the crash in the 900 block of Moraga Road. Police officers arrived at 9:00 a.m., determining there were no injuries to the driver or to anyone else. Contra Costa County Fire Protection District firefighters joined police a couple of minutes later. Steve Hill, a fire district spokesman, said that the crash pushed in the front door of the dry cleaners and smashed its windows. 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. About 300 students will race in Pittsburg on Thursday in what will be the first Contra Costa County Special Olympics Track Meet, according to Pittsburg Unified School District officials. The meet will take place at Pittsburg High School, located at 1750 Harbor St., with opening ceremonies starting at 10 a.m. Athletes from schools in Antioch, Brentwood, Pittsburg and Oakley will compete at the track meet that is part of the Special Olympics Schools Partnership Program. About 100 Pittsburg High School students will also volunteer at the event. An Alameda County Superior Court jury will begin deliberating Thursday in the case of a Livermore husband and wife who claim that Monsanto Co.'s Roundup herbicide caused both of them to develop cancer. Alva Pilliod, 76, and Alberta Pilliod, 74, were diagnosed with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma in 2011 and 2015. They allege that exposure from more than three decades of spraying Roundup on weeds in several properties was a substantial factor in causing their illness. Monsanto, now owned by Bayer AG of Germany, contends studies have shown Roundup is safe. Roundup is the world's most popular weedkiller. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has stated that Roundup's principal ingredient, glyphosate, is not likely to cause cancer, while an agency of the World Health Organization has concluded the chemical is probably carcinogenic. The jurors in the court of Judge Winifred Smith will begin deliberating Thursday after having heard about six weeks of testimony followed by closing arguments on Wednesday. Hundreds of Uber drivers, upset because they say their wages have significantly diminished in recent years, rallied outside the ride-hailing app's headquarters in downtown San Francisco on Wednesday afternoon. The drivers were participating in a national strike being held by Uber drivers across several U.S. cities that's set to last through early Thursday morning. As Uber prepares to go public on Friday with an initial public offering valued at $100 billion, the drivers say their pay has been cut significantly and they've been left with earnings below the minimum wage after expenses. Additionally, the drivers say because they're contract workers, they're denied basic worker benefits like vacation time, healthcare and retirement contributions. Stephen Phillips, 70, has been driving for Uber for more than four years and said that he's now earning less than half of what he used to make in 2015. "We were paid very fairly and could actually make a decent salary. It was worth having your own car and burning the gas and everything. But now it's literally not worth being out there," he said. Officials with the California Highway Patrol said one person died in a multi-vehicle, chain-reaction, rear-end collision on eastbound state Highway 12 in Fairfield Wednesday afternoon. The collision was reported around 3:22 p.m. at Beck Avenue, CHP Officer David Harvey said. Four vehicles were stopped at a red light in the No. 1 lane of Highway 12 at Beck Avenue when a white Mercedes Benz van struck the back of a Volkswagen Passat. The Volkswagen struck the rear of a gray Honda sedan, which hit a BMW sedan, which struck the back of an Audi sedan, Harvey said. The male Volkswagen driver from Suisun City died at the scene, and occupants of three other vehicles suffered minor injuries, Harvey said. A man was identified Wednesday following a confrontation with police in East San Jose Saturday in which he allegedly rammed an officer with a car and police killed him, according to the Santa Clara County medical examiner's office. Efren Esquivel, 24, of Stockton died from multiple gunshot wounds to the trunk and right arm in the second fatal police shooting in San Jose this year. Officers responded to Kollmar Drive and Story Road at 12:55 p.m. to reports of a stolen car. They found the car occupied by a male driver and backed into an apartment parking lot. Police blocked in the car on all sides, but Esquivel didn't comply with commands to surrender, according to Police Chief Eddie Garcia, who said Esquivel was acting "peculiar" and "bizarre." Esquivel fled out of the car's sunroof and onto other vehicles in an effort to escape, but jumped back into his vehicle and allegedly rammed into patrol vehicles when he was unable to find an exit, according to police. He kept ramming into vehicles until he was able to make a space between the cars, then drove the car directly at Sgt. James Mason, police said. Mason, Officers Edward Carboni and Aaron Alvarez began firing, but the car hit Mason and he was pinned between the suspect's car and a parked vehicle and dragged under the suspect's vehicle, police said. A 20-year-old Petaluma woman wanted for allegedly stabbing a 16-year-old boy turned herself into police on Wednesday afternoon, according to sheriff's officials. The suspect, identified as Raquel Magana, was wanted on a $150,000 warrant, sheriff's officials said. She is currently in custody at the county jail on suspicion of assault with a deadly weapon and child endangerment. The boy was riding his bicycle on a bike path in front of the Rancho Vista Mobile Home in the 17300 block of state Highway 12 in Aqua Caliente near Sonoma around 8 p.m. when he was confronted, the sheriff's office said. The woman asked the boy his gang status and stabbed him in the stomach, chest and arm when he said he wasn't a gang member, the sheriff's office said. The boy rode home on his bike and his parents called an ambulance. The boy suffered serious injuries but is expected to survive. Thursday will be mostly cloudy in the morning, then becoming partly cloudy. Highs will be in the mid 50s to upper 60s. Southwest winds will be 10 to 20 mph. Thursday night will be mostly cloudy. Lows will be in the mid 50s. Southwest winds will be 10 to 20 mph. Friday will be cloudy in the morning, then becoming partly cloudy. Highs will be in the 50s to upper 60s. Southwest winds will be 5 to 10 mph. 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. BERKELEY (BCN) A 36-year-old Berkeley man was arrested early Sunday morning after allegedly being in possession of a homemade handgun and part of an assault rifle during a traffic stop, according to police. Police said the suspect, identified on the city's website as Arturo Frisch Avila, was stopped at 11:57 p.m. Saturday in the area of Sixth Street and University Avenue. An initial investigation determined that the vehicle's license plate was registered to another vehicle. A search of the vehicle found the loaded handgun, the assault rifle part, as well as methamphetamine and other weapons in his vehicle, according to police. Police said a search of the driver's home found ammunition, high-capacity rifle magazines and one more handgun. Avila is currently being held at the Santa Rita Jail on $230,000 bail, per jail records. His next scheduled court appearance - a pretrial hearing - is Monday at the Rene C. Davidson Courthouse in Oakland at 9 a.m. 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. The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development and the EU mission to Hanoi jointly held a press conference on May 8 to announce the end of the ratification and approval process of the agreement. On April 15, 2019, the European Council sent a diplomatic note to the Vietnamese mission in Brussels, announcing the end of the ratification process of the agreement with Vietnam after the European Parliament voted to ratify it on March 12, 2019. On April 23, 2019, the Vietnamese Government issued a resolution approving the VPA/FLEGT between Vietnam and the EU. According to Nguyen Quoc Tri, Director General of the General Department of Forestry under the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, the enforcement of the VPA/FLEGT marks the start of the implementation of cooperation commitments to solve illegal timber exploitation and trade between Vietnam and the EU. Vietnam will build and put into operation a timber legality assurance system (VNTLAS) to ensure that the countrys exported wood and timber products have legal origin certificates and Vietnamese import firms are able to harvest and trade wood in accordance with the foreign countries laws, he said. The country will continue improving legal documents harmonising the commitments of the VPA/FLEGT agreement, including the building of a decree regulating the VNTLAS, which will be submitted to the Government for promulgation at the end of this year, he added. Vietnam and the EU agreed to establish a joint implementation committee (JIC) to supervise and evaluate the full implementation of the agreements commitments, a process which may be extended for several years. JIC will ensure there is a dialogue mechanism, information sharing, and updated announcements between the two sides, as well as reinforce the operation of the multi-stakeholder implementation core group of Vietnam. A general assessment will be conducted before the FLEGT licensing mechanism of the VNTLAS officially operates. To that end, each batch of Vietnamese wood and timber products exported to the EU will be accompanied by a FLEGT licence in a bid to prevent the illegal import of wood into the EU market. Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development Ha Cong Tuan said the VPA/FLEGT Agreement conveys a strong signal of Vietnams and the EUs commitment to promoting the implementation of the Trade and Sustainable Development chapter of the Vietnam-EU Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA), including regulations on sustainable forest management and forest product trade. Ambassador Bruno Angelet, head of the EU mission to Hanoi, shared that Vietnam was the second country in Asia that the bloc has signed a VPA/FLEGT with, following Indonesia. Once the agreement is fully enforced, Vietnams furniture industry will see strong developments, he said, adding that the EU will continue supporting Vietnam in building the VNTLAS and FLEGT licensing mechanism. Hybrid cloud solution integral part of NHS Digitals multi-cloud, cloud-first strategy for large-scale digital transformation of NHS NHS and public-sector organizations to benefit from cost and operational efficiencies, fast migration to the cloud and access to native AWS services LONDON and PALO ALTO, Calif. , May 09, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- VMware, Inc. (NYSE: VMW), a leading innovator in enterprise software, today announced that NHS Digital, the national information and technology partner for the UKs health and care system, has made VMware Cloud on AWS available across the NHS to help accelerate digitally-enabled care. Part of its multi-cloud, cloud-first approach, NHS Digital is now migrating VMware vSphere workloads to the cloud to drive down costs and improve operational efficiencies. NHS Digital maintains and develops the mission-critical IT infrastructure that underpins the NHS and social care. Its systems and information are helping the NHS to build a digitally-ready workforce, enabling the 1.4 million NHS staff and 1.5 million social care staff provide the best possible care and health outcomes to patients across the UK. As the NHS continues its large-scale digital transformation, and more of its services are delivered online, NHS Digital has adopted a cloud-first approach that will leverage multiple clouds as the best and fastest way to support this change in service delivery. NHS Digital has been a long-standing user of VMware solutions over the past 15 years and has significant usage of AWS and Microsoft Azure. VMware Cloud on AWS brings together the best of the VMware and AWS environments to the NHS. Ultimately, NHS Digital intends to migrate most of its services from its on-premises environment leveraging VMware Cloud on AWS, Amazon Web Services (AWS) and Azure. VMware Cloud on AWS has enabled NHS Digital to create a new commercial model to act as a single cloud service broker to organizations across NHS and the UK public sector. This model will provide better economies of scale and help facilitate a move to cloud across the NHS. It illustrates well how NHS Digital is working with its suppliers to transform health and care through technology. VMware Cloud on AWS provides a hybrid cloud that extends consistent infrastructure and operations across NHS Digitals on-premises data centers and the AWS cloud for VMware-based workloads. NHS Digital has already started migrating workloads to VMware Cloud on AWS and representatives of NHS Digital say the process is fast and easy. Applications require no re-architecting, existing policies and IP addresses are maintained and IT can manage the cloud resource with existing skillset. When in the cloud, NHS Digital can take advantage of cost savings, and combine innovative native AWS services with its VMware based workloads. The uptake of digital services in the NHS is accelerating so the NHS and social cares IT backbone must be up to the job. With VMware Cloud on AWS, were providing a resilient platform to support digitally-enabled care today and in the future. We now have a commercial framework in place to enable NHS and public-sector organizations to confidently use the cloud. Together we can benefit from the economies of scale and cost efficiencies of this model, said Rob Shaw, Deputy Chief Executive, NHS Digital. We choose the right cloud for each workload, and VMware Cloud on AWS is the absolute best option for running our vSphere-based environments in the cloud. Its easy to move solutions across the different environments and its easy to run and manage. We built a virtual data center in the AWS cloud in less than three hours. That speed and agility is just what we need to harness innovation and make the best digital services available for the NHS and social care sector, said Michael Flintoft, Associate Director, Platforms and Infrastructure, NHS Digital. For more information from NHS Digital about VMware Cloud contact: enquiries@nhsdigital.nhs.uk About VMware VMware software powers the worlds complex digital infrastructure. The companys cloud, networking and security, and digital workspace offerings provide a dynamic and efficient digital foundation to over 500,000 customers globally, aided by an ecosystem of 75,000 partners. Headquartered in Palo Alto, California, VMware is committed to being a force for good, from its breakthrough innovations to its global impact. For more information, please visit https://www.vmware.com/company.html . VMware, VMware Cloud, and vSphere are registered trademarks or trademarks of VMware, Inc. or its subsidiaries in the United States and other jurisdictions. This article may contain hyperlinks to non-VMware websites that are created and maintained by third parties who are solely responsible for the content on such websites. Media Contacts: U.S. Press Contact Roger T. Fortier VMware Global Communications Phone: 408-348-1569 rfortier@vmware.com VANCOUVER, British Columbia, May 09, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- FinCanna Capital Corp. (FinCanna) (CSE: CALI) (OTCQB: FNNZF) a royalty company for the U.S. licensed cannabis industry, announces that its portfolio company ezGreen Compliance (ezGreen) has completed its integration with Marijuana Tracking Enforcement Compliance (Metrc) for the states of California, Colorado, Maryland, Massachusetts, Montana and Oregon. ezGreen provides state-of-the-art enterprise compliance and Point-of-Sale (POS) software solutions for licensed cannabis dispensaries in the United States. Compliance with Metrc is mandatory for all California cannabis permanent licensees. Licensees, to remain compliant must migrate their current product inventory on to the Metrc platform enabling the tracking and reporting of cannabis and cannabis products as they move through the commercial cannabis supply chain. ezGreens POS software supports and simplifies the maintenance of accurate reporting, inventory control and taxation requirements for licensees seeking to remain compliant. With this integration, ezGreen becomes the first Point-of-Sale solution designed by medical, data and security professionals to be sanctioned by Cannabis Control Commissions in 6 States, with applications for certification made for the remaining Metrc States. This integration with Metrc allows ezGreen customers to substantially reduce their time and costs associated with managing product information and client data, in a fully compliant state-by-state environment. Specifically developed to address the needs of the licensed cannabis Industry, ezGreen Compliance is a Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) certified POS solution developed and supported by Automated HealthCare Solutions (AHCS). AHCS is a leading point-of-care tracking and dispensing software solution developed over the past 17 years which currently supports 3,500+ active physician operated clinics and dispensaries, all while maintaining HIPAA compliance following essential Health and Human Services standards in the United States. Metrc is a turnkey regulatory compliance system that provides, tracking and tracing specifically designed for government agencies regulating legalized marijuana. Metrc covers a substantial portion of the legal U.S. cannabis market having won exclusive seed-to-sale tracking contracts with twelve states, which include over 5,700 retail dispensary licenses available in their geographic coverage. Cannabiz Media. Cannabis industry data standards are increasingly mirroring the pharmaceutical industrys patient data security protocols, said Mike Coner, President of ezGreen. Our POS solution delivers data security and integrates with any technology platform which supports operators in streamlining their operations and lowering costs related to double data entry. ezGreen also provides fully customized reporting and real time data analytics enabling businesses to make more effective decisions. With our recent integration with Metrc we are now able to deliver a complete compliance and data management solution. We see this integration as the missing link that combines the Seed-to-Sale power of Metrc with the equally powerful Sale-to-State tracking and reporting delivered by ezGreen, said Andriyko Herchak, CEO of FinCanna Capital. Compliant operations and reporting is a must have for retailers and dispensaries, and this integration with Metrc positions ezGreen as a leader in the space. We anticipate strong performance from ezGreen going forward as they continue to strategically expand their market opportunity. Integrated via Application Programming Interface (API) with Metrc, ezGreen is now positioned to provide its POS solution to cannabis operators throughout the 6 states as a complete and comprehensive compliance and business information solution. This combined solution links the strengths of the Metrc technology which provides aggregate data regarding cultivation, production, transportation and sales of cannabis within the regulated model with ezGreens strengths as a POS solution that integrates with Metrc under state specific technology guidelines to protect patient and customer records while offering dispensaries custom data and analytics. ezGreen tracks products in real time and is able to instantly identify product related discrepancies at point-of-sale, simplifying management's ability to immediately identify and resolve any Store-to-State inventory reporting issues. ezGreens Point-of-Sale software also eliminates the need for manual data entry when reporting information to Metrc. As retailers or dispensaries accept inbound product information on their Metrc portal, the ezGreen information system is activated, automatically batching and labeling every product prior to sale. This seamless data exchange delivers complete compliance ensuring that products sold are reported referencing their corresponding product label tracking information versus other standard inventory tracking methods. For states tracking workflows that do not allow integration ezGreen provides its users the ability to generate or request custom reports, which eliminates further manual entry in Metrc or any other state tracking system. About Metrc First deployed in 2013 Metrc is a web-based solution made up of a browser interface and a mobile application for both the industry and regulatory users that provides end to end tracking and tracing of marijuana plants and products. The backend is a series of secure Web Services, Database and an Application Programming Interface (API). This solution was specifically designed for government agencies in charge of legalized marijuana enforcement. Metrc provides the necessary visibility for adherence to rules, regulations and statues. Currently Metrc is contracted by the following states, Alaska, California, Colorado, Oregon, Maryland, Michigan, Ohio, Massachusetts, Montana, Nevada, Louisiana and Washington D.C. For additional information visit https://www.metrc.com . About ezGreen Compliance ezGreen Compliance, located in Fort Lauderdale FL, provides through its ezGreen software technology, a proven state-of-the-art enterprise compliance and Point-of-Sale software solution for licensed medical cannabis dispensaries and cultivators. Navigating through state-by-state license, tax and compliance issues has been challenging for the legal cannabis industry. ezGreen Compliance helps its customers comply with both the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and State Laws by ensuring patients confidential data is being handled properly, helping to protect from possible security breaches and financial and criminal liability resulting from potential violations. For more information around a HIPAA compliance strategy for the Cannabis industry, please visit www.ezgreencompliance.com . About FinCanna Capital Corp. FinCanna is a royalty company that provides growth capital to rapidly emerging private companies operating in the licensed U.S cannabis industry. The Company earns its revenue from royalties paid by its investee companies that are calculated based on a percentage of their total revenues. FinCannas scalable royalty model provides an attractive alternative or complement to debt or equity financing for its investee companies. FinCanna is focused on delivering high-impact returns to its shareholders by way of a strategically diversified investment portfolio. For additional information visit www.fincannacapital.com and www.sedar.com . FinCanna Capital Corp. Andriyko Herchak, CEO & Director Investor Relations: Arlen Hansen Kin Communications 1-866-684-6730 CALI@kincommunications.com Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements VANCOUVER, British Columbia, May 09, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- via NetworkWire Transcanna Holdings Inc. (CSE:TCAN: XETR: TH8) (TransCanna or the Company) is pleased to announce the execution of a non-binding letter of intent with Persuasion Brewing Co. (Persuasion or PBC), a private brewing company located in Modesto, California. Both companies have agreed to create a division within TransCannas recently purchased 196,000-square-foot vertically integrated facility (the Facility) to establish a Persuasion Brewing division, which will produce a variety of different CBD infusion non-alcoholic beers. Terms of the LOI include TransCannas exclusive rights to the private labeled beers created at the Facility; a three-year commitment from Persuasion with a 180-day termination provision; compensation due to PBC for services rendered, which is to be determined based on a percentage of sales to dispensaries; and TransCanna to pay for the necessary equipment, including the canning and bottling lines. Both parties agree to adhere to all local and state laws. Completion of the transactions contemplated by the LOI remain subject to negotiation of final terms and completion of definitive documentation. Our 196,000-square-foot vertically integrated, cannabis-focused facility is perfectly designed to have a comprehensive bottling and canning line for multiple types of beverages. However, we firmly believe that our first beverage product subject to receipt of the appropriate licenses should be a private labeled non-alcoholic CBD-infused beer. We believe its the least expensive method to generate the greatest margins as quickly as possible, and that will continue to differentiate us from others in the marketplace, stated Jim Pakulis, CEO of TransCanna. The few companies in California that are currently in the non-alcoholic CBD-infused sector, based on my personal research, have done extremely well financially, stated Chad Swan, president of Persuasion Brewing Co. TransCanna is supplying the facility, capital, software, distribution and marketing platform, and well supply the intellectual property and knowhow to create a superb CBD-infused non-alcoholic beer. We currently have 16 various styles of beer on tap or in kegs, so to expand into this market is a natural fit. And the fact that the brewery is only a five-minute drive to TransCannas facility makes the logistics of moving equipment and staffing streamlined. The owner of Persuasion, Chad Swan, was a principal of the company that owned the Facility recently purchased by TransCanna. As previously reported, Mr. Swans company that owned the facility received 1.2 million warrants at US$2.60 and 500,000 restricted shares of TransCanna. About TransCanna Holdings Inc. TransCanna Holdings Inc. is a Canadian-based company focused on providing integrated branding, transportation and distribution services, through its wholly-owned California subsidiaries, to a range of industries including the cannabis marketplace. For further information, please visit the Companys website at www.transcanna.com or email the Company at info@transcanna.com . On behalf of the Board of Directors James Pakulis Chief Executive Officer Telephone: (604) 609-6199 The information in this news release includes certain information and statements about management's view of future events, expectations, plans and prospects that constitute forward looking statements. These statements are based upon assumptions that are subject to significant risks and uncertainties. Because of these risks and uncertainties and as a result of a variety of factors, the actual results, expectations, achievements or performance may differ materially from those anticipated and indicated by these forward looking statements. Forward-looking statements in this news release include, but are not limited to: the potential terms of the transaction, the ability of the Company to complete the transactions contemplated by the LOI and the receipt of necessary permitting. Any number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from these forward-looking statements as well as future results. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in forward looking statements are reasonable, it can give no assurances that the expectations of any forward looking statements will prove to be correct. Except as required by law, the Company disclaims any intention and assumes no obligation to update or revise any forward looking statements to reflect actual results, whether as a result of new information, future events, changes in assumptions, changes in factors affecting such forward looking statements or otherwise. Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Corporate Communications: NetworkWire (NW) New York, New York www.NetworkNewsWire.com 212.418.1217 Office Editor@NetworkWire.com Market leaders expand industrial additive manufacturing solution and drive innovation at new Siemens Polymer Competency Center News highlights: HPs new Jet Fusion 5200 Series industrial 3D printing system integrated with Siemens Digital Enterprise offering, combination of Digital Twins for product, production, and performance with MindSphere to enable mid-volume serial plastic parts production Companies collaborate to help auto and industrial customers create high-quality 3D printed parts faster; enabling unique product designs, new applications, and digital factories Siemens expands Additive Manufacturing Experience Center with new Polymer Competency Center to develop and demonstrate new applications suitable for industrial-scale 3D printing ERLANGEN, Germany, May 09, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- HP and Siemens today announced an expansion of their strategic alliance to help customers transform their businesses with industrial additive manufacturing (AM). Siemens, an innovation leader in automation and digitalization, and HP, the leader in industrial 3D printing, will expand their integrated additive manufacturing solution, incorporating new systems and software innovations including overall product lifecycle management (PLM), AM factory optimization, industrial 3D printing and data intelligence, manufacturing execution, and performance analytics. The integration of HPs new Jet Fusion 5200 Series 3D printing solution with Siemens Digital Enterprise offerings enables industrial companies to bring 3D printed parts to market faster, more cost-effectively, more sustainably, and at higher volumes than ever before. The companies announced the expanded alliance at an event to celebrate the addition of a new Polymer Competency Center to the Siemens Additive Manufacturing Experience Center (AMEC) in Erlangen, Germany, where HP also unveiled its new industrial-performance HP Jet Fusion 5200 Series 3D printing solution. We are excited to expand our collaboration with HP. Innovative partnerships and cutting-edge technologies such as additive manufacturing are essential for the digital transformation of companies across industries. Siemens and HP are thinking ahead to the future and are bringing together the best from both companies in a complete, industry-specific solution that will accelerate the adoption of industrial additive manufacturing and help our customers to increase flexibility, efficiency, and speed of digital manufacturing, said Klaus Helmrich, CEO of Siemens Digital Industries and member of the Managing Board of Siemens AG. We are proud to partner with Siemens to make high-performance parts, personalized products, and serialized 3D production a reality for our customers, said Christoph Schell, President of 3D Printing and Digital Manufacturing and member of the Executive Leadership Team at HP Inc. HP and Siemens share the vision that digital manufacturing systems are catalysts for change expanded software, data, services, and industrial production solutions that lead to new manufacturing capabilities, innovative applications, and breakthrough business results for our customers. The expanded additive manufacturing solution from Siemens and HP integrates hardware, software, data intelligence, and services to optimize the efficiency of the entire manufacturing process, from design and simulation through production planning, execution, quality, and control. This integrated, closed-loop environment, backed by the industrys leading forces, streamlines every phase of designing and 3D printing serialized parts with greater scale, higher quality, and less waste. As a provider of solutions and services we want to team up with strong partners that have the necessary expertise in materials and the manufacturing process to support them to produce 3D printing systems , explained Klaus Helmrich. The solution combines HPs 3D printing and 3D data platform, including its new HP Jet Fusion 5200 system, with Siemens Digital Industries Software including Siemens NX CAD/CAE, NX AM for HP Multi Jet Fusion software module with direct printer interface, undergoing certification by HP for its Jet Fusion 5200 Series to be available later this year, as well as Teamcenter for PLM, Tecnomatix Plant Simulation, Simatic IT for manufacturing execution, and MindSphere for performance analytics and Industrial IoT. HP and Siemens will continue to align future technology roadmaps to ensure customers can capitalize on the ongoing digital manufacturing innovations from both companies. HP and Siemens are building on a vision first established in 2016. Today, thanks to advances in HPs 3D printing systems and data intelligence portfolio and Siemens AM offerings, the integrated end-to-end solution has reached a level of efficiency that enables industries to viably 3D print high-quality parts at volume production, continued HPs Christoph Schell. The cooperation is coupled with the new Siemens Polymer Competency Center, which will be the focal point for the two companies to work jointly with automotive and industrial customers to create unique product designs, bring 3D printed parts to market faster, and set up digital factory environments that unleash the full potential of additive manufacturing. Volkswagen is a partner of both HP and Siemens and we are excited to see these market leaders join forces to unlock the power of industrial additive manufacturing. As one of the worlds largest auto groups, we see enormous opportunities for digital manufacturing technologies to speed our innovation cycle, bring new products to market faster, and improve our manufacturing efficiency and sustainability. We look forward to collaborating with HP and Siemens to explore more 3D printed applications that help us deliver even greater experiences for our customers, said Dr. Martin Goede, Head of Technology Planning and Development at Volkswagen. HP, Siemens, and their customers will initially explore exciting new applications in areas such as personalization, fluid dynamics optimization, and energy absorption, to name a few. About Siemens AG Siemens Digital Industries (DI) is an innovation leader in automation and digitalization. Closely collaborating with partners and customers, DI drives the digital transformation in the process and discrete industries. With its Digital Enterprise portfolio, DI provides companies of all sizes with an end-to-end set of products, solutions and services to integrate and digitalize the entire value chain. Optimized for the specific needs of each industry, DI's unique portfolio supports customers to achieve greater productivity and flexibility. DI is constantly adding innovations to its portfolio to integrate cutting-edge future technologies. Siemens Digital Industries has its global headquarters in Nuremberg, Germany, and has around 75,000 employees internationally. Siemens AG (Berlin and Munich) is a global technology powerhouse that has stood for engineering excellence, innovation, quality, reliability and internationality for more than 170 years. The company is active around the globe, focusing on the areas of power generation and distribution, intelligent infrastructure for buildings and distributed energy systems, and automation and digitalization in the process and manufacturing industries. Through the separately managed company Siemens Mobility, a leading supplier of smart mobility solutions for rail and road transport, Siemens is shaping the world market for passenger and freight services. Due to its majority stakes in the publicly listed companies Siemens Healthineers AG and Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy, Siemens is also a world-leading supplier of medical technology and digital healthcare services as well as environmentally friendly solutions for onshore and offshore wind power generation. In fiscal 2018, which ended on September 30, 2018, Siemens generated revenue of 83.0 billion and net income of 6.1 billion. At the end of September 2018, the company had around 379,000 employees worldwide. Further information is available on the Internet at www.siemens.com . About HP HP Inc. creates technology that makes life better for everyone, everywhere. Through our portfolio of personal systems, printers, and 3D printing solutions, we engineer experiences that amaze. More information about HP Inc. is available at www.hp.com/go/3DPrint . Forward-Looking Statements This news release contains forward-looking statements that involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions. If the risks or uncertainties ever materialize or the assumptions prove incorrect, the results of HP Inc. and its consolidated subsidiaries (HP) may differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements and assumptions. All statements other than statements of historical fact are statements that could be deemed forward-looking statements, including but not limited to any projections of net revenue, margins, expenses, effective tax rates, net earnings, net earnings per share, cash flows, benefit plan funding, deferred tax assets, share repurchases, currency exchange rates or other financial items; any projections of the amount, timing or impact of cost savings or restructuring and other charges; any statements of the plans, strategies and objectives of management for future operations, including the execution of restructuring plans and any resulting cost savings, revenue or profitability improvements; any statements concerning the expected development, performance, market share or competitive performance relating to products or services; any statements regarding current or future macroeconomic trends or events and the impact of those trends and events on HP and its financial performance; any statements regarding pending investigations, claims or disputes; any statements of expectation or belief; and any statements of assumptions underlying any of the foregoing. Risks, uncertainties and assumptions include the need to address the many challenges facing HPs businesses; the competitive pressures faced by HPs businesses; risks associated with executing HPs strategy; the impact of macroeconomic and geopolitical trends and events; the need to manage third-party suppliers and the distribution of HPs products and the delivery of HPs services effectively; the protection of HPs intellectual property assets, including intellectual property licensed from third parties; risks associated with HPs international operations; the development and transition of new products and services and the enhancement of existing products and services to meet customer needs and respond to emerging technological trends; the execution and performance of contracts by HP and its suppliers, customers, clients and partners; the hiring and retention of key employees; integration and other risks associated with business combination and investment transactions; the results of the restructuring plans, including estimates and assumptions related to the cost (including any possible disruption of HPs business) and the anticipated benefits of the restructuring plans; the resolution of pending investigations, claims and disputes; and other risks that are described in HPs Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year 2018, and HPs other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. HP assumes no obligation and does not intend to update these forward-looking statements. HPs Investor Relations website at http://www.hp.com/investor/home contains a significant amount of information about HP, including financial and other information for investors. HP encourages investors to visit its website from time to time, as information is updated, and new information is posted. A photo accompanying this announcement is available at http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/cafb764c-667d-4593-837b-b70c1a598efe Vast Resources plc / Ticker: VAST / Index: AIM / Sector: Mining 9 May 2019 Vast Resources plc (Vast or the Company) Increase in authorities to issue warrants as security for outstanding Mercuria Tranche A finance (or any replacement thereof) - cancellable on repayment of such finance Notice of General Meeting Vast Resources plc, the AIM-listed mining company, announces that a letter from the Chairman of the Company (the Letter) including a Notice of General Meeting has been posted to Shareholders late on 8 May 2019. A copy of the Letter and the Notice of General Meeting will be available on the Companys website at www.vastplc.com and the full text of the Letter follows in the appendix to this announcement below (the Appendix). The Letter refers to the Warrant Instrument issued as part of the security granted to Mercuria Energy Trading SA (Mercuria) in respect of the Tranche A finance granted to the Company by Mercuria under its prepayment agreement with the Company concluded on 21 March 2018 (the Prepayment Agreement). As a result of the fall in the Companys share price there is a requirement under the terms of the Warrant Instrument that the number of warrants issued to Mercuria as security for the outstanding amount to Mercuria under the Prepayment Agreement be increased, and the Letter requests Shareholders to grant authority to the Directors to augment the existing 565 million warrants issued to Mercuria as security by the issue of up to a further 1,750 million warrants. The exercise price of the warrants remains equal to the three month volume weighted average price of the Ordinary Shares of the Company for the period ended ten business days prior to the exercise of the warrants. Notwithstanding the requirement to issue further warrants to Mercuria, the Company is working closely with both Mercuria and the Swiss bank who, as announced on 29 April 2019, have issued to the Company a draft term sheet containing the material indicative terms for new finance. Should the term sheet be consummated on its current terms the Companys obligation to Mercuria would be repaid in full out of the new finance obtained, and Mercuria have indicated its interest to continue its existing offtake contracts with the Company subject to certain conditions. In view of the possibility of the repayment of Mercuria through the Swiss Bank or through similar alternative finance the Letter also requests Shareholders to grant authority to the Directors to issue up to 2,315 million warrants as security to any financier who repays the amount outstanding to Mercuria provided that the principal terms of such warrants are substantially similar to those issued to Mercuria and the warrants issued to Mercuria are cancelled. None of the Ordinary Shares pursuant to the authorities requested will be issued other than in the event of a default under the Prepayment Agreement or related agreements or in the event of a default under any replacement finance agreement. **ENDS** For further information, visit www.vastresourcesplc.com or please contact: Vast Resources plc Andrew Prelea (Chief Executive Officer) www.vastresourcesplc.com +44 (0) 20 7236 1177 Beaumont Cornish - Financial & Nominated Adviser Roland Cornish James Biddle www.beaumontcornish.com +44 (0) 020 7628 3396 SVS Securities Plc Joint Broker Tom Curran Ben Tadd www.svssecurities.com +44 (0) 20 3700 0100 SP Angel Corporate Finance LLP Joint Broker Ewan Leggat Caroline Rowe www.spangel.co.uk +44 (0) 20 3470 0470 St Brides Partners Ltd Catherine Leftley Juliet Earl www.stbridespartners.co.uk +44 (0) 20 7236 1177 Notes Vast Resources plc, is an AIM listed mining company with mines in Romania and Zimbabwe focused on the rapid advancement of high quality brownfield projects by recommencing production at previously producing mines in Romania and finalising its Chiadzwa Community Development Trust joint venture on the Heritage Concession (Block T1A of the Marange Diamond Fields) in Zimbabwe. The Companys portfolio includes an 80% interest in the Baita Plai Polymetallic Mine in Romania, where work is currently underway towards developing and recommissioning the mine on completion of funding. Vast Resources owns the Manaila Polymetallic Mine in Romania, which was commissioned in 2015, currently on care and maintenance, and is focused on its expansion through the development of a second open pit operation and new metallurgical complex at the Carlibaba Extension Area. Appendix LETTER FROM THE CHAIRMAN OF THE COMPANY Increase in authorities to issue warrants as security for outstanding Mercuria Tranche A finance (or any replacement thereof) - cancellable on repayment of such finance and Notice of General Meeting 2.30pm on 24 May 2019 Background It was announced on 29 April 2019 that in accordance with the Warrant Instrument that had been issued as part of the security to Mercuria Energy Trading S.A. (Mercuria) under the prepayment agreement entered into on the 21 of March 2018 with, amongst others, the Company (the Prepayment Agreement), the Company would shortly be calling a General Meeting in order to obtain authority for the Directors to increase the number of warrants to be issued to Mercuria as security for the outstanding instalment amounts now falling due to it by the Company. Under the Warrant Instrument, and as announced on 30 January 2018, and as confirmed by the Resolutions passed at the General Meeting of 14 February 2018, 565 million warrants were issued to Mercuria as security for any amount (including principal and interest) due by the Company and or any other party to the Prepayment Agreement in relation to Tranche A granted by Mercuria under the Prepayment Agreement (the Outstanding Amount). The exercise price of the warrants is equal to the three month volume weighted average price of the Ordinary Shares of the Company for the period ended ten business days prior to the exercise of the warrants. In view of the fall in the Companys share price the 565 million warrants no longer cover the Outstanding Amount, and the Company, in order to make up the shortfall, and in accordance with the requirements of the Warrant Instrument, is now seeking authority to issue a further 1,750 million warrants under the terms of the Warrant Instrument. At the same time the Company is seeking authority that, subject to Mercuria being repaid and the warrants issued to Mercuria being released, the Directors may issue warrants as security to obtain financing from other sources where such finance replaces that of Mercuria, provided that the principal terms of any warrants so issued are substantially similar to those issued to Mercuria. It must be emphasised that the number of warrants that could be exercised under the Warrant Instrument pursuant to the occurrence of an Event of Default as such term is defined in the Prepayment Agreement or related agreements with Mercuria (together referred to as a Warrant Instrument Event of Default) is limited to the cash value of the Outstanding Amount calculated by reference to the three month volume weighted average price of the Ordinary Shares 10 business days prior to the date of exercise. These warrants can only be exercised in the event of a Warrant Instrument Event of Default. They cannot be exercised in any other circumstances. Notwithstanding the requirement to issue further warrants to Mercuria, the Company is working closely with both Mercuria and the Swiss bank who, as announced on 29 April 2019, have issued to the Company a draft term sheet containing the material indicative terms for new finance. Should the term sheet be consummated on its current terms the Companys obligation to Mercuria would be repaid in full out of the new finance obtained, and Mercuria have indicated its interest to continue the existing Offtake contract for Manaila and pre agreed Offtake contract for Baita Plai subject to certain conditions. The Resolutions Resolution 1, if passed, will give authority to the Directors to issue up to 1,750 million Ordinary Shares in connection with the Warrant Instrument issued to Mercuria dated 13 March 2018, and Resolution 2, if passed, will give authority to the Directors to disapply pre-emption rights in respect of the 1,750 million Ordinary Shares. Resolution 3, if passed, will give authority to the Directors to issue up to 2,315 million Ordinary Shares in connection with a warrant instrument to be issued to a financier who provides sufficient finance to the Company to repay Mercuria in full, provided that the principal terms of any such warrant instrument are substantially similar to the Warrant Instrument issued to Mercuria and that the warrants issued to Mercuria have been cancelled, and Resolution 4, if passed, will give authority to the Directors to disapply pre-emption rights in respect of the 2,315 million Ordinary Shares. None of these Ordinary Shares will be issued other than in the event of a Warrant Instrument Event of Default or of a default under any replacement finance agreement. General Meeting and Action to be taken by Shareholders Attached to this letter is a Notice convening the General Meeting to be held at the Companys registered office, 60 Gracechurch Street, London EC3V 0HR at 2.30pm on Friday 24 May 2019 to consider the Resolutions. Shareholders have been sent a Form of Proxy for use at the General Meeting. Whether or not Shareholders intend to be present at the General Meeting, they are requested to complete and return the Form of Proxy in accordance with the instructions printed thereon. To be valid, completed Forms of Proxy must be received by the Registrar as soon as possible and in any event not later than 2.30pm on 22 May 2019, being 48 hours before the time appointed for holding the General Meeting. Completion of a Form of Proxy will not preclude Shareholders from attending the meeting and voting in person if they so choose. Recommendation The Directors unanimously recommend Shareholders vote in favour of the Resolutions to be proposed at the General Meeting as they intend to do so in respect of their own beneficial holdings amounting in aggregate to 118,749,468 Ordinary Shares representing approximately 1.49% of the Companys existing Ordinary Shares. Brian Moritz Chairman 8 May 2019 The rain contributed to several wrecks in the Houston area overnight, including a collision in Houston's Timbergrove community that involved a Houston Police Department officer. No one was injured in the wreck, authorities told Metro Video. Mountain View, CA, USA, May 09, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Increasingly, enterprises are adopting open source technology for their identity and access management (IAM) to facilitate innovation; avoid vendor lock-in; and improve cost-effectiveness, flexibility and adaptability. At the KuppingerCole European Identity & Cloud Conference 2019 (EIC 2019), WSO2 CTO and Co-Founder Paul Fremantle will deliver a keynote on the key considerations in choosing an IAM solution and weighing the benefits of an open source approach. WSO2 is a Platinum sponsor of EIC 2019, which will run May 14-17, 2019 at the Infinity BallhausForum in Munich, Germany. In addition to the keynote, WSO2 IAM and Open Banking experts will present sessions on best practices. WSO2 identity experts also will be available at its booth to demonstrate how WSO2 Identity Server provides enterprises with a comprehensive IAM open source solution. Keynote on Open Source IAM: Strengths and Opportunities WSO2 CTO and Co-founder Paul Fremantle will examine the importance of adopting a holistic IAM solution to govern and secure the interactions between the increasing number of endpoints in enterprisesfrom mobile, web and cloud apps to millions of connected devices. He then will explore the factors that need to be considered when choosing an IAM solution. Finally, Paul will review how adopting open source IAM technology can enable greater agility in managing user identities internally and across an enterprises ecosystem. The keynote will be held from 5:00 p.m. 5:20 p.m. on Tuesday, May 14, 2019, in the Auditorium. Privacy by Design in System Design Strategy WSO2 Director of IAM, Sagara Gunathunga will explore why enterprises should invest in taking a Privacy by Design (PbD) approach rather than simply applying individual privacy standards. He then will assess the impact of each PbD principle and examine how to implement PbD in a systems design based on proven industry best practices. This session will be held from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Wednesday, May 15, 2019, at Ammersee 1. Consumer Consent - The Make or Break of Your PSD2 Compliance Implementation WSO2 Senior Technical Lead and Open Banking Team Lead Lalaji Sureshika will explore the role of consent management for banks complying with the second Payment Services Directive (PSD2) and the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). She then will discuss the lifecycle of consumer consent and the critical factors that affect the success of implementing centralized consent management. Additionally, she will explore the key technical capabilities required for a comprehensive consent management solution. This session will be held from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, May 15, 2019, at Ammersee 1. WSO2 Demos Open Source IAM Solution Featured in New KuppingerCole Report The WSO2 booth at EIC 2019 will have identity experts available to demonstrate how WSO2 Identity Server provides a comprehensive, open source IAM solution for managing customer, partner, and employee identities. The software is optimized for identity federation and single source sign-on (SSO) with comprehensive support for adaptive and strong authentication. It helps identity administrators to federate identities, secure access to web and mobile applications and endpoints, and bridge versatile identity protocols across on-premises and cloud environments. WSO2s IAM solution is highlighted in the recently published KuppingerCole Executive View report on WSO2 Identity Server, which observes that Identity Management solutions need to address the growing number of identities associated with applications and endpoints, as well as the ability to integrate with the diversity of application and service APIs. In evaluating WSO2 Identity Server, the KuppingerCole report states that, Using an open source model allows organizations to innovate by extending the open source code base and help avoid vendor lock-in, although it does require an annual subscription to get the full support an enterprise will need. The report further notes that WSO2 Identity Server takes some innovative approaches to solve identity challenges in the market today making it a product worth being evaluated. The full report can be downloaded here: https://wso2.com/resources/analyst-reports/kuppingercole-executive-view-identity-server-2019-q2/ About KuppingerCole Analysts AG KuppingerCole Analysts AG, founded in 2004, is an international and independent analyst organization headquartered in Europe. The company specializes in offering neutral advice, expertise, thought leadership and practical relevance in Information Security, Identity & Access Management (IAM), Governance (IAG), Risk Management & Compliance (GRC) as well as all areas concerning the Digital Transformation. About WSO2 WSO2 is the worlds #1 open source integration vendor, helping digital-driven organizations become integration agile. Customers choose us for our broad integrated platform approach to open source, and agile transformation methodology. The companys hybrid platform for developing, reusing, running and managing integrations prevents lock-in through open source software that runs on-premises or in the cloud. Today, hundreds of leading brands and thousands of global projects execute 6 trillion transactions annually using WSO2 integration technologies. Visit https://wso2.com to learn more. Trademarks and registered trademarks are the properties of their respective owners. LAS VEGAS, May 09, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Item 9 Labs Corp. (OTC: INLB) (Item 9 Labs or the Company), a leader in comfortable cannabis health solutions for the modern consumer, today announced its medical cannabis cultivation and processing facility Strive Wellness of Nevada will prioritize sustainable initiatives throughout construction. Item 9 Labs broke ground on the project in April 2019 and will be producing legal medical cannabis products under organic practices by Q4. Located in Pahrump, Nevada, the 20,000 square-foot operation includes distribution rights. It is incredibly rewarding to see the Nevada cultivation and processing facility come to life, stated CEO Sara Gullickson. Ultimately, this license led me to forge my partnership with Item 9 Labs, which has evolved into a strong relationship of shared values and vision. Together, we are bringing best of industry practices to operations across the country. In November 2018, Item 9 Labs partnered with Bowden Investment Group to assist with environmentally friendly building strategies. The group is noted for constructing the first 100% sustainable apartment complex in Scottsdale, Arizona. With such a great and natural product under the roof, it only makes sense to combine a sustainable approach to the way we build and outfit the facility with the best materials and the latest, most efficient equipment for growing, stated Andrew Bowden, CEO of Bowden Investment Group and Item 9 Labs board member. Bowden Investment Group is currently enhancing Item 9 Labs Arizona cultivation and processing facility by introducing state-of-the-art custom environmental and irrigation controls, as well as an upgraded lighting system to increase efficiency and reduce energy use. Item 9 Labs will be operating as licensed dispensaries, cultivation, and manufacturing facilities in a projected six to ten U.S. markets by the end of 2019. For information visit Item9LabsCorp.com. About Item 9 Labs Corp.: Item 9 Labs Corp. (OTC: INLB) creates comfortable cannabis health solutions for the modern consumer. The Company is bringing best of industry practices to markets from coast to coast through cultivation and production, distinctive retail environments, licensing services, and diverse product suites catering to different medical cannabis demographics. Item 9 Labs Corp. is headquartered in Phoenix, Arizona, with medical cannabis operations in multiple U.S. markets. Item 9 Labs Corp.s asset portfolio includes Dispensary Permits, Dispensary Templates, and Strive Life. These assets provide services specific to different stakeholder groups. Dispensary Permits is the Companys consulting firm specializing in strategic license application and compliance. Dispensary Templates, a subdivision of the firm, is a technology platform with an extensive digital library of licensing and business planning resources. Strive Life is a turnkey dispensary model for the retail sector, elevating the patient experience with consistent and superior service, high-end design, and precision-tested products. It is currently being implemented in Arizona and North Dakota. In addition, Item 9 Labs Corp. is advancing the industry with its dynamic product suites. The Company has created complementary brands Item 9 Labs and Strive Wellness to channel consumer diversity. Propriety delivery platforms include the Apollo Vape and Pod system, as well as a pioneering intra-nasal device. The Company has received multiple accolades for its medical-grade flower and concentrates. Item 9 Labs Corp. will be managing cultivation, processing, distribution, and dispensary operations in up to ten U.S. markets by the end of 2019. Current facilities include distribution and processing operations Strive Wellness of Ohio and Strive Wellness of Nevada, as well as dispensary Strive Life North Dakota. For more information, visit Item 9 Labs Corp. at www.Item9labscorp.com . Forward-Looking Statement: This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such statements involve risks and uncertainties, including, but not limited to, risks and effects of legal and administrative proceedings and governmental regulation, especially in a foreign country, future financial and operational results, competition, general economic conditions, proposed transactions that are not legally binding obligations of the company and the ability to manage and continue growth. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual outcomes may vary materially from those indicated. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking statements we make in this news release include the introduction of new technology, market conditions and those set forth in reports or documents we file from time to time with the SEC. We undertake no obligation to revise or update such statements to reflect current events or circumstances after the date hereof or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events. Media Contact: Neko Catanzaro Proven Media Neko@provenmediaservices.com (401) 484-4980 Investor Contact: Jeffrey Rassas Item 9 Labs Corp. Jeffrey@item9labs.com (602) 463-4246 Dublin, May 09, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Global Cocoa Butter Equivalent (CBE) Market (Volume, Value) - Analysis By Product Type, End-User, By Region, By Country: Opportunities and Forecast (2014-2024) - By Region, By Country" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. The Cocoa Butter Equivalent Market has been analyzed for the historical period of 2014-2018 and the forecast period of 2019-2024. According to the report, the global market is projected to display a robust growth represented by a CAGR of 8% during 2019-2024. The product segment of Palm Oil Fraction has been witnessing growth at a noteworthy rate over the past few years backed by low prices, easy availability and increased used in the cosmetics industry. Amongst the regions, Europe accounts for the largest regional share in the global cocoa butter equivalent market in 2018. Key factors driving the robust growth rate of Europe region include the presence of branded confectionery manufacturers along with increasing consumption of chocolate in the region. The report has covered and analyzed the potential of Global Cocoa Butter Equivalent and provides statistics and information on market size, shares and growth factors. The report intends to provide cutting-edge market intelligence and help decision makers take sound investment evaluation. Besides, the report also identifies and analyses the emerging trends along with major drivers, challenges and opportunities in the global respiratory care devices market. Additionally, the report also highlights market entry strategies for various companies across the globe. Scope of the Report Global Cocoa Butter Equivalent Market - Size, Growth, Forecast By Product Type (Shea Butter, Palm Oil Fraction, Kokum Butter, Illipe Butter and Others) By End User (Confectionery, Food and Beverages, Others) Regional Cocoa Butter Equivalent Market - Size, Growth, Forecast By Product Type (Shea Butter, Palm Oil Fraction, Kokum Butter, Illipe Butter and Others) By End User (Confectionery, Food and Beverages, Others) Cocoa Butter Equivalent Market - Size, Growth, Forecast By Product Type (Shea Butter, Palm Oil Fraction, Kokum Butter, Illipe Butter and Others) Other Report Highlights Market Dynamics - Drivers and Restraints Market Trends Porter Five Force Analysis Policy and Regulatory Landscape Competitive Landscape Company Analysis - AAK, Danisco, Fuji Oil Holdings Inc, IOI Group, Cargill., 3F Industries Ltd., Nisshin Oillio Feldaiffco, Manorma Group Key Topics Covered 1. Research Methodology 2. Executive Summary 3. Strategic Recommendations 4. Product Overview 5. Global Cocoa Butter Equivalent Market: Growth and Forecast 5.1 By Value (2014-2018) 5.2 By Value (2019-2024) 5.3 By Volume (2014-2018) 5.4 By Volume (2019-2024) 6. Global Cocoa Butter Equivalent Market-By Product Type, By Value 6.1 Global Cocoa Butter Equivalent Market- By Value: Breakdown(%) 6.3 Global Cocoa Butter Equivalent Market- By Palm Oil Fraction 6.4 Global Cocoa Butter Equivalent Market- By Shea Butter 6.5 Global Cocoa Butter Equivalent Market- By Kokum Butter 6.6 Global Cocoa Butter Equivalent Market- By Illipe Butter 6.7 Global Cocoa Butter Equivalent Market- By Other Cocoa Butter Equivalents 7. Global Cocoa Butter Equivalent Market-By Product Type, By Volume 7.1 Global Cocoa Butter Equivalent Market- By Volume: Breakdown(%) 7.2 Global Cocoa Butter Equivalent Market- By Shea Butter 7.3 Global Cocoa Butter Equivalent Market- By Palm Oil Fraction 7.4 Global Cocoa Butter Equivalent Market- By Kokum Butter 7.5 Global Cocoa Butter Equivalent Market- By Illipe Butter 7.6 Global Cocoa Butter Equivalent Market- By Other Cocoa Butter Equivalents 8. Global Cocoa Butter Equivalent Market-By End Users 8.1 Global Cocoa Butter Equivalent Market- By End Users: Breakdown(%) 8.2 Global Food and Beverages Cocoa Butter Equivalent Market 8.3 Global Confectionery Cocoa Butter Equivalent Market, By Value 8.4 Global Other End Users Cocoa Butter Equivalent Market, By Value 9. Global Cocoa Butter Equivalents Market: Regional Analysis 9.1 Global Cocoa Butter Equivalents Market, By Region: Breakdown (%) 9.2 North America Cocoa Butter Equivalent Market: An Analysis 9.3 North America Cocoa Butter Equivalent Market: Segment Analysis 9.4 North America Cocoa Butter Equivalents Market: Country Analysis (U.S., Canada, Mexico) 9.5 Europe Cocoa Butter Equivalent Market: An Analysis 9.6 Europe Cocoa Butter Equivalent Market: Segment Analysis 9.7 Europe Cocoa Butter Equivalent Market: Country Analysis (U.S., Canada, Mexico) 9.8 Asia Pacific Cocoa Butter Equivalents Market: An Analysis 9.9 Asia Pacific Butter Equivalent Market: Segment Analysis 9.10 Asia Pacific Cocoa Butter Equivalent Market: Country Analysis (China, India, South Korea, Rest of Asia Pacific) 9.11 Rest of World Cocoa Butter Equivalents Market: An Analysis 9.12 Rest of World Butter Equivalent Market: Segment Analysis 9.13 Rest of World Cocoa Butter Equivalents Market: Country Analysis (U.K., Germany, France, Rest of Europe) 10. Market Dynamics 10.1 Market Drivers 10.2 Challenges 11. Market Trends 12. Porter's Five Forces Analysis 13. SWOT Analysis 14. Policy and Regulatory Landscape 15. Company Profiles 15.1 AAK 15.2 Danisco 15.3 Fuji Oil Holdings Inc. 15.4 IOI Group 15.5 Wilmar International 15.6 Cargill Inc. 15.7 3F Industries Ltd. 15.8 Nisshin Oillio Group Ltd. 15.9 Felda Iffco 15.10 Manorama Group For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/b09czy If social media is any indication, North Table Mountain Ecological Reserve in Butte County is becoming a popular destination for people who want to see some spectacular flowers without slogging through Southern California traffic of the kind that choked I-15 as Instagram-happy tourists swarm the superbloom east of Lake Elsinore. As a rule, Northern California doesn't get actual superblooms in the same way Southern California does, because the wetter climate allows for the survival of non-native grasses that crowd out the wildflowers, botanists explained to SFGATE in March. MORE: Thousands overwhelm California town to see superbloom But the explosion of flowers in Butte County is a spectacular sight, regardless of its technical classification. Click through the gallery above to see photos of Butte County's stunning wildflowers "Hikers are basking in the beauty of a super bloom along the 2-mile trail to the always popular Phantom Falls." wrote KCRA earlier this month. "The vibrant green hillsides have been painted in shades of yellow, pink, orange and purple as wildflowers thrive in the moist soil." "Wildflowers go on and on," KCRA's Mark Finan said in late April. "Add in some waterfalls, and you have a must visit spring location." Down south, there's been a dark side to the superbloom, which has seen a rise in the number of people loving the flowers to death and just generally behaving badly -- trampling flowers, ignoring road closures only to drive their cars straight into patches of mud, and, in one eyebrow-raising case, even landing a helicopter on top of a patch of plants. One popular wildflower-spotting blog has stopped reporting the location of flowers, because they don't want to be responsible for people destroying them. ALSO: Massive swarm of butterflies reaches Northern California Luckily, there haven't been many reports of these types of destructive behavior out of Butte County so far just people enjoying the beautiful landscape. Visitors who'd like to see the flowers and waterfalls of the North Table Mountain Ecological Reserve should buy a lands pass from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. Daily passes are $4.58 and annual passes are $25.93. LONDON Tired but beaming, new parents Meghan and Prince Harry presented their 2-day-old son to the world as he slumbered Wednesday and also revealed his name: Archie. The royal couple, known as the Duke and Duchess of Sussex since their marriage not quite a year ago, said the full name of the child born seventh in line to the British throne is Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor. The baby slept peacefully through his carefully orchestrated media moment. His mother, making her first public appearance since giving birth early Monday, called Archie a dream who has the sweetest temperament. Hes really calm, Meghan said. Harry quipped: I wonder who he gets that from. Harry and Meghan did not choose an aristocratic title for their son. He is not a prince but could have been given the title Lord before his first name. Instead he will be known for now as Master Archie Mountbatten-Windsor. The surname, used by some members of the royal family, was created to recognize the lineage of both Queen Elizabeth II and her husband, Prince Philip. Unlike many senior royals, Archie has only one middle name. Prince Harrys full name is Henry Charles Albert David. The couple did not disclose why they chose his first and middle names though the meaning of Harrison, son of Harry, is probably a clue. Many in Britain had expected a more traditional royal name, with bookmakers taking many bets on Alexander, Arthur and James. Archie, a name of Germanic origin with meanings that include genuine, bold and brave, is an increasingly popular baby name in Britain. It was among the top 20 most common boys names in 2017, according to the U.K.s Office for National Statistics. Tourists visiting Windsor Castle, which is nearby the royal residence outside London that Meghan and Harry moved into last month, mulled over the babys name. Surprise seemed to be the most common reaction. A mouthful for him, Elizabeth Barker, an Irish tourist, said laughing. But anyway, I guess, if thats what they wanted, then its the name that they like. You know, nobody has to like it. The babys name was announced a few hours after his proud parents posed with him for cameras, helping to satisfy a huge global appetite since their son was born Monday. Jill Lawless and Danica Kirka are Associated Press writers. SEOUL North Korea fired two suspected short-range missiles toward the sea on Thursday, South Korean officials said, its second weapons launch in five days and a possible warning that nuclear disarmament talks with Washington could be in danger. South Koreas Joint Chiefs of Staff said the weapons flew 260 miles and 167 miles, respectively. It said it is working with the United States to determine more details, such as the types of weapons that were fired. Also Thursday, the U.S. seized a North Korean shipping vessel that was violating American law and international sanctions, the Justice Department announced, according to the New York Times. Prosecutors said the carrier ship, the Wise Honest, was being used to export North Korean coal, a critical sector of the Norths economy that the United States and the United Nations have aggressively imposed sanctions on in an effort to force Pyongyang to end its nuclear weapons program. The latest launches came as U.S. Special Representative for North Korea Stephen Biegun visits South Korea, and hours after the North described its firing of rocket artillery and an apparent short-range ballistic missile on Saturday as a regular and defensive military exercise. North Korea also ridiculed South Korea for criticizing those launches. President Trump said hes not happy about North Koreas recent military tests. Trump told reporters at the White House on Thursday that were looking at the situation very seriously right now. He said the weapons are smaller, short-range missiles, but adds: Nobodys happy about it. Trump, who has met with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un twice now, said: I dont think theyre ready to negotiate. South Korean President Moon Jae In urged North Korea to refrain from actions that could impede diplomacy. In an interview with the KBS television network, Moon also said Seoul will explore various options to help revive the talks, including providing food aid to the North and pushing for his fourth summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. I want to tell North Korea once again that its not ideal to repeat actions that create various interpretations of its intent, raise concern and risk throwing cold water on the atmosphere of dialogue and negotiations, said Moon, a liberal who facilitated contacts between the U.S. and North Korea last year. Some analysts have said that if North Korea resumes testing the kind of longer-range banned ballistic weapons that it fired in unusually large numbers in 2017 when many feared a U.S.-North Korea standoff could end in war it may signal that North Korea is turning away from diplomacy. South Korean and U.S. officials have described what North Korea fired Saturday as projectiles, a broader term that includes both missiles and artillery pieces. This could be an effort to keep diplomacy alive as U.N. sanctions bar North Korea from engaging in any ballistic activity. Some observers say North Korea may fire more missiles, including medium-range ones, to increase the pressure on the United States. Kim Tong Hyung, Hyung Jin Kim and Foster Klug are Associated Press writers. JOHANNESBURG South Africas long-governing African National Congress party appeared headed for a victory in national elections, partial results showed on Thursday, though its support seemed to have dipped under the leadership of President Cyril Ramaphosa. The party led with 57% of the vote, with ballots for the national Parliament and provincial legislatures counted in about 67% of polling stations nationwide. The governments Council for Scientific and Industrial Research and some local news organizations projected that the ANC would end up with less than 60% of the vote a symbolically important threshold that the party has not failed to cross since coming to power in 1994 at the end of apartheid. The party needs only a majority of seats in Parliament to remain in power and to give Ramaphosa a five-year presidential term. But Ramaphosas allies had hoped for a decisive victory that would hand him a strong mandate to silence rivals and fulfill his pledge of rooting out corruption in the party and in government. In the last general election, in 2014, the ANC won 62% of the vote under Jacob Zuma, the scandal-tainted leader that Ramaphosa ousted as South Africas president last year. Ramaphosas allies had hoped that he would halt the decline of the ANC, whose share of the national vote peaked at 70% in 2004, but has been falling steadily since. In the northern province of Gauteng, a key battleground, the race to control the legislature was too close to call, with the ANC getting just 50% with ballots tallied at about 27% of polling stations. If the party fails to win a majority, it could be forced to form a coalition to keep control of Gauteng, home to Johannesburg and Pretoria, the commercial and political capitals, and home to the nations largest concentration of black middle-class voters. Nationwide, the incomplete results indicated voter turnout of 66%, down from 73% in 2014. Political analysts and party officials attributed the decline to several reasons: increasing disillusionment with South Africas political system; apathy, especially among younger voters; and inclement weather on Election Day in many parts of the country. In Sharpeville, where anti-apartheid activists were massacred in 1960, Lazarus Mohapi, 51, said he had voted reluctantly, for the ANC. It wasnt easy, he said of the decision, but Im giving the ANC one last chance. Norimitsu Onishi is a New York Times writer. We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. This includes cookies from third party social media websites and ad networks. Such third party cookies may track your use on Sharedots sites for better rendering. Our partners use cookies to ensure we show you advertising that is relevant to you. If you continue without changing your settings, we'll assume that you are happy to receive all cookies on Sharedots website. However, you can change your cookie settings at any time. Learn more Danish English Noerresundby, Denmark, 9 May 2019 Announcement no. 25/2019 RTX is pleased to announce that we have signed a patent license agreement with Gigaset, headquarted in Germany. The agreement covers the lifetime of the IP rights licensed and an obligation to pay a royalty for the use of the IP rights. The agreement covers IP rights associated with DECT multicell base technology - an RTX patented core technology used in enterprise communication solutions. RTX and Gigaset have a long-term partnership within DECT technology used in domestic and enterprise applications. Forward-looking statements This agreement is part of RTX's strategy of utilizing the company's patented technology also through strategic license agreements and it does not change RTXs previous financial guidance for the financial year of 2018/2019. Yours sincerely RTX A/S PETER RPKE CEO Enquiries and further information: CEO Peter Rpke, tel +45 96 32 23 00 RTXs homepage: www.rtx.dk RTX A/S is a leading provider of wireless solutions. Headquartered in Denmark and satellites in Hong Kong and the US, RTX employs nearly 300 people and revenue reached DKK 475m in 2017/18. RTXs shares are listed on Nasdaq Copenhagen. For more information on RTX, visit www.rtx.dk. Page Content Whistleblowers who expose violations of European Union (EU) law will soon be protected from retaliation throughout the EU under a new directive that the European Commission and member states have agreed to. The commission proposes new laws, and the EU Parliament and Council of the EU adopt them. The directive, which the European Parliament approved April 16, will set EU-wide standards of protection for whistleblowers for the first time, according to Jean-Francois Gerard, an attorney with Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer in Brussels. Currently, only 10 EU countriesFrance, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Lithuania, Malta, the Netherlands, Slovakia, Sweden and the United Kingdomhave comprehensive laws protecting whistleblowers. Remaining EU countries grant only partial protection, covering only public servants, specific sectors or specific types of wrongdoings. "The directive is significant as another confirmation of the importance and value of a corporate 'speak-up culture,' " Gerard noted. "But it is just one part of the equation. Whistleblowing is on the rise. Companies will want to have a global approach to these issues, including clear and ambitious global policies and internal procedures, with the EU framework potentially being used as a reference worldwide." Formal approval by the Council of the EU is required before the draft is finalized. The council's approval is likely to be delayed until the fall due to upcoming European parliamentary elections, according to Simon McMenemy, an attorney with Ogletree Deakins in London. But the European Parliament and the council have agreed on the content of the directive. Specifics of the Directive The directive will establish safe channels for reporting both within an organization and to public authorities. It will protect whistleblowers against dismissal, demotion and other forms of retaliation. The directive seeks to introduce minimum standards to protect people working in the private and public sectors from retaliation for reporting breaches of laws in a wide range of significant EU policy areas. Areas covered include corporate taxation, data protection, public procurement, protection of the EU's financial interests, food and product safety, environmental protection, animal health and welfare, and nuclear safety. Member nations may extend the whistleblower rules to additional areas. A whistleblower is defined as someone reporting or disclosing information on violations of EU law that he or she observes while performing work-related activities. To avoid penalizing people acting in good faith, whistleblowers who had reasonable grounds to believe the information reported was true at the time of reporting also are protected. The directive covers employees, consultants, contractors, suppliers, volunteers, unpaid trainees and job applicants. Companies with 50 or more employees, or with an annual revenue of over 10 million euros (approximately US$11.19 million), will be required to establish internal procedures to handle whistleblowers' reports. States, regional administrations and municipalities with over 10,000 inhabitants also will be covered. Each covered organization must designate a person or department responsible for receiving and following up on reports. Companies must acknowledge receipt of an internal complaint within seven days and must respond to the whistleblower within three months. Initial Internal Reporting Encouraged The directive encourages internal reporting as an initial step if the breach can be effectively addressed within the employee's organization and when the whistleblower doesn't risk retaliation. Whistleblowers may report directly to government authorities without first making internal disclosures, depending on the circumstances. Whistleblowers may make a public disclosure if: Imminent or manifest danger to the public interest exists; They reasonably believe destruction of the evidence or retaliation against them is imminent; Appropriate action wasn't taken in response to the whistleblower's initial report; or Reporting to the authorities would not work, such as in cases of collusion with the authorities. The impact of the directive will be significant for countries that don't currently have protections, McMenemy said, although it isn't likely to change much in the U.K. Although the directive is an important development, it does have limits, Gerard cautioned. For instance, whistleblowers will be protected only when reporting breaches of certain EU laws. The directive may also clash with other EU laws, such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), he said. [SHRM members-only toolkit: Introduction to the Global Human Resources Discipline] Will the Directive Be Uniformly Implemented? Member states will have two years from adoption to transpose the directive into national law. Questions remain as to whether it will be uniformly implemented. "There are always nuances in the way member states implement directives," Gerard said. "As whistleblowing touches on culture, it is likely that there will be even bigger variations in the way the directive is implemented across the EU" compared to previous directives. He noted that in the last round of negotiations, some member states, including France and Germany, wanted to give priority to internal reporting over external. "In implementing the directive, these countries are likely to try to limit the relative freedom to go public that the final text gives workers." McMenemy observed that the Working Time Directive 2003 has been implemented differently across the EU, with countries adopting maximum workweeks of 35 to 48 hours, and suggested that the variation may be due to cultural differences. On the other hand, he said, the GDPR was implemented pretty uniformly, so it's hard to predict how the whistleblower directive will be implemented. "It comes down to politics and culture in each country." Rosemarie Lally, J.D., is a freelance legal writer based in Washington, D.C. STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Wu-Tang fans will get an inside look at the notorious Staten Island hip-hop group this week. The highly anticipated docuseries, Of Mics and Men," detailing the formation of the group as told by its surviving members, airs Friday at 9 p.m. on Showtime. The four-part series will stretch over four weeks with all the episodes airing Fridays at 9 p.m. Here is how the network describes the docuseries, which made its first debut at the Tribeca Film Festival: Of Mics and Men looks back on the groups career, combining intimate and reflective interviews from each of the nine living members with never-before-seen archival footage and performances. Their ingenuity and entrepreneurial spirit brought them together to overcome the poverty, violence and oppression of their New York neighborhoods. But it was music and their shared lyrical genius that allowed them to form the most recognized musical movement in the world, all while walking the tightrope that links business with brotherhood. Newsday writer Glenn Gamboa called the docuseries the 'Avengers' of hip hop" in a recent review. Multiple scenes shown in the trailer were shot on Staten Island, or Shaolin as Wu-Tang calls it. The release of this series comes almost a week after the borough paid homage to the group, announcing the Wu-Tang Clan District in the Park Hill section of Clifton. The group is also behind a major project filming around Staten Island, titled Wu-Tang: An American Saga. Wu-Tang: An American Saga," set to shoot on the Island throughout the summer, has already filmed inside Bayley Seton Hospital, along Port Richmond Avenue and in the Clifton area. The Hulu series will track the clans formation and rise to become one of the unlikeliest of American success stories. STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- After controversy was sparked in Westerleigh over residents from Boro Park, Brooklyn, moving into the community and an eruv -- which is an overhead religious wire -- being installed, leaders of different faiths have stepped in to try and quell fears. At a closed-door Westerleigh Improvement Society meeting earlier this week at Immanuel Union Church -- where both press and non-Westerleigh residents were excluded -- an intense discussion among more than 150 people turned into the yelling of anti-Semitic comments, multiple sources told the Advance. They were checking your identification at the door; they never did that before," said one Westerleigh resident, who requested anonymity. She added that, once inside the meeting, some of the comments going back and forth made her feel as if she was at a Nazi rally. "At one point, we -- about 20 Jewish families -- stood up and walked out. ... I was in shock, she explained. Rabbi Michael Howald, of Temple Israel Reform Congregation in Randall Manor, who attended the meeting to help bridge people within the Westerleigh community, said he heard people in the crowd say, They are trying to replace us. I said that those words are [similar] to the words used in Charlottesville. I said, Thats troubling language because weve heard it before ...' People objected to me making that comparison, recalled Howald, calling some of the comments uttered aloud that night as showing bias against the Jewish community. The Advance was told that a large majority of those in attendance expressed disapproval of the eruv and new families moving into the community, while some residents remained silent observers throughout the meeting. Members of the Westerleigh Improvement Society say theyre not exhibiting any bias toward any one group. Westerleigh is a richly diverse community of residents who have a 100-year-plus history of joining together and enhancing the quality of life for all. The concerns voiced by a few people at the meeting comes from a place of helplessness and fear of the unknown. These concerns are fueled by published articles and events that speak to the changes that occur in neighborhoods when there is concerted effort to populate them, said the Westerleigh Improvement Society in a statement to the Advance. CONTROVERSY SPARKED BY ERUV The controversy was spurred by a Westerleigh Improvement Society campaign against an eruv installed in the neighborhood. An eruvs purpose is to make each individual who dwells within its boundaries a part owner of the enclosed area for certain Halachic purposes, according to Young Israel of Staten Islands website. One has long existed in Willowbrook. The Society has been in contact with Jewish representative for the past year. ... They ensured that an eruv would not be constructed around Westerleigh, which was continually repeated for nine months. It came to our attention in March that an eruv had secretly been installed around parts of Westerleigh, without knowledge or approval of any of the required responsible entities, said the Westerleigh Improvement Society. In a pamphlet distributed throughout Westerleigh and on a Facebook post, the Westerleigh Improvement Society called the eruv unsafe. However, Con Edison inspected the eruv in April,and said it was safe. The permits for it, however, have not yet been approved. Its still in the process of being approved, but we did go out there an inspect it for safety, and its safe, Bob McGee, a Con Ed spokesman, told the Advance on Saturday. Theres some additional documentation that is being reviewed. POSITIVE REACTION TO ERUV Many Westerleigh residents also have expressed positive reactions to the eruv and the influx of Orthodox Jewish people buying homes in Westerleigh. "Im speaking as a mom of a child at PS 30, who walks our dog in Westerleigh Park. My family in other New York boroughs rely on eruvs, to carry their keys and prayer books, said Lori Weintrob, a Westerleigh resident and director of the Wagner College Holocaust Center. Theres even an eruv around the White House. In time, I believe the community of Westerleigh will embrace the new families from the Chassidic community who also value faith and family, and a better dialogue will emerge. Westerleigh will benefit from the growth of kosher restaurants and kosher groceries. Id like to see more of the sentiment: Make Westerleigh Stronger: Love thy Neighbor, Embrace Diversity. Some progress was made at the meeting, but more needs to be done to diffuse misunderstandings, she added. People relocating to Staten Island from Brooklyn, including those who are of Orthodox Jewish faith, is not a new phenomenon. In fact, the Jewish Press reported that more than 300 Jewish families of Brooklyn -- many of them from Boro Park -- have relocated to Staten Island over the last four-and-a-half years. NOT SELLING SIGNS After the Westerleigh Improvement Society launched a campaign against the eruv, signs saying Not Selling, Westerleigh Strong," started popping up on area residents lawns. While some say the signs are simply targeted against Realtors who knock on doors asking if residents want to sell their homes, others say its to keep residents of Brooklyn -- specifically Boro Park -- from moving into the area. I got up [at the Westerleigh Improvement Society meeting] and said the installation of plastic piping on telephone poles, screws and clasps is really a red herring, said Rabbi Howald of Temple Israel Reform Congregation. There are hundreds of thousands of eruvs in the world; these things are not dangerous. They are part of life. Many people who live within eruvs dont even know they are there, he added. BRINGING THE COMMUNITY TOGETHER Despite negative comments from the crowd, there were people at the meeting who were interested in bridging the gap between the two communities, said Howald. Both Howald, and the Rev. Terry Troia, representing Communities United for Respect and Trust, went to the meeting to bring the Orthodox community and existing residents of Westerleigh together. The pair are among many interfaith clergy on the Island who schedule friendship dinners that help people learn about various religions. We try to bring together people of different backgrounds to talk about things that we share in common, so we can try to understand each other better, said Howald. Said Troia: We are trying to bring the community [of Westerleigh] together. I think the fact that people came up to us and gave us their emails and cell phone numbers unsolicited is a good sign. This is an opportunity for us to bring about some healing. I totally understand people being upset abut change, but we want to find a way to build a sense of community, she added. Said the Westerleigh Improvement Society: We would be profoundly grateful to Rev. Troia to help us bridge the gap between trust and understand in an effort to work together to evolve and develop a greater level of trust and realize common community goals that continue to make Westerleigh a place everyone is proud to call home. Anyone who would like to share their opinion about this controversy, should email porpora@siadvance.com. READ MORE HERE: STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- If you want to rejuvenate a room with a fresh coat of paint, you may want to consider how much preparation is required before you begin. Remember you must start with perfectly smooth surfaces to end up with perfectly painted walls, so there may be some prep work and repairs prior to opening your first can of paint. In most cases, you will need to remove the furniture from the room, or at least, place the furniture in the middle of the room, cover and wrap it with plastic sheets that are taped at the bottom. This will not only protect your furniture from paint drips and splatters, but also from the dust if any sanding is required. At minimum, your walls should be dusted and cleaned with a towel or vacuum cleaner to remove any small particles or cob webs that may have gathered on the surface. Greasy or dirty surfaces should be cleaned - kitchen and bathroom walls, mudrooms where kids kick off their muddy boots and scuff the walls, or the areas around light switches that show signs of discoloration from hands, all need to be washed down before starting your painting job to insure the paint spreads evenly. Once you have a clean surface, inspect the entire wall surface by holding a utility light close to the wall. The light will highlight flaws that aren't obvious to the naked eye. This can provide a clearer picture of how much work will be required prior to painting. As your home ages and settles, surface cracks, nail pops and taping imperfections may have surfaced, making your walls appear damaged. Or, there may be holes from doorknobs, dents from furniture, holes from shelving and picture hangers which may need to be repaired prior to beginning the paint job. These imperfections should be repaired but may require the skills of a professional who knows how to correctly fix the imperfections, utilizing the right tools and materials. If your walls are in decent shape, at minimum sand the walls from the baseboard to the ceiling with fine-grit sanding paper on a sanding pole. Then sand horizontally along the baseboard and ceiling. Don't put a lot of pressure on the sanding pole or the head can flip over and damage the wall. This will smooth out any minor imperfections and prep the wall to receive the primer. Once your walls are prepped, protect lighting fixtures and trim with painters tape.Instead of laboriously taping or cutting around your switch plates, grab your screwdriver and take them off. Then you'll have perfect coverage around the plate without any mess. Make sure you have the right materials on hand; primer, paint-can opener, stir sticks, roller covers, paintbrushes (make sure you use the correct type as each type of paint requires different types of brushes and roller sleeves), paint tray, gloves, drop cloth and an extension pole for the roller. When covering your floors don't use bedsheets as drop cloths. Thin sheets will not stop splatters and spills from seeping through to your flooring. While plastic drop cloths can contain spills, they can be slippery. Use what the pros usecanvas drop cloths. They're not slippery and they absorb splatters. Whether you buy cheap or expensive roller covers, removing the loose fuzzy fibers is a must. Wrap some tape around your fingers and pat the sleeve. The fibers will stick to the tape. Continue this process until there are no fibers that appear on the tape. A high-quality primer will help to hide any small imperfections. If you have taped or compounded any areas of your walls, applying a primer first will ensure that the finish of your paint job is even, and does not appear blotchy. It is a good idea to consult with your local paint supplier to determine which supplies and materials will work best for your project, especially if you are taking it on yourself. Buying the right paint color can be challenging as color swatches are not always exact. The best way to overcome this is to try a few colors first. Many paint suppliers offer smaller cans of paint samples to allow consumers to see what it may look like in their space and with the room's lighting. You can test a few colors of paint on plaster board or oaktag and place it against the wall. It is a good idea to position these sample boards next to trim to make sure the colors blend well together. Don't cheap out on paint, rollers and brushes. A $3 plastic brush is going make it look like you smeared paint on the wall with a rake, and the bristles will fall out. Also, dont skimp on less expensive paint. Better paints will go on easy and offer the best coverage and will last a long time. You'll be able to wash fingerprints off the wall without taking the paint with it. And your whole job will just go quicker and easier. For more specific information about your painting project, speak with a professional. They can help you select the right materials, offer advice and identify a reputable professional to assist with your project. It is always a good idea to seek expert advice to ensure your project comes out picture perfect. Peter & Julie Monzi, Owners Shamrock Paints & Decorating Center (718) 981-1616 (North Shore) * (718) 966-9500 (South Shore) * wwww.shamrockpaints.com All our experts are licensed, bonded and insured members of the Home Improvement Contractors of Staten Island (HIC of Staten Island). Homeowners should always consult with licensed professionals, check a contractor's license through the NYC Department of Consumer Affairs (call 311 for information) and ensure that their project complies with NYC DOB regulations before embarking on any home improvement project. For more information contact us at (718) 356-2323 or visit www.hicofsi.org. To ask your home improvement questions contact: questionsfortheexpert@gmail.com. STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- The NYPD is seeking the publics assistance in identifying a man sought for questioning in connection to a robbery in Port Richmond. At approximately 4:30 p.m. on Mar. 5, a a 39-year-old male victim was forcibly removed from the S46 MTA bus by an unidentified male after a verbal dispute, according to a written statement from the NYPDs Deputy Commissioner of Public Information. Once the two individuals were off the bus, the victim was punched and kicked by the male, who then fled with the victims property in an unknown direction, according to police. The victims phone and wallet were taken, the NYPD statement said. EMS responded to the scene and transported the victim to Richmond University Medical Center in West Brighton, where he was treated for a broken arm, pain and bruising, according to police. Surveillance video of the unidentified individual taken from an MTA bus was provided by the NYPD. The person wanted for questioning is described as black male in his late teens or early twenties and was last seen wearing a camouflage vest and dark jacket, police said. STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- The 14th Amendment to the United States Constitution guarantees every citizen the equal protection of the laws. Its goal is to give every person an equal opportunity to realize his or her maximum potential. Equal opportunity doesnt guarantee equal results, however, the latter being dependent on a variety of factors unique to each individual. While thats a common-sense proposition, its also one that todays social engineers refuse to accept. Hence, theyve become obsessed with imposing equal results on Americans institutions, both public and private, in the name of diversity. No longer does it matter if the most qualified people are on appellate court, a corporate board of directors, a town council, or an advisory committee on the nutritional benefits of smoked octopus. What matters is that all such entities and an endless succession of others are diverse. All of which is baloney, and a dangerous slab of it at that, because it strikes at the heart of Americas identity as embodied by the Equal Protection Clause. Stripped of pious platitudes, it seeks to achieve diverse results by discriminating against some generally because of race, color, sex or sexual orientation in order to promote others. Ironically, the self-styled progressives behind this nonsensical thinking are the same people obsessed with detecting and denouncing even a whiff of discrimination in traditional contexts. Such stark inconsistency, if not outright hypocrisy, seems to be lost on many Americans whove been duped into accepting diversity as the gold standard of all things good. The only meaningful resistance is in the area of education, and thats only because it hits so many families close to home. The controversy over plans to diversify New York Citys specialized high schools is a good example. Specialized test As mandated by the state Education Law, admission to eight of the schools, including Staten Island Technical High School, is by the very challenging Specialized High School Admissions Test. The resultant combination of brilliant young minds, dedicated teachers and rigorous curricula has been spectacularly successful. In its 2019 rankings, Niche, an educational evaluation company comprised of data scientists and engineers, names Staten Island Tech as the fifth best public high school in America. In sober times and among sober people, that would be cause for celebration. However, Mayor Bill de Blasio and Schools Chancellor Richard Carranza, wrongheaded diversity zealots, are fixated on the composition of the school. They claim that the status quo the spectacularly successful status quo is unacceptable because only one black student and 11 Hispanic students were among the 304 students to receive offers for admission to the fall 2019 freshman class. Which, in those sober times and among sober people, would be greeted with a quizzical so what? There is, after all, a reasonable, race-neutral explanation. Thats how many blacks and Hispanics qualified under the Specialized High School Admission Test, the objective criteria so pivotal to those spectacular results. Simple, right? Well, not to de Blasio. He says that the admission test creates a monumental injustice because for far too long our specialized high schools have failed to reflect the diversity of our city. With all due respect, the framers of the 14th Amendment would have thought him stark raving mad. Carranza, too. Heres the schools chancellors gem: Im proud to work with our mayor to foster true equity and excellence at our specialized high schools. True equity? To listen to Carranza, one would think that black and Hispanic students were barred from taking the admission test. Excellence? Its already there. You know, those spectacularly successful results. But it sure as blazes wont be there if he and de Blasio start packing the school with students who cant hack it. As Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas pointed out in his concurring opinion in Fisher v. Texas (2013), the pursuit of diversity as an end is nothing more than impermissible racial balancing. And thats precisely what de Blasio and Carranza are intent on doing here. And they plan to carry it out by calculated racial and ethnic discrimination against white and Asian-American students. America is a diverse nation, and much of its greatness springs from the contributions made by people of varying backgrounds, ethnic and otherwise. Diverse results the good kind are the natural consequence of every American being accorded the equal protection of the laws. When imposed by the governments iron hand, however, as de Blasio and Carranza seek to do with the citys specialized high schools, theyre a mockery of everything America has stood for since its founding. STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. If you were born in the 1960s, 70s, or early 80s, you probably need a measles booster shot, warns a top Staten Island ambulatory care doctor who has seen the wretched symptoms and complications of the viral infection firsthand. You feel like a train hit you, said Dr. Matthew Weeks, medical director of ambulatory care at Staten Island University Hospital, when describing the measles. It is extremely contagious. Within just a couple of days of being exposed, theres cough, fever. Your eyes get bloodshot. Complications like pneumonia are very common in adults. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that the measles outbreak continued to grow this past week, with 60 new cases added to its already-astronomical total for this year, the Advance previously reported. Between the span of Jan. 1 to May 3, 2019, 764 individual cases of the measles were confirmed in 23 states, which continued to extend the new high for year-to-date cases since the measles illness was eliminated from the United States in 2000. Weeks, who has treated dozens of cases of measles in his career, said those who were vaccinated in the 1960s through the early 80s were only give one dose, as was common practice until 1989. A booster shot is a good idea for those people, he said, noting that the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has issued that recommendation. Those vaccinated in the 1960s are particularly vulnerable, he said, because the vaccine distributed during those years was not a live vaccine and was less potent. "If youve only gotten one dose, you should consider getting a second shot, especially if you got it in the 60s,'' he explained. "People in the 60s likely got the weaker version.'' Outbreaks in New York City and New York state are among the largest and longest-lasting since measles was eliminated from the United States in 2000, the CDC said. Symptoms of measles begin with a fever, runny nose, cough, red eyes and sore throat, followed by a rash that spreads over the body, according to the agency. It is highly contagious and spreads through coughing and sneezing. It can lead to brain swelling and even death. Reports of measles in Newark Airport, in Brooklyn and in nearby Lakewood, N.J., are reason for concern, Weeks said, as the virus spreads so easily. "People talk about TB or whooping cough or the flu, but measles blows them all away,'' in terms of contagiousness, Weeks said. Those born before 1957 are considered immune because they most likely had the measles already. The booster shot, he said, isnt very painful as it isnt intra-muscular: "A little pinch,'' Weeks said. People should check with their insurance carrier to see about coverage before visiting their doctor, but as a preventative treatment it is most likely covered, he said. The vaccine is also available at pharmacies. If you were born in those decades and dont have access to your medical records, a booster shot will give you peace of mind, Weeks said. Some people born in the late 80s might have been given a second dose by a diligent doctor when the practice began in 1989. Those planning travel, especially foreign travel, should seriously consider getting the shot, he said, as several countries, including Israel, Ukraine and the Philippines are in the midst of outbreaks. "If they go to airports, Williamsburg, Brooklyn; parts of New Jersey, they really need to consider getting a second dose,'' he said. 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! French English GATINEAU, Quebec and OAKVILLE, Ontario, May 09, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- HEXO Corp ("HEXO") (TSX: HEXO; NYSE-A: HEXO) and Newstrike Brands Ltd. ("Newstrike") (TSX-V: HIP) are pleased to announce that they have received regulatory approval from the Canadian Competition Bureau by way of a no-action letter under the Competition Act (Canada) indicating that it does not intend to challenge the proposed arrangement between HEXO and Newstrike, whereby HEXO intends to acquire all of the issued and outstanding common shares of Newstrike by way of a plan of arrangement under the Business Corporations Act (Ontario) (the Transaction). Receipt of the letter satisfies a key condition of the Transaction. HEXO and Newstrike announced that they had entered into a definitive arrangement agreement with respect to the Transaction in March. The Transaction has already been unanimously approved by the board of directors of each of HEXO and Newstrike. In April, the companies announced that HEXO has entered into irrevocable hard voting support agreements with shareholders of Newstrike representing in aggregate approximately 38.3% of Newstrike's issued and outstanding common shares. The Transaction remains subject to customary closing conditions, including approval by Newstrike shareholders at Newstrikes Annual and Special Meeting on May 17, 2019, and final court approval. Subject to satisfaction of these closing conditions, the Transaction is expected to close by May 24, 2019. Newstrikes board of directors has recommended that its shareholders vote in favour of the Transaction. For further information, please contact: HEXO: Newstrike: Investor Relations: Jennifer Smith 1-866-438-8429 invest@hexo.com Investor Relations: 1-877-541-9151 ir@newstrike.ca Media Relations: Caroline Milliard 819-317-0526 media@hexo.com Media Relations: PM Rendon 365-773-5432 prendon@up.ca Director: Adam Miron 819-639-5498 Director: Jay Wilgar, CEO, Newstrike 905-844-8866 About HEXO HEXO Corp is an award-winning consumer packaged goods cannabis company that creates and distributes prize-winning products to serve the global cannabis market. Through its hub and spoke business strategy, HEXO Corp is partnering with Fortune 500 companies, bringing its brand value, cannabinoid isolation technology, licensed infrastructure and regulatory expertise to established companies, leveraging their distribution networks and capacity. As one of the largest licensed cannabis companies in Canada, HEXO Corp operates with 1.8 million sq. ft of facilities in Ontario and Quebec and a has foothold in Greece to establish a Eurozone processing, production and distribution centre. The Company serves the Canadian adult-use and medical markets. For more information please visit hexocorp.com . About Newstrike and Up Cannabis Newstrike is the parent company of Up Cannabis Inc., a licensed producer of cannabis that is licensed to both cultivate and sell cannabis in all acceptable forms. Newstrike, through Up Cannabis and together with select strategic partners, including Canadas iconic musicians The Tragically Hip, is developing a diverse network of high quality cannabis brands. For more information, visit http://www.up.ca or http://www.newstrike.ca Forward-Looking Information This news release contains forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of HEXO and/or Newstrike to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Often, but not always, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as "plans", "expects" or "does not expect", "is expected", "estimates", "intends", "forecasts", "projections", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", or "believes", or variations of such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved. Forward-looking statements in this news release include, but are not limited to: statements with respect to the completion of the Transaction and the timing for its completion; the satisfaction of closing conditions which include, without limitation (i) required Newstrike shareholder approval, (ii) necessary court approval in connection with the plan of arrangement, (iii) receipt of any required approvals under the Competition Act, (iv) certain termination rights available to the parties under the Arrangement Agreement, (v) HEXO obtaining the necessary approvals from the TSX and the NYSE American for the listing of its common shares in connection with the Transaction (vi). Newstrike receiving approval for the delisting of its shares on the TSX-V and (vii) other closing conditions, including compliance by HEXO and Newstrike with various covenants contained in the Arrangement Agreement; statements with respect to the effect of the Transaction on HEXO and its strategy going forward; statements with respect to the anticipated benefits associated with the acquisition of Newstrike; and HEXOs financial outlook for estimated net and gross revenues from the sale of cannabis in Canada for fiscal 2020. Forward-looking statements are based on certain assumptions regarding HEXO and Newstrike, including the completion of the Transaction, anticipated benefits from the Transaction, and expected growth, results of operations, performance, industry trends and growth opportunities. While HEXO and Newstrike consider these assumptions to be reasonable, based on information currently available, they may prove to be incorrect. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements and information contained in this press release. Since forward-looking statements and information address future events and conditions, by their very nature they involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Actual results could differ materially from those currently anticipated due to a number of factors and risks. Readers are cautioned that the foregoing list of factors is not exhaustive. The forward-looking statements contained in this news release are made as of the date of this release and, accordingly, are subject to change after such date. Newstrike does not assume any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether written or oral, that may be made from time to time by us or on our behalf, except as required by applicable law. Readers are cautioned that the foregoing list is not exhaustive. Readers are further cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements as there can be no assurance that the plans, intentions or expectations upon which they are placed will occur. Such information, although considered reasonable by management at the time of preparation, may prove to be incorrect and actual results may differ materially from those anticipated. For more information on the risk, uncertainties and assumptions that could cause anticipated opportunities and actual results to differ materially, please refer to the public filings of HEXO and Newstrike which are available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com, including the Risk Factors section in HEXOs Annual Information Form dated October 25, 2018, Newstrikes Annual Information Form dated May 30, 2018 and the most recent managements discussion and analysis filed by each of HEXO and Newstrike. Forward-looking statements contained in this news release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement and reflect our expectations as of the date hereof, and thus are subject to change thereafter. HEXO and Newstrike disclaim any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law. Notice to U.S. Holders. Both HEXO and Newstrike have been formed outside of the United States. The Transaction will be subject to disclosure requirements of Canada that are different from those of the United States. Financial statements included in the documents, if any, will be prepared in accordance with Canadian accounting standards and may not be comparable to the financial statements of United States companies. It may be difficult for a securityholder in the United States to enforce his/her/its rights and any claim a securityholder may have arising under U.S. federal securities laws, since the companies are located in Canada, and some or all of their officers or directors may be residents of Canada or another country outside of the United States. A securityholder may not be able to sue a Canadian company or its officers or directors in a court in Canada or elsewhere outside of the United States for violations of U.S. securities laws. It may be difficult to compel a Canadian company and its affiliates to subject themselves to a U.S. court's judgment. Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Global insurer QBE has dodged a second shareholder "strike" on executive pay after it turned around its financial performance and revamped how it pays its most senior managers. As QBE reaffirmed its profit guidance on Thursday, chairman Marty Becker assured shareholders at its annual general meeting that the insurer had listened to investor feedback on manager pay packets. Shareholder frustration over its executive remuneration had boiled over last year against a backdrop of poor financial results. QBE Chairman Marty Becker said the company had listened to shareholders and rejigged the way it pays its top managers. Credit:Daniel Munoz While Mr Becker also faced a series of shareholder questions about the company's response to climate change following its recent decision to cut its exposure to coal mining, a resolution aimed at forcing it to set fixed fossil fuel exposure targets was strongly defeated. There was a 10.6 per cent vote against the remuneration report, compared with the whopping 45 per cent rejection last year. Buy now, pay later platform Afterpay was forced to adopt a different brand in the UK after a rival European company secured rights to use the Afterpay name in the critical market. The European incumbent is an Amsterdam-based company owned by Arvato the financial services arm of German conglomerate Bertelsmann. Arvato successfully opposed Afterpay Australia's attempt to trademark its name in the UK in June last year. Afterpay is dominating the buy now, pay later market in Australia. Credit:Louie Douvis Arvato's Afterpay offers a post-pay service where online shoppers can delay payment until after they receive the goods they have purchased. Arvato's Afterpay funds the transaction until the customer pays. Washington: President Donald Trump said on Thursday that the United States would raise tariffs on $US200 billion ($286 billion) of worth of Chinese goods on Friday morning (local time) and begin the process to tax nearly all of China's imports as he accused Beijing of trying to "renegotiate" a trade deal. But Trump, who made his comments ahead of a pivotal meeting between US and Chinese officials on Thursday afternoon, suggested an agreement could still be within reach, saying he had received a "beautiful letter" from Chinese President Xi Jinping and would probably speak to him by phone. "I have no idea what's going to happen," the President said in remarks at the White House. "We're going to find out about China tonight, and I think in the end you're going to be very impressed." The United States and China had been nearing a trade deal in recent months that would lift tariffs on each other's goods, open the Chinese market to American companies and strengthen China's intellectual property protections. But that process halted suddenly last weekend, when China called for substantial changes to the negotiating text. Trump responded by threatening to raise existing tariffs to 25 per cent and impose new ones on an additional $US325 billion worth of products. His entourage includes Foreign Minister Pradeep Kumar Gyawali, Advisor to the PM Bishnu Prasad Rimal, Foreign Affairs Advisor Rajan Bhattarai, Bangladeshi Ambassador in Bangkok Khaganath Adhikari and a number of other high-ranking officials. Nepalese PM KP Sharma Oli was born on February 23, 1952, in Terathum, in eastern Nepal, and studied at the Himalaya Higher Secondary School. He joined the Communist Party of Nepal (CPN) in February 1970 and became head of the organising committee of the Jhapa Movement in 1972. He was imprisoned from 1973 to 1987. After his release, he became a member of the central committee of the Communist Party of Nepal (Unified MarxistLeninist) (CPN-UML) and was in charge of the Lumbini Zone until 1990. In 1990, he was the founding chairman of the National Democratic Youth Organisation. In 1991, he was the leader of the CPN-UML and a member of parliament. He held various positions before becoming Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister from April 2006 to March 2007. He was named Chairman of the CPN-UML in July 2014. From October 2015 to July 2016 and again from February until the present KP Sharma Oli has held the role of Prime Minister of Nepal. NEWMARKET, Ontario, May 09, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- AirBoss of America Corp. (TSX: BOS) (the "Company" or "AirBoss") announced today that it has entered into an agreement to form a new defense business, AirBoss Defense Group, through the merger of its AirBoss Defense business and other operations in Acton Vale, Quebec with Critical Solutions International, Inc. ("CSI"). CSI is a privately-owned U.S.-based company and is the leading global supplier of route clearance vehicles, countermine capability and survivability products to U.S. and foreign military forces. AirBoss will contribute the shares of AirBoss Engineered Products Inc. and the membership interests of Immediate Response Technologies, LLC to newly formed Canadian and U.S. entities that will form AirBoss Defense Group. Critical Solutions Holdings Inc. ("CSH") will contribute all of the shares of CSI to the newly formed business. AirBoss' contribution is valued at US$100 million and CSH's contribution is valued at US$32.7 million. In consideration, AirBoss will receive 55% of the equity in AirBoss Defense Group and US$60 million and CSH will receive 45% of the equity interest in AirBoss Defense Group. The US$60 million is anticipated to be in the form of a Vendor Takeback Note at closing and to subsequently be refinanced with third-party debt. Strategic and Financial Benefits of the Transaction for AirBoss Realizes partial value in the Defense business and operations in Acton Vale, Quebec, yielding solid returns for shareholders; Creates dedicated defense player that will be better positioned to capitalize on emerging opportunities arising from current geopolitical environment by combining the strength of AirBoss Defense in manufacturing and engineering design with CSI's expertise in global marketing and distribution of defense products; Diversifies product offering and provides significant cross-selling opportunities to an increasingly global combined customer base; Retains majority stake in the combined entity with enhanced long-term value creation potential; and Offers improved financial flexibility to fund planned capital expenditures, target potential acquisitions, as well as partially pay down debt. "This transaction creates an array of potential opportunities to diversify and grow the Defense business in a more focused way, while also supporting accelerated additional investment in our other wholly-owned lines of business," said Lisa Swartzman, President of AirBoss. "Longer-term we expect this dual-pronged approach to growth will yield better results than if we operated in our current structure." "The positive momentum in the U.S. and international defense markets supports the timing of this transaction," said CSI CEO Patrick Callahan. "By integrating the product innovation and advanced manufacturing capabilities of the AirBoss Defense business with the global business development strength of CSI, the newly launched AirBoss Defense Group will be well positioned to deliver a full spectrum of survivability solutions to servicemembers and first responders around the world." "AirBoss has a well-established reputation for industry-leading capabilities in engineering, R&D, product development and manufacturing," said Gren Schoch, Chairman and CEO of AirBoss. "Our commitment to developing innovative new products and solutions will be complemented by the sales, marketing and support capabilities that CSI brings to the table. On closing, we intend to identify additional potential synergies, consistent with our current focus on driving improved overall business performance across the organization." Acquisition Highlights CSI is located in Charleston, South Carolina and is the global leader in the development, systems integration and support of route clearance vehicles and servicemember survivability systems. An essential supplier to the U.S. and international defense and security services, CSIs products lead the way in the safe detection, identification and mitigation of hidden threats. AirBoss Defense Group will leverage CSI's extensive international customer network with AirBoss Defense's design, development and production know-how, which is expected to deliver additional value to an already engaged customer base. Following the closing, Patrick Callahan, the current CEO of CSI, will be the CEO of AirBoss Defense Group and Heather Miller, CSI's Chief Strategy Officer, will continue in this capacity for AirBoss Defense Group. Chris Bitsakakis, the COO of AirBoss, will also be the COO of AirBoss Defense Group. The transaction, which is expected to close during the second half of 2019, is subject to regulatory approval, including approval by The Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States ("CFIUS"), and to customary closing conditions. Houlihan Lokey Capital, Inc. is acting as financial advisor to AirBoss, while Davies Ward Phillips & Vineberg LLP is serving as AirBoss' legal counsel. Kirkland & Ellis LLP is serving as legal counsel to CSI and CSH, with Stikeman Elliott LLP serving as Canadian legal counsel. AirBoss of America Corp. AirBoss of America Corp. is a group of complementary businesses using compounding technology and engineering expertise to create value for its customers. With a capacity to process approximately 400 million turn pounds of rubber annually, AirBoss Rubber Solutions is one of North Americas largest custom rubber compounding companies and a leading supplier of essential calendered and extruded products for a broad range of applications. AirBoss Engineered Products is a world leader in the supply of life saving products for the military and a leading supplier of innovative anti-vibration solutions to the North American automotive market. The Companys shares trade on the TSX under the symbol BOS. Visit www.airbossofamerica.com . AIRBOSS FORWARD LOOKING INFORMATION DISCLAIMER Certain statements contained or incorporated by reference herein, including those that express managements expectations or estimates of future developments or AirBoss future performance, constitute forward-looking information or forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable securities laws, and can generally be identified by words such as will, may, could is expected to, believes, anticipates, forecasts, plans, intends or similar expressions. These statements are not historical facts but instead represent managements expectations, estimates and projections regarding future events and performance. Statements containing forward-looking information are necessarily based upon a number of opinions, estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable by management at the time the statements are made, are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive risks, uncertainties and contingencies. AirBoss cautions that such forward-looking information involves known and unknown contingencies, uncertainties and other risks that may cause AirBoss actual financial results, performance or achievements to be materially different from its estimated future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking information. Numerous factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking information, including without limitation: impact of general economic conditions; dependence on key customers; cyclical trends in the tire and automotive, construction, mining and retail industries; sufficient availability of raw materials at economical costs; weather conditions affecting raw materials, production and sales; AirBoss ability to maintain existing customers or develop new customers in light of increased competition; AirBoss ability to successfully integrate acquisitions of other businesses and/or companies or to realize on the anticipated benefits thereof, changes in accounting policies and methods, including uncertainties associated with critical accounting assumptions and estimates; changes in the value of the Canadian dollar relative to the US dollar; changes in tax laws and potential litigation; ability to obtain financing on acceptable terms; environmental damage and non-compliance with environmental laws and regulations; potential product liability and warranty claims and equipment malfunction. This list is not exhaustive of the factors that may affect any of AirBoss forward-looking information. All of the forward-looking information in this press release is expressly qualified by these cautionary statements. Investors are cautioned not to put undue reliance on forward-looking information. All subsequent written and oral forward-looking information attributable to AirBoss or persons acting on its behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by this notice. Forward-looking information contained herein is made as of the date of this press release and, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, AirBoss disclaims any intent or obligation to update publicly this forward-looking information except as required by applicable laws. Risks and uncertainties about AirBoss business are more fully discussed under the heading Risk Factors in our most recent Annual Information Form and are otherwise disclosed in our filings with securities regulatory authorities which are available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. Chevron said it will walk away from its deal to buy Anadarko Petroleum, pocketing the $US1 billion ($1.4 billion) breakup fee instead. The move allows Occidental Petroleum, backed by billionaire Warren Buffett, to acquire shale-rich Anadarko and avoid what could have been a costly bidding war. Wall Street was shocked by Chevron's decision to walk away from the bidding war. Credit:AP Chevron, one of the largest oil companies in the world and known for its financial discipline, had until Friday to decide whether to increase the $US33 billion cash-and-stock bid Anadarko accepted on April 12. Occidental threw a wrench into the process two weeks later when it came back with a $US38 billion offer. "Winning in any environment doesn't mean winning at any cost," Chevron chief executive Michael Wirth said in a statement released Thursday morning. "Cost and capital discipline always matter, and we will not dilute our returns or erode value for our shareholders for the sake of doing a deal." Occidental released a statement Thursday: "We look forward to signing a merger agreement with Anadarko and realising value for our stakeholders as soon as possible." Hughes says part of the time she spent starting the business involved researching a name. "I come from a business background, so I am not naive when it comes to this sort of thing and I felt I had done good due diligence," she says. "I looked in the marketplace and wanted a name that described what the business does in a clever portmanteau. There were lots of businesses around using the -kea suffix to describe the fact they were part of the Ikea ecosystem." Hughes points to Mykea, which makes adhesive wraps for Ikea furniture in the Netherlands, Mamakea, which provides Ikea assembly services in the United States, and Plykea, which makes doors and fronts for Ikea furniture in the United Kingdom. Other unrelated businesses that use the -kea suffix in a generic way to infer "market" or "store" include UK furniture retailer Oakea and US tobacco retailer Smokea. Deep pockets Kylie Hughes says she will not be intimidated by Ikea. Credit:Paul Harris Hughes registered the business name Stylkea and website name, but the problem came when she applied for a trademark. "That was when Ikea sent me their first cease-and-desist letter asking me to withdraw my trademark application," she says. "I said, 'No, my research tells me this should be OK because there is precedent for this.' My trademark was approved, but then it was advertised and other companies have a right to oppose it and Ikea did." Hughes says Ikea offered her $105 to cancel the business name and transfer the Stylkea domain to it. "They have very deep pockets and very short arms," she said. "I said to Ikea, 'I want us to find a way to co-exist.' I think it is a case of bullying. They put the heavy word on me before the trademark was approved because they just wanted to bully me out of it." Hughes is representing herself in the trademark battle before IP Australia, and claims Ikea has not registered the trademark "kea" and has no claim over it. Ikea claims Stylkea is infringing its registered trademarks for Ikea and engaging in misleading and deceptive conduct. "I won't be intimidated," Hughes says. "I trust in the process, I trust that IP Australia is fair and just." The matter is awaiting hearing, which could take between three and six months. Protecting the brand A spokesperson for Inter Ikea Systems B.V. says Ikea does not comment on ongoing cases. In general, as the worldwide franchisor and owner of the Ikea concept, it is very important for us to protect the intellectual property rights associated with the Ikea brand," the spokesperson said. Kylie Hughes with one of the Ikea cabinets she has refurbished. Credit:Paul Harris "We feel a great responsibility towards our customers and want to ensure that they can always trust the Ikea brand and know what is really connected to it and what is not. Bill Ladas, partner at law firm King & Wood Mallesons, says the case emphasises the distinction between a business name registration, which doesn't provide any rights, and a registered trademark, which provides exclusive rights. Loading "A later trademark need not be identical to an earlier trademark to be opposed or to infringe if it is deceptively similar that is enough, and that will be down to a consideration of the significance of the aspects that the marks have in common and consumer perceptions of them," he says. "It shows the potential perils of relying on a business name as establishing some form of right when it doesnt and building a business and openly adopting a brand that takes its inspiration from and incorporates part of a well-known brand. The University of Wollongong chancellor, Jillian Broadbent, believes universities' emphasis on vocational degrees has overshadowed the importance of nurturing skills such as critical thinking and reasoned argument. Ms Broadbent said the university's degree in western civilisation, funded by the Ramsay Centre and opposed by many of the university's academics, would produce a critical, agile thinkers who would be able to "apply themselves to anything". Jillian Broadbent, chancellor of the University of Wollongong, believes the Ramsay course will encourage critical thinking. Credit:Nick Moir "The university sector has been under pressure to emphasise the vocational side of education," she said. "That isn't at the expense of critical thinking, but the balance can get out of whack. "The capacity to argue the case and reason is not as developed as it should be. There's a real need for [courses] to be vocationally driven, but it doesn't mean you have to abandon the development of reason and thinking. I think it's going to be good for society, having this developed. Before the latest royal baby was born, a British tabloid speculated that the Duke and Duchess of Sussex would choose to name their first child something "UNUSUAL" that "UNIFIES the US and UK," presumably as a nod to their respective heritages. The Twitter jokes rolled in - "I can't believe they're naming their kid Paddington 2," one film critic tweeted - until Wednesday morning, when Prince Harry and Meghan's announcement confirmed that the name was, in fact, somewhat unusual. K.J. Apa as Archie in Riverdale. Baby boy Sussex is now known as Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor, a mouthful of a moniker short for absolutely nothing. Archie isn't a nickname for Archibald or even Arthur, both of which would have been more predictable choices for a royal (and the latter of which was a favourite among bookies). It is reported to be the nickname of Prince William and the Duchess of Cambridge's oldest son, if we are to believe what Prince George once told a random dog walker, which is bound to create some confusion and/or tension in the family. So, assuming Harry and Meghan didn't just swipe their nephew's pet name, where does the name Archie come from? It doesn't seem to be pulled from Harry's Mountbatten-Windsor lineage, nor from Meghan's immediate family, so allow us to humbly suggest another option: Archie Andrews - who, along with Harry, is one of the most famous redheads, fictional or otherwise, to ever exist. He's the main character of the Archie Comics, created by publisher John L. Goldwater and artist Bob Montana in the 1940s. The comic books centre on high schoolers in the fictional town of Riverdale, where Archie's misadventures include best pal Jughead Jones and love interests Betty Cooper and Veronica Lodge. The stories take place in an idyllic American setting, but their popularity spread worldwide. United Australia Party leader Clive Palmer has been forced to sack a candidate who outed himself as a September 11 conspiracy theorist, claiming the terrorist attacks were the work of "globalist forces", which might include layers of the United States government. Tony Pecora, the UAP candidate for the seat of Melbourne, called for an investigation into the 2001 attacks, which killed almost 3000 people, saying "the whole story doesn't make sense". Tony Pecora, Clive Palmer's candidate in the seat of Melbourne, revealed himself as a 9/11 conspiracy theorist. Credit:United Australia Party Mr Palmer's spokesman, Andrew Crook, confirmed the party had disendorsed Mr Pecora on Thursday evening after being confronted with the candidate's comments, made during an interview with The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age. Mr Pecora invoked the popular "controlled demolition" conspiracy theory arising from the fact World Trade Centre building seven collapsed without being directly hit by an aircraft. A Liberal candidate has resigned after criticising a woman who said her husband had raped her, saying the husband was the "real victim". A spokesman for the Victorian Division of the Liberal Party said Scullin candidate Gurpal Singh was asked to step down after a series of offensive Facebook posts were made public. "Based on new information that has come to light, Mr Gurpal Singh has been asked to resign as the candidate for Scullin. Mr Singh sincerely apologises for his previous comments and has tendered his resignation," the spokesman said. Mr Singh is the seventh Victorian Liberal candidate to be disendorsed by the party this federal election. Mr Singh had previously linked same-sex marriage with paedophilia. Queensland government ads spruiking its support for the mining industry as Labor comes under fire in the regions for being anti-coal do not break any election advertising rules, but experts say they could still backfire. The ads, which appeared last week in regional newspapers that have strong mining communities, such as Rockhampton and Townsville, tout the Palaszczuk governments achievements in the resources sector. "Since 2015 the Queensland government has helped deliver $20 billion in resource projects in regional Queensland, creating over 7000 Queensland jobs," the ads boast. Labor is keen to reassure mining towns it still supports mining, despite distancing itself from Adani. Credit:Dominic Lorrimer It comes on the back of the prolonged saga of the Adani coal mine, proposed for the Galilee Basin but held up by multiple hurdles, most recently concerns over threatened animal species on the mine site. Could Bill Shorten manage the economy? Paul Keating and Bob Hawke wrote a curious piece in the Herald this week arguing that Shorten could handle the task, suggesting that a Shorten government should be regarded as part of "a continuum" of earlier Labor governments like their own. Leaving aside some amnesia about Australias particularly poor performance with regard to recession, unemployment, deficits and debt during their own time, the major logical flaw in the piece stemmed from its provincial viewpoint. In the 1980s and 1990s Hawke and Keating followed and were part of the global economic zeitgeist of countries liberalising practically all sectors of the economy, including labour markets, financial markets, currencies, trade, industries, and consumer areas. The liberalising agenda has had issues, but in the broad it unlocked enormous economic energy across the world. Hawke, Keating and numerous others deserve credit for their role in this global phenomenon. Malcolm Turnbull is set to move into an office at Governor Phillip Tower. Illustration: John Shakespeare Credit: Its been more than two decades since Malcolm Bligh Turnbull strode into Governor Phillip Tower, rode the elevator to the 48th floor and walked through the smoked glass doors to his desk at Goldman Sachs local headquarters. In a few months the former prime minister will once again have an office in the building. He's signed on the dotted line to establish his post-political office at the 1 Farrar Place skyscraper. Hell be trundling his things presumably an almost-complete draft of his political memoirs due to be delivered shortly to publisher Sandy Grant from his temporary digs at 1 Bligh Street. The Liberal Partys bitter feud with its biggest donor is threatening to reignite after Cormack Foundation directors allegedly overruled Liberal luminaries John Howard and Richard Alston to withhold money from the Victorian Liberal Party. Cormack Foundation directors allegedly sidelined board members Mr Howard and former senator Alston in a vote to put a block on donations to the partys Victorian branch after the federal election, while the managers attempt to grow the size of the cash pool. The $70 million Cormack Foundation has topped up their initial $3 million donation for the federal Liberal campaign with an extra $500,000 to boost Scott Morrisons election efforts. This follows the $2.5 million handout in 2018 for former Victorian Liberal leader Matthew Guys unsuccessful state election effort. VANCOUVER, British Columbia, May 09, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Endeavour Silver Corp. (NYSE: EXK; TSX: EDR) announces that at the Companys 2019 Annual General Meeting (AGM) held on May 7, 2019 in Vancouver, shareholders voted in favour of all items of business. A total of 75,258,696 votes were cast or represented by proxy at the AGM, representing 57.24% of the outstanding common shares as of the record date. The following is a tabulation of the votes submitted by proxy: Director Votes for Votes withheld Percent for Percent withheld Margaret M. Beck 28,614,286 535,194 98.16 % 1.84 % Ricardo M. Campoy 28,515,457 634,023 97.82 % 2.18 % Bradford J. Cooke 28,358,245 791,235 97.29 % 2.71 % Geoffrey A. Handley 28,541,892 607,588 97.92 % 2.08 % Rex J. McLennan 28,521,886 627,594 97.85 % 2.15 % Kenneth Pickering 28,580,356 569,124 98.05 % 1.95 % Mario D. Szotlender 27,721,824 1,427,656 95.10 % 4.90 % All director nominees were reelected, other than Margaret M. Beck, who was nominated for election as a director of the Company for the first time. Godfrey Walton, a director of the Company since July 2002, did not seek reelection but will continue to serve as President and Chief Operating Officer of the Company. By a vote by show of hands, shareholders voted 93.71% in favour of reappointing KPMG LLP as auditor of the Company and authorized the Board to fix the auditor's remuneration for the ensuing year. In addition, shareholders also voted 94.18% in favour to amend the Performance Share Unit Plan, as amended by Amendment No. 2. Bradford Cooke, CEO and Director of Endeavour, commented, On behalf of the board of directors, I would like to extend a warm welcome to Margaret Beck as our newest director. Margaret brings a wealth of business and finance experience and skills to the Endeavour board from her 33 years working in the mining sector. Margaret recently retired from her position as BHPs Vice President, Finance Minerals Australia. I would also like to thank my long-time friend and associate, Godfrey Walton, for his 16 years of service as a founding director. Godfrey will continue to lead our operations group as Endeavours President and COO as we transition from optimizing old mines to building new mines. Margaret Beck graduated from the University of Arizona in Tucson in 1985 with a B.Sc. degree in Business Administration and Accounting. She joined BHP Minerals that same year and steadily moved up to more senior positions in the company, working in treasury operations, minerals marketing, financial analysis, mines management, accounting, reporting, forecasting and finance in the USA, Chile, Singapore and Australia. Margaret spent the last 10 years at BHP in executive roles and speaks intermediate Spanish. About Endeavour Endeavour Silver Corp. is a mid-tier precious metals mining company that owns and operates four high-grade, underground, silver-gold mines in Mexico. Endeavour is currently advancing the Terronera mine project towards a development decision and exploring its portfolio of exploration and development projects in Mexico and Chile to facilitate its goal to become a premier senior silver producer. Our philosophy of corporate social integrity creates value for all stakeholders. SOURCE Endeavour Silver Corp. Contact Information - For more information, please contact: Galina Meleger, Director, Investor Relations Toll free: (877) 685-9775 Tel: (604) 640-4804 Fax: (604) 685-9744 Email: gmeleger@edrsilver.com Website: www.edrsilver.com John Howard leads the State Police Ministers to the conference room to discuss gun law reform. Credit:Andrew Meares First published in the Sydney Morning Herald on May 11, 1996 Australia will have its first comprehensive national approach to gun control after the Prime Minister, Mr Howard, last night secured a historic deal with State and Territory police ministers. The agreement, which provides a unified government response to the Port Arthur massacre two weeks ago, will see a sweeping ban on the sale and possession of automatic and semi-automatic weapons. The States will also move swiftly to enact uniform legislation involving: Les Murray will be farewelled today at St Bernadettes Catholic Church, Krambach, just out of Bunyah. It will be his second funeral. More than 20 years ago, Murray suffered an abscess on the liver and was in a coma for three weeks. Coming to, he discovered well-wishers had sent a Spring-in-Winter love-barque of cards, / of flowers and phone calls and letters. Waking to the nations love, which hed never dreamed was there, meant everything to him. He called it his "State Funeral". Now that he really has gone, the accolades have been even more numerous and good willed. Illustration: Simon Letch Credit: To be sure, some commentators have felt the need, in praising Murray, to indicate they were on the other side to him politically. What side would that be? Were they on the other side of Murray when it came to the working poor and marginalised? Were they on the other side to his advocacy, long before it was fashionable, of Indigenous Australians? Were they on the other side when he called out long before anyone else the problem of schoolyard bullying and its reverberations through the culture? Nothing a mob does is clean, Murray believed. That was the main thrust of his politics. Like the eponymous hero of his remarkable 1998 verse novel, Fredy Neptune, Murray would often step in to protect individuals from a mob, even if he disagreed with them. In an era of "Safe Schools" programs, this is a lesson that should be part of the curriculum, and there is no better way to teach it than through the work of our greatest poet. But there are, of course, many good reasons to encourage the young to read Murray. Indeed, there is an obligation on our schools and universities to do just that. The NSW government has set itself up for another cost-shifting fight after signalling local councils across the state will need to help fund a hike to the levy that pays for emergency services. Councils have warned they will be forced to cut services to fund the local government sector's share of the increased levy, while insurers say the additional costs will be passed on to policy holders. Under the changes, councils will pay an 11.7 per cent share of the levy to help fund reforms to workers compensation for volunteer and career firefighters suffering from work-related cancers. Local councils will help fund reforms to workers compensation for volunteer and career firefighters suffering from work-related cancers. Credit:AAP The Office of Local Government said on Wednesday that the increase would be included in the yearly emergency services levy that councils pay from July 1. The amounts will vary between council areas. An allegedly illegitimate home day-care business in south-west Sydney created false time sheets and rostering, mock-up childrens play areas and advertised with photographs of children who were never in care as part of an elaborate syndicate designed to defraud the federal government childcare subsidy scheme in an amount of at least $4 million over eight months. A major joint agency investigation of more than 300 specialist investigators dismantled the syndicate on Wednesday when they descended on more than 20 properties in suburbs such as Georges Hall, Greenacre and Fairfield, and arrested 18 people. Investigators have said those arrested on Wednesday were just the "tip of the iceberg", and that more than 150 parents, who each had three to seven children, could be next in line for allegedly offering their children's identities to keep the syndicate in operation. It is believed there are a number of similar syndicates operating around Sydney that are yet to be targeted, some running operations with log books of children who have never existed. Journalist Hedley Thomas, who presented a podcast examining the disappearance of Sydney woman Lynette Dawson, could be called to give evidence in preliminary court proceedings after the missing woman's then-husband was charged with her murder. Chris Dawson, 70, was arrested on the Gold Coast last year. He was extradited to NSW and charged with murdering his wife, who was last seen in January 1982, aged 33. Her body has not been found. Chris Dawson leaves Downing Centre Local Court on Thursday. Credit:AAP On Thursday, when the matter was mentioned at Downing Centre Local Court, Mr Dawson's lawyer Greg Walsh said Mr Thomas who presented The Teacher's Pet podcast with The Australian newspaper had not disclosed all material relevant to the case and may have "shredded" some of it. Mr Walsh pointed to a comment made by Mr Thomas at an event in Brisbane last year, in which he responded to a question from the audience by saying some podcast material "needs to be shredded, you'll go to jail if it airs". The Productivity Commission will do a study on local councils to provide state governments with a clearer picture of local governments' financial capacities and the sources of revenue available to them. "The study will examine the capacity of different types of councils to raise revenue, the impact of the various revenue sources available to local government, and the regulatory environment surrounding local governments revenue raising capacity," Treasurer Peter Costello said in a statement. The Productivity Commission is required to provide a final report within 12 months. Professor Cliff Walsh has been appointed to the Productivity Commission as an associate commissioner for this study. Professor Walsh has a long history of involvement in the development, implementation and evaluation of public policy at Commonwealth, state and local government level," Mr Costello said. He died in November 2014, a day after being transferred from the Toowoomba watch house to Brisbane Correctional Centre. The 48-year-old man, who died in May 2015, had a long criminal history and lengthy mental health history in prison, including a diagnosis of schizophrenia. Loading When taken back to prison shortly before his death on a six-week sentence, he wrote to his partner speaking positively about their future and planned marriage. He had been returned to prison due driving offences while on parole, transferred from the Ipswich watch house. The next morning, the man asked a corrections officer if he could return to his cell to rest. Another prisoner later heard someone calling out for help, and raised the alarm after going to the 48-year-old man's cell. The man was declared dead after Queensland Ambulance Service paramedics attended. The coroner found that in the cases of both men, there had been multiple failures of communication between Queensland Police and Queensland Corrective Services about their mental states. He also noted lapses in communication between Queensland Health and Queensland Corrective services. Information sharing between QCS and Queensland Health regularly arises as an issue in inquests relating to deaths in custody, Mr Ryan said. Both men had indicated previous suicidal thoughts in the years prior, and that information was listed in their prison and medical records. During his two days at Toowoomba watch house in 2014, the 54-year-old man was given a mental health assessment, with the trained mental health nurse assessing him as having an elevated, but not acute, risk of suicide. He was placed under observation at intervals of 30 minutes by Queensland Police. However, an information file about his mental health that should have been transferred with him from the watch house to the prison was apparently not given to the Queensland Corrective Service. A nurse who assessed him on arrival to prison did not have his full medical information, and the man's behaviour and mood were assessed as normal. A psychologist later assessed his mental health but, despite her noting a discrepancy between what he told her and what his mental health records noted, he was not placed under observation or flagged as at risk. She told the coroner she did not know he was under 30-minute observations at the Toowoomba watch house and did not have access to all of his medical records. The psychologist referred him to the prisoner mental health service to be seen the next week, but the man died the next night. 2015 death in custody The 48-year-old man who died in 2015 was also assessed as low risk for suicide by the Brisbane Correctional Centre psychologist, and the coroner found initial assessments of his mental health were adequate. However, the coroner found that as his mental health deteriorated in the days after his admittance to prison, there was a failure to recognise and respond to the significant deterioration in [the man's] mental health and the associated escalation in his suicide risk. Mr Ryan noted that since the deaths in 2014 and 2015, there had been many changes in how Queensland Corrective Services and Queensland Police managed mental health for people in custody. He also noted the opening of Queenslands Drug and Alcohol Court in early 2018, which he said would have benefited the 54-year-old man in particular. In December 2012, Queensland Corrective Services requested a software update to immediately flag prisoners who were at risk of self-harm, so all front-line staff could see the alerts. In February 2017, that request was still outstanding but was noted as a "priority". Coroner recommendations The coroner made multiple recommendations about the management of mental health risks in Queensland prisons. I recommend that Queensland Corrective Services develops a policy in relation to the management of the risks associated with the provision of [toiletries that could be used for self-harm] to prisoners within the first month of entry to prison, Mr Ryan said. Particularly where a prisoner has recently expressed suicidal ideation or has recently been discharged from a hospital emergency department following an Emergency Examination Authority. Mr Ryan also recommended QCS work with Queensland Health to review its suicide risk assessment procedures and responses, and report their findings to the Queensland Mental Health Commission to improve their responses to people with both mental health and substance abuse issues in prisons. How well do you think your partner knows what you do for a living? Now what if youre a quantum physicist? A public event in Brisbane on Thursday night will try to use that question to highlight the importance of science communication, by pitting four local scientists against their partners. Event organiser and physicist Dr Andrew Stephenson said For the Love of Science aimed to be a fun way at looking at a serious issue. An event in Brisbane on Thursday will test how well scientists are communicating with their partners. Credit:. Were becoming less scientifically literate as a society and I think scientists expertise is being trusted less and less, Dr Stephenson said. Michael Makridis, 53, who runs the Melbourne chapter of safety patrol group Guardian Angels. Credit:Luis Enrique Ascui Standing outside Preston train station in Melbourne's north, Michael Makridis is wearing a distinctive red beret and emblazoned white T-shirt as he surveys the area for signs of trouble. It's a far cry from the New York City subway of the 1980s. But the two scenes, though many miles and decades apart, have more in common than they appear. Mr Makridis, a local garbage truck driver and Wing Chun Kung Fu fighter, is the recent creator and new leader of the Melbourne chapter of "safety patrol" group the Guardian Angels. Founded by Curtis Sliwa on the streets of New York in 1979, the organisation began with a small group of volunteers in red berets and bomber jackets patrolling the subway with the aim to "fill the void of crime-fighting" during a particularly turbulent time for the city. One of Western Australia's premier luxury businesses, Rosendorff Diamond Jewellers, has been placed into receivership. A massive liquidation sale of more than $9 million worth of diamonds and fine jewellery will begin on Friday. More than 110,000 Western Australian couples have celebrated a special occasion featuring a piece of Rosendorff's fine jewellery. An announcement to the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) said a meeting of creditors was set to get under way at 11am Thursday. Net Income of $1.3 billion or $0.58 per share FFO of $1.1 billion or $1.04 per share BROOKFIELD, News, May 09, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Brookfield Asset Management Inc. (NYSE: BAM, TSX: BAM.A, Euronext: BAMA) today announced financial results for the quarter ended March 31, 2019. Bruce Flatt, CEO of Brookfield, stated, We have had a strong start to 2019. In addition to announcing our agreement to acquire 62% of Oaktree Capital Management, our other businesses were active in committing or closing on a number of new transactions and progressing those previously announced. With $36 billion of group liquidity, we continue to seek opportunities to deploy further capital throughout the rest of 2019. Operating Results Unaudited For the periods ended March 31 (US$ millions, except per share amounts) Three Months Ended Last Twelve Months Ended 2019 2018 2019 2018 Net income1 $ 1,256 $ 1,855 $ 6,889 $ 5,888 Per Brookfield share2 0.58 0.84 3.18 2.26 Funds from operations2,3 $ 1,051 $ 1,170 $ 4,282 $ 4,306 Per Brookfield share2,3 1.04 1.16 4.23 4.25 1. Consolidated basis includes amounts attributable to non-controlling interests. 2. Excludes amounts attributable to non-controlling interests. 3. See Basis of Presentation on page 8 and a reconciliation of net income to FFO on page 5. Net income was $6.9 billion for the last twelve months and $1.3 billion for the quarter. The increase in the last twelve months reflects contributions from investments closed across all of our businesses as well as growth from our existing businesses. The prior year quarter included a higher level of one-time transaction and appraisal gains. Funds from operations (FFO) were $4.3 billion for the last twelve months and $1.1 billion for the quarter. FFO in the quarter, excluding performance fees and dispositions gains, increased 27% as a result of higher asset management earnings, including increases in both fee related earnings (FRE) and realized carried interest, and increased FFO from our invested capital. FRE before performance fees for the quarter increased by 19% due to higher levels of private fund fee bearing capital as a result of flagship funds raised in the last twelve months, and due to higher listed partnership capitalization resulting from unit price appreciation across each of the listed partnerships. FRE in the prior year quarter included $143 million of performance fees. FFO from invested capital, before performance fees, increased 17% in the current quarter due to contributions from a number of new investments across our business and the performance of our financial asset portfolio, which recovered from the market volatility experienced in late 2018. Dividend Declaration The Board declared a quarterly dividend of US$0.16 per share (representing US$0.64 per annum), payable on June 28, 2019 to shareholders of record as at the close of business on May 31, 2019. The Board also declared the regular monthly and quarterly dividends on its preferred shares. Operating Highlights Fundraising remains strong with the final close of our $15 billion flagship real estate fund and a further nine funds currently in the market. We continued to progress our current round of flagship fundraising. To date, we have closed our latest real estate opportunity fund at $15 billion, completed the close of an initial $7.4 billion in our private equity fund, and in May we expect to close $14 billion of initial commitments to our most recent infrastructure fund. In total, this will be $39 billion of fund capital, including co-investment capital, in this round of flagship fundraising so far. Annualized fees and target carried interest now stand at a run-rate of $3.1 billion, up 26% from March 2018. Our growth continues to lead to an increased level of base fee revenues and furthers the opportunity to generate performance income for listed partnerships and carried interest from private funds. Annualized fee revenues increased to $1.7 billion, or $990 million after costs, attributable to fees from new funds raised and growth in our listed partnership capitalization. Target carried interest increased 39% to $1.5 billion, or $1.0 billion after costs, as a result of the fundraising activity. This growth excludes capital that closed subsequent to March 31, 2019. Over the last twelve months, we generated carried interest before costs of $632 million and recognized $349 million of realized carried interest into income in the same period. During the first quarter of 2019 we recorded $119 million of realized carry, primarily from one of our global flagship real estate funds. As we are currently progressing a number of asset realizations in this fund, we expect significant further carry in 2019 and 2020. Brookfield group liquidity remains strong at $36 billion. We currently generate $2 billion of annualized cash available for distribution and/or reinvestment to our corporate balance sheet, excluding carried interest, and expect this to continue to increase. Cash available for distribution and/or reinvestment provides insight into the free cash flow generated by our business. Our asset management franchise currently generates approximately $1 billion of cash, before carried interest, and is growing rapidly. In addition, growth in the FFO of our partnerships in turn supports $1.6 billion in annual distributions to BAM, as an investor in these businesses. This cash flow supplements our liquidity, which currently stands at $36.3 billion, and is used to fund transactions, seed new fund products or participate in equity issuances by our listed partnerships. During the quarter, we announced an agreement to acquire 62% of Oaktree Capital Management for $4.8 billion. The purchase of 62% of Oaktree includes our share of its asset management franchise, cash, investments in its funds and a 20% interest in DoubleLine. This acquisition will be funded by approximately $2.4 billion of cash and 53 million Class A Shares of Brookfield. The cash component of the transaction price will be funded with available liquidity. Following the close of the transaction, the balance of 38% of the company will continue to be owned by the management group, which will remain with Oaktree and run the business. Their management team have built a first-class asset management business with a primary focus on credit and particular prominence in distressed debt. We are thrilled to partner with them to own this business. The transaction, first announced on March 13, 2019, is progressing as planned and is expected to close in the third quarter of 2019. CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS Unaudited (US$ millions) March 31 December 31 2019 2018 Assets Cash and cash equivalents $ 6,740 $ 8,390 Other financial assets 7,004 6,227 Accounts receivable and other 16,554 16,931 Inventory 7,219 6,989 Assets classified as held for sale 4,025 2,185 Equity accounted investments 34,373 33,647 Investment properties 85,006 84,309 Property, plant and equipment 72,902 67,294 Intangible assets 18,720 18,762 Goodwill 8,929 8,815 Deferred income tax assets 2,753 2,732 Total Assets $ 264,225 $ 256,281 Liabilities and Equity Corporate borrowings $ 7,459 $ 6,409 Accounts payable and other 27,928 23,989 Liabilities associated with assets classified as held for sale 2,272 812 Non-recourse borrowings of managed entities 111,550 111,809 Deferred income tax liabilities 12,511 12,236 Subsidiary equity obligations 3,941 3,876 Equity Preferred equity 4,149 4,168 Non-controlling interests in net assets 68,021 67,335 Common equity 26,394 25,647 Total Equity 98,564 97,150 Total Liabilities and Equity $ 264,225 $ 256,281 CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS Unaudited For the three months ended March 31 (US$ millions, except per share amounts) 2019 2018 Revenues $ 15,208 $ 12,631 Direct costs (11,585 ) (10,091 ) Other income and gains 32 342 Equity accounted income 344 288 Expenses Interest (1,616 ) (1,037 ) Corporate costs (26 ) (27 ) Fair value changes 169 572 Depreciation and amortization (1,034 ) (670 ) Income tax (236 ) (153 ) Net income $ 1,256 $ 1,855 Net income attributable to: Brookfield shareholders $ 615 $ 857 Non-controlling interests 641 998 $ 1,256 $ 1,855 Net income per share Diluted $ 0.58 $ 0.84 Basic 0.59 0.85 SUMMARIZED FINANCIAL RESULTS RECONCILIATION OF NET INCOME TO FUNDS FROM OPERATIONS Unaudited For the periods ended March 31 (US$ millions) Three Months Ended Last Twelve Months Ended 2019 2018 2019 2018 Net income $ 1,256 $ 1,855 $ 6,889 $ 5,888 Realized disposition gains in fair value changes or prior periods 232 420 1,257 1,384 Non-controlling interests (1,602 ) (1,462 ) (6,155 ) (5,497 ) Financial statement components not included in FFO Equity accounted fair value changes and other non-FFO items 251 333 1,202 1,067 Fair value changes (169 ) (572 ) (1,391 ) (1,197 ) Depreciation and amortization 1,034 670 3,466 2,516 Deferred income taxes 49 (74 ) (986 ) 145 Funds from operations1,2 $ 1,051 $ 1,170 $ 4,282 $ 4,306 SEGMENT FUNDS FROM OPERATIONS Unaudited For the periods ended March 31 (US$ millions, except per share amounts) Three Months Ended Last Twelve Months Ended 2019 2018 2019 2018 Asset management $ 323 $ 363 $ 1,277 $ 1,167 Real estate 250 439 1,597 2,118 Renewable power 154 100 382 303 Infrastructure 194 341 455 603 Private equity 175 54 916 285 Residential (22 ) (33 ) 60 9 Corporate (23 ) (94 ) (405 ) (179 ) Funds from operations1,2 $ 1,051 $ 1,170 $ 4,282 $ 4,306 Per share3 $ 1.04 $ 1.16 $ 4.23 $ 4.25 Non-IFRS measure see Basis of Presentation on page 8. Excludes amounts attributable to non-controlling interests. Per share amounts are inclusive of dilutive effect of mandatorily redeemable preferred shares held in a consolidated subsidiary. EARNINGS PER SHARE Unaudited For the periods ended March 31 (US$ millions, except per share amounts) Three Months Ended Last Twelve Months Ended 2019 2018 2019 2018 Net income $ 1,256 $ 1,855 $ 6,889 $ 5,888 Non-controlling interests (641 ) (998 ) (3,547 ) (3,532 ) Net income attributable to shareholders 615 857 3,342 2,356 Preferred share dividends (37 ) (38 ) (150 ) (147 ) Dilutive effect of conversion of subsidiary preferred shares (13 ) (85 ) Net income available to common shareholders $ 565 $ 819 $ 3,107 $ 2,209 Weighted average shares 955.3 957.9 956.9 958.6 Dilutive effect of the conversion of options and escrowed shares using treasury stock method1 19.7 19.1 18.9 19.5 Shares and share equivalents 975.0 977.0 975.8 978.1 Diluted earnings per share2 $ 0.58 $ 0.84 $ 3.18 $ 2.26 Includes management share option plan and escrowed stock plan. Per share amounts are inclusive of dilutive effect of mandatorily redeemable preferred shares held in a consolidated subsidiary. CASH AVAILABLE FOR DISTRIBUTION AND/OR REINVESTMENT Unaudited For the periods ended March 31 (US$ millions) Three Months Ended Last Twelve Months Ended 2019 2018 2019 2018 Fee related earnings3 $ 238 $ 343 $ 1,024 $ 1,076 Distributions from investments 383 390 1,691 1,425 Other invested capital earnings Corporate interest expense (87 ) (78 ) (332 ) (277 ) Corporate costs and taxes (37 ) (37 ) (163 ) (63 ) Other wholly owned investments (39 ) (38 ) 40 25 (163 ) (153 ) (455 ) (315 ) Preferred share dividends (37 ) (38 ) (150 ) (147 ) Cash available for distribution and/or reinvestment before realized carried interest 421 542 2,110 2,039 Realized carried interest, net3 85 20 253 91 Cash available for distribution and/or reinvestment $ 506 $ 562 $ 2,363 $ 2,130 3. Non-IFRS measure see Basis of Presentation on page 8. Additional Information The Letter to Shareholders and the companys Supplemental Information for the three months ended March 31, 2019 contain further information on the companys strategy, operations and financial results. Shareholders are encouraged to read these documents, which are available on the companys website. The statements contained herein are based primarily on information that has been extracted from our financial statements for the quarter ended March 31, 2019, which have been prepared using IFRS, as issued by the IASB. The amounts have not been audited by Brookfields external auditor. Brookfields Board of Directors have reviewed and approved this document, including the summarized unaudited consolidated financial statements prior to its release. Information on our dividends can be found on our website under Stock & Distributions/Distribution History. Quarterly Earnings Call Details Investors, analysts and other interested parties can access Brookfield Asset Managements 2019 First Quarter Results as well as the Shareholders Letter and Supplemental Information on Brookfields website under the Reports & Filings section at www.brookfield.com . To participate in the Conference Call, please dial 1-866-688-9425 toll free in North America, or for overseas calls please dial 1-409-216-0815 (Conference ID: 9873059) at approximately 10:50 a.m. The Conference Call will also be Webcast live at www.brookfield.com under Brookfield Asset Management/Events and Presentations. For those unable to participate in the Conference Call, the telephone replay will be archived and available until midnight May 16, 2019. To access this rebroadcast, please call 1-855-859-2056 or 1-404-537-3406 (Conference ID: 9873059). Brookfield Asset Management Inc. is a leading global alternative asset manager with over $365 billion in assets under management. The company has a 120-year history of owning and operating assets with a focus on real estate, renewable power, infrastructure and private equity. Brookfield offers a range of public and private investment products and services, and is co-listed on the New York, Toronto and Euronext stock exchanges under the symbol BAM, BAM.A and BAMA, respectively. For more information, please visit our website at www.brookfield.com . Please note that Brookfields previous audited annual and unaudited quarterly reports have been filed on EDGAR and SEDAR and can also be found in the investor section of its website at www.brookfield.com . Hard copies of the annual and quarterly reports can be obtained free of charge upon request. For more information, please visit our website at www.brookfield.com or contact: Communications & Media: Claire Holland Vice President, Branding & Communications Tel: (416) 369-8236 Email: claire.holland@brookfield.com Investor Relations Linda Northwood Director, Investor Relations Tel: (416) 359-8647 Email: linda.northwood@brookfield.com Basis of Presentation This news release and accompanying financial statements are based on International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB), unless otherwise noted. We make reference to Funds from Operations (FFO). We define FFO as net income attributable to shareholders prior to fair value changes, depreciation and amortization, and deferred income taxes, and include realized disposition gains that are not recorded in net income as determined under IFRS. FFO also includes the companys share of equity accounted investments FFO on a fully diluted basis. FFO consists of the following components: FFO from Operating Activities represents the companys share of revenues less direct costs and interest expenses; excludes realized carried interest and disposition gains, fair value changes, depreciation and amortization and deferred income taxes; and includes our proportionate share of FFO from operating activities recorded by equity accounted investments on a fully diluted basis. We present this measure as we believe it assists in describing our results and variances within FFO. Realized Carried Interest represents our contractual share of investment gains generated within a private fund after considering our clients minimum return requirements. Realized carried interest is determined on third-party capital that is no longer subject to future investment performance. Realized Disposition Gains are included in FFO because we consider the purchase and sale of assets to be a normal part of the companys business. Realized disposition gains include gains and losses recorded in net income and equity in the current period, and are adjusted to include fair value changes and revaluation surplus balances recorded in prior periods which were not included in prior period FFO. We use FFO to assess our operating results and the value of Brookfields business and believe that many shareholders and analysts also find this measure of value to them. We note that FFO, its components, and its per share equivalent are non-IFRS measures which do not have any standard meaning prescribed by IFRS and therefore may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers and entities. We make reference to Invested Capital. Invested Capital is defined as the amount of common equity in our segments and underlying businesses within the segments. We make reference to Generated or Unrealized Carried Interest, which represents our share of fund profits if all of our funds were wound up and liquidated at period end values. We use this measure to gain additional insight into how investment performance is impacting our ability to earn carried interest in the future. We make reference to cash flows before common share dividends that is Available for distribution or reinvestment. It is the sum of our Asset Management segment FFO and distributions received from our ownership of investments, net of Corporate activities FFO and preferred share dividends. This provides insight into earnings received by the corporation that are available for distribution to common shareholders or to be reinvested into the business. We provide additional information on key terms and non-IFRS measures in our filings available at www.brookfield.com . Notice to Readers This news release contains forward-looking information within the meaning of Canadian provincial securities laws and forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended, Section 21E of the U.S. Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, safe harbor provisions of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and in any applicable Canadian securities regulations. Forward-looking statements include statements that are predictive in nature, depend upon or refer to future events or conditions, include statements regarding the operations, business, financial condition, expected financial results, performance, prospects, opportunities, priorities, targets, goals, ongoing objectives, strategies and outlook of Brookfield and its subsidiaries, as well as the outlook for North American and international economies for the current fiscal year and subsequent periods, and include words such as expects, anticipates, plans, believes, estimates, seeks, intends, targets, projects, forecasts or negative versions thereof and other similar expressions, or future or conditional verbs such as may, will, should, would and could. Where this press release refers to target carried interest it is based on an assumption that existing funds meet their target gross returns. Target gross returns are typically ~20% for opportunistic funds; 10% to 15% for value add, credit and core funds. Fee terms vary by investment strategy and may change over time. Although we believe that our anticipated future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements and information are based upon reasonable assumptions and expectations, the reader should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and information because they involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, many of which are beyond our control, which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of Brookfield to differ materially from anticipated future results, performance or achievement expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements and information. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contemplated or implied by forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to: investment returns that are lower than target; the impact or unanticipated impact of general economic, political and market factors in the countries in which we do business; the behavior of financial markets, including fluctuations in interest and foreign exchange rates; global equity and capital markets and the availability of equity and debt financing and refinancing within these markets; strategic actions including dispositions; the ability to complete and effectively integrate acquisitions into existing operations and the ability to attain expected benefits; changes in accounting policies and methods used to report financial condition (including uncertainties associated with critical accounting assumptions and estimates); the ability to appropriately manage human capital; the effect of applying future accounting changes; business competition; operational and reputational risks; technological change; changes in government regulation and legislation within the countries in which we operate; governmental investigations; litigation; changes in tax laws; ability to collect amounts owed; catastrophic events, such as earthquakes and hurricanes; the possible impact of international conflicts and other developments including terrorist acts and cyber terrorism; and other risks and factors detailed from time to time in our documents filed with the securities regulators in Canada and the United States. Due to various risks, uncertainties and changes (including changes in economic, operational, political or other circumstances) beyond Brookfields control, the actual performance of the funds could differ materially from the target returns set forth herein. In addition, industry experts may disagree with the assumptions used in presenting the target returns. No assurance, representation or warranty is made by any person that the target returns will be achieved, and undue reliance should not be put on them. We caution that the foregoing list of important factors that may affect future results is not exhaustive. When relying on our forward-looking statements, investors and others should carefully consider the foregoing factors and other uncertainties and potential events. Except as required by law, Brookfield undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements or information, whether written or oral, that may be as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. This news release does not constitute an offer or solicitation to buy or sell any Brookfield securities, products, or services. A Liberal volunteer supporting Tony Abbott's campaign for re-election in Warringah has denied he dressed up in a chicken suit in an attempt to derail the rival campaign of independent Zali Steggall. The high-stakes battle for Warringah already involves two "satirical superheroes": Captain GetUp and more recently Freddie Foreign Money. But in recent weeks a new costumed political super-hero has been seen around the electorate: Chicken Man. Chicken Man is a person (of indeterminate gender) dressed up in a yellow chicken costume, who keeps showing up at Ms Steggall's media appearances. Foreign Minister Marise Payne has shot down a controversial remark by a senior American official and former Trump campaign staffer that the United States rivalry with China amounts to a "clash of civilisations". Kiron Skinner, the head of policy planning at the US State Department, made a headline-grabbing assessment last week of China as a long-term threat to the US in part because it was so culturally different that American foreign affairs officials struggled to understand it. Foreign Minister Marise Payne distanced Australia from Dr Skinners assessment. Credit:Jamila Toderas When asked at a think tank in Washington whether it amounted to a "clash of civilisations" - the 1990s theory that post-Cold War conflict would be driven by differences in culture rather than economics or ideology - Dr Skinner partly agreed it did. "The United States hasnt had that before," she said. "Its ... striking that its the first time that we will have a great power competitor that is not Caucasian." Dar Es Salaam: The Tanzanian government has faced a backlash over its plan to put a cable car on Mount Kilimanjaro, Africas tallest mountain. Tanzania, which is in talks about the project with a Chinese and a Western company, says a cable car could boost the number of tourists who visit the site by 50 per cent. About 50,000 tourists climb Kilimanjaro annually. Porter and guide groups who take tourists up the mountain oppose the project because they fear cable cars will reduce the number of climbers. Three giraffe in front of Mount Kilimanjaro. Credit:Shutterstock Loishiye Mollel, head of Tanzania Porters' Organisation, said visitors normally spend a week climbing the mountain. New York: Imagine an animal that looks like a dinosaur, and you probably will not imagine a bat. But that may change. A team of paleontologists in China announced on Wednesday the discovery of a dinosaur that sported the same kinds of fleshy wings bats use to flit through the air. The dinosaur, Ambopteryx longibrachium, lived about 163 million years ago. When Min Wang, a vertebratepaleontologist at the Chinese Academy of Sciences, first saw the fossil, which he and his team pulled out of Jurassic-age rocks in Liaoning province in China, "I thought it was a bird," he said. A reconstruction of Ambopteryx longibrachium. Credit:PA Birds evolved from dinosaurs, and so the two groups share many features. Wang assumed Ambopteryx was a bird because the animal sported relatively long forelimbs, just as modern birds do. But as his team carefully chipped away the rock surrounding the fossil over the course of about a year, distinctly dinosaurian features began to emerge. Ambopteryx, for one thing, had long fingers, a trait that birds lack. Wang's team was also surprised to find the remains of soft tissue around the dinosaur's arms and torso. This tissue, in life, formed flaps of skin that probably resembled batlike wings, Wang said. Washington: Donald Trump's secretary of state suggested Margaret Thatcher would never have given Huawei access to British 5G networks as US-UK policy differences were laid bare during his first official UK visit. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo speaks during a joint press conference with Britain's Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt at the Foreign Office in central London. Credit:AP Mike Pompeo warned that America would only share information on "trusted networks" as he hinted at the potential knock-on effects for intelligence sharing if Theresa May decided to give the Chinese technology company restricted access to British 5G. The Trump administration has been lobbying European countries against allowing Huawei access into 5G networks, fearing China would have unrestricted access to the company's data streams. It has created tensions with Britain, a partner in the Five Eyes intelligence-sharing pact, as May has privately backed giving Huawei restricted access to the network, as disclosed by The Telegraph. That leak led to the dismissal of Gavin Williamson as defence secretary. Vatican City: Pope Francis issued a groundbreaking new church law on Thursday requiring all Catholic priests and nuns around the world to report clergy sexual abuse and cover-ups by their superiors to church authorities, in a new effort to hold the Catholic hierarchy accountable for failing to protect their flocks. Pope Francis speaks during a meeting with the dioceses of Rome, at the Vatican Basilica of St. John Lateran, in Rome. Credit:AP The law provides whistleblower protections for anyone making a report and requires all dioceses to have a system in place to receive the claims confidentially. And it outlines internal procedures for conducting preliminary investigations when the accused is a bishop, cardinal or religious superior. Abuse victims and their advocates said the law was a step forward, but not enough since it doesn't require the crimes to be reported to police and essentially tasks discredited bishops who have mishandled abuse for decades with policing their own. It's the latest effort by Francis to respond to the global sex abuse and cover- up scandal that has devastated the credibility of the Catholic hierarchy and his own papacy. And it provides a new legal framework for US bishops as they prepare to adopt accountability measures next month to respond to the scandal there. London: No one spelt out Europe's predicament over the escalating stand-off between the US and Iran quite as bluntly as Russia. It's up to "the Europeans, who committed to find a solution to the problem created by the Americans, to fulfill their promise,'' said Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, during a joint news conference in Moscow with his Iranian opposite, Mohammad Zarif. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, right, and Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif during their meeting on Wednesday. Credit:AP That won't be easy, because after a year of casting around for ways to enable companies to safely circumvent US sanctions to trade with and invest in Iran, Europe has come up empty. That is unlikely to change in the next 60 days, in which case the 2015 nuclear deal with Iran could be heading for a slow death. Europe has once again found itself squeezed between hostile governments in Washington and Tehran, when President Hassan Rouhani threatened to abandon some of the limits to its controversial nuclear fuel program that Iran agreed to in 2015 in exchange for the lifting of international sanctions. Washington: A federal grand jury charged a Chinese national in a 2015 hacking campaign that affected large US businesses including insurer Anthem, where the breach affected a computer system containing data on up to 80 million people, according to an indictment unsealed on Thursday. Anthem logo hangs at the health insurer's corporate headquarters in Indianapolis. Anthem Inc. Credit:AP Fujie Wang, 32, and others including one individual charged as John Doe, conducted intrusions into Anthem and three other American businesses, according to the four count indictment in federal court in Indianapolis, where Anthem is based. It did not identify the other companies by name. The hackers used sophisticated techniques to hack into the businesses' computer systems and installed malware, then identified information of interest including personally identifiable information (PII) and business information. The allegations in the indictment unsealed today outline the activities of a brazen China-based computer hacking group that committed one of the worst data breaches in history, said Assistant Attorney General Brian Benczkowski. Caracas: Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Guaido said on Wednesday that intelligence agents had detained his deputy, the first arrest of a lawmaker since Guaido tried to spark a military uprising last week to bring down President Nicolas Maduro's government. Edgar Zambrano, vice-president of the opposition-controlled National Assembly, which Guaido heads, said on Twitter that agents from the SEBIN intelligence agency were using a tow truck to drag his vehicle, with him inside, to one of their Caracas bases. Opposition Deputy of the National Assembly Stalin Gonzalez talks to journalists after National Assembly vice-president Edgar Zambrano was arrested when leaving the headquarters. Credit:AP On Tuesday, Venezuela's pro-Maduro Constituent Assembly ruled to strip Zambrano, and six other lawmakers, of their parliamentary immunity to allow their future prosecution. The Supreme Court had earlier accused the lawmakers of conspiracy, rebellion and treason, and on Wednesday accused three other opposition legislators of the same crimes. The opposition says Maduro has stacked the court with his own supporters, and the US government this week threatened to sanction all its members. ~I am not even surviving as I do not even have food in the house, while the government spent thousands on carnival and artists . ~ PHILIPSBURG: --- The cries of an elderly woman living in Cape Bay has gone on deaf ears while Government continues with its bureaucracy. Iris Van Putten a 70-year-old woman who recently did a knee surgery in Curacao is living in deplorable conditions in her Cape Bay home. The woman said that her home was destroyed by hurricane Irma and Maria and she lost everything she owned prior to the catastrophic hurricanes. Mrs. Van Putten said after the passage of Irma on September 6TH, 2017 she had to seek shelter at her brothers home, she explained that about 4 months after she managed to move back in a partly damaged room at the back of her home while her daughters and grandchildren that were living in the family home sought shelter elsewhere. She said she sought assistance from Government to repair her home, but Government only showed up a year after the passage of Irma to assist her. Mrs. Van Putten said she got some building materials from some Americans that were on the island giving out assistance. I got the zinc, T-1-11 from these Americans and then Senior Citizen Foundation assisted by sending some workers to replace the roof. The woman said that she even used up the money she had saved up to complete the roof since the materials she had was not enough to complete the roof and to re-enforce the home with new columns. Mrs. Van Putten said that she contacted the Department of VROMI and was dealing with Kurt Ruan who visited her home and he was willing to provide the assistance to finish the home but Ruan was stopped by Keith Franca who manages the St. Maarten Development Fund. She said Franca stopped Ruan who was trying to help her through the UNDP funds. Franca told Ruan that they were conducting a bidding process on the home to find the right contractors to complete the home. However, Franca later told her the funds he was working with expired and that they could not complete the home. They did some work up to early this year, but the home is far from complete and it is not livable. Franca told me to seek assistance from Government which I did to no avail. I went to the Department of Social Affairs I tried to meet with Minister Emil Lee to seek assistance and all he did was to have his workers give me a form to fill up. Now Government is saying they cant provide any assistance because the property is not registered in my name. The woman said she was married for 35 years to her now deceased husband and the home she lived in was purchased by her and her husband, she further explained that she lost all documentation during the passage of hurricane Irma and now Government is saying that I must pay a notary and make publication of the property in the local newspapers in order for it to be registered before they could grant her any assistance. The tearful woman said she is thankful for the assistance she received thus far but she also said that she cannot continue to live the way she is living now she is sleeping on a bed with her 20-year-old son. The room she current occupies has a leaky roof while it floods out during the rainy season. I cant even feed myself with the pension money I get monthly when I am done paying bills I have nothing left for food. She said her church helped but they also must help others. Only about 3 months ago the woman said she got back electricity and the wiring done on the house is not even safe. Government said they do not have money to do it correctly. I do not have a proper lavatory, everything in those washrooms are broken. My mother had to put a bucket by the door at nights to use because she could not walk in a dark house on crutches the bathroom at nights. Her daughter who is the mother of 3 minor children said she is working for minimum wage for a placement agency and she could hardly make ends meet. I rented a one bedroom apartment and by the time I am done paying rent and bills I can hardly feed my children I do not have a cent that I can help my mother with, many days I have to watch my elderly mother go hungry and live in deplorable conditions. My mother is ill she recently had a surgery and she was walking around in an incomplete house on crutches. I do not know what is going to happen when my job contract ends but I need to let everyone know that minimum wage saw its last increase 15 years ago and while government is saying they do not have money to help the elderly with finishing up their homes they had thousands of dollars to spend on carnival and to pay hundreds of thousands to bring in artists for the shows. Besides the deplorable conditions inside the house with unfinished rooms and bathrooms, there is septic water running in front of the house caused by a next-door neighbor. Venezuelans and Dominicans. The woman and her daughter said that besides their own living conditions and stress, there are about 10 to 12 Venezuelans and Dominicans living in one room next door. She said due to the number of persons in dwelling there is constant sewage water running in front of their house which they already brought to the attention of Government, but nothing was done. My mother is elderly and she has to put up with sewage water and noise when those people over there begin to drink and party. Iris Van Putten said she has absolutely nothing against the foreign nationals living next door because when she did not have electricity, she was able to rest knowing there were people next door despite their own conditions. It is by the grace of God I am surviving, and I know those people came here to make a living so I just cannot complain about that situation. Click here to view more photos of the unfinished home. Philadelphia, PA, May 09, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- VSBLTY Groupe Technologies Corp. (CSE: VSBY) (Frankfurt: 5VS) (OTC:VSBGF), a leading software technology company, has joined the Cyber Ops Alliance (COA), a major international cyber security integrator, according to a joint announcement today by Dan Downing, COA CEO, and Jay Hutton, VSBLTY Co-founder & CEO. A consortium of best-in-class cyber security specialists, COA was founded by former intelligence community executives, decorated military general officers, senior law enforcement directors and the worlds best subject matter experts on Darknet operations. Each company in the Alliance brings unique capabilities and operates as part of a COA team with a clear, coordinated focus. COA member solutions are in use in various deployments including Federal law enforcement agencies, large philanthropic institutions, a global private security firm and numerous state fusion centers, which provide resources, expertise and information to maximize the ability to detect, prevent, investigate and respond to criminal and terrorist activities. In making the announcement, Downing said, We are excited that VSBLTYs leading-edge technology can now be combined with the advanced security capabilities of other COA companies. Wherever deployed, VSBLTY can provide perimeter security by looking for persons of interest or by identifying objectsincluding weaponsin real time. VSBLTY Vector is cutting-edge software technology that uses artificial intelligence and machine learning toin millisecondsidentify individuals from a pre-loaded database as well as any type of weapon. Hutton added, With more and more so-called soft targets being attacked around the world, heightened security is needed virtually everywhere, and innovative technologies are needed to do that. In most instances, our face on cameras provide better facial recognition than overhead CCTV cameras to enable faster, professional security responses to threats. As part of the COA, we are advancing the increasingly important ability to provide security where it has never been available before. Investor Relations MarketSmart Communications Inc.,+1-877-261-4466 info@marketsmart.ca CONTACT: Linda Rosanio, 609-472-0877 lrosanio@vsblty.net About VSBLTY (www.vsblty.net) Headquartered in Philadelphia, VSBLTY (CSE: VSBY) (Frankfurt: 5VS) (OTC:VSBGF) is the world leader in Proactive Digital Display, which transforms retail and public spaces as well as place-based media networks with SaaS-based audience measurement and security software that uses artificial intelligence and machine learning. CONTACT: Dan Downing dan.downing@advantagefactory.com Parliament Inquiry Needed. What really is Trias Politica ? The separation of 3 branches: the legislative, the executive, and the judiciary branch. Under the separation of powers, each branch is independent, has a separate function, and may not absorb the functions of another branch. However, the branches are interrelated. They cooperate with one another and also prevent one another from attempting to assume too much power. This relationship is described as one of checks and balances, where the functions of one branch serve to contain and modify the power of another. Through this elaborate system of safeguards, it is to protect the nation against tyranny. Minister of Justice Cornelius Deweever has mentioned on many occasions that this is the principle of Justice which should never be compromised in any form. Let be honest the Trias Politica is out of equilibrium balance on St.Maarten. Investigate Breach of Trias Politica Justice Minister Cornelius Deweever Minister of Justice has been preaching the essence of the Trias Politica Rules on many occasions. Based on the credible media reports (sources) and the findings of the Commission Fokkens report an investigation is needed. If one is familiar with the Commission Fokkens report it was also initiated based on media reports on integrity breaches by OM-prosecutor leadership. The conclusion of the report findings was more alarming then originally perceived. Investigate Complaints Specific Prosecutors and Reports While it was highly publicized that a particular judge and the OM was concocting with the TBO team in some investigations as the trio were seen eating at the Greenhouse restaurant in January 2018. The findings from Commission Fokkens however also challenges that VU findings become relevant and more credible. In the article SMN News on 4th May 2019 referring on page 10 it explains the dispute of the accusation was about changing and converting information, pre- lying to judges, manipulation of information and withholding vital evidence. In 2009 de Board of Journalism concluded that accusations were not accurately publicized and that the integrity could not be questioned, however, Independent Commission Fokkens report now concludes differently about the integrity of the OM-organization. Since the publication of the Fokkens report, Judge Schols recently departed St. Maarten and have informed attorneys working on the Dutch side that his term has been up. Emails sent out by Judge Schols on April 23rd, 2019 stated that his term was up and he was returning to the Netherlands. It is further alleged that this particular judge had taken some controversial and unethical decisions while handling certain TBO cases Follow Procedures Fokkens Commission Report for St.Maarten A week ago a report on the lack of governance and integrity of the Prosecutors Office in the Netherlands which was requested by Het College van Procureurs Generaal has been completed and published by Commission J.W. Fokkens. This rapport was sent on 25th April 2019 ref: 2579192 by Minister of Justice and Safety Ferd Grapperhaus to the Chair of the Second Chamber in the Netherlands for further debate and handling. Based on the rapport of ANP (Algemeen Nederlands Pers Bureau) on the 25th April 2019 Minister of Justice Fred Grapperhuis mentioned that the findings of the Commission revealed a conclusion which was very critical not only breaches of integrity behavior of two senior officials of the OM but also the way in which the top of the organization has dealt with the issues was stated Investigate Health Care (including Prison Cells) in Detention Procedures: Implement Action The provisions concerning health care in detention from the Basic Law (art. 87-101) were amended with the law of 11 July 2018 laying down various provisions in criminal matters. With this change, the legislator wants to "take the first steps to integrate the penitentiary health care in mainstream healthcare". The explanatory memorandum explicitly refers to the KCE study of 2017 in which this integration is a central recommendation. This recommendation was also made by the WHO in 2003. To be clear: although the provisions of the Basic Law relating to health care have been amended, these have not yet entered into force, in the absence of a royal decree. Until there is a KB, health care is still organized on the basis of the general regulations of the penal institutions. The article, therefore, focuses on the changes in the Basic Law around the health care of the future. We would all agree that many cases in detention always end up in Health Care shortcomings and detention emphasis takes no consideration of each individual circumstance. Dutch Torture cases during detention if Indonesians ( source ABC news 8 December 2018 by Indonesia correspondent Anne Barker) Frail and at times trembling, Yaseman told the judges how the Royal Dutch Indies army had held him captive for more than a year and tortured him in 1947, when he was still a teenager. Dutch forces fighting to reoccupy Indonesia after World War II had arrested him on suspicion of being an Indonesian freedom fighter at the height of the 19451949 independence war. Soldiers had smashed his skull with a lump of wood and stubbed a cigarette out on his head. As the judges watched online, he showed them two round scars in his scalp. Yaseman, who has only one name, made multiple torture claims, alleging that he was forced to drink large volumes of water before being kicked in the stomach. He said he was also subjected to electric shock, telling the court wires hooked to a small machine were attached to his finger and sent jolts down his body. "Shocks are worse," Yaseman was quoted as saying in a translated court document. "You can feel a beating once, I can handle that. "But power goes through your entire body and continues to hurt." Yasemen convinced the Judges of the Dutch Actions Yaseman was 89 when he gave evidence. But despite his age and frailty, he recounted his story in convincing detail. "He had such a sharp memory," says his grandson Iswanto, who sat beside him in the "virtual courtroom".But Yaseman didn't live to hear the judges' decision. He died a few months after giving evidence. In July the court accepted his testimony as proof that Dutch forces had indeed subjected him to torture. The court found enough evidence to prove Yaseman's claims about the beatings and the cigarette burns, however, the electric shock and water torture were unable to be verified. In the ruling, the court did concede the use of such torture methods was "entirely possible". The Dutch Government was ordered to pay damages and costs worth around $12,000. Now the Dutch Government is appealing against the court ruling, much to the anger of Yaseman's family and lawyers. "It is a known fact that the Netherlands engaged in large-scale torture during the independence war," said his lawyer in Amsterdam, Liesbeth Zegveld. "Of all the victims, only one has registered with the court, and that is Mr Yaseman. "It is a shame that the state will not take responsibility, even for this one case." Setting a precedent and let it be a lesson for St.Maarten? Ms Zegveld says while the Dutch Government agreed to acknowledge the widows' claims and pay compensation, she has no doubt its appeal against the Yaseman ruling is to prevent these other cases proceeding. "They want an appeals court to decide that 70 years after the event it is simply too late to bring a case to court, and that time bars should be applied as strictly as they are in other cases," she says. "The state should not be allowed to invoke this defence."One non-governmental organisation representing Indonesian claimants says the Dutch Government refuses to face up to the actions of its forces during the 1945-1949 independence war."The state appeal proves that the Netherlands still takes no responsibility for what happened there," wrote Foundation Committee of Dutch Debts of Honour chair Jeffry Pondaag. The Netherlands places a high value on protecting and promoting human rights: PM Rutte Response The Dutch Government maintains it is committed to international human rights and the rule of law. In 2016 it announced a long-running inquiry into atrocities committed in the last days of its colonial rule in Indonesia and warned the inquiry could prove "painful" for Dutch veterans from that period. "The Netherlands places a high value on protecting and promoting human rights, international law and the rule of law," Prime Minister Mark Rutte said at the time. But Mr Pondaag questions the inquiry's independence, given that one of the three research institutions involved the Netherlands Institute of Military History comes under the direct control of the Dutch Defence Ministry. The NMIH "supports the state in opposing and rejecting claims like Yaseman's", he wrote in a letter to the Government last year. The government inquiry is not due to report for several years. But the Yaseman case has reignited debate about the country's own colonial past and raised questions about whether the Netherlands has fully acknowledged its own history of abuse. One fact is certain the District Court in the Hague was convinced about the Dutch State violations How could this be possible happening only some 70 years ago and why? Click here to read the sourced article. Jenoptik: rise in first-quarter order figures provides sound basis for further development Posted by Publisher Internet br /> In the first three months of 2019, order intake was up 5.6 percent to 210.4 million euros, order backlog rose from 27.4 million euros to 548.9 million euros? Group generated revenue of 184.0 million euros (prior year: 189.9 million euros) In line with expectations, EBITDA came to 23.8 million euros, down on prior-year 27.7 million euros Jenoptik confirms annual targets for 2019 In the first three months of 2019, Jenoptik reported good demand in the semiconductor equipment and automotive markets. Export restrictions in the defense business, however, had a negative impact on growth. In addition and as expected, the high level of prior-year revenue in the Light & Safety division could not be fully compensated. Group revenue in the first quarter of 2019 was therefore down 3.1 percent at 184.0 million euros (prior year: 189.9 million euros). Prodomax and the OTTO Group, the companies acquired in the prior year, contributed over 12 million euros of revenue to the Group?s current business performance. On a regional level, growth was exclusively achieved outside Europe. Jenoptik registered its strongest growth in the Americas, where revenue increased a significant 23.4 percent to 47.5 million euros (prior year: 38.5 million euros), primarily due to the contribution made by Prodomax. The fall in revenue, stronger investments in R+D, and higher functional costs compared to the prior-year quarter resulted in EBITDA falling by 14.2 percent to 23.8 million euros (prior year: 27.7 million euros). The EBITDA margin was 12.9 percent (prior year 14.6 percent). At 12.8 million euros, EBIT, too, was down on the prior-year figure of 20.8 million euros, a decrease of 38.6 percent. EBIT for the companies acquired in the prior year came to 0.3 million euros, including financial impacts arising from the purchase price allocation in the amount of minus 1.7 million euros. The Group EBIT margin fell to 7.0 percent (prior year: 11.0 percent). ?As expected, our divisions showed a mixed picture in their business development at the beginning of 2019. On the one hand, export restrictions in the defense business are inhibiting growth and, as anticipated, we could not fully compensate the high revenues of around 15 million euros we generated with toll monitoring systems in our traffic safety business in the prior year. We are, however, seeing continuing good demand in our important semiconductor equipment and automotive markets and, overall, remain on course for growth, as our order book shows,? says Stefan Traeger, President & CEO of JENOPTIK AG. Encouraging growth in order intake; order backlog reached new record value Jenoptik recorded a very good first quarter in terms of order intake. In the first three months of 2019, the Group received orders worth 210.4 million euros, an increase of 5.6 percent (prior year: 199.2 million euros). The order intake was thus above revenue, resulting in a significant rise in the book-to-bill ratio from 1.05 in the prior year to 1.14. The order backlog reached a new record value of 548.9 million euros, also considerably exceeding the figure at year-end 2018 (31/12/2018: 521.5 million euros). As of March 31, 2019, there were also frame contracts worth 57.9 million euros (31/12/2018: 62.5 million euros). As a result of a lower operating cash flow than in the prior year and higher capital expenditure, the free cash flow in the reporting period fell to minus 5.1 million euros (prior year: 13.3 million euros). In addition, customer payments originally expected in early 2019 were already received at the end of December 2018. An increase in financial debt ? in particular due to the introduction of the international financial reporting standard IFRS 16 ? and a slightly lower level of cash and cash equivalents resulted in net debt amounting to 39.2 million euros at the end of this reporting period (31/12/2018: minus 27.2 million euros). Development of the divisions: growth in photonics business, export restrictions impact on VINCORION In the first three months of 2019, the Light & Optics division posted revenue growth of 2.6 percent, to 83.2 million euros (prior year: 81.1 million euros). This development was supported by continuing good business with solutions for the semiconductor equipment industry. Income from operations before depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) fell in comparison with the prior-year quarter by 3.7 percent to 16.6 million euros, primarily due to product mix impacts (prior year: 17.3 million euros). The EBITDA margin remained at a very good level of 19.8 percent (prior year: 21.1 percent). In the first quarter, the division posted an order intake worth 76.5 million euros, equating to a fall of 21.5 percent on the prior year (prior year: 97.4 million euros). This development is attributable to the fact that high-volume orders for semiconductor equipment were placed earlier than expected in 2018. The order backlog was worth 172.4 million euros at the end of March 2019 (31/12/2018: 180.6 million euros). First-quarter revenue in the Light & Production division was 28.9 percent up on the prior-year period, at 50.4 million euros (prior year: 39.1 million euros). Sales of innovative measuring systems for the automotive industry increased, and the newly acquired companies contributed over 12 million euros to revenue growth. On the basis of good revenue performance, the division posted an EBITDA of 5.6 million euros, as expected again reflecting a considerably improved quality of earnings compared to the prior year (prior year: 2.5 million euros). The EBITDA margin grew to 11.0 percent, compared with 6.4 percent in the prior year. The order intake was worth 63.1 million euros (prior year: 44.0 million euros). Demand for automation solutions, in particular, saw strong growth, as shown by our recently announced projects in North America. The order backlog at the end of March was worth 126.9 million euros (31/12/2018: 112.5 million euros). In the first three months of 2019, the Light & Safety division generated revenue of 24.5 million euros (prior year: 33.2 million euros). In the prior year, particularly the delivery of toll monitoring systems had contributed to strong growth in the first quarter. As expected, this fall in revenue was also reflected in EBITDA, which came to 3.7 million euros in the current reporting period following 5.8 million euros in the prior-year quarter. The EBITDA margin thus fell to 15.2 percent (prior year: 17.5 percent). By contrast, the order intake saw good growth, rising by 9.6 percent to 27.0 million euros (prior year: 24.6 million euros). The division?s order backlog consequently also increased by 5.3?percent to 73.2 million euros (31/12/2018: 69.5 million euros). Over the first three months of 2019, VINCORION generated revenue of 25.3 million euros, 29.7 percent down on the prior-year quarter (prior year: 35.9 million euros). This, in particular, was the result of the German government?s decision to extend arms export restrictions in the context of the embargo, among other things on Saudi Arabia. As a result of the fall in revenue and a lower-margin product mix, EBITDA in the first quarter came to minus 0.4 million euros (prior year: 3.5 million euros). The EBITDA margin fell from 9.7 percent in the prior-year quarter to a present minus 1.6 percent. By contrast, the order intake showed an upward trend what is very positive for future business performance. It grew by 32.4 percent to 43.0 million euros (prior year: 32.5 million euros), in part due to new Patriot missile defense and Eurofighter projects. Due to an increased order intake and delayed revenue generation, the division?s order backlog also increased, by 17.4 million euros to 176.2 million euros (31/12/2018: 158.9 million euros). 2019 guidance confirmed ?On the back of sustained good demand in key markets, recently acquired projects, and good order intake growth, we are confident to see good business performance, particularly in the second half of the year, and to achieve our financial targets for 2019,? says Stefan Traeger. The Executive Board of JENOPTIK AG continues to expect momentum to increase over the year and therefore confirms its guidance for 2019. Revenue growth for the full year is due to be in the mid-single-digit percentage range (without any major portfolio changes). The EBITDA margin is expected within the range of 15.5 to 16.0?percent. The Interim Report is available in the ?Investors/Reports and Presentations? section of the Jenoptik website. The ?Jenoptik app? can be used to view the Interim Report on mobile devices running iOS or Android. Images for download can be found in the Jenoptik image database, in the ?Current Events/Financial Reports? gallery. A globally operating technology group. Optical technologies are the very basis of our business with the majority of our products and services being provided to the photonics market. Our key target markets primarily include the semiconductor equipment industry, the medical technology, automotive and mechanical engineering, traffic, aviation as well as the security and defense technology industries. Jenoptik has about 4,000 employees worldwide. TORONTO, May 09, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Monterey Minerals Inc. (the Company or Monterey) (CSE : MREY and FSE :2DK) is pleased to announce that it has signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) to purchase Gold River Resources Pty Ltd. (Gold River Resources) of Perth, Australia. Gold River Resources owns six highly prospective tenements in the Pilbara Basin covering 322 square kilometres (sq.km.). As outlined in the LOI, the Company will buy all the shares of Gold River Resources for 11,000,000 common shares of Monterey. The Company will look to complete a definitive purchase and sale agreement in Q2 2019. President and CEO, James Macintosh stated With the signing of the LOI with Gold River Resources, our land position in the Pilbara Basin will now increase to 992 sq.km. We are confident that our land package offers us the best opportunities to add value for our shareholders. Upon closing this deal, we will focus on creating an exploration plan for our Pilbara property portfolio. We will be the releasing more details prior to the second half of 2019. Graphic 1: Gold River Resources tenements as well as our 100%-owned Monterey tenements: http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/bb082108-f171-4d36-8325-39def3d354be Highlights of the tenement package included in the LOI are detailed below (see Graphic 1 above): Tenement E47/3958 and E47/3959, comprising roughly 218 sq.km., abuts Pacton Gold to the west and is just north of Novo Resources. Locally, E47/3958 is 7 km to the north of De Grey Minings Withnell Mining Centre that hosts over 445,000 ounces (ozs) of gold (Measured and Indicated) with another 429,000 ozs (Indicated) in a cluster of deposits (ASX:DEG - 2018 Annual Mineral Resources Statement). Withnell is also the site of De Greys proposed gold processing facility (DEG March Quarterly Report 2019). There is a prospective quartz vein in the centre of the property that can be traced for over 400 metres at surface with evidence of artisanal mining. Pacton Golds exploration in the adjacent area in similar-aged granitoids have found occurrences of swarms of quartz veins, many of which host gold mineralization. Tenement E47/3960, comprising approximately 20 sq.km., abuts Kairos Minerals Croyden project, which hosts gold with conglomerates, and is just northwest of Pacton Golds tenement E47/3905. The Hardy Formation outcrops within 1 km of the western boundary of the lease and possibly also occurs within E47/3960. The conglomerates of the Hardy Formation have been targeted historically for gold and uranium mineralization. Tenement E45/5180, comprising roughly 6 sq.km., abuts a Novo Resources tenement to the northwest and is adjacent to Novo Resources Talga Talga Mining Centre, located 20 km north of the town of Marble Bar. The Talga Talga Mining Centre and E45/5180 are situated within the greenstone belts surrounding the Mt Edgar Granitoid Complex. The historic workings at Talga Talga were mined until 1940 with 1,614 ozs of gold mined from 1,432 tonnes of ore for an average grade of 35.1 grams per tonne of gold (ASX:TLG - Talga Gold Limited Prospectus). Tenements E46/1243, is a single block tenement of roughly 3 sq.km. sitting within the Middle Creek mineralized corridor of the Mosquito Creek Formation. The Middle Creek mineralized corridor is known to host over 745,000 ozs of gold (Measured and Indicated) with another 410,000 ozs (Inferred) in numerous deposits currently being mined by Millennium Minerals, who are targeting gold production of 90,000 ozs to 100,000 ozs in 2019 (ASX:MOY - 2018 Ore Reserve and Mineral Resource Statement). E46/1243 sits in close proximity to a major structural offset of the Blue Spec Fault, a well mineralized structure which hosts the Blue Spec Gold Mine. Tenements E46/1244, covers roughly 32 sq.km. and is 5 km south of the Mosquito Creek Formation. The ground is underexplored and the only previous exploration was regional stream sediment sampling and bulk sampling for diamonds by DeBeers Australia Ltd. The Sandy Creek Cu-Pb-Zn-Ag (copper, lead, zinc & silver) prospect is 7 km to the east of the project. Qualified Person The technical information in this press release has been reviewed and approved by Martin Dormer, a consultant to the Company, who is a Qualified Person as defined by NI 43-101. Martin is a member of the Australian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (AusIMM), the Australian Institute of Geoscientists (AIG). He is a West Australian geologist with over 22 years experience and sufficient experience of relevance to the styles of mineralization and types of deposits under consideration to qualify as a Competent Person as defined by the 2012 Edition of the Joint Ore Reserves Committee (JORC) Australian Code for Reporting of Exploration Results, Mineral Resources, and Ore Reserves. About Monterey Minerals Inc. Monterey Minerals is a mineral exploration company focused on its 671 sq.km. of prospective ground on the eastern flank of the Pilbara Basin in Western Australia. The Company has a total of ten tenements, including 140 sq. km. which abuts Pacton Golds tenement where gold-bearing conglomerates were identified. The Company also owns the Cobalt Mountain Project (the Project), near Smithers, BC. The Companys NI 43-101, on SEDAR, notes historic sampling at the Project that returned mineralized showings of gold, silver, copper, zinc and cobalt. For more information, contact investor relations at info@montereyminerals.com On Behalf of the Board of Directors, James Macintosh President and CEO Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its regulation services provider has reviewed or accepted responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release This press release may include forward-looking information within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation, concerning the business of the Company. Forward-looking information is based on certain key expectations and assumptions made by the management of the Company. Although the Company believes that the expectations and assumptions on which such forward-looking information is based on are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on the forward-looking information because the Company can give no assurance that they will prove to be correct. Forward-looking statements contained in this press release are made as of the date of this press release. The Company disclaims any intent or obligation to update publicly any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise, other than as required by applicable securities laws. Tuesday, May 14, 2019 - Canaccord Genuity 3rd Annual Cannabis Conference; Grand Hyatt Hotel, New York, NY Wednesday, May 15th - CannaStocks 2019 Q1 Investor Conference; OTC Markets Group Headquarters, 300 Vesey Street, New York, NY NORWOOD, MA, May 09, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- MariMed Inc. (OTCQB: MRMD) a leading multi-state cannabis and hemp operator in the US, announced today that MariMed CEO Bob Fireman will present at two cannabis investor conferences in New York City, May 14th and 15th. On Wednesday, May 14th, MariMed CEO Bob Fireman will present a company overview at 3:20 PM at the Canaccord Annual Cannabis Conference at the Grand Hyatt in New York City. On Thursday, May 15th, he will present an overview at 10:30 AM at the CannaStocks 2019 Q1 Investor Conference held at the OTC Markets Group headquarters at 300 Vesey Street in New York City. MariMed CEO Bob Fireman noted, MariMed has been moving quickly to leverage opportunities in both cannabis and hemp-based CBD markets in the US, Europe, and Latin America. We look forward to reviewing our progress at both cannabis investor events in New York." About MariMed Inc. MariMed, Inc. is dedicated to improving health and wellness with the highest quality hemp and cannabis products. The company offers a full range of cannabis products, operates state of the art cannabis dispensaries in six states, and has recently announced the formation of a separate division, MariMed Hemp, focused on the development of industrial hemp-derived CBD products. The Company made a major investment in Kentucky-based GenCanna USA, a national leader in the cultivation and processing of hemp and GMP compliant CBD products. Across its branded products, MariMed is in the forefront of precision dosed branded products for the treatment of specific symptoms and conditions. MariMed licenses and distributes its branded cannabis products in states where legal. MariMed will be distributing its CBD branded products across the country and abroad. For additional information, visit www.MariMedAdvisors.com . Search MariMed and post on social media with the hash tag #MedicatedByMarimed: Twitter: @MariMedInc Facebook: @MariMedInc Instagram: MariMedInc YouTube: MariMedInc Forward Looking Statements: This release contains certain forward-looking statements and information relating to MariMed Inc. that is based on the beliefs of MariMed Inc.s management, as well as assumptions made by and information currently available to the Company. Such statements reflect the current views of the Company with respect to future events including estimates and projections about its business based on certain assumptions of its management, including those described in this Release. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risk and uncertainties that are difficult to predict, including, among other factors, changes in demand for the Company's services and products, changes in the law and its enforcement and changes in the economic environment. Additional risk factors are included in the Company's public filings with the SEC. Should one or more of these underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described herein as "hoped," "anticipated," "believed," "planned, "estimated," "preparing," "potential," "expected," looks or words of a similar nature. The Company does not intend to update these forward-looking statements. None of the content of any of the websites referred to herein (even if a link is provided for your convenience) is incorporated into this release and the Company assumes no responsibility for any of such content. #### Media: Julie Shepherd, Accentuate PR Julie@accentuatepr.com 847-275-3643 NASA astronaut Nick Hague honored actor Peter Mayhew, the original Chewbacca of "Star Wars," with a photo memorial on the International Space Station on May 8, 2019. "Star Wars" fans on Earth aren't the ones mourning the death of actor Peter Mayhew, who portrayed the iconic Wookie Chewbacca. NASA astronaut Nick Hague on the International Space Station honored the late actor, who died April 30, in a way only astronauts can: with a photo tribute above planet Earth. "Honoring Peter Mayhew (also known as Chewbacca) up here on Space Station," Hague wrote on Twitter Wednesday (May 8). "Thank you Peter for inspiring generations of explorers." Hague added a photo printout of Mayhew in full Chewbacca garb, with only his head uncovered, floating in the space station's Cupola (a 7-window observation module). A brilliant blue Earth shines behind the photo, as do the gold solar arrays of a visiting Northrop Grumman Cygnus cargo ship. Mayhew died last week at age 74. Standing 7 foot 3 inches tall, he originated the role of Chewbacca in the original "Star Wars" film trilogy, and revisited the role in the "Star Wars Holiday Special," "Revenge of the Sith" and "The Force Awakens." A memorial service for friends and family will be held on June 29, with a memorial for fans early December at EmpireCon in Los Angeles. Mayhew is survived by his wife, Angie, and three children. WASHINGTON Blue Origin is shooting for the moon! The private spaceflight company revealed the first life-size mockup of its new lunar lander, named "Blue Moon," here at the Washington Convention Center today (May 9). "This is an incredible vehicle, and its going to the moon," Blue Origin founder and chief executive Jeff Bezos told a room full of spectators after the curtain dropped to reveal the big, shiny spacecraft. Blue Moon is designed to carry rovers and other large payloads to the lunar surface, but it could also take astronauts to the moon, said Bezos, who also founded Amazon.com and is the richest person in the world. To modify Blue Moon for a crewed spaceflight, the company would top the spacecraft with an attachable, pressurized ascent vehicle. Before launching astronauts to the moon, Blue Origin would first test out the lunar lander with an uncrewed mission, Bezos said. While Bezos did not explicitly state that Blue Origin plans to offer its new vehicle to NASA for the agency's ambitious push to land American astronauts on the moon in 2024, a newly posted description on the company's website states that the crew-carrying variant of Blue Moon "has been designed to land an ascent vehicle that will allow us to return Americans to the moon by 2024." (Blue Origin representatives had mentioned Blue Moon before, but they hadn't given us a good look until today.) Image 1 of 4 (Image credit: Blue Origin) Image 2 of 4 (Image credit: Blue Origin) Image 3 of 4 (Image credit: Blue Origin) Image 4 of 4 (Image credit: Blue Origin) NASA has not yet selected a lander for that historic trip, so Blue Moon may be a contender. Just last month, Lockheed Martin revealed its proposed plans to build a lunar lander. Lockheed's lander (which has yet to receive a proper name) would be part of the company's "early Gateway" infrastructure for a sustainable human presence on the moon. Whether NASA astronauts can really make it to the moon by 2024 is still a subject of debate, but a few things are certain: private companies and other space agencies around the world are gearing up for a new wave of lunar exploration, and Blue Origin has entered the new moon race. We'll have to wait a little longer to get an idea of how much it'll cost to put astronauts on the moon by 2024. NASA has calculated a preliminary price tag for this ambitious goal, which U.S. Vice President Mike Pence announced in late March . But that estimate cannot be disclosed at the moment, because it's still being reviewed by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) and NASA's chief financial officer, agency officials said. "Right now, its under review, and we cant come up with [disclose] a number," Mark Sirangelo, special assistant to NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine, said today (May 8) during a hearing of the space and aeronautics subcommittee of the U.S. House of Representatives' Science, Space and Technology committee. Related: Can NASA Really Put Astronauts on the Moon in 2024? "Weve provided the information," added Sirangelo, who previously served as executive vice president for Sierra Nevada Space Systems. "The discussions have been very positive and open, and as soon as those discussions are complete and OMB has approved the numbers, theyll provide them to you." Returning humans to the lunar surface has been official U.S. policy since December 2017, when President Donald Trump signed Space Policy Directive 1 . NASA intends to establish a sustainable outpost on the moon as well as a small orbiting space station called the Gateway , and use the lessons learned in the construction and operation of these assets to prepare for human missions to Mars in the 2030s. The initial timeline targeted the late 2020s for the first crewed moon landings, which will take place near the lunar south pole. But Pence increased the urgency during a March 26 meeting of the National Space Council . Neither NASA nor the White House has said how much money will likely be needed to ace the 2024 moon shot, so speculation has filled the information vacuum. For example, some reports have suggested that NASA will ask for an additional $8 billion per year over the next five years. Bridenstine shot down those rumors last week, but didn't offer up any figures of his own. "I will tell you that is not accurate," he said at a May 1 hearing of the commerce, justice and science subcommittee of the U.S. Senate Committee on Appropriations. "It is nowhere close to that amount. But I don't want to throw out a number until we have gone through the process with OMB and the National Space Council." NASA also has not published a plan detailing how it's going to achieve the 2024 lunar landing a fact that seems to have rankled some subcommittee members. "In hearings from the last Congress to the present, members of the subcommittee and full committee have repeatedly asked for this road map, only to receive in response a high-level strategy that was delivered over a year and a half late," subcommittee chairwoman Kendra Horn, D-Okla., said in her opening statement during today's hearing. In addition, during the question-and-answer portion of the hearing, Horn noted that Bridenstine promised to provide the Science committee with an amended budget request "very close to April 15." "It's now May 8," Horn said, addressing Sirangelo and fellow hearing participant Bill Gerstenmaier, associate administrator for NASA Human Exploration and Operations. "My question is, what is the reason for the delay, and can you commit to providing this committee with a lunar plan and budget amendment on what date?" Gerstenmaier responded that the 2020 moon goal is challenging and complex, and NASA is taking the time to get its plans and cost estimates right. But the road map should be ready soon, he said. "We're probably several weeks away maybe a week to two weeks away from being able to give you a plan and show you what we have moving forward [in] specifics," Gerstenmaier said. He also stressed, in response to a question from subcommittee member Katie Hill, D-Calif., that the 2024 target is feasible. "I think its very achievable," Gerstenmaier said. "The challenge will be, can we get through the political process? Can we get the political stability, can we get the funding necessary to go do this in the time frame to move forward? Can we get any legislation relief that we might need, and get a clarity of purpose? Can we get united in this goal enough to move forward at the pace that wed like to go? Thatll be the biggest challenge." Also testifying today before the subcommittee were Jonathan Lunine, director of the Cornell Center for Astrophysics and Planetary Science; Patricia Sanders, chair of the Aerospace Safety Advisory Panel; and Walt Faulconer, president of the Faulconer Consulting Group. Jeff Bezos, the billionaire founder and CEO of Amazon.com, is also the founder of the private commercial spaceflight company Blue Origin. Update for May 9: Jeff Bezos unveiled Blue Origin's new Blue Moon lunar lander for missions to the moon. See our full coverage here. Original story: Jeff Bezos will reveal some news today (May 9) about the final frontier. The world's richest man will speak to the media at 4 p.m. EDT (2100 GMT) in Washington, D.C., about his spaceflight company, Blue Origin . During the event, "we will give you an update on our progress and share our vision of going to space to benefit Earth," Blue Origin representatives said in a media advisory. They didn't provide any further details. But there's reason to suspect the topic may be lunar exploration. On April 26, Blue Origin tweeted a photo of Antarctic explorer Ernest Shackleton's ship, the Endurance, along with the digits "5.9.19" a reference to today's date. Related: New Glenn: Blue Origin's Reusable Rocket Shackleton's name graces a crater at the moon's south pole that's thought to harbor lots of water ice on its permanently shadowed floor. Indeed, the Shackleton Crater region is often floated as a good spot for a lunar outpost. 5.9.19 pic.twitter.com/BzvwCsDM2TApril 26, 2019 See more And Blue Origin is interested in the moon. The company is developing a lunar lander called Blue Moon , which will be able to deliver about 5 tons (4.5 metric tons) of payload to the moon's surface. Blue Origin is also working on a rocket called New Armstrong, about which very little is known. But the names the company chooses for its vehicles tend to reveal their destinations. For example, Blue Origin calls its suborbital spaceflight system New Shepard , after NASA astronaut Alan Shepard, the first American to reach suborbital space. The company's orbital rocket is New Glenn, which honors John Glenn, the first American to orbit Earth. And New Armstrong is, obviously, named after Neil Armstrong, the first person to walk on the moon. Space.com will be at today's event, so we'll see in a few hours if this speculation was on target or not. Stay tuned! Commercial use of water ice in craters near the lunar poles could help open the moon to long-term human settlement. The moon is back in vogue. The United States aims to return astronauts to the lunar surface by 2024 , and then build up a long-term, sustainable presence on Earth's nearest neighbor. The European Space Agency has repeatedly stressed a desire to establish a "moon village" in the near future, and China has crewed lunar ambitions as well. And then there's the private sector. Companies such as Blue Origin, Moon Express and Astrobotic are building landers to deliver payloads to the lunar surface. Before too much longer, such craft may carry mining robots that first test, and then exploit, lunar resources such as water ice, which appears to be plentiful on the floors of permanently shadowed polar craters. Related: Home on the Moon: How to Build a Lunar Colony (Infographic) And, in case you hadn't heard, SpaceX is building a giant spaceship to ferry people to and from the moon, Mars and other solar system destinations. Author (and longtime Space.com contributor and columnist) Leonard David looks at these coming developments and much more in his new book " Moon Rush: The New Space Race ," which was published this week by National Geographic. Space.com recently caught up with David to talk about the book and the future of lunar exploration. Leonard David's book "Moon Rush" was published by National Geographic on May 7, 2019. (Image credit: National Geographic) Space.com: People have talked about returning humans to the moon for decades now, since the end of the Apollo program in the early 1970s, but it still hasn't happened. Is there something different about this moment? Or do you think the momentum we see building will stall? Leonard David: In some ways, I'm too old and cranky, and it reminds me of other things that have happened in my lifetime, when the moon was in vogue and the program got curtailed. I lived through all the Apollo landings, and, as you know, there were a lot of other plans beyond Apollo 17. We would've gotten a lot bolder more pinpoint landings on a lot of different parts of the moon. But I do give credit to the Trump Administration, particularly to the Space Council being re-established . I think that's the new twist in this story that council and the people that are on it, trying to help guide the administration to make a space program that can be stood up and withstand the test of time instead of falling apart. Again, I've seen this before, where you get a lot of momentum going and then the monies never arrive, and things start falling apart. Without constancy of purpose, we will relinquish our goal of returning humans to the moon, and other countries are going to fill that void. Related: Moon Base Visions: How to Build a Lunar Colony (Photos) Space.com: About those other countries: Apollo was driven largely by a space race with the Soviet Union . Do you see something similar happening today, even if it's not so overt, with China or other nations? David: I've kind of convinced myself that it's a little bit of a low-latency Sputnik effect . We've got all the makings of a rivalry with other countries, China being on top of the list. And I do think they have a multifaceted program that we haven't focused on. They may actually have a quite capable space-station program, as well as a moon-landing program. They're on the far side of the moon with a probe , and they're going to perhaps launch a [lunar] sample-return mission at the end of the year, depending on how the next Long March 5 launch goes, coming up in July. It does seem to me to have all the makings of some kind of space race that we're not really cognizant of. [U.S. Vice President Mike] Pence has said "space race," so it's becoming part of the terminology of why we're going back to the moon. The other thing is, the idea that the European Space Agency is still involved with a "moon village" and opening that up to other nations is interesting, as well as us building the Lunar Gateway , if that becomes a real program. They try to subdivide that into international involvement kind of a mini-International Space Station. So, you put all those pieces together I don't know. I smell space race. Space.com: And you've also got all the private companies involved now. David: Exactly. When we say "space race," there are these companies now, too, with private entrepreneurs. The Israeli lander [Beresheet] crashed , but it does show us what could be forthcoming from a lot of private companies and groups. But I do think that with that come the lawyers. [There will be] different types of governance that are going to be involved on the moon, and the lawyers are already there, sniffing around the craters. I'm not sure we know yet what is really going to happen with the legal aspect of multiple nations going, particularly when the moon is becoming carved up into projected bases. There are certain points on the moon where you want to be, and you want to be there first, before anybody else. Related: Who Owns the Moon? A Space Lawyer Answers Space.com: Yeah, that's going to be tricky. There's a lot of talk about mining lunar resources not just water ice, but also maybe minerals, and perhaps even helium-3. And if there really are billions and billions of dollars to be made there, then there are going to be lots of fights about who owns what. Is it going to be another land rush? We're going to see that play out. David: That's what I think. You can see that there's going to be tension; it almost seems like "We're going to do whatever we want to do and then ask for forgiveness later." We've seen this before claim jumpers and whatever when you go back in history. Space.com: So, with all of this going on, do you see something big happening with lunar exploration in the next 10 to 20 years? David: I do. I think some of it's going to depend on what we find there with the first sorties of humans and more robotic exploration. This lunar ice question is questionable; we're not sure what we're dealing with there. We're not sure what the consistency is, how hard it will be to drag out of the bottom of craters that are ultracold. Can you do that economically? So, we need a lot more data. If you're trying to predicate the whole economic value of the moon, you better know what you're going to go and dig out. And there's one thing that's lurking I kind of touched on it, but I wish would've written more about it and that's the military utility of the moon . I think that's a sleeper thing. You can see even the generals starting to talk about cislunar space. So, this is another higher ground than where we have been in the past, and now we're going to have cislunar things that the military is very interested in. I think that's another one that's coming that we'll have to keep an eye on. And then you get into let's say you do have an economic windfall on the moon. It's to a country's benefit to protect it make sure nobody tampers with anything. That has all the makings of the conflicts we get down here on Earth. Space.com: Can we take any lessons about this next giant leap from Apollo? Apollo was so long ago now, it's almost out of living memory. And what we want to do on the moon next is very different go and stay, not just plant flags and leave footprints. David: Unfortunately, as the astronauts die and these ancient astronauts are dropping; there are only a handful left the experience of actually being there is sort of getting lost. A lot of people don't remember Apollo. So, there's an issue of recalling all the things that were actually accomplished. Not just planting flags setting up instruments, and what kind of data was accumulated, and how hard that environment was to work in, particularly the dust. The dust issue is the one that's always held out as, "This is dangerous." There are ways to mitigate it; people have some ideas. I think new technologies will allow us to counter those kinds of issues. [Apollo 17 astronaut Harrison] " Jack" Schmitt is a great example. He's trying to go back and document every footstep he took from a geological perspective. He's trying to document the entire benefit of him, as a geologist, going there. And memories are going to fade. You look at some of the problems we're going to have in trying to establish an economic foothold on the moon; the drawings are cheap. People have a lot of PowerPoints [presentations], how it's going to look. But doing experiments here on Earth and then thinking that's the way it's going to work on the moon it's probably not going to happen. You're going to have to go to the moon and figure out, "Well, that technique does not work." You have to go there and try out stuff. Related: NASA's 17 Apollo Moon Missions in Pictures Space.com: And lots of the tech we'll test out there will help us push even farther out. NASA stresses that the moon is a stepping-stone to the ultimate destination for people Mars. David: I'm big on the stepping-stone thing. The Mercury and Gemini missions were all stepping-stones to proving out Apollo technology. So, I do see this lunar outpost as something important to deep-space habitation. To me, the stepping-stones are very critical in this. NASA needs a steppingstone program, because they're not ready. We've been in low-Earth orbit so long, we've lost that feeling, that moon feeling, how to pull off deep-space exploration. Testing the hardware. And we're still learning about the human body, thanks to the space station program. But the idea that the moon is a "been there, done that" world is flat wrong. We haven't been to that many places on the moon. I look at it like Seward's Folly, when we purchased Alaska. That was very contentious in Congress at the time, why we were spending that much money. But we didn't know what that wilderness was going to provide. The surprises came later, and that was a windfall for the country instead of some folly. So, maybe that's what the moon may represent something like wilderness that we're not quite sure what's there yet, and we need to go there and find out, using humans and robots. We're going to find things on the moon that will surprise us. I'm ready to be surprised. Related: Moon Master: An Easy Quiz for Lunatics Space.com: Is there anything else you'd like to mention? David:I hope the book stirs up conversation. Anytime you write these things, you want people to walk away with maybe more questions than they had going in. Another thing is the ethics of it all. You've got ethics at some level here on the law side, with who's going to be where and how we can operate together on the moon. Are we all going to hold hands, or will there be claim jumpers? That kind of stuff. And then you've got some people it didn't wind up in the book, but I wrote it all some of the advertising people want to do things with the moon. I've seen some pretty wild ideas you know, carving out parts of the moon to make a logo so everybody can see it on Earth. That's the kind of thing that makes people in the audience wince when you even bring it up. And then there's the whole preservation of the moon sites. If you really think, and I do, that tourists will be going to the moon in the future, it'd be nice to visit the Apollo 11 or 17 [landing sites] or whatever, and use those as part of the tourist campaign. There's a pretty good amount of work going on about making the moon a historical site and trying to preserve that for future visitors. You can learn more about "Moon Rush," and purchase the book, via National Geographic . The book is also available on Amazon.com . An unarmed Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile launches during an operational test at 3:40 a.m. EDT (0740 GMT; 12:40 a.m. PDT) on May 9, 2019, at Vandenberg Air Force Base, California. The missiles are really starting to fly. North Korea fired off two short-range missiles in quick succession early this morning (May 9), according to media reports, conducting its second such test in less than a week. The United States followed suit with a much bigger launch of its own just minutes later. The North Korean missiles took flight around 3:30 a.m. EDT (0730 GMT) from the city of Kusong and traveled eastward about 260 miles (420 kilometers) and 170 miles (270 km), respectively, the BBC reported , citing South Korean military officials. Related: In Images: North Korea's Rocket and Missile Program The rogue nation also performed a short-range test on Saturday (May 4) its first missile launch in 18 months. The smoke trail from that vehicle was spotted by one of Planet Labs' tiny, Earth-observing Dove cubesats. Minutes later, at 3:40 a.m. EDT (0740 GMT, 12:40 a.m. local time), the U.S. launched an unarmed Minuteman III from Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The Minuteman III is an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) capable of carrying a nuclear warhead thousands of miles. The Minuteman launch was not a knee-jerk response to North Korea's latest test, however; the Air Force had already been planning the liftoff . And a Minuteman III also flew out of Vandenberg on May 1, before last week's North Korean test. North Korea test-flew an ICBM of its own in November 2017 , and the nation has a stockpile of nuclear weapons. The international community has repeatedly sanctioned North Korea over the years for its development of such technology. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un wants these penalties lifted or lessened and has met with U.S. officials, including President Donald Trump, to make his case. The recent missile tests may be a signal that North Korea is dissatisfied with the state of negotiations, experts have said. Today's launches may also be a response to recent joint military exercises the U.S. has conducted with South Korea, the BBC reported. These exercises have long rankled North Korea's leadership. Editor's note: This story was updated at 1:15 p.m. EDT to state that the U.S. also launched a Minuteman III ICBM on May 1. Hell on Earth Refugees Suffer as Libya's Civil War Rages On As Libya descends into a bloody civil war, thousands of refugees are trapped in the crossfire. Some are forced to fight as mercenaries, while others are systematically raped, tortured or sold as slaves. One Italian is helping them tell their stories. What do three universities, a middle school, a boys and girls club, and a dormitory in Thailand all have in common? Theyre all using Aquaponics. What do all of these places have in common with Splunk? Theyre all going to be using Splunk and are really excited about real-time data! In combination with Engineers for a Sustainable World, Seattle University is working to help sustainable engineering projects around the globe through their university's chapter. Recently, Splunk has been able to start empowering these engineering projects. During the class that Jonathan Moore and I taught on Industrial IoT at the University of Connecticut, one of my students discovered that Seattle University was working on a similar project and had published a paper on the topic. They were using almost the same hardware as we were to pull real-time data out of Aquaponics systems across the world. They were doing all of this work via an Innovation Lab that they have on campusalmost an identical structure to how we developed our course at the University of Connecticut! This was such an exciting discovery for a couple of reasons. Primarily, the proof of concept that Jonathan and I had worked on at the University of Connecticut, across the United States with Spring Valley Student Farm felt validated. We had a second university doing very similar work and finding value in it. Second, it seemed like this would make Seattle a great candidate for the Splunk Pledge program. As I mentioned, there were many things that were similar between our work at the University of Connecticut and the work at Seattle University. First, we both were hitting a lot of the same roadblocks with the sensor systems that we deployed. Its one thing to put sensors on your desk in a lab, but deploying them into a greenhouse, classroom, or outdoor environment is an entirely different endeavor. We both had to overcome the challenges of weather, rodents, and anything else the world might throw at us. We decided, why not overcome these challenges together, for a greater good? We traded all kinds of ideas back and forth between our two projects and built new and improved sensor systems. Seattle University was able to create several new improvements to the sensor systems including 3D printed parts and a PCB board to hold all of the sensors in their Innovation Lab. I cant thank Dr. Thompson, Dr. Abraham, and Hunter Mason, an undergraduate student, enough for all of their help and the work that were continuing to do together. Despite the similarities, there were a few differences between our two systems. Initially, we used Splunk to collect all of our UConn project data and Seattle University was using a different IoT system. Since we were using Splunk, we were also able to use the all-new Splunk Connected Experiences suite of apps to visualize and display our data right from our Phones, from Apple TVs, and using Augmented Reality. By using the HTTP Event Collector in Splunk, and an ever-growing git repository of scripts I created for various sensors that can be connected to a Raspberry Pi, we were able to pull in real-time data to Splunk. This was exciting to Seattle University as they had been interested in using augmented reality for a long time. In fact, many Industrial IoT companies are also latching on to how useful augmented reality can be when implemented. Take a look at our video of augmented reality from a recent trip I took to Seattle University. &amp;amp;amp;amp;nbsp; But how does a research initiative like one at Seattle University or the University of Connecticut afford a Splunk license? The answer is easily and freely. Luckily for them, we have our Splunk Pledge offering which grants non-profits, veterans, and educational institutions access to free training and a 10GB Splunk license. Its a perfect fit for this type initiative and many others! In addition to the free Splunk Pledge licenses used by both the University of Connecticut and Seattle University, they are using the all-new Splunk Connected Experiences apps that are free and available today in the iOS App Store. Sustainable engineering projects are going on around the world and being improved with the power of Splunk Mobile and Splunk Pledge. Clubs like the Rotary Boys and Girls club in Seattle can teach children of all ages about Aquaponics. Even nearby Washington Middle School has an Aquaponics system inside of their classroom, so students can get a firsthand look at a very sustainable method of farming and Splunk can be there to monitor it all. pH Level is too high? Send a Splunk Alert. Dissolved Oxygen is getting too low? Know about it immediately. Splunk and our Connected Experiences apps take all the hard work out of data analysis and put analytics right in your pocket. How can you help? Get involved! New York, May 08, 2019 (SPS) -. The representative of the Frente POLISARIO to the United Nations, Dr. Sidi Mohamed Omar, met Tuesday with the Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations, Mr. Jean-Pierre Lacroix. During the meeting, the Saharawi diplomat conveyed to the UN head, the POLISARIO's position on several issues related to the United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO) and the United Nations peace process in the Western Sahara. On April 30, the UN Security Council adopted resolution 2468 (2019), through which it decided to extend the mandate of the United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO) for six months, inviting the parties to the conflict, the Frente POLISARIO and Morocco, to resume negotiations under the auspices of the UN with a view to reaching a just, lasting and mutually acceptable political solution that guarantees the self-determination of the people of Western Sahara. Following the resolution, the Frente POLISARIO issued a statement in which it took note of the affirmation by the Security Council of its commitment to move forward with the United Nations peace process in Western Sahara despite strong opposition to who seek to maintain the status quo. The Frente POLISARIO also reaffirmed its sincere and constructive cooperation with the efforts of the Secretary-General of the United Nations and his Personal Envoy, President Horst Kohler, as well as his willingness to participate constructively in direct negotiations between the parties.SPS 125/090/TRA Pune, India, May 09, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Refractories Market is poised to touch USD 30,820 Mn by 2025 at an impressive 4.08% CAGR during the Forecast Period (2018-2025), reveals the latest report by Market Research Future (MRFR). Market Analysis Refractory materials or refractories are designed to withstand high temperatures which are used in making molds or crucibles. The global refractories market, according to the MRFR report, is set to achieve an ascension of 4.08% CAGR during the forecast period of 2016-2025. Refractory materials can be made from both, natural and synthetic materials that are generally non-metallic, or combinations of compounds and minerals like alumina, bauxite, fireclays, dolomite, chromite, silicon carbide, magnesite, and zirconia. The steep ascension in demand for non-ferrous metals used to manufacture castings for different industries is one of the primary factors contributing to upscaling of the global refractories market. Another vital factor pushing the global refractories market is the extensive use of refractory materials in cement production. Further, augmenting infrastructural developments across the globe is also encouraging the global refractory materials market to capture new heights on the growth chart. Get Free Sample @ https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/sample_request/2393 Key Players and Industry Buzz Some of the renowned players in the global Refractory Materials Market include Krosaki Harima Corporation (Japan), Saint-Gobain (France), HarbisonWalker International (U.S.), RHI Magnesita GmbH (Austria), Morgan Advanced Materials (U.K.), Vesuvius (England), Shinagawa Refractories Co. Ltd. (Japan), CoorsTek Inc. (U.S.), Calderys (France), and Chosun Refractories Eng. Co. Ltd. (South Korea). Many market players are undertaking expansion and mergers & acquisitions activities to capture larger market shares, to gain a competitive advantage over their peers. For instance, on 30th April 2019, Orient Refractories Limited completed their whole acquisition of Intermetal Engineers India Private Limited (IEIPL) aiming to increase their market share in the refractories industry. Market Segmentation The global refractories market has been segmented based on alkalinity, form, application, and region by Market Research Future (MRFR) for an in-depth analysis. Based on alkalinity, the global refractory materials market is segmented into basic and acidic & neutral. The acidic & neutral segment held the largest market share of 58.53% and is anticipated to record a steady CAGR of through the forecast period. Such growth of the segment can be attributed to its lower cost and its ability to resist slag erosion at high temperatures. On the other hand, the basic segment is anticipated to exhibit a CAGR of 3.42% in the foreseeable period. On the basis of form, the global Refractories Market is segmented into shaped and unshaped. The unshaped refractories segment obtained the largest refractories market share, holding 61% in 2018. It is also likely to reach a valuation of USD 14,180.5 million by the end of the conjectured time frame. The same segment is likely to witness a surge owing to their use as a replacement of traditional brick refractories owing to the advantages of the monolithic linings. These advantages include the elimination of joints, better spalling tendency, greater volume stability, easier transportation & handling, and the requirement of low skilled measures. On the basis of application, the global refractories market has been studied for the segments of cement, iron & steel, glass, and non-ferrous metals. Among these segments, the cement segment is anticipated to garner the second largest market share by the end of the forecast period. Whereas, the iron & steel segment held the most significant market share of 67.92% in 2018 and is estimated to exhibit a 3.83% CAGR through the forecast timeline. While the cement is projected to showcase a moderate CAGR, the fastest growing segment through the assessment period is expected to be the glass segment owing to the widespread use of refractories for resisting the softening or degradation of molten glass. Browse the market data and information spread across 191 pages with 237 data tables and 25 figures of the report Refractories Market Report - Forecast 2018-2025 in-depth alongside table of content (TOC) at: https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/reports/refractories-market-2393 Regional Analysis The global Refractories Market has been segmented, on the basis of region, into Europe, Asia Pacific, North America, and the Middle East & Africa. Among these regional segments, the APAC region was observed to hold the largest refractories market share of 45% in 2018. Asia Pacific is anticipated to reach a market valuation of USD 14,788.3 million by 2025 and to register the fastest ascension rate, at 5.10% CAGR through the review period. The Asia Pacific is mustering such stellar growth owing to the mushrooming construction activities coupled with supportive government regulations in the developing countries like India, China, and Japan. A consistent rise in the iron & steel production in China is also likely to contribute heavily to the growth of the refractories market. Furthermore, an upsurge recorded in the production of motor vehicles and booming residential construction industry is fueling the domestic production demand for non-ferrous metal-based refractories. Europe is projected to follow the Asia Pacific, accounting for the second largest share in the global refractories market. Europe held 24% of the market share in 2018 and is expected to register a CAGR of 2.72% during the assessment timeline. Browse Related Reports: Cement Market Research Report by Type (Rapid Hardening Cement, Low Heat Cement, High Alumina Cement, White Cement, Colored cement, Hydrographic cement), Application (Construction, Infrastructure) - Forecast 2016-2022 https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/reports/cement-market-2047 Glass Additives Market Research Report by Product (Metal Oxide, Nanoparticles and Polymers & Rare Earth Metals), Application (Building & Construction, Packaging, Automotive & Transportation, Electronics & Appliances) Region - Forecast till 2023 https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/reports/glass-additives-market-5140 About Market Research Future: At Market Research Future (MRFR), we enable our customers to unravel the complexity of various industries through our Cooked Research Report (CRR), Half-Cooked Research Reports (HCRR), & Consulting Services. MRFR team have supreme objective to provide the optimum quality market research and intelligence services to our clients. Our market research studies by products, services, technologies, applications, end users, and market players for global, regional, and country level market segments, enable our clients to see more, know more, and do more, which help to answer all their most important questions. In order to stay updated with technology and work process of the industry, MRFR often plans & conducts meet with the industry experts and industrial visits for its research analyst members. NEW CANAAN A request for a disability pension from the former food services director of New Canaan Public Schools led to his arrest for larceny. Bruce Glucks attorney repeatedly called the town requesting his disability pension, which would be nearly $37,000 annually, First Selectman Kevin Moynihan said at his bi-monthly media briefing on Thursday. Moynihan said the state Attorney Generals Office alerted town officials about a state statute that denies pensions to people who commit theft or fraud against their employer. Gluck, 61, who now lives in Middletown Springs, Vt., was charged last week with first-degree larceny by defrauding the public, conspiracy to commit first-degree larceny and tampering with physical evidence in a case that saw nearly a half million dollars taken from school cafeterias. Because of (the towns) investigation, the prosecutors office sought bank records and determined that cash was being deposited to Mr. Glucks bank accounts, so we were able to establish enough evidence to prosecute and certainly enough evidence to deny the pension plan, Moynihan said. The arrest of Gluck is part of the investigation that led to the arrests of Joanne Pascarelli and Marie Wilson in 2018. The sisters were charged with first-degree larceny by defrauding the public, after finding they had taken money from the cafeteria. They have each pleaded not guilty, with Wilson due in Stamford Superior Court June 17 and Parcarelli June 19. In 2014, Wilson was a defendant in a lawsuit that claimed she had assaulted and inflicted emotional distress on another food services employee. These non-teacher employees were on the towns plan, and Moynihan is chairman of the Pension Committee. Gluck had applied for a disability pension and I didnt think it was right to try to approve the pension unless we knew what the truth was, so we persisted, Moynihan said. Moynihan said Glucks pension would have been a substantial amount of money over 20 or 30 years. Moynihan said New Canaan Police Chief Leon Krolikowski felt there was not enough evidence to charge Gluck. But Moynihan said parents have been complaining their children may have been double-charged for food for years. I have heard from so many parents; I think there is enough evidenciary parent testimony, I believe it is true, Moynihan said. Gluck was initially held on $50,000 bond and was released on $25,000 bond after his arraignment. Kids at Glen Park Elementary in San Francisco are learning that sometimes life isnt fair. A second-grade teacher at the school is on leave for at least the rest of the school year as she battles cancer. Parents were shocked when they discovered the school district is charging her for her own substitute. Parents were outraged and incredulous like, this cant be, said Amanda Fried, who has a daughter in kindergarten and another in third grade. There must be some mistake. "She's an incredible teacher and that's not fair. That's crazy!" parent Elia Hernandez told KGO. "She's wonderful, she's a beautiful lovely great teacher. She's one of the best teachers. It's terrible," parent Abby Hipps agreed. The teacher, who doesnt want to be named for privacy reasons, really does have to pay for her own substitute while shes out sick, and its because of state law. This is not unique to San Francisco, explained school district spokeswoman Laura Dudnick. This is not a district-only rule. Teachers in California dont pay into the state disability insurance program, so they cant draw its benefits. The governor and state Legislature in 1976 inserted into the education code that public school teachers can go on leave for an illness or an injury for five months and that their paychecks will be whole, minus the cost of a substitute teacher. The law allows districts to deduct the pay of a substitute even if no substitute was hired. Cynthia Butler, spokeswoman for the California Department of Education, directed questions to the school district and teachers union. In San Francisco, teachers can first use their allotted 10 sick days per year and then go on leave for 100 days, during which theyll be paid their regular salary minus the cost of a sub, which ranges from $174.66 to $240.26 per day. After that, teachers can dip into the catastrophic sick leave bank, which is run jointly by the teachers union and school district. Those are sick days donated by teachers around the district for their peers, and there are currently 511 days in the bank, according to Susan Solomon, president of the teachers union. A teacher can draw up to 85 sick days from the bank, and that pay isnt cut to offset the cost of a substitute teacher. Officially, we have nothing in the contract beyond that, Solomon said. I think we could always do better. In a broader sense, I think single-payer health care is the answer. Fried said that while parents are angry on the teachers behalf, the schools staff doesnt seem riled up. The teachers have sort of shrugged like, 'Yes, thats how it is,' she said. That makes it even more sad, because teachers expect to be treated poorly. In the meantime, families and staff at Glen Park Elementary have contributed to a GoFundMe campaign for the teacher. The campaign recently stopped accepting donations. A Montenegrin court found 14 suspects, including opposition leaders and Russian and Serbian nationals, guilty of staging a failed plot to overthrow the government during the country's 2016 parliamentary elections. The 19-month trial closed a chapter in the geopolitical tussle in eastern Europe, where Russia and the West continue a struggle for influence that began with the 1989 fall of the Iron Curtain. While Moscow made gains with the 2014 seizure of Crimea from Ukraine, it has lost ground in the former Yugoslavia, with NATO granting Montenegro membership and giving Macedonia a green light, while the entire region clamors to join the European Union. Authorities in the former Yugoslav republic said in 2016 they'd foiled the plan to assassinate then-premier Milo Djukanovic, a staunchly pro-Western politician who's held power almost continuously for nearly 30 years. The court in the capital Podgorica delivered the verdicts Thursday against two leaders of a pro-Kremlin, anti-NATO opposition party, two Russians and a group of Serbian citizens to terms ranging from a one-year suspended sentence to 15 years in jail, state broadcaster RTCG reported, citing judge Suzana Mugosa. "Every member of the criminal organization had a predetermined task and role," RTCG cited Mugosa as saying. "There was readiness to use force and intimidation." Authorities said they made arrests on the October election day after intercepting phone calls between the plotters. According to the ruling read by Mugosa, a sizable group of people from Russia, Serbia and Montenegro had prepared to overthrow the government, take over parliament, and kill Djukanovic. Authorities said they'd seized weapons and other materials. The two leaders of the opposition Democratic Front, Andrija Mandic and Milan Knezevic, were sentenced to five years each. They denied wrongdoing, saying the government made the accusations to smear its opponents during the elections. Also convicted was the retired head of Serbia's gendarmerie, Bratislav Dikic. The court handed, in absentia, terms of 15 and 12 years in jail to Russians Eduard Sismakov and Vladimir Popov. Russia has denied any involvement. The sentences can be appealed. If the coup had succeeded, it may have prevented the Balkan country of 600,000 from joining the North Atlantic Treaty Organization. Pro-Russian activists had demanded a referendum on the issue that never took place. Djukanovic won in 2018 presidential elections, returning to the top post after serving three terms as premier. "The failed coup attempt against Montenegro in 2016 was one of the most outrageous examples of Russia's attempts to undermine European democracy," U.K. Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt said in a statement. The GRU Russian intelligence service's "brazen attempt to interfere with Montenegro's national elections and undermine Montenegro's application to join NATO is yet another example of destabilising and aggressive Russian behaviour over the last decade." Also on Tuesday, Russian President Vladimir Putin warned of security risks in Moscow, amid rising tensions with the U.S. over a potential new arms race. He spoke as his army showed off its military might, including nuclear missiles and tanks, in the annual Victory Day parade. Pune, India, May 09, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Metallic Stearates Market is growing at an exponential rate according to a report published by Market Research Future (MRFR) and is assessed to value at USD 4,343.4 million by 2023 at a 5.71% CAGR over the forecast period of 2018 to 2023 Market Analysis Metallic stearates can be defined as compounds of long-chain fatty acids with various metals of different valences and are commonly referred to as salts or soaps. The essential metallic stearates, in terms of quantity, are the metallic stearates of aluminum, calcium, magnesium, and zinc. The main advantage of metallic stearates is their multi-functional usage such as water repellency, gelling capacity, stabilizing effect, foam inhibition, acid scavenger and it also contains lubricating properties, separating properties, and a relatively high melting point. A significant factor driving the demand and influencing the growth of the global metallic stearates market is the growing usage of metallic stearates in the plastic, and rubber industry, to improve the surface texture of plastic and reduce friction, and to prevent the rubber from sticking to the mold or to itself. The metallic stearates market is directly influenced by growth in the plastic and rubber industry. Hence, additional factors influencing the growth of the market is the massive rise in the global rubber demand, which is estimated to surpass 35 million tons by the end of 2019, according to the International Rubber Study Group (IRSG). On the other hand, the issues regarding the filterability of the chemicals using metallic stearate and corrosion concerns due to the use of metallic stearates are restraining factors of the market. Get Free Sample @ https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/sample_request/4901 Key Players The leading market players in the Global Metallic Stearates Market are Dover Chemical Corporation (U.S.), Akrochem Corporation (U.S.), PMC Biogenix, Inc (U.S.), Valtris Specialty Chemicals (U.S.), James M. Brown Ltd (UK), Baerlocher GmbH (Germany), Peter Greven GmbH & Co. KG (Germany), FACI SPA (Italy), PROMAX Industries ApS (Denmark), Nimbasia (India), Marathwada Chemicals (India), Lumega Industries (India), Sun Ace Kakoh (Pte.) Ltd (Singapore), IRRH SPECIALTY CHEMICALS (South Korea), and Sinwon Chemical Co., Ltd (South Korea). Segmental Analysis The global Metallic Stearates Market is segmented based on product, application, and region. Based on the product, the global market has been segmented into zinc, aluminum, magnesium, and calcium. Among these, the zing stearate segment has been assessed to lead the market share at a steady CAGR of 6.7% over the forecast period and is estimated to report a valuation of USD 1,982 million by the end of 2023, due to its high demand and growing usage in various industries for its superior properties. Zinc stearate is used in the cosmetic industry as a thickener and lubricant, as a pigment dispersant in masterbatch and, as a stabilizer in polyvinyl chloride manufacturing. Zinc stearate segment is followed by the aluminum stearate segment, which is estimated to showcase substantial growth through the forecast period due to its growing usage in the manufacturing of paint and coatings, additives, and the construction industry. Based on application, the Global Metallic Stearates Market has been segmented into rubber, polymer and paper, pharmaceuticals and cosmetics, building and construction, paints and coatings, and others. Among these, the rubber segment has been assessed to lead the market growth and reach a valuation of USD 1,695 million by 2023, due to the high usage of metallic stearates as a neutralizer, and stabilizer. The pharmaceuticals and cosmetics segment is expected to value at USD 683 million by the end of the forecast period. The Global Metallic Stearate Market has been segmented based on region into North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and Middle East & Africa. Browse the market data and information spread across 138 pages with 169 data tables and 22 figures of the report Metallic Stearate Market Report - Forecast 2018-2023 in-depth alongside table of content (TOC) at: https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/reports/metallic-stearates-market-4901 Regional Analysis Asia Pacific region has been evaluated as the leading regional Metallic Stearates Market growing at a high CAGR of 6.5% during the forecast period and is assessed to report a valuation of USD 2,200 million by 2023. Emerging economies such as China and India have a significant contribution towards the market growth owing to the rapid industrialization, along with a rise in construction initiatives. Additionally, the massive demand and manufacturing of lightweight, fuel-efficient automobiles have risen to the demand for polymer, which consequently impacts the growth of the global metallic stearate market. North America is the second largest regional Metallic Stearates Market and has been assessed to report significant growth at a 4.82% CAGR, owing to the massive demand from the cosmetic industry, affected by the rise in the disposable income of the consumers. The U.S. Europe and Middle East & Africa are also expected to have a substantial contribution towards the market growth of the Metallic Stearates Market over the forecast period. Browse Related Reports: Zinc Stearate Market Research Report Application (Thickening, Release Agent, Emulsifier) End Use (Rubber Industry, Plastic Industry, Paints & Coatings, Pharmaceutical, Cosmetics, Paper Industry, Construction) Region - Forecast till 2023 https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/reports/zinc-stearate-market-5198 Calcium Nitrate Market Information by the Type of Process (Limestone with Nitric Acid, Phosphate Rock with Nitric Acid, Ammonium Nitrate with Calcium Hydroxide), Application (Fertilizer, Wastewater Treatment, Explosives), Region - Forecast till 2023 https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/reports/calcium-nitrate-market-1630 About Market Research Future: At Market Research Future (MRFR), we enable our customers to unravel the complexity of various industries through our Cooked Research Report (CRR), Half-Cooked Research Reports (HCRR), & Consulting Services. MRFR team have supreme objective to provide the optimum quality market research and intelligence services to our clients. Our market research studies by products, services, technologies, applications, end users, and market players for global, regional, and country level market segments, enable our clients to see more, know more, and do more, which help to answer all their most important questions. In order to stay updated with technology and work process of the industry, MRFR often plans & conducts meet with the industry experts and industrial visits for its research analyst members. D onald Trumps latest salvo in trade hostilities between the US and China caused further volatility for global markets on Thursday. The FTSE 100 Index was trading at a six-week low after the US President last night accused China of breaking the deal the countries had reached in trade talks. The comments to supporters at a campaign rally in Florida follow his tweet on Sunday in which he vowed to double tariffs on $200 billion of Chinese goods tomorrow. China said it would hit back with necessary countermeasures if Trump goes ahead with the threat. The latest war of words comes as investors await the result of talks between the US and Chinese trade negotiators in Washington today. Their failure to strike a deal would have major implications for the global economy, with the IMF recently blaming higher tariffs as a reason for cutting forecasts for this year. V eteran developer John Burns looked set to end his 35-year tenure as Derwent London chief executive on a high, as he on Thursday defied Brexit gloom with a record quarter in the capital. Burns, who steps down next week after 35 years at the helm, said the company is in fantastic shape ahead of Britain leaving the EU. The FTSE 250 firm has agreed 17.2 million of lettings in the year to date, at rents more than 6% ahead of December estimates. New tenants include data group G-Research. Despite a backdrop of political turmoil at Westminster, Burns said: We had an exceptional first quarter it was a record. There is very good demand for quality space and firms are still expanding. Since the EU referendum we have done about 95 million of lettings. The deals come despite concerns that businesses would freeze or axe office moves amid the uncertainty. Burns, who will stay on to chair Derwent London, said of the wider market: The leasing side is terrific and there is still a wall of money coming in to invest, but some buyers are being more selective. Investors still want to be here, and companies still want to open here. H otels tycoon Surinder Arora on Thursday claimed the owners of Heathrow airport were using smoke and mirrors on government officials in a bid to block his own 14 billion plan to build Heathrows third runway and sixth terminal. The chief executive of Arora Group, the largest landowner at the airport, is spending 100 million with 300 staff working on a development consent order, the planning application required for major infrastructure projects. This would rival the plans of the owner of Britains biggest airport, Heathrow Airport Limited. After Parliament finally approved Heathrows expansion last June, it was assumed that HAL, majority owned by Spains building giant Ferrovial, would spearhead the project. But Arora and other aviation figures including IAG boss Willie Walsh have called for competitive tenders to keep eventual charges lower. Arora has hired US construction giant Bechtel and airports architects Corgan to work on a rival planning application that he expects to file next year. He said: HAL is telling the Department for Transport and the Civil Aviation Authority that, if Arora does anything, that will delay the project by five years. Its using smoke and mirrors. Its disingenuously spreading rumours, doing anything it can to avoid competition. The tycoon claimed he doesnt mind which firm runs what will be one of Britains biggest infrastructure projects as long as the bidding process is open to fair competition. He said: Its fine if it isnt me, as long as whoever delivers value for money wins Its about time the Heathrow monopoly is broken up. A Heathrow spokesman said: Many attempts have been made to engage with the Arora Group and it is wholly inaccurate to suggest otherwise. W estminster is febrile. The EU elections generate concern from those who had hoped that we would have already left and now have no idea what policy to put forward. Meanwhile the negotiations with Labour to bring about Brexit look unlikely to succeed. By the standards of mid-term local elections, the loss of more than 1,300 seats nationally for my party was also a heavy blow, particularly as our councillors play an important role in promoting Conservatism across the country. That Labour should also have lost seats at such a low point for us is, in turn, a telling reflection of the incoherence of its policies and the inadequacies of its leader. But it does not make our problems easier. Yet faced with these facts, the reaction of some of my Conservative colleagues has been to insist that the message from the electorate is that we should get on with Brexit. I accept that this is probably the opinion of many, but by no means all, of our party members. But from my mailbag it does not look like the view of my constituents, some 36,000 of whom voted Conservative at the last general election, and on whom we rely with other Conservative supporters to vote us into government. That they are frustrated and anxious about the political and policy-making paralysis that Brexit has created is clear, just as I pick up how much they would like the whole issue to go away. But that is a very different thing from demanding that the Government ploughs on with an agreement for leaving that looks every day to be less and less attractive. It may be argued that there are some parts of the country where this outcome is desired. But if this is the case, it does not explain why those parties that came out well from the elections were, largely, strong backers of remaining in the EU. There are, of course, some who demand a no-deal Brexit and threaten to vote for any party that will deliver it. But being angry and vociferous is not evidence of being in a majority. Dominic Grieve QC is MP for Beaconsfield and former attorney general / Matt Writtle So, in trying to reach a deal with Labour to take us out of the EU, the Government seems to me to be missing the message it has been getting. It seeks to solve its problems by the act of leaving the EU, when it is clear that this will take us immediately into a period of greater uncertainty and division as we argue over the future relationship. Leaving of itself solves nothing of this. We risk facing several years more of debate, which will absorb all our energies and distract us from domestic policy priorities. It also gives the impression of ignoring the lack of support for this type of outcome, which has been reflected in every opinion poll since the Prime Ministers deal with the EU was concluded. She has done her best to fulfil the 2016 referendum mandate in a way that reduces the risks Brexit poses for our economic wellbeing and national security. But the outcome looks a poor one that satisfies few. Tweaking it with Labour inputs is unlikely to make it more acceptable. "From my mailbag complete Brexit does not look like the view of my constituents, 36,000 of whom voted Tory" If the negotiations with Labour lead to no satisfactory outcome then the choices for us become stark. Coasting along to the deadline of October 31 will create uncertainties that will do even more damage to businesses and to our international standing than has already occurred. Whoever then has the misfortune of being prime minister will have to face up to the reality that a no-deal outcome is so unacceptable to the House of Commons that no government is likely to survive seeking to let it happen. That would then mean a general election and the blood-letting within both main parties that would precede it, as the manifestos are put together. Furthermore, on current evidence, there is a high risk that a general election will lead to another hung Parliament and resolve nothing. This is why I cannot see any way forward without a further referendum. I realise some colleagues hate the prospect of one, as they see it as divisive for our country and an admission of a collective failure of finding an acceptable way of implementing the 2016 result. But it will be nothing like as divisive as doing nothing. A three-question referendum putting the options of leaving with the PMs deal, leaving on World Trade Organisation (WTO) terms, or remaining in the EU, could bring a final resolution for us within a few months. Parliament can, and should, legislate to ensure that any leave option is immediately implemented. An alternative vote system, or a two-stage referendum, would ensure that the referendum is fair to the supporters of each outcome. It would be a true compromise. As a past attorney general I consider a WTO Brexit to be a disaster for us as, leaving aside the economic damage it will cause, it would trash our reputation for observing our international obligations as it must lead to our breaching the Good Friday Agreement with Ireland on the Irish border. But I have to accept that if it enjoys substantial support among the electorate it cannot be kept off the ballot paper. Those on all sides of the House of Commons, but particularly Conservatives, need to face up to reality. Paralysis in decision-making breeds frustration and contempt from the electorate, and provides the perfect seedbed for demagogues who fill the vacuum with populist simplicities, hatred of opposition and lies. If we want to keep our country together, failing to find a way out of this crisis is not an option. A rare bat population will be nurtured in a multi-million-pound project at an ancient woodland in east London. The National Lottery Heritage Fund has confirmed that it will donate 4.2 million to help protect threatened species and restore Hainault Forest Country Park in Redbridge to its former natural and wild state. The woodland, which was once a hunting forest, today has a lake and petting zoo and about 500,000 annual visitors. It will now be developed as a key haven for bats. It is home to 11 of the 18 UK species of bat and was where a barbastelle bat was spotted for the first time in London in over 50 years in 2017. Redbridge council says several more have been observed this year. The barbastelle has a pug-like face and large, wide ears, and is a priority species under the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. They tend to make homes in the crevices of old trees in mature forests, and their breeding roosts are only found in a handful of locations. Significant historical declines in bat populations date back to at least the start of the 20th century, according to the Bat Conservation Trust. Where to see wildlife in London 1 /12 Where to see wildlife in London Richmond Park . With its red and fallow deer, ancient oaks, and staggering variety of invertebrate species, Richmond Park stands out as an exceptional site for urban wildlife. At night, it is also the darkest and quietest place in London. Set across 2,500 acres, years of grazing by deer and careful management by the Crown Estate has made the park a unique urban oasis. The joy of spending an afternoon there is hardly a secret, meaning visitor numbers have increased to over five million per annum in recent years, adding to pressure on the parks natural environment. Getty Images Hampstead Heath Happily, London also provides habitats for the UKs much-loved but rarely seen native reptile species, including the common lizard, the slow worm, and Britains largest terrestrial reptile, the grass snake. Hampstead Heath is a particularly good place to find this species of snake as it hosts a breeding population which is thought to be increasing in number. Spread over 770 acres, the heath is one of Londons favourite wildlife spotting destinations, and has two Sites of Special Scientific Interest within its borders. For a relatively central location the heath is notable for its relative biodiversity, with 500 different species of fungus, one quarter of the UKs spider species and 18 species of dragonfly all finding a home here. Getty Images Woodberry Wetlands Woodberry Wetlands is another large reservoir and was opened to the public as an urban wetland by Sir David Attenborough in 2016. Both are free to enter, easy to get to, and offer some of the best opportunities to see wildlife in the city. Getty Images River Lea These two sites sit within the Lea Valley, where the most prominent geographical feature is Londons second largest river, the Lea. As well as being a great place for a weekend walk, and the subject of a song by Adele, the river has recently featured sightings of a common seal which appears near Bromley-by-Bow. Getty Images Barnes nature reserve South of the river, the Wildfowl and Wetland Trusts 100-acre site at Barnes has the added benefit of multi-storey bird hides to get a better view of the wildlife. Voted the countrys favourite nature reserve in a 2012 BBC Countryfile poll, WWT London sees a wide variety of bird and invertebrate visitors over the course of a year, with many of its most impressive visitors arriving for summer or winter migrations. This is an excellent reason to keep going back to these wonderful wetlands. Dudley Miles/Creative Commons The Gunnersbury Triangle Not all of these sites are where you might expect them to be. The Gunnersbury Triangle a 6.4-acre reserve managed by the London Wildlife Trust, is sat between three busy railway lines. As the first area to be protected for nature as a result of a public inquiry, it is an important site for the conservation movement as well as the wildlife that lives there. Today visitors have the chance to see bats, woodpeckers and the rare and charismatic stag beetle all within a few metres of the District and Overground lines. Andrew Ward/Flickr Isleworth Ait London Wildlife Trust operates monthly volunteering trips to the Isleworth Eyot, a tidal island owned by Thames Water, which has been designated a Site of Metropolitan Importance for the Conservation of Nature in part due to the presence of some rare and strange-sounding species, the German hairy snail and the two-lipped snail. Maxwell Hamilton/Wikimedia Commons Walthamstow Wetlands Walthamstow Wetlands is a giant reservoir in the North East that is now Europes largest urban wetland and a habitat for kingfishers and peregrines Tony waldron / Walthamstow reservoirs Regent's Canal To the alarm of some, the section of Regents Canal that runs past ZSL London Zoo is now home to a colony of Aesculapian snakes, a non-venomous invasive species which was thought to have been released by a private owner a few years ago. Native to southern Europe, these snakes are harmless to humans, but it is best not to try to pick them up as they are likely to defend themselves. Getty/Oli Scarff BCT spokesman Dr Joe Nunez-Mino said conservation action such as the new project was helping to stabilise bat numbers. He added: Investing in habitat protection benefits all wildlife and the environment which we rely on. The London Wildlife Trust and the London and Essex Bat Groups will be joining the project to offer fun bat walks and provide training for local enthusiasts on species-identification and ecological survey techniques. The National Lottery funding will also help ensure safe habitats for woodland owls, badgers, great crested newts and fallow deer within the forest. November 21 Mac DeMarco Indie rocks most endearing slacker returned earlier this year with a new album and now comes for a headline show at Ally Pally. Getty Images for Something in th Fyre Fest might be over, but it's not forgotten. The failed festival lives on in both Hulu and Netflix documentaries - and in festival-goers sharing their horror stories about pig tusk accidents and sea urchin encounters. But now, the festival might literally live on, at least according to the now-infamous organizer Billy McFarland. McFarland might be in prison, but that doesn't seem to have stopped him speaking out about Fyre 2.0. According to New York Magazine, McFarland is already plotting a major comeback. The Fyre Fest FEMA tents / Tyler Watson McFarland's girlfriend, Russian Instagram model Anastasia (Ana) Eremenko (not to be confused with Anna Delvey, who Mcfarland also has ties to) reached out to freelance editor Josh Raab with the story. Raab has previously worked with Al Gore and Garth Brooks, so adding McFarland to the mix would certainly make an eclectic CV. "Last month 2 documentaries came out about the FYRE FESTIVAL but unfortunately both misrepresented the real events and Billy would like to share his story," the message he received read. Raab then spoke to McFarland's girlfriend, who appeared in the Hulu documentary Fyre Fraud. She told him McFarland was writing a book, tentatively called Prometheus: The God of Fyre. He has reportedly been writing the pages in prison and mailing them to his girlfriend to type up. Raab chatted by phone and email with McFarland about his plans to self-publish a memoir. He named Jordan Belfort as his inspiration, who famously penned the memoir The Wolf of Wall Street. Perhaps Leonardo DiCaprio can also play McFarland. Fyre Festival attendees made their meals go viral (Netflix/Twitter) / Netflix / Twitter In an email to Raab, McFarland wrote, "Putting in terms of Wolf of Wall Street, the Festival will not be a one and done event... Its happening again, so the original story will lose the potential to be told and set the stage if its not done before the next events take place." E ach of us, in our lives, will go through several major crises. So Jared Diamond reminds us at the opening of his new book. How we deal with such crises, how we recognise them, resolve them, or just survive them will decide our future success and happiness. Nations also go through crises, and Diamond wonders whether the lessons that apply, and the answers that exist, in dealing with personal crises might not also apply to these. It is a fairly interesting question, the answer to which is (spoiler alert) kind of. But though it is a good enough hook, that isnt really the point of the book. Diamond (whose previous books have included the bestselling Guns, Germs and Steel) is really analysing how six countries got through major catastrophes. But there seems to be some authorial or publisher-originated concern over whether this subject is enough to grab the attention of us remaining book-buyers. I have rarely read a book perform more throat-clearing and self-justification in its opening. All of which is unnecessary because once this is out of the way the fare more than justifies itself. Diamond looks at national crises in Finland, Japan, Chile. Indonesia, Germany and Australia. Obviously some of this ground is more furrowed than others. How Germany emerged from the crisis of the last war is exceptionally well-covered terrain, whereas for most Western readers the way in which Indonesia has coped (or tried to sidestep) the mass killing of the Suharto era is something which will be less familiar. But in each case the difference between the well and less-well-known disappears. Diamond writes so well, and his frame of reference (across disciplines and languages) is so considerable, that almost everything he describes comes across as fresh. The chapter on Chile is one of the best things I have read on the country. Diamond absorbs the legitimate points of all sides, details the horrors of the Pinochet era, but is confident enough to describe which policies of that period have led Chile to become the comparative success story it is today. In an era in which history keeps being written as though it is politics by other means, it is a relief to read somebody weighing up situations so judiciously and honestly. One trend in non-fiction these days is for writers to inject themselves into the narrative. The dreaded I now seems to be positively demanded by non-fiction publishers. Yet while this is often simply narcissistic intrusion, Diamond (now in his eighties) has a lifetimes travel and experience that weaves necessarily into the narrative. After long spells living in these countries, or visiting and revisiting them over decades, he is able to notice some of the major changes which people living in them may either take for granted or incorrectly assume to be so obvious that they do not need stating. For instance, in his chapters on Japan, alongside his detailing of that countrys demographic and natural resource management crises among others he is not afraid to raise one of the most striking and uncomfortable facts about post-war Japan. Which is that in its schooling, culture and politics, it still has not fully contended with its actions in the Thirties and Forties. Certainly to nothing like the extent that Germany managed to do think of Willy Brandt spontaneously falling to his knees at the Warsaw Ghetto, which helped the country and its neighbours move past the catastrophe. Of course, on everybodys lips is whether or not America and indeed Britain are undergoing crises of the magnitude of those described in the main chapters here. Certainly, Diamond sees the US in particular as having to navigate some significant obstacles in the years ahead, including political polarisation and wealth inequality. And he justifiably worries about the dream of Americas first-world lifestyle being exported everywhere else. As he says, a person in the first world will consume 32 times as many natural resources as someone in the poorest societies. If the whole world ended up consuming as much as the first world does, then wed all be toast. But the political problem in societies such as ours is as Diamond notes that within the lifetimes of almost everyone reading this, our own per-capita consumption rates will be lower than they are now. How will societies like ours respond to that? Diamond says: The only question is whether we shall reach that outcome by planned methods of our choice, or by unpleasant methods not of our choice. None of which may sound like particularly cheering reading. But it is, because Diamond remains such a humane and human-interested guide through this rough terrain. Indeed although the book doesnt quite answer the questions it raises, and some of the books apparatus is unnecessary, having a guide like Diamond is something to be grateful for. Douglas Murrays The Strange Death of Europe: Immigration, Identity, Islam is published by Bloomsbury Continuum (9.99). At the event, which was held at the Royal Lancaster Hotel in West London, the magazine beat off extremely stiff competition from the Sunday Telegraph's Stella, the Observer's New Review, the Guardian's Feast, the Telegraph's Saturday magazine and the Sunday Times Magazine. Judges praised ES Magazine, which is distributed with the Evening Standard every Thursday and Friday, for its stimulating innovation and superb quality, adding: To produce a magazine of this standard is a real feat. Editor-in-chief Laura Weir praised the creativity of Londoners, which never fails to inspire us. LAlbereta Hotel, Erbusco, Italy - by Annabel Rivkin I have so much space and time, said no Londoner ever. I feel a sea breeze coursing through my cells with cleanness, continued that mythical Londoner, never. That is why this grubby, claustrophobic, borderline out-of-control Londoner headed for Henri Chenots clinic at lAlbereta, an hour outside Milan. For a bit of peace, solace and in search of that clean, detoxed feeling. And lets not get too worthy to drop a few pounds. Heres the vulgar bit: eight pounds in six days. Now thats out of the way, heres the how. Spa Espace Chenot is a centre of excellence when it comes to detox. It blends Western medicine with Chinese wisdom to clear blockages, re-energise cells and stimulate the body to eliminate accumulated toxins. Detail of the lobby at L'Albereta Relais & Chateaux Now I dont know about you, but science bores me. Lazy and childish, perhaps, but someone starts explaining scientific methodology and a monkey starts clapping in my head. Thats why people like me need to detox in tried and trusted environments. I have a tendency to become institutionalised, put on a dressing gown and hand myself over unquestioningly to whichever authority Im visiting. Its this floppiness that makes lAlberetas Espace Chenot ideal: it asks so little of you. No spiritual stuff (leave my chakras alone), no group activities (Londoner, remember): just a reassuringly consistent protocol and plenty of time to sleep, feel hungry and watch Netflix. I checked in to lAlbereta and out of life. That was the point. Theres plenty of time to sleep, feel hungry and watch Netflix. I checked in to Chenot and out of life. That was the point Every day begins with a hydrotherapy bath: many jets, powerful essential oils, hotter than Hades, profoundly relaxing and the first step to clean. This is also the first step in my institutionalisation, wearing, as you do, paper knickers that go saggy in water and a sweaty plastic shower cap. No room for dignity. You are merely a coddled inmate. Lovingly hauled from the tub by a vaguely nurse-y Italian lady, one is then painted with detoxifying hot clay, wrapped in plastic and left to marinate like a fish, ready for the oven. Once tenderised, you are shuffled to a rather sinister tiled room where, shivering in said baggy knickers and shower cap, you are hosed down. Particular attention is paid to bulgy bits. Later, a Chenot massage, a combination of cupping, rubbing and manipulation to light up the meridians; turbo-charge metabolism; support the organs. All of this. Every day. As a starting point. Food is sparing, vegan and delicious. A 36-hour fast happens mid-stay, combined with the powders, a magnesium-based laxative. Between the nibbling, floating and rubbing are more medical appointments: a full profile of blood-tests and bio-energetic diagnostics to smoke out problems or even the hint of a compromised system. I came out vaguely on top, but with a chromium deficiency. Ive been taking it ever since and am undoubtedly less tired and probably less forgetful. What was I saying? Oh yes, everything was bolstered by Vital-Mix drips: solutions laced with potent antioxidants, vitamins and minerals to shore up the bodys defences. Beyond that, it was plenty of sleep, a bit of Pilates, some strolls, a few headaches. And eight pounds in six days with minimal effort... In short, a massive relief. Annabel was a guest of lAlbereta; rooms from 224. Seven-day Advanced Detox Henri Chenot Programme, 3,060 (albereta.it) Les Sources de Caudalie, Martillac, France - By Rose Beer Ive never been very good at spa-ing. Presented with a sumptuous, well-scented treatment room, my mind begins to whir, not unwind. While others drift off, I want to leap up and grab my to-do list. Moronic, really, when youre naked, face-down, having an expensive massage at an exclusive spa. Les Sources hotel But as a frazzled Londoner, I was desperate for a last-minute out. I set my alarm for 3.45am, hot-footed it to Gatwick and arrived at Les Sources de Caudalie hotel and spa in Bordeaux at 9am. This is the kind of efficiency I like, plus the buffet was in full flow, tables bowing under bacon, eggs, pastries, cheese and a pear-and-frangipane tart. No detoxes or fasts in sight. Things were looking up. Set among the ancient vines of the 650-year-old Chateau Smith Haut Lafitte winery, theres worthy focus on the wholesome (endless bikes, hikes, home-grown veg and responsibly sourced meat), but theres no abstinence here. Food and, of course, wine is abundant, cooked up by two Michelin-starred chef Nicolas Masse at hotel restaurant La Grand Vigne, while La Table du Lavoir supplies delicious bistro-style fare and Rouge has all the oysters and pate your tummy can bear. Sounds awful, doesnt it? No one bans a glass of post-spa wine here. Theres no abstinence here. Food and, of course, wine is abundant And oh, the spa! A glorious, lofty wooden building with a vineyard-facing pool and barrel-shaped hot tub outside. Inside, 20 treatment rooms, a sauna, steam room, hydrotherapy pool and endless vinotherapists tending to your every need. The spa at Les Sources Caudalie is the pioneer of vinotherapy; products and treatments are based on grape seeds from the vineyard. These contain polyphenols, potent antioxidants that protect against ageing and preserve levels of skin-plumping hyaluronic acid. Its impressive stuff. Spa treatments also incorporate hot, mineral-rich spring water. Scrubbed with grape oil, brown sugar, finely milled grape seeds, honey and essential oils, followed by a spring water shower and superb massage, the remains of a dodgy London week are swooshed away. If youre looking to lose a few pounds, theres too much temptation at Les Sources. But drink, eat, spa, repeat was wonderfully restoring and I rolled home happy and healthy. I didnt think of my to-do list once. VANCOUVER, British Columbia, May 09, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Sharc International Systems Inc. (CSE: SHRC) (FSE: IWIA) (OTCQB: INTWF) ("SHARC" or "the Company") is pleased to announce that philanthropic entrepreneur and business executive Eleanor Chiu has consented to join the Company's Board of Directors. Eleanor Chiu, FCPA, FCA, ICD.D is seasoned executive with extensive board experience and expertise in strategic planning, finance, operational excellence, Audit and Risk, and Corporate Governance. Eleanor is a prominent leader in the business and philanthropic community in Calgary and she is genuinely passionate about ensuring her contributions make a significant difference. Her long list of volunteer roles has included sitting on the Mount Royal University Board of Governors, Alberta Childrens Hospital Board, and treasurer of Immigrant Access Fund Board. Eleanor and her husband Wayne are the founders of Trico Charitable Foundation and she serves as one of their directors. In her role as Trico Groups Chief Financial Officer, she helped build the Company from a small business in Calgary to one of Canadas 50 Best Managed Companies - a testament to her business acumen, and professional and personal strengths. She also held directorship of various public and private for-profit companies. Eleanors passion for entrepreneurship and keen awareness of the need for creative solutions to ensure sustainability in the non-profit sector has played a key role in setting the Trico Charitable Foundations mission - provoking innovation and building capacity in social entrepreneurship. The Bow Valley Colleges Chiu School of Business was named after their family. In 2016, she and her husband, Wayne Chiu, were the recipients of the CASE Benefactor Award that recognizes outstanding contributions to community colleges. Eleanor is a graduate of University of Calgary with a B.Comm, Finance and Accounting and she studied at The Chinese University of Hong Kong in Anthropology, received a ICD.D designation granted by the Institute of Corporate Directors, and is a Fellow of the Chartered Professional Accountants (FCPA). "I am honoured to be joining the Board of SHARC and offering the Company my expertise in strategic planning, corporate governance, and finance using my many years experience with public and private companies," said Ms. Chiu. "I see this as an opportunity to help SHARC engage with stakeholders, governments, and my network to expand the global reach of the SHARC brand." CEO SHARC International Systems, Mr. Lynn Mueller, commented: "We are very pleased that Ms. Chiu has agreed to join the Board, and we are delighted to welcome her to SHARC. Ms. Chiu has extensive experience in the business and philanthropic community, decades of experience in corporate governance and as a CFO and director of various public, and private community organizations including Hospitals, Universities and Foundations. She brings a wealth of knowledge to the board of SHARC, and I look forward to working closely with Eleanor." About SHARC International Systems SHARC International Systems Inc. is a world leader in thermal heat recovery. SHARC technology systems recycle thermal energy from wastewater, generating one of the most energy efficient and economical systems for heating, cooling & hot water preheating for commercial, residential and industrial buildings. SHARC is publicly traded in Canada (CSE: SHRC), the United States (OTCQB: INTWF) and Germany (Frankfurt: IWIA). Further information about the Company is available on our website at www.sharcenergy.com or under our profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD Lynn Mueller Chairman and Chief Executive Officer For further information, please contact: Investor Relations Jeff Walker The Howard Group Phone: (888) 221-0915 or (403) 221-0915 Email: jeff@howardgroupinc.com Jamie Hyland SHARC International Systems Inc. Telephone: (604) 442-2425 Email: jamie.hyland@sharcenergy.com Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Forward-Looking Statements Certain statements contained in this news release may constitute forward-looking information. Forward-looking information is often, but not always, identified by the use of words such as "anticipate", "plan", "estimate", "expect", "may", "will", "intend", "should", and similar expressions. Forward-looking information involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results or events to differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking information. SHARC's actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in this forward-looking information as a result of regulatory decisions, competitive factors in the industries in which the Company operates, prevailing economic conditions, and other factors, many of which are beyond the control of the Company. SHARC believes that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking information are reasonable, but no assurance can be given that these expectations will prove to be correct and such forward-looking information should not be unduly relied upon. Any forward-looking information contained in this news release represents the Company's expectations as of the date hereof, and is subject to change after such date. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable securities legislation. Its 9.45 on a Thursday morning and a young woman, her hair curled to perfection, is leaning across the Laura Mercier counter, slicking on dark red lipstick with a practised hand. Music is beginning to start up and freshly polished, lacquered surfaces gleam under the lights. The Harvey Nichols beauty department is preparing to open its doors for another day of makeovers, smokey eye demos and selling, selling, selling. Every assistant is wearing layered, airbrush-perfect make-up, advertising as many of their brands products as possible. The beauty landscape may have changed Instagram artists and YouTubers are more popular than ever but the original influencers are still the experts on the shop floor. Look no further than Fenty, Rihannas make-up line, where assistants such as Evie (left) are so revered theyre mobbed in the streets. And no blogger tutorial can replicate the 20-year relationships that Maxine has with her regular customers at Trish McEvoy. Every day, these experts share their tricks of the trade, from how to apply concealer (even the latest of nights can be blended away) to making eyes look bigger (gel liner, right in the lash line) and using eye cream (on the orbital bone, rather than under the eye). As Tea from Charlotte Tilbury tells me, theyre passionate about making people the most beautiful versions of themselves. After all, the UK beauty industry is worth nearly 14bn and these artists are its beating heart. Evie, 25, Fenty Ive been with Fenty since the beginning and had no idea how big it was going to be. Now, I get people stopping me in the street and saying, Youre the girl who works at Fenty, even without my staff T-shirt on. I can be shopping in Westfield and they still recognise me, and theyll know the exact products Im wearing. I went into Topshop a while ago and a girl there was asking me loads of questions about make-up. It can make it feel like the job never stops, but weve created a Fenty family here. When we first opened in Harvey Nichols in 2017, we had people crying because they found the right shade for their skin for the first time. I once had an old lady come in and we were looking at lipsticks; she loved Clapback, a deep navy. I remember her walking away and I was like, Oh my gosh, Ive just sent someones grandma home with blue lipstick, but she looked incredible. I thought wow, this really is for everyone. Lorenzo, 27, Marc Jacobs I have loads of make-up on. Im wearing primer, foundation, concealer, bronzer, contour you name it, Ive got it all. I started out as a hair stylist back home in Italy, but so many of my friends were make-up artists and drag queens, I helped them out and got a passion for make-up. I use Marc Jacobs products, but Im also a huge fan of drugstore make-up Im wearing drugstore brows right now and they look fabulous. Go to Boots and grab an NYX pencil (it has the best shades) and a Collection Colour clear mascara your brows will stay in place all day. I used to be an ugly duckling, so I love beauty beauty is confidence. You have to be you, your shameless self, you know? Because everyone is fabulous and that is my job: bringing you to your 2.0 version. Farida, 40, Sisley One of my clients is a princess from Dubai, in her late 60s. She comes to me religiously and Ive got her hooked on Sisley. Now she brings her whole family with the Bentley parked outside. I think the biggest sale I had from her was 65,000 over three days. A few days later I was in Starbucks on my lunch and I got a call I recognised the Dubai number and she asked me to do a consultation for her cousin. Within two hours, shed sent the driver round again and spent another 8,500. People spend so much money on make-up, myself included, but its not just about what you put on your skin. Its about lifestyle, too. Jay, 29, La Prairie Nowadays, people are looking after their skin more. They want the best results and the most amazing, top-range products to give them maximum results in the shortest time. Once, a woman stormed straight from the main entrance to my counter I thought she was going to do something to me. But she just said, What do you use? Whatever you use, give it to me. She literally stopped me and said, Lay out everything you use and Ill buy it today. I do two cleanses, use an eye cream, a pre-serum, a serum, SPF, moisturiser I have a pretty long routine, but Ive liked skincare since I was little. When I was 12, my mum bought me a pot of cream and I cherished it. Like me, shes a skincare junkie. Tea, 24, Charlotte Tilbury People want to get into this industry for a reason: its a very glamorous job. Ive always loved make-up and the beauty floor is my absolute favourite place, with all the lights and the glamour. I get taxis to and from work (not the most responsible!) and spend the day giving makeovers and spreading the Charlotte Tilbury love. Ive been a fan since day one, particularly of the Filmstar Bronze and Glow it gives you that sculpting like a movie star. My Harvey Nichols tip? The Fifth Floor Bar for a cocktail its so instagrammable. Louise, 36, Tom Ford The other day, Goldie Hawn called up she always visits us when shes in London. Its quite funny saying her name out loud because, I mean, theres only one Goldie. Ive been with Tom Ford for nine years and business manager here for four. Ill say hello to lots of people in our canteen because Ive been here a long time, but I have lunch with people from this half of the store Laura Mercier, Urban Decay and our sister brands, like Le Mer and MAC. We all hang out together. My secret is to spray perfume just before the doors open, so when people come in they can instantly smell Tom Ford. I try to spray something fresh so its not too offensive first thing in the morning. Maxine, 62, Trish McEvoy W hen Ashleigh Hinde, 30, launched her company, a direct-to-consumer contact lens start-up, she knew that she would have to make sacrifices. Or at least it initially felt like she would. Now, two years on and with her business shipping to the UK, US and mainland Europe, she has seen the light. I dont think of work and life as two separate things any more, she says. I get to do what I love, so it doesnt feel like giving up my free time. Dan Laughton, 25, is similarly sanguine about his non-existent work-life balance. Hes an assistant producer at travel website Culture Trip (with nearly 20 million visitors a month) and like Hinde, Laughton doesnt see juggling a full-time role and a burgeoning side-gig for an online magazine as sacrificing his social life. Evenings and weekends spent in front of a screen dont bother me. My role gives me purpose, and because there are so many routes to success now, putting in more hours than the next person is key. The traditional way of working used to be one direct career path within one company. Now, we can be our own brands, with no boundaries dictating what we can achieve. Were now turning to our jobs for the things weve historically sought from religions The more millennials you talk to, the more you find this attitude to be prevalent. We put in long hours because we all genuinely believe in what were working for, agrees 27-year-old Lana Cheaito-Hood, a community manager at Perlego, a start-up that gives students unlimited access to academic texts for 12 a month. After leaving my previous job, I looked for companies which had a clear mission. As more companies prioritise the happiness of their team, people will find the right balance of productivity and purpose. The fact that both Laughton and Cheaito-Hood use the word purpose to describe what they are looking for from a job is telling. Its certainly something that Derek Thompson, a writer for The Atlantic who earlier this year coined the much-repeated (and retweeted) term workism, believes: that people of his age nearly 33 are moving to make what they do for a living the centrepiece of our identities. The term he uses to describe this phenomenon, he stresses, isnt the same as workaholism, which is blind compulsion, and is more than careerism, which puts our jobs alongside other life goals. Were now turning to our jobs for meaning, community, transcendence, self-actualisation the things weve historically sought from traditional religions. Thompson's phrase has resonated perhaps because it encapsulates a seismic shift in millennials source of life satisfaction. While earlier generations may have found community and purpose via organised religion, 70 per cent of 16-to-29-year-olds in the UK identify with no religion, according to a study by St Marys University. At the same time, a Pew Research report into young peoples aspirations found that 95 per cent said having a career they enjoy would be extremely or very important to them as an adult. This ranked higher than any other priority, including helping people who are in need or getting married. Which begs the question: are purpose-seeking, passion-chasing millennials making jobs the new religion? Broad church: Second Home co-working space in Spitalfields / Iwan Baan Its easy to see why this could be the case. While previous generations may not have enjoyed the modern work landscape we have now, home ownership among young adults has collapsed. The Institute of Fiscal Studies says the chances of a millennial on a middle income owning a home in the UK have more than halved in the past two decades. Adam Henderson, founder of Millennial Mindset, a company that helps businesses adapt to the changing workforce, explains. Younger people are finding it more difficult to achieve the normal markers of adulthood home, marriage, kids so they dont have as many things outside of work taking up their time, he says. Millennials have a choice: they can sit in front of Netflix or throw themselves head-first into their careers. Experts agree that company culture, in Londons more progressive organisations at least, has revolutionised attitudes to work, helping to erode the nine-to-five mindset. Companies are increasingly focusing on employee culture and community, says Lindsey Pollak, author of The Remix: How to Lead and Succeed in the Multigenerational Workplace. Yes, people are practising less organised religion, but there is still a very human desire for connection and purpose. If youre not finding it in traditional religious institutions, look to your employers groups for women, people of colour or LGBTQ members of staff. Like the church, work has become a place to find commonalities. It also partly explains the rise of communal workspaces such as Second Home, that are designed to provide a more fulfilling working environment. Working in a corporate cubicle can be soul-destroying, says Second Homes founder Rohan Silva. But it doesnt have to be like that. We wanted a workspace full of inspiration, education and community support; things that are vital if people are going to do well in this new economy. Second Home has even installed a nursery in one of its London workspaces, to better support workers with families. But its not all down to this work-life integration. Weve grown up in world with an abundance of information, which means greater awareness of our impact on the world, says Henderson. Younger generations are thinking, Why are we doing this? Could we be doing it better? They see, via social media, companies doing things more ethically. You cant leave that knowledge at the door when you walk into work. F raudsters who duped victims out of 10 million to bankroll lavish lifestyles, including a shoe collection to rival Imelda Marcos, have been jailed for a total of more than 43 years. Businessman Andrew Chukwu, 35, was the ringleader of the online scam, hacking into email accounts and tricking individuals and businesses into transferring money. He splashed out on Rolex and Cartier watches and paid 90,000 to send his children to private school. His wife Grace Chukwu bought a vast collection of designer shoes from brands such as Jimmy Choo, Gucci and Dior. Mrs Chukwu, an NHS nurse, was also found to have more than 350,000 from the scam in her bank account, Blackfriars crown court heard. More than 200 separate frauds were carried out between 2014 and last year, with those responsible draining 10,112,312 from a host of victims including Liberal peer Lord Wrigglesworth, who lost 88,000. The fraudsters used computer malware to hack into email accounts, hunting for correspondence relating to high-value transactions. They would create and send spoof emails telling people to divert money into so-called mule bank accounts that they controlled. The funds would then be quickly moved on. Scotland Yard detectives found 165 mule bank accounts around the UK that had been used to carry out the scam. Prosecutor John Hardy said Andrew Chukwus business had an annual turnover of just 16,000, while his wife was on a modest NHS wage. You do not need me to tell you that working as a nurse in the NHS is an admirable occupation. But nor do you need me to tell you it is not, never has been, and cannot be the road to wealth and riches, he said. And these meagre incomes come nowhere near to explaining the lavish lifestyle which Andrew Chukwu and his wife enjoyed. When their home address was searched, aside from the paperwork relating to school fees, expensive watches including Rolexes and Cartiers were found, a large collection of shoes almost enough to rival that of the late Imelda Marcos was found, some with receipts showing they cost over 500 and there were receipts for high-end shopping in stores such as Harrods. Andrew Chukwu, from Loughton in Essex, was found guilty at a trial of conspiracy to commit fraud by false representation and money laundering, and was jailed for 10 years yesterday. His wife denied but was found guilty of money laundering, and was given a two-year conditional discharge. A lleged serial rapist Joseph McCann has been visited by a judge in prison after he refused to attend court. McCann is charged with 21 offences against eight alleged victims, aged between 11 and 71, across five police force areas between April 21 and May 5. He is alleged to have kidnapped some of his alleged victims, three of whom are under 18, before sexually abusing them. Chief Magistrate Emma Arbuthnot authorised the use of force to bring him before her after he refused to leave the cells at Westminster Magistrates' Court on Wednesday. But in what is believed to be an unprecedented move, she convened a private hearing inside Belmarsh prison on Thursday. In an update to reporters in a makeshift courtroom in a nearby conference centre after walking into the jail an hour and 20 minutes earlier, Ms Arbuthnot said the "shortish hearing" had been held in the prison's healthcare wing. She said McCann "turned his back on the court to begin with" and claimed the "officers stitched me up" before she remanded him in custody until a hearing at the Old Bailey on May 23. The hearing was told McCann, from Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, was aware of the charges against him. They are eight counts of rape; four counts of kidnap; two counts of false imprisonment; two counts of engaging in non-penetrative sexual activity; two counts of sexual assault by penetration; one count of inciting a boy under the age of 13 to engage in sexual activity; one count of engaging in non-penetrative sexual activity with a girl aged 13 to 15; and one count of assault occasioning actual bodily harm. McCann was arrested near Congleton, Cheshire, on Monday morning, just over two weeks after he is alleged to have abducted a woman in her twenties in Watford before raping her in her home. Two other women, who are in their twenties, were allegedly separately snatched off the street in Chingford and Edgware, London, on April 25 before being raped in a car. A string of other alleged offences are said to have occurred in Lancashire and Greater Manchester on May 5, including the rape of a 71-year-old woman and the sexual assault of a 13-year-old girl. A photo of McCann issued by the Met / PA McCann is yet to enter pleas to any of the charges, which were outlined to reporters following what is believed to be the first time such a magistrates' court hearing has been convened inside a prison. The judge, plus lawyers, journalists, police officers and court staff, took taxis to Belmarsh, 15 miles away from Westminster Magistrates' Court. The court crest was brought in an Argos carrier bag and placed on the conference table before Ms Arbuthnot told reporters: "I will be going into Belmarsh prison to see the defendant, Mr McCann. "I will be accompanied by the prosecutor, defence counsel and obviously the clerk. A marine police officer stopped searching the Thames for a victim of the London Bridge terror attack after concluding he was "probably lost", an inquest has heard. Police and lifeboats were deployed to the scene after Xavier Thomas, 45, was hit by the terrorists' hire van and catapulted into the Thames, the Old Bailey heard. Mr Thomas was the first victim of the attack, which ended just under 10 minutes later when three terrorists were shot dead near Borough Market. The Frenchman's body was not recovered until three days later. He died from immersion in the water. Xavier Thomas walking across London Bridge on the night of the terror attack in 2017. / PA Police constable Nicholas Bultitude and his crew carried out a "hasty search" having arrived first, some three minutes after reports of a person in the water. He later diverted away from the more structured search with lifeboats so he could warn crowds on the South Bank of the danger. Mr Bultitude said it was not practicable to seek approval for the move but there was evidence he informed the coastguard. Dominic Adamson, representing the family of Mr Thomas, questioned the officer's decision to abandon the river search shortly after gunshots were heard. Christine Delcros, girlfriend of victim Xavier Thomas, said she had a premonition the pair would be caught up in terror attacks. / Getty Images He said: "You hear the gunfire at 22.16 and so it would appear that really very shortly after that your attempts were distracted to deal with people on the riverside." The officer replied: "Yes. So I arrived on the scene. I carried out a search of the river and I was satisfied if anyone was in the river floating on the surface in the vicinity of London Bridge we would have found it. "When I made the decision, so far as I was concerned, if someone has gone in then tragically they are lost. I made the decision to depart from it." Mr Adamson asked: "You had already made the determination?" The witness replied: "Xavier had probably already been lost if there was no-one in the river. That was a factor in my thought process." London Bridge and Borough Market terrorist attack 1 /40 London Bridge and Borough Market terrorist attack Police and paramedics treat an injured person Daniel Sorabji/AFP/Getty Images A woman is helped to an ambulance at London Bridge Daniel Sorabji/AFP/Getty Images Armed police at London Bridge Dominic Lipinski/PA Wire Emergency personnel tend to wounded on London Bridge Yui Mok/PA Wire Daniel Sorabji/AFP/Getty Images Daniel Sorabji/AFP/Getty Images Debris and abandoned cars remain on London Bridge Chris J Ratcliffe/AFP/Getty Images People walking down Borough High Street Dominic Lipinski/PA Wire Armed Police officers on London Bridge Dominic Lipinski/PA Wire People flee along Borough High Street Dominic Lipinski/PA Wire Police officers outside the Barrowboy and Banker Public House on Borough High Street Dominic Lipinski/PA Wire Shocked onlookers in Borough High Street Dominic Lipinski/PA Wire Police sniffer dogs on London Bridge Dominic Lipinski/PA Wire Armed Police talk to members of the public outside London Bridge Hospital Dominic Lipinski/PA Wire People run down Borough High Street Dominic Lipinski/PA Wire A helicopter lands on London Bridge Dominic Lipinski/PA Wire An armed officer on London Bridge Dominic Lipinski/PA Wire Police officers on Borough High Street Dominic Lipinski/PA Wire Emergency personnel on London Bridge Dominic Lipinski/PA Wire Armed police on Borough High Street Dominic Lipinski/PA Wire Armed Police officer looks through his weapon on London Bridge Dominic Lipinski/PA Wire People run along Borough High Street Dominic Lipinski/PA Wire Police at the scene on Southwark Bridge Carl Court/Getty Images A paramedic rushes to the scene Dominic Lipinski/PA Wire An armed officer on London Bridge Dominic Lipinski/PA Wire A paramedic at the scene Dominic Lipinski/PA Wire Armed police on Borough High Street Dominic Lipinski/PA Wire Emergency personnel on London Bridge Yui Mok/PA Wire Police officers outside the Barrowboy and Banker Public House on Borough High Street Dominic Lipinski/PA Wire People are lead to safety away from London Bridge Carl Court/Getty Images The officer told the court conditions were "clear", visibility was "very good" and the tide was almost at its highest point. Mr Bultitude added: "I'm convinced if Xavier had been on the surface of the river, we would have recovered him." He insisted the "unfortunately named" hasty search was "not shoddy in any way". "We covered every inch of that river in a desperate attempt to recover anyone in there," he said. A manhunt is under way after a callous thug brutally robbed an 87-year-old woman and left her with a broken arm in south London. Detectives today released CCTV footage of a suspect following the broad daylight attack in Streatham. The Met said: This deplorable thug needs to be brought to justice. The unnamed victim was preparing to visit family later that day and had been buying flowers and prosecco for the occasion. She met a friend, another elderly lady, and the two of them walked home from Streatham High Road together. The woman's injuries following the attack / Met Police They parted ways when her friend reached her house. The victim continued walking, carrying her black handbag with the straps over her right forearm. She then felt a mighty blow from behind when she reached Pendennis Road, knocking her off her feet and onto the ground. From the floor, she glimpsed a male running away from her, heading back towards Streatham High Road. He was slim, dressed in black trousers and wore a black jacket with the hood up. She tried to get up, but realised she could not as she was in so much pain from her right arm. She then realised her handbag was missing and screamed for help. Her cries alerted a member of the public, who came out of his home and assisted her. A CCTV still of the suspect / Met Police The woman was taken to hospital where her right arm was found to be broken. She also need stitches on her right hand. Shortly after the theft, which happened at about 11.30am on March 16, a number of transactions were made using her stolen cards at shops in Streatham High Road. The handbag was later recovered by police in a nearby street. Det Cons Caroline Benjamin said: This was a horrible and cynical attack on a vulnerable and defenceless woman. The victim is now too scared to walk around on her own and was left unable to sleep in her bed due to the pain of her injuries. She prides herself on being a person who looks after other people, but she now has to rely on others to bring her meals and help her with her affairs. No one should ever be left feeling frightened to walk out in their own community. I am sure bringing the person responsible to justice will help allay her trauma. This deplorable thug needs to be brought to justice as soon as possible and I am appealing to the public to help. A teenage boy has been arrested on suspicion of murder after a 15-year-old aspiring musician was found stabbed to death in east London. Tashaun Aird was knifed in Somerford Grove in Hackney on the evening of Wednesday, May 1. Scotland Yard said a 16-year-old boy was arrested on Thursday morning and taken into custody at a north-west London police station. It comes as Romain Williams-Reid, 18, of Erith Crescent, Romford, was charged with Tashaun's murder, and grievous bodily harm with intent in relation to a second victim. Detectives believe the youngster was killed after a "fracas" with a group of youths in a park. Tashaun was found at the scene suffering from stab injuries and died at 9.49pm. A post-mortem examination gave the provisional cause of death as a stab wound to the lung. The Met's homicide and major crime command are investigating the incident, in which another 16-year-old was also stabbed in Somerford Grove. His injuries are not life-threatening and he has now been released from hospital. Police cordon put up between Stoke Newington Road and Somerford Grove in Hackney, east London, after the attack. / PA Detective Chief Inspector Helen Rance, leading the investigation, said: "Our investigation is making good progress and my officers are following a number of lines of inquiry, but we know there is more work for us to do in tracking down all of those involved in this horrific murder of a teenage boy who had his whole life in front of him. "We know that witnesses saw Tashaun and the 16-year-old victim being attacked by a group of youths in a park near Somerford Grove. "Tashaun was part of a group of about six when four suspects ran at them. We retain an open mind as to any motive behind this terrible incident. "It would have been quite a scene and following the confrontation everyone fled. "If you haven't spoken to police about what you saw, I need you to get in touch. "If you are worried about telling police, or even if you don't want to speak to us directly, I would urge you to use anonymous methods such as Crimestoppers where you could provide vital information without even having to give your name. "The people who killed Tashaun and seriously injured another 16-year-old boy must be removed from the community, and only you can help us do it." In a statement released through police on Friday, his family said: "Tashaun was family-orientated, he loved his family and we loved him dearly. "He was passionate about his music and he loved drawing. A police officer being investigated as part of a probe into claims of bullying, violence, racism and the use of drugs in a Met unit has a conviction for threatening to murder a female colleague. Pc James McLoughlin-Goodchild is one of 11 officers under investigation by a police watchdog over allegations surrounding a team formed to tackle crime in the West End. The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IPOC) announced last week that the claims originated from an inquiry probing separate claims that an officer had sex with a civilian in a room at Charing Cross police station in February 2018. The majority of the officers involved were deployed to a now-disbanded unit called the Impact Team launched in 2014. The only officer among the 11 to be suspended has been named by Scotland Yard as Pc McLoughlin-Goodchild. In a statement the Met said he was found guilty of improper use of a public electronic communications network at Hendon magistrates court in January. He now faces a disciplinary hearing tomorrow for gross misconduct in connection with this offence. The court heard Pc McLoughlin-Goodchild was under investigation for the sexual harassment of a colleague when he threatened to murder her and two other officers if they came to arrest him. He said he would stab them if they came to his house. The comments were made in a conversation with a sergeant who had rung him to discuss an upcoming gross misconduct hearing. During the conversation he is said to have referred to his colleagues and said: I will kill them, I will murder them if I see them, I know where they live and what cars they drive. If they come to my home and arrest me they are going to get stabbed. I will not go to prison alive. The misconduct hearing is expected to be held in secret as investigators continue to probe claims surrounding nine Pcs and two police sergeants who formed part of the Impact Team, set up to combat crime in the West Ends night-time economy. The IOPC said this week that the probe into an officer having sex in the police station had uncovered phone messages which suggest more widespread wrongdoing. The new allegations include violence towards women, bullying, deleting messages relevant to a criminal inquiry, racist language and behaviour and taking steroids. Some officers have undergone drug testing as part of the investigation. The allegations do not apply to all officers and it is not known how Pc McLoughlin-Goodchild is being investigated. Many of the allegations are believed to have stemmed from WhatsApp messages shared among a large group of police officers. Scotland Yard launched the Impact team after being inspired by a similar scheme in New Yorks Times Square which saw crime halved. Police say the team was disbanded because of a re-organisation unconnected to the current allegations. A breakthrough in finding the first drug with the potential to treat the deadliest type of childhood brain tumour was revealed today. Scientists at the Institute of Cancer Research, in Chelsea, hope a new type of drug could offer hope for some children diagnosed with the aggressive tumours, which typically cause death in nine months. Their studies have been part-funded by the Abbies Army charity, which was founded by Amanda and Ray Mifsud in memory of their daughter Abbie, who died from a DIPG (diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma) tumour aged six in 2011. They have raised more than 450,000 for research. There have been no new drugs licensed to treat brain cancer in adults or children for 20 years. DIPG is an inoperable cancer in the brainstem which has no cure. Surgery is impossible and radiotherapy is of limited effect. Abbie, from Ashford in Kent, died five months after diagnosis. The hope is that trials of the new drug, which has been shown in tests to shrink tumours and extend survival by 25 per cent, could start within two years. Mrs Mifsud said: Were so pleased to see some of the pre-clinical research work that Abbies Army has supported heading towards a biologically relevant treatment. Our hope very much is that further translation and combination studies will provide a successful therapy for this sub-set of DIPG patients in the near future. The drug targets a weakness in the ACVR1 gene to kill cancerous cells. The science company M4K (Medicines for Kids) Pharma will build on the work of the ICR and its international partners and expects to start trials in 2021. It could also work for stone man syndrome, a rare genetic disease where muscles and ligaments turn to bone. About 40 UK children a year are diagnosed with DIPG. The research is published in Communications Biology. Professor Chris Jones, of the ICR, said: Its simply not good enough that we can cure some cancers, but in others we have seen no progress in decades. We owe it to children and their families to do better. DIPG is a relatively rare childhood brain cancer, but it is always deadly. Learning more about the biology of DIPG, and trying to find ways to translate that knowledge into new treatments, has been a passion of mine for years. T he fiancee of the first victim of the London Bridge atrocity tearfully revealed she had premonitions of a terror attack in the hours before he was struck and killed. Christine Delcros was walking across the bridge with Xavier Thomas, 45, to visit The Shard when they were both hit by the terrorists rented van. While she survived her injuries, father-of-two Mr Thomas was flung into the river. His body was recovered three days later. Ms Delcros told the Old Bailey inquest into the terror victims deaths this morning: Just before we reached the bridge, I told him we shouldnt go there, we had to go somewhere else. He couldnt understand it. He said why are you saying this to me now. I told him I didnt know, Id just had so many premonitions about terror attacks from the day before. I could feel it. He started researching on his phone for another place [to go] ... then said Thats OK, you will see it, a magnificent view. He had planned everything properly. Not to disappoint him, I said OK. Ms Delcros broke down in tears as she described the moment they were hit by the van from behind, saying everything went dark. She added: I thought I had died. The French couple had arrived in London that morning for a short break, and had been planning to have cocktails at the top of the Shard. In the attack on June 3, 2017, extremists Khuram Butt, 27, Rachid Redouane, 30, and Youssef Zaghba, 22 drove the van across the bridge hitting pedestrians at random, before going on a knife rampage through Borough Market. Mr Thomas and Christine Archibald, 30, died after being hit on the bridge, while Alexandre Pigeard, 26, Sara Zelenak, 21, Kirsty Boden, 28, Sebastien Belanger, 36, James McMullan, 32, and Ignacio Echeverria, 39, were all stabbed to death. Detective Superintendent Becky Riggs said yesterday that Mr Thomas and Ms Archibald might not have died if barriers had been put in place on London Bridge. In the Westminster terror attack three months earlier, pedestrians had been injured and killed when a vehicle was driven along the pavement, and an official report had identified the lack of barriers as a weakness in combatting terrorism. BOSTON, MA, May 09, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- via NEWMEDIAWIRE -- AnnaBidiol, Inc d/b/a First Harbor Capital, Inc. (OTC Pink: ACBD) (or the "Company"), publicly-held Massachusetts-based holding company, announces the appointment of Adrian B. Diorio to the positions of Chief Marketing Officer (CMO), Chief Technology Officer (CTO) and Advertising Director, effective immediately. Under the direction of CEO, Ken Martin, and the companys Corporate Strategy Advisor, Kevin Charles Baer, Mr. Diorio will oversee all marketing and branding aspects of the Company. Mr. Diorios award-winning background has been featured in Entrepreneur Magazine: "Lesson to Online Brands: Looks Matter," Coldwell Banker Global Luxury: "Millennial-Driven Design," American Marketing Association Magazine: "Transparency Sells," McKnight's Magazine: "Marketplace Expert," The Boston Globe: "Ask the Expert and has been quoted in the college textbook, "Small Business Management: Launching & Growing Entrepreneurial Ventures. On behalf of our company, I am very pleased to welcome Adrian B. Diorio to the team. We believe that Adrians dynamic skillset and robust level of experience will strengthen our reach and contribute strongly to our ambitious growth. With his proven track record, we expect enhanced momentum in our continuing advancement, said Mr. Martin. Mr. Diorio brings over 15 years of startup experience in product development, marketing, brand management and e-commerce in consumer-centric industries such as health & beauty, healthcare and hospitality. Highlights of his career include launching a breakthrough skin care line made from locally-sourced, fresh fruit and vegetables known as Bryce Organics, which at the time competed amongst recognizable brands at Whole Foods, retail stores and high-end spas; the company is currently in the process of rebranding and changing its lineup to enter the forecasted $22B CBD market. Mr. Diorio, distinguished consultant, enables startups and small businesses to broaden their reach and bolster brand recognition. We believe we are excellently positioned for bridging the gap between undeveloped companies and the industry. We intend to capitalize on this window of opportunity, and strengthen our footprint, in order to deliver sustainable value for all shareholders, said Diorio. According to a recent article in Rolling Stone magazine, for years, experts have predicted that if the cannabis industry expands at its current rate, the American market will reach $20 billion by 2020. But it turns out that one market is spinning off into a mega-industry of its own: according to a new estimate from cannabis industry analysts the Brightfield Group, the hemp-CBD market alone could hit $22 billion by 2022. Unlike THC, the chemical compound that gives weed its signature effect, CBD has been shown to help with everything from PTSD and anxiety to MS and epilepsy, without psychoactive effects. We are a diversified holding company seeking to acquire emerging companies in key industries where rapid revenue growth and market share penetration are poised for significant gains. We intend to acquire, invest and partner with companies that have competent management teams with provable experience in their industry and have developed products or services that have a unique edge and strong growth in their marketplace. Visit: www.FirstHarborCapital.com Safe Harbor Provision: Cautionary statement for purposes of the "Safe Harbor" provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995: Information in this news release contains forward-looking statements that involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions. If such risks or uncertainties materialize or such assumptions prove incorrect, the results of the Company and its consolidated subsidiaries could differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements and assumptions. All statements other than statements of historical fact are statements that could be deemed forward-looking statements. Risks, uncertainties and assumptions include the execution and performance of contracts by the Company and its customers, suppliers and partners. The Company disclaims any obligation to update or revise statements contained in this news release based on new information or otherwise. 1-833-266-2833 M omentum branches have given a calculated V sign to the Jewish community by inviting suspended Labour MP Chris Williamson to their meetings, the Board of Deputies of British Jews says. Williamson, who was suspended by the Labour Party in February over anti-Semitism remarks, has appeared at Momentum events in Bedford and Thanet in the past few weeks. Though Momentum has won plaudits for tackling anti-Semitism in the Labour Party, the Board of Deputies said clearly the Bedford and Thanet branches have not received the memo. Momentum did not respond to requests for comment from The Londoner. However, form suggests that Momentum HQ does retain enough power over its branches to anger local members when there is disagreement. Last year a row broke out about candidate selection for Labour Parliamentary seats. Laura Rogers, the chair of a Momentum branch in Cornwall, said that since internal changes in November 2016 no member has had a vote on anything of any substance and local groups have no power at all. But Momentum appears not to have prevented Williamson appearing at its local branches. When contacted in April about Williamson appearing at the Bedford meeting, Momentum declined to comment. On Monday Williamson spoke at what he called an excellent Momentum event in Thanet. He was on a platform alongside Extinction Rebellion and pressure group Jewish Voice for Labour. Williamson, the MP for Derby North, was suspended for saying Labour had been too apologetic about anti-Semitism at a meeting with activists in Sheffield. He apologised himself once the comments became public. The Board of Deputies told The Londoner: This is a man who was suspended over anti-Semitism having baited the Jewish community multiple times. We expect Momentum explicitly to tell its branches not to invite speakers who have been suspended by the party something they should already know and understand. Relationship posers The US embassy threw open its doors for a pub quiz last night to mark US defence secretary Mike Pompeos visit. Up to 20 teams took part, with The Institute for Government triumphant, the Treasury in second place and No 10 in third. Besides the obligatory Game of Thrones round, there was a special relationship section featuring questions that included who coined the term special relationship? (A: Churchill), which president was first to visit the UK? (Wilson), how many MPs are called James? (eight) and how many female permanent secretaries are there? (six). --- Naked Brexit protester Dr Victoria Bateman has spent 10,000 for her nude portrait, painted by Anthony Connolly, to go on view at Girton College, Cambridge as a 40th birthday present to myself. At the Mall Galleries yesterday, Bateman told us Nude With Book is a defiant response to those who criticise women for using their bodies in ways that are deemed not socially acceptable. --- Poppy Delevingne, star of Skys Riviera, spent summers on the Cote dAzur as a child but says there was a lot less scandal than on Riviera. But her father, Charles, thinks Riviera isnt racy enough. Not enough tits and bums like Game of Thrones, he told The Londoner. Hancock joins the sisterhood Dave Benett/Getty Images for All Londons sisterhood gathered last night to celebrate the launch of the AllBright Mayfair, the latest clubhouse of the powerful womens network founded by entrepreneurs Debbie Wosskow and Anna Jones. The five-storey Maddox Street premises was packed with editors, businesswomen and investors, who enjoyed a performance by several-time Brit award winner Emeli Sande. Also celebrating the sisterhood was Health Secretary Matt Hancock, who enjoyed canapes by AllBrights chef Sabrina Gidda, one of the stars of the Great British Menu. Earlier on, the actor Olivia Wilde turned up for a photocall with Wosskow and Jones. Across town, Samantha Cameron joined Arizona Muse and Mary Charteris for a supper in celebration of Fenwicks collaboration with fashion writer Alice Naylor-Leyland, who hosted the event. Sophia Hesketh, daughter of former Tory peer and Grand Prix team owner Alexander Hesketh, was also in attendance. SW1A Islington is bristling after Jeremy Corbyn (below) tweeted his support for Spurs last night. Even an Arsenal fan can appreciate the astonishing performances by @LFC and @SpursOfficial, he posted. Two underdogs defying the odds to set up an all English Champions League Final. Congratulations and good luck to both teams in the final. #AJATOT. Jeremy, what are you doing, youre meant to be a Gooner? asked one fan. --- One detail in Johnny Mercers letter to Theresa May caught the eye. I, wrote Mercer, and far more erstwhile colleagues, have worked hard to give you options. Erstwhile means former... a Freudian slip? --- Vince Cable has a retirement plan. I want to go back to Blackpool and do more competitions, the former Strictly contestant says. Ballroom is what Im confident with but I do a good jive and Latin too. Theres one problem with Latin, though... Youve got to have good hips. Ukipper's ambition that didn't stand up Carl Benjamin, the Ukip candidate who joked about raping Labour MP Jess Phillips, allegedly once harboured ambitions of becoming a comedian. Not much of a consolation, tweeted comic Robert Webb, but dear Carl sent sketches on spec for That Mitchell and Webb Sound. They were, of course, s**t. Webb has since deleted the comments, including one tweet where he referred to Benjamin as a funniless warthog. Benjamin has denied sending in sketches on YouTube, fuming: I just tell funny jokes that I find funny. Quote of the day 'This isn't an issue about me' T ory leadership contender Amber Rudd will today set out her vision of a modern-day Conservative Party, saying it must support workers of all backgrounds. Ms Rudd, seen by many as a prime candidate in the race to succeed Theresa May, is expected to use a major speech in London to set out her ambition for the Tories to be the party for 21st century workers. She will become the latest Cabinet member to set out her credentials, following in the recent footsteps of the likes of Sajid Javid, Jeremy Hunt and Andrea Leadsom. The work and pensions secretary will say: As Conservatives, we want every person, no matter their background, to progress in the workplace and outperform what society says they should be able to do. Amber Rudd, pictured on Wednesday, will say: 'As Conservatives, we want every person, no matter their background, to progress in the workplace' / Tolga Akmen/AFP/Getty Images "These values are at the heart of what I will do at the DWP [Department for Work and Pensions]. "Automation is driving the decline of banal and repetitive tasks. So the jobs of the future are increasingly likely to be those that need human sensibilities: with personal relationships, qualitative judgment and creativity coming to the fore. "And there is a clear role for government to help people take advantages of these changes, and to help businesses create high-quality jobs. David Lidington: Changing the PM doesn't change the numbers She will say the government is working to support people who change careers, drawing on her own experience of "daunting" moves. "Changing career, perhaps several times, in the midst of working life can be daunting, particularly if you have a family to look after. I know, that's the path I took. Ms Rudd is viewed as a potential leadership contender representing the centrist, pro-EU wing of the Tory party. But her precarious 346 vote majority in Hastings and Rye could count against her in the race to replace Mrs May. Shadow work and pensions secretary Margaret Greenwood countered: "This speech completely ignores the reality that so many people in this country are trapped in poverty as a result of low-paid, insecure work. E sther McVey has announced she will stand for the Conservative leadership when Theresa May steps down. The former work and pensions secretary has become the third Tory to openly declare her leadership ambitions after Andrea Leadsom and Rory Stewart threw their hats into the ring. Ms McVey, who quit Cabinet in November over Mrs Mays Brexit deal, said the Conservative Party needs a leader who "believes in Brexit" and had "belief in the opportunities" it could bring. Asked whether she will stand in the battle to replace Mrs May, Ms McVey told TalkRadio: "I have always said quite clearly if I got enough support from my colleagues, yes I would. "Now people have come forward and I have got that support, so I will be going forward." Ms McVey said that Mrs May's departure should be handled in a "dignified and graceful" way. Esther McVey in the Commons / PA The news from the Leave-backing MP came as Justice Secretary David Gauke called for the party to steer away from populism, in what was seen as a bid to prevent a lurch to the right after Mrs May's departure. Work and Pensions Secretary Amber Rudd warned a no-deal prime minister would not be able to command a majority in the House of Commons, telling BBC2s Newsnight: Parliament is a hung Parliament at the moment. We know that it is an incredibly difficult group of MPs to influence and to control and to get a majority at the moment. So whoever makes the pitch is going to have to convince everybody that they can hold that majority together. Ms Rudd, who backed Remain in 2016, declined to say whether she would stand for leader and - in an apparent swipe at Jeremy Hunt and Dominic Raab - was critical of those who have "paraded" their spouses in the media in recent days. "This shouldn't be some Game of Thrones push for the Iron Throne," Ms Rudd told Newsnight. "We've all got important jobs to do. Let's deliver on those." Work and Pensions Secretary Amber Rudd / Getty Images As rivals limber up for the succession battle, Mr Gauke warned that populist policies would leave Britain poorer and more divided and put the Union at risk. Appealing to the party to stand by the banner of One Nation Conservatism, the Justice Secretary used a speech to the Onward thinktank to call for civil, open-minded and forward-looking politics. Although he is not often mentioned in lists of potential successors to Mrs May, Mr Gauke's comments will be seen as an intervention in the leadership contest to come after the Prime Minister steps down, as she has said she will once the first phase of Brexit is complete. Prime Minister Theresa May / REUTERS One of the Cabinet's most prominent opponents of a no-deal Brexit, Mr Gauke's speech is likely to be interpreted as a caution to the party not to choose a leader from among advocates of the hardest forms of EU withdrawal, like Boris Johnson or Dominic Raab. Speaking to BBC Radio 4's Today programme ahead of his speech, he urged Tory MPs to back Mrs May, saying that removing her as PM would not change the parliamentary arithmetic on Brexit. "I think it would be a mistake to have a change of leadership at this point," said Mr Gauke. When the Conservatives choose their next leader, the focus should be on "what is the role of the UK in a post-Brexit world and who is the best candidate to defeat Jeremy Corbyn", he added. Secretary of State for Justice David Gauke / REUTERS In his speech, Mr Gauke said the arguments of some Brexiteers has been "characterised by wishful thinking" which has "not survived the collision with reality". Voters' anger over the failure to deliver Brexit on time has been fuelled by some Leave supporters' over-simplification of the difficulties involved, he said. And he argued that the Government must put the economy at the heart of its Brexit strategy, discouraging a "culture war" over relations with Europe and ensuring that the UK maintains "strong trading relationships with our biggest trading partner". TODO: define component type apester In a challenge to populists' claim to be the heirs of the most successful Tory leader of modern times, he insisted that Margaret Thatcher led her party and her country by confronting populism, not embracing it. Mr Gauke warned that the growth of populism has driven a coarsening of political debate, with language becoming more extreme and civility dismissed as weakness. But he said that on the key political arguments, populists are "just plain wrong". Populist politics would "make us a poorer and a more divided nation" and fail to satisfy voters who feel disillusioned by the current system, he said. It involves an attack on the very institutions which underpin the UK's political stability and threatens to undermine the United Kingdom itself by manifesting itself in the guise of English nationalism, warned Mr Gauke. "Conservatism should be broad, not narrow; open, not closed; forward-looking, not yearning for a mythical past," he said. "It should be based on an appeal to the common-sense, pragmatic instincts of the majority. We should seek to unite, not divide. One Nation Conservatism. "Pragmatic, practical, reasonable but determined. That is the character of the British people. That is the character of Conservatism at its best." P hilip Hammond has an uncharacteristic spring in his step. For so long the Chancellor has unkindly been branded the Eeyore of Cabinet, a glum bookkeeper, joyless Remainer and punchbag for frustrated Brexiteers. But now he looks like a man with a more Tigger-like bounce. We are now a country that has choices, he boasted in his office in 11 Downing Street. We could choose to cut taxes a bit. We could choose to raise public spending. We could choose to get the debt down faster We havent had that luxury for a decade. The old Spreadsheet Phil would have stamped on would-be leader Dominic Raabs weekend promise of a penny off income tax. But the new Sunshine Phil expects a thank-you note. If a candidate three years ago had said, how about a penny off income tax?, they would have been dismissed as mad. Now it is a perfectly credible proposition, he said. Mr Hammond has been widely expected by MPs to leave the Treasury when Mrs May departs from No 10. But it turns out he is not yet ready to retire his blue pencil. Of course, there will be a leadership contest and we will see how that goes, he said when asked if he would retire with Mrs May. He doesnt blame Cabinet ministers such as Andrea Leadsom, Sajid Javid and Jeremy Hunt for throwing their hats in the ring before Mrs May has even set a date. To be fair the Prime Minister having been clear that she will stand down once she has completed the first phase of Brexit, it is not surprising that various colleagues are making known their interest in the job, he said. My message to hardline Brexiteers who want May out is, Remember that salvation lies in your hands Whom will he support? Dont know yet. That will depend on what they tell me about their programme. The recipient of Mr Hammonds endorsement will be, he says, someone who is prepared to take a pragmatic view, possibly someone who has learned to accept things that might not have been our first choice and someone who can articulate the opportunities available to the UK. He refused to discuss names, but some might speculate the description fits Jeremy Hunt or Sajid Javid. Having been foreign secretary, defence secretary and transport secretary, there are few senior positions Mr Hammond has not occupied. Would he serve in any department other than the Treasury? No thank you, he replied crisply. So, he aims to stay put. For the Tories to move on, he stressed, a Withdrawal Agreement must be passed by Parliament. It would not only unlock the 26 billion of no-deal insurance and turn it into potential public spending or tax cuts, but would also trigger a leadership contest. A new leader could be elected before the party conference if the deal is voted through, he suggested. Once we start the leadership contest, getting it done as quickly as possible would be positive because this isnt just about the leader of the party, its about the Prime Minister, he said, ruling out an extended 2005-style contest. Asked if Mrs May could remain in No 10 up to the party conference and beyond, Mr Hammond simply replied: The Prime Ministers role is to get the deal done and then start the [leadership] process. But Mr Hammond assured Brexiteers impatient to take over that they would not be cheated out of a swift contest. I think you will find that the Prime Minister is as good as her word: once the deal is done, she will start the process. His message to hardline Brexiteers who want Mrs May out is, Remember that salvation lies in your hands. He added: Vote for the deal and its done and we can move on. A successful chancellor would have a strong claim to the Tory leadership but Mr Hammond ruled himself out. Why? I try to be realistic about this, he said, pointing out that the electorate is made up of Conservative party members. Not our voters, but our members, he said. My position, freely and loudly expressed over the years on the Brexit debate, would not find favour with many of those members. Mr Hammond had just returned early from a G7 summit in Paris to take part in the negotiations between No 10 and Jeremy Corbyns team. Was there any chemistry with John McDonnell, his opposite number? I take McDonnell at face value. He is not a friend and he never will be because he has a set of political views that I find completely abhorrent, totally toxic, but I think he is straightforward in his discussions with me its always been pretty blunt. Could he personally sign up to Labours demand for a permanent customs union? The Chancellor said the crucial question was whether the proposal could achieve a parliamentary majority. If we are going to make any progress, we are going to have to find a compromise, he said. He recently described a second referendum as a coherent proposition does he think the mandate for Brexit has faded after three years? We know people have changed their minds in both directions, he said. It would be a brave man that speculated on what the result [of another referendum] might look like. But the issue is less about the mandate than the need to find a way out of the impasse. Could a confirmatory ballot emerge from the talks? Mr Hammond was doubtful, pointing to divisions in the Labour Party. In future, after May has gone, the next leader will have to deal with the reality that Parliament wants to oversee the next phase of negotiations. He did not believe a Canada-style free trade agreement was the most favoured route in Parliament. Mr Hammond said he was very worried about the two-year delay and spiralling costs of Londons 15 billion Crossrail project, particularly the impact on Transport for Londons strained finances. He pulled rank on Liz Truss, his number two at the Treasury, who recently proposed scrapping HS2 to save 60 billion. Sometimes you have to make big strategic judgments and HS2 is such a strategic judgment, he ruled. It will change the economic geography of the UK. With the search for a new Bank of England governor under way, Mr Hammond said he would like a diverse list of candidates, including women. But he stressed the appointment would be made purely on merit, with a deep understanding of the financial services sector essential. A big prize for the nation, he said, would be to increase the National Living Wage over the OECD definition of low pay, which is two thirds of median earnings, or 9.61 an hour. Confirming he is drawn to the idea, he said: It would be a great achievement to eliminate low pay and over time that must be our objective. B ritish holidaymakers face paying an extra 73 million for flights each year after a Government review today recommended a levy on passengers to cover the costs of airlines going bust. Transport Secretary Chris Grayling called for action after the collapse of Monarch Airlines in October 2017, when the taxpayer had to pick up the 60 million bill for getting 85,000 passengers flown home. The huge cost of what was the UKs largest peacetime repatriation operation led to the Airline Insolvency Review, which today called for a new Flight Protection Scheme. The suggested surcharge would add nearly 50p to the cost of a ticket out of the UK with the money going into a pot to pay for passengers on failed airlines to be brought home. With 146 million passengers departing from UK airports in 2018, according to the Civil Aviation Authority, the total extra cost for outbound flights would be around 73 million. The plans come after two of the largest airline failures in UK history - the collapse of Monarch, plus Flybmi in February - caused chaos for thousands of passengers. But airlines swiftly condemned the move, suggesting the Government should dip into the 3 billion it already collects throught Air Passenger Duty (APD) and warning that higher ticket costs could force more vulnerable airlines to collapse. Willie Walsh, the boss of IAG - owner of British Airways, Aer Lingus and Iberia - said: Airline passengers should not be charged a levy to bail out other carriers when they go bust. Tim Alderslade, chief executive of Airlines UK which represents major carriers including easyJet, Flybe, Jet2, Norwegian, Ryanair, Thomas Cook, Tui and Virgin Atlantic, warned: Fifty pence may not sound much but airlines operate on wafer thin margins and passengers already pay over 3 billion each year to the Treasury in APD. This is not the time to make it more expensive to travel. The chances of booking with an airline that goes bust remain extremely small. When its happened, airlines have demonstrated their commitment to bringing passengers home through voluntary rescue fares which worked extremely well and without any taxpayer liability. T housands of holidaymakers are set to face huge disruption to their travel plans as a French air-traffic control strike gets underway. Up to 75,000 passengers will be affected as hundreds of flights are cancelled from airlines including British Airways, Ryanair and EasyJet. Workers for DSNA, the French air traffic control agency, walked out at 7pm local time on Wednesday in protest over president Emmanuel Macron's plans to reform working conditions. Here is everything you need to know about the strike and what to do if you are affected: Why are people striking? The strike is part of a wider protest by public servants across France on Thursday. Workers are opposed to new working conditions introduced by Mr Macron, which could result in the loss of 120,000 jobs over the next few years. Unions have hit out at the public sector cost-cutting reforms and strikes are taking place nationwide. Air-traffic controllers and engineers began the strike at 7pm (local time) on Wednesday May 8. The 35-hour strike is expect to last until 6am on Friday, May 10. What impact will it have? EasyJet flights have been affected / PA Airlines have been warned that up to 75,000 travellers have been affected across Europe. British Airways, Ryanair and EasyJet have been forced to cancel or delay flights with a number of other airlines also affected. France is a popular route for overflights and it is expected the strike will cause widespread disruption with cuts of 50 per cent expected. Around 65 per cent of EasyJet flights operate through French airspace. According to the Independent, the Marseille Area Control Centre which serves south east France and a section of the Mediterranean is likely to be affected the most. The newspaper also claims that Paris Orly, Lyon, Marseille and Toulouse airports will also be heavily affected and airlines have been told to reduce the number of flights into and out of these airports by 30 per cent. It is thought that at least 550 flights could be affected by the strike. EasyJet told the Standard that 136 flights have been cancelled, with 10 flights to and from the UK affected. The airline wrote: "Like all airlines, our flights to and from France, as well as those flying in French airspace, could be affected. "Also flights that do not operate through France may still be affected as 65 per cent of easyJet flights operate through French air space and may be delayed before arriving for your flight. "Although this situation is outside of our control we would like to apologise to any affected passengers for the inconvenience caused." The Independent says that 36 British Airways flights have been cancelled, while Ryanair and Air France have also cancelled some. BA told the Standard: "Yet again the French Air Traffic Control trade unions are causing unnecessary frustration and disruption for customers at a busy time of year. "We continue to urge the French Government and the trade unions to resolve their issues so that customers can go on their holidays and business trips without these regular threats of strike action hanging over them. "We are doing our best to reduce the levels of disruption and we are offering flexible customer options. We will be using larger aircraft, wherever we can, to help customers from cancelled flights get to where they need to be. We are advising customers to keep checking on ba.com for the latest information about their flights." Ryanair said: "We sincerely apologise for any inconvenience caused by these ATC strikes. We will do everything we can to minimise your disruption, which is sadly beyond our control." What to do if my flight has been cancelled? N ew Royal baby, Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor, will become a Prince with his parents blessing once his grandfather Prince Charles is King, the Evening Standard has learned. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have agreed that their son will also be given the title His Royal Highness which is his right as the grandson of a reigning monarch through the male line. The Sussexes have chosen not to give their children courtesy titles at this time, however, on the change of reign the George V convention would apply, a senior source told the Evening Standard. This relates to a royal decree issued by the Queens grandfather in 1917 that limits the number of grand royal titles. Instagram debut: The first post garnered more than one million likes within an hour / Chris Allerton/@SussexRoyal For Master Archie to have been made a prince at birth like the children of The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, his cousins Prince George, Princess Charlotte, it would have required the Queens to have issued letters patent immediately. The Evening Standard understands that Harry and Meghan are happy for their son - who is 7th in line to the throne - to take his rightful title in due course but decided to keep things simple for now. When Prince Charles becomes King, all children and grandchildren on the direct male line of the Sovereign automatically gain HRH status. The George V ruling does not apply to grandchildren of a reigning monarchs daughters - which is why Princess Anne, The Princess Royals children Zara Tindall and Peter Phillips are not styled HRH. First look at Meghan and Harry's baby boy Baby Archies parents the Duke and Duchess of Sussex decided not to give him a courtesy title at this time and cleared it with the Queen, who met her eighth great grandchild for the first time at Windsor Castle yesterday. An image posted on Instagram showed the monarch happily smiling at the newborn alongside Prince Philip and Meghans mother Doria Ragland. The choice of Archie confounded bookies who had it at 100/1. Queen Elizabeth II issued new Letters Patent on December 31, 2012 declaring that all of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridges children will have the title of Royal Highness and be styled Princes and Princesses. The document states, The Queen has been pleased by Letters Patent under the Great Seal of the Realm dated 31 December 2012 to declare that all the children of the eldest son of The Prince of Wales should have and enjoy the style, title and attribute of Royal Highness with the titular dignity of Prince or Princess prefixed to their Christian names or with such other titles of honour. The Queens Letters Patent revised King George Vs 1917 decree that only the eldest son of the Prince of Waless eldest son was entitled to be styled His Royal Highness and a Prince. According to this document, the daughters and younger sons of the Prince of Waless eldest son were to be styled as children of a Duke. These ducal titles would change to royal titles once the Prince of Wales became King. TODO: define component type apester The Duke and Duchess of Sussex Baby Announcement - In pictures 1 /26 The Duke and Duchess of Sussex Baby Announcement - In pictures Prince Harry in front of the horses, apparently named George and Sir John, as he announces the birth PA A framed notice of birth was placed outside Buckingham Palace AFP/Getty Images Royal fans celebrate outside Windsor Castle PA the Instagram account of Meghan Markle and Prince Harry, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, reads "It's a Boy !". AFP/Getty Images Television crews at work outside Windsor Castle following the news of the birth of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex's new baby boy PA People gather outside Buckingham Palace to take pictures on their mobile phones of the notice placed on an easel in the palace's forecourt in London to formally announce the birth of a baby boy to the Duke and Duchess of Sussex PA Prince Harry speaks after the Duchess of Sussex gave birth to a baby boy Reuters The moment Prince Harry thanks the horses People celebrate outside Windsor Castle after Britain's Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex gave birth to a boy Reuters A television journalist (L) works as Royal wellwishers celebrate outside of near Windsor Castle in Windsor, AFP/Getty Images Town crier Tony Appleton announces the birth of baby boy to Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex and Meghan Duchess of Sussex, outside Windsor Castle EPA Reuters Britain's Prince Harry speaks after Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, gave birth to a baby boy, at Windsor Castle Reuters Footmen Stephen Kelly and Sarah Thompson bring out the easel in the forecourt of Buckingham Palace in London to formally announce the birth of a baby boy to the Duke and Duchess of Sussex PA Memorabilia is pictured as people celebrate outside Windsor Castle after Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex gave birth to a boy Reuters Pedestrians walk past Windsor Castle AFP/Getty Images People gather outside Buckingham Palace to take pictures on their mobile phones of the notice placed on an easel in the palace's forecourt in London to formally announce the birth of a baby boy to the Duke and Duchess of Sussex PA A sign is placed outside the Prince Harry pub after the announcement of the birth of a baby boy to Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex and Meghan Duchess of Sussex in Windsor EPA The BT Tower displays a message in celebration of the birth of Prince Harry, and Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex's new baby boy AP Iconic London landmark known as the London Eye is seen illuminated in red, white and blue to celebrate the birth of Harry and Meghan's baby boy Getty Images The Queens decree ensured that if the Duke and Duchess of Cambridges eldest child had been a daughter, she would be styled a Princess rather than a Lady, as in Princess Charlottes case. Buckingham Palace has said on the matter of titles, While there are courtesy titles that Their Royal Highnesses The Duke and Duchess of Sussex could apply to their son, they have chosen not to give him a courtesy title at this time. So he will be known as Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor. After all the excitement of the birth on Monday new father Harry went back to work today on an overseas visit to the Hague to promote his Invictus Games. The event marks the one-year anniversary until the 2020 Invictus Games. A rchie will be the most popular name in the UK by 2025, according to new research. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex introduced their newborn son Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor to the world on Wednesday, sparking a flood of interest in the name. Researchers at family history website Ancestry.co.uk measured its popularity by analysing historic census records and data from the Office of National Statistics (ONS). They concluded that Archie is likely to be one of the most popular names in the UK by the time Megan and Harrys son starts nursery school in 2022. By, 2025, it could become the countrys favourite. The name Charlotte shot up in popularity by 13 places after the birth of William and Kate's daughter in 2015 (HRH The Duchess of Cambridge ) / HRH The Duchess of Cambridge Their findings revealed the influence royal baby names have on the nations preferences. After the birth of Princess Charlotte in 2015, for example, the name shot up 13 places in terms of popularity over the following two years. Similarly, 'George' rose seven places in the four years after the princes birth in 2013. Looking to Archies father, Ancestry found that the name Harry swelled in popularity by 592 per cent after the Duke of Sussexs birth. 'William' rose by 88 per cent in the decade after the Duke of Cambridge was born. First glimpse of Prince Harry and Meghan's newborn son - In pictures 1 /28 First glimpse of Prince Harry and Meghan's newborn son - In pictures The Duke and Duchess of Sussex gave the world its first glimpse of the royal baby PA The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are joined by her mother, Doria Ragland, as they show their new son, born Monday and named as Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor, to the Queen Elizabeth II and the Duke of Edinburgh at Windsor Castle Chris Allerton/SussexRoyal/PA The Duke and Duchess of Sussex with their baby son, who was born last month Dominic Lipinski/PA Meghan said Harry and her son were the "best two guys in the world" Dominic Lipinski/PA Their son was born in the small hours of Monday morning PA The Queen is due to be the first royal to meet the baby PA The Duchess said the birth of the child was "magic" PA Dominic Lipinski/PA The Duke and Duchess of Sussex revealed the name of their son on Wednesday as Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor PA PA Dominic Lipinski/PA Dominic Lipinski/PA Dominic Lipinski/PA Dominic Lipinski/PA Dominic Lipinski/PA Dominic Lipinski/PA Dominic Lipinski/PA Dominic Lipinski/PA Dominic Lipinski/PA Sky News Sky News Birth registers dating as far back as the 1800s revealed similar trends, with the names of Queen Victorias children each increasing in popularity by at least 100 per cent. Its amazing to see how much these historic records shine a light on the royal familys enduring influence on the nation, said Ancestry spokesman Russell James. T he owners of about 170 private tower blocks encased in Grenfell-style cladding were today warned by the Government to get on with removing it. He said: This is about getting on with this, people have no excuse not to get on with this. We will be writing out to all the relevant building owners and underlining the availability for the benefit of leaseholders. While some building owners have been swift to act, and I thank them for doing the right thing, I am now calling time on the delay tactics of others. If these reckless building owners wont act, the government will, he told BBC Radio 4s Today programme. There are thought to be 170 blocks across the country with ACM cladding. It comes after almost two years of inaction from some building owners, some of whom tried to make leaseholders foot the bill. While council-owned blocks were having their cladding removed through a 400 million Government fund, those living in the private sector felt they were not getting equal treatment. They have depended on the goodwill of freeholders, who currently have no legal duty to remove it. Campaigners welcomed the 200 million fund, with Grenfell United, a group of survivors and the bereaved of the Grenfell Tower fire, saying it offered hope to people feeling at risk at home. Grenfell United said: This result is a testament to residents themselves, in social and private blocks, who refused to be ignored. The truth is we should never have had to fight for it. It is not a quick fix so we ask the Government to also consider what financial support can be put in place while residents continue with night watches and wait for remediation works to start. Residents in one of the London blocks affected said the fund was good news but feared it could be inadequate. Simon Daniels, 46, chair of the residents association at the Paddington Walk development, said people had lived in fear in a building that could burn down at any moment since the cladding was discovered in the wake of the Grenfell Tower disaster in summer 2017. Leaseholders have already paid out thousands of pounds each towards the 3.5 million estimated cost of the developments cladding replacement, and face paying even more to fund new fire safety measures. He said: It is good news, but it would appear to be a 200 million fund to cover more than 100 buildings, so you dont have to be a maths genius to work out that that is not going to go terribly far. While it is very gratifying that the government is paying attention and taking some action, obviously that is just tempered with the questions that instantly come up about the actual nature of the funding. Seventy-two people died when fire destroyed Grenfell Tower in one of the UKs worst modern disasters. A round 46 million of Australias new $50 notes have been printed and circulated with a typo, the countrys Reserve Bank has admitted. The blunder was pointed out publicly on Thursday, when a listener to Triple M radio sent a magnified photo of the Reserve Bank of Australia's (RBA) new note, highlighting the misspelling of "responsibility". The word was written without the final i three times, with it reading "responsibilty". The $50 carries a head shot of Indigenous writer and inventor David Unaipon on one side, and Edith Cowan, Australias first female member of parliament, on the other. The typo on the note appears in an excerpt of Cowan's first ever speech to Western Australia's parliament. The featured quote reads: "It is a great responsibilty (sic) to be the only woman here and I want to emphasise the necessity which exists for other women being here." The $50 is Australia's most widely circulated note, accounting for nearly half the total value of all other banknotes in use, according to the RBA. The new and improved note was rolled out in October 2018, boasting a range of advanced features designed to prevent counterfeiting and improve accessibility for the visually impaired. The RBA said it was aware of the error and would be correcting the spelling at the next print run, but stressed that the current notes should still be accepted as legal tender. "These banknotes are legal tender and can continue to be used as normal," a spokeswoman for the central bank told news agency Reuters in an emailed statement. Meeting with First Secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Cuba, General Raul Castro in Havana on May 8, Vinh said that the bilateral defence ties have been bolstered in a practical manner over the past time, contributing to regional and global peace as well as improving defence capacity in each nation. The cooperation has been intensified in various sectors like military education-training, military healthcare, and defence industry, he stressed, adding that both defence ministries are implementing a dossier on the 60-year history of Vietnam-Cuba defence partnership to popularise the friendship and solidarity between the two countries and defence ministries in particular. Raul, for his part, spoke highly of the bilateral defence collaboration, recommending that both sides further cooperation to better their defence capacity, helping safeguard peace and build prosperous nations. He said he strongly supports the establishment of a dossier highlighting Vietnam-Cuba defence ties in the past six decades. Vinh was leading a delegation of the Defence Ministry to make an official visit to Cuba from May 4-8. On May 6, the Vietnamese delegation had a defence policy dialogue with the Ministry of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Cuba. English Italian Mestre (Venice), 9 May 2019 - The Board of Directors of Banca IFIS met today under the chairmanship of Sebastien Egon Furstenberg and approved the results for the first quarter of 2019. My initial impression is that the Bank is a dynamic, innovative, and profitable entity relying on a cohesive team of young and capable managers with complementing professional experiencesexplains Banca IFIS Group CEO Luciano Colombini. The quarterly earnings show 130 million Euro in net banking incomeand all the Bank's business areas contributed to this result. Banca IFIS boasts a one-of-a-kind business model with a strong level of diversification and specialisation in different market segments. Our strategy shall focus on growing the various business units while continuing to place special emphasis on the quality of our assets as well as operating costs. In the NPL segment, we will keep on buying portfolios and improving collection processes, leveraging also the recent acquisition of FBSwhich will allow us to act as buyers and servicers of NPL portfolios on behalf of third parties, including in the secured and corporate segment. In the Enterprises segment, we will expand our offering of financing and services to Small and Medium Enterprises. We are extremely well positioned to continue growing in the coming quarters, as the positions subject to Garnishment Orders and those in the Secured and Corporate category of the NPL segment show: their Gross Book Value rose by over 5% in the last quarter alone. The Enterprises segment, which serves SMEsrepresenting one of the most attractive markets in terms of growth and returnsis well diversified in terms of sectors, geographies, and customersadds the CEO. The net profit for the first quarter of 2019 amounted to 30 million Euro, while the cost of credit stabilised after the one-off provisions set aside for some individual positions in 2018. We must now place special emphasis on the cost/income ratio and operating costs without affecting the investments in digital innovation, technology, and the NPL segment that are necessary to ensure our growth in the future. We continue paying the utmost attention to the Bank's capital requirements. In the first three months of 2019, the CET1 ratio was essentially unchanged from the previous quarter at 10,29%, even when including 41 million Euro in goodwill arising from the acquisition of FBS. The CET1 ratio remains comfortably above the 2019 SREP requirement of 8,12%. Total capital stood at 14,02%, compared to a SREP requirement of 12,5%. The Bank is thus well positioned to move forward on the growth path of the next few years, to which I will give my best effortsand I am happy to be part of such a dynamic group. The controlling shareholder has reaffirmed support for the Banks strategy and growth concludes Mr Colombini. Highlights RECLASSIFIED DATA1 Below are the operating highlights of the Banca IFIS Group for the first quarter of 2019. Net banking income Consolidated net banking income amounted to 130,1 million Euro, -6,7% compared to the prior-year period. The NPL segment reported 62,6 million Euro in net banking income (65,1 million Euro at 31 March 2018, -3,8%), as the positive contribution associated with the consolidation of the FBS Group was offset by the introduction of the pre-garnishment order collective model and the recalibration of the collective model used for non-judicial operations. The Enterprises Segment was down 15,3% year-on-year: the growth reported by the Trade Receivables business area (+1,8% compared to 31 March 2018) and the Leasing business area (+9,2% from 31 March 2018) was offset by the inevitably lower contribution from the reversal PPA3 in the Corporate Banking area compared to the prior-year period. Net impairment losses1 Net credit risk losses totalled 13,1 million Euro (compared to 11,0 million Euro at 31 March 2018) and were entirely related to the Enterprises segment. The year-on-year increase in provisions set aside during the first quarter of 2019 by the Enterprises segment were in part associated with the additional provisions on unlikely to pay in the construction segment, which became necessary because of the events that transpired during the period. Operating costs Operating costs totalled 74,4 million Euro (73,4 million Euro at 31 March 2018, +1,3%). The cost/income ratio stood at 57,2%, compared to 52,7% at 31 March 2018. Personnel expenses totalled 31,4 million Euro, up 17,2% (26,8 million Euro at 31 March 2018). The Group's employees numbered 1.764 at 31 March 2019, up 14,5% from the prior-year period (1.541 units). 100 employees were acquired following the inclusion of the subsidiaries FBS S.p.A. and FBS Real Estate in the Group's scope. Other administrative expenses amounted to 43,3 million Euro, down 7,1% from 46,6 million Euro at 31 March 2018. The change during the period stemmed from the increase in costs associated with the acquisition of the FBS Group, which was more than offset by the decline in registration fees paid for the judicial debt collection actions concerning the NPL segment's receivables: these fell from 10,7 million Euro at 31 March 2018 to 5,6 million Euro at 31 March 2019. Group net profit for the period The Group net profit for the period totalled 29,9 million Euro at 31 March 2019, down 20,9% from 37,9 million Euro at 31 March 2018. Focus on individual segments As for the contribution of individual segments to the operating and financial results at 31 March 2019, here below are the highlights: The Enterprises segment's net banking income , which accounted for 51,2% of the total, amounted to 66,6 million at 31 March 2018, down 15,3% from 78,6 million Euro in the prior-year period, as the growth of the business areas included within this segment was offset by the lower contribution of the reversal PPA 3 in Corporate Banking (13,4 million Euro at 31 March 2019 compared to 19,0 million Euro at 31 March 2018, -29,2%). The Enterprises segment's receivables totalled 5.954,8 million Euro at 31 March 2019, up 0,6% from 31 December 2018. , which accounted for 51,2% of the total, amounted to 66,6 million at 31 March 2018, down 15,3% from 78,6 million Euro in the prior-year period, as the growth of the business areas included within this segment was offset by the lower contribution of the reversal PPA in Corporate Banking (13,4 million Euro at 31 March 2019 compared to 19,0 million Euro at 31 March 2018, -29,2%). The Enterprises segment's receivables totalled 5.954,8 million Euro at 31 March 2019, up 0,6% from 31 December 2018. Specifically, the Trade Receivables area generated 40,6 million Euro in net banking income (39,9 million Euro at 31 March 2018, +1,8%); turnover rose to 3,4 billion Euro (+19,1% from 31 March 2018), and the number of corporate customers was up 11,0% compared to the prior year. Outstanding loans in the Trade Receivables area totalled 3,6 million Euro ,+0,3% from 31 December 2018. area generated 40,6 million Euro in net banking income (39,9 million Euro at 31 March 2018, +1,8%); turnover rose to 3,4 billion Euro (+19,1% from 31 March 2018), and the number of corporate customers was up 11,0% compared to the prior year. Outstanding loans in the Trade Receivables area totalled 3,6 million Euro ,+0,3% from 31 December 2018. Corporate Banking generated 9,4 million Euro in net banking income, down 60,1% largely because of the 7,8 million Euro decline in assets measured at Fair Value as well as the lower contribution of the reversal PPA 3 (13,4 million Euro vs 19,0 million Euro at 31 March 2018). This decline was to be expected, as the underlying loans are gradually reaching maturity; in addition, it was fuelled by the early repayments occurred in the prior-year period. Outstanding loans in the Corporate Banking segment amounted to 805,5 million Euro, +0,9% from the end of 2018 . generated 9,4 million Euro in net banking income, down 60,1% largely because of the 7,8 million Euro decline in assets measured at Fair Value as well as the lower contribution of the reversal PPA (13,4 million Euro vs 19,0 million Euro at 31 March 2018). This decline was to be expected, as the underlying loans are gradually reaching maturity; in addition, it was fuelled by the early repayments occurred in the prior-year period. Outstanding loans in the Corporate Banking segment amounted to 805,5 million Euro, +0,9% from the end of 2018 . In the first quarter, the Leasing business area generated 13,6 million Euro in net banking income, up 9,2% year-on-yearlargely thanks to the lower impact of brokerage commission expense. In the first three months of 2019, the segment extended 165,1 million Euro in new financing (-3,9% year-on-year), largely in the autolease sector (-10,4% from the first quarter of 2018). Loans to customers totalled 1.412,3 million Euro, +0,9% from 31 December 2018. The NPL segment 1 , dedicated to acquiring and converting non-performing loans into sustainable and mostly unsecured settlement plans, reported 62,6 million Euro in net banking income (65,1 million Euro at 31 March 2018, -3,8%). However, the following factors must be taken into account in order to properly compare the results: The contribution of the FBS Group to Net profit from financial activities, amounting to 8,2 million Euro in the first quarter of 2019. The negative 9 million Euro impact of the introduction of the new pre-garnishment order collective model in the first quarter of 2019, as the measurement models accounted for inefficiencies of the external courts (so-called haircut) that did not affect the first quarter of 2018 only because of timing. The approximately 3 million Euro positive impact on the first quarter of 2018 arising mainly from the recalibration of the models, which was carried out to account for the changes in both cash receipts and the characteristics of the portfolios acquired over time. No such impact was recognised in the first quarter of 2019. , dedicated to acquiring and converting non-performing loans into sustainable and mostly unsecured settlement plans, reported 62,6 million Euro in (65,1 million Euro at 31 March 2018, -3,8%). However, the following factors must be taken into account in order to properly compare the results: Excluding these factors, net profit from financial activities would have risen from 62,1 million Euro to 63,5 million Euro at 31 March 2019 (+2,1%). This growth was fuelled by the strong performance in the management of existing portfolios, resulting in better payment arrangements, as well as the higher number of writs and attachments obtained. At 31 March 2019, the nominal amount of outstanding receivables totalled 16,6 billion Euro, and their net value was 1.123,4 million Euro. Cash receipts rose from 40,1 million Euro in the first quarter of 2018 to 56,7 million Euro at 31 March 2019. Estimated Remaining Collections (ERC) amounted to approximately 2,4 billion Euro. Funding In the first quarter of 2019, the Group continued with its strategy to consolidate wholesale funding, so as to strike a better balance with retail funding: the first half of the year saw a number of transactions with institutional investors on the debt market. At 31 March 2019, the Group's funding structure was as follows: 64,2% customers; 12,8% ABS; 12,2% debt securities; 8,9% TLTRO; 1,9% other. As for the assets backing the collateralisation of part of the funding, at 31 March 2019 the Group held 423 million Euro worth of government bonds (fair value: 411,3 million Euro, +0,2% from 31 December 2018) with limited duration, classified as financial assets at fair value through other comprehensive income. Below is the breakdown of net non-performing exposures measured at amortised cost in the Enterprises segment (totalling 307,3 million Euro): net bad loans amounted to 67,8 million Euro, essentially unchanged from 67,9 million Euro at 31 December 2018 (-0,1%); the net bad-loan ratio was 1,1%, in line with 31 December 2018. The coverage ratio stood at 73,1% (73,0% at 31 December 2018); the balance of net unlikely to pay was 150,2 million Euro, +1,9% from 147,5 million Euro at 31 December 2018; the coverage ratio rose to 38,0% from 36,9% at 31 December 2018; was 150,2 million Euro, +1,9% from 147,5 million Euro at 31 December 2018; the coverage ratio rose to 38,0% from 36,9% at 31 December 2018; net non-performing past due exposures totalled 89,2 million Euro, compared to 95,0 million Euro at 31 December 2018 (-6,1%). The coverage ratio of net non-performing past due exposures stood at 11,3%, in line with 31 December 2018. Overall, the Enterprises segment reported a Gross NPE Ratio of 9,5% (9,5% at 31 December 2018) and a Net NPE Ratio of 5,2% (5,2% at 31 December 2018). Equity and ratios At 31 March 2019, the Group's consolidated equity totalled 1.489,3 million Euro, up 2,1% from 1.459,0 million Euro at 31 December 2018. At 31 March 2019, the consolidated Common Equity Tier 1 (CET1) and Total Own Funds Ratio including the prudential consolidation within La Scogliera amounted to 10,29% and 14,02%, respectively, compared to 10,30% and 14,01% at 31 December 2018. At 31 March 2019, the consolidated Common Equity Tier 1 (CET1) and Total Own Funds Ratio of the Banca IFIS Group alone, excluding the effect of the consolidation within the Parent Company La Scogliera4, amounted to 13,53% and 18,03%, respectively, compared to 13,74% and 18,20% at 31 December 2018. In addition, please note that on 28 January 2019 the Bank of Italy required the Banca IFIS Group to adopt the following consolidated capital requirements in 2019, including a 2,5% capital conservation buffer: common equity tier 1 (CET 1) capital ratio of 8,12%, with a required minimum of 5,62%; Tier 1 capital ratio of 10,0%, with a required minimum of 7,5%; Total Capital ratio of 12,5%, with a required minimum of 10,0%. At 31 March 2019, the Banca IFIS Group already met the above prudential requirements. Significant events occurred in the period The Banca IFIS Group transparently and timely discloses information to the market, constantly publishing information on significant events through press releases. Please visit the Investor Relations and Media Press sections of the institutional website www.bancaifis.it to view all press releases. Below is a summary of the most significant events occurred during the period. Closing of 90% acquisition of FBS S.p.A. On 7 January 2019, the Group finalised the acquisition of FBS S.p.A., Italy's fourth-largest player specialised in servicing property-backed and corporate NPLs. The deal, announced on 15 May 2018 and funded entirely through Banca IFIS's liquidity, involved the acquisition of 90% of FBS for 58,5 million Euro in cash. Paolo Strocchi, a majority shareholder in FBS since its foundation, stays on as CEO and shareholder along with FBS's top management, retaining a 10% stake in the company that is the subject of put and call options entered into by the top management and Banca IFISwith a number of exercise windows over a period ranging from 2 to 4 years and prices varying according to, among other things, FBS S.p.A.'s performance. Significant subsequent events The Shareholders Meeting approves the 2018 financial statements. New Board appointed, Luciano Colombini takes over as CEO The Ordinary Shareholders Meeting of Banca IFIS S.p.A. held on 19 April 2019 approved the financial statements for the year 2018 as well as the distribution of a 1,05 Euro dividend per ordinary share with ex-dividend date (coupon no. 22) on 29 April 2019, record date on 30 April 2019, and payment date on 2 May 2019. The Meeting resolved to increase the number of directors from 9 to 12 and appointed the members of the Board for the three-year period from 2019 to 2021. Luciano Colombini was appointed Banca IFIS S.p.A.'s CEO effective 19 April 2019. Finally, during the meeting held today, the Board of Directors of Banca IFIS S.p.A. assessed the eligibility requirements, provided by art. 26 of Legislative Decree 1 September 1993, no. 385 (IBA), of the members of the Board of Directors and Board of Statutory Auditors appointed by the shareholders meeting on 19 April 2019, pursuant to the applicable laws and regulations and taking into account the outcomes of the activities carried out in this respect by the Appointments Committee. Following such activity, the Board of Directors has positively ascertained the possession of the eligibility requirements pursuant to art. 26 IBA by all the members of the Board of Directors and Board of Statutory Auditors, also on the basis of the declarations of the abovementioned persons, the available information, as well as the documentation provided to the Board of Directors members by the relevant internal offices of Banca IFIS S.p.A. Declaration by the Manager charged with preparing the Companys financial reports Mariacristina Taormina, Manager charged with preparing the financial reports of Banca IFIS S.p.A, pursuant to the provisions of Art. 154 bis, paragraph 2 of Italian Legislative Decree no.58 dated 24 February 1998, declares that the accounting information included into this press release corresponds to the related books and accounting records. 1 Net impairment losses on receivables of the NPL segment were entirely reclassified to interest receivable and similar income to present more fairly this particular business, as they represent an integral part of the overall return on the investment. 2 Consolidated own funds, risk-weighted assets and solvency ratios at 31 March 2019 were calculated based on the regulatory principles set out in Directive 2013/36/EU (CRD IV) and Regulation (EU) 575/2013 (CRR) dated 26 June 2013, which were transposed in the Bank of Italy's Circulars no. 285 and 286 of 17 December 2013. Article 19 of the CRR requires consolidating Banca IFIS within the Holding La Scogliera for prudential purposes. For the sake of disclosure, we calculated the same indicators without including the effects of the consolidation within La Scogliera. Therefore, the reported total own funds refers only to the scope of the Banca IFIS Group, thus excluding the effects of the prudential consolidation within the parent La Scogliera S.p.A. 3 Reversal PPA means the breakdown of the difference between the fair value as measured in the business combination and the carrying amount of the receivables recognised by the former GE Capital Interbanca Groupacquired on 30 November 2016over time. 4 The reported total own funds refers only to the scope of the Banca IFIS Group, thus excluding the effects of the prudential consolidation within the parent La Scogliera S.p.A. Consolidated own funds, risk-weighted assets and solvency ratios at 31 March 2019 were calculated based on the regulatory principles set out in Directive 2013/36/EU (CRD IV) and Regulation (EU) 575/2013 (CRR) dated 26 June 2013, which were transposed in the Bank of Italy's Circulars no. 285 and 286 of 17 December 2013. Article 19 of the CRR requires to include the unconsolidated holding of the banking Group in equity for the purposes of prudential consolidation. Reclassified Financial Statements Net impairment losses on receivables of the NPL segment were entirely reclassified to Interest receivable and similar income to present more fairly this particular business for which net impairment losses represent an integral part of the return on the investment. Reclassified Consolidated Statement of Financial Position ASSETS (in thousands of Euro) AMOUNTS AT CHANGE 31.03.2019 31.12.2018 ABSOLUTE % Cash and cash equivalents 72 48 24 50,0% Financial assets held for trading through profit or loss 26.426 29.809 (3.383) (11,3)% Financial assets mandatorily measured at fair value through profit or loss 174.508 163.845 10.663 6,5% Financial assets at fair value through other comprehensive income 432.901 432.094 807 0,2% Receivables due from banks measured at amortised cost 996.333 590.595 405.738 68,7% Loans to customers measured at amortised cost 7.322.130 7.313.972 8.158 0,1% Equity investments 6 - 6 n.a. Property, plant and equipment 145.869 130.650 15.219 11,6% Intangible assets 65.855 23.277 42.578 182,9% of which: - - - - - goodwill 42.263 1.515 40.748 n.s. Tax assets: 396.280 395.084 1.196 0,3% a) current 47.063 46.820 243 0,5% b) deferred 349.217 348.264 953 0,3% Other assets 303.252 302.887 365 0,1% Total assets 9.863.632 9.382.261 481.371 5,1% LIABILITIES AND EQUITY (in thousands of Euro) AMOUNTS AT CHANGE 31.03.2019 31.12.2018 ABSOLUTE % Due to banks 844.790 785.393 59.397 7,6% Due to customers 5.021.481 4.673.299 348.182 7,5% Debt securities issued 1.955.400 1.979.002 (23.602) (1,2)% Financial liabilities held for trading 30.254 31.155 (901) (2,9)% Tax liabilities: 63.066 52.722 10.344 19,6% a) current 23.225 13.367 9.858 73,7% b) deferred 39.841 39.355 486 1,2% Other liabilities 422.549 367.872 54.677 14,9% Post-employment benefits 9.878 8.039 1.839 22,9% Provisions for risks and charges 26.913 25.779 1.134 4,4% Valuation reserves (14.362) (14.606) 244 (1,7)% Reserves 1.315.418 1.168.543 146.875 12,6% Share premiums 102.116 102.116 - 0,0% Share capital 53.811 53.811 - 0,0% Treasury shares (-) (3.103) (3.103) - 0,0% Equity attributable to non-controlling interests (+ / -) 5.501 5.476 25 0,5% Profit (loss) for the period (+/-) 29.920 146.763 (116.843) (79,6)% Total liabilities and equity 9.863.632 9.382.261 481.371 5,1% Reclassified Consolidated Income Statement ITEMS (in thousands of Euro) AMOUNTS AT CHANGE 31.03.2019 31.03.2018 ABSOLUTE % Net interest income 115.264 119.480 (4.216) (3,5)% Net commission income 23.828 19.820 4.008 20,2% Other components of net banking income (8.983) 78 (9.061) n.s. Net banking income 130.109 139.378 (9.269) (6,7)% Net credit risk losses/reversals (13.088) (10.957) (2.131) 19,4% Net profit (loss) from financial activities 117.021 128.421 (11.400) (8,9)% Administrative expenses: (74.768) (73.452) (1.316) 1,8% a) personnel expenses (31.447) (26.827) (4.620) 17,2% b) other administrative expenses (43.321) (46.625) 3.304 (7,1)% Net allocations to provisions for risks and charges (2.512) (2.806) 294 (10,5)% Net impairment losses/reversals on property, plant and equipment and intangible assets (4.062) (2.809) (1.253) 44,6% Other operating income/expenses 6.978 5.646 1.332 23,6% Operating costs (74.364) (73.421) (943) 1,3% Pre-tax profit (loss) for the year from continuing operations 42.657 55.000 (12.343) (22,4)% Income taxes for the period relating to continuing operations (12.716) (17.146) 4.430 (25,8)% Profit (Loss) for the period 29.941 37.854 (7.913) (20,9)% Profit (Loss) for the period attributable to non-controlling interests 21 - 21 n.a. Profit (loss) for the period attributable to the Parent company 29.920 37.854 (7.934) (21,0)% OWN FUNDS AND CAPITAL ADEQUACY RATIOS (in thousands of Euro) AMOUNTS AT 31.03.2019 31.12.2018 Common equity Tier 1 Capital (CET1) 916.545 924.285 Tier 1 Capital (T1) 972.389 980.463 Total own funds 1.249.484 1.257.711 Total RWA 8.909.641 8.974.645 Common Equity Tier 1 Ratio 10,29% 10,30% Tier 1 Capital Ratio 10,91% 10,92% Ratio - Total Own Funds 14,02% 14,01% Common Equity Tier 1, Tier 1 Capital, and total Own Funds do not include the profits generated at 31 March 2019 by the Banking Group. OWN FUNDS AND CAPITAL ADEQUACY RATIOS: BANCA IFIS BANKING GROUP SCOPE (in thousands of Euro) AMOUNTS AT 31.03.2019 31.12.2018 Common equity Tier 1 Capital (CET1) 1.204.005 1.231.537 Tier 1 Capital (T1) 1.204.005 1.231.537 Total own funds 1.604.431 1.631.858 Total RWA 8.900.603 8.966.099 Common Equity Tier 1 Ratio 13,53% 13,74% Tier 1 Capital Ratio 13,53% 13,74% Total Own Funds Capital Ratio 18,03% 18,20% Common Equity Tier 1, Tier 1 Capital, and total Own Funds do not include the profits generated at 31 March 2019 by the Banking Group. Attachment A teenage suspect charged in connection with a school shooting in Colorado has appeared in court. Devon Erickson, 18, made his first court appearance on Wednesday, shackled at the waist with his hands cuffed. He and another student, a juvenile who has not been named by authorities, are accused of killing one schoolboy at the Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths School in Highlands Ranch, after opening fire on their fellow classmates. Kendrick Castillo has been named as the victim who died, after he is said to have leapt from his desk in a literature class to charge at the gunmen. Devon Erickson, 18, appeared in court on Wednesday / REUTERS Erickson appeared in court with his head bowed, nodding frequently to the judges questions. He is scheduled to return to court on Friday, when charges are expected to be filed. Eight other pupils were injured after shots were fired at the school in Denver on Tuesday. Police line the street outside a recreation centre where students were reunited with their parents after the shooting / AP The shooting at Highlands Ranch came nearly three weeks after neighbouring Littleton marked the grim 20th anniversary of the Columbine school massacre that killed 13 people. Douglas County Sheriff Tony Spurlock said two gunmen walked into the school in a suburb of Denver and began shooting at pupils in two classrooms. Within minutes, deputies at a nearby sheriff's department substation entered the school and arrested the two suspects after a struggle. Another teenager preparing to enter the Marines also tackled the gunmen. An armed security guard then confronted and detained one of them. Authorities said these acts of bravery helped minimise the bloodshed from the attack, which also wounded eight people. Mr Spurlock said: "We're going to hear about very heroic things that have taken place at the school. The alleged attackers were identified by law enforcement officials as Erickson and a younger student. D onald Trump has defended attorney general William Barr following a Capitol Hill vote to hold Americas top lawman in contempt of Congress. The vote by the Democrat-led House judiciary committee was the first official congressional move to punish an administration official in the stand-off over the Mueller report. But Mr Trump hailed Mr Barr as a great attorney general at a rally in Panama City, Florida. He also blasted Democrats as a disgrace for continuing investigations into his presidency following special counsel Robert Muellers report into his election campaigns alleged links with Russia. While Mr Mueller did not make a decision in his report on whether or not the President should face a criminal prosecution, Mr Barr ruled there was insufficient evidence to bring obstruction charges over alleged attempts to impede the inquiry. Mr Trump told supporters: After two years, nothing. No collusion. And now the Democrats we have a great attorney general now the Democrats are saying, We want more. Now they say the Mueller report, we want to start all over again. It is a disgrace. The judiciary committee voted along party lines by 24-16 to recommend that the House of Representatives holds Mr Barr in contempt for failing to hand over an unredacted copy of Mr Muellers report. Committee chairman Jerry Nadler said after the vote: Our fight is about defending the rights of Congress, as an independent branch, to hold the president, any president, accountable. It was not clear when the House will vote on the contempt charge but if it is approved, Democrat leaders will try to force the White House to hand over the full report through the courts. D onald Trump laughed and joked when a supporter suggested shooting immigrants to stop them crossing the US southern border. Mr Trump complained about an influx of migrants entering the country via its border with Mexico as he addressed the crowds at a campaign rally in Panama City, Florida on Wednesday. You have 15,000 people marching up, and you have hundreds and hundreds of people, and you have two or three border security people that are brave and great and dont forget, we dont let them and we cant let them use weapons, we cant, other countries do, we cant, I would never do that. "But how do you stop these people?" the 72-year-old added. Trump received rapturous applause from supporters at the rally in Panama City Beach, Florida / AP Shoot em! a voice from the crowd immediately responded. The president paused, chuckled and flickered a side-smile as the audience erupted into laughter. Thats only in the panhandle you can get away with that stuff, he joked, using the informal term for northwestern Florida. Only in the panhandle! he repeated, shaking his head to rapturous applause. President Trump's trip to Florida saw his first presidential campaign rally in the state since the 2018 midterm elections / AP The president has never publicly endorsed the use of gunfire to deter migrants from crossing the border. However, he described it as a very effective method in an interview with Fox News in March. Now we are capturing these people, we are getting them but we don't do it like other countries. Other countries stand there with machine guns, ready to fire, he told presenter Sean Hannity. A German woman who posed as a wealthy heiress and swindled tens of thousands of dollars from banks, hotels and friends has been handed a four to 12 year prison sentence by a US court. Anna Sorokin, 28, faced up to 15 years in prison on her conviction of fraud charges stemming from multiple acts of glamorous grifting in 2016 and 2017. Using the name Anna Delvey, Sorokin deceived friends and financial institutions into believing she had a fortune of about $67 million overseas that would cover her high-end clothing, luxury hotel stays and trans-Atlantic travel. She claimed her father was a diplomat or an oil baron and went to extraordinary lengths to have others pay her way. Anna Sorokin was sentenced to up to 12 years in prison. / AP Last month, a Manhattan jury found Anna Sorokin guilty of four counts of theft of services, three counts of grand larceny and one count of attempted grand larceny. She was acquitted of one count of grand larceny and one count of attempted grand larceny. Prosecutors in the Manhattan district attorney's office said Sorokin defrauded others of about $275,000. They said she used forged bank statements to seek a loan of $22 million from a bank to fund a private arts club she wanted to open in Manhattan. Anna Sorokin in court last month. She became known for her dress style in court. / AP She managed to get a $100,000 loan, which prosecutors said she never repaid. She used about $30,000 of that to cover her overdue bills at the fashionable 11 Howard hotel, where she was living. Prosecutors said she also deposited bad checks amounting to $15,000 in an account with Signature Bank, managing to withdraw $8,200 in cash before the checks bounced. She also tricked a friend into covering bills for $62,000 at the end of their six-night luxury trip to Morocco after Sorokin's card was declined, prosecutors said, but the jury declined to convict Sorokin on this charge. Disliking standard-issue jail overalls, Sorokin's lawyers employed a stylist to dress her for her appearances in the Manhattan criminal court, and her daily looks became the subject of a dedicated Instagram account. US Immigration and Customs Enforcement said in a statement that Sorokin was a German citizen who had illegally overstayed in the United States. F our men have been arrested by detectives who are investigating the death of Lyra McKee, who was shot in the head while watching riots on Londonderry's Creggan estate last month. Dissident republican group the New IRA later apologised, saying its members carried out the killing of the 29-year-old journalist. On Thursday morning, the Police Service of Northern Ireland said four people have been arrested as part of their murder investigation. The four males, aged 15, 18, 38 and 51, were arrested in Derry under terrorism legislation. Tributes to Lyra / PA They have been taken to the serious crime suite in Musgrave Station, Belfast where they are currently being questioned by detectives. Detective Superintendent Jason Murphy said the arrests came after searches at four houses. "As part of this morning's operation detectives carried out searches at four houses in the city and arrested four people in connection with the violence which was orchestrated on the streets of Creggan on the evening of Lyra McKee's murder," he said. "They are currently in custody where they are being questioned. Police Service of Northern Ireland Detective Superintendent Jason Murphy announced the arrest of four men. / PA "I want to thank the public for the widespread support we have received to date, including more than 140 people who have provided images, footage and other details via our dedicated major incident public portal. "I still want to hear from anyone who can tell us anything they know. "I would urge anyone who has any information to contact my team of detectives on 101. "Alternatively, if you would prefer to provide information without giving your details, you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers and speak to them anonymously on 0800 555 111." A British man believed to be part of an extremist cell has been sentenced to four years in prison in Kenya for possession of bomb-making material. Jermaine Grant, from London, was arrested in 2011 when police allegedly found chemicals, switches and a bomb-making manual at his apartment in the port city of Mombasa. Four years will be added to his current sentence. He has denied the charge and is appealing, the BBC reported. Jermaine Grant leaves after the court sentenced him to a further four years jail time. / AFP/Getty Images Grant was convicted of possession of bomb-making materials last month, but the court acquitted him of conspiracy over the alleged plot. After Grant's 2011 arrest, Kenyan police accused him of being involved in a plot targeting hotels visited by foreign tourists. It is claimed that Grant was sharing his apartment with Samantha Lewthwaite, the so-called "White Widow" who was married to Germaine Lindsay, one of the bombers who carried out the 2005 London terror attacks, that killed 52 people. N orth Korea has fired two suspected short-range missiles less than a week after its leader Kim Jong-un oversaw the test-firing of multiple rockets, South Korea's military has announced. The projectiles were fired from the northwestern town of Sino-ri towards the east, according to a statement released by South Koreas joint chiefs of staff. "You don't know what missile it is just from how far it flew," said Yang Uk, senior research fellow at the Korea Defence and Security Forum. "But one thing is clear there's no doubt that it is a missile." Kim Jong-un supervises Saturday's "strike drill" - a test of long-range multiple rocket launchers and tactical guided weapons, into the East Sea / AFP/Getty Images The two missiles were fired at about 4.30pm and 4.50pm local time (7.30am and 7.50am GMT) on Thursday and are believed to have flown around 420 km. A spokeswoman for South Korea's presidential Blue House said the countrys national security adviser, Chung Eui-yong, had closely monitored the situation via a video conference with the military. North Korea also tested fired several short-range missiles from its east coast into the ocean on Saturday, sharply raising tensions on the Korean peninsula. The country lashed out at the US and South Korea on Wednesday, saying its tests over the weekend were "regular and self-defensive" rather than provocative or hostile. Donald Trump and Kim Jong Un summit ends without a deal South Korea responded by calling for an end to threatening acts in the North. "North Korea has returned to its classic escalation tactics from before," said Mr Yang. "I believe they will keep escalating by using what appear to be short-range missiles, something that will not cause the U.S. to react right away." The South is currently hosting talks with top US envoy Stephen Biegun on how to break the deadlock over nuclear negotiations, after negotiations between Kim Jong-un and President Donald Trump failed back in February. The summit, held in Vietnam, broke down with the US insisting the North give up its nuclear programme and North Korea seeking sanctions relief. R evenge porn and cyber-flashing have been banned in Singapore as part of a major overhaul of the countrys criminal code. Sharing explicit videos or images without the consent of the person featured, or passing on unsolicited pictures of ones private parts, are now punishable by up to five years in jail plus fines after the Singaporean parliament passed a new bill on Monday. K Shanmugam, the countrys law and home affairs minister, said there had been a prevalence of online offences, including the publishing, or threats to publish, intimate images. "Persons intentionally send unsolicited pictures of their genitalia over social media or via messaging platforms. That will be criminalised. Penalties for that offence will be enhanced where the victim is below 14 years old, he explained. The decision to ban the acts is part of a major new overhaul of Singapores 150-year-old penal code, which was last fully reviewed in 2007. Other recent changes include banning child sex dolls, outlawing marital rape and decriminalising suicide. It comes as Singapore announces a ban on fake news, which will allow the government to block and order the removal of content including false statements of fact. The Protection from Online Falsehoods and Manipulation Bill was passed by the countrys parliament on Wednesday night by a vote of 72-9. The new law outlaws falsehoods deemed prejudicial to Singapore or likely to influence elections. Offenders could face a jail term of up to 10 years and hefty fines, while service providers will be required to remove the offending material. Opponents argued the new legislation gave government ministers too much power to determine what was false and defined public interest too broadly. Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong has rejected criticism that the fake news ban could further stifle free speech in Singapore, which already has stern laws on public protests and dissent / AP K Shanmugam insisted the orders to correct or remove false content would be directed predominantly at technology companies, rather than individuals breaking the law unintentionally, according to The Strait Times newspaper. However, Human Rights Watch sharply criticised the new law, calling it a "disaster for online expression by ordinary Singaporeans". D aenerys Targaryen looks wistfully out from her Throne Room as she prepares to take on Cersei Lannister in new Game of Thrones spoiler pictures. The newly-released images, issued by HBO on Wednesday, show preparations for another epic battle after Emilia Clarkes character and her army made their way to Kings Landing. The photos, like the trailer fans were treated to earlier this week, dont give much away, but are enough to suggest the enormity of what is about to happen. At the end of episode four, Dany and her Unsullied army travelled to Kings Landing to take on Queen Cersei, played by Lena Headey, who ordered the execution of Missandei before their very eyes. In command: Harry Strickland and The Golden Company / HBO One image shows Jon Snow (Kit Harington), Davos Seaworth (Liam Cunningham) and Tyrion Lannister (Peter Dinklage) looking out over the entrance to Kings Landing as the heavily depleted Unsullied army and Dothraki parade below. Another shows The Golden Company commander Harry Strickland (Marc Rissmann) on horseback in front of his army, ready to defend the Iron Throne from those who wish to take it from Cersei. Game of Thrones Season 8 Episode 5 - Preview The pictures also reveal that Dragonstone will be a key setting for the penultimate episode of the fantasy drama, with one showing Daenerys looking out from her Throne Room into the distance and a different image showing Grey Worm (Jacob Anderson) standing to attention. It is not known if these two photos are from the same image, but it is to be expected Grey Worm will be in pain this episode as he mourns the loss of lover Missandei. Looking out: Jon Snow (Kit Harington), Davos Seaworth (Liam Cunningham) and Tyrion Lannister (Peter Dinklage) observe ( HBO) / HBO Also in the Throne Room, Tyrion looks shocked and troubled by something he has just been told, while Jon Snow and Conleth Hills Varys who we now know has questionable loyalty to Dany walk side-by-side on a shore. Finally, Cersei retains a smug smile as she watches over her soon-to-be battlefield while safely inside the Red Keep, knowing Euron Greyjoy (Pilou Asbaek) is at sea ready to fight. They're going to be mental. Episode five is bigger [thank Battle of Winterfell], the actress said during an appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live! I mean, four, five, and six - they're all insane. Find the biggest TV you can. Game of Thrones: Season 8 - In pictures 1 /58 Game of Thrones: Season 8 - In pictures Kit Harington as Jon Snow and Emilia Clarke as Daenerys Targaryen HBO A scene from Games of Thrones, Season 8, Episode 2 HBO Lena Headey as Cersei Lannister HBO A scene from Games of Thrones, Season 8 HBO A scene from Games of Thrones, Season 8, Episode 3 HBO A scene from Games of Thrones, Season 8, Episode 3 HBO A scene from Games of Thrones, Season 8, Episode 3 HBO A scene from Games of Thrones, Season 8, Episode 3 HBO A scene from Games of Thrones, Season 8, Episode 3 HBO A scene from Games of Thrones, Season 8, Episode 3 HBO A scene from Games of Thrones, Season 8, Episode 3 HBO A scene from Games of Thrones, Season 8, Episode 3 HBO A scene from Games of Thrones, Season 8, Episode 3 HBO A scene from Games of Thrones, Season 8, Episode 3 HBO A scene from Games of Thrones, Season 8, Episode 3 HBO Emilia Clarke and Kit Harington (Daenerys Targaryen and Jon Snow) in Season 8 Episode 2 of Game of Thrones HBO A scene from Games of Thrones, Season 8, Episode 2 HBO A scene from Games of Thrones, Season 8, Episode 1 HBO A scene from Games of Thrones, Season 8, Episode 1 HBO A scene from Games of Thrones HBO Maisie Williams as Arya Stark HBO Emilia Clarke as Daenerys Targaryen HBO A scene from Games of Thrones, Season 8 trailer HBO A scene from Games of Thrones, Season 8 trailer HBO Maisie Williams as Arya Stark Helen Sloan/HBO A scene from Games of Thrones, Season 8 trailer HBO A scene from Games of Thrones, Season 8 trailer HBO A scene from Games of Thrones, Season 8 HBO A scene from Games of Thrones, Season 8 HBO A scene from Games of Thrones, Season 8 HBO Sophie Turner as Sansa Stark HBO A scene from Games of Thrones, Season 8 trailer HBO A scene from Games of Thrones, Season 8 trailer HBO Liam Cunningham as Davos Seaworth HBO A scene from Games of Thrones, Season 8 HBO Isaac Hempstead Wright as Bran Stark HBO Peter Dinklage as Tyrion Lannister HBO Lena Headey as Cersei Lannister HBO Gwendoline Christie as Brienne of Tarth HBO Nikolaj Coster-Waldau as Jaime Lannister HBO John Bradley as Samwell Tarly HBO Lena Headey as Cersei Lannister HBO Conleth Hill as Varys HBO Emilia Clarke as Daenerys Targaryen HBO A pple's signature sleek white AirPods may be the best-selling wireless earbuds around but theres competition coming from inside the tech giants own Park HQ in California. This week, Beats by Dr Dre, also owned by Apple, is gearing up to launch its wireless offering: the Powerbeats Pro. Theres the trademark ear hook complete with Beats logo, a smooth design in four colours (moss, navy, black and ivory), and that all-important emphasis on bringing the best sound to your ears. But the new phones also borrow some of the best parts of Apples engineering prowess, such as the H1 chip found in AirPods 2, which is why Beats president Luke Wood is particularly excited about his new product. When we became part of Apple four-and-a-half years ago we had this dream of incorporating all this great, innovative technology into what we do while still being an independent company, he says. This is the beginning of that full integration, of what it looks like when Apple and Beats bring a product to market. Here, the in-house rivals go head to head... Raising the sound bar Sound is the most important factor in the new Beats earphones, thanks to the musical heritage of Beatss founders, ex-NWA rapper/producer Dr Dre and producer Jimmy Iovine. The thing that makes us breathe in the morning is music, when we go to bed at night, its music. We live in music, says Wood. The new earphones are 23 per cent smaller and 17 per cent lighter than their predecessor, the Powerbeats 3 which is not a lot of space to work with when it comes to sound. Beats has incorporated some innovative tech a linear piston driver, which is a mini-speaker inside the earphones. Usually found in high-end freestanding speakers. Its unusual to see them in a pair of earphones this small, and ensures they have low distortion and a great dynamic range. The Powerbeats Pro earphones come in four colours: ivory, moss, navy and black / Beats by Dr Dre By comparison, there were no material changes to the recent AirPods 2 release. The sound from the little earbuds is clear and detailed, but there isnt the ingrained focus on sound compared with the Beats earphones. A snug fit There are a lot of benefits to untethered listening but one thing wireless phones often struggle with is the fit. No matter how good the sound is, how nifty the design, it doesnt matter un-less they are comfortable to wear. Fit has been such a massive problem, and we think weve finally solved that with the new Powerbeats, says Wood. To ensure they sit comfortably, Beats tapped the expertise of Apples Human Factor engineering team, who created more than 20 different configurations of the design. These were electronically modelled and physically tested to ensure optimal fit in 95 per cent of ears. Its fascinating, Wood says of the nearly three-year process. I think people got to the moon faster than we made these headphones. Most audio companies dont have that kind of skilled technical workforce that is working with iPads and Macs and very used to this kind of work. So, we found ourselves developing products at scale in a way we never really thought we would have before. The updated AirPods are available with an wireless charging case for extra ease / Apple Powerbeats needed this kind of work to match the design of AirPods 2. With each AirPod weighing 4g, it feels like there is barely anything in your ear. They stay secure when youre commuting, running, or in the gym. AirPods are also unbelievably easy to wear. That Powerbeats hook may be necessary to ensure the perfect fit, but finding the right position takes some getting used to. The simplicity of Apple comes through here. High performance When it come to performance, Powerbeats Pro and AirPods 2 are almost neck and neck, thanks to both sporting Apples H1 chip the tech that ensures the respective earphones are truly smart products. If its battery life you look for, then Powerbeats Pro clinches it with nine hours, while AirPods 2 manages only five hours. Only have a few minutes to charge before a run? The Powerbeats Fast Fuel feature gives you 90 minutes battery on a five-minute charge. Both models come with a charging case that holds 24 hours worth of listening time. With AirPods, a wireless version is available for extra ease and cost. Another smart feature means the Beats model automatically powers on when taken out of the case. On both it and the AirPods, Smart Pause stops the song or podcast youre listening to when you take an earphone out. Apple's AirPods 2 offer five hours listening time / Apple However, the AirPods include hands-free Hey Siri functionality, which is missing from the Powerbeats. Apples AI assistant makes it easier to change songs, adjust volume or get directions straight to your ear. You have to do this manually on Powerbeats, using the volume rocker and buttons found on either earphone. Making a phone call? Both sets have four beaming mics and an accelerometer that detects when youre speaking. A nifty feature decreases external noise in the environment so you can have clear conversations. Verdict When it comes to battery life and sound, Powerbeats Pro is the one to try. But for simplicity and fit, as well as Siri functionality, AirPods 2 will win out. Pune, India, May 09, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Market Research Future (MRFR)s forecast suggests that the global ultrasound devices market is expected to strike a CAGR of 3.35% over the assessment period 2018 to 2026. Also, it has been highlighted in the report that the market is poised to exceed a valuation of USD 9,000 Mn by the close of 2026. Increasing prevalence of chronic diseases in conjunction with rising demand for non-invasive diagnosis has paved the way for the expansion of the market. The growth pattern of the market is anticipated to exhibit similar trends over the next couple of years. Ultrasound devices have been observing widening scope of diagnosis including, but not limited to, urological, abdominal, cardiac, cerebrovascular, gynecological, and breast examinations. It is poised to drive the growth of the ultrasound devices market in the forthcoming years. The market is on the verge of entering a phase of maturity, but technological innovations are forecasted to dominate the growth trajectory across the review period. For instance, the development of portable devices facilitates access to medical facilities in emergencies or remote areas. It is presumed to gain traction in the foreseeable future, thus, augmenting the market. Request Free Sample @ https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/sample_request/2789 The boom witnessed in the medical tourism industry resonates strong opportunities for growth for the market participants. It is poised to propel the expansion of the ultrasound devices market over the next couple of years. The market is likely to attract considerable inflow of investments for expediting growth. Case to the point is, Butterfly, an AI-based healthtech startup, has raised USD 250 Mn in series D funding for its portable full-body ultrasound scanner. Thus, the future trajectory of the market promises potential and growth for the next few years. Key Players: The noteworthy players operating in the global ultrasound devices market are Fukuda Denshi (Japan), Analogic Corporation (U.S.), Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd. (South Korea), Hitachi Ltd. (Japan), Fujifilm Holdings Corporation (Japan), Koninklijke Philips N.V. (The Netherlands), Canon Medical Systems Corporation (Japan), Esaote Spa (Italy), Shantou Institute of Ultrasonic Instruments Co. Ltd. (China), Siemens Healthineers (Germany), Shenzhen Mindray Bio-Medical Electronics Co. Ltd. (China), Trivitron Healthcare (India), and General Electric Company (U.S.). Market Segmentation: This MRFR report presents an exhaustive segmental analysis of the ultrasound devices market based on portability, display, application, technology, and end-user. By portability, the market has been segmented into cart/trolley based ultrasound devices, handheld/compact ultrasound devices, and point-of-care (POC) ultrasound devices. Among these, the cart/trolley based ultrasound devices segment held the major fraction of the market in 2017 and is anticipated to strike a healthy CAGR over the assessment period. The growth of the segment can be primarily ascribed to its extensive use in acute and critical emergencies. Based on display, the market has been bifurcated into color ultrasound devices and black & white ultrasound devices. The color ultrasound devices segment is likely to gain control over a relatively larger share of the market as it offers superior image quality with high image resolution. By application, the ultrasound devices market has been segmented into radiology/general imaging, obstetrics/gynecology, cardiology, anesthesiology, urology, vascular, musculoskeletal, neurology, and gastroenterology. Among these, the radiology/general imaging segment accounted for the maximum market share in 2017 and was trailed by the cardiology segment. The radiology/general imaging segment is expected to thrive substantially owing to the increasing burden of cancer. The market, by technology, has been divided into diagnostic ultrasound and therapeutic ultrasound. The diagnostic ultrasound segment has been projected to strike a CAGR of 3.71% over the review period which is attributable to increasing demand for 2D ultrasound to treat women. By end-user, the Ultrasound Devices Market is segmented into hospitals and diagnostic & surgical centers, ambulatory care centers, maternity centers, and research & academic institutes. Among these, the hospitals and diagnostic & surgical centers segment is prognosticated to scale a CAGR of 3.21% during the projection period. Browse the market data and information spread across 238 pages with 285 data tables and 19 figures of the report Ultrasound Devices Market - Forecast 2018-2026 in-depth alongside table of content (TOC) at: https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/reports/ultrasound-devices-market-2789 Europe set to surpass a valuation of USD 3000 Mn by 2026 The geographical analysis of the ultrasound devices market spans across four regions, viz. Americas, Europe, Asia Pacific, and the Middle East & Africa (MEA). Europe held the dominant position in 2017 and is expected to scale valuation of USD 3,308.54 Mn by 2026-end. The rising cases of medical emergencies are poised to fuel demand for ultrasound devices in the region. North America is anticipated to exhibit a decent growth rate in the years to come while securing the second spot. In addition, Asia Pacific has been forecasted to thrive at a rapid pace reflecting a CAGR of 3.76% across the assessment period. Latest Industry News: Philips, a Dutch multinational technology company headquartered in Amsterdam, has announced the launch of EPIQ Elite premium ultrasound system for the expansion of its portfolio. Ellex Medical Lasers, an Australia-based company, has unveiled its latest innovation in diagnostic ultrasound technology, Eye Prime. Healcerion, the provider of mobile-based healthcare system, has introduced Sonon wireless ultrasound device to support their newly launched Physical Therapist (PT) division. Browse Related Reports: Cardiovascular Ultrasound Market information, by type (Transthoracic, Trans esophageal, Echocardiograms, Stress, Abdominal Vasculature ultrasound), imaging technology (2D, 3D, Color Doppler) end user (hospitals and clinics, diagnostic centers and others) - Forecast to 2023 https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/reports/cardiovascular-ultrasound-market-1548 Veterinary Ultrasound Market: Animal Type (Large Animal) Type (2D Ultrasound Imaging) Product Type (Device) Therapeutic Area (Cardiology, Oncology) Imaging Technology (Digital Imaging Technology) and End-User (Veterinary Clinic) Global Forecast Till 2023 https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/reports/veterinary-ultrasound-market-6054 Ultrasound Gastroscopes Market Research Report: By Product Type (Optic Ultrasound Gastroscopes, Others), Application (Oncology, Others), Procedure (Upper Endoscopic Ultrasound, Others), End User (Hospitals and Clinics, Others)Forecast till 2023 https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/reports/ultrasound-gastroscopes-market-7784 About Market Research Future: At Market Research Future (MRFR), we enable our customers to unravel the complexity of various industries through our Cooked Research Report (CRR), Half-Cooked Research Reports (HCRR), & Consulting Services. MRFR team have supreme objective to provide the optimum quality market research and intelligence services to our clients. Our market research studies by products, services, technologies, applications, end users, and market players for global, regional, and country level market segments, enable our clients to see more, know more, and do more, which help to answer all their most important questions. In order to stay updated with technology and work process of the industry, MRFR often plans & conducts meet with the industry experts and industrial visits for its research analyst members. I n between appearances as Arya Stark in hit show Game of Thrones and rave performances in Londons theatres, actor Maisie Williams also heads up a new social platform called Daisie. Designed to connect creatives, the platform wants to revolutionise the way young people use social media by helping them gain exposure in the industry as well as connect them with mentors. Daisie is founded on the belief that pushing forward together, with a shared vision, is what sparks creativity and drives change. It's our purpose to bring creators together and support them to do amazing work, according to the websites mission statement. Williams leads the platform alongside CEO Dom Santry. Last year, when the app was initially announced during its beta phase, it was all clean white backgrounds and distinctly Instagram-influenced. Now that Daisie is out of beta the yellow accents have been wiped away for an edgier look, complete with a sharp new logo. Williams with her co-founder and CEO Dom Santry / Tim P. Whitby / Stringer And its not just an app the platform can be accessed via a browser too, presumably so it's easier to work cross-platform on the go, which all creatives will know is necessary. Theres no Android app at the moment, just strictly iOS for now. Its not easy to launch a new social platform. Many come and go, such as Peach, Kik, and even Google+ which died a death earlier this year. Hopefully, Daisie will hit upon a niche that needs filling, a platform for people to showcase their work without the boastful nature of Instagram, or the strictly corporate speak of LinkedIn. One element that Williams promised during beta last year was that there would be no follower counts on the platform. At the time, she told TechCrunch: If you have follower accounts it then becomes about a competition, like a popularity contest between who can get the most. Given that the other social platforms like Instagram are reportedly looking to remove the visible like count on posts, it seems like Daisie was on to something early on. NEW YORK, May 09, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Focused on commercial aviation maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO), Aviation Week Networks MRO Baltics, Eastern Europe and Russia (#MROBEER), is being held May 21-22 at the Radisson BLU Hotel Lietuva in Vilnius, Lithuania. The event will offer a relaxed and informal networking conference for industry representatives from airlines, OEMs, suppliers, and service providers. More than 90 percent of the 300 registered attendees are purchasing decision makers and influencers and the event will host more than 30 service providers and representatives from 30+ countries. Delegates will foster new relationships, strengthen existing ones, and expand reach across the MRO community in the Baltics region and throughout Europe and Russia. MRO BEER is a focused conference event, featuring a showcase of various solution providers. The intent is to hear, analyze, and discuss what is happening in the conference then meet with the various companies in the showcase that are there to help and provide their best solutions, said Lydia Janow, Managing Director/Events & Tradeshows, Aviation Week Network. The Baltics, Eastern Europe and Russia is a booming region for the aviation industry and this event sells out each year. MRO BEER will feature airline led discussion sessions that address partnership and business opportunities, critical insight on regional issues, idea exchange and networking with industry peers, and expert opinion on key trends and forecast and revenue growth. The conference will open with an introduction to the region and its importance in the MRO landscape from Zilvinas Lapinskas, the CEO of FL Technics. Highlights include talks by: Tim Butzmann, Senior Manager Digital Product and Portfolio, Lufthansa Technik; Mirjana Ceh, CCO, Adria Tehnika; Alistair Dibisceglia, EVP Fleet, Technical Procurement and Supply Chain, Alitalia Societa Aerea Italiana S.p.A.; Patrick Fennell, COO, Nordica Jet; Tadas Goberis, CEO, AviaAM Leasing; Jacques-Olivier Guichard, VP Digital, AFI KLM E&M; Jari Huhtinen, VP of Technical Operations; Finnair and Vytautas Kairaris, former CEO and Owner Small Planet Airlines. See here for a full agenda . The MRO BEER showcase provides attendees with the opportunity to source suppliers and get hands-on with the latest technologies, tools and resources and translate the practical knowledge of the conference into real-life solutions. Open only to delegates, the showcase will feature 30+ suppliers. See here for a list of exhibitors . FLTechnics is the leading partner of MRO BEER with support from Airlines for America and IATA . Airlines represented will include Aero Norway, Air Baltic, Air France Industries, Alitalia, Blue Air, Czech Airlines, Deutsche Lufthansa Berlin Stiftung, FinnAir, Go Airlines (India), Kenya Airways, Regional Jet (NORDICA), Pole Air Aviation, Ryan Air, Satair, Scandinavian Airline Systems, TAP Air Portugal, and Ukraine International Airlines. Upcoming Aviation Week Network events include: ap&m Europe | June 4-6, Frankfurt, Germany; Aero-Engines Europe | September 11-12, Istanbul, Turkey; MRO Asia-Pacific | September 24-26, Singapore; and MRO Europe | October 15-17, London. AVIATION WEEK NETWORK ABOUT INFORMA Last year, a new museum opened in Montgomery, Alabama, dedicated to that awful history. The National Memorial for Peace and Justice was built in the same spirit of remembrance as the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington, D.C. Its won powerful reviews from across the political spectrum. The country has never seen anything like it, headlined The New York Times. Even the architecture is said to be haunting. Plinths are suspended from the roof of the memorial like hanged men, each one engraved with details of the victim and his (or in a handful of cases, her) death, writes The National Review, a conservative publication. There are 800 such plinths, one for each county or city where a lynching took place. Outside, there are 800 duplicates lined up in rows like coffins, the New York Times says that the museum is willing to send to each of those localities. The idea is to create a national network of memorials. That means there are at least 49 localities in Virginia that, sadly, are eligible for one of those memorials. Roanoke is one of them. So is Alleghany County. And Bath County. And Bland County. And Franklin County. And Henry County. And Roanoke County. And Russell County. And Scott County. And Smyth County. And Tazewell County. And Wise County. And Wythe County. Its almost easier to list the localities in Virginia that didnt have a lynching. When will any of these localities make a move to memorialize their own history? If they do, they have a memorial waiting to be erected. Acumen Research and Consulting, recently published report Occupant Classification System Market - Global Industry Analysis, Size, Share and Forecast 2019 - 2026. LOS ANGELES, May 09, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Global Occupant Classification Systems Market is estimated to grow at CAGR above 6.5 % over the forecast time frame 2019-2026 and reach the market value around USD 3.2 billion by 2026. Free Download Sample Report Pages for Better understanding@ https://www.acumenresearchandconsulting.com/request-sample/1355 Due to an increasing awareness of vehicle safety systems in countries such as India and China, a global market in the classification of occupants will increase. In fact, almost 1.25 million deaths have been reported every year by the World Health Organization (WHO), and car accidents are the leading causes of these deaths globally. This has forced automotive manufacturers to offer their vehicles enhanced safety features. In order to prevent injuries due to airbag impact, the person's weight and position must be detected. Increasing deployment of advanced intelligent airbag systems leading to the development of market-driving passive occupant detection systems (PODS). The market for the occupancy rating systems is growing as these systems were mandated for all car models by most advanced countries including the United States and Europe. There is a high growth potential for countries including India and China in the industry as the emerging rules on airbag safety in the Asian countries are in place. For example, from 1 July 2019 onwards, the Government of India made airbags and seat belts compulsory for all cars. The United States and Europe dominated in 2018 the market for occupying systems. The National Highway and Traffic Safety Authority (NHTSA) Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 2008 has made the requirements for active and passive safety restrictions and performance requirements for occupancy protection mandatory. This has resulted in most of the mid-range and flagship models used by automotive companies such as Chevrolet, Dodge, Ford and Honda. The airbag regulations in countries like India have influenced the installation of these systems in economic-class vehicles which have created market growth possibilities. View Detail Information with Complete TOC@ https://www.acumenresearchandconsulting.com/occupant-classification-system-market Bladder is the industry's most popular technology. These systems include a bladder, a belt switch, a ECU airbag and a pre-tensioner. These systems include: Ford and Chevrolet cars integrate this safety technology and are used in several mid-range and luxury cars. Strain gage technology is easy to install and is deployed across automobile brands such as Honda, Jeep, Accord, Hyundai Elantra etc. The technology of pressurized bandage systems is less used and is mostly used in high-end models such as the Chevrolet Aveo, Chevrolet Cruze and the Occupancy Classification Systems Buick Enclave (OCS) market. Key Players & Strategies Some of the leading players in the industry include Aisin Seiki, Continental AG, Denso, Robert Bosch and ZF Friedrichshafen AG. They develop new products to have a competitive advantage over their counterparts. In the occupant classification system market, many of the leading suppliers focus on strengthening the distribution network through partnerships with other enterprises. Denso announced in April 2019 that it will invest USD 1.6 billion to boost automotive electrification systems production. The leading supplier of various sensors for occupant detections is flexpoint Sensor Systems, which has several distribution partners. Browse All official Market Research Reports Press Releases@ https://www.acumenresearchandconsulting.com/press-releases Explore Our Market Blog@ https://www.acumenresearchandconsulting.com/blogs Robert Bosch has consistently invested in research and development as one of the leading car systems suppliers. R&D activities in 2017 were invested by the company in approximately USD 8.2 billion. It is expanding its production facilities worldwide, including Braga and Portugal. Thanks to the presence of several car and sensor suppliers, the occupants, classification system market has become competitive. In vehicles in crashes & collisions, airbags have emerged as a major safety feature. The earlier airbacks were however too aggressive and in some cases caused serious injuries and even deaths to the passenger with a high force. This led to the growth of the occupants ' classification system market as the demand for airbags was increasing according to the demands of the occupants. In the USA, airbags were issued to create lower risk of injuries for inhabitants, especially children. In the United States As a result, all cars manufactured in the USA have these systems after 2006, this motivated car manufacturers to use airbag restraint systems. These systems had been deployed in luxury cars previously. The economy and intermediate vehicles have nevertheless become the main growing markets. INQUIRY BEFORE BUYING@ https://www.acumenresearchandconsulting.com/inquiry-before-buying/1355 The report is readily available and can be dispatched immediately after payment confirmation. Buy this premium research report - https://www.acumenresearchandconsulting.com/buy-now/0/1355 Would like to place an order or any question, please feel free to contact at sales@acumenresearchandconsulting.com | +1 407 915 4157 For Latest Update Follow Us: https://twitter.com/AcumenRC https://www.facebook.com/acumenresearchandconsulting https://www.linkedin.com/company/acumen-research-and-consulting/ Browse More Press Releases: http://www.amecoresearch.com/press-releases It is estimated that there are fewer than 400,000 living World War II veterans today. It is important that we preserve the legacy, lessons and sacrifices of these World War II veterans. The everyday men and women of the World War II generations character, courage, creativity, determination and innovation not only led to V-E Day, but also reshaped America. We should continue to look to the Greatest Generation for the spirit, sacrifice and commitment of the American people to the common defense of the nation and to the broader causes of peace and freedom from tyranny throughout the world. Winston Churchill once said succeeding generations must not be allowed to forget their sacrifice and to live by the honor they represented. For those citizen soldiers who left home at 17, 18 and 19 years old for the war, the way we can honor them is through a spirit of evangelism to assure our schools and universities do not forget their obligation to teach the history of our republic, and in particular, what our citizens have done in its wars, especially World War II. My students represent the best of America; people who have made mistakes and are still striving and fighting for a better life. I need everyone to do me a favor: close your eyes and think back to when you were a teenager. I want you to think of the worst thing you did in your teenage years. Now imagine if everyone you met during those years (teachers, principals, counselors, student peers) judged you by that moment of weakness. Would you have been given the opportunity to be where you are today? Would you be the person you are today? My students are faced with this challenge and deserve a great education just like every other student in the United States and I am proud to be here to represent them. This award is not just for my students but for all students in America. I accept this award for our black and brown students, and students with disabilities who are being pushed into the juvenile justice system by schools that dont value or understand their culture or abilities. Specifically, I know from my own experience as an African American male, that students need more teachers that look like them, and policies that keep them in school and learning. The Cafe de Paris suites still serve up coffee and treats. We couldnt get rid of the coffee or my coffee people and the sweets are my passion, she said. Moravas favorite is sponge candy, a kind of toffee that is airy. Her customers' favorite is glazed pecan turtles. She also makes her own marshmallows. Morava stocks a variety of herbs available for sale, including oat straw, motherwort, catnip and a variety of teas. Contrary to what most people think, catnip is not just for cats. According to Morava, it is relaxing for humans, has vitamins A, B and C, and can be brewed and used as a dandruff rinse. There is no caffeine within any of the herbs Morava sells. Morava also said no one at her business is certified to prescribe anything and encourages people to be careful and know how the herbs could potentially affect them. She makes elderberry syrup, chokecherry syrup and fire cider. The fire cider is the same recipe that was made at Standing Rock in the medic tent, she said. My sister comes in and makes that. Existing laws and where to find them Anti-trust laws exist that are meant to put a check on big agribusiness interests. Yet, lax government enforcement of those laws have left few options outside of civil action, such as the petition R-CALF USA filed recently against the four major beef packers a lawsuit that Maxwell said OCM supports. Its a shame that these producers have to find another avenue, Maxwell said. Government within our capitalist economic model, the way it has worked and needs to work, is that the government provides the safeguards for the market, either through transparency or through regulatory action to prevent predatory, discriminatory or retaliatory type practices or collusion that harms both the farmer and gouges the consumer. We cant turn away from these battles In the current political environment, it would require significant political capital in order to secure the kinds of reforms CAP recommends. The data has gotten even more depressing, but it doesnt mean we can turn away from these battles, he said. I really think its time for folks in Washington and folks across the country to raise the alarm about this, because farmers have been putting up with this long enough, Willingham added. Now is an opportunity to raise awareness on this and push farther. Submit Your News We're always interested in hearing about news in our community. Let us know what's going on! 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After the 11 a.m. service, a procession will travel from Highway 77 and then onto Highway 115 through Huntersville, Davidson, and Mooresville, the release from Iredell-Statesville Schools states. Students are encouraged to find a spot along the procession route to honor Officer Sheldon, the release states. Any student in the Iredell-Statesville Schools who wishes to leave school early to view the funeral procession will be marked as excused. The processional is scheduled to arrive in Davidson/Mooresville between 2:15-3:30pm on Friday. The Iredell-Statesville Schools Board of Education and administration encourage all I-SS students to wear blue in honor of Officer Sheldon and our law enforcement officials, who watch over all of us every day, it states. Lana Simmons wasnt overly concerned when she felt a lump in her breast. Simmons said shed had a normal mammogram just six months earlier. I kinda blew it off. I had no family history and had just had a normal mammogram, she said. As a nurse practitioner, Simmons said, she should have known better. A fellow nurse practitioner told her she needed to get it checked out. Simmons waited a couple of months before going to have it examined, and she quickly learned the lump was cancerous. Because of the quick growth and the size of the lump, Simmons said, she decided to have a bi-lateral mastectomy. A few rounds of chemotherapy and radiation later, she is recovering, and back at work. Shes also become an advocate of an event shed only heard of before her own battle with cancer Relay for Life. Relay for Life raises funds for the American Cancer Society and awareness of cancer and the need for early detection. This years Relay is June 1 from 1 to 10 p.m. at Signal Hill Mall. English Lithuanian Siauliu Bankas AB, company code 112025254, address of the head office Tilzes str. 149, Siauliai, Lithuania. Siauliu bankas AB has received the notification of the person, closely associated with the manager, on transactions in securities issued by the bank (attached). Director of Securities Accounting Department Jolanta Dobiliauskiene is authorized by the Issuer to provide additional information and is available on tel.: +370 41 595669. Attachment Forty-eight percent of the proposed budget goes to education, an 11.57 percent increase. Public safety in schools has been added to the budget for the first time. Over $3 million will go to school resource officers and door locks as well as communication and camera systems. Twenty percent of the proposed budget is assigned to public safety with 12 new staff, including 11 Sheriffs Office positions and a veterinary technician for Animal Services. Human services received 14.5 percent for seven new positions as the department expands to Mooresville. Building and land development received 2.6 percent for a new inspector. Capital improvements received 1.4 percent. Other needs, including building renovation and an economic development liaison, received 13.1 percent of the budget. Jones also recommended a new plan for funding county firefighters. It includes a one-cent increase to the fire tax rate from seven to eight cents. This would help all county fire stations with staffing and equipment. Sarah West of Adopt-A-Cop took the stage, speaking of her work with Sheldon through the program. I never got the opportunity to meet Officer Sheldon in person, the time that was spent talking and messaging up to the event left an impact ... I will forever remember his passion, West said. West continued by sharing a message from Officer Sheldons adopter, Angela, who got to meet him on a personal level after her father-in-law passed away. Sheldon was there for Angela in her time of need to help comfort her after the loss, emotionally preparing her before she entered the home of her father-in-law after he did not make it after extensive CPR. The event continued with a young boy singing "One Call Away" by Charlie Puth; when the song ended he asked the community to sing it with him one more time. This community engagement was needed as Officer Andrew Beck took to the podium. Fighting back tears, Beck was comforted by Harry Sheldon, Officer Sheldons father, and other K9 officers. They stood next to him holding him strong as he stood in front of a supportive community who encouraged him to heal. When I got to the scene that night, Darren Campbell was already there assisting us. Hed already officially taken and put his deputies in the town of Mooresville to assist us with the call volume, Williams said. You cant imagine. You go from effective to ineffective very quickly, but because we have good partners and not just the Sheriffs Office but I see members of EMS here. I see members of Fire and Rescue here. It took all of us that night to bring that night to a resolve, and itll take all of us to bring healing going forward. The House Judiciary Committee has voted to hold Attorney General William Barr in contempt of Congress, escalating the legal battle with the Trump administration over access to special counsel Robert Mueller's report. The committee voted 24-16 to hold Barr in contempt after the Justice Department rejected House Democrats' demands for the full Mueller report and the underlying evidence. Ahead of the vote, President Donald Trump asserted executive privilege over those materials and reserved the right to block them. The contempt resolution against Barr now moves to the full House. If it is approved, it would trigger a criminal referral to the U.S. attorney for the District of Columbia, which would decide whether to prosecute. Judiciary Chairman Jerrold Nadler said the panel had to act because Trump's stonewalling is creating a "constitutional crisis." The Justice Department said in a statement that the chairman of the House Judiciary Committee held a "politically motivated and unnecessary contempt vote." Justice Department spokeswoman Kerri Kupec says it is disappointing that members of Congress "have chosen to engage in such inappropriate political theatrics." She says Barr made "extraordinary efforts" to provide Congress and the public with information about Mueller's work. 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The elections in 2019 have special importance: you, the European citizens, are the ones who decide the path that the European Union will follow. That is why we, the heads of state from Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Germany, Estonia, Ireland, Greece, Croatia, Italy, Cyprus, Latvia, Lithuania, Hungary, Malta, Austria, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovenia, Slovakia and Finland summon all European citizens with voting rights to participate in the European Parliament elections in late May 2019. (...) We want a strong and integrated Europe. We therefore need a strong European Union, a Union that has common institutions, a Union that constantly reviews its work with a critical eye and is capable of reforming, a Union whose foundations are its citizens and its member states. This Europe needs a dynamic political debate on the best way to the future, based on the Rome Declaration of 25 March 2017. Europe is able to manage a wide range of opinions and ideas. But, of course, we do not have to go back to a Europe in which countries are no longer equal partners, but opponents. Our united Europe needs a strong vote of the peoples. That is why we invite you to exercise your voting rights. Our common European future is on the ballot, reads the document signed by the 21 EU presidents.They underline that peace and freedom, prosperity and well-being must not be taken for granted.We need to be actively involved in promoting the grand idea of a peaceful and integrated Europe, the appeal reads.The 21 presidents say that the elected members of the European Parliament, together with the Council of the European Union, decide what rules should be applied in Europe and how the budget of Europe should be spent.For many European citizens, especially the young generation, European citizenship has become their second nature. It is not a contradiction for them to love their village, town, region or nation and to be devoted to the European project. In these months, more than ever before, the European Union is facing profound challenges. For the first time since the start of European integration, people talk about the reverse of one or more integration steps, such as freedom of movement or the abolition of joint institutions. For the first time, a member state intends to leave the Union, while others ask for more integration into the European Union or the Eurozone, or a Europe with more speeds. Visions on these issues differ among the citizens and the governments of the member states, as well as between us, the heads of state. However, we all agree that European integration and unity are essential, and that we want Europe to continue as a Union, reads the document.According to the quoted source, only a strong community will be able to cope with the current global challenges.The effects of climate change, terrorism, economic globalization, and migration do not stop at national borders. By working together as equal partners at the institutional level, we will be able to successfully meet these challenges and continue on the path to economic and social cohesion and to development, the appeal of the 21 heads of state and government also reads.The document is signed by the President of Bulgaria, Rumen Radev, President of the Czech Republic, Milos Zeman, President of Germany, Frank-Walter Steinmeier, President of Estonia, Kersti Kaljulaid, President of Ireland, Michael D. Higgins, President of the Hellenic Republic, Prokopios Pavlopoulos, French President Emmanuel Macron, President of Croatia, Kolinda Grabar-Kitarovic, Italian President Sergio Mattarella, Cyprus President Nicos Anastasiades, President of Latvia, Raimonds Vejonis, Lithuanian President Dalia Grybauskaite, Hungarian President Janos Ader, President of Malta George Vella, Mr Bellen, President of Poland, Andrzej Duda, President of Portugal, Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, President of Romania, Klaus Iohannis, Slovenian President Borut Pahor, President of Slovakia Andrej Kiska, Finland's President Sauli Niinisto. Beauty Without the Buzz Goes Live Las Vegas, NV, May 09, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- via NEWMEDIAWIRE -- Health/Wellness company and radio syndicator, The Marquie Group, Inc. (OTCPINK: TMGI) today announced the launch of its new website whimcbd.com for customers to sign-up to receive notification and perks for its upcoming product launch. We take from nature, nutrition and science to deliver all the benefits you need to nourish your mind, body and soul, says company president and beauty expert Jacquie Carter Angell, adding, Our philosophy is not just to focus on the surface, we nourish and protect the skin from the inside-out. Whim CBD includes Inner Health a Beauty Drink containing hydrolyzed collagen, amino acids, organic CBD oil, and other vitamins and nutrients; Outer Beauty featuring a three product skin care regimen all containing organic CBD oil; Daily Solutions featuring 30 mL organic CBD oil tinctures infused with natural ingredients for targeted benefits, and MiniTincs, a 10 mL variety pack version of the tinctures. According to company CEO, Marc Angell, Well be launching a nationwide ad campaign on our Music of Your Life radio network to promote the products as they become available. Angell added, Jacquies Whim product line fits perfectly with our listeners. Be sure to sign-up at whimcbd.com to receive updates on availability. The ever-evolving Whim CBD website highlights two informational sections: Ask Jacquie, a feature also heard regularly on Music of Your Life, and Beauty Buzz, a health, beauty, and wellness blog. New features to come include an Ambassador Program, a YouTube channel, and more, all created to help educate the consumer on safe and efficacious ingredients. The Company recently filed a Regulation A, with the Securities and Exchange Commission represented by the Eilers Law Group of Asheville, North Carolina. About The Marquie Group, Inc. The Marquie Group, Inc. (OTCPINK: TMGI ), owns and operates two businesses: Music of Your Life, Inc ., the nation's longest-running, nationally syndicated music radio network broadcast nationwide and internationally to a worldwide audience on the Internet, and; Whim CBD , led by former Director, Worldwide Training and Education for Herbalife Nutrition, Jacquie Carter Angell, is a direct-to-consumer, health and beauty products platform with a pipeline of innovative solutions to pervasive wellness concerns: anxiety, anti-aging, low energy, sleeplessness, and stress that use advanced formulations of plant-based, amino-acid and CBD alternatives to chemical ingredients. Forward-Looking Statements This press release may contain certain forward-looking statements regarding future circumstances. These forward-looking statements are based upon the Company's current expectations and assumptions and are subject to various risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contemplated in such forward-looking statements. Actual results, events, and performance may differ. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as to the date hereof. The Company undertakes no obligation to release publicly any revisions to these forward-looking statements that may be made to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events. The inclusion of any statement in this release does not constitute an admission by the Company or any other person that the events or circumstances described in such statements are material. Investor and Media Inquiries: Marc Angell, CEO 844-999-WHIM (9446) marc@themarquiegroup.com German Chancellor Angela Merkel declared herself impressed to have been this Thursday at the largest open-air ethnographic museum in Europe - the ASTRA Museum of Traditional Folk Civilization - where the European People's Party Summit took place, museum director Ciprian Stefan told AGERPRES. "Mrs. Merkel even asked me about the role of the ASTRA Museum. I told her that this museum presents Romania's entire rural civilization, but also the multiculturalism specific for the country, not just the region, as we also have exhibits that are related to the European civilization. She was impressed. She asked me how big it is, I told her it's the biggest in Europe and she said: 'Wow!'," Ciprian Stefan related.According to him, "there have been historical moments today at the ASTRA Museum. The European leaders had a very important working meeting at the open-air museum in Dumbrava Sibiului. We are talking about a space that reminds everyone of roots and healthy resources, placing the European common values and multiculturalism at the forefront. More precisely, a place best suited for decisions on the future."The EPP Summit took place in Sibiu on Thursday, with heads of state and government, EPP party leaders, European Council President Donald Tusk, President of the European Commission Jean-Claude Juncker, and President of the European Parliament Antonio Tajani attending.On the same day, the ASTRA Museum in Dumbrava Sibiului, sitting on the outskirts of Sibiu, also hosted more than one hundred traditional craftsmen from all over the country who showed their mastery to mark Europe Day in an event called "Rural Europe". European democracy cannot exist without the rule of law, the independence of the judiciary, freedom and solidarity, on Thursday said in central Sibiu the Chairman of the European People's Party (EPP), Joseph Daul. We are in Sibiu also because we want to offer our support to President Iohannis, to Ludovic Orban [the National Liberal Party leader, ed.n.] and the EPP member party [PNL, ed. n.] in backing the rule of law and in the fight against corruption, and here I want to hail the courage and determination of the Romanians who took to the streets to manifest in the last years. (...) We won't allow the actions of the socialist and ALDE [Alliance of Liberals and Democrats, minor at rule, ed. n.] spoil the future of Romania, because at the heart of this decision stay our European values, the EPP leader said at the joint press conference with President Klaus Iohannis, the PNL leader Ludovic Orban, and the EPP candidate for the position of European Commission president, Manfred Weber, organised at the ASTRA Museum of Sibiu, ahead of the EPP Summit.Joseph Daul stressed that the independence of the judiciary is not a luxury, but a necessity.Justice must be in the service of all Romanians and not the privileged ones. Democracy cannot operate without the independence of the judiciary. Romanians can count on us to promote these values that unite us all in Europe, Joseph Daul highlighted.The EPP president added that on 26 May Romanians have to make two decisions related to the European Parliament and to the judiciary reform. There are still political forces whose leaders want to be above the law, who do not like it when the fundamental institutions of the rule of law are investigating and bringing to light corruption deeds, President Klaus Iohannis said on Thursday in Sibiu. He pointed out that "the defense of the rule of law has become a more and more common phrase in Europe" and the mission of the Member States is to explain to European citizens that this is not a question of political rhetoric, but one on which the everyday life of every European depends.""We have also witnessed in Romania an assault on the rule of law and other EU member states. There are still political forces whose leaders want to be above the law, who do not like it when fundamental institutions of the rule of law are investigating and bringing to light corruption deeds and the theft of public money, be they national or European. Defending the rule of law has become a phrase more and more common in Europe. It is our mission to explain to European citizens that this is not a matter of political rhetoric, but one on which the everyday life of every European depends. Simply put - if the rule of law is threatened, then every citizen stands to suffer, sooner or later. Romania is a profoundly European country and it will remain like this in the future and that is why the vote that you will give at the referendum matters. It is the vote - the referendum vote - for the European future of Romania," the president pointed out. President Klaus Iohannis on Thursday said that not randomly has he chosen May 9 to organise the European People's Party and the European Union's summits, but because this is Europe Day. "Europe arrived in Romania. (...) It is a very special moment to open the EPP Summit only a few hours ahead of the Sibiu Summit. Firstly, we shall talk about what the EU means to each of us, about our common values, what we should do if we are to take further this successful project for the welfare and safety of our citizens. The choice of the day of 9 May - Europe Day is not at all random. I've chosen Europe Day for these two meetings - the EPP Summit and the EU Sibiu Summit, and since we are all Europeans, I congratulate you on Europe Day," the Romanian president said.According to him, so that decisions for the future can be made, one should also look back at the foundation of the European construction and the several benefits the Union has brought to its citizens."To Romania, the moment is historic and 30 years since the communism fall, we have brought Europe home, here, to Romania. The EPP leaders have played a paramount role in the construction of the EU, they have laid the foundation stone of this edifice and have understood that the place of the Central and East-European countries freed from communism is within the EU," Klaus Iohannis stressed. The National Liberal Party (PNL) will fight together with its EPP partners to make sure that Europe stays united, Liberal Chairman Ludovic Orban said in Sibiu on Thursday. According to him, the EU Summit in Sibiu is key to the decisions that will be further taken at European level."PNL is committed, together with its EPP partners, to taking further the mission to build a democratic Europe, a developed Europe, a Europe that gives every citizen the chance to have a decent life, the chance to succeed in life. Although we have political forces, both in Romania and in other European countries, that challenge the European project, which are trying to gain political capital from an absurd war with EU institutions, with the EU (...), as far as we are concerned we will fight at the side of our EPP partners to make sure that Europe stays united, that Europe is a place where every EU citizen has a decent life, freedom, that his dignity is observed, and all those who hold public office regardless where - at local, county, national or European level - are at the service of the citizen," Orban said at the EPP Summit. Victor Ponta, leader of Pro Romania, told a press conference held in southern Ramnicu Valcea on Wednesday that he is expecting a wave of "PSD [Social Democratic Party, major at rule, ed.n.] refugees" to the party he leads after the elections to the European Parliament, the "plan" of his party being to try to remove Liviu Dragnea (PSD leader, ed.n.) from the position of Speaker of the Chamber of Deputies after the 26 May elections. "Unlike Ion Iliescu, Adrian Nastase, even Mircea Geoana and, I might say, even Victor Ponta, Mr. Dragnea is not supported by the love of any PSD member. Don't believe for a second anyone in Valcea loves Dragnea. They all stay because Dragnea imparts positions and money. The second Dragnea no longer has the positions and the money, even Carmen Dan will leave him and Dancila will shout that the dictator has fled. So our first attack after 27 May, we would like to remove Mr. Dragnea from the Chamber and place a PSD member, not a problem there, but not Dragnea, and then we can change his government so that he can no longer give away positions and money. And then you will see a wave of PSD refugees fleeing to Pro Romania. Now we have to take care not to allow everyone in, to put a wall," the Pro Romania leader said.Ponta specified that he will not return to PSD, even if Liviu Dragnea were to leave the party leadership. As for a possible collaboration with the other Opposition formations, Ponta said he does not believe they are ready to take over the government. Foreign Minister Teodor Melescanu is calling for a broader celebration on May 9, with not only Europe, but also the benefits it offers - peace, unity in diversity, cohesion, solidarity and tolerance - being also honored. "The more than 70 years of united Europe have constantly shown us that unity, solidarity, cohesion provide lasting solutions. We are not allowed to ignore these lessons. Therefore I am urging you today to celebrate together not only Europe, but everything it offers - peace, unity in diversity, cohesion, solidarity and tolerance. I want us to have a common future that we should build together, from idea to reality. Today we must remember Europe as Jean Monnet saw it: a Europe that does not form coalitions between states, but a union among people. Many happy returns, Europe, many happy returns, Europeans!," the Foreign Minister said in a video message on Europe Day.He also drew attention to the responsibility falling on every citizen, at a time when "populist slippages, misinformation, hate speech and xenophobia are contaminating societies.""69 years ago, Robert Schuman, speaking of Europe and the foundations of what was to become the European Union, stressed the importance of genuine solidarity as essential for a united Europe. This solidarity - which was surely attempted in recent years - must stay the basic principle of our efforts, the more so as today, when we decide together how tomorrow's Europe will look like, it is one of the priorities. Of course, history provides us with lessons that, once deciphered, help us better understand the stakes of the future. Now, when populist slippages, misinformation, hate speech and xenophobia contaminate the societies, we all have a responsibility towards ourselves and those who come after us. It is our duty to decide the future. I emphasize this: it is a duty, not an option," Melescanu concluded. President Klaus Iohannis said on Thursday that some politicians do not want the rule of law in Romania. "We also have some politicians, who do not want the rule of law in Romania, but the decision is Romanians' to make, and we have a series of European elections, a referendum, a presidential election, and we will receive a clear answer from the Romanians. I know what the answer will be. I'm just waiting to receive it," Iohannis said at a joint news conference in Sibiu with European Council Presidents Donald Tusk and President of the European Commission Jean-Claude Juncker. When asked if there is a need for a European commissioner to deal with the rule of law, Iohannis replied: "It is up to the next president of the European Commission to decide whether or not such a commissioner is needed, whether or not a person with such powers should exist or someone delegated with other responsibilities as well." President Klaus Iohannis says that there is an "unfortunate discussion" in Romania on the rule of law, showing that Romanians want a fair, European country and that their vote counts in the European Parliament elections and the referendum of 26 May. "We have that unfortunate discussion about the rule of law in Romania. Romanians want fair justice, a fair country, but there are politicians who want something else, they want not to answer for their deeds and what is the Romanians' fault for this? Romanians want a European, prosperous and fair country and we have to understand this summit very well, this summit in Sibiu is not an isolated event, it is part of a much larger picture, of which we, Romanians, want to be part of. A prosperous European Union, elections to the European Parliament, speaking about elections - a referendum for the rule of law - a Union that generates prosperity for the Romanians, a European Union that generates jobs and generates a good future, as it is popularly said," Iohannis said on Wednesday in an interview with the public television TVR1.He pointed out that the vote of the Romanians in the elections to the European Parliament and the referendum matters."There are politicians who say that the European elections do not matter, the referendum does not matter. It is not so, the European elections matter, the referendum counts, because by voting the Romanians matter. You see, Romania is taken into account, we are a country that has the Presidency of the Council of the Union, this meeting in Sibiu, Romania matters and Romanians matter. The vote of the Romanians counts," the head of state said.He also argued that there are "populist leaders" in Romania who have an anti-European speech."If we talk about populist leaders, we have to admit that there are some, unfortunately, in Romania, and they are even known people, big party leaders who lately have had a rather anti-European speech, a speech against foreigners and so on. It is a pity because Romania deserves to have a pro-European political discourse. Romanians are pro-European, Romanians do not want to leave Europe, if we only think about the millions of Romanians who left the country and work everywhere in EU countries. They want to stay in Europe, we want to stay in Europe. But there are these populists who tell us that Europe is not the right solution, there are others who say the European Union needs to be dissolved, there are others who say that the European Union is the one that creates national problems. No, almost all the national problems are created wherever we have national politicians. Unfortunately, we must also put up with some politicians who, perhaps with the purpose of cleansing their files, have put the entire justice in difficulty," President Iohannis said. European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker said on Wednesday he wanted a summit of EU leaders in central Sibiu because he wanted to show leaders that the Union is not just Brussels. Ever since September 2007, I wanted to have the European Council in Sibiu, because I wanted to show that the European Union is not just Brussels (...). I'm not alone in Brussels, if I were alone in Brussels, things would be better, but I'm not alone in Brussels, Juncker said.He added that all the countries and national parliaments are part of Brussels. At the same time, the head of the European Commission also mentioned a personal detail about Sibiu.I wanted to show the rest of the Europeans that not only Brussels, Bucharest, Berlin exist. The European reality is here in towns and villages, but the real reason is that I have never been to Sibiu, but I always wanted to visit Sibiu, ever since I have been a premier, he confessed.He spoke with President Klaus Iohannis at a debate about the future of Europe, dedicated to young people.Asked by one of the participants why they were not invited to the informal summit on Thursday, Juncker replied: It is difficult to invite you all because there are already too many members coming to the Summit - 28 Member States ... tomorrow, 27 because the British will not be there.Juncker made a subtle reference to Brexit, confessing, during an address, that everybody understands English, but no one understands the English.The head of the European Commission also spoke about the European Parliament election and urged people to vote. In this respect, he said that in order to vote properly, every citizen must ask himself the question: If everyone votes as I do, what kind of European Union will we have?. NEW YORK, May 09, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Bernstein Liebhard LLP announced today that that approximately four weeks remain to file a motion for lead plaintiff in a class action lawsuit pending against Care.com, Inc. (Care.com or the Company) in the United States District Court for the District of Massachusetts on behalf of all persons or entities (the Class) who purchased the common stock of Care.com, Inc. (Care.com or the Company) (NYSE: CRCM) during the period between March 27, 2015 and April 1, 2019 (the Class Period). The complaint alleges that defendants violated Sections 10(b) and 20(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. If you wish to file a motion for lead plaintiff in the Care.com class action , you must move the Court no later than June 3, 2019. A lead plaintiff is a representative party acting on behalf of other class members in directing the litigation. Your ability to share in any recovery does not require that you serve as lead plaintiff. If you choose to take no action, you may remain an absent class member. Care.com purports to be the worlds largest online family care platform. The Company claims to help families make informed hiring decisions about caregivers. The complaint alleges that defendants made materially false and misleading statements regarding the Companys vetting procedures for care providers. Specifically, plaintiffs allege that defendants misleadingly touted the Companys proactive screening procedures. On March 8, 2019, a Wall Street Journal article revealed Care.coms ineffective screening procedures, reporting that care providers listed on the website had police recordsand later were accused of committing crimes while caring for customers children or elderly relatives. Care.coms stock dropped 13% after these revelations. On March 31, 2019, a follow-up Wall Street Journal article stated that hundreds of day-care centers listed as state licensed on the Care.com website did not appear to be, and that tens of thousands of unverified day-care center listings were scrubbed from the Care.com website just before the March 8, 2019 Wall Street Journal article was published. Care.coms stock dropped another 7% after these disclosures. If you purchased Care.com common stock, and/or would like to discuss your legal rights and options, please visit https://www.bernlieb.com/cases/care-crcm-lawsuit-class-action-fraud-stock-123/ or contact Joe Seidman toll free at (877) 779-1414 or seidman@bernlieb.com . Bernstein Liebhard LLP has pursued hundreds of securities, consumer, and shareholder rights cases and recovered over $3.5 billion for its clients. The Firm has been named to The National Law Journals Plaintiffs Hot List thirteen times and been listed in The Legal 500 for ten consecutive years. You can obtain a copy of the complaint by contacting the clerk of the court for the United District Court for the District of Massachusetts. ATTORNEY ADVERTISING. 2019 Bernstein Liebhard LLP. The law firm responsible for this advertisement is Bernstein Liebhard LLP, 10 East 40th Street, New York, New York 10016, (212) 779-1414. The lawyer responsible for this advertisement in the State of Connecticut is Michael S. Bigin. Prior results do not guarantee or predict a similar outcome with respect to any future matter. Contact Information Joe Seidman Bernstein Liebhard LLP http://www.bernlieb.com (877) 779-1414 seidman@bernlieb.com SOURCE Bernstein Liebhard LLP Related Links This year we will send a signal for strengthening the European project, Minister-delegate for European Affairs George Ciamba said on Thursday in a message on Europe Day. "May 9, 2019, is a very special day for Europe and for Romania. No less than 69 years ago, French Minister of Foreign Affairs Robert Schuman gave the first push that led to the creation of this revolutionary project that today we call the European Union. This year, on Europe Day, we will give the signal for the strengthening of the European project. The Union will move to another level and Romania is proud to contribute in this process, as a mature and fully committed member of the EU, and to contribute to the elaboration of the strategic vision for a future that responds to current challenges. In 2019, we are marking Europe Day as a Member State holding the presidency of the Council of the European Union for the first time, a real country project with implications for all European citizens. The Romanian Government has also tried to put its mark on the future of Europe as an honest broker, impartial actor, as a presidency that took into account the specific issues of each member state, with its central focus on unity and cohesion," Ciamba said in a message to AGERPRES.According to him, a solid and credible European Union must promote economic and social convergence, create policies that will reduce the development gaps between regions, between the old and the new members, to shape a budget that will help this ideas to materialize.He also showed Europe is defined by its tolerant spirit. Prime Minister Viorica Dancila says in a message sent on Europe Day that Romania will continue to be a supporter of the European project based on convergence, cohesion, solidarity and sustainable development, and our country wishes a strong European Union, where all member states receive equal, non-discriminatory treatment. "The European Union is a project in full change, which forces us to keep up with the present, so that the future does not surprise us. Romania is part of this project and we feel responsible, equally with the other member states, for the Europe we will leave to future generations. Romania will continue to be a supporter of the European project based on convergence, cohesion, solidarity and sustainable development. We remain deeply attached to European values and we want a strong European Union in which all member states benefit from equal, non-discriminatory treatment, irrespective of the size of the territory, geographic location or seniority in the EU," the prime minister said, according to a press release issued by the Government.According to the head of the Executive, the European project "was born out of a desire to live in peace and prosperity" and, in the current context, European citizens want a safe Union, able to provide solutions to new internal and external challenges and more active globally."Shaping the European future is a complex process in which decisions must take into account the expectations of the citizens expressed in the debates and the voice of their representatives in the European Parliament," said Dancila.She drew attention to the fact that Romania, as the state holding the presidency of the Council of the European Union, managed to unblock the discussions on several important issues for the European future.Romania is also responsible for organizing the European elections scheduled for the end of this month, 40 years after the first European Parliament elections.She added that, almost seven decades after the Schuman Declaration announcing the foundation of the European project that Romania is part of, our country looks "confidently towards their joint future and the efforts of those involved in its shaping." Prime Minister Viorica Dancila said on Thursday that she and President Klaus Iohannis could have completed each other at the informal summit of EU leaders in Sibiu, where she did not participate, and she could have introduced Romania's achievements to Europe. Citeste si: Greseala uriasa facuta Radu Mazare! Ce a declarat consulul Madagascarului "I have believed it very important for European leaders to see unity, to hear positive things about Romania and, given that the prime minister is the president of the Council of the European Union, to talk about our achievements, because we have very, very good achievements: 90 legislative files, while Bulgaria had 43 files in six months; Austria - 53 files in six months. Romania, in a much shorter period, from mid-January to April, managed to close hard files and 90 legislative files. (...) I believed that we could completed each other, the prime minister talking about the achievements of the Romanian Presidency, coming up with positive things and to show our work, because it is basically the work of Romania and of all Romanians, and the President of Romania talking about the future of the EU, starting precisely from these things. Especially because on May 1 I attended a meeting in Warsaw of my counterparts from Central and Eastern Europe, and we had the Warsaw Declaration in which we were sketching up precisely the future of the EU. The President of Romania did not want that to happen; I think I should not talk about it again. I hope, however, that the European leaders will leave with a good impression about Romania," Dancila said at the Cluj-Napoca University of Medicine and Pharmacy (UMF). Citeste si: Protestatarii #Rezist ies la atac, dupa ce au fost saltati de jandarmi! Noi nu discutam pe lege She met in Cluj-Napoca on Thursday local elected officers of the Social Democratic Party (PSD) and Cluj PSD MPs. At UMF she had a discussion with hospital managers of Cluj County and visited the local Oncological Institute. Citeste si: Lovitura fabuloasa data de RCS&RDS! Zeci de mii de romani au facut asta In several places in Cluj-Napoca, Dancila was greeted by protesters chanting anti-government slogans. Prime Minister Viorica Dancila on Thursday paid a visit to Cluj-Napoca, where she was met by protesters who chanted anti-government slogans. Around 200 protesters waited for PM Viorica Dancila to arrive at the Students' Culture House, while chanting anti-government slogans. Another 100 waited for her to arrive at the Institute of Oncology and the University of Medicine and Pharmacy, chanting, among other slogans "Thieves!," "Resignation!," "The Government must leave," "PSD, the red plague!," "Gendarmerie defends thieves!" Gendarmes and protesters also had an altercation at the Institute of Oncology, while gendarmes tried to empty a perimeter in front of the hospital and remove a banner placed by the protesters there. Among the protesters was also the USR (Save Romania Union) Senator Mihai Gotiu. Viorica Dancila on Thursday told a press conference she held at the University of Medicine and Pharmacy in Cluj that violence is the attribute of the weak. "We have divergent opinions, this is democracy, but the manner in which they act, the manner in which they do things, doesn't represent the Romanians. This violent manifestation, these ugly things, the offences show that they don't actually have other arguments. I believe that violence is the attribute of the weak, of those who do not have projects and have nothing to say to Romania, and then they do what they do. I don't understand them. If they are unpleased, they can speak of their dissatisfaction, they can bring anything that they consider to be wrong to the public opinion's attention. If you come to offend, to yell, I believe this is nothing you can be proud of and I believe that they should, first of all, analyze their behaviour, for what they do is probably taken over by the television channels and we have a Summit in Sibiu and I don't think this is a good idea. Not now and not later," said Viorica Dancila. PM Viorica Dancila on Thursday met in Cluj the locally elected Social Democrats in this county and the Social Democrat MPs from Cluj and she had a discussion at the University of Medicine and Pharmacy with the managers of Cluj hospitals and she visited the Institute of Oncology. President Klaus Iohannis carried out on Thursday a bilateral meeting with his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron, on the sidelines of the informal summit of the heads of state and government. The meeting of the European Council with President of the European Parliament Antonio Tajani took place in the first part of the day and it was followed by the family photography of the EU leaders, a mingle with the crowd and a working lunch held at the Brukenthal Museum. The second working session of the informal Summit of the EU leaders is currently taking place. At the end of the summit, President Klaus Iohannis will hold a joint press conference with European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker and European Council President Donald Tusk. AGERPRES President Klaus Iohannis, participating alongside European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker in a debate about Europe's future, organised at "Ion Besoiu" Centre in Sibiu, voiced on Wednesday night his dissatisfaction with what is going on in the European Union concerning the new generation of communications. "We live in a digital world, it is not something we have to prepare for because it is coming in the future and guess what: we are not ready! 5G is the future generation of communications and guess what: it is coming and it is in itself a form of artificial intelligence. Your phones will speak with your car, with your washing machines, with your air conditioner at home and if you are lucky you will understand, if not, too bad for you! My suggestion is to do something to understand because this is happening. (...) The European Commission has drawn up a series of documents on this matter and we are working on it but personally, I am not satisfied with what is going on in the European Union, I must be very honest," Iohannis said.He added that one of the EU's great accomplishments is the Single Market."We have managed to have a Single Market for production, industrial production, for goods. (...) Try bringing your phones abroad, in Romania they work well because we have fast networks, but if you go abroad phones do not work properly. If you try doing more complicated things, you realise that even if we have a Single Market we are far from a digital Single Market. (...) I believe we have still got a lot of work to do," the president maintained.In response, Jean-Claude Juncker affirmed he is not satisfied either with everything that is going on in Romania.The president said he is not content with everything that is going on in the European Union. Nor am I content with everything that is going on in Romania, the EC president said."We both believe that," President Iohannis said. The President of the Court of Accounts of Romania, Mihai Busuioc, had a meeting with the President of the National Assembly's Budget Committee of the People's Republic of China, Shi Yaobin, in the context of a visit paid by a Chinese delegation to Bucharest. The two high officials discussed issues related the existing exchange of experience and good practices meant to strengthen bilateral relations between Romania's Court of Account and the representatives of the legislative body of the People's Republic of China. "It is important for the relations between Romania and China that, besides the 70 years of bilateral relations, we also celebrate in 2019 15 years since the establishment of the Ample Friendship and Cooperation Partnership between our countries. I wish that the historical relation of friendship existing between the two peoples to materialize in Chinese investment projects in Romania, as it happens in other states in the European Union," was one of the messages sent by the President of the Romanian Court of Accounts. In his turn, the Chinese official hailed the existing relations between Romania and China and said he was open to continue the collaboration between the two countries. "This is my first visit to Romania and to the Court of Accounts of Romania. The fact that we celebrate 70 years of bilateral relations between Romania and China was an occasion for me to know your country and to bring you the friendship of the Chinese people for the Romanian people. As I also told my counterparts in Parliament and at the Ministry of Finance of Romania, investments in the citizens' welfare must take into account the budget that we have at our disposal," said Shi Yaobin. They further discussed a series of issues related to the work relations between the institutions active in the efficient management of public finance. The Chinese delegation, led by the President of the National Assembly's Budget Committee of the People's Republic of China, alongside the representatives of the Executive and the Embassy of the People's Republic of China to Bucharest, is currently paying an official to Romania upon the initiative of the Committee on Budget, Finance and banks of the Deputies Chamber - Romanian Parliament. The European Union leaders who came to the informal Summit were welcomed with flags and cheers in the Great Square of Sibiu and after they had the family photograph taken on a podium covered with a giant carpet depicting the EU flag, the Brussels leaders and the heads of state of the community bloc headed toward the crowd who chanted "Europe!." In the first part of the ceremony held on Thursday, the cars of the heads of state and government started to arrive in downtown Sibiu, with the leaders being greeted by President Klaus Iohannis.On either side of Nicolae Balcescu Boulevard, next to the small fences and waving flags with the logo of the Romanian Presidency at the EU Council or flags of the EU and Romania, the curious people awaited those who lead the European states.When German Chancellor Angela Merkel got out of the official car, she was cheered and applauded. Luxembourg's Prime Minister Xavier Bettel was more nonchalant. On his way to the Great Square, he stopped to shake the hands of some people, with whom he exchanged a few words.In order to enter the perimeter designated to the event, some people had to wait for good minutes to pass through security filters.On the red carpet, the European leaders who arrived in Sibiu talked about what kind of European Union they want, about the future elections to the European Parliament, but also about the idea of an Europe that protects. In fact, France's President Emmanuel Macron mentioned one of his favourite projects - a rethought Schengen.The EU leaders attended on Thursday a first round of the informal meeting of the European Council with President of the European Parliament Antonio Tajani.The official outdoor photograph was up next, after which all the attendees went to the Brukenthal Museum for a working lunch, which will be followed by a second working session of the informal Summit of the EU leaders.At the end of talks, they will present the "Sibiu Declaration," a document labelled in the speeches of several EU leaders as being an "ambitious" one. Romania will soon join the Schengen Area and will be free of the Cooperation and Verification Mechanism (CVM), on Thursday said President Klaus Iohannis, in central Sibiu, in the Big Square ahead of the EU informal Summit. "We have worked very hard and this matter - Schengen - has been addressed so many times. Even today I'll have a talk with the European leaders about Schengen. And yet things are not always as we imagine. Unfortunately, we have politicians who have shown Europe that we do not have just a nice side, unfortunately, we also have politicians who attack the Judiciary, we have politicians who sadly attack the European bodies, as well. And, given the circumstances, instead of moving forward, of being fully accepted, in the Schengen Area, included, those talks about the rule of law in Romania have occurred, talks that obviously were commenced by our politicians who want something different than the good of Romania," the president said.Klaus Iohannis stressed that Romanians want to be Europeans, adding "I promise you we will remain [Europeans, ed. n.] and I can also promise you that shortly, probably not today, but soon, we will be in the Schengen Are and will be free of the CVM." Re-founding Schengen is absolutely essential, French President Emmanuel Macron said on Thursday in Sibiu. "We need a Europe that protects us and so we need to have a Europe that protects Europeans at its borders and, in this regard, for me, re-founding Schengen - having real protection - is absolutely essential," Macron said ahead of the informal Summit of EU heads of state and government.The President of France pointed out that this is also one of the desiderata of the meeting in Sibiu. He also mentioned that, "speaking of the future, the true ambition" is climate. Thus, President Macron brought to mind that France, together with eight member states, signed an agreement compelling them to reduce CO2 emissions to zero, until 2050.Emmanuel Macron also spoke about the desideratum of a new economic and social growth model at EU level.He also said that the Declaration in Sibiu, which will be presented at the end of the informal Summit, is an "ambitious" one. Dublin, May 09, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "5G: The Greatest Show On Earth! Volume 3: Vikings Vs. Bears" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. The author conducted a benchmark study of the Verizon Wireless 5G NR networks in Minneapolis and Chicago. Although data speeds are interesting, the author focused their efforts on metrics that have far more implications on the long-term prospects for 5G NR, operating in millimetre wave frequencies and supporting eMBB use cases. This work also includes the Interdependencies between 5G NR and LTE. Highlights of the Report: Thanks - This study was done in collaboration with Accuver Americas, Rohde & Schwarz, and Spirent Communications who provided the author with their respective test equipment, which is identified in the report. The author did all the testing and analysis of the data and they are solely responsible for the commentary in the report. Methodology - The author captured chipset diagnostic messages from up to two Motorola Z3 smartphones with/without the 5G Moto Mod, as well as scanner information in the two networks. Using sustained, high bandwidth data transfers (UDP and TCP), they performed walk tests and drive tests, not to mention sensitivity studies involving grip, device positioning, and sudden turns. We also did multiple user experience tests involving popular applications to determine if the applications and services took full advantage of the network capabilities. The Results - Although the author observed sustained PDSCH Layer data speeds of 1.1 to 1.2 Gbps on numerous occasions and a peak data speed of at least 1.5 Gbps, they believe the long-term prospects for millimetre wave are better defined by parameters, such as BRSRP and BSINR, and how these parameters are impacted by distance as well as near/non-line-of-site conditions. RF reflections remain alive and well. A bit "Wonky" - Although the network performance was a bit wonky, it wasn't a direct result of millimetre wave, or at least the issues the author documented can easily be overcome. Device/modem stability, support for beam management, increased utilization and more efficient use of the 5G NR radio channels top the list, as does improving the interdependencies with the LTE network. The use of 1,024 element arrays in the gNB radio and/or the mixed use of wide beams and narrow beams will further improve coverage and capacity. The Importance of LTE - When operators deploy 5G NR FR2, they frequently use a small cell architecture. As the author witnessed in their tests, and in an earlier series of small cell studies, there is a substantial capacity gain with LTE and small cells. Furthermore, operators are also taking advantage of LAA. In the case of Verizon, the Motorola Z3 (w/ 5G Moto Mod) simultaneously used five LTE carriers, including three unlicensed bands in Chicago. A Paradigm Shift - 5G NR FR2 doesn't need to provide ubiquitous coverage, especially once operators deploy 5G NR in cellular bands and incorporate carrier aggregation. Given the results of user experience tests, it is clear that 5G NR FR2 isn't about peak speeds to individual users, but the total capacity that it offers. Companies Mentioned Accuver Americas Motorola Rohde & Schwarz Spirent Communications Verizon Key Topics Covered 1. Executive Summary 2. Key Observations 3. Aggregate Results and Analysis 4. Detailed Results for Select Test Scenarios 4.1 KPIs versus Cell Site Distance 4.2 Chicago Walk Test 4.3 Interesting Millimeter Wave Behavior 4.3.1 PCI 229 (with a little help from PCI 49, PCI 50 and PCI 227) 4.3.2 PCI 107 4.3.3 PCI 99 5. User Experience and Sensitivity Test Results 5.1 Popular Applications 5.2 Grip 5.3 Portrait versus Landscape and Circular Movement 5.4 LAA versus 5G NR FR2 5.5 UDP Versus TCP 6. Test Methodology 7. Final Thoughts For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/az89kt Research and Markets also offers Custom Research services providing focused, comprehensive and tailored research. The guests of the EU Sibiu Summit were welcomed on Wednesday with Romanian traditional food and folk music offered by Junii Sibiului professional ensemble which will perform on Thursday night as well, in the Big Square, in the end of the event with the EU leaders, according to a post on the ensemble's Facebook page. "#SearaTraditionalaRomaneasca / RomanianTraditionalNight at Boyar's Pantry - Hilton Sibiu for the EU Summit guests" is the message posted on the said Facebook page by choreographer and manager of the ensemble Silvia Macrea.The Boyar's Pantry is a traditionally designed venue where only specific Romanian cuisine goodies are served. The venue is located at the 5-star hotel of Sibiu where on Wednesday took place the National Liberal Party (PNL)'s Executive Bureau attended by President Klaus Iohannis, the President of the European People's Party (EPP) Joseph Daul and the Secretary General of the EPP, Antonio Lopez-Isturiz White. It is the hotel where most of the EU leaders have checked-in.The participants in the Sibiu EPP Summit on Thursday, at the open-air museum of Dumbrava Sibiului will have the opportunity to see over 100 craftspeople show their mastery to mark Europe Day, in an action dubbed "Rural Europe", says a press release sent to AGERPRES."The ASTRA Museum, the activities of which are made possible through financing from the Sibiu County Council, organizes on Thursday, May 9, the 'Rural Europe' event. This is a large-scale initiative that will see over 100 traditional craftsmen from all over the country involved in 40 different interactive workshops, which will be set up in the Dumbrava Sibiului Open-air Museum, to mark Europe Day, when the EU leaders will be present here," the press release by the ASTRA Museum reads.On Thursday night, on the stage of the Big Square (Piata Mare) nearby the City Hall headquarters, where the EU Summit is taking place, the "Cindrelul - Junii Sibiului" Folklore professional ensemble prepared a striking show particularly for this occasion. On the Big Square stage, a voyage across the most important ethnographic regions of Romania will be illustrated through play and music.The concept by Silvia Macrea, the manager of the ensemble and one of the choreographers of the May 9 show, will unfold the 75-year history of the Junii Sibiului via photographs, followed by a tour de force and grace through the traditions of Transylvania, Moldavia and Wallachia. The regions of Banat and Maramures will contribute with beautiful wedding customs, spirited by soloists Stana Stepanescu and Oana Tomoioaga. The end of the show will bring back the spectators to Sibiu, on the Valea Tarnavelor, an area reputed for its vast vineyards and their good old wine. The choreography of the show is fathered by Theodor Vasilescu and Silvia Macrea, while the music is conducted by maestro Gabriel Popescu.On May 9, the centre city of Sibiu is for one day the political capital of the European Union, with the meeting of the EU Member States' heads of state or government. The European Union stands united behind the Republic of Cyprus and expects Turkey to respect sovereign rights of the EU member states, European Council President Donald Tusk stated on Thursday, when referring to Turkey's intentions to start drilling activities in the Mediterranean Sea. "The European Council will continue to follow these developments closely," Tusk stated. In a message published on Friday by the NAVTEX international maritime messaging service, the Turkish authorities announced their intention to start gas drilling operations until September in a portion of the Mediterranean Sea which - according to the Cypriot media - enters the exclusive economic area of Cyprus. A wreath laying ceremony was held in observance of May 9 at the Monument to the WWII Homeland Heroes, near the "Carol I" National Defense University in Bucharest, attended by Defense Minister Gabriel Les and acting Justice Minister Ana Birchall. Besides Europe Day, May 9 marks the celebration of Romania's Independence Day and Victory Day - commemorating the surrender of Nazi Germany to the Allied forces.A group of priests celebrated a memorial service to those who died in the war. Flower wreaths were laid on behalf of several state institutions and veteran associations."May 9 has a special significance for Romania. Today we celebrate together Romania's State Independence, the Victory of the WWII Allies and Europe Day. We bow with respect and gratitude to the heroes of the Romanian nation and look with confidence to the future we owe to their sacrifice. Many happy returns, Romania! Respect to sacrifice! Honor to the veterans!," is the message posted on Thursday on the Facebook page of the Ministry of National Defense."I was honored to attend the military and religious ceremony with the laying of wreaths and sprays at the Monument to the Homeland Heroes today, on a truly special day with triple significance: Romania's Independence Day, the Victory Day of WWII Allies and Europe Day," Ana Birchall wrote on Facebook. TALLASSEE, Ala., May 09, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- MilanaPharm, a specialty pharmaceutical company focused on the development of innovative, non-opioid pharmaceutical solutions for wound management and pain, announced today that it received a Notice of Allowance from the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) for its patent application entitled TOPICAL FORMULATIONS AND TREATMENTS. The allowed claims cover a method of treating pain in chronic open wounds such as venous leg ulcers, diabetic leg ulcers, abdominal wounds, vasculitic ulcers, abrasions, burns and pressure ulcers in nonmucosal tissue. According to the examiner, the invention provides an unexpectedly superior delivery of the lidocaine over a prolonged period of time, which is not recognized by the prior art. The patent is based on MilanaPharms novel drug delivery platform, TRI-726. This proprietary technology is intended to provide sustained release of an active agent, topically, to a target area. Jim Harwick, President of MilanaPharm, said, We are pleased that the USPTO has allowed this patent covering our proprietary topical formulation of Lidocaine. With nearly 7 million Americans suffering from painful chronic wounds and a growing opioid crisis, we believe our novel approach to pain management will play a role in improving quality of life and reducing opioid dependence. Upon issuance of this new patent, MilanaPharm intends to seek potential commercialization partners within the United States. Harrys founders, Andy Katz-Mayfield and Jeff Raider, will become co-presidents of Edgewells U.S. operations when the deal closes, expected in early 2020. This is not a situation where were going to get lost inside of some larger company, Katz-Mayfield said in a conference call with analysts. What was really compelling about the combination was our ability to take on bigger roles and have more impact. Harrys becomes the latest shaving startup to combine forces with a major consumer brand company. Unilever bought Dollar Shave Club for $1 billion in 2016. Last year, Gillettes parent company, Procter & Gamble, bought Walker & Co., marketer of the Bevel, a shaving brand aimed at black consumers. The Harrys brand steps on to a much larger stage, a global one, and will be marketed through Edgewells enormous distribution channels. The company has a footprint in 50 markets. Outside of the U.S., Edgewell has operations in Canada, Mexico, Germany, Japan and Australia. Edgewell also owns the brands Banana Boat and Hawaiian Tropic and Wet Ones wipes. A sense of disorientation is a wholly appropriate response to a movie in which the past is both irretrievable and unshakable. But even at its most openly baffling, Long Days Journey Into Night never loses its seductive pull. You learn to follow not the flow of exposition but rather the flow of images, as Bi invests crucial motifs a broken clock, a pomelo fruit, a book containing a magic spell with a piercing, almost totemic significance. And then, just when it seems to have reached its formal limits, the picture triumphantly slips its own representational bonds. Halfway through, Luo enters a theater and dons a pair of 3D glasses, your cue to do the same. Immediately, you are transported alongside him into a gorgeous nocturnal landscape, gently borne aloft by the steady, graceful movement of the camera. (Yao Hung-i, Dong Jingsong and David Chizallet are credited as directors of photography.) Without blinking or looking away, that camera floats after Luo as he emerges from a dark cavern, rides a motorbike along a road and then zip lines down into a mountain village with a billiard parlor, where still more beguiling encounters await. Judi Dench is the one marquee name associated with the movie Red Joan. But really, with her on board, who needs more than one? Yet as good as she is, the actress is little more than the framing device for this polished and morally provocative yet hardly pulse-pounding tale, loosely based on the life of English spy Melita Norwood. (In her 80s, Norwood, hardly a household name, was exposed for handing atomic secrets to the Russians, dating back to World War II.) Opening with the 2000 arrest of Denchs fictionalized Joan Stanley, and structured as a series of police interrogations, the story is largely told in flashbacks, beginning in 1938, as a young Joan (Sophie Cookson) is gradually radicalized by her Communist lover, Leo (Tom Hughes), and recruited by the KGB. My little comrade, Leo calls her, over and over. WEBSTER GROVES The chief executive of a child welfare agency and alternative school here who was charged Tuesday with endangering the welfare of a child was seen on video choking a youth, according to court documents. Vincent Damian Hillyer, CEO of Great Circle, also ordered employees to falsify reports about the child, court records say. Hillyer, of Hillington Court in Eureka, was charged Tuesday with six counts of endangering the welfare of a child in the first degree, all felonies, a count of attempting to endanger the welfare of a child in the second degree, a felony, and a count of assault in the fourth degree, a misdemeanor. Great Circle provides behavioral health services to thousands of children statewide through its counseling centers, home services and campuses, including an alternative school that offers boarding in Webster Groves. The school is one of five serving children in state custody and students with mental illness and learning disabilities whose public school is unable to serve them. ST. LOUIS A man upset after his cousin accused him of stealing $600 threatened to kill her Wednesday night, so she called police. He waited until they left to make his move, police say. Rodney Roberson, 23, returned to his cousins home in the 4800 block of Kossuth Avenue just before 9:30 p.m. and put a rifle to a mans head, threatening to kill him, police said. He then forced his way into his cousins apartment, according to court documents. She hid in her mothers bedroom, along with her mothers boyfriend. Roberson kicked in the door and shot her mothers boyfriend multiple times, according to the documents. He was in critical and unstable condition Thursday at a hospital. Roberson then fired into another bedroom, missing a 16-year-old girl and a 5-year-old boy, according to court documents Roberson went outside and fired into another apartment in the building, charges say. The 7.62-caliber rifle rounds pierced the walls and struck two people who were hiding in a closet after hearing the earlier shots. One was hit in the left shoulder and the other was grazed in the elbow, according to the documents. ST. LOUIS COUNTY A credit union is offering a $10,000 reward for information leading to the arrest of a man who robbed a South County branch last week. The man robbed the Electro Savings Credit Union on Tesson Ferry Road near Interstate 270 about 6 p.m. on May 2. He entered the credit union and threatened employees with a handgun, demanding money. He was given an undisclosed amount of cash and then fled. The man is described as white, possibly in his late 40s, and 6 feet tall with a thin build and a mustache. Authorities say he should be considered armed and dangerous. Police said the man may not be from the St. Louis area. Authorities asked anyone with information to contact CrimeStoppers online or at 1-866-371-8477. JEFFERSON COUNTY A Wentzville man pleaded guilty in federal court Thursday, admitting that as a member of a white supremacist gang he helped brutally assault a man in 2013 by using a burning log to remove a gang tattoo. Daniel B. Jerome, 31, of Wentzville, pleaded guilty to assault resulting in serious bodily injury in the aid of racketeering Thursday as part of a plea agreement laying out a sentence of five years in prison. He is set to be officially sentenced Aug. 7. In the agreement, Jerome said he assaulted a fellow member of a white supremacist gang, the Aryan Circle, at a park in Fenton on Nov. 9, 2013. Jerome said he met up with a group of other Aryan Circle members that day at George Winter Park and they set up a bonfire near the Meramec River, according to the plea. The group drank beer around the fire for about an hour and a half before one of the members directed Jerome and another man to pick up one of the gangs members who he believed had switched to another faction within Aryan Circle. According to Jeromes plea agreement: House Speaker Elijah Haahr, R-Springfield, did not refer MONA to the House General Laws Committee until April 17, with a month left before the end of session. Since all bills must be referred to committee, referring them late in session is a common tactic for legislative leaders who don't want to see a bill become law. Some bills are referred on the last day, or soon before, meaning they rarely receive a hearing. Other bills referred late are given what are known as "courtesy hearings." "I do think that the conversation on MONA is a good one for the Legislature to have," Haahr said last week. "I think that's what the committee process is for, to work through the issue and to figure out if there's a path forward for it." Razer told the Post-Dispatch that if the chambers can push through a proposal to lure investment from GM within the last two weeks, lawmakers could also approve MONA. The leadership has made it a priority, Razer said, referring to the GM bill. Were going to get it done. We can do the same for MONA. Carlsbad, CA, May 09, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- As Southern Californias #1 Independent Brokerage continues to create a bigger foothold in San Diego, local brokerages are presented with an unrivaled opportunity to grow their business and join the team. First Team has served as a beacon of success for real estate specialists in Southern California, becoming the fastest growing brokerage in San Diego County. Just this year alone, prominent San Diego real estate groups such as Sea Coast Exclusive Properties and Sand & Sea Investments have joined the First Team family in order to strengthen the resources available to their agents and to their community. Now, founder and broker of Premiere RE Group George Piner is joining the family. Our family values perfectly align with First Teams sense of community and core values, explained George Piner. I have made a commitment to take care of my agents, and this acquisition will provide them with the systems, tools, resources, infrastructure, and personnel that First Team is so well known for. With over 22 years in the industry and with 300 agents in his company, George will be able to provide his agents with an overabundance of marketing resources and strategic luxury partnerships that will be instrumental in giving them a higher level of branding. With about $400 million in sales volume, Premiere RE Group has successfully navigated the San Diego market, aligning with First Teams $5.4 billion1 earned just last year. Supporting community development and growth across San Diego County has been our focus, stated President of First Team Michael Mahon, and Premiere RE Group will help us to care for those in the community, developing resources for a brighter future for all to share. The brokerages development continues to expand: with over 2,200 real estate professionals already throughout Southern California, First Team now has over 460 agents specifically serving the San Diego areajust from its acquisitions this year to date. This acquisition, explained First Team founder and CEO Cameron Merage, further embeds us in the San Diego market as the dominant brokerage. When two companies come together with the same values of ethics, service, and family culture, the community benefits from it. First Team continues to lead the real estate industry to more customer-based, family-oriented values. As an independent brokerage, First Team enacts their goal of making a difference in the communities they call home by welcoming other firms like Premiere RE Group into a promising bond that will grow exponentially in volume and in community involvement. 1 TrendGraphix Attachment The ill-fated proposal on in-state tuition came from Sen. Jason Holsman, D-Kansas City. In the conference committee Tuesday, he had offered what he called a compromise allowing state money for in-state tuition but still banning state scholarships for the students as the panel was debating funding for higher education. That language was ultimately embedded in the budget after two Senate Republicans sided with the committees four Democrats. House Budget Chairman Cody Smith, R-Carthage, opposed the new language. He said colleges are only able to charge in-state tuition because of the states financial support. Because of this, he suggested taxpayers would in effect be condoning illegal behavior if the students in question were given in-state tuition. He said nothing would stop state schools from raising private money to help the students attend school. The affected students live here, Holsman said Tuesday. And theyve grown up here. But Ryder noted that the email discussed by Jamboretz did not concern the marketing contract for Rallos Cardinal Creative Consulting. On the Cardinal Creative deal, which is what the newspaper was asking about at the time, Rallo was treated differently because he was a donor and Stenger instructed Sweeney to get Rallo the contract. Jamboretz, a former news anchor for KPLR-TV (Channel 11), left the Partnership earlier this year to join Common Ground Public Relations in Chesterfield as an account supervisor. Interviewed on Wednesday, she said she still considered herself a journalist and did not mean to mislead another journalist. Im speaking to them in a text chain with extremely limited knowledge of what actually happened, she said. Because from where I sat at that point, Sheila was telling me we dealt squarely with John Rallo and I have this email to prove it. And I said, if you have the email, go and use it. As this has progressed, it has made me understand how very little I was in on, she said. And to be abundantly clear, I have never been contacted by any investigators, but if they want to talk to me, I would be happy to sit down and be fully transparent. Crafting Stengers lies Osborn also helped start the Reinvest North County Fund after the fatal police shooting of Michael Brown in Ferguson. In a partnership of the RBC, North County Inc. and the St. Louis Community Foundation, about $950,000 was distributed to 55 businesses and four school districts over two years. The RBC has also worked toward creating a professional culture that is more diverse and inclusive, sponsoring a group of about 4,200 young professionals from diverse backgrounds committed to bettering St. Louis, Osborn said Wednesday. A meeting of the group led to an effort to clean up vacant lots in St. Louis and demolish abandoned buildings in high-crime neighborhoods by bringing together James Clark, from Better Family Life, and Doug Weible, CEO of Fred Weber. Lets channel that commitment and energy and reinvigorate the St. Louis Region, Osborn said. Osborn, of University City, is the third woman to be named Citizen of the Year since the awards inception in 1955. The first was Blanche Touhill, in 1997, when she was chancellor of UMSL. With Touhills selection, the name of the award was changed from Man of the Year. Osborn worked for Touhill at the time. 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. ST. LOUIS Katy Sullivan, a graduate of Webster University, will give the school's commencement address on Saturday at the Muny. The university's 100th commencement ceremony will also mark 200,000 graduates from the school that opened in 1915. Sullivan received a bachelor's of fine arts from Webster in 2002 and went on to television and stage acting, writing and producing. She was born without both of her lower legs and is a four-time champion U.S. paralympian in the 100-meter race. At the ceremony, Sullivan will be awarded an honorary doctorate. St. Louis College of Pharmacy's 151st commencement ceremony will also be held Saturday with an address from Peter Vlasses, executive director of the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education. Vlasses plans to retire from the position on June 30 after 20 years of leading the council. Graduates from the pharmacy school include 253 students receiving doctoral degrees and 166 students earning bachelor's degrees. New York businessman and politician Michael Bloomberg will give the commencement speech at Washington University on May 17. Those are issues that will expire with this administration in two or six years. But Trump's refusal to comply with long traditions governing the relationship between Congress and the presidency cut to the core of American democracy and could change it for future generations. The President's presumptive claim of executive privilege over the entire un-redacted Mueller report after Democrats had issued a subpoena demanding its handover goes further than his previous efforts to evade congressional oversight, crossing an important line. If the gambit stands, it suggests a President can simply ignore the tools designed for Congress to check his power and examine his actions and he will face no significant sanction. Once this threshold is crossed there may be no going back for future administrations. "This is not a normal partisan event, because the President is invoking executive privilege in an extremely broad way," said Corey Brettschneider, professor of political science at Brown University. It should be astounding that Republicans want to investigate FBI officials a goal pressed during the Judiciary Committee debate by Rep. Jim Jordan, R-Ohio, for daring to do their jobs investigating the Trump campaigns potential Russian ties. But whats more astonishing is that we are no longer surprised that members of Trumps party would undercut work aimed at protecting our democracy from intrusion by a hostile foreign power in order to aggrandize a scam artist. His latest boast, by the way, is that he avoided taxes for sport. With Republicans cheering on Trumps campaign to block Congress access to witnesses and documents, House Democrats have fewer and fewer options short of impeachment to establish that the rule of law still exists. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has been hoping for a more decorous process. Ideally, the House would hold hearings and increase public awareness about the charges against Trump without having to rush the issue of whether the president should be removed. On Wednesday, she voiced her frustration over seeing this option strangled by Trumps witness gag-order. She even introduced a new phrase into the political lexicon during a Washington Post interview, saying the president was becoming self-impeachable. The consensus was reached during a working session between representatives from the two commissions in Vientiane on May 8. They said the move aims to raise public awareness, especially among young generations, about the traditional relations between the two Parties, States and peoples, as well as reform achievements in each country. The two sides reviewed the implementation of their cooperation agreement and exchanged experience in the instruction and management work. Sipaseut Senvavath, deputy head of the Lao commission, shared experience in rejecting inaccurate information and that in personnel training, especially workforce in the social network. The Lao commission will intensify cooperation with its Vietnamese counterpart in all-level delegation exchanges and personnel training in localities, particularly in border provinces, he said. Bui Truong Giang, deputy head of the Vietnamese Commission, said Laos experience would be applicable in Vietnam, especially the use of the social network and media in opposing wrongful viewpoints by hostile forces and self-evolution of officials and Party members. The officials also compared notes on measures to enhance the bilateral collaboration for the time ahead, focusing on information and education work, science-technology, training and document collection. The same day, Giang and his entourage paid a courtesy visit to head of the Lao Party Central Committees Commission for Propaganda and Training Kikeo Khaykhamphithun. They are scheduled to have working sessions with representatives of the Lao Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism and Pasaxon (The people) newspaper. NEW YORK, May 09, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- MagnaCare , a leader in health plan management, network rental, medical management, and casualty solutions, today announced it has been honored with a Bronze Stevie Award for Rebranding/Brand Renovation of the Year. MagnaCares new brand identity includes a modern logo and fully redesigned website, advancing the MagnaCare brand among both new audiences and current clients. By investing in this extensive rebranding process, we elevate the brand without sacrificing the familiar integrity that has resonated with our clients for years, said Michelle Zettergren, President, MagnaCare. MagnaCares greatest strength has been the powerful client relationships weve built in working towards ensuring the health of our communities, and were excited to carry this legacy forward with a refreshed logo and website. For more than 25 years, MagnaCare has provided quality health care services to a core Labor audience as well as brokers, TPAs, and Workers Compensation and no-fault payors. To kick off its rebrand, MagnaCare launched an extensive fact-finding stage, including a series of client roundtables and independent research, to determine the specific needs and expectations of its customers. From this, a strategic brand framework was developed to inform all communications. The result was a new logo, refreshed visual identity, and an updated website designed to maximize ease of navigability and streamline the user experience. The updated website features new web pages rich in content, presenting a more comprehensive view of the products and services MagnaCare offers, ultimately adding to the enhanced user experience. The goal of our rebranding was to balance our legacy of exceptional responsiveness to our client needs with our ambitious vision to be the leader in Labor benefits and health plan management services, said Rosemary Chowallur, VP of Marketing at MagnaCare. We are thrilled to be recognized by the American Business Awards for our efforts to provide even better support to our existing customers while appealing to new audiences. The American Business Awards are the premier business awards program in the U.S.A. This year, the total number of nominations exceeded 3,700 from organizations of all sizes across industries. More than 200 professionals worldwide participated in the judging process to select this years Stevie Award winners. For more information about The American Business Awards and the list of 2018 Stevie winners, visit: www.StevieAwards.com/ABA . About MagnaCare For more than 25 years, MagnaCare has been building health communities together with Taft-Hartley funds, TPAs, carriers, and workers compensation and no-fault payors in the New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut tri-state area. Its broad and wholly owned network, full health plan management services, comprehensive in-house medical management, and leading outcomes-based casualty solutions offer the ultimate flexibility and customization that help customers control health care costs, improve health, and achieve exceptional value. MagnaCare is a division of Brighton Health Plan Solutions , LLC. Visit www.magnacare.com www.facebook.com/magnacare www.twitter.com/magnacare . About the Stevie Awards Stevie Awards are conferred in seven programs: the Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards, the German Stevie Awards, The American Business Awards, The International Business Awards, the Stevie Awards for Women in Business, the Stevie Awards for Great Employers, and the Stevie Awards for Sales & Customer Service. Stevie Awards competitions receive more than 12,000 entries each year from organizations in more than 70 nations. Honoring organizations of all types and sizes and the people behind them, the Stevies recognize outstanding performances in the workplace worldwide. Learn more about the Stevie Awards at http://www.StevieAwards.com. The tobacco industry is strongly on board. But it isnt overly cynical or paranoid to suggest, as health advocates are now doing, that this isnt the sea change it might appear for a nicotine-addiction industry that historically has targeted underage consumers. A clear pattern is evident in states that have already passed laws raising the minimum tobacco purchasing age to 21: The industry gets behind the measure, making sure it gets passed with minimal enforcement mechanisms for that higher age. The result is that it has no real impact on kids buying tobacco. Then the industry stands firm against more effective measures like tax hikes and flavored-vapor bans on the argument that theyve already addressed the issue. Is it unfair to suggest that McConnell, who has long demonstrated his dedication to both the tobacco industry and Machiavellian politics, is capable of such disingenuous maneuvering? Politico tried to find out by asking his office, after the new legislation was widely announced, whether McConnell would also be open to a flavored-vapor ban. Suddenly, his office wasnt answering questions. Theres no proof the donors or Parson have done anything wrong. Of course, the same could have been said, for years, of Stenger, the former St. Louis County executive whose donors were continually getting official favors while giving him money. It took federal investigators to prove those circumstances werent just suspicious, but criminal. Even absent a crime, the act of giving money to politicians who can influence who gets those marijuana licenses and what regulations will apply to them creates an appearance of such impropriety that it diminishes public trust in government. One solution would be a ban on any political donations from people seeking or receiving marijuana licensing. Or, Parson and other officials could simply declare publicly that they wont accept such donations. After all, Parson pledged in November that he would uphold the highest ethical standards. LONDON, May 09, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- A report from The Business Research Company shows that the global bottled water market size is expected to grow from around 435 billion liters in 2017 to 625 billion liters in 2021 by volume, at an annual rate of nearly 9.3%. The bottled water industry includes establishments involved in purifying and bottling water. Companies in the bottled water industry are mainly involved in purifying water, and packaging, marketing and distributing it in the form of bottled or canned water. The bottled water products are further sold to either the distributors or end user outlets. Distributors in the bottled water industry charge commissions on the products depending on several factors such as availability, pricing and relationship with the bottled water companies. The end users of bottled water products include institutions and retail customers. Institutional customers include establishments such as restaurants, offices and hotels. According to the bottled water market analysis, the global bottled water market is highly fragmented with a large number of local players present in most countries. The leading players in the global bottled water market that have a multi-country presence include DANONE, Nestle Waters, Coca-Cola and Pepsi-Co. Nestle Waters was the largest competitor in the bottled water market in 2017, followed by Danone, Hangzhou Wahaha Group Co., Ltd., Coca-Cola, Nongfu Spring Limited, Tingyi (Cayman Islands) Holding Corp and Pepsi-Co. Request A Sample Of Global Bottled Water Market Research Report: https://www.thebusinessresearchcompany.com/sample.aspx?id=789&type=smp . Bottled Water Global Market Opportunities And Strategies To 2021 https://www.thebusinessresearchcompany.com/report/bottled-water-market is one of a series of new reports from The Business Research Company that provides bottled water market overviews, analyzes and forecasts bottled water market size and growth for the global bottled water market, bottled water market share, bottled water market players, bottled water market size, bottled water market segments and geographies, bottled water market trends, bottled water market drivers and bottled water market restraints, bottled water markets leading competitors revenues, profiles and market shares. The bottled water market report identifies top countries and segments for opportunities and strategies based on market trends and leading competitors approaches. The Business Research Company has over 300 industry reports, covering over 2400 market segments and 56 geographies. Contact Information: The Business Research Company Europe: +44 207 1930 708 Asia: +91 8897263534 Email: info@tbrc.info by Austin Bay May 8, 2019 Spies have always targeted more than military secrets. Gathering political intelligence and compromising personal information on enemy leaders is as old as our species. "Spying for profit" (economic gain) is old news, though globalization has increased the value of commercial and financial data. Likewise, spies have long pursued what we now call "proprietary knowledge," particularly when the intellectual property -- which originally indicated a creative intellect owned it -- involved technology having current or potential military application. However, communist China's pervasive and relentless spy operation targeting American scientific, commercial and economic creativity has no historical precedent. Dictatorships fear creativity. But Beijing's dictatorial clique isn't stupid. It covets American creativity's economic, military and sociocultural benefits. Medical breakthroughs have enormous benefits. On April 19, The Houston Chronicle, in collaboration with Science magazine, published a thoroughly sourced investigative report. It detailed invasive and pervasive Chinese espionage at what is arguably the world's premier cancer research facility, the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, which is located in Houston. Beijing's operational objective: By targeting MD Anderson and its affiliates in the Texas Medical Center, China's communist elites seek to steal the creative genius, decades of training and years of cancer research of some of the world's finest specialists and most brilliant doctors. Beijing covets their knowledge because, when applied, it has great economic and political value. For example, China could produce and sell high-value, high-prestige pharmaceuticals, and improve its own medical programs, without spending a yuan on research. The Houston Chronicle said on the macroeconomic cost: "After a 2017 report that found intellectual-property theft by China costs the U.S. as much as $600 billion annually, FBI Director Christopher Wray called China 'the broadest, most significant' threat to the nation and said its espionage is active in all 50 states." Beijing is filching American investment capital. China's communist masters are ripping off American and Texan taxpayers, who by and large pay the bill for MD Anderson's operations and research projects. Now for some more Houston Chronicle details. In 2015, federal investigators informed several research institutions that they employed professors who were violating supporting agency policies. In 2017, the cancer center gave the FBI "computer hard drives containing emails for several of its staff members." Last month's report says that The National Institutes of Health provided evidence "describing conflicts of interest or unreported foreign income by five faculty members." As a result of the FBI and internal investigation, the center fired three scientists identified as trying to help China steal "U.S. scientific research." And this: "In the past 18 months ... 10 MD Anderson senior researchers or administrators of Chinese descent have retired, resigned or been placed on administrative leave." Chinese government apologists now scream "profiling" and racist discrimination. The truth is, China's dictatorship abuses ethnic Chinese. Sen. Dianne Feinstein thought an ethnic Chinese man working in her Bay Area office was trustworthy. In 2013, when Feinstein was chair of the Senate Intelligence Committee, the FBI identified the employee as a Chinese Ministry of State Security "asset" -- an intelligence source. The man was forcibly retired. The FBI concluded he had never passed on useful information. The senator insists the FBI assured her there was no "compromise of national security information." But Feinstein's focus on national security espionage is deplorably narrow. Witness the vulnerability of institutions like MD Anderson. The San Francisco Chronicle reported Feinstein's employee was "a liaison to the Asian American community." Beijing keeps close tabs on overseas Chinese. It targets students, professionals in hi-tech and the sciences, and their support staff. I'll wager Feinstein's employee provided personal information that Beijing's intelligence pros could use to identify individuals -- of any ethnicity -- who might be blackmailed or beguiled into providing commercial, political and national security intelligence, or even recruited as spies. The Fulani tribes and their fondness for violence and Islamic terrorism have caused a major problem for Mali, Niger, Burkino Faso and Nigeria. The Fulani are the largest single ethnic group in the Sahel (the semi-desert zone between the Sahara desert and well-watered land to the south). There are about 40 million Fulani and more than half of them are in Mali, Niger, Burkino Faso and Nigeria. Only about a third of Fulani are nomadic herders and 90 percent are Moslem. The majority of Fulani, especially the non-nomadic tribes, are often prominent in business and politics where they have settled down. For example, current, and recently reelected president of Nigeria is a Fulani, and he has to deal with the largest Fulani population (about 37 percent of all Fulani) in Africa and the source of most current mayhem in Nigeria. The Islamic terrorist Boko Haram come in second. But while the Fulani are only about eight percent of the population in Nigeria, a smaller number (about three million) are about 16 percent of the Mali population and prominent in the growing tribal (nomad versus farmer) and Islamic terrorist violence. The aggressive Fulani herders are the main cause of the current crises in central Mali (where most Fulani live). The herder versus farmer friction is made worse by the fact that Fulani are also the biggest supporters of the JNIM (Jamaah Nusrah al Islam wal Muslimin, or Group for the support of Islam and Moslems) al Qaeda coalition. This organization was formed in early 2017 to consolidate the many separate Islamic terror groups in Mali. In part, this was a reaction to the growing threat from ISIL (Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant) which is hostile to everyone who is not ISIL and will attack or recruit from the JNIM members like AQIM (Al Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb), Ansar Dine, FLM and several other smaller groups. Another reason for the merger was to make it easier to pool resources (including information and advice) and coordinate with other Islamic terror groups in the region. This reduces friction and destructive feuding. Making a coalition like this work is always difficult, especially considering the importance of ethnic differences. The FLM is Fulani (the largest local tribal contribution) while the other groups are largely Tuareg or Arab and some have a lot of foreigners. Note that JNIM did not absorb all of AQIM groups in the area, just local groups that had long been identified with al Qaeda. The income from the drug trade keeps a lot of these factions in business and the Islamic terrorists know that business and religious fanaticism do not mix and keep it that way. Those groups that did not went broke and withered to nothing. Internal Contradictions Internal politics for Islamic terror groups is a lot messier than these religious zealots like to admit. Thats mainly because each group believes they are uniquely qualified to be the supreme leader (or at least protector) of all Islam. Coping with this aspect of Islamic radicalism has proved burdensome and ultimately becomes a major reason for Islamic terror movements failing and fading away (via desertion and other forms of self-destruction). The new JNIM is more heavily influenced by its Fulani component and that is another reason for more Islamic terrorist attacks in central Mali, which has long been the scene of conflict involving Fulanis. Largely because of the Fulani and JNIM, there has been more Islamic terrorist activity since 2017 and that has impeded reconstruction and foreign aid efforts. Add to that the existing culture of corruption, especially in southern Mali and you have an atmosphere that is hostile to good government, national unity or economic growth. These central Mali attacks kill a lot of civilians and those civilians often belong to other local tribes (like the Dogon) and increase friction between the Fulani and the other tribes of central Mali (who tend to be farmers). Nearly all the people of central Mali are Moslem but in the herder versus farmer, religion is second to property rights. French military support is important because the government is still crippled by corruption-driven incompetence and the growing popularity of conservative Islam among the Mali Moslem majority (90 percent). The senior Islamic clerics in Mali are opposed to Islamic terrorism, but are heavily influenced by the conservative Saudi Arabian Wahhabi form of Islam. Mali, like most African nations with large Moslem populations, has accepted Saudi offers of cash to build mosques and religious schools. The Saudis also offer Islamic clerics and teachers trained in Saudi Arabia. A growing number of these Saudi trained clerics and teachers received scholarships to study in Saudi Arabia. Sub-Saharan Moslems have not been very receptive to the idea of living according to Sharia (Islamic) law, which is what Wahhabism demands. Local Islamic clerics who regularly criticize corrupt behavior are respected if not always obeyed. One little discussed reason for the continued survival of Islamic terror groups in Mali is the inability of the government to prosecute captured Islamic terrorist leaders and even those who are convicted and imprisoned are often quietly released soon thereafter. Corruption is strongly suspected because that is how things are done in Mali. The Opiate Of The Ruling Classes Massive corruption is one reason why the primary drug smuggling routes to the Mediterranean coast run through Mali. This not only enriches local officials but also funds many of the local Islamic terrorist groups. Most of these Islamic terror factions would not exist except for the income provided from drug smuggling. When it comes to Islamic terrorist leaders avoiding prison, the influence of the local clerics who benefitted from the Saudi funded Islamic charities is also at work here. While nearly all Mali Islamic clerics condemn Islamic terrorism, they are less critical of any group that vigorously defends Islam. That issue is not as important in Mali where Islam is not really threatened unless you count working for drug gangs, which is unpopular with most Malians because the presence of those drugs, even though most are just passing through to more lucrative markets in Europe, causes a growing number of local addicts. This sort of thing tears families apart and ensures that these highly effective drugs will always be seen as a major threat, as are the locals who transport and distribute them. Then there are the ultra-fanatic Islamic terrorists, primarily ISIL. Fulani belong to an ISIL faction that operates on both sides of the Niger border in the north. This groups calls itself ISGS (Islamic State in the Greater Sahara) and is largely local Tuaregs plus foreigners. Most of this violence is also about who controls fertile land and water supplies. There is another ISIL faction in the region; Islamic State's West Africa Province (ISWAP), which is one of two factions of Nigeria-based Boko Haram. While there are some Fulani in Boko Haram much of the Fulani violence in Nigeria is tribal, not religion based. In Nigeria the Fulani also fight local farmers (Christian and Moslem) for control of land and water. ISWAP personnel are mostly in northeastern Nigeria as well as smaller numbers in Chad, Niger and northern Cameroon. ISGS and ISWAP do not appear to work together except when it comes to Internet media activities, where ISWAP will mention ISGS accomplishments. ISIL does not have effective central authority at the moment with the senior leadership still dispersed and on the run from recent defeats in eastern Syria. Doing Something The Mali government is currently under a lot of popular pressure to do something about the herder versus farmer violence in central Mali. A spectacular March attack by a Dogon (farmer) militia against a Fulani village left over 160 Fulani dead and it wasnt just the Fulani who were enraged by this. The Fulani were the ones who started this violence years ago as they sought to force farmers off the land and away from water supplies the Fulani coveted. But the Fulani raids were meant to terrorize, not exterminate. The Dogon tribe, one of the larger sedentary groups in central Mali, has always been the most organized and aggressive in confronting Fulani efforts to expand south to the better watered and more fertile (for grass and crops) Niger River and beyond. After 2012 and the separatist/Islamic terrorist uprising in the north there was an increase in Fulani-farmer violence and the bloodiest incidents often involved Dogon militias fighting Fulani. Calls for the government to disarm the Dogon militias are popular at the moment but police and army commanders tell the government that attempting that would be bloody and, in the long run futile. For the Dogon, the Fulani threat is a matter of life or death while the politicians are concerned about appeasing popular outrage (which tends to fade quickly) and critical foreign media (which influences foreign aid decisions and is more important, especially for corrupt politicians who steal much of that aid.) Getting the Fulani and Dogon (and other farming tribes) to settle the land and water disputes peacefully is more difficult but is the only lasting solution. May 5, 2019: A month after more than 30,000 people demonstrated in the capital to protest the government failure to halt the tribal violence, the president announced the formation of a new government. While more tribes and other groups are represented in the new government not much is expected to change. The violence in central Mali, mainly between Fulani and several other tribes, led to a March 23rd attack that killed 160 Fulani and Fulani leaders predicting revenge attacks. Over a thousand people have died over the last few years because of this. Mainly because of this tribal violence over 80,000 people, mainly in central Mali, have fled their homes so far in 2019. May 2, 2019: In central Mali, there were two attacks on Dogon tribesmen by Fulani in the last 48 hours. At least 17 Dogon and one Fulani died. April 21, 2019: In central Mali, JNIM Islamic terrorists attacked an army base killing at least eleven soldiers. Four of the attackers died. JNIM is a largely Fulani group and the Islamic terrorists later said the base attack was in retaliation of the March attack that left 160 Fulani civilians dead. April 20, 2019: In east central Mali, near Burkina Faso border, a peacekeeper was killed and four wounded by a landmine that went off under their vehicle. There were a group of armed men ready to fire on the convoy as well but the peacekeepers immediately counterattacked, killing one of the attackers and capturing eight others. OTTAWA, May 09, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Eclipse Foundation, the platform for open collaboration and innovation, today released the 2019 Jakarta EE developer survey http://bit.ly/2VaHkTH that canvassed nearly 1,800 Java developers about their adoption of Jakarta EE and trends in Java programming. The survey was conducted by the Eclipse Foundation in March of 2019 in cooperation with member companies and partners, including the London Java Community and Java User Groups worldwide. The goal of the survey was to help Java ecosystem stakeholders better understand the requirements, priorities, and perceptions of enterprise Java developer communities. The future of the Java ecosystem and Jakarta EE is increasingly driven by new cloud workloads and capabilities. Cloud native is critically important with a third of developers currently building cloud native architectures and another 30 percent planning to within the next year; The number of Java applications running in the cloud is projected to increase significantly over the next two years, with 32 percent of respondents expecting that they will be running nearly two-thirds of their Java applications in the cloud in two years time; The microservices architecture is the dominant approach to implementing Java in the cloud, according to 43 percent of respondents; Spring and Spring Boot continue to dominate as the leading framework for building cloud native applications in Java; Eclipse Microprofile experienced a surge in usage, more than doubling in adoption from 13 percent in 2018 to 28 percent today; The top three community priorities for Jakarta EE are a tie at first with better support for microservices and native integration with Kubernetes (both at 61 percent) followed by production quality reference implementations (37 percent). Java continues to dominate as the language of choice for organizations deploying applications in production environments and this latest survey shows the same level of support as our 2018 survey, said Mike Milinkovich, Executive Director of the Eclipse Foundation. Whats most interesting is to see the acceleration in the adoption of Java in new cloud native architectures. Clearly the future of Jakarta EE is cloud native. Other survey highlights include: Java EE 8 adoption has picked up and stands at 37 percent compared to 21 percent in the 2018 survey; Java 11 use has surged to 20 percent, with many enterprises apparently leap frogging Java 9 and 10. Java 8 usage has held steady at 84 percent; More than a fifth of respondents report that they are running more than 60 percent of Java applications in the cloud; Respondents were more likely (40 percent) to modify existing Java applications for migration to the cloud while 29 percent were writing greenfield new cloud native Java applications. Access the full findings of the 2019 Jakarta EE Developer Survey here http://bit.ly/2VaHkTH. Jakarta EE represents a renaissance for the Java community. Survey respondents made it clear that as Java EE is evolving into Jakarta EE, this remains the platform they rely on most to build true enterprise-class applications. Under the Eclipse Foundation, the Jakarta EE Working Group is based on a self-governing meritocracy that sets all technical agendas and plans. The founding members of the Jakara EE Working Group are DocDoku, IncQuery Labs, Fujitsu, Genuitec, IBM, Lightbend, Microsoft, Oracle, Payara Systems, Pivotal, Red Hat, SAP, Tomitribe, Vaadin, and Webtide. How to Participate in the Future Of Jakarta EE Start by subscribing to the jakarta.ee-wg@eclipse.org mailing list. To join, a company can simply email the list declaring a commitment to participate along with a membership in the Eclipse Foundation. Additionally, developers can directly engage with the community through the jakarta.ee-community@eclipse.org mailing list. About The Eclipse Foundation The Eclipse Foundation provides our global community of individuals and organizations with a mature, scalable and business-friendly environment for open source software collaboration and innovation. The Foundation is home to Jakarta EE, the Eclipse IDE, and over 360 open source projects, including runtimes, tools, and frameworks for a wide range of technology domains such as IoT, automotive, geospatial, systems engineering and many others. The Eclipse Foundation is a not-for-profit organization supported by over 275 members, including industry leaders who value open source as a key enabler for business strategy. To learn more, follow us on Twitter @EclipseFdn , LinkedIn or visit eclipse.org . Editorial Contact Lonn Johnston +1 650.219.7764 lonn@flak42.com Angie Warren-Clark is seeking urgent answers after reports of a roaming pack of dogs in Maungatapu being responsible for the death of family cats. As the owner of two cats myself, Loki & Ziggy, the thought of innocent family cats being savagely killed by roaming dogs is terrible, Tauranga City Council must step up and put additional dog control services in place until the dog or dogs responsible are found," says the Labour list Bay of Plenty based MP. Community Noticeboard Facebook groups of Welcome Bay & Maungatapu have been inundated with comments from residents concerned about the dogs. Angie has written to the Mayor of Tauranga requesting an urgent meeting to discuss the issue. The Maungatapu community need to know that Tauranga Council are taking the matter seriously by proactively seeking to address the issue instead of only acting once another dead cat is found. "I will be asking the Mayor what additional services are being put in place, and also what action will be taken by Council if the dogs and their owners are identified. If a member of the public comes across the dogs in question, Tauranga City Council Animal Services have given the following advice: A national dance battle dubbed as the Te Puke Throwdown is set to take place on May 18. The free all ages competition is being held in conjunction with youth week 2019 which is running from May 18 to May 26. This years youth week theme is We are more than you see He wai hohonu a matou (literally, we are deep waters, thus referring to unseen depths). This national dance battle is youth inspired. Steve Fawcett from Vector Group says they are hopping to strengthen youth engagement and inclusivity and celebrate diversity. They also hope to strengthen the collaboration of the Te Puke community alongside youth service providers and to others. Steve says it is a celebration in dance and is multi-generational family event which is unique to Te Puke. He says they wanted to establish an event that could lead to an annual youth event held in Te Puke and could be replicated to other towns. The competition will see two categories, groups and singles, battle it out for cash prizes. A live band will also be playing at the event, along with live DJs. Steve says there will be international circuit and national breaking contestants. We have some amazing talent coming so its going to be very entertaining. Alongside the dance competition, there will be free dance workshops and graffiti street art painted on a car. Steve says what he is most looking forward to with this event is the fun, diversity, music, dance, and the anticipation and unknown of what the car is going to look like are it is graffiti. The Te Puke Throwdown is taking place in Te Puke on Saturday May 18. For more event details and information click here: Kyoto and Santa Clara, Calif., May 09, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- ROHM recently announced the addition of four new automotive-grade 1200V-rated IGBTs which are ideal for inverters used in electronics compressors and for switching circuits used in positive temperature coefficient (PTC) heaters. The new RGS series represents ROHMs large lineup of AEC-Q101-compliant IGBTs in both 1200V-rated and 650V-rated variants. This series delivers class-leading low conduction loss that contributes to reducing size and to improving efficiency of applications. In recent years, an increasing number of automotive makers are offering electric vehicles in response to growing environmental awareness and rising fuel costs. Increasing the number of electric vehicles also advances the need for electric compressors often driven with IGBTs. Internal combustion engine vehicles have used the heat dissipated from the engines themselves as source to heat the cabin. However, the demand for systems that use circulating warm water with PTC heater as a heat source has been increasing. IGBTs that operate at low frequency are commonly used in inverters and switches for these applications. Especially in electric vehicles, the power consumption of the compressor and heater affects the driving range, and, therefore, improved efficiency is desirable. Another trend in this market is the increase in battery capacity to improve driving range. Especially in Europe, higher voltage batteries (800V) require power devices featuring low loss and higher withstand voltages, which increases the demand for both 650V-rated and 1200V-rated IGBTs. In response, ROHM added four new devices of 1200V-rated IGBTs and expanded its lineup of AEC-Q101compliant IGBTs. This class-leading low conduction loss IGBT allows compact and highly-efficient designs. 1200V-rated devices featuring a short-circuit resistance of 10 sec (Tj=25) also ensures the reliability for automotive applications. Availability: Now Key Features 1. Class-leading low conduction loss Optimized device structure reduces VCE(sat) to 1.70V, which enables approximately 10% to 15% reduction in conduction losses compared to conventional products. For electric compressors and PTC heaters, conduction loss is a more important feature than switching characteristics due to the low drive frequency. 2. Supports a broader range of applications with large portfolio ROHM developed four new IGBTs and offers a total of 11 devices including 650V devices. This series has both simple IGBT type and built-in freewheel diode type, enabling customers to select the most suitable device. Application Examples - Electric Compressors - PTC heaters About ROHM Semiconductor ROHM Semiconductor is an industry leader in system LSI, discrete components and module products, utilizing the latest in semiconductor technology. ROHM's proprietary production system, which includes some of the most advanced automation technology, is a major factor in keeping it at the forefront of the electronic component manufacturing industry. In addition to its development of electronic components, ROHM has also developed its own production system so that it can focus on specific aspects of customized product development. ROHM employs highly skilled engineers with expertise in all aspects of design, development and production. This allows ROHM the flexibility to take on a wide range of applications and projects and the capability to serve valuable clients in the automotive, telecommunication and computer sectors, as well as consumer OEMs. Attachments At 10:05am today, New Zealand Police is launched 105 (ten five), the eagerly anticipated number for the public to report non-emergency situations to Police. More than 60 years on from the first 111 call, the launch of 105 today is a milestone for New Zealand Police, offering a new way for people to connect with us, says Commissioner of Police Mike Bush. The 105 number and our online platform - 105.police.govt.nz - will make it easier for the public to engage with us for non-emergency help, advice and support. 105 is a national non-emergency number that will be answered 24/7 by highly trained police staff. It's free to call from all landline and mobile numbers. Introducing 105 is part of our drive to modernise the way we deliver services to the public and ensure everyone in New Zealand can access policing services anywhere, anytime, says Mike. We want people to use 105 to report non-emergency situations. For example, if your car has been stolen, your property has been damaged, or you want to give Police information about crime in your area; use 105. 111, on the other hand, should still be called immediately if a crime is taking place or theres a threat to life or property. Its the number you use to connect with Police, Fire and Emergency, and the ambulance services. As well as by phone, people can go online to the 105 website to report certain non-emergency situations, and get updates on or add more information to their existing reports. Currently, lost property, intentional property damage, shoplifting, general theft, and theft from a car can be reported at 105.police.govt.nz. Were encouraging people to report non-emergencies online when and if they can, says Commissioner Bush. A public education and marketing campaign will ensure all New Zealanders are aware of the 105 number. The public education campaign kicks off today and uses posters, brochures, and social media to help inform all New Zealanders about the number and when and how to use it. Commissioner Bush says Police has planned for an increase in non-emergency calls with the introduction of 105. Well launch our marketing campaign - including a jingle designed to guarantee 105 is a number youll never forget - once we are sure we understand the demand which has been generated from the public education campaign. Sometimes the hardest part about losing a job is getting back into the workforce. With the changes the Sidney and Cheyenne County economy has experienced, workers have a long list of needs. Sometimes that list begins with where to start. The Nebraska Department of Labor is designed to help meet that need and match the right skills with the right company. "We have all been impacted in some way, either directly or indirectly, but the changes that have taken place in our community over the last few years. The Department of Labor is here to meet each individual where they are and help them obt... NEWPORT BEACH, Calif., May 09, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- PIMCO, one of the worlds premier fixed income investment managers, has named Dr. Richard Thaler as Senior Advisor on Retirement and Behavioral Economics. Dr. Thaler, who is a renowned economist and Charles R. Walgreen Distinguished Service Professor of Behavioral Science and Economics at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business, was awarded the Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences in 2017. He is also a Co-Founder and Partner at Fuller & Thaler Asset Management, which uses behavioral finance to manage portfolios of small-cap U.S. equities. Dr. Thalers role at PIMCO is to enhance the firms commitment to better understand human behavior and how it impacts decision-making, including how individuals make decisions in saving for and spending during retirement. PIMCO aims to use these insights to help create investment solutions which better serve a wide variety of client needs, both in the accumulation of assets to prepare for retirement, and strategies for winding down those assets in a thoughtful way that accommodates the inevitable uncertainties facing retirees. PIMCO recently announced a long-term partnership with the Center for Decision Research (CDR) at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business, to support behavioral science research from some of the fields foremost experts. These collaborations are part of broader efforts to incorporate outside perspectives to help expand knowledge and enhance the firms ability to deliver the best possible outcomes for investors. At PIMCO, we are always striving to give our clients an edge. We know that understanding how we behave and the decisions we make are critical inputs to help make us better investors and better managers, said Emmanuel Roman, Chief Executive Officer of PIMCO. Dr. Thalers insights will help enhance our ability to make the best possible decisions for our portfolios, our clients and our employees worldwide. About PIMCO PIMCO is one of the worlds premier fixed income investment managers. With its launch in 1971 in Newport Beach, California, PIMCO introduced investors to a total return approach to fixed income investing. In the 45+ years since then, the firm has continued to bring innovation and expertise to our partnership with clients seeking the best investment solutions. Today PIMCO has offices across the globe and 2,500+ professionals united by a single purpose: creating opportunities for investors in every environment. PIMCO is owned by Allianz SE, a leading global diversified financial services provider. Except for the historical information and discussions contained herein, statements contained in this news release constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements may involve a number of risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially, including the performance of financial markets, the investment performance of PIMCO's sponsored investment products and separately managed accounts, general economic conditions, future acquisitions, competitive conditions and government regulations, including changes in tax laws. Readers should carefully consider such factors. Further, such forward-looking statements speak only on the date at which such statements are made. PIMCO undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date of such statements. Contact: Michael Reid PIMCO Media Relations Ph. 212-597-1301 Email: Michael.Reid@pimco.com Memories of a thriving town Dye just seemed to know when it was time to return to her roots. After leaving Mendota in the 1960s, Dye later settled in Florida, where she stayed for 50 years before retiring as a metallurgical engineering technician in 2000. When my husband died, I finally realized I could come back home. My family thinks Im nutty. I sold everything I had in Florida, left my two children and two grandchildren and came back to Mendota. Its where I want to spend my last days. I returned three years ago to find that you couldnt even buy a bottle of water in Mendota. Everything had left Mendota, Dye said. Its nothing like what I remember. Im almost 80. I grew up in Mendota when it was a thriving little town. We had about five stores where we could buy anything we needed, she said. Dye believes the towns failing economy was a direct result of the steady decline of both the rail service and the tobacco industry. Jones Property Group is a full-service brokerage family representing the best and brightest in real estate. The group is now a member of Berkshire Hathaway Home Services, a brand that Jones said will help her agents win additional business. The brand is fresh, sophisticated and well-suited to our market niches, she said. We believe clients will appreciate the Berkshire Hathaway Home Services name and understand its marketing advantages. BRISTOL, Va. The partners of a proposed resort casino have established a political action committee to promote their efforts. The new single-issue PAC, called Betting on Virginia Jobs, was established in recent weeks, according to information on the Virginia Public Access Project website. To date, the committee has two contributions of $50,000 each from The United Co. and Clyde Stacy, both of Bristol, Virginia. Stacy and Jim McGlothlin, chairman and CEO of The United Co., are partners in the Bristol Resort and Casino project proposed for the vacant Bristol Mall. Uniteds contribution came on April 4 and Stacys on April 22, according to VPAP.org. The pair was successful in helping get legislation passed during the last General Assembly session that could pave the way for casino gambling in the state. Senate Bill 1126 calls for a study of casino gaming regulations by the Joint Legislative Audit and Review Commission that is due Dec. 1. If the next General Assembly reenacts the legislation, it would establish the framework for the Virginia Lottery Board to oversee gaming and would allow certain localities, including Bristol, Danville, Portsmouth and Richmond, to conduct voter referenda. In 1956, Burson enlisted in the Air Force and remained in the military for 20 years until he retired in August 1976. In all, Burson put in 7,000 flight hours and said he had 500 hours flying with the presidents and other dignitaries on Air Force One. Burson made his first flight in April 1962 with President John F. Kennedy, serving as a flight steward on an auxiliary crew. We didnt go one-on-one with the president. He was basically a dignitary, and you had to, sort of, respect his position, Burson said in 2018. Bursons job meant helping keep the chili hot and ready for Lyndon Johnson. He flew with Richard M. Nixon to China. And, he soared in the skies above the Vietnam War on Air Force One. He also flew with President Gerald Ford. Leaving Washington, D.C., the Burson family moved to Lebanon, Virginia, in the late 1970s then relocated to Abingdon a couple of years later, John Burson recalled. About that time, after his career in the Air Force, John Burson wore a toupee just like the character Jim Dickson does on screen in Permanent. It became sort of a vanity-type thing, John Burson said. DAMASCUS, Va. Saturday is a good time to slip into Damascus. Thats the date for the annual townwide yard sale, running 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. While in town, you can also pay a visit to the Damascus Old Mill, which is not only open for meals and lodging but is also looking at an expansion. The mill features a dozen rooms. But, to truly be even more of a destination, says manager Randy Bass, its going to need more. So thats whats under construction right now at a century-old house next to the mill. Bass, 62, expects the building project on those rooms to be ongoing through the rest of the spring. He also wants to redecorate the walls of the current inn. Right now, the walls of the halls are quite bare. Lets put something on there some local art, he said. A former resident of North Carolina, Bass has been a regular visitor to the Damascus Old Mill for about 18 years long before he took the reins as manager earlier this year. One of the worlds biggest companies is trying to shake up a business dominated for decades by a Central New York firm. Nike is rolling out an app, Nike Fit, that will allow customers shopping online or in stores to scan and measure their feet. The app will come up with a size based on 13 different data points. The Brannock device has been the standard in foot measuring since its invention in the 1920s in Syracuse by Charles Brannock. The metal contraption is seen in shoe stores across the land and the company that makes them is still headquartered in Liverpool. But as more shopping moves online, getting the right size without actually trying a shoe on is becoming a challenge, according to Nike. The company said nearly half a million people complain about buying the wrong size shoe every year in North America alone. And Nike estimated that 60 percent of all people at any given time are walking around in the wrong size shoe. The problem is a financial pain too. Nike said about 27 percent of shoes bought online are returned for poor fit, according to Bloomberg. And the site noted that people wearing the wrong size Nikes might opt for a different brand in the future. Although its news release on the app doesn't mention the Brannock device by name, Nike called the industry's current approach to foot measuring "antiquated." "It's not just the equipment - essentially a foot ruler with a measurement scale based on a barley corn kernel - but the concept of sizing itself," the company said. "Length and width don't provide nearly enough data to get a shoe to fit comfortably. Sizing as we know it is a gross simplification of a complex problem." That's why the new app uses so much more data to determine the right size, Nike said. Brannock began working on his device while he was a student at Syracuse University. His father had founded a shoe company in Syracuse in 1906 and Charles wanted to find a reliable way to measure feet. He eventually built a prototype using an Erector set and patented the device in 1926 and 1927. Brannock died in 1993 at the age of 89. The company has sold more than a million devices. Theyve varied little over the years. But the firm has started making customized models and is considering a digital version, according to its website. No one from Brannock could be reached for comment. Syracuses Fleet Feet also uses a 3-D scanning system for foot measuring. Contact Kevin Tampone anytime: Email | Twitter | Facebook | 315-282-8598 Western New York native and Syracuse University alumnus Jeff Glor will anchor CBS Evening News for the last time Friday, according to multiple reports. CBS announced a major shakeup Monday morning, moving John Dickerson to 60 Minutes, putting Anthony Mason and Tony Dokoupil on CBS This Morning with Gayle King, and replacing Glor with Norah ODonnell. CBS Evening News with Norah ODonnell wont begin until this summer, but Glor isnt waiting around to hand over the seat previously held by Walter Cronkite, Dan Rather and Katie Couric. Sources tell NBC News, Variety and The Daily Beast that Glor will finish out the week on CBS Evening News, but will sign off for good after Fridays broadcast. CBS and Glors representatives have not commented. Glor has not said whether or not hell remain at CBS News. The network said its in discussions to keep him in a new, unspecified role. [Glors] award-winning reporting shed light on important issues and highlighted humanity in our world. His conversations, you should know, with CBS continues and we hope he will continue working here, King said Monday morning. ODonnell will take over CBS Evening News sometime this summer. The program will then move from New York to Washington, D.C., in the fall. We are grateful to Jeff Glor for his award-winning work and his commitment to both his colleagues and to our viewers, new CBS News president Susan Zirinsky said in a statement. As we transition the Evening News to Washington, we are discussing opportunities for Jeff to remain with CBS News and continue providing the same substantive, trusted reporting that he has been offering for the past 12 years. Glor briefly addressed his upcoming exit on Mondays broadcast, but refused to name ODonnell or any of his other colleagues on air. As we close tonight, a brief word: You may have heard about changes taking place here at CBS News, about moves that impact colleagues, the unmatched Evening News team, and me. The outpouring of support from you has been everything, he said at the end of the show. I like to think we are all guided by something bigger than one moment and one broadcast. I have always wanted to do work that matters, and still do, he continued, That is something that will never change. I have family, friends, and in the future far more to share with all of you. It will be great. I promise, just as you are. Thank you all for watching." Glor replaced previous anchor Scott Pelley in December 2017, but never improved on CBS third place ratings. Glor averaged 6.58 million total viewers (1.355 million in 25-54 target audience) for the first quarter of 2019, according to Nielsen, well behind ABCs World News Tonight with Syracuse native David Muir (9.32 million total viewers with 1.962 million in the target demo) and NBCs Nightly News with Lester Holt (8.68 million total viewers with a slight lead of 1.972 million in the 25-54 demo). Glor, 43, grew up in Tonawanda, N.Y., where his first job was delivering newspapers for The Buffalo News. The diehard Buffalo Bills fan graduated from SU's Newhouse School in 1997, going on to work as a reporter for WSTM-3 (CNY Central) in Syracuse. I take pride in Buffalo and I take pride in Syracuse, Glor told syracuse.com in 2017. I take pride in everything that helped make me who I am today." DEXTER, N.Y. -- A Jefferson County man is accused of sharing videos and images of toddlers and other children engaging in sexual conduct, according to New York State Police. Gerald W. MacNeil, 55, of Dexter, was charged with three counts of promoting a sexual performance by a child and two counts of possessing a sexual performance by a child, both felonies, state police said. MacNeils arrest was the result of a investigation of the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, which consists of state police and the United States Department of Homeland Security. MacNeil was accused of sharing the child pornography on the internet over the course of several months. He was arrested after two search warrants were executed concurrently in the villages of Brownville and Dexter on Tuesday, state police said. The investigation determined that MacNeil was utilizing computers and software at a residence and business to distribute and possess images and videos, state police said. MacNeil was arraigned in Brownville Town Court and remanded to the Jefferson County Jail on $5,000 cash bail or $10,000 bond. Additional charges are pending and this investigation is still ongoing, state police said. English French Paris, May 9, 2019 1Q19 results Development and transformation at the core of New Dimension Reported net income at 764m in 1Q19 vs. 260m in 1Q18 (restated), up +194%, notably driven by the disposal of the retail banking activities Financial strength with a Basel 3 fully-loaded CET1 ratio at 11.3% pro forma, well above our 2020 target (11%) RESILIENCE OF THE BUSINESS MODEL IN A CHALLENGING ENVIRONMENT FOR GLOBAL MARKET REVENUES - NATIXIS 1Q19 UNDERLYING NET REVENUES1 AT 2.1BN AWM: Strong AuM increase and flows back to positive territory Strength of our active asset management model with underlying net revenues1 slightly down YoY, in part due to the 4Q18 market effect. Excluding performance fees, underlying net revenues1 are up +1% YoY Strong AuM growth of +6% over the quarter to reach 855bn Flows turning positive again (+1bn) driven by Europe. Positive net inflows, notably at Harris, in March The average fee rate remains in line with the New Dimension target at ~30bps Creation of Thematics Asset Management and partnership announced with Fiera Capital CIB: Underlying RoE1 ~10% despite challenging market conditions, thanks to our diversified expertise Underlying net revenues1 lower than 1Q18 amidst challenging market conditions and with a high base effect in Global markets, partially offset by the resilience of Global finance and the good performance of Investment banking/M&A Underlying RoE1 ~10% in 1Q19 despite this context with sustained pipeline for Global finance and IB/M&A Expansion of our M&A multi-boutiques model: acquisition of Azure Capital Insurance: High profitability and with a key milestone towards New Dimension targets Underlying net revenues1 up +7% YoY in 1Q19 with a positive jaw effect and an underlying RoE1 >30% Gross inflows on unit-linked products remain above the French market, with the gap widening Key step for Natixis Assurances towards becoming a fully-fledged insurer (see Groupe BPCE/Covea announcement) Payments: Continuous growth dynamic Underlying net revenues1 up +11% YoY in 1Q19 with a positive jaw effect Increase in business volumes from PayPlug & Dalenys, up +26% YoY in 1Q19. Historical processing activity +9% YoY SUSTAINABLE VALUE CREATION AND FINANCIAL STRENGTH Disposal of the retail banking activities (586m capital gain) supplemented by +37bps of organic capital creation in 1Q19. Basel 3 FL CET1 ratio2 at 11.3% pro forma as at March 31, 2019, well above our 2020 target (11%) Transformation & Business Efficiency: ~50m of annual additional costs savings identified by end-2020, raising the total to 300m over New Dimension Underlying net income1 at 192m in 1Q19, impacted by IFRIC 21 Underlying RoTE1 at 10.2% in 1Q19 and 13.2% over New Dimension3 as at March 31, 2019 Cash dividend of 0.78 per share4: 0.30 ordinary, 0.48 special FOCUS ON THE IMPLEMENTATION OF OUR 2020 AMBITIONS Francois Riahi, Natixis Chief Executive Officer, said: The first quarter of 2019 was marked by a number of important developments in the implementation of our New Dimension strategic plan. Our partnership with Covea is perfectly aligned with the growth ambitions of our bancassurance model for Groupe BPCE, while the addition of a new M&A boutique in Australia is fully consistent with our CIB roadmap to expand in Investment banking with a sectorial approach. In a challenging environment, especially for market activities during the first two months of the year, and despite a high basis for comparison due to our very strong first quarter in 2018, the diversification and the uniqueness of our business model enabled us to further strengthen our capital position while confirming the payment of a 0.78 dividend per share following the disposal of our retail banking activities. 1Q19 RESULTS5 On May 9, 2019, the Board of Directors examined Natixis first quarter 2019 results. m 1Q19 restated 1Q18 restated 1Q19 o/w underlying 1Q18 o/w underlying 1Q19 vs. 1Q18 restated 1Q19 vs. 1Q18 underlying 1Q19 vs. 1Q18 underlying constant FX Net revenues 2,132 2,193 2,113 2,221 (3)% (5)% (8)% o/w businesses 1,901 2,040 1,901 2,040 (7)% (7)% (10)% Expenses (1,720) (1,675) (1,703) (1,660) 3% 3% 0% o/w expenses excluding SRF (1,550) (1,515) (1,533) (1,500) 2% 2% (1)% Gross operating income 412 518 410 561 (20)% (27)% (30)% o/w GOI excluding SRF 582 678 580 721 (14)% (19)% (22)% Provision for credit losses (31) (36) (31) (36) Net operating income 381 482 379 526 (21)% (28)% Associates and other items 685 13 3 13 Pre-tax profit 1,066 495 382 539 115% (29)% Income tax (215) (175) (137) (190) Minority interests (86) (60) (53) (61) Net income - group share 764 260 192 288 194% (33)% Natixis underlying net revenues are higher or stable vs. 1Q18 for the vast majority of the businesses with Payments up +11% YoY, Insurance up +7% YoY, Investment banking/M&A up +6% YoY and strong resilience for Global finance as well as AWM. Such results are partially offsetting Global markets evolution set against a high 1Q18 and challenging market conditions. Underlying expenses are flat at constant exchange rate despite investments being made to prepare the future levers of growth. Excluding the SRF contribution of 170m (+7%YoY) fully booked in 1Q due to IFRIC 21, expenses are well under control and down -1% YoY at constant exchange rate. The underlying cost/income ratio2 is at 73.0%, up +550bps vs. 1Q18. The underlying cost of risk is slightly down YoY, remaining at low levels. Expressed in basis points of loans outstanding (excluding credit institutions), the businesses underlying cost of risk worked out to 18bps in 1Q19. The underlying tax rate is at ~36% in 1Q19 due to the non-deductibility of the SRF contribution. The guidance is maintained at <30% for 2019 Net income (group share), adjusted for IFRIC 21 and excluding exceptional items reached 334m in 1Q19. Accounting for exceptional items (+572m net of tax in 1Q19) and IFRIC 21 impact (-142m in 1Q19), the reported net income (group share) in 1Q19 is at 764m. Natixis delivered a 10.2% underlying RoTE6 excluding IFRIC 21 impact and an average 13.2% over New Dimension7. The businesses underlying RoE2 reached 12.3% and an average 14.6%over New Dimension3. Following Natixis change of perimeter after the disposal of the retail banking activities, ~50m of additional cost savings have been identified on top of the ~250m existing target, raising the 2020 cost savings target to ~300m. These savings will be fully captured by the end of 2020 (~15m by end-2019 and ~50m by end-2020) and will impact all the business lines. The cost savings initiative notably includes Natixis real estate/location strategy, further internalization of IT staff and reduction of other running costs. By the end of 2018, ~180m of cost savings had been fully captured of which ~145m were prorata temporis, i.e. ~35m of cost savings are to be crystallized through the 2019 P&L thanks to 2018 initiatives, on top of ongoing projects. Additional ~30m of one-off investment expenses to be booked in 2019 in exceptional items. 1Q19 RESULTS Exceptional items m 1Q19 1Q18 Exchange rate fluctuations on DSN in currencies (Net revenues) Corporate center 19 (28) Transformation & Business Efficiency Investment costs (Expenses) Business lines & Corporate center (17) (13) Fit to Win investments & restructuring expenses (Expenses) Corporate center 0 (2) Disposal of subsidiary in Brazil (Gain or loss on other assets) CIB (15) Capital gain - Disposal of retail activities (Gain or loss on other assets) Corporate center 697 Total impact on income tax (79) 15 Total impact on minority interests (33) 1 Total impact on net income (gs) 572 (27) 586m positive net impact from the disposal of the retail banking activities: 697m capital gain minus 78m income tax minus 33m minority interests TRANSFORMATION & BUSINESS EFFICIENCY Investment costs by reporting line m 1Q19 1Q18 AWM (5) (1) CIB (3) (2) Insurance 0 0 Payments 0 0 Financial Investments 0 0 Corporate center (9) (10) Impact on expenses (17) (13) Unless specified otherwise, the following comments and data refer to underlying results, i.e. excluding exceptional items (see detail p3) Asset & Wealth Management m 1Q19 1Q18 1Q19 vs. 1Q18 1Q19 vs. 1Q18 constant FX Net revenues 773 799 (3)% (7)% o/w Asset management8 742 762 (3)% (7)% o/w Wealth management 31 37 (16)% (16)% Expenses (553) (548) 1% (4)% Gross operating income 220 252 (12)% (16)% Provision for credit losses 1 0 Associates and other items (2) 0 Pre-tax profit 219 251 (13)% Cost/income ratio2 71.0% 68.0% +3.0pp RoE after tax2 12.1% 14.0% (1.9)pp Underlying net revenues from Asset & Wealth Management (AWM) are up +1% YoY in 1Q19 excluding AM performance fees (-4% YoY at constant exchange rate), illustrating the resilience of our model. Asset management underlying net revenues down -6% YoY in North America (372m) and up +14% in Europe (171m) over 1Q19. Wealth management underlying revenues are down -16% YoY in 1Q19, due to the perimeter effect from the disposal of Selection 1818. The Asset management fee rate excluding performance fees (32m in 1Q19; ~5% of 1Q19 AM revenues vs. 65m in 1Q18; ~9% of 1Q18 AM revenues) stood at ~30bps in 1Q19, in line with New Dimension target, the 4Q18 market effect impacting the weight of average AuM from North America in the mix. In Europe, the fee rate stood at 16bps (27bps excl. Life insurance General Accounts) in 1Q19, the increase being primarily driven by the higher share of alternative strategies (liquid and illiquid). In North America, the fee rate stood at 38bps with a lower share of average AuM from Harris following the 4Q18 market effect. Asset management net inflows positive at +1bn in 1Q19 with net inflows on LT products of a similar amount in March. As anticipated in New Dimension, the momentum for alternative strategies (liquid and illiquid) remains strong with close to 2bn net inflows in 1Q19 as opposed to strategies such as Core Fixed Income. In Europe (including Dynamic Solutions), net inflows reached +4bn in 1Q19 and are positive across a vast majority of our European affiliates. In North America, 1Q19 saw net outflows of -3bn with a recovery post 4Q18 and flows coming back to positive territory, notably for Harris, in March. Asset management AuM reached 855bn as at March 31, 2019 and are up +6% QoQ, starting 2Q19 above their 2Q18 average level. The +38bn positive market effect is largely driven by North America while AuM also benefited from a +7bn FX/perimeter effect. Wealth management AuM reached 27.0bn as at March 31, 2019 with positive net inflows in 1Q19. Expenses are down -4% YoY at constant exchange rate in 1Q19 with AM variable costs adjusting to the revenue environment and investments being made to prepare the next levers of growth. The underlying RoE2 reached 12.1% in 1Q19 vs. 14.0% in 1Q18 and 11.5% in 1Q17. The underlying cost/income ratio2 reached 71.0% in 1Q19 vs. 68.0% in 1Q18. Fiera Capital Corporation and Natixis Investment Managers today announced they have entered into a long-term strategic partnership that will establish Fiera Capital as Natixis preferred Canadian distribution platform, giving Fiera Capitals clients access to Natixis wide range of highly active investment strategies. As part of the agreement, Natixis has strengthened its commitment to the Canadian market through the acquisition of an 11.0% stake in Fiera Capital (limited impact on Natixis CET1 ratio), and Natixis Investments Managers CEO, Jean Raby, will join Fiera Capitals board of directors (see ad-hoc press release). Unless specified otherwise, the following comments and data refer to underlying results, i.e. excluding exceptional items (see detail p3) Corporate & Investment Banking m 1Q19 1Q18 1Q19 vs. 1Q18 1Q19 vs. 1Q18 constant FX Net revenues 807 944 (15)% (17)% Net revenues excl. CVA/DVA 816 943 (13)% (16)% Expenses (579) (565) 3% 0% Gross operating income 228 379 (40)% (42)% Provision for credit losses (30) (31) Associates and other items 2 6 Pre-tax profit 201 355 (44)% Cost/income ratio9 68.7% 57.5% +11.2pp RoE after tax1 9.6% 17.1% (7.5)pp Underlying net revenues are down -15% YoY in 1Q19 (-17% YoY at constant exchange rate) with contrasted performances. Up in Investment banking/M&A, stable in Global finance, both businesses featuring sustained pipeline beyond 1Q19. Such performances are partially offsetting Global markets evolution set against a high 1Q1, especially for FICT and with a slow start to the year followed by improving market conditions towards quarter-end. Global markets net revenues excl. CVA/DVA are up QoQ in 1Q19 both for FICT and Equity and down -28% YoY at constant scope vs. a high 1Q18. FICT net revenues are down -34% YoY in 1Q19 on the back of less favorable market conditions across Rates and FX offsetting a positive momentum on Credit and with a solid performance from the Americas platform. We remain highly selective on profitable deals while 1Q18 FICT revenues were close to historic highs creating a high base effect. Equity net revenues are down -13% YoY in 1Q19 excluding cash equity with a solid recovery post 4Q18. The hedging program on the Asian derivatives book designed to protect this book from negative market impacts has been fully completed with no additional negative P&L impact. Global finance net revenues are largely flat YoY with a strong performance from Energy & Natural Resources (ENR) as well as Infrastructure and Aviation within Real Assets (RA), offsetting lower revenues in Real Estate on a historically high 1Q18 that was mainly driven by the Americas platform performance. New loan production remains robust with ENR up +32% YoY and RA up +50% YoY with a strong momentum for Infrastructure (more that x2 YoY). The distribution rate on Real Assets is close to 70% in 1Q19 (~65% in 1Q18). Investment banking and M&A net revenues are up +6% YoY including a good performance in ECM, sustained ASF activity and double-digit growth in M&A thanks to the successful integration of Fenchurch and Vermillion. The proportion of revenues generated from service fees10 is up at 41% in 1Q19 vs. 38% 1Q18. The underlying expenses are flat YoY at constant exchange rate despite investments being made to develop our sectorial expertise as well as the expansion of our high-expertise, asset-light M&A boutique model. The underlying cost/income ratio1 reached 68.7% in 1Q19 vs. 57.5% in 1Q18. The underlying cost of risk is stable YoY. The underlying RoE1 of CIB reached 9.6% in 1Q19 vs. 17.1% in 1Q18. RWA are under control (up <1% QoQ, in part due to IFRS 16). Strengthening of our multi-boutique model in M&A with the acquisition of a majority stake in Azure Capital Limited, an Australia-based M&A boutique reinforcing our presence in APAC in an attractive market for domestic and offshore investors with a strong focus on Energy & Natural Resources as well as Infrastructure to leverage on our sectorial approach with Australia being a strategic country for most of our sectors of expertise (see ad-hoc press release). Unless specified otherwise, the following comments and data refer to underlying results, i.e. excluding exceptional items (see detail p3) Insurance m 1Q19 1Q18 1Q19 vs. 1Q18 Net revenues 218 204 7% Expenses (125) (118) 6% Gross operating income 93 86 8% Provision for credit losses 0 0 Associates and other items 0 3 Pre-tax profit 93 89 5% Cost/income ratio11 51.7% 50.9% +0.8pp RoE after tax1 33.4% 33.1% +0.3pp Underlying net revenues are up +7% YoY in 1Q19 driven by both Life and P&C. Underlying expenses are up +6% YoY in 1Q19, translating into a positive jaws effect and an underlying cost/income ratio1 below the ~54% 2020 target at 51.7% (50.9% in 1Q18). The underlying gross operating income is up +8% YoY in 1Q19. The underlying RoE1 continues to improve at 33.4% in 1Q19 (33.1% in 1Q18), above the ~30% target set for New Dimension by 2020. The Global turnover12 reached 3.3bn in 1Q19, down -6% YoY (Life and Personal protection 3.0bn, down -7% YoY and P&C 0.4bn, up +4% YoY). Net inflows2 in Life insurance reached 1.7bn in 1Q19 of which 36% in the form of unit-linked products (29% of gross inflows with the gap widening vs. the French market13). Assets under management in Life insurance reached 63.0bn as at end-March 2019 (+5% QoQ) of which 24% in the form of unit-linked products (15.2bn, up +8% QoQ).The P&C combined ratio worked out to 92.5% in 1Q19, up +0.2pp YoY. The equipment rate for the Banques Populaires moved up +0.6pp QoQ at 26.0% and +0.5pp QoQ for the Caisses dEpargne at 29.1%. Natixis to take over P&C new business for the Banques Populaires private customers as of 2020, as part of Groupe BPCEs renewed partnership with Covea announced today. Natixis Assurances is becoming a fully-fledged insurer for Groupe BPCE networks through the deployment of a single industrial model for the Banques Populaires and Caisses dEpargne. BPCE Assurances, subsidiary 100% owned by Natixis Assurances since 2017, will take over the Auto and Household new business for the Banques Populaires private customers from BPCE IARD, entity co-owned (50%/50%) by Natixis Assurances and Groupe Covea (through MAAF). Progressive roll-out starting in 2020 with revenue accretion as soon as year 1, paving the way for future growth beyond 2020 (see ad-hoc press release). Unless specified otherwise, the following comments and data refer to underlying results, i.e. excluding exceptional items (see detail p3) Payments m 1Q19 1Q18 1Q19 vs. 1Q18 Net revenues 103 93 11% Expenses (88) (79) 10% Gross operating income 16 14 14% Provision for credit losses 0 0 Associates and other items 0 0 Pre-tax profit 16 14 14% Cost/income ratio14 84.1% 84.5% -0.4pp RoE after tax1 12.5% 13.4% -0.9pp Underlying net revenues are up +11% YoY in 1Q19 and 41% of 1Q19 revenues have been with direct clients. Payment Processing & Services : Steady +6% YoY revenue growth in Natixis Payments historical activities in 1Q19. Number of card transactions processed up +9% YoY in 1Q19 and progressive ramp-up of Instant Payment : Steady +6% YoY revenue growth in Natixis Payments historical activities in 1Q19. Number of card transactions processed up +9% YoY in 1Q19 and progressive ramp-up of Instant Payment Merchant Solutions : Solid business volumes generated by Dalenys (medium/large corp.) and PayPlug (SME), up +26% YoY in 1Q19. Synergies ongoing between entities and within Groupe BPCE with the deployment of PayPlug and Android POS platform within the Caisses dEpargne network. Partnership with Retailtech Wynd to offer unique omnichannel solution. : Solid business volumes generated by Dalenys (medium/large corp.) and PayPlug (SME), up +26% YoY in 1Q19. Synergies ongoing between entities and within Groupe BPCE with the deployment of PayPlug and Android POS platform within the Caisses dEpargne network. Partnership with Retailtech Wynd to offer unique omnichannel solution. Prepaid & Issuing Solutions: Robust growth in 1Q19 driven by meal vouchers and the contribution of our Benefits & Rewards activity (Titres Cadeaux and Comiteo). Set up of a Payment in a Box solution around the S-Money platform and Natixis partnership with Visa. Number of mobile payments more than x2.4 vs. 1Q18 Underlying expenses are up +10% YoY in 1Q19, translating into a positive jaws effect and an underlying gross operating income growth of +14% YoY in 1Q19 despite investments still being made. The underlying cost/income ratio1 reached 84.1% in 1Q19 vs. 84.5% in 1Q18. The underlying RoE1 of Payments reached 12.5% in 1Q19 vs. 13.4% in 1Q18. Unless specified otherwise, the following comments and data refer to underlying results, i.e. excluding exceptional items (see detail p3) Financial investments m 1Q19 1Q18 1Q19 vs. 1Q18 Net revenues 193 190 2% Coface 175 177 (1)% Other 18 13 40% Expenses (133) (128) 4% Gross operating income 60 62 (3)% Provision for credit losses (2) (6) Associates and other items 0 2 Pre-tax profit 58 58 (1)% The net combined ratio15 of Coface reached 74.5% in 1Q19 vs. 72.5% in 1Q18 with a cost ratio moving from 32.7% to 31.9% and a loss ratio moving from 39.8% to 42.6%. Corporate Center m 1Q19 1Q18 1Q19 vs. 1Q18 Net revenues 19 (9) Expenses (225) (222) 2% SRF (170) (160) 7% Other (55) (62) (11)% Gross operating income (207) (231) (10)% Provision for credit losses 0 1 Associates and other items 2 1 Pre-tax profit (204) (229) (11)% Underlying net revenues from the Corporate Center are up +28m YoY in 1Q19 due to positive FVA (Funding Value Adjustment) impacts. Underlying expenses excluding the SRF contribution are down -11% YoY. SRF final contribution for 2019 up 10m YoY. The P&L drag at the pre-tax profit level has been reduced by 35m YoY in 1Q19 excluding SRF. FINANCIAL STRUCTURE Basel 3 fully-loaded ratios16 Natixis Basel 3 fully-loaded CET1 ratio worked out to 11.6% as at March 31, 2019. Basel 3 fully-loaded CET1 capital amounted to 11.1bn amounted to 11.1bn Basel 3 fully-loaded RWA amounted to 96.4bn Based on a Basel 3 fully-loaded CET1 ratio of 10.8% as at December 31, 2018, the respective 1Q19 impacts were as follows: IFRS 16 FTA impact: -11bps Effect of allocating net income (group share) to retained earnings in 1Q19: +16bps (o/w -13bps from IFRIC 21) 1Q19 ordinary dividends: -8bps Disposal of retail banking activities: +70bps (+226bps minus -156bps of special dividend) RWA and other effects: +8bps Pro forma for strategic operations announced today (Fiera Capital Corporation, Azure Capital Limited: ~5bps CET1 ratio impact combined) and already announced (WCM Investment Managers and Massena Partners: ~15bps CET1 ratio impact combined), as well as the Irrevocable Payment Commitment deduction from capital (IPC), Natixis Basel 3 fully-loaded CET1 ratio pro forma would be 11.3% (vs. a pro forma ratio of 11.1% at the end of December 2018). Basel 3 regulatory ratios1 As at March 31, 2019, Natixis Basel 3 regulatory capital ratios stood at 10.9% for the CET1, 13.1% for the Tier 1 and 15.5% for the total capital ratio. Core Tier 1 capital stood at 10.5bn and Tier 1 capital at 12.6bn stood at 10.5bn and at 12.6bn Natixis RWA totaled 96.4bn, breakdown as follows: Credit risk: 65.2bn Counterparty risk: 6.5bn CVA risk: 1.5bn Market risk: 9.9bn Operational risk: 13.3bn totaled 96.4bn, breakdown as follows: Book value per share Equity capital (group share) totaled 20.8bn as at March 31, 2019, of which 2.0bn in the form of hybrid securities (DSNs) recognized in equity capital at fair value (excluding capital gain following reclassification of hybrids). Natixis book value per share stood at 5.16 as at March 31, 2019 based on 3,150,673,938 shares excluding treasury shares (the total number of shares being 3,153,078,482). The tangible book value per share (after deducting goodwill and intangible assets) was 3.90. Leverage ratio1 The leverage ratio worked out to 4.1% as at March 31, 2019. Overall capital adequacy ratio As at March 31, 2019, the financial conglomerates excess capital was estimated at around 3.8bn (based on own funds including current financial years earnings). APPENDICES Note on methodology: The results at 31/03/2019 were examined by the board of directors at their meeting on 09/05/2019. Figures at 31/03/2019 are presented in accordance with IAS/IFRS accounting standards and IFRS Interpretation Committee (IFRIC) rulings as adopted in the European Union and applicable at this date Changes in Natixis account presentation following the disposal of the retail banking activities to BPCE S.A. Employee savings plan is reallocated to Asset & Wealth Management Film industry financing is reallocated to Corporate & Investment Banking Insurance is not impacted Payments becomes a standalone business line Financial Investments are isolated and include Coface, Natixis Algeria and the private equity runoff activities. The Corporate Center is refocused on Natixis holding and ALM functions and carries the Single Resolution Fund contribution within its expenses Additional impacts on the quarterly series from the disposal of the retail banking activities to BPCE S.A. New support function services provided by Natixis to the activities sold (TSA / SLA), as well as the cancellation of services or analytical items that have been made obsolete following such a disposal are factored in The reclassification as Net revenues of the residual IT and logistic services that continue to be provided to the activities sold. Such services now being provided to entities that do not fall under Natixis scope of consolidation anymore, they have been reclassified as Net revenues instead of expense deductions The implementation of introductory fees between the Natixis CIB Coverage and the entities sold In order to ensure comparability between the 2018 and 2019 quarterly series, these impacts have been simulated retroactively as of January 1st, 2018, even though they only impact the published financial statements as of their implementation date in 2019. These items essentially impact the Corporate Center and more marginally the CIB. The others business lines are unimpacted Business line performances using Basel 3 standards: The performances of Natixis business lines are presented using Basel 3 standards. Basel 3 risk-weighted assets are based on CRR-CRD4 rules as published on June 26 th , 2013 (including the Danish compromise treatment for qualified entities). , 2013 (including the Danish compromise treatment for qualified entities). Natixis RoTE is calculated by taking as the numerator net income (group share) excluding DSN interest expenses on preferred shares after tax. Equity capital is average shareholders equity group share as defined by IFRS, after payout of dividends, excluding average hybrid debt, average intangible assets and average goodwill. - Natixis RoE: Results used for calculations are net income (group share), deducting DSN interest expenses on preferred shares after tax. Equity capital is average shareholders equity group share as defined by IFRS, after payout of dividends, excluding average hybrid debt, and excluding unrealized or deferred gains and losses recognized in equity (OCI). - RoE for business lines is calculated based on normative capital to which are added goodwill and intangible assets for the business line. Normative capital allocation to Natixis business lines is carried out based on 10.5% of their average Basel 3 risk-weighted assets. Business lines benefit from remuneration of normative capital allocated to them. By convention, the remuneration rate on normative capital is maintained at 2%. Note on Natixis RoE and RoTE calculation in 1Q19: Calculations based on quarter-end balance sheet to reflect the disposal of the retail banking activities. The 586m net capital gain is not annualized Net book value: calculated by taking shareholders equity group share (minus distribution of dividends proposed by the Board of Directors and submitted to the approval of the General Shareholders' Meeting on May 28, 2019), restated for hybrids and capital gains on reclassification of hybrids as equity instruments. Net tangible book value is adjusted for goodwill relating to equity affiliates, restated goodwill and intangible assets as follows: m 31/03/2019 Goodwill 3,839 Restatement for Coface minority interests (162) Restatement for AWM deferred tax liability & others (339) Restated goodwill 3,338 m 31/03/2019 Intangible assets 679 Restatement for Coface minority interest & others (49) Restated intangible assets 630 Own senior debt fair-value adjustment: calculated using a discounted cash-flow model, contract by contract, including parameters such as swap curves and revaluation spread (based on the BPCE reoffer curve). Adoption of IFRS 9 standards, on November 22, 2016, authorizing the early application of provisions relating to own credit risk as of FY2016 closing. All impacts since the beginning of the financial year 2016 are recognized in equity, even those that had impacted the income statement in the interim financial statements for March, June and September 2016 Regulatory (phased-in) capital and ratios: based on CRR-CRD4 rules as reported on June 26, 2013, including the Danish compromise - phased in. Presentation excluding current financial years earnings and accrued dividend (based on a 60% pay-out17) Fully-loaded capital and ratios: based on CRR-CRD4 rules as reported on June 26, 2013, including the Danish compromise - without phase-in. Presentation including current financial years earnings and accrued dividend (based on a 60% pay-out1) Leverage ratio: based on delegated act rules, without phase-in (presentation including 1Q19 earnings and accrued dividend1) and with the hypothesis of a roll-out for non-eligible subordinated notes under Basel 3 by eligible notes. Repo transactions with central counterparties are offset in accordance with IAS 32 rules without maturity or currency criteria. Leverage ratio disclosed including the effect of intragroup cancelation - pending ECB authorization Exceptional items: figures and comments on this press release are based on Natixis and its businesses income statements excluding non-operating and/or exceptional items detailed page 5. Figures and comments that are referred to as underlying exclude such exceptional items. Natixis and its businesses income statements including these items are available in the appendix of this press release Restatement for IFRIC 21 impact: the cost/income ratio, the RoE and the RoTE excluding IFRIC 21 impact calculation takes into account of the annual duties and levies concerned by this accounting rule Earnings capacity: net income (group share) restated for exceptional items and the IFRIC 21 impact Expenses: sum of operating expenses and depreciation, amortization and impairment on property, plant and equipment and intangible assets Natixis - Consolidated P&L (restated) m 1Q18 2Q18 3Q18 4Q18 1Q19 1Q19 vs. 1Q18 Net revenues 2,193 2,360 2,156 2,040 2,132 (3)% Expenses (1,675) (1,528) (1,499) (1,656) (1,720) 3% Gross operating income 518 832 658 383 412 (20)% Provision for credit losses (36) (41) (93) (23) (31) Associates 7 3 6 13 3 Gain or loss on other assets 6 4 0 44 682 Change in value of goodwill 0 0 0 0 0 Pre-tax profit 495 798 570 418 1,066 115% Tax (175) (234) (154) (110) (215) Minority interests (60) (57) (59) (127) (86) Net income (group share) 260 507 358 181 764 194% Figures restated as communicated on April 11, 2019 following the disposal of the retail banking activities. See below for the reconciliation of the restated figures with the accounting view Natixis - Reconciliation between management and accounting figures 1Q19 m 1Q19 underlying Exceptional items 1Q19 restated Residual contribution from perimeter sold 1Q19 reported Net revenues 2,113 19 2,132 22 2,154 Expenses (1,703) (17) (1,720) (23) (1,742) Gross operating income 410 2 412 0 412 Provision for credit losses (31) (31) 0 (31) Associates 3 3 0 3 Gain or loss on other assets 0 682 682 0 682 Pre-tax profit 382 684 1,066 0 1,066 Tax (137) (78) (215) 0 (215) Minority interests (53) (34) (86) 0 (86) Net income (group share) 192 572 764 0 764 1Q18 m 1Q18 underlying Exceptional items 1Q18 restated Contribution from perimeter sold 1Q18 reported Net revenues 2,221 (28) 2,193 220 2,412 Expenses (1,660) (15) (1,675) (120) (1,795) Gross operating income 561 (43) 518 100 618 Provision for credit losses (36) (36) (8) (43) Associates 13 13 0 13 Gain or loss on other assets 0 0 0 0 Pre-tax profit 539 (43) 495 92 587 Tax (190) 15 (175) (29) (204) Minority interests (61) 1 (60) 0 (60) Net income (group share) 288 (27) 260 63 323 Natixis - IFRS 9 Balance sheet Assets (in bn) 31/03/2019 31/12/2018 Cash and balances with central banks 20.3 24.3 Financial assets at fair value through profit and loss18 219.3 214.1 Financial assets at fair value through Equity 11.1 10.8 Loans and receivables1 119.2 96.6 Debt instruments at amortized cost 1.5 1.2 Insurance assets 104.3 100.5 Non-current assets held for sale 0.0 25.6 Accruals and other assets 15.9 16.8 Investments in associates 0.7 0.7 Tangible and intangible assets 2.3 1.1 Goodwill 3.8 3.8 Total 498.4 495.5 Liabilities and equity (in bn) 31/03/2019 31/12/2018 Due to central banks 0.0 0.0 Financial liabilities at fair value through profit and loss1 211.9 208.2 Customer deposits and deposits from financial institutions1 101.8 109.2 Debt securities 45.7 35.0 Liabilities associated with non-current assets held for sale 0.0 9.7 Accruals and other liabilities 17.8 17.0 Insurance liabilities 93.4 89.5 Contingency reserves 1.7 1.7 Subordinated debt 4.0 4.0 Equity attributable to equity holders of the parent 20.8 19.9 Minority interests 1.4 1.3 Total 498.4 495.5 Natixis - 1Q19 P&L by business line m AWM CIB Insurance Payments Financial investments Corporate Center 1Q19 restated Net revenues 773 807 218 103 193 37 2,132 Expenses (558) (582) (125) (88) (133) (234) (1,720) Gross operating income 216 225 93 16 60 (196) 412 Provision for credit losses 1 (30) 0 0 (2) 0 (31) Net operating income 216 195 93 16 58 (196) 381 Associates and other items (2) (12) 0 0 0 699 685 Pre-tax profit 214 183 93 16 58 503 1,066 Tax (215) Minority interests (86) Net income (gs) 764 Figures restated as communicated on April 11, 2019 following the disposal of the retail banking activities. See page 12 for the reconciliation of the restated figures with the accounting view Asset & Wealth Management m 1Q18 2Q18 3Q18 4Q18 1Q19 1Q19 vs. 1Q18 Net revenues 799 842 841 1,032 773 (3)% Asset Management19 762 805 805 998 742 (3)% Wealth management 37 37 36 34 31 (16)% Expenses (548) (569) (584) (642) (558) 2% Gross operating income 251 273 257 389 216 (14)% Provision for credit losses 0 (1) (1) 0 1 Net operating income 251 272 256 390 216 (14)% Associates 0 0 0 2 0 Other items 0 (3) (2) 41 (2) Pre-tax profit 251 269 255 433 214 (15)% Cost/Income ratio 68.6% 67.6% 69.4% 62.3% 72.1% Cost/Income ratio excl. IFRIC 21 68.1% 67.7% 69.6% 62.4% 71.6% RWA (Basel 3 - in bn) 11.7 11.8 12.5 12.3 12.5 6% Normative capital allocation (Basel 3) 4,143 4,065 4,150 4,363 4,364 5% RoE after tax (Basel 3)20 13.7% 15.2% 13.9% 19.6% 11.5% RoE after tax (Basel 3) excl. IFRIC 212 14.0% 15.1% 13.8% 19.5% 11.8% Corporate & Investment Banking m 1Q18 2Q18 3Q18 4Q18 1Q19 1Q19 vs. 1Q18 Net revenues 944 976 828 518 807 (15)% Global markets 527 457 334 14 366 (31)% FIC-T 378 299 252 231 251 Equity 148 145 97 (219) 125 Equity excl. cash 143 140 97 (219) 125 Cash equity 5 4 0 0 0 CVA/DVA desk 1 13 (15) 2 (9) Global finance21 341 394 341 362 337 (1)% Investment banking22 82 85 78 126 87 6% Other (7) 41 74 16 16 Expenses (566) (551) (525) (559) (582) 3% Gross operating income 378 425 302 (41) 225 (41)% Provision for credit losses (31) (37) (98) (9) (30) Net operating income 347 388 204 (50) 195 (44)% Associates 4 3 3 3 2 Other items 3 0 0 0 (15) Pre-tax profit 353 391 207 (47) 183 (48)% Cost/Income ratio 60.0% 56.4% 63.5% 107.9% 72.2% Cost/Income ratio excl. IFRIC 21 57.7% 57.2% 64.4% 109.4% 69.1% RWA (Basel 3 - in bn) 59.7 61.7 61.2 61.1 61.8 4% Normative capital allocation (Basel 3) 6,435 6,416 6,676 6,631 6,634 3% RoE after tax (Basel 3)23 16.0% 17.6% 9.0% NR 7.6% RoE after tax (Basel 3) excl. IFRIC 213 17.0% 17.2% 8.7% NR 8.6% Insurance m 1Q18 2Q18 3Q18 4Q18 1Q19 1Q19 vs. 1Q18 Net revenues 204 193 192 201 218 7% Expenses (118) (108) (103) (118) (125) 6% Gross operating income 86 85 89 83 93 8% Provision for credit losses 0 0 0 0 0 Net operating income 86 85 89 83 93 8% Associates 3 0 3 9 0 Other items 0 0 0 0 0 Pre-tax profit 89 85 92 91 93 5% Cost/Income ratio 58.0% 56.1% 53.8% 58.9% 57.5% Cost/Income ratio excl. IFRIC 21 51.1% 58.5% 56.2% 61.2% 51.7% RWA (Basel 3 - in bn) 7.3 7.0 7.1 7.3 8.0 10% Normative capital allocation (Basel 3) 853 868 828 841 858 1% RoE after tax (Basel 3)24 28.6% 26.4% 30.3% 30.7% 29.4% RoE after tax (Basel 3) excl. IFRIC 211 33.0% 24.9% 28.8% 29.2% 33.3% Payments m 1Q18 2Q18 3Q18 4Q18 1Q19 1Q19 vs. 1Q18 Net revenues 93 95 96 105 103 11% Expenses (79) (88) (84) (90) (88) 10% Gross operating income 14 7 12 15 16 14% Provision for credit losses 0 0 0 (2) 0 Net operating income 14 7 12 13 16 13% Associates 0 0 0 0 0 Other items 0 1 0 0 0 Pre-tax profit 14 8 12 13 16 14% Cost/Income ratio 85.2% 92.2% 87.6% 85.7% 84.8% Cost/Income ratio excl. IFRIC 21 84.5% 92.4% 87.9% 85.9% 84.1% RWA (Basel 3 - in bn) 1.0 1.2 1.0 1.1 1.1 13% Normative capital allocation (Basel 3) 295 300 352 332 356 21% RoE after tax (Basel 3)25 12.8% 7.4% 9.6% 10.1% 12.0% RoE after tax (Basel 3) excl. IFRIC 211 13.4% 7.2% 9.4% 9.9% 12.5% Financial investments m 1Q18 2Q18 3Q18 4Q18 1Q19 1Q19 vs. 1Q18 Net revenues 190 174 197 181 193 2% Coface 177 156 180 165 175 Others 13 18 17 16 18 Expenses (130) (125) (131) (140) (133) 2% Gross operating income 59 49 66 41 60 1% Provision for credit losses (6) 1 1 3 (2) Net operating income 54 50 67 44 58 8% Associates 0 0 0 0 0 Other items 2 3 0 0 0 Pre-tax profit 56 53 67 44 58 3% RWA (Basel 3 - in bn) 5.3 5.6 5.5 5.6 5.7 6% Corporate Center m 1Q18 2Q18 3Q18 4Q18 1Q19 1Q19 vs. 1Q18 Net revenues (37) 79 3 3 37 Expenses (232) (87) (71) (107) (234) 1% SRF (160) 0 0 0 (170) 7% Others (73) (86) (71) (107) (64) (12)% Gross operating income (269) (7) (68) (104) (196) (27)% Provision for credit losses 1 (4) 4 (15) 0 Net operating income (269) (11) (63) (118) (196) (27)% Associates 0 0 0 0 0 Other items 1 2 2 3 69926 Pre-tax profit (268) (9) (62) (115) 503 1Q19 results: from data excluding non-operating items to restated data m 1Q19 underlying Exchange rate fluctuations on DSN in currencies Transformation & Business Efficiency investment costs Disposal of subsidiary in Brazil Capital gain - Disposal of retail banking activities 1Q19 restated Net revenues 2,113 19 2,132 Expenses (1,703) (17) (1,720) Gross operating income 410 19 (17) 412 Provision for credit losses (31) (31) Associates 3 3 Gain or loss on other assets 0 (15) 697 682 Pre-tax profit 382 19 (17) (15) 697 1,066 Tax (137) (6) 5 (78) (215) Minority interests (53) (33) (86) Net income (group share) 192 13 (12) (15) 586 764 Figures restated as communicated on April 11, 2019 following the disposal of the retail banking activities. See page 12 for the reconciliation of the restated figures with the accounting view Natixis - 1Q19 capital & Basel 3 financial structure See note on methodology Fully-loaded bn 31/03/2019 Shareholders Equity 20.8 Hybrid securities (Including capital gain following reclassification of hybrids as equity instruments) (2.1) Goodwill & intangibles (3.8) Deferred tax assets (0.7) Dividend provision (2.5) Other deductions (0.5) CET1 capital 11.1 CET1 ratio 11.6% Additional Tier 1 capital 1.8 Tier 1 capital 12.9 Tier 1 ratio 13.4% Tier 2 capital 2.3 Total capital 15.2 Total capital ratio 15.8% Risk-weighted assets 96.4 Regulatory bn 31/03/2019 Fully-loaded CET1 capital 11.1 Current financial years earnings (0.8) Current financial years accrued dividend 0.1 CET1 capital 10.5 CET1 ratio 10.9% Additional Tier 1 capital 2.1 Tier 1 capital 12.6 Tier 1 ratio 13.1% Tier 2 capital 2.4 Total capital 15.0 Total capital ratio 15.5% Risk-weighted assets 96.4 IFRIC 21 effects by business line Effect in expenses m 1Q18 2Q18 3Q18 4Q18 1Q19 AWM (4) 1 1 1 (4) CIB (22) 7 7 7 (24) Insurance (14) 5 5 5 (13) Payments (1) 0 0 0 (1) Financial investments 0 0 0 0 0 Corporate center (119) 40 40 40 (119) Total Natixis (160) 53 53 53 (161) Historical figures restated for the disposal of the retail banking activities Normative capital allocation and RWA breakdown - 31/03/2019 bn RWA EoP % of total Goodwill & intangibles 1Q19 Capital allocation 1Q19 RoE after tax 1Q19 AWM 12.5 15% 3.1 4.4 11.5% CIB 62.0 74% 0.2 6.6 7.6% Insurance 8.0 10% 0.1 0.9 29.4% Payments 1.1 1% 0.2 0.4 12.0% Total (excl. Corporate center and Financial investments) 83.7 100% 3.6 12.2 RWA breakdown (bn) 31/03/2019 Credit risk 65.2 Internal approach 54.5 Standard approach 10.7 Counterparty risk 6.5 Internal approach 5.6 Standard approach 0.9 Market risk 9.9 Internal approach 4.4 Standard approach 5.5 CVA 1.5 Operational risk - Standard approach 13.3 Total RWA 96.4 Fully-loaded leverage ratio27 According to the rules of the Delegated Act published by the European Commission on October 10, 2014, including the effect of intragroup cancelation - pending ECB authorization bn 31/03/2019 Tier 1 capital1 13.2 Total prudential balance sheet 396.0 Adjustment on derivatives (38.0) Adjustment on repos28 (26.2) Other exposures to affiliates (41.2) Off balance sheet commitments 36.1 Regulatory adjustments (5.1) Total leverage exposures 321.6 Leverage ratio 4.1% Net book value as at March 31, 2019 bn 31/03/2019 Shareholders equity (group share) 20.8 Deduction of hybrid capital instruments (2.0) Deduction of gain on hybrid instruments (0.1) Distribution (2.5) Net book value 16.3 Restated intangible assets29 0.6 Restated goodwill1 3.3 Net tangible book value30 12.3 Net book value per share 5.16 Net tangible book value per share 3.90 1Q19 Earnings per share m 31/03/2019 Net income (gs) 764 DSN interest expenses on preferred shares after tax (24) Net income attributable to shareholders 741 Earnings per share () 0.24 Number of shares as at March 31, 2019 31/03/2019 Average number of shares over the period, excluding treasury shares 3,148,288,020 Number of shares, excluding treasury shares, EoP 3,150,673,938 Number of treasury shares, EoP 2,404,544 Net income attributable to shareholders m 1Q19 Net income (gs) 764 DSN interest expenses on preferred shares after tax (24) RoE & RoTE numerator 741 Natixis RoTE31 m 31/03/2019 Shareholders equity (group share) 20,849 DSN deduction (2,122) Dividend provision (2,551) Intangible assets (630) Goodwill (3,338) RoTE Equity end of period 12,208 Average RoTE equity (1Q19) 12,208 1Q19 RoTE annualized with no IFRIC 21 adjustment 9.9% IFRIC 21 impact 142 1Q19 RoTE annualized excl. IFRIC 21 14.5% Natixis RoE1 m 31/03/2019 Shareholders equity (group share) 20,849 DSN deduction (2,122) Dividend provision (2,551) Exclusion of unrealized or deferred gains and losses recognized in equity (OCI) (429) RoE Equity end of period 15,748 Average RoE equity (1Q19) 15,748 1Q19 RoE annualized with no IFRIC 21 adjustment 7.7% IFRIC 21 impact 142 1Q19 RoE annualized excl. IFRIC 21 11.3% Doubtful loans32 bn 31/12/2018 Pro forma excl. IFRS 5 31/03/2019 Under IFRS 9 Provisionable commitments33 1.7 1.7 Provisionable commitments / Gross debt 1.8% 1.5% Stock of provisions34 1.3 1.3 Stock of provisions / Provisionable commitments 76% 76% Disclaimer This media release may contain objectives and comments relating to the objectives and strategy of Natixis. Any such objectives inherently depend on assumptions, project considerations, objectives and expectations linked to future and uncertain events, transactions, products and services as well as suppositions regarding future performances and synergies. No Insurance can be given that such objectives will be realized. They are subject to inherent risks and uncertainties, and are based on assumptions relating to Natixis, its subsidiaries and associates, and the business development thereof; trends in the sector; future acquisitions and investments; macroeconomic conditions and conditions in Natixis' principal local markets; competition and regulation. Occurrence of such events is not certain, and outcomes may prove different from current expectations, significantly affecting expected results. Actual results may differ significantly from those implied by such objectives. Information in this media release relating to parties other than Natixis or taken from external sources has not been subject to independent verification, and Natixis makes no warranty as to the accuracy, fairness, precision or completeness of the information or opinions herein. Neither Natixis nor its representatives shall be liable for any errors or omissions, or for any prejudice resulting from the use of this media release, its contents or any document or information referred to herein. Included data in this press release have not been audited. NATIXIS financial disclosures for the first quarter 2019 are contained in this press release and in the presentation attached herewith, available online at www.natixis.com in the Investors & shareholders section. The conference call to discuss the results, scheduled for May 10th, 2019 at 9:00 a.m. CET, will be webcast live on www.natixis.com (on the Investors & shareholders page). Contacts: Investor Relations: investorelations@natixis.com Press Relations: relationspresse@natixis.com Damien Souchet T + 33 1 58 55 41 10 Daniel Wilson T + 33 1 58 19 10 40 Noemie Louvel T + 33 1 78 40 37 87 Sonia Dilouya Vanessa Stephan T + 33 1 58 32 01 03 T + 33 1 58 19 34 16 www.natixis.com Figures restated as communicated on April 11, 2019 following the disposal of the retail banking activities. See page 12 for the reconciliation of the restated figures with the accounting view 1 Excluding exceptional items. Excluding exceptional items and excluding IFRIC 21 for cost/income, RoE and RoTE (see note on methodology) 2 See note on methodology 3 Adjusting for the non-recurring impact on 4Q18 revenues from Asian equity derivatives, net of tax 4 Proposal subject to the approval of the General Shareholders meeting on May 28, 2019 1Figures restated as communicated on April 11, 2019 following the disposal of the retail banking activities. See page 12 for the reconciliation of the restated figures with the accounting view 6 See note on methodology. Excluding exceptional items and excluding IFRIC 21 7 Adjusting for the non-recurring impact on 4Q18 revenues from Asian equity derivatives, net of tax 8 Asset management including Private equity and Employee savings plan 2 See note on methodology. Excluding exceptional items and excluding IFRIC 21 9 See note on methodology. Excluding exceptional items and excluding IFRIC 21 10 ENR, Real Assets, ASF 11 See note on methodology. Excluding exceptional items and excluding IFRIC 21 12 Excluding reinsurance agreement with CNP 13 Source: FFA 14 See note on methodology. Excluding exceptional items and excluding IFRIC 21 15 Reported ratios, net of reinsurance 16 See note on methodology 17 Pay-out ratio based on reported net income group share minus DSN interest expenses on preferred shares after tax and excluding the 586m net capital gain from the disposal of the retail banking activities 18 Including deposit and margin call 19 Asset management including Private equity and Employee savings plan 20 Normative capital allocation methodology based on 10.5% of the average RWA-including goodwill and intangibles 21 Including Film industry financing 22 Including M&A 23 Normative capital allocation methodology based on 10.5% of the average RWA-including goodwill and intangibles 24 Normative capital allocation methodology based on 10.5% of the average RWA-including goodwill and intangibles 25 Normative capital allocation methodology based on 10.5% of the average RWA-including goodwill and intangibles 26 Including 697m capital gain from the disposal of the retail banking activities 27 See note on methodology. Without phase-in - supposing replacement of existing subordinated issuances when they become ineligible 28 Repos with clearing houses cleared according to IAS32 standard, without maturity or currency criteria 29 See note on methodology 30 Net tangible book value = Book value goodwill - intangible assets 31See note on methodology. Returns based on quarter-end balance sheet to reflect the disposal of the retail banking activities. The 586m net capital gain is not annualized 32 On-balance sheet, excluding repos, net of collateral 33 Net commitments 34 Specific and portfolio-based provisions Attachment SYRACUSE, N.Y. -- Lawyers representing activist Maurice Crawley in a lawsuit that alleges a Syracuse police officer used excessive force says the city offered Crawley $75,000 to end the case, according to a letter from the lawyer to Corporation Counsel that the lawyer also emailed to media Wednesday night. Jesse Ryder and Charles Bonner, who have already won a use-of-force lawsuit filed by Alonzo Grant against the city, said Crawley will turn down the offer. As in the Grant case, we are willing to significantly reduce our demand if the City of Syracuse is willing to implement a use-of-force policy, in line with most major cities in our country, Ryder wrote. Recently hired Syracuse police chief Kenton Buckner has publicly said the department is revising its use of force policy. Greg Loh, a spokesman for the city, said Thursday that the city did not make a settlement offer and is not engaged in settlement discussions. Instead, they made an offer called a Rule 68 Offer of Judgment to force Crawley to consider resulting the matter without trial, or risk having to pay the citys costs at trial, he said. Loh declined to comment further on the $75,000 offer or other details about the case. Based upon the extreme nature of the beating our client suffered at the hands of Officer Smith, we expect to succeed in our claim for punitive damages against Mr. Smith along with our claim for compensatory damages and attorneys fees, said the letter, which was signed by Ryder. Crawley has accused Syracuse police officer Vallon Smith of using excessive force during a July 28, 2016 arrest, while Crawley was convicted of harassing Smith during the same incident. Smith has been accused of excessive use of force in another lawsuit, filed by the mother of a Nottingham High School student in 2018. Bonner, a California-based lawyer, and Ryder are also representing the plaintiffs in that case. Crawley and Smith had clashed prior to the 2016 incident. At the time, Onondaga County District Attorney William Fitzpatrick said Crawley stalked Smith at least a dozen times as Smith made arrests. On July 28, 2016, Crawley tried taping Smith while the officer arrested a third person. Crawley said Smith pulled Crawley off his bicycle as he taped, slammed him to the ground and punched him during the arrest. A judge found Crawley guilty of harassing Smith in June of 2017 but Fitzpatrick also said Smith improperly arrested Crawley. (Smith) made a mistake, Fitzpatrick said during an Aug. 5 news conference. He overreacted, and he will suffer the consequences. Ryder and Bonner, represented Grant and won Grant $1.5 million after police violently arrested the Syracuse man. The jury found two Syracuse police officers used excessive force, falsely arrested Grant, and assaulted him during the arrest. Ryder and Bonner are also representing Nottingham High School student Jabari Boykins in his lawsuit against the City of Syracuse. Boykins and his mother, Liza Acquah, have also accused Smith of excessive use of force. Fitzpatrick cleared Smith of any criminal wrongdoing in the Boykins case. During Smiths arrest of Boykins, which was caught on video, it appeared Smith pushed Boykins against a wall and took him to the floor. Boykins elbow was fractured during the arrest and his lip split open, Boykins mother Liza Acquah told Syracuse.com | The Post-Standard at the time. Fitzpatrick said Smith was justified in shoving Boykins because the teen refused to leave the building. Most recently, Ryder and Bonner agreed with city lawyers to extend discovery in Crawleys lawsuit against Smith until June 26. Editors Note: The city initially declined to comment on this case but then officials change their mind. The story was updated Thursday with the citys comments. An Ithaca College alumna has been fired from a Maryland TV station for a question about the race and gender of past Baltimore mayors. Deadline reports WJZ, a CBS affiliate, confirmed this week that it fired news anchor Mary Bubala over her comments in a live, on-air discussion with Loyola University Maryland Professor Karsonya Kaye Wise Whitehead last week. Bubala brought up the recent political scandal of Catherine Pugh, who resigned as mayor on May 2 amid investigators questions about the financial arrangements of her self-published childrens books. Weve had three female, African-American mayors in a row, Bubala said. They were all passionate public servants. Two resigned, though. Is this a signal that a different kind of leadership is needed to move Baltimore City forward? No, Whitehead responded. The current conversations around leadership in Baltimore are challenging, emotional, and at times include layers of racism and sexism," Whitehead later elaborated in a statement to the Baltimore Sun. "There is an assumption that since three black women have served as mayor and the city has not entirely changed for the better then perhaps black women are not fit to lead this city. No one can ask racially biased questions in the public sphere including in the media without being held accountable. Bubala apologized repeatedly on social media, but backlash quickly spread online. Soooooo this happened following the resignation of #Baltimore Mayor #CatherinePugh. URGH! I'm not even sure I want to hear the excuse for this. I'm cringing and cursing. (Reposting video from @AndreShowell) pic.twitter.com/DPZfdnedFP Nicki Mayo (@nickimayonews) May 3, 2019 Im not even sure I want to hear the excuse for this, Nicki Mayo, former president of the Baltimore Association of Black Journalists, wrote on Twitter. Im cringing and cursing. The BABJ further condemned the remarks as racist and sexist. The television station announced Monday that Bubala is no longer a WJZ-TV employee and apologized to viewers. Bubala, a Chicago native, graduated from Ithaca College in 1991. According to the schools website, she landed her first broadcasting job the day after she graduated at WENY in Elmira, N.Y. She also worked at WOKR in Rochester, where she won a New York State Broadcasters Association award. According to NBC, Bubala spent the majority of her 22-year career with WJZ. The Emmy winner said Tuesday she wanted to issue an on-air apology but was not allowed. Last week I realized I made a mistake in the language I used on air. I immediately apologized for any hurt I unintentionally caused," Bubala wrote on Facebook. "I received immediate support from WJZ because they knew it was not in my heart to intentionally cause this kind of harm. I wanted to do an on-air apology but was not allowed. I hope that the people of Baltimore know that I would never do anything to hurt anyone. Unfortunately, I now stand in the path of the tornado. WJZ was forced to let me go. I am saddened and shocked by this decision. Baltimore City has been my home for 25 years and I treasure and am so grateful for the relationships I have made with the people of Baltimore during this time. I fully intend to fight to restore my reputation because Ive invested my heart and soul in my work and my city. Thank you Baltimore for all of your support during this difficult period of time. It means so much to me. Woodstock 50 organizers filed a lawsuit against its former financial backer, accusing the investor of sabotage and demanding the return of nearly $18 million in funds. Rolling Stone reports former Trump attorney Mark Kasowitz submitted legal paperwork on behalf of Woodstock 50 with the Supreme Court of the State of New York on Wednesday. The petition for an injunction asks the court to place a gag order on Dentsu Aegis Network, the Japanese conglomerate that canceled" the 2019 festival in Watkins Glen last week, and demand its investment arm Amplifi Live return $17.8 million to the festivals bank account. Dentsu officials told Billboard that the money was originally deposited by the company and argued that the company had a right to withdraw its own funds. According to TMZ, the lawsuit also claims Dentsu intentionally tried to sabotage Woodstock 50, even contacting Watkins Glen International, vendors, and performers agents to encourage them to sever ties with Woodstock co-founder and 50th anniversary festival organizer Michael Lang. Lang claims Dentsu encouraged artists to back out to ensure a spot performing during the 2020 Summer Olympics in Tokyo, which Dentsu is sponsoring. Dentsus actions have caused a worldwide uproar over its efforts to kill the Festivals commemoration of one of the most iconic cultural events of the 20th century, Kasowitz wrote in a filing in New York state court. Dentsu said last week that Woodstock 50 was canceled because it didnt believe the production of the festival can be executed as an event worthy of the Woodstock Brand name while also ensuring the health and safety of the artists, partners and attendees. Dentsu said it was worried after capacity for Watkins Glen was reduced from initial figures of 150,000 to half: 75,000. Lang says Dentsu doesnt have the right to cancel Woodstock and insists the 50th anniversary festival is going on as scheduled, Aug. 16-18, in Watkins Glen. All performers -- including Jay-Z, Santana, Miley Cyrus, The Killers, Chance the Rapper, John Fogerty, Janelle Monae, Dead & Company, Halsey, and Imagine Dragons -- were paid in advance as part of Dentsus initial $30 million investment, but its unclear if Dentsu pulling out voids their contracts. Billboard reports talent agencies say theyll give Lang a chance to save Woodstock 50 before officially releasing the artists and booking them elsewhere. Lang reportedly needs $30 million more by Friday from a new financial backer to ensure Woodstock 50 -- just 100 days from now -- can happen. Its unclear if the lawsuit demanding $17.8 million from Dentsu would mean only $12.2 million is required by Friday. More than 400,000 people attended the first Woodstock festival, held Aug. 15-18, 1969, at Max Yasgurs dairy farm near White Lake in the Catskill Mountains. Performers included Richie Havens, Jefferson Airplane, The Who, Joan Baez, Jimi Hendrix, Santana, Joe Cocker, the Grateful Dead and Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young. The iconic concert was revisited in 1994 with a modern lineup of artists like Nine Inch Nails, Sheryl Crow, Metallica, Cypress Hill and Red Hot Chili Peppers in Saugerties, but Woodstock 99 -- held at Griffiss Air Force Base in Rome, N.Y. -- was marred by riots, fires and allegations of sexual assault. Lang helped organize both anniversary events. The original Woodstock site is planning its own anniversary celebration on the same weekend. The Bethel Woods Center for the Arts will host Arlo Guthrie and a screening of the Woodstock documentary on the field Thursday, Aug. 15; Ringo Starr, Guthrie, and The Edgar Winter Band on the pavilion stage Friday, Aug. 16; Santana with the Doobie Brothers on Saturday, Aug. 17; and John Fogerty on Sunday, Aug. 18. Guthrie, Winter, Santana and Fogerty all performed at the original Woodstock festival. By CAROLYN HAX (Adapted from a recent online discussion.) Hi, Carolyn: Were expecting our first baby (yay!). In my family, a much-anticipated rite of passage for new grandparents is to decide what they will be called by grandkids. My own grandparents supposedly did this, and I have been witness to my aunts and uncles having a great time batting around ideas while waiting for the babies to be born. I was very excited for my parents to have this opportunity, and they're already brainstorming some sweet and hilarious ideas. But in my husband's family -- which is VERY nuclear-family-centric, meaning that grandparents who want to be involved are expected to in all ways bend to the needs and whims of their adult children -- it's the parents who decide what their kids will call the grandparents. He is not against the names my parents are considering, but he is offended on principle that an important* decision affecting our kids is being made by someone other than us. How do we reconcile these competing expectations? *He thinks its important; I think its trivial unless they come up with something problematic, say, a term they dont realize is a slur. -- Expecting(END ITAL) Where there is irreconcilable disagreement: His family, his rites; your family, your rites. That's the template. But: Offended on principle? Over Bubbie and PawPaw? I know I have no say in this whatsoever, but his offense offends me. If I were his doctor, I'd be recommending an emergency stickectomy. I hope he's not this controlling on anything else. --0-- --0-- --0-- (BEG ITAL)Re: Grandparent names: Hahahahahahahahahahaha. Now that I have that out of my system, please understand neither you, nor he, nor anyone's parents will decide what the grandparents are called, the kids will. -- Hahahahahaha(END ITAL) Fact. Thanks. --0-- --0-- --0-- (BEG ITAL)Re: Grandparent names: Doesn't appear to bode well for future boundary issues with his family's RIGHT way, nor for future challenges that will appear with future discussions about how to raise children. Seems they grew up with very different family philosophies. -- Predicting(END ITAL) Right. Authoritarian on his part, it seems, and authoritative or permissive on hers. Better to navigate a path through these differences now, and the grandparent-naming issue is as good an entry point as any. Thanks. --0-- --0-- --0-- (BEG ITAL)Re: Emergency stickectomy: In our home, it's a corncob-ectomy. -- Anonymous(END ITAL) Ouch. --0-- --0-- --0-- (BEG ITAL)Dear Carolyn: My son is involved with a woman who has a young child from a previous relationship. As I understand it, the kid's father is still marginally and inconsistently in the picture. Also, even though my son seems to really love the kid, his relationship with his girlfriend is somewhat unstable and he says he does not see himself marrying her in the near future. I now see the child on a pretty regular basis, but feels as though she could be out of my life any second. What are best practices for not adding to the instability already swirling around this very sweet little girl? She already has two very loving grandparents. -- Not-Quite-Grandmother(END ITAL) Teacher, neighbor, baby-sitter, friend's parent -- these are roles in so many children's lives that can be warm and caring and, in most cases, temporary. And the kids are (in most cases) OK with that. Just know that even a cameo appearance can provide a loving boost to a child. Email Carolyn at tellme@washpost.com, follow her on Facebook at www.facebook.com/carolyn.hax or chat with her online at noon Eastern time each Friday at www.washingtonpost.com. (c) 2019, Washington Post Writers Group A baby American bison was born on exhibit at the Rosamond Gifford Zoo today, Thursday, May 9, while zoo visitors watched in awe. The mother bison, Sue, went into labor around 11 a.m. and the baby was born at 12:30 p.m., said Zoo Director Ted Fox. The calf is the second bison baby to be born at the zoo to Sue and male buffalo Harley. Sue had their first calf, Abigail in 2017. This second calf will be named Madison as part of the zoos I Love New York theme of naming new arrivals after New York cities and towns. Animal care staff are not yet sure of the babys gender. American bison once numbered in the millions, but bison came close to extinction by 1900, when only about 1,000 remained. Conservation efforts led by the Bronx Zoo have restored the population to about 500,000 in zoos, preserves and protected parklands. In 2016, the American bison was named the US National Mammal. With this second bison birth, we are doing our part to contribute to the health of this species, said Zoo Director Ted Fox. It is a great experience to participate in the conservation of this iconic animal. Onondaga County Executive Ryan McMahon said the birth represents another achievement for the zoo. Our zoo is doing great things to help save endangered species, and this bison calf is one more success story, McMahon said. My congratulations go out to zoo leadership, the animal care staff and the Cornell University Veterinary team that assists in medical care at the zoo. With several school field trips visiting the zoo Thursday, a small crowd gathered at the bison exhibit as onlookers realized an animal was giving birth. Zookeepers stood by observing from several vantage points, while a couple of keepers answered visitors questions. Several visitors referred to the bison as buffalo, but only bison are native to North and South America as well as Europe. Many people confuse the two species of hoofed mammal, but buffalo only reside in Africa and Asia, Fox said. The birth comes just in time for Mothers Day, which the zoo is celebrating by offering $1 admission for mothers AND fathers this year. I expect a lot of people will be interested in seeing our newest mom on Mothers Day, Fox said. The Rosamond Gifford Zoo participates in several Species Survival Plans for breeding endangered animals in human care through the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA). It is one of 233 institutions accredited by AZA, which requires its members to meet the highest standards of animal care, wildlife conservation, education and guest experience. For information on the zoo, visit www.rosamondgiffordzoo.org. For info on zoo events, visit www.syracusezooevents.org. SYRACUSE, N.Y. -- The community grid option for Interstate-81 entails about a dozen new traffic lights being added or replaced along the Almond Street corridor. So Syracuse.com reader AJ Moran wants to know if hell be stuck at light after light even with little cross-traffic, or because the lights arent talking to each other. In Manhattan, you can go 10-20 blocks on without hitting a red light," he writes. In Syracuse, sometimes you go one block and stop, one block and stop. City and state officials said the lights will be connected through some type of central system managed remotely by traffic coordinators. However, they are still working out the details of whether the city or the state will own the traffic lights. Who owns the lights will potentially determine which system theyre added to -- either the citys system called interconnect or the states transportation management center. Its early for us to know in terms of ownership of the traffic lights, said Corey Driscoll-Dunham, the citys chief operating officer, but conversations are beginning, she said. The city is working on making all city traffic lights connected through interconnect, which allows employees at a small office on Canal Street to set up traffic signals and even change them manually when needed. In June 2016, 159 of the citys 293 traffic signals were linked up, with more being added since then. In the draft environmental impact statement released last month, state officials said the new traffic signals built as part of the community grid project would be connected. Coordination between newly installed or replaced traffic signals would be established through the existing centrally controlled traffic signal communication system, officials wrote. The states system is called the transportation management center. The state has also said intersections would get replacement traffic signals along Almond/Catherine streets between Burt Street and Burnet Avenue. New traffic signals proposed under the community grid would be at the following intersections: Almond Street at Cedar Street Almond Street at Van Buren Street Almond Street at Taylor Street Almond Street at Jackson Street Almond Street and MLK, Jr. East Court Street at Genant Drive Crouse Avenue at Madison Street Crouse Avenue at westbound I-690 Southbound Business Loop 81 (what is now I-81) off- and on-ramp at North Clinton Street Irving Avenue at Erie Boulevard Irving Avenue at Madison Street Irving Avenue at Water Street Oswego Boulevard at Willow Street Pearl Street at James Street Pearl Street at E. Willow Street Southbound BL 81 off-ramp at Willow Street West Street at eastbound I-690 ramps West Street at westbound I-690 ramps North Clinton Street extension at Butternut Street Do you have any questions about the I-81 project? Send an email to Patrick Lohmann at PLohmann@Syracuse.com or call him at (315)766-6670. Well try to answer your questions about the complicated I-81 project. Also, make sure to read all of our Interstate 81 coverage here. A Somalian refugee family of seven has become the owners of one of Syracuses newest houses. Since Isha Mberwa moved to Syracuse in 2010, she has been house-hunting in search of more space for her husband and their five children. The family stayed in cramped apartments as she weighed moving to the suburbs or settling for an old house that would require repairs. But Mberwa always knew what she really wanted: A new house in the city of Syracuse, where she could be close to family. She and her husband Omar Mnondwa both work full-time and rely on the childrens grandmother for child care. After years of searching, Mberwa this year got the brand new home shed imagined. For me it was a dream," she said. "Up until closing, Im thinking, this is not really my house until I have the keys. Construction finished at 707 First North St. in January, making the house a rarity in the city of Syracuse. Its uncommon for a new home to be constructed here. Officials from the non-profit Home HeadQuarters, which built the house, said Mberwas home is the first home that has been built in a decade in the large North Side neighborhood which sits within the boundaries of Butternut and Danforth Streets, and Lodi Street and Grant Boulevard. According to Home HeadQuarters, which researched construction permit applications in the city to come up with estimates, only a handful of homes have been built in the city in the last 10 years, aside from construction the non-profit has been involved with. Home HeadQuarters, working with the City of Syracuse and the Greater Syracuse Area Land Bank, spent $220,000 on demolition and construction. The organization tore down two dilapidated, boarded-up houses at 705 and 707 First North St. and rebuilt one single-family home, using funding from the New York State Attorney Generals Office and Affordable Housing Corporation. The project began at the urging of community members. Pat Body, the head of the neighborhood group Danforth-Pond-Butternut Task Force, recalled how she and her neighbors began focusing on the two dilapidated homes around 2013, just after advocating to get Tops to take over the grocery store situated across the street, after Wegmans moved out. At 707, it was this big, two-family house that had been boarded up," Body said. "Toilets had been thrown out the side window. It was a mess. She soon learned the house was considered a zombie property, abandoned during foreclosure proceedings. For years, the city couldnt do much of anything about so-called zombie properties. Changes to state law in 2016 allowed city officials to seize the house. From there, the neighborhood group worked with the city, the Land Bank and Home HeadQuarters to demolish the house and rebuild. Now we have this great house," Body said. "One of the things [we] learned was when you work together to continue advocating -- it works. Home HeadQuarters demolished the two houses in 2017 and combined the two addresses into one parcel in 2018. Ground was broken on a new foundation later that year. Home HeadQuarters president Kerry Quaglia said he was excited about the prospect of demolishing and rebuilding properties that are beyond rehabilitation" because of issues such as lead paint and asbestos. Were really excited about this approach where we use new construction for affordable housing," Quaglia said at a ribbon-cutting ceremony today at 707 First North St. Neighbors gathered outside the house for a news conference this afternoon, where Mberwas family was joined by Mayor Ben Walsh and dozens of other officials from the groups that made the house a reality. Syeisha Byrd, who bought a home in the neighborhood through Home HeadQuarters 11 years ago, dropped by the press conference. Byrd said the properties were always an eyesore in the neighborhood, so it was uplifting to a watch as a new home was constructed so quickly. To see a new, fresh beautiful house here is amazing," Byrd said. Byrd said it was important to send a message to people living in the city that, we too can own homes. Thats what Mberwa knew she wanted not long after she moved to Syracuse. She signed up for first-time homeowner education programs, offered through Home HeadQuarters and Empower Federal Credit Union, which supplied a grant to help with the cost of the house. Mberwa, who worked in human resources, and her husband, who works in Liverpool at Trinity Service Group, a food provider for correctional facilities, declined to say how much they paid for the home. Home HeadQuarters did not provide the cost either. Isha was one of those people who was absolutely determined, said Karen Schroeder, chief communications officer for Home HeadQuarters. She knew what she wanted, Schroeder said, adding Mberwa had window drapes picked out before the family closed on the home. Schroeder noted the family was willing to wait for the right property to become available, and showed they were able to save money over several months before the purchase. Mberwa said she was excited about owning her own property and being more in control of her home. Her family went from settling for apartments that were too cramped to picking out paint colors and flooring options as construction began at 707 First North St. Most importantly, Mberwa said she was thrilled for her children, who said they couldnt wait to get moved in and have more space to themselves. The family lives in a three-bedroom apartment now, so with the move, theyll add a fourth bedroom and a second bathroom. For my kids, this is amazing, to have a place to call home," she said. Now, we can live comfortably. Public Affairs Reporter Julie McMahon covers federal courts, government, education and other issues affecting taxpayers. She can be reached anytime: Email| Twitter | 315-412-1992 This weekend in Central New York, the spring high school prom season continues. Our photographers are headed to these events: West Genesee High School senior ball Tyburn Academy of Mary Immaculate prom Liverpool High School junior prom Rome Free Academy junior prom Madison Central School junior prom Hamilton Central School junior-senior prom Sandy Creek Central School junior-senior prom Does your school have an event but is not on our list? Reach out to us by email to let us know. We may be able to send a photographer to capture the moments. You can catch up on all the proms we have already covered this year at syracuse.com/proms. Youll also find coverage of past proms there too. More to come In Central New York, prom season continues throughout the spring. There are events almost every weekend through the middle of June. Heres the long list of the events we know about so far and will do our best to cover: Morrisville-Eaton Middle/High School junior prom Bishop Ludden Jr./Sr. High School gala Syracuse Academy of Science junior/senior prom Cicero-North Syracuse High School junior prom Solvay High School senior ball Union Springs High School junior prom Mexico High School junior prom Hannibal High School junior prom Bishop Grimes Jr./Sr. High School junior/senior prom Manlius Pebble Hill School junior-senior prom East Syracuse-Minoa High School junior prom Christian Brothers Academy senior ball LaFayette High School junior/senior prom Henninger High School junior prom Fayetteville-Manlius High School junior prom Faith Heritage School ball Weedsport High School junior prom Altmar-Parish-Williamstown High School junior/senior prom Belleville-Henderson High School junior/senior prom Dana L. West High School (Port Byron) junior prom Onondaga High School junior/senior prom Skaneateles High School senior ball Henninger High School senior ball Mexico High School senior dinner dance Fabius-Pompey High School junior/senior prom Institute of Technology at Syracuse Central junior/senior prom Public Service Leadership Academy at Fowler senior prom Cazenovia High School senior ball C.W. Baker High School senior ball East Syracuse-Minoa High School senior ball Fayetteville-Manlius High School senior ball Rome Free Academy senior ball G. Ray Bodley High School (Fulton) senior dinner dance Corcoran High School senior prom Cicero-North Syracuse High School senior ball Nottingham High School senior ball Auburn High School senior prom Westhill High School senior dinner dance Vernon-Verona-Sherrill High School senior dinner dance Liverpool High School senior ball Morrisville-Eaton Middle/High School senior dinner dance Does your school have an event thats not on our list and youd like us to consider covering? We want to know about it. Send us an email to let us the school, event and date. If you can provide more information, like the name of the prom adviser or coordinator, that would be even better. Well look into it and see if we can add it to our list. NEW YORK -- A former member of a master/slave group told jurors Wednesday she felt powerless to resist when NXIVM leader Keith Raniere performed oral sex on her in his Halfmoon home. I felt like it was going on for a very long time. I was doing anything to make it stop, said the 32-year-old British woman, the first witness to testify at Ranieres racketeering trial in Brooklyn. The woman, who spent 13 years in NXIVM, is testifying under an immunity agreement with federal prosecutors in Brooklyn. The incident took place in a residence on Flintlock Lane in Halfmoon in 2015. Raniere has owned a townhouse on Flintlock Lane for years. The woman was married at the time and, at Raniere's direction, had remained celibate with her husband for two years. She walked to Raniere's home where he led her upstairs, asked her to undress and took photos. He then performed oral sex on her, she said. When he was done, Raniere told her: "Now you're part of the inner circle." "Did you want to participate in that?" Assistant U.S. Attorney Moira Penza asked the woman on Wednesday. "No," the woman replied. But she said she had been ordered by her "master," identified as Monica Duran, to do as Raniere wished. "I understood that as a command from my master and that was part of my job as a slave," she testified. She said Raniere complimented her for being brave. He explained, she said, "He was my grand master now and he was master of my master, Monica." In her opening statement to the jury on Tuesday, the prosecution had cast Raniere, 58, known as "Vanguard" and the spiritual leader of NXIVM, as a master manipulator who coerced women, and young girls, to have sex with him. At the end of the woman's direct testimony Wednesday, the government played a video of a meeting of Jness, a woman's group within NXIVM, that met in Apropos restaurant in Halfmoon. On the video, NXIVM president Nancy Salzman relayed Raniere's comments that the age of consent in some countries is as young as 12. Raniere faces 15 to years to life if convicted of charges that include sex trafficking, forced labor and wire fraud. Racketeering charges against him also include underlying alleged acts of extortion, possession of child pornography and sexual exploitation of a child. The courtroom was packed for a second day Wednesday. Among the spectators were actress Catherine Oxenberg, whose daughter was in the master/slave group, former NXIVM official Barbara Bouchey and Toni Natalie, a former girlfriend of Raniere. The witness, who is still married, joined a secret group known as DOS, short for Dominus Obsequious Sororium, or "The Vow," because her master, she said, told her it would make her a better person. It required "collateral" -- damaging information about herself or intimate photos -- that she needed to hand over to ensure her obedience if she didn't comply with assignments in the group. It led her to write a letter to her parents that falsely claimed she was a prostitute and included naked photos. Duran had assigned her to seduce Raniere, which ultimately led to her visiting him at his residence. She said the experience left her feeling terrible. "It just felt like a different realm of darkness," she testified, crying. "All around that time I felt shame -- and still do. I just felt like everything was lies and secret and darkness. It was such a horrible time." She said she lost all respect for Raniere, but she was hardly done in the group. She said she was asked to recruit her own "slaves" and ended up asking them for collateral. When one woman in the club was not adhering to rules, she said, word got around that her "collateral" would have to be released. Raniere had said of that woman, who was not identified, "She may need to be the first one to fall." The witness said she left NXIVM and the group after Raniere was arrested in March 2018. Earlier, people in the group around her, including Duran, began leaving the Albany area following news accounts about the group, including its practices of branding women with Raniere's initials. She was later approached by the FBI, she said, and cooperated. The witness said Duran at one point gave her a necklace she called a "dog collar." A commitment ceremony was held. She said Duran also asked for a list of potential slaves. "Everything she asked of me was not optional in my mind," the woman said. "It was a command from my master." The woman said Raniere made it clear her allegiance was to be to him, even over her husband. She said she told Raniere: "My commitment is to (the husband)." Raniere replied: "No -- you're ultimate commitment is to me. I'm your grand master." During cross-examination, Marc Agnifilo, one of Raniere's defense attorneys, asked the woman if she willingly approached Seagram's heiress Clare Bronfman, NXIVM's operations director, about taking a NXIVM course after they met in 2004 in Europe. Both were involved in horse-riding. The woman was then 18. The witness said she did approach Bronfman about taking a course because she thought the course would help get her over her fears. She ended up staying at Bronfman's farm and helped take care of horses there. Agnifilo noted in his questioning that the witness basically lived for free and that Bronfman had paid for her courses. The defense lawyer noted that the woman sent Raniere messages on a regular basis after the incident in his home. The messages, sent on the WhatsApp messaging application, all began with the words, "Good morning Grand Master." The lawyer reminded the witness she repeatedly asked when she could see Raniere -- and once told Raniere she dreamed about him. The messages had red heart emojis attached. "Someone in DOS said you had to put red hearts in everything?" Agnifilo asked the woman. She said she was trying to be the "best slave" she could be. "When I was a slave in DOS, I believed that's what I was supposed to be doing," she said. She said she often told Raniere what she thought he wanted to hear. She later said in cross-examination that Raniere once scolded her for not capitalizing the letter "g" in grand master in a message. "Thirteen years in NXIVM and you stayed?" Agnifilo pressed. She said yes. Earlier, the witness said a blog report by Frank Parlato, a former publicist for NXIVM who became an opponent of it, revealed that women in the group had been paddled. The woman said she was "completely freaked out" by the idea and learned it was true. She said "things sort of slowed down" after the report. Members of NXIVM, including Raniere, actress Allison Mack and Duran, all left the area. Duran asked her to contact her as "M." The witness said last contacted Raniere at Christmas in 2017. The government called its second witness -- former NXIVM member Mark Vicente -- late Wednesday. Vicente, 53, a filmmaker and native of South Africa, said he got involved in NXIVM after Salzman and Bouchey approached him following a documentary he made that they liked. Vicente walked jurors through the network of organizations underneath the umbrella of NXIVM, including Jness and Society of Protectors, an all-male version of Jness, he said. His testimony was expected to resume Thursday at 9:30 a.m. Robert Gavin, Times Union, Albany, N.Y. Sheila Banks recalls the shooting flames, orange and yellow, reflecting in her front window as the house next door -- just a few feet away -- was ablaze in the early morning hours of Oct. 2, 2015. It was, in fact, one of her biggest fears for years, as the vacant Seneca Street house got more run down with each passing day. "I woke up in the middle of the night, went to the bathroom, and as I was walking back, I heard a loud bang, looked at the window and saw flames blowing at my window," Banks recalled. "I glanced to the right, and the house next door was completely engulfed in flames. We hurried and got dressed, got the dogs and walked out the door." The house at 1276 Seneca St. was yet another property flipped by AbdulAziz HouHou and associates -- making it one of 17 that were demolished in Buffalo since the house-hunting spree began in 2013. Half of the 17, the News found, were damaged by fire before being torn down. The Buffalo News reported last month that HouHou, a Kuwaiti real estate broker who is now in prison in Kuwait, and his companies bought or brokered at least 160 Buffalo properties from 2013 to 2016 that were sold to Kuwaiti investors. Victims of AbdulAziz HouHou's $140 million to $240 million real estate flipping scheme are asking authorities to investigate if lawyers, real estate companies and insurance companies in Buffalo and other U.S. cities conspired with HouHou. https://t.co/0hoJENliGr The Buffalo News (@TheBuffaloNews) April 29, 2019 HouHou's operation marketed the houses as "attractive rental properties," with guaranteed rents, but investors say many of the houses ended up being run-down, often vacant, and in troubled neighborhoods. The houses, according to a Kuwaiti court, turned out to be part of a $140 million to $240 million international Ponzi scheme, that also included houses in Rochester, Detroit and Cleveland and vacant lots in Florida and North Carolina. In some instances, according to Ali Al-Attar, an attorney for the Kuwaiti investors, the HouHou organization -- rather than the owner -- was listed as insurance beneficiary on the flipped properties. And there were times, investors said, when insurance claims were filed and collected after fires, but the money was never given to the Kuwaitis investors who owned the burned-down houses. In this case, it's unclear if the Seneca Street house was insured. Kuwaiti owner Mohammed AlSayegh told The Buffalo News that he never received a deed for the house from the HouHou organization, was never told the house burned down, and did not file for or receive any insurance money. He did not know if the HouHou organization collected insurance on the house. HouHou was convicted in a Kuwaiti court last year of fraud and money laundering and was sentenced to 10 years in prison and a $16 million fine. The News attempted to contact HouHou in prison but did not hear back. After Banks read The Buffalo News articles on HouHou's flipping scheme, she recalled the 2015 fire that destroyed the house at 1276 Seneca St. She knew the house well. Banks, 45, lived next door at 1278 Seneca most of her life. It was the home she grew up in. Once she got married, she and her husband, Dennis, 47, lived in the upstairs apartment while her parents remained on the first-floor unit. When her parents died, Banks inherited the house and continued living there. The house next door at 1276 was in good condition when she was growing up, Banks recalled. But the owners who bought the wood frame double in 1998 fell behind on their taxes, and the city foreclosed in 2009. The house, assessed at $30,000, was sold at auction for $6,000. It was one of several foreclosed properties Beaville West, a Batavia-based corporation, bought from the city that year, records show. The house continued to deteriorate during the five years Beaville owned the property, and the only occupant was a man Beaville hired to do some repair work, Banks said. He was squatting for a few months, she said, when a small fire occurred at the house in August 2013. "Luckily a policeman was going by and got the fire out before there was much damage," Banks said. The city boarded the house up, and was considering demolition, Banks said, when, in March 2014, Gregory Levin, who is associated with Glebova Realty in the Town of Tonawanda, bought the house from Beaville for $9,000, records show. Workers came by and began cleaning out the house, and doing what Banks viewed as limited and quick-fix rehabbing. "It was terrible. They were trying to put a Band-Aid on so they could put it on the market," she said. About 90 days after buying the house, Levin sold it to AlSayegh, a Kuwaiti investor, in a deal brokered by HouHou's firm, records show. The deed filed in the Erie County Clerk's office says AlSayegh paid $40,000, but AlSayegh said he paid HouHou's company about $77,000 for the house. In June 2014 , tenants moved into the first-floor apartment of 1276 Seneca St. But there was no gas or electric in the apartment, Banks said. "They're in there in June with no electricity, and can't get a hold of the owner or the property manager," Banks recalled. Not long after, the upstairs apartment was also rented out, she said. "The people were on the downstairs porch sitting on chairs, and the guy upstairs is leaning on the porch railing, and the railing gives way, and he lands on one of the other tenants sitting on a chair," Banks said. By the end of July 2014, the tenants were gone, she said. Others came by to look at the apartments, but none rented, and conditions continued to deteriorate, she said. The railing remained broken. Windows were stolen from the house. The side door was missing. There were no locks on the front doors. There was garbage on the front porch. The sidewalk wasn't shoveled in the winter. The grass wasn't cut in the summer. "My biggest fear was someone would get in and start a fire, and there goes my house," Banks said. "It was three feet from my house." The 1276 Seneca St. house had been empty for over a year, according to Banks, when the fire broke out. Banks and her husband were up late watching television in the living room, and fell asleep on the couch, she recalled. It was unusual for her to wake up in the middle of the night, but she did that night. When she saw the orange glow in the window, she woke her husband. "I jumped up," Dennis Banks recalled. "Thank God she woke up." The fire destroyed the house at 1276 Seneca. Banks' house at 1278 Seneca was saved, but sustained some fire and heavy water damage. "The firemen did an amazing job in saving my house," she said. Banks said she was told the fire was likely an arson. No one was charged. The city eventually foreclosed on 1276 Seneca, and sold it at auction for $500 to the person who also purchased 1278 Seneca from the Bankses. Banks and her husband moved about two miles away. AlSayegh, in a telephone interview with The Buffalo News Saturday, said he was unaware of the fire, or that the house had been demolished shortly after the blaze, or that the vacant lot was subsequently foreclosed on and sold at auction. Like other Kuwaitis caught in HouHou's scheme, AlSayegh, 62, a retired civil engineer, said he was told the house was in good condition and already rented when he purchased it in 2014. But after a few months, the rents stopped, and the HouHou organization provided little additional information on the property, he said. AlSayegh said he purchased insurance when he bought the house, then signed an agreement allowing HouHou's organization to make future insurance, tax and other payments from rent the organization collected from tenants. But AlSayegh said he never received a deed nor any other documents on the property except a one-word notification from a HouHou company in 2016 that the Seneca street property was "vacant." With the realization that HouHou had scammed Kuwaiti investors, AlSayegh said he did not think he actually owned the Seneca Street house. The Bankses, meanwhile, said they are grateful no one was hurt in the fire, but Sheila Banks said the entire episode was frustrating, and raised questions in her mind about long-distance property ownership. "I always questioned how someone from across the world could properly maintain a property," she said. "You have to be there to see what is going on." - By Susan Schulman, The Buffalo News, N.Y. MONTEREY, Calif., May 09, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Association of California Water Agencies (ACWA) today presented its 2019 Excellence in Water Leadership Award to Dr. David Kimbrough, Water Quality Manager at Pasadena Water and Power, for his many years of leadership and service to the California water quality industry. Throughout his career, Dr. Kimbrough has dedicated himself to advancing water quality standards and protecting public health in California. Considered a leading expert and advocate on matters of laboratory accreditation and standards, Dr. Kimbrough has helped bring about significant reforms and improvements to the water quality field across the state. Dr. Kimbrough has made incredible contributions to the California water community, particularly in the areas of public health and water quality, said ACWA President Brent Hastey. With more than three decades of experience, he brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his field. ACWA has greatly benefited from his service to our organization through his leadership of our laboratory issues workgroup, and we are proud to join many of his colleagues in recognizing him for this special award. The Excellence in Water Leadership Award Building a World of Difference recognizes individuals (and groups of individuals) who have made a remarkable and visible contribution to California water. The award, sponsored by Black & Veatch Corporation, was presented during ACWAs 2019 Spring Conference & Exhibition in Monterey where more than 1,500 local water officials are gathered through Friday for programs and panel discussions on a variety of key water issues. For more information about ACWAs awards programs, please visit www.acwa.com/about/awards . Contact: Heather Engel, Director of Communications | (916) 441-4545 | C (760) 217-0627 An Erie., Pa., man was caught with a handgun in his carry-on luggage while going through a checkpoint at the Buffalo Niagara International Airport. Thomas Pearson, 53, was preparing to fly from Buffalo to Philadelphia when he was stopped by federal Transit Security Administration agents, who discovered Pearson had a gun in his luggage, according to Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority Police. Pearson, who did not have a New York State pistol permit, was charged Tuesday with criminal possession of a firearm, NFTA Police said. According to authorities, even travelers with concealed firearm permits are prohibited from bringing guns onto airplanes in their carry-on bags. Those who do are subject to possible criminal charges, authorities said. By Harold McNeil, The Buffalo News, N.Y. The Rome Police Department says its looking for three men who bought three long guns at a garage sale in Central New York. The Utica Observer-Dispatch reports the weapons were improperly sold during Saturdays annual Brookside Development garage sale in Rome, according to police. Officers said theyre just looking to speak to the trio at this time, to rectify the improper sale. According to the Rome Sentinel, the long guns were sold out of a mans vehicle at the garage sale, which is against the law. The buyers have not been identified, and additional information about the guns and seller were not released. Anyone with information about the buyers is encouraged to call the Rome Police Department at 315-339-7719. President Donald Trump has named a Syracuse University law professor to the post of White House associate counsel. Tara Helfman, an associate professor at SUs College of Law, was appointed in April. Helfman, 41, previously served as senior counsel at the U.S. Department of Justice in the Civil Rights Division, beginning in 2017. She is a registered Republican. She earned her law degree from Yale Law School. Helfman specializes in constitutional law, contracts, international law, and law pertaining to oceans, international waters and coastlines, according to an announcement on SU College of Laws Facebook page, congratulating the professor on her appointment. Helfman has earned a reputation as a constitutional scholar with a focus on originalism, the legal theory widely associated with conservative Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia. She recently taught at Georgetown University and in a Q-and-A on the colleges website, said she was a Queens native -- a background she shares with Trump. Helfman is a frequent contributing writer and speaker on areas of the law including executive powers. She was critical of Barack Obamas use of executive orders during his term as president. National news outlets reported in January Trump was beefing up his White House legal team. He hired longtime Washington lawyer Pat Cipollone in December to replace Donald McGahn. McGahn stepped down last year and is currently embroiled in controversy over a subpoena to testify before Congress about Robert Muellers Russia investigation. Cipollone, the new top lawyer at the White House, made several hires over the last few months, according to NBC News. Public Affairs Reporter Julie McMahon covers federal courts, government, education and other issues affecting taxpayers. She can be reached anytime: Email| Twitter | 315-412-1992 Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has long faced condemnation for spreading conspiracy theories about vaccines causing autism, a claim debunked by the Centers for Disease Control, the American Academy of Pediatrics and many other leading health and science organizations around the world. With the United States experiencing its worst measles outbreak in years, due in part to unvaccinated people contracting the virus, his own family is speaking out against his anti-vaccine stances. On Wednesday, Kennedys siblings Kathleen Kennedy Townsend and former congressman Joseph P. Kennedy II, D-Mass., as well as niece Maeve Kennedy McKean, published an article in Politico Magazine accusing him of being complicit in a misinformation campaign. "Robert F. Kennedy Jr. . . . is part of this campaign to attack the institutions committed to reducing the tragedy of preventable infectious diseases," they wrote. "He has helped to spread dangerous misinformation over social media and is complicit in sowing distrust of the science behind vaccines." "We love Bobby," they said, and praised his record on environmental issues. "However, on vaccines he is wrong." The family members point to the work that other members of the Kennedy family, including President John F. Kennedy, have done to promote public health. President Kennedy pushed for Americans to vaccinate their children, and in 1962 signed the Vaccination Assistance Act establishing the first nationwide programs for immunization. But Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has taken a decidedly different path from his famous uncle. In 2005, he alleged in an article published in Rolling Stone and Salon that an ingredient called thimerosal, contained in some vaccines, was dangerous, and that the government was hiding its links to autism. It contained numerous factual errors, for which Rolling Stone had to issue several corrections. Salon ultimately retracted the story and removed it from its website. He has continued to write and give speeches on the repeatedly debunked claims that vaccines cause autism, and leads a group called the Children's Health Defense which propagates misinformation about risks posed by vaccines. In 2000, measles was declared eliminated from the United States, thanks to the country's vaccination practices. But 764 measles cases across 23 states have been reported as of May 3, according to the latest numbers from the CDC. The latest U.S. outbreaks are believed to be caused by travelers bringing back the virus from countries having large measles outbreaks. When unvaccinated people are exposed, they are susceptible to becoming infected with the highly contagious virus. The disease can spread quickly within communities where not enough people are vaccinated to prevent an outbreak. Anti-vaccine sentiment has taken hold in several spots across the United States, creating dangerous conditions for the spread of the virus. Some communities in Washington state have low vaccination rates due to parents' belief that the shots will harm their children. The Washington state legislature has passed a bill that would make it harder for parents to opt their children out of the measles, mumps, rubella vaccine. It is awaiting Democratic Gov. Jay Inslee's signature. A vaccine misinformation campaign targeting Orthodox Jews in New York City is thought to have made the community vulnerable to the virus. There have been 466 confirmed cases of measles in the boroughs of Brooklyn and Queens since September, according to the city's health department. Most of the cases have involved the Jewish community. Last week, Health and Human Services Secretary Alex Azar said the outbreaks were posing an increasing public health risk. "We have come a long way in fighting infectious diseases in America, but we risk backsliding and seeing our families, neighbors, and communities needlessly suffer from preventable diseases," Azar said. In April, the Food and Drug Administration issued a stern and lengthy statement by Peter Marks, director of FDA's Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, urging Americans to vaccinate. We cannot state strongly enough, Marks said, The overwhelming scientific evidence shows that vaccines are among the most effective and safest interventions to both prevent individual illness and protect public health. WASHINGTON - U.S. authorities have seized a North Korean ship used to sell coal, allegedly in violation of international sanctions, the first such move by Justice Department officials as they ratchet up enforcement efforts against the regime in Pyongyang. Justice Department officials on Thursday confirmed that the vessel, the Wise Honest, is approaching U.S. territorial waters in American Samoa, in coordination with the U.S. Marshals Service and the Coast Guard. "This sanctions-busting ship is now out of service," Assistant Attorney General John Demers said in announcing the seizure. The 17,601-ton, single-hull bulk carrier ship is one of North Korea's largest, and U.S. authorities said it was part of a network of North Korean vessels illicitly shipping coal from that country and bringing back heavy machinery in violation of United Nations and United States sanctions. Last year, Indonesian authorities stopped the ship on suspicion of violating sanctions. Recently, Indonesian authorities allowed the ship to offload its coal cargo onto another vessel, which departed for Malaysia. "That was something that was not in our control," said Demers, who added that the U.S. would like to seize other ships North Korea used to violate sanctions. The U.N. Security Council passed a resolution in 2017, banning North Korea from exporting coal. The announcement came hours after North Korea launched a pair of short-range missiles, the regime's second such test in the last week, and it marked an escalation of U.S. government pressure on Pyongyang - even as President Donald Trump has spoken glowingly about North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. Geoffrey Berman, the U.S. attorney in New York whose office filed court papers against the ship, said "there's no connection at all" between the missile strikes and the Wise Honest seizure. Separately Thursday, U.S. military officials conducted a scheduled launch of an intercontinental ballistic missile from an Air Force facility in California. It was the second test of the U.S. Minuteman III missile this month and the third this year, though the Air Force maintains that such activity is scheduled years in advance, and not in response to any world events. Trump told reporters Thursday that the U.S.-North Korea relationship "continues, but we'll see what happens. I know they want to negotiate. They're talking about negotiating, but I don't think they're ready to negotiate." Court papers filed in federal court in New York said shipments by the Wise Honest and other North Korean vessels "provide a critical source of revenue for DPRK-based companies and for the North Korean government." "Large quantities of coal were exported from North Korea . . . in violation of United Nations Security Council prohibitions," the 32-page filing said. "In return, large shipments of heavy machinery were returned to North Korea using the same vessels." The court filing says payments for improvements to the Wise Honest were done via U.S. banks, also in violation of sanctions. Experts have said that to evade sanctions, North Korea conducts its illicit trading with a fleet of ghost ships that paint false names on their hulls, steal identification numbers from other vessels and execute their trades via ship-to-ship transfers at sea, to avoid prying eyes at ports. In the case of the Wise Honest, a globe-trotting North Korean salesman arranged the 2018 shipment by holding meetings at Pyongyang's embassy in Jakarta - and then he paid an Indonesian broker through transfers facilitated by JPMorgan Chase, according to bank documents and other evidence gathered by sanctions monitors. Experts say sanctions enforcement is dependent on the willingness of foreign countries to assist in seizures and charges when violations are discovered. In a separate case last month, a federal judge in the District of Columbia approved a set of subpoenas targeting the financial records of Chinese banks, which might show how the North Korean regime has sought to evade sanctions over its nuclear program. In that case, investigators are probing whether a Hong Kong corporation may have helped North Korea evade sanctions. Groupe BPCE and Natixis extend their insurance partnership with Covea Group for Caisse d'Epargne and Banque Populaire professional clients Paris, May 9, 2019 Groupe BPCE, Natixis and Covea Group have finalized an agreement to renew their partnership on professional risk insurance for Caisse d'Epargne and Banque Populaire customers from January 1, 2020. As of this date, Natixis Assurances will manage new non-life policies for retail customers of Banque Populaire in addition to those of Caisse d'Epargne. This fresh initiative meets the goals set out in Groupe BPCE's strategic plan, TEC2020, and that of Natixis, New Dimension, which aim to make Groupe BPCE a fully-fledged bancassurer and develop a single operating model at Natixis Assurances for non-life insurance for retail and professional customers. From January 1, 2020, new motor and home insurance policies for Banque Populaire and Caisse d'Epargne retail customers will be managed directly by a single platform, BPCE Assurances[1], a 100% subsidiary of Natixis Assurances. As part of this extended partnership, BPCE IARD[2], which is jointly owned by Natixis Assurances and Covea Group, will continue to meet professional clients' insurance needs for both banking networks, in line with Covea Group's Cove@venir 2021 strategic plan. This partnership is a natural extension of the longstanding business relationship between the Groupe BPCE banks and Covea Group in the non-life insurance sector since 1994. The partnership has an initial duration of five years and is renewable by five-year periods thereafter. The arrangement also outlines the conditions for managing policies taken out by Banque Populaire retail customers before December 31, 2019, as they will continue to be managed by Covea Group in accordance with currently applicable terms and conditions. Christine Fabresse, head of Retail Banking and Insurance, member of the management board, Groupe BPCE said: "Groupe BPCE set the strategic goal of becoming a leading insurer at the service of its clients by the end of 2020. This partnership allows us to realize this objective and will enable the Banque Populaire and Caisse d'Epargne banks to further enhance the services they already provide to their retail and professional clients." Jean-Francois Lequoy, member of the Natixis Senior Management Committee in charge of Insurance for Natixis said: "This partnership marks a major milestone in our insurance strategy, and fits clearly with our New Dimension goals, bolstering our position as a leading insurer in France." Joaquim Pinheiro, Managing Director, Customer Relationship, Covea Group, said: "This renewed partnership is resolutely in line with our Cove@venir 2021 strategic plan. It supports the growth momentum we are seeing on the professional client market and our aim to expand in new areas and assert our leadership position." About Groupe BPCE Groupe BPCE operates a universal cooperative banking model represented by 9 million cooperative shareholders and is the second-largest banking group in France. Through its 105,000 staff, the group serves over 30 million clients - individuals, professionals, companies, investors and local government bodies - around the world. It operates in the retail banking and insurance fields in France via its two large networks, Banque Populaire and Caisse d'Epargne, along with Banque Palatine. With Natixis, it also runs global asset management, corporate & investment banking and payments business lines. The group leverages these extensive capabilities to offer a comprehensive and diversified array of deposits & savings, cash management, financing, insurance and investment solutions. Groupe BPCE is recognized for its financial solidity by four major financial rating agencies: Moody's (A1, stable outlook), Standard &Poor's (A+, stable outlook), Fitch (A+, stable outlook) and R&I (A, positive outlook). About Covea A French mutual insurance group, Covea is a leader in damage and liability insurance protecting one in three households in France thanks to its 21,000 employees, who work daily to serve more than 11.5 million policyholders. With three strong brands, MAAF, MMA and GMF, Covea is a solid, dynamic financial player: in 2018, its earned premiums came to 16.9 billion and its capital 15.2 billion. The Covea Group also has operations abroad, where it generates 2 billion in earned premiums. More information at covea.eu About Natixis Natixis is a French multinational financial services firm specialized in asset & wealth management, corporate & investment banking, insurance and payments. A subsidiary of Groupe BPCE, the second-largest banking group in France through its two retail banking networks, Banque Populaire and Caisse d'Epargne, Natixis counts nearly 16,000 employees across 38 countries. Its clients include corporations, financial institutions, sovereign and supranational organizations, as well as the customers of Groupe BPCE's networks. Listed on the Paris stock exchange, Natixis has a solid financial base with a CET1 capital under Basel 3(1) of 11.8 billion, a Basel 3 CET1 Ratio(1) of 10.8 % and quality long-term ratings (Standard & Poor's: A+ / Moody's: A1 / Fitch Ratings: A+). (1) Based on CRR-CRD4 rules as reported on June 26, 2013, including the Danish compromise - without phase-in . Figures as at 31 December 2018 Groupe BPCE press contacts Christophe Gilbert: +33(0)1 40 39 66 00 Lina Mestari: +33(0)1 58 40 76 29 presse@bpce.fr groupebpce.fr Natixis press contacts Sonia Dilouya: +33(0)1 58 32 01 03 Vanessa Stephan: +33(0)1 58 19 34 16 Covea press contact Email: presse@covea.fr Twitter and LinkedIn : @groupecovea covea.eu [1] BPCE Assurances, a fully-owned subsidiary of Natixis Assurances, is currently devoted to non-life insurance for Caisse d'Epargne individual customers. [2] BPCE IARD, co-owned equally by Natixis Assurances and Covea Group, currently provides non-life insurance for Banque Populaire individual customers and also insures Banque Populaire and Caisse d'Epargne professional clients. Attachment Microsoft this week announced that its own full Linux kernel will power WSL2, the newest version of the Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL). This marks the first time that Microsoft will include the Linux kernel as a component in Windows. Microsoft also introduced a Windows command line terminal that will add functionality to PowerShell and WSL. Both the in-house custom-built Linux kernel for WSL2 and the Windows command line terminal are intended primarily for developers. This is a strong move in the battle against AWS more than anything, remarked Joshua Swartz, principal in the digital transformation practice at management consulting firm A.T. Kearney. Microsofts future is not the desktop market though of course the company will continue to protect its ground there, he told LinuxInsider. Its future is the cloud market, which certainly could include desktop components in the future. What WSL2 Does WSL2 is the newest architecture for the Windows Subsystem for Linux. It enables dramatic increases in file system performance and full system call compatibility. Improved functionality is among the top requests from the WSL community. Users can run more Linux apps in WSL2, such as Docker and FUSE, according to Craig Loewen, program manager for the Windows Developer Platform. WSL2 handles file-intensive operations like git clone, npm install, apt update and apt upgrade. The actual speed increase depends on which app is running, and how it interacts with the file system, he explained. Initial tests produced WSL2 running up to 20 times faster compared to WSL1 when unpacking a zipped tarball. It showed a performance boost about two-to-five times faster when using git clone, npm install and cmake on various projects. Potential to Gain Developer Trust Essentially, Microsoft stands to gain the appreciation and trust of the developer community by building its own Linux kernel version to run its WSL2 processes, said Cody Swann, CEO of Gunner Technology. Outside of strictly Windows development, writing cloud apps (mobile, Web, etc.) on a PC has been a miserable experience and has led developers to dual boot a Linux distro aside the Windows OS anyway. Microsoft is acknowledging and offering a solution, he told LinuxInsider. A D V E R T I S E M E N T Its unlikely that the introduction of an in-house Linux kernel will have much impact on consumers, noted Swann. However, it does open the door for more integrated connections between Microsoft services and the Linux operating system. I think [Microsoft] is happy with Windows for consumers but needed to do something for developers, he said. Building its own kernel is an acknowledgment that Microsoft realizes the importance of Linux to Microsofts ecosystem, Swann continued. I could see their teams building in deep integrations in future releases of Windows. It is a really smart play from Microsoft, he said, as it will let them extend deeper into the developer community by leveraging a product someone else open source community is building, said Swann. Welcome to the New Microsoft The shift toward building and maintaining a for Windows Linux kernel reflects CEO Satya Nadellas commitment to open source development. This is no longer the Microsoft of Ballmer and Gates, where everything is kept behind a proprietary fence of like tools and products with no interoperability, said A.T. Kearneys Swartz. Satya has completely transformed that into a more contemporary platform, and that strategy has paid off in spades. Hello trillion-dollar valuation, he quipped. The two biggest benefits for Microsoft are efficiency and security, according to Charles King, principal analyst at Pund-IT. By leveraging its own substantial development assets and tools, the companys customers can be assured that the kernel remains fully current and is tempered with the latest security patches and fixes, he told LinuxInsider. Gain for Devs, Too Linux binaries use system calls to perform many functions, such as accessing files, requesting memory and creating processes. WSL1 relies on a translation layer that interprets many of these system calls and allows them to work on the Windows NT kernel, Microsofts Loewen noted. The challenge involves implementing all of the system calls. That results in some apps being unable to run in WSL1, he said. WSL 2 introduces a whole new set of apps that run inside of WSL. A D V E R T I S E M E N T The new architecture lets Microsoft get the most recent improvements to the Linux kernel much faster than in WSL1. Microsoft can update the WSL2 kernel rather than having to re-implement the changes. WSL2 will be a much more powerful platform to run Linux apps on and will make it possible to do more with a Linux environment on Windows, Loewen maintained. Fully Open Source Tool The development of Microsofts own Linux kernel is the culmination of years of effort from the Linux Systems Group as well as multiple other teams across Microsoft, according to Jack Hammons, program manager of the Linux Systems Group at Microsoft. The kernel provided for WSL2 will be fully open source, and Microsoft will provide instructions for creating a WSL kernel on GitHub, he said. The company will work with developers interested in contributing to help get changes upstream. Microsoft developers built WSL2 using the companys CI/CD systems. The company will service the software through Windows Update in an operation transparent to the user, added Hammons. The kernel will stay up to date with the newest features and fixes in the latest stable branch of Linux. To ensure the provenance of our sources, we mirror repositories locally and continually monitor Linux security mailing lists and partner with several CVE database companies to help ensure that Microsofts Linux kernel has the most recent fixes and mitigations, he explained. Internal Upstream Mandate Microsoft will ensure that all kernel changes go upstream an important philosophy of Linux, said Hammons. Maintaining downstream patches adds complexity and is not standard practice in the open source community. Microsofts goal in leveraging Linux is to be a good citizen and contribute changes back to the community, he added. To protect the stability of the Long Term Support branches, some patches such as for new features might be included only in future versions of the kernel rather than back-ported to the current LTS version. When the WSL kernel source becomes available, it will consist of links to a set of patches in addition to the long-term stable source. Over time, Microsoft hopes this list will shrink as patches make it upstream, and grow as new local patches are added to support new WSL features, Hammons added. Building a Better Window Box Microsoft also announced the upcoming Winter release of Windows Terminal, a new terminal application for users of command-line tools and shells like Command Prompt, PowerShell and WSL. Windows Terminal Windows Terminal 1.0 provides many settings and configuration options that offer better control over the Terminals appearance as well as each of the shells/profiles that open as new tabs, according to Kayla Cinnamon, Microsofts program manager for Windows Console, Command-Line and WSL. Settings are stored in a structured text file, making it easy to configure to create a custom-styled Terminal that is personalized to a users unique taste, she explained. Rather than continuing to tweak the existing Windows Console, Microsoft decided it needed to take a new, fresh approach. Windows Terminal installs and runs alongside the existing in-box Windows Console application, Cinnamon noted. How It Works When a Windows 10 user runs Cmd/PowerShell/etc. directly, the process starts attached to a traditional Console instance. The new terminals configuration mechanism lets Windows users create multiple profiles for each desired shell/app/tool, whether in PowerShell, Command Prompt, Ubuntu, or even SSH connections to Azure or IoT devices. These profiles can have their own combinations of font styles and sizes, color themes and background blur/transparency levels. Users also have the option of selecting the new monospaced font to enhance the modern look and feel of the Terminal. This font includes programming ligatures and will be open sourced and have its own repository. Key features include multiple tabs and beautiful text. Multiple tabs support is the most frequently requested feature for the Terminal, according to Cinnamon. Beautiful text is produced with a GPU-accelerated DirectWrite/DirectX-based text rendering engine. It displays text characters, glyphs and symbols present within fonts, including CJK ideograms, emojis, powerline symbols, icons and programming ligatures. This engine also renders text much faster than the previous Consoles GDI engine. Backward-compatibility remains intact while providing the option of experiencing Windows Terminal when desired. Timeline Revealed Microsoft will deliver Windows Terminal via the Microsoft Store in Windows 10 and will update it regularly. This will ensure that users are always up to date and able to enjoy the newest features and latest improvements with minimum effort, said Cinnamon. Microsoft plans to launch the new terminal this coming winter. After Microsoft ships Windows Terminal 1.0, developers will start work on many of the features already on a backlogged list. The Windows Terminal and Windows Console are now available as open source on GitHub. This summer, Windows Terminal previews will be released to the Microsoft Store for early adopters to use and provide feedback. What Might Come Next? The possibility that Microsoft will use its in-house Linux kernel for other purposes, such as developing its own Linux distro, is a bit of a stretch. That likely depends on whether Microsoft discovers sizable demand or discrete commercial opportunities arising from such an effort, noted Pund-ITs King. For the time being, I expect the company will mainly focus on making Windows and Linux increasingly compatible and complementary, he said. The effort versus payoff would be considerable, suggested A.T. Kearneys Swartz. If Microsoft were a brand new company starting from scratch today, then it probably would build everything on Linux. However, porting everything they have now to a Linux-native architecture would be costly and painful and for little payoff. With this solution, Linux-lovers get their Linux, and the core Windows architecture remains intact, he explained. When Apple reinvented the Mac OS in 2000, it was built atop the BSD Unix OS which is more like Linux than DOS, which is what Microsoft Windows is built atop, Swartz pointed out. Maybe a Door Opener? A Microsoft-built Linux kernel could open the door for more integrated connections between Microsoft services and the Linux operating system. At heart, this effort signals Microsofts understanding that few, if any, of its core commercial customers prefer to live in a homogeneously Windows world, observed King. Instead, they prefer to use the heterogeneous technologies and systems that best suit their business requirements and use cases. Under the leadership of Satya Nadella, Microsoft has matured enough to recognize that point and is doing all it can to make customers lives easier, he said. A more strategic question, said Swartz, is what new capabilities doe this create for the Microsoft platform? Azure, Microsofts cloud ecosystem, already has tremendous support for Linux. Windows previously had very good virtual machine support for Linux, he noted. The change now is that Linux processes will run natively on the Windows kernel, which means you get a much faster Linux experience than you did on the VM, said Swartz. I think its now bringing all the industrial Linux engineers to the Azure table. Forward-looking: While most of the news surrounding foldable phones is currently focused on Samsungs Galaxy Foldand its problemsits easy to forget about the worlds first foldable handset, the FlexPai. A new patent from the company behind that device, Chinese firm Royole, suggests it could be the first to release a different type of bendable: a folding smartphone. Dutch site LetsGoDigital spotted the patent, which was filed in the second half of 2017 before being published on the World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO) website on April 4 this year. As with the FlexPai and other folding smartphones, the design lets users increase the screen real estate of a smartwatch, which typically have small displays, by unfolding it, essentially doubling the size. Magnets are placed behind the display to stop the screen from flipping open when youre walking around with the device on your wrist. It also uses a flexible battery that is placed inside the watch band itself. Another patent shows an alternative design. The display on this smart bracelet unfolds in a different direction and is said to use a type of rotating mechanism. As is the case with every patent, theres no guarantee that any of these designs will become real products, but its certainly an interesting use case for foldable screen technology. Some of the issues people still have with smartwatches are their small, hard-to-use displays and the constant need to recharge them. Its possible that Royoles designs, should they come to pass, could go some way toward addressing these issues. In related news, Google recently revealed it has been working on prototype folding phones for some time, but it will still be a while before we see a flexible Pixel device. The big picture: Amazon believes it fell victim to an "extensive" fraud against many seller accounts. Hackers were able to gain access to about 100 accounts and wire money out over a six-month span in 2018. Between May 2018 and October 2018, Amazon believes these hackers secretly began siphoning money out of the affected seller accounts. This appears to have been a well-organized attack to have been able to target so many accounts. As is common now, it looks like the hackers got in through a phishing campaign. The legitimate sellers would have been presented with a fake log-in page which would in turn steal their credentials. Once the hackers had this information, they were able to change payment information on the seller accounts to point to their own accounts. This allowed the hackers to steal money loaned to the sellers or a portion of the sellers' income. Financial records show the money was sent to accounts the hackers had at Barclays and Prepay Technologies. The legal aspects of this case are playing out in the UK where the stolen money appears to have been wired to. Amazon became aware of the issue last November but the court documents have just now been made public. Amazon said they have finished their investigation of the incident and have located the hackers responsible. Amazon's lawyers have also asked a judge in London to allow a search of account statements at Barclays and Prepay. Bloomberg reached out to both companies for comment on the issue. Barclays declined to comment on the case itself but said they work quickly to close accounts suspected of involvement in such schemes. Prepay did not respond. Update: A previous version of this article stated that Amazon had not been able to locate the hackers. That was true of the original court filing from last November, but they have since found the hackers. What just happened? The Federal Communication Commission has denied China Mobiles bid to establish international service within the US. The company has been trying for eight years to get a foothold in the United States, but the FCC voted unanimously today against allowing the Chinese telecom into the country citing security concerns. In its press release, the FCC stated that China Mobiles application did not establish that the provision of international telecommunication services was in the public interest. The Chinese government, which does not have the best reputation when it comes to privacy and security, owns China Mobile USA. Regulators and intelligence officials are concerned that the establishment of an international service controlled by China poses a national security and law enforcement risk that cannot be mitigated. Delaware-based China Mobile USA first applied for permission with the FCC in 2011 under section 214 of the Communications Act. The application requested that the company be allowed to set up international facilities-based and resale services between the United States and foreign destinations. In April, FCC Chair Ajit Pai issued a statement foreshadowing that China Mobiles request would be denied. After reviewing the evidence in this proceeding, including the input provided by other federal agencies, it is clear that China Mobile's application to provide telecommunications services in our country raises substantial and serious national security and law enforcement risks, said Pai. Therefore, I do not believe that approving it would be in the public interest. After extensively scrutinizing the application, holding discussions with the telecom, and consulting US intelligence and other administration officials, the FCC denied the request. This is the first time executive branch agencies have denied a section 214 application due to concerns over national security. A researcher from the University of Cambridge proposed a new type of money that is unforgeable and secure against attacks from quantum computers. The theoretical framework was dubbed the "S-money." In a paper, the researcher claimed that it theoretically would make it possible to conduct business anywhere in the solar system and beyond in the future. Details of S-money appears in the journal Proceedings of the Royal Society A. Quick And Secure The framework was developed by Adrian Kent, a professor at the Department of Applied Mathematics and Theoretical Physics at the University of Cambridge. "It's a slightly different way of thinking about money: instead of something that we hold in our hands or in our bank accounts, money could be thought of as something that you need to get to a certain point in space and time, in response to data that's coming from lots of other points in space and time," he explained. The framework, he said, can be thought of as virtual tokens that can be traded without the delays of cross-checking and verification across the network but without the risk of double-trading. The data is protected through protocols such as bit commitment: data is delivered from point A to B in a locked envelope that cannot be changed once sent. The data will only be revealed when the recipient provides the correct key. The Future Of Commerce There have been previous attempts to develop a theoretical framework for quantum money. However, Kent noted that, right now, it is not technologically possible to keep quantum money secure for an "appreciable length of time." "Quantum money, insofar as it's currently understood, would require long-term storage of quantum states, or quantum memory," he stated. "This would require an awful lot of resources, and even if it becomes technologically feasible, it may be incredibly expensive." On the other hand, S-money needs large computational overhead but might be feasible with current technologies. Kent, with the Quantum Communications Hub, will conduct a small-scale, proof-of-concept testing later this year. They are aiming to understand how fast the S-money can be issued and spent on a network using off-the-shelf technologies. Kent added that they are trying to find out the advantages and disadvantages of the system. The Cambridge Enterprise has filed a patent application of the research. 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. BARCELONA, Spain, May 09, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- via OTC PR WIRE -- Wuhan General Group (China), Inc. (OTC PINK: WUHN) (the "Company" and "Wuhan"), and M2BIO is delighted to share the voting results of Initiative 301 held in Denver last night. Denver will become the first US city to effectively decriminalize mushrooms containing the psychedelic psilocybin, also known as "magic mushrooms." "This is a big step forward for medicine and research into medicinal mushrooms. No different than how marijuana laws loosened up over time, the same will happen with mushrooms creating huge opportunities," said Dr. Anna, Medical Doctor, CMO of Wuhan. This type of pioneering vote isn't new for Denver or Colorado as a whole. In 2012, Colorado's and Washington's state became the first two states to legalize marijuana for recreational use. Oregon and California, are considering measures to change their laws regarding psilocybin as well. "The Denver vote and results are truly groundbreaking news for Wuhan and M2BIO. We are really looking forward to sharing very soon in details our medicinal mushroom roadmap in South Africa with our partner BioDelta," said Jeff Robinson, MJ MedTech CEO. Leon Giese, Biodelta CEO added: "BioDelta has deep experience in producing medicinal plants under ISO 9001 certification and we are eager to be working with Wuhan to grow and commercialize medicinal mushrooms into our existing supply chain." About M2BIO M2BIO aims to develop new therapies that will help patients who suffer from mental illness and ease the burden on healthcare systems globally. This division will be exploring additional indications for psilocybin, with the goal of bringing new therapies to market. Psilocybin mushrooms (AKA magic mushrooms, or shrooms) is the name given to fungi that contain psilocybin, a naturally occurring psychedelic compound. Psilocybin mushrooms have been used in therapeutic settings to treat a wide variety of ailments and disorders including cluster headaches, obsessive-compulsive disorders, anxiety, depression, and addiction. About Wuhan General Group (China), Inc. Wuhan General Group (China), Inc. through its wholly-owned subsidiary MJ MedTech is a nutraceutical biotechnology company that research, develops and commercializes a range of CBD-based products under the Dr. AnnaRx brand. In addition, its new division, M2BIO aims to explore and develop additional indications for psilocybin new therapies that will help patients who suffer from mental illness. Our mission is to advance botanical-based medicine to the forefront by deploying best practice science and medicine, clinical research and emerging technologies. For further information contact: Publicly traded company (OTC Pink: WUHN) Website: www.wuhn.org Public Relations E-mail: info@wuhn.org Forward-Looking Statements: Safe Harbour Statement - In addition to historical information, this press release may contain statements that constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Securities Act of 1933 and the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements contained in this press release include the intent, belief, or expectations of the Company and members of its management team with respect to the Company's future business operations and the assumptions upon which such statements are based. Prospective investors are cautioned that any such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, and involve risks and uncertainties and that actual results may differ materially from those contemplated by such forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause these differences include, but are not limited to, failure to complete anticipated sales under negotiations, lack of revenue growth, client discontinuances, failure to realize improvements in performance, efficiency and profitability, and adverse developments with respect to litigation or increased litigation costs, the operation or performance of the Company's business units or the market price of its common stock. Additional factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contemplated within this press release can also be found on the Company's website. The Company disclaims any responsibility to update any forward-looking statements. Source: Wuhan General Group (China), Inc. A team of scientists at the University of Michigan has observed the first instance of transitive inference in invertebrates among paper wasps. In a study featured in the journal Biology Letters, evolutionary biologist Elizabeth Tibbetts and her colleagues sought to prove whether invertebrates or animals that do not have backbones or bony skeletons are capable of logical reasoning. The researchers focused on a particular form of thinking known as transitive inference (TI), where organisms use known relationships to try to identify unknown ones. An example of this is if A > B, B > C, C > D, and D > E, then it can be said that B > D. Instances of TI have mostly been seen among vertebrates, such as birds, fish, and monkeys. Scientists tried to observe transitive inference in invertebrates, specifically honeybees, during an earlier study. However, they failed to do so, likely because the nervous system of the insects was too small to allow TI. Transitive Inference In Paper Wasps For their experiment, Tibbetts and her team chose to study paper wasps because of their similar nervous system to that of honeybees. The insects also possess complex social skills, which may be able to show transitive inference. The researchers collected specimens of paper wasp queens from different locations in Ann Arbor, Michigan. They focused on two species of the insects: the Polistes dominula and the Polistes metricus. The paper wasps were trained in a laboratory to identify certain pairs of colors known as premise pairs. The team associated one of the colors in each pair with a mild electric shock. Not only were they able to learn the premise pairs quickly, but they were able to do so accurately as well. When the paper wasps were later made to pick out colors from pairs that were not familiar to them, they were still able to do so. The researchers said the insects organized the information using an implicit hierarchy then identified the correct pairs through the help of TI. Tibbetts said they thought the paper wasps would get confused, much like the honeybees during the previous study. However, the insects had no problems choosing which colors were safe in certain situations and which ones were not in other situations. Differences In Social Behavior Between Wasps And Bees The cognitive ability in paper wasps may be explained by the differences in social behaviors between them and their honeybee counterparts. Colonies of honeybees are governed by a single queen bee and operated by numerous equally ranked workers. Meanwhile, colonies of wasps are ruled by reproductive females called foundresses. These female wasps compete with each other, forming several linear dominance hierarchies. An individual wasp's standing in the hierarchy determines just how much share it has in the colony's work, food, and reproduction. It is likely that the insects use TI to identify novel social relationships between other members of their hive. The paper wasps in the experiment may have also used this form of cognitive skill to organize different information spontaneously during the transitive inference tests, according to the researchers. The study's findings may help answer the question among researchers on whether higher-order reasoning is needed for TI or if the skill can be carried out by following simple rules. 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Samsung's new Galaxy Tab S5e is reportedly losing its Wi-Fi connection when the users holds it wrong. Needless to say, it's a frustrating and major design flaw. Galaxy Tab S5e Issue As reported by SamMobile, the Galaxy Tab S5e's Wi-Fi connection slows down or drops when it's held in a landscape orientation with the front camera on the left. In that position, the user's hand is covering the lower-left corner of the tablet, where the Wi-Fi receiver is presumably located. That's assumed to be the root of the issue. An obvious work-around is to hold it the other way around where the front camera will be on the right side instead. That way the integrated receiver will be on the upper-right corner without anything blocking it. Of course, using the Galaxy Tab S5e in portrait mode with the camera at the top won't cause any issues either since the receiver won't be blocked that way as well. Using it in a vertical position with the camera at the bottom is a different story, though. Samsung has reportedly sent out replacements to users affected by the issue, but SamMobile says that problem still persists because it stems from the position of the Wi-Fi receiver, noting that a software update likely isn't going to solve it. According to tests the news outlet carried out, it couldn't recreate the situation where the Wi-Fi connection dropped completely. However, it did see a 50 percent reduction in the connection's strength. Samsung has yet to acknowledge the issue and announce a solution. Ring Any Bells? It's also worth mentioning that a similar thing has already happened before, but it wasn't with Samsung. Back in 2010, Apple's iPhone 4 kept losing connection when users held it in a certain way. This paved the way for what's known as Antennagate. The Cupertino brand claimed that only several iPhone 4 units were affected by the issue. Hopefully, that's also the case with the Galaxy Tab S5e. 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. RALEIGH, N.C., May 09, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- SECU Foundation is pleased to announce its support for ReCONNECT NC, a program developed by the Institute of Emerging Issues (IEI) at NC State University. A $60,000 Capacity Building grant from the Foundation will assist IEI with implementation of the program in two northeastern North Carolina counties, Edgecombe and Pasquotank. The $30,000 funding for each site will help cover operation and programmatic support as community leaders work together to focus on the projects topic of reconnection to explore the root causes of the disconnect North Carolinians are experiencing and identify solutions that will re-engage citizens with the community to restore civic health for the long term. SECU Foundation Board Chair Bob Brinson presented ceremonial checks to program officials during special events held recently in Rocky Mount and Elizabeth City. The Institute for Emerging Issues is a non-partisan public policy organization a think-and-do tank, whose mission is to enhance the states long-term prosperity. IEI launched ReCONNECT NC in 2017 after reaching out to thousands of North Carolinians asking, whats the biggest issue facing our state over the next five years? Their responses noted one common theme: people in North Carolina are feeling more disconnected than ever to work, to civic institutions, to one another and they want to do something about it. ReCONNECT NC is a three-year forum series focused on reconnecting the states citizens in five diverse communities, with each working to address a specific challenge. The Institute of Emerging Issues has been working collaboratively with top leaders and organizations since 2002 to bring social and economic issues affecting North Carolinas future to the forefront, said Mr. Brinson. We are no strangers to their pioneering work, having also partnered with them for several years to expand their Prize for Innovation competition for college students throughout the state. We are proud to offer our support for ReCONNECT NC this program is a wonderful example of what can be accomplished when civic and business leaders come together with the local community to address major issues facing our state. The Institute for Emerging Issues is really excited to be able to work with SECU Foundation to make this great community work, and the broader work we are doing across the state with our ReCONNECT NC series, all happen, said Leslie Boney, Director of the Institute for Emerging Issues. The work these communities are engaged in is making a difference already in their neighborhoods and towns. The support from the Foundation enables these community groups to take their work to the next level and to inspire others across the state. About SECU and the SECU Foundation A not-for-profit financial cooperative owned by its members, SECU has been providing employees of the state of North Carolina and their families with consumer financial services for nearly 82 years. The Credit Union also offers a diversified line of financial advisory services including retirement and education planning, tax preparation, insurance, trust and estate planning services, and investments through its partners and affiliated entities. SECU serves over 2.4 million members through 266 branch offices, nearly 1,100 ATMs, 24/7 Member Services via phone and a website, www.ncsecu.org. The SECU Foundation, a 501(c)(3) charitable organization funded by the contributions of SECU members, promotes local community development in North Carolina primarily through high impact projects in the areas of housing, education, healthcare and human services. Since 2004, SECU Foundation has made a collective financial commitment of more than $154 million for initiatives to benefit North Carolinians statewide. Contact: Jama Campbell, Executive Director Office: 919-839-5562 | secufoundation@ncsecu.org Lafayette Regional Airport has received a $10.5 million federal grant to go toward financing taxiway improvements, Congressman Clay Higgins announced Thursday. The Lafayette airport is one of two Louisiana airports to receive the Federal Aviation Administration's Airport Improvement Program grants. Baton Rouge Metro Airport is receiving a $15 million grant. The Lafayette Regional Airport grant is part of the $90 million terminal project expected to be complete by early 2022. This is a hard-fought investment in south Louisianas infrastructure, Higgins said. With a new terminal under construction and airfield improvements on the way, Lafayette Regional is one of the fastest-growing airports in Louisiana. These enhancements will generate new commercial activity, greater travel and tourism, and more economic growth in Acadiana. U.S. Sen. John Kennedy said: The Baton Rouge and Lafayette airports bring thousands of people to Louisiana every year and serve as hub for commerce, tourism and the last stop on the way back home. These grants will help fund projects that will improve the functionality and efficiency of both airports. Inside info on doing business in Acadiana We'll keep you posted on the Acadiana economy. Sign up today. e-mail address * Sign Up Baton Rouge and Lafayette are growing. Their airports need to grow with them. Construction of the $90 million Lafayette Regional Airport terminal will replace the current 62,000-square-foot terminal, which is about 60 years old. Work began last fall and is expected to be complete in 24 months and will feature five gates. Passenger traffic continues to rise at the Lafayette airport. It reported 22,946 passengers flying out of the airport in April, an increase in more than 3,000 from a year ago. It also reported 22,699 arriving passengers in April, also an increase in more than 3,000 from a year ago. The airport terminal project is a partnership and the FAA is an important partner, airport director Steve Picou said. "This grant represents another key piece of the funding necessary to make the new terminal a reality. We thank Congressman Clay Higgins and Congressman Garret Graves for their continued support of the Lafayette Regional Airport and the ongoing efforts to improve our passengers experience at LFT. New Orleans band Roadside Glorious is set to slam into Dyson House at The Zee on Saturday and the impact crater the band leaves most likely wi Employees of Ponchatoula Junior High School staged a walkout Thursday morning to demand clearer policy on how they should intervene whenever student fights break out on campus. "They want a policy that states what they should and shouldnt do. They want training to do it, because they dont want to lose their jobs," said Dina Esquinance, president of the Tangipahoa Federation of Teachers. The walkout came in response to the dismissal last week of two Ponchatoula Junior High School teachers who were seen on a viral video restraining a student on a concrete courtyard. In the video, which authorities have said shows what happened after one of the teachers stepped in to break up a fight, one teacher can be seen forcing the girl to the ground, while another pulls her by the leg underneath a picnic table. Tangipahoa Parish teachers have said Superintendent Melissa Stilley's decision to fire those teachers has made them uncertain about how they ought to respond when students fight. Esquinance said 17 teachers walked off the job around 7:30 a.m. Thursday, just after students arrived. She said nine took personal days, while the others used sick time for which they will later be docked pay. They stood outside along La. 22 and waved signs through the afternoon at cars driving by, Esquinance said. Images from the scene show teachers wearing red and waving signs with slogans such as "#Respect" and "How many teachers have to be assaulted until policy is made?" The teachers were joined by some bus drivers, students and others, Esquinance said. Esquinance said the teachers planned to return to work Friday. Stilley said in a statement she was disappointed by the teachers' decision to stage a walkout, as they were afforded a chance to voice their concerns to the School Board on Tuesday night. School nonetheless proceeded, Stilley said, and district staff filled in for the missing teachers as needed. "The school is operating on their normal schedule all is good," Stilley wrote in a noon email. There are 43 teachers at Ponchatoula Junior High, she said. +4 Tangipahoa teachers demand clarity on firings over viral video, 'risk of losing our careers' AMITE About 50 teachers, support staff and their backers filled the Tangipahoa Parish School Board chambers Tuesday to protest the terminati Can't see video below? Click here. 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 Esquinance said the teachers decided to proceed with the walkout after Tuesday night because they felt unheard. No one had reached out to them about their concerns on Wednesday, she said. "It was almost like 'OK, you came and said your piece. And that's it,'" Esquinance said. Stilley said in a statement Thursday that she and the board are working on a new policy for handling school violence. Those guidelines will be in place for next school year, she said. I completely understand the frustration we all have about how to handle disrespectful and violent students. I understand that our teachers and principals want to be protected, supported and respected by the administration," Stilley said in a statement. "At the same time, as we were making these very difficult and unpopular employment decisions, we were and will continue working very hard on real solutions to the ensure the safety of our students and employees on all of our campuses. We must hold all students accountable for their inappropriate behavior, but we must do so within the clear boundaries we have set for our employees. On Tuesday night, Ponchatoula Junior High School teacher Simone Ingram said the terminations made teachers fear that their own jobs would be at risk if they stepped in to stop a fight. She said teachers at the school would not step into a physical altercation until they receive a clear policy. Esquinance said her members would do the same. They arent going to stand and watch," Esquinance said in a statement. "They will certainly use their voices, theyll send a student to the office to get help, theyll use the intercom to request help, theyll yell down the hallway, but they simply arent going to become physically involved any longer. They cannot afford to. The video below is graphic. Can't see video below? Click here. After video shows white teachers restraining black Ponchatoula student, man accused in bomb threat A 22-year-old man was arrested after police say he called in a bomb threat to a Ponchatoula school Friday, apparently in response to a video c NDO/VNA Chairman of the National Council (Upper House) of Bhutan Tashi Dorji will pay an official visit to Vietnam from May 11-14, the Vietnamese National Assemblys Committee for External Affairs has announced. LOS ANGELES, May 09, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- In another escalation in the widening scandal surrounding the University of Southern California (USC) and Dennis Kelly, a physician who treated student-patients, 18 more current and former students joined in a lawsuit alleging sexual harassment and misconduct, bringing the total number of men who have come forward to 50. Two men publicly came forward for the first time to discuss their experiences. With todays announcement, the number of plaintiffs has quickly grown to 50 young men who allege they suffered abuse at the hands of Dennis Kelly and an indifferent USC administration, said Kelly Van Aken, partner at Kellogg & Van Aken LLP, representing the plaintiffs in the lawsuit. Thanks to the efforts of the news media and LGBTQ community, we are seeing more and more men bravely come forward to tell their stories. Kellogg & Van Aken LLP filed the original civil lawsuit against USC and Dr. Kelly on February 11th in the wake of news regarding George Tyndalls abuse of female students at USC when several male USC graduates came forward with their own allegations regarding the mens health physician at USCs student health center. An amendment to the original complaint adding 15 additional plaintiffs was filed March 4th, while another law firm filed its own lawsuit on April 22nd with another 11 men alleging misconduct against USC and Dr. Kelly. The complaints allege Dr. Kelly engaged in inappropriate sexual misconduct and discriminated against them based on their sexual orientation or gender. At todays press conference, one current and one former USC student came forward to publicly discuss their encounters with Kelly for the first time. From the very first interaction with Dennis Kelly, I was quite uncomfortable because of his invasively sexual questions and the creepy smile he had on his face throughout the conversations. His questions ranged from my sexual practices all the way to the ethnicity, age, and appearance of my partner at the time As an international student, I was already uneasy talking about my sexual life, while I didnt know what is and what is not ok for a doctor to do and ask, said Ali Jalal-Kamali, a current PhD student, who discussed his encounter with Dr. Kelly. Also speaking was John Keyse, a USC graduate who was active in campus LGBTQ organizations. Today, I know that Dr. Kelly performed my rectal exam in a medically unnecessary way that seemed designed to maximize my embarrassment and discomfort. As we now know, USC not only failed its male students with Dr. Kelly, but also its female students with Dr. Tyndall. By speaking out today, my goal is to ensure that as USC is reforming its student healthcare system, we end up with a system that is not just acceptable, but that is a national model for what a student healthcare system can be, Keyse said. The new complaint specifies that: Dr. Kelly was targeting the gay and bisexual male student population all of whom were young adults and some of whom were visiting the doctor without a parent for the first time by subjecting them to intrusive and medically unnecessary rectal examinations. Dr. Kelly did not treat men he knew to be heterosexual or men who were not interested in men in a similar manner and did not penetrate their anuses or perform rectal examinations. Mikayla Kellogg, partner at Kellogg & Van Aken LLP, also blasted USC for opposing California Assembly Bill 1510, legislation which would allow student survivors of sexual assault one year to bring claims which would otherwise be barred by Californias statute of limitations. It is outrageous USC is the lone opponent of AB1510, Kellogg said. What is even more appalling is USCs brazen willingness to disregard the well-being of its own students by hiring a powerful San Francisco lobbying firm to try and kill this bill that is supported by a broad coalition of consumer advocacy groups, womens groups, and civil rights organizations. On the eve of USC commencement and a new USC president this summer, we hope the USC community rallies around these young men and stands with them in demanding the USC administration fix what is so badly broken at USC, Kellogg added. Kellogg & Van Aken Kellogg & Van Aken is a civil litigation firm dedicated to seeking justice for tenants, individuals who have been harmed, and survivors of sexual abuse and assault. Native Louisiana trees given away at May the Forest Be With You program Prosecutors are hoping to recover hundreds of files deleted from the phone of the former LSU fraternity member accused in the 2017 hazing death of Max Gruver. In a search warrant filed Wednesday, prosecutors are requesting that Google turn over account information and content, as well as all deleted data, from two Google accounts associated with Matthew Naquins phone from August through December 2017. Gruver died on Sept. 14, 2017. Officials believe Naquin, 21, erased much of his phone's content during the criminal investigation of Gruver's death, but hope he used the two Google accounts to back up his phone's files and data, according to the search warrant. +2 FBI unlocks defendant's cellphone in fatal LSU hazing case; here are next steps A cellphone seized from a former LSU student accused in the 2017 hazing death of fraternity pledge Max Gruver has finally been unlocked after Gruver, an 18-year-old from Roswell, Georgia, died of alcohol poisoning following a hazing ritual dubbed Bible study, in which Phi Delta Theta pledges were required to chug hard liquor if they gave wrong answers to questions about the fraternity. Both pledges and active Phi Delta Theta members identified Naquin as the leader of the hazing ritual, and the most aggressive, in interviews with investigators. Naquin has been charged with negligent homicide. Two other former fraternity members have already pleaded guilty to misdemeanor hazing in the case. In March, the FBI unlocked Naquin's phone after a long legal battle over privacy rights and after addressing technological roadblocks. Naquin declined to provide authorities with the passcode to his phone after an initial search warrant was filed to search the device. His attorney, John McLindon, had also argued that accessing his client's phone was a violation of his fundamental right to privacy, later calling the FBI's crack of the phone a "big blow to privacy rights." Can't see video below? Click here. Data was retrieved from his phone but a significant amount of data was deleted from his phone after Mr. Gruvers death," the warrant says. The prior search warrant for his phone was filed in November 2017, and prosecutors believe Naquin deleted much of his phone's data that day. 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 By running a data extraction report, officials determined that hundreds of data files were deleted from Mr. Naquins phone on the very night, November 8, 2017, at 9:58 p.m., that this Honorable Court signed said search warrant," the search warrant filed Wednesday says. The state hopes to recover the deleted phone data from Google." East Baton Rouge District Attorney Hillar Moore III said they hope this latest search warrant will give them the deleted files, as well as help them understand how and why the files were deleted and when they were. The timing for us is surely something were very interested in, Moore said Thursday. But he would not say whether his office is considering additional charges, like obstruction of justice. We'll just continue to investigate, he said. An attorney representing Naquin, Brant Mayer, said their team is still working to review the data prosecutors were able to mine from the phone after the FBI unlocked it. He said they will wait to comment on this new search warrant until they can determine for themselves what was, and was not, available on the phone. In 2017, Google reported they received more than 97,000 requests from government authorities to disclose user data, and that in about 65 percent of those cases, they produced some data. LSU Greek Life investigation began after former fraternity council president made DKE hazing allegation LSUs former Interfraternity Council president has confirmed that he was a key figure in the universitys recent investigation into whether sc "Generally speaking, for us to produce any data, the request must be made in writing, signed by an authorized official of the requesting agency and issued under an appropriate law," reads a statement on a webpage that explains Google's policy on transparency. "If we believe a request is overly broad, we'll seek to narrow it." Naquin, of Fair Oaks Ranch, Texas, is set to stand trial July 8 on negligent homicide, a charge that can carry up to five years in prison. An autopsy showed Gruver's blood-alcohol level was 0.495 percent, which is more than six times the legal limit to drive in Louisiana. The autopsy also detected the chemical found in marijuana, THC, in his system. Local religious leaders gathered Thursday morning in Baton Rouge to learn about protecting their congregations against both natural disasters and human attacks following recent violence against worshipers around the world from the St. Landry Parish church burnings to the mass shooting at a New Zealand mosque that killed dozens of people. "All our houses of worship are under attack. This hatred is not focused in just one area," said Robin McCullough-Bade, executive director of the Interfaith Federation of Greater Baton Rouge. "All of us should be appalled. We need to find ways, as people of faith, to support each other." The federation helped organize Thursday's training program for religious leaders in conjunction with the Mayor's Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness. It was held at the Louisiana Capital Area Red Cross offices and attracted several dozen participants. The training covered a wide range of topics, from hurricanes and floods to arsonists and active shooters. +5 Accused church arsonist facing hate crime charges, denied bail; photos, news clippings helped ID suspect OPELOUSAS Digital evidence presented Monday places 21-year-old Holden Matthews at the scene of all three fires he is accused of setting, inv "You hope that when people come to worship, they would be in a safe place," McCullough-Bade said, referencing several recent attacks including deadly shootings at synagogues in both California and Pittsburgh. "There are just no words that can describe this hatred but these are the times that we are in." Sgt. Bryan Taylor of the Baton Rouge Police Department said officers "can't be everywhere all the time" so it's important for the general public to educate themselves on how to react in an active shooter situation. Such knowledge could save lives in the moments before law enforcement arrives on scene. "If running doesn't work and hiding doesn't work, you have one choice: to stay there and fight," Taylor said. He advised that people take simple steps such as locating exits and hiding places ahead of time. Taylor added that he carries a gun when he attends church "because if some coward comes in and wants to do something bad to innocent people, I'm gonna stop them." The question of whether congregants should be encouraged to arm themselves has risen to the forefront in the wake of recent attacks. Louisiana law gives religious leaders the discretion to allow the practice as long as the person has a concealed carry permit and has completed additional tactical training that specifically addresses places of worship. 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 Many local congregations started having those discussions after the November 2017 shooting that left 26 people dead inside a Texas church. The shooter in that attack appears to have acted out of anger toward his wife and her relatives who attended the church. +2 Major security changes enacted, views on guns in BR places of worship changed after Texas massacre Just four days after the tragic killings of 26 people at a Texas church, the Rev. David Collins, an Albany pastor, gathered leaders in his con Taylor said religious leaders should be aware of the threats that can result from domestic issues erupting in public, and contact law enforcement if they see signs of domestic abuse among members of their congregations. A recent proposal would expand the state's "stand your ground" law to protect people who use deadly force in houses of worship. State legislators will consider making that change during the current legislative session. The law now applies only to houses, businesses and vehicles. The training also addressed protecting against arson, which organizers said was added to the program in light of the St. Landry fires earlier this year that destroyed three historic black Baptist churches before the suspected arsonist was arrested. Baton Rouge Fire Department spokesman Curt Monte said congregations should follow some common sense guidelines, such as installing smoke detectors, keeping doors and windows locked, and removing materials that could be used for kindling. "We all do our best to have faith and bring God into our lives and pass that on to our children, but unfortunately that isn't the case for everyone. When someone burns down a place of worship, it doesn't just burn a building it burns your soul," Monte said. "This is the time and the world we live in. We need to be prepared." WASHINGTON President Donald Trump has joined the push to protect patients from costly surprise medical bills a frustrating health care issue that Louisiana Sen. Bill Cassidy has often highlighted. Cassidy, R-Baton Rouge, joined Trump and a bipartisan group of lawmakers at the White House on Thursday to announce a renewed effort to eliminate the sticker shock some patients face in medical emergencies when they receive care from a provider that isnt in their insurance network. Theres general agreement that patients should be held harmless, Cassidy told reporters after the meeting. The president made his commitment to doing so clear. But details about the proposal, which Trump said would generate bipartisan support, remain murky. The president said he hoped to have a more specific plan in two weeks. If we get this the way we want it over the next two weeks, I think youre going to see something really great," Trump said. Its something that will have a tremendous impact. Surprise bills happen most often after someone seeks medical care in an emergency room. A common scenario is when the hospital is in network, but the patient is treated by an out-of-network doctor. Additionally, some specialists, who are brought in for surgeries and other procedures, such as anesthesiologists, can be out-of-network and prompt additional out-of-pocket costs. In announcing the effort, Trump welcomed to the White House people who shared their stories of facing thousands of dollars in unexpected medical bills. Ohio native Paul Davis, told how he had to settle a $17,850 bill his daughter, Elizabeth Moreno, faced for a urine screening after a back procedure because it was out of network. "And this type of billing is all too common not just among dishonest providers," Davis said. "The problem of improper medical billing affects most those who can afford it least." 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 Trump said stories like that are all-too-common. "I've heard them for years, myself friends, where they just come back and they get a bill that they can't understand it," he said. But doctors and the insurance industry have long disagreed on the right path forward. Cassidy and Sen. Maggie Hassan, a New Hampshire Democrat who also joined Trump for the White House announcement, said they are waiting for information from the Congressional Budget Office on a few ideas they are weighing before coming out in favor of one plan. Medicaid cuts in GOP health plan could have major impact in Louisiana; here's who would be affected Despite a national focus on the individual insurance markets, the Republican health plan being debated in Washington could have far more sweep Cassidy has, in the past, proposed legislation that would ban out-of-network providers from billing patients directly for costs that exceed the in-network price. Separately, Hassan has previously proposed legislation that would establish an arbitration process between insurers and providers to negotiate a fair price. During a Thursday morning briefing call on the proposal, a senior administration official said in emergency situations the Trump administration wants to adopt a plan in which overall payments would be determined with negotiation between the provider and the private insurer. In cases of pre-scheduled surgeries and other procedures, the aim is to ensure more upfront information including written cost estimates, according to the official, who outlined the proposal for reporters on condition of anonymity. Im not wedded to a particular solution. Im wedded to the right solution," Cassidy said. As rain poured down on the Baton Rouge area Thursday afternoon, flooding and high water was reported in spots around the area. For the Baton Rouge area, a flood warning is in place until further notice, a flash flood watch is in place until 7 p.m. Friday, a tornado watch is in place until 6 p.m. and a flash flood warning until midnight. The area circled in WHITE on this radar image shows where we are VERY concerned about flash flooding for the next several hours. A FLASH FLOOD WARNING is in effect for #BatonRouge and surrounding cities. TURN AROUND DON'T DROWN! #lawx pic.twitter.com/Psqn1SSZF4 NWS New Orleans (@NWSNewOrleans) May 9, 2019 The National Weather Service tweeted that forecasters are very concerned about flash flooding for the next several hours in much of the area around Baton Rouge. The storm continues to drift south, sending more rain in to New Orleans, according to the National Weather Service. Flooding on Mammoth Avenue in Baton Rouge...Choctaw/Monterrey area. #LAwx : Julian Escobar pic.twitter.com/SQs0shCniC Steve Caparotta, Ph.D. (@SteveWAFB) May 9, 2019 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 Multiple on and off ramps at Acadian Thruway were closed during the rainfall. Acadian Thruway is closed in both directions at the underpass due to flooding. La. 42 Burbank Drive is also closed due to high water. Power lines downs are also down at Riley / Longfellow and the lights are out at Plank between Dawson and Hollywood. High water was reported at the following locations, according to Red Stick Ready. Scenic/72nd North Blvd / 5th and 6th St Woodale / Florida 22nd / Government North / 10th Port Hudson-Pride/Scott Barr N Foster / Florida 7000 Scenic Essen Lane Corporate/Hilton 200 Broadmoor / Meadowood 8300 Summa Ave 8247 Sholar Dr Essen/Picardy Acadian / I-10 Carter / Lasalle Antioch / Jefferson Carson / Liberty Nicholson / Gourrer Follow the latest on the weather here. The most preposterous scene in the new movie Bolden may not be the one where the eponymous hero is thrown from the gondola of a hot-air balloon and parachutes down blowing his pristine jazz cornet to tempt the picnicking crowds away from his rival John Robichaux's relatively genteel orchestra. That's because pretty much the entire movie is preposterous, as was only to be expected. Director Dan Pritzker and his collaborators had to make most of it up because so little is known about the life of Charles Buddy Bolden. The opportunity to see a movie about a seminal historical figure from New Orleans is hard to resist, but do not go to this one expecting to find familiar locales and accents. It was shot for the most part in Wilmington, North Carolina. English actors play Bolden and the racist Judge Leander Perry, who, though his name was presumably inspired by the old Plaquemines Parish segregationist boss Judge Leander Perez, is an entire fiction. So too is the footage that shows Bolden falling from the sky as he performs a clarion solo, but among the few things we know about him is that he and his band played at Lincoln Park in the Gert Town section, where balloon rides were a regular attraction in the early 1900s. Robichaux, an accomplished musician and band leader who was the polished downtown counterpoint to Bolden's earthy uptown exuberance, performed there and at the adjacent Johnson park regularly. So the balloon scene is a flight of fancy with a least a tenuous connection to reality. George Baquet, who was on clarinet in the Robichaux orchestra in the movie as Bolden materialized like some aerial pied piper, did indeed play with both of them in real life. The movie is accurate too in showing that Baquet could keep playing his clarinet while he disassembled it until only the mouthpiece was left. Any Baquet family reference will command a lot of interest around here. Not only was George the most gifted of three successful musician brothers, but the family went on to become a major force in the restaurant business. Later scions took up journalism; Dean is editor of The New York Times. As for what the movie tells us about Bolden, the little bit that is true was already well known; the bulk that is new is made up. Thus, we have the evil Judge Perry, played by Ian McShane, not only consigning Gary Carr's Buddy Bolden to the Louisiana lunatic asylum in Jackson, but arranging to destroy the cylinder recording he had made with his band. In fact, the fate of the cylinder, if it ever existed, is unknown, and Bolden, in the grips of alcohol-induced psychosis, was committed in 1907 by his mother. Leander Perez at the time was 16. Bolden died in the asylum in 1931, aged 54. Although there is no Bolden recording, and everyone who heard him play is long dead, a lot of his contemporaries testified to his lung power and improvisational genius, and we may be reasonably sure the movie sound track captures his sound. Pritzker enlisted Wynton Marsalis to record it, which he did by synthesizing the styles of contemporaries King Oliver, Bunk Johnson and the hard-driving cornetist who inherited Bolden's title as king of the New Orleans music scene, Freddie Keppard. In fact, far and away the best part of the movie is close to the end when Bolden, four months from death, is listening to a Louis Armstrong concert on the radio while recalling his own heyday, and Marsalis masterfully recreates the sounds of both. Of course, the music was bound to be superb with Marsalis in charge. But he is also listed as joint producer of the movie, which comes way short of measuring up. Pritzker could afford to make any movie he wanted he and his cousin, Illinois Gov. Jay Pritzker, belong to the family that owns the Hyatt hotel chain and is worth billions but the point of this one is hard to discern. Fans of gratuitous sex and violence might like it, however. Email James Gill at Gill1407@bellsouth.net. Purchases made via links on our site may earn us an affiliate commission A few minutes after the Louisiana Senate on Monday overwhelmingly rejected allowing a statewide vote to abolish the death penalty, senators ra It's been a year since Kelsey Campion left her career as a commercial photographer to fully devote her time and abundant energy to Fringe + Co., a clothing and apparel company that she owns and operates out of her Mid-City apartment. The Minnesota native lived all over the world before relocating to New Orleans right before Mardi Gras in 2016. That the timing of her move coincided with the citys biggest holiday was serendipitous. Campion, who previously had pursued a doctorate in forensic psychology, had been soul-searching and honing her sewing skills after leaving her academic program in order to pursue something more creatively fulfilling. I had no clue what I was going to do, she says. I had followed a straight and narrow path before I uprooted everything. While living in Milan, the style capital of the world, Campion, a lifelong fashion enthusiast, was inspired by the head wraps (held in place by hidden wiring) worn by fashion-forward Italian women. Id always struggled with keeping accessories on my head, so I took that inspiration and made it my own, she says. When she arrived in New Orleans, a place where sporting a costume or festive accessory on a regular day isnt uncommon, Campion purchased some fabric and started making her own headpieces, while holding down a job as a commercial photographer. I wore [a head wrap I had made] into a store in New Orleans, [and] the owner asked where I got it, she says. Demand snowballed from there, and in the following months, her apparel selection grew to include distinctive jumpsuits, high-waisted pants and other sparkly items, all handcrafted by Campion. Her side hustle became a full-time job. About a year and a half in, I couldn't devote 100 percent to either one of those things, she says, and decided to leave commercial photography to pursue fashion full time. Her signature T-shirts (party tees), which retail for $98, are fashioned out of vintage and retro finds that she discovers while scouring thrift stores and spending late nights on eBay. Campion repurposes the shirts and embellishes them with colorful sleeves, most often featuring sequins and feathers. She also is working on a line of crop tops. Like many tech-savvy entrepreneurs, Campion attracts much of her clientele through Instagram (@fringe.and.company). She also recently addressed a crowd at a panel during New Orleans Entrepreneur Week, discussing the metrics (however unconventional) of success. Mostly, it's been fans and friends who've spread the word, she says. Customers can place orders online, but many of her creations are one-of-a-kind and best seen and purchased in person at various pop-ups and events around the city. Her clothing and apparel are all made locally, and shed like to keep it that way, but she has been expanding her market beyond New Orleans and just hired some extra help to assist with sewing projects, managing the website and online orders. Client communication and how I source things is very important to me, she says. I want to add things that bring joy to peoples lives. Its vital that Fringe + Co. continues to build the celebratory community that embraced her as a newcomer and encouraged her to be bold, she says. Campion plans to host a sequined pub crawl in late May or early June to raise funds to help fellow small business entrepreneurs with start-up costs. She wants her own creations to reflect a fearless mentality, and to inspire members of the community to be part of things, to be brave and bold and excited and happy, she says. TORONTO, May 09, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- IBI Group (TSX:IBG) announced today that it will be using Microsoft Azure as part of its transformation to a technology-driven design firm, and the ongoing rollout of the firms Strategic Plan. IBI Group will be hosting two of its recently released software-as-a-service (SaaS) products on Azure. The firm has also developed a series of productivity chatbots in-house within the platform, taking advantage of Azures intelligence services, including the Microsoft AI Platform, Cognitive Services and Azure Machine Learning, as well as its hosting capabilities. The Azure platform provides a go-to-market channel for IBI Groups SaaS portfolio, and the Azure team offers an extensive global network of marketing and technical support. As one of the key pillars of IBI Groups Strategic Plan , the firm is applying technology and improved processes to its core professional consulting business. IBI Groups series of industry-leading chatbots, developed in-house by its Design Technology team, are designed to increase the efficiency and productivity of staff and allow them to focus more on project delivery and the creative quality of their work. Innovating within Azure, IBI Groups chatbot development team has scaled the Azure bot framework to the firms 2,600 staff through Microsoft Teams; leading the AEC industry in chatbot development and adoption. A second pillar of the firms strategic transformation centres on the launch of a suite of SaaS products that add revenue streams throughout the lifecycle of the assets the firm designs. Two of these recently launched products InForm by IBI Group and TravelIQ will be hosted in Microsoft. InForm is an asset management solution for the buildings and transportation sectors. TravelIQ, launched publicly today, is a traveller information solution for transportation agencies and private-sector clients. IBI Group is also using Azure in its highway tolling solutions to host customer self-service websites, and provide disaster recovery services to toll operators. Microsoft has been an important collaborator with us as we continue to lead the industry in the adoption of technology across all areas of our business, said Scott Stewart, IBI Group CEO. Using Microsoft Azure, both internally through our chatbot development team, and to bring our SaaS products to market, gives us a global framework of support and expertise and allows us to innovate at an accelerated pace. Suzanne Gagliese, Vice President One Commercial Partner, Microsoft Canada, said, We are pleased to be a part of IBIs technology transformation. Working with their chatbot development team has allowed us to innovate together in new ways and further explore the platforms capabilities. We look forward to continued collaboration and support of IBIs new product portfolio through Microsoft Azure. Microsoft is also part of the Smart City Sandbox , serving as technology provider. Conceived and developed by IBI Group, the Smart City Sandbox unites like-minded, public- and private-sector partners to foster innovative new products and solutions focused on improving the quality of life in urban environments. For more information or to speak with an IBI Group professional, please contact Julia Harper at Julia.harper@ibigroup.com or 647-330-4706. About IBI Group IBI Group Inc. (TSX:IBG) is a globally integrated architecture, planning, engineering, and technology firm with over 2,600 professionals around the world. For more than 40 years, its dedicated professionals have helped clients create livable, sustainable, and advanced urban environments. IBI Group believes that cities must be designed with intelligent systems, sustainable buildings, efficient infrastructure, and a human touch. IBI Group is a lead partner of the Smart Cities Council North America. Follow us on Twitter @ibigroup and Instagram @ibi_group. Media Contact: Julia Harper, IBI Group julia.harper@ibigroup.com 1-416-596-1930 ext. 61187 or 1-647-330-4706 A push for Louisiana to become the final state needed to ratify the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) is on its last legs after the State Senate voted 9-26 today against the amendment. The 1972 amendment which has been ratified by 37 of the 38 states needed for it to become part of the United States Constitution would grant women constitutional protections. It states that equality of rights under the law shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any state on account of sex. Sen. Beth Mizell, R-Franklinton, said she would consider voting for the amendment if it had abortion-neutral language. Sen. JP Morrell, D-New Orleans, who sponsored the bill, argued that the ERA predated the abortion debate. In an interview Tuesday, he said that he expected this argument to come up in the Senate floor debate. I'm sure they have placeholder people who will make the same arguments, and I look forward to kind of diffusing them one by one, Morrell said in an interview with Gambit. Will it ultimately lead to us being successful? No, but I think it serves a purpose of having a debate for the public to see these kind of crazy arguments that have existed for 40 years and no longer have any base society. Theyll see they're still being utilized by lobbyists, by business interests and by politicians who are tone-deaf, he added. Morrell made a motion to reconsider the amendment at a later date, and a House version of the bill by Rep. Robby Carter, D-Amite, is still pending the House Civil Law and Procedure committee. Louisiana Right to Life (LARTL), who has stated its opposition to the amendment, released a statement following the vote, praising Mizells statements on the floor. "Senator Mizells clarifications amidst an often misunderstood issue was essential to defending life today, LARTL Executive Director Ben Clapper said. Mizell is a model of a successful pro-life woman leader for Louisiana." The Louisiana Democratic Party released a statement against the decision. Resolution to ratify Equal Rights Amendment advances in Senate committee along partisan lines After passionate discussion involving hot-button topics ranging from abortion to the draft, a state Senate committee narrowly advanced a resol Im disheartened by my colleagues decision to not pass the [ERA] through the Senate, said Sen. Karen Carter Peterson, D-New Orleans, who chairs the Louisiana Democratic Party. Louisiana had the chance to make history, protect women from discrimination and take an important step toward equality in our state and nation. Unfortunately, we failed. However, womens rights activists who have worked for decades to pass the ERA say theyre not going to cease their efforts. Camille Moran, director of the Louisiana Coalition for the ERA says this is the farthest the amendment has gotten in the state legislature since the early 1980s. Were not going to stop just because this is the vote, Moran said. Were going to get back to work tomorrow. The Jefferson Parish Council has asked the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to extend the public comment period on a proposed expansion of a fleet of barges moored on the Mississippi River near Waggaman. It is another attempt by the council to slow or reverse the bureaucratic process that companies use to increase activity on the river, but it was not immediately clear whether the resolutions passed Wednesday will prove too little, too late. The council asked both the Corps of Engineers and Louisiana's congressional delegation to extend the Corps' public comment period and to schedule a public hearing to allow residents to sound off on the project. The resolutions also request a Corps representative to come to the council's May 22 meeting to explain the permitting process. American River Transportation Co., known as ARTCO, is now allowed to moor 17 barges near Waggaman. According to its request filed with the Corps, the company wants to add another 13. The current configuration has two rows of eight barges extending into the river, plus a single barge by itself; the proposal is for three rows of 10. ARTCO is a subsidiary of Archer Daniels Midland. The permit application is only for "fleeting," essentially the parking of barges in a particular area. It wasn't clear whether the expansion would lead to an increase in other operations on the river, such as dredging or barge cleaning. But nearby residents in Harahan, River Ridge and Waggaman, already concerned about the overall level of industrial activity on the river, say they don't want any additional expansion of operations without a better understanding of what the consequences could be. 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 Harahan resident Lisa Karlin said in an interview that people who live along the Mississippi River have had to endure noxious odors, loud banging noises and unidentified particulate matter falling from the sky at night. They are not in the mood to let industry expand without scrutiny until the sources of those problems have been identified, she said. "We are concerned about how much is happening on the river so close to us," said Karlin, adding that residents "are so alert for anything that could affect our environment, we are taking action right away." A spokesman for the Corps could not say late Wednesday whether the office had received a request to extend the 30-day public comment period, which began on April 8. He said permit applications are typically approved or denied between 90 and 120 days after the comment period closes. Councilman Ricky Templet, who suggested the resolutions Wednesday, said he does not necessarily oppose the expansion, but that residents who are concerned about increased industrial activity along the river deserve more time to submit their opinions and a chance to air them in a public forum. In April, the council reversed its own approval of a proposed cyanide plant expansion at the Cornerstone Chemical Co. complex in Waggaman. That project is still awaiting state approval, but residents became aware of it several months ago and also that the council had signed off on it unanimously in January 2018. That prompted council members to rescind the earlier action by a 6-1 vote. Cornerstone sued, and the matter is now in court. That action followed more than a year of complaints about noxious odors descending upon residents of Waggaman, Harahan and River Ridge at night, causing respiratory problems and burning eyes, noses and throats. The parish has admitted to problems with the gas and liquid containment systems at the parish-owned landfill in Waggaman, though it has always contended it is not the sole cause of any odor problems. Repairs at the landfill began last year and are in the final stages of completion. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers said Thursday that it expects to open the Bonnet Carre Spillway next week for the second time this year to deal with the rising water level in the Mississippi River. Based on current weather forecasts, the reopening is scheduled to occur Tuesday at 10 a.m., when the water flow in the Mississippi is expected to hit the trigger point of 1.25 million cubic feet per second. It was not clear Thursday how many of the spillway's 250 bays will be opened. The New Orleans district's recommendation for a reopening must be approved by the Corps' Mississippi Valley Division commander, but that is expected. Maj. Gordon Davis, the deputy district commander, said at a news conference that Corps officials had met with local stakeholders to discuss the potential environmental impacts of flooding the brackish waters of Lake Pontchartrain with fresh river water for the second time in a few months before making the recommendation. That recommendation, he said, does not come easily, and we take the decision very seriously. Above all," he said, "the safety of the public is our main concern and weighs the heaviest in our decision. The Corps opens the spillway when it determines it is necessary to keep the level of the Mississippi lower than 17 feet above sea level at the Carrollton gauge in New Orleans. As of Thursday, the gauge was at 16.8 feet. Heath Jones, the local Corps districts chief of emergency management, said the amount of water coming down the river over the past several months is unprecedented, starting with Hurricane Florence in September and continuing in the months that followed. Jones said the Mississippi River drains 41 percent of the country. Its been one of the wettest years in the Mississippi Valley, agreed Dave Ramirez, chief of water management for the Corps' New Orleans office. Theyre saying its the most precipitation rain and snow in over 125 years. Its an unprecedented amount of water thats coming down. The spillway has been opened just 13 times since it was built in 1931, though this would be the third opening in 15 months. Beginning on Feb. 27, 206 bays of the spillway were opened, diverting up to 213,000 cubic feet of water per second into Lake Pontchartrain before the structure was closed completely in April. A reopening would mark the first time in the structure's history that it has been opened twice in the same year. The effects of the diversion are of some concern because it floods the lake, which is a mix of fresh and salt water, with fresh river water. Spokesman Ricky Boyett said the Corps will work with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and the state Department of Wildlife and Fisheries to monitor the effects of opening the spillway, including any reports of dead dolphins and turtles. Also of concern in the affected waters are several types of sturgeon. Boyett said the area oyster reefs between Lake Borgne and the Mississippi Sound have seen a mortality rate of 5 to 10 percent for seed oysters but only 1 percent for larger, marketable oysters. John Lopez, director of the coast and community program for the Lake Pontchartrain Basin Foundation, said his and other groups will be monitoring the effects of a second spillway opening closely. He said the lake hasnt fully recovered from the first opening, so in that sense, it may be less impactful to open the spillway again. The larger issue, he said, is whether opening the spillway multiple times in a season is becoming the new norm. If it is, diversion projects in the state's Coastal Master Plan and others not yet devised will become increasingly important. Oysters and other marine life may be able to survive the impact of spillway openings in the short term, but the long-term effects would undoubtedly be more harmful. Can't see video below? Click here. A steadily declining number of state inmates over the past two years has helped Louisiana lose its unwanted status as the nations incarceration capital. But the drop in prisoners also threatens to pinch budgets for sheriffs some of whom built jails on the promise of an endless supply of state inmates. Help, if you can call it that, has arrived. Many of the beds left empty by the state are now being filled by asylum-seekers and others detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Several Louisiana sheriffs and a small-town mayor have inked deals with ICE to hold thousands of detainees within the last year, arrangements that will send an influx of federal dollars to those agencies and to LaSalle Corrections, the Ruston-based private prison operator that helps run three of the jails. Taken together, the four agreements will provide about 2,800 detention beds for ICE, more than doubling the agencys detention capacity in Louisiana amid a surge in the number of asylum-seekers and immigrants who arrived in the U.S. illegally and are being held under lock and key by federal authorities. If ICE fills all those beds, the number of ICE detainees sitting in local Louisiana jails will also match almost perfectly the drop in state prisoners housed in parish and municipal jails 2,692 since state lawmakers passed a bipartisan criminal justice reform package aimed at cutting Louisianas nation-leading incarceration rate. Louisiana houses a higher percentage of state inmates in local jails than any other state, but officials have been trying to rely less on local lockups as inmate numbers fall mainly because jails overseen by sheriffs are thought to offer less in the way of rehabilitation than state prisons. The sudden surge of ICE detainees headed to local Louisiana jails comes amid a federal immigration crackdown under President Donald Trump, who has pushed zero-tolerance policies toward those living in the country illegally and ramped up deportations. The Trump administration has also moved to keep nearly everyone seeking asylum in the U.S. locked up in detention centers as their applications move through backlogged immigration courts even as the number of new asylum-seekers has spiked. Previously, new arrivals fleeing violence, political repression or persecution were regularly released in the U.S. while immigration courts processed their cases, as long as an initial hearing found they have a credible fear of returning to their home countries. But thats changed under the Trump administration. Immigration authorities overseeing asylum cases in Louisiana now deny such requests across the board, said Homero Lopez, managing attorney for Immigration Services and Legal Advocacy, a New Orleans-based legal nonprofit that represents immigrants held in Louisiana. Thats sent ICE scrambling to find space to house record numbers of immigrants held in custody. Detention facilities along the U.S.-Mexico border have been filled beyond capacity in a situation Trump administration officials themselves have called a humanitarian crisis. In Louisiana, its found jails with room to spare. I can confirm that, due to an influx in Southwest Border cases and the increased need for ICE detention capacity, ICE has begun using new facilities in Louisiana in recent months, Bryan Cox, a spokesman for ICE, told The Advocate. For a handful of Louisiana sheriffs and the small town of Richwood, just outside Monroe, the influx has provided a financial boost. Swapping state inmates for immigrants facing deportation or seeking asylum is a potentially lucrative trade for those that operate local Louisiana lockups. ICE is paying Louisiana jails about $65 a day on average for housing detainees. The state Department of Corrections pays a whopping $24.39, as Bossier Parish Sheriff Julien Whittington sarcastically put it to local news reporters last June. He made that remark just after more than 200 ICE detainees arrived at his medium-security facility in Plain Dealing, a town about 20 miles north of Shreveport, to fill bunks that had until recently held state prisoners. But advocacy groups that fought for years to drop Louisianas status as the nations top jailer expressed alarm that detained immigrants were now filling recently emptied prison bunks. Even if Louisiana was putting fewer people behind bars for violating state laws, they said, officials and facilities around the state still depended on inmates for sustenance. Louisiana isnt done with its affair with mass incarceration, said Jamila Johnson, senior supervising attorney for the Southern Poverty Law Center, which has lobbied for criminal justice and prison reforms in the state. Whittingtons jails, for years among the largest local recipients of Department of Corrections prisoners, now hold an average of 222 federal immigration detainees, according to ICE figures. That will bring in at least $2.6 million more per year than housing a similar number of state inmates. The state reimbursement rate has remained stagnant since 2008 and state prison officials last year threatened to further reduce it at the same time that Whittington struck a deal with ICE. Sheriffs are now lobbying Louisiana lawmakers for a $4 per day raise for holding state inmates. The proposed boost would cost the state an estimated $25.8 million a year, but would still leave its rate for housing prisoners at less than half that paid by ICE. Allen Parish Sheriff Doug Hebert III, whos held an average of about 50 detainees for ICE since 2016, just spent more than $5 million building a new detention center in part to better accommodate those immigrants held for ICE and the flow of money as much as $1 million a year that comes with them. 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 We want to be able to use some of that revenue to add more patrolmen, detectives and narcotics (officers) and improve services, Hebert told the Lake Charles American Press newspaper in November. Just opening a jail will create new jobs, but we want to be able to improve services which before we could only do with limited tax dollars. Hebert was blunt about what more inmates, especially federal ones, would mean. Folks ask me if I just want to build this thing to make money, Hebert said while announcing plans to build the new jail in March 2017. Absolutely so that I can spend money in this office and with these folks and I can pay them the salary commensurate with the job theyre doing. The sheriffs in Jackson and Concordia parishes have also struck deals with ICE to house federal immigration detainees. Their jails are both operated by LaSalle Corrections, a for-profit jailer with long-standing ties to Louisianas prison system. Billy McConnell, LaSalles managing director, said cuts to the states prison rolls put an extra burden on lockups the company operates in partnership with sheriffs, who were already contending with stagnant payment rates. I think probably every sheriff in the state thats in that market would tell you its very difficult to pay your bills in the current environment, McConnell said. ICE contracts have helped, McConnell said, but the higher federal payments also come with dramatically different costs to run an immigration detention facility. The standards ICE mandates for its contract immigration detention facilities are way beyond the minimum requirements Louisiana sets for local jails, McConnell said, which drives up the expense of running the facility. Neither Jackson Parish Sheriff Andy Brown nor Whittington, the sheriff in Bossier Parish, responded to requests for comment for this story. Concordia Parish Sheriff Kenneth Hedrick referred questions to Warden Lance Moore, who didnt returns calls. Louisiana has long relied on parish jails to house state prisoners, a system thats led some local lawmen mostly in rural areas to build facilities far larger than they might otherwise need. Prospects for a steady flow of cash motivated town leaders in Richwood to sign off on filling their jail with more than 1,000 ICE detainees early last month. LaSalle also runs the Richwood facility. But the city government will get a cut of the money paid out by ICE $1.50 per detainee for agreeing to the deal, according to local news station KNOE. That adds up to nearly $550,000 per year flowing from ICE into the towns coffers. I believe that it was a home run. It was a win-win for Richwood, Alderman Simeon Profit told KNOE after voting in favor of the deal. Mayor Gerald Brown didnt respond to multiple messages from The Advocate. The $1.50 per diem paid in Richwood is very similar to other numbers but not the exact same as what LaSalle pays the sheriffs in Jackson and Concordia parishes, said McConnell, the prison firms management director. He declined to share specifics. Although ICE has for years held large numbers of immigration detainees, the vast majority an average of 2,133 detainees last year have been housed at a pair of permanent ICE detention facilities in Pine Prairie and Jena, both of which are managed under contract by Florida-based GEO Group, one of the countrys largest for-profit prison operators. The agency also holds several hundred immigrants at a staging facility at Alexandrias airport, which ICE uses as a hub for deportation flights. In the past six months, ICE begun occasionally using the local jail in Natchitoches, about an hour away, to hold some immigrants awaiting deportation when a holding facility closer to the airport is full. The Natchitoches Parish jail housed more than 340 state inmates in October 2017, just before key provisions in Louisianas criminal justice overhaul went into effect. Natchitoches Parish now houses just over 140 state inmates, a drop thats costing the sheriff about $1.2 million in state payments a year, according to Department of Corrections figures. Roger Henson, the chief of corrections for the Natchitoches Parish Sheriffs Office, said the change forced him to cut jobs. Henson said the agency reached out to ICE and the U.S. Marshals Service to help offset the costs of running the lockup. That way we were able to make up some of that difference, said Henson. A jail is really not there to make a whole lot of money, if any. Its been difficult to even break even. Just two Louisiana sheriffs housed immigration detainees for ICE in their jails at the start of 2018, according to ICE data: Allen Parish and St. Tammany Parish, which ICE has used for years as a short-term processing and transfer point for immigrants recently picked up by ICE agents. Many of the people ICE is shipping to Louisiana appear to be migrants from Latin America who applied for asylum in the United States, according to several Louisiana-based immigration attorneys whove represented asylum-seekers and immigrants in ICE custody. Cox, the ICE spokesman, said he couldnt comment on whether individuals held by ICE had claimed asylum. Some immigration attorneys and advocates deplore ICEs push to send detained immigrants to far-flung jails in rural Louisiana, saying the lockups are far from legal aid groups and are located in areas that have already strained medical services and few interpreters. Any relatives that a detained immigrant might have in the United States likely live far from towns like Plain Dealing or Ferriday, making visits expensive and challenging. Jails, and particularly smaller rural jails, just arent set up to handle this population, said David Fathi, director of the ACLUs National Prison Project. Its harder to provide adequate condition of confinement for this population in rural areas. Judges at the two immigration courts in the state are particularly skeptical of asylum claims, Lopez and other attorneys said, meaning most asylum-seekers held in Louisiana will likely be sent back to their home countries. If youre the Trump administration and want to stick them somewhere away from family members where they wont get relief (from the courts), Louisiana is a great place, said Lopez. Louisiana is set to become the first state to adopt an Amazon-branded cloud-computing degree for its state college systems. Starting with a two-year program at the 12 schools in the Louisiana Community and Technical Colleges System, state authorities said they expect to expand it beyond this summer to four-year computer science degree offerings across the University of Louisiana System, as well as at the Southern University and LSU systems. The degrees will offer a curriculum developed by Amazon Web Services called "AWS Educate," with subjects covering areas like artificial intelligence, voice and face recognition, and gaming. Amazon will not contribute any money to the college systems or creating a scholarship program, but it will provide "human capital" in the form of staff who will teach the system's information technology instructors Amazon's cloud-computing tools and techniques, according to Quentin Taylor, a spokesman for LCTCS. The head of Greater New Orleans Inc., the city's economic development agency, which brokered the deal, said the closer links between industry and academia mark a trend. We are seeing an unprecedented collaboration between our higher ed and industry partners, and the integration of the AWS Educate curriculum is yet another milestone for this collaboration," said Michael Hecht, GNO's CEO. "In Greater New Orleans and all across Louisiana, we have become a model for workforce training programs." Louisiana has been ardently pursuing technology companies to locate in the state to diversify the economy, offering tax incentives and other inducements, as well as links to the higher education systems for biotechnology and IT. 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 At a news conference announcing the deal in Baton Rouge, Gov. John Bel Edwards said, "This means our students will be at the forefront of a degree program that is in direct response to the growing needs of tech employers throughout Louisiana." The program is designed to be vocational and funnel graduates into jobs at Amazon and other tech companies requiring specific cloud-computing skills. The program will "focus on real-world, applied learning experiences," and give students access to "AWS Educate Job Board," which advertises thousands of cloud-computing jobs and internships worldwide. Rene Cintron, chief academic affairs officer at LCTCS, says the academic program will contain more than just the AWS Educate syllabus, with advice from an outside panel of experts. "We do need collaboration between industry and academia, and not just from the computing industry but from automobile, petrochemicals, aerospace, even agriculture. All of those industries now are using the cloud to store data," Cintron said. Canada's Air Transat said Thursday that it will begin offering nonstop flights between New Orleans' Louis Armstrong International Airport and MontrealTrudeau International Airport from November. The new connection will bring to eight the number of direct international destinations connected to New Orleans airport and is the latest in a slew of new flights added ahead of the opening of the new airport in Kenner later this year. Las Vegas-based budget carrier Allegiant started a nonstop seasonal service from New Orleans to Louisville International Airport in February, and Sun Country said last month that it will begin direct flights between New Orleans and Providence, Rhode Island from September. The latest addition will connect New Orleans directly to 55 cities, with Montreal joining Toronto among the international connections, which also includes London, England; Frankfurt in Germany; and Cancun, Mexico. "The addition of this new flight brings us to a total of eight international destinations, which allows us to connect more and more people from around the world to everything New Orleans has to offer," said Kevin Dolliole, aviation director for New Orleans Airport. The new Montreal flights will begin just after the opening of the new terminal, assuming it keeps to its latest schedule. 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 Last month, New Orleans Airport authorities said the scheduled May opening of the $1.3 billion, 972,000-square-foot facility would be delayed for the fourth time because of necessary "tweaks", and would now open in the fall, more than a year-and-a-half behind the original schedule. The new facility, the first completely new airport terminal in the U.S. in a decade, is being built just north of the existing terminal and will have the same number of gates - 35 - but a centralized checkpoint to avoid bottlenecks, which have been an increasing problem as passenger numbers continue to set records. Last year, more than 13 million passengers past through the New Orleans airport. The St. Bernard Parish Library wants readers to reach for the stars as part of its A Universe of Stories summer reading program that includes rewards for reading as well as a series of activities and performances throughout the summer. When the kids participate in the summer reading program, it helps them to maintain their reading levels ... so they wont dip over the summer break, and hopefully it installs a lifelong love of reading, said Janet Perez, the librarys youth services coordinator. The librarys six-week program will begin June 3 and end with prize drawings for the pre-readers through fifth graders on July 12 and for teens and tweens on July 13. Early registration begins May 29. Readers of all ages can register to receive activity sheets, official summer reading bookmarks and event calendars. The first 200 pre-readers through fifth graders to sign up will receive a mini-astronaut figure. Everyone registering between May 29 and June 6 will receive a free movie pass to see the 30th anniversary showing of "Bill and Teds Excellent Adventure" at Chalmette Movies. Weekly activities such as story craft programs, special guest visits and arists performances will be launched each week. The librarys Summer with the Arts series has been expanded to include select Saturday programming in addition to the long-standing Friday performances. Two programs are scheduled for the Teen and Tween participants. All activities will be listed on the calendar given out during registration. In addition to the free programs, readers will be able to win prizes by completing their activity sheets and having their names entered in prize drawings. Prize sponsors include: Chalmette Movies, Coffee House of Arabi & Nunez, Crave Bar and Grill, Facials by Skin Diva, Infinity Science Center, Kiwanis, Louisiana Childrens Museum, McDonalds of St. Bernard, New Orleans Paddlewheels/Jean Lafitte Swamp Tours, PJs Coffee, Raising Canes Chicken Fingers, Splash Express Car Wash and Wows Cafe & Wingery. Businesses interested in becoming a sponsor should contact the library. For information, visit the library at 2600 Palmisano Blvd. in Chalmette, call (504) 279-0448 or visit the librarys website at www.mysbpl.org. Memorial Day Ceremony The Vietnam Veterans of VFW Post 3798, the National Park Service and the National WWII Museum will come together to honor Americas fallen troops at Chalmette National Cemetery in honor of Memorial Day. The Vietnam Veterans group will present a ceremony at 12:30 p.m. Sunday, May 26, at the national cemetery, 8606 West St. Bernard Highway, Chalmette. The ceremony will include a color guard, bagpiper, Recognizing our Roots Youth Living History Program and remarks from post members. Vietnam War veterans buried in the cemetery and members of the post interred elsewhere will be honored with a special salute. The public is invited to this free event. Volunteers are needed to assist staff and volunteers from Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve and The National WWII Museum in support of Memorial Day. Volunteers can sign up for the Memorial Day projects online at www.nps.gov/jela or by calling (504) 589-3882 ext. 120. 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 On May 24, flags will be put at every headstone in the cemetery. The project begins at 7:30 a.m. and usually takes about two hours to complete. The flags will be picked up and repackaged for storage beginning at 7:30 a.m. May 28. Junior Deputies program Parish youths ages 10 to 13 can register for the St. Bernard Sheriffs Office annual Junior Deputy program. Formed in 2015, the Junior Deputy Academy is designed to foster community pride and self-esteem in boys and girls while teaching them about various aspects of police work. Our Junior Deputy Academy program affords children a chance to learn something about law enforcement and have some fun at the same time, Sheriff James Pohlmann said. The Junior Deputy Academy, which is patterned after the sheriffs Citizens Police Academy for adults, will be held two days a week, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. June 4 to July 11, at the Sheriffs Office Training Center, on the second floor at 2118 Jackson Blvd. in Chalmette. The program is led by Capt. Charles Borchers, head of community relations, and Sgt. Eric Eilers. Deputies from various divisions of the Sheriffs Office, including Patrol, Narcotics, Marine and Criminal Investigations, visit with participants. Participants will visit St. Bernard Parish Prison. They will be taught firearms safety at a local shooting range and will learn basic first aid and CPR. Members of the St. Bernard Fire Department also participate. To register for the Junior Deputy Academy, parents can call Borchers at (504) 278-7628 or Eilers at (504) 278-7799. Maumus STEM Camp Science, technology, engineering, and math will be a part of this year's summer camp put on by the St. Bernard Parish Public School System at the Maumus Science Center in Arabi. Students entering first through fifth grades can participate during the first session from June 10-14 and the second session from June 17-21. Camp is from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Middle grade students,who are entering sixth through eighth grades, can participate June 24-28. Tuition is $150 per week, and cash or money order should be brought to the School Districts main office at 200 East St. Bernard Highway with a completed registration packet. Registration materials and more information can be found at www.sbpsb.org/summercamp or by calling 504-301-2000. President Donald Trump complains that large corporations such as Amazon are shirking their tax responsibilities. Yet for at least a decade, Trump paid none or very little in federal income taxes by exploiting some of the same generous tax breaks that the online retail giant and others have used to reduce their tax bills. Donald Trump and Amazon boss Jeff Bezos (with Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella in the centre): The US President has repeatedly lashed out at Amazon over its tax minimisation strategy. Credit:AP Trump's businesses generated huge losses, and his hotel and casino properties were eligible for large depreciation write-offs that meant he paid taxes for only two years between 1985 and 1994, according to tax records obtained by The New York Times. Trump, then a real estate developer, racked up $US1.17 billion ($1.67 billion) worth of losses in that time, according to the documents. NEW YORK, May 09, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Pomerantz LLP announces that a class action lawsuit has been filed on behalf of investors in United Microelectronics Corporation (UMC or the Company) (NYSE: UMC) against certain of the Companys current and former officers and directors. The class action, filed in United States District Court, Southern District of New York, and indexed under 19-cv-02304, is on behalf of a class consisting of all persons and entities, other than Defendants and their affiliates, who purchased or otherwise acquired publicly traded securities of UMC between October 28, 2015 and November 1, 2018, both dates inclusive (the Class Period), seeking to recover damages caused by Defendants violations of the federal securities laws and to pursue remedies under Sections 10(b) and 20(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the Exchange Act) and Rule 10b-5 promulgated thereunder, against the Company and certain of its senior officials. If you are a shareholder who purchased UMC securities during the class period, you have until May 13, 2019, to ask the Court to appoint you as Lead Plaintiff for the class. A copy of the Complaint can be obtained at www.pomerantzlaw.com. To discuss this action, contact Robert S. Willoughby at rswilloughby@pomlaw.com or 888.476.6529 (or 888.4-POMLAW), toll-free, Ext. 9980. Those who inquire by e-mail are encouraged to include their mailing address, telephone number, and the number of shares purchased. [Click here to join this class action] UMC purports to engage in the research, development, and manufacture of products in the solar energy and light-emitting diode industries. On May 13, 2016, the Company announced that it had entered into a Dynamic Random-Access Memory (DRAM) Technology Cooperation Agreement with Fujian Jianhua Integrated Circuit Co. Ltd. (Fujian). Under the agreement, Fujian was to provide UMC with related equipment for its research and development, as well as service fees subject to the progress of the technology development. UMC was to develop DRAM related technologies for Fujian and deliver such development results to Fujian before May 12, 2021. The developed technologies were to be jointly owned by both parties. DRAM is a memory device product used in electronics to store information. DRAM is a technologically advanced commodity that is widely used in digital electronics, as well as leading-edge computing, consumer, networking, automotive, industrial, embedded, and mobile productions. At all relevant times, one of UMCs primary competitors has been Micron Technology, Inc. (Micron), a leading U.S. semiconductor company known for its development and production of DRAM products. Throughout the Class Period, Defendants made materially false and misleading statements regarding UMCs business, operational and compliance policies. Specifically, Defendants made false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that: (i) UMC conspired with Fujian to steal trade secrets from Micron relating to its research and development of DRAM; (ii) UMC hired former Micron employees for the purpose of stealing such information from Micron; (iii) the foregoing conduct placed UMC and certain of its employees at an increased risk of criminal and regulatory investigation by the U.S. government; and (iv) as a result, UMCs public statements were materially false and misleading at all relevant times. On November 1, 2018, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) indicted UMC, Fujian, and Chen Zhengkun a.k.a. Stephen Chen (Chen), a former Micron employee hired by UMC, for conspiracy to commit economic espionage, conspiracy to commit theft of trade secrets, and economic espionage (receiving and possessing stolen trade secrets). The indictment stated that the companies conspired to steal trade secrets from Micron relating to its research and development of memory storage devices. According to the indictment, the conspiracy to commit economic espionage began in or around January 2016, the conspiracy to commit theft of trade secrets began in or about October 2015, and the economic espionage (receiving and possessing stolen trade secrets) began in or about February 2016. According to the DOJs indictment, Chen, a Taiwanese national, resigned as the President of Microns subsidiary, Micron Memory Taiwan Co., Ltd. (MMT), in July 2015. Thereafter, Chen began working for UMC as its Senior Vice President and Fabrication Director in Taiwan in September 2015. According to the indictment, Chen, as well as agents of UMC, later hired additional former employees of Micron who stole Micron trade secrets and, at the direction of UMC employees, used such trade secrets to enhance UMCs DRAM technologies. As news of UMCs indictment reached the market, UMCs ADS price fell by $0.19 per share, or nearly 10%, over the following two trading sessions to close at $1.71 per share on November 5, 2018. The Pomerantz Firm, with offices in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, and Paris, is acknowledged as one of the premier firms in the areas of corporate, securities, and antitrust class litigation. Founded by the late Abraham L. Pomerantz, known as the dean of the class action bar, the Pomerantz Firm pioneered the field of securities class actions. Today, more than 80 years later, the Pomerantz Firm continues in the tradition he established, fighting for the rights of the victims of securities fraud, breaches of fiduciary duty, and corporate misconduct. The Firm has recovered numerous multimillion-dollar damages awards on behalf of class members. See www.pomerantzlaw.com. CONTACT: Robert S. Willoughby Pomerantz LLP rswilloughby@pomlaw.com 888-476-6529 ext. 9980 Renewable energy company ESCO Pacific has received approvals from the New South Wales government to build a new solar farm and batteries that could provide green power to about 37,500 homes in the state. The $130 million, 100-megawatt solar farm and 25-megawatt battery will be built near West Wyalong in the New South Wales Riverina region. Australia is seeing a rise in the number of solar farms in rural and regional areas. ESCO Pacific said construction will begin towards the end of 2019, or by early 2020 at the latest. Comprising 350,000 solar panels up to four metres high, the solar farm is expected to operate for about 40 years. The government has also labelled the solar farm as a 'state significant development', as it generates electricity and has a capital investment of more than $30 million. The designation means it is approved by the NSW government, and not the local council. It's a family affair Some artists tour to support new albums, others pay tribute to vintage favourites; Deborah Conway and Willy Zygier are doing both. On the Melbourne pair's forthcoming national tour they will be highlighting their most recent album, February's intricate and involved The Words of Men, as well as giving a belated 25th anniversary shout-out to 1993's vital Bitch Epic, one of their initial collaborations as part of Conway's solo career. Musicians and partners Willie Zygier and Deborah Conway. It's been a particularly productive year for Conway, who recently fronted a reformation tour for her spiky 1980s band Do-Re-Mi, with this upcoming tour serving as a reminder of the rich body of work she's created with Zygier. To add to the summation, the couple's three daughters Syd, Hettie, and Alma Zygier will contribute to the gigs. See this family affair at Sydney Opera House on Friday June 7 and Saturday June 8, and Capital Theatre, Bendigo on Thursday 13th, Wangaratta Performing Arts Centre on Friday 14th, Horsham Town Hall on Saturday 15th, and Hamer Hall, Melbourne on Sunday June 16. For full details see deborahconway.com ALBUM OF THE WEEK A day after clashing with a Murdoch newspaper over its coverage of his statements about his late mother, Bill Shorten has said the Australian media market needs more competition. The Opposition Leader said elements of the Murdoch media were running a blatant political campaign against Labor: "Not everyone in News Corp is the same, but some days they should just put that they're a political party, they should put 'written and authorised' on their front page." Bill Shorten made headlines last year when he declined Rupert Murdoch's invitations to private meetings. Credit:EPA, Alex Ellinghausen The Labor leader also called for more tax transparency in the affairs of multinational corporations, including Murdoch's News Corporation: "More transparency about what these companies pay will wake people up," Mr Shorten told The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age in an interview on Thursday. His shadow assistant treasurer, Andrew Leigh, said on Wednesday: "I don't think it's any coincidence that when a party is taking to the election the most comprehensive set of policies on multinational tax reform that we find ourselves under fire from News. News [Corp] mastheads from 2013 to 2017 paid zero corporate tax." The Coalition solicited thousands of dollars in donations from a Chinese donor a month before laws banning foreign political donations came into effect, a year after they first introduced the legislation to Parliament. A Beijing and Sydney based business migration agent made two donations worth $30,000 in total under different names and three different addresses to the Queensland-based Liberal National Party, according to records held by the state and federal electoral commissions. Prime Minister Scott Morrison and Home Affairs Minister Peter Dutton of Queensland's LNP. The Coalition has been hunting for donations to fuel its campaigns in key electorates, including Dutton's. Credit:AAP The Coalition has been hunting for donations to fuel its election campaign, particularly in Queensland, where it faces losing seats to Labor in a series of election-turning contests, including those of Home Affairs Minister Peter Dutton in Dickson and George Christensen in Dawson. The election kitties of the Coalition and Labor have been sapped by laws passed by the Turnbull government banning foreign donations, amid rising concerns over political interference from business people with links to the Chinese Communist Party last year. Education Minister Dan Tehan has raised concerns about the English language skills of international students with the independent regulator of Australia's universities and asked for recommendations to strengthen admission standards. Amid heightened scrutiny of Australia's international education boom, Mr Tehan said he had received reports of students not having adequate language skills and sought information on any "systemic failure" in the sector's adherence to standards. Education Minister Dan Tehan has raised concerns about the English language standards of international students. Credit:Justin McManus "It has been raised with me that some international students studying in Australia may not have the appropriate English language skills to actively and appropriately participate in a higher education course of study," Mr Tehan wrote to Anthony McClaran, chief executive of the Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency (TEQSA). In the February letter, obtained by The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age, Mr Tehan sought advice on what the regulator was doing to enforce standards and noted Australia's requirements to ensure students were "equipped to succeed" and that "ill-prepared students are not knowingly admitted". Its just bonkers that Bill Shortens late mum might turn out to be a pivotal figure in this election campaign. Somehow, a political era characterised by some of the most significant ideological differences in decades has shrunk into a microscopic campaign. List the first things that come to mind from it, and you probably end up with a series of petty sensations: disendorsed candidates with lamentable social media histories, rude posters and dubious political ads about Tony Abbott, someone trying to egg the Prime Minister, and now The Daily Telegraphs appalling muck about Bill Shortens mum and his movingly teary response. I dont mean to belittle these things. For instance, I dont doubt the seriousness of what seems an attempted assault on the Prime Minister or the real pain Shorten felt this week. But they are not the grand stuff of politics. Even if you argue that the saga of Shortens mother stems from a serious political concern about how women have been systematically denied opportunities in life it has now become a story about media malpractice and Shortens sudden, humanising vulnerability. All this has almost nothing to do with soaring reforms or seismic policy questions. In normal times it would be the human colour of the campaign, not its essence. But perhaps the clue to understanding why this is so can be found in the very moment that came to define the week. As the backlash against The Daily Telegraph's reporting rose and Shortens human vulnerability became plain, Scott Morrison said something revealing: Bill lost his mother five years ago and I can understand that would have upset him a great deal. I would only extend my best wishes to him. This election is not about our families, its not about Bills mum, its not about my mum ... its about the choice between Bill Shorten and myself as prime minister. Younger Australians are getting a "dud deal" from a system that is stacked against them, Opposition Leader Bill Shorten has declared in a call for an election mandate for his sweeping plans to restore penalty rates, scale back tax breaks and take more action on climate change. Mr Shorten vowed to fix the inequities that punish the young if he takes power at the May 18 election, as he accused the Morrison government of presiding over a policy "wasteland" for the next generation. "People under 40 in this country are getting a dud deal from the government": Opposition Leader Bill Shorten. Credit:Alex Ellinghausen In an exclusive interview with The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age ahead of the release of Labor's policy costings on Friday morning, Mr Shorten said many older Australians also suffered from laws that were tilted against those who earned income compared to those with assets like property, citing negative gearing concessions. "People under 40 in this country are getting a dud deal from the government," he said. Much has been made of the Duchess of Sussex's decision to not be photographed mere hours after giving birth as per (rather barbaric) royal tradition. Instead, the mother of wee Master Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor made her first appearance two days after the arrival of her son (and also after husband Harry's adorably wonder-struck press conference as a new dad). The Duke and Duchess of Sussex and their newborn son. Credit:Pool Meghan, who surely would rather be wearing something elasticised, glowed in a chic tuxedo dress by British fashion designer Grace Wales Bonner. Wales Bonner is a designer who has been tipped as Britain's next big thing, and is perhaps one of the most interesting fashion designers working right now. LONDON, May 09, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Horizonte Minerals Plc. (the Company) (AIM: HZM; TSX: HZM) is pleased to announce the detailed voting results for the election of its Board of Directors, which took place at the Companys Annual General Meeting held on 9 May 2019 (the Meeting). The nominees listed in the management information circular dated 28 March 2019 were elected as directors of the Company at the Meeting. Detailed results of the vote are set out below: Nominee Votes For % Against % David Hall 483,226,476 94.72 26,959,800 5.28 Jeremy Martin 510,186,276 100.0 - - Owen Bavinton 493,226,476 96.68 16,959,800 3.32 William Fisher 493,226,476 96.68 16,959,800 3.32 Allan Walker 483,226,476 94.72 26,959,800 5.28 Alexander Christopher 500,186,276 98.04 10,000,000 1.96 In addition all other resolutions proposed at its Annual General Meeting held earlier today were duly passed. For further information visit www.horizonteminerals.com or contact: Horizonte Minerals plc Jeremy Martin (CEO) +44 (0) 203 356 2901 Numis Securities Ltd (NOMAD & Joint Broker) John Prior Paul Gillam +44 (0) 207 260 1000 Shard Capital (Joint Broker) Damon Heath Erik Woolgar +44 (0) 207 186 9952 Tavistock (Financial PR) Gareth Tredway Annabel de Morgan +44 (0) 207 920 3150 About Horizonte Minerals: Horizonte Minerals plc is an AIM and TSX-listed nickel development company focused in Brazil. The Company is developing the Araguaia project, as the next major ferronickel mine in Brazil, and the Vermelho nickel-cobalt project, with the aim of being able to supply nickel and cobalt to the EV battery market. Both projects are 100% owned. CAUTIONARY STATEMENT REGARDING FORWARD LOOKING INFORMATION Except for statements of historical fact relating to the Company, certain information contained in this press release constitutes "forward-looking information" under Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking information includes, but is not limited to, the ability of the Company to complete the Acquisition as described herein, statements with respect to the potential of the Company's current or future property mineral projects; the success of exploration and mining activities; cost and timing of future exploration, production and development; the estimation of mineral resources and reserves and the ability of the Company to achieve its goals in respect of growing its mineral resources; the ability of the Company to complete the Placing as described herein, and the realization of mineral resource and reserve estimates. Generally, forward-looking information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "plans", "expects" or "does not expect", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", or "believes", or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will be taken", "occur" or "be achieved". Forward-looking information is based on the reasonable assumptions, estimates, analysis and opinions of management made in light of its experience and its perception of trends, current conditions and expected developments, as well as other factors that management believes to be relevant and reasonable in the circumstances at the date that such statements are made, and are inherently subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information, including but not limited to risks related to: the inability of the Company to complete the Acquisition as described herein, exploration and mining risks, competition from competitors with greater capital; the Company's lack of experience with respect to development-stage mining operations; fluctuations in metal prices; uninsured risks; environmental and other regulatory requirements; exploration, mining and other licences; the Company's future payment obligations; potential disputes with respect to the Company's title to, and the area of, its mining concessions; the Company's dependence on its ability to obtain sufficient financing in the future; the Company's dependence on its relationships with third parties; the Company's joint ventures; the potential of currency fluctuations and political or economic instability in countries in which the Company operates; currency exchange fluctuations; the Company's ability to manage its growth effectively; the trading market for the ordinary shares of the Company; uncertainty with respect to the Company's plans to continue to develop its operations and new projects; the Company's dependence on key personnel; possible conflicts of interest of directors and officers of the Company, the inability of the Company to complete the Placing on the terms as described herein, and various risks associated with the legal and regulatory framework within which the Company operates. Although management of the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Night-time in the nursery is not the place of soft quiet I imagined it would be. It is a surreal place where countless reflective, glitter-inflected eyes watch as you fall in and out of another human beings first reported experiences of the subconscious realm. In these time-resistant hours, I recognise myself too keenly in Del Kathryn Bartons pale, long-limbed figures, witnessing the translucency of my own mind and body rendered nearly borderless, worn thin and mutable through the forces of expectations and sleep deprivation. When my daughter was in utero, I was an impervious, unrelenting galaxy for this firstborn wonder of mine, but now I see myself reduced from that tranquil impartiality into a worldly creature: a shamanistic figure, powerful and terrible, multi-eyed and sharp-toothed as any of Bartons creations, as I try to insist on a path back from nonsensical night terrors to the world displayed in picture books around the room. The colours are Bartons colours not unreal, just unfiltered, like my daughters dreams, where taxonomic rules are suspended. The colours of bruised berry juices, butterfly wings, snakeskin and lorikeets fall preternaturally together. Look here little one, I soothe: ladybeetles and kingfishers, pussycats, too. But Barton knows what I do: these are beautiful predators, the monsters of their realms. They are designed to bite, to fight, to die and rot back into the rich humus of her canvases, where they exist next to vines pushing up past the sexual opulence of tropical flowers, and the staring eyes of dear, too-knowing little primates like the one I birthed. After the embarrassing admission during an interview that he was a long-standing member of the exclusive Savage Club, prominent Greens Kooyong hopeful Julian Burnside has managed to extricate himself from the all-male institution. With fewer than 10 days to go until polling day, the club has finalised the human rights lawyer's resignation from the institution he's been part of for more than 40 years. Sources inside the gentlemens den say the clubs general committee ratified the departure last week, after a glacial decision-making process which required it be considered by assorted committees. Burnside has emerged throughout the campaign as a particularly high profile, and well supported, thorn in the side to Kooyong MP and top ranked Victorian Liberal Josh Frydenberg. Former Labor immigration minister Nick Bolkus is involved in a lobbying effort by Chinese mining interests to access a secretive Defence Department site where Australia and its allies conduct highly-sensitive military research. Corporate documents show Mr Bolkus, who served as immigration minister in Paul Keatings government between 1993 and 1996, became a director of the Australian arm of Chinese steelmaker JiuJiang in March last year. Nick Bolkus as an ALP senator. Credit:Andrew Meares Mr Bolkus' role as a director of JiuJiang Mining Australia reflects a now-common approach by Chinese companies of bringing well-connected former politicians on board to help build relationships with federal and state governments in Australia. An example of this includes former Liberal trade minister Andrew Robb almost immediately joining the Chinese-owned leaseholder for the Darwin Port, Landbridge, on a $880,000-a-year consultancy upon leaving Parliament in 2016. Two of the four men who plotted Christmas bombings at Melbourne landmarks firebombed a suburban mosque in the name of Islamic State earlier that month. Abdullah Chaarani and Ahmed Mohamed planned to inflict mass carnage through bomb and knife attacks at Federation Square, Flinders Street Station, St Paul's Cathedral and the Young & Jackson hotel around Christmas 2016, along with brothers Ibrahim and Hamza Abbas. On Thursday, a Supreme Court jury found Chaarani, 28, and Mohamed, 26, guilty of torching the Imam Ali Islamic Centre in Fawkner on December 11, 2016, a crime they carried out while planning for what they hoped would be one of the most deadly homegrown terror attacks on Australian shores. Another man, Hatim Moukhaiber, 30, was also found guilty of engaging in a terrorist act after he was caught on CCTV footage at the mosque with Mohamed and Chaarani. A Melbourne cafe has been ordered to pay an Instagram influencer more than $1600 after a verbal contract between the parties turned sour. Chloe Roberts won her legal stoush with east Melbourne cafe, Legacy, after the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal took her side in a dispute between the parties over "prematurely" deleted posts. Instagram influencer Chloe Roberts. The tribunal this week likened Ms Roberts' advertising service to that of a billboard, and accepted her argument that she was entitled to be paid for posts she later hid. Ms Roberts is a gym and fitness "ambassador" whose revealing Instagram account which largely shows her in bikinis, g-strings or tights attracts thousands of likes. She is often pictured with food, working out or at the beach and can now demand $1200 a post from clients. Find a table inside the pub and take care driving home - the rain is coming back for knock-off time. The worst of the storms that have lashed parts of Melbourne have weakened and moved north, but another band is making its way to the city from the Mornington Peninsula and should arrive around 4.30pm. Pedestrians bust out the brollies as heavy rain hits Melbourne on Friday afternoon. Credit:Eddie Jim Bureau of Meteorology senior forecaster Keris Arndt said the approaching system was weaker than the last and would dump only a few millimetres across the city and suburbs, but it was enough to "dampen the commute and Friday pub time". After this next burst, Melbourne is expected to mostly fine throughout the evening and tomorrow. Murdoch University has sent an email to students saying it is proud to be a global university and refuting the claims made by ABC's Four Corners earlier this week Students voiced their concerns about the report, which claimed Murdoch University may have circumvented admission requirements in order to attract more international students. Murdoch University. Four Corners reported Murdochs Perth campus had seen a 92 per cent jump in international students between 2017 and 2018, and staff had raised concerns in internal emails about declining English literacy and increasing cases of academic misconduct. Students who spoke to WAtoday said they believed their degree could be worthless following the revelations, and they would have chosen their university differently if they were aware of the practice. A man in his 40s has died after an incident at a work site in Bassendean on Thursday morning. The worker was taken by ambulance to Royal Perth Hospital with critical injuries just before 8am, but died a short time later. It is understood he was crushed by machinery at the site. Police were called to the Alice Street company and will prepare a report for the coroner, while Worksafe is investigating the incident. COLUMBIA, Md., May 09, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- W. R. Grace & Co. (NYSE: GRA) today announced that Hudson La Force, President and Chief Executive Officer, Bill Dockman, Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, and Jeremy Rohen, Vice President, Investor Relations and Corporate Development will attend the Goldman Sachs Industrials & Materials Conference 2019 in New York on Thursday, May 16, 2019. The Investor Presentation related to this conference can be accessed at http://investor.grace.com on the day of the conference. About Grace Built on talent, technology, and trust, Grace is a leading global supplier of catalysts and engineered materials. The companys two industry-leading business segmentsCatalysts Technologies and Materials Technologiesprovide innovative products, technologies, and services that enhance the products and processes of our customers around the world. With approximately 3,900 employees, Grace operates and/or sells to customers in over 70 countries. More information about Grace is available at grace.com. In Hobart, on a Saturday morning, Hewson ignored the anxious advice of his own security police and waded into the crowded Salamanca Place market. A lot of storeholders who werent awfully impressed with the concept of paying a 15 per cent GST, plus a lot more wild-eyed market-goers down from the hills for their fresh vegetables and a pack of possum meat (seriously) began to get restive about a politician interrupting their morning. Suddenly, a fusillade of tomatoes and potatoes was launched. Hewsons police used us journalists as a human shield for the Opposition leader, which means we copped quite a few direct hits. A hurled potato, it turns out, feels as solid as a hammer, even without GST. Security struggle to keep a protester from accosting John Hewson during his visit to Hobart's Salamanca Market on February 21, 1993. Credit:Mike Bowers As we shuffled en masse away from the potatoe-ing, a mob of inventive demonstrators produced a long rope and proceeded to wind it around our feet. The idea was to topple us into a kickable heap. Somehow, we avoided this slapstick fate and police shepherded us to a nearby dock, where we escaped aboard a boat. Hewson seemed energised. In the last week of the campaign, eggs began flying when Hewson addressed a large and rowdy rally in Brisbane. He reached up and caught one. It didnt even break, he crowed, and let it be known he thought it was an omen: hed win the election. The perils of leadership. Credit:Matt Golding To everyones surprise, Keating - his government bowed beneath an unemployment rate of more than 11 per cent - beat the Amphetamine Man. He, too, had copped an egging. Keatings one unconcerned recorded comment, to a radio interviewer, was it missed, anyway. John Howard laughed it off when he had shoes thrown at him on the set of ABCs Q&A (like his friend George W. Bush in Iraq). Julia Gillard had just about everything thrown at her, and shrugged it all away. A student frisbeed a Vegemite sandwich at Gillard when she visited Marsden State High School, south of Brisbane, and at Lyneham High School in Canberra she was the target of a salami sandwich. A salami sandwich at the feet of Prime Minister Julia Gillard at a school visit in Canberra in May 2013. Credit:Andrew Meares They must have thought I was hungry, she quipped. A man also threw an egg at Gillard in Perth. It hit a nearby policewoman. Gillard made a joke about scrambled eggs for breakfast and apologised to the policewoman for copping what was meant for a prime minister. Perhaps she knew her history of prime ministerial egging, and how a self-deprecating joke was the preferred reaction. Loading As I have chronicled elsewhere, PM Billy Hughes had his hat knocked off by an egg at Warwick railway station in 1917. He went for the pistol he customarily wore beneath his jacket, but hed left it in his railway carriage. A Queensland policeman, unimpressed, refused his demand to arrest the egg throwers, causing the outraged Hughes to order the formation of what became the Australian Federal Police. Much of Australia guffawed. All these years later, Prime Minister Scott Morrison found himself assailed with an egg at a Country Womens Association event. The CWA women were rightly furious about the affair because it detracted from their campaign to persuade the government to increase the pitiful Newstart payment at a time when drought is consigning many country people to poverty. There was much hand-wringing from those with short memories about the frightful lack of respect shown by the alleged assailant to the prime minister. Amber Holt (right, in beanie) throws an egg at Scott Morrison at a CWA event in Albury. Credit:Nine AUTO LAB RADIO LIVE FROM NYC, Saturday May 11, 2019; WNYM Radio AM 970 7-9 AM Auto Lab Talk Radio on New York City's WNYM Radio AM 970 Is Streamed Worldwide On TheAutoChannel.Com Car Question or Concern? Automotive Career Opportunity, Call Toll Free 888-692-7234 To Speak With An Auto Lab Expert Auto Lab is also about the automotive industry, its history, and its culture, presenting the ideas and advice of leading college faculty, authors, and automotive practitioners in a relaxed, conversational interactive format. Listeners can find audio recordings of the past 20 years of archived Auto Lab shows as simulcast on The Auto Channel; The Auto Lab Index Page includes; Audio-on-Demand Archives, Community College Auto Program Database, Guests Pictures This Weeks Show: May 11, 2019 In Studio Expert Automotive Panel Harold Bendell - Major Auto Ivan Anderson- Brookdale Community College David Goldsmith-Urban Classics Joseph Guarino- Joe Guarino's Auto Repairs Jerry Pastore- D & J Diagnostics Johanna Pastore- D & J Diagnostics Joanne Porcelli, Esq. Michael Porcelli - Bronx Community College, City University of New York Nicholas Prague - MTA Interviews Robert Erskine, Senior European Correspondent & BBC "PECKISH? SNACK ON YOUR SEAT!" John Russell, Sharon Sudol, Senior Correspondents "2019 KIA K900" Russ Rader, Senior Vice President Insurance Institute for Highway Safety "BMW 3 SERIES" Robert Sinclair AAA Northeast "GREEN CAR GUIDE" Jerry M. Hultin- President , Chairman & C0-Founder of the Global Futures Group: Smart Cities New York "THE FUTURE OF URBAN TRANSPORTATION" NEW YORK, May 09, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Pomerantz LLP announces that a class action lawsuit has been filed against Boston Scientific Corporation (Boston Scientific or the Company) (NYSE: BSX) and certain of its officers. The class action, filed in United States District Court, for the Southern District of New York, and indexed under 19-cv-03642, is on behalf of a class consisting of all persons and entities who purchased or otherwise acquired Boston Scientific securities between February 26, 2015, and April 16, 2019, both dates inclusive (the Class Period), seeking to recover damages caused by Defendants violations of the federal securities laws and to pursue remedies under Sections 10(b) and 20(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the Exchange Act) and Rule 10b-5 promulgated thereunder, against the Company and certain of its top officials. If you are a shareholder who purchased Boston Scientific securities during the class period, you have until June 24, 2019, to ask the Court to appoint you as Lead Plaintiff for the class. A copy of the Complaint can be obtained at www.pomerantzlaw.com . To discuss this action, contact Robert S. Willoughby at rswilloughby@pomlaw.com or 888.476.6529 (or 888.4-POMLAW), toll-free, Ext. 9980. Those who inquire by e-mail are encouraged to include their mailing address, telephone number, and the number of shares purchased. [Click here to join this class action] Boston Scientific was founded in 1979 and is headquartered in Marlborough, Massachusetts. The Company develops, manufactures, and markets medical devices for use in various interventional medical specialties worldwide. Within the Companys Urology and Womens Health business segment it develops, manufactures and sells devices to treat various urological and gynecological disorders, including transvaginal surgical mesh products indicated for POP. At the beginning of the Class Period, the Company reported worldwide net sales of Urology and Women's health products of $535 million for the year ended December 31, 2014, equal to approximately seven percent of its consolidated net sales for that year. In July 2011, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) released a Public Health Notice update regarding complications related to the use of Urogynecologic Surgical Mesh for pelvic organ prolapse and stress urinary incontinence. By February 24, 2015, over 25,000 product liability cases or claims related to transvaginal surgical mesh had been filed against Boston Scientific, as well as cases in the United Kingdom. Nevertheless, Boston Scientific continued to deny these allegations concerning its products. On February 24, 2016, in its annual report for fiscal year 2015, Boston Scientific disclosed that a putative class action had been filed against it alleging, inter alia, that the Company had used counterfeit or adulterated resin products imported from China in their vaginal mesh implants, resulting in personal injury. The Company also disclosed that Boston Scientific was in contact with the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Southern District of West Virginia regarding its alleged use of counterfeit imports from China. On May 13, 2018, CBSs 60 Minutes aired a story highlighting the Companys alleged use of counterfeit imports in its surgical mesh products. In response, Boston Scientific stated that it has extensively tested the [plastic] resin to confirm its composition, safety, and performance. The complaint alleges that throughout the Class Period, Defendants made materially false and misleading statements regarding the Companys business, operational and compliance policies. Specifically, Defendants made false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that: (i) Boston Scientifics surgical mesh products indicated for the transvaginal repair of POP were unsafe; (ii) accordingly, Boston Scientifics continued marketing and sales of these devices in the United States was unlikely to be sustainable; (iii) separately, the Company had sold vaginal mesh implants containing counterfeit or adulterated resin products imported from China; (iv) the foregoing conduct subjected the Company to a heightened risk of regulatory scrutiny and/or government investigations; and (v) as a result, the Companys public statements were materially false and misleading at all relevant times. Finally, despite years of denials by Boston Scientific in response to questions concerning the safety of its vaginal mesh products, the apparent full extent of the Companys misstatements was revealed on April 16, 2019, when the FDA announced that it had ordered the manufacturers of all remaining surgical mesh products indicated for the transvaginal repair of pelvic organ prolapse . . . to stop selling and distributing their products in the U.S. immediately. The FDA stated that the manufacturers, Boston Scientific and Coloplast, have not demonstrated a reasonable assurance of safety and effectiveness for these devices, as required to continue marketing the devices in the United States. According to Jeffrey Shuren M.D., director of the FDAs Center for Devices and Radiological Health: In order for these mesh devices to stay on the market, we determined that we needed evidence that they worked better than surgery without the use of mesh to repair POP. That evidence was lacking in these premarket applications, and we couldnt assure women that these devices were safe and effective long term[.] On this news, Boston Scientifics stock price fell $2.90 per share, or 7.67%, over the following two trading sessions, closing at $34.91 per share on April 17, 2019. The Pomerantz Firm, with offices in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, and Paris, is acknowledged as one of the premier firms in the areas of corporate, securities, and antitrust class litigation. Founded by the late Abraham L. Pomerantz, known as the dean of the class action bar, the Pomerantz Firm pioneered the field of securities class actions. Today, more than 80 years later, the Pomerantz Firm continues in the tradition he established, fighting for the rights of the victims of securities fraud, breaches of fiduciary duty, and corporate misconduct. The Firm has recovered numerous multimillion-dollar damages awards on behalf of class members. See www.pomerantzlaw.com . CONTACT: Robert S. Willoughby Pomerantz LLP rswilloughby@pomlaw.com HERNDON, Va., May 09, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Unissant was awarded a 5-year Defense Health Agency (DHA) Pharmacy Operations Support Contract (POSC) as a follow-on to the previous Pharmacy Analytics Support Services (PASS). This contract supports the Defense Health Agency (DHA) Pharmacy Operations Division (POD) consolidation effort. Unissant has been directly supporting the POD for nearly five years and has enhanced our partnership with industry leading companies to address healthcare costs and support warfighters diagnosed with PTSD and opioid dependency. PASS has developed effective tools to track and monitor prescriptions and drug treatments to ensure providers optimize treatment and patient safety. Unissant also supports management of the pharmacy benefit functions including claims adjudication, reconciliations, administering the retail pharmacy network, and operating the Mail Order Pharmacy (MOP) as well as works with DHA stakeholders on health policy, outcomes, economic evaluations and federal ceiling prices. A new addition to the program is Cyber Security tasks for advancing security and security posture of enterprise pharmacy information technology programs. The PASS program has been at the forefront of innovation for some time. It received the 2018 FedHealthIT Innovation award, said Kenneth Bonner, Unissant president. Were very honored with being awarded this recompete and expanding our support of the POD while continuing to innovate and support the important mission that the DHA POD provides to the entire Military Health System (MHS). About Unissant Inc. Unissant is an advanced data analytics and business transformation services provider with expertise in healthcare and health IT, finance, national security, and energy. The company delivers innovative solutions to assist government agencies and private sector businesses in tackling their biggest challenges. Founded in 2006, Unissant is a prime contractor on various government vehicles such as CIO-SP3, GSA PSS, GSA HealthIT SIN, and GSA 8(a) STARS II and is a CMMI Level 3, ISO 9001 & 27001 certified company headquartered in Herndon, Virginia with a satellite office in San Antonio, Texas. In March 2017, Unissant received the Government Project of the Year award by Small and Emerging Contractors Advisory Forum (SECAF). Contact: John Meagher jmeagher@unissant.com 1 703-889-8500 135 I had a professor at NC State, and the class was called middle school education she did a great job of kind of detailing this age and how passionate they are about helping the world and changing the world, Bankston said. Theyre just a lot of fun to hang out with, but then theyre also feeling out their adult roots. Its a really interesting age, and its a great age to be an educator for them, because you kind of get them at that sweet spot. Middle school science reinforces topics that students already have learned, Bankston said, with a focus on physics and earth science. Its also their introduction to chemistry, which is Bankstons favorite topic to teach. Its brand new for them, and like learning a new language, he said. Theyve seen a [periodic] table before and never knew anything about it. My hope is through the time of the course they learn to read it. Alisa Hamilton, who teaches next door to Bankston, said he has an ability to make his students feel comfortable by getting to know them and putting them at ease. Hes a phenomenal educator, Hamilton said. Hes got a very creative mind, and I think the kids really respond to that as well. Samuel Cortina, a community engagement specialist with the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services out of Round Rock, also joined the event for the first time this year, speaking to visitors about safety. Cortina said he considers it important to let senior citizens know what their options are to defend themselves from abuse, neglect and exploitation. In 2018, statistics showed Adult Protective Services took 16,850 calls across Texas. The No. 1 concern reported is self-neglect, a situation in which an individual cant take care of themselves. Cortina said DFPS deals specifically with elderly victims hurt by a person they know, such as a family member. Elderly victims do realize theyre being abused in many cases, he said, but they are embarrassed to report and want to protect their loved ones. Cortina was approached at the Senior Expo by many, and he talked to some individuals who, based on their stories shared, could be victims needing help, he said. Most folks came to talk to me and said their brother or granddaughter, etc., was doing this or that, he said. Maybe there was some suspicious activity on their bank account and they were not sure. Garrett said the Barnetts are thankful to be alive and are touched by the love shown to them by their neighbors in Elliot and Franklin, many of whom the Barnett family helped with recovery efforts after the Franklin tornado. Today there were cars lining our driveway with people wanting to help us, Garrett Barnett said Wednesday evening. They were joking with us and saying, Hey, we didnt think wed be repaying the favor so soon! According to Robertson County Emergency Management Coordinator Billy Huggins, as of late Wednesday afternoon, National Weather Service staff were still working in the field trying to determine whether the winds that caused damage in Elliot were the result of a tornado or were strong straight-line winds. He did report that at least one home and one barn in the area had lost roofs, and several trees were uprooted, affecting road passage and power lines. A well house was also blown apart, he said. 10-Year-Old Girl With Special Needs Bitten by Another Student on School Bus Warning: A photo in this article might be disturbing to some readers. A 10-year-old girl with special needs was allegedly bitten on her arm by another student in Green Bay, Wisconsin, this week, it was reported. WBAY reported that her parents are speaking out about the incident after they found bruising on her arm. The alleged bite attack occurred on a school bus. Lillian Waldron, 10, goes to Langlade Elementary School, and her mother describes her as developmentally delayed, saying she cant speak and has the mannerisms of a 2-year-old child. When Lillian got off the bus, her mother, Lynn, said she was crying and inconsolable. Her mother gave her a bath. She loves baths and thats soothing to her, so I brought her home, and I was getting her ready for the bath and I took her sweatshirt off and thats when I noticed the major bruising on her upper arm, explained Lynn Waldron-Moehle told the news outlet. A photo of the bite marks was sent by her parents to local news outlets, showing the girl crying with red welts on her arm. Her father, Chad Waldron, said Lillian takes an all-special needs bus. The seat was right behind the bus driver and he couldnt hear anything going on or see anything? Come on, he said. She cant tell them to stop, she couldnt get away, because shes in a five-point harness car seat. She just had to sit there and take it and the bus driver wasnt stopping, said Lynn. The school principal then viewed the footage. According to her mother, the principal said it was was gruesome and horrifying to look at, and that the girl was brutally biting my daughters arm. As a result, Superintendent Michelle Langenfeld stated that administrators and myself immediately reached out to the family and met with them to address their concerns and provide support to ensure the physical and emotional well-being of our student. Newsweek reported that the child responsible for the biting is no longer attending the school. The Waldrons are now seeking a legal avenue over the incident. The girls father noted that the incident could have been avoided. If you cant keep an eye on these kids and they are special needs, then you need to bring somebody in you know to be watching if the bus driver cant do it, Chad said, Fox59 reported. Other details about the incident are not clear. Boy Thrown from Bus About a week ago, in Maryland, a father was forced to take action after his daughter was thrown out of a moving school bus by another student. Brian Kight told WBFF that he has quit his job and is planning to pack up and take his six children to West Virginia in hopes to provide them with a better school environment. PROJECT BALTIMORE | A 6-year-old Baltimore County student says he was thrown out of a moving school bus. Now, the family is now taking extreme steps to stop the bullying. MORE: https://t.co/MrxeeXxHqE FOX Baltimore (@FOXBaltimore) April 30, 2019 I just wish this wouldve never happened. It has turned our world upside down, Kight told the news station. Jacion told WBFF that an older student, who had been bullying him, made him go to the back of the bus. There, the older student pushed the emergency button to open the window, and threw Jacion out the window. The 6-year-old landed on his head and was knocked unconscious. Kight said when he learned about the incident he was scared to death. I show up, and hes already in the back of the ambulance, the father said. Epoch Times reporter Janita Kan contributed to this report. InfoWars founder Alex Jones takes photos at a hearing to examine foreign influence operations' use of social media platforms before the Intelligence Committee at the Capitol in Washington on Sept. 5, 2018. (Samira Bouaou/The Epoch Times) Access to Social Media Is a Right That Should Be Defended Commentary On May 2, Facebook and its subsidiary Instagram announced that it was permanently banning the accounts of several people, which it termed dangerous individuals. Those people included Paul Joseph Watson, Alex Jones, Paul Nehlen, Laura Loomer, Milo Yiannopoulos, and extreme leftist radical Louis Farrakhan. This purge is simply the latest in a long string of account deletions by unaccountable, unelected big tech companies that police the internet, giving themselves the ability to act as social medias judge, jury, and executionerall while ignoring the First Amendment rights of the users of their platforms. Whats consistent is that the majority of deleted accounts belong to political conservatives. The inclusion of Farrakhan in this batch of account purges seems like a hollow attempt to show Facebooks actions as politically unbiased. In a previous column, I highlighted the dark, dystopian future that is emerging, as tech giants are able to blacklist or memory-hole anyone they dont like, without any accountability or oversight. The latest actions by Facebook show that such actions will continue unabated, unless action is taken against tech companies. Our free speech rights are not less important than our civil rights, Dinesh DSouza wrote in a tweet on May 5, echoing statements he made on Fox News. Digital companies should not be allowed to discriminate based on political ideology. Our free speech rights are not less important than our civil rights. Digital companies should not be allowed to discriminate based on political ideology.@IngrahamAngle @RealJamesWoods pic.twitter.com/0wCe0mMt67 Dinesh D'Souza (@DineshDSouza) May 5, 2019 But tech companies such as Facebook claim they have the right to ban anyone who engages in what they alone deem offensive speechthey consider it a violation of their terms of service. They often defend their draconian policies by citing hate speech as a reason to deplatform their users. And while this policy is what Silicon Valley companies hide behind to ban ideological opponents, there are at least two U.S. Supreme Court judges who disagree and have given opinions in rulings, which could complicate matters in a potential legal challenge. In 2017, Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito clarified his legal understanding of the issue of hate speech, writing: Speech that demeans on the basis of race, ethnicity, gender, religion, age, disability, or any other similar ground is hateful; but the proudest boast of our free speech jurisprudence is that we protect the freedom to express the thought that we hate. Alito, who understands more about U.S. law and the Constitution than nearly anyone in the country, stated clearly that what some call hate speech is actually constitutionally protected speech. His comments are a clear rebuke of anyoneeven social media and digital companieswho trample on the First Amendment rights of Americans. Preventing others from exercising their right to free speecheven speech that you despisemakes you the enemy of freedom, not its defender. Supreme Court Justice Anthony Kennedy wrote in an opinion that he believes the internet to be the modern public square and that denying access to it is a violation of the First Amendment. This complicates arguments for those (even some conservatives) who say that private technology companies reserve the right to ban people with whom they disagree and police speech as they see fit. In the East, we see the rise of those capable of controlling everyones behavior, and in the West, weve seen the rise of an uncontrolled, spontaneous empire, said Donald Tusk, president of the EU. Our children are dependent on the internet and every day will become more dependent on it. Years ago, no one could have predicted the internet would become what it is today. And the internet is now an indispensable part of modern life. Social media is a critical component to modern communication and the dissemination of ideas, political or otherwise. Like the old town square, digital platforms are now where people gather to speak to each other. Our right to free speech doesnt end just because the technology used to communicate has evolved. A defense of free speech is not a defense of the content of what people say, just as a defense of democracy is not a defense of how people actually vote, DSouza said in a reply to CNN anchor Brian Stelter. We have a right to speak just as we have a right to participate in our government. Adrian Norman is a writer and political commentator. Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times. Miami, FL, May 09, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- In 2020, Crystal will celebrate its 30th anniversary with a year-long celebration including commemorative gifts and special events aboard its ships as well as the gift of savings. Crystal Cruises, which first launched on July 24, 1990 when Crystal Harmony sailed from San Francisco on a 12-day inaugural voyage to Alaska, pioneered the luxury cruising industry and set the stage for three decades of award-winning vacation experiences. Crystal has designated 30 sailings spanning its four brand experiences Crystal Cruises, Crystal River Cruises, Crystal Yacht Cruises and Crystal Expedition Cruises for special 30th Anniversary savings in 2020. Crystal Society members will receive double their regular savings, now totaling five percent, while new-to-Crystal guests will enjoy two percent savings on the select voyages. These savings are in addition to two-for-one fares and Crystals compelling Book Now Savings, which rewards travelers who book early with up to $5,000 per suite. To take advantage of these special offers, bookings for the 30th Anniversary Collection must be made by June 30, 2019. We are immensely proud of Crystals legacy of offering luxury travelers the very best experiences in the world for 30 years, and are grateful to the world travelers who have journeyed with us and the travel advisors who have been integral to our success along the way, said Crystals president and CEO, Tom Wolber. While many of our guests have been on this journey with Crystal since the beginning, the Crystal Family continues to grow with each new voyage. Its our pleasure to celebrate this milestone with travelers in a meaningful way with great value and the opportunity to experience all the diverse travel experiences Crystal now offers. The 30th Anniversary Collection features sailings around the globe ranging from seven to 16 nights throughout 2020, including: Crystal Cruises, 20 voyages : Mexican Riviera, Asia, Mediterranean, Northern Europe, New England & Canada, Middle East & India, and the Caribbean; : Mexican Riviera, Asia, Mediterranean, Northern Europe, New England & Canada, Middle East & India, and the Caribbean; Crystal River Cruises, 5 voyages: Rhine and Danube rivers; Rhine and Danube rivers; Crystal Yacht Cruises, 4 voyages: Seychelles, Adriatic, Mediterranean and Arabian Peninsula; Seychelles, Adriatic, Mediterranean and Arabian Peninsula; Crystal Expedition Cruises, 1 voyage: South Pacific. All guests booked on the selected sailings will enjoy special events celebrating this milestone and receive gifts including Crystals 30th Anniversary Cookbook featuring specialties from Crystals globally-inspired menus; a commemorative 30th Anniversary pin; a wine stopper; and personalized luggage tags as part of the festivities. About Crystal Only the world-renowned Crystal Experience offers an unwavering, unparalleled standard of excellence and luxury across four distinct cruising options: Crystal Cruises, the Worlds Most Awarded Luxury Cruise Line; Crystal River Cruises, the Worlds Most Luxurious River Cruise Line; Crystal Yacht Cruises, offering boutique luxury and bold adventure in the worlds most elite harbors; and Crystal Expedition Cruises, taking Crystals acclaimed elegance to the farthest reaches of the world. Crystal has been recognized with top honors in the Conde Nast Traveler Readers Choice Awards for a record 25 years; voted Worlds Best by the readers of Travel + Leisure for 20 years; and won the Best Luxury Cruise Line by Virtuoso for four years (2014, 2015, 2016 & 2018). Crystal is proud to be a platinum partner of the advisors of ASTA. For more information and Crystal reservations, contact a travel advisor, call 888.799.2437, or visit www.crystalcruises.com. Join the hundreds of thousands who subscribe to the Crystal Insider blog, follow Crystal Cruises Facebook page and @crystalcruises on Twitter and Instagram, and engage in the conversation with #crystalcruises and #WhereLuxuryisPersonal. ### Attachment Indians hold placards with a photograph of Pakistan-based terrorist Masood Azhar, in support of a recent decision by the United Nation to blacklist Azhar, in Ahmedabad on May 2, 2019. (Sam Panthaky/AFP/Getty Images) China Seeks Thank-You Favor From India for Support of UN Blacklisting of Pakistani Terrorist Chinas recent decision to vote for a United Nations blacklisting of the head of a known Pakistani terrorist group was only made with the goal of persuading India to embrace Beijings One Belt, One Road foreign investment policy, according to a recent Indian media report. Beijings sudden change in position on May 1, after roughly 10 years of objection, was surprising since China is Pakistans closest ally and often sides with the Southeast Asian country in international affairs. Beijing established its One Belt, One Road initiative (OBOR, also known as Belt and Road) in 2013 to build up geopolitical influence via investments across Southeast Asia, Africa, Europe, and Latin America. Beijing wants India to embrace the idea of joining the Bangladesh-China-India-Myanmar (BCIM) corridor, an OBOR project, in exchange for China showing its support at the U.N. in early May for blacklisting Pakistani terrorist Masood Azhar, according to a May 6 article by Indian news site The Print, citing unnamed diplomatic sources. Azhar is the head and founder of the Pakistan-based terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), which seeks to bring the India-controlled region of Kashmir under the control of Pakistan. Most recently, JeM claimed responsibility for a suicide car bombing in India-controlled Kashmir on Feb. 14, which resulted in the deaths of at least 40 Indian paramilitary police officers. Following the deadly attack, the United States, Britain, and France made a request before the U.N. Security Council to blacklist Azhar. JeM was already blacklisted by the U.N. Security Council in 2001. UN Blacklist In mid-March, China blocked the blacklisting by being the only country out of 15 members to vote against it, according to Indias English-language daily newspaper The Economic Times. But this wasnt the first time Beijing has blocked the committee from sanctioning Azhar. Beijing blocked previous attempts in 2009, 2016, and 2017. But on May 1, China changed its mind and voted to blacklist Azhar, according to Reuters. The move subjects Azhar to an arms embargo, travel ban, and asset freeze. A 2017 terrorism report by the U.S. Department of State called out both the Pakistani government and JeM. The [Pakistani] government failed to significantly limit JeM from openly raising money, recruiting, and training in Pakistan, the report stated. The Print, citing anonymous sources, reported that Beijing has intensified its lobbying in the matter of India accepting the BCIM project since it made the U.N. decision, hoping that New Delhi could agree to it before Chinese leader Xi Jinping is scheduled to visit for a summit at the capital in July or August. BCIM India hasnt joined Chinas OBOR, and boycotted both the 2017 and 2019 Belt and Road forum in Beijing. One of the reasons is that another OBOR corridor, the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, runs through a part of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, which New Delhi considers its territory. However, India has shown interest in BCIM. According to Indian media reports, following an informal summit in China between Xi and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in April 2018, the two countries agreed to move forward with BCIM. However, the project hasnt broken ground yet. According to Chinas state-run media, the BCIM will include a 2,800-kilometer (about 1,740 miles) railway, linking Kunming, the capital of southern Chinas Yunnan Province; Mandalay, a city in southern Myanmar; Bangladeshs capital Dhaka; and Kolkata, the capital of Indias West Bengal State. Speaking to The Print, an unnamed Indian official said that India is not keen to accept BCIM under Beijings OBOR initiative, because doing so may compromise the countrys security arrangement in the northeastern region. Srikanth Kondapalli, professor of Chinese studies at Jawaharlal Nehru University in New Delhi, explained why to The Print: India is concerned that China supports the insurgents that are present in the northeastern states and hence the BCIM is not a feasible idea. Agents Seize More Than 1,000 Guns From Home in Upscale LA Neighborhood, Holmby Hills More than 1,000 firearms and thousands of rounds of ammunition were found early on May 8 at a home in one of the most exclusive upscale neighborhoods of Los Angeles, Holmby Hills. Dramatic aerial footage shows a massive collection of weapons scattered out on what appears to be blankets in the propertys driveway, as police take inventory. Homby Hills a search warrant at a home turns up a lotta guns & rifles. More information at 4p on channel 9 KCAL @KCBSKCALDesk pic.twitter.com/Q6g4OMhioC stu mundel (@Stu_Mundel) May 8, 2019 One man, whose name has yet to be released, was arrested on suspicion of unlawful transportation, and of giving, lending, or selling an assault weapon, the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) said, according to the Los Angeles Times. He is expected to be booked, authorities said. The raid occurred around 4 a.m in the 100 block of North Beverly Glen Boulevard. Police also found firearm manufacturing equipment and tools at the home. According to KABC, the home has multiple rooms and was cluttered with guns and ammunition. The weapons were described as a wide range of makes and models of different ages, including assault weapons, rifles, shotguns, and handguns. Many were modern, but some were also dated 50 years or more, with a few being fit as collectables as they were dated back to the Civil War, KABC reported. I had never seen so many weapons in my career of 31 years, LAPD Lt. Chris Ramirez told KABC. Thats such a big arsenal in a residence like this, in this type of neighborhood. Its astounding. He told the station that it is not illegal for someone to own a large collection of firearms but it is illegal to sell such weapons from a home, and without going through the extensively-regulated state and federal processes. Agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and LAPD were serving a search warrant. In a written statement to CNN, ATF spokeswoman Ginger Colbrun said that police had received a tip that someone was conducting illegal firearms transaction outside the scope of the federal firearm license that the individual possess. ???? ???? ???? New photos from LAPD of ammo found in the home officer says he believes thousands of rounds @CBSLA https://t.co/cA8OSFzTqS pic.twitter.com/PpaJSQP8gx Tom (T.J.) Wait (@CBSLATom) May 8, 2019 The Daily Mail reported that public property records show the home has five bedrooms and 8,200 square feet of living space. It was last sold in 2001 and its current estimated value is about $7 million. The LA Times reported that court records show the property is owned by Cynthia Beck, who has three daughters with the son of oil tycoon J. Paul Getty, Gordon Getty. Beck bought the property in January 2001, but it remains unclear if she has any connection to the firearms find, and the paper could not reach Beck for comment. Officers from both agencies remained on the scene and continued the investigation. They were going through and disposing of boxes and taking photographs of the evidence, the LA Times reported. Obviously its a lot, Officer Mike Lopez, a spokesman with the Los Angeles Police Department, told the LA Times. Theyre going to be there a long time. Possibly even tomorrow. In a statement sighted by the Times, the ATF said, ATF and LAPD have no reason to believe the public is in any danger. In 2015, LAPD seized 1,200 guns, seven tons of ammunition and $230,000 in cash from a home. The owner had died of natural causes and was found in his SUV outside. At the time, it was considered one of the largest weapons seizure from one home, the LAPD said. Cable News Network contributed to this report Amazons Use of Southern Poverty Law Center Hate List Challenged by Consumer Group Online retail giant Amazon should stop using the embattled Southern Poverty Law Centers ideologically biased hate group list to decide which charities qualify to receive donations under its AmazonSmile program, a consumer group says. AmazonSmile allows Amazon shoppers to help charities of their choice by donating 0.5 percent of the price of any purchase. The money passes through the Seattle-based AmazonSmile Foundation, which, according to its 2015 IRS filing, disbursed just under $13 million that year for charitable purposes. Hate-group designations made by the Montgomery, Alabama-based Southern Poverty Law Center are often hotly contested by groups so labeled. Critics say the idea of the hate group itself is nebulous and difficult to define and therefore open to abuse. The SPLC has suffered internal turmoil lately as its founder, Morris Dees, and its president, Richard Cohen, were forced out amid allegations of sexual improprieties, racial discrimination, and a hostile work environment for its employees. Hate Groups Critics, often members of mainstream conservative organizations, say the SPLC is a far-left group that uses a politically-skewed definition of hate to hurt its ideological enemies. The Center lumps mainstream conservatives in with fringe extremists, white-supremacists, and neo-Nazis. Critics say the group treats all opposition to open borders and multiculturalist initiatives as hate, and political expression of those views as hate speech. After the SPLC labeled the Family Research Councilthe mainstream conservative religious organizationas a hate group, gay activist Floyd Lee Corkins II in 2012 shot and badly wounded the FRC building manager who halted his planned killing spree. Corkins told investigators that he decided to attack the FRC office after finding the group listed on an SPLC Hate Map. He entered guilty pleas to three felonies and was convicted under the District of Columbias Anti-Terrorism Act of 2002. In June 2018, the SPLC paid more than $3 million as part of a legal settlement to former Muslim extremist Maajid Nawaz for wrongfully placing him and his counter-extremism group, Quillam, on an anti-Muslim hate list. Sometimes, the press will describe us as monitoring hate groups, former SPLC spokesman Mark Potok has said. I want to say plainly that our aim in life is to destroy these groups, completely destroy them, using a strictly ideological process. The agreement that charities have to sign to participate in AmazonSmile defines eligible organizations as public charities that the IRS recognizes under Section 501(c)(3) of the tax code that are in good legal standing and headquartered in the United States. Such eligible charities must not engage in, support, encourage, or promote: intolerance, discrimination or discriminatory practices based on race, sex, religion, nationality, disability, sexual orientation, or age; hate, terrorism, or violence; money laundering; other illegal, deceptive, or misleading activities. Emails to Amazon Brian Glicklich, executive director of Citizens for Corporate Accountability, outlined his groups campaign aimed at Amazon. As a publicly traded company, Amazon is obliged to keep the best interest of shareholders front and center, Glicklich told The Epoch Times. We are showing Amazon and its board how many Americans are distressed and angry that they have elected to help the Southern Poverty Law Center in its plan to economically harass peaceful conservative nonprofits, through what can best be described as a smear campaign. As of this morning, we have delivered over 25,000 petition emails to Amazon and its board in just a few days. By the date of their annual meeting, May 22nd, they will have received at least half a million emails. Its hard to imagine how Amazon or its board can ignore the voice of conservative America in order to defend SPLC, an organization that has been the subject of hundreds of stories about its wrongdoing and corruption. Among the conservative groups that have been labeled hate groups are the David Horowitz Freedom Center, Alliance Defending Freedom, Center for Immigration Studies, Center for Security Policy, Liberty Counsel, and Christians and Jews United for Israel. Glicklich said his organization doesnt necessarily support all groups that have received the hate group designation from SPLC. But we do not believe organizations espousing peaceful social and/or religious views belong on a hate list, and denied access to business services afforded others, or placed alongside truly violent and extremist organizations. SPLC Influences Others Amazon is not the only institution that has been guided by the SPLC. YouTube polices mainstream conservative voices based on SPLC recommendations. The SPLCs Heidi Beirich has acknowledged her group is part of YouTubes Trusted Flaggers program. YouTube (owned by Google) has suspended the accounts of several conservatives and demonetized themthat is, revoked their ability to collect ad revenues based on viewership. Twitter routinely purges users based on SPLC-inspired criteria. Such an ideological cleansing was needed at Twitter, the SPLC has claimed, because the racist alt-righta collection of far-right ideologies, groups, and individuals who believe multicultural forces are using political correctness to undermine white people had become popular on the social media platform. Some anti-SPLC activism directed at Internet platforms has been successful. Under pressure from conservative groups, GuideStar, a website that provides a database of information on nonprofits, changed its policy in 2017 and announced it would no longer flag nonprofits on its site that the SPLC labels hate groups. The same year, the Department of Defenses Office of Diversity Management and Equal Opportunity removed all SPLC-provided training material pertaining to extremist groups. In the documents, the SPLC compared Roman Catholics and Protestants to al-Qaeda. Neither the Southern Poverty Law Center nor Amazon responded to requests by The Epoch Times for comment for this article. Correction: A previous version of this article misspelled the name of Maajid Nawaz and erroneously described him. Nawaz calls himself a secular liberal Muslim. The Epoch Times regrets the error. Blind Teen With Autism Went Missing, 2 Army Dogs Found His Dead Body in a Pond A 15-year-old boy with autism who went missing earlier this week in Georgia was found dead in a small pond 300 feet from his home, the Pike County Sheriff said on May 9. Ephraim Moisey Burgreen went missing from Madden Bridge road in Molena on Wednesday at about 5 p.m., and 100 volunteers joined the search for him, including his mother. The investigators said no foul play was suspected to be involved, reported 11 Alive. Pike County officials launched the extensive search that included a sheriffs office drone and the Spalding County Sheriffs Office helicopter, according to PikeCountyGeorgia.com Blind teen with autism who went missing in Meriweather County found dead, police say https://t.co/BVkUJGy7mN pic.twitter.com/wMWSoNap93 Atlanta Informer (@atlantainformer) May 9, 2019 Officers on horseback also searched the area for him, but the teen was not found until 10:49 p.m., after two dogs trained by the army were sent to look for him. The dogs finally led the police to the small pond thats only waist deep. Pike County Fire Chief Rick OBarr told 11 Alive that Ephraim liked to play at the pond. We sent a team to see if we could get a boat into the pond and while looking for a way to get in, discovered his body in the middle of the pond, said Pike County Fire Department public information officer Anita Neath, according to PikeCountyGeorgia.com Earlier on Wednesday, the authorities posted information about Ephraim missing and sought public help to find him. Missing 15 y/o boy, blind and autistic. Missing from Madden Bridge Road in Molena, if you are in the Woodbury area keep your eyes open. Please call 911 if you happen upon him, said Meriweather County Government on its Facebook page. The authorities later posted an update but didnt provide any details about the death: He has been found. No further information known. Please pray for the family. Risk of Injury to Autistic People Children with autism are 40 times more likely to die from injury, according to a study published in the American Journal of Public Health (AJPH). The study found that people with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) face challenges with social skills and communication and die at the average age of 36. The National Autism Association reports that wandering from a safe environment is a leading risk for autistic children, and drowning is among the leading causes of death among people with autism. HIGH Injury Mortality in Individuals With Autism. https://t.co/1M1D6QChyz katie wright (@katiewr31413491) March 23, 2017 In 2009, 2010, and 2011, accidental drowning accounted for 91% total U.S. deaths reported in children with an ASD ages 14 and younger subsequent to wandering, the Association said on its website. It reported that children with ASD tend to wander at a rate four times higher than unaffected siblings. Two in three parents of elopers reported their missing children had a close call with a traffic injury. 32% of parents reported a close call with a possible drowning, the Association said. Children and young teens with autism are 40 times more likely to die from injury, study says https://t.co/7q6tvTLO2g pic.twitter.com/wVAI333wVQ CNN (@CNN) March 22, 2017 Dr. Guohua Li, senior author of the study published on AJPH, said autistic children often suffer from anxiety and seek relief by wandering, especially towards the water. First, the prevalence of autism has been increasing, Li said, according to CNN. Li said an estimated 3.5 million people with autism live in the US, including about 500,000 children under the age of 15. There was always music in our house when I was growing up: operas and piano sonatas and string quartets. I still remember the sound of the needle poised on a record making the noise of hushed applause before the music started. When I was 4, my mother asked me if I would like to learn to play the piano. I replied that I would teach myself. She immediately set about finding me a teacher. A series of teachers, really, as I was deemed a prodigy; I moved up the totem pole of tutors. My mothers ambitions for my concert-pianist future coursed through her veins. My last teacher was Professor Adolph Hallis. Professor Hallis accepted only exceptional pupils. His other star student was Marian Friedman. Marian was talented, diligent, and dedicated. I could tell. I would be sitting on a tapestry couch in the waiting room, waiting for her to be released. When I was 10, I played with the Johannesburg Symphony Orchestra. When, at age 14, I was selected to play at the Young Artists Concerto Festival, I started having pre-recital nerves. I also resented the four hours I had to practice the piano every day. Prodigiousness in childhood does not always predict adult eminence. Marian went on refining her brilliance. She is described as a connoisseurs pianist by The Boston Globe. In the Globes July 13, 2005 article, it was reported from Rhode Island that Mark Malkovich III, general director of the Newport Music Festival for 30 years, celebrated his 75th birthday with a present to himself: getting Marian Friedman to play a recital. She is extremely low-profile. At What Price? Stories of child prodigies in the classical genre have a long history and include the greatest composers in Western history. When Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was 6, he performed on the harpsichord for The Empress of Austria. Maria Theresa and her family looked at his chubby, dimpled hands moving precisely on the keyboard and were charmed. When he finished the performance, the story goes, he ran up to the empress, climbed up on her knee, and kissed her. She returned the kiss, enchanted by his character and his talent. He was giving piano and violin recitals. It is said that at the age of 3, he had perfect pitch. By age 5, he had composed a concerto and by 8, his first symphony. Mozarts father, Leopold, was probably the original pushy parent, forcing him to perform all over Europe. Few know that Mozarts sister, Maria Anna (nicknamed Nannerl), was also a prodigy, but her destiny was marriage. Mozart seemed to cope with the great expectations that come with precocious talent. Others havent. Violinist Niccolo Paganini was locked in a room and forced to practice, a regimen that, some said, helped him to develop a drinking problem by the time he was 16. Some prodigies thought to have the gift had demanding fathers who doubled as demanding teachers. Lang Lang is a Chinese concert pianist whose accomplishments include performances with the Berlin Philharmonic at the opening of the Beijing Olympic Games, a White House state dinner, and sold-out shows at Carnegie Hall. From the age of 2, Lang Lang would sit with his father, Lang Guoren, who made his son practice up to four hours a day. As Lang Lang grew older, he practiced eight hours a day. Growing up in Maos China, the fathers own dreams of musical success were smashed. He wanted his son to be the musician he was never allowed to be. Did his determination border on psychological or physical abuse? Lang says no. He and his father wanted the same thing: for Lang Lang to become a globally famous musician. I was never forced to play the piano, he said in a China Daily article. Genius as an Abnormality What are child prodigies? Are they completely different human beings? Apart from agreeing that prodigies possess levels of ability that most adults never can, we still dont know where prodigiousness originates from. The debate of nature versus nurture continues to rage. Writer David Shenk goes as far as to argue that prodigiousness is not in fact genetic. Scientists continue to debate the origins of prodigiousness. General intelligence, working memory, or even a form of autism could be responsible, they argue, as NeuroNation reports. Piano teacher Veda Kaplinsky of Juilliard said to The New York Times: Genius is an abnormality and can signal other abnormalities ADD or OCD or Aspergers. Scholars argue that Mozart himself was on the autism spectrum. Child Prodigies Today There is a long history of child prodigies in the classical music genre. Beethoven, Chopin, Liszt, and Mendelssohn are just a few. But in recent years, a growing number of prodigies of increasingly young ages are reaching a global audience. China has an estimated 30 million young pianists and 10 million young violinists, The New York Times says. And Newsweek reports that Chinese prodigies are attending European and North American music schools and conservatories. According to Murray McLachlan, a teacher at Chelthams School of Music in Manchester, England, the success of the Chinese at music competitions is unsurprising. McLachlan observed, in the Independent, that this success derives from the rock-solid work ethos of their families. Musicians are doing more advanced things at a younger age than ever before, Kaplinsky said, in Newsweek. Today kids are recording the Chopin etudes at age 10, she said. When I was young, nobody played them until they were adults. Its the Olympic syndrome: Records exist in order to be broken. Umi Garrett, who was 8 years old when she played Liszt on The Ellen DeGeneres Show, displayed the commonality of prodigious children: an extraordinary desire and dedication. She told Ellen that she would play the piano all day long if she could. Choosing a Path This begs the question, should I have cut short my own classical music career? I was 18 when it was decided that I would go to the University of the Witwatersrand to study for a bachelors degree in music. At the last minute, I changed my mind about doing music and enrolled for a degree in fine arts instead. Wits School of Arts in the 1970s shines like a diamond in the dust bunnies of my memory. Ive come to understand that the ultimate achievement of any human being is love. We need to love what we do. If we hesitate, then we need to rock with the waves and invent a new way of being in the world. Jani Allan is a South African journalist, columnist, writer, and broadcaster. Chinese Bid for Washington Metro Contracts Is a Major Security Threat News Analysis A Chinese state-owned company is bidding for a more than $500 million contract to supply rail cars for the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority, and the contract should be raising eyebrows in terms of finances and security. The company, China Railway Construction Corporation Limited (CRCC), is based in Beijing and is the worlds second-largest construction and engineering company. It is owned by the Chinese regimes State-owned Assets Supervision and Administration Commission of the State Council. Being owned by the Chinese regime means its held under Chinese law, meaning that any data it collects through Wi-Fi or sensors will be liable to Chinese data monitoring laws. Under the Chinese Communist Partys (CCP) National Security Law, all data needs to be secure and controllable. The CCP has large-scale data monitoring programs under its Golden Shield censorship system, its Skynet surveillance system, its Social Credit System to track and rate citizens, and others. Erik Olson, vice president of the Rail Security Alliance, told The Epoch Times in a previous interview that trains today are fitted with numerous systems for monitoring, which could be compromised if the CCP were able to control the rails. Modern trains have closed-circuit cameras, internal Wi-Fi, and various types of sensors that can collect data. Reuters published a story on the potential Washington Metro deal on May 9, claiming that national security hawks are circling in on the contract potentially going to China. It questions why a state would be interested in spying on people using subway carsyet for Washington, the answer should be obvious. If the CCP was able to receive data from the Wi-Fi networks, security cameras, and other sensors, it would mean the data of any government officials using those networks could be compromised. For example, Pentagon officials checking their email on the networks could have their passwords stolen. It also would mean that the CCP would be able to track the movements of individuals and those theyre traveling with, as Chinas facial recognition technology is among the most advanced in the world. FBI agents meeting with sources could have their sources compromised, and government officials having improper meetings could be blackmailed. The CCP could extend the same systems it uses against its own citizens into the heart of U.S. politics. Reuters doesnt explain that CRCC is not engaged in a normal business competition. Being state-owned, the company doesnt need to make a profit. This allows it to bid below cost and push out competitors. And it often bids at a significantly lower amount than any honest competitor could afford. CRCC has shown its ability to dominate markets using this method in Australia. After it was allowed into the Australian market close to 10 years ago, it eventually acquired one of the three main Australian rail companies, and the two others went out of business. The Chinese company already has been using the same tactic in the United States. Olson said that in Boston, CRCC was bidding at about half the price quoted by its competitor. The Boston one is particularly interesting because the second-lowest bid was from Bombardier, which was around $1 billion, and CRCC came in at $569 million, Olson said. [CRCC] dont have to make money, so they can do whatever they want. Some cities are going around federal regulations so they can work with CRCC. In Boston, for example, the local government waived federal funds so they wont be held accountable to President Donald Trumps 2017 Buy American and Hire American executive order. Video footage run by China's CCTV shows Canadian Robert Lloyd Schellenberg at his retrial held in Dalian Intermediate People's Court in Dalian, Liaoning Province, China. A Chinese court has held an appeal hearing on May 9 for the Canadian who was sentenced to death for drug smuggling. No decision was immediately announced after the hearing. (CCTV via AP) China Holds Appeal Hearing for Canadian Sentenced to Death BEIJINGA Chinese court held an appeal hearing on May 9 for a Canadian who was sentenced to death for drug smuggling in a case that has deepened a diplomatic rift between the two countries. The intermediate-level court in northeastern Liaoning Province said Robert Schellenbergs sentence would be announced at an unspecified date. Convicted of playing a central role in a methamphetamine smuggling operation, Schellenberg was initially sentenced to 15 years in November, only to be handed the death sentence at a hastily-scheduled January retrial. That came after Canada arrested Meng Wanzhou, chief financial officer of Chinese telecom giant Huawei, on a U.S. extradition warrant in December. Days later, two CanadiansMichael Kovrig and Michael Spavorwere detained in China in apparent retaliation. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau condemned Schellenbergs sentencing in January and accused China of arbitrarily applying the death penalty. Schellenberg, who was arrested in 2014, has maintained his innocence. More than 440 pounds (200 kilograms) of methamphetamine were seized as part of Schellenbergs case, the court said. It called the 36-year-old Canadian the principal offender and said the evidence presented was true and sufficient. Canadian Embassy officials were notified and Schellenbergs litigation rights were lawfully protected during Thursdays proceedings, the court added. Schellenbergs attorney Zhang Dongshuo said it was not clear when the court would announce a decision. Both sides comprehensively debated what each believes to be the issues in the case, Zhang said, adding that at this stage he cannot assess what the final judgment will be. The appeal hearing followed Mengs court appearance on Wednesday in Vancouver. Meng is accused of lying to banks about the companys dealings with Iran in violation of U.S. trade sanctions. Washington has warned its allies about using Huaweis technology over concerns that China could use the equipment for surveillance and theft of information. By Yanan Wang This undated photo provided by Rachel Short shows Kendrick Castillo, who was killed during a shooting at the STEM School Highlands Ranch in Highlands Ranch, Colorado, on May 7, 2019. (Rachel Short via AP) Colorado School Shooting Victim Kendrick Castillo Is Hailed a Hero Kendrick Castillo was the 18-year-old sole victim of the May 7 Colorado school shooting. He died while trying to tackle one of the shooters. The attackers were identified by law enforcement officials as 18-year-old Devon Erickson and 16-year-old Maya McKinney, also known as Alec. The two allegedly walked into the STEM School Highlands Ranch, a charter school outside of Denver, through an entrance without metal detectors and opened fire in two classrooms. One classmate, Nui Giasolli, described the scene in her British literature class just before 2 p.m. local time. Her classmate Devon Erickson had arrived late to class. Nui Giasolli, student inside Colorado STEM school during shooting, tearfully thanks the heroic students who brought down gunman so others could escape pic.twitter.com/2xm7g54dUc TODAY (@TODAYshow) May 8, 2019 The shooter came in late. He walked to the other side of the classroom, where we also had another door. And he opened the door. He walked back as if he was going back to his seat, Giasolli told NBCs Today show. Then he walked back to the door and he closed it. The next thing I know, hes pulling a gun and hes telling nobody to move. And thats when Kendrick lunged at him, and he shot Kendrick, giving all of us enough time to get underneath our desks to get ourselves safe and to run across the room to escape. Kendrick did not survive. He had three days of school left before his scheduled graduation day on May 20. Kendricks father, John Castillo, told The Denver Post that he was the best kid in the world. It doesnt surprise me. He cared enough about people that he would do something like that, even though its against my better judgment, John said of his only child. I wish he had gone and hid, he said. But thats not his character. His character is about protecting people, helping people. Kendrick had hoped to study electrical engineering in college, and was set to attend Arapahoe Community College in the fall, John told the Post. This is 18-year-old Kendrick Castillo. He was the young man killed in the #STEMshooting yesterday. Were told he was passionate about technology, on the schools robotics team, and set to graduate in just 3 days. Sending his family so much love during this time. @CBSDenver pic.twitter.com/QYalFnsCom Mekialaya White (@Mekialaya) May 8, 2019 A member of the schools robotics club and a relentless tinkerer, Castillo had an infectious smile and gentle sense of humor, according to friends. Cecilia Bedard, 19, had known Castillo since elementary school and said he was always friendly, modest, and excited to help people. He made a point of always joining his father at Knights of Columbus fundraisers and bingo nights. He told me he wanted to be a Knights of Columbus because he wanted to help not only people, but his community, Bedard told Post in a message. He was the bravest soul Ive ever met and never even cared what others thought because he was too busy finding ways to make you smile. He worked part-time at a local manufacturing company that had offered him a job after an internship because he was such a standout employee. Rachel Short, president of the company, Baccara, told the Associated Press: To find he went down as a hero, Im not surprised. Thats exactly who Kendrick was. Colorado Gov. Jared Polis commended Kendricks bravery in a message on Twitter: Colorado will always remember the heroism of Kendrick Castillo. Colorado hero Kendrick Castillo lost his life saving others. Kendrick, 18, lunged towards the gunman and helped prevent an even worse tragedy. Colorado will always remember the heroism of Kendrick Castillo.https://t.co/VhlerQe768 Jared Polis (@jaredpolis) May 8, 2019 More Heroes Brendan Bialy, a close friend of Kendrick, told the Associated Press that Kendrick sprang into action against the shooter and immediately was on top of him with complete disregard for his own safety. Bialy himself had wrestled the gun from Ericksons hand and the students subdued him before police arrived. The other shooter was captured by an armed security guard. According to AP, he smiled as he recounted the struggle with the shooter, saying that he wanted to focus on the positive. They completely and utterly failed in a matter of half a minute, he said of the attackers. What I saw yesterday was the absolute best of people, he added. Bialy has signed up for the Marine Corps Delayed Entry Program and plans to join them when he graduates. I want to thank Brendan Bialy, Jackson Gregory, and Lucas Albertoni, for being some of the kids who were brave enough to bring us down so that all of us could escape and all of us could be reunited with our families. They were very heroic, Giasolli told NBC. I think I wouldnt be standing here right now, I think I wouldnt be able to tell the stories for how brave Kendrick was, how brave Jackson and Lucas and everybody were because they made that choice to sacrifice themselves so that all of us could go home that night. Another student at the school, Joshua Jones, was also shot twice as he tried to disarm one of the attackers, his family said in a statement. The Associated Press contributed to this report (From left) Czech Senator Marek Hilser and Member of Parliament Mikulas Peksa work together to prepare an amendment to the organ transplant law. (Screenshot from ceske-volby.cz/pirati.cz) Czech Lawmakers are Finalizing a Draft Amendment to the Organ Transplant Law Czech lawmakers are finalizing a new law amendment intended to address organ transplant surgery practices in China. The law is the latest in a growing movement against involuntary organ harvesting from prisoners of conscience in China and human trafficking on a global scale. The new law amendment is intended to allow the prosecution of an organ transplant patient who obtains an organ from an involuntary donor. It is also intended to identify the countries to be banned from participating in organ transplantation, particularly China. Senator Marek Hilser and I were shocked at how much the Chinese state trampled on its minorities .We especially regard trade with prisoners as an absolutely immoral violation of fundamental human rights. We also want to send a clear signal that we, as the Czech Republic, reject such practices, Member of Parliament Mikulas Peksa said on May 2 in an email interview with The Epoch Times about the proposed amendment to the transplant law. It took nearly six months to prepare the bill, including researching similar laws being drafted in Canada or issued in Israel, and collecting information from human rights organizations, added Peksa. The law was first proposed by Peksa and Senator Marek Hilser in response to a public hearing held on Nov. 19, 2018 in the Senate over forced organ harvesting from imprisoned Falun Gong practitioners in China for organ transplantation surgery. The public hearing subsequently resulted in a resolution issued by the Senate of the Czech Republic on March 20 which calls on the Chinese regime to stop its persecution of Falun Gong practitioners, Christians, Tibetans, and Uyghurs; to release all prisoners of conscience; and to abide by international human rights conventions. Falun Gong, a peaceful traditional Chinese meditation practice based on the principles of truthfulness, compassion, tolerance, has been brutally persecuted by the Chinese Communist Party since 1999. The push for an amendment to the transplant law is drawn from the Canadian bill S-240, and the organ transplant laws that have been adopted by Spain (2013), Taiwan (2015), Italy (2016) and Israel (2006). Recently, Australia is also considering the introduction of a new transplant law and the Belgian parliament voted unanimously for a new addition to the penal code that criminalizes unethical medical tourism. The European Parliament passed a resolution in 2013 and the U.S. House of Representatives passed legislation in 2016both condemning organ harvesting from non-consenting prisoners of conscience and religious and ethnic minorities, particularly adherents of Falun Gong. The proposed law is particularly intended to curb the demand for organ transplants in China. We want the Czech government to clearly state which countries have problems with trafficking in organs, so that it makes it much more difficult to obtain an organ in that country. And yes, the Peoples Republic of China is the country for which we came up with this approach, explains Peksa. Peksa recommends the proposed law should recognize certain countries that only allow voluntary organ donationsdonors who are not forced or coerced in donating their organs. This will create a simple map that tells a person who has decided not to use the well-functioning Czech transplantation system where they will then only be asked for a certificate from the hospital and where, on the contrary, the matter will be more problematic and they will be threatened with several years in prison. According to a survey carried out in the preparatory phase of the law, transplant tourism was found to be a marginal phenomenon in the Czech Republic. Senator Marek Hilser, who studied medicine and international relations at Charles University in Prague, is also taking further steps in educating the public. On May 28, he will hold a debate about China and foreign policy in his local office, during which he will present Human Harvestan award-winning film which documents an investigation of human organ trafficking in China. It is a public secret that Chinas booming transplant industry is the result of taking organs from political prisoners, and the Chinese communist regime makes money from this. If we can not directly influence these crimes, it is our moral duty to adopt legislation to combat organ transplant tourism, said Hilser in a press release on Jan. 14. Mayor of Prague Zdenek Hrib spoke about the issue of the abuse of transplant surgery in China during an interview with NTD on Mar. 29. He said: The role of the Senate in this field is much more important than the city of Prague, but I have to say that for me as a doctor, this practice is absolutely unacceptable. The violent harvesting of organs is a totally unacceptable topic and the international communitys response should be very severe in this respect. Since 2006, a number of experts have mapped out a sharp increase in transplants and trafficking in organs from the prison system in China, which according to experts, continues to this day. According to a number of experts, witnesses and medical staff, however, some religious and ethnic groups are persecuted and imprisoned in China and their vital organs are harvested in modern transplant centers. And the Chinese regime is behind the abuses. The Chinese totalitarian regime really keeps hundreds of thousands of political prisoners in concentration camps. A person in there becomes merely an organ carrier, Czech Senator Pavel Fischer said during a session of the Senate on Mar. 20. Organs are harvested from healthy, living persons to forward them on in the best quality possible. Fischer also commented on the speed with which organs are transplanted in China. This inhumane machine is causing virtually no waiting time for organ transplantation in China. They are done much faster than anywhere else in the world. The body of such a donor is then declared dead. And if the transplant is not a success, there is basically another operation offered to clients during the warranty period, said Fischer. The mass killing of Chinese prisoners of conscience for their organs is well documented in the investigative reports The Bloody Harvest and The Slaughter and other reports by the non-governmental organization WOIPFG (Word Organization to Investigate the Persecution of Falun Gong), and ETAC (International Coalition to End Transplant Abuse in China), which is made up of a group of lawyers, academics, ethicists, medical professionals, researchers and human rights advocates. Senator Vaclav Hampl said during a session of the Senate on Mar. 20: Unfortunately, it took a long time to get convincing information, but today we have no doubt that Falun Gong practitioners in China were and are, and possibly other groups of people, abused (for transplantation) and even on a very massive level. Democrats Are Out to Destroy AG Barr, Says Jim Jordan Rep. Jim Jordan (R-Ohio) said on May 8 that the Democrats were out to destroy Attorney General William Barr. Democrats on the House Judiciary Committee voted on May 8 to recommend the full House of Representatives to vote to find Barr in contempt of Congress. They accuse Barr of failing to comply with a subpoena for the full, non-redacted report by special counsel Robert Mueller. With the resolution adopted in a 2416 vote, the full House can hold a vote to find Barr in contempt. RepublicansJordan among themsay the subpoena forces Barr into a legal Catch-22, since Barr would break federal law by disclosing grand jury material. Bill Barr is following the law and whats his reward? Jordan asked at the beginning of a hearing on whether to hold Barr in contempt of Congress. Democrats are going to hold him in contempt. Bill Barr is following the law. Whats his reward? Democrats are going to hold him in contempt. pic.twitter.com/slK3cXf3k2 Rep. Jim Jordan (@Jim_Jordan) May 8, 2019 I dont think today is actually about getting information, Jordan continued. I dont think its about getting the unredacted Mueller report. I dont think last weeks hearing was actually about having staff question the attorney general. I think its all about trying to destroy Bill Barr because Democrats are nervous hes going to get to the bottom of everything, Jordan said. Hes going to find out how and why this investigation started in the first place. Republicans accuse Democrats of attempting to discredit Barr because he is reviewing the origins of the Trump-Russia investigation and looking into allegations that the Obama administration spied on Trumps campaign. They also say the Democrats are using the contempt proceedings to score points for the 2020 election by distracting from the Trump administrations successes on the economic front. Read More Attorney General Barr Says Trump Campaign Was Spied On The Redacted Mueller Report Over the course of 22 months, special counsel Robert Mueller investigated allegations of collusion between the Trump campaign and Russia to influence the 2016 presidential election. The Justice Department released the special counsels report, with redactions, to Congress and the public on April 18. In the report, Mueller concluded that there was no evidence of collusion by Trump, anyone on his campaign, or any U.S. citizen. Mueller also did not make a prosecutorial decision about the claim that the presidents alleged actions amounted to obstruction of justice. Barr and Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein reviewed the arguments Mueller presented and concluded that there is not enough evidence to bring an obstruction case. House Democrats refused to accept the findings of the Mueller report and have launched hearings and investigations into the obstruction of justice claims that many of them have openly admitted they hoped would lead to the impeachment of President Donald Trump. They have also criticized Barr for his handling of the release of the report, accusing him of siding with the president, while repeatedly calling for the full unredacted report despite knowing that compliance would result in Barr violating the law. In response to Democrat demands to see beneath the redactions in the report, Barr offered lawmakers to view a minimally redacted version of the document. House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jerry Nadler (D-N.Y.) argued that the rules for viewing the document were too strict. The Justice Department warned Nadler on May 7 that if the committee moved to a contempt vote, the department would ask the White House to assert executive privilege over the Mueller report. Executive Privilege In the hours leading up to the contempt vote, the White House moved to assert executive privilege over the full special counsel report. Presidents hold the authority to assert executive privilege to withhold information concerning internal executive branch deliberations. The Justice Department is part of the executive branch. Faced with Chairman Nadlers blatant abuse of power, and at the Attorney Generals request, the President has no other option than to make a protective assertion of executive privilege, the White House press secretary Sarah Sanders said in a statement. Statement on Executive Privilege pic.twitter.com/6ujCZDnMC0 Sarah Sanders (@PressSec) May 8, 2019 Reasons for Redactions On April 18 with the release of the redacted Mueller report, Barr said that Trump had declined the opportunity to request and further blacking out of the report. The Justice Department provided White House attorneys with a copy of the report in accordance with the law, Barr said. The decision to assert executive privilege to redact portions of the document rested with the president and he decided to not request any redactions in the interests of transparency and full disclosure to the American people, according to Barr. The existing redactions in the report were limited to four categories that Barr outlined as grand jury material shielded from disclosure by federal law, intelligence sources and methods the disclosure of which could be harmful to national security, the identities of people who were not ultimately charged with a crime, and the interests of peripheral third parties who were not ultimately prosecuted. Epoch Times reporters Ivan Pentchoukov and Janita Kan contributed to this report From NTD.com MADISON HEIGHTS, MICHIGAN, May 09, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- InfuSystem Holdings, Inc. (NYSE American: INFU), a leading national provider of infusion pumps and related services for the healthcare industry in the U.S. and Canada, today announced that it will issue first quarter 2019 financial results on Tuesday, May 14, 2019, before the market opens. The Company will also conduct a conference call for all interested investors on Tuesday, May 14, 2019, at 9:00 a.m. Eastern Time to discuss its first quarter 2019 financial results. To participate in this call, please dial (833) 366-1127 or (412) 902-6773, or listen via a live webcast, which is available in the investors section of the Companys website at https://ir.infusystem.com/ . A replay of the call will be available by visiting https://ir.infusystem.com/ for the next 90 days or by calling (877) 344-7529 or (412) 317-0088, confirmation code 10131508, through May 21, 2019. About InfuSystem Holdings, Inc. InfuSystem Holdings, Inc. is a leading provider of infusion pumps and related services to hospitals, oncology practices and other alternate site healthcare providers. Headquartered in Madison Heights, Michigan, the Company delivers local, field-based customer support and operates Centers of Excellence in Michigan, Kansas, California, Massachusetts and Ontario, Canada. The Company's stock is traded on the NYSE American under the symbol INFU. Additional information about InfuSystem Holdings, Inc. is available at www.infusystem.com . # # # European commissioners Julian King (R) and Mariya Gabriel hold a press conference on the code of practice signed by online platforms to fight disinformation at the European Commission in Brussels on Jan. 29, 2019. (Emmanuel Dunand/AFP/Getty Images) Disinformation May Have Influenced Half of Voters in Upcoming EU Elections, Researchers Say Free speech advocates warn against restrictive legislation to combat the issue BRUSSELSCyber experts have warned that social media accounts that pump out state-sponsored disinformation may have influenced up to half of all Europeans in the runup to this months European Union elections. In a new report, the technology firm SafeGuard Cyber unearthed evidence of 6,700 bad actors linked to the Russian government, who have posted enough content to reach as many as 241 million users across the bloc. The researchers highlighted that networks of bots spreading fake news are becoming more sophisticated, with messaging now tailored for individual EU countries and delivered in multiple languages. Researchers found accounts linked to the Kremlin have been actively adding to the Brexit confusion in the UK, while simultaneously pushing and amplifying content within other EU member states encouraging other exits. The report recommends that the EU fund a new center of excellence staffed with analysts in response to emerging disinformation threats. The report underlines the dangers of disinformation online. Malicious actors, whether they be state or non-state, will not hesitate to use the internet to attempt to influence and interfere in our democratic processes, said Julian King, the EUs security commissioner. European politicians have repeatedly raised fears that Europe-wide elections, which will take place May 2326, are vulnerable to meddling on an industrial scale from Russia and other global rivals like China. Senior EU officials are locked in an ongoing battle with social media giants, including Facebook, Google, and Twitter, over what they perceive as an inadequate response to the spreading of fake news and terrorist content. Guy Verhofstadt, the leader of the pan-European liberal grouping, warned that there would be legislative repercussions for technology giants if disinformation does affect the outcome of the EU elections. Disinformation is part of Putins war against European democracies, our security and our way of life, the former Belgian prime minister said, in response to the report. This perverse assault on our values cannot continue. The big internet platforms must be held to account for any failings at the 2019 European elections. In March, the European Parliament adopted a resolution calling for new laws to enable a robust response to state-sponsored propaganda, including harsh punishment for social media firms that fail to speedily remove such content. In their report, MEPs explicitly criticized Russia, China, Iran, and North Korea for increasingly aggressive attempts to undermine the foundations and principles of European democracies. However, some conservative politicians and free speech campaigners have raised fears that the rush to combat the spread of disinformation is leading to bad legislation that will open the door to censorship of some views. All too often, legislation focuses on the trees, not the forest. Its quite likely to end up being irrelevant, or even to exacerbate the root causes of the fake news phenomenon, said Alberto Alemanno, a professor of EU law at HEC Paris business school, according to The Guardian. British politician Nigel Farage, who was one of the key figures campaigning for Brexit, has warned that the conversation around fake news is being exploited to shut down right-wing views on social media. Addressing Facebook chief Mark Zuckerberg at the EU Parliament in 2018, he said: Im talking about people who have majority mainstream opinions, and frankly, I feel they are being willfully discriminated against. What interests me is, who decides what is acceptable? Im not usually someone who calls for legislation on the international stage. Im starting to wonder if we need a social media bill of rights to basically protect free speech. A protester holds a placard during a rally against the extradition law outside the Legislative Council building in Hong Kong, China, on May 4, 2019. (Anthony Kwan/Getty Images) Hong Kong Delegation Urges Canada to Fight China Extradition Amendment Proposed legislation could become another means for China to target Canadians OTTAWAA potential threat to the more than 300,000 Canadians in Hong Kong could become reality unless proposed extradition legislation is defeated. Time is short and a delegation led by Hong Kongs father of democracy Martin Lee is visiting Canada and the United States to try to stop another of Beijings attempts to undermine Hong Kongs autonomy. At an event hosted by the Macdonald-Laurier Institute think tank on May 7, Lee said China has broken its promises to Hong Kong, whose chief executive Carrie Lam is also effectively shutting down the democracy movement. Lee, a lawyer and founder of the Hong Kong Democratic Party, helped draft Hong Kongs Basic Lawa mini-constitution. We dont recognize the courts of China, Lee said. He had to work with Chinese lawyers while drafting the Basic Law and said theyve acknowledged that their rule of law was not up to Hong Kongs standards. Those standards are supposed to be based on the British-style legal system until 2047. Given the abject reputation of Chinas legal system, the proposed law would violate the rights to a fair trial for people in Hong Kong who were extradited. Such rights were guaranteed when the city was handed over from British colonial rule to China in 1997. Hong Kongs proposed extradition amendment was first announced in February. With support from the Beijing-friendly Lam, China could seek extraditions on a case-by-case basis. China has the death penalty, but Hong Kong does not. Over 100,000 people in Hong Kong have protested in the streets against the proposed law. Ten Canadian and American organizations relayed deep concerns about the extradition proposal on April 6. Lee has previously detailed how former Chinese leader Deng Xiaoping wanted to practise capitalism and wished for Hong Kong to guide China forward. Instead, Chinas subsequent leaders havent followed through and have gradually whittled away at Hong Kongs freedoms. Since the December arrest of Huawei executive Meng Wanzhou, which infuriated China, Canada has come to know that Chinese politics gets involved in legal matters and that Beijing will also retaliate with economic pressure in hopes of achieving its goals. China has already detained two Canadians on trumped-up charges, sentenced two other Canadians to death, and restricted trade on canola and pork. There is no reason why the Canadian government does not interfere in Chinese internal affairs of Hong Kong, because, as I said, when the joint declaration was announced [in 1997], the Canadian government was lobbied by both the British and Chinese governments. So the Chinese government actually internationalized the Hong Kong issue, Lee said. According to an email, Global Affairs Canada has raised serious questions with the Hong Kong government over the proposed extradition amendment and is closely monitoring any possible legal changes. Avoiding Upheaval The urgency is palatable, as Gloria Fung, president of the Canada-Hong Kong Link, suggested that the proposed amendment could be passed in as little as a months time. It is a threat to the business sector in the financial hub that is Hong Kong. Fung says Canadian businesses in Hong Kong could be playing a very risky game given that bribery is often involved. That could become a convenient way for business people to be extradited to China if they are ever targeted by business partners or government officials in China. I think its about time for our business sector to respond strongly to oppose this proposed amendment, she said in an interview. Labour leader and former legislator Lee Cheuk Yan says the new amendment could be used by the Chinese for extortion and blackmail against business people in Hong Kong. Theres a lesson in all of this for Taiwan as well, he said. The one country, two systems Hong Kong model as an incentive for Taiwan has been destroyed, says Yan. Our fight is also for the Taiwanese, he added. Hong Kong youth democracy leader Nathan Law points to the potential silencing of academia. Hong Kong scholars research threats to the democratic system and ways to blunt infiltration via Chinas influence-building schemes; they would be in grave danger as prime targets for extradition, he says. Hong Kong has always had a firewallbetween China and Hong Kongthe authoritarian world and the liberal world, he said. You can see how they have retaliated against Canadian citizens after the Huawei incident. Lee reiterates that the decision on the extradition amendment resides with the Hong Kong government and that Canadas diplomatic channels have to speak up. Why dont you get your consulate general in Hong Kong to ask our chief executive Ms. Carrie Lam, What the hell are you doing? he said. Democracy Takes Hit Future democracy activists could face trials in communist China. Nine from the 2014 Occupy movement have already been sentenced. These are not the types of actions envisioned when Hong Kong was handed over in 1997. She [Lam] said recently trying to move democracy forward is like knocking your head against a wall. To me, even if she is right, she should just knock her head against the wall and get it done, Lee said in a separate interview. I believe she is deliberately helping Beijing destroy Hong Kong as an international city, he added. I think Beijing wants Shanghai to take over. Thats my view. The analogy Lee gives is that Hong Kong is like a welcoming oasis in the desert that is China. He points to Chinese communist officials moving family and money out of China and ponders how long the communist regime can last. We call them naked officials. Where can you find another government like this? They dont believe in their own government. Lee is confident freedom and democracy will come to China, but the imminent danger is Beijings growing influence over Hong Kong. The only right thing to do is to ask China to honour the obligations to Hong Kong before there is reason for you to enter into more treaties with China, Lee said. China backtracking on the arrangement with the British government and Hong Kong is yet another example of it disrespecting mutual agreements, such as those under the World Trade Organization. There is, of course, at least a moral obligation on the part of the Canadian government to speak up, Lee said. Follow Rahul on Twitter @RV_ETBiz I recently re-read George Orwells anti-Soviet fable Animal Farm for the first time since high school, and I found myself at a loss to explain one of the books darkest scenes to the student I was tutoring. In this scene, Napoleon (Orwells stand-in for Stalin) consolidates his power over Animal Farm (i.e., the Soviet Union) by accusing a group of pigs of conspiring with the exiled Snowball (i.e., Trotsky) to undermine the revolution. The pigs, having been coerced by Napoleons dogs (i.e., the secret police), confess to being agents of Snowball. When they had finished their confession, the dogs promptly tore their throats out, and in a terrible voice Napoleon demanded whether any other animal had anything to confess. The three hens who had been the ringleaders in the attempted rebellion over the eggs now came forward and stated that Snowball had appeared to them in a dream and incited them to disobey Napoleons orders. They, too, were slaughtered. Then a goose came forward and confessed to having secreted six ears of corn during the last years harvest and eaten them in the night. Then a sheep confessed to having urinated in the drinking poolurged to do this, so she said, by Snowballand two other sheep confessed to having murdered an old ram, an especially devoted follower of Napoleon, by chasing him round and round a bonfire when he was suffering from a cough. They were all slain on the spot. And so the tale of confessions and executions went on, until there was a pile of corpses lying before Napoleons feet and the air was heavy with the smell of blood. Why, my student wanted to know, would these animals confess if they knew they were going to be executed? His next question was even more insightful: Did the animals even commit the crimes to which they confessed? Some crimes, such as the goose stealing corn, seem plausible, and the hens really did rebel, but the murder of the old ram sounds completely absurd. The tendency to echo Napoleons propaganda by blaming the phantom scapegoat Snowball further suggests that many of these confessions are fiction. I found the first part of my answer in A Tale of Two Cities by Charles Dickens. As Dickens describes the mass guillotinings of the French Revolution, he alerts his readers to a species of fervour or intoxication, causing unnecessary executions due to a wild infection of the wildly shaken public mind. Like Orwell, Dickens portrays innocent men and women clamoring for execution at the hands of a bloodthirsty revolutionary regime. But why? According to Dickens, the French Revolution degenerated into a death cult, with the guillotine replacing the Cross as the instrument of mankinds salvation. Christians hope to reach a heavenly paradise by placing their faith in Christ and expressing that faith through good works. Revolutionaries, on the other hand, seek to create an earthly paradise by killing everyone who stands in their way. Execution thus becomes the sacrament by which the community is purified. Those who truly believe in the future utopia promised by Marx or by the leaders of the French Revolution will naturally be drawn to partake of it. Marxism is more rigorous and unforgiving than any religion in its call for total commitment to the cause, a standard of which all people (and animals) must necessarily fall short. If I, a sinful man (or hen or goose or sheep) who had tried and failed to live up to the revolutionary ideal, believed that I could best hasten the arrival of heaven on earth by allowing myself to become a victim of sacred state violence, the temptation would certainly be strong. Whether the goose stole the corn or not, it is easy to imagine why he felt he had no choice but to embrace his own execution. Having been deceived into feeling a revolutionary reverence for death and driven to despair by the demand for total ideological orthodoxy and orthopraxy, what else could he do? The second part of my answer came from an article titled Why Do People Admit to Crimes They Didnt Commit? According to this article, almost 30 percent of people exonerated by DNA evidence originally confessed to crimes of which they were innocent. The author lays most of the blame for these false confessions on police, who are legally permitted to lie to suspects in order to extract confessions. Heres one example: [I]n 1988 Martin Tankleff was convicted of murdering his parents on Long Island. Detectives told Tankleffwho was 17 at the timethat they had found a lock of his hair in his dead mothers hand. They also falsely reported that his father said Tankleff had committed the crime before losing consciousness and later dying. Both assertions were lies. Tankleff initially believed he must have done it, saying, My father never lies. As soon as I read the line, My father never lies, I understood what Orwell was getting at. Tankleffs words, implying more trust in authorities than the truth, sound eerily similar to one of the slogans of Animal Farm: Napoleon is always right. He never lets a good crisis go to waste. If Napoleon can convince the other animals that their revolution is constantly threatened from within and without, then there is no limit to the power he can seize to protect them from these largely imaginary threats. Napoleon has trained the other animals to trust his propaganda more than their own memories. If he says there was sabotage, then there was, and if no one admits to it, then thats as much as to say that Napoleon was wrong, which is a metaphysical impossibility. Someone must confess. Its easy to imagine a long silence in which any number of animals think to themselves, I dont remember doing anything wrong but it must have been me! As Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn wrote, totalitarian regimes force ordinary people to participate in lies, and Orwell shows just where that leads: the corruption of the human soul and eventual death. Fortunately, Solzhenitsyn also offers a way to resist totalitarianism, urging his readers to acknowledge that goodness does not exist in a pure form in any human being or social class and to live by a simple creed: Let that [lie] come into the world, let it even reign supremeonly not through me. This post, How Totalitarians Force Confessions From Innocent People, by Grayson Quay was originally posted on Intellectual Takeout. Border Patrol: Illegal Immigrants Pay Thousands of Dollars to Cross the Border McAllen, TexasOn the U.S.-Mexico border, illegal immigrants are paying smugglers anywhere up to $20,000 to take them across the border and onto U.S. soil. Two main groups of illegal immigrants come across the Rio Grande in Texas: those trying to run away from Border Patrol; and those actively looking for agents, to turn themselves in. Both are paying smugglers thousands of dollars to get across the border, according to Border Patrol. There has been figures from $1,500 to all the way up to $20,000, Border Patrol agent for the Rio Grande Sector, Carlos Ruiz, told NTD News on April 18. Family units usually pay less because theyre being dropped off at the river bank and are seeking out agents. These people are charged a little bit less, from what we understand, since theyre just being dropped off and they actively look for Border Patrol, Ruiz said. So all they have to do is bring them across the river, so their charges are less, the smugglers dont have to work as much. Whereas, those trying to evade apprehension are paying more. The people who are trying to bypass Border Patrol obviously pay more because they have to work a way to get around us, he said. A group of five Mexican nationals trying to run away from Border Patrol after crossing the Rio Grande on April 18 told NTD News they paid a smuggler a $1,500 deposit to get across the river. One man said they planned to pay the rest, $5,500, after they got across. They were going to charge us $7,000. He said they were going to Houston, where they have family, to work. Another man from China interviewed by NTD News after being apprehended by Border Patrol agents on April 18 said he paid $15,000 to fly to Mexico and cross the border illegally. Dong Jin Shun, 35, was one in a group of seven Chinese nationals trying to run way from Border Patrol. Dong said he stayed in a stash house on the Mexican side of the border before coming across. He said a friend in Beijing put him in contact with a smuggler and planned to go to New York. Ruiz said the journey to enter the United States illegally includes meeting with a smuggler, also known as coyote, in Mexico. And once they meet with a coyote, theyre brought into stash houses and they are brought across as they pay. So once they pay their fees to get across the river, thats how theyre brought across. So they keep them in stash houses, usually until their fees are paid or their trip is paid and then they put them in a raft and bring them over, Ruiz said. A smuggler ferries a Guatemalan woman and her daughter across the Rio Grande on a raft from Mexico the the United States near McAllen, Texas, on April 18, 2019. (Charlotte Cuthbertson/The Epoch Times)He said the smugglers push various groupsfamily units and those trying to evade apprehensionto different locations along the border during agents shift-change. This forces Border Patrol to focus their resources on processing the large family units, while those trying to evade apprehension slip through. One of the things the smugglers know very well is our shift times. They know when we have a shift change, Ruiz said. That tied up our resources and some groups we were able to apprehend. Some unfortunately got away from us, since it was too many and we lack the personnel and the infrastructure to apprehend them. As of April 23, Border Patrol has apprehended 164,000 illegal immigrants in the Rio Grande Sector, surpassing the total apprehensions in all of the fiscal year 2018. From NTD News Former vice president Joe Biden speaks at the Biden Courage Awards in New York on March 26. (Frank Franklin II/AP Photo) Joe Biden Claims US Has Obligation to Provide Undocumented Migrants Free Healthcare Former vice president and current presidential candidate Joe Biden said during a campaign stop in California on May 8 that the United States has an obligation to give free health care to illegal aliens. Biden made the comment while responding to a reporter who asked whether law-abiding illegals should be given federal benefits. I think that anyone who is in a situation where theyre in need of health care, regardless of whether they are documented or undocumented, we have an obligation to see that they are cared for, Biden said in reply. Thats why I think we need more clinics around the country. Joe Biden says the US should provide healthcare to people regardless of whether they are documented or undocumented. pic.twitter.com/19La4DEtXK Steve Guest (@SteveGuest) May 9, 2019 Biden also challenged the notion that many illegal aliens were coming from the Southwest border, saying that the United States needs to tone down the rhetoric against illegals. By the way, a significant portion of undocumented folks in this country are there because theyve overstayed their visas, the former vice president said. Its not people breaking down gates coming across the border, so the biggest thing we got to do on this thing is just tone down the rhetoric. We know why its happening. Its to create fear and concern. But numbers from the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) illustrate a different picture. In April, CBP agents detained 109,144 migrants, which is an increase of about 5 percent from March and the highest monthly figure since 2007. This includes more than 58,000 migrant parents and children and 8,800 unaccompanied children taken into custody, according to Homeland Security figures. Additionally, in the Rio Grande Valley (RGV) Sector alone, more than 10,000 illegal aliens were apprehended this past week, making it one of the highest weekly total ever experienced in this sector, according to CBP. Moreover, over 7,000 illegal aliens are in custody at stations and processing centers. Carla Provost, chief of U.S. Customs and Border Patrol, said on May 8 during a hearing of the Senate Subcommittee on Border Security and Immigration that apprehension numbers are off the charts. We cannot address this crisis by shifting more resources. Its like holding a bucket under a faucet. It doesnt matter how many buckets we have if we cant turn off the flow, she said. In 2014, Biden, who was then-vice president, claimed that illegal aliens are already Americans during a speech to the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce in Washington. You know, 11 million people live in the shadows. I believe theyre already American citizens, Biden said, reported The Hill. These people are just waiting, waiting for a chance to contribute fully. And by that standard, 11 million undocumented aliens are already Americans, in my view. According to the Sacramento Bee, providing health care to illegal aliens has been a major policy issue in California for the past year. California Gov. Gavin Newsom has proposed expanding the current healthcare program, which already covers eligible immigrant children up to age 19 to participate in Medi-Cal regardless of immigration status, to include unauthorized young illegal aliens aged between 19 and 25. Newsoms office estimates that this would cost nearly $260 million to cover them in 2019-20. The Associated Press contributed to this report. An ultrasound image of a baby in the 18th week of pregnancy. ("Baby McBride Ultrasound 17 Weeks 6 Days (3)" by Nogwater/Flickr[CC BY-SA-2.0 (ept.ms/2utDIe9)]) Liberal College Student Arrested For Allegedly Attacking Pro-Life Activist on UNC Campus Warning: Footage Contains Violence and Graphic Language A 19-year-old student was arrested after allegedly punching a pro-life group activist at the University of North Carolina (UNC)an incident that was caught on camera. Pro-life activist Austin Beigel was at UNC on April 2 to show large signs depicting the gruesome reality of abortion, as part of a campaign hosted by pro-life group Created Equal. At one point, a female student approached him asking Did yall put these up, according to a video posted by the group. When Beigel confirmed that he did, the woman ran up toward him and could be seen swinging her fists at him. She allegedly punched him three to four times in the face and once in the stomach, according to the video. During the attack, the woman screamed: [expletive] terrible person. Youre a terrible person. You this is not okay. This is not okay. This is not okay. Shut the [expletive] up right now. This is wrong. This is triggering. Youre not an innocent human being. Youre a terrible person, the woman said. SHOCKING VIDEO: Self-Described Mental Health Advocate Charged with Assault for Violently Attacking Peaceful Pro-Life Activistpic.twitter.com/72lYaCPPxE WILL YOU HELP US STAND STRONG? YOUR GIFT ALLOWS US TO PUSH BACK AGAINST PRO-ABORTION VIOLENCE! Donate: https://t.co/y7jiwCm5fF Created Equal (@createdequalorg) May 8, 2019 The woman was identified as Jillian Ward, a pro-abortion feminist and aspiring journalist, according to Fox News. She was arrested by citation and charged with non-aggravated assault, reported the Daily Caller. It is unclear whether Ward attends the university. In a May 7 Facebook post, Beigel wrote I was recently assaulted on campus at UNC while peacefully talking to students about abortion. Violence from abortion supporters is becoming more common. I hope you pray for the heart of the young woman who attacked me,' he added. Beigel told Faithwire that he decided to ask for his friends and family to pray for the woman who attacked him because it was the attitude God has given me through his grace. Faith is everything to my responsiveness to situations, Beigel told the website. I realize that there but by the grace of God go I. And without Christs grace upon my heart, I am her I am believing those ridiculous things [about abortion]. In a statement about the incident, Created Equal President Mark Harrington said, Pro-abortion activists are losing the argument, and instead of seeking debate they are escalating the violence on peaceful preborn defenders on college campuses. We will never cave to acts of violence or intimidation. We will return hate with love for mothers and their babies, according to Beigels Facebook post. Harrington also told Fox News that he thinks the violence is part of a bigger trend on college campuses. Students being groomed on college campuses to be leaders, writers, and thinkers of the Left are increasing in censorship and violence against those with whom they disagree, Harrington said. This video comes after Pennsylvania Democratic Rep. Brian Sims filmed himself harassing a pro-life protestor for nearly nine minutes in front of a Planned Parenthood clinic, repeatedly telling her shame on you and ridiculing her Christian faith. He then came under fire again after he posted another video offering his Facebook followers $100 to dox teenage girls who were also outside the clinic in Center City, Philadelphia. Theres a group of Christians out here shaming the girls and families coming here for medical treatment! Sims said in a caption accompanying the video. So lets make the most of it! Ill donate $100 to Planned Parenthood if anyone who knows who these awful people are. Wholl join me in that $100?feeling furious at Planned Parenthood Southeastern Pennsylvania. Sims received backlash for his actions and there have been increasing calls demanding that he resigns. Leader of the Australian opposition Bill Shorten during question time at Parliament House in Canberra, Australia, on Oct. 25, 2017. (Stefan Postles/Getty Images) Liberal Treasurers Pressure Australias Opposition Leader to Come Clean on Policy Costs Three Liberal state treasurers have written to Opposition Leader Bill Shorten criticising Labors election policies. Australians face falling property prices, higher rents, potential job losses and reduced state revenue under federal Labors economic agenda, three state treasurers have declared. The treasurers of South Australia, NSW and Tasmania have written to Opposition Leader Bill Shorten calling on him to reveal what they say is the true impact of his election policies. They have also sought assurances their states would be compensated for any loss of GST revenue. Abolishing negative gearing is bad in principle & bad in practice. It was proposed at the height of the property boom, but circumstances have changed & the policy now must change. A @billshortenmp Government would mean higher taxes, more union control & a slower economy #auspol pic.twitter.com/1KLalBKRHi Dominic Perrottet (@Dom_Perrottet) May 9, 2019 Rob Lucas from South Australia, Dominic Perrottet from NSW, and Tasmanias Peter Gutwein said Labors policy to reduce access to negative gearing and to lower the capital gains tax discount had the potential to further slow the housing market, which will have significant implications for our constituents and also our local economies. The Reserve Bank has observed that the substantial softening of the housing market appears to have already had a negative economic effect on consumer spending, hampering economic growth and reducing revenue forecasts at the state and federal levels, they said in their letter. We are aware that your policies are likely to place further downward pressure on property values, directly affecting homeowners and those working in the construction industry, while also giving rise to broader negative economic consequences that threaten to undermine the jobs and living standards of all Australians. We write to seek your urgent advice on the impact of your policies on home values, rents, the construction industry, the economy, wages and jobs. State Treasurers demand answers from @billshortenmp on impact of his destructive economic policies on states pic.twitter.com/WaLRnlgcDV Rob Lucas (@Rob_Lucas) May 9, 2019 Lucas said it was time for Shorten to come clean about the true impact of his destructive economic policies. Chairman of the Council of Economic Advisers Kevin Hassett fist-bumps reporters outside the White House on May 03, 2019, in Washington. Hassett answered questions about Friday's positive jobs numbers, where the U.S. economy added 263,000 jobs and the unemployment rate fell to 3.6% in April. Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images Liberty and the Indissoluble Union Between Virtue and Happiness Commentary The jobs report for the month of April demonstrates that the U.S. economy is doing really wellin fact, its amazing. Unemployment is at a 50-year low, and private-sector wages are up 3.2 percent from just a year ago. Those are impressive numbers. Nevertheless, with a Republican in the White House, Democrats are forced to preach doom and gloom, and complain that things have never been worse, at least until 2020. For example, failed gubernatorial candidate for Georgia, Stacey Abrams, said in her response to President Donald Trumps State of the Union address, Under the current administration, far too many hard-working Americans are falling behind, living paycheck to paycheck. And she repeated House Speaker Nancy Pelosis (D-Calif.) mantra that the Republican tax bill rigged the system against working people. Such fake news is always corrosive to politicsno matter who is peddling itbut the Democrats recent embrace of policies such as Medicare for All and canceling student loan debt threaten our very capacity for self-government. There are circumstances in which recourse to policies such as these might be prudent. But those circumstances are not even on the horizon right now. And such sweeping policies not only make our whole economy more dependent on the government, but they also ensure that generations who come after us are less capable of maintaining the degree of self-reliance necessary for exercising self-government. When our economy is objectively strongas it is right nowwe would be wise to relearn the virtues of industry and frugality, to use our prosperity to increase our capacity for self-government, not undermine it by increasing our dependence on government. The American Founders on Virtue and Happiness The ultimate goal we seek individually and collectively is happiness. The Father of our country, George Washington, set forth in his first inaugural address his hope that the foundations of our National policy will be laid in the pure and immutable principles of private morality. Washington based this hope on his belief that there is no truth more thoroughly established, than that there exists in the economy and course of nature, an indissoluble union between virtue and happiness. In this country, which respects religious liberty, the founders understood that people would have various religious motives for practicing private morality. They also believed, though, that citizens could find common ground to practice certain virtues because they believed it was self-evident that those virtues would generally produce earthly happiness and render people fit for self-government by making them self-reliant. In Poor Richards Almanac, Benjamin Franklin urged his readers to avoid economic dependence. Disdain the chain, he wrote, preserve your freedom, and maintain your independency. His teaching was simple: be industrious and free; be frugal and free. Franklin believed the virtues of industry and frugality are generally necessary for building a foundation for a successful pursuit of happiness. My wife and I recently converted the abstract notion of our current student loan debt into a physical chain of paper links. After every payment, we say a prayer of gratitude to God and tear away a link. We are learning to disdain the chain and maintain our independence, and we find the progress thrilling. The Lefts Attacks on Virtue and Happiness Knowingly or not, certain efforts by the political left effectively undermine our capacity for self-government by corrupting the connection between virtue and happiness and by seeking to redefine what it means to be free. I dont remember hearing much about privilege while I was growing up, but now, I hear the word all the time. The political context in which people use the word privilege often connotes some kind of undeserved or even unjust gain. The message is clear: It doesnt matter if you earned your rewards through hard work and sacrifice; if youre a member of a privileged group, you dont deserve to enjoy those rewards. In effect, this attack on all forms of privilegearbitrarily assigned, of courseseeks to corrupt the indissoluble union between virtue and happiness that Washington praised, for it denies to those who have justly earned certain privileges the right to enjoy them. Furthermore, policies such as Sen. Elizabeth Warrens (D-Mass.) proposal to cancel substantial portions of the student loans owed to the federal government subtly reshape how we understand freedom. Her plan will only be successful if she can convince voters44.7 million of whom have student debtthat because the system is rigged against students, they should not in truth be obligated to pay their debts. The federal governments involvement in student loans has obvious faults, but canceling the debt wont fix them. The founders believed that happiness depends on maintaining a degree of self-government, and self-government depends on exercising private virtue and responsibility. They understood the combination of these three things as liberty. But Warrens planlike many other products of the welfare stateseeks to infantilize citizens by relieving them of the responsibility that alone provides them the opportunity to dignify their choices. Liberty is thus conflated with license, and self-government is exchanged for dependence. In such a state, we may experience pleasure from time to time, butif Washington is rightnature will keep happiness beyond our grasp. The American founders understood that practicing private virtues like industry and frugality frees us from dependence and makes us into citizens capable of self-government. Such self-reliance allows us to enjoy the liberty this country provides to those who work to attain it. This opportunitynot some gaudy, wealthy lifestyleis the real American dream. Clifford Humphrey is originally from Warm Springs, Georgia. Currently, he is a doctoral candidate in politics at Hillsdale College in Michigan. Follow him on Twitter @cphumphrey. Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times. Mayor Bans Circuses in Russia The mayor of a city in southern Russia has banned circuses, saying they exploit animals. Circuses are the cruelest form of animal exploitation, where they are kept in abnormal conditions. No spectacle that uses any type of animals will ever be allowed in Magas, said Beslan Tsechoyev, the mayor of Magas, according to the BBC. Tsechoyev canceled a top circus performance scheduled to happen in his citys central Alania Square on May 6. The news was quickly picked up by the mainstream media in Russia as circuses are popular and have a long history in the country. Circuses are considered art as rich as the ballet or opera in Russia. When the communist regime collapsed in the 1960s, there were 50 traveling circus companies and about 50 buildings dedicated to it, according to Euro Channel. Tsechoyev was careful in explaining why he canceled the circus performance and said theres a difference between acrobatic displays conducted in the animals natural habitat and training to perform tricks in the circus. He said the circus training is turning them [animals] into prisoners. The mayor said a person can enjoy killing and exploiting animals and feel powerful but it is not ethical. The circus is the cruelest form of animal exploitation, where they are deprived of all normal conditions. Moreover, when we bring our children to the circus, we show the very attitude that is strictly forbidden to animals, namely cruelty and inhumanity, Tsechoyev said, according to Rossiyskaya Gazeta, a newspaper owned by the Russian government. In children, first of all, you need to cultivate a feeling of love, compassion, and kindness towards animals, he said. Hutches For Squirrels Last year Tsechoyev arranged red squirrel hutches, heated kennels for stray dogs and cats, and drinking bowls and pools for them to remain cool in summer months around the city, the TASS News Agency reported, according to the BBC. The mayor shared a picture of the special heated houses for stray cats on his Instagram and said: The first tenants were such cute creatures who were very comfortable and safe in the house. Animals can not take care of themselves, so taking care of them is the mans business. And our duty is to protect them. He also didnt allow a dolphinarium in Magas. Beluga Whale from a Russian Facility Enters Norway A beluga whale allegedly from a Russian military facility has mysteriously appeared on the coast of Norway. While marine experts hope that it will swim away to where it came from, it has so far refused to leave. The last days the whale has still been observed in the same area. Hopefully, it will swim away further north in the Arctic where it belongs and join a pod of white whales, Jorgen Ree Wiig, a marine expert and an inspector for the Norwegian Directorate of Fisheries, said in a statement. A few fishermen saw the beluga whale and sent pictures to Norways Institute of Marine Research. These photos were shared with three inspectors sailing on board a Sea Surveillance Service patrol vessel. To our surprise, we saw that the whale had a harness around his body clearly put there on purpose, said Wiig. The team arrived with its disentangling gear and lured the whale with a cod filet. The whale was totally habituated to humans and we could touch it, he said. The team had to work together to free the whale from the harness. Wiig told ABC News that it is very unlikely for the whale to have been trained by the Russian military. Maybe [he] was trained to recover things people lose in the sea, as he is always looking for a boat to come close to, Wiig said. Since being freed from its harness, the whale has moved only 30 nautical miles and Wiig said that they are looking for the best solution for the young adults survival. John E. Cash, 25, was last seen in Norfolk, Va., on May 6, 2019. (Courtesy of Norfolk Police Department) Missing Schizophrenic John Cash Found Nude in Virginia River Authorities have found a naked body belonging to a Virginia man who was reported missing on May 6. Norfolk Police Department confirmed it identified a body, which officers found floating in the Lafayette River in the Talbot Park neighborhood on May 7, as John E. Cash. #BREAKING Body pulled from Lafayette River in Norfolk IDd as missing 25-year-old man John E. Cash, police say. https://t.co/Za90zDoVGY WAVY TV 10 (@WAVY_News) May 8, 2019 Mans body pulled from Norfolks Lafayette River (Via WAVY TV 10) https://t.co/32S7EsbaBH Tom Schaad (@TomWAVYTV) May 8, 2019 Cash, 25, was last seen the day before about 8 p.m. when he left his Norfolk home near Granby and Thole streets wearing no clothes at all. He was previously diagnosed with schizophrenia and requires medication. Norfolk police and fire-rescue responded and recovered the body from the water, police said in a public statement. Tuesday night, police confirmed that the body recovered was Cash. No foul play is suspected. #NPDNews. Sad news Detectives confirm body recovered from Lafayette River belongs to missing Norfolk man John E. Cash who had been missing since Monday evening. Read more at https://t.co/iKJ1VyPHXX pic.twitter.com/qsq2ozn1Dj Norfolk Police Dept (@NorfolkPD) May 8, 2019 The man who was reported missing since Monday night was identified as the man found in the Lafayette River Tuesday night. https://t.co/7ZYl1YnsZx Robyn Sidersky (@robynsidersky) May 8, 2019 The grisly find came after a concerned citizen phoned police dispatchers just before 5:30 p.m. local time to report a mans body floating just off the shore near the 7,000 block of Mallard Drive. Norfolk police and fire-rescue responded and recovered the body from the water, police said in an earlier public statement. The mans body will be taken to the Medical Examiners Office to identify the man and determine how he died. A caller told dispatchers they saw the body floating just off shore the Lafayette River in Talbot Park near the 7000 block of Mallard Drive just before 5:30 p.m. Tuesday. https://t.co/0GL80qZn9P WGNT CW 27 (@WGNTCW27) May 8, 2019 #NPDNews. Mans body recovered from Lafayette River prompts undetermined death investigation. Read more at https://t.co/5HAdEyC5gZ pic.twitter.com/yBICbdVPwa Norfolk Police Dept (@NorfolkPD) May 7, 2019 Norfolk police find body in Lafayette River https://t.co/KRDwUzbjzi 13News Now (@13NewsNow) May 8, 2019 Norfolk detectives described Cash as measuring 6 feet tall, weighing 190 pounds, having short black hair, brown eyes, and a thin goatee. He has a gladiator/spartan tattoo on the right side of his chest and a surgical scar on his left knee, police said in a public statement. Dallas, May 09, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- DALLAS, TEXAS . . May 9, 2019. Valhi, Inc. (NYSE: VHI) reported net income from continuing operations attributable to Valhi stockholders of $18.2 million, or $.05 per diluted share, in the first quarter of 2019 compared to $51.7 million, or $.15 per diluted share, in the first quarter of 2018. Net income from continuing operations attributable to Valhi stockholders decreased primarily due to lower operating results in the Companys Chemicals Segment in 2019. The Chemicals Segments net sales of $436.5 million in the first quarter of 2019 were $6.1 million, or 1%, higher than in the first quarter of 2018. The Chemicals Segments net sales increased in the first quarter of 2019 as compared to the same period in 2018 due to the net effect of lower average TiO 2 selling prices and higher sales volumes. The Chemicals Segments average TiO 2 selling prices were 8% lower in the first quarter of 2019 as compared to the first quarter of 2018. The Chemicals Segments average TiO 2 selling prices at the end of the first quarter of 2019 were 4% lower than at the end of 2018 with lower prices in the European, North American and Latin American markets, partially offset by higher prices in the export market. TiO 2 sales volumes in the first quarter of 2019 were 15% higher as compared to the first quarter sales volumes of 2018 due to higher sales in all major markets. Fluctuations in currency exchange rates (primarily the euro) also affected net sales comparisons, decreasing net sales by approximately $15 million in the first quarter of 2019 as compared to the first quarter of 2018. The table at the end of this press release shows how each of these items impacted net sales. The Chemicals Segments operating income in the first quarter of 2019 was $52.8 million as compared to $110.6 million in the first quarter of 2018. The Chemicals Segments operating income decreased in the first quarter of 2019 as the unfavorable effect of lower average TiO 2 selling prices and higher raw materials (primarily third-party feedstock ore) and other production costs more than offset the favorable impact of higher sales and production volumes. The Chemicals Segments TiO 2 production volumes were 1% higher in the first quarter of 2019 as compared to the first quarter of 2018. The Chemicals Segment operated its production facilities at average practical capacity utilization rates of 95% and 97% in the first quarter of 2018 and 2019, respectively. Fluctuations in currency exchange rates also affected segment profit comparisons, which increased operating income by approximately $8 million in the first quarter of 2019 as compared to the first quarter of 2018. The Component Products Segments net sales in the first quarter of 2019 increased as compared to 2018 primarily due to higher marine component sales, primarily surf pipes and wake enhancement systems to an original equipment boat manufacturer and to a lesser extent higher security products sales volumes to existing government security customers. The Component Products Segments operating income was comparable in the first quarter of 2019 and the same period of 2018 as the benefit of higher sales was offset by increased labor rates and medical costs at security products reporting unit as well as a less favorable customer and product mix at marine components reporting unit. The Real Estate Management and Development Segment had first quarter 2019 sales of $11.9 million, including $9.5 million in revenue on sales of land held for development, compared to the first quarter of 2018 sales of $7.2 million, including $5.8 million in sales of land held for development. The Real Estate Management and Development Segment had operating income of $3.2 million in the first quarter of 2019 compared to $3.8 million in the first quarter of 2018. Land sales revenue is generally recognized over time based on costs inputs, and land sales revenues are dependent on spending for development activities as we balance development requirements with home builder outputs during the year. Land sales revenues are also impacted by the relative timing of when new land parcel sales are closed. Operating income also includes $1.1 million in the first quarter in 2019 and $3.1 million in the first quarter of 2018 of income related to the recognition of tax increment reimbursement note receivables. Corporate expenses decreased to $7.9 million in the first quarter of 2019 compared to $14.0 million in the first quarter of 2018 primarily due to lower environmental remediation and related costs and litigation and related costs in 2019 compared to 2018. In the first quarter of 2018 we sold two parcels of land not used in our operating activities for an aggregate pre-tax gain of $12.5 million ($9.6 million, or $.03 per diluted share, net of income taxes and noncontrolling interest). As previously reported, on January 26, 2018 we sold our Waste Management Segment, the results of operations of which have been reclassified to discontinued operations for all periods presented. Discontinued operations in the first quarter of 2018 consists principally of a pre-tax gain on the disposal of this Segment of $58.4 million ($38.2 million, or $.11 per diluted share, net of income taxes). The statements in this press release relating to matters that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements that represent management's beliefs and assumptions based on currently available information. Although the Company believes the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, it cannot give any assurances that these expectations will be correct. Such statements by their nature involve substantial risks and uncertainties that could significantly impact expected results, and actual future results could differ materially from those predicted. While it is not possible to identify all factors, the Company continues to face many risks and uncertainties. Among the factors that could cause our actual future results to differ materially include, but are not limited to, the following: Future supply and demand for our products; The extent of the dependence of certain of our businesses on certain market sectors; The cyclicality of certain of our businesses (such as Kronos TiO 2 operations); operations); Customer and producer inventory levels; Unexpected or earlier-than-expected industry capacity expansion (such as the TiO 2 industry); industry); Changes in raw material and other operating costs (such as ore, zinc, brass, steel and energy costs) and our ability to pass those costs on to our customers or offset them with reductions in other operating costs; Changes in the availability of raw materials (such as ore); General global economic and political conditions (such as changes in the level of gross domestic product in various regions of the world and the impact of such changes on demand for, among other things, TiO 2 and component products); and component products); Competitive products and prices and substitute products, including increased competition from low-cost manufacturing sources (such as China); Possible disruption of our business or increases in the cost of doing business resulting from terrorist activities or global conflicts; Customer and competitor strategies; Potential difficulties in integrating future acquisitions; Potential difficulties in upgrading or implementing accounting and manufacturing software systems (such as the Chemicals Segments new enterprise resource planning system); Potential consolidation of our competitors; Potential consolidation of our customers; The impact of pricing and production decisions; Competitive technology positions; Our ability to protect or defend intellectual property rights; The introduction of trade barriers; The ability of our subsidiaries to pay us dividends; The impact of current or future government regulations (including employee healthcare benefit related regulations); Uncertainties associated with new product development and the development of new product features; Fluctuations in currency exchange rates (such as changes in the exchange rate between the U.S. dollar and each of the euro, the Norwegian krone and the Canadian dollar) or possible disruptions to our business resulting from potential instability resulting from uncertainties associated with the euro or other currencies; Operating interruptions (including, but not limited to, labor disputes, leaks, natural disasters, fires, explosions, unscheduled or unplanned downtime, transportation interruptions and cyber attacks); Decisions to sell operating assets other than in the ordinary course of business; The timing and amounts of insurance recoveries; Our ability to renew, amend, refinance or establish credit facilities; Our ability to maintain sufficient liquidity; The ultimate outcome of income tax audits, tax settlement initiatives or other tax matters, including future tax reform; Our ultimate ability to utilize income tax attributes, the benefits of which may or may not presently have been recognized under the more-likely-than-not recognition criteria; Environmental matters (such as those requiring compliance with emission and discharge standards for existing and new facilities, or new developments regarding environmental remediation at sites related to our former operations); Government laws and regulations and possible changes therein (such as changes in government regulations which might impose various obligations on former manufacturers of lead pigment and lead-based paint, including NL, with respect to asserted health concerns associated with the use of such products) including new environmental health and safety regulations; The ultimate resolution of pending litigation (such as NLs lead pigment litigation, environmental and other litigation); Our ability to comply with covenants contained in our revolving bank credit facilities; Our ability to complete and comply with the conditions of our licenses and permits; Changes in real estate values and construction costs in Henderson, Nevada; Water levels in Lake Mead; and Possible future litigation. Should one or more of these risks materialize (or the consequences of such development worsen), or should the underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results could differ materially from those currently forecasted or expected. We disclaim any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement whether as a result of changes in information, future events or otherwise. Valhi, Inc. is engaged in the titanium dioxide pigments, component products (security products and high performance marine components), and real estate management and development industries. * * * * * VALHI, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES CONDENSED SUMMARY OF INCOME (In millions, except earnings per share) Three months ended March 31, 2018 2019 Net sales (unaudited) Chemicals $ 430.4 $ 436.5 Component products 28.4 31.2 Real estate management and development 7.2 11.9 Total net sales $ 466.0 $ 479.6 Operating income Chemicals $ 110.6 $ 52.8 Component products 4.4 4.4 Real estate management and development 3.8 3.2 Total operating income 118.8 60.4 General corporate items: Securities earnings 8.3 3.1 Insurance recoveries .2 .3 Gain on land sales 12.5 - Changes in market value of Valhi common stock held by subsidiaries (.3 ) 1.1 Other components of net periodic pension and OPEB expense (3.7 ) (4.1 ) General expenses, net (14.0 ) (7.9 ) Interest expense (15.4 ) (10.3 ) Income from continuing operations before income taxes 106.4 42.6 Income tax expense 36.2 14.2 Net income from continuing operations 70.2 28.4 Income from discontinued operations 37.6 - Net income 107.8 28.4 Noncontrolling interest in net income of subsidiaries 18.5 10.2 Net income attributable to Valhi stockholders $ 89.3 $ 18.2 VALHI, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES CONDENSED SUMMARY OF INCOME (Continued) (In millions, except earnings per share) Three months ended March 31, 2018 2019 (unaudited) Amounts attributable to Valhi stockholders: Income from continuing operations $ 51.7 $ 18.2 Income from discontinued operations 37.6 - Net income attributable to Valhi stockholders $ 89.3 $ 18.2 Basic and diluted net income per share Income from continuing operations $ .15 $ .05 Income from discontinued operations .11 - Net income attributable to Valhi stockholders $ .26 $ .05 Basic and diluted weighted average shares outstanding 342.0 342.0 Mother Allegedly Killed by 9-Year-Old Son Worried That She Was Raising the Next Serial Killer The mother who was allegedly shot dead by her 9-year-old son was reportedly worried that she was raising the next serial killer, according to a family member. Pauline Randol, 51, was shot dead on May 6 at a home in Fawn River Township in Michigan. According to court records, she was shot with a rifle and her body was found in the living room, reported 24 Hour News 8. Her young son, who has not been named due to his age, was charged with murder the following day. He is currently undergoing a psychiatric evaluation at a state-run juvenile facility, according to the news outlet. Authorities have not released details about the circumstances of the killing. Randols grieving daughter, Harley Martin, said her brother, who was adopted from Indiana about two years ago, came from a troubled situation where his biological mother was using drugs during her pregnancy. She added that the boy has a history of mental health problems and that her mother was worried that he would start hurting people. She had told her doctor one time she was so scared she was raising the next serial killer, Martin told the news website. But nobody expected the boy to hurt Randol. Martin said although she has revealed her mothers concerns, she wants people to know her brother is not a bad kid. He loved his mom. I dont want people to think he did not love his mom, Martin said. She added that her brother is still confused about whats is happening, even asking where his mother is. He doesnt know what he did. He doesnt understand whats going on right now at all, she added. He doesnt understand why he cant come home or anything. Another daughter, Reagan Martin, told The Detroit News that her adopted brother is a sweet, caring young man who needed help further than the help my mother gave him, and she tried. Reagan said her mother had been trying to get help for her brother but was having issues. She said her mother tried to reach out to Community Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services of St. Joseph County in Centreville, but their fathers insurance did not cover the appointments, reported the news website. She eventually got an appointment where she had to spend money out [of her] pocket, but that was supposed to be for Tuesday, and it was too late, Reagan said. Martin described her mother as an amazing woman who would stop anything on a dime to help anybody, reported 24 Hour News 8. The boys attorney, T.J. Reed, told 24 Hour News 8 in a statement that they would not comment on the specifics of the care but warned people to not pre-judge this child based on partial or unknown facts. Based on the severity of the charges and the age of the accused it is important to keep focused of the future and long term impact these proceedings and charges may have on a child of this age, the statement read. Judy Sgro, a Liberal MP and former cabinet minister, speaks at an event celebrating Falun Dafa Day on Parliament Hill, Ottawa, on May 8, 2019. (Evan Ning/The Epoch Times) MPs Voice Support as Hundreds Mark Falun Dafa Day in Ottawa Twenty-seven years ago, a Chinese meditation discipline with an ancient lineage was made public and spread to every corner of China, attracting between 70 million and 100 million adherents within just a few years. This week in Ottawa and other cities in Canada and around the world, those who have benefited from the practice, known both as Falun Dafa and Falun Gong, held celebrations and rallies to mark the anniversary of its introduction to the public in 1992. When I look out and always see the words truth, compassion, and tolerance, I thank each and every one of you [Falun Dafa adherents] for what you are bringing to Canada, by promoting the very values that make a country strong, said Liberal MP and former cabinet minister Judy Sgro at a rally in Ottawa on May 8, referring to the tenets of Falun Dafa. Because those are very much the very three words that I believe all of us as parliamentarians believe in, promote, and want to see all Canadians participating in and focusing on. With Falun Dafa adherents in over 100 countries around the world celebrating the occasion, Sgro said the introduction of the practice marks a historic milestone. Please know that there are many of us within the Liberal Party of Canada, there are many Canadians, who support your endeavours to promote the very values that I believe make Canada so special, added Sgro, who is co-chair of Parliamentary Friends of Falun Gong, an all-party group of supporters that includes both MPs and senators. The rally, which took place on Parliament Hill, was attended by a host of other elected officials and human rights activists as well as hundreds of Falun Dafa practitioners and supporters. Conservative MP and former cabinet minister Peter Kent said that besides celebrating Falun Dafa Day, which falls on May 13, the timing of the rally marked a number of other meaningful, if somewhat sad anniversaries. He recalled that 30 years ago, thousands of young pro-democracy students started gathering on Tiananmen Square to demand greater freedoms, only to be met with bullets a month later on June 4, 1989, resulting in thousands of casualties. Last month also marked the 20th anniversary of a peaceful appeal in Beijing where some 10,000 Falun Dafa adherents gathered silently to demand the right to practise their belief free of harassment by authorities. We know that mere months after April 25, [1999], the regime cracked down and began two decades of persecution, extra-judicial detentions and arrests, phony trials, forced confessions, torture, murder, and organ removal, Kent said. On July 20, 1999, then-Chinese leader Jiang Zemin, fearing that Falun Dafas widespread popularity would rival peoples devotion to the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), launched a widespread persecution campaign against the practice. A few years later, Canadian investigators confirmed that the Chinese regimes abuse against Falun Dafa adherents includes state-sanctioned organ removal from living prisoners of consciencewho die in the processto sell in a multi-billion-dollar industry. Its important that we stand here today to remind not only the government of Chinaas Im sure agents of the [Chinese] Embassy are watching us from various points around this square as they do every yearto demand those basic freedoms of association, of religion, of speech, and the right to enjoy these freedoms, Kent said. Tremendous Courage Conservative MP Scott Reid, who in the early 2000s helped to secure the release of a number of Falun Dafa adherents with Canadian connections who were imprisoned in China, said practitioners play an important part in the well-being of China. According to Reid, the CCP sees Chinas role in the world as primarily a power mission, one that is bent on exploiting other nations. But that ought not to be Chinas role. Chinas role, as the worlds longest-surviving civilization and most populous country, is to teach so many lessons to so many people across the world, he said. And nobody represents the best qualities of this magnificent and ancient culture, of this wonderfully civilizing culture, than do the practitioners of Falun Gong. Reid said the role that Falun Dafa adherents play in China cannot be overstated, as they are turning China into what it ought to be for the benefit of all humanity. I can only say I stand in awe of the tremendous courage in the service of truthfulness, compassion, and forbearance that is being demonstrated by so many millions of Falun Gong practitioners, he said. Liberal MP Robert-Falcon Ouellette, who greeted the crowd in Chinese, thanked the Falun Dafa practitioners gathered on the Hill for their adherence to the ideas of compassion, truth, and forbearance and their healthy ways of maintaining mental and physical well-being. These are Canadian values, they are ones based on human rights, they are ones based in our Constitution about looking after each other, and this is extremely important, Ouellette said. Organ Trafficking Legislation Longtime Liberal MP Borys Wrzesnewskyj said he is among several legislators who have introduced bills in Parliament over the years to combat international organ trafficking. This time, he said, he hopes the 42nd Parliament makes it its legacy to pass Bill S-240, which was initiated by Sen. Salma Ataullahjan in the Senate and by Conservative MP Garnett Genuis in the House of Commons. Falun Gong practitioners guide themselves by the values of truthfulness, compassion, and forbearance, but theres also another value that [they] clearly demonstrate, and thats perseverance, he said, referring to the adherents years of resisting Beijings persecution campaign. I hope that this will be a legacy of the 42nd Parliament in Canada, and Canada will be at the forefront internationally to put an end to this horrific, cannibalistic industry, whether for personal profit or for state profit as occurs in China. David Bhatti, an aid for Genuiswho was unable to attend the event due to a family emergencysaid it is their hope that Bill S-240 will be approved by the Senate within this Parliament so it can be passed into legislation. Liberal MP Nathaniel Erskine-Smith said he also supports the billwhich enjoys the support of all partiesand will continue to stand up for human rights. I work very closely with local community members from Falun Dafa to raise human rights concerns and I will continue to do so, he said. Magnitsky Law Conservative MP David Anderson said it has been his privilege to stand beside Falun Dafa adherents to fight for basic freedoms in China. In honour of Falun Dafa Month, we stand with the Falun Gong practitioners and oppose the Chinese governments increasing persecution of religious minorities, Anderson said. Fellow Conservative MP James Bezan said that as Falun Dafa adherents gather to mark the occasion, its important to remember those who are being persecuted back in China. You have found a home here in Canada, he said to the adherents in attendance. We embrace you. But at the same time, we have to hold those to account back in China who are persecuting the practitioners because of their beliefs. Bezan, who was one of the champions of Canada getting a Magnitsky Law, said that the law can be used to ensure those responsible for the persecution in China can never enter Canada and cant have any assets or business transactions in Canada. Working together, we will stand up for the truth, he said. Resilience and Determination Former MP and secretary of state for Asia Pacific David Kilgour, who was among the earliest investigators of forced organ harvesting of Falun Dafa prisoners of conscience in China, said he thinks if more people had stepped forward to speak out against the atrocities against Falun Dafa adherents in earlier years, the same crimes wouldnt be perpetrated against other minorities in China now on a large scale. Maybe whats happening to the Uighur community wouldnt be happening to them, and it would have stopped happening a long time ago, he said. Kilgour, who comes to the Falun Dafa Day event on Parliament Hill every year, said he thought this years turnout was the biggest. I think were going to win this battle, and I think were going to win it quite quickly, he said. Alex Neve, secretary general of Amnesty International Canada, said he found it incredible that no matter how cruel and relentless the abuse against Falun Dafa adherents is, they do not waver in their conviction and beliefs. I very much wanted to pay tribute to the incredible strength and resilience and determination that I have always been so impressed by in all of the Falun Dafa practitioners and their families, he said. And Im here as well because I certainly once again want you to know that Amnesty International joins you in demanding, in insisting, that the crackdown end, and the crackdown must end now. Neve noted that among the incarcerated and persecuted adherents are some with Canadian links, such as Vancouver resident Sun Qian and those who are family members of Canadian citizens or permanent residents, and called for their release. Albert Lin, a former Taiwanese legislator and a former professor at Ryerson University, said the Chinese regime is extremely inhumane, and everyone has to work to ensure human rights are upheld in China. We are all on the same boat against this particular regime, Lin said. We have to work together. Human rights activist Aileen Calverley said its very important for Canada to pass Bill S-240 on organ trafficking so it can take a leading role on this issue. As a country who sees human rights as the most important issue in our nation, we must lead, Calverley said. If there are any upsides to the lockdown conditions of the COVID-19 pandemic, the chance to adopt a siesta culture has to be counted among them. North Americans take a grim pride in not getting enough sleep, but in our pursuit of productivity, we may be sacrificing our best selves. Research suggests staying awake to get more done is a false economy. Sleep can seem like a waste of time when you have things to get done, but sleep science finds the opposite to be true. Those who cheat on sleep also undermine their productivity. The findings of a 2019 study published in the Journal of the National Sleep Foundation strongly suggest that even slightly shortening your sleep routine during the workweek interferes with job performance. Researchers from the University of South Florida, Pennsylvania State University, Harvard Medical School, and others contributed to the study. It found that those who sacrifice as little as 16 minutes of sleep a night are more likely to be distracted and use poor judgment during their workday. Some companies have taken sleep research to heart. Ben and Jerrys, Cisco, and other companies have policies that encourage employees to nap. Some offer nap rooms. Tech giants provide weary workers with nap pods, some complete with a zero-gravity bed, soothing music, and a sleep-inducing light show. One online shoe retailer provides massage chairs that sit under an arching overhead fishtank that immerses them in an underwater vista when they recline. But for most people, taking a nap in the middle of the workday is just not an option. Or at least that was the case when we were all reporting to the office or job site. For those now working from home, this may be the perfect chance to experiment with an afternoon nap. If we do, we might find this apparent luxury transforms our afternoons. According to Jamie Gruman, a business professor and senior research fellow at the University of Guelph in Ontario, Canada, productivity and work quality can improve when we nap. In his book, Boost: The Science of Recharging Yourself in an Age of Unrelenting Demands, Gruman devotes an entire chapter to the restorative power of sleep. While he was writing, he came across a wealth of research showing that naps can improve vigilance, math skills, and logical reasoning. Naps can also make people more alert and improve their reaction time. There is evidence for this. Its not just somebodys idea, Gruman said. It solidified in my mind that sleeping on the job is a good thing to do. Gruman is careful not to directly encourage individuals to sleep at work, because they still run a real risk of getting fired in workplaces that havent yet caught on to the value of naps. But hes found that many workers already do it on the sly. That gets all the easier with many of us now telecommuting. When Gruman gives a presentation, he often asks for a show of hands to identify the nappers in the room. Few if any hands are raised in public, but people always confess their nap habit later in private. People confide in me all the time that they sleep at work. They will come up to me and say, I dont want anyone to know but I sleep on the job, Gruman said. Usually at around two oclock or so people get fatigued and they want to take a nap. And if they do, theyre going to get better at what they do. Napping Is Natural Nobody disputes our need for a nightly sleep. But for many people, sleeping for a short period during the day has an ugly stigma attached to it. It reeks of laziness and indulgencean activity reserved exclusively for babies, the ill, and the elderly. But this stigma is found only in the modern Western world. Look at many older cultures, and youll find that napping is a common practice very much in line with the rhythm of a day. Dr. Alon Avidan, a neurology professor at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, and director of UCLAs Sleep Disorders Center says napping is a natural response to that dip in alertness that typically occurs a few hours after lunch. In other cultures, napping is socially acceptable. It has been a strategy to get rid of that temporary sensation of fatigue and sleepiness, Avidan said. If you go to Spain, Italy, and Portugal in the early afternoon, youre lucky to find a shop open. Here in the U.S., of course, we have abandoned that idea and instead rely on working through using a cup of coffee. Even in Japan, a country known for its strong work ethic and company devotion, naps get social respect. According to Alexandra Kenny from information website Tourist Japan, napping is a common practice and a part of daily life. Kenny says that in Japan, it is common to see people snoozing in cafes, on the train, in shops, and even in offices. The practice is known as inemuri, which means sleeping on duty. Inemuri is even encouraged in some workplaces because it allows workers time to restore their focus while on the job. In fact, taking a nap is often a symbol of the success of a hard worker who is entitled to the rest, Kenny said. It is part of the work/life balance in Japan. In turn, the workforce is more productive, efficient, and ultimately happier. According to certified pediatric sleep consultant Riki Taubenblat, we are biologically wired to want an afternoon nap. Its just that our culture pushes stimulants rather than sleep to get over that midday slump. In reality, theyd be much better served with a short nap. Naps can improve mental focus, emotional state, and physical health, said Taubenblat. Its clear that sleep, in general, is essential for health, but there is also evidence that nappers may be healthier than non-nappers. Taubenblat points to a Harvard University study that tracked more than 23,000 Greek men and women. This was in the 1990s, as parts of Greece started pulling away from the traditional siesta culture to embrace the no-nap rhythm of the modern world. Over the course of six years, researchers found that those who had abandoned their afternoon slumber showed a significantly higher risk of heart disease compared to those who still took regular naps. Naps may also influence the length of our lives. On the Greek island of Ikaria, where the culture is still siesta-oriented, men are found to be four times more likely to live to the age of 90 than men from the United States. Taubenblat believes a big reason why people have negative feelings toward naps is that their culture doesnt respect sleep. We live in a society where you get credit for bragging that you only slept four hours last night. Nobody pats you on the back for getting eight or nine, she said. Gruman thinks this sense of toughness via sleep deprivation stems from a notion that the ideal worker is one who can best emulate a machine. You get the most out of your machinery if you run it 24/7, because your variable costs are reduced and its more efficient. So we have this idea that we have to be driving people like machines, 24/7, he said. But thats an ignorant way to think about people, because were not allowing them to work in conjunction with the natural process of being human. Strategizing Your Sleep One way to conserve your energy is simply by taking a break. Going for a walk, listening to some music, or just taking a few moments to clear your head can all help give your mind a rest so that it can better handle the next few hours on the job. But Avidan says nothing replenishes the body like sleep. Think of it like an electric car. Even if you sit it idle and let it rest, it doesnt expend any energy. But if you plug it in, its going to allow the current to recharge, Avidan said. Thats what were doing when were asleep. Were allowing the brain to refuel and recharge in a way that no other state would allow. To get the most out of your nap, however, you have to use this power strategically. Sleep for too long, or too late in the afternoon, and you may run the risk of insomniaand reduce the amount of sleep you get at night. If an individual takes a nap at 5, 6, 7, or 8 in the evening, it can impair the ability to fall asleep at night, because they have partially restored their sleepiness, so the sleep drive at night is not going to be as strong, Avidan said. According to Avidan, the ideal nap takes place within our natural, post-lunch energy dipgenerally a 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. window. As for duration, we have two choices: a 20-minute power nap to relieve drowsiness, or a 45-minute to one-hour nap to fully restore cognitive function. Beyond that, we run the risk of waking up more groggy as we go through deeper stages of sleep, and we dont get the most from the strategic nature of the nap, Avidan said. Perhaps if sleep research was better publicized, it would help erase some of the cultural stigmas we hold about napping. But Gruman says this knowledge alone will not be enough. He says it will take a few more steps for the corporate culture to fully embrace sleeping on the job. The way you get it implemented, and this is key, is you have to have the senior people in the organization modeling the behavior, he said. You could set up nap rooms and buy expensive nap pods, and implement HR policies that approve it. But until they see the executive team occasionally taking naps, employees are going to be leery. Of course, everyones sleep needs vary. Some do better with a daily power nap, while others only need one every once in a while. Gruman says he only naps about once or twice a month on average. But that quick recharge makes a big difference in the quality of his work when hes hit by midday fatigue. After 15 minutes, Im back to my best, and thoughts that werent coming to me previously now come to me. Ideas and arguments that I couldnt make previously I can now make with ease, he said. Its really a dramatic difference. Gruman knows hes lucky. Since much of his work is done from home, he has the luxury of organizing his schedule to fit his own needs. But he argues that if the modern workplace also adopts a rhythm more in line with the human body, we will all be better off. Its about respecting your body and mind, and working in harmony with the signals that youre being given and not suppressing them or denying them, he said. There are times we have to show were tough, but on a day-to-day basis, we dont have to do that. We should embrace our intuitive sidethe one thats more in tune with the cycles of nature. Then we would, in fact, be more effective. (L-R): Johnny Bobbitt, Kate McClures boyfriend Mark DAmico, and Kate McClure pose at a Citgo station in Philadelphia. (Elizabeth Robertson/The Philadelphia Inquirer via AP) New Jersey Man Indicted in GoFundMe Good Samaritan Scam A New Jersey man has been indicted on multiple charges after being accused of conspiring to defraud donors in a fake GoFundMe campaign. Prosecutors cited by Fox News said 39-year-old Mark DAmico was indicted on Wednesday, May 9, on six charges related to a fraudulent Good Samaritan scheme that duped thousands into donating over $400,000. Investigators have alleged DAmico, along with his then-girlfriend Kate McClure and homeless veteran Johnny Bobbit, devised a get-rich-quick scheme that used a fabricated feel-good story to spark mass donations. Burlington County Prosecutor Scott Coffina announced DAmicos indictment, according to Fox. DAmico is the last of the three to face charges connected with the scam. Bogus Feel-Good Story Over 14,000 people donated to the GoFundMe campaign in 2017 in the wake of a viral story about homeless veteran Johnny Bobbitt using his last $20 to help out a woman who had gotten stranded on a Philadelphia highway in the wrong part of town. That woman, Kate McClure, who took the story viral, was realbut the story was a sham. It claimed that Bobbitt, a former Marine and first responder, spent the last of his money to help McClure buy gas after her car broke down on the I-95 exit ramp near Philadelphia. McClure posted the heartwarming rescue story on social media, directing people to a campaign page set up to collect funds ostensibly to help Bobbitt get a leg-up in life. Lets do something special, McClure wrote, as news of the homeless mans alleged selfless act quickly went viral. The funding response was overwhelming. The goal was $10,000, but within nine months the amount collected reached $402,706an extraordinary result that received broad media coverage. McClure said on the GoFundMe page that the money would be used to buy Bobbitt a house and truck, and the rest would be placed in two trustsone that would let him collect a small salary each year and another for his retirement. In fact, McClure met Bobbit a month before the made-up story went viral, a court heard on March 6, when Bobbitt pleaded guilty to multiple charges in connection with the case, according to CBS. The story unraveled when Bobbitt announced he was suing the couple, claiming they had misused funds that were intended for him. McClure and then-boyfriend DAmico spent the cash on lavish gifts, including a BMW, designer goods, and trips to Las Vegas. The ensuing investigation sparked by Bobbitts displeasure at receiving only around $25,000 unmasked the campaign as a fraud. DAmico and McClure spent most of the rest of the money in just a few months, according to the prosecutors office. I cant believe we have less than $10K left, McClure said to DAmico in a March 2018 text, according to a probable cause statement cited by the Courier-Post. In a year youll be laughing about when you blew hundreds of thousands, she wrote. GoFundMe has refunded all donations made to the fake campaign. Bobbitt Sentenced, McClure Pleads Guilty Bobbit, for his role in the scam, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit money laundering. He has been sentenced to five years probation. The judge handed down Bobbitts sentence as part of an earlier plea agreement reached with prosecutors. He must meet conditions including inpatient drug treatment and cooperation with prosecutors against his co-defendants. If he violates those conditions, he will be sentenced to five years in prison with no possibility of parole for at least 18 months. McClure pleaded guilty on April 15 at a New Jersey court to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud. She could face up to 33 months in jail. Her sentencing is expected in June. She has been released on a $100,000 bond, according to The Inquirer, and ordered not to have contact with the co-defendants. McClure claims to have been a reluctant participant in a scheme she said was devised by DAmico. She was really used as Bobbitt was used in the end by DAmico, said McClures attorney, James Gerrow, according to the Courier-Post. The truth is DAmico is the one who kept this going, Gerrow said. McClure and Bobbitt are both expected to cooperate with prosecutors in the case against DAmico. Fox reported McClures plea agreement forces her to testify against her former boyfriend and help repay the money. DAmico has not been charged in federal court. The Associated Press contributed to this report. North Korea Fires Unidentified Projectile SEOULNorth Korea fired an unidentified projectile on Thursday, May 9, the Souths military chiefs said, less than a week after its leader Kim Jong Un oversaw the test-firing of multiple rockets and a missile. The projectile was fired at about 4:30 p.m. from the northwest location of Sino-ri, towards the east, the Souths Office of the Joint Chiefs of Staff said in a statement. It did not immediately release further details. Sino-ri is believed to be home to one of about 20 undeclared missile facilities that Pyongyang operates throughout the country according to the Center for Strategic and International Studies Beyond Parallel program. Last week North Korea launched a number of rockets and at least one short-range missile from its east coast into the ocean, sharply raising tension on the Korean peninsula at a time of stalemate in talks between Pyongyang and Washington. On Wednesday North Korea lashed out at the United States and South Korea, saying last weeks strike drill was regular and self-defensive and rejecting the notion that it was an act of provocation. South Korea responded to last weeks action by the North by calling for an end to acts that escalate military tension. The area where Thursdays projectile was launched is believed to be the site of a medium-range Rodong missile base on North Koreas west coast, a Washington-based think tank, the Center for Strategic International Studies, says. Saturdays launch of a short-range missile from another east coast area was the Norths first test of a ballistic missile since it launched an intercontinental ballistic missile in November 2017. At that time, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un declared its nuclear force was complete and extended an olive branch to the South and the United States, holding two summit meetings with President Donald Trump and three with the South Korean leader. Deal Will Happen President Trump expressed confidence that North Koreas leadership will not jeopardize the economic prosperity of their nation and that a denuclearization deal will be struck, after several short-range projectiles were launched from its east coast. North Korea is currently under strict economic sanctions imposed by the international communitylead by the United Statesafter Kim Jong Un ramped up a nuclear weapons program in 2017. Those sanctions brought Kim Jong Un to the negotiating table for a historic meeting with President Trump last year, when the North Korean leader promised to pause the nuclear weapons development program and stop testing intercontinental ballistic missiles. On May 4, South Korean officials said that missiles had been fired 40-125 miles out to sea from the coast of North Korea. It later downgraded the description to projectiles. President Trump responded on May 4, writing on Twitter, Anything in this very interesting world is possible, but I believe that Kim Jong Un fully realizes the great economic potential of North Korea, and will do nothing to interfere or end it. He also knows that I am with him and does not want to break his promise to me. Deal will happen! Anything in this very interesting world is possible, but I believe that Kim Jong Un fully realizes the great economic potential of North Korea, & will do nothing to interfere or end it. He also knows that I am with him & does not want to break his promise to me. Deal will happen! Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) May 4, 2019 The projectiles fired on May 4 do not appear in violation of North Koreas promises and are a far cry from the long-range intercontinental ballistic missiles that North Korea was test-firing before sanctions were tightened. However, according to some analysts, they are something of a warning shot. Clearly, Pyongyang is frustrated with the conclusion of the recent summit with Washington in Vietnam that did not produce any breakthrough, Harry J. Kazianis, the director of Korean Studies at the Center for the National Interest, said in a statement Friday night, reported The Hill. It also seems clear that North Korea is angry over what appears to be a lack of flexibility in the Trump administrations position on relieving sanctions, sticking to a policy of maximum pressure. In February, President Trump walked away from the second talks without a deal, after North Korea insisted on lifting sanctions without offering enough denuclearization in return. It was about the sanctions, Trump said. Basically, they wanted the sanctions lifted in their entirety, and we couldnt do that. They were willing to denuke a large portion of the areas we wanted, but we couldnt give up all of the sanctions for that. While the two leaders failed to reach a consensus, Trump said the summit was very productive. The president added he had a proposed agreement that was ready to be signed, but said he didnt want to rush into a bad deal. South Koreas Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) said in a statement that several unidentified short-range projectiles flew some 70 to 200 kilometers (about 44 to 125 miles) from the north of the city of Wonsan around 9 a.m. local time before they landed in the water. Surveillance and vigilance have been stepped up to prepare for any further launches by North Korea, and the South Korean military maintains readiness and is cooperating with the United States, the JCS added. Our military has been closely watching North Koreas movements and has maintained a full-fledged posture in close coordination with the U.S., the JCS said in a statement quoted by South Koreas Yonhap news agency. Epoch Times reporter Simon Veazey and The CNN Wire contributed to this article. North Korea Launches Short-Range Missiles, Reports Say North Korea fired off two short-range missiles, according to officials in South Korea on May 9. The missiles were fired from Kusong, located in northwestern North Korea, and they traveled about 260 miles toward the east, the Yonhap News Agency reported. CNN, however, reported that one was fired from Sino-ri, which is also located in the northwestern portion of the country. The missiles had an altitude of about 30 miles and hit the East Sea, known as the Sea of Japan, the news agency reported, citing South Koreas Defense Military. Our military has strengthened surveillance and vigilance in case of a further launch from North Korea, and has maintained a full-fledged posture in close coordination with the United States, the Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) said, according to ton Yonhap. The JCS didnt elaborate on what type of missiles they were. Japan said that no North Korean projectile landed in its territorial waters. At the moment, we dont see any situation that would immediately impact on Japans security, its Ministry of Defense said in a statement, according to the news agency. Over the weekend, the isolated, communist nation launched several missiles and rockets to show that it is still working on new weapons amid de-escalation talks between President Trump and North Koreas Kim Jong Un. NPR reported that a missile tested over the weekend bore some similarity to Russias Iskander missile. Meanwhile, Pyongyangs strike drill last week at which leader Kim Jong Un oversaw the launch of rockets and at least one short-range ballistic missile was regular and self-defensive, the countrys foreign ministry said on Wednesday. The recent drill conducted by our army is nothing more than part of the regular military training, and it has neither targeted anyone nor led to an aggravation of the situation in the region, an unidentified ministry spokesperson said in a statement to the state-run KCNA news agency. Acting U.S. Defense Secretary Patrick Shanahan told a congressional hearing on Wednesday that North Korea launched rockets and missiles, the first time the Pentagon has detailed what it believes Pyongyang fired. Saturdays drill was the first test of a ballistic missile by North Korea since it launched a long-range intercontinental ballistic missile in November 2017. Reuters contributed to this report. Pain in Womans Leg Turns Out to be a Needle Lodged Deep Inside A needle was found deep inside a womans leg, which had been causing her pain for about half a month. After receiving an X-ray, doctors found the needle embedded in her thigh, and used surgical means to remove it. The woman, surnamed Li, 55, said she may have accidentally stuck herself with the needle while sewing in March. Li had the needle removed toward the end of April, according to a report on May 6 from mainland Chinese media ThePaper.cn. The orthopedic head doctor responsible for the operation, named Lian Xiao, said the needle was about 1 to 1.5 inches long (3 to 4 centimeters), and being so thin made it hard to find after it stuck into her, according to the Beijing News. A Needle in Her Leg Li said she felt pain in her leg since March, according to ThePaper.cn. At the time, she was sewing buttons for her nephew. Li remembered taking a break from her work. She said she had the habit of leaving a needle inside clothing. When Li resumed her sewing, she said she wasnt paying attention and may have accidentally let the needle pierce her. This needle is really thin, so when it pierced the skin, the pain could have been just momentary, Lian told the Beijing News. After it pierced her skin, since it was thin, it was able to move around. The doctor told the Beijing News that she couldnt even find the injury after it happened. Li said that since the beginning of April, she would feel a lot of pain in her leg if she sat for a long period of time or walked around. I bought lots of medical creams to put on [my leg], but none of them did anything, Li told ThePaper.cn. I got antibiotic medicine from the local hospitals too, which helped the inflamed part on the back of my leg, but it still hurt. There was a bump too, and it hurt when I touched it. Finally, she came to the orthopedic department of a local hospital, and an X-ray revealed the needle deep in her thigh. The needle had moved so much that it was now facing upward in her leg. Since she was walking around for for about half a month with the needle stuck in her leg, that may have caused it to move around, Lian told the Beijing News. She was really surprised, Lian said. At the time, she couldnt even think of how the needle got stuck into her. Pennsylvania Mother Whose Drugs-Laced Breast Milk Killed Her Baby Will Not Be Jailed The mother of a 10-week-old baby who was killed by a lethal cocktail of drugs in her breast milk will not be jailed, after she struck a plea-deal with Pennsylvania prosecutors. Samantha Jones, 31 had been charged with homicide after an autopsy found her baby died of a combination of methadone, methamphetamine, and amphetamine back in 2018. On May 8, she pleaded guilty to involuntary manslaughter, reported the Bucks County Courier Times, in exchange for a sentence of three years of probation and 100 hours of community service, plus time already served. According to the Courier, the judge said incarcerating Jones, who has taken steps to combat her drug addiction, would do little good. Grief and regret would provide the true penalty, he said. Her attorney said that she was strangled with grief and tortured by loss, after the death of her son on April 2, 2018. Jones, of New Britain, had been prescribed methadone to treat her addiction to painkillers, according to the district attorney in Bucks County. According to the Courier, she had relapsed and begun to use illegal drugs. After feeding her baby in the night, Jones told police she woke on April 2 at around 6:30 a.m. to find him pale, with bloody mucous coming from his nose, according to the Bucks County district attorney. She called her mother, who called 911 and began CPR, guided by the dispatcher. Police arrived to find the baby in cardiac arrest. He was taken to the emergency room, where he was pronounced dead at around 9:30 a.m. Jones told police that she had been primarily breast-feeding the baby, but had switched to formula three days earlier. That night when the baby woke her for a feed at around 3 a.m., she told police she was too tired to prepare formula, so breast-fed him instead. According to the Courier, the boys grandmother, Michele McGovern, told the court that she continues to be mystified by Joness actions that day. I keep replaying it in my head, she said. According to The Intelligencer, almost exactly one year before her son died, Jones was arrested after New Britain police alleged she was found passed out at the wheel of her vehicle with a baby inside. The same drugs that were later found in her sons system were identified by a blood test, along with the anxiety medication clonazepam. She was sentenced to house arrest with the condition of continuing drug treatment, and the more serious charges were dropped. More Deadly Than Car Crashes According to a report earlier this year, Americans are more likely to die of an opioid overdose than a car crash. It is the first time that opioid overdoses have surpassed motor vehicle accidents as the leading cause of unintentional deaths, according to a new report by the National Safety Council (NSC). Americans have a 1 in 96 chance of dying from an opioid overdose, while the probability of dying in a motor vehicle accident is 1 in 103. The councils analysis is based on 2017 mortality data by the National Center for Health Statistics, which is part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The nations opioid crisis is fueling the Councils grim probabilities, and that crisis is worsening with an influx of illicit fentanyl, the NSC said in a statement on Jan. 14. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), more than 130 people in the United States die of an opioid overdose each day, while the cost of prescription opioid misuse in the country is $78.5 billion a year. This includes the costs of healthcare, lost productivity, addiction treatment, and criminal justice involvement. Back in October 2017, President Donald Trump declared the opioid crisis a national public health emergency. The Senate subsequently passed a bill that received bipartisan support to combat the crisis. Poised, Confident Klobuchar Draws Praise for Fox News Town Hall Appearance Sen. Amy Klobuchars steeply uphill campaign for her partys 2020 presidential nomination got a much-needed boost on May 8 as she became the second Democratic candidate to take the plunge on the Fox News Town Hall. Since announcing her candidacy Feb. 10, the Minnesota Democrat, 58, has been mired deep in the pack of 22 candidates seeking to oppose President Donald Trumps reelection bid in November 2020. She consistently draws around five percent support in surveys of the gigantic field, trailing former Vice President Joe Biden, Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Sen. Kamala Harris (D-Calif.), Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and, more recently, South Bend, Indiana, Mayor Pete Buttigieg. Klobuchar displayed the key to her candidacy when she was asked by an audience member why progressive voters should support her rather than any of the other nearly two dozen candidates who offer similar, if not identical, positions on major issues such as Medicare for All and the Green New Deal. I am a proven progressive, she said. The last time I checked, if you want to be a progressive and support progressives, then you are supposed to make progress. Klobuchar has acquired a reputation, serving as Minnesotas first woman senator, as somebody who generally takes liberal positions but who is also pragmatic and willing to work with opponents whenever possible. She supports Medicare for All but thinks it can only be achieved gradually and in stages. Similarly, Klobuchar calls the Green New Deal aspirational, which sounds very much like a diplomatic dismissal. Her image thus provides a solid contrast with left-wing radicalism displayed by Sanders, Harris, and Warren, as well as other less-prominent contenders such as Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-Calif.), Rep. Tim Ryan (D-Ohio), and former Rep. Beto ORourke (D-Texas). Reviews One important Democratic player who was impressed with Klobuchars performance was former Democratic National Committee Chairwoman Donna Brazile, now a Fox News political analyst. If I had a nickname for her, I would just call her Common Sense Amy because many of her answers were just common sense, Brazile said after the event. I thought she did herself a lot of good tonight, especially with those Democrats who are still shopping for a candidate, Brazile said. She had a lot of items that she checked off the list and, while I think on the economy she needs to get a little stronger, overall, I think she did a great job. Klobuchar also drew praise on May 9 for a strong onstage performance in the Fox News event in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, from Democratic and Republican strategists interviewed by The Epoch Times. No one should underestimate Klobuchar. Shes a smart, low-key legislator. Shes that senatorial horse with blinders on, Democrat Jimmy Williams said. But shes also politically astute and that makes her dangerous to Trump both as a potential opponent and as a sitting senator, he said. Williams, a South Carolina-based campaign strategist, is a former senior economic adviser to Sen. Dick Durbin (D-Ill.). Senator Klobuchar did a great job in her Fox News town hall, said Republican strategist Brian Darling. Her strength was that she was in Wisconsin and was speaking to a state that narrowly voted for President Trump, and she discussed her struggle with her dads addiction in a way that shows her humanity. But Darling cautioned that, while any time a candidate has one hour on a major network to make their case, they are winning, he said he doesnt see a pathway to victory for her campaign. Darling thinks Klobuchars most realistic hope is to be the Democrats vice-presidential nominee. Klobuchar should get significant benefit from the Milwaukee event if the audience for the first Fox News Town Hall on April 15 is a reliable indicator. Sanders, the self-described democratic socialist who challenged former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton until late in the 2016 Democratic presidential primary, drew 2.6 million viewers. The May 8 town hall audience was down significantly at 1.6 million views. But even down 1 million viewers, the Fox program was still the most-watched on cable news for the time slot, according to Nielsen Media Research figures reported by The Hill. The 1.6 million viewers, however, was significantly better than the 1.1 million who watched Klobuchars CNN Town Hall on Feb. 18. Earlier this year, the DNC, led by its chairman, Tom Perez of Maryland, opted to deny Fox News a role in televising debates among the Democratic candidates during the primary campaign. Neither Sanders nor Klobuchar were explicitly defying the DNC by appearing on the town halls, same goes for Buttigieg and Gillibrand who are scheduled for May 19 and June 2 respectively. Fox also hosted an April 4 Town Hall with former Starbucks CEO Howard Schultz, a Democrat who is considering running as an independent. Acting Secretary of Defence Patrick M. Shanahan speaks during a joined statement with the German Defence Minister after the D-ISIS meeting of defence minsters at the Hotel Bayerischer Hof prior to the 55th Munich Security Conference (MSC) in Munich, southern Germany, on Feb. 15, 2019. (Thomas Kienzle/AFP/Getty Images) President Trump to Nominate Patrick M. Shanahan as Defense Secretary: White House President Donald Trump intends to nominate acting Defense Secretary Patrick Shanahan as the new Secretary of Defense, according to a White House press release. Based upon his outstanding service to the Country and his demonstrated ability to lead, President Trump intends to nominate Patrick M. Shanahan to be the Secretary of Defense, said White House press secretary Sarah Sanders. Shanahan has previously served as deputy secretary of defense and vice president of supply chain and operations at Boeing. President Trump intends to nominate Patrick M. Shanahan as Secretary of Defense. pic.twitter.com/RaOXb09qMr Sarah Sanders (@PressSec) May 9, 2019 Acting Secretary Shanahan has proven over the last several months that he is beyond qualified to lead the Department of Defense, and he will continue to do an excellent job, said Sanders in the statement. Shortly after the announcement, Shanahan issued a statement saying he was honored to be chosen as the Pentagons permanent head. 1 of 2: I am honored by todays announcement from @PressSec. If confirmed by the Senate, I will continue the aggressive implementation of our National Defense Strategy. Acting SecDef Pat Shanahan (@ActingSecDef) May 9, 2019 If confirmed by the Senate, I will continue the aggressive implementation of our National Defense Strategy, Shanahan said. In another Tweet, he said: I remain committed to modernizing the force so our remarkable Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, and Marines have everything they need to keep our military lethal and our country safe. 2 of 2: I remain committed to modernizing the force so our remarkable Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, and Marines have everything they need to keep our military lethal and our country safe. Acting SecDef Pat Shanahan (@ActingSecDef) May 9, 2019 Speaking to reporters after his nomination, Shanahan expressed much enthusiasm. I called my momIm very excited, he said. Shanahan took over the job in an acting capacity following the December resignation of Gen. Jim Mattis, who left the administration over a series of policy differences with Trump, particularly over the Presidents initial decision to withdraw US troops from Syria. Patrick Shanahan on being nominated to be Secretary of Defense: I called my momIm very excited. pic.twitter.com/LJhtB8K3El CSPAN (@cspan) May 9, 2019 While Mattis had intended to stay on until the end of February, in part to allow time for his successor to be named and confirmed, Trump, reportedly angry over the coverage of Mattiss resignation, decided to cut the transition period short, thrusting Shanahan into the role on Jan. 1. Shanahan cleared a major hurdle blocking him from becoming Trumps nominee last month when the Department of Defenses Inspector General cleared him of allegations that he violated ethics agreements by promoting the interests of his former employer, Boeing. CNN Wire Service Content contributed to this report. The ceremony saw the presence of Lao Deputy Minister of National Defence, Lieutenant General Phuvong Vongphom, Vietnamese Ambassador to Laos Nguyen Ba Hung, Vietnamese Defence Attache to Laos Tao Van Thai and others. Speaking at the ceremony, Lao Deputy Minister of National Defence Phuvong Vongphom said that the Lao army and people are delighted to coordinate with the Party, State, army and people of Vietnam to hold the ceremony to mark the Dien Bien Phu Victory. He noted that the Dien Bien Phu victory was the greatest victory in the history of fighting against invaders of the Vietnamese Army and people, under the leadership of the Communist Party of Vietnam and President Ho Chi Minh. It was not only a victory of the Vietnamese Army and people, but also a victory of the Lao and Cambodian people, who allied with Vietnam to fight against the common enemy to liberate the country and force the enemy to recognise the national independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity of Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia, Lieutenant General Phuvong Vongphom noted. He added that the Lao army and people were grateful for the valuable support that Vietnam has provided for Laos during its cause for national liberation and the current process of national defence and development. Vietnamese Defence Attache to Laos Tao Van Thai thanked the Lao Ministry of National Defence for organising the ceremony to mark the 65th anniversary of Dien Dien Phu Victory. He also expressed his gratitude to the Lao Party, State, Army and people for supporting Vietnam over the past years. SANDY, Utah, May 09, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Mountain America Credit Union celebrated National Business Week by hosting Sandy Area Chamber of Commerces Lets Do Lunch event which featured Cotopaxis co-founder Stephan Jacob. Under Stephans leadership, Cotopaxi grew from a small local business to an international business in just a little over two years. Small businesses are central to our communities, employing more than one-third of the countrys workforce and generating roughly 44% of the U.S. gross domestic product (GDP). Established to help individuals and businesses achieve their financial dreams, Mountain America currently serves over 50,000 business members. Mountain America celebrates the entrepreneurial spirit America was founded on, says Nathan Anderson, executive vice president, and chief operating officer at Mountain America Credit Union, and chairman of the board at Sandy Area Chamber of Commerce. We recognize the significant role small businesses play in creating jobs and improving communities and commend small business owners for their hard work and contribution. Mountain America Credit Union was recently ranked first among credit unions in business deposit accounts nationally by NCUA.gov. Previously, Mountain America was ranked #1 in the Western region for six consecutive years and #2 nationally for five of the past six years. Additionally, the U.S. Small Business Administration has ranked Mountain America as the top SBA Lender for credit unions in the nation for the past 15 years. Mountain America is a full-service business financial institution and focuses on meeting the individual needs of each of its business members. Business Services include ACH payments and receipts, online domestic and international wires, remote deposit capture, mobile business remote deposit, merchant services, payroll processing, project management, fraud mitigation tools for check and ACH debit, and more. Mountain America has been providing solutions to businesses for over ten years and can customize business accounts based on member needs. A dedicated team of business account executives and a fully trained support staff are ready to serve business members. About Mountain America Credit Union With more than 820,000 members and $8.5 billion in assets, Mountain America Credit Union assists members on the right path to help them identify and achieve their financial dreams. Mountain America provides consumers and businesses with a variety of convenient, flexible products and services, as well as sound, timely advice. Members enjoy access to secure, cutting-edge mobile banking technology, over 90 branches across five states, thousands of shared-branching locations nationwide and more than 50,000 surcharge-free ATMs. Mountain Americasafely guiding you forward along your financial journey. Learn more at macu.com A photo accompanying this announcement is available at http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/50e3fdee-26b7-4f5e-8767-ed50cdc1e258 People walking near the capitol building in Sacramento, Calif., on May 8, 2019. (Daniel Holl/The Epoch Times) California Public Schools Sex-Ed Changes Horrific, Psychologist Says SACRAMENTO, Calif.A group of parents and other protesters staged a rally on May 8 in opposition to changes coming to Californias public school sexual-education curriculum, part of which was described as horrific. The state Department of Education approved the new guidelines for sexual education, including encouraging teachers to speak to kindergartners about gender identity and discussing explicit sexual acts with middle and high schoolers. However, the board decided to remove five books and resources from the guidelines, one of which introduced the idea of sex to children as young as 5 years old. A Psychologists Evaluation Dr. Michael Kuiper, a clinical psychologist with 25 years of experience, spoke against the new curriculum, saying that many kids are too young to have the ability to fully grasp what is being presented. Its a horrific kind of thing, very confusing, they are not ready to understand any of this, Kuiper said. There are two main issues in the curriculum, according to Kuiper. One is how health and reproductive reasons are used to justify the explicit education. Its all under the guise of protecting from STDs, pregnancy, that sort of thing, Kuiper said. The problem is that there have been comprehensive studies over the last some decades that show that this kind of program doesnt really actually reduce STDS or pregnancy, and in some cases, makes it worse. Thats one aspect, sexualizing children under the guise of protecting them, he added. The other issue is gender fluidity, which is taught under the guise of welcoming childrens differences and to avoid bullying, according to Kuiper. We dont want anyone to be bullied, [but] the data that kids are really bullied really isnt there. Kuiper also talked about the gender dysphoriabeing unhappy with ones genderwhich he says is indirectly encouraged by the curriculum. The idea of a mother raises kids and a father goes off to work, theyre very against that, Kuiper said. They certainly will put up things like the genderbread man, you can identify as a boy or a girl or as something. Whats called the genderbread person is an educational tool that defines gender as being based on identity, expression, and biological sex. Kuiper said that many kids grow up confused, have self-doubt, and are unclear about who they are. Further, adolescent cognitive abilities arent fully developed to think things through and make wise decisions, he said. He recommended that both parents and grandparents need to be involved in speaking out about these education laws. An Educators Voice, A Mothers Concern While America Figueroa hasnt been teaching for two years, the early childhood educator and mother of five wanted to come to the rally to help educate parents on what the new educational framework involves. Im here today because of the framework. Its a malicious document; its horrific, Figueroa said. I remember when I was in school, they told us, The framework is like your Bible to teach.' Figueroa said that parents not knowing about the changes to their childrens education is a concern. What about other parents? Other parents who dont even have time to check the backpacks of their children? Other parents who work all day, they come home tired, they just want to see and hug their kids, she said. What adds to the difficulty is that information about the sex-ed curriculum hasnt been provided in any languages other than English, according to Figueroa, making it difficult for many parents to understand. In addition, she said that as a Hispanic woman, the curriculum runs counter to her cultures and traditions. Its excluding me becausemy culture has a way to teach things to children, my culture teaches that kids are to explore their sexuality with the person theyre going to marry, or theyre married with, and not like they say in the framework, throughout their school years and even beyond high school, that children are to explore their sexuality. That goes against my culture, against my moral values, against my beliefs. Figueroa said she hopes that parents will learn about the changes and take action to protect their children. Parents across the state have held multiple protests in recent weeks in opposition to Californias sex-ed laws, described as comprehensive sexual health education and HIV prevention education, according to the California Department of Education. Reports: California Couple to Pay $580,000 for Uprooting Tree A Northern California couple was ordered by a judge to pay nearly $600,000 for uprooting a 200-year-old oak tree on their property. The oak tree, which was reportedly 180 years old, was protected under a conservation easement, reported the Santa Rosa Press Democrat. A neighbor in 2014 said they saw heavy machinery and digging on the property of Peter and Toni Thompson, CBS San Francisco reported. The property was reportedly under the easement. Couple must pay nearly $600G for removing oak tree from their property, judge ruleshttps://t.co/tRfRtnEtun Rob Christie (@RobChristie11) May 9, 2019 Court documents said that a Sonoma Land Trust official discovered about 3,000 cubic yards of dirt and rock were removed along with the oak tree. That tree and about a dozen others died, the CBS report noted. The Sonoma County Superior Judge agreed with the Sonoma Land Trust, saying the Thompsons violated the deal, Fox News reported. They were fined about $586,000. In a judgment last week, Sonoma County Superior Court Judge Patrick Broderick said the couple engaged in knowing and intentional violations of a legally binding conservation deal, AP reported. He also said the couple had demonstrated an arrogance and complete disregard for the mandatory terms of the easement. The Thompsons decided to sell their property for $8.45 million after the ruling, and they are now seeking a new trial. There are so many personal tragic issues throughout this case that were very painful to deal with and actually really affected the ability to tell our side of the story, Peter Thompson told The Associated Press. In our opinion, theres a lot of evidence that our side of the story really didnt get a chance to explain. Woman Sued Over Flintstones Home Just miles to the south of the Thompsons property, the owner of a Flintstones housea home that was designed to look like the famed cartoonwas sued by the city of Hillsborough, California. The house is owned by Florence Fang, a media mogul who founded the San Francisco Examiner and who is in her 80s, and she bought the home in 2017 for $2.8 million, reported the San Francisco Chronicle. The home features dinosaurs, Flintstones characters, and a sign with the words, Yabba Dabba Doo. Its located in an affluent part of San Mateo County in the San Francisco Bay Area. The city is suing her over gaudy outdoor decorations and other work, including a herd of large dinosaur sculptures and the sign, the Chronicle reported. In a statement to USA Today, Fangs grandson, Sean, said the family will fight to save the home. Owner of California Flintstones house vows to fight to save it: I think the dinosaurs are beautiful, says son https://t.co/ZktIdSt3ye pic.twitter.com/aDtAao0P7T Newsweek (@Newsweek) March 19, 2019 I think the dinosaurs are beautiful. They make everyone smile and should stay, Sean Fang said. Donald Trump Jr. greets supporters of President Donald Trump before he speaks at a Make America Great Again rally in Green Bay, Wis., on April 27, 2019. (Darren Hauck/Getty Images) Republicans Criticize Senate Intel Panel for Issuing Subpoena to Trump Jr. Republicans and allies of President Donald Trump criticized lawmakers involved in issuing a subpoena to Donald Trump Jr.., the presidents son. Reports surfaced on May 8 that the Senate Intelligence Committee issued a subpoena to the younger Trump. The Republican-led committee is investigating Russian interference in the 2016 election. In February, the committee concluded that there was no evidence of collusion between the Trump campaign and Russia. [Donald Trump Jr.] has already spent dozens of hours testifying in front of Congressional committees. Endless investigationsby either partywont change the fact that there was NO collusion. Its time to move on. Its time to focus on ISSUES, not investigations, House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) wrote on Twitter. .@DonaldJTrumpJr has already spent dozens of hours testifying in front of Congressional committees. Endless investigationsby either partywont change the fact that there was NO collusion. Its time to move on. Its time to focus on ISSUES, not investigations. https://t.co/fbFH5uMLUz Kevin McCarthy (@GOPLeader) May 8, 2019 A source close to the presidents son testified before the Senate Intelligence Committee for almost nine hours and in front of congressional committees for a total of 27 hours. When Trump Jr. testified before the panel in 2017, it was agreed that he would only have to appear once, as long as he stayed as long as necessary, which he did. Don continues to cooperate by producing documents and is willing to answer written questions, but no lawyer would ever agree to have their client participate in what is an obvious PR stunt from a so-called Republican Senator to cowardly to stand up to his boss Mark Warner and the rest of the resistance Democrats on the committee, the source said. In March, special counsel Robert Mueller finished an investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election, and concluded that there wasnt evidence to establish that any American knowingly colluded with Russia. Two separate investigations, one by the House Intelligence Committee and another jointly by the House Oversight and Judiciary committees, also concluded there was no evidence of collusion. News of the subpoena surfaced a day after Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) said that the case is closed on the Mueller probe. Apparently the Republican chair of the Senate Intel Committee didnt get the memo from the Majority Leader that this case was closed, Sen. Rand Paul (R-Ky.) wrote on Twitter. Apparently the Republican chair of the Senate Intel Committee didnt get the memo from the Majority Leader that this case was closed https://t.co/jvV5PIX266 Sen. Rand Paul (@RandPaul) May 8, 2019 Republicans have accused Democrats of abusing the powers of congressional oversight to harass the president for political points ahead of the 2020 election. Weak & ridiculous for Senate to perpetuate the Russia Collusion Delusion by continuing to harass [Donald Trump Jr.]. They should NOT be taking orders from unhinged resistance Dems. Lets work together to help POTUS move US forward, Rep. Lee Zeldin (R-N.Y.) wrote on Twitter. Weak & ridiculous for Senate to perpetuate the Russia Collusion Delusion by continuing to harass @DonaldJTrumpJr. They should NOT be taking orders from unhinged resistance Dems. Lets work together to help POTUS move US forward. https://t.co/wSaHkEpqep Lee Zeldin (@RepLeeZeldin) May 9, 2019 Serving a subpoena to Don Trump Jr.a private citizen who voluntarily testified before 3 Congressional committees for 25+ hoursis beyond inappropriate, Rep. Mark Meadows (R-N.C.) wrote on Twitter. He answered questions and was cleared in the Mueller report after a 2 year, unlimited investigation. Its over. Let it go. Sen. John Cornyn (R-Texas) told CNN he understands Donald Trump Jr.s frustration and feels like the committee probe is wearing kind of thin. Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) told CNN that he would be reluctant to let the presidents son return to testify before the intelligence committee. Asked about the subpoena for his son, the president said Donald Trump Jr. did nothing wrong and is a good person. The Mueller report came out, thats the Bible, Trump said, adding that the last thing [his son] needs is Washington D.C. In addition to the subpoena from the Republican-led committee, Trump, his family, and his associates are facing a barrage of inquiries from House Democrats. While the House tax-writing committee is in a standoff with the Treasury Department over a request for Trumps tax returns, Democrats are also fighting to obtain years of financial records from Trumps accounting firm. After the release of Muellers report, the White House began to actively fight back against the Democrat-led inquiries. On the day the news of the subpoena for the presidents son surfaced, Trump asserted executive privilege over the full Mueller report, in response to Democrats initiating the process to find Attorney General William Barr in contempt of Congress. The White House has also asserted executive privilege to prevent former White House counsel Don McGahn from testifying. Students exit a school bus in front of their school in the Bronx, New York City, on Jan. 9, 2013. (Benjamin Chasteen/The Epoch Times) Sexual Assault Survivors Call for Dismissal of Judge Who Didnt Send Convicted Child Rapist to Prison Sexual assault survivors have spoken out after an Upstate New York man wasnt sentenced to prison for raping a 14-year-old girl. Shane Piche, a former school bus driver, was sentenced to 10 years of probation by Jefferson County Supreme Court Judge James McClusky in late April, according to reports. He will also have to register as a Level 1 sex offender, which is the lowest designation, according to local reports. The 26-year-old pleaded guilty earlier in 2019 after he was accused of assaulting the girl at his Watertown home. A number of groups, however, have spoken out about his sentencing. No one should have to go through an entire court case just to be told that their assault didnt matter, but thats what Judge McClusky said, UltraViolet, a womens advocacy group, said in a letter to the New York Commission, asking to remove McClusky, the New York Daily News reported. Several petitions have also have been circulated online, with more than 100,000 people signing them. State court spokesperson Lucian Chalfen, however, stated that McClusky has received thousands of calls, threats, and emails from people who have no understanding and know nothing about the facts and circumstances of the case, thanks to social media. Arbitrarily removing judges for handing down sentences that some may disagree with cuts both ways, leaving us with no process of accountability, Chalfen told the Daily News, adding that his sentence was an issue of judicial discretion, not an administrative one. The mother of the victim said that she wishes Piche would have received time in jail for the harm he caused to my child, according to WWNY. He took something from my daughter she will never get back and has caused her to struggle with depression and anxiety, the news outlet quoted her as saying as part of a victim impact statement. Hell be a felon for the rest of his life. Hes on the sex offender registry for a long time. Maybe not the rest of his life because of the level but this isnt something that didnt cause him pain and this isnt something that didnt have consequences, stated Eric Swartz, who served as Piches defense attorney, according to the report. Chelsea Miller of the New York State Coalition Against Sexual Assault told the Daily News that the judge or other officials may not have understood what that 14-year-old girl experienced. Unfortunately, this can discourage survivors who see jail or prison time as a form of accountability, Miller said. Swartz said that Piche, who had to pay $375 in fees and surcharges, no longer works at the bus company, the Watertown Daily Times reported, adding that he had to pay a $1,000 special sex offender registration fee. He noted that Piche had no prior criminal record, adding that there was one victim. Facts About Crime in the United States Violent crime in the United States has fallen sharply over the past 25 years, according to both the FBIs Uniform Crime Reports (UCR) and the Bureau of Justice Statistics (BJS) National Crime Victimization Survey (NCVS). The rate of violent crimes fell by 49 percent between 1993 and 2017, according to the FBIs UCR, which only reflects crimes reported to the police. The violent crime rate dropped by 74 percent between 1993 and 2017, according to the BJSs NCVS, which takes into account both crimes that have been reported to the police and those that have not. From 1993 to 2017, the rate of violent victimization declined 74 percent, from 79.8 to 20.6 victimizations per 1,000 persons age 12 or older, the U.S. Department of Justice stated. Both studies are based on data up to and including 2017, the most recent year for which complete figures are available. The FBI recently released preliminary data for 2018. According to the Preliminary Semiannual Uniform Crime Report, January to June 2018, violent crime rates in the United States dropped by 4.3 percent compared to the same six-month period in 2017. Suspect in Grisly Sword Killing Confesses to 6 Other Murders: Reports The suspect accused of killing a 77-year-old man in Miami Beach in a gory sword attack has confessed to six other murders during a police interview, according to local reports. Nicholas Gibson, 32, was questioned over the death of Erik Stocker whose was body was found in his south Florida home on April 30, 10 days after he had been killed, when neighbors noticed a foul smell from his apartment. In that interview, he admitted to his involvement in the murder of Mr. Stocker, Ernesto Rodriguez, Miami Beach Police Department public information officer, said in a statement, according to ABC. We also recovered physical evidence to support the murder charges that will be filed against him once he is returned to Miami. Mr. Gibson also made additional statements about his involvement in six other murders during earlier times in his life, said Rodriguez. Miami Beach police traveled to New York to speak with Gibson, where a transit officer had recognized him as a murder suspect on the L-train. Gibson was also wanted by U.S. Marshals for failing to register as a sex offender in an Illinois case that goes back over a decade, according to the Miami Herald. A police source told the Herald that the murder scene in Florida was unusually gory and that Stocker had been killed by some kind of sword. Police believe Stocker was killed at least 10 days before his body was found at 1508 Michigan Avenue in Miami Beach. Gibsons claims could not be immediately corroborated, according to the Sun Sentinel. We are evaluating the information he has provided. We will be working with law enforcement in these locations in an attempt to determine the credibility of his statements, Rodriguez said. According to the Daily Mail, Gibson has been in and out of jails in several states. He was convicted of rape in Illinois, aged 13, and served seven years at a youth center. Four months after being released he was arrested for raping and indecently assaulting a person under 16, and later sentenced to a four-and-a-half year prison sentence. He has since been in and out of jail for failing to register as a sex offender in the states of Georgia and Florida. Serial Killers Serial killers account for only 1 percent of all murders in the United States, according to the FBI. However, there is a macabre interest in the topic that far exceeds its scope and has generated countless articles, books, and movies, notes the FBI website. This broad-based public fascination began in the late 1880s, after a series of unsolved prostitute murders occurred in the Whitechapel area of London. These murders were committed by an unknown individual who named himself Jack the Ripper and sent letters to the police claiming to be the killer. The movie villain cliche of a highly-intelligent, dysfunctional loner, traveling state to state does not fit the reality, according to the FBI. As with Jack the Ripper, serial killings are often associated with sexual motives. However, the FBI says that serial killers are usually motivated by other forces, including anger, thrill, financial gain, and attention seeking. The FBI definition of a serial killer, however, probably includes many people who would not typically be regarded as serial killers. That definition is someone who commits at least three murders over more than a month with an emotional cooling off period in between. Teenage Girl Suffers Knife Attack After Rejecting Male Admirer; Needs 70 Stitches A 15-year-old girl was cut four times on her face by a male admirer after she rejected him. The man was arrested after the attack. The girl received 70 stitches in total, according to the mainland Chinese Guangdong News. The longest and deepest cut was 4 inches (10 centimeters) long, extending from her right chin all the way down to her lower lip. The girl, surnamed Gu, moved to the city of Shenzhen in Chinas southern Guangdong Province to intern at a beauty school. The attack happened after school on the evening of May 3. The suspect, surnamed Sun, was detained after he took her to the hospital. The Attack Gu moved to Shenzhen in February from Hunan Province to intern at a beauty school. She attracted the attention of a male customer, Sun. [He] said he liked me, and he wanted me to be his girlfriend. I refused him, I just smiled and said nothing, Gu told the Guangdong News. There were several beautiful girls, and he pursued them in the same way. On the evening of May 3, after 11:00 p.m., Gu got off work and was getting ready to go back to her dormitory, but was followed by her admirer. When Gu passed into an alleyway, Sun grabbed Gu. He held her, and even attempted to kiss her. He also said flirtatious words to her. Gu refused him once more. Finally, he asked me one more time if there really wasnt a chance of us being together, and I said yes,' Gu told the Guangdong News. Then he suddenly pulled a knife out and cut my face, and asked if I still wanted to be with him. Out of fear, Gu complied with Sun. He sent me to the hospital after I agreed with him. Once Gu arrived at the hospital, she begged the nurse to call the police. Once the police arrived, they took Sun to the police station and detained him. He was held on suspicion of harassing other women and attacking Gu with a knife. Gus family members were concerned. Shes suffered a nervous breakdown, said one of Gus relatives, surnamed Pan, to the Guangdong News. Although shes still a little girl, there are so many scars on her face. Were worried that it will impact her future career and life. The Present Danger: The CCPs Unrestricted Warfare Against The US WASHINGTONA newly formed committee is sounding the alarm about the dangers posed by a Chinese Communist Party (CCP) that is waging unrestricted warfare against the United States, and the group is urging President Donald Trump to go further in opposing the CCP. In its fourth public event since it was founded in late March, the Committee on the Present Danger: China gathered politicians and experts on Capitol Hill on May 2 to discuss topics such as fifth-generation (5G) communications technology, intellectual property (IP) theft, the nature of the Chinese regime, and U.S. financial support for it. 5G Rep. Scott Perry (R-Pa.) said that in an age of the internet of things, everything is connected to something, and that something is connected to a network. That is why the United States cant afford to lose the race for 5G, the coming generation of internet technology. If that network is controlled by the CCPs version of 5G, all the data in it will be compromised. Perry used the battle of Gettysburg as an example of how important information is. In what is often described as the turning point in the U.S. Civil War, the Confederate commander, Robert E. Lee, had faulty information about the number and disposition of the Union forces, leading to his defeat. If the Chinese control that kind of information, Perry said, the battle is already over, unfortunately. We have become completely reliant upon their technology, because of the cost, because of how pervasive it is, and because its just been easy. We will have to recognize that this [technology] is essentially controlling the speech we have among one another, because we speak through one of the devices, Perry said. Every single bit of our communications will either be controlled by the United States of America, in our benevolence and our wish to be free and preserve privacy, and ensure the integrity of our intelligence, or information will be controlled by someone else. And they might have the goodwill to do this for us, but they might not. And if they are strategic adversaries that have an interest in overtaking us which, by the way, they do in this case, I suspect they might not be as benevolent. Perry said the Chinese are very focused about developing 5G, while, in the United States, we are fighting over a letter that Attorney General William Barr wrote. America needs to develop a coherent strategy for developing 5G, he said. In response to an audience question regarding whether Trump should use economic warfare as a means to defeat the CCPas President Ronald Reagan had done to the Soviet UnionPerry said yes, he believes that Trump should go beyond trade itself. Perry applauded Trump for doing more than any other president regarding China, but warned that Americans have very short attention spans. In contrast, the CCP has the attitude of you might have the watch, but weve got the time. The United States must stick with its initiatives against the CCP and adopt very robust and more significant actions to force China into good behavior, Perry said. IP Theft Sen. Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) said that in order to have access to the market of 1.4 billion people in China, some U.S. companies made a decision to give up their intellectual property. He indicated that he has less sympathy toward those companies in terms of IP theft. However, outright theft by the CCP cant be tolerated, and this is very hard to deal with through trade deals, Johnson said. The cyber theft [and] the industrial espionage of our industrial and military secrets [are] completely intolerable. Now, its pretty hard to govern that, or control that through trade agreements. They dont even admit to it. Johnson said the Chinese regime has been deploying Sun Tzus Art of War against the West for millennia, and the United States needs to wake up to that. The best defense for the United States, Johnson said, is to have a strong economy and rebuild the military. I support President Trumps strong desire to get China to adhere to world norms, trading norms, to try and get them to stop stealing our stuff, to at least acknowledge it, and to open up their markets, as open as ours are, to their products. Utterly Ruthless Brian Kennedy, chairman of the Committee on the Present Danger: China (CPDC) reminisced about attending a meeting 28 years ago of the original Committee on the Present Danger, which was devoted to countering the threat from the Soviet Union. Since then, the Peoples Republic of China (PRC) has become a formidable power, and should be taken seriously, he said. Even though the title is The Committee on the Present Danger, and it makes us sound somewhat pessimistic, Im optimistic that if the American people knew all the facts that weve been laying out, and are going to lay out for you both today and in the future, we can turn around the danger posed by the PRC, however dangerous they are, Kennedy said. While the CCP is extremely dangerous, Kennedy said its important to distinguish the Chinese people from the Chinese Communist Party. The people seem a lot like us: hard-working, decent, and willing to make sacrifices. But theyre governed by the Chinese Communist Party. And [the CCP is] utterly ruthless. Their ability to do things is unsurpassed, because theyre willing to kill, and theyre willing to intimidate. We Americans, when we see China today, we dont understand that. Kennedy said that he thinks the president understands that, and thats why he is taking a very tough stance on trade, and on rebuilding the U.S. military. Enabling the CCP Frank Gaffney, vice chairman of CPDC, said a trade agreement with China is unlikely to be fulfilled in its own terms, and will bring very dire repercussions if not done in the context of the myriad dangers that China represents. Gaffney said through the financial sector and some business leaders, U.S. funds have been used to support the CCP. We are enabling, through our underwriting, through our technology transfersvoluntary and involuntaryand through our other forms of support, the Chinese Communist Party and the regime to misrule China, out of our own pockets. And this is, of course, adding very considerable insult to the injury. While the CCP is enslaving its own people and plans to expand that to many others, we are doing the enabling of the enslaving, Gaffney said. Toronto Man Who Killed His Wife Gets Life Sentence With No Parole for 14 Years TORONTOA Toronto man who murdered his wife two days after she filed for divorce has been sentenced to life in prison with no chance of parole for 14 years. Neurosurgeon Mohammed Shamji, 43, pleaded guilty last month to second-degree murder in the death of 40-year-old Elana Fric Shamji, a well-respected family doctor. He attacked her, broke her neck and ribs, and choked her to death as their three children slept nearby. Toronto man who killed his wife gets life sentence with no parole for 14 years https://t.co/lW8mjlzpuG pic.twitter.com/BO9alOlKSp InfoNewsPenticton (@InfoNewsPentict) May 9, 2019 Shamji then stuffed his wifes body in a suitcase and dumped it in the Humber River, court heard. He went to work as usual the next morning, performing surgeries while his wife was reported missing. He was arrested a day later, after her body had been found. Court heard Fric Shamji served her husband with divorce papers two days before he attacked her. Justice John McMahon says the case is yet another tragic instance of domestic homicide that he sees far too often. Her mother told court at a sentencing hearing yesterday that Shamji destroyed their entire family, leaving them heartbroken and filled with rage. I would have died except that the children have given me a purpose to live, Fric told Shamjis sentencing hearing at a Toronto court. I see my daughter in them every day, and I talk to her at her grave site. Fric said her daughters slaying has shattered the family, leaving them heartbroken and angry. He has destroyed all of our lives, she said, wiping away tears. Elana was the child that every parent could hope for. Court heard that the Frics both came to Canada separately from Croatia and met while working at automotive plants in Windsor, Ont. They had two daughters. The family lived a modest life and Fric Shamji worked part-time jobs as a teenager to help with expenses, her mother said. She excelled at academics, earning two degrees at university in four years. Her parents thought shed become a teacher but one day, in her early 20s, Fric Shamji surprised her mother with a letter of acceptance to medical school at the University of Ottawa, court heard. Mom, arent you proud of me? Fric recalled her daughter saying at the time. Of course! Fric told her. Her Father Joe Fric struggled to speak through tears. I am an old man, almost 74 years of age, so my loss will end before too long, but the loss of the children will go on for decades and decades, he said. He said it was difficult to put into words the sorrow and pain hes endured since the day he had to identify his daughters body at the morgue. Going to identify my daughter will haunt me forever, he said. No parent should ever have to do that. Fric Shamjis sister also gave a statement to the court, staring directly at Shamji. Elana was stolen from her family, her friends, her children, her patients, her colleagues, but most importantly her three children, said Lekic. The wrong life was taken. On the surface, the couple appeared to be happy, but court heard that Shamji physically and verbally abused his wife behind closed doors. The pair got into an argument the day she died, court heard, with, Shamji enraged that his wife wanted out of the marriage, court heard. The Crown and defence had asked both the court to set the parole ineligibility period for Shamji at 14 years. Toronto man who killed his wife gets life sentence with no parole for 14 years https://t.co/SnrMqatjVy CanadianPoliticsNews (@cdnpolinews) May 9, 2019 Three young children have lost their mother forever, McMahon said. Their father has now admitted, and convicted to, killing their mother and sentenced to life in prison today. McMahon credited Shamji for his last-minute guilty plea, which saved his young daughter from testifying as a key witness at the trial. But he also condemned Shamji for the nature of the brutal murder at the couples home. I recognize there is no evidence of planning. A heated argument led to the killing, McMahon said. The nature of the violence is extreme. Actor Kip Niven died at the age of 73 on May 6, 2019. (Courtesy of Kip Niven/Facebook) Tributes Flow to the Late Kip Niven Who Acted in Magnum Force and Knight Rider An actor, who played memorable parts in films and television shows, has died at the age of 73. Family, friends, and fans will continue to remember the achievements of Kip Niven who featured in action thriller movie Magnum Force, vigilante TV series Knight Rider, drama series Law & Order, and action crime series Walker Texas Ranger to name a few. Kip Niven Dies: Magnum Force Rogue Cop & Actor In Alice, The Waltons & Sensurround Films Was 73 https://t.co/tDxfebLnq8 pic.twitter.com/Iwv4hfjQzJ Deadline Hollywood (@DEADLINE) May 9, 2019 Niven passed away after suffering a heart attack on May 6. Longtime Kansas City and 1970s Hollywood actor Kip Niven dies at 73: https://t.co/xs6pWyfL05 pic.twitter.com/RkIdIxXXqJ KCUR (@kcur) May 7, 2019 Film Director and Oscar-winning screenwriter Kevin Willmott said he would remember Niven as a great man who had amazing talent. I was fortunate to work with Kip on Jayhawkers where he played Phog Allen, Willmot said in a Facebook post dated May 6. I dont know what else to say he was just terrific! We have lost a mighty man, love you brother. Niven regularly appeared in the 1970s television show Alice and would feature in many local productions as he was well known for supporting the theater industry in Kansas City. Kip was Kansas City theater and film in many ways. He was a symbol of its heart and beauty and community, Willmott told the Kansas City Star. He was our little piece of Hollywood right here in the backyard. In between guest starring in many films, Niven founded the Equity Actors Readers Theatre (EARTh) in Kansas. In his last known post to the EARTh Facebook page, he invited all of his members to support a 2018 charity walk organized by the KC Actors Equity Association. The KC-Area Actors Equity Association Liaison Committee is putting together a team to represent AEA Members and Member Candidates in the up-coming AIDS Walk KC, on Saturday, April 28th, Niven said in a Facebook post dated April 12, 2018. If youre already on another team, march on. Well see you there. If youre not yet on a team, please consider joining ours. Fellow actor Jim Korinke was heart-broken to hear the tragic news and said Nivens death will be a big loss for the citys theater community. I am heartbroken; we have all lost a truly great performer, genuine best friend, and amazingly kind and loving person. Its very difficult to imagine a theatre community without you in it, my friend, Korinke said in a Facebook comment dated May 6. I already ache for that comforting expressive smile whenever I saw Kip, followed by those long outstretched arms pulling me in for his warm, loving hug. Musical artist Mike Webber revealed Nivens family lived not far from him and he observed the family on a regular basis. The Nivens lived down the street from us on W. 69th Terrace between Roe and Prairie Village Shopping Center, Webber said in a Facebook comment dated May 7. His mother was always such a gracious lady and he was her adoring son. Im sorry to hear of Kips passing but glad that we had the chance to know the family in that manner. History author Randy Michael Signor, a former classmate of Nevin, was devastated to hear the sad news. Oh my, Kevin; he was a classmate of mine at the University of Kansas (KU), we took a short story course and a directing class together, damn, Signor said in Facebook comment dated May 6. Longtime friend and collaborator Doug Weaver described Niven as someone who would help anyone who wished to join the theater community. Niven would also make a point of watching every show, regardless of how well known it was. The most amazing thing about Kiphe knew every actor in Kansas City, Weaver told the KC Star. He was so full of life and joy. He remembers the first time he heard of Niven was back when he was an undergraduate in KUs theater program, and watched him move to Los Angeles where he became a success. We all grew up wanting to be Kip, he said. After returning to Kansas City, Niven devoted his time to directing and performing in several shows. He had three children. Weaver pitched the idea to Niven for him to establish EARTh about seven years ago because Niven was such a great actor who would give other actors a chance to shine in their performances. [He was like] glue that held the theater world together, he said. Hes going to be incredibly missed. Actor Manon Halliburton echoed this view. Kip was a legend in his own right as a person and artist, she told the KC Star. So sorry to hear about the passing of actor Kip Niven. @libbyhanssen wrote about his life and work for @kcur in February: How To Hear Pulitzer-Winning Plays Performed By Kansas Citys Finest Actors For Free https://t.co/RDpdeZhb8w pic.twitter.com/KA1lbRc5XZ Laura Spencer (@lauraspencer) May 7, 2019 Vice President Mike Pence delivers a keynote address during Access Intelligence's Satellite 2019 Conference and Exhibition at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in Washington on May 6, 2019. (Photo by Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images) Trump Administration to Challenge Authority of Judges to Issue Nationwide Injunctions The Trump administration is looking for opportunities to have the Supreme Court clarify whether district court judges have the authority to issue nationwide injunctions, according to Vice President Mike Pence. Pence made the announcement in a May 8 speech to the conservative Federalist Society, telling the audience that President Donald Trumps administration has faced unprecedented obstruction from district court judges. The Supreme Court of the United States must clarify that the district judges can decide no more than the cases before them. And its imperative that we restore the historic tradition that district judges do not set policy for the whole nation, Pence said. In the days ahead, our administration will seek opportunities to put this very question before the Supreme Court to ensure the decisions affecting every American are made either by those elected to represent the American people or by the highest court in the land, he added. The vice president said that Trumps decisions and orders have been put on hold via injunctions mores times than the first 40 presidents combined. In many cases, the presidents orders were on hold for months before the Supreme Court threw out the injunctions. Pence argued that nationwide injunctions prevent the executive branch from carrying out its constitutional duties and imperil the separation of power principle central to the founding of the United States. He also cited a recent opinion by Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas that nationwide injunctions place an undue toll on the court system, prevent legal questions from percolating, encourage forum shopping, and turn every case into a national emergency for the Supreme Court and the executive branch. Its remarkable to think a Supreme Court justice has to convince four of their colleagues to uphold a nationwide injunction, but a single district court judge can issue one, effectively preventing the duly-elected president of the United States from fulfilling what he believes is a constitutional duty, Pence said. Pence did not specify how the administration would bring the issue before the Supreme Court. One mechanism could be to challenge a district court injunction on the basis of whether the district judge has the authority to issue an order impacting the entire nation. During his tenure as attorney general, Jeff Sessions likewise fumed about the judicial activism and judicial encroachment emanating from the district courts. He delivered a scathing speech in October 2016 denouncing federal court justices for ruling on the basis of their personal policy preferences rather than the law and the Constitution. On Nov. 20, 2018, Trump said he would file a major complaint after the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals blocked his asylum policy. The president has frequently criticized the 9th Circuit, which is broadly considered the most liberal in the federal judiciary system. Well, you go the 9th Circuit and its a disgrace. And Im going to put in a major complaint because you cannot winif youre usa case in the 9th Circuit, the president said at the time. I think its a disgrace. In a reversal of the trend, the 9th Circuit recently stayed an injunction of Trumps stay in Mexico policy, which requires asylum applicants to remain in Mexico as their claims are processed. A California judge had issued an injunction blocking the order in April. Nationwide injunctions issued by federal judges prevent the executive branch from acting, compromising the national security by obstructing the lawful ability of the president to stop threats to the homeland where he sees them, Pence said. These injunctions undermine the rule of law and the separation of powers that are central to our nations founding and lie at the very heart of our Constitution, he added. For the sake of our liberty, our security, our prosperity, and the separation of powers, this era of judicial activism must come to an end. Trump appointed four of the courts 29 judges as part of a concerted campaign to shift courts nationwide toward conservatism. The president installed two conservative justices on the Supreme Court. Trump also has appointed 103 federal court judges since his inauguration, the fastest pace of any president in history, according to Pence. TORONTO, May 09, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Sprott Resource Holdings Inc. (SRHI or the Corporation) (TSX: SRHI) reported the results of its Annual Meeting of the Corporation's shareholders (the Shareholders) held earlier today (the Meeting). SRHI is pleased to announce that all resolutions put forward in the Management Information Circular dated March 22, 2019 were approved by the Shareholders. At the Meeting, each of the following six nominees proposed by management was elected as a director of SRHI: Nominee Votes For % For Votes Withheld % Withheld Lenard F. Boggio 7,978,544 96.73 269,369 3.27 Joan E. Dunne 8,008,230 97.09 239,683 2.91 Bo Liu 8,004,189 97.05 243,724 2.95 Terrence A. Lyons 7,991,388 96.89 256,525 3.11 Arthur Richards Rule IV 7,999,809 96.99 248,104 3.01 David Smith 7,974,434 96.68 273,479 3.32 SRHI also announced that, subsequent to the Meeting, Interim President and Chief Executive Officer Michael Harrison and Andrew Stronach were appointed to the Board of Directors as nominees of Sprott Consulting LP, a subsidiary of Sprott Inc., pursuant to their nomination rights under the management services agreement between the Corporation and Sprott Consulting LP. For more information about Michael Harrison, see SRHIs press release dated May 7, 2019. Andrew Stronach serves as Managing Director, Strategy and Corporate Development at Sprott Inc. and Managing Director at SRHI. Mr. Stronach holds a Masters in Business Administration from the Rotman School of Management at the University of Toronto, a Masters of Science and a Bachelor of Science in mechanical engineering from Queens University, the ICD.D designation from the Institute of Corporate Directors and the Professional Engineering designation (P.Eng.). In addition to the election of directors, at the Meeting, Shareholders also appointed PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, Chartered Accountants, as auditors for the Corporation for the ensuing year. For further details of each of the above matters, please refer to the Management Information Circular of the Corporation dated March 22, 2019 filed under the Corporations profile on the System for Electronic Document Analysis and Retrieval (SEDAR) at www.sedar.com . About Sprott Resource Holdings Inc. SRHI is a publicly-listed diversified resource holding company focused on holding businesses in the natural resource industry. Based in Toronto, SRHI is a member of the Sprott Group of Companies and is managed by a team of leading resource professionals. SRHIs current businesses and holdings are concentrated in the mining and energy sectors. SRHI takes an active role in the businesses in which it operates and is committed to being a high-value partner to the management teams it backs and the co-investors who invest alongside SRHI. For more information about SRHI, please visit www.sprottresource.com . For further information: Glen Williams Managing Director, Investor Relations T: (416) 943-4394 E: gwilliams@sprott.com An exterior view of the GM Lordstown Plant in Lordstown, Ohio, on Nov. 26, 2018. (Jeff Swensen/Getty Images) Under Pressure From Trump, GM in Talks to Sell Idled Ohio Plant WASHINGTON/TORONTOUnder pressure from President Donald Trump, General Motors Co. said on Wednesday it was in talks to sell an idled northeast Ohio plant to a cash-strapped electric truck-building company. The No. 1 U.S. automaker also said it would invest $700 million in three other plants in Ohioa state important to Trumps re-election chances in 2020and maintain some operations at a Canadian factory that had been slated to close by year-end. The decisions came after GM faced months of criticism over its plan announced in November to close five North American plants and cut 15,000 jobs. GMs decision to close the small-car assembly plant in Lordstown, Ohio, had become fodder for Trump and several Democratic presidential candidates. Trump, who disclosed GMs plans for Lordstown in a Wednesday tweet, said the deal with Cincinnati-based Workhorse Group Inc. will require the approval of the United Auto Workers union. However, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine expressed caution. This is a step, but we have a long way to go, DeWine told reporters. He also cited Workhorses ongoing efforts to win a truck supply contract with the U.S. Postal Service as a key step. Loveland, Ohio-based Workhorse is a small electric truck and drone startup that has reported losses totaling almost $150 million since its launch in 2007, according to the companys financial documents. It had just $2.8 million in cash on hand at the end of March and reported first-quarter sales of $364,000. UAW Opposes Deal Workhorse and a newly formed entity, in which Workhorse holds a minority stake, would initially employ hundreds at the plant building a commercial electric pickup truck, Workhorse officials said. As recently as 2016, GM employed 4,500 people at the plant and in March cut the final 1,500 jobs when production of the slow-selling Chevrolet Cruze ended. Of the 2,800 hourly employees affected by the plans to end production at the four U.S. plants, 1,350 have accepted transfers to other GM plants, the company said. At Lordstown, about half of those employed when production ended have transferred elsewhere. GM also said on Wednesday it will invest $700 million and add 450 jobs at its Toledo, Parma and Moraine, Ohio, operations. Great news for Ohio, Trump tweeted. GREAT NEWS FOR OHIO! Just spoke to Mary Barra, CEO of General Motors, who informed me that, subject to a UAW agreement etc., GM will be selling their beautiful Lordstown Plant to Workhorse, where they plan to build Electric Trucks. GM will also be spending $700,000,000 in Ohio Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) May 8, 2019 GM is not reversing the bulk of its restructuring efforts, including its decision to slash 15 percent of its salaried workforce and end vehicle production at three North American plants, including Lordstown. Last week, GM ended production at a plant near Baltimore that built transmissions. GM Chief Executive Mary Barra said Workhorse could help preserve Lordstowns more than 50-year tradition of vehicle assembly work. The UAW said on Wednesday in a statement GM should add a new product at Lordstown and continue operating it, adding it would continue with its federal lawsuit against GM to protect the contractual rights of its members. Workhorse officials said they intend to work with the union, but a previously unionized plant it bought from Navistar in 2013 now operates with a non-union work force, according to the companys annual report. The fate of the Lordstown plant has been a big focus of Trumps. He spoke to Barra earlier on Wednesday before the Detroit company announced its plans in Canada. Trump in June 2017 advised workers in nearby Youngstown, Ohio, that factory jobs were not leaving. Dont move, dont sell your house, he said. It likely would take at least a year before the plant, which halted production in March, could reopen after a deal was reached, Ohios governor, DeWine, said. This potential agreement will help solidify the leadership of Workhorses role in the EV community, Workhorse CEO Duane Hughes said in the GM statement, referring to electric vehicles. Workhorse shares jumped 190 percent to $2.45 on the news, while GMs shares were almost unchanged, down 5 cents at $38.48 in late afternoon. Canadian PM: Good News Separately, GM and the largest union representing Canadas auto workers have reached a deal to partly rescue an Ontario assembly plant by turning it into a parts-making facility, the automaker said in a statement. The transformation of GMs Oshawa site, which would also be used to conduct advanced vehicle testing, would save 300 jobs and have the potential to grow and generate significant additional jobs in the coming years, GM said. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau called the announcement good news for our autoworkers. Canadian union Unifor, which had fiercely opposed the shuttering of the plant, had previously said the closure was contrary to a contract that stipulates there would be no plant closure. There are 300 families that are better off than they would have been in December, said Unifor President Jerry Dias in Toronto. By David Shepardson and Tyler Choi An exterior view of an Anthem Health Insurance facility in Indianapolis, Indiana, U.S. on Feb. 5, 2015. About 80 million company records were accessed in what may be among the largest healthcare data breaches to date. (Aaron P. Bernstein/Getty Images) US Charges Chinese National in Hacks of Anthem, Other Businesses WASHINGTONA federal grand jury charged a Chinese national in a 2015 hacking campaign that affected large U.S. businesses including insurer Anthem Inc, where the breach affected a computer system containing data on nearly 80 million people, according to an indictment unsealed on May 9. Fujie Wang, 32, and others including one individual charged as John Doe, conducted intrusions into Anthem and three other American businesses, according to the four-count indictment in federal court in Indianapolis, where Anthem is based. It did not identify the other companies by name. The hackers used sophisticated techniques to hack into the businesses computer systems and installed malware, then identified information of interest including personally identifiable information (PII) and business information. The allegations in the indictment unsealed today outline the activities of a brazen China-based computer hacking group that committed one of the worst data breaches in history, said U.S. Assistant Attorney General Brian Benczkowski. Wang and Doe were charged with conspiracy to commit fraud in relation to computers and identity theft, conspiracy to commit wire fraud, and intentional damage to a protected computer, the Justice Department said. The extremely sophisticated hacking group ultimately stole data concerning nearly 80 million people from Anthems computer networks, the Justice Department said in a statement. The information accessed included names, birthdays, social security numbers, street addresses, email addresses and employment information, including income data, it said. In July 2017, Anthem agreed to settle litigation over the breach for $115 million, which lawyers said would be the largest settlement ever for a data breach. By Doina Chiacu US Maoists Tour Venezuela, Walk Right Into Counter-Revolution Commentary As Venezuela teeters on the brink of counter-revolution, an influential delegation of U.S. Maoists from the Freedom Road Socialist OrganizationFight Back! group (FRSO-FB) is in the country building solidarity with the communist leaders of the embattled regime. FRSO-FB (not to be confused with the similarly named Freedom Road Socialist Organization/Organizacion Socialista del Camino para la Libertad) is a Midwest-based Maoist group that supports China, North Korea, Iran, Russia, Cuba, and Venezuela. The four Americans arrived in the country on April 28 in time to celebrate May Day with their revolutionary hosts. They probably didnt anticipate that on April 30, Venezuelas U.S.-recognized interim President Juan Guaido, an opponent of the countrys Marxist government, would take to the streets. Surrounded by anti-government armed troops, Guaido issued a call for the military to rise up and oust socialist dictator Nicolas Maduro. According to an internet plea for funding for the revolutionary tourists: The Freedom Road Socialist Organization is sending a delegation to Venezuela for May Day, and the delegates need your help to get there. Four labor and anti-war activists will participate in the FRSO delegation to do eyewitness reporting for [FRSO publication] Fight Back! News. Sean Orr, Tracy Molm, Tom Burke and Mark Burton will write articles, conduct interviews and produce videos. They need your support and donations to make this a success. We are asking all comrades and allies who support the Bolivarian Revolution and believe in international solidarity to help us cover our travel costs. The members of the U.S. delegation currently in Venezuela are the following: Tom Burke: Delegation leader Burke is a longtime FRSO-FB member based in Michigan. Burke has been active in Venezuela Solidarity work and has supported revolution in Colombia through the Colombia Action Network. In 2016, he was one of the lead organizers for the Coalition to Stop Trump and March on the Republican National Convention. Mark Burton: A Denver, Colorado-based lawyer and activist, Burton is a member of the Denver Peace Council, which is affiliated to the World Peace Council, a still-existing Soviet-era international communist front. Burton is also a member of the Hands-Off Syria Coalition, which supports pro-Moscow dictator Bashar al-Assad. He also serves as legal counsel for former Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) leader Simon Trinidad, who is now serving 60 years in a Colorado prison for involvement in the kidnapping of three U.S. intelligence contractors. Tracy Molm: A longtime Minneapolis FRSO-FB member, Molm traveled to the Palestinian Territories in 2004 where she observed the terrorist Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine. She is also a prominent peace activist and anti-Trump protester. Sean Orr: A younger FRSO-FB activist based in Milwaukee, Orr serves as the Venezuela correspondent for the Fight Back! newspaper. Orr is also active in the FRSO-controlled Milwaukee Anti-War Committee and is a leader of the Milwaukee Coalition Against Trump. On their first day in Venezuela, the U.S. delegation held a two-hour meeting with members of Communist Party of Venezuela (PCV) Central Committee and leaders of the Communist Youth of Venezuela. According to FRSO-FBs Fight Back! News: The groups shared their views on the revolutionary struggle in both of their countries, and the importance of international solidarity. Pedro Eusse, a PCV Politburo member and trade union leader, said If there is anything positive about the U.S. aggression we face today, it is that there has been an explosion of solidarity from the United States and around the world. Both communist organizations agreed to move towards a closer working relationship in the future. The group met with other progressive political leaders and members of Venezuelas government, including Minister of Communes Blanca Eckhout, who proudly announced the building of 2.6 million new homes in the near-destitute country. Echhout quoted Venezuelas former President Hugo Chavez to the delegates: Our new society cannot be capitalist because capitalism is designed to destroy our homeland, our society and our people. Now as the counter-revolution unfolds, the U.S. Maoists are sending pro-Maduro propaganda back to their comrades for wider dissemination. These U.S. Maoists can only be trusted to do their revolutionary duty. Truth is whatever the revolution demands. This is their side of the story, published in Fight Back! News, direct from Caracas, Venezuela: There is excitement, April 30, in the streets as tens of thousands stream towards Miraflores Palace where President Maduro leads Venezuela. While rumors of an attempted coup are broadcast on the news, special police and Venezuelan military are mobilized at key crossroads and strategic buildings. The mood is serious, but calm as the mobilization to defend President Maduro and the Bolivarian Revolution grows Early morning, we woke to hear a lone womans voice shouting, My God! My God! Freedom! This was in response to television news that coup plotter and right-wing politician Leopoldo Lopez escaped house arrest. We soon watched video of Lopez meeting U.S. puppet Juan Guiado on the highway outside of La Carlota airport. As we drove to the housing conference of the Mission Vivienda, we heard Vice President Delcy Rodriguez on the radio. Rodriguez said, We are calling all workers, all working people of the entire country, from all parts of Venezuela, to mobilize to defend our revolution and our president!' The U.S. delegates know that, at all costs, they must work to influence events in the regimes favor. In case that fails, they must attempt to preemptively smear any non-socialist government that may arise: Lopez is now an outlaw and those helping him will face arrest and imprisonment. It is possible the U.S. wants Lopez to come to Washington DC. Trump and Bolton can then direct Lopez and Guiado in their attempts to destabilize Venezuela. The U.S. wants Venezuelas oil under their control. Wall Street is also upset by the measures that provide over 2.6 million new homes in eight years, and health care for all. As we drove to an important conference on building homes, we passed a small right-wing protest of 30 people in an upper-class area in East Caracas. Working-class Venezuelans waiting for the bus were not impressed, frowning at the right-wing supporters of U.S. puppet Juan Guiado. The group also has alleged ties to several groups on the U.S. State Departments Foreign Terrorist Organization list, including the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine, the Communist Party of the Philippines/New Peoples Army, and FARC. Treason can be defined as giving aid and comfort to the enemies of the United States. It is difficult to imagine that a group of U.S. communists traveling to a communist country with the intent to assist that regime would be anything other than treasonous. Trevor Loudon is an author, filmmaker, and public speaker from New Zealand. For more than 30 years, he has researched radical left, Marxist, and terrorist movements and their covert influence on mainstream politics. Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times. Venezuelan interim president Juan Guaido, who many nations recognise as the country's rightful interim ruler, arrives on stage to deliver a speech during a meeting with workers of Venezuela's state oil company PDVSA in Caracas, Venezuela, on May 3, 2019. (REUTERS/Ueslei Marcelino) Venezuelas Guaido Says Intelligence Agents Have Kidnapped the Vice President Venezuelan interim president Juan Guaido said on Wednesday that intelligence agents had detained his deputy, the first arrest of a lawmaker since Guaido tried to spark a military uprising last week to bring down socialist dictator Nicolas Maduros regime. Edgar Zambrano, vice president of the nations duly elected National Assembly National Assembly, said on Twitter that agents from the SEBIN intelligence agency were using a tow truck to drag his vehicle, with him inside, to one of their Caracas bases. On Tuesday, the Venezuelan Constituent Assembly, which was called into existence by Maduro to rewrite the countrys 18-year-old constitution, ruled to strip Zambrano and six other lawmakers, of their parliamentary immunity to allow their future prosecution. The Supreme Court, which is criticized for being stacked with Maduros supporters, had earlier accused the lawmakers of conspiracy, rebellion, and treason, and on Wednesday accused three other pro-Guaido legislators of the same crimes. The U.S. government this week threatened to sanction all Supreme Court members. Guaido lead more mass protests last week, calling for the people of Venezuela to kick Maduro out and return the country to the people. The United States also announced more sanctions against the Maduro regime. Maduro decried the events as an attempted coup. One of the principal conspirators of the coup has just been arrested, Diosdado Cabello, head of Maduros Constituent Assembly, said in comments broadcast on state television. They will have to pay before the courts for the failed coup that they attempted, he said. Zambrano said on Twitter that SEBIN agents had surrounded his vehicle by the headquarters of his Democratic Action party in Caracas La Florida district. We were surprised by the SEBIN, and after refusing to let us leave our vehicle, they used a tow truck to forcibly transfer us directly to the (SEBIN headquarters) Helicoide, he said. It was not yet clear if Zambrano was already at the Helicoide. The regime has kidnapped the first vice president, Guaido said on Twitter. Guaido in January invoked the constitution to assume an interim presidency, denouncing Maduro as illegitimate after he secured re-election last year in a vote widely viewed as fraudulent. The Constituent Assembly removed Guaidos parliamentary immunity in early April, but authorities have not tried to arrest him since then. Earlier on Wednesday, the Supreme Courts head, Maikel Moreno, rebuffed the U.S. governments threats to sanction his courts members if they did not reject Maduros government and Guaido. The U.S. Treasury Department imposed sanctions in 2017 on Moreno and the seven principal members of the courts constitutional chamber for rulings that usurped the authority of the National Assembly. U.S. Vice President Mike Pence said on Tuesday that the Trump administration would soon sanction the 25 remaining members of the court. Pence said on Tuesday that the United States was lifting economic sanctions on a former Venezuelan general who turned against Maduro in order to encourage other Maduro allies to follow suit. In this April 13, 2018, courtroom sketch, Keith Raniere, second from right, leader of the secretive group NXIVM, attends a hearing at court in the Brooklyn borough of New York. (Elizabeth Williams via AP, File) Witness Recounts Being Forced Into Sex Act With NXIVMs Leader NEW YORKAn ex-member of the purported self-help organization NXIVM recounted how she was forced into a sexual encounter with the groups leader, Keith Raniere, as she detailed the inner workings of a secret master-slave society within the group during an hours-long testimony. The witness known as Sylvie, a British national identified by her first name only, continued describing her daily activities as a slave of the societyat some points getting visibly emotionalas day two of the ongoing trial took place inside the courtroom at the Eastern District of New York in Brooklyn. Before her testimony resumed on May 8, District Judge Nicholas Garaufis denied the defenses motion for a mistrial. Marc Agnifilo, Ranieres lead attorney, argued that witnesses who have their last name withheld wrongly paint Raniere as guilty since they are presented as victims rather than witnesses. Agnifilo claimed it would force him to follow the prosecutions line and argued it was repugnant to my theory of the case. Garaufis said it was to protect the witnesses identities from the public and the press. Sylvie, who had been a member of NXIVM for 13 years, said she later was recruited by fellow member Monica Duran into a womens only empowerment group that was actually a secret society dubbed DOS that prosecutors say was created in 2015. Duran said joining the secret society would help improve Sylvies life. In order to join, Sylvie testified that she needed to submit collateral. Hoping to join what she thought was an innocent womens group, Sylvie did not question the collateral requirements and wrote a fake letter to her family describing how she was a prostitute, with naked photos of herself attached to it. The letter, Duran said, would be put into a safe. According to court documents, the secret society allegedly operated as a pyramid scheme, with levels of slaves headed by masters. Slaves were then expected to recruit their own slaves, thus becoming masters themselves. Many of the DOS members were branded with a cauterizing pen during a process that took 20 to 30 minutes. Sylvie said that before she could be branded, the group had started to dissolve, after the media began reporting on it. Sylvie also explained how Ranieres teachings and classes, often given through the groups president, Nancy Salzman, were very misogynistic and focused on the problems of women. She said she still struggles to overcome feelings of inadequacy. It just felt a different realm of darkness, she testified, on the verge of tears. All around that time, I felt shameand still do. I just felt like everything was lies and secret and darkness. It was such a horrible time. Sylvie testified that she later got fed up of providing more and more additional collateral, and that tried to get Ranieres permission to stop sending him photos. He informed her that she could stop with the nude photos, but the next thing would be in person. Sylvie recounted one incident in which Duran, who was her master, told her to meet with Raniere at an upstate New York house. I needed to ask him to take my picture and I had to go along with whatever else happened next, Sylvie told jurors. I followed Keith into the house. From what I remember, he took me straight upstairs. She said Raniere showed her his study and later another room that had a big bed with white, dirty sheets on it. Raniere then told her to get undressed and lie on the bed. He then performed a sex act on her and took photos of her naked, mostly focused on her private parts. After the forced encounter, Raniere told me he was my grandmaster now and that he was a master of Monica, Sylvie said. Raniere told her she was special and brave, and said that if she ever needed anything, she could ask him for help as she was now part of the inner circle. The governments prosecutor, Moira Penza, then asked Sylvie during the cross-examination why she did not reject Ranieres advances. I understood that was the command of my master and that was what I was supposed to do as her slave, Sylvie replied. Throughout her testimony, she explained that she followed every order of her master and Raniere in order to stay out of trouble. As part of her assignments and instructions, Sylvie said she had to perform everyday errands for Duran and had to restrict herself to 800 calories per day. She said at one point she weighed only 89 pounds. Frank Parlato, the groups ex-publicist and whistleblower, told The Epoch Times in an interview on May 8: We continue to see the depths of depravity that was NXIVM and DOS. We see women like Sylvie, who was cross-examined today, talking about being a slave just as naturally as someone would talk about being a lumberjack or an accountant. Woman Caught on Camera Beating Bound Naked Boy Outside Smartphone footage exposed a woman beating a naked boy, whose hands were bound, on the balcony of a high-rise condo in mainland China. Police confirmed that the woman is the boys mother, but no arrests have been made, according to the Beijing News. The footage was captured on May 7 by a neighbor living in the same housing complex in Xinyang City, Henan Province. The unidentified man told the Beijing News the abuse has been going on for about two months. The neighbor, housing staff, security, and police all went to the womans home to check on the boy. But nobody answered the door and the police gave up after a second attempt of contacting the family. Im not sure of their relationship, they should be mother and son, since the boy was screaming mom!' the man who originally recorded the video told the Beijing News. A Mother Beats Her Son The boy is seen standing alone on a balcony, with his hands tied up. Hes about four- to five-years-old, the man who recorded the incident told the Beijing News. At the time, there was this white stuff tied around his hands, maybe cloth, he was out there the whole morning. The boy screamed wildly as the woman picked him up by the legs, suspending him upside down. All of what I saw was her using her hands to beat him, while she hung him upside down, the man said. The main thing is that it was for a long time, it went on for the whole morning, the man told Beijing News. The boy didnt have clothes on. Its cold here in Xinyang today, it is cloudy and the temperature had dropped. When I was recording the video from inside the house, I even felt cold. I cant even imagine for the kid who was stuck outside for several hours. The eyewitness reported the abuse to the building management and security, and the police. When they came to the womans home, she refused to open the dooreven after the police came a second time. The man wrote in a post on Weibo, Chinas version of Twitter, that this wasnt the first time the child was treated this way. There have been four times this happened in the past two months, he wrote in a screen capture of a post he made to Weibo, reported by the Beijing News. He went on to say that almost every day, he can hear the boy crying when he walks downstairs, and that it often happens in the morning, between 7 to 11 a.m. The police have not arrested the woman for beating her son, according to the Beijing News. Woman Gives Birth to 13 Pound Hercules Baby in New Zealand A New Zealand woman gave birth to a Hercules baby twice the size of an average newborn. Nicolina Newcombe delivered a 13-pound, 7-ounce boy named Tobias. According to The Mirror publication, she didnt use an epidural shot during labor. Newborns weigh about 7 pounds, 6 ounces on average. Stuff.co.nz noted that the average baby would weigh that much at around 11 weeks. Newcombe, 33, said her family had to go shopping for new clothes as none of his would fit him. Newcombes midwife, Anneka Reid, noted that its not common for newborns to weigh this much, and its even more uncommon that he was delivered without a C-section. Hes a hercules baby. I dont think that Ill have another baby that size the normal way in my career its pretty unreal, she told Stuff.co.nz. I remember looking at him on her belly and he was just enormous and when you pick him up hes just so heavy. The report noted that Newcombe isnt diabetic, and Tobias is healthy without any medical reason for his size. Its a little harder with women who are tall. Tall people seem to hide it well. She never looked enormous, Reid said, adding that the mother was about two weeks past her due date. The midwife noted that it was a blessing in a way because they didnt know the boys size. I think if we had have known there would have been a lot of pressure from (obstetrics) to have a C-section, she was quoted by The Mirror as saying. Also it puts that thought into womens head that, Oh my god hes so big. Hes not going to fit Its mind over matter, she added. Describing the labor, Newcombe said that once her midwife realized how large the child was, she pressed the emergency button and a number of doctors rushed into the room. Everybody was like wow, what a big baby and how big is he, everyone was really shocked, she told the New Zealand Herald. I had a pretty difficult pregnancy and I was always complaining and I thought man, am I soft? Is it really this bad to be pregnant? Hes so heavy I felt like my stomach was so heavy and the kicks were really sore and I was really, really tired all the time and I thought to myself that Im complaining too much, she added. Big Baby Is All Grown Up A giant, 16-pound baby made headlines when he was born in 1983. Now, as a 35-year-old man, hes still big. Kevin Robert Clark was born at 16 pounds, 6 ounces in Toms River, New Jersey, triggering a media frenzy and a torrent of headlines that said he was the largest baby born in the state, reported the New York Post. Clark told the New York Post last month that he is now 6 feet, 9 inches tall and weighs about 300 pounds. Hes a real bruiser, said his mother in a 35-year-old New York Times article, which said he was born healthy. In the report, his parents said they were both large babies upon delivery. Walking down the street, people are constantly stopping asking how tall I am, Clark recently told Inside Edition, which reported that he cant fit into most doors, shower heads are too short for him, and he cant fit inside many cars. From STAFF REPORTS Advocate for inclusion, Rev. Bruce Hitchcock will address Ferrum Colleges 103rd graduating class as commencement speaker on Saturday, May 11, at 10 a.m. in Hart International Plaza on the Colleges campus. More than 200 seniors are expected to walk the commencement stage to receive their undergraduate degrees. Hitchcock, who currently serves as Ohio Valley District superintendent, said he believes a Christian [can be] a brother and a sister of someone who has a different thought. We have to discover God within, in other people, and all around us, and the more we do that, the more human, the more decent, the more compassionate we become. United Methodist Church Bishop Tracy Malone described Hitchcock as a visionary leader, a strategic thinker, and one who brings many learning and experiences from serving in a variety of ministry settings. He has a deep faith and has demonstrated throughout his ministry a strong commitment to discipleship, evangelism, and mission. Ferrum President David Johns met Hitchcock during their college days and the two remained in contact throughout the years. I am pleased Bruce Hitchcock will join us for this years commencement ceremony, said Johns. We both grew up in Ohio and I am eager to introduce him to Virginias Blue Ridge and to the fine people of Ferrum College. NEW YORK, May 09, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Pomerantz LLP is investigating claims on behalf of investors of Mobile TeleSystems Public Joint Stock Company (Mobile TeleSystems or the Company) (NYSE: MBT). Such investors are advised to contact Robert S. Willoughby at rswilloughby@pomlaw.com or 888-476-6529, ext. 9980. The investigation concerns whether Mobile TeleSystems and certain of its officers and/or directors have engaged in securities fraud or other unlawful business practices. [Click here to join a class action] On November 20, 2018, Mobile TeleSystems disclosed that it had reserved approximately $840 million to cover potential liability concerning investigations by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and Department of Justice (DOJ) into the Companys former operations in Uzbekistan. On this news, Mobile TeleSystems American depositary receipt (ADR) price fell $0.64 per share, or nearly 8%, to close at $7.45 per share on November 20, 2018. Then, on March 7, 2019, the DOJ announced that Mobile TeleSystems and its subsidiary had entered into an agreement with the DOJ and SEC to pay a combined $850 million in penalties to resolve charges arising from its role in a scheme to pay $420 million in bribes in Uzbekistan. Following this announcement, Mobile TeleSystems ADR price fell $0.24 per share, or 3.08%, to close at $7.54 per share on March 7, 2019, damaging investors. The Pomerantz Firm, with offices in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, and Paris, is acknowledged as one of the premier firms in the areas of corporate, securities, and antitrust class litigation. Founded by the late Abraham L. Pomerantz, known as the dean of the class action bar, the Pomerantz Firm pioneered the field of securities class actions. Today, more than 80 years later, the Pomerantz Firm continues in the tradition he established, fighting for the rights of the victims of securities fraud, breaches of fiduciary duty, and corporate misconduct. The Firm has recovered numerous multimillion-dollar damages awards on behalf of class members. See www.pomerantzlaw.com. CONTACT: Robert S. Willoughby Pomerantz LLP rswilloughby@pomlaw.com #ThrowbackThursday is part of an ongoing series highlighting the culture of Connecticut throughout the past few decades. Whether you remember the times of riding the antique carousel at Lighthouse Point Park, attending the Gathering of the Vibes Festival at Seaside Park, or walking across the sandbar to Charles Island, there is a plethora of memories to be had on Connecticut's shoreline. WESTPORT The death of an 86-year-old Trumbull man, whose body was found along Beachside Avenue Thursday morning, is not being treated as suspicious, according to police officials. Police Lt. Jillian Cabana said the man was identified as Antonio Dopoco. Dopocos body was found by a Westport resident around 8:45 a.m. near Southport beach, close to the Fairfield-Westport town line. Upon arrival, officers located an elderly white male lying prone approximately 150 feet from the roadway, Cabana said. He was pronounced deceased by Westport EMS on scene. His body was later taken to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner for an autopsy. Beachside Avenue was closed to all through traffic while police investigated Thursday morning. Residents of the area were allowed access. Around 10 a.m., Beachside Avenue was reopened to traffic. The Westport police Detective Bureau continues to investigate. The discovery of Dopocos body comes nearly a year to the day when another body was found washed ashore in Westport. On May 4, 2018, a mans body was found on Harbor Road at Saugatuck Shores by a jogger. The shore off Harbor Road where the body was found is a few hundred feet from the Saugatuck Harbor Yacht Club and across the harbor from Longshore Park. That body was indentified as Gregory Garoffolo, 60, of Westport. Garoffolos vehicle was found abandoned on the I-95 bridge over the Saugatuck River during the early morning hours of May 4. State Police had towed it. Police said there was no foul play in Garoffolos death. NEW CANAAN Two town police officers saved a person who was overdosing on Wednesday. Sgt. Aaron LaTourette and Officer Ron Bentley arrived less than three minutes after being dispatched to a report of an unresponsive person. The officers suspected an opioid overdose, and administered Narcan, a drug that counteracts opioids, and performed CPR. The person started breathing, regained consciousness, and was transported to the hospital by the New Canaan Volunteer Ambulance Corps. LaTourette and Bentley will receive the departments Medical Lifesaving Award, according to Police Chief Leon Krolikowski. LaTourette was among several first responders recognized for saving a man suffering from a heart episode in 2017. Thanks to their training, professionalism and expert care they saved a life, the chief said. We are proud of how these officers embody our mission. Krolikowski thanked Silver Hill Hospital for funding the New Canaan Police Narcan program and providing the training. This community partnership has saved several lives, he said. NORWALK As the one-year anniversary of his death approaches, family members of a Connecticut State Police trooper who died last year were presented with the Shields Medal of Valor. On May 5, the family of Walter Greene was presented with the Shields Medal of Valor by the New York State Shields Executive Board for his actions on 9/11. The recipients were Suzanne Greene, his wife; Ted Greene, his father; and Danet Gaithers, his stepmother. After the terrorist attack on Sept. 11, 2001, firefighters and police officers from the New York City region responded to lower Manhattan to help with rescue efforts. Among those to respond from Connecticut was Greene, a Connecticut State Police Trooper First Class. Greene, who lived in Norwalk, was part of the state police team that drove from Connecticut straight to Ground Zero to help. State police said Greene was responsible for transporting family members to/from Ground Zero and escorting loads of debris from the area. On June 30, 2016, Greene was diagnosed with Stage 4 KRAS wild-type metastatic colorectal cancer. His doctors told him the cancer was caused by exposure to toxins from the World Trade Center site, according to state police. On May 31, 2018, he lost his battle with cancer at the age of 51. Gone but not forgotten, state police said in a Facebook post about Greene on Tuesday. After Greenes death, then Gov. Dannel P. Malloy ordered U.S. and state flags across Connecticut to be lowered to half-staff in Greenes honor. Hundreds of people attended his funeral. Greene was a member of the 101st training troop. Before he was unable to work because of his diagnosis and treatment, Greene was most recently assigned to the Traffic Services Unit of state police. He joined state police on June 1, 1990, and was initially assigned to Troop A in Southbury, and then Troop G in Bridgeport. After that, he moved to the Statewide Cooperative Crime Control Task Force before serving a majority of the latter part of his career in the traffic unit. Beyond his 27 years as a state trooper, Greene spent four years in the U.S. Marines as a scout sniper. Prior to his death, Greene lived with his family in West Norwalk. He and his wife lost their daughter Taylor Greene on Feb. 22, 2017, at the age of 22. She died from a pulmonary embolism, her obituary said. A scholarship in Greenes daughters name lives on at Central Connecticut State University, where she attended the Taylor Greene Scholarship. AURORA, Ontario, May 09, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Magna International Inc. (TSX: MG; NYSE: MGA) today announced voting results from its 2019 annual meeting of shareholders. A total of 244,128,107 Common Shares or 75.56% of our issued and outstanding Common Shares were represented in person or by proxy at the meeting. Shareholders voted by a show of hands in favour of each item of business other than the shareholder proposal. Voting results were as follows for the items of business addressed at the meeting: a. Election of Directors Nominee Votes FOR Nominee Votes FOR Scott B. Bonham 98.26% William A. Ruh 98.00% Peter G. Bowie 99.78% Dr. Indira V. Samarasekera 98.05% Mary S. Chan 99.49% Donald J. Walker 99.93% Dr. Kurt J. Lauk 99.74% Lisa S. Westlake 99.93% Robert F. MacLellan 78.52% William L. Young 98.08% Cynthia A. Niekamp 99.87% b. Other Items of Business Item Votes FOR Reappointment of Deloitte 99.76% Say on Pay 84.27% Shareholder Proposal 7.79% Based on the voting results, each of the 11 nominees was elected with a substantial majority. Similarly, Deloitte was reappointed as Magnas independent auditors and the Say on Pay resolution was approved, in each case by a substantial majority. Finally, the shareholder proposal was rejected by a substantial majority. Detailed voting results are included as Appendix A to this press release. INVESTOR CONTACT Louis Tonelli, Vice-President, Investor Relations louis.tonelli@magna.com 905.726.7035 MEDIA CONTACT Tracy Fuerst, Director of Corporate Communications & PR tracy.fuerst@magna.com 248.631.5396 OUR BUSINESS (1) We are a mobility technology company. We have more than 169,000 entrepreneurial-minded employees and 338 manufacturing operations and 89 product development, engineering and sales centres in 28 countries. We have complete vehicle engineering and contract manufacturing expertise, as well as product capabilities which include body, chassis, exterior, seating, powertrain, active driver assistance, electronics, mirrors & lighting, mechatronics and roof systems. Magna also has electronic and software capabilities across many of these areas. Our common shares trade on the Toronto Stock Exchange (MG) and the New York Stock Exchange (MGA). For further information about Magna, visit www.magna.com . (1) Manufacturing operations, product development, engineering and sales centres and employee figures include certain equity-accounted operations. Appendix A VOTING RESULTS - 2019 ANNUAL MEETING OF SHAREHOLDERS Resolution Votes For Votes Withheld/Against # % # % Elect Scott B. Bonham as Director 223,883,870 98.26 3,954,062 1.74 Elect Peter G. Bowie as Director 227,330,563 99.78 507,369 0.22 Elect Mary S. Chan as Director 226,682,905 99.49 1,155,026 0.51 Elect Dr. Kurt J. Lauk as Director 227,236,140 99.74 601,792 0.26 Elect Robert F. MacLellan as Director 178,908,214 78.52 48,929,718 21.48 Elect Cynthia A. Niekamp as Director 227,533,201 99.87 304,730 0.13 Elect William A. Ruh as Director 223,279,152 98.00 4,558,780 2.00 Elect Dr. Indira V. Samarasekera as Director 223,389,757 98.05 4,448,176 1.95 Elect Donald J. Walker as Director 227,674,873 99.93 163,058 0.07 Elect Lisa S. Westlake as Director 227,669,997 99.93 167,935 0.07 Elect William L. Young as Director 223,468,616 98.08 4,369,316 1.92 Re-Appointment of Deloitte LLP as Auditors 243,541,983 99.76 579,458 0.24 Advisory Resolution on Executive Compensation 191,996,600 84.27 35,841,324 15.73 Shareholder Proposal 17,750,083 7.79 210,087,818 92.21 NORWALK A three-way land swap involving the Norwalk Redevelopment Agency, the First Taxing District and a private business is back under discussion. The proposal would allow for local business Evaritos, located on Main Street, to have outdoor dining on a small portion of the 50 Washington Street park, which is currently under renovation. In order to make up for those few feet of leased park space, the city would acquire the remaining portion of Klondike Park along east bank of the Norwalk River, below the Wall Street Bridge, from the First Taxing District and the city would hand over the traffic island at the edge of the Norwalk Green along East Avenue. 50 Washington Park is a designated park were working on it, Lisa Burns, principal engineer for the city, said. Evaritos wants to have outdoor dining here, but its a park so you cant technically so to be able to use this for a non-public park purpose. The restaurant would only utilize a small portion of the park, closest to its building, Burns said. In February, Tim Sheehan, executive director of the Redevelopment Agency, said at a public meeting that his agency was working on an agreement between the business and the city, which would allow them to lease and utilize a portion of the property. If the city and the business come to terms, the city would be required to provide the equivalent amount of park land, Burns said. It was identified that First Taxing District has this park, Klondike Park, she said, pointing to a small area of land. So there is this piece of property here the First Taxing District owns. Its called Klondike Park this little piece of property you wouldnt even know its there. Burns said that the land could be beneficial to her department because in order to do any maintenance on the bridge, they have to get permission from the First Taxing District to use that space. The same idea for the swap was tossed around in April 2018, but never came to fruition. If acquired, the Redevelopment Agency had proposed turning Klondike Park into an extension of Irving C. Freese Park on the north side of Wall Street. The first step for the current proposal to move forward, however, was tabled by the Common Councils Public Works Committee this week because members said that they needed get some more information about the reasoning behind the swap and what documentation needed to be in place. It might make sense but we dont have the information, Council President Tom Livingston said at the meeting held on Tuesday. Livingston said he had spoken with city officials about the idea of swapping the Klondike Park piece for the traffic island, which has been proposed before, but did not include the 50 Washington Street part. That was the piece for many members that didnt make sense in the proposal. Councilman Douglas Hempstead said he believed this should have been brought up to the councils Land Use or Parks and Recreation committees. Hempstead said that the city officials should have come to one of those commitees and said, were thinking about trying to do this swap and heres how this works. It seems like somebody skipped talking to the council, Hempstead said. The committee had been asked to move forward the abandonment of the East Avenue property for a public hearing, but the committee voted to table it and get more information at its next meeting in June, before moving forward. When you schedule a public hearing, I like to have an idea of what were trying to accomplish and then acquire public input, Corsello said. At this juncture I have no idea what were trying to accomplish. kelly.kultys@hearstmediact.com HARTFORD After nearly 16 years of court battles, Carolyne Hynes of Weston has been granted access to the $1.3 million awarded to her daughter after the girls father was killed in the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks. On Wednesday, the Connecticut Supreme Court ruled unanimously to overturn lower court rulings and give Hynes the right to distribute money that the September 11th Victims Compensation Fund awarded to her now-17-year-old daughter in 2001. We agree with the plaintiff that the Probate Court lacked subject matter jurisdiction to appoint a guardian of the minor childs estate, wrote Chief Justice Richard A. Robinson in the courts opinion. The Connecticut Supreme Court ruled that the awarded funds had been granted to Hynes as a representative payee, which means the money was not subject to the probate courts oversight. As a result, the court also dismissed the funds court-appointed guardian, Sharon Jones. She (Hynes) is very pleased with the decision, Michael Kaelin, a Stamford attorney representing Hynes, said. Were just really grateful that they decided to hear the case, and that they decided the way they did. On Sept. 22, 2001, Congress created a compensation fund to help 9/11 victims and survivors. Through the fund, Hynes, who had been pregnant at the time of her husbands death at the World Trade Center, received $2.4 million for the death of her husband $1.3 million of which was allocated for her daughter. In 2003, the Norwalk Probate Court appointed Hynes guardian of the childs estate and administrator of her late husbands estate. However, in that same ruling, the court also appointed a separate guardian to oversee the childs interests. As a result, Hynes had been barred from using any of her daughters award to provide for her upbringing. A Superior Court dismissed an appeal filed by Hynes to free up the money and a state Appellate Court affirmed that decision, ruling the fund should be treated as an asset of the estate and the Probate Court could assert jurisdiction and control over the award. The Connecticut Supreme Court agreed to hear the case in September 2018. Hynes, who had lived in Norwalk at the time proceedings began, has since moved to a home in Weston. The family could not be reached for comment. This editorial appears in The Washington Post - - - President Donald Trump has been suggesting recently that he's interested in negotiating a reduction of nuclear weapons stockpiles. After speaking Friday with Russian President Vladimir Putin, Trump said they discussed "a nuclear agreement" in which "we get rid of some of the tremendous firepower that we have right now." On April 4, meeting with China's vice premier, Liu He, Trump said, "Between Russia and China and us, we're all making hundreds of billions of dollars' worth of weapons, including nuclear, which is ridiculous." If he's serious, it is important that Trump focus on practical measures to reduce the nuclear danger, not negotiating feints. The Washington Post reported April 25 that Trump has "ordered his administration to prepare a push for new arms-control agreements with Russia and China." The exact nature of his order isn't known, but Trump is right to be concerned that many areas of nuclear weapons and systems to deliver them are not covered by treaties and agreements. Soon, the 1987 Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty between the United States and Russia will be history; the Trump administration pulled the plug, saying Russia violated it with a new, prohibited ground-based cruise missile system. Shorter-range nonstrategic or tactical nuclear weapons, such as gravity bombs, of which Russia has a large stockpile and the United States fewer, have never been covered by a treaty. China, which has avoided nuclear-arms-control treaties, possesses a relatively small nuclear arsenal of about 300 warheads but has in recent years embarked on an aggressive spree of building new weapons systems, including cruise and other missiles. China has been given a pass for too long, and negotiations could fruitfully bring some transparency and verification to its opaque yet growing might. All these important and worthy goals for negotiation will be extremely difficult and time-consuming. Before Trump reaches for the moon, he should tackle extension of the 2010 New START accord with Russia that limits strategic nuclear weapons and expires in February 2021. This treaty has proved successful and worthwhile, limiting both sides to 1,550 deployed warheads and 700 delivery vehicles; it's a cap on the most threatening nuclear weapons, those that can span the globe in tens of minutes. If Trump really wants to avert nuclear dangers, this is the place to begin. So far, he hasn't done much. A more worrisome prospect is that Trump is raising the most difficult nuclear arms control challenges because he knows they can't easily be addressed. John Bolton, the national security adviser, has criticized international treaties that tie the hands of the United States and once called the New START limits on weapons launchers "profoundly misguided." Are Bolton and Trump really getting ready to roll up their sleeves for more arms control, or is the latest talk just a disingenuous tactic to avoid it? KEARNEY The Museum of Nebraska Art will host Junior Curator Show: Underscoring: Line, from May 10 through Aug. 11. A select group of high school students has worked with the museum staff to conceptualize, select and install an exhibition of artworks drawn from MONAs collection. The experiential learning expands their knowledge of art, museums and careers. The curation process begins with an exploration of the role of the visual elements in an artwork. Each element functions uniquely, line being perhaps the most ubiquitous. A reception is set for 4 p.m. Friday. The Junior Curator Show is sponsored by the MONA Guild. The Museum of Nebraska Art, 2401 Central Ave., is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and noon to 5 p.m. Sunday; it is closed Mondays and major holidays. There is no admission charge. The Museum of Nebraska Art celebrates the history of Nebraskas visual art for diverse audiences. MONA collects, preserves, researches, exhibits and interprets the work of artists who were born, lived, trained or worked in Nebraska or who created artworks that reflect the culture of Nebraska. Seventh-graders Jocelyn Morris and Madeline Tompkins said the social media committee made a video to help spread the message about why it is important to donate blood. Morris said the committee has made 10 to 15 videos this school year to promote school events such as the blood drive. With the (blood drive) video, we had to come up with an outline of what we wanted to do. Our group brainstormed ideas of what we might want to have in it, Morris said. From there, another student and I wrote a script. The next day or two, we went out and filmed the video. Each video has a skit in it. Tompkins said the blood drive promotion video included a skit that is supposed to be funny. In the video, she said, a Westridge student talks about how their classmates can get sunglasses by referring people to donate blood at the drive. The skits are supposed to be funny, so the students are actually involved, Tompkins said. Once the video was made, she said Morris sent the video to her to get out to the entire school. Morris said it took the social media committee about three days to make the video to promote Wednesdays blood drive. NEW YORK, May 09, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Pomerantz LLP is investigating claims on behalf of investors of Sprint Corporation (Sprint or the Company) (NYSE: S). Such investors are advised to contact Robert S. Willoughby at rswilloughby@pomlaw.com or 888-476-6529, ext. 9980. The investigation concerns whether Sprint and certain of its officers and/or directors have engaged in securities fraud or other unlawful business practices. On April 15, 2019, Sprint filed a letter with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) regarding the Applications of T-Mobile US, Inc. and Sprint Corporation for Consent to Transfer Control of Licenses and Authorizations, WT Docket No. 18-197 (the FCC Letter). The FCC Letter disclosed, in relevant part, that due to weak network infrastructure and a subscriber base prone to seeking better deals from Sprints competitors, Sprints current performance would be unsustainable if the Company failed to merge with T-Mobile US, Inc. Following the submission of the FCC Letter, Sprints stock price fell $0.22 per share, or 3.61%, to close at $5.88 on April 15, 2019. On April 16, 2019, the Wall Street Journal published an article entitled T-Mobile-Sprint Deal Runs Into Resistance From DOJ Antitrust Staff, which referenced the FCC Letter and reported its contents. Following publication of the Wall Street Journal article, Sprints stock price fell $0.37, or 6.16%, to close at $5.64 on April 17, 2019. The Pomerantz Firm, with offices in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, and Paris, is acknowledged as one of the premier firms in the areas of corporate, securities, and antitrust class litigation. Founded by the late Abraham L. Pomerantz, known as the dean of the class action bar, the Pomerantz Firm pioneered the field of securities class actions. Today, more than 80 years later, the Pomerantz Firm continues in the tradition he established, fighting for the rights of the victims of securities fraud, breaches of fiduciary duty, and corporate misconduct. The Firm has recovered numerous multimillion-dollar damages awards on behalf of class members. See www.pomerantzlaw.com. CONTACT: Robert S. Willoughby Pomerantz LLP rswilloughby@pomlaw.com HASTINGS At its late-April meeting, the Hastings College Board of Trustees unanimously approved a new four-year contract with Hastings College President Dr. Travis Feezell, and appointed Dr. Barbara Sunderman the vice president for academic affairs, a position she has held on an interim basis since August 2018. Feezell was named the 17th President of the College in November 2016 and officially began in that role in June 2017. Since then, Hastings College has moved through a visioning process and announced significant new initiatives that launch fully in the fall. When Dr. Feezell was appointed president of the college, he was charged with moving the College in a direction that meets future students needs and creating an innovative and bold new path forward, said Glen A. Moss, chairman of the Hastings College Board of Trustees. The board encouraged Dr. Feezell to move quickly, and we fully support the pace of change and the direction he is leading the college. We are excited to see implemented what is known as Hastings 2.0 beginning this fall. The initiatives, from travel to technology to an innovative academic plan, are creative, bold and exactly the direction we need to go as an institution. Lt. Russell Lewis has been promoted to captain in command of the Nebraska State Patrol Division in Troop C, based in Grand Island. Lewis, 47, was most recently assigned to Internal Affairs, stationed in Lincoln. Capt. Lewis is a tremendous asset to our agency, Col. John Bolduc, superintendent of the State Patrol, said in a release. His positions in both Internal Affairs and the Police Service Dog Division have demonstrated his ability to lead and will prove valuable in this new role. Lewis began his career with the State Patrol in 1998 stationed in Fremont with NSP Carrier Enforcement. He has since served in the Patrol Division in Omaha, the Police Service Dog Division in Sidney and Grand Island, and eventually Internal Affairs in Lincoln. Im excited to return to Grand Island and work with the dedicated troopers of Troop C, Lewis said in the release. Central Nebraska has tremendous communities and our troopers will continue to serve the people of Central Nebraska with professionalism and diligence. Troop C is comprised of 16 counties in south central Nebraska. He succeeds Capt. Sean Caradori, who oversaw Troop H, based in Lincoln, and Troop C. Caradori continues to lead Troop H. AARP Nebraska and the Better Business Bureau (BBB) will host a special program on disaster preparedness and the kinds of scams that target the survivors of a disaster in Grand Island on Wednesday, May 15. The program, Weathering A Storm: Disaster Prevention and Recovery, will inform residents about how to prepare for and recover from natural disasters like tornadoes, floods, fires, severe hail and snow storms. The speakers will discuss emergency preparedness for older adults and how to avoid scams in the aftermath of disasters. The event will be held from 10 to 11:30 a.m. at Bosselman Enterprises, 107 S. Locust St., Suite A. There is no cost to attend but space is limited. Registration is required by Friday, May 10, at aarp.cvent.com/Disasters_GI515 or call 1-877-926-8300 toll free. Refreshments are included. Dr. Renea Gernant, an assistant professor at Bellevue University and an expert on older adults and vulnerable adults in disaster, will discuss measures people should take before a natural disaster strikes. BBB presenters Margo Riekes and Jeff Niebaum will cover disaster-related scams involving traveling contractors, insurance claims hazards, phony charities and more. Each attendee will receive BBBs ReBUILD with TRUST publication on disaster fraud and scams at no cost. Police/Sheriff Anyone with information about any crime in the state may call the Grand Island-Hall County Crime Stoppers, (308) 381-8822. Callers will remain anonymous. A reward of up to $1,000 will be paid after law enforcement agencies have determined the seriousness of the crime and the usefulness of the information. Inmate custody status can be obtained by calling the VINE hotline at (877) NE 4 VINE or by visiting www.vinelink.com. Information is available 24 hours a day. If you see a crime happening, call the Grand Island-Hall County Emergency Center 911. Grand Island Police The following felonies were reported: A woman reported that her 5-year-old daughter was being abused by her stepmother on South Oak Street. A 25-year-old female was referred for intentional child abuse. A 27-year-old male was referred for child neglect. William Rork and Carissa Perkins reported that they are victims of an Internet scam. The case is open. The implications are obvious. For many jobs and careers it will no longer be necessary to attend a four-year college, pay high tuition, along with room and board, and graduate with crushing debt that will take years, perhaps decades, to pay off. Some other findings from Georgetowns research that will be helpful as young people seek an education tailored to job requirements include: Job openings in health care, community services and STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) will grow the fastest among occupational clusters. Judgment/decision-making, communications, analysis and administration will be the four most in-demand competencies in the labor market. The demand for physical skills has continued to decline over time, except for near vision, which is necessary to read computer screens and other types of documentation. Even those who choose to pursue college degrees will benefit from knowing the types of jobs they can expect to get and design their education to fit those necessities. GODFREY Due to inclement weather, The Malpass Brothers were forced to cancel their originally scheduled concert on March 3. But they will now be bringing their brand of country music to town at 7:30 p.m., Tuesday, May 28 at Lewis and Clark Community College, presented by the Greater Alton Concert Association. All previously purchased tickets will be honored. Starting their musical careers before the age of 10, The Malpass Brothers have played with many of the great names of Nashville, including touring with Merle Haggard. The two perform some of their own original music, as well as the music of their country idols like Haggard, Hank Williams, Johnny Cash and the Louvin Brothers. They have a stage presence that reminds people of The Smothers Brothers, said Barb McHugh, GACAs vice president of promotions. There is an easy comedy to their conversation that just flows along with the music. And its one of the best country music shows Ive seen (and heard) in a long time, she added. Christopher and Taylor Malpass have played their music around the country and the world.Yet they are still the humble country boys they always were, growing up in North Carolina, listening to old-time country music with their grandfather. Their mom was a teacher; their dad a mechanic, and they spent a lot of time at their grandfathers business or their grandparents house. The traditional country and gospel music that their grandfather played inspired them to become musicians and to stick with the style they had both grown up on. And they both like the fact that country music tells a story - the music speaks to them and speaks to the souls of its listeners. They have been playing together since they were teenagers, with Christopher on acoustic guitar and Taylor playing mandolin and electric lead guitar. They developed a signature look of high, brushed back hair that is often a subject of conversation and a hit with fans along with their music. A documentary film, The Malpass Brothers: Heading Home tells the story of the brothers fast rise and how they built their career. Their latest CD and live-performance DVD were recorded at their hometown Paramount Theatre in Goldsboro, North Carolina, during the production of the documentary. Individual concert tickets for The Malpass Brothers are $25 in advance; $30 at the door. Tickets for students with valid ID are $10. For more information or a list of ticket outlets, visit greateraltonconcertassociation.org or call 618-468-4222. VANCOUVER, British Columbia, May 09, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Finning International Inc. (TSX:FTT) announces the voting results from its Annual Meeting of Shareholders held on Tuesday, May 07, 2019 in Vancouver, British Columbia. A total of 163,384,595 common shares were represented at the meeting, representing 76.87% of the Companys outstanding shares as at the record date. Shareholders voted in favour of all items of business before the meeting, including the appointment of auditors with authorization of the directors to fix the auditors remuneration, acceptance of Finnings approach to executive compensation, and the election of each of the directors. Detailed results of the ballot vote for the election of directors are provided below: Director Nominee Votes for Percent Votes Withheld Percent Vicki Avril 124,667,560 99.73% 336,958 .27% Marcelo A. Awad 124,040,510 99.23% 964,008 .77% James E.C. Carter 124,195,029 99.35% 809,489 .65% Jacynthe Cote 124,719,156 99.77% 285,362 .23% Nicholas Hartery 124,709,035 99.76% 295,483 .24% Mary Lou Kelley 124,708,426 99.76% 296,092 .24% Harold N. Kvisle 123,639,864 98.91% 1,364,654 1.09% Stuart L. Levenick 124,716,895 99.77% 287,623 .23% Kathleen M. ONeill 123,844,982 99.07% 1,159,536 .93% Christopher W. Patterson 124,715,202 99.77% 289,316 .23% Edward R. Seraphim 124,717,236 99.77% 287,282 .23% L. Scott Thomson 124,034,912 99.22% 969,606 .78% About Finning: Finning International Inc. (TSX:FTT) is the world's largest Caterpillar equipment dealer delivering unrivalled service to customers for 85 years. Finning sells, rents and provides parts and service for equipment and engines to help customers maximize productivity. Headquartered in Vancouver, B.C., the Company operates in Western Canada, Chile, Argentina, Bolivia, the United Kingdom and Ireland. Contact Information: Those cutting their grass this summer might want to be more conscientious of where their clippings land. Jacksonville officials have begun cracking down on those who intentionally blow yard debris into the street. Jacksonville officials, including Jacksonville police and the Jacksonville Street Department are asking residents to clean up grass clippings and other yard debris that fall into the street to increase safety for bicyclists and motorcyclists, as well as aid in the prevention of clogged drains and flooding. The police department has begun a social media campaign asking for voluntary compliance from residents, police Chief Adam Mefford said. Lawn clippings that end up in the roadway create a hazard for motorists, bicyclists and motorcyclists, Mefford said. Wet grass becomes slick and it can cause an accident. It also causes clogging in the drains and can lead to flooding. According to city ordinance, it is unlawful for any person to place or deposit any leaves, grass clippings, or other vegetation in or upon any street, ditch, or gutter. Municipal Services Superintendent Les Ballenger said the street department spent three weeks clearing drains throughout the city. It can take between 30 to 45 minutes to clean each drain, and there are several hundred in town, Ballenger said. Debris builds up in the pipes and the water doesnt flow correctly and then we get flooding, like we saw last week. While the street department runs a street sweeper as often as it can, Ballenger said help from the community goes a long way to helping to prevent clogged drains. Police and code enforcement officers will be issuing citations for the violations when it becomes blatantly obvious that someone is intentionally blowing grass into the road, Mefford said. We understand that wind blows clippings in the roadway we arent citing for that, Mefford said. We dont want to have to be out chasing down these ordinance violations, but you can be cited for it. Wed prefer that to be a last resort. Large amounts of lawn debris can be taken to the Jacksonville brush drop-off on North Church Street, north of the Morgan County Animal Shelter. Mefford said cleaning up streets can prevent an accident. We dont want an accident that is completely preventable to take place, Mefford said. Were just asking that people not deliberately blow (clippings) into the road. Samantha McDaniel-Ogletree can be reached at 217-245-6121, ext. 1233, or on Twitter @JCNews_samantha. EDWARDSVILLE The Edwardsville High School Drama Club look to celebrate their efforts at a regional ceremony as its spring musical, Anything Goes has been nominated for four St. Louis High School Musical Theatre Awards. The four nominations are for Outstanding Direction, Outstanding Choreography, Outstanding Musical Direction, and Outstanding Costume Design and Execution. The group was notified last week after adjudicators attended and watched the performance of Anything Goes back in April, explained Ashley Melton, EHS drama director. Last night we attended the Fox Theatre for the Medallion Ceremony which is where you accept your nominations and they give you a really shiny, huge medallion and so we are hanging those on our wall of shows with each show shirt. We kind of have a repertoire going now with medallions hanging on the wall, Melton noted. Melton, Emily Ottwein, EHS musical director for the play, and Leta DeBardeleben, EHS student stage manager, attended the medallion ceremony. DeBardeleben filled in for costume director Jen Blum-Tatara who could not attend. EHS will learn if they have won a final award during a presentation at 4 p.m. June 2 at The Fox Theatre in St. Louis. Tickets for this event are currently on sale through The Fox Theatres website for $25 per person. We do have two students who were selected from our cast to perform in the opening number at that ceremony, Melton noted. Adda Morrocco and Sophie Jobe will be representing EHS in the opening number at The Fox. Directors from the schools that participated in the competition chose students to perform in the opening number. We, the directors, pick students who were ineligible for other awards but really represented our schools well and were awesome members of our ensemble. So Ms. Ottwein and I picked those two members to represent our school, Melton said. This was the second year that EHS has participated in the St. Louis High School Musical Theatre Awards. Last year, the EHS production of Mary Poppins was nominated for seven awards, and the EHS Drama students were selected to perform a number from that production at the ceremony hosted at the Fox. So we have fewer nominations this year, but there are definitely way more schools represented in the program this year, Melton pointed out. Now its a sponsored event and is getting much more publicity. There were 36 schools we were competing against this year rather than last year, I think it was 20. So, its becoming a much bigger thing. I think our kids are of course disappointed that they dont get to perform at The Fox (this year), but we had a brief meeting after the nominations came out and I said, You know, you cannot be an excellent director or an excellent choreographer without an incredible cast to execute the work youve put in front of them, Melton said. Im really proud of our kids because this kind of recognition is big, and its part of a national conversation because the winners of the ceremony go to New York and represent their state nationally. So Im just really happy to be part of something like this. In honor of National Small Business Week, organizations are recognizing the importance of these establishments in the local community. Small businesses employ the majority of our workforce and are the economic engine of any community. No area can succeed and grow without small business owners dedicated to their customers and community, Director of Illinois Metro East Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, Jo Ann Di Maggio May, said. SBDC hosted an event Tuesday to celebrate local small businesses. Days like today allow businesses to network with professionals and other business owners to learn from each other and excel their companies, Di Maggio May said. The Edwardsville/Glen Carbon Chamber of Commerce continues to help local businesses. During Small Business Week we continue supporting our members as we do throughout the year, paying particular attention to any special promotions or events they are having, President and CEO of Edwardsville/Glen Carbon Chamber of Commerce, Desiree Bennyhoff, said. To celebrate National Small Business Week, Bennyhoff said the chamber intends to reach out to people on their Facebook page: Love LOCAL - Ed/Glen Shop Chamber. On our Shop Local Facebook page, we are going to ask people to provide testimonials on why they shop local, Bennyhoff said. We will then have a drawing where a lucky testimonial provider will win gift cards to local stores. President Donald Trump recently announced National Small Business Week 2019 would take place May 5-11. Each year the president recognizes small businesses and their part in growing the economy by dedicating a week to celebrate them. According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, small businesses make up half of the jobs for Americans, and they create two-thirds of the new jobs in the country each year. In an effort to support local businesses, residents of Edwardsville and Glen Carbon can choose to purchase local produce, eat at local restaurants and shop at local stores. The Land of Goshen Community Market will be open in downtown Edwardsville from 8 a.m. to noon on Saturday, which allows people to shop local by visiting the abundance of small businesses gathered into the same area. EDWARDSVILLE Edwardsville Mayor Hal Patton gave the annual State of the City address during the city council meeting Tuesday. This years theme was to recognize new employees. The city has hired more than 50 new employees since November 2017 and Patton read off their names. We really got some quality hires, Patton said after reading off a list of names. He recognized and thanked employees in various departments and committees for their efforts over the past fiscal year, including retirees such as Tim Harr and Dennis McCracken, former city administrator and former city clerk, respectively. Its an honor to serve with you and watch what you do for the citizens of this community, Patton said. All of the citys aldermanic committees were juggled for the new fiscal year Tuesday. In addition, all appointed officials will return for the new year. Patton highlighted some of the new businesses that are open or coming into town Mod Pizza, HomeGoods, Smoothie King, BJs Printables, Freddies steakburgers and Kyoto Steakhouse in Timberlake Village. He mentioned TownePlace Suites, the new hotel that opened this year near the Edwardsville High School, a rebuilt McDonalds on Route 157 and many others. Due to the combination of TownePlace Suites and a Starbucks, Patton praised public works for thinking ahead. More Information ALDERMANIC COMMITTEES New committee members for 2019-2020 are: Administrative and Community Services Art Risavy, Chair SJ Morrison Will Krause Finance SJ Morrison, Chair Craig Louer Chris Farrar Public Safety Will Krause, Chair Janet Stack Chris Farrar Public Services Jack Burns, Chair Craig Louer Janet Stack See More Collapse We knew this intersection was going to be busy; our public works department got out ahead of that congestion and traffic and put in an additional turn lane, Patton said. Other developments that came to the area within the past 12 months include ArchView Flooring, Charles Schwab, Painting with a Twist, Trusty Chords, Edgewild, World Finance and the Pilates-Barre Studio. The TorHoermann Law Offices on South Main are new and Patton announced Matt Pfund is planning a multi-story building behind the law offices with retail and apartments or condominiums above it. Turning to the Gateway Commerce Center, Patton described World Wide Technologys (WWT) recent investments in the citys industrial park. WWT will be moving into those two buildings; two million-square-feet and I think 700 or 800 workers between the two facilities, he said. Eric Gowin, founder and managing member of Contegra Construction, received the Businessman of the Year Award. WWT, Ironworks and Richland Residential are just three of Contegras projects in the area, Patton said. If you add up those totals, it was $100 million just by Contegra last year. So I told Eric at the breakfast this month, that he set the bar; if anybody wants to be Business of the Year, they have to do $100 million worth of construction. Patton said he knows SIUE professors and people near retirement age who are no longer able to or are no longer interested in maintaining a yard but who are interested in Whispering Heights. They are looking for some nice, new construction with high-end sinks and countertops and all the amenities that come with these new buildings, Patton said. He mentioned the coming demolition of the former public safety building and he displayed a rendering of its replacement, Gori Julians new law offices on North Main, a $16 million project, and he showed designs of possible new, three-story parking garages that may total $8 million. Were also looking at downtown parking options, Patton explained. These are a couple of ideas that weve sketched. Were working with the business owners downtown and this is going to be one of the projects we work on with SIUE. On Liberty Street, a new 97-space parking lot would be city-owned and should be great for the future growth of North Main, he said. Last fiscal year, the city had $247,984,052 worth of construction versus $102,809,879 the year before. Patton touched on life-saving efforts made by Edwardsville Police Officer Conor Hoyland, who saved the life of an employee who had been run over by a forklift at one of the warehouses in the Gateway Commerce Center and received a life-saving award from the Southern Illinois Police Chiefs Association. Police Chief Jay Keeven became treasurer of the Southern Illinois Law Enforcement Commission. Patton listed more than 10,500 extra police safety checks at residents requests, more than 3,300 subdivision checks, almost 700 school checks and about 8,300 business checks. The citys fire department has been training and improving their skills and teamwork, too. Patton highlighted trench rescue classes, important for a city that is growing and in the midst of street, water and sewer replacement projects. In addition, the current public safety building has a training tower built-in, enabling officers to sharpen their rappelling and hoisting skills while on the job. Two firefighters completed the basic training academy; six are working on bachelors degrees; Lt. Rodney Hall was chosen to receive the Firefighter of the Year award while firefighter Mike Schonlau was selected as Paramedic of the Year. Both men were selected by their peers for these accolades. A total of 157 residents have been trained in Stop the Bleed measures while 153 residents have been trained in CPR, AED and first aid techniques. There were about 3,100 fire calls for service last year, 150 car seats put in, 300 business inspections, 17 school inspections including Lewis & Clark Community College and Edwardsville High School. The parks department came in for accolades for its master plan and the public engagement efforts it made last year to gauge residents interest in various outdoor and arts activities. I learned a lot by it. We have a lot of people in the community that are very interested in the arts and what different things are done in terms of community involvement, Patton said. The Wildey Theatre has become a beacon for the city, with total attendance for the theatre and event center at 42,846 people. The number of patrons buying movie tickets, excluding free events and $2 films, equals the approximate 2010 population of the city, 26,621. A total of 44 out of 60 concerts sold out last year, 49 of 91 events sold out and the theatre drew patrons from 34 U.S. states, the United Kingdom and Germany. The Schwarz Dog Park has proven popular, especially since its an off-leash park, Patton said. He said about 70 percent of area households have pets. There are five unisex restrooms at City Park powered by solar energy without the need for portable toilets on nearby streets. The Edwardsville/Glen Carbon Community Pool had more than 8,300 users last year, 39 memberships, 813 SIUE students, 207 swim lessons and 1,755 rentals. Patton said youth softball (273 players) and sand volleyball (306 players) as recreational activities have really taken off with area teenagers. Patton said he believes there is a waiting list of seven teams to get into this years group at Hoppe Park. Reach reporter Charles Bolinger at (618) 656-4700, ext. 310 TORONTO, May 09, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Timbercreek Financial (the "Company") (TSX:TF) announced the voting results for the election of its board of directors, which took place at the Companys Annual Meeting held on May 7, 2019 in Toronto, Ontario. The nominees listed in the management information circular dated March 22, 2019 were elected as directors of the Company and detailed results of the votes cast by proxy are set out below: Name of Nominee Votes For % For Votes Withheld % Withheld Zelick L. Altman 20,150,710 99.26 150,762 0.74 Ugo Bizzarri 20,144,270 99.23 157,202 0.77 Cameron Goodnough 20,156,773 99.29 144,699 0.71 Steven Scott 19,879,166 97.92 422,306 2.08 W. Glenn Shyba 20,067,291 98.85 234,181 1.15 Pamela Spackman 20,266,570 99.83 34,902 0.17 R. Blair Tamblyn 19,958,610 98.31 342,862 1.69 Derek J. Watchorn 20,002,185 98.53 299,287 1.47 At the Annual Meeting, KPMG LLP was reappointed as the Companys auditors to hold office until the next annual meeting of shareholders of the Company and the directors were authorized to fix their remuneration. About the Company Timbercreek Financial is a leading non-bank, commercial real estate lender providing shorter-duration, structured financing solutions to commercial real estate investors. Our sophisticated, service-oriented approach allows us to meet the needs of borrowers, including faster execution and more flexible terms that are not typically provided by Canadian financial institutions. By employing thorough underwriting, active management and strong governance, we are able to meet these needs while targeting strong risk-adjusted returns for investors. CONTACT: Timbercreek Financial Cam Goodnough President & CEO cgoodnough@timbercreek.com www.timbercreekfinancial.com Sen. Bernie Sanders ignited a national discussion recently when he endorsed the right of individuals in prison to be able to vote, as is the case in his home state of Vermont. In doing so, Sanders raised fundamental questions of democracy and citizenship that are long overdue. Allowing people in prison to vote would both benefit public safety goals and enhance 21st century democracy. As extreme as is our rate of incarceration in the United States, so too are our felony disenfranchisement laws by the standards of comparable nations. As of 2016, an estimated 6.1 million people were denied the right to vote due to a current or previous felony conviction. Of this total 1.3 million were incarcerated in state or federal prisons. Disenfranchising those in prison is counterproductive for public safety because 95 percent of these people will return home someday. Re-entry into the community is a difficult process, but individuals who have strong connections to the community are more likely to be successful. In addition to having adequate housing, employment, and peer support, engagement in the political process provides an avenue for a connection to the health of the broader community. Some critics of prisoner voting contend that being convicted of a felony is an indicator of being untrustworthy to being part of the electorate. This type of character test is a slippery slope that can only lead to a diminished pool of voters. I may be concerned that my neighbor is an alcoholic or a bad parent, but he still maintains the right to vote in a democracy. Or I might believe that anyone who is an acknowledged racist or Islamaphobe should not be allowed to vote, but once each of us goes down that road, well produce a pretty slim electorate. Felony disenfranchisement also ignores the important distinction between legitimate punishment for a crime and ones rights as a citizen. Convicted individuals may be sentenced to prison, but they generally maintain their basic rights. So even if someone is held in a maximum security prison cell he or she still has the right to get married or divorced, or to buy or sell property. And to the extent that voting can be conceived as an expression of free speech, consider that a prisoner may submit an op-ed article to a newspaper and have it published, perhaps with greater impact than casting a single vote. Disenfranchisement proponents sometimes raise the specter of a prisoners voting bloc that would run counter to the interests of the law-abiding public. The fallacy of such a scenario should be obvious. If such a group of pro-crime individuals were a real threat, they would somehow have to hoodwink the public into electing a majority of state legislators as well as a governor who shared their position. This fanciful concern is hardly a threat to public safety. In fact, as I have visited in many prisons over the years, what I hear inside is a range of opinion as broad as in the outside world. Whether the issue is taxation, abortion, or immigration, prisoner political affiliations and beliefs span the spectrum of public opinion. And to the extent that prisoners have strong feelings about the criminal justice system, should that not factor in to the electoral arena? After all, oil company executives, labor union members, and religious leaders have expertise and opinions about their life experiences that they bring to the voting booth. Critics of Sanders proposal charge that this would grant voting rights to terrorists in prison. This issue surfaced some years ago in Israel, as the nations Supreme Court considered a civil suit brought by Yigal Amir. Amir was convicted of killing Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin, and was one of the most despised individuals in the country. Yet the court ruled on behalf of his and other prisoners right to vote, concluding that the nation must separate contempt for this act from respect for his right. When this nation was founded as an experiment in democracy two centuries ago it was a very limited experiment. Women werent permitted to vote, nor African Americans, or people who were poor or illiterate. Over time evolving public sentiment has enfranchised all those groups, and we now look back on that moment with a great deal of national embarrassment. Its now long past time to remedy the exclusion of the last remaining group of citizens who are denied the right to vote. This would represent a healthy contribution to democracy, as well as enhance public safety. Marc Mauer is the executive director of The Sentencing Project and the co-author of The Meaning of Life: The Case for Abolishing Life Sentences. He wrote this for InsideSources.com. Recently Bernie Sanders one of the leading candidates for the Democratic Partys presidential nomination took to Twitter in defense of a controversial position: re-enfranchising felons currently serving time in prison, regardless of their crimes. South Carolina has a higher incarceration rate than any country on Earth. African Americans are 27% of the state population but 60% of the prison population. Our racist criminal justice system disenfranchises millions. This is quite simply voter suppression. Whether felons should retain the right to vote, and whether they should retain it while incarcerated, are political questions to which I do not offer answers here. However, Sanders tweet is seriously problematic on many other fronts. Primarily, it reflects the sort of misleading claims made by felon re-enfranchisement supporters, who paint the issue as one of racial justice. To begin with, comparing the states incarceration rate (or the countrys, for that matter) with the rates of other countries doesnt reveal anything conclusive about incarceration in South Carolina or the United States because it ignores two important factors that go a long way toward explaining why Americas incarceration rates are relatively high: the U.S.s comparatively elevated levels of serious violent crime (a favorite talking point of the political left when it comes to the issue of gun control), and the fact that the United States has the wealth that other countries with elevated crime may not have to better fund its criminal justice system. Specific to Sanders tweet, readers should note that South Carolinas elevated incarceration rate is also very much a function of its comparatively elevated violent crime rate. In 2017, the states murder rate was 7.8 per 100,000. Thats well above the national rate of 5.3 per 100,000. New York state, by contrast, had a murder rate of just 2.8 per 100,000. Moreover, using the black share of the population as the baseline to determine whether blacks are over-represented in U.S. prisons is nonsensical. The harsh reality is that serious, violent crime in the United States is both geographically and demographically concentrated. While black men may make up a greater portion of the prison population than they do of the general population, that is not in itself evidence of bias in the system. Much, if not all, of the disparity can be attributed to the fact that black men commit a disproportionate share of the nations most serious violent crime. Though black men constitute about 7% of the national population, they account for more than 40% of known homicide offenders, according to the FBIs most recent data. Consider also that nearly three-quarters (72.9%) of all prisoners in the United States are, according to 2017 data published by the Bureau of Justice Statistics, serving sentences for one of just 10 offense categories: murder, negligent manslaughter, rape/sexual assault, robbery, aggravated/simple assault, burglary, larceny theft, motor vehicle theft, other violent offenses, and weapons violations. In South Carolina the subject of Sanders tweet just four of the most serious offense categories (homicide, burglary, robbery and sexual assault) explain more than half (55%) of the states prison population. What these data make clear is that incarceration rates throughout the United States reflect, more than anything else, a policy response to serious, often violent, crime a response, readers should note, that was not without support from the black community during the high-crime 80s and 90s. There is certainly room for principled disagreement on the question of whether, in general, or in specific cases, that sort of response is wise; but the implication that incarceration rates reflect a racist attempt to disenfranchise blacks is not just wrong, its irresponsible. The level of political discourse has already fallen several notches in recent years. Unfortunately, Sanders willingness to incite racial angst to win votes indicates this elevator may still be going down. Rafael A. Mangual is a fellow and deputy director of legal policy at the Manhattan Institute for Policy Research. He wrote this for InsideSources.com. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Javier Tovar (Agence France-Presse) Los Angeles, United States Thu, May 9, 2019 11:02 961 db1d47cf6ffbed4060cffaa8737025c1 2 People Diane-Keaton,Hollywood,actor,film,united-states,interview,Woody-Allen,Poms Free Diane Keaton claims to be one of the fortunate ones: as the screen legend reflects on age, marriage, and nearly half a century of working in Hollywood, she says that she's never felt sexually harassed. "Never. Maybe I just wasn't harassment material," said Keaton, who has 68 screen credits since her 1970 debut in the comedy Lovers and Other Strangers. The 72-year-old's big screen appearances include The Godfather (1972) and its sequels, two Father of the Bride movies in the 1990s with Steve Martin and Something's Gotta Give with Jack Nicholson (2003), for which she won a Golden Globe. But the actress truly made her mark co-starring in eight Woody Allen movies, from Play in Again Sam (1972) to Manhattan Murder Mystery (1993). She won her best actress Oscar for starring in Annie Hall (1977) with Allen and was nominated a further three times. Keaton and Allen were lovers for a time, and when they broke up they remained friends and work partners. As the Hollywood sexual harassment scandals detonated in late 2017, cascading from producer Harvey Weinstein to heavyweight actors like Kevin Spacey, old accusations of child sex abuse against Allen by his adoptive daughter Dylan resurfaced. "Woody Allen is my friend and I continue to believe him," Keaton tweeted in January 2018. For all her confidence and bravado, Keaton preferred simply not to talk about the controversial actor and director -- and did not answer a question about whether she'd work with him again. Read also: Putting sex in sexagenarian: Madonna still shocks at 60 Age and love Keaton's last two movies are about aging women: Book Club (2018), with its message that love has no age, and now Poms, set to open on Friday in the United States and Canada. Poms is the story of Martha, a terminally ill woman who moves to a retirement community to die, but winds up forming a cheerleading squad made up of female senior citizens. As for aging, Keaton says that life actually gets easier. "I think so, because what have you got to lose? It's like it's the truth. That's what it is. You face it, we talk about it," she said. Keaton is less certain about spending her final years in a retirement home, but she definitely wouldn't be a cheerleader like Martha in Poms. "I was never a dancer... and cheerleading is really basically dancing," she said. She auditioned for a school cheerleading squad when she was 14 but didn't make the cut. "Really my heart was in performing on stage," she said. Keaton is familiar with the environment, having volunteered in her 30s at a Jewish retirement home, and she has a brother -- the subject of a book she has just finished -- at an assisted living facility. "So I know about them, I've been around," she said. Read also: Woody Allen: prolific film legend stained by scandal "I'm not unhappy" Keaton, who enjoys photography when she isn't acting, in no rush to retire. "I don't think of it," she said. If the Hollywood work offers dry up, "I have a lot of hobbies that are very time-consuming that I love. I'll address those and those will be my work. "I have no intention of stopping any kind of work whatsoever," she said. Keaton, who had long romances with screen legends like Al Pacino, Beatty and Allen, has two adopted children but never married. "I wonder if I'm the only single woman of my age who's been in film who hasn't gotten married, so I might be a freak," she said. "Most people in the movies get married at some point and then they divorce. But I've never even got married. I am failure," she joked. Does she regret it? "I don't think about it a lot but I'm aware of the fact that I'm unusual in that regard, and maybe I did miss out on something -- but then, nobody can have everything, right?" "I'm not unhappy," she said. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Josa Lukman (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Thu, May 9, 2019 14:49 961 db1d47cf6ffbed4060cffaa87371463f 1 Entertainment #entertainment,#music,#classical,#pianist,#Dutch,#recital,#WouterBergenhuizen Free Dutch pianist Wouter Bergenhuizen might have a special place in his heart for the works of Beethoven, but his musical tastes are diverse and include traditional Indonesian music, particularly gamelan orchestra pieces. The pianist, an avid listener of Indonesian music, pointed out how Debussy was inspired by gamelan and tried to imitate the sounds of gamelan instruments in many of his works. For me the sound [of gamelan] is exotic, yet very pure, so beautiful. I think its very important to keep our traditions alive, he told The Jakarta Post. On the other hand, through modern technology and the internet, it has become so easy to share, discover and listen to so much wonderful music that is performed all around the world, and its influence is a treasure. Bergenhuizen has arrived in Jakarta to get ready for a series of recitals in three Indonesian cities. His tour begins at Erasmus Huis in Jakarta on May 11 and heads to the Wesley Methodists Church in Medan, North Sumatra, on May 13 before coming to a close at the Aceh Museum in Banda Aceh, Aceh province, on May 17. In the recitals, Bergenhuizen will perform the works of three composers: Beethovens Sonata Op. 110, Griegs Holberg Suite and Debussys Images 1er Livre. Born in Maastricht in 1988 to a musical family, Bergenhuizen learned the piano at the age of 4 and the clarinet at the age of 7. Three years later, he added the violin to his repertoire. Recognized for his outstanding skills in these three instruments, he was accepted into the young talent department of the Conservatory of Maastricht at the age of 12. He eventually settled on the piano as his main instrument at the Conservatory of Amsterdam at age 16. Bergenhuizen made his solo debut in 2013 with the South Dutch Philharmonic Orchestra, performing Totentanz by Franz Liszt. He has since become a regular guest of the orchestra. He was also the only Dutch contestant to reach the semifinals of the 2017 International Franz Liszt Piano Competition in Utrecht. Wouter Bergenhuizen (Courtesy of Erasmus Huis/-) The pianist, who currently teaches classical piano at the Conservatory of Amsterdam, likens a good concert to eating at a nice restaurant, saying that if the pieces were too similar whether it is created by one composer or adheres to one style, time period or nationality it could easily fall flat. Therefore I always try to choose a nice mix of very different works. Beethovens Sonata Op. 110 is a highly emotional work with a great sense of architecture. It is a very deep and personal story, told in music. As a contrast, the more romantic piece by Grieg is made from short, individual dances each with its very own character, he said. Finally, the French composer Debussy takes us to a completely different world of sound, colors and atmospheres with the three Images he composed in 1905. With that in mind, Bergenhuizen said he still had a special place in his heart for the works of Beethoven, noting that he would never get bored of the German composers works, as he discovers something new with each performance. With his recital in Indonesia, Bergenhuizen said no special preparations were in place, though he is aware of the different atmospheres of each venue. He said beyond just the audience and hall, the occasion could influence his choice of program. However, most important is the admiration, passion and connection I feel for a certain piece, Bergenhuizen said. When I really fall in love with a piece of music, then I just have to play it. So in that sense I dont behave differently when I play in Indonesia. I just do what I love, and I want to share that with people. (ste) Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Paul Handley (Agence France-Presse) Washington Thu, May 9, 2019 23:05 960 db1d47cf6ffbed4060cffaa87371f711 2 Art & Culture spy,Museum,Washington,spy-museum Free A lipstick pistol, a button-hole camera, a lethal umbrella and an authentic waterboarding table: the espionage world's heroic, ingenious and sordid sides are all on show in Washington's all-new, much-expanded International Spy Museum. The hugely popular showplace that once conjured James Bond and Austin Powers as much as it did actual life-and-death Cold War intrigue has grown and, in the tailwind of 9/11 and the War on Terror, grown up. Relocated in a gleaming new steel and glass building double the size of its former premises, the Spy Museum still amazes and charms with the tales and gadgets of the undercover world going back centuries. But now it also depicts the complex and often unsettling challenges of the world of shadows, with visitors asked in clever interactive games and simulated situation rooms to decide: could I be an intelligence agent? Disguises, microdots, suicide needles The Spy Museum has been one of the US capital's most popular private destinations since it opened in 2002. The new premises open officially on Sunday, just ahead of the summer tourist season. On show, as before, is the iconic Aston Martin DB5 from 1964's James Bond thriller "Goldfinger." But now there is also room for an equally sleek 1980s Amber surveillance drone, the precursor of the Predator. There is a British World War II one-man submarine, and an actual section of the CIA/MI6 tunnel that penetrated East Berlin in the 1950s to tap Soviet communications. And there are gadgets galore: a pregnant woman disguise from the CIA and a suicide needle hidden in a silver dollar coin, for use by Francis Gary Powers, the U2 spy plane pilot shot down by the Soviet Union in 1960. There are historical encryption machines, including Germany's Enigma, and a display on the microdot technology central to spying for decades last century. Read also: New York's KGB museum offers Cold War nostalgia fix Russian spies caught by the US in 2010 are seen in the new International Spy Museum during a media preview ahead of its opening in Washington, DC, May 7, 2019. (AFP/Saul Loeb) Among all manner of odd items throughout the museum are a saboteur's exploding lump of coal, pills that CIA operatives entering Cuba could use to sedate barking dogs and the sketchbook of a KGB agent operating undercover in New York in the 1950s. "The objectives of spies have not changed over the centuries," said Keith Melton, whose massive collection of espionage gear is the core of the museum. "The only thing that has changed is the technology, and how they accomplish the objectives." Could you be an agent? The museum's coverage is global, and mostly without judgement. China's theft of US secrets and technology is on display; so is the theft, centuries ago, of China's silkworm and tea cultivation know-how by Westerners. Woven in between are engaging, well-designed interactive exhibits and challenges that press the question: what would the visitor do? One tests a person's lock-picking ability, while another takes visitors through a series of tests of memory, judgment and observation in a simulated spy operation. In yet another, visitors take the role of CIA analysts in the 2011 situation room where, holding deeply imperfect intelligence, they must decide whether to advise President Barack Obama to approve a raid on the Abbottabad, Pakistan compound possibly housing Osama Bin Laden. Complex issues are engaged and not whitewashed. The museum puts on show the spying world's failures, including a display of the actual intelligence that, if it had drawn more attention, might have helped prevent Al-Qaeda's September 11, 2001 attack. And, with a waterboard on display and a video discussion of actual participants, there is a disquieting debate on the CIA's use of torture after 9/11. Read also: Museum trips reveal Indonesia's classified history Visitors tour the new International Spy Museum during a media preview ahead of its opening in Washington, DC, May 7, 2019. (AFP/Saul Loeb) 'The essence of espionage' The museum has its roots in the 7,000-piece collection of Melton, a navy veteran and engineer who, beginning in the 1960s traveled the world to amass. He advertised that he was a buyer of any spy technology, and he sought out and befriended agents and officials from all sides of the Cold War game. "As the wall fell in Berlin, I was there," he said, and the collection's extensive spyware from East Germany's Stasi service is the result. Weeks after the Soviet Union crumbled in December 1991, he traveled to Moscow. "I went and knocked on the door of KGB headquarters and said I'm here to buy spy equipment," Melton said. While he raised some suspicions, many realized he was a genuine collector who didn't talk about politics. "I like gadgets, they like gadgets," he said. "Cameras, microdots, coding machines, short range transmitters: that's the essence of espionage." The pride of his collection is gruesome, but he spent four decades seeking it: the ice axe that Joseph Stalin's assassins used to murder Leon Trotsky in Mexico in 1940, in the climax of an intense three-year intelligence operation. Melton is hugely proud of the new museum, but somewhat wistful about the new digital age, in which computer technology has replaced many espionage tools. "I think we are past the golden era of spy devices. This is now the most powerful spy device in the world," he said, pointing to his smartphone. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Ock Hyun-ju (The Korea Herald/Asia News Network) Thu, May 9, 2019 11:33 961 db1d47cf6ffbed4060cffaa87370c27c 2 Entertainment seungri,Big-Bang,scandal,Burning-Sun,K-pop,#KPop Free Police requested an arrest warrant for Big Bang star Seungri on Wednesday over allegations he procured prostitutes for potential investors in his business and misappropriated funds of nightclub Burning Sun. Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency also filed an arrest warrant for Yoo In-suk, CEO of Yuri Holdings that he co-founded with Seungri, on charges of arranging prostitution and embezzlement of company funds. We see that the two conspired to arrange sex services and embezzle company funds, Yonhap News Agency quoted a police officer as saying. Seungri, 28, who is at the center of the scandal encompassing illicit sex videos, drugs, prostitution and embezzlement, has been called in for police questioning 18 times as a suspect or witness since allegations surfaced in January. Read also: Seungri postpones military draft amid Burning Sun probe Seungri is suspected of procuring prostitutes for parties he organized in 2015 and 2017, siphoning off funds from the Burning Sun club for Yuri Holdings and sharing via a mobile messenger a nude photo of a woman that was secretly taken without her consent. He has denied all the accusations. Earlier in the day, a hearing on an arrest warrant request was held for a police officer suspected of receiving bribes in exchange for helping Burning Sun get away with the admission of minors to the club. A ruling was expected to come by the next morning. Topics : This article appeared on The Korea Herald newspaper website, which is a member of Asia News Network and a media partner of The Jakarta Post Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Thu, May 9, 2019 09:08 961 db1d47cf6ffbed4060cffaa8736f7e14 4 Business kimia-farma,expansion,Vietnam,Saudi-Arabia Free After acquiring shares in a Saudi Arabian company, state-owned pharmaceutical company PT Kimia Farma has expressed its intention to expand its business to Vietnam by acquiring a local company. Kimia Farma finance director I.G.N Suharta Wijaya said the company was studying the regulations in the country to find out if a foreign company was allowed to control the majority of shares in a local company. So, it depends on the regulation in the country. It the regulation is okay, we will enter the country this year, Suharta said in Jakarta on Tuesday as quoted by tempo.co. He stressed that to enter the country, Kimia Farma had to hold majority shares of a local company as otherwise, the investment was not secured. Suharta said Kimia Farma was interested in acquiring a Vietnamese company that had 400 outlets in the country, fewer than the outlets owned by Kimia Farma. If the sales of each Kimia Farma outlet in the country is Rp 1.5 billion [US$104,877] per month, [the sales of an outlet of the Vietnamese company] could be Rp 4 billion per month, he added. If the plan works, it will be the second overseas expansion by Kimia Farma. Previously, the company invested Rp 130 billion to acquire Dawaa Medical Limited Company, a company in Saudia Arabia. Dawaa is a subsidiary of Marei Bin Mahfouz Group, which also runs a healthcare business. Kimia Farma president director Honesti Basyir said the company invested Rp 148.2 billion in Saudi Arabia. With the move, Kimia Farma controls 60 percent of the shares and changed the name of the company to Kimia Farma Dawaa. (bbn) Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Ary Hermawan (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Thu, May 9, 2019 08:37 961 db1d47cf6ffbed4060cffaa8736f13dc 1 World editor-in-chief,World-Editors-Forum,journalism,media,Asia Free Editors from 15 news organizations across Asia, including The Jakarta Posts chief editor Nezar Patria, have agreed to set up a new Asian chapter of the World Editors Forum (WEF), a grouping of editors under the auspices of the World Association of Newspapers and News Publishers (WAN-IFRA). The editors met in the newsroom of Singapore daily The Straits Times on Tuesday to discuss the formation of the group, its goals and objectives, and some areas they might work together on. The editors said in a joint statement released on Wednesday that they agreed the new chapter would help newsrooms to collaborate when addressing issues such as safeguarding press freedom and credibility, growing newsroom resources and responding to changes in communications technology. The members of the group also planned to endorse and promote World News Day in the region, forge partnerships with leading media schools to promote journalism as a profession and partner with social and philanthropic foundations to help make training and development programs more widely accessible to newsrooms and journalists. The editors also elected Warren Fernandez, editor-in-chief of Singapore Press Holdings' English, Malay and Tamil Media Group and editor of The Straits Times, as the founding chairman of the WEF Asia chapter. The other founding members of the WEF Asia Chapter are Antara news agency president director Meidyatama Suryodiningrat, Bangkok Post editor Soonruth Bunyamanee, Bernama news agency chief executive Nurini Kassim, The Phnom Penh Post chief executive officer Tayseng Ly and South China Morning Post editor-in-chief Tammy Tam. (kmt) Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Thu, May 9, 2019 Residents of Bekasi in West Java have found a new app that saves them money, time and nerves as they no longer have to put up with the problem of ngetem, when an angkot (public minivan) stops too long to wait for passengers. Some believe the software brings Bekasi one step closer to being a smart city. The app, tron, has won over many of the citys residents with its low price and high reliability after nearly a month-long trial run. to Read Full Story SUBSCRIBE NOW Starting from IDR 55,000/month Unlimited access to our web and app content e-Post daily digital newspaper No advertisements, no interruptions Privileged access to our events and programs Subscription to our newsletters We accept Register to read 3 premium articles for free Already subscribed? login TORONTO, May 09, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Today, Clear Blue Technologies International Inc. (Clear Blue) (TSXV: CBLU) (FRANKFURT: 0YA) announced its collaboration with Mobismart Mobile Off-Grid Power & Storage Inc. (Mobismart), to provide mobile, grid-free, robust power that displaces diesel generators on infrastructure and construction projects. The fast-growing global generator market is estimated to reach US$ 3.34 billion by 2025, and most of the market is driven by sales of diesel generators, according to a report from Transparency Market Research . Mobismarts mobile solar generating rugged, go-anywhere power trailers, called Mobisun, are used to power telecom tower systems, environmental testing equipment, communications, lighting and security cameras in the construction, mining, oil and gas, renewable energy and telecom industries. Clear Blues Smart Off-Grid technology provides the ability to remotely monitor, control, and manage the Mobisun generators, enabling high reliability and low maintenance costs. This remote monitoring software system, called Illumience, empowers service personnel to detect, prevent and resolve issues without having to go out into the field, through automated monitoring, alerts and remote control while also providing valuable power production and load usage data. Irene Efston, Vice President, Marketing at Mobismart said: Our mobile off-grid power systems have lower lifetime operating and maintenance costs than diesel generators, without the air and noise pollution. With Clear Blues Smart Off-Grid remote management and control, operators dont have to go on-site to do regular maintenance, which is the case for diesel generators that need to be constantly refueled. This was crucial, as many of these sites are highly inaccessible and some can only be reached by helicopter. We think the global mobile/portable generator market is ripe for disruption, said Miriam Tuerk, CEO of Clear Blue. Off-grid power is going to replace diesel generators in the long-run because the cost and inconvenience of refueling these generators is too great. The joint solution from Mobismart and Clear Blue addresses this large and growing market opportunity. The joint solution is already operational, powering wind farm environmental testing equipment for Renewable Energy Services Canada Inc. Clear Blues Illumience software enables the user to not only remotely monitor but also to control the Mobisun unit. For example, to achieve optimal operating conditions for the systems batteries temperature is very important, therefore, when the internal temperature is detected to be below 15C, a heater is switched on until the temperature is above 18C; if the temperature is higher than 25C an actuated duct damper opens and the duct fan turns on to pull the hot air out of the Mobisun cabin. Another feature is if the windspeed is above 110 kilometers per hour as read by the on-board anemometer, Clear Blues Smart Off-Grid controller will command the heavy-duty actuators to retract to automatically bring the solar array down until the wind reaches a safer speed. These and other smart features are critical for reliability and ROI and are unique in the market to the Mobisun, developed as a result of the joint efforts of Clear Blue and Mobismart. About Clear Blue Technologies International Clear Blue Technologies International Inc., the Smart Off-Grid company, was founded on a vision of delivering clean, managed, wireless power to meet the global need for reliable, low-cost, solar and hybrid power for lighting, telecom, security, Internet of Things devices, and other mission-critical systems. Today, Clear Blue has thousands of systems under management across 35 countries, including the U.S. and Canada. Clear Blue is publicly traded on the Toronto Venture Exchange under the symbol CBLU. Media Contact: Becky Nye Senior Associate Montieth & Company 155 E 44th St., New York, NY 10017 bnye@montiethco.com +1 646.864.3517 Investor Relations: Miriam Tuerk Co-Founder and CEO investors@clearbluetechnologies.com http://www.clearbluetechnologies.com/en/investors +1 (855) 733-0119 x200 About MOBISMART Mobile Off-Grid Power & Storage Inc MOBISMART Mobile Off-Grid Power & Storage Inc. is advancing mobile renewable energy generation and storage technology to replace or offset diesel fuel usage and its frequent maintenance visits, high CO2 emissions and noise pollution as well as the associated financial and environmental costs. MOBISMART manufactures a portfolio of robust, easily deployed mobile off-grid power and storage solutions for use in remote and hard-to-reach locations where no grid power is available. MOBISUN Mobile Off-Grid Power Trailers use solar panels and optional wind turbines to generate power and house the latest in battery storage technology. They are designed to go anywhere, withstand extreme weather conditions, require little to no maintenance and are remotely monitored and controlled. The MOBISUN delivers greater return on power investment for applications that include telecom towers, construction, mining exploration and disaster relief. Scalable and purpose-built in multiple quantities, innovative manufacturing and assembly using state-of-the art equipment and sophisticated processes ensure they will last. Mobismart Contact: Irene Efston VP Marketing Mobismart Mobile Off-Grid Power & Storage Inc. 855-806-0188 Ext 215 irene.efston@mobismart.ca Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Arya Dipa (The Jakarta Post) Bandung, West Java Thu, May 9, 2019 17:06 961 db1d47cf6ffbed4060cffaa873718ca1 1 Business Kertajati-Airport-Majalengka-WestJava,Husein-Sastranegara-Airport,flight,relocation Free To help the underperforming Kartajati International Airport in Majalengka, West Java, stakeholders, including the management of Husein Sastranegara Airport in Bandung, gathered on Tuesday in Jakarta at a meeting organized by the Transportation Ministry. During the meeting, which was also attended by representatives of state-owned airport operator PT Angkasa Pura II (AP II), all parties agreed that nearly all flights from Bandung to airports outside Java would be relocated to Kertajati Airport from Husein Sastranegara Airport. PT Bandarudara Internasional Jawa Barat (BIJB), the developer of the airport, the major shares of which are owned by the West Java provincial government, welcomed the agreement and thanked Transportation Minister Budi Karya Sumadi for his commitment to help Kertajati Airport. We appreciate and thank the transportation minister, who has strong a commitment to make Kertajati Airport busier, said BIJB director Muhammad Singgih in a press statement on Wednesday. Since Kertajati International Airport opened last year, only a few airlines have been interested in operating from the airport, preferring Husein Sastranegara Airport in Bandung, which is closer to the inner city. Singggih assured that Kertajati Airport was ready to serve all airlines that wanted to operate from the airport. The plan could be implemented before Idul Fitri, he said referring to the Islamic holiday that will fall in early June. Singgih said during the Tuesday meeting it was agreed that Husein Sastranegara Airport would serve flights from Bandung to all airports in Java and Lampung in Sumatra as well as the international flights to Malaysia and Singapore. Husein Sastranegara Airport serves 80 flights every day, while Kertajati Airport serves one route from the 11 initially planned. The occupancy rate on each flight is reportedly below 30 percent. Singgih said the main route to the airport from Bandung was the Cikampek-Palimanan toll road that took two-and-a-half hours, while the Cileunyi-Sumedang-Dawuan toll road, which will become the main route to the airport, was still under construction. (bbn) Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Bambang Nurbianto (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Thu, May 9, 2019 10:30 961 db1d47cf6ffbed4060cffaa87370187a 4 Business Jokowi,capital-city-relocation,Bukit-Soeharto,Gunung-Mas Free All eyes are now on Kalimantan as President Joko Jokowi Widodo has fallen in love with two hills there Bukit Soeharto (Soeharto Hill) and Gunung Mas (Golden Hill) as he seeks the best place to relocate the capital from Jakarta. From the width of the area, this is the best place. Some 300 hectares is ready. If we need more, it can be expanded, Jokowi said when inspecting the location in Gunung Mas regency, Central Kalimantan, on Wednesday. In the province, Jokowi visited three locations provincial capital Palangkaraya, Katingan regency and Gunung Mas regency. The Presidents two-day visit to the island was to see several places that had been recommended for the new capital. Read also: Jokowi says Bukit Soeharto suitable place for capital city On Tuesday, Jokowi visited Bukit Soeharto in East Kalimantan. He said Bukit Soeharto, a 61,850 ha forest located in two regencies -- Panajam Paser Utara and Kutai Kartanegara was a suitable place for a capital in terms of infrastructure. He also cited the location of Bukit Soeharto, which is in between Samarinda and Balikpapan, the two largest cities in the province that have airports. Previously, National Development Planning Minister Bambang Brodjonegoro said the government was considering locations in four provinces -- Central Kalimantan, South Kalimantan, East Kalimantan and West Sulawesi for the new capital. Jokowi highlighted that founding president Sukarno had cited Palangkaraya as a future capital city. It is impossible that such a decision was made without strong arguments based on the right data and facts, said Jokowi as quoted by Antara. Jokowi also cited that Kalimantan was the only location that was safe from earthquakes. If a location is selected, the infrastructure should be developed from the beginning, he added. He said his two-day visit to Kalimantan was to study the locations that had been recommended. My field trips only have one goal, to get a feel [for the locations]. After I get a feel, the [budget] calculation will be easier. It will also be easier to make a decision, Jokowi said during the visit to Gunung Mas. Jokowi was accompanied by Cabinet Secretary Pramono Anung, Public Works and Housing Minister Basuki Hadimuljono, National Development Planning Minister Bambang Brodjonegoro, Agrarian and Spatial Planning Minister Sofyan Djalil, Central Kalimantan Governor Sugianto Sabran and Gunung Mas Regent Arton Dohong. (bbn) Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Thu, May 9, 2019 13:32 961 db1d47cf6ffbed4060cffaa8737115ab 1 National saracen,fake-news,misinformation,hate-speech Free The leader of alleged hate-speech propagator Saracen, Jasriadi, has been released on parole, a Law and Human Rights Ministry official has said. Saracen is an online news website that was accused of spreading hate speech and hostility based on ethnicity, religion, race or societal group (SARA) via social media in 2017. "Jasriadi was released on parole on May 8. His probation period will end on August 14, 2020," the ministrys Correction Facilities Directorate General spokesman, Ade Kusmanto, said on Wednesday as reported by kompas.com. He confirmed that the Pekanbaru Penitentiary in Riau had issued his letter of release after serving one year of his two-year sentence. The Pekanbaru District Court in Riau initially sentenced Jasriadi to 10 months in prison for illegally hacking into social media accounts in April last year. The panel of judges at the time argued that no evidence had been found pertaining to Jasriadi's involvement in the spread of hate speech, leading the sentence to be lighter than the two years imprisonment sought by the prosecutors. Both Jasriadi and the prosecutors filed an appeal against the verdict. The Pekanbaru High Court rejected Jasriadi's appeal and sentenced him to two years in prison in June 2018. (ars) Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Thu, May 9, 2019 16:23 961 db1d47cf6ffbed4060cffaa87371706e 1 National Memories-of-My-Body,Padang,west-sumatra,local-movie,film Free The controversy surrounding the movie Kucumbu Tubuh Indahku (Memories of My Body) continues unabated, as the administration of Padang in West Sumatra has called for an immediate ban on the film. Padang Deputy Mayor Mahyeldi said the film contained elements that ran counter to the religious, social and cultural norms in the region. It is true that we object to any public screening of the film in Padang. We have sent a letter to the Film Censorship Board [LSF], in addition to the Education and Culture Ministry, the Indonesian Broadcasting Commission [KPI] and the West Sumatra governors office requesting an immediate ban on the film, Mahyeldi said on Thursday, as quoted by kompas.com. He went on to say that the films contentious thematic content could trigger disturbances or conflicts among the residents of Padang. The film contains themes that allude to the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender [LGBT] community, which is prohibited in Padang, he said, adding that he expected a swift response from the government. The Padang administrations rejection of Kucumbu Tubuh Indahku comes on the heels of similar complaints regarding the film lodged by the Depok administration in West Java and the Palembang administration in South Sumatra. The controversy surrounding the movie also caused a stir on social media following an online petition for a public boycott. Released internationally as Memories of My Body, the film by acclaimed Indonesian director Garin Nugroho was accorded the Cultural Diversity Award of the 2018 Asia Pacific Screen Awards (APSA) and has been screened at several international film festivals, including in Rotterdam and Venice, and at UNESCO's Paris headquarters. Kucumbu Tubuh Indahku tells the story of Juno, a Javanese male dancer, over four periods in his life. The film explores the themes of identity and the nature of masculinity. (rfa) Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Karina M. Tehusijarana (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Thu, May 9, 2019 Protests over a plan to construct a Hindu temple in Sukahurip village in Sukatani district, Bekasi regency, West Java, has once again put a spotlight on the state of religious freedom in the country. There are between 6,000 and 7,000 Hindus in Bekasi, a regency of 3.5 million people who are predominantly Muslim, according to data from the Bekasi Religious Harmony Forum (FKUB), and plans to build the first Hindu temple in the regency were initiated in 2017. However, construction of the temple might never begin as residents staged protests on Saturday and Sunday, rejecting the presence of a Hindu place of worship in the village. A 2006 joint ministerial regulation requires local resident approval for the construction of any new place of worship, which often becomes an issue when minority religious communities look to build temples, churches or mosques in areas where residents are predominantly of another faith. Bekasi Regency Police chief Sr. Comr. Candra Sukma Kumara said residents did not reject the construction of the temple but only wanted the plan to fulfill permit requirements. He said the protests occurred because residents thought that construction was about to start without any permit. FKUB member I Made Pande Cakra, who is involved in the construction plan, said the Hindu community had already obtained the approval of 60 local non-Hindu residents and 90 local Hindu residents as required by the 2016 regulation. He acknowledged that the temple did not yet have a building permit (IMB) and added that construction had not yet started on the site. Not even one brick has been laid, Pande told The Jakarta Post on Wednesday. Pande also said that a meeting between the district government and religious and community leaders on Tuesday concluded that the construction of the temple would not be forbidden as long as it met the necessary requirements. However, videos of the protest indicate that the communitys rejection to the temple construction was not merely because of administrative issues. A banner in front of the planned construction site of a Hindu temple in Sukatani village, Bekasi regency, West Java, reads: Be careful! If you insist on building the temple, we are ready to carry out jihad as you are the ones who started this. (Tempo/File) One banner put up in the front of the construction site reads: Be careful! If you insist on building the temple, we are ready to carry out jihad as you are the ones who started this. A Sukatani district government official who was present at Tuesdays meeting also said that religious considerations were also a factor. In the meeting there were two points that residents brought up; first regarding aqidah [Islamic articles of faith] and second on temple construction being carried out according to regulations, district security head Rama B. Matandung said as quoted by local online news portal BeritaCikarang.com. The residents really hope that the construction does not move forward. All parties should obey the prevailing regulations, Religious Affairs Ministry spokesperson Mastuki told the Post. Besides the mechanism of discussion and consensus, there are administrative requirements that have to be fulfilled as well as considerations to religious harmony. Abdul Mu'ti, the secretary of Islamic mass organization Muhammadiyah, also pointed to the regulation as a guide. If the government issued an IMB, then government officials including security forces should safeguard and ensure construction can be completed, he said. However, if the requirements are not met, then there should be an effort to approach the community so that they understand and approve the construction of the place of worship. Human rights group Setara Institute, however, said the regulation itself was an impediment to freedom of religion. The joint ministerial regulation about houses of worship is essentially restrictive and unconstitutional, Setara researcher Halili Hasan told the Post on Wednesday. The Constitution guarantees freedom of worship, but how can you freely worship if there are restrictions on constructing places of worship? He said that while authorities should look into whether the protests were mobilized by nonlocals, the regulation itself tended to trigger protests over houses of worship. People say that there should be more communication with the residents but I dont think thats the real issue. Its not as if theyre trying to build a beer factory or a night club. A place of worship should be a universally good thing, he said. The regulation itself is what allows protests like these to occur. to Read Full Story SUBSCRIBE NOW Starting from IDR 55,000/month Unlimited access to our web and app content e-Post daily digital newspaper No advertisements, no interruptions Privileged access to our events and programs Subscription to our newsletters We accept Register to read 3 premium articles for free Already subscribed? login Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Thu, May 9, 2019 19:22 961 db1d47cf6ffbed4060cffaa87371cc96 4 City terrorists,JAD,TerroristSuspect,Bekasi,Jakarta-police,Densus-88 Free The Jakarta Police arrested an alleged terrorist during a raid at a mobile phone store in North Bekasi, Bekasi City, West Java, on Wednesday, following a string of raids last week. In the raid, conducted at Wanky Cell, a mobile phone store on Jl. Muchtar Tabrani in North Bekasi, the National Polices Densus 88 counterterrorism squad also found two pipe bombs. The raid was the result of developments of a case in which earlier arrests of [alleged members] of JAD Lampung and JAD Bekasi were made, Jakarta Police spokesman Argo Yuwono said on Thursday as reported by kompas.com, referring to the recent arrests of several alleged terrorists linked to the terrorist network Jamaah Ansharut Daulah. Investigators from Densus 88 made prior raids and arrests in Babelan, Bekasi regency, and Jatiasih in Bekasi municipality, where the police arrested one alleged terrorist, while another allegedly blew himself up during a separate arrest. The suspect arrested here [Wanky Cell] was the head, he was the coordinator of the other suspects that we had arrested, he said, adding that the police would conduct more raids in other places as part of an ongoing investigation. Besides two pipe bombs, Densus 88 also confiscated booster fertilizer, hydrogen chloride, white powder and several types of liquid kept in bottles. The local neighborhood unit chief, Zakaria, said Densus 88 arrived at the location at 5 p.m. on Wednesday and immediately raided the store, which was open. Two employees were inside the store. I think the store had been open for more than one year. There are three employees working there, but there were only two when the [raid] took place. They knew nothing, Zakaria told kompas.com. (das) Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin (Agence France-Presse) Copenhagen, Denmark Thu, May 9, 2019 13:12 961 db1d47cf6ffbed4060cffaa87371103a 2 World MikePompeo,US,diplomacy,Arctic,Greenland,cancellation Free US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Thursday put off a visit to Greenland, citing pressing business in Washington -- just two days after he also ditched a trip to Germany to fly to Iraq amid soaring tensions with Iran. Pompeo was scheduled to visit Greenland's capital Nuuk and to make a second stop to see New York Air National Guard troops deployed to assist climate research, part of a push to show the US commitment to the Arctic. But State Department spokeswoman Morgan Ortagus said Pompeo was postponing the trip "due to a need for the secretary to be in Washington" on Thursday. "We look forward to rescheduling the secretary's visit at a time convenient for Greenland, Denmark and the United States," she said. Greenland is an autonomous territory of Denmark, whose foreign minister, Anders Samuelsen, had also been set to meet Pompeo in Nuuk. A senior diplomat in Greenland, Kenneth Hoegh, earlier told AFP that Pompeo's visit was being postponed. Greenland's government in a statement said it was informed that "urgent matters" required Pompeo in Washington. The trip comes amid a spike in friction with Iran, after the United States announced the deployment of an aircraft carrier strike group and nuclear-capable B-52 bombers to counter what it alleged were imminent Iranian threats. Iran on Wednesday said it would no longer abide by some limits under a 2015 nuclear accord, a year to the date after President Donald Trump pulled the United States out of the deal and instead slapped sweeping sanctions. On Tuesday, instead of flying to Germany, Pompeo made an unannounced detour to Iraq -- where Iran has a major influence -- and said that the country's leaders had promised to protect US interests. Pompeo's tour of Greenland was meant to have closed out a four-day visit to Europe that started in Finland, where he attended a meeting of the eight members of the Arctic Council. While sceptical about fighting climate change, Pompeo noted that new sea routes were opening in the usually frozen Arctic -- and challenged the role of China in seeking interests in the region. Pompeo spent Wednesday in London where he discussed the tensions with Iran and delivered remarks on religious freedom, one of his key priorities. Topics : MikePompeo US diplomacy Arctic Greenland cancellation Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Thu, May 9, 2019 14:42 961 db1d47cf6ffbed4060cffaa873713782 4 Business beef,imports,Argentine,Amran-Sulaiman Free The government is considering importing beef from Argentina to reduce the countrys dependency on traditional suppliers like Australia and New Zealand, Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman has said. We are looking at countries that export meat so there is healthy competition that will benefit the people [as customers], Amran said in Jakarta on Wednesday after meeting with Argentine Vice President Gabriela Michetti as quoted by kontan.co.id. He said there were three requirements meat and livestock exporters needed to meet the commodity must be free from disease, meet the halal requirements and be sold at a competitive price. Amran admitted that Indonesia was heavily dependent on Australia to meet the domestic demand for meat. He said Argentina claimed it could supply meat at a cheaper price, namely US$3 per kilogram for medium grade meat, free on board (FOB). Agriculture Ministry Livestock and Animal Health Director General I Ketut Diarmita said before Indonesia decided to import beef from Argentina, the government needed to ensure the meat met the domestic requirements. He said meat could be important from Argentina soon, as long as both countries had a mutual commitment to boosting bilateral trade. Indonesia has also offered to export several agricultural commodities, including mangosteens, bananas, pineapple, salak, coffee and pepper as well as edible bird nests. Trade between Indonesia and Argentina was recorded at US$1.68 billion in 2018, a 17.96 percent increase from 2017. (bbn) Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Thu, May 9, 2019 09:35 961 db1d47cf6ffbed4060cffaa8736fb24f 1 National capital-city-relocation,Bukit-Soeharto,East-Kalimantan Free After the plan to relocate the countrys capital city gained momentum following a recent Cabinet meeting, President Joko Jokowi Widodo named Bukit Soeharto (Soeharto Hill) in East Kalimantan a suitable place for a new capital city due to its adequate infrastructure. Despite the recent buzz, however, Bukit Soeharto has yet to become a household name and is relatively obscure compared to other, better-known candidates for a new capital city such as Pontianak in West Kalimantan and Palangkaraya in Central Kalimantan. The question remains: What makes Bukit Soeharto Jokowis unlikely favored spot for a new capital city? Bukit Soeharto is a 61,850-hectare forest in Kutai Kartanegara regency, East Kalimantan. The location can be reached by road in about one and a half hours from Samarinda and 45 minutes from Balikpapan, the two largest cities in the province. The eponymous Soeharto in Bukit Soeharto refers to none other than the New Order leader, who was said to have traversed the forest on his way to Samarinda from Balikpapan during his regime, as reported by Antara news agency. Through Agriculture Ministerial Decree No. 818/1982, Soeharto named the location the Bukit Soeharto Conservation Forest, which then covered 27,000 hectares. The government subsequently expanded the conservation area over the years until it covered 61,850 ha in 2004, when the Environment and Forestry Ministry declared it to be the Bukit Soeharto Grand Forest Park. Jokowi mentioned that there was enough infrastructure surrounding the location. Bukit Soeharto is located at about the midway point of the toll road between Samarinda and Balikpapan. Both cities also have airports: Aji Muhammad Sulaiman Sepinggan Airport in Balikpapan and APT Pranoto Samarinda Airport in Samarinda. Known as a Taman Hutan Raya (Grand Forest Park) in the province, the sprawling Bukit Soeharto is also home to local wildlife conservation groups such as the Wanariset Samboja Center of Orangutan Rehabilitation and Reintroduction. In addition, Bukit Soeharto is also home to Mulawarman Universitys forest education site, according to kompas.com. According to experts, Bukit Soehartos current status as a national forest park could save the government a considerable amount of money allocated for land acquisition, since the entire area is state-owned. Previously, National Planning Minister Bambang Brodjonegoro said the government had invited leaders of four provinces Central Kalimantan, South Kalimantan, East Kalimantan and West Sulawesi to suggest locations for a new capital in their respective jurisdictions. East Kalimantan Governor Isran Noor proposed the idea of relocating the nations capital city to Bukit Soeharto. The President said that, in addition to taking into account infrastructure, the capital city relocation efforts would also consider areas that are not prone to disasters. The idea to relocate the capital has been in place since the era of founding president Sukarno when he mentioned that Palangkaraya, the Central Kalimantan provincial capital, could be the nations capital. (rfa) Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Agnes Anya (The Jakarta Post) United Nations, United States Thu, May 9 2019 United Nations Secretary-General AntOnio Guterres has called on members of the UN Security Council (UNSC) to double down on the training of peacekeepers being deployed on overseas missions so they can better adapt in the increasingly complex and hostile environments. Much still needs to be done to prepare peacekeepers deployed in some of the worlds most dangerous regions, Guterres said on Tuesday, urging participating countries to consider increased funding, in-kind contributions of equipment and the provision of trainers. Our peacekeepers are deployed to increasingly complex and often hostile environments, he said in New York during an open debate on training and capacity building for UN peacekeeping missions. Training prepares them for their vital peacekeeping tasks and improves their performance [while reducing] fatalities. to Read Full Story SUBSCRIBE NOW Starting from IDR 55,000/month Unlimited access to our web and app content e-Post daily digital newspaper No advertisements, no interruptions Privileged access to our events and programs Subscription to our newsletters We accept Register to read 3 premium articles for free Already subscribed? login BENSALEM, Pa. , May 09, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Law Offices of Howard G. Smith reminds investors of the upcoming May 28, 2019 deadline to file a lead plaintiff motion in the class action filed on behalf of investors who purchased American Renal Associates Holdings, Inc. (American Renal or the Company) (NYSE: ARA ) securities between August 10, 2016 and March 27, 2019, inclusive (the Class Period). Investors suffering losses on their Health Insurance Innovations investments are encouraged to contact the Law Offices of Howard G. Smith to discuss their legal rights in this class action at 888-638-4847 or by email to howardsmith@howardsmithlaw.com . On March 8, 2019, American Renal disclosed that in October 2018 the SEC had requested documents and information regarding revenue recognition, collections, and other related matters. Also, the Company announced that it would delay filing its 2018 annual report while the Audit Committee investigated the Companys revenue recognition methods and accounting practices. On this news, shares of American Renal fell $2.05 per share, or more than 16%, to close at $10.46 on March 8, 2019, thereby injuring investors. Then, on March 27, 2019, American Renal announced that certain financial statements would be restated and that its Chief Financial Officer had resigned. The Audit Committee found that the Company did not appropriately reconcile its contractual allowance estimates for discounts and price concessions with cash subsequently received in respect of prior period patient claims. The Company also disclosed that the required adjustments would reduce operating income for fiscal 2017 by at least $10 million and would have a cumulative impact on fiscal years 2014 to 2018 in the range of negative $5 million to positive $5 million. Furthermore, the Company stated that it expected to revise related metrics such as revenue per treatment and days sales outstanding during the affected financial periods based on the Audit Committees ongoing review. On this news, shares of American Renal fell by as much as 35% on March 28, 2019, thereby further injuring investors. The complaint filed in this class action alleges that throughout the Class Period, Defendants made materially false and misleading statements regarding the Companys business, operational and compliance policies. Specifically, Defendants made false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that: (1) issues with American Renals accounting process for revenue recognition, collections, and related matters would give rise to a U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") investigation into the same, and increased regulatory scrutiny by the SEC; (2) American Renal's financial statements for the fiscal years 2014, 2015, 2016 and 2017 contained in its Annual Reports for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2017, and its condensed consolidated financial statements in quarterly reports from 2016 through 2018 were false and could not be relied upon; (3) American Renal had material weaknesses in its internal control over financial reporting; and (4) as a result, defendants' public statements were materially false and misleading at all relevant times. If you purchased shares of American Renal during the Class Period you may move the Court no later than May 28, 2019 to ask the Court to appoint you as lead plaintiff if you meet certain legal requirements. To be a member of the class action you need not take any action at this time; you may retain counsel of your choice or take no action and remain an absent member of the class action. If you wish to learn more about this class action, or if you have any questions concerning this announcement or your rights or interests with respect to these matters, please contact Howard G. Smith, Esquire, of Law Offices of Howard G. Smith, 3070 Bristol Pike, Suite 112, Bensalem, Pennsylvania 19020 by telephone at (215) 638-4847, toll-free at (888) 638-4847, or by email to howardsmith@howardsmithlaw.com , or visit our website at www.howardsmithlaw.com . This press release may be considered Attorney Advertising in some jurisdictions under the applicable law and ethical rules. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin (The Jakarta Post) Fri, May 10 2019 The following are four shortened versions of articles from the Lifestyle (J+) and Travel channel on our website. If you are keen to read the full articles or want to look for more interesting lifestyle pieces, complete with photos and videos, pay a visit to the Life channel in our website. However, for quick access, download QR scanner application in your smartphone and scan the codes display next to the articles. Wakatobi Islands: Underwater nirvana like no other to Read Full Story SUBSCRIBE NOW Starting from IDR 55,000/month Unlimited access to our web and app content e-Post daily digital newspaper No advertisements, no interruptions Privileged access to our events and programs Subscription to our newsletters We accept Register to read 3 premium articles for free Already subscribed? login Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin (The Jakarta Post) Fri, May 10 2019 Balancing act: An Indian Tamil folk dancer performs during the 2019 Tamil sangamam cultural festival at JI Expo Kemayoran, Central Jakarta, a showcase of the ethnic groups cultural expressions drawing more than 800 guests comprising members of the Tamil diaspora in Jakarta and their Indonesian friends. (Courtesy of Indonesia Tamil Sangam) JI Expo Kemayoran, Central Jakarta The Indonesia Tamil Sangam (ITS) community hosted a cultural carnival recently called the sangamam, showcasing the food, culture and artistic expression of the Tamil people, most of whom come from India, Sri Lanka, Malaysia and Singapore. to Read Full Story SUBSCRIBE NOW Starting from IDR 55,000/month Unlimited access to our web and app content e-Post daily digital newspaper No advertisements, no interruptions Privileged access to our events and programs Subscription to our newsletters We accept Register to read 3 premium articles for free Already subscribed? login Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin (Agence France-Presse) Fri, May 10, 2019 05:07 960 db1d47cf6ffbed4060cffaa873720cf6 2 News ride-sharing,public-transportation,traffic-congestion,san-francisco,Uber,Lyft,ride-hailing-service,travel Free One of the early promises of the ride-hailing era ushered in by Uber and Lyft was that the new entrants would complement public transit, reduce car ownership, and help alleviate urban congestion. But a new study on tech hub San Francisco published Wednesday in Science Advances has found the opposite may be in fact be true: far from reducing traffic, the companies were the biggest contributors to its growth as commuters ditched bus rides or walking for the convenience of their mobile-app summoned rides. The peer-reviewed paper, which adds to a growing body of research in the area, was co-authored by scientists at the University of Kentucky and a team at the San Francisco County Transportation Authority (SFCTA). It used 2010, when so-called transportation network companies (TNCs) didn't exist, as its baseline to compare travel times and roadway conditions to 2016, when they were firmly established. But the period also saw the city's population grow from 805,000 to 876,000, while some 150,000 jobs were added to the economy and numerous changes made to the road network. In order to account for these developments, the authors used a computer model to establish a counterfactual: what would things look like if ride-hailing companies had not hit the scene? Greg Erhardt, an assistant professor in engineering at the University of Kentucky, told AFP that the team had indeed found "some substitution" from private cars to TNCs as well as a slight increase in carpooling. "But the net effect is that two-thirds of TNCs are new cars added to the roadway, that would otherwise not be present." The team also found that weekday vehicle hours of delay -- defined as the difference in travel time in congested versus free-flow conditions -- increased by 62 percent and that average speeds decreased by 13 percent between 2010 and 2016. By contrast, in the simulated model without ride-hailing companies, weekday vehicle hours of delay increased by only 22 percent and average speeds decreased by just four percent. Deadheading, pickups and drop-offs The findings were challenged by Lyft, which said the study had failed to account for increased freight and commercial deliveries -- an area where Amazon and others have aggressively expanded in recent years, as well as tourism growth. "Lyft is actively working with cities on solutions backed by years of economic and engineering research, such as comprehensive congestion pricing and proven infrastructure investment," the company said in a statement noting its investments in shared rides and bikes. Read also: San Francisco set to impose road tolls and reservation system for their iconic 'Crooked Street' Uber likewise said: "While studies disagree on causes for congestion, almost everyone agrees on the solution," adding it too backed proposals for congestion charges. The study comes as rideshare drivers in major US cities were set to stage a series of strikes ahead of Uber's keenly anticipated Wall Street debut. Lyft went public in March. Proponents of ridesharing often cite the argument that the majority of rides take place at non-peak times, such as when people have gone for a night out and are returning home from bars. But the study found peaks occurring at 7:00 am and 8:00 am and then again around 5:00 pm and 6:00 pm. Among the cars' most disruptive activities on traffic flow was curbside pickups and drop-offs, especially on major arterial roads, it found. Another notable effect was so-called "deadheading," which Erhardt explained as driving around in search of the next customer. "It doesn't serve a purpose in terms of transporting a person. So that's purely an addition to traffic." Data scraping The study relied on background traffic speed from GPS data obtained from a commercial vendor, but when the researchers approached the companies to share their own trip data, they were denied access. They were forced then to rely on a method of data scraping developed by Northeastern University that uses the companies' public apps to learn about vehicle movements. Elliot Martin, a research engineer at the University of California Berkeley's Transportation Sustainability Research Center, who was not connected to the study, said its methodology was rigorous. "I think that they did a good job of trying to draw comparisons, to look at what would have happened in a world where TNCs didn't exist versus where they did exist," he said, adding the methodology was the "best available" given the amount of information. Despite the findings, ride-hailing isn't all bad, said co-author Joe Castiglione of the SFCTA. "They are providing services like helping people move around in the evening when transit isn't great, or assisting the visually impaired," he told AFP. The trick, he said, was to determine "how do we manage the positive benefits without the negative externalities" through new policies like congestion pricing or curbside drop off regulation. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin (Xinhua) Sydney, Australia Thu, May 9, 2019 12:36 961 db1d47cf6ffbed4060cffaa87370f0b3 2 News zero-waste,Airlines,travel,Qantas,Australia Free The first-ever commercial flight to produce "zero waste" has taken to the skies on Wednesday, as part of a new initiative from the Australian airline Qantas to cut single-use plastics that end up in landfill. Flying from Sydney to Adelaide, all products and packaging onboard QF739 will either be reused, recycled or disposed of as compost. "In the process of carrying over 50 million people every year, Qantas and Jetstar currently produce an amount of waste equivalent to 80 fully-laden Boeing 747 jumbo jets," Qantas Domestic CEO Andrew David said. "We want to give customers the same level of service they currently enjoy, but without the amount of waste that comes with it." "This flight is about testing our products, refining the waste process and getting feedback from our customers," he added. Read also: Not so fantastic: Can Japan end its love affair with plastic? As well as all-digital boarding passes and electronic bag tags, around 1000 single-use plastic items were swapped for more environmentally friendly alternatives. With meal containers made from sugar cane and cutlery constructed from crop starch, David explained the new sustainable solutions will save around 34 kg of waste per flight, equating to 150 tons per year on the Sydney to Adelaide route. Set to roll out the initiative on other routes, Qantas said its goal is to eliminate 100 million single use plastic items every year by the end of 2020 by replacing 45 million plastic cups, 30 million cutlery sets, 21 million coffee cups and 4 million headrest covers with sustainable substitutes. From 2019, the airline will also offer customers frequent flyer points for participating in their carbon offset scheme. May 09 2019 9:00 am [COMMUNICATED] 35 Israelis were reportedly detained in a Ukrainian airport in February, after being told that they would not be allowed to enter the country. Heated cell phone footage showed Israelis, most of them religious, arguing with airport personnel after being kept without beds or access to kosher food for over 24 hours. Yesh Atid MK Yoel Razvozov said the detention was apparently revenge for the conduct of Israeli immigration authorities at Ben Gurion Airport toward Ukrainian tourists requesting to enter Israel, the Walla news site reported. (Times of Israel) The phenomenon of Israelis and other Jews being stranded in the Ukraine, however, is not uncommon: every day travelers, either due to fight delays or lack of planning, struggle to find kosher accommodations in the infamously antisemitic country. Rabbi Hillel Cohen is trying to change that. In addition to being the Rav of a Ukrainian shul, Rabbi Cohen has dedicated much of his time to advising and hosting Jewish travellers. I personally receive many calls for help every day from the hundreds of thousands of Jewish tourists flying to Kiev and Odessa. Half of every day is spent helping Jewish tourists who are stranded in the local airports without food and helping them with whatever they need: missed flights, passport problems, medical emergencies, lost items, or just help with translation. Cohen has personally worked out deals with Kiev and Odessa airport food stalls, and personally stocks them with kosher sandwiches. He also recently raised money to donate a sefer Torah to the airport, so that the many minyanim praying there each day have the ability to lein. It is an ambitious endeavor, but an essential one: thousands of Jews travel to the Ukraine each month, and until now there has been a shocking lack of resources. Rabbi Cohen has a revolutionary new project on the horizon: a hotline in both Hebrew and English. He cant do it alone, however: Ive always tried my best to help, but there is a limit to how much one person can do. Rabbi Cohen has entreated the public to join him in this special project. He believes that Jews should have access to the resources they need, even in countries which shut them out. Donate here so that the next time a frum family is stuck, they can have a meal on you. TORONTO, May 09, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- WPT Industrial Real Estate Investment Trust (the REIT) (TSX: WIR.U - OTCQX: WPTIF) announced today the results of voting for trustees at its annual meeting of unitholders held earlier today (the Meeting). Each of the nominees listed in the management information circular dated April 5, 2019 was elected as a trustee of the REIT at the Meeting. On a vote conducted by ballot, the voting results were: Nominee # of Votes For % of Votes For # of Votes Withheld % of Votes Withheld Milo D. Arkema 35,430,232 99.87% 45,363 0.13% Louis DiNunzio 34,601,026 97.53% 874,569 2.47% Scott T. Frederiksen 35,462,077 99.96% 13,518 0.04% Sarah B. Kavanagh 34,724,639 97.88% 750,956 2.12% Stuart H.B. Smith 34,759,679 97.98% 715,916 2.02% Pamela J. Spackman 35,467,472 99.98% 8,123 0.02% Robert T. Wolf 35,431,432 99.88% 44,163 0.12% Details of the voting results on all matters considered at the Meeting are available in the REITs report of voting results, which is available under the REITs profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. About WPT Industrial Real Estate Investment Trust WPT Industrial Real Estate Investment Trust is an unincorporated, open-ended real estate investment trust established pursuant to a declaration of trust under the laws of the Province of Ontario. The REITs objective is to acquire, develop, manage and own industrial properties located in the United States, with a particular focus on warehouse and distribution industrial real estate. WPT Industrial, LP (the REITs operating subsidiary) indirectly owns a portfolio of properties consisting of approximately 21.1 million square feet of gross leasable area, comprised of 69 industrial properties and one office property located in 16 states in the United States. The REIT pays monthly cash distributions, currently at $0.0633 per Unit, or approximately $0.76 per Unit on an annualized basis, in US funds. For more information, please contact: Scott Frederiksen, Chief Executive Officer WPT Industrial Real Estate Investment Trust Tel: (612) 800-8501 32 teams from universities across the country will compete from May 7 to 12. The best team will go on to represent Vietnam at the ABU Asia-Pacific Robot Contest 2019 in Mongolia in August, which will bring together the best team of each country in the Asia-Pacific region to compete on the international playground. ABU Robocon 2019 will be held in Ulaanbaatar, the capital and largest city of Mongolia, with the slogan "Sharing the knowledge". This years contest theme of Great Urtuu is inspired by a traditional messenger system of Mongolia called Urtuu, which was innovated by the nomadic Mongolians for exchanging information over long distances. Robocon Vietnam is an annual robot contest which has been held by Vietnam Television (VTV) since 2002. As a new feature of this years contest, the organizers have created live-streaming sessions on social media to provide technical assistance for participating students. The ABU Asia-Pacific Robot Contest was founded in 2002 by the Asia-Pacific Broadcasting Union. In the competition, robots compete to complete a task within a set period of time. The contest aims to create friendship among young people with similar interests who will lead their countries in the 21st century as well as to help advance engineering and broadcasting technologies in the region. VANCOUVER, British Columbia, May 09, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Acadian Timber Corp. (TSX:ADN) (Acadian Timber or the Company) announced that the nominees listed in the management proxy circular for the 2019 Annual Meeting of Shareholders were elected as directors of the Company. Detailed results of the votes by proxy for the election of directors held at the Annual Meeting of Shareholders today in Toronto are set out below. Nominee Votes For % For Votes Withheld % Withheld Phil Brown 10,220,521 97.97% 212,222 2.03% Reid Carter 10,386,982 99.56% 45,761 0.44% Malcolm Cockwell 10,214,006 97.90% 218,737 2.10% Karen Oldfield 10,377,530 99.47% 55,213 0.53% Bruce Robertson 10,223,246 97.99% 209,497 2.01% Ben Vaughan 10,352,297 99.23% 80,446 0.77% About Acadian Timber Acadian Timber Corp. is a leading supplier of primary forest products in Eastern Canada and the Northeastern U.S. With a total of 2.4 million acres of land under management, Acadian is one of the largest timberland operators in New Brunswick and Maine. Acadian owns and manages approximately 1.1 million acres of freehold timberlands in New Brunswick and Maine, and provides timber services relating to approximately 1.3 million acres of Crown licensed timberlands in New Brunswick. Acadian's products include softwood and hardwood sawlogs, pulpwood and biomass by-products, sold to approximately 90 regional customers. Acadians business strategy is to maximize cash flows from its existing timberland assets while growing our business by acquiring assets on a value basis and utilizing our operations-oriented approach to drive improved performance. Acadians shares are listed for trading on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol ADN. To celebrate the beloved designer's legacy, the Victoria and Albert Museum in London has curated an exhibition celebrating her best work, from her early days in the Chelsea Bazaar to having her clothes on the pages of Vogue. Our lifestyle editor Ruby is a huge fan of all things '60s, so she took a trip to the V&A to see if the exhibition would live up to the hype... Image credit: Ruby Naldrett I arrived at the exhibition at 10am, which is when the museum opens for the day, so it's the perfect time to get to an exhibition before it's filled with people. It's a lot smaller the Dior one, which is also at the V&A, but I think that works in its favour. Spaced out across two floors, vintage Mary Quant designs fill the exhibition space. Despite her huge popularity and influence, Quant is a designer than I embarrassingly knew little about - just the stories from my grandmother about her boutique in Chelsea and her very short skirts. We're introduced to Quant from the very beginning. She studied illustration at Goldsmiths and there's a chance to see some of her earliest work - even then it's clear that she had a bright eye for fashion design. Image credit: Ruby Naldrett A big part of Quant's career and her legacy was her ability to take menswear shapes and styles and adapt them for women. I was taken aback at how modern the clothes looked, and it's clear to see where brands such as Alexa Chung and Miu Miu get a lot of their inspiration. My favourite piece from the whole exhibition was a high waisted skirt with matching waistcoat (pictured far left above). It was styled over a striped shirt and with a tie, and it's something I would 100% wear today (and may or may not have trawled eBay trying to locate.) Image credit: Ruby Naldrett In contrast to her masculine shapes, Quant also designed hyper-feminine pieces - using fabrics from Liberty and William Morris. Florals are a huge theme throughout her early work, as are exaggerated ruffles. One thing all the garments have in common is, of course, Quant's signature micro mini skirt. For years women had been restricted by their long pencil skirts - my grandmother tells me that in the '50s their skirts were so impractical, the driver would have to lift women on to the buses because their movements were so restricted. Quant put a stop to this, and we have her to thank for the freedom of having our legs out! Image credit: Ruby Naldrett It's not all clothing either - the exhibition has a large array of Quant's early makeup on display. Somewhat naively I believed that contour and highlight was a new invention, brought into the public sphere thanks to the likes of Kim Kardashian. However I couldn't be more wrong - Quant was selling 'face shapers' (dark contour powders), highlighters and false lashes over five decades ago! There are also interesting video clips throughout the exhibition where women who worked on the Quant beauty counters chat about what it was like. Before the days of YouTube tutorials and step-by-step makeup guides, Quant's beauty team were offering detailed cartoon strips as their version of a 'tutorial'. Image credit: Ruby Naldrett The UK Foreign Office has advised against all but essential travel to Sri Lanka following terrorist attacks on Easter Sunday which killed more than 250 people, including at least eight British nationals. On the 21st April 2019, three churches and three hotels were targeted by Islamist terrorist groups in central Colombo, Colombo Kochchikade and Negombo. Image credit: Chathura indika on Unsplash The attacks, according to the BBC, are the deadliest violence Sri Lanka has witnessed since the end of the countrys civil war in 2009. The UK Foreign Office has warned that there may be further attacks and that tourist hotspots are likely to be targeted. ABTA, previously the Association of British Travel Agents, has made the following announcement: The Foreign Office has changed its travel advice to Sri Lanka and now advises against all but essential travel. Customers who are due to travel imminently to the island on package holidays will be offered options of deferring their date of travel, transferring to another destination or a full refund. Customers who have booked independently will need to discuss their options with their airline and accommodation provider. Islamic State (IS) has claimed responsibility for the attacks but Sri Lankan Health Minister, Rajitha Senaratne, blames National Thowheed Jamath (NTJ), a Sri Lankan Islamist group. The true source of the attacks is unclear. The Sri Lankan government has since banned the use of face coverings in public, motivated by a desire to aid identification of the Easter Sunday bombers and other potential attackers. Although specific Islamic garments including the niqab and the burka have not been explicitly listed, many feel that this policy is targeted at the Muslim community. It is likely that this policy will increase tensions across Sri Lanka. Curfews have also been put in place in some areas. During the civil war, Muslims were targeted by Tamil Tiger rebels. This bred deep-seated dissatisfaction with the government. The recent policy is likely to exacerbate tensions across this island nation, threatening further violence. Anyone planning to visit Sri Lanka should remain informed of the developing situation. See the Foreign and Commonwealth office advice for Sri Lanka here. Lead image credit: Chathura indika on Unsplash EDMONTON, Alberta, May 09, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Alcanna Inc. ("Alcanna" or the "Company") (TSX: CLIQ) held its annual and special meeting of shareholders on May 9, 2019 (the "Meeting"). The complete voting results from the Meeting are as follows: Election of Directors Each of the six (6) nominees listed in the Management Information Circular of the Company was elected as a Director of the Company. Director Nominee Votes For % Votes Withheld % John Barnett 18,541,635 99.12% 164,825 0.88% James F.C. Burns 18,583,341 99.34% 123,119 0.66% Darren Karasiuk 18,567,912 99.26% 138,548 0.74% Peter Lynch 18,579,460 99.32% 127,000 0.68% Karen Prentice 18,546,708 99.15% 159,752 0.85% Denis Ryan 18,556,690 99.20% 149,770 0.80% Appointment of Auditors PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP were re-appointed as auditors of the Company until the close of the next annual meeting of shareholders at a remuneration to be fixed by the Board of Directors. Votes For % Votes Withheld % 17,135,037 86.11% 2,763,873 13.89% Confirmation of New By-Law No. 1 The ordinary resolution to confirm New By-Law No. 1 as a by-law of the Company was passed by the shareholders. Votes For % Votes Against % 18,959,487 99.18% 157,454 0.82% Full voting results on all matters voted on at the Meeting will be filed under the Company's profile at www.sedar.com . About Alcanna Inc. Alcanna is one of the largest private sector retailers of alcohol in North America and the largest in Canada operating 236 locations in Alberta, British Columbia and Alaska. The Company also operates six cannabis retail stores under the "Nova Cannabis" brand, with five locations in the Province of Alberta and one in the Province of Ontario. With revenues in excess of $600 million per year, Alcanna processes over 18 million individual retail transactions of beverage alcohol and cannabis. Alcanna's common shares and convertible subordinated debentures trade on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbols "CLIQ" and "CLIQ.DB", respectively. Additional information about Alcanna Inc. is available at www.sedar.com and the Companys website at www.alcanna.com . For further information David Gordey Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer Alcanna Inc. (780) 497-3262 10 Top Tours in Phuket By In Conjunction Thursday 9 May 2019, 03:32PM Phuket is one of the most famous provinces in Thailand and the destination of many international tourists. In fact, Thailand is made up of small islands that Phuket is the largest island of its own. The island in the southwest of Thailand is one of the most legendary tourist destinations in the world. Phuket is known for its beautiful and outstanding beaches all over the world. There are plenty of really memorable things to do in Phuket and also plenty of places to visit in Phuket. Phuket alone is a legendary island for spending the holidays but day trips from Phuket for different purposes can give you an amazing vacation. Here are some of the tourist attractions of Phuket Island. The following list is our pick of the things which you should absolutely not miss while in Phuket. Green Elephant Sanctuary Park It has greenery and a good environment for family gatherings. The fascinating thing about Green Elephant is that there are several elephants and you can see the elephants by visiting this center and even ride them. Phuket Aquarium In 1983, the aquarium was built as part of the Phuket Biology Center project. It has been more than 30 years since the construction of this recreational complex, but we must say that the center has recently been completely renovated and now it's a luxury place to visit. More than 300,000 tourists visit the Phuket Aquarium every year. Here you can get acquainted with various species of aquatic in Thailand. Big Buddha Phuket The religion of most Thai people is Buddhist, so there are numerous temples throughout the country. Buddhist sculptures are abundantly seen in various Thai cities. One of the most famous Buddhist sculptures in Thailand, the great Buddhist Phuket, is that seeing this huge statue will surely be wonderful for you. 10 Top Tours in Phuket Phuket has many tourist attractions that certainly can not be visited on a single trip. Being a place of great variety, there's something among the best things to do in Phuket for every kind of traveler. We have sorted the top 10 Day Trips and tour packages in Phuket that you should not miss: # 1: Flying Hanuman Zip-line Park Phuket is one of the lush green areas of Phuket which also has excitement for tourists. You will fly low through the forest and high above the treetops to see this Phuket hillside from every perspective. Flying Hanuman offers different packages, you can choose from different combinations of 30 wooden platforms on the trees that are connected to rappel cables, air bridges, spiral staircases, and zipper liners. # 2: Full Day Phi Phi Island Tour by Royal Jet Cruiser Phi Phi islands are a destination that has to be visited by those who are traveling for the first time. These islands are located almost 50km from Phuket. Phi Phi Leh Island with a stunning view of limestone cliffs and its emerald green waters will give you an exceptional experience of swimming and snorkeling. Phi Phi islands are full of hidden caves that have to be explored. It will be a great experience to swim in these crystal clear waters with beautiful beaches. There are a number of tour operators in Phuket offering different Phi Phi Tour Packages with different prices and itineraries, some are taking you to Phi Phi by Speedboat , some by big-boat or ferry while others are offering a mixture of Big boat and speed boat where your main travel to the Phi Phi island will be with the big boat and then you will do the sightseeing with the speedboat. Before choosing your Phi Phi Tour package, make sure that your tour package includes insurance, snorkeling gear and tour guide. # 3: James Bond Island James Bond Islands is comprised of 100 islands with a total area of 400 square kilometers. A lot of pictures of these islands can be found in Guinness Book, some for their beauty and some other for their strange appearances. These islands, also known as Khao Phing Kan, are a popular one day trip destination from Phuket among touristic places. You can swim, boat, and visit around these islands. A beauty symbol of these islands is the beach, which is a very tall rock with many small caves in it. When you are booking your online James Bond Island tour package note that usually Tour price does NOT INCLUDE National Park Entrance. # 4: Splash Jungle Water Park Dont forget visiting Splash Jungle Water Park when going to Phuket. It is a very interesting destination to have a very exciting experience with your family. Providing a stunning view to the May Kao beach, it is a place of attractive activities for the children and adults. Water sliders are immersed in over 6 million liters of water and it will absolutely be very enjoyable to play in it. Two restaurants are seen in Splash Jungle, each of which provides a delicious set of the best Thai foods. Although it cannot be considered as a very large water park, but it is the best water park in Phuket and it will give you a memorable experience during your holiday in Phuket. # 5: Phi Phi Island + Maya Bay + Bamboo Island As we said earlier in this article Phi Phi island is one of the most popular touristic places in Thailand and you can find a variety of different Phi Phi Tour Packages, This is a golden combination package of 3 beautiful islands, Phi Phi Island, Maya Bay and Bamboo Island . The Phi Phi Island became famous after the movie The Beach 1980 was released. It was filmed on the stunning beach at Maya Bay. Phi Phi islands have beautiful places such as limestone cliffs vertically jutting out of the water along with weathered rocks and minerals that create colorful patterns of yellow, red, and orange. Phi Phi Lay consists of two amazing coves: Maya Bay and Pilah Cove, each of which has tall cliffs that are in a semicircular shape. Such a beautiful place is hard to find! # 6: Similan Island - 2 Days / 1 Night (Tent) The Similan Island National Park is located 85km north-west of Phuket and 65km west of Khao Lak. This island consists of nine islands that are known for coral sand beaches and crystal blue waters. Pleasuring weather, shining sun by the blue sea, green mountains and singing birds are among the characteristics of this island. Having beautiful aquatics and colorful corals along with algae, it is an amazing place for diving. You can also go boating if you are not interested in diving and enjoy the stunning views in Similan Island. # 7: Khao Lak Safari - White Water Rafting This one is a bit different tour and our recommendation if you are on a budget trip in Phuket, Khao Lak is located 80km north of Phuket, adjacent to Ranong and Surat Thani. It is also 788km from Bangkok. This place is popular among eco-tourists and adventurers. White water rafting along the Song Phraek River in Phang Nga is exciting and fun. The view is beautiful, the air is fresh and you can hear the river when you get there. This wild river is enjoyable for amateurs and those who are familiar with furious current. There are three national parks in this region. It has caves, lakes, restaurants, and shopping centers. Surin and Similan Islands are also near to this region. # 8: Surin Island - 3 Day 2 Night (Tent) If you have 3 days to spare during your stay in Phuket this package is for you! Stay at tent for two nights in Surin Island National Park, jungle walk, Snorkel in some of the best snorkeling spots in Thailand and see around the island with long tail boat all included in this tour package Surin Island is located in Phang Nga provice, north of Phuket. It is also 60km west of the small city of Khuranburi. Surin Marine National Park was promoted to an Andaman Asian Heritage Site in 2004. One of the best snorkeling sites in Thailand is the various coral around Surin Island. You are Welcome in Surin Island. # 9: Rok Island (One Day Tour) Rok Island consists of two islands of Rok Nok and Rok Nai. It is a good place for those who need to relax and experience the beautiful nature consisting of white sandy beach, crustal clear sea water, anemones and large nemos, beautiful corals, etc. Unlike other common one day tour packages from Phuket, you wont have lots of options to choose from as there are only a few operators offering The Rok Island Tour , You will be transferred to this unspoiled island and back to Phuket by speed catamaran from Phuket Marina pier, 1 Meal, Snorkeling gear and The national Park entrance fee is already included in this package. # 10: Siam Niramit Phuket What is the best program to attend in a rainy afternoon? Why not joining a cultural show? Siam Niramit Phuket is a cultural extravaganza that adds variety and vitality to the islands entertainment scene. It is located just off the By-pass Road in the outskirts of Phuket Town. The show features songs, dance routines and traditional martial arts. You just need to sit back, relax, and enjoy the historical perspectives of Thai arts and culture in this 70-minute performance. NEW YORK, May 09, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Pomerantz LLP announces that a class action lawsuit has been filed against KushCo Holdings, Inc. (KushCo or the Company) (OTCMKTS: KSHB) and certain of its officers. The class action, filed in United States District Court, for the Central District of California, and indexed under 19-cv-00798, is on behalf of a class consisting of all persons and entities who purchased or otherwise acquired KushCo securities between July 13, 2017 and April 9, 2019, both dates inclusive (the Class Period), seeking to recover damages caused by Defendants violations of the federal securities laws and to pursue remedies under Sections 10(b) and 20(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the Exchange Act) and Rule 10b-5 promulgated thereunder, against the Company and certain of its top officials. If you are a shareholder who purchased KushCo securities during the class period, you have until July 1, 2019, to ask the Court to appoint you as Lead Plaintiff for the class. A copy of the Complaint can be obtained at www.pomerantzlaw.com . To discuss this action, contact Robert S. Willoughby at rswilloughby@pomlaw.com or 888.476.6529 (or 888.4-POMLAW), toll-free, Ext. 9980. Those who inquire by e-mail are encouraged to include their mailing address, telephone number, and the number of shares purchased. [Click here to join this class action] KushCo primarily engages in the wholesale distribution of packaging supplies in the United States, Canada, Europe, and internationally. KushCo offers pop-top bottles; child resistant exit, paper exit, and foil barrier bags; tubes; and polystyrene, silicone-lined polystyrene or glass containers. KushCo also provides vaporizer cartridges, heating technologies, batteries, and disposable units; and hydrocarbon gases, including isobutene, n-butane, propane, ethanol, pre-mixes, custom blends, and other solvents. In the past several years, KushCo has expanded its services through the acquisition of several companies in the cannabis industry. For example, in May 2017, KushCo acquired CMP Wellness LLC (CMP Wellness), a privately-held manufacturer and distributor of Med-ePen brand vaporizer pens, cartridges, tanks, and accessories. Then, in May 2018, KushCo acquired Summit Innovations, LLC (Summit), a distributor of hydrocarbon products, such as propane and butane, to the legal cannabis industry. Finally, in July 2018, KushCo acquired The Hybrid Creative (Hybrid), a self-described premier creative agency for cannabis ventures, including branding, marketing, web, and strategy. The complaint alleges that throughout the Class Period, Defendants made materially false and misleading statements regarding the Companys business, operational and compliance policies. Specifically, Defendants made false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that: (i) KushCo made material accounting errors in connection with its acquisitions of CMP Wellness, Summit, and Hybrid; (ii) as a result, KushCos previously issued financial statements as of and for the fiscal years ended August 31, 2018 and August 31, 2017, included in the Companys Annual Reports on Form 10-K for such periods, and financial statements as of and for the quarterly periods ended May 31, 2017, November 30, 2017, February 28, 2018, May 31, 2018 and November 30, 2018, included in the Companys Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q for such periods, could not be relied upon; (iii) KushCos net loss for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2018, was more than twice as high than previously reported; (iv) KushCo and its managements assurances that its financial statements for those fiscal years and periods were accurate and fairly reported could not be relied upon; and (v) as a result, the Companys public statements were materially false and misleading at all relevant times. On April 9, 2019, KushCo issued a press release, attached as an exhibit to the Companys Current Report on Form 8-K (the April 2019 8-K), announcing the Companys decision to restate prior period financial statements for fiscal years 2017 and 2018 for non-cash items related to acquisitions of CMP Wellness, Summit, and Hybrid. Specifically, the April 2019 8-K disclosed that KushCo had inaccurately accounted for certain shared-settled contingent consideration relating to its CMP Wellness, Summit, and Hybrid acquisitions, by recording their respective earnout arrangements as equity rather than as liabilities. On this news, KushCos stock price fell $0.45 per share, or 7.76%, to close at $5.35 on April 10, 2019. The Pomerantz Firm, with offices in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, and Paris, is acknowledged as one of the premier firms in the areas of corporate, securities, and antitrust class litigation. Founded by the late Abraham L. Pomerantz, known as the dean of the class action bar, the Pomerantz Firm pioneered the field of securities class actions. Today, more than 80 years later, the Pomerantz Firm continues in the tradition he established, fighting for the rights of the victims of securities fraud, breaches of fiduciary duty, and corporate misconduct. The Firm has recovered numerous multimillion-dollar damages awards on behalf of class members. See www.pomerantzlaw.com . CONTACT: Robert S. Willoughby Pomerantz LLP rswilloughby@pomlaw.com Italian expat faces recklessness causing death charge over fatal boat collision PHUKET: The Italian expat involved in a boat collision over the Songkran Thai New Year holidays that resulted in the death of a 74-year-old Thai fisherman has been charged with recklessness causing death, police have confirmed. transportmarinedeathaccidentspolice By Tanyaluk Sakoot Thursday 9 May 2019, 06:26PM Italian expat Giorgio Nastri, 64, will be charged with recklessness causing death, police confirmed. Photo: Eakkapop Thongtub Italian expat Giorgio Nastri, 64, will be charged with recklessness causing death, police confirmed. Photo: Eakkapop Thongtub Rawai fisherman San Malee, 74, later died from injuries sustained in the collision. Photo: Eakkapop Thongtub Rawai fisherman San Malee, 74, later died from injuries sustained in the collision. Photo: Eakkapop Thongtub The Italian, Giorgio Nastri, 64, was involved in the collision between his boat and a longtail being operated by 74-year-old Rawai resident San Malee off Koh Bon, off Phukets southeast coast, on the morning of Apr 14. Mr San was brought ashore and rushed to hospital. (See story here.) However, Capt Somkiet Sarasin of the Chalong Police confirmed to The Phuket News on Apr 17 that Mr San had died in hospital from injuries sustained in the collision. Mr Nastri will be charged for recklessness causing death, Capt Somkiet confirmed to The Phuket News today (May 9). We believe the collision was the result of his recklessness, he added. I am still waiting for the forensic police to conclude their investigation. That may take about a month. They are very busy but said they would try to complete their investigation as soon as possible,Capt Somkiet said. After all the evidence has been gathered, I will forward the case to the Phuket Provincial Prosecutors Office to proceed with the charge, he added. Mr Nastri has been released without bail while the investigation is being conducted, Capt Somkiet said. Mr Nastri has paid B100,000 to Mr Sans relatives to cover medical expenses, Capt Somkiet noted. But the deceaseds relatives have demanded an additional B1.5 million in compensation, he added. Negotiations over the compensation for Mr Sans death are continuing, Capt Somkiet said. Both boats involved in the incident have been impounded while the investigation continues, Capt Somkiet confirmed. And the incident has been reported to Phuket Immigration, he said. Patsada Satthacharoen returns to Dream Phuket Hotel, beach club as MarCom Director PHUKET: Patsada Satthacharoen has returned to the Dream Phuket Hotel & Spa and Dream Beach Club as Director of Marketing Communications. Ms Patsada took up her post last Thursday (May 2) and is now overseeing all marketing communication activities for both the hotel and beach club. By The Phuket News Thursday 9 May 2019, 05:57PM This is Ms Patsadas second spell with Dream Phuket Hotel & Spa and Dream Beach Club, having previously played a foremost role in the successful pre-opening and launch of Dream Phuket Hotel & Spa and Dream Beach Club in 2016. This is Ms Patsadas second spell with Dream Phuket Hotel & Spa and Dream Beach Club, having previously played a foremost role in the successful pre-opening and launch of Dream Phuket Hotel & Spa and Dream Beach Club in 2016. During her previous tenure, Ms Patsada held the position of Director of Marketing Communications and Public Relations with the remit of handling all marketing communications, public relations and branding activities, including the design concept of all collaterals ranging from the hotel signage and its amenities, to the staff's uniforms, the properties websites and the brands social media presence. Having overseen nine openings and 10 rebranding projects during a 16-year career spent almost exclusively in the hotel and hospitality industry, Ms Patsada has earned something of a reputation as a specialist in this field, said a release issued today (May 9). Her in-depth experience includes working on the opening or rebranding of hotels for various international five-star chains in Australia, Thailand, Singapore and the Middle East, the release noted. Before rejoining Dream Phuket Hotel & Spa and Dream Beach Club, ms Patsada was responsible for five hotels managed by Minor Hotels Group in Qatar, which included the rebranding of Souq Waqif Boutique Hotels by Tivoli and three pre-opening projects at Tivoli Al Najada Doha Hotel, Oaks Al Najada Doha, and Souq Al Wakra Hotel Qatar. The fifth property under Ms Patsadas remit was the Banana Island Resort by Anatara, Minors flagship property in the Middle East and the number one hotel/resort in Qatar. Some of the previous positions held by Ms Patsada include Director of Marketing Communications at Compass Hospitality, where she oversaw its six Bangkok properties, Cluster Marketing Communications Manager at Courtyard Resorts by Marriott Thailand, where she was responsible for four properties in Phuket and Hua Hin, and Marketing Communications Manager at Mandarin Oriental Dhara Dhevi, which was voted Number 1 in the World in 2011 by Travel & Leisure Magazine, US. Other successful hotel pre-opening projects in Ms Patsadas impressive portfolio include Millennium Resort Patong Phuket, Sofitel Phokeethra Krabi Resort & Spa, Novotel Suvarnabhumi Airport Hotel (the official airport hotel of Bangkok), and Conrad Jupiters Casino on Australias Gold Coast. Away from hospitality, Ms Patsada played a key role in the highly successful launch of the Virgin Active brand in Thailand, before going on to break the sales record among eight regional countries in her role as Head of Marketing at Virgin Active Thailand. Having earned a Bachelor of Hotel Management from Griffith University in Australia before embarking on her successful career, Ms Patsada brings a wealth of experience and expertise to Dream Phuket Hotel & Spa and Dream Beach Club, the release added. Speaking on her plans and vision for Dream Phuket Hotel & Spa and Dream Beach Club, Ms Patsada said, I'm really excited to be re-joining Dream. Being involved in launching this project just a few years ago was a proud moment for me and now Im ready to bring my experiences from Australia, Thailand, Singapore and the Middle East to take Dream to another level. We have some exciting plans for 2019 and 2020. I think with Dream Beach Clubs position as the largest beach club in Phuket and the Level One nightclubs role as the most famous nightclub in the Bang Tao and Layan Beach area, we have a chance to really create something very special and unique here. THAI to submit B156bn new plane purchase plan to Cabinet BANGKOK: Thai Airways International (THAI) will seek Cabinet approval this month to buy or lease 38 new planes at an estimated cost of B156 billion, with 31 planes to be procured over the next five years. tourismtransport By Bangkok Post Thursday 9 May 2019, 10:58AM Thai Airways International (THAI) will seek Cabinet approval this month to buy or lease 38 new planes at an estimated cost of B156 billion, with 31 planes to be procured over the next five years. Photo: Bangkok Post Airline president Sumeth Damrongchaitham said on Tuesday (May 7) the aircraft acquisition plan would reach Deputy Prime Minister Somkid Jatusripitak this week and be put to the Cabinet later this month for approval. Procurement would be by purchase and leasing, with the planes a mix of wide and narrow body models, he said. There would be two phases. The first stage was for 31 planes to replace old ones within five years, and the second would be for seven other aircraft, Mr Sumeth said. The national airline was also studying new routes to increase income. Management would ask the airline board to approve a new Bangkok-Sendai (Japan) service, to be launched in November. THAI was also interested in flying the Bangkok-Manchester route, but had yet to conduct a thorough study of it, Mr Sumeth said. He hoped the airline could be profitable again in mid-2020. The move comes as the State Enterprise Policy Office (Sepo) is focused on five financially ailing state enterprises forced into business rehabilitation, aiming to make their turnaround efforts pay off, Sepos chief says. The five are flag carrier Thai Airways International Plc (THAI), the State Railway of Thailand (SRT), the Bangkok Mass Transit Authority (BMTA), TOT Plc and CAT Telecom, said director-general Prapas Kong-Ied. Improving loss-making state enterprises has been a priority for the National Council for Peace and Order since it came to power in May 2014. Two state enterprises the Small and Medium Enterprise Development Bank of Thailand (SME Bank) and Islamic Bank of Thailand (IBank) have exited from business rehabilitation plans. THAIs second phase of jet purchases is an urgent issue that must proceed, Mr Prapas said. Funding sources are a stumbling block for new aircraft purchases after THAIs board approved a plan to comply with the Cabinets recent resolution, he said. THAI has scrambled to move away from losses for several years amid intensified competition in air travel. The struggles of loss-making low-cost subsidiary Thai Smile and the grounding of Airbus 350s and their replacement with Boeing 737s and 747s that consume more fuel and incur higher maintenance costs have taken a bite out of operating performance, Mr Prapas said. To help make Thai Smile profitable, THAIs board appointed president Sumeth Damrongchaitham as chairman to bring the budget carriers policy in line with that of the parent airline. In 2018, THAIs net loss widened to B11.6 billion from B2.11bn in the previous year. Mr Prapas said SRTs business rehabilitation is expected to make strides with a plan to set up two subsidiaries: one is tasked with generating income from large land banks to solve the agencys retained loss, while another is to operate the Red Line electric railway. Unlike the Airport Rail Link, whose management plan must seek SRT board approval, the State Enterprise Policy Commission (superboard) wants the soon-to-be-set-up firm to run independently from SRT, Mr Prapas said. For the first phase of seven double-track train routes spanning a combined distance of 1,000 kilometres, all 13 contracts have been signed and construction is expected to be completed by 2022. The purchase of 3,000 new buses with a variety of fuel usages to halve fuel cost and lower maintenance cost, as well as the adoption of e-tickets to replace 5,000 human ticket-takers, are crucial in plans to bring the BMTAs earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation (ebitda) into positive territory. The Finance Ministry will consider shouldering BMTA debt in the hundreds of billions of baht once ebitda swings back to profit. For TOT and CAT, Mr Prapas said a subcommittee on business rehabilitation appointed by the superboard has instructed both state enterprises to map out a merger plan. TOT and CAT plan to amalgamate into a national telecom firm. Read original stories here and here. Woman dies as truck hits motorbike PHUKET: A woman has died after her motorbike was hit by a truck as she drove through a roadblock on Thepkrasattri Rd in Thalang in the early hours of this morning (May 9). accidentsdeathpolicetransport By Eakkapop Thongtub Thursday 9 May 2019, 11:31AM Police reported that the motorbike drove out in front of the truck from behind a red and white concrete road block. Photo: Eakkapop Thongtub Police reported that the motorbike drove out in front of the truck from behind a red and white concrete road block. Photo: Eakkapop Thongtub Police reported that the motorbike drove out in front of the truck from behind a red and white concrete road block. Photo: Eakkapop Thongtub The accident happened at approximately 5am on the east side of Thepkrasattri Rd near the PEA Thalang branch in Srisoonthorn subdistrict. Lt Sopanat Nayao of Thalang Police Station arrived at the scene to find 47-year-old Pattama Kingkokkruad lying unconscious at the side of the road near a grey Honda Wave motorbike. Also at the scene was the truck driver, Boonsong Tohkae, 53, waiting by the 10-wheel Hino truck that was involved in the accident. Lt Sopanat reported that Mr Boonsong was driving south from Mai Khao on his way to make a delivery to the main SuperCheap store in Rassada. As he drove along Thepkrasattri Rd, the motorbike drove out in front of him from behind a red and white concrete road block. He was unable to stop and they collided. Ms Pattama is believed to have died at the scene from the impact. She was pronounced dead on arrival at Thalang Hospital. Police took Mr Boonsong to Thalang Police Station for questioning. Both Mr Boonsong and Ms Pattama were tested for alcohol and police are awaiting the results. Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus NEWMARKET, Ontario, May 09, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- AirBoss of America Corp. (TSX: BOS) (the "Company"), announced today that the nominees listed in the April 9, 2019 Notice of Meeting and Management Information Circular of the Company were elected as directors of the Company at the Annual General and Special Meeting held earlier today in Aurora, Ontario (the "Meeting"). Detailed results of the vote for the election of directors and the appointment of auditors are set out below. Election of Directors Nominee Votes For % For Votes Withheld % Withheld Robert L. Hagerman 10,105,857 81.63 2,273,652 18.37 Mary Matthews 10,104,557 81.62 2,274,952 18.38 Robert McLeish 10,094,405 81.54 2,285,104 18.46 Brian A. Robbins 10,101,844 81.60 2,277,665 18.40 P. Grenville Schoch 11,062,028 89.36 1,317,481 10.64 Alan J. Watson 11,047,536 89.24 1,331,973 10.76 Appointment of KPMG LLP as Auditors Total Votes Percentage of Votes Cast Votes For 12,966,427 99.91 Votes Withheld 11,758 0.09 The head of Acacia Mining is taking issue with comments made by the new chief executive officer of its parent company, Barrick Gold. On Wednesday, Barricks Mark Bristow expressed his frustration over the failure to resolve a serious tax dispute between the Tanzanian government and Acacia. We are finding it difficult to get the Tanzanians and the Acacia board together, Bristow said in an interview. What were dealing with is a complete breakdown of relationships. But Acacia CEO Peter Geleta pushed back against the suggestion his company is responsible for the apparent standoff. Sadly, blaming Acacia for that is totally unacceptable, he said by phone Thursday. Its mesmerizing. Because we havent been involved. In 2017, Tanzania banned the export of unprocessed metals by miners, subsequently presenting London-based Acacia with a $190 billion (U.S.) tax bill, equivalent to two centuries of revenue. Acacia was already in talks with the government when Barricks Executive Chairman John Thornton stepped in to handle the negotiations himself. From that point on, Acacia was excluded from discussions, Geleta said, a fact that undermined Acacias status in the country. Read more: Barrick could force resolution to Acacias troubles, CEO says Barricks cost of doing business could shoot up with Acacia deal Barrick Gold reports first-quarter profit down from year ago, revenue up Under a framework agreement struck by Thornton, Acacia would pay $300 million to the government to settle tax claims and agree to split the returns from operations with the country going forward. In February, Bristow, said progress had been made to formalize that deal, sending the stock soaring. But on Wednesday, Bristow said talks had been complex. Acacia says it has yet to receive a proposal from Barrick which its board would have to approve and is pointing the finger back at the Toronto-based miner, saying its involvement muddied the waters. Barricks intervention put both Acacia and Barrick into a difficult position and added a level of complexity that was unhelpful to an expedient resolution of the dispute, Geleta said. These are the facts and one cannot deny this. We did not ask to be excluded from the talks but weve had to live with that and carry on focusing on what we can control. Read more about: The Canadian government is monitoring whether tougher mortgage rules are having the desired effect but doesnt favour allowing longer mortgage terms, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said. Trudeau, speaking to an industry group Thursday, was asked about raising the maximum amortization of a mortgage to 30 years, from 25 years, for first-time buyers. The prime minister said he opted instead to introduce a program that sees the government take a stake in some home purchases, as well as increasing the funds a buyer can take from retirement savings. Were looking at things that are not going to disrupt the market in unexpected ways, Trudeau said at the Canadian Home Builders Association conference in Niagara Falls. Were listening to everyone about their concerns and we are going to keep watching that stress test and make sure that it is having the desired effect, but we are seeing fewer and fewer people take on those overreaching debt-loads, particularly in the higher sectors of the market. Canadas housing market has been a preoccupation of policy-makers for years grappling with a surge in prices in Vancouver and Toronto, and fears that a bubble could develop. Officials have tightened mortgage eligibility rules and imposed other measures to curb runaway growth. Bank of Canada Governor Stephen Poloz said this week hes confident the sector will return to growth. Trudeau said his government tried to take measures that would stabilize Vancouver and Toronto but not have an overly negative impact elsewhere around the country. The tougher stress test for mortgage eligibility was about taking some of the froth out of those markets but also ensuring that people werent stretching themselves further than was wise, particularly given the fact that we can see interest rates rising in the future, and recognizing Canadians carry a high level of personal indebtedness that we need to respond to. He acknowledged the industrys call for 30-year mortgages, but said yes, it can lower your mortgage payments on a monthly level but actually, overall, increases the amount that youre going to be paying out in interest over time. Which is why, when we looked at all the different measures we had, we really, really liked the shared equity program. Read more about: CALGARYHundreds of pro-pipeline protesters rallied outside a Calgary office tower during a clean energy announcement by federal Natural Resources Minister Amarjeet Sohi. The protest by the group Canada Action attracted about 300 people who chanted build that pipe and carried signs that called on the federal government to kill Bill C-69. The legislation would repeal the Canadian Environmental Assessment Act and retire the National Energy Board. It would leave the Impact Assessment Agency of Canada and the Canadian Energy Regulator responsible for reviewing the environmental, health, social and economic impacts of designated projects. Critics say it would make it next to impossible to get any energy projects approved in the future. Sohi told reporters the government is working toward getting the Trans Mountain pipeline expansion built and that Albertans need to be patient. He rejected the idea of speaking with the protesters to tell them in person. Read more: Why a 71-year-old grandfather climbed tree in B.C. to protest Trans Mountain pipeline No guarantee of federal decision on Trans Mountain pipeline before election, says Sohi Liberals extend deadline for Trans Mountain pipeline decision to June 18 You know Id rather focus on the area of solving problems and thats exactly what I have been focused on since Day 1 with full respect of peoples ability to demonstrate and share their views and make their point, Sohi said. Canada Action founder Cody Battershill said those suffering in the oil and gas sector are sick of delays. Were always hoping to hear from the minister and anyone about what they want to do and what theyre doing for the energy sector but we havent seen action the way that we need and we know theres a lot of layoffs and a lot of people not working, he said. The consultation period for the Trans Mountain pipeline project is to end June 18. Read more about: BURNABY, B.C. AND SPRUCE GROVE, ALTA.From their garage-top deck, Ronnie Scott and Marie McMullen can see rolling coastal mountains, the calm, blue ribbon of the Burrard Inlet and a blooming Pacific dogwood, bearing B.C.s provincial flower. Soon enough, it seems, they will also be able to see 245-metre Aframax-class tankers filling up on Alberta crude and refined oil. For 11 years, the pair has lived about 300 metres away from the Westridge Marine Terminal, the terminus of the Trans Mountain pipeline in B.C. The pipeline is set to double in size, tripling the volume of energy products travelling to Burnaby for shipment to markets like China and the U.S. Scott and McMullen are environmentalists, driven by the natural beauty of their home and deep concerns about natural disasters exacerbated by climate change. We have a little property on the Skeena River, and the (decline in) salmon runs, thats all you hear about, said Scott. Theres also the floods. Theyre all indicators of whats happening to the environment. But theyre not anti-pipeline. They think as about half the province does, according to a 2018 Angus Reid poll that the Trans Mountain pipeline should be twinned while the world transitions to a green economy. Read more: Heres what would happen if Alberta really does turn off the taps on B.C. Trans Mountain oil tanks could pose deadly quake risk, say engineer and geoscientist Albertas Jason Kenney meets his prime campaign opponent: Justin Trudeau Of course, that will only happen if the spat between premiers Jason Kenney and John Horgan is ever resolved. Its like Yosemite Sam and Bugs Bunny, Scott said. Thats not the way it should be. B.C.s Horgan says the new pipeline and increased tanker traffic in the inlet poses a huge risk. His government has gone to court to see whether it can regulate the flow of energy products passing into the province. There could be catastrophic consequences of a diluted bitumen spill in B.C., Horgan said, speaking to reporters last year. Were trying to make sure were doing everything that we humanly can to protect the interests of British Columbians. But without the extra pipeline capacity, Kenney says, Albertas economy wont recover from the oil-price collapse. Hes threatened to turn off the taps to B.C., restricting energy exports, if Horgans government doesnt stop obstructing the project. Our first choice would be real progress with B.C. on TMX and other issues vital to our countrys economic prosperity, but we will not hesitate to use all of our powers, Kenney tweeted on May 1. Scott and McMullen arent impressed by the rhetoric. In their opinion, the premiers theatrics do more to pit British Columbians and Albertans against one another than advance either provinces goals. Unfortunately, weve got these two people beaking at each other, and thats causing the rest to beak, McMullen said. I think they have a lot to take blame for. Where politicians see only a vast divide, with jobs and the economy on one side of the Rockies and environmental protection on the other, ordinary Albertans and British Columbians see plenty of bridges and tunnels. What we can do as people is talk individually, said McMullen, who is originally from Edmonton. But our premiers are saying, Us and them. While Scott and McMullen say these narratives Lotus Land versus the oilpatch, Cowtown versus Vansterdam dont define them, they arent pulled from thin air. The duelling premiers are participating in a long history of cultural conflict. David Finch, a Calgary-based historian and author of Pumped: Everyones Guide to the Oil Patch, argued the conflict really does revolve around fossil fuels. What Alberta has done is become addicted to oil, said Finch, noting that oil has been the main driver of the Alberta economy ever since it was discovered in the Turner Valley in 1914. Its based its provincial treasury on the fact that two out of every three years we have more money than we know what to do with. Weve become a spoiled province. Between 1960 and 1973, John Diefenbakers National Oil Policy forced all the provinces west of Ottawa Valley to buy Western Canadian oil, despite the fact it was about twice as expensive as international oil. Alberta thinks that if other people just knew us and understood us and loved us, then everything would go well. But actually, weve been arrogant sons of b---hes for about 75 years, said Finch. Mary Janigan, the author of Let the Eastern Bastards Freeze in the Dark: The West Versus the Rest Since Confederation, sees the situation quite differently. She argues that B.C. has always stymied Albertas control of its own resources, dating back to the countrys early days. When Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick and Nova Scotia joined together to create Canada in 1867, they retained control over their own resource revenues. British Columbia enjoyed the same right when it joined in 1871. But when the Prairie provinces came into the fold, Prime Minister Sir Wilfrid Laurier refused to grant that same autonomy, Janigan said. In 1907, B.C. premier Richard McBride demanded greater subsidies from the federal government, arguing his provinces needs were much greater than the Prairies and that they faced bigger challenges with building roads and infrastructure due to the mountainous landscape. Laurier agreed to transfer additional funds for 10 years. It deepened that sense of discontent. You can see it today: British Columbia has gotten into the habit of using its geographic position to extract concessions from Ottawa and Alberta, Janigan said. But even though the us-versus-them narrative has history, it gets complicated for the many thousands of people who dont fit neatly into us or them. Ryan Gabert is a general manager at a construction company that works for major oil-and-gas firms in Sherwood Park, a hamlet east of Edmonton built to accommodate oil and gas workers. He loves vacationing in B.C. and says many of his coworkers come from there. Theres a lot of people in this area who have moved from B.C. and are making the money and are excited to go back to B.C. one day, Gabert said, standing in an area with lots full of construction materials and car dealerships packed with big trucks. While his colleagues know its important to protect the provinces coastline, they are also grateful to an industry that has given them a good livelihood. You have conversations with them. Theyre conflicted, for sure, he said. The starting point for the Trans Mountain pipeline, Sherwood Park and surrounding Strathcona County are ground zero for the most recent conflict. The area is sometimes referred to as Albertas industrial heartland and is home to refineries, upgrading facilities and petrochemical companies. Gabert says hes definitely noticed the effects of the downturn on the community: hourly wages, profit margins and construction contracts are all down from the heydays of the oil boom. For sure, the general trend seems to be less, he said. On job sites, he hears people blame various levels of government for Albertas energy woes. Former Alberta premier Rachel Notley frequently served as a lightning rod for workers grievances. I remember very specifically everyone blaming her. And then lately around here, the pipeline talk, its Trudeau and little bit of the environmental activists, he said. But Gabert doesnt blame politicians in either Alberta or B.C. for the oil sump; rather, he points the finger at OPEC producers flooding the global market with cheap oil. For him, the path to a harmonious relationship between Alberta and B.C. doesnt involve prioritizing the environment or the energy industry but working to ensure the two can coexist sustainably. He said environmental concerns are top of mind for companies hes worked with. The length new projects are going, even to protect the soil if anything falls on the ground, its picked up and cleaned, Gabert said. Its such a fragile time. Correction - May 9, 2019: This article was edited from a previous version that mistakenly said Diefenbakers National Oil Policy forced all the provinces west of Ontario to buy Western Canadian oil, despite the fact it was about twice as expensive as international oil. Read more about: TAGISH, YUKONA propane tank explosion in a Yukon community just north of the British Columbia boundary has destroyed two homes and spread into the nearby forest. A social media post by the Carcross Tagish First Nation says a total of two propane tanks exploded Tuesday on a property in Tagish, burning the surrounding woods. Wildland Fire Management says the flames grew to five hectares in size but are now under control and no other structures are threatened, although crews remain at the scene checking for hot spots. The First Nation says two homes were lost, but no one was hurt. The fire danger rating for the Tagish area is low, but it was reportedly quite windy when the blaze broke out. Volunteer firefighters aided crews from Wildland Fire and the First Nation, while ATCO Electric workers disconnected the power. Read more about: Dear Readers, There are about 2 million post-secondary students attending schools across Canada. Starting today, those students can become Star digital subscribers for free ahead of Octobers federal election. We are calling this the Vote2019 Offer, which basically means we want Canadas newest group of eligible voters to be informed since they will have a say in how we shape our country on election day. Why are we doing this? While accuracy, fairness and quality journalism have long been critical to our newsrooms, guiding those ideals are several principles we hold dear. Among those principles are community and civic engagement, and the necessary role of government. Any current post-secondary student wishing to access this program need only fill out this form. They will need their school email account to register. The Star will also extend the offer to faculty during this period, which will end Oct. 31. Those who register will have access to the wealth of credible, award-winning journalism our regular readers have long come to know. Please sign up today, or let your kids or grandkids know about the offer. MIAMIEven as his son was to be sentenced to 17 years in prison for orchestrating a real estate scam that defrauded investors of $34 million (U.S.), Joseph Menaged told a judge he remained a proud father. Scott is a son that Im very proud of, he said during the 2017 sentencing of his son, Yomtov Scott Menaged. As a matter of fact, I had a lot of fathers that would envy me of having a son like Scott. But prosecutors say the relationship between Scott Menaged, a real-estate investor and former Property Wars reality TV star, and his father wasnt solely built on warm father-son bonding but, critically, on the millions of dollars the son wired to his dad in the years leading up to his conviction. Now Joseph Menaged faces charges of defrauding banks into financing his purchase of multimillion-dollar properties in Miami Beach and New York City. Menaged, a 65-year-old resident of Miami Beach, and his New York accountant were indicted in April on charges of bank fraud, transactional money laundering, conspiracy to commit bank fraud and a forfeiture allegation after prosecutors said they falsified tax forms and business records to explain the millions of dollars transferred to Menaged from his son and to create the appearance that Menaged earned a legitimate income. Between 2011 and 2017, Scott Menaged transferred nearly $11.5 million to Joseph Menaged via checks and electronic transfers, using the bank accounts of his real estate companies to wire a chunk of his fortune to his father. Scott Menaged, who pleaded guilty in 2017 to conspiracy to commit bank fraud, aggravated identity theft and money-laundering conspiracy, admitted to submitting false credit applications using the identities of dead people and embezzling millions of dollars from a lending firm as part of a real-estate scam. Between 2013 and 2016, Scott Menaged obtained about 2,712 mortgage loans totalling nearly $734.5 million. Of those, only 96 involved actual property transactions. The remaining loans represented phantom real estate purchases involving straw buyers. He was ordered to pay the various victims $33.5 million in restitution. Seemingly in an attempt to legitimize the money his son gave to him, Menaged set his sights on high-priced real estate in Miami Beach, according to an Internal Revenue Service official. He secured more than $6.5 million in mortgage loans from Bank United and Morgan Stanley. And in 2015, he purchased a $3.2-million apartment unit in New York City and two units at 3315 Collins Avenue in Miami Beach valued at $2.6 million and $5 million. Prosecutors do not allege mortgage fraud in the indictment, stating that Menaged had been approved for the loans and began paying monthly mortgage payments to the banks in 2015. But a grand jury concluded that Menaged and his accountant, Stephen Brown, conspired to commit bank fraud by creating and backdating fraudulent documents to explain the $11.5 million transferred to Menaged from his son. Those documents included fabricated tax forms to create the appearance that Menaged earned income, false business records to substantiate deposits into Menageds bank accounts and false letters of explanation in response to financial institutions inquiries, according to the indictment. Defendant Menaged is charged, along with his New York based Accountant, for defrauding financial institutions into financing multiple luxury real estate purchases by lying and manipulating records to paint a fictitious picture of where and how Defendant Menaged was getting money, wrote Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Arizona Monica Edelstein in a court filing this week. Menaged is in federal custody in Miami but faces removal to Arizona. Prosecutors successfully argued that Menaged, who holds U.S. and Israeli citizenship, posed a risk of fleeing the country due to the lengthy prison sentence he faces if convicted, his family ties outside the U.S. and the strength of the evidence against him. A U.S. magistrate judge ordered him detained pending trial, writing that Menaged appeared to have the financial resources to flee the U.S. and that his sole source of income is strongly tied to the criminal conduct alleged in the indictment. In a statement to the Miami Herald, Menaged attorney Richard Baron said his client vigorously denies that he was engaged in any wrongdoing whatsoever and looks forward to clearing his name in a court of law. ROMEPope Francis on Thursday issued the first law obligating officials in the Roman Catholic Church worldwide to report cases of clergy sexual abuse and attempts to cover it up to their superiors. The decree was Francis long-anticipated concrete response to address a crisis that has devastated the church and clouded his legacy. Vatican officials said the pope was trying to enshrine accountability for bishops into church law. Until now, responses to accusations of sexual abuse have differed widely from country to country, and even from diocese to diocese. In some countries where church officials have denied the existence of abuse, there have often been no procedures at all. The new law does not universally require church officials to report abuse accusations to police and prosecutors, a decision that was immediately criticized by abuse survivors and their advocates. Vatican officials have argued that a global requirement to report to civil authorities would, in some places, result in victims being ostracized or priests being persecuted. However, the new rules say that church officials should not interfere with investigations by civil authorities. Significant measures in the new law say that accusers and whistleblowers are to be protected from retribution; qualified laypeople can assist church officials in their investigations; and initial investigations of abuse cases must be completed within 90 days, speeding up the current process drastically. Francis decree gives church dioceses a year to establish offices and procedures to facilitate the reporting of abuse and to safeguard the privacy and reputation of the abused. The crimes of sexual abuse offend Our Lord, cause physical, psychological and spiritual damage to the victims and harm the community of the faithful, Francis said in the laws introduction. It is good that procedures be universally adopted to prevent and combat these crimes that betray the trust of the faithful. The law is the Vaticans most comprehensive response to a scandal that has dogged the church through more than three decades and three papacies. Scrutiny of the church has increased in the past year as some of its top prelates, including cardinals in the United States and Australia, have been publicly disgraced as abusers. As attorneys general across the United States have opened investigations into the church, many American bishops have released lists of priests accused of sexual abuse, going back decades. The law is the result of a landmark meeting in the Vatican that Francis convened with global church leaders in February, during the scandals resurgence, to educate them about a scourge that many of them had denied, played down or seemed to misunderstand. No one in leadership is above the law, said Archbishop Charles Scicluna of Malta, a leading church authority on responding to sex abuse cases. There is no immunity. With his decree, Francis has tried to settle the long-standing controversy over how to investigate bishops accused of abuse or cover-ups. The decree empowers archbishops who preside over geographic regions to handle accusations against bishops in their areas. The leaders of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops had proposed a different structure last year, in which panels including lay experts would examine accusations against bishops. But in a surprise move, the Vatican stopped the American bishops from voting on that proposal at their meeting in Baltimore last November. While some victims advocates tentatively welcomed the new law as a substantive step forward, they criticized its failure to establish clear penalties for abusers and bishops complicit in cover-ups. Prior church law introduced by Francis said that any bishop negligent in handling clerical sexual abuse could be removed from office, but victims advocates wanted to make removal a requirement. Its not nearly enough, said Anne Barrett Doyle, a co-director of BishopAccountability.org, a victims advocacy group, though she added that the law, if enforced, represented some progress. The law pertains to the sexual abuse not just of minors, but also of people considered vulnerable because they are physically or mentally disabled or because their situation leaves them feeling powerless to stop the abuse. It also applies to clergy who create, possess or use child pornography. The new policies, laid out in a document titled You Are the Light of the World, come into force on June 1 and will be re-evaluated after three years. The churchs failure to hold bishops and senior clerics accountable for covering up sexual abuse has fueled enormous frustration and backlash inside and outside the church. Victims advocates say the church can no longer be trusted to police itself, which is exactly what the new law demands. This new law leaves it up to the bishop to report it to civil authorities he does not have to, said Peter Isely, an abuse survivor and the leader of Ending Clergy Abuse, an advocacy group for survivors of clerical child abuse. Hasnt that also been the problem? How does this change anything? But the Rev. Hans Zollner, a member of the Vaticans child-protection commission, said it was important that the law doesnt rely on the good will or moral responsibility of church leaders to report abuse or protect accusers. If you have a law, you bind people automatically, he said. And there are no other considerations possible. Soon after Francis was elected in 2013, the Pope suggested that he would remedy the erosion of trust caused by the abuse scandals, but change has been slow. Instead, he has said at times that he believed bishops over victims, and pulled the plug on a new church body intended to hold bishops accountable. Many survivors of sexual abuse have said that they consider his talk empty. Their anger boiled over last year, amid grand jury reports and investigations into widespread clerical abuse in the United States, where one of the countrys top cardinals, Theodore McCarrick, was ultimately kicked out of the priesthood by Francis for his abuse. Scandals also flared up in Chile and in Australia, where Cardinal George Pell, a former close adviser of Francis and top Vatican official, was sentenced in March to six years in prison for sexual abuse. Enemies of Francis within the church who consider his inclusive approach damaging have seized on the abuse crisis as a cudgel, at one point demanding his resignation for covering up the actions of McCarrick and other abusive clerics. That accusation has not been proved. Supporters of Francis, including his chief experts on tackling sexual abuse, said that unless the pope had cooperation from the bishops, the law risked going unheeded, eroding his authority and leaving the scourge of abuse unaddressed. Cardinal Daniel DiNardo, the president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, praised the new law for empowering bishops conferences to impose tougher measures. He called the law a blessing that will empower the church everywhere to bring predators to justice, no matter what rank they hold in the church. The law allows archbishops to include experts in the field to aid in investigations. In certain cases, a church leader can delegate an investigation to a lay person. Any prelate who feels that there is a conflict of interest must recuse himself and refer the investigation to the relevant Vatican department. CALGARY, Alberta, May 09, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- NXT Energy Solutions Inc. (NXT or the "Company") (TSX:SFD; OTC QB:NSFDF) announces it will release its first quarter 2019 financial and operating results for the quarter ended March 31, 2019, on Wednesday, May 15, 2019 after market close. A conference call to discuss the first quarter 2019 results will be held on Thursday May 16, 2019 at 4:30 p.m. Eastern Time (2:30 p.m. Mountain Time). In addition to the first quarter results, the Company will provide an update on its Nigerian SFD survey. Details of the conference call are as follows: Date: Thursday, May 16, 2019 Time: 4:30 p.m. Eastern Time (2:30 p.m. Mountain Time) North American participants call: 1-866-454-4207 International Dial In Numbers: https://www.confsolutions.ca/ILT?oss=7P1R8009525114 Participant Pass Code 727625# NXTs first quarter 2019 financial and operating results will be filed in Canada on SEDAR at www.sedar.com and will be available in the USA on EDGAR at www.sec.gov/edgar. The financial and operating results are also available on NXTs website at www.nxtenergy.com. About NXT Energy Solutions Inc. NXT Energy Solutions Inc. is a Calgary-based technology company whose proprietary SFD survey system utilizes quantum-scale sensors to detect gravity field perturbations in an airborne survey method which can be used both onshore and offshore to remotely identify areas with exploration potential for traps and reservoirs. The SFD survey system enables our clients to focus their hydrocarbon exploration decisions concerning land commitments, data acquisition expenditures and prospect prioritization on areas with the greatest potential. SFD is environmentally friendly and unaffected by ground security issues or difficult terrain and is the registered trademark of NXT Energy Solutions Inc. NXT Energy Solutions Inc. provides its clients with an effective and reliable method to reduce time, costs, and risks related to exploration. Contact Information For investor and media inquiries please contact: NAIROBI, Kenya - A Kenyan court has jailed a British national believed to be part of an extremist cell to four years in prison for possession of bomb-making material. Delivering the sentence in a Mombasa court, chief magistrate Evans Makori said Thursday he considered that Jermaine Grant had been in prison since his arrest in 2011. The prosecution wanted Grant jailed for seven years. Grant is already serving a nine-year sentence for forging immigration documents and the four years will be added to his current sentence. Grant is believed to be part of an al-Shabab-linked cell that planned multiple attacks over Christmas in 2011, that were foiled by authorities. Authorities say members of the cell include Samantha Lewthwaite, widow of Jermaine Lindsay, one of the bombers who killed 52 people on Londons transport system on July 7, 2005. BUENOS AIRES, Argentina - An Argentine lawmaker was seriously injured and a provincial official was killed Thursday in one of the most brazen political attacks in the country since it returned to democracy in 1983. Officials say that lawmaker Hector Olivares was shot at around 7 a.m. local time near the congressional building in the countrys capital. Olivares is a representative of La Rioja province in Argentinas lower house of Congress. He is being treated at a hospital in Buenos Aires for gunshot wounds that pierced through his abdomen and affected vital organs. The Telam state news agency identified the man who was killed as Miguel Marcelo Yadon, a co-ordinator who works in the fiduciary of federal electric transportation for La Rioja. Telam says that the men, who reportedly were friends since their teenage years, were shot at least six times. Argentine President Mauricio Macri said that doctors were trying to save Olivares life and he expressed condolences to Yadons family. Were moved by this attack, Macri said in a televised address. Were praying for Hectors life...We will do everything to find out what happened and find out who is guilty of this. As Macri spoke, authorities wearing white jumpsuits collected evidence at the crime scene, where a tree had been pierced by bullets. Local media had initially reported that Yadon and Olivares had been shot from a moving vehicle, but a video of the shooting released by the security ministry showed a parked car waiting for them. As the men walk by, theyre shot at close range. Yadon collapses on the sidewalk, while an injured Olivares tries to get up and holds up his arms in a desperate cry for help. A burly man in the drivers seat then steps out of the car and paces around. Another man also steps out and walks away calmly, and when a police officer arrives on the scene, the car drives away slowly. Were going through a very sad and tough moment, especially because it confirms the presence of mafias in our country, Security Minister Patricia Bullrich said at a press conference. Yadon was killed from a car that was waiting for him....they shoot the main target, which was Yadon, they achieve murdering him, and having the opportunity to murder Olivares, they decide not to kill him. Bullrich said that authorities found the car used in the crime and that they have identified the suspects, but would not release any information until they were captured. Olivares belongs to the Radical Civic Union party of the ruling government coalition and is also part of the transportation committee in the lower house. Before he was shot, he had been discussing a bill against hooliganism in Argentine soccer, which produces some of the worlds best players but is plagued by entrenched corruption and violence. If it does turn out that the judicial investigations show there is a connection to politically motivated violence then we can definitely say that were facing a very grave institutional event, Olivares spokesman, Ulises Bencina, told The Associated Press. Attacks on politicians are unusual in Argentina, a country of about 44 million people, where the news usually centres on an ongoing economic crisis. Politicians said the attack was the first of its kind since a brutal seven-year dictatorship from 1976-1983, during which thousands were killed, including some lawmakers. ___ Associated Press journalists Paul Byrne and Mayra Pertossi contributed to this report. Mexico City lawmakers have passed a ban on plastic bags, utensils and other disposable plastic items to take effect at the end of 2020. The city of more than 9 million residents - with another 11 million in surrounding areas - is known for a vibrant street food and carry-out culture. It would give businesses more than a year to make the switch to biodegradable products. The ban on plastic bags would take effect in December 2020, followed by straws, utensils, balloons and other single-use items in January 2021. Lawmakers say the measure is necessary to move businesses toward more environmentally friendly products and reduce the amount of waste the city generates. A statement Thursday from the citys congress did not mention what penalties could be applied for noncompliance. TOKYO - Japanese technology company SoftBank has reported a 36% year-on-year increase in profit for the fiscal year through March, partly on gains from its Vision Fund. After the killing of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi, SoftBank said it would diversify sources of its funding for investments. Much of the Vision Fund money had come from Saudi Arabia. SoftBank Group Corp., whose mobile subsidiary is boosting its stake in Yahoo Japan to 45% from 12%, said Thursday that its annual profit totalled 1.4 trillion yen ($12.8 billion). The Tokyo-based company did not break down quarterly net profit figures, or offer forecasts. Chief Executive Masayoshi Son said a second Vision Fund of about the same scale as the first one, counting new investors as well as previous ones, will be announced soon. The exact amount, date and structure of the fund are still undecided. The first fund totalled about $100 billion in investments. Son told reporters it had been a success. He said he will continue to invest in artificial intelligence and other technologies that can enhance businesses like ride-sharing and medical services by anticipating demand or spotting cancer in very early stages. AI will work as an innovation for all sectors, he told reporters, saying the so-called internet revolution had revived just advertising and consumer retailing. The SoftBank Vision Fund is the top investor, with a 16% stake, in Uber Technologies, whose IPO is set for Friday. SoftBank Group, which has invested in British IoT company ARM, and U.S. wireless company Sprint, offers internet and solar electricity services, and developed Pepper, the talking companion robot. Sprints proposed merger with T Mobile is still being reviewed by U.S. regulators. SoftBank Group shares have gyrated but gradually risen, nearly doubling in value over the last five years. ___ Follow Yuri Kageyama on Twitter https://twitter.com/yurikageyama On Instagram https://www.instagram.com/yurikageyama/?hl=en COLOMBO, Sri Lanka - The Latest on the Easter Sunday bomb attacks in Sri Lanka that killed more than 250 people when suicide bombers struck three churches and three hotels (all times local): 12 a.m. The first Catholic mass has been celebrated at St. Sebastians Church in the Sri Lankan city of Negombo following the Easter Sunday suicide bombings that killed more than 100 people at the church and 250 people overall across the country. Archbishop of Colombo Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith celebrated the Mass Thursday outside the church, which is undergoing repairs. Hundreds of people including some injured in the church bombing attended the event. Ranjith told celebrants that he did not prepare a sermon but said he is sharing in your sorrows, sharing in the loneliness of your homes. Sri Lankan Catholic officials have said church-run schools that have been closed since Easter Sunday bomb attacks are expected to reopen next week, and Sunday Masses will resume this weekend if security conditions are appropriate. ___ 4 p.m. Sri Lankan Catholic officials say church-run schools that have been closed since Easter Sunday bomb attacks are expected to reopen next week, and Sunday Masses will resume this weekend if security conditions are appropriate. Archbishop of Colombo Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith said Thursday that priests have been asked to decide whether to hold services at their churches this Sunday depending on the security situation. More than 250 people were killed when suicide bombers struck three churches and three tourist hotels on Easter. The Islamic State group has claimed responsibility for the attacks, which were carried by a local radicalized Muslim group. Masses at churches were cancelled for a second week last Sunday and the reopening of schools was postponed after reports warned of possible new attacks. TOKYO - The U.S Navy said Thursday it has suspended its search for a Japanese air force F-35A stealth fighter that crashed off Japans coast last month, after the allies scrambled to locate the aircraft to protect its military secrets. The pilot is still missing, and Defence Minister Takeshi Iwaya said Japan will continue its search. The Navy said in a statement that it was withdrawing after a salvage vehicle, CURV 21, found debris from the aircraft. It crashed in the Pacific off the eastern coast of Aomori in northern Japan during a night training flight on April 9. It went missing about half an hour after taking off from Misawa air base with three other F-35As and about a minute after the pilot abruptly ordered an end to the training exercise. The Navy was unusually quick in the salvage effort amid air and maritime activity in the region by China and Russia. It dispatched the guided-missile destroyer USS Stethem and P-8A Poseidon surveillance aircraft to join a Japanese search and rescue team. From April 9 to 17, the U.S. search covered more than 5,000 square nautical miles (17,150 square kilometres) before deploying the CURV 21 remotely operated vehicle, which is capable of salvage operations at a depth of up to 20,000 feet (6,000 metres). Iwaya told the upper house Diplomatic and Defence Affairs Committee that the U.S. salvage vehicle recovered parts of a flight data recorder but the flight data were missing. A joint effort using sonar by the Japanese deep undersea vehicle Kaimei also located and recovered parts of a canopy and other equipment, he said. Iwaya said Kaimei has also withdrawn, but the surface and underwater search is continuing with the participation of Japanese Air Self-Defence Force vessels as well as a private salvage boat. We will continue our search and recovery for the pilot and the aircraft that are still missing, while doing our utmost to determine the cause, he said. Findings of the investigation could affect Japans F-35 purchase plans, though officials say there has been no change. Japan started deploying the expensive F-35s last year as part of a plan to bolster its capability to counter potential threats from North Korea and China. Under guidelines approved in December, Prime Minister Shinzo Abes government plans to buy 147 F-35s, including 105 F-35As, costing about 10 billion yen ($90 million) each. Some were assembled by Japanese defence manufacturers under licensing contracts with Lockheed Martin, a plan that has been scrapped because of higher costs. Japans government earlier hoped to make the country a regional assembly and maintenance hub for F-35s. The crashed aircraft was the first assembled in Japan by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries. The crashed jet had previous safety issues and they will be reviewed, Iwaya has said. During a test flight in September 2017, it made a precautionary landing due to a problem related to a cooling system. In August 2018, it made another unscheduled landing because of a navigation system problem. All 12 remaining F-35 jets at the Misawa base remain grounded. The U.S. Air Force has grounded some F-35A jets in the past after pilots experienced symptoms of hypoxia, or oxygen deficiency. ___ Follow Mari Yamaguchi on Twitter at https://www.twitter.com/mariyamaguchi PODGORICA, Montenegro - A Montenegro court on Thursday sentenced two Russian military intelligence operatives and 11 others to up to 15 years in prison for plotting to overthrow the Balkan countrys government and prevent it from joining NATO. The two Russians, identified as Eduard Shishmakov and Vladimir Popov, were tried in absentia and convicted of attempted terrorism and creating a criminal organization. The verdict said the group planned to take over the parliament in Montenegro on election day Oct. 16, 2016 assassinate then-Prime Minister Milo Djukanovic and install a pro-Russia, anti-NATO leadership in the Adriatic Sea nation. The U.S. Embassy in the capital of Podgorica said the verdict against the reported operatives from the GRU Russian military intelligence service and others represents a historic day for the rule of law in Montenegro. The open and transparent trial represents an important step forward for the rule of law and sends a strong message about the unacceptability of efforts to undermine democracy, the U.S. Embassy said. The U.S. and its allies have accused the GRU of involvement in a 2018 nerve agent attack on a Russian ex-spy in Britain, hacking the 2016 U.S. presidential campaign and disrupting anti-doping efforts in world sports. Russian authorities have rejected those accusations, calling them part of a Western smear campaign against Russia. Shishmakov received a 15-year prison term while Popov got 12 years. Two leading ethnic Serb opposition politicians, Andrija Mandic and Milan Knezevic, were sentenced to five years each. The other nine others convicted received verdicts ranging from 8 years in jail to suspended sentences. Montenegro joined NATO in June 2017 as the military alliances 29th member despite strong opposition from Moscow, which considers the country a historic Slavic ally and is opposed to NATOs enlargement. The Kremlin has repeatedly denied involvement in the Montenegro coup plot. Shishmakov, however, had been a deputy military attache at the Russian embassy in Warsaw and was declared persona non grata in Poland in 2014 because it believed he was involved in spying. Montenegros security services said they thwarted the coup attempt after receiving tips from Western spy organizations. The lawyers for the convicted Serbs said they will appeal, calling the verdict a political fabrication. What I heard today is a political message: the Russian Federation is guilty, the Serbian people are guilty, said lawyer Miroje Jovanovic. Thats really scandalous. The verdict said the two convicted Russians co-ordinated the attempted coup from neighbouring Serbia. They were allowed by Serbias pro-Russia authorities to leave for Moscow despite reports that they had encrypted mobile phones and other sophisticated spy equipment. The judge in Montenegro, Suzana Mugosa, said while reading the lengthy verdict that the Russians provided at least 200,000 euros ($224,500) to buy rifles and guns. She said they tried to recruit as many people as possible to come to the protest and try to change the electoral will and prevent Montenegro from joining NATO. The judge said the two ethnic Serb politicians made several trips on the eve of the election to Moscow, where they were believed to have gotten instructions from the GRU operatives. Each member of the criminal organization had a task and role that had been previously determined and the criminal organization was ready to implement violence and intimidation, she said. ___ This story corrects the length of sentences given to nine other defendants to ranging from 8 years in jail to suspended sentences. ___ Dusan Stojanovic contributed to this report from Belgrade, Serbia. TIRANA, Albania - Croatias president has criticized the EU for not taking enough of an interest in what is going on in the Balkans. Kolinda Grabar-Kitarovic, whose country is a member of the EU, bemoaned a lack of understanding of the situation in southeast Europe and also a lack of interest. Other countries in the region, such as Albania and Serbia, are trying to join the bloc but progress has been slow, largely because historical issues partly connected to the wars of the 1990s still need to be solved. Leaders of Albania, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Kosovo, Montenegro, Serbia met Thursday with Balkan EU members Croatia and Slovenia as well as invitee Poland in the Albanian capital of Tirana to discuss how to co-operate more. The EUs foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini was also present. GENEVA - North Koreas ambassador to the United Nations has defended his countrys human rights record and likened economic sanctions over its nuclear program to crimes. Ambassador Han Tae Song said in Geneva that North Koreas government made a devoted effort for the good of the people and human rights violations, in whatever form, are intolerable. North Koreas human rights record was discussed Thursday as part of a U.N.-backed process known as the Universal Period Review, which examines the rights records of all countries roughly every five years. The top U.S. envoy in Geneva alleged North Koreas rights record is deplorable and has no parallel in the modern world. U.S. Charge dAffaires Mark Cassayre said 80,000 to 120,000 people were held in North Korean political prisoner camps. ROME - A Polish-born Holocaust survivor opened a book fair in Italy on Thursday to a standing ovation, after organizers agreed to ban a publisher linked to a neo-fascist group. Halina Birenbaum, an 89-year-old poet who lives in Israel, was quoted by Italys Corriere della Sera daily as saying this is more proof for me that evil will not win. Birenbaum and the Auschwitz-Birkenau museum had threatened to boycott the 2019 Turin International Book Fair if the Altaforte publishing house, whose director is linked to the neo-fascist CasaPound party, was included. We consider our presence incompatible with that of a neo-fascist publishing house that openly spreads a revisionist culture, read a letter signed by Birenbaum and others including Piotr Cywinski, director of the state museum in Poland. The head of the publishing house, Francesco Polacchi, has defined himself as a fascist. He has praised late Italian dictator Benito Mussolini and said anti-fascism is the true evil in this country. Polacchi, who is also under investigation for promoting fascism, said he would sue. He called the ban an attack on the countys hard-line interior minister, Matteo Salvini. Altaforte is publishing a book of interviews with Salvini that was to be presented at the fair. Salvini also denounced the ban on Altaforte, saying there is a minority on the left that claims the right to decide who can make music, who can do theatre, who can publish books. Ideas are answered with other ideas, not with censorship, Salvini said. Italian President Sergio Mattarella sent a message to the fair organizer saying that the values of Auschwitz survivor and writer Primo Levi, who was born in Turin, should constitute the fundamental basis for a peaceful society and a respectful social coexistence. DENVER, May 09, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- General Cannabis Corp (OTCQX: CANN) (the Company), the comprehensive national resource to the regulated cannabis industry, today announced financial results for the quarter ended March 31, 2019. Financial Highlights The following table summarizes our results of operations: Three months ended March 31, 2019 2018 Percent (Unaudited) Change Segment Revenues Security $ 564,592 $ 551,977 2% Operations 780,101 306,014 155% Consumer Goods 29,775 84,491 (65) % Investments 14,821 -- 100% 1,389,289 942,482 47% Total costs and expenses 4,619,945 4,108,964 12% Operating loss (3,230,656 ) (3,166,482 ) 2% Other expense 1,283,039 1,299,905 (1) % Net loss $ (4,513,695 ) $ (4,466,387 ) 1% Loss per share Basic and diluted $ (0.12 ) $ (0.14 ) (11) % The following provides a condensed version of our balance sheets: March 31, 2019 (Unaudited) December 31, 2018 Percent Change Total current assets $ 7,152,984 $ 8,986,903 (20) % Long-term assets 2,154,766 1,755,322 23% Total assets $ 9,307,750 $ 10,742,225 (13) % Total liabilities $ 7,799,115 $ 6,190,888 26% Stockholders equity 1,508,635 4,551,337 (67) % Total liabilities and stockholders equity $ 9,307,750 $ 10,742,225 (13) % We have surpassed $1 million in revenue for the fourth consecutive quarter, with a 47% increase in quarterly revenue in 2019 compared to 2018, said Brian Andrews, Chief Financial Officer of General Cannabis. Our Operations segment continues a strong product sales trend, coupled with sustained revenue from consulting services. Our Security segment remains consistent and expects further growth as California and other markets mature. We anticipate future growth in our Consumer Goods segment related to our CBD retail operations, STOA Wellness, and recently signed national contracts for our apparel brand, Chiefton, continued Mr. Andrews. Michael Feinsod, Interim Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of General Cannabis, stated, As the cannabis industry continues to expand, our team is energized and focused on revenue growth and investment opportunities within legal cannabis and CBD markets. The Colorado legislature recently passed the PubCo Bill that, when signed, would allow public companies to own cultivation and dispensary licenses. We have begun a significant initiative to assess and acquire companies and/or cannabis licenses in Colorado. We believe our significant experience in cannabis cultivation and retail position us to take advantage of this new bill. Mr. Andrews added, We have recently completed several infrastructure initiatives. Most significantly, we now have a comprehensive enterprise resource planning platform, which integrates personnel utilization, e-commerce, inventory management and retail point-of-sale software. These initiatives position us for continued organic growth and expansion through acquisition. Our investment in our back office allows our entrepreneurial segment leaders to grow their businesses with confidence. Michael Feinsod continued, Our expanding breadth of services, resources and infrastructure position us for success in the rapidly evolving and highly regulated cannabis industry. We believe our focus on revenue growth and our ability to invest in the cannabis space will benefit General Cannabis in the long term. For our most recent SEC filings, visit us at www.generalcann.com . Outlook We operate in a rapidly evolving and highly regulated industry. We have been and will continue to be aggressive in executing acquisitions and other opportunities that we believe will benefit us in the long term. We plan to leverage our breadth of services and resources to deliver a comprehensive, integrated solution to companies in the cannabis industry from operational and compliance consulting to security and marketing to financing needs. Following a strategic review, we are re-focusing our resources over the balance of 2019 and into 2020: Operations Segment (Next Big Crop or NBC) Our lead initiative will be to leverage our experience in operations. We plan to expand our Operations segment (Next Big Crop or NBC) over the next year, both in new states and our home state of Colorado. NBC has the ability to expand as a service provider in each new market, depending on legal and business conditions. We are experts at navigating regulated cannabis markets and believe our experience is a competitive advantage. NBC has already made connections in new markets, such as Arkansas, Missouri and Oklahoma. Under the Colorado PubCo Bill, NBC would have the opportunity to succeed as an owner / operator. Security Segment (Iron Protection Group or IPG) IPG continues to navigate in a competitive Colorado economic environment. Our tight credit policies have led IPG to be highly selective in the Colorado market, leading to decreased revenues within Colorado. Over the balance of the year, we expect to increase our California customer base, which provides significantly more profitable economics. IPG is also actively building a security camera installation and, potentially, monitoring business. Camera monitoring is required in many jurisdictions and, given our experience with overall security plans, we believe our experience will allow us to immediately benefit our customers. Consumer Goods Segment (Chiefton and STOA Wellness) Our STOA Wellness store in New York is expected to open in May 2019 with a robust e-commerce platform soon to follow we expect the launch of our CBD business to significantly boost our Consumer Goods segment. Our strong focus on rolling out a truly integrated, and scalable, retail strategy positions STOA Wellness to take advantage of the rapid public acceptance of CBD by the American consumer since passage of the Farm Bill in December 2018. We believe our strategy of a curated collection of quality CBD products will set us apart from the mass-market and one-off strategies currently available in different markets. Along with the expansion of STOA, we will be implementing specific changes at Chiefton. We will be scaling back our small retail efforts and focusing on direct-to-consumer e-commerce sales through online marketing, coupled with pursuing nationwide business-to-business relationships. We anticipate a significant drop in Chiefton overhead by the end of the second quarter. Investments Segment We continue to have significant requests for providing debt and equity financing. During the first quarter of 2019, we entered into an loan agreement with a fully-integrated cannabis company in Puerto Rico that gives us the option to obtain partial ownership. Our multi-year experience in the cannabis industry, along with our internal and external experts, positions us with the knowledge required to evaluate and explore additional investment within the cannabis market. About General Cannabis Corp General Cannabis Corp is the comprehensive national resource for the highest quality service providers available to the regulated cannabis industry. We are a trusted partner to the cultivation, production and retail sides of the cannabis business. We do this through a combination of strong operating divisions such as security, operational consulting and products, consumer goods and marketing consulting, and capital investments and real estate. As a synergistic holding company, our divisions are able to leverage the strengths of each other, as well as a larger balance sheet, to succeed. Our website address is www.generalcann.com. Forward-looking Statements This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Such forward-looking statements include statements regarding our expected further growth in the Security segment, statements regarding anticipated future growth in our Consumer Goods segment, statements regarding our positioning for continued organic growth and expansion through acquisitions, statements regarding our positioning for success in the cannabis industry, statements regarding the benefit of our focus on revenue growth and investment in the cannabis space, statements regarding our aggressiveness in executing acquisitions and other opportunities, and statements regarding our focus over the balance of 2019 and into 2020 with respect to our Operations segment, Security Segment, Consumer Goods segment and Investments Segment. Any statements that are not statements of historical fact, such as the statements described above, should be considered forward-looking statements. Some of these statements may be identified by the use of the words may, will, believes, plans, anticipates, expects and similar expressions. General Cannabis has based these forward-looking statements on current expectations and projections about future events as of the date of this press release. These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, conditions or results and involve a number of risks and uncertainties. Actual results may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements as a result of a number of factors, including those described from time to time in General Cannabiss most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and most recent Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q under the heading Risk Factors and in subsequent filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. General Cannabis undertakes no duty to update any forward-looking statements made herein. LONDON - U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has cancelled a visit to Greenland to return to Washington amid an escalation of tensions with Iran. Pompeo had been due to wrap up a trip to Europe on Thursday with a stop in Greenland aimed at promoting the Trump administrations Arctic policies. Those policies were criticized earlier this week for not containing the words climate change when Pompeo attended an Arctic Council meeting in Finland. The State Department says that Pompeo will still order a restoration of a permanent U.S. diplomatic presence in Greenland. The Greenland stop was the second Pompeo cancelled on what was supposed to be a four-nation tour of Europe. On Tuesday, he abruptly dropped a trip to Germany to fly to Baghdad for meetings with Iraqi leaders. SIBIU, Romania - Romanias long-running political turmoil was on stark display once more Thursday, as its president criticized some of his countrys politicians for attacking European institutions and undermining its standing in the European Union. Romania, which currently holds the EUs rotating presidency, has seen its political affairs mired in a spat between its president and prime minister since 2017. The head of its governing party, who is widely seen as Romanias most powerful politician, is convicted for vote-rigging and is suing the EU over allegations he defrauded the bloc. We have politicians who unfortunately have shown Europe that we dont only have a nice face. Politicians who attack justice, attack European institutions, President Klaus Iohannis said as he arrived in the picturesque Transylvanian town of Sibiu for a meeting of the centre-right grouping in the European Parliament, the European Popular Party, ahead of an informal EU summit. And because of this, instead of (Romania) being fully accepted, discussions over the rule of law have appeared. Iohannis has blamed the internal political mess for Romanias failure to meet the standards required to join Europes visa-free Schengen area. European Commission head Jean-Claude Juncker said the country must make further efforts to fully reach European standards on rule of law. They have to make efforts to reach the virtuous European crossroads, Juncker said as he arrived for the summit. Even before the former communist country took over the EU presidency in January, many in Brussels had voiced concerns about its suitability. The role of the six-month presidency requires keeping EU business flowing, though it doesnt have the authority to undermine or block communal business. The main bone of contention recently has been a law proposed by the governing Social Democratic Party, PSD, that would essentially grant amnesty to politicians accused of corruption. That would include PSD head Liviu Dragnea, considered the countrys de facto leader and the true power behind the prime minister. Dragnea has been blocked from being prime minster himself because of a 2016 conviction for vote-rigging and is currently appealing a 2018 corruption conviction in which he received a 3 1/2 year prison sentence over the employment of two party members at a public agency. Prime Minister Viorica Dancila, who has chafed at not being invited to the EU summit, has accused western European leaders of double standards when they criticized Romania over corruption and a crackdown on anti-government protesters. Iohannis, who served as mayor of Sibiu for about 14 years, recently called a referendum for May 26, the same day as European parliamentary elections, seeking to ban the government from amending criminal law by emergency decrees, and ban those convicted of corruption-related crimes from obtaining pardons or amnesty. Some have seen the referendum as a move to boost voter turnout for the European elections and increase support for candidates opposed to the PSD. But Iohannis insists fighting corruption is his main aim. There are political forces whose leaders want to be placed above the law. Who dont like it when fundamental institutions of the state of law investigate and bring to light acts of corruption and theft of public money, be it national public money or European, he said. Juncker, speaking on Wednesday at a discussion with young people in Sibiu alongside Iohannis, said he was not happy with everything happening in the European Union. Im not happy with everything happening in Romania too. Iohannis retorted: That makes two of us. ____ Raf Casert in Sibiu, Romania contributed to this story. BRUSSELS - The Latest on the crisis surrounding Irans decision to step away from the embattled nuclear deal with world powers (all times local): 7:25 p.m. President Donald Trump says the U.S. sent an aircraft carrier group to the Persian Gulf because the Iranians were threatening, telling reporters coyly: We have information that you dont want to know about. Trump also says Thursday hed like to see the Iranians call him, but claims former Secretary of State John Kerry advised them not to. Hes accusing Kerry of violating the Logan Act, which makes it a crime for people outside the United States government to negotiate with foreign countries, and says Kerry should be prosecuted. Trumps national security adviser John Bolton said Sunday night that the U.S. was deploying the USS Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group and a bomber task force to the Middle East. Trump says the risk of a military confrontation is always present, but adds, hopefully that wont happen. ___ 7:15 p.m. German Chancellor Angela Merkel has highlighted the differences of opinion with the United States in her assessment of the Iran nuclear standoff and said a united Europe is essential in facing the crisis. Merkel said after an EU summit in Romania: Were not in favour of an escalation of the situation but rather on using further diplomatic means. She continued: We also know our limits, but the more unified Europe appears -- that was the common position here -- the greater our chances are to perhaps increase the likelihood and chances of realizing solutions through talks. Earlier, French President Emmanuel Macron said the nuclear deal had to be saved and that the accords signatories should do all they can to ensure that the Islamic Republic respects it. ___ 3:20 p.m. The parliamentary bloc of Lebanons militant Hezbollah group has blasted the United States over new sanctions it imposed on Iran, describing them as unjustified. The bloc said in a statement Thursday that the American moves against Iran show the U.S. administrations tyrannical and dictatorial trend. Hezbollah, which is backed and armed by Iran and is represented in Lebanons Cabinet and parliament has been hit by U.S. sanctions for many years. The group says that Americas unilateral sanctions do no respect international laws and Washington behaves in accordance with the law of the jungle. It said Iran has the power to defend itself. ___ 2:20 p.m. The head of Egypts port authority says the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln has passed through the Suez Canal on its way to the Persian Gulf amid an escalation with Iran. The state MENA news agency quoted Mohab Mameesh, the Suez Canal authority chief, as saying he observed the passage of the carrier through the canal on Thursday morning. MENA says the director also met the U.S. defence attache in Cairo, Gen. Ralph Groover, who had travelled to the Suez Canal area to check on the status of the U.S. warship. The White House on Sunday dispatched the aircraft carrier and B-52 bombers to the Persian Gulf. On Wednesday, Rouhani threatened Iran could start to enrich its uranium stockpile closer to weapons-grade levels in two months. ___ 12:10 p.m. French President Emmanuel Macron says the Iran nuclear deal must be saved and that the accords signatories should do all they can to ensure that the Islamic Republic respects it. Macron told reporters on Thursday that Iran must remain in this agreement and we must do everything we can to ensure that it stays in. Speaking ahead of an EU summit in Romania, Macron lauded the 2015 deal curbing Irans nuclear ambitions as a good agreement. But he said it should be completed with other pacts governing Irans missile development and its potentially destabilizing role in the Middle East. Amid heated rhetoric from Tehran and Washington in recent days, Macron urged the signatories not to get caught up in any escalation and to jointly watch over our collective security. ___ 10 a.m. The European Union is urging Iran to respect the international agreement curbing the Islamic Republics nuclear ambitions and says it aims to continue trading with the country despite U.S. sanctions. The EU and major European powers Britain, France and Germany said on Thursday that they note with great concern the statement made by Iran concerning its commitments to the nuclear deal. They said in a statement that we remain fully committed to the preservation and full implementation of the deal, endorsed by the U.N. Security Council. The Trump administration pulled America out of the deal a year ago. The EU powers say they regret the re-imposition of sanctions by the U.S. and remain determined to continue pursuing efforts to enable the continuation of legitimate trade with Iran. CARACAS, Venezuela - The arrest of a top opposition leader in Venezuela unleashed fears of a wider crackdown on Thursday, even as members of the opposition issued renewed calls for weekend protests in their campaign to oust President Nicolas Maduro. The Wednesday arrest of Edgar Zambrano, vice-president of the opposition-controlled National Assembly in Venezuela, was the latest move in a protracted, increasingly murky struggle between two camps vying for support of the military, which has seen some defections but whose loyalty to Maduro has preserved his grip on power. Maduros chief adversary, opposition leader Juan Guaido, portrayed the arrest and targeting of members of the assembly as acts of desperation by a government whose leaders dont know who to trust. The U.S.-backed opposition leader also announced new nationwide protests on Saturday, following clashes between police and protesters last week that left six people dead. They wont get us out of the streets, said Guaido, whose public appearance in Caracas reflected his belief that Maduro does not have the confidence to arrest him. Maduro has appeared to let Guaido wage a campaign against him following U.S. warnings that there would be severe repercussions if he took action against his foe. The United States says Russia-backed Maduro was elected illegitimately and that Guaido should lead Venezuelans to free elections after years of turmoil. Maduro describes Guaido as a collaborator in a U.S.-engineered coup plot. Now, the government is chipping away at the National Assembly, the key Venezuelan institution demanding Maduros resignation. Diosdado Cabello, a leading political ally of Maduro, suggested Thursday that the government is being methodical in its battle with the opposition. Were not in a rush, Cabello said. Venezuelas top court has announced investigations of Zambrano and nine other congress members for alleged roles in supporting Guaidos failed appeal for a military uprising on April 30, as others have come under increasing pressure. This is clearly fallout from the uprising last week. It amounts to a reassertion of hardliners within the Maduro government, said David Smilde, a senior fellow at the Washington Office on Latin America, a non-governmental group. He suggested that factionalism within the embattled government was on display, with Maikel Moreno, head of the Supreme Tribunal of Justice, among those who were trying to demonstrate their loyalty to the regime. Moreno had been identified by the U.S. as a conspirator in Guaidos failed scheme. Smilde also said hardliners within the intelligence service, whose former chief broke ranks with Maduro, are showing they are still on board. The U.S. and European and Latin American countries that support Venezuelas opposition condemned the arrest of Zambrano, saying his parliamentary immunity was illegally lifted. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said the arrest of Zambrano is an unacceptable and illegal act that is yet another reflection of the repression of the former Maduro regime. This assault on the National Assembly should serve as a clarion call to the region and the world that the dictatorship is not interested in constitutional solutions to the Venezuelan peoples problems, Pompeo said in a statement. Separately, Mexico also expressed concern about the arrest and the targeting of National Assembly members. The criticism was unusual because Mexico says it believes in nonintervention and has not recognized Guaido as Venezuelas rightful leader. A total of 29 National Assembly members, or 25% of parliamentarians who oppose the government, have been persecuted by the pro-Maduro supreme court, according to Guaido. Some members of the opposition-led congress have sought refuge in diplomatic missions, echoing moves made by 1970s-era dissidents scrambling for protection under the flags of other countries during the previous era of Latin American dictatorships. Richard Blanco, an opposition congressman, on Thursday told VPItv, a local media outlet, that he had gone to the Argentine embassy. Another, Mariela Magallanes, is staying at the home of the Italian ambassador. On Thursday afternoon, legislator Americo De Grazia indicated on Twitter that Italian diplomats were also hosting him. Opposition activist Leopoldo Lopez entered the home of the Spanish ambassador after he joined Guaido in the failed attempt to topple Maduro. Lopez was detained for anti-government protests in 2014 and had been under house arrest for two years before he was freed. On Thursday, Miguel Rodriguez Torres, a former spy chief who became a government critic, was also transferred by military police to a maximum-security cell at a Caracas military base, his political movement said. Rodriguez Torres was arrested a year ago. BEIRUT - The U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces took credit for defeating the Islamic State group in its last stronghold in eastern Syria, celebrating the victory in front of throngs of journalists at a ceremony in March following a bloody four-year war. But the Kurdish-led force now faces protests by local Arab tribesmen in Deir el-Zour province demanding better services, jobs and a bigger role in decision-making in the predominantly Arab, oil-rich and fertile region. Though limited to about a dozen villages for now, the demonstrations are a growing challenge to the U.S. and its local partners at a time when President Donald Trump plans to reduce Americas military presence in Syria. On Thursday, the Kurdish-led fighters opened fire at protesters in the village of Shheil, killing one person the first fatality since the protests began last month, according to Syrian state TV and the DeirEzzor24 activist collective, which monitors developments in the province. The protest came after an overnight raid in the village by the U.S.-led coalition and the Kurdish force killed six people, according to DeirEzzor24 and the Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a war monitoring group. The Observatory said two people, one of them an IS member, were arrested. An SDF official, who spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to speak to the media, said the protesters so far are a small percentage of Deir el-Zour residents. But the demonstration benefit the Syrian government, its Iranian backers and Turkey, and undermine our victory against Daesh, he said, using an Arabic acronym for IS. Several rounds of talks between the SDF and local officials have so far failed to make progress, leading to concerns the protests could transform into an all-out uprising against the predominantly Kurdish force, founded in 2015 to fight IS and armed by the U.S. IS sleeper cells have intensified attacks in recent weeks. Syrian President Bashar Assads troops, based along the west bank of the Euphrates River that cuts through Deir el-Zour, have vowed to reassert control over Kurdish-held areas in northern Syria. And Turkey, which considers the force to be a terrorist organization, has also set its sights on the region. The SDF controls nearly a third of Syria, but unlike the provinces of Raqqa and Hassakeh in the north that have large Kurdish populations, Deir el-Zour in the east is almost purely Arab, leading to ethnic tensions between the local population and the Kurdish force. Two years after entering the province in their push against IS, the SDF appears to have failed to win the hearts and minds in the region, which suffers from a lack of services, rising crime, fuel shortages and anger over what they see as growing Kurdish influence. Although the SDF is a mixed force consisting of Kurds, Arabs and Christian fighters, its backbone is the Kurdish Peoples Protection Units, or YPG. Some SDF officials see whats happening in eastern Syria as riots backed by Assads government with the aim of hurting the SDF and its American backers. Until Thursdays fatal shooting, the over two weeks of protests by the residents in more than a dozen towns and villages in Deir el-Zour have been mostly peaceful as the protesters closed major roads and burned tires to prevent SDF tanker trucks from taking crude to Kurdish-held areas in the countrys north. Areas liberated from IS suffer fuel shortages and IS sleeper cells are launching a guerrilla campaign to avenge their defeat two months ago when the SDF captured the village of Baghouz, marking the end of the extremists self-declared caliphate. Some of the protesters believe that Kurdish fighters sell oil to Assads loyalists amid severe fuel shortages in government-held parts of the country, aggravated by U.S. sanctions on Syria and its main backer, Iran. Since SDF began capturing parts of Deir el-Zour in 2017, residents have expressed anger at what they say has been forced recruitment of Arab residents into the SDF, as well as the detention of many on suspicion of links to IS. People are fed up with the SDF, said Omar Abu Laila, a Europe-based activist from Deir el-Zour who runs a group that monitors developments in the province. They are robbing the wealth of the people in the region. The protests took a turn for the worse on April 24, when according to Deir el-Zour activists, the U.S.-led coalition and SDF fighters stormed a house in the village of Daman and killed six people, including two women and a child. They said the raid targeted a man called Farhan al-Sarhan, whom the SDF says is linked to IS, a charge that activists deny. A day later, protests spread quickly to nearby villages and towns including Tayyaneh, Haseen, Mheimda, Husan, Shannan and Shheil. No to Kurdish occupation, read one banner carried by protesters, according to images posted on social media. The pace of rehabilitation, economic development and provision of essential services has not been sufficient to meet the basic needs of the population, Bassam Barabandi, a former Syrian diplomat now based in Washington, said of the protests. As a result, people are feeling very hopeless about their current situation and the future. Theydo not see the regime as an acceptable alternative, and they are looking for the U.S. to act. Several meetings have been held over the past weeks between SDF officials and Arab dignitaries from Deir el-Zour to try to ease the tension without success, according to Barabandi and Observatory. An Arab man from Deir el-Zour who took part in the talks, said that the Kurds have been refusing to make any concessions. He spoke on condition of anonymity out of concern for his safety. He said the SDF is taking away most of the oil it pumps in Deir el-Zour about 60,000 barrels a day and leaves hardly anything behind. Arab officials demanded, among other things, the release of SDF-held detainees, stopping the flow of oil from the province, giving Deir el-Zour fighters within the SDF a bigger role, ending compulsory conscription into the SDF and improving electricity and fuel services. Rami Abdurrahman, who heads the Observatory, said chaos in eastern Syria is not a good omen for the SDF. The regime could be the biggest winner from what is happening, he said. AUSTIN, TEXASSandra Bland seemed calm and rational if annoyed during a 2015 traffic stop that led to her confrontation with a state trooper. Three days later, she was dead, having hanged herself in her jail cell, authorities said. What happened? A newly released video of the roadside encounter shot on Blands own cellphone has prompted calls from Blands family, from a lawmaker in Texas, and from two Texas politicians running in the 2020 presidential race Beto ORourke and Julian Castro for renewed investigations into the case. Immediately reopen the investigation into Sandra Blands arrest and death, ORourke, a former Democratic congressman from El Paso, said on Twitter, calling for full accountability and justice. The video, which state and county officials insist was given to the Bland family nearly two years ago, was publicly broadcast for the first time this week. It has resurfaced a number of questions that have swirled around the case of a 28-year-old Black woman who was pulled over for failing to signal a lane change, shortly before she was to start a new job at Prairie View A&M University in Texas. The biggest one is whether the state trooper, Brian Encinia, who is white, should have been held legally accountable for his description of the roadside encounter with Bland. Read more: What you need to know about the Sandra Bland video My safety was in jeopardy at more than one time, Encinia told investigators for the Department of Public Safetys Office of Inspector General not long after Blands death. A grand jury based on what was known at the time, including video of the encounter from the officers dash cam indicted Encinia for perjury. But the case was dropped in exchange for a promise from the trooper, who was fired, that he would never again work in law enforcement. The new cellphone footage prompted ORourke to say Tuesday that the close-up look at the encounter that the video provides leads me to call for a new trial. We now have new evidence, and I hope with that trial, we finally get justice, ORourke said. But Shawn McDonald, a Houston lawyer who was part of the team of special prosecutors who handled the case against Encinia, said he was unsure whether the government could legally reopen the case against the former trooper. In any case, he said, the cellphone video does not represent new evidence, since it was known to investigators and was disclosed to the family in response to the wrongful-death lawsuit they filed in the case. The suit was settled in 2016 for $1.9 million (U.S.). A number of questions were also raised after Blands death about what happened at the jail, and why a 28-year-old woman on her way to start a new job would take her own life. Most of those questions have already been put to rest: Both her mental health background and the physical evidence in the autopsy report pointed to suicide. The confrontation at the traffic stop led to Bland being arrested on a charge of assaulting a public servant. She was booked on July 10, 2015, into the Waller County jail in Hempstead, a town of about 6,000 in southeast Texas, and she was placed in a housing area for women. Three days later, on July 13, a guard making the rounds found her hanging in her 15-by-20-foot cell in what officials described as a semi-standing position, with a plastic trash-can liner around her neck and affixed to a U-shaped metal hook overhead. She was pronounced dead shortly after 9 a.m. The results of the autopsy, announced by officials on July 23, indicated that her injuries were consistent with suicide, not homicide. The autopsy found that the condition of Blands head, neck and hands lacked any signs of a violent struggle. Markings around her neck were also consistent with suicide, the medical examiners said. Waller County officials later expressed regret that Bland had not been placed on suicide watch, particularly in light of her disclosure on a jail screening form that she had once tried to kill herself with pills after losing a baby. She also reported at the time she entered the jail that she had battled depression and was feeling depressed at the time. Have you ever attempted suicide? the form asked. Yes, Bland wrote. In 2015, lost baby, by taking pills. A second questionnaire, filled out hours later, said Bland had never been depressed, or was not feeling depressed at that moment, though it did note her earlier suicide attempt. Elton Mathis, the Waller County district attorney, said the discrepancy was a result of jail officials having asked Bland about her mindset at two different times, and her giving different answers. I do wish she would have been on a suicide watch, Mathis said in 2015. We all do. In a series of investigations and legislative hearings that unfolded after Blands death, jail officials and others gave varying accounts of Blands demeanour during her time in jail. Dormic Smith, one of the jailers, told interviewers from the Texas Rangers that Bland told him that she had changed her life and drove from Chicago, Illinois, for a job. The jailer said he never once thought she was suicidal, but she appeared to be in a state of disbelief about what was happening to her, according to the Rangers report. Other jail officials who looked in on Bland in her jail cell said she had seemed OK, but that she was clearly upset after being booked and placed in a holding cell. Bland was sitting in the holding cell with her face in her hands and she was crying, Elsa Magnus, another jail employee, told investigators. Bland said repeatedly that she did not do anything wrong, Magnus told Rangers. Another jailer, Randy Tomczak, said he offered Bland breakfast, but she declined to take the food tray. He then offered to leave the tray aside in case she changed her mind, he said, and she responded, OK, thank you. During a security check at the end of his shift, Tomczak said he stepped into her cell and told her that he would probably see her tonight, and she replied OK, according to the investigative report. One thing Bland seemed to be worried about, according to those who were at the jail, was getting out, and she had contacted her family for help. She had hoped to raise the $500 cash deposit needed to post her $5,000 bail, but had not managed to do so, the Waller County sheriff, R. Glenn Smith, told the New York Times in 2015. At one point, according to the Rangers report, Bland asked if anyone had telephoned for her. She was told no. HOUSTON - The Latest on heavy rain reported across much of Texas (all times local): 7:30 p.m. The body of a man has been recovered from Lady Bird Lake in downtown Austin about a half-hour after a man was reported to have been swept away from a flooded street. Austin-Travis County Emergency Medical Services reported it was called shortly before 1 p.m. Wednesday on a water rescue on flood-swollen Shoal Creek on the western edge of downtown Austin. A rescue helicopter was summoned to aid in the search for the missing person. Austin police reported they may have spotted the victim floating eight blocks downstream. A short time later, about 1:30 p.m., the rescue helicopter crew reported spotting a motionless body in the lake about a mile downstream from the creek outlet. About 1 1/2 inches of rain was reported to have fallen on the lake within two hours around midday Wednesday. ___ 6 p.m. Heavy rain reported across much of northern, western and central Texas caused widespread road closings and scattered reports of high-water rescues. In the West Texas town of Merkel, about 15 miles (25 kilometres) west of Abilene, Police Chief Phillip Conklin told KTXS-TV of Abilene that seven people were rescued Wednesday from floodwaters. Three were rescued from an apartment complex, two from flood-stranded vehicles and a couple from their home. Flash floodwaters washed out a Texas Pacifico Transportation railroad track near Mertzon, about 25 miles (40 kilometres) southwest of San Angelo in West Texas. Thunderstorms in the Panhandle prompted scattered reports to the National Weather Services of funnel clouds, but no tornadoes were reported. ___ 10:01 a.m. Dozens of students in the Houston area had to spend the night at school after flooded roads prevented buses from leaving and parents from reaching their children. Most of the approximately 1,500 students at an elementary school in Cleveland, northeast of Houston, were able to leave by the end of the day after being stranded for a time Tuesday as up to 10 inches (254 millimeters) of rain swamped the region. However, the school district says about 60 students stayed overnight. The downpour brought flooding to schools and homes as emergency personnel worked into the night to evacuate people. The National Weather Service issued flash flood warnings. It warned that storms could continue to batter the states Gulf Coast with rain later into the week. PHOENIX - The Latest on a high school senior arrested on immigration charges weeks before graduation. (all times local): Federal officials have confirmed that a high school senior set to graduate in weeks has been freed from immigration lockup, but say his future in the U.S. remains uncertain. ICE spokeswoman Yasmeen Pitts OKeefe said Wednesday that 18-year-old Thomas Torres has been freed from custody but an immigration judge will decide whether he has legal basis to remain the country. It is unclear if Torres will graduate from a Tucson high school on May 22 as scheduled. He has lived in the US since being brought here as a small boy. Torres detention last week prompted about 120 classmates to protest outside the Pima County Sheriffs Office. Sheriffs deputies contacted the Border Patrol on Thursday after Torres admitted during a traffic stop that he was in the U.S. illegally. ___ 12:30 p.m. The family a Tucson high school football player has lived with for years says he is free after being released from immigration detention. Thomas Torres has stayed with Lorena Rodriguezs family during his years at Desert View High School. Rodriguez is announcing the 18-year-olds release on her Facebook page, saying OPERATION THOMAS COMPLETE! But the circumstances of Torres Tuesday release are unclear, including whether hell graduate May 22 as scheduled. Torres detention last week prompted about 120 classmates to protest outside the Pima County Sheriffs Office. Sheriffs deputies contacted the Border Patrol on Thursday after Torres admitted during a traffic stop that he was in the U.S. illegally. The Border Patrol initially held Torres, but has since transferred him to ICE. An ICE spokeswoman says shes researching his status. WASHINGTON - The Latest on President Donald Trumps trip to the Florida Panhandle (all times local): 9 p.m. President Donald Trump is telling supporters at his campaign rally in Florida not to worry about the trade talks the U.S. will be holding with China this week. A Chinese delegation is scheduled to meet Thursday with U.S. trade officials in Washington. Ahead of the talks, the U.S. government has filed plans to raise tariffs on $200 billion worth of Chinese imports from 10% to 25% Friday. The tariffs war has rattled investors this week. Trump said Wednesday of the talks: Whatever happens, dont worry about it. It will all work out. You know why? It always does. The Trump administration decided to increase tariffs after accusing China of reneging on commitments it made in earlier talks. ___ 8:45 p.m. President Donald Trump is mocking potential Democratic rivals for the presidency, saying, Weve got some real beauties and Lets just pick somebody, please, and lets start this thing. Trump is adding South Bend, Indiana, Mayor Pete Buttigieg (BOO-tuh-juhj) to the mix of potential rivals that have his attention. He said mockingly Wednesday at a rally in Florida that he would like to see the 37-year-old Buttigieg representing the U.S. against President Xi Jinping of China in trade talks. He said, Representing us against Xi in China. That will be great. Trump also renewed his focus on labeling former Vice-President Joe Biden and Sen. Bernie Sanders of Vermont. He says, We have a choice between Sleepy Joe and Crazy Bernie, and Ill take any of them. ___ 8:20 p.m. President Donald Trump is telling supporters that Florida will get $448 million in disaster recovery funds to help it recover from Hurricane Michael last year. At a rally Wednesday in the Florida Panhandle, Trump called for Democrats in Congress to work with the administration on other relief funding. He says the newest funds will come through the Department of Housing and Urban Development. Trumps opposition to more hurricane aid for Puerto Rico has sparked a standoff with congressional Democrats that is blocking assistance to the island and elsewhere, including the Florida Panhandle. Trump says, Youre getting your money one way or another, and were not going to let anybody hold it up. ___ 4:35 p.m. President Donald Trump is set to view recovery efforts in the Florida Panhandle following last years Hurricane Michael, as well as lingering damage from the devastating Category 5 storm. Trump on Wednesday was headed to Tyndall Air Force Base, which itself was severely affected by the hurricane, ahead of a reelection rally in nearby Panama City Beach. The area has received about $1.1 billion in federal disaster aid through mid-April, but disagreements in Washington have left many still struggling to recover from the storm. The campaign rally comes as Trump and congressional Democrats are locked in a bitter fight over constitutional powers related to special counsel Robert Muellers report and probes into the presidents tax returns. SPRINGFIELD, Mass. - Two Massachusetts police officers have been acquitted of charges that they raped the same woman. Springfield officers Joshua Figueroa and Derrick Gentry-Mitchell were found not guilty by a judge Thursday in a jury-waived trial in Hampden Superior Court. The woman said she had been raped by the men in Gentry-Mitchells home in March 2017. Both officers testified in their own defence to say the encounters had been consensual. Figueroa said the woman initiated contact and he had sex with her in the basement. Gentry-Mitchell testified he had sex with the woman in his room after Figueroa left. Figueroas attorney said his client sent the woman a text saying, Lets do it again, and the woman replied, Yes, definitely. Prosecutors said the woman was too drunk to consent. NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO UNITED STATES NEWS WIRE SERVICES OR DISSEMINATION IN UNITED STATES CALGARY, Alberta , May 09, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Pieridae Energy Limited (Pieridae or the Corporation) (TSXV: PEA) In light of the recent share price decline, Pieridae would like to confirm that there have been no material adverse changes in its business. As Pieridaes management does not believe the current trading price of the Corporations shares properly reflects the inherent value of the Corporations investments, management reiterates that key project milestones achieved for its flagship Goldboro LNG Project are still firmly in place. Those milestones are: All major regulatory, environmental, import/export and construction permits are in place. Pieridae has signed a 20-year sales agreement with German utility Uniper worth approximately $35 billion. The German Government is supportive of the project, declaring it eligible in principle for up to US$4.5 billion in loan guarantees. Pieridae owns natural gas assets in the Alberta Foothills, allowing it to maximize financial success. Arrangements are in place to use existing pipelines to transport the natural gas from Western Canada to the Goldboro facilitys front door. We have key assets in Quebec and we continue to look for ways of developing those assets. Pieridae continues to work with global engineering firm Kellogg Brown & Root Limited (KBR) to review an amended version of the previously prepared front-end engineering and design (FEED) study for Goldboro. KBR will also conduct an open-book estimate necessary for entering into a lump sum turnkey engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) contract. A benefits agreement has been signed with the Assembly of Nova Scotia Mikmaq Chiefs. The agreement means the Mikmaq will benefit economically from the development, construction and operation of the facility. I want to be clear: nothing has fundamentally changed with our Goldboro LNG Project. We continue to take steps to move the project forward and our business model remains sound, said Pieridae CEO Alfred Sorensen, Specifically, the German Government loan guarantees have not changed, we have negotiated arrangements with pipeline companies to transport natural gas to Goldboro, the Canadian Mainline continues to operate at less than half capacity and there is plenty of space to move our gas to the East Coast. Finally, pipelines across the country already exist, no new pipelines are needed to bring the gas to Nova Scotia, and we maintain a respectful relationship with all stakeholders. In addition, we continue to discuss financing options for the project as well as looking for new Alberta natural gas supplies to fill out the gas needed for the first facility or Train 1 at Goldboro. Pieridae expects to start construction activities for Goldboro LNG in 2019 and ship first gas overseas to meet the expected global LNG shortfall in 2023/2024. Goldboro is Eastern Canadas only fully permitted LNG facility with gas supplies, a pipeline route and an anchor customer. The project is expected to create thousands of Canadian jobs and establish a solid global market for Canadian natural gas for years to come. About Pieridae Founded in 2011, Pieridae, a majority Canadian owned corporation based in Calgary, is focused on the development of integrated energy-related activities, from the exploration and extraction of natural gas to the development, construction and operation of the Goldboro LNG facility and the production of LNG for sale to Europe and other markets. Pieridae is on the leading edge of the re-integration of the LNG value chain in North America. Pieridae has 84,121,990 common shares issued and outstanding which trade on the TSX Venture Exchange (PEA). For further information please contact: Alfred Sorensen, Chief Executive Officer Melanie Litoski, Chief Financial Officer Telephone: (403) 261-5900 Telephone: (403) 261-5900 James Millar, Director, External Relations Telephone: (403) 261-5900 Forward-Looking Statements Certain statements contained herein may constitute "forward-looking statements" or "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities laws (collectively "forward-looking statements"). Words such as "may", "will", "should", "could", "anticipate", "believe", "expect", "intend", "plan", "potential", "continue", "shall", "estimate", "expect", "propose", "might", "project", "predict", "forecast" and similar expressions may be used to identify these forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve significant risk and uncertainties. A number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from the results discussed in forward-looking statements including, but not limited to, risks associated with the Goldboro project, risks associated with the open book estimate, the ability to obtain a lump sum turnkey contract, the ability to meet project completion timelines, expectations of market prices in future years, targets for of job creation, expectations for impact on local and international economies, benefits to be derived from the project, and other risks and uncertainties described elsewhere herein or in Pieridaes other filings with Canadian securities regulatory authorities. Forward-looking statements are based on a number of factors and assumptions which have been used to develop such forward-looking statements, but which may prove to be incorrect. Although it is believed that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements because no assurance can be given that such expectations will prove to be correct. Additional information on factors that could affect operations and financial results are included in reports of Pieridae on file with Canadian securities regulatory authorities and may be accessed through the SEDAR website (www.sedar.com), and at Pieridae's website (www.pieridaeenergy.com). Although the forward-looking statements contained herein are based upon what management believes to be reasonable assumptions, management cannot assure that actual results will be consistent with these forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements contained herein are made as of the date hereof and Pieridae has no obligation to update publicly or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable securities laws. Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. BILOXI, Miss. - A Mississippi police officer helped a driver out of a wrecked sports car and told the man he was lucky to be alive. Less than an hour later, the officer was killed by another person who walked up and shot him outside the police station. Biloxi police records show Patrolman Robert McKeithen (muh-KEETH-en) responded to a crash Sunday night and then returned to the station because he had gotten a flat tire. The driver, 22-year-old Damon Corrigan, told the Sun Herald he crashed after falling asleep at the wheel on the bridge over Biloxi Bay. He said the left side of his Ford Mustang was destroyed and McKeithen helped him get out of the car. Corrigan said McKeithen also accompanied him to a hospital. Corrigan said he was shocked to learn McKeithen had been killed. The only thing I remember him telling me was that I was so lucky to be alive, Corrigan told the newspaper. He was so nice. I felt so bad. McKeithen, 57, had worked for Biloxi Police Department for almost 24 years. Darian (DEHR-uhn) Atkinson, 19, of Biloxi, is charged with capital murder in the officers death. A sworn statement filed by a sheriffs deputy, Nickolas Pennington, said surveillance video at the police station showed a man walking up behind McKeithen and shooting him several times, according to WLOX-TV . The video then showed the shooter running through the parking lot. McKeithens wife, Pamela McKeithen, said in a video released by the city of Biloxi that her husband loved being a police officer. Besides his family, that was his life, she said. He took meticulous care of his uniforms, like Dont touch it. Ive got this. He was going to make sure everything is in its place on his uniform. He would iron it every day, shine his boots. Darian Atkinson was arrested Monday in Wiggins, about 40 miles (65 kilometres) north of the crime scene. His 21-year-old brother, Davian Atkinson, and two other men, Dalentez Brice, 20, and Joshua Kovach, 21, have been charged with accessory after the fact in the killing. Investigators say they believe Davian Atkins drove his brother to Wiggins and let him make phone calls. Davian Atkinson told a judge Wednesday he would hire an attorney, but it was not immediately clear whether he had done so by Thursday. Brice and Kovach were arrested Wednesday and were being held without bond. It was also not immediately known whether either has a lawyer who could be reached for comment. Darian Atkinsons mother, Pamela Broger, told The Associated Press on Tuesday that her son had been having mental health problems in recent months. She said she had to call police to her home because of him. Darian Atkinson smiled and hummed as he was led into a courtroom Wednesday at the Harrison County Jail in Gulfport, where he made an initial appearance on the capital murder charge. He was wearing a knee-length sleeveless vest the sheriff said is for inmates considered suicide risks. Darian Atkinson told Justice Court Judge Brandon Ladner he didnt know if he would need a public defender because he had not been able to call his family. EAGLE RIVER, Alaska - Residents of two Alaska communities are discussing the possibility of leaving the municipality of Anchorage to form their own local government, according to the group. More than 100 people attended an informational meeting in Eagle River Friday to discuss what organizers call EaglExit, The Chugiak-Eagle River Star reported Wednesday. The two communities are within Anchorages municipal boundaries, but Eagle River is 16 miles (26 kilometres) north of the city, while Chugiak is another five miles (8 kilometres) north. The group hopes to raise $100,000 to conduct a feasibility study for a municipality separate from Anchorage consisting of Eagle River and Chugiak, as well as neighbouring Peters Creek, Eklutna, and Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, a combined Army and Air Force facility. EagleExit was formed by residents seeking greater self-determination, said group chair Michael Tavoliero of Eagle River. We like the idea of local self-government, and by that I mean being able to determine whats going on in your community and have a voice in that, Tavoliero said. The groups name was inspired by Brexit, the informal title given to the British governments ongoing effort to separate from the European Union. Chugiak-Eagle River does not have adequate representation on the Anchorage Assembly or the Anchorage School Board, members said. District 2 has two of the assemblys 11 seats and its school board representatives are elected as at-large members. I do not believe they understand the needs of District 2, Tavoliero said. A San Antonio, Texas, conservative organization called the Justice Foundation is collecting donations on EaglExits behalf. JUNEAU, Alaska - Under a proposed rewrite of state crime laws, Alaska legislators would require the courts to review for a federal database system records dating to 1981 for individuals who have been involuntarily committed and would be restricted from owning firearms. While debates over guns elicit fears of erosions of the Second Amendment right to bear arms, this provision has generated few waves. Republican Gov. Mike Dunleavys administration is pushing it as a way to prevent future violence or suicides. National Rifle Association spokesman Lars Dalseide by email said that group has always called for the submission of all relevant records to the system and that position hasnt changed. Some Republicans in the state Legislature have expressed support. Rep. Chuck Kopp, a former police officer, said he supports Second Amendment rights but said theres a balance in wanting to ensure the database has that information to improve the safety of the general public. The state in 2014 began requiring the courts to provide to the Department of Public Safety information on involuntary commitments. It also set out a process by which affected individuals could seek to have their gun rights restored. The laws sponsor, Republican Rep. Lance Pruitt, at the time noted Alaskas steadfast tradition of the right to responsible firearm ownership, and he saw providing relevant information to the database as a key part of that responsibility. There are some people who might find themselves surprised by it, and that part is my concern, he said of the new proposal Thursday. But the benefits probably outweigh those other concerns. But I dont say that without recognizing that there could be some people who were affected. That law was part of a national trend to bolster information provided to the FBIs National Instant Criminal Background Check System, which is used by licensed gun sellers to determine if prospective buyers are eligible to purchase firearms. The system relies on available criminal history and mental health records. The databases are only as good as the information thats in them, said Kelly Howell, special assistant to Alaskas public safety commissioner, adding later: I just really feel strongly that this is something the state can do to help prohibit and prevent some violence and some sad incidents in peoples lives. The administration proposes going back to 1981 because it says thats when the states civil commitment laws were passed. Alaska also has high rates of suicide. From October 2014 through the end of last December, Alaska listed 432 individuals as prohibited from possessing a gun because of involuntary commitments or court orders of mental illness or incompetence, according to FBI data. By comparison, the state reported 4,458 records for individuals barred from having guns because of felony or certain serious misdemeanour convictions during the same time period. Some states, like Montana and Wyoming, show small numbers of people across all categories who would be prohibited from having a gun. Nationally, FBI data shows about 5.7 million active records related to the mental health category, as of the end of 2018. Its unclear how many people would be barred from buying guns if the provision passes in Alaska. The court system estimates it would need to research 21,637 cases filed before it switched to electronic record-keeping including files stored on microfilm to provide to the Department of Public Safety court orders related to involuntary commitments and any subsequent judicial orders finding a person is unlikely to be a danger to themselves or others and able to possess a firearm. Mark Regan, legal director of the Disability Law Center of Alaska, cited concern with reaching so far back. What youre looking at are people not knowing that there would be these consequences whove been in the civil commitment process at times beginning in 1981, he said. It might well be that there would be people who would have contested the civil commitment more vigorously if they had known that 20 years later or 30 years later they would be reported to the database. He acknowledged people could petition the courts but questioned how well known that process is. Lindsay Nichols, federal policy director with the Giffords Law Center to Prevent Gun Violence, said other states have passed laws calling for prior-year commitments to be added to the database, such as Texas and Minnesota. According to the centre, federal law does not require states to submit information to system, making participation voluntary. Howell said the department would seek federal grant funding to help the courts if the expanded review is approved. The court estimates the cost at about $140,000. If someone is determined, there are other ways they can potentially obtain firearms. But this is one thing that we can and should do to ensure that those who shouldnt have firearms are prohibited from purchasing and possessing them, she said. PROMONTORY, Utah - The May 10, 1869, completion of the Transcontinental Railroad was a pivotal moment in the United States, ushering in a period of progress and expansion nationwide. The presidents of the Union Pacific and Central Pacific railroads met in remote Promontory, Utah, to mark the occasion, driving a ceremonial last spike to connect their rail lines. The Baltimore Sun, relying on telegraphed dispatches by The Associated Press from Utah and dispatches from other U.S. cities, published the following article on the event and how it was celebrated across the U.S. It first appeared on May 11, 1869. The AP is reprinting it in honour of the Transcontinental Railroads 150th anniversary. ___ COMPLETION OF THE PACIFIC RAILROAD. Official Announcement Telegraphing the Hammer Strokes Rejoicing and Congratulation Ringing of Bells and Other Demonstrations. PROMONTORY SUMMIT, Utah, May 10, noon. To the Associated Press: The last rail is laid. The last spike is driven. The Pacific railroad is completed. The point of junction is 1,086 miles west of the Missouri river, and 690 miles east of Sacramento. LELAND STANFORD, Central Pacific Railroad T.C. DURANT, SIDNEY DILLON, JOHN DUFF, Union Pacific Railroad ___ THE NEWS RECEIVED IN NEW YORK NEW YORK, May 10. The last spike in the Pacific railroad was driven today at five minutes past 3 oclock P.M., New York time. San Francisco, Chicago, St. Louis, New Orleans, New York, Boston, Philadelphia and Plaister Cove, the end of the cable, were connected with Promontory Point by telegraph, and the hammer strokes on the last spike were duly transmitted according to arrangement. When the news was received in New York a hundred guns were fired in the City Hall Park, and Mayor Hall forwarded a congratulatory message to the Mayor of San Francisco. A commemorative celebration had previously been held in Trinity Church, at which a telegram forwarded by the Chamber of Commerce to the Chamber in San Francisco was read, and an address delivered by Rev. Dr. Vinton. After prayer and reading of portions of the Episcopal service, the organ pealed and chimes rung as the large congregation left the church. Flags on the city hall and on many public and private buildings were displayed all day in honour of the great event. ___ FREE TRADE AND THE PACIFIC RAILROAD. A meeting of the American Free Trade League of New York was held at Cooper Institute tonight at which many of the prominent members of the organization were present. David Dudley Field called the assemblage to order, and Howard Potter presided. Addresses were delivered by William Cullen Bryant and Edward Atkinson, and the following resolution was adopted: Resolved, That in the opening of the great Pacific railroad today, connecting New York and San Francisco, we recognize a pledge, not only for one country, one constitution and one destiny, but with a due regard to the revenue, for the freest sort of trade with all countries and all continents. ___ RINGING THE BELLS IN PHILADELPHIA Philadelphia, May 10. At 2:30 oclock P.M. precisely, Philadelphia time, the news was received of the driving of the last spike of the Pacific railroad. Word was sent to the mayor, and in a few minutes the bells in Independence Hall and the various fire stations were rung, drawing crowds into the streets under the impression that a general alarm of fire was being rung. The people soon ascertained the reason of the ringing of the bells, and flags were immediately displayed everywhere. A large number of steam fire engines ranged in front of Independence Hall with screaming whistles and hose carriage bells ringing. Joy was expressed in every face at the completion of this great work of country. The sudden flocking of the people to the State House reminded one of the reception of the news of the surrender of Lees army, when a similar scene was enacted. ___ THE REJOICEING AT CHICAGO. Chicago, May 10. The celebration of the completion of the great inter-ocean railroad connection today was the most successful affair of the kind that ever took place in Chicago, and probably in the West. It is entirely impromptu, and therefore almost every man, woman and child in the city did their part toward making it a success. The procession was unique in appearance and immense in length, the lowest estimate putting it down at seven miles. During the moving of the procession, Vice-President Colfax received the following dispatch: Promontory Summit, Utah, May 10. Hon. Schuyler Colfax, Vice-President: The rails were connected today. The prophecy of Benton is today a fact. This is the way to India. G.M. DODGE, JOHN DUFF, SIDNEY DILLON, T.C. DURANT. This evening Vice-President Colfax, Lieut. Governor Bross and others addressed large audiences at Liberty Hall, in which they spoke eloquently of the great era which this day marks in the history of our country. During the evening there was general indulgence in fireworks, bonfires, illumination, &c. ___ THE CELEBRATION ELSEWHERE. There was great rejoicing over the event at Scranton, Pennsylvania, where cannon, bells and whistles of locomotives were employed to give eclat to the occasion. In Buffalo, New York, a large gong was attached to the telegraph wire, and at 2:41 P.M. by the time of that city began to ring out the hammer strokes. The crowd sung the Star-Spangled Banner, and jubilee speeches were made by the orators. Omaha dispatches say that telegrams from Echo City report that the troubles of the railroad labourers near Piedmont were amicably settled. ___ The AP Corporate Archives contributed to this report. WASHINGTON - Democrats call it a constitutional crisis. But is it? Stunned by the extent of the White Houses blanket refusal to comply with oversight by Congress, the Democrats warn that the Trump administration is shattering historic norms and testing the nations system of checks and balances in new and alarming ways. Its not just the Houses fight with the Justice Department over the release of special counsel Robert Muellers report . The standoff involves President Donald Trumps unwillingness to engage with dozens of Capitol Hill probes of his tax returns , potential business conflicts and the running of the administration from security clearances for his family to actions hes taken on his own on immigration. Its a confrontation thats only expected to deepen now that Muellers work is finished and the investigation focus shifts to Capitol Hill. Trump derides the probes as presidential harassment. Republican Senate leader Mitch McConnell tries to declare it all case closed. But Democrats warn that without the legislative branch staying on the case, keeping watch, any executive becomes more like a monarchy or tyranny that doesnt have to answer to the representatives of all Americans. Will the administration violate the Constitution and not abide by the requests of Congress in its legitimate oversight responsibilities? asked House Speaker Nancy Pelosi on Thursday. Every day they are advertising their obstruction of justice, she said. Were not talking about isolated situations. Were talking about a cumulative effect of obstruction the administration is engaged in, and the president has warned that he is not going to honour any subpoenas from Congress. Struggles between the executive and legislative branches are nothing new. The House voted to hold George W. Bush administration officials in contempt over an investigation into the firing of U.S. attorneys. Barack Obamas attorney general, Eric Holder, was found in contempt over an undercover gun-running operation. But those were specific cases. The difference, say historians and legal scholars, is that Trump has announced he will essentially ignore all oversight requests from Congress. Congressional experts say a big risk is setting a precedent that goes way beyond Trump. What happens, for example, if an administration stonewalls Congress on information it wants for an investigation of air or water quality rules or anything else? Can the White House just say no? We have a big problem, said Julian E. Zelizer, a Princeton University professor who studies history and public affairs. Trumps new stance, at the end of the Mueller investigation, comes as the president faces a divided Congress for the first time. Democrats talked of being a check on him when they took control of the House in January, upsetting the calm he enjoyed during two years of friendlier relations with Republicans in charge of both chambers. Zelizer said with Trump aggressively flexing power to shut down oversight capacity of another branch, its unclear who and how this is resolved, especially with Senate Republicans standing by their man. Asked if this is a constitutional crisis, Zelizer said, I think we are looking at one. Jack Balkin, a Yale Law School expert on the Constitution, wont go that far, but he said the Democrats are describing a real problem. There is a breakdown in constitutional norms that keep the republic going, Balkin said. In an ordinary world, you just have negotiations over subpoenas. It happens all the time. Congress and the president work it out. After talks broke down this week between the House Judiciary Committee and the Justice Department over the panels subpoena for the full Mueller report, the committee voted to recommend that Attorney General William Barr be held in contempt of Congress. Lawmakers want to see a less fully redacted version of the publicly released 448-page document on Russian interference in the 2016 election. They say they need to know whats in the hundreds of fully or partly blacked-out pages that were publicly released to better understand how to protect elections from future interference. Barr says he tried to accommodate the request as much as he could before asking Trump to invoke executive privilege to enable him to block it. While theres no direct oversight written in the Constitution, the House historical website says its implied in Article 1 that gives Congress all legislative powers, with investigations intended as a way to seek necessary information for that purpose. Underscoring that, the Supreme Court ruled nearly 100 years ago that the power of inquiry -- with process to enforce it -- is an essential and appropriate auxiliary to the legislative function. Saikrishna Prakash, an expert on presidential power at the University of Virginia, said he doubts that Trump will carry out a total refusal to participate in congressional oversight. If you want to have an oversight hearing on EPA and a clean water rule, theyre probably going to send someone, Prakash said. The president doesnt care about that. He cares about the Russia investigation and obstruction, and he cares about an investigation into his personal finances. The presidents advisers say part of Trumps strategy is to slow-walk his legal battles with Congress in court, seeing an advantage for the 2020 campaign. His public arguments are more political than legal: He portrays the Democrats as unhinged. Democrats, though, believe the public is on their side in pursuing oversight of Trump. Rep. Jerrold Nadler of New York, chairman of the Judiciary Committee, said the White House is stonewalling the American public from all information and this cannot be. We cannot have a government where all the information is in the executive branch. He said, Its an attack on the essence of our democracy and we must oppose this. WICHITA, Kan. - A former Kansas home health worker who was convicted of stealing jewelry and money from elderly clients has been ordered to pay $89,000 in restitution. Thirty-three-year-old Dawn Becker also was placed on probation for five years and could be sent to prison if she fails to make regular restitution payments. Sedgwick County District Attorney Marc Bennett said in a news release that the thefts happened in 2017 and 2018 while Becker was working for three different home health companies in Wichita. At the hearing, Becker said she was having financial difficulties and pawned stolen items or used her clients financial cards to get money. Bennett says Becker also was barred from working as a home health care worker or at a nursing home. Becker now lives in Reno County. BALTIMORE - Officials in Baltimores City Hall have released a list of items seized by federal agents when they raided former Mayor Catherine Pughs office. The inventory released Wednesday sheds some light on the ongoing federal investigation into Pugh. She resigned a week after her offices, homes and other locations were raided by FBI and IRS agents and it became clear that a federal grand jury has been empaneled. The seized items include Money Gram receipts, a laptop, compact discs, and a $100,000 check from the University of Maryland Medical System to Pughs Healthy Holly company. They also include paperwork for her Squeegee Corps youth program and settlement details for the purchase of one of her city homes. Agents also seized timesheets for Gary Brown, a Pugh aide who was recently fired. GENEVA, Neb. - Authorities have filed more charges against a man already charged in connection with the discovery of hundreds of dead, ailing or neglected cattle at his farm in southern Nebraskas Fillmore County. Court records say 30-year-old Aaron Ogren now faces one felony count of theft, nine felony counts of prohibited sale of livestock and 30 felony counts of cruelty to animals. His next court hearing is scheduled for May 29 in Exeter. His attorney, Bradley Kalkwarf, declined to comment Thursday. The new charges focus on the prohibited sale of livestock. Prosecutors say Ogren sold bulls he didnt own. Local and state officials removed about 200 surviving head of cattle from the feedlot about 3 miles (5 kilometres) northwest of Exeter. Another 200 cows were dead when investigators arrived in March. ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. - New Mexicos top prosecutor is demanding that the U.S. Air Force close a publicly accessible lake at Holloman Air Force Base, saying Thursday the concentration of hazardous chemicals at the site poses a risk to public health and the environment. In a letter obtained by The Associated Press, Attorney General Hector Balderas told Air Force officials that sampling shows the contamination linked to chemicals known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS are dozens of times higher than federal health advisory levels. In the case of perfluorooctanoic acid, or PFOA, the samples showed 84 times more than the advisory levels set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. These sampling results exacerbate the states concern for its citizens and the environment, Balderas wrote, noting that the presence of the chemicals poses an ongoing severe threat to members of the public. Fed by treated wastewater from the air base, the lake already is off limits to swimming. State health officials on Thursday again warned that people should not swim in or drink from the lake. If people come in contact with the water or foam near the shoreline, they should rinse off. Health officials also warned pet owners to avoid letting their animals drink or come into contact with the water or foam. New Mexico is preparing to sue the Air Force over groundwater contamination at two bases, arguing that the federal government has a responsibility to clean up plumes of toxic chemicals left behind by past military firefighting activities. Similar contamination has been found at dozens of military sites across the nation, and growing evidence that exposure can be dangerous has prompted the EPA to consider setting a maximum level for the chemicals in drinking water nationwide. Currently only non-enforceable drinking water health advisories are in place. New Mexico environmental regulators first issued a notice of violation to the Air Force in 2018 for failing to properly address the contamination at Cannon Air Force Base near Clovis. They followed earlier this year on Holloman, saying that base had violated its state permit and had yet to respond to concerns about the pollution near Alamogordo. Balderas set a deadline of May 16 for the Air Force to respond to his latest request. The Air Force has repeatedly declined to comment on the states pending litigation but argues that its response to PFAS contamination in New Mexico and elsewhere has been aggressive. The military has provided alternate water sources for those in areas where Air Force activity likely contributed to contamination. Officials also have said theyve been working with regulators to identify and implement long-term solutions to prevent exposure. According to a report from independent federal investigators, the U.S. military as of 2017 had spent about $200 million on environmental investigations and other responses related to chemicals at 263 installations around the country. The U.S. Department of Defence has said it could take years to determine a total price tag for PFAS contamination at military sites. The attorney generals office also is asking that the Air Force make publicly available all information it has related to the risk of PFAS exposure at and around the Holloman and Cannon bases. Balderas wrote that his requests wont diminish the contamination emanating from the bases, but it will help protect citizens from one pathway of exposure. Holloman borders Alamogordo, where 31,000 residents rely on groundwater within the Tularosa Basin. Base officials there identified five known sites where the chemicals were released. The lake is near the popular tourist destination of White Sands National Monument. Some visitors to the area have used the lakes shoreline as a camping spot. WASHINGTON - President Donald Trump on Thursday called for an end to surprise medical bills, the astonishingly high charges insured patients can face when a member of a medical team that treats them is not in their insurers network. Not a pleasant surprise, Trump said of bills that arrive in the mail and run to tens of thousands of dollars. A very unpleasant surprise. The administration threw its support behind efforts by lawmakers of both parties to address the problem, laying out a set of goals for legislation. With polls showing that voters trust Democrats over Republicans on health care, Trump has been hitting pocket-book medical issues that resonate with the middle-class, like prescription drug costs. He was joined at a White House event by patients, one who got a $110,000 bill after a heart attack, and another who got a bill for $17,850 for a test her insurer would have paid $100 for. So this must end, Trump said. Were going to hold insurance companies and hospitals totally accountable. The president said he wants to get it done quickly, and Sen. Lamar Alexander, R-Tenn., chairman of the Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, said he hoped to deliver a bill in July. Just before Trump spoke, the Democratic and Republican leaders of a key House committee said they are ready to move on legislation. No family should be left in financial ruin through no fault of their own, which is why we have been working together on a bipartisan solution to protect patients that we hope to announce soon, Energy and Commerce Chairman Frank Pallone, D-N.J., and ranking Republican Greg Walden, R-Ore., said in a joint statement. The panel oversees the health insurance industry. Pallone and Walden are not alone; more than a half-dozen senators and representatives have floated ideas or drafted legislation. Rep. Lloyd Doggett, D-Texas, chairman of the Ways and Means health panel, has a bill. Sens. Bill Cassidy, R-La., and Michael Bennet, D-Colo., collaborated on a bipartisan proposal, and other plans come from New Hampshire Democratic Sens. Maggie Hassan and Jeanne Shaheen. Surprise bills amounting to tens of thousands of dollars can hit patients and their families when they are most vulnerable after a medical emergency or following a complex surgical procedure. Often patients are able to negotiate lower charges by working with their insurers and the medical provider. But the process usually takes months, adding stress and anxiety. Sometimes it doesnt work out and the bills are sent to collection agencies. White House officials outlined a set of principles for legislation that Trump can back: Patients who receive emergency care should not be hit with charges that exceed the amount paid to in-network providers. In an emergency, patients are in no position to check whether their insurers have contracted with the surgeons or anesthesiologists who provide care. Patients going in for a scheduled procedure should get upfront information about whether their clinicians are in their insurers network and what costs they will face. Patients should not get out-of-network bills from a provider they did not pick. Fixes should not add to federal health care costs. States also have been working to protect consumers from surprise medical bills. A survey of states by Georgetown University found that about half have acted to protect consumers. California, Connecticut, Florida and a handful of others, have the most comprehensive protections. But states dont have jurisdiction over most health plans sponsored by large employers, which cover about 100 million people and operate under the umbrella of a federal law. A coalition that includes major insurers, business groups and consumer organizations has been pressing Congress for federal legislation. The basic elements would include informing patients when a doctor or service provider is out-of-network, setting a federal standard for what out-of-network clinicians can charge, and guaranteeing that the changes do not lead to premium increases. A major hang-up has been agreeing on payment rates for out-of-network services that are mutually acceptable to medical specialists, hospitals and insurers, who have conflicting interests. Another sticking point is the role of arbitration in settling billing issues. Some doctors groups favour arbitration, but White House officials who spoke with reporters Thursday said theyre not keen on it. Trumps move was applauded by Americas Health Insurance Plans, the main industry trade group. The Federation of American Hospitals, which represents for-profit institutions, expressed support for the goal of ending surprise billing, but cautioned against some proposed fixes. Insurers form networks of doctors and hospitals, in part, to gain some leverage for negotiating reimbursements. Usually patients pay a bigger share of the bill for any care sought outside those networks. But sometimes, patients dont know they got care outside of their network until they get their bill. Jack Hoadley, a research professor emeritus at Georgetown, told lawmakers last month that unexpected medical bills are a major concern for consumers, with two-thirds of Americans saying they are very worried or somewhat worried that they or someone in their family will receive a surprise bill. He said programs like Medicare, Medicaid and veterans care protect consumers from out-of-network bills. But the same protections do not exist for most private insurance. Selbyville, Delaware, May 09, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The aircraft refueling hose market is predicted to hike from USD 1.8 billion in 2018 to over USD 2.5 billion by 2025, according to a 2019 Global Market Insights, Inc. report. The proliferating demand for military jets for special purpose missions coupled with the increasing tanker size for supporting aerial refueling operations will drive the market growth. The significant product demand is further propelled by the rising defense budget, including the U.S., China and India, along with the increasing commercial airplane deliveries. Increasing commercial airplane delivery with a high demand for lighter airplanes with improved fuel efficiency will boost the aircraft refueling hose market share. The rising air passenger traffic along with the increasing demand for low-cost carriers is fostering the usage of refuellers in commercial air carriers. Request for a sample of this research report @ https://www.gminsights.com/request-sample/detail/3289 Rising low cost carriers demand will positively enhance aircraft refueling hose market size. Increasing adoption of low-cost carriers can be attributed to the availability of a vast network of routes at lower fares. Additionally, airliners are focusing on reducing extra services given to customers for free and offering packages at standardized rates, supporting the lowering of air fares. Growing demand for advanced refuellers and sales is driving the aircraft refueling hose market size over the study timeframe. Availability of wide range of built-in hose assembly with different diameter will further support the business growth. Stringent government regulations across the globe mandating periodic maintenance of products and replacements of old products not meeting the standards are supporting the revenue generation. Helicopters will showcase a considerable growth in the market size on account of the rising prevalence for Helicopter In-Flight Refueling (HIFR) systems. Upsurge in the tourism industry is significantly contributing to the growing demand for helicopters. Moreover, increased applications of helicopters in several industries, including oil & gas and mining, along with the installation of refueling hoses for increased reliability and higher fuel flow assurance will further propel the market size till 2025. Browse key industry insights spread across 307 pages with 438 market data tables & 14 figures & charts from the report, Aircraft Refueling Hose Market, By Application (Military Aircraft, Helicopters, Commercial Aircraft, UAV), By Distribution Channel (OEM, Aftermarket), Industry Analysis Report, Regional Outlook (U.S., Canada, Germany, UK, France, Italy, Spain, Russia, Poland, Netherlands, Sweden, Norway, China, Japan, India, Thailand, Australia, Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, Korea, Pakistan, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, UAE, Israel, Iran, Algeria), Growth Potential, Price Trends, Competitive Market Share & Forecast, 2019 2025 in detail along with the table of contents: https://www.gminsights.com/industry-analysis/aircraft-refueling-hose-market OEMs accounted for a substantial revenue share in the aircraft refueling hose market size on account of the increased installation of refuelers in airplane and ongoing technological advancements. Industry participants are developing lightweight fueling hoses to provide easier handling for reel services and meet the all-stringent requirements. Furthermore, airplane manufacturers are establishing strategic agreements to address air carriers fueling services for the U.S. defense requirements. North America will witness around 3% CAGR in the aircraft refueling hose market share owing to the increasing investments by industry participants to advance technologies. For instance, in February 2016, Boeing tanker KC-46 carried out the successful fueling of F/A-18 during its flight. Additionally, the deployment of multiple tankers with probe & drogue systems including the KC-130, C-160 NG, and KC-135 will further support the market expansion over the projected timeframe. The key aircraft refueling hose industry players include Perkar Hannifin, Eaton, Elaflex, Husky Corporation, Cobham Plc and Apache. Industry participants are engaged in long-term partnerships and strategic expansion of existing facilities. Make an Inquiry for purchasing this report @ https://www.gminsights.com/inquiry-before-buying/3289 Browse Related Reports: Aircraft Seating Market Size By Platform (Fixed Wing [Narrow Body, Widebody, Regional Aircrafts, Business Jets, Fighter Jets], Rotary Wing [Civil Helicopters, Military Helicopters]), By Class (First Class, Business Class, Premium Economy Class, Economy Class), By Fit (Line Fit, Retrofit) Industry Analysis Report, Regional Outlook (U.S., Canada, Germany, UK, France, Italy, Spain, Russia, Netherlands, China, Japan, India, South Korea, Brazil, Mexico, Colombia, Chile, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Israel), Growth Potential, Price Trends, Competitive Market Share & Forecast, 2019 2025 https://www.gminsights.com/industry-analysis/aircraft-seating-market Aircraft Ground Handling System Market Size By Application (Passenger Handling, Cargo Handling, Aircraft Handling) Industry Analysis Report, Regional Outlook (U.S., Canada, UK, Germany, France, Italy, Russia, China, India, Japan, Brazil, Mexico, Middle East, South Africa), Growth Potential, Price Trends, Competitive Market Share & Forecast, 2019 2025 https://www.gminsights.com/industry-analysis/aircraft-ground-handling-system-market About Global Market Insights Global Market Insights, Inc., headquartered in Delaware, U.S., is a global market research and consulting service provider; offering syndicated and custom research reports along with growth consulting services. Our business intelligence and industry research reports offer clients with penetrative insights and actionable market data specially designed and presented to aid strategic decision making. These exhaustive reports are designed via a proprietary research methodology and are available for key industries such as chemicals, advanced materials, technology, renewable energy and biotechnology. ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. - A gambler from Nevada lost $29 on a New Jersey internet gambling site, but the transactions cost a technology company $25,000. New Jersey regulators fined Gaming Innovation Group $25,000 for a flaw in its geolocation technology, which is designed to make sure people are within the states borders before they can gamble. The state Division of Gaming Enforcement says the Malta-based company, which provides online gambling for Atlantic Citys Hard Rock casino, had a technical vulnerability last summer. It allowed a patron trying to access the Hard Rocks gambling site from Nevada to inspect the browser code and change data to falsely indicate that the patron was located in New Jersey. On July 4, a geolocation company was checking the system at Hard Rocks request when it found the vulnerability. Patron access to the system was shut down and a fix was put in place the next day. The case goes to the heart of the legality of internet gambling in the U.S. In New Jersey, gamblers must be physically present within the state in order to gamble online. The way companies ensure this is through geolocation, a multi-layered series of technologies that determine where a person is at the time he or she is trying to place a bet. In this case, the gaming enforcement division determined, Gaming Innovation did not take adequate steps ensure that the computer server made the final call on whether a patron was within New Jersey. Instead, the patron was able to trick the system. The company calls it a one-time incident that was quickly reported and fixed. This one-off single incidence of out-of-state gambling was due to a technical vulnerability which was quickly discovered and reported to the regulator in New Jersey in the first week the company went live in New Jersey, Gaming Innovation said in a statement. An end user from outside the state of New Jersey with technical knowledge managed to access the front end debugger to change the location and pretend to be from New Jersey. The company said it maintains controls to make sure it complies with regulations at all times. It wasnt the first such mishap; in March, New Jersey gambling regulators ordered a California man to hand over more than $90,000 from online accounts he had funded and gambled with from outside the state. In a separate enforcement action, the division fined the Borgata casino $7,500 for taking prohibited sports bets. On Dec. 8, the casino accepted bets on two college basketball games, Clemson vs. Mississippi State, and Connecticut vs. Florida State. Both games were played at the Prudential Center in Newark. State law prohibits betting on New Jersey college teams, or any college games held within the state, even if it involves teams from elsewhere in the country. The casino refunded all wagers on those games. It declined to comment on the fine. ___ This story has been corrected to show the gambler lost $29, instead of winning it. ___ Follow Wayne Parry at http://twitter.com/WayneParryAC ALEXANDRIA, Va. - The Latest on charges filed against a former intelligence analyst accused of leaking classified documents to a reporter. 5:30 p.m. (all times local): A former government intelligence analyst charged with leaking classified documents to a reporter is being released from custody while he awaits trial. Thirty-one-year-old Daniel Everette Hale of Nashville, Tennessee, was arrested Thursday morning on charges filed under the federal Espionage Act. At an initial appearance Thursday afternoon in Nashville, a magistrate ordered Hale release under pretrial supervision until his next hearing. That will be May 17 in Virginia. An indictment filed in Alexandria, Virginia, states Gale worked as an intelligence analyst for the Air Force and later for the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency. The indictment says Hale began communications with a reporter in 2013 while at the Air Force and continued communications after going to NGA. According to the indictment, Hale provided 11 Top Secret documents to the reporter and his online news outlet. ___ 9 a.m. A former government intelligence analyst has been charged with leaking classified documents to a reporter. Authorities say 31-year-old Daniel Everette Hale of Nashville, Tennessee, was arrested Thursday morning and will make an initial appearance at the federal courthouse there. An indictment charges him with counts including obtaining and disclosing national defence information and theft of government property. According to the indictment, Gale worked as an intelligence analyst for the Air Force and later for the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency. The indictment says Hale began communications with a reporter in 2013 while at the Air Force and continued communications after going to NGA. According to the indictment, Hale provided 11 Top Secret or Secret documents to the reporter and his online news outlet. Those documents were published either in whole or in part. WASHINGTON - The Latest on President Donald Trumps effort to limit surprise medical bills (all times local): 1 p.m. President Donald Trump is ratcheting up pressure on the pharmaceutical industry to lower prices and announcing a new effort to end surprise medical bills for patients with health insurance. At a White House event Thursday on medical billing Trump also lent support to state efforts to import lower-priced prescriptions from countries where governments set the price. The U.S. drug industry has successfully fought off such moves for more than 20 years. The Florida legislature recently passed legislation that would authorize a state importation program, subject to federal approval. Trump said that might happen. He said the U.S. may allow states to buy drugs from other countries if they can buy them for lower prices. __ 12:40 p.m. President Donald Trump says its time to end surprise medical bills, which can leave insured patients facing sticker shock from charges submitted by doctors outside their insurers networks. Trump spoke at the White House on Thursday to lend his support to efforts by Republican and Democratic lawmakers. White House aides outlined a set of principles for legislation. Trump was joined by a heart attack patient who got a $110,000 bill even though he had health insurance and by another patient who was charged $17,850 for a test that would have cost $100 in her insurers network. Trump says he thinks legislation can move quickly and Democrats and Republicans can do this. Insurers form networks of doctors and hospitals, in part, to gain leverage for negotiating reimbursements. Usually patients pay a bigger share of the bill for any care sought outside those networks. ___ 10 a.m. President Donald Trump wants to limit surprise medical bills, the unexpected charges faced by insured patients when a member of a health care team that treated them is considered an out-of-network provider. Senior administration officials tell The Associated Press the Republican president on Thursday will outline principles he can support as part of legislation to limit such billing practices. Republican and Democratic lawmakers have expressed interest in crafting legislation to tackle the subject. Insurers form networks of doctors and hospitals, in part, to gain some leverage for negotiating reimbursements. Usually patients pay a bigger share of the bill for any care sought outside those networks. The administration officials spoke on the condition of anonymity because they werent authorized to speak publicly on the matter before Trumps announcement. Mayor slams Ford over damaging budget cuts, May 7 Bravo to Mayor John Tory for standing up for Toronto. Premier Doug Fords comments to Tory about wading into provincial issues he is neither involved in or understands is extremely ironic, in that Ford continually ignores or does not consult with experts in the fields he is quick to condemn with cuts. Fords tone is arrogant and vindictive, and reveals he is no leader and no friend to Toronto. Diane Sullivan, Toronto Mayor John Tory would do well to look carefully at Mondays editorial page cartoon ironically showing exactly what kids are no longer taught by todays educators (The 3 Rs in Ontario). Reading books has been replaced by using tablets to consult the oracles Google or Wikipedia. Cursive writing being no longer taught for the use of keyboards, so anyone might wonder how todays youth can sign their names to a mortgage document. The missing panel of rithmetic is even more rightly absent for the misbegotten attempts at so-called intuitive arithmetic by educators forget the times-table anymore. So after studying all this, the mayor may do well to ask just what has been gotten for the all the money spent in the educational system and why budget reductions just might be the way to go. Robert Michaels, Burlington Could things possibly be worse? Well, if Doug Ford had run for mayor like he said he would and won, and then the PCs under Patrick Brown were elected in Ontario, Toronto could have had more and bigger budget cuts thrown at it. That would be even more damaging than now. John Purvis, Colborne, Ont. Read more about: Ontarians are complaining about the Ford governments budget cuts, but lets ask ourselves: As concerned citizens, are we doing our best to help the PCs reduce the provincial debt? So lets stop grumbling and start offering construction suggestions. 1. It must cost a bundle to run that ugly pink pile called Queens Park. Shutter it. There are large private-sector venues in Toronto that would be delighted to host daytime legislature sessions for a fee. Move MPPs and their staff out of offices and into private-sector coffee shops. Give them a budget for coffee so they can keep drinking and not get kicked out before 5 p.m. That leaves us with a huge empty building in downtown Toronto; lease it to the city for housing or sell it to developers for luxury condos. Talk about a win-win-win situation. 2. PC MPPs want to share the pain as they go about chopping, but they dont have children with autism or hungry kids, and they dont use municipal water supplies or libraries. So lets institute a kind of reverse BOGO system: For every one dollar removed from public goods and services by the PCs, the PC MPPs will contribute matching debt-reduction funds out of their own (healthy) salaries. Citizens, lets get the ideas rolling in. Margaret Kerr, Toronto Read more about: OTTAWAThe federal Liberals have allocated an additional $45 million in funding for Toronto to accommodate a spike in the number of asylum claimants as the war of words with the Ford government heats up. Federal Border Security Minister Bill Blair blasted the provincial government Thursday, saying talks between Ottawa and Queens Park on working collaboratively on the file had broken down. Blair said the federal government will effectively go around Queens Park to deal directly with Tory and Toronto city hall. The Liberals have now committed a total of $78 million to assist Toronto with providing temporary housing and services as asylum claimants await their hearings. The Ontario government, for reasons of their own, have decided to step right out of their traditional role in providing any kind of support or partnership, Blair said outside the House of Commons. Ideally we work with and through our provincial partners. But when that partner leaves the table and steps away from their responsibilities, were not going to leave the cities hanging. Blair was responding to a letter sent by Ontarios Community and Social Services Minister Lisa MacLeod to Mayor John Tory Wednesday. In the letter, MacLeod pointedly asked Tory to look to the federal government, not the province, to recoup an estimated $47 million in costs associated with housing and providing services for the asylum claimants roughly the same amount Blair committed Thursday. Read more: Toronto mayor declares war on Ford governments ill-advised budget cutbacks Ford government is ending co-operation with Ottawa on resettlement of asylum-seekers Refugee who lost fingers to frostbite pleads with MPs not to pass new asylum law While you have found time to hold media availabilities and photo opportunities at city hall to protest a reallocation of 0.24 per cent of your total budget, MacLeod wrote, referencing provincial cuts to public health, child care and transit services Tory says will cost Toronto hundreds of millions per year, you seem to have forgotten about the tens of millions of dollars owed to you by the Federal government. Speaking earlier at Queens Park, MacLeod told reporters that she appreciates Blairs candour and that they have had good conversation over the last few months. But she also referenced a report released this week by the auditor general that showed that the higher levels of asylum claimants has put a strain on the system and caused delays, suggesting it showed the federal government is ill-equipped to deal with the challenges stemming from these failed border policies. Blair said that he thought federal and provincial talks had been making progress on the file, but said those talks have broken down. Ive met a number of time with Minister MacLeod, Ive also had my officials working with her officials. We thought we were making progress on managing this more collectively together, Blair said. Unfortunately that did not happen, and the City of Toronto and the City of Ottawa and other municipalities have made it very clear that they have real needs that need to be addressed right now, and rather than allow it to be prolonged in what has been an unfruitful effort at collaboration, weve gone right to the cities. The Ford government is fighting this particular battle on two fronts municipal and federal. Mayor John Tory said there is a stark difference between Torontos dealings with the federal government and Queens Park. Prime Minister Justin Trudeaus government has been happy to hear the municipality out on their needs, Tory said Wednesday. The provincial government, on the other hand, has embarked unilaterally without any consultation on cuts that I think are very damaging to the city of Toronto, and done without reaching out to have any discussion, Tory said. Toronto isnt asking Queens Park for money, just help asking other Ontario communities if they have jobs and accommodation to help settle newcomers. That help hasnt come. That is a huge difference between that (federal) approach, sitting with us at the table and looking at the facts and figures and deciding on a response and the provincial government which instead calls nobody, speaks with nobody except to call and tell us about arbitrary, unilateral cuts that theyve made to things like child care and public health, Tory said. I think its a pretty fundamental difference. I think the Ontario government is on the wrong side. David Rider is the Stars City Hall bureau chief and a reporter covering Toronto politics. Follow him on Twitter: @dmrider Read more about: OTTAWAOne month after Premier Doug Ford unveiled his plan for trains and subways in the GTA, Ottawa and Queens Park appear to be talking past each other about how to pay for the $28.5-billion transit overhaul. The federal infrastructure minister says he still doesnt know how Ontario plans to roll ahead with its GTA transit plan, even as his counterpart at Queens Park accuses his government of being silent on the proposal. The plan calls for up to $11.4 billion from the federal government, but its not clear how much of that money could be drawn from an existing, provincewide funding deal for transit with the federal government, which includes $4.9 billion already committed to projects in Toronto. Weve been asking the questions to the Ford government to better explain how they intend to do that, Infrastructure Minister Francois-Philippe Champagne told a news conference Thursday. Expressing a new vision, through a presentation which was pretty short on detailswe are asking the same questions you have: What do you intend to do? What do you want to prioritize? he said. What Premier Ford presented looked more like a presentation than a plan to me. Read more: Tories unveil spending estimates and more details on budget cuts Ford government tables legislation to take over new Toronto transit projects YIKES!!! Metrolinx draft reports give insight into how agency pitches transit plans Ontario Infrastructure Minister Monte McNaughton shot right back, stating in an email to the Star that Ottawa has actually been silent on our governments historic investment in GTA transit. He said the plan will ease gridlock across the region, and accused Prime Minister Justin Trudeau of preferring to squabble with Queens Park than to pick up a shovel. We are looking for acknowledgement from the federal Liberal government that the transit projects we have unveiled are the types they would fund, McNaughton said. The exchange came after Champagne presented a report Thursday outlining progress on the federal governments massive infrastructure plan, which cranks up spending to $188 billion for projects across Canada over the 12 years between 2016 and 2028. So far, Champagne said 48,000 projects have been approved at the cost of $42.3 billion almost a quarter of the money for the plan and nearly all of those projects are either complete or nearly finished. While insisting the plan is on time and on track, Champagne said he would like to see future projects approved quicker. As with Ontarios plan for transit in the GTA, Champagne said Ottawa is dependent on provinces to identify and approve infrastructure projects with municipalities that can receive federal funding. With the summer construction season setting in, he said it is important that provinces particularly those with relatively new governments, like Ontario, Quebec and New Brunswick prioritize projects for funding from the federal infrastructure plan. This is money already on the table. So, clearly, because the process is the province needs to identify and prioritize (projects), you would appreciate as the federal government, we would like things to flow faster, he said. Politics has no place in infrastructure, he added. I think, at the end of the day, we want the same thing ... This is a long term nation-building endeavour. During the 2015 election, the Liberals promised to run deficits to fund an infrastructure blitz that would spur economic growth and solve persistent problems like urban traffic congestion and unsafe drinking water on First Nations reserves. While the deficit is now bigger and longer-lasting than they promised a fact that is frequently highlighted by the Conservative oppositionChampagne insisted the infrastructure spending is going to be worth it. Citing data from Finance Canada, he said the program will create 100,000 jobs across the country and increase the national gross domestic product (GDP) by 0.4 per cent by 2021. Beyond that, he pointed to what he called the enabling factor the yet-to-be-determined benefits of better bridges, roads, water treatment systems and transit corridors that he said will attract quality employers to set up shop in Canada and ease the flow of trade. For example, he said the project to widen the Trans Canada highway in B.C.s Lower Mainland will make for smoother export of goods from the Port of Vancouver to countries that are part of the new Pacific trade agreement. Youre investing billions of dollars, but at the same time, youre facilitating trade in the order of billions per year and youre building an asset that will be there for generations, Champagne said. I think that Canadians who are watching us will understand thats not only the right thing to do to make sure that trade will continue, but its the smart thing to do because that will allow (us) to sustain economic activity. This is not spending. I say its investing. After Champagnes news conference, Conservative MP Matt Jeneroux released a statement that claimed the Liberal infrastructure spending isnt creating the economic growth that was promised. In March, the Parliamentary Budget Officer published a report that found provincial spending on infrastructure was $5.4 billion lower since 2016, suggesting provincial funding was displaced by money from Ottawa. As a result, real GDP growth in 2016-17 was slightly lower (0.16 or 0.17 per cent) than it would have been if provincial infrastructure spending didnt drop, the report found. Canadians deserve a government that will work with municipalities and ensure the infrastructure projects they need are delivered on time and on budget, Jeneroux said. The Liberal infrastructure plan is another example of how the Trudeau government is all talk and no action. Read more about: The Progressive Conservatives are spending almost $5 billion more than any government in Ontario history, but the tabling of expenditure estimates reveals huge cuts in many areas. Treasury Board President Peter Bethlenfalvy tabled the 2019-20 estimates Thursday, fleshing out Finance Minister Vic Fedelis record $163.4-billion budget of a month ago and adding a sobering message. Ontario must chart a new fiscal path or risk becoming a failed economic state, said Bethlenfalvy, who defended Premier Doug Fords Tories for spending more than former premier Kathleen Wynnes Liberals projected last year. One of the biggest cuts is to the budget of the Ministry of Community and Social Services, which is projected to be $892 million less than last years estimate. About $16.6 billion will be spent, down from an anticipated $17.5 billion, mostly due to changes Ontarios social assistance programs, Ontario Works and the Ontario Disability Support Program. The government is moving forward with reforms that restore dignity, encourage employment and empower the provinces most vulnerable to break free from the poverty cycle, said a spokesman for Social Services Minister Lisa MacLeod, noting a planned 3 per cent welfare rate increase was halved to 1.5 per cent. While autism services are being bolstered after the Tories endured protests from parents and children following a controversial program revamp, theres a cut to the Family Responsibility Office, which goes after deadbeat parents for not paying court-ordered child support. The government hopes to save $3.3 million through increased use of improved digital and analytics technologies. Share your thoughts: Read more: Social programs face $1 billion spending cut in Ontario budget Ford cuts will cost Toronto $177.65 million this year, city manager warns Ford government cuts Ontario Library Service budgets in half At the Ministry of Education, where overall spending is up, child care capital expenditures will be slashed from a projected $103 million to $10 million a $93 million reduction. Although spending is going up at the Ministry of Health, unspecified research programs are being cut by $51.7 million. As part of our governments commitment to direct all available resources to front-line care, we have made the decision to wind down certain research programs. As we do, we are supporting an effective and respectful wind-down period for impacted organizations, said an aide to Health Minister Christine Elliott. At Economic Development, $212 million is being slashed from job-creation programs, reducing last years budget estimate of $942 million to $730 million. The government has cancelled all provincial funding for think tanks and also reduced transfers to incubators such as MaRS in Toronto and Kitchener-Waterloos Communitech. They want to be self-sustaining. We think that should be the goal and we will work with them to make it happen, said an aide to Economic Development Minister Todd Smith. At Agriculture and Rural Affairs, spending on better public health and environment is down by $9.7 million to $79.5 million from last years $89.2 million estimate. In all, the departments budget will be $878 million, a $320-million cut from the $1.2 billion that had been estimated. At Indigenous Affairs, the budget is being reduced from $97.7 million to $69.4 million, with $28.3 million being cut due to the conclusion of one-time investments and planned investments. Programs for seniors affairs are being cut to $24.2 million from last years estimate of $28.9 million. That includes oversight of the Retirement Homes Regulatory Authority to ensure retirement homes are safe. Since Fords budget was released, the cuts just keep coming, said NDP deputy leader John Vanthof. The detailed estimates have confirmed the tally of wreckage so far, and revealed that Doug Ford isnt done swinging his budget axe, hacking away at front-line services, said Vanthof (Timiskaming-Cochrane) Green Leader Mike Schreiner said the Tories fiscal problems are in part due to the decision to continue massive subsidies to electricity rates albeit through the treasury instead of the hydro ratepayers base, as the previous Liberal government did. By adopting these artificial subsidies as their own, the Conservatives lose any claim to fiscal responsibility, said Schreiner. Because of a pension accounting change, the Tories revised last years Liberal $6.7-billion budget shortfall to $11.7 billion, and are projecting deficits of $10.3 billion this fiscal year, $6.8 billion in 2020-21, $5.6 billion in 2021-22, and $3.5 billion in 2022-23 before achieving a surplus in 2023-24. Unlike the Liberals, they opted to no longer count about $11 billion in the government co-sponsored Ontario Public Service Employees Union Pension Plan and the Ontario Teachers Pension Plan as assets on the books. That increases the annual shortfall by as much as $5 billion. Robert Benzie is the Star's Queen's Park bureau chief and a reporter covering Ontario politics. Follow him on Twitter: @robertbenzie Read more about: VANCOUVERBritish Columbias rival parties chopped at each others forestry records on Tuesday, as sparks flew in the legislature. The partisan attacks came roughly a week before Canfor is set to axe jobs in its Mackenzie and Isle Pierre sawmills just the latest in a string of industry layoffs amidst high timber prices and slashed demand. BC Liberal forestry critic John Rustad said the governing New Democrats completely destabilized an industry thats been a backbone of the provinces economy for more than a century. The foundation is now being completely eroded if not completely destabilized, Rustad said in an interview Tuesday. Its still a backbone of much of B.C.s economy. And when it is hurting, communities and workers are hurting. Recent layoffs suggest the pain is real. On April 29, Canfor cancelled nearly three per cent of its output, citing low lumber prices and the high cost of fibre. The firm told Star Vancouver that its having to slow work at every mill in B.C. except one, near Creston. Its just the latest to pull back. Read more: Canfor Corp announces production cuts as supply and price issues continue B.C. forestry company responds to over-logging allegations Other big players including Conifex, Western Forest Products and West Fraser have also slowed operations. Forestry firms have framed this as temporarily curtailing operations. For the more-than dozen B.C. towns that depend on the work, that means job losses. We regret the impact the curtailments will have on our employees, their families and their communities, Canfor spokesperson Michelle Ward said in an email. We appreciate the hard work of our employees and contractors across all of our operations. Doug Donaldson, the Minister of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development, told the Star that external economic forces are largely to blame, particularly a recent slump in the U.S. housing market that has reduced the demand for wood there, and the ongoing softwood lumber trade feud between Ottawa and Washington. Yes there are downward trends in rural areas, he said in an interview last week, after the Canfor cuts. But were intent on bending that curve back up. Donaldson added the job-loss trend is something experienced by many rural towns across the province, not just in the forest sector. And he insisted its a priority for his government. For Rustad, the losses are sad news, but shouldnt be blamed on the logging companies. He said their hands are forced because they have to pay stumpage fees a fee for every tree they harvest from Crown land. This means customers such as home builders are looking elsewhere for better deals, Rustad alleged. The companies are losing money, and this government isnt helping them be competitive, he said. The one thing I would ask the government to do, its the old doctors adage: do no harm. Donaldson countered that much of the trade war between Canada and the U.S. is out of B.C.s hands entirely, but said the province is challenging the unfair and unwarranted duties on softwood lumber from the Trump administration every way it can. That includes appeals at the World Trade Organization and NAFTA, and in court, though he admitted those appeals can take years. To ease the effects of the trade dispute with the U.S., which is Canadas largest buyer, Donaldson says the province is helping the industry expand its sales to Japan, Korea and China. He said they are also ensuring B.C. wood will be used whenever possible in public projects, such as construction work on the Royal Museum of B.C. Rustad said that is simply not enough, and cited several NDP reforms that he said have pushed up B.C. timber prices making them among the most expensive in North America. He blamed the government for worsening the timber market downturn by requiring more private-sector consultation and co-operation with unions and First Nations. Rustad also said provincial red tape was jeopardizing more than 140 years of the forest tenure system the provincial permits that let private companies log public land for instance, requiring B.C. approval if tenure changes hands. Rather than the NDP stepping in with new laws, Rustad said theres a simpler fix: They need to step back. Don Kayne, Canfors CEO, said in a May 2 shareholder call that his firm is working closely with the province on solutions to get B.C.s forestry industry back in a competitive situation, but he singled out proposed legislation, Bill 22, that could make companies logging tenures less stable if passed. According to Werner Antweiler, a resource economist with the University of British Columbia, the softwood-lumber dispute is likely the greatest factor in the industrys woes. Combine that with the construction market becoming sluggish in the U.S., and you have demand dropping, said Antweiler. Companies know the drill they have to insulate themselves against these shocks now, but of course laying off people as a result is very impactful on them. Its a very sad story that were experiencing this softwood lumber crisis over and over; it turns back the clock 20 years and keeps coming back. Rustad questioned whether B.C. is doing enough as the U.S. continues its trade war over timber. He cited a New Brunswick-led Canadian delegation to Washington, D.C. that didnt include B.C. B.C. is the big dog, he said. We make up about 50 per cent of Canadian exports to the U.S., so what we say matters and what we do. We need to be at the table pushing harder, not just relying on industry and court cases. Asked about the job losses, Donaldson admitted the trends have not been very positive in the industry. But he said the solution is to help the industry diversify its markets, to ensure B.C. products are purchased for major public works when possible, to create incentives for more high-value products to be made with B.C. wood locally, and going on trade missions to find buyers elsewhere if the U.S. is pulling away. Were doing everything we can, he said. As a government, we still see a bright future in forestry. Were using all the implements at our disposal. Read more about: HOUSTON, May 09, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Lilis Energy, Inc. (NYSE American: LLEX), an exploration and development company operating in the Permian Basin of West Texas and southeastern New Mexico, today reported financial and operating results for the first quarter of 2019. First Quarter 2019 Highlights Increased net sales production volumes by 75% to 6,058 BOE/d, including a 52% increase in crude oil production to 3,530 BOE/d, for the quarter ended March 31, 2019, as compared to the same period in 2018 Sales volumes were 72% Liquids, including 58% crude oil Significant technical advancements in the third Bone Spring formation and choke management protocol, resulting in improved production rates on previous and recent wells Reduced crude transportation costs from approximately $5.15 per Bbl as of December 31, 2018, to approximately $0.75 per Bbl in March 2019, through continued focus on improvements in infrastructure and sales agreements Realized pricing for March was 93% of WTI, with an approximate $16.50 per barrel increase in realized oil price, as compared to January Realized pricing for the full quarter was 84% of WTI, with projected realized pricing between 90% - 95% in the second quarter Reduced salt-water disposal costs from $4.43 per BOE, for the three months ended March 31, 2018, to $2.98 per BOE as of March 2019, through continued improvements in infrastructure and sales agreements Increased proved reserves by 298% to approximately 44 MMBOE, 68% of which are Liquids (51% oil and 17% NGLs), as of March 31, 2019, as compared to March 31, 2018 Recapitalization completed in the first quarter improved leverage ratios and resulted in a 16% increase in borrowing base from $108 million to $125 million Accelerated capital expenditures to bring new wells to sales in the second and third quarter, with the expectation of realizing the benefits of increased realized pricing, the Company reaffirms cash flow neutrality expected in the second half of 2019 First Quarter 2019 Summary Production for first quarter 2019 was 545,217 barrels of oil equivalent (Boe), or an average of 6,058 Boe per day (Boep/d), an increase of 75% from first quarter 2018. Average daily oil production for first quarter 2019 totaled 3,530 barrels per day (MBop/d), an increase of 52% from first quarter 2018. Natural gas liquids (NGL) and natural gas production for first quarter 2019 totaled 74,446 barrels (Bbls) and 918 million cubic feet (MMcf), representing respective 116% and 122% increases from first quarter 2018. Lilis average realized price for oil, NGLs, and natural gas for first quarter 2019, excluding the effect of commodity derivatives, was $46.28 per Bbl, $19.75 per Bbl, and $1.66 per Mcf, respectively, compared to $60.40 per Bbl, $26.60 per Bbl, and $2.15 per Mcf, respectively, for first quarter 2018. Net loss attributable to common stockholders was $27.5 million, or $0.35 per basic and diluted share, for the three months ended March 31, 2019, compared to a net gain of $10.6 million, or $0.14 per basic and $0.17 per diluted share, for the three months ended March 31, 2018. Total revenue was $17.7 million for the three months ended March 31, 2019, an increase of 23% over the comparable quarter in 2018. The Company generated an adjusted EBITDAX (non-GAAP) of $6.5 million for the quarter, a 45% increase, compared to $4.5 million in the first quarter of 2018. Capital Expenditure Overview The Company continues the strategy of delineating and de-risking its acreage position, further validating the strength of its Delaware Basin position. As a result of the decline in commodity prices in late 2018, the Company reduced drilling and completion activity resulting in a backlog of six drilled but uncompleted (DUC) wells. As a result, the Company decided to front-load a portion of its 2019 capital expenditure budget in the first and second quarter to accelerate the completion of 2018 DUCs, in addition to the 2019 drilling program. In doing so, the Company believes it will maximize production revenues associated with existing DUC wells in the second and third quarters of 2019. The Company believes these completions will coincide with significant uplifts in realized pricing and margin enhancements that will also be recognized during the second and third quarters. During the three months ended March 31, 2019, total capital expenditure cost incurred was $33 million, including $24.5 million related to drilling and completions. Total capital expenditure is comprised of the following: approximately $19 million related to six 2018 DUCs approximately $5.5 million related to the 2019 drilling program approximately $8.9 million related to non-recurring additional capital expenses Non-recurring expenses are expected to provide significant future benefits to the Company, and include notably the Panther pilot well in the eastern acreage, fresh water wells, and new and upgraded facilities with advanced supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) systems production monitoring. While production and revenue are expected to improve as DUCs are turned to sales, management continues to evaluate and closely monitor the 2019 capital program with the goal of continuing to improve capital expenditure returns. Several wells that accounted for significant capital spending during the first quarter have begun flowing to production. Capital spending in the second quarter will focus on completing the remaining DUCs, including the two Kudu wells, which are currently being drilled and completed. The Company remains on track towards cash flow neutrality in the second half of 2019 with its one rig program. However, we are evaluating adding a second rig in the back half of the year as our fundamentals and technology continue to improve. Current Operational Overview Four of the remaining five DUC wells, the Haley 1H, Haley 2H, NW Axis 1H and NE Axis 2H, will be converted to production during the second quarter of 2019. The Haley 1H and Haley 2H began flowing to sales in April 2019, and the NE Axis 2H has finished completion with expected sales in June. Additionally, the two Kudu wells are currently drilling and completing and are expected to be flowing to sales in June. A detailed overview of Lilis current drilling operations and recent well activity can be found in the earnings presentation posted on the Company website. Recent Well Results: Haley #1H Wolfcamp A (1 mile lateral): IP24-hour rate of 1,422 Boepd, 1,124 Bopd (90% liquids, 79% oil), or 317 Boepd per 1,000 lateral ft. Haley #2H Wolfcamp A (1 mile lateral): IP24-hour rate of 1,048 Boepd, 639 Bopd (81% liquids, 61% oil), or 234 Boepd per 1,000 lateral ft. Oso #1H Upper Wolfcamp A (1 mile lateral): The well remains in the clean-up phase and has not reached its peak rate Current 24-hour rate of 910 Boepd, 500 Bopd (65% liquids, 55% oil), with peak rate expected in June Second Quarter 2019 Guidance The strategic decision to front-load a portion of the Companys 2019 capital expenditure budget in the first quarter was made to maximize production revenues, by coinciding the completion of 2018 DUCS and the 2019 new drills with anticipated significant uplifts in realized pricing and margin enhancements. As a result, the Company is increasing its full-year CAPEX guidance to $60 - $70 million. In addition to providing second quarter guidance, the Company is reaffirming full-year guidance metrics and increasing the top end oil production from 4.6 MBbls/d to 4.8 MBbls/d. Second Quarter and Year-end 2019 Guidance 1Q'19A 2Q'19E 2019E Oil Production (MBbls/d) 3.5 3.6 - 3.8 4.2 4.8 NGL Production (MBbls/d) 0.8 0.8 1.0 1.0 1.2 Liquids Production (MBbls/d) 4.3 4.4 4.8 5.2 5.8 Total Capital Expenditure ($MM) (1) $33 $15 $20 $60 $70 (1) Includes non-recurring expenditures of $8.9 million Conference Call Management will host a conference call on Friday, May 10, 2019 at 11:00 a.m. EDT to review financial results and provide an update on corporate developments. Following managements formal remarks, there will be a question and answer session. Participants are asked to preregister for the call through the following link: http://dpregister.com/10131051. Please note that registered participants will receive their dial in number upon registration and will dial directly into the call without delay. Those without internet access or who are unable to pre-register may dial in by calling: 1-844-695-5520 (domestic), 1-412-902-6761 (international). All callers should dial in approximately 10 minutes prior to the scheduled start time and ask to be joined into the Lilis Energy Inc. call. The conference call will also be available through a live webcast, which can be accessed via the following link: https://services.choruscall.com/links/llex190510.html, which is also available through the Companys website at: http://investors.lilisenergy.com/events-presentations. A webcast replay of the call will be available approximately one hour after the end of the call through August 10, 2019. The replay can be accessed through the above links. About Lilis Energy, Inc. Lilis Energy, Inc. is a Houston-based independent oil and gas exploration and production company that operates in the Permians Delaware Basin, considered among the leading resource plays in North America. Lilis current total net acreage in the Permian Basin is over 20,000 acres. Lilis Energy's near-term E&P focus is to grow current reserves and production and pursue strategic acquisitions in its core areas. For more information, please visit www.lilisenergy.com. Forward-Looking Statements: This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws. Such statements are subject to a number of assumptions, risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the control of the Company. These risks include, but are not limited to, our ability to replicate the results described in this release for future wells; the ability to finance our continued exploration, drilling operations and working capital needs; all the other uncertainties, costs and risks involved in exploration and development activities; and the other risks identified in the Companys Annual Report on Form 10-K and its other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Investors are cautioned that any such statements are not guarantees of future performance and that actual results or developments may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements in this press release are made as of the date hereof, and the Company does not undertake any obligation to update the forward-looking statements as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Forward-looking statements regarding expected production levels are based upon our estimates of the successful completion of drilled wells on schedule. Actual sales production rates from our wells can vary considerably from tested initial production (IP) rates and are subject to natural decline rates over the life of the well. Contact: Wobbe Ploegsma V.P. Capital Markets & Investor Relations 210-999-5400, ext. 31 Condensed Consolidated Statement of Operations Information: For Three Months Ended March 31, 2019 2018 ($ in thousands, except share and per share data) Oil and gas revenue $ 17,697 $ 14,395 Operating expenses: Production costs 4,764 3,263 Gathering, processing and transportation 1,178 462 Production taxes 906 850 General and administrative 9,679 10,464 Depreciation, depletion, amortization and accretion 8,153 4,641 Total operating expenses 24,680 19,680 Operating income (loss) (6,983 ) (5,285 ) Other income (expense): Other income (expense) 31 1 Loss from commodity derivative (10,577 ) (1,769 ) Fair value change in derivative instruments (335 ) 28,388 Interest expense (4,828 ) (9,089 ) Total other income (expense) (15,709 ) 17,531 Net loss before income tax (22,692 ) 12,246 Paid-in-kind dividends on preferred stock (4,825 ) (1,652 ) Net income (loss) $ (27,517 ) $ 10,594 Net loss per common share: Basic $ (0.35 ) $ 0.14 Diluted $ (0.35 ) $ (0.17 ) Weighted average common shares outstanding: Basic 77,916,448 54,702,617 Diluted 77,916,448 78,502,197 Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet Information: March 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 ($ in thousands, except share and per share data) Cash and cash equivalents $ 11,228 $ 21,137 Accounts receivables, net of allowance of $25 and $39, respectively 19,288 20,546 Derivative instruments 2,551 Prepaid expenses and other current assets 2,419 1,851 Total current assets 32,935 46,085 Total oil and natural gas properties, net 445,119 430,903 Total assets $ 485,666 $ 480,773 Total current liabilities $ 78,461 $ 76,967 Total long-term liabilities 153,040 217,449 Total liabilities 231,501 294,416 Series C-1 Participating Preferred stock10,000,000 shares authorized, 100,000 shares issued and outstanding with a stated value of $1,007, per share, as of March 31, 2019. 72,021 106,774 Series C-2 Participating Preferred stock10,000,000 shares authorized, 25,000 shares issued and outstanding with a stated value of $1,007, per share, as of March 31, 2019. 16,894 25,522 Series D Participating Preferred stock10,000,000 shares authorized, 39,254 issued and outstanding with a stated value of $1,006, per share, as of March 31, 2019. 26,503 40,729 Series E Convertible Preferred stock 10,000,000 shares authorized, 60,000 issued and outstanding with a stated value of $1,006, per share, as of March 31, 2019 62,486 Series F Participating Preferred stock 10,000,000 shares authorized, 55,000 issued and outstanding with a stated value of $1,007, per share, as of March 31, 2019 47,053 Total stockholders equity (91,037,902 and 71,182,016 shares issued and outstanding as of March 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018, respectively) 29,208 13,332 Total liabilities and stockholders equity $ 485,666 $ 480,773 Condensed Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows Information: Three Months Ended March 31, 2019 2018 ($ in thousands) Net cash provided by (used in): Operating activities $ (10,498 ) $ (4,058 ) Investing activities (28,709 ) (90,289 ) Financing activities 29,298 112,519 It's just enough time to mix a cocktail. Helicopters have been whisking the wealthy from Manhattan to New York's airports for decades. Now the ride costs as little as $195, and you can book it via a smartphone. Back in 2014, when Rob Wiesenthal founded Blade Urban Air Mobility Inc., a chopper ride to John F. Kennedy Airport-13 miles from Manhattan-started at $3,000, he says. Wiesenthal has been able to chop that price after finding efficiencies in fueling, equipment, and scheduling. A new, efficient helicopter model from Bell Helicopter, one of the companies Blade uses to arrange its flights, is key to its continuous, lower-priced service. "You used to have to charter an entire aircraft, and people were using the wrong aircraft for the mission-an expensive, gas-guzzling helicopter," says Will Heyburn, head of corporate development at Blade. By increasing the number of people on each aircraft and operating only between the city and the airports, efficiency has improved steeply. " We're using the most fuel-efficient jet engine that Bell has available,'' Heyburn says. Getting to this price point took about five years. "We began chartering. Then we started testing specific days and times, and this is what was enabled by our partnership with Bell," says Heyburn. "We'd been incrementally lowering the price and testing the way consumers want to fly. Everything came together at the right time." Blade has lowered the price without compromising safety, Wiesenthal says, and his company is the first to add continuous service between LaGuardia and Manhattan's Wall Street Heliport, as well as Newark and the East 34th Street Heliport. The JFK service that Blade started in March will continue from the West 30th Street Heliport across from Hudson Yards. Blade sees those commutes as the pain points for its client base: Traveling from the East Side of Manhattan to Newark or from the West Side to an outer borough airport most often means battling maddening city traffic. Flights leave multiple times an hour. "We're seeing faster-than-expected adoption by people choosing to fly to the airport rather than driving,'' Wiesenthal says. Over 75 percent of first-time customers have never flown in a helicopter before, and 22 percent of fliers to JFK have come back in the same month, according to Blade. The regularly scheduled continuous service is significant, because it makes it easier to hop a ride or to be flexible in your timing. It also allows Blade to lower the price because, unlike charters, helicopters more reliably carry passengers in both directions, minimizing wasted resources. "Everything else has been charters," says Brian Tolbert, manager of the Downtown Manhattan Heliport, who started working in the chartered helicopter business in 1986. "Blade is the first continuously scheduled service." The new service is "for someone who works in Midtown, has lunch at a great restaurant at Hudson Yards, and walks across the street at 1:30 p.m. and makes a 3:30 p.m. flight," Wiesenthal suggests. The average age of Blade's clients is 38, and 55 percent of them are men; 95 percent of customers book on the mobile app. "The biggest misconception is: This is not affordable for me,'' says Wiesenthal. "We cut our teeth on the most demanding fliers,'' he continues, although in three to five years, he'd consider lowering the price from $195 to the $70-to-$90 range. Blade doesn't own its helicopters. It partners with Airbus SE, Lockheed Martin Corp., and Bell Helicopter Textron Inc. to arrange flights through more than 30 aviation operators, which provide pilots. Flights go every 20 minutes or so, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m, Monday through Friday, and on Sunday afternoons and evenings. If you show up early, you can be put on an earlier flight. If your intended plane flight is delayed, you'll automatically be put on a new helicopter, free. It flies the Bell 206L-4 single-engine helicopter, which has a better safety record than the average twin-engine helicopter, according to the company. Flights to JFK land on Sheltair's 4.5-acre plot on the loop of the main access road. Complimentary ground transportation in a black SUV to all commercial airline terminals is included. The farthest drive to a commercial terminal is American Airlines at Terminal 8, which takes three minutes, absent heavy traffic. For $150, an American Airlines representative will meet you after your helicopter arrives and transport you, via Cadillac, to expedited TSA screening; for $350 they'll meet your plane and do the reverse, escorting you through baggage claim and onward to the helicopter. Add $85 for flexible tickets, $75 weather insurance (for a cash refund, instead of a Blade credit), $85 for bags heavier than 20 pounds, $250 for luggage pickup up to two hours before your flights, $100 for meet and greet, and you're easily nearing $800. But many business travelers don't need such contingencies. The JFK service breaks even for Blade when two to three people populate a flight that can accommodate six, which has been happening, Wiesenthal says. A potential competitor, Uber Inc., is working on a product called Uber Air with partners that include Bell Helicopter and Aurora Flight Sciences, a Boeing subsidiary. "Dallas and Los Angeles will be the first to offer Uber Air flights, with the goal of beginning demonstrator flights in 2020 and commercial operations in 2023," says Uber spokesman Matthew Wing. As for UberX, the company's lowest-cost private car service, fares to the airport cost less than $200. Blade's most recent round of funding was led by Airbus SE, Tom Barrack's Colony Capital Inc., and Kenneth Lerer's Lerer Hippeau Ventures. Eric Schmidt, the former CEO of Alphabet Inc., Barry Diller, chairman and senior executive of IAC Inc., and David Zaslav, chairman and CEO of Discovery Networks, are also backers. Such use of helicopters in New York dates from 1965, when they were used to circulate between the roof of the MetLife Building (then the Pan Am Building) and JFK's Pan Am terminal, until 1968. It resumed briefly in 1977, until in May of that year a New York Airways helicopter strut broke while idling, tipping the aircraft over; the rotor blades killed passengers waiting to board on the helipad, and falling shrapnel killed a pedestrian on the street far below. By 2010, helicopters were making 80,000 takeoffs from New York, according to the Economic Development Corp. Flash forward to now, when more than 160 million people a year go to and from airports surrounding the city. The average ground speed in New York over the past decade has plunged, from 11 mph to 7.8 mph. "That adds up,'' Wiesenthal says. Chevron Corp. Chief Executive Officer Mike Wirth's decision to abandon his $33 billion offer for Anadarko Petroleum Corp. bolsters his reputation as one of the oil industry's consummate financial disciplinarians. Anadarko was looking for Chevron to beat or at least match Occidental Petroleum Corp.'s $38 billion proposal, people familiar with the matter said Wednesday. But Wirth, whose deputies already had held integration meetings with counterparts at Anadarko, declined to escalate the bidding war and bowed out on Thursday. "Make no mistake about it, we had the financial capacity to easily outbid Occidental," Wirth said in an interview. "But an increased offer would have eroded value to our shareholders and would have diminished returns on our capital. We're serious about being disciplined." The decision to cede Anadarko to a rival one-fifth of its size would have been unthinkable even five years ago, in the heady days of $100 a barrel oil when the world's largest energy companies were focused on growth at almost any cost. But the crude price collapse, ascendance of of shale and a recognition that big deals often destroy shareholder value has changed Big Oil's mindset. To underscore the fact, Chevron won't use its $1 billion deal break fee to build a war chest for another takeover. Instead the supermajor will buy back shares in an unexciting but shareholder-friendly move. Chevron was best-performing oil stock in the S&P 500 Index with a 2.5 percent gain. "We have no intention to do an acquisition unless it's exceptionally good," Wirth said. In withdrawing Chevron's bid for the Texas-based crude explorer, Wirth is hewing to the tightfisted investment ethos that has been the defining characteristic of his 19-year run in senior management at the company. The University of Colorado-trained engineer and Chevron lifer rose through the ranks of the company's sprawling, worldwide oil-refining division before succeeding John Watson as CEO in early 2018. As refining boss and one of Watson's top lieutenants, Wirth divested underperforming plants and quit entire markets to improve profits, a model that was subsequently adapted to Chevron's crude and natural gas unit with similar results. "I came up through the downstream side of our business where I always believed that margins would be lower next year than they are this year and nothing you could do to control that," he said in a February interview. "You make your own margin." Although acquiring Anadarko would have elevated Chevron's output into the realm of behemoths Exxon Mobil and Royal Dutch Shell, the combination may have challenged Wirth's commitment to his self-stated primary goals: expanding dividends and limiting debt. "Chevron just demonstrated its commitment to capital discipline and conservative financial policies by declining to enter a bidding war for Anadarko," said Pete Speer, a senior vice president at Moody's Investors Service. "While it has the financial capacity to match Occidental Petroleum's offer, had it raised the cash portion of the consideration to compete with Oxy it would have materially increased its financial leverage and weakened its credit profile." Under Wirth's leadership, Chevron's return on equity surpassed that of Exxon, long the gold-standard of oil producers. On another key performance metric called the recycle ratio, Chevron also trumps its larger rival. Since his promotion to CEO last year, Chevron has surprised Wall Street analysts with better-than-forecast profits in four out of five quarters. In capitulating to Occidental, whose CEO Vicki Hollub has coveted Anadarko for the better part of two years, Wirth may have concluded paying a higher price would have been too corrosive to returns on the investment. The target company's daily output equivalent to 666,000 would have immediately lifted Chevron global production by about 20 percent to 3.6 million, close to that of Exxon and Shell, according to data compiled by Bloomberg. "Growth is an outcome. It's not an objective," Wirth said in the February interview. "The objective is to deliver strong returns to our shareholders." - - - Bloomberg's Rachel Adams-Heard contributed. While Novartis bets on cutting-edge science in pursuit of the next breakthrough drugs, its deal to pay as much as $5.3 billion for an eye medicine adds a less risky and more predictable product to its futuristic lineup. In buying Xiidra from Takeda Pharmaceutical Co., the Swiss pharma giant gains a drug that's forecast to become a blockbuster. With about $400 million in sales last year, Xiidra treats a condition known as dry-eye that may affect more than 30 million people in the U.S. The disease can hinder daily activities like reading and driving and permanently damage vision if untreated. That injects some certainty into Novartis's stable of drugs at a time when it's advancing into uncharted territory for big pharma -- complex treatments that aim to fix the root causes of a host of devastating illnesses. Cell and gene therapies are among novel approaches that come with dramatic results for patients, along with doubts surrounding the long-term benefits and business model. But investors are questioning the price it's paying for Xiidra. "It's lovely cash flow. It grows the top line. No one disputes the drug works," said Ketan Patel, a fund manager and Novartis shareholder at Edentree Investment Management in London. "But did you have to pay an extraordinary amount of money to get it?" Novartis will need to significantly boost the drug's sales over the next several years to justify the price tag, he said. Excluding the $1.9 billion of potential milestone payments, the $3.4 billion Novartis is shelling out upfront values Xiidra at 8.5 times 2018 sales, "a big price tag given market dynamics," according to Sam Fazeli, a Bloomberg Intelligence analyst. Allergan's competing blockbuster Restasis is set to face cheaper generic copies in the second half of the year, Fazeli said. Xiidra could rack up peak sales of as much as $1.4 billion, according to Elizabeth Krutoholow at Bloomberg Intelligence. Xiidra, which inhibits inflammation, is the first dry-eye treatment approved for both the signs and symptoms of the condition and has demonstrated additional benefits in late-stage studies, according to Basel, Switzerland-based Novartis. The company also will get about 400 employees tied to the drug. Bloomberg reported the potential sale on Wednesday. The first milestone payment would be due once Xiidra hits annual sales of $1.2 billion. Novartis believes it can turn the eye-drop treatment into a blockbuster, and "we feel there's very little risk for us on that journey," Paul Hudson, head of its pharmaceutical business, said in an interview. Under Chief Executive Officer Vas Narasimhan, Novartis has sharpened its focus on innovative drugs for cancer and rare illnesses. These include Zolgensma, a gene therapy expected to get approval this month to treat a devastating muscle disease. The company has split with contact-lens and surgical-products division Alcon, ditched a stake in a consumer-health venture and carried out three crucial acquisitions in his first year at the helm. Narasimhan said in an interview last month that he plans to spend an amount equivalent to more than $10 billion a year on acquisitions and is scouting medicines outside the company, concentrating mainly on nervous system, eye and metabolic illnesses. Novartis said in April that it expects to launch its drug brolucizumab, a treatment for a form of blindness, by the end of this year. The company has said it's developing gene therapies, next-generation drugs and other technologies for an array of eye diseases. Xiidra fits into that business well, Hudson said. "I've been looking at this medicine enviously from the sidelines since its launch," he said. U.S. prescriptions for dry-eye are forecast to climb as an aging population, prolonged device time and the use of contact lenses increases the incidence of the condition, the company said in a presentation. Novartis said it will now look at opportunities to expand the treatment beyond the U.S. and Canada. Description GIS - 09 May, 2019: The Prime Minister, Minister of Home Affairs, External Communications and National Development Unit, Minister of Finance and Economic Development, Mr Pravind Kumar Jugnauth, met, this afternoon, key stakeholders of the Business community in the context of the third pre-budget consultations 2019/2020, at the Conference Room, New Treasury Building, in Port Louis. Key representatives from the following organisations were present: Business Mauritius; Mauritius Chamber of Commerce and Industry; Association of Mauritian Manufacturers; Mauritius Export Association; Mauritius Bankers Association Limited; Association des Hoteliers et Restaurateurs Ile Maurice; Insurers Association of Mauritius; Outsourcing and Telecommunications Association of Mauritius; and Building and Civil Engineering Contractors Association. Several proposals were raised with regards to improving the business climate in Mauritius, which included amongst others: implementing effective regulatory frameworks; managing employment relations and Human Resource development as well as tackling the issue of skills mismatch; encouraging Open Data initiatives and modern policy making; increasing training facilities for local manpower; streamline the procedures for importing foreign expertise; improving environmental sustainability; promoting digitalisation of the economy through latest technologies; and providing continued support to Small and Medium Enterprises. The representatives expressed their concerns regarding particular sectors namely tourism, cane industry, financial services and construction which, according to them, necessitate a boost and immediate action for their sustainability vis-a-vis the Mauritian economy. Issues of common interests were discussed pertaining to the Africa Strategy. The need for consolidating diplomatic footprint in Africa for increased visibility on the Africa strategy framework to consolidate regional cooperation was also raised. In a statement after the meeting, Prime Minister Jugnauth reassured the business community that special attention will be given to the proposals based on the social, economic and environmental aspects of the economy. He reiterated Governments engagement towards addressing the challenges faced by the local businesses in a bid to boost the economic performance of Mauritius in the global business world. PHOENIX - Cindy McCain's new house is a lot like her new life: a place for family, for comfort, and for honoring her late husband. The center of the house is a big hug of a room with a widescreen TV, sprawling old couch, huge fireplace and a wall of custom shelves holding awards and mementos. Photos cover the walls and tables, with more stacked on the floor waiting to be hung. On the hearth sits a bronzed pair of shoes with holes in the soles that John McCain wore during his first congressional campaign in 1982. The conventional advice for a new widow is to avoid big moves in the first year, but Cindy bought this place a couple months after he died last August at age 81. It's just a block from her childhood home, where she and John raised their four children. They sold that house after the kids left and moved into a luxury condo overlooking Phoenix. Facing the next chapter of her life without John, Cindy purchased this French-country style home, inextricably intertwining her future and past. "This neighborhood is very comforting to me and I feel very secure here," she says. "This is where I went to school, where I grew up, where I learned to drive." When she told John - in one of the intimate moments they had before he died of brain cancer - that she was thinking of moving back, he was all for it. She's still not quite settled in, more a result of her travel schedule than grief: Speeches in New York, Davos and Munich, election monitoring in Ukraine, chairing the McCain Institute for International Leadership in Washington. Last week, she was inducted into the Arizona Women's Hall of Fame. This month, she'll receive two honorary degrees, celebrate her 65th birthday and mark what would have been her 39th wedding anniversary. "The last thing that John would have wanted me to do was just to sit here alone and cry - and mind you, I've had my moments," she says. "One thing he taught me, among so many things, was the importance of getting back up, the importance of keeping doing what you've been doing. I've been doing these things all along. I think the reason people are noticing now is because he's gone." Gone and yet not gone. The McCain legacy looms large, so much so that Republicans continue to praise his service and statesmanship even as President Donald Trump obsessively punches at his ghost. Before, Cindy was the elegant if aloof political spouse, standing on the side while her husband held the spotlight. Now she doesn't have to worry about saying something that could damage her husband's political career - and, despite the sadness of the past two years, she is a woman at ease with herself. "You hit a certain age - women do, at least in my opinion - where you're going to say what you think and not hold back," she says. "For so many people, especially political wives, you have to be careful and remind yourself that you can't say exactly what's on your mind. I'm not saying that I've become rude, but I think the issues are important and it's easier for me to stand up to somebody now and say, 'No, you're wrong on that.' " Cindy is now the keeper of John's flame, a surrogate for her husband's vision, values and principles for a fractured Republican Party. "You're basically seeing her come into her own," says Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., who remains a close friend of the family despite his vocal support of Trump. "The truth of the matter is that John's political profile and John's work cast a large shadow. He was incredibly proud of Cindy and tried to help her as much as he could, but the fact is that Cindy has the stage now differently than she did before." --- She was never an actual first lady, but Cindy McCain has one of the highest profiles of any political spouse. She was married to a congressman, then senator and two-time Republican presidential candidate for almost four decades - after a brief courtship during which John pretended to be younger and Cindy pretended to be older. They discovered the 18-year age difference (he was 43, she was 25) when they applied for their marriage license and wed in 1980. She was his second wife and the catalyst for his second career. After years in the Navy and as a prisoner of war, John moved to Cindy's native Arizona and realized his political ambitions thanks to his charisma, military valor and Cindy's family fortune. Her father owned an Anheuser-Busch distributorship, a business that she inherited and still owns; her wealth (an estimated $200 million today) allowed the McCain family to devote their lives to politics. The couple decided to raise their children in Phoenix, treating John's time in Washington as a weekly deployment. He came home almost every weekend and congressional breaks, and the family usually retreated to their beloved ranch, Hidden Valley, near Sedona. It was, and remains, the place of their happiest memories. The kids grew up, John's Senate career made him even more famous and Cindy quietly pursued her life as a businesswoman and advocate. There were challenges: She overcame both a mild stroke and a prescription drug addiction, as well as two bruising, unsuccessful presidential campaigns. But it was, according to close friends, a love match of two equally restless, independent people. The McCains became royalty of the Republican Party. So it was shocking to just about everyone in politics when Trump insulted John's years as prisoner in Vietnam ("He's not a war hero ... I like people who weren't captured.") and continued the attacks after John's cancer diagnosis in 2017. The contempt between the two men was so great that the president did not utter the McCain name when he signed a defense-spending bill named in John's honor. Trump was pointedly not invited to the funerals last year in Phoenix or Washington. The president has continued to disparage the late senator, decrying his health-care vote, his academic record, his views on Russian election interference. "I was never a fan of John McCain, and I never will be," Trump told reporters. Two months ago, the McCains' daughter Meghan, a co-host on "The View," laced into Trump: "Listen, he spends his weekend obsessing over great men because he knows it, and I know it, and all of you know it: He will never be a great man." Cindy, who says she did not vote for Trump in the 2016 election, has never responded directly to the president. "I don't intend to," she says. "And not because I'm angry about anything. I'm not. My job is my family, and what I'm concerned about is whether or not they're happy, whether everyone's got their lives together, whether they need anything. I've not thought about responding." It's a diplomatic and a measured answer - not unlike the woman herself - if hardly plausible. The McCain Institute, however, has not only thought about responding but asked supporters to "protect John's legacy" by donating to the nonprofit. "The search is on for people who serve causes greater than themselves," tweeted Cindy last year. "Join the movement." But she did respond to a hater in March after receiving a vile Facebook message shortly after yet another Trump attack. "Your husband was a traitorous piece of warmongering s--- and I'm glad he's dead," the woman wrote. "Hope your Miss Piggy looking daughter chokes to death on the next burger she stuffs down her fat neck too ...," ending the missive with a vulgar epithet. Above an image of the woman's message, including her name, Cindy tweeted: "I want to make sure all of you could see how kind and loving a stranger can be. I'm posting her note for her family and friends could see." It was, Cindy had decided, "enough. I mean, seriously? You take it upon yourself anonymously to send me this garbage? So I thought 'OK, game on. Let's do it.' I lit her up and I'd do it again." Despite all of this - which is a lot, even for someone familiar with the darker side of politics - she considers herself a loyal Republican, "a Reagan conservative, a little more liberal on some of the social issues. ... I believe in what we stand for when we're together as a party and functioning the way we should." But those hoping she'll lead the resistance against Trump have the wrong woman. She is the only child of a "very Southern" mother who preached restraint even as her Western father confidently handed her the family business. The combination is self-sufficient but not showy - which means she sees no value in engaging in a public fight with the president. "You know the expression 'Cowgirl Up?' Cindy cowgirls up," says former Sen. Heidi Heitkamp, D-N.D. For non-cowgirls, the term means getting the job done, jumping back on the horse if it throws you, and moving on. Cindy describes herself as someone who likes issues more than politics - close friends call her a pragmatist more interested in solving problems than debating them. And yet her oldest child, Meghan, has become a famous conservative pundit. "We used to joke when Meghan was a little girl that she was John McCain in a dress because she is just like him," Cindy says, with a knowing laugh - calling her daughter tenacious, smart, driven, impatient and opinionated. She extends the same familial generosity to Graham, despite his staunch and unfailing support for Trump. "I would love him regardless of what he did," she says. "He's part of our family. That's doesn't affect our friendship at all." Graham, who says he "adores" Cindy, explains that they "have a mutual desire to make sure that John McCain's legacy is honored and defended." And his support for the president? "Cindy completely understands that my job as a senator from South Carolina, where Trump is popular, is to represent my state's interest but also to be a voice for the things that matter to her, me, Sen. McCain and the country." During the congressional spring break last month, the two traveled to Tunisia and Rwanda to work against human trafficking. Another dear friend: Joe Biden, who was one of the speakers at John's funeral in Arizona, was, perhaps, the person most helpful to Meghan and to Cindy during John's illness, using his own experience with his son's cancer to guide them through. But last month, Cindy denied reports that she would endorse Biden and announced she would not campaign for him. "I think what's best for me is to not just stay out of it, but make my own self happy. And presidential politics is combat," she says. "Right now, I don't have any intention of doing anything." As for herself, she never gave elected office any real consideration; her name was tossed around to fill John's seat but she and Republican Gov. Doug Ducey never sat down to talk about it. "I think I can be just as effective in other ways," she says. "I like doing what I'm doing." --- Of all her human rights projects, none has captivated Cindy quite like the issue of human trafficking. She taught herself everything she could about the problem, travels around the globe to educate people, and is relentless in her quest to put a stop to it. She traces her obsession back to a trip to India, where she had gone to see the grave of Mother Teresa. She stepped into a small shop to buy sari material for her younger daughter, Bridget - who was adopted from Bangladesh - and noticed children staring up from underneath the floorboards. Something felt off. She says she was later told by locals that children were probably for sale. "I walked out of there and got on my nice airplane, came to my nice house with my nice family, and I didn't do anything," she says. "It haunted me. I see these kids from my own children's eyes and it's like, 'There by the grace of God go mine.' " She decided she needed to figure out what was happening, and then figure out a way to stop it. "Cindy is just fearless," says Josette Sheeran, a McCain Institute board member who worked with her on food programs in Congo. She brought her business background to the task: research, resources, problem-solving. The goal is to prevent both sex trafficking and slave labor of minors - runaways, homeless kids, those easiest to exploit. She publicized the issue when Arizona hosted its second Super Bowl and successfully lobbied for a Phoenix law allowing police to seize cars from men caught hiring prostitutes. She got the topic on the roster at the Munich Security Conference and the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, this year. About the same time, she thought she spotted a child being trafficked at the Phoenix airport and alerted the police. "It was a woman with a child and the child was reacting horrifically," she says. "This child was terrified, kicking and screaming. There was something wrong." The police determined there was no evidence of criminal conduct or child endangerment, but not before Cindy described the incident on the radio, was excoriated on Twitter and forced to apologize. "I got carried away," she says. "I made a mistake because I believed that's what happened. As it turned out, it was not. But I don't want to discourage people from saying something if they see something." --- The entire family was at the ranch the day John died - Cindy, John's three children from his first marriage and his four with Cindy. His bed was pushed out on the patio overlooking the land he loved. Sinatra's "My Way" was on the playlist. A hawk flew across the house and planted in a tree not far from him. "He heard the music, he saw the hawk, and he passed," Cindy says. "He totally was in charge, and I mean this in the most loving way." And now, life without him. Cindy has just received news that their eldest son, Jack, finished his final deployment in Afghanistan and is safely in Qatar. Younger son, Jimmy, and his wife are expecting a baby boy in August, close to John's birthday. John's mother, Roberta, is doing well at 107 years old. "If there's one thing about the McCain clan: We're strong," Cindy says. "It has not been without its bumps, obviously, these past few months. But we know John's watching us, and we know he's going to remind us when we're not doing things right. We want his legacy to go on." Before he died, John asked for one last thing: Every year, around the anniversary of his death, "Why don't you just have a party, play my playlist, and everyone enjoy themselves?" So that's what the McCains will do. And then Cindy will go back to work. By PETER HANCOCK Capitol News Illinois phancock@capitolnewsillinois.com SPRINGFIELD The Illinois Senate on Wednesday passed and sent to Gov. J.B. Pritzker a bill that would allow undocumented immigrants to receive state-funded student financial aid to attend college. House Bill 2691, known as the Retaining Illinois Students and Equity, or RISE Act, passed the House on April 11. It also would extend eligibility for the states Monetary Award Program, or MAP grants, to certain transgender individuals who are disqualified from state or federal financial aid because they have not registered for the draft. Just because someone is undocumented doesnt mean they arent members of our society. It doesnt mean that they dont contribute to our society, Sen. Omar Aquino, a Chicago Democrat and lead sponsor of the bill in the Senate, said during floor debate. Undocumented families in Illinois are Illinois families. They are Illinois residents that pay taxes taxes that actually, because they are undocumented, they are not able to receive the return on those taxes back to them. But the idea provoked strong opposition from Republicans, who argued that expanding the pool of students who are eligible for MAP grants by allowing noncitizens to receive them would crowd out legal citizens from getting them. Ladies and gentlemen, the math is simple, Sen. Jim Oberweis, a Sugar Grove Republican, said. Each and every one of us have students in our districts who are relying on MAP funding. If were going to take some of that funding away from our citizens and give it to noncitizens, that means were depriving some of our citizens, some of our students, from being able to have that funding to help with their education. This is just absolutely, fundamentally wrong. Aquino conceded Illinois does not fully fund the MAP grant program, saying grants are awarded on a first-come-first-served basis, and there are often more applicants than there are grant funds to go around. But he said that issue is separate from the issue of eligibility. Id love to leave here at the end of this session saying we fully funded MAP. I would love that, Aquino said. But thats not this bill. This bill just opens up opportunities to students to have the option to be a college student and hopefully get a degree. Other Democrats argued that extending eligibility for the grants would benefit the state at-large. As you know, these students are already enrolled in college, said Sen. Iris Martinez, also of Chicago. They are looking at professional careers. These are the future doctors, our future nurses, our future professors. These are individuals who are right now getting a profession and will someday be serving us. Let it be in the health field, let it be in education. The bill also eliminates one of the rules for students to continue their eligibility for the grants beyond their sophomore year. Under current rules, students who have received MAP funding for 75 credit hours must qualify as a junior in their degree program to be eligible to continue. Critics of that rule, however, have said it works against students from disadvantaged backgrounds and low-income communities, particularly students of color, who often need to take remedial courses early in their college careers before they can handle regular college-level classes. The bill passed the Senate on a vote of 35-to-15, and will head to Gov. Pritzker. It's pretty normal for a caregiver to check the sky for rain before taking the kids outside to play. Delores McGee, however, checks for gunfire. "We hear gunfire all day long here," said McGee, at the Emergent Preparatory Academy, a day care center in the District of Columbia where the parking lot has a little memorial of faded silk flowers and a washed-out stuffed animal to a young man gunned down there months ago. Even so, McGee used to be able to take about a dozen kids at a time - all between 2 and 4 years old, walking in line holding a rope, like little fish - one block over to a local elementary school's playground in the Southeast Washington area. That gave them two hours of safe, outdoor play, tucked behind a building and away from the car chases, police sirens and gunfire of one of the most stubbornly dangerous parts of the nation's capital. There were five homicides and 34 nonfatal shootings within about 2,000 feet of the little preschool over the past year, according to crime statistics. But that building has been turned into a workforce development center, and the guards there told McGee and her teachers children weren't welcome on the campus anymore. I called that area's city council member, Trayon White Sr., D-Ward 8, and D.C. public schools. I'm still waiting for an explanation. Over in Northwest Washington, Cynthia Davis is also looking for playground space for her day care kids, and she has a theory on why it's becoming harder. "All this security and liability talk? It's hurting the most vulnerable children, the ones we're supposed to help," she said. For 15 years, Davis has run a home-based day care in the Petworth area in Northwest Washington. She's always relied on the nearby school playground to give them a good outing. "To run a quality program, you need to be able to get these kids out on the fresh air for one to two hours a day," Davis said. "And we were getting that. The teachers were fine, the principal was fine with it. We weren't bothering anybody." But recently, school administrators told her they can't let her use the playground anymore "for liability reasons," she said. "I showed them my insurance, all the liability is on me, not them." That was not enough. The local schools put locks on their playground fences. The nearest public park is too far for the little ones to walk. And, like McGee, she'd have to herd the children across a large and busy thoroughfare. "Sometimes, I just have them play on the porch because it's the best we can do," she said. In a nation increasingly appalled - or worse not appalled - by the horrific school shootings that have become an American ritual, there are still forgotten pockets filled with forgotten children where gunfire is ever present. The search for a safe place to play is ever present too. In D.C. so far this year, a 16-year-old was killed by gunfire and more than half a dozen children - including two young brothers shot weeks apart outside their home - have been wounded by people wielding guns. I spoke with Cierra Dobbs, a teaching assistant at Emergent, as she tried to make the cramped, exposed parking lot work as a makeshift playground. She longed to return to the former elementary school. "It was so good for them to have that space to play," Dobbs said. "At a real playground, they build different muscles and skills. And they learn social things, like how to take turns." A ball soared over the chain-link fence that separated us. "Can you toss that back to us?" she asked. "And then one day, a man stood in front of us and said we can't be bringing kids there anymore. And now all we have is this," she said, spreading her arms out to cover a roughly 20-foot square of pavement surrounded by a chain-link fence, next to the building's HVAC system. The kids threw balls and chased each other around the tiny space. The teaching assistants kept an eye on the street, checking for the telltale shouts and tire squeals that are sometimes punctuated with gunshots. The loss of school playgrounds is tragic for places like this because they are the centers in the poorest parts of the city, where playgrounds are less plentiful and schools are usually the only places where a playground was designed as a safe haven. "Anywhere else they go is out in the open, where kids are vulnerable," McGee said. So why don't they just move? "The children are here," McGee said. True that. Ward 8 has the largest population of children under 5 in the city, between two and four times as much as some other wards, according to the Annie E. Casey Foundation's data. "The need is here. These children are forgotten. And leaving their community means leaving them." But their own neighborhood is hard on them. "One of our little ones, 2 years old, was shot after school, at home on the family's porch," McGee said. "These kids are in danger every time they are outside here. But the law says you have to get them outside for two hour of fresh air every day. And the truth is, I just can't do it every day. It's not safe." So she looks at that parking lot again and wonders if she can get soft mats to make the edges of the curbs safer. Or can she fit some equipment there. Every few days, the mother of that 18-year-old killed in that parking lot brings her lawn chair and just sits and sits with the little memorial. McGee looks at her. She knows the kids in her day care - in this part of the city - deserve better. President Donald Trump has long wanted the 2015 nuclear deal with Iran to fall apart. He got one step closer to that on Wednesday, when Iran warned European nations it's ready to quit the accord in 60 days if it doesn't start seeing greater economic benefits from the agreement. American officials didn't gloat over Iran's announcement, but the move appeared to play into their hands. Officials in the U.K. and Germany, two partners in the nuclear deal, were immediately pressed on whether they would side with Washington or Tehran if the Iranian threat to stop observing limits on uranium enrichment is carried out. "It's going to force the Europeans to make a decision about how far they're willing to go to back the Iranians," said Henry Rome, an Iran analyst at the Eurasia Group. "It turns Iran into the offending actor and shifts the focus from what was the U.S. has been doing. There will have to be a reckoning." The U.S. sought to keep up the pressure -- and undermine European efforts to sustain the deal -- by announcing fresh sanctions on Wednesday targeting Iran's copper, iron, steel and aluminum sectors and saying still more restrictions could be coming. While Iran could be bluffing, the U.S. action make it even harder for European leaders to meet Tehran's two-month deadline. Standing alongside U.S. Secretary of State Michael Pompeo in London on Wednesday, British Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt said the U.K. still sees the agreement as the best way to keep the Islamic Republic from getting a nuclear weapon. "There will of course be consequences" if Iran breaks its commitments, Hunt said. "As long as Iran keeps its commitments, so will the U.K." Yet privately, European diplomats who have long strained to keep the deal alive despite American pressure fret that the back and forth playing out now will result in the death of the agreement. German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas told a meeting of lawmakers on Wednesday that he expects Iran to withdraw from the accord, according to a person who was present and asked not to be identified discussing private conversations. Speaking to reporters in London, Pompeo said he wants to see what President Hassan Rouhani's government actually does after the 60-day period expires. But he later issued a statement accusing Tehran of making "a blatant attempt to hold the world hostage" and vowed to continue Washington's "maximum pressure" campaign. That campaign helped shrink Iran's economy by about 4% last year, and may fuel a 6% decline in GDP this year, according to the International Monetary Fund, prompting the government to scale back its military spending as oil sales fall. That's a foreign policy win from the White House's perspective. At the same time, U.S. rhetoric and military moves have alarmed many nations, some of which see parallels with the buildup to the 2003 war in Iraq. Over the weekend, the White House said it was expediting the deployment of the USS Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group to the Middle East in response to what it called "troubling and escalatory indications and warnings" from Iran. The deployment wasn't just posturing, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff told senators on Wednesday, saying there was an urgent threat from Tehran. "We sent some messages on Friday to make sure that it was clear to Iran that we recognize the threat and we were postured to respond to the threat," Gen. Joseph Dunford said at a Senate hearing. "Our focus over the weekend was to deter." American officials say they remain open to talks with the Iranian government and aren't seeking regime change. Trump issued a statement Wednesday saying that, despite the latest round of sanctions, he looks forward to "someday meeting with the leaders of Iran in order to work out an agreement" and "give Iran the future it deserves." Pompeo has been less sanguine. In a podcast interview with Michael Morell, a former deputy director of the CIA, Pompeo said he doubts Rouhani's government can bring about the political changes the U.S. is demanding, such as an end to support for Houthi rebels in Yemen and the designated terrorist group Hezbollah, which is based in Lebanon. "I think what can change is the people can change the government," Pompeo said. "I don't see Rouhani changing, Zarif changing. They are who they are," he added, referring to Iran's foreign minister, Mohammad Zarif. Yet U.S. sanctions from Cuba and Venezuela to Syria and Russia have repeatedly failed to force changes in behavior or dislodge governments opposed to Washington. And some analysts warned that Iran has surely thought through the consequences of a potential withdrawal. "It is crucial that we not underestimate the Iranians," said Kamran Bokhari, director at the Center for Global Policy and a non-resident scholar at the Arabia Foundation. There are other risks to Trump's approach as well, especially after he campaigned for the presidency on promises to extract the U.S. from endless Middle East conflicts. The president and his team may be stoking tensions publicly without really intending to start a war. Yet higher tensions raise the risk of an accident, misunderstanding or relatively minor incident leading to a bigger conflagration. "If they dump JCPOA they lose Europe and then it's a question of how severely escalating tensions with Iran are managed," Michael Stephens, a researcher for Middle East Studies at the Royal United Services Institute in London, said of Iran's decision-making, referring to the nuclear agreement by its initials. "The question is how we stop the drift toward conflict." - - - Bloomberg's Birgit Jennen, Patrick Donahue, Ladane Nasseri, Tim Ross and Tony Capaccio contributed. JERSEYVILLE Two local organizations have been rewarding customers of small businesses to celebrate Small Business Week. The Jersey County Business Association (JCBA) and Jersey State Bank have both been surprising unsuspecting customers with gift certificates, flowers, cookies and other prizes. The JCBA has been visiting their member businesses, looking for unsuspecting shoppers to surprise with JCBA Gift Certificates and other prizes. Jersey State Bank has been sending employees to local establishments to help customers pay for their purchases. On Tuesday, for instance they were at Redbird Deli in Jerseyville, helping people pay for their lunch. Both organizations have encouraged shoppers to use #ShopSmallJerseyville on social media to help spread the word. Jersey State Bank Marketing Director Laura Stemm said the Bank wanted to do something to show their appreciation to local businesses and their customers. She said, We are thankful for small businesses, and our small businesses are a big part of why we can operate successfully in this community. We wanted to reward the customers of our local establishments for helping to shop small and keep their hard earned money in our community. Beth Bear, Director at the JCBA, echoed Stemms sentiment, and said, It can be easy to forget how rewarding it is to shop local. We all lead very full lives, and sometimes it can seem more convenient to order something online. But for me, it only takes a trip to Sinclairs or Lula Bells, for instance, to be reminded how enjoyable and quick it is to find what I need locally, at a fair price, and where I am helped by friendly and knowledgeable staff. Coincidentally, one of the JCBAs winners for the Prize Patrol at Jerseyville Banking Center was also a recipient of help with her lunch from Jersey State Bank at Redbird Deli the day before. Linda Raymond happened to be in the right place at the right time for two days in a row. For more than 50 years, our U.S. President has issued a proclamation announcing National Small Business Week, which recognizes the critical contributions of Americas entrepreneurs and small business owners. This years dates are May 5-11, 2019. More than half of Americans either own or work for a small business, and they create about two out of every three new jobs in the U.S. each year. He made the statement at an open discussion conducted by the UN Security Council on May 7 with the topic "Investing in peace: Training and building quality capacity to enhance safety, security and efficiency enforcement for the UN peacekeeping force. Investment in training and building capacity for peacekeeping forces should be carried out synchronously at different levels, taking into account the requirements of areas and female peacekeepers, he said. At the national level, he suggested countries increase the revision, preparation and training of forces that meet UN standards, focusing on pre-deployment training. Useful UN documents should be updated regularly, he added. At the regional level, the Ambassador recommended enhancing information and experience exchanges, including cooperation between training centres. At the global level, the UN system should promote partnerships and share responsibilities among UN agencies, especially between the Security Council, the Secretariat and nations sending troops to the UN peacekeeping missions as well as standardise procedures and ensure budgets for training activities, he said. During the May 7 discussion, the participants agreed on the necessity to enhance the training work to increase safety, security and operational efficiency of peacekeeping forces. They advocated the efforts of UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and UN agencies in implementing commitments and strengthening triangular cooperation and vowed to push ahead with mutual support and collaboration in peacekeeping activities, promote the engagement of women in the field and prevent sexual violence. The Non-Aligned Movement countries agreed the improvement of peacekeeping operations should follow the basic principles of the UN, while ASEAN nations suggested exchanging professional experiences and giving mutual support through partnership frameworks. Description GIS - 09 May, 2019: Smart City projects are being promoted as a vital component of our vision to modernise the physical fabric of our country while at the same time strengthening the foundations for economic growth and creating new job opportunities. To date some Rs 8 billion have been invested to create six Smart Cities. This statement was made yesterday by the Prime Minister, Minister of Home Affairs, External Communications and National Development Unit, Minister of Finance and Economic Development, Mr Pravind Kumar Jugnauth, during the launching of Beau Plan Smart City at the Creative Park in Beau Plan, Pamplemousses. The Prime Minister recalled that the Smart Cities are providing the right platform as well as industrial and business solutions to attract innovation-driven development and intensify cooperation in frontier areas such as digital economy, artificial intelligence, nanotechnology and quantum computing, and advance the development of big data and cloud computing. In that context, he said that Government is providing all facilities and a set of incentives to attract higher value-added and capital-intensive industries such as pharmaceuticals, precision engineering, and high-end consumer products to be manufactured in the smart cities. Speaking about the Beau Plan Smart City, Mr Jugnauth stated that it is a landmark development in the region, since it is the first smart city in the Northern part of Mauritius. It has innovative clusters, modern and sustainable infrastructure, smart technologies and makes use of green energy, he said. The project, which expands over a period of 15 years, will entail a total investment of Rs 30 billion and will bring around 10,200 job opportunities. It also includes a social programme for people living in the region and neighbouring community, said the Prime Minister. Prime Minister Jugnauth rejoiced that the Beau Plan Smart City will set a new standard for the quality of its infrastructure and environment. It will comprise modern office spaces and a media city, pleasant homes and a wholesome living environment. The business park will also be complemented by a commercial and residential development, he said. Mr Jugnauth highlighted that the vision of Government is to build a Mauritius of the future with towns, cities and villages across the country that will be redesigned and new ones created, where there will be walkable blocks and streets, housing and shopping in close proximity and accessible public spaces with positive economic, health and environmental impacts on people. As regards the economy, the Prime Minister pointed out that GDP is expanding at a sustainable pace adding that private investment last year reached 14.1 percent of GDP, which is the highest private investment ratio in five years. He also appealed to private investors to focus their strategy on investment which can impact on growth, job creation, and the future path of the countrys development. Mr Jugnauth also emphasised the need to focus more on research and development which will rekindle the innovativeness of the country and the ingenuity of the workforce, and give a new vitality to the global competitiveness of exports. Beau Plan Smart City The Beau Plan Smart City, which is on an area of 211.33 ha., strategically located in the north, envisions to become an important economic pole where thousands of employment opportunities will be created, where businesses of all scale from small enterprises to major corporate offices will thrive together, opening unprecedented opportunities for profitable investment in Beau Plan. At the same time, the Beau Plan Smart City will aim at creating exemplary neighbourhoods around its mature lush landscaping and encourage a healthy lifestyle. It will also provide for a complete lifestyle that brings together the opportunity to live, work, play and educate within a single destination. WINCHESTER Co-owner Doug Awe has to remind himself how long its been since Arends-Awe Inc. got its start as a John Deere dealer. He received a big reminder Wednesday. It doesnt feel like 25 years, Awe said. It feels much shorter than that. But when we start thinking about the changes weve made to the dealerships, and the number of employees weve had over the years, and some of the ups and downs that came with the business, it starts adding up. Arends-Awe in Riggston and Perry was recognized for their more than two decades as a John Deere dealer in the community. Doug Awe and his wife, Marsha Awe who is controller for the business moved to the area in 1994 and took over the business in 1995. In 1996, they took over a second location in Perry. The business is co-owned with Steve Arends, Brian Arends and Bill Arends. Chad Carny, territory sales manager for John Deere, said its not uncommon for dealers in his territory to have been in their locations for 25 years or more, which is a great accomplishment in itself and builds a bond with the community. Theyre a family owned business that are pillars in the community and we appreciate it because theyre the face [the community sees] theyre the ones that get it done every day for us. We have the name John Deere, but theyre the ones that are the face to the customers, Carny said. Theyre always there creating solutions for our customers so that our farmers can continue to make a livelihood and continue to work on feeding the world. There have been a lot of changes in the past 25 years as technology boosted agriculture. Its not so different from the way technology was changing agriculture when the first farm equipment seller where Arends-Awe now stands was selling tractors to farmers who were leaving horses behind. Hunter Funk founded the business first iteration in the early 1900s. The second equipment dealer took it over and operated it as Gordon Implement for 48 years until Doug Awe took over in the 90s. Almost all of the current facilities have been built since 1995, including the shop in 2004 and the showroom in 2009. When we took over the business, a lot of dealerships had tried to buy it out before and they were concerned about starting basically with no facilities and they needed a lot of attention, Doug said. The core business and the people were all here, but the facilities werent and I guess the strength or the leadership to take it to the next era. With Doug Awes leadership and the experience and stability of his partners, the business has grown. Which is a good sign that weve chosen the right people and invested properly and have the right core values that our customer base wants, Doug said. Arends-Awe started out with 12 employees and now has around 60. The employees are kind of Marsha and Is children or extended family, Doug said. We appreciate all of them and we know that theyre the key to getting this done and the key to our customers staying loyal to our business. In addition to sales, the dealership has parts, service and technology departments. Though Doug Awe was a territory representative and agricultural engineer with John Deere for about five years before taking on the dealership, Marsha Awe had worked in other industries and planned to only work at the dealership a short time. But she loves doing what she does and has been very successful and is key to building this business over the years, Doug Awe said. GODFREY The new chairman of the Lewis and Clark Community College Board is under fire for alleged anti-Muslim postings on social media. And the college announced it was looking into allegations of concerning Facebook posts by David Heyen. Heyen was named chair of the colleges board April 30 and is allied with three newly-elected members in calling for more fiscal scrutiny and restraint over school finances. On Thursday the Missouri chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations called for Heyens resignation over what it called a series of Islamophobic, racist and anti-immigrant messages posted online. The announcement stems from snapshots of the page by concerned citizens. According to information from CAIR-Mo, the posts refer to Muslim U.S. Rep. Ilhan Omar, D-Minnesota, as a snake you are allowing in the Country. Another post complains that three Muslim members of congress have access to classified documents, and other postings promote false and Islamophobic claims. Anyone who shares such anti-Muslim, racist and anti-immigrant views has no business serving in a leadership position for any educational institution, said CAIR-Mo Executive Director Faizan Syed. We urge Lewis & Clark Community College to thoroughly investigate this matter and ensure that the college remains a welcoming place for all of its students. According to a statement from the school, The college is looking into this issue just as we would review any alleged conduct of a student, employee, board member, visitor or contractor. Heyen could not be reached for comment. GODFREY Lewis and Clark Community Colleges Honors College (LCHC) recently held an exposition, during which students showcased their culminating humanities research projects in the form of interactive exhibits and demonstrations. Guests had the opportunity to meet the students and learn about their experiences one-on-one. The event was very successful, bringing together students, faculty, donors and the community, LCHC coordinator Jen Cline said. Students are really proud of their work at the Expo. They spend anywhere from a semester to two years working on a project to display. These projects are the result of the struggle of learning. Learning is uncomfortable, and the Honors College students have embraced that struggle. LCHC student Eleanor Kohlbergs project in managerial accounting, instructed by accounting professor Margie Sinclair-Parish, stressed that accountancy is accessible to everyone. It is hard to express my joy when a student says they want to do a project in accounting for the Honors College, Sinclair-Parish said. It is my privilege to work with students in the LCHC program; they have a deep interest and enthusiasm to pursue a better understanding of how accounting can fit with their goals in life. In her presentation, Kohlberg used the planning of a trip to Chicago to challenge the idea that accounting is difficult. Guests were invited to design their trip using a magnet board, which helped illustrate the surprisingly simple connections between budgeting and basic accounting. This was my first year at the Honors Expo, Kohlberg said. The experience was amazing. There was such a variety of projects, and the sheer amount of people attending was incredible. I could be comparing school lunches one moment and trying out the virtual reality exhibit the next. You could tell every project had a lot of enthusiasm put into making it. My favorite part was definitely the speaker, Treasure Shields Redmond. Her combination of stories, songs and poems made her presentation extremely memorable. She is a very inspiring person, and it was a joy to listen to her. Im definitely going again next year. Redmond, who is a poet, educator and entrepreneur, presented a keynote address about African American civil rights activist Fannie Lou Hamer. Redmond infused poetry with southern dialect, spirituals and gospel to tell the story of the oft-forgotten co-founder of the Mississippi Freedom Democratic Party. The addition of the Lewis and Clark Gospel Choirs performance and outstanding keynote speaker, Treasure Shields Redmond, created an evening of connectedness that brought even more members into this wonderful family that we call Honors College, LCHC Assistant Coordinator Peter Hussey said. I am so proud of these students and their faculty mentors, and Im honored to be a part of this amazing institution. The L&C Honors College Exposition is open now until May 10, with gallery hours from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily in the Ahlemeyer Atrium (Trimpe 141) on L&Cs Godfrey campus. The public is invited to swing by and enjoy the interactive displays and see all the great work HC students have completed. L&C Honors College provides an opportunity for students with the outstanding potential to enhance their college experience through honors courses, service and social opportunities, and undergraduate research. Learn more at www.lc.edu/honorscollege. LCHC is sponsored by the Mannie Jackson Endowment and Center for the Humanities with funding from the National Endowment for the Humanities. For more information, visit www.lc.edu/diversity. As it became clear in recent days that various Trump administration officials might be held in contempt by the House for not complying with subpoenas, talk in Washington has turned to an intriguing prospect: Can Congress jail people? And if so, where is this jail? On Wednesday, during a Washington Post Live event held at the news outlet's headquarters, reporter Robert Costa asked House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., whether Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin could be arrested for rejecting House Democrats' request to turn over six years of tax returns for President Donald Trump and some of his companies. As the audience clapped, Pelosi smiled coyly and raised her palms to the audience in a reassuring manner. "Let me just say that we do have a jail down in the basement of the Capitol," she said as everyone laughed. "But if we were arresting all of the people in the administration, we would have an overcrowded jail situation, and I'm not for that." It wasn't clear which jail Pelosi was referencing or joking about. A spokesman for the speaker told The Washington Post on Thursday that if ever it came down to arresting people, Congress could detain them in one of the rooms controlled by the House sergeant at arms. An email to the office of the sergeant at arms was not immediately returned Thursday. Or, the Pelosi spokesman said, they could be thrown in the lockup at Capitol Police headquarters nearby. "We can fit a maximum of two people," said a sergeant who picked up the phone at the Capitol Police office and who declined to be identified. Shortly after Pelosi's talk at The Post, the House Judiciary Committee voted to recommend to the House that it hold Attorney General William Barr in contempt for not complying with its demand that he hand over special counsel Robert Mueller's unredacted report on the Russia investigation. If the House holds him in contempt, then the chamber will have to decide whether to try to compel him with fines, the courts or the prospect of jail time. Perhaps the closest thing resembling a slammer at the Capitol is the gated, locked enclosure, under the Capitol Crypt, holding the Lincoln catafalque, a wooden platform built for President Abraham Lincoln's coffin. The room - a tomb meant to hold the body of George Washington - looks like a jail. But a jail it is not. According to the office of the Architect of the Capitol, which preserves and maintains the buildings and grounds of the Capitol, no jail or detention area has existed on the campus since 1877. That's when, according to a description in the Congressional Record, two Louisiana election officials were jailed in "a little room in the basement of the Capitol, with but two windows, opening upon no sunlight, but upon a narrow confined court into which no gleam of sunshine can ever enter." The room was so dark and dank that, according to the Congressional Record, the room smelled "like the den of some foul reptile, a room where thieves arrested around the Capitol are kept." But during the Civil War, there was a building known as the "Old Capitol Prison" - at the site of the current Supreme Court - that the federal government used to house Confederate spies, soldiers and sympathizers, according to a historical website run by the history and art offices of the House. Before that, the structure was mostly used as a boardinghouse and a school. From 1815 to 1819, Congress convened at the site while workers repaired the Capitol after it had been ravaged during the British attack in 1814. The building was eventually destroyed to make room for the Supreme Court. The Old Capitol Prison left such an impression on one Confederate soldier that he wrote a prison diary about his time there. In 1911, James J. Williamson, a member of Mosby's Rangers, wrote a memoir called "Prison Life in the Old Capitol." In the book's preface, Williamson wrote that most of the prisoners were civilians and prisoners from other jails who were waiting to be shipped south. He spent much of his time reading, singing and playing cards, dominoes or checkers. Prison guards helped bring in contraband, he said. "It is an easy matter to get whiskey here," he wrote. Roger Stone may get access to redacted parts of Special Counsel Robert Mueller's report on Russian interference in the 2016 election that relate to his prosecution for lying to Congress and obstructing lawmakers' investigations. U.S. District Court Judge Amy Berman Jackson in Washington on Thursday ordered federal prosecutors to turn over portions of the report for her review by May 13. She specifically referenced a 24-page portion addressing the dissemination of information allegedly stolen from Democratic party computers by Russian military-intelligence agents, some of which was later made public by WikiLeaks and a hacker who used the name Guccifer 2.0. Large swaths of that section are blacked out, with notations that making them public would cause harm to an ongoing matter or disclose investigative techniques. In his January indictment, Stone was charged with lying to Congress about his communications with WikiLeaks, which published some of that stolen information, as well as obstruction of the lawmakers' probe and witness tampering. He pleaded not guilty. Attorneys for the longtime Republican political operative asked the court to order prosecutors to hand over an unredacted version of the 448-page Mueller report last month, contending it contained information "essential" to his defense. Prosecutors opposed the request, telling the court that Stone's lawyers were already being provided with the relevant evidence arising out of the Mueller probe. Made public in redacted form on April 18, the special counsel's report laid out Mueller's findings from his nearly two-year investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 U.S. presidential election, the possible complicity of President Donald Trump's campaign and whether the president obstructed the probe. While Mueller determined there was insufficient proof to bring conspiracy charges against anyone in the campaign, he declined to draw a conclusion on the question of obstruction, leaving further pursuit of that issue in the hands of Congress. Peter Carr, who had been a spokesman for the special counsel, referred a request for comment on Jackson's ruling to Kadia Koroma, a spokeswoman for Washington U.S. Attorney Jessie Liu, whose office is now handling the Stone matter. Koroma didn't immediately respond to a request for comment. Stone's trial is set for Nov. 5. EDWARDSVILLE Madison Countys Wood River facility dominated much of the conversation at Tuesdays Buildings & Facilities Management Committee meeting. Wood River Mayor Cheryl Maguire asked committee members if an outside engineering study has ever been done. The fate of the building, the former Wood River Township Hospital purchased by the county a few years after it closed in 2000, has been a hot topic of discussion by the committee. I have no illusions about that building, Maguire said. She was told that an outside study has not been done, but most of the issues with the building are well-known. Today about half of its 186,000 square feet of usable space is occupied, with the remainder completely vacant or being used as storage. At one point last year there was discussion about renovating the building and making it available to other public agencies or nonprofits, which would bring revenue from rent. The cost of renovation has been estimated at about $20 million, with the end result being a building worth a fraction of that. Most recently discussion has been on getting rid of or demolishing most of the existing structure. Ironically, there were also two request to use the facility discussed at the meeting. Madison County Employment and Training and Lewis and Clark Community College asked to use one of the rooms to conduct daytime GED classes. Val Harris, director of adult services at LCCC discussed the need for the classroom, which would be created in a former lab. Tony Fuhrmann, director of MCET, said offering the educational opportunities fits in well with the departments mission. He also noted that if the office was moved out of the building they would move with us. There was also a request to use part of the unoccupied portion of the building for training by the countys hazardous materials team. Tony Falcone of Madison County Emergency Management said the training would simulate a radio logical hazard, but no hazardous materials would be used. Neither request was acted on because the committee lacked a quorum, but both could be considered at a special meeting set for 4 p.m. Monday. There was also discussion about moving ahead with major renovations to the Madison County Juvenile Detention Facility. Chief Circuit Judge David Hylla and incoming Chief Circuit Judge William Mudge attended the meeting. The committee had been looking at spending up to $1 million to renovate the facility, located at 100 W. Fifth Ave., Edwardsville. However, Hylla said that in discussions with other officials most of the work could be completed for about $619,000. There is currently $187,625 budgeted for HVAC and boiler improvements at the facility. Hylla said they could fund approximately $430,000 from the Detention Home Property Tax Fund which comes from a special tax levy for detention home operations. It currently has approximately $2.6 million and has been growing in recent years, according to county officials. There had been some previous talk about selling off part of the property for commercial development, but that was not discussed. Reach reporter Scott Cousins at 618-208-6447. 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Up to 550 flights have been hit with delays or cancellations causing travel chaos for 75,000 passengers. French air traffic controllers and engineers working for DSNA (Direction des Services de la navigation aerienne), the national air-navigation provider, began their 35-hour walkout yesterday at 7pm local time and intend to stay on strike until 6am tomorrow (Friday). The action is part of a wider national protest by public servants against President Emmanuel Macrons new working conditions. Travel chaos comes as a huge number of aircraft normally overfly France resulting in delays and cancellations. French authorities have stipulated a minimum service level of 50 per cent of overflights and others will be able to avoid French airspace altogether. In the meantime Switzerland is opening additional airspace for aircraft to pass through but even this may result in a build-up of delays. Also read: My flight was delayed, can I claim compensation? Affected airports include Paris Orly, Lyon, Marseille and Toulouse, Nantes, with Perpignan and Pau airports closing at night. Routes between the UK and France, as well as Portugal and Spain face cancellations and delays. An easyJet spokeswoman said Due to a national strike in France on Thursday 9 May which will affect public services including Air Traffic Controllers in France, easyJet is expecting disruption to its flying programme. This will affect flights to and from France as well as flights flying over French airspace which may be significantly impacted during this period. Like other airlines flying to and from France, easyJet is required to cancel a proportion of its French programme and, we are also expecting other flights to experience delays. Travellers are advised to check with their airline before heading to the airport. Also read: My flight was cancelled. Can I claim compensation? Job Title: Accountant Receivables Organisation: International School of Uganda (ISU) Duty Station: Kampala, Uganda Reports to: Senior Accountant About US: The International School of Uganda (ISU) is a non-profit, co-educational day school, established in 1967, offering an international education program for students 3 to 19 years old. The International School of Uganda ( ISU ) is dedicated to providing world-class, holistic education in a multi-cultural setting, inspiring and equipping students to be life-long learners, to reach their full potential and to be responsible global citizens active in shaping the future. Job Summary: The Accountant Receivables is mainly responsible for student billing, fee collection and ensuring that the international School of Uganda maintains accurate accounting records. Key Duties and Responsibilities: QuickBooks Maintaining accurate student billing records in Admin Plus &QuickBooks Issuing invoices for tuition and other charges In charge of monitoring payment of school fees and other receivables Issuing receipts and statements for debtors procedures are adhered to. Managing the credit control function; ensuring of collectionprocedures are adhered to. invoices and payments. Serve as the main point of contact for portents in regards to teeinvoices and payments. office Updating accounting records and general duties within the accountsoffice Post all approved payable invoices into QuickBooks Qualifications, Skills and Experience: or Business Administration The applicant must hold a Bachelors degree in Accounting, Commerceor Business Administration ACCA or CPA Level II reputable organisation A minimum of three years experience in a similar position in areputable organisation Experience of using QuickBooks accounting package particularly Excel Good working knowledge of Microsoft Office applications,particularly Excel Excellent communications skills Team player: flexible and hard working Customer service oriented Keen attention to detail How to Apply: All suitably qualified and interested candidates should send an updated CV and cover letter to humanresources@isumail.ac.ug with the Subject title: Application for Accountant- Receivables position NB: Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. A recent Police clearance will be required upon employment at the cost of the applicant. Deadline: 17th May 2019. For more of the latest jobs, please visit https://www.theugandanjobline.com or find us on our facebook page https://www.facebook.com/UgandanJobline Job Title: Premises & Records Keeping Officer Organisation: Opportunity Bank Duty Station: Kampala, Uganda Reports to: Manager, Admin and Procurement About US: Opportunity Bank Uganda Ltd (OBUL) is a member of Opportunity International, a global microfinance institution that provides access to financial services in 27 Countries globally serving over 2 Million customers with Savings, Credit and other transformational services aimed at transforming the lives of low income earners. Job Summary: The Premises & Records Keeping Officer will be tasked with the management of premises, record keeping plus asset inventory he should ensure that there is full compliance with policies, procedures and best practice, regulatory guidelines in premises and archive management and other in assigned functions. Key Duties and Responsibilities: Strategic Management and Planning Premises and Record Keeping Management Archives Management Premises and estate management. Qualifications, Skills and Experience: construction company One year of experience in Administration function, technical orconstruction company requirements. Extensive knowledge of the Ugandan banking regulations and statutoryrequirements. force and supporting environment, highly level of integrity. Broad knowledge and experience with Uganda casual technical laborforce and supporting environment, highly level of integrity. requirements Knowledge of the Ugandan banking regulations and statutoryrequirements How to Apply: All suitably qualified and interested candidates should send their signed application letters together with their curriculum vitae to; The Human Resources Manager, Opportunity Bank Uganda Limited, Plot 1259, Old Kiira Road; P. O. Box 33513 Kampala. Uganda Deadline: 9th May 2019 by 5:00pm For more of the latest jobs, please visit https://www.theugandanjobline.com or find us on our facebook page https://www.facebook.com/UgandanJobline Job Title: Sales Representatives (Several Fresher Jobs) Organization: Platinum Credit (U) Ltd Duty Station: Kampala, Uganda About US: Platinum Credit is a leading Regional Micro Finance Company providing emergency loans to employed individuals in Eastern Africa. We have a wide spread branch network in Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania. Platinum Credit (U) Ltd has introduced a new product available to formally employed persons working in the Private Sector. Platinum Credit (U) Ltd is a subsidiary of Platcorp Holdings Ltd. Job Summary: The Sales Representative will procure sales on behalf of the company. Key Duties and Responsibilities: Present and sell company products and services to potential clients. Establish and maintain client relationships. Respond to and follow up sales inquiries using appropriate methods. Develop and maintain current product knowledge. . Identify and resolve client concerns Participate in marketing events Communicate new product and service opportunities and provide feedback gathered through field activity to appropriate company staff. Qualifications, Skills and Experience: . The ideal candidate for the Sales Representative job must hold a Degree or Diploma in a relevant field A minimum of six months of experience preferably in a financial institution. Excellent numerical and analytical skills. Excellent interpersonal and communication skills . How to Apply: All suitably qualified and interested candidate should kindly send their applications, detailed CVs (in Ms Word format) and testimonials (in PDF format) to the address below; (total email size should not exceed 2MB) The Training Manager; Platinum Credit (U) Ltd Send your application by Email to: saboth@platinumcredit.co.ug Or deliver it to Spear House, 2nd Floor. Deadline: Open For more of the latest jobs, please visit https://www.theugandanjobline.com or find us on our Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/UgandanJobline MARGARET WEEDEN, Chariho, Girls Track, Senior; Weeden won two events for the Chargers in the first meet of the season. Weeden was first in the high jump (5-0) and the long jump 15-1. ANNE DRAGO, Stonington, Girls Basketball, Senior; Drago scored 39 points in three games as Stonington started the season 1-2. Drago had 16 in a loss to Fitch, 12 in a win against Griswold and 11 in a defeat to Ledyard. SYDNEY HAIK, Westerly, Girls Basketball, Sophomore; Haik scored 14 points as the Bulldogs opened the season with a victory over Cumberland. Haik had three 3-pointers, five assists and five steals. ZANE BREWER, Wheeler, Boys Basketball, Freshman; Brewer scored 21 points and grabbed eight rebounds in the Lions season-opening win over Grasso Tech. Brewer followed that with 18 points and five rebounds in a loss to Hale-Ray. Vote View Results Six of the UK's largest banking groups will not be forced to introduce tighter payments security systems until next March, under new plans put forward by regulators. The Confirmation of Payee scheme, designed to alert anyone making a payment if the recipient's name does not match their bank details, was supposed to be in place by the start of July this year but has been delayed. The new system will better protect customers from so-called authorised push payment scams. Pay.UK - which operates BACS and Faster Payments has worked on the system, which is designed to help clamp down on authorised push payment fraud But under a new consultation released today by the Payments System Regulator, the likes of Barclays, Lloyds Bank, Nationwide, RBS and Santander have been asked to ensure the system is fully in place by March 31 2020. It is also proposing asking them to be able to respond to confirmation requests by the end of this year. However, one commentator slammed the PSR's delay as directly leaving 'millions of customers vulnerable to losing life-changing sums of money'. Gareth Shaw from consumer group Which?, said the system 'should have been introduced years ago' and that 'banks and the regulator must urgently work towards its implementation as customers cannot face further delays'. If the confirmation system works, alerts will notify those sending a payment when there has not been a match, meaning corrections can be made before the payment is sent, rather than scam victims having to try and claw back the money afterwards. It's one of a number of measures designed to clamp down on APP scams, which took 354million from customers last year. The six biggest banking groups in the UK that will be bound by the proposed directive are Lloyds Banking Group, Barclays Group, HSBC Group, RBS Group, Santander Group and Nationwide Building Society. The scheme is designed to clamp down on APP scams - where a victim often unwittingly transfers money into a fraudsters account. They cost victims 345m in 2018 This would mean 90 per cent of bank transfers would be subject to this extra layer of security, including customers of private banks like Cater Allen and Coutts. The PSR decided to limit it to the UK's largest banks because of concerns about how difficult implementing the system would be for smaller providers. It is the PSR's second consultation in seven months, after one published in November last year recommended payment providers ought to have the confirmation scheme ready in July. However, that deadline was scrapped following feedback from banks, with the head of trade body UK Finance admitting to MPs in February it wouldn't be ready until 'sometime next year'. Stephen Jones told the Treasury Select Committee it was because the system required complex changes in banks' IT systems, rather than because it had dropped down their list of priorities. This latest consultation is open until 5 June 2019. Chris Hemsley, co-managing director of the PSR, said: 'People should be properly protected. This includes taking steps to prevent the fraud from happening in the first place, and Confirmation of Payee is an important part of this. 'But it needs to be done in the right way if it is going to help protect people from APP scams and help stop payments being sent to the wrong account. 'This is why we have updated our plans and focused our proposed direction so that more people start to benefit from this protection sooner.' A mother has called on travel firm Tui to 'put things right' after incurring a 200 charge to cancel her daughter's free place on a family holiday to Spain. Gemma Disson from Cardiff was due to travel to Menorca in May with her partner and four-year-old daughter but had to cancel the 1,000 holiday booked through Tui in January for family reasons. Ms Disson said she chose the holiday because it included a free place for her daughter. A mother has called on travel firm Tui to 'put things right' after incurring a 200 charge to cancel her daughter's free place on a family holiday to Spain While she expected she and her partner would each be charged a 200 cancellation fee, she was surprised when Tui added another 200 to the bill to cover her daughter's booking - taking the total charge to 600. Tui's terms and conditions state cancellation charges are a percentage of the cost of the booking. The charge covers the cost of processing the cancellation and compensates the firm for the risk it might not be able to resell the holiday. Ms Disson has not heard back from Tui after writing to the firm in February to query the charge. Her letter read: 'I appreciate the cost of 200 per person in fees and I expected that for myself and my partner but not for my daughter. 'We booked the holiday on the pretence that there was a FREE child place which indeed was correct. Gemma Disson from Cardiff was due to travel to Menorca (pictured) in May with her partner and four-year-old daughter but had to cancel the 1,000 holiday booked through Tui in January for family reasons. Ms Disson said she chose the holiday because it included a free place for her daughter 'On this understanding, and having looked through your terms and conditions, I could not see any reason why or how you could charge 200 cancellation fee for a child was in fact free in the first place.' Ms Disson said: 'I couldn't believe there was a charge for something that was free. 'We've been charged 600 to cancel a holiday that cost just under 1,000 in the first place. 'It's just very disappointing and Tui has not even replied to my letter.' Last month, the competition watchdog warned travel firms they must act fairly towards customers who need to cancel their plans. Under consumer law, firms may be entitled to ask customers to pay a cancellation fee to cover their losses but the amount they keep must be in proportion to what they are losing. The Competition and Markets Authority warned cancellation terms that do not follow this approach are likely to be unfair and businesses cannot rely on them to resolve claims or disputes with customers. Rory Boland, Which? travel editor, said: 'Having to cancel a holiday for any reason is bound to be stressful - especially when you are likely to lose your deposit and have to pay a cancellation fee. 'It is then adding insult to injury for customers to be charged that same hefty cancellation fee for a child whose holiday was supposedly free. It is punitive and unfair. 'Tui would do well to reflect and make sure that the terms in their customer contracts are fair and that cancellation fees genuinely reflect the cost to the company of cancelling holidays.' Tui said: 'Were sorry to hear that the Disson family is unhappy with their experience following their decision to cancel their holiday. Relevant information about deposits and cancellation charges is clearly stated within our booking conditions, but we do recognise that the service provided since has not been up to our usual standards. We will be in touch with them to resolve the matter.' By Agustinus Beo Da Costa JAKARTA, May 9 (Reuters) - A top Indonesian lawmaker has demanded a parliamentary inquiry into the deaths of more than 500 officials during recent elections, most of them linked to fatigue-related illnesses in gruelling work conditions. The April 17 vote was the first in a country of 260 million people to combine the presidential vote with national and regional parliamentary ballots, but it took a dramatic toll of the 7 million people who worked on it. The world's largest single-day election is estimated to have drawn 80 percent of the 193 million eligible voters, each of whom had to punch up to five ballot papers in more than 800,000 polling stations. But conducting the vote in a country that spans more than 5,000 km (3,000 miles) across its western and eastern tips has proved both a Herculean feat of logistics and deadly for officials, who had to count ballot papers by hand. "There has never been this kind of precedent in election history anywhere in the world," Fahri Hamzah, the deputy speaker of parliament, told Reuters, calling for parliament's committee on domestic affairs to form an investigation team. Indonesia's election commission (KPU) said 456 staff had died and 4,310 had fallen sick, besides 91 members of the election supervisory agency and 22 police officers who died. The government has agreed to pay compensation of about 36 million rupiah ($2,500) to relatives of the dead, said commission spokesman Arief Priyo Susanto, with further payments to those who suffered disability or injury. Risks include long hours of work under stress, the age and existing health conditions of some staff, and tough work situations, often in sweltering heat, said Ari Fahrial Syam, dean of the medical faculty at the University of Indonesia. People older than 60 should not work on elections, he added. Data from Jakarta, where 18 staff died, showed most of the deaths involved those older than 50 who suffered from diseases ranging from heart attacks to strokes and respiratory failure, Health Minister Nila Moeloek said. "They already had risk factors, but it is true that heavier workloads, working hours, stress levels and irregular rest schedules are also added (factors)," she told a news conference on Wednesday. Election commissioner Viryan Aziz said 157 staff had died during the 2014 presidential election. "What we are trying to do now is to make sure officials are accompanied by medical personnel throughout the process of local and provincial recapitulation," he added, referring to recounts. Another election commissioner, Pramono Ubaid Tantowi, said authorities could look into ways to separate national and local elections. There have also been calls to adopt electronic voting. But such measures offer little consolation for Masnun Binti Abdul Hamid, whose spouse died after long hours at a polling station at Bekasi in West Java, including a 24-hour stint on election day. She said Abdul Rochim, 40, who had no history of heart disease or high blood pressure, started feeling weak and short of breath two days later, and was taken to hospital but died in intensive care. His wife accepted the death as "destiny" but hoped there would be no more victims. "I do not want this to happen again," she said. (Additional reporting by Yerica Lai; Writing by Ed Davies; Editing by Clarence Fernandez) The following companies are subsidiares of ITT: AIMCO Industries LLC, AcousticFab LLC, Allen Osborne Associates, Axtone, Axtone Bahntechink GmbH, Axtone GmbH, Axtone HSW sp. z.o.o., Axtone S.A., Axtone s.r.o., Blakers Pump Engineers, Bolton Insurance Co., Bolton International RE S.C.A., Bolton International S.C.A., Bombas Goulds S.A., Bombas Goulds de Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., Bombas Goulds de Venezuela C.A., Bornemann Inc. (Canada), Bornemann S.A. DE C.V., C&I QSF LLC, C&K Components, Canberra Pumps do Brasil, Carbon Industries Inc., Computer & Equipment Leasing Corporation, DITTHA GmbH, Distribuidora Arbos C.A., Dolphin Technology, EP Industries Europe B.V., Edo, Electrofilm Manufacturing Company, Ellis K. Phelps & Co., Energy Machine Services, Enidine Kabashiki Gaisha (Enidine Company Limited (Japan)), EnviroTech LLC, Equipos Hidraulicos S.A., European Pump Services B.V., F.B. Leopold, FLOJET Corp., Flowtronex PSI, Godwin Pumps, Goulds Mexico Holdings LLC, Goulds Pumps (IPG) LLC, Goulds Pumps (N.Y.) Inc., Goulds Pumps (NY) Inc. (PERU BRANCH), Goulds Pumps (NY) Inc. (TAIWAN BRANCH), Goulds Pumps (PA) LLC, Goulds Pumps Administration Inc., Goulds Pumps Canada Inc., Goulds Pumps Co. Ltd., Goulds Pumps LLC, Goulds QSF LLC, Hartzell Aerospace, Hydro Air Industries, ITT (China) Investment Co. Ltd., ITT (China) Investment Co. Ltd. (SHANGHAI BRANCH), ITT (Shanghai) Fluid Technology Co. Ltd., ITT Aerospace Controls LLC, ITT Australia Holdings Pty Ltd, ITT Automotive Enterprises Inc., ITT Blakers PTY Ltd, ITT Blakers Unit Trust, ITT Bombas Goulds do Brasil Ltda., ITT Bornemann GmbH, ITT Bornemann-Goulds Pumps S.R.L., ITT C'treat LLC, ITT Cannon (Hong Kong) LTD, ITT Cannon (Hong Kong) LTD (TAIWAN BRANCH), ITT Cannon Electronics (Shenzhen) Co. Ltd, ITT Cannon GmbH, ITT Cannon GmbH (DENMARK BRANCH), ITT Cannon Korea Ltd., ITT Cannon LLC, ITT Cannon LLC (DUBAI BRANCH), ITT Cannon Ltd., ITT Cannon Mexico Inc., ITT Cannon Veam Italia s.r.l., ITT Cannon de Mexico S.A. de C.V., ITT Community Development Corporation, ITT Corporation India PVT. Ltd., ITT Egypt LLC, ITT Engineered Valves LLC, ITT Enidine GmbH, ITT Enidine Inc., ITT Finance Hong Kong Ltd., ITT Fluid Technology Asia Pte Ltd., ITT Fluid Technology International (Thailand) LTD., ITT Fluid Technology International Inc., ITT Fluid Technology International Inc. (DUBAI BRANCH), ITT Fluid Technology International Inc. (RUSSIAN BRANCH), ITT Fluid Technology S.A., ITT Germany Holdings GmbH, ITT Goulds Pumps Colombia S.A.S., ITT Goulds Pumps Inc., ITT Goulds Pumps Inc. (GREECE BRANCH), ITT High Precision Manufactured Products (Wuxi) Co. Ltd., ITT Holding LLC, ITT Holdings Czech Republic s.r.o., ITT Industries France S.A.S., ITT Industries Global S.a.r.l., ITT Industries Holdings Inc., ITT Industries Holdings Limited, ITT Industries Limited, ITT Industries Luxembourg S.a r.l., ITT Industries Rus LLC, ITT Industries Spain SL, ITT International Holdings Inc., ITT International Luxembourg S.a r.l., ITT Investments Luxembourg S.a.r.l., ITT Iran S.K., ITT Italia s.r.l., ITT Italy Holding Srl, ITT Japan B.V., ITT Korea Holding B.V., ITT LLC, ITT Luxembourg Europe Sarl, ITT Luxembourg Worldwide Sarl, ITT Manufacturing Enterprises LLC, ITT Motion Technologies America LLC, ITT Motion Technologies GmbH, ITT Motion Technologies LLC, ITT Motion Technologies Luxembourg S.a.r.l., ITT Motion Technologies Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V, ITT Netherlands B.V., ITT Netherlands Europe B.V., ITT Netherlands Worldwide B.V., ITT Rheinhuette Pumps LLC, ITT Rheinhutte Benelux B.V., ITT Rheinhutte Pumpen Austria GmbH, ITT Rheinhutte Pumpen Co. Ltd., ITT Rheinhutte Pumpen GmbH, ITT Rheinhutte Pumpen do Brasil Industria de Bombas Ltda., ITT Saudi Co., ITT Technical Services S.K., ITT Torque Systems Inc., ITT Water & Wastewater U.S.A. Inc., ITT Water Technology (TX) LLC, InTelCo Management LLC, InTelCo Properties LLC, Industrial Tube Company LLC, Industries QSF LLC, International Motion Control, International Motion Control Inc., International Standard Electric Corporation, International Telephone & Telegraph Corp., K and M Electronics, Kentucky Carbon Corporation, Koni BV, Koni France SAS, Koni NA LLC, LLMZ Kamax, Leland Properties Inc., Matrix Composites, Matrix Composites Inc., Nova Analytics, O.I. Corporation, PT ITT Fluid Technology Indonesia, Pci Membranes, Precision Stainless, Qingdao Kamax Buffer Equipment Company Ltd., Qume, Rheinhutte Pumps Nordic Filial, Rheinhutte Pumpen Group, Rule Industries, Rule Industries LLC, SRA International's Airport Operations Solutions (AOS) group, STX Pte. Ltd, Shanghai Goulds Pumps Co. Ltd., Shanghai Hengtong Purified Water Development, Shanghai Hengtong Water Treatment Engineering, Sinton Engineering Group, Standard Electric, Standard Tecknik Services, Stanford Telecommunications Inc, Svedala Robot BV, TDS Corporate Services LLC, Uniservice Wellpoint, Venus Holdco LLC, WAM China Ltd., WC Wolverine Holdings Inc., Water Pollution Control Corp., Wolverine Advanced Materials (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Wolverine Advanced Materials Asia Limited, Wolverine Advanced Materials GmbH, Wolverine Advanced Materials LLC, Wolverine Advanced Materials LLC (INDIA BRANCH), Wolverine Automotive Holdings Inc., Wolverine Brasil Representacao Ltda., Wolverine Japan KK, Wolverine Press (Changshu) Co. Ltd., Wolverine/Tekno Laminates and Composites Ltda., and YSI Inc. The following companies are subsidiares of Pfizer: AH Robins LLC, AHP Holdings B.V., AHP Manufacturing B.V., Agouron Pharmaceuticals LLC, Alacer, Alpharma Holdings LLC, Alpharma Pharmaceuticals LLC, Alpharma Specialty Pharma LLC, Alpharma USHP LLC, American Food Industries LLC, Anacor Pharmaceuticals, Anacor Pharmaceuticals Inc., Angiosyn, Array BioPharma, Ayerst-Wyeth Pharmaceuticals LLC, BIND Therapeutics Inc., BINESA 2002 S.L., Bamboo Therapeutics, Bamboo Therapeutics Inc., Baxter International - Marketed Vaccines, BioRexis, Bioren, Bioren LLC, Blue Whale Re Ltd., C.E. Commercial Holdings C.V., C.E. Commercial Investments C.V., C.P. Pharmaceuticals International C.V., CICL Corporation, COC I Corporation, Catapult Genetics, Coley Pharmaceutical GmbH, Coley Pharmaceutical Group, Coley Pharmaceutical Group Inc., Continental Pharma Inc., Covx, Covx Technologies Ireland Limited, Cyanamid Inter-American Corporation, Cyanamid de Argentina S.A., Cyanamid de Colombia S.A., Distribuidora Mercantil Centro Americana S.A., Encysive Pharmaceuticals, Encysive Pharmaceuticals Inc., Esperion LUV Development Inc., Esperion Therapeutics, Excaliard Pharmaceuticals, Excaliard Pharmaceuticals Inc., Farminova Produtos Farmaceuticos de Inovacao Lda., Farmogene Productos Farmaceuticos Lda, Ferrosan A/S, Ferrosan International A/S, Ferrosan S.R.L., FoldRx Pharmaceuticals Inc., Foldrx Pharmaceuticals, Fort Dodge Manufatura Ltda., G. D. Searle & Co. Limited, G. D. Searle International Capital LLC, G. D. Searle LLC, GI Europe Inc., GI Japan Inc., GenTrac Inc., Genetics Institute LLC, Greenstone LLC, Haptogen Limited, Hospira, Hospira (China) Enterprise Management Co. Ltd., Hospira Adelaide Pty Ltd, Hospira Aseptic Services Limited, Hospira Australia Pty Ltd, Hospira Benelux BVBA, Hospira Chile Limitada, Hospira Deutschland GmbH, Hospira Enterprises B.V., Hospira France SAS, Hospira Healthcare B.V., Hospira Healthcare Corporation, Hospira Healthcare India Private Limited, Hospira Holdings (S.A.) Pty Ltd, Hospira Inc., Hospira Invicta S.A., Hospira Ireland Holdings Unlimited Company, Hospira Ireland Sales Limited, Hospira Japan G.K., Hospira Limited, Hospira Malaysia Sdn Bhd, Hospira NZ Limited, Hospira Nordic AB, Hospira Philippines Inc., Hospira Portugal LDA, Hospira Produtos Hospitalares Ltda., Hospira Pte. Ltd., Hospira Pty Limited, Hospira Puerto Rico LLC, Hospira Singapore Pte Ltd, Hospira UK Limited, Hospira Worldwide LLC, Hospira Zagreb d.o.o., ICAgen, Idun Pharmaceuticals, Industrial Santa Agape S.A., InnoPharma, InnoPharma Inc., International Affiliated Corporation LLC, JMI-Daniels Pharmaceuticals Inc., John Wyeth & Brother Limited, Kiinteisto oy Espoon Pellavaniementie 14, King Pharmaceuticals Holdings LLC, King Pharmaceuticals LLC, King Pharmaceuticals Research and Development LLC, Korea Pharma Holding Company Limited, Laboratoires Pfizer S.A., Laboratorios Parke Davis S.L., Laboratorios Pfizer Ltda., Laboratorios Wyeth LLC, Laboratorios Wyeth S.A., Laboratorios Pfizer Lda., MTG Divestitures LLC, Mayne Pharma IP Holdings (Euro) Pty Ltd, Medivation, Medivation Field Solutions LLC, Medivation LLC, Medivation Neurology LLC, Medivation Prostate Therapeutics LLC, Medivation Services LLC, Medivation Technologies LLC, Meridian Medical Technologies Inc., Meridian Medical Technologies Limited, Monarch Pharmaceuticals LLC, Neusentis Limited, NextWave Pharmaceuticals, NextWave Pharmaceuticals Incorporated, P-D Co. LLC, PAH USA IN8 LLC, PF Americas Holding C.V., PF Asia Manufacturing B.V., PF PR Holdings C.V., PF PRISM C.V., PF PRISM Holdings S.a.r.l., PF Prism S.a.r.l., PFE Holdings G.K., PFE PHAC Holdings 1 LLC, PFE Pfizer Holdings 1 LLC, PFE Wyeth Holdings LLC, PFE Wyeth-Ayerst (Asia) LLC, PHILCO Holdings S.a r.l., PHIVCO Corp., PHIVCO Holdco S.a r.l., PHIVCO Luxembourg S.a r.l., PN Mexico LLC, PT. Pfizer Parke Davis, Parke Davis & Company LLC, Parke Davis Limited, Parke Davis Productos Farmaceuticos Lda, Parke-Davis Manufacturing Corp., Parkedale Pharmaceuticals Inc., Peak Enterprises LLC, Pfizer, Pfizer (China) Research and Development Co. Ltd., Pfizer (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd, Pfizer (Perth) Pty Limited, Pfizer (Thailand) Limited, Pfizer (Wuhan) Research and Development Co. Ltd., Pfizer AB, Pfizer AG, Pfizer AS, Pfizer Africa & Middle East for Pharmaceuticals Veterinarian Products & Chemicals S.A.E., Pfizer Anti-Infectives AB, Pfizer ApS, Pfizer Asia Manufacturing Pte. Ltd., Pfizer Asia Pacific Pte Ltd., Pfizer Atlantic Holdings S.a.r.l., Pfizer Australia Holdings B.V., Pfizer Australia Holdings Pty Limited, Pfizer Australia Investments Pty. Ltd., Pfizer Australia Pty Limited, Pfizer B.V., Pfizer BH D.o.o., Pfizer Baltic Holdings B.V., Pfizer Biofarmaceutica Sociedade Unipessoal Lda, Pfizer Biologics (Hangzhou) Co. Ltd, Pfizer Biologics Ireland Holdings Limited, Pfizer Biotech Corporation, Pfizer Bolivia S.A., Pfizer Canada Inc., Pfizer CentreSource Asia Pacific Pte. Ltd., Pfizer Chile S.A., Pfizer Cia. Ltda., Pfizer Colombia Spinco I LLC, Pfizer Commercial Holdings Cooperatief U.A., Pfizer Commercial Holdings TRAE Kft., Pfizer Commercial TRAE Trading Kft., Pfizer Consumer Healthcare AB, Pfizer Consumer Healthcare GmbH, Pfizer Consumer Healthcare Ltd., Pfizer Consumer Manufacturing Italy S.r.l., Pfizer Corporation, Pfizer Corporation Austria Gesellschaft m.b.H., Pfizer Corporation Hong Kong Limited, Pfizer Croatia d.o.o., Pfizer Deutschland GmbH, Pfizer Development LP, Pfizer Development Services (UK) Limited, Pfizer Domestic Ventures Limited, Pfizer Dominicana S.R.L, Pfizer ESP Pty Ltd, Pfizer East India B.V., Pfizer Eastern Investments B.V., Pfizer Egypt S.A.E., Pfizer Enterprise Holdings B.V., Pfizer Enterprises LLC, Pfizer Enterprises SARL, Pfizer Europe Finance B.V., Pfizer Export B.V., Pfizer Export Company, Pfizer Export Holding Company B.V, Pfizer Finance Share Service (Dalian) Co. Ltd., Pfizer Financial Services N.V./S.A., Pfizer France International Investments, Pfizer Free Zone Panama S. de R.L., Pfizer GEP S.L., Pfizer Global Holdings B.V., Pfizer Global Supply Japan Inc., Pfizer Global Trading, Pfizer Group Luxembourg Sarl, Pfizer Gulf FZ-LLC, Pfizer H.C.P. Corporation, Pfizer HK Service Company Limited, Pfizer Health AB, Pfizer Health Solutions Inc., Pfizer Healthcare Ireland, Pfizer Hellas A.E., Pfizer Himalaya Holdings Cooperatief U.A., Pfizer Holding France, Pfizer Holding Ventures, Pfizer Holdings Corporation, Pfizer Holdings Europe Unlimited Company, Pfizer Holdings G.K., Pfizer Holdings International Corporation, Pfizer Holdings International Luxembourg (PHIL) Sarl, Pfizer Holdings North America SARL, Pfizer Hungary Holdings TRAE Kft., Pfizer Inc., Pfizer Innovations AB, Pfizer Innovations LLC, Pfizer Innovative Supply Point International BVBA, Pfizer International LLC, Pfizer International Markets Cooperatief U.A., Pfizer International Operations, Pfizer International S. de R.L., Pfizer International Trading (Shanghai) Limited, Pfizer Investment Capital Unlimited Company, Pfizer Investment Co. Ltd., Pfizer Investment Holdings S.a.r.l., Pfizer Ireland Investments Limited, Pfizer Ireland PFE Holding 1 LLC, Pfizer Ireland PFE Holding 2 LLC, Pfizer Ireland Pharmaceuticals, Pfizer Ireland Ventures Unlimited Company, Pfizer Italia S.r.l., Pfizer Italy Group Holding S.r.l., Pfizer Japan Inc., Pfizer LLC, Pfizer Laboratories (Pty) Limited, Pfizer Laboratories Limited, Pfizer Laboratories PFE (Pty) Ltd, Pfizer Leasing Ireland Limited, Pfizer Leasing UK Limited, Pfizer Limitada, Pfizer Limited, Pfizer Luxco Holdings SARL, Pfizer Luxembourg Global Holdings S.a r.l., Pfizer Luxembourg SARL, Pfizer MAP Holding Inc., Pfizer Manufacturing Austria G.m.b.H., Pfizer Manufacturing Belgium N.V., Pfizer Manufacturing Deutschland GmbH, Pfizer Manufacturing Deutschland Grundbesitz GmbH & Co. KG, Pfizer Manufacturing Holdings LLC, Pfizer Manufacturing Ireland Unlimited Company, Pfizer Manufacturing LLC, Pfizer Manufacturing Services, Pfizer Medical Technology Group (Belgium) N.V., Pfizer Medicamentos Genericos e Participacoes Ltda., Pfizer Mexico Luxco SARL, Pfizer Mexico S.A. de C.V., Pfizer Middle East for Pharmaceuticals Animal Health and Chemicals S.A.E., Pfizer New Zealand Limited, Pfizer Norge AS, Pfizer North American Holdings Inc., Pfizer OTC B.V., Pfizer Overseas LLC, Pfizer Oy, Pfizer PFE ApS, Pfizer PFE AsiaPac Holding B.V., Pfizer PFE Australia Holding B.V., Pfizer PFE Australia Pty Ltd, Pfizer PFE B.V., Pfizer PFE Baltic Holdings B.V., Pfizer PFE Belgium SPRL, Pfizer PFE Brazil Holding S.a r.l., Pfizer PFE CIA. Ltda., Pfizer PFE Chile Holding LLC, Pfizer PFE Colombia Holding Corp., Pfizer PFE Colombia S.A.S, Pfizer PFE Commercial Holdings LLC, Pfizer PFE Croatia Holding B.V., Pfizer PFE Eastern Investments B.V., Pfizer PFE Finland Oy, Pfizer PFE France, Pfizer PFE Global Holdings B.V., Pfizer PFE Ireland Pharmaceuticals Holding 1 B.V., Pfizer PFE Italy Holdco 2 S.a r.l., Pfizer PFE Italy Holdco S.a r.l., Pfizer PFE Korlatolt Felelossegu Tarsasag, Pfizer PFE Limited, Pfizer PFE Luxembourg S.a r.l., Pfizer PFE Mexico Holding 3 LLC, Pfizer PFE Netherlands Holding 1 C.V., Pfizer PFE New Zealand, Pfizer PFE New Zealand Holding B.V., Pfizer PFE Norway Holding S.a r.l., Pfizer PFE PILSA Holdco S.a r.l., Pfizer PFE Peru Holding LLC, Pfizer PFE Peru S.R.L., Pfizer PFE Pharmaceuticals Israel Holding LLC, Pfizer PFE Pharmaceuticals Israel Ltd., Pfizer PFE Private Limited, Pfizer PFE S.R.L, Pfizer PFE Service Company Holding Cooperatief U.A., Pfizer PFE Singapore Holding B.V., Pfizer PFE Singapore Pte. Ltd., Pfizer PFE Spain B.V., Pfizer PFE Spain Holding S.L., Pfizer PFE Sweden Holding 2 S.a.r.l., Pfizer PFE Sweden Holding S.a.r.l., Pfizer PFE Switzerland GmbH, Pfizer PFE Turkey Holding 1 B.V., Pfizer PFE Turkey Holding 2 B.V., Pfizer PFE UK Holding 4 LP, Pfizer PFE US Holdings 1 LLC, Pfizer PFE US Holdings 2 LLC, Pfizer PFE US Holdings 3 LLC, Pfizer PFE US Holdings 4 LLC, Pfizer PFE US Holdings 5 LLC, Pfizer PFE spol. s r.o., Pfizer PFE Ilaclar Anonim Sirketi, Pfizer Pakistan Limited, Pfizer Parke Davis (Thailand) Ltd., Pfizer Parke Davis Inc., Pfizer Parke Davis Sdn. Bhd., Pfizer Pharm Algerie, Pfizer Pharma GmbH, Pfizer Pharma PFE GmbH, Pfizer Pharmaceutical (Wuxi) Co. Ltd., Pfizer Pharmaceutical Trading Limited Liability Company (a/k/a Pfizer Kft. or Pfizer LLC), Pfizer Pharmaceuticals B.V., Pfizer Pharmaceuticals Global B.V., Pfizer Pharmaceuticals Israel Ltd., Pfizer Pharmaceuticals Korea Limited, Pfizer Pharmaceuticals LLC, Pfizer Pharmaceuticals Ltd., Pfizer Pigments Inc., Pfizer Polska Sp. z.o.o., Pfizer Private Limited, Pfizer Production LLC, Pfizer Products Inc., Pfizer Products India Private Limited, Pfizer Research (NC) Inc., Pfizer Romania SRL, Pfizer S.A., Pfizer S.A., Pfizer S.A. (Belgium), Pfizer S.A. de C.V., Pfizer S.A.S., Pfizer S.G.P.S. Lda., Pfizer S.L., Pfizer S.R.L., Pfizer SRB d.o.o., Pfizer Saidal Manufacturing, Pfizer Sante Familiale, Pfizer Saudi Limited, Pfizer Seiyaku K.K., Pfizer Service Company BVBA, Pfizer Service Company Ireland Unlimited Company, Pfizer Services 1, Pfizer Services LLC, Pfizer Shared Services Unlimited Company, Pfizer Shareholdings Intermediate SARL, Pfizer Singapore Holding Pte. Ltd., Pfizer Singapore Trading Pte. Ltd., Pfizer Spain Holdings Cooperatief U.A., Pfizer Specialties Limited, Pfizer Strategic Investment Holdings LLC, Pfizer Sweden Partnership KB, Pfizer TRAE Holdings Kft., Pfizer Trading Polska sp.z.o.o., Pfizer Transactions Ireland Unlimited Company, Pfizer Transactions LLC, Pfizer Transactions Luxembourg SARL, Pfizer Transport LLC, Pfizer Ukraine LLC, Pfizer Vaccines LLC, Pfizer Venezuela S.A., Pfizer Venture Investments LLC, Pfizer Ventures LLC, Pfizer Worldwide Services Unlimited Company, Pfizer Zona Franca S.A., Pfizer spol. s r.o., Pharmacia, Pharmacia & Upjohn Company Inc., Pharmacia & Upjohn Company LLC, Pharmacia & Upjohn LLC, Pharmacia & Upjohn S.A. de C.V., Pharmacia Brasil Ltda., Pharmacia Hepar LLC, Pharmacia Holding AB, Pharmacia Inter-American LLC, Pharmacia International B.V., Pharmacia LLC, Pharmacia Limited, Pharmacia Nostrum S.A., Pharmacia South Africa (Pty) Ltd, PowderJect Research Limited, PowderMed, Purepac Pharmaceutical Holdings LLC, Redvax, Renrall LLC, Rinat Neuroscience, Rinat Neuroscience Corp., Roerig Produtos Farmaceuticos Lda., Roerig S.A., Sao Cristovao Participacoes Ltda., Searle Laboratorios Lda., Serenex, Servicios P&U S. de R.L. de C.V., Shiley LLC, Sinergis Farma-Produtos Farmaceuticos Lda., Site Realty Inc., Solinor LLC, Sugen LLC, Tabor LLC, The Pfizer Incubator LLC, Therachon, Thiakis Limited, Treerly Health Co. Ltd, US Oral Pharmaceuticals Pty Ltd, Upjohn Laboratorios Lda., Vesteralens Naturprodukter A/S, Vesteralens Naturprodukter AB, Vesteralens Naturprodukter AS, Vesteralens Naturprodukter OY, Vicuron Holdings LLC, Vinci Farma S.A., W-L LLC, Warner Lambert, Warner Lambert Ilac Sanayi ve Ticaret Limited Sirketi, Warner Lambert del Uruguay S.A., Warner-Lambert (Thailand) Limited, Warner-Lambert Company AG, Warner-Lambert Company LLC, Warner-Lambert Guatemala Sociedad Anonima, Warner-Lambert S.A., Whitehall International Inc., Whitehall Laboratories Inc., Wyeth (Thailand) Ltd., Wyeth AB, Wyeth Australia Pty. Limited, Wyeth Ayerst Inc., Wyeth Ayerst S.a r.l., Wyeth Biopharma, Wyeth Canada ULC, Wyeth Consumer Healthcare LLC, Wyeth Europa Limited, Wyeth Farma S.A., Wyeth Holdings LLC, Wyeth Industria Farmaceutica Ltda., Wyeth KFT., Wyeth LLC, Wyeth Lederle S.r.l., Wyeth Lederle Vaccines S.A., Wyeth Pakistan Limited, Wyeth Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd., Wyeth Pharmaceuticals Company, Wyeth Pharmaceuticals FZ-LLC, Wyeth Pharmaceuticals LLC, Wyeth Pharmaceuticals Limited, Wyeth Puerto Rico Inc., Wyeth S.A.S, Wyeth Subsidiary Illinois Corporation, Wyeth Whitehall Export GmbH, Wyeth Whitehall SARL, Wyeth-Ayerst (Asia) Limited, Wyeth-Ayerst International LLC, and Wyeth-Ayerst Promotions Limited. STT on Wednesday said KRP began looking into the controversial posts already before a request for inquiry submitted by the Office of the Prosecutor General. THE NATIONAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION (KRP) believes there is no reason to open a pre-trial investigation into the much-discussed old social media posts of Hussein al-Taee (SDP), a first-term Member of the Finnish Parliament, reports STT. Al-Taee on 29 April confirmed the authenticity of screenshots of the posts, extending an apology to everyone who has been offended by the derogatory language he used in reference to homosexuals, Jews, Sunnis and Somalis. I have gone through [the screenshots] over and over again, and I can say that they are unfortunately real, he admitted. I have no words to describe the embarrassment I feel about the prejudices, thoughts and language I have used. He has been on sick leave since Tuesday, 30 April. Iltalehti wrote on 2 May that the Office of the Prosecutor General has asked the police to evaluate whether the posts reach the threshold of crime. The request for inquiry was made at the behest of a private citizen, State Prosecutor Anu Mantila told YLE. Aleksi Teivainen HT Source: Uusi Suomi Its unlikely that the coalition formation talks will be easy, Andersson said in the Parliament House on Wednesday. [But] we also believe this is the composition thatll best allow us to promote our key objectives. THE COALITION FORMATION TALKS will not be a walk in the park, according to Li Andersson, the chairperson of the Left Alliance, and Juha Sipila, the chairperson of the Centre Party. Antti Rinne, the chairperson of the Social Democratic Party, on Wednesday announced in a press conference he will begin talks over forming a new coalition government with the Centre, Greens, Left Alliance and Swedish Peoples Party. He refrained from commenting on which issues he expects will be the most difficult in the negotiations between the five parties. I dont know what will be the most difficult issues. There are many difficult issues when were talking about the world around us, he said. One issue that is all but certain to cause friction between the parties are logging volumes. The Green League and Centre Party have rarely seen eye to eye on climate, environmental and forest policy. The former is currently demanding that logging volumes be decreased to a level that is sustainable from the viewpoint of climate and biodiversity, and the latter that wood use be increased moderately and that no measures to limit the sustainable use of forests be introduced. Im sure the environmental side will be one of the most difficult [topics], Pekka Haavisto, the chairperson of the Greens, conceded on Wednesday, according to Helsingin Sanomat. The Left Alliance is similarly demanding that logging volumes not be raised. The Green League and Social Democrats, in turn, have recently tussled about the massive bioproduct mill planned in Kemi, Western Lapland, by Metsa Group. Its perfectly clear that any decisions that would prevent this major investment wont be made in the upcoming coalition formation negotiations, Antti Lindtman, the chairperson of the Social Democratic Parliamentary Group, declared on 1 May. Metsa Group has also announced it is planning on building a new sawmill on its premises in Rauma, Western Finland. Its two major projects together would translate to a roughly six million cubic metre increase in wood use, bringing the total demand close to what is considered the upper limit for sustainable use. Aleksi Teivainen HT Source: Uusi Suomi A particular reason for [the collapse] was our stricter approach to economic policy, he stated in a press conference in the Parliament House on Wednesday. PRELIMINARY TALKS between the Social Democrats and National Coalition fell through due to differences of opinion on economic and tax policy, confirms Petteri Orpo, the chairperson of the National Coalition. Orpo also revealed that the parties sought to find common ground on economic, employment and tax policy and objectives for the electoral term for a total of five hours between Monday and Tuesday. But the tax policy outlines that we announced in our campaign and presented as our answers to the leader of the government formation process [] were evidently far from what the leader of the process thinks about the whole situation, he stated, drawing attention to measures to balance public finances and raise the employment rate to 75 per cent by 2023. Antti Rinne, the chairperson of the Social Democrats, announced yesterday his party will begin talks over forming a new coalition government with the Centre, Greens, Left Alliance and Swedish Peoples Party. If the parties can find an agreement on a government programme, the ruling coalition would hold 117 of the 200 seats in the Finnish Parliament. Both Li Andersson, the chairperson of the Left Alliance, and Juha Sipila, the chairperson of the Centre Party, gauged that the process will be far from straightforward. Jussi Halla-aho, the chairperson of the Finns Party, accused the Social Democrats of trying to provoke the right-wing party to exclude itself from the government formation process by moving its members to the far right of the session hall of the Finnish Parliament. We have been ready to co-operate throughout the process, he stated in a press release on Wednesday. The seating arrangement, he added, was revamped to ensure the five parties that began the coalition formation talks yesterday do not have to cite real reasons, such as immigration or climate policy, or overall image to rule out the Finns Party. The re-arrangement was carried out to guarantee easy access to to translation services to the Swedish Peoples Party. Aleksi Teivainen HT Source: Uusi Suomi Colonie A large hangar originally built for Eclipse Aviation's new jet is the new Northeast maintenance base for a fleet of 50-passenger Embraer regional jets. Airport and elected officials gathered Wednesday to welcome Piedmont Airlines, a unit of the American Airlines Group, to Albany International Airport. Airport CEO John O'Donnell described the ceremony as a reunion, pointing out that American had a maintenance base at the airport until 2003, when it was moved elsewhere. The new base already is operating and employs 45 aircraft mechanics and support workers. Bill Arndt, Piedmont's vice president of maintenance and engineering, said the airline expects to eventually have 72 employees. Piedmont has been hiring aircraft maintenance technicians, avionics technicians, quality control inspectors and aircraft parts clerk, offering technicians up to $17,500 in bonuses based on experience, and another $11,000 in incentives for veterans. The workers will be able to service up to three Embraer 145 50-seat aircraft a night. Piedmont is the third carrier to establish a maintenance base at Albany. United Express carrier Commutair already has a base on the other side of the airport that has approximately 140 employees who maintain the same type of jet as Piedmont, while Cape Air maintains a fleet of nine-passenger Cessna aircraft at its own base at the airport. "Geographically, Albany was very key," in terms of location, said Arndt. Embraer no longer manufactures the E-145 jet. Asked about longer-term plans for the facility, Arndt said that "we would like (to maintain) bigger aircraft down the road." Special Investigation 147 NY dams are 'unsound,' potentially dangerous Thousands of dams have not been inspected in over 20 years. Piedmont invested $3 million in the new facility, which it rents from the Albany County Airport Authority. Albany is the sixth maintenance base for Piedmont. Others are at Philadelphia International Airport, Charlotte-Douglas International Airport, Roanoke Blacksburg Regional Airport, Richmond International Airport, Harrisburg International Airport, and Salisbury Regional Airport. Albany may have been one of the nation's earliest international airports, according to O'Donnell. He said an early passenger flight, on Oct. 1, 1928, carried the first batch of U.S. mail to travel internationally by air, from Albany to Montreal. The airport eventually adopted the "international" moniker in the early 2000s. Washington As they negotiate a record fine against Facebook, federal privacy regulators sparked a debate in Congress Wednesday over how effective such penalties can be in preventing future abuses by big companies. Members of a House consumer protection subcommittee also gave a sympathetic hearing to the Federal Trade Commission's request for greater powers and funding to police privacy. "A large fine in a single case does not solve the problems that consumers face," said Rep. Jan Schakowsky, D-Ill., chairwoman of the Energy and Commerce subcommittee, at a hearing with the five members of the FTC. She said the agency needs more funding and authority "at a minimum to restore consumers' confidence." Rohit Chopra, one of the FTC commissioners, said that for some big companies, fines alone are a mere "parking ticket." "We cannot change behavior without finding out who at the top caused those problems," Chopra said. Although Schakowsky and Chopra didn't specifically mention Facebook, the giant social network was top of mind for lawmakers as the FTC appears close to ending its yearlong investigation of the company's privacy practices and looks to punish Facebook for alleged violations of users' privacy. The question is whether big fines can be just a cost of doing business for huge companies, failing to deter bad conduct. The fine against Facebook is expected to run as high as $5 billion stacked against the company's revenue of $55.8 billion last year. Rep. Michael Burgess, R-Texas, said even a large fine "is inconsequential for a company the size of Facebook." The FTC is considering a rare action to hold Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg personally accountable for Facebook's alleged failure to honor a 2011 agreement over privacy lapses. The agency also may limit how Facebook targets advertising to its massive user base potentially making the action far more than a regulatory slap on the wrist. Beyond the fine, comprehensive action by the FTC could mark a watershed in federal action against the tech industry in the name of consumer privacy. Special Investigation 147 NY dams are 'unsound,' potentially dangerous Thousands of dams have not been inspected in over 20 years. By usual practice, the FTC an independent agency is split, with three Republicans and two Democrats. FTC Chairman Joseph Simons has advocated tougher enforcement action against tech companies and must obtain the agreement of at least two other commissioners for any action on Facebook. In his testimony, Simons urged the lawmakers to enact privacy and data-security legislation to be enforced by the FTC. The agency has brought more than 65 data security cases and 60 general privacy cases and helped return more than $1.6 billion to consumers in the fiscal year ended in October, Simons noted. Lawmakers have started work on a new national privacy law that could sharply curtail the ability of the biggest tech companies to collect and make money off people's personal data. The role of the FTC as an enforcer of privacy protections is a key issue in the debate over legislation. Consumer privacy advocates and Democratic lawmakers say the agency currently lacks teeth and have pushed for expanding its powers and funding. The FTC doesn't have the authority, for example, to levy civil money penalties for first violations for most unfair or deceptive practices. It can only issue orders halting the conduct, as it did with Facebook in 2011. The agency would be expected to write new privacy rules should Congress pass a new law. Schenectady Two state lawmakers want to block the St. Clare's Corp. from legally disappearing before a financial investigation can be made into the collapse of the former hospital's pension fund. On Thursday, Sen. James Tedisco and Assemblyman Angelo Santabarbara introduced a proposed law to prevent the corporation from dissolving, something that its officials are currently seeking in court over objections from workers. More than 1,100 former workers at St. Clare's, which was merged into Ellis Hospital by a state order in 2008, have either gotten a 30 percent pension cut or lost their pension completely. This spring, corporation officials said the pension fund was more than $53 million short of what is needed. Currently, a state Supreme Court justice in Schenectady County is considering the dissolution request by St. Clare's Corp. Both lawmakers said questions on how the fund failed must be answered first, given that the state provided $28.5 million to the fund as part of the merger after St. Clare's officials said it was enough to sustain pensions for workers' lifetimes. However, pension projections provided to the state in 2008 by St. Clare's that formed the basis of the state support proved to be wildly inaccurate. By 2019, the projections showed the fund would have a peak balance of nearly $46 million, according to a copy of the 2008 agreement recently provided by the state Health Department to the Albany Times Union under a Freedom of Information Law request. Those projections indicated that the fund would have paid out about $26 million in benefits from 2008 to 2019, which would have been more than offset by more than $37 million in earnings on the fund's investments. But this spring, when the corporation decided to terminate the fund, it had a balance of just $30 million, a shortfall of $16 million from the projection made a decade earlier. According to the state agreement, these figures were provided to St. Clare's by the Philadelphia-based accounting firm of Smart Business Advisory and Consulting, which itself collapsed in 2011 after mismanaging its own debts. St. Clare's Corp. President Joe Pofit has blamed pension woes on the recession that started in 2008 and left the fund too cash-starved to recover as the recessions receded. He has said the fund would have run out of money by 2024 if benefits were not slashed or eliminated. Founded in Schenectady by Catholic priests and Franciscans in 1949, St. Clare's from its beginnings has been linked to the Albany Roman Catholic Diocese. Bishop Edward Scharfenberger, like other bishops before him, also served on the hospital's board of directors. Scharfenberger is also a member of the St. Clare's Corp. "Although the corporation is separate from the diocese, as a board member, Bishop Scharfenberger has no objection to an audit or investigation by the proper authority," according to a statement from his office. The bishop "remains committed to assisting former St. Clare's employees and has met privately with some key pensioners," it continued. "We've already formally asked the Governor, Attorney General and Comptroller to look into what happened to the St. Clare's pension fund and the taxpayer dollars that were spent on it more than a decade ago, but they have yet to do so," said Tedisco, a Republican from Glenville. Co-sponsored by Santabarbara, a Rotterdam Democrat, the law aims to prevent the state Department of State from issuing a dissolution certificate to the corporation. Such a step would "put the brakes on shutting down the legal authority that controlled the pension fund until the state does its due diligence and gets to the bottom of what happened to the money to prevent something like this from happening again, and find a course to make things right for the 1,100 pensioners," Tedisco added. Special Investigation 147 NY dams are 'unsound,' potentially dangerous Thousands of dams have not been inspected in over 20 years. Santabarbara called the attempt by St. Clare's Corp. to end its legal existence "untimely and unacceptable ... We have certainly not given up on trying to find a solution to fully restore the pension fund and neither should the corporation." The effort to keep the St. Clare's Corp. from disappearing was welcomed by advocates for the workers. "We love this idea. This is just what we have been asking for," said David Pratt, a labor law professor at Albany Law School who is helping the former hospital staffers. Pratt called circumstances around the pension fund's collapse "a detective story," adding that both former workers and state taxpayers need to know how the fund performed in the years prior to its crisis, especially since the corporation "wants to fold up its tents without any disclosures at all." A copy of the 2008 agreement between St. Clare's, the state Health Department, the state Comptroller's Office, and the Attorney General that references the $28.5 million state grant to the pension also references periodic reports that St. Clare's was to make on how grant money was handled. Asked about the reporting requirements in the 2008 agreement, and the potential existence of reports to state officials on the pension fund's ongoing actual performance, the Health Department press office issued this statement: "Per the contract, the department received from St. Clare's Corporation a closure plan, surrender of the hospital operating certificate, and confirmation of the $28.5 million payment DOH made to their (pension) account. A final report detailing these actions was submitted in August of 2008." A spokesman for state Comptroller Tom DiNapoli said that office possessed no such reports on the pension fund's performance subsequent to 2008. The state Attorney General's Office could not provide a comment on that same inquiry. During the 1990s, officials at St. Clare's Hospital also sought and received federal approval for a religious exemption for its pension, which up to that point was federally insured as a private plan. The hospital then got a $90,000 refund for its previous premiums, but the plan was then left unprotected from fiscal calamity. By dropping the insurance, the fund was also exempted from government requirements that could have alerted former workers of financial underperformance. NORTHUMBERLAND Brothers Bill and Neil Peck operate the Welcome Stock Farm in this rural community on the east side of Saratoga County. Six generations of the Peck family have been farming the land there, dating back to 1836. And while dairy farming may seem like a simple business to the average person, it's anything but that especially since falling milk prices, rising labor costs and stringent regulation make earning a profit extremely difficult. "We have to make a product that is competitive on the international market," Bill Peck said from his office at the farm on Thursday morning. As sophisticated as dairy farming has become in the global economy, it's surprising to learn that Bill Peck and his brother Neil are also considering entering into a new venture that involves their farm: natural gas production. The Pecks won't be fracking or digging for natural gas on their farm. In fact, they can find a natural gas source right under their feet: in the manure that the 1,000 cows they own produce every day. Every one of the farm's dairy cows eats 115 pounds of feed and 30 gallons of water a day and in turn produces roughly 10 gallons of milk daily. So where does the rest of that food and water go? Each cow also produces about 15 gallons of manure per day, all of which is collected into the farm's manure lagoon before it is spread out on the farm's fields by truck. The cost of spreading the manure out on the fields and ensuring that the farm complies with its environmental permits is costly about $350,000 a year. So when National Grid officials came to the Peck brothers and suggested they could make extra money turning their manure into natural gas, they listened. The process isn't cheap or easy, and requires construction of an on-site "digester" that helps turn the manure into methane, which can be used to make electricity. If it is cleaned further, it can be sold as natural gas to utilities like National Grid. "You're making another product that has value," Bill Peck said. The Peck brothers haven't decided yet if they will get into the biogas business. But National Grid recently completed a $4 million, compressed natural gas station in the town of Moreau where the utility can "inject" natural gas into its gas transmission network during periods of peak demand. The Moreau CNG station is part of a larger, $70 million gas pipeline project that has been proposed by the utility. Special Investigation 147 NY dams are 'unsound,' potentially dangerous Thousands of dams have not been inspected in over 20 years. Called the "Albany Loop," the project is designed to add reliability and redundancy to the utility's natural gas network. David Zielinski, National Grid's director of gas instrumentation and regulation for New York state, said the Moreau station was built in part in Saratoga County with the thought that one day it could be used as a convenient place for methane gas produced by local farmers to be injected into National Grid's transmission network, a move that would help reduce the utility's reliance on fossil fuels. "It's easily conceivable that we could use it for renewable natural gas as well," Zielinski said. Of course, the Pecks aren't sure yet if they can afford all the equipment that would be needed to make natural gas from manure, including a "scrubber" that would clean the methane gas before it could be used in National Grid's system. The entire cost would be in the range of millions of dollars. The Pecks say they have been approached by some energy investors who have suggested that their farm could team up with other local farms to share the equipment, but nothing is concrete. National Grid has suggested that it could perhaps buy a scrubber and locate it at the Moreau CGN station. "We're contemplating should we be investing in the scrubbers," said Laurie Poltynski, National Grid's eastern New York regional executive, "so we can take that burden off the farmers." The spring concert season is just winding down and audiences are already planning their summer musical excursions. Meanwhile, you can hear sighs of relief from the worn-out administrators who are responsible for series that run fall through spring. If there's one producer who has earned a good long rest, it's Derek Delaney, artistic director of the Union College Concert Series. Fifteen concerts were packed into his season that opened Oct. 14. As usual, the lineup had major artists and rising stars from the international scene. There was also an unusually high number of cancellations due to weather and illness and they came in rather quick succession three concerts in the four months. First, a major snowstorm forced the cancellation of a joint recital of tenor Mark Padmore and pianist Paul Lewis scheduled for Sunday, Jan. 20. Their collaboration was such a rare alignment of two stars that it was impossible to reschedule. There's probably no decision more excruciating than having to cancel an important program due to weather. Just like school superintendents, concert producers pay close watch to weather predictions and wait as long as possible before canceling, on the off chance that a storm turns in another direction. Delaney sent out word about 24 hours in advance. The next day, the Facebook page for the series read: "We sit at home, snowed in, and slightly crestfallen without our performance today." After that came a plug for the highly anticipated season finale with Mitsuko Uchida in late April. The next three Union events went off without a hitch. Then came the March 31 recital by Piotr Anderszewski, a 50-year old Polish pianist who was to perform his signature work, the Beethoven "Diabelli" Variations. Unfortunately, Anderszewski was forced to cancel his entire American tour due to illness. Thanks to strong ties with artist managers, Delaney was able to pull another virtuoso out of his hat. Two days prior to the scheduled event, he notified subscribers of Anderszewski's withdrawal and the substitution of superstar Yefim Bronfman, long a Union College favorite. Rather than his typical barnstorming repertoire of Prokofiev, Rachmaninoff and Beethoven, Bronfman performed Debussy, Schumann and Schubert. But health problems interfered once again and Uchida ended up canceling her matinee scheduled for Saturday, April 27. Even on Union's glittery roster, Uchida is a standout. It was big news when she performed two dates in 2017, her first appearance for the series in 10 years. She and Delaney also have a long professional association, which has to be a factor in her return engagements. A sold-out house was expected, as Delaney warned audiences at the April 12 concert of Artemis String Quartet that if they'd not already secured tickets for Uchida, then they might be out of luck. Amazingly, Delaney got another high caliber substitute, Jonathan Biss. The 38-year-old pianist has become a regular at the series, where he appeared in early December. He even helped select the Steinway that was purchased for the hall a few years back. Biss wasn't able to keep the exact date but committed to perform a matinee on the following day, Sunday, April 28. Before coming to town, he gave a three-night run of the Schumann Piano Concert with the Philadelphia Orchestra and Yannick Nezet-Seguin. He was scheduled to fly to Europe the following day, where he was to give three chamber music programs in Holland. Biss was obviously doing a favor for Delaney, the series and local audiences, but it was too much for him. Though he got through three Beethoven sonatas in the concert's first half, the demanding Opus 111 after intermission proved too taxing. According to some who were in attendance, he stopped playing not long into the first movement, apologized and left the stage. He came back out rather quickly, took his seat at the keyboard and began again yet was unable to continue for much longer. Delaney helped him exit and announced a break, only to return a short while later to announce that the concert was over. One observer said that Delaney was in tears and reminded audiences that great musicians are also human. Seth Lachterman, writing on NewYorkArts.net, described Biss' performance in the first half as rushed but also "piquant and passionate," and his onstage episode after intermission as a "near syncope" (loss of consciousness). The following day Delaney sent out an email explaining that Biss, who had been attended backstage by a doctor, had been suffering from dehydration and was on his way to a full recovery. Nevertheless, the pianist canceled his week in Europe. So why rehash all of this in a column after the fact? Great musical moments happen in Union's Memorial Chapel on a regular basis, but Biss' efforts were heroic. What's more, a midconcert illness is rare and is therefore worthwhile news for the larger music community. As I piece together this column about an impresario's efforts to keep concerts on track despite weather and illness, and a pianist's public struggle to overcome exhaustion, I think of all the behind the scenes documentaries and biopics that pop music fans get to enjoy. There are also the talent shows like "American Idol" that, amid the hoopla, offer perspective and insight into how careers are made. And I wonder why classical music organizations always want to pull the curtain over the struggles and setbacks that are an inconvenient but inescapable part of making great music. Maybe sometimes all of us indulge in the escapist fantasy that classical music is some sort of magical occurrence and that concerts are "Brigadoon" moments, that recede into the ether immediately after the last standing ovation. This season at Union College showed us that concerts are a very human undertaking. Joseph Dalton is a freelance writer based in Troy. GUILDERLAND There's a really cool punk rock resurgence going on in the UK and Ireland right now. Rooted in the hardcore and post-punk sounds of the late 1970s and early 1980s, bands like Shame and the Natterers are taking the sonic templates of the genre and repurposing them, freshening them up and making them relevant to a new generation of disillusioned, anti-establishment listeners. Idles, from Bristol, England, is another one of these bands and on Wednesday, it came to the Capital Region. Originally slated to take place at the Hollow in Albany, the show sold out quickly and was moved to the larger Jupiter Hall at Crossgates, also sold out by the time the concert's start time. The switch to the larger venue was a wise decision. Not only did it help make Idles (and the show's promoter) more money at the gate, it afforded more people the opportunity to experience one of the most exciting live performances so far this year. Idles went hard for about 90 minutes on Wednesday with a set that mixed the madcap post-punk of early Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds with lyrics and a vocal delivery from frontman Joe Talbot that blended the wry delivery and phrasing of Johnny Rotten with the political consciousness of the late Joe Strummer. But while the aesthetics hearken back to the halcyon days of punk rock, Idles' performance highlighted how the group is helping to move the genre forward. Throughout, Idles maintained the energy and audience interplay that first made punk a breath of fresh air. During "Love Song," lead guitarist Mark Bowen set his guitar atop a swarm of upraised arms in the mosh pit and let the fans have at it, before pulling it back for some wild riffing. Later in the evening, during "Mother," Bowen hopped off the stage and played in the middle of the pit. His cohort, rhythm guitarist Lee Kiernan, roamed to the back of the audience to play during "Well Done" and repeated the guitar atop the crowd trick in the middle of a powerhouse cover of Solomon Burke's "Cry to Me." These interactions, while making for memorable musical theater, weren't what make Idles special or different from a typical punk or punk-inspired band. That would be the message behind the music. What Idles does that advances its style of music is the way it uses punishing melodies and aggression to mock the genre and masculinity tropes that seeped into punk and instead offer up a social consciousness rooted in basic decency and self-love. For example, "Never Fight a Man with a Perm" has a hot riff and Talbot sings with a snarling sarcasm. But if you listen to the words, he's lampooning the jacked up, greased-back hair image of the stereotypical hardcore scenester and encourages hugging it out instead of fighting it out. Or "Samaritans," which Talbot prefaced with an encouragement to be unafraid to share your feelings with others. While drummer John Beavis and bassist Adam Devonshire blasted out a manic, fast-paced rhythm, he hollered, "I'm a real boy boy and I cry, I like myself and I want to try." The anthemic "Danny Nedelko" was a "celebration of difference" prefaced with a reminder that both England and the U.S. were "built on immigration." "Divide and Conquer" was dedicated to the merits of England's national health service and addressed the disinformation Talbot sees spread about his home country's national health insurance. The concepts of loving yourself, being unafraid of vulnerability and staying mindful of the human condition and people's well-being were also repeated throughout Idles' time on stage. Sometimes that meant Talbot thanking fans for coming out and making the night possible. At other points, it took the form of gentle encouragement to the audience to not beat the hell out of each other in the pit and respect people that were trying to avoid any physicality on the floor. And it was the centerpiece of two of the last songs of the night "Television," a track Talbot wrote to encourage his daughter to ignore the expectations and pressures of popular culture and set closer "Rottweiler." Talbot dedicated that one to "the despicable racist right wing press in our country and yours." It was explosive and ended in a wall of distortion and feedback from Bowen, Devonshire and Kiernan. When it ended, a fan nearby could be heard saying, "I'm so glad I didn't miss that." Prior to Idles' set, Dublin, Ireland's Fontaines D.C. ripped through a half-hour set. Another one of the burgeoning overseas punk bands, Fontaines D.C. played the bulk of its recently released, critically acclaimed debut. While lacking the forceful personalities and performative flair of Idles, the group performed its material flawlessly and energetically. The more confined space of the Hollow would have worked better to Fontaines D.C.'s no frills, no nonsense, no banter with the audience style of playing. The space is bright and simple with a stainless-steel buffet table cleaned and shut down for the day, and a lone server who asks us to order at the counter before relenting apparently as we are the only guests and waiting on our table. A smoke detector emits sharp peeps every few seconds before finally erupting in piercing shrieks that prompt her to open the front door, spilling the noise onto rain-soaked Central Avenue already splashing the windows with moving headlights and neon signs. Madina Sweets is the new kid on a dense restaurant block of Central, where Vietnamese, Afghan, Yemeni and Caribbean outposts are sandwiched between halal marts, barbershops and hair salons, one with a brilliantly clear No Kids, No Strollers sign on its door. It might be a stretch to call Madina Sweets "Mediterranean," as it does on the website, or The House of Refined Taste, per the subheading on the menu, or even its full name, a hyphenated string of "Pakistani, Indian, Bangladeshi and Middle Eastern" that suggests hedged bets and a larger menu than you'll actually find. But it is Indian, in the broad sense, leaning somewhat more to the north and Pakistan, where culinary boundaries overlap and halal beef is popular. In the hands of Riffat Islam, the Bangladeshi chef and co-owner, dishes also occasionally suggest Southeast Asian influence in flavors that skew sweet and thick, light sauces that pull flavor from spices without overpowering heat. Sweetness is in a sticky tamarind sauce accompanying the poppadum chutneys and in mahogany goat karahi, a cinnamon-tinged stew with slow-braised goat falling from cleaved bones. It's an interesting if little known fact that many Muslim Bangladeshis own or cook in Indian restaurants, helping craft the fusion cuisine broadly sold as "Indian" stateside. The culinary distinction of Bangladeshi food is hidden in redrawn maps following the 1947 partition of British India into East and West Pakistan and the 1971 Bangladeshi liberation war in which East Pakistan (East Bengal since 1956) became Bangladesh, and many Bangladeshi immigrants headed to the United States. Perhaps now Madina Sweets' long name makes more sense. More Information Madina Sweets and Restaurant 295 Central Ave., Albany Phone: 518-449-9000 Web: facebook.com/madina.sweets.restaurant Hours: 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday, Wednesday and Thursday; noon to 11 p.m. Saturday; noon to 10 p.m. Sunday; closed Tuesday. Price: Inexpensive. Food: Indian and Pakistani menu (takeout or eat-in) with Indian/Bangladeshi desserts boxed to go. Halal meat. Drink: Soft drinks, fruit lassi, spice teas. No liquor license. Ambiance: Modest, take out space, with pleasantly updated interior. Noise: 1 Good for: Lunch, dinner, solo dining, small groups, families. Noise rating: 1- quiet; 2 - comfortable/conversational; 3 - loud; 4 - disruptive. Price range: Inexpensive, Moderate, Somewhat Expensive, Very Expensive See More Collapse Sweets anchor Bangladeshi cuisine, and it is no surprise to find fried, syrup-glazed jilapi swirls (jalebi) bagged for sale, and a pastry cooler half-full of spongy, pistachio-dusted dessert dumplings like milk dough gulab jamun, sweet white rosgala (rasgulla) and Bengali cham cham, all holding their body weight in fragrant rose, saffron or cardamom syrup. They are made and boxed in-house and sold, mostly in packs of six, by the pound. My mind is on the baingan bhartha, a delicious Punjabi and Bangladeshi specialty of mashed skinless eggplant with green peas, and lamb rogan josh, the succulent "red lamb" stew with its distinct ginger flavor and sierra hue from garam masala, turmeric and pureed tomatoes. Like karahi, the sauce is tinged with garlic, cumin, ghee and yogurt and balanced with a pinch of sugar and citrus, perhaps lemon or shatkora, a Bangladeshi bitter lime. Mulligatawny soup, a legacy dish of British rule, is thicker than usual, a comforting, creamy bowl of pureed chickpeas, carrots and apples stained turmeric yellow; sweet, nutty chana dal, rich with ghee and split yellow peas, has subtle spicy heat, while softly formed potato, carrot and paneer cheese malai kofta (vegetable balls) are enriched with softened cashews in a tomato-cashew cream. A red plastic basket of battered appetizers glistens with oil, and we pluck out puffy samosas filled with potatoes and peas, and spiky onion pakora dusted in chickpea flour and fried. The pappadums on top are pale, brittle discs; those underneath are overdone to coppery gold. Sign up for The Knick Get the latest news and some area history with our afternoon newsletter. Of course there's chicken tikka masala which originated in Britain and is now as ubiquitous as General Tso's in Chinese takeouts, but there's also lamb do piaza, a Southern Indian and Persian "two onions" dish, plus diced balochi chicken in a chile-ginger-garlic paste, a Pakistani recipe equally at home in an Iranian or Afghan kitchen. We mop up sauces with white pilau rice, soft naan and chapatti stiffer than the expected floppy folds. Later, I spot fried tilapia on their Facebook page, a recognizable Bangladeshi special, and wish I had known before. There's no liquor license, so we sip milky spiced masala tea and doodh patti (plain tea with milk) throughout our meal. They are brought in paper to-go cups with lids, which at least keep them warm. A finale of sweet creamy kheer rice pudding sprinkled with cardamom before paying at the counter, and we're out on the street, comfortably full. The building owner, Mohammed Sajid, from Pakistan, transformed his former business, Empire Cash and Carry, with a coat of orange paint, stainless-steel lights and the persistent trend for oversized floor tiles. A daytime buffet of around 12 dishes is ideal for dining alone and a steal at $7 for in the week ($8 on weekends), while the $10 buffet on Friday and Saturday nights makes a cheap feast before a show at The Low Beat or The Linda. It helps that Madina Sweets is the last building on the block, ideally located beside a city-owned lot where parking is just 25 cents an hour. Buffet lunch or dinner for one costs from $6.99 to $9.99, before tax and tip. A-la-carte dinner for three will cost around $65 with tax, before tip. Susie Davidson Powell is a British freelance food writer in upstate New York. Follow her on Twitter, @SusieDP. To comment on this review, visit the Table Hopping blog, blog.timesunion.com/tablehopping. Do you recall that chilling shot in "The Exorcist" of the ancient demonic statue unearthed from a Middle Eastern desert? A similarly sinister statue plays a key role in "Hail Satan?," a wry, thought-provoking documentary directed by onetime Troy resident Penny Lane. Depicting a goat-headed deity called Baphomet, this statue emerged from an internet crowdfunding campaign launched by a group that traces its roots all the way back to 2013, and Tallahassee. "Hail Satan?" tracks the rise of the Satanic Temple, a cheeky activist group that runs with the devil less out of occultist beliefs than a reverence for puckish rebellion. The group first gained notice with its 2013 news conference at the Florida Capitol in "support" of Gov. Rick Scott's efforts to get prayer in schools. Scott also was helping little satanists, Temple members told a crowd consisting mostly of media. Its press savvy helped the group, headquartered in a black house in ... wait for it ... Salem, Mass., spread the word and draw like-minded activists. The six-year-old group now counts more than a dozen chapters. Free speech and religious pluralism are primary aims, but the Temple also has used its agitprop on behalf of LGBTQ and abortion rights. Members held a "Pink Mass" over the grave of the mother of anti-gay minister Fred Phelps, posthumously declaring her a lesbian. Then there's the prop-prop, Baphomet. Conceived as a counter-measure to a Ten Commandments monument at the Oklahoma Capitol, the statue was supposed to go next to the commandments, to represent religious pluralism. But before that could happen, the Oklahoma Supreme Court ordered the original monument removed, citing separation of church and state. Sign up for The Knick Get the latest news and some area history with our afternoon newsletter. Although the Baphomet statue never was installed, the Temple subsequently has trucked it out for photo ops. The sculptor left room on its lap for people to sit, Temple co-founder and deadpan spokesman Lucien Greaves points out. Greaves also gives a shout-out to the late Anton LaVey, who ran the Church of Satan from his black house in San Francisco, as forebear of the Temple's "modern satanism." The Temple's version seems a lot more modern than LaVey's. The Santa Cruz chapter picks up litter as part of an adopt-a-beach program, for goodness sake. During her Capital Region years, Lane earned a master's in fine arts at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and helped found the Sanctuary for Independent Media. Her approach can seem too determinedly light, as if she wants to get across how much satanists are just like us. She barely touches on the growing pains inevitable to a group that experienced such a quick expansion. "Hail Satan?" is too lacking in conflict (apart from the eternal one) to be a true study of a movement. But it's a highly entertaining survey. Corinth A Corinth woman faces several charges after an assault that took place Tuesday in the village, Saratoga County sheriff's deputies said. Tosha Jeremias, 35, was charged with felony burglary, misdemeanor assault, two misdemeanor counts of endangering the welfare of a child and harassment, a violation, in connection with the incident, deputies said. Jeremias was arraigned and jailed in lieu of $3,000 bail and ordered to appear in court May 14. SCHODACK An East Greenbush police officer avoided jail time and a felony conviction when he accepted a deal to plead guilty in Schodack Town Court Wednesday to a misdemeanor in return for agreeing to resign and pay a $300 fine. Officer Warren Kretzschmar, 47, was discovered to have stolen razor blades, detergent pods and air fresheners in his home last fall when he was arrested by the State Police as part of an state Attorney Generals investigation. Kretzschmar pleaded guilty to fifth-degree criminal possession of stolen property before Town Justice Paul Peter satisfying that charge and the felony count of first-degree scheme to defraud that he faced. Assistant Attorney General Christopher Baynes told the judge that the plea was acceptable. Kretzschmar declined to comment as he left court at 5:30 p.m. after paying the fine. Kretzchmars lawyer Cheryl Coleman said the former officer made a mistake. He paid a significant price for it, Coleman said. Kretzschmar gave up a job he'd held for 15 years. He earned $81,661 in 2018, according to the website SeeThroughNY.net/payrolls. At 7 p.m., the East Greenbush Town Board held a minutes-long special meeting, voting 5-0 to accept Kretzschmars resignation. This has been an unfortunate chapter in the towns recent past, Supervisor Jack Conway said. Kretzschmar was placed on paid administrative leave by the town when he was arrested in September. That was after troopers arrived with a search warrant to search his home. Special Investigation 147 NY dams are 'unsound,' potentially dangerous Thousands of dams have not been inspected in over 20 years. Kretzschmar was arrested at the end of his shift at East Greenbush Police Department headquarters. He was charged with misdemeanor fifth-degree criminal possession of stolen property. Before his arrest, Kretzschmar had never been accused of misconduct, according to town authorities. The case was transferred from East Greenbush to Schodack Town Court to avoid conflicts of interest. Kretzschmar saw the additional felony count of first-degree scheme to defraud later, according to court records. Kretzschmar was allegedly working with two others who were stealing the items and turning them over to him, according to people familiar with the charges. Kretzschmar was placed on paid administrative leave until last month when he was put on unpaid leave for 30 days, according to officials. ALBANY The Albany Police Department is seeking the public's help in locating a missing college student. University at Albany student John Carlos Garcia-Mendez, 21, was last seen on Myrtle Avenue in Albany at 1 p.m. Tuesday. Garcia-Mendez is described as being five feet, three inches tall and weighs around 170 pounds. He has black hair and brown eyes. If you have information about this case, please call the NYS Missing Persons Clearinghouse at 1-800-346-3543 or contact the Albany Police Department. TROY A married city couple admitted in court Thursday that they allowed animals to live in filth at their Campbell Avenue home. Originally accused of hoarding 101 animals, David and Michelle Hempstead pleaded guilty in City Court Thursday to 17 misdemeanor counts of injuring an animal under the state Agriculture and Markets law, according to the Rensselaer County District Attorney's Office. They face up to two years in jail when they are sentenced Aug. 1 by Judge Christopher Maier, prosecutors said. Michelle Hempstead still faces two additional charges of selling or offering to sell or exposing a disease animal. The district attorneys office did not enter into any plea negotiations with the defendants which could have led to the defendants decision to plea to the entire docket pending before the Court. Michelle Hempsteads remaining cases are still pending before the Court and are proceeding towards trial, the prosecutions release stated. The Hempsteads were arrested in December when city police went to their home at 92 Campbell Ave. The officers discovered the animals encrusted in feces, infested with fleas and worms, and suffering hair loss from scratching. Authorities took 38 dogs, 38 cats, six ferrets, 18 birds and a hedgehog to the Mohawk Hudson Humane Society in Menands. Special Investigation 147 NY dams are 'unsound,' potentially dangerous Thousands of dams have not been inspected in over 20 years. Many of the animals were adopted, city police said previously. A group of animal rights activists organized as a group called Justice for the Hundred has protested outside the City Court building when the Hempsteads have appeared in court. District Attorney Mary Pat Donnelly commended Det. Sgt. John Keeler, Det. Sgt. Randall French, the Mohawk Hudson Humane Society and Chief Assistant District Attorney Matthew Hauf for their work on the case. ALBANY The University at Albany is creating a special commission to look at the "future of Greek life" and officials say the continued existence of fraternities and sororities is not guaranteed going forward. The news came in a notice Wednesday to faculty and staff from Michael Christakis, vice president for student affairs. It references a recent death at the University at Buffalo from a suspected hazing incident, as well as the "broader national conversation on the issue." "While many of our Greek-letter social organizations contribute positively to campus life, we also continue to receive numerous reports regarding destructive behaviors by fraternity and sorority members that sadly overshadow the good works of their fellow students," the notice states. "Given the broader national conversation on this issue and the recent tragic death of a University at Buffalo student, I feel compelled to take stronger action. Effective today, I am establishing a Commission on the Future of Greek Life at UAlbany." The notice goes on to say: "The Commission will solicit testimony from Greek organizations, other stakeholders and experts, review documents, engage national organizations and research best practices, concluding with a final report to me with recommendations no later than December 1, 2019. I will then present this report to President Rodriguez and the University's senior leadership. "For now, I am reserving a decision on whether to allow Greek organizations to conduct new-member intake in the fall. But I want to be clear about what is at stake. Just as no conclusion has been predetermined, none is off the table and the future of Greek life at UAlbany is not guaranteed." There are 37 Greek houses serving UAlbany students. But only 24 are in good standing. Most of the others are on suspension for hazing investigations or for violating their home office policies or campus policies. Greek Suspensions by rkarlin on Scribd It wasn't immediately clear if other State University of New York campuses were instituting similar commissions to study Greek housing. But UAlbany's move comes after a tragedy at Buffalo and increased scrutiny of Greek life nationwide. In April, a University at Buffalo freshman, Sebastian Serafin-Bazan, of Westchester County, died after suffering a cardiac arrest when ordered to perform exercises in a house associated with the Sigma Pi fraternity, said police interviewed by the Buffalo News. The University at Buffalo at the time indefinitely suspended all fraternity and sorority activities. Then in early May, Swarthmore College's two fraternities disbanded after students at the Pennsylvania school stormed and occupied one of the Greek houses, Phi Psi. That came amid complaints that administrators ignored complaints of sexual assault there. Special Investigation 147 NY dams are 'unsound,' potentially dangerous Thousands of dams have not been inspected in over 20 years. And at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy, President Shirley Jackson, citing complaints of alcohol abuse and sexual assaults, launched a crackdown on Greek houses. Currently, the recruiting period for Greek houses has been pushed back into second semester. Fraternity and sorority members say that makes it harder to recruit members. They've also contended that alcohol and abuse are not problems that are limited to Greek houses. At UAlbany, Greek housing is off campus. There are 37 Greek-lettered social organizations, with 19 fraternities and 18 sororities. Currently, 24 of them are considered in good standing with most of the others under investigation for possible hazing or having lost official university recognition for violating school or their home organizations' rules. At UAlbany, the number of students participating in Greek life is also small. As of this spring, there were 439 Greek members among the school's 13,600 undergraduates and 18,000 total student body. rkarlin@timesunion.com 518-454-5758 @RickKarlinTU A New York City woman who was convicted of pushing another woman in front of a Times Square subway train more than two years ago killed herself on Wednesday. Melanie T. Liverpool, 33, was found dead at the Bedford Hills Correctional Facility in Beford, according to State Police. [May 09, 2019] AmeriHealth Caritas Appoints Scott Westover Market President of Its New Hampshire Plan AmeriHealth Caritas, a national leader in Medicaid managed care and other health care solutions for those most in need, announced that it has appointed Scott Westover as market president of its New Hampshire plan, AmeriHealth Caritas New Hampshire. In this role, Westover will be responsible for the plan's strategic direction, growth, and leadership. He will also serve as the plan's primary point of contact with the state of New Hampshire. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190509005111/en/ AmeriHealth Caritas New Hampshire Market President Scott Westover. Photo courtesy AmeriHealth Caritas. Westover has more than 15 years of experience working with New Hampshire health care organizations. His local experience includes working for leading health care providers, directing a Medicaid health plan, and driving national health strategy for multiple Forune 50 corporations. He most recently served as vice president, provider joint ventures and national accounts for Anthem, Inc. Westover holds a bachelor's degree from New England College and a Master of Business Administration degree from Franklin Pierce College. He grew up in Milford, New Hampshire, and now lives in the Concord area. "As we expand into New Hampshire, we are fortunate to have found a leader who has a strong understanding of the state's Medicaid population and a belief in our mission to help people get care, stay well, and to build healthy communities," said AmeriHealth Caritas Chairman and CEO Paul Tufano. "Scott's background and expertise will be highly valuable to us as we build relationships with New Hampshire Medicaid enrollees, caregivers, providers, and advocacy groups; and support the state in its work to provide high quality, sustainable health care for its citizens." "AmeriHealth Caritas has the right attitude for New Hampshire - putting members first and working with doctors and other health care providers to improve the lives of their patients. I'm excited to focus on helping people in my home state," said Westover. "Families benefit from the programs AmeriHealth Caritas Family of Companies offers to help them address socioeconomic factors that influence their health. It's a privilege to serve AmeriHealth Caritas' membership in New Hampshire." About AmeriHealth Caritas New Hampshire AmeriHealth Caritas New Hampshire is a managed care organization that will begin serving enrollees in New Hampshire's Medicaid Care Management program beginning in September 2019. AmeriHealth Caritas New Hampshire will help the state's Medicaid population get care, stay well, and build healthy communities by addressing the acute and broader social factors that drive health outcomes. About AmeriHealth Caritas AmeriHealth Caritas is one of the nation's leaders in health care solutions for those most in need. Operating in 11 states and the District of Columbia, AmeriHealth Caritas serves more than 5 million Medicaid, Medicare, and Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) members through its integrated managed care products, pharmaceutical benefit management and specialty pharmacy services, and behavioral health services. Headquartered in Philadelphia, AmeriHealth Caritas is a mission-driven organization with more than 35 years of experience serving low-income and chronically ill populations. AmeriHealth Caritas is part of the Independence Health Group in partnership with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan. For more information, visit www.amerihealthcaritas.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190509005111/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 09, 2019] Apple Carnegie Library Opens Saturday in Washington, D.C. Apple (News - Alert) today previewed its newest location at the Carnegie Library on Mount Vernon Square. This is Apple's most extensive historic restoration project to date, restoring and revitalizing the Beaux-Arts style building once home to Washington, D.C.'s Central Public Library. Originally funded by Andrew Carnegie and opened in 1903, the library will once again be a center for learning, discovery and creativity for the community, keeping with Carnegie's vision of a public and free space for all. Apple Carnegie Library will host free daily Today at Apple programming, including sessions led by local artists and world class creators. To celebrate the opening, 40 artists will lead sessions during the six-week StoryMaker Festival. At the store, customers can explore Apple's latest products and work with over 225 highly trained staff members offering advice and technical support, as well as assistance for small businesses. "Whether customers come to explore new products, visit one of our Geniuses or unlock their creativity in a Today at Apple session, Apple Carnegie Library is a place for everyone," said Deirdre O'Brien, Apple's senior vice president of Retail + People. "We are excited to share this magnificent space with all of our visitors in Washington, D.C., and to provide a home for inspiration for the next generation." Carnegie Library on Mount Vernon Square also features the new DC History Center, which includes the Kiplinger Research Library, three galleries and a museum store, all owned and operated by the 125-year-old Historical Society of Washington, D.C. To restore the building to its original grandeur, Apple worked with conservation experts to carefully preserve the historic facades, return interior spaces to their original footprints, and restore distinctive early 20th-century detailing. Foster + Partners worked in close collaboration with Apple's Chief Design Officer Jony Ive to give this cultural icon a new lease of life. "I love the synergy between old and new, the juxtaposition of the historic fabric and contemporary design," sad Ive. "In its 'new' phase of life, Apple Carnegie Library will be a way for us to share our ideas and excitement about the products we create, while giving people a sense of community and encouraging and nurturing creativity. It has been a significant honor to restore the Carnegie Library for the people of Washington, D.C." Visitors to Apple Carnegie Library are welcomed by a revitalized grand entry plaza on K Street, and a new grand entry staircase on Mount Vernon Place creates an inviting route through the building to the adjacent Convention Center and neighboring Shaw District. The library's Vermont marble facade and sculptures on the south are completely restored. A skylight that once illuminated the original library's circulation desk in the heart of the building returns with a new design to transform the space into a soaring double-height atrium. The dramatic gathering space, called the Forum, is the new home for Today at Apple in Washington, D.C. Visitors can attend free daily sessions focused on photography, filmmaking, music creation, coding, design and more. For six weeks following opening, the StoryMaker Festival will bring together 40 artists, poets, activists, musicians, photographers, filmmakers, lawmakers and community builders to celebrate storytelling and inspire attendees to tell their own stories. The festival will conclude with a weekend block party to celebrate the stories the community has come together to share. The area that housed the book stacks is now the Genius (News - Alert) Grove where Apple's team of Geniuses will offer personalized technical support and advice. A grand staircase leads to the DC History Center on the second floor and the Carnegie Gallery in the basement, which displays historic photographs and documents for the public to learn about the origins and history of the building. Nearly half of the store's employees are Washington, D.C. residents and others have joined from Apple stores across the region and country. The team speaks 27 languages, including more than 20 team members fluent in American Sign Language. Apple Carnegie Library and the DC History Center open at Carnegie Library on Mount Vernon Square Saturday at 10 a.m. To sign up for Today at Apple sessions, visit apple.com/today and the StoryMakers Festival page. Apple revolutionized personal technology with the introduction of the Macintosh in 1984. Today, Apple leads the world in innovation with iPhone (News - Alert), iPad, Mac, Apple Watch and Apple TV. Apple's four software platforms - iOS, macOS, watchOS and tvOS - provide seamless experiences across all Apple devices and empower people with breakthrough services including the App Store, Apple Music, Apple Pay and iCloud. Apple's more than 100,000 employees are dedicated to making the best products on earth, and to leaving the world better than we found it. NOTE TO EDITORS: For additional information visit Apple Newsroom (www.apple.com/newsroom), or call Apple's Media Helpline at (408) 974-2042. 2019 Apple Inc. All rights reserved. Apple, Today at Apple and the Apple logo are trademarks of Apple Inc. Other company and product names may be trademarks of their respective owners. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190509005373/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 09, 2019] Arkansas Virtual Academy Highlights Graduates with In-Person Commencement Ceremony Arkansas Virtual Academy (ARVA), an online public school serving K-12 students throughout the state, will celebrate the Class of 2019 at an in-person commencement ceremony on Saturday, May 11th. The ceremony will take place at the Connor Performing Arts Center at Pulaski Academy in Little Rock. Many assume that attending an online public school like ARVA means that students miss out on "real" high school experiences, but this in-person graduation proves quite the opposite. This year, ARVA will graduate more than 150 students, which is over 20% more than 2018. About a quarter of students are graduating with honors. For example, students Andrea DeTour and Kayla Regan-Sage are graduating at the top of their class. At least one of this year's graduates is a recipient of the Governor's Distinguished Scholarship for outstanding academic achievement. Collectively, the Class of 2019 reports it has been offered more than $500,000 in scholarships and have been accepted to trade schools, colleges and universities across the country, including: University of Arkansas, University of Arkansas at Little Rock, Arkansas State University, Pulaski Technical College, University of Central Arkansas, Salon Professonal Academy, and Northwest Arkansas Community College. "ARVA's Class of 2019 has shown the determination in their education that will serve them well in college and beyond," said ARVA's Head of School Amy Johnson. "Like most kids, they have struggled, and they have succeeded, but it is these life lessons that will set them up for success as they begin the next chapter of their lives." Kayla Regan-Sage will serve as valedictorian. Andrea DeTour will serve as salutatorian. Both students, as well as Ms. Johnson, will be available for media interviews. Students enroll in ARVA for a number of reasons-some are looking to escape bullying, some may have fallen academically off track, and others are looking for an alternative to the traditional brick-and-mortar classroom setting. ARVA students access a robust online curriculum in the core subjects of math, science, English language arts, history, art and music and a host of electives, and attend live virtual classes taught by state-licensed teachers. Details of the graduation ceremony are as follows: WHAT: Arkansas Virtual Academy 2019 Graduation Ceremony WHEN: Saturday, May 11, 2019, 1:00 PM CST WHERE: Connor Performing Arts Center, Pulaski Academy, 12701 Hinson Road, Little Rock, AR 72212 About Arkansas Virtual Academy Arkansas Virtual Academy is a full-time online public charter school serving students in grades K through 12. As part of the Arkansas public school system, ARVA is tuition-free and gives families the choice to access the engaging curriculum and tools provided by K12 Inc. (NYSE: LRN), the nation's leading provider of proprietary K-12 curriculum and online education programs. For more information about ARVA, visit arva.k12.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190509005558/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 09, 2019] Klaytn, the First Blockchain Project with Millions of Prospective Users, Comes to New York for Consensus 2019 Jason Han , the Founder and CEO of Ground X, heading the development of Klaytn, to speak at Consensus 2019 on May 13th Klaytn mainnet set to launch in 2Q after the successful deployment of both private and public testnets over the course of past 6 months Klaytn plans to set sail for a new funding round SEOUL, South Korea, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Klaytn, the global public blockchain project of the leading mobile platform in Korea, Kakao, is making its New York debut through CoinDesk's 5th annual blockchain technology summit, Consensus 2019 at New York Hilton Midtown Manhattan Hotel on Monday, May 13th. Klaytn raises $90 million in seed funding to drive the mainstream adoption of blockchain Klaytn successfully closed its exclusive seed round of funding with $90 million in March. The round was participated by numerous well-respected venture capitals including IDG China, whose investment includes Ripple in 2013, along with Peter-Thiel backed Crescendo Equity Partners, and TransLink Capital. Despite the crypto bear market with the fall of bitcoin prices and prevalent lay-offs among crypto companies, still ongoing, Klaytn is already on its first round of funding. Klaytn has also successfully attracted key advisory partners who wield significant influence in their respective regions globally. Widus, a tech-focused advisory with its offices in Hong Kong, Singapore, Seoul, and Silicon Valley, provides financial strategy and legal consultation along with potential partner recruitment for Klaytn with leading firms in both technology and business sectors around the U.S., Hong Kong, Singapore, and Indonesia. Hashed, Korea's most powerful blockchain accelerator and community builder, is another partner that supports Klaytn in mapping out its token economy ad community building with its network of global top venture capitals and crypto-focused partners. Ledger Capital, a blockchain advisory whose team members hail from Warburg Pincus and NEA (New Enterprise Associates), supports Klaytn in expanding its ecosystem with global unicorn startups and enterprises that wield significant influence across Asia. Klaytn, an enterprise-grade, service-centric platform that brings user-friendly blockchain experience to millions Klaytn combines the best features of both public blockchains - decentralized data & control, distributed governance - and private blockchains - low latency, high scalability - via an efficient 'hybrid' design. Further, Klaytn is secured by participation from numerous highly-reputable brands around the globe, working together to create a reliable business platform. With a mission to trigger the mass adoption of blockchain experiences for millions of users across the world, Klaytn focuses on empowering businesses and entrepreneurs to offer BApps (Blockchain Applications) with responsiveness, robustness, and usability on par with those based on legacy technologies as to remove all adoption hurdles. After completing the trial run of the private testnet 'Aspen,' which was exclusively used by the partners for the past seven months since last October, Klaytn released the public testnet 'Baobab' on March 29th. In addition to accomplishing over 3,000 TPS throughput and 1-second block latency, Klaytn has also featured new functions and developer tools that enhance security and usability as well as offer the highest performance and flexible scalability. Any service providers or developers interested in using Baobab can visit the official Klaytn homepage at www.klaytn.com . The Klaytn mainnet is set to launch by the end of June this year. Klaytn makes its New York debut at Consensus 2019 Jason Han, the CEO of Ground X, heading the development and operation of the Klaytn platform, will be delivering a speech at Consensus 2019 on Monday, May 13th at 16:00. He plans to introduce and discuss how Klaytn plans to leverage its Kakao-based 50 million-strong user base to drive mass adoption of blockchain. Jason commented, "Klaytn enables businesses and entrepreneurs today to verify Klaytn as a stable platform with which they can develop blockchain services, and most importantly capture value using blockchain technology." He will also speak on Klaytn's business and technology in depth at a separate session for journalists and interested officials on the 14th. Klaytn also plans to hold a booth exhibition from May 13th to 15th at NY Hilton Midtown Manhattan Hotel where participants can visit to experience a variety of interactive activities including onsite airdrop event. [About Klaytn] Klaytn is a public blockchain platform of the leading South Korean mobile platform, Kakao. Dedicated to validating the value and utility of blockchain technology by providing a blockchain service for mass adoption, Klaytn provides an intuitive development environment and friendly user experience. Klaytn seeks to continue advancing the platform to offer blockchain services for millions of users. https://klaytn.com https://medium.com/klaytn https://twitter.com/klaytn_official View original content to download multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/klaytn-the-first-blockchain-project-with-millions-of-prospective-users-comes-to-new-york-for-consensus-2019-300847207.html SOURCE Klaytn [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] Morgan Properties Invites Community to Second Company-Wide Event in Partnership with Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation Morgan Properties, the nation's 19th largest apartment owner and operator, announced today it will host lemonade stands to support Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation (ALSF) on May 14 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at each of its 167 apartment communities nationwide. This will be Morgan Properties' second consecutive year partnering with the foundation to raise money for childhood cancer research through its Caring. Sharing. Giving charitable initiative. In addition to all funds raised at the individual stands, Morgan Properties will contribute a corporate donation to further support ALSF's efforts. Last year, Morgan Properties raised $18,314 across its apartment communities for ALSF and hopes to exceed that number this year. Three of Morgan Properties' apartment communities including its corporate headquarters will be joined by local radio stations broadcasting live on-site and offering exciting giveaways such as concert tickets to attendees. Jared of WIOQ 102.1 (Q102 Philly) will be at Kingswood Apartments & Townhomes in King of Prussia, PA; Chris and the Crew of WPST 94.5 FM (94.5FM) will be at Roberts Mill Apartments & Townhomes in Maple Shade, NJ; and DJ Quicksilva of WERQ 92.3 (92Q Jams FM) will be at Chesapeake Glen Apartment Homes in Glen Burnie, MD. Additional special guest appearances include Poe of the Baltimore Ravens at Chesapeake Glen and Monty the Fox of the King of Prussia District at Kingswood, who will also bring the cooper car. Comcast (News - Alert) will also be on-site at Kingswood offering prize giveaways. "At Morgan Properties, giving back is a trait that is deeply rooted within our company culture," said Jason Morgan (News - Alert), Principal at Morgan Properties. "As a family-run business, we are committed to touching the lives of the many residents and employees we call family and supporting organizations in the communities where we operate. We're thrilled to partner yet again with an inspiring organization like Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation to raise money for childhood cancer research and look forward to seeing residents and community members in attendance at each of the events." Local ALSF Heroes will be in attendance at Kingswood, Roberts Mill, and Chesapeake Glen to share their cancer survivor stories. "At Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation (ALSF), we are incredibly grateful for the spirit and hard work of dedicated partners like Morgan Properties who volunteer to host lemonade stands that help us get closer to a cure for childhood cancer," said Liz Scott, Alex's mom and Co-Executive Director of ALSF. "We truly appreciate companies like Morgan Properties that care about children with cancer, they make the difference in the fight for so many families." Morgan Properties' participating apartment communities are located in 11 states: Pennsylvania, Maryland, New Jersey, Tennessee, New York, Delaware, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Ohio, and Nebraska. To find a lemonade stand near you, visit www.morgan-properties.com/our-communities. A rain date is scheduled for May 15. About Morgan Properties Established in 1985 by Mitchell Morgan, Morgan Properties is a national real estate investment and management company headquartered in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania. Morgan Properties and its affiliate, Morgan Properties JV own and manage a multifamily portfolio comprised of 167 apartment communities and over 50,000 units located in 11 states, primarily in the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast Region. Morgan Properties is currently the 19th largest apartment owner in the country. The Company prides itself on its quick decision-making ability, strong capital relationships and operational expertise. Learn more at www.morganproperties.com. About Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation (ALSF) emerged from the front yard lemonade stand of 4-year-old Alexandra "Alex" Scott, who was fighting cancer and wanted to raise money to find cures for all children with cancer. Her spirit and determination inspired others to support her cause, and when she passed away at the age of 8, she had raised $1 million. Since then, the Foundation bearing her name has evolved into a national fundraising movement. Today, ALSF is one of the leading funders of pediatric cancer research in the U.S. and Canada raising more than $150 million so far, funding nearly 1,000 research projects and providing programs to families affected by childhood cancer. For more information, visit AlexsLemonade.org. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190509005169/en/ [May 09, 2019] Randstad North America's chief human resources officer, Jim Link, to speak at 2019 Future Workplace Network Member Meeting ATLANTA, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Who Jim Link, chief human resources officer, Randstad North America. What Jim Link will speak at the 2019 Future Workplace Network Member Meeting in Chicago, Illinois hosted by The Kraft Heinz Company. In his session, "Future Workplace Network Research: The Impact of Technology on the Employee Experience," Link will share insights from a new study that assesses how employees and employers use technology in the workplace. Surveying over 1,200 U.S. human resources leaders, line managers and employees, Link will share data points relating to the influence of technology on sourcing, screening and onboarding through engagement, retention and offboarding. When Thursday, May 16, 2019 at 3:15 p.m. to 3:45 p.m. CDT. Where Hyatt Regency Chicago 151 E Wacker Drive Chicago, IL 60601 Details This session will take an in-depth look at Randstad's report, discussing how technology is currently influencing the work experience for both employees and HR leaders alike. Survey results illustrate how managers and employees view technology in the hiring process, the positive and negative effects it's having on the workplace, as well as its new ole in shaping both corporate culture and the overall employee experience. Conference attendees will learn how to: understand the distinct generational differences in technology habits among their workforce acknowledge and consider an employee's digital preferences enhance the employer-to-employee relationship by identifying what technologies best serve the employee experience encourage healthy digital habits and provide protocols around technology and work-life fluidity utilize technology in a way that nurtures long-term employee relationships Human resources, talent acquisition and other managerial and above professionals are encouraged to attend. Visit Future Workplace for more information. About FutureWorkplace Future Workplace is an HR Advisory and Research firm preparing leaders for what's next in the future workforce and workplace. Future Workplace works with heads of talent acquisition, talent management, human resources, corporate learning, and diversity to prepare them for the disruptions impacting recruitment, employee development, and engagement. Future Workplace is the host of the Future Workplace Network, an Executive Council that includes heads of Human Resources, Corporate Learning, and Talent Management, who come together to discuss, debate and share "next" practices impacting the workplace and workforce of the future. For more information, please visit http://www.futureworkplace.com. About Randstad Randstad North America, Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Randstad N.V., a 23.8 billion global provider of flexible work and human resources services. As a trusted human partner in the technology-driven world of talent, we combine the expertise and passion of our employees with some of the most innovative HR technologies on the market today to advance the careers and business success of our candidates and clients. Randstad's North American operations comprise 5,700+ associates and a deployed workforce of more than 100,000 in the U.S. and Canada. In addition to staffing and recruitment, Randstad offers outsourcing, consulting and workforce management solutions for generalist and specialist disciplines, including technology, engineering, finance and accounting, clinical and non-clinical healthcare, human resources, legal, life sciences, manufacturing and logistics, office and administration and sales and marketing. Global concepts available to North American client companies include RPO, MSP, integrated talent solutions, payrolling and independent contractor management and career transition services. Learn more at www.randstadusa.com or www.randstad.ca. View original content to download multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/randstad-north-americas-chief-human-resources-officer-jim-link-to-speak-at-2019-future-workplace-network-member-meeting-300846850.html SOURCE Randstad US [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 09, 2019] For What's Next in Today's Digital Landscape, Look to Tech-Savvy Asian Americans--Innovators of the Path to Purchase NEW YORK, May 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Asian Americans hold a unique and powerful position as both financial drivers and influencers in today's digitally powered path to purchase. Nielsen's newly published Diverse Intelligence Series consumer report, Informed Influencers and Powerful Purchasers: The Asian American Consumer Journey , examines Asian Americans' dynamic role in today's digitally and socially driven retail economy. With internet access available in 99% of Asian American households (versus 93% of the total U.S. population), tech-savvy Asian Americans are not only making online purchases at a 34% higher rate, but are also voicing their opinions and posting influential reviews at a market-changing pace. For example, 24% more Asian Americans agree that rating and reviewing is an important reason for social media. Featuring all-new research, data and insights, this year's reportthe seventh in Nielsen's Diverse Intelligence Series on Asian Americanstraces the non-linear sequence of events that guide this affluent and fast-growing segment, which surpassed $1 trillion in buying power in 2018, to make purchases. Frequently, Asian Americans' consumer journeys begin with a recommendation or review from a friend or family member. In fact, Asian Americans are 50% more likely to use the internet/apps for consumer reviews. Additionally, Asian Americans are adept users of emerging technology, and are much more likely to view content via digital platforms like subscription video on-demand (SVOD) and to make online purchases. Companies looking to drive growth with Asian American consumers must have a robust digital outreach strategy that also speaks to the diverse cultural experiences of these consumers that, in tandem, drive their unique consumer journeys. Further, companies seeking growth of any kind within a rapidly diversifying U.S. population can only reach their goals by reaching multicultural consumers, who constitute some of the fastest-growing demographic groups in the U.S. "The Asian American path to purchase is a unique journey that's informed by a rich cultural heritage as well as the latest advancements in technology," stated Mariko Carpenter, Nielsen's Vice President of Strategic Alliances. "Globally and digitally connected Asian Americans are playing integral roles, both as consumers and influencers, in shaping the next generation of retail and e-commerce trends in the U.S. and beyond. Brands interested in 'what's next' need to take a serious look at this burgeoning and predictive segment." For Asian Americans, the consumer journey is a circular model that begins with scouring product reviews during the discovery phase and providing feedback after the purchase. Due to Asian Americans' proclivity for reviewing the products they purchase, a favorable experience can turn these consumers into brand loyalists with the power to influence their friends, families and entire consumer groups and product categories. This influence can be seen in the fact that products like sushi, Asian dumpling appetizers and naan bread have experienced at least 11% revenue growth overthe past three years alone. The Asian American path to purchase is affected by a myriad of influences that are heavily rooted in cultural traditions as well as their cross-cultural identity. Understanding these drivers of behavior is essential for marketers to exercise empathy and establish real connections with Asian American consumers. Key insights featured in the report include: The Asian American Path to Purchase Begins with Family and Friends 53% of Asian Americans agree with the statement "My spouse has a significant impact on the brands I choose" while 42% cite the influence of their children. 29% of Asian Americans agree with "I prefer to buy things my friends or neighbors would approve of" (over-indexing by 15%). Asian Americans Prefer to Consume Content Digitally 97% of Asian American households have a smartphone, over-indexing against the total population by 6%, and 89% have a computer, over-indexing by 13%. The reach of social networking on a computer, and video on a computer are where Asian Americans over-index most against the total population. Overall, the reach of internet-connected devices is 22% higher among Asian Americanswith video on a computer, social networking on a computer, and internet on a computer over-indexing by 21%, 24% and 15%, respectively. Social Media's Role in the Interactive Consumer Journey Asian Americans exceed the total population in their use of social media for product research and engagement. Twenty-six percent of Asian Americans agree that finding out about products and services is an important reason for using social media (over-indexing by 14%). Asian Americans agree that gaining access to VIP or members-only events is an important reason to use social media (14%, over-indexing by 31%). Asian Americans Are Leaders in Online Shopping 87% of Asian Americans have made an online purchase in the last 12 months (over-indexing by 22%). Online grocery shopping is gaining acceptance faster with Asian Americans than the total population. In the last 12 months, 23% of Asian Americans bought groceries online (over-indexing by 66%). Asian Americans As Shopping Influencers 32% of Asian Americans agree that they "like to share my opinions about products and services by posting reviews and ratings online." 71% of Asian Americans recommend food products, 68% recommend automobiles and 43% are eager to share their technology opinions (over-indexing the general population by 29%). "Nielsen has been a pioneer in evangelizing the growth potential for brands that are able to connect authentically with Asian American consumers," said Frank Washington, CEO of Crossings TV and member of Nielsen's Asian Pacific American Advisory Council. "In today's social media- and technology-driven communications and retail landscape, this segment is vital to any brand's holistic marketing and growth strategies." For more details and insights, download Informed Influencers and Powerful Purchasers: The Asian American Consumer Journey . Please visit http://nielsen.com/asianamericans to learn more. Join the discussion on Facebook ( Nielsen Community ) and follow us on Twitter ( @NielsenKnows ). ABOUT THE NIELSEN DIVERSE INTELLIGENCE SERIES In 2011, Nielsen launched the Diverse Intelligence Series, a robust portfolio of comprehensive reports that focus solely on diverse consumers' unique consumption and purchasing habits. The series has become an industry resource to help brands better understand and reach ethnic customers. ABOUT NIELSEN Nielsen Holdings plc (NYSE: NLSN) is a global measurement and data analytics company that provides the most complete and trusted view available of consumers and markets worldwide. Our approach marries proprietary Nielsen data with other data sources to help clients around the world understand what's happening now, what's happening next, and how to best act on this knowledge. For more than 90 years Nielsen has provided data and analytics based on scientific rigor and innovation, continually developing new ways to answer the most important questions facing the media, advertising, retail and fast-moving consumer goods industries. An S&P 500 company, Nielsen has operations in over 100 countries, covering more than 90% of the world's population. For more information, visit www.nielsen.com . CONTACTS: Mia Scott-Aime, Nielsen, [email protected], (646) 654-5459 Melinda Chu, IW Group, [email protected], (646) 979-1969 View original content:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/for-whats-next-in-todays-digital-landscape-look-to-tech-savvy-asian-americans--innovators-of-the-path-to-purchase-300846847.html SOURCE Nielsen [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 09, 2019] MEDIA ADVISORY: Impressive Lineup of Keynote Speakers for the 2019 IEEE Broadcast Symposium; Michelle Munson, Co-Founder and CEO of Eluvio and Mark Schubin, Multiple-Emmy-Award-Winning SMPTE Fellow IEEE (News - Alert) Broadcast Technology Society: This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190509005116/en/ Michelle Munson (Photo: Business Wire) WHAT: This year the 2019 IEEE Broadcast Symposium has an impressive lineup of Keynote Speakers participating in the event. Michelle Munson, co-founder and CEO of Eluvio will be speaking on Tuesday, October 1 and Mark Schubin, Multiple-Emmy-award-winning SMPTE Fellow will keynote on Wednesday, October 2. Michelle Munson is the co-founder and CEO of Eluvio, a new Berkeley-based start-up creating new software technologies for a content-centric Internet focused on scalability, content protection, and native commerce. She previously founded East Bay software company Aspera in 2004 and led the company as CEO until May 2017, including through acquisition by IBM (News - Alert) in 2014. She and co-founder Serban Simu created the Aspera FASP transport technology, an Emmy-award winning technology used throughout the digital media supply chain for high-speed low cost secure digital content transport, replacing satellite and traditional tape based delivery technologies. Michelle holds several patents and is a frequent speaker in the areas of content networking, machine learning, block chain and cloud infrastructure. She was the 2016 Charles Swartz awardee and is a SMPTE Fellow. Michelle has dual B.Sc. degrees in Electrical Engineering and in Physics from Kansas State University and was a Goldwater Scholar for achievement in Science and Mathematics, and later a Fulbright Scholar at Cambridge University where she received a postgraduate Diploma in Computer Science. In 2016 she was named the IABM Woman Entrepreneur of the Year and TV NewsCheck Woman of the Year, and she was named one of the Most Influential Women in Business by the SF Business Times in 2017. She was the 2006 KSU College of Engineering Alumni Fellow (the youngest recipient ever), and is an active trustee for the National 4-H Council and 2017 4-H Luminary for her leadershipwith youth. Multiple-Emmy-award-winning SMPTE Fellow Mark Schubin has been working in television since 1967, writing about it since 1972, and chairing the HPA Tech Retreat program since 1998. He has shot for the Rolling Stones, lit Luciano Pavarotti, mixed Stevie Wonder, hooked up the TV in Eric Clapton's bedroom, and performed forensic analysis for the Woody Allen/Mia Farrow child-custody battle. He worked on Japan's first regularly scheduled HDTV broadcast, Kazakhstan's first news network, and Hong Kong's first cable-TV system. He has also worked on standards ranging from the VU meter to digitally compressed video transmission to the national TV system of Barbados. His clients range from the Metropolitan Opera to Sesame Street, MTV, The News Hour, the AFL-CIO, the U.S. Congress, and the World Book Encyclopedia. His writing has been translated into French, Japanese, Russian, and Spanish. His blog, http://www.schubincafe.com, is archived by the Library of Congress. Marvin Kitman, writing for The Los Angeles Times syndicate, called him "a leading thinker." In the acknowledgements to his book Fast Forward: Hollywood, the Japanese, and the VCR Wars, James Lardner of The New Yorker wrote of Schubin that "he has the spectacularly rare ability to make technical matters clear to a nontechnical person." Graham Binns of London's Rediffusion Group said in the European publication Intermedia (News - Alert), "He has a complete mastery of the technical background to video. He rattles off data and ideas with fluency and with wit." Register at https://bts.ieee.org/broadcastsymposium/registration.html WHERE: Marriott Hartford Downtown, 200 Columbus Blvd., Hartford, CT WHEN: Tuesday, October 1st thru Thursday, October 3rd ABOUT BTS: The IEEE Broadcast Technology Society (BTS) is a membership organization open to everyone in the broadcast industry and allied fields. The BTS mission is to serve the needs of its members; to enhance their professional knowledge by keeping them informed of the latest research results and industry trends, and provide enriching educational and networking opportunities. Follow IEEE BTS: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IEEEBTSociety Twitter (News - Alert): https://twitter.com/IEEEBTSociety LinkedIn (News - Alert): http://www.linkedin.com/groups/IEEE-Broadcast-Technology-Society-IEEE-4937489 TWEET THIS: Register Now to see Michelle Munson and Mark Schubin as a Keynote Speakers @BTSSymposium October 1-3 in Hartford, CT View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190509005116/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 09, 2019] Monomoy Capital Partners Acquires Kauffman Engineering Monomoy Capital Partners is a private investment firm with $1.5 billion in committed capital in a family of investment funds. We make investments in the debt and equity of middle market businesses that can benefit from operational and financial improvement. Monomoy announced today that it has successfully completed the acquisition of Kauffman Engineering, Inc. ("Kauffman"). Terms of the transaction were not disclosed. Kauffman was founded in 1973 and is headquartered in Lebanon, Indiana. Kauffman is a market leading manufacturer of highly-engineered wire harnesses and cable assemblies for electrical systems across the HVAC, commercial equipment, specialty vehicle, lawn care, marine, medical and other industrial markets. Kauffman's design and engineering capabilities allow the company to provide complex electrical connector products for mid-to-low volume and high mix customer programs. The business operates a network of 22 facilities across the United States and Mexico. "We are excited to partner with Mike Buis and the Kauffman team," said Jaime Forsyth, Managing Director of Monomoy. "Kauffman is a proven, highly-regarded supplier to a diverse set of industrial manufacturers. Kauffman is also well-positioned to grow over the next several years with its nation-wide footprint. The Monomoy operating team is excited to collaborate with Kauffman to drive long-term value for all of its stakeholders." "The Kauffman team looks forward to working with Monomoy, whose resources and capabilities will allow us to advance our strategic and operational initiatives," said Mike Buis, Chief Executive Officer of Kauffman. "Monomoy's focus on operational excellence ill guide our continued investment in the people, systems, and manufacturing operations that allow us to deliver quality products to our customers." "We are pleased to add Kauffman to our portfolio of leading industrial businesses," said Justin Hillenbrand, Monomoy Co-CEO and Partner. "Kauffman has demonstrated an ability to grow throughout its history and has great potential for future growth in its marketplace." Monomoy acquired Kauffman Engineering through its third fund vehicle, Monomoy Capital Partners III, L.P. Midcap Financial Services, LLC provided acquisition financing for the transaction, Baker & McKenzie LLP provided Monomoy with legal counsel in the transaction, and Alvarez & Marsal, LLC completed financial, accounting and IT diligence for Monomoy. KPMG Corporate Finance LLC acted as the exclusive financial advisor to Kauffman Engineering in the sale and Faegre Baker Daniels LLP provided legal counsel. About Monomoy Capital Partners Monomoy Capital Partners is a private equity firm with $1.5 billion in committed capital that invests in middle-market businesses in the manufacturing, industrial, distribution and consumer products sectors. The firm invests in the both the equity and debt of middle-market businesses that can benefit from operational and financial improvement. Monomoy designs and executes a customized value creation plan for each acquisition that seeks to generate significant cash flow and improve earnings within 12 to 18 months of an investment. Over the past 14 years, Monomoy has closed over 50 middle-market acquisitions. To learn more about Monomoy and its portfolio companies, please visit the firm's website at www.mcpfunds.com. About Kauffman Engineering Kauffman Engineering, Inc. is a manufacturer of custom specified, industrial grade wire harnesses, cable assemblies and related products for electrical system needs in HVAC, commercial equipment, specialty vehicle, lawn care, marine, and other industrial end markets. Kauffman serves high-mix/low-volume and high-mix/medium-volume customer programs and manufactures approximately 30,000 unique and highly-engineered connector parts. The Company is headquartered in Lebanon, Indiana and has a network of 15 locations across the United States and Mexico. To learn more about Kauffman Engineering, please visit the Kauffman Engineering website at www.kewire.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190509005557/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] Fund Statistics Now Available for Dreyfus Closed-End Funds Dreyfus High Yield Strategies Fund (NYSE: DHF), Dreyfus Municipal Bond Infrastructure Fund, Inc. (NYSE: DMB), Dreyfus Municipal Income, Inc. (NYSE American: DMF), Dreyfus Strategic Municipal Bond Fund, Inc. (NYSE: DSM (News - Alert)) and Dreyfus Strategic Municipals, Inc. (NYSE: LEO) each announced that certain fund statistics, as of March 31, 2019, are now available. The information can be found in the Closed-End Funds section of im.bnymellon.com and can be accessed at: https://im.bnymellon.com/us/en/intermediary/products/closed-end-funds.jsp. To order a hard copy of this information, call 1-800-334-6899. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190509005600/en/